Frederick, MD August 2024

Posh Yourself

• GENTLE, NATURAL INGREDIENTS

• NO PARABENS, PARAFFINS, SULFATES, LANOLIN OR FILLERS

• LOTS OF NATURAL BUTTERS AND ESSENTIAL OILS

• MANY VEGAN OPTIONS

• NO ANIMAL TESTING

Cuteness Overload!

The Kids & Pets Edition is always one of my favorites. I suppose because of the immense joy that my children bring to my life and the significant impact children make on families and communities in general. Children are not merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow; they are the foundation upon which our society stands. Their innocence, curiosity and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. Children represent our hardest work and greatest investment and we are happy to feature some cute and meaningful ways to celebrate and appreciate our children in this edition.

And, who could forget pets? This special kind of companionship can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets provide us with unconditional love, the opportunity to learn, grow and develop essential life skills in a nurturing environment. And who could ignore the special bond people of all ages have with their furry friends? The bond is often deep and significant, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility and companionship.

One important aspect that children and pets share in common is that they need us. Our care, attention and intention shape how they are raised and who they become. We hope this edition inspires you to pour a little extra into the children and pets in your life. Love & snuggles,

KRISTEN WOJDAN, EDITOR @FREDERICKLIFESTYLE

August 2024

PUBLISHER

Amber Smith | Amber.Smith@CityLifestyle.com

EDITOR

Kristen Wojdan | Kristen.Wojdan@CityLifestyle.com

PUBLICATION MANAGER

Sierra Moore | Sierra.Moore@CityLifestyle.com

INTERN

Brenlynn Falcon-Mase

Maddie Wojdan

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Linda Ditch, Leann Parker, Kim Wilson

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Becky Conway Photography, Jennifer Rosaria Film & Photography, Kristi Lynn Photography, Kristol Kumar, Leann Parker

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

city scene

@HINZISKITCHEN_FREDERICK

1: Kids having a blast with Caddy Wagon Mobile Golf. Bring the fun to your next event! (TheCaddyWagon.com) 2: Dr. Lo celebrates his 40th anniversary in business at the Advanced Chiropractic and Nutritional Healing Center! (DoctorLo.com) 3: Colonial Jeweler’s Breakfast at Tiffany’s event for the Hurwitz Breast Cancer Fund was incredibly fun! (PinkRibbonFrederick.org) 4: Savor authentic Pakistani home cooking and warm hospitality at Hinzi’s Kitchen in Downtown Frederick. (HinzisKitchen.com) 5: Casey enjoys pizza and wine at Idiom Brewing, now serving food at their Expressions kitchen. (IdiomBrewing.com) 6: Key City Foundation volunteers enjoy the annual Octoberfest 5K; this year it will be held on October 5th. (KeyCityFoundation.org) 7: All smiles at Buckeystown Veterinary Hospital which provides expert care and boarding for your pets. (BuckeystownVet.com)

Restore & Transform Retreat: Cultivating Health & Wholeness for Women with Seventh Balance

Feeling overwhelmed and struggling with health issues like IBS, SIBO or Hashimoto's? Join Seventh Balance on August 25th, 2024, at Caboose Farm for a transformative one-day Christian-focused retreat. The expert-guided program is tailored to your needs, in order to help you manage these conditions and improve your overall well-being. Located in a serene, supported environment, you will leave with individualized action plans that minimize your efforts and maximize your results. Sign up today! SeventhBalance.com

Photography: Kristi Lynn Photography

Second Annual School Supplies Drive Hosted by Rohner Wellness Consulting

Rohner Wellness Consulting is thrilled to host its second annual school supply drive on Tuesday, August 13, 2024 from 4:30-6:30PM at SHIFT Work +Play. This year’s theme features a book exchange, so bring your used books to swap for new-to-you books (minus one which will be directly donated to Andrea’s house). Please bring new school supplies or a $2 cash donation. For more info or to find local drop box locations to drop off donations, visit RohnerWellness.com

