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Managing your finances, creating a budget, preparing to buy your first home, saving for retirement, and starting a plan for college funding, are all big initiatives we may face at some point in our lives. It can be overwhelming for many. Financial advisors can be a “wealth” of knowledge to help individuals receive guidance. Often, however, only people who make a certain amount of income can fit a personal financial advisor into their budget.
Thankfully, there is a new company, Filance, LLC, and its mission is to provide expert financial services to the regular everyday person, from the convenience of your mobile device. The vision is to “significantly close the wealth gap by providing affordable access to financial experts, knowledge, and resources.” We sat down, “virtually”, with Founder and CEO Ronda Reid-Mohammed, to learn more. An IT professional with over 18 years of experience in leadership and information technology, she has a passion for finance, discovered a need, and jumped in to fill it. Watch the interview here, or read the overview below. When did you open your doors?
Ronda’s idea came about in 2018. After a discussion with other financial advisors and some consideration, she decided to get into the mobile market. “Everyone has a phone and being able to offer the service via the mobile app was a little different… out of the ordinary for financial services. So, in 2019 we started working on the iOS app, and it was released in July 2020.” Ronda and her team are working on the release of the Android app now.
How were you drawn to this idea?
Ronda: “A little over two years ago, I attended a free class on financial planning and investing. At the end, they offered a more individualized experience. For a two-thousand-dollar retainer fee, they could help you. The idea of having to pay such a crazy amount of money was insane for me. Many people are living paycheck to paycheck. They’re trying to figure it out. They don’t have two thousand dollars to sit down and talk through their situation. I felt there had to be a better way, so I decided to create one.”
Who do you hope to serve with the Filance mobile app? Ronda explains how “typically, financial advisor services are for people who make a certain amount… most of them have retainer fees and all other sorts of fees that regular people cannot afford. I wanted to reach out to everyday people. My audience is that middle class, you know the people who typically find themselves in a situation where they make too much to get any assistance and don’t make enough to pay for assistance on their own.”
Ronda explains how a common scenario is someone that thinks, ‘I feel I make enough, but for some reason, I’m living paycheck to paycheck. I just need someone to take a look at this for me and just help me have a plan for my money.’
“Not everyone has the goal of being a millionaire or being a trader or investor, but I think everyone deserves an equal opportunity to live comfortably,” Ronda shares. “The target market may be the average person who needs a little help because they don’t have a portfolio. Or perhaps they need someone to help them with a budget, or plan for retirement. Or maybe they are looking to purchase a home, want to figure out their finances, and figure out how to fix their credit to prepare for buying a home.” This is made available to anyone using the app, from the convenience of their mobile device. 
How has the market responded to your initiative?
Fortunately, the response has been very positive with Filance, LLC. “We’ve gotten a lot of great reception from the market and also from financial advisors,” says Ronda. “Oddly enough, that was kind of my reluctance. Are financial advisors going to be willing to go away from having retainer fees and that type of model? … I think the environment is right for people to say, yes, we're certainly open to helping people we don't typically help.”
Breaking the Access Barrier to Financial Services
Ronda: “Another big factor for me was access. You know, me being a black woman raised in a black community, black neighborhood, we never saw financial advisors in our neighborhood. And so, this type of app breaks that barrier as it opens access to everybody no matter where you are. And again, the platform is very client-driven. So, if I am looking for a service, I can post that service on the app and say, ‘hey, I only have one hundred bucks to spend on this. Who can help me with this service?’ Filance breaks down barriers for people who have financial issues but cannot get access to live expert guidance
So what does someone do when they go onto your Filance App? Ronda: “So, they log in, click to post their request with a title, and they put a description with a little information. Then they enter their budget.” “For example, someone recently posted they have a budget of 50 dollars and they wanted help with creating a basic plan for their money. They click submit, and then financial advisors will reach out to them and say hey, I’m willing to help you. The client chooses the advisor they want to work with. Each financial advisor has a profile they create, and they can post a video introducing themselves. You see all the information about their certifications, and you can do everything, from live video meetings, chatting, talking, and transferring documents, all from the mobile app. How is this different from the robo-investor type advisory services? Ronda: “Some people have moved to this type of service, which is just a technology base. It tells you where you should invest and what you should probably do, and it is just not personalized.” “And then for the more personalized services, some firms require you to have at least $150,000 in a portfolio before you can use their service. So, it has kind of marginalized some people who may be able to use the service. You know, I think regular people can probably use those services more than people with a lot of money. Everyday people don’t have the room for a lot of mistakes. They kind of have to get it right the first time.”
