The Pri nce Ge orge’s Pos t

OMMUNITY EWSPAPER FOR RINCE EORGE S OUNTY SINCE A C N P G ’ C 1932 Vol. 88, No. 16 April 16 — April 22, 2020 Prince George’s County, Maryland Newspaper of Record Phone: 301-627-0900 25 cents

County Executive Alsobrooks Signs Executive Order Nathaniel Richardson, Jr. Requiring Face Coverings For Patrons in Grocery Stores Named President and CEO of The Executive Order Also Requires “TheBus” Transit Riders To Wear Face Coverings UM Capital Region Health By JANIA MATTHEWS By GINA FORD, COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR customers who need these essential services, it is critical that each Office of the County Executive, Prince George’s County person does their part to cover their faces and minimize their ex - University of Maryland posure to others.” Capital Region Health LANDOVER, Md. (April 11, 2020)—Prince George’s County Ex - this Executive Order [took] effect Wednesday, April 15, ecutive Angela Alsobrooks announced today that she will sign an 2020 . The order will also require that grocery stores, pharmacies CHEVERLY , Md. (April 10, Executive Order requiring all patrons shopping in County grocery and large retailers promote social distancing inside and outside of 2020)—Nathaniel “Nat” Richard - stores, pharmacies and large chain retail establishments to wear the stores while customers wait. son Jr. has been named the new masks or face coverings to enter. The order also requires individuals “These steps will be critical to help us flatten the curve and President and Chief Executive Of - who ride “TheBus”, Prince George’s County’s bus transit system, prevent the spread of COVID-19,” said Prince George’s County ficer for University of Maryland to also wear masks or face coverings onboard. Health Officer Earnest Carter. “We know there are people with the Capital Region Health (UM Cap - “The safety and wellbeing of all Prince Georgians during this virus who are walking around and showing no symptoms, and ital), effective May 18. After a pandemic is my top priority,” said Alsobrooks. “For the protection these actions will prevent them from spreading it to others. Consider national search, Richardson was PHOTO COURTESY UM CAPITAL REGION HEALTH of employees who work in these establishments, as well as the it an act of love.” selected to lead UM Capital in its continued efforts to transform recently, he served as President of health care in Prince George’s Decatur Morgan Hospital near County—a transformation that in - Huntsville, Alabama. While in this PGCMLS Expands Virtual Programs: Lineup Now cludes a focus on providing state- role, Richardson was charged with of-the-art clinical care with com - bringing three competitor hospi - Includes Weekly Spanish Language and StEM Programs passion and community tals together to form Decatur Mor - leadership while meeting the gan, a large regional system By DONNA SCOTT-MARTIN highest standards of patient safety. within the Huntsville Hospital PGCMLS “Nat will lead the organization Health System. Since 2005 at a pivotal time in its history. UM Richardson served in multiple ex - LARGO , Md. (April 9, Capital Region Health continues ecutive roles within this Health 2020)—The Prince George’s on its journey to provide compas - System and his executive over - County Memorial Library Sys - sionate, high-quality, patient and sight has included all major serv - tem (PGCMLS) is pleased to family-centered care, demonstrate ice lines and divisions. expand opportunities for the its commitment to the communi - “I am very humbled and hon - community to engage with the ties it serves, transition to its new ored to have been selected to join Library from home through vir - flagship hospital in Largo, and University of Maryland Capital tual programs. While the Li - transform the Health and Wellness Region Health as President and brary has offered free virtual Campus in Laurel.” says Mohan CEO,” says Richardson. I was programs throughout the Suntha, MD, MBA, President and drawn to the passionate commit - COVID-19 emergency, there is Chief Executive Officer, Univer - ment from executive leadership, now more content than ever be - sity of Maryland Medical System. medical staff, the Board of Direc - fore with up to 60 programs on “I have every confidence that Nat tors and others who are laser fo - offer every week. Regular will deliver on his charge to ex - cused on providing high-quality IMAGE COURTESY PGCMLS weekly programs for children pand the vision and strategy for patient and family centered are available in English, Span - UM Capital that will propel the healthcare to residents in Prince ish, and American Sign Lan - from local government to discuss resources smuggled into slavery. Made possible organization into a bright future George’s County and the sur - guage. Adult and teen programs include and current issues, ranging from Census to by the PGCMLS Foundation. Check out for its employees, patients and the rounding area. I am ready to part - the weekly Community Conversation se - Small Business Resources, in Prince the eBook or audiobook at pgcmls. community.” ner with staff, community leaders, ries with PGCMLS CEO Roberta Phillips, George’s County and the DMV area. The overdrive.com. Richardson is a native of and elected officials to help the National Poetry Month event featuring lo - program is hosted by Vilma Sandoval-Sall, On tuesday, April 28 at 7 p.m. , Houston Texas with over 34 years organization reach its fullest po - cal poet and Board of Library Trustees English Language Learner Program Coor - Michelle Hamiel (COO of Support Serv - of healthcare experience. Most tential.” member Hiram Larew, and a wide range dinator, PGCMLS. ices, PGCMLS) and Kyla Hanington of author and book discussion events. All The Library continues to commemorate (Prince George’s County Human Relations University of Maryland Capital of the Library’s virtual programs are listed National Poetry Month this program, Poetry Commission) will lead a discussion of at pgcmls.info/virtual-events. Virtual of Hope: An Open Mic-Online Poetry Read - Verna Myers’ “What if I Say the Wrong Region Health Announces events produced by the Library are broad - ing, hosted by Hiram Larew, local poet and Thing?: 25 Habits for Culturally Effective cast on Crowdcast, with select additional PGCMLS Board of Library Trustees member People.” Check out the eBook at Progress on Temporary Expansion streams to Facebook, YouTube, and on Wednesday, April 15, 2020 at 7 p.m. The pgcmls.overdrive.com. Periscope. event is an open virtual gathering for local PGCMLS CEO Roberta Phillips’ weekly Of UM Laurel Medical Center The Library’s virtual programs fre - poets and spoken word artists to share their Community Conversation series ( thurs - System engaged in exhaustive preparation to quently feature special guests from partner work and connect with each other. days at 4 p.m. ) provides opportunities for organizations like Joe’s Movement Empo - PGCMLS and the Old Greenbelt Theatre the community to hear from local leaders increase bed, staff, equipment capacity— rium, the Prince George’s County Police are partnering to present the longstanding about the resources available to them during adapting to COVID-19 pandemic Department, the Prince George’s County Storytime on Screen series as a live virtual the public health emergency. Each discus - By JANIA MATTHEWS Larry Hogan and in close part - Human Relations Commission, the Prince event on the second and fourth Mondays sion features an open question and answer University of Maryland nership with the Maryland De - George’s County Office of Community Re - of each month at 10:30 a.m. ([began] April session. The guest speaker on Thursday, Medical System partment of Health (MDH), the lations, the Laurel Police Department, and 13). The program is hosted by Heather Jack - April 9 [was] Renée Battle-Brooks, Exec - University of Maryland Medical the City of Bowie. son, West Area Manager, PGCMLS. utive Director, Prince George’s County Hu - CHEVERLY, Md. (April 9, System (UMMS) and UM Cap - Spanish language virtual programs are The inaugural Authors for Truth event man Relations Commission. 2020)—The University of Mary - ital Region Health are currently now available on a weekly basis. They in - (Dr. Richard Bell on “Stolen”), which was New virtual events are added on a daily land Capital Region Health to - in the process of temporarily ex - clude Biblioniños, a biweekly Spanish read- previously postponed due to the COVID- basis. Virtual programs from trusted ex - day announced progress on the panding UM Laurel Medical aloud program for children ages 2 –5, and a 19 emergency, will be offered as a live vir - ternal organizations, such as the Cincin - opening of the temporary expan - Center in order to meet patient bilingual English/Spanish read-aloud on tual event on tuesday, April 21 at 7 p.m. nati Zoo & Botanic Garden and the sion of UM Laurel Medical Cen - demand. At the current rate of Saturday at 9:30 a.m. Beginning on tues - “Stolen: Five Free Boys Kidnapped into Houston Children’s Museum, are listed ter and provided additional de - progress, it is expected that the day, April 21 at 4 p.m. , the Library will Slavery and their Astonishing Odyssey tails on the future use of the offer a weekly “Café a las cuatro” series of Home” (2019) is a gripping and true story facility in response to COVID- discussions in Spanish with special guests about five boys who were kidnapped and See PGCMLS VIRtUAL Page A2 19. At the direction of Governor See UM LAUREL Page A6

• Read through several existing dispelled. Maryland Coronavirus (COVID-19) Rumor Control Page Launches rumors and find the correct in - - Ask a question. Empowers Marylanders to Call Out False Information, Promote Facts formation in a variety of top - - See a digest of trusted ics, including sources and see their latest By PRESS OFFICER to COVID-19, MEMA stood up and we want Maryland residents - The Novel Coronavirus and and most relevant social Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) its Joint Information Center to to be able to participate in the the disease it causes, media posts in real time. provide the right information to process by helping us identify ru - COVID-19 - Share the page easily to REISTERSTOWN, Md. (April nology (DoIT), today launched the right people at the right time mors and false information that - Maryland and Federal Gov - Facebook, Twitter, email, 7, 2020)—The Maryland Emer - the Maryland Coronavirus so they can be empowered to could unnecessarily cause panic ernment Orders and more. gency Management Agency (COVID-19) Rumor Control make the right decisions,” said or worse, result in decision mak - - Supplies “If you see something, say (MEMA), in partnership with the Page. Marylanders are encour - Jorge E. Castillo, MEMA’s ing that could lead to severe in - - School / Education something,” continued Castillo. Maryland Department of Health aged to visit the page at spokesperson. “We have been juries or even death. ” • Subscribe to updates to be no - “You can say it by clicking on (MDH), and the Maryland De - Bit.ly/Md-Covid19-Rumors. dispelling rumors and providing Maryland’s Rumor Page al - tified immediately once a new the Submit a Rumor button on partment of Information Tech - “As part of the State Response factual information since then, lows visitors to: rumor has been identified and the right side of the page.”

