Bowie 042315 by The Gazette

UNANIMOUS DECISION County bans substance harmful to aquatic life. A-5

SPECIAL PUBLICATION

INSIDE SELECT EDITIONS

Gazette-Star SOUTHERN AND CENTRAL PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNT Y

SPORTS: Bowie High shifts the balance in county’s ﬂedging lacrosse competition. B-1

DA I LY U P DAT E S AT G A Z E T T E . N E T

Thursday, April 23, 2015

25 cents

Fiscal 2016 budget

County looking at $20M loss in state school funding Equivalent to 300 teaching positions, CEO says

graphic Cost of Education Index, or GCEI, a discretionary formula that provides additional funding for more urban, high poverty school districts with higher education costs at 100 percent. Gov. Larry Hogan (R) has said he will not release funds beyond 50 percent of the GCEI. Montgomery and Prince George’s counties benefit the most from the GCEI. “He could still decide to appropriate that money. That would be a wonderful surprise,” Tobias said during the school board’s April 16 meeting. “The Legislature cannot force the governor to spend that money. It is discretionary spending.” Tobias said the governor has given no indication that he would do so, however. “He may have a change of heart,” Tobias said. “But I’m not

BY JAMIE ANFENSON-COMEAU STAFF WRITER

The Prince George’s County Public School system is looking at an approximately $20 million reduction in expected state funding as part of the fallout of the 2015 General Assembly session. School system CEO Kevin Maxwell said a $20 million reduction is the equivalent of 300 teaching positions. “That’s not saying we’ll cut 300 teachers, that’s just what $20 million looks like,” Maxwell said. Demetria Tobias, the school system’s Annapolis lobbyist, reported April 16 that the General Assembly voted to fund the Geo-

Bowie girl ﬁghts against childhood obesity n

Youth organized her third Fun Run and Fitness event BY RAECINE WILLIAMS SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

See LOSS, Page A-8

Baker pitches education funding plan to public n

FROM JUNE EVANS

Jodi Evans (left), 11, of Bowie competes Saturday in a tug-of-war with help from a girl who attended Evans’ third annual Fun Run and Fitness event for children at Bowie High School.

Top ofﬁcial says county can’t rely on state for more money

erty values to go up. That doesn’t happen without great schools, and anyone who tells you otherwise is lying,” Baker said to a gathering of approximately 80 people April 14 at Capitol Heights Elementary School. “This isn’t a tax increase, it’s an investment.” The community meeting was the ﬁrst of six scheduled throughout April and May. Baker is pursuing public support for his proposed budget, which includes property and telecommunications tax hikes expected to provide an additional $133 million for the school system above the current year

BY JAMIE ANFENSON-COMEAU STAFF WRITER

A better educational system doesn’t come without a cost, County Executive Rushern L. Baker III (D) told Prince George’s County residents at a community meeting. In this case, the cost is increased taxes to fund an additional $133 million over last year’s school funding. “Everyone wants their prop-

See BAKER, Page A-8

Jodi Evans of Bowie is out to change the nation’s statistics on childhood obesity, starting with the children in her own backyard. Saturday made the third year the 12-year-old hosted her Fun Run and Fitness event, which invited children age 5 to 16 to participate in a day of exercise, games and entertainment with their families.

“It’s just another event that people can have fun at, with an important message to send out that I believe everyone will receive,” Jodi said as children of varying ages completed laps around the track of Bowie High School behind her. “We are just trying to ﬁght childhood obesity in the safest and healthiest way possible, which is getting more exercise, eating healthier foods and not staying on diets,” she said. “Because truly, to me, that’s not the answer.” Jodi herself is no stranger to an active lifestyle. The student at Robert Goddard French Immersion School in Greenbelt is an

avid dancer and a three-year junior Olympic champion in Taekwondo, who often spent upwards of 18 hours a week training. “It was a sport that I was always good at,” Jodi said. “I really enjoy it.” Besides the exercise and activities, which included an obstacle course, games of tag and mini competitions, Jodi also organized a healthy cooking demonstration, with the help of Howard County-based Healthy Little Cooks, complete with giveaways to allow participants to make some of the foods on their own.

