Issuu

F E B R UA RY 2 022 | TH E LO C A L LOV E I S S U E

DO YOU K NOW T HE EQUI T Y IN YOUR HOME? ARE YOU T HINK ING OF SELLING IN T HE NE X T 2-3 Y E AR S?

Should the time be now?

L E T ’ S F I N D YO U R D R E A M H O M E T O G E T H E R . C A L L M E T O D AY !

Welcome Home “I strongly recommend Margo and her team! M A R G O I S S I M P LY A M A Z I N G . S H E I S T H E M O S T R E S P O N S I V E , I N F O R M AT I V E , G EN U I N E, A N D H EL PFU L R E A LTO R ® I CO U L D H AV E E V ER WA N T ED.”

C: 301-524- 0999 M a r g o M i l l e r R e a l t o r. c o m Margo@CornerHouseRealty.com

Margo Miller ABR | CIPS | Green | GRI | MRP

TO P PR O D U C ER AWA R D W I N N ER

O: 443-499-3839 | CornerHouseRealty.com

SháEstheticsss for LIFE We offer a wide range of Para Medical services to treat skin conditions, slim and tone the body and beautify: CryoFacial, CryoSlimming, CryoToning, Hydrofacial, Chemical Peels, Lymphatic Compression, Lash Lifts, Brows Lamination & Tints and more! We specialize in treating Aging Skin, Melasma, Hyperpigmentation, Scarring and Acne. Mention Frederick Lifestyle for $100

OFF PACKAGES!

FO BE

Call now to schedule an appointment

Shaestheticsss.com | 240.608.4806 Sha@Shaestheticsss.com

V @Shaestheticsss B @Shaestheticsss20

INSIDE SOLA SUITE #32 5211 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick, MD 21704

Rooted in community.

Frederick’s only community-owned grocery store since 1974.

www.commonmarket.coop 301-663-3416

WELCOME TO MONOCACY CROSSING! Enjoy Contemporary American cuisine in a comfortable, elegant atmosphere. Upscale Dining Experience / Casual Patio Dining / Happy Hour

EXPERIENCE MONOCACY CROSSING THIS WINTER

WEDNESDAY NIGHTS Burgers + Brews

THURSDAY NIGHTS + ALL DAY SUNDAY $10 Off All Bottles of Wine

# F R E D E R I C KC O U N T YS T RO N G 4424A URBANA PIKE FREDERICK, MD 301-846-4204 / MONOCACYCROSSING.COM

LIFESTYLE LETTER

We Love Local!

February 2022 PUBLISHER

Amber Smith | Amber.Smith@CityLifestyle.com EDITOR

Kristen Wojdan | Kristen.Wojdan@CityLifestyle.com

As we celebrate Black History Month this February, we are filled with inspiration and gratitude for the incredible people who make our community strong and diverse. While curating this edition, we quickly realized we are barely scratching the surface on Black-owned businesses and organizations that are taking Frederick County to new heights. We see you. We appreciate you. And we respect you. Although we quickly ran out of pages, we are honored to present you with this snapshot of powerhouse individuals and businesses who are not only embedded in the framework of our community but also have influence at state, national and global levels. Their stories of resilience, creativity and innovation move and inspire us. We hope you are blessed and empowered by the pages ahead. We would also like to use this opportunity to express our appreciation to Yakabod, a leader in secure software development since 2001 and an organization with a passion to positively impact our community. Thank you for graciously opening up your award-winning space for our feature photo shoot! And, if you’ve ever walked (or roller-skated) through the halls of the old Frederick Towne Mall, you may recognize the brick and wood combo in our cover shot. For all you superfans out there, yes, it is Warehouse Cinemas! Thank you to our favorite top-of-the-line moviegoing experience for hosting our cover photo shoot. As we always say, once you go Warehouse, you can’t go back! Finally, readers, there is one more very important recognition I am thrilled to make. It is with great joy that I welcome Kristen Wojdan, Founder of Frederick Lifestyle, back to our growing team. Her heart and passion for her new role as Editor has us full of excitement and anticipation for what is to come. Thank you, Kristen, for bringing your love, talent and high level of excellence to our readers and the community at large! If you missed the announcement last month about our new #FREDERICKVOLUNTEERS initiative, turn to the bottom of page 9 to learn more. Let’s serve together! Enjoy the love, chocolate, flowers, college basketball and everything else that often comes along with the special month of February. Thank you for reading and we’ll see you around town!

