Sass Fall 2016

FALL 2016

Magazine

WOMEN WHO

ROCK WEAR YOUR

AWESOME

BEAUTY

MYTHS

Kalico offers graphic design services specializing in the health & wellness, organic, women-oriented, holistic, and pet-related industries.

(We know, it’s kind of a mouthful, but we strongly believe that all of these industries aid in a “wholistic well-being.” And, well, we kind of like that!) How can we help you?

GRAPHIC DESIGN Services include: • Logo & Identity Design • Magazine & Publication Layout • Web Design • Collateral Design • Event & Tradeshow Branding

• Brochure Layout • Newsletter and eNews Templates • Catalog Design • And So Much More! (no, seriously, we actually do a lot more!)

www.kalicodesign.com | 240.243. 065 /kalicodesign @kalicodesign /kalicodesign

Interior Design Services Color Consults Interior & Exterior Paint Vintage & Designer Wallpaper Fabric & Window Treatments Picture Framing

Pa int & Wallpaper Stockist

er Pa int Reta il

220 E. Patrick St., Frederick, MD Mon. – Sat. | 10a.m. – 6p.m.

240.575.5875

patrickstreetinteriors.com

A favorite of the neighborhood and popular destination for out-of-town visitors. Upscale dining experience with a lively tavern atmosphere.

301-663-0330 firestonesrestaurant.com

OPENING

FALL 2016

Cultivating friendships with delicious food and drink

The freshest oysters from the northeast. Charcuterie specialties from Chef Andrew Mayers and hand-crafted cocktails.

301-663-0330 firestonesrawbar.com

Our Tavern’s kitchen provides ingredients for remarkable sandwiches, house-made soups, salads and fresh-baked breads. Specialty foods and an affordable selection of wine and beer. Gift baskets made-toorder for any occasion.

301-696-8586 firestonesmarket.com 105–113 N. MARKET STREET • FREDERICK

contents

Online ives!! c ex lus great For more to reads, go .com azine sassmag

FEATURES 18 Woman to Watch Karlys Kline 26 Women at the Height of Higher Education 32 Women Who Rock 40

Fashion Work Wear

60

32

22 Departments 8 Business Spotlight Frederick Dermatology Associates

50 Travel A Visit to Downtown Annapolis

12 Girl’s Guide to Glamping

54 Career How to Wear Your Awesome

14 Girl’s Guide to Camping 22 Inspire/Empower Christine Ferguson 47 Fashion Spotlight Teonya Fowler 48 Beauty Breaking Beauty Code

4

SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

58 Health A Trip to Your Medical Provider's Office 60 Recipe Fall Flavors

50 C o v e r : This issue's Woman to Watch, Karlys Kline; photography by Mary Kate McKenna Photography. See page 18 for the full story.

Designer Labels…

Low Prices 30 E. Patrick St. | Frederick, MD 15900 Luanne Dr. | Gaithersburg, MD 301.620.8889

www.chictochic.com

Half Price Wine Bottles Monday – Wednesday | 4:00 - Close

In Historic Downtown Middletown 14 West Main Street • Middletown, MD 301-371-4433

www.themaincuprestaurant.com

Category header MAGAZINE

125 E. Patrick St., Ste. 3 Frederick, MD 21701 www.sassmagazine.com

thanks

Fall 2016 | Vol. 2, Issue 1

for a

Owner + Publisher Kim Dow kim@sassmagazine.com

Fashion Editor Brittany Carpenter fashion@sassmagazine.com Creative Jen Tyler, Senior Designer Leigh Caulfield, Designer www.kalicodesign.com CONTRIBUTORS Brittany Carpenter, Rebecca Carrera, Kimberly Dow, Sarah Kurtanich, Chrissy Moore, Dawn Mossburg, Jennifer Neidenbach, Laura Rennie, Lindsay Smith Rogers, Alicia Schwartzbeck, Melanie Spring photographers Emily Gude, Sarah Kurtanich, Mary Kate McKenna, Andrew Murdock, Meghan Shupe, Jen Tyler ACCOUNTING Alicia Schwartzbeck accounting@sassmagazine.com Advertising Kim Dow advertising@sassmagazine.com Ashley Bailey admin@sassmagazine.com distribution manager Timothy Moore info@sassmagazine.com digital coordinator Laura Rennie info@sassmagazine.com additional Sass crew Jamie Shopland Rebecca Robinson Printing Graphcom | www.graphcom.com Sass Magazine is a free quarterly publication in the Frederick and western Maryland region that is also available for a paid subscription. Customer inquiries should be directed to Sass Magazine, LLC. All contents of this publication are protected by copyright and may not be reproduced in whole or in part for any reason without prior consent of the publisher.

Holy. Crap! Just a year ago I was writing my very first publisher’s letter and feeling very excited, yet nervous, not knowing how Sass Magazine would be received. We’ve officially hit our 1-year mark, and this issue starts our second year of print editions. It’s been an exciting whirlwind and the amazing Sass Crew and I can’t express how thankful we are to all those who’ve continued to support us and cheer us on.

I’d like to take this opportunity to re-introduce the Sass team, because we’ve grown over the past year! Huge thanks to: Mary Kate Battles, managing editor; Chrissy Moore, copy editor and lead writer; Brittany Carpenter, fashion editor; Alicia Schwartzbeck, accounting; Jen Tyler and Leigh Caulfield, our amazing designers; Rebecca Robinson and Jamie Shopland, events, planning and support; Laura Rennie, digital coordinator; Tim Moore, distribution manager; Jimmy Dow, videographer and photoshoot assistant; Ashley Bailey (our newest team member), advertising and administrative support; and Donna Moore, proofreader and never-ending Mom support. It takes a village, people!

And I would be remiss to not thank our wonderful advertisers. Without them, Sass Magazine would simply not exist. So, please support the businesses, organizations and events you’ll see on these pages and also at SassMagazine.com. Support them, visit them, recommend them—let them know you saw them in Sass Magazine!

Over the past year we’ve had the privilege to highlight some phenomenal women—entrepreneurs, political figures, teachers, authors, public workers, chefs, motorcyclists, weightlifters and more—who’ve challenged society’s view of women. And this issue is no exception! We speak to women breaking the glass ceiling in both higher education and the music industry.

We’ve spotlighted two women whose volunteer and philanthropic efforts are helping to do amazing things for local organizations and charities. And, of course, we’ve also got your beauty and fashion needs covered with career-inspired fashions and beauty myths debunked.

Sass Magazine is not just a print magazine. We also have an active website with thought-provoking, entertaining and informational articles posted on a weekly basis (not to mention some fun behind-the-scenes videos from our photoshoots!). You can also find us on social media—Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest—for additional resources as well as contests and great prizes. We’ve also started hosting events throughout the year—look for our quarterly Girls Night Out (GNO), and other events we’re a part of such as Goddess Jam, taking place September 9th (with the help of FNP events, Frederick Playlist and Colonial Jewelers).

Also, be sure to sign up for our weekly eNewsletter full of carefully curated articles you know you’re gonna want to read through!

Thank you so much for your support over this past year. We look forward to many more!

Advertising Information: advertising@sassmagazine.com We thank our advertisers for their support!

6

/sassfrederick

Publisher & Owner

SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

/sassfrederick /sassmagazine

P h o t o g r a p h y: va r i o u s

great year!

COPY EDITOR Chrissy Moore copyeditor@sassmagazine.com

BIZ SPOtlight

DERM

Frederick Dermatology Associates is a full service dermatology office in Frederick, MD offering medical, surgical and cosmetic treatments to help you look as young as you feel.

8

SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

P h o t o g r a p h y: B e t t i n a P l a u g e r - A & M P h o t o g r a p h y, e r m at o l o g y A s s o c i at e s P h o t o g rCaop u hr y:t enseye do fp hF r o et d o egrriacpkhD er

Business Spotlight

Frederick

BIZ SPOtlight

Atology

ASSOCIATES

By Dr. Kathleen Moe

From injectables and laser hair removal to body contouring, acne treatment and dermatopathology, the board certified dermatologists and treatment providers of Frederick Dermatology Associates will have you looking and feeling your best. Serving clients that range from newborns to seniors, their holistic approach to dermatology is top notch.

Winning the 2015 Frederick News Post’s “Best of the Best” contest a mere five years after opening their doors speaks volumes to the kind of care and attention they offer their clients…something reflected in the warmhearted responses from Dr. Kathleen Moe, founding partner in the practice.

Why did you decide to start this business?

A: My partner/co-owner, Kevin Hogan, and I met at Georgetown University Hospital and discussed opening a practice together. We wanted to have a full service medical, surgical, and cosmetic practice and wanted to open it in a place where there was a need for more high quality dermatological care.

How did you decide on the business name?

A: That was pretty easy! We wanted a name that said what the practice is and that would allow patients to find us conveniently on the internet.

What makes your business stand out?

A: Quality patient care and the best possible customer service is what Frederick Dermatology Associates prides itself on. In addition, we have a state-of-the-art facility with the most current technologies. This all adds up to a superior experience that exceeds expectations.

We are also a company that greatly values giving back to our community. Frederick is a wonderful place to live and work, and we make it a priority to get involved and to try to make it even better! Our employees feel the same way. We are a team and a family which truly cares about our patients, each other, and our community.

What is a typical day like?

A: Every day is a mix of being a doctor and being a business owner. My average day is a very busy combination of seeing

patients, talking to patients on the phone, dealing with personnel issues, and planning for short term and longer term projects.

What is your background?

