Frederick, MD June 2023

MILESTONE & OCCASIONS

BRANDING & CORPORATE EVENTS

BOUDOIR & SELF LOVE PORTRAITS

ALEX EDWARDS, OWNER

MARIEROSESHOOTS.COM

The Men’s Edition

Hello Frederick! June is here and that means summertime is about to make its grand entrance. Before all the attention goes to vacation prep and camp carpools, let’s not forget a very special day just weeks away. Have you decided how you’re celebrating Father’s Day this year?

As I reflect on fatherhood—fathers and father figures alike—I’m immediately filled with admiration and love for so many who are living out this calling wholeheartedly everyday. The impact caring dads and positive male role models have on society is so great, it’s hard to find the words to express meaningful recognition. Helping to shape and mold the next generation is not for the faint of heart!

So gentlemen, I will just say thank you. Your love, provision, protection, guidance, wisdom and care is creating change in ways you will never fully grasp in your lifetime. Dad, I’m thinking of you. Call me biased, but you truly are the best and are influencing so many around you.

Readers, need a little inspiration for a Father’s Day gift? We would love for you to support local and consider our devoted advertising partners. Car detailing, electric bikes, landscaping maintenance packages, massage, flotation therapy and custom woodworking pieces are just a few ideas to get your wheels turning!

Big shout out to McClintock Distilling for opening their beautiful tasting room for our photoshoot. Proudly distilling gins, whiskies and vodkas from organic ingredients, McClintock has won numerous awards and competitions—including Best Distillery in Maryland at the NY International Spirits Competition! If you haven’t checked them out, there’s no time like the present.

Before you dive into all the great stories and happenings around town, I’d like to take a moment to thank two very important men who believe in the heart and mission of Frederick Lifestyle. Pictured above is Kristen and I with our hubbies, Andre Smith and Jeremy Wojdan. If these two guys didn’t believe in this monthly publication and support all that comes along with the wild world of deadlines, we wouldn’t be where we are today. Thank you both!

Friends, I encourage you to make a point this month to reach out to men in your lives who could use the reminder that the love they are pouring out each day matters greatly. Let’s celebrate them!

June 2023

PUBLISHER

Amber Smith | Amber.Smith@CityLifestyle.com

EDITOR

Kristen Wojdan | Kristen.Wojdan@CityLifestyle.com

ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR

Shannon Libby | Shannon.Libby@CityLifestyle.com

INTERN

Maddie Wojdan

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily Dickey, Jennifer Gerlock, Karen Justice

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Angie Auth Photography, Lytebox Photography, Marie Rose Photography, T. Kowalsky Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

AMBER SMITH, PUBLISHER @FREDERICKLIFESTYLE

city scene

1:

Frederick Catoctones sing the Star-Spangled Banner to commence FCBIA’s 48th Annual Frederick Home & Garden Expo. 2: Mark Lancaster (Lancaster Craftsmen Builders), Mike Pilch (North Market Construction and Mary Barry (Sandy Spring Bank) enjoy the kick-off event.

Lancaster (Lancaster Craftsmen Builders) and Samantha Lawson (Stanley Black & Decker) with carpentry students from CTC at the Builder Olympics.

Many local dignitaries joined in the ribbon-cutting celebration of the 48th Annual Home & Garden Show. 5: The FCBIA leaders who made it all happen: Sarah Harne (Communications Director), Dani Adam (Chief Officer) and Dawn Hipsley with Tripoint Administrative Services.

La Trina Neal of Frederick Choice Digital and Sandra Hofmeister of A&S Construction make a new friend at the networking breakfast.

David Furze of Green Home Solutions makes new connections at the Million Dollar Networking Breakfast.

The

3: Peter

4:

6:

7:

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

@THEFCBIA

@ROOFMARYLAND

@FCPS_CTC

Jennifer and

our

through

as Troy is honored as an athlete on the Frederick

kindness

1: Jeremy and Kristen Wojdan celebrate with

Troy Barrick

Sports Mural. 2: Joe Gatewood, Founder of TGP Gives (bettering

community

acts of

and generosity), shares details about the Frederick Sports Mural. 3: Standing room only! (Angie Auth Photography) 4: Sports fans met some of their hometown heroes at the event. (Angie Auth Photography) 5: Erica Jarboe and TGP team take care of every detail for this VIP event. 6: Yemi Fagbohun, the inspiring artist behind the Frederick Sports Mural, celebrates with his son, Sage. 7: Guests find loved ones on the list of athletes who will be depicted on the mural.

@TGPGIVES @TGPGIVES

@FREDERICKLIFESTYLE

@FREDERICK_SPORTS_MURAL

@FREDERICK_SPORTS_MURAL

@YEMIARTIST

@UNIONMILLSPUBLICHOUSE

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

8: Sport’s Mural honoree, Steve Schrader (Men’s Basketball), speaks with Sports Historian and writer, Sheldon Shealer. 9: Union Mills Public House hosted the kick-off event for the Frederick Sports Mural. 10: Yemi Fagbohun and Tony Checchia reveal the names of the 250 athletes who will be honored on the mural. 11: Lots of smiles at the Frederick Sports Mural kick-off event. 12: Get your camera out! (Angie Auth Photography) 13: Fred Genau and Dr. Rev. Derek Shackelford (Alderman for City of Frederick) as Derek is honored as an athlete on the Frederick Sports Mural 14: Celebrating a family member who is being included in the sports mural.

