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Tips for getting the most out of your 50th high school reunion

By Gary Bennett

Most of the basketball team, with assistant coach Jim Smith (third from left), at the 40th class reunion in 2015.

This article appears in the Winter 2026 issue of the Frederick News-Post’s Prime Time magazine. 2/25/26.

Looking back half a century, there’s no denying 1975 and 1976 were momentous years. If you graduated high school then, you experienced a great deal: the Vietnam War and the military draft ended; a president of the United States nearly got impeached and sent to prison but was then pardoned; an unelected, grandfatherly “sort-of” incumbent took on a toothy, charismatic peanut farmer from Georgia for the presidency; and the nation celebrated its bicentennial.

The sensitive singer-songwriter craze of the early ’70s gave way to harder rock and a new thing called disco. Movies gave us classics like “Jaws,” “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” and “Rocky.” We watched shows like “All in the Family,” “M*A*S*H,” “Happy Days” and a brand-new late-night program developed just for us, “Saturday Night Live.” The recession of the early ’70s was mostly in the rearview mirror and the malaise of the late ’70s was still ahead. Times were pretty good and the future looked bright.

So, if you graduated high school in ’75 or ’76 like me, it is perfectly understandable — and permissible — to want to relive those gentler, more innocent times, even if only for one evening, at a class reunion.

You may be surprised to learn that even in this age of pervasive social media and virtual meetings, in-person class reunions are still a thing. A big thing. It is estimated that about 250,000 happen every year in the U.S. The reason is simple: we all crave connection. And let’s face it, high school was an important part of our lives and the friendships we made there often last a lifetime.

Since it’s early in the year, chances are good you are about to be invited to your own class reunion. Perhaps it’s a big one. My advice: go for it.

I attended my 50th high school reunion in August and had a wonderful time. The key, I believe, is to keep expectations low and egos in check. You can’t predict how the evening will unfold, but you can prepare. Get the registration list ahead of time, review yearbooks and check Facebook. Make it your business to know a little about the current lives of your classmates. Once there, circulate as best you can and show genuine interest in others, even those you barely knew. Name tags are your friends, so feel free to stare as much as you need. We all look different now, but there’s no denying we shared an exciting, formative time in fairly close quarters.

Most of the basketball team with head coach Dick Bittner, in middle with basketball, at 50th class reunion in 2025.

Sure, reunions can be scary, but that’s part of the appeal. If nothing else, they are fascinating anthropologic studies for the curious. Who got fat? Who remained a bachelor? Who had seven kids? And if you don’t go, there’s no getting it back.

With that in mind, here are some tips for having a swell time at your upcoming high school reunion.

Tip #1 — Go to it!

Why not go? The food will probably be good, the drinks are legal and the music is your own. If it’s a milestone anniversary, it will likely attract more classmates than any other. If you are on the shy side, that works in your favor — you can move from one superficial (but sincere) conversation to the next all night long. If you must, consider it a challenge to step outside your comfort zone. Working a room is a skill that will always serve you well.

Tip #2 — Don’t worry about how you look or what life has thrown at you.

Embrace who you are and be comfortable in it. The dirty little secret is that everyone is far more concerned with themselves than with you. At my 50th reunion, almost everyone was retired, so what you did for a living or how successful you were no longer mattered. It never even came up. Conversation naturally turned to safe topics like family, travel and hobbies.

Tip #3 — Don’t worry about awkward high school romances.

Just laugh them off. Chances are you and your old flame will barely interact. If you do, it’s easy to keep things brief — you have others to see. At my high school, only one set of classmates eventually married, so you won’t be alone in wondering about what might have been. Take it for what it was — an adolescent, hormonally driven rite of passage.

Tip #4 — Bury old grudges and competitions.

These things are so far in the past they barely matter now. Look at classmates with fresh eyes and let go of old judgments. Like you, everyone has evolved. That said, don’t minimize any high school bullying that was egregious. If you know your old tormentor will attend, you may decide not to go. But if you can summon the courage and keep expectations low, it can also be a growth experience.

Tip #5 — Circulate and talk to everyone.

As tempting as it is to stick with a few old pals, make a point of seeking out as many classmates as possible. Be sure to introduce yourself. A great opening line is “Tell me about your life!” or “What have you been up to?” It allows the other person to take the lead and control the narrative.

Gary Bennett at his 1975 high school graduation.

Tip #6 — Volunteer to help organize the event, even if you live far away.

It’s not fair for all the work to fall on the same people who stayed in their hometowns. In the age of Zoom, FaceTime and Google Groups, step outside your comfort zone and help, even if only a little. The more voices involved, the better the event will be.

Tip #7 — Be ready to show pictures of your grandkids, but let your classmate go first.

Everyone is proud of their grandkids, even if they’re at the top of their class in reform school. There’s no safer subject.

Tip #8 — Come with a spouse, significant other or friend.

They may not want to, but it’s usually safest. You don’t want to look lonely — even if you’re not — or like someone on the prowl. Years ago, I attended my wife’s 40th high school reunion as the unknown spouse and had a great time. I had no expectations and my only role was to be supportive. Sell that to your companion.

Tip #9 — Find out if any old teachers will attend and invite them if possible.

Teachers often have a lot invested in their classes and are sometimes only a few years older than their students. It was hard to imagine then, but at age 30, some teachers were only about 12 years older than their classes — a gap that feels minuscule now. Many are likely still around and would love to attend. At my recent reunion, I learned the head basketball coach planned to come. I bought a basketball on my way to the event, had all the players sign it and presented it to him in a small ceremony. He was genuinely touched.

Tip #10 — If classmates want to keep the night going, go for it.

If things are going well and the ice has been broken, snacks or drinks afterward can feel natural. I highly recommend it. You can continue conversations in a quieter setting and perhaps gain both an old friend and a new one.

Bonus tip — Leave a bit early.

If you’ve smiled, been friendly, self-effacing and genuinely interested in others, then — like the old show business saying — you’ll “leave them wanting more.”

Class orator Gary Bennett at his 1975 graduation.

Gary Bennett is a longtime Frederick resident who spends his time hiking, biking, volunteering and providing childcare for grandchildren. He is married and retired from his career as a nonprofit marketing executive.

‘Sharp-dressed’ ZZ Top rocker to thrash and bash in Frederick

By Gary Bennett

This article appears in the February 19, 2026 issue of the Frederick News-Post’s “72 Hours” entertainment magazine.

With his trademark chest-length beard, dark “Bandito” sunglasses, colorful suits and African caps known as “Bamileke hats,” ZZ Top front man and guitar virtuoso Billy Gibbons may be one of the most instantly recognizable figures in rock ‘n’ roll history. His 1983 hit “Sharped Dressed Man” seems like a no-brainer for Gibbons to have written and recorded with his Texas bandmates.

His sound is one of a kind, too. Music critics have called his guitar work “growling” and “part traditional, part contrary, and part of the deep seam of Texas weirdness.” Others have described his sound as “loud, macho, greasy and distorted.”

In 1969, along with his fellow long-bearded sidekick, the late bassist Dusty Hill, and drummer Frank Beard, who ironically doesn’t sport a beard, they formed the Texas-based, ass-kicking, blues-rock group ZZ Top and enjoyed extensive chart and touring success in the ‘70s and ‘80s.

