Support Local Frederick

09/30/2026

Organizations that support Frederick County residents with cancer are invited to submit applications for funding from The Community Foundation of Frederick County’s William E. Barnhart Memorial Fund from Oct. 1 through Oct. 23, 2026.

This fund is one of three created through W. Eugene “Gene” Barnhart’s estate. Mr. Barnhart was originally from Laytonsville, Maryland and later settled in Middletown, Maryland. He was a farmer for most of his life, followed by a second career as an auto mechanic.

More than $750,000 in funding is available. One application is permitted per organization and grant requests must be a minimum of $10,000. All funding must provide direct benefits to residents of Frederick County, Maryland.

Eligible organizations must certify they are one of the following: a 501c3 nonprofit, a government agency applying for an extraordinary project that is not funded by tax revenue, a religious organization requesting funding for non-sectarian activities, or a civic group that is not a 501c3 requesting funding for a community cause.

All grant applications are submitted through the Community Foundation’s online application process. Grant details and access to the application are available at

09/30/2026

The American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA), a global, nonprofit accreditation body, has opened its call for speakers for the A2LA Annual Conference 2027 (AnnCon27) taking place in Las Vegas, Nevada from April 26-29, 2027.
This leading industry event is a valuable opportunity for accreditation and quality professionals from all sectors to showcase their expertise on a global stage. Those who are selected to speak will receive complementary AnnCon27 registration—an approximately $1,000 value—and the opportunity to build their reputation as a subject-matter expert among professionals from around the world.
Accreditation serves as a foundation for confidence in testing, inspection, certification, healthcare, manufacturing, environmental monitoring, food safety, forensic science, and other critical sectors. AnnCon27 will bring together experts who are helping organizations navigate evolving quality, technical, and regulatory challenges.
Last year’s A2LA Annual Conference drew more than 653 attendees, growing just over 15% from the year prior. It attracts international participants from many countries, including Canada, India, China, Romania, Nigeria, Taiwan, Argentina, Egypt, Singapore, and more.
"Accreditation plays a critical role in protecting public trust, supporting innovation, and enabling confidence in products, services, and scientific results around the world," said Lonnie Spires, President and CEO of A2LA. "AnnCon27 provides a unique opportunity for experts and thought leaders to share practical solutions, emerging trends, and insights that strengthen quality infrastructure globally."
As laboratories, inspection bodies, certification organizations, and quality professionals face increasing demands related to supply chain resilience, AI, cybersecurity, regulatory oversight, and global trade, AnnCon27 will focus on the challenges shaping the future of accreditation and conformity assessment.
“As someone who travelled 5,500 miles and crossed the Atlantic to return to this conference, AnnCon26 proved to be an exceptionally well-curated and intellectually rewarding forum,” said Dr. Radu Ilinca, Academic Researcher and Assistant Professor at Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Bucharest, Romania. “It brings together a distinguished community of professionals committed to advancing the principles and practice of accreditation. The programme was both rigorous and thoughtfully structured, offering a rare balance between technical depth and strategic perspective.”

Session submissions require a summary of the presentation, a brief biography, and a current headshot. Speakers and their sessions are promoted on the LinkedIn event page, the event app, event signage, and more. Sessions are typically 40 minutes long.
Priority topics include, but are not limited to, ISO standards and implementation, laboratory operations and quality systems, AI integration, inspection and certification, risk management, continuous improvement, emerging industry technologies and laboratory innovation, workforce development, leadership and soft skill development, regulatory developments, and more.
Important Dates
• The Call Opens August 31, 2026
• The Call Closes November 16, 2026
• Speaker Notifications December 11, 2026
• Conference Agenda Live December 14, 2026
To submit a session, visit https://na.eventscloud.com/eSites/anncon27/Call%20for%20Speakers.
To learn more about A2LA Annual Conference, visit https://a2la.org/annual_conference/.
For more information about A2LA, visit www.A2LA.org or contact us at [email protected].
Media Contact: Wallis Reed; [email protected]; 301-644-3230

09/15/2026

Celebrate Frederick County Business Appreciation Week with Attronica Computers at their upcoming Open House!

