72 HOURS Dec. 14. 2023

37TH ANNUAL

Tuesday, December 26, 2023 4–9pm Discover Downtown Frederick’s most celebrated houses of worship and enjoy special holiday music programs at this free self-guided event.

With Support from

BREWER’S ALLEY, EVEREDY SQUARE & SHAB ROW, ROY ROGERS, PLAMONDON HOSPITALITY PARTNERS, and VISIT FREDERICK

CHILLY RECEPTION: Christmas on the Potomac brings ICE!, Cirque and more to Gaylord National PAGE 12

Events brought to you by Visit Frederick.

(301) 600-4047 • www.visitfrederick.org

AUTHENTIC ITALIAN CUISINE AWARD-WINNING CRAB CAKES

Thank you for voting for us

IDEAL WINTER FARE: Pho 52 serves up authentic Vietnamese cuisine PAGE 5

Music ..........................................................6 Holidays..................................................9 Getaways...............................................10

BEST CRAB CAKE and BEST OVERALL RESTAURANT Submit a calendar listing for your

Art ..............................................................16

MAKE RESERVATIONS AT FRATELLISPASTA.COM 2 | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 72 HOURS

PAGE 10

Signature Dish ..........................................5

Cover story..............................................14

HAMPSTEAD: 2315 A Hanover Pike Hampstead, MD 21074 410-374-0909

Ocean City is worthwhile in the winter

INSIDE THIS WEEK

Family .......................................................12

MIDDLETOWN: 200 Middletown Pkwy Middletown, MD 21769 301-371-4000

AWESOME OFF-SEASON:

Film ............................................................ 18 Classifieds ............................................... 24 Calendar .................................................. 26

event 10 days prior to publication at newspost.com/calendar.

PUBLISHER Geordie Wilson EDITOR Lauren LaRocca llarocca@newspost.com REVENUE DIRECTOR Connie Hastings CALENDAR EDITOR Sue Guynn sguynn@newspost.com On the cover: Radio City Rockette Audrey Thelemann poses in Radio City Music Hall in New York City in 2019.

Scott Levy/MSG Entertainment fredericknewspost.com/72_hours

NEW DIRECTOR STARTS AT THE WEINBERG CENTER

The City of Frederick recently hired a new executive theater manager of the Weinberg Center, after John Healey retired in September after 17 years at the helm. Stephanie Chaiken began her new role on Nov. 27, and we extend a warm welcome to our city — and are excited to see how the Weinberg and its programming, along with that of New Spires Arts, will evolve under her leadership. Chaiken returns to her home state of Maryland after a career in the arts in New York and New Jersey, serving in roles at the community, regional and national levels.

PAUL TOOLEY WINS THE HOLIDAY ART COMPETITION

72 Hours extends a big congrats to Frederick artist Paul Tooley for his piece “Boats on the Creek,” which won this year’s Holiday Art Competition. The exhibition of entries can be seen at the Delaplaine Arts Center through Dec. 30 — a collection of holiday scenes by local artists that is always a treat. Tooley’s work will be used for promotional materials during the 2024 holiday season in Frederick.

FREDERICK COUNTY’S HOLIDAY TREE IS AT THE MARYLAND STATE HOUSE

Should you be in the Annapolis area this holiday season, stop by to see Maryland First Lady Dawn Moore’s Holiday Tree Display at the Maryland State House. One the trees in this festive exhibition was created by Frederick County garden club members to highlight our area’s local history. Shout out to the Frederick Garden Club, the Green-walled Garden Club and Tasker’s Chance Garden Club for putting our county on display in such a creative way.

ONE OF THE ROCKETTES HAILS FROM FREDERICK

Did you know one of the Radio City Rockettes is a Frederick native? Audrey Thelemann is in the midst of her 13th season with the world-renowned group, but she doesn’t forget her roots and can sometimes be found making summer appearances at 24/7 Dance Studio and Dance Unlimited to teach classes. We caught up with her recently to hear about what it’s been like performing with the Rockettes in New York City each year.

Meet Bob & Freddie. When it comes to local businesses, businesspeople and organizations in Frederick, they know best. Here is a personal interview with a 2023 Best of the Best winner or finalist about why they love what they do, helping those they serve and working in Frederick.

Law Office of Lena A. Clark

2023 WINNER FOR BEST LAW FIRM – ESTATE LAW 129 W. Patrick St, #11, Frederick 301-696-0567 • lenaclarklegal.com New law avoids Inheritance Tax for Domestic Partners.

On October 1, 2023, a new Maryland law went into effect regulating how couples may register as Domestic Partners and the information required in a Domestic Partnership Agreement. Senate Bill 792 (SB 792) extends significant protections and benefits to qualifying Domestic Partners navigating the complexities of dying without a Will.

Before October 1, Domestic Partners were essentially considered legal strangers, with no entitlement to inherit from their deceased partners unless explicitly named in a Will.

The law now empowers surviving partners of registered Domestic Partnerships with rights equivalent to those of spouses in intestate estates.

The expanded rights for Domestic Partners include the ability to inherit a portion or the entirety of the decedent’s assets. Furthermore, they can now qualify for the family allowance, a benefit previously reserved solely for surviving spouses. Another significant change is the priority of appointment to serve as the Personal Representative for their partner’s estate, granting them rights they were previously denied.

However, like any legal transformation, there are exceptions. While surviving spouses in Maryland have the option to claim up to half of the net estate if dissatisfied with their share under the deceased spouse’s will, registered

Domestic Partners do not enjoy the same privilege.

The most significant benefit of the new law however comes in the form of Inheritance Tax exemption. Maryland’s Inheritance Tax, a 1011% levy on inherited assets, historically had numerous exemptions, but Domestic Partners were not among them. Until the enactment of SB 792, Domestic Partners were only granted a limited exemption on the Inheritance Tax for a jointly owned primary residence.

The new law, however, brings about a major change. Surviving partners in registered Domestic Partnerships are now fully exempt from all Inheritance Taxes.

Although a Domestic Partnership Agreement is beneficial to a surviving partner, the Agreement does not replace the need or benefit of Estate Planning documents. Your Advance Medical Directive and Financial Power of Attorney will allow someone else, your Agent, to speak on your behalf, avoiding Guardianship proceedings in time of a crisis.

A Will allows you to specifically identify who will receive your assets when you are gone, who will handle your Estate, and who should act as Guardians of your children if they are minors when you pass away. A Revocable Living Trust has the additional benefit of helping your family and beneficiaries avoid the Probate process which can take a year or longer to complete and is costly.

If you need help protecting your money and loved ones in the event of death or disability, call us at 301-696-0567 or selfschedule online at lenaclarklegal.com. Sign up for our monthly newsletter: https:// join.industrynewsletters.com/signup/ LawOfficeofLenaClarkLLC

FREDERICK ROCK SCHOOL … ROCKS

We’re excited about some upcoming concerts at Olde Mother Brewing featuring a long roster of bands from Frederick Rock School. You can catch shows on Dec. 16 and 17 and see what these artists (of all ages) have been up to. You might just be blown away by the talent emanating from this school.

72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 3

An artful approach to sugar cookies

BY ALANA ALLRED The Washington Post

The idea for these cookies came from scrolling videos of people that make clay designs. My curiosity led me to wonder whether I could do the same thing with cookie dough. Could I dye dough, put it on more dough, roll it out and have it turn out? I love this dough because it mixes up quickly and requires little chill time. The dough can handle adding small amounts of gel food coloring, making it perfect for this technique. If you decide to make these cookies, make the shapes for your design smaller than you think you should, and be creative! For example, just one part of a cookie cutter might be what you need. The ears of a bunny cookie cutter can become petals for a flower. Here’s how to do a holiday lights scene. If you want something simpler, I also share how to make a simple geometric design with polka dots or other basic shapes.

•••

PATTERN SUGAR COOKIES

Make ahead: The decorated slab can be covered and refrigerated up to 1 day in advance. Freeze the unbaked cut cookies for up to 1 month, adding 1 to 3 minutes of bake time, or as needed.

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 1 month.

Where to buy: Hexagon cookie cutters and fondant or clay cutters can be found online and at baking supply stores.

For our holiday lights design, we used a small petal-shaped fondant cutter and AmeriColor soft gel paste food coloring.

Substitutions: Gluten-free? Use an all-purpose gluten-free flour blend, plus 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum. Vegan?

Use dairy-free butter, but refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour. If it gets too soft while working, refrigerate it for 10 minutes to firm up.

Note: If you want to make sandwich cookies, fill cooled cookies with your favorite buttercream. (Rerolled scraps also make for an ideal bottom of sandwich cookies.)

INGREDIENTS 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar 1 tablespoon finely grated orange or lemon zest (optional) 16 tablespoons (2 sticks/227 grams) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (110 grams) packed light brown sugar 1 large egg 2 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 teaspoon almond extract 2 teaspoons baking powder 3/4 teaspoon fine salt 3 1/2 cups (440 grams) all-purpose flour, plus more as needed 4|

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

|

72 HOURS

Photos by Tom McCorkle for The Washington Post

“Wires” made of strips of black cookie dough and “bulbs” made of multicolored cookie dough make a holiday light design. the sides and bottom of the bowl. Add the egg and vanilla and almond extracts, and continue to mix on medium-high until just combined, about 30 seconds.

Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl. Add the baking powder and salt and continue to mix on medium-high until well incorporated, about 1 minute.

Stop the mixer and add the flour. Start the mixer on low speed and slowly increase to medium once the flour begins to mix in. Mix until no streaks of flour reCookie cutters or different kitchen implements main, about 1 minute. If the dough looks dry, add the water or milk; the dough can be used to make the shapes. should stick together when squeezed 1 teaspoon milk (any kind) or water, as between your fingertips. needed Remove about one-fifth of the dough 2 to 6 food dyes of your choice, pref- (200 grams); transfer it to a bowl and erably gel food coloring (see Where to cover. buy) Place the remaining dough (about DIRECTIONS 800 grams) on a 12-by-16-inch piece of Make the base dough: Position a rack parchment paper, cover it with anothin the middle of the oven and preheat to er piece of parchment of the same size, 350 degrees. then roll the dough out into a 1/2-inchIn the bowl of a stand mixer fitted thick rectangle about 9 by 12 inches. This with the paddle attachment, or in a large is going to be your “canvas.” Leave the bowl if using a hand mixer, combine top sheet of parchment on and set the the granulated sugar and zest, if using, dough canvas aside. and mix on low speed until the sugar is Divide and color the dough: Now it’s moistened and the zest evenly distribut- time to dye the remaining 200 grams of ed. Add the butter and brown sugar and dough into the desired colors for your beat together on medium-high until light design. If you are using liquid, as opand fluffy, about 3 minutes. Scrape down posed to gel, food coloring, it is a good

idea to have a bit of flour on hand to sprinkle on your dough if it gets too sticky.

To make a holiday light design: Divide the dough into five 40-gram portions or four 50-gram portions — one for each color. For example, you can make your lights yellow, red, green and blue, and dye one portion black for the cord.

Or use yellow, red and blue for lights and green for the cord.

To make a simple geometric design: For a two-color design, divide the dough into 100-gram portions; for three-color, 66-gram portions; for four-color, 50-gram portions and so forth.

It’s important not to overmix the dough as you’re dyeing it, so avoid kneading. Instead, take one portion, make a small divot in the center and add a drop or two of food coloring. Fold the dough over to encapsulate the dye. Tear the dough in half and then stack the two pieces, squeezing them together. Repeat this process until the dye has been evenly incorporated. Every few tears, turn the dough a different direction to ensure you’re working the dye into all the dough. Repeat with the remaining dough portions.

Cut out the shapes: Once the dough is dyed, it’s time to cut the shapes you’ll (See COOKIES 27)

Pho 52 serves up authentic Vietnamese cuisine

P

ho 52 hasn’t been in Frederick for long, but it represents years of work by owner Tina Truong.

Truong’s husband, Leo Hagman, said Truong came to the United States from Vietnam about six and a half years ago.

The restaurant opened in September on Motter Avenue and offers classic, authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

Though its name pays homage to pho, a beloved, hearty dish made with bone broth, rice noodles and herbs, the restaurant chose another Vietnamese soup as its signature dish.

Bún bò Huế, a spicy and salty lemongrass soup, originates from Huế, a city in central Vietnam that was once the country’s capital.

The dish is associated with the cooking style of the old royal court, Hagman said.

“It’s a fabulous, warm soup in the wintertime,” Hagman said.

— Jillian Atelsek

Staff photos by Katina Zentz

Tina Truong owns Pho 52 in Frederick.

Pho 52’s signature dish is the Bún Bò Huế Dặc Biệt, a spicy lemongrass soup with beef and noodles. Here, it is served with beef shank, pig’s knuckle, pig blood curd, and pork sausage, and served with a side of cabbage, bean sprouts, jalapeño, chili oil and shrimp paste sauce.

701 Motter Ave., Frederick 240-575-9479 Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday; closed Wednesday Prices: Appetizers start at $5; entrees range from $10 to $17 Owner Tina Truong recommends: The Bún

Staff photos by Katina Zentz

FAJITA GRANDE G Mexican Restaurant

Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 3-6pm 301-698-8989

www.fajitagrande.com Open Mon-Sun 11am-9pm

bò Hue, a popular spicy and salty Vietnamese soup made with lemongrass. The soup comes in several varieties, each with different combinations of meat, but Truong recommends the Dac Biet, which means “special” in Vietnamese. The Bún bò Hue Dac Biet features sliced beef shank, pig knuckle, pig blood curd and pork sausage. It’s served with banana flowers, cabbage, bean sprouts, jalapeno, lime and shrimp paste sauce.

Pho 52

10% OFF ALL GIFT CERTIFICATES

Lunch & Dinner Entrée

ORDER FROM SUNDAY

DOORDASH AND GRUBHUB AND GET

20% OFF 20% OFF CARRY-OUT

Exp. 12/31/23

MONDAY

DRAFT BEER CASA MARGARITA

1

$

valid Dec 17, 24, and 31 only, limit 1

1

$

valid Dec 18 and Jan 1 only, limit 1

Limited time only. Price Subject to change. Not valid on holidays or special days. Frederick location only.

HOLIDAY SPECIAL Buy One Get One FREE Dine in only. One per table.

Valid Monday-Friday. $10 Max Value. Not valid with any other offer.

Expiration date: 12/31/23

72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 5

MUSIC

Frederick Rock School founder looks back at the year’s highlights and ahead to shows at Olde Mother and a school expansion

BY COLIN MCGUIRE

It’s about the same. To have that many bands, it’s crazy.

