2026 Fall
Exponential Growth Continues The Future of Frederick
Warding off the Ordinary • Sewing a Social Network • Innovating with Intention Mind Your Business
CAMP WEST MAR RENTALS HAVE YOUR NEXT STAFF RETREAT AT CAMP WEST MAR! Camp West Mar provides a beautiful setting and escape from the day-to-day grind of work and school. We will happily lead you through teambuilding activities, provide an introduction to canoeing or archery, and end the day over a campfire with S’mores. We are happy to accommodate your group’s needs and make it an experience you won’t soon forget! Consider Camp West Mar for your weekend retreats, getaways and group events (family reunions, corporate team-building, youth group overnight, etc.)
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• Access to dining hall, pavilions, field, sand volleyball, gaga ball, trails, amphitheater, kids climbing web, and no-harness wall (program add-ons are optional for additional cost) • Perfect for birthday parties, graduation parties, corporate lunches/picnics, etc. • Rentals can use/access the industrial kitchen with freezers/walk-in cooler for an additional fee. Discounts available on rentals for YMCA of Frederick County members and fellow non-profit organizations. Reach out to Tim Dunn at tdunn@ frederickymca.org for current rates or more information.
Here is where... innovation advances care.
Dr. Narayan Kulkarni Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine
frederickhealth.org/here
FFaall l 22 002265
BUSINESS BRIEF Dear Readers, Frederick Business Quarterly launched as a digital magazine in Fall 2023. By the following year we moved it to print and here we are; three years and 12 issues later. But "to everything there is a season," (whether you're quoting the Bible or Pete Seeger), and we've decided it’s time for us to end FBQ with this issue. Shuttering a magazine is never an easy decision, especially a publication that has been shaped by the curiosity, enthusiasm and support of both its readers and sponsored partnerships. We want to extend our deepest thanks to all of you for your support over these three years. You made it possible for us to serve the business community while bringing this magazine to fruition each quarter. While this particular publication is coming to an end, it's not goodbye. Keep joining us on the FBQ website for digital content as well as for the 7th annual issue of Frederick FACES ... coming soon! So, stay tuned. Pulse Publishing has some new and exciting publications on the horizon, and we can’t wait to share what comes next with you.
Donna Elbert, Publisher, on behalf of the entire staff of Pulse Publishing
12 S. Market Street, Suite 101 Frederick, MD 21701 p. 301-662-6050 | f. 301-662-5102 www.FrederickBusiness.com
Frederick Business Quarterly is a quarterly publication of Pulse Publishing, LLC. All contents of this publication are protected by copyright and may not be reproduced in whole or in part for any reason without prior consent of the publisher. Frederick Business Quarterly makes every effort to ensure accuracy and does not hold responsibility for incorrect or missing information. Thank you to our advertisers for the continued support. Thank you also to the Frederick County business community who offered their time and insight toward the content of this issue. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are not reflective of the views and opinions of Frederick Business Quarterly or Pulse Publishing, LLC.
On the cover: Illustration courtesy of Greenberg Gibbons
4 Frederick Business Quarterly
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CONTRIBUTORS PUBLISHER Donna S. Elbert donna@pulsepublishing.net
EDITOR/CREATIVE DIRECTOR Melissa Howes-Vitek melissa@pulsepublishing.net
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Gabby Mongeau gabby@pulsepublishing.net
MARKETING AND DIGITAL MANAGER
Shuan Butcher is a nonprofit professional, writer, and event planner. He previously served as the executive director of the Frederick Arts Council and has been a member of the City of Frederick’s Public Art Commission and the Visit Frederick board of directors.
Naomi Pearson is an accomplished journalist who began writing features and short articles for local magazines about people, activities, and community issues particular to Frederick County, shortly after moving to the area in 2009. She freelanced as a side hustle to her day job in her previous role as a technical writer and editor. She also was a Citizen Blogger ("Fresh in Frederick") for the Frederick News Post until the program was discontinued in 2017.
Crystal DeTemple McNeel crystal@pulsepublishing.net
COPY EDITOR Molly Fellin Spence molly@pulsepublishing.net
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Ana Lazo Eastep
Molly Fellin Spence is an accomplished writer and editor with more than two decades of experience in the world of journalism. She’s worked with a variety of print and digital publications in the Mid-Atlantic region creating and honing compelling content to engage readers. A native Pennsylvanian, she has called Frederick, Maryland, home since 2002.
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Cody Cervenka/ Crvnka Photography Shuan Butcher Dr. ChaCha Hudson
DISTRIBUTION
distribution@pulsepublishing.net
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Frederick Business Quarterly 5
22
Illustrations courtesy of Greenberg Gibbons
INDEX Brickworks Development Coming to Frederick
6 Frederick Business Quarterly
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INDEX
10
LEADERS WHO LEARN
14
Top Picks in Print and Podcasts
14
IN THEIR SHOES
A Day in the Life of: Monica Pearce, CEO, Tenth Ward Distilling Company
32
IMPACT
The SEWcial Café: Designed for Community
32 Fall 2026
Frederick Business Quarterly 7
Stop Wasting Time Finding the Right Consultant You don’t need more options. You need the right one.
If you’ve ever tried to find a trainer, consultant, or coach, you know how quickly it becomes a drain on your time and resources. Endless referrals. Dozens of proposals. Conversations that go nowhere. And at the end of it, you’re still not entirely confident you’ve made the right choice. That’s where we come in. The Trainers and Consultants Referral Network, managed by HR Answerbox, connects you with vetted experts who align with your specific business needs. We work with more than 260 consultants, trainers, coaches, and speakers across a wide range of specialties. But this isn’t a directory. We don’t expect you to sort through profiles or sit through multiple pitches. Instead, we take the time to understand what you’re trying to solve and connect you with 2–3 experts who are the right fit for your goals, culture, and budget. Whether you’re navigating a complex employee issue, developing your leaders, improving engagement, or addressing a critical business challenge, we help you move forward faster and with greater confidence. No RFP process. No wasted time. No guesswork.
