Header

Skip to main content

Author: Amanda Bosland

Business Spotlight: Bell’s Reines

Posted on by Amanda Bosland
CEO & Co-Founder, Teneisha Thompson

Life is sweet, savor the small things.

What does Bell’s Reines offer?

Bell’s Reines offers catering, private label services, and manufactures gourmet cookies.

What motivated the start of the business?

Bell’s Reines is deeply rooted in family and legacy. The company is named after Thomas Roosevelt Bell, Jr., a man who inspired his daughter and granddaughter, the founders, to “savor the small things” in life. His wisdom and joy became the foundation for their gourmet cookie business, a way to share his spirit with the world.

The name “Reines,” a play on the French word for “queens,” honors the women in his life. It represents his daughter and granddaughter, whom he cherished as his queens, and reflects their mission to create treats that bring moments of regal delight to others. Thus, Bell’s Reines is a tribute to a beloved patriarch and a celebration of the feminine strength and love that drives the company.

What makes Bell’s Reines unique?

Bell’s Reines is a unique blend of tradition and innovation, where the legacy of Thomas Roosevelt Bell, Jr., lives on in every bite. This woman- and Black-owned, mother-daughter business crafts small-batch gourmet mini cookies, prioritizing high-quality, clean ingredients that are Non-GMO Project Verified. With options for gluten-free and vegan palates, Bell’s Reines ensures everyone can savor the small things and indulge in guilt-free pleasure.

More than just cookies, Bell’s Reines embodies a commitment to quality, ethics, and sustainability. Ethically sourced ingredients and eco-friendly packaging practices reflect the brand’s dedication to

preserving the planet. The company’s nationwide delivery and presence in select retail locations make these delightful treats accessible to a wider audience, spreading joy and warmth through every cookie.

The name “Reines” is a tribute to the women in Thomas Roosevelt Bell, Jr.’s life, honoring his daughter and granddaughter, the founders of Bell’s Reines. Their mission is to create more than just cookies; they aim to craft moments of pure delight, inspired by the patriarch’s love for life’s simple pleasures.

Why did you choose to run your business in Rockville?

Bell’s Reines began in Rockville, MD, utilizing the sole affordable shared commercial kitchen in the area, which was conveniently located for its Montgomery County-resident founders.

Where do you see your business in 5 years from now?

Over the next five years, Bell’s Reines envisions a future where their gourmet cookies are not just a local treat, but a nationally recognized brand synonymous with quality and joy. They plan to achieve this by expanding their production capabilities, venturing into new markets, and strengthening their brand identity.

At the heart of Bell’s Reines’ growth strategy is the establishment of their own commercial small manufacturing facility. This move will allow them to increase production capacity, maintain greater control over the quality of their cookies, and introduce new flavors and varieties. The company also plans to expand its distribution network, reaching more retail stores and online platforms across the country.

To further solidify their brand identity, Bell’s Reines will invest in marketing and branding initiatives. This includes developing a strong online presence, collaborating with influencers, and participating in food events and festivals. By showcasing their commitment to quality ingredients, family values, and the joy of sharing, Bell’s Reines aims to create a loyal following of cookie enthusiasts.

About Bell’s Reines

Bell’s Reines is a woman-owned, SBA-WOSB certified business specializing in gourmet mini cookies. Bell’s Reines is Non-GMO Project Verified and committed to using high-quality, ethically sourced ingredients and eco-friendly packaging practices. Their cookies are available for purchase online and at select retailers nationwide.

 

Website: www.bellsreines.com
Instagram: @bellsreines
Facebook: Bell’s Reines

Maryland Women’s Business Center Welcomes Karen Sippel as New Managing Director

Posted on by Amanda Bosland
Karen Sippel (pictured above) - Begins as MWBC's Managing Director as of February 4, 2025

Sippel’s career is rooted in supporting small businesses, particularly women-owned enterprises.

