JUNE 2020
The Movers and Shakers
In Our Community: Here’s To Our Favorite Gentlemen
These Top-Notch
Realtors Will Help You Find Your Forever Home
Don’t Forget
to Grab The
Perfect Gift For the Awesome
Dad In Your Life
Looking For The Best Food In Town? Check Out The Battle of the Barbeques
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
06
Publisher’s Corner
07
Letter from the Editor
08
Around The Beltway Battle of the BBQ
Our Favorite Gentlemen
14
Movers and Shakers
20
Social Distancing
The Wedding Edition
Our Favorite Gentlemen Leaders In The Community
22
Check Out This Gorgeous Auto Restoration
4 | June 2020
ARTICLE
24
Rising Star
Realtor Yvonne Lee
30
28
Realtor Report
Your Neighborhood
Realtor Neo Hernandez
34
Simply Gifts
The Coolest Gifts for Dad
PUBLISHER & PRESIDENT VERONICA FOUNTAIN Veronica@simplymagazines.net EDITOR IN CHIEF ALYSON TURNER Alyson@simplymagazines.net CONTRIBUTING WRITERS ALYSON TURNER
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS NATTHAPHON FOITHONG BRANDON SMITH LAYOUT & AD DESIGN NATTHAPHON FOITHONG ADVERTISING DIRECTOR VERONICA FOUNTAIN Veronica@simplymagazines.net
June 2020 | 5
Publisher’s CORNER
Here’s To You It’s that time again—a new month, a new issue, and this one is just as gorgeous as the one before it. My personal kudos to our Editor-in-Chief Alyson Turner and Layout Designer Natthaphon Foithong; our team is exceptional. Our community and Business Owners have faced so many challenges the last three months, but we have pulled together as one. This month brings with it an abundance of joy—bright blue skies, warm summer nights and, of course, the celebration of Father’s Day on June 21. In this issue we will be highlighting some of our “Movers and Shakers”; men in our community—who lead with dignity and compassion. The following pages are filled with stories that inspire us all to appreciate the men in our lives and to strengthen the connection we have with our fathers, brothers, sons, and friends. So, to the men of Bowie—May you find a quiet moment to enjoy this issue we’ve lovingly dedicated to you.
Veronica Fountain President & Publisher Simply Bowie Magazine
6 | June 2020
Letter from The Editor
To Our Favorite Gentlemen The last few months have been a strange and interesting time in history. Mostly, we have stayed home and spent time social distancing from our community. A new chapter is upon us as our country, state, and city begin to slowly reemerge and that is exciting and scary all at the same time. It is important to remember to continue to take things one day at a time and as always be kind to one another. It is also important to remember that in June, we celebrate our favorite gentlemen! Our fathers and grandfathers, our brothers, our uncles, our nephews, this issue is here to celebrate you! So, Happy Father’s Day to all of the dads and dad-figures in our lives. We’ve created an issue that we hope you will enjoy full of delicious food, interesting stories, projects and more. During this challenging time, thanks for always being with us! Stay well and be happy.
Alyson Turner Editor In Chief
June 2020 | 7
BATTLE OF THE
BBQ With summer heating up, you know we are craving some excellent BBQ. It is a true summer dish and there is no better time to try out some authentic local spots. With grilled and smoked meat classics, you are sure to fill up and head home satisfied with every last bite. If you are looking for your new favorite BBQ restaurant, check out our top contenders! 8 | June 2020
ARTICLE
June 2020 | 9
BATTLE OF THE BBQ
DCity Smokehouse Washington DC Home to DC Style BBQ, the DCity Smokehouse is known for its smokehouse BBQ that is loved by both locals and visitors to Washington DC. They offer “great smoked meat classics and signature Mac & Jack Cheese. DCity has great brews on draft & bottles along with a full bar to go with your Half Smoke or DCity Pit Smoked Wings!” A few of the highlights on the menu include the bbq sampler platter with a ½ pound of brisket, ½ pound of rib tips, and 2 medium sides, the Tommy Gun sandwich piled high with turkey, cheddar-jack cheese, crispy onions, house bbq sauce, and cilantro ranch, and, of course, DCity Pit Smoked Wings served with a delicious side of cilantro ranch. These are just a few of the mouthwatering items on their menu. DCitySmokehouse.com.
Hardy’s BBQ Bowie Next up, is Hardy’s BBQ right here in Bowie. Get ready for old-fashioned pit-smoked barbecue with real smoke and real flavor. Hardy’s is a family owned and operated small business. Corries & Roxie Hardy own Hardy’s Divine Ribs & Chicken LLC. They operate “Hardy’s BBQ Food Truck & Catering” in Montgomery County MD, Baltimore City, Prince George’s County, Howard and Fairfax Counties. The Hardy’s BBQ carryout location is offering their authentic BBQ from “a live-wood smoker stoked with genuine hickory, oak and maple logs. [They] hand-rub the meats with a custom blend of spices and cook for hours to extract the natural flavors.” Some of their offerings include ribs, pork rib tips, chicken, smoke wings, beef brisket, pulled pork, pulled chicken, and traditional sides.” HardysBBQ.com.