@FREDERICK_SPORTS_MURAL

@SHACKQUE1911

@FREDERICK_SPORTS_MURAL

@FREDERICK_SPORTS_MURAL

@FREDERICK_SPORTS_MURAL

@UNIONMILLSPUBLICHOUSE @UNIONMILLSPUBLICHOUSE

Steve Barber Wins GaithersburgGermantown Chamber Small Business of the Year Award

Congratulations to Steve Barber of Supporting Strategies for winning Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber Small Business of the Year Award! Steve, pictured alongside President and CEO of the GGCC, Paula Ross, recently celebrated this big accomplishment. Supporting Strategies provides outsourced bookkeeping, accounting, controller and operations services to growing businesses so that business owners can put a laser focus on revenue growth. Clear insights into a business's financials are critical and they are ready to help!  SupportingStrategies.com

Unveil Your Story with Martin Libby

In today's competitive marketplace, small businesses need to find creative ways to stand out from the crowd. That's where Unveil Your Story comes in. By leveraging the power of storytelling, this innovative marketing agency helps small businesses connect with their target audiences on a deeper level, building trust and loyalty along the way. Whether it's through social media, web design, commercials or other channels, Unveil Your Story is dedicated to helping small businesses tell their stories and achieve their goals. UnveilYourStory.com

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Meet Owner Brian Pruess of Green Home Solutions

Brian joined this franchise after retiring from the U.S. Army because Green Home Solutions' values and his family values aligned well. Both have a focus on environmental stewardship and healthy living. Green Home Solutions specializes in a range of indoor air quality issues, from mold and odors to allergens, viruses, microbes and harmful VOCs and particulate matter. They use EPAregistered, plant-based products with services ranging from indoor air quality testing and mold remediation to odor removal, disinfection and crawlspace encapsulation.  GreenHomeSolutions.com/MountAiry-MD

Nymeo Field At Harry Grove Stadium Gets Upgraded

The owners of Attain Sports and Entertainment are committed to the Frederick Keys (Draft League) and the new unnamed team (Atlantic Professional League). As we enter baseball season this spring, expect to see some exciting upgrades, including: the stadium, the fence, the scoreboard, the field and the sound system. Also, the weekend fireworks displays on most Friday and Saturday evenings will be even bigger than before. If you are a baseball fan be sure to get your tickets this season! FrederickKeys.com

Photography: Frederick Keys

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Queen Home LLC Donates Flooring Installation to Steadfast

Matt and Sean Queen of Queen Home LLC donated many hours of labor and skill to replace the dilapidated laundry room floor at Steadfast (a local non-profit on a mission to provide safe housing in a caring, supervised and home-like environment for unaccompanied homeless youth and for youth transitioning out of foster care). The new floor is now safe, waterproof and gorgeous—moving Steadfast one step closer to opening their doors in 2023! Search  Queen Home LLC on Linked In.

Melissa Lentz, CEO & Founder

Tyler Joyce, Owner of Frederick Guitar School, is Passionate about Teaching Music

Tyler Joyce has been playing the guitar for over 40 years both professionally and recreationally. He traveled and performed extensively throughout the United States and Asia, performing on a USO tour. As a certified G4 Guitar Method instructor, Tyler believes that everyone should be able to have a life of music—that's why he became a teacher. He offers both group and private lessons for guitar, bass guitar and ukulele. FrederickGuitarSchool.com

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Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Frederick

MONOCACY CROSSING!

Enjoy Contemporary American

Upscale Dining Experience / Casual Patio Dining / Happy Hour

Like Father, Like Son

A Lifetime Love for Two Wheels

ARTICLE BY EMILY DICKEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIE ROSE PHOTOGRAPHY

Like father, like son.

For Richard and Ian Riley, the 48-year journey of Fredericktown Yamaha has brought this phrase to reality.

“I feel lucky to work with my dad every day. He is a real asset to this business,” said Ian. “I don’t ever want him to doubt his worth here.”

To hear 77-year-old Richard Riley tell the story of how the shop was started is like taking a walk through history, starting first with a mother, Geraldine Riley, who told him he could never have a motorcycle as long as he lived “under her roof”.

During a three-day shore leave with the U.S. Navy aboard the U.S.S. Hoist in 1966, Richard bought his first bike, a blue Bultaco in Barcelona. “I was on the ship that helped to find and retrieve the hydrogen bomb. I figured I was ready for my first motorcycle,” Richard said, noting it cost just $319 in American dollars.

When Richard returned to the States he attended George Mason University using the GI Bill and worked various jobs before joining with two men to run Virginia Cart and Cycle in Springfield, Virginia, in 1974.

Harry Carbaugh, Chuck Carbaugh, Richard Riley and BJ "Captain America" Breece in 1976 with the trans-continental Yamaha RD125

Ian Riley in 1991 practicing for the Pro Motocross series

Richard Riley and 8yo Ian Riley in 1978 at Big Berm Raceway

One year later, Richard had the opportunity to acquire a Yamaha dealership in Frederick, Maryland, with the help of Robert Lindquist, the owner of the land where the dealership was located. “He gave me an advantageous rent and a $5,000 line of credit. Without that, and the portion of the down payment I had from Virginia, I wouldn’t have been able to take over this business,” Richard explained. He took full ownership on September 7, 1975.

Located on the corner of Grove Road and Route 355, or as Richard likes to say “the corner of walk and don’t walk,” Fredericktown Yamaha has stayed put in the decades since Richard took ownership, despite changes and growth that have blossomed around it. “Once upon a time we were on the outskirts,” he explained. “It was all farmland, except for a quarry across the street and May’s Deli nearby.”

As the oldest Riley son, Ian, 52, has fond memories of hanging out at the shop after school and helping over the summer. “I remember coming here a lot,” recalled Ian.

In addition to having picnics at the shop or visiting the cows across the street, Ian also spent a lot of time racing dirt bikes, not only around the dirt lot adjacent to the shop but at local tracks, eventually holding a professional Motocross license from 1991-1999.

