2023 Southern Maryland Women to Watch

A DANCER’S MINDSET

TYANNA ATKINS BALANCES STUDIO OWNERSHIP AND SOCIAL WORK

PROFILES OF EXTRAORDINARY WOMEN AROUND SOUTHERN MARYLAND

We invite you to read about extraordinary women in our community and their accomplishments! Women to Watch spotlights the work, dedication, talents and community service of women in Southern Maryland who continue to lead in their respective fields and those who embody strength, vitality, leadership and integrity for our community. We invited readers to nominate women who exemplify excellence, both in navigating their career path and as community leaders.

Our portal that accepted nominations was open on somdnews.com from Friday, January 13th, 2023 through Wednesday, February 8th, 2023. During this 4-week period, we received (96) nominations of extraordinary women who work or reside in Charles, St. Mary’s, Calvert and Prince George’s counties.

An APG Media of Chesapeake internal committee and an external committee made up of community members met after nominations closed. They embarked on the extraordinarily difficult task of identifying women to interview for the 2023 Women to Watch Magazine. The committee worked through a set of criteria for the nominees. The criteria includes nominees’ community service, professional accomplishments and entrepreneurship as well as their work with mentoring and inspiring others.

As you can imagine, it was an exceedingly difficult decision. Each nominee had invaluable contributions indelible both in the community and workplace. The names within these pages represent women who are breaking stereotypes to positively impact our world today while inspiring future generations.

This edition, we are especially grateful to have several wonderful contributors. Our cover photographer was a Woman to Watch nominee and also took photos at our Best of the Best event; one of our feature writer was the editor of Southern Maryland Woman magazine for many years; one of our feature writers is a former reporter for Southern Maryland News who served on our inaugural Women to Watch committee; and finally, one of our feature writers, who was born and raised in Calvert County, is going to be our intern this summer. We are so excited for this edition and so delighted by our partners that help make this happen.

— The Women to Watch 2023 Committee

Table of Contents

PROFILES

ROBBI

ALY

BROOKE

ELIZABETH

TARSHEA

JODIE

ERIN

NICKI

DR.

JENNIFER

SHARI

KATHY

STAFF INFO

EDITOR

Eli Wohlenhaus

ewohlenhaus@chespub.com

REGIONAL SALES MANAGER

Brook Ash bash@chespub.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Stacy Moreland

Carol Solar

Terri Raley

Martin Eckholm

DESIGN

Jennifer Quinn

CONTRIBUTORS

Tara Zarilla

Rachel Lytle

Cecelia Shilling

Madison Bateman

ROBBI INGRAM

Owner and leader

Lucianna’s Steakhouse and BYB Fitness, Girl Scout Troop

HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE SELECTED AS A WOMAN TO WATCH?

I am truly honored to be selected. It always feels good to be recognized for what you do and I am cognizant that my daughters are always watching. I am mindful to model the behavior that I would like them to emulate. Attributes that will carry them through life such as integrity, kindness, reliability and service. I believe the life you live is the lesson you teach.

WHAT IS THE MOST DIFFICULT PART ABOUT OWNING A BUSINESS?

Being a business owner is very rewarding but also comes with its challenges. The most challenging part is time management and being present and accountable. In order to be successful, I had to learn everyone’s strengths and how their skills and talents could be best utilized. Above all, you have to be aware that the decisions you make affect your entire staff and the community at large, they are relying on you to make the right choices.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE ALL YOU DO AS A BUSINESS OWNER, MOM, GIRL SCOUT TROOP LEADER AND MORE?

I have been fortunate enough to be raised by remarkable women who followed the motto “If you believe it, then you can achieve it”. Perseverance

and prioritizing your passions are key. Everyday looks different, but as long as I’m showing up as my best I know it will all fall into place.

Additionally, I know the importance of surrounding yourself with supportive people — like my husband, my work-family, and women in this community — they help me manage it all.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE WAY TO GET INVOLVED IN THE COMMUNITY?

I enjoy getting involved in my community. The community is diverse and offers numerous ways to

Photo by Breeana Carter

contribute to different foundations and organizations. I like to shop small to support our local businesses.

I volunteer as much as possible at my children’s school and make it a practice to go to local cultural and entertainment venues. We also hire many of the youths in the community and listen to their thoughts — it is inspiring and gives me new perspectives.

WHAT IS A FUTURE GOAL YOU HAVE FOR (CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE ANSWER — COULD RELATE TO FAMILY, BUSINESS, VOLUNTEERING OR OTHER)??

So many people were affected adversely because of the COVID-19 pandemic. One of my future goals is to be more aware of my spiritual, mental and physical wellbeing especially with the conditions we live under today.

We have recently opened a Fitness Center to ensure that we and our community maintain a healthy lifestyle, relieve stress, improve our mental capacity and build a community with others who are trying to develop a positive mindset.

As long as I’m showing up as my best I know it will all fall into place.

ALY CROSS

Vice president, director and teaching artist Children’s Theatre of Southern Maryland

HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE SELECTED AS A WOMAN TO WATCH?

What a fun, hugely flattering surprise?! It’s been a doozy of a year, so this was a nice little kick-in-thepants to remind me that what we’re doing is right, and that CTSMD is truly my dream project.

WHAT DREW YOU TO ACTING AND DIRECTING?

My mother would tell you that I’ve always been an actress. (Please don’t interview her.) The high school I attended had an amazing theatre program where I fell in love with the study and history of acting as an artform. It wasn’t until well into my stint in NYC when I began to explore the “other side” of the stage with directing and I never looked back.

WHAT IS A FAVORITE OR FUNNY MEMORY YOU HAVE AS A PERFORMER?

Possibly less funny and maybe more traumatic? I was playing the role of L’il Red Riding Hood in Into The Woods and had to dance with the Wolf. At one point, he stood directly behind me and was supposed to reach around and grab my left hand, extending our arms out to the left, and tango across the stage. Unfortunately, along with my hand, his furry paw took the left side of my white button-down shirt with it, popping buttons and all! It took about three seconds for me to realize that this tango had quickly turned R-rated. I still have nightmares.

HOW HAS THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF SOUTHERN MARYLAND IMPACTED THE COMMUNITY?

In just one short year, we have grown exponentially! Our classes are becoming more and more populated with eager young actors, dancers and singers each 6 (and some 12) week sessions. The need for more performing arts education and opportunities is huge in our area, and we are just starting to scratch the surface, realizing how much talent is really out there. With each of our

Photo courtesy of Aly Cross

productions, we continue to raise the bar, and challenge the performers and ourselves to be the greatest performing arts opportunity for the youth of southern Maryland.

WHAT ARE SOME GOALS YOU HAVE FOR THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF SOUTHERN MARYLAND?

We want our classes to be filled to the brim! The more students we have enrolled, the more each participant gets out of the 6 or 12-week course. We’re also looking forward to possibly doing two summer shows in 2024, allowing for more participation for the kids, and entertainment for the community. Our fundraising efforts are kicking into high gear this year, and we are hoping to ONE day have our own venue that we call “home”; where our classes and performances can take place in a centralized spot, accessible to all of Southern Maryland’s talented youth!

We are just starting to scratch the surface, realizing how much talent is really out there.

Photo by Lara Reisman

Photo by Lara Reisman

Brooke Fritz

Owner

Top Shelf Bar and Mixology Consulting

When Fritz, 29, saw that bar and restaurant owners in Southern Maryland needed help taking their businesses to the next level, she knew it was time to step in. She took her passion for mixology and designed a business that enabled her to make a profit from the activity she loves the most — making cocktails.

Owner of Top Shelf Bar and Mixology Consulting, Fritz gained an interest in drink making while working alongside her father.

“I grew up in the restaurant industry,” she said. “My dad owned a speakeasy in Leonardtown where people would sign up to take craft cocktail classes.”

