How Bill Fuchs saved — and then grew — a beloved D.C. institution
He was initially rebuffed in his bid to acquire the family-owned business. Now he wants to ensure he can find the right successor.
Welcome to Washington Business Journal
Residential Real Estate
90 acres on the Potomac, three miles from Trump National, asks $17M
The assembled three-parcel site includes a quarter-mile of river frontage and could support uses ranging from a private compound to an events venue.
Health Care
McLean telehealth company nearing IPO
It would be at least the fourth Greater Washington business to go public this year.
Commercial Real Estate
Apartment giant AvalonBay to merge with Chicago rival
The combined company will control more than 180,000 rental apartments across the country.
Career & Workplace
Arlington Economic Development names new director
The appointment follows a nearly six-month national search for someone who will wield significant influence in writing the next chapter of the county's growth.
Commercial Real Estate
Trump officials intend to bypass congressional approval for huge arch
The administration argues a 1924 congressional authorization for columns that were never built allows construction of the arch.
Technology
Arlington startup swaps coworking space for stand-alone office
The privacy-focused mobile carrier has secured more than $10 million in government contracts over the past year.
Featured
President and CEO
HyeSook Chung
Baltimore Civic Fund
HyeSook Chung is the President and CEO of the Baltimore Civic Fund, where she leads innovative public-private partnerships and civic investment strategies designed to accelerate transformational projects across Baltimore. Under her leadership, the Civic Fund has evolved into a key implementation and fundraising partner for the City, helping align philanthropy, government, and private-sector expertise to move complex initiatives forward effectively. Chung oversees major initiatives focused on infrastructure, economic development, and community investment, including citywide trail networks, youth sports facilities, and emerging impact investment strategies. Known for her collaborative leadership style, she specializes in building cross-sector coalitions that help navigate funding, governance, and execution challenges while maintaining strong public accountability. Her work is centered on creating scalable models for investment that improve how cities deliver projects and drive impact.
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Employers and Who's Who
These are the 50 highest-paid 501(c)(3) nonprofit executives in Greater Washington
50 People
Source: Form 990s
Employers and Who's Who
Here are the 10 Best Places to Work in Greater Washington, Extra-Large Companies
10 Businesses
Notes: Ranking based on a survey of the company's Greater Washington employees administered by Quantum Workplace. Size categories are as follows: Small companies, 10 to 24 employees; Medium companies, 25 to 49 employees; Large companies, 50 to 249 employees; Extra-large companies, 250+ employees.
Employers and Who's Who
Here are the 35 Best Places to Work in Greater Washington, Large Companies
35 Businesses
Notes: Ranking based on a survey of the company's Greater Washington employees administered by Quantum Workplace. Size categories are as follows: Small companies, 10 to 24 employees; Medium companies, 25 to 49 employees; Large companies, 50 to 249 employees; Extra-large companies, 250+ employees.
Employers and Who's Who
Here are the 30 Best Places to Work in Greater Washington, Medium Companies
30 Businesses
Notes: Ranking based on a survey of the company's Greater Washington employees administered by Quantum Workplace. Size categories are as follows: Small companies, 10 to 24 employees; Medium companies, 25 to 49 employees; Large companies, 50 to 249 employees; Extra-large companies, 250+ employees.
Employers and Who's Who
Here are the 25 Best Places to Work in Greater Washington, Small Companies
25 Businesses
Notes: Ranking based on a survey of the company's Greater Washington employees administered by Quantum Workplace. Size categories are as follows: Small companies, 10 to 24 employees; Medium companies, 25 to 49 employees; Large companies, 50 to 249 employees; Extra-large companies, 250+ employees.
