72 HOURS September 4, 2025

SEPTEMBER

4

‘LOVING JOHN’

Documentary celebrates the life and legacy of beloved local runner

IN MEMORY OF JOHN GODINET

What began as a simple story about Frederick’s running community rallying around John Godinet’s ALS diagnosis evolved into something far more profound over four years of filming. Director Robert Rooy discovered that documenting one man’s journey wasn’t just about illness — it was about the ripple effects of genuine human connection. “Loving John” makes its Maryland premiere on Sept. 6 at Dance Unlimited, offering audiences a chance to witness how a fitness instructor’s infectious enthusiasm created bonds that outlasted his own life. For those who knew him, it’s a reunion; for everyone else, it’s a masterclass in what community actually means.

TRANSIT TACKLES THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Frederick County just solved a problem most people didn’t realize existed: getting to Cunningham Falls State Park without a car. The pilot bus service, which will run through Sept. 20, is a quiet revolution in outdoor access. While Maryland’s largest cascading waterfall has always drawn crowds, the new Emmitsburg/ Thurmont Shuttle stops make it reachable for residents who rely on public transit. Three weekday trips and two Saturday runs might seem modest, but they signal a broader shift toward connecting natural spaces with urban transportation networks. Ready to try it out?

THE MET LITERALLY RAISES THE ROOF

After years of performing improv shows amid children’s theater set pieces, Frederick’s comedy scene is getting the venue it deserves. The Maryland Ensemble Theatre’s new Key Stage transforms the historic FSK Hotel ballroom into an 80-seat comedy cabaret, complete with ornate ceiling details that haven’t hosted public events since 1975. The Fall Comedy Extravaganza on Sept. 5 and 6 marks the culmination of a decade-long evolution that’s seen MET’s comedy program grow from occasional late-night shows to five distinct improv troupes. Managing Director Melynda Burdette Wintrol sees the space serving a broader need in Frederick’s arts ecosystem, where finding affordable performance venues has long frustrated emerging artists. The grand opening reception at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 5 is free and open to the public, though the comedy shows require separate tickets.

RUSH TRIBUTE FOUNDER RETURNS TO MARYLAND ROOTS

Billy Alexander’s journey from Smithsburg teenager discovering Rush’s “2112” in a sister’s boyfriend’s car to leading the tribute band YYNOT reads like a classic rock origin story, complete with the homecoming performance every musician dreams of. After a decade of performing Rush covers and original Rush-inspired compositions across the country, Alexander brings YYNOT to the Weinberg Center Sept. 6 for their first-ever Maryland show. The band’s concept goes beyond typical tribute territory, creating original music that channels Rush’s progressive rock spirit rather than simply recreating it.

THEATER GOES SITE-SPECIFIC AT CATOCTIN FURNACE

Most historical sites tell their stories through plaques and guided tours. Catoctin Furnace is taking a different approach Sept. 11-14, turning the entire ironworks complex into a stage for “Iron Will,” an original play about the site’s crucial role supplying the Continental Army before Yorktown. Audiences will move between multiple locations as the story unfolds, experiencing scenes where they actually happened. Cowriter and director Reiner Prochaska has assembled professional actors from as far as London’s Globe Theatre to bring 1780s characters to life, with particular attention to the enslaved African Americans whose contributions have been historically erased. The format builds on the success of the site’s popular “Spirits of the Furnace” Halloween tradition but with a Revolutionary War setting.

Red Horse Steakhouse maintains legacy while changing with the times

As a mainstay of the Frederick dining scene since 1968, the Red Horse Steakhouse has always been a go-to spot for a good steak.

They still sell their fair share of tenderloin, ribeyes and prime ribs, said general manager Don Cline, who has been at the restaurant for 31 years.

One week a month, they offer a 32-ounce bone-in ribeye.

But the Frederick restaurant scene has changed in recent years to become more competitive, Cline said, so the steakhouse has diversified its menu. It now offers a wider variety of choices and some less-expensive items. Along with their traditional steak and seafood items, they offer a variety of sandwiches, chicken, pasta, duck and escargot.

Some of the most popular newer dishes include a black cherry duck breast, apricot-glazed scallops, and a Tuscan surf and turf with steak tips and shrimp.

Main dishes come with a variety of sides that include garlic mashed potatoes, jasmine rice, coleslaw, steamed vegetables, hand-cut fries and grilled asparagus.

The restaurant’s previous owner tried to make the establishment a destination for special occasions, Cline said.

“We’ve tried to dispel that a little bit,” he said as he mixed drinks at the bar on a recent Friday evening (on that note, vodka drinks are always popular, and a selection of bourbons and other whiskies are popular with younger diners, he said).

But even with all the menu additions, the most popular is an oldfashioned throwback: an 8-ounce hand-cut filet, grilled over an open flame.

“Still the No. 1-selling dinner is filet mignon — by far.”

— Ryan Marshall

Don Cline, the general manager at Red Horse Restaurant, poses at the restaurant on Aug. 14.

RED HORSE STEAKHOUSE

996 W. Patrick St., Frederick 301-663-3030

redhorserestaurant.com

Facebook: facebook.com/RedHorseRestaurant

Instagram: @redhorsesteakhouse

X: @RedHorseUsa

Hours: 3 to 9 p.m. daily.

Price: Appetizers range from $8 for potato skins with cheese, bacon and a sour cream drizzle to $23 for miniature crab cakes with remoulade sauce. Burgers and sandwiches range from $13-$23. Entrees run from $23-$45 and steaks from $28-$49.

General Manager Don Cline recommends: The Chicken Parmesan.

Staff photos by Katina Zentz

General Manager

Don Cline recommends: The Chicken Parmesan.

BY IAN CHEN

Special to The News-Post

Billy Alexander returns to Maryland to perform at the Weinberg Center

When musician Billy Alexander first heard the band Rush’s album “2112” as a 10-year-old in late-1970s Maryland, he knew his tennis-racket air guitar days were over. Nearly five decades later, that life-changing moment has transformed into YYNOT, a Rush tribute band that performs both Rush covers and original Rush-inspired songs.

Now, after a decade of performing, Alexander is bringing his musical journey full circle with the band’s first-ever performance in his home state at the Weinberg Center in Frederick on Sept. 6.

Alexander was born in Virginia but spent most of his childhood in Smithsburg, about a 30-minute drive from Frederick. He started learning guitar at age 10 after hearing “2112” by Rush played in his sister’s boyfriend’s car.

“That’s really when it started, and then I never looked back,” he said. “I’ve been serious about it from the age of 10 until now.”

Alexander took guitar lessons in Hagerstown and eventually became proficient enough to be hired as a teacher himself. He also learned how to play bass and the keyboard. Then, during his freshman year at Smithsburg High School, Alexander became friends with Steve Coleman and Steve Royer, two juniors who played in the school jazz band. The three formed a band and played Rush covers in the music room after school, occasionally even performing at assemblies and after-school events.

After high school, Alexander continued playing music. He produced records, worked as a sound engineer, wrote songs and played guitar for other artists, as well as bands of his own. Throughout it all, he continued to listen to the musical heroes of his childhood — Rush, Tom Petty, Led Zeppelin among them.

In 2015, he attended the second-tolast Rush concert before the band retired.

“I love everything about them. Their sound, their heavy rock energy, their musicianship, their depth and their lyrics,” he said. “It ticks all those boxes that you love about a hard rock band.”

Afterwards, he got the idea to write and compose a Rush-inspired song, and he titled it “YYNOT,” in reference to the Rush song “YYZ.” This style of incorporating the Rush spirit into original compositions later turned into the concept for his

tribute band YYNOT.

The other founding member of YYNOT was Tim Starace. Starace had heard the song “YYNOT” on Facebook, and they began a conversation online. Alexander admired his bass playing, and they started working together. Eventually, they found a vocalist and drummer and began playing the songs live and recording new ones in the studio.

Alexander is still the one who heads most of the original music outside of

their Rush covers, and he’s the guitarist, songwriter, producer and sound engineer on YYNOT’s albums. “But as far as playing live and doing the Rush material, it’s everybody,” he said. “Everybody kicks in, learns the stuff and does their homework, and then we bang it out as a band, live.”

Performing live is one of Alexander’s favorite parts of being in a band.

“You’re feeding off the energy of the audience when they’re excited, and then

IF YOU GO

YYNOT — A Tribute to RUSH will perform at 8 p.m. Sept. 6 at the Weinberg Center for the Arts in Frederick. Tickets start at $25.50 and are available at weinbergcenter.org, by calling the box office at 301-600-2828, or in person at the Weinberg Center, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick.

that, in turn, with your bandmates, creates this cycle of really cool energy and magic that you can’t get anywhere else,” he said. “Playing live is spontaneous, and it’s a right-now thing. … No performance is ever going to be the same because it happened and it’s over.”

In his playing, Alexander says he tries to channel the same energetic Rush spirit that changed his life at his first-ever concert when he was 11.

“I’ll never forget it. It was life-changing. August 22, 1979,” he said. “They were such heroes to me. … Actually seeing them come alive off of the back of the album cover, to actually be in the actual building as they’re playing, was just incredible.”

YYNOT has recorded three albums. Alexander has also recently released a solo album called “Rock and Roll Diary,” a fusion of all the classic rock bands that inspired him from a young age. It is new, original music, but Alexander intentionally gave it a feel that sounded more nostalgic and familiar to people, he said.

One of his favorite songs, “Follow the River,” appears on that album. The lyrics evoke his childhood in Maryland, and Alexander even made a music video for it that includes video clips of his upbringing here.

At the upcoming concert at the Weinberg Center, Alexander says fans can expect their usual two hours of rock and high energy.

“We bring the energy and the smiles and the joy and the musicianship that we’re known for,” he said. “I have family and friends that I never get to see that I’ll be able to perform in front of, so coming back all these years later is going to be a lot of fun.”

Ian Chen is a high schooler at Richard Montgomery who loves creative writing and journalism. In his free time, he enjoys solving crosswords and listening to music.

Cynthia Leon Photography

Billy Alexander will return home to Maryland to perform on the Weinberg stage.

9 moments that created one of America’s most important theaters

BY PETER MARKS

The Washington Post

When the curtain rose on Arena Stage in Washington, D.C., in 1950, it was as if a spotlight was being switched on for live theater across America. Under the stewardship of Arena’s founding artistic director Zelda Fichandler, a 247-seat performance space in a former movie and burlesque house, the Hippodrome, on a then-rundown stretch of K Street NW near Mount Vernon Square, would prefigure an astonishing new era for plays and musicals in this country.

In tandem with a handful of other visionaries in a few select cities — Dallas, for example, was another early hotbed — Fichandler set in motion what would become known as the regional theater movement. Her singular drive and remarkable artistry was of a kind that birthed slews of theaters and inspired generations of playwrights, designers and actors.

“You hold in your hands an origin story for the American theater,” theater historian Todd London wrote in a preface to a recent collection of Fichandler’s own writings, “The Long Revolution.” This week, 75 years into that story, Arena marks an extraordinary anniversary — not one denoting age as much as timeless relevance. What follows are the major moments in its evolution into a storied company.

•••

A new kind of ‘flying machine’ (1950)

As a child, Zelda moved from Boston to Washington, where she performed in plays. Later at George Washington University, she wrote a master’s thesis on the performing of Shakespeare in the Soviet Union.

She, her husband, Tom, and theater professor Edward Mangum raised $15,000 to create a for-profit corporation, later reorganized as a nonprofit. On Aug. 16, 1950, Arena came into being with a production of Oliver Goldsmith’s 1773 comedy, “She Stoops to Conquer.”

“After World War II,” Fichandler wrote in an essay, “I was trying to get off the ground a flying machine of my own — a theater institution of a certain kind for which there had been no American models.” Before then in the United States, theater existed principally as a Broadway and touring phenomenon.

“It was founded in the belief,” she

The Arena Stage at 1101 Sixth Street SW is part of the new look of the Washington, D.C., waterfront area.

wrote about Arena, “that if dramahungry playgoers outside of the ten blocks of Broadway are to have a living stage, they must create it for themselves. Arena Stage was financed by Washingtonians — students, teachers, lawyers, doctors, scientists, government workers, housewives — who love theater and who want to see it flourish in the city in which they work and live.” •••

The

first stages of its own (1961, 1971)

On a campus in Southwest Washington, Arena built two theaters, the in-the-round flagship space (opened in 1961, later named the

The cast of the 2010 Arena Stage production of “Oklahoma!”

Fichandler Stage), and the smaller proscenium venue (the Kreeger, opened in 1971). It was on those stages that Fichandler would implement her vision, employing, for example, a permanent company of salaried actors. That effort would set in motion a plan to create one of the first fully racially integrated American theater companies.

James Earl Jones sparks a breakthrough (1967)

The electrifying play by Howard Sackler that premiered at Arena in December 1967 propelled the company to a whole new level of renown. Based on the story of Black prizefighter Jack Jefferson, “The Great White Hope” would make stars

Arena Stage

Zelda Fichandler in front of the company’s first venue in 1950.

Michael S. Williamson/The Washington Post

Carol Rosegg/Arena Stage

of its leading actors, Jones and Jane Alexander — and establish Arena as an important generator of new work. The play, which had an interracial couple as its central characters, was controversial at the time for its direct assault on the injustices perpetrated on Black Americans. It went on to win both the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the Tony for best play.

•••

A trip to the U.S.S.R. (1973) Arena became the first American theater company to tour the Soviet Union — reflecting a Fichandler passion for building bridges across the world. It presented “Inherit the Wind,” about the Scopes Monkey Trial, and “Our Town,” and the cast members included Robert Prosky and Dianne Wiest. The State Department-sponsored tour was deemed a breakthrough in the furthering of American “soft power.”

•••

Tony recognition (1976)

Three years later, Arena’s national credentials were stamped again, when it won the first Regional Theatre Tony Award. It was a harbinger for the growth of Washington as a regional hub of theatrical variety, through the creation of such influential local companies as Woolly Mammoth Theatre, Studio Theatre, Signature Theatre and Shakespeare Theatre Company.

•••

Rebirth under a new leader (1998-2023)

After Fichandler’s successor, Doug Wager (1991-98), artistic director Molly Smith took Arena in new directions. Reflecting a baby boomer’s taste for the golden age of Broadway, she broadened Arena’s palate by directing such classic musicals as “The Music Man,” “South Pacific” and “Damn Yankees.”

Smith also steered Arena into more overtly political lanes, producing what she deemed “power plays” on topics such as the peace talks between Anwar Sadat and Menachem Begin (“Camp David”); the constitutional battle over abortion (“Roe”) and the career of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia (“The Originalist”). (Scalia’s friend and colleague on the Court, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, was a regular presence on Arena opening nights.) Some of these plays proved provocatively bracing, while others could not escape a whiff of over-earnestness.