240.394.9439 amanda@hranswerbox.com
Just the right expertise, when you need it.
hranswerbox.com trainersconsultantsreferralnetwork.com
You ask. We solve. 8 Frederick Business Quarterly
Fall 2026
Fall into a
NEW commute CARPOOLS
VANPOOLS
Connect with commuters in your area who share similar work schedules and have an interest in carpooling.
Join a current vanpool, or start your own! DID YOU KNOW? Transit offers a financial subsidy to fill empty vanpool seats!
301-600-2065
Fall 2026
FrederickCountyMD.gov/Transit Transit@frederickcountymd.gov
Frederick Business Quarterly 9
LEADERS WHO LEARN... Where do executives and small business owners go to tune into the latest trends and cultivate inspiration? We asked a few of our contributors for their top picks in print and podcasts.
PRO READS Start With Yourself: A New Vision for Work and Life by Emma Grede
Emma Grede's recently published book is certainly making waves, with an enthusiastic recommendation from Oprah and high praise from the Wall Street Journal. Dubbed "a modern executive
“While nothing happens
overnight or without a lot of hard work, you can engineer your life to match your wildest dreams.”
for the influencer age," by WSJ,
- Emma Grede
Grede is perfectly equipped to present this straightforward guide on one's own terms. The book is
a cofounder of culture-defining
a peek into how she made it all
making appearances on suggested
global businesses, a nonprofit
possible. While some of the self-
business reading lists and as "the"
champion and host of the podcast
help concepts aren't necessarily
book club selection for women
“Aspire with Emma Grede.” And
new, Grede packages them in a
aspiring to unlock their full
she did it all while raising a family
fresh way that speaks directly to
potential, with a side of healthy
of four children.
current times and the stresses that
work-life balance. Grede defied all the odds to become a serial entrepreneur,
Sounds too good to be true? Her book – part memoir, part self-help, part inspiration – is
10 Frederick Business Quarterly
face modern working women. Grede grew up with a single mom in a rough neighborhood and never
Fall 2026
istockphoto.com /Jacob Wackerhausen
to finding meaningful success
Leaders Who Learn
finished high school. She offers this book as a guide that features tools that she honed over years of pushing to build her own life. Her words are offered to anyone tired of feeling like a bystander in their own life. It's about picking yourself back up after failures, being accountable yet forgiving when things go wrong, and not apologizing for the wins. Leave the old, stale thought patterns behind and embrace your dreams, taking active steps toward making it all happen. “Start with Yourself” offers a new vision for work and life that encourages readers to take responsibility for their own thinking in order to achieve personal and professional success at the highest levels. Melissa Howes-Vitek Editorial/Creative Director Pulse Publishing
“The book is part memoir, shot through with personal stories featuring a cast of characters, as Grede puts it, “straight out of a Guy Ritchie movie.” And it's part self-help book offering a
new mindset for success, one that encourages managing our emotions, clarifying what we want for ourselves and changing the way we think about what's possible.” -Los Angeles Times
Do you have a book, podcast or app that you've found helpful and/or inspirational to your life and career?
We encourage you to share the wealth…pass it on! Fall 2026
Frederick Business Quarterly 11
Main Street
MIDDLETOWN From Small Seeds Great Things Grow
M
ain Street Middletown is more than beautiful views. Our Main Street is full of businesses that started small, but have grown to serve generations of families, reach clients throughout the nation, and even world-wide! Our vibrant downtown is populated with niche businesses, restaurants, retail, and healthcare. Despite our rural views, we are conveniently located within minutes of downtown Frederick, major interstates, and an hour from Washington DC and Baltimore.
For more information visit mainstreetmiddletown.org
12 Frederick Business Quarterly
Main Street Middletown works to revitalize, preserve, promote, and support our fascinating downtown. We provide business support throughout the life of your business - from grand opening celebrations to milestone anniversaries, business mixers with technical assistance and educational opportunities, grants for building improvements, a robust marketing plan for the downtown, and special events that bring potential clients to your front door. ACCREDITED BY
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S P O T L I G H T on Middletown’s Retail Scene
Fall 2026
A
s a result of long-time retailers, new offerings and creative product placement, Middletown’s retail scene offers a mix of thoughtful, useful products that strengthen our core businesses and permeate our reputation for classic style and good values. We love supporting local businesses and encourage you to visit Main Street Middletown, explore its shops, and linger a little longer. Many Marylanders know Middletown for Gladhill Furniture, a 112-year-old local landmark, at 10 Walnut St. Its American-made furnishings are known for excellent quality and classic style, designed to be passed down for generations. Design specialists guide customers in selecting comfortable fabrics, cozy rugs and custom draperies to perfect your home’s comfort, style and livability. We are proud to be home to this legacy business. Another local shopping destination is Middletown Sportsland at 108 W. Main St., a 41-year-old business that is a rite of passage for local athletes. Many Frederick County athletes began their athletic journey here — with a team uniform or a first baseball glove.. Sportsland offers personalized service only owner Harold Routzahn can provide! Located at 4 W. Main St., above Hello Gorgeous Hair Salon is Hello Gorgeous Boutique, with clothing that is graceful, feminine and versatile enough for professional and casual wardrobes, including lace tops and colorful beaded or floral pieces. The Turquoise Trailer at 10 W. Main St. has clothing for women who embrace outdoor and farm life — equally comfortable in a tiered ruffle dress or in jeans brushing horses or cleaning stalls. Owner Breann Fields has customized cowboy hats and permanent jewelry, balancing country charm with everyday elegance. The Trolley House Market at 203C E. Main St., next to Beans and Dreams at 201 E. Main St., offers home décor, fresh floral arrangements, gourmet soup and pasta mixes, women’s accessories and local art. The shop specializes in delightful small luxuries and thoughtful details that make everyday life a bit more decadent. Whether you are a visitor or a longtime resident, we invite you to stop by 19 W. Main St., the Middletown Welcome Center. There, you will find giftable items that celebrate Middletown’s history, architecture and community, including hand-painted notecards, locally authored books, postcards, magnets, and stickers. Beyond these shops, Middletown offers even more places to find the perfect gift, a specialty item or a gift card. At The Main Cup, you can browse kitchen gadgets, grab-andgo food items, reusable shopping totes and Middletown-themed products. Aleko’s Café sells imported Greek specialty foods. Mountain Spirit Yoga offers yoga mats, blocks and wellness items. Dee Buchanan Studio of Dance carries dancing essentials, including leotards, tights, shoes and accessories. Bug and Jane, a Skin Sanctuary, offers products to inspire healthy living and glowing skin. We invite you to explore, shop, and learn more about the value of living, working and relaxing on Main Street Middletown, Maryland.
