WINTER
2026
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SEEK&FIND 18
WELCOME BACK POTTERS!
30
MARTIAL ARTS FOR EVERYONE
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44
FEELIN' HOT, HOT HOT
56
OVER THE EDGE:
WILLIAMSPORT, PENNSYLVANIA
FOUND iT 12 ALEKO'S • 26 PANDA SUSHI 38 DENDROICA STUDIO • 50 HOUSE OF COLOUR 52 SAILING THROUGH WINTER SOLSTICE 64 OLD WESTMINSTER WINERY FINDIT WINTER 26 | 7
Free To Ride!
Transit is HERE to get you THERE! View route information TRANSIT HAS
and schedules here:
FOUR ROUTES THAT RUN EVERY 30 minutes! The 20, 40, 50, and 51 Routes run every 30 minutes on weekdays, from 9:15 AM to 5:45 PM. 301-600-2065
FrederickCountyMD.gov/Transit
MUSINGS
A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Happy 2026, Frederick!
A new year is upon us once again, and we have lots to celebrate in Frederick and beyond. Did you know that the U.S. will turn 250 this year? And for that reason, we will all learn a new word — semiquincentennial! Say that three times fast! Frederick County is joining communities nationwide in commemorating America’s Semi… never mind… 250th anniversary, all year long. Check out visitfrederick.org/ america250 to see all the events planned. We’ve found a whole lot of other places to explore that have nothing to do with difficult-to-pronounce words, and they’re all in this issue! Check out a fun, new, all-you-can-eat sushi place in Frederick, grab a bite at a Middletown favorite at its newer, larger location, and check out classes in pottery or martial arts, all in Frederick County. If you’re itching to get outside the county’s borders, we’ve got suggestions for you, too. A short drive will get you to a fabulous winery or a charming small town in Pennsylvania. Read all the details inside! Thanks for reading, and as always, please reach out with ideas about places you Find in Frederick that we can feature in future issues. We’re all ears.
Molly Fellin Spence, Executive Editor
FINDIT WINTER 26 | 9
WINTER 2026 VOLUME 19 ISSUE 3
published by PULSE PUBLISHING, LLC
12 S. MARKET STREET, SUITE 101 F R E D E R I C K , M A RY L A N D 2 1 7 0 1
O 301.662.6050 d 301.662.5102
TEAMPULSE
w PULSEPUBLISHING.NET 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
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Shuan Butcher, Carol Daiger, Peter Kremers, Naomi Pearson, SarahRachael Photography, Molly Fellin Spence
ACCOUNTING/BILLING bookkeeper@pulsepublishing.net DISTRIBUTION distribution@pulsepublishing.net
10 | FINDIT WINTER 26
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
Many thanks to the numerous individuals and businesses that provided information and their time for our articles
and features. We wish to thank
o u r a d ve r tise rs fo r th e i r continued support.
DINING
WHERE YOU WANT TO AND
Chatime Tea • Chipotle Mexican Gril l Firebirds Wood Fired Grill • IHOP • KPot Korean BBQ and Hotpot Kulfi Ice Cream & Italian Ice • Matsutake Sushi & Steak McDonald’s • MOD Superfast Pizza • Noodles & Company Panda Express • Poke Bowl • Starbucks TGI Friday’s • Thai Table • Ugly Dumpling
FASHION
Chico’s • Comfort One Shoes • Francesca’s Jos. A. Bank • LOFT • Soma Intimates White House | Black Market
SERVICES & SHOPPING
Bank of America ATM • Lenscrafters • F45 Training Hallmark • MOM’s • Nail Trix • Olive & Basket • PNC Bank Evolve Med Spa • Sola Salon Studios • Strive Martial Arts The UPS Store
ENTERTAINMENT
Regal Cinemas Stadium 16 4DX & IMAX • XGolf
Buckeystown Pike & Crestwood Boulevard, Frederick Exit 31B off I-270 • www.ShopWestview.com • F d
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We buy and sell gently used clothes, shoes, handbags, and accessories for guys and girls in their teens and twenties. You’ll find all the name brands and styles you love at up to 70% less than regular retail prices. 301.644.1190 • 5100 Buckeystown Pk, #162, Frederick www.platosclosetfrederick.com • d @platosclosetfrederick
Guests can expect the same staples that built Aleko’s loyal following, including tender gyros shaved from the spit, marinated chicken and pork souvlaki, and crisp spanakopita filled with spinach and feta. The expanded space also gives the kitchen more room to highlight traditional plates such as moussaka, pastitsio, and grilled seafood, served alongside lemon-forward potatoes, fresh salads, and warm pita bread. House-made sauces, including tzatziki and other classic dips, continue to play a key role, emphasizing freshness and simple, time-honored preparation. Desserts like baklava round out the menu, offering a sweet finish rooted in Greek tradition.
