The Pri nce Ge orge’s Pos t

A C OMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FOR PRINCE GEORGE ’S COUNTY Since 1932

Vol. 83, No. 21 May 21 — May 27, 2015 Prince George’s County, Maryland Newspaper of Record Phone: 301-627-0900 25 cents

Maryland History Day Winners to Compete at National History Day 68 Students Advance; 82 Receive Special Awards A program of the Mary - By PRESS OFFICER MHC land Humanities Council (MHC) now in its 15th year, (Baltimore) — More than the statewide competition in - 600 talented middle and high volves nearly 23,000 students students, along with their at the school level, represent - proud parents and teachers, ing 18 counties and Balti - converged on the campus of more City. Students research the University of Maryland, topics that address the Na - Baltimore County on Satur - tional History Day theme and day, May 2, 2015 to compete participate in school and in the annual Maryland His - county competitions to qual - tory Day state contest. Rep - ify for the state contest. The resenting 10 counties and 2015 theme is “Leadership Baltimore City, 68 students and Legacy.” were selected to advance to Winners were chosen at the National History Day their district level for both competition. Additionally, 82 CAPITAL NEWS SERVICE PHOTO BY JAMES LEVIN students won special awards (From left) Technician Chris Blackistone, firefighter Daniel Seal and firefighter Amber Daugherty “rescue” a dummy from a at the contest. See WINNERS Page A 3 second floor window of a building being used for training exercises by the Prince George’s County Fire Department in Bowie, Md. on Wednesday, March 25, 2015. County Council Urges Governor Hogan to Release $20 Million Fire Department Provides In-Depth Slated for County Schools By PRESS OFFICER The crucial school funding, PG County Government which received overwhelming LBy BRoIAoN MkAR ROaN t ResDocnneud in eauth eTntic frire apro -infirei and rgescuing possible vic - From the heavy smoke to the bipartisan support in both Capital News Service tection gear, from the overalls tims trapped inside. The building mannequin weighing up to 185 In a joint letter to Maryland houses of the General Assembly to the helmet, media members was filled with thick, non-toxic pounds to portray victims, the Governor Larry Hogan, the during the 2015 legislative ses - BOWIE — Blinded by followed county firefighters as smoke that made seeing one’s drills simulated the most realis - Prince George’s County Coun - sion, will not require any tax or smoke and surrounded by Darth they embarked on training and own hands nearly impossible. tic conditions possible -- minus cil and County Executive fee increases, and is solely ded - Vader-like breathing noises, re - rescue drills at the vacant Mar - Some reporters were camped the extreme heat associated with Rushern L. Baker, III, strongly icated to education spending. porters stepped into the boots ket Place Mall in Bowie. inside the building with thermal actual fires, according to Bat - urge the Governor to release Council Chairman Mel of firefighters Wednesday with The training consisted of two imaging cameras to watch the talion 1 Chief Christian Wargo. $20 million in FY 2016 state- Franklin says continuing to the Prince George's County drills, each with the same objec - action while others helped lay appropriated funds supporting Fire/Emergency Medical Serv - tive of entering and clearing a out, unravel and guide the hose Prince George’s County’s ices Department. burning building, putting out the toward the simulated fire. See FIRE TRAINING Page A 6 125,000 public school students. See SCHOOLS Page A 3

Prince George’s County Executive Rushern L. Baker, III Delivers 5th Patuxent River Park and Clearwater Nature “State of the Economy” Address Center Certified as Maryland Green Centers to Business Leaders By NATE RABNER County Executive Baker’s speech, “Investing in Capital News Service Education: The Time is Now!” focuses on importance of investing in PGCPS in order to grow County's economy. GREENBELT, MD – Patux - ent River Park and Clearwater By PRESS OFFICER we don’t take ownership for in - Nature Center, both Prince PGCPS vesting in our children’s suc - George’s County Department of cess, who will? If we want to Parks and Recreation sites, were Upper Marlboro, MD - improve property values and recognized by the Maryland As - Prince George’s County Exec - bring more businesses here, this sociation of Environmental and utive Rushern L. Baker, III de - is what we must do. If we want Outdoor Education (MAEOE) as livered his 5th “State of the to grow and expand our com - 2015 Maryland Green Centers. Economy” address entitled “In - mercial tax base, this is what Patuxent River Park was vesting in Education: The Time we must do. If we want to be recertified while Clearwater is Now!” to business leaders the new economic engine of the Nature Center received first- during a breakfast hosted by State, this is what we must do. time certification. the Prince George's County And if we want the best for our Maryland Green Centers Economic Development Cor - children and the families of partner with local schools mod - poration and the Greater Prince Prince George’s County, this is elling sustainable school prac - George's Business Roundtable what we must do. Our County tices, providing resources and held at the Colony South Hotel is moving in the right direction. forming partnerships that posi - & Convention Center in Clin - But we must embrace this chal - tively impact students, teachers ton, MD. To watch the speech, lenge and lay the foundation for and the community. PHOTO COURTESY U.S. NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION please click here. Residents your children and this County “This recognition reiterates Canoers and kayakers enjoying an idyllic early fall afternoon on a quiet tree-lined stretch of are also encouraged to visit the for generations to come.” our endeavor to be a leader in the upper Patuxent River. Maryland, Upper Patuxent River. Investing in Education Home - As a follow-up to today’s sustainability efforts in the page on the Prince George’s “State of the Economy” ad - County,” said Kyle Lowe, Act - and to preserve green space for Patuxent River Park utilizes The top projects that Patuxent County website to learn more dress, tomorrow, County Exec - ing Division Chief of the Nat - future generations. The staffs rain barrels, rain gardens, energy River Park uses to promote green about this investment. utive Baker will participate in ural and Historic Resources Di - at Patuxent River Park and conservation products, a recy - practices are: its Teacher Watershed “Investing in the Prince the groundbreaking for a new vision. “Part of the mission of Clearwater Nature Center are cling program, habitat restora - Workshop; an American Indian vil - George’s County Public Dave and Buster's Restaurant The Maryland-National Capital setting an exceptional example tion and nesting boxes to en - Schools is what we must do to Park and Planning Commission in these areas with their amaz - hance the environment and to change our trajectory,” said is to educate the public on the ing public program offerings provide an example of being County Executive Baker. “If See ECONOMY Page A 3 importance of the environment and beautiful sites.” “green” to the community. See PATUXENT Page A 7