Frederick Business Quarterly 13
IN THEIR SHOES In Frederick County, many businesses are owned and operated by community members whose names may be familiar, though their daily work may be less so. Each issue invites you behind the scenes for a glimpse into the everyday life of one of those business owners, their employees or independent workers.
A Day in The Life of
Monica Pearce, CEO, Tenth Ward Distilling Company Words and Photos By Shuan Butcher
M
onica Pearce has been working in hospitality since she was 14. "I’ve done it all — waitressed, bartended, all that type of stuff," she says. She holds an undergraduate and a graduate degree in conservation biology, and spent time working in the nonprofit world, bartending on the side the whole time. When she came back to Frederick, the craft beverage scene was taking off. "The breweries were all starting to boom and pop up, and I was a whiskey drinker," she recalls. So she emptied her savings account and started a distillery. That leap of faith became Tenth Ward Distilling Company, now one of Frederick's best-known craft spirits producers, and a business Pearce has spent a decade shaping, refining and, in her words, keeping true to what makes it "ward off ordinary." The earliest version of Tenth Ward was about as scrappy as a business gets. "My mom and I were pouring samples on the weekends and selling bottles-to-go out of a very small 1,600-square-foot space down on Church Street," Pearce says. At the time, Maryland law wouldn't allow distilleries to serve cocktails or pours the way breweries could serve pints. So
Pearce and others in the industry lobbied to change it. "We got the laws passed," she says, "and that's when we — right before COVID hit — opened our cocktail bar and private event venue” on Patrick Street in Downtown Frederick.
Knowing Her Lane Pearce is candid about where her strengths lie, and where they don't. "I've always sort of thought I can do any job needed, but I know where my expertise
lies, and that's in sales, customer service, marketing, and branding," she says. That's not to say she's hands-off when it comes to the liquid in the bottle: "My palate's great. My mixology experience is great." What makes a good palate, in her view, isn't a matter of memorizing tasting-note vocabulary. "I think people get intimidated when they're asked to understand tasting notes about something," she says. "Everybody's palate is different, and what your brain is associating with something isn't wrong." continued page 17
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In Their Shoes
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In Their Shoes
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In Their Shoes
“You can't have a good product just by following a recipe . . . Every chef needs to taste their meal before they put it on the menu.” - Monica Pearce, CEO, Tenth Ward Distillery
Trusting your own palate, she says, matters as much as understanding the technical side of distilling. "You can't have a good product just by following a recipe," she says. "Every chef needs to taste their meal before they put it on the menu.” Nearly a decade in, Pearce's day-to-day is less about the still and more about the systems that keep 30 people and multiple revenue streams running smoothly. "I have a lot of communication with the team — answering questions, leading meetings, finance and operations, mostly," she says. She does a lot of the bookkeeping herself — deliberately. "That's something I like having control over, so I can see where trends and forecasting are happening. I think that's the best way for you to really understand your business inside and out," she says.
Beyond the books, Pearce describes her role as filling in wherever the business needs her that day: "I don't physically have to be here, usually, but I just like to make sure everything is running smoothly." If the team is short a mixologist, she'll develop a new cocktail recipe. If they're down an events coordinator, she's the one giving tours to wedding clients: "My job sort of changes based on where the team needs me at the time." She also makes it out to the Middletown production facility at least once a week to check in. The business itself is built around a small full-time core supporting a much larger part-time team. Tenth Ward employs about 30 people total, but only three are full-time — running the private events
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continued page 20
continued page 18
Frederick Business Quarterly 17
In Their Shoes
department, the bar and offsite operations, and wholesale. Revenue is split across four channels, Pearce says: roughly 25% wholesale, 25% private event rental income, 30% retail (bottle sales and club membership), and about 20% from cocktails and drinks served at the bar.