Are these the most you’ve had?

As founder of the Frederick For sure, yeah.

Rock School, Scott Marceron knows I gotta ask, then: We’re at the something about the importance end of 2023. How did the year pan of bringing a community together out for the school?

— especially around the holidays.

It’s been great. We’re growing As such, his school will stage two — growing with Frederick. We’re showcase concerts from 12:30 expanding our facility right next door to 7 p.m. Dec. 16 and 17 at Olde to our existing space. That will be Mother Brewing in downtown open Jan. 1. We needed more space, Frederick. The shows will follow a so when it came available, I jumped concert the school organized at the on it. We’ll be adding five rooms same place on Dec. 3. We recently for lessons and band rehearsals. It’s caught up with Marceron to talk exciting. about the evolution of his business, Do you have any bands right getting the school’s bands on shows now that are kind of in that space around town, what’s on tap for 2024 where Bad Seed Rising was in and a heart-warming memory he before? Anyone talking to labels shared with a student earlier this or doing original stuff? month.

We do. We have a handful of How did the show go on Dec. 3? them. I would say we have five or six It was great. It was packed. I think bands that are doing nothing but we had about 27 bands play. original music at the school right How does that stack up to now. They’re playing out, playing allthe upcoming weekend at Olde original shows. One band is called Mother?

Black Locust, and they’re playing all Special to The News-Post

Jade is Blu King and Sean Johnson.

6 | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 72 HOURS

around the DMV and a little bit out of that, too. They’re shooting music videos, all that stuff.

Are they talking to labels?

That’s coming. It’s getting there.

It’s not quite there, but it’s getting there.

How about adult bands? They’ll be playing at these upcoming shows, too, right?

Yeah, we still have adult bands playing. A big part of our adult band program is they go out and start gigging. We have a band called Generations Apart that plays out.

Also Rated R and Industry Lane.

A young adult band called Milk Mountain plays Bushwaller’s and packs the place. They’re all Rock School students, and I have them booked there all next year, playing every six weeks or so. People wait outside to get in and see those guys play.

Doing the shows at Olde Mother, they sound like really long days for you.

Yeah, I walked out of there fried the last time. But what a great venue.

I can’t say enough about Olde Mother. Nick [Wilson, co-owner] is incredible to deal with. It’s just a great vibe in there. We love the stage. Having Fifty/Fifty Burger in there is a game changer, especially when we do shows there. It’s family and friends — high school, middle school friends — and they all eat, hang out, and it makes for a really great day.

It’s the holiday season. Is the work you do at the school a little more poignant around this time of year? Seeing kids up there playing, feeling the good will, do things mean more?

Oh, it’s awesome. There’s nothing better. We had a really cool moment the other day. We teach kids of all levels and we have a special needs student. He’s been with me for years, and he comes in and loves to sing and dance. It’s the highlight of his Courtesy photo week to come in and practice. He got up and actually performed this time, and the place erupted. His dad

came over with tears in his eyes, saying it was the best thing that ever happened to him, and he gave me the biggest hug and he made me cry. It was two big dudes hugging each other and crying [laughs]. It was definitely a moment. That’s why we wanted to start the school — stuff like that. We welcome everyone into our place, and it’s moments like that that really bring it home.

What are some of the goals for next year?

We’re expanding, and we’re actively looking to open up other locations, both in and out of Maryland.

Do you have a favorite memory of 2023? Anything that sticks out at the school?

It’s tough to say, because every day is just awesome. You deal with the day-to-day stuff that’s mundane.

Scheduling and all that kind of stuff is a grind, but walking into that place every day and feeling the vibe, the sense of community and the talent

David Trozzo

Encore Creativity for Older Adults is open to those who share the love of singing.

Encore Creativity for Older Adults presents winter concerts Courtesy photo

Neon Flux is Jason Foster, Arianna Hankey, Alex Frango, Cade Suddith and Luna Daquino. and what everybody buys into — it’s a thing. It’s special, man.

I feel it every day when I roll in there. On the worst days, when you aren’t having a good day personally, you walk in there and it’s like a light switch goes off.

From kids to adults just jamming and releasing … if they’re having a bad day, they aren’t having a bad day during their time at the school.

That makes it all worth it, doesn’t it?

It really does. The icing on the cake is these shows. I just sit back in awe. There’s a metal rock band of 12- and 14-year-olds at the school called Extermination that blew the roof off the place.

People were going crazy. They were ripping these songs, and they had the audience in their hands. It was just really pretty

cool. It’s crazy how good the kids in these bands are. I’m just amazed. I go in and see every band every week, but I’m not in there for each band’s full rehearsal, so these shows are the hard work the kids put in and the work the band director does, the instructors do — kudos to everybody involved. Everyone works really hard at this stuff.

Colin McGuire has been in and out of bands for more than 20 years and also helps produce concerts in and around Frederick. His work has appeared in Alternative Press magazine, PopMatters and 72 Hours, among other outlets. He is convinced that the difference between being in a band and being in a romantic relationship is less than minimal.

Contact him at mcguire.colin@ gmail.com.

The Encore Chorale of Frederick will perform its winter concert at 4 p.m. Dec. 17 at Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Frederick, 4880 Elmer Derr Road Frederick. The concert is part of Encore Creativity’s concert season this December, with free performances across the nation by local ensembles.

The Encore Chorale of Frederick, joined by the Encore Chorale of Asbury Methodist Village, will sing holiday favorites both classic and modern, from Victor C. Johnson’s “Stars Shall I Find” to Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus” from Messiah. The concert, led by celebrated conductor Deb Int Veldt, will set the spirit of the holidays in motion and bring joy to end-of-year celebrations.

For those interested in joining the show, registration for Encore Creativity’s spring rehearsals is open. The rehearsals will begin Jan. 11 and meet at Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Frederick from 10:30 a.m. to noon. For more information on registration, including spring repertoire, tuition and scholarship information, visit Encore Creativity’s website.

Encore Creativity’s concert season will culminate with a performance at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., as a part of the Millennium Stage series. The performance will bring Encore singers from across the country together for a concert to celebrate a year of wellness, creativity and fun for older adults. In 2022, Encore’s annual Kennedy Center performance was held to great acclaim with over 400 Encore singers from across the nation in attendance. The performance was reflective of Encore Creativity’s 16-year history, with singers of all ensembles led by distinguished conductors to build community through singing.

Admission to all concerts is free, but there is a pay-what-you-wish option for those who wish to give back and support the nonprofit’s guiding mission of creating meaningful arts experiences supporting lifelong learning, wellness and fun for all older adults.

Tickets are required. For details, go to encorecreativity.org/tickets.

72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 7

GIVE THE GIFT OF LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!

TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT WEINBERGCENTER.ORG 301.600.2828 • 20 W PATRICK ST, FREDERICK, MD 21701

1964 THE TRIBUTE

SCYTHIAN

SATURDAY, JAN 13 • 8:00 PM

FRIDAY, FEB 16 • 8:00 PM

TICKETS MAKE

GREAT GIFTS!

BUCKETS N BOARDS: COMEDY PERCUSSION SHOW

JESSE COOK TUESDAY, JAN 23 • 7:30 PM

WEDNESDAY, FEB 21 • 6:00 PM

ANIMANIACS IN CONCERT

MNOZIL BRASS: JUBILEE

STARRING ROB PAULSEN, MAURICE LAMARCHE AND RANDY ROGEL

THURSDAY, FEB 22 • 7:30 PM

SATURDAY, MAR 23 • 8:00 PM

TEELIN IRISH DANCE: CELTIC JOURNEY SATURDAY, MAR 16 • 7:00 PM 8 | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 72 HOURS

STEP AFRIKA! FRIDAY, APRIL 26 • 8:00 PM

HOLIDAYS

Holiday tree at the Maryland State House puts Frederick County’s German heritage on display

BY ERIK ANDERSON

Special to The News-Post

Frederick County’s German heritage is on full display in the form of a holiday tree at the Maryland State House in Annapolis through the end of the month.

The tree is part of Maryland First Lady Dawn Moore’s Holiday Tree Display Exhibit. Each year, the First Lady of Maryland invites members of the Federated Garden Clubs of Maryland to decorate holiday trees representing their respective counties. Frederick County’s tree is decorated by a joint committee consisting of the Frederick Garden Club, Green-walled Garden Club and Tasker’s Chance Garden Club.

“For us as Frederick County to be included is an honor,” said Patricia Louison, a Green-walled Garden Club member who helped set up the 6-foot tall faux tree. “So we take it very seriously.”

Shelley Johnson, the FGCMD District V director, said in the past several years, local garden clubs have chosen to decorate Frederick County’s tree to reflect present-day attributes of the county, such as last year’s focus on local agriculture.

“This year, we wanted to go back in history a bit more and draw on the idea of where many settlers in the area came from,” she wrote in an email.

According to the website for Schifferstadt Architectural Museum, the earliest immigration from Germany to Frederick County is believed to be 1736, when the Brunner family settled here.

“In the 1800s, there was even a Frederick German language newspaper,” Johnson added.

She said German settlers brought many talents to the area, including paper cutting, woodcrafts and decorative painting. Many of these elements are represented on this year’s tree, which features a wide variety of paper crafts inspired by the county’s German settlers.

The paper crafts also help the Frederick County tree fit this year’s statewide FGCMD challenge to decorate the trees in the exhibit with ornaments made from recycled materials, a practice that Johnson says is in keeping with historical Christmas traditions.

“In the 1800s, paper crafts were a significant aspect of holiday decorating because paper was inexpensive and/ or could be found in most households,” she explained in an email. “Even then,

Staff photos by Katina Zentz

Christmas ornaments, made by Cheryl Thomas and garden clubs of Frederick County, show off local history.

Courtesy photo

Joe Andrucyk

Sheet music rosettes for the holiday tree.

Frederick County’s holiday tree at the Maryland State House.

the settlers used their resources wisely, perhaps using discarded books or [sheet] music as a paper source for decorations.”

The decorations this year include little paper putz houses, tussie-mussies made from vintage sheet music and dried hydrangeas, and sheet music rosettes. Pictures of popular Frederick County sites by local photographer Michele Corr adorn the centers of the rosettes. The photos include views of the Catoctin Mountains, Carroll Creek, public art in downtown Frederick, and fruit orchards.

“Originally, putz houses were made from cardboard, and German Americans put the houses under the tree,” Johnson wrote. “They created Christmas villages with the ones they saved from year to year.”

The Frederick County tree is positioned in a choice location, right near

the entrance of the Senate Chamber.

Louison enjoyed seeing how Maryland’s other counties decorated their trees at the state house with recycled items this year. A garden club in Washington County included bicycle parts in their display to represent biking along the C&O Canal.

“The trees are gorgeous, and this year, it was quite interesting to see how people designed recyclables,” she said.

“I’m not artistic, so I was just absolutely impressed.”

Johnson said using sustainable tree decorations is part of a broader effort of sustainability for District V of FGCMD, which includes garden clubs from Garrett, Allegheny, Washington, Carroll, Howard and Frederick counties. The district’s theme is “Connect, Create, Conserve.”

“The district is sponsoring a bit of a contest among the 16 clubs [in District V] in a program initiated by our Civic

Improvement chair, Patty Kettlestrings,” Johnson wrote. “The program is called, ‘Got Nectar?’ It encourages clubs to plant bulbs or native plants that will support pollinators in the early spring, prior to when the majority of blooming plants are available for food, or late fall, after the majority of blooming plants are gone.”

She said the Green-walled Garden Club, which manages gardens for the Catoctin Furnace Historical Society, as well as a garden on Sixth Street in downtown Frederick, is testing several eco-friendly products to encourage their members to engage in better habits regarding their use of sustainable packaging.

The Holiday Tree Display Exhibit is free of charge and is open to the public through Dec. 31. The exhibit will be closed on Dec. 25, Christmas Day. The Maryland State House is at 100 State Circle in Annapolis.

72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 9

GETAWAYS

Going downee ocean, hon

Ocean City in the winter

BY GARY BENNETT

tine’s Day and the long President’s Day weekend.

Ask a Marylander where they’re going this summer, and chances are you’ll hear the typical “Merlin” response, “downee ocean, hon!” (Translation: Down to the ocean, my friend.)

Of course, when you go to the ocean in Maryland, you’re going to just one place: Maryland’s iconic beach resort, Ocean City.

But let’s face it, Ocean City in the summer is not for everyone. It can be loud and obnoxious. I know it can be an acquired taste for many, including myself. But, as with, say, a stern mother-in-law, if you can give yourself a chance to know and love her, you’ll be repaid many times over.

There’s good news for people like us: We can fall in love with Ocean City all over again in the winter. It’s really the perfect antidote to the winter blues. So, if you haven’t tried Ocean City with a chill in the air, you’re in for a treat. A calm, quiet treat.

RESTAURANTS

Special to The News-Post

CITY SIZE

In the off-season, Ocean City returns to being a small village of about 7,000 residents, down from about 320,000 in the summer. This is about the size of Walkersville! With so few people and so much land and infrastructure, you’ll have plenty of room to spread out and relax.

OPEN FOR BUSINESS

Be advised: Ocean City is open in the winter. Not everything, of course, but everything that matters.

You’ll still have the iconic boardwalk paralleling the Atlantic Ocean from First to 27th Street. You’ll still have about 10 miles of sandy beaches to explore. You’ll still have beautiful sunrises over the ocean and sunsets over the bay.

Many of the smaller restaurants on the boardwalk are closed in the winter, but don’t despair. Food options are plentiful year-round for locals and brave tourists. I recommend Harborside Bar and Grill, which reopens Dec. 15, for burgers and comfort food, in West Ocean City. Fager’s Island is a fine upscale restaurant worth visiting in North Ocean City. Other local favorites are Marlin Moon, Palm, Coral Reef, Captain’s Table and The Restaurant at Lighthouse Sound.

DOGS AND BIKES

If you have dogs and want to bring them along, the offseason (Oct. 1 to April 30) is for you. Dogs are allowed on the beach anytime. You’ll have ample room to throw that frisbee or play ball. For a little green space, head up to 94th Street for the Dog Playground.

It comes complete with a doggie pool, a small dog area and covered seating with plenty of benches. You’ll need to register your dogs in person at Northside Park on 125th Street or online at oceancitymd.gov/rec. Passes Photo courtesy of Gary Bennett are $10 for one day and $20 for three days.

