2009 Small Business Person of the Year

The Elkton Chamber and Alliance is proud to announce Mr. Rob Massimiano of Tidewater Tattoo Studio as the 2009 Small Business Person of the Year.

Rob Massimiano moved to Cecil County with his family in 1976 from the Suburbs of Philadelphia to the Banks of the Elk River at Locust Point. Although this was a culture shock for his family, it felt like coming home to Rob since he is a real nature lover. After graduating from Bo Manor High School, Mr. Massimiano went into the service for 5 years, serving as a Navy Seabee and earning a Combat Action Ribbon, and a Marine Expeditionary Medal for service in Beirut, Lebanon.

After returning to Cecil County, he worked at Perelli Cable before his brother, Ed Massimiano, opened Elkton’s first Tattoo Studio on Main Street in 1986. His brother was aware of Rob’s artistic abilities so he offered to teach him how to tattoo. According to Rob, “If he had not offered it to me I probably would never have considered being a Tattoo Artist.”

He worked for his brother for nine years, running the Main Street shop while his brother opened a second studio in Edgewood, MD. In 1995, his brother moved to Florida so Rob purchased the business. And now, 23 years later he continues to make a living as an artist. After learning of his selection as Small Business Person of the Year, Mr. Massimiano stated, “I am grateful each and every day for the incredible gift I have been given. I have received numerous awards for various art competitions and everyone is special to me, but I can honestly say that none of them could mean more to me than this recognition from my hometown. I love Elkton, and its people, I’ve finally found something that fits.”

Mr. Massimiano serves on the Board of Directors for the Cecil County Arts Council and the Alliance of Professional Tattooists. He has been very beneficial in helping create the Arts & Entertainment District. His artistic abilities are shown in the new street banners that align Main Street.

The Small Business Person of the Year Reception will be held Thursday, November 12. The Social Hour begins at 5:30 PM with the dinner following at 6:30 PM. Those wishing to attend will need to RSVP by November 6th with their choice of either chicken marsala or prime rib.