Leadership: Warm, But Direct Pearce describes her leadership style as a combination that may sound contradictory but, in practice, isn't. "I'm very direct, but I'm an open book, and I am very warm and welcoming," she says. "I want to be approachable and accessible to the team whenever they need something. But at the same time, I'll be direct and I won't sugarcoat anything, because I don't want there to be any confusion on expectations or tasks." That also means she holds herself to the same bar she sets for everyone else: "I'm not going to ask anybody to do something I wouldn't do. If we're short, I'm going to be the first one in here cleaning the bathrooms on a Friday night, mopping the floors, counting a drawer — whatever it is that I need to do." Business ownership has mostly been an education in people management for Pearce. Her advice for other entrepreneurs learning to lead: don't panic. "There are things you can't control that have happened, and you can't go back in time. An ice machine breaks, a forklift breaks, everybody has COVID and calls out sick — you just have to maintain a calm head and address the situation as it comes up." Beyond that, she points to two habits: taking critical feedback seriously, and treating team retention as the real job. "I notice in business ownership, 90% of it is just team management — keeping your staff
Tenth Ward’s product lineup is deliberately focused rather than sprawling: a “core four” spirits line and a “core four” canned cocktail line, refreshed twice per year with seasonal releases, plus quarterly exclusive releases for club members. happy and retained, and being available to them when they need you, but making sure you're communicating."
Being Recognized in a MaleDominated Industry Distilling remains a heavily maledominated field, and Pearce says that shaped her early experience running Tenth Ward. "In the beginning, it was certainly a challenge," she says. Along the way, she leaned heavily on other women in
18 Frederick Business Quarterly
the industry — a network she describes as more collaborative than competitive. "Women are more likely to support each other than compete against each other," Pearce says. She's connected with other female owners through panels, conferences and groups like Women in Bourbon and Women in Distilleries. "The rising tide raises all ships — that's what we believe," she says of her fellow producers. "I don't feel like there's a saturation issue. Alcohol sales in general
Fallr 2026
In Their Shoes
are down, but I don't think it's because we're competing with each other." She points instead to marijuana legalization, shifting drinking habits among younger adults, and broader economic pressure. Tenth Ward takes its name from its original location, which sat in what used to be Frederick City's Tenth Ward — one of the old voting districts. "Ward off ordinary is our slogan," Pearce says. "We like to make traditional items, but with an unconventional twist." That shows up in products such as a smoked bourbon and a Maryland rye made from 100% malted rye. "There's always going to be some kind of creative and fun garnish or syrup or ingredient — something you're never going to see anywhere else. Not only are we proud to be woman-owned, but everything is thoughtful to the brand." Tenth Ward’s product lineup is deliberately focused rather than sprawling: a "core four" spirits line and a "core four"
canned cocktail line, refreshed twice per year with seasonal releases, plus quarterly exclusive releases for club members. "That is where we can get creative and fun," Pearce says.
Evolving Without Chasing Every Idea Nearly 10 years in — a milestone Pearce says she always aimed for — she's found herself thinking less about what's next and more about what's essential. "I've changed in regard to how we make sure we have quality, and the process is simple and not overcomplicated," she says. "Not wanting to grasp at every single little idea that we think might work. I think I've gotten to the place where we refine the model." That mindset shapes how she approaches change generally, whether it's shifting consumer habits or the lingering effects of the pandemic. "Understanding first what the root of the problem is — I think that's important before you start
Fall 2026
making changes," she says. Some of that has meant leaning into non-alcoholic options as customers prioritize health, and building new reasons for people to visit, such as Sunday trivia and Wednesday board game nights — additions Pearce once resisted. She's also candid that change is most difficult on the team, not the business. "Making sure the team is as prepared as possible to be flexible, and ready to make a change if you have to — it's important." 3
i For more information Tenth Ward Distilling Company tenthwarddistilling.com F facebook.com/ tenthwardco d @ tenthwardco
Frederick Business Quarterly 19
Innovate with Intention By Dr. Cheryl Cioffi
A
s leaders, we face constant pressure to invest in new capabilities. “Innovation” is often equated with buying the newest technology or being first in the market. But most business leaders miss the true value of strategic
innovation: solving a meaningful problem that creates measurable improvements to benefit people, strengthen organizations and build healthier, more resilient communities. Organizations that begin with the needs of the people they serve are far more likely to make investments that create lasting value. Healthcare offers a clear example. Frederick County residents are facing elevated risks for both lung cancer and cardiovascular disease driven, in part, by environmental factors, smoking prevalence and an aging population. At Frederick Health, we aren’t waiting for these rates to slow down. We have implemented targeted innovation strategies to address our community’s health needs directly. With higher risks of lung cancer, it is essential to diagnose the disease early, since that is when treatment is most effective. Earlier diagnosis gives patients significantly more treatment options while reducing the need for major surgery, lengthy hospital stays and extended recoveries. To meet those needs, we acquired and combined advanced 3D imaging, roboticassisted ION lung biopsy technology and a coordinated multidisciplinary model of care. Through these innovations, physicians can now biopsy lung nodules as small as an apple seed through minimally invasive outpatient procedures. Similar procedures in the past required overnight stays. Patients also have the opportunity to move from their biopsy to the multi-disciplinary clinic within one week, significantly reducing the time and cost it takes to find, schedule and attend follow-up appointments. As a result, nearly 40% of all lung cancers diagnosed at Frederick Health are now identified at Stage I, compared to the national average of about 27%. While implementing advanced robotic technology was a key factor, combining it with the multidisciplinary care model that enables our patients to move efficiently from diagnosis to treatment is what delivered this outcome. These results demonstrate that innovation should be evaluated by outcomes, not the acquisition of innovative technology alone. This is an important principle for business leaders to keep in mind, regardless of industry. The same principle applies to cardiovascular care. Historically, some Frederick Health Hospital patients requiring the highest-risk cardiac interventions had to be transferred outside the community to receive advanced treatment. While transfers are sometimes unavoidable, they can introduce delays, increase costs and create additional stress for patients and families. Beginning in March 2026, we introduced Impella®, the world's smallest heart pump, allowing more complex cardiac procedures to be performed locally. Supported by the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology guidelines as a Class 2A recommended therapy, Impella has been shown to reduce the risk of death in severe heart attack patients by up to 71%.
