Podcasts about Frederick County

Police are searching for a 35-year-old Franklin County man accused of holding a woman against her will and forcing her to operate a prostitution house. A Montgomery County jury has found 28-year-old Abraham Perez of Silver Spring guilty of voluntary manslaughter in the death of his 19-year-old brother-in-law, Diego Borja-Cardona. The debate over data centers is showing no signs of slowing down in Frederick County or across Maryland. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Following the response to The Briefing Room's energy series, we're revisiting one of the topics that generated the most listener interest: data centers.In this special bonus episode, Dom Butchko is joined by Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater to discuss why Frederick County has become one of Maryland's leaders in developing local data center policy. The conversation explores how the county approached zoning, public engagement, and long-term planning, while examining the lessons learned from neighboring jurisdictions and the importance of balancing economic opportunity with community priorities.Jessica also shares how Frederick County has strengthened its regulations over time, coordinated with state partners, and worked to ensure residents remain informed throughout the process. For county officials navigating similar conversations, the episode offers practical insights into developing thoughtful local policy in a rapidly evolving industry.Follow us on Socials!MACo on TwitterMACo on Facebook

It's almost time for one of the Valley's tastiest traditions — Hungry for History is back for its fourth year, and Janet sits down with the three people who make it happen to talk taverns, colonial "shrubs," and a walnut cake with a very local backstory. Renee Bayliss (Winchester-Frederick County Convention & Visitors Bureau), Rick Kriebel (Newtown History Center), and Christa Nahhas (La Grange Family Farm) join the show to preview ten days of food, farms, and 250th-anniversary history across Winchester, Frederick County, and Clarke County. From a candlelit Tavern Night in a barn built in the mid-1800s to a possibly apocryphal tale of who really invented the potato chip, this episode is packed with the kind of history that makes you hungry — literally. Tune in for all the details on where to go, what to eat, and why colonists drank a lot more than you'd think. EVENT DETAILS Event: Hungry for History (4th annual) Dates: August 28 – September 7, 2026 (spans Labor Day weekend) Where: Approximately 15 locations across Winchester, Frederick County, and Clarke County, VA Cost: Varies by site/event — some free, some ticketed; vendor fees may apply separately (e.g., Tavern Night entry is free, but food/drink vendors charge individually) Full schedule: visitwinchesterva.com, or pick up a printed program at the Visitor Center, 1400 S. Pleasant Valley Rd., Winchester Select highlights mentioned: Tavern Night — LaGrange Farm, Friday, August 28 Colonial-themed beer — Chilly Hollow Brewing Special traditional menu — Clem's Kitchen (Wayside) Colonial dance demo, queen cakes & shrubs — Winchester-Frederick County Visitor Center Chef's market hall — Belle Grove, during Shenandoah Sips Colonial Kids Kitchen — Handley Regional Library Patsy Cline Block Party (walnut cake) — Patsy Cline Historic House A Taste of Two Communities (Geneva Jackson) — Claremont Farm & Josephine School Museum Additional participating sites: Museum of the Shenandoah Valley, Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park, Stonewall Jackson's Headquarters Museum, Abram's Delight Museum LINKS & RESOURCES Hungry for History full schedule — visitwinchesterva.com Newtown History Center — newtownhistorycenter.org | 540-869-1700 | 5408 Main Street, Stephens City La Grange Family Farm — https://www.lagrangefamilyfarm.com l follow on Facebook for event updates  Winchester-Frederick County Visitor Center — 1400 S. Pleasant Valley Rd., Winchester, open 7 days a week, 9 AM–5 PM THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday

President Donald Trump holds a Cabinet meeting at the presidential retreat Camp David in Frederick County, Maryland, where he acknowledges a $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund designed to pay defendants in the January 6th attack at the U.S. Capitol and others who he says were unfairly targeted by the government is 'dead,' but he adds, 'I wish it weren't'; President also says, 'This has nothing to do with Todd,' referring to Attorney General nominee Todd Blanche, whose confirmation has been held up by a few Republican Senators opposed the fund; President Trump also claims 'Israel is very happy" with his Board of Peace reaching a deal with Hamas to disarm in exchange for Israel withdrawing troops from Gaza; Three potential 2028 Democratic Presidential candidates speak at the National Urban League conference in Nashville, Tennessee: former Vice President Kamala Harris, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg; Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin is reportedly coming under fire from some donors not happy with his leadership. We will talk about it with Politico National Political Reporter Lisa Kashinsky (35); Discussion about what the rise of artificial intelligence means for people's jobs in the future with two governors: Wes Moore (D-MD) and Spencer Cox (R-UT). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Republican lawmakers are voicing strong opposition to the way Maryland's upcoming redistricting special session is being handled. A man convicted in a deadly Hagerstown shooting has been sentenced to life in prison plus 20 years. Frederick County seniors will have the opportunity to refresh their driving skills through a new partnership between the Division of Aging and Independence and AARP. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Officials are searching for the possibility of additional rabid beavers at Cunningham Falls State Park following an attack on a 13-year-old boy. A new opinion from Maryland's highest court explains why Frederick County voters will not be voting on a data center zoning referendum this fall. An 18-month pause on new data center development is now in effect in Montgomery County. Maryland students continue making slow gains on state standardized tests, but math remains a major challenge.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Leesburg man accused of killing his infant sister is now facing an additional charge after allegedly possessing a weapon in the Loudoun County Jail. Silver Spring Man Killed in Single-Vehicle Crash on New Hampshire Avenue A scam email is targeting Xfinity users with a warning that their email accounts will be discontinued unless they upgrade. An upcoming candidate forum is expected to give Frederick County voters their first look at a face-to-face matchup between the two candidates running for county executive.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A beaver bite at Cunningham Falls State Park sent a 13-year-old boy to the hospital Sunday morning. A 53-year-old Frederick County woman will spend up to 40 years in prison for sexually abusing a minor and producing child pornography. Federal prosecutors say a drug trafficking investigation involving shipments from California to Maryland has resulted in a 40-month prison sentence for a Montgomery County man. A majority of Maryland’s 24 public school systems have met the state’s new requirement to pay starting teachers at least $60,000, though some districts had to restructure their budgets to get there. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cleanup continues across Frederick County after powerful weekend storms left a trail of damage. An attempted armed robbery investigation in Frederick ended with a suspect behind bars just hours after the incident. A suspect has been arrested in connection with the May homicide on Security Road in Hagerstown. Authorities in Loudoun County are searching for a suspect after an attempted abduction and assault on a walking trail Wednesday evening. Frederick County residents will have two chances this September to learn more about how the county regulates data center development. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dive into the big current local topic of discussion with Mark and Rachel as they discuss the pros and cons of data centers coming to our local community.Frederick County site:https://www.fcva.us/departments/public-information/dc-faqWinchester Star article:https://www.winchesterstar.com/winchester_star/board-to-consider-ordinance-disallowing-data-centers/article_b87af9ff-4836-5293-ad46-91540371fd86.html?fbclid=IwY2xjawTCEeBleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETExVm1jVkpVVGtrWWl3bHdVc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHvwxnzm_-jaJekW3pw8U70Vk9IiArOVa1XpyEjIIRgGH1seG0y5iLunB6dyl_aem_O_E68Wn36UelMabqYAnVeQShenandoah Valley Electric Coophttps://svec.siraza.net/resources/nps/260603-nps-campaign-2.htmlUpcoming Local Events:Monty Python Pub Crawl - Friday, July 17https://friendsofoldtown.org/event/monty-python-pub-crawl/Shenandoah Summer Music Theaterhttps://www.ssmtva.org

