Behind the Spires

Episode 45: The Frederick Flood of 1976, Donald Lee Putman & Ricki Putman Sep 24, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!

In honor of the 50th anniversary of the Great Frederick Flood of 1976, we sit down with Donald Putman, a former Frederick Police Officer who was on patrol when the historic flood swept through downtown Frederick.

Donald takes us back to that day, recalling the rapidly rising water, emergency rescues, and the challenges first responders faced as roads and buildings throughout the city became flooded. He shares firsthand stories of using boats to rescue people trapped in downtown businesses, working alongside firefighters and the National Guard, and navigating a city where communication was made even more difficult after floodwaters damaged the local telephone system.

The conversation also explores the aftermath of the flood, including the damage to downtown businesses, vehicles being swept through the streets, the community response, and the efforts of police officers, firefighters, local businesses, and residents to begin putting Frederick back together.

This is a firsthand account of one of the most significant floods in Frederick's history, told by someone who was there, responding to calls, helping residents, and witnessing the destruction firsthand.

👉 Check out the Putman Family Fund: frederickcountygives.org/funds/putman-family-fund👉 Check out the City's Public Meetings: frederickmd.gov/publicmeetings#FrederickMD

#FrederickMaryland #GreatFrederickFlood #FrederickFlood #1976Flood #FrederickHistory #LocalHistory #MarylandHistory #FrederickPolice #FrederickFireDepartment #FrederickCounty

Episode 44: Reengagement, Jason Francis Sep 11, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!What does it take to help young people find their next opportunity?In this episode, we sit down with Jason Francis, Re-Engagement Program Manager with the City of Frederick’s Office of Opportunity and Innovation, to discuss the programs connecting young people with education, career opportunities, resources, and their community.Jason explains Next Steps, a drop-in program for young people ages 14–24 who may be disconnected from school or career pathways. We also talk about THRIVE, a family-focused initiative designed to strengthen relationships, build resilience, and provide positive experiences for young people and their families.The conversation also looks ahead to the future Frederick Youth Center, expected to open in 2028. The center was shaped in part by input from Frederick’s youth and will include spaces such as a gym, game room, café, flexible classrooms, and a wellness room.From workforce readiness and mentorship to family activities and community partnerships, Jason shares how Frederick is working to create meaningful opportunities for young people today while building toward an even stronger support system for the future.👉 Learn about the Office of Opportunity & Innovation: http://frederickmd.gov/opportunity👉 Check out the City's Public Meetings: frederickmd.gov/publicmeetings#FrederickMD #FrederickMaryland #YouthPrograms #YouthCenter #NextSteps #THRIVE #Community #YouthOpportunity #WorkforceDevelopment #cityoffrederick #behindthespires #inSPIREfrederick #jointhestory

Episode 43: Solid Waste and Recycling, Paul Varga Sep 02, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!

Join us for an insightful conversation with Paul Varga, Communications Manager for the Frederick County Division of Solid Waste and Recycling, who's creative “edutainment” approach has made him one of local government’s most recognizable voices. Paul shares how he modernizes recycling outreach with humor, cultural references, and clear communication, earning national recognition as a top local government influencer. He offers a detailed look at how Frederick County’s waste and recycling systems operate, what happens after the blue bin is collected, why “wish‑cycling” can unintentionally cause major problems in the recycling stream, and more! This episode is an engaging and practical look at how Frederick County is working to reduce waste, protect public safety, and help residents recycle smarter.

👉 Learn about County Recycling: https://frederickcountymd.gov/recycle👉 Learn about City Composting: https://frederickmd.gov/compost👉 Check out the City's Public Meetings: frederickmd.gov/publicmeetings

#frederickmd #cityoffrederick #behindthespires #inSPIREfrederick #jointhestory

Episode 42: The Weinberg Center, Stephanie Chaiken & Dorian Young Aug 28, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!Join us Behind the Spires with Stephanie Chaiken and Dorian Young from the Weinberg Center for the Arts as they celebrate the theater’s 100th anniversary and share how this historic venue continues to shape Frederick’s cultural identity. They talk about the Weinberg’s evolution from a 1920s movie palace to a modern performing arts center, the community‑driven programming behind the Centennial Season, and exciting new initiatives like the Carnegie Hall Wellbeing Concert Series and expanded arts education partnerships in Frederick schools. Stephanie and Dorian also highlight the beloved Frederick Speaker Series, accessibility improvements, collaborations with local organizations, and the role the Weinberg plays in supporting Frederick’s vibrant arts community. Plus, they give a preview of upcoming shows and events!