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the YMCA of Metropolitan SBA Clarifies Eligibility of ChildWatch: National Donate Life Month Your Backyard Isn’t Cancelled: Washington Provides Faith-Based Organizations to A Season for Renewal and Hope Six tips to Celebrate Earth Day Free Mental Health Counseling Communities With Critical Participate in Paycheck All over the world, resilience, Right at Home Services For First Responders Services Protection and Economic Injury strength, compassion and innovation The environmental education pro - ... the YMCA of Metropolitan Disaster Loan Programs will grow from under this tragedy. Prince George’s County Support gram resources and activities, based Washington is offering an exciting ar - “Faith-based organizations have “We honor the tears, but we also Groups Move to telehealth on STEM (science, technology, engi - ray of free virtual YMCA experiences always provided critical social serv - bless the hope.” neering and math) principles, give Alzheimer’s Association Chapter online ices for people in need, and SBA will kids the prompts they need to have Offers Free Virtual Education make clear that these organizations fun earning about and exploring the Classes may access this emergency capital.” nature and science. Community, Page A3 Business and Finance , Page A5 Commentary, Page A6 Health and Wellness , Page A7 Environment , Page A9 A2 — April 16 — April 22, 2020 — The Prince George’s Post TOWNS and NEIGHBORS In & Around Morningside-Skyline by Mary McHale 301-735-3451 Morningside election moved to July NBC4 news anchor Jim Vance is be - May they rest in peace Around the County Mayor Benn Cann emailed word that ing remembered at Archbishop Carroll Robert “Bobby” Jones, 75, of Hunt - their election will be in July, the exact date High School in Washington with the ded - ingtown, who attended Suitland High Ledo Pizza Launches ‘Pizzas For the Frontline’ to be decided. He says it will give candi - ication of the new Jim Vance Media Cen - School, died April 3. He’s survived by dates time to campaign. Also, to allow vot - ter, which houses an advanced program his wife Eileen Caffrey Jones (Class of to Feed Medical Professionals and ers to send absentee ballots if they chose for students studying journalism and me - ’63), son Steven, daughter Robin, and First Responders to not come to the Town Hall. The election dia. The ribbon was cut on March 12. two grandchildren. Maryland-based pizza brand to donate meals to was originally scheduled for May 4. Jim Vance died July 22, 2017, at the age Keith Valentine, of Suitland, was rid - heroes on the frontlines He also said they would be having of 75, and I miss him. ing a dirt bike on March 20 along the ANNAPOLIS, Md. (April 8, 2020)—In response to these unprecedented their Town Work Session and Town Hall Archbishop of the Military Services 3100 block of Branch Avenue when he times, Ledo Pizza has launched its “Pizzas for the Frontline” initiative to meetings via Teleconference. “People can USA, Timothy P. Broglio, celebrated the was struck by an SUV as it was making donate meals to medical and first responder facilities. contact the Town Hall,” he said, “and school-children’s Mass on March 2 at St. a left turn. He was taken to the hospital Now through May 31, anyone interested in making a donation to local provide their name and number and we Philip’s. I did a little research on him. where he died. A memorial service was heroes on the frontlines can do so through pizzasforthe will get back with them with a pin so He is a native of Cleveland, has held held at Strickland Funeral Home April 2. frontline.com. 100% of all donations to Pizzas for the Frontline will go directly they can listen if they so choose.” Con - many offices and served in many places He was 38. towards sending Pizza Parties—pizzas, calzones and salads—to medical and tact: 301-736-2300 or generalmail around the world, and is fluent in English, first responder facilities. [email protected]. Italian, Spanish and French. But of Mike Cady, of McNamara, Ledo Pizza will donate Pizza Parties to new facilities each week. To nom - “All events as you can imagine have course, his homily for the children was Class of 1967 inate a local medical or first responder facility, visit been cancelled through May 4th,” the in English. Michael George Cady, 70, of Millville, pizzasforthefrontline.com. Mayor said, “This is an ever-changing Del., who graduated from Bishop Mc - “We want to do what we can to support the brave men and women that situation, but I have been on calls with Dog missing Namara High School as a member of the are working on the frontlines during this pandemic,” said Ledo Pizza Pres - the President, Governor, Senators and A resident of Oakcrest, named Mary, Founding Class of 1967, died at home ident Jamie Beall. “With help from Ledo Pizza fans and partners like Iron - Congressmen, along with our own posted to Nextdoor Morningside: “My March 29. He was born in Washington, mark and Advanced Radiology, we have the ability to say, ‘thank you’ by County Executive to ensure I am yorkie has gotten out of the house. He son of Clement and Betty Cady, and grew giving back to these heroes.” equipped with up-to-date information and does not have a collar. He’s brown, white, up in Forestville. In an abundance of caution, Ledo Pizza is currently offering contactless resources to offer residents. I will keep and silver. If you see him, please call He excelled in football, golf, and bas - carryout. To place an online order, visit order.ledopizza.com. you updated as I get more information.” 301-222-3371.” ketball and was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame in 1997. He earned a B.A. Sad news Skyline Citizens reschedule 50th at Towson State, master’s at George Founded in 1955 in the suburbs of Maryland (Adelphi) and now headquartered As I was submitting my column on Several weeks ago, the Skyline Citi - Washington University and doctorate in Annapolis, Ledo Pizza is a regional pizza franchise that is dedicated to April 10, I got an email from Stephen zens Association sent Save the Date cards from the University of Houston. offering a fresh, affordable menu served in a family-friendly atmosphere. Fre - Armhold, former Morningside Chief of to County officials and others, announc - Mike was employed with the U.S. quently awarded “Best Pizza” recognition in communities across the U.S., Ledo Pizza currently has more than 100 locally owned locations in 7 states with mul - Police. He wrote, “My wife Shawn ing that we’d be celebrating our 50th an - Postal Service, Anne Arundel Commu - tiple new restaurants in the pipeline. Ledo Pizza believes strongly in community passed away April 9, 2020 at the age of niversary on May 16. Because of the un - nity College and the Milton S. Kronheim involvement and the brand is a proud partner of the Virginia Cavaliers and the 76. She died from the virus, and had de - known length of the current pandemic, Co. before moving his family in 1986 to Baltimore Ravens. Ledo Pizza is also the Official Pizza of the Maryland Terrapins. mentia.” the planning committee has decided to League City, Tex., where he worked at The Armholds have been residing in postpone this year’s celebration until College of the Mainland in Texas City. Visit ledopizza.com and follow the brand on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Florida. I’ll ask Stephen to send me an Spring of 2021. They later moved to Arlington, Tex., —By Brooke Sundermier, for Ledo Pizza obituary. Meanwhile, remember the fam - where Mike eventually retired as Vice ily in your prayers. Morningside/Skyline Memories: President for Continuing Education Serv - Event Cancelled: 40 years ago ices at Tarrant County College. ‘An Evening Under the tuscan Sky’ Gala Can you help? The Skyline Citizens Association cel - He missed the beach, especially walk - PASADENA, Md. (April 8, 2020)—As many in the community will agree, Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, in ebrated its 10th anniversary in May with ing the boardwalk in Ocean City. So, in the need to adapt to the everchanging public health crisis of the COVID-19 collaboration with County Council Mem - a parade up Suitland Road, square-danc - 2016 the Cadys moved back East. He’s pandemic is essential. It is for that reason, Hospice of the Chesapeake has ber Monique Anderson-Walker, is spon - ing, barbershop quartet, magic show, survived by his wife Mary, daughters Al - come to recognize over the last several weeks it is necessary to cancel its soring a Community Food Drive on Sat - movies, Gong Show, games, a firetruck lison and Megan, and two grandchildren. annual gala, “An Evening Under the Tuscan Sky,” which had been postponed urdays, April 11 through May 23, 10 a.m. to climb on and food, of course. A celebration of life will be held later. until Saturday, July 18, 2020. to 12 noon. Deliver to Our Saviour’s at Vera Chaney was elected president of Mike Cady is remembered for his This is a decision that was not taken lightly. The organization’s leadership 4915 St. Barnabas Road in Temple Hills. the Morningside Senior Citizens. Other sense of humor and moves on the dance believes that, given current guidance from the Centers for Disease Control Non-perishable food, new plastic officers were Harry Carnes, vice presi - floor. and the State of Maryland, cancelling this event is in the best interest of our bags, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper are dent; Alvina Beardmore, secretary; and larger community. The nonprofit is incredibly grateful for the patience and requested. Louise Rousseaux, treasurer. Milestones continuing support of the many sponsors, ticket holders, vendors, venue and The donations will be for distribution About 200 turned out for the Dedica - Happy birthday to Cameron Trexler, Gala Committee members who have committed time and energy in the planning to St. Stephen Baptist Church (Capital tion of Michael Polley Park in Skyline. April 19; Devaughn Branham, April 20; of this event and apologizes for any inconvenience due to the cancellation. Area Food Bank) at 5757 Temple Hill Skyline officers cut the ribbon. Jill Gilmartin Booth and Tiffany Jackson, Look for a 2021 Gala Save the Date in the coming months. Road. For more information, contact Condolences were extended to the April 21; Taylor Foster, April 22; Jim —Elyzabeth Marcussen, Hospice of the Chesapeake Kathy at 301-326-3263. family of a longtime beloved Morn - Reilly, David Titus, Barbara Sparks and ingsider, Clair Loughmiller, who died Margaret White, April 23; and Edna Lu - Produce Distribution Service Across the DMV Neighbors & other good people Jan. 20. cas, April 24. The YMCA is offering produce distribution across the DMV. Produce is I cruised the Town this week and Citizens for the Branch Avenue Metro Happy anniversary to Jim and Pat available for anyone, free of charge, regardless of their affiliation with the didn’t see a single campaign sign asking protested after the County Council re - Conlon on their 46th, April 20: John and YMCA. Produce will be distributed while supplies last. Morningsiders to vote for Sharon Fowler, fused to hear a discussion. Ruth Anthony, Jr., their 42nd on April Locations and times for produce pickup in/near Prince George’s County Dave Williams, John Anthony or Sheila With the Maryland Primary coming 22; Lewis and Trisha (Pitts) Woods, their are below: Scott. I’ll cruise through again in a couple up May 13, 1980, many were still not 31st on April 22; and Janet and Brian CAQT Apartments: of weeks to see if any signs have registered. The Skyline Newsletter asked Spivey, April 23. 8733 Carroll Ave #4, Silver Spring, MD sprouted. its readers, “Are you registered to vote?” Keep safe! Produce: Wednesdays 4 p.m. –6 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. –12 p.m. YMCA Silver Spring by Audrey Johnson 301-922-5384 Produce: Wednesdays 4 p.m. –6 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. –12 p.m. Brandywine-Aquasco Trinity Lutheran Church: BSU’S WINNING WOMEN INCLUSION FACULtY ADVANCES 6600 Laurel Bowie Rd, Bowie, MD 20715 Toyan Espeut (‘93) is a prominent leader in the technology ORAL HIStORY PROJECt Produce: Mondays 4 p.m. –6 p.m., Tuesdays 9 a.m. –12 p.m. industry. She has led high performing sales teams for start-ups A Bowie State University visual art professor, leading an Follow the @ymcadcfood Instagram and Facebook accounts for cooking and publicly traded software companies locally, in Silicon effort to uncover lost stories of historic African American com - tips and recipes that match the produce distributed. If you are experiencing Valley and Seattle. Toyan also serves on the Technology Busi - munities, was named an Inclusion Visiting Faculty Fellow with hunger and do not know where to find additional resources outside of these ness Management (TBM) Council where she promotes women University of Maryland Baltimore County’s Dresher Center locations, please contact [email protected] so that we can assist you in and diversity in tech along with educating students on STEM for the Humanities. finding those resources. Thank you to our partners at Keany Produce and career paths. Professor Gina Lewis will spend the fall 2020 semester fel - Child Care Resources for your contributions! Her tip for success. “Know your value and how to apply lowship working on a Bowie State research project to collect —Susan Bounds, for YMCA of Metropolitan Washington that value in solving a problem. When you do, you can literally oral histories from descendants of African Americans who lived create your own opportunities!” Information from Office of and worked along the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National His - PGCMLS Virtual from A 1 Alumni Engagement, [email protected]. torical Park, including the Georgetown neighborhood of Wash - Danita Lynn Brooks (‘95) started her career as a high school ington, DC. An interdisciplinary team of student and faculty on the website. Check pgcmls.info/virtual-events for the latest lineup. and college English composition teacher. She learned American researchers, led by Lewis and BSU history professor Dr. David Select past programs are available for viewing on demand at Sign Language and founded English & Sign Language Masters, Reed, is documenting the history and culture of largely forgotten facebook.com/pgcmls and youtube.com/pgcmls. LLC, (ESLM), which provides interpreting services, diversity communities and individuals in photos, videos, and other cre - ative expression. The Bowie State research, funded by the Na - workshops, and editing services. In 2019, she published a Weekly Virtual Children’s Events tional Park Service, is already underway. The Visiting Faculty Live Virtual Read-Aloud | Monday-Saturday at 10 a.m. book, The Other Side of Unforgiveness, and strives to connect Fellowship will enable Lewis to compile a comprehensive Biblioniños (Spanish Read-Alouds) | Tuesday and Friday at 11 a.m. people culturally, linguistically, and emotionally so we can all report of the team’s findings. Goodnight with Dolly | Thursday at 7 p.m. live full lives…together. #LiveLove Forgive. Information Lewis, who is also chairperson of the Department of Fine STEM at Home | Friday at noon from Office of Alumni Engagement, [email protected]. and Performing Arts, is using the fellowship to explore her in - Bilingual (English/Spanish) Live Virtual Read-Aloud | Saturday at 9:30 a.m. UM/W SILHOUEttES 3RD YEAR ANNIVERSARY terest in social justice art that inspires action. Storytelling with ASL | Saturday at 10:30 a.m. (Co-presented with Old VIRtUAL CELEBRAtION “My interests lie in the creation of artwork that is grounded Greenbelt Theatre) Happy Anniversary to Upper Marlboro/Waldorf (MD) Sil - in interdisciplinary perspectives of world issues and solutions,” Yoga for Kids | Saturday at 11 a.m. houettes Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. The Sil - Lewis said. “With this project, I am particularly interested in houettes serve as an auxiliary to the Upper Marlboro/Waldorf the power of communicating the experiences of people by Weekly Virtual Adult & teen Events Digital Demo | Tuesday and Thursday at 3 p.m. (MD) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. We giving them agency in telling their own story and how that Café a las cuatro | Tuesdays at 4 p.m. (beginning April 21) promote social, civic, and economic development within the could be influential in how others perceive the story being told. #PGCMLSBookChat on Twitter | Thursday at 12 p.m. Upper Marlboro/Waldorf communities to make a positive and The arts and humanities provide the means for confronting, contemplating and communicating the nature of our similarities Community Conversation with Roberta Phillips | Thursday at 4 p.m. lasting impact. As wives, mothers, sisters, and daughters we and the beauty of our differences.” Media Contact: Damita Crafternoon | Friday at 3 p.m. lay the foundation of love and devotion that strengthens the Chambers, [email protected]. connection between family and community. The Silhouettes Featured On-Demand Content celebrated their 3rd year Anniversary Thursday, April 2, 2020. APRIL WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Past PGCMLS Virtual Programs Silhouettes are Jacqueline Wilcher, Jacqueline Pryor, Andrea Happy Wedding Anniversary to Ron and Beth Davis, Lloyd ArtistWorks (Music Lessons) Parson, Deneen Spruill, Tonya Barbour, Dora Lucas, Lorraine and Shirley Brown, Trevor and Denise Bourne, Norman and CreativeBug (Arts & Crafts Activities) Bell, Velda McGhee, Levonia Parker, Pretita Perkins, Rosalie Jean Noel, Clarence and Dorothy Glasgow Reid, Eddie and Kanopy Kids (Streaming Movies/Shows) David, Sylvia Sampleton, Kellie Waters, Grace Luke Watson, Ruth Wilson, George and Karen Taylor, Anston and Angela Qello (Concerts) Tanya Holloway, Angela Cameron, Tamisha Semedo, Shemeca Williams, Cosmus and Stephnie Samuel who are celebrating Storyline Online (Storytime) Thomas, Janet Tull, Tonya Tyler and Audrey Johnson. Wedding Anniversaries in April. April 16 — April 22, 2020 — The Prince George’s Post — A 3 COMMUNITY

the American Counseling Association’s the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington Counseling Corner Provides Communities With Critical Services Don’t Let this Health Crisis During COVID-19 Pandemic Overwhelm Your Kids From distributing free produce, providing daycare for essential workers to hosting critically needed blood drives and free online nutrition and exercise programs, the Y steps up for While the coronavirus crisis has increased stress levels for all of us, younger children and teens are often more strongly impacted by such a national health dis - communities across the DMV aster. By SOPHIE SCHEPS • Coordinating virtual volunteer sup - • Nutrition education and cooking in - Kids have not only heard or seen news reports of what is happening but many for YMCA of Metro Washington port for the community, including struction is available at Virtual have also been directly affected by the closing of their schools and colleges. making masks for Y workers. Kitchen. Viewers can learn how to Such changes produce stress and anxiety for young people. Will there be grad - WASHINGTON (April 8, 2020)— “Due to the COVID-19 crisis, the blanche and freeze broccoli, how to uation ceremonies? Will school sports or social events return? I miss my friends. While the YMCA of Metropolitan Y’s buildings may be temporarily make chicken stock, and much I’ve never done online classes before. What if I get sick or my parents do? Washington temporarily closed its fa - closed, however, the Y will continue more. The reduced socialization that was part of each school day is another stress- cility doors on March 16, in response to to be a force of good during this time • Youth development activities are producing factor for many children. And yes, even very young children get scared the COVID-19 pandemic, it did not of great uncertainty. We will provide available in the Virtual Playground, as they hear bits and pieces of the news or see their parents’ anxiety or the differ - close its community support. Instead, critically needed services such as child - with activities for early learning and ences in the way the family is living. the Y is providing vital services to help care for emergency frontline respon - school age children. There are various changes that parents might observe that show how today’s support communities across the Wash - ders and community grocery distribu - • Learn better hand-eye techniques problems are affecting your children. In younger children it might be excessive ington metropolitan area. These include: tion. The Y will also host blood drives and racquet skills in the Virtual Ten - crying or irritation, the return of behaviors previously outgrown, or exhibiting • Distributing free produce across and conduct welfare checks for sen - nis Center. high levels of worry or sadness. each community the YMCA serves. iors,” explained Angie L. Reese- • Enhance swimming skills, water In older children the stress can express itself as changes in eating and sleeping To learn more, please click here; Hawkins, YMCA of Metropolitan safety and more in the Virtual Aquat - habits, or increased levels of irritability and “acting out” behaviors in teens. School • Providing emergency childcare sup - Washington, president and CEO. ics Center. performance may suffer, what were favorite activities may by avoided, and there port for the children of essential “Members of the Y help support these • Strength, community and support might be reports of headaches or body pain for no clear reason. workers (first responders, medical critical services. The Y is here to serve for seniors can be found in the Vir - As a parent you want to try and help your child, regardless of age, understand professionals, etc.) at Y locations in and strengthen the community.” tual Fit & Well Seniors Center. what is going on. An age appropriate discussion of COVID-19 is a starting point, Maryland; To support the mental, physical and one with answers the kids can understand. Try to be reassuring, making your • Holding blood drives in partnership spiritual well-being of the community, The YMCA of Metropolitan Washing - child know that his or her safety is your primary concern. with the Red Cross at Y facilities, while observing social distancing re - ton is a non-profit charity organization Try to limit your kids’ exposure to news or social media stories about what is to address the shortage of blood sup - quirements and other safety protocols, happening. When needed, share solid information from reliable sources rather that has been serving the communities plies in local hospitals; the YMCA of Metropolitan Washing - and families of Washington, D.C., than having the kids pick up misleading “facts,” rumors and advice from the In - • Providing free meals to children at ton is offering an exciting array of free Maryland and Virginia in the areas of ternet. YMCA branches and program cen - virtual YMCA experiences online at youth development, healthy living and The more you can maintain normal, regular family routines, the more comforting ters. Details will soon be available www.ymcadc.org/virtualymca. This social responsibility, for nearly 168 it can be for your children. And the better example you can set by staying reliably here; site contains access to live workouts years. Through opportunities in well - informed and by setting an example, as much as possible, of a normal, healthy • Communicating directly with youth that are updated daily and recorded ness, aquatics, youth sports, summer life, the easier it will be for your children to cope with the stress they may be ex - and their families to provide help video content that is updated weekly camps, childcare and more, the Y en - periencing. Most importantly, don’t skip on reassuring hugs and love for your needed through YMCA Youth and to support: gages more than 250,000 individuals children. Family Services; • Physical activity for all in the Virtual and families. Visit www.ymcadc.org. • Continuing to provide telehealth Wellness Center. Enjoy yoga classes, Members are asked to stay with the Y Counseling Corner is provided by the American Counseling Association. Com - mental health therapy through the the challenge of boot camp, barre, during this critical time to maintain ments and questions to [email protected] or visit the ACA website at Y’s Youth and Family Services pro - or participation in another workout charitable services for every commu - www.counseling.org. gram for existing clients; and experience. nity. #StayWithUs

