Simply Bowie June Issue 1st Cover 2022 by Simply Magazines

JUNE 2022 JUNE 2022

VIPYACHT YACHT VIP CHARTERSUSA USA CHARTERS TheArt Artof of The KarenY. Y.Buster Buster Karen QuickTips TipsFor For Quick SpeedDating Dating Speed

Vote Sylvia Johnson Maryland State Senate District 23

V i s i t Fr i e n d s O f Sy l vi a J o h n s o n . co m to l ea r n m o re .

Make Your Vision A Beautiful Reality

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Complete Kitchen & Bathroom Renovation Interior & Exterior Painting Flooring Installation

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Tree Services

Roof & Siding

Gutters

Doors & Baseboard

Welding

Shed Assembly & Build

TABLE OF CONTENTS

MEET THE SIMPLY MAGAZINES DREAM TEAM

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

REMODELING & DESIGN, LLC

VIP YACHT CHARTERS USA

SIMPLY ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The Art of Karen Y. Buster

June 2022

BUSINESS & FINANCE

Q & A with Eric Dobbie; Number 1 Sales Consultant at Allegiance Truckers

ARTIST’S CORNER Charles Murray

MARYLAND GOVERNOR’S RACE

32 AROUND TOWN

New Behavioral Health Unit Opens at MedStar Southern Hospital Center.

DAVID GROGAN FOR SHERIFF

PUBLISHER Veronica Fountain Veronica@simplymagazines.net

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Alyson Turner, Courtney Williams Nyah Marshall, Kayla-Ajanae Archer-Buckley

LAYOUT & AD DESIGN Natthaphon Foithong Natt@simplymagazines.net

EDITOR IN CHIEF Alyson Turner Alyson@simplymagazines.net

SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER Ro Moreno

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Veronica Fountain Veronica@simplymagazines.net

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Tracey M. Connor

June 2022

The

Magazine Dream Team

Publisher

Veronica Fountain

Veronica Fountain is the Founder and Publisher of Simply Bowie Magazine. Her goal is to connect community members and business owners to one another by sharing great content every month with the print magazine, digital magazine, social media, and podcasts. “I am very proud of my team and of our community.”

Editor In Chief

Alyson Turner

Alyson Turner is Editor-In-Chief at Simply Magazines. “I have been working in publishing for the last 10 years. When I am not working, I’m spending time at home with my wonderful husband and three lovely children. I love what I do because of the amazing people that I get to meet and interact with from Bowie and all around because of working for the magazine. One of my greatest pleasures is telling the stories of our community members and seeing everyone connecting with one another.”

Layout & Ad Designer

Natthaphon Foithong

Natthaphon Foithong is a Graphic Designer, UX designer and Photographer. He is called “O” by his family, and “NATT” in the USA. He was born and raised in Thailand. He enjoys using his skills to contribute and inspire others with the beautiful designs. “I believe the only way to create some great art is love and passion.” In his free time, he loves spending time with his wife and friends. He loves blues music and plays soccer once a week.

Ro Moreno

Senior Photographer

Ro Moreno is a certified photographer specializing in branding and imaging photography and capturing special moments for clients including engagements for corporations, political figures, individuals, weddings, marathons, and university graduations. Ro enjoys cooking, traveling, and listening to music. “Being a photographer for Simply Bowie has provided me an outlet to express my passion and talents through capturing photos that facilitate the branding and imaging of local entrepreneurs. My goal is to provide them a visual medium that will enhance their unique stories while showcasing their amazing products and services.”

Capture The Moment Photography by Ro, LLC @ctmphotographybyro

June 2022

Tracey M. Connor

Contributing Photographer

Tracey MarLené has refined her portfolio to include: Commercial, Lifestyle, and Event Photography. A native New Yorker, Tracey has lived in Bowie, MD for more than 10 years, and affectionately refers to the “DMV” as home. “What I aspire to accomplish, and what I love to do is for my photography to honor your story, to be studied, exhibited, and ultimately, memorialized as the evidence of my work as a creative.”

Tracey MarLené Photography @traceymarlenemedia

Nyah Marshall

Contributing Writer

Nyah Tari Marshall is a graduating senior, journalism major at Howard University. A multimedia journalist that has contributed to several Howard affiliated news publications, Nyah founded the journalism platform UnitedStories and is finalizing the thesis ‘Media Fueled Black Protests Movements: The Early Black Press and Black Twitter as the Catalyst.” “I love contributing to Simply Magazines because the platform gives me the creative freedom to write about fun topics! My favorite thing about the DMV is the representation of various cultures and people.”

Contributing Writer

Kayla Archer-Buckley

Kayla-Ajanae Archer-Buckley is a graduating senior at Howard University majoring in Broadcast Journalism and minoring in Political Science. “On campus I’m a member of two mentoring organizations, Jewels Incorporated and JustUs. I was also a member of the HU Association of Black Journalists. Outside of school, I’m a writer and creative with a passion for art, film, and poetry.”

