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Nestled along the Potomac River, Brunswick blends scenic beauty, rich history, and small-town warmth.
COLLECTIVE SOUL
Friday, April 10
CHIPPENDALES
Talk Dirty to Me World Tour
Saturday, May 2
JASON BONHAM’S
LED ZEPPELIN EVENING
Saturday, June 6
ANJELAH JOHNSON-REYES
The Family Reunion Tour
Saturday, April 11
THE WALLFLOWERS
Friday, May 15
HAWTHORNE HEIGHTS W/ Special Guests
Anberlin and Emery
Thursday, June 11
KENNY WAYNE SHEPHERD
Ledbetter Heights
30th Anniversary Tour
Saturday, April 18
ONE NIGHT OF QUEEN
Performed by Gary Mullen & The Works
Saturday, May 16
CHARLEY CROCKETT
Age of The Ram Tour
W/ Special Guest Nat Myers
Saturday, June 20
HAIRBALL
Balls To The Wall Tour
Friday, May 1
BRET MICHAELS
Live and Amplified
Saturday, May 23
CHRISTOPHER CROSS
Friday, June 26
SEEK& FIND
THE WILD SIDE OF PET OWNERSHIP
Cover photo courtesy of Venue Bouchon
FREDERICK KEYS REUNITE WITH
Beyond Golf, a Lifestyle
MUSINGS
A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Happy Spring!
We are headed into one of the best seasons of the year here in Frederick County, Maryland, when the region seems to wake up from a long winter's nap and respond with an explosion of beautiful, colorful nature and a bevvy of fun things to do in the sunny spring weather.
We've found many of them and put them on these pages!
Inside...
Find out more about Major League Baseball's return to Frederick's Harry Grove Stadium. After a few years' drought, this spring Orioles fans will once again be able to spot future ballers right here in Frederick, playing for our Keys.
Did you know that our region is home to several longstanding pet shops, staffed with experts who know all there is to know about being the best pet parent? If your kids have been bugging you for a bearded dragon, we'll tell you where to go so you're prepared.
These stories and so much more are inside these pages. So, take a look around and tell us what you think. Or, better yet - drop us a line and let us know what you have found out there in Frederick!
Molly Fellin Spence, Executive Editor
SPRING 2026
19 ISSUE 4
TEAM PULSE
PUBLISHER
Donna Elbert publisher@pulsepublishing.net
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Molly Fellin Spence molly@pulsepublishing.net
OPERATIONS MANAGER
Gabby Mongeau gabby@pulsepublishing.net
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Melissa Howes-Vitek melissa@pulsepublishing.net
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Ana Lazo Eastep
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Shuan Butcher, Chris Slattery, Naomi Pearson, Ellyn Wexler
FiND iT Frederick is a free quarterly publication of Pulse Publishing, LLC. Customer inquiries should be directed to Pulse Publishing, LLC, 12 S. Market Street, Suite 101, Frederick, MD 21701. All contents of this publication are protected by copyright and may not be reproduced in whole or in part for any reason without prior consent of the publisher.
For information about advertising in an upcoming issue of FiND iT Frederick, please contact Donna Elbert at 301-6626050, ext. 11, email donna@pulsepublishing.net or visit FindItFrederick.com.
If you have questions or comments regarding FiND iT Frederick, you may contact the editor, Molly Fellin Spence at molly@ pulsepublishing.net.
DISCLAIMER: The opinions expressed here are the views of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of FiND iT Frederick or Pulse Publishing, LLC
HISTORY LovesCOMPANY
Spend the night in 1820
Stay in a restored stone ironworker’s cottage in Catoctin Furnace, featuring three bedrooms with period furniture, a large stone fireplace, private deck and a modern kitchen and bath.
Spend the day exploring the stone ruins of the iron forge, visiting the blacksmith’s shop, the Collier’s log house and the old Fraley Store. Walk the African American cemetery trail and come face to face with two of the people who rest there through their forensic facial reconstructions in the Museum of the Ironworker.
For more information and reservations, go to: catoctinfurnace.org/forgemanshouse
Visit the Museum of the Ironworker 10am-4pm Saturday & Sunday Summer Hours 10am-4pm, Wednesday-Sunday
Where Fine Dining — and Fab Weddings — are a Family Affair
Whether you’re looking for a romantic fine dining experience a deux or a wedding extravaganza for 320 guests, Venue Bouchon in Taneytown fits the bill.
Mussels flown in weekly from Prince Edward Island, grilled pork tenderloin in an orange-thyme gastrique, escargot (bien sur!) — there’s even a rustic cocktail lounge in the Alpine Room, where comfy couches and Persian rugs set the scene for a pre-dinner drink or a snack and a cozy tête-à-tête
And while Chef Sebastian Bouchon is no Parisian — he was born and raised in Frederick County — he did move to New York to attend the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, training in fine dining and French cuisine and following in the footsteps of his Belgian-born dad, a classically trained French chef.