Billy Gibbons and the BFG’s will take the stage at the Weinberg Center for the Arts at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 24. Tickets are available at weinbergcenter.org/shows/billy-gibbons.

As ZZ Top, the group enjoyed immense popularity beginning in the ‘70s with albums like 1972’s “Rio Grande Mud,” 1973’s “Tres Hombres,” 1975’s “Fandango!” and 1976’s “Tejas.” They created boisterous FM radio hits with “La Grange” and “Tush” that are still staples on classic rock stations today. By the mid-’70s they became renowned for their live shows, which translated into award-winning music videos in the ‘80s. They are still going strong today.

ZZ Top’s distinctive sound featured muscular guitar riffs and a hard driving beat. But it was their physical look that turned them into pop icons. After taking a three-year break in the late ‘70s, they came back with their new, distinctive look. Hill and Gibbons looked like wayward and rascally twins with hats, glasses and long, scraggly beards, bookending the ironically un-bearded, seemingly straight-laced drummer, Frank Beard.

Success continued into the ‘80s with albums like 1981’s “El Loco” and 1983’s “Eliminator.” MTV loved their videos featuring beautiful girls and fast cars. Singles “Give Me All Your Loving,” “Sharp Dressed Man” and “Legs” topped music charts. ZZ Top was the world’s top-grossing touring act in 1986.

Chart success waned in the ‘90s, but ZZ Top continues to be a popular touring act to this day.

Bassist Dusty Hill passed away in 2021 at age 72 but was replaced, at his wish, by his longtime guitar technician Elwood Francis. At the time of Hill’s passing in 2021, ZZ Top held the record for longest running active musical group with the same lineup. They celebrated their 50th anniversary in 2019. A ZZ Top tour is scheduled for later in 2026.

ZZ Top has altogether released 15 studio albums and sold an estimated 50 million records. They have won three MTV Video Music Awards and, in 2004, were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

As a solo artist, Gibbons has released three acclaimed albums: “Perfectamundo” in 2015, “The Big Bad Blues” in 2018 and “Hardware” in 2021. All were supported by his current band, the BFG’s, who accompany Gibbons on tour.

72 Hours interviewed Gibbons in January to talk about his life, career and upcoming show in Frederick.

You are considered one of the world’s best guitarists. How did you get interested in the guitar in the first place? Did it come naturally to you?

Two compelling early life events pointed to the path I ultimately took: seeing Elvis Presley performing live and, shortly thereafter, attending the now famous recording session at Bill Holford’s ACA studio down in Texas, where B.B. King and his band began cutting up with an unforgettable series of one-take wonders. It was right then and there the what-to-do message was clearly delivered. It’s still what we’re doing.

ZZ Top still exists and still tours. What made you decide to go off on your own and create a new band?

The BFG Band is a radical and definitively different aggregation, offering alternative means of expression. The BFG appearances remain rather loose while girding the delivery with that ingrained Texas thing, making it an undeniable win-win.

How does this new band differ from ZZ Top?

It’s something of a sonic departure bolstered with the insane talents of Mike “The Drifter” Flanigin on the Hammond B3 and behind his ancient Fender bass-guitar and, of course, our old friend Chris “Whipper” Layton who brings those infamous backbeat blues chops to the fore. Yeah, it’s another simple trio, but long ago we fell for a stoic style of minimalism in delivery which totally remains solid without specific direction. No question, it’s our decisive way to “thrash and bash.”

The beards that you and Dusty grew and the sunglasses and hats — how did that look come about and why? You were successful in the early ’70s with a more conventional look.

It was 100% serendipitous. An unexpected long break from stage and studio work concluded, and we were brought back together both sporting this more hirsute, chin-whiskered appearance and thereafter decided along the lines of “heck, let’s just go with it!” Our pals at Boot Star in Los Angeles keep us in fine threads, helping us look sharp to this day. Frank Beard, of course, didn’t really fall into place, but his name entertainingly took care of it.

In Frederick, can we expect to hear the ZZ Top hits with your new band?

Yes, Concord Records is firing up the upcoming BFG disc with the new material. Additionally, we certainly touch upon some tried and true hot numbers that maintain recognition, yet that dirty and down home BFG approach seems to enrich the delivery. There may even be a tip toward splashing through some not often performed deep cuts.

You are touring with Dwight Yoakam in 2026. How did that come about?

We’ve remained friends with Dwight for more than a few decades. In fact, I was his houseguest for a lengthy stay while my place was being refurbished. ZZ Top and Dwight were also label mates for the longest time, and we got to enjoy each other’s company and creations over the years. His brand of country sound is the rockin’ kind, which is more than OK with us.

Can you tell us anything about the new ZZ Top album? I understand some previously recorded tracks from Dusty Hill are on there.

There’s a wave of all sorts of material from some early sessions we’re aiming to incorporate into a final mix. There could be a bonus, having the entire band represented in those rare and raucous tracks.

You are also working on a new solo album. What can you tell us about that?

The ongoing recording sessions continue with the brainstorming around all angles surrounding the material at hand. We will all certainly be leaning on that invisible internal jukebox jury to attempt to determine the favorites that make final release. Suffice it to say, in the wee, wee hours, they make for some loud and gettin’ louder sounds.

Frederick County’s mysterious claim to presidential fame

By Gary Bennett

President Reagan with Richard Allen at a working luncheon at Camp David during a visit of President Jose Lopez Portillo of Mexico in 1981.

This article appears in the February 12, 2026 issue of Frederick News-Post’s “72 Hours” entertainment magazine.

Located within Catoctin Mountain Park in northern Frederick County, Camp David is a rare national historic site that virtually no American ever gets to see.

Many visitors have been close to the secluded enclave — hiking at Cunningham Falls or traveling Route 77 near Thurmont — without ever laying eyes on it. Camp David spans roughly 125 acres and is protected by about 200 Marines on any given day. There is intentionally no signage directing visitors to its location.

Mysterious, perhaps, but every president since Franklin Roosevelt has used the camp for business or pleasure — more often the latter. Within its confines, presidents and their guests have debated world affairs and enjoyed golf, tennis, bowling, swimming, skeet shooting, horseback riding, basketball, wallyball or movie nights in a private theater.

Now more than 80 years old, Camp David began modestly. Completed by the Works Progress Administration in 1940, it was originally known as Hi-Catoctin and served as a federal retreat.

In 1942, Franklin Roosevelt sought relief from Washington’s humid summers, appropriated the retreat and renamed it “Shangri-La” after the fictional kingdom in “Lost Horizon.” Presidents have been showing off the site ever since, and more than 50 heads of state have visited.

The following stories come from Michael Giorgione, who served as Camp David’s commander under Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, as recounted in his book “Inside Camp David.”

According to Giorgione, “One head of state, Prime Minister Winston Churchill, huddled there with President Roosevelt in 1943 to pore over plans for the invasion of Normandy. Since the camp is just a short drive from Thurmont, the leaders drove to the [now defunct] Cozy Restaurant so Churchill could see what a jukebox looked like. He handed the stunned owner some coins for the jukebox and bought a beer.”

