Southern Maryland Woman - July/August 2021

JUL/AUG 2021

SOUTHERNMARYLANDWOMAN.COM

COMPLIMENTARY 2021 FESTIVAL CHAIR

KRISTIN KAUFFMAN

BALTIMORE’S

FELLS POINT

ALL GROWN UP

5th Annual DRAGON BOAT

FESTIVAL AUGUST 21, 2021 Sponsored By

HOW TO FOSTER EMOTIONAL HEALING FOR

KIDS & TEENS

ESTATE PLANNING

FOR SINGLES

ARE YOU PREPARED?

PHOTO BY BETH GRAEME PHOTOGRAPHY

Partner with us to get back to the activities you love.

It’s easy to see our friendly experts at MedStar Orthopaedic Institute in Leonardtown. We’ve expanded our practice and our ability to better meet your needs.

With special training in sports medicine, joint replacement, and shoulder and elbow surgery, our surgeons at MedStar Orthopaedic Institute in Leonardtown are ready to help you get back to living your life and the activities you enjoy.

Whether it’s a sudden injury or the aches and pains of aging, our team partners with you to find solutions that make sense for you.

For more information or to request an appointment, visit MedStarStMarys.org/ OrthoExperts or call 240-847-6734.

Come see us at our new location!

MedStar Orthopaedic Institute in Leonardtown 23503 Hollywood Road Suite 101 Leonardtown, Maryland

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MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center’s new front entrance and emergency department.

Our hospital recently completed its exciting expansion and renovation project—the largest in our more-than-40-year history. MedStar Southern Maryland has a state-of-theart emergency department (ED) that provides our community with the best care, as well as a beautiful, new front entrance.

Our new ED now offers: • A total of 40 ED treatment rooms— almost 50 percent more than before • 18,000 more square feet of space in the ED, for a total of 70,000 square feet • Designated space for behavioral health patients • An enhanced, spacious waiting room • Easier access for EMS personnel • A separate area for patients who may have been exposed to pathogens (coming August 2021) We also have a new front entrance with a 24-hour café and brand new gift shop for patients and visitors.

For more information or to view a video tour of our new emergency department and front entrance, visit MedStarSouthernMaryland.org/Emergency.

ON THE COVER

JUL/A UG 20 21

SOUTHE RNMA RYLAND WOMA N.COM

2021 FE STIV

KRIS AL CHAIR KAUFTFIN MAN

COMPL IMENTA RY

BALTIM

5th An nu D

al

RAGO

FESTINVB O AT AL AUGU ST 21 Sponso , 2021 red By

ORE’S

FELLS P ALL GR OINT OW N UP

HOW TO FO EMOTIOSTER N HEALINAL G FOR

A Community Publication Proudly Inspiring, Educating & Connecting Southern Maryland Women Since 2007.

KIDS TEENS&

ESTATE

FOR SI PLANNING ARE YO NGLES U PR

Publisher Oda Solms

EPARED ?

PHOTO BY BETH GR PHOTOG AEME RAPHY

Editor Rachel Lytle Let race day commence! The Solomons Dragon Boat Festival will celebrate its fifth year raising money and awareness for individuals with developmental disabilities throughout Southern Maryland. Thanks to major sponsor Cedar Point Federal Credit Union (CPFCU), the annual event in August is hosted each year

by Southern Maryland Community Resources (SMCR), a local non-profit helping those with special needs. Kristin Kauffman, CPFCU Chief Marketing Officer, SMCR Board Member, and this year’s festival chair, shares the story of this fun, unique tradition – and how to participate! Flip to page 13.

IN THIS ISSUE 9 16 20 22 27

Emotional Healing for Kids & Teens

Graphic Design Dave Schindler Dana Foody Photography Beth Graeme Photography Distribution Christian Solms Carlisa Kent John Cook Every issue produced in loving memory of Melissa Solms-Baruth

SOUTHERN MARYLAND WOMAN MAGAZINE PO Box 1656,Leonardtown, MD 20650 301.904.3366

Maryland’s Young Women Leader Honoree Esha Ahmad Post-Pandemic Finances – Are You Ready?

Read us online at SouthernMarylandWoman.com

The Short Years: A Parenting Column

To advertise

Visit Baltimore’s Fells Point

call 301-904-3366 or email us at oda@southernmarylandwoman.com today!

TELL YOUR STORY! Are you a local writer or leader interested in being featured?

Woman magazine is published bimonthly and is available free of charge, by mail, display stands in approved private and public establishments. Trademark laws and U.S. copyright laws protect Woman magazine. No part of this paper may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. This publication is published by the 15th day of every other month. Publication of advertising contained here does not necessarily constitute endorsement.

Send your stories, pitches and ideas to Content@southernmarylandwoman.com PROUD MEMBER OF

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health&wellness

By Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS

Toothbrushing Dos and Don’ts For as long as we’ve had teeth, society has told us that brushing twice a day, every day, is the best thing you can do for your oral health. But there’s far more to it than that. Hopefully, brushing your teeth is your best daily habit - but don’t let it be a bad one. Many people perform bad brushing techniques without being aware. Don’t fear, you can fix these bad habits easily if you know what they are.

Don’t brush too hard We didn’t think it was possible because it feels so good to get your teeth squeaky clean, however, too much pressure can actually damage your teeth and irritate your gums. It can even lead to scratches and infections.

It’s easier to remove plaque than you may think. Surprisingly loose, its only when plaque hardens to tartar that it becomes difficult to remove. Instead of trying to powerwash your teeth, gently massage them – think soft strokes and gentle motions starting at the gumline and swiping down. Be gentler than you think and use a soft brush.

Medium and hard brushes aren’t good for anyone’s mouth, but they are pretty good for house cleaning, so leave them under the sink where they belong!

Don’t ever, ever share your toothbrush

with your partner, and even if SURELY, this goes without you regularly kiss each other. It’s saying, but just in case: Do NOT gross to share a toothbrush. share a toothbrush. Even if you sometimes share food and drinks Why? Because when you share a toothbrush, you open your body up to all kinds of germs that it isn’t prepared to handle.

Toothbrushes can harbor the flu, pneumonia, HPV, and not to mention, the bacteria that causes tooth decay – streptococcus mutans – a scary name for a scary thing. Maybe you can’t bear to be separated from your partner, but trust us, this is the one exception you should make.

Don’t brush too quickly

189

The average American spends 45 seconds brushing their teeth. That’s less than half the recommended time. If you’re one of those people that’s “rushing the brushing,” you should know that when you do you’re leaving behind countless germs and bacteria that are damaging to your oral health.

Additionally, some of the ingredients in your toothpaste, like fluoride, need time to do their job. Fluoride isn’t going to help protect your enamel in only

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Ju ly/Au g u st 2 02 1 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com

45 seconds. Two full minutes of brushing is recommended for the optimum benefit. We all learned in the past year to wash our hands for 20 full seconds for maximum hand cleanliness.