“I got into cooking very early on,” explains Bouchon, who helps run the Venue Bouchon with his family.
“That was the seed that was planted that started this journey for me.”
It’s a journey that eventually led back to the family business, a fine-dining restaurant and wedding venue on 5 acres where “the best service is the service that goes unnoticed.”
“Our first wedding was October of 2022,” says Bouchon, who notes that the restaurant is open Thursday through Saturday, with lunch service from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. and dinner service from 5-9 p.m.
“We originally opened up as a wedding venue, that was really our main bread and butter. The restaurant was more for us to expand our services and work throughout the year.
“Wedding season is spring, summer, fall, and in the winter it’s not quite as busy, but we definitely still focus on our weddings. They’re big events for us.”
Last October, he added, 16 weddings were held at Venue Bouchon, where the rustic-yet-refined vibe meets wide-open spaces, multiple dining rooms, and a 3,000 square foot seasonal tent. While the venue hosts a variety of private events, from corporate get togethers to dinner clubs to book clubs and even a martial arts award ceremony, a car rally, and several high school proms for 400 guests, weddings are the heart of this family-owned business.
“My family has invested everything we have into this place, and we keep investing and expanding,” says Bouchon. “There’s no one here who looks at it like it’s ‘just a job, just a paycheck’ — success is incredibly important to us, and we personalize each event, find out what the vision is, and bring it to life.”
– Chris Slattery
Venue Bouchon
AR DANCE MUSIC T
Monday - Friday 11 am - 9 pm Saturday 9 am - 4 pm Sunday 12 pm - 4 pm
The Wild Side
by
Photo
Heather Ross
by
of Pet Ownership:
By Naomi Pearson
Photo
ooking for a pet, but want something a little different?
We’re not talking about a dog, cat, hamster, bunny, or guinea pig. We’re talking about something a little more non-traditional, like a gecko or snake or veiled chameleon.
The good news is that there are several local, independent pet stores in the region that specialize in helping wannabe pet owners explore what’s right for them.
Critters, Reptiles & Exotics in the Monocacy Village Shopping Center in Frederick, has a few fun ways to meet unusual creatures before committing to them living in your home. You can host an in-store children’s birthday party with
animal presentations, or participate in an afterschool Junior Zookeeper program to teach kids about the lives of these animals in their native habitats, with live animals and hands-on activities.
“No matter what type of animal it is, understanding the habitat where they come from is the first step in being a good owner. For example, many people think veiled chameleons are from a humid rainforest, but they are actually from Yemen and Saudi Arabia, where the humidity is similar to that of Maryland,” says Critters, Reptiles & Exotics owner Christopher Enders.
There is no official definition of “exotic pets,” but they include invertebrates and arachnids such as insects, beetles, isopods, and tarantulas, or
by Naomi
Photo
Pearson
aquatic or amphibious creatures, like tropical fish, salamanders, axolotls, or frogs.
Small animals such as hedgehogs or sugar gliders are exotics, as well as most birds, which despite being bred in captivity technically are not domesticated – only tamed to varying degrees.
“Anything that isn’t indigenous to here is exotic,” says Bill Ridgeway, owner of Aquatic Creations in Ijamsville.
And Rick Bell, owner of Rick’s Fish and Pet Supply on Frederick’s Golden Mile, says that what was considered exotic years ago is now considered mainstream.
Enders agrees, saying: “I think each category has something that has become ‘traditional’ and tons of stuff that is still ‘exotic.’ For example, Ball Pythons and Corn Snakes have become the ‘traditional’ snake, but Boas and King Snakes are more of the exotics in that category.
“Bearded dragons would be a more ‘traditional’ lizard at this time, but a blue-tongued skink or keeled lizard would be more exotic.”
As the Frederick County Small Pets webpage says: “Exotic pets have exotic needs. Be sure to do your research.”
Ridgeway recommends reading books about them, rather than relying on the internet. “The library is free!” he says. Talk to those with experience and “pay attention to what information the pros give you and follow it,” says Bell.
“Make sure you have a healthy setup from the start,” says Enders.
“Know what is needed to develop the best home you can possibly supply,” Bell says. “Don't skimp.”
“Give the animal the correct environment to live in to reach a normal longevity,” says Ridgeway.
“They live a lot longer than many people realize,” says Enders. “For example, crested geckos and leopard geckos live about 20 years, and some female tarantulas can live up to 30 years!”
Tend to their social needs: “Fish are very attentive to their owners and the ones who care for them on a regular basis. They can even be taught to do tricks,” says Ridgeway. One of his fish barrel rolls on cue.
Finally, develop a local support system. Enders intends his shop to be “a community hub for exotic animal lovers, future pet parents, and curious minds alike.”
Add the more than 150 years of combined experience of Rick’s and Aquatic Creations and your personal exotic pet ecosystem has a great chance of thriving!
