Simply Bowie August Issue

Page 1

CHECK OUT

DUKE ELLINGTON

WHAT BOWIE TOWN CENTER HAS TO OFFER BOLD, BEAUTIFUL, BRILLIANT Girls Youth Empowerment Group Celebrates Its First Stepping Up Ceremony

SCHOOL OF THE ARTS PRODUCES YOUNG STARS

Here’s To Our Local Farmers

August 2020 | 1

Meet THE TALENTED

YOUNG AUTHORS FROM DJP FAMILY PRODUCTIONS


TABLE OF CONTENTS 10 4 P ublisher’s Corner

Celebrating Family & Community

5 L etter from the Editor Changes

6

6 L ocally Owned

Realtor Boyd Campbell

10 W hat’s Happening?

At Bowie Town Center

14 P age Turner

16

DJP Family Productions

16 G iving Back

14

Bold, Beautiful, Brilliant Girls Youth Empowerment Group

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN WARDELL

PUBLISHER & PRESIDENT

EDITOR IN CHIEF

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

VERONICA FOUNTAIN

ALYSON TURNER

ALYSON TURNER

Veronica@simplymagazines.net

Alyson@simplymagazines.net

ALEXIS MURRAY

2 | August 2020


18

22

18 H ealthy Living

Loving Care Pediatrics

30

22 B ackstage Pass

Duke Ellington School of the Arts

26 S imply Beauty

Summer Makeup Trends

26

32

30 T his Vs That

Back To School Prep - E-Learning Or Traditional

32 S imply Tasteful

Support Our Local Farmers

34 A nimal Kingdom

34

Dog Days of Summer

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

LAYOUT & AD DESIGN

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

RO MORENO

NATTHAPHON FOITHONG

VERONICA FOUNTAIN Veronica@simplymagazines.net

JOHN WARDELL STEPHANIE HARRIS JACQUELINE MARSHALL August 2020 | 3


Publisher’s CORNER

Celebrating Family and Our Community This year has been hard and it has been tough to enjoy our regular travel schedules, but we as a family and a community, are still pressing forward while creating good memories. This issue is especially dear to my heart. We have paid tribute to our local farmers and truly appreciate their efforts. We also give thanks to the organizations that give back to our community, such as Loving Care Pediatrics, Bowie Town Center, and Bold, Beautiful, Brilliant Girls Youth Empowerment Group—an organization whose mission is to guide and promote success in the young ladies in our area. This month, we also celebrate the students of Duke Ellington School of the Arts with their special gifts and talents along with our young authors of DJP Family Productions for publishing their first children’s book. Continue enjoying this summer and stay safe! Truly Yours,

Veronica Fountain Publisher & President

This issue is lovingly dedicated in memory of my mom, Margaret Fountain – 1946 to 2020 4 | August 2020


Letter from The Editor

CHANGES

The summer has flown by and now we are starting to get ready for Back-To-School season. Things probably look a lot different than last year, but we can still enjoy the last few weeks of break before our new routines start. Whether you are homeschooling, e-learning, or a mixture, this is a year of changes. Poets and musicians have long written about the inevitable changes of life and the beauty that we often see after a storm. While things may seem confusing or difficult now, change propels us into a wiser, more experienced version of ourselves, and that, dear readers, is something to look forward too. Stay hopeful, Bowie, and as always, be kind.

Alyson Turner Editor-In-Chief

August 2020 | 5


REALTORÂŽ Boyd Campbell

GRI, ePro, CRS, Century 21 New Millenium

Where Expertise, Education, & Problem-Solving Meet To Best Serve Homebuyers Article By Alyson Turner Photography Ro Moreno

One of the most significant emotional and financial investments you can make is buying a home. Whether you are a first-time home buyer, are looking to upgrade your family home, or ready to downsize for retirement, you need a Realtor who has an abundance of institutional and community knowledge. A realtor is the one to guide home buyers and sellers through a potentially overwhelming, and at times, intimidating, process with confidence. When it comes to expertise you want a Realtor who knows the complexities that come along with both buying and selling. Boyd J. Campbell, a Bowie native and a staple in the Bowie real estate market, has practiced real 6 | August 2020


REALTOR Boyd Campbell ®

Boyd Campbell’s interest in the real estate industry started long ago when he was a child. The realities of segregation and laws at the time that prevented Black Americans from purchasing their own homes molded him into the person he is today. “First and foremost, I grew up with a family who has a long history in land ownership; started as sharecroppers and owned property in Bowie. My roots on my father’s side go back to Bowie in the 1800s. I came from a background where land and home ownership were important. I lived through segregation including housing segregation,” Boyd said, “Immediately upon getting into the business it was very challenging because of my youthfulness and the complexity of the business; a business world that I did not come in from nor did my family. I knew that I wanted to work in an industry that was sustainable