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Moving into its new home, Aleko’s has created an environment where diners can linger over meals and experience the food as it was intended — shared, savored, and enjoyed at the table. The new space signals growth, but the flavors remain a reflection of the restaurant’s roots and commitment to authentic Greek cooking. The new location occupies a renovated former post office building and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Locals have eagerly embraced the move, noting that the updated space enhances the welcoming and family-oriented spirit that made the original location such a hit. With its combination of fresh, homemade food and a vibrant new atmosphere, Aleko’s is already a staple in Middletown’s growing dining scene.
Aleko’s Village Cafe 6 N. Church St., Middletown 301.371.3500 alekosvillagecafe.com d @alekoscafe
Photos courtesy of Aleko's Village Cafe
A longtime Middletown favorite, Aleko’s is drawing fresh attention as it transitions from its longtime carry-out location into a new brick-and-mortar taverna at 6 N. Church St. in downtown Middletown. After years of serving authentic Greek cuisine from a smaller setting, the family-run restaurant is opening its doors in a more central, sit-down space that will allow patrons to enjoy full table service and all of the Tsinonis family’s cherished Mediterranean favorites.
FINDIT WINTER 26 | 13
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Welcome Back,
Potters! Background photo: istock.com/Liudmila Chernetska
By Chris Slattery
18 | FINDIT WINTER 26
Photo courtesy of Cowgirl Clay Pottery
Whether you’re an old hand at the potter’s wheel or an absolute beginner, two clay specialty stores in the area have everything you need to get crocking.
FINDIT WINTER 26 | 19
S
he’s now a successful business owner, but artist Leigh Anne Thompson’s start on the road to success in her chosen field
was a bookkeeper’s nightmare. “In high school I had a really good ceramics teacher who’d write me passes to get out of algebra so I could come to the ceramics studio,” she confessed. “I just fell in love with it.” It was a love sustained by frequent visits to the Maryland Renaissance Festival as a kid, a love that culminated in her latest clay-related business venture, Cone 6 on Market Street in Downtown Frederick. “Eight or nine years ago I opened a ceramic decal company called Elan Transfers,” she explained. “We make silkscreen underglaze decals, print them on rice paper, and sell them around the world on our website.” Thompson has expanded the Elan Group, LLC umbrella, opening Perennial Clay & Garden, a niche shop for Frederick gardeners, in the old Wedgewood Inn and Café building on West Second Street. As it turned out, the space in the back she’d envisioned as a repository for clay supplies wasn’t big enough to hold yet another business, a retail store that catered to ceramic artists. “Frederick really needed a clay retail presence for the “It’s been a really welcoming environment for us.” A welcoming but space-limited environment: while Cone 6 does occasional classes, Thompson says they’re mostly one-day events. Eight or nine people, mostly experienced potters, with a lunch break at nearby Magoo’s Pub. But that’s how she envisioned it. “Throughout my clay history, every time I’d go to a clay supply (shop) they were usually in an industrial park,” she explained. “Which is fine — you need a loading dock and all these different things.”
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Photos this page and top right courtesy of Cone 6
potters in our area and to the west of us,” she said.
But Thompson wanted to be in an area that was a destination, a place where she could get a coffee, go to lunch, meet up with other potters and make a day of it. And Cone 6 — the name refers to the optimum temperature (around 2,200 degrees Fahrenheit) for firing — was born. This time of year, even though Perennial Clay and Garden is transformed into a Christmas shop and open every day until Jan. 1, Cone 6 is the ideal place to find gifts for artists and crafters. “We have a great range of ceramic supplies, glazes, tools, books, and fun things to purchase,” said Thompson. “We also have art supplies: acrylics, watercolors, printmaking and silkscreening supplies.”
THE COWGIRL AND THE KILN If your interest in pottery is just beginning, or you want to learn how to make gifts with your own two hands, Cowgirl Clay Pottery in Walkersville may be the place for you. “Despite my small space here, I’ve crammed in a lot of stuff,” said Andrea Horine, the accomplished ceramicist who runs classes for all ages and levels of expertise in her studio. “I have eight wheels and a table that seats eight, though my maximum is 12.” Like Thompson, Horine has been making pottery since she was a youngster.
Photos by Photos courtesy of Cowgirl Clay Pottery
“I started clay in first grade, at Walkersville Elementary,” she recalled. “I remember it like it was yesterday: I was hooked from then on.” And though she spent years studying and living out west in Wyoming (and has the collection of cowboy boots to prove it) Frederick County called her back. Now she helps aspiring artists create unique art pieces, introducing them to the wheel, the kiln, and the glazing process. FINDIT WINTER 26 | 21
“When students book a class, they get to choose what they want to make, and if I’m looking for something and I can’t find it, I’ll just make it,” she explained. “Each and every piece is beyond unique.” Like a pufferfish, based on her family’s beloved be-finned pet, or the wall sconces she designed herself. There’s a lion’s head and a snake planter workshop, classes on building Christmas trees and holly bowls, and more intense, immersive instruction on wheel-throwing, and glazing skills. Students learn what they need to know to get started, and they end up with a quiver full of skills and some beautiful handcrafted pottery. “My classes are a multi-mix,” she explained, “and I love it when parents bring their kids, and grandparents bring their grandkids. It’s therapeutic, and it makes it all the more fun.” Horine says she refuses to teach bad habits; she’s strict about making sure beginners learn the fundamentals, such as centering the clay on the wheel to get it ready to build. But when it comes to creativity, anything goes. “I encourage people to put their twist on every project,” she said. “There is no wrong way.”
