Made in Frederick: Dragon Distillery Offers First Spirits in Frederick

Dragon Distillery became Frederick's first distillery within the City in 2016. 
In The City of Frederick, local businesses make and manufacture their own products. From popcorn and coffee to dog treats, many businesses are choosing Frederick as a place to make their products and to do business. Made in Frederick is a feature that showcases these businesses and their products. 

Made in Frederick: Dragon Distillery 
Founded in late 2014 with a grand opening in early 2016, Dragon Distillery is Frederick's first small-craft distillery in the city. Located directly across from the airport, they specialize in small batch artisan spirits, made from the finest locally-sourced ingredients in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner. Their belief in individuality, creativity, and innovation shines through in their product as well as their medieval-themed decor. They are members of the American Distilling Institute, Maryland Distillers Guild and the Frederick Chamber of Commerce.

 In addition to production, Dragon Distillery has a tasting room. Visitors can tour and taste their products on-site. Visit their website for details. 

 Dragon Distillery owner Mark Lambert shared some thoughts about Frederick and his distillery.  

 Q&A With Dragon Distillery Owner, Mark Lambert
Dragon Distillery offers tours and tastings
Friday-Sunday. Visit their website for
details.
 
What are your products?
Joust Gin, Clustered Spires Vodka, Bad Bill Tutt Moonshine
 
What differentiates your products from others? 
We are Frederick City’s first craft distillery. We use locally-sourced products, and hand-craft each batch.
 
What should customers know about your products? 
We are committed to producing exceptional local spirits. We encourage customers to stop by the distillery to learn about our process, and taste our products
 
What does Frederick offer a company like yours? 
My family settled in the Frederick area in the mid 1700s. I think Frederick is an exceptional city, and a wonderful destination. The city and residents have been extremely supportive and welcoming. We really appreciate all of the support for our distillery.

If You Go

 Dragon Distillery is open Friday, Saturday and Sundays. Check with Dragon Distillery directly for most recent hours of operation.

Hours
Friday: 4pm – 7pm
Saturday: noon – 6pm
Sunday: noon – 4pm
Other times by appointment

 Tours are offered on the half-hour, and cost $5 per person. This includes the tour, tastings, and a souvenir shot glass.

 1341 Hughes Ford Road, Suite 108
Frederick, MD 21701
www.dragondistillery.com 
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Medieval-themed decor sets the tone in Dragon's tasting room.

The cauldron-like still, the Figgins Reciprocator, is nicknamed “Smaug.” 

Clustered Spires Vodka, named in tribute to the City of Frederick – the City of Clustered Spires, is clean and crisp. They recommend it for sipping, or as the base of your favorite cocktail.
Dragon Distillery grand opening on February 13, 2016.


City of Frederick Bond Rating Upgraded Following 2016 Bond Tour

The City of Frederick received an upgraded rating from Standard & Poors (S&P) to AA+ with a stable outlook, following an evaluation last month.  Analysts from each of three major bond rating agencies (Fitch, Moody's, and S&P) toured The City of Frederick in late February to supplement their research and learn about the current and future investment activity within the City.

 Read on for a summary of commercial development activity within The City of Frederick and highlighted trend data from the materials shared with each rating agency.





  • Positive population growth
  • Stabilized and increasing housing values
  • Strong business growth
    • Bio/lifesciences and advanced technology
    • Healthcare, services, retail
  • Fort Detrick and National Cancer Institute
  • National Interagency Biodefense campus
  • Construction of new USAMRIID Laboratory
  • Downtown Frederick
    • Completion of Carroll Creek Linear Park (Phase II)
    • Rehabilitative and infill projects 
  • Golden Mile
    • Redevelopment of Frederick Towne Mall
  • East Frederick
    • Small Area Plan development and planned residential and commercial taking shape










Analysts were provided with a directory of commercial development projects in various stages of construction within The City of Frederick.  A complete listing is available for download below.
Access the links below for the complete development directory and bond briefing presentation:

Download - Development Directory (PDF)
Download - Bond Briefing Presentation (PDF)

City's Economic Development Advisory Council Reviews 2016 Work Plan

Appointed and ex-officio members of the Ad Hoc Economic Development Advisory Council and staff stand for a photo at the September 2015 EDAC meeting.
The City of Frederick Economic Development Advisory Council (EDAC) meets quarterly to provide guidance on a variety of economic matters including the annual economic development work program, regulatory policy, business incentives and programs, and other special issues.  In 2016, EDAC will address a specific topic at each quarterly meeting:
  • 1st Quarter - Economic development work plan & budget
  • 2nd Quarter - Business impediments and updates to work completed to remove impediments
  • 3rd Quarter - Business support programs and incentives
  • 4th Quarter - Special projects, vision, and business infrastructure  
Most recently, members of EDAC provided assistance with the Department of Economic Development's (DED) 2016 Work Plan. 