Background photo by Naomi Pearson; inset photos by Heather Ross
JoJo’s Restaurant & Taphouse is Frederick’s go-to destination for upscale comfort food with a Maryland seafood twist, paired with an exceptional craft beer experience. Featuring 30 rotating draft lines—including local favorites, regional brews, and some of Belgium’s finest—JoJo’s offers one of the area’s most diverse and elevated selections. Whether you’re stopping in for a casual drink, a night out with friends, or a full dining experience, our menu delivers something for everyone.
Looking to host a special event? JoJo’s also features a private dining room perfect for parties, celebrations, and gatherings of all kinds. With live music every Thursday and Friday night, exceptional service, and a welcoming atmosphere, JoJo’s is where Frederick comes together.
Dream Weaver
Photos courtesy of Chic Hair Braiding
Hawa Ballo wants people to be happy.
The entrepreneur from Mali has lived in Frederick since 2020, running a restaurant, Ayoka African Cuisine, as well as Chic Hair Braiding , a beauty salon that specializes in hair braiding.
“I’ve been in the business for 16 years now,” she says. “I opened the shop in 2022 and now I’ve decided to extend it.”
Growing up in Mali, hair braiding was a big part of Ballo’s culture, and when she emigrated to the U.S. she learned the art of braiding hair from her hairdresser sister.
“I’ve never been to hairdressing school, but this is something I’m passionate about,” she said. “People would come, and when they leave they were always happy. I thought, ‘Why not try to do that?’ This is how I learned.”
And this is the place to go for box braids, cornrows, micro braids, goddess braids, and the increasingly popular boho style, as well as wigs and weaves.
“I want to be the beauty shop where you come and you can have everything,” mused Ballo, already planning the future of the shop she expanded just a few months ago. “One or two barbers, makeup artists, because I’ll have room for that.”
Plenty of room, since Chic Hair Braiding levelled up from a busy 14-chair shop to a salon with a 40-chair capacity where Ballo and 15 braiders work on the tresses of clients of every age, race, gender and ethnicity.
She’s picked the right moment in time to blow up, just as the hair braiding industry is experiencing significant growth and popularity. Driven by cultural and fashion trends and the demand for protective hairstyles, and inspired by celebrities such as Alicia Keyes, Zendaya, Zoe Kravitz, Lupita Nyong’o — the list goes on and on.
For Ballo, though, it’s about building community and, yes, making people happy.
“I really want this to be a beautiful place where you can just leave with what you want,” she said.
– Chris Slattery
EXPLORE. ENJOY. EXPERIENCE.
Thurmont
Explore the hiking trails at Catoctin Mountain Park, enjoy Cunningham Falls State Park where you will find the largest cascading waterfall in Maryland, experience Covered Bridge History, take a stroll down Main Street, take a walk down the Trolley Trail, unwind at one of our scenic wineries/breweries, savor the freshness of our farmers markets, and orchards; enjoy local flavors at our restaurants.
WINERIES | ARTS | LOCAL DINING | HIKING
Murals on Main
Art & Wine Strolls Always a smile on Main Street
The United States is in the midst of its semiquincentennial (say that fast three times).
Hopefully, by now, you are aware that on July 4, 2026, our nation will celebrate its 250th birthday. This is “a momentous occasion that should be commemorated with a variety of events and activities that reflect the diversity and strength of our nation,” as proclaimed by Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater when she created the Frederick County U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission.
Frederick County predates the formation of our country by three decades. And throughout our nation’s history, Frederick County has played an important role.
This county’s residents were among the first in Maryland to formally protest British taxation, speaking out against the Stamp Act in 1765. Ten years later, local soldiers were marching off to fight for the American cause. During the Revolutionary War, the Catoctin Furnace supplied munitions to support the efforts for independence, The State of Maryland also called for the construction of a barracks in Frederick in 1777.
Local resident Thomas Johnson was elected the first governor of the new state of Maryland and John Hanson, from Frederick, served as a delegate to the Second Continental Congress in 1780 and elected its president in 1781.
Discover these revolutionary roots and centuries of stories for yourself. A number of tours, lectures, exhibitions, performances, and community events are scheduled to commemorate this historic milestone and will allow us all to reflect on the
Inset top right photo courtesy of Catoctin Furnace
ideals that continue to shape our shared story and how we continue to strive to become a more perfect union.
Here is just a brief sampling of the signature events planned in 2026:
On April 12, Music of the Regiment will present “Equal to any Band in this Country...,” a historically immersive program that combines dramatic readings with marches, opera arrangements, and 18th and 19th century American and European military music. The interpretation during the performance will bring to life the lived experience of soldiers and civilians during the American Revolutionary and Colonial eras through music and the use of original instruments and reproductions.