A: Medical education is a long journey. After graduating from college at Michigan State, I was accepted to Georgetown University School of Medicine. After graduating, I did an OB-GYN internship at New York Presbyterian Cornell Weill Medical Center, planning on a career in reproductive endocrinology and infertility. I discovered that wasn’t a good fit and decided to pursue dermatology. This led to a second internal medicine internship back at Georgetown, a year of private practice leading a medical spa in Washington D.C., and a residency at the Georgetown University/Washington Hospital Center Dermatology program. It was there I met Kevin, who was the residency director at Georgetown. If it sounds like a lot of school – it was!

What is it like to work for you?

A: Challenging, exciting, and extremely rewarding all in one. There is no other practice of medicine like dermatology and aesthetic medicine, and no other community like Frederick. I feel very fortunate and grateful.

FALL 16

9

BIZ SPOtlight

A: The growth of Frederick’s population is great for our medical practice, as it is for many Frederick area businesses. The diversity of new residents and businesses enriches our lives and our neighborhoods. All the providers at Frederick Dermatology live in the county and call it home.

What is the best part about what you do?

What is the most challenging?

A: The best part about the job is helping people with their skin problems and seeing their health and happiness improve as they continue to visit us. A growing part of our practice is cosmetic dermatology. We have spent countless hours mastering our techniques, and we pride ourselves on natural results.

Much of dermatology is science, but with this aspect of the field, it is very artistic as well.

new skin care store that will be available at the office as well as online. The goal is to provide our patients with the finest quality, hand-selected skin care products in the area. Five years—possibly a second office, but time will tell.

Can you describe your customers?

A: Our customers range from newborn babies to the most senior of seniors. Dermatology is about taking care of the skin of all ages and races. In short, we have everybody as our customers.

What is the single most critical talent you possess in your role as a business owner?

A: Multi-tasking as a business owner and compassion as a physician.

When you’re not running your business, what are you doing?

A: I adore spending time with my daughter (Caroline) and son (Stiles), and when we can both find some free time, my husband, Allie. I am a pretty serious exercise fanatic and have a workout space/sanctuary in my basement, and I love traveling.

The most challenging part is the business aspect. In an earlier answer, I recited all that schooling about learning to be a doctor.

You will notice there wasn’t much about learning to be a business What matters most in your business? owner! So, we spend a lot of time not only keeping up with our A: Doing the best for our patients. The patients always specialty, but also learning how to manage a growing practice. come first.

Where do you see your business in the next year? In the next five years?

A: Frederick Dermatology is always attempting to grow and offer new dimensions of our practice to clients. We continue those efforts year by year. Currently we are building Aura, our 10 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

Frederick Dermatology Associates frederickdermatology.com

P h o t o g r a p h y: B e t t i n a P l a u g e r - A & M P h o t o g r a p h y / C o u r t e s y o f F r e d e r i c k D e r m at o l o g y A s s o c i at e s

How does the social/economic/technological environment in Frederick have an impact on your business?

Payroll mistakes are no laughing matter.

Let the experts at BMC Payroll Services manage your payroll and HR needs so that you can get back to doing what you do best.

Services Include:

Bookkeeping • Accounting • Taxes • Payroll Insurance • Financial Planning 295-B Bucheimer Road | Frederick, MD | 301-698-0795 | info@bmcaccounting.com | www.bmcaccounting.com

girl's guide If "roughing it" out in the wilderness is not your idea of a relaxing retreat then glamorous camping, or Glamping, is the thing for you! Glamping, is a growing trend that offers the excitement of being out in nature paired with some comfy amenities. Think twinkling lights, plush pillows, and mouth-watering food spreads—a way to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing the luxury.

While there are numerous glamping destinations you can visit (locally, nationally, or even internationally), why not try glamping on your own.

Check out our tips to add some razzle-dazzle to your next camping experience.

your bed to create a more romantic, fancy feel— I mean, if you’re going out all, might as well REALLY go all out!

3. Don’t Forget the Decorations.

Don’t be afraid to add some personal touches to your campsite. Bring white twinkle lights Whether you’re looking for a view of the mounand hang them up around your area. Instead tains, lake-side charm, rustic beach shores, or of packing supplies in a tote, use some large your own backyard, familiarize yourself with wicker baskets, then flip the baskets over to your destination. If you’re staying at a campsite use as a nightstand. Bring a throw rug for the or resort, plan in advance, as a lot of locations base of your tent, and fabric tablecloths and sell out, especially on holiday weekends. Inquire runners to spruce up your table set-up. Some about amenities such as running water, electriother things to consider could include: real cal hook ups, and nearby restrooms—it’s best plates and utensils (grab some colorful plastic to know what you can expect and to show up dishes to help add a splash of color!), a tapestry prepared. If you want to be totally pampered, find to hang as a back drop, lanterns and more a destination that is all set up for you through lanterns, a cute chandelier to hang from your airbnb or glamping.com. tent’s ceiling, and flower arrangements. The list can go on and on. Get creative, but also 2. Bring in the Cozy. be sure to use eco-friendly materials when First things first, invest in a good quality air possible and leave your campsite cleaner mattress. We're not talking your run of the mill than you found it. mattress-that-leaks-air-as-you-sleep-until-you're4. Feed Your Inner Foodie. basically-on-the-ground kind of mattress. We’re Just because you're camping doesn’t mean you talking a double-high, super comfy mattress! can only eat hot dogs and chips! With an open Be sure to have a battery-operated pump if you fire, a cast-iron skillet and some foil, the options don’t have electrical access. And, of course, you’ll need pillows, a few more pillows, and then are endless. Or, bring a small grill for some easy grilling recipes. Try recipes that utilize fresh, some throw pillows (you know, for color). Don’t natural, seasonal ingredients. Plus, don’t forget forget to bring multiple soft and cozy blankets, the s’mores! Check out sassmagazine.com for quilts or throws. You might even want to drape some easy glamping recipes! some soft muslin inside your tent and around

1. Location is Everything.

Remember, your great outdoors experience doesn’t mean you have to put up with bugs, dirt, sweat and critters! With a little creativity and planning, your next glamping expedition can be just as luxurious as a hotel resort, for less than half the cost!

12 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

WEB EXCLUSIVE more info at Check out ine.com ag sassm az

girl's guide

By Kim Dow

FALL 16 13

girl's guide

By Alicia Schwartzbeck

14 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

girl's guide Ahhh. The great outdoors. Breathing in the fresh forest air. The smell of toasty campfires. Cool nights sleeping under the stars. Sweeping vistas after a short hike. Can you picture it? Camping can be a great adventure, as well as a relaxing and serene trip with family or friends. But, if you’re not prepared, it can also be full of bug bites, sleeping on hard ground, rain, poison ivy and...ick. If you're ready to rough it, no offense to those Glampers out there, then here's a list of things to consider when camping to help make your next trip the best one yet:

Packing—Don’t leave home without: • Dry shampoo. When showers aren’t readily available, dry shampoo will be your saving grace from oily, unwashed hair.

• A small first aid kit: a few doses of pain medication, band aids, benadryl, cortisone cream, sunscreen face stick, bug spray, anti-bacterial spray, pre-packaged alcohol rubs for cleaning wounds and a set of tweezers – store in a small plastic container to keep everything dry and easily in reach.

• A roll of toilet paper kept in an old, plastic coffee container.

Grabbing a leaf is NOT an option here.

• A headlamp. These come in handy for hands-free late night bathroom runs, looking for firewood at night and any other evening activities.

• Extra tarps, bungees, stakes and large zip ties. If it rains you'll be glad you have these to cover and tie down items.

• An extra set of matches, kept in a small, pint-sized canning jar, topped with sand paper for easy lighting and to make sure you always have dry matches to start a fire.

Fire Building Essentials—build a blazing fire like an old pro: 1. Make sure you have a safe, open area for your fire. If a fire ring isn’t provided within your campsite (and open fires are permitted), then collect some medium sized rocks to create a small ring to safely contain your fire.

2. Collect kindling. This includes smaller, dry pieces of wood and needles that ignite easily.

3. If you brought newspaper, place crumpled newspaper in the middle of fire ring and then place kindling on top of the newspaper.

4. Create a teepee out of your larger logs around the newspaper/kindling, making sure there is room between

the kindling and the top of the teepee so that air can get through.

5. Light the newspaper, and then grab some marshmallows!

6. You will probably have to add kindling to keep the blaze going until the logs have sufficiently caught fire. You will then need to continue adding logs to the fire as the initial logs dwindle down.

7. Don’t forget to bring a container filled with water to make sure your fire embers are completely out before you go to bed.

Cooking—Don’t forget these time saving tricks: • Freeze all items that can be frozen, this will cut down on how much ice you need in your cooler.

• Freeze old gallon water jugs or juice jugs and place them in your cooler, versus using ice. This way when they melt you don’t have to worry about water getting in your food. Plus, you can drink that water once they’ve defrosted.

• Pre-cook any food items that can be cooked ahead of time.

Pre-cook breakfast meats, like bacon, so all you have to do is reheat when you need them. This saves you lots of time, and you don’t have to store pre-cooked meat as cold as raw meat.

Now you’re ready to take on that fall camping trip you’ve always wanted to plan. Grab your girls, guys or family and have a blast chilling with Mother Nature! Roughing it never seemed so easy. Oh, I forgot one more essential item for the packing list—THIS here issue of Sass Magazine!

FALL 16 15

We’ve done our homework!

Here are the teachers’ recommendations for Board of Education

Michael Bunitsky

Retired Frederick County Public Schools educator with 40 years experience working as a Social Studies teacher and Curriculum Specialist. Michael also coordinated countywide student activities such as Frederick County Association of Student Councils & Model UN.

Ken Kerr

Ken is a life-long educator who started his 34-year career as a bus driver for FCPS. He then became a 4th grade teacher and is currently serving students as an English professor at Frederick Community College.

Joy Schaefer

Over 20 years experience connected with public education. Joy is a current elected member of the Board of Education. She currently holds or has held leadership positions in MD Association of Boards of Education, United Way, and the PTA Council.