Rick’s NC Barbecue Lothian This barbecue carryout specializes in authentic North Carolina BBQ with 3 to 4 pound Baby Back Slabs, pit beef, and “World-Famous coleslaw.” Their BBQ options include slabs and ½ slabs of ribs and platters. Rick’s offers a variety of sandwiches including pit beef, chicken salad, chicken breast, and ribs. Standing in its own category is their North Carolina Pulled Pork available in both a platter option and a pulled pork sandwich option. To go along with your meal, you can choose from traditional sides including the coleslaw. This North Carolina Pork is true to its Southern roots. Facebook.com/RicksNCBBQ.
10 | J une 2020
BATTLE OF THE BBQ
Texas Ribs & BBQ Clinton Texas Ribs & BBQ offers a wide variety of delectable meal choices. Their BBQ entrees include Baby Back Ribs, smoked chicken platters, sampler platters with pit smoked ribs, pit smoked chicken leg & thigh, brisket or pulled pork. They also have grilled boneless pork chops and smoked chicken. In addition to their beloved BBQ options, they also offer a variety of choices including prime rib, NY Strip, burgers, sandwiches, appetizers and more. This BBQ has been praised as some of the best in the state and you don’t want to miss out. TexasRibsAndBBQ.
The Rolling Rib II Upper Marlboro The Rolling Rib Part II is known for its blazing flame barbecue. The Rolling Rib is a seasonal restaurant that opens in March of each year. They offer pork BBQ ribs, chopped BBQ, rib tips, and pork chops. You can also try beef brisket, chicken, wings, and a variety of seafood along with traditional sides. TheRollingRib.com
Which BBQ is at the top of your list? Are there others you think we should try?
Vote
for the winner of the Battle of the BBQ
on Instagram @SimplyBowieMagazine. June 2020 | 11
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MOVERS AND SHAKERS Our Favorite Gentlemen Leaders In The Community
LARRY HOGAN GOVERNOR OF MARYLAND Governor Lawrence “Larry” J. Hogan Jr. has been supporting the State of Maryland and his constituents during the pandemic and State of Emergency. He, along with his administration and advisors, has worked diligently to ensure the safety of Marylanders from Covid 19 as well as the health and well-being of those in this state. His bio shares many of his top priorities while in office and his accomplishments.
Governor Hogan was sworn in as the 62nd governor of the State of Maryland on January 21, 2015. In 2018, he was overwhelmingly re-elected to a second four-year term, receiving the most votes of any Maryland gubernatorial candidate and becoming only the second Republican governor to be re-elected in the 242 year history of the state. In his first inaugural address, Governor Hogan reminded citizens of Maryland’s history as a state of middle temperament and pledged to advance the best ideas, regardless of which side of the political aisle they come from. He is recognized nationally as a strong, independent leader who consistently delivers real results and achieves common sense, bipartisan solutions. Immediately upon taking office, Governor Hogan took decisive action to create a more business-friendly future for Maryland by bringing tax relief, balanced budgets, and long-term fiscal responsibility to the state. He eliminated or reformed nearly 850 regulations, reduced or eliminated 250 fees across state government, and cut tolls at every single state facility for the first time in more than 50 years. In total, Governor Hogan has already delivered $1.25 billion in tax, toll, and fee relief for hardworking middle class families, retirees, and small businesses. As a result of these efforts, Governor Hogan is effectively growing Maryland’s private sector, creating jobs, and turning the state economy around. The governor’s first year in office was the most successful in total job creation and private-sector job growth in the last 15 years, and after previously losing over 100,000 jobs, Maryland has created 120,000 jobs under his leadership. Governor Hogan believes that every child in Maryland deserves access to a world-class education, regardless of what neighborhood they happen to grow up in. He has invested a record $32 billion in local K-12 education funding, and is committed to thinking outside the box and advocating for innovative solutions to close the performance gap and prepare children for the jobs of the future. In 2018, the governor worked with members of the
legislature to enact landmark school safety measures. He is also leading the fight for more accountability in local school systems and advocating for new initiatives to provide relief from student debt, greater access to higher education, and to make college more affordable. As chairman of the six-state Chesapeake Executive Council, Governor Hogan has made historic progress to protect the state’s most precious natural asset: the Chesapeake Bay. He has fully funded all bay restoration efforts, and committed a historic $5 billion toward wide-ranging bay initiatives. As a result, the Chesapeake Bay received its highest score for water quality in recorded history. In addition, under the governor’s leadership, Maryland continues to be a national and international leader in combating greenhouse gas emissions and has some of the most stringent air quality standards in the nation. To get Marylanders moving, Governor Hogan is rebuilding the state’s transportation infrastructure though historic investments in roads, bridges, and transit. The state is moving forward on top priority road projects in every jurisdiction, fixing every single structurally deficient bridge in Maryland, and has resurfaced more than half of the state highway system. In 2017, Governor Hogan broke ground on the long-anticipated $5.6 billion Purple Line light rail project in Montgomery and Prince