Your potato salad has been out for how long? On this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael welcomes back Amanda Johnson, the Food, Nutrition, and Health Extension Agent based in Frederick County (serving all five surrounding counties), for a genuinely useful summer companion to their November food safety conversation. This time the focus is picnics, cookouts, and family reunions — with the same four-pillar framework Amanda teaches: Clean, Separate, Cook, Chill. Amanda walks through what most home cooks get wrong (yes, you need to wash the outside of a watermelon before you cut it; no, you can't tell doneness by looking at a hamburger; no, your macaroni and cheese is not "already cooked" and safe forever). She covers the current Cyclospora parasite situation in Virginia (fewer than 100 cases, potentially linked to leafy greens, and no — washing produce won't kill the parasite; only good hand hygiene stops the spread). She lays out the temperature danger zone (40°F to 140°F), the two-hour rule for food left out (which drops to one hour when it's 90°F or hotter outside), the proper internal temperatures for chicken, ground meat, and steaks, and the smart practical tips that make the whole thing manageable — from separate coolers for drinks and food, to smaller serving bowls that keep the reserve cold in the cooler, to why you should always reheat leftover mac and cheese to 135°F (Janet: "See, I told him"). Plus a Handwashing 101 refresher (20 seconds, out of the water, Happy Birthday twice or the ABCs will do it). THE FOUR PILLARS OF FOOD SAFETY 1. CLEAN • Wash hands with soap for 20 seconds (out of the water), then rinse and dry • Wash all fresh produce under warm running water — including melon and squash exteriors • Sanitize prep surfaces and utensils • No soap needed on produce; just water and a bit of friction 2. SEPARATE • Never use the same plate for raw meat and cooked meat • Use different utensils at the grill for handling raw vs. cooked • Pack raw meat at the bottom of a cooler, sealed • Keep a separate cooler or bag for drink ice — never use the meltwater ice for beverages 3. COOK • Use a food thermometer — visual cues (grill marks, edges, color) are not reliable • Insert the thermometer from the SIDE of a burger, not top-down • Poultry: 165°F • Ground meat (hamburger, ground lamb): 160°F • Whole cuts (steaks, roasts): 145°F • Reheated leftovers: minimum 135°F 4. CHILL • The temperature danger zone: 40°F to 140°F • Hot foods should stay above 140°F while served • Cold foods should stay below 40°F while served • The two-hour rule: food out longer than 2 hours should be discarded • When it's 90°F or hotter outside, the rule drops to ONE hour • Crock-Pots can HOLD hot food but should NOT be used to reheat cold food SMART PICNIC AND COOKOUT TIPS FROM THIS EPISODE • Keep coolers in the shade • Use SEPARATE coolers for drinks and food (drinks get opened way more often) • Serve from a smaller bowl and refill from the cooler as needed — the reserve stays cold • A bowl of ice under your potato salad extends its safe time on the table • Cover food to keep bugs (and inconsistent hands) out • Bring a food thermometer, always • When you get home from a cookout, EVERYTHING gets reheated to 135°F before eating CYCLOSPORA — WHAT TO KNOW RIGHT NOW • Fewer than 100 confirmed cases in Virginia at time of recording • Transmitted through fecal contamination (water contact on produce is one route) • Washing produce does NOT kill the parasite — good handwashing is your best defense • Symptoms: diarrhea, can last weeks or months and can recur • Treatment: antibiotics and hydration • Suspected source under investigation, possibly leafy greens • Amanda's guidance: DO NOT stop eating fruits and vegetables — just be extra cautious with washing and hand hygiene WHO IS AT HIGHEST RISK FROM FOODBORNE ILLNESS • Elderly adults • Children under 5 • Pregnant women • People with autoimmune conditions or compromised immune systems • For these populations especially, all four pillars matter more. LINKS & RESOURCES • Virginia Cooperative Extension — Frederick County: contact your local Extension office for questions about food safety, nutrition, home food preservation, and health • USDA food safety information: fsis.usda.gov • Foodsafety.gov — federal food safety resource • Amanda's earlier appearance on The Valley Today (November) — holiday food safety, thawing turkeys, and safe leftovers: https://thevalleytodaypodcast.com/turkey-talk-avoiding-foodborne-illness-this-thanksgiving THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday    

Mark and Rachel cover all of the topics of the holiday, including the weather, soccer, local events and even medical tips in the special 4th of July episode.City of Winchester activities:https://www.winchesterva.gov/News-Happenings/Events/Rockin%E2%80%99-Independence-Evehttps://friendsofoldtown.org/event/va250-old-town-jubilee/Frederick County activities:https://visitwinchesterva.com/event/july-4th-celebration/Soccer song of the summer!https://youtu.be/safzyuZNCGI?is=j6pI-rQqABdTL2OD