Frederick County teachers work hard every day to provide the best education for our kids.

These candidates all have a proven record of working on behalf of children & students in Frederick County.

EARLY VOTING October 27-November 3 ★ 8 AM to 8 PM daily

Early Voting Centers Frederick Senior Center, Thurmont Library, Urbana Library, Middletown VFD Activities Building

ELECTION DAY November 8 ★ 7 AM to 8 PM

By Authority: MSEA Fund for Children and Public Education PAC, Bill Fisher, Treasurer.

Honest and Conservative Dentistry Where You Are Treated Like Family Comprehensive Exams & Diagnostic Services Dental Implants, Crowns, Bridges and Fillings Cleanings and Preventative Treatment Come Join Our Family of Patients

www.billhalldds.com 301-662-6247 | info@billhalldds.com | 1090 West Patrick Street, Suite B | Frederick, MD 21703

Have a project you’ve been meaning to get to?

Add us to your to do list.

Introductory rate of

1.99%* apr for the first 12 billing cycles a varIable rate from

4.00 – 4.50% apr wIthout dIrect debIt, or after the fIrst year wIth dIrect debIt

the Fcb Home equity Line of credit is ideal for homeowners who: • have qualified equity in their home • wish to complete home improvements, remodel a kitchen, go on a dream vacation, or consolidate several loans into one easy low monthly payment.

• desire a useful financial tool that can assist in creating possibilities. contact any bank center offIce at (301) 620-1400 to dIscuss how fcb = PossIbIlItIes To receive the discounted rate of 1.99%, a pre-authorized transfer (PAT) from a Frederick County Bank deposit account is required for the first year. A pre-authorized transfer (PAT) is not a condition of receiving a loan from FCB but is a condition of receiving the discounted rate of 1.99%. Without a PAT, the Interest rate will be based on the Wall Street Prime (WSP) index plus a margin of 0.50% to 1.00%. The margin and APR depends on your credit limit, credit score and participation in direct debit. As of March 1, 2016 the WSP Index was 3.50%. *After the first year, the annual percentage rate (APR) is variable and can change, which means your payments can change. The rate will not exceed 23% APR or fall below 4.00% APR. Closing costs are estimated at $2,270.65 for the maximum line amount of $100,000 (Closing costs include flood certification, recording fees, recordation taxes, appraisal, title exam, title insurance (if applicable), credit report and verification of employment). For accounts up to $100,000, closing costs are postponed for three years if the borrower elects to pay recordation tax on entire line amount at settlement; then waived if the account is still open. Property insurance is required. 10-year draw period requiring monthly Interest only payments based on the outstanding balance followed by a 15-year amortized payment schedule. Payments may vary due to variable Interest rate. Subject to minimum loan amount of $5,000 and credit approval. Other Home Equity Line of Credit plans are available. Consult a tax adviser for further information regarding the deductibility of interest and charges. Limited time offer.

NOw ACCEPTING Contributors

LOCAL FUNCTIONAL HANDMADE

Interested in becoming an online contributor for SassMagazine.com?

We’re currently looking for writers!

Send us an email with your story idea and samples of your writing to info@sassmagazine.com.

jewelry bath & body kids stationery home accessories 19 N. Market St., Frederick, MD 301.663.3632

shopthemuse.com MAGAZINE

/sassfrederick |

Facebook “shop the muse”

/sassfrederick

SASS WEEKLY

E-NEWSLETTER Sass’ weekly e-newsletter brings you a quick list of educational and inspiring articles on women, health, business, travel, fashion and much more!

Sign up today at sassmagazine.com /sassfrederick |

/sassfrederick

Magazine

woman to watch

WOMAN

By Laura Rennie

WATCH

Kline went on to have a succesful career with Jones Apparel Group. However, finding herself in her mid-thirties and married to a man she could no longer see a future with, she realized it was time for a change. In 1990, Kline divorced her husband and moved to Frederick. “You have the ability to change your life and make it what you want it to be,” she said. “One key to a good life is to have positive energy people as your core.”

After spending her early adulthood in a fastpaced work environment, Kline was ready to take on a less demanding job. She took an office clerk position with Structrual Systems in Thurmont and eventually worked her way up to vice president of the company. It was an adjustment for Kline to work in an extremely male-dominated business after her job with Jones Apparel Group, where she says she was lucky to be surrounded by “strong women.”

Since she didn’t have a strong role model in her mother, Kline instead surrounded herself with women she admired and aspired to be like. “When I first came to Frederick I was in awe of women such as Ann Burnside Love, Faye Cannon and Ramona Remsberg. Fortunately they were willing to give me great advice about dealing with the unique challenges of being a female leader in business.”

As a single woman without children, Kline found she had a lot of spare time on her hands. She joined the Rotary Club of Frederick, and from there

18 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

learned about other organizations she could join.

“I moved here not knowing one person. I had heard [Frederick] had a good sense of community, and that was something that was lacking in my life,” she said.

Kline remarried at 53 and retired from Structrual Systems at 58. Retirement has hardly slowed her down, though. She currently participates in ten local organizations, including Friends of Carrol Creek Urban Park (where she serves on the Board of Directors), the Rotary Club and FMH Development Council. In the past she has served with Meals on Wheels, Frederick Festival of the Arts, Interfaith Housing, and nearly three dozen other organizations. She also founded The Women’s Giving Circle of Frederick, an organization created to support and empower women in Frederick County who face difficult circumstances.

“I love what I do,” Kline said. “To me, there’s more joy in giving back than going on a trip. I’m not a martyr — I’m not at a soup kitchen every night cooking. I think you need to have a balance and make yourself the top priority — if you’re not in good emotional spirits, your [life] will suffer. Take care of yourself, your family and your community. When your community is good, your life is better.”

P h o t o g r a p h y: m a r y k at e mc k e n n a p h o t o g r a p h y

Many people who grow up in unstable homes end up repeating the same unhealthy patterns they witnessed as a child. Some are able to turn their difficult upbringing into motivation for change. Karlys Kline, whose mother was an alcoholic, belongs to the latter group. “I had to overcome significant obstacles prior to adulthood,” Kline said. “I somehow knew that I needed to be the opposite of what I grew up with. I recognized early on that I wanted to forge my own positive path in life.”

woman to watch WEB E C X E LUSIV an to ting Wom Now Accep s on n io at in Watch Nom zine.com sassmaga

Karlys Kline

FALL 16 19

woman to watch

5 What are three pieces of advice you could give to readers?… about juggling a busy career and life? Do it right away and stay organized. If you have challenges…prioritize them…if possible conquer one at a time and before you know it they’ll all be done!

…about following their passions/dreams?

Approach it with the idea that it will succeed.

…about being in your career? Surround yourself with the right people & speak up. Say what’s on your mind, and don’t be intimidated.

you should do your very best to embrace EVERY day because that’s the only time you will ever have that day. I don’t plan my life around weekends…EVERY day IS your life. I love that many people in the community consider me as their ‘go to resource’.

2 What is your typical day like? The best part of my day is ‘connecting the dots’ throughout Frederick for businesses, people looking for a new job, etc. I also spend a good bit of time brainstorming with nonprofit organizations and volunteering. I am currently on the board of directors for 3 businesses and 4 nonprofits.

3 What is the most important thing to you now? Number one would be loving the ‘best man I know’…my husband…Tom Lynch. After that would be nurturing the relationships with friends, giving back in various ways to the Frederick community whenever asked, and watching over downtown Frederick.

4 How do you reward yourself after a hard day’s/week’s/month’s work? I’d have to say that most everything I do all day long is rewarding. That being said…we need to be our very own top priority so I do acupuncture and meditation every week and often other nontraditional therapies such as Reiki and Cranial Sacral. I don’t consider them as ‘rewards’ but they are great for the mind, body & spirit.

20 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

6 What do you think has helped you the most with your success? Not letting things intimidate me and not being afraid that there may be some challenges along the way.

7 What has been the biggest challenge you have overcome to achieve your goals?

I don’t ever really have goals. I get up and try to make the best of every day

8 What is one sassy saying or quote that inspires you? Nike’s “Just Do It” says it all to me about experiencing life.

9 How do you stay current? Friends, the FNP, Rotary, Headline News & having Tom ‘summarize’ long articles.

10 What is your favorite question to ask others? To someone I’m meeting for the first time it would be “Tell me all about you?”, for a brainstorming meeting with an organization, “How can I help?” and to a friend, “What have you been doing lately that you love?”

11 How did you get to where you are today?

A positive attitude and being exceptionally organized are by far the most important. Treating others fairly, a willingness to speak up, agreeing to take on almost any task, and being honest even when it was tough were also beneficial.

P h o t o g r a p h y: m a r y k at e mc k e n n a p h o t o g r a p h y

1 Tell me a little about yourself. I believe that

woman to watch

"Take care of yourself, your family and your community.

When your community is good, your life is better.�

FALL 16 21

inspire/empower

By La Ch ura R riss en y M nie oo and re

22 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

P h o t o g r a p h y: m e g h a n j . s h u p e

Christine Ferguson came to the United States as an emancipated minor from Puerto Rico. She was fifteen years old.

“My journey has not always been an easy one. There were times that I did not know where my next meal would come from. There were times when I felt like I had nothing left to give,” she says.

Despite the challenges she faced, Christine remained resolute that with a positive attitude would come a bright future.

Christine, “worked extremely hard to remain positive and quickly learned that positivity brings on possibilities.”

inspire/empower Christine attributes her successes in life to a healthy dose of common sense, a determination to survive and a fiery passion to improve herself. Her outlook on life has been shaped by a set of core principles, “I trust my instincts, take advantage of all educational opportunities, do my research, fearlessly lead (or follow), work as hard as I can, and always maintain a positive attitude.”

