Frederick, MD July 2023

Scenes of SUMMER

A stronger community, a healthier you. Complete care, right here.

Since 1902, we’ve been honored to provide a higher level of care to the friends and neighbors that make up our community.

Learn more | frederickhealth.org

on how Cash Rewards can be paid out. Cash Rewards are available in most states; however, are void where prohibited by law or by the lender. Please consult with your lender for details that may affect you. $5 minimum balance required to open and earn 2.04% APY (Annual Percentage Yield) on LFCU Checking Account balances up to $25,000 and 0.025% APY on Checking Account balances over $25,000. Please visit LFCU.ORG/2FOR22 for full Checking Account requirements. Rates current as of May 1, 2023 and subject to change without notice. Your savings are federally insured up to $250,00 by NCUA. LFCU NMLS #464425

Serving Frederick, MD and surrounding areas

Office 240-292-5584

Cell: 202-603-7248

lgrabowski@lfcu.org

“My focus is providing you with exceptional service from start to finish.”

“I have been a proud member of LFCU for 7 years. Laura Grabowski has been fantastic and has worked with me and others to ensure a successful outcome.”

Duncan W., Lafayette Federal

MILESTONE & OCCASIONS

BRANDING & CORPORATE EVENTS

BOUDOIR & SELF LOVE PORTRAITS

ALEX EDWARDS, OWNER

MARIEROSESHOOTS.COM

The Summer Edition

Summer is here! As the days grow longer and the weather gets warmer, I find myself filled with giddy feelings of all this season holds. There’s a charm to this time of year that makes life feel a little lighter. Maybe it’s the abundance of fun or the anticipation of family vacation. It could be the actual impact of more Vitamin D that boosts energy and wellbeing. Whatever it is, Summer, don’t stop what you’re doing. We love it.

We have a fun concoction of stories and inspiring ideas to help you make the most of the season. We’ve kept all our readers in mind knowing some are looking for outdoor adventure and others are seeking a quiet space to enjoy the beauty of nature. Fun and fancy finger foods, creative cocktails, flourishing flowers, community co-ops, outdoor oases and more fill the pages ahead. (Apparently, I 'can't stop, won't stop' with these alliterations!)

Whether you’re making a bucket list of activities or embracing the lazy days of summer, we hope this season is rejuvenating for you. Some of the best times spent are making s’mores by a fire pit, backyard barbecues with friends, spending a day on the water, eating ice cream at a nearby park or simply soaking up a starry night with someone you love.

Have we told you lately that we appreciate YOU? Yes, you. You choose to take time every month to engage with your community through the pages of Frederick Lifestyle. That matters! Thank you, readers. We’re lost without you!

Nothing says summer in Frederick County quite like fireworks at the ballpark. We hope you make it out to Harry Grove Stadium to partake in this local tradition. It’s always a good time!

Happy 4th of July everybody!

July 2023

PUBLISHER

Amber Smith | Amber.Smith@CityLifestyle.com

EDITOR

Kristen Wojdan | Kristen.Wojdan@CityLifestyle.com

ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR

Shannon Libby | Shannon.Libby@CityLifestyle.com

INTERN

Maddie Wojdan

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily Dickey, Karen Justice, Laura Mark, Danielle Rizzo

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Dr. Laura Sherwood, Marie Rose Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

AMBER SMITH, PUBLISHER @FREDERICKLIFESTYLE

city scene

MAGNOLIA HOME RENOVATIONS

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Manisha

EXPERT TEAM MAKES OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES SPECTACULAR

to how he carries out the testing and analysis of pool water for customers to best meet their needs and keep the care of their pools to a minimum. “If it’s done correctly and with the right products, caring for a pool should only take about 5 minutes a week.”

POOLS, PATIOS & PORCHES OFFERS

YEARS OF KNOWLEDGE HELPING CUSTOMERS MAKE THE MOST OF SUMMER

The family that works and plays together, stays together.  Since 2002, Paul Gorgol and his wife Donna have incorporated their family into every part of building their business Pools, Patios and Porches.