MOVERS AND SHAKERS – OUR FAVORITE GENTLEMEN LEADERS IN THE COMMUNIT Y
LARRY HOGAN AND WIFE
LARRY HOGAN AND FAMILY
George’s Counties, which represents the largest Public-Private Partnership in America. He was the first leader in the region to propose a real solution to save the Washington, D.C. Metro system, and he introduced a transformative Traffic Relief Plan to widen the Capital Beltway, I-270, and the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, which represents the largest transportation PublicPrivate Partnership (P3) in North America. Governor Hogan has consistently displayed bold and effective leadership, and not just when it’s easy. He is shining a spotlight on the heroin and opioid crisis and using every tool at his disposal to bring a heightened level of awareness to this threat that is tearing apart families and devastating communities. One of his first actions as governor was to establish the Maryland Heroin and Opioid Emergency Task Force, and he immediately implemented nearly all of their 33 comprehensive recommendations. He was the first governor in America to declare a full-scale State of Emergency in response to the opioid crisis, and has committed $800 million toward fighting the heroin, opioid, and substance abuse epidemic with a four-pronged approach of education, prevention, treatment, and enforcement, led by the Opioid Operational Command Center. Governor Hogan was diagnosed with aggressive Stage 3 non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Over the next five months, he underwent 30 days of aggressive, 24-hour chemotherapy,
multiple surgeries, spinal taps, scans, drug therapies, and other procedures. On November 16, 2015, he announced that he was 100% cancer free and in complete remission. Since waging his own fight, Governor Hogan has made it his mission to raise awareness for those battling cancer and support efforts to find a cure. With a proven track record of delivering real results to change Maryland for the better, Governor Hogan’s principled, bipartisan, common sense leadership extends to both the regional and national stages. In 2019, he was unanimously elected to lead America’s governors as chairman of the nonpartisan National Governors Association (NGA), which represents all 55 U.S. states, territories, and commonwealths. As NGA Chair, Governor Hogan launched a yearlong national infrastructure initiative, Foundation for Success, which is focused on rebuilding, repairing, and modernizing America’s infrastructure in ways that will grow the economy, create jobs, and meet the needs of the 21st century. Prior to his election in 2014, Governor Hogan – who had never before held elective office—spent more than 25 years building and running small businesses in the private sector. In 2011, he founded Change Maryland, the largest nonpartisan grassroots organization in state history, which is dedicated to bringing fiscal responsibility and common sense to state government.
Governor Hogan is married to Yumi Hogan, a first generation Korean-American, artist and teacher. She is the first Asian first lady in Maryland history and the first KoreanAmerican first lady in United States history. They have three daughters: Julie, Jaymi, and Kim; four grandchildren; and two shih tzu dogs, Anna and Chessie. Governor Hogan and First Lady Yumi Hogan were instrumental in securing 500,000 test kits for Covid 19 from Korea in Operation Enduring Friendship. June 2020 | 15
MOVERS AND SHAKERS Our Favorite Gentlemen Leaders In The Community
JOE CLAIR RADIO HOST, COMEDIAN, COMMUNITY MEMBER & REALTOR JoeClair.com Joe Clair is known for his larger than life personality and natural ability to make people laugh. He has always been drawn to performing even when he was pursuing another career field. People around him were encouraging him to pursue other avenues, the support of his professors at Morgan State led him towards his passion. “To be quite honest when I was in college my professors were telling me to do something that I was good at as opposed to what others were pushing me towards. I excelled in public speaking and media, specifically in front of the camera,” Joe says, “We made an independent film in my senior year of college. Upon graduation I got a job as a social worker and it was [still] eating away at me to do stand up. My friend talked me into starting at a comedy club. I was hooked and entered a competition with the final round at Constitution Hall with D.L. Hughley and Bernie Mac. I had to perform alongside three other finalists and that night I decided to quit my job and become a comedian full time.”