They taught us to sing “Happy Birthday” twice. Guess what?

Only 12 “Happy Birthday” verses and your teeth will sparkle and shine.

Seeing your dentist regularly should always be at the top of your list in keeping up with your health and wellness. Catching tooth and gum problems early will always keep you smiling for many years to come.

Dr. Karl Smith has been in dental practice for more than 34 years.

He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of California, Los Angeles in 1981.

He retired from the US Air Force as a Lt. Col, in 1996. Dr. Smith has advanced education in the specialty of Periodontics with additional training in Sedation and Dental Implants. He is consistently voted TOP DENTIST by his peers and listed in several publications including Washingtonian Magazine.

health&wellness

By Megan E. Kersch, LCSW-C

Emotional Healing for Kids & Teens Parenting is definitely an active sport, and this pandemic has demonstrated to us all how you need an action plan in order to teach resiliency in your kid and teenager. Here are a few important tips to include: Get to know their true feelings. To do so, try asking open-ended questions when talking with your kid/ teen. Asking teenagers inquiring questions may help get conversations flowing, such as, “Can you tell me how I can best help you prepare for school next year?” Use a ‘worry jar’ in your home and offer solutions to worries you might find in there.

Put in a few examples of worries of your own and get their ideas on how to address these, too.

1

2

Adjust your expectations.

None of us are functioning

at our best right now. It takes time for the brain to heal.

We have all been through a collective trauma during this pandemic.

Exercise thankfulness.

Model this daily to your kid. Make lists of things you are grateful for. We sometimes think of ‘strong, resilient people’ as those who aren’t bothered by hard times. On the contrary, becoming resilient while facing huge stressors is a series of active, intentional choices in thought.

3

Encourage kids to spend 4 time with friends/positive relationships. For kids and teens, interacting, socializing, and playing/hanging out are critical to a healthy mind.

Feeling ashamed, lost, afraid, alone?

Reliving terrifying moments?

Wondering when the dreams will stop?

Promote time spent outdoors. Nature offers a quiet space that allows our minds to process emotions and find solutions. Time spent with animals and the outdoors is therapeutic for the brain; it is like actively meditating.

5

Look for silver linings.

Validate the challenges of this year, but also highlight that it’s the most difficult situations that teach us the most about ourselves. Talk with your kid/ teen about what you and they have learned through this year.

6

Talk about what changes have occurred. And more importantly, what we fo sngis tnereffid ynam era erehT yam ynam sthem. redrosid htlaeFor h latnem have all learnedsaroefrom b nac snoitcaer dna ,ezilaer ton yam .meht gnicneirepxe nosrep eht sa deirav example, cleaner environmental

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7

Let your kids see you time for yourself.

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who they remember helping them in some small or big way this year and take a moment to write a thank you note.

When you make a mistake, because we all will, apologize. Kids/teens learn how to apologize and express remorse, accountability, and a commitment to change and consider other’s feelings by watching us. It is reassuring to them that we are not perfect and do not expect them to be.

If you are struggling with lots of difficult emotions, make an appointment to speak with a therapist for support.

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Megan E. Kersch, LCSW-C has been providing therapy to children, adolescents, and families for almost 20 years.

She obtained her master’s degree in social work from University

Baltimore in 2002 of Maryland, C -W S C L and has worked as a consultant, kniht yeht fi od enoemos dluohs tahW outpatient grief ?pleh sdeen etherapist, no devol rieht nocounselor, itazilaer dna noitingocschool er ehT :nosilAsocial worker, eb nac pleh deen yam eno devol a taht tnaand tropmi ssupervisor. i tI .tlucfifid dna gnitnShe uad has provided secruoser eht no flesruoy etacude ot dncommunity a mlac niamer ot dna atraining era ruoy ni and advocacy meht hcaorppa uoy nehw etaredisnoc elbto a si eeducate noyreve toN .snremany cnoc ruoy foprofessionals eht fo enO .smelborp rieht ezingocer ot woabout nk uoy enoem os plemental h ot syaw tsebhealth needs the woh meht gniksa yb tsuj ylpmis eb yam gninetsil a meht reffo dna pleh nac uoy of individuals and communities. yb dna meht srewopme sihT .rae meht pleh nac ti ,troppus ruoy gnireffo Megan joined the team of Hope ni enola ton era yeht taht ezingocer reffo nac uoY .gnilaeh fo yenruoj rieht in yb and deen yehHealing t secruoser eht dPsychotherapy nfi pleh ot troppus dna srolesnuoc rof gnihcraes meMarch ht refer nac uof oY .ae2021 ra ruoy ni and spuorg is happy to , 1 1 2 g n i l l a c ( s n o i t p o t xe t / s e n i l s i s i r c o t to serve sisprovide irc lacol eht gnillcounseling a c r o 1 4 7 1 4 7 g n i t xe t )1211-535-014 ta rebmun eniltoh retnec in the St. a schildren a rebmun ruoy rand effo esrufamilies oc fo dna tsom fO .llew sa tuo hcaer ot rebmun leeMary’s f dna pleh deCounty en uoy fi ,ecnatarea. ropmi mrah ot ksir ta si eno devol ruoy taht .119 llac esaelp ,srehto ro sevlesmeht

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July/August 2021 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com

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7th annual

REGIONAL SUMMIT

Deep dive into your digital presence

Date: August 11, 2021 Time: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Register at calvertchamber.org Deadline to register: August 4, 2021 Sponsorship spaces are limited.

Location: The Hall at Huntingtown Cost: $65

Re DISCOVER LEONARDTOWN visitleonardtownmd.com visitstmarysmd.com

Are you looking for something fun to do this weekend? Come discover Leonardtown. This small Southern Maryland town is big on charm, adventure, and excitement. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for ways to spend a fun day in the sun, a social butterfly wanting to connect with friends, or a budding artist seeking a creative outlet, come ReDiscover all of this and more! Start your day at the new Leonardtown Welcome Center located in the Old Jail Museum to pick up a map and directory.

Adventure

Arts & Entertainment

Shops & Fine-Dining

Water sports • Boating slips Seaplane rides Recreation parks Butterfly walking trail Kid’s caterpillar corner

Art classes • Workshops Live music Galleries Historic landmarks Pop-up activities for all ages

Award-winning winery Specialty shops Restaurants, bars, and outdoor cafes One-of-a-kind indoor marketplace

health&wellness

By Kyle Webber

Getting Back to Normal with Taekwondo The recent pandemic has changed our lives in many ways, including turning our normal active routines into much more sedentary lives of seclusion and endless Zoom meetings. Our children have been isolated and reduced to “virtual” P.E. classes during their online distance learning. It has been an incredibly sad and difficult time from which we are finally emerging.

While we work to regain our normal lives, one of the best ways to improve our health and mental well-being is to engage in sports and fitness activities.

Sports and exercise have many proven benefits to our emotional wellness.

Exercise improves mental health in many ways. According to medical experts, when you exercise, your body releases

chemicals called endorphins.