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE Licensed Maryland Realtor since 1976, District of Columbia 1980 and Virginia 2006 to present. Supervising Broker Century 21 New Millennium, Bowie Maryland, former Century 21 Home Center BrokerOwner of 33 years and Broker-Owner of Nova Realty Group since 2000. Actively listing, leasing and selling residential and commercial real estate. Member of the National Association of Realtors, Maryland Realtors, Virginia Association of Realtors, Prince George’s County Association of Realtors, Greater Baltimore Board of Realtors, Northern Virginia Association of Realtors and the National Association of Real Estate Brokers. Experienced in consulting, training, mentoring and advising real estate practitioners and small business owners.

estate for over 43 years in the Washington D.C. Metro area representing buyers and sellers in residential, commercial leasing and sales in the state of Maryland, Northern VA and Washington DC. Boyd is Supervising Broker of Century 21 New Millennium, Bowie office and former owner of Century 21 Home Center. He is licensed in Washington DC, Principle Broker for Nova Realty Group and has an Associate Broker license in Virginia. In 2018 he took his talents to the state level, serving as the President of Maryland Realtors. His proficiencies include working with estate sales, vacant land, residential, and small to medium commercial properties. Boyd is committed to serving the best interests of his clients. He wants people to know that, “I am wholly committed to the industry and the business. I am wholly committed to buyers and sellers.” He often puts in long hours to meet his clients’ needs. August 2020 | 7


REALTOR® Boyd Campbell Contact Boyd Campbell today. m. (301) 980.6233 o. (410) 266.9005 Boyd.campbell@c21nm.com 1730 West Street, #200 Annapolis | MD| 21401 c21NM.com

and that I could work as an independent contractor. There was a lot of churn in the real estate market as a result of forced bussing. It also made for opportunities for people of color to buy which culminated in diverse neighborhoods.” Boyd credits the decision to go into real estate as one of the most significant in his life. “It turned out to be one of the best decisions I made ultimately. Home ownership is often one of the most important anchors in a person’s life. I sell houses-brick and mortar, but I also help get people into a home which is a state of mind. One of the most rewarding pieces to me is seeing my clients able to own a home and give them a sense of place. It is so very satisfying to see people, through home ownership, overcome financial challenges and other constraints and turn them into financial gain,” he says. “[As the years went on] My client pool became so diverse. I realized that if you did a good job, and you truly treated your clients as you would want to be treated it was magical how committed and how loyal they became. The job has helped me to build a life for myself and my family. I am hoping to do that for other families.” When people decide that it is time list their home or to begin searching for a home to buy, it can often be difficult to know where to start. One thing that Boyd hopes to impart upon clients and prospective clients is that he is there for them every step of the way. “I pride myself on my communication skills, I am an avid listener. I am as comfortable with a face-toface conversation as I am with a text messages and/ or other forms of communication,” Boyd says, “I am not a “sales person”. I am an educator and problem-

solver. The goal is to educate you about the process at the speed that you are comfortable with. Many people do not know that there are fifty-two people on average involved in a real estate transaction at some point. I will be the person who will lead you through this mission and make sure it gets accomplished. My clients will get the best service available along with a long history in the community paired with the best tools and resources at our disposal.” When it is a time to choose a Realtor, Boyd’s experience and tenure are significant advantages to his clients. He is competent and skilled at helping not only first-time buyers, but the homeowner who is changing direction and moving into the next phase of their life whether that is a family upgrading to a bigger home, or retirees looking to downsize. Along with his knowledge and experience, he continues his educational pursuits and training to ensure his proficiency and expertise to his clients’ benefit. Boyd’s history of investment in the community is demonstrated through programs such as Christmas in April, Adopt A Highway, school mentoring programs, and volunteering in city, county, and state committees and taskforces. During this time of stress in the light of the pandemic, Boyd wants his clients and prospective clients to know, “I am all in with my community. I was raised here and remain a property owner here. I work to serve the community. I go above and beyond to incorporate logical and predictable steps in this process. I really subscribe to the adage, ‘Treat people as you would like to be treated.’ And I do. That is my foundation.”

8 | August 2020


McKENNA JORDAN SALON BAR A Luxury Aveda-Concept Salon Bar At McKenna Jordan Salon Bar, we take great pride in the creative process of hair design and makeup artistry. We are always on trend and offer cutting edge services and products. In the ever-changing world of beauty and fashion, we understand that confidence comes from looking and feeling your best. It is our mission at McKenna Jordan to assist you in exploring and achieving your individualized beauty goals and needs.

McKenna Jordan offers five distinct bars-each serving their own unique lifestyle and beauty functions. • Enjoy a glass of champagne at our wine bar • Have your hair styled at your hair bar • Enhance your natural beauty at the makeup bar • Change up your look at the color bar or the wig & extension bar • Host birthday extravaganzas, bridal showers, launch parties, or a girl’s night out.