Courtney Williams

Contributing Writer

Courtney Williams is a graduating senior, journalism major at Howard University. Her passion for writing and storytelling started when Courtney joined the yearbook staff in middle school and has since been pushed her career as a journalist. “I love watching documentaries and one day I hope to produce one. In my free time, I like watching home renovation shows and I want to learn more about contracting so I can be my own DIY expert. Interning with Simply Magazines has been such a wonderful experience and I’m so grateful to have the opportunity to write for the community.”

June 2022

Letter

from the

EDITOR Farewell The author of the beloved Winne The Pooh, A.A. Milne wrote, “How lucky I am that I have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” Today, my wonderful Bowie, that is how I feel. After years of sitting down each month to write this lovely letter to you, the time has come that I am saying goodbye. This will be my last issue as Editor-In-Chief of Simply Bowie Magazine. As I look back on some of my favorite issues, stories, and people that I have met I feel extremely blessed. Having been able to hear all of your stories and share them every month has been one of the greatest privileges. I would like to thank the team at Simply Bowie Magazine for always working together and making our jobs fun. For making this the best magazine of its kind. Thank you to our photographers and our lead designer. Thank you to all of our wonderful interns who continually amaze me with their talent and creativity. Last, but certainly not least, thank you to Veronica, our publisher, who always encouraged me and supported our little piece of heaven. Most of all, thank you, dear Readers of Bowie, none of this would have been possible without your support, sharing on social media, advertising with us, and coming back to read our magazine each month. It has been a true joy. Thank you again, from the bottom of my heart. It is my dearest hope that you will continue to enjoy Simply Bowie Magazine for many years to come and so will I.

Light & Kindness

Alyson Turner 8

June 2022

Serving Bowie and The Surrounding Areas

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June 2022

We Cover 50 Miles Radius Of Bowie, MD Open Monday to Saturday 9 AM- 5 PM

FROM DREAM TO REALITY THE JOURNEY OF RODOLFO CABRERA AND REMODELING & DESIGN, LLC

Article By Kayla-Ajanae Archer-Buckley Photography By Tracey M. Connor

ith aspirations to create a better life for himself and his entire family, Rodolfo Cabrera was determined to bring his American Dream to life. From a small village in Guatemala to creating his own company and simultaneously marking the beginning of a new legacy; Rodolfo has not only paved the way for his family but other immigrants like him who share his work ethic and passion for helping others. His daughter and administrative assistant, Joserin Cabrera describes her father as someone who’s never been content with the ordinary. “My dad doesn’t like to settle; he always wants to achieve more.” As the years have gone by, Joserin has witnessed her dad’s fire to keep improving. Even now, as his company Remodeling & Design LLC has reached unimagined heights, he aims to take this company even higher. Rodolfo was born into a large family. He’s one of thirteen siblings born on May 9th, 1978, to his father and mother in Baja Verapaz, Guatemala. The small village he was raised in didn’t provide the best environment for Rodolfo’s dreams, which inspired him to find a way out. Many people end up staying in the village for most of their life, but this didn’t discourage Rodolfo. Before moving to America, Rodolfo left his home village and moved to a city in Guatemala where he found work in a restaurant as a waiter. He eventually worked his way up and became manager of the restaurant.

Joserin recalls that although her dad had only worked in a restaurant, he always aspired to become something much bigger. Rodolfo planned to move to America and join his uncle in Tennessee and then start his own painting company. In 2006, he put his plans into action and made the move. He packed up his belongings and left his home village in Guatemala by himself. Upon arriving in America there was an unexpected bump in the road that changed Rodolfo’s original plan. He was unable to move to Tennessee and instead moved to Maryland where he joined his brother-in-law, Carlos Contreras. After moving to Maryland, he met Jay Towler, who has become an important part of Rodolfo’s journey. Jay gave Rodolfo and Carlos the opportunity to learn more about construction. From there Rodolfo and Carlos began working as handymen. One of the many things that make his company Remodeling & Design so reliable and trustworthy amongst its customers, is Rodolfo’s years of experience. He’s had nearly a decade of experience working in this field. After working as a