Dani Gurrie Brings Your Marketing and Events into Focus

Elevate your business events with unparalleled expertise. With a proven track record in event planning and marketing, Dani Gurrie, founder of Promo Circus, brings creativity, precision, and results to every project. From concept to execution, Dani ensures that your event will impress and drive success. Whether you’re hosting an event, or participating in an existing one, you can trust Dani to boost brand visibility and engagement. She will help set objectives and reach them! PromoCircus.com

Photography: Provided by Promo Circus

Promo Nights with the Frederick Keys are Fun for the Entire Family

The Frederick Keys has a summer filled with fun promotions for the entire family! Every Sunday play catch in the outfield for the first 30 minutes after the gates open. Check out the Cancer Awareness Night with Jersey Auction on August 4th or Art in the Park with Jersey Auction on August 30th. And, of course, enjoy a pre-game concert with the Waterboyz on August 10th and the annual Guns vs. Hoses softball game on August 31st. FrederickKeys.com

Photography: Provided by Frederick Keys

Soles Of Love is Collecting New Shoes for Local Children

Soles of Love hosted two major events in July, In The Garden and First Bloom, to collect new shoes for local children in need. Over the past 13 years, more than 31,000 pairs of shoes have been collected for children between 5-18 years of age. Donations are collected (through July 29th) from individuals and local businesses and then distributed through local nonprofits during the start of the school year and Thanksgiving break. This year, the goal is to collect 5,000 pairs of shoes! SolesOfLove.org

Photography: Kristi Lynn Photography

BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL ENRICHMENT PROGRAM

Find the ... ...child care you need, ...convenience you require, ...flexibility you demand, ...fun your child wants, ...support they deserve with the YMCA of Frederick County Before and After School Enrichment Program.

Conveniently located in elementary schools throughout Frederick County, REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR THE 2024-25 school year.

LOCAL BUSINESS LEADERS SHARE ABOUT THEIR FURRY FAMILY MEMBERS

What do you love most about what you do?

Working with people who are looking to purchase a home! It’s nice to help someone achieve their dream of owning a home, especially for first time homebuyers. Working from home allows me to be at home with Paige and be here when my family needs me.

Tell us about Lady Paige!

At one pound and fourteen ounces, it was love at first sight when we picked her up! Paige is a big dog in a small dog’s body. She is very playful with a spunky personality and knows that she

Laura Grabowski & Lady Paige

Lafayette Federal Credit Union

is in charge. She is protective, loves to play outside and chews on sticks. When I am working she wants to be right next to me. She looks out the window and lets me know if anyone is outside. Paige loves to roll over for belly rubs; she is very affectionate and loves to cuddle.

What are some special things you do for Lady Paige?

We celebrate birthdays and holidays. This past Easter, Paige had her own Easter egg hunt with six hidden eggs. For her birthday, she usually gets a pup cup from Starbucks or an ice cream treat from Rita’s! For Christmas, she gets her own stocking full of new toys, treats and whatever she needs.

What do you want people to know about Lady Paige?

We have a special bond. She spends her days in the office with me curled up in her bed. On the weekend, she will come in and wait for me, not understanding it’s the weekend and not a work day. She loves to be outside sunning herself on the patio or exploring her backyard, as she barks at everything that moves.

LFCU-FirstMtg-LauraGrabowski.ZipFor Home.com

Dr. Brian Hall & Remy

Brian D. Hall, DDS, PA

What do you love most about what you do?

Although I have been an Endodontist since 1999, I started my own practice in 2002. I not only wanted to help patients with their tooth pain, but also wanted to do it in a way to provide a positive experience. I love to see each of my patient’s reactions when I am finished with the procedure and they have just had an awesome experience.

Tell us about Remy!

Remy came into my life over seven years ago. He was a big change for our family since a border collie requires a lot of attention. That being said, it was such a positive life change that has been so rewarding. He keeps me moving and motivated to get off the couch. He has such a loving personality and is very social to anyone he meets.

Is Remy “part of the family?”

Yes, he is definitely one of my “kids.” He typically follows me around the house and likes to go where I am going.  He loves going to stores, especially when he thinks they have treats at the checkout counter!