 In conjunction with the unveiling of an annual work plan, DED introduced a revised mission statement and key concepts for the department:

Mission Statement - The City of Frederick Department of Economic Development (DED) strives to increase economic opportunity in Frederick by supporting and promoting a community where businesses and residents can thrive.

 Key Concepts - DED is focused on supporting a thriving community based on the following initiatives:
  • Marketing Frederick to the business community to attract employment and investment
  • Providing and connecting businesses to available resources and services
  • Developing policies and programs to strengthen Frederick's competitiveness

Residents – Economic Development benefits City residents both directly and indirectly:
  • Jobs – Employers provide jobs with family supporting wages and benefits
  • Tax base – Nearly 30% of the taxes paid are by commercial entities
    • Businesses share the tax burden with residents
    • Additional tax revenues provide a high-level of City services (i.e. each additional $100,000 in annual tax contributions equates to a new police officer position)
  • Businesses provide access to services and goods (i.e. shopping, dining, services)
  • Community health – A strong economy and employment base lowers crime rates, foreclosures, etc.
  • Special projects – DED provides support to projects including Carroll Creek Park and the Downtown Hotel & Conference Center
  • Grants – DED grant writing efforts offset City investment and thereby reducing citizen contributions
  • Entrepreneurial support – Providing targeted support to citizens interested in starting a business
  • Community pride – DED marketing and communications contribute to positive promotion of the community and increase pride in Frederick


Download - 2016 DED Work Plan (PDF)


City Expands Off-site Office Hours to Help Local Businesses

A view of the Golden Mile and the future Frederick Towne Center. The Department of Economic Development is expanding its office hours to include hours at the Way Off Broadway Theatre beginning on April 21, 2016.
Staff from the City of Frederick's Department of Economic Development (DED) began to pilot off-site office hours in February 2015. The goal for holding office hours is to provide additional opportunities to connect with entrepreneurs, start-ups, and small businesses in convenient locations throughout the community.  

The pilot program initially included office hours at Frederick's high-technology business incubator (FITCI) and in Downtown at Cowork Frederick. The program is now expanding to the Golden Mile with hours planned for the third Thursday of the month at the Way Off Broadway Theatre beginning on Thursday, April 21 from 1-3 p.m.

 In addition to office hours, City economic development staff is always available to meet with businesses by appointment.  

 Office Hour Locations & Information
Be sure to follow DED on Facebook at Twitter for updates to scheduled office hours.

Golden Mile Business Facades Shine a Little Brighter

In collaboration with The City of Frederick, Golden Mile Alliance, and Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), three businesses along the Golden Mile received facade improvement grants to enhance the image and improve the economic vitality of the corridor.

The City of Frederick received $100,000 from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development to support an expanded facade improvement program along the Patrick Street corridor.  The corridor encompasses businesses within the Golden Mile, Downtown Frederick, and East Frederick.

The Golden Mile Alliance Design Committee approved facade improvement grants for Casa Rico, Petersen's Carpet & Flooring and Vista Shops at Golden Mile. 

The facade improvement program will continue in 2016 as The City of Frederick was recently awarded funding for FY2016 by DHCD.  Additional communication, including a call for applications will be provided once funding is made available.

For additional information on the Golden Mile facade improvement program, visit the Golden Mile Alliance website.

Casa Rico
Before                 After  
Repair included a new sign, fresh paint for exterior including the roof and gutter replacement.

Petersen's Carpet
Before             After
Improvements included new stairs and railings, lighting, planter boxes, window casings and a vestibule entrance.

 Before             After
Improvements included fresh paint,graffiti removal, and new paint color.

Inspiring Offices: iHire's Open Office Space Inspires Collaboration & Creativity


In The City of Frederick, business spaces go beyond basics. Here, unique offices allow businesses to cultivate creativity, express their company's culture, and create a work environment that inspires. From industrial to classic, artsy to funky, historic to high tech, spaces abound to meet a variety of needs. 

Inspiring Offices is a feature that highlights some of the creative and unique office spaces in Frederick.