McKenna Jordan Salon Bar 7730 Harkins Road Suite C (34.32 km) 20706 Lanham, Maryland

301.731.8590 McKennaJordan.com FB & IG McKennaJordanSalon


WHAT’S HAPPENING At Bowie Town Center

?

Check out all of the exciting things coming to Bowie Town Center

Article By Alyson Turner Photography By John Wardell 10 | August 2020


WHAT’S HAPPENING? At Bowie Town Center

If you have lived in Bowie long enough, you’ve probably seen Bowie Town Center grow into a staple in the community—a place where everyone is welcome no matter what you are looking for. While Bowie Town Center is full of fantastic shops and delicious eateries that is not all it is known for. According to Deonna Davis, Marketing Manager, “Bowie Town Center partners with different members of the community to help educate and raise funds for different initiatives. Some events we have been a part of include, National Multiple Sclerosis 5k, Cancer Walks, Prince George’s County School Supply Drive, Sisters 4 Fitness 5k, ‘Cop for A Day’ with Bowie Police Department, ‘Food Give-A-Way for the Bowie Mayor Timothy Adams as well as Savor Bowie & Prince George’s Fall Festival via the organization, Concerts for Causes which raises money to donate musical instruments to underserved children.” This year Bowie Town Center not only has some exciting new additions, but the team has welcomed a new General Manager, Natahcia Scott. The coming months should bring the opening of Party HQ and new restaurant, Twisted Crab. Deonna tells us that they hope to have Party HQ full operational by September. “There will eventually be a Grand Opening event that will be open to the community. The community will have the opportunity to bowl, play the arcade games, play laser tag and enjoy the bar with their full menu of food items,” Deonna says, “Twisted Crab has plans to open in November.” There will also be a new restaurant opening in the old DuClaw building as well as three retail stores opening in various locations within the next year. There have also been several meetings to discuss the mixed use re-development of the former Sears building. The proposed project includes 800 residential units including multifamily apartments and townhomes, restaurants and shops, a new hotel and office space.

Meet Natahcia Scott Natahcia Scott is the new General Manager of Bowie Town Center. She is passionate about building businesses and bringing diversity to the Town Center through events and activities, community partnerships, and providing space and opportunities for locally owned and operated companies to thrive. Coming Soon To Bowie Town Center • Party HQ • Twisted Crab • Luxury Apartments & Townhomes • New Restaurants & Retail Shops • Half Note Lounge Restaurant • Summer Sweat Series • KidX Club Events

August 2020 | 11


WHAT’S HAPPENING? At Bowie Town Center

Bowie Town Center 15606 EMERALD WAY, BOWIE, MARYLAND 301.860.1401 BOWIETOWNCENTER.COM

Bowie Town Center is not only a retail space, but a place for families and people to come to enjoy and spend time. Listening to music at the ever—popular Summer Concert Series which draws close to a thousand people a week, festivals and free kid-friendly events, participating in community events such as Power Yoga on Thursdays, shopping local businesses and meeting their neighbors. While many things are on hold due to the pandemic, everyone at Bowie Town Center is hopeful and excited to see friends and neighbors in the future. 12 | August 2020


The Fashion Issue & Top Doctors COMING IN SEPTEMBER

Featuring: Renovate & Refine Shop Locally & Top Doctors

Every ad package includes a complimentary editorial feature.

RESERVE YOUR SPACE TODAY VERONICA@simplymagazines.net


PAGE TURNER DJP FAMILY PRODUCTIONS Diego and Dezirae Pena encourage and inspire with their stories. Article By Alyson Turner Photography By Stephanie Harris

Everyone has a story to tell. Some people express their stories in song, dance, painting, or acting. Diego and Dezirae Pena—tell their stories through the art of writing. They worked together on their first book, My Sister’s Hand to show the importance of valuing your family members and showing you care. According to their bio, both young authors aspire to write more books and to help others. “DJP Family Productions is owned and operated by Diego and Dezirae Pena. Diego and Dezirae are brother and sister who live in Maryland. Aspiring to make their dreams come true, they set a goal to write books about their life and share it with the world. They have put serious effort to not only be great storytellers and young business owners. Diego is a rising 5th grader ready to place his mark on the world. He is working on his first solo book and plans to publish by the end of 2019. He aspires to attend New York University College to be a music and film producer when he grows up. Dezirae is a rising 3rd grader eager to explore the world. She was recently crowned Little Miss Virginia in USA East Coast Pageant. She is working on her solo book and plans to publish by the end of 2019. She aspires to attend Howard University school of Dentistry when she grows up.” Their mother, Stephanie Harris, tells us that they began writing their stories as a family. “As a method to make reading more fun, we would create short stories together by putting [Diego’s] spelling words in the 14 | August 2020


selling other books and becoming widely published. So far all of their profits have been donated to charity and they have donated over 100 books. Diego and Dezirae have recently made meals for the Ronald McDonald House. You can purchase your copy of A Sister’s Hand, a book about an older sister that no longer feels valuable to her younger sister at DJPFamilyproductions.com. You may also visit them on Facebook.