Rockville, Md., Feb. 4, 2025 –The Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC), a program of Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI), is pleased to announce the appointment of Karen Sippel as its new Managing Director effective February 4, 2025. With a career spanning entrepreneurship, nonprofit leadership, and strategic communications, Sippel brings a wealth of experience to MWBC as it continues to empower entrepreneurs across Maryland.

“We are thrilled to welcome Karen to MWBC,” said Cynthia Rivarde, CEO of Rockville Economic Development, Inc. “Her experience designing and leading training program for women entrepreneurs, combined with her background in marketing, nonprofit management, and fundraising, makes her a tremendous asset to our organization and the businesses we serve.”

Sippel’s career is rooted in supporting small businesses, particularly women-owned enterprises. As co-founder and managing director of the African Women Entrepreneurship Cooperative (AWEC), she led a capacity-building program that empowered 200 business owners annually across 52 African countries to level-up their skills, increase revenue, and hire more employees. She has also founded and operated multiple businesses, including a professional services firm and a wholesale bakery, the latter of which she opened after earning a pastry arts certificate from a Washington, D.C.-area culinary school.

In addition to her work in entrepreneurship, Sippel has held senior leadership roles in communications, marketing, and fundraising at tech startups, nonprofits, and global public affairs firms. She has served as a senior executive at The Center for Global Enterprise, Personal (a startup focused on online privacy that was later acquired by Digi.Me), and major public relations and marketing agencies such as Porter Novelli, Merritt Group, and Burson-Marsteller.

With a deep passion for entrepreneurship, Sippel is eager to lead MWBC into its next chapter. “Coming from a multi-generational family of business owners, I have a deep affinity for those who take the leap to start and grow their own businesses,” said Sippel. “I understand the challenges entrepreneurs face, and I’m honored to step into this role at MWBC to continue supporting small businesses across Maryland.”

Sippel holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from the University of Virginia. She also serves as a mentor to women entrepreneurs, providing guidance through AWEC’s year-long capacity-building program.

About Maryland Women’s Business Center

Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC) is a signature program of Rockville Economic Development, Inc. MWBC helps entrepreneurs and small businesses owners across Maryland’s Capital Region start, sustain, and grow their companies. Through workshops, individual counseling, facilitated peer group support, special resources, and access to capital, MWBC annually helps over 1,500 entrepreneurs gain the skills, connections, and confidence necessary to navigate entrepreneurship. Learn more at marylandwbc.org. 

Media Contact
Amanda Bosland, Marketing & Communications Director, REDI – amanda@rockvilleredi.org

Business Spotlight: Fight Into Fitness

Posted on by Amanda Bosland
Owners Angel McNamara (left) and Makeda Richardson (right)

Boxing. Fitness. Community. Fun.

What does Fight Into Fitness offer?

Fight Into Fitness offers Group Fitness Classes for ALL fitness levels and virtual classes for our 50+ community. As an official USA Boxing Club, we offer coaching for competitive fighters to harness and improve their skills for competition. We provide a full-equipped boxing gym for private fitness classes, boxing-inspired programs and events, and team building experiences. We also offer stretch sessions, personal fitness training and coaching. Fight Into Fitness is home to Rock Steady Boxing Montgomery County, a non-contact boxing inspired fitness program uniquely designed for the Parkinson’s community.

What motivated the start of the business?

Training introduced us to the many benefits that boxing offers: Physically (cardiovascular, stamina, strength, balance and coordination), mentally (focus, spatial awareness), and emotionally (stress relief, mood boost). Our mission not only became to share these benefits but also to empower others by sharing our knowledge and helping them discover their potential, showing them that they are capable of so much.

What makes Fight Into Fitness unique?

At Fight Into Fitness, we pride ourselves on creating a brave and inclusive space where everyone, regardless of their fitness level, feels welcome and supported. Our doors are open to anyone with the willingness to learn, grow, and challenge themselves.

What sets us apart are our Core Pillars:

Boxing: We incorporate the discipline, strength, and technique of boxing in a way that is accessible and empowering.