Some things bear repeating. And on this Public Safety Thursday edition of The Valley Today — the day before the 250th Independence Day weekend — Captain Warren Gosnell of the Frederick County Sheriff's Office does exactly that. Host Janet Michael welcomes him back to the studio with a folder of new laws, a warning about the heat, and a story about one of his deputies whose truck was totaled earlier this week by an impaired driver who didn't move over. The conversation opens with a genuine plea from Sheriff Milholland — via Captain Gosnell — to actually take the Move Over Law seriously (with language slightly stronger than his usual style, quoted with permission). It winds through Frederick County's cooling stations, Our Health Campus's downtown Winchester cooling tents, and why the combination of oppressive humidity, heavy fluid consumption, and celebratory alcohol creates a uniquely dangerous holiday-weekend cocktail. Then Niki Foster's Main Street U-turn question from yesterday's show gets a definitive answer (no, and also no), followed by a rundown of the new Virginia laws effective July 1: court-ordered speed monitoring devices for reckless-by-speed convictions and 100+ mph drivers, helmet requirements for kids on scooters and motorized skateboards, new autism-awareness driver interaction protocols, hands-free-law refinements (a driver improvement course option for first-time offenders), a new live-streaming-while-driving ban, and a new restriction on leaving unattended firearms in vehicles. Plus a firm quote from the Fire Marshal's office on what counts as an illegal firework in Virginia (spoiler: most of them), and Captain Gosnell's 10,500th day on the job. KNOW THE LAW — WHAT CHANGED ON JULY 1, 2026 Five new Virginia traffic-related laws worth knowing: • SPEED MONITORING DEVICES — Courts can now order a speed monitoring device (like an ignition interlock, but for speed) as an alternative to license suspension for reckless-by-speed convictions. Anyone convicted of driving 100+ mph SHALL be required to have one for a set period. DMV can also order one for habitual speeders under the "rapid points" scenario. Cost is paid by the driver. • HELMET REQUIREMENT — Anyone 14 or younger must wear a helmet on motorized skateboards or scooters (motorized or non-motorized). E-bikes are covered under separate existing legislation, and local ordinances are being developed county-by-county. • AUTISM AWARENESS INTERACTION PROTOCOLS — Law enforcement is being trained on interactions with drivers or passengers on the autism spectrum. Drivers can now present a packet during a stop to help mitigate a stressful interaction. Does NOT exempt drivers from any rules of the road. • HANDS-FREE LAW UPDATE — First-time offenders can now be offered a driver improvement course as an alternative resolution. Also: it is now illegal to initiate, participate in, or interact with a live stream while driving (whether the phone is in your hand or in a holder). • UNATTENDED FIREARMS IN VEHICLES — Firearms left in vehicles must be secured in a locked box or container. Applies whether the vehicle is parked or unattended. KNOW THE RULES — MAIN STREET U-TURNS AND PARKING A few clarifications for parking in downtown areas: • You cannot park facing against the direction of travel — parking must face the direction of the flow of traffic in the lane where you're parked. (Frederick County ordinance; Front Royal likely has a similar town ordinance.) • You cannot make a U-turn across a double solid yellow line. No sign is required saying "no U-turn" — the double solid line itself prohibits the crossing. • You CAN legally cross a double yellow line to enter a driveway or parking entryway. Look for the visible break in the double line. • A missing witness doesn't make an infraction legal. FIREWORKS — WHAT'S ILLEGAL IN VIRGINIA Direct from the Fire Marshal's office. In Virginia and Frederick County, any firework that: • Explodes • Propels itself into the air • Travels horizontally • Shoots flaming balls ...is illegal. That specifically includes mortars, rockets, Roman candles, artillery shells, and firecrackers (this list is not exhaustive). The community alternative: attend one of the many public fireworks displays across the Shenandoah Valley over the July 4th weekend. LINKS & RESOURCES • Frederick County Sheriff's Office: https://www.fcva.us/departments/sheriff-s-office • Virginia Motor Vehicle Code (Title 46.2): law.lis.virginia.gov THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday  

Steve Nibbs welcomes in the Supervisor of Athletics for FCPS, Kevin Kendro. They discuss all that happened in the Spring Sports Season. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last year, Family Promise Winchester typically received 40 to 45 requests for help per month. This month, they'll cross 100. On this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael welcomes back Chris Brigante, Executive Director of Family Promise Winchester, for a candid conversation about why family homelessness is surging in our region — and the surprisingly cost-effective math behind preventing it. Chris walks through the numbers most people don't see: the average direct-assistance cost to get a family into stable housing is about $500 per child. The historical cap on a Family Promise move-in package is around $1,500 per family. Of the first 73 families they've moved into homes, 71 are still housed. That's the case for investing in first month's rent — and it's the heart of why federal funding gaps, ALICE-population stagnation, and the rising cost of living are now landing harder on Family Promise's doorstep than ever before. Chris also previews the new THRIVE program (a multi-agency collaboration launching soon with CCAP, United Way NSV, Horizon Goodwill, Connected Communities, and the I'm Just Me Movement, backed by grants from the Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints Church and Valley Health), explains how Family Promise differs from WATTS and Winchester Rescue Mission in the homelessness ecosystem, and shares three remarkable client stories — including a young couple who slept in their car all winter, a mother emerging from incarceration who got herself stably housed within eight weeks, and a hearing-impaired mother who didn't need a dollar of assistance, just someone to read a document with her. THE NUMBERS THAT MATTER DEMAND • Last year: 40-45 monthly assistance requests - this month: 95+ already, likely 100+ by month-end (more than double) • Of the first 73 families moved into housing, 71 are still housed. The two who didn't were lost to unforeseen circumstances (one disappeared, one had to leave for medical reasons) THE COST OF GETTING A FAMILY HOUSED • ~$500 in direct assistance per child to get a family stably housed • ~$1,500 historical cap on a full move-in assistance package per family • That single intervention often eliminates the need for any future assistance WHO'S SERVED • Almost 99% of families moved into housing are gainfully employed • Most are part of the ALICE population: Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed • Service area: Winchester, Frederick County, Warren County, and Clarke County ABOUT FAMILY PROMISE WINCHESTER A 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving families with minor children (or expecting parents) experiencing housing instability across Winchester and the surrounding counties. Family Promise is not government-funded — operations are powered by individual donors, local faith communities, and grants. The organization provides case management, financial counseling, scattered-site emergency family shelter, eviction prevention assistance, first month's rent and security deposit assistance, and connections to a broader network of community partners. The organizational philosophy: view family through the eyes of the child — whoever the child sees as their core loving unit is the family. ABOUT THE THRIVE PROGRAM A new multi-agency program launching soon, with grant backing from the Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints Church and Valley Health Foundation. Designed to bring 50 participants through a six-month structured program of therapy, financial literacy classes, life coaching, and job assistance — with case management distributed across partner agencies based on each family's needs. Partners include Family Promise Winchester, Winchester CCAP, United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley, Horizon Goodwill Industries, Connected Communities (low/no-cost mental health), and the I'm Just Me Movement. HOW TO HELP • Donate online: familypromisewinchester.org (donation link on the front page and under the Get Involved tab) • Send a check: Family Promise Winchester, 131 South Cameron Street, Winchester, VA 22601 • Call Chris directly for a coffee and conversation: 540-323-8038 • Spread the word — Chris welcomes the chance to come speak to civic groups, churches, and businesses • Need help yourself? An application is on the front page of the website LINKS & RESOURCES • Family Promise Winchester: familypromisewinchester.org (donations, applications, contact) • Partner organizations: Winchester CCAP, United Way of the Northern Shenandoah Valley, Horizon Goodwill Industries, Connected Communities, I'm Just Me Movement  THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday

Real Talk Real Estate Podcast — New Episode Drop! You've seen the headlines: "Near-record number of sellers are pulling their homes off the market!" Sounds scary, right? Here's the real talk — it's not. On this week's episode, we're breaking down what's actually driving sellers to the sidelines, why the data tells a completely different story than the clickbait, and what it means if YOU are thinking about selling right now. Spoiler: 5.5% of listings were pulled in May. BUT re-listings are also near record highs. Sellers aren't fleeing — they're regrouping. And existing home sales just posted their biggest jump since December. This market isn't crashing. It's adjusting. And there's a big difference. Tune in, get informed, and stop letting headlines make your decisions for you. HOUSE OF THE WEEK 2915 Fry Rd | Jefferson, MD $650,000 (New Price!) 8 Beds | 3 Baths | 4,044 Sq Ft | 5+ Private Acres This is not your average listing. We're talking a ranch-style home on over 5 acres of Frederick County countryside — with a fully separate in-law suite, an oversized 4-car detached garage with a finished upper level, and dining room views of longhorns and horses grazing across the road. That's not a description. That's a lifestyle. 6 beds + 2 baths on the main level Independent lower-level suite — private entrance, 2 beds, 1 bath, full kitchen 4-car garage + finished bonus space above Wooded privacy AND cleared open land Room for horses, gardens, hobbies — whatever you've been waiting for space to do New price. Rare find. Jefferson, MD. 866-702-9038 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Morning News Express, Bob Miller welcomed County Executive Jessica Fitzwater for her monthly visit. She talked about the vandalism during the elections. She also talked about the county spending over 3 million dollars to buy land to start a Compost site.

Gary Morton joined Bob Miller on the Morning News Express, to share his reasoning for running for Sheriff. From His Website: Gary is a lifelong resident of Frederick County, has dedicated his life to serving his community. Born at Frederick Memorial Hospital in 1961, Gary grew up in Frederick City, attending local schools: North Frederick Elementary, Elm Street School, and Governor Thomas Johnson High School, from which he graduated in 1979.. In May 1980, Gary joined the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office, beginning as a Corrections Officer. After completing the Corrections Academy, he served five years in the Detention Center, rising to the rank of Sergeant in the Corrections Bureau. In 1985, Sheriff Robert Snyder selected Gary to become a Deputy Sheriff, and he went on to graduate from the Western Maryland Police Academy. You can find more info at his website See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Montgomery County, MD, pauses the processing of data centers permits for six months, Student journalists in MCPS protest a new rule that requires prior review of all school-sponsored publications. We have crowd-sourced data on MCPS schools affected by HVAC failures. And Delegate Kris Fair from Frederick County has an explainer for what happens with the replacement ballots Maryland had to send out. And more. Music from Seth Kibel's brand new album, Clarinet Without A Net.

On the Morning News Express, Bob Miller was joined by Mason Carter, Frederick County Council Member for District 5, for a discussion on the issues shaping the county's future. While data centers continue to dominate much of the public conversation, Bob pressed Carter on what he believes is the single biggest issue facing Frederick County. Carter didn't hesitate, pointing to Route 15 and the need to widen the heavily congested corridor. He agreed that many state leaders in Annapolis don't experience the daily traffic frustrations that local residents do, making it difficult for them to fully understand the urgency of the problem. The conversation also touched on the ongoing debate surrounding data centers, with Carter sharing his perspective on the opportunities and concerns tied to future development in the county.

On the Morning News Express, Bob Miller was joined by Tony Peterson, minister of Living Water Shower Ministry, to talk about the incredible work the organization is doing for those experiencing homelessness in Frederick County. Based in Walkersville, the ministry operates a mobile 6-stall shower trailer, providing a simple but essential service: access to clean showers and personal hygiene. Founded by individuals who have experienced homelessness themselves, Living Water Shower Ministry is dedicated to restoring dignity, offering compassion, and helping meet the everyday needs of some of our most vulnerable neighbors. Tony shared how the ministry got started, the impact it's having in the community, and how people can support its mission.