Are you looking to add more financial advisors to your platform
Ronda: “Absolutely. Most work for a big firm, but this is something they can do in their spare time to make a little extra money. It is no skin off their back to help someone for, you know, 50 bucks or 100 bucks. Then it expands their market. They can to people in California and Nevada and wherever to increase their client base and make a little money.“ What’s the number one way you bring in new customers? Ronda’s primary way of increasing exposure for the Filance App has been word of mouth through other financial advisors. LinkedIn has been invaluable for networking. Additionally, the amazing team behind her has gotten their core groups out there on the app. Creating an Instagram account has also helped significantly in her growth as well as an initial email campaign and prelaunch.
How do people find your app?
People can find the Filance app by searching Filance, or search keywords such as finances, budgets, or debt management. The app is live on iOS. The Android app is coming soon.
What is the best way to reach you? Filancellc.comwww.filancellc.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/filance-llc/ https://twitter.com/fi_lance https://www.instagram.com/fi_lance/ contact@filances.com
Thank you, Ronda, for helping provide on-demand live expert financial help to individuals of all income levels.
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Hair loss happens to many and it can be very disheartening. How we look in the mirror directly affects our self-image, and ultimately our quality of life. For persons of color or African descent, there is increasing medical evidence that chemically relaxing your hair to straighten is related to breast cancer and fibroids. In this case, you may have the challenge of styling your hair without the need for strong harsh chemicals or processes that may harm your health in the long term.  Dr. Chesahna Kindred of Kindred Hair & Skin Center, has been providing solutions and positive results for such clients since December of 2017. After completing her residency in dermatology at Howard University in 2012 and gaining valuable experience in a group practice, Dr. Kindred opened her own clinic specializing in hair loss. Prior to her opening her doors, natural hair stylist and natural hair industry expert Susan Peterkin approached Dr. Kindred and proposed opening her clinic with an in-house natural hair salon. Without hesitation, Dr. Kindred said yes. In fact, Kindred Hair & Skin Center is the only dermatology practice in the world that has an in-house natural hair salon. Together with Susan Peterkin, they founded the PeterKINdred Hair and Scalp Wellness Center. Peterkin and Kindred run the salon, lead hair loss discussion groups, and host public speaking engagements in person and via online webinars, where they educate the general public as well as hair stylists about the medical aspects of hair loss and safe natural hair care. Dr. Kindred’s passion, needless to say, is empowering patients with hair loss. Thanks to her training at Howard University, she is also fully equipped and adept at treating patients with melanin-rich skin. “A lot of times with darker skin tones, you have to be very careful, or certain treatments may backfire. We’re well versed in all types of skin care, and we get results in a safe way.”
Many of us think of male pattern baldness when we think of hair loss, however, hair loss affects both men and women. “There are more than 15 types of hair loss,” Dr. Kindred explains, “and almost all of them are a disease that has to be respected. If you treat it nonchalantly, the patient can lose hair forever.” The most common form of hair loss is female and male pattern baldness, where the body’s own testosterone shrinks the hair follicles. The most common form in blacks is a scarring inflammatory form called Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia, or CCCA. Treatment for hair loss can include topical, oral, and procedural approaches like laser and platelet rich plasma. Generally, there is a targeted treatment phase, followed by an ongoing maintenance program. In the case of male pattern baldness, “if you stop treatment, the body will continue to do what it wants to do, and our body’s testosterone will shrink the hair follicles and cause hair loss again.” When asked what are some of the most rewarding aspects of having her own practice, Dr. Kindred shares, ”seeing in 6 to12 months after a hair loss patient first walks in the door, how much we’re able to accomplish with their hair and to see the patient’s confidence come back.” Also rewarding, Dr. Kindred says, is “allowing young women who want to become physicians to shadow me in the office. There is always either a high school student, a college student, a medical student, even hair stylists that are shadowing me in my office, and learning from us so they can take it back to their careers.” Dr. Kindred explains some cultural trends that are influencing her practice’s growth. “There’s a lot of pressure in society for black women to straighten their hair, but now there is more data showing that relaxers may be related to breast cancer and fibroids.” There is the CROWN Act in California (CROWN stands for Create a Respectful and Open Workplace for Natural Hair), that is taking foot across the US. It prohibits discrimination based on hair style and hair texture. “We have generations of women that always straightened their hair, who are now trying to figure out how to care for their own natural hair,” Dr. Kindred explains. Here is where Dr. Kindred and her team provide tremendous value, by educating and empowering women on how to care for their natural hair, and providing effective treatments to safely address their hair loss.  