Fitness: Our programs are designed to promote physical health, while building endurance, strength and confidence.

Community: Beyond fitness, we foster meaningful connections, creating a supportive environment where participants uplift one another.

Fun: We believe boxing and fitness should be enjoyable, so we integrate energy, creativity, encouragement and excitement into all that we do.

Why did you choose to run your business in Rockville?

Fight Into Fitness began in 2014 as a mobile training company, traveling throughout the DMV area to provide boxing-inspired fitness training and group classes. During this journey, we were approached about starting a Rock Steady Boxing Program in the DMV area. Encouraged by a woman diagnosed with Parkinson’s and recognizing the need for this program, we pursued certification as Rock Steady Boxing Coaches. Initially, we faced several challenges finding a space to launch the program. Fortunately, we were able to secure a sub-lease in Gaithersburg to get started. Over time, as out program grew and gained momentum, we were grateful for the unwavering support or out Rock Steady Boxing community, which played a significant role in helping us take the next step.

We chose Rockville because of its convenient proximity to Gaithersburg and the ICC, making it accessible for our Rock Steady Boxing community. Additionally, the owner of our current location offered us a space to take the next steps in growing our business.

In many ways, it feels like Rockville chose us. After facing numerous challenges and rejections when seeking to lease space in Montgomery County, we were fortunate to find someone that said “yes”.

Where do you see your business in 5 years from now?

In 5 years, we envision Fight Into Fitness as a household name for all things boxing and fitness in the DMV area and beyond. Our goal is to be recognized not only for our boxing-inspired programs but also as a leader in promoting physical, mental and emotional well-being through innovative, inclusive and community driven boxing-inspired fitness offerings.

We hope to expand our reach by establishing additional locations, offering our virtual and in-person classes to more communities, and creating partnerships with Montgomery County, local organizations and programs. We aim to diversify our services to cater to a broader audience, ensuring everyone has access to the power of boxing and boxing-inspired fitness. Ultimately, we want Fight Into Fitness to be a trusted hub for boxing, fitness, personal growth, community connection and overall well-being.

About Fight Into Fitness

Fight Into Fitness Boxing and Fitness Gym offers group strength and conditioning classes, boxing circuit training, personal training and coaching.

Visit Fight Into Fitness at 15213 Display Court Rockville, MD 20850

 

 

Website: www.fightintofitness.com
Healthy Hits Blog: www.fightintofitness.com/healthy-hits
Instagram: @fightn2fitness
Facebook: Fight Into Fitness

Business Spotlight: Creative Motion Events by Fay

Posted on by Amanda Bosland
Fayola Whyte-Manco, Owner & Lead Event Sylist

Transform your special moments into extraordinary experiences

What does Creative Motion Events by Fay offer?

Creative Motion Events by Fay offers a full range of event planning, design, and rental services. This includes everything from assisting with venue selection, coordinating with vendors, managing event logistics, and transforming spaces for weddings, corporate events, and other celebrations.

What motivated the start of the business?

I’ve always had a deep passion for creativity, design, and helping people bring their visions to life. Starting this business allowed me to combine those passions and provide clients with personalized event experiences that allow them to celebrate and connect without the stress of managing every detail.

What makes Creative Motion Events by Fay unique?

What sets Creative Motion Events by Fay apart is our dedication to both aesthetics and experience. Every event is carefully designed with attention to detail, ensuring that every space is transformed into a stunning and memorable environment. Our ability to provide seamless logistics, alongside beautiful event styling, makes us a trusted partner for our clients.

Why did you choose to run your business in Rockville?

Although I now live in Frederick, I was born and raised in Rockville, and it will always be home to me. The city’s vibrant community, diversity, and its central location made it the ideal place to start and grow my business. It allows me to connect with clients and vendors alike from various backgrounds, all while being part of a thriving and welcoming community.

Where do you see your business in 5 years from now?