INSIDE A Look At What Passed The Baltimore Rising: Women Maryland Department of Movie Review: “Spy” Earth Talk Maryland Legislature And Leading at the Frontline of the Agriculture Aims to Connect Susan Cooper is an unassuming, Dear EarthTalk: What Didn’t Fight for Justice Farmers with Markets deskbound CIA analyst, and the un - Now that summer is coming, my The Maryland General Assem - In her 2014 State of Black America® The current Maryland’s Best logo sung hero behind the Agency's most neighbors will be firing up their back - bly proposed 2,248 pieces of leg - essay, Mayor Rawlings-Blake painted will remain available for use. All are dangerous missions. But when her yard fire pits again, and I’m wonder - islation during the 2015 legislative a bleak picture, noting that in Baltimore available in color and black and partner falls off the grid and another ing if the wood smoke drifting in my session. More than 650 bills made city, more than 1 in 5 African-American white. Farmers who wish to use any top agent is compromised, she vol - open windows is a health hazard for it to the governor’s desk, of which adult residents live in poverty, and 1 in of the logos will be asked to sign up unteers to go deep undercover to in - my family and if I have any standing Hogan signed 121 into law Tues - every 3 African-American children and with the free program at the Depart - filtrate the world of a deadly arms to require them to refrain? day morning. teens are also living in poverty. ment. Click here to sign up. dealer, and prevent a global disaster. — Mitch Brasky,Reno, NV Community , Page A3 Commentary , Page A4 Business , Page A5 Out on the Town , Page A6 Features , Page A7 A2 — May 21 — May 27, 2015 — The Prince George’s Post Towns and N EIGHBORS In and Around Morningside-Skyline by Mary McHale 301 735 3451 Neighborhood Events Skyline Citizens Association running for office or someone to Phil Eppard. is 45—still going strong who already holds one? Condolences to Alice Ward, Edwards Testifies in Support of Clean The Skyline Citizens Associa - I love the parade, and I’ll be of Skyline, on the death of her tion (SCA) was born Feb. 27, there, under the Baptist tree, brother Gustarivus Whitaker, Water Protection 1970 when about 100 residents of waving my flag.. But I wish the Greensboro, N.C., on April 13. Washington, D.C. – Con - subcommittee on several crit - the Skyline Subdivision, Andrews parade were longer and had Condolences to Lina Maralit, gresswoman Donna F. Edwards ical areas. Estates and Robin Hood Homes more music. If you know anyone of Camp Springs, on the death (MD-4) spoke today in the “The administration’s an - met in the multi-purpose room at who might be interested, call Su - of her brother Monsignor Jose House Rules Committee in op - swers have been that many of Skyline School and selected Do - san at 301-412-0135. Antonio “Jojo” Galvez, of the position to H.R. 1732, the Reg - these claims are simply false lores Steinhilber to be acting chair - Philippines, on March 13. ulatory Integrity Protection Act, and we have been assured most man of the Steering Committee. Pre-K slots and greenhouses and asked that her amendment of those issues will be ad - Skyline Elementary has full- Academia Charlie Tretler was named By - be considered on the House dressed in the final rule. day Pre-K slots open due to Kelvin Bennett, of Skyline, laws Chairman and, along with floor. H.R. 1732 would halt the “My amendment simply ad - county funding, starting with the is a junior at Montgomery Col - Gene Dunlap, Cecil Matthews and current Clean Water Protection dresses these concerns and upcoming school year. For infor - lege, majoring in special ed. Frank Robbins, tapped Arthur rulemaking process by requiring claims, saying that, if any of mation contact Mrs. Magness in Sam Mudd is graduating Zdobysz to draw up the bylaws. the Environmental Protection them prove to be true, then the the Skyline office, 301-817-0535. from St. Vincent Pallotti High They were ratified on May 1, 1970. Agency and the Army Corps of Secretary and the Administrator Also, the school has two unique School, in Laurel, and will at - Congresswoman The first SCA meeting was held Engineers to withdraw the pro - are prohibited from issuing any courtyards. One courtyard has a tend Salisbury University. He is Donna F. Edwards later in May at Skyline School. posed rule and restart the entire final rule that would bring about greenhouse in need of repair. It will the son of my daughter Sheila Dolores Steinhilber was process. Congresswoman Ed - these occurrences. be repaired and in use for the next and John Mudd of West Laurel. elected our first president, one wards’ amendment is intended terminations, what has “Instead of using a legisla - school session and beyond. If you Call me (301-735-3451) or of only two women to hold that to serve as a backstop by listing emerged is a hodgepodge of tive scalpel, my Republican would like to contribute plants or email ([email protected]) position. A complete list of those policy provisions that the Sec - ad hoc and inconsistent juris - colleagues have decided to use seeds, or purchase a $10.00 bag of with news of the graduate in early officers is unavailable, but retary and Administrator are dictional theories.’ a meat cleaver. In my amend - rubber mulch for the beautification, your family. some of them were: Navy Capt. prohibited from including in a ment, I have tried to address contact Mrs. Magness at the Sky - H.R. 1732 Raymond Perkins, Larry Reilly, final rule that are based on con - those concerns that I have line office, 301-817-0535. Longtime Skyline resident, “H.R. 1732 would halt the Sandra Pouncy, Maj. Patrick cerns expressed by opponents heard from my constituents and John Doss, dies current Clean Water rulemaking, Hayes, Jack Power and Jill John Robert Doss, 72, who re - of the rulemaking. interested parties. Yard Sale coming up June 6 and require the agencies to with - Power. I served for a year as cor - Clinton United Methodist tired after 38 years with the U.S. “Under my amendment, the Below are her remarks as pre - draw the proposed rule and responding secretary. Women’s Yard Sale will be held Postal Service, died April 20. He administration cannot expand pared for delivery: restart the rulemaking process. Mary McGrath was the editor Saturday, June 6, from 8 a.m. to was a longtime resident of Lu - the scope beyond those water “Thank you Chairman Ses - This is after one million public of the Skyline Newsletter, but 2 p.m. (set-up time, 6 to 8 a.m.). cente Avenue and a member of bodies covered prior to the de - sions, Ranking Member Slaugh - comments, a 208 day comment she soon moved away and I be - To reserve a table ($15), call 301- the Skyline Citizens Association. cisions of the U.S. Supreme ter, and members of the Rules period, and over 400 public came editor, and still am—for 868-1288. Clinton U.M. Church He was born in Kentucky and Court in those two cases, and it Committee. As a member of the hearings. On April 6, 2015, the almost 45 years now. is located at 10700 Brandywine grew up in Cross Plains, Tenn.; cannot be inconsistent with Jus - Transportation and Infrastructure EPA and the Corps forwarded a The association was first Road, in Clinton. All proceeds graduated from Bransford H.S. tices Scalia’s and Kennedy’s Committee, I will detail Demo - revised rule based on concerns named the Parkway Citizens As - will go towards helping women and West Kentucky Junior Col - judicial opinions in Rapanos. cratic opposition to the so-called expressed to the Office of Man - sociation, but in February 1971 and children in their community. lege. He served with the U.S. “In addition to that, they Regulatory Integrity Protection agement and Budget for review. we voted to change it to Skyline By the way, rain date is June 27. Army. John was a member of can’t increase the regulation Act and explain why I have of - “The bill would only force Citizens Association. SCA is still Evangel Cathedral in Upper of ditches. They can’t elimi - Neighbors fered an amendment. the agencies to meet with the going strong, with Stanley Marlboro. Survivors include his nate any historical statutory or Happy 40th anniversary to Al - “My colleagues, this rule - same group of stakeholders and Holmes as a terrific president. We wife Ann; daughter LeaTrice regulatory exemptions for lentown Press, which has printed making is about clean water. talk about the same issues that have 45. Will we make it to 50? Doss, and grandchildren Josiah agriculture, which do not exist all sorts of things—and done a Thanks to the Clean Water Act they have already discussed Amir and Malachi Robert. under the 2003 & 2008 docu - good job of it—since 1975. To (CWA), billions of pounds of several times over the last four - 4th of July Parade needs ments. There are questions get your printing and copying pollution have been kept out teen years since the first Court marchers Milestones about ditches under the 2003 I remember the glorious days done, go by 6318 Old Branch Av - Happy birthday to Crystal of our rivers and the number decision. This rulemaking has & 2008 guidance, and they are of the VFW Parade down Suit - enue or call 301-449-7660. Foster, Juanita Hood, David of waters that meet clean water been more than a decade in the interpreted differently