stories. We had already started DJP productions in 2018 when his friends had said they wanted to buy some of our stories. We just wanted to create an easier and more fun way to learn.” Diego and Dezirae are the best of friends even though they are in different grades. They often study together and work on short stories together. “My daughter had to write a book for project at school. We [DJP Family Productions] had started a book, but for her assignment they worked on a new book together. Once that happened, we decided to make some edits to the book project and publish it.” In addition to fostering a love of reading, Stephanie has instilled good business sense and a desire to serve the community within her children, “I told them they should definitely think of a business that they would have to do all the work up front and earn residual income. It is hard to open a lemonade stand and set it up every week, when in fact you can work smarter and do something, for example, sell homemade packets of lemonade mix where you do the work up front.” Diego and Dezirae primarily work on the stories and ideas together. Stephanie then goes through the first several rounds of edits before sending to an editor. Since their first book, A Sister’s Hand, was published in 2019 they have been working on several stories to be published in the future. They want to expand their business, not only writing their own books, but

Here’s The Scoop From Diego & Dezirae What inspired you to write a book? We have always wanted to tell stories of about our life and all the wonderful things we do as a family. After vacations or family activities our mom would tell us to write a few sentences about what we did and how much we enjoyed it. We called it a memories journal. We would also use weekly spelling words from our school teachers to make short stories as a way to practice and our friends enjoyed reading them as well. How did My Sister’s Hand come about? How did you come up with this story? We wanted to make a story that most kids could relate too. Our two friends inspired the story when once visiting our home. The little sister wanted to join in some of the bigger kids’ activities and her older sister would become frustrated when being denied trying to help her. We knew most siblings don’t get along at times but we wanted to show how two siblings can still love each other even when they are not getting along. We thought of many different scenarios when siblings would fuss over things that were silly but had a bigger meaning behind the reason. What stories do you like to tell? We like to tell stories about things that everyone can relate too. Stories about life, life lessons, vacations, family and friendship. We plan to write more about things that could happen in children life.

August 2020 | 15


Giving Back CREATING STRONG LEADERS

Bold, Beautiful, Brilliant Girls Youth Empowerment Group’s First Annual Stepping Up Ceremony Article By Alyson Turner Photography By Jacqueline Marshall

Bold, Beautiful, Brilliant Girls Youth Empowerment Group works to foster success in young ladies within the community. This year BBB Girls Youth Empowerment Group held their first annual stepping up ceremony. “The girls have completed one year of leadership. The young ladies focused on total wellness including Leadership, Community Advancement, College Readiness, Workforce Development and Financial Literacy. This group of young ladies forged a sister hood and focused on loving themselves and others,” says founder Dr. Jacqueline Marshall, “In the midst of a pandemic they made donations to teen shelters and frontline workers. They were also able to center themselves with yoga and meditation. We want our girls to be great and to love the skin they’re in.” 16 | August 2020


Bold, Beautiful, Brilliant Girls Youth Empowerment focuses on the following goals: Community Advancement – Giving back to the community that you live in. Help others where you are able. How can you contribute to your area in a positive way? Leadership Development – Goes hand in hand with service to the community. Encouraging our young ladies how to make a difference and take that initiative the help others. Members will often bring helpful ideas to connect with other organizations such as food pantries or events such as the Alzheimer’s walk. Leadership is about thinking beyond yourself. Financial Literacy – Be responsible with your finances. Starting as young as middle school, we can learn what it means to be financially responsible. We work together with our families to gain financial literacy in our home. It is an important way for parents and daughters to connect with one another. College & Career Development – Many students enter college and must immediately take out student loans. We hope to help girls who want to go to college in order to minimize student loan debt. and to support them with our programs and goals. Many of our goals and partnerships introduce young women to different careers and different colleges. We also hope to develop sponsorships that would enable our young ladies to attend college with scholarships.

The stepping up ceremony allowed for a moment of reflection and celebration of the group’s accomplishments. Aliyah Waterman, a senior who will be attending Towson University this fall, received a $1,000 scholarship. Each year scholarships will be provided to seniors who are going to college or into a workforce development program. Bold, Beautiful, Brilliant Girls Youth Empowerment Group accepts young ladies throughout Prince George’s County in grade 6 through 12. They are located in Largo, Maryland right off the beltway near the new hospital. For more information or if you are interested in joining, visit BBBYeg.org and click on “Contact”. You can enter your contact information for a follow up and to become a part of the distribution list for upcoming events. Registration is free.

August 2020 | 17


HEALTHY LIVING LOVING CARE PEDIATRICS Dr. Johnson & Loving Care Pediatrics care for your children as if they were their own.

