by Carmen Hilton | May 4, 2020 | Main Street Blog
COVID-19 Response of Brunswick Sports and Apparel
Brunswick Sports and Apparel officially opened its doors as a sporting goods store 2 years ago. Previously, the building had been predominately a hardware store for 45 years. Abbie Ricketts, the current owner, had moved to Brunswick with her family 47 years ago and it was her father that had established the original business. He had worked in a bank but had always dreamed of owning his own hardware store, and when they moved to town, he was able to make that dream into a reality.
Abbie had grown up in the store and eventually worked there and helped
her father. Then, 2 years ago, her father decided it was time to retire. With his retirement came Abbie’s decision that it was time to do something a little different. That was when Abbie changed the hardware store to a sporting goods store. Although not the easiest decision, it allowed for the expansion of their business with additional products and services.
The hardware store already sold many things like sports equipment, fishing gear, and acted as a licensing agent for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Now as Brunswick Sports and Apparel, they offer many more products and services such as: custom embroidery and screen printing, heat press, custom decorative sewing, laser engraving, sports equipment, fishing, tackle, signs and banners, and they are a licensing agent for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Abbie puts her background in art, along with other skills gained through the years, to good use with the products and services currently offered. She loves that Brunswick is right next to the C&O Canal and the Potomac River and it is her mission, and all those that work with her, to serve Brunswick and the surrounding areas by providing high quality custom merchandise and timely service.
During COVID-19 it has been a challenge, but somehow, they are 
managing to stay in strong spirits. Up until Saturday, April 26th they had been closed, but they are fortunate that they are now able to re-open for the time being. They are currently selling protective face masks which allows them to be open in a limited capacity and those that go inside can shop her other wares and obtain a fishing license. Their current operating hours are Tuesday – Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Stop in and pick up a Brunswick Railroaders mask, sports equipment and apparel, or a fishing license. Discover what Brunswick Sports and Apparel has for you!
by Carmen Hilton | Apr 25, 2020 | Main Street Blog
Brunswick Main Street will be bringing you weekly blog posts featuring a different downtown business. Each business will share how they are dealing with the COVID-19 crisis. Statistics from Main Street America say that over 35% of Main Street businesses will have to permanently close if this crisis continues for 3-5 months. We know you love downtown, so let’s rally to support our downtown businesses throughout this crisis!
Our first blog post will feature a beloved downtown business which has become a true anchor for our downtown area: Beans in the Belfry.
Located in the historic 1910 church on W Potomac Street, Beans in the Belfry brings in people from all walks of life to participate in their many events and enjoy the variety of food they serve. Open seven days a week, they are known for having live music, an afternoon tea service, for the quality customer experience provided, , and for popular foods like their Turkey Panini and Bombay Chicken Salad. The eclectic atmosphere reminds guests of home with comfy couches, a children’s corner, board games, and even free wi-fi for folks to use.
The owners of Beans in the Belfry, Melanie DiPasquale and her parents Jim and Hanna Politis, love the opportunity to know, serve, and work with the people in the community. Hanna says that “Melanie’s vision was and still is to enhance downtown Brunswick with a place where people and families with kids can get together, drink coffee, socialize, get to know each other. Since she is a fan of historic preservation, she picked the boarded-up church on 122 West Potomac Street to be that place. Always 100% committed, she and family members bought that church in 2003 and after 14 months of hard work and considerable investment she turned it into an eclectic, comfortable and inviting Third Place for locals to hang out, and it soon became a destination for people in the tri-state area to visit and enjoy coffee, food, and since 2012 also beer and wine. A coffee house is not complete without live music and right from the beginning we were approached by musicians to perform. It became a win-win situation where all weekend long our stage resounds with performers of Irish, Celtic and roots music, blues, old time, bluegrass, and amazing jazz groups.”