“My wife and I always said, ‘Wouldn’t it be nice to have a pool and outdoor patio furniture store in Frederick?’” said Paul. “We have had a pool for 34 years and I have always loved working in the yard, even when I was younger working with my dad and grandmother.”

Originally from Scranton, Pennsylvania, Paul graduated from Penn State with a degree in Medical Technology. Work and marriage brought Paul and Donna to Frederick in 1986. At the time, Paul was selling medical equipment in the Baltimore area and then progressed to concrete repair equipment for 13 years.

“All of those experiences brought marketing and science into my life, which better prepared me for the work I do here,” said Paul, noting that the lab work he conducted at PSU is similar

Paul and Donna purchased an already-established Frederick pool business in 2002, and renamed it Pools, Patios & Porches. In 2014, the couple seized the opportunity to expand the store by investing in their current location on the corner of North Market Street and Wormans Mill Court, which provided a good location and a better design in which they could expand and offer more to their customers. They also have a location in Smithsburg, which is strictly pool-focused and seasonal. Frederick has been good to them over the years, Paul said, noting that he enjoys the small-community atmosphere and the opportunities to meet and help new people.

Just as the name implies, customers are met with everything they might need to make their outdoor experiences spectacular within the first few steps of entering the store on Wormans Mill Court. “The fun starts here,” Paul said.

Pool supplies range from fun pool floats and pool games to skimmers, motors, chemicals and covers. “We have everything you need for a pool, except the pool.”

Pool care has evolved quite a bit over the past two decades, according to Paul. “The biggest evolution to the pool world has been a transition to salt pools. Sodium Chloride keeps the pool clear and the equilibrium with the body’s salt content provides a better experience for the swimmer as well.”

Technology has aided in the development of pool pumps with variable speeds (which save

money for pool owners); heaters have also come a long way since the early 2000s. “Everyone in this area with a pool should have a heater.”

Many pool owners may feel overwhelmed when trying to keep up with the newest advancements in pool care. Paul said not to worry, that’s why they offer “pool schools” where a member of his team of experts goes on-site to a customer’s pool to assess the water, explain chemicals, etc. “You learn how to run your pool. The best pool is the one you are in all summer. Our team makes that possible.”

The Pools, Patios and Porches team is comprised of twelve year-round, full-time employees, including Paul, Donna, daughter Kelly, sons Bryan and Michael, grandkids and some people who have “become like family.” Employees stay up-todate by attending in-house training sessions from suppliers and traveling to trade shows. “I’m only as good as my team. We have built an incredible staff that is light, fun and very knowledgeable."

The store also features a Swim Shop full of competitive-grade swimwear and tech suits by brands such as Speedo, ARENA, Dolfin and TYR. College, high school and club teams from around the area outfit their teams here, or have online access to easily buy customized gear with team logos and personalization.

"We are a one-stop shop. That has always been our goal."

In addition to meeting every swimming need, Paul's business also offers outdoor patio furniture so customers can create their perfect backyard sanctuary. Featuring products from Telescope and Breezesta, the Frederick location is full of various sets for lounging poolside, entertaining on a patio or screened-in porch, relaxing by a fire or reading on the front porch. Customers may purchase pieces in stock or place an in-store order to meet their individual desires.

Not only does the business work to make the warmer months spectacular, they also become a holiday resource with their “Jingle Shop.” From November to mid-January, the store houses a variety of Christmas decorations and lights; they also offer custom designs as well.  “We don’t have a slow time. We are truly a year-round business. Customizing is what we really focus on during the  Christmas season.”

Despite being busy year-round, Paul, 65, said he and his wife do take time off every once in a while and he is hoping to do it more often—but the time off doesn’t mean they want to be away from family. “We enjoy spending time with our kids and grandkids at our pool and going to their events. We even take a family trip to Bethany Beach together every year. We like being together whether it’s at the store or on vacation.”   PPPPool.com

WEDNESDAY

Eat Fresh, Support Local

Shop at Common Market and Support Local Food Producers All Summer Long

The Common Market has about 205 local vendors in its two stores located on West Seventh Street and Buckeystown Pike. “Local” is considered anything produced within 200 miles of Frederick. Of those, 106 are from Maryland and 22 are from Washington, D.C. The rest are from VA, WV and PA. Stop by both locations all summer long to pick up fresh food and support local food producers. Meet a few of those local food producers as they share their love for Common Market. CommonMarket.coop