Cowgirl Clay 36 E. Frederick St., Walkersville 240.385.4885 cowgirlclaypottery.com d @cowgirlclaypottery
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Photos courtesy of Cowgirl Clay Pottery
Cone 6 121 N. Market St., Frederick 301.898.2198 elantransfers.com/pages/cone-six F facebook.com/conesixfrederick d @conesixfrederick
BRUNSWICK Maryland START YOUR WINTER ADVENTURE HERE!
Bike the C&O Canal Shop for vintage treasures
Cozy up with a craft beer
Nestled along the Potomac River, Brunswick blends scenic beauty, rich history, and small-town warmth. Perfect for a winter day trip or weekend escape!
Plan Plan your your visit: visit:
The City of Frederick PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
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.
121 N. Bentz Street, Frederick • 301-600-1492/1450 www.playfrederick.com
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Photos by Molly Fellin Spence
If you’re the kind of person who can never get enough sushi, have we got the place for you… Panda Sushi opened recently in the old Pizza Hut building on Frederick’s Golden Mile, transforming the familiar restaurant into a cozy, booth-filled space where delicious, fast Japanese-inspired food is served daily to hungry patrons. Panda Sushi is unique because it offers guests an all-you-can-eat experience for both lunch and dinner. Simply sit down and relax and start ordering your favorites from the menu. Your made-to-order sushi rolls will be brought to your table, and as soon as you finish a plate, a server is ready to offer you more. But sushi is not the only thing on Panda Sushi’s allyou-can-eat dine-in menu. Start off with a variety of appetizers, including miso soup and a variety of fresh salads, edamame, crab rangoon or spring rolls. Entrees are also on the menu, including chicken or veggie fried rice, noodle and hibachi dishes. The real star is the sushi, though, and Panda offers about 20 specialty rolls, including the Frederick Roll (a fried California roll topped with spicy tuna and
masago, eel sauce and spicy mayo) and the King Roll (shrimp tempura with eel and avocado on top, with eel sauce and masago). About 30 classic rolls, such as the California Roll or Spicy Tuna Roll are also on offer. Bringing the kids? They can order chicken nuggets, a corn dog or french fries. And a small-bite dessert menu ends your night with a sweet delight. According to the menu, and signs posted at every table, you can keep ordering sushi rolls until you’re no longer hungry, all for one great price. But don’t overdo it. The restaurant reserves the right to charge extra for excessive leftovers! So, the next time you’re craving a colorful, fresh, tasty array of sushi, head over to the Golden Mile and give Panda Sushi a try. Bring some friends … and an empty stomach. Panda Sushi 1220 W. Patrick St., Frederick 301.732.5040 pandasushimd.com d @panda_sushi1220
FINDIT WINTER 26 | 27
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Martial
Arts:
fitness and fun for everyone!
Background photo: istockphoto.com/sanjeri Inset photos by Naomi Pearson
By Naomi Pearson
30 | FINDIT WINTER 26
I
f you think martial arts is all self-defense and self-discipline, think again. It can also be about fitness, flexibility and fun! The skills you can learn and the fitness benefits include better balance, increased flexibility,
and more accurate proprioception — or your body's innate "sixth sense" of knowing where your body parts are in space and how they're moving, without needing to look, allowing for balance, coordination, and controlled movement by sending signals from muscles, tendons, and joints to your brain. Martial arts training builds strength and physical control and improves endurance and cardiorespiratory fitness. It also sharpens reflexes which can enhance your safety in practical situations. “We teach you how to fall and get up off the floor,” says Joe De Capua, owner of South Mountain Aikido in Frederick. The ability to do so without getting hurt is a real concern for his students, most of whom are over 50 years old. Martial arts can also teach relaxation. “It’s counterintuitive, but you have more power when you are relaxed,” De Capua explains. “It’s easier on the body.” With the many styles of martial arts (karate, tae kwon do, jujitsu, kickboxing, aikido, mixed martial arts, and more!) there’s something for almost everyone! Each school allows prospective students to observe a class. Some offer free one-day or oneweek trials, while others have paid introductory arrangements before committing to a full-length session or membership. FINDIT WINTER 26 | 31
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Background photo courtesy of Bowerhouse MMA; inset photos by Naomi Pearson
Martial arts schools generally schedule classes weekday afternoons for after work or after school convenience, and Saturday mornings, while a few also have early morning sessions for the up-andat-’em type, late evenings for those who still have the energy, or Sunday sessions. Most martial arts schools teach kids as young as 4 years old, to participants in their 50s and beyond! Some, like HiYa! Karate in Mount Airy and Groundswell Mixed Martial Arts in Frederick even offer adaptive classes appropriate for adults or kids with developmental disabilities, sensory issues, or other special needs. Groundswell has two adult adaptive classes, which according to operations manager Mike Fuller, focus less on form and self defense and more on being active and getting good exercise based on what they are physically capable of. Both classes teach basic kicks, punches, and blocks without grappling techniques or sparring, but while one is very lively and fun-focused, the other is quieter and more laid-back for those with sensory sensitivities. Derek Watson, owner of Strive Martial Arts Family Fitness Center in Frederick, explains that martial arts teaching is visual, and since the instructors demonstrate and help with positioning for the forms, it can also work for those with hearing difficulties. In fact, many martial arts disciplines can be adapted in some way for those with various limitations, and some instructors may have experience doing so. Just ask if it’s something they can do and are comfortable with, and work together to assess your particular situation.
