Baltimore didn’t just become my home—it became my heart. I arrived here in 1978 as a college student at Goucher, and over the decades, this city has shaped me in ways I never could have imagined. My journey has been filled with twists, turns, and moments that tested my strength, but through it all, I’ve found purpose, community, and a kind of energy that fuels everything I do.
I spent 20 years with MCI, a Fortune 100 company that gave me a front-row seat to the world of business and communication. It was exciting, fast-paced, and formative. But it wasn’t until I joined a local direct mail magazine in 2002 that I began to feel truly connected to Baltimore’s soul. That role introduced me to the people, stories, and neighborhoods that make this city so special.
Then came a lunch in 2015 that changed everything. I met someone with a vision—a dream to create a media company that would give voice to the greater Baltimore Jewish community. That dream became Jmore, and being part of it has been one of the most meaningful chapters of my life. Today, Jmore is a nonprofit, and we’re not just telling stories—we’re building bridges, celebrating identity, and empowering the next generation of storytellers.
My daughter and I live in northwest Baltimore, and it’s more than just our neighborhood—it’s our village. It’s the place that helped raise her and held me through every milestone. Becoming a mom at 48 wasn’t part of the original plan, but it was the most beautiful detour life could have offered. She’s now 17, thriving, and the absolute light of my life. Watching her grow has been my greatest joy and my proudest accomplishment.
Good energy, to me, is more than a phrase—it’s a way of being. It’s the mindset I choose every day. It’s the warmth I try to bring into every room, the empathy I offer in every conversation, and the hope I carry even when things get hard. I’ve learned to surround myself with people who radiate positivity, and together, we lift each other up.
One of the most joyful ways I’ve seen good energy come to life is through an event we host at Jmore called, Good Energy Pickleball, with BGE’s generous support. It’s laughter, movement, and connection—all wrapped up in a community celebration. We’re bringing it back in early 2026, and I can’t wait. The event supports our mission and helps fund scholarships for young storytellers who are ready to make their mark on the world.
Volunteering is also a huge part of who we are. My daughter and I don’t just show up—we dive in. We’ve delivered meals to families during the holidays, written notes to kids who need encouragement, served dinner to homeless veterans, and helped nonprofits build volunteer databases. We’ve marched for causes we believe in and cooked for families of sick children. Volunteering isn’t just something we do—it’s how we live.
Of course, life hasn’t always been easy. My mom was diagnosed with MS when I was a baby, and she passed away at just 44. I was 16. Losing her so young changed me—it gave me empathy, resilience, and a deep understanding of how precious life is. Later, when my marriage ended, I faced the challenge of starting over. I chose adoption, and that decision led me to my daughter. The road was hard, but it was paved with love, and I wouldn’t trade a single step.
Now, I’m looking ahead with excitement. On February 8th, we’re launching Amplify 2026 – JMORE at the NCO Club in Pikesville. It’s a three-month program designed to help Jewish high school students explore their identities and amplify their voices through writing, photography, videography, and social media. They’ll learn from inspiring speakers, collaborate with peers, and build real-world skills for college and beyond. And yes—six winners will share over $10,000 in scholarships. It’s a dream come true, and I’m so proud to be part of it.
At the end of the day, good energy is about showing up—with heart, with hope, and with the intention to make things better. It’s about lifting others, building community, and believing that even the smallest act of kindness can ripple outward in powerful ways. That’s the energy I live by. That’s the energy I hope to share.