What are some of Remy’s favorite things to do?

Remy loves to hike, but I have to say his favorite thing to do is play in the hose.

If I go into the backyard, he will run over to the hose and stare at it, waiting for me to squirt it at him. He also loves playing in the leaves in the fall and of course he loves the snow!

What do you want people to know?

Dogs in general bring so much joy to your life. No matter how bad of a day I have had, I can always count on the fact that Remy will be patiently and eagerly waiting for me at the front door when I get home from the office. He runs out to welcome me home and all the stress of the day is quenched from a simple lick on the face. I truly believe that some of God’s angels are dogs! Their unconditional love for their humans sets such a positive example for everyone!

BrianDHall.com

Dr. Kevin Oakes with April & Winnie

What do you love most about what you do?

Transforming people’s smiles and lives.

Tell us about April and Winnie!

April is ten years young and acting ever so younger since Winnie joined the pack. April was in need of a little best friend to keep in line! These two Golden Retrievers are two peas in a pod and are just so happy to be around my whole family. They love the summertime and being able to spend the weekends with us in and around the pool. And, they are never far away from a crinkling bag of chips!

What was your first pet?

I was born into a family with a German shepherd named Jackie and I have been with dogs ever since. My first pet

Dental Arts of Frederick

with my wife was a Golden Retriever named Ambur. We have had three more since, with Winnie being our newest family member!

What is a special memory?

We would travel to Austria to go skiing at Christmas time with the whole family and at the end of a long day of skiing, Ambur would run outside and sled down on her belly. My kids would be chasing after her and boy, did they all sleep well at night!

What are you most excited about at the end of your work day?

Coming home to my pups and knowing just how excited they will be to see me every day!  DentalArtsOfFrederick.com

Doug Gardiner & Freddy

The Maryland & Delaware Group of Long & Foster

What do you love most about what you do?

I love being able to give guidance on not only the homes for my clients and their families to live in, but also helping them plan ahead to have solid investments.

How many pets do you have?

We have three dogs: Bailey, Frederick and Ellie. My boy, Freddy, is with me in this pic.

Tell us about Freddy!

We got Frederick, aka Freddy, about a month before Covid. He was supposed to be a companion to our older

dog, but is very bonded with me and I take him everywhere. He loves to ride in the car. He also loves to escape the yard when someone leaves a gate unlocked. We live in Baker Park and he always heads downtown as if he wants to go to the pub or shopping. He loves people and we’re lucky that kind strangers either bring him home or call us to get him.

What are some of Freddy’s favorite things?

He loves to go for walks and have us throw toys to chase. He also loves to sunbathe by the pool. And, he LOVES Baker Park!

MarylandExperts.com

“I

What do you love most about what you do?  I love flowers. I love what I do so I have never worked a day in my life!

Tell us about Bella and Tootsie! Bella, a tricolored mix of Jack Russel and Whippet, is my soulmate and best friend. Tootsie is my newest pet and I love her energy.

What is a special memory?

I can remember first seeing Bella’s twomonth-old face looking over a cage. It was love at first sight.

What do you want people to know?

I love my furred children and would help any animal if I could.

What is one dream you have?

I would love to retire to an old barn one day with some land and take care of rescues.

OryCustomFlorals.com

Melissa Lentz with Max & Jack

Mjach Designs

What do you love most about what you do?

Working with people. It’s what makes me excited and passionate about the work we do.

Tell us about Max and Jack!

Max (the black and white MOO kitty) was rescued from Canton in Baltimore. He is 19 years old! He still has an outgoing personality and at times will give you a “side eye” if you do something he doesn’t agree with. He has been with me through many phases of my life and has been a true companion. Jack is the orange tabby and he was rescued in Frederick. I got him from the Animal Welfare League. When I went in to pick a kitty and companion for Max, I was looking for a quiet and shy kitty. Jack kept popping his head up, looking at me, meowing to come and pick him up, stretching his paw outside of the carrier trying to grab me. And when I did, he didn’t leave my arms!

What is a special memory?