Without a mentor to teach her life’s lessons, Christine instead learned through trial and error. “Those lessons have played an integral part in shaping the person I am today. I must admit that I’m content with the person who looks back at me in the mirror.” She never gave up, she persisted and worked her way through college to begin her career in the computer sciences industry. Christine now applies her can-do attitude and passion for life as a member of the Women’s Giving Circle, Tivoli Society, and the United Way. She will soon join the board of directors at the Heartley House.

Christine is a firm believer in the natural grace and power of women to survive any circumstances life throws at them. She is a mother and a survivor; a tribute to the strength of women to overcome any obstacles that stand in their way. She is a strong example of a positive role model and female leader for all of Frederick County. She is serving her sixth and final year as a member of the Frederick County Commission for Women; she is on the Marketing Committee and the Human Trafficking Committee. “The Commission is working to bring awareness to Human Trafficking through education. Our ultimate goal is to create a Human Trafficking Task Force in Frederick County.”

She serves the community and works hard to advocate and raise awareness regarding women’s issues.

“I feel empowered because I strive to be the best version of myself. I’m in charge of my own destiny. My only limitations are the ones that I impose on myself.” She works passionately to empower, support and celebrate the women of Frederick every single day.

Q: What keeps you inspired?

A: I’m inspired by strong passionate leaders who invoke change. Leaders who use their lessons learned to teach, inspire, encourage, motivate and empower others—individuals who are committed to the improvement of our community and the enrichment of our lives. There is nothing more beautiful, rewarding or inspiring than working alongside a confident, resilient, effective leader (particularly a women). I’m inspired by our community’s progress and enthusiastic for the potential that comes along with growth.

Q: What was the hardest part of your journey?

A: The hardest times were when I thought that my fate would culminate as a cliché, a 6pm news statistic. In order to survive, I constantly reminded myself that after each major storm

there is a rainbow. I dared to dream big, devised a plan for my future and put it into action. First on the agenda was to believe in myself, then to take advantage of all opportunities, learn as much as possible, surround myself with people I wanted to emulate, not let anyone classify or box me in, and finally, to be brave. Today, I now know that I’m not, nor will I ever be a statistic—at least not the one that some expected me to be.

Q: What surprised you?

A: Not much surprises me. I have been extremely impressed and inspired by the generosity of the people in our community.

I’m always collecting/fundraising for one cause or another; and I’m always surprised by the outpour of donations and the amount of community support. Frederick is a wonderful place where there is a true sense of community.

Q: What do you think was the most important decision you made along the way during your journey?

A: There have been many key decisions throughout my journey that have positively served me. 1. I had to believe that there was the possibility for a better life. I had to listen to my inner voice and trust my instincts. This helped me to develop survival skills—I had to be creative. When I first came to this country as an emancipated minor, my portion of the rent was $50 a month. Since I was too young to work, I would stand in front of the grocery store and help people load their groceries in the hopes of receiving a tip. My goal was to make $2 a day. I also babysat and took on every odd job FALL 16 23

inspire/empower I could find. By using that common sense approach, and by not being afraid of failure, I have always been able to provide for my necessities. 2. I knew education was the key to a better future. No matter how hard the situation became, my education was going to continue. After high school, I attended Montgomery College and applied for all the financial aid and scholarships available. I obtained my Associate's Degree in computer science in three and half years, while holding a job.

I selected my major after analyzing the employment demands, advancement opportunities in the market, and my aptitude. I later obtained my bachelor’s degree in business administration with a minor in acquisition and contract management.

3. I worked hard and saved harder. Once I obtained my first professional job, I completely submerged myself in the field through research and by asking a lot of questions. I soon became a leader (although I was not paid as one) in my profession. I was always willing to work overtime and do what was necessary to get the job done. I also started to save 50% of my income and within two years I had saved enough to become a proud homeowner at the age of 25.

To this day, no matter the situation, I still apply those same principles.

Q: What advice would you give someone who was going through something similar?

A: Believe in yourself. Some will try to derail you but stay focused. Do not be afraid to ask or receive help. Help is not a sign of weakness, it is simply a stepping stone to higher ground.

Don’t be afraid to take risks, calculated risks will lead you to places you never thought possible. Never stop reinventing yourself. If it is not working, don’t force it, have the courage to start over. Always remain open and positive. Know the difference between confidence and arrogance. As you reach your goals always remember to give back, or pay it forward. Lastly, remember that you are not alone.

Q: You inspire us — who inspires you?

A: I’m inspired by people who have passion; when they talk about their vision, you see a glimmer in their eyes, you hear a crackling in their voices and you feel their heart. Thank you to Josh Pederson and Rick Weldon.

I’m inspired by visionaries who lead with grace. People who are not afraid to tackle the impossible. People who provide solutions rather than criticisms. Thank you to Karlys Kline (see page 18), Elizabeth Chung, and Jan Gardner.

I’m inspired by people who truly want to make a difference, Q: Looking back now, is there anything who give so much of themselves, and expect nothing in reyou'd do differently? turn. The soldiers, always in the forefront ready to get the task A: I live life with no regrets. Now this is not to say that I haven't done. Thank you to Kristopher Fair, MaryLynn Burtaine Hide, made mistakes. I just choose to categorize my missteps as life and Angela Spencer. lessons. I say, “there is no use in crying over spilled milk, howI’m inspired by people who give every day, through donaever, take note of the placement of the milk in order to avoid a tions and volunteerism, and who are committed to making reoccurrence of the past.”

Frederick a better place for us all. They give and give—and always with a smile. This covers most of Frederick. These people are the reason I SO LOVE FREDERICK… thank you, you inspire me each and every day.

Q: What's next for you?

Q: What do you think gives you your sass?

A: I believe that my attitude gives me sass. I deliberately maintain a positive attitude, always smile and believe in mankind.

24 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

P h o t o g r a p h y: m e g h a n j . s h u p e

A: I will continue to volunteer with many Frederick organizations, and will be serving on the Heartly House Board of Directors. Additionally, I will be a working with the United Way as Budget Coach for the Prosperity Center’s savings account program. The program enables individuals to save for the purpose of home ownership or education.

meghanjshupe.com 240.481.7159 You were born to be the woman you are today!

Hair and makeup by a local professional is included in every FAB You photo session along with props and accessories.

What Exactly Is “Must Love Shoes”?

It began as a book series and has grown to include international and domestic retreats, opportunities for growth and self-development, a chance to make a difference through our charity events and much, much more! It’s about women empowerment, love and life, sharing, friendship and family.

There’s no exclusive clique here. You’re welcome because you’re a woman… you’re one of us!

Join the Must Love Shoes community by signing up for our newsletter at mustloveshoes.com You can also visit our Facebook page for news, events and other fun stuff

feature

Women at the

Of Higher Education

By Chrissy Moore

Elizabeth Burmaster began her working career as a volunteer for Easter Seals.

She organized a carnival in her backyard off West 14th Street to raise funds for the organization’s Frederick chapter. The day was packed with a marionette show, a singing contest, children’s games and refreshing lemonade. She made $1.98, she was 10 years old. Andrea Chapdelaine began working for her father’s retail business when she was 12 and held her position through high school and college. She did whatever needed to be done—cleaning, yard work, furniture delivery, and as she grew older, moved into sales and bookkeeping. Her sister now owns the 65-year old family business, something that fills Chapdelaine with pride.

Two very relatable beginnings for two women whose careers have reached the pinnacle of higher education. President Elizabeth Burmaster became the 10th president of Frederick Community College (FCC) in 2014. A graduate of Thomas Johnson High School, she currently holds two honorary doctoral degrees from Edgewood College and Beloit College in Wisconsin, and multiple degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. President Andrea Chapdelaine was inaugurated in 2015 as the 11th president of Hood College. She obtained a doctorate and master’s degree from the University of Connecticut and an undergraduate degree from the University of New Hampshire. These two women have spent their careers as educators, mentors and lifelong learners, continually pushing themselves and broadening their careers.

26 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

P h o t o g r a p h y: M a r y K at e M cK e n n a P h o t o g r a p h y

Women comprise just over 26% of college presidents. With a very slow growth rate, women leaders have to work hard to outshine their competition. Frederick is lucky to have two inspiring and welcoming female leaders within its community.

feature

Elizabeth Burmaster, President Frederick Community College

FALL 16 27

feature “I increasingly was sought out to take on various administrative roles. These provided opportunities to learn new things and to serve students in different ways and I found myself increasingly drawn to college administration.�

28 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

P h o t o g r a p h y: M a r y K at e M cK e n n a P h o t o g r a p h y

Andrea E. Chapdelaine, President Hood College

feature In 1986 the American Council on Education held its first college president study, finding that the majority of college presidents were white males in their 50s. They were married with children and held doctoral degrees. In 1986 only 10% of college presidents were women. Fast forward 30 years and women comprise just over 26% of college presidents. With a very slow growth rate, women leaders have to work hard to outshine their competition. Frederick is lucky to have two inspiring and welcoming female leaders within its community.

Chapdelaine understands the need to work hard in a competitive male dominated field, “you have to be willing to outwork everyone else and to take on more responsibilities to expand your skill set. In other words make sure you are an asset to the institution.” She began taking on more responsibility during her career as a faculty member at an Indiana college. “I increasingly was sought out to take on various administrative roles. These provided opportunities to learn new things and to serve students in different ways and I found myself increasingly drawn to college administration.” After becoming provost at Albright College she set her sights on a presidency. Chapdelaine urges any woman working towards a promotion “to “lean in” and ask for experiences and opportunities important to the next step in your career as they will not always be offered to you.”