👉 Learn about the Weinberg Center: weinbergcenter.org

👉 Check out the City's Public Meetings: frederickmd.gov/publicmeetings#frederickmd

#cityoffrederick #behindthespires #inSPIREfrederick #jointhestory

City Update for 8.13.2026 Aug 13, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Here's your City Update where each episode, we join you to bring clear, factual updates directly from City meetings, departments, and official sources in 15 minutes or less! We cover what you missed, what’s happening right now, and what’s coming up next so you can stay informed about your local government without having to sit through every meeting.Clear. Direct. Straight from the City.Episode Links:Golden Mile Survey - https://arcg.is/q45zq2Golden Mile Steering Committee - https://arcg.is/15a4Hf1 Golden Mile Small Area plan page - https://www.cityoffrederickmd.gov/1075/Golden-Mile-Small-Area-PlanPublic Meetings - frederickmd.gov/publicmeetingsBoards and Commissions vacancies - frederickmd.gov/vacanciesNACs - frederickmd.gov/nacsTime capsule survey - frederickmd.gov/timecapsulesurveyWeinberg - weinbergcenter.orgfestival of flight - https://www.cityoffrederickmd.gov/1698/Frederick-Festival-of-Flight#cityoffrederick #localnews #frederickmd

Episode 41: City of Frederick Council President, César Díaz Aug 05, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!Join us Behind the Spires with, City of Frederick Council President, César Díaz as he shares his journey here in Frederick, what led him to run for office, and how he’s approaching leadership in his first term on the Frederick City Council. César talks about representing District 2, the Golden Mile, engaging immigrant communities, and how affordability, development, traffic, and walkability shape daily life in Frederick. He explains the newly passed City Values Act, why it matters for immigrant safety and public trust, and how strong civic participation improves local government. César also reflects on Frederick’s growth, transportation challenges, including e‑bikes, sidewalks, infrastructure, and his priorities for making city government more accessibleto residents. It’s an insightful look at public service, community engagement, and the future of Frederick, Maryland.👉 Learn about your city council: frederickmd.gov/citycouncil👉 Check out the City's Public Meetings: frederickmd.gov/publicmeetings#frederickmd #cityoffrederick #behindthespires #inSPIREfrederick #jointhestory

City Update for 7.7.2026 Jul 07, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Here's your City Update where each episode, we join you to bring clear, factual updates directly from City meetings, departments, and official sources in 15 minutes or less! We cover what you missed, what’s happening right now, and what’s coming up next so you can stay informed about your local government without having to sit through every meeting.Clear. Direct. Straight from the City.Episode Links:- Cultural Asset Map - frederickmd.gov/culturalassetmap- Celebrate Frederick - celebratefrederick.com- USA250 - frederickmd.gov/usa250- Public Meetings - frederickmd.gov/publicmeetings- cityoffrederickmd.gov#cityoffrederick #localnews #frederickmd

Episode 40: LIVE | Frederick’s 4th, USA250 Jul 07, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us on this special LIVE episode at Frederick's 4th, an Independence Day Celebration at Baker Park!Stay connected, stay informed, and explore what’s ahead for Frederick!#frederickmd #cityoffrederick #behindthespires #inSPIREfrederick #jointhestory #usa250 #america250 #4thofjuly2026

Episode 39: Animal Control, Willie Walton Jun 30, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!

