Serving all of Maryland and the District of Columbia Chapter 13)
“I have attended a few seminars on Estate Planning, and I was aware that I needed to start this process sooner than later. I was fortunate to attend an Estate Planning seminar presented by Suren Adams. I was very impressed with her professionalism, her impeccable knowledge of the subject matter, and the ability to present the information in an understandable language. Suren’s noteworthy credentials speak for themselves, and her service costs are comparable to others in the area. I would highly recommend her service to anyone who is interested in the Estate Planning process. I guarantee that once you attend Suren’s seminar, you will not delay in starting the process today!”
- C.H. (Upper Marlboro,
MD)
“Mrs. Adams: We want to thank you very much for the diligent work your office has done in finalizing our Trust package, to include notifications to our investment organizations and trustees. We could not be happier for the great legal work you and your staff has done for us. Again, many thanks for bringing everything together in our Trust.”
- R.G. & D.G (District Heights)
3rd Annual Readers Choice Awards! Presents
OCTOBER 10, 2025 5PM- 10PM
Welcome to the Simply Bowie Publication 3rd Annual Readers Choice Awards bringing you a night of Neo Lounge Mix with Singer Zadia, a R&B, Neo-Soul Vocalist with strong Jazz influences. Also John G. Lewis, a guitarist, singer with a smooth voice for Jazz and R&B.
TICKETS ARE ON Sale FOR
$80 GENERAL ADMISSION
$640 VIP 8 TICKETS IN AUDITORIUM
Heavy Hors d’oeuvres
Winners will be revealed at “Bowie Center for Performing Arts” Bowie, Maryland
Network and mingle with business owners, top realtors, local politicians, community leaders and more.
2025 Readers’ Choice Awards Highlights
• Awards
• Vendors
• DJ Angie Entertainment
• Craveable Caterers
• The Dessert Bar
• Wine with Leslie
• Photobooth
• Guest Speaker- India Hall
• Live Entertainment
• Networking
• Panelist Speakers
VERONICA FOUNTAIN HOST
LIFE COACH
VON - THE KEYNOTE SPEAKER
JACKIE THOMPSON CO-HOST
Georgetown Waterfront Washington, D.C.
As D.C.’s oldest neighborhood, Georgetown’s waterfront provides visitors with the ideal waterfront view paired with charming cobblestone streets and a vibrant culinary scene.
Things to Do:
• Water Activities: Rent a kayak or paddleboard from the Key Bridge Boathouse.
• Outdoor Activities: The C&O Canal Towpath offers the perfect trails for visitors to bike, walk, or run along the Potomac River.
• Shopping: Browse trendy clothing shops while exploring the neighborhood’s waterfront.
Eats:
• Sequoia: An iconic restaurant that offers great outdoor seating and brunch menu options.
• Farmers Fishers Bakers: A popular spot that features locally sourced plates, perfect for brunch.
• Guapo’s: A tasty Mexican spot that offers a beautiful riverside view.
Sweet Treats:
• Georgetown Cupcakes: A cupcake shop widely popular for its decorative designer tasty cupcakes.
• Thomas Sweet: An ice cream shop that offers homemade ice cream with a variety of flavors.
Annapolis Waterfront
Annapolis, Maryland
Home to the U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis has left a lasting impression on many with its historic charm. Its waterfront view offers visitors a unique blend of history and breathtaking aesthetics, making it a great pick for strolls along the water and fun activities.
Things to Do:
• Water Activities: For the best view of the Chesapeake Bay, catch a ride on a sailing cruise.
• Shopping: Stop by the local boutiques and specialty shops, while strolling around the waterfront.
• Tour the U.S. Naval Academy: Visit the U.S. Naval Academy Museum or venture through the yard taking in the historic architecture.
Eats:
• O’Brien’s Oyster Bar & Seafood Tavern: A seafood restaurant that provides live entertainment, focusing on Chesapeake cuisine.
• Osteria 177: An upscale Italian restaurant with a cozy ambiance.
• Boatyard Bar & Grill: An Annapolis staple, best known for its seafood.
Sweet Treats:
• Annapolis Ice Cream Company: Voted “Best Ice Cream” in Annapolis for the past 20 years, this ice cream shop offers local homemade ice cream.