Rabid Cat Alert in Prince George’s County An American Stranded in Europe by One person scratched by the stray cat is being treated; Health Department seeks public’s help identifying other people who may have been exposed the Pandemic: A Personal Story Trump had placed a ban on all travel with Eu - “Rabies is often a life-threatening disease; how - By CHARLOTTE PARKER DULANY By GEORGE LETTIS rope for the next 30 days, the woman at the desk ever, it is highly preventable by beginning post- Capital News Service Prince George’s County Health Department for Norwegian Airlines at JFK reminded me. “If exposure treatment immediately following expo - AMSTERDAM (April 3, 2020)—I walked hand you go, there’s no guarantee when you will be LARGO, Md. (April 11, 2020)—The Prince sure. Treatment is determined by the type of animal in hand with my boyfriend along the Looiersgracht able to return,” she said with a concerned look. George’s County Health Department is alerting contact and patient assessment,” said Dr. Ernest Canal to the soft tune of a piano, which had floated Out of 246 seats, only 112 passengers had community members about a recent rabies expo - Carter, Prince George’s County Health Officer. sleepily out of a nearby third floor window for checked in for my 1:05 a.m. flight. Most were sure in Riverdale Park, MD. On or around April “Rabies is transmitted through the saliva of an in - only us to hear, and as we gazed around Amster - Dutch citizens returning home. The Norwegian 3, 2020, a stray cat scratched an individual near fected animal and is easily transmissible through dam, only our memory brought forth the people agent said kindly, “It’s your choice.” the 5800 block of 67th Ave in Riverdale Park. The a bite of an infected animal. The best method to and colorful life that usually flourish here—re - I was torn about what to do as I sat with my stray cat is described as an orange tabby, domestic eliminate the risk of rabies exposure is to avoid placed now by locked doors and vacant streets. mother in the airport parking lot watching our car’s short hair. The Maryland Department of Health contact with unfamiliar animals. We encourage Two weeks earlier, I wouldn’t have thought I digital clock rise in numbers. Cutting through si - (MDH) confirmed that the cat tested positive for community members to report any unusual or er - would be here. lence she surprised me when she said, “If it were rabies on April 8. The individual exposed to the ratic animal behavior they notice and to avoid han - Knocks on the door, buzzing cell phones and me, I would go.” rabid cat has begun rabies post-exposure prophy - dling and feeding any unknown animals in their the ringing of our longstanding landline telephone My trip had been planned for two months— to laxis. As a precaution, additional stray cats found community.” all erupted at once in my family’s fifth floor apart - stay for 10 days in Amsterdam and Bussum, a in the area will also be taken in for testing. When a person is bitten or exposed to the saliva ment in the East Village of Manhattan, urgently small town nearby the capital city, with my Due to the risk of rabies exposure, the Health of a rabid animal, the disease is prevented by ad - compelling us to turn on the news. President Don - boyfriend. I was at a gridlock, wondering when I Department seeks the public’s help in identifying ministering four doses of rabies vaccine over a ald Trump was announcing his travel ban on Eu - would next be able to go if I didn’t go then. With any persons who may have had contact with the 14-day period, and a dose of rabies immunoglob - rope in an attempt to halt the persistent spread of 20 minutes left to get to my gate, I decided to take confirmed rabid cat or additional stray cats in that ulin given at the beginning of treatment. Each year, the coronavirus. the leap. area. If you know of any persons or animals that approximately 900 Marylanders receive preventive On that night of March 11, Trump declared in The rest moved swiftly and I was soon on the may have had contact with the above cat between treatment after exposure to a rabid or potentially a brief Oval Office address that all travel between plane, wiping down my seat and tray table with March 22 and April 3, please contact the Health rabid animal. the United States and Europe would be suspended disinfectant wipes. In seat 8D, I could see only Department immediately at 301-583-3750. for 30 days and would go into effect in 48 hours. four fellow passengers and they were all engaged I stood statically before the television as head - in similar cleaning practices. Looking around, I CItY OF HYAttSVILLE NOtICE OF A PROPOSED lines in capital letters appeared, my yellow carry- swayed between exhilaration and worry as I REAL PROPERtY tAX INCREASE on bag gripped tightly in my right hand in prepa - thought about how many would’ve opted to stay The City Council of the City of Hyattsville, Maryland proposes to increase real prop - ration to leave for John F. Kennedy International home. erty taxes. Airport to catch my flight to Amsterdam in three Only when the plane was rolling down the 1. For the tax year beginning July 1, 2020, the estimated real property assessable base hours. runway was a correction issued that American Against her view that fate brought this moment, citizens were able to return after undergoing will increase by 1.52%, from $2,149,317,196 to $2,181,979,574. my mother drove me to the airport with her eyes proper screenings. 2. If the City of Hyattsville maintains the current tax rate of $0.63 per $100 of assess - glued to the city streets over the wheel as we drove ment, real property tax revenues will increase by 1.52% resulting in $205,773 of new up 1st Avenue, ignoring each ding of the many in - real property tax revenues. coming notifications from her cellphone. In the See StRANDED Page A4 3. In order to fully offset the effect of increasing assessments, the real property tax rate Queens-Midtown Tunnel should be reduced to $0.6206, the constant yield tax rate. she asked me, “God forbid, what if something hap - 4. The City is considering not reducing its real property tax rate enough to fully offset pened and I couldn’t get to increasing assessments. The City proposes to adopt a real property tax rate of $0.63 you?” per $100 of assessment. This tax rate is 1.52% higher than the constant yield tax rate “Or, what if something and will generate $205,773 in additional property tax revenues. happened to us?” she con - A public hearing on the proposed real property tax rate increase will be held at 7:30 tinued, speaking of our p.m., on May 4, 2020. The meeting will be held remotely via video teleconference. family. “Would you be okay with not being able To join the video conference: https://zoom.us/j/843087355. To join with audio only: to come back to us?” +1 301 715 8592 US, Meeting ID: 843 087 355 The virus had spread in The hearing is open to the public, and public testimony is encouraged. Participants who a whirlwind across various join the video/audio conference will be enabled to speak by the meeting chair. Speakers countries and into the will be allowed to address the Council for two (2) minutes. Public Comment may also be United States over recent made using the e-comment feature at hyattsville.org/meetings or emailing weeks with many disrup - tions; days earlier, the [email protected]. All electronic comments must be submitted by 6 PM on May school I attend, the Univer - 4, 2020. Comments received will be read by City staff during the public comment portion sity of Maryland, an - PHOTO CREDIT CHARLOTTE PARKER DULANY/CAPITAL NEWS SERVICE of the meeting. nounced its closure until AMStERDAM—As the coronavirus pandemic unfolded on both Persons with questions regarding this hearing may call 301-985-5009 for further in - April 10. It later extended sides of the Atlantic last month, a Norwegian Airlines flight from formation. the closure for the remain - New York to Amsterdam carried far fewer than the usual number der of the spring semester. of passengers. A4 — April 16 — April 22, 2020 — The Prince George’s Post COMMUNITY Comcast Makes More than two Dozen More Entertainment Stranded from A 3 Upon my arrival in Amster - “We do not know how long Networks and Subscription Video Services Available for Free dam, I met the same surprise at the commercial flights in your AFRO, Aspire TV, Brown Sugar, Cinelatino, Kanal D Drama, Kocowa, RCN Novelas, REVOLT, TV One and my decision to travel after the ban; countries may continue to oper - ViendoMovies Are Among Additional Choices Xfinity Customers Can Access At No Extra Cost a TSA agent at the Schiphol Air - ate,” Pompeo said. “We can’t port ran my bag through a second guarantee the U.S. government’s • African American Networks and Subscrip - video platforms, including in specially cu - By SANDRA ARNETTE security scanner as suspicion ac - ability to arrange charter flights tion Video Services: AFRO, Aspire TV, rated destinations for Black Film and TV, Comcast companied my seemingly reckless indefinitely where commercial Black News Channel, Brown Sugar, Im - Latino, Asian American Film and TV and decision. options no longer exist.” PHILADELPHIA (April 7, 2020)— Com - pact Network, kweliTV, REVOLT, The International. The regulations for COVID- Now, two weeks overdue in cast today announced it is making on de - Africa Channel and TV One. The above programming partners join a 19 came on my fourth day here, my time here, it is unclear when I mand programming from more than two • Latino Networks and Subscription Video broad range of other premium networks and as I sat with friends before the tel - will return home. dozen more entertainment networks and Services: CBeebies, Cinelatino, Cine subscription video services making on de - evision to listen to in on remarks So I’ve chosen to stay and re - subscription video services available for its Sony, Cinema Dinamita MX, Kanal D mand programming available free for Xfin - from Dutch Prime Minister Mark turn to normalcy here—I will live Xfinity X1 and Flex customers to enjoy for Drama, Kids Central en español, Pantaya, ity TV and Internet customers. Beyond free Rutte. I waited through gasps, in Amsterdam until the spread of free in the coming weeks. RCN Novelas, Universo, ViendoMovies entertainment, Comcast has undertaken a groans and some cheers before it COVID-19 has slowed and the “All year round, we provide our cus - and Vme Kids. comprehensive COVID-19 response inclu - was translated to me that all cafes, U.S. border reopens. I am in a tomers with a wide variety of diverse and • International Networks and Subscription sive of opening Xfinity WiFi hotspots lo - shops and schools in the Nether - good place—safe and healthy— in-language programming and we’re happy Video Services: Filipino On Demand, cated in business and outdoor locations lands would be closed through and will abide by national regu - to work with our partners to make a selec - GMA Pinoy, Hi-YAH!, KOCOWA (all across the country to anyone who needs April 6. lations as my peers do in this new tion available for free,” said Rebecca Heap, programs subtitled in English) and them for free (including non-Xfinity Inter - The Netherlands had earlier environment. Senior Vice President, Video & Entertain - TV5MONDE. net subscribers), pausing data plans, creat - been reproached throughout the When I venture around, I ment, Comcast Cable. Comcast currently offers its customers ing a COVID-19 news destination and a K- European Union for not yet hold - don’t see many people outside, Xfinity customers with X1 and Flex can access to 160 independent networks, 100 12 education destination on X1 and Flex, ing crisis talks to address new and the ones I have come into simply say “Free” into their Xfinity Voice of which are targeted to diverse audiences. and making its Internet Essentials program health measures. School doors contact with are in groups of no remote to explore the range of on demand Additionally, its customers have access to free for new families for the first 60 days were already closed in most West - more than three people, with a programming currently available at no ad - 20,000 hours of diverse on demand and on - of enrollment. ern European countries the week distance of five feet between ditional cost, including: line programming accessible across Xfinity of March 8. them. Social distancing has been The Dutch Ministry expressed strongly encouraged and from concern about how “public life what I have seen is widely re - B&O Railroad Museum Announces Commercial Railroad’s will come to a standstill.” spected by Dutch citizens. Students globally have been There is a limit of people al - Founding Fathers Virtual Exhibit and New Educational Resources making do with the adjusted cir - lowed inside certain shops at By DANA GOLDSTEIN cumstances through online learn - once; outside the Albert Heijn, B&O Railroad Museum ing programs connected to serv - a popular grocery chain, there is ices like Zoom, through which often an organized line of patient BALTIMORE , Md. (April 9, 2020)—The they are able to watch and hear people waiting to purchase B&O Railroad Museum announces new vir - lessons and connect with profes - groceries. tual experiences and resources you can en - sors. Everyone I know here who It is a rare occurrence to see joy from home! Specifically, The B&O is still enrolled in an education people wearing masks, latex Lives On: How the Founders Shaped Our program is participating in these gloves or goggles, but the reac - Lives Today is a new virtual exhibit which virtual classrooms to further their tionary panic that has been circling launched Saturday, April 11, 2020 at BO - studies until the schools reopen. the globe exists here, too, though LivesOn.org; B&O Train Talk, daily social In a recent directive, the it is subtle. One day, a cashier at media posts about the B&O’s extensive col - Dutch government decided the grocery store didn’t like that I lection, and Junior Junction Story Times schools and businesses will stay paid for a bottle of orange juice for families and educators. closed until April 28, and all na - with coins and carefully sorted The B&O Lives On: How the Founders tional exams for the academic them with one gloved finger. Shaped Our Lives Today virtual exhibit cen - year were cancelled. With announcements made ters around the 1891 Francis Blackwell PHOTO COURTESY B&O RAILROAD MUSEUM “There is a very real chance regularly by the Dutch govern - Mayer painting, Founders of the Baltimore B&O Railroad Museum Education Director, Rebecca Funk, hosts Virtual Story that we will have to extend the ment every three days, the Nether - and Ohio Railroad. Mayer was commis - time. measures past April 28,” Rutte lands seems to have been well sioned to depict the original group of Bal - said at a press conference to ad - prepared to manage a seemingly timore businessmen, as well as many of the To learn more and to take a tour today, Easter Engines, and more. Activities for dress the crisis. “We don’t want unmanageable crisis. other major leaders and innovators from visit BOLivesOn.org from the B&O Railroad middle school age students are offered be - people to travel all over the coun - As of April 2, the Netherlands the first half-century of the B&O’s history. Museum Collection, and see the many sites ginning with the B&O Lives On exhibit try, and after April 28 we certainly has reported 1,339 virus-induced While a handful of the wealthiest men in in town influenced by the B&O Railroad! and available on the Junior Junction and won’t be back the way we were.” deaths. Approximately 14,697 America meeting for drinks over 200 years Learning Opportunities exhibit pages. The story time videos and On March 17, six days from people have tested positive for ago may not seem relevant today, this very As part of the B&O’s dedication to offer activities are available for free at my expected return to New COVID-19. gathering of entrepreneurs and venture cap - valuable learning opportunities within the BORail-Education.org. York, I was alerted that my flight The U.S. State Department italists from Baltimore, decided to invest community, the education team recently As part of the international Museum from with Norwegian Airlines was announced its most severe warn - in a recent British technological innovation launched Junior Junction Story Time and Home initiative, B&O Railroad Museum is cancelled. ing in a time of progressively in - and build America’s first commercial rail - Activities, an online resource to serve chil - sharing collection and archive images plus With instructions not to contact creasing restrictions on March 19 road. Not only did the investment deliver dren, caregivers, and teachers impacted by restoration videos daily on Facebook, Insta - the airline unless flying before when it issued a Level 4 travel prosperity to Baltimore and Maryland, it school closures. Every Tuesday and Thurs - gram and Twitter with #BOTrainTalk and April 15 was absolutely necessary, advisory, urging Americans to transformed public transportation, com - day at 11 a.m., while schools and day-care #MuseumFromHome. Whether you’re a rail - there were no answers as to when not travel internationally and for merce and communications. The original centers are closed, a new railroad-themed road fan, history buff, or searching for new I would be able to reschedule. All citizens abroad to return home Founders of the Baltimore and Ohio Rail - virtual story time with a corresponding ac - ways to engage the family, please join our flights to New York with Norwe - immediately. road painting, donated by CSX in 2019, tivity is posted, all activities are download - virtual audience. Take a personality quiz and gian through April have been When people hear I am in the will be on display at the B&O Railroad Mu - able for printing at home. Stories include find out which locomotive from our collec - eliminated and read as “sold out” Netherlands they are in disbelief, seum after reopening to the public. Rosie Revere Engineer, The Garbage Barge, tion best matches your personality on the carrier’s website. usually with a trace of pity at my http://ow.ly/8kym50z2rgi Many airlines have halted op - current situation, stranded in “I am exceedingly proud of our staff for eration of long haul flights, and limbo. They tell me it is “wrench - the creativity they have shown and strong the window to return home has ing to hear about (my) plight” and desire to push programming out via social been gradually shrinking. From hope I can get home soon. But I media channels for the purpose of easing over 50 countries, more than am settled and happy, and curious stress for people quarantined around the 26,000 U.S. citizens have been re - to learn what lies ahead for my world” said Kris Hoellen, Executive Di - turned home with a repatriation unexpected life abroad. rector of the B&O Railroad Museum. “We task force dedicated to bringing (Charlotte Parker Dulany is a know culture continues to be important to all Americans back, according to reporter in the Washington bureau quality of life even during a pandemic. Our Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. of Capital News Service.) PHOTO COURTESY B&O RAILROAD MUSEUM social media engagement has increased by Founders of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, 1891 by Francis Blackwell Mayer. 48% and if we brighten even one person’s Oil on canvas. B&O Railroad Museum Collection. Gift of the CSX Corporation. day, we will be doing our part.” The Prince George’s Post The Prince George’s Post P.O. Box 1001 15207 Marlboro Pike Maryland Secretary of State, Attorney General Upper Marlboro, MD 20772-3151 Phone: 301-627-0900 • Legal Fax: 301-627-6260 Warn of Possible Charity Scams Related to COVID-19 Email: [email protected] Contents © 2020, The Prince George’s Post By MICHAEL SCHLEIN warns Secretary Wobensmith. “Be sure you before donating, and avoid any charity or Maryland Governor’s Press Office know who you are giving to, and remember fundraiser that is reluctant to give informa - Publisher/Senior Editor Editor it is always best to give directly to well-es - tion on how donations are used.” Legusta Floyd Lisa Duan ANNAPOLIS, Md. (April 9, 2020)—The tablished, reputable charitable organiza - For more tips on how to give wisely, Federal Trade Commission has reported tions.” Marylanders can visit the Maryland Attor - General Manager/ Administrative Assistant/ Legal Advertising Manager Billing that scammers are taking advantage of fears The Office of the Secretary of State reg - ney General’s Office, Consumer Protection Brenda Boice Julie Volosin surrounding the coronavirus, including isters and regulates charitable organizations Division publication Consumer’s Edge through the sale of counterfeit products and that solicit charitable contributions in Mary - Charitable Giving Tips. Legal Advertising Assistant Web Manager the solicitation of money and personal in - land. Together with the Attorney General’s The Office of the Secretary of State Robin Boerckel Kyler Quesenberry formation. When charities request donations Office, the Secretary of State’s Office works maintains a public registry of charitable or - in response to the coronavirus, Marylanders to ensure that charitable contributions go ganizations authorized to solicit in Mary - Prince George’s County, Md. Member National Newspaper Publishers Association, may feel duty-bound to donate in an effort to qualified charitable organizations and are land. For more information and to search and the Maryland, Delaware, District of Columbia Press Association. to help their neighbors. Maryland’s Secre - used for their intended purpose. the registry, please visit the Secretary of The Prince George’s Post (ISSN 10532226) is published every Thursday by the New Prince George’s Post Inc., 15207 Marlboro Pike, tary of State John C. Wobensmith and “Fraudsters will take advantage of nearly State’s charities database. Upper Marlboro, Md. 20772-3151. Maryland Attorney General Brian E. Frosh any opportunity to steal other people’s If you think that you have been a victim Subscription rate: 25 cents per single copy; $15 per year; are cautioning Marylanders to be vigilant money,” said Attorney General Frosh. of a deceptive or illegal charitable solicita - $7.50 senior citizens and students; out of county add $1; out of state add $2. and to donate wisely. “Consumers can avoid being cheated by tion, contact the Charities and Legal Serv - Periodical postage paid at Southern Md. 20790. “During uncertain times, con artists prey understanding how thieves are trying to ices Division of the Secretary of State’s Of - Postmaster, send address changes to Prince George’s Post, P.O. Box 1001, on your generosity and create scams, frauds steal their personal information and money. fice: 410-974-5521 or 1-800-825-4510. Upper Marlboro, Md. 20772-3151. or deceptive acts to line their own pockets,” It is always wise to research the charity first April 16 — April 22, 2020 — The Prince George’s Post — A 5 BUSINESS AND FINANCE Social Security Matters SBA Clarifies Eligibility of Faith-Based Organizations Ask Rusty : to Participate in Paycheck Protection and Retiring from Work; Economic Injury Disaster Loan Programs By JACK SPIRAKES, MPA ensure that small businesses and non- vided at least 75% of loan proceeds are When Should I Claim U.S. Small Business Administra tion profits alike have access to critical used for payroll costs. funds to keep their workers paid and The Economic Injury Disaster Loan Social Security? WASHINGTON (April 4, 2020)— employed,” said Carranza. “Faith-based program provides qualifying small SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza to - organizations have always provided businesses and non-profits with work - By RUSSELL GLOOR, day announced that SBA issued guid - critical social services for people in ing capital up to $2 million with low AMAC Certified Social Security Advisor ance clarifying that all faith-based or - need, and SBA will make clear that interest rates and terms extending up Association of Mature American Citizens ganizations impacted by Coronavirus these organizations may access this to 30 years. (COVID-19) are eligible to participate emergency capital.” “While every American is being af - Dear Rusty: in the Paycheck Protection Program The Paycheck Protection Program fected by COVID-19, the impact of this I turned 63 August 12, 2019. I will be retiring June 30, 2020 from my cur - and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan is designed to keep small business pandemic is particularly hurting our rent job. I will have made approximately $35,000 by then and am receiving program, without restrictions based on workers employed and provide small schools and places of worship, and dis - severance pay of $19,000 on June 30. Will the pay I receive through June 30 their religious identity or activities, to businesses with capital through the na - proportionately impacting the under - affect what I can draw from Social Security? Also, how much of a difference the extent they meet the eligibility cri - tion’s banks and other lending institu - represented communities, the sick, the would it be if I wait until August 12, 2020 to officially start drawing Social teria outlined in the CARES Act that tions, with support from the SBA. The elderly and the lower income,” added Security? Is there any other information I should be aware of before I start was passed by Congress, signed into Paycheck Protection Program’s maxi - Carranza. “It’s vitally important that drawing Social Security? Signed: Anxious to Retire law by President Trump, and imple - mum loan amount is $10 million with organizations focused on delivering mented by the Paycheck Protection Act a fixed 1% interest rate and maturity critical social services and meeting Dear Anxious: First, let me assure you that the money you earned this year Interim Final Rule. of two years. SBA will forgive the por - community needs remain viable, par - before your benefits start aren’t counted as part of Social Security’s “earnings “Following the passage of the emer - tion of loan proceeds used for payroll ticularly during this economically chal - test” which could affect your payment after your benefits start. When you gency economic relief assistance, the costs and other designated operating lenging time.” claim, your Social Security benefit amount will depend upon two things – Administration and Congress acted to expenses for up to eight weeks pro - your “primary insurance amount” (or “PIA”) which is determined from your highest earning 35 years (adjusted for inflation) over your lifetime, and the age at which you claim your SS benefit. By claiming at age 64 in August, PERSONAL FINANCE your benefit will be cut by about 15.6% from what it would be if you wait to claim at your full retirement age (66 plus 4 months). Your earnings for 2020 won’t be applied to your SS record until after you file your 2020 taxes in Protecting Your Financial Health in 2021, so won’t affect your benefits (if appropriate) until after that. If your 2020 earnings are more than any of those in the 35 years used to initially these Uncertain times compute your benefit, your benefit will increase at that time. The day of the (StatePoint) With expected delays in bill payments, month you were born isn’t significant, only the month. So, if you apply to unprecedented layoffs, hiring freezes and related start benefits in August of 2020, your benefit cut will be as stated above be - hardships, many Americans are facing new financial cause you’re claiming exactly 2 years and 4 months early. But if you wait challenges. longer you’ll gain another 5/9ths of 1% (.556%) for each additional month “COVID-19 has impacted all industries and in - you delay up until your full retirement age (FRA). dividuals from all walks of life,” says Rod Griffin, Although you plan to retire from work, be aware that if you decide to senior director of Consumer Education and Advo - return you’ll be subject to Social Security’s earnings limit once you are col - cacy for Experian. “With all of these rapid changes, lecting benefits before your FRA, and that will be the case until you reach you might not be thinking about how your credit re - your full retirement age. If you go back to work after you start your SS and port may be impacted yet, but you likely will soon.” earn more than $1,520 in any remaining month of 2020, you’ll not be entitled As you adapt to life in this unprecedented time, to benefits for that month. Starting in 2021, you’ll be subject to an annual the experts at Experian are sharing strategies and earnings limit of at least $18,240 (that’s the 2020 limit—limits for future resources for protecting your financial health and years aren’t yet known but will be higher). Exceeding the annual limit will credit history. cause SS to withhold half of anything you earn over the limit. The limit is • Check your credit report. While checking your more, and the penalty is less in the year you reach your FRA and goes away credit report regularly is always a good idea, this is once you have reached your full retirement age. especially true now. You can get a free copy of your PHOTO CREDIT: © FIZKES / ISTOCK VIA GETTY IMAGES PLUS Finally, to be sure you’re aware, you can actually defer claiming SS until report from Experian every 30 days with a free ac - making rash decisions when it comes to credit and your fi - age 70 if you wish. After you reach your full retirement age you’ll earn count. In addition, you can get a free credit report from each nancial health. delayed retirement credits (DRCs) of 8% per year of delay, which are added of the three national credit reporting agencies annually by • Check out resources. Use new educational resources to your benefit when you finally claim it. That would give you a benefit visiting annualcreditreport.com. that can help you protect your financial health in these un - which is 29% more at age 70 than it would be at your full retirement age. • Maintain your score. Making credit payments on time certain times. For example, Experian is hosting a series of and in-full and keeping your utilization rate (balance-to- #CreditChat conversations surrounding COVID-19 on The 2.1 million member Association of Mature American Citizens [AMAC] limit ratio) as low as possible are the best ways to maintain Wednesdays at 3 p.m. ET on Twitter. The program covers www.amac.us is a vibrant, vital senior advocacy organization that takes its your credit score. At a maximum, you should try to keep important personal finance topics. The next several #Cred - marching orders from its members. AMAC Action is a non-profit, non-partisan your credit card balances below 30 percent in total and for itChats will be dedicated to items like methods and strategies organization representing the membership in our nation’s capital and in local each individual card. For many reasons, maintaining these for bill repayment, paying down debt, emergency financial Congressional Districts throughout the country. And the AMAC Foundation habits might not be possible right now. However, paying assistance and preparing for retirement during COVID-19. (www.AmacFoundation.org) is the Association’s non-profit organization, dedi - your minimum monthly payments and anything additional You can also visit Experian’s blog post, “COVID-19 and cated to supporting and educating America’s Seniors. Together, we act and you can afford will go a long way. Your Credit Report,” for updated information pertaining to speak on the Association members’ behalf, protecting their interests and offering • talk to your lenders. Keep in mind, lenders don’t want how COVID-19 may impact your creditworthiness. Addi - a practical insight on how to best solve the problems they face today. Live long you to fall behind on your payments any more than you do. tionally, the “Ask Experian” blog shares immediate and and make a difference by joining us today at www.amac.us/join-amac. If you’re facing trouble making monthly payments, contact evolving resources on its COVID-19 Updates page. To obtain This article is intended for information purposes only and does not represent legal or fi - your lender or creditor. They may have options for helping a free Experian credit report and other free services, enroll nancial guidance. It presents the opinions and interpretations of the AMAC Foundation’s you cope with COVID-19-related financial hardships. For at Experian.com. staff, trained and accredited by the National Social Security Association (NSSA). NSSA example, lenders can place your accounts in forbearance or While staying safe and healthy should be everyone’s and the AMAC Foundation and its staff are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Social deferment for a period of time. number one priority, it is also important to protect your fi - Security Administration or any other governmental entity. To submit a question, visit our website (amacfoundation.org/programs/social-security-advisory) or email us at • Use credit as a financial tool. While debt is a problem, nancial health at the same time. Be sure to leverage all the [email protected]. credit can be a financial tool that can help improve your resources available to you that can help you emerge from overall financial health in the long run. As always, avoid this crisis in good financial standing.