See OBESITY, Page A-8

Bowie’s historic Governor’s Bridge closes again Crossing initially cut off in 2013 due to structural concerns n

KIRSTEN PETERSEN STAFF WRITER

Bowie resident Bill Wilson frequently travels to Anne Arundel County using Governor’s Bridge, a one-lane historic crossing over the Patuxent River.

But since the bridge closed last month, Wilson said he must take the long way around via Md. routes 50 and 424. This isn’t the ﬁrst time Wilson has had to adjust his route — the bridge only reopened a year ago after 10 months of structural repairs. Now, residents are divided on whether Governor’s Bridge should continue carrying trafﬁc. “It’s an inconvenience, but we learn to live with it,” Wilson

said. Governor’s Bridge, which was erected sometime between 1907 and 1912, closed in May 2013 after problems with the underpinnings were discovered, said Paulette Jones, a spokeswoman for the Prince George’s County Department of Public Works and Transportation. The bridge reopened last March, Jones said. During a regular six-month inspection of the bridge last

month, structural issues were identified with the truss, the load-bearing element of the crossing that looks like a series of triangles, Jones said. It will take two months minimum for department officials to analyze the problem and determine the feasibility of repairs, Jones said. “Their main priority is they want to ensure that it’s safe,”

See BRIDGE, Page A-8

Residents: Upper Marlboro Town Hall too pricey Renovation and addition estimated at $1.23 million

could cost nearly twice as much as town ofﬁcials want to spend. Sketches of a 4,200-squarefoot Town Hall were presented by Rob Manns, the principal architect of White Marsh-based Manns Woodward Studios, during the Upper Marlboro town meeting April 13. The plans suggest converting the current Town Hall to the police department and building an addition with ofﬁces

KIRSTEN PETERSEN STAFF WRITER

Upper Marlboro residents say they’re reeling from sticker shock after seeing plans for a $1.23 million Town Hall renovation and addition, a project that

INDEX Automotive Calendar Classiﬁed Entertainment Opinion Sports

NEWS B-9 A-2 B-7 B-4 A-9 B-1

and a meeting room that would seat 40. Steve Sonnett, president of the Upper Marlboro board of commissioners, said a renovation is necessary because the current building is energy inefﬁcient and does not have enough ofﬁce space for town business. He added that the Town Hall, which is approximately 1,677 square feet, is too small to entice town

CELEBRATING OUR WORLD More than 230 attend Bowie Earth Day concert.

A-4

Christ Community Church 1925 Mitchellville Rd Bowie, Md. 20721

organizations or out-of-town groups to hold events there, Sonnett said. “If we had a little bit better space we could start generating more interest by the community,” Sonnett said. “They would have a place to meet and integrate themselves into the sense of being part of the town.”

See HALL, Page A-8

RECYCLE

A & K Family Learning Place, Inc.

Summer Academic & Physical Fitness Camp

7am until 6 pm daily 4 1/2 thru 12 years old 1935401

MANNS WOODWARD STUDIOS

A sketch by White Marsh-based Manns Woodward Studios shows the courtyard entrance of a redesigned Upper Marlboro Town Hall.

June 22nd thru July 31st, 2015

Before & Aftercare Shuttle Service available AT NO ADDED COST Call for more details 240 508-5558 or 240 508-5561

THE GAZETTE

Page A-2

EVENTS

Thursday, April 23, 2015 bo

BestBet

6 p.m., Bowie Town Center, 15606 Emerald Way, Bowie. This food, wine and music festival is set to offer complimentary bites from a variety of local restaurants, wine tastings from more than 10 wineries, an antique car showcase, various vendor and artisan displays and more. There will also be two stages of live entertainment featuring different genres of music, including jazz, rock, classical, Latin, funk and gospel. Other entertainers on the event lineup include dancers, magicians and comedians. Contact 301-860-1401.

Mounted Games Across America, 8

APRIL 23 Library Spring Book Sale, 10 a.m. to

5 p.m., The South Bowie Branch Library, 15301 Hall Road, Bowie. The East Area Cluster of Libraries will hold its’ sale of children and adults books to beneﬁt the Largo, South Bowie Branch and Upper Marlboro Libraries. Contact the library for more detail. Books range from $.50 to $2. Contact 301-850-0475.