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Dr. Maurice Smith, thoracic surgeon and chief of medical staff at Frederick Health, operates trackpad on Ion Device.
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Frederick Health team members inspect the Impella device. Once again, the technology we implemented is only part of the story. The broader value lies in strengthening our entire system. This access to local, timely, high-quality care keeps patients in Frederick County, minimizing disruption for families. From these two examples, a key takeaway for business leaders in any sector is that innovation should be driven by local data, not industry trends. Organizations
Photos courtesy of Frederick Health
create the greatest value when they understand the unique needs of the communities they serve. New tools alone rarely deliver transformational results; the focus should be on making those results sustainable by integrating new technology with people,
Dr. Cheryl Cioffi is president and CEO of Frederick Health, the leading healthcare provider for Frederick County. A Frederick County native, she advanced from CNA to CEO in her 30-year career and remains an active community leader focused on innovation, compassionate patient care and community well-being.
improved workflows and culture. Healthcare will continue to evolve rapidly and the organizations that lead effectively are the ones that remain disciplined about solving real community issues while continually listening and adapting to the needs of the communities they serve. SPONSORED CONTENT
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Frederick Business Quarterly 21
Ilustration courtesy of Greenberg Gibbons
22 Frederick Business Quarterly
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Frederick Brickworks redevelopment poised to add $181 million in annual business sales to the city By Molly Fellin Spence
Fall 2026
Frederick Business Quarterly 23
The Brickworks Development
S
outh Frederick is in the middle of one of the largest building booms in the city's history. Cranes now rise over both the long-dormant Frederick Brickworks property and the in-progress Marriott Downtown Frederick Hotel & Conference Center along Carroll Creek, a wave of vertical construction that is fundamentally altering the look and feel of the city — and for the local business community, the numbers behind it are hard to ignore. Once complete, the Frederick Brickworks redevelopment is projected to generate $181 million in annual business sales, produce $7.6 million in local tax revenues, and support roughly 5,600 total jobs — a mix of 4,300 construction positions and 1,300 permanent ones. Site work began in July on the 65acre parcel along South and East streets, marking active construction on what stands as one of the largest development projects the city has ever reviewed. The $450-million-plus undertaking, led by developer Greenberg Gibbons, will convert the long-industrial property into a mixeduse town center at one of the main entry points to Frederick's downtown. The scale is substantial: up to 1,260 residential units and roughly 130,000 square feet of commercial and retail space are planned across the site. Initial construction is concentrated on the commercial anchor zone, which will include more than 73,000 square feet of retail space anchored by Whole Foods Market. A 3-to-5 story mixed-use building rising alongside and above that retail hub will add roughly 340 multi-family residential units. Other confirmed tenants include Shake Shack, First Watch, honeygrow and Dave's Hot Chicken, with additional businesses expected to sign on. Phase 1's residential core is targeted for completion in late 2028, bringing 332 rental apartments from developer Wormald and 320 for-sale townhomes from NVR Inc. Later phases will scale up density further, eventually reaching the master-planned cap of 1,260 homes, with the pace calibrated so that roadway, utility and pedestrian infrastructure can absorb the new population. continued page 26
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The Brickworks Development
Ilustration courtesy of Greenberg Gibbons
The $450-million-plus undertaking, led by developer Greenberg Gibbons, will convert the long-industrial property into a mixed-use town center at one of the main entry points to Frederick's downtown.
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Frederick Business Quarterly 25
For businesses along the corridor, the project's infrastructure commitments are as relevant as its housing and retail counts. Rather than undergo traditional the traditional Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance route, the developer will pay a fee into the Downtown Frederick Mobility Fee District, which will be applied to regional transit and roadway upgrades. Separately, the city is launching a major intersection safety project at East All Saints Street and
South East Street starting this fall, with a new traffic signal, updated accessible ramps and transit safety improvements expected to be complete by late 2027 to manage the corridor's added volume. Advocacy from local group East Frederick Rising also secured wider, multi-use paths and sidewalks — including 6-foot clearance standards — intended to keep the incoming residential traffic moving without relying solely on cars. Nearby, Harmon Park is slated for a
26 Frederick Business Quarterly
new 20-space parking lot, walking trails and basketball courts as part of the project's approval conditions, a move designed to centralize recreational traffic rather than push it onto neighborhood side streets. The site carries more than a century of industrial history relevant to the region's building trade. Frederick Brickworks opened on the property in 1891, drawn by rich clay deposits and access to the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, and went on to produce Fall 2026
Illustrations courtesy of Greenberg Gibbons
The Brickworks Development
The Brickworks Development
Harmon Park is slated for a new 20-space parking lot, walking trails and basketball courts as part of the project's approval conditions, a move designed to centralize recreational traffic rather than push it onto neighborhood side streets.
the "Frederick Reds" bricks still visible today in structures at Hood College. Brick manufacturing ended in 1946, though the company continued selling construction materials on-site until relocating to Monocacy Boulevard in 2007, where it still operates. The project's path to construction has run through years of municipal review. Frederick's Planning Commission approved the Brickworks Master Plan in October
2023, attaching nine conditions that include a 3-acre dedicated park within the project area and a requirement that each section receive environmental certification from the Maryland Department of the Environment before building permits are issued. A related zoning text amendment, already recommended for approval by the Planning Commission, remains pending before the City Council. Site work and grading are being
Fall 2026
managed by Pleasants Construction, with project plans still subject to change as the city's review process continues. Brickworks' full economic impact remains tied to a regulatory process that isn't finished, but for now, the cranes over South and East streets offer the clearest sign of how much of that promise is starting to take shape. 3
Frederick Business Quarterly 27
Starting or Growing a Business in Frederick? Contact the City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development for free assistance and information regarding: • Business Start-Up Guidance • Site Selection Assistance • Grants & Incentives • Licensing & Permitting • Community Connections • Promotional Support • Local Data, and More!