(See THEATERS 11)

Carroll County Arts Council announces fall events

“The Rocky Horror Picture Show” will screen at the Carroll Arts Center in Westminster, per its annual October tradition.

The Carroll County Arts Council’s fall program schedule reflects recent changes at the nonprofit organization, including a new executive director and staff.

New executive director Stephen Strosnider says he and the team and board are proud of the rich history of the Carroll County Arts Council and excited for the opportunity to bring new life to the Carroll County Arts Council with fresh programs. We welcome everyone to experience the excitement and fun of these affordable, accessible art experiences.”

The fall schedule includes an array of events, some of which are free, with no membership required to attend events or visit the Arts Council. All events are open to the public. Classes and events are added each week.

LIVE MUSIC

Sept. 13 — Common Ground Downtown Concert Series, Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira, high-energy fiddle and cello duo

Oct. 4 — Common Ground Downtown Concert Series, The Ramzi Aburedwan & Dal’Ouna Ensemble, sharing the music of Palestine.

Oct. 17 — Billy Lyve, local, Carroll County entrepreneur, community leader and hip-hop artist

Oct. 8 — Taikoza Drummers, interactive, Japanese drum and performance group, part of the, “Together in the Arts” accessibility series. Free.

MOVIES

Sept. 5 — “Growing Into Greatness: A Maryland Champion Tree Documentary.” Free.

Sept. 19 — Uproar, 1 and 7:30 p.m.

HALLOWEEN WEEK

Oct. 28 — Movie: “Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror,” 7:30 p.m. Oct. 29 — Live performance: Memory Lane Playback Theater. “Fear”, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 30 — Live Performance: D’s Magic: Tricks & Treats Magic Show, 6:30 p.m.

Oct. 31 — Movie: 50th Anniversary showing of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” 10 p.m.

The Carroll County Arts Council is located at 91 W. Main Street in Westminster. To learn more about the Carroll County Arts Council, visit carrollcountyartscouncil.org.

Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show slated for this weekend

The annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show will be held on Sept. 5, 6 and 7 at Catoctin High School, 14745 Sabillasville Road, Thurmont.

The free entry of exhibits is from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Sept. 4 and from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Sept. 5 in the gymnasium and the agriculture department area. Business and organization exhibits may be set up on Sept. 5 between 3:30 and 5 p.m.

The Community Show opens to the public at 5:30 p.m. Sept. 5, and the Opening Ceremonies Program begins at 6:30 p.m. in the auditorium with the 47th annual Community Organizations Flag Ceremony. Patriotic music will be performed by the Catoctin High School Band and the 2025-2026 Catoctin FFA Chapter Ambassador will be announced.

Admission is free and a silver offering will be received to benefit the Sabillasville Environmental School. Parking is free and provided courtesy of the Thurmont Scout Troop 270. At the Hospitality Booth inside the school’s entrance, visitors are encouraged to sign up for

door prizes from area businesses and the winners will receive their prizes in the mail. No pets or animals are allowed in the school, except for service animals.

A highlight of the annual Community Show is the Baked Goods Auction on Friday night, which will begin immediately following the program, at approximately 7:30 p.m.

At 8 p.m., the Grand Champion and Reserve Champion cakes, pies and breads will be sold, along with the Youth and Junior Department’s champion and reserve champion cakes and miscellaneous baked products.

All weekend in the auxiliary gym, the Friends of the Thurmont Regional Library will be holding their annual used book sale, John Kinnaird will have a display of area historical photographs, and the Community Show’s historical photos and memorabilia will also be on display.

In the gymnasium, there will be a display of vintage quilts and afghans, as well as the Department & Reserve Department Champions table in the gymnasium’s center. In addition, many local businesses and community organiza-

tions will have displays and exhibits throughout the school.

On Sept. 6, the show is open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Morning activities in the Ag Center include the 9 a.m. Beef, Sheep, Swine and Market Goat Fitting & Showing/Show.

The Pet Show’s registration starts at 10 a.m. in the front of the school, with the Pet Show starting at 10:30 a.m.

On both Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the petting zoo, farm animals, sow with its litter of piglets and face painting will available for everyone to enjoy.

The 1 p.m. Elower-Sicilia Productions dance show will be held in the auditorium, and the Thurmont Academy of Self Defense’s martial arts demonstrations is at 1:30 p.m. in the auxiliary gym.

Thurmont’s Kountry Kitchen Restaurant will cater and serve a Roast Turkey & Baked Ham buffet on Saturday from 3 to 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria, which benefits the Community Show. The menu includes roast turkey, baked ham, mashed

(See SHOW 11)

Courtesy photo

THE FREDERICK MOM

The Frederick Mom’s recommendations for the weekend of Sept. 5

Activities to do with the kids this weekend, courtesy of The Frederick Mom.

Fall Fun Fest

10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 5, 6, 7

Gaver Farm, 5501 Detrick Road, Mount Airy

$20/person, ages 2 and under are free

It’s apple cider slushy time! The Fall Fun Fest has begun at Gaver Farm. Open daily until Nov. 2, this family-friendly event offers over 65 attractions, including a 7-acre corn maze, furry barnyard animals, ziplines, giant slides, pedal karts, jumping pillows and more. Pick-Your-Own apples are available on Fridays from 12 to 6 p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Hayrides are free on weekends! Food stands will satisfy your cravings while there. Try the macaroni and cheese hot dog! Head to gaverfarm.com for your Fall Fun Fest tickets.

Star Party

•••

6:30 to 10 p.m. Sept. 5 ThorpeWood, 12805C Mink Farm Road, Thurmont Free

Come spend your Friday evening on the farm at Thorpewood viewing the stars, planets and the Milky Way. Their annual stargazing event will be at 7:30 p.m. and The Sprinkled Cow will be serving delicious, creamy ice cream from 7 to 9 p.m. Thorpewood’s Star Party is hosted by TriState Astronomers. Use their professional telescopes and make it an evening under the night sky. It’s a free, family-friendly activity to do with the kids. Feel

free to your own bring chairs, blankets, food, and drinks to enjoy the evening.

•••

Family Stroll ’n Sing

9:30 a.m. Sept. 6 Baker Park, Frederick Free

Mamas, this is for us and the littles! Join Mrs. Kelly with Music Together and Katie with FIT4MOM Frederick and have a special morning full of movement and dancing, music and singing, and good connection between parents. If your kids are in strollers, wheel it out to stroll along the

park. Moms and kids ages 0 to 5 are welcome to meet between the playground and pool along Fleming Avenue in Baker Park at 500 Fleming Ave. While this event is free, please register online.

•••

Flower Festival

10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sept. 6 and 7 Summers Farm, 7503 Hollow Road, Middletown

$20.95/person, ages 2 and under free

Saturday and Sunday, enjoy the beautiful landscape at Summers Farm for their last weekend of its Flower Festival. Pick your

own wildflowers, cosmos, zinnias, and sunflowers — but there’s more than that! Admission includes a wagon ride to the flower field, six flower blooms of your choice or 1/4 peck of apples, plus 45+ activities! Not only is the orchard new this year at Summers Farm, but the flower fields are bursting with even more varieties of flowers. Lots of photo ops in the fields while you pick your perfect bouquet. Enjoy live music and relax with loved ones! Don’t forget: Summers Farm is home to the Mega Slide for an add-on cost of $5/person. It’s so worth it! Woodfired pizza is served on weekends. Try one of their new lemonade or cider slushies! You can even sign up for an all-new Flower Arranging Class, separate from the Flower Festival. Check out the details and ticket info at summersfarm. com.

•••

Afroflavour Food Festival

2 to 8 p.m. Sept. 6

Carroll Creek Park, 50 Carroll Creek Way, Frederick Free

It’s time for the 2nd edition of the Afroflavour Food Festival! Head to Carroll Creek Saturday anytime between 2 and 8 p.m. to celebrate African culture, cuisine, and community. Afroflavour, a leading initiative promoting authentic African cuisine globally, and the Association of Nigerians in Frederick Maryland welcome everyone! There will be live music and entertainment and traditional African music, dance, and cultural performances that will keep attendees entertained throughout the day. Don’t miss it! For more information, visit afroflavour.org.

•••

Wet n Wild Water Day

3 to 8 p.m. Sept. 6

Sophie & Madigan’s Play-

ground, 638 Contender Way, Frederick Free

Hosted by Kotei Shaved Ice, Wet n Wild Water Day is the event kids want to attend! School’s are back, but let’s live out summer a little while longer. Kids can splash, slide, and soak up the sun at Sophie and Madigan’s Playground — Frederick’s favorite castle arena. Bring sunscreen and a towel because there will be free water activities and games galore, plus bouncy house inflatables for the older kids. In addition to Kotei’s Shaved Ice food truck, there will be other food trucks on site too, so come hungry. VIP Tickets available if you want a ‘skip-the-line’ wristband and grab a free cup of small shaved ice. VIP Tickets are on eventbrite.com.

•••

Cow to Cone

5 to 7 p.m. Sept. 6

Black Rock Farm, 3002 Black Rock Road, Myersville

$17/person

If you’ve got a sweet tooth and heart for Highland cows, spend time with your family at Black Rock Farm on Saturday evening. Cow to Cone is an event for animal and sugar lovers alike! All ages are welcome to attend. For one hour, pet and brush their adorable, hairy Highland cows on the picturesque Myersville farm and get a double scoop of ice cream from Misty Meadows. The DIY Ice Cream Bar will be full of toppings and sure to be a crowd pleaser to make your night sweeter.

Tiffany Mahaney is at least a fifth-generation native to Frederick County, and she now proudly raises her own family here. To see more local family friendly things to do, follow her on Instagram @thefrederickmom.

TIFFANY MAHANEY

Tiffany Mahaney

A scene from Gaver Farm in 2024.

Catoctin Furnace theater production will guide audiences through historic sites as its story unfolds

BY ERIN JONES

Special to The News-Post

“All the world’s a stage,” William Shakespeare famously wrote in his play “As you Like It.” However, were the Bard to visit Frederick County in September, he might amend his words to say, “All Catoctin Furnace is a stage.”

The magic of theater will bring history to life in a truly immersive and innovative experience this fall at the historic site in northern Frederick County.

The Catoctin Furnace Living History Festival will take place from Sept. 1114, offering seven opportunities for audiences to experience performances of “Iron Will,” an original play co-written by Reiner Prochaska, Ali Gilman and Susan Ciaverelli. Rather than sitting in one theater space, the audience will be divided into groups and move between settings so the events of the story unfold in multiple historic locations.

The format is similar to the performance “Spirits of the Furnace,” which moves the audience through the story physically, as opposed to remaining in one theater space. “Spirits of the Furnace” has been a Halloween tradition of the Catoctin Furnace Historical Society for more than two decades.

Despite the timing at Halloween, CFHS president Elizabeth Comer said “Spirits of the Furnace” is not meant to be scary like a ghost tour. Instead the program educates and entertains by introducing audiences to the varied historic characters who once populated the neighborhood.

“You’re led around the furnace, and you meet people who lived there, worked there, and you hear their stories,” Comer said. “You meet a miner, you meet a grave digger in the cemetery, you meet the gutter men in the furnace, and you meet the worshipers in the church. It’s very intimate. It’s only one night a year, and it always sells out.”

“Iron Will” is made possible through support from Plamondon Hospitality Partners and a grant from Visit Frederick, the latter of which is in preparation for the 250th anniversary of the United States.

While Maryland Governor Thomas Johnson may be the most recognizable character to appear, the play will highlight the roles of all involved, including enslaved people whose involvement has been downplayed or erased historically.

“The perception was that it was wholly European-American, and while, of course, there were European-Americans involved … the majority of the workers at the time, for the revolution, were building at the furnace and collaring, wood cutting, molding, fillers and all those jobs, they were enslaved Africans,” Comer said.

While the national bicentennial celebration 50 years ago spurred a lot of preservation efforts nationwide, Comer says there was a lack of acknowledgement of the role and stories of enslaved people. As the United States approaches its next milestone birthday, Comer is determined to honor those stories that have been erased along the way.

“Everyone has a right to their history,” Comer said. “There’s not one history. There are many. … The difference [is that] some history has been told in the past, and what we’re trying to do is make sure that the narrative is equal for every history.”

Bringing this vision to life both on the page and the stage is co-writer, producer and director Reiner Prochaska, a Frederick-based author and actor specializing in historical stagecraft.

Expanding on the structure of “Spirits,” “Iron Will” is set over a tense three days in October 1780 and will highlight Catoctin Furnace’s role in resourcing the Continental Army for the Battle of Yorktown.

“Catoctin Furnace was just right there in the middle of it — on a personal level, on an industrial level and on a national and international level,” Comer said. “And you really don’t think about that when you drive up Route 15, do you?”

Prochaska has enlisted Lydia West as cultural consultant to advise on the project and bring valuable perspective. In addition to her acting and directing prowess, West is a board member for Artistic Synergy of Baltimore. She also is a theater arts teacher and production

Courtesy photo

Erik Alexis as Thomas Johnson, at left, and Marshall Hackett as James Johnson.

left, Griffin Duy as Johann Schlegel and Reiner Prochaska as Brother Schlegel.

THEATERS

(Continued from 7)

One big ceiling and a landmark revival (2010) Architect Bing Thom’s breathtaking $135 million cantilevered roof enclosed the two existing theaters and a new space, the Arlene and Robert Kogod Cradle. The 200,000-square-foot, multilevel Mead Center for American Theater was a soaring architectural statement about the importance of theater to the city — and a cornerstone of the revival of the Southwest Waterfront.

Construction of the trendy Wharf district would soon follow.

No production seemed to reflect Smith’s appetite for reinterpreting classics — and using the musical form to unite a racially diverse city — than the show that opened the center. Her vibrant production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Oklahoma!” in a rejuvenated Fichandler Stage epitomized the idea that this quintessentially American art form belonged to everyone. She cast Nicholas Rodriguez and Eleasha Gamble — a Latino actor and a Black actress — as the lovers at the core of the 1943 musical. It was so popular it returned for a second run, and showed how older musicals can energize contemporary theatergoers.

but Arena stayed wide awake this summer 2015, when an untested Broadway producer, a callow composing team and a little-known lead actor occupied the Kreeger for a first-ever run of their musical. “Dear Evan Hansen,” about an introverted high school student played by Ben Platt who lies about his friendship with a dead classmate, broke into an emotional gallop and bowled over D.C. audiences and critics. Cementing Arena’s status as a bona fide testing ground for Broadway musicals, the show would eventually make its way to Times Square and Tony Awards glory, winning six trophies, including best musical, at the 2017 ceremony. •••

The future

director in Baltimore County.