The beaches are calm and empty at Ocean City in the winter.

On those relatively warm winter days that are become increasingly norname a few.

When you bundle up for a brisk mal, head out by boat to the sandwalk on the smooth, wooden-planked bar just north of Hooper’s Crab House boardwalk in the winter, you’ll have HOTELS where you’ll likely see plenty of dogs plenty of room to watch the crashNot all hotels are open in the winfrolicking in the shallow water. ing waves without crashing into fellow ter, but you should have no trouble Bring your bike, too. Bikes are also tourists. Believe it or not, fires are also finding perfectly acceptable oceanallowed on the boardwalk at any time allowed on the beach, with a permit. front properties to unwind and gaze in the winter. The same goes for rollMost of the familiar boardwalk haunts will be open at least for limited upon the waves. Most will have indoor erblades, scooters and other self-prohours in the winter. I’ve frequented all pools, too. The name-brand hotels are pelled and small engine apparatuses. your best bet in the winter. Also, be Rentals will be hard to find, so bring these in the winter myself: Thrasher’s French Fries, Wockenfuss Candy, Fish- sure to search out local favorites Caryour own. Up and down the boardwalk ousel and Princess Royale. They and er’s Popcorn, The Dough Roller, M.R. from start to finish is a perfect 5-mile Ducks and Purple Moose Saloon, to others will feature specials for Valencircuit.

PANAMA CANAL GROUPS | LAND TOURS RIVER CRUISES | CRUISES 10 | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 72 HOURS

BARB CLINE TRAVEL 240-575-5966 barbclinetravel.com

Seacrets, Fager’s Island and Pier 23 are open and inviting places to sample local beers and cocktails.

And speaking of local cocktails, don’t forget to sample Ocean City’s own original Orange Crush at just about any bar in town. I heartily recommend you go to the source of this concoction at Harborside Bar and Grill in West Ocean City, where you can also have the best burger in town.

Be forewarned, it is the quintessential biker and dive bar.

FISHING

The typical fishing season in Ocean City is May through October, so you may not be able to charter an excursion during the off-season, but you can do some ocean, bay, surf or pier fishing on your own any time of year. A valid fishing license for the Atlantic Ocean and coastal bays is required.

Ocean City bills itself as the “white marlin capital of the world,” but several other species are plentiful and in season at any time of year, including American eel, black drum, black sea bass, bluefish, croaker, grouper, mahimahi, red drum, Spanish mackerel, spotted seatrout, flounder, wahoo, and weakfish.

OCEAN CITY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

For a more genteel evening, head over to the Ocean City Performing Arts Center. Located inside the Roland E. Powell Convention Center at 4001 Coastal Highway, the center provides local, regional and national musical acts, plays and a variety of off-Broadway shows.

The venue is similar to our Weinberg Center, with a 1,200-seat auditorium, two tiers of fixed seating and a concession area. During the offseason, they specialize in orchestral shows, stand-up comedians and tribute shows.

INDOOR MINI GOLF AND ICE SKATING

Old Pro Golf has an undercover course at 68th Street called, appropriately, Undersea Adventure.

There’s no better way to while away a couple hours putt-putting your way in total warmth through whales’ mouths and windmills and up and down long hills and curves.

The beautiful oceanfront Carousel Hotel at 118th Street has an indoor ice-skating rink open to the public.

Between October and May, you can reserve the rink for two-hour time slots for $125 — perfect for a getaway birthday party.

OCEAN CITY LIFE-SAVING MUSEUM

Near the end of the boardwalk at the inlet is the Ocean City Life-Saving Museum. There, you’ll find exhibits of the great storms that have battered Ocean City over the years, sea life, shipwreck finds, mermaids and how life-saving is performed in Ocean City.

WINTERFEST OF LIGHTS

If you go between Nov. 17 and Dec. 31, you can enjoy Winterfest of Lights, a mammoth display of holiday lights you can stroll or ride through on a handy tram in 58-acre Northside Park.

The animated light displays include a 50-foot tree, flying reindeer and hot chocolate and photos with Santa. This is a much larger display than anything available in Frederick. It’s on par, scalewise, with the large Christmas lights display in Olney but at a fraction of the cost. The price per person to go through the Olney display: $39. Ocean City’s Winterfest: $6.

ASSATEAGUE ISLAND

You can head a little south of Ocean City for a beautiful escape to Assateague Island. The island itself is 37 miles long and spans Maryland and Virginia. You’ll want to stop at Assateague Island State Park, which has two miles of pristine beach. The nearby marshes are the homes for hundreds of species of wildlife you can spot in the off season, including the famous wild horses. The 100 or so horses roam free and make for great photos. But keep your distance.

They are wild animals, after all. The

Photo courtesy of Gary Bennett

Dogs love Ocean City in the winter.

Assateague Island National Seashore Visitor Center offers interesting exhibits including marine aquariums, touch tanks and a film about the wild horses.

PUBLIC PARKS

Ocean City is home to several public parks and recreational areas.

Some of my favorites include Inlet Park, which is at the southernmost tip of the boardwalk and features great views of the Atlantic and Ocean City’s official time capsule. Northside Park at 125th Street offers 58 acres of hiking trails, a playground, fishing lagoon, picnic areas and an indoor gymnasium. Sunset Park has a bayside promenade with fantastic views of the bay and Assateague. The Downtown Recreation Complex has basketball courts, a skate park, two tennis courts, a playground and an area for bay fishing.

OUTLET MALL IN WEST OCEAN CITY

You can easily spend an entire day at the Outlet Mall in “West O,” as the locals call it. Over 30 outlet shops feature discounts on apparel, footwear, jewelry, handbags, kid’s clothing and eats.

BERLIN

The historic town of Berlin is only 8 miles west of Ocean City and well worth a visit. Like Frederick, it has been designated an arts and entertainment district. Its downtown has over 60 retail shops, restaurants, art galleries and music venues. You can explore Berlin’s rich history at Taylor House Museum.

SALISBURY

Salisbury is an easy 30-minute car ride to the west. You won’t want to The Country House, “the largest FOX GOLD COAST THEATER miss country store in the East,” as it is You can kick back and relax in billed. It’s located at 805 E. Main St. heated recliners and catch the latest and is quite impressive, with 16,000 movie you can’t seem to find the time square feet of gifts, antiques, home to enjoy in Frederick. The theater is décor, linens, florals, baskets, jewelry, on Coastal Highway at 113th Street food items and seasonal items. behind the Goad Coast Mall.

Gary Bennett is a longtime Frederick resident who spends his BAR SCENE time hiking, biking, volunteering and If hitting the bars is more your providing childcare for grandchildren. style, Ocean City naps a bit in the He is married and retired from his winter but certainly doesn’t hibernate. career as a nonprofit marketing Local favorites like Brass Balls Saloon, executive.

72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 11

FAMILY

Christmas on the Potomac brings ICE!, Cirque and more to Gaylord National

BY GINA GALLUCCI-WHITE Special to The News-Post

When putting together a list of places to attend for the holidays, many folks want to include locations that offer a variety of activities that everyone can enjoy.

With ice skating, visits from Santa, an ice sculpture show, Cirque-style acrobatic performance and more, the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center’s annual Christmas on the Potomac event has something that will even make the Scrooges in your group smile.

From now through Dec. 31, folks can pick and chose which activities to partake in. Some are free, and others come with a fee.

“There is so much to see and do,” said Jennifer Cerasani, Gaylord National’s director of marketing. “You will find something for everyone. Whether it is just walking and enjoying and taking pictures of all the beautiful decorations, or a need for speed in going down our snow tubing. If you are looking for a Broadway-style show, our Cirque experience is absolutely breathtaking. There is really something for everyone.”

The signature and most popular event is ICE!, which features more than 2 million pounds of ice meticulously carved into a different theme each year. This year’s features a number of scenes from the classic 1964 stop-motion animation TV special “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.”

The scenes include a selfie station with the Abominable Snowman, Rudolph leading Santa’s sleigh, Rudolph with friends Yukon Cornelius and Hermey, and a spot where you can light up Rudolph’s nose.

Each section is made with more than 6,000 blocks of ice and took artisan carvers 30 to 40 days to create.

This includes building the large structures and adding the fine details to each piece.

Probably the most popular scene is the Island of Misfit Toys, where those young and young at heart can careen down slides made out of ice surrounded by frozen sculptures of the forgotten toys.

“It is colorful. It is visual. It is a theme that appeals to everyone,” Cerasani said.

Cerasani called building the ice 12 | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 72 HOURS

sculptures a labor of love, as some of the artisans stay the entire show to fine-tune the sculptures. “We want to make sure that every guest, whether you come on the first day or the 42nd day, sees the same beautiful bright, fine detail quality of our ice sculptures,” she said.

This year, the Gaylord has also brought back the carver showcase, in which guests can watch some of the artisans carving and creating, including replacing parts of a scene. “It is a really great opportunity to see firsthand the artistry and see the process of what the artisans do,” Cerasani said.

Because Rudolph faces bullying for his nose, Gaylord National has partnered with the Girls and Boys Club of Maryland on a #ShineBright Wall of Kindness, where participants can embrace their differences and discuss how they spread kindness.

“Rudolph was a little reindeer who was different from everyone else, and he learned to embrace his difference, and in the end, he helped save Christmas,” Cerasani said. For every ticket sold on the first four Tuesdays of the event, the hotel will donate a $1 toward the nonprofit.

For the first time this year, the Gaylord will offer several dates for those with sensory sensitivity. On Dec. 12 and 13 during designated times, the attractions will be modified, including music and lights turned down. “I am

Courtesy photo

a large tube. There is Snowball Build and Blast, which asks guests to craft snowballs to throw at targets. There is also a light show in the atrium, a Reindeer Games scavenger hunt and The Greatest Story stage show, where the birth of Jesus is told through song.

If you are attending the ICE! portion of the festivities, participants are loaned a blue parka to wear inside the event. The temperature is kept at a balmy 9 degrees, so be sure to dress warmly, including wearing a hat and gloves.

Cellphone batteries drain fast in the cold, so don’t carry your phone in your hand while you look at the exhibit. Put the device in your pocket when not taking pictures.

“I just enjoy seeing people happy,” Cerasani said. “It sounds corny, but you see people come together. You see the excitement on the kid’s face when they see Santa or when it starts to snow in the atrium. That’s why I do this. I’ve been here over 15 years. I do it because it is so wonderful when you see people come together. It makes it all worthwhile.”

Gina Gallucci-White is a freelance writer based in the Frederick area. Her bylines have appeared in a number of publications, including USA Today’s 10Best, the Maryland Daily Record and Northern Virginia Magazine. She worked for The Frederick News-Post from 2004 to 2010 as a police and fire Courtesy photo and rescue reporter.

very excited that we can offer this (experience) this year,” Cerasani said. “It is truly making Christmas for everyone.”

For the second year, as a way to promote more inclusivity, the Gaylord will also have an American Sign Language Santa on Dec. 13 from noon to 8 p.m. “It is amazing to watch the kids be able to communicate with Santa in their own language,” Cerasani said.

Christmas on the Potomac also includes Snow Flow Mountain, where guests can careen down an ice hill on

Kid-friendly events to get to this week

Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum is near where the original Western Maryland The Festival of Lights will be held at Hagerstown Roundhouse Complex was 7 p.m. Dec. 15 in the courtyard at City Hall, built in 1912. There the roundhouse and 101 N. Court St., Frederick. shops were the literal hub where locoThis community tradition is open to evmotives and railroad cars would be maineryone and features music by the Fredtained and repaired. erick Children’s Chorus, directed by Judy “Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum’s DuBose.

Trains of Christmas celebrates HagerThe event also includes holiday carolstown’s history while also being a favoring and a moving candle lighting ceremoite holiday tradition for families,” said Dan ny that will fill the courtyard with hundreds Spedden, executive director of Hagerof points of light. stown-Washington County Convention & For more information, call 301-600Visitors.

2841, or visit celebratefrederick.com.

For 50 years, the railroad industry Staff file photo by Ric Dugan was the largest employer in Washington CHRISTMAS AT County. The original roundhouse was disPeople hold candles during the 2022 Festival of Lights ceremony in front of Frederick’s City Hall.

THE ROUNDHOUSE mantled in March 1999. But the HagerThe Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum buildings, figures, and tunnels with a hand Special train displays include the Mid- stown Railroad Museum reminds visitors celebrates the holiday season with a fam- painted backdrop. wood Junction layout, Polar Express, and of the legacy railroading had in Hagerily favorite event, Christmas at the Round“It’s like what you would have seen in a HO layout that features Western Maryland, stown and Washington County with arhouse featuring the Trains of Christmas. department store,” said Gerry Smith, Hag- including a replica of the original Western tifacts, model train displays, videos and Christmas at the Roundhouse is a trip erstown Roundhouse Museum chair.

Maryland Hagerstown Roundhouse. more. The museum also has a section down memory lane for kids to adults with New and revised this year is an N-scale Christmas at the Roundhouse featurdedicated to the C&O Canal. festive model train displays. The museing Trains of Christmas has become a famtrain layout, which is about half the size of The gift shop will be open with ideas um is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday, ily tradition. for the holidays, such as books, mugs, Dec. 1 through Feb. 25, noon to 4 p.m. It a HO-scale model train.

“When we started, I saw kids come Smith said there is a three-rail layout on train sets and T-shirts. is closed Dec. 24 and Dec. 31. Cost is $6 in when they were 2 years old, and now To plan your visit, become a member for adults, $1 for ages 4 to 15, and free for the second floor where kids can act like they’re coming in with their kids,” Smith a conductor and control the four trains. or volunteer, call 301-739-4665 or go to ages 3 and younger.

The second-floor features O-scale, N-scale said. roundhouse.org. Only the first floor of the This year’s event features the large Situated at 296 S. Burhans Blvd., the Trains of Christmas layout, complete with and HO-scale trains. museum is handicap accessible.

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

2023|24 SEASON

FOR THE

HOLIDAYS THANK YOU TO OUR CONCERT SPONSORS:

DECEMBER 16, 2023 | 7:00 PM DECEMBER 17, 2023 | 3:00 PM THE MARYLAND THEATRE

Home for the Holidays returns to the Maryland Theatre this December. With special guests, Gregory Watkins, Hagerstown Choral Arts, and Santa Claus, you don’t want to miss this magical celebration of the season!