in vari - land Road—the drum & bugle Despite nippy weather, the Sky - Sanford and Linda Holsonbake, goals nationwide has doubled development. Moreover, this ous parts of the country. corps, the Morningside Sports - line Citizen’s Association’s Flea May 22; Ricci Lee Jr., Betty – with direct benefits for bill will further perpetuate the “To me, the federal govern - man’s float, the school bands, Market on April 26 on the Morn - Call, L. Dorothy Jones, Nancy drinking water, public health, current regulatory confusion ment is using its authority to do the little cars, the Ladies Auxil - ingside VFD parking lot went very Sawyer, Dory Babecki and recreation, and wildlife. This that leads to unnecessary costs the right thing by providing cer - iary marchers, the bandstand. well. Two highlights—Mickey D’s Chester Lanehart IV, May 23; is especially true for Maryland and delays, which has been tainty to the regulated commu - Now, the Morningside Recre - music and Ashby Harmon’s fried Edna Lucas and Harry Messer, within the five-state Chesa - the subject of much criticism nity and still protecting human ation Council is carrying on the fish (which sold out). There’re May 24; Dennis Cook, Norma peake Bay Watershed and sev - from all stakeholders, and will health and our environment. tradition. They do a good job, plans to do it again in September. Edwards and my son John eral of its tributaries, including leave many of our nation’s wa - “However, as a fall back and but there are simply not the Amber Stokes was chosen McHale who turns 60 on May the Anacostia, Patuxent, Po - ters unprotected. assurance to the regulated com - marchers there used to be. Can May Queen for the annual Crown - 25; Christopher Nichols, May tomac, and Severn Rivers that “This week we will also vote munity, I urge the Committee to you think of a group—or an in - ing of the Blessed Mother at St. 26; Gary Lewis, Sr. and Steven on the Energy and Water appro - flow through the Fourth Con - make my amendment in order dividual—that would like to be Philip’s Church on Mother’s Day. Busky, May 27. priations bill, which contains a gressional District. This that will include clear legislative in a parade? A vintage car or mo - Prayers and get-well-soon Happy anniversary to John Chesapeake Bay Watershed is policy rider explicitly prohibit - torcycle? A clown? Someone wishes to Charles E. Moore and and Nichole Barbour on May 25. ing the Army Corps of Engineer - restrictions on the final rulemak - fed by 110,000 miles of ing addressing the range of con - creeks, rivers, and streams. ing (Corps) from spending any money to develop the very same cerns that have been expressed All Gave Some … 70% of Marylanders get their by stakeholders; though the EPA drinking water from sources new Clean Water rule that this bill tells the Corps to write. has made clear in testimony be - Some Gave All that rely on headwater or sea - fore our Committee, other com - sonal streams. Nationwide, From my understanding the In - Remember Them terior appropriations bill is ex - mittees of the House, and earlier 117 million get their water this year, in a joint hearing with This Memorial Day from these waters. pected to contain a similar rider for the Environmental Protection the Senate. Nonetheless, I offer May 25, 2015 “However, due to two this amendment as a backstop Supreme Court decisions, there Agency (EPA). Republicans try to make it sound as if all they in the unlikely event that anyone is widespread confusion as to would think differently about what falls under the protection want is for EPA and the Corps Brandywine-Aquasco to develop rules the right way, regulating streams, ditches, of the CWA. That is why this and farmland.” by Audrey Johnson 301 888 2153 Administration is working to fi - but it’s clear that what they really want is to stop these agencies nalize their joint proposed rule Statement From Prince CASINO ACTION selling your product. All tables Pastor presents “The Karate from doing their job at all – no clarifying the limits of federal George’s County Public Come and join us again for are $15.00. You must have a Kid” starring Jaden Smith, Taraji Rules – no clean water. jurisdiction under the Act. This Schools CEO Kevin M. Casino Time with St. Philip’s table, no spaces will be allowed P. Henson and Jackie Chan. The “Congress must allow the is precisely what the Supreme Maxwell on FY16 Budget Church to Harrington Raceway without one. So come and enjoy movie teaches us many life ap - Administration to finish its work and Midway Casino Harrington, food, folks and fun. All proceeds plications. The most important Court instructed the federal Proposal government to do – 14 years and publish the final rule. If we UPPER MARLBORO, Delaware on Sunday, June 14, go towards helping women and apparent application is to under - don’t like the result, we have 2015. Fun package includes a children in the community. To stand who we are. ago with the 2001 SWANCC MD – Prince George’s County decision and subsequently in ample authority to fix it. Con - Public Schools is extremely $10.00 rebate plus a full Buffet reserve a table please call (301) Join family and friends for gress has the ability to review the 2006 Rapanos case. grateful to County Executive Meal, 50/50, and Ole School 868-1288 Clinton United a night of wonderful fellow - “major” rules issued by federal “Along with those two Rushern Baker, III for his bold Music. Donation is $40/00. Methodist Church, Pastor ship. Let’s Talk: 5:00 PM, agencies before the rules take Supreme Court decisions, the commitment to invest in public There will be absolutely no re - Dorothea Belt Stroman. Show Time: 6:00 PM on May effect. In fact, the Congressional Bush administration followed education in Prince George’s funds. You are welcome to bring 23, 2015 at The Family Life Review Act allows Congress to the exact same process in is - County. We are a district on your own spirits. Benefit: St. CONGRATULATIONS Center 15601 Brooks Church actually disapprove new rules, Dr. Patricia Turner Mitchell suing two guidance documents the rise and this historic fund - Philip’s Church Bull Roast. Road , Upper Marlboro, Mary - resulting in the rules having no the daughter of Ruth Turner re - in 2003 and 2008 which, coin - ing proposal puts us on a Bus will leave Park-N-Ride, land. Hot dog, popcorn and force or effect. ceived the University of San cidentally, remain in force to - rapid path to becoming a Clinton, Maryland at 10:30 AM drink with each donation of “If H.R. 1732 were to be en - Francisco Ignatian Service day. In fact, it is these two top-10 school district in Mary - and St. Philip’s Church at 11:00 only $8.00. Five years and un - acted, it would only ensure that Award Tuesday, May 5, 2015 at Bush-era guidance documents land by the year 2020. It means AM. Bus returns at approximately der FREE. Contact Wanda the confusion continues and that the 39th Annual USF Service that have compounded the con - we can dramatically move the 7:00 PM. For tickets contact Contee 301-404-6513, Valerie these sources of drinking water and Merit Awards ceremony. fusion, uncertainty, and in - needle in implementing our Doretha Savoy (301) 233-3136, Pinkney 240-350-5105, Jina remain a serious risk to the pub - This award honors a faculty creased compliance costs faced comprehensive strategic plan Ernest Douglas (301) 888-1937 or Jackson 301-787-4422 or Deb - lic health. That is why I urge my member whose service to stu - by our constituents – oppo - that provides a high-quality Shirley Cleaves (302) 690-4260. orah Proctor 301-275-2544 to colleagues to oppose this bill. dents, the University and the purchase tickets. nents and proponents – who education at every school for YARD SALE community at large constitutes just want clarity. Edwards Amendment every child. The benefits of Clinton United Methodist an exceptional contribution. This ARITHMETICKLES “But don’t take my word on “Mr. Chairman, to be fair, this investment are signifi - Women’s will have a Yard Sale award is in recognition of cre - Arithmetickles is a Math this. Let me quote from some of several of my own con - cantly multiplied for taxpayers on June 6, 2015 (Rain Date is ativity and commitment to the Game Show moving Math off the comments made in opposi - stituents have expressed con - because it creates generations June 27, 2015) from 8:00 AM to realization of the religious and the page and onto the stage. The tion to the Bush-era guidance. cern with the substance of the of future residents who con - 2:00 PM. (Set up time is 6:00 AM moral legacy of St. Iganatius. game show provides Interactive According to the American proposed rule. I have listened tribute to our economy, our to 8:00 AM) at 10700 Brandy - Skits, Comedy and 100% audi - Farm Bureau Federation: to their concerns, and I have workforce and ultimately raise wine Road Clinton, Maryland. MOVIE NIGHT ence participation. Visit ‘With no clear regulatory pressed the Agency witnesses the wealth and value of Prince Come and enjoy a commu - New Hope Fellowship U. M. www.artsonstage.org or call 410- definitions to guide their de - who have appeared before our George’s County. nity event, by either shopping or Parish, Rev. Constance Smith, 252-8717 for more information. May 21 — May 27, 2015 — The Prince George’s Post —A 3 COMMUNITY