Stop by on Wednesday, September 30 from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM to tour the facility, meet the Attronica team and connect with members of the Frederick County business community. Plus, enjoy lunch from the food truck on site, courtesy of Attronica.

📍 Attronica Computers
7118 Geoffrey Way, Suite A, Frederick, MD 21704

RSVP and come say hello!

09/08/2026

M-TEC SOLUTIONS APPROVED AS MARYLAND SOLAR ACCESS PROGRAM PARTICIPATING CONTARCTOR
M-TEC Solutions LLC, a Frederick, Maryland-based solar company serving Maryland and the greater DMV region, is pleased to announce that it has been approved as a Maryland Solar Access Program (MSAP) Participating Contractor through the Maryland Energy Administration (MEA).The designation allows M-TEC Solutions to work with eligible Maryland homeowners seeking to take advantage of a state program designed to make residential solar energy more accessible to households that meet the program's income requirements.
What Is the Maryland Solar Access Program?
The Maryland Solar Access Program was established to help income-eligible Maryland residents install solar photovoltaic systems on their homes and access clean, affordable, and sustainable energy.For Fiscal Year 2027, the program provides an upfront rebate reservation based on the size of the proposed solar PV system. The current rebate is calculated at $750 per kilowatt of DC system capacity, up to a maximum rebate of $7,500.The program is administered by the Maryland Energy Administration and is intended specifically for qualifying Maryland homeowners. Eligibility is based on household income and other program requirements.
Why the Timing of the Application Matters
One of the most important things homeowners should understand about MSAP is that the rebate is not something a homeowner applies for after installing solar.
The program operates through a two-step process.
First, an eligible homeowner must obtain an upfront rebate reservation, and that reservation must be approved by MEA before the solar PV system is installed.
After the solar project has been completed and interconnected, the applicant proceeds through the second step to request the rebate payment.
This requirement makes it important for homeowners to understand the program before signing off on construction or beginning their solar project.
Who Can Participate?
MSAP is designed for income-eligible Maryland households. For FY2027, MEA's current maximum gross annual household income limits range from $136,785 for a one-person household to $257,910 for an eight-person household. The applicable limit depends on household size.
Meeting the income requirement, however, does not automatically guarantee a rebate. Homeowners must satisfy the program's other eligibility requirements and follow the required application process.
The program is also subject to available funding. MEA currently anticipates up to $10 million for FY2027 rebates and notes that the application portal may close before the stated deadline if requested funding exceeds the available program budget.
What Does M-TEC Solutions' Approval Mean for Homeowners?
As an MSAP Participating Contractor, M-TEC Solutions is included among the contractors homeowners can select when applying for a new MSAP rebate reservation.M-TEC Solutions can also assist homeowners with the application process. Under the program, a homeowner can submit an application independently, or an approved participating contractor can submit an application on the homeowner's behalf with the appropriate authorization. This gives homeowners the opportunity to work with a local solar company while navigating the requirements of the program.
"We are excited to become an approved Maryland Solar Access Program Participating Contractor because we believe homeowners should have a clear understanding of the opportunities available to them before making a major energy investment," said [Name, Title] of M-TEC Solutions. "Our role is not simply to provide solar services. We want to help homeowners understand the process, evaluate their options, and make informed decisions about whether solar makes sense for their homes."
Solar Access Is About More Than a Rebate
While the financial assistance is an important part of the program, the broader goal is to expand access to residential solar energy among Maryland households that may otherwise find the upfront cost difficult to manage.Solar can potentially help homeowners produce electricity at their property, reduce their reliance on electricity purchased from the grid, and participate in Maryland's transition toward cleaner energy.
However, solar is not necessarily the right solution for every home. Factors such as roof condition, available sunlight, system design, electricity usage, utility requirements, and the overall cost of the project should be evaluated before a homeowner moves forward.M-TEC Solutions encourages homeowners to view the MSAP rebate as one part of the overall solar decision, rather than assuming that every household or property will qualify.
An Important Reminder for Homeowners
Homeowners interested in the Maryland Solar Access Program should not install their solar system first and attempt to apply for the rebate afterward.
The upfront rebate reservation must be approved by MEA before installation begins. Homeowners should also work with a contractor listed as an MSAP Participating Contractor when submitting a new application.
M-TEC Solutions encourages Maryland homeowners who believe they may qualify to begin by reviewing their household eligibility and discussing their property and energy needs with a participating contractor.
About M-TEC Solutions LLC
M-TEC Solutions LLC is a Frederick, Maryland-based solar company serving homeowners and businesses throughout Maryland and the DMV region. The company provides residential and commercial solar services, including solar installations, troubleshooting, repairs, detach and reset services, electrical services, maintenance, and Operations & Maintenance support.
Through its participation in the Maryland Solar Access Program, M-TEC Solutions is expanding its ability to help eligible Maryland homeowners understand and navigate opportunities for residential solar.
Contact info
301-244-9707
[email protected]