ADMINISTR ATIVE DIR ECTOR

Alexis Kamasse | Alexis.Kamasse@CityLifestyle.com AD DESIGNER

Whitney Lockhart LAYOUT DESIGNER

Dani Moore CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Tiera Sumblin, Arliss Veldhuizen CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Rebecca Mitchell, Lesley Riley

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich CHIEF DIGITAL OFFICER Bruce Ianni DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AMBER SMITH, PUBLISHER @FREDERICKLIFESTYLE

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/FREDERICK |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Frederick Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Frederick area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Frederick Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

www.rebeccamitchellphotography.com

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2

inside the issue The Local Love Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Local Experiences

Giving Back

Local Limelight

Locals Only

Culinary Creations

Events

More Than A (Gourmet) Biscuit

Lesley Riley, Founder of Mama’s Biscuits, Gives Back to the Community

22 Celebrating Black-owned Businesses in Frederick

New and Established Business Leaders Share Why Frederick is the Place for Them

28 What Is Black?

It’s Complicated, But Dr. Jacqueline Douge Isn’t Shying Away from the Conversation

32 Dip, Eat and Enjoy!

Make Delicious Dessert for Your Valentine

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Rebecca Mitchell Many of the local business owners and leaders featured in this February 2022 “Love Local” edition of Frederick Lifestyle joined us for this special cover photo session at Warehouse Cinemas. WarehouseCinemas.com

FO O D + B EV ER AG E LO CA L S ERV IC E S

A RTS + C U LT U R E FO O D + B E V E R AG E

PRECISION + QUALITY YOU CAN TRUST HOME PROJECTS

R E N O VAT I O N S

HANDYMAN JOBS

SELLING + LISTING PREP

MHIC-01-116114

ARMY VETERAN OWNED & OPERATED

KYLE HARRIS

MARYLAND PROPERTY RENOVATIONS 301.880.4690

MPRRENO.COM

MPRRENO@GMAIL.COM

#FREDERICKVOLUNTEERS

Do you have a desire to make a difference in the Frederick community? Look for practical ways you can volunteer each month in our #FREDERICKVOLUNTEERS feature.

Biscuits and Blankets

Volunteer to be on a street team to give out Biscuits and Blankets (and other items in a care package) to the homeless community during the winter months. (Biscuits and Blankets is a part of Mama’s Biscuits’ Feeding Faith Initiative. Since their humble beginnings in 2015, they have been laser focused on their mission to serve the community. Lesley Riley started the “Feeding Faith Initiative” because sometimes we all need a little help!)

TO GET INVOLVED:

Visit https://mamabiscuit.com/contact-us or scan the QR code!

VB@FrederickLifestyle #FREDERICKVOLUNTEERS

Spread the love and inspire others by tagging us and using the hashtag when you volunteer! FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R E D E R I C K

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen in the city. 1

@BUSINESSINFREDERICK

@GALLERY322FREDERICK

2 @VELVETLOUNGEBOUTIQUE

@NAYLORVISIONSFILMS

@ATANGWASTHERE

@IBELIEVEINMEINC

@TRRESTAURANT

1: Stunning “m.s.j.” oil painting by artist Karen Winston-Levin displayed at Gallery 322. 2: The Jallah’s celebrate their special day at Catoctin Hall at Musket Ridge. (MusketRidge.com/Weddings) 3: Mural of Lester Bowie, American jazz trumpet player and composer; created by Rafael Blanco and organized by the Frederick Arts Council. 4: This family enjoys a special photo shoot along Carroll Creek with photographer, Chris Naylor. 5: Aje Hill, with celebrity Chef Natasha Leonard, fundraising to expand his vision to develop and empower youth through mentorship. 6: Velvet Lounge photoshoot at Bar-T Mountainside. 7: Marley, at The Tasting Room, presents a Cabernet Sauvignon from Australia for Wine Wednesday.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your social media photos with @FrederickLifestyle

C I T Y SC E N E

MAKE YOUR HO M E A

COMPLETE INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES

including Furniture, Accessories, Lighting, Window Coverings, Rugs, and More! DreamHouseStyle.com 301.360.0680 102 E PATRICK ST DOWNTOWN FREDERICK

Design. Build. Maintain. A full service, one stop shop to bring your landscaping dreams to life.

Give us a call today to discuss your outdoor needs. 301-865-5656 Family Owned & Operated Since 1989

FrederickLandscaping.org FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R E D E R I C K

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Boss Hair Salon Makes Clients Feel Like a "Boss" Hilaria Kwakumey, originally from Ghana, made Frederick her home five years ago. As she witnessed the booming growth, Hilaria felt it was the right time to invest in her community by opening Boss Hair Salon in November 2020. Boss Hair Salon is a diverse, full-service hair salon catering to all hair types. “We strive to make our clients feel like a 'boss,' and at the same time, build a stronger community where our differences are celebrated,” she says. BossHairSalon1.com

Scan to read more. Photography Provided by Boss Hair Salon

Huntington Learning Center Helps Students Reach their Greatest Potential Ruth Mosley relocated her family from NJ to Frederick for the great schools, lower taxes, and diversity and background of the community. "It’s refreshing to see how many people were not originally from here but decided to make Frederick home." She opened Huntington Learning Center in August 2021, to help students gain confidence and tools to succeed. "The progress at the center translates to better grades, reduced homework struggles and a better learning experience." HuntingtonHelps.com

Scan to read more.

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

If you want to be included, send us a message! Visit CityLifestyle.com/Frederick to get in touch.

