Alison Wexler
President
Alecks Moss
Vice President
Toby Schermerhorn
Secretary/Treasurer
Nina Carr
Kai Hagen
Armando Martinez
Jaime McKay
Julie Richards Directors
Tim Roberts
Staff-Board Liaison
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Welcome to Summer. We hope you are as excited about this season as we are.
At The Common Market we have some wonderful activities planned to help you on your wellness journey. Wellness is not just about great food choices. It is also about finding the parts of your life that bring you joy and keep your mind and body active.
In early May, we are having one of our signature events, Loco for Local, where we get to celebrate and sample some of the best offerings from our local suppliers. If you have ever been on the fence about buying one of our local products, this might be your chance to taste it and speak directly with the people who make it. In Mid-May, we celebrate the Anniversary of our Route 85 Store. Be on the lookout for specials and curated events.
June is always a crowd favorite. It is an OAD (Owner Appreciation
Days) discount month. Please accept our thanks for being a member by taking 10% off a onetime shopping trip. At the end of June, please join us as we host our inaugural Community Yoga and Wellness Celebration at the Route 85 store. This is an opportunity to try one of our free yoga classes and meet/reconnect with our local wellness community.
Summer weather brings an opportunity for outdoor family get-togethers and celebrations. Please check out our nonalcoholic beverage offerings. We have the largest selection in the region. Pair up your drinks with our local fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and breads for a signature charcuterie board.
We hope to see you at one of our events celebrating you and the community we have all created for ourselves.
In Cooperation,
Toby Schermerhorn Board Secretary & Treasurer, The Common Market Board of Directors
Owen Baker
What brought you to the Co-op?
I have a friend who had been working at the Co-op for a few years before I started, and they told me many good things about working here! My mother has been an Owner for most of my life and I grew up going with her to the Route 85 store, and I've always loved the Co-op values!
What is your favorite meal to make?
I've become (kinda) well-known for my beef stew. I love how simple it is to make and how great it is in the winter.
When you have 30 minutes of free time, what do you do?
I will read and take a walk with my dogs, check on my garden, or just stand outside for a while.
If you were a fruit or vegetable, what would you be and why?
I'd be a bell pepper. They're super versatile and my absolute favorite vegetable to snack on.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
To make a good baguette. I am slowly getting better at making sourdough, and baguettes are my next challenge.
What's the best meal you've ever eaten?
As I'm writing this, it was last night. My wife made turkey with a blueberry reduction and it was INCREDIBLE. She's the best cook I know!
What's something always in your pantry/fridge? Flour and yeast!
Brie
Café Service Associate
What brought you to the Co-op?
I was looking for a work environment that focuses on health and community.
What do you like best about your job?
I love how everyone here genuinely works with each other.
When you have 30 minutes of free time, what do you do?
Recharge. Whether that means sipping something warm, reading, or just sitting in peace.
If you could learn anything, what would it be? Anything is possible, much more to learn in the coming future if fortunate enough, everything is attainable.
If you were a fruit or vegetable, what would you be and why?
Lemon, bright and a little zesty.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Living a slower, more intentional life.
What is something always in your pantry/fridge? Olives!
Survey Says...
Kristen
Cook
What brought you to the Co-op?
All the good it does for the community
What do you like best about your job? Working with an amazing team
What is your favorite meal to make? Any and all baked goods
When you have 30 minutes of free time, what do you do?
Draw and paint
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be? Scuba Diving
What is something always in your pantry/fridge?
Yerba mate iced tea
JOIN OUR TEAM!
The Common Market is hiring for various positions. Scan the code to apply today!
If you're a regular shopper at the Co-op, there's a good chance you've received a Customer Survey at checkout. We've been collecting this information for over a year, and it's been helping us discover what you love about the Co-op, and what we need to work on. We'd like to thank you, our Customers, for filling out these surveys honestly, and especially for recognizing our staff members and their stellar customer service skills! Here are a few of your responses:
"Conny is always friendly, efficient, and knowledgeable about the products."