Hanna continued to say “Our products and services evolved by listening to our customers. So, we soon added paninis, soups, chili, salads, cakes and other baked goods to our coffee, espresso and tea service. We want ingredients to be high quality and insist on freshness. Therefore, as much as possible we choose locally sourced, organic and sustainable ingredients. As our food service increased, so did our opportunity to hire local staff, and we pride ourselves to have filled positions with baristas whom we trained while they were still attending or had just graduated from the local high school, as well as staff from the local community with experience in food service. “
Hanna describes the impact of COVID-19, “With COVID-19, of course, the unthinkable happened when the Governor of Maryland imposed restrictions on table service in restaurants. Since March 17 we have adapted to offering curbside service and had to reduce our staff to fewer hours. It’s been a blow to us since our strength lies in the experience of our eclectic ambiance in the room. We are using the down time for repair and maintenance of the century old building. We are ever so grateful to friends and supporters who place coffee and food orders and get gift cards to pay it forward. We look forward to having the restrictions lifted and resuming normal service. We really miss seeing the many friendly faces and engaging with people who make our running our business so rewarding.”
Beans in the Belfry has been serving our community for 16 years. Established in 2004, this family-owned business strives to bring good quality food to all those who walk through their doors. Each family member brings their strengths and prior knowledge to the business while at the same time they are each constantly learning new skills so that they can serve others to the best of their ability. Everyone at Beans in the Belfry wants you to know that they are here to serve the community alongside the other businesses located in our beloved downtown Brunswick. All establishments are counting on the support of the community at this time of need.
They are open 363 days of the year. Currently the hours are: Sunday – Thursday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday – Saturday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Support Beans in the Belfry by giving them a call at 301.834.7178 and placing an order TODAY! You can also leave them a review on Yelp, TripAdvisor, Google, or Facebook. Beans in the Belfry can also be found on several social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Snapchat. The eclectic yet warm atmosphere in this historic building is welcoming and allows others to feel at home without having to be at home. Can’t wait until we can all gather there again for a great cup of coffee!
With mention of Brunswick Main Street, get a free coffee with your meal at Beans in the Belfry!
by Carmen Hilton | Mar 16, 2020 | Main Street Blog
Brunswick Main Street and the City of Brunswick’s Economic Development Commission have teamed up to keep the Brunswick community informed on how to support our local businesses in the upcoming weeks. First and foremost, we would like to reiterate that the safety of residents, workers and visitors in the Brunswick community is paramount and that patrons should take proper precautions when shopping and dining in Brunswick. However, we encourage our community to find appropriate ways to support our small businesses and vulnerable community members during this challenging time. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on our social media regarding business activities and events. The following blog post will be continually updated to reflect all active recommendations provided by our local businesses, and City, County and State partners.
All of our businesses are taking extreme precautions to keep their facilities clean. If you are feeling ill or are a high risk for carrying COVID-19, we ask that you please avoid interacting with our businesses in person for the safety of their employees and to ultimately slow the dissemination of the virus.
THE GOOD NEWS: There are many ways in which you can support our Brunswick Businesses! Here are a few ways:
- Purchase a gift card. Many of our businesses have gift cards available for purchase – you can find specific information on which businesses below! Purchasing a gift card can help offset their current demands of operating a small business.
- Consider delivery or take out! Several of our local restaurants can deliver or provide carry out options. See the list below for more details. Pro tip: order a few meals and freeze them!
- Partake in online courses as they become available. Fun things to do from the comfort of your home! See below.
- Encourage your friends and family to support local. Share this post, business posts and other information widely so others know how to help!
