Support Local Frederick

05/29/2026

Middletown Valley Bank (“MVB” or “the Bank”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Community Heritage Financial, Inc., is proud to announce a new branch in Oakland, MD. The branch will be located at 19509 Garrett Highway, Suite 5, in the same property where MVB has operated a business development office since 2019. The office will transition to a branch in Fall 2026, and will offer teller services, including an ATM and night drop, as well as deposit account opening, consumer lending, and cash management services. This branch will also house the mortgage and commercial lending services that have been present in the community since 2019.

“We are thrilled to expand Middletown Valley Bank’s offerings in Oakland and better serve the needs of Garrett County. This new branch reflects our continued commitment to building strong community relationships, supporting local businesses, and investing in the future of our markets,” says Robert “BJ” Goetz, Jr, President and Chief Executive Officer.

MVB exemplifies the enduring strength and importance of community banking. Jerry Merrick, EVP – Mortgage Market Leader, adds, “As someone who has raised a family right here in Garrett County, this new branch means a great deal to me. I’ve seen firsthand how important it is for people to have the right support when they are buying a home and building their future together. I’m proud that we have brought a relationship-focused approach to lending in this community, and I’m excited to continue helping families achieve their homeownership goals.”

Jordan Rohrbaugh, Commercial Relationship Associate, says, “We are proud to continue building on the strong foundation we have established in Garrett County with the opening of our new Oakland Branch. We look forward to supporting both new and established relationships and continuing to invest in the long-term success and economic vitality of the area.”

Middletown Valley Bank provides personal and business banking services, as well as residential mortgage lending services through its MVB Home Loans division. The cornerstone of the MVB brand is built on providing Absolutely Exceptional Experiences to its customers and communities, one experience at a time. Originating in Middletown, Maryland in 1908, today the Bank operates offices in the Maryland counties of Frederick, Washington, and Garrett, and Franklin County, Pennsylvania. For more information, visit www.mvbbank.com.

05/15/2026

The Frederick Arts Council held a public art competition to choose a public art installation to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Frederick Arts Council. The FAC selected Lusmerlin Lantigua to design the Black-Eyed Susans that will be displayed across various locations in Frederick County, with the inaugural site positioned prominently in front of the YMCA Ausherman Art Center at 115 E Church St, Frederick.

Submissions for the temporary large-scale art installation were reviewed by the FAC Public Art Committee. Artists were encouraged to interpret the Black-Eyed Susan form expansively—literal, abstracted, symbolic, or conceptual—while maintaining a cohesive field-like visual experience from the individual flowers that read powerfully from both a distance and up close.

Lantigua’s winning submission includes 500 individual, metal-stamped Black-Eyed Susans. The number holds deep symbolic weight: 10 flowers for every year the Council has fostered creativity and cultural stewardship in Frederick.

“This project is part of our 50th Anniversary Celebration. The Black Eyed Susan is our state flower and symbolizes justice. We wanted to find a design that celebrated our 50th anniversary and our Maryland roots. Lantigua’s proposal did just that ,” said Louise Kennelly, Executive Director of the Frederick Arts Council.

“The installation serves as a tangible timeline, charting the community’s artistic evolution through the past half-century. Utilizing a repetition of 500 individual units, the design creates a commanding visual field across the landscape, illustrating the profound transformation the Council has championed in the region since its founding. Organized into "decade clusters," the arrangement symbolizes how distinct acts of creative stewardship coalesce into a grand, collective movement of cultural growth,” says Lantigus.

Public art enriches communities and transforms shared places into meaningful places that inspire connection. The FAC vision is a Frederick where public art connects residents and visitors, expresses an authentic and unique sense of place, drives economic prosperity through creativity, and advances a culturally inclusive and empowered future.

For more information about our public art master plan visit FAC-Master-Plan-2018-WEB.pdf

05/13/2026

The City of Frederick is making adjustments to select paid on-street parking areas in response to community feedback received following the transition to fully digital parking operations.

Effective immediately, several downtown parking zones that previously had a two-hour maximum stay have been expanded to allow up to four hours of parking. Under the updated system, visitors may renew their parking session for an additional two hours through ParkMobile, providing greater flexibility for those shopping, dining, or spending time downtown.