Practical Money Skills A Look At What Passed The Maryland By Jason Alderman

Legislaturew eAbsitesn the sdtate’ s W6 percenht salaes tto vDote. Tihde bilnl doe’s nt ot require Asset forfeiture: A widely Improving Millennials' By ANJALI SHASTRY tax on the service charge collected Capital News Service them to have completed any pro - criticized state police practice of when people book through their bation or parole requirements be - confiscating property allegedly Financial Literacy with ANNAPOLIS -- The Mary - service. Proponents of the bill say fore reinstating their right to vote. connected to a crime is now be - land General Assembly proposed it fills a “loophole” that excluded ing regulated, so that it restricts Transgender birth certifi - 2,248 pieces of legislation during these websites, but opponents say the state’s ability to keep the Mobile Technology the 2015 legislative session. cates: Transgender residents of it is a new tax. property and requires them to re - The 2015 Financial More than 650 bills made it to Maryland would be able to get port what they seize. Literacy Summit 2015, the governor’s desk, of which Marijuana paraphernalia: new, unamended birth certifi - (http://www.practical - Marijuana was decriminalized in cates to reflect the gender they Hogan signed 121 into law Tues - Film tax credit: “House of moneyskills.com/summit2015/) 2014, but paraphernalia, like identify with. The bill does not day morning. Cards” would receive an entice - held April 15 in Chicago and pipes, were not at the time. This require them to have had sex-re - ment to stay in Maryland under co-hosted by Visa Inc. and the bill follows up on the previous assignment surgery. WHAT PASSED: Federal Reserve Bank of year’s law by decriminalizing a new bill that would allow Fracking moratorium: Hy - The maximum Chicago, focused on how mo - the paraphernalia. Speed limits: shows and films to continue re - draulic fracturing for natural gas, state highway speed would be bile technology might improve ceiving a tax credit for filming more commonly known as frack - Public Information Act: raised from 65 mph to 70 mph millennials' learning, savings in the state. ing, will be restricted under a Two bills would allow citizens for certain highways. and investing behavior in two-year moratorium so state of - to file complaints with a com - the future. ficials can continue to study the pliance board if they feel state “Yellow alerts”: State police WHAT DIDN’T PASS: : A bill for A recent FICO study said effects of fracking on Mary - agencies are not being fair to would be able to issue “yellow Death with dignity millennials, the demographic land’s environment. their public information requests, alerts” to find a hit-and-run driver terminally ill patients with a born between 1980 and 2000, not only represent the largest and would require state agencies who seriously injures someone. prognosis of death within six The group of individuals using mobile banking applications, “Rain tax” repeal: to post a list of public informa - months who wanted a doctor to stormwater remediation fee, Powdered alcohol: The leg - but also the biggest cohort partaking in Internet browsing, tion officers on their websites. help them end their lives did not dubbed the “rain tax,” charged islature voted to ban powdered emailing, searching, social networking and news consump - pass the legislature. homeowners to help fund man - alcohol, which can be mixed with tion on a smartphone or tablet, bypassing desktop machines State election public financ - dated federal programs to ad - People would be able to vol - water to produce an alcoholic Small busi - entirely. By comparison, only 5 percent of 35-54 year-olds ing: Paid sick leave: dress urban runoff. The bill re - untarily check off on their in - beverage, amid fears of people and 3 percent of those 55 years and older are using mobile nesses would be mandated to give peals the counties’ requirement come tax returns to give money abusing it and overdosing. devices exclusively. their employees one hour of sick to collect such a fee and instead to a public campaign financing Ridesharing compa - leave for every 30 hours worked. The Summit audience heard particularly eye-opening Uber: allows them to find another fund for governor. nies like Uber and Lyft will be insights from a panel on how early education and mobile method of gathering the money. Tax relief to small busi - After a allowed to continue doing their technology applications can help build future generations' Second Chance Act: nesses: The governor intro - Low-in - own background checks and ve - financial literacy. While online gaming (http://practical - Charter schools: period of no criminal activity duced a bill to create a tax ex - come students and students with and having paid their dues to so - hicle safety inspections with less moneyskills.com/games/) is showing particular success in emption on the first $10,000 of disabilities or limited English pro - ciety, people with nonviolent government oversight than tra - training grade- and high-school age students in financial personal property for small fundamentals, panelists suggested that the broader solution ficiency are to be given a greater criminal records can shield cer - ditional taxi companies. chance to enroll in a charter tain offenses from potential em - business owners. will depend on national educational policy and a broader “Anayah’s Law”: The De - school through a lottery process. ployers. The law would keep the understanding about young adults and their financial needs. partment of Social Services Police accountability: The bill also provides for a sibling offense on the record for law en - would have the discretion to ask Dozens of bills addressing police Amando M. Tetangco, Jr., governor of Bangko Sentral of a currently enrolled charter forcement officers to view. the courts to prevent a child from accountability were introduced ng Pilipinas, the central bank of the Philippines, told the school student to join the school. audience that young Filipino adults are “struggling more Ex-felon voting rights: After being returned to their parents if at the beginning of the session. than their older counterpart groups with regard to budgeting” Travel tax: The state would being released from prison, con - there is evidence the child is be - Many of them received unfavor - and retirement planning, but he said he is still optimistic: “I be able to charge third-party travel victed felons would be allowed ing abused at home. able reports from the legislature. believe there are certain characteristics of millenials that Directors. And the Greater sidering for the new FBI head - in a holistic manner we can provide opportunities to build [their financial capabilities]. Economy from A1 They have a desire for change.” Such change, he said, should Prince George’s Business quarters. Last year we broke make a difference. The TNI be driven by data and policy should be made personal and moving to Prince George's Roundtable. I also want to say ground on the new Maryland model has proven to be sustain - tied to technology solutions embraced by younger citizens. County which will be located at thank you for supporting so Department of Housing and able and effective. Ritchie Station Marketplace in many of my administration’s Community Development. Next We have reduced crime, Panelist Jason Young, CEO and Co-Founder of Mind - Capitol Heights, MD at 10:30 initiatives. I appreciate your month we will be cutting the rib - which is helping to bolster our Blown Labs, an Oakland, California-based software devel - a.m. and will be visiting Eleanor commitment to making this bon to celebrate the opening of housing market. Housing sales oper behind the Thrive 'n' Shine personal finance game app Roosevelt High School at 12:00 County the best it can be. the first state government agency and property values are improv - for teens and young adults, said mobile technology will p.m. for the 31st Annual Sci - President Barack Obama in Prince George’s County. A ing and we expect them to get bridge the gap between financial literacy and a lifetime of ence Fair and Research said, “Change will not come if project that is jumpstarting de - better. We are bringing in new successful financial decision making. “Eighty to 90 percent Practicum Symposium for we wait for some other person velopment in New Carrollton. development and we continue of U.S. teens have smart devices. That's huge, but the im - STEM students. or some other time. We are the In 4 years we've reduced to chalk up wins like our first portant thing to understand is that these aren't just things Text of County Executive ones we’ve been waiting for. We crime 36%, and we are down Whole Foods, Dave and they use. They're a way of life.” State of the Economy are the change we seek.” He is 21% from last year. We have Busters, Harris Teeter, as well Developing a stronger connection between financial lit - so right. And for the last 4 years, shown that our ability to con - as new hotels. Companies like eracy education and mobile technology could be beneficial Investing in Education: The change has been this county’s tinue to reduce crime is no Bozzuto and Thompson Creek for global educators and policymakers trying to improve Time is Now April 16, 2015 mantra and together, we have fluke. Through programs like Windows electing to stay in the spending, saving and investing knowledge for future gener - “Good morning! It is another made great strides moving closer our Transforming Neighbor - County and expand their oper - ations. In January, the Organization for Economic Coopera - great day in Prince George’s and closer to our destiny. hoods Initiative (TNI), we are tion and Development (OECD) released a first-time global County. I want to say thank you Today we can boast of having proving that by working with financial literacy study (http://www.oecd.org/pisa/keyfind - to the EDC, and its Board of 2 of the 3 sites the GSA is con - communities to solve problems See ECONOMY Page A 5 ings/pisa-2012-results-volume-vi.htm) that revealed that U.S. students ranked between eighth and twelfth place among all 18 participating countries in overall literacy skills. in Bottom line: Focusing on the way under-35 consumers ADVERTISE ! The Prince George’s Post use smartphones and tablets might provide a way for educa - tors, financial services companies and policymakers to nar - Call Today 301 627 0900 row the financial literacy gap. Special Prize Winners: SPECIAL PRIZE IN MILITARY Winners from A1 important budgetary and SPECIAL PRIZE IN AFRICAN HISTORY, sponsored by the Historical Schools from A1 policy decisions relative to individual and group efforts from five AMERICAN HISTORY, sponsored by Miniatures Gaming Society: withhold the funding will have the County’s priorities that different categories—research papers, the Maryland Commission on African Students: Calder Baldwin-Bott, consequences. “The failure to will continue the prosperity exhibits, performances, websites, and American History and Culture: Elias Herrera, Chima Nwaogbe release $68 million in Geo - and growth of Prince documentaries. First and second place Student: Kyra Greenfield, Catherine Topic: General Patton: Ol’ Blood and Guts graphical Cost of Education George’s County and there - winners will represent Maryland at the Mbuashu Ndip Category: Documentary Index (GCEI) funds, set aside fore the State.” Kenneth E. Behring National History Topic: Fannie Lou Hamer: School: Greenbelt Middle School by the General Assembly in Stressing that Prince Day competition June 14–18, 2015 at A Passion for Voting County: Prince George’s County the state budget to support George’s County is well posi - the University of Maryland, College Category: Exhibit Maryland’s costliest school tioned as an economic engine Park. Students from Allegany, Anne Teacher: Victoria Patch systems, will result in signifi - in Maryland, the letter refer - Arundel, Baltimore, Calvert, Garrett, School: Greenbelt Middle School The region’s teachers were also recog - cant cuts in desperately needed ences the County’s 2015 Leg - Harford, Howard, Frederick, Mont - County: Prince George’s County nized for their excellence in education: programs for our school chil - islative Agenda focusing pri - gomery, and Prince George’s counties Teacher: Christina Doepel Jessy Feinberg, of Northwestern High dren and increased taxes on marily on safeguarding the and Baltimore City will represent Mary - School in Prince George’s County was working families.” County’s budget priorities; land at the national contest. THE JUDGES JAMES AND presented with a District Teacher Award. The joint letter to Governor specifically, securing previ - CONSTANTINE KIT SFEKAS AWARD A complete list of advancers, special Hogan also addresses the re - ously committed State funding Prince George’s County Results Projects FOR LAW AND SOCIETY, sponsored prize winners, and teacher awards is lease of $15 million in ap - for the Regional Medical Cen - Advancing to National History Day: by Honorable Stephen J. and Dr. available at www.mdhc.org. Maryland proved operating funds for the ter, protecting critical K-12 Students: Aaliyah Beckles, Maya McAfee Elizabeth Sfekas: History Day is made possible with gen - erous support from the Maryland State Dimensions Healthcare sys - funding including the GCEI Topic: Helen Keller: A Fight for a World Student: Kaylee Guadron Department of Education, the National tem as part of the implemen - and school construction dol - Without Sound and Sight Topic: The First Empress Endowment for the Humanities, and The tation of the new Regional lars, protecting transportation Category: Exhibit Category: Website Medical Center, and the need projects like the Purple Line Abell Foundation. Columbia Gas of School: Accokeek Academy School: Northwestern High School for forward movement on the that provide infrastructure in - Maryland, Whiting-Turner, and Purple Line. vestments and spur economic County: Prince George’s County County: Prince George’s County Ziger/Snead Architects sponsored specific “We look forward to your development by expanding the Teacher: Nina Huff Teacher: Jessy Feinberg award categories. Student: Lydia Waring positive determination on commercial tax base. The Maryland Humanities Council is a statewide, educational, nonprofit organization. Topic: Mother Jones The Maryland Humanities Council creates and supports educational experiences in the Category: Documentary humanities that inspire all Marylanders to embrace lifelong learning, exchange ideas Proudly Serving School: Accokeek Academy openly, and enrich their communities. For more information, visit www.mdhc.org. The County: Prince George’s County Maryland Humanities Council is supported in part by the National Endowment for the Prince George’s County Since 1932 Teacher: Nina Huff Humanities, the State of Maryland, and The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation. A4 — May 21 — May 27, 2015 — The Prince George’s Post COMMENTARY