• Kilwins: Best known for its rich fudge and classic ice cream, Kilwins is a great spot for dessert.
Baltimore Harbor
Baltimore, Maryland
Baltimore’s Inner Harbor offers the model day getaway for family-friendly fun with its interactive museums, vibrant dining options, and live entertainment.
Things to Do:
• Water Activities: Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or sailboat to explore the Patapsco River.
• Visit the National Aquarium: Admire all the animals and tour the award-winning exhibits.
• Visit the Museums: Explore Port Discovery Children’s Museum’s engaging exhibits or dive deep into African-American history at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum.
• Live Entertainment: Enjoy concerts at Power Plant Live.
• Tour Historic Ships: Go see the USS Constellation and other historic maritime exhibits.
Eats:
• Blackwall Hitch: This seafood two-story restaurant is perfect to enjoy the waterfront view.
• Phillips Seafood: Best known for its fresh crab cakes and seafood, Phillips Seafood allows you to enjoy fresh cuisine while taking in the Patapsco Riverview.
• Rusty Scupper: A seafood staple in Baltimore paired with a great view of the Inner Harbor.
Sweet Treats:
• BMore Licks: A local ice cream shop great for those looking for creative ice cream flavors.
• Maggie Moo’s: A great ice cream shop for those searching for variety, offers mix-in custom creations.
National Harbor Oxon Hill, Maryland
The National Harbor offers a vibrant nightlife scene and high-energy entertainment, making it great for a night out in the town along the Potomac River.
Things to Do:
• Ride the Capital Wheel: For a unique view of the waterfront, take a ride on the 180-feet-tall Ferris wheel.
• Live Entertainment: Enjoy live music, highenergy comedy, and audience interaction at Bobby Mckey’s Dueling Piano Bar.
• Go to MGM National Harbor: An upscale casino, hotel, and entertainment venue, perfect for a night out.
• Visit the Awakening Statue: Embedded in the sand, the statue is strikingly unique.
Places to eat:
• Grace’s Mandarin: Offering Asian-fusion-styled cuisine, this spot provides great food with spectacular views.
• Fiorella Italian Kitchen: A cozy restaurant that serves handmade pizzas and pasta.
• Succotash: Check out this spot for all your traditional Southern favorites.
With a background in Human Resources, Shana brings a unique blend of people skills, professionalism, and empathy to her real estate practice. “Buying or selling a home is often tied to a personal story,” she explains. “My job is to build genuine relationships and serve with care and intention - because every client’s journey matters.”
Specializing exclusively in residential real estate, she takes pride in helping firsttime buyers. Her biggest piece of advice?
“Credit is everything,” she says. She also stresses the importance of partnering with a knowledgeable, trustworthy agent. “Lean on your realtor and get to know them, too. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.”
Today, Shana Tinsley is more than a real estate agent - she’s a trusted advisor, a passionate advocate, and a communitydriven leader dedicated to making homeownership dreams a reality.
As a certified Military Relocation Professional and a veteran herself, Shana deeply understands the unique challenges that come with military moves. “With veterans, it’s all about trust,” she says. “There’s a bond we already share - that sense of understanding makes all the difference.” She also equipped to handle a range of transactions, including land, new construction and luxury properties.
Shana is passionate about helping clients build solid futures and lasting legacies. Her excellence hasn’t gone unnoticed - she’s been featured in Washingtonian Magazine as one of the area’s top agents and most recently received the prestigious Platinum Award from the Prince George’s County Association of Realtors, a distinction awarded to the top 1% of agents in the county.
Originally from Indiana, Shana has called Maryland home since 2009 and has been an active member of her community for over 13 years. She is a retired veteran who proudly served her country for more than 20 years! With the creative skills and abilities honed through her military career, Shana epitomizes integrity and carries the values of hard work, dedication, and outstanding service with her in everything she does. With a passion for service, she is ready to help you with your home buying and selling goals. She promises to consult with you, negotiate for you, and ensure every detail of the real estate process is covered.
When she isn’t making homeownership dreams come true for her clients, she enjoys spending time with her family, outdoor activities, reading, and watching HGTV. Shana lives in Bowie, MD with her husband and three children.
if you’re thinking about selling, buying or leasing, move with Shana!