Building on an annual tradition, Kevin Kendro, the supervisor of athletics and extracurricular activities for Frederick County Public Schools, stops by The Final Score podcast to deliver what's affectionately been dubbed The State of FCPS Athletics Address. Kendro and host Greg Swatek review the school year it was for Frederick County sports as 10 teams and more than 30 individuals won state championships over the course of the fall, winter and spring seasons. They also talk about big achievements away from the field as Carroll County Public Schools is set to join the Central Maryland Conference for the 2027-28 school year and girls flag football became an officially sanctioned varsity sport by the Maryland Public Secondary School Athletic Association after starting in Frederick County in 2023. What other big projects might be in the works for FCPS in regards to athletics? How do people feel about the CMC championship games? What's on the summer agenda leading into the start of fall sports practice in August? Kendro answers those questions as well. Prior to that conversation, FNP sports reporter Alexander Dacy is back from his week of vacation. He and Greg wrap up the spring sports season for Frederick County schools and touch on all of the state championships. They also discuss the surprising success so far of the Washington Nationals.

NEW EPISODE ALERT — Real Talk Real Estate Podcast is LIVE! The market didn't go the way anyone expected in 2026 — and this week, we're breaking down exactly why. Back in late 2025, economists were calling for lower rates, more sales, and a stronger rebound. Instead? Rates climbed, buyers pumped the brakes, and the forecasts got revised. Here's what actually changed: Mortgage rates now projected at 6.37% — up from the original 6.12% forecast Existing home sales revised down to 4.2M (was 4.5M) Home prices? Still expected to rise +2.6% nationally New construction buyers may actually have more negotiating leverage right now The good news? This isn't a crash — it's a pause. Pent-up demand is real, and when rates settle, buyers are going to come rushing back in. If you're sitting on the fence, that's worth thinking about. Tune in this week for the full breakdown. Find us wherever you listen to podcasts — search Real Talk Real Estate HOUSE OF THE WEEK 2700 Poffenberger Rd | Middletown, MD | $630,000 If you've been dreaming about space, privacy, and mountain views — this one's going to stop your scroll. Tucked into the scenic Middletown Valley on 1.85 acres of rolling countryside, this full brick-front Colonial delivers the kind of setting that's getting harder to find in Frederick County. 3,374 Finished Sq Ft 4 Beds | 3.5 Baths Wood-burning fireplace Vaulted primary suite with skylight Renovated primary bath — walk-in shower & double vanity Upper-level laundry Finished walkout lower level — rec room, office, guest space — you decide Rear deck with open countryside views Fresh paint + all new carpet throughout You get the countryside AND the convenience — minutes from Middletown, Jefferson, and Burkittsville — coffee shops, restaurants, parks, and wineries are all right there. OPEN HOUSES THIS WEEKEND — Come see it! Saturday, June 6 | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM Sunday, June 7 | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Questions? Call or text 866-702-9038 or visit DayHomeTeam.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mark and Rachel sit down with members of Frederick County's Parks and Rec Department, Andrew Keefauver (Superintendent of Recreation) and Becky McGraw (Program Supervisor) to discuss all of the many events, activities, and opportunities they offer to our community.https://www.fcva.us/departments/parks-recreationUpcoming Events:Thursday, June 4 - “Sunset Series” at Bowman Library Ampitheaterhttps://www.facebook.com/events/921274610955230/?rdid=hBg3ms9Lh785E0ig&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F1B5CBNkqCa%2FSunday, June 14 - Juneteenth Celebration at MSVhttps://www.themsv.org/events/juneteenth-celebration-3/