June 2022

handyman, in 2014 he began working as a sub-contractor for different organizations. While working as a sub-contractor, Rodolfo faced many obstacles and struggles, but instead of letting these negative experiences shape his life, he used them to propel himself, his family, and his dream forward. This led to the creation of Remodeling & Design LLC in 2017 which continues to thrive five years after its initial start with several five-star reviews and a social media following of over 20,000 people. His company has allowed him to assert full control over his vision and fully express his creativity through his work. However, to only call this company successful, is an understatement. Rodolfo’s work ethic is inspirational and his commitment to helping his family and others like him truly makes his company stand out amongst others. Rodolfo doesn’t do this work alone, and he doesn’t claim to. He enjoys being able to employ his family as well as others who come from a similar background as him. His daughter, Joserin has been an integral part of his team filling in many roles from his administrative assistant to social media manager and sometimes translator. She works alongside Johnathan Morazan and Iris Foster. Together the three of them make up the administrative staff. The company also consists of seven other teams that handle the design and construction aspects of the company. Each team consists of about 2-3 people, and each team is equipped with a team lead. Five of the seven teams handle renovations and interior design, while the other two teams handle the outside and patio work. Seeing how immigrants, especially Latin immigrants like himself are often overworked and underpaid in the contracting industry Rodolfo makes it a point to ensure that his team is treated with respect and paid fairly. He also notes that he loves seeing his workers go on to start their own companies. He points out that he enjoys seeing people start small and grow into something bigger like he did. It’s one of the many things he appreciates about his company. Family is important to Rodolfo, as many of his workers are relatives, relatives of other relatives, or close friends. Without a doubt, this strong love for his team and family is felt by his customers who often return with positive feedback. Some have even called to tell him just how inspiring his company is. “Our clients make us”, Joserin proudly stated. Without their support, the company wouldn’t be where it is today. They strive to always provide stellar customer service because Rodolfo’s many loved things about his company is being able to put a smile on each client’s face. “Your home is where you end up every day. It’s good to have a space to relax in, so it’s rewarding to see people happy with the work we do.” Joserin says. Rodolfo adds that he likes seeing customers’ reactions to the finished project and the results. Seeing his customers happy brings him immense joy.

the area that do exactly what Remodeling & Design does. Joserin shares that there are only around 2 or 3 other services that do. This company includes a range of services such as kitchen, basement, patio, decks, bathroom renovations, custom bars, and unique ceiling and wall designs. Their stylistic designs are a major component of Remodeling & Design. Many of the designs shown on their website and social media pages are original, and Rodolfo loves being able to start and set new décor trends through his work.

Joserin believes that this is another factor that makes Remodeling & Design stand out from other interior design and construction companies. This also demonstrates how the company accomplishes its mission to provide customers with dependable and high-quality service. They promise to go above and beyond to satisfy every customer’s needs, and this is clear, not only through their work but also in how they discuss their connection with their customers. Currently, Remodeling and Design primarily serve Bowie, MD, and the surrounding DMV area. However, Rodolfo has plans to continue growing and reaching more of his goals as a business owner. He additionally hopes to one day bring his company to other states and expand in other ways.

“Our wall designs are very detailed; they have different shapes. At first, we just did boxes, but now we do hourglass designs, and half-moons, and we also do different ceiling designs with circles. My dad is a very creative person, so this helps with coming up with new ideas,” Joserin says.

Rodolfo’s success as a business owner wasn’t overnight, but his perseverance and determination ensured it. With no prior experience owning a business, Rodolfo’s story speaks volumes. Before starting his business, he had never taken business classes or even any construction classes. The only experience he had was his time as a restaurant manager years ago. Rodolfo only enrolled in classes that helped him earn his license for legal work and his Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) license.

Rodolfo’s story shows that anything is possible when you keep your goals at the forefront. Through his success, he’s able to help his customers and his family. As a young boy from Baja Verapaz, Rodolfo never imagined his company would reach the level of success that it did. Joserin shares that in the beginning, there were some difficulties. There were slow months and at times they worried about finding new contracting jobs and securing clients. Fast forward to now, where there’s nearly a 2-month waiting period due to the volume of customers.

Besides being an inspiration for small businesses and other immigrants, he also prides himself on the quality of his and his team’s work. Joserin proudly stated that her father’s company is known for working quickly and efficiently. There aren’t many other companies in

With a dream of just starting a painting company, it’s safe to say Rodolfo has far exceeded this dream with the creation of Remodeling & Design.

5 Star Reviews: Kishia Kegler 11/12/2021 “The service and craftsmanship of Remodeling and Design is unmatched!! We’ve had a few home remodeling projects and each one has exceeded our expectations! My husband and I are sticklers for attention to detail and Rodolfo and his team have a keen eye for attention. Our next project is a custom closet and we are looking forward to Remodeling and Design creating the perfect closet.” Linda McNair 03/22/2022

If you’re interested in any services offered by

“I had three projects done, the first was a shower door which looks and works great.

Remodeling & Design visit their Facebook page @RemodelingAndDesignLLC and

Second- was a large fireplace in which so many people stated it looks like a home in Hollywood and the master bathroom I have been told it is fit for a Queen, ME.

their Instagram @RemodelingandDesign or

you can visit their website: Remodelinganddesignllc.com.

