Behind the Spires

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

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

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

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/FY27budgetStay connected, stay informed, and explore what’s ahead for Frederick!#frederickmd #cityoffrederick #behindthespires #inSPIREfrederick #jointhestory

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

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

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

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

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/

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!In this episode, Molly and Ed have a chat with the lovely Denise Hill and Andrew West of the Literacy Council of Frederick County!

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

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

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

Welcome to Behind the Spires! Join us in this Key City Conversation!In this episode, our dynamic duo is reunited, as they speak to the amazing Dr. Sue Paul about the Seniorscapes project here in Frederick!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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!

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!

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

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. 

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!

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!

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).

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.

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.