"Vic does a tremendous job of keeping the bulk section clean, stocked, and organized. Plus he is super helpful and knowledgeable."
"Isaiah is consistently friendly, approachable, and always eager to assist. His willingness to help makes every visit a pleasant experience."
"My shopping experiences at the Common Market have been incredibly calm. The space is well laid out. Although this is a busy store, there are never the feelings of frustration that I experience at other stores. The quality and freshness of food items is very good."
"Our cashier, Cierra, was, as always, professional, polite, and extremely helpful. "
"Serinah was just pleasant to speak with and still kept the line moving."
"I always appreciate the seamless experience of service at the Route 85 store. You feel like you have a team taking care of you as your order is handed off from one person to the next. Kudos to Briar, Wren, and Sierra!"
"Mimi is always so friendly and accommodating! She was quick to open a register when I needed help. She's a great part of the shopping experience."
"Cody is always very helpful and full of energy. As a matter of fact, all of your employees are wonderful."
"Alex was friendly and courteous. I appreciate the care he puts into packing my groceries."
Your Summer Skincare Guide
The sun is shining stronger, the days are getting longer, and the air is heating up! It’s time to get outside and catch some rays. But not so fast – your skincare routine may need some tweaking in order to protect your skin from harmful UV rays and to keep it glowing all summer long.
Maintaining a consistent, year-long skincare regimen will allow your skin to transition smoothly between seasons. If you’re looking for easy ways to prepare your skin for the upcoming hot summer days, read on for tips and product recommendations you will find in our expansive Wellness Department!
KEEP ON MOISTURIZING
Yes, you still need to moisturize your skin when the weather heats up! In the winter, our main priority is to combat the dry air and heal chapped, flaking skin by using thicker face and body moisturizers. As the air becomes more humid, it’s easier for the skin to maintain moisture, but many of our faces may become more oily as we sweat. Using heavier moisturizers as you would in the winter months can lead to more oil production and more clogged pores. Stick with lightweight formulations without added oils for clearer, moisturized skin.
SUN PROTECTION, SUN PROTECTION, SUN PROTECTION!
No matter the season, if you are heading outside, protecting your skin with sunscreen is a must. Although you may not think about it, skin aging UVA rays are always present – winter, spring, summer or fall. Mineral based sunscreens are formulated without toxic chemicals and can be great for the skin. It’s recommended to choose a sunscreen with at least 30 SPF.
Whether you’re headed out without makeup or prefer a glam look, many skincare brands have moisturizers formulated with SPF. If you have dry or sensitive skin, check out Acure’s Seriously Soothing Day Cream with SPF 30, formulated with blue tansy and niacinamide to soothe skin while blocking
harmful rays. Make sure to always apply a facial sunscreen, even under makeup!
Looking for body sunscreens good for you and the family? We carry a wide selection of mineral based sunscreens with strong sun protection leaving out harsh chemical UV blockers.
For the active family, look for sport formulas. Babo’s Sport Sticks come in 30 or 50 SPF and are easy to throw in a purse or backpack. The Babo Sheer Spray Sunscreen SPF 30 is easy to apply and is water resistant for up to 80 minutes. Another convenient option is Attitue Sunly Plastic-Free Mineral Sunscreen Stick. Badger also offers a Clear Zinc Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 that’s water resistant for up to 80 minutes and great for the whole family, whether swimming, surfing, or playing around.
Don’t forget your lips! Try Badger Lip Balms with SPF 15 - perfect for moisturizing your lips while protecting them from the sun!
LIGHTWEIGHT GLAM
You love to look your best throughout the year, but sometimes makeup can be heavy or have added oils that don’t withstand the heat. Luckily, many beauty brands have lightweight mineral formulas or creams that stay in place, and some contain SPF to protect your face while making you look flawless.