I have several more projects to do in the near future. Wonderful staff !!!” 12

June 2022

THE

ADVENTURES

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June 2022

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VIP Yacht Charters USA Owner Rod Patterson offers world-class customer service and luxury cruises with VIP Yacht Charters USA to experience Washington DC the way it was meant to be – on the water! Article By Alyson Turner Photography by Ro Moreno

Luxury, Safety and Respect. These are the three most important words when it comes to guests of VIP Yacht Charters USA. Businessman and Waterman Rod Patterson offers luxury service unlike any other. When you step onto one of his yachts, you are treated with respect and professionalism to ensure you completely enjoy your day on the water. Rod has cultivated a love of spending days on the water since he was a child. “As a youngster I grew up around the water. My dad was an avid fisherman and I always wanted to go. When I reached the age of 17, he saw that I had a lot of interest in boating so he wanted to teach me more. I went out on a boat by myself and I had to follow a map to successfully [reach the destination]. He just kept throwing more [challenges] at me and I started boating from there,” Rod tells us, “As I got older, I bought my own boat, around 30 years ago. I took a hobby and I turned it into an opportunity. I work for the biggest transit agency in the DMV area. I am getting ready to retire from my regular job in a few years. I thought this was perfect. I was a legal captain running up and down the Eastern seaboard from Miami to Maine. I started VIP Yacht Charters USA 4 years ago and I went through about 3 years of trial and error to provide the best service possible. I looked at many different areas from Baltimore to Annapolis to Washington DC. I found out this

region was the perfect opportunity to run a private luxury charter service.” VIP Yacht Charters USA’s mission is for clients to have the experience of being treated VIP-style, first and foremost. “You are not just getting a boat ride. You are getting a luxury yacht. We do sunset, night charters, brunch charters, fourhour and three-hour tours. We do offer 2 hours during the week occasionally. We travel the scenic routes of Washington D.C. to see all of the history, artifacts, and notable sights including the Navy Merchant Marine Memorial, Buzzard’s Point, and the Southwest Waterfront. Most people when they are out on the water, they are lost. People know about the DC monument, but to see DC from the water looks totally different. It is a whole different perspective. Many people come back often,” Rod says. VIP Yacht Charters USA’s clients express extreme satisfaction with their world-class customer service, allinclusive pricing and the overall luxury experience that is offered. VIP Yacht Charters USA is open 7 days a week from February to November depending on the weather. In addition to regular cruises, VIP Yacht Charters USA offers corporate charters for office and team-building events. Rod says, “My reviews are impeccable. I wanted my yacht charter

June 2022

Wise Words From Rod The most important thing to me as a business owner is that every person is treated with respect, safety, and luxury. Our yachts are very clean, and sanitized. I want every guest no matter how many times that have traveled with us to feel comfortable while enjoying themselves. Safety is extremely important, a huge concern of ours and I want people to feel comfortable and safe with an experienced captain. Our team always looks and acts professional. Offering a service unlike any other including custom service with a variety of options. That is how I want my business to run with people knowing the luxury they expect is going to be there every time. This is what we do, this is who we are, and this is what we provide. A world-class class service, that you cannot get anywhere else.

service to be running smoothly. We have a great service and a great team that comes back every year. We are opened for the nice days. There are a lot of folks that want to get out and don’t mind being in the 50-degree and 60-degree weather. We did over 100 charters during the start of the pandemic. Last year we did around 140 charters. We follow all of the rules of the CDC, the DC Harbor Patrol, and the USCG rules and regulations. People felt very safe to see that we had all of these rules and regulations in place. We are adding to our fleet as well.” There are many different ways to celebrate special events and VIP Yacht Charters USA offers the best experience and service. “It is private. You are doing what you want to do, with people that you want to be around. We have done many bachelorette parties already this year. We do anniversaries, graduations, any celebration that you can think of we can do. You can choose your own theme. We have done parties of up to 26 people. We add additional boats for larger parties so that there is enough space. We have a host that comes to greet you. She takes you down to the yacht as a group. There is a safety briefing at the beginning and then the charter starts. Each charter comes with a Capitan that is familiar with all of the waters and has a current license with a consortium card. The host comes along as well. The hosts

are licensed bar tenders that treat you like the VIPs that you are,” Rod tells us, “We are offering a catering service for those who don’t want to bring food. We provide utensils, water, ice and the set-up. Currently people can bring food and beverages that they prefer. We also offer a car service to bring you to the yacht club. We want to treat you with the full-service, royal treatment. This is true luxury service.” The reason that VIP Yacht Charters USA stands out from other charters or boat services is because they are a full-service, luxury cruise experience. They have a private Captain and experienced host that serves you and makes sure that all of your needs are met during your event. Many other similar charters are self-service only. Rod says, “VIP Yacht Charters employees are professional, in uniform, and A1. We get a lot of compliments on how neat and clean we are along with the exceptional, customer service. We offer custom packages designed to meet your every need from small gatherings and brunch charters, to night charters and corporate charters. There are different sorts of platters depending on the different packages you choose. You can customize the corporate charters to your needs. This type of service is generally reserved for 70-foot yachts, we are 45foot, but everything looks band new and has all been freshly renovated. Everything is exquisite and top of the line.”

June 2022

VIP Yacht Charters USA offers you the opportunity to join them for a relaxing day cruising along the Potomac. Whether you want to cruise, celebrate a special event, and dine–you’ve come to the right place. Accepts:

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16 | June 2022 Call today for pricing or visit VIPYachtChartersUSA.com for more information.