The week of Independence Day will include a number of Fourth of July observances and celebrations in municipalities throughout Frederick County, including community readings of the Declaration of Independence on July 8
From July 10-12, Landless Theatre Company will present “1776,” the Tony Award-winning musical by Sherman Edwards and Peter Stone, at New Spire Arts . This production will take you inside the hallowed halls of Philadelphia in one of the most defining moments in history when the likes of John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson and other patriots wrestled with the notion of declaring independence from Great Britain and the idea of forming a new nation.
Top banner grapic courtesy of Music of the Regiment
Bottom photo courtesy of visitfrederick.org
In December, the Catoctin Furnace will present “A Revolutionary Christmas,” a play by Reiner Prochaska, which is set on Dec. 24, 1778, on a small German farm in Western Maryland. This play tells the story of a family coping with war and personal tragedy. When an escaped “Hessian” soldier shows up, the family is at odds about what to do with the prisoner-of-war, which leads to them rediscovering the true spirit of Christmas.
This is but a sampling of activities taking place this year to commemorate this historic milestone. For example, the Museum of Frederick County History will unveil two new exhibits for the America 250th Anniversary:“Cultivating Independence” and Witnessing Revolution.” Both exhibits remain on view until Dec. 11, 2027.
To see the full calendar of local America 250 events, check out visitfrederick.org/America250.
Top and inset photo courtesy of visitfrederick.org; bottom photo courtesy of reinerprochaska.com
Wernick Method Jam Camp hosted by Ira Gitlin • Held in May
Bluegrass Academy for Kids • Held in August
FREDERICK (TJ) OFFICE
87 Thomas Johnson Drive, Suite 101, Frederick, MD 21702
6550 Mercantile Drive, Suite 106, Frederick, MD 21703
HOURS: Monday–Friday, 8am–5pm PHONE: 301-668-6347
MOUNT AIRY OFFICE
1311 South Main Street, Suite 304, Mount Airy, MD 21771
HOURS: Monday–Friday, 8am–5pm PHONE: 301-829-6146
URBANA OFFICE
3500 Campus Drive, Suite 101, Urbana, MD 21704
HOURS: Monday–Friday, 8am–5pm PHONE: 301-874-6107
If you’ve spent any time in downtown Frederick lately, you’ve likely seen a splash of bright, sunny yellow rolling past the spires. No, you haven't been teleported to London — you’ve just spotted Maryland Double Deckers, the city's newest, most vibrant way to explore.
Owned by locals who wanted to bring a bit of flair to Frederick’s historic charm, the authentic, vintage open-top bus has quickly become a community icon. Whether you're a lifelong resident or a weekend visitor, there is something inherently "main character" about waving to pedestrians from the top deck while cruising down Market Street in a giant lemoncolored landmark.
Maryland Double Deckers offers sightseeing tours that dive into Frederick’s rich Civil War history and architectural gems, and also can be the ultimate party wheels. Book the bus for a wedding, and whisk your entire bridal party from Carroll Creek to the reception in a rolling photo op that nobody can miss. Or try it for a corporate event or private birthday bash, for a literal elevated perspective on the city.
The fleet's star is a vintage 1966 Routemaster, a genuine London workhorse that served some
of the UK’s most historic streets until 2004. After retirement from London service, it came to the states via an American tour company and was carefully restored and reimagined for sightseeing. Now it has an open-air upper deck seating 32, and an enclosed lower deck for 24 travelers.
Maryland Double Deckers offers regular excursions, such as Reptile Adventures on the Double, that pairs a hands-on animal experiences with a city tour ending in a picnic at Baker Park. For the adults, the Brew with a View and Escape to the Grapes tours offer a breezy way to sample local craft beverages while taking in the rolling hills of Frederick County.
No matter how you experience Maryland Double Deckers, it’s more than just transportation; it’s an experience that makes Frederick feel like the brightest place on earth. Grab your sunglasses, head upstairs, and let the spring breeze do the rest.
Photos courtesy of Maryland Double Deckers
RINGING IN SPRING
LINGANORE WINECELLARS info@linganorewines.com
301-831-5889
As Maryland’s largest and oldest familyowned vineyard, Linganore Winecellars features one of the state’s most diverse wine portfolios. Known for its award-winning wines and vibrant festivals, Linganore welcomes everyone to enjoy wine in a fun, relaxed, and inclusive setting.
SIMPLE THEORY WINE CO. drinkwithus@linganorewines.com
301-969-4446
Simple Theory Wine Co is a contemporary expression of winemaking rooted in three generations of Maryland vintners. Our thoughtful approach to the art and science of winemaking allows us to craft refined, sustainably produced, small-lot wines.
Photos courtesy of Simple Theory Wine Co.
Photos courtesy of Linganore Winecellars
THE FREDERICK ARTS COUNCIL
frederickartscouncil.org 301-662-4190
advances and invests in a vibrant and cohesive arts community for the people of Frederick County and for our visitors.The Frederick Arts Council envisions a Frederick County where the arts drive the culture, education, economy and everyday life of its citizens. The Arts are vital to the quality of life that all of us enjoy in Frederick County. Whether you’re engaged in the arts as an audience member, patron, educator, or artist, the FAC is your arts ally. Our purpose is to foster an environment where the arts may flourish in our community through grants and scholarships, robust programs, arts advocacy, and links to essential resources.