Roosevelt enjoyed sitting on the porch, often with guests, sipping whiskey and smoking cigars. He even had an extra-wide door installed outside his bedroom, opening like a drawbridge, to allow him to exit quickly in his wheelchair in case of fire.

President Harry Truman seldom visited, preferring trips to Key West and the “Southern White House.” Even so, he added steam heat to the presidential lodge, allowing the retreat to be used year-round.

President Dwight Eisenhower was a frequent visitor and is credited with renaming the retreat after his grandson David, though it retains the official government name Naval Support Facility Thurmont. An avid golfer, Eisenhower built a compact four-hole golf course and enjoyed grilling steaks outside his cabin. He famously hosted Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev there in 1959.

Presidents Kennedy and Johnson used Camp David sparingly.

John F. Kennedy visited primarily for consultations with cabinet members, members of Congress and former President Eisenhower during the Cuban Missile Crisis and after the failed Bay of Pigs invasion. He enjoyed swimming in the heated pool. Giorgione recounts an embarrassing incident in which overheated water left a sheen of melted asphalt on Kennedy’s face — an episode the president handled with humor.

Lyndon B. Johnson preferred his Texas ranch but Lady Bird Johnson loved Camp David’s flowers and peaceful setting. “I leave my troubles outside the gate,” she once said. Johnson nevertheless used the retreat for meetings with advisers about the Vietnam War.

Richard Nixon enjoying the great outdoors at Camp David in 1972.

President Richard Nixon was a frequent visitor, averaging about one visit every two weeks during his five years in office. He favored Camp David’s quiet during the Vietnam War and Watergate era and enjoyed tennis, bowling — often alone — and playing piano. Nixon was described by Giorgione as “stand-offish,” though “Mrs. Nixon was very nice.” Nixon made more modifications than any other president, including adding an hourglass-shaped pool at Aspen cabin and building Laurel, an entertainment cabin often featured in the media.

President Gerald Ford, by contrast, was remembered fondly. “He was a prince. He and his wife were great,” Giorgione wrote, adding that they were “just like you and me.” Ford often ate lunch with staff in the mess hall and enjoyed walking in the woods, followed by Secret Service agents. Betty Ford loved the flowers and regularly thanked those who tended them.

President Jimmy Carter spent limited time at Camp David but hosted its most consequential event — the Camp David Accords. In 1978, Carter personally moderated peace talks between Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin and Egyptian President Anwar Sadat, leading to the Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty and a Nobel Peace Prize. Carter was described as cordial to staff, enjoyed woodworking and took walks with his daughter Amy.

President Ronald Reagan was a frequent visitor who recorded his weekly radio addresses from the camp. He especially enjoyed horseback riding and movie nights.

President George H.W. Bush often used humor in notes about camp maintenance. “Mike — the toilet in the presidential bathroom is not responding to presidential commands,” he once wrote to Commander Mike Berry. In 1992, Bush’s daughter Dorothy was married at Camp David — the first wedding held there. Bush installed a regulation horseshoe pit and enjoyed playing wallyball with staff.

President Bill Clinton visited infrequently, averaging only a few trips per year. He attempted, unsuccessfully, to broker a peace agreement between Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak and Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat in 1993. The Clintons enjoyed walking the tree-lined paths.

President George W. Bush was a regular presence, spending hundreds of days at Camp David. He hosted foreign leaders, planned responses to the Sept. 11 attacks and enjoyed basketball and card games. Giorgione recounts Bush’s concern that his bed was uneven, prompting an exhaustive investigation — including Giorgione himself lying on the bed to test it. At the end of his second term, Bush refurbished the basketball court, Leatherwood, for incoming President Barack Obama.

President Barack Obama found Camp David exquisitely beautiful and hosted the Group of Eight summit there in 2012 after protests ruled out Chicago. A basketball enthusiast, he made frequent use of the court.

President Joe Biden visited about once every three or four weeks during his term, often bringing extended family. He enjoyed relaxing, playing games and occasionally hosting high-level policy discussions.

Donald Trump spent little time at Camp David, preferring Mar-a-Lago or his Bedminster property. “You know how long you’d like it? For about 30 minutes,” he once told a reporter. He did not host foreign dignitaries there and later canceled plans to host Taliban leaders.

George W. Bush at Christmas time at Camp David, 2005

•••

Camp David Presidents’ Day Quiz

Do Democratic or Republican presidents tend to visit Camp David more often? Answer: Republican presidents

Which president visited the most times? Answer: Reagan

Which president was most like “one of the guys” at Camp David? Answer: Ford

Which president hosted Camp David’s seminal event, the Camp David Accords? Answer: Carter

Which president installed the first golf course at Camp David? Answer: Eisenhower

Which presidents played basketball at Camp David? Answer: George W. Bush and Obama

Which president didn’t care for Camp David at all? Answer: Trump

Which president gave Camp David its current name? Answer: Eisenhower

Which president enjoyed bowling at Camp David? Answer: Nixon

Which president enjoyed playing wallyball at Camp David? Answer: George H.W. Bush

Top romantic movies for your Valentine’s Day enjoyment

By Gary Bennett

Ryan O’Neill and Ali McGraw in Love Story, 1970.

This article appears in the February 12, 2026 issue of Frederick News-Post’s “72 Hours” entertainment magazine.

We’ve all seen it on screen: opposites who squabble a little too much but eventually find they are perfect for each other. Or the perfect couple who is torn apart by circumstances but eventually, against all odds, find their way back to each other. In either case, you can look forward to lingering eye contact, slight smiles, swelling music, and the eventual embrace and kiss.

Is there anything better than a good romantic movie? Not on Valentine’s Day! And, there are so many to choose from. From sweeping dramas to lighthearted comedies, the genre is one of the most enduring in Hollywood. If you’re planning the perfect day with your sweetheart, you’ll want to cap it off with the perfect romantic movie.

Here is my list of the best romantic movies of all time. Some are well-known classics from a bygone era and some are newer favorites. Some are funny; some are serious. Some have a happy ending; some sad. But, no matter your choice, you’ll impress your significant other with your thoughtfulness and creativity in picking just the right movie.

10. “The Notebook,” 2004

This tear-jerker has blue collar Ryan Gosling (Noah) recklessly and single-mindedly chasing his wealthy dream girl Rachel McAdams (Allie). Spoiler alert: sad ending.

9. “Dirty Dancing,” 1987

This off-limits romance between a young debutante and her slightly older, “bad boy” dance instructor is set in 1950s Pocono Mountains and features a new type of threatening music called “rock ‘n’ roll” and accompanying racy dance moves. This musical romp stars Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey. Happy ending.

8. “Love Story,” 1970

Another tear-jerker featuring the unlikely pairing of a wealthy Harvard student (Ryan O’Neil as Oliver) and a working-class music student (Ali McGraw as Jenny) and their battles to be together despite the protests of parents and society. “Love means never having to say you’re sorry.” Sad ending.

7. “When Harry Met Sally,” 1989

This light, romantic comedy explores the eternal question “Can men and women just be friends, or are they doomed to eventual couple-dom?” Stars Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan provide the answer. Movie has the comedic line of the century uttered by director Rob Reiner’s real-life mother portraying a restaurant patron who reacts to Ryan’s fake public orgasm with, “I’ll have what she’s having.” Happy ending.

