The Pri nce Ge orge’s Pos t

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

Vol. 84, No. 5 February 4—February 10, 2016 Prince George’s County, Maryland Newspaper of Record Phone: 301-627-0900 25 cents

Maryland’s Star Point Guard Still Learning in Second Season By TROY JEFFERSON “He’s just a tough guy to Capital News Service guard, now he’s got so many weapons,” Northwestern head COLLEGE PARK, MD— coach Chris Collins said in a Melo Trimble isn’t the new press conference after the game. guy taking the conference by “He presents so many problems storm anymore. In his second when he can get around you. season, Trimble is the focal He’s so shifty, if you put too point for the University of many guys on him he’s going Maryland Terrapins and oppos - to hit Rasheed (Sulaimon), he’s ing teams know it. going to hit Jake (Layman), he’s “Teams are starting to going to hit Diamond (Stone), strategize against me and he’s going to hit Robert (Carter watch film on me,” Trimble Jr.), he’s a tough cover.” said after leading the basket - Trimble added six assists ball team with 18 points in a and also had a block, a steal winning effort against the and a rebound. In two games Northwestern Wildcats, 62-56, against Northwestern, he has on Tuesday night. combined to score 42 points. With the win, Maryland (17- On the season, Trimble is 2 overall, 6-1 Big Ten) keeps averaging 13 points per pace with Indiana and Iowa, CAPITAL NEWS SERVICE GRAPHIC BY KAREN TANG game—three fewer than last who are undefeated in the con - The percentage of people who back legalized marijuana has increased almost five times since 1969, according to a long-running season—but has upped his as - ference. Northwestern (15-5 CBS News poll. sists to five per game, which overall, 3-4 Big Ten) remains is two more than he averaged in the middle of the pack. in his freshman season. The star point guard has It’s still a learning process been able to break down de - for Trimble, who had a chance fenses in a multitude of ways Medical Marijuana Supporters to win the game with a buzzer- since he arrived in College beating three-pointer on Tues - Park last season. Against day as he did a week ago Northwestern, he used his abil - against Wisconsin. But instead Look for toC authorhize maedicnal mgarijueana frOn othe emve of V etCerans Doay, nerngmenrt sehoulsd es nd prohibi - ity to score. This past Saturday KAREN TANG he clanked the ball off the rim. By against Ohio State, he only Capital News Service use for patients signaled a vic - the Senate approved the Veter - tion on medical marijuana,” “(Coach Mark Turgeon) just took five shots and scored tory for supporters. ans Affairs spending bill. The Collins said. told me go to the basket next eight points but instead im - WASHINGTON, D.C.— “We support medical mari - funding bill also included lan - For many veterans living time. He said a lot of other pacted the game with his pass - For some time, medical mari - juana,” said Michael Collins, guage allowing VA doctors to with PTSD, the legislation things but that’s all I heard,” ing, dishing out nine assists. juana has been a back-and-forth deputy director of the Drug Pol - give their patients recommen - seems long overdue. Trimble said. Northwestern tried to em - controversy among experts, vet - icy Alliance. “There have been dations to use medical mari - U.S. Navy veteran T.J. Seeing as how he made a sea - ploy a matchup zone to slow erans and the public. So the a number of studies showing the juana where it is legal in the Thompson, of Chesapeake, Va., son-high five three-pointers the down Trimble and the high- Senate’s passage last month of positive impact of medical mar - United States. powered Terrapins offense but legislation allowing Veterans ijuana on post-traumatic stress “We believe that at the fed - Health Administration doctors disorder veterans.” eral level … the federal gov - it wasn’t enough. See TRIMBLE Page A 3 See MARIJUANA Page A 3

Hospice of the Chesapeake Expands Social Security Administration ‘Courageous Conversations’ to Include Prince George’s and Anne Arundel Counties Headquarters to Get $150 The series is designed to share Each session will be facili - By Press Officer information, provide helpful tated by Hospice of the Chesa - Hospice of the Chesapeake Million Renovation tools and provoke thought for peake professionals. The spring By PRESS OFFICER PASADENA, MD—After families facing the prospect of 2016 schedule is as follows: BCM two successful rounds last year difficult choices and conversa - “Safe Passages: Navigating in Annapolis and Severna Park, tions around end of life. Coura - Options in the Face of Serious TOWSON , MD—The So - Hospice of the Chesapeake will geous Conversations is an initia - Illness” - A discussion on how cial Security Administration has expand its free educational se - tive of The John & Cathy to make choices with hospice been headquartered in Wood - ries of community discussions, Belcher Institute for Complex Ill - and palliative care. lawn for more than 55 years, yet Courageous Conversations. The ness Care, which Hospice of the • 6:30 to 8 p.m. March 31— the agency’s main operations spring 2016 series begins March Chesapeake seeks to make a na - Presented by Business Liaison building has seen no major ren - 31 and will offer seven sessions, tional leader in positive and Deidre Wall and Volunteer Co - ovations or systems upgrades with three at the Annapolis Re - transformational change in the since it was built in 1959. gional Library and four at loca - fields of advanced complex ill - Today Senator Barbara tions in Prince George’s County. ness and end-of-life care. See HOSPICE Page A 7 Mikulski announced $150 million in federal funds have been secured for major up - grades to the Altmeyer build - ing. The renovations will ad - PGCPS BOE Member Elected to dress health and safety issues, meet current accessibility standards, improve space uti - PHOTO COURTESY BALTIMORE COUNTY MARYLAND SBy PeRErSSv OFeFI CoER n Nagrtami,o thne Caounlc ilL of eUrvban elgrams to support students who lization and provide a com - Left to right: AFGE Local 1923 President Cynthia Ennis; PGCPS Boards of Education. live in poverty or other circum - fortable, energy efficient Carolyn Colvin, Social Security, Administration Acting Com - The Council of Urban Boards stances that create serious obsta - working environment that missioner; State Senator Delores Kelley; Senator Barbara, UPPER MARLBORO, of Education (CUBE) is guided cles to learning. The Steering meets 21st century standards. Mikulski; Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz; So - MD—Prince George’s County by a steering committee that is Committee is comprised of 16 The Social Security Admin - cial Security Administration, Chief of Staff Stacy Rodgers. Public Schools (PGCPS) Board committed to helping school school board members elected by istration is headquartered in of Education Member, District boards in all communities close representatives of over 100 large Woodlawn. With 11,000 work - 5, Verjeana Jacobs, Esq., was the achievement gap, raise high and small school districts partic - ers, it is Baltimore County’s remains home to the Social Se - Kamenetz. “We thank Senator recently elected as Vice Chair school graduation rates, provide ipating in the CUBE program. single largest employer. curity Administration for Mikulski for her hard work and of the Steering Committee for intervention services to academ - “This significant investment decades to come,” said Balti - commitment to keeping these National School Boards Asso - ically struggling students, and ciation’s (NSBA) urban pro - ensures that Baltimore County more County Executive Kevin important jobs here.” create broad-based school pro - See JACOBS Page A 7