After Fritz’s father sold his business, she noticed the demand for their cocktail classes didn’t go away.

“People in Southern Maryland like to drink,” she said.

Fritz began teaching mixology classes at several places across Southern Maryland including No Thyme to Cook in Solomons and Quality Street Cooking and Catering in Leonardtown.

“Bartending is a Jack and Coke,” she said. “Mixology is curated ingredients. It’s like an artform …

Story by Madison Bateman

Photos by Drake Ford Photography

I really enjoy working from scratch and I work off of my taste buds. It gives me a creative outlet to make something new and fun.”

Ashley Fortney, a regular attendee of Fritz’s cocktail class, said she decided to try it out with her sister as a bonding experience after their father had passed.

“After taking our first class we loved it so much that we made a pact with each other to attend as many of them as possible … We’ve attended eight classes in the past year and we hired her for a private party last May.”

Fortney said her favorite cocktail Fritz has taught her to make is a smoked old fashioned.

“Brooke’s passion is contagious and you can’t help but fall in love with her and what she does,” Fortney said. “She’s also very encouraging when teaching and makes you feel like you’re right at home.”

She also mentioned Brooke’s openmindedness and willingness to change a drink to your liking.

“There’s no wrong way of drinking,” Fritz said. “The right way is how your taste buds want it … I always start with minimal sugar and add more as I go to tailor the drink to the person.”

PROFILE

“Brooke walked right through my front door and told me we should offer mixology classes,” Gwyn Novak, owner of No Thyme to Cook, said. “We’ve been working together ever since.”

Novak and Fritz’s business workings don’t stop with the monthly mixology classes. The pair, along with wine specialist Nikki Goldstein, create a monthly wine vlog where they try various food, cocktails, wine and share their experiences along the way.

“Wine Thyme was created for viewers to enjoy a relaxed guide to food, wine and cocktails by people you can trust,” Fritz said. In addition, the three women run an online wine club where anyone can order special boutique wines from wineries around the world for a great price.

For the past five years, Fritz and Novak have been teaming up to host craft cocktail workshops at least once a month at No Thyme.

Every class Fritz picks a theme and teaches how to make three different cocktails while the No Thyme chefs design a tasting menu that pairs well with the drinks.

“She is very creative and incredibly talented at combining flavors,” Novak said. “The classes are a really fun time. Brooke is a blast and has a very magnetic and lovable personality.”

As her popularity grew, various restaurants across the region began including Fritz’s drinks on their menu. Southern Trail Distillery, Hilton Garden Inn, Old Line Pub and Brüdergarten to name a few. Partly what makes her cocktails so amazing is her use of fresh ingredients.

“You can absolutely tell a difference when your ingredients are fresh,” Fritz said.

The mixologist has gone as far as taking up beekeeping so she has access to the freshest honey possible to create her own simple syrups. She also recently constructed a vineyard in her backyard.

Top Shelf Bar provides consulting services for businesses, which includes teaching staff how to provide good service, make consistent craft cocktails and properly pour, creating customized drink menus and pricing.

“I’m like the cool aunt; I teach them what I know and then it’s up to them to keep it up,” she said. “I’m a stickler for measuring … you’ll know exactly how much customers are drinking and how much you’re spending.”

Fritz is certified through the State of Maryland to provide alcohol training to individuals and groups.

“Southern Maryland is a great place for business,” Fritz said. “Although it can be cut throat, there is a supportive community. I want every small business to succeed.”

Fritz has been recognized a few times for her talents. In 2016, Fritz and her father won Southern Maryland’s Best Craft Cocktail in 2016 for their smoked maple

bourbon old-fashioned and in 2018 she won the Mid-Atlantic Battle of the Bottle Mixology Competition.

“Brooke is a business woman at heart and she knows where she wants to go,” Novak said. “Being raised here in Southern Maryland, she’s built an amazing network of friends and colleagues … She is a woman with a mission.”

If you would like to get in touch with Fritz, you can visit her website at www.topshelfmixologyconsulting.com.

You can absolutely tell a difference when your ingredients are fresh.

— Brooke Fritz

ELIZABETH ASHLEY

Owner Calvert Dog Academy

HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE SELECTED AS A WOMAN TO WATCH?

It’s fantastic to be selected as a Woman to Watch. Every year, I read the amazing profiles of Southern Maryland women and I am motivated by their stories. Women to Watch has inspired my dog training practice through your stories of service, mentorship and leadership. It’s a thrill to be nominated and featured this year.

WHAT ORIGINALLY DREW YOU TO DOGS AND WHAT IS IT LIKE OWNING A BUSINESS GEARED TOWARDS CANINES?

I enjoy working with dogs and the people who care for them, and I am energized by my work. I started as a volunteer at my local shelter. For anyone interested in considering a career working with animals, volunteering is a great way to start. There are so many wonderful rescues and shelters who would appreciate your time. At my local shelter, I immediately fell in love with dog training. It’s been a rewarding and enjoyable journey ever since!

Owning a dog training business is rewarding because I get to work with dogs all the time. In addition, I get to share my passion for dog training with clients, staff, and volunteers. Our practice is all about supporting families and dogs, as they develop relationships based on love and respect. It’s about building the human-animal bond — that includes communication skills. Helping our clients have a home that is happy and safe is deeply embedded in our culture. We do this by working with both dogs and their people on their skills.

We wear many hats throughout the day too. In a single day, we can go from training puppy foundations, to working with a dog with a bite history, to working with a service dog. Our case-load runs on a wide-variety of topics, and so we have to be nimble. Our curiosity for finding solutions to the variety of dog training challenges is what makes this job so dynamic!

WHAT DO PEOPLE COMMONLY MISUNDERSTAND ABOUT DOGS AND DOG TRAINING?

There is a lot of really great information available about dog training. However, there are also a lot of thoroughly debunked myths that still circulate. Be very careful where you get your information. Dog training is an unlicensed profession, with no continuing education requirements. That means no oversight in managing the public’s best interest.

In order to provide our clients with the most modern dog training techniques, we choose to stay current. Our profession is evolving all of the time. We do a lot of

Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Ashley

professional development and continuing education. This includes staying up to date with national and international standards, staying current on medical research, and also doing in-person training courses for mechanical skills.

If your dog is struggling, and you feel like you’ve hit a roadblock, there are ways to get help at many different levels of intervention. If you want to look online, we recommend that you check out FearFreeHappyHomes. com which has practical advice and videos that have been vetted by licensed professionals.

So many dog behavior challenges have a medical component, that we often recommend reaching out to your veterinarian. As your dog trainer, I am your coach with training exercises, management strategies, and enrichment activities. When appropriate, we refer our clients to one of the licensed and board-certified veterinary behaviorists in our region. There are a lot of options out there. Whatever your goals or challenges, there are support options for you and your dog!

IN WHAT WAYS ARE YOU INVOLVED IN THE COMMUNITY AND WHAT DOES THAT MEAN TO YOU?

Wag Workshops is our nonprofit. We have several programs including:

• Therapy Dog Program, with

• In person dog training classes and

• Coordinated visits to hospitals and schools

• Separation Anxiety Dog Training Class Online (you get personalized plans),

• Dog Training Manners Class (pay-what-you-can) in-person

• Online Learning Center, with articles and videos from local professionals.

In addition, we attend events and fairs and we provide free equipment upgrades for dog walking equipment. We hope to see you at an upcoming event.

Wag Workshops is an amazing program which simultaneously provides excellent information to the public, fun and rewarding volunteer activities, and career development opportunities for aspiring trainers. Please check it out if you are interested in volunteering or learning more about dogs. It’s a great chance to get out into the community, meet new friends and have a fun time.

WHAT IS A GOAL YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE, EITHER IN BUSINESS OR IN YOUR PERSONAL LIFE?