Andalou Naturals 1000 Roses CC Cream with SPF 30 comes in two shades and is perfect for sensitive skin. Hydrated skin with sheer mineral coverage and sun protection for a flawless complexion.
Mad Hippie offers several options for your face, including a lightweight Daily Protective Serum, a Hydrating Facial SPF, and a Luminizing Facial SPF - all with clean ingredients so you can put your best face forward!
SOOTHE THAT BURN
Stayed out in the sun too long or forgot to apply your sunscreen? Try Alba Botanica After Sun Gel to cool and soothe your sunburn.
KID'S FORMULAS
Young, delicate skin is more susceptible to sunburn and long-term damage from UV radiation. For kids and babies, Look for sunscreens formulated with gentle, non-toxic ingredients, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, to minimize the risk of skin irritation. Thinkbaby SPF 50 is safe and gentle on baby’s delicate skin, and its' Zinc Oxide formula provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. Protect kids on the move with Badger Kid's Sunscreen Face Stick, ready to keep up with long days of summer camp and beach swimming.
EXTRA CARE
While skin care products are important in keeping skin hydrated, healthy, and protected from the sun, there’s nothing better than drinking plenty of water during the summer months. It keeps skin
moisturized from the inside out and will help prevent dehydration and heat exhaustion.
Clothing choice is also important while spending time outside. Choosing lightweight clothing keeps you cool and protects exposed skin. Many companies have designed clothing that is rated to protect from harmful rays. Adding hats and sunglasses to your daily wardrobe will also help shield and protect your face and eyes.
It’s time to get outside and enjoy the warm weather to come. Protect your skin, and don’t forget to stop by our Wellness Department for your summer skincare needs!
Article written by Morganne Klein & Kayleigh Montgomery-Morris
Functional Foods
In the Mix: Elevate your Wellness Routine with These Simple Additions to Everyday Foods & Drinks!
If you're looking to boost your morning latte, afternoon smoothie, or evening winddown drink, consider these supplements!
Kuli Kuli latte mixes:
Kuli Kuli's superfood lattes harness the world's most powerful plants with function-forward, trending ingredients. The Matcha Moringa Superfood latte can enhance mental focus and offer a gentle energy boost. Mix this powder with milk or hot water for a tasty alternative to coffee. Also look for Ube Coconut for heart health, and Strawberries & Creme for digestive support.
Kokora Adaptogenic Drink Mixes:
Made with organic and regeneratively grown ashwagandha, mushrooms, and other adaptogenic herbs, these unique drink powders support a healthy stress and immune response, and could be the perfect addition to your functional foods journey. Blends include Roasted Kokora Lift for energy and digestion, 7 Mushroom Mocha for mental clarity and energy, Immune
Power for daily immune defense, and Adapt and thrive for energy and stress resilience.
Om Mushroom Superfood Powders:
Om creates versatile, full-spectrum organic mushroom powders that easily blend into your daily routine. Each scoop brings functional mushroom benefits right to your cup, recipe, or smoothiehelping you achieve your wellness goals. Consider Lion's Mane for memory and focus, Turkey Tail for immune health and the micorbiome, Cordyceps for endurance and recovery, and a Master Blend featuring ashwagandha.
Gaia Herbs Golden Milk:
Golden Milk is a traditional Ayurvedic drink revered for its antioxidant and anti-inflamatory properties. This warm, spiced drink is made with turmeric and spices mixed with milk. Gaia Herbs Golden Milk blend is made with organic turmeric, ashwagandha, dates, and cardamom and can be mixed with the milk of your choice for a delicious and comforting addition to your morning or evening.
A Few Fresh Finds at the Co-op!
8. BIOptemizers Dietary Supplements
Optimize your gut health, energy, digestion and more with BIOptemizers dietary supplements. Available in capsule and powder form.
9. Co-op Branded Gear
Show your love and support for cooperative grocers with these great, t-shirts, hoodies and tote bags! Available at both Common Market locations.