FINDIT WINTER 26 | 33
When taking martial arts classes, “you have a team, a unit, that will support you,” says Watson. “You work out with friends.” With more than 25 martial arts schools in Frederick County, you’re likely to find one that works for you. And at a school that is the right fit, “you can have fun,” Watson says, adding, ”Working out should be fun.”
South Mountain Aikido Classes held at Butterfly Ridge Elementary School 601 Contender Way, Frederick 301-514-3415 southmountainaikido.com
Groundswell Mixed Martial Arts 8420 Gas House Pike, Frederick 240.815.5172 groundswellmma.com Strive Martial Arts Family Fitness Center 5235 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick 240.575.9176 strivemartialarts.net
34 | FINDIT WINTER 26
Photo Photocourtesy by of Bowerhouse MMA
HiYa! Karate 1312 S. Main St., Mount Airy 301.367.7993 hiyakarate.com
Photographs that tell your stories the way you’d tell your stories. seanxreel.com
d @seanxreel
You’ve Got This
And We’ve Got You
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MAIN OFFICE - 1475 Taney Avenue, Frederick BALLENGER CREEK - 610 Solarex Ct, Frederick MYERSVILLE - 3020B Ventrie Ct, Myersville MT AIRY - 504 E. Ridgeville Blvd, Mount Airy URBANA - 3430 Worthington Blvd, Urbana
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FREDERICK (TJ) OFFICE 87 Thomas Johnson Drive, Suite 101, Frederick, MD 21702 HOURS: Monday–Friday, 8am–5pm Saturday, 9am–11am (by appointment only) PHONE: 301-694-0606 TEXT MESSAGES ARE PREFERRED TO: 301-205-5112 BALLENGER CREEK OFFICE 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
www.FrederickPeds.com Quality, compassionate, patient-centered medical care for children from birth to age 21.
From Birds to Brushstrokes:
Photos courtesy of Dendroica Studio
The Art and Heart Behind Dendroica Studio
38 | FINDIT WINTER 26
When Erin Ragheb launched Dendroica Studio this past August, she was taking flight on a new kind of career — one that grew naturally from her lifelong love of art and science. For years, Ragheb worked as a research biologist studying endangered birds. But when telework changes left her without a science position this spring, she turned her focus to watercolor painting. “I decided to use the time to be more intentional about my art,” she said. “I poured my energy into developing my watercolor skills, and quickly rediscovered the joy of the process.” Her studio’s name, Dendroica, nods to her scientific roots. As the genus name for a group of wood warblers, Dendroica means “tree-dweller” in Greek, an apt symbol of Ragheb’s love of both birds and home. Her logo features a black-throated green warbler, a personal favorite. Ragheb specializes in custom watercolor house portraits, which she describes as “a gentle way to start” her business. “Homes and gardens carry so many specific memories,” she explained. “Sometimes it takes a painting to reveal the particular mood or character of a place.” Clients provide reference photos and collaborate with her on details before she begins the painting, a process that can take six to 10 hours depending on the size and complexity.
Her years as a biologist have sharpened her eye for fine detail and structure. “For historic homes, I love to highlight the craftsmanship — the brickwork, the wood trim. For other properties, the landscape sets the tone for how it feels to exist in that space.” Ragheb lives and works in New Market, where the historic architecture and farmland continually inspire her. “New Market has a really charming Main Street, and I love how the old architecture is preserved and celebrated,” she said. Recently, she showcased her work at Hidden Hills Farm and Vineyard’s fall festival and donated a painting to the Delaplaine Arts Center’s Oz Gala fundraiser. Although she is still growing her client base, Ragheb already feels deeply rewarded. “It’s so validating to see people moved by something I’ve created,” she said. “A house portrait tells the recipient that the memories shared in that place are worth celebrating.”
