Education

Choosing the Perfect Summer Camp

Summer is a time for children to explore, grow, and create unforgettable memories. For parents, choosing the right summer camp is about finding a place where their child will be safe, happy, and inspired. Whether you're a seasoned camp parent or exploring this option for the first time, here's what you should know about making the most of your child's summer experience. 1. Why Summer Camp?Summer camp offers more than just fun. It’s an opportunity for children to develop independence, build...

Home + Design

Valentine's Centerpiece

How to Create Festive and Eye Catching Decor for Any Occasion Article by Sierra Moore | Photography by Janie Jones Transform your decor with a unique, homemade and locally loved valentine’s tree centerpiece! It's versatile, eco-conscious, supports local and is perfect for sparking the creativity of the little ones. Plus, with a little adjusting, it can be easily repurposed for other holidays throughout the year. Step 1: Gather and Prepare Your Materials Head outside and collect a few...

Wellness

Saving More Than a Life

Hope, Recovery and Unlikely Friendship Article by Sierra Moore A Life on the Line On October 22, 2022, Corporal Sara Leishear was going about her typical duties as an assistant supervisor with the Frederick Police Department. Assigned to the Patrol Division and bringing over a decade of experience to her role, she was prepared for a range of high-pressure calls. But on this particular morning, a call came through that would profoundly alter not just her life but that of Dakota, a man facing...

Life + Culture

Winter Round Up

Shake Off the Winter Blues with Cozy Escapes for Everyone Article by Sierra Moore February may be chilly and gray, but shake off the winter blues and brighten your days with our Winter Round-Up. Find the magic of connection through unique and rejuvenating experiences right around the corner. Stay warm, stay local and let the last of winter’s charm shine from the comfort of your own cozy retreat. Make Your Own Fresh Bouquet | Frederick Floral Bar  27 S Market St, Frederick |...

Arts + Culture

Full-Circle Moments & Still Moving Forward

African Americans of Excellence 2025 Reflect on Past Changes and Hopes for the Future Article by Emily Holland | Photography by Terry Ali, Esther Davis, Alexandra Edwards, Tiffany Kowalsky, Rudy Marsh, Jennifer Varriale Scott Ambush Like many who find a full-fledged career in music, Scott Ambush grew up surrounded by other musicians. His mother sang in a traveling gospel group, and he remembers her love of artists such as Curtis Mayfield and Aretha Franklin. When he was 12 years old, he...

Local Services

What We Have is Special

Frederick County’s Chamber of Commerce Fosters What Makes Frederick Unique Article by Emily Holland | Photography by Jennifer Rosaria Film & Photography He admits that he might be biased, but Frederick County Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Rick Weldon believes he has the best job in Frederick. Why is that? Because he has the privilege of serving primarily small businesses in a uniquely passionate community. “We have just under 1000 members,” he says, “and of those, 90% employ fewer than...

Food + Beverage

Peel of Approval

Fuel Your Morning with the Fresh, Vibrant Boost of Oranges and Beets Article and Photography by Patricia Conte Ingredients: 3/4 cup orange juice 1/4 cup beet juice 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon agave nectar (you could also use honey or maple syrup to taste) 1/4 teaspoon dried turmeric 1/4 teaspoon dried ginger Instructions: Add the orange juice, lemon juice, agave nectar, turmeric and ginger to a bowl. Whisk to combine. Add a handful...

Wellness

From Hustle to Authenticity

Finding Balance in the Pursuit of Success Article by Aaron Vander Meer of Peak Perspective Coaching What happens when the drive for more leaves you feeling less? When striving turns into surviving? In these moments, I have learned that authenticity can be a powerful antidote, creating space for rest, connection and the courage to admit: “I just need a break.” Society seems to demand that we constantly strive for the next thing; volunteer for the charity event, play in the sports league...

Fitness

Empowered & Supported

The X Paves a Sustainable Path to Real Results Article by Sierra Moore | Photography by Jennifer Rosaria Film & Photography You’ve walked into dozens of gyms over the years, each one promising change, each one saying, “This time will be different.” You’ve tried every new routine, different diets, every app that promised it had the solution. You’ve been through that initial wave of excitement—you’ve even had some early results. But eventually, life crept in and old habits took hold...self-doubt...

Wellness

A Catalyst of Kindness

Erica & Allison's Story—The Power of Selflessness in the Face of Adversity Article by Sierra Moore | Photography by Chris Martin of Convoy Creatives In a heartwarming story of friendship, faith and resilience, two Frederick women, Erica and Allison, have forever bonded over an extraordinary act of kindness—one that quite literally gave Erica the gift of life.  Originally from Nebraska, Erica has devoted her life to caring for others. After serving as a military nurse in the army, she...