When my mom was ill, I was able to “break her out” of the assisted living facility to stay with me overnight. She was always a cat mom. When Jack and

Max were with her during our special stays, it was really sweet that we could be together through so much in life, and still have the warming comfort of the kitties. She loved them, too, and it makes my heart happy that we got to share time together.

What do you want people to know?

They have big personalities and are fun, loving kitties. And, they have a BIG following on FB, too! MjachDesigns.com

elevate YOUR EVENTS

THESE LOCAL LADIES HELP TO CREATE MEMORIES THAT LAST A LIFETIME!

We sure love our events, especially when it comes to our children! Newborn arrivals, birthdays, graduations, weddings, new homes or any number of milestones are just a few of the special moments that give us an opportunity to honor and celebrate our loved ones throughout a lifetime! And, what better way to elevate your event than to consult with these local experts who are passionate about making your event even more special and memorable!

ARTICLE BY KRISTEN WOJDAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER ROSARIA FILM & PHOTOGRAPHY

Jolena Simoneau

Jolena started Sun & Moon Balloons in 2002, inspired by her young daughters, Emma and Quinn, who embody the essence of her “Sun & Moon.” Motivated by a desire to nurture strong, confident leadership qualities in them, Jolena embarked on this venture.

“Bringing joy to others is easily the best part of this business, but being able to make client’s lives easier while being creative is extremely rewarding,” Jolena shared.

Jolena moved to Frederick County in 1997, when she was entering high school. After graduating, she enrolled full-time at Frederick Community College while also working full-time. Though her family moved out of state during this time, she chose to stay in Frederick County to complete the semester. Jolena fell in love with Frederick County and decided to make it her home.

Jolena is a passionate creator and proud women-owned business, specializing in crafting both classic and organic balloon decor suitable for all occasions.

Jolena explained, “Our commitment extends beyond balloons; we provide a seamless, delightful experience

“Bringing joy to others is easily the best part of this business, but being able to make client’s lives easier while being creative is extremely rewarding.”

from effortless ordering to exceptional communication…We advocate for responsible enjoyment of balloons, reflecting our dedication to sustainability.”

Reflecting on her experience as a business owner in Frederick County, Jolena shared, “The robust support for small businesses and the widespread collaboration across diverse sectors (from non-profits to business and education) contribute to a thriving community that fills me with pride to both reside in and operate my business within. It’s an extraordinary and inclusive environment that offers an exceptional blend of residential living and entrepreneurial opportunities.”

Jolena serves on the Board for Key City Rotary and is a member of the Women in Business Committee for the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce, in addition to serving as an Ambassador. Even while running a very successful business, Jolena explained, “My greatest joy and honor is being a mom to my two daughters and teaching them the importance of contributing to their community.”

Originally from Thailand, O first came to Idaho as an exchange student in 2014, and then went to college in Pennsylvania. In 1999, she moved to the DMV and said, “We stumbled upon Frederick when we were house hunting in 2015 and fell in love with this city…Frederick is beautiful. People here are really nice. The community is very involved and very supportive of small businesses. And the small businesses are also very supportive of each other. I feel very lucky to live and have a business here in Frederick.”

The Box Theory was started by O in 2022. She specializes in unique, one-of-a-kind fruit carvings. And, she also offers Asian inspired foods on her menu which many of her customers say are “hidden gems.”

O is a talented food artist. “I always loved throwing parties,” she explained, “and I thought I would be able to spread joy and share my passion with more people.”

She loves to support  local schools though part of her business foundation. O shared, “I love spreading joy to teachers, students and families in the community by providing my ‘pretty food’ experience and even teaching classes.”

With a goal to grow her business, O plans to travel the world and teach about her fruit creations. She explained, “Every single one of my creations makes my heart sing…I just want people to eat pretty food!”

“Every single one of my creations makes my heart sing…I just want people to eat pretty food!”

Amanda Brown

CARD MY YARD | CARDMYYARD.COM/FREDERICK,

FB: CARD MY YARD FREDERICK, IG: @CARDMYYARD_FREDERICK

“We opened Card My Yard Frederick in 2021, as we were coming out of the Pandemic,” Amanda recalled. “Our nation and so many families we knew had been through so much hardship. We loved the idea of being able to uplift, support and celebrate all of the amazing things happening in Frederick.”