Shá Taylor Brings Shaestheticsss to Frederick Shá Taylor, owner of Shaestheticsss, celebrated a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce in October 2021. Shá extensively studied DMK para medical products & protocol, is an acne specialist through Face Reality, and is certified in Medical Aesthetics, Oncology Aesthetics, Dermaplane Pro, Hydrafacial and Cryoskin. Shá enjoys spending time going over existing skincare products and regimens along with a client's lifestyle to determine the best plan for treatment. Shaestheticsss.com

Scan to read more. Photography Tim Rifeneberg

Thrasher's Cleaning Service Specialized in Eco-Friendly Commercial Cleaning Established in 2007, Thrasher's Cleaning Service is a woman and minority owned Commercial Cleaning Company based in Frederick, Maryland. Providing service in the areas of environmentally friendly, hypo-allergenic and recycled goods, Thrasher's Cleaning Service only uses Green Sealed Certified, Environmentally friendly—and most of all—SAFE products. Their green cleaning program incorporates safer cleaning methods, less toxic cleaning products, more efficient cleaning equipment, packaging that has less impact on the environment and recycled paper supplies. ThrashersCleaning.com

Scan to read more.

Photography Viacheslav Lopatin

ALIGN YOUR

RETIREMENT STRATEGY WITH YOUR

RETIREMENT DREAMS Let me help show you how

Jonathan Brant Financial Planner

(240) 315-6891 | jon.brant@prudential.com prudential.com Prudential Advisors is a brand name of The Prudential Insurance Company of America and its subsidiaries. Life Insurance is issued by The Prudential Insurance Company of America, Newark, NJ and its affiliates. Offering financial planning and investment advisory services through Pruco Securities, LLC (Pruco), under the marketing name Prudential Financial Planning Services (PFPS), pursuant to separate client agreement. Offering insurance and securities products and services as a registered representative of Pruco, and an agent of issuing insurance companies. 1-800-778-2255. Prudential, the Prudential logo, and the Rock Symbol are service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc., and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. 1016586-00002-00 FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R E D E R I C K

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2

local experiences Locals recommending the best places and things to do in the city.

There are so many great places to take your sweetheart this Valentine's Day! While a romantic dinner at any of the amazing restaurants in and around Frederick is a tried and true choice, here are some ideas to take your date night to the next level. Plan a special experience that eliminates distractions and gives you a chance to focus on one another as you make special memories together.

Romantic Date Ideas TAILWINDS OVER FR EDER ICK HOT AIR BALLOON R IDES: Experience the

thrill and beauty of the Monocacy Valley as you float over it with Tailwinds Over Frederick. Winter is perfect for a Hot Air Balloon Adventure! 11 Wyndale Court Walkersville, MD SHUNGU GALLER Y: Arrange a private art showing with your amore. 125 South Carroll Street Frederick, MD 4 THE LOVE OF SWEETS: Create a masterpiece at 4 The Love of Sweets with Original Art By Octavia’s Sip and Paint Night. 1100 West Patrick Street Frederick, MD CITY MAGNOLIA DAY SPA: Enjoy a couples massage (and a full suite of luxury spa services) with your partner at City Magnolia Day Spa. 8927 Fingerboard Road Frederick, MD WAREHOUSE CINEMAS: Make an evening of it at Warehouse Cinemas: movie, full bar with 28 self-serve taps, wine, cool cocktails and creative food. 1301 West Patrick Street Frederick, MD

Scan for more photos and the full list. Tailwinds Over Frederick Hot Air Balloon Rides

Want to recommend a local experience? Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

LOCA L E X P E R IE N C E S

SANDRA’S CLEANING AND ORGANIZING Get organized before it’s time to Spring Clean this year!

SERVICES Organization Before Cleaning Deep Cleanings Regular Cleanings Window Cleanings Organization Garage Cleanings & Organization Fridge & Oven Cleaning Cabinet Cleanings Carpet Cleaning

Grow your relationships, increase your influence and improve your business skills with the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce! Visit us online to learn more about membership: FrederickChamber.org

Stay Clean and Organized This Spring! • (240) 626-4768 • www.SandrasCleaningAndOrganizing.com

Grow your network. Increase Your Skills. Influence Your Community.

Find us on Facebook! FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R E D E R I C K

“MY CHILD

LOVES IT. I LOVE IT.” What’s not to love? Sarah has fun, her teachers care, and the school is held to the highest standards of cleanliness.

NOW ENROLLING FOR SUMMER & FALL 2021 URBANA 240-699-0006 FREDERICK 301-631-6699 Infant Through Pre_K • Kindergarten Before- and AFter-School

GoddardSchool.com

*Offer valid for new Goddard families at the above location only. Must enroll at event to receive discount. Some program restrictions apply. Not valid with any other offer. The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, Inc. program is AdvancED accredited. © Goddard Systems Inc. 2020

more than a (gourmet) biscuit HOW LESLEY RILEY, FOUNDER OF MAMA’S BISCUITS, IS USING HER UNIQUE BUSINESS TO GI VE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY ARTICLE BY ARLISS VELDHUIZEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY CONTINUED > FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R E D E R I C K