In five years, I see Creative Motion Events by Fay continuing to grow and evolve. I envision it becoming a leading name in event design, offering unique and unforgettable experiences. I also hope to expand further, possibly opening a space that reflects our brand and provides an environment for even more creative possibilities.

About Creative Motion Events by Fay

Creative Motion Events by Fay is an event planning, design, and rental business focused on creating memorable, stylish, and stress-free experiences. From weddings and other exciting celebrations to corporate events, we help clients bring their visions to life with seamless execution and attention to detail.

Learn more about Creative Motion Events by Fay at www.creativemotionevents.org

Follow Creative Motion Events by Fay on Instagram and Facebook.

Business Spotlight: RIFE International

Posted on by Amanda Bosland
Kwabena Osei-Sarpong, Founder & CEO

Sustainable solutions for energy efficiency, renewable power, and eco-friendly construction.

What does RIFE International offer?

RIFE International offers energy efficiency solutions, renewable energy projects, EV infrastructure solutions, and sustainable development services. We focus on helping organizations reduce energy consumption, optimize operational efficiency, and integrate sustainable practices into their operations.

What motivated the start of the business?

Kwabena was motivated to start RIFE International due to his strong desire to create sustainable solutions that address the dual challenges of energy access and environmental sustainability. Growing up in Ghana, Kwabena witnessed firsthand the effects of inadequate energy infrastructure and the need for innovative, cost-effective solutions to improve lives while preserving the environment. This experience, combined with his background in sustainable development and clean energy, inspired him to establish a company that could deliver transformative solutions for both developed and developing markets. He wanted to ensure that RIFE International could drive meaningful change in the energy sector by providing cutting-edge solutions to communities and organizations committed to sustainability.

What makes RIFE International unique?

RIFE International is unique because of its holistic approach to sustainability, focusing not only on energy efficiency and renewable energy but also on community impact, workforce development, and economic empowerment. As a minority-owned business, RIFE emphasizes providing opportunities for equitable growth in underserved communities, and its partnerships with global organizations and government programs allow for innovative solutions.

Why did you choose to run your business in Rockville?

RIFE International chose to establish its business in Rockville, Maryland, due to its strategic location within the Washington D.C. metro area, which is a hub for government agencies, private sector companies, and nonprofit organizations focused on sustainability and clean energy. The proximity to federal agencies like the Department of Energy and EPA, as well as key stakeholders in the clean energy and sustainability sectors, offers RIFE a unique advantage in staying connected to the latest policies, programs, and funding opportunities. Furthermore, Rockville provides an ideal environment for building partnerships and collaborating with local and international entities. The city’s infrastructure, access to talent, and business-friendly environment made it a natural choice to serve as the base of operations for a company focused on global sustainability.

Where do you see your business in 5 years from now?

In five years, RIFE International aims to continue its expansion as a global leader in clean energy and sustainable development solutions, with an expanded footprint in emerging markets. We hope to significantly scale our impact, delivering comprehensive, cost-effective energy solutions across North America, Africa, and beyond. RIFE will also continue to drive innovation in clean technologies while providing job training and educational opportunities in the communities we serve.

About RIFE International

RIFE International is a gloablly focused and award-winning clean tech firm, specializing in energy efficiency, sustainability, EV infrastructure, and renewable energy solutions. Headquartered in Maryland, with operations in the Mid-Atlantic region and offices in West and South Africa, we help organizations reduce energy consumption, enhance operational efficiency, and integrate sustainable practices across their operations.

Learn more about RIFE International at www.rifeintl.com

Follow RIFE International on LinkedIn.

Rockville’s metropolitan area named one of the best-performing in the U.S. for 2025

Posted on by Amanda Bosland
Photograph of a street intersection in Rockville Town Square flanked by multi-story buildings

The Milken Institute's 2025 Best Performing Cities index ranks a total of 403 cities split between small and large cities

Article originally published by Bethesda Magazine on January 20, 2025.