The following locations will now have a four-hour maximum parking limit:
· Market Street from All Saints Street to 6th Street
· Patrick Street from Carroll Street to College Avenue
· First block of East Church Street
· First block of West Church Street
· North Market Street Lot

The City’s Parking Department will continue to monitor all ParkMobile zones to ensure parking availability, efficiency, and the best possible experience for residents and visitors.

For additional parking information, visit www.cityoffrederickmd.gov/parking.

05/12/2026

Nominations for the 2026 Wertheimer Fellow for Excellence in Volunteerism
and Youth in Action Awards will be accepted May 1-31.

The Community Foundation of Frederick County is inviting the community to help shine a light on those who quietly make a difference.

Throughout the month of May, nominations will be accepted for the 2026 Wertheimer Fellow for Excellence in Volunteerism and the Youth in Action Awards—honoring individuals whose time, talent, and dedication strengthen Frederick County in meaningful ways.

These awards recognize the people who often work behind the scenes - those who give generously of themselves without seeking recognition, but whose impact is deeply felt across our community.

“Having seen this work up close for so many years, I can say with certainty that our community is shaped in powerful ways by people who simply choose to give of themselves,” said Elizabeth Y. “Betsy” Day, Community Foundation President and CEO. “These awards celebrate those individuals who are quietly moving Frederick County forward, whose generosity of time and spirit often goes unseen, but never unfelt - and remind us of what’s possible when care is put into action.”

The nomination form, as well as information about the awards and past awardees, is available at www.FrederickCountyGives.org/WertheimerAwards. Nominations must be submitted online and Individuals only need to be nominated once to be considered.

Now in its 24th year, the Wertheimer Fellow for Excellence in Volunteerism Award honors the legacy of the late Janis Miller Wertheimer, a respected businesswoman and dedicated volunteer. Made possible through The Janis Miller Wertheimer Endowment Fund, the award recognizes an adult volunteer (age 18+) whose service has made a lasting impact.

The Youth in Action Award, now in its 15th year, celebrates Frederick County students in grades 9–12 who are leading the way through service and making a difference in extraordinary ways.

Award recipients will be honored at the Community Foundation’s Annual Report to the Community on November 19. Wertheimer Fellows are awarded $25,000 to establish or grow a permanent fund with the Community Foundation to support the nonprofit or cause they care about, while the Youth in Action honoree will direct a $2,000 grant to a local nonprofit of their choice.

05/12/2026

The Frederick Arts Council (FAC) is hosting a kick-off cocktail party for the Festival of The Arts to celebrate the Frederick Arts Council’s 50th anniversary at 7th Sister Restaurant on June 12th, 2026 at 5p.

Guests will enjoy a curated selection of savory hors d'oeuvres and delightful drinks, fostering creative conversation within the elegant atmosphere of 7th Sister Restaurant and Garden on June 12th at 5pm. The evening will be complemented by live music performed by acclaimed local acoustic artist Terance Auleta.

This Cocktail Hour is an opportunity for the artists and arts supporters to mingle in a creative and collaborative environment as the community prepares for the Festival of the Arts weekend.

Silent auction items by the local artist community are available and will be on display at 7th Sister leading up to the event. An online auction will be available once items are on display late May 2026 via GiveButter.com. Proceeds benefit the artist and the Frederick Arts Council programming.

Show your support for our vibrant artist community by selecting the ticket option of sponsoring an artist to join the fun! Are you an artist looking to be sponsored? Send an email to [email protected] with your website or example of your work to be placed on the list. Confirmation of your sponsorship will be made via email.

The party starts on June 12th at 5pm. Tickets are $50 each.

The Festival of the Arts takes place June 13th and 14th (10a-5p) both days along Carroll Creek Linear Park, admission is free.

To purchase your ticket visit: https://givebutter.com/c/fac-anniversary-festival-happy-hour

05/12/2026

05/12/2026

Dear Community Members,

On behalf of On Our Own of Frederick County, Inc. a non-profit 501(c)3 Wellness and Recovery Center, we invite you to support the 7th Annual On Our Own of Frederick County Golf Tournament on Monday, June 15th, at Worthington Manor Golf Club in Urbana, Maryland.

Our mission is to provide peer support, advocacy, and essential resources for those facing mental health and substance use challenges. We believe that with the right support, recovery is possible for everyone.