INSIDE PGCPS CEO and Staff A Single Spark Baker, PGC EDC and Maryland Movie Review: Brooklyn Earth Talk Recognized at Reception As part of a national day of so - Department of Commerce Eilis gets a job at a department store Alongside Civil Rights Legends cial action, the students learned Announce Partnership to Expand while taking bookkeeping classes at the What is the latest thinking on At The John F. Kennedy Center for how they can use their voices to International Trade Opportunities local college. She’s homesick at first, the environmental causes (if any) Performing Arts, The National Youth make policy change. Like the Free - for Local Companies and unaccustomed to Brooklyn’s hustle of autism? I hear so much conflict - Summit on Education, Justice, and the dom Riders, they realized they Moving forward, Prince George’s and bustle. She exchanges tender letters ing information I don’t know what U.S. Economy honored three civil couldn’t count on riding the bus to County will be an official partner with with her mother and sister back in Ire - to believe. rights legends and recognized several get where they needed to go—most the Maryland Department of Com - land, and the priest soothes her with the Prince George’s County Public Schools of all, to school—because they merce on its Maryland Partners in In - assurance that homesickness, like most —Bill Stribling, (PGCPS) educators and leaders. couldn’t afford it. ternational Trade (MAPIT) program. sicknesses, will leave her soon enough. Austin, TX Community , Page A3 Commentary , Page A4 Business , Page A5 Out on the Town , Page A6 Features , Page A7 A2—February 4—February 10, 2016—The Prince George’s Post Towns and N EIGHBORS In and Around Morningside-Skyline by Mary McHale 301 735 3451 Neighborhood Events Jim’s funeral procession took Koch, formerly of Morning - Candidates must have him back to Morningside side and Suitland, who died resided in the Town for at least Edwards: Republicans Waste No Time Once The large Nichols family and January 26 at the age of 102. a year, shall not have been con - their friends gathered at Wash - She was a remarkable woman victed of a felony or misde - Again Attacking Clean Water Protections ington National Cemetery on and I’ll tell you about her in a meanor involving moral turpi - WASHINGTON , D.C.— CB-70-2015 ensures en - January 30 to fly Chinese kites future column. tude, and be a registered voter Congresswoman Donna F. Ed - forcement and penalties for lit - in memory of Jim Nichols who Skyline President Stan “he - in the Town. Those not already wards (MD-4) issued the fol - tering; prohibits the accumu - would have turned 35 that day. roes” who helped neighbors registered to vote in the Town lowing statement regarding two lation or deposit of litter; He had died at his home in Glen during our blizzard this past may do so at the Town Hall on Republicans bills aimed at gut - provides for action upon non - Burnie on January 10. An au - week. I’ll run the names of Monday, April 4, 1:00 to 8 p.m. ting clean water protections. compliance; and provides for topsy indicated he died of nat - these generous souls as I get Morningsiders wishing to Yesterday, the House passed civil monetary fines and in - ural causes after feeling ill for them. In the meantime you be considered as an election H.R. 1644, the STREAM Act, junctive relief. a week. might want to call me with the judge can contact the Admin - which would block regulations Jim Brown Nichols was names of some heroes in your istrative Office at 301-736- meant to protect streams, rivers, Van Hollen Visits born at Southern Maryland neighborhood. 2300 no later than 5 p.m. on and communities from the dev - Community School in Hospital on Jan. 30, 1981 to Friday, Feb. 12. astating effects of mountaintop Baltimore as Part of Economic Tour Jimmy B. and Holly Jean District 8 Coffee mining. Today, the House Nichols. He was the grandson passed S.J. Res 22, a resolution Congresswoman KENSINGTON , MD—To - County Councilman Obie Changing landscape of Morningside founding resi - Donna F. Edwards day Chris Van Hollen contin - Patterson invites you to join him Bay Crab & Seafood has of disapproval of the Adminis - dents Lawrence and Mary ued a series of conversations at the District 8 Community opened at 6210 Coventry Way tration’s Clean Water Act Rule Nichols who were parents of about Maryland’s economy at Coffee on Friday, Feb. 19, 9:00 in Clinton. I’ve read several issued in June 2015. The reso - and recognitions for his work 14—including six sons, all with the Historic Samuel Coleridge- to 11 a.m., at Darrah’s Café, good reviews. For hours, call lution would invalidate the en - on behalf of environmental the initials J. B. Taylor Elementary School, a 10907 Fort Washington Rd. in 240-318-0005. tire rule and overturn years of causes and issues in Maryland. Jim attended Central and then Community School in West Fort Washington. RSVP to The State Highway Admin - work to define “waters of the “Donna Edwards has been Forestville High School where Baltimore. The school serves [email protected] istration is planning to build an United States,” reintroducing a stalwart for environmental he played football. In recent children in pre-K through 5th by Feb. 15. More information? interchange to replace the in - confusion and uncertainty to protection for as long as I can years he has worked as a carpet grade, with over 95 percent of Call 301-952-3860. tersection of Pennsylvania Av - regulated industries and con - recall, first as a grassroots ad - mechanic for several companies. students receiving free or re - enue & Suitland Parkway, cur - cerned communities. vocate and then as an elected He was the father of Justin “Last night, President duced lunch. It is one of four Life in rently controlled by traffic leader. Her commitment to the B. Nichols, Jaxon B. Nichols Obama’s State of the Union community schools that are Prince Geo.rge’s County signals. Work is scheduled to environment has been unwa - (who died at birth) and Jacob part of Promise Heights, an ef - An exhibit focusing on begin this spring and will con - address urged us to come to - vering and is reflected time B. Nichols; brother of Joe Brian gether to overcome challenges fort with the University of African American life in Prince tinue till fall 2019. and again in her many con - Maryland Baltimore that fo - Nichols, Jason Butler Nichols George’s County from the late and fix our broken politics. In - gressional votes in support of (Nicole Rae) and Tina Marie stead, we again see more of the cuses on a pipeline of support 1600s to the early 1900s opened policies and aims that will services for students, families, Harrison (Chasen Robert). And with a reception on Jan. 31 at Morningside Memories: 1991 same from my Republican col - make a greener and more sus - Harry Renninger, of Forest and the community. he leaves many, many other rel - Harmony Hall Regional Center. leagues. This time, they passed tainable society. I admire her Grove Drive, was sworn in as Van Hollen was joined by atives and friends who filled St. It will continue through Feb. 29. two pieces of legislation that consistent willingness to put councilman on Jan. 28. The the Family League of Balti - John the Evangelist Church in Hours are Monday thru Friday, threaten one of our nation’s the needs of the planet plus its Morningside Town Council se - more, which has been working Clinton where Fr. Charles Mc - 8:30 a.m. to 7:45 p.m.; Saturday, most vital resources: clean wa - people and communities ahead lected him after Ken Miller re - for over 20 years to mobilize Cann celebrated the Mass of 10 a.m. to 1:45 p.m.; closed ter. 67 percent of Marylan - of politics as usual.” Christian Burial. signed to move with his family ders—2 out of 3 residents—get resources, empower commu - Sunday. It’s free. nities, and build the capacity As the long funeral proces - to Florida. their drinking water from Edwards: Override Harmony Hall Regional Cen - of organizations to provide sion wended its way to the Audrey Cook has been re- sources that rely on small Hogan’s Veto, Restore the ter is at 10701 Livingston Road children and families with cemetery, it turned off Suitland elected president of the Morn - streams. If these measures be - Right to Vote in Fort Washington. Phone: 301- high quality programs and Road into Morningside and ingside Seniors. Other officers come law, at least 59 percent of LANHAM , MD—Con - 203-6070 for information. services that help them reach drove slowly down Allies are: Dallas Bragunier, vice pres - Maryland’s stream miles that gresswoman Donna Edwards their full potential. The His - Road, past the Nichols’ ances - ident; Jo Cunningham, secre - feed into our drinking water (D-MD) released the follow - Morningside meetings toric Samuel Coleridge-Taylor tral home and, and across the tary; and Bettie Meck, treasurer. sources would be at risk of pol - ing statement calling on the street, a home where Jim lived & elections lution from development and in - Maryland House of Delegates Elementary School and the The next Morningside Coun - Flags were flying at VFW in recent years. dustrial activities. The aim of and State Senate to override Family League were recog - cil work-session will be Tues - Post 9619 and a sign in front of He is now at rest in Wash - these actions by the Republican Governor Larry Hogan’s (R- nized as 2015 Award for Ex - day, Feb. 9, at 7 p.m. The next the Post announced support for ington National Cemetery with majority is nothing more than MD) veto of legislation that cellence Winners by the Coali - Town Meeting will be a week Operation Desert Storm. many of the Nichols family as to appease their corporate spe - would restore voting rights tion for Community Schools later, Tuesday, Feb. 16, also at well as his other grandfather, cial interests. It is a shame, when for felons. and the Institute for Educa - 7 p.m. The meetings are open Andrew Colandrea, who used Milestones we should be debating and ad - “Maryland should be lead - tional Leadership. to the public. to live on Morgan Road in Happy birthday to Adam dressing issues that will help ing the movement to restore “We can’t have a conversa - Morningside will elect a Morningside. I imagine they all Cook, Feb. 5; Diane McCrone, working families and move the voting rights for those who tion about growing our econ - Mayor and two Council Mem - enjoyed the Chinese kites. Feb. 6; Theo Carter, Rita Beall country forward. I look forward have served their time, a fun - omy without talking about the bers on May 2. A personal note: Jim some - and J.B. Thomas, Feb. 7; Jesse to President Obama vetoing damental pillar of criminal jus - need to invest in our children’s Those wishing to run for the times did yardwork for me. I Ritter and my great-grand - both of these irresponsible and tice reform. They are valuable education and support the en - Council must be at least 21. will miss his labor and his won - daughter Molly McHale, Feb. destructive measures.” members of our communities tire family,” said Chris Van derful smile. Running for Mayor? At least 30 8; Connie Waby and Mary and deserve a voice in the fight Hollen. “This school is a great years. Applicants may obtain a (Stakem) Crane, Feb. 9; Alma Sierra Club Members for policies that promote better example of what we can Neighbors petition from the Town Admin - Richardson, Feb. 10; Ginny Release Statement in housing, workforce develop - achieve when the whole com - I received word this past istrative Office during regular Call, Dawn Witherow and Support of Donna Edwards ment, and public transporta - munity works together. They week of the death of Agnes business hours. David Chambers, Feb. 11. LANHAM , MD—On Jan - tion. The most fundamental el - are helping children and fami - uary 11, several Maryland ement of civic participation is lies in Baltimore succeed—but Sierra Club members released the vote. Far too often, our they are also laying the ground - a statement in support of Con - criminal justice system forces work for the entire state’s fu - Brandywine-Aquasco gresswoman Donna Edwards Americans to pay for their ture economic success.” (D-MD), calling into question crimes long after they have Last week, Van Hollen by Audrey Johnson 301 888 2153 the group’s endorsement of served their time. I urge the toured Zentech, the largest Congressman Chris Van electronics contract manufac - Boston, Vice Chair of the Board iors, or send an e-mail to sen - Maryland House of Delegates SUPPER BOWL Hollen. Below, please find turing organization in Mary - of Education received the Ethics [email protected]. and State Senate to override SPAGHETTI DINNER statements from Bonnie Bick land, and answered questions St. Philip’s Church, Baden Project Andrews Youth Award Governor Hogan’s wrong- and Fred Tutman. from about 100 employees. As Parish will be hosting a “Super Certificate for their distin - WIDOW’S MINISTRY headed and mean-spirited veto, Bonnie Bick, Political part this economic tour, he has Bowl Spaghetti Dinner” on guished service. LUNCHEON and give meaning to the belief Chair of the Southern Mary - also visited Humanim, a non- Sunday, February 7, 2016, im - Dr. Shaw Joseph, Deputy Join us Saturday, February that people deserve a real sec - land Group, member of the profit that provides job train - mediately following worship Superintendent for Teaching, 13th at 1:00 PM for a luncheon ond chance. A real second Sierra Club since 1991. ing to Baltimore residents and Service. Dinner cost will be and Sheila Jackson Director of with the objective/purpose to chance begins with the vote.” “Donna Edwards is the works to address barriers for $5.00 for adults and $2.50 for the Office of Family and Com - encourage, motivate, and clear choice for Marylanders Anti-Littering Legislation people facing high unemploy - children (12 years and under). munity Engagement. Alison strengthen new/season widows concerned about our environ - Becomes Law ment, ex-offenders, and those Dinners will include homemade Hanks Sloan, Principal at the as they journey through this new ment. Ever increasing air pol - CB-70-2015 Doubled who need to upgrade their spaghetti, tossed salad, french International High School at phase in their lives. Cost is free. lution threatens our children Fines for Littering in Prince skills, and the Sagamore De - bread and a desert. Largo, were presented the Please call 301-372-6036 to re - with more asthma. Water pol - George’s County; Raises Prop - velopment Company and Port Pre-orders and payments are Ethics Project Andrew Young serve your seat. The location is lution threatens our quality of erty Standards Covington, which will be the greatly appreciated. POC’s re - Award Certificate for their dis - Union Bethel Church at 6810 life, our fisheries and the Prince George’s County new headquarters of Under garding this matter are Shirley tinguished service. Floral Park Road, Brandywine, Chesapeake Bay. These dan - Council Bill 70-2015, legisla - Armour, to learn about the Ann (302) 690-4260, Doretha Maryland 20613. gerous trends cannot be re - tion doubling the fine for litter company’s commitment to in - Ann (301) 233-3136, Vivian SENIOR ACTIVITY versed unless we choose brave to $1000 per violation, has be - vesting in and growing jobs (301) 292-6037 and/or Henritta CENTERS VISITATION GRIEVING and bold leaders who are com - come law. in Baltimore. (301) 868-3781. Benefits St. Residents who are 60 and HEALING WORKSHOP mitted to a better future. Council Member Mel Van Hollen is focused on Philip’s Church. older can enjoy many social ac - The New Hope Fellowship tivities in the county. There are cordially invites you to attend our “Donna’s opponent voted Franklin (D) – District 9, lead building an economy that gives proposer of the legislation, 2016 NATIONAL YOUTH six senior activity centers in the visitation, grieving, healing work - for nine free trade agreements every Marylander the opportu - says CB-70 sends a strong LEADERSHIP SUMMIT county that offers a variety of shop Saturday, February 20, 2016 without regard to environmen - nity to get ahead. Far too many The National Youth Summit programs and services. These from 9:30 –12:30. The workshop tal protections, and failed to message that there is zero tol - people are working harder than on Education, Justice and the activities include health and will be held at our Family Life stand up for stricter reporting erance for litter or poor prop - ever but still feel stuck in place, U.S. Economy honored three wellness programs, trips, Center Nottingham Myers UMC requirements after the BP erty standards in our county. even as the very wealthy are civil rights legends and recog - classes, crafts, movies, games 15601 Brooks Church Road, Up - Gulf oil spill. Maryland needs “Litter and the accumula - doing better than ever. He be - nized several Prince George’s and many more activities. per Marlboro, Maryland 20772. a Senator who will stand up to tion of litter harms property lieves that the challenge of our County Public Schools (PGCPS) Transportation and hot Rev. Constance C. Smith, Senior the special interest polluters values and the quality of life time is building a strong econ - educators and leaders January lunches are provided by the Pastor. Church Email: every day. Donna has proven in our neighborhoods. We omy with more shared prosper - 13 at the John F. Kennedy Cen - Prince George’s County Depart - [email protected]. Church she is capable of doing that.” must hold those who willfully ity. That’s why he’s put forward ter for Performing Arts. Prince ment of Family Services Agency Phone: 301-888-2171. For addi - Fred Tutman, member of choose to do damage to the an economic action plan that George’s County Public Schools Aging Services Division at these tional information please contact the Sierra Club for 12 years, beauty of our county account - rewards hard work and helps Chief Executive Officer Dr. centers. Visit www.pgparks.com Cary F. Montgomery. Email: recipient of numerous awards able for their actions.” every Maryland family. Kevin M. Maxwell and Carolyn and click on Things to Do> Sen - [email protected]. February 4 —February 10, 2016— The Prince George’s Post —A 3 COMMUNITY