Another plus, Dr. Kindred explains, is “it has allowed me more flexibility and ability to do more for my patients. I’ve had hair loss patients whose stylists didn’t know exactly how to care for their hair because of the hair loss, so by having the salon in my office and being able to train the natural hair stylists here, we’re able to help coach the patients and their stylist through the disease process and teach them how to adjust. I would never have been able to do that if I didn’t open this practice.” Hair loss clients make up about 50% of Dr. Kindred’s case load, while the remaining half is medical dermatology conditions like eczema, psoriasis, hidradenitis, and cosmetic procedures like laser treatments for dark spots, and anti aging treatments like chemical peels. Dr. Kindred performs about 97% of procedures, while others are performed by her qualified aesthetician. “When a patient comes in, they can rest assured they are being seen by a board-certified dermatologist.” What are some goals for Dr. Kindred this year? A few include adding hair transplantation and scalp micropigmentation. “Some patients don’t come early enough to save the hair because the follicle is already destroyed. Some require hair transplantation, but some may not want to go that far, so we can tattoo the area (scalp micropigmentation), to make it look fuller.” This can help those that want an alternative to using products like Toppik, a pigmented filament you can sprinkle on your scalp to make your hair look fuller, but can lead to feelings of self consciousness about it rubbing off unexpectedly. Dr. Kindred sees patients Monday through Thursday. On Fridays and Saturdays you can find her taking part in one of many volunteer organizations. She recently founded the Onyx Medical Society for black doctors that live and work in Howard County. She is a deacon at her church Celebration Church at Columbia. She chairs the Dermatology Section of the National Medical association and she heads the health committee for the African American Community Round Table of Howard County. She enjoys spending time with her husband, kids, and mother. Be sure to check her out live Monday on Facebook @kindredhairandskin and Instagram @kindrederm, where she hosts “Derm Myth Monday” and debunks common myths about hair skin and nails. To make an appointment with Dr. Kindred, book online at https://kindredhairandskin.com/ or call 443-424-7754. She is located at 8900 Columbia 100 Parkway, Suite F, Columbia, MD 21045
Jewelry plays such a large role in self expression and fashion, and it can play a significant part in preserving memories as well. A simple piece can represent the special moments and people we cherish, the events that shape our lives, and the characteristics that make us unique. Thomas’s Fine Jewelry in downtown Cambridge, MD , is the special place where you can find that perfect piece. As the only full-service jewelry store in downtown Cambridge MD, Thomas’s Fine Jewelry creates one-of-a-kind jewelry honoring the character of the Eastern Shore of Maryland. We spoke with the owners, brother and sister team Thomas and Amanda to learn more about their highly rated store. Thomas is a goldsmith by training and has extensive background working as an apprentice for a jeweler for ten and a half years before having the opportunity to fulfill his dream of opening his own store. There was a jewelry business in the old Ledlum building of downtown Cambridge, the store’s current location, that served the community since the 1930s. The store eventually closed their doors and the building was put up for sale. “We decided to buy it and give it a go,” Thomas shares, “and we set up a new business that offers fine jewelry and a full service repair shop.” They opened their doors in 2016, and the brother and sister duo partner together to properly manage the store and offer excellent customer service. While Thomas is highly skilled in crafting jewelry, Amanda takes the lead on sales and marketing. Their store features a wide array of quality one-of-a-kind sterling and gold jewelry and engagement rings, and they have an extensive collection of Eastern Shore inspired fine handcrafted jewelry by local goldsmith Lynn Stavdal and store owner Thomas Robinson. Their Eastern Shore inspired collection features Lynn Stavdal’s designs, like her beautiful little muskrats charms, and charming 14K gold 3-D miniature crab baskets that open and close. ‘’It's something that no other jeweler has ever made and that's what we take pride in.” Thomas has just released a piece featuring the Snakehead fish, an invasive species of the Eastern Shore. He has a custom designed snakehead casting 1.5” long that he used to create a unique bracelet and necklace. Another original creation is his sterling silver fish hooks that he melds into a uniquely designed bracelet, necklace, and earrings. All their jewelry is Eastern Shore inspired, and designed and handcrafted in Dorchester County, MD.  Much of Thomas’s Fine Jewelry’s growth has been through word of mouth and social media. Their website has been another source of growth as they continue to add more of their merchandise visitors to peruse and order online. They are discovering visitors are coming from as far as 2 hours away to pay their store a visit and get their hands on their unique and beautiful collections. Fortunately this is leading to a boost to the entire area as visitors continue onward to explore other local businesses such as the popular RAR Brewery and Maiden Maryland store.