Social Security Matters Ask Rusty : results in many people, especially those with a smaller SS benefit amount, pay - The 2.1 million member Association of Why Are our Medicare Premiums Different? ing a different (smaller than base) Mature American Citizens [AMAC] Medicare premium amount. www.amac.us is a vibrant, vital senior By RUSSELL GLOOR, AMAC Certified Social Security Advisor , Association of Mature American Citizens Here’s an example: If your hus - advocacy organization that takes its band’s SS benefit is $1200/month, he marching orders from its members. Dear Rusty: (than standard) Medicare premium. stays the same and your Medicare pre - got a $19.20 COLA increase for 2020 AMAC Action is a non-profit, non-parti - What is the Medicare monthly pay - The rest of us pay the base $144.60 mium amount becomes whatever level (1.6%). The Medicare premium for san organization representing the mem - ment based on? I pay $139.60, my hus - amount, unless the “hold harmless” your COLA increase brings it to (up to 2020 went up by $9.10, which was bership in our nation’s capital and in local band pays $144.60, a friend pays provision is in play. the base premium for that year). That taken from his COLA increase. The Congressional Districts throughout the $136.60. I receive $388 per month in The “hold harmless” provision is a means that your Medicare premium remaining $10.10 of his COLA in - country. And the AMAC Foundation Social Security, my husband receives law passed by Congress to prevent So - could be lower than the standard crease was added to his SS benefit (www.AmacFoundation.org) is the Asso - $1200, and my friend receives $1000 cial Security benefit payments from de - Medicare Part B premium for the year. amount. ciation’s non-profit organization, dedi - per month. There seems to be no rhyme creasing as a result of an increase in Since the dollar value of a COLA If your benefit is $388 your COLA cated to supporting and educating Amer - or reason for the amount we pay. the Medicare premium (most Medicare increase varies according to the size of increase was $6.20 (1.6%). That $6.20 ica’s Seniors. Together, we act and speak Signed: Curious to Know premiums are deducted from Social Se - your Social Security benefit, those with COLA wasn’t enough to cover the on the Association members’ behalf, pro - curity benefit payments). The disparity a higher benefit may receive a COLA $9.10 Medicare premium increase, but tecting their interests and offering a prac - Dear Curious: It may not seem so, but in premiums you refer to results from increase which more than covers the it was applied to your previous tical insight on how to best solve the prob - lems they face today. Live long and make there is actually “rhyme or reason” to the hold harmless provision, which also Medicare premium increase and the re - Medicare premium amount to bring a difference by joining us today at the amount of everyone’s Medicare permits all or part of a Social Security mainder is given as additional SS ben - you to a Medicare premium of $139.60. www.amac.us/join-amac. premium. I’ll try to explain. cost of living adjustment (COLA) to efit. But those with a lower SS benefit Your net SS payment stayed the same Each year Medicare determines a be applied to your Medicare premium will get a smaller COLA, which may because your current SS benefit cannot This article is intended for information pur - standard premium amount for Part B— increase, instead of going to you. not be enough to cover the increase in be used to pay for the rest of the pre - poses only and does not represent legal or fi - nancial guidance. It presents the opinions and coverage for doctors and other outpa - Here’s what can happen: the Medicare premium. In that event, mium increase. But $5 of any COLA interpretations of the AMAC Foundation’s tient services. For 2020, the standard If the Medicare premium goes up the Social Security benefit stays the increase you get next year will go to - staff, trained and accredited by the National premium is $144.60; last year it was in any year, some (or all) of your an - same and the COLA is used to bring ward bringing you up to the base Social Security Association (NSSA). NSSA and $135.50. Higher earners may even pay nual Social Security COLA increase the Medicare premium up to, or closer Medicare premium amount. While this the AMAC Foundation and its staff are not more, as a supplemental amount is can be used to pay for your monthly to, the base premium amount. If the may not fit your idea of “rhyme or rea - affiliated with or endorsed by the Social Se - curity Administration or any other govern - added to the base Part B premium if Medicare premium increase. But, if the COLA doesn’t cover the entire son” it is, nevertheless, based upon a mental entity. To submit a question, visit our someone’s income exceeds certain high COLA increase to your SS benefit isn’t Medicare premium increase, the pre - well-intentioned “hold harmless” rule website (amacfoundation.org/programs/so - clip levels set by Medicare. In short, big enough to cover the entire Medicare mium stays at a lower-than-base num - which protects your Social Security cial-security-advisory) or email us at ssadvi - those with high income pay a higher premium increase, your net SS benefit ber. And this recurs every year, which benefit from decreasing. [email protected]. A6 — April 16 — April 22, 2020 — The Prince George’s Post COMMENTARY