Practical Money Skills PGCPS CEO and Staff Recognized at By Nathaniel Sillin

Reception AAcaldeomy,n Wigntlesy Pihdippse, re -Ccomimvitmielnt Rand isegrviche ats sT rLainineg gin eSnchoodls, s and By PRESS OFFICER ceived an award of recognition. well,” said Maxwell. “One of my William Taylor, Founder and Take a Close Look at PGCPS PGCPS’ very own, Dr. Kevin main focus areas is a high per - Vice President, Coalition for UPPER MARLBORO, M. Maxwell, Chief Executive forming workforce, and this Public Safety Training in Social Security in 2016 MD—At the John F. Kennedy Officer, and Carolyn Boston, recognition shows that our ad - Schools also were also award If you’re not close to retire - Center for Performing Arts, the Vice Chair of the Board of Edu - ministrative and instructional and certificate recipients. ment age, it’s easy to ignore what National Youth Summit on Edu - cation, received the Ethics Proj - staff are performing at high lev - Social Security is doing. How - cation, Justice, and the U.S. ect Andrew Young Award for els of excellence worthy of this Prince ever, some significant announce - About PGCPS: Economy honored three civil their distinguished leadership. type of accolade.” George’s County Public Schools ments late last year make now a rights legends and recognized Dr. Shawn Joseph, Deputy Su - Several PGCPS students par - (PGCPS), one of the nation’s 25 very good time to pay attention. several Prince George’s County perintendent for Teaching and ticipated at the reception. Oxon largest school districts, has 209 What follows is a summary Public Schools (PGCPS) educa - Learning, Sheila Jackson, Direc - Hill High School senior and schools and centers, more of notable changes to Social Se - tors and leaders. tor for the Office of Family and Prince George’s County Board than129,000 students and nearly curity at the start of 2016 and The organization honored Community Engagement, and of Education Student Member 19,000 employees. With an an - ways to ensure you’re making civil rights legends, U.S. Am - Alison Hanks Sloan, Principal Ava Perry, along with classmates nual budget of $1.8 billion, the the right retirement planning and bassador Andrew J. Young, Dr. at the International High School Christian Sessoms, and Arm - district serves a diverse student claiming (http://www.consumer - Bernard Lafayette, co-founder of at Largo, were presented the strong Addy, introduced the hon - population from urban, suburban finance.gov/retirement/before-you-claim/) decisions based on The Student Nonviolent Coordi - Ethics Project Andrew Young orees, and students from Ben - and rural communities. PGCPS what’s ahead: nating Committee (SNCC), and Award Certificate for their dis - jamin D. Foulois Creative and is nationally recognized for its 1. 2016 Social Security payments won’t increase. In late Dr. Terrence Roberts, one of the tinguished service. Performing Arts Academy, under innovative programs and initia - October, Social Security (https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/) an - Little Rock Nine and co-founder “I am very honored by this the direction of Cullen Walker, tives, including the expansion of nounced that there wasn’t enough inflation in 2015 to create a of The Little Rock Nine Foun - award, and even more pleased performed a musical selection. Advanced Placement courses and cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) to monthly benefits this dation. World-renowned vocalist that several PGCPS educators Darrell Odom, President, partnerships with businesses and year. Understandably, this announcement shook up recipients and founder of the U.S. Dream were acknowledged for their Coalition for Public Safety institutions of higher learning. who look to Social Security for a significant part of their monthly income. It’s only the third time payments were frozen in the past 40 years since automatic COLA adjustments began, from A1 but here’s the rub—all three occasions occurred after 2010. In Marijuana short, most seniors will have to live with an average monthly expressed his feelings about his payment of $1,341 with married beneficiaries receiving a total struggles to access medical mar - of $2,212. ijuana. “It sucked,” he said. 2. Married and divorced individuals may have to rethink “They spent so much time the way they claim benefits. Also last October, Washington breaking us down (in the mili - settled a federal budget battle in part by closing some notable tary),” Thompson said. “Yet, loopholes in Social Security law that allowed certain married they kind of toss us into the curb couples to substantially increase their benefits over time and once we’re out.” certain divorced individuals to claim benefits from former Thompson, who suffers from spouses under certain circumstances. These new restrictions PTSD, tried using the prescrip - on so-called file-and-suspend and restricted-claim strategies tion drugs the Department of go into effect this coming May. In short, if you’re close to age Veterans Affairs prescribed but 62 (the earliest age you can start claiming Social Security ben - found them to be addicting. efits) getting qualified advice has never been more important. “From the time I was 21 years old to 2011 … I tried to When there’s no cost-of- 3. Other COLA-related issues. participate in (the VA’s) ways living adjustment, there’s no change in the maximum amount that they told me were the right of earnings subject to the Social Security tax, which will stay ways of healing, and I learned at $118,500 in 2016. This means earnings above that level that it was complete and utter aren’t subject to the Social Security portion of the payroll tax B.S.,” he said. “They’re trying or used to calculate retirement payouts. At the same time, the to get us addicted to lies and Social Security earnings limit for people who work and claim not be able to fight for our PHOTO COURTESY WIKKIPEDIA USER O’DEA Social Security payments will stay at $15,720 in 2016 for peo - own rights.” ple ages 65 and younger. Social Security beneficiaries who Discount Medical Marijuana cannabis shop at 970 Lincoln Street, Denver, Colorado. Thompson has worked with earn more than this amount will have $1 in benefits temporarily Veterans for Medical Cannabis withheld for every $2 in earnings above the limit. Access, Americans for Safe Ac - about medical marijuana, Bur - sions around veterans and med - ing to them and made him feel 4. Some benefits are going down—a little. The highest cess, Drug Policy Alliance and nett said he has found two ical marijuana,” Collins said. like a robot. possible Social Security payment for a 66-year-old worker Marijuana Policy Project to get things that may result: “One, “When you compare side who signs up for Social Security this year will be $2,639 per lawmakers to legalize medical veterans may not be fully dis - Medical Marijuana Versus effects for current first- month, down $24 from $2,663 in 2015. The reason? Social marijuana on a national level. closing all the things they are Prescription Drugs line therapies (such as prescrip - Security noted that despite no cost-of-living adjustment there using to help their PTSD and “The majority of people that tion drugs) for PTSD along was an increase in the national average wage index, one of the Medical Marijuana then two, they can’t necessarily we meet with and talk to … with the side effects for mari - statistical guideposts the agency uses to calculate benefits. in America ask questions.” talk about the positives of juana, it doesn’t really make 5. Service changes. If you haven’t created a My Social Se - While 23 states and the na - As a resident in the Hamp - medical marijuana and talk sense as to why marijuana curity account, do so for two reasons: First, there have been re - tion’s capital have enacted laws ton Roads metropolitan area in about the ways in which it has can’t be considered an option,” ports of ID theft related to thieves attempting fraudulent signups to legalize medical marijuana southeast Virginia, Thompson changed their life for the bet - Burnett said. for such accounts. Second, the agency is making more detailed for medical purposes, the plant had to find treatment elsewhere ter,” Collins said. Only 12 percent of people account data available online such as estimates of monthly pay - remains illegal under the fed - because his state prohibits him While he was in the Navy think that using marijuana can ments at various claiming ages. Also, Social Security expanded eral law. from talking to VA doctors from 1998 to 2004, Thompson be harmful to a person’s health, office hours in some of its field locations in 2015, so if you According to VA studies, about medical marijuana. suffered from mental health is - according to the CBS News poll. need face-to-face assistance, check hours of operation at your there is no evidence that shows It has been an ongoing sues. Those issues had Thomp - Medical marijuana has closest local office (https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp). that marijuana is an effective problem for those veterans that son at his breaking point. changed his life significantly, treatment for veterans with rely on VA doctors for their Thompson said, “let me try these Thompson said. “It is the most Bottom line: Social Security froze benefit amounts for the PTSD. Those that use mari - medical care. “Looking at the pills because I’m literally at my effective treatment for me, and coming year, and that has an impact on both current and future juana for their PTSD have a perspective from the veterans’ wits’ end.” He was put on anti- my therapist agrees,” he said. recipients. You can’t fully understand your retirement without hard time stopping, according view, they already experience a seizure drugs and antidepres - “My therapist would never want understanding how Social Security works, so now’s the time to the agency. lot of headwinds coming in, re - sants, but he said they only made to see me try and go on those to learn. The VA also reported that turning home from combat, and him worse. pills again.” marijuana use is associated I think (the inability to discuss Prescriptions drugs such as with a variety of medical side medical marijuana) is another Zoloft and Paxil have their own Medical Marijuana Trimble is leaning on last Trimble from A1 effects, such as chronic bron - one of those headwinds they host of side effects, which can and PTSD year’s experience as he pre - chitis, short-term memory im - have to face,” Burnett said. increase feelings of suicidal According to the National In - last time the two teams pares to try and lift Maryland pairment, poor motor coordina - thought, which you don’t find stitutes of Health, PTSD affects matched up, the shot seemed to new heights. tion and the inability to Progress in Congress using medical marijuana, Bur - about 7.7 million Americans. Up like a good option. “We found out last year that properly drive. It also may Medical marijuana advocates nett said. to 30 percent of PTSD victims “I jumped him pretty good. every game in the Big Ten is go - cause psychiatric problems like have been trying to change fed - Thompson recalls the first are military veterans, whereas It’s funny. If the shot would’ve ing to be tough,” Trimble said. psychosis and impairment in eral laws. “We’re fighting tooth time he tried to kill himself. He about seven percent are civilians, gone in, I wouldn’t have “All of my teammates believe in cognitive ability. and nail,” Thompson said, refer - was on a Navy ship when he according to the VA. jumped him. But it didn’t go each other. They believe in me ring to his fellow veterans. popped a whole bottle of his “When you introduce trauma in,” Turgeon said in a press to go down and bring us home.” However, Not “We’re trying to fight this mo - seizure pills and tried to slit his into the brain, you go into a conference after the game. Trimble and No. 7 Maryland Everyone Agrees. nopoly from the harms of gov - wrist with a modeling knife. process of fight-or-flight and Trimble made up for the miss will be tested again on Saturday In a CBS News Poll, 53 per - ernment and we are making The second suicide attempt that’s how I live on a daily ba - in overtime by attacking the rim when they travel to East Lansing cent of adults nationwide think headway—just not headway involved an overdose of Ativan sis,” Thompson said. and setting up his teammates. to take on No. 11 Michigan State that the use of marijuana should enough.” (a prescription drug for anxiety) Thompson’s PTSD has been “In overtime (Trimble) was (16-3 overall, 3-3 Big Ten). be legal. Yet, it seems that Congress is while consuming alcohol. at bay since using medical tremendous. He got baskets for Maryland swept the regular “As a physician myself, I softening its historic opposition The struggle pushed him to - marijuana. “I didn’t like being Robert and Diamond. I thought season series against Michi - find that particularly when to easing marijuana laws. ward medical marijuana. “I was in crowds,” he said. “I still his defense on McIntosh was gan State last season but lost working with patients who “The goal is to have access already in a funk, but the pills don’t. However, I am able to unbelievable, that kids a good in the Big Ten Tournament to have PTSD (post-traumatic to medical marijuana if (veter - stuck me in a funk,” Thompson cope and address those issues player,” Turgeon said. the Spartans. stress disorder), it’s important ans) need it to deal with their ill - said. “Medical marijuana has in a lot more positive manner to have an open discussion nesses,” Collins said. gotten me off those pills.” when I’m quote-end-quote about how their treatment is While the Senate has acted According to Collins, veter - ‘stoned or high.’” going,” said Dr. Malik Burnett, on the veterans funding bill ans think painkillers are addic - According to a study done in The Prince George’s Post resident physician at John Hop - with the medical marijuana tive and have bad side effects, New Mexico by the Journal of kins Bloomberg School of Pub - amendment, no action has which is why they switch over Psychoactive Drugs , PTSD lic Health. been taken in the House. to medical marijuana. Serving Prince George’s County Since VA doctors aren’t al - “Our hope is that the final Thompson said that the lowed to have open discussions spending bill will input provi - painkillers had a chemical feel - See MARIJUANA Page A 5 A4—February 4—February 10, 2016—The Prince George’s Post COMMENTARY