Here is information on specific businesses (subject to change):
| Business: |
Contact Info: |
Gift Cards? |
Latest Information: |
| Adele’s Tex Mex |
Facebook HERE
Phone Number: 301.834.3400
|
Yes! Call to order. |
Take out and delivery options are available! |
| Beans in the Belfry |
Facebook HERE
Website HERE
Phone Number: 301.834.7178
|
Yes! Order on website or call. |
Take out options are available starting March 17th, 2020! They are in the process of developping a smooth take out process: operating hours will remain the same, a carry out parking space is available outside their cafe, payment method is cash or credit card, and their menu is on their website. Curbside delivery available! |
| Boxcar Burgers |
Facebook HERE
Website HERE
Phone Number: 301.834.2612
|
|
Take out options available! Crubside assistance and delivery information pending. Operating with regular winter hours for now. |
| Brunswick Heritage Museum |
Facebook HERE
Website HERE
Phone Number: 301.834.7100
|
|
The Brunswick Heritage Museum is unfortunately closed until March 25th and will re-evaluate soon after. |
| Brunswick Sports and Apparel |
Facebook HERE
Website HERE
Phone Number: 301.8349207
|
Yes! Call to order |
Brunswick Sports and Apparel is working on extended hours. They encourage online and phone orders as the primary form of patronage. They meticulously clean all of their products. |
| CM Bloomers |
Facebook HERE
Website HERE
Phone Number: 301.834.8200
|
Yes! Call to order. |
CM Bloomers is still operating with shortened hours. Porch delivery options are available! However, they will not delivering to health care facilities, nursing homes, health care offices or FT. Detrick. Curbside assistance also available. |
| Corner Store |
Facebook HERE
Phone Number: 301.658.4593
|
|
The Corner Store has a delivery service! Call to get some essential items delievered to your doorstep. Regular operating hours will occur for now. A take out parking space and crubside delivery are available! |
| Dollar General |
Phone Number: 301.969.2630 |
|
Dollar General in Brunswick will be open at 7 am to 8 am for seniors to shop 55 and up, after 8am it is normal shopping! |
| Five Dances Wellness Center |
Facebook HERE
Website HERE
Phone Number: 301.834.7411
|
Yes – varying. |
Currently operating regular business hours (open on a day to day basis). Connie Trica, LMT and Licensed Esthetician can issue gift cards here: https://www.chrysalisbody.com/ other consultants and personnel unable to at this time.
Stay tuned for some amazing online courses and opportunities!
|
| Grasshopper Garden & Patio |
Facebook HERE
Website HERE
Phone Number: 301.432.5428
|
|
Grasshopper Garden & Patio are continuing their projects at this time and do not anticipate a delay in proress. They are taking all the recommended CDC precautions at this time. |
| The Hive Bakeshop |
Facebook HERE
Website HERE
Phone Number: 301.969.6506
|
Yes! Call to order. |
The Hive is offering a shortened menu of family classics. They will do their best to support call ahead payments and curbside assistance. Check out their social media for their latest updates!
They also have initiated a “share a meal” service for families in need. Sponsor a family in your community with a $25 donation HERE
|
| King’s Pizza |
Facebook HERE
Phone Number: 301.834.9999
|
Yes! Call to order. |
Take out and delivery options are available! |
| The Own It Company |
Facebook HERE
Website HERE
Phone Number: 301.675.3098
|
|
The Own It Company has created a short term transitional membership for those who are newly teleworking. The space offers many ammenities that can assist teleworkers in optimizing their time out of the office. The membership is $1.00 for 14 days. The Own It Company will be keeping the same operating hours for now. |
| Potomac Street Grill |
Facebook HERE
Website HERE
Phone Number: 301.969.0548
|
Yes! Call to order. |
They will be offering take out and delivery options! New operating hours are as follows: Sunday through Thursday 12-6 and Friday and Saturday 12-7 |
| Public Spectacle |
Website HERE
Phone Number: 301.834.6400
|
|
Operating hours have not changed! Clients will not interact intimately during their sessions. Public Spectacle is observing all of the recommended precautions for cleanliness at this time. |
| Roots & River Yoga |
Facebook HERE
Website HERE
Phone Number: 240.938.8622
|
Yes! Online ordering available. |
Roots & River Yoga is offering online yoga and meditation courses! They are no longer operating in person hours. To find out how you can participate, visit their website! |
| Smoketown Brewing Station |
Facebook HERE
Website HERE
Phone Number: 301.834.4828
|
Yes! Online or call to order. |
Take out options available from 12PM-5PM Thursday through Sunday (though not guarenteed). Please call ahead to order! |
| Stroker’s BBQ |
Facebook HERE
Website HERE
Phone Number: 301.712.4137
|
Yes! Call to order. Online processing available by phone. |
Stroker’s is keeping regular business hours and offer crubside assistance! |
| Three Points Cycles |
Facebook HERE
Website HERE
Phone Number: 301.834.7199
|
Yes! Call to order. |
Winter operational hours are still ongoing. Three Points Cycles can process online payments and curbside deliver upon request! Three Points Cycles are meticulously cleaning their shop on a regular basis. Bike tune-ups are still available! |
| Towpath Creamery |
Facebook HERE
Website HERE
Phone Number: 301.969.6480
|
Yes! Call to order |
Take out options available! Crubside assistance and delivery information pending. Operating with regular winter hours for now. |
| Weis Markets |
Facebook HERE
Phone Number: 301.834.4800
|
|
Weis is currently suspending their curbside service and are focusing on meeting current demand. |
| Wing’n Pizza Shack |
Facebook HERE
Website HERE
Phone Number: 301.834.5555
|
|
Wing’n Pizza Shack will operate normal business hours with take-out and delivery! |
by Carmen Hilton | Feb 18, 2020 | Main Street Blog
The “Railroad Square Project” is a proposed mixed-use (commercial and residential) project that would impact a critical section of downtown Brunswick. The project would create 46 affordable housing units and 15,000 square feet of retail/ office space along West Potomac Street. It is important to distinguish that there are two elements of the project: one element that will create affordable housing units and will be applying for low income housing credits through the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) (find out more about the tax credits HERE), and a second element that would create retail space along West Potomac Street which will not be included in the tax credit proposal. To learn more about the project please refer to the web link HERE and continue to monitor it for any changes.