Amanda grew up in Montgomery County, MD and moved to the Frederick area after college. She is an “elementary school teacher turned homeschool mom.” Her husband is a local firefighter and they are blessed to be the parents of two incredible children (who often love to help card yards). “Having such a tangible way for our family to spread joy to others has been incredibly special to us,” Amanda shared.

Card My Yard Frederick is so grateful for the huge support. They love using their greetings to celebrate milestones and important moments. They can even card

inside a home or building just as easily as outside on your lawn! In addition, Amanda offers discounts for U.S. military members, first responders, schools, realtors and returning customers.

Amanda loves doing business in Frederick because it feels like they are working with family. “We’ve been loved and embraced since day one,” she explained. “There are so many homes that we don’t even have to Google the address for anymore! Being chosen to celebrate multiple occasions for the same family or business has been such a gift.”

Amanda sponsors several local events each year, including Relay for Life and the MS Walk. Card My Yard also has a corporate partnership with Make a Wish Foundation. “We’ve been honored to celebrate two local Make a Wish Days,” Amanda said. “I love that we get to celebrate the people in our immediate community. It’s a way to give back and be a light to others.”

“I love that we get to celebrate the people in our immediate community. It’s a way to give back and be a light to others.”

Jennifer Rosaria Varriale

JENNIFER ROSARIA FILM & PHOTOGRAPHY

JENNIFERROSARIAPHOTOGRAPHER.COM, IG: @JENVARRIALE

While Jennifer officially launched Jennifer Rosaria Film & Photography and opened her studio along East Patrick Street last year, she has been a freelance videographer and photographer, working in filmmaking for other companies, since 2018.

Originally from Italy, Jennifer moved to the United States ten years ago. She is trilingual (Italian, English and Spanish). She earned an Associate’s Degree in Art at Montgomery College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Electronic Media & Film with a concentration in Cinematography at Towson University.

“I started my company because I wanted to be creatively free, not having to always follow someone else’s direction; but, instead, expressing my own creativeness through my work,” she explained.

Jennifer loves creating art, in both film and photography. She elaborated, “I love the process of creating something new every time I meet new people and see new places. I love to capture moments and create something that will stay in people’s lives forever.”

While her personal business is relatively new, Jennifer has a lot of experience in the industry that she can build on right here in Frederick. “I really love the community and what Frederick has to offer,” she said. “I love working in Frederick because it has so many beautiful areas, including downtown and all the parks. And, the sunsets are always so amazing. There are beautiful locations for pictures anywhere you look…I also love how creative Frederick is and how it supports the arts. I have enjoyed getting to meet and photograph people who live in Frederick and do so much for the community. It has been inspiring.”

Jennifer provides photography and videography services for a variety of special occasions: weddings, families, children, editorial, branding and fashion studio work. She also volunteers in the community, capturing events and supporting businesses in Frederick. “I would like for people to know that I am a down-to-earth, fun, genuine person, and passionate about what I do. I love to have a good laugh and connect with people.”

“I love to capture moments and create something that will stay in people’s lives forever.”

THE HEALING POWER OF PETS

ARTICLE BY KIM WILSON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER ROSARIA FILM & PHOTOGRAPHY

“Pets can have a profound impact on supporting mental health and overall well-being. They help us navigate anxiety, fear, depression and pain.”

Have you ever received a gift of love, joy or hope during a challenging season of life?

This gift may come planned or unexpectedly. It may come in the warm hug of a friend, a joyful smile that ignites your light or a comforting ear to hear about your day. For me, this unexpected gift came in the form of a joyful and playful puppy named Bailey. Little did I know that Bailey would walk with me through many seasons of life and become the brightest light that helped me come back home to myself. I was blessed with so many lovely surprises along the way.