I am in the middle of developing and growing the nonprofit and our dog training business. Right now, that’s just the right amount of work for me. I’m enjoying the process, which includes getting to know so many wonderful people and their dogs.

I love seeing dogs learn and grow, and I love seeing all of our projects take on a life of their own. There is so much joy in dog training and in running a business, and I want to share that joy with everyone!

Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Ashley

TARSHEA SMITH

Owner We Wear Hair Lounge

HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE SELECTED AS A WOMAN TO WATCH?

Being selected as a woman to watch makes me feel like all of my hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed or ignored. I’m honored and blessed for this opportunity. I appreciate the fact that no matter the race, demographic, financial status, etc., you can still make a positive impact in the community.

WHEN DID YOU FIRST WANT TO START WORKING WITH HAIR?

I fell in love with hair when I was a young girl. My mother studied cosmetology and I would try to replicate her designs on my barbie dolls hair. From there, into young adulthood, I found my niche with wigs and hair extensions.

WHAT WAS THE MOST DIFFICULT PART AND MOST REWARDING PART OF THE PROCESS IN BECOMING A BUSINESS OWNER?

The most difficult part is finding a good support system, marketing, being patient, and funding.

The most rewarding part is being able to look at my

establishment and say, “this is mine! I did it! I can’t wait for the full manifestation of my business!” Also, building relationships within the community, giving the community the customer service and education they deserve when they are purchasing hair from WWH is very rewarding. It is an emotionally beneficial experience for both the customer and I when they feel comfortable in my retail establishment.

WHEN DID YOU FIRST START WORKING WITH THE ELDERLY AND FOCUSING ON THEIR BEAUTY NEEDS?

I became invested with working with the elderly when my grandmother lived in an assisted living home. One of the things that really made her smile

was putting on a fresh wig and looking in the mirror. Despite the circumstances and conditions of the women in the assisted living homes, they still wanted to feel beautiful and confident. I wanted to help them.

When my grandmother passed, I wanted to continue making mature women feel beautiful. Instead of them going to a store, I brought the best virgin hair experience to them by providing “pop-ups” to Assisted Living Homes in the DC, Maryland and Virginia area.

WHAT IS A GOAL YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE, EITHER IN BUSINESS OR IN YOUR PERSONAL LIFE?

My goal for the future is to obtain public speaking opportunities and to expand We Wear Hair’s Vision in underdeveloped business areas. I want to continue to celebrate women, hair, provide education, and support to women with hair loss concerns (e.g., cancer, Alopecia, burn patients). I also want to continue to service the senior citizen community so they will always feel comfortable embracing their beauty and feel confident.

It’s not what you wear, it’s how you wear your hair. On June 24, I will celebrate my one year anniversary. The movement is titled “The Way Of the Woman” with an all-star woman line up. We are not only celebrating my virgin hair store, but all women that love hair. My website www.wewearhairlounge.com will provide more information.

Lineup for Way of the Woman:

Hosted by: Tarshea Smith

Music Guest - Beladona

Motivational Speaker - Dr. Anissa Ferguson

Comedian Mi-Mi

DJ - Ms. Sexy Spice

I wanted to continue making mature women feel beautiful.

Photo by Tarshea Smith W2W

JODIE SPARKS

Co-owner Safe 47 Boutique

HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE SELECTED AS A WOMAN TO WATCH?

This came as a complete shock to me! I’m honored to be thought of as a “woman to watch.” There are so many women in this community who are strong, hard working, admirable women. To be chosen as a woman to watch really is a true honor.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE BEING A BUSINESS OWNER AND A MOTHER?

It’s so funny this question was asked; honestly speaking for myself and my sisters, if you see us in our store restocking or updating things, 9 out of 10 times you will see us with one, or all of our children.

When we got into this business, we knew motherhood and family would still be a priority. Our kids really do enjoy getting involved. They love to help tag items and be a part of the process.

WHAT DREW YOU TO WANTING TO OWN A BOUTIQUE?

Personally this has always been a dream of mine. I love clothes and I love styling outfits. I’ve always been the friend who people come to for fashion advice. This was just second nature. My sisters and I discussed opening a business together and the rest is history.

Jodie Sparks, center, poses with her sisters and Sage 47 Boutique co-owners Allison Mastin, left, and Annie Jameson, right.

Photos by Jenny Smith Photography

I’m honestly so lucky to be able to do this with my sisters. We’re best friends, and this has been fun for all of us. All of our styles are similar, but different. I believe we really showcase that in our pieces.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB AND WHAT IS THE HARDEST PART OF YOUR JOB?

The best part of owning a boutique is seeing other people happy. Believe it or not, the thrill of helping another woman feel beautiful is the absolute best feeling. That is why we got involved with this in the first place. I’m not a cookie cutter size, and I used to have trouble finding pieces that made me feel beautiful. To be able to uplift a community of women is truly remarkable.

The hardest part of this job at first, was the work/ life balance. I also work a 9-5 job and own another small business with my husband James (Sparks Custom Metal Works). It took some time, but I found a nice balance, and my sisters and I have great communication skills. We all do our part.

WHAT IS A GOAL YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE, EITHER IN BUSINESS OR IN YOUR PERSONAL LIFE?

This question is actually hard. I have so many goals and ambitions. We love teaming up, and working with other local businesses. It’s so important when you live in a small community. We would love to do more community outreach projects.

A personal goal would be to have something to pass down to our children one day. The most amazing part of owning a small business when you have young children is that your kids get to learn work ethic, determination and hard work right from the source. These are things that can’t be taught, but learned over time. It also shows our kids that even though we work, family time is still important.

To be able to uplift a community of women is truly remarkable.

Erin Kimbro

Owner

231 Farm & Outdoor Sports

Story and photos by Cecelia Shilling

Erin Kimbro, owner of 231 Farm & Outdoor Sports, has been working to grow her equipment store since she and her family first started selling mulch out of her brother’s office in 2011.

After spending more than ten years working in Calvert County public schools as a teacher at Calvert High School and later as dean of Southern Middle School, Kimbro wanted to spend time working with her family after being inspired by her parents.

“I really wasn’t actually expecting to be where I am today, like growing and selling boats, tractors and stuff,”

Kimbro said. “I’ve always watched my mom and dad have their own business. They built houses for 38 years and I always kind of wanted to be an entrepreneur and get into that. So I just, you know, wanted to try something different and work with the family.”

Kimbro began a bulk mulch business alongside her brother, Kurt Fowler, and her father, William ‘Foozie’ Fowler in 2011.

That fall, Kimbro opened 231 Farm, Home & Pet Center with the help of her family. The store sold things like baby chicks and farm supplies.

She remembers thinking of ways to diversify her products when her sister, Laura Gosheff, suggested the store start to sell water sports equipment.

“It was actually her idea to get into watercraft, to do the sea-doos and the boats,” Kimbro said. “So we were like, ‘what the heck, we’re surrounded by water and nobody sells marine equipment around here. Let’s give it a go.’”

The store, now called 231 Farm & Outdoor Sports, has grown into a full-service supplier of tractors, boats and sea-doos. The store sits on a lot in Prince Frederick’s industrial park surrounded by golf carts and tractors.

“She built this on her own, pretty much,” said Gosheff. “We were there to help and do things, but she’s the main reason we’re here.”

Kimbro didn’t expect the business to grow as much as it has. She feels that the community has embraced the,store and her role as a local business owner, even in the face of some sexism in the farm and sports supply industry.

Being a woman starting in the field was hard, Kimbro

said. She remembers being laughed at for wanting to sell equipment and thought of something her husband, Nathan Kimbro, told her when she was upset.