These endorphins interact with the receptors in your brain, which reduce your perception of pain. Endorphins also trigger a positive feeling in the body. Exercise stimulates the body’s production of many other neurotransmitters like dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. These natural brain chemicals play an important part in regulating your mood.

Multiple studies show that physical exercise helps to relieve stress and improves brain function. Through exercise, the brain is stimulated into promoting the growth of new connections between cells in all areas of the brain.

Many people study Taekwondo because they appreciate the holistic approach

of martial arts. In addition to the physical benefits of exercise, the principles of Taekwondo teach us to have a strong mind and a positive attitude toward any task. If a student is dedicated and determined, they can strive to reach the heights of this official Olympic sport.

In martial arts, we teach that with a strong body comes a strong mind. As we train our bodies to run efficiently and expend energy in the correct manner, our mind functions better as well.

Taekwondo is a discipline for everyone. Students can begin at nearly any age. Often times, the parents of my students will begin studying Taekwondo once they see how much fun it can be.

The enthusiasm for Taekwondo is contagious!

At Black Belt Academy of Prince Frederick, in addition to Olympic Taekwondo, we have incorporated the latest trends in martial arts training.

We offer classes in Muay Thai (kickboxing), self-defense classes specifically for women, and our immensely popular Ninja training obstacle course for children. This challenging and fun training improves a child’s self-confidence, strength, conditioning, problem-solving,

flexibility, and coordination.

New students can begin classes at any time. Black Belt Academy of Prince Frederick offers a beginner’s program so new students can try Taekwondo for very little cost and no longterm commitment.

If you would like to learn more about the most popular martial arts program in the world, please email us at BlackBeltPF@gmail.com or stop by our Prince Frederick location at 285 Merrimac Court, Prince Frederick. Our phone number is 410-414-7530 and you can check out our website at: www.CalvertMartialArts.com.

Master Kyle Webber is began martial arts training under Master Kyu Shim at age 12. He developed an affinity for the Olympic sport of Taekwondo and achieved his first-degree black belt within three years. By 2005, Kyle had progressed to owning Black Belt Academy of Prince Frederick and in 2010 achieved the rank of Master Instructor (4th degree Black Belt). Kyle graduated from Great Mills High School in 2004 and obtained a degree in General Studies from College of Southern Maryland. He now lives happily in Lusby with his wife, Catherine and their six children.

July/August 2021 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com

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SIERRA CLUB MOTTO:

TO EXPLORE, ENJOY, AND PROTECT THE PLANET The Maryland Chapter of Sierra Club has more than 70,000 members and supporters and our local group in Southern Maryland always needs volunteers! Our organization is unique in that much of the work is done by volunteers, supported by a small number of paid staff for the whole state. We work together to protect the environment in Maryland, and we cannot do it without you. Please consider a gift of any size today.

“The Sierra Club Maryland Chapter is an inclusive and diverse organization that prioritizes both people and the planet. They have created a resilient community that is always looking for new ways to learn and grow, even during a pandemic. I will continue to support the Chapter; it is an honor to volunteer surrounded by so many powerful women.”

- Ashley Cobaugh, volunteer social media coordinator

GO TO SIERRACLUB.ORG/MARYLAND TO JOIN, RENEW, DONATE, VOLUNTEER AND CHECK OUT YOUR LOCAL SOUTHERN MARYLAND GROUP!

SOLOMONS

5 Annual th

DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL

ONE HUMAN FAMILY: RAISING MONEY AND AWARENESS FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DIFFERENCES THANKS TO MAJOR SPONSOR

E

arly in the morning, on what sometimes feels like the hottest day of the year, Solomons Island awakens to the sounds of friendly competition on the Patuxent River.

Tents pop up, camp chairs are set out, and spectators begin gathering on the riverwalk. As the sun begins to climb, the

dragon boat races commence!

The festival takes place over several parking lots with brightly colored team tents. The lawn of Our Lady Star of the Sea Church plays host to a vendor village full of craft and food vendors.

“My favorite thing about this event is watching Solomons Island come to life,” said Kristin Kauffman, the festival’s 2021 Chair.

The Solomons Dragon Boat Festival is now in its fifth season, put on each year by Southern Maryland Community Resources (SMCR). The festival’s origin begins with one woman’s passion for helping those with special needs, leading to the founding of SMCR. Bonnie Elward had a dream, and she was good at making dreams come true!

Elward began SMCR as a personal mission. “I had the joy of being able to pick my own board of directors, and it’s usually the other way around,” Elward said.

Once she had the key players in place, she immediately began creating events and opportunities for Southern Maryland residents with developmental differences. SMCR’s staple programs included bowling night, movie night and game night, as well as special events like dances and fashion shows.

“I knew we needed funding to support all of these programs, and I am an event planner at heart,” Elward said.

After witnessing the success of the dragon boat event in North Beach, Md, a team of good-hearted folks from Our Lady Star of the Sea Church got to work to bring a dragon boat fundraiser to Solomons on behalf of SMCR. July/August 2021 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com

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A DRAGON BOAT TEAM CONSISTS OF 16 PADDLERS AND A DRUMMER. ROWING CLASSES TEACH SYNCHRONIZATION AND LISTENING AS WELL AS CONDITIONING THE BODY TO PREPARE FOR RACE DAY. LEARNING TO WORK TOGETHER IS REALLY WHAT GETS A DRAGON BOAT ACROSS THE FINISH LINE! The Solomons Dragon Boat Festival had its inaugural races in 2016, with a large team of volunteers supporting Elward’s efforts.

After that first successful year, Elward set out on a mission to find a high dollar presenting sponsor. Where better to look than your local financial institution?

Elward approached Cedar Point Federal Credit Union’s Board of Directors, explaining SMCR’s important mission of inclusive opportunities for those with developmental disabilities. Immediately, the credit union jumped in to support with $8,000. Additionally, Cedar Point’s Chief Marketing Officer Kristin Kauffman joined the planning committee and SMCR board, assisting Elward and her team in 2017.

Together, Elward and Kauffman convinced the credit union to increase its sponsorship to $10,000 in 2018 and again in 2019.

“This partnership has become invaluable both for SMCR and for me at a personal level,” said Kauffman. “I have always had a passion for helping people with special needs. Even in middle school, I spent my lunch breaks volunteering in classrooms to help my classmates with developmental differences with math, spelling and building social skills.”

As the Solomons Dragon Boat Festival continued into its fourth successful year in 2019, Elward decided it was time to announce her retirement.

“Bonnie gave us a year to plan for her retirement,” said Kauffman. “We were so blessed she gave us so much time to make

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Ju ly/Au g u st 2 02 1 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com

sure the succession plan was in place.” SMCR had only existed with Elward at the helm, so the board had big shoes to fill.