“I really wanted an African-American perspective, and I really wanted a woman’s perspective also,” Prochaska said. “It’s really, really important to me to get it right.”

Prochaska was raised in post-war Germany, which he says affected both his interest in history and an understanding of its importance. “Understanding history is very important so we don’t repeat mistakes from the past,” he said. “I think that’s why I’ve always been fascinated by history. There are a lot of stories that just need to be told. It’s important to tell stories and history truthfully.”

The writers, with the help of Comer, scoured diaries, letters and historical documents, to bolster the authenticity of “Iron Will.” While some characters are pulled directly from the pages of history, others are imagined based on knowledge of the time.

To bring these characters to life, Prochaska has assembled a seasoned troupe of professional actors, some working regionally in Maryland and others working in New York, Washington State and the Globe Theater in London. The ensemble first conducted a table read over Zoom before assembling to rehearse on location beginning Aug. 27.

The unique mode of storytelling — to

guide the audience through a site-specific experience — meant the writers faced the unusual challenge of bringing together a cohesive story in which the audience would experience the scenes in different orders.

While acts 1 and 2 will be divided into three separate locations, the final act will culminate with the audience and cast gathering together at the furnace.

Prochaska calls the final scene a sort of grand finale that ties everything together.

Event parking will be available at Cunningham Falls State Park and shuttle bus service will be provided to the Museum of the Ironworker. As locations once commonplace come to life with the stories of the past, audience members will no doubt leave with a greater understanding of the significance Catoctin Furnace played in American history.

Erin Jones is a freelance writer, former humanities teacher and owner of Galvanize & Grow Copywriting. She holds a BA in English from Hood College and an MA in English from the Bread Loaf School of English, through which she studied literature at Middlebury College and Oxford University. Learn more at erinjoneswriter.com, or follow her on Instagram @ErinJonesWriter.

A deceptive teenager goes to Broadway (2015) Summers are conventionally sleepy times for regional theaters,

SHOW

(Continued from 7)

potatoes, dressing, gravy, green beans, sauerkraut, cranberry sauce, rolls and butter, assorted cakes for dessert, and beverages.

The Noteables, a choral group from Homewood Retirement Center, under the direction of Gail Slezak, former longtime music teacher at Catoctin High School, will perform from 6:15 to 7 p.m. Saturday in the auditorium.

The 51st annual Catoctin FFA Alumni & Supporters Beef, Sheep, Swine & Market Goat Sale will be in the Ag Center on Saturday night at 7 p.m. and approximately 50 animals will be sold. Buyers are welcome to support the local FFA and 4-H youth with their animal projects.

Activities in the Ag Center begin at 9 a.m. Sunday with the Dairy Goat Show, followed at 9:30 a.m. by the Dairy Cattle Show. The Decorated Animal Contest, with prize money and ribbons being awarded, is at 11 a.m.

In 2023, Arena welcomed its fourth artistic director, Hana S. Sharif, who in interviews has said she’d been dreaming of becoming Arena’s leader since her teens. She’s now putting her own imprint on the company by planning an ambitious 2025-26 season of nine productions in financially challenging times, from serious plays to a TLC musical. And in seeming tribute to the leaders she’s followed, revivals of two of their shows: “Damn Yankees” and “Inherit the Wind.” It’s only fitting that in a city where the American story plays out everywhere, it is being incisively told and retold on the stages of one of its flagship theater companies.

From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Kountry Kitchen Restaurant will cater and serve a broasted chicken and pulled pork barbecue buffet in the cafeteria, which benefits the Community Show.

Under the Ag Center’s big tent on Sunday, there will be children’s activities starting at noon, followed by the 1 p.m. Log Sawing Contest. Prize money and ribbons will be awarded to winners for all activities.

At 1 p.m. on the softball field, the 44th annual Robert Kaas horseshoe pitching contest will be held with prize money and ribbons to be awarded.

Exhibitors may remove their exhibits on Sunday, Sept. 7 from 3 to 5:30 p.m.

Five food vendors will be at the Community Show throughout the weekend: The Savagery, Glamourview Creamery, Cracken Catering, Acai for Me and the Catoctin FFA Chapter.

New residents of the community are encouraged to enter their exhibits. There is no fee to enter.

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From

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Melissa Scott as Rachel and Ray Hatch as Andrew.

Crestwood Gallery Summer Exhibit — through Sept. 5, Frederick Health Crestwood Building, 7211 Bank Court, Frederick. See original works of art, including oil, watercolor, mixed media and photography from some of Frederick County’s most talented artists. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. 240-215-1460 or frederickhealth.org/crestwoodart.

”Perpetual Beginnings” — through Sept. 19, Hood College, Hodson Gallery, Tatem Arts Center, 401 Rosemont Ave., Frederick. Works by Leslie Nolan. Hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. hood.edu, leslienolan.com.

“Harmonious Duality: Featuring Two Boots Farm” — through Sept. 22, Sandbox Brewhouse, 880 East St., Frederick. Phylinda Moore’s paintings feature Two Boots Farm, a sustainable, family-run Maryland flower farm. 50% of the profits will go to expanding a food health program with Moon Valley Farm and the Judy Center: Frederick County. Hours Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 4-10 p.m. Friday 3-11 p.m., Saturday noon-11 p.m. Sunday noon-8 p.m. sandboxbrewhouse. com.

”The Art of Overcoming: Healing Through Creativity” — Sept. 4-30, Washington County Arts Council, 34 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. Opening reception 5-7 p.m. Sept. 4. In conjunction with Washington Goes Purple. Hours 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday. 301-7913132, www.washingtoncountyarts.com.

”The Salvage Shore: Textiles & Talismans from the Coastal Fringe” — Sept. 5-28, NOMA Gallery, 437 N. Market St., Frederick. A collaborative exhibition by local artists Stephanie Schaub and Elisa Nickum, blending textile art and metalsmithing. Opening reception 5-8 p.m. Sept. 6. Gallery hours noon to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. 240-367-9770, nomagalleryfrederick.com.

”Experience the Creativity” — Sept. 6-Oct. 26, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Work in a variety of media from members of the Olney Art Association. Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

”Contemporary Kumiko” — Sept. 6-Oct. 26, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. The work in this exhibition is inspired by Kumiko, a Japanese art form established in the Asuka era (600–700 AD). These intricate pieces made of wood, fabric, gold leaf, and paper are part of David Gootnick’s work which introduces Kumiko to the broader audience. Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

”Contemporary Innovations: Erin

Fostel — A Room of Her Own” — Sept. 6-Oct. 26, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Fostel’s charcoal and graphite drawings are focused on the bedroom as a unique place where a sole woman occupant can be free of the objectification and expectation imposed upon her most anywhere else. The work acknowledges each woman through representation of her space, rather than her body. Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. MondaySaturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. 301698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

”Seven Ideas About Paradise” — Sept. 6-Oct. 26, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. This immersive experience in mixed media work by Julie Maynard takes inspiration from various mythological vantage points to explore the idea of paradise and humanity’s preoccupation with it. Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

”From Frederick County to Distant Shores” — Sept. 6-28, Links Bridge Vineyards’ Wine and Art Series, 8830 Old Links Bridge Road, Thurmont. An exhibit of artwork by 11 artists. The landscapes were all done in plein air, and either painted in Frederick, or while exploring distant shores, including, but not limited to, the charming streets of Paris, the timeless canals of Venice, the fishing villages of Croatia or even on our beautiful Chesapeake Bay. Come and see for yourself and enjoy a glass of wine! Weekends 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. or by appointment. 301-466-2413 or linksbridgevineyards.com.

“Bio-Translations” — Sept. 7 to Oct. 26 at Blanche Ames Gallery, 4880 Elmer Derr Road, Frederick. Work by Craig Cavin. Opening and artist talk will be held on Sept. 7. Call 301-473-7680 for gallery hours or for an appointment to view the show.

Frederick County Art Association 2025 Exhibit — Sept. 8 through Jan. 5, 2026, Frederick Health — Crestwood, 7211 Bank Court, Frederick. Works in oil, watercolor, mixed media and photography by some of Frederick County’s most talented artists. Hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. 240-215-1460 or frederickhealth.org/crestwood.

”Five Chicks With Brushes” — Oct. 4-26, Links Bridge Vineyards, Tasting Room, 8830 Old Links Bridge Road, Thurmont. An exhibit of artwork by a group of local artists called the Hands of the Artists. The artists are Sandy Cook, Pam Herrick, Ann Lundahl, Robin Seidel and Stephanie Torres. The exhibit features a variety of still life and landscape paintings, many of which celebrate local Maryland scenes. Artists reception 1-4 p.m. Oct. 5. Hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends or by appointment. 301-466-2413.

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A reception for the artists showing work in “From Frederick County to Distant Shores” at Links Bridge Vineyards will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. Sept. 7 at the vineyard in Thurmont. The show features a collection of plein-air paintings by 11 artists. Shown here, “Antietam Bridge,” by Deborah Richardson.

Gaslight Gallery shows work by Sarah Ernst in ‘Single Player Game’

The solo exhibition “Single Player Game,” featuring work by Sarah Ernst, will be on view from Sept. 6 to 28 at Gaslight Gallery in downtown Frederick.

Ernst is an artist, curator, museum professional and advocate for all things that help right the boat of life. She was born in Wyoming and currently works in Virginia. She is the president of the Greater DMV Women’s Art Caucus and the exhibitions chair for the National Women’s Art Caucus.

Her work in “Single Player Game” comes out of little epiphanies Ernst has had while doing mundane life tasks and navigating complex life events. This work is gritty but with a sense of humor and unveiled honesty. It is created by cobbling seemingly unrelated elements into compositions that become relatable visual conversations.

An opening reception will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Sept. 6.

The gallery is at 118 E. Church St., Frederick. Learn more at gaslightart.com.

ARTIST STATEMENT

At one point in time, the world was mostly monsters. Legions of fantastical things existed outside of ourselves that were, for the most part, unknown. Being creatures who make sense of things, we dedicated ourselves to understanding them. We categorized them, named them, and even found profound respect and admiration for them. Sometimes this was because of their destructive capabilities, instead of despite them. We challenged entropy and sorted our world. Then there were wolves and whales, and fewer monsters.

Equally important is the fact that there is a legion of things that exist inside of ourselves that are, for the most part, unknown. Mining oneself to get to know and name those things is an arduous task. It is also every bit as rewarding as knowing that the loud creature that has been tailing you with sharp teeth and claws is just a dog, and will turn out to be your best friend. Monsters are only stories of things we try to understand in their context and ours.

I paint monsters.

— Sarah Ernst

‘Conversations

With Nature’ at TAG

TAG/The Artists Gallery in downtown Frederick presents two powerful solo exhibitions reflecting the artists’ shared sensitivity to the unseen forces that shape our world. “What the Sky Let Go,” by S. Manya Stoumen-Tolino, and Jan McIntyreCreager’s “Drawn to Water” each explore how we experience, change and make an impact on our environment.

In “What the Sky Let Go,” StoumentTolino turns her focus skyward and inward, using layered paint, abstract gesture and expressive color to examine the emotional undercurrents of modern life in contrast with the natural world. Her work suggests the release of memory, tension, uncertainty and transformation — what falls from above and stirs within. Rooted in both representation and abstraction, the paintings invite viewers into a space of contemplation and emotional resonance, capturing the changing state of being human.

McIntyre-Creager’s “Drawn to Water” offers an intimate portrait of the woods and rivers the artist explores. Through oil

and cold wax, collage and monoprint, McIntyre-Creager brings together imagery inspired by paddling streams, observing the transformation of insects and the quiet presence of life along the water’s edge. Her work captures the beauty of the natural world while reflecting on its fragility in the face of human neglect.

Together, these exhibitions invite viewers to consider what moves around us and within us — be it current, wind, memory or emotion. Both artists share a deep attentiveness to environment and experience, translated through layered, expressive mark-making and a commitment to bearing witness.

The other TAG member artists will be showing work in Gallery II.

The exhibits run from Sept. 5 to 28 with an opening reception from 5 to 8 p.m. Sept. 6.

TAG is at 501 N. Market St., Frederick. See theartistsgalleryfrederick.com, or call 301-228-9860 for more information.

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“Jack n Sally,” by Sarah Ernst.

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“Embrace,” by Sarah Ernst.

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Details of work by S. Manya Stoumen-Tolino and Jan McIntyre-Creager.

The MET expands improv comedy offerings by adding a new venue

BY JOSEPH PETERSON

Special to The News-Post

Frederick’s newest stage is about to become the laughing stock of downtown’s theater district. For the theater company building it, that’s the goal!

The Maryland Ensemble Theatre, which has produced live theater in Frederick for more than 30 years, has been fundraising for — and constructing — Key Stage, a new 80-seat venue inside the FSK Hotel where the MET is based but designed specifically for its weekly comedy and improv offerings known as MET Comedy Night.

“It’s a comedy and cabaret space,” said MET managing director Melynda Burdette Wintrol, comparing it to intimate venues in bigger cities that feel more like a lounge with a raised platform, rather than a more traditional stage with raked seating and space for custom set design.

“If you’re in New York, you go to, like, 54 Below or any of the smaller cabaret rooms, and they’re table and chair seating, they’re a small stage,” she said, describing them as casual venues, often with a pretty back wall that doesn’t distract from the more flexible and imaginative performance of situational comedy and improv.

WHAT IT MEANS FOR THE MET

In this case, that “pretty back wall” may well be an existing, beautifully ornate ceiling instead, with its decorative plaster and intricate design — a carryover from when the space that will become the new venue was a stately ballroom on the main floor of the historic FSK Hotel. For the rest of the space, it’s in the throes of a mad dash to finish renovations by the advertised grand opening on Sept. 5 and 6 and the Key Stage’s public debut: MET’s annual Fall Comedy Extravaganza, marking the seasonal return of MET Comedy Night.

Notably, it will be the first time in 50 years when the FSK ballroom will function as a public event space. For the MET, adding 2,700 square feet to their domain inside the historic hotel includes more than a stage and seating. In a tour of the construction zone, MET cofounder and artistic director Tad Janes pointed out locations where a bar will go, as well as other aspects of a working venue the public doesn’t often see, like a green room that will double as a classroom for summer camps, storage space for set pieces that will allow the MET to close an

Melynda Burdette Wintrol, managing director of the Maryland

space for the MET on Aug. 29.