TWIN BEARS BAKERY

Twin Bears Bakery specializes in creating naturally fermented breads in the French tradition of Pain Au Levain. Head bakers Jay Switlick and Andrew Roy use locally sourced grains and ingredients to create some of the best breads the area has to offer. As traditional bakers, Jay and Andrew complete many of the processes by hand that are typically completed by machines in modern bakeries. Fresh local flour combined with a traditional hands-on approach to baking produces a bread that is as unique and diverse as this wonderful area we all call home. TwinBearsBakery.com

"COMMON MARKET HAS ALWAYS BEEN SUPPORTIVE OF OUR CORE MISSION OF SUPPORTING FARMERS, MILLERS AND COMMUNITIES THROUGH BREAD."

- Andrew Roy

MARYLAND LAMB CO.

Maryland Lamb Co-op is a collective of farms producing grass-fed lamb. They pride themselves on raising their lambs locally and sustainably. They take customers from pasture to plate, in a very open and interactive journey. The co-op is women focused and run, with an interest in fostering good food, a spirit of community and environmental stewardship. Their ultimate goal is to leave the world just a little better than how they found it. MarylandLamb.com

"WE LOVE HOW COMMON MARKET FOCUSES ON FEATURING LOCAL FARMERS TO KEEP OUR LOCAL FOOD SYSTEMS STRONG AND WE ARE EXCITED THAT THEIR VALUES ALIGN CLOSELY WITH THOSE OF THE CO-OP."

- Meredith Null

WHITE HOUSE NURSERY

White House Nursery is a family run central Maryland Small Business that grows unique and traditional seasonal plants of beauty and purpose that enrich lives with color, fragrance and flavor. They provide high quality plants while creating an environment sensitive to the needs of customers, employees and community. "Doing the right thing even when no one is looking," is a core value that guides everything they do.  WhiteHouseNursery.com

“SOUTH MOUNTAIN CREAMERY HAS BEEN A PROUD PARTNER WITH THE COMMON MARKET FOR MANY YEARS BECAUSE WE SHARE A SIMILAR VISION: PROVIDING CUSTOMERS WITH THE OPPORTUNITY TO 'KNOW YOUR FARMER, KNOW YOUR FOOD' THROUGH A TRANSPARENT FOOD SUPPLY CHAIN.” -

SOUTH MOUNTAIN CREAMERY

South Mountain Creamery is a family and farmer-owned and operated farm located in Middletown, MD that has been bringing high-quality, farm-fresh products to the area for more than 20 years. They are committed to providing fresh, wholesome food by using sustainable practices like grass-fed and non-GMO farming standards, reusable packaging, all-natural ingredients and supporting the local community. SouthMountainCreamery.com

"WHITE HOUSE NURSERY APPRECIATES THE RESEARCH AND CONCERN THE COMMON MARKET PUTS INTO PROVIDING QUALITY PRODUCTS TO THEIR COMMUNITY."

- Marilyn Sparks

Chris Horn

HOUSE IN THE WOODS

House in the Woods Farm is a certified organic farm in Adamstown, Maryland, founded in 2000 by Phil and Ilene Freedman. Hands-on education on the farm is at the heart of what they do—from the on-farm CSA program to Common Market Crop Mobs—teaching the community to participate in the growth of food, get their hands into the soil and connect with the land. The Common Market sells their heirloom tomato and herb seedlings, heirloom tomatoes, butternut squash and sweet potatoes. HouseInTheWoods.com

PLEASANT HILL PRODUCE

Pleasant Hill Produce was founded in 2014 by Ben Sayler of Walkersville, Maryland. They grow a wide range of vegetables on over five acres and work with other local farms to offer a very diverse CSA program, including fruits, meats, cheeses, eggs, bread, etc. PleasantHillProduce.com

"AS MEMBER-OWNERS AND A VENDOR OF THE COMMON MARKET, I APPRECIATE THE COMMON MARKET’S LONG-TERM COMMITMENT TO SUPPORTING LOCAL FARMERS IN OUR COMMUNITY."