— Ellyn Wexler Contact Ragheb by email: DendroicaStudio@gmail.com d @dendroica.studio
FINDIT WINTER 26 | 39
PUT YOUR
Reserve your space in Frederick Faces today! For details or to secure your spot, contact info@pulsepublishing.net
BEST FACE FORWARD
EXPLORE. ENJOY. EXPERIENCE.
Thurmo nt
3 covered bridges for all seasons
Shopping on Main Street
Maple Syrup festival in March
Enjoy the Thurmont Trolley trail on a brisk day
WINERIES | ARTS | LOCAL DINING | HIKING 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, and enjoy local flavors at our restaurants.
visit us atFor more information, please visit
ThurmontMainStreet.com ThurmontMainStreet.com
Private event spaces available! Sunday Country Brunch Buffet Daily Specials Open for Lunch 12pm-3pm Friday - Sunday
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Creating Extraordinary Culinary Moments At Set the Table, we believe that every occasion, no matter how big or small, deserves to be celebrated in style. Are you tired of spending endless hours planning meals, grocery shopping, and preparing dinner after a long day of work? Looking to create a memorable dining experience that will leave a lasting impression on your guests? Look no further than Set the Table for all your culinary needs, from weeknight meals to unforgettable celebrations.
setthetablellc.com erica@setthetablellc.com (301) 524-4951
When the cold of winter’s got you down, here are 3 ways that Frederick can keep you…
Feelin’ hot, hot hot
1
A unique workout at HotWorx Yoga 1705 N. Market St., Frederick 301.606.8688 | hotworx.net/studio/ frederick-bottling-plant
Beyond the physical benefits, HotWorx Yoga also supports mental well-being. The focus required in each session helps clear your mind, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. HotWorx also allows 24/7 studio access, so you can fit workouts into your busy schedule.
44 | FINDIT SUMMER 23
Photo courtesy of Hotworx Yoga
Working out at HotWorx Yoga, located inside the old Coca-Cola bottling plant on North Market Street, offers a unique blend of physical and mental benefits that elevate your fitness routine. HotWorx combines the benefits of traditional yoga with the intensity of infrared heat therapy. The high temperatures increase your heart rate, boosting calorie burn and helping you shed pounds more efficiently. Additionally, the sauna-like environment promotes circulation, helping to improve muscle recovery and reduce soreness after workouts.
Photos courtesy of Rare Morsel
2
An unparalleled gourmet drink at Rare Morsel (raremorsel.com)
One of the best ways to warm up on a chilly day is sipping on a gourmet hot chocolate. And one of the best, richest cups can be found at Rare Morsel, the new name for The Perfect Truffle, a longtime favorite Downtown Frederick chocolate shop. The shop has become a go-to destination not just for handcrafted confections, but also for its decadent hot chocolate offering. What sets Rare Morsel’s hot chocolate apart is its rich, velvety intensity — so deeply chocolatey that patrons say it tastes like drinking one of the shop’s famed truffles. Available Friday through Sunday during the cooler months, the beverage draws chilly stroll-in crowds eager for a sweet, warming treat. Optional toppings like whipped cream or caramel add another layer of indulgence, making each cup a personal pleasure. Rare Morsel’s hot chocolate has become a local favorite and seasonal must-try. FINDIT SUMMER 23 | 45
3
A hearthside meal at Dutch's Daughter (dutchsdaughter.com) or Firebirds Wood Fired Grill (firebirdsrestaurants.com)
One standout is Dutch's Daughter, a longtime Frederick favorite known for its elegant interior and multiple fireplaces nestled throughout its dining rooms and private spaces. Guests can enjoy classic American fare — from seafood and steaks to seasonal specials — all enhanced by the glow of brick and marble hearths that lend a warm glow to every table. Fireplaces on multiple floors create intimate nooks ideal for date nights or family celebrations, making the restaurant a wintertime favorite. Hearthside dining is at the heart of the experience at Firebirds Wood Fired Grill in Westview Promenade. Firebirds features a from-scratch kitchen menu spotlighting fire-grilled hand-cut aged steaks, fresh seafood, and seasonal dishes, but to really get warm and cozy, plan to enjoy some specialty crafted cocktails at the signature FIREBAR – Firebirds’ branded bar experience, blending craft cocktails, fire-inspired flavors, and a comfortable gathering space.
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istockphoto.com/keithpix
Cozy dining spots with real indoor fireplaces are a unique delight in winter. Sitting near a fire can turn a good meal into a truly memorable experience. Several local eateries offer not just great food but also inviting hearthside ambiance.
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.