Joe decided right then and there to pursue his dream. 27 years later, he has an impressive list of credits as morning show host, radio personality, on-air veteran, entertainer, comedian actor, and philanthropist. The native of Seat Pleasant, Maryland currently hosts WPGC’s 95.5 – “Joe Clair Morning Show.” He is well-known for his appearances on HBO’s Def Comedy Jam and as a host of BET’s “Rap City” where he introduced rap and hiphop stars. He has also hosted “Madd Sports” and BET’s “Take The Cake” among many other things. Joe credits his mother for encouraging him to keep going. “The best piece of advice I have ever gotten is from my mother who has instructed me to be open to ALL possibilities; being open to the possibility that I could go to college, that I could be a comedian, that I could be married and have a family. This freed me up to imagine more, to pursue more, to do more and to be more. I still remind myself to be open and to do what I can do. There are still things that I would like to do and other levels to reach. Being open to the possibilities guides me onto the next step and it gets me to places I would never have gotten if I hadn’t listened to that advice, he tells us, “I would say the same exact advice that my mother had given me [to someone looking to pursue a career in comedy]. I would say the exact same advice that my mother had given me. Be open to the possibilities. Open yourself up. There is a big world out there. Why not try to do what you think your hero did? Why not you? I would say be open to all of the possibilities.” After all of his travels and experiences, Joe Clair is happy to be home with his wife and family, serving his community and
doing what he loves, “I love living in bowie. I have lived in NYC, I lived in Atlanta and I have lived in Los Angeles, but to be raising a family here in Bowie, in this day and age, is like winning. I am overjoyed to be living in Bowie, in Prince George’s County, I am close to the people I grew up with,” Joe says, “The people I know who are school teachers, business owners, in county government. These are people that I grew up with in elementary school and summer camp. It is an incredible thing to be raising a family here around these amazing people. I feel gratitude that my travels have led me right back here; 10 minutes from where I grew up. The really dope part about it is [throughout my life] I have met so many people and had so many experiences. It is what I set out to do to be open to the possibilities.” Along with all of his other avenues, these days Joe Clair serves his community in another way as well by helping people find their forever homes. We have a realty brokerage here in Bowie. We are called Berkley Advisors. It is such an exciting thing for me. I got into real estate to be an investor and found a love for educating people on buying and selling real estate. I practice with my wife, Nyemah Clair, and she is one of the agents with me. We serve Bowie and we serve DC, MD, and VA. It is something strange to add to my collective career. I took a mentor’s advice and it speaks to my background into social work,” Joe says, “In the community I get to speak with politicians, developers and so many other interesting people. I have the support of my wife who is extremely knowledgeable and is the star of the family. It is mind blowing to me to be able to help someone buy their first home.”
16 | June 2020
MOVERS AND SHAKERS – OUR FAVORITE GENTLEMEN LEADERS IN THE COMMUNIT Y
What words of encouragement can you offer during this pandemic?
“
I want to say keep yourself secure and safe at home. I would also like to offer that we need to be thankful and have gratitude even in this time when we think that times are so dark. We are seeing example after example after example of people coming together to show the best parts of humanity and humility that the human race has to offer. This is something we have never seen, and while people can concentrate on the downside let’s not forget that there are people that are on the front lines; people out there assisting in the grocery store and the bank making the community safe along with our teachers helping our students still have education. Our parents who are out here making sure that our kids are safe while staying strong and having grace and mercy and strength while we are in the middle of it. Don’t forget after the pandemic is over to hold on to that we are still a community and always have a need for our biggest, greatest, grandest selves to show up and be the rock. June 2020 | 17
MOVERS AND SHAKERS Our Favorite Gentlemen Leaders In The Community
D. MICHAEL LYLES, CITY ATTORNEY CITY OF ANNAPOLIS OFFICE OF LAW Michael Lyles, has been practicing law for over 25 years. He was inspired by seeing people treated unjustly by others when he was a child. “I saw the law as a way to help people with no other outlet, to protect folks and to be involved with changing laws for the betterment of society. Most of my inspiration and influence came from watching Perry Mason on television. It looked fun and engaging watching him with his clients; helping people,” Mr. Lyles says, “I have been involved with local government and municipal politics this particular position looked like a good combination of my legal background and my inspiration with government law and litigation. I was appointed the City Attorney for the City of Annapolis in December 2019. Prior to that I was in private law practice as the Founder and Principal of D. Michael Lyles & Associates, P.C. Attorneys at Law, and Of Counsel to the law firm of Stroud Priest, L.L.C., with offices in Maryland and the District of Columbia”
Mr. Lyles attended Iowa State University, and the University of the District of Columbia, where he received a BBA in Finance. He received a Juris Doctorate degree from The Catholic University’s Columbus School of Law in Washington, D.C. Mr. Lyles is licensed to practice in all courts of the District of Columbia and Maryland and before the Supreme Court of the United States. He is also an adjunct professor at University of Maryland Global Campus, where he teaches employment law. When asked what advice he would offer to those wishing to pursue a career in law, he says this, “Talk to a lot of lawyers who practice in different areas of law. Get a solid foundation of law [and an idea] of what they do on a daily basis. I found so many people who go to law school and they don’t like it. You want to avoid that by doing your research and learning about the various areas of law. Many people think they want to be in the courtroom, but that is not all there is. Find something you enjoy; an area of
interest for you. I have seen my fair share of frustration. It is a total waste of money, time, and energy to find out that you don’t want to practice law. Truly do you research.” Mr. Lyles then shared the best piece of advice that he has received, “I think the biggest piece of advice professionally I have received is don’t’ let other people outwork you. Always be consistently relentless in representing your clients and make sure that you have done all you can to represent their issues successfully and don’t leave any stone unturned and that has always been helpful to me.” When he is not working tirelessly for his clients and city, Michael Lyles is a jazz enthusiast who loves to spend time with his family. “I would like to thank my wife and my children and my family for being so supportive of me in my journey practicing law. This is one that has had its up and downs professionally and I am just so thankful to have had this family support system.”