111 Council Street | 301-600-6360 businessinfrederick.com FOLLOW: BusinessinFrederick 28 Frederick Business Quarterly
Fall 2026
Economic Development at Work: Helping Frederick’s Businesses Grow By Mary Ford-Naill
F
rom Sept. 28 to Oct. 2, economic developers across Maryland will celebrate the 15th annual Economic Development Week. Here in Frederick, you may see our team at groundbreakings, ribbon cuttings, business anniversaries and community events — but that’s only a small part of our role. Economic development supports the business community by increasing investment, expanding the tax base and growing employment opportunities for residents.
What is economic development? In Frederick, economic development means helping our community thrive. We work to strengthen existing businesses, attract new ones, grow jobs, increase investment and ensure Frederick remains a vibrant, resilient place to live and work. At its core, economic development improves quality of life by creating opportunities for residents and fostering an environment where businesses can succeed.
Why connect with local, regional, and state economic developers?
Background photo courtesy of Visit Frederick. Photos at right courtesy of Frederick Economic Development
You don’t have to navigate growth alone. By partnering with our team, businesses gain access to: • Insight into Frederick’s business landscape and help troubleshooting challenges, • Connections to state and regional partners offering funding, training and incentives, • Guidance on permitting, site selection, workforce development and strategic introductions, • Opportunities businesses may overlook, such as grants, tax credits, loan programs and industry-specific resources. Economic developers are your advocates. We help you save time and get connected to the proper tools and people.
What programs and resources are available to businesses? Frederick offers support for businesses at every stage, both locally and through regional and statewide partners. Resources include: • Business attraction and expansion services, • Entrepreneurship programs (pitch competitions, accelerators), • Workforce development tools (training grants, hiring pipelines, job fairs), • Technical assistance (business planning, marketing, access to capital), • Loan and incentive programs, • Tax credits for renovations, job creation and energy efficiency, • Small business counseling, • Networking opportunities across Frederick’s business ecosystem. At the city level, we also provide hands-on help with permitting, site selection, market data and strategic connections.
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Frederick Business Quarterly 29
Is there a cost for these programs? Most of our services — including business counseling, introductions and technical assistance — are free. Some state or federal programs may require applications or have eligibility criteria, but our team helps businesses understand those requirements. When fees exist, they are typically tied to specialized financing or external programs, not to access our support.
Can economic developers help if I only have a business idea? Absolutely. Many entrepreneurs come to us early in their planning process. You don’t need a finished business plan to start a conversation. We can connect you to: • Start-up counseling • Business planning resources • Partners such as the SBDC, MWBC, SCORE, and local accelerator programs Think of us as a friendly starting point; we help you move from idea to action.
If I’m already in business, is it too late to reach out? Never. Many strong Frederick companies come to us long after opening their doors. We help established businesses: • Navigate expansions, • Solve permitting or workforce challenges, • Identify new incentives or funding, • Explore growth opportunities, • Improve facilities, operations or visibility. As we often say: the sooner the better—but it’s never too late.
Frederick’s economic development work is powered by strong partnerships across the community. By collaborating daily with local organizations, we provide businesses with the insight, resources and support they need to grow and thrive. This spirit of partnership drives meaningful outcomes for entrepreneurs and employers at every stage.
Congratulations to economic developers across Maryland!
Mary Ford-Naill is the Manager of Economic Development for the City of Frederick, where she leads efforts to attract and retain businesses across diverse industries. She holds a BA and MBA from Hood College and is a graduate of the Executive Program of Leadership Maryland (2023) and Leadership Frederick County (2003). Mary has over 30 years of experience in commercial and residential real estate and has also owned her own business. Passionate about community and service, she thrives on fostering long-term, collaborative relationships.
Connect with the City of Frederick’s Economic Development team: www.businessinfrederick.com | 301.600.6360 | businessinfrederick@ cityoffrederickmd.gov SPONSORED CONTENT
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Background photo courtesy of Visit Frederick. Photo at far left by Cody Cervenka/Crvnka Photography; all other photos courtesy of Frederick Economic Development.
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Frederick Business Quarterly 31
IMPACT: Designed to Learn
Designed for Community By Naomi Pearce 32 Frederick Business Quarterly
Photo by Dr. ChaCha Hudson
The SEWcial Café:
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IMPACT
O
The SEWcial Café, located at 306 W. Patrick St., is so much more than just a place to sew. Hudson offers an ambitious lineup of experiences, from four progressive levels of sewing classes, to the SEWcialite Membership, which includes open studio hours with access to equipment and a workspace where members can work on their own sewing projects. She even hosts Sew and Sip parties during which attendees can enjoy specialty mocktails and sew a simple project. The SEWcial Café is an expression of Hudson’s passion for fashion, and an outgrowth of her commitment and outreach as an educator. Her focus is on advocacy for inclusivity and adaptive clothing, designed with hidden modifications to make dressing easier and more comfortable for people with limited mobility, dexterity challenges, disabilities or sensory sensitivities. The community Hudson fosters at The SEWcial Café extends beyond its walls. The one-woman dynamo also conducts workshops, seminars, and presents lectures on sewing, inclusive and adaptive fashion in the Frederick community, such as a recent event at the Delaplaine. And this is in addition to her position as an adjunct professor at Syracuse University, teaching fashion communication, and performing as a research consultant with Iowa State University. Hudson is a mostly self-taught sewist. At 12 years old she enrolled in sewing classes, but was dropped after missing three classes, due to the program’s strict, no excuses policy. But Hudson persevered, using the foundational knowledge she had gained, she kept sewing, teaching herself as much as she could from other resources,
The SEWcial Café is an expression of Hudson’s passion for fashion, and an outgrowth of her commitment and outreach as an educator, which also includes advocacy for inclusivity and adaptive wear.