“He basically was like, ‘I already know what’s going to happen,’” Kimbro said. “‘This is going to light a fire in your body. This is just going to make you want it more.’ And it was true, it definitely made me fight harder.”

Kimbro feels like she’s had to work harder than men to be a respected businessperson in the field.

“As a woman, I have to learn everything,” she said. “I have to make sure when a customer lifts up the hood of that tractor that I know what engines in that tractor, whereas I feel like if it was a man, it is a little bit different.”

This is going to light a fire in your body.

— Erin Kimbro

The support of the community is something Kimbro feels allowed her to grow her business to where it is today. Customers like to browse the store, she said, and often ask her what the store doesn’t sell because there are so many different “toys.”

“We have everything but submarines and helicopters, pretty much,” Kimbro said.

Kimbro has been working for the last six months to expand the store to a second location in St. Mary’s County. There, the store will be close to a very busy road that will hopefully introduce plenty of new people to the store, she said.

“We’ve been looking and trying for a while to get a sales location, really out in front of a lot of people,” Kimbro said. “So we’re very excited to get some new eyes and new customers.” The Prince Frederick location provides space for their larger equipment but is “tucked in the industrial park,” so location and visibility are something she prioritizes for the new store. “She’s doing a great job,” William Fowler said. “She’s just energetic and has the right attitude. It’s the only way we can beat the big box stores.”

Kimbro emphasized the importance of her family when it came to helping

the store. She said how appreciative she is of her husband, especially.

“We’re celebrating our 20-year wedding anniversary,” Kimbro said. “And I feel like he doesn’t really get enough credit for supporting me. There are times where, you know, he has really helped raise Gracee (their daughter) when I was by myself at the store for like seven days in a row.”

Kimbro is excited to keep expanding the store and serving the community. All of the employees of the shop are like family, she said, and she wants to continue to take care of them and make sure they are successful, as well. W2W

Joanna Ramsey has always enjoyed art. She has adegree in Graphic Design from Liberty University.Since having her three children, she became a stay at home mom. During the pandemic, she spent alot of time at home and started watching YouTube videos on chainsaw carving. She has always been fascinated by this form of art, but never thought it was something she could do. After watching afew beginner videos she asked her husband to show her how to use achainsaw and she took offfromthere!She’s been carving for over ayearnow and is excited to see what the futureholds.

Island Music Co.

HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE SELECTED AS A WOMAN TO WATCH?

I am honored. Southern Maryland has so many women accomplishing amazing things. I prefer to be behind the scenes most of the time so it is a strange, but wonderful, feeling to be recognized.

WHAT WENT INTO YOU AND YOUR HUSBAND’S DECISION TO HAVE A MUSIC BUSINESS?

Music is my husband’s passion, I am not the least bit musical. He has been working in the music instrument retail business since he was a teenager and only considered changing careers once in his life. During that time he began selling his personal guitars online as a side job. When he brought up the idea of making it into a full-time business I was supportive but kept my day job in social work.

I worked full-time at my job then would come to the store and take care of the bills, schedule lessons, and keep the books up to date. We outgrew our first store in six months and we knew I needed to work full time at the store to make it successful. It was a tough decision for me as I found my job working with kids to be very rewarding.

The learning curve was steep for me; I have a BS in Biology and Psychology and managed to avoid every business and accounting class at my college. I made a lot of mistakes over the last 15 years, but I learned within the first few months that the better I did at managing the business the more I could give back to the community through the business itself.

From that point forward we both just jumped right in and put everything we had into it. Looking back I laugh at how optimistic we were- we were not even married yet. It was blind faith, really. We just knew that with hard work we could make it work. We never considered any other ending other than success.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF OWNING A SMALL BUSINESS IN CHARLES COUNTY?

We still have a small-town feel in our community even though we are growing. People still support their local businesses and businesses still give back to their community. I love seeing our youngest customers grow up into adults and starting families of their own. The majority of our staff right now started out as kids taking lessons at Island Music. I like to take credit for their success (ha — just kidding!).

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB AND WHAT IS THE HARDEST PART OF YOUR JOB?

Originally we tried to give to any cause that walked through the door. There must have been a free guitar or free lessons at every silent auction in Charles County. A few years in we decided to focus our efforts on supporting music and fine arts education for children, specifically. It is a cause close to our hearts, music for Keith and art for me, and we feel strongly that kids need an opportunity to develop an appreciation for the arts. There is such a strong push towards science and technology right now. I want to make sure that there is balance, that people understand the importance of art in our development personally and as a community.

Island Music has sponsored a variety of music lesson scholarships in the past. Some are funded entirely by our business and others are started by private funds from members of our community that we then match 100%. Scholarship eligibility varies by the funding source and what group of people the source is trying to reach.

Personally, I prefer to make scholarships based on a desire to learn and not based on ability. Everyone who wants to learn deserves the chance to learn. We have had memorial scholarships, income based scholarships, holiday gift scholarships, and foster care scholarships to name a few. I’m willing to work with anyone who is interested in sponsoring music lessons to develop a scholarship program.

Co-owner

Before the holidays we host a “Annual Holiday String Giveaway” where we restring any stringed instrument for free (including free strings) in exchange for a donation to the Southern Maryland Food Bank. Over the years we have collected about 2 tons of nonperishable food. We have restrung thousands of instruments- many of which were sitting around getting dusty but are now in the hands of kids and adults discovering or rediscovering music. It’s a win-win for the community. More playable instruments in the community and food for local families.

Of course, Rocktoberfest has been our most popular contribution to the community. Rocktoberfest was started by Keith and I as a way to raise money for the Charles County Public Schools Fine and Performing Arts

Program. This is a one-day street festival full of live local music, local vendors, food, beer and a national headlining band closing out the night. The event started out small in the beginning but thanks to the help of some really talented and dedicated women and men (Stacy Moreland, Sara Payne, Ashley Hermann and Dave Saunders, to name a few) it has become a truly amazing event.

I cannot take much credit for the Rocktoberfest that exists now other than the bookkeeping side of it. There is a limit to what a husband and wife team can do and still keep the peace.

We also have an art gallery in the halls of our building that showcases student artwork from around the county as well as local professional artists. I want to put as much art out into the community as possible. It inspires people and keeps art relevant in our minds.

WHAT IS A GOAL YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE, EITHER IN BUSINESS OR IN YOUR PERSONAL LIFE?

I want to rebuild our community outreach in the coming years. The pandemic took away a lot of our momentum with events and scholarship opportunities. We chose to focus solely on the business side to better support our staff and their families during the uncertainty. Now that things have calmed down we want to stretch out again. We are working to rebuild our lesson program, summer camps, and group courses. With that comes the ability to open our doors to people who want to learn but may not have the means. Long-term I hope to incorporate more of the arts into our outreach.

We have incorporated projects here and there, the mural on the building, the art gallery in the hallway, we painted the sidewalks with birds to resemble a popular guitar inlay, etc. But as far as getting paint and pencils into the hands of kids, there is room for growth there. I am excited for the future of our community and Island Music Company and I love that I am in a position to make meaningful and positive changes.

Photo courtesy of Nicki Grasso W2W

WOMEN TO

Aly Cross,Vice President, Volunteer Coordinator,Teaching Artist for the Children’sTheatre of SouthernMar yland

Amanda Kreig Essington,Owner/Dog Trainer, Happy Active Dog LLC

Anna Meyssami, DDS,General &Cosmetic Dentist, Gentle Family Dentistr yLLC

Anne Creel,Owner,Creative Expressions Florist

Audrey Moreland,Stylist/Color Specialist, Hair by Audrey M

Becky Gott,911 Dispatcher,CalvertCounty

Bernadette Wilson,Realtor,Re/Max

Beth Ramsey,Owner,Applejack K9 Academy

Beverly Newman,Owner/Senior Stylist, Bella Salon &Spa

Beverly Wiggins,Owner/Director,Victorious Kids Childcare Center

Brandy DePhillip,Accordionist

Bridgett Renea,Owner/Tattoo Artist, Hunny Bee Tattoo

Brooke Fritz,Owner of TopShelf Bar &Mixology Consulting

Brooke Howells,CEO, Power Tots Inc.