Riversdale House Museum Barbara A. Mikulski United States Senator for Maryland

Mikulski Focused on Resources and Actions Needed to Keep American Communities and Families Safe From Gun Violence WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator Barbara from traffickers and criminals. With $121.5 million, A. Mikulski (D-Md.), Vice Chairwoman of the the FBI will enhance their capacity to run back - Open to the Public Senate Appropriations Committee and the Com - ground checks, keeping guns out of the hands of merce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies known criminals. The National Instant Criminal PHOTO CREDIT: PG PARKS & RECREATION (CJS) Subcommittee, attended a CJS hearing on Background Check System (NICS) grants will pro - RIVERSDALE HOUSE MUSEUM the Department of Justice’s role in implementing vide $73 million to help states improve the quality Riversdale was one of the most distinctive homes in the region during the early Federal period. Today, the central new executive actions related to gun violence. of criminal and mental health records entered into portion of the house serves as a museum interpreting the lifestyle of an affluent family. The rental areas include a large carpeted ballroom in late 19th century decor as well as a smaller meeting/banquet room and catering kitchen. the system the FBI uses to run background checks. Riversdale House Museum and the Museum Shop are open to the public Fridays and Sundays from 12 noon - 3:30 The following are Vice Chairwoman Mikulski’s There is also $15 million to train local police how remarks, as prepared for delivery: pm year round. Riversdale is available for weddings, receptions, and meetings. For fees and availability, and to to best respond to active shooter scenarios. view contracts, please call 301-864-0420 for more information. “Today’s hearing is our first of the year. I’m “Those are funds for the current fiscal year glad to be back with Chairman Shelby. 2016. For fiscal year 2017, the President has indi - “This hearing tackles the very pressing issue cated he will propose additional funding for hiring of gun violence. On average, 297 Americans are more ATF and FBI agents to investigate firearm shot each day. Eighty-nine—almost a third—die. trafficking and ensure guns are only going into We need to change our nation’s culture of violence the hands of responsible owners. The President by taking steps to keep guns out of the hands of will also propose $500 million to promote mental criminals and those with mental illnesses, without health as a top priority by increasing Americans’ infringing on the right of law-abiding citizens to access to quality mental health care. I look forward Child Watch purchase firearms. to those requests. by Marion Wright Edelman “For too long, Congress has failed to act on “While we look forward to seeing more details measures to keep us safe, including common sense on this funding in the President’s fiscal year 2017 reforms to close the gun show loophole, improve budget, our authorizers have been working on leg - background checks for gun purchasers and islation, too. I cosponsored Senator Feinstein’s strengthen mental health services. bill, the Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dan - A Single Spark “I support the President’s measures on guns. He’s gerous Terrorists Act, to keep people on the ter - couldn’t afford the $1.50 bus fare shared the impact the transit within his constitutional authority to act, and many rorist watch list from purchasing guns. And Sena - “As we marched down the each way and her asthma made passes had made in their lives at of these actions, like adding more Federal Bureau tors Murphy and Cassidy have come together on street, I felt inspired that our the nearly two mile walk to a Town Hall style meeting they of Investigation (FBI) and Bureau of Alcohol, To - the Mental Health Reform Act of 2015, which is scholars pulled together with school especially difficult. She organized. The City Council bacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) agents, have being discussed before the Health, Education, La - pride and courage fighting for often got chest pains while walk - then approved the 2016 budget been strongly supported by this Committee. bor and Pensions (HELP) Committee right now. I what they know to be true. I ing and didn’t always have ac - including $1 million for bus “I look forward to hearing Attorney General support both of these bipartisan legislative efforts. saw big smiles filled with cess to medicine. Often late for passes for middle and high Lynch’s testimony today on the impacts the Pres - “Sadly, deadly gun violence has become all too pride. I also felt angry because school, her grades suffered and school students who are eligible ident’s recent announcement on guns will have on familiar in Maryland and across our nation. No of the disregard for scholars by the end of her 9th grade year for the federal free- or reduced- the Justice Department and the American people, one should be afraid to attend a religious service, but motivated by their willing - she was failing several classes. price lunch program and live one as well as the testimony of the outside witnesses go to school, visit a shopping mall or see a movie ness to fight.” —Tyra Griffith, Other students were con - to two miles from their school. on our second panel. in a theater. Urban Impact’s CDF Freedom cerned about walking through Mariam says, “Freedom Schools “As appropriators, we put money in the federal “We must all pull together—because we are all Schools ® student-teacher unsafe neighborhoods, espe - was the most amazing thing that checkbook. As part of the Omnibus that we just in this together. We need less partisanship and more cially following after-school ac - happened to me ever.” passed with bipartisan support in December, we citizenship. That’s what my constituents want. Honoring Dr. Martin Luther tivities after dark. So for their Communities and children included funding for the Justice Department is That’s what our nation needs. I will keep fighting King, Jr. should sharply remind day of social action, 130 stu - across the country need to be - $29.1 billion, with over $1 billion to help reduce to end violence by working with my colleagues in us that the Civil Rights Move - dents marched to City Hall lieve they can stay on the march gun violence. Congress and supporting the President’s gun safety ment should never just be chap - where Mariam and others testi - towards justice, just as Mariam “What will this $1 billion buy? It will give ATF actions, because we must do more to protect our ters in history books. I was so fied to city leaders about why Bayo is doing. Dr. Martin Luther $840 million to enforce gun laws, trace firearms children and our communities, not only with words, proud of high school students more children needed transit King, Jr. would be proud of the found at crime scenes and keep illegal guns away prayers and vigils, but with actual deeds.” from Seattle, Washington who passes to get to school. The Seat - Seattle students’ actions to break learned how they could make a tle Transit Riders Union sup - down a barrier to children get - difference in the world around ported the children; one leader ting to school. them. They took lessons from told the Seattle Times, “Fifteen the Civil Rights Movement’s dollars per week, or $54 for a Marian Wright Edelman is 1961 Freedom Rides when monthly pass, is too much for President of the Children’s De - Marc Morial, President and CEO Blacks and Whites put their lives low-income families to pay just fense Fund whose Leave No on the line to ride interstate to get their kids to school. For Child Behind ® mission is to en - National Urban League buses into the segregated South. many low-income students, pub - sure every child a Healthy Start, This bold student-led nonviolent lic transit means freedom.” a Head Start, a Fair Start, a Safe action inspired a student-led ac - Mariam became part of the Start and a Moral Start in life tion in 2015 that turned into a Seattle School District-approved and successful passage to adult - victory for many low-income pilot program at the start of the hood with the help of caring Black History Month Serves Not Only to Seattle students who need to ride school year giving transit passes families and communities. For city buses to get to school. This to 50 low-income students. With more information go to Educate, But to Inspire is the power of learning history the bus pass in hand, Mariam www.childrensdefense.org. “Those who have no record of what their History Month and in 1976, President Gerald Ford and learning from history—the was getting to school on time Mrs. Edelman’s Child Watch forebears have accomplished lose the inspira - officially recognized the event, saying, truth can set us free. and her grades soared to all As Column also appears each week tion which comes from the teaching of biography “The last quarter-century has finally witnessed Seattle students, many from and Bs. She and other students on The Huffington Post and history.” significant strides in the full integration of black Rainier Beach High School, —Carter G. Woodson people into every area of national life. In cele - took part in the 2015 Children’s brating Black History Month, we can take satis - Defense Fund Freedom The Prince George’s Post Carter G. Woodson was born in Virginia, 10 faction from this recent progress in the realization Schools ® program at two sites years after the fall of the Confederacy. Working of the ideals envisioned by our Founding Fathers. sponsored by Urban Impact, a The Prince George’s Post as a sharecropper and a miner, he rarely had time But, even more than this, we can seize the oppor - local community-based organi - P.O. Box 1001 15207 Marlboro Pike to attend school until the age of 20. He would de - zation. As part of a national day tunity to honor the too-often neglected accom - Upper Marlboro, MD 20772-3151 vote the rest of his life to study, becoming known of social action, the students plishments of black Americans in every area of Phone: 301-627-0900 • Legal Fax: 301-627-6260 as “The Father of African-American History.” endeavor throughout our history.” learned how they can use their Through his studies, Woodson found that In the intervening 40 years, we’ve seen remark - voices to make policy change. Email: [email protected] African-American contributions to history “were able progress in racial justice, and also heartbreak - Like the Freedom Riders, they Contents © 2016, The Prince George’s Post overlooked, ignored, and even suppressed by the ing setbacks. There are some in our own commu - realized they couldn’t count on writers of history textbooks and the teachers who nity who feel Black History Month is unnecessary riding the bus to get where they Publisher/Senior Editor Editor Legusta Floyd Michal W. Frangia use them.” He concluded that racial prejudice “is —as there were in Woodson’s own day. And their needed to go—most of all, to Typesetter/Page Layout merely the logical result of tradition, the inevitable essential point is valid: Black