09/02/2026

Join Visit Frederick for a guided bus tour highlighting tourism and hospitality businesses in Frederick County. This tour will show what's new and exciting in the tourism industry along the Journey Through Hallowed Ground Scenic Byway, an industry that generates more than $550 million in Frederick County each year.
Visit Frederick hosts these "Familiarization Tours" twice a year - providing the business community an opportunity to learn more about tourism in Frederick County and its economic impact on the region.
Tour starts at 8:00am and is rain or shine. Please register by September 21, 2026.
https://www.visitfrederick.org/partners/fam-tours/

09/01/2026

The Veteran Services Center at Goodwill (VSC) and its partner service providers work year-round to help veterans, service members, first responders, and their families find support, connection, and tools for mental and emotional well-being. During National Su***de Prevention Month in September, the VSC is spotlighting the ongoing work and local partnerships that make it all possible.

In addition to the many no-cost services and programs provided at the VSC, during National Su***de Prevention Month the VSC is highlighting mental health counseling services available through several VSC partners, the VSC’s collaboration with the Frederick County Su***de Prevention Coalition, and its partnership with Mission 22 to promote the Elements program – a free, self-paced course that offers practical tools to help participants manage stress, strengthen resilience, and build discipline. These resources, as well as others provided through dozens of service providers at the VSC, reflect the VSC’s continued commitment to su***de prevention, mental health awareness, and stronger community connections throughout the year.

“Mental health and su***de prevention efforts matter every single day of the year” said Katrina Thurman, Chief Mission and Education Officer for Goodwill Industries of Monocacy Valley. “Our teams support our nation’s heroes to make sure they are seen, supported, and feel connected to those that care about them. National Su***de Prevention Month gives us an opportunity to bring greater attention to the trusted partners and services available through the Veteran Services Center, while continuing to build the relationships and sense of community that support mental health year-round.”

Numerous service providers at the VSC such as Reforge, Martinsburg Vet Center, Stephen A. Cohen Military Family Clinic, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, and Mindset Quality: Mission Redefine, work with Veterans and their families, providing free mental health and wellness resources like counseling, behavioral health, care coordination, peer support, and wellness activities.

Among the many events taking place at the VSC during National Su***de Prevention Month are:

A Veterans Affairs workshop featuring more than a dozen clinicians from the Baltimore and Martinsburg Regional VA Hospitals, September 1-2.
On September 11, the VSC will bring people together for a Quilts of Valor ceremony, a Veteran-created flag dedication, and a non-denominational observance led by The Mighty 30 Chaplains for the 25th anniversary of 9/11.
The VA Mobile Vet Center will be on site on September 18 to provide confidential, non-medical counseling, and supportive services directly to veterans and their families.
Serving Together will facilitate its quarterly Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) course on Wednesday, September 30, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. MHFA is an early intervention program that helps participants recognize signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges, understand their impact, and provide support.
For additional information about the VSC, its partner service providers, and the resources available, please visit VeteranServicesCenter.org. For anyone in need of immediate help, please call or text 988 to reach the National Su***de & Crisis Lifeline.