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Featured 
Construction
Kramer Enterprises
general news
Jennifer Kramer is believed to be one of the youngest Hispanic women to build and scale a waste management company of this size in the Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia region, and among the youngest business owners overall to achieve this level of growth in the industry. What she and her husband, Austin Kramer, have built, a company operating more than 15 commercial trucks, employing over 48 team members, and managing more than 660 active service contracts, stands as a remarkable achievement in an industry not traditionally known for young ownership, diversity, or women in executive leadership. Jennifer was born in Washington, DC, to a family originally from Central America. Spanish is her first language, and entrepreneurship was part of her upbringing from an early age. She grew up watching her parents run their own business and developed an understanding of hard work, operations, and financial discipline. By the age of 14, she was already working, a drive that would shape the rest of her life. She earned dual bachelor’s degrees in Business Management and Accounting while simultaneously playing college softball and working part-time. Jennifer later earned her MBA from Washington Adventist University, balancing academics, athletics, work, and ambition. It was there that she met Austin Kramer, where the foundation for both their relationship and future company quietly began. In one of the company’s most meaningful full-circle moments, Kramer Enterprises now provides roll-off services for the very university where two young students once dreamed about building something bigger than themselves. Shortly after graduating, while they were still dating, Jennifer and Austin founded Kramer Enterprises LLC with a single junk removal truck, no outside investors, no business loans, and no family money. They are first-generation waste management entrepreneurs who continue to represent one of the youngest ownership teams in the industry, building their company entirely from the ground up through persistence, sacrifice, and belief in their vision. Today, Kramer Enterprises is one of the fastest-growing waste management companies in the DMV region. The company serves multifamily residential communities, office and commercial properties, construction and demolition sites, schools, churches, and businesses throughout Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Jennifer oversees the company’s financial, administrative, and strategic operations, while Austin has led client growth, fleet expansion, and operational development since the beginning. As younger business owners in a traditionally old-school industry, Jennifer and Austin have embraced technology and modern communication strategies to improve efficiency. Kramer Enterprises has created remote and flexible opportunities for administrative team members while also using social media and digital platforms to educate the public about waste management, recycling, and the essential role the industry plays in everyday life. As a Hispanic woman leading within an industry where Hispanics represent a large portion of the frontline workforce but remain underrepresented in ownership and executive leadership, Jennifer has made it a mission to help change that reality. She developed bilingual onboarding and training programs in both English and Spanish, mentors bilingual team members into leadership positions, and creates opportunities for individuals who may have never imagined themselves in management roles. Kramer Enterprises is equally committed to investing in its workforce. The company supports employees pursuing commercial licenses, creates opportunities for new CDL drivers entering the industry, and encourages long-term professional growth throughout the organization. That same belief in people extends into one of Jennifer’s most personal commitments: creating real opportunity for young working mothers. Having balanced work, academics, athletics, entrepreneurship, and eventually motherhood herself, Jennifer understands the pressure many women face when trying to build careers without sacrificing family life. At Kramer Enterprises, employees are encouraged to succeed professionally without feeling forced to choose between career growth and parenthood. Flexible scheduling, remote work opportunities, and a culture grounded in understanding and support have become defining parts of the company’s identity. Jennifer Kramer is not simply building a waste management company. She is helping redefine what leadership in the industry can look like, proving that a first-generation entrepreneur, bilingual leader, business executive, and devoted mother can build something that not only succeeds, but creates opportunity and lasting impact for others along the way.
Featured
Technology
Saalex Corporation
career opportunities
Founded in 1999 by Travis Mack, Saalex Corporation has grown into a leading Advanced Technology Systems Integrator focused on solving complex challenges across the defense, space, and intelligence communities. What began as a small business with a clear vision has evolved into a trusted partner supporting critical national security missions. Today, nearly 1,000 employee-owners power our work, bringing deep technical expertise and a shared commitment to delivering results in artificial intelligence, automation, software modernization, information technology, and cybersecurity. At Saalex, you are not just supporting critical missions, you are helping shape them. Our teams work side by side with customers to strengthen capabilities across undersea, surface, and air warfare, along with the rapidly expanding space domain. Whether it is supporting advanced weapons systems, enabling mission readiness, or modernizing legacy platforms, our work directly contributes to operational success. From precision test range operations and immersive training programs to engineering, logistics, and next-generation cybersecurity, Saalex is positioned at the intersection of innovation and mission execution. Our approach is hands-on and mission-focused. Employees are given the opportunity to take ownership of meaningful work from day one, collaborating across disciplines to solve real-world challenges. This includes developing and implementing advanced technologies that improve efficiency, enhance decision-making, and strengthen security for our customers. The work is dynamic, often evolving alongside emerging threats and new technological advancements, which creates an environment where continuous learning and adaptability are essential. We are also advancing the future of technology through our focus on artificial intelligence and Unattended Robotic Process Automation (URPA)™. These capabilities allow us to streamline operations, reduce manual processes, and deliver smarter, faster