A public school teacher, turned principal who later ran for and became the elected Wisconsin State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Burmaster attributes much of her success to the skills she learned while teaching. “The organizational skills I developed during those ten years were a great fit for the administrative positions that followed,” she said. Each stop along her career allowed her to learn more and hone the skills necessary for advancement. She later set her sights on a presidency while serving on the state community/technical college board. “I was fascinated by the critical role community colleges were playing in providing access to quality public higher education and workforce development for learners of all ages.” A position opened up at Nicolet College and she reached her goal.

Regardless of your career field, both presidents stress the importance of a positive mentor. Chapdelaine feels it critical for women to find “successful mentors who can not only guide you but also help open doors,” and Burmaster adds, “Don’t imitate your mentor. Find your true leadership style and authenticity. If who you are and what you can contribute is of value, people will recognize your leadership.”

Before making her decision, Chapdelaine, “did a lot of research, networked with female college presidents, and participated in several leadership development programs.” She also only applied to job opportunities that would be a good

fit for her and her family. Accepting the presidency at Hood College marked Chapdelaine’s sixth career relocation. “Every move has brought new learning experiences, new friends, and enabled me to grow both professionally and personally.”

For those women considering a relocation to advance their careers, Chapdelaine says “go for it.” With the help of technology, she is able to maintain close ties to friends and family who aren’t nearby.

Both presidents agree that the best part of their job is working with students. President Chapdelaine finds inspiration in her students as “so many of them have overcome significant challenges in order to achieve a college education. Their enthusiasm and optimism inspire me to do my very best to provide them a rewarding and positive college experience.”

President Burmaster admits that the two most rewarding and exciting aspects of her position are “working to provide scholarships for students and presenting diplomas to students at Commencement.” Chapdelaine says, “one of the privileges of this position is to meet people who generously share their time, talent and treasure to the benefit of our students.” While both women have shattered the glass ceiling of higher education, it is clear that they both maintain close and welcoming ties to their students, faculty and staff.

Throughout their careers, Chapdelaine and Burmaster found endless support and inspiration in their families.

President Burmaster has been married to her husband for 36 years, they have three grown children and four grandchildren. “Everything we have accomplished in our personal and professional lives is because we did it together as a

FALL 16 29

feature

team.” She says “my proudest accomplishment to date is not really an accomplishment, but rather a blessing, the love I feel and relationship of joy I have with my husband, children, and grandchildren.”

President Chapdelaine feels very fortunate to have a husband who became the primary caregiver for their two sons.

When she became the president of Hood College, she moved to Frederick with her youngest son, while her husband stayed in their former home to allow their oldest son to finish his senior year of high school. She candidly admits, “I became a new president and a “single” mom all at once. I think my son took care of me as much as I took care of him!” The importance of family is clear, “I work hard but I take vacations and try to be present for my family when we are together. I strongly believe that “family comes first” and I think it is important to model that for your employees.”

Chapdelaine quoted Mark Twain who said a college president “stands at the summit of human usefulness.” She confesses, “Twain was prone to hyperbole but I consider myself very fortunate to have been entrusted with this great privilege 30 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

and responsibility.” Becoming the president of Hood College has been her proudest career accomplishment to date.

Burmaster revisited her Frederick roots after decades of living and working in the Midwest. Returning to Frederick has been a fun experience for her. “The best part is how all that I loved about growing up in Frederick is preserved and all that wasn’t the greatest has been or is being transformed. There is no place like home.” Chapdelaine agrees, “I can honestly say that this has been the best community that I have moved to thus far. I absolutely love Frederick!”

President Elizabeth Burmaster and President Andrea Chapdelaine are superb examples of working women who have overcome challenges, embraced new experiences and remained driven to reach the heights of academia. They did it all while remaining down to earth, family oriented and kind. They are the ultimate career women, yet by sharing their experiences and knowledge they remain just as relatable as the two young girls who began their “careers” as a carnival planner and family business apprentice all those years ago.

P h o t o g r a p h y: M a r y K at e M cK e n n a P h o t o g r a p h y

“The best part is how all that I loved about growing up in Frederick is preserved and all that wasn’t the greatest has been or is being transformed. There is no place like home.”

T he

GRADUATE SCHOOL

at Hood College

A Tradition of Excellence in Higher Education In addition to 17 programs leading to master’s degrees and 11 post-baccalaureate certificates and certifications, The Graduate School at Hood College now offers doctorates in organizational leadership and business administration.

• Academic excellence plus practical application

• Top-tier faculty with real-world experience

• Small classes, personal attention

• Evening classes for working professionals

Find Out More: Visit www.hood.edu/graduate Email gofurther@hood.edu 401 Rosemont Ave., Frederick, MD 21701

Call 301-696-3600

Go further. In your life. In your career. In your community.

feature

Lauren Kashan, Sharptooth

32 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

P h o t o g r a p h y: a n d r e w m u r d o c k / n at u r a l a r t i s t r y

By Lindsay Smith Rogers

feature

WHO

Anna Meadors still has the four dollars she received for her first gig with a German polka band when she was a ten-year-old reluctant saxophonist.

“My first practice session was playing three notes and then putting it away… [my mom] really had to push me to keep practicing but eventually it stuck.”

Over fifteen years later music is now a full-time calling for Meadors. She plays venues up and down the east coast with the “punk-jazz/fuzz-rock” trio Joy on Fire, which is about to record its third album, and in the fall she starts as a music composition fellow and PhD candidate at Princeton. It’s safe to say that music has finally “stuck” for her.

FALL 16 33

34 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

P h o t o g r a p h y: a n d r e w m u r d o c k / n at u r a l a r t i s t r y

feature

Ashli Cheshire, Cheshi

feature

Professional musicians like Meadors tend to be passionate people. For some, music pays the bills while others fit in gigs and practices around full-time jobs. Regardless, they’re always seeking opportunities to perform, to grow as artists, and to get their work out there.

Adrienne Smith, an assistant preschool teacher in Frederick, is the lead voice of blues/soul pop group The Dirty Middle. Her first gig was at the former Mudd Puddle (now Gravel and Grind) in Frederick as a nerve-wracked solo performer, but now she’s backed by a band that includes her husband, Matt, on bass.

Smith says the band first came together when guitarist “Ponyboy Mike” approached her after an open mic saying he wanted to work with a blues singer.

The group now practices once a week, sometimes for three or four hours at a time, and plays regularly around Frederick where the bar scene offers ample opportunities for gigs. They’re about to play their first festival and hope to record an album which will help them market the group beyond Frederick. Music, for them, is a full-time job outside of their full-time jobs.

Cassidy Raye Ponton, who performs as CassiRaye, is a barista, yoga teacher, and artist in Shep-

herdstown, WV. Her influences are diverse—Marilyn Manson, Jill Scott, and Fiona Apple—and her music is haunting and melodic. “I would describe my sound as a warm hug,” she says. “It resonates on a soul level.”

CassiRaye is also involved with The Sanctuaries, an arts collective in DC for “creative and soulful people” collaborating on projects promoting social change.

Historically, female musicians were welcomed for their talent in performing but until recently weren’t widely credited with writing the music or leading the band. While they’ve made headway as composers and even managers, the industry is still male-dominated. In 2015 on Billboard’s Top 100 Artists of the Year only 26 of the performers listed were female. This inequality is also evident at a local level where solo and group performers are almost entirely male.

The opportunities for women seem to be growing, however. Lauren Kashan is a herpetologist (reptile and amphibian biologist) and the lead “screamer” of Sharptooth, a melodic hardcore band in the almost exclusively-male punk genre. Sharptooth recruited Kashan in 2014 as a songwriter and lead vocalist, and the band is about to record their first full-length album. With Sharptooth, Kashan found great oppor-

FALL 16 35

36 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

P h o t o g r a p h y: a n d r e w m u r d o c k / n at u r a l a r t i s t r y

feature

Adrienne Smith, The Dirty Middle

feature

tunity in the male-dominated scene. “Since there are women at [these] shows,” Kashan says, “and since virtually no bands are talking about the things women want to hear about, this is a huge opportunity for us!

I write songs about the issues that women deal with on a regular basis. I get to write the songs that I’ve been wanting to hear all these years.”

“Women are expected to look and act in a certain way in all aspects of life,” Adrienne Smith agrees. “My advice to any woman who wants to pursue music is to simply go for it. Whatever your sound is, whatever your age, whatever you look like, you should play the music that you feel in your heart. Be loud. Be crass. Be too thin, too fat, whatever.

Your talent will shine through what is socially correct.”

Anna Meadors notes that part of success is finding the people you love working with. “Collaboration is one of the most important parts of creating music and you have to find people you enjoy [working with] and who push you to always get better.”

Ashli Cheshire, Frederick-based guitarist and songwriter for the group Cheshi, credits the male musicians in her band with being incredibly support-

ive of her creative vision. “I think that the biggest opportunity is for female empowerment, to uplift and celebrate our unique voices. I know not every woman in the industry is as lucky [as I am].” Cheshi, which is currently recording its first EP, has a sound that’s powerful, melodic, and edgy—it’s clear that their collaboration works.

CassiRaye encourages women to support one another within the industry as well. “Instead of thinking in terms of competition and comparison, think in terms of collaboration and commitment. Uplift beginner musicians and connect with other performers.”

Supporting new artists is a way to ensure that the community continues to grow. Often one of the greatest challenges for young musicians, according to Ashli Cheshire, is finding gigs since most venues tend to be bars that require performers to be over 21. Members of the music community in Frederick are aware of this gap and seeking to remedy it with new performance spaces in the works as another way to support the growing local scene.

All of these women are in various stages of their music careers but all are talented and committed

FALL 16 37

feature Cassidy Raye Ponton, CassiRaye

WEB EXCLUSIVE

ut the Check o nes video S The ce Behind- agazine.com s sas m

Lindsay Smith Rogers Lindsay Smith Rogers is a freelance writer and Communications professional in Baltimore City. She loves running, reading, cooking, and traveling. She spent the last two years living in the Middle East but is happy to be back in Charm City with her husband.