When you think, “biscuit,” what comes to mind? A dry, crumbly pastry? How about Kahlua Stuffed Brie with Brown Sugar Pecan sauce? Time to expand your biscuit palate! Lesley Riley, aka Mama Biscuit, is changing the biscuit game and giving back to her Frederick community at the same time. It all started at grandma’s house. No matter the occasion, age or head count, Lesley’s grandmother was always hard at work in the kitchen for her family. Witnessing this day after day, a passion for baking was planted in Lesley that would eventually yield the founding of Mama’s Biscuits. Years before her beloved biscuits hit the scene, Lesley baked character cakes on the side while her son attended daycare. Next came her family-owned restaurant, Legends (located in NC), which served her family’s favorite recipes. Then, while working as an IT Project Manager, Lesley headed to New York to audition for Master Chef, but she didn’t make the cut. Despite her discouragement, Lesley’s social media following rooted for her to continue, and that’s just what she did. The result? Mama’s Biscuits: gourmet biscuits serving up delectable flavors made with top-quality ingredients. Incorporated in 2015, and based in Frederick, Mama’s Biscuits offers a rotating schedule of 50+ flavors; and quality over quantity is the priority. Lesley and her tightknit team produce small batches to maintain the quality biscuits her fans have come to love. But the journey to Mama’s Biscuits’ success was no walk in the park. In 2019, the company plummeted from lack of capital funding, and Lesley had exhausted all her personal funds

G IV IN G B AC K | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

to keep it going. Nevertheless, she and her team pressed forward, and after carrying out a company rebrand with a major packaging upgrade, they found the push they needed and came out stronger than before. Aside from a resilient team and unparalleled biscuits, there’s more that makes Mama’s Biscuits special. Lesley’s heart for giving back to the community is something to admire, and she uses Mama’s Biscuits to do just that. Lesley created the Feeding Faith Initiative with a focused mission to serve and has teamed up with local agencies, including the Department of Aging, Frederick Rescue Mission, Religious Coalition Shelter, Frederick Community College and Community Action, donating thousands of biscuits to the community each year. Even still, she wanted to do more. This year, the Mama’s Biscuit team hits the streets of Frederick and three other U.S. cities to roll out their Biscuits and Blankets initiative. Each street team will deliver care packages to members of the homeless community that include a fleece blanket, toothbrush, pair of socks, and of course, a bag of Mama’s Biscuits. Lesley and her team plan to carry out Biscuits and Blankets yearly with the hope of expansion to more cities. MamaBiscuit.com

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” - Hebrews 11:1

show us your biscuits Want to support the work that Mama’s Biscuits is doing in the Frederick community (or experience her delicious biscuits for yourself )? Visit www.MamaBiscuit.com for more information. You can also find them in the freezer section at Wegmans and both Walmarts in Frederick. And when you do, be sure to #ShowUsYourBiscuits on Instagram @MAMASBISCUITS. Photography by Lesley Riley FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R E D E R I C K

We move your business forward. Many ask, “How does it work?” Leave the bookkeeping & controller services to us! At Supporting Strategies, our skilled, experienced professionals use secure, best-of-breed technology and a proven process to provide outsourced bookkeeping and controller services. Our full suite of services includes accounts payable, accounts receivable, bookkeeping, financial analysis, and payroll administration. We’re here to take on the bookkeeping and controller work that would otherwise divert you from your core competency.

Ready to learn more?

Steve Barber

Schedule a call with Steve today!

Cell (301) 442-4261 Office (301) 329-0342 sbarber@supportingstrategies.com

Managing Director

OUR SERVICES: We specialize in providing financial insight to help business leaders drive revenue & reduce expenses. transactional bookkeeping • human resources • outsourced CFO functions • accounts payable • billing • accounts receivable • month-end close • budgeting

FIND YOUR FUN. FIND YOUR Y. CAMP OPEN HOUSE

Feb. 12

SAVE 10% At Y day camp, your kids will make new friends and have tons of fun as they explore new adventures each day.

FIND YOUR Y AT YMCA OF FREDERICK COUNTY

FREDERICKYMCA.ORG

$5 FESTIVE COCKTAILS EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT IN FEBRUARY!

LUNCH & DINNER

Lunch

BRUNCH SATURDAY & SUNDAY 11-4

301.682.2480

Dinner

truthandbeautymd.com 50 CARROLL CREEK WAY SUITE 110, FREDERICK, MD

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R E D E R I C K

celebrating blackowned businesses

NEW AND VETERAN BUSINESS OWNERS SHARE WHY THEY LOVE DOING BUSINESS IN FREDERICK

ARTICLE BY KRISTEN WOJDAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY

This February we are celebrating the heritage and achievements of African Americans in our community. It is an honor to spotlight a few of the many amazing men and women who have invested their time, talent and treasure in Frederick County. Passion, innovation and vision exude from these local leaders as they share why they love doing business in Frederick.

After watching the science-fiction adventure film Ready Player One, Shantay DeMar was inspired to explore and test virtual reality gaming rooms and create @VR Virtual Reality. Born and raised in Frederick, Shantay wanted to bring something new and different to his community. “I love that I’m from the community and that I’m able to help influence the youth and other entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams of starting a business. I have always had a passion for entrepreneurship, and I love interacting and communicating with people. I also enjoy helping people become the best that they can be!” Located on the Golden Mile, @VR celebrated two years in November 2021. @VR is a virtual reality gaming room with over 70 games, including: sports, multiplayer, musical, horror and destination. Instead of watching a screen, players are immersed in the game itself. “My business is pretty much for all ages and we really take pride in providing great customer service!” AtVirtualReality.com

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | LOCAL S E RVI CE S

Shantay DeMar @VR Virtual Reality

Wayne & Ashley Norris Honey Doers, LLC

“This pandemic has shown us how much the Frederick community can really come together to support local.”