“My most valuable times with Ian were when we were up at 4 AM, on our way to a day of racing,” Richard recalled. “We created a bond that has allowed us to talk about a lot of things.”

That bond has carried itself into the operation of Fredericktown Yamaha. Although he has been dubbed by his dad as the “longest continued employee”, Ian’s career path took him away from the family business for a number of years before bringing him back to work full-time alongside his father.

Following high school graduation, Ian attended Salisbury University, earning a Business Administration degree with a minor in education. He continued to race on weekends but landed a job as a Tech Ed substitute at New Market Middle School, where his mom Sharon was a geography teacher. Ian taught drafting at Frederick High School until leaving in 2002, to become a sales rep for Fox Racing, a motorcycle apparel company. “It gave me a more flexible schedule to be with my daughters,” Ian explained; he briefly returned to the classroom in 2006.

Through it all, Ian still helped his dad on weekends and came back to the family shop as general manager in 2008. “Being away allowed me to learn a lot. I came back with a new mindset and more skills to help the business.”

Not only has Ian’s time with the business evolved, but so has Fredericktown Yamaha. “It starts with a love for two wheels,” Ian explained. “That love changes not only as people become adults, but also as the world changes.” In addition to an inventory of new and used motorcycles, dirt bikes and ATVs, they recently expanded to include electric bicycles, thanks to Ian’s insights on the changing times.

“I feel lucky to work with my dad every day. He is a real asset to this business, I don’t ever want him to doubt his worth here.”

“I would have ignored them [electric bikes] because it’s always been about gasoline for me,” said Richard. “Ian eats, sleeps and breathes this business. He knows what it needs to keep delivering our best to a community that has helped us so much over the years.”

Together, Richard and Ian are excited to create more relationships and memories for the Frederick area. “This community has allowed us to be who we are and what we are for so many years. They have embraced us—we want to continue to show our appreciation for that,” said Richard, noting his wife (Sharon) and two other sons (Kyle and Brent) have also helped the business in many ways over the years.

“Our business has given us the opportunity to get to know many people,” Ian agreed. “Everyone has a story—if we can be a part of their story and they can be a part of ours, that’s really what we are all about.” FredericktownYamaha.com

“This community has allowed us to be who we are and what we are for so many years...[Frederick] has embraced us—we want to continue to show our appreciation for that.”

- Richard.

LOCAL LEGACY LEADERS AT OURISMAN

Five Frederick Fathers Share Their Love for Family and Frederick

ARTICLE BY KRISTEN WOJDAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY LYTEBOX PHOTOGRAPHY AT MCCLINTOCK DISTILLING’S TASTING ROOM

It is rare to see a business in America that bears the founder’s name four generations later. Today, Ourisman (the 16th largest dealer group in the country, private or public) has 36 franchises in 25 locations—including Frederick! On the corner of Urbana Pike and Buckeystown Pike, the Ourisman Frederick sign stands out among a sea of vehicles, including the most popular models from Audi, Volvo, Lincoln and various used luxury automobiles.

The Ourisman legacy of success began in 1904, when young Benjamin Ourisman immigrated with his parents to the United States from what is now Ukraine. At the age of 18, Ben was a top performing Chevy salesman in Washington, D.C. In 1921, he went out on his own and opened Ourisman Chevrolet. He lived

through the ups and downs of the Great Depression and World War II. Despite the economic hardship, by 1940, Ourisman Chevrolet was one of the nation’s most successful car dealers.

In 1955, Ben’s son, Mandel, took over the business. As Mandel grew his own family, he continued to grow the business into the DC suburbs. His four sons grew up in the business and are best friends today as they each lead their own branch of the Ourisman legacy. In Fall 2015, 4th generation Chris Ourisman completed the purchase of FSK Automotive and Ourisman Frederick was born.

One of the most exciting things on the horizon is the development of the property across from the current Ourisman campus.

This secondary property is owned by Ourisman and is being held for the purpose of luxury automotive expansion as the Frederick area continues to grow.

The Ourisman legacy is more than distinguished cars and exceptional customer service. With a history and legacy of giving back to the community, especially supporting education and the performing arts, Mandel generously funded the Betty Lou Ourisman Breast Health Center at Georgetown University when his wife passed away in 1992. Locally, Ourisman Frederick has supported Tour De Frederick, SOAR (Supporting Older Adults through Resources), the FCPS LYNX program at Frederick High School and is a founding donor of Sky Stage.

Most notable is that the entire management staff at Ourisman Frederick consists of local community members. They went to school here and their kids go to school here. They shop and eat in downtown Frederick and along the Golden Mile. They are part of the fabric of Frederick!

We had a chance to get to know five of the leaders at Ourisman Frederick: Greg Thornton, Matthew Diorio, Sam Schroeder, Jordan Stickelman and David Hanna. They love raising their families, cultivating long-term client relationships and serving the Frederick community. OurismanFrederick.com

GREG THORNTON

GENERAL MANAGER/ MANAGING PARTNER

Years Living in Frederick Area: All of ‘em!

WHAT’S YOUR RECIPE FOR LONG-TERM SUCCESS?

Putting client and team member needs first, doing as much listening as possible and trying to attack problems with a “why can’t we” rather than a “why should we” perspective. Developing a team is hard work and is not a quick venture. Once you put in that amount of time, you have to make sure they are going to be there for the long haul. Keeping the team informed, interested and involved is the real driver of long term success as long as you have built the right team.

WHAT’S YOUR RECIPE FOR BUILDING A SUCCESSFUL TEAM?