- Ilene Freedman

"I APPRECIATE THAT THE COMMON MARKET CARRIES SUCH A WIDE RANGE OF ORGANIC AND LOCAL PRODUCTS." - Ben Sayler

SOUTH MOUNTAIN MICROFARM

South Mountain MicroFARM is more than fresh, sustainable and local; they are committed to providing the highest quality products that improve not only the health of their customers but also the community and the ecosystems that surround them. This is made possible by utilizing an Eco-System Approach to year-round production and the fact that they use no chemical pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, growth hormones or antibiotics in their operations. SouthMtnMicrofarm.com

"WE LOVE THE COMMON MARKET FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF LOCAL PRODUCERS, THEIR DEDICATION TO HELPING NEW VENDORS GET STARTED, AND THEIR REGULAR EVENTS THAT SHOWCASE NEW PRODUCTS AND PRODUCERS."

- Levi Sellers

FREESIA AND VINE

Through the purple gate, a hidden garden welcomes you to Freesia and Vine. Downtown Frederick’s hustle and bustle quickly fades away to the serene sound of chirping birds and wind blowing through tree leaves as you step into the flower shop.

As you make your way into the store, you may even be greeted by a curious squirrel that owner, Liz Gillison, occasionally feeds while enjoying a meditative moment with nature between orders. The beauty of the outdoors pours into Freesia and Vine with different varieties of flowers filling the space with bright colors and fresh scents.

Liz, alongside business partner, Jackie Gambill, first opened Freesia and Vine in 2017 out of Jackie’s garage. The pair worked well together and became fast friends at a now-closed flower shop and knew they could grow a business of their own. In early 2018, Jackie and Liz were ready to expand and took root at their cozy downtown location. Easy online ordering and a straightforward selection of bouquet designs have been key ways of providing a great experience for people as Freesia and Vine established itself over the past six years.

However, it's Liz and Jackie's warm smiles, fun-loving personalities and deep love for the community that truly set Freesia and Vine apart. “We put thought into the clients,” Jackie said. “We know this person has a cat, so we make a catfriendly arrangement.”

Liz and Jackie’s original floral designs steadily make their mark in the Frederick community. A number of local restaurants and bakeries have become devoted clients, bringing vibrant fresh florals to their own businesses. Floral arrangements bring life to spaces for new homeowners across Frederick County as gifts from a local realtor who quickly became a regular customer at Freesia and Vine.

The attention to detail—selecting exactly the right color and style—makes every arrangement

special and unique. “We like to have fun, and I think that makes a lot of people think the job is easy, but it is a lot of hard work and there is a lot of care we put into the details,” Jackie said. “We really enjoy the work and we are so thankful for our clients.”

When a client has a specific vision, and there’s one type of flower that can make it complete, Liz and Jackie will take the time to find that flower and make their dream a reality. These ladies are not only up for a challenge, but they will find a way to have fun and make it exciting through the process. They’ve been able to recreate sentimental arrangements that bring joy to their clients, like a bridal bouquet from over 20 years ago.

Freesia and Vine also connects people from out of state with their loved ones in Frederick County through their online ordering system. “We helped an older man in NJ who liked to give flowers to his grandson’s mother-in-law,” Liz recalled. “Those shared positive experiences can make it so satisfying.”

Liz and Jackie both lived out of state prior to settling in Frederick more than 20 years ago, so they know what a thoughtful arrangement from a distant loved one can mean for someone. “My four grandchildren are my greatest joy,” Liz said. “They don’t live in Frederick, but when I can, I love to go and hang out with them.”

That’s what it’s all about—family and love. Jackie and Liz help people connect with their loved ones and brighten their days through their thoughtful floral designs at Freesia and Vine.