FREDERICK ARTS COUNCIL'S SKY STAGE
skystagefrederick.com
A large-scale public art installation and outdoor amphitheater, located at 59 South Carroll Street in downtown Frederick. FAC's Sky Stage serves as a quality performance and exhibition space for rising artists and community groups, one can experience anything from salsa under the stars to yoga to independent film to children’s storytime. Sky Stage is open late spring to early fall.
RINGING IN SPRING
THURMONT MAIN STREET
E Main St Thurmont
301-271-7313 ext. 219
thurmontmainstreet.com
Discover charming Thurmont with a stroll down its historic Main Street, lined with locally owned shops and inviting restaurants. Experience Colorfest, one of the East Coast’s largest artisan craft shows, drawing visitors each fall.
THURMONT TROLLEY TRAIL
Thurmont Trolley Trail, Thurmont
410-908-1789
thurmont.com/2152/Parks-Recreation
The Thurmont Trolley Trail is a 2.0 mile trail installed over the former trolley tracks that serviced Thurmont in the 1900’s. The existing trail begins at the historical trolley car and promotes a glimpse at Thurmont’s historical transportation services. Today, the trail is heavily used by residents and visitors for hiking, jogging, biking, and enjoying nature.
Photos this page and top of next page
courtesy of
Thurmont Main Street Inset
Trolley Trail by Katie Despeaux
CUNNINGHAM FALLS
14274 William Houck Dr, Thurmont 301-271-757 | CunninghamFalls.StatePark@maryland.gov Cunningham Falls State Park, nestled in the scenic Catoctin Mountains of Maryland, boasts stunning waterfalls, serene hiking trails, and abundant wildlife, offering visitors a tranquil escape into nature's embrace.
ALIVE
@ FIVE downtownfrederick.org/aliveatfive
Enjoy Alive @ Five in Downtown Frederick, Maryland: an outdoor happy hour featuring live music, local craft beverages, and great food. Held every Thursday from 5–8 PM, May 7 through September 24, it’s the perfect way to unwind and socialize.
Photo courtesy of
FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS
FAC’s Frederick Festival of the Arts invites art lovers to enjoy a showcase of finest national artists. This year, the Festival of the Arts will take place June 13th and 14th along Carroll Creek (10am - 5pm both days), open to the public and free admission. Exhibitors are curated by an independent jury and feature diverse mediums including jewelry, clay, metal, leather, digital, fiber, wood, mixmedia, printmaking/drawing, photography, painting, and sculpture.
JUNE 13-14 |10AM -5PM | ADMISSION IS FREE
Come experience pure luxury
At Orchid Oasis Day Spa, we believe that self-care is essential to living a happy and healthy life. Established in March 2023, Orchid Oasis Day Spa was Maryland’s first Japanese Head Spa, offering specialized scalp and skin care treatments. Our goal is to promote relaxation, rejuvenation, and overall well-being in a calm, luxurious setting.
• Private Treament Rooms
• Customized Facials
• Men’s Beard Facials
• Japanese Head Spa Treatments
• “Scalpacial” Treatments (Head Spa with full European facial and massage)
• Korean Facials & Salmon PDRN Facials
• Foot Facials & Soaks
• Back Facials with Hot Stone Massage
• Waxing
• Glo2Facial
• Celluma Light Therapy
• Micro/Nano-Needling
• Chemical Peels
Orchid Oasis Day Spa is owned by Chasity, a Licensed Esthetician and Trichologist with 25 years of dermatology experience. She provides customized skincare solutions in a relaxing environment, using medical-grade products and personalized skin and scalp evaluations.
Kaylee, an Aveda Institute graduate, is a licensed Scalp Specialist, Esthetician, Blow Dry Stylist, and certified eyelash technician, specializing in natural beauty enhancement and elegant styling.
WHAT WE OFFER: 520 Snowshill Street | Spa loft #7 | Frederick |
• Hair Styling
• Mommy & Me Services
• Teen & Tween Services
• Spa Parties
• Eyelash Extensions
• Red Light Therapy
seanxreel.com
will once again be affiliated with our beloved Baltimore Orioles this upcoming baseball season.
By Shuan Butcher
the country, received the devastating news that Major League Baseball’s constriction plan would take the number of affiliated minor league baseball teams from 160 down to 120.
And unfortunately, the Frederick Keys were caught in the crossfire.
Baseball fans in our community took that news pretty hard. After all, the Frederick Keys had been the High A affiliate of the O’s for more than three decades. In addition, attendance for games at Harry Grove Stadium always seem to rank pretty high within minor league baseball.
Being a farm team for a Major League Baseball club brought so much excitement in Frederick.