MET COMEDY NIGHT’S IMPROV COMEDY FESTIVAL

MET Comedy Night’s Improv Comedy Festival is back and bigger than ever, featuring all five MET Comedy Night house teams and special surprise guests in the MET’s brand-new Key Stage venue on Sept. 5 and 6.

The Sept. 5 performance will begin with a Grand Opening Reception and Ribbon Cutting at 6:30 p.m. This portion of the evening is free and open to the public, and guests are encouraged to RSVP in advance at marylandensemble.org. The evening will feature light refreshments and an opportunity to explore the updated venue before the curtain rises on that night’s performance. Following the ribbon cutting, audiences are invited to enjoy the Comedy Extravaganza, a separately tick-

offsite storage unit, and a multipurpose break room/kitchen.

All told, it constitutes a major expansion for the MET, which has its main offices and two other venues in the basement of the same building: a 94seat Mainstage blackbox theater and the FUN Theatre, a 72-seat thrust stage for its children’s theater series. For years, the MET’s improv comedy troupes, of which there are now five, would perform

eted event showcasing MET’s comedic talent. This milestone marks a significant moment in MET’s ongoing commitment to creating a vibrant, welcoming hub for live theater in downtown Frederick. Performances will feature the comedic talents of The Comedy Pigs, Oh Crit!, That’s What She Said, Off Key: An Improvised Musical, and Key City Improv, plus surprise acts from other fan-favorite MET Comedy Night shows. Shows start at 8 p.m. and run approximately two hours with one intermission. Tickets are $15 each and available at marylandensemble. org, by phone at 301-694-4744, or in person at the MET Box Office. Key Stage is at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick.

in the smaller of the two venues amid the storybook-style set pieces and backdrops for its children’s shows.

“The biggest thing is just creating a more intentional space for comedy so they don’t feel like it’s an afterthought,” said Wintrol. “Comedy Night would be performing on the set of ‘Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus’ or whatever, which is fine, but this is going to elevate the comedy experience.”

While great for Comedy Night, the benefits go both ways, according to Laura Stark, an improv artist, educator and 15-plus year veteran of MET’s Comedy Night who highlights what moving out of the shared spaces will do for each arm of the company.

“The new space will also allow us to rehearse children’s shows, Mainstage shows and offer more classes with plenty of room, while the improv and comedy shows can offer more performances,” she said. “This new space allows us to teach, rehearse and create with elbow room.”

MET programs for elementary schools and summer camps are in high demand, Wintrol said, and more space for comedy specifically equals increased capacity for the whole company.

“Our ensemble school and FUN Camp programming has been on a wait list,” she said. “We’ve maxed out our capacity in terms of space but not in terms of interest, so this is going to allow us to open up more sections and serve more students.”

WHAT IT MEANS FOR FREDERICK

There’s another aspect about this notion of increased capacity that has Wintrol excited to look beyond MET’s own productions and open the door of opportunity to other kinds of locally developed theater in search of affordable venues, often a white whale for would-be performers and production companies who want to play to Frederick audiences.

“If you talk to any artists in Frederick, they will tell you that space — renting space, finding space to do smaller productions — is impossible. There’s lots of playwrights and lots of people who want to be able to just have space to hear their work, to see their work, to experiment with it, to be able to have an audience to bounce it off of,” Wintrol said.

While she doesn’t think it’s the kind of venue that would be appropriate for groups looking to build a set, she sees things like dramatic readings and other kinds of pared-down productions as a promising, expanded use case for the new space.

“The infrastructure capacity is really exciting to me,” Wintrol said. “We are hoping to be able to increase our ability to rent spaces to other groups. Whether it’s the Key Stage or one of our other spaces, because we can have more flexibility for our own programming, too.”

Staff photo by Katina Zentz

Ensemble Theatre, poses in the new

Speak Story Series will feature deaf story artist Justin Perez

Speak Story Series continues its 13th season with deaf story artist Justin Perez and a spoken language interpreter.

The show starts at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 9 live at Shepherdstown Presbyterian Church, 100 W. Washington St., Shepherdstown, West Virginia, and will also be available to stream live. Doors open at 7 p.m.

A graduate of the Texas School for the Deaf in Austin, Texas, Perez is driven by an unwavering love for American Sign Language performance art and storytelling. He has traveled the world with Visual Vernacular as his specialty and favorite performance style, His ultimate ambition is to introduce his groundbreaking VV performance art to

the global sign language community. Perez leads audiences on a journey where creativity and communication harmonize.

Tickets are $20, $10 for students and free for season ticket holders. Buy in-person tickets at the door or online

Speak is for audiences age 13 and up. Learn more at speakstoryseries.com.

Gaithersburg Book Festival seeks submissions for its annual High School Poetry Contest

The Gaithersburg Book Festival’s annual high school poetry contest is open for submissions. This year students are asked to craft a poem on the topic “What Is Humanity?”

First and second place winners will receive $250 and $100, respectively. Third place and fan favorite winners will receive $50 and $25, respectively. Winners will be unveiled at the Gaithersburg Book Festival on May 16 at 10:15 a.m. at 506 S. Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg), followed by an open mic reading from students and audience members.

The contest is open to students enrolled in ninth to 12 grade this year at a public or private institution or homeschooled in any Maryland, D.C. or Virginia counties.

“Every year our high school poets surprise us with their imaginative poems,” said Jud Ashman, festival chair and mayor of the City of Gaithersburg. “We’re excited to see how they view humanity in this year’s High School Poetry Contest.”

Contest Entry Rules:

• Poem must be on the topic of “What Is Humanity?”

• Submitted as a Word document (.doc or .docx)

• Typed in 12 pt. Times New Roman

• One page in length

• File name should be the title of the

poem only (e.g., The_Red_Fern.doc).

• Don’t include the name of the student or school in the file name or on the document.

• Headshot photo required on entry form

• Must be the original work of the student and not previously published online or in print.

• Poems generated by artificial intelligence are not accepted.

By submitting work to the contest, students grant the Gaithersburg Book Festival a non-exclusive license to publish, distribute, transmit and exhibit the poem and any portions thereof via any medium without financial compensation.

Poems must be submitted electronically via web by midnight ET on Feb. 20, 2026.

Up to 12 poems will be selected as finalists and posted on the Gaithersburg Book Festival website prior to the festival. Finalists will also be asked to record a video of themselves reading their poems, which will accompany their poem in print on Gaithersburg Book Festival website for fan favorite voting. A release will be required.

Complete rules and regulations area available at gaithersburgbookfestival.org. Questions can be emailed to writingcontest@gaithersburgbookfestival.org.

Justin Perez Photo courtesy of Speak Story Series

‘Loving John’

Documentary celebrates the life and legacy of beloved local runner

BY ERIN JONES Special to The News-Post

Before his diagnosis, John Godinet loved to gather his running community and disappear into the woods for long, rambling runs. The destination and route was partially known at best, and largely improvised.

Metaphorically, those long runs are not unlike the process of filming a documentary, according to director Robert Rooy. Filmmakers follow the story, even when they don’t know exactly where it will lead.

Rooy initially set out to make a short film about the Frederick running community rallying around Godinet on the heels of his diagnosis of Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Instead, he spent over four years chronicling Godinet’s journey all the way to its end in 2021, as well as his legacy and impact on the community who loved him.

Now a feature-length film, “Loving John” will be screened at its Maryland premiere at 6 p.m. Sept. 6 at Dance Unlimited, ahead of its PBS broadcast, targeted for May 2026. The event not only marks the local debut of the film but an opportunity to celebrate the life of one whose influence and absence leaves a sizable ripple-effect in the community.

“[John’s] involvement in my life was incredibly life-changing,” said Jennifer Williams, of Braddock Heights, one of Godinet’s closest friends. “I have no doubt whatsoever that he’s extended my life by many years. I developed really healthy habits

that I still enjoy, even though he’s not here. In fact, running kind of makes me feel close to him now. Every time I go running, I just thank John.”

Williams first crossed paths with Godinet 25 years ago when she noticed him teaching step classes at Frederick Bodyworks Health & Wellness. She was drawn to his energy and how much fun the class seemed to be having. One Valentine’s Day, Godinet was handing out Godiva chocolates to his students. Though Williams hadn’t taken the class, he gave one to her and suggested she take his step class. She said was nervous, but with characteristic enthusiasm, Godinet convinced her to try.

Williams not only became an accomplished member of the step class, but before long she was running with Godinet and his friends. She has since participated in 10 full marathons and countless other races.

Rooy’s first knowledge of Godinet also took place at a Frederick gym, this time Gold’s Gym, where Rooy’s wife Sally taught yoga just before Godinet’s wildly popular Zumba class.

“The energy in the place great, and he always had smile on his face. He always people clustered around pretty obvious, even then, was a people magnet,” the recalled.

The memories are tinged shades of hindsight however. net began to have trouble like plugging cords into system. Then he stopped ing, and the Rooys learned had been diagnosed with known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.

ALS is “a progressive generative disease that affects cells in the brain and spinal cording to the ALS association. condition is devastating sive, progressing an average years until becoming fatal.

A 2016 News-Post article Godinet’s diagnosis and quent support of his running nity caught Rooy’s attention that deserved to be documented film. He attended a New fun run in Braddock Heights

John Godinet completes the Frederick Half Marathon.

Corrigan Sports Enterprises

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John Godinet runs in a prisoner’s suit in the Marine Corps Marathon.

place was had a great always had around him. It was then, that he the filmmaker tinged with however. Goditrouble with things the sound stopped teachlearned that he with ALS, also disease. neurodeaffects nerve spinal cord,” acassociation. The and aggresaverage of three fatal. article about the subserunning commuattention as a story documented on Year’s Day Heights in 2017,

which was both a fundraiser for Godinet and ALS. Godinet was dressed in angel wings and an angel costume.

“Money was hitting that basket left, right and center,” Rooy said. “I think that the collection was something like $5,000, 10 times more than usual. I [realized], there’s really something going on here. It’s not just about ALS. It’s obviously about John.”

Williams remembers Rooy’s early appearances with a camera at running or social events. With characteristic humor, Godinet pretended not to know who he was or accused Rooy of stalking him. Before long, however, not only Rooy but also his family would become fixtures in Godinet’s circle. After a year of filming, it became clear that there was much more story to tell.

“By the end of the year, I was so taken by John and by his relationship with his husband, Peter, and by his closest friends, out of the multitudes who knew and loved John,” Rooy said. “I decided that I was going to keep following the story.”

Aside from the running commu-

John Godinet and team run in Freedom’s Run Half Marathon. Paul Encarnación

nity in Frederick, Godinet was active and beloved in many communities, from his large American Samoan family and involvement in the American Samoa Society of Washington, D.C., to the Myersville Lions Club and beyond. He was known for his infectious and positive energy, uproarious humor, and faith, as well as his devotion to his husband, Peter Dare, and their dogs. Both veterans, Godinet from the Army and Dare from the Navy, the couple married in 2013, though they were together for 43 years.

“John was the light of my life,” Dare said.

For Dare, the documentary meant adjusting to both filmmaker and camera lens while his partner of over four decades declined in front of him. As he got to know Rooy, his growing trust and comfort level evolved into a close bond.

“It was nice to have confidence in Rob’s ability, knowing that he knew what he was doing. He’s done this before. That was a good feeling for us,” Dare said. “He was rolling with the punches and not being too

intrusive with us either, letting us relax when we needed to.”

In the spring of 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic struck a devastating blow to a situation already fraught with difficulty. By then, Godinet’s respiratory system was already compromised, and his loved ones feared the virus could be fatal.

His friends gathered on a Zoom call and organized an effort to keep both him and Dare protected and well-supplied. They took turns bringing groceries, disinfecting them before leaving them for Dare to collect. Other times, they dropped off home-cooked meals and treats — anything to bring some cheer to their isolated world.

“They were instrumental in making sure that things went smoothly and that John was safe. I didn’t have to go out to the store. They did everything for us,” Dare said.

soned in weaving together the light and shadow that forms life’s complexities. He spent nearly three decades as an assistant director in Hollywood but ultimately wanted to have a more creative role in terms of storytelling. He secured a film contract with an ocean liner ship company that sailed around South America and up the coast of California.

IF YOU GO

Maryland premiere of “Loving John” — 6 to 10 p.m. Sept. 6 at Dance Unlimited Studios at the Performing Arts Factory, 244 S. Jefferson St., Frederick. Dinner by Modern Asia Restaurant and libations included. Order tickets at lovingjohnmovie. com/events.

The commitment to quarantining left Dare as the sole caretaker of his husband. Godinet used a wheelchair by then, and the physical demands on Dare, who is in his 70s, were significant.

“We did what we had to do to still be with them, but it was so hard for poor Peter who could be the only caregiver now,” Williams said.

Separated by a bay window and communicating by phone, Godinet talked with his visitors and sometimes recorded interviews with Rooy. When the weather turned warmer, conversations moved to the lawn or carport. Rooy sometimes brought a TV, and the two would watch documentaries together. Eventually Rooy would take out his camera and ask if Godinet wanted to say anything. Over time, Rooy said, “We reached a greater depth of intimacy in terms of what he was willing to share.”

The documentary does not shy away from its difficult subject matter, following its subjects through the good times and the painful ones.

As a storyteller, Rooy is well-sea-

“There was this incredible juxtaposition between places of beauty and a grimmer picture,” he said of the experience. “You could be on the beaches of Ipanema and Rio, and you could hear and smell the favelas on the hillside just blocks away.”

Wanting to use his filmmaking to address inequity, he sent letters to humanitarian organizations like UNICEF and the Red Cross offering to shoot film for them on a volunteer basis if they would cover the expenses. He estimates that he traveled to two or three dozen countries working for nonprofits in this way, while continuing his AD work as needed.

He won a 2017 George Foster Peabody Award for his documentary “Deej,” for which he worked in partnership with a non-speaking autistic man.

For “Loving John,” he estimates he had over 500 hours of video footage, the result of a multi-faceted story that evolved over multiple years.

“[John was] a brown man in a predominantly white community. It’s an LGBTQ story over decades where people initially maybe didn’t know that John and Peter were a couple but gradually realized they were in love and loved them anyway. Then it became about caregiving and ultimately, as the film reveals, it’s also about end-of-life decisions,” Rooy said.

Williams attended a screening of the film at the Woods Hole Documentary Film Festival in Cape Cod earli-

(See GODINET 30)

Shepherdstown Film Society

The Shepherdstown Film Society a nnounces its fall season, which starts Sept. 5 with a screening of “Babette’s Feast” and a pre-film reception open to all.

The Film Society, after a multiround selection process, has selected four films for its fall season:

“Babette’s Feast” (1987) — An acclaimed classic and winner of an Oscar for Best Foreign Film featuring one of the most famous meals in movie history. Sept. 5.