On this episode of Behind the Spires, we sit down with Willie Walton, Deputy Division Director of Frederick County Animal Control, to explore the vital work of protecting animals and serving the community. From the exciting expansion of the county's animal shelter to the adoption process, pet safety tips, cruelty investigations, and how you can help through volunteering or fostering, Willie shares an inside look at the people and programs making a difference for animals across Frederick County. Whether you're thinking about adopting a pet or simply want to support your local shelter, this episode is full of valuable information and heartwarming stories.

👉 Check the Shelter out: https://frederickcountymd.gov/15/Animal-Control

👉 Check the City out: cityoffrederickmd.gov

Episode 38: USA250, Ysela Bravo & Shuan Butcher Jun 22, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!Join us Behind the Spires with Ysela Bravo and Shawn Butcher, co‑chairs of the Frederick County USA 250 Commission, as they share how our community is preparing to commemorate America’s Semi quincentennial. Ysela and Shawn discuss their work with nonprofits, heritage tourism, arts, and local government; the origins and purpose of the America 250th celebrations; and why Frederick’s rich Revolutionary‑era history makes this milestone especially meaningful here. Learn how the Frederick County 250 Commission is partnering with municipalities, Visit Frederick, local historians, artists, cultural groups, and residents to create inclusive events that explore both the triumphs and complexities of America’s story. The BTS crew also preview July Fourth plans, the July 8 nationwide Declaration of Independence reading, volunteer opportunities, and how every resident can “find themselves in the 250” by connecting personal identity with history, community, and civic participation.👉 Check the City out: cityoffrederickmd.govStay connected, stay informed, and explore what’s ahead for Frederick!#frederickmd #cityoffrederick #behindthespires #inSPIREfrederick #jointhestory #usa250

City Update for 06.15.2026 Jun 16, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Here's your City Update where each episode, we join you to bring clear, factual updates directly from City meetings, departments, and official sources in 15 minutes or less! We cover what you missed, what’s happening right now, and what’s coming up next so you can stay informed about your local government without having to sit through every meeting.Clear. Direct. Straight from the City.Episode Links:- Budget - frederickmd.gov/FY27budget- Celebrate Frederick - celebratefrederick.com- Public Meetings - frederickmd.gov/publicmeetings- cityoffrederickmd.gov#cityoffrederick #localnews #frederickmd

Episode 37: Hill Street Skatepark, Jonathan Whitting Jun 02, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!Jonathan shares why the existing skate park is being fully rebuilt. Learn how the city partnered with world‑renowned designers Grindline Skateparks, how community input is shaping features like skateable art, accessibility, and flow, and what upgrades are coming to the Park, including a new pump track, revitalized fields, and enhanced amenities. With insights into the design‑build process, public engagement, federal grants, and long‑term maintenance planning, this episode highlights the future of Frederick’s skate scene and the city’s investment in high‑quality recreational spaces! Plus watch never before seen footage of Tony Hawk Skating at the Hill Street Park Skatepark in 2011!👉 Check the City out: cityoffrederickmd.govStay connected, stay informed, and explore what’s ahead for Frederick!

City Update for 05.13.2026 May 13, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Here's your City Update where each episode, we join you to bring clear, factual updates directly from City meetings, departments, and official sources in 15 minutes or less! We cover what you missed, what’s happening right now, and what’s coming up next so you can stay informed about your local government without having to sit through every meeting.Clear. Direct. Straight from the City.Episode Links:- SECURE - frederickmd.gov/secure - Budget - frederickmd.gov/FY27budget- Mayor's Give a Day in May - frederickmd.gov/giveaday- Parking - frederickmd.gov/parking- Weinberg Center for the Arts - weinbergcenter.org- Fair Housing Commission - cityoffrederickmd.gov/131/Fair-Housing-Commission- Volunteering - hhs.cityoffrederickmd.gov/161/1737/Volunteering- Public Meetings - frederickmd.gov/publicmeetings- cityoffrederickmd.gov#cityoffrederick #localnews #frederickmd

Episode 36: Sustainability, Jenny Willoughby & Lauren Paulet May 11, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!