Photo courtesy of Frederick Keys; baseball photo: istock.com/youngID
You would get to see players such as Manny Machado, Matt Wieters, Jonathan Schoop, Austin Hayes, Dean Kremer, DL Hall, and so many others play right in our backyard as part of their journey to the big leagues. You got to witness their growth and their development firsthand before they played for the Orioles. Then, if you went to Camden Yards you had a stronger connection to those players because you felt like you knew them.
Although the Keys were part of the MLB Draft League these past five years, it was definitely different. In addition to not being a feeder program for future O’s players, the baseball season was much shorter, to the dismay of serious fans. Instead of games going from April to September, the season only went from June to September.
That all changes this year, as the Keys will once again be the Baltimore Orioles’ High-A affiliate!
Attain Sports and Entertainment, the ownership group of the Frederick Keys, as well as the city and state officials had made this a priority since we lost the farm team designation.
This was not only possible thanks in part to their dedication, determination, and leadership, but also thanks to the city receiving $39 million from the Maryland Stadium Authority to make major upgrades to the 35-year-old stadium. These changes will provide significant improvements to the clubhouses and bullpens in order to meet current PDL (Professional Development League) standards for the league.
Photo courtesy of Frederick Keys
Those include a new and larger clubhouse to accommodate the growth in team staff, particularly around data and analytics. It also provides direct access from the locker room to the field without having to go through fan areas, as well as a gym onsite, a performance building for hitting and pitching, moving the bullpens off of the field, and more.
As the sound of bats cracking will once again be heard at Harry Grove Stadium starting in April, we can experience some of the wonderful fan experiences that we have come to expect at a Frederick Keys game. There will be lots of fun promotions, 18 fireworks shows, and some great family friendly entertainment.
We will also see Collin Woody, who played in 79 games for the Keys in 2018, return to Frederick as the team manager. Baseball fans may also get to witness the likes of Orioles 2024 first-round pick Vance Honeycutt and other future O’s playing again right here in our hometown. They’ll be playing in the South Atlantic League against possible future MLB players for the Yankees, Nationals, Pirates, Phillies, Mets, and other teams.
Check out their full schedule at frederickkeys.com F facebook.com/milb d @frederickkeys
Photos courtesy of The Frederick Keys
A Taste of Seoul in Frederick
Photos by Molly Fellin Spence
A delightful secret for lovers of French-Asian pastries awaits on Frederick’s Golden Mile — Tous les Jours. This international bakery chain offers a unique fusion experience, bringing the meticulous artistry of Korean-style baking to the region. The name, which translates to "every day" in French, perfectly captures the bakery's ethos: creating fresh, high-quality baked goods for daily enjoyment.
Stepping into Tous les Jours is an immediate immersion into a light, airy and fragrant space. Unlike traditional American bakeries, customers select their items using trays and tongs, encouraging an exploration of all the offerings in row upon row of brightly lit display cases.
The bakery offers excellent takes on classics, such as buttery almond or chocolate croissants and crusty baguettes. But the true stars are the Asian-inspired creations. The sweet, creamy milk bread (often available in loaves or individual rolls) is a consistent favorite. Savory options include delicate pastry pockets filled with ham and cheese or sweet potato. For a truly unique experience, try the patbingsu, a refreshing
shaved ice dessert topped with sweet red bean paste and fresh fruit, especially popular during the warmer months.
The coffee and tea selection is equally impressive, offering the perfect accompaniment to any pastry. Whether you're grabbing a morning coffee and a light, cloud-like slice of cake, or picking up a beautifully decorated whole cake for a special occasion, Tous les Jours delivers on its promise of daily indulgence.
It's more than just a bakery; it's a sweet escape that beautifully bridges two distinct culinary traditions right here in Frederick.
APRIL 3 - 26
MAY 15 – JUNE 14
By Duncan Macmillan & Jonny Donahoe
By Arthur Miller
OVER THE
THE EDGE A BeneathDay&Above the Valley
Northern Virginia’s
Luray Caverns & Skyline Drive
By Ellyn Wexler
Photo courtesy of Luray Caverns, VA
Step inside Luray Caverns, and the outside world disappears. The temperature drops to a steady 54 degrees. Sound softens. Light fades. Aboveground, sunlight glints off wet stone and the Shenandoah Valley smells sharp and green. Few day trips deliver such an instant shift in perspective — down beneath ancient rock, then back up to mountain ridges rolling into the distance.
Guided tours lead visitors through soaring chambers, mirrored pools, and formations shaped over millions of years. Rooms bear evocative names: the Great Stalacpipe Organ, where stalactites produce musical tones; the Winding Way, a twisting gallery of delicate draperies; and the Luray Palace of the Giants, home to massive stalagmites and stalactites rising as high as 90 feet. At Dream Lake, the ceiling reflects so perfectly it feels as if you’re floating among the formations.