The metropolitan area including Silver Spring, Rockville and Frederick ranked No. 123 out of 200 large cities included in The Milken Institute’s 2025 Best Performing Cities index after making small improvements in employment and wages, according to a report released Jan. 14 from the nonpartisan think tank. 

The area’s 2025 ranking is an improvement from the 2024 ranking at No. 147, but a decrease from the No. 100 ranking in 2023. The metropolitan area, which includes Montgomery and Frederick counties, ranked in the fourth tier out of five of the index’s Best Performing Cities.

According to its website, the Milken Institute’s 2025 Best Performing Cities index ranks a total of 403 cities, split between small and large cities, using 13 metrics, including labor market conditions, high-tech industry growth and access to economic opportunities, to create its annual ranking.

According to the institute’s data, the area including Silver Spring, Rockville and Frederick saw a 1.3% increase in job growth from 2022 to 2023. The area also saw a 4.8% wage increase from 2022 to 2023. Short-term job growth from July 2023 to July 2024 was 0.4%.

When considering access to economic opportunity, 95.5% of households in the area have broadband internet and 70% have affordable housing, according to the institute’s data.

The neighboring Washington, D.C., metro area ranked No. 62 among large cities in 2025, an improvement from No. 134 in 2023 and No. 98 in 2024. The top-ranked large city was Raleigh, North Carolina, followed by the Ogden-Clearfield area and Salt Lake City, both in Utah. The top small cities included Gainesville, Georgia, and St. George in Utah.

Link to article: https://bethesdamagazine.com/2025/01/20/silver-spring-rockville-ranked-best-performing-cities/

 

Rockville Ranked 23rd Most Generous City in U.S. in GoFundMe’s 2024 Report

Posted on by Amanda Bosland

Over 15,000 Rockville residents donated to a GoFundMe this year.

GoFundMe’s 2024 Year in Help report named Rockville as the 23rd most generous city in the U.S., with over 15,000 residents contributing to fundraisers for causes like hurricane relief, Olympic dreams, and local community projects.

Per GoFundMe: “GoFundMe just released its 2024 Year in Help report, celebrating the generosity of individuals and nonprofits worldwide who helped each other throughout the year. With an average of two donations made every second, the report showcases the most generous places globally, significant moments that drove unprecedented help, and trends shaping the future of giving.

GoFundMe named Rockville the 23rd most generous city in the US!

Over 15,000 Rockville residents donated to a GoFundMe this year. Here are some of the fundraisers they supported:

More than 1.7 million people globally took action to strengthen their communities, with the number of U.S. fundraisers focused on building a “brighter future” more than doubling. In the U.S., fundraising for “essential expenses” quadrupled, while fundraising for “hope” increased by more than 50%.

Across the globe, the GoFundMe community came together in 2024 to address critical needs and champion meaningful causes worldwide:

  • Nearly $235 million raised globally for natural disaster relief and recovery efforts

  • More than 15,500 donors helped dreams come true for Olympic and Paralympic  athletes and their families.

  • More than 42 million donations to individuals

  • More than 23 million donations to nonprofits

  • Average donation amount on GoFundMe this year: $77

  • 1 in 3 GoFundMe donors are repeat donors

  • More than 2 million first-time organizers

To view the full 2024 GoFundMe Year in Help report, visit: https://www.gofundme.com/c/gofundme-2024-year-in-help

Originally published by the The MoCoShow: https://mocoshow.com/2024/12/17/rockville-ranked-23rd-most-generous-city-in-u-s-in-gofundmes-2024-report/

Rockville Ranks 9th in Top 40 Most Arts-Vibrant Communities of 2024

Posted on by Amanda Bosland

Arts-vibrant communities recognize regional artistic diversity and community success.

SMU DataArts, the National Center for Arts Research, recently unveiled its Arts Vibrancy Index for 2024, and Rockville, in conjunction with Frederick and Gaithersburg, has been named the 9th most vibrant arts community in the large metropolitan area category across the United States.