In the fall of 1909, a strange fear settled over the hills and farms of Maryland. Newspapers carried reports of a monstrous winged creature said to stalk the countryside with a host of bizarre descriptions pouring out from witnesses, including glowing eyes, huge claws, and boiling brimstone dripping from its snout. The creature became known as the Snallygaster, and for a time, its legend gripped entire communities until its rapid demise. More than twenty years later, in 1932, the panic returned, proving that some stories refuse to stay buried. But was everything as it seemed? Or were there far uglier things at play than flying monsters?SOURCES Boyton, Patrick (2011) Snallygaster: The Lost Legend of Frederick County. Self Published Bridgeton Evening News (1909) The Devil Runs Rampant. Bridgeton Evening News, Fri 22 Jan, p3. NJ, USA Sheperdstown Register (1909) After The Colored People. Shepherdstown Register, Thu 4 Feb, p3. WV, USA. The Tennesseasn (1887) The Devil Of Leeds. The Tennessean, Sun 16 Oct, p12. TN, USA. Chicago Tribune (1909) Devil Which Alarms Jersey Likely To Be Captured Soon. Chicago Tribune, Fri 22 Jan 1909, p5. IL, USA. The Evening Sun (1932) Bovalopus Snallygaster Swoops Down On Village. The Evening Sun, Fri 25 Nov 1932, p50. MD, USA. The Evening Sun (1932) John Barleycorn Ends Career Of Snallygaster. The Evening Sun, Thurs 1 Dec 1932, p3. MD, USA. The News (1932) Snallygaster Captured: Huge Owl Is Shot Down. The News, Thurs 1 Dec 1932, p1. MD, USA. ------ For almost anything, head over to the podcasts hub at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠darkhistories.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Support the show by visiting our Patreon for bonus episodes and Early Access: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/darkhistories⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Dark Histories books are available to buy here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://author.to/darkhistories⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Dark Histories merch is available here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3GChjk9⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with us on Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://facebook.com/darkhistoriespodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Or find us on Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://twitter.com/darkhistories⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/dark_histories/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Or you can contact us directly via email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠contact@darkhistories.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or join our Discord community: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://discord.gg/cmGcBFf⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Dark Histories Butterfly was drawn by Courtney, who you can find on Instagram @bewildereye Music was recorded by me © Ben Cutmore 2017 Other Outro music was Paul Whiteman & his orchestra with Mildred Bailey - All of me (1931). It's out of copyright now, but if you're interested, that was that. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After Urbana High School to became the first Frederick County team to win a state championship in girls lacrosse, the coach of the Hawks, Ryan Hines, his daughter, Josey, a senior attack, and Colby Johnson, a senior attack, are this week's guests on The Final Score podcast. The trio chats with host Greg Swatek about the significance of the achievement and the significance of the breakthrough, finally getting past Broadneck after the Bruins had knocked them out in closely contested state finals in each of the last two seasons. They describe the dramatic final minute of the state-quarterfinal win over Broadneck and how the team maintained its poise and determination and positive frame of mind when the momentum of the game had switched against them, potentially setting the stage for more heartbreak. Johnson describes what it was like to sprint the length of the field and score the game-winning goal with seven seconds to play. The players and Hines also talk about finishing the job with victories over Perry Hall and Leonardtown in the state semifinals and championship game, respectively, and what the future holds now that they have achieved this remarkable feat.

On the Morning News Express, Bob Miller was joined by Leslie Schultz, Executive Director of SOAR — Supporting Older Adults through Resources, Inc., to talk about the many ways the organization helps support the senior community in Frederick County. Leslie shared information on the services and resources SOAR provides to older adults and caregivers, along with details on their upcoming Resource & Education Fair happening tomorrow at Frederick Community College. The event is designed to connect seniors and families with valuable programs, health information, and community support all in one place.

After advancing to a state final for the third time in the last four years, coach Mike Frownfelter, senior pitcher Evan Zarroli and senior catcher D.J. Staub are this week's guests on The Final Score podcast. Host Greg Swatek asks Frownfelter and the players if this is the season the Hawks finally get the monkey off their backs and overcome that final hurdle and claim their first state title in baseball. Weather permitting, Urbana is scheduled to face Dulaney in the Class 4A championship game at 4 p.m. Friday at Ripken Stadium in Aberdeen. Frownfelter and the players talk about why the team is playing its best at the right time — Urbana has outscored the opposition 25-2 in three playoff games so far — and why the program has been so remarkably consistent. Tuesday's 5-0 victory over Broadneck marked the Hawks' fourth consecutive appearance in the state semifinals. They discuss a lineup that doesn't have any easy outs and a pitching staff that has consistently shut down the opposition when it has mattered most this season. They talk about what it's going to take to beat Dulaney, how previous adversity in big games has strengthened the team and what it would mean for all three of them to finally break through and claim that elusive state title. Prior to that conversation, FNP sports reporter Alexander Dacy joins Greg to discuss state finals week for Frederick County teams in baseball, softball and boys and girls lacrosse.

After Middletown High's baseball team won its third consecutive regional championship, coach Andy Baker and senior center fielder Cory Godlove are this week's guests on The Final Score podcast. Baker and Godlove chat with host Greg Swatek about the Knights' momentous and memorable 5-4, come-from-behind victory over Century in the Class 2A West Region I championship game. It marked the third straight year Middletown had beaten Century in a regional final. The discussion centers around Baker's longevity in his job and the Knights' ability to pull through and overcome adversity. Godlove talks about being a three-year varsity player, a three-time regional champ and a state champ with the Knights back in 2024. Baker and Godlove also talk about why this has been such a successful season for Middletown baseball. Prior to that discussion, FNP sports writer Alexander Dacy joins Greg to talk about the state playoffs for Frederick County teams in baseball, softball and lacrosse.