Can you provide our readers some words of encouragement through these challenging and confusing times?
In regards to Covid 19 and the State of Emergency in Maryland and across the country, I would like to say to our neighbors is to stay strong and stay committed to safety of our community. Continue to do all that we can to lift up those who are suffering right now. Annapolis.gov 18 | June 2020
MOVERS AND SHAKERS Our Favorite Gentlemen Leaders In The Community
ADRIAN BOAFO MAYOR PRO TEM & CITY COUNCILMEMBER DISTRICT 3 BOWIE, MARYLAND Mayor Pro Tem & District 3 Councilmember Adrian Boafo has a deep love for his hometown of Bowie. He attended DeMatha Catholic High School and the University of Baltimore, graduating in 2016 with a Bachelors in Government & Public Policy. He served as University’s first AfricanAmerican Student Government President. Adrian also received his Masters of Business Administration from American University’s Kogod School of Business. Adrian went on to work for Members of the United States House of Representatives. First, he joined the House Democratic Caucus as a press intern under the leadership of then Representative Xavier Becerra (CA34). Later, he joined the office of Congressman Ruben Kihuen (NV-04) working as a National Press Assistant. Currently, he works as Campaign Manager of Hoyer for Congress, the Maryland political organization and campaign representing Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (MD-05). “When I worked in Congress, I actually saw leaders working getting things done. I never imagined working in politics as a young person. I didn’t’ even consider the power of government until I was a junior or senior in college. I had planned on doing a business major.” In November 2019, Adrian was elected to serve the residents of District 3 and became the youngest serving Mayor Pro Tem of Bowie. He tells us, “I was inspired by [President] Obama’s 2016 speech to get out there and make a difference in your community that inspired me to run for office.” Councilmember Boafo has this advice for those who are hoping to pursue a career in government or politics, “Do it for the right reasons. I think there is a clear national trend of folks doing it for power or fame. Do it for the right reasons and you will be more effective. Be humble and be patient. Change doesn’t
happen overnight. You will have people who disagree with you and who will stop things you want to do. You are resilient and you need to keep working, but if you do [the job] for the right reasons you will be able to help your community,” Councilmember Boafo says, “At times you are going to have to make hard decisions. At times you are going to have to make these decisions that people aren’t going to like, but you owe the people who elected you truth, honesty and hard work. That is the epitome of what it means to be an elected official.” Adrian Boafo hopes that even in the face of this pandemic we can continue to make progress in our community, “These are unique times and we have had a historic election. Hopefully, we can use this momentum to turn [thoughts]into action. This unique group of people from both sides of the aisle can make a difference.”
What encouraging words do you have for people during this pandemic?
We are a resilient community. We are where small-business owners come to thrive. We are where so many people come to thrive, and we in the City of Bowie are unique and amazing people; some of the most amazing people in the country. We are putting our heads together and are going to get through it. The thing that warms my heart about Bowie is that you see neighbors doing things to help neighbors, you see people leaving encouraging messages in sidewalk chalk and reaching out to neighbors on the Nextdoor app You see people really caring and that is something I am really happy about. AdrianBoafo.com June 2020 | 19
Social Distancing
The Wedding Edition
Love Always Wins In a world where social distancing has become the cultural norm many facets of our everyday lives have been changed. Things are looking quite different. Many spring and summer events including graduations, proms, and weddings have had to be postponed or adjusted. This difficult time has led to some beautiful and creative memories for everyone involved.
20 | June 2020
SOCIAL DISTANCING : THE WEDDING EDITION
For one lovely couple, that meant hosting their wedding social distancing style. While things may not have gone as originally planned, the happiness and joy from the wedding party radiates from all sides even behind the masks.