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Photos by Dr. ChaCha Hudson
ne of the newest maker spaces in Frederick, The SEWcial Café, is a community sewing space founded by Dr. ChaCha Hudson for women to explore and expand their creativity through sewing. “I want this to be a place where women can feel comfortable and safe, no matter where they are in their sewing journey, whether beginners with no prior sewing experience to those with more advanced skills,” Hudson says.
Fall 2026
Photos by Dr. ChaCha Hudson
IMPACT
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IMPACT
making clothes for herself and others and putting on fashion shows. While pursuing her masters degree at the University of Delaware, Hudson opened the first The SEWcial Café in Philadelphia. She used her own savings, contributions from supporters and founding members, as well as awards from the university’s Hen Hatch entrepreneurial startup funding competitions ($1,000 as a 2018 semifinalist and $8,400 as a 2019 finalist). COVID forced her to close in 2020. As part of the closing process, she made thousands of masks, most of which she donated to hospitals. She also sold masks to individuals, gave away her inventory of fabric and elastic and sold much of her equipment. Then, an unfortunate sewing-related accident involving a rotary cutter derailed the plans she had for navigating through
COVID, and she spent a year physically and emotionally recovering, wondering if she would be able to sew again. But nothing stops Hudson for long. She learned early on that when you have a goal and a plan, if you step forward, doors will open. After healing from her injury, Hudson moved to New York in 2021 to teach at Syracuse University’s College of Visual and Performing Arts for three years, then pursued her PhD through Iowa State University. She later moved to Frederick to be closer to family, and rented an historic building on West Patrick Street for her research space while she completed her doctorate. And that is where The SEWcial Café was reborn, almost from scratch and this time fully self-funded.
At just under 2,000 square feet, with room for eight to 10 participants – it’s a much smaller area than the almost 3,000-square-foot warehouse space of the original. The two-story building offers homey coziness, making the lesson and coworking sewing space feel more like gathering in a friend’s house to do something fun and creative. Having already run the business in another state, Hudson was able to ease right back in, but faced the challenges of relaunching in a new community. As a newcomer, she was unfamiliar with the programs and resources offered by the City of Frederick and Frederick County, and was uncertain of the size and needs of her target market. She joined networking organizations like Women 2 Women mentoring and the continued page 39
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Photos by Dr. ChaCha Hudson
But nothing stops Hudson for long. She learned early on that when you have a goal and a plan, if you step forward, doors will open.
Photo by Dr. ChaCha Hudson
IMPACT
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Top and bottom photos by Dr. ChaCha Hudson; inset photo by Cody Cervenka/Crvnka Photography
IMPACT
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IMPACT
Top photo by Marie Rose Creative Co.; inset photo by Dr. ChaCha Hudson
Husdon soft-launched in November 2025, held her grand opening in June 2026, and entered the S.H.E. Week pitch competition in August 2026, winning both the $5,000 Growth Stage Prize and the $500 People’s Choice Award. Frederick Chamber of Commerce, and also reached out to her personal network via social media. She posted in the Everything Frederick Facebook group, offering free sewing classes, allowing her to chat with local women about their sewing experience and desires as well as the creative and sewing community at large. The women said they wanted time and space for themselves to create, wanted to make their own clothes that fit better than anything they could find in stores, or wanted to fulfill a dream of being a fashion designer and make up for missed opportunities. Husdon soft-launched in November 2025, held her grand opening in June 2026, and entered the S.H.E. Week pitch competition in August 2026, winning both
the $5,000 Growth Stage Prize and the $500 People’s Choice Award. While she is in no rush to move to another location, eventually she’d love to have more space to give the close-knit SEWcial community extra room to work and grow. The dream is an ADA accessible place easy to access by foot and public transit, preferably in the Downtown Frederick area, with large floor-to-ceiling windows for natural light, hardwood floors (because as any sewist knows, pins and needles get lost in carpeting), modular space that can be customized for use and rearranged as needed, gallery and fashion show space, dedicated open space for seminars and an area for a fabric shop and storage. She also looks forward to the possibility of opening multiple locations in the future,
Fall 2026
hiring teachers from among alumni of her program, and “working on the business, not in the business,” as she expands her educational outreach. But for now, Hudson is exploring local business development resources and continues to design learning opportunities in fashion and sewing for The SEWcial Café community as well as the Frederick community in general. 3
i For more information The SEWcial Café thesewcialcafe.com F facebook.com/thesewcialcafe d @ thesewcialcafe
Frederick Business Quarterly 39
Economic Impact of the Arts By Carmen Zdanis
W
hen people attend a performance, visit a gallery, purchase artwork or participate in an arts event, their spending often extends beyond the event itself.
They may dine at a local restaurant, shop at a store nearby, stay in a hotel
or visit other attractions in the community. The arts are an important part of Frederick County’s economy. They contribute not only to the cultural identity of our community, but also to tourism, small business growth and employment. Events such as the Frederick Festival of the Arts, artist exhibitions and Sky Stage performances bring residents and visitors into downtown, leading to good business opportunities and sales. When you support arts events it means you are also supporting entrepreneurs, independent artists, venues, nonprofits and small businesses that serve the community.