Marion Wright Edelman Anthony Brown President Emerita, Maryland Congressional District 4 Children’s Defense Fund

ChildWatch : Congressman Anthony Brown: A Season for Renewal and Hope “We must confront systemic racial disparities The Passover and Easter holidays are tradition - This is not a time of easy or glib faith, but ally times of joyous sacred celebration, with family rather a time to lean on our faith in all of its com - head on, and do so right now” and community rituals centered on the promises plexity and questions. In this season, we look WASHINGTON (April 9, likely to be uninsured and more “The virus is not a great lev - of exodus, deliverance, new hope, and rebirth. back to the formative experiences in our histories 2020)—Congressman Anthony likely to have a frontline job dur - eler. The consequences are not These promises are desperately needed right now. as people of faith—histories of God’s people en - G. Brown (MD-04), released the ing this crisis. Black Americans borne equally by all. We know The beloved Nobel Peace Prize laureate South during suffering and struggle, oppression and in - following statement in reaction have a higher risk of asthma, communities of color are more African Archbishop Desmond Tutu said about justice, fear and doubt. In these celebrations, we to new demographic data from heart disease, diabetes and hy - likely to catch this disease, be - Easter: “In the middle of our faith is the death and may experience new meaning for this present mo - Maryland showing COVID-19’s pertension. And Black Ameri - cause of their exposure and in - resurrection. Nothing could have been more hope - ment. And in this time, may we look ahead with disproportionate impact on com - cans face implicit racial bias in action to address these deep less than Good Friday—but then Easter happened, faith and hope to ways that we can reach out espe - munities of color: our health care system—from di - health inequities. Marginalized and forever we have to become prisoners of hope.” cially to children and families who are struggling, “Black Americans are bearing agnosis to treatment and medical and vulnerable populations need The American World Jewish Service says this in a and help make sure that we will not return to the the full brunt of the coronavirus outcomes. We’ve seen decades- more testing and doctors in these supplement to their Global Justice Haggadah for old “normal” but instead will usher in God’s future in Maryland, facing higher rates old disparities inflamed by the communities need more re - Passover, “Hope Amidst the Tears”: of peace, love, freedom, and justice these holy oc - of infections and mortality. We coronavirus crisis. Lack of ac - sources. We need to act now to “In the telling of the Passover story, we re - casions celebrate and anticipate. cannot hide from this grim real - cess to health care, affordable ensure these disparities don’t be - count the oppression that our ancestors experi - In this season of renewal I offer prayers for ity. We must confront these sys - housing and financial stability come worse during this public enced when we were slaves in Egypt. We dip a new hope and strength. temic racial disparities head on, have left low income, Black and health crisis, and work to close growing vegetable—karpas—into saltwater, to *** and do so right now.” Brown families vulnerable to these gaps moving forward.” taste their tears of grief mingled with our hopes God, guide our faith that by it we might make “Black Americans are more this deadly disease.” for life, health and renewal for a more just world. our children and nation whole again. “This year, the tears are ours. God, help us to believe with every ounce of “They are the tears of the sick and their loved our being that we, with Your help, can save our ones who worry or mourn. They are the tears of children and make them well. those who have lost their jobs, are uninsured, God, renew our spirits—Your spirit within live in isolation, or must go to work each day to us—and make us worthy carriers of Your mes - provide essential services to others. They’re the sage of love and hope and life in all we say and Marc Morial tears of courageous health care workers who save do this day and forever more. lives and risk their own. *** President and CEO, National Urban League “We must acknowledge this pain and suffering We thank You God for Your grace of life. and allow ourselves the space to grieve. Yet, as We thank You for Your breath of life. the karpas ritual beckons, we must also look to - We thank You for Your hope in life. to Be Equal : ward the future with a sense of hope and possi - We thank You for Your challenges in life. bility. Passover arrives on the precipice of spring, We thank You for Your companionship in life the World of Black-Owned Businesses and when new growth is just around the corner. All through family and friends and fellow sojourners over the world, resilience, strength, compassion in the faith. Entrepreneurs Has Lost Its Greatest Champion and innovation will grow from under this tragedy. *** “We honor the tears, but we also bless the God, thank You so much for giving us a new With the Passing of Black Enterprise Founder hope.” beginning each day and each minute. In this holy season of Passover and Easter Help us to grow in grace and faith and hope Earl G. Graves, Sr. like no other, we are shaken out of comfortable and shine Your light everywhere we go today. “I feel that a large part of my Graves’ devotion to his three senator’s assassination in 1968. routines and customary celebrations—physically *** role as publisher of Black Enter - sons, Earl Jr., John and Michael, He started Black Enterprise separated from loved ones and communities of Passover prise is to be a catalyst for Black was a large part of the inspiration with a $250,000 loan, and turned faith, hearts heavy with the suffering of those Dear God, economic development in this for the National Urban League’s a profit in a remarkable 10 near and far, struggling in the present and anxious Let us never forget what it means to be free. country. When I can act as an in - Male Responsibility Campaign. months. about the future. For children and families who Let us never forget what it requires to be free. strument to make it happen for The initiative, launched in 1985 “Black Enterprise was just a have long endured poverty, lack of health care, Let us fight for freedom for ourselves and others legitimate and reasonable peo - by then-president John Jacob, modest magazine when I founded domestic violence, hunger, homelessness, unem - So that all God’s children may be free. ple, I do it. I try to be helpful and was designed to educate young I,” he said. “Just me, a few brave ployment, incarceration, and marginalization, the *** put people together, whether it’s men about the importance of a advertisers like Pepsi, ExxonMo - weight of this pandemic is especially heavy. Easter finding a candidate for a trustee father in a child’s life. bil and General Motors; and a For all of us, but especially for those who are Let us never forget that You love us so much position at Howard University or The following year, Jacob and small but spirited staff. And one suffering most, this year may we live into the that You gave Your only son so that we might reaching out to the CEO of Mo - Graves teamed up to persuade a other person who did just about meaning and messages of both Passover and learn that we are loved and forgiven. town Records to save a company national hotel chain, the frequent everything there is to do to put Easter. God’s intention is for people to move out Thank You, God, for Your ungraspable love so that was at the forefront of black host of Black-themed conven - out a magazine—my wife, Bar - of oppression and injustice into the promise of freely given. economic development in the tions and meetings, to expand its bara.” freedom and justice. Death-dealing empire does —April 9, 2020 early days.” advertising into Black-owned Over the years, Graves served not have the last word. —Earl G. Graves, Sr. media. on the boards of some of the na - Born in 1935 to West Indies tion’s most influential corpora - As the nation’s preeminent immigrants, Graves was seized tions, including American Air - Maryland Delegation Members Press President trump civil rights organization dedicated by the entrepreneurial spirit early lines, Daimler Chrysler, and to the economic empowerment of in his life, selling Christmas cards Federated Department Stores. to Waive FEMA Cost-Sharing Requirements Black people, the National Urban door-to-door in his Brooklyn His endorsement of Barack to Help States Handle COVID-19 Outbreak League shares a mission with neighborhood at the tender age Obama in the pages of the maga - Black Enterprise magazine and of 6. His father’s struggle to zine was considered pivotal in WASHINGTON (April 10, 2020)—Congressman sponding, containing, and mitigating the outbreak its late founder and publisher, Earl move beyond blue-collar em - Obama’s victory. Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), along with Senators Ben of COVID-19,” the lawmakers wrote. “States G. Graves, Sr. ployment, despite a high school Graves demonstrated an al - Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressmen should not be forced to worry about rising costs Founded in 1970, Black En - diploma, was a motivating force most perfect combination of in - Dutch Ruppersberger, John P. Sarbanes, Anthony and budgetary limits that could hamper their efforts terprise has helped to launch and as he pursued a college educa - telligence, ambition, tenacity and G. Brown, Jamie B. Raskin, and David Trone sent to best save lives, protect vulnerable populations, nurture the careers of two gener - tion. He graduated in 1957 from passion in his career and in his a letter to President Donald Trump urging him to and safeguard the health of our communities as ations of African American pro - Morgan State University, whose personal life. His influence can swiftly approve a National Governors Association they see fit during this pandemic.” fessionals and innovators. Earl business school now bears his be seen everywhere from the request from Governors Hogan of Maryland and The federal government has taken steps to raise Graves was not just a chronicler name. humblest small businesses to the Cuomo of New York to waive all cost-sharing re - the federal cost-share in previous circumstances, of Black businesses and entrepre - Graves served two years as an c-suites of the nation’s most in - quirements for assistance under the COVID-19 such as after devastating hurricanes and flooding. neurs, but a leader, and a role officer in the Army, then worked fluential corporations. The Urban Emergency Declaration and Major Disaster Dec - This request comes as Maryland emergency agen - model for excellence in his own in various jobs before joining the League Movement extends its larations. Team Maryland has actively supported cies continue to work to obtain critical medical right. presidential campaign of Lyndon deepest sympathy to his children Maryland’s requests for robust federal support of supplies—including ventilators, Personal Protective Graves’ partnership with Johnson in 1964. The next year and grandchildren and all who the state and local response to COVID-19. Equipment (PPE) and testing supplies—that remain and support of the National Ur - he was appointed to the staff of loved him. “Increasing the federal cost-share will allow unfulfilled from FEMA. ban League was extensive and U.S. Senator Robert F. Kennedy, state and local governments to focus solely on re - influential. for whom he worked until the