B O X O F F I C E : 3 0 1 - 7 9 7 - 4 0 0 0 | T I C K E T S . M A RY L A N D S Y M P H O N Y. O R G

72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 13

Frederick’s Audrey Thelemann kicks off

BY ERIN JONES

As with most holiday seasons, the Rockettes spent a busy October and November in preparation for hen Audrey their signature show, “The Christmas Thelemann stood on Spectacular,” which runs at Radio City the stage at the end Music Hall through Jan. 4. But this time of the 2011 Rockette of year included other appearances as Summer Intensive, well. On Nov. 15, Thelemann sparkled she had no idea that the next few in pastel sequins and fairy wings on moments would change the course of the “Today” show. Just two days later, her life. she helped to light the Empire State This was not her first experience Building in a flood of festive red and with RSI, a rigorous training program green. And Thanksgiving, of course, for Rockette-hopefuls that has since brought the Rockette’s much-beloved transitioned into the Rockettes parade appearance.

Conservatory. The Frederick native Because there are multiple casts began attending in the summers of her within the Rockettes company, not teen years, a decision that adjusted every dancer appears in the parade her course from the ballet path and set each year. Though Thelemann was her sights on Radio City Music Hall. not dancing in this year’s parade, she After graduating from Tuscarora talked about the excitement of chillyHigh School in 2010 and moving to morning bus rides down Sixth Avenue New York City, she heard nothing after with the other Rockettes. her spring audition for the Rockettes.

“As a collective group, we’re making Assuming she had not been accepted, sure that we’re all prepared, knowing she determined to lean into her our parts, going over the choreography training more than ever and returned together, we all check each other’s to RSI. makeup and lipstick,” she said.

This time, to her surprise, she was Then, when the performance offered a contract on the spot. begins, “all else stops,” she said. “You “It was a very magical moment, with see cameras, you see people, but it’s friends onstage and my parents there just like you’re back onstage at Radio to see the performance,” Thelemann City. The world disappears. You’re recalled. smiling, dancing, and there’s just the It would be the first of many camaraderie and the crowd cheering.” magical moments as a Rockette.

Watching the performance back on The professional dancer, who TV and seeing the crowd’s enjoyment spent the Thanksgiving mornings of of the moment is another highlight for her childhood dazzled by the festive Thelemann. glamor and thrilling high-kicks of the “It’s the one opportunity that everyone in America has to see our Rockettes’ parade appearance, just began her 13th season as a Radio City signature eye-high kicks and precision.”

The Rockettes first made their Rockette.

Special to The News-Post

W

Matt Ramirez/MSG Entertainment

The Rockettes hold open rehearsals for members of the press in October 2023, before their 2023-2024 season.

14 | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 72 HOURS

Scott Levy/MSG Entertainment

Radio City Rockette Audrey Thelemann poses in Radio City Music Hall in New York City in 2019. parade appearance in 1957, but some of the traditions still honored by the company date back even further. This year’s “Christmas Spectacular” contains a mixture of old traditions and new innovations. The “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” is one example of the former.

“Every other Rockette who has ever been on the stage has done that exact same number since its inception in 1933,” Thelemann said.

On the flip side, “The Dance of the Frost Fairies” employs the use of drone technology to provide the audience an immersive experience, what Thelemann calls a “whimsical winter wonderland.”

The theater makes use of projections on the walls that reach throughout the audience. “There’s not a bad seat in the house,” Thelemann said. “You feel like you are a part of the show … like you are onstage.”

The dancers’ precise tap dancing during “The 12 days of Christmas” is another crowd favorite. While their meticulous rhythm comes from discipline and rigorous rehearsal, their volume has a little help from some stage magic.

Thelemann reveals that each of their tap shoes comes with its own microphone: “36 women with two feet — that’s 72 microphones picking up the sound. It’s

incredible to see us all doing the same thing onstage.”

While the choreography garners the applause, the show requires considerable off-stage action and rehearsal, too, offering the dancers little respite in each 90-minute performance. One costume change runs only 76 seconds, and pulling it off requires immense stamina, both physically and mentally. This is even more true for Thelemann, who, as a swing in the cast, learns multiple parts within the company so she can cover for someone at the last minute, if needed.

“I am always making sure I know my part, to be ready to jump in at a moment’s notice,” she said. “We’ve done the show for many years, and I’ve been in a lot of parts, but it is a lot to keep your endurance up and keep your brain active. If something happens, I’m there, and I have any girl’s back.”

In a high-intensity, backstage environment, Thelemann’s years of experience are valuable, especially to newer Rockettes. This year in particular, Thelemann said she has been reflecting on her days as a younger Rockette, when she used

her 13th holiday season as a Rockette

to look up to the more experienced dancers. Now that she is one of the more seasoned ones, she seeks to support the newer Rockettes by offering advice on things like getting preset backstage (organizing costumes, shoes, accessories, props beforehand) and surviving those intense costume changes.

“We’re all really like one big sisterhood,” she said. “We’re a really tight-knit group of women.”

Some of the women cast have been sharing a stage with Thelemann since those magical moments when she first received her contract.

The wisdom and expertise gained

by Thelemann’s experience is not only a benefit to her fellow Rockettes but extends to the aspiring dancers of her hometown of Frederick. During the summer, Thelemann will often return home and teach at local dance studios, such as 24/7 Dance Studio and Dance Unlimited, and even while in New York, she occasionally gets messages from local dancers.

Her advice to the young dancers of Frederick?

“Keep the mentality that hard work pays off, and opportunities and doorways open when you least expect them to. Little ballerina me did not expect that I would be on the greatest stage in Radio City, doing

Carl Scheffel/MSG Entertainment

Dress rehearsal for the upcoming Radio City “Christmas Spectacular” at Radio City Music Hall in New York City in November 2018. this job that I love.”

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 and 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.

“The Christmas Spectacular”

Rana Faure/MSG Entertainment

Opening night of the 2021 Radio City “Christmas Spectacular” at Radio City Music Hall on Nov. 9, 2021.

“The Christmas Spectacular” starring the Radio City Rockettes runs through Jan. 4 at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. The show features nine numbers throughout the 90-minute production. Last year, the show debuted a newly reimagined lyrical number “Dance of the Frost Fairies,” turning Radio City into a wintry wonderland with the Rockettes performing as whimsical fairies while fairy-drones magically fly throughout the Music Hall. Founded in 1925, the Radio City Rockettes are the longest-running precision dance company in America. They are world-renowned for their unity, athleticism and iconic precision style combining elements of ballet, jazz and tap, as well as techniques of modern and contemporary dance. Tickets for “The Christmas Spectacular” are available at rockettes.com/christmas.

72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 15

”Glyphs” — through Dec. 16, NOMA Gallery, 437 N. Market St., Frederick. A glyph is “the specific shape, design, or representation of a character. For the purpose of our show we are using Glyphs to mean any shape, design or symbol to convey meaning. Features glyphs by Richard Schellenberg and Watson.

Artists’ talk 7 to 8 p.m. Dec. 16. Noon to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. 240-367-9770 or nomagalleryfrederick.com.

Steven Dobbin solo exhibition — through Dec. 22, Allegany Arts Council’s Saville Gallery, 9 N. Centre St., Cumberland. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 301-777-2787.

“Ninety Degrees” — through Dec. 31 at Gaslight Gallery, 118 E. Church St., Frederick. Work by painter by Isabel Manalo. Hours are 1 to 6 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday.

“BUBBLES: Awareness is the First Step” — through Dec. 31 at the Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Artist Cynthia ScottJohnson’s watercolor and mixedmedia paintings in this series looks at how belief, memory, imagination and visual sensory input effect levels of perception. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301-6980656 or delaplaine.org.

“Chasing Flies: The Satirical Art of Christopher Madden” — through Dec. 31 at the Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. In the tradition of artists like Goya and Daumier with a bit of Mad magazine thrown in, Madden uses satire in his oil paintings to evoke and create dialogue about contemporary cultural constructs. The old adage “you catch more flies with honey than vinegar” is turned upside down to illustrate how humor can be used to present challenging concepts to the world in an accessible manner and hopefully provide a reflection of the human condition. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301-6980656 or delaplaine.org.

“The Weathered Inch” — through Dec. 31 at the Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick.

Michael Douglas Jones’ mixedmedia assemblage work utilizes books, writing accoutrement, photography and other ephemera as metaphors for the stories we carry — through the books we’ve read, experiences we’ve had and 16 | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 72 HOURS

Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

Frederick County Art Association — through Jan. 5, Frederick Health Crestwood Medical Building, 7211 Bank Court, Frederick. Original artwork including oil, acrylic, photography, mixed media and wood carvings by Frederick artists.

Hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. 240-215-1460, frederickhealth.org/crestwoodart. ”Deck the Walls — A Small Works Show” — through Jan. 28, Gallery 322, 322 N. Market St., Frederick.

Small paintings, sculpture and assemblages for gifting. Art can be taken home on the day purchased.

Fridays 4 to 7 p.m., noon to 5 p.m.

Saturdays and Sundays or by appointment. 240-815-7777 or gallery322.com.

“Reflections on the Human Condition” — through Feb. 1 at FAC’s Al and Helen Hurwitz Gallery, 1 N. Market St., Frederick. Mixedmedia sculpture “Lamentation” and other works by Esperanza Alzona.

Hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, with extended hours on First Saturdays to 7 p.m. and during First Sunday Art Walks Courtesy photo from 1 to 4 p.m. 301-662-4190, frederickartscouncil.org.

“Patterns of Life” features mixed-media work by Ellen Hill that celebrates the constancy found in ”Dreamscapes Unveiled” — through natural cycles and the ties that bind us to each other. See the exhibition at the Delaplaine Arts February, FAC Hurwitz Gallery, 1 Center in Frederick through Dec. 31. Shown here, “Meet in the Middle 1,” by Ellen Hill.

N. Market St., Frederick. Artworks

by FAC studio artists explore the multifaceted aspects of the dreamworld, inviting viewers to contemplate the mysterious and at the Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. the lessons we’ve learned. Hours enigmatic landscapes of the mind. are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Carroll St., Frederick. This exhibition Hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday features mixed media work by Ellen Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Hill that celebrates the constancy 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

First Saturdays of each month. 301found in natural cycles and the ties ”Of the Angels” — through Dec. that bind us to each other. The richly 662-4190 or frederickartscouncil.org.

31, Riverworks Gallery at Locals ”Picasso on Paper: The Artist as textured artworks are assembled Farm Market, 19929 Fisher Ave., Poolesville. Featuring 17 oil paintings from panels and fragment of carved, Printmaker 1923-72” — through March 3, Washington County painted and inked wood. Hours are paired with excerpts from Sheryl Museum of Fine Arts, 401 Museum 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Massaro’s translations of the poetry Drive, Hagerstown. This is the of Rainer Maria Rilke, “Of the Angels” Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. first exhibition at the museum in 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org. explores vivid imagery and subtle over 50 years of the work of Pablo emotions that help us recognize and Frederick Camera Clique: affirm our universal experience. 301- Members Exhibition — through Dec. Picasso (1881-1973), one of the most influential masters of the 31 at the Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 922-8507 or riverworksart.org.

20th century. Often considered the “Impression to Abstract” — through S. Carroll St., Frederick. For more than 30 years, the Frederick Camera most innovative printmaker since Dec. 31 at Blanche Ames Gallery, Rembrandt, Picasso ultimately Clique has dedicated itself to 4880 Elmer Derr Road, Frederick. created more than 2,400 prints over improving the skills of its members, More than 35 new paintings by his long career. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. who range from beginners to semiBarbara Kenny are featured in professionals. Vote for your favorite Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to this solo show. 301-473-7689, frederickuu.org. photo during the exhibition. Hours 4 p.m. Saturday, 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday.

“Patterns of Life” — through Dec. 31 are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through 301-739-5727 or wcmfa.org.

TICKET ARTS to the

For more art news, visit FrederickArtsCouncil.org

Frederick Symphony Orchestra GLENN QUADER, MUSIC DIRECTOR

WINTER SHOWCASE & ARTIST MARKET WEEK SIX

DECEMBER 16TH & 17TH

Saturday y: Mark Adler, Mark Poole, Sheryl Southwick, Emilly Malley, Ellen Schippert, Michelle Ramos, Liz LaGardee Sunday: Sheeryl Southwick, Andrew Salfi, Michelle Venable, Black Cat Studios

NUTCRACKER SWEETS

SCAN FOR TICKETS

SATURDAY DECEMBER 16, 7:30 P.M. AND SUNDAY DECEMBER 17, 3 P.M.

J.B. KUSSMAUL THEATER, FREDERICK COMMUNITY COLLEGE For tickets and information, visit fredericksymphony.org or call 301-685-3585.

C E L E B R AT E 2 8 Y E A R S

Weekend pop p-up markets will house artists at the FAC Art Center to o sell their work on a rotating ba asis over the course of 7 weeks from November 10 - December 23 on Saturdays and Sundays.

info@fredericka artsc council.org www.fredericka artsc council.org

S I N G - A LO N G P R E S E N T E D

B Y

DECEMBER 19, 2023

The Weinberg Center for the Performing Arts House opens at 7:30 pm, sing-along begins at 8:00 pm PURCHASE TICKETS

301-600-2828 | www.weinbergcenter.org Advance purchase strongly recommended.

General Seating: Adults $30 Students/Seniors $25 www.Fredcc.org

72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 17

SPONSORED CONTENT

FILM This image released by Netflix shows a scene from “Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget.”

WAREHOUSE CINEMAS

Netflix via AP

NEWS AND EVENTS: $7 TUESDAYS

Any movie, including Dolby Atmos. All day. Anytime.

MAGIC MOVIE EVENT: THE POLAR EXPRESS Sunday, December 24 at 9:00am

All aboard the Polar Express!

Get your golden ticket for only $1 to take a magical movie adventure to the North Pole.

We have limited tickets available for the morning of Christmas Eve only. Get yours now!

TRIVIA NIGHT WITH BP TRIVIA Monday, January 4th, 2024 at 7:00pm UPCOMING FILMS THIS WEEKEND:

“Christmas with the Chosen: Holy Night”, and “Wonka”

Warehouse Cinemas is an independently owned cinema that offers a unique, premium movie going experience by providing first-run movies + retro films, leather recliner seating w/ seat warmers, high-quality picture and sound, including Dolby Atmos, a modernindustrial décor, and premium food and drink options, including movie themed cocktails, wine and a 28-tap self-serve beer wall. Visit us at warehouscinemas.com or scan the QR Code for this week’s feature films.