Melissa Swaby, who co-owns the food spot alongside its founder—her husband, Anthony Swaby, describes the pair’s desire to have a restaurant that caters to a variety of people.
“He just wanted to create a restaurant that had an environment with the Caribbean culture and vibe and also provided certain foods, where people that had those restrictions could enjoy,” she explains, describing her husband’s vision for Seta Oasis.
Growing up around her grandmother, who was deeply involved with catering and baking, Swaby is no stranger to the restaurant industry. However, when it comes to experience in the industry, she said that’s where her husband shines the brightest.
“This is his dream. He wanted to do this all of his life,” she says. “He wanted to own his own restaurant and be able to share with others the type of food that he felt like was health conscious and also had flavor.”
Swaby said that Anthony Swaby wanted to use his experience and love for food as a way of sharing his culture and love with others. The pair makes it their mission to keep customer service at the forefront of their business, ensuring that every customer who comes to Seta Oasis has enjoyed their time.
Whether you want to lounge on the patio with fresh squeezed juice or party in the VIP room with friends, Seta Oasis sets the perfect tone for any occasion.
“We say it’s a vibe, so when you come to see the Oasis, you’re gonna get a vibe,” Swaby said. “You’re gonna have a good time. Relax.”
With its tropical-inspired decor and vibrant watercolors, Seta Oasis is more than just a restaurant—it’s an experience. A place to get away and just relax, featuring original art pieces from Swaby herself.
Swaby’s artwork ties back to the couple’s journey with the restaurant and how far they have come. The main dining room showcases some of her latest art pieces, many of which prominently display circular designs.
“I’ve been stuck on this circle thing and to me, the circle is like coming full circle,” she shares. “Being on this path for a long time, you’re kind of wondering where this path is going to lead you, and then eventually, you get full.”
Above all, Swaby wants customers to come, relax, enjoy their meal, and have something nice to look at while they dine.
As the couple eagerly prepares for the Seta Oasis’ grand opening on April 12, they look forward to welcoming the community and sharing a part of their culture with the city of D.C.
“It’s a vibe. We want people to come and relax and feel like they’re in an Oasis and not feel like they’re in a regular restaurant,” Swaby said. “We want to provide a little different experience than the others.”
AS THE SEASONS CHANGE FROM WINTER INTO SPRING AND FLOWERS BEGIN TO BLOOM, MANY AROUND THE DMV AREA WILL LOOK TO BREAK OUT THEIR HOUSEPLANTS AND GARDENING TOOLS TO BRIGHTEN UP THEIR HOME. FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR ADVICE ON PLANT CARE OR HOPING TO REVITALIZE THEIR GARDEN SPACE, JACKIE’S GARDENING GEMS SERVES AS A ONE-STOP SHOP FOR PLANT CARE AND GARDENING NEEDS.
Founded by owner Jackie Foster, Jackie’s Gardening Gems is a local business that provides professional plant care and maintenance services to homes and offices. As a trained botanist, Foster built her business on her passion for gardening from a young age and the desire to help others. “From an early age, I was always growing things. We always had a backyard garden,” said Foster about her love for gardening and plants. “I later earned my degree in botany; that solidified my appreciation for plants and how much plants impact our lives. Over the years, my love for plants and gardening blossomed into this business.”
Jackie’s Gardening Gems Story
Article by Christian Marshall
Photos by Veronica Fountain
From Banking to New York Life, Lawrence Marshall Puts Families First
Article By Anijah Franklin
Photos by Veronica Fountain
For 17 years , all Lawerence Marshall knew was working in the banking world. (Bank teller, banker, teller manager, senior banker. ) He started at Suntrust, before BB&T and Suntrust merged to become Truist Financial, and he worked in several positions — bank teller, banker, teller manager, and senior bank.
He didn’t plan to become an agent at New York Life Insurance Company, where he would focus on protection first and then help clients reach their life goals.
“When I was approached by New York Life Insurance, it came full circle,” Marshall said. “At the bank, I wanted to do more for those people, and now I’m in a role where I can do for people— helping [them] be prepared to not have to go through some of the struggles that came about because of COVID-19.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), January 2021 had the highest number of COVID-19 deaths per week: 25,974.
The COVID-19 lockdown caused a global economic recession, meaning many people lost their jobs, their loved ones and even their lives without insurance.