Just as the global pandemic descended on Maryland, SMCR hired Therese Thiedeman of Charles County to manage its various programs and Sandra Norris of St. Mary’s County to focus on outreach. But as the pandemic began reshaping events, all of SMCR’s programs had to be rethought, and the 2020 Dragon Boat Festival was canceled.

Elward retired in the summer, and SMCR’s programs went virtual in the fall. At this point, however, the Solomons Dragon Boat Festival was without a chair, and SMCR board elections were approaching. So, armed with a passion for the work and event planning experience, Kauffman stepped up to chair both the organization and the festival in 2021.

“We updated our bylaws, and we built out our business plan,” Kauffman said. “And, of course, we got to work planning the 2021 festival!”

Kauffman previously co-chaired the Solomons Plein Air Festival alongside artist Carmen Gambrill, owner of Carmen’s Gallery in Solomons.

“The administration of the festival was a bear!” Kauffman explained. “We brought in artists from all over the world to paint in Solomons for a week.” No stranger to strategic execution, Kauffman also hosted several festivals in Pennsylvania, where she was raised.

“I may be heading up the festival now, but we have a mighty team of volunteers who make this event successful,” Kauffman emphasized. “As a leader, you need to play to your strengths and recognize that you have people to lean on for everything else. That’s what makes our event so strong.”

That, she says, and a good foundation to build on. Under Elward’s leadership, the festival grew and thrived for four years.

Kauffman believes that the festival will be bigger and better this year because of the solid foundation Elward left behind.

Plans for this year’s festival include a maximum of 33 teams paddling the Patuxent for bragging rights. The festival has new teams this year from businesses like Thrivent Financial, Rowhouse SoMD, High Tide Games and Community Bank of the Chesapeake. The roster also includes veteran teams from businesses like AMEWAS, Century 21, Personalized Therapy, Patuxent Presbyterian Church, Kingfishers and major sponsor Cedar Point Federal Credit Union.

“My HOA even decided to get in on the action and sponsor a team,” Kauffman laughed. She indicated that the festival has also been contacted by several club teams from other states. “This is a big step for us because we can bring more tourism to Solomons Island and show our partners in Calvert County how much our festival contributes to economic development in the area.”

“I MAY BE HEADING UP THE FESTIVAL NOW, BUT WE HAVE A MIGHTY

TEAM OF VOLUNTEERS WHO MAKE THIS EVENT SUCCESSFUL.”

“IT IS FUN TO BE THE DRUMMER BECAUSE YOU GET TO BE THE BOSS.”

Kristin Kauffman, Cedar Point Federal Credit Union Chief Marketing Officer, 2021 Solomons Dragon Boat Festival Chair, and SMCR Board Member.

The festival recently formed a partnership with Rowhouse SoMD in St. Mary’s County. “When Rowhouse heard about the work our festival does for community members with special needs, they approached us with an idea,” Kauffman said.

The partnership allows paddling teams the opportunity to take group rowing classes at the Rowhouse gym. These classes teach synchronization and listening as well as conditioning the body to prepare for race day. Learning to work together is really what gets a dragon boat across the finish line!

A dragon boat team consists of 16 paddlers and a drummer.

“It is fun to be the drummer because you get to be the boss,” Kauffman joked.

Each team paddles in two qualifying heats and one final race for ranking placement. The top three teams are recognized in a small awards ceremony following the races. Most teams like to dress according to a theme. The festival has seen Minions, Trolls, Night Furies, pirates, and all sorts of other fun outfits through the years.

“We are always looking to form new partnerships, take in new sponsorships and, of course, sign up new teams to paddle,” Kauffman said with a smile.

The Solomons Dragon Boat Festival will accept new team registrations through late July, with the event itself on August 21, 2021. Teams can register at somdcr.org/registration.

Other sponsorship opportunities also exist for businesses that aren’t able to physically paddle.

Volunteers, sponsors, teams, and photographers are welcome to join the Solomons Dragon Boat Festival crew.

Contact the festival by email at info@somdcr.org. Learn more about the Solomons Dragon Boat Festival at SolomonsDragonBoatFestival.com and follow the event on Facebook and Instagram. Paddles up!

July/August 2021 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com

15

pa ion profile

a h s E d a m Ah

A recent graduate of Northern High School, Esha Ahmad is a Muslim, Pakistani-Italian-American, immigrant, philomath with a love for neuroscience and cultural promotion, a Spanish music and Korean drama enthusiast, community service leader and social advocate.

On you passion TELL US ABOUT YOUR PASSION FOR ACADEMICS AND SOCIAL INCLUSIVITY: School has always been my safe space. Growing up abroad, I struggled to fit in due to language barriers and cultural differences. In school, I had no barriers. I enjoyed observing the world around me and making sense of matters. I spent hours reading and fell in love with the act of learning every day. Even when I moved to the U.S., my teachers recognized my devotion to academics, and I was soon placed in honor classes. Now, I keep fueling my passion and nurturing my curiosity. I have excelled during my high school years with a GPA of 4.0+ and a ranking in the top 10.

This is only the beginning of my academic career, though.

I look forward to a lifetime of learning as I pursue medicine.

Aside from academics, I have been a vocal advocate for social inclusivity. As a part of various minority groups, I have come to realize the social disparities present. Thus, I made sure to become a point of

16

Ju ly/Au g u st 2 02 1 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com

contact for many. From giving orientations to new students, mentoring freshmen with their transition, to bringing attention to lack of cultural understanding to staff members, I have enjoyed being the voice for many. At some point, I was the one who didn’t have the courage to speak up, and I always strive to be the advocate for the ones who need it.

On your motivation

WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO BECOME A STUDENT LEADER? My leadership story began accidentally. I have always been a very active student in the classroom and enjoyed taking charge to lead projects. Little did I know that this quality would lead me to serve in numerous positions such as Student Government Association President, Capital District Key Club Editor, Future Doctors of America Vice President, and more. But it extends beyond a formal title – it is a philosophy I have adopted. I embraced servant leadership, and my goal has always

been to empower the people around me, seeking out for the benefit of all. May that be community needs or student concerns, I have geared my leadership around the people next to me, and continuously adjusted to fit their needs.

“I HOPE THE NEXT GENERATION DOES NOT SHY AWAY FROM EMOTIONS AND BEING VULNERABLE. WE EACH FACE HARDSHIPS, AND THERE IS NOTHING STRONGER THAN ACKNOWLEDGING IT.”

On being honored

THE MARYLAND COMMISSION FOR WOMEN RECENTLY HONORED YOU AT THE MARYLAND YOUNG WOMEN LEADERS AWARDS - WHAT HAS THIS EXPERIENCE BEEN LIKE? Absolutely crazy and rewarding! I remember when Mrs. Oldham, my counselor, first approached me about it. Apparently, the staff was asked for recommendations, and I was unanimously nominated to represent Northern High! It was truly an honor for me to be thought of so highly by faculty and had no idea that it would extend beyond that. To be honored with the 2021 Maryland Young Women Leader award was surreal. I kept thinking back to the little 12-year-old that had just immigrated, and who would have never believed the fact that she would come to be recognized throughout the state. The whole community was overjoyed with the news, and it just felt like a fever-dream.