Article By Alyson Turner

When it comes to taking care of your children you want an expert who will look out for their well-being, who will listen, and who will use their expertise to provide the best available care and innovative resources for your family. Dr. Janet V. Johnson, of Loving Care Pediatrics, has over 21 years of experience, knowledge, and heart when it comes to preventative care, pediatric and adolescent treatment. Located in Hyattsville, Dr. Johnson provides general pediatric care promoting the health and well-being of newborns, infants, children and adolescents. Whether it is time for immunizations and annual physicals or if your son or daughter is feeling under the weather, Dr. Johnson and Loving Care Pediatrics collaborates with parents to ensure that they are successfully guiding their children to a healthy lifestyle. Dr. Johnson advises all parents to “Choose a pediatrician based on [your] own values and commitment to family and health.� 18 | August 2020


To reach Loving Care Pediatrics for information or to schedule an appointment,

call 301.403.8808

Services include: School Physicals, Immunizations, Sports Physicals, Travel Vaccines, Minor, Emergency Care, Ear Piercing, Sick & Urgent Care Visits for Children as well as offering CPR and First Aid Classes. Loving Care Pediatrics now has the ability to provide telehealth appointments in certain circumstances. Office hours for in-person appointments such as immunizations may vary at this time. Dr. Johnson reminds us that healthy habits are especially important during the pandemic. “Start with being healthy from the inside out. Start with good wholesome nutrition as well hand washing and sanitizing in general.� August 2020 | 19


Dr. Janet V. Johnson

• Doctorate of Medicine from the State University of New York at Buffalo University School of Medicine (1991) • Residency in Pediatrics with Howard University Hospital (1994) • Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics • Maintains affiliations with the Regional Institute for Children & Adolescents Baltimore and the Washington Adventist Hospital.

Loving Care Pediatrics 3311 Toledo Ter Ste C-201 Hyattsville, Maryland 301.403.8808

L O V I N G C A R E P E D I AT R I C S

Tomorrow’s Caterers Inc. Let DC’s Finest Caterers Create An Unforgettable Catering Experience for You!

Weddings Parties Corporate Catering Events Rental Services

We will deliver Catered Food to your House OR you can pick up at our commercial location. 7598 Commerce Lane Clinton, MD 20735

Services • School Physicals • Immunizations Sports Physicals • Travel Vaccines Minor Emergency Care • Ear Piercing Urgent/Sick Child Visit • CPR/First Aid Classes Janet V. Johnson MD, FAAP (301) 403-8808 3311 Toledo Terrace, Suite C-201, Hyattsville, MD

Do you want to make your event spectacular without having to go through the stress and work that comes with providing a top-shelf dining experience? Only Tomorrow’s Caterers Inc. can provide the true culinary experience you deserve. Your guests will experience an unforgettable meal as we redefine catering food as a sweet, savory, delectable, and tasty adventure. Many of our services include personalized service, customized menus, detailing the needs of our clients, in-home appointments, and payment options. We proudly serve the very best in catering excellence to Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia. We serve Bowie

20 | August 2020

• tomorrowscaterers.com • 301-297-7227


Professional Event & PR Photography orporate | Portraits Weddings | Families

Free Consultations | Customer Centric Creative Quality | Prompt service Reasonable & Clear Pricing

SUMMER SPECIAL!

“ It's Time

Headshots for 1/2 Price We’ll Come To You! Update Your Image With A Professional Headshot CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION & PRICING

to Ditch The SELFIE Ctmphotographybyro.com

301-346-1914 ro@ctmphotographybyro.com

At Capture The Moment Photography, the Preservation of Your Health and Safety During Your Session Is Our Top Priority. We Strictly Adhere to all COVID-19 Precautions, Safety and Sanitation Practices as Prescribed by the Professional August 2020 | 21 Photographers of America (PPA) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC)


BACKSTAGE PASS


Duke Ellington School of the Arts Duke Ellington School of the Arts is known for its storied traditions and it’s history of producing stunning artists, writers, performers, and entertainers. Article By Alyson Turner Photographs Courtesy of Dr. Monique Spell, Chamar Littlejohn & Vanessa Snyder

Washington D.C. native, composer and bandleader Edward Kennedy “Duke” Ellington was known for his discipline and resilience along with his ability to develop long lasting connections with others. These qualities along with his many other talents inspired the opening of Duke Ellington School of the Arts that has been teaching and guiding young people in grades 9 through 12 in rigorous academic studies coupled with an intensive arts program: Dance, Literary Media and Communications, Museum Studies, Instrumental or Vocal Music, Theatre, Technical Design and Production, or Visual Arts.