 Enjoy a behind-the-scenes peek inside an inspiring office in Frederick - iHire. iHire's office is located in the former Bottling Works building on East All Saints Street in Downtown Frederick. The rehabilitated building retains its original industrial feel while providing a collaborative and efficient work environment for iHire's talented workforce.

 iHire provides services to both employers and job seekers. Employers are provided tools to quickly and effectively fill open positions. Additionally, job seekers have access to a single platform that provides postings from numerous online sources.

 Learn more about inspiring office, iHire.



 iHire Chief Administrative Officer Lisa Shuster answered a few questions about what she  enjoys most about the office.
Why did you choose your current office location and how long has iHire been located here?

iHire has been in Downtown Frederick for about 15 years and in our current location for almost 10. We chose Frederick, as being in the county enables us to attract employees who prefer not to commute to DC or Baltimore. Further, the picturesque community has so much to offer our employees in the way of entertainment, dining and family-friendly activities; yet, we are still close to major metropolitan areas.    


Was it “move in” ready or did you have to design/fit it out?

Our space has evolved over the years. In the past, some customer-facing functions were housed in our Frederick location, such as our Customer Service and Sales teams, which required more traditional settings such as offices or cubicles, affording employees greater privacy/quiet. Those functions have transitioned to our Indiana office, giving us the opportunity to create a space more conducive to transparency, collaboration and innovation.  While we met with some designers for ideas, we managed the project in-house and inexpensively.    
There's plenty of brain fuel in iHire's well-stocked kitchen.
What inspirations did you use to decorate/design the space?

Our goals in designing the space were as follows: 

  • Create an environment conducive to the greatest degree of collaboration possible (especially cross-functional collaboration)
  • Increase communication and transparency
  • Stimulate more casual conversations and decision-making given the lack of physical barriers, with perhaps fewer formal meetings being held, as a result
  • Inspire greater team cohesiveness

What are the most unique aspects about your office space?

Our space is a completely open office with a number of “collaboration areas,” and even our senior leaders are “on the floor” with our employees. Staff members have the option to work sitting or standing at their adjustment desks, which are on wheels and may be moved for maximum flexibility/collaboration. Private/quiet areas are available for those needing some quiet time or privacy.  


What do you or your employees like best about the office space?

Our employees have reported that our new space has fostered transparency and trust, creating a relaxed work environment that is both productive and fun. In addition, the open office space has improved the follow of communication within teams. Instead of generating a constant stream of emails and waiting for replies, we ask questions face-to-face and get instant answers, resulting in greater ease and efficiency.  


Behind iHire's reception desk resides a 3D Printer.  Employees have the opportunity to upload their designs and create custom artwork as displayed above. 
 


Find Your Own Inspiring Office.  If you are looking to open or expand a business in Frederick, we can help.  Contact us, and let us help you find your own inspiring office space so you can build your dream.

If YOU know of any interesting office spaces, let us know and we will put them on our list to feature.

2016 New & Expanding Businesses in The City of Frederick





In collaboration with partners, the Department of Economic Development celebrates grand openings, business expansions, and commemorative anniversaries within the Frederick business community each year.  This list is a summary of new business openings and expansions within The City of Frederick based on events held by Downtown Frederick Partnership, Frederick County Chamber of Commerce, and businesses hosting their own celebrations.

January 2016

February 2016
March 2016
 April 2016 
May 2016
June 2016
July 2016
August 2016
September 2016

October 2016
November 2016
December 2016

City of Frederick Day 2016 in Annapolis Highlights Key City Projects


Thursday, January 28, 2016 was Frederick Day in Annapolis. Each year, The City of Frederick and its partners update legislators and state leaders on City projects and report on the key infrastructure and growth projects underway. 

 "This provides a unique opportunity for Frederick to really showcase our community and the projects that are moving Frederick forward," said Richard Griffin, Director of Economic Development for The City of Frederick. The Department of Economic Development coordinates with the Mayor's office and city departments each year to plan the event. 
Photos from Frederick Day in Annapolis.
View more photos from the event.