history is American school—because they couldn’t General Manager/ Jennifer Sheckels outcome of thorough instruction to the effect that History, and its teaching should not be relegated afford it. Legal Advertising Manager Brenda Boice Staff Writer the Negro has never contributed anything to the to one month per year. But that isn’t the point of Over 80 percent of children Christina Williams progress of mankind.” Black History Month. at Rainier Beach High School Legal Advertising Assistant Web Manager Black History Month, which Woodson founded The American Dream remains perilously out qualify for free or reduced price Robin Boerckel Kyler Quesenberry as Negro History Week in 1926, was his effort to of reach for many people of color. The National lunch. The city only provided combat that tradition. Chosen to coincide with Urban League Equality Index, a comprehensive transportation for middle and Prince George’s County, Md. Member National Newspaper Publishers Association, the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick comparison of Black America’s status in the areas high school students who lived and the Maryland, Delaware, District of Columbia Press Association. Douglas, considered heroes by most Black Amer - of economics, health, education, social justice and more than two miles away from The Prince George’s Post (ISSN 10532226) is published every Thursday by icans, the second week in February was set aside civic engagement, stands at 72.2%. school, which disproportionately the New Prince George’s Post Inc., 15207 Marlboro Pike, to celebrate Black history. Racial disparity won’t disappear if we simply impacted students at Rainier Upper Marlboro, Md. 20772-3151. The first year, education officials of only three ignore it. Justice will not be achieved unless we Beach and other high poverty Subscription rate: 25 cents per single copy; $15 per year; states and two cities recognized the event, but by actively seek it out. Black History Month not only schools. The hardships for stu - $7.50 senior citizens and students; out of county add $1; out of state add $2. 1929 it was being promoted in nearly every state serves as a reminder of what our forbearers have dents like sophomore Mariam Periodical postage paid at Southern Md. 20790. in the nation. In 1970, Black students at Kent State achieved, but as an inspiration for the journey that Bayo dramatically illustrated the Postmaster, send address changes to Prince George’s Post, P.O. Box 1001, University celebrated the first unofficial Black remains before us. challenges. Mariam’s family Upper Marlboro, Md. 20772-3151. February 4 —February 10, 2016— The Prince George’s Post —A 5 BUSINESS

The American Counseling Association’s Rushern L. Baker III, Prince George’s County Counseling Corner EDC and Maryland Department of Commerce Is Your Marriage One That Announce Partnership to Expand International Could Use Help? Trade Opportunities for Local Companies When we marry, we all expect the relationship to last forever. County to Welcome 17 New Businesses from the Republic of Mauritius Unfortunately, “forever” turns out to be fairly short for many hosted trade missions over the marriages. Current studies show about 43% of marriages end in By LORI VALENTINE next three years. The County’s PGCEDC divorce (not the 50% figure often quoted), which is still a large collaboration with the Depart - and very painful number. LARGO, MD—This week, ment of Commerce ensures a It’s also a number that could possibly be lowered if more the Economic Development Cor - greater impact at a lower cost to couples pay attention to the signs that a marriage is in trouble poration (EDC) President and local companies interested in and seek out help as soon as possible. CEO Jim Coleman joined trading abroad. Point three is to Unfortunately, it isn’t always easy for a couple to spot serious County Executive Rushern L. complete and execute up to four problems early on. Even in the best relationships, there are bound Baker, III, as he announced the County-hosted, targeted interna - to be trouble spots and disagreements. next phase of his Prince George’s tional trade missions. Point four Arguing about that new paint color for the living room or International! initiative before a is to rapidly prepare and enable what TV show to watch are not problems requiring professional select group of local and inter - our local businesses to export help. Constant disagreements over almost everything is an en - national business leaders at the their goods and services to the tirely different situation. AC Hotel by Marriott in National world. To that end, the Eco - An early sign of serious marital problems is when one partner Harbor. During the presenta - nomic Development Corporation tions, Mr. Baker announced will host a forum with the State feels he or she is giving more than he or she is receiving over an PHOTO COURTESY LORI VALENTINE extended period of time. It could be the job, outside family, chil - Prince George’s County’s part - on exporting goods and services (Left to right: County Executive Rushern L. Baker, III; EDC dren, or any of a hundred other issues that has one person feeling nership with the State Depart - on February 17th at the EDC’s President and CEO Jim Coleman; Maryland Department of he or she is carrying the bulk of the load. And it’s a problem ment of Commerce to execute headquarters in Largo. Commerce International Trade Managing Director Signe that can poison a relationship unless help is found. four high-impact, targeted, and “We want to better position co-hosted trade missions and to Prince George’s County as the Pringle; EDC Executive Vice President Pradeep Ganguly Frequent and severe disagreements are another serious sign conduct training sessions for Gateway to the U.S. market,” when coupled with an inability or unwillingness to resolve those companies interested in export - said EDC President and CEO Jim “Whether a company has excess delegation joined Mr. Baker at disagreements. While every marriage has disagreements, it’s ing goods. Notable attendees at Coleman. “Through the strength capacity that they don’t know the luncheon. One of the former when they’re not worked out but instead left to fester that per - this event included the Ambas - and power of our partnerships what to do with, or is a new ex - delegates, Robert Bruce, Presi - manent damage to the marriage can occur. sador of Malaysia and the Am - with the embassies as well as the porter or experienced exporter, dent and CEO of MedTech Eng - Seeking help for marriage problems doesn’t mean that every bassador of Mauritius, both of State Department of Commerce, the Department of Commerce inuity Corporation, connected marriage will be saved. There are many situations where the whom indicated their intent to fa - County Executive Baker is lever - has a program for them. We with the Xiamen, China tech couple really is better off being apart. cilitate bringing native businesses aging our collective resources to have ten offices around the company, AiTouch and formed But in many cases, what a professional counselor can do is to Prince George’s County. bring Prince George’s County world, and can also provide fi - a strategic alliance for the exclu - help a couple see the reality of their situation and can offer tech - “International trade is the next to the entire world. Our goal nancial assistance in the form of sive distribution of AiTouch’s niques for working more intelligently toward resolving the prob - frontier for Prince George’s is to provide greater opportun- a travel grant for up to $10,000 portable charger in the United lems they face. County,” said County Executive ities for local and international to cover expenses to travel to States. The devices went on sale There are many sources of professional help. Many, though Baker. “We live in a global econ - businesses, which in turn trade shows, business missions in time for Christmas and were not all, clergy are trained in helping couples through marriage omy and it is important for us to translates into more job creation or other international travel.” a huge success, netting more problems. Within the counseling profession there is a counseling be able to go into markets that in Prince George’s County for The event concluded with than $590,000 in revenue on the area specializing in relationship and marriage counseling. You we have not been in before. our residents.” His Excellency Ambassador first shipment. can locate such counselors through the American Counseling There are two things you can’t Moving forward, Prince Sooroj Phokeer, U.S. Ambassa - “The trade mission actually Association website at www.counseling.org. invent anymore: land and loca - George’s County will be an of - dor of Mauritius committing to created an additional line of busi - If you see serious problems in your marriage, seek out coun - tion right next to the nation’s cap - ficial partner with the Maryland bringing 17 business delegations ness that I wasn’t expecting,” seling as soon as possible. Asking for help doesn’t signal the ital. This is what Prince George’s Department of Commerce on its from Mauritius to Prince said Mr. Bruce. “The relation - end of a marriage. Instead, it’s often the beginning of a stronger, County offers the world.” Maryland Partners in Interna - George’s County to discuss in - ships that were created as a result healthier and longer lasting relationship. Highlights of the event in - tional Trade (MAPIT) program. ternational trade and business of the trade mission are spear - cluded County Executive Baker MAPIT will give local compa - opportunities to import technol - heading more job creation op - Counseling Corner is provided by the American Counseling unveiling his four-point, three- nies the tools and services ogy and medicine. His Excel - portunities for me and many of Association. Comments and questions to ACAcorner@counsel - year plan for international busi - needed to ‘Map Out’ opportuni - lency Ambassador Datuk Dr. the other delegates on the trip.” ing.org or visit the ACA website at www.counseling.org ness development. Point one is ties to market their products and Awang Adek Hussin, U.S. Am - to execute 12 Prince George’s services all over the world. bassador of Malaysia also ad - To view highlights from the County locally hosted Interna - “There are several reasons dressed the group and commit - International Business Luncheon, tional Business Development businesses should think about ted to bringing 30 business click here. For more information Summits, in partnership with starting an export business,” said delegations from Malaysia to on the international business op - embassies from targeted coun - Signe Pringle, Managing Direc - Prince George’s County. portunities and future trade mis - tries. Point two is to partner with tor, Office of International In - In September of last year, Mr. sions, contact Pradeep Ganguly Governor Hogan’s Department vestment and Trade, Maryland Baker led a 22 member delega - at [email protected] or of Commerce to execute four co- Department of Commerce. tion to China. Several from that 301-583-4650.