C

On lessons learned

M

Y

ADVICE TO OTHER YOUNG, FIRST-GENERATION IMMIGRANT WOMEN FINDING THEIR WAY IN AMERICA:

CM

MY

Always remember you are braver than you credit yourself for. One fun fact about me is that I am a big crier. I get emotional easily and before I know it, salty tears are travelling down my cheeks. But coming to a country with no support and being part of minority groups can be a true challenge. It is easy to feel vulnerable and weak; to get lost in the process of navigating ourselves, our lives, and our community, or to have off days when everything seems to disfavor us. You will get through it because you are so much braver than you think. Find a good support system and stay focused and motivated on your goals. Celebrate each accomplishment, even the smallest one.

Take risks and go out of your comfort zone. Before you know it, you will look back and realize you made it. Your authentic, imperfect self can accomplish anything you want, so be your biggest cheerleader!

CY

CMY

K

On what’s next

WHAT DO YOU HOPE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION AND WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS? My wish for the future generation is to embrace vulnerability and compassion. It is so easy to get caught up in our own worlds and ambitions, but they mean nothing if we aren’t all striving to better our community and help those around us. There is also a need for a cultural reset. I hope the next generation does not shy away from emotions and being vulnerable. We each face hardships, and there is nothing stronger than acknowledging it. As for me, I hope to live each day with these values in mind as I pursue pre-med at Harvard University in the fall. Here is to more dreams!

7

business

By Tracie Daniels

Looking Back to Move Forward There’s a saying that you can’t move forward if you’re looking in the past. While I do not take issue with that statement, I understand that focusing ONLY on the past may impede progress of moving forward. In order for us to fully understand how to move forward, we must consider how we arrived at our current point, which requires reflecting on the past. When we reflect on the past, we are looking for cues and signs to avoid in the future. The past allows us to plan effectively and realistically for the future.

June and July are a time of year where we are stuck in the middle. Half the year has passed, yet much lies ahead. As

organizations start to plan for the upcoming months, there is a need to also evaluate what has been accomplished up to this point. Typically, employee performance evaluations occur around the end of the year, so the middle of the summer presents an opportunity for employees to evaluate their successes and failures in order to make adjustments.

It’s important to note that employees should be assessing their performance all year and not just at the end of the year or during the one time when performance reviews are conducted. Employees can get ahead of the game by making note of their accomplishments

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and setbacks as they happen.

This allows for a much more planned and strategic performance conversation during the review period.

Organizations also take the mid-year point to evaluate their progress against the yearly plan and identify where changes can be made. One critical item that organizations may be grappling with during this mid-year point is “reimagining how work gets done.”

64%

of employees prefer a hybrid return to work policy As many organizations navigated the uncertainties of last year, one thing has been made clearly obvious: most people can work successfully without the traditional office.

In fact, a survey conducted

by Blind, an app that provides a platform for anonymous career-related posts, revealed that 64% of employees prefer a hybrid return to work policy.

What’s even more alarming, employees are leaving their current organization in pursuit of organizations that are willing to be more flexible.

In addition to considering how and where we work, organizations must continue to press forward in their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Issues around DEI continue to evolve globally, and companies are learning how to address those concerns. It should be noted that DEI is not limited to just employees of an organization, but also

involve your customers, vendors, community, and more.

The stakes are high with DEI and many stakeholders are evaluating organizations against their DEI initiatives. Ultimately, if DEI is overlooked within your organization, your business will be negatively impacted.

While every business has its own objectives, let’s not forget those who allow us to be in business, our workforce and shareholders.

As you continue with your plans – or create new plans – ensure that the people who support you feel supported, too.

Tracie Daniels has more than 20 years of experience as a leader in the human capital management field. She has worked in various sectors including government, financial services, non-profit, telecommunications, and legal services. Mrs. Daniels has managed several high-profile projects including spearheading the education and awareness initiatives for the Obama Administration’s National Making Home Affordable Program of 2009 – 2015. Mrs. Daniels is the President of Synergy Consulting, a human capital management consulting firm, which specializes in strategic planning and executive management, diversity and inclusion, organizational assessment and design, performance management, and leadership development consulting. Mrs. Daniels holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in counseling. Mrs. Daniels has served as board member for several non-profit organizations.

July/August 2021 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com

19

finances

By Carlisa Kent

Post Pandemic Finances – Are You Ready?

After a year of “isolation” you may be ready to get out and start spending… but slow down, not so fast. Although this past year has taught some of us about discretionary spending and we have added to our emergency saving fund, it is not time to make up for lost “spending.”

Due to the economic stimulus checks in March, American spending surged. However, according to Northwestern Mutual, it stalled again in April.

May and June have brought back some stability and we are looking ahead to the summer (and beyond) as the economy recovers and we get back to “normal.”

Some people are feeling like they want to spend their

money in ways that they enjoy RIGHT NOW, because as we have learned, tomorrow is not promised. Meanwhile, others plan on staying the course and continue with wealth-building and saving for the future because tomorrow can change in the blink of an eye. But before we forget about the financial lessons learned this past year, let’s pause to reflect.

TAKE STOCK Analyze your change in expenses during these past 15 months. Look at what you have done without and decide if you need to add it back to your budget. How many things that you thought you could not live without have you been living without?

Contact Me Today to Change Your Tomorrow Carlisa Kent | 240-528-1743 linktr.ee/Carlisacares Zoom Appointments Available

• Create a starter emergency fund • Pay off all debt • Save 3-6 months of household expenses • Invest 15% of your household income • Begin a college fund for kids CARLISA KENT Financial Coach • Pay off your home early

20

Ju ly/Au g u st 2 02 1 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com

BUDGET, BUDGET, BUDGET Do not forget to budget. Write down what income you are bringing in and any expenses that are going out. Plan for annual events such as birthdays, holidays, and vacations and build that into your monthly budget. Are you planning on returning to dinning out or movie night at the theater?

Add these things back into your budget. A budget is meant to guide you through the month, so you are prepared for whatever may be coming.

BUILD YOUR EMERGENCY FUND If we have learned nothing else, we now know that emergencies can happen. It is a good time to make sure you have three to six months of expenses saved before you go on that spending spree. The stimulus checks were a great way to boost the economy, but it was also a great plan to start building your emergency fund.

REVERSE ANY COVID-RELATED CHANGES If you had to reduce the amount you were paying in your debt snowball during the pandemic, start going back to your prepandemic plan. Attack that student loan and credit card debt with gazelle intensity.

TAKE A DAY Remember… what you think

you need today, may only be a want tomorrow. So, slow down and think about what you are spending. Make sure it is a need and not only a want, although wants are okay in moderation.

BEWARE OF RISING PRICES Prices are rising due to the recent spikes in inflation, so shop around. Comparison shop and, again, make sure you are spending on needs.