The Art Vibrancy Index analyzes communities based on metrics related to the supply and demand of arts and culture, as well as public support. It accounts for variations in population and cost of living, providing a balanced comparison across different-sized communities.

The Frederick-Gaithersburg-Rockville region has consistently ranked on the Arts Vibrancy ranking since its launch in 2015.

For a detailed overview of the criteria and to view the complete list of communities recognized, visit https://culturaldata.org/about/press-releases/arts-vibrancy-index-2024-press-release/

Rockville Home to Forbes 30 Under 30 lister

Posted on by Amanda Bosland
Parinaz Fathi of Rockville, MD

Parinaz Fathi developed VIPER, a powerful tool that can predict survival in cases of traumatic injury.

Parinaz Fathi, a Rockville native who graduated from the University of Maryland in 2015 before moving on to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign to complete her Ph.D.in 2020, has been named in the 2025 Forbes 30 Under 30 List in the Science category. She now works an independent research scholar (PI) at NIH.

Fathi developed VIPER (Vital Injury Protein Evaluation for Recovery), a powerful tool that can predict survival in cases of traumatic injury. Per the University of Maryland, “As an independent research scholar at the National Institutes of Health, Fathi leads a team that creates miniature organ models to study immune-related conditions, and examines how biological nanoparticles play a role in cancer and autoimmune diseases, with the goal of eventually developing therapeutic interventions. She likes creating “technology that could improve people’s health and well-being,” Fathi told NIH earlier this year.” She also received the Rising Terp Award from the Alumni Association in 2024.

Per Forbes, “Parinaz Fathi developed “VIPER,” a powerful tool that can predict survival in patients by identifying critical biomarkers linked to traumatic injuries. Now, Fathi is building tools to understand why the immune system sometimes attacks healthy tissues or ignores cancer cells, a crucial step in developing therapies for these conditions.”

Originally published by The MoCoShow: https://mocoshow.com/2024/12/11/rockville-native-parinaz-fathi-makes-2025-forbes-30-under-30-list/

Parinaz Fathi in Forbes 30 Under 30: https://www.forbes.com/profile/parinaz-fathi/?list=30under30-science/

Rockville Maintains Top Score on Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index

Posted on by Amanda Bosland
Photo Credit: Montgomery Community Media

“The strength of our communities lies in their ability to embrace and support all residents, regardless of who they are or whom they love.”

November 22, 2024 – Rockville has scored 100 marks for the city’s commitment to the health, welfare, safety and equality of its lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer community in its seventh year of participation in, and the 13th year for, the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index. 

Rockville scored 99 out of 100, plus an additional four bonus points, for its nondiscrimination laws, law enforcement, employment and workplace inclusivity, leadership and services to the LGBTQ+ community. Final scores cannot exceed 100. 

“[T]he strength of our communities lies in their ability to embrace and support all residents, regardless of who they are or whom they love,” stated Kelley Robinson, president of the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. 

The 13th annual MEI scorecard, released in November, analyzes and rates 506 municipalities across the country, measuring each for the inclusivity of laws, policies and services for their LGBTQ communities. The MEI is the only nationwide assessment of municipal laws, policies and services that are inclusive of LGBTQ+ people. 

Cities rated include the 50 state capitals, the 200 largest cities in the U.S., the five largest cities or municipalities in each state, cities home to the state’s two largest public universities, 75 cities and municipalities that have high proportions of same-sex couples, and 98 cities selected by HRC and Equality Federation state groups’ members and supporters. 

Cities are rated across numerous criteria, covering citywide nondiscrimination protections, policies for municipal employees, city services, law enforcement and the city’s leadership on LGBTQ+ equality. 

Learn more about the MEI at www.hrc.org/MEI. 

Press Release originally published by Rockville Reports: https://rockvillereports.com/rockville-scores-top-marks-again-for-commitment-to-lgbtq-community/