FAVFlowers.com

“We like to have fun, and I think that makes a lot of people think the job is easy, but it is a lot of hard work and there is a lot of care we put into the details... We really enjoy the work and we are so thankful for our clients.” - Jackie Gambill

summer drinks at sunset

ENJOY SUMMER DRINKS ON THE ROOFTOP AT SPRINGHILL SUITES BY MARRIOTT IN DOWNTOWN FREDERICK OR MAKE THESE AT HOME

mint julep

ingredients:

MINTY SYRUP (MAKES ABOUT 1/2 CUP):

• 1 cup water

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 bunch fresh mint

FOR EACH COCKTAIL:

• crushed ice

• 2 ounces bourbon

• 1/2 ounce minty syrup, more to taste

• fresh lemon juice, to taste

• fresh mint, for garnish

1. Combine the water and sugar in a small saucepan and simmer, stirring, until the sugar dissolves.

2. Add the fresh mint, turn the heat off and let steep for 15 minutes.

3. Strain and chill.

4. The minty syrup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge.

5. Assemble the cocktail with crushed ice, bourbon, minty syrup and lemon juice.

6. Stir and garnish with fresh mint.

Sparkling Red, White and Blue Sangria

ingredients:

• 1 bottle dry white wine, chilled

• 1 pound fresh strawberries, sliced

• 2 cups fresh blueberries

• 1 cup fresh raspberries

• 1/2 cup brandy or orange liqueur (such as Grand Marnier or Cointreau)

• 1 bottle sparkling white wine, chilled (such as Cava or champagne)

• 3–4 Granny Smith apples, cut into star shapes

• ice

directions:

1. Stir together white wine, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and brandy/orange liqueur in a large pitcher.

2. Cover and refrigerate for 1 to 4 hours so that the flavors can blend.

3. When ready to serve the sangria, stir in the sparkling white wine, apples and a handful of ice.

4. Serve immediately over ice.

The d|law Team

Shondell Foster!

“Shondell is a skilled attorney with a wonderful reputation amongst the bar association and our bench. She is well-loved by her clients and has a sharp instinct and applies a reasonable approach to her work. We are blessed that she is choosing to further develop her career at d|law.”

Separation Agreements Adoptions

Jersey Nights and More

TAKE ME OUT TO NYMEO FIELD AT HARRY GROVE STADIUM

Nymeo Field at Harry Grove Stadium is more than a baseball park. The games are more than baseball. “Minor league baseball brings the community together,” said General Manager, Andrew Klein. “It’s great for families. It creates memories.”

Games also provide diverse fun and generous funds for the community. Attending on a Jersey Night is both. On three nights this season, every Frederick Keys player, the coaches and sometimes even the mascot, will be wearing jerseys designed especially for a specific beneficiary. Those jerseys will never be worn on the field again.

During the game, up to thirty-five shirts are auctioned to the highest bidders. Bids can be placed online or in person. At the end of the game, if they are present, winners receive the shirts directly from the players. They can even have the shirts signed if they so desire.

Jersey Night recipients are chosen by The Keys leadership. For seventeen years, Art in the Park jerseys have been worn to benefit the Frederick Arts Council. Each time, the Frederick Arts Council selects an artist to design the shirt and the Keys manage the production. Adding to the theme of that game, each ballplayer adds an artistic touch to their individual baseball. Some are amazing, some are simple, but each artistic, player-designed baseball is also auctioned to benefit the Arts Council.

Intentionally, Jersey Nights and Fireworks Nights coincide. “Since Firework Nights are typically our best-attended games, we want to give each jersey auction the biggest opportunity to be seen and charities the greatest opportunity to generate auction proceeds,” Klein said.

According to Klein, a shirt auction can bring in as much as five thousand dollars for each featured non-profit. The non-profit

also benefits from the night’s proceeds, as well as the proceeds from the Wheel of Fortune games.

This year, there will be two additional Jersey Nights at Nymeo Field. The Atlantic League team will host Jersey Nights for the Veterans Service Center and National Foundation for Cancer. (By June 23, the public will know the new name of the team, but Klein wouldn’t and couldn’t reveal the name at the time of this interview.)

Several events during the season, such as their Fun Run, raise funds for Frederick Keys Care . “Keys Care is our in-house non-profit that provides grant funds to benefit youth and youth sports,” Klein shared. “For example, one of our games is labeled Mystery Night. That night baseballs signed by current and past players are put into plain paper bags and auctioned. It’s a mystery whose ball you will win!”