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Restoring Cars To Their Original Glory Making rough bodies shine is what Chris Kuchem does best. But don’t think about bringing him just any vehicle to restore—only collector or exotic cars get his highly skilled attention. “We combine modern and old school techniques to make our client’s cars just as they want them—from concours correct to modified to customs and hot rods,” reads the description of Kuchem’s shop, “We’re not a typical ‘collision’ body shop—we don’t work on daily driver cars.” Kuchem began doing car restoration work 40 years ago. This self-taught craftsman got his first car when he was a freshman in high school and did the painting himself to save money. That first car in 1971 was “a horror,” according to Kuchem. His next painting project was an Opel Rallye Kadett, an experience that “turned out fairly good.” From there, friends took notice and began asking for his help.
Photography
Brandon Smith
Throughout high school and college, where he earned a degree in mechanical engineering, Kuchem did paint work on the side to help with expenses. He worked on Mustangs, Camaros, MGs and “everything else that was popular in those days,” he says.
22 | June 2020
RESTORING C ARS TO THEIR ORIGINAL GLORY
Those days slowly faded away as Kuchem started a successful manufacturing business. This 27-year venture relegated his restoration work mostly to the sidelines until he acquired his dream car—a 1969 Shelby GT-500. This painstaking concours restoration is how he learned the ins and outs of part selection, paint methods and other techniques. And again: Friends took notice. This time it was a neighbor who owned a 1955 Studebaker. After Kuchem put his finishing touch on the paint job, his neighbor took the newly restored vehicle to a Studebaker swap meet in South Bend, Ind., where it won first in class. In light of this success and at the urging of his friend, Kuchem decided to finally take his love of collector car restoration off the sidelines to start Chris’ Garage. Since diving in to his newfound profession in 2004, Kuchem’s business has grown by word of mouth. Although Chris’ Garage offers complete restoration service, its real forte is body work.
“We take the body down to the frame and take the car bodies to Evansville [Ind.],” Kuchem says. “The shop there does chemical stripping that takes off all of the paint and rust—inside and out. We then get a completely bare car with nothing on it so we can start from ground zero. We can control everything from that point.” That level of quality control is evident in the happy reviews left by clients of Chris’ Garage at Angie’s List. One car enthusiast reports that Kuchem “goes out of his way to learn whatever it takes to bring perfection to his subject … [My ’71 Datsun 240 Z] has incredible lines, perfect gaps and a finish that a blind man could shave in.” Among Kuchem’s favorite projects have been working on Porsches and Studebakers. According to Kuchem, Porsches are remarkable for their unique metal. “You don’t need a sledgehammer to bang out a dent. You can almost use a rubber mallet,” he says. As for Studebakers, he says they are amazingly well put together. “They were far out in front of their competition in the day because of how well they assembled their cars.”
June 2020 | 23
Rising Star Exceptional Service Outstanding Results 24 | June 2020
RISING STAR: EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE. OUTSTANDING RESULTS
Rising Star Exceptional Service. Outstanding Results. Text Alyson Turner
Realtor Yvonne T. Lee II is known for helping clients change their lives. Whether you are selling, buying, or renting. She is with you every step of the way. Her specialties include Buyer’s Agent, Listing Agent, Relocation, Short-Sale, Property Management and more. Yvonne is also a 2020 GCAAR Award Winner. She gets results and she makes dreams come true. She goes above and beyond for her clients. She says, “My clients are my favorite part of the job. The connection that I make with my clients while being able to make their dreams come true. For my sellers its being able to get the maximum amount of money for their sale and to be able to have that life-changing money. I work to sell at a higher amount. My buyers can come to me with little or no credit at all. Having them get into a home changes lives.” Yvonne’s hard work and diligent pursuit for her clients makes her a rising star in the industry. Her clients can expect only the best from her. “My clients can expect to be treated like they are my family. They can expect honesty and my commitment of excellence to them.” Her bio tells the story of when her father purchased his own home. He was the first of 8 siblings to do so. Yvonne writes, “As a little girl growing up, I can remember the stories being told around the dinner table at family gatherings about how my dad uplifted the status of our kin with being the first of eight siblings to purchase a home. Those moments were so joyful as they inspired an elevated level of pride and hope to my loved ones who came up from humble beginnings. At the time, my sister and I did not fully understand why my dad’s home purchase was such a big deal and why it was so important to our family. It wasn’t until years later when we became adults and had families of our own that we committed to the idea of wanting better for ourselves and the dearest people in our lives.” During the pandemic, Yvonne is committed to helping her clients find their perfect fit while being safe and secure. With showing homes we have to wear masks, gloves, and really not touch anything in the house. This is really how the clients’ experience has changed. As far as my business, selling a house everything is done electronically,” Yvonne says, “For the buyers a lot more of the showings are done virtually. The buyers are more targeted instead of seeing 10 houses now we are seeing two houses because they can see the homes online first.” She is encouraging her clients and prospective clients to act now if you are in the market. “Right now if you have a house to sell put it on the market because the inventory is so low and there are many buyers because there are low interest rates. For those looking to buy get with an agent that has good connection that also knows how to strategize to get your offer accepted.” Yvonne feels a true calling to her clients and doing the best she can for them. “My dad’s home purchase and how it made my family feel has created a strong calling in me to bless people with that same feeling of pride and elevation. I love putting people in homes, it offers families the opportunity for something better.”