In this post, Brunswick Main Street will be focusing on the first element of the project (the properties included in the low income housing tax credit application). The current plan, would involve the restoration of 1 South Maple Ave (2-4 W Potomac Street) also known as the “Mommer’s building” and the removal/ demolition of the remaining buildings (5 S Maple Ave, 9 S Maple Ave, Karn’s Building on S Maryland Ave). Brunswick Main Street is not an authority on deeming properties to be historically significant or not. Therefore, we asked three relevant historical authorities for their expert opinions:
Local historian, author, and President of the Brunswick Potomac Foundation (operators of the Brunswick Heritage Museum) James Castle[1] finds that each of the properties in question bear historic merit. Castle supports his findings in a paper he has written in this document “RR Square“.
Maryland’s oldest preservation organization, Preservation Maryland[2], is dedicated to advocacy, outreach and education, and funding preservation efforts throughout the state. Preservation Maryland largely defines historically significant properties based upon their inclusion in the National Register (HERE and HERE). They believe in the purpose of historic districts; there is value in the collective presence of multiple buildings of historic nature which compose a historic streetscape. Preservation Maryland references the following studies: “Brunswick, Maryland Downtown Revitalization Study” (1985 Downtown Revitilization Study (1)) from the University of Maryland School of Architecture recommends the demolition of the Karn’s Building (located on S Maryland Ave) in favor of a new shopping complex, “The Historic Resource Study of Brunswick, Maryland” (brunswick-historic resource study (1)) by Edward D. Smith of the Historic Preservation Team of the National Park Services does not refer to any of the buildings in question, and finally the “ ‘Rooted deeply in our past’: A landscape history of Brunswick, Maryland” (Rooted deeply in our past_ A landscape history of Brunswick Ma (1)) by Alyssa R. Fisher of James Madison University does refer to the role of the Karn’s Building in Brunswick’s development but does not refer to any of the other buildings in question. These studies add additional context to the Railroad Square Project.
Finally, The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT)[3] is the state agency dedicated to preserving and interpreting the legacy of Maryland’s past. As Maryland state agencies, the MHT and the DHCD work closely together. To identify historically significant properties, MHT uses two main tools: the National Register (HERE and HERE), and the period of significance (which for Brunswick is 1890-1930). Using these tools, MHT finds the following:
- 1 South Maple Ave – Listed on the National Register – therefore historically significant.
- 5 South Maple Ave – Listed on the National Register, built in 1789 (not during the period of significance) – therefore historically significant.
- 9 South Maple Ave – Listed on the National Register, built in 1787 (not during the period of significance) – therefore historically significant
- Karn’s Building on South Maryland Ave – Listed on the National Register, built in 1787 (not during the period of significance) – therefore historically significant.
Can the low income tax credits be awarded to a project that includes an intention to demolish historically significant buildings?
Answer: Yes.