eral Drug Enforcement Admin - Comptroller Franchot Warns Marijuana from A3 istration, according to a CBS symptoms dropped 75 percent in News article. Maryland Taxpayers of Tax patients using medical marijuana. Rosenberg, a former federal Phone Scams How often does Thompson prosecutor in Virginia and Texas, Taxpayers Advised Not to Respond to Suspicious Calls smoke medical marijuana? “As called medical marijuana “a often as I take a breath,” he joke.” According to him, the leaf ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 13, 2016)—With the 2016 tax said. Thompson said he takes of marijuana is not safe and is filing season under way, Comptroller Peter Franchot wants to it every hour-and-a-half to two not effective as a medicine. remind taxpayers to safeguard their personal information by hours, which is how often he Rosenberg’s comment hit being alert to phone solicitation scams aimed at getting their would of taken the Ativan if some nerves with medical mari - money and personal information. he was still on it. juana supporters. A petition call - The Comptroller’s Office recently received calls from con - In Thompson’s eyes, he is ing for President Barack Obama cerned taxpayers about receiving phone calls from someone not addicted to medical mari - to fire Rosenberg has over claiming to work for the State of Maryland. These scammers juana. “I use it like anyone else 28,000 signatures, according to tell taxpayers they owe large sums of money, demand payment would use any other type of Huffpost Politics . and threatened police arrest if the callers don’t comply. medicine,” he said. “If any - Rep. Andy Harris, R-Cock - PHOTO COURTESY WIKKIPEDIA; EVAN-AMOS “I want to assure taxpayers that phone calls like this are scams. thing, it minimizes my use of eysville, is a leading opponent A dried flower bud of the Cannabis plant. The cannabis’ flow - The Comptroller’s Office does not initiate phone calls or emails any other medication.” of medical marijuana. But Har - ers contain many different psychoactive compounds that are asking for confidential information, demanding money or Per - Burnett said that he finds it ris, who is a medical doctor be - used for recreational or medicinal purposes. The plant goes by sonal Identification Numbers (PINs),” Comptroller Franchot said. interesting that some people as - lieves there needs to be more re - many different names: marijuana, pot, weed, dope, Mary Jane, “If you get a phone call like this, please call 1-800-MD-TAXES sume medical marijuana is ad - search on marijuana to see if it etc. The bud is usually either crumbled up and smoked or or email my office at [email protected] and let dicting without looking more has medical value. “We need to mixed with food into an edible. us know about it as soon as possible.” closely at the data. On the flip know one way or another (if) The Comptroller’s Field Enforcement Division investigates side, he said, some patients tak - marijuana has the widespread “There is data that suggest marijuana on a national level, suspicious activity reported by taxpayers. Comptroller Franchot’s ing far more powerful opioid medical uses people claim,” Har - that while 10 percent of individ - would like to see further inves top legislative priority this year is the Taxpayer Protection Act, pain medications dispute their ris said in a U.S. News article. uals who use marijuana may de - tigation on the topic. “I think which provides greater tools to prevent fraud and protect taxpayers. addictive properties. Harris believes that the re - velop a physical dependence, it carefully prescribed medical use The Maryland Comptoller’s Office, like the Internal Revenue search will show people that is significantly lower than a large of marijuana may in fact be ap - Service, will never: Problems with Marijuana marijuana “actually has quite array of other drugs, both illegal propriate and we should follow • Call to demand immediate payment, nor call about taxes Medical marijuana support - limited usefulness in the smoked and legal,” Burnett said. the science as opposed to ideol - owed without first having mailed you a bill. ers still have to convince a lot raw product,” he said. ogy on this issue,” he said back • Demand that you pay taxes without giving you the oppor - of drug enforcement and police However, supporters say Looking Forward in April in an interview for tunity to question or appeal the amount they say you owe. officials who argue that the there is science behind the prod - “The point overall is that you CNN’s documentary “Weed 3: • Threaten to bring in local police or other law-enforcement benefits of cannabis are exag - uct. “It’s just a matter of federal shouldn’t be excluding therapies The Marijuana Revolution.” groups to have you arrested for not paying. gerated. Marijuana is a drug - policy being out of step with that have proven to work for For Thompson and many oth - and a gateway to heavier drugs, both the science and … the pub - some people,” Burnett said. ers living with PTSD the scientific “Please be careful of your personal information, and be sure those officials argue. lic,” he said. According to a He said there has been research can help them lead better to tell your friends and neighbors to be careful of any suspicious “What really bothers me is CNN poll, about 90 percent of progress but it has been an uphill lives. “We need the president to calls,” the Comptroller said. the notion that marijuana is Americans think that patients battle trying to change federal stand up for us and fight for our also medicinal … because it’s should be allowed to use medical regulation on medical marijuana. rights as veterans, because we pro - Media Contact: Vicki Fisher, 410-260-7816 (office) not,” said Chuck Rosenberg, marijuana if their doctor recom - But Obama, who has an in - tect him because he is our com - and 443-534-6259 (cell) acting administrator of the fed - mends it. fluence on legalizing medical mander in chief,” Thompson said. A6—February 4—February 10, 2016—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 Brooklyn Rajon Rondo, Gay-Bashing, Brooklyn and the Beautiful Response to Grade: A- Rated PG-13, a little profanity, an Ugly Hate Crime a scene of fairly discreet sexuality 1 hr., 51 min