18 | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 72 HOURS

What to stream this week

BY THE ASSOCIATED PRESS NEW MOVIES TO STREAM

— After a tour through North American stadiums and a blockbuster debut in cinemas, Taylor Swift’s “The Eras Tour” lands in homes, appropriately enough, on Swift’s birthday. “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour,” the concert film of Swift’s careerspanning spectacular, premieres on premium on-demand Wednesday.

How much it will cost to digitally rent the film hasn’t been announced, but tickets to the movie cost $19.89, a reference to Swift’s album, “1989.”

An already lengthy film (2 hours and 49 minutes) will also now run past three hours, with the addition of three songs: “Wildest Dreams,” “Long Live” and “The Archer.” In her review, AP Music Writer Maria Sherman praised the experience of seeing the Time Magazine Person of the Year up close in “The Eras Tour,” calling it “a near exact replica of her blockbuster concert performance.”

— More than two decades after the release of “Chicken Run,” Aardman Animations has returned to the adventures of its defiant feathered protagonist, Ginger, in the sequel “Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget.”

The 2000 original remains the highest grossing stop-motion animation flick ever with more than $227 million in ticket sales. But “Dawn of the Nugget,”

which introduces an all-new voice cast including Thandiwe Newton, Bella Ramsey and Zachary Levi, debuts Friday, Dec. 15, on Netflix. In it, Ginger has escaped from Tweedy Farm and found sanctuary elsewhere, but again must lead the flock to freedom.

— In writer-director Rodrigo Moreno’s “The Delinquents,” Morán (Daniel Eliás) has a clever scheme to steal from the bank he works in.

He’ll steal only what he would be paid for 25 years of work, hide the money with a colleague (Esteban Bigliardi), confess to the crime and do three years in jail before having the rest of his life to himself. In the film, which streams Friday, Dec. 15, on Mubi, Moreno takes the hard genre apparatus of a heist movie and melts it into an existential meditation on life, work, and stolen time.

— AP Film Writer Jake Coyle NEW SERIES TO STREAM

— Peacock has been airing Bravo “Ultimate Girls Trip” series where they pluck various “Real Housewives” cast members, past and present, from different cities and send them to a destination as far as Thailand and as close as the Berkshires mountains in Massachusetts. The latest iteration, “The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: RHONY Legacy” features some of the early cast members of “The Real Housewives of New York” (prior to its

reboot earlier this year with an all-new cast.) Kelly Killoren Bensimon, Luann de Lesseps, Dorinda Medley, Sonja Morgan, Ramona Singer and Kristen Taekman jet off to St. Barths to stay at a location familiar to fans, Saline Beach, featured in the reality show’s fifth season. The first three episodes drop Thursday.

— The 50th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards were postponed last June due to the Hollywood writers’ strike and will now air Friday, Dec. 15 on CBS and Paramount+. Hosted by Kevin Frazier and Nischelle Turner of “Entertainment Tonight,” “General Hospital” leads with 19 nominations followed by “The Bold and the Beautiful” with 14.

“The Kelly Clarkson Show” has 11 nominations, the most for a daytime talk show. Longtime “All My Children” star, Susan Lucci, will receive a Lifetime Achievement award.

— The second season of Prime Video’s “Reacher” starring Alan Ritchson returns Friday, Dec. 15 and is based on Lee Child’s novel “Bad Luck and Trouble.” The new episodes see Reacher with a new cast of characters, as he is depicted as a loner who spends his life traveling from town to town, with no home base or belongings, except for a toothbrush.

Season three has already been ordered.

— Alicia Rancilio

72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 19

Dempsey’s p y Grille G pretty sure this should all be ads according to Sam LOCATED IN HISTORIC MIDDLE ETOWN

Give your taste buds a treat with delicious food from our full-service restaurant and catering company. Dempsey’s Grille is a family-owned-andoperated restaurant, serving delicious home-cooked meals in a warm, comfortable environment since 2006.

Lunch l Speciaee

r One Ent rter a t S e +On

$13.50

116 WEST MAIN STREET • 301.371.7400 I DEMPSEYSGRILLE.COM

CHINESE RESTAURANT & SUSHI BAR

Serving the community since 1984

THE CHINA GARDEN FAMILY APPRECIATES ALL THE COMMUNITY SUPPORT.

Catering is available

((301) 695-5055 | (301) 695-5056 506 W. Patrick St., Frederick, MD 21701

Please check www.frederickchinagarden.com for updates.

20 | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 72 HOURS

Country Goodness from Our Family to Yours

pretty sure this should all be ads according to Sam

In House Banquet Rooms and Full Service Off Site Catering

Delicious BUFFET served everydayy

Brreakfastt • L Breakfast Lunch unch h•D Dinner inner Fresh Baked Goods • Catering • Gift Shop

133 Frederick Rd. • Thurmont, MD • 301-271-4373 www.MountainGateFamilyRestaurant.com

OUR SERVICE OiFngF 1f0o% Dine IIn, T Di Take k O Out, r Din y Delivery And Catering on Weekda 9/24 Expires 2/2

in town

AUTHENTIC THAI FOOD 19 E Broad Way, Lovettsville VA 20180 703-628-2444 www.daughterthaiva.com

Breakfast served Daily

Oldest Family Owned BBQ in Frederick County

Lunch, Dinner Specials & Catering

Brewed on the premises

Consistently voted by national books & magazines as one of the top 10 BBQ restaurants in the US If you haven’t tasted our Burnt Ends you haven’t Lived!

16430 Old Frederick Rd. • Emmitsburg, Maryland 21727 Phone: 301-447-3322 • Fax: 301-447-3399 www.ChubbysBBQ.net

301-271-3500 | 210 North Church Street Hours: Thurmont, Maryland 21788 Mon.-Sat. 7:00am-8:00pm bollingersrestaurant.com Sun. - 7:00am-2:00pm For Daily Specials, go to Wed. - 11:00am-8:00pm facebook.com/bollingerrestaurant 72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 21

NothingBundtCakes.com NothingBundtCakes.com

DAILY LUNCH & DINNER SPECIALS PATIO DINING AVAILABLE

BEST PATIO DINING

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN MIDDLETOWN

CHRISTMAS EATS

Frederick 5597 Spectrum Drive, Suite 103 Frederick, MD 21703 (240) 549-6817

Happy Hour and Mon-Wed

12/31/23

Mon-Fri 3pm-6pm

Half Priced Wine Bottles

14 West Main Street Middletown, MD 21769

301-371-4433 www.THEMAINCUP.com

HOURS: MON-SAT 11AM-10PM, GRILL CLOSES AT 9PM

Cheers!

LUCKY CORNER RESTAURANT in Frederick, MD

Rube’sCrab Shack

All You Can Eat Crab & Crab Legs Bushel Crabs Available Always “FRESHLY” Steamed per Order!

You’ve tried the rest, now try the “BEST”

We e Hav

CRABS

301-447-4116 17308 N. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg, MD 21727

Just 10 minutes south of Thurmont - Just off US 15 Year Round

OPEN Tues.-Sun. www.rubescrabshackllc.com

22 | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 72 HOURS

5100 Buckeystown Pike Ste. 174 Frederick, MD 21704 301-360-5913 See full menu and order online at luckycornerrestaurant.com

Our Menu

Winner Best of the Best Greek Restaurant

GREEK SPECIALTIES • SUBS • SALADS

4304 Old National Pike, Middletown, MD · 301-371-3500 · www.alekosvillagecafe.com alekos illag Kid’s Meals

Hand-cut Idaho potatoes.

Mini Athenian Gyro ..................................................... $7.50 Chicken Tenders ......................................................... $6.50 Grilled Cheese Sandwich........................................... $5.95

Hand-cut Idaho potatoes topped with crumbled feta and oregano.

(Kid’s meals served with fries and a juice box)

Feta Fries..................................................................... $6.95 Spanakopita ................................................................ $6.95 Spinach, feta, eggs, dill and onions wrapped in filo dough.

Dolmades................................................................. $5.50

Homemade Greek Soups

Rice stuffffed f grape leaves, topped with our homemade sauce.

All Soup Varieties .............................. Sm. $4.95 Lg. $13.95

A blend of yogurt, diced cucumbers, olive oil and garlic. (Extra pita $1.00)

(Please call for weekly soups)

Tzatziki & Pita ............................................................. $5.50

souzoukaki served on basmati rice with a side greek salad or boardwalk fries.

Pita and tzatziki on the side.

Vegetarian Platter .....................................................$14.50 Organic wheat protein served on basmati rice with grilled pita, tomato, feta, and tzatziki sauce. (add zucchini $4.00)

Falafel Platter ............................................................$14.50 3 large falafel patttties t on a bed of basmati rice, tomato, onion, pita and tzatziki sauce.

Salmon Platter ...........................................................$16.95

Chicken & Orzo“Avgolemono”• Vegan Organic Lentil • Vegan Organic Vegetable Vegan Organic Split pea • Cream of Mushroom

Hummus & Pita ........................................................... $4.95 Pureed chick peas, olive oil, garlic and spices. (Extra pita $1.00)

Wild Alaskan salmon grilled with our homemade marinade served on basmati rice with a side salad or boardwalk fries.

Homemade Greek Desserts

Homemade falafel served with our house made tzatziki sauce.

Falafel and our wheat protein meat substitute served on basmati rice, with hummus, tzatziki, grilled pita, and a side of boardwalk fries or a greek salad.

Tzatziki, hummus, fire feta, dolmades, olives and grilled pita. (Extra pita $1.00)

American Specialties

Baklava .............................................................. Slice: $4.95 Walnuts, cinnamon with butttter, t layered between thin filo dough, topped with honey.

Assorted Greek Cookies & Pastries (sold by the pound) .. $15.95 lb Melomakarona (Christmas Cookie) Cinnamon cookie dipped in honey Koulouraki (Easter Cookie) Butttter, t orange cookies Kourambides (Wedding Cookies) Round butttter t cookies with almonds covered in confectioner’s sugar.

Mini Baklava Variations of baklava with pistachio, almonds and orange.

Rice Pudding............................................................... $4.95 Homemade rice pudding sprinkled with cinnamon.

Drink

Fountain Soda ...................................................... Lg. $2.49

SALADS

Greek Salad........................ Sm. $6.50 ...............Lg. $7.95

Romaine lettttuce, t tomatoes, feta cheese, olives, pepperoncini. Under 400 calories.

Chef Salad...............................................................$12.50

Romaine hearts, tomato, provolone cheese, ham, salami, and a hard boiled egg.

Souvlaki Salad........................................................$13.50

Mozzarella Sticks (with Marinara sauce).Sm. $4.50 . Lg. $6.50 Falafel ....................................................................... $6.95 Sampler Side Dip ....................................................... $11.95 Fire Feta....................................................................... $5.95 Spicy infused feta cheese spread served with grilled pita. (Extra pita $1.00)

Gyros

All gyros and Souvlaki pita sandwiches served either: Athenian Style: tomato, onion, tzatziki, and fries all wrapped in pita.

American Style: lettttuce, t tomato, onions, tzatzik sauce & feta cheese

Gyro ..........................................Pita $9.50 ...12” Sub $13.50 Lamb & beef or chicken hand cut from our rotisserie.

Chicken Gyro .........................Pita $9.50 .....12” Sub $13.50 Chicken hand cut from our rotisserie.

Souvlaki ..................................Pita $9.50.....12” Sub $13.50 Hand cut, fresh marinated chicken breast or pork.

SOU-ZOU Gyro ......................Pita $9.50......12” Sub $13.95 Grilled organic zucchini with souvlaki meat or vegetarian meat, grilled onion, tomato, feta and tzatziki sauce.

**Vegetarian Gyro ...................Pita $9.50.....12” Sub $13.50

Organic homemade chick pea falafel served with tomato, onion, lettttuce t and tzatziki sauce.

Gyro and souvlaki meat served on romaine hearts, with 1/2 a pita tomato feta tratziki and house dressing on the side

Greek Platters All platttters t served with boardwalk fries or salad.

Gyro, grilled zucchini, onion, tomato, feta, 1/2 grilled pita served on romaine hearts with tzatziki and dressing on the side

SOU-ZOU Salad......................................................$13.95

Grilled organic zucchini, souvlaki meat, romaine hearts, tomato, feta, grilled pita, tzatziki sauce & homemade dressing.

Salmon Salad.............................................................$15.95

Thinly sliced steak served with grilled onions,American cheese, lettttuce, t tomato and mayo on a toasted roll.

Extra meat $5.00

Gyro Platter ...............................................................$14.50 Open faced sandwich served with heaps of gyro meat, lettttuce, t onion, feta, and tzatziki sauce.

Souvlaki Platter.......................................................$14.50

Marinated chicken breast or pork served on a bed of lettttuce t with pita, lettttuce t tomato, onion, feta and tzatziki sauce.

SOU-ZOU Platter ....................................................$15.95

Lightly battttered, t fried filet, served with American cheese, lettttuce, t tomato and mayo.

Chicken or Steak and Cheese Pita

Chicken or steak cooked with Grilled onions, topped with american cheese and wrapped in a grilled pita.

Romaine hearts with home made falafel grilled pita, tomato, feta and our homemade dressing

A combination of our Gyro and Souvlaki meats tossed together, served on a bed of basmati rice with tomatoes, onions, feta and tzatziki sauce.

Organic wheat protein marinated with spices, cooked with grilled onions, romaine hearts, tomato, feta, grilled pita, tzatziki sauce and homemade dressing. (add zucchini $3.00)

Three charbroiled skewers of Pork or Chicken served on pita bread with Feta Fries

Provolone cheese, Genoa salami, Capicola and ham served with lettttuce, t tomato, mayo, and house dressing.

Traditional greek salad, ripe roma tomato, sliced cucumber, feta, olives and capers.

A hearty platttter t with a combination of a chicken Kbob, gyro meat, and souzoukaki served on basmati rice with a side greek salad or boardwalk fries.

Pita and tzatziki on the side.

Double Bacon Cheese Burger Sandwich

Board Walk Style Fries ............................................... $5.95

A hearty platttter t with a combination of a chicken Kbob, gryo meat, and

Vegetarian Salad........................................................$12.95

Village Salad ............................................................... $8.95

SIDES/ TAPPAS

K-Bob Platter .........................................................$14.50

Souzoukaki Platter (aka Meatball Platter)................$16.95

Sampler Platter ..........................................................$16.95

Gluten free. Please request NO PITA ** Vegan options please request **

---

$11.95

$13.95

---

$9.50

$12.50

$5.95

$9.50

$13.95

$5.95

$9.50

$12.95

$5.95

$9.50

$12.95

$8.95

---

---

---

$9.50

$12.95

$11.95

---

---

---

$9.50

$12.95

$11.95

---

---

Meatball Sub

Home made meatballs served with melted provolone cheese topped with parmesan cheese.

