Our first diva is Susan Lanyi, owner of The Direct Approach, who started her event promotion business on the suggestion of someone. This was 8-1/2 years ago. With a background in sales, her business is a natural fit. Her event promotions have included an impressive list — the Home and Garden Show, Health Expo, Wedding Expo, and Showcase of Business. as well as others.

Susan attributes her success to 1) being an organized person; 2) being a people person; 3) having high expectations of others in the business. She knows her boundaries and has strong convictions on how things are run. Mutual respect is a requirement.

Susan stands apart from much of her competition since her business is a home-based operation — something many only dream about.

Born in the midwest, she lived in Los Angeles. prior to moving here in 1987. In her free time she loves sailing, is an avid reader, and is blessed in having her 87-year-old father living in her household.

The next time you need someone to put on a memorable event - look no further than Susan Lanyi and The Direct Approach.

Our next diva is an 16 year veteran of the insurance industry. Maggie Brewton, a State Farm agent, owns Brewton-Hight Insurance. She began her business while holding down a full-time job for the first couple of years. She gradually built her clientele up by introducing herself through cold calls.

Maggie attributes her success to having determination, caring about her clients’ happiness, integrity, discipline, ambition, and a passion for her chosen field. She looks forwards to Mondays (how many others can honestly say that?!). Enjoying the building of relationships with clients, Maggie chose the insurance field since it allowed her to work toward reaching her potential.

Originally from South America, Maggie has lived in Silverdale for 27 years, and is tremendously proud to be a part of this area. She is involved with the Silverdale Chamber and also emphasizes keeping funds in the local community. In her free time she delivers donated goods to a local women’s shelter. The local business community donates the goods and she delivers them. She also is passionate about the Clear Creek trail development project and works with the Garden Tour whereby proceeds help the trail overall. She loves gourmet cooking and entertaining.

If you are new to Silverdale, or simply looking for a new insurance agent — visit Maggie Brewton to receive some inspiration, assistance, and a smile.

Our next featured diva is Dr. Helen Butler. Some people do not enjoy going to the doctor, but this doctor may change that opinion.

After being helped by a chiropractic physician around 30 years ago, Helen decided she in turn would help others this way. She loves one-on-one patient contact and attributes that plus her passion for her chosen field as her reasons for success. Humor plays an important role in both her office and her life.

Dr. Butler is a past president of the Silverdale Chamber of Commerce and has also served two board terms. She currently is a co-chair with Medic One Foundation. This is a nonprofit organization which raises funds to supplement the Fire and Rescue Unit’s budget.

What stands Helen apart from others in her field is the fact that upon entering her office one is welcomed graciously by her black Labrador, Tulip. This combined with the office’s homey, country-style atmosphere make for a wonderful way to visit the doctor indeed.

Born in Buffalo, NY, Dr. Butler has lived in Silverdale for 25 years. In her free time she enjoys gardening and working on house projects.

Whenever you need a quick smile, stop by and visit Tulip and Dr. Helen Butler. You may never think of doctors the same way again.

Speaking of smiles leads us to our final diva, Judith Rammel of Gold Medal Marketing.

This high energy woman exudes positiveness. Being involved in the sales and marketing field for 15 years has provided her with a great foundation for dedicating herself to helping businesses reach higher levels. She helps owners understand the integration of the entire gamut of marketing and business operations. Her firm provides sales training, team building, customer service training, etc.

Judith attributes her success to strong communication skills, persevering, sincerity, and an all-around love of life. She loves working with people and helping others see results. She looks for challenges and opportunities. Passion and believing in oneself are important characteristics of success, according to Judith.

Very community oriented, Judith believes one has the responsibility to give back to the community. She is a member of the Silverdale Rotary Club and North Kitsap Soroptomist Club. In addition, she is president of the Kitsap Mental Health Foundation, and a big supporter of the YWCA. Plus, she holds board seats in the United Way and Admiral Foundation. She is also active in politics, having run the election campaign of her neighbor and friend, Sheriff Steve Boyer.

In her free time, Judith enjoys playing with her dogs, avidly reading, and downhill skiing with her husband.

Whenever you feel the need/desire to move your business forward to the next level you know it can achieve, contact Judith Rammel and Gold Medal Marketing for an enriching journey.

(Editor’s Note: Marie E. Buckner is a Port Orchard free-lance writer. Contact her at (360) 613-1085.).