Personal ownership is a powerful concept. It isn’t always comfortable, especially at first, but it is an absolute must for our team. Ensuring our team is comfortable with taking intelligent risks and being willing to embrace failure when it doesn’t quite work out is a big part of that. Giving an individual enough responsibility to make a decision and have it go right is so much more powerful when they have that personal level of ownership. And if it doesn’t go right, the team being there to support and work through it with them…That all stems, for us, from a tenured staff of management who takes personal ownership in their own departments. Together they manage around 80 employees and accounted for about $90 million dollars in revenue in 2022.

WHAT’S YOUR RECIPE FOR A HEALTHY WORK-LIFE BALANCE?

There are non-negotiables for home-life balance…It is important that your team members know that you genuinely want them to make time for their child’s game, or dinner with their spouse…Once the staff knows you’re genuine about wanting that for them, it should fall into place. For myself personally…my wife “Suz” is a great mother/wife and holds it down for us so that the time when I can be at home can be focused on being with the family.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO FOR FUN?

I golf and fish quite a bit; involving the kids in those activities...makes them even more fun.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FATHER’S DAY MEMORY?

Our daughter, Madison, taking her first steps on Father’s Day is definitely my best memory!

MATTHEW DIORIO

PRE-OWNED DIRECTOR

Years Living in Frederick Area: 24

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CAR?

The 2022 Audi A5 Sportback we ordered for my wife, Angie, is by far my favorite car. I’ve always driven pre-owned Subarus (currently on my 4th), and in September 2021, we ordered exactly what she wanted. The car took 10 months to arrive during the microchip shortage, but it was well worth the wait. Her delight in driving that car makes it my favorite.

WHAT’S YOUR RECIPE FOR SUCCEEDING IN A CROWDED MARKET?

Be better. That is really easy to say, but in the pre-owned vehicle business, it’s really hard to do. I’m not naïve about the fact that “used car sales” carries a certain stigma.

Over the last eight years I’ve built processes and culture that make for an excellent, customer focused, quality-first approach to provide our local community with a posted price shopping experience that is transparent and efficient.

WHAT’S YOUR RECIPE FOR LONG-TERM SUCCESS?  Helping make others successful never hurts your own success. I continue to try and lift others and show them their potential. The dealership business has a vast array of opportunities and career paths within one store and helping find positions where employees can excel… Having a good team in place across all departments (new sales, used sales, service and parts) elevates everyone’s game and allows us to capitalize on opportunities in the market while increasing customer satisfaction.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO FOR FUN?

I build Legos, play video games and watch cartoons. I play golf and read (I’m a big Stephen King fan). I also enjoy travel.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FATHER’S DAY MEMORY?  Quick story. My wife and I got married a little more than 4 years ago and she had a grown daughter, Stephanie. I have no children of my own, but while I never did any Dad stuff growing up she still makes me feel like an important part of her life. She has made it a point to wish me a Happy Father’s Day for the past 4 years… I’m already looking forward to the next one.

SAM SCHROEDER

VOLVO SALES MANAGER

Years Living in Frederick Area: 42 (I was born and raised here. My grandparents moved here in the early 50’s and my mom graduated from Frederick High School.)

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CAR?

Honestly, it’s hard to imagine a car nicer than an Audi or a Volvo (even if it wasn’t how I made a living). If I had to pick one, I would say a 1977 Ford Bronco because my Grandad used to drive one and he was one of my heroes. He operated a dairy farm in Ijamsville where my mom was raised, was a lawyer for the Washington Gas company, and was a WW2 and Korean War Veteran. I have many fond memories as a kid riding in the Bronco with him and my grandma.

WHAT’S YOUR RECIPE FOR LONG-TERM SUCCESS?

I believe long-term success in any business comes down to staff development. Obviously, I’m decent at selling cars or Greg wouldn’t have put me in the position I’m in;

but to have an entire department consistently succeed under you is the best compliment any sales manager can get because that means the staff is well-trained (not that Volvo is 100% there yet!)  I learned everything I know about the car business from the managers that were here when I started selling cars, including some that still are and would like to develop some sales guys I have now into management eventually.

WHAT ARE YOUR THREE FAVORITE THINGS TO DO IN FREDERICK?

My favorites include: taking my beautiful wife Heather (and kids) out to dinner on the patio at Monocacy Crossing, going to any one of the local parks in Urbana where I live to play with my kids and playing golf with my good buddies from Ourisman.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FATHER’S DAY MEMORY?

My favorite Father’s Day memory is any of the last 3 that I have had both kids for sure.  Usually involves grilling at my house with the other neighborhood dads and taking it easy.  I also try to get a round of golf in with my dad, who at 73 years old, still puts in on me!

JORDAN STICKELMAN

AUDI BRAND SALES MANAGER

Years Living in Frederick Area: I moved here from Arizona 14 years ago and have always lived in Frederick County. My wife’s family is from Middletown and we have lived in the heart of Middletown for about 13 years.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CAR?

Being with the Audi brand for over 10 years, I have drank the kool-aid. I miss the blue Sepang 2015 Audi S4 I owned. I loved that car.

WHAT ARE YOU MOST PASSIONATE ABOUT?

I find a lot of passion and joy out of getting to know new people. The auto industry is a great business because we get to meet new people every day. The opportunity to make a friend, share my passion for the Audi brand and earn someone’s business really energizes me.

WHAT’S YOUR RECIPE FOR BUILDING A SUCCESSFUL TEAM?

Culture is huge to me. I think that if my team enjoys where they work, that bleeds over to the conversations they have with our customers. I believe continuous training on new products and technologies in our vehicles helps our staff to accurately find the right vehicle for our clients. For me it comes down to the experience our team provides. People usually buy from people they know, like and trust. I want all of my team members to provide an experience the same way they would to a family member purchasing a car.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO FOR FUN?