“Luray offers a unique combination of natural history and sensory experiences,” said Bill Huffman, the caverns’ director of marketing and public information. Pairing the caverns with Skyline Drive in one day, he said, delivers “both an underground experience and expansive mountain views.”
That contrast defines the outing. Cool stone gives way to sunlit ridges; hushed chambers open onto long vistas. With thoughtful planning—“research what type of experience you’re looking to fulfill so you can budget your time and travel efficiently when visiting Shenandoah National Park,” advised Allysah Fox, the park’s visual information specialist and public information officer — the day unfolds at an unhurried, restorative pace.
General admission to Luray Caverns includes a tour along with access to the Car & Carriage Caravan Museum, Shenandoah Heritage Village, and Toy Town Junction. Its proximity to Shenandoah National Park’s Thornton Gap Entrance Station (mile 31.5) makes the transition from underground wonder to mountaintop panorama nearly seamless.
Guided tours lead visitors through soaring chambers , mirrored pools, and formations shaped over millions of years .
Hazel Mountain Overlook is known for early wildflowers and layered ridges , Crescent Rock Overlook shines after fog or spring rain, and The Point Overlook offers one of the park’s best south-facing vistas as foliage fills in .
By late morning, the drive up Skyline Drive begins.
Mile by mile, spring reveals itself along the Blue Ridge. “Early spring brings soft greens, budding trees, and blooming redbuds, dogwoods, and wildflowers along Skyline Drive,” Fox said. As April turns to May, “the forest becomes lush with rolling green ridges.”
Later in the day, Shenandoah’s atmosphere often shifts again. “The valleys are frequently shrouded
Photos courtesy ofShenandoah National Park
in lingering fog from the morning, creating the illusion of ocean waves — a ‘fog ocean,’” Fox said.
The mountain air, typically about 10 degrees cooler than the valley, adds to the sense of renewal.
“Spring is calmer than the fall foliage season, but noticeably livelier than winter,” she noted, with quiet stretches punctuated by busy overlooks on weekends, especially in May.
With more than 75 overlooks along 100 miles, Skyline Drive offers countless scenic pauses. Thornton Hollow Overlook (mile 27) delivers a classic Shenandoah view with fresh green slopes. Hazel Mountain Overlook (mile 33) is known for early wildflowers and layered ridges, Crescent Rock Overlook (mile 44) shines after fog or spring rain, and The Point Overlook (mile 55) offers one of the park’s best south-facing vistas as foliage fills in.
Wildlife adds energy to the drive. White-tailed deer are common, especially in the morning and evening, and wild turkeys are often spotted crossing the road or foraging near overlooks. By May, black bears become increasingly active, while spring migration fills the forest with song. Drivers should observe the 35-mph speed limit, Fox cautioned, as wildlife frequently crosses the road this time of year.
For those eager to stretch their legs, Shenandoah also offers short hikes that don’t require a fullday commitment. Routes can be chosen “based on physical ability and desired feature,” Fox said. Waterfall hikes are particularly rewarding in spring, though many are steep, while short climbs such as Stony Man Summit, Bearfence Rock Scramble, and Hightop Mountain Summit
Photos courtesy ofShenandoah National Park
Waterfall hikes are particularly rewarding in spring , though many are steep, while short climbs such as Stony Man Summit, Bearfence Rock Scramble, and Hightop Mountain Summit reward hikers with sweeping views.
reward hikers with sweeping views. Even brief outings require preparation with the National Park Service’s “10 Essentials,” including water, food, first-aid supplies, and navigation tools. (More information is available at nps.gov/ articles/10essentials.htm.)
Luray Caverns
101 Cave Hill Road, Luray, Virginia luraycaverns.com F facebook.com/ d @handle
Shenandoah National Park multiple entrances along Skyline Drive, including Thornton Gap near Luray via U.S. Route 211 nps.gov/shen
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Laundry on Wheels Brings a Cycle of Hope for the Unhoused
It’s a question many retirees struggle with: what hobbies should they pick up once they reach the golden years? Frederick native Wade Milyard opted out of the usual pastimes and decided to devote himself instead to spinning. And rinsing. And drying. And folding.
He does it all as Fresh Step Laundry, in a 30-yearold bus nicknamed “Leaky Lucy” that’s equipped with three clothes washers and dryers, which he uses to wash the clothing of the unhoused population of Frederick County.
“It was completely out of my wheelhouse, and it still is, at times,” says the Frederick native, who started his career in the Coast Guard and ended it as a K-9 unit cop. “So it took a lot of thought, a lot of contemplation, trying to figure out, ‘Is this really what I need to do?
“To be honest with you, there were times — many times — before we got Fresh Step up and running, before I even retired, when I would think to myself,
‘Are you even smart enough to do something like this?’”
But whenever self-doubt crept in, he says, something would happen to encourage him to “stay the course.”
His wife, Paige, is a huge support, and his grown children provide encouragement and help when they can. Lion’s Clubs and other charities have also reached out with interest and financial assistance.