Non-profits that are not beneficiaries of a Jersey Night or recipients of a Keys Care grant can still take advantage of a fundraising opportunity through a Pack the Park night. By purchasing game tickets at significant savings, the non-profit can Pack the Park and make a profit as they sell the tickets at full price.

“We pack a bus, too,” Klein said. “Over the last 2 years, we’ve had a community relationship with the Baltimore Orioles. On June 26, the Keys, the Orioles and United Way will host the opportunity to Stuff the Bus.”

The Keys and Nymeo Field provide a lot of youth-oriented activities beyond the visible Fun Zone next to the field. Any child, 12 and under, who registers on the Keys’ website for the Junior Keys Kids Club receives a special bag and free entry to a limited number of games. Children

who attend the game in their Little League uniforms receive free admission when accompanied by a paying adult. The Frederick Keys also organize two three-day youth baseball camps each year.

Baseball in Frederick is bigger and better this year. Instead of the recently offered forty games in a season, Nymeo Field will host eighty-eight games in 2023. The field has been upgraded with a new playing surface to better handle the increased number of games. The need for less care is especially important since the field will get more use. The Atlantic League is frequently playing on the field when the Keys are not.

Eighty-eight games provide plentiful opportunities for family fun, making memories, building business relationships and benefitting the youth and community. Take me out to the ball game! FrederickKeys.com

Both Frederick baseball teams will wear specialty jerseys throughout the season which will be auctioned off to benefit great causes.

JUNE 17

The Keys will wear Mandalorian-themed jerseys to benefit Sophie and Madigan’s Playground.

JULY 22

The Atlantic League will wear jerseys to benefit the National Foundation for Cancer.

AUGUST 5

The Keys will wear special jerseys for Cancer Awareness Night to benefit the American Cancer Society.

AUGUST 19

The Atlantic League will wear jerseys to benefit the Veteran Services Center.

SEPTEMBER 1

Special Art in the Park jerseys to benefit the Frederick Arts Council.

*Fans will also be able to bid on autographed baseballs designed by coaches and players during each of these game days.

*To apply for funds from the Frederick Keys Care fund, contact The Community Foundation of Frederick.

Gather and Graze

CELEBRATE WITH CHARCUTERIE

Vision comes in multiple forms for entrepreneurs. Gina and Evan O’Rourke have always been visionaries in one form or another. When people drank coffee in diners and restaurants, young Gina and Evan dreamed of opening a coffee shop. Gina was serving her household guests from a charcuterie board before that single-plated cornucopia of food became popular.

In March 2021, opening a shop of charcuterie boards began to form in her mind. As she looked at the crowd gathered outside of a food shop where she was waiting for some of her favorite food, the word

“Gather” came to mind. It’s exactly what people do around foods they enjoy. They gather around charcuterie boards.

A mere four months later, Gather, the first licensed charcuterie vendor in town, was operational. They had acquired business and food service licenses, supplies, a website and space in a shared kitchen. The O’Rourkes move quickly.

They move quickly on production, too. While most caterers will ask for a couple days’ notice, if you call Gather by 6:00PM on Friday, you can pick up your order at noon on Saturday. The cellophane-wrapped, basket-like creation is easy to carry from their shared space at 300 E. 2nd Street.

All Gather collections are cold or cool foods, but they can be savory or sweet, vegan or gluten-free. They aim to provide the freshest produce they can find, including local and organic when available, and usually serve everything on palm leaf trays. A charcuterie board could be the typical meats and cheeses, fruits, veggies and tea sandwiches, or a S'mores tray, tray of hot chocolate toppings, goat cheese truffles and more.

Actually, the “more” is sometimes hidden. For example, one of Gather’s customers loves olives, so Gina hides additional olives under a sunflower garnish.

Sometimes, being surprised is delightful.

The “more” can also be in plain sight as a large, plentiful and gorgeous Grazing Table. In other words, think of your table as the charcuterie board. Gather can create one for

thirty-five people or more. From edge to edge, the table is full of tasty delights designed specifically for gathering.