Carol Tameris,Owner/Director of Physical Therapy,Optimal Physical Therapy and Industrial Rehabilitation

Cayleigh Gibbons Hall,Militar yRelocation Professional, Realtor at RE/Max One

Chas Johnson,Resource Teacher,Father Andrew White, S.J. School

Cher yl Davis,Assistant Principal, North Point High School, Charles County Public Schools

Christa Hood, CPA,Managing Par tner of Askey,Askey &Associates, CPA, LLC

Christine Hays,Owner,Crazy Hays Fashion Boutique

Colleen Voegtli,Owner &Groomer,Bark &Bath Pet Salon

Danielle Shea,Owner at TheraPelvic, Pelvic Health Occupational Therapist, Pregnancy and Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialist

Dawn Lister,CalvertHigh School Criminal Justice Program Lead Teacher

Donna Retzlaff,Executive Director,Spring Dell Center

Fran Hrapsky,Owner,Audiologist, Rocket Hearing &Balance

Dreama-Destiny Hart,Make Up Artist, Lash Artist, Dreamy Days Beauty

Elizabeth Ashley,Owner,Dog Trainer,Calvert Dog Academy

Erin Kimbro,Owner,231 Farm, Home &Outdoor Sports

Fran Hrapsky,Yoga Instructor and Studio Owner,Zentral Station

Georgia Bonney,Founder and Director,Neighborhood Creative Arts

Center,The Thinking Kid, and Children’sVoices of SouthernMar yland

Jaimie Devlin,Landscape Designer,ECOBAYLandscape |Design

Jami Keyes,Mail Hauler/Trucking Company Owner; KATLYN, INC.

T/A Sweeney Trucking

Janice Wilson,Retired CIA employee

Janine DeLauder,Teacher Mentor,Charles County Public Schools

Jeannine James,Mayor,Town of La Plata

Jenna Goldey,Owner,JellyBeans Early Learning Center

Jennifer Raley,Customer Program Manager,Energy &Technology Programs Manager,SMECO

Jennifer Vorm,MBA, CFE, Owner,Livre Financial

Jill Bowen Buck,OysterAquaculture Owner/Crab and Oyster Retailer, Patuxent Seafood Company

Joanna Ramsey,Chainsaw Car ver -JHR Chainsaw Car vings

Jodie Sparks, Owner,Sage47Boutique

Jordan Bittner Nagers,Owner/Manager,Brick Wood Fired Bistro

Joyce Duncan,General Manager,Barber,JD’sBarbershop

Julie Yowell,2nd Grade Teacher 31 years in Charles County, Manager/Personal Trainer,MeridianFitness

Jymil Licorish,Lieutenant, United States Air Force, Joint Base Andrews

Karen Kleyle,CEO/Founder,Personal Trainer,Strength Connection Fitness

Dr.Karla M. Kornegay,MBA, Retired DoD Intelligence, Founder, Kornegay &Associates, LLC

Kathy McKay,Owner,Club Pilates SOMD &Owner,Row House SOMD

Kellie Smith,Former Baltimore Ravens Cheerleader,Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, and Director of CalvertHealth’sOutpatient Rehabilitation Ser vices

2023 NOMINEES Congratulations

Kelly Robertson-Slagle,Director of Economic Development for Charles County,Mar yland

Kelsea DeVries,Doctor of Physical Therapy,Registered Yoga Instr uctor, What Moves You?

Kim Hancock,Co-Owner,Hancock Family Farms

Kimberly Rosenfield, CFP,CRPS, Vice President, Financial Advisor, The Rosenfield Group at Morgan Stanley

Lacey Fox,Lash Technician, Laceys Lashes Beauty Lounge

Lara Reisman, Secretar y, Public Affairs/Social Media Director,Children’s Theatre of SouthernMar yland

LaTina Wilson,Retired Major,U.S. Army,Former Charles County Public Schools Board Chair

Lisa Poe, Owner,Little Bugs Nature Preschool

Lisa Wilson Wills, Realtor,Re/Max ONE

Lynn Kilinski,Owner/Hair Stylist, Illusions Hair and Nail Salon

Mandy Wood, Owner,Care with Grace LLC (Care with Grace Senior Care Ser vice)

Margaret Thompson, Owner,Scalped Salon and Spa

Marilyn Boswell,Owner,Hypnotique Ink, Reiki Master,Crystal Shop Owner,Spiritual Mentor,Pastor

Marisa Drake,Teacher of Chorus, Theater,Dance, Patuxent High School, Calver tCounty Public Schools

Mar yanna Lanham,Executive and Program Director,Dream Queen Foundation INC soon to be Life Atlas Foundation

Megan Vaughn,Owner,Vaughan Cheese Counter &Bar

Michelle Folsom Elder,M.D.,CalvertCounty Health Depar tment, Physician Liaison and CalvertHealth MedicalCenter,Family Physician

Michelle White, Office Manager,Fixed Right and Guaranteed Super Techs

Dr.Monica Mehta,MehtaPediatrics, Jani Internal Medicine

Mya Mahaffey,Student-Athlete, La Plata High School, Queen Nicotina 2022

Nadine Jones,Mrs. Mar yland Earth

Natalie Culbert,Tattoo Artist, Shop 53 Custom Tattoo and ArtStudio

Nicola Grasso,Co-Owner of Island Music Company and KNA Properties, Treasurer of Rocktoberfest

Pamela McIntyre,Director of Operations, Freedom Hearing Center

Rachel LaBatt,Flight Test Engineer,Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division

Dr.Rebecca Jahed, Clinical Audiologist/Owner,Freedom Hearing Center LLC

Robbi Ingram,Owner,Lucianna’sSteakhouse and BYB Fitness

Robin Marion,Owner/Primar yTrainer,Velvet&Steel Fitness

Robyn Hanson,Franchise co-owner of SportClips Haircuts and Franchise co-owner of Rita’sItalian Ice

Rosalind M. Allen,Business Financial Manager,Patuxent River Naval Air Station

Sandra Outt,Photographer,BeStill Photography

Sandra Sanna-Buckles,Public Relations and Development Specialist, Mar yland Crime Victims’ Resource Center,Inc. (MCVRC)

Sara Sanders-Payne,Chief Financial Officer &Agent, Edward L. Sanders Insurance

Shannon Wang,Owner,Shop 53 Custom Tattooand ArtStudio &Bird City Records, President of the Souther nMDBusiness Network, and President of the 301 ArtCollective

Shari (Turner) Mackovyak,Teacher,Huntingtown High School, CalvertCounty Public Schools

Sherrise DeBaugh,Owner,Well&Fit ONE Personal Training, LLC

Sue Ann Lewis Armitage,Attorney/Managing Partner, Armitage &Armitage

Sue Greer,Attorney/Partner,The Greer Law Firm

Suzanne Lee,Baker,The Cookie Mom Company

Sydnie Chandler Monet’ Collins,Podcaster of Perfect Timing Podcast, Philanthropist, Motivational Speaker

Tammy L.S. Wright,Owner,ABC Fitness Connection

Tara Zarilla,Owner,RGSocial Marketing &RG SocialPhotography

TarsheaSmith,Beauty Boutique Owner,LicensedRealEstate Professional and Property Management Owner

TerriPesante-Close, EA,Owner/Accountant, Pesante-Close LLC

Tilwanda Dofat,CEO,Majestic Millionaires Travel Agency

TyannaAtkins,Co-Owner/Director/Instructor,TnT Dance Academy,LLC, Senior Psychiatric Rehabilitation Therapist, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center,Student, Salisbur yUniversity

Wendy Bonner,Owner/Operator, CaneyCreek Catering Company andBulrushes Cafe

Congratulations TO ALL THE WOMEN OF APG MEDIA

HERE’S TO STRONG WOMEN. MAY WE KNOW THEM. MAY WE BE THEM. MAY WE RAISE THEM.