“Groups with lower health
insurance coverage had significantly higher mortality as well as greater case counts and hospitalization,” a National Institutes of Healthstudy reads.
“Early in the pandemic, they were also less likely to be tested for COVID-19.”
With over 12,000 agents across the nation and over 180 years in business, New York Life Insurance Company connects you with an agent in your community to provide insurance, retirement products and services.
“I just really fell in love with their values as a company and their strength, being Triple A-rated across the board,” he said.
The company consistently receives the highest financial strength ratings from major rating agencies, including AAA from Fitch and Aaa from Moody’s.
The New York Life Foundation, established in 1979, reflects New York Life’s commitment to service and humanity. It supports programs that benefit young people, focusing on educational enhancement and childhood bereavement support.
The New Health Wave, Juicing
Photos by Veronica Fountain
A couple decades ago, juicing was something that only overzealously healthconscious people did. Today, it's much more popular. People are juicing to lose weight, to cleanse and to consume more nutrients. Juicers are sold not only via infomercials, but can easily be found in department stores. Juice bars have popped up not just in hip California neighborhoods, but even in the Midwest.
Like many aspects of nutrition and weight loss, there is not a one-size-fits-all answer to the topic of juicing. Read on to find out if juicing can benefit you and your goals.
What Exactly Is Juicing, Anyway?
Juicing is the process of extracting the juice from fresh fruits and vegetables. A small kitchen appliance known as a juicer is used to extract the juice; these can range in price from $50-$500. Drinking the juice of fruits and vegetables means consuming their water and much of their vitamin and mineral content; however, the pulp, or fiber, which also has many health benefits, is removed. (Note: Some high-powered juicers do retain most of the pulp in the juice, thus resulting in a thicker juice.)
There are a few main types of juicers out on the market today:
''FAST'' JUICERS
This type of juicer is one of the most common varieties on the market. A fast juicer (or centrifugal juicer) grinds your fruits and veggies and then pushes the extracted juice through a strainer by spinning at a very high speed. The pulp is extracted and ejected into a special compartment, usually near the back of the juicer. This type of juicer produces pulpfree juice very quickly, but it also tends to extract less juice than other types of juicers. It also generates more heat than other types, which some experts say could compromise the nutrients in the produce.
"SLOW" JUICERS
This juicer produces juice in two steps, using one or two gears. First, it crushes the fruits and veggies, and then it presses out the juice. These types of juicers take longer to produce juice, and they tend to be more expensive than most centrifugal juicers. However, they are said to extract more nutrients. They yield a thick juice with more pulp, yet still produce some pulp extract in a separate compartment.
''WHOLE FOOD'' JUICERS
These juicers are reminiscient of blenders. Using sharp blades at high speeds, they are able to pulverize whole fruits and veggies into liquid. These do not have a separate pulp compartment.
Fresh juices should not be confused with smoothies, which are usually made in a blender, food processor or highpowered juicer and include the fibrous pulp of the fruit and vegetable ingredients (and can often contain a blend of fruit, vegetables, juice, dairy and other ingredients).
“It became something where I had to really sharpen my skills and learn the business and learn how to prospect and learn how to be the best at everything,” she said.
Forced to adapt to a market that was rapidly changing, Littlefield quickly became a jack of all trades in real estate from mastering photography and marketing her brand to becoming proficient in hosting open houses.
Her commitment to greatness and tenacity during the recession laid down the framework for what would later be a long-lasting and impactful career in real estate.
Fast forward to the present day, Littlefield is better known across the DMV area as “The Real
Queen of Real Estate,” specializing in property sales all over the region.
Licensed in Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia with nearly 18 years of experience, Littlefield comes with a wealth of knowledge that sets her apart from her competitors. Aside from her extensive experience in the industry, Littlefield also holds an impressive plethora of credentials including: an Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR), a Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource (SFR), a Seller Representative Specialist (SRS), a Military Relocation Professional (MRP) and a Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE).
Littlefield strives to provide the best service possible. She possesses an expert-level understanding of investment and redevelopment,
Where to Travel In Summer: U.S. & International Destinations
By Anijah Franklin
As the days grow warmer and longer, the countdown to summer lessons more and more each day. For some, that means their vacation days will be put in. There are so many places to visit and explore, whether for the rich culture, the tourist attractions, the local food, or all of the above. Here are a few destinations you can add to your list for summer 2025. Let’s start with places where you may need a Real ID to get to (as of May 7) but not a passport.