It doesn’t hurt that Milyard, whose retirement plan wasn’t based on some arbitrary magic number on his 401K but his principles as a Christian, is answering to a higher authority. Because while he, like most people of faith, has always relied on God to hear his prayers, guide his decisions, and protect himself and his loved ones, Milyard’s decision to spend his post-career years helping the poor and marginalized among us was a direct order, straight from the top.
by
Photos
Molly Fellin-Spence
Photo courtesy of Fresh Step Laundry
‘GOING HARD’ FOR GOD
The best way to get the story of what happened to Milyard in the spring of 2024 is to watch a clip from the CBS Evening News. Correspondent Steve Hartman details the incident: responding to a domestic dispute at a homeless camp where, after “wrapping things up with the couple,” the not-yetretired police officer “says he heard a voice … he believes it was God, and it said, quote, ‘Ask them about their laundry.’”
If that sounds weird, it’s OK. Milyard understands.
“Deep down I know where all this is coming from,” he says. “In today’s society it’s a lot easier to push that voice to the background, to still try to live the right way and do nice things for people.
“But for Fresh Step — for me — there’s no other way to be than loud and proud about it.”
“Not proud,” he immediately corrects himself — this is a man who not only walks the talk, he talks the talk of his faith with great care, insight, and accuracy. “But loud and undeterred by what society might think.”
When some viewers responded to the Steve Hartman segment with comments such as, “Well, you lost when you said he heard a voice,” Milyard did more than just turn the other cheek — he doubled down.
“That, to me, is motivation,” he says. “That means I’m doing what Christ wants me to do. I embrace that: it just means we need to go harder.”
MAKING AN IMPACT
Whatever God may or may not have said to Milyard two years ago, the 2.3 billion Christians worldwide can’t deny that in Matthew 25:36 he, literally, said “I needed clothes and you clothed me.”
Above: Leaky Lucy, the refurbished 30-year-old bus where Fresh Step Laundry washes and dries clothes for the unhoused.
That’s why Fresh Step partnered with On Our Own of Maryland, the peer-led addiction recovery nonprofit where Milyard operates out of Leaky Lucy twice a week.
“We’re there from 8:30-11 a.m. for drop-off and we stay onsite until all the laundry is done,” he explains. “Then we just pack up and go home, and everybody’s stuff is either given directly back to them or secured in a location until they can come back and pick it up.”
Most of the people using the service are unhoused, he says, adding that, “They could be sleeping on the street or in a tent, living in a car or jumping from house to house to stay out of the weather. There’s different types of unhoused, which I never really even thought about until we started this mission.”
Through word of mouth, social media, the Department of Health and Human Services, rescue missions and various nonprofits, the news about Fresh Step keeps spreading.
“I’ve had schools reach out to me when I first started,” says Milyard, “and starting in March we’ll
Background:
Fitting out the laundry-onwheels that offers hope and fresh clothing to those who need it most.
be serving one of the schools here in Frederick County to help the unhoused students — that’s our next goal.”
It’s not the only goal for Milyard, who says that he’s in contact with the handful of people in this country who are doing similar outreach, providing not just laundry but things such as mobile shower facilities to people who have no other way to keep clean and keep hope alive.
Milyard talks about how the brutal weather kept Lucky Lucy away for three weeks this winter, but on the first day back at On Our Own “this guy jumped into my arms and gave me a hug.
“It really showed that what we’ve been led to do with Fresh Step is really making an impact,” he says. “People are relying on us.”
— Chris Slattery
Photos courtesy of Fresh Step Laundry
Retired police officer Wade Milyard (right) with a fellow Fresh Step Laundry volunteer.
Wade Milyard and his daughter
Jocelen Milyard washing the bus that washes the clothes.
PARKS AND RECREATION
The City of Frederick Parks and Recreation Department has provided citizens in the area with quality and affordable programs for over 80 years. Year-round activities include sports, fitness, and leisure for all ages, challenging and educational children’s activities, the William Talley Fitness Center, and an abundance of unique programming
Rustic
Perched atop one of the highest ridgelines in Gettysburg, framed by historic wood and stone architecture and stunning views of historic Gettysburg battlefields and Hunter Lake, The Lodges at Gettysburg is a destination unlike any other in the area.
It’s peaceful here with a timeless tranquility and rustic elegance that settle you into a relaxed state of mind. Beautifully maintained grounds and lodging are surrounded by 63 acres of rolling Gettysburg countryside, the perfect backdrop for family vacations, outside-the-box meetings and romantic weddings with a dash of historic charm.
685 Camp Gettysburg Road
Gettysburg, PA 17325 717-642-2500
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MARYLAND GOLF at its finest
With a county population of 300,000 and 13 golf courses, Clustered Spires has earned “Best of Frederick Golf Course”! Golf Digest awards Clustered Spires a HHHH rating. Clustered Spires reputation is a great conditioned golf course with wonderful greens and considered the best value golf course in central Maryland.