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June 2022

The Art of Karen Y. Buster Inspiration and Connection Through Art

Article By Alyson Turner Photography By Tracey M. Connor

“What comes out of all of it, is being blessed in many different ways. Art is not what I see, but what I can make others see.” Karen Y. Buster, uses her art as a way to inspire, and connect. After a heart attack at the age of 38 and being unable to create her art for months, Karen felt this was a wake-up call to understand the gift she had been given. “I believe in a higher power. I am a vessel and the art comes through me. Sometimes I’d love to be able to say that I amaze myself for some of the things that pour through me and out of me, but it is not just my doing. I want people to understand that the artwork is bigger than me if I can do pieces that are able to reach other people than I have been successful. I am 63 years old and my driving force is a higher power,” Karen tells us, “When I was 5 or 6 years old, I always wanted to be able to look at the negative strips [that came with developed photos]. It locked into my head and that is how I look at things. I draw with an Exacto knife. I am still cutting negatives and I am still seeing in negative and positive spaces. Seeing those negative strips was the catalyst that woke up me to see in that style of work when not even knowing what it was. I come from a line of creative people. My mom would put my artwork as a child in a frame and put it in my room and on the wall. It instilled the value in me that what I create needs to be protected and valued. It also introduced me to the idea of a gallery. Tracey and I did a show for Women’s Month, we had about 60 or more pieces in it and my parents who are 87 and 85 came to the show. They have supported me in every aspect since I was a child.” Karen has been in the Human Services Field for over 35 years working in mental health and with the Department of Health. “My spirit in me has always been to empower people at whatever level I need to reach you. If you are laying on your belly, then I will lay on my belly for us to connect. Eventually we will rise up together. It goes back to what art has done in my life. All artists are introverts [in a way] and I tell young artists that they will become an extroverted when they talk about their art. When your art evokes a feeling within someone, they feel called to ask you how you came up with the creation. The more you talk about the work the easier it becomes and the more you want to talk about the work and share about the work,” Karen says, “I was diagnosed dyslexic as an adult and it made me understand things from when I was a child. As a child I always drew my notes. When everyone was writing notes, I would be drawing my notes. That went straight through college, it was my comfort zone. Art becomes that comfort zone whether you are happy, sad, or mad. It is the one place that I can go into that is mine. I can decide who comes in and who stays out. It becomes very therapeutic. I have done several art therapy sessions with handicapped individuals, homeless person, children, different groups of people. I will have people paint a mask during therapeutic sessions. One side is all of the positive things in your life and one side is all of the negative things. For two hours you have to turn your phones off and not talk to people. Those last 30 minutes, they talk about their mask and everyone can feel what you are talking about. Now, everyone is crying. That is the therapy side of art for me and I can share that part of me.” Once Karen recovered from her heart attack, she began to create her art in a more spiritual and uninhibited light. Karen says, “No matter where I am, no matter who I am speaking with, I will tell

people that my art comes from a higher power. My work speaks to other people, I know that I have been able to touch them because I have been touched. I had a young lady around 7 years old and she took one of my pieces of ballet shoes and recreated it. It is such a good feeling when I know that I am able to reach someone. I see my art as being a gift that I have to share. When someone comes to me and sees my art the most important thing is not the sale. It is that the you left feeling different than when you came in. I want to open up that dialogue and that conversation, you never know what people are feeling. The greatest compliment you can give me is to bring my art into your home. Your home is a spiritual temple, you pick and choose what you want to bring in to it. It has opened a lot of doors for me to reach people and for people to reach me.” Karen does galleries, shows, and creates art on commission. She hopes that any art that she sells will inspire those who see it. For most of her life, she has been drawn to creating and sharing her art with the world including owning her own t-shirt printing business, Bustertizin, while attending Dillard University in New Orleans. “I moved back to Baltimore to take care of my grandma who had cancer. I met an international artist called Larry Poncho Brown. He said, ‘Your t-shirts are great, but you need to be on the fine art side of things using your technique drawing with the knife and creating. Larry has been some 40 odd years into the game. I met so many heavy hitters in the art world, and by the time they met me I had been doing my t shirts and creating with my Exacto knife for 20 years before starting fine art. When you put your energy into your work, for me, it opens the doors. The bigger picture is to touch the other person. To allow you to get inside my head and to get into the image. Music soothes the savage beast and so does art.” Karen met Tracey, a photographer, at an art show and they got married six years ago. “She and I are of like-minds. It takes a certain type of individual to deal with the creative because we are unlike everyone else. The beautiful part is that you don’t have to explain it. When you start talking about your craft and your passion it flows. It took me forever to say ‘I am an artist’. I never saw myself that way. It was my heart attack that made me truly understand what it felt like when I couldn’t create. For me, art is just a conversation. When I work with mental health clients and my other clients, they often express that they felt shunned or dismissed. I relate to them because I too felt shunned in my own way. My art overcomes that feeling. Art is connection.”