Article By Alyson Turner Photos By Mrs. Littlejohn, Monique Holmes & Duke Ellington Staff

D uke Ellingt on School of t he Art s

According to their website, “The Duke Ellington School of the Arts was established in 1974 and remains the sole D.C. public high school to offer a dual curriculum encompassing professional arts training and academic enrichment, in preparation for college and careers in the arts.” The mission of the school is to “nurture and inspire passion for arts and learning in talented students who might now otherwise have an opportunity to develop their artistic skills.” Duke Ellington Instrumental Music Teacher Lynne Gray tells us, “Duke Ellington School of the Arts offersa performancebased curriculum. Not only are our students given a very demanding academic curriculum, but they are also required to engage in weekly private lessons and performances. Each Senior in the both Instrumental and Vocal music are required to complete a 20 to 25-minute recital consisting of the repertoire they have been assigned by their given private instructor. This repertoire for Vocal students represents songs sung in Italian, French, German and English. Instrumental students are required to play Classical music from various periods.” She continues on to say, “In the midst of the pandemic all Seniors performed Senior Recitals, using platforms such as Youtube and other platforms that allow for pre-recorded performances. Parents and friends were able to virtually attend the recitals—programs were provided, audiences were allowed to attend—it was quite amazing. Even our Graduation was virtual—each department was given an opportunity to contribute a performance piece—prerecorded and shared virtually. This can only happen at a performing arts school with the amazing faculty and staff were have working with our students.” The tight-knit community of Duke Ellington School has pulled together during this challenging time to ensure that students have all of the resources they need to succeed. “Our ongoing mission has always been to create an environment that cultivates and develops the “Artist Scholar”. We are a close-knit school community that embraces the mission that it takes a “Village” to teach, respect, and care for our students. When we were faced with the challenges of the pandemic, it was amazing how we created throughout the school a way still engage

Duke Ellington School of the Arts 3500 R St NW

Washington, DC 20007 202.282.0123

info@ellingtonarts.org


with our students,” says Lynne Gray, “Teachers continued to teach via Zoom- Vocal technique classes, Instrumental technique classes, Dance classes, all of the classes taught in Theatre, Technical Design and Production, Visual Arts, Literary Media, Museum Studies. It was quite amazing how each Arts Department and Academic Department assured that our students will still receiving the same, yet shared in a different manner, instruction that would normally be given in person.” Despite the unusual end of school year many students have faced, the faculty, staff, and administration has made sure students know they are a family. Lynne Gray says it best, “As a teacher, the joy of connecting with my students was in making many phone calls. Not just to inquire about work and assignments, but first to find out how they were doing. We at Duke Ellington are committed to our students and their care, we as a team stepped up to be the supportive village not just for our students but also for [their families]. We are preparing for the Fall to provide our students with an engaging, intense, supportive, and creative learning environment. To teach the next generation of Artist Scholars.”

FEATURED ALUMNI Many alumni from The Duke Ellington School of Arts have become household names taking their talents to Broadway, opera houses, television, and beyond. The school works to give its young students the resources and the push that they need to follow their dreams into the arts. Dave Chappelle – Comedian Denyce Graves – Operatic mezzo-soprano Lamman Rucker – Actor Christylez Bacon – Grammy Nominated Progressive Hip-Hop Artist Sylver Logan Sharp – Singer & Songwriter, Lead Vocalist Tony Terry – Singer Ben Williams – Jazz Bassist Hank Willis Thomas – Conceptual Artist Nekisha Durrett – Artist & Painter Wallace Roney – Jazz Trumpeter Micaela Angela Davis – Writer, Fashion Expert, Image Activist

To learn more or to make a donation to fund young | August 2020 students’ dreams, 24 visit EllingtonSchool.org.


HELPING YOU GET YOUR FINANCIAL HOUSE IN ORDER SUREN G. ADAMS. ATTORNEY AT LAW ASSET PROTECTION ESTATE PLANNING (Wills, Trusts, Power of Attorney, and Advance Directives/Living Wills) ELDER LAW (Long-Term, Nursing Homes, Medicaid Planning) PROBATE/ESTATE ADMINISTRATION BUSINESS FORMATION (LLCs, Corps, S.Corps, Non Profits) STRATEGIC DEBT ELIMINATION (Chapter 7 and Chapter 13)

ADAMSLAWOFFICE.NET CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION MD (301) 805-5892 | DC (202) 327-5475 4201 NORTHVIEW DRIVE, SUITE 401 • BOWIE, MD 20716 SERVINGAugust THE MARYLAND AND DC AREAS 2020 | 25


SIMPLY BEAUTY New Beauty Trends That Everyone Should Try

Instagram @SavannahSylver Savannah Sylver

Article By Alexis Murray 26 | August 2020


New Beauty Trends That Everyone Should Try Nude Lipsticks and Gloss With everyone still on a stay at home order, many beauty lovers have converted their overtly flashy looks to a subtle one. Many have adopted the fresh face look called, “No makeupmakeup”, where one wears the least amount of makeup to keep it as natural as possible. Companies who specialize in nude colors of all ranges, such as WHIPPD Cosmetics and Mented Cosmetics, are rising to the top based on the trend. Instagram @JonetMakeup Jonet W.