10. Illume Seasonal Aromatic Diffusers
With a modern shape and grounding white ceramic collar, this reed diffuser is refillable with their 6 oz. alcohol-free diffuser refill which includes just enough oil for two longlasting uses.
11. HiBAR Solid Shampoo & Conditioner
HiBAR shampoo bars and conditioner bars are formulated to be as good for your hair as they are for the planet. That means the same premium natural ingredients you find in professional-grade hair care sold in high-end salons. But no sulfates, no phthalates, no parabens, no silicones, no cruelty, ever—and nothing even close to soap.
12. Giovanni Pure Castor Oil & Leave-in Conditioner
Hydrate, smooth and protect your locks with these smoothing castor oil products.
We're always on the lookout for new items! If you have suggestion for us, visit www.commonmarket.coop/connect/new-item-suggestion/ and fill out the form.
How to Eat Local Year Round: Strawberry Freezer Jam with Eat Local Frederick
Wednesday, May 28 | 6 - 8:30PM @ 7th Street Community Room
$120 ($60 for Owners)
Do you love the taste of peak-season strawberries but wish you could enjoy them all year long? Join us for the kickoff class in our How to Eat Locally Year-Round series and learn how to transform fresh, local strawberries into homemade strawberry freezer jam—no canning experience required! This class is designed for beginners and seasoned home cooks alike. You’ll watch a live demo of the entire jam-making process, from prepping the berries to sealing the jars, and discover just how simple it is to preserve the best flavors of summer—without the hassle of water-bath canning.
Green Burials with Michael Judd [OFFSITE]
Saturday, May 31 | 1 - 4PM
@ Morris Orchard Natural Burial Site
$10
Are you curious about Home Funeral and Green Burial practices/options in Maryland? Join Michael Judd as he invites you to consider choices for end-of-life care, home funeral, home burial, and green burial practices. Michael will share information, resources, and personal experiences as he honors the wise traditions of natural burial and the relevance of these choices for us today. Talk and tour at the Morris Orchard, Frederick county’s first natural burial site which is centered in a chestnut orchard, so there will be an open fire and roasted chestnuts!
June
How to Eat Local Year Round: Intro to Canning (Dill Pickles) with Eat Local Frederick
Sunday, June 8 | 11AM - 2PM
@ 7th Street Community Room
$65
Learn how to preserve fresh, local produce all year round by mastering the art of canning! In this demo, you’ll discover the fundamentals of water bath canning while making classic dill pickles. We’ll cover everything from selecting the best ingredients to understanding food safety guidelines and achieving the perfect crispness in every jar. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, you’ll leave with the knowledge and confidence to start preserving your own seasonal bounty at home.
NEW INSTRUCTOR
Highlight!
Katie Powderly
Founder of 'Eat Local Frederick'
Katie Powderly is the founder of Eat Local Frederick, a civic pride campaign and educational initiative connecting the Frederick, Maryland community to local farmers and food traditions. With more than a decade of experience in the natural foods industry and over 20 years of hands-on practice in gardening, canning, baking, and preserving, Katie is passionate about teaching people how to live closer to the land—and each other.
Eat Local Frederick started in 2016 as a way to build community through food. By offering classes, seasonal food activities, and outdoor experiences, the project helps reinvest in the local economy, preserve agricultural traditions, and promote better public health through sustainable living. Katie’s work has been featured at The Frederick City Market, where she sold Eat Local Frederick’s signature Frederick Farmers' Market posters celebrating the region’s food culture.
“If you know me, you know I’m a big believer in tradition—whether it’s music, food, or how we gather as a community,” says Katie. “A lot of my work is about carrying forward the wisdom of those who came before us, and creating space for connection in the present. These classes are about reviving the skills our grandparents lived by—not out of nostalgia, but because they still matter and make way more practical sense than many of the methods of today. When we make these traditions feel accessible and meaningful again, we’re not just preserving the past—we’re shaping a more resilient future.”