June 2022

ARTIST’S STATEMENT In my artwork, you will see a different perspective of how negative and positive spaces interact. As a child, I was fascinated with the look of negatives on film strips. From early childhood, I believe I developed the eye of a photographer without a camera. As you follow the geometrical shapes and patterns of my artwork, you will find a common theme. Allow your eye to travel, look at the sharp edges drawn by a precision knife which speaks to the development of my style. My work has been described as irregular, eccentric, different, unusual and unconventional. I will continue to look at everyday images in this unorthodox way. Art has allowed me to speak feelings that can’t always be said through words. I hope I can inspire young people to know that art has a voice.

To learn more about Karen’s art or to purchase some art for yourself, please visit KarenYBuster.com.

Wherever you go, goes with you.

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Eric Dobbie

A Wall Street Vet Exemplifying What it Means to be in Sales

Article By Nyah Marshall

Eric Dobbie is a 25-year veteran Wall Street equity trader, who currently works as a sales consultant for Allegiance Trucks, a premier truck dealer in the Northeastern United States. Whether you need to «spec a new truck, track down hard-tofind parts, or repair your vehicle after an accident,” Allegiance is committed to meeting all of these trucking needs. However as Dobbie puts it, his job is more than just selling trucks, it’s one that builds and fosters relationships. As a trading and sales insider, he enjoys sharing his knowledge and has worked with inner city kids for about 25 years, running youth programs in Harlem, Baltimore, St. Pete and Tampa. How did he become the exemplary salesperson and motivational speaker he is today? By way of a broken ankle.

How did your profession as a sales consultant at Allegiance Trucks come to be? First, my Wall Street background created the opportunity for me to see both sides of the world. I had the opportunity through sales, to do some consulting, to do some topics on networking, sales, training, networking, what it means to be a networker, the habits of being a networker, and I like to give back and share some of my knowledge.

Now, I’m in the trucking industry. I sell commercial trucks up in Hartford, Connecticut. How do you go from Wall Street to selling trucks? Well, I got into the truck industry, by way of a broken ankle, believe it or not. In 2011, I was waiting tables in Florida and couldn’t get a job. So the guy I used to rent my condo to called me and asked, how old was my son, Luke. And I said, ‘He’s 12.’ ‘So can he play baseball?’ I said, ‹Yeah, absolutely.’ He says, ‘Well, my catcher broke his ankle and I need somebody to play catcher.’ I say, ‘Great, Luke could be on your team.’ So he actually joined the Clearwater Little League. The guy I was renting my condo to, He said ‘You’re the best salesman I’ve ever seen. Do you want to sell trucks?’ I said, ‘Absolutely.’ I started selling that following Monday. My customer in Hartford was my biggest customer in Florida for two years. He hired me four years ago, now, I’m up here in Hartford, Connecticut.

What does your average day look like? A day in the life of a truck salesman is a lot of networking. You’re always talking to business and business owners. There’s a lot of people that use trucks. You got roofers, movers, electricians, plumbers, caterers…It’s just nonstop phone calls.

June 2022

So in truck sales, you’re constantly building relationships with business owners. You’re constantly networking, sharing the story of our company. But I always tell everybody, I don’t sell trucks, I sell relationships. As a networker, I love to listen, learn to listen for conversations, on what’s going on in other people’s lives to see if I can refer them to somebody that can be of value to them. It’s more about selling a relationship than just selling a truck. So my day is very busy, and my phone never stops ringing, which is nice.

What would you say is the most important quality for someone working in sales, specifically your area of sales? I think the most important quality for anybody in sales is to become a great networker. A networker is all about being a giver. Be a giver, not a taker. There’s three key habits of a great networker. One is having a 24/7 mindset to help others. Number two is being proactive, filling up your calendar. Don’t wait for people to set up an appointment with you, you got to make the phone call, be proactive and reach out to people to fill your own calendar. Number three is to learn how to become a great listener. Learn to listen to what is going on in every conversation with people.

Learn to listen to what’s going on in someone else’s life to where maybe you can help refer them to a success minded individual.

How do you handle and stay positive during the slow months or when you get rejected? Rejection is a part of sales. But, if you take the flip side of rejection, and think of the conversation, whether they buy or sell, or not, think of it as the opportunity of experience. The more you do it, the better you get at it. And then you just go on to the next person. And know that rejection is just an emotion, that’s all it is. And say, somebody said ‘no.’ That’s no big deal, because that somebody can lead to somebody else.

What advice do you have for someone just starting out in sales? Remember, you don’t grow a business, you grow relationships. And I don’t care if you’re selling trucks or working on Wall Street. It’s all about relationships with people because referrals only come after trust is built for you and your business. Then, you have to learn how to communicate with open-ended questions. There’s three magic words that I always love to use when doing this. Those three magic words are: ‘I’m just curious.’ I’d also recommend the book, The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino. He’s one of the greatest motivational authors of all time and at one point was penniless. Buy that book and read it forever. I’ve been rereading that book since 1986.