solutions to our customers. Employees have the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge tools and frameworks, contributing to innovations that have a direct impact on national security and the broader technology landscape. This is not theoretical work, it is applied, mission-driven innovation with real outcomes. What sets Saalex apart is our people and the ownership they have in the company. As an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) organization, every team member has a vested interest in our success. This ownership model creates a culture rooted in accountability, collaboration, and shared purpose. Employees are encouraged to bring forward ideas, take initiative, and contribute to the company’s growth in meaningful ways. Success is not viewed as individual achievement alone, but as something that is built and shared across the organization. That culture extends beyond day-to-day work. Saalex is committed to supporting employee growth through professional development, mentorship, and opportunities to expand technical and leadership skills. Whether you are early in your career or bringing years of experience, there is a clear path to grow, contribute, and take on new challenges. Teams are built on mutual respect and a strong sense of collaboration, creating an environment where people feel supported and empowered to do their best work. Saalex also understands the importance of balance and long-term career sustainability. While the work is mission-driven and impactful, the company places value on creating an environment where employees can build lasting careers. The combination of meaningful work, shared ownership, and a supportive culture makes Saalex a place where people choose to stay and grow. If you are looking for a place where your work has real impact, your contributions are recognized, and your success is connected to something larger than yourself, Saalex Corporation offers that opportunity. Here, you are not just building a career, you are helping drive innovation, support critical missions, and shape the future alongside a team that is invested in your success.
Featured
Arts/Entertainment
Baltimore Center Stage
general news
Founded in 1963 and designated the State Theater of Maryland in 1978, Baltimore Center Stage provides high-quality theater and programming for all members of the community, including youth, families and lifelong arts audiences. Since our inception, we have grown into one of the region’s leading professional arts institutions, dedicated to producing work that reflects the complexity, diversity, and creativity of Baltimore and beyond. The work we do at Baltimore Center Stage is guided by our core values, with “Access For All” at the center of our mission. This commitment goes beyond language and extends into practice—ensuring that barriers to participation are actively addressed through programming, pricing accessibility, education initiatives and community partnerships. We believe that theater should be a shared civic resource, available to everyone regardless of background, experience or circumstance. This philosophy shapes everything from our mainstage productions to outreach efforts in schools and neighborhoods across the region. Under the leadership of Artistic Director Stevie Walker-Webb and Producing Director Ken-Matt Martin, Baltimore Center Stage continues to expand our artistic vision while deepening our connection to the community. Together, we guide an eclectic and dynamic season of professional productions that span contemporary and family-friendly works, reimagined classics and bold new voices in theater. Our productions take place across two mainstages as well as an intimate 99-seat theater, allowing for both large-scale storytelling and smaller, more experimental work, that invites close engagement between artists and audiences. The design of Baltimore Center Stage’s performance spaces plays a central role in shaping the audience experience. Our intimate theaters are intentionally crafted to bring audiences closer to the action, fostering a sense of immediacy, presence and emotional connection. Every seat is positioned to feel near the stage, allowing subtle expressions, physical nuance and layered performances to resonate more deeply. This closeness enhances the impact of each production, supported by high-cal’[] iber acting, thoughtful direction, and innovative scenic lighting and sound design. The result is an environment where storytelling feels immersive, personal and alive. Located in Baltimore’s historic Mount Vernon neighborhood, we are situated in one of the city’s most culturally significant districts. The surrounding area is home to iconic landmarks such as the Washington Monument (Baltimore), the Walters Art Museum and the George Peabody Library. These institutions, along with historic architecture and a strong concentration of arts and cultural organizations, contribute to Mount Vernon’s distinctive identity as a hub of learning, creativity and civic life. Baltimore Center Stage is deeply embedded in this environment, serving as both a cultural anchor and a gathering place within a broader artistic ecosystem that reflects Baltimore’s rich heritage. Beyond our mainstage productions, Baltimore Center Stage is deeply committed to community engagement and education. Through workshops, artist residencies, school partnerships and public programs, we work to ensure that access to the arts is meaningful and sustained. These initiatives create pathways for individuals of all ages and backgrounds to engage with theater not only as audience members, but also as participants, creators and collaborators. Student and community nights, talkbacks with artists and partnerships with local organizations, all contribute to a larger ecosystem of access and inclusion. Each of our programs are designed to remove barriers while fostering curiosity, dialogue and creative expression. Our organization’s education and community programming is rooted in the belief that theater can be both reflective and transformative. By engaging directly with students, educators and community groups, Baltimore Center Stage helps cultivate new generations of theatergoers and storytellers. These efforts extend the impact of each production beyond the stage, creating ongoing opportunities for learning, conversation and connection. Whether you are a lifelong theater enthusiast or experiencing live performance for the first time, we invite you into an environment that is welcoming, engaging and thought-provoking. It is a space where storytelling comes to life in immediate and meaningful ways and where audiences are encouraged not only to witness performance but to connect with it—and with one another. In the heart of the city, Baltimore Center Stage stands as a vibrant reminder of the enduring power of live theater to inspire, challenge, and bring people together across differences and generations.