-APG Chesapeake

DR. ANNA MEYSSAMI

Dentist and award-winning fiction author

Gentle Family Dentistry

HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE SELECTED AS A WOMAN TO WATCH?

It’s an honor to be recognized among such strong and accomplished women who inspire me to pursue my dreams and be the best that I can be.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE BEING A DENTIST AND BEING AN AUTHOR?

I am lucky to have two passions that I’ve been able to pursue professionally. Since I love both dentistry and writing, I actively make the time to do both. My top priority is with dentistry and my patients, to provide the best care for them. Outside of that, I

try to stick to a writing schedule I’ve set for myself, with minor and major deadlines that I work towards.

It’s difficult at times because life presents unexpected challenges, but I try to stay disciplined and find ways to motivate myself to keep at it.

WHAT ORIGINALLY DREW YOU TO DENTISTRY?

I had a great dentist and orthodontist growing up, and my good experiences there stuck with me into my college years, when I was deciding on a career path that would allow me to pursue my main passion: to help others live happy and healthy

Photo courtesy of Anna Meyssami

lives. The fact that there is such a strong artistic aspect to dentistry was the icing on top of the cake, since I’ve always loved creating art.

The confidence I gained after my braces came off is a feeling I still remember and one that I look forward to seeing in my own patients today. It’s incredibly rewarding when I see the smiles of my patients when they complete their treatments.

HOW DID YOU GET INTO WRITING AND WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART?

I have been writing since elementary school, when I made picture books out of stapled stacks of paper with stick-figure drawings and handwritten text riddled with misspellings (one book was called “Halloeen”), and I would read them to my little sister.

I don’t think I can pick a favorite part about my writing process because every step of it, from coming up with an entirely new world with believable characters, to revising the entire story for the 7th time (or more), is incredibly challenging yet fun. Hearing the reactions of my readers, especially the younger ones who remind me of my early years of becoming an avid reader, and seeing their enthusiasm for reading is the most rewarding part of it all.

WHAT IS A GOAL YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE, EITHER IN BUSINESS OR IN YOUR PERSONAL LIFE?

With dentistry, I look forward to continuing to find ways to serve my community and have a positive impact on people’s health, and volunteer for great organizations like Mission of Mercy.

As for my writing career, aside from finishing the next books in the Merrows series, I hope to visit schools to have talks with students about the importance of reading, writing, and nurturing creativity.

W2W

There is such a strong artistic aspect to dentistry

Photo courtesy of Anna Meyssami

Photo courtesy of Anna Meyssami

JENNIFER RALEY

Energy & technology programs manager Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative

HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE SELECTED AS A WOMAN TO WATCH?

It is a tremendous honor. So many amazing women in Southern Maryland are doing great things. Receiving this recognition just sets the bar even higher — challenging me to continue to do more and prove that I am a woman to continue to watch.

WHAT DOES A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A PROGRAM MANAGER AT SMECO LOOK LIKE?

One of my main duties at SMECO is managing our energy efficiency programs. My day involves engaging with internal and external stakeholders and working closely with other Maryland utilities who offer energy efficiency programs through EmPOWER Maryland to coordinate, collaborate and share lessons learned.

Through program evaluations and feedback from our members, the cooperative team makes adjustments to existing programs to develop additional innovative programs and pilots. My job involves creating, implementing, and managing the programs while also ensuring SMECO meets our savings goals and reporting requirements and stays within budget.

I try to ensure we are offering program options to our members that can help them no

matter what their goal. Whether the focus is saving the environment or saving money on your electric bill, we have programs that can help.

Managing the EmPOWER Maryland programs is a large part of my job but I also get to engage with our members at their homes, businesses, and community events. From discussing which program meets their individual or business needs, discussing electric bills and their components, to working an event and giving tips and ideas on how to save money — my job is never dull and is very rewarding.

Photo courtesy of SMECO

HOW DO YOU FOCUS ON CONSUMERS IN YOUR INDUSTRY?

SMECO is an electric cooperative and that means each customer is also a member and owner. Member service is at the core of what we do. As a member of the cooperative myself, I try to focus on improving our service and creating programs that help our members and our community.

SMECO’s focus is making sure we provide great member service with every interaction. Not every conversation is easy and sometimes the answer is not what someone wants to hear, but our top priority is superior customer service. We treat our members with respect, listen to their concerns, and provide the information and tools they need to help address their concerns.

IN WHAT WAYS ARE YOU INVOLVED IN THE COMMUNITY AND WHAT DOES THAT MEAN TO YOU?

My current community focus is on promoting energy efficiency and energy conservation. I am involved in a variety of events, including Earth Day and Green Fest events. I also participate in different speaking engagements and opportunities that come up throughout the year. I volunteer during SMECO’s MATHCOUNTS event, which is a fun event that aims to build and strengthen students’ interest in math.

I serve as vice chair of the Clean Air Partners board, promoting air quality awareness and informing, educating, and motivating individuals, businesses, organizations, and governments to improve air quality, and improve public health and the environment. I am also a member of St. John’s Household Green team where we focus on providing information to individuals and families to be able to reduce their environmental impacts and to reduce financial expenditures.

Outside of these activities, I stay very involved in supporting my kids with all the activities, clubs, and sports they are involved in. As a full-time mom working a full-time job, life stays very busy.

WHAT IS A GOAL YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE, EITHER IN BUSINESS OR IN YOUR PERSONAL LIFE?

This year I have focused on growth and learning. I have taken advantage of training opportunities and had the privilege to be part of the Leadership Southern Maryland (LSM) program this year. Through LSM, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with an amazing group of leaders in Southern Maryland all while learning, listening and seeing different issues and challenges that exist locally.

My LSM volunteer hours were spent with The Arc of Southern Maryland where I was fortunate to meet their amazing staff and the individuals and families they support. The opportunities provided through LSM have given me a new perspective and helped me see that so many people are dealing with different challenges, barriers, and struggles every day.

One of my goals for the future is to get more involved in the community and find more ways I can give back and continue to make a difference. W2W

My job involves creating, implementing, and managing

Congratulations to Jennifer Raley,SMECO’sEnergy and Technology Programs Manager–Demand Side Management, and to this year’s Women to Watch nominees.

SMECO is an electric cooperative, and that means we areowned by the customers we serve. As amember of the cooperative, I focus on improving customer service and creating programs to help our members and the community.SMECO’s focus is to provide great service with every interaction. We treat our members with respect, listen to their concerns, and provide the information and tools they need to help address their concerns.

“

~Jennifer Raley

Tyanna Atkins

TNT Dance Academy

&

Senior Psychiatric Rehabilitation Therapist

Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center

Twenty-five-year-old Waldorf native Tyanna Atkins was just two years old when she first started dancing – well, attempted dancing.

“My mom likes to tell the story of my first-ever dance recital; instead of performing on stage, I did the opposite — yelled at everyone for dancing and cheering at us,” Atkins mused.

However, it wasn’t long until she truly fell in love with the sport. In first grade, Atkins joined her local Dance Depot and stayed with the studio through high school, dancing in competitions throughout the DMV, making TV appearances, and even performing at local popular events like the Charles County Fair and Cherry Blossom Parade in DC.

“All of my formal training and love for dance started there,” said Atkins. “I was a super shy kid and dance helped bring me out of my shell. I felt at home with my dance friends. It was a place I could express myself through my movements, and tap was my favorite style.”