As earlier stated, the MHT and DHCD work very closely together. If the tax credits are awarded, the National Historic Preservation Act becomes applicable to the project. This Act, in section 106, is the primary federal law regarding review of federal projects for effects on historic preservation. The Maryland Historical Trust Act of 1985 as amended, State Finance and Procurement Article §§ 5A- 325 and 5A-326 of the Annotated Code of Maryland, is the applicable state law. You can find out more about these Acts HERE.
In short, a Section 106 review of the effects as they relate to historic preservation will occur. A Section 106 review ensures that preservation values are factored into federal/state agency planning and decisions. Because of Section 106, federal/state agencies must assume responsibility for the consequences of the projects they carry out, approve, or fund on historic properties and be publicly accountable for their decisions.
A Section 106 review would require the developer (in this case Verdant Development Group) to make its case to MHT and the DHCD and consulting parties. It also requires that the public be given opportunities to share their view points on the historic merit of the properties in question. Consulting parties in this review can include local governments, advisory councils on historic preservation, state preservation officers, and other relevant organizations that the state agency approves. To learn more about Section 106 and the review, please click here: CitizenGuide2015v4-spreads layout
Ultimately, the Section 106 review outcome will be determined by the DHCD and the MHT. The outcome may still include the demolition of the properties in question or it may call for a new plan to be established. Mitigation will also be factored in to the outcome of the review.
Where does Brunswick Main Street stand with all of this?
Brunswick Main Street is part of the Maryland Main Street program, which is housed under the DHCD. Therefore, Brunswick Main Street supports all of the decisions made by the DHCD and MHT in regards to this project. Brunswick Main Street advocates for an early Section 106 review so that a meaningful review can occur. We believe in the power of development and in the merit of historic preservation. While this blog post addresses the historic value of the buildings involved in the Railroad Square Project, Brunswick Main Street will need to determine, as information becomes available, its stance on other aspects of this project
[1] This disclaimer informs readers that the views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the text belong solely to the author, and not necessarily to the author’s employer, organization, committee or other group or individual. Moreover, in referencing the works of James Castle, he is not agreeing to the views expressed by any other organization referenced in this text.
[2] This disclaimer informs readers that the views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the text belong solely to the author, and not necessarily to the author’s employer, organization, committee or other group or individual. Moreover, in referencing the works provided by Preservation Maryland, the organization is not agreeing to the views expressed by any other organization referenced in this text.
[3] This disclaimer informs readers that the views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the text belong solely to the author, and not necessarily to the author’s employer, organization, committee or other group or individual. Moreover, in referencing the process of the Maryland Historical Trust, the organization is not agreeing to the views expressed by any other organization referenced in this text
by Carmen Hilton | Jan 22, 2020 | Main Street Blog
Downtown Brunswick is home to so many wonderful eateries and restaurants that are perfect for the whole family to enjoy! We have an awesome opportunity for our community to celebrate these amazing culinary experiences. For a limited time, $20.00 will get you $25.00 worth of purchasing power at participating restaurants: Beans in the Belfry, Boxcar Burgers, King’s Pizza, Potomac Street Grill, Stroker’s BBQ and Towpath Creamery.
Brunswick Main Street is selling coupon booklets which are made up of five coupons valued at $5.00 each that can be redeemed from February 1st to February 9th, 2020. To purchase your booklet, fill out the form below.
*NOTE: YOU MAY NOW PICK UP YOUR COUPON BOOKLET FROM TOWPATH CREAMERY (must show recepit).
by Carmen Hilton | Oct 15, 2019 | Main Street Blog
Open Air Museum in Downtown Brunswick
Downtown Brunswick has an incredible railroad and canal history. To celebrate our history and spruce up some of the windows in our downtown, the Brunswick Main Street Design Committee worked with the Brunswick Heritage Museum, City of Brunswick History Commission and local artist Joanne Rodgers to place historic Brunswick photos and artwork in empty storefront windows. In total, there are 15 historic images and 2 pieces of local artwork.
Local artist Joanne Rodgers also made some wonderful illustrations on what COULD go into some of these storefronts. For more information about the available commericial properties within our downtown, click HERE.
History Quiz:
Do you have what it takes to answer our history quiz? After strolling through our downtown and seeing all of the wonderful historic photos, can you answer the following questions?
Each correct submission will be entered into a drawing for a FREE yoga class from Roots & River Yoga.