UM Laurel from A 1 Medical Center is not a community testing clinic and cannot be ac - was quickly approved by the state. cessed by general referrals from Primary Care Physicians. Unless Within UMMS, there has been an increase in patients with COVID-19 related expansion of UM Laurel Medical Center will directly admitted through the emergency department, walkups will COVID-19 symptoms and the system has been actively planning open and start treating patients during the last week of April. not be permitted. Patients will be transported to UM Laurel Medical for this increase and is refining detailed surge plans for each facil - Under the leadership of CEO Mohan Suntha, the University of Center through either emergency department or hospital inter-facility ity—including staff planning and implementing innovative models Maryland Medical System has been engaged in exhaustive prepara - referrals. of care such as telehealth capabilities. tion to increase bed, staff, and equipment capacity to adapt to the UM Laurel Medical Center will be staffed by nearly 400 highly COVID-19 presents immediate hazards to the health of patients rapidly evolving COVID-19 pandemic. The ultimate goal of this vetted contractual medical professionals / health care workers and statewide, particularly in Prince George’s County which currently project is to expand capacity by adding 135 additional beds at UM will not reduce staff at UM Capital Region Health or other local has the highest number of confirmed cases in the state. Ensuring Laurel Medical Center in preparation for the high probability of UMMS facilities. The center and the all staff will be managed and the safety of patients, frontline medical staff, and team members re - volume surge due to COVID-19. overseen by UMMS and UM Capital Region Health leadership. The mains and will remain a top priority of the University of Maryland “We are proud to be the principal team activating this monumental updated visitor policy for all UMMS health care facilities will be in Medical System and all its leadership. surge response at UM Laurel Medical Center,” says Joseph Wright, effect. “We are beyond appreciative for the dedication and resilience of MD, MPH, President and CEO (interim), UM Capital Region Health. On March 16, 2020, Governor Larry Hogan issued an Executive our employees during this COVID-19 pandemic,” says Min Godwin, The dogged commitment and execution by the project management Order directing the Maryland Department of Health to work with Chief Operating Officer (interim), UM Capital Region Health. “It team is a testament to the inherent professionalism on display across health care facilities and providers to temporarily reopen closed fa - is their sacrifices and putting the needs of our community and our the system as we respond to this unprecedented crisis” cilities across the state and to take other measures necessary to im - patients first that is getting us though this pandemic.” This temporarily expanded UM Laurel Medical Center will treat mediately increase statewide hospital capacity. UMMS officially UMMS will continue to plan for an increase in volumes while patients suspected of being infected with COVID-19 and those who requested an Emergency Certificate of Need to establish a temporary working as a system to ensure all patients receive the care and at - have already tested positive. Importantly, the expanded UM Laurel remote location of UM Capital Region Health with 135 beds, which tention needed. April 16 — April 22, 2020 — The Prince George’s Post — A 7 HEALTH AND WELLNESS Affinity Community Development, Inc. April Is National Donate Announces Free Mental Health Life Month Counseling Services By JECOLIAH ELLIS or intestine. Thousands more need tis - Washington Regional transplant sues such as corneas to restore sight, For First Responders Community skin to heal burns, heart valves to re - A Focus on Community Wraparound Services pair defects, bones to correct injuries April is National Donate Life and tendons/ligaments to restore By MATEEN ABDULLAH In keeping with the national social Month, a time to encourage people to movement. Affinity Community Development, Inc. distancing regulations, the Washington register as organ, eye and tissue donors Currently, there are more than 2,200 Despite the ongoing spread of D.C. clinic, Life Enhancement Services and to celebrate those who have saved patients in the D.C. metropolitan area COVID-19, WRTC staff continue to SILVER SPRING , Md. (April 8, and Healthy Lives Maryland of Balti - lives through the gift of donation. waiting for a lifesaving transplant. Pa - recover and allocate organs and tissues 2020—On Thursday, April 2, Affinity more City, will be providing the mental Across the United States, there are tients like Malkia White who was di - for transplant candidates. WRTC is Community Development, Inc. an - health counseling services via video and more than 112,000 patients on the na - agnosed with kidney disease when she working with hospital partners and nounced immediate availability of free conference call. Additionally, these ses - tional transplant waiting list who need was a young girl. She successfully transplant centers to ensure as many mental health counseling services for sions will include coverage for co-pays a kidney, heart, lungs, pancreas, liver, managed her disease most of her life, patients receive lifesaving transplants those directly affected by the COVID- paid for by Affinity Community Devel - until a few years ago, when her kidney as possible during this unprecedented 19 pandemic. This offer of support will opment. Since the launch of this service function went into rapid decline. medical crisis. The Centers for encourage first responders, fire fighters, a week ago, community members have Malkia, who is now on the waiting list Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) EMT’s, police officers, veterans, doc - been taking advantage of the free serv - for a new kidney, relies on dialysis has declared organ recovery as essen - tors, and hospital staff, including civil - ice. These counseling services for first treatment three nights a week to keep tial, and WRTC’s dedicated front-line ian staff members of these organizations responders and others directly affected her alive. staff are tenacious and committed to to receive mental health counseling. by the COVID-19 pandemic, are the Washington Regional Transplant fulfilling our mission. WRTC will be Furloughed workers, those laid off and first steps in improving the mental Community (WRTC) is the local non- observing National Donate Life Month individuals from underserved commu - health of our community. For more in - profit organ procurement organization online. Please join WRTC on Face - nities are also able to receive this assis - formation on how to access the men - responsible for facilitating the donation book, Instagram, and Twitter to help tance to navigate this traumatic and un - tal health counseling services email process. Last year, WRTC recovered honor donors, recipients, and their certain time through this free service. [email protected] or contact and allocated 485 lifesaving organs families and caregivers. “I think it’s important for essential 202-681-2622. from 145 generous donors, saving the Be part of the miracle. During Na - workers and first responders to have ac - lives of 417 individuals. In addition, tional Donate Life Month, give people cess to mental health assistance, to help Expanded Services for the WRTC also recovered tissues from like Malkia hope by registering to be them develop coping skills and respond Community 462 benevolent donors, whose pre - an organ, eye and tissue donor at in the right way to what they face when Affinity Community Development, PHOTO COURTESY WRTC cious gifts could enhance the lives of BeADonor.org. dealing with COVID-19 patients. This Inc. is a Maryland based non-profit Malkia White nearly 35,000 people. includes your day-today workers at gro - company that focuses on community cery stores and restaurants on the front wraparound services, affordable housing lines, that may also need support,” said and land development. Chanel Hicks, Resident Therapist with We have been in the community Fairfax County Government and volun - feeding the homeless and initiated a Chesapeake Life Center Moves Prince George’s teer for Affinity Community Develop - S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, En - ment, Inc. gineering, Arts, & Math) program at County Support Groups to Telehealth Firefighter, Adam Turner IV of DC Discovery Lane Preschool in Waldorf, By ELYZABETH MARCUSSEN counselors have all received training not be comfortable with it, the center Fire & EMS Engine Company #26, a MD. We launched the first phase Hospice of the Chesapeake in telehealth to be sure that the center’s suggests people call or email the office volunteer for Affinity’s S.T.E.A.M. pro - S.T.E.A.M. program at Discovery Lane services meet best practice standards. and grief professionals will work with gram, agrees with Chanel Hicks and Preschool with actor/comedian Felo - LARGO, Md. (April 6, 2020)—For All groups scheduled in the month of individuals to help them find appro - emphasized “The amount of first re - nious Munk from ABC’s acclaimed the duration of the COVID-19 health April for the Largo office will meet priate resources. The center is con - sponders that have been diagnosed with show, For Life. Unfortunately, due to emergency, Chesapeake Life Center, via telehealth. Whether or not those stantly monitoring the impact the pan - COVID-19. The stress and the surge in the current circumstance and restrictions 9500 Medical Center Drive, Suite 250, groups’ May or June meetings will be demic has on families and individuals 911 calls due to COVID-19 plays a role presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, Largo, Maryland, will offer its regular held via telehealth or in the office will and has responded by implementing in the day-to-day stress, but also the support groups via a telehealth plat - be determined prior to the scheduled recommended safety practices and families of the first responders experi - form, Zoom for Healthcare, and not in date. postponing public events scheduled in ence anxiety for their loved ones.” See COUNSELING Page A11 its offices. Chesapeake Life Center Di - • Prince George’s County teen Sup - April. rector Susan Coale said that increased port Group is a way for youth ages Registration is required for all feelings of anxiety, loneliness and de - 13 to 18 to connect with others their groups and can be completed by call - pression are normal in the face of so age who also grieve the death of a ing 888-501-7077 or emailing many changes. “We know how impor - loved one. It will meet via Zoom for [email protected]. Alzheimer’s Association National tant our services are to people who are Healthcare from 6:30 to 8 p.m. May For details on telehealth bereavement already coping with the loss of a loved 13 and June 10. services, visit www.hospice Capital Area Chapter Offers one,” she said. “Grief can be even chesapeake.org/clc-covid-19. more acute when it is compounded • SoulCollage Grief Support Group Free Virtual Education Classes with decreased social interaction, the has participants create a series of Chesapeake Life Center , a program By CINDY SCHELHORN through the journey online. Information cancelling of events that we were look - collages to commemorate lost loved service of Hospice of the Chesapeake, Alzheimer’s Association on upcoming webinars and support ing forward to, and worrying about the ones and to visually journal the grief serves hospice family members and the groups can be found on the chapter’s health and safety of others as well as process. The group will meet via community with bereavement services MCLEAN , Va. (April 7, 2020)—While website at alz.org/nca and by calling the ourselves.” Zoom for Healthcare from 5 to 8 and activities aimed at enhancing the the COVID-19 pandemic threatens the Alzheimer’s Association at 800-272- With all of these factored into place, p.m. May 4 and June 1. quality of life for those grieving the loss health of millions in this country and 3900. the center will offer as many services Acknowledging that not everyone of a loved one. For details, visit around the world, the novel coronavirus The Alzheimer’s Association also of - as is feasible via telehealth. The team’s has access to this technology or may www.chesapeakelifecenter.org. presents unique challenges for more than fers online resources at alz.org, includ - 5 million Americans, including 110,000 ing ALZConnected®, a free online people in Maryland living with community where people living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers. Alzheimer’s, caregivers, family and Coronavirus and Alzheimer’s: The Alzheimer’s Association Na - friends can ask questions, get advice tional Capital Area Chapter is offering and find support, and a section specific What Family Caregivers Need to Know free virtual education programs, as well to caregiving during the current com - (StatePoint) The COVID-19 pandemic ing with dementia. These individu - as telephone and virtual support groups, plex and quickly changing environment threatens the health of millions in this als often take their cues from the in the coming weeks to help caregivers of COVID-19. The Association’s free country and around the world, but the people around them. Creating a calm and their families. The Alzheimer’s As - 24/7 Helpline (800-272-3900) is avail - novel coronavirus presents unique environment will help them feel safe sociation offers a number of education able around the clock, 365 days a year, challenges for more than 5 million and protected. programs that can help those living with with professional staff ready to provide Americans living with Alzheimer’s •Play gatekeeper with outside care - Alzheimer’s and their families under - reliable information and support to for and more than 16 million family mem - givers and guests. Carefully moni - stand what to expect so they can be pre - caregivers and families impacted by bers and friends serving as their care - tor who is coming into the home to pared to meet the changes ahead and Alzheimer’s and all dementia. givers. ensure all who enter are healthy. Be live well for as long as possible. Additional Alzheimer’s Statistics: COURTESY ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION “Public health strategies aimed at proactive in asking outside care - “During this challenging time, it’s • More than 5 million Americans are limiting contact with others are nearly Alzheimer’s and other dementias givers and guests about their current critical that all people in Maryland af - living with Alzheimer’s disease, in - impossible for people living with may not be able to communicate if health status and make sure they are fected by Alzheimer’s disease and de - cluding 110,000 in Maryland—a Alzheimer’s and other dementias who they are feeling bad or showing not experiencing any early or recent mentia have ready access to information number estimated to grow to as many rely on family caregivers and others early symptoms of illness. Care - symptoms of illnes s. and support,” said Kate Rooper, presi - as 130,000 by 2025. to live their daily lives,” says Beth givers should monitor family mem - • Ask residential care facilities dent of the Alzheimer’s Association Na - • More than 16 million family and Kallmyer, vice president, care and sup - bers closely and respond quickly to about communication policies. To tional Capital Area Chapter. “While the friends, including 294,000 in Mary - port, Alzheimer’s Association. “This any signs of distress, discomfort or protect the health of residents, many COVID-19 crisis has impacted our daily land, provide unpaid care to people reality affects these individuals across increased confusion. These signs do facilities are restricting access to lives, support and resources are even with Alzheimer’s or other dementias all settings, including home, adult day not necessarily indicate a serious outside visitors. Ask the facility more critical for our caregivers and in the United States. services, residential and assisted living condition like COVID-19, but it’s about alternative communication those with the disease. By transitioning • In 2019, those family members and facilities and nursing homes.” important to determine the underly - methods during the crisis, including our education programs from in-person friends in Maryland provided an esti - To help family caregivers navigate ing cause. phone calls, video chats or emails. to virtual presentations—and our sup - mated 335 million hours of unpaid the complex COVID-19 environment, • Prepare for potential changes in If your family member is unable to port groups to telephone and virtual care, a contribution valued at more the Alzheimer’s Association is offering care and support. As public health engage in calls or video chats, ask meetings—we’re providing real-time than $4.389 billion. additional guidance to families, includ - containment strategies for COVID- the facility how you can connect connection, vital information and sup - Source: Alzheimer’s Association ing: 19 escalate, families need to antici - with staff to get health updates. port. Through these services, and more, 2020 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and • Foster safe hygiene habits. People pate that less help may be available. For more information, visit alz.org, the Alzheimer’s Association is here for Figures Report (alz.org/facts) living with Alzheimer’s and other It’s important for families to antici - the website of the Alzheimer’s Asso - our community. dementias may forget to wash their pate these changes and make plans ciation or call its free 24/7 Helpline at Free webinar topics include The Alzheimer’s Association leads the hands or follow other precautions for filling gaps in caregiving. 800-272-3900. Alzheimer’s disease and dementia ba - way to end Alzheimer’s and all other de - to ensure safe hygiene. Caregivers • Be calm and create a nurturing Many primary caregivers are not sics, warning signs of the disease, ef - mentia—by accelerating global research, are encouraged to be extra vigilant environment. The current COVID- good about asking for help even as fective communication strategies, care - driving risk reduction and early detec - in helping individuals practice safe 19 pandemic is creating added anx - care responsibilities escalate. It’s im - giving, and brain health. Each virtual tion, and maximizing quality care and hygiene. iety for everyone. Do your best to portant for family members and friends education program is approximately one support. Our vision is a world without • Monitor sudden or sustained be - remain calm, particularly in your in - to be proactive during the current crisis hour and allows the audience to ask Alzheimer’s and all other dementia®. havior changes. People living with teractions with family members liv - in asking caregivers how they can help. questions and engage with others going Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900. A8 — April 16 — April 22, 2020 — The Prince George’s Post COMPUTERS AND TECH Amid COVID-19 Restrictions, NASA LOCAL SPOTLIGHT the Hotel at the University of Maryland Mark Uffner—From the Depths of Offers Virtual Planning tools for Clients A Submarine to Outer Space By ELIZABETH M. JARRELL The Hotel partners with digital platforms to offer clients interactive video tours and NASA Goddard Space Flight Center diagrams of event spaces By GRACE CLARK meantime, interactive video tech - business back to our properties as Name: Mark Uffner for the Hotel at the University nology can help us overcome some quickly as possible,” said Brainard. Formal Job Classification: Structural analyst of Maryland of the challenges that have surfaced “There are actions we can take to - Organization: Code 542, Mechanical Systems as a result of the pandemic.” day to shape our future, provide for Analysis and Simulation Branch, Applied En - COLLEGE PARK, Md. (April 7, One of the services being uti - our team members, and help our gineering and Technology Directorate 2020)—As a result of COVID-19 lized, Realync, is a platform that al - industry recover—the future is and the restrictions on travel and lows for live interactive video tours what we make of it, and we know What do you do and what is most inter - gathering, The Hotel at the Univer - of sites. These live video tours will there are very bright days ahead.” esting about your role here at Goddard? sity of Maryland, a luxury hotel and allow meeting and event planners For more information on how to How do you help support Goddard’s mis - conference center adjacent to the from around the world to take utilize the new services offered by sion? University of Maryland (UMD), guided, customized site tours of The The Hotel at the University of I work with engineers and designers who and its managing company South - Hotel without boarding a plane or Maryland, visit https://www.the - develop a concept for a part or component. ern Management Corporation, are stepping onto the property. At the hotelumd.com/events-conferences/ They provide me with the design and I go looking to innovative ways to con - conclusion of the tour, the recorded or call the hotel’s Director of Sales through the gambit of structural analysis us - duct business. The Hotel and video is automatically emailed to and Marketing, Adriana Niepa at ing finite element analysis. I build finite ele - Southern Management Corporation the client, where it can be saved and 301-699-4253. ment models, which are used to predict how have launched digital solutions to forwarded to other key decision - a part will behave under certain conditions. I provide clients with tools to virtu - makers. Additionally, The Hotel has The Hotel at the University of Mary - can then analyze the model by applying ally experience and interact with partnered with multiple video-con - land is an independent hotel offering launch loads or determining the fundamental PHOTO CREDITS: NASA/W. HRYBYK its properties and event spaces. ferencing companies to complement business and leisure visitors elegant frequency response. “Our goal is to provide clients in-house capabilities by connecting accommodations, an array of dining I am also a co-chair for the Veterans Ad - Mark Uffner with the opportunity to begin plan - groups of any size from anywhere choices and world-class service and visory Committee. ning now, even if they are unable around the globe. amenities. Located across from the to be on-site,” said Jeff Brainard, “These new virtual opportunities main entrance to the University of Tell us about your 10 years as a nuclear So going to engineering school seemed a nat - vice president of Sales and Mar - will be key in helping our teams Maryland, College Park campus, machinist’s mate in the U.S. Navy? ural progression. keting at Southern Management drive toward building a strong fu - the AAA Four Diamond luxury hotel After I graduated high school, I enlisted I originally started at Montgomery Col - Corporation. “We must be ready to ture. We want to provide our team and conference center is convenient in the Navy because of all the opportunities lege’s mechanical engineering program and respond to the needs of the market and clients with hope and show that to Washington D.C., Maryland and offered. I had a choice of careers and decided then transferred to the University of Mary - as soon as it recovers, and in the we are working with them to bring Virginia. to become a nuclear machinist’s mate, which land’s mechanical engineering program. I involved two years of Navy schooling. As a also became a Pathways student at Goddard, nuclear machinist’s mate, I performed main - so I was a full-time student and part-time Facial Recognition in Law Enforcement: A New Normal tenance and operated the nuclear propulsion employee. I started in safety and moved into Join the National Law Enforcement Memorial and Museum for a free special live-streamed plant of a submarine. structural analysis. When I graduated in 2017, I began working full-time in my current po - event on Thursday, April 23 at 10 a.m. EDT What is the rotation schedule for a nu - sition. By PRESS OFFICER Panelists: clear submarine? National Law Enforcement Museum • Sakira Cook, Director of Justice Reform, The Lead - I was on a ballistic missile submarine, What are some of the more interesting ership Conference on Civil and Human Rights and which has a crew of about 130 people. Each projects you have worked on at Goddard? Join the National Law Enforcement Memorial and the Leadership Conference Educational Fund sub has a set rotation schedule of personnel, I am very excited about my current project Museum for a special event: Facial Recognition in • Barry Friedman, Faculty Director and the Jacob D. meaning two crews, each of which takes out working for the spacecraft Plankton Aerosol Law Enforcement: A New Normal. The program, Fuchsberg Professor of Law Policing Project at New the sub for about three months before return - Cloud Ocean Ecosystem (PACE). I am part which is part of the organization’s Conversations se - York University School of Law ing to rotate. When a crew is on land, the of the group working on the actual spacecraft. ries, will focus on issues surrounding facial recognition • Dr. Jonathan Phillips, Electronic Engineer at The crew receives training. We had three months I did some of the observatory-level perform - technology, including the pros and cons of its use, ap - National Institute of Standards and Technology’s in a sub, combined with the other crew for a ance analysis, a multi-disciplinary analysis plications during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, Information Technology Laboratory month of maintenance, and then three months involving thermal and systems engineers. I normalizing surveillance in public spaces, the need • Jay Stanley, Senior Policy Analyst, American Civil of training on land. applied a temperature profile to a structural for effective and efficient law enforcement tools in Liberties Union model to see how the temperatures caused the digital age, ethnic bias and privacy concerns, and Facial Recognition in Law Enforcement: A New Please describe life on a submarine. the structure to expand and contract. This legal accountability and oversight. The panel discus - Normal will be live-streamed via Crowdcast. To reg - A sub is a long, steel tube. There are no movement, although slight, is significant in sion will include an opportunity for listeners around ister, go to Crowdcast, click on Save My Spot, and windows. All the light is artificial. The air is that any instruments attached to the structure the world to ask questions and add to the conversa - enter your email address. You will receive a confir - artificial. We make our own water using would also shift slightly altering where they tion. mation email upon registration. steam and heat from the power plant and then were pointing. This is phenomenon is called Moderator: James Burch, National Police Founda - This program is provided to the public for free, desalinate the water, which was something I thermal distortion. tion President thanks to the generosity of Target. did. It is pretty much a large industrial space and is not meant for comfort. What do you enjoy best about Goddard? I love my job. I love being able to answer EDUCATION The back third is the engine room and is primarily where I worked. There is a dining difficult questions. It is always something area called the crew mess. new, always challenging and I love chal - We worked on an 18-hour day and in dif - lenges. New Ways to Keep Kids Engaged ferent watch sections. There were three main watch sections. Each watch section would What do you do as co-chair of the Veter - While Distance-Learning take over the ship for a six-hour block. So ans Advisory Committee? (StatePoint) As learning goes re - tional websites and free printable ent is looking for a role-play toy you had six hours of watch, then six hours of We have a monthly meeting of the entire mote, many teachers and families activity books to help parents max - for their child that loves pretending maintenance or training, and then six hours committee. The three co-chairs meet more are doing their best to adjust. Luck - imize their children’s time outside to be a chef, a desk to practice writ - of sleep. frequently. One of our co-chairs left, and two ily, new resources and tools are the classroom and keep them en - ing skills or an interactive learning others replaced her. Everyone is always will - emerging to help ease this process. gaged. system to get kids excited about How did you cope with the isolation while ing to drop everything they are doing to work For example, the “Learn Families can also access an ex - reading, personalized toy recom - on the sub? on what needs to be done. We are very in - Through This” campaign, an ini - tended free trial of the LeapFrog mendations will make it easier for In one way, we were isolated but in an - volved in the center’s diversity and inclusion tiative of VTech Electronics North Academy educational app, as well parents to keep children engaged other way we were in each other’s face. program. America, is expanding learning op - as reduced costs on the six-month and learning. Each person lives in a bunk room with a Our two big, center-wide events usually portunities for kids at home. Here’s and 12-month plans. An interactive total of nine people. My bed was 2½ feet help celebrate Veterans’ Day in November what to know about the campaign learning program filled with over Support for Schools wide by 6 feet long. The beds were arranged and Memorial Day in May. We do all kinds and how your family can access 2,000 engaging games and activi - As schools remain closed, many in a horseshoe and stacked three high. There of different things. Sometimes we have a these resources: ties for 3-6 year olds, the app can parents are getting a fuller picture was a little storage under each bed for per - speaker or an Honor Guard, often both. We be used on any device with no Wi- of the important role teachers play sonal items. We were all together. We had no recently brought four people from the Veter - Online Resources Fi required. and the scope of their responsibili - other option but to work together. When put ans Administration to answer questions about Through the LeapFrog Learning ties. To support educators faced in a hard position, you ultimately have to personal benefits. We try to do anything and Path, an online portal featuring free Learning toys with the challenge of recreating the deal with it and move forward. everything we can to help our veterans. resources to keep children learning It’s not always easy to ensure classroom from home, VTech Elec - I worked out a lot. We did not have a gym, at home, parents can find valuable toys chosen for children enrich their tronics North America made a but equipment, such as a treadmill or free Who was your last speaker? advice from learning experts on a development and encourage learn - $50,000 donation to AdoptAClass - weights, were tucked in corners. For our last Veterans Day event, Novem - variety of topics, such as preparing ing. To help parents find the right room.org’s COVID-19 Disaster Re - We could receive incoming emails from ber 2019, Dr. Jonny Kim, then an astronaut kids with 21st century skills and toys to meet their children’s needs, lief Fund. The fund will be dis - loved ones, but we could not send any. We candidate and now an astronaut, spoke at learning to read. In addition, the VTech and LeapFrog will be shar - bursed to high-needs teachers and had no telephones or internet. We could not Wallops Flight Facility. Astronaut Kim was portal provides a suggested daily ing video walkthroughs on their schools impacted by COVID-19. A send or receive regular letters. We were iso - a Navy seal and is a medical doctor. We hope schedule, a curated list of educa - YouTube channels. Whether a par - national, award-winning nonprofit, lated. someday to ask Dr. Kim to speak at God - AdoptAClassroom.org is working I also read a lot. I also watched movies on dard. directly with educators, schools and my laptop. We could not live stream, so we His speech blew me away! He said he vendor partners to identify their had to download any movies before embark - wanted to become an astronaut to reach out needs and get tools in the hands of ing. The same was true for any e-books. to kids having trouble with direction. He students to make sure the learning wants to show them that they can do big, doesn’t stop. After 10 years in the Navy, why did you amazing things. For more information about the decide to become an engineer? How did you Is there something surprising about you, “Learn Through This” campaign come to Goddard? your hobbies, interests or activities outside and the resources available to your Right before my last underway, meaning of work that people do not generally know? family, visit learnthroughthis.com. my time at sea, I met my future wife. Not I am really into audio equipment. Over Parents, teachers and children being able to talk and being isolated from the shutdown, I built a headphone tube amp. are facing unique challenges during her made it too difficult, so I decided to leave I am now building a bigger and better one. this unprecedented time. But with the Navy. Also, I was an amateur bodybuilder while the right balance of education and A lot of my job in the Navy was mechan - in school. I competed in a regional event in fun, children can continue to thrive ical and hands-on in nature. I very much en - Baltimore. I still enjoy working out, but not PHOTO COURTESY STATEPOINT and learn. joyed working difficult mechanical problems. to the level of bodybuilding. April 16 — April 22, 2020 — The Prince George’s Post — A 9 ENVIRONMENT YOUR GARDEN Your Backyard Isn’t Cancelled: Six tips to Celebrate Earth Day Right at Home (NAPSI)—The 50th anniversary of Earth and well-being, and so important today as termine the best types of turf, trees, shrubs, Day on April 22 can be a good time for everyone looks for creative ways to stay well and plants for the climate zone. everyone to take some time to get outside, while being confined to the home. Re - 5. Keep pollinators in mind. Your yard even if current conditions mean a community searchers have found that people living in is an important part of the connected event to celebrate isn’t available. Fortunately, neighborhoods with more birds, shrubs and ecosystem providing much- needed food there are plenty of ways to honor the Earth trees are less likely to suffer from depression, and shelter for pollinators, such as birds, in your own backyard. anxiety and stress. bees, butterflies, bats, and other creatures. “You don’t need to leave home to celebrate 2. Make the outdoors a family project. Select a variety of plants that will bloom Earth Day. Remember, nature starts at your Take your loved ones outside to assess your all year long. The Audubon Society’s data - back door,” explains Kris Kiser, President of space. What’s working well? What could be base can help determine which birds will the TurfMutt Foundation, an organization that improved? What can you plan to do together be attracted to which plants for unique re - encourages outdoor learning experiences, in your backyard? Anything needing to be gions so you can make good choices about stewardship of green spaces, and care for liv - cleaned up? Make a plan to expand or spruce what to plant. ing landscapes for the benefit of all. up your yard. 6. Plant, prune or mow. Staying con - IMAGE CREDIT: LIVIER GARCIA, PEXELS “Get outside, mow your lawn, trim 3. Connect kids to nature. Free, online, fined to home base doesn’t mean gardening Although Americans love corn, its ubiquity in our diets and bushes, plant a butterfly bush. By becoming do-at-home lesson plans are available from and yard work have to stop. Order garden agricultural sector isn’t so good for the planet. a steward of your yard, you are helping the the TurfMutt.com. The environmental edu - supplies online or have them delivered from planet. At the same time, you’re supporting cation program resources and activities, a nearby nursery. Mow the lawn and trim Earth your health and well-being, which is increas - based on STEM (science, technology, engi - bushes. ™ the ingly important as families spend more time neering and math) principles, give kids the Research shows people who gardened for at home.” prompts they need to have fun learning about at least 30 minutes a week had lower body TALK and exploring the nature and science in their mass indexes (BMIs)—measure of body Environmental What You Can Do own backyards. fat—well as higher levels of self-esteem and Here are six tips to celebrate Earth Day 4. Know your climate zone. Learn about better moods overall. They also reported Impact of Corn without ever leaving home: climate-zone-appropriate plants, the impor - lower levels of tension and stress. tance of pollinators, and how backyards can Dear EarthTalk: 1. Get outside. Your backyard is an out - support local wildlife. Conduct a plant in - Learn More door living room and safe place for pets and ventory to determine what’s currently thriv - For further facts and tips on saving How did corn become such a dominant crop in the U.S. and kids to play. Science proves spending time ing in your backyard. Match that up against the planet one yard at a time, go to what’s the effect on the environment of growing so much of it? in your family’s yard is good for your health the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map to de - www.turfmutt.com. —J.S., Washington, DC