Follow their adventures at www.thenewglitterati.com.

38 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

P h o t o g r a p h y: a n d r e w m u r d o c k / n at u r a l a r t i s t r y

performers, passionate about what they do.

“Sometimes pursuing a music career feels a lot like making your own path in a wild forest,” says CassiRaye. But though the path may be lost from time to time, she says “what you have to offer will come through your music. Be the sound you wish to hear in the world!”

Joy on Fire, CassiRaye, The Dirty Middle, and Cheshi will all be performing at the Goddess Jam Music Festival on September 9 in Frederick.

Advertising • Headshots • portraits • weddings

www.natural-artistry.com info@natural-artistry.com

CARNIVAL • FAIR FOOD EXHIBITS • CONCERTS AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION

Advanced Discount Carnival Tickets www.TheGreatFrederickFair.com

FARM ANIMALS MOTORSPORTS

Save the Date: Sept. 15-23, 2017 797 E. Patrick St. • P.O. Box 604 • Frederick, MD 21705-0604 p 301.663.5895 • f 301.663.9719 • www.thegreatfrederickfair.com

fashion feature

WORK IT

By Brittany Carpenter

It’s time to start rethinking our basic workwear, and about what message we are trying to share with the world. That message must be consistent not only in our actions, but also our wardrobes. Enter the new world of POWER DRESSING! Show your strength and creativity through pieces with interesting prints, oversized ruffles and architectural cuts. Don’t be afraid to stand out and have others take notice of your workplace skills AND your sharp dressing!

40 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

P h o t o g r a p h y: e m i ly g u d e p h o t o g r a p h y

Let’s face it, dressing for work has become pretty mundane. The typical pant/blouse combo can only be fresh for so long. Dressing to fit a specific corporate culture is often confusing and dress code stress is a real struggle. As women, we face much more grief regarding our clothing choices than men. We are tasked daily with finding that delicate balance between looking professional and feeling strong, while not being especially sexy or overly frumpy.

fashion feature

T WEB

EXCLUSIVE

ut the Check o nes video S The ce Behind- agazine.com s sas m

Special Thanks! Special thanks to Chic to Chic Boutique for styling and fitting our models from head to toe! chictochic.com FALL 16 41

fashion feature

The perfect fitting dress is a MUST in every woman’s wardrobe! This style gets extra credit for the fun (but neutral) print and accentuated shoulders.

42 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

P h o t o g r a p h y: e m i ly g u d e p h o t o g r a p h y

Courtney:

fashion feature

Jamie:

HELLO COLOR! Red screams strength and confidence! Never be afraid to stand out in any color that looks amazing on you.

FALL 16 43

fashion feature

Caprice:

44 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

P h o t o g r a p h y: e m i ly g u d e p h o t o g r a p h y

Mixing materials like knits and leather can help break up the basic skirt/blouse/jacket combo.

Don’t be afraid of bold color in an office environment! Just be sure to keep the rest of the outfit neutral to balance the look.

Caprice: Make a big statement at your next meeting with oversized ruffles. While a very feminine concept, the voluminous style screams confidence and creativity.

fashion feature

Courtney: Play with shape! This luxe cowl neck sweater pairs perfectly with these form fitting slacks. Pair it with a matching pair of shoes to make your legs look a million miles long!

Jamie: Mix fun prints with shapes that fit you perfectly to show your versatility. Try mixing different staple pieces in your wardrobe to give your outfit a whole new feeling. Stick to the same color palette to keep from going overboard!

FALL 16 45

brow threading green beauty stuff we love 118 E Patrick St. Frederick, MD 21701 240.578.4192 — Book Online —

mavenbeautybar.com

Distinctive Style, Fabulous Gifts!

Stack-up Plan Mix bracelets & watches for a unique look.

17 N. Market St., Frederick MD 301.668.8075 M–Th 10:30-6 | F–Sat 10:30-9 Sun 12-5 www.mollysmeanderings.com

meanderings

fashion spotlight

TEONYA FOWLER Occupation: Medical Office Assistant

Your best style advice: Step out of the box. Embrace your originality. Take risks because there are no rules when it comes to fashion.

Favorite brand/designer: Tory Burch/Balmain

Describe your style in just a few words: P h o t o g r a p h y: j e n t y l e r

Chic and Edgy.

WEB E C X E LUSIV n ting Fashio Now Accep s on n io at in Nom Spotlight azine.com sassmag

FALL 16 47

beauty

Breaking

“ Let’s debunk the biggest beauty myths!”

Code Beauty

By Rebecca Carrera

Myth: Pores can be opened and closed.

Answer: LIES! This is absolutely untrue! There is no way to open and close a pore, but steam can be used to soften pores making them easier to clean. This can be done at home with a small store bought facial sauna or by your favorite esthetician. Your esthetician can also do extractions of pesky pores, but this is not something you should try on your own at home. A failed attempt can lead to blemishes and even scarring. You’re better off steaming and then using a purifying clay mask at home. Leave the poking and prodding to the trained professionals.

Myth: Shaving makes hair grow back thicker.

Answer: LIES! Also, untrue! Shaving hair anywhere on your body is not going to make it grow back thicker. It does however cut the hair flat and blunt, which creates that stubbly feel. A hair that is pulled from the root grows back with a tapered end, which makes it look thinner and feel softer. If you prefer softer feeling regrowth, opt for waxing or threading. Both remove hair from the root.

Myth: Plucking gray hairs will result in more growing back.

Myth: Sleeping on your back or on a satin

pillowcase will cause fewer wrinkles.

Answer: OK. There could be a bit of truth to this one, depending on how you look at it. As we age the elasticity in our skin, called collagen, starts to breakdown. If you are constantly tugging, pulling or smashing your face into a pillowcase you could be promoting the breakdown of collagen. As humans we spend 1/3 of our lives in bed, so we’re talking long term, 20, 30, 40 years of tugging and pulling. The best way to keep collagen from breaking down is to simply take good care of your skin. A regime of cleansing and moisturizing morning and night, and applying your sunscreen when outside for prolonged amounts of time is a great start!

48 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

Rebecca Carrera Wife, mother, brow guru, green beauty obsessed, clean eater, design lover, and the owner of Maven Beauty Bar in downtown Frederick, Maryland. www.mavenbeautybar.com

P h o t o g r a p h y: n e e d p h o t o g r a p h e r

P h o t o g r a p h y: b i g s t o c k

Answer: LIES! First of all, you cannot make new hair follicles! With that said, this myth is just that, a myth. Plucking one doesn’t make ten grow back. You have a certain number of hair follicles and that’s all you get. It's impossible to create more, specifically gray follicles. When you pluck a gray hair the new growth typically grows back coarse and wiry, so it’s definitely more noticeable. It’s either time to see your colorist, or time to embrace that gray!

Don’t Fight Grays.

Annihilate Them. Naturally.

Our color appointments are an artful blend of the dramatic-yet-natural COLOR.ME and our talented stylists working together to pick the most flattering and confidence-inducing shades that make you look [and feel] your best.

Green Circle Salons Certified Partner

2016 FCSC Sustainability Award Winner

Look Good . Go Natural .

CALL OR BOOK ONLINE TODAY

New Clients: Mention this ad for a 15% discount on your first visit. Existing Clients: Mention this ad for a free gift at your next visit.

246 east sixth street | frederick, md | 301.662.1766 | www.naturalfusionhairstudio.com

UPHOLSTERY SALE

40% OFF 9/15 - 10/15

AMERICAN LEATHER COMFORT No bars, no springs, and noSLEEPER sagging.

SALE: 8/26 - 9/27 You’ll want to show all your friends.

The Comfort Sleeper® by American Leather

102 E PATRICK ST DOWNTOWN FREDERICK

www.DreamHouseStyle.com 301.360.0680

travel

Grab Your Girls & Go A Visit to

Downtown

Annapolis

Picture it: A brisk Autumn day, strolling down a tree-lined, brick walkway through our historic state's capital. Grab your camera and your nearest friend and head to downtown Naptown!

50 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

P h o t o g r aPphhoy:t ongereadpphhy:o tboogb rpaeptheerrs o n / c o u r t e s y a n n a p o l i s t o u r i s m

By Jennifer Neidenbach

The small, historic city of Annapolis has the proud honor of being the capital of Maryland, and is just a short 70 minute drive from Frederick. Here you will find such sites as the Naval Academy, the State House, St. John’s College, and City Dock. Downtown Annapolis fits every style— whether you’re looking to relax for the day, wanting to brush-up on Maryland government or interested in a little retail therapy.

First things first, where should you start? The quaint Visitor’s Center located at 26 West Street, is open daily from 9-5pm. Positioned near the the center is Gott’s Court parking garage (behind the visitor’s center) and Whitmore parking garage (across the street), both for a small fee. From here, you can take a stroll around State Circle and Church Circle, or walk the short distance to City Dock.

If you opt out of the welcome center or want to park closer to the water, you’re in luck. Annapolis has tons of street parking, especially around the City Dock. Many of the garages have discounted parking after 4pm or are free on the weekends.

So, now that you’re parked and ready to take the town by storm, what should you do? Here are a few ideas to get you started, no matter what kind of adventure you and your gals are craving there is something for everyone.

travel

Outdoorsy Girls Love to walk? Then downtown is for you! Historic Annapolis was built around two main circles (State Circle and Church Circle). The walk is tree-lined and beautiful! Take a walk around both circles, checking out the historic architecture, or venture over to the Naval Academy or St. John’s College for a longer walk.