June 2022

Other Tips and Tidbits of Info From Dobbie: • Follow up, follow up, follow up • Don’t just make one phone call, make 10 phone calls • 80% of all sales happen between the 5th and 12th contact • Use every conversation as a gaining experience • Gain from the experience, leave the emotions out of it

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June 2022

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June 2022

Who’s Who in the 2022 Maryland Gubernatorial Election? Article By Nyah Marshall It’s almost time to elect the next governor of Maryland! The 2022 Maryland gubernatorial election will take place on November 8, 2022, and the Democratic and Republican primaries are scheduled for July 19, 2022. Incumbent two-term Republican Governor Larry Hogan, is term-limited and is serving out his final term. As of April 15, the filing deadline, there are 14 candidates running for Maryland governor—10 in the Democratic primary and four in the Republican primary. So, who’s who in the 2022 Maryland gubernatorial election?

Democrats Rushern Baker Baker, 63, was born in Valdosta, Georgia. He is president and CEO of Baker Strategies and served as Prince George’s County executive from 2010 to 2018. His running mate is Montgomery County Councilwoman Nancy Navarro. Jon Baron, Baron, 59, was born in Washington, D.C. He is the former vice president of the evidencebased policy group, Arnold Ventures. His running mate is Natalie Williams, senior director of communications and public affairs at the Maryland Business Roundtable for Education. Peter Franchot Franchot, 74, was born in New Haven, Connecticut. He currently serves as the comptroller of Maryland. His running mate is former Prince George’s County Councilwoman Monique Anderson-Walker. Doug Gansler Gansler, 59, was born in Summit, New Jersey. He is a lawyer who served as Maryland’s attorney general from 2007 to 2015. His running mate is former Hyattsville Mayor Candace Hollingsworth. Ralph Jaffe Jaffe, 80, was born in Baltimore. He is a teacher. His running mate is Mark Greben.

Ashwani Jain Jain, 32, was born in Rockville, Montgomery County. He currently serves as program director for the National Kidney Foundation. His running mate is LaTrece Hawkins Lytes.

June 2022

John King King, 47, was born in New York, New York. He is president of the Education Trust, and was a former U.S. secretary of education under President Barack Obama. His running mate is Michelle Daugherty Siri. Wes Moore Moore, 43, was born in Takoma Park, Montgomery County. He is a former CEO, combat veteran and small business owner. His running mate is former Montgomery County Delegate Aruna Miller. Tom Perez Perez, 60, was born in Buffalo, New York. He is a former U.S. secretary of labor, assistant attorney general for civil rights under President Barack Obama and former chairman of the Democratic National Committee. His running mate is former Baltimore City Councilwoman Shannon Sneed. Jerome Segal Segal, 78, was born in The Bronx, New York. He is the founder of Bread and Roses and author of “Graceful Simplicity: The Philosophy and Politics of Simple Living.” His running mate is Galena Town Councilman Justinian M. Dispenza.

Republicans Dan Cox Cox, 47, is a Republican who represents the fourth district in the Maryland House of Delegates, (Carroll and Frederick counties). He was born inWashington, D.C. and has been endorsed by former president Donald Trump for the Maryland gubernatorial election. His running mate is U.S. Naval Academy law professor Gordana Schifanelli Robin Ficker Ficker, 79, was born in Takoma Park, Maryland. He is a disbarred attorney, real estate broker and former state legislator. Ficker ran for Montgomery County Executive in the 2018 election. His running mate is LeRoy F. Yegge Jr. Kelly Schulz Schulz, 53, was born in Warren, Michigan. She has served as Maryland’s commerce secretary from 2019 to 2022 and as Maryland’s labor secretary from 2015 to 2019. Her running mate is Air Force Lt. Col. Jeff Woolford. Joe Werner Werner, 62, grew up in and around Baltimore. He ran for congress in 2018 as a Democrat and received his JD from the University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law in 1996. His running mate is Minh Thanh Luong.

June 2022

Around Town

Grand Opening

New Behavioral Health Unit at MedStar Southern Hospital Center. The community has recently celebrated the opening of the new Behavioral Health Unit at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center. This is an exciting time for all Prince Georgians as this is yet another step in our journey to provide access to the comprehensive healthcare our residents deserve. The opening of this facility gives hope for the future of behavioral healthcare for all Prince George’s County residents and fits with the goal to build a continuum of healthcare right here in the County that will address every healthcare need that residents face. Thank You to MedStar Health for their dedication to providing the best healthcare for Prince Georgians, and the community continues to work together to improve the health and well-being of all residents and keep moving forward as a stronger, healthier Prince George’s County. #PrinceGeorgesProud

June 2022

David Grogan for Sheriff of Prince George’s County Simply Bowie Magazine Spoke with David Grogan, candidate for Prince George’s County Sheriff, about his vision should he be elected and his love for his hometown.