Join us with Jenny Willoughby and Lauren Paulette from the City of Frederick Sustainability Department as they break down what sustainability really means, from pollinator protection, Bee City USA Frederick, and native plant gardening to the city’s expanding composting program, clean water initiatives, and climate resilience work. Learn how Frederick’s new Climate & Energy Action Plan supports environmental equity, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and strengthens vulnerable communities.

Jenny and Lauren also share practical tips on native plants, supporting pollinators, bird habitat, and simple actions residents can take to make their homes and neighborhoods more sustainable. Whether you're interested in composting in Frederick, creating a pollinator-friendly yard, or getting involved in local sustainability events and outreach, this episode is packed with ways to protect the environment and build a greener Frederick.

👉 Check the City out: cityoffrederickmd.gov

👉 Check out Sustainability: https://cityoffrederickmd.gov/891/SustainabilityStay connected, stay informed, and explore what’s ahead for Frederick!#frederickmd #cityoffrederick #behindthespires #inSPIREfrederick #jointhestory

Episode 35 - LIVE | Mayor Give a Day in May May 07, 2026

Join us Behind the Spires for a special LIVE episode at Frederick's City Hall as we kick off the Mayor’s Give a Day in May community service initiative. City employees, volunteers, and Blessings in a Backpack Frederick come together to pack weekend meal bags for students facing childhood hunger and food insecurity in Frederick.

Join Ed and Molly as they talk with organizer Shana Knight about volunteer opportunities, Mayor Michael O’Connor about the importance of community service and civic engagement, and Dr. Ashley Waters about how Blessings in a Backpack supports local families, weekend meals for kids, and the growing need in our community.

👉Learn how to get involved, make an impact, and support volunteering in Frederick throughout May at FrederickMD.gov/giveaday.

Stay connected, stay informed, and explore what’s ahead for Frederick!#frederickmd #cityoffrederick #behindthespires #inSPIREfrederick #jointhestory

Episode 34 - City of Frederick Council Member, Sarah Hempel Irani Apr 20, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!Join us for a conversation with Council Member Sarah Hempel Irani, artist, sculptor, and representative of Frederick’s District 5. She shares her journey from moving to Frederick as a young sculptor to creating the iconic Claire McCardell statue on Carroll Creek and ultimately running for the City of Frederick Council. She talks about the creative community, neighborhood identity, street safety, affordable and “price‑appropriate” housing, and the importance of supporting artists through studio space and cultural investment. Sarah also highlights the unique neighborhoods of District 5, ongoing discussions about zoning, density, and housing needs, and how residents can stay engaged through NAC meetings, City Minutes updates, and direct communication with Council Members.This episode offers an inspiring look at public service, community connection, and the role of the arts in shaping Frederick’s future.👉 Learn about your city council: frederickmd.gov/citycouncil👉 Check out the City's Public Meetings: frederickmd.gov/publicmeetings#frederickmd #cityoffrederick #behindthespires #inSPIREfrederick #jointhestory

Episode 33: Water Quality, Erin Signorella & Cullen McAskill Apr 13, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!Join us on the latest episode of Behind the Spires as we chat with Erin Signorella and Cullen McAskill from the City of Frederick's Water Quality Department about how our drinking water stays clean and safe every day! Erin and Cullen break down how water is tested throughout the city, how wastewater and drinking water are monitored, what causes taste and odor changes, how PFAS (forever chemicals) and lead service lines are handled, and why Frederick’s tap water consistently meets strict state and federal standards. They also share tips for residents, explain the annual Consumer Confidence Report, and give a preview of their Earth Day activities! Whether you’re curious about water testing, treatment, compliance, or Frederick’s infrastructure, this episode highlights the team working behind the scenes to protect our most important resource: clean water!👉 Learn more about Frederick's Water Quality: https://www.cityoffrederickmd.gov/1719/Water-Quality-DepartmentStay connected, stay informed, and explore what’s ahead for Frederick!#frederickmd #cityoffrederick #behindthespires #inSPIREfrederick #jointhestory

City Update for 04.03.2026 Apr 03, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Here's your City Update where each episode, we join you to bring clear, factual updates directly from City meetings, departments, and official sources in 15 minutes or less! We cover what you missed, what’s happening right now, and what’s coming up next so you can stay informed about your local government without having to sit through every meeting.Clear. Direct. Straight from the City.Episode Links:- Police Chief Survey - https://communityfeedback.opengov.com/portals/frederickmd/Issue_14883- Budget - frederickmd.gov/FY27budget- Public Meetings - frederickmd.gov/publicmeetings- cityoffrederickmd.gov#cityoffrederick #localnews #frederickmd

Episode 32: The City of Frederick FY27 Budget, Mayor Michael O'Connor Apr 01, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!