I try to spend as much time with my family as possible. I have two younger children who are growing fast. I also enjoy doing the typical dad stuff like playing golf and poker.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FATHER’S DAY MEMORY?

One that comes to mind is enjoying Father’s Day at Big Cork Vineyard with the family. Our wedding anniversary is around Father’s Day weekend as well and it was the same day that particular weekend. There is a lot to be grateful for.

DAVID HANNA

SERVICE DIRECTOR

Years Living in Frederick Area: Born and raised!

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO FOR FUN?

I enjoy spending time with my son, hearing about his day and watching him grow up. Additionally, I collect vinyl records and enjoy gardening. In my free time I hike the Appalachian Trail with my wife.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO IN FREDERICK?

Love going to Spinners Pinball Arcade, local breweries & wineries and eating out in downtown Frederick.

Matt Owens, CFP® Financial

3562 Worthington Blvd. Suite 101 Frederick, MD 21704 240 341-0900

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

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FREDERICK SPORTS MURAL

WHERE LEGENDS COME TO LIFE

ARTICLE BY KRISTEN WOJDAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TGP GIVES

The Frederick Sports Mural will break ground outside of Harry S. Grove Stadium in early June 2023. The two-million-dollar project is a collaboration of TGP Gives and Community Arts, Inc. and will span 7,700 square feet, honoring 250 exceptional athletes representing over 30 sports. Included are athletes from 1895 through 2020.

Mural Athlete and Alderman Derek Shackleford, Alderman Kelly Russell, Economic Development Director Richard Griffin and Mayor Michael O’Connor are some of the first to support the vision for the Mural. The City of Frederick has made it possible for the Frederick Sports Mural to become a reality.

Support and funding have come from many local sources, including: Phil Hammond and the Delaplaine Foundation investing $75,000, Caylee Winpigler and the Ausherman Family Foundation investing $25,000, Frederick County investing $50,000 and the State of Maryland for investing $200,000. In addition, multiple members of the Key City Rotary are currently helping to fundraise and promote the mural project.

This historic mural will be one of the largest in the world with full color portraits completed by a single artist, Yemi Fagbohun. Yemi is well-known in Frederick County for his community-centered projects and he collaborates with towns across the region to design highly-collectible keepsakes highlighting area landmarks. Courtyard by Marriott, The Common Market, Creekside Plaza and many more locations are home to his large historic murals and glass installations.

The mural showcases the rich history of athletics in Frederick County over the past 125 years and includes almost exclusively

professional athletes, Olympic athletes, International athletes, US Olympic Tiral athletes, NCAA Division I All-Americans and NCAA Division I All-Conference athletes—along with a few outstanding coaches and a Preakness winning horse. The earliest athlete, Carlton Molesworth, played professional baseball in the National League in 1895. The youngest honoree, Saylor Poffenbarger, is a female basketball player who won a Gold Medal at the 2019 FIBA Americas U16 Championship and qualified for the U17 World Championships.

Due to its proximity to MD Route 355 and Interstate 70, there will be more than 44 million views per year of the mural from these roads. Expect this to be the hottest new tourist attraction to Frederick!

We asked a few people close to the project to share about what the Frederick Sports Mural means to them and here’s what they had to say:

JOE GATEWOOD, OWNER AND DIRECTOR OF TGP GIVES

I want people to know how passionate so many people are about this project, and how much work has gone into bringing this idea to fruition. The 250 athletes who have been chosen are so honored and excited to be on the wall and be permanently acknowledged for their achievements. We have athletes represented from every decade between 1890 to 2020, embodying a diversity of sports, races, genders and mobilities, which signifies Frederick County’s complex and successful sports landscape. This project is 8 years in the making, which makes the groundbreaking even more significant.

ROB HAVENSTEIN, OFFENSIVE TACKLE FOR LOS ANGELES RAMS

The sports mural is important to Frederick because it puts a spotlight on a lot of great athletes who have come out of a relatively small area. Frederick has consistently produced athletes on all levels and I’m proud to have my name in the mix with some other amazing athletes.

The mural will be one of the largest sports murals ever completed by a single artist. Pretty cool just on its own...There is also an opportunity for people to include a coach, mentor or loved one on the bleacher section of the mural to honor their legacy. For example, I believe [my high school football coach] Rick Conner is over qualified to be included on the mural so I pledged a campaign to raise $25,000 to get Rick on the mural.

Frederick is just such a special place to be from and I’m proud to be from Maryland—and Frederick specifically. A small state that might lose out on the national spotlight but the people who know, know that Maryland—and Frederick specifically—is an amazing place.

YEMI FAGBOHUN, AWARD-WINNING ARTIST

When finished, the mural will be the world's largest sports mural, by a single artist, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. This will make our mural, the 'Sistine Chapel' of sports. A destination for people worldwide...helping to lift all boats in our community, from tourism to real estate to the local stores.

Frederick is a very rich vein of world-class athletes, and has been for decades. It is something of a paradox why Frederick

Artwork of NFL player, Chuck Foreman, and Olympic track coach, Jack Griffin.

Artwork of MLB player, Charlie Keller.

has produced so many world-class athletes, but it has! We will tell the inspiring story of each athlete, not only in the art, but with our accompanying book and using QR codes, online as well. This has been a labor of love for all of us on the team…We have all burned the midnight oil to the Mural to this pivotal point, and are all excited to be on the journey as a team.

MARY ELLEN MITCHELL, COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT CONSULTANT

One of the things I love best about the Mural is that through art we will see how our County has changed over the past 125 years. Frederick is a microcosm of the impact of national issues like racial equality, gender parity and opportunities for persons with disabilities in athletics. The mural will show us who we were and how we have come to be in 14-foot images that tell stories of individual achievement and inspiration.