Hospitality
The Hotel at University of Maryland
general news
The Hotel at the University of Maryland is an escape from the norm. It’s a hotel but also an experience. Whether you are visiting for a weekend away, a conference or meeting, a wedding or the opportunity to see the heart of our country’s government, this AAA Four-Diamond hotel and conference center in College Park, Maryland, has amenities to make your stay as unique as you are…and it’s all adjacent to the University of Maryland campus and close to Baltimore, Washington, D.C. and Annapolis. Come for the stay. Stay for the experience.
Featured
Advertising/Marketing
Adventure Web Digital LLC
general news
Charlie Strouse, Jr. Acquires Key Assets of Adventure Web Interactive, Expanding Digital Capabilities and Market Reach Baltimore, Maryland - In a strategic move that signals continued growth and innovation in the digital marketing space, Charlie Strouse acquired the key assets of Adventure Web Interactive, a long-established and award-winning website design and digital marketing agency with a legacy dating back to 1997. This acquisition represents a significant expansion of digital capabilities, service offerings, and market reach, combining decades of proven expertise with forward-thinking leadership and modern digital strategy. For businesses seeking results-driven online growth, the move reinforces a commitment to innovation, performance, and long-term partnership. A Legacy Built on Digital Excellence Over nearly three decades, Adventure Web Digital has built a diverse portfolio spanning small businesses, enterprise organizations, nonprofits, and eCommerce brands. Its award-winning work is known for blending creative design with technical excellence, producing websites and campaigns that are not only visually compelling, but also strategically engineered to perform. From custom website design and eCommerce development to search engine optimization (SEO), content creation, social media management, and digital advertising, Adventure Web Digital consistently delivers measurable results. As a proud Google Partner, the agency has demonstrated expertise in paid advertising, analytics, and data-driven decision making, ensuring clients receive real ROI, not vanity metrics. Custom Website Design & Development Visually compelling, conversion-focused websites built for speed, security, scalability, and performance. eCommerce Solutions Seamless online shopping experiences optimized for user experience, search visibility, and sales growth. Custom Software Development Custom CRM solutions tailored to the unique needs of your business. With a proven track record of creating CRMs for industries such as flooring and plumbing, Adventure Web Digital is ready to help you take your operations to the next level. Investing in a custom CRM offers a wealth of advantages that prepackaged software can’t match. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and AI Optimization (AIO) Comprehensive search strategies that improve visibility across traditional search engines while also preparing content for emerging AI-driven platforms like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and other tools that influence how users find information online. Content Creation & Strategy High-quality, brand-aligned content that builds trust, supports SEO efforts, and engages audiences across multiple channels. Social Media Management Strategic planning, content publishing, and audience engagement across key platforms to strengthen brand visibility and foster meaningful connections. Digital Advertising & PPC Management Google Ads, display advertising, and retargeting campaigns driven by analytics and conversion optimization. At the core of every service is a focus on measurable outcomes, traffic growth, lead generation, sales performance, and brand authority. A Continued Commitment to Results At its core, Adventure Web Digital remains focused on delivering measurable outcomes. Every service is designed to help businesses increase traffic, generate qualified leads, and drive revenue growth. This results-driven approach ensures that clients benefit not only from creative and technical expertise, but also from strategies that directly impact their bottom line. Looking Ahead The acquisition represents more than growth; it reflects a commitment to staying ahead of industry trends and continuously evolving to meet the needs of modern businesses. With expanded resources, enhanced capabilities, and a renewed focus on innovation, Adventure Web Digital is well-equipped to help clients navigate the future of digital marketing with confidence. Call 410.788.7007 or visit advp.com to learn how Adventure Web Digital can help elevate your digital strategy and drive meaningful growth.