Brooklyn is a soft, cozy blan - ket of a movie, capable of pro - ducing content smiles at almost a weapons-grade level. Adapted by Nick Hornby from Colm Toibin’s novel, and directed by John Crowley ( Boy A ), this story of an Irish girl who emigrates to New York in 1951 is sweetly ro - mantic but never sappy, just heartfelt and simple. On December 3 in Mexico City, a hate crime took place And funny! It’s also funny. I on an NBA court. Sacramento Kings point guard Rajon love this movie. Rondo, according to a meticulously documented referree’s The Irish lass is Eilis (pro - report, “aggressively pursued referee Bill Kennedy and had nounced “Ay-lish,” more or less) to be restrained by teammates and escorted off the floor by Lacey, and she’s played by Sacramento team security.” While being “restrained,” Rondo Saoirse (beats me) Ronan, who said to Kennedy, “You’re a mother——— faggot … You’re since Atonement has been stak - a f——— faggot, Billy.” ROTTENTOMATOES ing her claim as one of the best Brooklyn tells the profoundly moving story of Eilis Lacey (Saoirse Ronan), a young Irish Slurs like these are unacceptable in every environment, actresses of her generation. At immigrant navigating her way through 1950s Brooklyn. Lured by the promise of America, and, given its reach and power, should be monitored partic - the outset, Eilis is a meek Eilis departs Ireland and the comfort of her mother’s home for the shores of New York ularly sharply in the world of sports. provincial girl who’s been spon - City. The initial shackles of homesickness quickly diminish as a fresh romance sweeps Eilis Yet in this case, it was even worse: Rondo was going after sored by a kindly priest (Jim into the intoxicating charm of love. But soon, her new vivacity is disrupted by her past, a referee who was widely known in NBA circles to be gay. Broadbent) to come to America. and Eilis must choose between two countries and the lives that exist within. ©Fox Search - Here is where the story, however, takes a turn from the In Brooklyn, Eilis takes a room light in a boarding house with other vile to the inspiring. Instead of doing what most referees do young women, run by the stern in all situations—keeping a low profile no matter how hot but not humorless Mrs. Keogh hen), an adorably pocket-sized be considered a “conflict.” (It we find ourselves increasingly the spotlight—Kennedy decided to go public with his sexu - (Julie Walters). (When a casual Italian-American boy who treats stems from Eilis’s old life in Ire - invested. Emory Cohen’s unas - ality. Speaking to Yahoo! Sports, Kennedy said, “I am proud conversation about skin care her with the sort of chaste gen - land. Can you ever truly leave suming work as the kind to be an NBA referee and I am proud to be a gay man. I am leads to discussion of whether tlemanliness you’d expect from your past behind?) When the boyfriend is also essential. Like following in the footsteps of others who have self-identified Jesus dealt with acne, Mrs. good Catholic kids in the 1950s. trouble does emerge, it’s a Ronan, he creates a fully devel - in the hopes that will send a message to young men and Keogh shuts it down: “Ladies, When he brings Eilis home to doozy—not because it’s big and oped character out of the most women in sports that you must allow no one to make you no more talk about our Lord’s meet his (stereo-)typically bois - dramatic, but because it’s simple basic raw materials. feel ashamed of who you are.” complexion at dinner.”) terous family, she prepares ahead (and relatable), and because it Many feel-good films Following his statement, Rondo—already serving a one- Eilis gets a job at a depart - of time by practicing eating holds the potential for outcomes achieve their warm fuzziness by game suspension—issued not one but two separate apologies. ment store while taking book - spaghetti with the girls at the both joyous and heartbreaking. being phony. They oversimplify NBA Commissioner Adam Silver also said, “I wholeheart - keeping classes at the local col - boarding house. That’s after she Telling a mostly trouble-free a suitor so he’s clearly the edly support Bill’s decision to live his life proudly and openly. lege. She’s homesick at first, and and Tony have this conversation: story is risky, as many mean - wrong choice; they contrive Throughout his 18-year career with the league, Bill has ex - unaccustomed to Brooklyn’s “Do you like Italian food”? dering, pointless films have drama through implausible plot celled as a referee because of his passion, dedication, and hustle and bustle (at least she “Don’t know, I’ve never learned the hard way. When this turns; they use whimsical quirks courage. Those qualities will continue to serve him well both moved in before the hipsters did). eaten it.” low-drama approach works, as in place of character traits. as a game official and as a positive influence for others. While She exchanges tender letters with it does so nicely here, it’s be - does none of that, pre - our league has made great progress, our work continues to “It’s the best food in Brooklyn her mother (Jane Brennan) and cause the characters and their senting instead everyday char - ensure that everyone is treated with respect and dignity.” the world.” sister (Fiona Glascott) back in situations are sufficiently com - acters whose lives follow a fa - In addition, Silver said he would have issued a suspension “Well, why would I not Ireland, and the priest soothes pelling by themselves, without miliar trajectory, yet who are greater than just the paltry one-game punishment but was like it?” her with the assurance that home - antagonists or crises. Eilis is compelling and vivid. It’s the concerned that, if he brought the hammer down, he could sickness, like most sicknesses, These two! hardly a unique creation among authenticity that sells it. If you have effectively been “outing” Kennedy. will leave her soon enough. While Eilis’s new life in movie characters, but Ronan leave this film without a smile A lot of people are not buying what Silver is selling, You know what might help, America has its challenges, the uses her ordinariness to her ad - on your face, you must have thinking instead that the NBA was concerned about the pub - though? Love! And thus she movie is half-over before any - vantage, creating a sympathetic done something wrong. Go back lic fallout of an actual instance of gay-bashing taking place meets Tony Fiorello (Emory Co - thing develops that could really Everylass in whose happiness and watch it again. on an NBA court. As Cyd Zeigler, co-founder of Outsports.com and author of the forthcoming book, Fair Play: How LGBT Athletes Are Claiming Their Rightful Place in Sports , said to me, “The most disappointing and telling part of this entire episode is that the commissioner of the The Educational Gender Gap is Changing, NBA would rather sweep the issue under the rug than deal with it publicly. He could have called Kennedy and worked with him to make this a powerful moment of education and New Study roFughliy n10 pdercesnt m ore women in many aspects of education in attainment, those numbers don’t visibility. Instead, Silver treated it with fear and secrecy. By RACHEL KUIPERS held degrees in some level of OECD countries, there is growing make a difference. Women who The message that sends to gay players in his league is far Capital News Service higher education.The United concern about the underachieve - work full-time, year-round with more damaging than what Rondo did.” WASHINGTON, D.C.— States had a slightly closer gap ment of young men in certain ar - master’s degrees earn 70 cents I agree with Cyd that Silver mishandled this. The only Dozens of countries, including between the genders than average eas, such as reading. Gender dif - to every dollar men with mas - reason we know what happened in Mexico City was because the United States, are making for countries participating in the ferences in student performance, ter’s degrees make, according to of, as ESPN’s Bob Ley put it, “shoe-leather reporting” by progress in reducing gender study: on average, 46 percent of as well as perceptions that some the partnership. Yahoo! Sports. The league chose to keep it quiet, give a one- gaps in areas like education and women had attained a higher ed - fields of education are more ‘suit - The organization looked at game penalty and hope no one would notice. I also agree employment, according to a ucation degree versus 35 percent able’ for either women or men, the rate that women’s pay is in - with Cyd that it is is a false dichotomy to think that Silver’s study released last week. of men, whereas in the United need to be addressed if greater creasing, and based on the cur - choices were just “outing” Bill Kennedy or going for the The study, conducted by the States, 50 percent of women had gender equity in education out - rent rate of change predicted that cover-up. Yet I would also add that Silver’s inaction and his Organisation for Economic Co- attained higher education and 40 comes is to be achieved.” women’s pay won’t be equal to excuses for that inaction are a part of what makes an ugly operation and Development percent of men had a degree. Parents surveyed in all coun - men’s until 2058. story something that could be seen as historic and even hope - (OECD), based in Paris, found Japan and Turkey didn’t follow tries were more likely to expect Rachel Lyons, senior govern - ful—and in these dark times, the need for hope is profound. that of the 42 countries analyzed, the pattern: Japan had gap sizes their sons rather than their ment affairs manager for the or - Kennedy was attacked and, instead of turtling, went pub - 40 made “significant progress” in similar to those of the United daughters to work in science, ganization, said that number rep - lic. By going public, he pushed Silver to speak out and de - narrowing or closing differences States, but with 10 percent more technology, engineering and resents the time it will take for pay fend a meager suspension in very progressive as well as between men and women in areas men having degrees in higher ed - math (STEM) fields, even be - to be equal if nothing is done to sensitive terms (even if they are complete ass-covering such as educational attainment, ucation, and women in Turkey tween children with similar math speed up the process. horse-pucky). pay and employment rates. were only slightly behind the men performance levels. Addition - “We have seen (that) the gap The situation also pushed Spurs coach Gregg Popovich Many of the countries in the in terms of educational attainment. ally, 15 year-old boys were (decrease) has stabilized over the to again be a voice of principle in the world of sports, when survey have advanced economies, Despite women in the United found to generally have lower last few years,” Lyons said. “In he said Kennedy’s disclosure “showed a lot of courage.” as well as higher educational stan - States having higher levels of ed - levels of academic achievement the meantime, women can’t wait, When asked if he was surprised that Rondo would use dards, so it follows that their gen - ucation than men, young women than females of the same age. they’re losing money.” these slurs, he said, “Why would I be surprised? You see it der gaps with higher education at - were found to have lower em - American women also still “If we wait 50 years, all those all the time. It’s unfortunate. It’s disgusting. Bill is a great tainment is closer than it has been. ployment rates than young men. experience the short end of the women will lose tens of thousands guy. He’s been a class act, on and off the court. And as far Based on analyses of two The study also found that women stick with the gender wage gap, of dollars each year to support as anybody’s sexual orientation, it’s nobody’s business. It groups of men and women, one are still underrepresented in math, which exists no matter how the their families and improve the just shows ignorance to act in a derogatory way toward any - made up of subject ages 55 to 64 physical science and computer data is analyzed. That’s accord - economy,” she added. body in the LBGT community … [It] just doesn’t make and the other of subjects 25 to 34, science. Men were five times ing to the National Partnership Benefits such as high-qual - sense. But surprised? Of course not.” the organization found a reversal more likely to study engineering, for Women & Families, a non - ity, affordable child care and an This is also very important. Silver wants to project of the educational attainment gen - manufacturing and construction, profit, nonpartisan organization increased minimum wage the league as being progressive on these issues. But there der gap. In the older group, two and women were three times that advocates for policy changes “would benefit both men and percent more men had attained a more likely to study education. that advance women’s rights. women, and would go a long degree in higher education than The authors of the study wrote Even though women have way toward closing the wage See HATE CRIME Page A 12 women. In the latter group, that “as women now surpass men greater rates of higher education gap,” Lyons said. February 4 —February 10, 2016— The Prince George’s Post —A 7