6. “Sleepless in Seattle,” 1993

The story follows a widower, Sam (Tom Hanks), who calls a radio show to discuss his heartbreak and attracts the attention of countless female listeners. Among them is a woman named Annie (Meg Ryan) who is engaged to be married but feels like something is missing and falls for Sam. Happy ending.

5. “Titanic,” 1997

The unlikely love story between poor Jack (Leonardo DiCaprio) and wealthy, engaged Rose (Kate Winslet) may play second fiddle to the impending disaster of the Titantic, but that makes it all the more urgent. The two have an undeniable chemistry. Sad ending.

Debra Winger and Richard Gere in An Officer and a Gentleman, 1982.

4. “An Officer and a Gentleman,” 1982

Another opposites-attract movie has test pilot-in-training Richard Gere eventually falling for Debra Winger, a local Navy test pilot wife-wannabee who has her sites set on Gere. She thinks better of it and gives up, not realizing that Gere is falling for her. It’s a classic, old-style love story with a happy ending.

3. “The Way We Were,” 1973

Still another opposites-attract movie has Katie (Barbara Streisand), a wise-cracking political activist, squabbling with Hubbell (Robert Redford) over his WASP-y entitlement. They eventually attract and marry, but the film’s ending is ultimately inconclusive … possibly sad, possibly happy.

2. “The Sound of Music,” 1965

This one seems to be an opposites-attract move but not really. This sweeping musical classic, set in the dangerous times of Nazi Germany and occupied Austria and starring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer, features a slow-blooming attraction and love affair between the naïve good-hearted governess and the stern but ultimately also good-hearted master of the house. Happy ending.

1. “Ghost,” 1990

This emotional, love-triumphs-over-death story stars Patrick Swayze as a murdered banker who can’t leave this worldly realm until he bids farewell and ensures his loving but grieving wife, played sweetly by Demi Moore, that he is OK and ready to go. Have the tissues ready! Sad but ultimately happy ending.

Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze in Ghost, 1990.

CLASSICS IN A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN

The following four incandescent, timeless romantic movies occurred before 1960 and belong in a category of their own.

“The African Queen,” 1951

Perhaps the original opposites-attract movie, “The African Queen” stars Humphrey Bogart as a grizzled riverboat captain and Katheine Hepburn as the prim and proper missionary who slowly but surely fall in love while pursuing Germans in World War I. Happy ending.

“Casablanca,” 1942

This ageless Hollywood classic pairs Humprey Bogart (Rick) and Ingrid Bergman (Ilsa) as star-crossed lovers haunted by the past.

“Doctor Zhivago,” 1955

Set in Russia before World War I, this epic tale recounts Yuri’s (Omar Sharif) passionate love affair with Lara even though he’s married to Tonya, whom he also loves. Sad ending.

“Gone with the Wind,” 1939

This classic starring Clark Gable as Rhett Butler and Vivien Leigh as Scarlet O’Hara is filled with dramatic flair and a not-to-be-denied love even in the face of the horrors of the Civil War. Both are fierce, strong … and manipulative. Sad ending.

Ingrid Bergman and Humphrey Bogarrt in Casablanca, 1942.

Holy sexagenarian, Batman — we just turned 60!

By Gary Bennett

This article appears in the January 29, 2026 edition of Frederick News-Post’s “72 Hours” entertainment magazine.

Picture this: Crooks have just pilfered the largest diamond in the world from the Gotham City Museum of Fine Jewelry, leaving stunned watchmen and slips of paper with confounding riddles behind. Solve the riddles and you will find the fiends! Clearly outclassed — alas, there’s really no reason to even try — Police Commissioner Gordon and Chief of Police O’Hara look skyward and grimly activate the bat signal. A powerful beam of light depicting the majestic and unmistakable winged symbol of justice lights up the night sky. It is only a matter of time before the dashing, tricked-out Batmobile is screeching down the highway, depositing Batman and Robin at police HQ for a confab with the overmatched police professionals.

The “Batman” TV series, which ran for 120 episodes between 1966 and 1968, debuted 60 years ago on ABC this month. Nearly every episode began the way I described — an outrageous caper pulled off by an oddball villain, befuddled police, and the caped crusaders, duly notified, speeding to the rescue. It was a twice-weekly series, airing on two consecutive nights — Wednesday and Thursday — at 7:30 pm.

As a kid of the ‘60s, I can tell you there was nothing quite like it. I watched “Batman” in first run but, like Star Trek, reruns kicked in right away so it seemed like it was always on. Today, the original “Batman” series airs on MeTV on Saturdays and the entire 120-episode series is available on DVD at major retailers.

The first episode of the week always left the dynamic duo teetering on the verge of a harrowing death from the hands of an outrageous villain. Episode two featured their miraculous escape and the comeuppance of the villain. That was the formula — every time — and we loved it. Executive producer William Dozier, who doubled as the show’s overly-excited narrator, always implored us to return the next night at the “same bat time, same bat channel.”

“Batman” appealed to kids for the nonstop action, colorful villains and the heroic deeds of the “dynamin duo,” especially the comically stoic Adam West as Batman (“Thank you, citizen.”) It eventually appealed to adults, too, because of its sly humor, scientific basis (the bat cave was filled with technical wonders, including the first computer any of us had ever seen) and the witty, campy presentation. I vividly remember watching “Batman” with my dad, who chuckled at the exaggerated cliches, laid on thick.

It didn’t take long before the show became an unlikely hit and full-blown national phenomenon. Like “Hogan’s Heroes” and several other escapist comedies before it, like “Bewitched,” “I Dream of Jeannie,” “The Munsters” and “The Addams Family,” it came along at just the right time, providing a twice-weekly break for our war-weary and strife-riddled country in the mid ‘60s.

Based on the comic book by Bob Kane and Bill Finger and the old Batman radio show, “Batman” was the first depiction of the “caped crusaders” on screen. It led to an animated series and the ultra-successful “Batman” movie franchise we know today.

“Batman” starred Hollywood veteran Adam West as Batman and 19-year-old Burt Ward as Robin, the Boy Wonder. The regular cast was rounded out by Neil Hamilton as deadpan Commissioner Gordon, Stafford Repp as good-humored Chief O’Hara, and Alan Napier as Alfred, the trusted butler to both Batman and Bruce Wayne. Chief writer Lorenzo Semple won a critic’s choice award for his writing on “Batman,” and the show won several Emmys during its run, mostly for technical achievement.

Adam West was a handsome, adequately-built and believable action hero in the mold of George Reeves as Superman. He played Batman as humble, corny, dead pan and not too self-aware. Later in life, West let on how difficult it was to play Batman that way, but he embraced it. Like many actors indelibly linked to their character, West was type cast as Batman and had difficulty landing other roles. In retirement, he enjoyed hamming it up at conventions and personal appearances for adoring fans. Today, viewers may know him as the voice of Quahog mayor Adam West in Family Guy. West died in 2017 at age 88.