Thomas and Amanda know that jewelry is more than just an accessory. It could be a family heirloom or something that has tremendous sentimental value and may need an upgrade so that it stays intact but is pleasing aesthetically. They may melt down a family treasure in order to repurpose it into a special piece for the next generation recipient. They also offer jewelry and watch repair, jewelry engraving, ring sizing services, custom jewelry design, and cleaning and polishing services. ‘’We always try to evaluate what our customers want and help them with what they need,’’ Thomas said. For three years and counting their business has gained considerable momentum. The brother and sister team have the ongoing mission of providing exceptional service to their clients. Amanda explained, ‘’We’re personable. We're really trying to bring that back to a small town where you walk in the door and we know your name. We get to work with our customers on more of a personal basis.’’ As they take pride in featuring locally inspired jewelry designs and an amazing experience, Thomas’s Fine Jewelry is involved in community events. Check them out at the Boat Docking Contest hosted by the Dorchester Chamber of Commerce Saturday June 6, 2020 at Long Wharf, High Street, Cambridge, MD. To learn more about Thomas’s Fine Jewelry and their collections, you can visit and shop from their website at www.thomassfinejewelry.com. They are located at 525 Poplar Street, Cambridge, MD, 21613. Call 410-228-0321.
If you had an amazing experience with Thomas fine Jewelry or wanted to let others know about them please share and comment below.
These are challenging times for local business owners. Hear how Daniela of PlantBar is making the most of it and continue to serve her customers. Specializing in vegan, raw, gluten-free, and paleo food and drinks, Plantbar is located at Belvedere Square Market Towson, Harbor Point, and Brewer's Hill in Baltimore. MD.
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One of the most satisfying and reassuring achievements for many is owning the home of their dreams. For mortgage loan officer Wm. Dale Beach, there is nothing more satisfying than helping his clients buy a home they love and can afford. A former US Army Veteran, Dale has been helping his clients achieve their dreams of homeownership for three years and counting. He specializes in VA loans, a mortgage loan available through a program established by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. They are specifically intended to assist active-duty military personnel, veterans, and eligible surviving spouses to become homeowners. Incorporating the principles he learned in the military, he embodies honesty, integrity and loyalty when working with his clients. Carefully assisting and evaluating the options that will best benefit his clients best is his top priority Dale is director of the Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals (VAREP), a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing sustainable homeownership, financial-literacy education, VA loan awareness, and economic opportunity for the active-military and veteran communities. Through VAREP, Dale gives back to his community with ongoing educational seminars and workshops.  Dale's career in the mortgage field started when his highschool friend invited him to work in his father's mortgage company. He admitted that there were a few challenges when he first started out, but his skills developed, and Dale is now a top producing mortgage loan officer for Paramount Residential Mortgage Group Inc. (PRMG Inc.). He serves individuals all over the entire United States. ‘’I could not be happier”, he shares. “I love the work environment. The whole thing is about helping each other out, like you’re brothers and sisters. We're all a team on the same mission to help active military and veteran communities become homeowners.’’ In addition, the flexibility of his company allows him to spend more time with his son. ‘’My number one thing is my son, and flexibility is a huge thing," Dale explains. With Dale's professional growth is his mission to be the best father possible. said, ‘’My son is currently doing soccer, basketball and swimming and I want to be there for him.’’  By integrating the principles of honesty, integrity and loyalty in his field, Dale builds trust with his clients. Nearly 100% of his business is based on referrals and he continuously provides value. He hosts events and partners with area dining establishments where he invites speakers from different fields with the goal of educating veterans about financial literacy and VA loans. To learn more about VA loans and see how Dale Beach can assist you, he can be reached at 443-417-3705 on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/wm-dale-beach-452952159. at his website at https://greaterbaltimore394.prmgapp.com/DaleBeach.html, and by email at wbeach@prmg.net