The Eat Local Year Round class series includes hands-on learning, small class sizes, and thoughtfully designed take-home materials. From strawberry freezer jam to crafting homemade skin care products like balms and salves to learning water bath canning by making pickles, each class helps participants build practical skills for living more sustainably—and more joyfully—in every season.
Learn more at eatlocalfrederick.com.
Photo credit: Sean Reel
seeds
Small package, big benefits. Seeds are an amazing food!
Flax
Flaxseed contains fiber and omega-3 fatty acids that may help prevent heart disease and lower cholesterol. Grind whole flaxseed to get the most nutritional benefits. Mixed with water, ground flaxseed can serve as an egg substitute in baked goods.
Hemp
The mild, nutty flavor of hemp seeds complements grains, salads and meats. Mix them into veggie burgers or sprinkle on pasta in place of Parmesan cheese. Hemp seeds are a complete protein rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.
Sesame
From the Japanese condiment gomasio to Middle Eastern tahini, atop stir-fries and sauteed kale, sesame seeds have found a home in cuisines around the world. They’re rich in B vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Black and golden brown sesame seeds are unhulled, giving them a richer flavor than hulled white seeds.
Quinoa
A staple of Peruvian and Bolivian cuisine for centuries, this gluten-free grain alternative is a nutrient-dense powerhouse. Quinoa adds texture to brothy soups and leafy salads. Cooking quinoa in your choice of milk creates a hearty, hot breakfast cereal.
Sunflower
Nutty sunflower seeds are popular in granola bars and trail mix, on salads and as a snack at baseball games. They’re full of minerals and heart-healthy antioxidant vitamin E, which helps reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol.
Watermelon Chia Parfait
Serves: 6. Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes; 15 minutes active.
4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
1⁄2 cup chia seeds
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 1⁄2 cups vanilla yogurt
1 1⁄2 cups fresh raspberries Mint sprigs, for garnish
1. Put the watermelon cubes in a blender container and blend until smooth. Add chia seeds, honey and lemon and pulse until mixed. Transfer to a storage container and refrigerate until thickened, about an hour.
2. In six 8-ounce juice glasses or wine goblets, measure ¼ cup of the watermelon mixture, then top each with ¼ cup of yogurt and ¼ cup of watermelon, then top with ¼ cup raspberries.
3. Garnish with mint and serve.
Chia
Small but mighty, chia seeds are highly nutritious, full of protein, fiber, minerals, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. The texture of chia is unique — the seeds develop a jelly-like coating when soaked in liquid, as in the parfait above.
Double Chocolate Hemp Heart Cookies
22 cookies. Total time: 30 minutes; 15 minutes active.
2 cups almond flour
2 tablespoons cocoa
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1⁄2 teaspoon salt
1⁄2 cup coconut oil (refined), melted
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 large egg
1 cup chocolate chips
1⁄2 cup hemp hearts
1. Preheat the oven to 350 F. Line two sheet pans with parchment paper and reserve.
2. In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Whisk to mix, crushing any lumps of almond flour.
3. In a medium bowl, stir the coconut oil and sugar until smooth, then stir in the vanilla. Lightly beat the egg and stir in.
4. Scrape the wet mixture into the dry mixture and stir to mix well. Stir in the chocolate chips and hemp hearts.
5. Make 2 tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll into balls, and place on the prepared pans with 2 inches between the dough balls.
6. Dampen your palms and lightly flatten the dough to ¾-inch-thick disks.
7. Bake for 7 minutes, then reverse the position of the pans and bake for 7 minutes longer.
Shopper Reviews
Great organic focused store with fresh items and deal prices. Loved it
- Jeff H.
The Common Market is a great place to shop and is a community as well. As a vegan, I appreciate the numerous options available to me.
- Patrick S.
Enjoy 20% OFF all catering platters — every single day from May 12th to July 6th!
Perfect for Graduations, Mother's Day, Father’s Day, Memorial Day, and 4th of July parties.
Catering order forms will be available at the Café.