Wellness

Building Strong Family Connections

One Family's Approach to Creating Connection, Building Traditions and Starting the School Year Strong Article by Danielle M. Rizzo and Family | Photography by Casey Dugue Photography, LLC, Liz Hough of Hough Photography I spend a lot of time helping adults and business owners get clear on what they want, build systems that work, and close the gap between where they are and where they want to be. But my greatest leadership laboratory has always been home. I'm a solo mom to four kids: Cadence...

Sports + Recreation

ELEVATEing Education

How a New Homeschool Co-Op in Frederick Is Building Students, Strengthening Families and Creating Community. Article by Jeremy & Kristen Wojdan | Photography by Rudy Marsh, Lytebox Photography Homeschooling has experienced significant growth across the country, with millions of K–12 students now learning in home-based educational settings. Nationally, approximately 5–6% of school-aged children are homeschooled, and that trend is reflected throughout Maryland. As homeschooling has grown, so has...

Life + Culture

More Than a Best Friend

How Pets Help Children Build Empathy, Confidence and Emotional Resilience Article by Sierra Stults | Photography by Shelby Stults There is a unique magic in growing up with a pet. Whether it’s a dog waiting by the front door after a long school day, a cat curled up on a bed during homework time or a puppy teaching a busy family about patience, our animals do far more than fill our homes with joy. They serve as some of our greatest teachers. For kids, learning to live with and care for an...

Health + Wellness

Leading with Heart

Frederick Health CEO Cheryl Cioffi Reflects on Family, Community and the Compassion That Shapes Her Leadership Article by Dr. Cheryl Cioffi As CEO of Frederick Health, what’s the most rewarding part of serving local families in our community? I grew up in Frederick County, so this work is deeply personal to me. The most rewarding part is hearing stories from patients and families who have received excellent care. Being part of an organization that cares for my own community is a privilege...

Arts + Culture

The Colorful Route Through Frederick

Exploring Downtown Through Public Art Article by Sierra Stults Awareness of Being 22 S. Market St. Created by artist Karen Pollard, this peaceful mural portrays a woman surrounded by flowing color and natural imagery. Painted on the Federated Charities building, the artwork encourages reflection, mindfulness and a deeper connection to both nature and self. Lester Bowie Mural 69 S. Market St. Artist Rafael Blanco honors Frederick-born jazz legend Lester Bowie with this striking...

Arts + Culture

The Dawn's Early Light

Revisiting the Frederick Roots of a Global Anthem Article by Sierra Stults | Photography by Matt Long As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of its founding, the spotlight often falls on the cobblestones of Philadelphia. Yet, for those willing to explore their own backyard, the echoes of our nation’s birth are much closer than many think. Woven into our skyline and etched into the names of our schools and shopping centers. To understand the American story is to understand...

Travel

Into the Wild

Rediscovering Frederick’s Wild Frontier on Trails and the Water Article by Sierra Stults You don’t need a passport to find a total escape. While the heart of Frederick beats in its historic streets, a different world lay just beyond the city limits. By trading pavement for river currents and mountain paths, residents can rediscover their home through the lens of a traveler. From the Monocacy’s hidden bends to the Potomac’s rugged banks, adventure is calling. The Great Escape: Finding...

Food + Beverage

Stars, Stripes & Hotdogs

An Elevated Classic Recipe Packed with a New Twist on Nostalgic Flavor Article by Sierra Stults The 4th of July is often a whirlwind of heat and backyard cookouts. This year, if you're looking for something a little more adventurous, we may have the move for you. Enter... The retro carnival hot dog with an elevated twist. Inspired by my grandma's eclectic cooking style, it’s the kind of dish that instantly feels nostalgic while still bringing something unexpected to the table. While the...

Education

Leaders on Tap

A Live Conversation Series Where Maryland Leaders Share the Stories — The Good, the Bad and the Redemptive Article by David Weigelt | Photography by Provided It started on a Wednesday evening with a message from a local business leader I barely knew. He asked if we could meet at his office—a space that, upon my arrival, felt beautiful but unusually quiet. He invited me in, closed the door and moved his chair from behind his desk.  Over the next ten minutes, this man, a person with a...

Life + Culture

The Frederick Man

Local Men Reflect on the Moments & Mindsets That Define Them Photography by Provided Cameron Harris Co-Owner, Purple Donut Studios What do you love most about living in Frederick County? The balance between city and rural life...Being able to breathe fresh air and still be five minutes from a grocery store. And the gorgeous sunsets. What does success look like to you right now? Building a business that can support not just my family, but other creatives who might not be able to...