Port Discovery Children’s Museum Benjamin L. Cardin United States Senator for Maryland

Cardin, Mikulski, Delaney Lead Congressional Honors for Warren Weinstein and Urge Greater Support for Families of American Citizens Held Hostage Abroad WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin and and life’s work,” said Senator Ben Cardin, Ranking Congressman John Delaney have introduced reso - Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. lutions with Senator Barbara A. Mikulski (All D- “As we grieve the loss of Dr. Weinstein, we come Md.) to honor the memory of Dr. Warren Weinstein, together to seek answers for his death and justice for a Marylander who died while being held hostage by his years in captivity. We also commit ourselves to Open to the Public al-Qaeda in Pakistan. His death, caused by an Amer - ensuring better safeguards for the men and women PORT DISCOVERY CHILDREN’S MUSEUM ican strike on an al-Qaeda target, was a personal loss who work on behalf of our nation to relieve suffering Located in Baltimore Maryland’s Inner Harbor on the site of Baltimore’s Historic Fishmarket Building, adjacent for Cardin, Mikulski and Delaney, who all worked and empower local peoples around the world, and to Power Plant Live! at 35 Market Place, Baltimore, MD 21202. Port Discovery offers three floors of interac - tirelessly to bring their constituent back to his family greater support for their families.” tive, educational exhibits and ever-changing programs for children ages birth through 10. Toddle and crawl through Tot Trails. Get healthy and fit in Kick It Up!. Splish splash in Wonders of Water. Shop and pump gas at in Rockville. “Dr. Warren Weinstein dedicated his life to im - the Royal Farms Convenience Store and Fill’er Up Station. Cook and serve food in Tiny’s Diner or climb and The Cardin-Mikulski resolution (S. Res. 169), proving the conditions of others all throughout the slide through KidWorks, a 3-story urban treehouse. General Admission is $14.50 for ages 2 and up, and mem - which passed the Senate by unanimous consent, and world and his legacy will remain with us,” Senator bers and children younger than two years are FREE. Please call for hours of operation, 410.727.8120. Delaney resolution (H.Res. 236) in the House of Mikulski said. “I am proud to join my colleagues in Representatives both express the condolences of the introducing this resolution commemorating the life Congress to the family of Dr. Warren Weinstein, and and work of Dr. Weinstein. We must also remember, commemorate his life and work as a humanitarian, for the Weinstein family this ordeal is not over. They teacher, public servant and loving family man. The have been brave beyond measure and now they de - lawmakers salute Dr. Weinstein for his commitment serve our continued support.” to humanitarian development work in challenging “Dr. Warren Weinstein was a scholar and a hu - Child Watch and dangerous circumstances and “calls on the United manitarian who served his country and was com - by Marion Wright Edelman States to make the return of all United States citizens mitted to building a better world. Although Warren held captive abroad, regardless of their different cir - was tragically taken from us, he will never be for - cumstances, a top priority and provide a coordinated gotten,” said Congressman Delaney. “It is heart - and consistent approach to supporting hostages and breaking that this generous man who served others their families.” was held by terrorists for the final years of his life. All in the Family “Warren Weinstein has left a legacy of altruism, I am proud to work with Senator Mikulski and Sen - compassion and service that stands in great contrast ator Cardin to bring forward this resolution express - “My mother was doing drugs, port throughout childhood and that you were ready, that you to the terrorists who ripped him away from his family ing condolences to the Weinstein family.” specifically cocaine, crack co - Britiny flourished in her care. were ready to be a mom, that caine “ I almost died. They said Despite doctors’ concerns when you’re going to be a good mom, that I was either going to be deaf she was born as a drug addicted that you’re not going to use or retarded or I wasn’t going to child, Britiny was resilient and drugs anymore, and that I could survive past childhood or infancy became a straight-A student who go.’” Britiny’s mother was fi - Marc Morial, President and CEO because there were so many loved school from the begin - nally ready to step in, regain chemicals in my system.” ning. Britiny’s grandmother was custody, and learn how to be the National Urban League her rock even while struggling parent her daughter needed and The odds were stacked with the autoimmune disease lu - deserved. Today Britiny is a against Britiny Lee before she pus, which got worse as Britiny high school senior about to was born. Her mother was ad - got older. When she was 8 years graduate from Cleveland’s John dicted to drugs, like Britiny’s old her grandmother suffered a Hay School of Science and Baltimore Rising: Women Leading at the grandfather and many others in seizure when they were home Medicine and dreams of becom - their poverty-stricken Cleveland alone together and Britiny had ing a cardiac surgeon. She re - Frontline of the Fight for Justice neighborhood. Britiny’s mother to call 911 and ride in the am - cently received a Beat the “Wherever there has been struggle, black Like any major American city, Baltimore has used drugs throughout her preg - bulance with her grandmother to Odds® scholarship from Chil - women have been identified with that struggle. ” its assets and its challenges. Its mayor, Stephanie nancy and went to prison for a the hospital. dren’s Defense Fund-Ohio. She – Ella Baker, “The Black Woman in the Civil Rawlings-Blake, has been at the frontline, grap - year just after Britiny’s birth. As From then on she was terri - says of her beloved grand - Rights Struggle,” 1969 pling with the deeply entrenched challenges of the a poor, Black “crack baby” with fied of losing her grandmother. mother, “She’s looking down on city left in her charge since replacing a former an addicted, incarcerated mother Britiny’s mother Felicia, who me. I’m sure she’s proud, and Marilyn Mosby was sworn into office as Mary - mayor, who resigned under charges of corruption, and an absent father, Britiny had come in and out of her life right now I just want to make land state’s attorney for Baltimore City in January then being elected to her first full term as mayor started life in danger. Being born throughout her childhood, was her even more proud. I want to of this year at the Baltimore War Memorial Plaza in 2011. She has been touched by the almost in - into an unstable poor family or struggling towards sobriety. show her that she didn’t fight building. Before unseating the incumbent, Gregg escapable violence that stems from these challenges to a single, teen, incarcerated, or Nine months after Felicia be - for me for nothing.” Bernstein, for the job, the 35-year-old had never when in 2002, she found her brother covered in absent parent are all known risk came sober, when Britiny was Britiny’s grandmother was held an elected office. blood and nearly decapitated by a sword that was factors in America’s Cradle to 10 years old, her grandmother one of the many caregivers rais - Five months later, the city’s newly-minted, top used during a carjacking in front of her house. Prison Pipeline® crisis. The dis - died. Felicia remembers the ing children in “kinship care” or prosecutor—the youngest chief prosecutor in any In her 2014 State of Black America® essay, Mayor advantages millions of poor chil - moving moment: “[My mother] “GrandFamilies”—headed by major American city—returned to the steps of the Rawlings-Blake painted a bleak picture, noting that in dren and children of color face held my hand and she told me, grandparents or other relatives War Memorial Plaza last Friday to announce Baltimore city, more than 1 in 5 African-American from birth along the continuum ‘Licia, I want to go home.’ And who step in when parents are un - charges, including murder, manslaughter and as - adult residents live in poverty, and 1 in every 3 African- to and through adulthood— I thought that she meant go able to do so. Sometimes a child sault, against six police officers in the unwarranted American children and teens are also living in poverty. which can include no or inade - home, like put her in the car and is removed from parents’ care death of Freddie Gray—simultaneously emerging She warned, “Poverty is a deep-rooted ill, permeated quate prenatal and health care; take her home. No. She was say - by the state and placed with rel - into the national spotlight as an advocate for those with inequity, and it will take a focused, concerted as - no or little quality early child - ing she was tired and she was atives in foster care; in other demanding police accountability and an adversary sault on all fronts to excise it. We must think outside hood education and enrichment; ready to go home to Glory . . . for those who would protect the status quo. the box, and be bold as we confront the challenges child abuse and neglect; failing She looked at me in my eyes, On the night of her swearing in, Mosby was that lie in our path. I am committed to the fight.” schools; grade retention, suspen - and she said, ‘And God told me See WATCH, Page A 12 joined by a host of dignitaries, including her hus - Mayor Rawlings-Blake—the daughter of the leg - sion, and expulsion; question - band, Baltimore City councilman Nick Mosby— endary Howard “Pete” Rawlings, the first African able special education place - who represents the West Baltimore area that has American to become chair of the Appropriations Com - ments; dropping out of school; The Prince George’s Post been the backdrop to the protests over Gray’s mittee in the Maryland House of Delegates—has made unaddressed mental health prob - death—along with her two daughters. Baltimore her name on the national stage. She is only one of two lems; violent drug infested The Prince George’s Post Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake also sat among Black female mayors of the 100 largest cities in the neighborhoods; and dispropor - P.O. Box 1001 15207 Marlboro Pike the evening’s guests and, in a speech, advised country. She currently serves as secretary of the Dem - tionate involvement in the child Upper Marlboro, MD 20772-3151 Mosby that, “Public service is not just a job, it’s a ocratic National Committee and is vice president of welfare and juvenile justice sys - Phone 301-627-0900 Legal Fax • 301-627-6260 calling and it is a privilege.” the U.S. Conference of Mayors. tems—cumulate and converge email: [email protected] Mosby’s calling to public service was born of But she is grabbing our attention today, not for her and funnel so many poor chil - tragedy and tradition. When Mosby was 14, her impressive resume, but for her unflagging commitment dren of color into a pipeline and Contents © 2015, The Prince George’s Post 17-year-old cousin was mistaken for a drug dealer to “the fight” in Baltimore for equality and justice. As trajectory that too often leads to and shot and killed near her home. She often cred - she promised in a recent press conference, “As mayor, marginalized lives, imprison - Publisher Subscriptions/Legals Legusta Floyd Liz Brandenstein its her cousin’s murder as the reason why she de - I will be relentless in changing the culture of the police ment, and premature death. En - Senior Editor cided to become a prosecutor. department to ensure that everyone in our city is treated tering the child welfare system General Manager/ Legusta Floyd She also comes from a five-generation long equally under the law.” would have been still another Legal Advertising Manager Brenda Boice Editor line of law enforcement officials. Both of her par - Now that the six officers involved in the death of risk factor for baby Britiny but Michal W. Frangia ents, an aunt, four uncles and her grandfather— Freddie Gray have been charged, the prosecutor’s of - she was lucky. Legal Advertising Assistant Web Manager who was a founding member of the first associa - fice will present its case to a city grand jury that will That was where Britiny’s Robin Boerckel Kyler Quesenberry tion of Black police officers in her hometown of consider the charges and decide whether to indict. At grandmother stepped in who al - Massachusetts—were police officers. the same time, the Department of Justice—now being ready had custody of Britiny’s Prince George’s County, Md. Member National Newspaper Publishers Association, Growing up in a family of cops, Mosby knows the led by another African-American woman, Loretta older brother and sister. She and the Maryland, Delaware, District of Columbia Press Association. good, good police officers can do in our communities. Lynch—is also conducting an investigation into the brought Britiny home too and The Prince George’s Post (ISSN 10532226) is published every Thursday by She indicted six police officers on Friday, not an entire case and into the Baltimore Police Department. Britiny says, “My grandmother the New Prince George’s Post Inc., 15207 Marlboro Pike, force. Her actions are not anti-cop; they are pro-police I applaud these women, and all women—and stepped up to the plate to raise Upper Marlboro, Md. 20772-3151. and law enforcement accountability. She assured the men—who are fighting for justice for Freddie and, us because she didn’t want us to Subscription rate: 25 cents per single copy; $15 per year; public—and the nation—that her administration is, by extension, for us. I applaud these leaders as they go into the foster care system.” $7.50 senior citizens and students; out of county add $1; out of state add $2. “committed to creating a fair and equitable justice claim their place in the pantheon of Black female Britiny’s grandmother didn’t Periodical postage paid at Southern Md. 20790. system for all. No matter what your occupation, your fighters who have traditionally played a key role in have a lot of money, but she was Postmaster, send address changes to Prince George’s Post, P.O. Box 1001, Upper Marlboro, Md. 20772-3151. age, your race, your color or your creed.” our nation’s struggle for equality and justice—for all. a stable source of love and sup - May 21 — May 27, 2015 — The Prince George’s Post —A 5 BUSINESS