If you have a bridal shower, a celebration of life, a retirement party or simply a large family reunion, gathering around a Grazing Table adds to the camaraderie and enjoyment. Food and fun always pair well and delight guests. One of Gather’s customers called while still on her honeymoon to tell Gina that the Grazing Table had been the highlight of their wedding reception.

For something smaller, order a Charcuterie Cone, a small Picnic Box, the Sweetheart Box, Date Night Box, or the charming Children’s Tea Sandwiches that are cut into different shapes. One of the smaller orders is also a good gift for a grieving family. Grazing as they gather is sometimes easier than heating a casserole.

The vision of Gather’s owners continues. They’ve taken the emerging trend toward Butter Boards and made them their own. Imagine a peanut butter and chocolate hummus board with pretzels, etc. There are other sweet or savory options. Beyond the platter, Gather also offers craft cocktail kits to go. The kits include dried fruit, herbs and flavored turbinado sugar in a Mason jar. Add your own spirits and let them infuse for a few days. Serve as you wish or use one of the recipes Gather provides.

Gina and Evan also envision their own storefront. They’ll get there someday. Gathering is an age-old human activity. Food is a necessity. GatherCharcuterie.com

Tips to Create Your Own Grazing Table

While Gather prepares a Grazing Table on site, there are a few secrets to creating one yourself.

Place the table so guests can walk around it and cover the surface with food-safe butcher paper. Build height into your display for the best look. Follow the usual charcuterie rules:

1. Provide 2 oz. of meat and 2 oz. of cheese per guest.

2. Fill with really fresh local products.

3. Remove anything bruised or blemished.

4. Keep it all bite-sized.

5. Keep damp items away from crackers.

For something less challenging, try one of Gina's Private Charcuterie Classes. GatherCharcuterie.com

COMMITTED to COMMUNICATION

Mjach Designs is a North American leader in marketing

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

JULY 1ST, 3RD, 7TH, 8TH, 22ND, 28TH & 29TH Frederick Baseball and Fireworks

NYMEO FIELD AT HARRY GROVE STADIUM

Watch the Frederick Keys or the Frederick Atlantic League compete, enjoy the food and drinks and stay late for the fireworks display. (Expect double fireworks on July 3rd for the Independence Day celebration.) Tickets on sale: MLBDraftLeague.com/Frederick and FrederickAtlanticLeague.com

JULY 1ST-2ND, 8TH-9TH, 15TH-16TH, 22ND-23RD, & 29TH-30TH

Safari Rides at Catoctin

Wildlife Preserve

Climb aboard our narrated, ridethrough Safari Truck! The one-hour adventure ride showcases exotic animals from six continents while traveling through twenty-five wooded acres and four different paddocks. They’re all there for the fun, feeding and photographing! Safari Rides are an optional add-on to the General Admission ticket. Safari Rides are available during the weekends. Park open daily, weather permitting.  CatoctinWildlifePreserve.com

JULY 2ND, 9TH, 16TH, 23RD & 30TH Summer Concerts at the Band Shell

BAKER PARK BAND SHELL

Enjoy free, high-quality musical entertainment on Sunday nights. From tribute artists and oldies to afrofunk and

bluegrass, Summer Concert Series showcases professional musicians from a wide range of musical backgrounds. Previous artists have included jazz legend Charlie Byrd, Spyro Gyro’s Scott Ambush and Julio Fernandez, country chart-climber Cleve Francis, Bluegrass favorite Railroad Earth, L.A.based Latin group Incendio, bluesman Tom Principato and many more.

CelebrateFrederick.com

JULY 3RD, 10TH, 17TH, 24TH & 31ST

Bluegrass Mondays at Smoketown

SMOKETOWN CREEKSIDE

Come out and see the amalgamation of bluegrass players from around Frederick County! Recurring weekly on Mondays. 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM SmoketownCreekside.com

JULY 4TH Frederick's 4th: An Independence Day Celebration

BAKER PARK | 12:00 PM

Celebrate the largest Independence Day celebration in Frederick County with two stages of entertainment alongside family-friendly rides, activities, food, and fireworks from noon to dusk. Free admission. CelebrateFrederick.com

JULY 6TH, 13TH, 20TH & 27TH Alive @ Five

CARROLL CREEK

AMPHITHEATER.