It’s true that corn is the most dominant agricultural product in the U.S., and perhaps the world. Originally domesticated in New NASA Podcast Helps Listeners Central America, European explorers initially shunned it. But when their crops failed, the conquerors of the New World decided Explore Our ‘Curious Universe’ to integrate corn into their agricultural efforts. Fast forward: A couple of hundred years and this tall grass now covers 90 million IMAGE CREDIT NASA acres of land in America alone, and accounts for some10 percent By SEAN POTTER / KATIE ATKINSON of total crop production globally. NASA Headquarters / Goddard Space Flight Center, verse the Amazon rainforest, Find the NASA’s Curious Corn is so ubiquitous in our food system that an estimated Greenbelt, Md. dive into an astronaut training Universe trailer now on Apple 70 percent of the atoms in the body of the average American pool, and peer inside a lab where Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and originally came from it. WASHINGTON (April 6, NASA’s missions, projects and “space crafters” sew for NASA Soundcloud. One of the reasons corn is so dominant is that, as far as crops 2020)—NASA’s newest podcast people. Each episode is an invi - missions. The premiere episode, NASA’s Curious Universe is go, it excels at converting raw materials into chemical energy. is taking listeners on an adven - tation to an adventure with a which debuted April 13, honors the latest addition to NASA’s Growing corn generates far more calories per unit of land than ture to explore the wonders of NASA expert, such as astronaut 50 years of Earth Day. New podcast portfolio, which includes nearly any other crop. Another key factor in corn’s rise was the Earth and help unravel the mys - Nick Hague and astrophysicist episodes will be released every Houston, We Have a Podcast, On surplus of ammonium nitrate after the end of World War II. teries of the universe. Michelle Thaller. Monday. a Mission and Gravity Assist, Agricultural scientists repurposed this compound, originally NASA’s Curious Universe The show, which launched NASA’s Curious Universe is among others. stockpiled for explosives, into a cheap form of fertilizer. This explores the wild and wonderful Monday, April 6, visits a wide for everyone and doesn’t require Discover all of NASA’s pod - allowed corn to be grown in the same fields year after year, places on our home planet and range of tour stops along any prior knowledge of NASA casts at: https://nasa.gov/ without depleting the nitrogen already in the soil. Additionally, beyond. Host Padi Boyd trans - NASA’s journeys in science and or its missions. First-time explor - podcasts corn is incredibly versatile. We can eat it, process it into syrup ports listeners into the world of spaceflight. Listeners will tra - ers welcome! and use it as a sweetener, fuel our cars with it, and feed it to our animals. Currently, we use approximately 40 percent of corn grown in the U.S to create ethanol, and 36 percent to feed animals. Un - fortunately, both uses wreak havoc on the environment. Ethanol Earth has a low “energy-returned-on-energy-invested” ratio, meaning ™ Our Pets and Coronavirus we must put a large amount of energy into producing it, in some TALK cases even more than ethanol itself generates. Even just growing corn is far from environmentally friendly. Dear EarthTalk: sneezing and even just talking. “There is no infected,” reports Li Lanjuan, an epidemi - Conventional monoculture farming (the way most corn is grown) Can our pets get sick from the coron - reason to think that any animals or pets in ologist with China’s National Health Com - degrades soil and often leads to harmful runoff into streams and avirus too, and can they pass it along to the United States might be a source of in - mission, adding that a pet who has been ex - rivers. Pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers can all wreak havoc people? fection with this novel coronavirus.” posed to Covid-19 should be isolated just on aquatic organisms. —J.M., Bridgeport, CT But CDC nevertheless recommends stay - like any human who has shown symptoms An indirect negative effect of the supremacy of corn has been ing out of contact with pets if you have con - or tested positive. “In addition to people, we its help in fueling explosive growth in the livestock industry at Given that Covid-19 probably originated tracted the virus (or if you suspect you have should be careful with other mammals es - home and abroad. These days we use about 80 percent of the in bats means that it’s no surprise that the it). “Although there have been no reports of pecially pets.” world’s farmland for animal production. But as a result of ani - dreaded virus can pass between animals and pets becoming sick with COVID-19 in the mals’ inefficiency in converting feed to energy, animal agriculture humans. But when a four-year-old Malayan United States, it is still recommended that CONtACtS: “Can Dogs Get Coron - produces only 18 percent of the world’s calories. tiger at the Bronx Zoo tested positive for people sick with COVID-19 limit contact avirus,” akc.org/expert-advice/news/can- So, what can we do? On a political level, agricultural subsidies Coronavirus recently (and six of his peers with animals until more information is dogs-get-coronavirus/; Coronavirus and pets: for corn can be either eliminated or redistributed. Some 60 per - showed similar symptoms), it sent shock known about the virus,” warns CDC. “This How COVID-19 affects cats and dogs, cent of farm subsidies in the U.S. go toward corn and other waves across the United States, especially can help ensure both you and your animals cnet.com/how-to/coronavirus-and-pets-how- grains, while only one percent goes toward promoting healthier in the two-thirds of American households stay healthy.” covid-19-affects-cats-and-dogs/; CDC’s “If and more eco-friendly fruits and non-grain vegetables. with pets. If you are sick, CDC recommends trying You Have Animals,” cdc.gov/coronavirus/ Farmers themselves can transition from monoculture prac - Zoo officials report that the tiger started to get other people to take care of your ani - 2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/animals.html. tices to those that incorporate a wider variety of species into getting sick on March 27 after exposure to a mals until you’re all better. And if that’s not the mix. As consumers, one of the best measures we can take is human handler who later tested positive for possible, minimize contact with your pets Earthtalk® is produced by Roddy Scheer to buy organic corn. Organic agriculture is not quite as eco- Covid-19. (The zoo has been closed to the (especially petting, snuggling, kissing or & Doug Moss for the 501(c)3 nonprofit friendly as some make it out to be, it’s miles ahead of conven - public since March 16.) While the sick tigers licking, and sharing food) and wash your Earthtalk . See more at tional farming. are expected to recover fully, the spread of hands before and after your interactions. https://emagazine.com. To donate, visit the infection beyond humans is worrisome “If pets go out and have contact with an https://earthtalk.org. Send questions to: CONtACtS: “The Environmental Risks Of Corn Produc - to not only pet owners but also to those of infected person, they have the chance to get [email protected]. tion,” wbur.org/hereandnow/2014/06/11/corn-environmental- us concerned about the health of the planet’s risks; “How a national food policy could save millions of Amer - wildlife and biodiversity, which is already ican lives,” wapo.st/corn-op-ed. teetering on the ropes given the one-two punch of habitat loss and climate change. Earthtalk® is produced by Roddy Scheer & Doug Moss for the And if tigers can get it, what about house 501(c)3 nonprofit Earthtalk . See more cats? What about dogs? “There have been at https://emagazine.com. To donate, visit https://earthtalk.org. reports outside the U.S. of pet dogs or cats Send questions to: [email protected]. becoming infected after close contact with contagious people, including a Hong Kong dog that tested positive for a low level of the pathogen in February and early March,” reports Jennifer Peltz for the Associated Take 10 minutes and Press. “Hong Kong agriculture authorities BE COUNTED! concluded that pet dogs and cats couldn’t pass the virus to human beings but could test positive if exposed by their owner.” Have You Completed Your The Centers for Disease Control and Pre - vention (CDC) concurs that it’s not our pets Census Questionnaire? we should be worrying about, as the pan - PHOTOGRAPH CREDIT MUHANNAD ALATAWI, PEXELS demic is spreading as a result of human-to- A few dogs and cats tested positive for Covid-19 in Hong Kong, but experts don’t think human transmission thanks to our coughing, these animals can spread it to humans. A10 — April 16 — April 22, 2020 — The Prince George’s Post PETS