Grilled organic zucchini with souvlaki meat or gyro meat, grilled onion, tomato, feta and tzatziki sauce served over basmati rice.

Combinations Greek Platter ..................................$16.95

12” Sub

Chicken Breast

Wild Alaskan salmon, served with tomato, hard boiled egg, and feta cheese.

Falafel salad............................................................$12.95

9” Sub

Cheeseburger

USDA Angus charbroiled ground beef, served with lettttuce, t tomato, mayo and American cheese.

Fried Fish

**Falafel Gyro ..........................Pita $9.50 ....12” Sub $12.95

Sandwich

Porterhouse Steak & Cheese

Grilled organic zucchini with grilled onions, tomato, feta and tzatziki sauce.

Romaine hearts, tomato, shredded feta, topped with a heaping amount of gyro meat. Serve with a grilled pita.

Gy-Zou Salad .............................................................$14.50

A super hearty sub with gyro meat,souvlaki chicken,tomato,onion,tzatziki & feta

Charbroiled all-natural chicken breast, served with provolone or American cheese, lettttuce, t tomato, and mayo.

**Zucchini Gyro .......................Pita $8.50 ....12” Sub $11.95

Combination Salad ....................................................$14.95

Combo Gyro Sub

Organic wheat protein marinated and cooked with grilled onions, tomato, feta and tzatziki sauce.

Romaine lettttuce t topped with our cubed, hand cut and marinated chicken breast, shredded feta, tomatoes, and tzatziki dressing with a grilled pita.

Gyro Salad..................................................................$13.50

Vegetarian Sampler Platter ......................................$16.95

Reuben

Swiss, sauerkraut, and thousand island dressing.

Italian Cold Cut

1/2 pound USDA choice ground beef with hickory bacon served with lettttuce, t tomato, and Mayo

Add extra meat to any Pita or Sub for $5.00 Add Grilled Zucchini for $3.00 Gyro meat by the pound - $18.95

free piece of our famous baklava with your $30.00 order!

10% of your order of $20.00 72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 23

Local Mentions

Local Mentions

BEAUTIFUL CHRISTMAS TREES

NEW YEAR'S EVE BINGO 12-31-2023

Trimmed & Ready for the Stand Wreaths - $15 Garland - $25/roll Table Decorations Big Assortment Down to Earth Prices!

Only at DR Virts 800 Petersville Rd Brunswick, Md Come on down and see me!

Cash & Cards

Thurmont Event Complex Over $15,000.00 of Cash Payouts $50.00 Per Ticket Available Friday Night Bingo, www.eventbrite.com Ticket Includes: 9 Pack of 27 Games ($300.00ea.), 3 Games ($1,000ea.), 3 50/50 Games & 2 Jackpots at $1,250 & 1 Jackpot ($1,500), (1 sheet of 3 for each 50/50’s & 3 Jackpots) Doors Open @ 5:00 p.m., Bingo Starts @ 8:00 p.m.

Meal Served: 6-8 p.m.

Meal: Roast Beet, Fried Shrimp, Mashed Potatoes w/Gravy, Green Beans and Applesauce TIP JARS Cash Bar - Kitchen Open During Break No Reserved Seating - First Come, First Served Basis Only No Exceptions! **We reserve the right to lower payouts if less than 300 tickets sold** Tickets: 301-748-5359 or 301-271-3820 Benefits The Thurmont Community Ambulance Company 13716 Strafford Drive Thurmont, MD 21788

CATOCTIN MOUNTAIN ORCHARD Apples: Gala, Empire, Fuji, Gold Rush, Evercrisp, Crimson Crisp, Staymen, Pink Lady & Golden Delicious.

Bosc & Seckel Pears.

Kale, Turnips, White & Sweet Potatoes.

Fresh Apple Cider, Fresh Baked Fruit Pies, Apple Cider Donuts, Jams & Jellies.

Christmas Wreaths 301-271-2737 Open Daily 9am-5pm 15036 North Franklinville Rd. Thurmont MD www.catoctinmountain orchard.com

CHRISTMAS COOKIE WALK

Sat. Dec 16 • 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Carroll Manor Fire Company 2793 Adams Street Adamstown, MD Large Assort. of Holiday Cookies that YOU Select $12 per lb. or $7 per 1/2 lb.

Pre-packaged assorted platters are preorder only.

Large Platters (2 lb.) $24.00 Small Platters (1 lb.) $14.00 Chris 301-874-5642 Pre-order cookies online: www.carrollmanorfire.org until 12/14.

NEW YEAR’S EVE BINGO & BUFFET

December 31, 2023 New Midway Vol. Fire Co. Doors Open: 5:00 Games Start: 7:30 Admission: $50.00 by 12/16/2023, After 12/16/2023 $60.00 includes 30 Reg. Games $100 Minimum - $1000 Jackpot Free Party Favors Extra Cards Available Only 250 Tickets Sold ATM Available For Info Call 301-898-7985 or 301-271-4650

JEFFERSON RURITAN CLUB COUNRTY PORK BUTCHERING SATURDAY DEC. 2, 2023 Advance Orders until Nov. 24th Call 301-834-6165 or 301-834-7702 Pick-up Orders Dec. 2rd rom 8am to Noon 4603B Lander RD, Jefferson MD 21755 COUNTRY BREAKFAST SAT. DEC. 2, 2032 7:00am to 11:00am/$13 Ruritan Center

!!FATHER AND SONS!!!

HANDYMAN HANDYMAN

INTER. PAINTING

Home Repair & Improvements

24 | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 72 HOURS

301-694-9630 LIC #74117 Serving Frederick for 34 Years!

Local Mentions VIGILANT HOSE COMPANY NEW YEAR'S EVE BINGO

17701 Creamery Road, Emmitsburg, MD Sunday, 12/31/Doors Open @ 5pm/Games @ 8pm All Inclusive 9 pk/$50 for 50 games incl.

4 $1000 Jackpots All other games $200/Incl. Dinner Platter!

Reserved seating if tickets purchased by 12/15.

Tickets purchased after 12/15 will be $60.

No checks mailed after 11/24. For info: Pam @ 240-472-3484 or @ Marylou @ 240-285-3184 Reserve right to change payouts if 200 are not sold.

Winchester Coin Club Presents

COIN SHOW

December 15, 2023 9am-4pm Buy - Sell - Trade Coins, Currency, Collectibles, Gold & Silver Bullion Friendship Fire Co. Bingo Hall 627 N. Pleasant Valley Rd., Winchester, VA 22601 Interstate 81, Exit 315 on to Berryville Ave Toward Winchester, Right on N. Pleasant Valley Rd., Free Admission ANACS on site Free Parking For more information, contact John Cox: 651-353-7972 JohnR@Coindealsforyou.com

Services LANDSCAPING

Leave the hard work to us!

Spring Cleaning, Mulching, Mowing Hardscaping Call J & R Cornerstone at 301-473-0449 Expecting calls any time!

FREE ESTIMATE

POOL WATER

We fill any size pool Call Nolan Hubble 240-315-1762

BOB'S LIGHT HAULING

Fall Yard Clean-Up, Light-Hauling from Attic, Garage, Bsmt, Senior Citizen Help, GutterCleaning. Reasonable Rates. Short Notice.

Fred. & Mont. Co. 301-606-6316.

BUSSARD BROTHERS Dbl, Trpl & Dyed Mulch, Screened Top Soil, Leaf Compost, Wood Chips, Sand, Stone. Will deliver.

301-865-3925

YOU MIGHT BE MISSING OUT ON NEW CUSTOMERS!

Prime Time DECEMBER 2023

F R E D E R I C K

REV UP! Golden Gears Car Club celebrates 50 years

Warm up to

Holiday recipes

Reach 50,000 mature readers when you promote your business in Prime Time.

The Frederick News-Post

ReadeRs need to know about seRviCes like these, and moRe:

• Plumbing • Landscaping • Roofing • Remodeling

• Auto repair • Furnishings • Appliances • IT services

• Financial services • Massage therapy • Spas & alternative health • Salons & barber shops

Publishes the last Wednesday of each month.

Contact us today so we can help you find the customers you’re missing:

301-662-1163 or advertising@newspost.com

WE’RE

HIRING! TEACHER (Central Region), FT $62,928.00 - $145,135.00/year Frederick, Montgomery and Prince George’s counties

SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST, FT $84,047.00 - $135,450.00/year Work location to abe determined.

DJS Educational Operations

DJS Educational Operations

OFFICE SECRETARY III $39,421.00 - $62,297.00/year Montgomery County

TEACHER (Eastern Region), FT $62,928.00 - $145,135.00/year Baltimore City, Baltimore and Wicomico counties

DJS Metro Region, State Operated Facilities

DJS Educational Operations

OFFICE SECRETARY III $38,648.00 - $58,702.00/year Washington County

TEACHER - SCIENCE, FT $62,928 - $145,135 Wicomico County

Western Maryland Children’s Center, 18420 Roxbury Road, Hagerstown

DJS Educational Operation

TEACHER (Western Region), FT $62,928.00 - $145,135.00/year Allegany, Garrett and Washington counties DJS Educational Operations

CALL TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE

(888) 273-9055

Gift your family the

FEELING OF COMFORT this HOLIDAY SEASON

LAST CHANCE FOR 2023 PRICING and GET FREE INSTALLATION. No interest for 18-months.

WINDOWS | DOORS | GUTTERS | SIDING | ROOFING | BATH & SHOWER Thompson Creek is neither a broker nor a lender. Financing is provided by Greensky, LLC under terms and conditions arranged directly between the customer and Greensky, LLC, all subject to credit requirements and satisfactory completion of finance documents. Thompson Creek does not assist with, counsel or negotiate financing. *Subject to credit approval. We have several finance plans, including no money down and no interest for 18-months. Minimum monthly payments required during the promotional period. Making minimum monthly payments during the promotional period will not pay off the entire principal balance. Interest is billed during the promotional period, but all interest is waived if the purchase amount is paid in full before the expiration of the promotional period. Financing for GreenSky® consumer loan programs is provided by federally insured, federal and state chartered financial institutions without regard to age, race, color, religion, national origin, gender, or familial status. Discount applied at time of contract execution. Four window minimum purchase required for advertised discount. All purchase prices to be calculated prior to application of discount. All purchase prices to be calculated prior to application of discount. Excludes previous orders and installations. All products include professional installation. Offer is not valid with any other advertised or unadvertised discounts or promotions. Limit of one discount per purchase contract. Void where prohibited by law or regulation. Offer expires 12/31/23. Offer may be canceled without prior notice. Offer has no cash value and is open to new customers only. MHIC #125294, VA # 2705-117858-A, DC Permanent # 8246, NC Limited Building Contractor Lic. #86050, HICPA # 164550, NJHIC # 13VH12421500. Delaware DOR Lic. # 2023701741, New Castle County # LC11070 / Class D

72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 25

Thursday Dec. 14 ETCETERA

“Stitches Through Time: Women’s Work from Farm to Fashion” — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Museum of Frederick County History/ Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. Explores one story of women’s work, interpreting the history of textile production up to the 1950s. $12, $10, $8. 301-663-1188. tonya@frederickhistory.org. frederickhistory.org.

The Hagerstown and Frederick Railway Exhibit — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. From 1896 until 1954, a network of interurban trolley lines were built linking communities across Frederick and Washington counties. This exhibit presents the history of these electric railways and how they changed the landscape and communities of Frederick County.

Through Dec. 22. $12, $10, $8. Tonya@FrederickHistory.org. cognitoforms.com/HeritageFrederick1/ stitchesthroughtimeexhibittickets.

Letters to Santa — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Dancing Bear Toys and Games, 15 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Drop off your letters to Santa during store hours. Don’t forget to include a return address so Santa can write back! The last day to drop off your letters to Santa will be Dec. 17. cimarketingassistant@gmail.com. fb.me/e/44ik7MHlo.

Duplicate Bridge Games — noon to 4 p.m. at Church of the Transfiguration , 6909 Maryland Ave., Frederick. Frederick Bridge Club duplicate games allow you to hone your skills and make new, like-minded friends. All are welcome, no membership requirements. $7. 301-254-4727. sharonwcox@gmail.com. bridgewebs.com/frederick.

Winter Wonderland Holiday Gala — 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Attaboy Barrel House, 24 S. Wisner St., Frederick. The holiday party for Frederick freelancers, solopreneurs, and remote workers! Tickets include heavy hors d’oeuvres, desserts, beer, wine, seltzer (first one on use, then cash bar), DJ, dance floor, and best of all, some of the coolest people in town. $40-$50. ainsley@coworkfrederickfoundation.org. coworkfrederickfoundation.org/ holiday-party-2023.

Totally Teen Time: Knot Scarf — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Create a cozy no-knit fleece scarf, and then take it home or leave it here to be donated to a local charity!

301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com/ event/totally-teen-time-knot-scarf-99013.

Pour House Trivia — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Champion Billiards Sports Bar, 5205 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick. Come on out with the team and play some Pour House Trivia. 7 p.m. start. Extended Happy Hour from 4 to 8 p.m.

301-846-0089. frederickchampions.com/weekly-specials.

MUSIC

icine, 48 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Peter Miele presents “The Lutheran Seminary at Gettysburg: The Civil War, Inside and Outside.”

This presentation promises to shed new light on the history of the Lutheran Seminary at Gettysburg, and oft-overlooked topics in Civil War history.

Free for members, $5 suggested fee for non-members. gldyson@comcast.net. frederickcountycivilwarrt.org.

THEATER “Inebriated Holiday” — 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Laugh your way through the holidays in this original show from the team who brought you “Inebriated History.” Some of your favorite holiday stories are told on screen by actors imbibing in holiday cheer, while a team of actors acts out the antics live on stage. 18 and older. $6.50-$37.50. 301-694-4744. zcallis@marylandensemble.org. marylandensemble.org/inebriated-holiday.

Friday Dec. 15 ETCETERA

Letters to Santa — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Dancing Bear Toys and Games, 15 E. Patrick Live Jazz at the Cocktail Lab — 7 p.m. to 9 St., Frederick. Drop off your letters to Santa p.m. at Tenth Ward Distilling Co., 55 E. Patrick during store hours. Don’t forget to include a St., Frederick. Get swanky with us every Thurs- return address so Santa can write back! The day night for live jazz and your favorite craft last day to drop off your letters to Santa will cocktails. 21 and older. be Dec. 17.