Chicago, IL
Chicago comes alive in the summer with music festivals and a variety of food selections. The nationally known Lollapalooza festival brings in thousands of fans, while the Taste of Chicago Festival offers an array of different flavors from restaurants and a culinary journey through the city’s diverse food scene. Take a boat tour on Lake Michigan, relax on North Avenue beach and experience Black culture through the DuSable Museum of African American History and Black owned restaurants like Virtue and Batter & Berries.
• Tourist Life: Bustling and lively.
• Climate: Warm, occasional humidity (70s-90s).
• Transportation: L-train, walkable city.
• Nightlife: Jazz clubs, rooftop bars and concerts.
New Orleans is rich in Black and Southern culture, making it a top destination for summertime.
Essence Festival of Culture, held in July, is a must for music lovers, shoppers, and a chance to hear from celebrity or community speakers. Enjoy Creole cuisine at Dooky Chase’s, explore the French Quarter, visit the Backstreet Cultural Museum and take a swamp tour through the Bayou.
• Tourist Life: Lively, full of history and culture.
• Climate: Hot and humid (80s-90s).
• Transportation: Streetcars, Uber, some walkable areas.
• Nightlife: Bourbon Street, Frenchmen Street live music.
New Orleans, LA - Visit NOLA
Indonesia Bali
Bali is known for affordable luxury, tropical landscapes and Instagram-worthy spots like the Bali Swing. Stay in a private villa, visit Tegenungan Waterfalls, explore the famous temples of Uluwatu and Tanah Lot and relax at Seminyak Beach.
• Nightlife: Jungle bars, beach clubs and fire dance performances.
Martha’s Vineyard, MA
Martha’s Vineyard is the vacation spot for lots of families, including the Obamas and Oprah. Known for its Black history and even roots to the Harlem Renaissance, it’s long been a retreat for affluent Black vacationers. Shearer Cottage, a historic black-owned inn, was in business for over decades. Enjoy seafood at the net result, explore Oak Bluffs, visit Inkwell Beach and take in the charm of the island’s scenic ports and cottages.
• Tourist Life: Quiet, exclusive and culturally rich.
• Nightlife: Jazz lounges, cozy bars and oceanfront dining.
Here are a few destinations if you’re looking to leave the States and get some stamps on your passport.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Take a trip to the Carribean! San Juan offers rich history, stunning beaches and lively nightlife. You can visit Old San Juan for colorful colonial architecture or take a hike at El Yunque Rainforest, kayak in the bioluminescent bay at Fajardo, or experience riding ATVs in Carolina.
• Tourist Life: Affordable, family-friendly and lively.
• Climate: Tropical (80s-90s).
• Transportation: Uber is best, limited public transportation.
• Nightlife: La Placita, Salsa clubs, beach bars, casinos.
Thailand Phuket and Bangkok
Thailand offers a mix of relaxation and adventure. Phuket is home to stunning beaches like Patong Beach and Nai Harn Beach, while Bangkok street food at Yahwahat (Chinatown), temples such as Wat Arun, and night markets like Chatuchak provide endless exploration opportunities. For a natural escape, visit Surat Thani for boat tours, bungalows on the water and the stunning lagoons of Khao Sok National Park.
• Tourist Life: Bustling, rich in history and nature
Brazil Salvador, Rio de Janeiro, Brasília Colombia Cartagena
Salvador is the heart of Afro-Brazilian culture, while Rio de Janeiro offers breathtaking beaches and carnival vibes. Enjoy capoeira performances, visit Pelourinho (Salvador historic center), relax on Copacabana and Ipanema beaches and take a cable car to Sugarloaf Mountain.
• Tourist Life: Lively, filled with festivals and history.
• Climate: Warm year-round (70s-90s).
• Transportation: Uber, buses, walkable in city centers.
This coastal city boasts of Afro-Caribbean food, colorful streets and crystal clear beaches. Cartagena’s ATV tours through the countryside, snorkeling excursions at the Rosario Islands and gourmet dining experiences make it a tropical paradise.