Newcomer Burt Ward brought a pinch of innocence, earnestness and awkwardness to the series as Robin. Many times, Batman had to rescue him from dire circumstances that anyone else could clearly see coming. His excitable and ever-changing catchphrase beginning with “holy” and ending with a description of the predicament they faced (“Holy hot candle wax, Batman!) were on the lips of adolescents everywhere. Ward is now 81 years old and living in Los Angeles.

“Batman” worked well because it didn’t take itself too seriously, staying faithful to its comic book roots. It specialized in highly choreographed fight sequences, complete with sound effects superimposed on the screen (“POW,” “BAM,” “SPLAT,” “CLANK,” “KAPOW”), a pulsating one-word theme song (“na na na na na na na na, Batman!”) and, most ridiculous of all, absurdly intricate death scenes that never quite finished off the caped crusaders.

Naturally, villains could never bring themselves to just shoot Batman and Robin, even when they had the chance. They had to devise over-the-top death sequences befitting their diabolical reputations. Most times, they were not even in attendance for the dirty deed.

My favorite almost-death scene saw the dynamic duo placed into a giant Frosty Freezie machine by the despicable Mr. Freeze, almost turning them into fruity popsicles. Fortunately, Batman realizes the heat exhaust from the machine could melt them out. Using a handy gadget from his utility belt, which the villains always left in place, he was able to turn the exhaust onto Robin and himself for easy melting.

Kids of the ’60 waited with bated breath each week to see which villain would show up. That was a big part of the fun. Hollywood’s biggest names clamored to make a “guest villain” appearance. It got so bad by season three that the caped crusaders had to battle two or three dastardly villains who teamed up to do away with the “caped creeps” once and for all. The list included the big four: a cackling Cesar Romero as Joker, wiry Frank Gorshin as Riddler, waddling and quacking Burgess Meredith (of Rocky fame) as Penguin and sexy Julie Newmar and later Ertha Kitt as Catwoman (Perrrrrrrfect casting!). When any one of those stalwarts turned up, you knew the caped crusaders were really in for it.

Other villains included Milton Berle as Louie the Lilac, Ethel Merman as Lola Lasagne, David Wayne as Mad Hatter, Vincent Price as Egghead, Victor Buono as King Tut, Maurice Evans as Puzzler, Cliff Robertson as Shame (a takeoff on the cowboy character Shane), Dina Merrill as Calamity Jan, Art Carney as Archer and even famed film director Otto Preminger as the mysterious Mr. Freeze.

Near the end of the third season, ratings began to drop as the premise wore off. ABC canceled the show, but NBC agreed to pick it up. But before it could, hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of Batman sets were mistakenly destroyed. Rather than rebuild the sets, NBC dropped the project. It took 20 years, but the bat rose again, this time in the form of an ultra-successful major motion picture starring Michael Keaton as Batman and Jack Nicholson as the Joker. Numerous movies later, it is still going strong.

In awe of the humble strip mall — and my top 5 Frederick picks

by Gary Bennett

Prospect Plaza at S. Jefferson Street and Route 15.

This article appears in the January 15, 2026 issue of Frederick News-Post’s “72 Hours” entertainment magazine.

Nearly every neighborhood of any size has one: the humble strip mall. Short on ambience but long on usefulness, these unassuming clusters of storefronts are the quiet workhorses of American convenience.

In my retirement job as a pharmacy delivery driver, I spend my days moving through Frederick and taking in the city as it really is. Some sights are charming. Others, like utilitarian strip centers, less so. Still, when you need a six-pack, dry cleaning, a missing dinner ingredient or a quick taco, the strip mall reveals its true beauty.

So what exactly is a “strip shopping center”? As the name suggests, it is a row of stores arranged in a straight line or a simple L or U shape, usually with parking out front and serving a nearby neighborhood. According to Property Manager Insider, what these centers lack in atmosphere they make up for in convenience. Shoppers value the ease. Investors value the returns. Small business owners value the lower barrier to entry.

Strip malls are distinct from full shopping centers, indoor malls and commercial districts, which serve larger trade areas and feature more stores and infrastructure. Frederick has all four. Westview Promenade and the Seventh Street Shopping Center are examples of full shopping centers. The FSK Mall is now the city’s only indoor mall. The Golden Mile functions as a commercial district, as do the Route 26 shopping centers, which are quickly evolving in the same direction.

Indoor malls, once dominant, have steadily fallen out of favor over the past two decades. Meanwhile, outdoor shopping centers such as Riverview Plaza, Frederick Crossing and Market Square are outperforming them. More surprising still, Retail Insider reports that strip shopping centers are seeing stronger year-over-year sales growth than even larger shopping centers nationwide, driven by a preference for local businesses and the enduring appeal of convenience. Their lower construction costs only add to their resilience.

Frederick, one of Maryland’s fastest-growing municipalities, has no shortage of strip centers. Most residents live within a short walk or drive of one they rely on regularly. These centers tend to house businesses essential to daily life, from national chains like 7-11 and Dollar General to small independent shops. Typical tenants include grocery and convenience stores, restaurants, service providers such as salons and dry cleaners, specialty retail and practical businesses like banks, pharmacies and tax services.

For me, a truly great strip mall covers most everyday needs in one stop. Ideally, that means a small grocery, a few fast-casual food options, basic personal services, a place to indulge occasionally and something to offset the indulgence. I have yet to find one local center that includes everything, but some come close.

Below are my top five standalone strip shopping centers in and around Frederick. These are places I consider livable, meaning all basic needs are met within a short walk. A strong strip mall saves time and, surprisingly often, improves quality of life.

Ballenger Creek Plaza at Ballenger Creek Pike and Crestwood Boulevard.

5. Eastgate Shopping Center

East Patrick Street and Monocacy Boulevard

An L-shaped center with a standout donut shop, liquor store and several fast-casual options including Roy Rogers and JR’s Pizza. Belles combines a bar, pool hall and deli, while a well-stocked pet store rounds out the mix.

4. Thomas Johnson Center

Oppossumtown Pike and Thomas Johnson Drive

Anchored by Weis, this long strip center features an eclectic lineup of outparcel shops including a dry cleaner, spa, liquor store and multiple fast-casual restaurants. Zipani gives the center a distinct personality.

3. Ballenger Creek Plaza

Ballenger Creek Pike and Crestwood Boulevard

Anchored by Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park, this compact center includes a barber shop, nail salon, daycare, dollar store, liquor store, tax prep office and several pizza and sub shops. Urban Air makes it a destination, especially for families.

2. Walnut Ridge Center

Rosemont Avenue across from Fort Detrick

Anchored by Food Lion, this long strip center offers broad appeal with subs, pizza, Mexican, Chinese and ramen restaurants, plus a barber shop, nail salon, dry cleaner, Edible Arrangements and a travel agent. Dunkin’ and Starbucks in the parking lot seal the deal.

1. Prospect Plaza

Jefferson Street at Route 15

Serving several nearby neighborhoods, Prospect Plaza earns the top spot with unmatched retail density. Two adjacent dollar stores and a Gabe’s provide serious browsing power, while food options range from Pizza Hut and McDonald’s to Habanero’s Tacos and Chef Lin Buffet. Service offerings include salons, a liquor store, auto parts shop, dry cleaner and even a veterinarian. If I ever had to set up camp near a strip center, this would be it.