Wayne and Ashley Norris launched Honey Doers, LLC in January 2020, to create a legacy for their children. This elite delivery company offers personalized laundry services for residential and commercial clients. Ashley is from Brunswick and Wayne made Frederick his home over ten years ago. It only made sense to start their venture in Frederick, because “it’s always been a hot spot and will always be our home…This pandemic has shown us how much the Frederick community can come together to support local.” It has mainly been a two-person show— the building, scaling, providing service and creating their “Laundry 4 Love” project, which provides free laundry to help community members without access to laundry facilities, elderly, low income, persons with disabilities and more. HoneyDoersMD.com CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R E D E R I C K

Brandon Chapman and De’von Wellesley 88Visual

When the 2020 pandemic hit, and the lockdowns and curfews started putting stress on local businesses, Brandon Chapman and De’von Wellesley decided to act. With De’von’s video production talent and Brandon’s network in the community, it was clear that they could support Frederick through storytelling to promote these businesses and improve their engagement. With time on their hands, they began to produce short films, pro bono, for struggling establishments with the hope to keep them in business. This is how 88Visual was born. Rooted in Frederick, these fathers appreciate the strong sense of community. “We love creating an impact in our community and Frederick is the perfect place for that. It has the feel of a small town but the resources of a larger city…we can continue to tell stories for the people and organizations that we love and support right here in our town. We want to build opportunities for the next generation and are invested in giving back to our city. We provide internships for local students and have donated over 30 videos to different businesses and organizations over the past year and a half. That kind of give and take balance we see here in Frederick is what good community is made of.” Brandon and De’von are passionate about helping others succeed by providing internships, sharing their passion for storytelling with youth and working with local businesses to share their inspiring stories. “Our passion to lift our community is just as strong as our ambition to become the best company we can.” 88Visual.com

“We want to build opportunities for the next generation and are invested in giving back to our city.” 24

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | LOCAL S E RVI CE S

Masai Troutman

MASAI Technologies Corp (MTC)

Masai Troutman brought MTC to Frederick when it was awarded its first multi-million dollar contract with the U.S. Army Medical Research & Material Command in 2003, in order to be closer to the customer, grow customer relations and improve service responsiveness. Masai appreciates the supportive Office of Economic Development (OED) business and workforce development programs and has expanded MTC customers to include Health & Human Services, Navy, Intelligence and other Defense Agencies. MTC has provided technology and process integration solutions to mission critical U.S. Defense operations world-wide, for over 25 years. “I am a servant leader, and I apply servant leadership to all aspects of my life, such as with my family and friends, community, customers, employees and business partners. Enhancing others and seeing them grow enhances me.” After hours, you can find Masai and his family playing basketball, strength training and doing cardio activities at local fitness centers. “Frederick is family and fitness oriented, which I greatly value.” Masai-Tech.com

Katrice Scott Two Sweet, LLC

A Downtown Frederick native, Katrice dreamed of starting a business with her twin sister, Two Sweet, when they were just kids. They took a leap of faith in 2017. “Frederick is what made me into the person I am today! My grandmother worked at Winchester Hall for over 15 years… my grandfather, Mr. William O. Lee, Jr. is embedded in Frederick’s history…honestly, I never want to leave.” Prior to starting Two Sweet, Katrice had little experience baking. She baked her first dozen cookies as a favor to her sister who needed help to complete an order and hasn’t stopped since! “I appreciate running my business in Frederick because of the support. My first business questions were answered at City Hall. My first sale was in Downtown Frederick. I work out of Maryland Bakes, a shared kitchen on Route 40. Not every city has the opportunity to work out of a shared kitchen.” With only two years of experience she landed herself on the Food Network’s Christmas Cookie Challenge. “I am very passionate about baking because my journey started during one of my lowest points in life. I enjoy putting smiles on people’s faces. I refer to myself as an edible artist.” TwoSweetLLC.com CONTINUED > FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R E D E R I C K

James & Danielle Smith Jerk N Jive Bar & Kitchen Jerk N Jive Caribbean Kitchen

“We start most mornings before 8AM and when customers are in the restaurant at 7PM enjoying all the hard work of the day, it’s really satisfying.”