Yes, we are getting back to normal, so let your new normal reflect the lessons learned this past year. We hope never to relive 2020, but we will never be unprepared for it. Contact me today and set up a time to go over your plan and how to best execute it. The best plans are the ones we put into motion. My calendar link can be found at https://linktr.ee/Carlisacares.

Carlisa Kent is a Ramsey financial coach, helping individuals to conquer their finances in a smart and sustainable way. She is a graduate of Trinity College, Washington D.C., and a proud mother of four. Having lived through a financial crisis of her own, Carlisa learned to save for her future before the emergency hit.

This impactful experience inspired her to help others prepare for the unknown and share her successes.

law

By Attorney Laura T. Curry

Do I Need an Estate Plan If I am Single?

There is no question that estate planning is often talked about in terms of planning for married couples and families.

However, in many ways, estate planning for the single person is more complex than for a married couple. For many married couples, the spouse is the person they trust to make decisions about the disposal of assets and management of medical and financial decisions if they become incapacitated.

Without a spouse, it is even more important that a single person have a complete estate plan to plan for their incapacity and death.

It is important for a single person to have a will or trust so you can name the person or entity you trust to carry out

your wishes. The estate plan will also allow you to name your beneficiaries. Your beneficiaries are the individuals or entities you want to inherit your estate upon your death. Without a legal estate plan, the state will decide the succession laws instead.

Without a spouse, the state is likely to disburse your estate to any surviving children, parents, and siblings.

It is also important to evaluate whether your estate may be subject to estate taxes. Married couples can leave the surviving spouse their joint assets without having to pay estate tax and are able to take advantage of estate tax planning at the death of the first deceased spouse. A single person does not have this option, but they may be able to

create separate types of trusts that reduce their taxable estate at death. A single person may also want to explore charitable giving at death in order to reduce their taxable estate and gifting during lifetime. As such, it is important for a single person to explore estate tax issues if they believe they may have a taxable estate at death.

It is important for a single person to have a will or trust so you can name the person or entity you trust to carry out your wishes.

Planning for disability is critical for a single person as well. A single person should have a living will which documents your wishes about end-of-life medical care. This document allows you to choose the level of treatment you receive if you are in a persistent vegetative state, end-stage condition, or terminal condition. Along with a living will, a single person should also have a durable medical power of attorney. The medical power of attorney appoints a healthcare agent to make decisions for you at any point if you are not able to make your own.

These are just a few of the documents and issues a single person should think about when creating their estate plan. If you are single and would like to discuss how to plan for your incapacity and death, please contact us at Sinclair Prosser Gasior for an appointment today.

Laura T. Curry first became interested in estates and trusts when practicing as a family law attorney at the start of her career.

It was quickly apparent to Laura that each family had their own dynamics which shaped their goals and desired outcome. She focuses her practice on estate planning, incapacity planning, and elder law issues. Laura was admitted to the Maryland Bar in 2009, and is a member of the Maryland State Bar Association. She is also a member of the Women’s Bar Association and a member of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys.

Laura is dedicated to educating the public on the estate planning choices they can make to provide both financial and emotional security for their families and loved ones. She is currently offering a popular Wills and Trusts seminar online so you can watch from the safety of your own home. To view the details and register for an upcoming webinar, please visit: www.spgasior.com/seminars

July/August 2021 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com

21

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Whether the day’s challenges include hungry children, broken sandal straps or dry lips, I’m sure I’ve got something for that.

BY MEGAN JOHNSON

T

he realization came slowly . . . much like the filling of my oversized handbag.

I remember the “before” times: the tiny, trendy purses large enough for a pack of Tic Tacs and a folded $20 bill. Some had dainty straps — perfect for slipping over a wrist that wasn’t also pushing an applesauce-dotted stroller. Others featured designer logos or delicate fabrics.

Sure, those bags are adorable, but tell me: are they fruit punch-resistant?

Yes, friends, I’m now all about the practical Mom Bag. Since welcoming my first child in 2015, I’ve taken to lugging around an inexpensive satchel that could double as a cannonball. Peeking into my current purse — something my husband is fearful to ever do, by the way — would reveal stray seashells, baby wipes, foam and liquid hand sanitizer, coffeeshop cards with two of 10 punches, a million hair ties, several types of fruit snacks and granola bars, masks for every season and face in my household, a rainbow Slinky, thick

and fine-point Sharpies, keys to unknown houses and long-surrendered mailboxes, and some Tylenol.

And that’s the side pocket.

I keep telling myself that I need to travel lighter — but the universe has an infuriating way of making me regret a deep clean immediately. I swear, I’ve never needed anything more than the day after I finally remove random safety pins, fashion tape or a stain remover pen. I’m basically begging for a wardrobe malfunction... and it’s always right on cue.

My mother’s unofficial motto is, “Hope for the best, pack for the worst,” so my anxiety is 100% all-natural. If you’ve ever joined us at a bridal or baby shower, you’ve likely been taken down during, “What’s In Your Handbag?” — the classic party game in which you earn points for each unusual item you happen to have on your person.

When mom walks in, trust me: just go back to the Buffalo chicken dip.

Now in my thirties with two kids in tow, I understand the whys of moms’ bulging bags so much better. Suddenly,

I’m the one responsible for bandages and Benadryl, dental floss and Desitin. But the truth is, when my own mother is around, I still depend on her packs of tissues, printed driving directions, and peanut M&Ms when someone (OK, usually me) feels their blood sugar dip too low.

The Mom Bag? It’s really love in action.

And so, the tradition continues.

Whether the day’s challenges include hungry children, broken sandal straps or dry lips, I’m sure I’ve got something for that. If you need a sheet of puppy stickers, even, you know where to find me.

Just, you know, give me a few minutes to find it.

Megan Johnson could lay off the coffee, but she’s no quitter. Author of the long-running “Right, Meg?” column in Southern Maryland Newspapers, she is a 30-something marketing and communications professional who lives with her husband, son and daughter near Waldorf. Follow her on Instagram at @writemeg.

July/August 2021 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com

23

summer IN

Summer has arrived in Southern Maryland with its hot days and humid nights. It’s the perfect time to try something new, use your imagination and keep your brain sharp while exploring our area.

1 Don’t forget about the many local museums for other places to go escape the summer sun. These museums offer an opportunity to learn about Southern Maryland, our history and our environment: St. Clement’s Island Museum Piney Point Lighthouse The Old Jail Museum Drayden African American Schoolhouse Patuxent River Naval Air Museum Calvert Marine Museum Bayside History Museum

24

SOUTHERN MARYLAND

Do your kids have energy to burn? Check out Imaginarium Indoor Playspace in Solomons. The Imaginarium is an interactive indoor play space where your child’s imagination can come alive as they climb aboard the pirate ship or defend the castle. This amazing place was designed by a teacher with your child in mind. My

BY MEGAN ALLEN

kids love building forts out of the foam blocks and painting in the craft area. The Imaginarium is opened multiple days a week with open play along with classes, pop-up events and camps being offered throughout the summer. Find them on Facebook @PLAYatImaginarium or visit their website imaginariumplay.com for up-to-date hours and class information.