“Flow” (2024) — Oscar- and Golden Globe-winning animated film that follows a courageous cat on a wondrous journey, through realms natural and mystical, after his home is devastated by a great flood. Oct. 3.

“Universal Language” (2024) — Dubbed a “lightly satirical and surrealist comedy.” Nov. 7.

“Wicked Little Letters” (2023) — A riotous mystery comedy set in a 1920s English seaside town based on a stranger-than-fiction true story. Dec. 5.

The Shepherdstown Film Society’s signature feature — apart from its

carefully curated selections — is the post-film facilitated discussion that enriches the viewing experience. Shepherd University professor Rachel Krantz will lead the discussion after “Babette’s Feast” on Sept. 5.

“The Film Society’s goal is to select and show ‘Films That Make You Think,’” said Film Society chair Sheila Vertino. “The fall 2025 season delivers on that promise and will be fun and memorable for our community.”

Screenings will start at 7:30 p.m. and are scheduled on the first Fridays of September, October, November and December.

The films are screened at Shepherdstown Opera House, 131 W. German St., Shepherdstown, West Virginia. Admission is pay-what-you-can. Advanced reservations are encouraged because seating is limited. Online reservations are available until one hour before showtime. Seating is general admission. Reservations and additional information is available at operahouselive.com.

(Continued from 14)

WHAT’S IN STORE FOR COMEDY AND MORE

When it comes to MET’s comedy shows, it’s a story of potential energy giving way to kinetic momentum. With five improv groups, each with their own style and point of view, and a backlog of creative ideas, the days of squeezing in a late-night comedy show after an evening performance on existing stages are now at a happy end.

With the addition of Fridays as a set date for Comedy Night instead of just an occasional occurrence, Wintrol estimates an increase of at least 25 performances in the year from that expansion alone.

MET Comedy Night manager Molly Parchment said that kind of bankable reliability for both Fridays and Saturdays in the weekly calendar all year is really the dream for improv theater.

“I think it’s gonna be huge for us,” Parchment said. “We’re trying to give people of Frederick a place that they know. If they wanna go see comedy on any weekend of the year, they can go to the MET and see it at the Key Stage.”

Just as having more performances means more time slots for each of the five comedy groups to perform, there’s also an opportunity for each group to flex their comedy chops and develop new kinds of shows, one-off spoofs,

special engagements and other ideas. This year will see improvised spoofs for both “Goosebumps” and Jane Austen in October and February respectively, events for which teasers will be performed at the Fall Comedy Extravaganza. For Parchment, it’s really just the beginning for a level of creative productivity long kept dormant by venue limitations.

“The people that improvise and performers who are involved in MET Comedy Night have so many wonderful hopes and dreams of shows that would be amazing to add as we continue to grow,” she said. “I feel like the sky is the limit.”

As one of those performers, and a co-creator of the new Inebriated Series at MET — itself a kind of non-branded version of the popular “Drunk History” events that have taken comedy cabaret spaces in other cities by storm — Stark sees Key Stage as an opportunity to perform that series more often and looks forward to other nascent ideas in bloom among the comedy players.

“MET is filled with creative and hilarious minds,” Stark said, “so this new space is an empty canvas for us.”

Joseph Peterson can usually be found reading the weathered plaques of obscure monuments he sees while wandering the city. He counts public libraries, public lands and places where local community is fostered among his favorite kinds of places.

Courtesy photo

“Flow” will screen on Oct. 3.

Courtesy photo

“Wicked Little Letters” will screen on Dec. 5.

Courtesy of the Maryland Ensemble Theatre

Key Stage after a partial wall and floor demolition.

BEEF OR CHICKEN PLATTERS

Carry-out or Eat under pavilion Burkittsville Ruritan Club

Choice of Hot Roast Beef Sandwich w/Gravy or 4-pc Fried Chicken, French Fries, Green Beans, Applesauce and Cold Drink - $15/platter Roast Beef Sandwiches - $7

Pre-order by Sept 6

Pick-up on Sept 13 (1-4p)

Call 301-371-7795

BUFFET DINNER

Mt Airy VFC Auxiliary

Fri, Sept 5, 2025

4-7p or until sold out

Eat in or Carry-out

Fried Chicken, Fried Shrimp, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Cole Slaw, Green Beans, Buttered Corn, Baked Apples, & Stewed

Tomatoes

Adults: $18; Children 6-12: $8 00

Under 5 is FREE; ($2 extra for carry-out)

Mt. Airy VFC Reception Hall

1008 Twin Arch Rd, Mt Airy Credit or Debit Cards Accepted

CATOCTIN MOUNTAIN

ORCHARD

Available in our Market: Blackberries, Dark Sweet Cherries

Apples: Gala, Honeycrisp, Summer Rambo

Red & Purple Plums, Pears, Free Stone Yellow & White Peaches, Bananas, Clementines, White & Red Seedless Grapes, Sugar Cube Cantaloupe, Watermelon

Red & White Onions, Celery, Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes, Green Beans, Local Corn, Cherry Tomatoes, Tomatoes, Cabbage

Peppers: Green, Banana, Cubanelle, Jalapeno & Chili Peppers, Radish, Kale, Baby Carrots, Cauliflower & Broccoli

Grab & Go Soups, Salads, Fruit Parfaits & Sandwiches. Fresh Baked Fruit Pies, Apple Cider Donuts, Apple Dumplings

Homegrown Flower Bouquets, Hanging Baskets, Potted Flowers & Succulents

Specialty CMO Ice Cream, Fruit Slushies, Jams & Jellies 301-271-2737

Open Daily 9am-5pm 15036 North Franklinville Rd. Thurmont MD www catoctin mountain orchard.com

MUMS AND PUMPKINS!

Many colors and shapes!

Delicata, acorn, spaghetti squash, Pears, Peaches, Apples, Canning tomatoes, Sweet corn, Peppers

10 – 6 Daily, Closed Sunday 11434 Keymar Rd Woodsboro, Md 21798 240 439 9401

SCENIC VIEW ORCHARDS

Our Own Sweet Corn Tomatoes, Nectarines, Lodi White & Yellow Peaches Plums, Berries, Melons Beans, Onions, Cole crops Cucumbers, Potatoes, Squash Honey, Jams, Jellies 16239 Sabillasville Rd Sabillasville MD 21780

Open 10:00-5:00 Daily 301-271-2149 scenicvieworchards com Frederick Farmers Market 1215 West Patrick St Every Saturday 10-1:00 YMCA Farmers Market 1000 North Market St Every Tuesday 3:30-6:30

WALK TO CONQUER CHILDHOOD CANCER

Sunday, Oct 5, 2025 • 2PM Old National Pike District Park, Mt Airy, MD Join us as we walk to raise money for pediatric cancer research Register / Donate at www kylescrusaders com

PRYOR'S ORCHARD

Local Grown Sweet Corn

Peaches: Cresthaven & White Sweet Plums, Nectarines Honeycrisp, Ginger Gold & Gala Apples Red & White Bartlett Pears

Also as available: Tomatoes, Red Beets, Greens Beans, Kale Zucchini, Patty Pan & Yellow Squash, Cucumbers & Pickles

Melons & Lopes Assortment of honeys, jellies, sparkling ciders

Always call first: 301-271-2693

Open Daily 7:30am-6:00pm 2 miles west of Thurmont off Route 15 take 77 West, 1 mile to Pryor Rd www PryorsOrchard com

SOUP & SANDWICH SALE

Pre-order by 09/02/2025

Pick-up Friday 09/05/2025 9:00 a m -12:00 p m 301-874-2368

All freshly made onsite 8" subs: $8 00 Cold Cut, Ham & Cheese Turkey & Cheese, Chicken Salad & Country Ham Sandwiches: $6 00 Chicken Salad & Country Ham

Crab Cake Sandwich: $9 00 (fried or uncooked)

By the lb: chicken salad $12; sliced country ham $12

Soup: Bean & Cntry Ham, Chicken Corn, Vegetable, bowl $4 00 / qt $8 00, Maryland Crab bowl $5/qrt $9 Bake table and goodies available! Carroll Manor Fire Co.

Pick-up at: 2793 Adams St, Adamstown, MD

MUMS ARE BACK!

Fresh from the PA Fields Guaranteed to come back next year! $3-$7-$15 each

Also available Hibiscus, Bags of Mulch 2 cubic ft, Red, Brown & Black- $3 50 ea Only at DR Virts 800 Petersville Rd, Brunswick, Md 301-969-6115

Come on down and see me! Cash & Cards

WEEKLY BINGO

Every Friday Night

Doors open @ 5 p m , Bingo starts @ 7 p m

Bonanza, Early Bird, Regular, Specials, Jackpot! Small Jackpot-$500 Big Jackpot-$1500 Great Food!

Thurmont Event Complex 13716 Strafford Drive Thurmont, Maryland Thurmont Community Ambulance Service, Inc

Local Mentions Yard Sales Services Services

THURMONT & EMMITSBURG COMMUNITY SHOW

Friday, Saturday & Sunday, Sept 5, 6 & 7, 2025

Catoctin High School, 14745 Sabillasville Road, Thurmont, MD 21788

Visit: www ThurmontEmmitsburg CommunityShow com

Bring your Family to an Educational & Agricultural Event!

FREE Admission, Parking & Entertainment

Over 3,000 Farm, Garden, Household & Animal Exhibits

All Weekend - Friends of the Thurmont Public Library Book Sale, Historic Catoctin Area Photos Display Farm Machinery Display and Sow & Piglets

Food Vendors: Acai for Me, Cracken Catering, Glamourview Creamery & The Savagery

Visit: www.ThurmontEmmitsburg CommunityShow.com

Friday, Sept. 5 • 5:30-9 pm

6:30 pm – Community Groups Flag Ceremony & 2025-26 Catoctin FFA Ambassador Announcement

7:30 pm – Baked Goods Auction; 8 pm –Grand & Reserve Champions are Sold! -- Buyers are Welcome!

Come and support the Community Show’s largest annual fundraiser! --

Sat, Sept. 6 • 9 am-9 pm

9 am – Beef, Sheep, Swine & Market Goat Show

9:30 am – Wags for Hope Presentation & 10 am – Pet Show

10 am-3 pm – Petting Zoo, Face Painting, Beekeeping Display & Library Rover Van 3-6:30 pm – Roast Turkey & Baked Ham Buffet catered by Kountry Kitchen Restaurant

6:15-7 pm – The Noteables Vocal Performance – Gail Slezak, Director 7-7:15 pm – Richard Troxell, Tenor Vocalist – Special Guest Performance 7 pm – Beef, Sheep, Swine & Market Goat Sale

Sun, Sept. 7 • 9 am-3 pm 9 am – Dairy Goat & Dairy Cattle Show

10 am-3 pm – Petting Zoo, Face Painting & Beekeeping Display 11 am - Decorated Animal Contest

11 am-2 pm – Broasted Chicken & Pulled Pork BBQ Buffet catered by Kountry Kitchen Restaurant Noon – Kiddie Pedal Tractor Pull (ages 510)

1 pm – Log Sawing Contest & Horseshoe Pitching Contests

Sponsored by the Thurmont Grange, Catoctin FFA Chapter, Catoctin FFA Alumni & Supporters, MD State Grange & MD Agricultural Fair Board

CLOVER RIDGE COMMUNITY YARD SALE

Sat Sept 6, 8a-2p

Christophers Crossing/ Opossumtown Pike area

Lots of nice stuff & huge variety of items! YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS THIS ONE! Rain or shine

FARMBROOK COMMUNITY YARD

COMPETITIVE PRICING

We Haul it all with one phone call, count on Luke; No job is too BIG or too small

• Junk Removal

• Professional Moving Services

• Appliance Removal

• Bed and Mattress Removal

• Mulch Delivery

• Lawnmower & Equipment Removal

• Light Demo

• Welding repairs and fabrication

• Hauling needs

• Dump trailer available for rent

PRICES! 20% Off 1st Job! Please call to enquire Talkinscrap@yahoo.com

• Hauling/ Clean-Outs

material taken to the dump or recycled

• Landscaping/ Mulching/ Shrub Trimming

• Tree & Stump Removal

• Brush Clearing

• Mowing/ Leaf Clean-up/ Fall Clean-up

• Power Washing

• Outdoor Handyman

• Snow Services

• Retaining Walls

• Fence Repair • Farm Work

• Furniture Rearrangement & Removal

• Appliance Removal

• Garage & Shed Clean-Outs

• Demolition - Fence / Shed Removal

• Hauling & Deliveries

• Hedge Trimming & Small Tree Removal 20% off 1st-time customers 240-732-9442 lukeshaulandproperty @gmail com

"When Your Honey won't, Call Honey Do!"

Pruning

Landscape

Construction

Thursday Sept. 4

CLASSES

Teen Time: Yoga — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 North Maple Avenue, Brunswick. Join us for a relaxing and mindful evening of yoga and meditation with Cathy Spence! Please bring a yoga mat or beach towel with you if you have one. This program is for teens in 6th through 12th grades (ages 11-18). 301-600-7250.

Tween Time: Yoga — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 North Maple Avenue, Brunswick. Join us for a relaxing and mindful evening of yoga and meditation with Cathy Spence! Please bring a yoga mat or beach towel with you if you have one. This program is for tweens in 3rd through 8th grades (ages 8-13).

301-600-7250.

Greener Living Series: Green Homes — Simple Steps for a Big Impact — 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Urbana Regional Library, 9020 Amelung St., Frederick. What is your landscape’s impact on the Chesapeake Bay? How is your energy use connected to climate change? And how can “going green” help you cut costs? Join us to learn how simple actions around your home can have a positive impact on our environment — and help your household’s budget too! From small steps like rain barrels to big projects like solar panels, we’ll look at cost-effective ways to make your home more sustainable. This lively, interactive session will provide info about the rebates, community challenges and household assistance that are part of Frederick County’s Green Homes Program.

301-600-7000.

fcpl.org.

ETCETERA

Teen Library Council (TLC) ages 11-18 — 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Urbana Regional Library, 9020 Amelung St., Frederick. Tweens and teens, grades 6 through 12, meet to collaborate with each other and teen librarians on upcoming library events and to plan teen-led projects. Teen Library Council (TLC) is an opportunity for teens to make an impact within the library and the wider community.  301-600-7000.

FAMILY

Gaver Farm Fall Fun Festival — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Gaver Farm, 5501 Detrick Rd, Mount Airy. 7-acre corn maze, giant slides, ropes courses and new bee line zip line. Farm animal petting area, free hay rides,

lively chicken show, photo centers, pickyour-own pumpkins with 45 varieties, newly expanded apple orchard. Food includes apple cider donuts, cider slushies and more, farm market. See website for ticket prices. 301-865-3515. office@gaverfarm.com. gaverfarm.com.