301-233-4817. cimarketingassistant@gmail.com. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. fb.me/e/44ik7MHlo. tenthwarddistilling.com/events.

Farmstead Taste & Tour — 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Renfrew Museum and Park, 1010 E. Main POLITICS St., Waynesboro, Pa. Five-course tasting Frederick County Civil War Roundtable seasonal and locally sourced menu with Meeting and Presentation — 7 p.m. to 8:15 guided tour of the Pa. German farmstead. p.m. at National Museum of Civil War MedPre-registration is required. Sold by the table:

Trail Mansion Open House

Dec. 26, 2023 4:00 - 8:00 PM

Tour Mansion for Free

106 East Church St. Frederick, MD 21701 26 | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 72 HOURS

$100 per table up to 2 guests; $200 per table up to 4 guests.

717-762-4723. renfrewmuseum.org.

Farmstead Taste & Tour — 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Renfrew Museum and Park, 1010 E. Main St., Waynesboro, Pa. Five-course tasting seasonal and locally sourced menu with guided tour of the Pa. German farmstead.

Pre-registration is required. Sold by the table: $100 per table up to 2 guests; $200 per table up to 4 guests.

717-762-4723. renfrewmuseum.org.

FAMILY Friday Fun — 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Join us for a fun playtime. For ages up to 5 with a caregiver.

301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com/ event/friday-fun-1.

FESTIVALS Jingle & Mingle — 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 2 N. Main St. , 2 N. Main St. , Mount Airy. The Town of Mount Airy hosts along Downtown Main Street. Photos with Santa Claus inside the historic renovated B&O Caboose. Take a horsedrawn carriage ride and listen to carolers meandering throughout Downtown. Warm up from the cold at a fire pit in between picking out the perfect gifts found in local shops. Check out the W. R Rudy’s Country Store & Drug Store Museum which will be open for tours during this special event. The cost is $5 per person cash only. Please have exact amount for your party as no change is available. mountairymd.gov.

Festival of Lights — 7 p.m. at City Hall, 101 N. Court St., Frederick. Holiday greetings, carols

Partners In Care Upscale Resale Boutique Helping Older Adults to Live Independently

Come and Support Partners In Care

Donations Needed in “Like New” Condition / Every Donation and/or Purchase makes a difference in the life of an Older Adult

Need Volunteers for the Boutique (Volunteers for Other Programs Are Available)

New Hours - Now Open Monday through Saturday 10-6 5 Willowdale Drive, Ste. B1, Frederick, MD 21702 • 301-682-7433 • www.partnersincre.org

and an inspirational message are all part of this community tradition-based event that highlights the true meaning of the holiday season. Attendees join in the program with a moving candle lighting ceremony, filling the courtyard with magnificent light.

301-600-2844. alipowitz@cityoffrederickmd.gov. celebratefrederick.com.

GALLERY Holiday Gift Mart — 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Eastside Artists’ Gallery, 313 E. Patrick St., Frederick. The gallery is filled with original artwork, forged steel sculpture, fused glass, photography, book art and jewelry, as well as original notecards, gifts and ornaments. eastsidearts313@gmail.com. eastsideartistsgallery.com.

MUSIC Morgan’s Coffeehouse — 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

at Morgan Chapel United Methodist Church, 6750 Woodbine Road, Woodbine. Americana music in the Hall on third Fridays of each month. On Nov. 17, join us as we welcome Celtic and folk artist Charlie Zahm with Tad Marks on fiddle. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and music begins at 7 p.m. Food, snacks, desserts, coffee, tea and sodas available for purchase.

Free admission. Donations encouraged.

Family friendly.

410-970-2485. coffeehouse@morganchapel.church. morganchapel.church/coffeehouse.html.

Holiday Play-Along with the Charles Washington Symphony Orchestra — 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 a.m. at Barn of Harpers Ferry, 1062 W. Washington St., Harpers Ferry, W.Va. Join the Charles Washington Symphony Orchestra for its annual Holiday Play-Along. Word and music will be provided so that all can join in for some carols and holiday favorites. Play or sing along as you sit side-by-side with the orchestra’s musicians led by our conductor.

Everyday Poetry

I grew up as a Christian, and hope and actions of an intermediary I still act like one most of the time. For (especially a politician). Christians me, mainly that means following the believe that, through some sacred, commandment asked of us by Christ mysterious logic or physics I don’t — that we love one another quite understand, the (New Testament: John 13:33companionship of the 35).

Holy Spirit could not Though I was raised have been given if Christ Christian, I veered off had not lived and died during my life. For awhile, among us.

I considered myself an This time of year, we atheist. For another while, I celebrate the Advent considered just about every of that entrance of other religion I could find. My Christ into our world godparents were Jewish. I’ve and into each heart. had friends who were Baha’i.

It is a season of warm My acupuncturist is a Tibetan SHERYL MASSARO light from candles, of Buddhist. Half my relatives are Roman contemplation, of tenderness. And of Catholic. I’ve known Wiccans, etc. anticipation of an event that brought It was fun, exploring. But, after something quite new and different one of those whiles, I realized I was into our existence. “knowing” certainties on a very deep Sheryl Massaro is a Frederick poet and still level. I felt I was experiencing and oil painter. She considers herself the company of what Christians fortunate to be a member of Frederick believe is God’s Holy Spirit. It is Presbyterian Church — an inclusive, the direct link to God’s heart and not-too-modern, practical church that guidance — not through the words is guided by Christ’s commandment.

614-906-3988. info@cwsymph.org. cwsymph.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.

301-233-4817. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. tenthwarddistilling.com/events.

THEATER “Jingle Jingle All the Way” — 6 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre, 5 Willowdale Drive, Frederick. Way Off Broadway’s new all-ages Christmas production blends songs from Christmases past and present.

Prices vary. 301-662-6600.

WOB@wayoffbroadway.com. wayoffbroadway.com.

“A Christmas Carol” — 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Join Maryland Ensemble Theatre for a heartwarming and magical journey as they bring Charles Dickens’ timeless classic to life on stage. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Ebenezer Scrooge, a grumpy old man who discovers the true meaning of Christmas with the help of three spirits. This beloved holiday tale is filled with memorable characters, stunning visuals, and a powerful message of redemption and compassion. The Friday evening performance will be ASL Interpreted. $12 to $24. 301-694-4744. zcallis@marylandensemble.org. weinbergcenter.org/shows/ a-christmas-carol-2023.

“Inebriated Holiday” — 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Laugh your way through the holidays in this original show from the team who brought you “Inebriated History.” Some

COOKIES (Continued from 4)

dough, placing the oval/petal shapes along the dark strands. You can do one need for your design. Lightly flour the color at a time or alternate between colcounter and rolling pin. Roll out the por- ors. Take very small pieces of black or tions of colored dough to about 1/8-inch green dough and set them on the ends thick. It is easiest to cut out all the shapes of the lights adjacent to the cord to mimyou’ll be using before placing them on ic the socket that connects the bulbs to your “canvas.” Using shaped cutters, the strand. cut out your design elements, dipping Roll, cut and bake the cookies: Cover the cutters in flour or dusting the countyour finished design with another clean er and rolling pin as needed to prevent piece of parchment. Using a rolling pin, sticking. If desired, reroll scraps of the roll the dough evenly in all directions colored dough to cut more shapes. until it is 1/4- to 3/8-inch thick and just For the holiday lights design: Use an about reaches the edges of the parchoval or petal-shaped cookie cutter for ment. Slide the whole slab, still on the the colored bulbs. Use a knife or pizza parchment, onto a large sheet pan and cutter on the black or green dough to refrigerate for 5 minutes. cut long, thin strips for the cord, reservLine two large sheet pans with parching some of the dough to help “attach” ment paper. Transfer the sheet of dough the lights to the cord later. on the parchment to the counter, trimAs you work, transfer the shaped dough to a large plate or piece of parch- ming the edges as needed to form a ment paper to see what you have to neat rectangle (the scraps can be rework with. rolled for multicolor bonus cookies). Use Assemble the canvas: When all your a 2- to 4-inch cookie cutter (any shape shapes are ready, start building your of your choice) to cut your cookies, placmasterpiece. Uncover the plain dough ing them about 1 inch apart on the prerectangle (your “canvas” from above) but pared sheet pans. Or simply use a sharp leave it on the bottom parchment paper. knife and cut into squares. Transfer the Move the cutout shapes around unpans to the refrigerator for at least 5 mintil you are satisfied with the design. Reutes (do one at a time if you’re tight on member that both the shapes and gaps space); this will help the cookies hold between them will spread as you roll, so their shape while baking. don’t be afraid to pack them close toRemove from the refrigerator and gether. An offset spatula is great for placbake one sheet at a time, 8 to 12 mining and moving them. utes, or until the cookies puff up, then For the holiday lights design: Lay start to deflate and their bottoms begin the long strips of black or green dough to turn golden brown. on the canvas so they mimic strings Let cool on the pan for 5 minutes beof lights. Spread them evenly over the whole rectangle and add some loops for fore transferring to a wire rack to cool fun and whimsy, if desired. If they break, completely.

Take the leftover dough scraps and don’t sweat it. Just piece them together to create continuous lines, as they will be roll them together, cut them and bake.

They make a fun, multicolor cookie, and smoothed over in rolling. nothing goes to waste.

Transfer the light shapes onto the 72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 27

Christmas Tour of the Churches of Myersville, Wolfsville, Harmony and Foxville — 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Myersville Town Hall, 301 Main St., Myersville. Pick up the church guide and map at Myersville Town Hall or any of the 14 churches open that day. If Frederick County Snow Emergency Plan is in effect, the tour will be rescheduled for Dec. 17, 1 to 5 p.m. Check mwahistory.com or Facebook for status. 301-641-8764. juliacarlson@gmail.com. mwahistory.com.

of your favorite holiday stories are told on screen by actors imbibing in holiday cheer, while a team of actors acts out the antics live on stage. 18 and older. $6.50-$37.50. 301-694-4744. zcallis@marylandensemble.org. marylandensemble.org/inebriated-holiday.

Oh, Crit! A D&D Improv Crew at MET Comedy Night — 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Improv comedy fused with Dungeons & Dragons! Join us as we embark on an adventure of twists and turns, bizarre characters, and occasional epic failure … All with the help from YOU and the whim of an unforgiving 20-sided die! $15. 301-694-4744. zcallis@marylandensemble.org. marylandensemble.org/comedynight.

Saturday Dec. 16 CLASSES

Freedom BANG class — 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. 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. 21 and older.

301-600-8200. fcpl.org.

ETCETERA

Christmas Shopping with Alpacas — 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Shepherd’s Purse Alpaca, 7971 Bennett Branch Road, Mount Airy. The barn as well as the It’s Alpaca! boutique will be open, and shoppers will have the opportunity to meet the alpacas and shop in a low-key environment. The boutique offers a variety of alpaca products, including sweaters, hats, gloves, yarn, stuffed animals, and other toys and accessories.

301-452-1874. info@shepherdspursealpacas.com. shepherdspursealpacas.com/whatsnew.htm.

Letters to Santa — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Dancing Bear Toys and Games, 15 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Drop off your letters to Santa during store hours. Don’t forget to include a return address so Santa can write back! The last day to drop off your letters to Santa will be Dec. 17. cimarketingassistant@gmail.com. fb.me/e/44ik7MHlo.

Foxville School House and Mount Moriah Lutheran Church Featured on Christmas Tour — 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Foxville School House, 14814 Foxville-Deerfield Road, Sabillasville. Mount Moriah Lutheran Church, 15116 Foxville Church Road, Sabillasville, and Foxville School House, 14814 Foxville-Deerfield Road, Sabillasville, will be two sites featured on the free self-guided Christmas Tour of the Churches of Myersville, Harmony, Wolfsville and Foxville. Go to www.mwahistory.com.

240-513-5878. mycatmarti@gmail.com. facebook.com/StPaulsGreenburgMD. Winter Solstice Holiday Market — 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Give Rise Studio, 125 S. Carroll St., 101, Frederick. 10 local makers will be sharing their products and gifts during our Winter Solstice Maker’s Market. Enjoy a

28 | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 72 HOURS

Courtesy photo

The Country Gentlemen Tribute Band

The Country Gentlemen Tribute album release concert The Country Gentlemen Tribute Band will play a release concert for their latest album, “Yesterday & Tomorrow,” from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Dec. 16 at the Lucketts Community Center, 42361 Lucketts Road, Leesburg, Virginia.

The live tribute show features songs by one of the most influential bands in bluegrass history, Washington, D.C.’s Country Gentlemen.

The current lineup that will be continuing to perform onstage includes Mike Phipps on guitar and vocals, David Propst on mandolin and vocals, Lynwood Lunsford on banjo and vocals, Kyle Windbeck on upright bass and Darren Beachley on dobro and vocals. This ensemble vows to continue to put its heart and soul into each performance, trying to help satisfy that musical hunger for the multitude of Country Gentlemen fans that still fill this country — especially the ones that truly miss Charlie Waller and Bill Yates.

“Yesterday & Tomorrow” features four Country Gentlemen covers, as well as originals in the vein of the band’s signature sound.

Tickets are $22.

Learn more at countrygentsshow.com. relaxing stop during your downtown travels.

Parking is free and Give Rise Studio is located in between Market Street and the fabulous breweries across East Street. giverisestudio@gmail.com.

Ghost Tours of Historic Frederick — 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Brewer’s Alley Restaurant and Brewery, 124 N. Market St., Frederick.

Journey through Frederick’s gruesome and bloody past. Nearly 300 years of war, executions and revenge. True documented stories of the paranormal with Maryland’s oldest operating Ghost Tour. Uncover political savvy and defiant citizens, patriots from the Revolutionary War, beckoning soldiers from the Civil War. Reservations recommended. $16. 301-668-8922. info@marylandghosttours.com. marylandghosttours.com.

Christmas Dance featuring Generations Big Band — 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at American Legion, 8 Park Lane, Thurmont . The New Thurmont Dance Club will host a Christmas

ballroom dance featuring live music by Generations Big Band. Cash or check at the door. Two large dance floors, plenty of table seating, cash bar. Black tie optional. $20. 301-788-2137. thurmontdanceclub@gmail.com. facebook.com/thurmontdance.

FAMILY Read with a Dog — 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Practice reading with a furry friend from Wags for Hope. For kids.