Article By Alyson Turner Photography By Ro Moreno

June 2022

David hails from a family of scholars and educators and has a passion for education. He is a proud graduate of Bowie State University and served two terms on the City of Bowie Education Committee. “In high school, I gained a lot of that from bodybuilding and playing sports. I went on to college at Bowie State and played football on a partial football scholarship and while a student at BSU, I started my career in law enforcement. I worked for the United States Secret Service and then for the United States Department of Justice US Marshal Service as a co-op student. I recruited my brother who still works for the Secret Service. I attended the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, FLETC one month after I graduated from college and retired after 25 years of federal service in 2013.”

David Grogan, a life-long resident of Prince George’s County grew up in Glassmanor in Oxon Hill, where he graduated from Oxon Hill High School. David is an adoring father to his daughter Haylee Brie Grogan who serves as his executive personal assistant on the campaign trail. He is thrilled to have her active support and knows his mom, who formerly served in this position, is smiling down on them both. From an early age, he found himself drawn to a career in both law enforcement as well as health and wellness. When asked about how he began his health and wellness journey, David recounts, “I used to play basketball at Glassmanor Community Center. There, I met a World Wide Federation wrestler professional bodybuilder and started lifting weights at 13. I began competing in body building at the age of 14. I’ve competed all over the world as a drug/steroid free natural professional bodybuilder. I learned what focus, dedication, determination, and commitment looked like at a very young age because I had great mentors and role models.” David goes on to state “To this day, I still focus much more on wellness vs fitness and making the connection between law enforcement, health and wellness. The biggest challenge we are seeing is officers who are unhealthy physically, physiologically, and emotionally. I believe that we should be educating our law enforcement officers to stay healthy in mind, body, and spirit”.

During David’s tenure with the Department of Justice United States Marshal Services, he was one of the managerial facilitators of the elite Federal Witness Protection Program. “For 23 years of my 25-year Federal law enforcement career, I managed local, state, and federal law enforcement. I also served on the Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force (CARFTF).” states Grogan. This task force is composed of local, state, and federal law enforcement personnel who have joined together to deliver warrants for high-level crimes, and violent offenders. Grogan served as the task force’s supervisor prior to his retirement. “I have worked in public safety almost my entire life. Close to my own heart is the reputation and the image of law enforcement. I believe it can be turned around with the right leadership.” affirms Grogan. In addition to his service in public safety, David Grogan is a determined civil and human rights

June 2022

advocate. In 2013, Mr. Grogan received the No FEAR Act Award in recognition of advancing the civil and human rights of employees at the U.S. Marshals Service. He tells us, “Long before I thought about politics, I have always advocated for human rights, especially the rights of children.” David believes in accountability and that no one, no officer, is above the law. David is and was a whistle blower for law enforcement accountability. He did this long before corruption gained media attention in the national media. David goes on to state that “anyone that carries a badge and gun needs to be held accountable. That is the challenge for all police agencies - local, state, and federal. I want to be able to use this campaign to educate the community that law enforcement can be a positive force in the community. I have a coloring book for children called The Sheriff is Your Friend. We distributed our coloring books in as many schools as we were able. It educates children about the Sheriff’s office at a very young age.” With a true desire to help and the best interest of the community at heart, David is running for Sheriff to be a vehicle of change. “I have been a mid to senior-level manager most of my career and I want

to be able to set an example and influence positive change. The Sheriff’s position is important to me because of our local community and my connection to Prince George’s County. What may come as a surprise to some is that holding the office of County Sheriff is the equivalent of holding the US Marshal position at the federal level. The local Sheriff brings the order of the courts to the local area. The duties are similar, but the Sheriff is appointed by the people. Deputy Sheriffs are government employees. The US Marshal is a presidential appointment. The Deputy Marshals are federal government employees. All of this to say that The Sheriff is the chief law enforcement officer for the county. The Sheriff can take on any role that they need to. I believe that the elected Sheriff should take an active role in public safety, accountability, and public service. That is why I am running for Sheriff - to be of service to a county who has given me so much.”

David Grogan is Endorsed By • • • •

City of Bowie Councilman-at large Henri Gardner David Chapman, Honorary Mayor of Lake Arbor Black Women for Positive Change Franklyn Malone, Founder and President 100 Father’s Inc.

David Grogan’s Vision For The Position of Sheriff • Establish a Sheriff’s Department Office of Integrity and Professional Responsibility. • Take a more active role in accountability and transparency over the Prince George’s County Police and Municipal Police Departments. • Develop internships, cooperative education, and cadet program for young people. • Establish a Sheriff’s Department Duty Threat Matrix to prioritize solving and preventing violent crime. • Expand the positive visibility role of the Deputy Sheriff by providing crossing guard support for our schools and our most dangerous roads. • Restructuring the vetting, hiring, and promotional processes.

To learn more about David Grogan and his vision to serve as the next elected Sheriff of Prince George’s County, visit DaveGrogan.com 35 | June 2022

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DavidGrogan Grogan David ForSheriff Sheriff For

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