Alive @ Five is an outdoor happy hour every Thursday from 5-8pm in the Carroll Creek Amphitheater. All events are 21+ only • $6 entry + $6 drinks • Food available for purchase on-site. Alive @ Five is Downtown Frederick Partnership’s largest fundraiser of the year. DowntownFrederick.org

HAPPY

Monday

luckycornerrestaurant.com

5100 Buckeystown Pike Frederick, Maryland 301-360-5913

JULY 15TH

The 9th Annual National Clustered Spires High Wheel Race

DOWNTOWN FREDERICK

12:00 PM

The only race of its kind in the nation, this high wheel (penny farthing) bike race features racers from all over the world speeding through the streets of Downtown Frederick. Watch these dare-devils riding antique or replica 19th-century bikes as they compete for the national title. Enjoy music, food trucks, adult beverages and more while enjoying the spectacle of America's only high-wheel bicycle race. VisitFrederick.org

JULY 19TH Salsa Under the Stars

SKY STAGE | 7:00 PM

Enjoy salsa dancing under the stars at Sky Stage. Frederick Salsa instructor, Silvia Yacoubian, offers a lesson at 7 PM followed by dancing to Latin beats spun by DJ Willie and occasional live musicians. All ages, beer/wine/sangria/malt beverages for 21+ with I.D. as well as other small concessions available for purchase with cards, cash or some apps. Entry by cash donation to Frederick Salsa. SkyStageFrederick.com

JULY 23RD

Yoga in the Vines at Loew Vineyards

LOEW VINEYARDS | 11:00 AM

Enjoy a yoga session at the winery! The event includes: A yoga session with instructor Kristen Coffey, live music, a glass of wine, a souvenir logo wine glass to take home and outdoor space to enjoy the wine. This event is all ages (but age 21+ to consume alcohol).  Door opens at 10:30 AM. LoewVineyards.com

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The Power of Summer Branding

Just as we update our wardrobes and homes with the seasons, it’s important for our businesses and brands to do so as well! When it comes to summer branding, it is key to capture the essence of the season and create a compelling and engaging message that resonates with your target audience.

Top Reasons To Enhance Your Summer Branding

1) INCREASED CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT

Summer branding allows businesses to connect with their target audience on a deeper level. By tapping into the positive emotions and experiences associated with summer—such as relaxation, adventure and enjoyment—businesses can create a more meaningful connection with their customers. This increased engagement can lead to higher brand loyalty and increased customer retention.

2) EXPANSION INTO NEW MARKETS

Summer is a time when people are more open to trying new things and exploring new experiences. (Think about all of the traveling people do over the summer.) By leveraging summer branding, businesses can attract customers who may not have considered their

products or services before. For example, a clothing brand could launch a summer collection targeting a specific audience or a restaurant could introduce a summer-themed menu to entice new customers.

3) SEASONAL PROMOTIONS AND SALES

Summer branding provides an excellent opportunity for businesses to offer special promotions, discounts or limited-time offers. People are often looking for deals and discounts during the summer, and by aligning your branding with these promotions, you can create a sense of urgency and encourage potential customers to take action.

4) GET IN PERSON

With the warm weather and sunshine, it is the perfect time to throw an outdoor event and get your potential clients in front of you and your brand in a unique way! Make it seasonal with fun summer decorations, food and drinks. (You can even make it themed if you are feeling adventurous.) By creating a unique experience for your target audience, you provide the opportunity to show your brand in an intimate setting.

Overall, the power of summer branding lies in its ability to create a memorable and engaging experience for customers, increase brand visibility and drive customer loyalty and sales. By leveraging the unique opportunities that summer presents, businesses can position themselves strategically and make a lasting impact on their target audience. MarielleAgency.com

Danielle M. Rizzo

Danielle is the CEO of Marielle Agency, a strategic business consulting and growth marketing agency that helps modern entrepreneurs achieve their business goals through streamlined processes and procedures, as well as through innovative marketing ideas. Danielle is also a proud mother of four amazing children!

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