We invite you to partner with us as a sponsor or donor for this important event. Your contribution will directly support our peer-led recovery programs, wellness workshops, and outreach initiatives, ensuring that individuals in our community have access to the support they need. Opportunities for sponsorship include:

Platinum $5,000 12 registrations/3 teams (12 players) – can be used as a scholarship for Peers to Play Prominent Banner at Registration Prominent logo signage at 9 different Tee Boxes, Putting Green, and Driving Range Acknowledgement on event marketing material
Champion $2,500 8 registrations/2 teams (8 players) – can be used as a scholarship for Peers to Play Banner at Registration Prominent logo signage at 9 different Tee Boxes, Putting Green and Driving Range Acknowledgement on event marketing material
Advocate $1,500 4 registrations/1 team (4 players) Logo signage at 9 different Tee Boxes Acknowledgement on event marketing material
Beverage Cart $500 (2 available) Logo signage on 1 Beverage cart for the event Acknowledgement on event marketing material
Ally $500 2 registrations Logo signage placed at 2 holes Acknowledgement on event marketing material Peer Experience $250 1 peer registration Signage at putting green and driving range (logo and/or message)
Practice Area $175 Signage at the putting green or driving range (logo and/or message)
Tee Sponsor $125 Signage at a golf tee (logo and/or message)
Register and pay for Golf Sponsorship at www.onourownfrederick.org. Donate a Business Service for a Door Prize – Your donation, name, and signage will be on display at the tournament. **If the value is equal to or greater than $125, receive Signage at a Tee. Please contact Nicole Robertson at [email protected] / 301-980-3528, or Rodney Stull at [email protected] / 240-9718275 about how you and your organization can support our worthy cause!

05/08/2026

Northern Neck Insurance Company and Frederick Mutual Insurance Company today announced that AM Best has affirmed an A- (Excellent) Financial Strength Rating for both companies following its review of the companies’ 2025 affiliation.
The rating extends Northern Neck’s A- rating to both companies, which now comprise The Northern Neck Group. AM Best assesses the group’s balance sheet strength as “very strong”, supported by risk-adjusted capitalization at the strongest level, disciplined underwriting, and sound risk management. AM Best assigned a stable outlook for the group following a review of consolidated operating performance and business plans.
“AM Best’s affirmation underscores the strength and stability of our combined companies,” said Peter Cammarata, President and CEO. “Northern Neck’s strong financial position enabled this affiliation, and by extending our disciplined financial and operational management across the organization, we are well positioned to grow as a trusted regional mutual focused on our members and independent agent partners.”
“A Stable outlook reflects confidence in our strength and our path forward,” added Nancy Newmister, Strategic Advisor and Former CEO of Frederick Mutual. “We remain focused on disciplined underwriting, expense control, and consistent performance as we continue serving policyholders alongside our independent agent partners.”
AM Best noted that the affiliation provides several strategic benefits, including product diversification, geographic expansion, increased capacity for profitable growth, and improved economies of scale. Northern Neck and Frederick Mutual will continue to operate under separate brands, preserving strong local presence and long-standing agent relationships. The affiliation also supports stability through shared oversight and centralized operations that strengthen financial discipline and improve efficiency.
With a combined 313 years of service, Northern Neck Insurance Company and Frederick Mutual Insurance Company deliver deep industry expertise, complementary personal and small commercial products, and highly responsive local support. Serving members across Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Delaware, and the District of Columbia, the organization supports more than 450 independent agency locations with a competitive product portfolio, personalized service, and a steadfast commitment to long‑term financial strength, growth, and profitability.

05/06/2026

Carroll Creek Linear Park will once more transform into an art and craft lover’s paradise during the 32nd Annual Frederick Festival of the Arts with Craft Marketplace. The free, outdoor event takes place June 13th – 14th from 10 am to 5 pm both days. The celebrated annual event features local and visiting fine artists and craft artisans in a prestigious showcase encompassing fine jewelry, exquisite works of art, and hand-crafted apparel and décor.

“The Frederick Festival of the Arts is one of our biggest events of the year. The Festival brings culture, education, economic growth, and community connection into a single vibrant experience It is a weekend for everyone to get together to share creativity, talent and love of art. There is sure to be something for everyone.” said Louise Kennelly, Executive Director of the Frederick Arts Council.