Musical Storytime — 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Music, movement and stories for the whole family. Designed for babies of all ages with a caregiver. 301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Elementary Explorers: Who was Jacques Cousteau? — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Get ready to dive deep into adventure with Who Was Jacques Cousteau? — the coolest underwater explorer ever! Discover how Jacques Cousteau swam with sharks, explored shipwrecks, and even helped invent scuba gear so we can breathe underwater like fish! Participate in a variety of experiences related to science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics.  This program is designed for children in grades K-5 and their caregivers. 301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

MUSIC

Alive@Five: Freddie Long Band — 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Carroll Creek Amphitheater, Frederick. Craft beverages and food available by local breweries, distilleries and food trucks. 21 and older, with ID. $6. 301-698-8118. downtownfrederick.org.

Live Jazz at the Cocktail Lab — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Tenth Ward Distilling Co., 55 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Get swanky with us every Thursday night for live jazz and your favorite craft cocktails. 21 and older. 301-360-5888. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. tenthwarddistilling.com.

POLITICS

Meet the Republican Candidates for City Council and Mayor — 7 p.m. to 8:50 p.m. at Community Room (CBA), C. Burr Artz Public Library , 110 E. Patrick St., Frederick . Join the Frederick County Republicans to meet our candidates: Tom Trott for mayor, Joe Adkins for District 4, Rob Callahan for District 5. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., social hour at 7 p.m., candidate speeches at 8 p.m.   703-408-2404. kate@taylorformaryland. com.

Middletown Town Board Meeting — Public Hearing — 7 p.m. at Middletown Municipal Center, 31 W. Main St., Middletown. For proposed changes to the Streets, Sidewalks and Public Places, Ordinance Section 12.08.040. Join the meeting: https://call.lifesizecloud.com/11085268, Passcode: 21769. office@ci.middletown.md.us. middletown.md.us.

Duplicate Bridge — noon to 4 p.m. at The Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration, 6909 Maryland Ave., Braddock Heights. Looking for a competitive mind sport? Frederick Bridge Club duplicate games allow you to hone your skills and meet other bridge enthusiasts. All are welcome; partner required. $8. 301-639-1009. brogan.liz@gmail.com. bridgewebs.com/frederick.

Friday Sept. 5

ETCETERA

Auxilary to MAVFD Buffet Dinner — 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Mount Airy Reception Hall, 1008 Twin Arch Road, Mount Airy. Fried chicken and fried shrimp with assorted sides. All-you-can-eat. Desserts additional purchase. $18. 301-829-2112. rickyericky@aol.com.

Barnyard Band & Booze with the Amish Outlaws — 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Green Meadows Petting Farm, 10102 Fingerboard Road, Ijamsville. The Amish Outlaws will be playing their unique blend of various musical genres. Various breweries, distilleries, wineries, food and more on-site. Enjoy an adult beverage purchased from one of our vendors. The Animal Barn will also be open. Bring your blankets, chairs & friends. Children are welcome. Visit website for more information and the latest updates.   $20 to $25, for ages 2 and older, babies free. 301-865-9203. info@greenmeadowsevents.com. greenmeadowsevents.com.

Mead and Read Trivia at Orchid Cellar Meadery — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Orchid Cellar Meadery, 8546 Pete Wiles Road, Middletown. Gather a team of up to 6 people for a fun night of trivia. Questions will be inspired by mystery books. The winning team will receive two free flights of mead. Team registration opens at 5:30 p.m. Trivia will begin promptly at 6 p.m. Perucho’s Peruvian food truck will be on-site. Ages 21+. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Acute Triangle — 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Cactus Flats, 10026 Hansonville Road, Frederick. Variety of music. 21 and older.

Bad Influence — 9 p.m. at Jojo’s Restaurant And Tap House, 16-18 E. Patrick St., Frederick. An electrifying evening with Bad Influence Band! Known for their powerhouse blues, rock and groove-infused sound, they’ll have you on your feet all night long. 21 and older.

301-910-8551. jr@badinfluenceband.com. www.badinfluenceband.com.

FAMILY

Gaver Farm Fall Fun Festival — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Gaver Farm, 5501 Detrick Rd, Mount Airy. 7-acre corn maze, giant slides, ropes courses and new bee line zip line. Farm animal petting area, free hay rides, lively chicken show, photo centers, pickyour-own pumpkins with 45 varieties, newly expanded apple orchard. Food includes apple cider donuts, cider slushies and more, farm market. See website for ticket prices.

301-865-3515. office@gaverfarm.com. gaverfarm.com.

FESTIVALS

Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show — 5:30 p.m. at Catoctin High School, 14745 Sabillasville Road, Thurmont. Opening ceremonies 6:30 p.m. with the 47th annual Community Organizations Flag ceremony. Patriotic music by the Catoctin High School Band, announcement of the 2025-26 Catoctin FFA Chapter Ambassador, free admission and a silver offering will be received to benefit the Sabillasville Environmental School. Baked goods auction 7:30 p.m. Thurmont Regional Library used book sale all weekend. Also, historical area photographs and memorabilia and quilts display, community organization displays. Activities continue Sept. 6 and 7. 301-271-2104.

MUSIC

Live Music at the Cocktail Lab — 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Tenth Ward Distilling Co., 55 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Every Friday in the Cocktail Lab we’ll be servin’ up our deliciously wild concoctions and some sweet tunes to get your weekend started off right. 21 and older.

301-360-5888. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. tenthwarddistilling.com.

Saturday Sept. 6

CLASSES

Pawpaws, a Little-Known Treasure — 10 a.m. to noon at University of Maryland

Extension Office, 330 Montevue Lane, Frederick. Discover a native gem you can grow right in your own backyard! Find out how and why to grow this large, tasty fruit — and how native plants can help your entire garden thrive. Tour the pawpaw patch in our Demo Garden. 301-600-1596. arembold@umd.edu. bit.ly/FCMG25-Pawpaws.

Freedom Bang Class — 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Freedom Bang is a pre-choreographed fusion of boxing, HIIT, hip hop, world dance, optional weighted gloves and just a touch of attitude. Offering a wide range of intensity options to help you customize your workout. 18 and older. 301-600-8200.

www.fcpl.org.

Winterizing Your Garden — 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Myersville Community Library, 8 Harp Place, Myersville . Join Master Gardener Tiger Waddell and learn how to prepare your garden for colder months. Topics will include winter shutdown, spring prep and seed saving. Opportunity for questions and answers to follow. 301-600-8350. rkurtz@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Conversation Class for English Language Learners — 10:30 a.m. to noon at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Adults who want to practice their English are welcome to a conversation class hosted by the Literacy Council of Frederick County. Participants will practice their speaking and listening skills with conversations guided by an instructor from the Literacy Council of Frederick County. 18 and older.

301-600-7250.

ETCETERA

Myersville Farmers Market — 9 a.m. to noon at Municipal parking lot, 301 Main St., Myersville. Saturdays through Oct. 25. myersvillefarmersmarket.com.

A Circus Experience with Theatricks of Frederick — 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 North Maple Avenue, Brunswick. Enjoy a circus experience with Theatricks of Frederick, which is a performance and educational company that recognizes the values of art and culture as powerful agents in the education of all young people, producing knowledge, self-awareness and promoting the interchange of ideas and experiences. This program is for all ages.

301-600-7250.

Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser and Silent Auction — 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Brook Hill United Methodist Church, 8946 Indian Springs Road, Frederick. Fundraiser to support the missions of BHUMC Youth Group. Meal includes spaghetti, meat sauce or tomato sauce, garlic bread, lemonade, iced tea & coffee. Soda & dessert for sale at the Youth Bake Sale table Suggested donation: $10 per person, $25 per family of 4. Some gluten-free and vegetarian options available. RSVP. 301-662-1727. nursery@bhumc.org. brookhill.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/284/ responses/new.

FAMILY

Gaver Farm Fall Fun Festival — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Gaver Farm, 5501 Detrick Rd, Mount Airy. 7-acre corn maze, giant slides, ropes courses and new bee line zip line. Farm animal petting area, free hay rides, lively chicken show, photo centers, pick-your-own pumpkins with 45 varieties, newly expanded apple orchard. Food includes apple cider donuts, cider slushies and more, farm market. See website for ticket prices. 301-865-3515. office@gaverfarm.com. gaverfarm.com.

Autumn Storytime with Author Mirka Hokkanen — 11 a.m. to noon at Dancing Bear Toys and Games, 15 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Celebrate all things fall with local author Mirka Hokkanen who will be leading a storytime and craft activity to promote the release of her two, autumn-themed books for kids: “Little Seasons: Autumn Leaves” and “How the Forest Feels.” After the reading and activity, Mirka will sign books. Copies of her books will be available for purchase at the event.  240-575-4496. curiousiguanaevents@gmail.com. curiousiguana.com/event/ mirka-hokkanen.

Read-a-Book Day at Baker Park — noon to 3:30 p.m. at Baker Park Bandshell, 21 N. Bentz St., Frederick. Celebrate National Read-A-Book Day in Baker Park!An afternoon filled with stories, imagination, and community fun with live readings from beloved and new books. Take home free books for children and youth. Meet acclaimed local and national authors, including Melinda Beatty, Alexandra Sharp, Michelyve Petit, Cherish McMillia-Kilgoe, and special guest Jason Reynolds, New York Times bestselling author and National Book Award finalist. Spanish Reading Hour with Centro Hispano from 2:30–3:30 p.m. 301-600-2066. info@frederickliteracy.org. www.frederickliteracy.org/events/ national-literacy-month.

Family STEAM Drop In — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Drop in for a hands-on STEM Lab or STEAM Lab opportunity. This program is designed for children in grades K-5 and their caregiver. 301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

FESTIVALS

Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg

Community Show — 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Catoctin High School, 14745 Sabillasville Road, Thurmont. Beef, Sheep, Swine and Market Goat Fitting & Showing/Show 9 a.m., pet show at 10:30 a.m. Petting zoo, farm animals, face painting, Elower-Sicilia

Production dance show at 1 p.m., Thurmont Academy of Self Defense martial arts demonstrations at 1:30 p.m. Thurmont Kountry Kitchen catered roast turkey and baked ham buffet 3-6:30 p.m. benefits the Community Show. The Noteables choral group from Homewood Retirement Center performance at 6:15 p.m. And beef, sheep, swine and market goat sale at 7 p.m. Library used book sale, historical local photos and memorabilia exhibits all weekend. Activities continue Sept. 7. Admission is free.

301-271-2104.

Annual Boonesborough Days — 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Shafer Park, Park Drive, Boonsboro. Sponsored by the Boonsboro Historical Society, Boonesborough Days is a 2-day festival devoted to showcasing handmade crafts. Browse through historic and picturesque Shafer Park and shop for handmade crafts, artworks and unique gifts. Demonstrations. Civil War display and artifacts, Tri State Astronomers, great food and more!  festival@boonsborohistoricalsociety.org. www.facebook.com/boonesboroughdays.

Thurmont Farmers Market — 9 a.m. to noon at Thurmont Community Park, 19 Frederick Road, Thurmont. Buy local. Buy fresh. Join us every Saturday for an exceptional variety of fresh local produce, fruit, local honey, locally raised meats, eggs, sauces, baked goods, flowers, and much more! Enjoy a great assortment of vendors and the largest farmers market in Frederick County. 240-741-2600. mlittle@thurmontstaff.com. thurmontmainstreet.com.

Afroflavor festival (new date) — 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Afroflavor Food Festival, 50 Carroll Creek Way, Frederick. Afroflavour, a leading initiative promoting African cuisine globally, and the Association of Nigerians in Frederick Maryland announce the 2nd edition of the festival with authentic African cuisine, music, dance and cultural performances, more. 570-540-6450. info@associationofnigerians.com. www.afroflavour.org.

Healing Minds with Music on the Farm — 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Green Meadows Petting Farm, 10102 Fingerboard Road, Ijamsville. Joining with Honoring Neighbors Foundation to present this fundraiser for Mental Health Awareness. The petting farm will open at 4 p.m. for guests to enjoy the farm and animals. There will be 3 bands performing with the first band starting at 5 p.m. Variety of food trucks. All ticketing proceeds go to NAMI (National Alliance for Mental Illness, Montgomery County Chapter). This event is rain or shine. $20 to $25, for ages 2 and older. 301-8659203. info@greenmeadowsevents.com. greenmeadowsevents.com/events/2025event-healing-minds-music.

FILM

“Loving John” Premiere and Gala — 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Dance Unlimited Studios at the Performing Arts Factory, 244 S. Jefferson St., Frederick. Join us for the Maryland Premiere of this deeply compassionate documentary profiling local running and fitness legend John Godinet, produced and directed by Peabody Award-winning filmmaker Robert Rooy. The evening is a celebration of the legacy John left in these communities and the Frederick area as a whole. Dinner, courtesy of Modern Asia Restaurant, and libations are included. $50. 301-471-1608. jlwlola1112@gmail.com. www.lovingjohnmovie.com/events.

GALLERY

Live Painting with Cathy Abramson — 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Vault of Visions Art Gallery,

1 N. Market St., Frederick. Watch art in action ... and maybe your presence will inspire her next move. Abramson’s paintings spotlight ordinary people and quotidian moments that can be easily overlooked. They also capture what lies just beneath the surface of a scene. This imbues her work with an element of mystery and invites viewers to construct their own narratives based on their own lived experiences, allowing them to make a personal connection with the paintings. 240-315-5483. emma@vovgallery.com. vovartgallery.com.

MUSIC

Everyday Everbody — 7 p.m. at FAC’s Sky Stage, 59 S. Carroll St., Frederick. DC-based band Everyday Everybody (fka AZTEC SUN) has been performing since 2012, producing an upbeat, retro groove steeped in ‘70s Funk and Soul, Jazz, Afro-funk and Motown-era pop. Beer/wine for 21+ with ID. $10 (under age 12 free). skystage@frederickartscouncil.org. frederickartscouncil.org/programs/ sky-stage/.

YYNOT: A Tribute to Rush — 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. YYNOT takes hungry RUSH fans on a welcome journey back in time. Their stellar musicianship consistently delivers a unique blend of unbeatable accuracy, high energy, and raw power with their vintage RUSH classics and a fresh new spark with their own original progressive rock.

$45.50, $35.50, $25.50. 301-600-2868. dyoung@cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org.