TONY “C” CHECCHIA, BOARD CHAIR AND OWNER OF VCRE.CO

The idea of the Frederick Sports Mural was born out of chance. The vision was born out of passion. The creation of the mural will be a result of years of work, collaboration and persistence. To be able to realize the original vision for the mural upon its completion and to share the mural with the community, the County, the State and the World...will truly be legendary.

To donate, please text FSM23 to 71777.

See the list of athletes selected to be on the Frederick Sports Mural and find out how you can get involved:

FREDERICKSPORTSMURAL.ORG

SUCCESS IS ALL IN YOUR MIND

People don’t come to escape the room, they come to escape the world.

It’s a game. It’s fun. It’s sixty minutes of riddles and clues that provide an opportunity for your cleverness and creativity to be rewarded. It’s not an escape from danger, it’s an escape from the stress of life. All you have to do to leave the room is turn the doorknob and walk out. But, then you leave all the fun, too.

What is “it?” Surelocked In Escape Games.

AN IDEA SPARKED FOR THE SPARKS

Chris Sparks and his two younger brothers were big game players as children. “The first escape game I ever played was a point-and-click adventure online as a teenager,” Chris said. “In 2015, while on a family vacation in Colorado, we decided to go to an actual escape room. We loved it!”

Returning home, the family decided to bring their own take on the escape room idea to Frederick. On the Friday after Thanksgiving, 2016, they opened Surelocked In Escape Games (a Game Overlords, L.L.C. production). Initially open only on weekends, they quickly sold out. Within a month, they had recovered their initial investment. Before the year was out, Chris quit his job to run the family business full-time.

Chris manages Surelocked In and designs the games. His father, an engineer and carpenter, builds the unique puzzles. His mother is a whiz at finding the unique props and set pieces that bring the rooms to life.

CHALLENGES ARE POPULAR

Currently, there are four escape game experiences. The difficulty of each challenge varies. The games range upward from a 4% success rate, to 25%, 33% and 40% percent. Many will enter, few will win.

One of the toughest rooms is Santa-themed, even when the holiday is over. “Yes, I know, it’s not the Christmas season now,” Chris granted. “But, we keep offering each experience until the tickets stop selling. That room was still selling out on Palm Sunday!”

The Great Santascape and Tyrannosolveus Rex experiences both offer child-friendly alternatives to the standard adult games. The fact that Chris has incorporated opportunities for children is not surprising. Chris was a Catholic youth minister for three and a half years before the family’s idea blossomed and he became a full-time Game Master.

The most difficult room they’ve designed, The Witching Hour, has only a 4% player success rate, yet it remains their most popular game. “That’s the only game in the area that is played entirely in the dark,” Chris said. “Darkness challenges people’s critical thinking skills...It’s popular because it’s so tough.”

THREE CLUES AND LOTS OF EXPERIENCES

Game Masters monitor players in each room to ensure player safety and provide assistance. “You have three, but only three, chances to ask the Game Master a question,” Chris says. “Success or failure in your mission is up to you.”

ARTICLE BY KAREN JUSTICE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIE ROSE PHOTOGRAPHY

Chris Sparks is Sure to Challenge you at Surelocked In Escape Games

People play the games for a wide variety of reasons from date nights to birthday parties. At least one proposal has taken place in each of the escape rooms. “Giving people a fun escape for an hour with puzzles and their loved ones has a magic to it,” Chris shared. “People often say, ‘I don’t remember the last time I had this much fun!’”

“We’re popular because exciting experiences are eternal,” Chris said. “People love experiences, especially ones they can keep retelling the story of again and again.”

Surelocked In also creates off-premises events such as gender reveals, proposals, birthday parties, retirement parties and anniversary celebrations. “Whatever people want to celebrate, we can build a game for it,” Chris says. “We can use office space, a tent, the great outdoors or even a hotel meeting room.”

FROM EMPTY TO EVERYWHERE

It was an off-premise request that helped Surelocked In recover from the mandatory Covid-related closing. Recognizing that things were going to be different in 2020, Celebrate Frederick approached the Game Overlords with a request: since Chris and company had been creating scavenger hunts for First Saturdays for a few years, would the Game Overlords be willing to create a game to replace The Great Frederick Fair? Thus, the Great Frederick Scavenger Hunt was born as a way to get people back into town!

It was the beginning of their evolution. Discovered by colleges as an adventurous way to provide students with an orientation to the college campus and community, Game Overlords staff members have been flying all over the country to create and manage unique orientation-specific scavenger hunts. Corporations, churches and organizations are also requesting games for staff training, meetings and events.

Chris Sparks is often heard to say, “To whom much is given, much is expected.” Since his days as a youth minister, he has been involved in community service. He’s an alumnus of Leadership Frederick County, has served on Frederick County Chamber’s Generation Connect Committee, is much in demand as Santa, gave a TEDx talk at Hood College and advocates for more public services for the local ALICE population.

INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION

Five years after creating his first escape room game in 2016, Chris Sparks won international acclaim. The global organization  EscapeTheRoomers named him Player’s Choice Game Master of the Year in 2021, and awarded him the Bullseye Gold Medal. His competition was from far-ranging Brazil, Canada, Germany, Great Britain, Mexico, Russia, South Africa and beyond.

Chris grew up in Frederick County and was very active in Urbana High School’s theater program. “I did musicals, plays, improv and stagecraft,” he said. “The latter helped give me the skills for creating the escape rooms.” The other aspects of his life just make him who he is today: a community-minded, successful, international-award-winning Game Master running a family business that was inspired by vacation fun. SurelockedIn.com

The Witching Hour

The Great Santascape Tyrannosolveus Rex

Grateful for the support his lifetime dreams have received, Chris engages Surelocked In Escape Games as a vehicle of community support.