Join us for an insightful conversation with Mayor Michael O’Connor, returning for his third appearance on the podcast. The Mayor shares why he’s optimistic about the future of Frederick, Maryland, highlighting exciting community projects as Frederick continues to grow; reflecting on what makes the City of Frederick a welcoming, vibrant place to live.

We dive into the FY27 City of Frederick Budget, exploring how the administration prioritizes core city services, infrastructure improvements, public safety investments, expanded parks and recreation programming, and an innovative new early childhood and childcare initiative. Mayor O’Connor also breaks down the budget process, community engagement efforts, and how technology is helping modernize local government.

👉 Learn more the FY27 budget: frederickmd.gov/FY27budget

Stay connected, stay informed, and explore what’s ahead for Frederick!

#frederickmd #cityoffrederick #behindthespires #inSPIREfrederick #jointhestory

City Update for 03.18.2026 Mar 18, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Here's your City Update where each episode, we join you to bring clear, factual updates directly from City meetings, departments, and official sources in 15 minutes or less! We cover what you missed, what’s happening right now, and what’s coming up next so you can stay informed about your local government without having to sit through every meeting.

Clear. Direct. Straight from the City.

Episode Links:

- frederickmd.gov/usa250

- www.cityoffrederickmd.gov

#cityoffrederick #localnews #frederickmd

Episode 31: City of Frederick Council Member, Peter Brehm Mar 17, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!In this episode, we sit down with Peter Brehm, the first District 3 City Council Member in Frederick, to talk about local leadership, city growth, and the issues that matter most to Frederick residents.Peter shares his journey running for office, along with what he heard from voters while knocking on doors across District 3. We discuss major topics shaping the city today, including development, affordable housing, infrastructure, neighborhood concerns, and more!The conversation also explores how the City of Frederick's Council works, how residents can stay involved in local government, and why community feedback plays a crucial role in planning the city’s future.If you’re interested in the City of Frederick news, updates, local government, city planning, development, and affordable housing in Frederick, this episode offers an inside look at the challenges and opportunities facing the city today.Learn more about city meetings and local government in Frederick and stay informed about the future of the community.👉 Learn about your city council: frederickmd.gov/citycouncil👉 Check out the City's Public Meetings: frederickmd.gov/publicmeetings#frederickmd #cityoffrederick #behindthespires #inSPIREfrederick #jointhestory

City Update for 03.04.2026 Mar 06, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Here's your City Update, where each episode, we join you to bring clear, factual updates directly from City meetings, departments, and official sources in 15 minutes or less! We cover what you missed, what’s happening right now, and what’s coming up next so you can stay informed about your local government without having to sit through every meeting.Clear. Direct. Straight from the City.Episode Links:- Residents can access FRED on the City website or by texting “Hello” to 833-313-3733- CityofFrederickMD.gov/parking- CityofFrederickMD.gov/hpc- frederickmd.gov/FY27budget- www.cityoffrederickmd.gov#cityoffrederick #localnews #frederickmd

Episode 30: Frederick Tourism & History, Jake Wynn Feb 02, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!

Explore Frederick, Maryland with Jake Wynn from Visit Frederick! Ed is out this week so joining Molly is Producer Lance and they have another very special guest in the studio! It’s Jake Wynn, Senior Marketing & Communications Manager at Visit Frederick and they discuss everything that makes Frederick a top travel destination. Discover things to do in Frederick, Maryland, from vibrant public art and historic sites to amazing local restaurants, breweries, and boutiques. Jake shares how Visit Frederick promotes tourism, highlights Carroll Creek Park, and gives a sneak peek into the upcoming USA250 celebrations.