Presented by the Frederick Arts Council in partnership with Howard Alan Events (HAE), the Frederick Festival of the Arts with Craft Marketplace represents original, hand-crafted artwork selected by an independent panel of expert judges from hundreds of applicants. HAE’s careful vetting process also ensures a wide array of mediums and price ranges will be offered during the event. Ample parking is available and pets on leashes are always welcome.

Sponsorship opportunities are now available! Visit FrederickArtsCouncil.org or write to [email protected] to learn more.

Residents and visitors will have the opportunity to meet each artist and to discover the inspiration and process behind each creation during the two-day event.

Thank you to our generous sponsors including the City of Frederick, Natelli Communities, Leidos Biomedical and Three Roads Communications

FESTIVAL AT-A-GLANCE:
Juried, first-class outdoor art gallery showcasing local and national artists
Original handmade artwork
150+ national artists and craft artisans
Artists hand-selected by independent panel of expert judges from hundreds of applicants
All artists on site for duration of festival
Vast array of artistic media including paintings, sculptures, photography, ceramics, glass, wood, handmade jewelry, collage, mixed media
Full craft festival
Ample parking available and pets on leashes welcome

04/29/2026

Matan Companies is pleased to announce the official groundbreaking of Venture Industrial, its latest industrial development located in the heart of Stafford County. The project features a 250,000-square-foot, Class A industrial building being constructed on a speculative basis to meet the surging demand for high-quality industrial space along the I-95 corridor in Virginia.

Strategically situated at the Courthouse Road Interchange, directly along I-95, Venture Industrial offers unparalleled logistical advantages. Flanked by Burns Crossing to the north and the newly established DHL Distribution Center to the south, this prime location provides immediate highway access, ensuring seamless connectivity for regional and national distribution networks.

“Venture Industrial represents a significant investment in one of Virginia’s fastest-growing corridors,” said Vince Burke, Director of Development for Matan. “The convergence of record-breaking data center demand and a tightening supply of Class A industrial space makes Stafford an ideal environment for this project. We are designing a facility that offers the power, ceiling heights, and loading capabilities required by today’s most sophisticated industrial and technological users.”

The facility is designed with modern efficiency in mind, featuring 36’ ceiling height, 52 ’x 47.5’ typical column spacing, 130’ truck court, 60 dock doors, 243 parking spaces and 4 electric vehicle charging stations. The building allows for both single-tenant and multi-tenant configurations, with a flexible layout that can accommodate both large tenants and smaller users seeking partial building suites.

With construction now underway, Matan Companies anticipates that early Tenant Improvements (TI’s) can commence in May 2027, and that the building will be substantially complete by July 2027.

04/28/2026

Tax attorney Tyler Moser joins McNees’ Corporate & Tax Group in Frederick

FREDERICK, Md. (April 27, 2026) — McNees Wallace & Nurick today announced that attorney Tyler Moser has joined the firm’s Corporate & Tax Group in Frederick, where he will advise businesses and individuals on transactional tax and corporate matters.

Moser’s practice is focused on a broad range of U.S. federal corporate, partnership, and individual tax matters in connection with international and domestic mergers, acquisitions and divestitures, financial instruments and derivatives, lending transactions and other financings, debt and equity issuances, public charities and private foundations, and general tax planning.

Moser’s experience spans various sectors and industries, including banking, finance, real estate, private equity, life sciences, technology, consumer products, energy, and sports and entertainment. He also has experience representing clients in tax controversies before the IRS and state and local taxing authorities.

Moser brings extensive professional experience from various perspectives, including working for two AmLaw 100 law firms and Deloitte’s national tax office in Washington, D.C.

“Clients need tax counsel who can see both the technical issues and the broader business context,” said Timothy Finnerty, co-chair of McNees’ Corporate & Tax Group. “Tyler brings that perspective, and his arrival strengthens our ability to support clients across a wide range of transactions and tax matters.”

Moser earned his Master of Laws in taxation from the New York University School of Law, his J.D. from the University of Maryland School of Law, and his bachelor’s degree in finance from Shippensburg University.

Moser’s arrival is part of McNees’ continued growth in Maryland, where the firm has expanded its team and client service capabilities across its Frederick and Towson offices.