In the midst of chaos, one can never go wrong with looking good. “When you look good, you feel good” is not only a phrase, but something to live by. In quarantine, many people have been keeping their selves occupied with fresh new looks and new products from their online shopping habit increasing over this time. While were still in the midst of a pandemic, social media helped by influencers and beauty professionals create new beauty trends. Here are some new beauty trends everyone should try.

Instagram @Naezrahlooks

August 2020 | 27


New Beauty Trends That Everyone Should Try Colored Eyeliner Just like the colored lashes, colored eyeliner has also become a summer trend amongst beauty lovers. This fun and playful trend spices up makeup looks that still stand out with face coverings. With eyeshadow being the prominent eye makeup for years, simply using eyeliner to create astronomical looks proves that the beauty influencers have gone further to expand its capacity of creativity.

Instagram @ Isabelle.de.vries Makeup Artist: Isabelle De Vries

Colored Eyelashes With many toning down their look for the sake of quarantine, some are not. The rise of the colored eyelash trend happened after many beauty influencers started to color their eyelashes with various colors of mascara. It is the perfect trend for the summer and even more perfect to stand out with masks on—due to COVID-19. Some like to keep it simple with the colored lashes and others like to match a great cut crease with them.

Instagram @ Isabelle.de.vries Makeup Artist: Isabelle De Vries

28 | August 2020


DJP FAMILY PRODUCTIONS

A Sister’s Hand by Diego & Dezirae Pena Has there been a time when you didn’t feel valued by a family member? A Sister’s Hand is about an older sister that no longer feels valuable as her younger sister begins to grow up and do things on her own. This sweet story, by brother and sister team, Diego & Dezirae, reminds us to always see the value within ourselves and those around us.

Purchase your copy of A Sister’s Hand at DJPFamilyProductions.com

Wardell’s Photography strives to provide ar tistic images for every event in Maryland, District of Columbia, or Virginia. We have specific exper tise in various forms of photography and we vow to bring our customer the most admirable images. We have specific exper tise in various forms of photography and we vow to bring our customer the most admirable images.

https://wardellbody45.wixsite.com/wardells-photography IG: Wardellbody Wardellbody45@ yahoo.com

301.905.7600 My photography is dedicated to my three daughters, Jamanda, Ashley & Lanaya.

August 2020 | 29


THIS VS THAT Prepping for Back-to-School

Article By Alexis Murray

Here are a few different ways that you can prep for back-to-school in the traditional classroom or under virtual learning

Going back to school can either be a joyful time or a draining one—depending on the individual. Some are excited to see what the new school year has to bring—where it’s new experiences, new friends, or new opportunities. Grade school kids may be excited to see their friends or a new backpack, college students can be excited to leave their hometown again, and grad school students could be excited for deeper knowledge in their chosen field. Some also are drained about the new school year approaching because of endless homework, study hours and tests. But, with the COVID-19 pandemic still in full effect, one might just not know what to look forward to.

understanding of their school work as they are faceto-face with teachers. Another benefit would be the socialization aspect. After months of quarantining and ending the school year early, students are eager to socialize and interact with peers—especially grade school students. This can also help the mental health of students who struggle to be alone or feel isolated at home.

As unforeseen circumstances unfold, it is a smart idea to prepare for back-to-school in person and online.

Although times are not normal, normalcy for students can ease their minds and provide more clarity and support to complete their assignments. School systems can offer more cleaning supplies (wipes, gloves, etc.) and masks to make sure everyone is staying safe and teachers can enforce or set up classrooms so everyone can stay socially distanced.

Traditional Classroom

Virtual Learning

School grounds and campuses will have a definite and unrealistic shift as teachers and administration try to keep students safe. The mere benefit of inclassroom teaching is that students can gain more

While in-person learning has some benefits, e-learning does as well. As some would say, taking classes online might possibly be the safest way for children to continue education during this time. With

30 | August 2020


Some teachers are also more attentive and available since it can be harder to teach online—with video

calls through companies such as Zoom, Skype or Blue Jeans, teachers are more receptive to extensive teaching and office hours. Documentation is another aspect that can be very beneficial. Everything will be submitted online which makes it easier for many teachers to keep track of assignments instead of handling multiple papers for students. Online classes cause also provide a sense of ease because students will not be worried if their health is at risk (which will not allow them to focus) and the environment will not be as intense and structured. As stated above, comfortability will be the most important aspect when it comes to online learning. Not only can one be in the comfort of their home. But also, comfortable knowing that their health is not at risk. It is important to be prepared to have the best online learning Experience.

In Classroom:

Online:

• • • •

online classes, students are able to complete their assignments anytime of the day (within a professor’s given time limit) and their health would not be at risk. For many students, especially college students, the flexibility of online classes will provide them more time to for jobs or internships.