Affordable Housing in Frederick County: What it is, What’s Coming, and Why it Matters – 1/8/26

By Gary Bennett and Mary Ellen Mitchell

This article is the featured January 2026 blog post for the Affordable Housing Council of Frederick, Maryland.

Affordable housing is a topic that touches nearly every corner of our community, yet it’s often misunderstood. Before looking ahead to what’s coming in Frederick County, it helps to clearly understand what affordable housing is—and what it is not—and why it plays such a critical role in our local economy and quality of life.

What Affordable Housing Is—and Isn’t

Affordable housing is frequently confused with public housing or housing reserved only for people with very low incomes. Those options represent just one small segment of the broader affordable housing landscape. Affordable housing serves people across a wide range of incomes, especially working households who are essential to keeping Frederick County vibrant and functional.

Housing is generally considered affordable when a household spends no more than 30 percent of its gross income on housing costs. When housing expenses exceed that threshold, families become “cost-burdened,” leaving less room in their budgets for food, transportation, healthcare, childcare, and savings.

One group most impacted by the housing shortage is often referred to as the “missing middle.” These are teachers, healthcare workers, restaurant staff, first responders, retail workers, and others whose incomes are too high to qualify for many assistance programs but too low to comfortably afford today’s housing prices. As home prices, rents, and interest rates rise, these workers are increasingly priced out of the communities where they work.

So why don’t we just build more modestly priced homes?

The answer is complicated. Land costs have risen dramatically, construction labor and materials are more expensive, and regulatory requirements continue to add to development costs. Zoning policies that favor single-family homes over townhomes, apartments, and smaller units further limit housing choices. Without some form of public-private partnership, it’s extremely difficult to for developers to produce homes at a reasonable profit that working households can realistically afford.

How Communities Increase Affordable Housing

There are two primary approaches to addressing housing shortages.

One approach relies entirely on the private market, assuming high prices will eventually cool demand and bring costs down. While this theory works in some sectors of the economy, housing markets can take years—or decades—to rebalance, leaving families struggling in the meantime.

The second approach uses a combination of policies, incentives, and partnerships to encourage the creation of more attainable housing more quickly. Frederick County and the City of Frederick have largely embraced this strategy.

Some of the most effective tools include:

Moderately Priced Dwelling Unit (MPDU) policies, which require a portion of homes in new developments to be offered at more attainable price points or allow developers to contribute fees that support affordable housing elsewhere.
Fee waivers, such as reduced or eliminated impact fees for developments that include affordable units.
Public land partnerships, where county- or city-owned land is used to lower development costs.
More efficient review processes, helping bring housing to market faster and with greater cost predictability.
Expanded housing types, including accessory dwelling units (ADUs), adaptive reuse of underutilized buildings, co-living options, and manufactured housing.

Together, these tools help create a broader range of housing choices that reflect the needs of today’s households.

Why Affordable Housing Strengthens Our Community

Access to stable, affordable housing benefits everyone—not just the households who live in it.

Research consistently shows that housing stability is one of the most powerful predictors of long-term success. A major multi-year study from Stanford University found that children who grow up in stable, affordable homes perform better academically and have improved economic outcomes as adults. Children who moved to lower-poverty neighborhoods experienced increased earnings later in life and were more likely to invest in their communities.

When affordable housing is scarce, the impacts ripple outward. Families are forced to live farther from work, increasing traffic and transportation costs. Employers struggle to attract and retain workers. Communities lose young adults who want to stay but can’t find housing they can afford, and older residents have fewer options to downsize while remaining nearby.

In contrast, a healthy supply of affordable housing supports workforce stability, economic growth, environmental sustainability, and stronger neighborhoods.

What’s Available Today

While challenges remain, Frederick County and the City of Frederick have made meaningful progress in expanding affordable housing options for renters and homebuyers.

Within the City of Frederick, several communities offer income-restricted or moderately priced rental opportunities, including Foundry Square downtown, Catoctin View and Manor on Motter Avenue for seniors, Sharpe Square on Motter, Ox Fibre Apartments on East Church Street, and Crestwood Apartments on New Design Road. These communities help provide housing options near employment centers, schools, and services.

Outside the city, Railroad Square Apartments in Brunswick and Orchard Park at Ballenger Run offer other affordable rental options, contributing to housing choice along key transportation corridors and serving residents who want to remain connected to Frederick County while living in a smaller community.

Habitat for Humanity also plays a key role by creating affordable homeownership opportunities through condominiums and townhomes that use land trusts to help keep prices attainable over time.

In addition, many new townhome and apartment communities—while not income-restricted—like Gambrill Glen, Preserve at Tuscarora, and Upper East Apartments help relieve pressure on the overall housing market by increasing supply. When more housing is available at different price points, competition eases and affordability improves across the board.

Crestwood Manor on New Design Road in Frederick

How Affordable Rental Housing Is Financed: A Brief Look at LIHTC

One of the most important tools for creating affordable rental housing nationwide is the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC, pronounced “Li-tech”) program. Established by Congress in 1986, LIHTC allows private investors to receive federal tax credits in exchange for financing affordable rental homes. These credits reduce the cost of development, making it possible to offer rents that are lower than market rates while still covering operating expenses.

In Frederick County, LIHTC has helped support numerous affordable rental communities over the past several decades as we noted above. Through the work of the County’s Division of Housing, Frederick has successfully attracted these investments, resulting in hundreds of affordable homes for seniors, families, and individuals. This steady use of tax credits has been essential in maintaining a diverse housing stock as market rents continue to rise.

Still, innovative approaches to affordable housing have never been more critical given the reduction in federal assistance and the fact that the very competitive nature of LIHTC can result in no or fewer projects being funded in the County for any given year. Co-living (rental housing) projects can provide housing opportunities at a less per-unit construction cost than other types of projects, generally requiring less public construction subsidies. Rental subsidies, via vouchers, are eligible for such housing that can range in price from $500 per month to $1,200 per month. This affordable option should be considered in the County, especially if funds are available that were dedicated to other planned projects that did not receive tax credits.

Artist’s rendering of the under construction Terrace affordable homes in Frederick.

What’s Under Construction and What’s Ahead

Looking forward, Frederick County and the City of Frederick continue to plan for growth in ways that support housing diversity and smart land use. Most new residential communities are located near existing infrastructure, employment centers, or transit corridors.

According to the City of Frederick’s development pipeline, nearly 14,000 housing units are planned or underway over the coming years. These range from small infill developments to large mixed-use neighborhoods such as Bloomfields, Brickworks, Renn Quarter, and Worman’s Mill Court Apartments. While not all these homes will meet formal affordability definitions, they will significantly expand the housing supply and help ease the ongoing imbalance between demand and availability.

Additional city and county developments—including Frederick Health Village, Simmers property in Thurmont, Summers Farm, The Terrace, and Lucas Village—will add a mix of housing types that serve different household sizes, life stages, and budgets.

Notably, the County’s new Prospect Center campus at the Old State Farm building on Himes Avenue is slated to be mostly affordable units. 150 units are planned. Both the City and County are actively considering public land for affordable housing.