Want more of an outdoor adventure? Check out City Dock and the different boating options. Take an Annapolis Harbor tour while sipping on your favorite beverage or check out the rentals for paddleboarding and kayaking. For more information on the types of water travel available, stop by the Harbor Masters building near the City Dock. Gotta go?!? Public bathrooms are also found here.

For a great adventure, I recommend Watermark Tours.

These cruises range from 40 minutes to 3 hours long. My favorite is definitely a trip on the Harbor Queen, which includes a narrated tour of the Annapolis Harbor and the Naval Academy, which is great for your first or 1,000th visit.

Historic Girls For this friend, what would make for a better day trip than heading to our historic capital? Strolling up and down the narrow streets transports you back in time to 18th and 19th century America. Historic Annapolis is also home to the Hammond Harwood House, the William Paca House & Gardens, and the Chase-Lloyd House, which allows you to examine the life of rich and famous Marylanders before the RevoluFALL 16 51

travel

tionary War. Meander over to St. John’s College and walk the campus or check out historic walking tours available through the welcome center. Make sure to stop by the State House to learn about the important role our state has played in American history. Annapolis was once the capital of the whole country, just sayin!

My favorite historic spot is the Naval Academy. Fall makes the perfect time for a visit, as the plebes (freshmen) and cadets (upperclassmen) return for the start of the school year.

There is no public parking at the Naval Academy, but USNA Gate 1 is located about one block from City Dock.

For this visit, everyone 18 and older must have a valid ID. If you have never walked the grounds of the Naval Academy, you MUST! It is one of those things you need to do at least once in your life, as it gives you a perfect view of

As the night progresses, almost every restaurant around City Dock becomes a hopping bar with live music or a nightclub with a DJ. the Severn River. There are public walking tours available most days from the Naval Academy’s Armel-Leftwich Visitor Center or feel free to give yourself a tour! If you happen to be visiting during the week, be sure to check out the noon formation on the Yard in front of Bancroft Hall.

52 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

Shopping Girls If your girls tend to favor shopping, then downtown Annapolis is the place for you! There are many shops located in downtown—ranging from high end designer boutiques, to tourist paraphernalia and antiques. Check out the Downtown Annapolis website, for a HUGE list of shops and their locations.

Need a one-of-a-kind hillarious gag gift for a friend? Stop

by A.L. Goodies General Store. This store sells everything from t-shirts to a crab-shaped cookie cutter. There is a wide assortment of Maryland and Naval Academy gear to choose from as well. The best part of the store is the collection of unique and hilarious novelty items, which will leave your group rolling on the floor!

Foodie Girls Did someone say seafood?! It’s a Maryland MUST! Whether you are looking for crabs, pub fare, Chinese food, sushi, Italian, steaks, frozen yogurt, or another food genre, you've come to the right place.

Want the real Annapolis experience? Check out my favorite restaurant, Pusser’s Caribbean Grille, for its delicious food and ambience. Pusser’s offers waterfront eating, right on Ego Alley, overlooking City Dock. Sit back with a drink and watch the boats and passers by. The restaurant offers indoor and patio seating. The patio seating fills up fast, so plan to grab your table early, or book your reservation in advance, especially on the weekends. Make sure to start with a Pusser’s Painkiller or an Orange Crush—YUM!

travel

Jennifer Neidenbach Jennifer "Jen, Jenny, J-Dawg, etc." Neidenbach is an educator, mother, and wife from the Eastern Shore and a transplant to Anne Arundel County.

When she is not working in the wonderful world of assessments, she enjoys spending tIme with family, long baths, and crushing candy. Follow her on Twitter @BeltwayStalker.

Boozy Girls Bars, bars, bars. Annapolis has many different adult beverage and dancing options to fit everyone’s taste and style.

Want to sit along the water? Check. Want to find a place to go dancing? Check. Want to listen to live music? Check. As the night progresses, almost every restaurant around City Dock becomes a hopping bar with live music or a nightclub with a DJ. Be mindful of the cover charges or start early and avoid them altogether! There are also a few venues (including Ram’s Head Tavern) that hold different concerts throughout the year, but you will need to purchase many of these tickets ahead of time.

My favorite bar to start the night is Armadillo’s Bar and Grill. This “dive” bar is located down the block from City Dock, in the heart of downtown. There is a bar downstairs and a restaurant upstairs. The restaurant turns into a dance club with either a DJ or live music after 10pm on weekends.

My favorite part of Armadillo’s is the downstairs bar. They serve buy one, get one FREE drinks until 10pm. YUP, that’s right, you heard it correctly. Try to hit this place early to grab a seat and avoid the cover charge. Maybe the BOGO drinks are all you need to cap off a fun day in Naptown or maybe you’ll head over to Pusser’s for their late night dance party.

As you can tell, Downtown Annapolis has many different options to try. When talking with your girlfriends, don’t forget to mix and match different types to get the perfect trip!

Whether this is your first visit or a return trip, remember to discover something new about our state’s capital.

For a full list of retail shops, restaurants bars, visit www.downtownannapolis.com or download the app—Annapolis Now—to access all things Annapolis at the touch of a button!

Watermark Tours 1 Dock St., Annapolis, MD 21401 Ph: (410) 268-7601 cruisesonthebay.com United States Naval Academy 52 King George St., USNA Gate 1, Annapolis, MD 21402 Ph: (410) 293-8687 www.usna.edu/visit A.L. Goodies General Store.

112 Main St., Annapolis, MD 21401 Ph: (410) 269-0071 www.algoodies.com Pusser’s Caribbean Grille 80 Compromise St. Annapolis, MD 21401 Ph: (410) 626-0004 pussersusa.com Armadillo’s Bar and Grill 132 Dock St., Annapolis, MD 21401 Ph: (410) 280-0028 FALL 16 53

career

By Melanie Spring

We all have that girlfriend who absolutely knows who she is. My friend Heather is this woman for me. She stands unapologetically on her own two feet. She doesn’t care what other people think, yet cares deeply about other people. She knows exactly what she wants and gets it. Every time I see her, she has a perfect manicure, she’s dressed impeccably, and she makes me wish I took better care of myself. She has swagger AND style.

54 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

1. TELL YOURSELF NICE THINGS Most of us don’t say nice things when we look in the mirror. But there’s a way to change that. Grab some sticky notes. Write down one incredible thought about yourself on each sticky note. Pretend you’re someone on the outside talking to you about how amazing you are.

Write down the things your friends, significant other, and random strangers say about you. Even if you don’t fully believe them, if they’re positive, write them down. One thought per sticky. Now put them on your mirror, the one in the bathroom or your full length mirror, wherever you look at yourself and make faces. Read them every time you face yourself. Add to them as often as you think of something else. In case you can’t think of any right away, here’s one to get you started: You are enough.

2. UNDERSTAND YOUR PURPOSE Your Awesome is the purpose you were born with. That thing you were put here to do, that only you can do. The thing that

P h o t o g r a p h y: n e e d p h o t o g r a p h e r

Heather wears her Awesome and shakes it all over the place. She knows her purpose and her personal brand and shows up in it every day. She inspires me to want to be a better version of myself. To take it up a notch. She’s a little intimidating.

Wait a minute! Pause. While I admire Heather’s Awesome, I can’t ignore the fact that I have Awesome too, mine just looks different. And ya know what, that Awesome also resides in you!

Inside of you is a superpower, a purpose—the thing you were put here to do for the world. Inside of you is something no one else can do, it solely belongs to you— it’s your Awesome. So don’t waste time pining for “her” perfect life, in reality her life is perfect for her and yours is perfect for you. Your Awesome is awesome… awesome, right?!

I know what you’re thinking. "How do I find MY Awesome?” Well, these three steps will have you sprinkling Awesome all over the place!

career

FALL 16 55

CAREER brings you unexplainable joy. It makes your heart jump out of your chest and has you saying "How do I do that again?!"

In order to find your purpose, look at the intersection of what you love to do, what you’re great at doing, what you can make money doing, and what the world needs from you. (See the graphic below.) Take some time and fill in everything you can think of for each category. Then look at the items that correlate.

Keep adding to the list as you think of things. Put it down and come back to it later.

When you think you’ve got it, ask yourself why this is your Awesome. Then ask four more times. If you feel like it really sticks, boom! If not, don’t sweat it. Just keep digging.

represent your personal brand? Your personal brand is the package that is you; from your innate core values and how you see the world, to the way you wear your hair or dress yourself, and Melanie and Rebecca what others feel every wearing their awesome! time they see you. Maybe 3. MATCH THE OUTSIDE TO THE INSIDE only a little needs to be changed or Now that you know what your Awesome is, it’s time to match maybe a lot. That’s up to you. But if you want others to wonder the outside to the inside. Have you watched a speaker walk up if you’re born with it (no no, don’t sing the jingle), you’ve got to to stage and doubted they would be good until they opened make sure you show up on purpose. their mouth? Well, you don’t have to wear nice clothes and get When we think about that girlfriend who shows up fully in mani/pedis every weekend but you DO need to make sure you her purpose, we find that our jealousy or wide-eyed wonder is know how to show up in every situation. because we’re searching for the same thing inside ourselves.

Does how you show up on the outside match your purpose? She’s our friend because she sees something in us we may not Take a look in the mirror. Does what you see reflect who you re- see. I invite you to find your purpose, stand in your personal ally are on the inside? What needs to change in order to better brand, and live the life you were meant to live.

Melanie Spring Brand building + hardcore strategy x positivity = Melanie Spring. Melanie is the Chief Inspiration Officer at Sisarina, a DC-based brand strategy agency. She's an entrepreneur, international speaker, and approachable badass spreading the gospel of rocking your brand. www.melaniespring.com

Oh looky there! I see it!

Your Awesome is showing!!!

56

Need a Professional

Pick-Me-Up? Bring Melanie Spring to your next Development Day & inspire your team to rock your brand for you.