Atkins, who is referred to as “Ty” by her family and friends, graduated from Marshall University in 2019 and immediately returned to Maryland to work at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center in Baltimore as a Psychiatric Rehabilitation Therapist. After a year, she made the decision to return to school to get her master’s in social work.

Alongside these accomplishments, she always made a point to keep

dance part of her life. Whenever she came home from college on break, she would substitute teach at the studio, and after graduation, she made teaching her permanent side-job. Unfortunately when the pandemic hit, so was Dance Depot.

“When I found out our home studio was closing, it was a rough time,” Atkins said. “The studio was my second home for so long. And it was heartbreaking that many other young dancers would not have a place to dance and build lifelong memories and friendships as I had. That’s when my [now] co-owner and I knew what we had to do. It was the little bit of extra motivation we needed to go for it.”

One week later, TNT Dance Academy

Story by Rachel Lytle Photos by Tara Zarilla

Co-owner

was born. Atkins and her good friend Tonysha opened their own studio in August 2020. While the two had been dancers their entire lives, they didn’t know as much about business, which led to some stressful moments. But with a little help from family and friends, their fears turned to fortune.

“Both of our moms worked as receptionists in the beginning when we needed some additional support. And my dad built the floors in our first studio,” said Atkins. The biggest challenge was developing clientele and working within the pandemic rules. “Everything from the masks to no in-person classes or competitions was extremely difficult.”

Despite this, the studio is more successful than it’s ever been, recently moving into a 5000-square-foot building with over 100 dancers and winning the honor of Southern Maryland’s Best of the Best dance studio. When asked what it’s like to give back to the community that raised her, she says it’s a hard feeling to describe.

“TNT is more than a dance studio; we really value family and mental health. We want the kids to feel safe at the studio and for their families to feel the same,” Atkins said. “Being a kid is not the easiest thing. We really try to explain to [the dancers] how to be confident in your body, and

yourself, and know that they can talk to us about it.”

The studio is an opportunity for her two life passions to come full circle –dancing and mental health advocacy. In her day job, Atkins teaches a wellness planning group and a young adult women’s class related to healing from trauma. Balancing a full-time job, getting her master’s and owning TNT is not for the faint of heart – but it is worth it, she said.

“I love what I do; I love my job at the hospital; in July it will be four years. I love the studio. And while school has its ups and downs, I know the outcome will allow me to follow my

If you have a dream, work hard for it and nothing is impossible.

— Tyanna Atkins

dreams even more. My goal is to become licensed so I can affect more people in a positive light.”

Atkins feels strongly about helping others through some of the hardest times of their lives, and that’s what fuels her desire to keep pushing forward. When it comes to following your passions, her advice for all young women is to just go for it.

“If you have a dream, work hard for it and nothing is impossible. The worst thing that can happen is someone says no, but if you don’t try, you’ll never know. You’ll be happier to know you tried,” she said.

Ever humble but determined, continued.

“I don’t believe in failing. I think if you go for something and it doesn’t

work the first time, you take that as a learning lesson and keep trying until it does. I’m extremely honored to have been nominated and one of the individuals selected for Women to Watch. When I got the call, I was speechless. It was truly a moment for me to pause, step back, look at what I do and be appreciative of the support I’ve received from everyone – and be proud of myself, too.” W2W

SHARI MACKOVYAK

English teacher, alternative education and PBIS lead Huntingtown High School

HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE SELECTED AS A WOMAN TO WATCH?

It is an incredible honor. There are so many people doing great work for our community. To think that someone believes I’m worthy to be among them is truly humbling.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO GO INTO TEACHING?

I’ve always been a teacher at heart. My grandmother and mother were both educators. I’ve been drawn to working with others since I can remember (teacher’s helper was my favorite!). I started more formally as a freshman in high school with coaching and mentoring elementary students. There is something about working intentionally alongside someone, guiding their progress to a goal, and being an integral part of them achieving that goal that is immeasurable and exhilarating. I love the challenge of that process.

WHAT IS A COMMON MISCONCEPTION ABOUT BEING A TEACHER?

Teachers are often seen as the opposition and lesser than. It’s the old adage, “Those that can’t, teach.” In reality, we are highly educated, highly skilled and trained professionals. And, that we undergo those years and years of on-going education and training to hone our craft of strategies to help students learn, grow, and progress. We aren’t the opposition to a parent or child; we are all working toward the same goal as a team. And the best teachers make that look easy.

WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING PART OF BEING A TEACHER AND MENTOR?

There is a tie here. First: seeing a student finally get it. After weeks, months, or years of work and practice, to see someone achieve the goal, the skill, the knowledge. There is nothing like it. Nothing compares to the smile of satisfaction on that kid’s face. Especially when they may have failed at that task before, but this time, with my help and their perseverance, they made it.

Second: when students come back to tell me how they’re doing now, what they’re achieving now. We don’t get that news very often. But, again, there’s something extraordinary about that relationship that was forged under the pressures of high school and they feel connected enough to keep in touch after they graduate. That’s really special. I cherish it.

WHAT IS A GOAL YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE, EITHER IN TEACHING OR IN YOUR PERSONAL LIFE?

A goal I continue to pursue is to grow in my craft. I’m always looking to learn and hone my skills. I also want to continue to find opportunities to work with other teachers. I love mentoring new teachers and teachers of writing, helping with problem solving and collaborating on best practices. If I can aid a new teacher in getting started farther ahead than I was 21 years ago, that should translate exponentially for students.

There’s something extaordinary about that was forged under the pressures of high school.

Photo courtsey of Shari Mackovyak

KATHY MCKAY

staff and members throughout the year to ensure our local food pantries are stocked. We have worked for multiple years with the Sleep in Heavenly Peace organization that provides beds to ensure kids don’t have to sleep on the floor.

We are proud supporters of the Southern Maryland Community Resources organization that helps bridge the gap for individuals with developmental differences. Our studios also regularly donate fitness classes and memberships to community fundraisers to help spread the benefits of wellness.

Being able to give back to community organizations that work in support of the people and pets of Southern Maryland means the world to me and to my staff.

WHAT ARE YOUR KEY PHILOSOPHIES IN BUSINESS OWNERSHIP?

My philosophies in running my businesses revolve around people and products. The people who are the heartbeat of our businesses are our staff and our members. We work very hard on ensuring our staff is trained, empowered and enjoy the work they do every day.

HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE SELECTED AS A WOMAN TO WATCH?

There are so many accomplished women in our Southern Maryland community. I was surprised, honored and grateful to be recognized this year. It is very fulfilling to share my love of fitness and to watch others flourish on their own wellness journeys.

IN WHAT WAYS ARE YOU INVOLVED IN THE COMMUNITY AND WHAT DOES THAT MEAN TO YOU?

I am fortunate to be able to utilize our businesses to connect with and support the Southern Maryland community. We run multiple food drives with our

As a business owner, I strive to offer them a work environment they are not only proud to be part of but also offers them more than just a job. We want our team to focus on ensuring our members are enjoying their workout experiences and achieving their goals and they can’t do that if they don’t enjoy their work.

Having a product you believe in makes all the difference. The products we offer at the core of our business are our fitness classes. Our team creates and delivers experiences that are efficient, enjoyable, challenging and enable our members to meet their goals.

Co-owner Club Pilates SOMD and Row House SOMD

Photo courtsey of Kathy McKay

WHAT SETS PILATES AND ROWING WORKOUTS APART, AND WHY DO YOU RECOMMEND THEM?

Our Club Pilates SOMD studio offers low-impact, full-body reformer Pilates-based workouts with a variety of classes that challenge the mind as well as the body. A consistent Pilates practice improves your posture, strengthens your core, corrects muscle imbalances and is something that almost anyone can practice.