Finally, the County’s Housing Needs Assessment study, which is in its final stages, will provide concrete data on the current housing gap and projected housing demand for both the County and City, and help to set a strategic direction for affordable housing policy.

Where to Learn More and Take Next Steps

For anyone searching for affordable housing, reliable information is key. Start with local housing agencies and nonprofit organizations, and follow up directly with property management offices to learn about availability and application timelines.

Helpful resources include:

Housing Authority of the City of Frederick
City of Frederick Department of Housing and Human Services
Frederick County Division of Housing
Habitat for Humanity of Frederick County

Visiting individual community websites and joining interest or waiting lists early can also improve your chances of finding a suitable home.

A Shared Responsibility

Affordable housing is not a single solution or a one-time effort—it’s an ongoing commitment. When we invest in housing that meets the needs of working families, seniors, and future generations, we strengthen Frederick County as a whole. Thoughtful planning, strong partnerships, and informed community conversations will continue to shape a county where people can live, work, and thrive—together.

Art of the boy’s weekend

by Gary Bennett
Special to the News-Post

Jim, Gary and Randy enjoy a dip in the Gulf of Mexico at Siesta Key Beach, June 2024. Water temp: 84 degrees.

This article appears in the January 8, 2025 issue of Frederick News-Post’s “72 Hours” entertainment magazine.

Let’s say you’d like to put together a boy’s weekend. You’ve got the boys (sort of), an understanding partner (sure you do), and the time and money (pretty much) to pull it off. What else do you need? Plenty, I say.

As a devotee and primary organizer of an annual boy’s weekend, I can tell you that a lot can go wrong — unless you plan carefully.

Before we get started, you may be wondering: why not just take your wife or girlfriend on a nice trip? My friend, if you’re asking this question, then a boy’s weekend may not be for you. The point is to take time away from your dearly beloved to enjoy some manly pursuits — without worrying about boring her or boring yourself by doing things she wants to do. The focus should be on strengthening friendships with your guy pals through shared experiences. Along the way, you’ll create lasting memories that contribute to personal growth and make you a more well-rounded person.

And don’t downplay the cost savings of just one of you going on a trip. That may sound obvious, but if you’re the type of person who gets genuine pleasure from seeing someone else have fun, then you know exactly what I mean.

SELLING THE IDEA

The first thing you must do is get buy-in. If this idea comes out of the blue to your wife, girlfriend or partner, you’ll face an uphill battle — especially if you’re planning to go somewhere she has never been.

I was smart enough to insist my wife visit her sister in Florida right after the holidays — without me. “Yes,” I said, “you can enjoy undivided time with her without worrying about me.” A few years later, I even OK’d a trip to Europe for my wife and a girlfriend who had never been. I know — brilliant, right? Now I can plan my boy’s trips with impunity.

Jim, Gary and Randy enjoys the O’s vs. Tampa Bay Rays in June 2024.

PLANNING THE TRIP

It’s never too soon to begin planning your guy trip. These days, even retired guys have busy schedules, so I recommend giving yourself at least six months of lead time. You’ll often need that much time to secure good deals on transportation, accommodations and entertainment.

First, decide who to invite. I recommend keeping the group small — no more than four — and inviting close friends only. It may be tempting to invite that new guy you’re kind of smitten with, but resist the urge. You’ll be setting yourself up for failure. You not only need close friends on the trip, but the kind you’d be comfortable traveling and sleeping in the same room with. That’s harder than it sounds. Longtime friends who have known you at your worst — preferably since those awkward teenage years — are ideal. (This is an excellent reason to maintain friendships with high school and college chums.)

Another good tip is to choose friends your wife knows — and it’s even better if she knows their wives. This isn’t to say she’ll disapprove of people she doesn’t know, but why take a chance?

It also helps if everyone involved is a longtime, happily married husband. You never want to invite a friend who has recently married, divorced, or whose marriage is on shaky ground. (Believe me, everyone knows.) And this probably goes without saying, but you can never — I repeat, never — invite a single friend on a boy’s trip with married friends. That’s an unforced error and a recipe for disaster.

WHERE TO GO

Next, you’ll need to decide where to go and what to do. These two decisions go hand in hand. You wouldn’t head to the mountains if everyone loves the beach, but you’ll need to refine your thinking even further. Choose your destination wisely. Nothing says “boy’s holiday” like the right balance of adrenaline-fueled activities and downtime.

Plan collaboratively. Talk with your friends to find an approach everyone agrees on regarding budget and activities. Don’t over-schedule. Balance planned events with downtime, and leave room for spontaneity — some of the best moments come from it.

To drive or to fly? That depends largely on your destination and how much time you have. From the Frederick area, places like New York, New England, Florida, and even New Orleans could go either way. Choose carefully. Turning your boy’s getaway into a car trip introduces additional challenges: who drives and for how long, when to stop, where to eat, and whether the car ride is for music or conversation. My preference is to go far enough that flying is the only option. Flying offers the best combination of shared experience and personal space — and it can be just as cost-effective as driving.

Next, decide on accommodations. One big advantage of a boy’s weekend is the ability to rent a large suite — one you normally couldn’t afford — and split the cost three or four ways. But this needs to be discussed upfront. How many rooms will you need? Some friends may prefer their own modest room, while others are fine sharing. If three of you go, a large suite may be perfect. If four, two rooms might make more sense. Budget and comfort levels matter here, so don’t gloss over this decision.

Jim, Gary and Randy at Area 51 just north of Las Vegas, November 2025.

WHAT TO DO

Now comes the fun part: deciding on activities. For a three- or four-day weekend, I recommend scheduling at least two structured activities. The best guy trips strike a balance between high-energy experiences and time to relax. Naturally, whatever you choose must appeal to everyone so no one feels left out.

Classic boys’ weekend ideas include outdoor adventures like camping, hiking, fishing, rafting, or golf; attending a live sporting event or concert; or exploring a city with a focus on food, drink, nightlife, or gaming. Most of my boy’s weekends have centered around sporting events and concerts. Add some beach or pool time, good meals, and maybe a short bus or river tour, and you’ve got all the ingredients for a great getaway.

OTHER SENSIBILITIES TO WATCH OUT FOR

Be mindful of sleeping and bathroom arrangements. You don’t live with these guys, so you may not know their habits. Some shower at night, others in the morning. Some wake early; others sleep in. Some eat breakfast; some don’t. These details matter — talk about them ahead of time.

You probably already know which friends are easygoing and which are a bit more uptight. Some prefer a regimented schedule; others thrive on spontaneity. Be aware of these quirks, try to accommodate them when possible, and focus on the fun. After all, you’ll be back home before you know it.

Gary, Jim and Randy getting ready for an Eagles concert at the amazing Sphere in Las Vegas, November 2025.

MY WEEKEND TRIPS

I didn’t start organizing boy’s weekends until I retired a few years ago, but they’ve since become an annual rite of passage. We’re not golfers or thrill-seekers, but we know what we like. True to my own advice, we plan just a few activities and leave plenty of room to relax and be spontaneous.

To date, my two (and sometimes three) pals and I have taken these boy’s weekends over three or four days, and we’ve always had a great time:

2020 — Detroit: Two Orioles baseball games and a river walk.