The American Counseling Association's Maryland Department of Agriculture Aims Counseling Corner to Connect Farmers with Markets Revamped Maryland’s Best strives to make the connection between End-of-Year Tests Don't farms, stores clear program at the Department. Have To Be Stressful By PRESS OFFICER Click here to sign up. Office of the Lt. Governor Summer break is just around the corner, but most students “It is our hope that farmers still face one last hurdle -- the dreaded end-of-year tests. ANNAPOLIS, MD – Mary - see the value in using these logos Whether final course exams or mandated standardized tests, land Department of Agriculture on their produce boxes and in for many students these represent a lot of anxiety and stress. (MDA) Secretary Joe Barten - farm stands, and that grocery While big tests are never fun, there are ways to reduce felder announced that his agency store chains and other food dis - the anxiety associated with testing, and to help students have is revamping the state ag brand - tributors will ask to use the logos their best chance for scoring well. ing program, Maryland’s Best. for their Maryland products,” The program started in 2001 to said Secretary Bartenfelder. A starting point is simply to plan ahead. Final exams are connect consumers with local “There are tremendous opportu - never a surprise. Waiting until the last-minute to review and agricultural products. nities for our farmers to benefit cram for the test seldom generates much of an improvement MDA has created a family of from the growing consumer de - in grades. But last minute cramming will increase a student's Maryland’s Best logos, including mand for local agricultural prod - IMAGE COURTESY THE MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE stress levels and promote test anxiety, none of which im - a new version that adds the ucts. We need to do all we can likely to buy food labeled with MDA will complete its eval - proves grades. Instead, start studying early and spread it out words “Fresh” and “Local.” The at MDA to help our farmers cap - the Maryland’s Best logo. uation of Maryland’s Best this over a number of days. current Maryland’s Best logo ture those opportunities.” “We are stepping up our work summer and use that information Another great tip is simply to anticipate what is going to will remain available for use. All Preliminary results of an on - with this program to emphasize to further improve its strategies be covered on the test. No test will cover everything about a are available in color and black going evaluation of the Mary - to consumers that agricultural to connect farmers with market. subject or all the material taught over the year. Instead, the and white. Farmers who wish to land’s Best program by MDA products labeled with ‘Mary - The evaluation, conducted by student should review class notes and the text book, focusing use any of the logos will be show that 86 percent of in-state land’s Best’ are local,” said Sec - Chevy Chase based ag market - on areas that were emphasized. If a teacher passes out a asked to sign up with the free consumers surveyed are more retary Bartenfelder. “Every dol - ing consultant Mark Newman in - study guide, or holds reviews sessions, those are great road lar spent on local agricultural cludes surveys of consumers, maps to what's going to be tested. products contributes to the eco - farmers and food distributors. It It's also important to get in shape for testing. No, that nomic health of the community, also includes interviews with doesn't mean lifting weights or running ten miles. It means keeps our land in farming, and farmers and buyers. getting plenty of rest. It's only common sense that being helps to support a growing future Farmers, grocery stores, well rested makes you feel better and gives your brain a for Maryland agriculture.” restaurants and food distribu - better shot at remembering things. Previous research conducted tors who would like to use the In the same way, eating right can help improve test scores. by MDA has indicated that 78 Maryland’s Best logo and work The brain needs good nutrition to work at its best. Skipping percent of Marylanders are more with MDA to promote their breakfast, for example, has clearly been shown to impair likely to buy produce when it is Maryland products should con - brain function. Similarly, a diet loaded with high-sugar junk clearly labeled as having been tact MDA’s Marketing office, foods or overloaded on caffeine can also negatively affect IMAGE COURTESY THE MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE grown in the state. (410) 841-5779. test scores. Crashing from a sugar high isn't the path to residents, businesses and retail. to invest more in our schools is We are investing in programs better test taking. And someone who has used coffee, caf - Economy from A3 We cannot lose sight of the fact just throwing good money after such as: feinated soda or energy drinks to feel more alert is just as ations. Our major development that elevating our schools is bad. With the changes we made likely to feel jittery and nervous which will only make con - • College & Career Readiness- projects are moving forward paramount to our future success- in the leadership of our schools, centrating more difficult. $3 million and we continue to tout $6 bil - -it is an economic necessity. we are in a much better position Doing well on a test depends on planning, studying and lion dollars in development Former Labor Secretary to take on this very challenging • Digital Literacy - $6 million relaxing. Eat right, be rested, and review the likely test ma - projects that are working their Robert Reich said, “Over the task of catapulting our schools • Universal Pre-K - $2 million terial without rushing and cramming. At test time, take a way through the pipeline, rang - long term, the only way we're from the bottom to the top. You • Retention Pay of Education - few deep breaths, then calmly focus and the result will be ing from our $650 million Re - going to raise wages, grow the see, I understand that voters and $20 million less stress and better scores. gional Medical Center to the economy, and improve Ameri - business people like you are • Family and Community En - $1.2 billion, MGM Destination can competitiveness is by in - looking at several key factors gagement - $1 million Counseling Corner” is provided by the American Counseling Resort Casino. vesting in our people - espe - before you support a project or Association. Comments and questions to ACAcorner@counsel - But in order for us to con - cially their education.” initiative. I knew we had to This is a significant in - ing.org or visit the ACA website at www.counseling.org tinue this unprecedented Improving the quality of our show people that things have crease, but it is an investment growth, we must be BOLD, IN - schools is the key to helping us changed and our schools are we must make to secure our fu - NOVATIVE and WILLING to accelerate our recovery from the worth investing in. ture. It is the level of invest - take aggressive measures that recession. Without a strong Two years ago, we revamped ment that our neighbors have will ensure our economic future. school system, young families and strengthened our school been making for decades. This is why we made some hard in D.C. or the surrounding area board and added, new members When comparing ourselves Business Spotlight decisions in the FY 2016 pro - think twice about moving here. who brought extensive experi - to our neighbors in Mont - posed budget. No longer could Without a strong school system, ence and education in business, gomery, Fairfax, Alexandria or we dip into our reserves to re - it will be far more difficult for higher education, finance and Howard County, our local con - Prince George’s County Council solve revenue shortfall. In order us to be the economic engine teacher quality. We hired one of tribution to the total amount of to maintain our AAA bond rat - for the State of Maryland. the nation’s top superintendents, money spent on education is the Adopts Resolution in Support of ing, it was imperative that we Our children and our schools Dr. Maxwell, who is a son of lowest percentage in the region. Exelon-Pepco Holdings Merger propose cost cutting measures are important and we cannot Prince George’s County and In fact, we contribute about that will have longer term im - continue to kick their futures… who has worked in 3 school dis - 36% in County funds and the and Settlement pact on our expenses. our future…down the road like tricts in the state of Maryland. state contributes 57%. And So this year’s budget pro - an old can. I will not stand idly We changed the name of his po - Montgomery County con - By Press Officer poses employee furloughs and by and let us marginalize our - sition from superintendent to tributes 66% locally and the Prince George’s County Council layoffs in order to balance the selves or our children. If we CEO. Why? Because our state contributes 27%. The per - budget. In addition, we asked want to have one of the top schools are a major enterprise centages are similar throughout The Prince George’s County Council unanimously agencies to once again make schools systems in the state, we with a huge budget and count - the region. adopted Council Resolution 13-2015, on Tuesday, April 7, needed cuts. However, there are have to invest in them. We must less assets. I wanted a leader The fact of the matter is… 2015, legislation recommending the Maryland Public Serv - two areas we did not cut: Edu - believe that we can make it hap - who not only understood how we have been limiting our im - ice Commission approve the merger between Exelon Cor - cation and Public Safety. These pen. We must believe within our to educate children, but also un - provement for far too long and poration and Pepco Holdings, Inc., and support the Com - are two key areas that define hearts and souls that our schools derstood the business of running this is our opportunity to mission's adoption of the terms of a March 16, 2015 any jurisdiction. can move into top ten by 2020. a school system. change the course of things. It settlement agreement between the companies and Prince We have turned around crime Every day, real estate agents So for the past two years, is time to make the investments George’s County. and brought in major economic are trying to sell houses in the Dr. Maxwell, his leadership that will take us out of the eco - “We believe that our County and our constituents will development, but the one area County and their clients are ask - team and the Board, have been nomic policies of the 1970s and benefit from this merger and settlement,” said Council that continues to be our Achilles ing, “So how are the schools in assessing the state of our 80s and do what we must to do Chair Mel Franklin. “Exelon and Pepco have made com - heel is the perceived quality of this neighborhood?” I want the schools. They have imple - to position us for prosperity in mitments that will deliver a top performing utility, promote our public school system. While answer to be “The schools are mented programs and initia - the future. For 15 cents more… job creation in the county, help prepare our students for we have made some important excellent.” When your busi - tives that have helped us make we can dramatically change our advanced careers in the energy sector, assist low and mod - changes that have led to im - nesses are looking for strong progress. Elevating our teach - schools. For businesses, we are erate income residents who are struggling with their energy provements both in how our candidates to fill jobs, you ing expertise and now Prince asking you to make a signifi - bills, and position the County as a leader in the field of re - schools are run and how our chil - should not have to look any fur - George’s County has the third cant investment as well. You newable and distributive energy. Today's support resolu - dren perform, I am not satisfied ther than Prince George’s highest number of National too will contribute to this in - tion also includes requests for safeguards for utility with where we are at this point. County, because they are col - Board certified teachers in vestment through property, per - ratepayers and consideration for the undergrounding of Without a strong school system, lege and career ready. When our Maryland. Implemented cost sonal property and telecommu - existing utility facilities.” our property values will continue Economic Development team saving measures that have led nication taxes. Look, I understand that no “Pepco has been a partner with Prince George’s County to lag which will handicap our recruits corporations that are to over $70 million in savings. one wants to pay more in for many years,” added Council Vice-Chair Derrick L. Davis. ability to attract more business looking to move their headquar - Enrollment is up and continues taxes. I don’t either. But this “It was important for us to know that this merger will enable and commerce to the County. ters here or open an office; we to rise. We had a historic im - is what we must do to change Pepco to maintain its charitable contributions and local com - It is why we must do what must be able to proudly say, provement in graduation rates our trajectory. If we don’t take munity support for at least another 10 years. We are also our neighbors have done-- the “Our schools are great!” A last year and 9th grade promo - ownership for investing in our pleased to see the commitments made to employees, and to District, Arlington, Fairfax, and strong school system will create tions are up significantly. children’s success, who will? hire more union workers after the merger closes.” Montgomery counties --- to at - greater demand for office space But to really move the needle If we want to improve property The settlement, which is subject to the approval of the tract people and businesses. and homes. Education is Every - and position us among the top They demonstrated their com - one’s Business, and today, we ten school districts in the state, values and bring more busi - Maryland Public Service Commission, was filed by Exelon nesses here, this is what we and Pepco Holdings and signed by Prince George’s County, mitment to education by invest - ALL must realize that we have I knew it would require us to ing in their schools and their stu - to make our schools our top pri - make a significant investment. must do. If we want to grow Montgomery County, the National Consumer Law Center, and expand our commercial National Housing Trust, Maryland Affordable Housing Coali - dents. These are our competitors! ority. And that means increasing In the first year, this plan will This is a very wealthy region. 7 our investment in our children. require an investment of $133 tax base, this is what we must tion, the Housing Association of Nonprofit Developers and do. If we want to be the new a consortium of nine recreational trail advocacy organizations of the nation’s top 13 richest There has been a perception million. An investment that will led by the Mid-Atlantic Off-Road Enthusiasts (MORE). counties are all around us and that our schools are not well- impact All schools across we are competing with them for run and that my budget proposal the County. See ECONOMY Page A 7 A6 — May 21 — May 27, 2015 — The Prince George’s Post

OUT ON THE

ERIC D. SNIDER'S IN THE DARK TOWN The Edge of Sports Movie Review by DAVE ZIRIN “SPY ” A Police Story Unravels: How Did the SPY NYPD Break an NBA Player’s Leg? Grade: B+ R for language throughout, violence, and some sexual content including brief graphic nudity 1 hr., 57 min