• • • • •

Paper Pencils/Pens Bag/Backpack Laptop (optional; especially needed for college/ graduate students) Planner Notebooks Binders Masks Disinfected wipes

• • • • • • • •

Laptop or computer (or electronic device that allows one to complete assignments) Wi-fi connection/Internet Access A quiet study area Comfortable seating Printer (optional; only if needed) Earphones Planner/Calendar Traditional school supplies (ruler, pens/pencils, paper, etc.) Basic Software (Microsoft Office, Adobe, etc.)

August 2020 | 31


SIMPLY DELICIOUS Local Farmers Are Here For You CSA’s are a great way to shop locally and ensure you get the best produce and farm fresh foods around.

CSA stands for community supported agriculture. CSAs are important because they connect local farmers directly to consumers like you. Instead of stopping at a chain supermarket or grocery store, using a CSA you can get fresh produce and high-quality farm-fresh goods including meats and dairy. Many CSAs in the Washington DC Metro area will offer delivery or limited pick up. In a time of social distancing, this is a perk because you can avoid the grocery store altogether and you are sure to get the products that you want and need.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

A CSA is a subscription-type service in which you pay a fee upfront to the farmers who in return provide you with the products you love mostly on a weekly basis throughout the season. There are different types of CSA’s including a single farm CSAs and networks of farmers. There are several different options when looking into a CSA including paying for the whole season or picking the weeks that you need delivery. The best part is that you are supporting local farmers who work hard to serve our community. There are many different local farms that offer a CSA program to fit your needs.

32 | August 2020


Simply Delicious HOW CAN YOU GET STARTED SUPPORTING LOCAL FARMERS?

It’s simple and easy. We have compiled a list of several popular CSAs—single farm and networks—for you to choose from. Different farms may offer different products or selections, but you can guarantee that your items will be homegrown and taste delicious. Peruse a few of the CSAs we have chosen to see which is a match for you including location, offerings, delivery or pickup, seasons, types of subscription and more. And don’t forget to thank your farmer!

Single Farm CSAs Clagett Farm & CSA – Upper Marlboro, Maryland CBF.org Even’ Star Organic Farm – Lexington Park, Maryland EvenStarFarm.BigCartel.com Owl’s Nest Farm – Washington D.C. Owls-Nest-Farm.com Second Spring Farm – Whiteland, Virginia SecondSpringFarmCSA.com Windy Hill Family Farm – Centerville, Maryland windyhillfamilyfarm.org

Networks of Farmers 4P Foods – Warrenton, Virginia Little Farm Stand – Washington D.C. LittleFarmStand.com Washington’s Green Grocery – Washington D.C. Metro Area WggMarket.com

August 2020 | 33


Animal Kingdom The Dog Days of Summer What is Better Than A Day At the Beach With Your Four-legged Best Friend?

After a particularly long winter and a Spring spent staying home, it is nice to be able to get outdoors and take in some fresh air. You can bet that you are not the only family member that needs to get a little bit of exercise. This summer if you are taking your dog out on your adventures to see the sea, don’t forget these great tips to ensure you [and your furry friends] have the best time.

1. Choose a dog-friendly beach Make sure you check the rules and regulations for the particular beach you are choosing to visit. Some beaches don’t allow animals at all while other beaches let animals on during certain times of the day or season. You also don’t want to go to an overly crowded beach. It can make your dog nervous and it makes it hard to stay socially distant.

34 | August 2020

2. T each your dog to swim and make sure they like the water

Some dogs are born to swim and take to the water like a fish. Other dogs are happier just staying on the stand. Make sure you respect your dog’s personality and don’t push them into the water. You may need to show your dog how to enter the water and swim properly.


3. Find fresh water and lots of shade

If you think it is hot, then your dog probably feels even hotter. Make sure you have plenty of fresh water for them to drink. You will also need to keep an eye on your four-legged buddy to make sure they don’t try to drink stagnant water from puddles or other sources.

4. M ake sure to protect the pads of their paws

While most dogs are tough, their feet can easily be burned on hot asphalt, concrete or sand. If it is uncomfortable for you to walk in bare feet, it is most likely uncomfortable and dangerous for your dog. Also, when looking for a nice spot to relax, check the sand for glass, sharp objects, and insects. Even the best day can be ruined by stepping on a nest of fire ants.

August 2020 | 35

5. Don’t stay out too long. When your pup starts to tire out, it is time to head home.

Keep an eye on your dog and look out for signs of exhaustion or dehydration. It can be especially dangerous for a dog to continue jumping in the water and swimming when they should be resting. Just as you would take a break when you are feeling tired, you should ensure your dog doesn’t wear herself out.


It’s

Time

To Think Locally

ADVERTISE WITH SIMPLY BOWIE. Deliver your message to the most affluent consumers and businesses in our community.

VERONICA@SIMPLYMAGAZINES.NET

301.346.5634


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.