2 Another one of our kids’ favorite summer activities is stand up paddle boarding. They love taking the kids SUP classes offered at root SUP & Fitness in Leonardtown at the Wharf. Being out on the water is so magical this time of the year. Plus, jumping off your board is a quick and fun way to cool off. Root Sup & Fitness offers classes for kids as young as 6 with their SUP Sprouts class. For those ages 10 and over, they offer classes twice a week, along with their very popular summer camp that runs multiple weeks during the summer months. SUP is truly an all-age activity and it a great way to experience Southern Maryland in a new way. Find more information about classes for everyone in your family on root’s Facebook page @rootsupfitness or on their website at www.rootsupfitness.com.

Ju ly/Au g u st 2 02 1 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com

Looking for a break from the humidity? Book a room at Escape from the Past, Southern Maryland’s Original Escape Room. Book the Cell Block 99 room to see if you and your family can escape from your cell before the prison guard catches you! Or step back in time to see if your group can solve the mystery in the Moll Dyer room. Whichever you choose, this unique experience will offer a challenging yet fun experience for everyone. Find Escape from the Past on Facebook @escapefromthepastllc. Give them a call to book your experience today 301-247-1721.

3

Macaroni Kid Calvert - St. Mary’s is a free weekly newsletter and website that focuses on fun family events and information in both Calvert and St. Mary’s County, Maryland. Visit https:// calvert.macaronikid.com to subscribe to our newsletter and to see events happening in our area.

home care

By Gene Wright

How Bad Are Carpenter Bees, Really?

Have you ever noticed fuzzy insects around your house that look like bumblebees, but have a shiny black underside instead of a furry yellow one? Those are carpenter bees, and their presence causes much dismay among East Coast homeowners.

How bad are carpenter bees in Southern Maryland and Northern Virginia, though? Are they something you should be concerned about, something to be feared, or can you feel free to ignore their presence? For everything you need to know, keep reading through this simple guide to carpenter bees on the East Coast.

The Consequences of Carpenter Bees Carpenter bees, like most insects, play two roles: that of a human pest and that of a vital ecosystem component.

On one hand, they are excellent pollinators. Their fuzzy bodies pick up pollen when they land on flowering plants and spread them to others. This facilitates the growth of future generations of plants. Without pollinators, many of the plants we rely on for food and beautiful gardens would die out.

On the flip side, a carpenter bee infestation can do a lot of damage to your home and belongings. These insects get their name because of their ability to drill through wood.

­

Unlike termites, they do not eat it, but they use their strong jaws to burrow into lumber and build their homes.

Over time, carpenter bees can hollow out the posts on your deck, destroy the structural beams in your house, or chew through the wall of your shed.

Thankfully, they are not as aggressive to humans as they are to trees—they will only sting if provoked.

Why Are There More Carpenter Bees in NoVA and SoMD? If you think you have noticed an uptick in carpenter bees near you in the past few years, it is not in your imagination.

Back in 2003, the EPA banned chromated arsenicals (CCAs), a common additive in treated lumber. This was great from an environmental standpoint due to less arsenic leaking into the soil. Even so, the replacement additive (ACQ) does not repel bees as well as the original.

What does that mean for you?

If you have rebuilt your deck or other outdoor structures with treated lumber purchased in 2004 or later, you will need to keep a close eye out for bees.

Call a trusted local pest control service if you notice the signs of

a new colony instead of trying to take care of them yourself.

Are You Finding Carpenter Bees Around Your Home?

Carpenter bees may be an annoying pest to have around your home, but they serve as a critical part of the Maryland/ Virginia ecosystem. These fuzzy insects are important pollinators, so it is best to bring in the experts instead of the pesticides when they decide to move into your yard.

When you need to deal with carpenter bees in Southern Maryland and Northern Virginia, Planet Friendly Pest Control is the team to call. We take a planet-friendly approach to pest control, creating a custom plan for each home, and avoiding chemical insecticides whenever possible. Contact us online to set up your appointment for a comprehensive inspection today.

Gene Wright is the president of Planet Friendly Pest Control, a locally owned and operated pest exterminator company focused on providing their clients with the very best in pest control, rodent extermination and termite control, while reducing the overall impact on the environment.

July/August 2021 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com

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Fells Point All Grown Up

Visit Baltimore and Leave it Even Better than When You Arrived

The pool at Sagamore Pendry in Fells Point with views of the harbor and city skyline. Photo Courtesy of Sagamore Pendry Baltimore

I

f you haven’t been to Baltimore in a while, it is high time you pay Charm City a visit. For many of us Southern Marylanders, we may still think of Baltimore as the college town we remember from years ago, and while it is home to more than its share of schools, it has really aged gracefully over the years.

Yes, of course there is plenty of what you may recall from years past – the live music and dive bars, wild and crazy college kids, but there is also a much more sophisticated side of this genuine city. Shopping, fine dining and world-class accommodations have added to Baltimore’s iconic museums and attractions to make it an interesting long-weekend destination.

I was lucky enough to visit Baltimore recently with my family and my, oh, my, I savored every moment of our first post-pandemic getaway. Maybe it was this new side of Baltimore I hadn’t noticed before or the fresh perspective I now see the world through – either way, I was totally charmed by the people and the place. My fellow visitors and native Baltimoreans alike were chatty, smiley and inviting. Was it because I have not seen so many new smiling faces in real life in more than a year? I’ll never know, but everyone seemed to be enjoying the perfect beginnings of a Baltimore summer (especially those on the Urban Pirates ship)!

The summer really is the ideal time to visit Baltimore, here are my recommendations for a trip to please the entire gang.

As Americans get back to travel, many of us will be putting more time, thought and research into our travel plans than ever before.

Regenerative travel is all about leaving a destination better than it was before – many times, simply by supporting businesses that give back locally, and Baltimore is full of hotels, attractions, and cultural institutions that aim to succeed beyond profits by focusing on the betterment of the community. We highlight a few of our favorites, so that you can experience something great while knowing your money is supporting a business that believes in giving back.

July/August 2021 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com

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Stay

Sagamore Pendry Hotel

The historic Recreation Pier structure that houses the Sagamore Pendry Hotel dates back to 1914 and had in the past been an immigration hub and recreation center. Situated in the heart of Fells Point, the brick building was stripped down and revamped in 2017 as a trendy and tasteful 128-room hotel featuring local artwork, a steakhouse, a gleaming outdoor pool, bar and grill, and some of the Baltimore’s finest views of the Inner Harbor. www.pendry.com/baltimore Sagamore Pendry Lounge

Fells Point

Hotel Revival

Located in the Mount Vernon neighborhood, Hotel Revival has consistently supported its community. When the pandemic hit, the Hotel Revival team spent their weekends handing out hundreds of free bagged lunches and fresh produce in partnership with organizations like Hungry Harvest and Coastal Sunbelt Produce. In addition to feeding those in need, Hotel Revival offered free rooms to first responders, health officials and the Maryland National Guard. They also made, and continue to make, their kitchen available to restaurants or chefs who lost a place to cook.