Learn about Frederick’s rich Civil War history, Revolutionary War connections, and why heritage tourism is booming. Plus, find out how local businesses and artists can get involved in the America 250th anniversary events. 👉 Plan your trip: https://www.visitfrederick.org🎙 Check out Jake’s podcast: https://wynninghistory.com/public-history-podcast

Episode 29: Boomtown, Filmmaker Salyer McLaughlin Jan 21, 2026

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!

In our latest episode, Ed and Molly sit down with Filmmaker Salyer McLaughlin to talk about the history behind his first cinematic release, Boomtown, a movie premiering at the Weinberg Center on January 24, 2026! It’s a docudrama about a little City you may know… Boomtown is inspired by the book "From the Brink to Brilliant." The film centers on a turning point in Frederick’s history in October of 1976. A devastating flood destroyed priceless film, photographs, and historical records… nearly breaking the spirit of the community.

For more Boomtown information: https://boomtownfrederick.com/

For Weinberg Center tickets visit: https://weinbergcenter.org/performances/boomtown/

Episode 28: The Public Affairs Special, Jen Gerlock, Lance Duvall, Shana Knight Dec 23, 2025

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In this episode, Molly and Ed celebrate the end of the year with some very special guests! Our very own Manager of Public Affairs Jen Gerlock joins us with Podcast Producer, DJ Lazy River, and Production Supervisor Lance Duvall to go over their experiences in 2025 and what they loved best about Behind the Spires! We also have another secret special guest in the closing segment! It's not really a secret but she is definitely one of our very special guests, Community Partnerships Advisor Shana Knight!

Episode 27: Parking in Frederick, Steve Johnson & Lisa Dilda Dec 03, 2025

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In this episode, Molly and Ed put a few bucks in the meter to sit down with Steve Johnson & Lisa Dilda with the Parking Department, to talk all about how Frederick handles parking in the city!

Episode 26: Housing and Human Services, Stuart Campbell Nov 10, 2025

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In this episode, Molly and Ed sit down with Stuart Campbell, the City’s new Director of Housing and Human Services. With more than 30 years of experience in housing and community development, he brings deep expertise and a passion for helping people move toward stability and opportunity. We’ll talk about his vision for the department, and the programs making a difference in our community every day.

Episode 25: The Frederick Youth Council Returns, Muikiio Wafula & Ethan Burks Oct 31, 2025

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In this spooky episode, Molly the Narwhal and Ed the Penguin sit down with Muikiio Wafula and Ethan Burks, members of Frederick's very own Frederick Youth Council! They talk about upcoming events and what it's like to be a part of such a great organization!

Episode 24: Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Jodee Rudy Oct 27, 2025

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In this episode, Molly and Ed spread the word about Breast Cancer Awareness Month with Jodee Rudy, a Nurse with the Frederick County Health Department’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program!

Episode 23: Frederick PD Recruitment, Corporal Deb Kidwell & Samantha Long Oct 20, 2025

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In this episode, Molly and Ed get the word out on FPD recruitment! They speak with Corporal Deb Kidwell and making her third BTS appearance, Samantha Long! The crew talks about what they're looking for in recruits, the benefits of becoming an FPD Officer, and some fun factoids in between!

Episode 22: The Frederick Community Health Center, Kimether Redmon Oct 06, 2025

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In this episode, Molly and Ed get 21ccs of health knowledge shots, and they learn all about the services provided by the Frederick Community Health Center with special guest Kimether Redmon, a nurse practitioner with the Health Center!

Episode 21: The Frederick Municipal Airport, Andrew Moore & Shon Dempsey Sep 23, 2025

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In this episode, Molly and Ed soar the skies behind the spires to have a chat with the always amazing Andrew Moore, Airport Manager, and Shon Dempsey, Assistant Airport Manager. If you ever wanted to learn about some interesting Airport facts, like all the famous people who've touched down there, to getting the low-down on this year's Festival of Flight, the 21st episode of Behind the Spires is for you!