A year before I met Bailey, so much of my world fell apart. I was dealing with chronic pain from an on-the-job injury as a police officer. That pain and injury led to medical retirement and eventually opioid addiction. The housing market was crashing after I just built a house and my relationships were struggling. Losing my identity as a police officer, almost losing my home and losing my community made it hard to live with joy and purpose. I was white knuckling life and suffering in silence.

Bailey came into my world when everything was falling apart and walked the path of pain to purpose by my side. We went through many seasons, trials and transformations together all while he always showed me unconditional

love and cuddles along the way. Bailey saved me and helped me find deeper meaning and purpose. He brought joyful color to my life after so much darkness.

Our furry friends and family members have an incredible ability to brighten our lives, offer companionship, facilitate healing, ignite happiness and offer unconditional love and support. They have a unique way to touch our heart and warm our soul.

Pets can have a profound impact on supporting mental health and overall well-being. They help us navigate anxiety, fear, depression and pain. They help us cope without judgment, stigmas, guilt and shame, thereby helping us navigate the mountains and valleys of our human experience with so much love.

Bailey has been at the root of my own healing journey; the purpose I discovered along the path and the incredible community that I feel so grateful for. He’s walked every health and habit challenge, he’s come with me to support others in recovery, he’s developed incredible connections with my networks and exudes joy everywhere he goes. Together we are a team creating a ripple and I thank him for the gifts he’s given to me over these last 13 years. KimWilson.me

AUTHOR BIO

Kim is a retired police officer, reinvention coach and a trauma informed yoga teacher. Her journey has been what she calls a pain to purpose, and one that is now used to help others. After struggling with loss of identity, opioid addiction and living with chronic pain, Kim discovered holistic tools, resources and modalities that she now uses to help others reinvent their life after a trial, tragedy or trauma. In addition to her coaching practice, she is involved in many community programs and works at the Buckeystown Freedom Center, where she helps those in their first 30 days of alcohol and drug recovery.

BENEFITS OF HAVING A PET

Stress Reduction

Cuddling, walking, playing and connecting with your pet may help decrease levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, while increasing serotonin to boost mood.

Companionship

Their loving affection and companionship help to minimize or alleviate the emotions and feelings of isolation, loneliness and despair. Pets help us feel grounded, relaxed and safe.

Purpose and Strength

Pets help strengthen emotional resilience and well-being while we are navigating the ups and downs of life. Their companionship facilitates healing in a way that helps others feel needed and valued, adding purpose into life.

Life Lessons and Personal Growth

Pets help us learn how to love, trust and have empathy for others. We observe their non-verbal cues to understand their needs, helping us to learn how to create deeper connections with others.

Physical Activity and Healthy Habits

Having a dog that desires walks, hiking and movement encourages physical activity and exercise for the owner. Movement releases endorphins that support mental health, reduce negative emotions and improve mood. Pets also help us to commit to a healthy daily routine and lifestyle.

Connection

Animals not only share their life with us but they also help us connect with others.  They help stimulate conversations, connection and bring like-minded people together, helping to foster new relationships.

administer and manage your assets to ensure they are appropriately organized and allocated to maximum value at the time of your passing.

RETIREMENT

We view our role with you as a partner to assist in the realization of the lifestyle that you envisioned during your working years.

Cleaner Indoor Air and

a

healthier home

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DIY At Home Theater

Our family had so much fun creating this At-Home Movie Theater party for our son Ezra’s 8th birthday. All you need is a projector and an outdoor space, but I wanted to jazz it up just a little bit more.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEANN PARKER

TICKET BOOTH

I created a ticket booth and concession stand for a full movie theater experience to ensure that our movie night felt like our guests were actually going to a movie theater and not just our house. In an attempt to achieve that, we set up a ticket booth at the front door using our kids’ old puppet theater.

Materials:

• Tickets

• Ticket Booth (optional)

Before entering our theater (aka our backyard), I set up a shadow box for guests to place their entry ticket.

PEGBOARD DISPLAY WALL

I love displaying food in a creative way at our parties. I made this simple DIY Popcorn Display Wall as a statement piece in our concession stand. We have also used it in many other ways for other parties such as a donut wall, bagel wall, pretzel wall and more. You can easily recreate your own for your next party.