See & Do

American Visionary Art Museum (AVAM)

The Science and Mystery of Sleep is on exhibit through Fall 2021 at the AVAM. Fantastical bedrooms created by three visionary artists, this exhibit explores the latest research behind sleep. This is your chance to view sleep through an artist’s eyes. Also on exhibit this summer, is the Secret Life of Earth. Earthlings, you are invited to an exhibition that is one-part visual Earth love fest and two parts environmental crash course on the wonders and fragility of life on our planet. www.avam.org

Chessie Dragon Paddle Boats

The original Chessie Dragon paddle boats have become a fixture in Baltimore’s waterfront landscape and have served hundreds of thousands of visitors since the attraction opened in 1975. The nonprofit Living Classrooms Foundation operates the boats as an employment venue for youth and young adults as part of its job training programs. Proceeds from ticket sales support Living Classrooms’ hands-on education and job training programs. www.livingclassrooms.org/programs/paddle-electric-boats

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Water Taxi outside Sagamore Pendry Hotel

National Aquarium

With so many aquatic animals and award-winning exhibits, the dolphins, sharks and jelly fish at the Baltimore Aquarium just begin to scratch the surface. Learn about animals from all over our blue planet, from the depths of the ocean to the canopy of the rain forest – and discover the connection they all share with water.

Reserve tickets online prior to your visit. www.aqua.org

Maryland Zoo

Calling all animallovers. Baltimore has a zoo, too! Tucked into the Druid Hill Park neighborhood, you’ll meet birds (penguins!), mammals, amphibians, and reptiles! The Zoo is home to 130 different species including a farm exhibit.

Reservations required. www.marylandzoo.org

While Visiting Baltimore, support the conservation and rehabilitation of wildlife.

The National Aquarium in Baltimore and The Maryland Zoo have long been considered East Coast treasures, but these organizations do more than just house animals and welcome visitors.

National Aquarium Animal Rescue is federally permitted by the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to respond to sick and injured marine mammals. Since 1991, they have returned hundreds of rehabilitated animals to their natural habitats including seals, sea turtles, a harbor porpoise, pygmy sperm whale and a manatee.

The Maryland Zoo is committed to saving wildlife and wild places through its conservation and sustainability efforts. Dedicated conservation staff conduct research, participate in field work projects and support the work of partner organizations around the world. The Zoo’s six Signature Animal Programs (SAPs) tie exceptional in-house husbandry, medical care, research and education programs to conservation action in the field.

Dine

Miss Shirley’s Café

Local and family owned, this Baltimore classic located in the Inner Harbor (and Roland Park if you want to explore this historic residential neighborhood) is the perfect spot for the family. Go for breakfast, brunch or lunch at one of Maryland’s favorite restaurants, featured on the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives episodes. www.missshirleys.com

The Choptank

Opened in the newly renovated 200-plusyear old Broadway Market, The Choptank is a classic fish and crab house, located in the heart of historic Fells Point, serving Maryland’s famous cuisine, highlighted by steamed hard-shell blue crabs. Enjoy a cocktail, crush or one of 20 draft beer selections while listening to live local music on their indoor stage. The Choptank’s spacious patio features an outdoor bar, gas lanterns, a pool table, foosball and plenty of seating so you can watch the bustling neighborhood that surrounds you. www.thechoptankbaltimore.com

Ouzo Bay

This impressive Greek restaurant situated on the inner harbor offers an authentic Mediterranean menu, meticulous service and a supercool atmosphere. Pop over to the waterfront villa-inspired bar and lounge Ouzo Beach after dinner for a cocktail and live beats. www.ouzobay.com

Alma Cocina Latina

Dine at a restaurant invested in keeping Baltimore fed. Alma Cocina Latina has been a local favorite since its opening in 2015, offering Baltimore a taste of Venezuela. The restaurant has a longstanding partnership with Mera Kitchen Collective, a local cooperative focused on empowering chefs from around the world. During the pandemic, Alma and the collective took their collaboration to the next level by developing Alkimiah, a partnership that holistically addresses food apartheid.

They use Alma’s kitchen daily to create free, healthy meals for Baltimore City residents in need. www.almacocinalatina.com

Photos Courtesy of The Choptank

Shop Su Casa

Whether you want to pick up a gift, or something for your own abode, this home and design store located on Bond Street in Fells Point is a true gem. Their owners work to provide a curated marketplace for handmade products from skilled artisans, many being local in Maryland, with three more locations – Bethany Beach, Ocean View, and Ellicott City –this shop reminds us why we love to support our small businesses. www.sucasa-furniture.com

Greedy Reads

Pick up a book or two from this local bookshop. Ask about a novel or nonfiction book by an author with Baltimore roots. Perhaps Hummingbird in the Trenches by Kondwani Fidel - Baltimore’s unofficial poet laureate writes a moving eye-opening work about the young Black experience in America. Or, The Beautiful Struggle

by Ta-Nehisi Coates – about his father, siblings and his youth growing up in Baltimore. www.greedyreads.com

Fells Point July/August 2021 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com

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Art & Culture

11th Annual Lake Arbor Jazz Festival Attend this Live, Intimate Summer Concert Series at National Harbor The Prince George’s Cultural Arts Foundation and National Harbor are bringing back one of the DMV’s top live performance music events, the Lake Arbor Jazz Festival (LAJF).

The historic event was modified this year to a summer outdoor concert series to reflect music lovers’ appetite to slowly return to live performances in a safe environment. Not to mention, at one of the most accessible, familyfriendly, and popular entertainment destinations in the region.

Hosted again by seasoned DMV broadcast personality Tony Richards, this much anticipated Summer Concert Series will be held over a five-week period beginning Thursday, July 1 through Sunday, August 1 from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at National Harbor’s Southpointe outdoor venue located at 701 National Harbor Blvd.

Under a covered tent overlooking the National Harbor Marina, this year’s performers are a “who’s who of smooth jazz and R&B” that include Najee, Avery Sunshine, Jeff Bradshaw, Maysa, Nick Collione, Gerald Albright, Norman Brown along with DMV region favorites Brian Lenair, the String Queens, Pink Palish and Phaze II. Since its inception in 2010, LAJF has drawn over 50,000 attendees and awarded more than $40,000 in educational scholarships to deserving Prince George’s County students pursuing college education in the visual and performing arts.

This one-of-a-kind event brings together a diverse audience of contemporary and traditional jazz music lovers, young and old, for an unforgettable music experience with fans coming from as far away as New York and North Carolina.

For information on performances, dates, times, and ticket information, please visit www.lakearborjazz.com

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