Episode 20: Frederick's New Street Sweeper, Jennifer Hammond & Taurean Washington Sep 08, 2025

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In this ULTRA episode, Molly and Ed have a chat with the wonderful Jennifer Hammond of our Stormwater Management team about how street sweeping protects our neighborhoods and waterways! We then sit down with local artist Taurean "Mr. T" Washington, who is bringing the city's new street sweeper to life in a whole new way through an upcoming children’s activity book about street sweepers.

Episode 19: The Literacy Council of Frederick County, Andrew West & Denise Hill Aug 25, 2025

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In this episode, Molly and Ed have a chat with the lovely Denise Hill and Andrew West of the Literacy Council of Frederick County!

Episode 18: Vote Frederick, Phyllis Hane Aug 11, 2025

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In this episode, Molly and Ed sit down and discuss city elections with our wonderful City Clerk, Phyllis Hane! We talk everything about elections and even starring roles in fun city videos!

Episode 17: Public Art, Laila Jadallah Aug 04, 2025

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In this episode, Molly and Ed chat with the City of Frederick's very own Manager of Arts and Culture, Laila Jadallah, about her history and all the cool art we see around our beautiful city!

Episode 16: National Night Out, Sam Long, Sgt. Rebecca Carrado & Nevada Jul 28, 2025

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In this episode, Molly and Ed chat with organizers behind this year's National Night Out event, which takes place on August 5, 2025, 6-8pm.#frederickmd #cityoffrederick #behindthespires #inSPIREfrederick #jointhestory #nationalnightout

Episode 15: SeniorScapes, Dr. Sue Paul Jul 14, 2025

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In this episode, our dynamic duo is reunited, as they speak to the amazing Dr. Sue Paul about the Seniorscapes project here in Frederick!

Episode 14: the National Clustered Spires High Wheel Race, Eric & Jeanna Rhodes Jul 08, 2025

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In this episode, Molly is joined by producer Lance, as they host Frederick's "power couple" - Eric and Jeanne Rhodes, who discuss the National Clustered Spires High Wheel Race that will be taking place again in downtown Frederick, July 12, 2025.

Episode 13: The New Frederick PD Headquarters, Chief Jason Lando & Captain Aaron Lapp Jun 27, 2025

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In this episode, Molly takes a tour of the new Frederick Police Department Headquarters with FPD Public Information Officer, Sam Long. They then speak with Chief Jason Lando and Captain Aaron Lapp of FPD to discuss the opening of this new facility.

Bonus Episode - Secretary of the Maryland Department of Labor, Portia Wu Jun 12, 2025

In this bonus episode of Behind the Spires, we talk with Portia Wu, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Labor.

Episode 12: Good Morning Frederick, Dani Gurrie Jun 09, 2025

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In this episode, Ed and Molly speak with Good Morning Frederick host, Dani Gurrie as we get the low down on doing a local morning show here in Frederick!

Plus, our dynamic duo continues to update us on all the local things happening in our city!

Episode 11: Risk, Safety, and Compliance, Jeana Panarella May 27, 2025

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In this episode, Ed and Molly speak with the City of Frederick's Training Coordinator with the Office of Risk, Safety, and Compliance, Jeana Panarella! We get the 411 on when to call 911 for stop the bleed and cpr training! Plus we learn more about some additional safety tips for home.

Plus, our dynamic duo continues to update us on all the local things happening in our city!

Episode 10: Opportunity and Transformation, Ericka Rohrbaugh May 12, 2025

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In this episode, Ed and Molly speak with the City of Frederick's Manager of Opportunity and Transformation, Ericka Rohrbaugh! We all learn about Good Jobs, Great Cities, development of the Youth Center, the 12-24 Collaborative, and so much more!

Plus, our dynamic duo continues to update us on all the local things happening in our city!

Episode 9: Historic Preservation, Christina Martinkosky Apr 28, 2025

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In this episode, Ed and Molly travel back in time with our very own Manager of Historic Preservation, Christina Martinkosky! We all learn about the Sites of Enslavement Project, Henry Williams, and a whole lot more on this episode.