Together We Can Grow Frederick's Future
Building a Stronger and Safer Maryland - Project Highlights and Updates

 Downtown Hotel and Conference Center / Parking Deck 6

The City of Frederick is partnering with a hotel developer, selected through a competitive RFP process, to construct a privately owned and operated $64M full-service hotel and conference center in Downtown Frederick. The public on-site improvements, including parking, will cost approximately $20M. This is the top priority of the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce’s Major Employers Group, and projected to offer many benefits, including: 

  • 207 rooms with 24,000 square feet of meeting space 
  • Public Parking Garages: 750 spaces (100 on-site/650 off-site) 
  • 280 total jobs 
  • $1.5M annually in State taxes 
  • $25.8M in direct, indirect, and induced spending
Frederick Municipal Airport - Maximizing Airport Safety and Capacity
Frederick Municipal Airport (FDK) is the second busiest airport in Maryland and well positioned to become the preferred executive airport in the National Capital Region. It is seeking funding to support a multi-year program to extend the primary runway (5/23) and create space for aeronautical development. Current projects include:

  • Design and demolition of aviation obstructions along Bailes Lane, etc.
  • Washington gas line relocation
  • Demolition of obstructions including 14 buildings near the airport that penetrate protected surfaces or zones
  • Relocation of a gas line owned and operated by Washington Gas
  • Engineering tasks to eliminate obstructions and ensure compliance with FAA criteria
  • Partnering with MAA for design of a snow removal equipment (SRE) building; seeking FY17 grant for construction
These projects will enhance safety, increase airport capacity, and allow us to better accommodate corporate operators with available ramp space and hangar development opportunities.

 Shared Use Path Connection Under Route U.S. 15

The City of Frederick is planning a shared use path connection to give cyclists and pedestrians a passage under U.S. 15 as part of a path between Waterford and Baker parks. This critical path will unite the east and west ends of the City and provide an alternate transportation link to employment, Downtown Frederick and The Golden Mile, and community resources.
   

Project Updates

Monocacy Boulevard/U.S. 15 Interchange Improves Safety and Relieves Congestion
The #1 Infrastructure Priority for Frederick City and County for over 5 years

The Monocacy Boulevard and U.S. 15 Interchange will provide a full-diamond interchange, improving safety by eliminating at-grade intersections on U.S. 15. Design is complete, and construction began in 2015. The project provides:

  • Congestion relief from pass through traffic, local development, and Fort Detrick growth
  • Hiking and biking tails, sidewalks, on-street bike lanes, lighting, landscaping, and pedestrian accommodations
  • Park and Ride with 390 spaces connects to future Rails With Trails 
  • This improvement complements other road improvements, such as Monocacy Boulevard Center Section Phase II, which will add 14,000 linear feet of a 4-lane roadway, alleviate congestion, create safe routes for emergency access during flood events, and add hiking/biking trails, sidewalks, and trees

Culler Lake Renaissance in Baker Park 
Restoring water quality and aesthetic character 

Culler Lake, in the heart of Baker Park, was established 90 years ago. Today, the park is in need of restoration to improve water quality and the aesthetic character of the lake. In partnership with Friends of Baker Park, a two-phased plan is in place to address the restoration. Construction will begin in spring of 2016. The project will:

  • Dredge and restore Culler Lake (Phase I)
  • Install wetlands and stormwater infrastructure to treat approximately 60 acres of untreated impervious area
    (Phase I)
  • Add new shared use paths and fountains (Phase I)
  • Add a pavilion and overlook, additional paths, benches, signage, pedestrian crossing and entrance features, and skate house improvements (Phase II)
   

Thank You For Your Support 
The State of Maryland helped make these projects possible
Weinberg Center for the Arts Receives New HVAC System
With your support, the HVAC replacement is underway so the Weinberg can continue providing programming throughout the year. This 1,100 seat historic performing arts theater attracts 70,000 patrons and generates $7M in economic impact annually.

Carroll Creek Park Phase II Will Be Complete in Early 2016
This public-private partnership has spanned six administrations. Carroll Creek Park, as a flood control project, effectively removed Downtown Frederick from the 100-year floodplain and restored economic vitality to the historic commercial district. Over $100 million in private investment is underway or planned in new construction, infill development, or historic renovation along the park.
Waste Water Treatment Plant Receives Upgrades

Upgrades to Frederick’s Waste Water Treatment Plant will bring the plant into compliance with recent EPA mandates for ENR. It will reduce nitrogen and phosphorus discharges to the Chesapeake Bay and tributaries and will improve water quality. Construction started in September 2015 with completion expected in January 2017.
U.S. 40 / Golden Mile Improvements

Thanks to the State Highway Administration (SHA) for pedestrian and motorist safety improvements along U.S. 40, also known as The Golden Mile. This multifaceted project included repaving, restriping, reconstructing and upgrading traffic signals, and the installation of pedestrian safety fence.