Get it on the books: sisarina.com/development-day

NOw ACCEPTING

nominations

Business Spotlight Fashion Spotlight

Inspire/Empower Woman to Watch

If you feel that you know of a business or woman who would be a candidate for any of these spotlights, please let us know by completing the nomination form at sassmagazine.com.

Discover

WHAT THORPEWOOD IS...

• A great place to retreat! Just ask our friends at Flying Dog Brewery!!

• Still so close, but you feel so far!

• Beautiful timber frame lodge • 155 pristine acres on Catoctin Mountain to explore • Horse Program for leadership training • 2 Exclusive caterers…and more!!

12805A Mink Farm Rd.,Thurmont, MD | 301-271-2823

Magazine

/sassfrederick |

/sassfrederick

www.mountainmemoriestw.com

Being Bold A Trip to Your Medical Provider’s Office

By Dawn R. Mossburg, CRNP

As a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner, I’ve seen just about every type of female patient.

Women vary in their comfort level when it comes to talking about sensitive topics, even with a medical professional. Patients can often sense when a nurse or doctor is busy, and that feeling of being rushed through an exam may cause them to avoid issues they’d like to discuss.

Women have often told me they don’t want to “bother” anyone. Well, I say bother away—your right as a patient is to make sure your medical professional takes their time to address any questions, fears, concerns or celebrations you may have about your health and well-being.

When I see obstetrical and gynecological patients; my method with new or established clients is to be calm, approachable and take my time. I sit down and face them so that each patient has my undivided attention. I will start the appointment with general questions about health history and possible changes since their last visit. In gynecology the topics can be sensitive in nature such as: menstrual cycles, breast concerns, sexual concerns and menopausal changes.

GULP! This is where some clients struggle, turn red faced or avoid asking questions altogether.

Some of the questions women should ask their providers are listed below along with probable answers from medical professionals. Remember, this list is merely a guide and should not be used as a replacement for an annual check up.

Going to the doctor’s may be uncomfortable, but it is necessary to maintain your health and sass!

58 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

1. How is my weight?

Oh boy. Here we go! A dreaded question for most women.

Patients overall are apprehensive and sensitive to the topic of weight, no matter their size. As a provider the best way to approach the topic would be to explain that increased weight can be a factor in some chronic illnesses.

If there is noticeable weight gain, I will delve deeper into a possible cause or discuss options to maintain a healthy weight.

• Are you on any special diet? What types of foods choices are you making?

• How do you keep your body moving? What kind of exercises do you do?

• Do you understand and know how to read food labels?

Would you like to speak to a Nutritionist?

2. When should I begin annual screenings?

• • •

Age 21: Pap Smear Age 40: Mammograms Age 50: Colonoscopy

health/wellness Keeping up with screenings will maintain your health overall. NOTE: Depending on your family history you may want to begin certain screenings earlier for prevention and early detection. Blood work is done depending upon symptoms and family history. Baseline labs, to test current parameters regarding specific medical issues, can be done as early as age 30.

3. I am having some incontinence concerns, would you talk to me about them?

•

• •

Many women experience bladder leakage when they laugh, cough, sneeze, when rushing around and when intimate. Does that happen to you?

Are you able to maintain your typical daily activities, if not, why?

What precipitates the leaking? Have you tried any treatments?

There are different modalities available today for the prevention and treatment of leakage. First in line are Kegel exercises which are to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, next is a referral to a Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner, who focuses on the pelvic floor muscles to improve strength. Lastly is the use of medications for stress incontinence and urinary urgency.

4. Since I have entered my 40's, I have been experiencing some physical and emotional changes.

Does this mean I will soon be menopausal?

• • • •

Do you still have your menstrual cycles? If so, describe them to me.

Describe the symptoms you are experiencing.

Do the symptoms interrupt your work or daily activities?

Are you taking any vitamin supplements or OTC hormone medications?

The perimenopausal (when ovaries begin to produce less estrogen) and menopausal years can be very trying. Our hormones are fluctuating and we as woman don't feel the same. I tell my patients, “we hate our hormones when we are younger and want them back when we are older." It doesn’t have to be a miserable time. Take it day by day. Medications can be prescribed if the symptoms are disrupting daily activities. If your symptoms are manageable, work with them; increase exercise to reduce some symptoms, dress in layers, and watch out for the triggers that set off hot flashes or night sweats. Talk with your partner so they understand how you are feeling and can become your ally. As a medical provider, I find that giving patients time to talk is a very helpful stress reliever.

5. What about my sexual health, is there anything I need to be more aware of?

• • • • •

Are you in an intimate relationship?

Are you trying to conceive?

Do you experience any pain or discomfort during sexual activity? lf using contraception, what method are you using?

If not, are you interested in a method?

Are you concerned about sexually transmitted infections? Would you like to be screened?

Sexuality is the least commonly discussed topic by female patients with their medical provider. Female medical providers are 10% more apt to discuss questions regarding sexuality than male providers (45% versus 35% respectively). Regardless of your medical provider’s gender, ask your questions. Be bold.

If you have questions speak up! This is your health and wellness we’re talking about here, this is important! If you're uncomfortable discussing your body with your current medical provider, then maybe it’s time to find a new provider. Ask your girl friends or other female medical professionals who they see, and do some research online. Make sure whoever you choose affords you the time and comfort level to be open, honest and maybe even a bit candid during your visits. Your health and wellness deserve nothing less than the best.

Resources

Association of Reproductive Health Professionals and the National W o m e n ' s R e s o u r c e C e n t e r. A r h p . o r g . 1 1 / 0 9 / 0 9 .

A n n a F l e e t . “ 8 T h i n g s t o A s k Yo u r D o c t o r a t Yo u r A n n u a l C h e c k u p ” , Activebeat. 7/25/2013 C a s e y, P e t r a M . M D . “ A s k i n g t h e D i f f i c u l t O u e s t i o n s i n a P a t i e n t E n c o u n t e r P r o v i d e s G r e a t Te a c h i n g O p p o r t u n i t i e s ” , M a y o C l i n i c College of Medicine, 11/2006.

Mayo Clinic Staff, “Perimenopause-Preparing for Appointment”, The Huffington Post, 11/2/2015.

Dawn R. Mossburg, CRNP Graduated from The University of Maryland– Baltimore, School of Nursing with a Master's in Nursing and a Certificate as a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner in 2003. Certified by NCC in 2003. Graduated from the Northern Virginia School of Therapeutic Massage in 2015. Licensed as a Massage Therapist in the state of Maryland 2015. Dawn has worked for Capital Women's/Ob and GYN Center since December 2004.

FALL 16 59

recipe

Fall Flavors to Fall For

By Sarah Kurtanich

Come fall, I like a little pumpkin spice as much as the next person. There is something so soothing about sipping on a seasonal latte now and again. That being said, I prefer to know what’s in my food. I created this recipe for pumpkin spice nut milk to get my pumpkin flavor fix without any mysterious or questionable ingredients. It’s perfect as a coffee creamer substitute, blended into a pumpkin spice smoothie or for sipping while shopping online for a new fall sweater.

Homemade Pumpkin Spice Nut Milk

1 1/2 C nut of your choice (I used cashews)

3 C water (x2)

Pinch of celtic sea salt

1/2 C maple syrup

1/2 C pumpkin puree

1 Tbsp pumpkin spice seasoning

1 Soak 1.5 cups nuts of your choice (I like cashews) in 3 cups water for at least 2 hours or up to overnight. 2 When you’re ready to blend, drain the cashews and rinse well (do not use the soaking water.) 2 Add them to a blender with 3 cups fresh water, pinch of salt, maple syrup, pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice seasoning.

Blend until well combined. The milk will keep for 2-3 days in a very cold refrigerator.

WEB EXCLUSIVE s on More recipe com e. in az ag m sass

Apple Pecan Sweet Potato Blondies

1 1/3 C fl our (I used white whole wheat, but all purpose is good too) 1 1/4 tsp baking powder pinch salt

1/3 C coconut oil

1/2 C sugar (I used coconut sugar)

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla

3/4 C mashed sweet potato

1/2 chopped apple

1/2 C chopped pecans

60 SASS magazine | sassmagazine.com

1 Preheat oven 350 degrees. Prep an 8x8 inch square pan by spraying it with cooking spray, lining with parchment paper and adding another quick spray of cooking oil. 2 Sift together the flour, baking powder and salt. 3 In a mixing bowl cream together the coconut oil and sugar.

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well between each. Add vanilla extract and sweet potato and mix again until very well combined. 4 Add flour mixture and stir until just combined then gently mix in the apple and pecans. 5 Spread into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Bake for 20-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. 6 Cool on a wire rack, then cut into squares. Store in an airtight container for up a week. Dessert for breakfast! Yum!

P h o t o g r a p h y: n e e d p h o t o g r a p h e r

If you’re in need of a little nosh with your java, whip up a batch of these sweet potato blondies. This recipe is already dairy free, and could easily be made gluten free by swapping out the flour.

recipe

P h o t o g r a p h y: s a r a h k u r ta n i c h

Sarah Kurtanich Sarah is a food enthusiast. She blogs about her own life and culinary adventures at BySarahRae.com, leads culinary tours of her beloved hometown with Taste Frederick Food Tours and brings epicurean enjoyment to others’ homes through her catering company Taste Gather Enjoy. www.tastefrederickfoodtours.com

FALL 16 61

the un corporate headshot 202.213.1272

MK@MKMcKenna.com

MKMcKenna.com PhotograPhy

Frederick’s Diamond Experts for 68 years and counting.

1 S. Market St.

| Frederick, MD 21701 | 301.663.9252 On the Square Corner in Downtown Frederick

www.colonialjewelers.com