08/31/2026

Registration is officially open for Mission Maryland 2026!

Taking place November 7 in Frederick, Mission Maryland brings together veterans, military-connected individuals, employers, service providers, community organizations and partners for a day focused on connection, resources and opportunity.

Registration is now open for attendees, vendors, guests and volunteers. Organizations interested in participating as a speaker, event partner or sponsor can also get involved.

Saturday, November 7, 2026
10:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Frederick, Maryland

Learn more and register: https://veterans.maryland.gov/news-events/mission-maryland-2026

08/26/2026

“How to Grieve Better,” a new TEDx talk by Dr. Arielle Jordan, introduces the concept of Grief Intelligence™ and explores how grief can extend beyond the loss of a loved one to experiences involving identity, career changes, transitions, and other major life changes.

The talk offers a framework for better understanding and navigating grief in its many forms.

Watch the full TEDx talk here:

Grief Intelligence™ helps us recognize, name, and move through loss...

08/25/2026

Scholarships to help pay for winter, spring or summer athletic and sports activities and camps are available to students in kindergarten through grade 12. The scholarships are funded by The Luke Clemens Bartlett Memorial Athletic Scholarship Fund, one of more than 850 component funds of The Community Foundation of Frederick County.

The application and related information can be found at ScholarshipsFrederickCounty.com. The online application is open from Sept. 1 through Sept. 30, 2026. Scholarships support participation fees only, and payment will be made directly to the youth athletic organization and/or as a reimbursement to the parent/guardian with proof of payment. Applicants must be a Frederick County resident.

08/20/2026

Kiddie Academy of Urbana raised $2,500 for Blessings in a Backpack – Frederick Chapter during its 6th Annual Children’s Art Show & Charity Auction on Saturday, with an additional $1,500 committed through silent auction bids, bringing the event’s anticipated fundraising total to $4,000.

From 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., families, educators, local businesses, and community members gathered at Kiddie Academy of Urbana to celebrate children’s creativity while supporting local families in need. The academy was transformed into an art gallery featuring artwork created by every enrolled child, from infants through school age. Attendees also participated in a silent auction featuring prizes donated by local businesses.

All proceeds from the event benefit Blessings in a Backpack – Frederick Chapter.

The academy raised $2,500 during the event, while an additional $1,500 in silent auction bids has been committed and is expected to be finalized by the end of the week. Once finalized, those proceeds will be added to the event total, bringing the anticipated fundraising total to $4,000. The funds will support Blessings in a Backpack’s efforts to ensure local children have access to nourishing meals beyond the school week.

Kiddie Academy of Urbana launched its annual Children’s Art Show & Charity Auction two years after opening, creating an opportunity to teach children that creativity can be a force for good while supporting nonprofit organizations serving the local community. The academy has continued that commitment through the years, including raising $4,300 for Sophie and Madigan’s Playground during last year’s event. Each year, the Children’s Art Show introduces children and families to a different nonprofit organization and provides an opportunity to learn how community organizations make a positive impact.

The artwork displayed at the event was created through classroom experiences that encourage creativity, critical thinking, fine motor development, and confidence. The event gave children an opportunity to see those skills extend beyond the classroom as families, educators, local businesses, and nonprofit partners came together around a shared community cause.

“Out of all our events, this one is especially close to my heart because two of my favorite things come together harmoniously: creativity and giving back,” said Namita Shah, Franchise Owner of Kiddie Academy of Urbana. “It has been wonderful to see everyone pitch in so enthusiastically and to watch this event evolve over the years.”

As Kiddie Academy of Urbana celebrates its 6th Annual Children’s Art Show & Charity Auction, the academy remains committed to creating meaningful learning experiences that connect children and families with their community. Through creativity and community service, the event continues to provide children with opportunities to see the impact they can make beyond the classroom.

Photography for the event was provided by CRVNKA Photography, a Frederick, Maryland-based photography business and fellow Frederick County Chamber of Commerce member. CRVNKA Photography documented the children’s artwork, families, and community moments throughout the event.