Despite having almost literally the most generic title it could pos - sibly have, Spy is a dizzyingly funny espionage comedy, with a non-farcical, non-spoof plot that works on a straightforward level, too. With several very funny per - formances and some memorable dialogue, it’s almost beside the At the risk of stating the utterly obvious, most black men point that, oh yeah, it happens to and women who suffer physical violence at the hands of the star a woman. police aren’t millionaires. They don’t have lawyers on speed That woman is Melissa Mc - dial and lack the resources of a well-funded union leaping to Carthy, an unstoppable force of na - their defense. But most black men and women aren’t NBA ture who, unlike most forces of na - ROTTENTOMATOES Susan Cooper (Melissa McCarthy) is an unassuming, deskbound CIA analyst, and the unsung players. In other words, they aren’t Thabo Sefolosha. The At - ture, has great comic timing. hero behind the Agency's most dangerous missions. But when her partner (Jude Law) falls off lanta Hawks guard will now miss the playoffs after an en - Brassy, physical, and always com - the grid and another top agent (Jason Statham) is compromised, she volunteers to go deep un - counter with the NYPD left him with a fractured leg and an mitted to the joke, McCarthy has dercover to infiltrate the world of a deadly arms dealer, and prevent a global disaster. (C) Fox arrest record. In his first comments following the late-night been misused in a few things (like scuffle outside a Chelsea club, Sefolosha made clear that while Identity Thief and that “Fat People she’s technically an agent, albeit an Rayna the high-society arms dealer usually be male, without the story his attorneys asked him to be silent for now, “I will simply in Love” TV show she’s on), but out-of-practice one with no field as the dumpy American who saved ever being overtly female-ori - say that I am in great pain, have experienced a significant it’s impressive how quickly Hol - experience. She’s rusty and unsure her life. Rose Byrne is fiercely ented. Apart from a quick ex - injury and that the injury was caused by the police.” lywood has figured out how to use — she’s not James Bond — but funny as the haughty, cruel Rayna, change between Susan and her Already, the gap between the initial police accounts— her talents, and how quickly she’s she’s not an idiot. The voice in her continuing a streak of sharp com - C.I.A. boss acknowledging how reprinted as objective narration by some media outlets—and gained enough clout not to have to ear back at HQ is her best friend edy performances from her. She female agents have been over - the version that’s coming to light, should be giving NYPD settle for fatty-fall-down comedies. and co-worker Nancy (Miranda and McCarthy are great foils for shadowed in the past, none of Spy Commissioner William Bratton night sweats. The official story Spy reunites her with Brides - Hart), whose delightful enthusiasm each other, and the script mixes is “about” girl power or feminism was that Thabo and teammate Pero Antic were arrested after maids and The Heat director Paul buoys her through the mishaps. odd-couple humor with weirder or equality. It just IS those things. being asked “six times” to leave a crime scene where NBA Feig, who wrote the screenplay this A lot of jokes come from the things like Susan getting glamorous When Susan goes undercover and player Chris Copeland was stabbed. Then, as the original time, presumably with McCarthy Agency’s shoddy, almost hostile makeovers (McCarthy looks great) needs weapons disguised as things police report proclaimed, “the defendant Thabo Sefolosha in mind. She plays Susan Cooper, treatment of her, as she gets the that Rayna finds hideous. she might carry in her purse, she [ran] in an aggressive manner towards the direction of Police a C.I.A. analyst whose job is to unglamorous versions of the re - This movie has no fat jokes. doesn’t get exploding tampons or Officer Daniel Dongvort” and “Officer Dongvort’s back was stay at headquarters and feed spies sources that more important agents Not one. We’ve been conditioned poison lipstick or whatever. Be - facing the defendant at the time.” information through their earpieces get, not to mention less flattering to expect that when a Person of cause the quartermaster (Michael Yet facts are stubborn things, and the most stubborn fact while they’re on missions. She’s cover identities. When she follows Size stars in a comedy, there will McDonald) is weirdly bitter to - that makes this story feel like fantasy is that the arrest took paired with Bradley Fine (Jude Rayna to Rome, her local ally is a be jokes about his or her weight. ward her, she gets embarrassing place well over 40 yards away from the stabbing. I went down Law), a suave agent on whom she dashingly pervy Italian buffoon And Spy has so much funny stuff stuff like hemorrhoid pads and to the block where the stabbing and subsequent arrest took has developed a crush, but to played by a very funny Peter Ser - going on that it doesn’t have to toenail fungus cream — again, place. The distance is considerable in the light of day. So whose 007 she will always be noth - afinowicz. She also must contend bother with it. At one point, Susan jokes based on character rather imagine how far apart the two places would have seemed with ing more than a Moneypenny. with fellow agent Rick Ford (Jason even asks Rayna what’s so hard than on the simple fact that she’s dozens of people crowding a narrow Tenth Avenue sidewalk When an arms dealer named Statham), a dim English hothead to believe about a man being se - a woman. Most of the things in between the stabbing and the retreat toward the team’s hotel. Rayna Boyanov (Rose Byrne) kills who went rogue in protest over Su - duced by her — a perfect setup, the film that are funny, or even The idea that police were yelling on six separate occasions Fine and exposes several other san’s assignment and is trying to especially for the mean Rayna — supposed to be, would work with over the heads of throngs of people—amidst ambulances and agents, it becomes necessary for accomplish the mission himself. and instead of a fat joke, the movie the genders reversed, too. all matter of chaos—for two men to walk away seems absurd. the C.I.A. director (Allison Janney) Statham’s performance is impres - goes with a joke about Susan’s The best part, of course, is that An alternative version of what may have happened was to send a complete nobody into the sively daft, never more so than frumpy style and personality. The it’s funny — brash, potty- told to SI’s Greg Hanlon by an anonymous source who had field, just to keep tabs on Rayna when he rattles off lists of past ex - humor is based on character, mouthed, and, as Susan becomes spoken to several people on the scene. before she can sell a nuke. That ploits that sound like funnier ver - which Feig and McCarthy created, increasingly confident, cheerfully In this version, as people were dispersing following the person will be Susan. sion of those Chuck Norris jokes not on McCarthy’s physical attrib - violent in a badass fashion. Not Copeland stabbing, “one officer focused on Sefolosha, and Now, here you are expecting people used to tell. utes, which came with the pack - every joke lands, of course; I then he continues to track him down the block like a D-back that Susan will be totally incom - While keeping an eye on age. In other words, they tried don’t want to oversell it. But the tracking a receiver.” Then according to Hanlon’s source, “Se - petent, a klutz who will only save Rayna, Susan spots an attempt on harder, and it worked. success rate is high enough that folosha turns to him and asked in substance what the officer’s the day accidentally, and probably her life and must intervene, lest It’s also notable how many when the film ended with the door problem was with him.” Sefolosha was subsequently knocked with pie on her face. Here you are Rayna perish before she can lead roles in the movie are female, in - open for more adventures with to the ground, where according to video, an officer is clearly wrong. Susan had all the C.I.A. them to the nukes. Now Susan is cluding some (like the hero’s boss these characters, it sounded like unsheathing and raising some kind of baton. training when she joined up, and deep undercover, befriending and the lead villain) that would an idea with promise. What sounds more realistic? That Thabo Sefolosha, whose off-court reputation is pristine, decided to bum-rush a police ogy like thermal cameras, Wargo marily rely on when working communication with each other,” Fire Training from A1 officer whose back was turned, or that a pissed-off cop, emphasized that the drills also through such conditions. said Wargo, who is also the project adrenalized over a melee involving a stabbed NBA player, While some firefighters cer - help responders heighten their “All they’re using is manager for the Market Place chose to get aggressive with the other black NBA player on tainly take advantage of technol - senses, which is what they pri - their feel, their hearing and their train-ing exercises. the premises? Berman Enterprises, a These kinds of confrontations do not happen every day, Rockville real estate agency, pur - but they do happen. Police engage in racial profiling and NBA CITY OF DISTRICT HEIGHTS chased the Market Place mall players, who could not be in the league without healthy egos, NOTICE OF A PROPOSED property in 2013. It is scheduled don’t like being treated like shit by cops. It’s simply a recipe REAL PROPERTY TAX INCREASE to be demolished and turned into for conflict. Remember thepepper-spraying of Chris Webber, a residential shopping complex when he wouldn’t get off his phone quickly enough for an of - The Mayor and Commissioners of the City of District Heights proposes to at a to-be-determined time. In the ficer who pulled him over in his car, or the tasing of Dale increase real property taxes. meantime, the fire department has Davis, after the Indiana Pacers power forward dared police been using the property for train - 1. For the tax year beginning July 1, 2015, the estimated real officers to shoot him. Those are only two examples, and I ing for the past few months, ac - could list several more. What I cannot find is an instance with property assessable base will increase by 8.7% from cording to Prince George’s an NBA player seeing a police officer and just going on the $291,438,850 to $316,661,160 County Fire Chief Marc Bashoor. attack. Perhaps that is why Internal Affairs is now investigating 2. If the City of District Heights maintains the current tax rate Bashoor addressed the small the arresting officers. crowd of fire personnel and press of $1.02 per $100 of assessment, real property tax revenues What happened to Thabo Sefolosha has happened before. to express the department’s ap - But this case is also different. It is the first one to take place will increase by 8.7% resulting in $257,268 of new real property preciation to be able to use the amidst the presence of the Black Lives Matter movement tax revenues. building as a training site. against police violence; the first “cops vs. jocks” story to hap - 3. In order to fully offset the effect of increasing assessments, the “It’s been a long time since pen in simultaneous fashion with stories such as the execution we’ve had this opportunity and real property tax rate should be reduced to $0.9388, the constant shooting of Walter Scott by Officer Michael Slager and the we appreciate Berman Enter - recording of a police officer responding to the dying Eric Har - yield tax rate. prises for working with us to ris’ plea that he could not breathe because of a police bullet in 4. The City is considering not reducing its real property tax rate make this facility available to his back with “Fuck your breath.” It is the first one to happen enough to fully offset increasing assessments. The City proposes use,” said Bashoor. after a fall of NBA players taking the court to say that they The department’s time at to adopt a real property tax rate of $0.9488 per $100 of assessment. stand with the thousands who believe that the police have a Market Place is set to expire responsibility to not kill the unarmed. This tax rate is 1.1% higher than the constant yield tax rate and Thursday, however there is a Now the ball is in Thabo Sefolosha’s hands. He is clearly will generate $31,666 in additional property tax revenues. possibility for further use de - preparing a lawsuit against the NYPD and if successful, good A public hearing on the proposed real property tax rate increase will be pending on how the demolition for him. As the head of an NAACP branch who asked his schedule is determined, accord - held at 7:00 p.m. on June 4, 2015 at the E. Michael Roll Municipal Building, name to be withheld said to me, “The police are like any busi - ing to the department spokesman ness. You sue. You take their money. You get the bureaucrats 2000 Marbury Drive, District Heights, Maryland 20747. Mark Brady. nervous and hopefully that means you change their behavior.” The hearing is open to the public, and public testimony is encouraged. Training will then move to Persons with questions regarding this hearing may call (301) 336-1402 for local departments’ facilities and at the county’s fire acad - See POLICE STORY Page A 7 further information. emy in Cheltenham. May 21 — May 27, 2015 — The Prince George’s Post —A 7