CLUSTERED SPIRES GOLF CLUB WINTER RATES: DECEMBER 1-FEBRUARY 28TH NON-SENIORS RATE
Monday–Friday ............. $45 Saturday & Sunday ....... $65
SENIORS/60+ RATE
Monday–Friday ............. $35
8415 Gas House Pike | Frederick, MD 21701 | 301-600-1295 | ClusteredSpiresGolf.com
Photo by SarahRachael Photography
“Colour” Your World
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How House of Colour uses Tools, Not Rules, to Transform Your Look and Simplify Your Life Erin Staiger is a Blue Leaf Autumn. “I had a friend tell me a long time ago that she thought I was a Stormy Winter,” the Frederick resident explains. “So, in the back of my mind I thought, “Oh, I look good in jewel tones.
Top left photo by SarahRachael Photography; top right courtesy of Erin Staiger
“I never delved deeper into it.” And yet the concept of style grounded in seasonal color continued to pop up in Staiger’s life, until a treat-yourself birthday visit to a color stylist led the medical publishing professional to switch careers and launch her very own House of Colour franchise out of a studio in East Frederick. What’s House of Colour? The color analysis and image consulting company was founded in London by Carolyn Miller, inspired by Hollywood makeup artist Robert Dorr and the theories of color groupings put forward by Bauhaus artist Johannes Itten. “House of Colour itself has been around since the ’80s,” Staiger explains. “They’ve been in the U.S. for 10-15 years, and I think their franchising in the U.S. coincided with people finding an interest in how things look on them using A.I..” But A.I., she warns, is “extremely inaccurate” when it comes to choosing individual style and color. A House of Colour consultation uses a combination of natural daylight, color science, and the attention of a specially trained stylist like Staiger, whose
studio is located in the Shab Row district of downtown Frederick. Clients come solo — groups of up to three are OK but not encouraged — and come away knowing their best looks as well as their “wow colors.” “I talk them through everything,” Staiger says, “from the proper jewelry to denim to what colors might look best for their season. We have our own makeup that’s divided by season, and we go over proportions — you know, where the hem of your skirt should fall, should you wear wide-leg or straight-leg, turtlenecks or V-necks? — as well as your style personality. It helps people become authentic in their style.” In addition to looking and feeling more stylish and confident, Staiger says that a House of Colour consultation saves time and money. Her clients learn to create a capsule wardrobe, avoid trends and impulse splurges, and get more use (and satisfaction) out of their carefully curated closets. “Your season never changes,” she says. “So, it’s a lifetime investment.”
— Chris Slattery House of Colour East Frederick 116 N. East St., Frederick houseofcolour.com/stylists/erin-staiger-eastfrederick-maryland d @houseofcolour_eastfrederick
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Jacob Sanchez Diagnosed with autism
Sensory sensitivity is a sign of autism. Learn the others at autismspeaks.org/signs.
Create a Brighter Future at ABH Join our team if you are passionate about mental health and making a difference in our community! Advanced Behavioral Health (ABH) is seeking licensed clinicians and interns to join our family-centered mental health team.
WHY JOIN ABH Sign-on & Service Bonuses Flexible Work Environment Career Development Comprehensive Benefits & Health Plans HRSA Loan Repayment Program
Scan here to get started
Contact HR today! 301-345-1022 hr@abhmaryland.com www.abhmaryland.com/careers
N O NPRO FITS P OTLI G HT
Color on the Creek Shines Year-Round
What began as a casual idea over cocktails has blossomed into one of Downtown Frederick’s most enchanting traditions. In 2012, Dr. Peter Kremers and Lisa Collins founded the nonprofit Color on the Creek, inspired by a newspaper story about algae choking Carroll Creek. “It felt like a challenge,” Kremers recalled. “I’d been an amateur water gardener for about 10 years and thought a water garden might help mitigate the problem.” That summer, they presented a small test garden of 20 plants to the city. It thrived — and so did public interest. Today, the nonprofit’s lush floating gardens attract visitors to Carroll Creek year-round, improving water quality while adding natural beauty to the heart of downtown.
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Photos by Peter Kremers
Where Flowers Float and Boats Glow:
Volunteers, from left: Dr. Peter Kremers, Pat Brunner, Paul Brunner, Donna Moore, Dan Blum, Kyle Thomas, Jason Daiger, Lisa Collins.
A few years later, Kremers and collaborator Kyle Thomas dreamed up a cold-weather companion: Sailing Through the Winter Solstice.