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | LOCAL S E RVI CE S

James and Danielle Smith noticed that there were no restaurants offering Caribbean cuisine in Frederick, so they opened their first restaurant in November 2017, and their second location in August 2020. “I love seeing the customers enjoy the food and atmosphere,” James shares. “We start most mornings before 8AM and when customers are in the restaurant at 7PM enjoying all the hard work of the day, it’s really satisfying.” Those unfamiliar with Caribbean menu and cuisine tend to think the food is all spicy and the options are limited. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Says James, “I want people to know that we offer a full menu of food options with a full bar, happy hour specials and Maryland favorites…and we started a live music series on Saturday nights.” JerkNJiveBar.com

When Your Message Deserves to be Seen Call AMI Signs: A Different Type of Sign Company Exterior Signs | Office Signs & Graphics Window & Wall Graphics | Vehicle Graphics & Lettering Trade Shows & Events

Promote Your Business & Grow Your Brand

301.682.2349 || amisigns.com

“At AMI Signs, we don’t just make cool signs – We make cool customers.”

Your Neighborhood Trusted Roofer! Call Us Today at 301.703.2157 – Affordable Financing Options –

Our Promise:

We Do Roofing Right. B U I L D I N G R E L AT I O N S H I P S

www.ansconstruction.net info@ansconstruction.net Frederick, MD 21703

& TRUST Best of Best 2021 Finalist thanks to you!

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R E D E R I C K

What Is Black?

It’s Complicated, But Dr. Jacqueline Douge Isn’t Shying Away from the Conversation ARTICLE BY ARLISS VELDHUIZEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY

LOCA LS ON LY | A RTS + CULTURE

Meet Dr. Jacqueline Douge, the heart and soul behind What Is Black, a game-changing media company that’s crafting quality content for black families everywhere. A DC native turned Frederick local, Dr. Douge draws on her experience and passion as a proud black woman, mother and veteran pediatrician to guide parents of black children as they tread the waters of racial identity. Here’s some of what she shared about the work she is doing:

HOW ABOUT A WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT FOR PARENTS OF BLACK CHILDREN? Just let your kid be a kid...love your kids, encourage them, prepare them, but ultimately, lead with love, as opposed to fear. Kids need to know they are loved first–they are seen and heard-because that’s the foundation. When the world tells them that they’re something different, they have something to come back to…And then you deal with the issues as they come.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START WHAT IS BLACK? Working on The American Academy of Pediatrics policy statement on the Impact of Racism on Child and Adolescent Health…conversing with my children directly…reflecting on the experiences my children had and how to talk with them about their racial identity, knowing that there’s the outside lens of the media...and stereotypes and generalizations about them; but at the same time, trying to figure out how to help them navigate this...then, thinking about how I struggled with my racial identity, and how did my parents helped me deal with that? So, that’s where this question came from...Podcasts have become a great way to educate families, and I think I’m one of the few providers talking directly to parents of black children. I try to use the public health approach to have conversations...and hopefully that provides resources for parents.

WHAT CAN OTHERS DO TO BUILD UP AND CELEBRATE BLACK CHILDREN AND CULTURE? I think we each have to check our own biases; where do we stand on the discussion of race? Are you comfortable having conversations about race?...if you’re not, you start from where you are and try to find resources where you can learn to feel more comfortable having those conversations. Ask questions and lead with humility; I’m still learning and I wanna learn more…It’s a process, but I think it always starts with self-analysis.

WHAT WORDS OF WISDOM WOULD YOU GIVE PARENTS OF BLACK CHILDREN? Don’t be afraid to have the conversation about race. There’s additional insight for your kid about who they are, and it takes away the stigma of having the conversation. The media is sometimes sensational…I think we can get retraumatized over and over…where can you find the joy? What’s also real is the juxtaposition of the joy that we experience every day. What we see in the media creates fear. As a parent, the media reinforces this fear…I’m worried about my son coming home…Why am I not excited that he gets to go out with his friends and enjoy being 20? Hopefully, we get to the point where it becomes a routine conversation; there are going to be complex conversations...You have these extremes: you have the negativity and exceptionalism, but in the middle there’s just living.

HOW HAS STARTING WHAT IS BLACK HELPED YOU IN YOUR JOURNEY WITH RACIAL IDENTITY? I think it’s made me more comfortable taking up space as a black woman…I can’t separate the fact that I’m black, I’m a woman, I’m a physician…those are all the things that make me who I am. And now if I have a platform, how do I then lift as I climb?... It’s really about how you can find a way to be of service in a way that’s authentic. WHAT DETAILS ABOUT YOUR UPCOMING DOCUMENTARY CAN YOU SHARE WITH US? It’s called Reading In Black, and the idea is to celebrate black children’s literature...It’s not just a moment; it’s not just a movement. This literature has been around for a long time, and not only is it used as a way to help black children feel good about themselves...they are tools and resources for other people to read and use, and there are not enough of them... We’ll talk a little bit about the history of the books, interview authors and illustrators, and about where we go from here in terms of promoting the books. Aside from working as a pediatrician at the Pediatric Center of Frederick, you might find Dr. Douge taking a stroll around Baker Park, snagging an order from Pizza Hut or sipping on her perfect cup of hot cocoa. WhatIsBlack.co CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R E D E R I C K

"...love your kids, encourage them, prepare them, but ultimately, lead with love, as opposed to fear."

LOCA LS ON LY | A RTS + CULTURE

Here to make your dreams of homeownership in Frederick come true!

Let’s connect.

