Issue #044

Navigating the Path to Homeownership with Bowie First

The "Bowie First" Mortgage Assistance Program is a pioneering initiative that underscores Bowie's dedication to promoting homeownership and community empowerment. Aimed at supporting first-time homebuyers, the program offers financial assistance to overcome the hurdles of down payments and closing costs, making homeownership more accessible and affordable.

Beyond financial aid, it incorporates an educational aspect to ensure participants are well-prepared for the responsibilities of homeownership, fostering long-term stability. This initiative reflects Bowie's commitment to diversity, economic vitality, and community belonging, serving as a model for cities nationwide in supporting residents' aspirations for homeownership. The program is a testament to Bowie's vision of nurturing dreams and ensuring that homeownership is within reach for those who see it as part of their American dream, thereby enhancing the quality of life and community engagement in Bowie.

👉️ For more information

Embracing Life's Journey Through Travel: Meet Nikki Chestnut

In Bowie, where community and resilience shine, Nikki Chestnut stands out as a testament to living life fully.

Married for nearly 25 years, Nikki's life is a shared journey with her husband, Keith, two children, Torri and Julius, and their pets, Roscoe and Lola. This tight-knit family has weathered storms together, including Nikki's valiant battle against breast cancer. A survivor in every sense, Nikki's ordeal has not only strengthened her resolve but also reshaped her outlook on life.

Living in Bowie for as long as she's been married, Nikki has deeply rooted herself in the community. Her past volunteer work, including significant contributions to Alana Beard's Future Girls Basketball Program, All Star Mentoring, Inc., and Jay-Bird Sports, LLC, showcases her commitment to enriching lives around her.

The Birth of a Dream

But it's her passion for travel that has ignited Nikki's most adventurous venture yet. The founder of Dream 1st, Travel 2nd, Nikki's leap into entrepreneurship was fueled by her lifelong love for exploration. "If I could go somewhere every month, I would," she shares, reflecting on her role as the perennial planner of group trips. Her meticulous attention to detail and preparedness has made traveling with her an experience cherished by many.

This love for travel, however, is more than just a hobby. It's a calling. After battling breast cancer, Nikki was reminded of the fragility of life and the importance of pursuing one's passions. "I realized, this is my zone! I really enjoy learning about the world, and I want others to experience it as well," she enthuses.

Dreams Don't End in Sleep

Her company's name, Dream 1st, Travel 2nd, resonates with the belief that Nikki lives by—dreaming is just the beginning. It's a message she passionately believes in: to dream, but also to dare to make those dreams a reality. With over 30 states and numerous Caribbean islands under her belt, Nikki's expertise, particularly in Caribbean and group travel, is not just impressive; it's inspirational.

A Call to Adventure

As February unfolds, Nikki is on the lookout for specials to share with her travel group, a testament to her commitment to making travel accessible and exciting. Her journey from cancer survivor to travel aficionado is a poignant reminder of life’s impermanence and the beauty of chasing what brings joy.

Nikki Chestnut's story is not just about surviving; it's about thriving. It's a narrative of love, resilience, and the endless pursuit of happiness, painted against the backdrop of the world's most stunning vistas. For those dreaming of their next adventure, Nikki’s message is clear: "You only have 1 life to live. Be Happy and do what you love."

In Bowie and beyond, Nikki Chestnut isn't just planning trips; she's crafting dreams, one destination at a time.

Contact Information 👇️ 

Nikki Chestnut Dream 1st - Travel 2nd Email: [email protected] Phone: 240-709-5909 Website: www.evotravelagent.com/dream1sttravel2nd

What was the original name of the city of Bowie, MD, before it was rechartered as Bowie in 1880?