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RISING STAR: EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE. OUTSTANDING RESULTS
GCAAR Rising Star Exceptional Service. Outstanding Results. KW Capital Properties Licensed in DC, MD & VA
DMVHomeJourney.com Yvonnetlee.kw.com YvonneLee@hotmail.com
301-613-6070
Facebook @YvonneLeeSellsHomes
Contact Yvonne T Lee II today with help for all of your real estate needs.
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301-575-0575 | www.OldGloryHD.com During the COVID-19 pandemic, Service & Parts as well as Sales (by appointment only) will remain open Monday-Saturday 10-5
26 | June 2020
FLIP. CLICK. TAP.
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Realtor Report Arian Lucas Arian Lucas Team Lofgren-Sargent Real Estate (443) 569-2724
Bill Franklin, Agent Long & Foster Crofton/ Bowie Tri-County (301) 346-5690
Brian Frank Loviano Marzo Brian Marzo (410) 834-1526
Bridgette Bradshaw Samson Properties (202) 486-9987
Bruno Tarquinii Fairfax Realty Elite (240) 418-3809
Caprika Realty (866) 274-9884
Cheryll A March Exit Bennett Realty (301) 806-8117
Cindy Taylor CENTURY 21 New Millennium. (301) 646-1319
Jason Donovan Team RE/MAX Leading Edge (410) 956-4177
Jachel Smalls ExecuHome Realty (443) 219-3868
Jessica Young RE/MAX Executive (443) 623-8271
John Lesniewski RE/Max United Real Estate (301) 702-4228
Joy A Haskins Samson Properties (202) 345-3105
Lisa Griggs (443) 956-3109
28 | June 2020
REALTOR REPORT
Lynn Hansford Long & Foster Crofton/ Bowie Tri-County (410) 721-1500
Scott B Smolen, Real Estate Consultant RE/MAX Leading Edge (301) 651-1261
Tiffany Dodson Samson Properties (202) 285-2121
Tony McMahon (240) 682-1164
Wemmy Adeboyejo Redfin Corp (202) 644-8447
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Neo Hernandez, SRS Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc Recognized as one of the top 100 realtors in 2019 by Top Magazine Inducted into the VIP Women of the Year (2016 & 2017) By the International Association of Women
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(301) 848-8215 neo@longandfoster.com NeoHernandez.com
Neo
Hernandez Your Neighborhood Realtor
30 | June 2020
hen it comes to buying a home, it is often the biggest investment of your life. Whether you are buying or selling, you want your realtor, your team, to be trustworthy and on your side. Neo Hernandez is a champion for her clients. She assists clients in buying and selling homes, preapprovals, inspections, negotiating contracts and of course, getting their keys. Her team at Long & Foster provides personal consultations to sellers to help prep for the selling of your home as well as assistance in rearranging, design, and minimal staging to put the house on the market. She also prides herself on educating her clients in order to have a positive outcome.
NEO HERNANDEZ: YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD REALTOR
Neo says, “One of the things that I am most proud of is providing regular seminars on home buying and selling, getting clients familiar with the process. I do this and it is a service of mine due to my own negative experience. Back in 2007, I had lost my home when the market crashed. I had hired a realtor and they stole my house when things went sideways. I tell people that it happened to me because I was relying on the expertise of other people without reading what I was signing. That is how I got into real estate. I wouldn’t want that to happen to anyone else. I would never suggest to my clients to do something I wouldn’t want to do myself.” “I am offering these seminars virtually. Every other Saturday, guests can reply via open invite on Facebook and Instagram. Once they RSVP for these completely FREE events we go over the process of buying and selling. Prior to the pandemic I offered these once a month in a classroom. Now, we can also do virtual open houses and virtual tours when showing homes. Right now, if a buyer doesn’t feel comfortable going to see a home, we have the technology to contact the client via video conference so it feels like they are present in the showing of the house.” Neo enjoys educating her clients on the process. “My favorite part of my job is two things. I enjoy sitting with a client and explaining the things that people would not usually consider when buying and selling. I enjoy seeing my clients get into that “ah-ha” moment when they realize something that they didn’t know before. I love teaching. I
also love being there with my clients, showing them homes and explaining things about a house that goes beyond the typical showing.” “My clients can expect honesty and education. I wouldn’t say or advise anything to my clients that I would not do myself. When I meet a client in an initial consultation by phone or in person is for me to get to know them that gives me the advantage of knowing what they need,” Neo says, “We [as people] tend to go by the “I want” and we don’t necessarily look at what we need. It is different for a young family than for a middle age couple that is empty nesters. Their needs can be very different and getting to know the clients first is important. During the process, for the next 40 to 60 days I try to become a part of the family to give them honest advice and an honest opinion matched with professionalism and expertise. To go beyond the transaction.”