Calendar of Events EARTH TALK ... What Environmental Factors Are February 4—February 10, 2016 Contibuting to the Autism Epidemic? Dear EarthTalk: plied experience a 66 percent in - creased risk of having a child Senior Days What is the latest thinking on with autism or a developmental Date and Time: Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 8 am –12 noon the environmental causes (if delay. The advocacy group Description: Let’s move and get fit. Seniors (Prince George’s any) of autism? I hear so much Autism Speaks, which con - County residents only) are allowed use of both the fitness center conflicting information I don’t tributed to the funding of the Har - and pool during the above times. know what to believe. vard study, believes that despite Cost: FREE —Bill Stribling, all the emerging data linking Ages: 60 & up Austin, TX toxic exposures to autism, no en - Location: Prince George’s Sports & Learning Complex vironmental influence appears to 8001 Sheriff Road, Landover, MD In the 1980s, about one in cause or prevent autism by it - Contact: 301-583-2400; TTY 301-583-2483 2,000 American kids was diag - self—rather they appear to influ - nosed with autism. Today the ence risk in those genetically pre - Family Art Show & Silent Auction number is around one in 68, ac - disposed to the disorder. Date and Time: Thursday, February 4, 2016, 6 –9 pm cording to estimates from the “It’s important to remember CREDIT: KRIS KRÜG FOR POPTECH (FLICKRCC) Description: Kick off Black History Month celebrations through U.S. Centers for Disease Control that not all mothers exposed to Alysson Muotri at the University of California San Diego Depart - the expression of art. Guests will experience the artwork of local and Prevention’s Autism and De - air pollution during pregnancy ment of Pediatrics is using teeth analysis to identify gene abnormal - artists and participate in a silent auction for an opportunity to take velopmental Disabilities Moni - will have a child with autism and ities in children with autism, even in cases with no previous known home a masterpiece of their own. Refreshments will be served. toring Network. This disconcert - not all children with autism were genetic cause. Cost: Free ing increase has led to intensified necessarily exposed to air pollu - Ages: All ages welcome examination into what environ - tion in utero,” said epidemiologist ence Center. “The enamel of dif - partment of Pediatrics is using Location: Prince George’s Sports & Learning Complex mental factors may play a role in Michael Rosanoff, associate di - ferent types of teeth begins to teeth analysis to identify gene ab - 8001 Sheriff Road, Landover, MD the disorder’s development. A rector for public health at Autism form at different points during normalities in children with Contact: 301-583-2400; TTY 301-699-2544 wide range of exposures have Speaks. “We know autism is a prenatal development. In in - autism, even in cases with no pre - been scientifically linked to complex disorder and underlying fancy, the enamel continues to vious known genetic cause. Par - First Friday Line Dance Social—Cupid’s Edition autism, including air pollutants, genetic and biological factors in - absorb chemicals circulating ents of an 8-year-old autistic boy Date & Time: Friday, February 5, 2016, 6 –10 pm phthalates and other endocrine teract to influence susceptibility. through the baby’s body.” mailed Muotri’s team one of the Description: First Friday Line Dance Socials are back at South disruptors, pesticides such as The next step is to identify the bi - Palmer says the greatest insights boy’s baby teeth, and the re - Tech/Rec! Come dressed to impress in red and white for an Chlorpyrifos, and many more. ological mechanisms that connect from dental analysis may come searchers were able to detect a evening of delight in honor of Valentine’s Day. Price includes Vaccines were considered a lead - air pollution to autism and iden - from looking at chemical expo - mutation in a gene known as light refreshments and all the hits. ing culprit, but more recent re - tify ways to treat if not prevent sures along with gene abnormal - TRPC6. The researchers treated Cost: Resident: $5; Non-Resident: $6 search has proven this connection the harm to brain development.” ities, which may affect one’s vul - the autistic boy with hyperforin, Ages: 18 & up wrong—although the subject still While many studies linking nerability to potentially toxic the active ingredient in St. John’s Location: Southern Regional Technology and Recreation Complex engenders much debate. environmental toxins and autism chemicals. “It’s not necessarily Wort. Dental analysis could po - 7007 Bock Road, Fort Washington, MD A 2014 study by researchers have been inconclusive, one de - genes or environment,” he adds. tentially lead to personalized treat - Contact: 301-749-4160; TTY 301-699-2544 at the Harvard School of Public veloping research approach ap - “It’s likely to be both.” ment for autism, whether the Health found a strong link be - pears to hold great promise. Re - Alysson Muotri at the Univer - cause be identified as genetic, en - Xtreme Teens: 2016 Madden Super Bowl Challenge tween autism and in utero expo - markably, fallen baby teeth can sity of California San Diego De - vironmental or both. XBOX Tournament sure to air pollution: the risk of be used to track a child’s prenatal Date and Time: Friday, February 5, 2016, 6 –10 pm autism was doubled among chil - and infant exposure to chemi - CONTACTS: CDC Autism Spectrum Disorder Page, Description: Who wants to be the 2016 Madden Super Bowl dren of women exposed to high cals—thus allowing scientists to www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/; Autism Speaks, www.autismspeaks.org; Champ? Test your skills against the best youth in the community levels of particulate air pollution determine what environmental Muotri Lab at UCSD, www.pediatrics.ucsd.edu/research/muotri-lab; at this XBOX tournament. during pregnancy. Another 2014 causes may have contributed to UT Health Science Center, www.uthscsa.edu. Cost: Free with Center ID study out of the University of the disorder’s development. ® is written and edited by Roddy Scheer and Doug Ages: 12-17 California, Davis determined that “As a result, we can use teeth EarthTalk Moss and is a registered trademark of Location: Seat Pleasant Activity Center pregnant women living in close like an archeological record,” E - The Environmen - (www.emagazine.com). 5720 Addison Road, Seat Pleasant, MD proximity to fields and farms says Dr. Raymond Palmer of the tal Magazine Send questions to: [email protected]. Contact: 301-773-6685; TTY 301-699-2544 where chemical pesticides are ap - University of Texas Health Sci -

Gymnastics Workshops Date and Time: Friday, February 5, 2016, 4:30 –5:30 pm Description: Looking for a fun activity for your children? Bring them to our gymnastics workshops! These workshops are an open play time for your child to explore gymnastics in a safe and fun environment. Please be aware, these workshops are not structured classes, but open play! Maximum 3 children to 1 adult. Parents are required to be on the floor with the children. Spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Cost: $6/participant Ages: Walking to 12 years Location: Prince George’s Sports & Learning Complex 8001 Sheriff Road, Landover, MD Contact: 301-583-2400; 301-699-2544

Black History Month Programs at Prince George’s County Memorial Library System Branches Date and Time: Saturday, February 6, 2016, 10 am Description: Montpelier Mansion educators present Black His - tory Month programs that explore Maryland and Prince George’s County history. These hands-on programs include scientific ex - periments, historical documents, the making of weather instru - ments and more. Cost: Free Ages: All ages welcome Location: PGC Memorial Library System Branches (Laurel Branch) Contact: 301-377-7817; TTY 301-699-2544 family conversations about plan - Advanced Illness”—A discus - • 6:30 to 8 p.m. June 2—Pre - Hospice from A1 ning for the end of life. sion on the disparity in the use sented by Grief Counselor, Brentwood Arts Exchange All-Screened Video Fest ordinator Allison Kuchar, at the • 7 to 8:30 p.m. April 11— of hospice services by African- Roberta Rook, LCPC, at the Date and Time: Saturday, February 6, 2016, 12 noon –5 pm Prince George’s County Public Presented by Dr. Martin Weltz Americans and strategies to South Bowie Branch Library. Description: Brentwood Arts Exchange presents Video Fest, an Library South Bowie Branch, and Mary Ann Bleeke, LCSW at overcome barrier. • 7 to 8:30 p.m. June 13— open-call feature of short film and video work by regional pro - 15301 Hall Road, Bowie. the Annapolis Regional Library. • 6:30 to 8 p.m. May 3—Pre - Presented by Clinical Specialist ducers. Presented to the public in a social and appreciative at - • 7 to 8:30 p.m. May 4—Pre - • 6:30 to 8 p.m. April 14— sented by the Rev. Brandon Susan Coale, LCSW-C, and the mosphere, the one-day festival is a showcase of known and un - sented by Dr. David Wu and Presented by Business Liaison Brewer, Chaplain, and Business Rev. Janie Blakely, Chaplain, at known talent alike. All entries received will be shown, and a Business Liaison Renee Bland at Karen Bryant at the Prince Liaison Jessica Talley at South the Annapolis Regional Library. panel of judges will select one work to receive the title of “Best the Anne Arundel County Public George’s County Camp Bowie Branch Library. in Festival” and a $300 cash prize. Library Annapolis Regional Li - Springs Senior Activities Cen - “Growing through Grief: More Information Cost: FREE brary, 1410 West St, Annapolis. ter, 6420 Allentown Road, What the Sacred Sorrow of Grief Registration is not re - Ages: All ages welcome “The Best Ending Ever: Hav - Temple Hills. Can Teach Us”—A discussion on quired, however, seating is Location: Brentwood Arts Exchange ing the Conversation”—A dis - “Conversations of Hope: Ex - what “normal” grieving is and limited. Call 443-837-1527 3901 Rhode Island Avenue, Brentwood, MD cussion on how to start important ploring Spirituality at a time of how to give and receive help. for more information. Contact: 301-277-2863; TTY 301-699-2544 Jacobs is currently serving the law. An attorney since 1997, partment of Corrections and Public Reception: Black History Month Exhibition Jacobs from A1 her first term on the Steering she has served as Prince was the first woman elected as Date and Time: Saturday, February 6, 2016, 1 –3 pm “I’ve had the opportunity to Committee and plans to run for George’s County Public Schools President of the Prince Description: Montpelier Arts Center is proud to honor Black serve locally, and at the state level re-election in April for another Board of Education District 5 George’s Correctional Officers History Month with this opening reception celebrating African as President of the Maryland As - term, and will continue to Member for nearly 10 years. Association in 1996. American heritage! sociation of Boards of Educations bring her strategic focus, com - Under her leadership, the district She also served as an adjunct Cost: Free (MABE), and I am quite honored petent legal skill, thoughtful realized double-digit gains by professor at the University of Ages: All ages welcome to now serve in a leadership role judgment and strong work students on the previously ad - Maryland, University College, is Location: Montpelier Arts Center on a national level,” said Jacobs. ethic to the position. ministered Maryland School As - a published author, and was twice 9652 Muirkirk Road, Laurel, MD “CUBE focuses on equity and ac - “Advocating and serving on sessments (MSA) in every grade nominated for Prince George’s Contact: 301-377-7800; TTY 301-699-2544 cess for students who have the behalf of children is my passion in both reading and math. County Gladys Noon Spellman greatest challenges in school dis - and certainly inspiring on a na - Jacobs retired as Chief of Public Service Award. Public Reception: “Re-Invention” by Winston Harris tricts across our country. This role tional level,” said Jacobs. the Office of Responsibility The NSBA represents state Date and Time: Saturday, February 6, 2015, 1 –3 pm will provide me with even greater Jacobs has a distinctive and and Legal Affairs at the rank school boards associations and Description: By combining printmaking techniques, digital ma - insight and opportunity to learn effective public service career of Lieutenant Colonel from their more than 90,000 local nipulation, hand-colored processes, and recycled past artwork, and impact urban education.” in education, public safety, and Prince George’s County De - school board members. Winston Harris seeks to produce images that provoke and pro - mote self-awareness and spiritual enlightenment. Cost: Free Ages: All ages welcome Your Newspaper Location: Montpelier Arts Center The Prince George’s Post of Legal Record 9652 Muirkirk Rd., Laurel, MD 20708 Contact: 301-377-7800; TTY 301-699-2544 Call (301) 627-0900 | Fax (301) 627-6260 Serving Prince George’s County Since 1932