Contact

If you have any questions about these projects, please feel free to contact Mayor Randy McClement. He can be reached at 301-600-1380.

Thank You To Our 2016 Sponsors




Introducing Thrive Frederick - A New Marketing Concept for DED

Whether it's your first visit to Frederick or you call it home, you notice it thrives. It has 
  • Thriving Arts, Culture & Music
  • Thriving Shops and Dining
  • Thriving Small Businesses
  • Thriving Manufacturing and Biotech Companies
  • A Thriving Historic Downtown
  • Thriving Students and 
  • A Thriving Economy.
Here, thriving is a state of mind for local business owners and residents and a defining feature of the community. 

 When Frederick's Department of Economic Development (DED) wanted to update their marketing materials, it didn't have to look far for inspiration. Every day, the department strives to increase economic opportunity in Frederick by supporting and promoting a community where businesses and residents can THRIVE. 

 Beginning in 2016, DED will roll out new marketing materials as they promote their services to the community and represent Frederick as a business destination. The fresh, new colors and design represent the forward-moving and thriving community of Frederick.  

The Process
DED contracted with Jean Peterson Design for the Brand Development Discovery process and to develop the new look and feel for the department's marketing materials. Community partners and business leaders were invited to participate in a brand discovery survey that helped guide the new concept. 

Through stakeholder surveys, it was determined the new look and feel should be 
  • Simple
  • Hi-Tech Industrial
  • Modern
  • Refined
  • Colorful
Favored colors included
  • Blue
  • Navy Blue
  • Orange Red
  • Black
  • Gray
  • Green
  • Yellow / Gold
The information was gathered and analyzed, and with recommendations from senior City staff and the Economic Development Advisory Council, a new marketing concept was chosen. 

Coordinating the Concept 
As a part of the overall project, the same Brand Development Discovery process was used for two additional City departments, Parking and the Airport. Jean Peterson Design found the uniting elements, and created a concept that works across multiple departments. These are harmonious side-by-side, but each can be used independently as well.


How The Concepts Will Be Used
These colors and designs will guide printed collateral such as rack cards, advertising, trade show panels, presentations, digital media, and more. It will give marketing materials a fresh look and feel as these departments represent Frederick locally, regionally, nationally, and even internationally. The concepts are designed to work in coordination with the official city seal and present a cohesive marketing effort. 


Made in Frederick: ShieldCo

In the City of Frederick, a variety of local businesses make and manufacture their own products. From popcorn and coffee to dog treats, many small businesses are choosing Frederick as a place to make their products and to do business.

Made in Frederick is a feature that showcases these businesses and their products.

Made in Frederick: ShieldCo

ShieldCo is a family and veteran owned business, owned by brothers Luke and Neil Markey, along with their father, Peter Markey. The company is located in Frederick, Maryland and creates custom business signage and interior décor for a variety of clients. 

 From business plaques to sports logos, ShieldCo can make a quality piece of interior artwork for any customer. ShieldCo has made custom products for the University of Maryland, Columbia University and many other clients. The company has even created custom metal pieces of Central Park and the Frederick skyline.

 The City of Frederick's Department of Economic Development had the chance to stop by ShieldCo's offices and talk to co-owners, Luke and Neil.


Q&A with ShieldCo Co-Owners, Neil and Luke
Neil and Luke took the time to answer a few questions about their business, their products, and why they enjoy doing business in Frederick.
SheildCo co-owners and brothers Luke and Neil Markey.
Photo courtesy of www.shieldcoart.com. 

How long has your company been in business?
2013

What is your product/products?
Custom 3D business signage and interior décor.

What makes your product different? 
We turn logos and designs into art. Our technique allows companies to take a 2D logo and make a unique 3D representation. All our pieces are laser cut and industrially powder coated so they can be used inside or out and will last lifetimes.

What do you want your customers to know about your product?
It will make their company or organization stand out from the rest. It is durable and will last and is made locally in Frederick, Maryland.

What does Frederick offer a company like yours? 
Great support from local customers who believe in us and want to see us succeed. Great artisan and artistic culture that appreciates quality and design. 

Want more information on ShieldCo?
If you would like to see more of the products ShieldCo produces or would like to get information on how to purchase your own piece of custom artwork, visit ShieldCo's website.


 Connect with ShieldCo
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
Google+


Want to be featured on our blog?
If you or your business has a product that's made here in Frederick, contact us and your local business could be featured in our next blog post.

 This story was completed by our fall 2015 intern from Hood College, Nick Masucci.