301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com/event/ read-dog-17.

Meet with Santa — 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Emmitsburg VFW, 12 W. Main St., Emmitsburg.

Open to public light fare, crafts provided.

Door prizes and gifts. For more information contact Bernie at 301-606-5529 301-606-5529. Isghobbs@yahoo.com.

“Junior Claus” at OVT — 2 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. at Other Voices Theatre, 244B S. Jefferson St., Frederick. Junior Claus is the only son of Santa and Mrs. Claus. Like many teenagers, Junior is reluctant to take over the family business. Unsure of himself, Junior puts more faith in his technological inventions than in good old-fashioned Christmas magic, much to the chagrin of his father. But, when a sudden drop in Christmas spirit renders Santa incapable of making the great ride, Junior must take the reins. Meanwhile, a scheming, miserly elf takes advantage of Santa’s absence as he plots to turn the workshop into a for-profit enterprise. A comedic holiday adventure for the whole family! $15.

The Frederick Catoctones presents “The Secret of Christmas” — 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Urbana High School, 3471 Campus Drive, Ijamsville. After nearly four years, the Frederick Catoctones will be producing another acapella concert, this time for the holidays. Featured guest ensembles include the Alexandria Harmonizers, silver medalist in the 2022 International Barbershop competition.

Plus, the Metro Voices treble chorus from Alexandria and the local Clustered Spires Chorus from Frederick, along with your hosts, the Frederick Catoctones. $24 general, $29 directors circle, $19 military, ages 60+ and students 13 and older, $10 ages 5 to 12, ages 4 and under free. 240-3154409. info@catoctones.com. catoctones.com.

GALLERY Holiday Gift Mart — 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Eastside Artists’ Gallery, 313 E. Patrick St., Frederick. The gallery is filled with original artwork, forged steel sculpture, fused glass, photography, book art and jewelry, as well as original notecards, gifts and ornaments. eastsidearts313@gmail.com. eastsideartistsgallery.com.

MUSIC Home for the Holidays — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at The Maryland Theatre, 21 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. Elizabeth Schulze, conductor.

An annual tradition that rings in the holidays, the Maryland Symphony Orchestra offers a magical, sing-along celebration of the season with a program featuring beloved traditional and popular music. All ages. $44. 240-382-2623. nlushbaugh@marylandsymphony.org.

Frederick Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concerts — 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Frederick Community College Jack B. Kussmaul Theater, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. It’s that time of year again and we’ve dusted off our sleigh bells for our ever-popular Holiday Concert! This year will feature Tchaikovsky’s Suite from “The Nutcracker,”

“Winter” from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, featuring Concert Master Alyssa Boxhill, and many more holiday favorites. For tickets visit showtix4u.com/event-details/76259. $20 adults $15 students. 973-943-3748. rarenshaw2@gmail.com. fredericksymphony.org.

THEATER “Santa Claus - The Musical” — 11:30 a.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre, 5 Willowdale Drive, Frederick. It’s Christmas Eve! After 1,000 years of faithful service, Santa and Mrs. Claus announce their decision to hang up the big red suit and train a replacement.

Enter Nick: a website designer and single dad to tech-savvy daughter, Bee. With pressures mounting — and a jealous, naughty elf thwarting their every move — will everyone in Santa’s Workshop come together in time for Nick to take the reins? Doors open for lunch at 11:30 a.m. Show begins at 12:30 p.m.

A special evening performance has been added on Dec. 20 with the doors opening at 6 p.m. and the show beginning at 7 p.m. $24. 301-662-6600.

WOB@wayoffbroadway.com. wayoffbroadway.com.

“A Christmas Carol” — 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Join Maryland Ensemble Theatre for a heartwarming and magical journey as they bring Charles Dickens’ timeless classic to life on stage. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Ebenezer Scrooge, a grumpy old man who discovers the true meaning of Christmas with the help of three

spirits. This beloved holiday tale is filled with memorable characters, stunning visuals, and a powerful message of redemption and compassion. The Friday evening performance will be ASL Interpreted. $12 to $24. 301-694-4744. zcallis@marylandensemble.org. weinbergcenter.org/shows/ a-christmas-carol-2023.

ESP Theatre Company Presents “Bah Humbug” — 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at New Spire Arts, 15 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Michael Harris & Friends bring the fully improvised version of “A Christmas Carol” to Frederick! Yes, you get to “choose your own Scrooge” as four brilliant improvisers turn your suggestions into a never seen before, never to be seen again reboot of the Dickens’ classic. Hilarious, unpredictable, and full of audience participation, “Bah Humbug” is everything you never knew was in the story of Scrooge. If you love “A Christmas Carol,” if you hate “A Christmas Carol,” then “Bah Humbug” is for you. $10 to $20. 301-600-2828. bhiller@cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org/ shows/bah-humbug-2023.

“Jingle Jingle All the Way” — 6 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre, 5 Willowdale Drive, Frederick. Way Off Broadway’s new all-ages Christmas production blends songs from Christmases past and present.

Prices vary. 301-662-6600.

WOB@wayoffbroadway.com. wayoffbroadway.com.

ESP Theatre Company Presents “Bah Humbug” — 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at New Spire

Arts, 15 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Michael Harris & Friends bring the fully improvised version of “A Christmas Carol” to Frederick!

Yes, you get to “choose your own Scrooge” as four brilliant improvisers turn your suggestions into a never seen before, never to be seen again reboot of the Dickens’ classic.

Hilarious, unpredictable, and full of audience participation, “Bah Humbug” is everything you never knew was in the story of Scrooge.

If you love “A Christmas Carol,” if you hate “A Christmas Carol,” then “Bah Humbug” is for you. $10 to $20. 301-600-2828. bhiller@cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org/shows/ bah-humbug-2023.

who brought you “Inebriated History.” Some of your favorite holiday stories are told on screen by actors imbibing in holiday cheer, while a team of actors acts out the antics live on stage. 18 and older. $6.50-$37.50. 301-694-4744. zcallis@marylandensemble.org. marylandensemble.org/inebriated-holiday.

Sunday Dec. 17 ETCETERA

“A Christmas Carol” — 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Join Maryland Ensemble Theatre for a heartwarming and magical journey as they bring Charles Dickens’ timeless classic to life on stage. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Ebenezer Scrooge, a grumpy old man who discovers the true meaning of Christmas with the help of three spirits. This beloved holiday tale is filled with memorable characters, stunning visuals, and a powerful message of redemption and compassion. The Friday evening performance will be ASL Interpreted. $12 to $24. 301-694-4744. zcallis@marylandensemble.org. weinbergcenter.org/shows/ a-christmas-carol-2023.

“Inebriated Holiday” — 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Laugh your way through the holidays in this original show from the team

Letters to Santa — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Dancing Bear Toys and Games, 15 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Drop off your letters to Santa during store hours. Don’t forget to include a return address so Santa can write back! The last day to drop off your letters to Santa will be Dec. 17. cimarketingassistant@gmail.com. fb.me/e/44ik7MHlo.

Christmas Cantata: Appalachian Winter — 11 a.m. to noon at Grace United Church of Christ, 25 E. Second St., Frederick. Grace Church’s choir is pleased to present Joseph Martin’s Christmas cantata “Appalachian Winter.” Led by director of music Nathan Strite, the choir will be joined by guest instrumentalists for this festive, Appalachian-inspired work of music. The event takes place during our regular morning service.

301-662-3312.

FAMILY Breakfast with Santa — 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Mount Airy Volunteer Fire Co., 702 N. Main

Sorry, Not Sorry: It’s Pablo-matic at the Brooklyn Museum

Catherine Morris

Lisa Small

THURSDAY, JAN. 4, 5:30-7 PM Brooklyn Museum curators discuss examining Pablo Picasso’s complicated legacy through a critical, feminist lens $8 museum members, $10 general public. To reserve your seat, call 301-739-5727

Come early to see Picasso on Paper: The Artist as Printmaker, 1923-72

Washington County Museum of Fine Arts 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown | wcmfa.org

72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 29

St., Mount Airy. Visit with Santa and have a delicious breakfast. Adults are $12, ages 6 to 12 are $8, and 5 and under eat free.

301-829-0100. info@mavfc.org. mavfc.org.

“Junior Claus” at OVT — 2 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. at Other Voices Theatre, 244B S. Jefferson St., Frederick. Junior Claus is the only son of Santa and Mrs. Claus. Like many teenagers, Junior is reluctant to take over the family business. Unsure of himself, Junior puts more faith in his technological inventions than in good old-fashioned Christmas magic, much to the chagrin of his father. But, when a sudden drop in Christmas spirit renders Santa incapable of making the great ride, Junior must take the reins. Meanwhile, a scheming, miserly elf takes advantage of Santa’s absence as he plots to turn the workshop into a for-profit enterprise. $15.

A Night in Bethlehem — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Thurmont, 7 Sunny Way, Thurmont. Kids and their families can explore Bethlehem as it was when Jesus was born. Hands-on crafts, refreshments and music. 301-471-9898. janjones0626@gmail.com. fbcthurmont.org.

MUSIC

Christmas Cantata — 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Buckeystown United Methodist Church, 3440 Buckeystown Pike, Buckeystown. BUMC’s Agape Choir performs the Christmas Cantata “Mary Did You Know” and the children perform a handbell selection during our 10:30 a.m .worship service. Stay for fellowship after the service. buckeystownumc.org.

BUY SELL REPAIR

Home for the Holidays — 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at The Maryland Theatre, 21 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. Elizabeth Schulze, conductor.

An annual tradition that rings in the holidays, the Maryland Symphony Orchestra offers a magical, sing-along celebration of the season with a program featuring beloved traditional and popular music. All ages. $44. 240-382-2623. nlushbaugh@marylandsymphony.org.

Rohrersville Band Holiday Concerth — 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Rohrersville Band Hall, 4315 Main St., Rohrersville . One of the oldest community bands in the nation as it concludes its 186th year. Selections will include some variations on familiar tunes of the season. The band is under the direction of Bill Hollin and Holly Feather and consists of more than 40 volunteer musicians. Light refreshments during the intermission. Concert is free but donations are accepted and appreciated.

301-471-9867. tjr2.grouse-outside@norton.me. angelfire.com/md/rohrersvilleband.

Frederick Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concerts — 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Frederick Community College Jack B. Kussmaul Theater, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. It’s that time of year again and we’ve dusted off our sleigh bells for our ever-popular Holiday Concert! This year will feature Tchaikovsky’s Suite from “The Nutcracker,” “Winter” from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, featuring Concert Master Alyssa Boxhill, and many more holiday favorites. $20 adults $15 students. 973-943-3748. rarenshaw2@gmail.com.

fredericksymphony.org.

Festival of Carols — 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Parish , 1914 Ballenger Creek Pike, Point of Rocks. Acclaimed eight-voice choir Third Practice, conducted by organist Brian Bartoldus, will perform Christmas music in the historic 1842 church.

All proceeds from a free-will offering will be donated to charity.

301-874-2995. tsquaretaylor@aol.com.

A Festival of Lessons and Carols for Christmas — 5 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. at Emmanuel Episcopal Parish, 16 Washington St., Cumberland. Led by Mountainside co-artistic directors Ryan Mullaney and Lyle Nordstrom, the Scholars of St. Cecilia, Mountainside Baroque’s resident chamber choir, has rung in the Christmas season since 2013 with a celebration that encompasses six centuries of Christmas music, including traditional carols, along with readings by local clergy and officials. Free. 301-338-2940. mountainside@mountansidebaroque.com. mountainsidebaroque.org.

THEATER “Jingle Jingle All the Way” — 12:30 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre, 5 Willowdale Drive, Frederick. Way Off Broadway’s new all-ages Christmas production blends songs from Christmases past and present.

Prices vary. 301-662-6600. WOB@wayoffbroadway.com. wayoffbroadway.com.

“A Christmas Carol” — 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick

St., Frederick. Join Maryland Ensemble Theatre for a heartwarming and magical journey as they bring Charles Dickens’ timeless classic to life on stage. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Ebenezer Scrooge, a grumpy old man who discovers the true meaning of Christmas with the help of three spirits. This beloved holiday tale is filled with memorable characters, stunning visuals, and a powerful message of redemption and compassion. The Friday evening performance will be ASL Interpreted. $12 to $24. 301-6944744. zcallis@marylandensemble.org. weinbergcenter.org/shows/ a-christmas-carol-2023.

“Inebriated Holiday” — 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Laugh your way through the holidays in this original show from the team who brought you “Inebriated History.” Some of your favorite holiday stories are told on screen by actors imbibing in holiday cheer, while a team of actors acts out the antics live on stage. 18 and older. $6.50-$37.50. 301-694-4744. zcallis@marylandensemble.org. marylandensemble.org/inebriated-holiday.

Monday Dec. 18 ETCETERA

Karaoke Nights — 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Hot Fired Arts, 1003 W. Seventh St., Suite D, Frederick. Sing karaoke and paint your own pottery. 301-788-9749. stayfocusedone@mac.com.

Whether you need a simple battery replacement, a grandfather clock cleaning or a complete restoration,

3 Year Warranty.

We Repair Grandfather Clocks – Repair Experts with 40+ Years of Experience to handle any issue with your precious heirloom.

If you can’t come to Us, Contact our Clock Repair Tech Lee Tang.

We BUY and SELL Luxury Watches through our Luxury Watch partner.

no job is too big or small.

FAST SERVICE

Get your clock repaired beffore the Holidays.

Pleaase call Technician Lee Tang.

703-343-5712

Call to Schedule and Appointment Office: 703-343-5712 www.247clockrepair.com 30 | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 72 HOURS

Store Hours: Monday – Friday: 10am – 5pm Saturday: 10am – 4pm

Visit Our New Store!

1485 Chain Bridge Road McLean, VA 22101

Pick Up & Drop Off Only 9441 Sharpsburg Pike Hagerstown, MD 21740

72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 31

Photo credits: Moy Dumadag, Sean Reel

DEC

December 16 & 23 UNTIL 9PM

IN DOWNTOWN FREDERICK Make this holiday season unforgettable by shopping local in Downtown Frederick! Discover unique gifts, indulge in delicious dining experiences, and create lasting memories right here in our community. On December 16, explore Downtown Frederick through the Holiday Scavenger Hunt and roast a marshmallow at fire pits around town! Round out your shopping list and entertain your holiday guests with all of the lights on December 23!

And parking is free every weekend through New Years!

32 | Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 | 72 HOURS

downtownfrederick.org SPONSORED BY