COMMUNITY COLLABORATIONS

• I Believe In Me

• Soles of Love in the Garden

• Love For Lochlin

• Big Brothers Big Sisters

• SHIP

• YMCA

• Downtown Frederick Partnership

• Frederick City Police Department Youth Police Academy

• The Literacy Council of Frederick County

• FCPS

• FCPS Lynx Program (speaker)

• The Rotary Club of Frederick

• Frederick Mental Health Association

• Fort Detrick

• Hood College

• Frederick County Chamber of Commerce

• National Museum of Civil War Medicine

• Heritage Frederick Historical Society

• Numerous churches/youth groups

Photography by T. Kowalsky Photography

ARTICLE BY KAREN JUSTICE PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIE ROSE PHOTOGRAPHY

GROWING A FAMILY BUSINESS

age of 18. His youngest son, Jacob, began at 14. They continued their father’s work.

How do brothers manage to share a company once owned by only one person? “We focus on staying in our lanes,” Jacob said. “while still coordinating the work and the overall company commitments. Jacob manages landscaping and maintenance, as well as landscape design. Peter does all the hardscaping designs and projects.

NEW IDEAS. NEW TRENDS.

THE NEXT GENERATION TAKES IT TO THE NEXT LEVEL

In 1989, Scot Morrow decided to purchase an existing business and gave root to what would become Frederick Landscaping.

Professional landscaping design had become popular in the early part of the 1900s, but by the beginning of the 1990s, more people were paying attention to the yards around their homes. Their do-it-yourself projects gave rise to Home Depot and Lowes. However, those creative projects took time and life started getting much busier. Scot’s timing was great.

DIY MEETS DO-IT-FOR-ME

The interest in attractive and welcoming home exteriors hadn’t faded. The time that homeowners had to devote to maintaining them did. In addition to the existing commercial grounds maintenance, the demand for home services grew. Frederick Landscaping grew as well.

Now, they serve a broad range of clients from homeowners to commercial property managers, builders, municipalities and government agencies.

Although Scot stepped away in 2019, his son, Peter, had started working in the business at the

To stay up to date with the trends, products, and regulations, etc., Jacob attends the National Association of Landscape Professional trade shows. Every year brings new ideas. Different colors of bedding plants become popular. Outdoor living products improve. “Growers usually introduce new plants to the professionals first,” Jacob said. “The hardscape companies, however, do direct to consumer advertising. The trends in that area are more rapidly requested by customers.”

LIVING OUTSIDE

In recent years, there’s been increased focus on updating outside living spaces beyond landscaped lawns and gardens. “More products are now readily available to the general public, rather than being custom orders,” Jacob stated. “Folks are adding fancy lights, gas stoves, refrigeration, sound, televisions, even wine coolers,” he added. “It’s not just a gas grill on a fancy patio anymore.”

GO NATURAL

Some old ideas are replaced by trends. Some last forever. Dry-laid stone walls are one of those age old ideas. You can find 600 year old dry stone walls in many places in England and Europe. While Frederick County residents may not plan to stay in their homes quite that long, dry stone walls add more than longevity. They fit the ongoing move toward more natural elements in our homes.

Peter regularly attends training and certification with the Dry Stone Conservatory. He’s trained to not only build dry stone walls but also preserve

and repair them. Those skills are a perfect fit with the rock resources in Frederick County.

WHAT’S COMING

Robots have expanded beyond factories and rolling house vacuums. Robotic mowers can be “trained” to a homeowners yard. Currently, they have limitations; one of which is requiring wires to set their boundaries. The wires can get cut or damaged. The size of lawn a robot can manage is limited, too, because they run on batteries. Plus, robotic lawnmowers need some attention and supervision.

“Despite the robotics, professional lawn maintenance will always have its place,” Jacob commented. “So many other elements need attention. Clean-up, pruning, trimming, planting, fertilizing, edge maintenance and just general beautification are still required for healthy, attractive home and commercial properties,” he said. “Frederick Landscape will always remain focused on managing the overall client needs.”

Serving client needs is a solid aspect of their company culture according to Jacob. As in nearly every other business, communication is key. Especially communication with their employees.

“We have three principles,” Jacob said. “Be professional. Do what we say. Be better tomorrow than we are today.” He then added, “I think the last one wraps our beliefs together. Always strive to be better.”  FrederickLandscaping.org

Photo provided by Frederick Landscaping.

Photo provided by Frederick Landscaping.

MAKE AN IMPACT FOR DAD

What do you buy for the man who has everything? Perhaps an experience oriented around what dads value most – time together – is just what he needs. Fathers and father figures are invaluable in our lives. They help shape and mold us. They’re there for us and support us. If you haven’t already planned something special, take a look at our list of ideas and circle your favorites. If you have kids, let them join in the fun too!

Whether you decide to spend a day at home or enjoy a day on the town, these innovative celebration ideas will include fun for the whole family and make Dad feel loved. Whatever activity or surprise you land on to show your dad, husband, brother or father figure your appreciation for all they do, the most important thing is that you all get to spend some quality time together.

Memorable Ways to Celebrate The Father Figure in Your Life

LEARN ABOUT HIS FAMILY TREE

Family heritage websites can offer insight into dad’s past and be an interesting way to study the history of your family. Present Dad with a report on his ancestors or dig in together!

PLAN A STAYCATION

You don’t need to go very far to have a great time with Dad! Explore a new neck of your own woods with a family staycation. You can go out on the town, stay at a fancy hotel and maybe even enjoy some room service!