Local arts organizations, galleries, artists, and theaters Frederick has an incredibly diverse arts scene. Aside from the Frederick Arts Council, some of the other arts organizations include: The Delaplaine Arts Center, The Weinberg Center, New Spire Arts, Maryland Ensemble Theatre and many others. You don’t have to look far to find artwork or creative events to attend in Frederick County, because there is always something going on!
Upcoming Performances & Exhibitions Frederick Arts Council has a lot of exciting events coming up as it celebrates 50 Years of Creative Community. One of the biggest is FAC’s 50th Anniversary Gala. The event will feature singing by “American Idol” contestant Rae Boyd and a dance performance by the Weatherpeople and halfMAD Dance troupe, as well as a silent auction and an installation by artist John Connors. Many previous board members who served over the past five decades will attend to be recognized at the event. FAC is also celebrating the 10th anniversary of Sky Stage, marking a decade of bringing live music, performances, art and creative experiences to Downtown Frederick. Additionally, FAC has a literary magazine in the works, with guest editor Professor Dorian Elizabeth Knapp, program director of the creative writing MFA at Hood College. One of the biggest and most exciting projects yet is the launch of a FAC record label. The first release will be of two singles on vinyl and digital posts to streaming platforms from talented artist Libby Knight.
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Economic Impact of the Arts, cont'd.
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Beyond FAC programming, there are exhibitions, theater productions, concerts, festivals, artist markets and other events happening across Frederick County year-round. FAC encourages residents to explore local arts calendars and follow local arts organizations to discover what is happening throughout the community.
How local businesses can incorporate and purchase local art Businesses can incorporate local art into offices, restaurants, hotels, retail spaces and other public areas by purchasing original artwork, commissioning artists, displaying photographs or sculpture or working with artists on murals and installations for their businesses. Local art can also be used as gifts for others, at special events, or for recognizing an individual.
Tips for businesses on finding local artists and starting an art collection When it comes to starting an arts collection, start small and think about what fits your business. You should take note of the space that you have available, your brand image and the type of experience you want to create for employees and customers. Businesses can discover local artists through galleries, exhibitions, festivals, artist markets, social media and arts organizations. Aside from purchasing artwork for spaces, businesses can sponsor artists, hire performers for events, and commission murals. The Frederick Arts Council is a great resource for learning about artists and opportunities throughout the county.
FAC's role in connecting artists, businesses, and the community FAC serves as a resource for the arts community throughout Frederick County. The organization helps connect artists and performers with the public and local events. In other words, FAC builds relationships among artists, arts organizations, businesses and residents. FAC contributes to many areas of the creative realm in Frederick County. These efforts include Community Arts Development Grants, Arts in Education Grants, Individual Artist Awards, public art initiatives, Art in the Park, the Frederick Festival of the Arts and Sky Stage events. The goal of FAC is to create an environment where artists can thrive and where the community understands the true value of the arts. SPONSORED CONTENT
Fall 2026
Carmen Zdanis is a communications and events professional with experience in arts, media, marketing, and community engagement. She is currently the Communications and Events Associate at the Frederick Arts Council, where she helps promote local artists, arts programming, and cultural initiatives throughout Frederick County.
Frederick Business Quarterly 43
CORPORATE OPPORTUNITIES AT THE YMCA
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Fall Home Prep:
A Frederick Contractor's Checklist for Winter-Ready Homes by Sandra Hofmeister
A
t A&S Construction, we've walked through hundreds of Frederick County homes each October, and the story is always the same: Maryland's foliage is stunning, but our weather doesn't wait for anyone. One week it's humid and 80 degrees, the next we're waking up to frost on the windshield. I've built my business on helping neighbors get ahead of that shift instead of scrambling once the first freeze hits. Here's where I tell my own clients to start.
Background photo courtesy of A&S Construction; at right: istockphoto.com/ Johnrob, Photographer, Elenathewise
Start with your exterior envelope. Heavy fall rains and dense leaf drop clog gutters fast here, so clear the debris and make sure your downspouts extend at least 5 feet from the foundation — that alone prevents a lot of basement dampness calls we get every spring. While you're up there, check your roof and flashing, especially around chimneys and valleys, for cracking or lifting from summer storms; a small leak now becomes a much bigger repair once freezing rain gets into it. Then walk your windows and doors — drafts are an energy bill you're paying every single day, so reseal with exterior-grade caulk and swap out worn weatherstripping. Look at your systems. Schedule furnace and heat pump service before the first frost, and replace air filters now so the unit isn't straining unnecessarily. Disconnect garden hoses and drain your outdoor spigot lines before a hard freeze bursts a pipe you forgot about. If you use a fireplace, get a certified chimney sweep out to clear creosote and check the damper before you light that first cozy fire. Don't forget the yard. Early fall is the best window in Maryland to aerate compacted soil and overseed with cool-season grass like tall fescue. And trim back any dead or heavy branches hanging over your roofline or power lines now, before ice weighs them down later this winter. None of this has to be a solo project. Whether it's a full roof inspection, gutter installation or replacement, a new deck built to handle our freezethaw cycles, or siding that needs a closer look before winter, our team at A&S Construction handles it all — inspection, installation, routine maintenance and repair — at prices that won't make you wince. Reach out before the first freeze, and let's make sure your home is ready for whatever this winter brings. SPONSORED CONTENT
Fall 2026
Sandra Hofmeister. owner of A&S Construction, is Frederick's only bilingual, female licensed general contractor. Born in Lima, Peru, to a Peruvian mother and Spanish diplomat father, she learned early that honesty and quality work build community. A 2024 Leadership Frederick County graduate, she was named 2022 and 2023 Trades Person of the Year.
Frederick Business Quarterly 45
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ThurmontMainStreet.com 46 Frederick Business Quarterly
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