We have members who have had chronic back pain or have not been able to touch their toes for 15 years. After a few months of consistent classes, their pain is gone and they are able to do that simple task again.

Rowing is the ultimate all-in-one, low-impact, cardio-enhancing, full-body workout. It is a great cardio complement to the non-cardio aspects of

Pilates. Our Row House SOMD studio offers fun, high-energy, music-driven group fitness classes that combine rowing intervals with floor-based strength exercises for all fitness levels.

We recommend both workouts because they offer effective ways to develop and live a healthy lifestyle. They both are low-impact fitness options that any body type can do and through regular practice can see amazing results.

WHAT IS A GOAL YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE, EITHER IN BUSINESS OR IN YOUR PERSONAL LIFE?

My goal is to grow awareness of Pilates and rowing through our membership base. This allows me to continue to offer the community of Southern Maryland a way to enjoy two amazing, results driven workout options that further enable healthy lifestyles.

I also personally have a passion for learning new things and want to mature as a strong, confident woman able to give more time to her own self growth, to caring for family and mentoring others.

Having a product you believe in makes all the difference.

Photo courtsey of Kathy McKay

KELLY ROBERTSON-SLAGLE

Director of Economic Development Charles County

What do I love most? I love that I get to play an important role in encouraging this synergy of educating our local businesses, helping them navigate the challenges (good or bad,) and coordinating the best possible resources for them to move ahead and be successful. The best part — I get to do this in the community that I grew up in. I am also able to provide a unique perspective, growing up in a local family business, I got to see and experience firsthand both the rewards and the challenges that pop up daily.

HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE SELECTED AS A WOMAN TO WATCH?

What a special and humbling surprise it was to receive the news. It is a real privilege to get to support and work alongside local businesses and organizations in my own community. I am honored and grateful that someone thought to nominate me and to be selected as one of the top nominees amid such an incredible and inspiring group of women around Southern Maryland means so much.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART ABOUT YOUR JOB IN CHARLES COUNTY?

As I close out my first year and a half as the Director of Economic Development in Charles County (and my 26th year in the industry), I can confidently say that Charles County is becoming more and more of a collaborative place for businesses to locate and thrive. The entrepreneurial ecosystem we are building is fueled by clever people who share insights, connections and resources.

One thing I know for sure — great things happen when businesses can tap into the programs and people standing by, ready to serve and help them succeed and prosper.

HOW DO YOU HELP SHAPE THE COMMUNITY?

Great question! I believe a truly vibrant economy is the result of deliberate choices and actions. All communities, big and small, need a person or an organization that wakes up every day charged with improving the health of the local economy. In Charles County, that organization is the Department of Economic Development. Our team of economic developers have a code of ethics, profession-specific education and training, and professional certifications.

How do we do it?

• By bringing appropriate new businesses in and promoting our community as a location for economic activity.

• By helping existing local businesses solve problems that would cause them to fail, close, or move away.

Photo by Val Nyce

• By working with resource partners to prepare residents for available careers, connect businesses to skilled workers, and build the pipeline of future workers in the community.

• By helping local businesses, entrepreneurs and new firms start up and access the resources they need to succeed.

• By working alongside community partner organizations to help improve our community’s quality of life.

Positive economic development makes a big difference in our local community!

• Employer payroll flows through the local economy, supporting retailers, restaurants and service providers.

• An expanded and diversified tax base lowers tax rates for our residents.

• Growing more and better jobs gives residents dignity, choice, and the means to support themselves and their families.

• Community improvements countywide create vibrant places where people want to live, work and play.

HOW CAN THE COMMUNITY GET INVOLVED WITH YOU AND YOUR TEAM IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF CHARLES COUNTY?

I encourage everyone to reach out and connect with the Charles County Economic Development Department Team and find out more about the services that we provide. Please tell your friends, neighbors, and colleagues about us as well.

We offer variety of ways to connect with us: Our www.MeetCharlesCounty.com website contains the latest news and information to assist growing businesses. There is also a Find a Property page to search current real estate options or create custom data reports and a Business Support section for

information and resources. In addition, residents and business owners can receive business news and upcoming event information by joining our e-newsletter list. Email us at info@MeetCharlesCounty.com to be added.

See Charles County Economic Development News as it happens by following us on social media: Facebook, @meetcharlescounty.com; LinkedIn, Charles County Economic Development Department; and Twitter, @MeetCharlesCo.

WHAT ARE SOME GOALS YOU HAVE PERSONALLY OR PROFESSIONALLY FOR THE COMMUNITY?

Personally, I am a big believer in the power of mentorship. As a young, female professional starting out in the Economic Development Industry in the late 90s, I was extremely fortunate to connect with a handful of mentors that took me under their wing and helped with advice, career planning, insights and perspectives when I needed it most. I remain extremely thankful for the dedication and time they invested with me.

Fast-forward 25+ years and I am now in the position to pay it forward with the next generation of young professionals. I believe the rewards of a mentoring relationship are reaped by both parties — I’m passing along valuable information and getting the fulfillment of helping an aspiring leader grow in their professional career. I remain committed to looking for opportunities to give back to my community through mentorship W2W

I get to do this in the community that I grew up in.

MEGAN VAUGHAN

HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE SELECTED AS A WOMAN TO WATCH?

It is truly humbling and honoring to be selected as a woman to watch in Southern Maryland. I absolutely love getting to connect with people — our guests, our incredible staff, farmers who we work with, and our community, so it feels amazing to be recognized by those same people. Thank you!

WHY CHEESE?

Cheese is such an amazing food and is truly so much fun. I’ve always felt inspired by how important both the animal and the cheesemaker are in producing delicious and interesting cheese. Without

great milk, you don’t have great cheese. Without a skilled cheesemaker who doesn’t utilize their knowledge of the great milk to manipulate the process, you’d only have a handful of styles of cheese. By utilizing the cheese making process, we’re able to have a wide selection of cheeses that are all so unique and incredibly delicious.

HOW DOES ONE BECOME A PURVEYOR OF FINE CHEESES?

I’ve worked with cheese for 20 years. Over that time, I got to know the people behind some great American cheese — their stories, their families, their passions and what they love about what they do.

Co-owner Vaughan Cheese Counter & Bar

Photo by Irene Magafan

I wanted to find a way to connect the passionate farmers with consumers who would fall in love with their cheeses. By continuing to build on relationships I had developed over my time working in restaurants, I curated a selection of 75-95 cheeses that vary with the seasons and truly represent the heartbeat of the American artisan cheesemaker.

PROFILE

WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST REWARDING PART ABOUT OWNING A UNIQUE BUSINESS IN CALVERT COUNTY? HOW HAS THE COMMUNITY RESPONDED?

The community has truly been the absolute best part about opening and owning Vaughan Cheese. It’s been incredible to get to know the people who live here while becoming a destination for people from outside of the county. Our customers are so kind, considerate and excited to learn about what we do and it feels so amazing to get to know them personally as friends and as a place for them to come together and break bread.

WHAT IS A GOAL YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE, EITHER IN BUSINESS OR IN YOUR PERSONAL LIFE?

Vaughan Cheese wouldn’t exist without its people. Both the people who work with us and the people who make the products we sell. We would love to continue finding awesome local farms to support while creating our own custom cheese and would be so happy to see one of our team attend and take home an individual medal at a World Cheese Championship competition.

Our customers are so kind, considerate and excited to learn about what we do

CONGRATULATIONS

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THEWOMEN TO WATCH 2023,AND ESPECIALLY TO THEM-NCPPC, DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION, PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY HISTORIC RENTAL STAFF.

Let s elp you celebrate our next milestone e ent at one of o r Historic Venues of Prince George’s. NO BOOKING FO FALL 2023 AND SP ING 2024. isit pgparks.com for ore information.