EARTH TALK ... Is Backyard Firepit a Health Hazard Calendar of Events Dear EarthTalk: an issue, contact your local May 21 — May 27, 2015 health or fire department to de - Now that summer is coming, termine further action. my neighbors will be firing up If you’re in the market to buy Yoga in the Parks at Watkins Regional Park their backyard fire pits again, a fire pit and would like to avoid Date & Time: Tuesdays, May 26-September 1, 2015 9-10 am and I’m wondering if the wood having smoke drift into your Description: Did you know yoga can be modified to suit all smoke drifting in my open win - neighbor’s yard or home, some levels of fitness and has the ability to lower blood pressure, in - dows is a health hazard for my models are specially designed to crease strength and flexibility, energize your body? family and if I have any stand - reduce smoke output. The Amer - Join us for FREE outdoor yoga classes in the parks! Learn basic ing to require them to refrain? ican-made Backyard Firefly fire yoga techniques and how to free your mind, body, and spirit in pit, for example, utilizes a verti - this popular fitness activity for all ages. — Mitch Brasky, cal design that causes the smoke Cost: Free Reno, NV to be combusted in the fire and Ages: All ages welcome the remainder to rise vertically, Location: Watkins Regional Park With summer approaching, reducing air pollution by over 301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro, MD many of us are eagerly antici - 50 percent from conventional 20774 pating the first night we can campfires. There are also a mul - CREDIT: NAUTICAL9, FLICKRCC Contact: 301-446-6800; TTY 301-446-6802 gather with loved ones under the titude of beautifully designed Exposure to wood smoke can cause health problems such as burn - stars around our backyard fire natural gas fire pits currently ing eyes, runny nose, and bronchitis — and can aggravate pre-ex - Blood Pressure Screenings for Seniors pits. But neighbors might have available. Natural gas fire pits isting heart and respiratory conditions. Date and Time: Wednesday, March 18, April 15 & not-so-warm feelings about won’t produce smoke, will in - May 20, 2015 11:45 am-12:30 pm wood smoke entering their yards stantly light and won’t have to they are made of 100 percent re - wood typically means its dry Description: Seniors will receive free blood pressure screenings and homes. According to the be cleaned like wood-burning newable resources. enough to burn, or you can pur - from licensed professionals. U.S. Environmental Protection fire pits that accumulate ash and For those who own a wood- chase a moisture meter to test Ages: 60 & Better Agency (EPA), wood smoke is soot residue. burning fire pit and would like the moisture level in the wood. Location: Langley Park Senior Activity Center a complex mixture of gases and If you already own a wood- to continue using conventional “Moisture meters that allow you 1500 Merrimac Dr, Hyattsville 20783 microscopic particles, and when burning backyard fire pit, you chopped wood, the EPA Burn to test the moisture level in wood Contact: 301-408-4343; TTY: 301-446-3402 these microscopic particles get can replace conventional wood Wise program advises to use are available in all sizes and can into your eyes and respiratory with certain varieties of Du - only properly dried wood, be - cost as little as $20,” the EPA Toddler Time system, they can cause health raflame Logs. Duraflame Stax cause wet wood can create ex - states. “Properly dried wood Date and Time: Thursdays, May 7, 14, 21 & 28, 11 am-12 pm problems such as burning eyes, logs are shaped like split wood cessive smoke. To allow wood should have a reading of 20 per - Description: Parents and their toddlers can enjoy time at the na - runny nose, and bronchitis. and burn with the same charred to properly dry, stack wood cent or less. Dry wood creates a ture center with hands-on treasures, crafts, stories, soft play, and As part of its “Burn Wise” appearance and crackling sounds away from buildings on rails in hotter fire. Hotter fires save much more. program, EPA warns that people of a wood fire, but with half the a single row with the split side wood – ultimately saving you Cost: FREE who have heart or lung disease, hazardous air pollutants of an down. Cracked ends on the time and money.” Ages: 2 & up such as congestive heart failure, equivalent wood fire. Duraflame Location: Mount Rainier Nature and Recreation Center angina, chronic obstructive pul - Campfire Roasting Logs create CONTACTS: EPA Burn Wise, epa.gov/burnwise/; Backyard Fire - 4701 31st Place, Mount Rainier, MD 20712 monary disease, emphysema or hot coals safe for roasting fly, www.backyardfirefly.com; Duraflame Roasting Logs, www.du - Contact: 301-927-2163; TTY 301-699-2544 asthma, should especially limit marshmallows, hot dogs or raflame.com/products/roasting-logs. their exposures to wood smoke. cooking other campfire foods EarthTalk® is written and edited by Roddy Scheer and Doug The Battle of Bladensburg If you’re concerned about smoke and produce 60 percent less par - Moss and is a registered trademark of Date and Time: Saturday, May 23, 2015 1-2 pm E - The Environmen - emitting from a neighbor’s fire ticulate emissions than an equiv - (www.emagazine.com). Description: The history of the Battle of Bladensburg: A re - tal Magazine Send questions to: pit, speak to your neighbor about alent wood fire. No trees are cut [email protected]. counting of events leading up to the battle, its participants, and the matter. If the smoke remains down to produce these logs and its outcome. Cost: Free about having better solutely NOT! But I am confi - dren and this County for gen - from A5 Ages: All ages welcome Economy schools...but run and hide dent we can through sacrifice, erations to come. Location: Bladensburg Waterfront Park economic engine of the State, when the bill is due. Do you we will be successful. And Remember, “Change will 4601 Annapolis Road, Bladensburg 20710 this is what we must do. And know what the most asked with an unprecedented level of not come if we wait for some Contact: 301-779-0371; TTY 301-699-2544 if we want the best for our question that I have heard in development projects on tap. other person or some other children and the families of my 20 years of public service A decreasing crime rate. An time. We are the ones we’ve Shop N’ Sell Prince George’s County, this to this County? “What are we improving healthcare system been waiting for. We are the Date and Time: Saturday, May 23, 2015 8 am-12 noon is what we must do. going to do about our with the new Regional Medical change we seek.” This invest - Description: Find hidden treasures from your neighbors' base - Every year at my budget schools?” My friends, it's time Center. And one of the top su - ment is about change. Dra - ments and attics. This annual event attracts many people from hearings the most common re - for us to put up... or forever perintendents in the nation matic Change! It is about us be - the Greater Fort Washington area. Space is limited to the first quest is for more money to: ex - hold our peace. We either want leading our school system. lieving in schools and our 45 vendors who sign up. Vendors can set-up at 7 am. pand academic programs, re - the best schools or we don't. It Our County is moving in the children. I refuse to give up on Cost: Residents: $20; Non-Residents: $24 duce classroom size, improve is just that simple! right direction. But we must us. But more importantly, I re - Ages: 21 & up facilities; and provide all day This is our moment … Now embrace this challenge and lay fuse to give up on the children Location: Harmony Hall Regional Center pre-k. We can’t keep talking is the time. Will it be easy? Ab - the foundation for your chil - of Prince George’s County.” 10701 Livingston Road, Fort Washington 20744 Contact: 301-203-6040; TTY 301-203-6030

All Thoroughbred Horse Show Date and Time: Saturday-Sunday, May 23-24, 2015 8 am Description: The Prince George's Equestrian Center will host the All Thoroughbred Horse Show. Cost: Free for spectators Location: The Show Place Arena 14900 Pennsylvania Avenue Upper Marlboro, MD 20772 Contact: 301-952-7900; TTY 301-952-7998

Seasonal Selections: Remembering the Fallen Date and Time: Sunday, May 24, 2015, noon-3:15 pm Description: Using produce from the kitchen gardens, the Rivers - dale Kitchen Guild demonstrates 19th century open hearth cook - ing featuring army fare and ration recipes. On this Sunday, our feast will remember the fallen soldiers. Cost: Free; regular fee applies for house tours Ages: All ages welcome Location: Riversdale House Museum 4811 Riverdale Road, Riverdale Park 20737 Contact: 301-864-0420; TTY 301-699-2544

Seniors: Toby's Dinner Theatre “1776” the Musical Date & Time: Wednesday, May 27, 2015 9:30 am-3 pm Description: The signing of the Declaration of Independence, a groundbreaking event in American history, blazes to vivid life in this most unconventional of Broadway hits. 1776 puts a human Clearwater’s top accomplish - than 481 Maryland Green Agreement 2014 goals and sup - from A1 face on the pages of history as we see the men behind the national Patuxent ments are: educating on plastic pol - Schools. The Maryland Green ports Maryland State Department figures determined to do the right thing for a fledgling nation. lage, which was built by student vol - lution and food waste issues; im - Schools program is nationally of Education graduation require - 1776 is a funny, insightful, and compelling drama with a won - unteers; developing new programs; proving the campfire circle so it recognized as having significant ments and standards. derful musical score. Lunch is included. Trip will leave the Lan - organizing river cleanups and by of - can be used as an outdoor class - impact with students and schools. For more on the Department gley Park Senior Activity Center with a Commission bus. fering citizen science opportunities. room; removing exotic invasive The program encourages educa - of Parks and Recreation, visit Cost: Resident: $68; Non-Resident: $72 At Clearwater Nature Center, plants while expanding the native tional opportunities for preK-12 www.pgparks.com and stay con - Ages: 60 & Better staff uses its school-based pro - plant gardens; developing a series schools that increase awareness nected on Facebook and Twitter. Location: Langley Park Senior Activity Center grams to teach that nature can be of natural craft programs and using and understanding of environ - The Maryland-National Capital 1500 Merrimac Drive, Hyattsville 20783 found in all settings. They show the Green Center application to re - mental interrelationships that im - Park and Planning Commission, Contact: 301-408-4343; TTY 301-446-3402 visitors how to support green ini - think and improve the center’s cur - pact public health and our society, Department of Parks and Recre - tiatives by teaching how to garden riculum-based program offerings and that promote responsible en - ation encourages and supports Travel to Delaware Bay with Watkins Nature Center with native plants, by providing for schools. vironmental stewardship prac - the participation of individuals Date & Time: Thursday, May 28, 2015 7:00 am-8:30 pm shelter for wildlife and by discour - There are currently 41 Mary - tices. The program is aligned with with disabilities in all programs Description: Put down your remote, stop watching Animal Planet aging invasive species. land Green Centers and more Chesapeake Bay Watershed and services. and take a trip with us to Delaware Bay to experience sea animals NBA players choose to amplify in their natural habitat. Our trip to Delaware Bay falls during Police Story from A6 the height of the horseshoe crab mating and egg-laying season, it during the playoffs, then we allowing us to get a glimpse of how these living fossils procreate. This is a valid point. But we have could have something powerful ADVERTISE also seen big-city police depart - on our hands that hastens the ! The shore also allows for prime shorebird watching. The trip in - in cludes stops at the DuPont Nature Center and Prime Hook Na - ments pay out millions with little changes in policing whose ne - tional Wildlife Refuge. Please bring a lunch, snacks and drinks, to show for it in changed behav - cessity is made so desperately binoculars, a camera, and dress according to the weather. ior. New York City alone has obvious with every felled black The Prince George’s Post Cost: $25.00 for residents and $30.00 for non-residents belched up half a billion dollars body. Whatever path Thabo Se - Register online or at oneof our community centers since 2009, to settle police bru - folosha selects may be a personal CALL Ages: 18 and older tality civil suits out of court. This and business decision before it is payout did not save Eric Garner a political one. But going public Location: Watkins Regional Park Brenda Boice at 301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro, MD anymore than it spared Thabo Se - is the best way for Thabo to take Contact: 301-446-3313 folosha. But if Thabo chooses to the “great pain” he is in, and give mount a public campaign and if some back. ( 301 627 0900