 Foot problems can have a significant impact on the efficiency of our work and other regular activities. How our feet feel directly influences our daily quality of life, and when they are hurting, making the visit to your doctor for diagnosis and treatment can be a challenge. Thankfully, Dr. Gregory Cardinal of Podiatry in Motion has you covered. Offering house call podiatry services, Dr. Gregory can get diagnose and treat your foot problems in the comfort of your own home. Dr. Cardinal started Podiatry In Motion four years ago after he came to realize how convenient and practical it is for his patients with foot problems to get diagnosed and treated at home, without the trouble of travelling or spending time in a waiting room while in pain and discomfort. He personally meets with his patients and gives them the quality and optimal treatment that they need.  This begins with a phone consultation with the patient for the general background of the foot condition, so he can determine the services needed will be a good fit for a house call, and to make his visit and the experience meaningful and effective. His services cover almost all conditions of the foot and ankle, from the common foot problems like heel pain, ingrown toenails and medical pedicures, to cases that need more specialized methods for treatments. This includes laser treatments using the HyperBlue Plus Laser, an FDA cleared device to treat conditions like toenail fungus and chronic foot pain. This painless procedure is fairly quick and has no recovery time. He also specializes in Pediatric Podiatry and Orthotics. His procedures are mostly non-invasive and strives to provide exactly what the patient needs. Dr. Cardinal emphasizes ‘’I pride myself as a more conservative podiatrist. Having surgery should be the last resort.” Dr. Cardinal completed his three year residency at the Veteran's Affairs Maryland Healthcare System where he refined his skills in general podiatry, wound care and surgery. Practicing podiatry in military hospitals in Maryland and VA centers in West Virginia and DC exposed him to numerous foot conditions that nurtured his skill in developing effective foot care plans and treatment that would cater to his patients’ needs. Dr. Cardinal graduated with a dual degree as a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) with a Master of Science (MS) in Healthcare Administration and Management at the Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine in North Chicago, IL. He served as Chief Resident during his third year of residency. Board certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine, Dr. Dr. Cardinal has the experience, skill, and compassion to address your stubborn foot problems. Providing house call podiatry services has allowed him to better understand the condition of his patients. ‘’I really spend time with my patients, I listen to them and try and get to the root of the problem. In a hospital or clinic setting, a doctor may get so busy with so many patients and can only spend a small amount of time listening to your problems. We strive for a thorough exam, an accurate diagnosis, and we take care of the problem as efficiently as possible, because we know that multiple visits can be expensive...our approach is not protocol-based,’’ he explained. He sees you for the visits and quality care that you truly need to get back to your daily activities and lifestyle. In addition to his house call podiatry service, Dr. Cardinal does volunteer work for under-served communities. His passion for his field is truly evident. Podiatrist in Motion under Dr. Gregory Cardinal serves areas in Maryland around the beltway such as, Potomac, Silver Spring, Rockville,, Upper Marlboro and portions of southern MD. He also serves Virginia including Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Springfield, and Washington DC. To learn more about Podiatrist in Motion, visit https://www.podiatristinmotion.com and watch Dr. Cardinal’s personal video introduction. You can also call 703-879-5155 or email contact@podiatristinmotion.com
If you have experienced one of Dr. Gregory Cardinal’s house call visits or would like to let your family and friends know, share this article with them!
Nowadays it is easy and convenient to capture photos of your special events from the simple tap of your smartphone. Software is plentiful and allow you to catalog and save your memories. Sometimes, however, and perhaps increasingly, the simple task of having really nice quality photos of your family or event, in an album or framed for you to see every day you wake up, come home, or have guests and family over, becomes harder and harder to have done or do yourself. Kymberly Griffin, owner of Flawless Fotos Photography in Havre de Grace, MD, is passionate about capturing those heartfelt memories and providing a tangible product in a way that smartphones just can’t touch (or tap). We spoke with Kymberly to learn about her story. Working in the medical field as a healthcare provider for over 20 years, Kymberly embraced professional photography as a 2nd phase of her life. Ever since she was a very young child, though, photography has always been a passion of hers. As a little girl, when she had her Kodak camera, the kind that used 110 film, she recalls her mother asking her “Why do you want to take a picture of that dandelion? It’s just a dandelion.” Her answer: “I want to show what happens how the little pieces start floating off in the air when you blow on the dandelion.” Later, after years of caring for trauma and ER patients, Kymberly started feeling the emotional toll. One day, her son came to her at age 14(?), and told her he wanted to go out for the football team. He had never played any football growing up, but he was determined. Tryouts and practice started in the summer, and Kymberly captured her son’s football journey in photos, from the grueling 2 practice-a-day weeks, to times when her son was so exhausted he was physically sick after practice, only to see him go back for a second practice for the day, without any hesitation. “Not every parent gets to see what their kid goes through. I was able to capture that and he will always have that to look back on,” Kymberly shares. Other parents and friends were impressed by her work. Soon after she took photography classes at Harford Community College, and later she expanded her skills at the renowned New York Institute of Photography.