GO BIRD WATCHING

Lay out a blanket in your backyard and grab your binoculars for a peaceful, naturefilled day. Make a list of how many different kinds of birds you see and guess if you can identify them.

GO BOWLING

Bowling is a timeless classic Dad is sure to enjoy. Bonus if the bowling alley has an arcade, chicken wings and Dad’s favorite beverage of choice.

PLAY FRISBEE GOLF AS A FAMILY

Find a local frisbee golf course and grab a slot for the family to play. This activity is fun for both young and old and helps you take advantage of being in the beautiful outdoors together.

Special Needs Trusts Wealth Management

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

JUNE 1ST - 30TH

Making Memories

While We Wait

5 EAST 2ND STREET

The Frederick Arts Council (FAC) presents a large-scale exhibition by artist Khánh H. Lê, titled “Making Memories While We Wait,” featuring colorful painting, photographic collages and dramatic cut paper hangings that stretch from floor to ceiling. The art center is open Tuesday-Sunday, 11am - 5pm.  FrederickArtsCouncil.org

JUNE 1ST - 30TH

The New Wolf Woods is Open! CATOCTIN WILDLIFE

PRESERVE, THURMONT, MD

The first phase of the new habitat for the wolves is now open to the public. Enjoy the wolves along with hundreds of exotic animals in this 50-acre park. Open daily, weather permitting. Day passes and annual memberships available. CatoctinWildlifePreserve.com

JUNE 2ND

Veteran Art Exhibit

PLATOON VETERAN SERVICES

CENTER AT GOODWILL | 5:30 PM

An art exhibit showcasing art created by Veterans, military affiliated personnel and families. The art collection, titled "The Faces of 22", pays tribute to the lives represented with the hope to bring awareness to the epidemic facing our Veterans. Funds raised during this fundraising event will go to programs that support local Veterans and first responders. Platoon22.org

preserving your legacy. Every decision that Family Heritage makes is rooted in trust: it’s the essence of our company name, our business philosophy, and our mission.

JUNE 3RD, 9TH, 16TH, 17TH, 23RD & 30TH Baseball & Fireworks

HARRY S. GROVE STADIUM, 21 STADIUM DRIVE

Cheer for the Frederick Keys (MLB Draft League) and the new Frederick Atlantic League Professional Baseball team (name announcement soon) and stay for fireworks! See full schedule and get tickets at  MLBDraftLeague.com/Frederick and FrederickAtlanticLeague.com

JUNE 4TH, 11TH, 18TH & 25TH Summer Concert Series

BAKER PARK BAND SHELL, 121 NORTH BENTZ STREET | 7:00PM

Enjoy free, high-quality musical entertainment on Sunday nights at Baker Park band Shell. In lieu of admission, attendees are invited to bring a canned food item to donate to the Frederick Food Bank.  CelebrateFrederick.com

JUNE 10TH - 11TH Frederick Festival of the Arts

CARROLL CREEK LINEAR PARK

The Frederick Festival of the Arts, a juried two-day fine arts festival is held on June 10 and 11 along Carroll Creek Linear Park in downtown Frederick. The event attracts thousands of visitors and features over 100 artists from across the country, a beer & wine garden, food vendors, and artist demonstrations. FrederickArtsCouncil.org

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Frederick

Leadership Frederick County Celebrates 35 Years!

BUILDING A STRONGER FREDERICK: A LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP FREDERICK COUNTY

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER GERLOCK PHOTOGRAPHY BY FREDERICK COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Leadership Frederick County (LFC) marks its 35th anniversary this year having trained and graduated more than 1,300 leaders in Frederick County since 1988.

The purpose of the program is to transform a diverse and highly motivated group of individuals into a network of leaders who are intimately connected and equipped with the knowledge and a commitment to benefit the entire community.

Over the years, alumni of LFC have made a tremendous impact on Frederick County and have gone on to lead as public servants, nonprofit executives and serve as catalysts for positive change in the region.

During their time as class members, participants get a behind-the-scenes understanding of the connected systems of the county, and the opportunity to have candid discussions with influencers and decision-makers in many areas including agriculture, economic development, public safety, education, arts and recreation, government and health and human services. Graduates emerge from the program viewing the region and its assets in a new and profound way and confident in their ability to tackle difficult issues and make an impact.

“The Leadership Frederick County program has been instrumental in the development of a robust pipeline of civic leaders who serve this community,” said Rick Weldon, President & CEO of the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce. “LFC graduates lead with integrity and have a passion for making a difference. The positive influence of the program in Frederick County over the years is undeniable.”

A formal celebration of Leadership Frederick County and its alumni will be held on June 8th at Union Mills Public House. The event will also mark the unveiling of new leadership awards highlighting the impact of outstanding alumni over the years. LeadershipFrederickCounty.com

FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY

PROSTHODONTICS

DENTAL IMPLANTS

CLEAR ALIGNERS

AESTHETIC TREATMENTS

Injectables and Fillers

Experience, Expertise, & Exceptional Smiles

PATIENT TESTIMONIALS

FOR BOARD-CERTIFIED PROSTHODONTIST, DR. OAKES:

“The best and kindest dentist I have ever been to. He definitely is a master of his craft and very patient with his clients. His staff is very friendly and happy to see you and the office runs smoothly. If you need major dental work done, Dr. Oakes is the dentist for you.”

DIPLOMATE, AMERICAN BOARD OF PROSTHODONTICS

“Always a great experience at Dental Arts of Frederick! Very friendly, knowledgeable, and comforting. I recommend them to anyone who mentions dentistry.”

KEVIN S. OAKES , DDS, FACP