Photo by Carol Daiger
The first “boat,” a tribute to Kremers’ son deployed overseas, honored a centuries-old Greek tradition of setting sailboat models to welcome sailors home. “We worked late into the night for three weeks creating Stargazer,” Kremers said. “It tipped over in a 50-mile-an-hour squall on the first night, but it captured our imagination.” From that single sailboat in 2016, the winter fleet has grown into a glowing flotilla of wildly creative custom-lit, themed vessels — submarines, dragons, castles — illuminating Carroll Creek from November through early March. Local teams design
and build the boats, with sponsors covering costs that range from $2,000 to $10,000. Each $5 donation given in a boat’s name counts as a vote toward the “Best Boat” award, with 90% of proceeds going directly to the team’s chosen charity. Last year’s event raised about $14,000 for local causes, while grants and donations also support the summer gardens’ upkeep. The effort is entirely volunteer-driven. “It’s the volunteers that sustain us,” Kremers emphasized. “There’s real pride of ownership.” Even in “Arctic creek sailing” conditions — gales, rain, or the occasional sinking — the joy of the event keeps spirits high.
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N O NPRO FITS P OTLI G HT
This season brings new features, including free rides around the fleet for children and a parent, weather permitting. Banner School is also refurbishing Stargazer, renaming her Miss Donna in memory of beloved volunteer Donna Moore. Each year, Kremers said, the team strives “to make the event better — more beautiful, more creative, and more charitable.”
— Ellyn Wexler Sailing Through the Winter Solstice F facebook.com/STTWSMD d @sttwsmd
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Photo by Peter Kremers
To volunteer, sponsor a boat, vote, or visit, email info@coloronthecreek.com or sign up at ColorontheCreek.com.
111 East Patrick St. (301) 624-1052 www.cucinamassi.com
Shepherdstown Mystery Walks
Not everything that walks these historic streets is among the living...Uncover the incredible history and spine-chilling hauntings of Shepherdstown, West Virginia on the multi award-winning Shepherdstown Mystery Walks History and Ghost Tour. Don’t just take our word for it – check out our outstanding reviews! Discover bountiful history.... and secrets...that only Shepherdstown can reveal. And, we’re on the super exclusive West Virginia Paranormal Trail!!
Book your journey into Shepherdstown’s haunted past today.
OPEN ALL YEAR Make reservations today:
301-639-0351
www.shepherdstownmysterywalks.com
OVER
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THE Williamsport Has History, Baseball, and Art… Oh My! Words and Photos By Shuan Butcher
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T
hose in Maryland may be familiar with one Williamsport. But there is another W i l l i a m s p o r t n ot t o o fa r away, i n Pennsylvania that is known and beloved across the globe.
Once known as the Lumber Capital of the World, in the mid to late 19th Century, it is now internationally known as the birthplace of Little League Baseball. The first Little League game was played in the town’s Park Point in 1939. Now, teams and fans from around the world descend on the city toward the end of each summer to partake in America’s favorite pastime. There is plenty to do in Williamsport the rest of the year, too, and fans of Little League, or sports in general, can visit the World of Little League
Museum year round. For any person who played baseball or softball when they were growing up, this museum is a bit nostalgic. But it is also a very modern museum with fun, interactive exhibits that honor America’s favorite game for kids as well as its roots in Williamsport. You can see a number of autographed baseballs by a variety of celebrities, historic gear and equipment, and enjoy their Hall of Excellence, which recognizes well-known people who once played the game. History buffs will also enjoy a visit to Millionaires’ Row, which pays tribute to the lumber barons of the
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...you could get full bygone era. At one time, Williamsport was home to more millionaires per capita than anywhere else in the country. And Fourth Street was the crown jewel. Now the magnificent and large homes, churches, and other properties are displayed to showcase the town’s gilded age. A number of special events are held throughout the year, including a holiday tour of homes and much more. Also located in Millionaires’ Row is the Thomas Tabor Museum, operated by the Lycoming County Historical Society. Some local history museums can be dry, but not this one. There are two floors that contain thousands of objects. Inside, there is a gallery dedicated to Native American history, which includes a mock archaeological dig and dioramas. In addition, there are period rooms that showcase what residential life could look like through various centuries. But they also have various industrial and commercial exhibitions, including a full-scale working grist mill and blacksmith shop, a oneroom school house, and a general store. For railroad enthusiasts, the train exhibit in the lower level showcases their collection of more than 300 toy trains on display. The museum is open year round and they have changing exhibits and programs as well. For fun, check out Kaos Fun Zone. This familyfriendly establishment is great for families, kids, and adults who want to enjoy an evening of games.