Kymberly prides herself in providing a wide variety of photography services, from weddings, newborn and maternity photos, family events, and high school senior photos. Her most favorite niche is high school senior portraits. “It is a special time. It is the last time children will be home with their parents. It’s that stage between being with mom and dad and being on their own.” She admits, yes, there are highschool contracts she could pursue, but “each highschool student is different. Their portraits should reflect their personality.” For example, one highschool senior loved to hunt with her father. Her portrait involved photos of her posed in camouflage with a bow. Another portrait highlights a student's love for shoes, after spending time getting to know the student and her interests and passions. Most of Kymberly’s business comes through word of mouth in addition to sites like Wedding Wire, and personal posts to her social media channel. She considers herself a boutique photographer, who listens to your ideas, knows her place, takes the time to connect with you, and gives you tremendous value and a great experience. She works with one client at a time, does the editing, shows clients the product, and they choose what they want. “If you don’t like any of my images,” Kymberly explains, “ I will reshoot the photos or give you your money back. I don’t know anyone that does that.”  Kymberly is also committed to ongoing learning. For example, as a newborn baby photographer, she sought additional training and became a credentialed Professional Newborn Photographer by the Professional Newborn Photographer’s Association (https://apnpi.com/), to ensure safe handling and positioning techniques for the newborn’s photo shoot. As part of her wish to give back to the community, Kymberly is also part of an elite group of partner photographers for the organization Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep (https://www.nowilaymedowntosleep.org/), an organization whose mission is to provide the healing power of remembrance, to any family experiencing the death of a baby. She will do the shoot at whatever location the family requires, to provide a lasting memory of their loved one. To connect with Kymberly Griffin of Flawless Fotos Photography, check her out at https://www.flawlessfotos.net/, call her at 410-652-2371. Her studio is located at 327 St. John Street, Havre de Grace, MD, and she also does shoots on location. If you have had a positive experience with Flawless Fotos, comment below!
 Do you have clutter in your yard you wish would go away? We all do at some point. The convenience of a nice size shed, that looks good, is durable, and fits your home’s outside decor is a common wish of many homeowners that have accumulated “stuff” over the years. Whether it is a garage, a shed, or any accessory building you are planning to add to your property, careful and thorough planning is an absolute must. An expert’s assistance can ensure you achieve the desired outcome that you are looking for. Along the busy road of Route 11 in Williamsport, MD, sits Kelly Moore Sheds and Marketplace, your local source of custom outdoor buildings that will surely suit your style and needs. They have been providing quality crafted, Amish Built Sheds since 1996.  We spoke with the owners, Meredith and Kelly Moore, who merged their expertise as owners of their own different businesses so they could offer the best services and products to their customers. Kelly Moore has built and sold sheds for over 20 years from his home and from a commercial location in Hagerstown in the past. Meredith had a store for 5 years in Sharpsburg, MD (about 30 miles west of Frederick) that featured antiques and handcrafted items. When Meredith and Kelly got together, it was only natural to join their businesses together. They named their store Kelly Moore Sheds and Marketplace and they settled in Williamsport, MD about 30 miles northwest of Frederick, in January 2019.