2021 — Arlington, Texas: Two Orioles baseball games and a Texas Hill County tour.

2022 — New Orleans: Paul McCartney concert, Bourbon Street bar hopping and a bus tour.

2023 — Denver: Pittsburgh Pirates baseball game and a Red Rocks concert.

2024 — Tampa: Two Orioles baseball games and a Siesta Key Beach outing.

2025 — Las Vegas: Eagles concert at the Sphere, Area 51 tour, light gambling.

Joe Theismann will talk in Frederick about how to set and reach goals

By Gary Bennett
Special to the News-Post

This article appears in the January 8, 2026 issue of Frederick News-Post’s “72 Hours” entertainment magazine.

Legendary NFL quarterback Joe Theismann will share his incredible journey from 1982 NFL MVP and 1983 Super Bowl champion to media personality, businessman and motivational speaker at 8 p.m. Jan. 10 at the Weinberg Center for the Arts in Frederick. An Evening with Joe Theismann is part of the Weinberg Center’s Live Series, celebrating iconic speakers and resilient stories.

Joe Theismann is an iconic Washington sports figure, best known for his long NFL career spent entirely with the Washington Redskins, after a short stint in the Canadian Football League. He played with Redskin greats like the “over-the-hill-gang,” “hogs,” “fun bunch” and “Riggo.” He led the Redskins to victory in Super Bowl XVII in January 1983 over the Miami Dolphins but unfortunately suffered a gruesome on-field injury that ended his football career abruptly in 1985.

His football journey was unique and star-crossed, to say the least.

A college football Hall of Famer, Theismann starred for three years as quarterback for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. He was not only a football all-American and Heisman Trophy runner up in 1971 but was also an academic all-American, loquacious and witty and with movie star good looks. The Notre Dame sports information department was so eager for him to win the Heisman in 1971 that they informed him they would change the pronunciation of his name to rhyme with Heisman (with a long i sound). At the time, there was not a more glamorous or well-known player in college football.

Thought too small to play quarterback in the NFL, Theismann was drafted into the Canadian Football League in 1971. He spent three standout years with Toronto Argonauts, lauded for his daring and effective quarterback play. In 1974 he was acquired by the Washington Redskins as a backup quarterback and punt returner. The latter was a job unheard-of for any quarterback before or since. Known as a fierce competitor, Theismann willingly took the job just to get onto the field. In 1978, he finally assumed the starting quarterback position, supplanting another Redskin favorite, Billy Kilmer.

In November 1985, shortly after his MVP and Super Bowl winning years, Theismann suffered a devastatingly severe compound fracture of his tibia and fibula when sacked by Lawrence Taylor of the New York Giants on Monday Night Football in front of millions of viewers. The 36-year-old Theismann was wstill in his prime for an NFL quarterback, but unfortunately, the injury ended his career on the spot. The image of Taylor frantically waving for help while a prone Theismann lay unable to move and in clear agony is one of the most enduring and wrenching images the NFL has to offer.

Unable to play again, Theismann retired and embarked on a successful broadcasting career. In 1986 and 1987, he served as color commentator on NFL games for CBS. In 1988 he became the longtime lead analyst for Sunday Night Football, a job he kept through 2005. He joined the Monday Night Football TV crew for one year in 2006. Since then, he has appeared consistently on the NFL Network and covered Thursday Night Football. In 1994 he won a CableACE Award (an Emmy equivalent) for insightful NFL commentary.

Today, he appears across various media, co-hosting Playbook, a weekly show on the Washington Commanders network; on podcasts such as 2nd City Gridiron and the Ruffino and Joe Show; in the movies, usually playing himself in such fare as Cannonball Run II; and in the theater with his live show, An Evening with Joe Theismann. His NFL Films documentary, Joe Theismann: A Football Life airs periodically on the NFL Network. He has written books, including his latest, How to be a Champion Every Day, and leads various business ventures including Theismann’s, his restaurant in Alexandria, that has been in operation since 1975.

As a motivational speaker, Theismann is in high demand by organizations such as Gaylord Hotel, ADM Investor Services, SHOPCO Stores, Prosperity Life, University of Phoenix and the Restaurant Association of Maryland. Theismann often speaks on the relationship between business, sports, and our personal lives, and how they parallel one another. He shares lessons on leadership, overcoming adversity and mental toughness, which he now brings to his live shows.

At the Weinberg Center, Theismann will speak for about 60 to 75 minutes about his football life and how to set and reach your goals and motivate those around you. After his talk, he will entertain questions from the audience. Tickets are available at weinbergcenter.org.

Gary Bennett is a longtime Frederick resident who spends his time hiking, biking, volunteering and providing childcare for grandchildren. He is married and retired from his career as a nonprofit marketing executive.

(Don’t) party like it’s 1999: My most memorable News Year’s Eve

By Gary Bennett

This article appears in the December 31, 2025 issue of Frederick News Post’s “72 Hours” entertainment insert.

Looking back, New Year’s Eve 1999 was momentous on several fronts. It was the end of the year, decade, century and even the millennium, but few remember it could have been the end of civilization as we knew it.

I am overstating that last item, of course, but fears were rampant because of a little thing called the Y2K computer bug.

The shorthand form of the year 2000 (Y2K) became synonymous with impending doom. It referred to possible failures to computer systems because years (back in those days) were denoted as two-digit numbers instead of four. Therefore, no one could be sure how computers would react to the rollover from 99 to 00. Some believed computers would think it was 1900 instead of 2000, making any calculations that relied on time, like interest payments on savings or Social Security payments, to fail.

As incredible as it sounds now, this glitch was simply due to pure cost savings and an amazing lack of foresight. Early in the computer age, which dates from the 1940s, data storage was extremely expensive and programmers compensated by taking shortcuts wherever possible. One easy shortcut was to denote years as a two-digit number instead of four. No one worried about the year 2000 because it was so far away, and it wasn’t at all clear this new technology would catch on.

At the turn of the century, I was working for the Bureau of National Affairs, Inc. (BNA) in Washington, D.C. It was a large publishing company that specialized in reporting on legislative and regulatory news coming out of the federal government. It is now part of Bloomberg. BNA reported extensively on governmental efforts to stem this coming catastrophe. We even had a publication called the Y2K Reporter.

During the late 1990s, the federal government finally recognized the problems this computer glitch could cause and they went to work in a bipartisan fashion to fix the problems unimaginable today. By some estimates, the federal government spent upwards of $600 billion to remedy the 2-digit year glitch.

I was not a reporter or a computer programmer at BNA but a communications-type person. Nevertheless, I was on high alert New Year’s Eve, ready to make my way to the office in D.C. if the unimaginable happened. And believe me, doomsday scenarios were running wild: Jets would fall from the sky at midnight, the power grid would fail, and people would not be able to withdraw funds from banks were a few of the wildest.

Luckily, nothing much happened. There was some minor glitches to nonessential government programs but no widespread systems failures like some predicted. Our Y2K Reporter folded up the following year, and New Year’s Eve the following year was much more pleasant.

So, on Dec. 31, 1999, I was not ready to “party like it was 1999,” as Prince suggested, but was suffering from high anxiety like millions of other Americans and looking askance at my big, old desktop computer.