Materials:

• Pegboard. I chose the 4ft square size at Lowe’s for $10 and spray-painted it white.

• Frame (optional). I bought two 1x4’s for $5 each, cut two pieces 4ft long and two pieces 3.5ft long, stained Minwax walnut, attached to pegboard with screws through the back.

• Twine to string popcorn bags. Or, if you’re using the pegboard display for donuts, bagels or pretzels then use golf tees hot-glued into holes from behind!

• Clothespins to hang popcorn bags.

• Popcorn bags

CONCESSION STAND

My daughter handed out tickets for guests to use to “purchase” their popcorn, candy and drinks at the concession stand.

Materials:

• Popcorn Machine (optional)

• Popcorn

• Popcorn flavors for guests to get creative!

• Candy - Use boxes rather than bags for movie theater vibes!

• Soda - Use bottles rather than cans

• Napkins

• Cupcake toppers & plates  (if it’s a birthday celebration)

• Reused boxes and spray-painted them white for guests to easily carry their snacks

SET THE SCENE!

FINISHING

TOUCHES

I cut out red stars (from foam sheets) and stuck them to the floor (with adhesive putty) to lead guests through the house to the concession stand and back outside to where our movie was going to take place.

Finally, our guests could choose their seating on chairs or blankets around our yard. I also set up a little bug-spray table for people to grab as needed. Dramatic play, even as an adult, is so much fun! Who says staying home can’t be just as entertaining?

I hope you have as much fun at your party as we did! I’d love if you tagged me @silvertoothfarmhome so I can see your At-Home Movie Theater too!! In reflecting on the party, my son said that “the best part of the night was eating candy with my friends.” After all, people are what matter most!

HOME Sweet HOME

Your rural home goals are within reach – and our team of experts are here to help. When you’re ready to own your own piece of quiet, give us a call.

AUGUST 2024

A

SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

AUGUST 2ND, 9TH, 16TH, 23RD & 30TH

Cool Down with Kotei Kids

Shaved Ice at Frederick Municipal Airport

Frederick Municipal Airport

Each Friday, the Frederick Municipal Airport is partnering with Kotei Kids Shaved Ice to have a shaved ice truck at the Frederick Airport. Come out between 11AM - 4PM and beat the heat with shaved ice after your meal at the Airways Inn or while you watch airplanes from our airport viewing area. KoteiKidsShavedIce.com

AUGUST 3RD, 9TH, 10TH, 30TH & 31ST

Frederick Keys Baseball and Fireworks!

Nymeo Field at Harry Grove Stadium

The Frederick Keys games are one of the hottest tickets in town during one of the hottest months of the year! Be sure to root for the home team and enjoy a spectacular fireworks show following the games on Fridays and Saturdays. And, if you need more baseball, check the website for ALL of the August games! FrederickKeys.com

AUGUST 24TH

Black Frederick Festival

Carroll Creek Park | 11:00 AM

Join us as we share, celebrate and educate the Frederick community about the richness of Black culture at the Black Frederick Festival! Our vision is to host an annual, economically viable celebration of Black culture that attracts people from throughout Frederick and the surrounding areas. BlackFrederickFestival.com

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Carla R., Lafayette Federal

ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH |

summer is POPSICLE SEASON

KIDS AND POPSICLES ARE THE PERFECT SUMMERTIME PAIR

As temperatures rise, children race to the freezer for this frosty treat or wait anxiously for the approach of the musical ice cream truck. Making homemade popsicles is a fun, kid-friendly activity.

SPICED GRAPE POPSICLES

ingredients:

Makes 18 to 24

• 2 quarts Concord grape juice

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 12 whole cloves

• 4 cinnamon sticks

• 3 tablespoons whole allspice

directions:

Put all of the ingredients into a large saucepan. Bring the mixture to barely a simmer and let it cook for 30 minutes. Remove from the heat and pour the juice through a cheesecloth-lined strainer into a bowl or pitcher to remove the spices. Allow the juice to cool to room temperature, and then refrigerate until well chilled. Pour mixture into popsicle molds. Freeze until firm.