After the Walkersville High boys lacrosse team won the Central Maryland Conference small school championship, continuing one of its best seasons in school history, star face-off man Angelo Torres and standout goalie Gavyn Dodson are this week's guests on The Final Score podcast. Torres tells host Greg Swatek how he became a face-off man and the key to becoming a good one, while Dodson explains why he wanted to be a goalie and how fearless one has to be to play the position. Torres and Dodson also discuss why this has been such a great season for Walkersville lacrosse, some of the most memorable moments and victories along the way and the key going forward for the Lions if they are going to seriously challenge for the Class 2A state championship. Prior to that conversation, FNP sports reporter Alexander Dacy joins Greg to talk about the spring sports playoffs across Frederick County and the paths forward for some of the top state-title contenders in various sports.

Host Janet Michael sits down with Captain Warren Gosnell ("Goz") from the Frederick County Sheriff's Office for another edition of Public Safety Thursday. The two kick off with some relatable chaos — a mic that wasn't turned on, a misplaced phone, spring allergies, and a hilarious on-the-way-in story involving blue lights and a very startled driver. Then they get into the real meat: why Frederick County is leaning into automated traffic enforcement, how LIDAR works, and why treating people with kindness — whether you're the officer or the driver — goes a long way. Spring Chaos & Getting Here Janet's mic was off at the top of the show (she was almost perfect) Goz's busy week: Apple Blossom Festival, a teaching trip to Roanoke, and a bout of bronchitis Spring means more people, more events, more traffic — and longer days on the cul-de-sac On the Way In Stories Goz grabbed KFC nuggets, then flashed his blue lights back at a driver who tried to warn him of a cop ahead Janet watched a car blow a red light right in front of her on Route 522 Is It Illegal to Flash Your High Beams? Letter of the law vs. spirit of the law Flashing lights on ordinary vehicles technically aren't permitted as signals The real goal: slow people down and keep roads safe Law enforcement doesn't mind if you warn others — if it prevents crashes, it's a win Automated Traffic Enforcement in Frederick County School zone speed cameras already in place Red light cameras under consideration at high-crash intersections Possible construction zone cameras on the horizon Why the shift? The county has grown to nearly 130,000 people across 416 square miles — not enough deputies for both calls for service AND proactive traffic enforcement How LIDAR Works Radar beams spread wide (thousands of feet); LIDAR beams stay under 6 inches at 1,000 feet LIDAR operates at the speed of light — vehicle-specific, no room for error Camera only activates if speed exceeds 10 mph over the limit No human bias, no "why didn't you stop that other car?" arguments Kindness on Both Sides of the Window Goz is large and loud — doesn't mean he's mean; body cam footage has cleared him more than once He now tells every driver: "I'm not yelling at you, I'm trying to be heard over traffic" Story of the Ohio driver who ran a red light and accused Goz of "ruining his perfect driving record" Goz's own history: multiple speeding tickets after moving back from Houston, where 75 mph was survival speed The Bottom Line Automated systems aren't replacing officers — they're filling gaps human hands can't cover Deterrence is the goal; if you follow the rules, cameras don't affect you "Safety over convenience."

WMAL GUEST: TOM NEUMARK (President of Better Maryland Schools and Parent Activist) on the upcoming Frederick County School Board elections. He discusses the four available seats and the high stakes for the district following controversial changes to gender equity policies and preferred pronoun mandates. WEBSITE: BetterMarylandSchools.org SOCIAL MEDIA: X.com/BetterMDSchools Where to find more about WMAL's morning show: Follow Podcasts on Apple Podcasts, Audible, and Spotify Follow WMAL's "O'Connor and Company" on X: @WMALDC, @LarryOConnor, @PatriceOnTheAir, @JGunlock, and @HeatherHunterDC Facebook: WMALDC and Larry O'Connor Instagram: WMALDC Website: WMAL.com/OConnor-Company Episode: Friday, May 1, 2026 / 6 AM HourSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WMAL GUEST: SAM ROSENBLOOM (Candidate for the Frederick County Board of Education) on his background in nuclear engineering and biophysics, his vision for technical skills in the classroom, and the ongoing debate over gender equity policies in Frederick County schools. WEBSITE: SamForSchoolBoard.com READ: Frederick County Board of Education Narrowly Approves Changes to Gender Equity Policy Where to find more about WMAL's morning show: Follow Podcasts on Apple Podcasts, Audible, and Spotify Follow WMAL's "O'Connor and Company" on X: @WMALDC, @LarryOConnor, @JGunlock, @PatricePinkfile, and @HeatherHunterDC Facebook: WMALDC and Larry O'Connor Instagram: WMALDC Website: WMAL.com/OConnor-Company Episode: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 / 6 AM HourSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.