Page 3 – OUT40

Album Review: Stitch Early’s GET ME THE BETA #westend

Stitch Early’s latest release, GET ME THE BETA is an archive of unreleased tracks spanning the last five years. The intro begins with an array of voices exuding varying tonetic emotions saying, “Get me the beta;” they then are unanimously silenced by a cassette tape being inserted into a player. Named for its raw,…

ByOUT40July 9, 20250Comments

Street Talk

Frederick Pride 2025 Brings Unity in Record Crowds to Carroll Creek

Did you know the Frederick Pride is the second largest pride celebration in the state? Frederick Pride lit up Carroll Creek Park this past weekend, drawing thousands of joyous community members to Downtown Frederick for its most vibrant celebration yet. Kicking off with the inaugural parade on Friday evening—featuring colorful floats, spirited performers, and a…

ByOUT40July 7, 20250Comments

WATCH: OUT40 Premieres “Let America Be America Again” for Juneteenth 2025

On Juneteenth 2025, OUT40 premieres a powerful rendition of Langston Hughes’s “Let America Be America Again,” a collective reading that echoes the enduring call for justice, equity, and true freedom in America. Filmed by Marie Rose Photography and Videography (@marieroseshoots), the piece features a moving group recitation that brings Hughes’s words into sharp, urgent focus for…

ByOUT40June 19, 20250Comments

Street Talk

Juneteenth Isn’t Just a Day Off: What It Means for Us Locally

Here in America, there are many various holidays that we commemorate and celebrate. These federal holidays mean a lot to us; they make us proud. These are the holidays we read about in textbooks, especially Independence Day which occurred on July 4th, 1776, when the American colonies declared freedom from Great Britain’s rule. However there…

ByMikaela PollardJune 19, 20250Comments

Street Talk

Maryland Ensemble Theatre’s Clyde’s Dares to Dream

Maryland Ensemble Theatre’s latest production, Clyde’s, is an exploration of second chances, survival, and the personal journey of daring to dream. At the center of the story is Clyde, played with ferocity and depth by MET Ensemble member Rona Mensah. A formerly incarcerated woman now running a truck stop sandwich shop, Clyde hires others…

ByOUT40June 4, 20250Comments

Poet's Corner

Poets Corner: Lanai Monroe’s “Wild Flower” Blossoms with Elemental Grace

Shot by Marie Rose Photography & Videography In Poets Corner, OUT40 spotlights Frederick-based poet Lanai Monroe, whose ethereal poem, “Wild Flower,” is a celebration of feminine resilience, nature, and spiritual alignment. Monroe’s words paint an image of a woman in constant communion with the elements—raised by the sun, grounded in soil, and lulled to rest by the moon.…

ByOUT40May 30, 20250Comments

Street Talk

Flava Runs Deep: Jalapeño & Honey’s Exclusive Private Tasting at HCC Culinary Incubator

Last Friday evening, the kitchen at the Hagerstown Community College Culinary Incubator was alive with bold spices, soulful music, and community love as Jalapeño & Honey hosted an exclusive private tasting to celebrate their growing food venture, one that’s as rich in flavor as it is in heritage. The intimate event welcomed longtime supporters, tastemakers, friends, and…

ByOUT40May 29, 20250Comments

Street Talk

El Afrik Brings Bold West African Flavor and Late-Night Vibes

El Afrik has officially opened its doors and it’s already becoming a go-to spot for late-night flavor and vibes. This Nigerian-Ghanaian fusion restaurant blends rich West African culinary traditions with a modern twist, and its weekend nights are lit—literally. With the kitchen open until 1 AM, El Afrik offers a lively atmosphere perfect for winding…

ByOUT40May 25, 20250Comments

Street Talk

African Restaurant Week In Frederick, Maryland

Come and support African Restaurant Week in Frederick Maryland! African Restaurant Week is a celebration of African and African-American culture and cuisine. This event will support African or African-American chefs, restaurants, and small businesses right here in Frederick. African Restaurant Week (LLC) is a community based organization devoted to promoting the most distinguished African cuisine and culture. In addition to supporting restaurants, African…

ByMikaela PollardMay 16, 20250Comments