Sunday Sept. 7 CLASSES

Vibrations of Wellness: Exploring Sound Healing — 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Discover how the power of vibrations can restore balance, release stress and awaken inner harmony with Ayanna Gallant, M.ed. Owner of Aya Cultural Arts Studio. 18 and older. 301-600-8200. www.fcpl.org.

Greener Living Series: Gardening with Deer — 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Urbana Regional Library, 9020 Amelung St., Frederick. Are you a gardener who’s been frustrated by deer grazing in your garden? Join the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ Deer Project Leader, Kevin Lamp, to learn more about managing the Maryland deer population and mitigating deer impacts to your garden. Master Gardeners from the University of Maryland’s Master Gardening Extension Program, Deborah Portney and Karl Berger, will share additional tips and answer questions about gardening with the deer population in mind.

301-600-7000.

ETCETERA

Mount Airy Volunteer Fire Co. BBQ

Chicken Dinner — noon to 4 p.m. at Mount Airy Volunteer Fire Co. Fire Station, 702 N.

Main St., Mount Airy . Drive through the fire station parking lot off at the Main St. entrance. You won’t even need to get out of your car. Dinner includes: 1/2 BBQ vhicken, roll and two sides. Sides available are macaroni salad, potato salad, coleslaw or applesauce. Cash is preferred but we also take credit cards.

$15. 301-829-0100. www.mavfc.org.

Frederick Plant and Seed Swap — noon to 5 p.m. at Rockwell Brewery Riverside, 8411 Broadband Drive, Frederick. We will now be hosting Frederick Plant and Seed Swap on the first Sunday of every month. Swap plants, seeds, stories, advice, all while enjoying awesome craft beer. Chances to win prizes. Free to attend. Come swap or just browse.

301-372-4880. matt@rockwellbrewery.com.

Funeral Pre-Planning — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Planning your own funeral may not be easy, but deciding your funeral arrangements in advance can give peace of mind to your loved ones when the time comes. Learn why funeral pre-planning is helpful with the compassionate experts from Resthaven Funeral Home. 18 and older.

301-600-7250. fcpl.org.

LODI — 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Cactus Flats, 10026 Hansonville Road, Frederick. Country music.

FAMILY

Gaver Farm Fall Fun Festival — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Gaver Farm, 5501 Detrick Rd, Mount Airy. 7-acre corn maze, giant slides, ropes courses and new bee line zip line. Farm animal petting area, free hay rides, lively chicken show, photo centers, pick-your-own pumpkins with 45 varieties, newly expanded apple orchard. Food includes apple cider donuts, cider slushies and more, farm market. See website for ticket prices. 301-865-3515. office@gaverfarm.com. gaverfarm.com.

Song Circle with Frederick Acoustic Music Enterprise — 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Middletown Branch LIbrary, 31 E. Green St., Middletown. A song circle is a gathering of folks to make music together, to sing, play and share songs. Bring your own acoustic instrument. You can also just sing or listen. 301-600-7560. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

FESTIVALS

Annual Thurmont & Emmitsburg Community Show — 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Catoctin High School, 14745 Sabillasville Road, Thurmont. Dairy Goat Show at 9 a.m., Dairy Cattle Show 9:30 a.m., Decorated Animal Contest at 11 a.m. Kountry Kitchen catered broasted chicken and pulled pork barbecue buffet 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. benefits the Community Show, kids’ activities start at noon, log sawing contest 1 p.m., Robert Kaas horseshoe pitching contest 1 p.m., food vendors. Library used book sale, historical local photos and memorabilia exhibits all weekend. Admission is free. 301-271-2104.

Boonesborough Days — 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Shafer Park, Park Drive, Boonsboro. Sponsored by the Boonsboro Historical Society, Boonesborough Days is a 2-day festival devoted to showcasing handmade crafts. Browse through historic and picturesque Shafer Park and shop for handmade crafts, artworks and unique gifts. Demonstrations. Civil War display and artifacts, Tri State Astronomers, great food and more!  festival@boonsborohistoricalsociety.org. www.facebook.com/boonesboroughdays.

GALLERY

Reception for the Frederick Plein Air Artists — 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Links Bridge Vineyards, 8830 Old Links Bridge Road, Thurmont. A reception for the 11 artists involved in the “From Frederick County to Distant Shores” exhibit will be held in the Tasting Room of Links Bridge Vineyards. The artists are all very active and well known artists from the Frederick Plein Air Artists (GFAA): James Bricker, Margaret Huddy, Rebecca Jackson, Deborah Lovelace Richardson, Jane Knighton, Elayne Rogge, Paula Rubin-Wexler, Ann Schaefer, Bonnie Sydnor, Peggy Thompson, and Karen Winston-Levin. 301-602-5733. linksbridgeVineyards@gmail.com. linksbridgevineyards.com/pictures.

Monday Sept. 8 CLASSES

Sol Yoga — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Join us for this free yoga class offered by Sol Yoga.  Be sure to wear comfortable clothes. 21 and older. 301-600-8200. www.fcpl.org.

ETCETERA

Mondays in Mount Airy Weekly Food Truck Event — 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Railyard, 3 N. Main St. , Mount Airy. This community event is designed to support locally owned and operated food trucks as well as the businesses along Downtown Main Street. Continues Mondays through Sept. 29. 301-829-9660.

Press Paws! Therapy Dogs For Teens (ages 11-18) — 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Urbana Regional Library, 9020 Amelung St., Frederick. Teens: relax and relieve stress by spending time petting an adorable dog friend! Therapy dogs are provided by the Wags for Hope volunteers, whose pets bring comfort and joy to the lives of others. For grades 6-12. 301-600-7000.

FAMILY

Gaver Farm Fall Fun Festival — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Gaver Farm, 5501 Detrick Rd, Mount Airy. 7-acre corn maze, giant slides, ropes courses and new bee line zip line. Farm animal petting area, free hay rides, lively chicken show, photo centers, pick-your-own pumpkins with 45 varieties, newly expanded apple orchard. Food includes apple cider donuts, cider slushies and more, farm market. See website for ticket prices. 301-865-3515. office@gaverfarm.com. gaverfarm.com.

Baby Storytime — 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Songs, stories and play for babies and their grownups. Designed for up to age 24 months with a caregiver. Afterwards, we offer a “stay and play” for all to enjoy.  301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

MUSIC

Live Music Mondays: Alex Barnett — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Simple Theory Wine Co., 37 N. Market St., Suite 200, Frederick. We’re thrilled to welcome Alex Barnett, a talented classical guitarist from Baltimore to our space. Let his beautiful melodies set the tone for a relaxing and elegant evening of wine and music. Sip, savor, and unwind as Alex’s artistry brings the perfect soundtrack to your night. Free to attend, but reservations recommended! simpletheorywines.com/events.

POLITICS

Mount Airy Town Council Meeting — 7:30 p.m. at Mount Airy Town Hall, 110 S. Main St., Mount Airy. This meeting will be broadcast live on local Channel 23. It can also be viewed live at www.carrollmediacenter.org and on the Town’s Facebook page at facebook.com/TownofMountAiry. See website for most up-to-date agenda. 301-829-1424. town@mountairymd.gov. www.mountairymd.gov.

ETCETERA

Duplicate Bridge — noon to 4 p.m. at The Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration, 6909 Maryland Ave., Braddock Heights. Looking for a competitive mind sport? Frederick Bridge Club duplicate games allow you to hone your skills and meet other bridge enthusiasts. All are welcome; partner required. $8.00. 301-639-1009. brogan.liz@gmail.com. bridgewebs.com/frederick.

Tuesday Sept. 9

CLASSES

Club Crochet (ages 11-18) — 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Urbana Regional Library, 9020 Amelung St., Frederick. Get crocheting with the skilled ladies of the Woodlands! Whether you are a practiced hand or it’s your first time holding a hook, join us for community and skill-sharing. You can also try our alternative fiber art craft. All materials provided, while supplies last. For grades 6-12. 301-600-7000.

ETCETERA

Weekly Tuesday Night Bingo — 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at New Windsor Fire company , 101 High St., New Windsor. Weekly Tuesday Night Bingo. Doors open at 5 p.m. Games start at 7 p.m. Food and drinks available.

410-635-6373. d_pstrine@msn.com. nwfd10.org.

Night at the Museum — 5:30 p.m. to 6:30

p.m. at Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. From May to October, a monthly shindig featuring wine, cheese, and crackers (because priorities), plus some quality time with our staff and a sneak peek at a super special artifact that Curator Amy Hunt has pulled out just for you! It’s a VIP museum experience, minus the hefty price tag. 21 and older, pre-registration required. $20. Outreach@FrederickHistory.org. www.cognitoforms.com/HeritageFrederick1/NightAtTheMuseumTicketReservation.

Mid-Maryland Real Estate Investors

Meeting — 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Frederick County Assocation of Realtors, 490 Monocacy Blvd., Frederick. Brings together investors from across Frederick County and the surrounding areas to build something bigger than ourselves. Meets the second Tuesday of every month, and offers education and support for real estate investors of all experience levels. 240-820-2880. marco@porchswingfunding.com. maryland-rei.com.

Literature Night + Open Mic readings — 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at FAC’s Sky Stage, 59 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Member and invited guest readers by a variety of writer-group hosts, plus an open mic segment every second Tuesday May through October. No need to sign up to read your work.  301-662-4196. skystage@frederickartscouncil.org. frederickartscouncil.org/programs/ sky-stage.

FAMILY

Gaver Farm Fall Fun Festival — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Gaver Farm, 5501 Detrick Rd, Mount Airy. 7-acre corn maze, giant slides, ropes courses and new bee line zip line. Farm animal petting area, free hay rides, lively chicken show, photo centers, pickyour-own pumpkins with 45 varieties, newly expanded apple orchard. Food includes apple cider donuts, cider slushies and more, farm market. See website for ticket prices. 301-865-3515. office@gaverfarm.com. gaverfarm.com.

Preschool Storytime — 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Songs, stories, and fun for preschoolers and their grownups. Designed for ages 3-5 with a caregiver. 301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Get Ready for Kindergarten — 11:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Have fun exploring literacy, science, mathematics, and art through play-based activities that integrate essential school skills. Designed for ages 3-5 with a caregiver.  301-600-7200. bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Elementary Explorers: Space Adventure — 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 North Maple Avenue, Brunswick. Join us for a journey into space — the final frontier! We will have games, crafts, and activities to enjoy. This program

is for children in kindergarten through 5th grades (ages 5-10).

301-600-7250.

Wildlife Talk: There’s a Bear in my Backyard! — 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Middletown Branch Library, 31 E. Green St., Middletown. Join Jeff McAfee from the Department of Natural Resources as he informs and entertains us with first-hand, real-world experiences in managing and working with black bears in our community.  301-600-7560. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Night Owls — 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 East Moser Road, Thurmont. Storytime, pajama style!  Enjoy movement, music, and stories with the whole family.  PJ’s optional!  Designed for ages 0 and up with a caregiver. 301-600-7200.

bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

POLITICS

Affordable Housing Council Public Meeting — 2:30 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. at Frederick County Association of Realtors (FCAR), 490 Monocacy Blvd., Frederick. Residents are encouraged to attend the public meetings of this council if you have an interest in affordable housing. 301-606-3012. gabennett01@comcast.net.

RECREATION

Basketball: Senior Recreation Council — 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Walkersville Recreation Center (Elementary School), 83 Frederick St., Walkersville. Requires registration and $10 annual dues — see website. Enter through gym doors on the right side of the school. Meets November through May. $2. 301-514-5866. donpsherwood@gmail.com. srcfrederick.org.

Wednesday Sept. 10

CLASSES

Master Gardener Series: Shrubs and Trees — Pruning and Taking Cuttings — 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Frederick Community College, Conference Center, E125, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. Design a garden that fits your space and needs. In this series, we’ll discuss different topics that will help you plan, plant, and maintain a garden. Each session is a different topic. Join us for all of the topics or pick the topics most important to you. $16. 240-629-7985. LNStandifer@gmail.com. tinyurl.com/Pruning29173.

FAMILY

Gaver Farm Fall Fun Festival — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Gaver Farm, 5501 Detrick Rd, Mount Airy. 7-acre corn maze, giant slides, ropes courses and new bee line zip line. Farm animal petting area, free hay rides, lively chicken show, photo centers, pickyour-own pumpkins with 45 varieties, newly expanded apple orchard. Food includes apple cider donuts, cider slushies and more, farm market. See website for ticket prices.

301-865-3515. office@gaverfarm.com. gaverfarm.com.

Toddler Storytime — 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 East Moser Road, Thurmont. Songs, stories and fun for toddlers and their grownups. Designed for 2 year olds with a caregiver.

301-600-7200.

bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Tween Shrink Plastic — 3:45 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. at Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Create your very own shrink plastic keychain. Design and color your plastic and then watch as they transform into miniature works of art. Ages 9-13.

301-600-6329.

www.fcpl.org.

Offsite: Library Card Sign Up Month at Emmitsburg Neighborhood Meal — 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Vigilant Hose Company, 25 W. Main St., Emmitsburg. Make a library card! Check out books! Grab limited edition library swag!

301-600-6329.

www.fcpl.org.

Art-Ventures: Family Art Night — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Get creative and explore the world of art through hands-on projects and imaginative fun! Each session features a new artistic adventure designed for young artists to express themselves, try new techniques, and make something awesome. Designed for kids ages 5 and up. 301-600-7200.

bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

FESTIVALS

Mount Airy Farmers Market — 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Watkins Park, 615 Center St., Mount Airy. The opportunity to shop, buy and support local farms and businesses. Through Sept. 24. 301-829-1424. ggallucciwhite@mountairymd.gov. www.mountairymd.gov.

GALLERY

OneFrederick Collaborative — 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Serendipity Cafe, 37 N. Market St., Frederick. Every Wednesday morning to talk about keeping creativity alive and well in Frederick by finding more spaces for studios, rehearsals and performances, storage, and live-work places for artists and makers 301-606-6717. feinberg.alan2@gmail.com. onefrederickcollaborative.com.

MUSIC

Concerts on the Promenade — 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Westview Promenade, Buckeystown Pike and Crestwood Boulevard, Frederick. Special Delivery, rock ‘n’ roll. www.shopwestview.com.

Thursday Sept. 11

ETCETERA

Teen Time: Window Painting — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Come and decorate

BRUNSWICK

FARMERS' MARKET

Provide

the Teen Zone windows with fun fall art! This program is for teens in 6th through 12th grades (ages 11-18). 301-600-7250.