Who’s a Good Dog? More than 400 of Humankind’s Best Friends Nominated for Chance to Become Nation’s top Hero Dog Public Voting Open to Choose Semifinalists for2020 American Humane Hero Dog Awards® Sponsored by the Lois Pope LIFE Foundation, national campaign to culminate in red carpet awards gala and two-hour special on Hallmark Channel this fall By MARK STUBIS heroes,” said philanthropist and Platinum Presenting Sponsor Lois Harner at [email protected] or call 1-800-227-4645. American Humane Pope. “I am honored to present this invaluable effort to honor the best of our best friends and shine a light on the extraordinary acts of American Humane is the country’s first national humane organization, WASHINGTON (April 2, 2020)—Every dog has its day, and more courage and kindness performed by ordinary dogs.” founded in 1877. For more information, please visit www.american - than 400 of the nation’s bravest dogs are hoping that day will come During the past nine years, Americans have cast millions of votes humane.org. Please follow us on Facebook and Twitter and to inquire for them this fall during the 10th annual American Humane Hero for more than a thousand dogs, all seeking the coveted title of Amer - about Hero Dog Awards sponsorship opportunities, please email Mari Dog Awards®, which is sponsored by the Lois Pope LIFE Founda - ican Hero Dog. The program reaches more than 1 billion people Harner at [email protected]. tion and will be broadcast as a two-hour special on Hallmark Channel each year and draws the support and participation of top celebrity As one of America’s leading philanthropists, Lois Pope has positively this fall. Fully 408 of them are competing for the honor of being dog lovers from all over the world. Hosts, judges, award presenters impacted the lives of individuals at the local, national and international named 2020’s American Hero Dog, the highest honor a dog can re - and entertainment acts have included Jay Leno, Billy Crystal, Betty levels. She has established three separate organizations dedicated to ceive. Now it’s up to America to help decide which of these dogs White, Ariel Winter, Vivica A. Fox, Rebecca Romijn, Alison helping those in need. These organizations are the Lois Pope LIFE will take home the top prize. Sweeney, James Denton, Beth Stern, Bindi Irwin, Derek Hough, Foundation, Inc., Leaders In Furthering Education (LIFE), and the “Our best friends do so much to improve and even save our lives, Richard Marx, Katharine McPhee, Michelle Beadle, Whoopi Gold - Disabled Veterans’ LIFE Memorial Foundation. For more than 20 and every dog owner knows about the extraordinary, unbreakable berg, Denise Richards, Lisa Vanderpump, Chelsea Handler, Martin years she has been the driving force behind the Lois Pope LIFE bond they share with their dog,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, American Short, Jewel, Wilson Phillips, John Ondrasik, Carson Kressley, Mi - Center at the University of Miami School of Medicine, The American Humane president and CEO. “The American Humane Hero Dog randa Lambert, Pauley Perrette, Kristen Chenoweth, Naomi Judd, Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial, and a groundbreaking new pro - Awards are our way of celebrating the power of the human-animal Eric Stonestreet, Danica McKellar, Bailee Madison and many, many gram with American Humane in Palm Beach County. Lois Pope re - bond, which has been a core part of our organization’s mission for more. cently donated to American Humane several Lois Pope Rescue Vehi - 143 years.” Key dates for the 2020 American Humane Hero Dog Awards (all cles. Each rescue vehicle is a 50-foot long response unit, complete Dog lovers across the country are invited to visit rounds open and close at 12 p.m. Pacific Time): with a Ford F-350 truck and trailer, which is specifically designed www.herodogawards.org and vote once per day for their favorite 1st Round Voting: April 2–May 7 and outfitted to provide an array of animal emergency services and dogs in each of seven categories. After the first round of voting 2nd Round Voting: May 28–July 16 cruelty responses within a region. On Oct. 5, 2014, Mrs. Pope saw ends on May 7, 21 semifinalists (the top three in each category) will 3rd Round Voting: July 30–September 10 the completion of a decades-long dream—the American Veterans Dis - move on to the second round of voting. From this pool, the field Hero Dog Awards & Broadcast: Fall 2020, exact date/time to be abled for Life Memorial, which was dedicated by President Obama will narrow down to the seven category finalists. The winning dog announced in Washington DC. It will stand in perpetuity as a reminder to the in each category will take part in the nationally televised Hero Dog All rounds open and close at 12 p.m. Pacific Time. And because public and legislators of the courage and sacrifices of the four mil - Awards this fall and this year’s top American Hero Dog will be re - behind every hero pet is a hero vet or veterinary nurse, please be lion-plus living disabled veterans and all those who died before them, vealed. sure to cast a daily vote for your favorites in the 2020 American as well as the need to be vigilant in assuring their support and under - The seven categories for 2020 are: Military Dogs, sponsored by Humane Hero Veterinarian and Hero Veterinary Nurse Awards®, standing the human cost of war. Through her advocacy, Oct. 5 every the Lois Pope LIFE Foundation; Therapy Dogs, sponsored by the sponsored by Zoetis Petcare (a U.S. business unit of Zoetis), starting year will serve as a National Day of Honor for disabled veterans. A World Pet Association; Law Enforcement Dogs; Service Dogs; Shel - June 11 right here: www.HeroVetAwards.org. mother, a grandmother, and a great grandmother, Lois has trained ter Dogs; Search and Rescue Dogs; and, Guide/Hearing Dogs. Amer - For more information about the 2020 American Humane Hero for and completed five New York City Marathons. ican Airlines is the official airline of the Hero Dog Awards. Dog Awards, and to vote daily, please visit www.herodogawards.org. “The Hero Dog Awards recognize some of America’s bravest For more information on sponsorship opportunities, email Mari

Five tips to Reduce Your Pet’s Environmental Pawprint (Family Features) There’s your local waste management based bags is made from 30% think about accessories. plenty of advice on ways to re - services as regulations can vary sugarcane, which reduces the Pets go through countless duce your environmental foot - by community. While many use of petroleum-based materi - leashes, toys and dishes across print, but you might be left won - places suggest the compost pile, als. their lifespans. Thinking about dering about the environmental others may not. At home, consider ways to these items as investments and pawprint made by your pet. Consider your kitty’s litter. upcycle empty food bags to get purchasing items that are more According to a 2019 survey For the vast majority of cat more use out of the material, durable means they last longer conducted by the American Pet families, kitty litter is an ab - such as using them to collect and you’ll waste less. For gen - Products Association, 67% of solute must. Look for a litter garden and yard waste. You can tly used items you’re ready to families across the country have that’s made from natural ingre - also flatten bags into water - discard, like outgrown at least one dog or cat, which dients you can put in the com - proof mats for your vehicle’s leashes, consider whether they is why it’s important to think post bin. Not only is this better floorboards or make a water - still have useful life and can about how your furry friends for the environment, but natural proof barrier between your pet’s be reused by a rescue group affect the planet. ingredients keep your cat from bed and the floor. or shelter. Also, for toys in Consider these easy lifestyle accidentally ingesting toxic Prepare for water on the particular, it’s important to changes you can make to help chemicals. go. While humans can easily know what materials they con - reduce their environmental im - Look at food packaging. drink water from a reusable bot - tain. For example, some pet pact. Pets go through a lot of food, tle, most pets cannot. Instead toys are made with plastic Check those waste bags. and that means a lot of packag - of making a mess by attempting containing BPAs, which can Use compostable baggies to ing. You can reduce waste with to give water with your hands, be harmful and negatively im - pick up after your pet when you an option like Petcurean’s re - make things easy on yourself pact the environment. Instead take walks. Plastic bags take cyclable Tetra Pak cartons, and the environment by keeping look for toys that are made years to break down, if at all. which are made from 65% re - a stainless-steel water dish in from eco-friendly materials. There are options made from newable materials for Now your car. It’s a durable solution For more ideas to reduce plants and other materials that Fresh and GO! Solutions wet that keeps your pet from being your family’s environmental biodegrade quicker. When it food recipes. Additionally, its exposed to chemicals in plastic pawprint and care for your comes to disposal, check with Gather line of kibble in plant- or silicone. pet, visit petcurean.com/blog. April 16 — April 22, 2020 — The Prince George’s Post — A 11

Counseling from A 7 the upcoming S.T.E.A.M. programs and initiatives for several other COUNTY CHURCH DIRECTORY schools are on hold. For the summer, we are offering two programs to children of low-income families, a 4-week summer program for UNItED MEtHODISt BAPtISt BAPtISt UNItED MEtHODISt girls ages 6–14 to participate in ballet and gymnastics and piano and singing lessons taught by Tim Bias of Great Wayne Productions. (Times and dates are subject to the COVID-19 social distancing FIRSt BAPtISt CHURCH First Baptist Church of WEStPHALIA Union regulations.) OF HIGHLAND PARK College Park For more information on Affinity Community Development: United Methodist Church Welcomes You Where Jesus United Methodist Church Christ Is Lord and King www.mdartdistrict.com ‘A Bible Based, Christ Centered Stephen L. Wright, Sr., Pastor “A CHURCH ON tHE REACH FOR GOD” 14418 Old Marlboro Pike, & Spirit Led Congregation’ 9363 D’Arcy Road 5018 Lakeland Road Upper Marlboro, MD 6801 Sheriff Road Landover, MD Upper Marlboro, MD College Park, MD 20740 How To Draw on the Power of 20785 (301) 773-6655 301-474-3995 Church (301) 627-7389 Sunday Biblical Institute: www.fbc-cp.org two Worship Services: Sunday School : (Children/Adults) - 8:30 a.m. Perseverance During COVID-19 9:30 a.m. 8 and 10:30 a.m. Sunday School 9:30a.m. By PRESS OFFICER Sunday Worship: Sunday Worship : 10:00 a.m. Sunday School: 9:30 Sunday Worship 11a.m. News & Experts 7:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m. Holy Communion 1st Sunday Rev. Dr. Kendrick D. Weaver, Saturday Worship: Pastor (301)735-9373 Wednesday Bible Study 7-8p.m. People’s ability to keep up their spirits is being put to the test 6:30 p.m Wednesday Prayer Service 8p.m. www.uumchurch.com during the COVID-19 pandemic. Health concerns, job concerns, Fax: (301) 735-1844 ‘WONDERFUL WEDNESDAYS and disruptions to day-to-day routines have combined to create a WITH JESUS’: Man’s best friend comes to challenging situation for Americans and for people throughout the Rev. Dr. timothy West, Church Directory the rescue: A Maryland winery world. Pastor 12 noon (The Power Hour) and 6:45 pm Advertisements are paid ads. has found a unique way of ad - But for anyone wondering whether they can persevere through hering to social distancing proto - “A time of Prayer, Praise, Call the Prince George’s Post these difficult times, it’s important to keep something in mind— ALL ARE WELCOME cols during the coronavirus out - Worship, & the Word” today and have your Church others are likely counting on you, says Troy Nix (www.troynix.com), information published in our break, reports the Association of Web Site: Dr. Henry P. Davis III, Pastor Mature American Citizens a motivational speaker, businessman and author of Eternal Impact: www.westphaliaum.org Directory. Call Today! Inspire Greatness in Yourself and Others. www.fbhp.org 301-627-0900 [AMAC]. The Stone House Ur - ban Winery, located in Hager - “Anytime you are in a tough place in life or in business, when stown, MD, is providing curbside you feel as if you cannot go on, you can summon energy from delivery of wine using a delivery knowing you must carry the load so others can succeed along with S. G. Spottswood BAPtISt COMMUNItY CHURCH dog. It allows patrons and Stone you,” says Nix, founder and CEO of First Resource Inc., an associ - A.M.E. Zion Church House employees to avoid getting ation-management company specializing in manufacturing networks. dangerously close. The boxer’s “Whether it’s your employees, your co-workers or your family, 419 Hill Road, Landover, MD Forest Heights WORD OF GOD name is Soda Pup and the canine you do not want to let them down.” 20785 • 301-490-2625 Baptist Church COMMUNITY not only helps ensure safety, he’s Here’s the positive, Nix says. People have inside themselves the We exist to strengthen your attracting new customers, as well. Rev. Ranesa Mayo, Pastor capability to develop the kind of perseverance that will see them relationship with God. CHURCH Lori Yata, co-owner of the win - “We are training disciples to 6371 Oxon Hill Road “The Church Where Everybody is Somebody and ery, told WJLA-TV: “We’ve had through the world’s current health and economic crisis – and through experience victory in every Oxon Hill, Maryland 20745 Jesus is Lord people call in just specifically to future crises they are certain to encounter. His tips for developing area of their lives” Sunday School 4109 Edmonston Road Bladensburg, MD have Soda Pup bring wine out to that level of perseverance include: (Adults & Children) - 9:30 A.M. Have a strong vision of the future. Olympic athletes often pic - Matthew 28:19 –20 (301) 864-3437 them—people who have never Worship Service - 11:00 A.M. even been here before.” And, in ture a perfect routine or a perfect race, playing it over and over in Wed. Prayer Service & Bible Sunday School 9:00 a.m. case you worry that Soda Pup is their minds until they can actually perform it. Similarly Nix, who Study - 7:00 P.M. Intercessory Prayer:Sundays - 8:30 a.m. Morning Worship 10:00 a.m. Church School : - 9:15 a.m. being exposed to infection, fear attended West Point, says the only thing that kept him from dropping Office (301) 839-1166 not—the American Kennel As - Fax (301) 839-1721 Morning Worship Celebration- 10:30 a.m. out of the demanding military academy was to visualize himself sociation says that “COVID-19, Soulful Thursdays E-mail: [email protected] Wed. Night Bible Study - 7:45 p.m. tossing his hat in the air on graduation day. “I envisioned that day Bible Study 7:00 p.m. Pastor: Rev. Waymond B. Duke is believed to not be a health on every single one of the nearly 1,410 days I was on the academy Elder Willie W. Duvall, Pastor threat to dogs.” grounds,”he says. “People can get through our current times the same way. Try to envision what success will mean to you once this crisis is over.” Understand how others survived tough times. 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Medical System Announces Universal Masking Policy at All Facilities in Response to COVID-19 By JANIA MATTHEWS University of Maryland Medical System

BALTIMORE, Md. (April 6, 2020)—As part of its ongoing pre - paredness and response effort regarding COVID-19 and in order to protect patients, staff and visitors, the University of Maryland Med - ical System (UMMS) has implemented a Universal Masking Policy for all 13 System hospitals and other UMMS healthcare facilities which began Monday, April 6 at 7 a.m. and continues until further notice. The Universal Masking Policy will require every person within an UMMS acute care or ambulatory facility to wear a face mask at all times. “The fight against the COVID-19 pandemic is happening on multiple fronts, and our mission to provide high-quality, compas - sionate and safe patient care and to ensure the safety of our workforce has never been as demanding or as important as it is right now,” said Mohan Suntha, MD, MBA, President and Chief Executive Of - ficer of University of Maryland Medical System. “Given the asymptomatic community spread of COVID-19, we have shifted to a broader stance on infection prevention, including this masking policy, out of an abundance of caution and respect for the safety of our patients and staff,” Dr. Suntha added. UMMS staff members are being provided with appropriate masks to support this new policy. Non-medical or cloth masks are permitted (and encouraged) for use when walking through the facility. When clinical or non-clinical staff are within six feet of any non-PUI patient, a medical mask is required. When clinical staff is within six feet of a COVID-19 pos - itive or PUI patient, all proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) guidelines are being followed, including use of a respirator, eye protection, gown and gloves. For more information, visit www.umms.org.