The couple utilizes their different experiences as entrepreneurs to complement each other. Meredith has a business degree and her daily routine can involve a combination of working directly with the customers, designing the layout and color scheme of the sheds and exterior buildings, and handling the inventory and the bookkeeping. Kelly, who has been in the shed industry for years, oversees the site work for sheds. ‘’Kelly is experienced and skilled to do the site review and installation. When there are any issues we are available to make sure to take care of them promptly.’’ Meredith said.   On their property, take time to browse their expansive selection of structures and merchandise. You won’t be disappointed. With regard to unique outdoor buildings, they offer everything from high quality Amish sheds, garages, and pool houses, to gazebos, pavilions, animal shelters, mailboxes, and horse run-ins. They are also an authorized distributor of the Big Green Egg grill, the world renowned ceramic charcoal grill which has been known since 1976 for its ability to efficiently and effectively smoke, grill, roast, and bake delicious meals, desserts, and meats with ultimate precision. ‘’What makes it unique is that because it's ceramic, it absorbs the flavor of what you cook in it and it really enhances the flavor of your food,’’ Meredith said. You will have fun learning about the Big Green Egg when Meredith and Kelly host their “Eggfest” event, where they have experts cook on the Big Green Eggs that are pre-chosen by customers for purchase at a demo price. Afterward, make your way to her store and you’ll find a useful and jovial array of furnishings and knick knacks that will be perfect for your new she-shed or man-cave. Once you decide you it’s time for a shed to regain peace of mind and sanity when you look out at your yard, with Kelly and Meredith, you’re not alone in your decision on what size or design is best for you. They offer a no-charge on-site consultation with all their customers to ensure every detail is addressed efficiently, from the building design and type, the location of the installation, to other property concerns that may influence the installation. ‘’We do a site review on almost every building we sell, whether the customer asks for it or not. We want to watch out and plan for any obstacles along the way that may hinder the delivery of the buildings, so we can make sure things run as smoothly as possible,’’ Kelly explained. Aside from conducting the site review, they also help the customers with preparing the actual site where the building will be placed. Kelly Moore Sheds provides delivery and installation across Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania and Washington DC.  Kelly and Meredith have been blessed with tremendous growth in the short year since they have opened their doors. They express deep gratitude to their community in Williamsport for all the support they have received from customers new and old, and from friends and family that have stood by their side on the journey. Their gratitude shows in their commitment to giving back to the community. Kelly and Meredith host annual sales events that get the community involved with events like the Home and Garden Show, the Christmas market, and a fundraiser like the Motorcycle Run for Juvenile Diabetes. They also give several churches opportunities to set up kiosks in their market so they can provide their services and sell merchandise there. The generous couple plans to continue hosting these events in the years to come. As they continue to grow their roots locally and regionally, Kelly and Meredith have goals to expand their business and services to deliver more structures to people all over the country.
To learn more about Kelly Moore Sheds and Marketplace, you can visit their website at http://www.kellymooreshedsandmarketplace.com They are located at 17051 Virginia Ave, Williamsport, MD 21795. They can be reached at 240-513-6996. If you have an amazing experience or wish to support Kelly Moore Sheds and Marketplace, like and share this article, so we can spread the word of the amazing things they have to offer.  Heather Allen, MS, PT, CMTPT Physical therapists play a vital role in the rehabilitation, restoration, and management of optimal physical function after an injury or disease, as well as promotion of a patient’s overall well-being. They are an integral part of the healthcare team. For Heather Allen, owner of Southern Maryland Myofascial Release, going beyond the fundamentals has become her passion. Her goal is to provide her patients with relief they often cannot find elsewhere, and to improve their function and quality of life. A licensed Physical Therapist graduating with her Master’s in 2000, Heather has vast experience in her field, from working in hospitals, home health care, skilled nursing facilities, aquatic therapy, and outpatient orthopedics. She describes her experience as a rewarding adventure which has led to a passion for myofascial release therapy, which she was first introduced to by a colleague in 2007. According to the Myofascial Release Treatment Centers And Seminars’ website (https://www.myofascialrelease.com/), the approach is a ‘’safe and very effective hands-on technique that involves applying gentle sustained pressure into the myofascial connective tissue restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion.’’ It is known for its several benefits including pain reduction and improved movement, flexibility, and muscle function. The Myofascial Release Approach® was developed by John F. Barnes PT, one of the most prominent people in the therapeutic field. Heather Allen has received advanced training in the Myofascial Release Approach, and it’s now one of the primary approaches she uses with her patients. ‘’While I was employed at another facility, I observed one of the other therapists incorporating a lot of myofascial work with her patients. After my colleague gave a talk on myofascial release, it transformed my life both personally and professionally and I immediately started taking as many classes as I could. I'm now an expert level myofascial release therapist with John F. Barnes’ training,’’ Heather relates.  