A) Huntington City

B) Plumbville

C) Duckettown

D) Oglethorpe

Answer below

February 16

• Celebrating Black Winemakers - Featuring Kindra Dionne Overdue Recognition Art Gallery, 15402 Emerald Way, Bowie, MD 20716. 7:00pm to 10:00pm

• Platinum for Laughs and SouthernGal Productions Comedy Show featuring Felicia “FeFe” Frazier, Wendy “Quiet Storm” Lee, Christina “Ella the Spella” Wilson, and Theresa “TERECKA” Melton. Bowie Center for the Performing Arts, 15200 Annapolis Rd Bowie, MD 20715. 7:00pm and 9:00pm

February 17

• Couples Love Meditation - A Sensual Sound Bath Experience for Couples, South Bowie Branch Library, PGCMLS, 15301 Hall Road, Bowie, 20721. 11:30am to 12:30pm

• The Halfsmokes, Old Bowie Town Grille, 8604 Chestnut Avenue, Bowie, MD

• Funny Southern Gals Comedy Show, Bowie Center For The Performing Arts, 15200 Annapolis Rd, Bowie, MD 20715

• Black History Family Affair, Lake Arbor Community Center

  10100 Lake Arbor Way, Bowie 20721, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

• Jyla's Studio of Dance Presents: All Of My Help 2, Bowie Center for the Performing Arts, 15200 Annapolis Rd Bowie, MD 20715

• Bowie ISI Valentine’s Figure Skating Competition, Bowie Ice Arena, 3330 Northview Dr, Bowie, MD 20716. 1:00pm

February 18

• Araminta: An American Shero: The Real Harriet Tubman Story, Bowie Center for the Performing Arts, 15200 Annapolis Rd Bowie, MD 20715. 2:00pm & 7:00pm

• Sixx Cool Moms of PG County Sweet Treats for Valentine's Day, 15480 Annapolis Rd Suite 204, Bowie, MD.

• Straight 2 The Heart - Zumbathon Fundraiser, Fitness 4 Less Gym 6824 Laurel Bowie Road Bowie, MD 20715 2:30pm - 4:30pm

February 19

• The City of Bowie offices are closed for Presidents' Day and trash and recycling collection is canceled on that date.

• Party Planning Networking Day Party, M Lounge Events, 15619 Emerald Way, Bowie, MD 20716. 12:00pm - 3:00pm

February 20

• Glenn Dale Citizens' Association February Meeting, Virtual Event, Register by sending an email to [email protected]. 7:30pm

• AARP Smart Driver Course™, Bowie Senior Center, 14900 Health Center Dr Bowie, MD 20716 9:45 am to 3:00pm

February 21

• Coffee with a Cop: Coffee and conversations with Bowie Police officers, Starbucks Free State Shopping Center

  15480 Annapolis Road Bowie, MD 20715. 10:00am - 12:00pm

February 23

• Council Member Ingrid S. Watson Presents District 4 Reusable Bags Giveaway, City of Bowie City Hall 15901 Fred Robinson Way Bowie, MD 20716 - 8:30am - 10:00am

• Black History Wellness & Fashion Show, Bowie State University, Student Center, 14000 Jericho Park Road, Bowie, MD 20715. 6:00pm - 9:00pm

• Men of Distinction Presents: The 2nd Annual Black History Showcase, Bowie Center for the Performing Arts, 15200 Annapolis Rd Bowie, MD 20715. 6:00pm

February 24

• Joe Clair Presents: Bangin’ In Bowie featuring Talent and John Hinton, Bowie Center for the Performing Arts, 15200 Annapolis Rd Bowie, MD 20715. 7:00pm and 9:00pm

• A Taste of HAE, by the Hope and Encouragement Foundation. The Royal Ballroom, Old Jericho Park Rd, Bowie, MD, 20720. 6:30pm - 11pm

• Fall In Love with Candle Making Workshop, 6600 Laurel - Bowie Road Bowie, MD 20715. 1:00pm - 3:30pm

• City of Bowie National Anthem and Voice of Bowie Auditions, open to individuals and groups.

February 26

• "The Upstanders" Film & Discussion hosted by the Bowie Youth & Family Services. Free. Seating is limited. Registration Required 6:00pm

February 27

• Community Matters with Bowie Police Chief Dwayne A. Preston, Huntington Community Center 13022 8th St, Bowie, MD 20715. 7:00pm - 9:00pm

• Open Mic: Fresh Voices Series: Presented by Dialect Poets of Prince George’s County (Teens 13 - 18). 15210 Annapolis Rd, Bowie, MD 20715. 4:00pm - 5:30pm

February 28

• #BowieSpeaks Community Conversation hosted by the City of Bowie Diversity Committee in honor of Black History Month. Theme, “What Happened to the Dream?”. City Hall Council Chambers 15901 Fred Robinson Way Bowie, MD 20716 7:00pm to 8:00pm

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