Plus, our dynamic duo continues to update us on all the local things happening in our city!

Episode 8: The Frederick Youth Council, Judah and Alaina Apr 21, 2025

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!

In this episode, Ed and Molly reach out to the youth of the city and learn what's important to them! They welcome the Frederick Youth Council to the show and chitty-chat with Judah and Alaina! We all learn about some great ideas for events, share some youth concerns, and even talk about a possible city-wide talent show?!?!

Plus, our dynamic duo continues to update us on all the local things happening in our city!

Episode 7: Business Outreach, Jarad Bowens Apr 14, 2025

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!

In this episode, Ed and Molly get the low down on local Frederick businesses with our very own Business Outreach Coordinator with the Office of Equity and Inclusion, Jarad Bowens! They got jokes to share, businesses to plug, and lots of good information to learn!

Plus, our dynamic duo continues to update us on all the local things happening in our city!

Episode 6: A Budget Discussion with Mayor Michael O'Connor Apr 07, 2025

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!

In this episode Ed and Molly find themselves interviewing their first repeat guest! The City of Frederick's very own Mayor Michael O'Connor, drops by to answer some questions about the newly released budget!

Plus, our hosts continue to update us on local things happening in our city!

Episode 5: Celebrate Frederick, Jen and Anna Mar 31, 2025

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!

In this episode, Ed and Molly get to sit down with special guests, Jen and Anna from the City of Frederick's Special Events department, Celebrate Frederick! They learn about the history of special events in Frederick and some fun facts along the way! This episode has everything, dancing, hot sauce tasting, quick round trivia, and so much more. Plus, our hosts continue to update us on local things happening in our city!

Image credit line: Julia Schrecengost, Time Bleeds a Rusty Red, monotype, linocut, laser-etched woodcut, 2024

Episode 4: Parks & Rec, Sean and Alex Mar 17, 2025

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!

In this episode, Ed and Molly hang out with their special guests, Sean and Alex from the City of Frederick's Parks and Rec department. They explore the vast amount of activities to do in the city and Ed learns once and for all what a fishing rodeo is! Plus, our hosts continue to update us on local things happening in our city!

Image credit line: Nicole Fox Abuhamada, "The Golden Beatle," 2021-2023, oil on canvas. Image courtesy of the artist.

Episode 3: Frederick Police Chief, Jason Lando Mar 03, 2025

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!

In this episode, Ed and Molly get to chat with their special guest, Frederick's Police Chief, Jason Lando. They dive in on his history, what his first few weeks on the job were like, the work he is most proud of, and some harder-hitting questions you'll want to hear the answers to! Plus, our duo continues to update us on local things happening in our city!

Episode 2: Mayor’s Chief of Staff, Gayon Sampson Feb 17, 2025

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!

In this episode, Ed and Molly highlight the recent Cultural Connection Panel and the African Americans of Excellence 2025 events, toss some questions to their very special guest, Mayor’s Chief of Staff, Gayon Sampson, continue to update us on local things happening in our city, and Ed brings out the hot sauce and you'll never guess who gives it a try!

Bonus Episode: SNOW ALERT - Featuring Chowan Brightful Feb 10, 2025

In this bonus episode of Behind the Spires, we go over some important snow information with the City of Frederick's Community Engagement Specialist Chowan Brightful. We also discuss a little bit about the Neighborhood Advisory Council (NAC).

Episode 1: Mayor Michael O'Connor Feb 03, 2025

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!

In this episode Ed and Molly introduce themselves, they highlight a recently opened local business, deep dive into some questions for the City of Frederick Mayor Michael O'Connor, drop some updates for things happening in our city, and the crew try to figure out what PEMDAS stands for.

Episode 000 - Hello from the Behind the Spires Crew Jan 29, 2025

Welcome to Behind the Spires, we are here to bring you this brand new bi-weekly podcast where we will go behind the spires to bring you updates on Frederick projects, policies and events, and each week. On top of that, each episode will have a special guest to help us bring the business of Frederick… forward.

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