#1 Rated Lender on Zillow Local Operations for Greater Efficiency Competitive Rates + Customized Solutions Exceptional Mortgage Service

GABE FORTMANN |

NMLS #448830

(240) 344-7403 academymortgage.com/gabefortmann gabe.fortmann@academymortgage.com 10 South Market Street, Frederick, MD 21701

State Lic: MD #26-23362 | Corp State Lic: MD #12423 | Corp NMLS #3113 Intended for Maryland Consumers Only. FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R E D E R I C K

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

DIP, EAT A N D E N JOY !

CHEF TIERA SUMBLIN SHARES HOW TO MAKE CHOCOLATE COVERED STRAWBERRIES FOR ANY SPECIAL OCCASION

1. CHOOSE THE RIGHT CHOCOLATE. The best chocolate for dipping strawberries is coating chocolate as it produces an amazing shine and gives the perfect “crack” upon biting. (Recommended brands: Ghirardelli Melting Wafers, Wilton Candy Melts, and Mercken’s Coating Chocolate.) Follow the melting instructions carefully so that you do not burn the chocolate! Many short intervals in the microwave is key. 2. COMPLETELY DRY THE STRAWBERRIES. Wash the strawberries and allow them to air dry on paper towels before dipping. 3. USE A DEEP CUP FOR DIPPING IN ORDER TO COVER THE ENTIRE STRAWBERRY. A simple up and down motion is best for dipping! Hold the green tops or use a toothpick to dip. Place the dipped berries on parchment or wax paper for easy removal once they have hardened. 4. DECORATE! To complete the drizzle, use one side of a fork or a plastic bag with a tiny hole in it, and move back and forth quickly over the strawberry. For a little extra razzle dazzle, add sprinkles, nuts or chocolate chips before the chocolate hardens! 5. DIP AND PRESENT WITHIN 1-2 HOURS OF EATING. Refrigeration will produce condensation and take away from your beautiful work. If the strawberries must be refrigerated, surround strawberries with paper towels to help with the condensation.

ARTICLE BY CHEF TIERA SUMBLIN

Chef Tiera Sumblin has been dipping strawberries for over 15 years. You can order her chocolate covered strawberries, along with other beautiful and delicious creations, throughout the year. SafiEvents.com

PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R E D E R I C K

Top 10 Homes

NEIGHBORHOOD

S O L D I N F R E D E R ICK

BED

BATH

DOM

%SOLD/ORIG

ORIGINAL PRICE

SOLD PRICE

6918-B NEW LONDON

113%

$1,200,000

$1,350,000

11850 WHISKEY SPRINGS RD

76%

$1,650,000

$1,250,000

2110 DIXON RD

102%

$1,100,000

$1,120,000

2819 SUMANTOWN RD

103%

$950,000

$980,000

506 W 2ND ST

100%

$949,900

$950,000

2654 MONOCACY FORD

100%

$950,000

9302 CHICORY CT

117%

$784,990

$914,540

4108 CELTIC WAY

103%

$885,000

$911,500

4732 CALEB WOOD DR

101%

$899,000

$905,000

10838 GLOWING HEARTH*

100%

$899,900

4102 CELTIC WAY*

100%

$899,000

*Homes tied for 10th place. Listing provided by Bright MLS. This reflects a 30 day time period prior to our print deadline. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

REAL TRENDS RANKED

#1 LARGE TEAM IN MARYLAND #5 IN THE USA FOR NUMBER OF TRANSACTIONS!

YO U R H O M E I S M Y P R I O R I T Y In a tough market you need an expert to guide you through the process. Who you hire matters. Let me exceed your expectations! Call or text me today and let’s get started on your goals. INC. MAGAZINE’S 5000 LIST OF FASTEST GROWING COMPANIES IN THE COUNTRY!

D OUG GARD I N E R REALTOR ®

Managing Partner Cell: 301.404.6494 WWW.MARYLANDEXPERTS.COM THE MARYLAND GROUP OF LONG & FOSTER REAL ESTATE INC. 877-498-8722 | 5301 Buckeystown Pike, Ste. 250, Frederick

R A N K E D T H E # 1 G R O U P AT L O N G & F O S T E R F O R N U M B E R O F H O M E S S O L D I N 2 0 2 0 !

LANDSCAPING | HARDSCAPING | MAINTENANCE | LIGHTING | DRAINAGE

FAMILY-OWNED & OPERATED

CALL TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION! (301) 898-3615

HawkinsLandscaping.com SPOTS ARE FILLING UP. BOOK NOW FOR SPRING! Established 1974

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in the city. FEBR UARY 5TH

February First Saturday (Fire in Ice) Thank you for voting us FREDERICK'S BEST 2021!