Currently in Solomons MD. March 2020: 40266 Laurel Circle, Mechanicsville, MD 20659 Realizing how crucial and beneficial the approach is to her patients, Heather opened her private practice in 2011 so that she could maximize the benefit that Myofascial Release Therapy provides. ‘’I wanted to give my patients a lot more hands-on time, which is what the therapy is all about. I can pay more attention to them and give them the treatment that they really need,” she added. Even though Myofascial Release is the treatment she primarily utilizes in her private practice, she also incorporates the other skills and knowledge she has gained over the years, including her training in craniosacral therapy, trigger point dry-needling, and visceral manipulation. In some of her traditional PT environments, she shares that often she had only about fifteen minutes to put her hands on her patient, but the fascial work itself actually takes a little bit more time. ‘’My first session with my clients is about two hours long. That gives me plenty of time for evaluation and usually about 45-50 minutes of treatment on the first day. I do initiate a home exercise program, so they can learn how to start caring for their own fascia in their own body,’’ she explains. Aside from treating her patients, she ensures that they are well-educated on self care, so that they feel empowered and able to take care of themselves and manage their own symptoms, without depending on someone else entirely for the healing process. Her daily routine can be a maximum of seven patients a day, with most of her patients being individuals with longstanding chronic pain. She works with patients of any age, ranging from individuals in their 80’s to patients as young as 18 months. When asked to describe a memorable patient who has had an inspiring success story, she shares, ‘’I do have one gentleman that was just so great to work with. He came to me with lifelong issues from polio as well as battles with two cancers. He’d had multiple surgeries and he could barely function… but with the therapy that we did together, his posture improved, he was able to walk and was down to just ambulating on a cane. He was also able to reduce his pain medication significantly.’’ Although every patient’s results can vary, every patient gives her a significant sense of fulfillment to be able to help them have an improved quality of life. Her office is currently located at 90 Holiday Drive, Suite C Solomons MD but in March 2020, her new address will be 40266 Laurel Circle, Mechanicsville, MD 20659. She will be closer to home where she can treat her patients and spend more time with her children. Heather also gets involved in the community by participating in events locally with their Chamber of Commerce and conducting classes at area health care facilities. She is committed to educating the public whenever she can, in addition to providing quality care to her patients. To learn more about Heather Allen, make an appointment, or to find out how she can help you with your chronic pain, call 410-449-6682, visit her at https://journeyingintohealing.com, https://www.facebook.com/SoMDMyofascialRelease.HeatherAllen.MS.PT/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-allen-54679576
If you have experienced one of her therapy sessions or wanted to let your friends know, please feel free to share or comment below.
Giving birth to a child is a momentous life occasion that can be full of excitement, joy, fear, anxiety, laughter, and anticipation. The entire 9 month experience as well as the months after the arrival of the new family member can introduce new sources of unexpected stress, both positive and negative. Jessica Vogtman, doula, owner and founder of Living Heart Doulas, serves as a skilled source of support to bridge this transition. According to the American Pregnancy Association, a doula is a professional trained in childbirth who provides emotional, physical, and educational support to a mother who is expecting, is experiencing labor, or has recently given birth. The doula's purpose is to help women have a safe, memorable, and empowering birthing experience.” When Jessica was expecting her first child, she was fortunate enough to have her good friend Julie Grove as her doula, and she was amazed at the value she received. “It made my delivery so much easier, and then I thought, I want everyone to have this. I want to do this.” Jessica was so grateful to the expertise and support of her doula that she enrolled in the services again for her 2nd child and she started her formal training to become a professional doula. Her work is making a difference and it shows. Nearly 100% of her business comes from referrals from midwives or past clients. She is generous with her expertise and is focusing 2020 toward creating a postpartum community support system for families in Carroll County. “After going home, many families feel under supported or underprepared, and the majority of complications in pregnancy occur postpartum,” Jessica explains. Creating a post-partum community doula service can help support the families that are struggling. She is hoping to pair this support service with a hospital- based doula program.  Jessica opened Living Heart Doulas in 2016. She recalls the many stories she heard from other moms whose experiences unfortunately involved fear, abuse, and lack of support. Jessica’s mission is to be the educational, emotional, and physical support that many expecting moms are hungry for but can’t seem to find in their immediate circle. It has been a rewarding journey. When asked what one thing is that she would have changed if she were to start over from day one, Jessica shares she would have sought out more mentorship from other doulas, but now, she has significant momentum behind her and a busy practice based in Carroll County, MD. She tailors her services to the specific needs and personalities of each client and family. Her calm, easy-going but professional demeanor is the perfect fit for any mom looking for guidance and support both during and after pregnancy. Her initial consultations typically include an in person or phone consultation, where she assesses how the family unit is functioning as a whole with the new baby, and to see where the gaps and needs for support are. Postpartum support shifts are typically scheduled in four hour blocks. Some of the many areas she can assist with include but are not limited to: providing guidance with infant and breastfeeding, providing support with household duties and errands, accompanying mom to visits to the pediatrician, referring a mother or family for therapy or to a lactation specialist, facilitating confident parenting, and ensuring and assisting with optimal parent child bonding and healing.
To find out if a doula is right for you and your family, contact Jessica today at http://www.livingheartdoula.com/ on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/livingheartdoula/ or by phone at (443) 538-4276. |
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