Arts & Entertainment

Marylander Wins Oscar For 'Encanto' + Cherry Blossom Display Opens: MD Good News

A Marylander won an Oscar for "Encanto," an animated Disney movie. Plus, a cherry blossom-themed display opened. Here's the good news.

From the left, Bryon Howard, Clark Spencer, Yvett Merino and Jared Bush smile after winning an Academy Award on Sunday for their work on "Encanto." Bush is from Gaithersburg. This local Oscar win was one of the top Maryland stories of the week.
From the left, Bryon Howard, Clark Spencer, Yvett Merino and Jared Bush smile after winning an Academy Award on Sunday for their work on "Encanto." Bush is from Gaithersburg. This local Oscar win was one of the top Maryland stories of the week. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP)

MARYLAND — Plenty of stories made Patch readers smile this week, so let's dive right in.

A Marylander won an Academy Award for his work on "Encanto," an animated Disney movie about a Colombian family.

Residents also have spring fever. As the cherry blossoms bloom, MGM National Harbor opened a spring-themed display with impressive effects.

Find out what's happening in Dundalkfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Maryland celebrated additional honors this week. Foodies cheered on the state's top restaurants and chefs. Seven Maryland hospitals earned similar nods, making the list of America's best medical facilities.

Locals also admired the state's history in Annapolis. The Maryland State House commemorated its 250th anniversary, and a new colonial museum exhibit held its grand opening.

Find out what's happening in Dundalkfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

From yesteryear to modern-day, a new Latin American restaurant is now in business. Marylanders can also enjoy a chicken wing festival this weekend.

Here's the good news.

'Animated Film' Oscar Goes To Gaithersburg Native For 'Encanto'

Jared Bush, a writer and director for Best Animated Film "Encanto," is from Gaithersburg. Mayor Jud Ashman congratulated him on his win.

Cherry Blossom-Themed Spring Display Now At MGM National Harbor

Stop by the MGM National Harbor Conservatory to see the new cherry blossom-themed spring display with gigantic special effects.

Best Restaurant, Chef, Bar In Maryland: 2022 Winners

Maryland's favorite restaurants honored at the 2022 Stars of the Industry Awards include Aida Bistro, Jimmy's Famous Seafood and more.

Anne Arundel Medical Center Ranked Among Best Hospitals In U.S.

The Anne Arundel Medical Center was ranked among the 100 best hospitals in the United States. Six other Maryland hospitals made the top 400.

Maryland State House Celebrates 250th Birthday In Annapolis

The Maryland State House turned 250 on Monday. The building, which has hosted icons like George Washington, is eyeing a restoration project.

Museum Of Historic Annapolis Hosts Grand Opening For New Exhibit

A new museum exhibit held its grand opening in Annapolis. The display showcases more than 400 years of history in Maryland's state capital.

'Kumbia' Now Open In Rockville Town Square, Serving Latin Food

Latin American eatery Kumbia held its grand opening on March 19. It serves food from Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Brazil and Ecuador.

Chicken Wing Festival Coming To Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds

A chicken wing festival is coming to Anne Arundel County this weekend. After chowing down, guests can throw axes or ride a mechanical bull.


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