DOWNTOWN FREDERICK | 10:00 AM Explore Downtown Frederick and enjoy hundreds of ice sculptures, fire performers and winter-themed family fun. Support local businesses by shopping with retailers, eating at local restaurants and supporting local artists. DowntownFrederick.org/FirstSaturday

Beauty is Within K I T C H E N S & B AT H | A D D I T I O N S B A S E M E N T S | I N - L AW S U I T E S S UNRO OM S | DEC K S & MORE

Visit our showroom! 8415 Pro gress Dr Ste D in Frederick (240) 651-5096 | DormanHomeRemodeling.com

FEBR UARY 18TH

Julian Bliss with NYC Jazz

NE W S P I R E A RTS | 7 :30 P M The fourth concert in the New Spire Arts 2021-2022 Concert Series is Julian Bliss with NYC Jazz. From swing to jazz, these UK musicians amaze. The Julian Bliss Septet is known for their inspiring jazz-fueled shows as they have traveled across the globe. Enjoy a program of swing, Latin, American and jazz music. NewSpireArts.org

FEBR UARY 19 TH

Hyper Local Brew Fest

F R E DE R I C K FA I R G R O UND S | 1 2:0 0 P M Support some of your favorite local breweries, eat some delicious food from Traditional Authentic Mexican Food Truck and Pizza & Pretzel Creations, and enjoy music all day from Rock School and The Curley Brothers! Hosted by Rockwell Brewery. RockwellBrewery.com Dorman Home Remodeling, Inc. MHIC 44942-01 VA Class “A” Contractor

EVE N TS

CONTINUED >

Strengthen body and soul through a divine transformation. I N S T RU C TO R T R A I N I N G | O N - D E M A N D C L A S S E S L E A D E R S H I P | CO M M U N I T Y | WO R S H I P | S T U DY

Scan here to stream Holy Yoga TV free for 30 days!

holyyoga.net

GET INSPIRED E AT & D R I N K SHOP LOCAL YO UR DIG ITA L DESTIN ATIO N F OR LO CA L L IV IN G

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R E D E R I C K

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2

events

Love your skin

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in the city.

FEBR UARY 20 TH

THIS VALENTINE'S DAY

Spen d $1,500 of any ser vice an d let cupid gift you with on e syrin ge of Versa HA Filler for FREE! * $1 50 0 total transac tion. Filler m ust be used w i t h i n 9 0 d a ys o f $1 50 0 tra n sac tion. Can n ot be transferred or ref un d ed fo r m o n ey.

C O N S U LT A T I O N S FACIALS INJECTABLES LASER TREATMENTS PDO THREADS IV VITAMIN INFUSIONS LASH & BROW SERVICES MAKEUP SERVICES

Women's Guitar Gala

CA LVA RY UNI T E D ME T H OD I ST C H UR C H | 3:0 0 P M Classical guitarists Danielle Cumming, Magdalena Duhagon and Candice Mowbray come together for an engaging program of solo and ensemble music from Brazil, France, Canada and more. This concert is free and open to the public. FrederickArtsCouncil.org

FEBR UARY 21ST

Seeds to Roots Youth Arts Performance

WE I NB E R G C E NT E R F O R T HE A RTS | 6 :0 0 P M The 2022 “Seed to Roots Youth Arts Performance” is produced as a live show that includes live and pre-recorded student performances, each inspired by or in celebration of Black Artists with the theme of Black history and culture. The opportunity to perform is open all K-12 students in Frederick County. WeinbergCenter.org

CHIROPRACTIC WORK HORMONE THERAPY

FEBR UARY 26TH

In Their Own Voices

URBANA ADVANCED AESTHETICS URBANAAESTHETICS.COM 3532 D URBANA PIKE FREDERICK

301-363-5543

EVE N TS

C H E C K WE B S I T E F O R MO ST UP DAT E D I NF O R MAT I O N A B OU T LO CAT I O N. | 1 1 :0 0 A M This is the ninth annual living history and heritage food event commemorating Black History Month. Black enslaved workers comprised a substantial part of the workforce at Catoctin Furnace. Actors from Silver Oak Academy portray workers and servants in vignettes based on events in the village. A lunch prepared using traditional recipes follows. CatoctinFurnace.org

FALL IN LOVE WITH

Beautiful, Healthy HAIR

Now offering brow henna

An Eco Friendly Salon Certified Organic Color Specialists 301.845.2300

31-D East Frederick St, Walkersville, MD www.SalonAllureLLC.net | @SalonAllureLLC

IF YOU’RE READING THIS, SO ARE YOUR POTENTIAL CLIENTS CONTACT US TODAY TO GET UP TO

3OF FREE MONTHS ADVERTISING CAN’T COMBINE OFFERS. LIMITED TIME ONLY. NEW AGREEMENTS ONLY.

Reach over 80,000 engaged community members in and around Frederick

TRIAL AND PREMIUM PACKAGES AVAILABLE

AMBER SMITH 240-367-0070 | amber.smith@lifestylepubs.com fredericklifestyle.com

Dreaming Up the Ideal Retirement Is Your Job. Helping You Get There Is Ours. To learn more about why Edward Jones makes sense for you, call my office today. Matt Owens, AAMS® Financial Advisor

10 N Jefferson Street Suite 201 Frederick, MD 21701 301-360-9973

matt.owens@edwardjones.com edwardjones.com | Member SIPC

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R E D E R I C K

Customized care. Leading-edge technology. When it comes to healthcare, one size does not fit all. Our Precision Medicine & Genetics experts can design personalized plans that guide you on the path to better health and wellness.

We’re right here. FrederickHealth.org/PMG 301-662-8477