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NEO HERNANDEZ: YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD REALTOR
Neo is a member of the community and she is driven to help people make the best decision for themselves. “I come from a structured background in political science. I don’t come from sales. I don’t necessarily have sales on my mind when it comes to real estate. It is more of a relationship to me than a transaction. I want people to think of me as a friend and neighbor. I live in Bowie and have lived in Prince George’s County my whole life. I have been married to my husband, Feliciano, for 23 years. He is my high school sweetheart and we have 17-year old daughter. We are a very musical family. We are on the praise team and musical team at our church. I love to read and I love to shop. We love our community.”
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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 SERVING THE MARYLAND AND DC AREAS
TESTIMONIALS “We want to thank you so much for everything that you have done. You have not only been a great attorney, but a sincerely wonderful person as well.” – Greg and Angela (Washington, DC) Thank you Suren! You have been a blessing to me during this very difficult time. Thank you very much for all of you efforts on my behalf.” – Juanita (Upper Marlboro, MD)
12 | May 2020
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Here Are The Best Gifts For The Greatest Dads In Your Life June is here and that means it’s time to celebrate Dad! Whether it is your dad, your uncle, your brother, a friend, or neighbor, let’s celebrate them with these awesome gifts!
LF CLUBS
ET OF GO
A NEW S
A New Set of Golf Clubs – With golf courses opening back up, Dad is ready to hit the green with a brand-new set of clubs. Strata Ultimate 16-Piece Men’s Set is designed for ultimate distance and ultimate performance with modernized golf technology to cover you from tee to green. Set Includes: Driver, 3 Wood, 4 & 5 Hybrid, 6 - 9 Iron, PW & SW, Putter, Stand Bag, 4 Headcovers. CallawayGolf.com THE
PERF
ECT C
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The Perfect Cologne – A signature scent will make anyone’s day. Simultaneously modern and classic, Dolce & Gabbana’s The One For Men is a timeless fragrance featuring an elegant and sensual scent. The cologne boasts a harmony of tobacco notes and refined spices that achieve a masculine, oriental scent. As well as smelling great, the fragrance also looks great. Housed in a clean glass bottle with a brushed brown metal cap, the cologne signifies contemporary luxury in every way. Macys.com
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The Ultimate Grooming Kit - The James Wet Shaving Kit Wet includes these 6 items: soap, blades, razor, brush, stand, & bowl with your choice of 3 variations with barbershop scented soap. Everything your favorite guy will need to have an amazing shave is right here in this kit. WestCoastShaving.com.
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HERE ARE THE BEST GIFTS FOR THE GREATEST DADS IN YOUR LIFE
HING
FIS SSIC A CLA
ROD
A Classic Fishing Rod - The PENN® Squall Lever Drag Conventional Combo is built for reliable and versatile saltwater fishing. The Squall Lever Drag reel is lightweight with a Dura-Drag™ system and Versa-Handle™. The durable tubular glass blank features a solid tip and stainless steel guides with aluminum oxide inserts. The ergonomic design and solid construction make the PENN Squall Lever Drag Conventional Combo a great choice for saltwater anglers. DicksSportingGoods.com
BROIL K
ING SIG
NET SER
IES GRIL
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Broil King Signet Series Grill - The Signet™ series is one of the most popular gas grills and offers over 635 sq. in. total cooking space. With three stainless steel Dual-Tube™ burners, you can cook a variety of foods at the same time. The quality Therma-Cast™ aluminum oven retains heat and is perfect for convection cooking large roasts or even your holiday turkey. The Signet™ series is trusted by grilling enthusiasts around the world and will help you get great results, every time. BroilKingBBQ.com.
ORD L REC
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PLAY
Vinyl Record Player – For the music loving man in your life, a vinyl record player let’s him enjoy all of his favorite songs. The Victrola 4-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player combines a traditional feel with a modern style. Stream your music via Bluetooth, Radio with Analog Tuner or 3-Speed Turntable. Enjoy an RCA Line-Out for external speaker connection! Belt driven, 3-speed turntable (33 1/3, 45, 78 RPM) plays all of your favorite vinyl records. Classic FM radio with analog tuner and “around the dial” LED lighting and Built-in Stereo Speakers. Measures 15.4” x 6.7” x 15.4”. Victrola Wood Bluetooth Mid Centry Record Player with 3-speed Turntable and Radio. Victrola.com
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Experience Peloton Get what you need to start training, whether it’s just the Peloton Bike, warranty and Membership, which gets you unlimited access to Peloton classes, or accessories to equip you and your family. OnePeloton.com May 2020 | 35