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just on the snacks alone. Their attractions include 50 arcade games, 12 bowling lanes, an indoor trampoline park, laser tag, batting cages, and more. You can also order food and beverages on site. Another great dining option is The Brickyard Restaurant and Ale House. This upscale pub is located in Pine Square, a unique alleyway lined with some local establishments, stage, and some art. In addition to the craft draft beers, their food menu is pretty extensive. In fact, you could get full just on the snacks alone. Try the truffle and parmesan tots or get the sticky pork bites, which are habanero BBQ pork belly burnt-ends. The Brickyard also has a good selection of tacos, burgers, other sandwiches, and entrees, such as bacon-and-cheddar-stuffed meatloaf. They also host various events from time to time, such as trivia and live music. Right across the alley is Sprinkled Sweet Bakery, an artisan bakery and creamery that offers tons of choices for any sweet tooth. In addition to their in-house homemade hard ice cream, which comes in more than a dozen flavors, the baker also offers cheesecakes, cannolis, brownies, cookie sandwiches, cakes, French macarons, cake pops, and desserts galore! If you are staying overnight, consider the Genetti Hotel and Suites. This 10-story landmark hotel is more than a century and has housed hundreds of celebrity visitors and overnight guests, such as FINDIT WINTER 26 | 61
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When the weather warms, make sure you get tickets to a Williamsport Crosscutters baseball game. Gene Kelly, Clarence Darrow, Rita Hayworth, Carl
In its 100 years, a number of well-known players
Sandburg, Bob Dylan, Robert Kennedy and others.
have spent time playing on this field. In recent years,
The décor and ambiance has an old-time feel,
the Little League Classic has also played here
which enhances its character and provides some
between two Major League Baseball teams. They
nostalgia. By walking the lobby and the halls, you
have lots of great promotions, such as dollar dog
feel like you are going down memory lane. A hearty
days and more. And fans can get into the action with
breakfast buffet is available in the morning and
activities like Baseball Bingo during select games.
you will receive a nice welcome note from owner Gus Genetti that is surely to be remembered.
Williamsport is a great place to visit if you like history, sports, and recreation. But the city also has
Just across the street from the hotel is Bullfrog
an impressive display of public art, including murals
Brewery, a microbrewery and brewpub in
and baseball-themed sculptures, worth seeing
downtown Williamsport. This casual eatery also
during your visit as well. For more information, go
features live music on a regular basis. The All
to visitlycomingcounty.com.
American Burger is highly recommended, with its American cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles, topped with thousand island dressing. If you want to be adventurous, another option is the Pittsburger, which includes battered fries, sautéed onion, mushroom, and melted provolone, topped with bacon, lettuce, tomato, and coleslaw. When the weather warms, make sure you get tickets to a Williamsport Crosscutters baseball game. Part of the Draft League, this team played against the Frederick Keys the past few years. But the highlight is really being able to experience Journey Bank Ballpark at Historic Bowman Field. Built in 1926, this stadium is the second
World of Little League Museum Littleleague.org Bullfrog Brewery Bullfrogbrewery.com Thomas Tabor Museum Tabormuseum.org Kaos Fun Zone kaosfunzone.com The Brickyard Restaurant and Ale House Thebrickyard.net Crosscutters Game Crosscutter.com Genetti Hotel & Suites Genettihotel.com
oldest in the nation.
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The holidays are over, and 2025 is in the rearview mirror. Facing the cabin fever days of winter just might be a bit easier with a few side quests.
Background hoto courtesy of Old Westminster Winery
Introducing Old Westminster Winery: the perfect place to escape the dreary winter while spending time in a chic, beautifully appointed greenhouse to toast the year to come. Each enchanting space is enclosed, heated and cozy all winter long. Surrounded by glass, greenery, and the gentle warmth of winter sunlight, guests can sip, savor, and linger as winter is momentarily forgotten. All of which were brought to life by the Baker family's leap of faith in 2011.
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From planting 10,000 grapevines by hand to producing award-winning wines, this family's dream had them named a Top 10 Winery in the U.S. by Cosmopolitan, and Wine Enthusiast recognized them as new leaders in American winemaking by 2024.
thoughtfully composed small plates highlighting peak-season ingredients chosen to complement the winery’s vibrant, food-friendly wines. The extensive beverage menu truly offers something for everyone, including the teetotalers among us.
This family-built treasure now rests in the capable hands of the sibling trio of Drew, Lisa and Ashli. Each has a primary role in the operations, but together they've created magic.
Nationally acclaimed yet deeply personal, Old Westminster Winery balances critical recognition with an unmistakably intimate sense of place.
A winter visit to the winery promises to be a delight for all the senses. The farm-focused and chef-driven menu features wood-fired pizzas and
Old Westminster Winery 1550 Old Westminster Road, Westminster 410-881-4656 oldwestminster.com F facebook.com/ OldWestminster d @oldwestminsterwinery
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Rustic Elegance & Historic Charm 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 www.thelodgesatgettysburg.com
London Meets Frederick. (This Was a Sensible Idea)
This is not a bus ride, this is a rolling day out. Winery tours. History mornings. Grown-up nights out. Family adventures for curious kids. Every ride is built to be the main event, not the transport. A vintage London double decker turns ordinary plans into shared stories. Frederick meets London, cameras come out, expectations disappear, and fun takes the wheel. Tell someone who would wave at strangers and fully commit.
Fun on the Double. Book your moment. Tel: (301)-202-1738 Info@MarylandDoubleDeckers.com
MarylandDoubleDeckers.com