FAMILY

Musical Storytime — 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Music, movement and stories for the whole family. Designed for babies of all ages with a caregiver. 301-600-7200.

bbrannen@frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Family Fun: R.E.A.D. with WAGS for Hope — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300 S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Practice your reading skills with patient and adorable Reading Assistance Dogs (R.E.A.D.) from WAGS for Hope! For children grade K-5. 301-600-6329. cdillman@frederickcountymd.gov. www.fcpl.org.

Paws 2 Read with Go Team Therapy Dogs — 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Join Go Team Therapy Dogs to improve your reading confidence and make a new friend when you read aloud to a therapy dog. All ages. 301-600-8200. www.fcpl.org.

HEALTH

Ask a Dentist: Adult Adaptive Program

* Enchanted Coastal Maine Sept. 28 – Oct.3 Call for Details

* DUTCH APPLE DINNER THEATRE

OCT. 8. * Show “A Chorus LIne $129

Greendragon Farmers Market & Shady Maple Smorgasboard Oct. 10 $98

* DUTCH APPLE DINNER THEATRE Oct. 20 “ The Carpenters” $143

* SUNFEST, OCEAN City Oct. 22-24 Call for detail

Magic & Wonder *Winter Wonderland* Lancaster, Pa * Dec. 4 $141

AMERICAN MUSIC THEATRE

Dec. 5, 16 *Show Deck The Halls $127

— 10:15 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Learn more about dental hygiene! Ages 18 and older. 301-600-8200. www.fcpl.org.

MUSIC

Alive@Five: Crash the Limo — 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Carroll Creek Amphitheater, Frederick. Craft beverages and food available by local breweries, distilleries and food trucks. 21 and older, with ID. $6. 301-698-8118. downtownfrederick.org.

Live Jazz at the Cocktail Lab — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Tenth Ward Distilling Co., 55 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Get swanky with us every Thursday night for live jazz and your favorite craft cocktails. 21 and older. 301-360-5888. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. tenthwarddistilling.com.

RECREATION

Bicycling - Senior Recreation Council — 9 a.m. at Locations vary, . Requires $10 annual dues — see website. Meeting locations vary, depending on ride location — contact coordinator. 301-606-0064. myjamis1@gmail.com. srcfrederick.org.

ETCETERA

Duplicate Bridge — noon to 4 p.m. at The

HOLIDAY LIGHTS in COASTAL VIRGINIA BEACH Dec 11-14 Call for Details

DUTCH APPLE DINNER THEATRE Dec.17 * Show *Holiday Inn* $129

Wicked * Hippodrome Theatre* Baltimore, MD Dec.30 $187

COLLETTE 2026 TOURS

AZORES * APRIL16-28,2026

EXPLORING SOUTH AFRICA, VICTORIA FALLS, AND BOTSWANA* June 11-25,2026

ALASKA DISCOVERY LAND & CRUISE* August 12-23, 2026

ENCHANTING CHRISTMAS MARKETS * DECECMER 1-9, 2026

Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration , 6909 Maryland Ave., Braddock Heights . Looking for a competitive mind sport? Frederick Bridge Club duplicate games allow you to hone your skills and meet other bridge enthusiasts. All are welcome; partner required. $8.00. 301-639-1009. brogan.liz@gmail.com. bridgewebs.com/frederick.

Friday Sept. 12

CLASSES

Goat for the Soul, Goat Yoga: Unwind Time at the Farm — 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Goat for the Soul, 10209 Fountain School Road, Union Bridge. Kick-off your weekend with goat yoga! All ages welcome! If you are so inclined, please feel free to bring your favorite adult beverage.  Purchase tickets at https://goatforthesoul.com/ schedule-%26-registration. $27. 240-405-2208. christy@gvalleye.com. www.goatforthesoul.com.

ETCETERA

Meet & Greet with Dark Academia Author Lacey N. Dunham — 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Curious Iguana, 12 N. Market St., Frederick. Dunham is promoting her debut novel, “The Belles.” This dark, coming-of-age story centers on an exclusive clique that tests the boundaries in risky ways as they navigate their way through college in the 1950s. Copies of “The Belles” will be available for purchase at the signing. 18 and older. 240-575-4496. curiousiguanaevents@gmail.com. curiousiguana.com/event/ lacey-n-dunham.

Wynn’s Wacky Karaoke — 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at Cactus Flats, 10026 Hansonville Road, Frederick. Come out and show your talent.

MUSIC

Bluegrass Jam — 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Mount Pleasant Ruritan Club, 8101 Crum Road, Walkersville. Open to all levels of acoustic musicians and vocalists. Spectators welcome. Sandwiches, snacks and sodas available for purchase. $5 donation at the door requested.  301-788-5570. trevella@comcast.net. mtpleasantruritan.com.

F.A.M.E. Open Mic at Sky Stage — 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at FAC’s Sky Stage, 59 S. Carroll St., Frederick. FAME (Frederick Acoustic Music Enterprise) hosts every 2nd Friday from May-October, with extended hours from previous seasons to allow for more sign-ups! Come to listen, play or both. Whether you are a pro or a novice, this is a welcoming environment for you to collaborate, build your skills, and get to know local artists. Free to enter. Sign up with FAME prior to the event to participate as a performer (you don’t have to sign up to watch). Donations appreciated. 301-662-4190. skystage@frederickartscouncil.org. frederickacoustic.org.

Live Music at the Cocktail Lab — 8 p.m.

to 10 p.m. at Tenth Ward Distilling Co., 55 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Every Friday in the Cocktail Lab we’ll be servin’ up our deliciously wild concoctions and some sweet tunes to get your weekend started off right. 21 and older.

301-360-5888. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. tenthwarddistilling.com.

Saturday Sept. 13 CLASSES

Goat Yoga and Wine Tastings at Links Bridge Vineyard — 10 a.m. to noon at Links Bridge Vineyard, 8830 Old Links Bridge Road, Thurmont. Included with the Goat Yoga is a mimosa before class and a tasting of 7 wines after class (for our guests 21 years and older), for our younger guests: OJ and sparkling grape juice tastings. All ages welcome! Bring blankets and chairs to continue your fun with a picnic or purchase a charcuterie board.

$46. 240-405-2208. christy@gvalleye.com. goatforthesoul.com.

Freedom Bang Class — 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Freedom Bang is a pre-choreographed fusion of boxing, HIIT, hip hop, world dance, optional weighted gloves and just a touch of attitude. Offering a wide range of intensity options to help you customize your workout. 18 and older. 301-600-8200.

www.fcpl.org.

Seed Library: Cooking from the Garden — 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Middletown Branch Library, 31 E. Green St., Middletown. Join Joi Vogin LDN, MS, from the Frederick County Extension Office, to discuss how to turn your home garden’s herbs and produce into delicious and nutritious meals!

301-600-7560.

frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Conversation Class for English Language Learners — 10:30 a.m. to noon at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Adults who want to practice their English are welcome to a conversation class hosted by the Literacy Council of Frederick County. Participants will practice their speaking and listening skills with conversations guided by an instructor from the Literacy Council of Frederick County. 18 and older.

301-600-7250.

ETCETERA

Thurmont Main Street Plein Air - Paint the Town — 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Thurmont Main Street, Thurmont. Calling all artists for a spectacular event!! Spectators can spend the day exploring Thurmont while visiting the locations of artist are painting. 240-741-2600. mlittle@thurmontstaff.com. thurmontmainstreet.com.

Myersville Farmers Market — 9 a.m. to noon at Municipal parking lot, 301 Main St., Myersville. Saturdays through Oct. 25. myersvillefarmersmarket.com.

Frederick Apple Core — 10 a.m. to noon at Walkersville United Methodist Church, 22 Main St., Walkersville. A Macintosh User

Group, meets the second Saturday of each month. Follow Apple Logo signs. Users of Apple and similar products (MacBooks, iMacs, Mac Pro, iPhone, iPod, iPad, iWatch, etc.) are invited to attend. All ages. bobesposito@mac.com. frederickapple.org.

FAMILY

Kids Take Over the Kitchen Day — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Learn how you can join in the fun and create in the kitchen! This program is for children in grades K-5 (ages 5-10). 301-600-7250.

FESTIVALS

Thurmont Farmers Market — 9 a.m. to noon at Thurmont Community Park, 19 Frederick Road, Thurmont. Buy local. Buy fresh. Join us every Saturday for an exceptional variety of fresh local produce, fruit, local honey, locally raised meats, eggs, sauces, baked goods, flowers, and much more! Enjoy a great assortment of vendors and the LARGEST farmers market in Frederick County. 240-741-2600. mlittle@thurmontstaff.com. thurmontmainstreet.com.

The Maryland Wine Festival — 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Carroll County Farm Museum, 500 S. Center St., Westminster. Enthusiasts of local wine and fans of great local festivals are invited to enjoy the beautiful grounds of the Farm Museum while exploring delicious, local wine, shopping from juried artisans, and dancing to live music! $20-$75. simpletheorywines.com/events/ the-maryland-wine-festival.

SnallyFest 2025 — 12:30 p.m. to 11:55 p.m. at Baker Park Bandshell & Frederick Eagles Club, Frederick. Brain Dead Live! will be announcing another venue and more bands in the next few weeks. Line up includes Lung, Silent Old Mtns., Larval Organs, Edward!, Weed Coughin, Terance Auleta, Paper Lantrs, B4WE8 and many more. See website for full schedule. Free but donations accepted at Go Fund Me. braindead.live/calendar/snallyfest.

PERFORMER

Night of Comedy — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at FAC’s Sky Stage, 59 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Highwire Improv is hosting Sky Stage shows on Aug. 9 and Sept 13. Catch the spontaneous interactive comedy of the talented and hilarious improv troupes featured by Highwire, live under the stars. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. All-ages venue but parents, please be advised for the potential for PG 13+ improvisation. Beer/wine available for purchase with ID. $10. skystage@frederickartscouncil.org. frederickartscouncil.org/programs/ sky-stage.

Sunday Sept. 14

CLASSES

Goat for the Soul, Goat Yoga at the Farm — 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Goat for the

Soul, 10209 Fountain School Road, Union Bridge. Join us at the Farm for goats, yoga and fun! All ages welcome. $27. 240-405-2208. christy@gvalleye.com. goatforthesoul.com.

ETCETERA

Flea Market Fundraiser — 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Amvets Farm , 9602B Baltimore Road, Frederick. The Pulling for Veterans Flea market fundraiser! Attendance is free, only vendors pay a fee. 100 vendor spaces available, $30 per space. Rain or shine. Vendors provide their own set-up. Food trucks on-site. Set up 7 a.m.; market hours 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 240-285-4487. outreach@pullingforveterans.org. pullingforveterans.org.

Life of a Pawpaw — 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Join Master Gardener Kimberly Leahy as she talks about Maryland’s largest native fruit, the pawpaw! 21 and older. 301-600-8200. www.fcpl.org.

Legal Planning for Adults with Developmental Disabilities — 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Planning for the future when you have a special needs child or a dependent adult can be challenging. Corby Fowler from the Arc of Frederick County will answer your questions and provide an overview of Special Needs Trusts, Supported Decision Making, Advance Directives, Able Accounts, and Letters of Intent. 18 and older. 301-600-7250.

FAMILY

Gaver Farm Fall Fun Festival — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Gaver Farm, 5501 Detrick Rd, Mount Airy. 7-acre corn maze, giant slides, ropes courses and new bee line zip line. Farm animal petting area, free hay rides, lively chicken show, photo centers, pick-your-own pumpkins with 45 varieties, newly expanded apple orchard. Food includes apple cider donuts, cider slushies and more, farm market. See website for ticket prices. 301-865-3515. office@gaverfarm.com. gaverfarm.com.

Monday Sept. 15

ETCETERA

Mondays in Mount Airy Weekly Food Truck Event — 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Railyard, 3 N. Main St. , Mount Airy. This community event is designed to support locally owned and operated food trucks as well as the businesses along Downtown Main Street. Continues Mondays through Sept. 29. 301-829-9660.

FAMILY

Baby Storytime — 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Thurmont Regional Library, 76 E. Moser Road, Thurmont. Songs, stories and play for babies and their grownups. Designed for up to age 24 months with a caregiver. Afterwards, we offer a “stay and play” for all to enjoy.  301-600-7200. bbrannen@ frederickcountymd.gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

GODINET

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er this summer. She said the sobs from an audience who never met her friend served as a reminder of how moving the film is. For many in attendance on Sept. 6, the experience will be a much more personal one.

“The film is a real gift. How many people who’ve lost someone who was their best friend can have all this footage to go back to again and again? I’m so grateful for that,” Williams said. “I love watching it, but also it is hard to relive some of those moments for sure.”

In the end, Williams stayed with Godinet in a cot beside his hospital bed, moments she now treasures in his absence. While she recognizes that the experience of bearing witness to the suffering of a loved one can be a frightening prospect, she offers this word of encouragement to others facing the same ordeal: “Don’t be afraid. Be there for the person, because it’s good for the person who is leaving us, but it’s also a gift to you, as someone who loves that person so deeply. It’s a true gift to share the end of life with them.”

What would John Godinet think if he could glimpse the upcoming premiere?

“He’d be real happy,” says Dare.

family he was born into and the chosen family he collected along life’s journey. While grieving his absence, those who knew him carry the legacy of the things he taught them.

“What I learned through knowing John is that life is so beautiful and precious,” Williams said. “He made that so clear every day of his life. There’s always joy to be found.”

The beauty and value of life is something Rooy hopes Godinet can posthumously teach to film audiences that never met him, a lesson that can help cultivate a lens of empathy in a tumultuous world.

“This is just the value and the worth of one life,” Rooy said. “So please imagine that one life now transported to tens of thousands in another part of the world and understand that they all had deep, meaningful lives as well.”

“If John were alive,” Williams added, “he would be wearing a tuxedo to this event and he would be saying, ‘Roll out the red carpet’ — which we actual-

THURSDAY •7

ly intend to do. … John would have enjoyed being the star of the show.”

The film premiere acts as a family reunion of sorts — both the close-knit

Erin Jones is a freelance writer, former humanities teacher and owner of Galvanize & Grow Copywriting. She holds a BA in English from Hood College and an MA in English from the Bread Loaf School of English, through which she studied literature at Middlebury College and Oxford University. Learn more at erinjoneswriter.com, or follow her on Instagram @ErinJonesWriter.

Katie and Scott Millar

John Godinet points to a Rocky Mountain peak.

IN DOWNTOWN FREDERICK

Join us for First Saturday where you’ll find shopping, dining, gallery openings and special events throughout downtown. Whether you've lived here for years, or you're a first time visitor, First Saturdays are a great time to discover something new about our beautiful downtown.

Stick around for Sunday Artwalk from 12-4pm on September 7, for a self-guided galleries tour. downtownfrederick.org