Money Matters: Where Does My Money Go? 6 to 8 p.m., Unity EDC, 5801

Allentown Road #308, Suitland. Are you ﬁnding that you are not completely sure where your money goes each month? This workshop shows you how to manage your money by preparing a personal spending plan and identifying ways to decrease spending and increase income. Contact 443-692-9428 or volunteer@mdcash.org.

APRIL 24 The PFC Coalition 2nd Annual Nonproﬁt Conference, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.,

Largo Community Church, 1701 Enterprise Road, Mitchellville. We have secured a great list of organizations and businesses to participate at the PFC Coalition 2nd Annual Nonproﬁt Conference. Our theme is “Building Strategic Partnerships that Work.” Contact 301-772-1552. The 2nd Annual Nonproﬁt Conference, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Largo Community Church, 1701 Enterprise Road, Mitchellville. The theme is “Building Strategic Partnerships that Work.” Contact 301-7721552. Friday Night Live Concert Series , 7 to 9 p.m., Bowie Town Center (Food Court Pavilion), 15606 Emerald Way, Bowie. Performing this week is Split 2nd. Spend Friday evenings with Bowie Town Center for live music and family time. Contact 301-860-1401 or RHolley@Simon.com.

APRIL 25 Race for Rieg 5K, 8 a.m., C. Elizabeth Rieg Regional School, 15542 Peach Walker Drive, Bowie. This is the ﬁrst Race for Rieg 5K. We are a school that serves only special needs students. We are committed to giving students the best experiences possible, including the opportunity to participate in community events, like this 5K. Our goal is to raise awareness and funds for our students and to increase community partnerships with our school. All proceeds from the race will directly beneﬁt our students. Cost is $25. Contact 301-3900200 or patricia.agustin@pgcps.org.

a.m., The Show Place Arena, 14900 Pennsylvania Ave., Upper Marlboro. The Prince George’s Equestrian Center will host the Mounted Games Across America. Contact 301-952-7900; TTY 301-952-7998.

Chuck Pacholkiw Memorial Scholarship Race, 9 a.m., Bowie High School

Track, 15200 Annapolis Road, Bowie. The third annual Chuck Pacholkiw Memorial Scholarship 5K Race/Walk. The event has been set up to honor the memory and accomplishments of BHS Class of 2005 graduate Chuck Pacholkiw who succumbed to Adenocarcinoma cancer in the fall of 2010. Race registration is $22. Contact kprice@ pgcps.org. Vintage Travel Trailer Open House, 1 to 4 p.m., Marietta House Museum, 5626 Bell Station Road, Glenn Dale. The local chapter of the Wally Byam Caravan Club International will host their Spring KickOff Rally at Marietta House Museum. The Club’s vintage Airstream travel trailers will be open to the public from 3-5 pm. Don’t miss this great opportunity to view Airstream trailers models from 1950 to 1015. Contact 301-464-5291; 301-699-2544. Spring Stroll, 2 to 4 p.m., Marietta House Museum, 5626 Bell Station Road, Glenn Dale. Put a spring in your step and a hat on your head and come on over to Marietta for the Spring Stroll. Hats will be judged by a local community leader. Patrons will also tour the house and view the exhibit on celebrity hats. Contact 301-4645291; TTY 301-699-2544.

APRIL 26 Bowie CLAW Meet & Greet Animal Adoption Event, 1 to 3:30 p.m., Front of the

Food Court at the Bowie Towne Center, 15606 Emerald Way, Bowie. We will be introducing the public to a number of adoptable dogs from the Prince George’s County Animal Services Facility in Upper Marlboro, in hopes of ﬁnding them a forever home. Contact www.bowieclaw.org. Spring Fashion and Talent Show, 4 to 6 p.m., Indian Queen Recreation Center, 9551 Fort Foote Road, Fort Washington. Do you want to see what fashions are hot this summer? Come support your friends at Indian Queen Recreation Center as they model the latest fashions and accessories. Cost is resident: $5; non-resident: $6. Contact 301-839-9597; TTY 301-203-6030. Annual Spring Bridal Show at Oxon Hill Manor, 4 to 8 p.m., Oxon Hill Manor,

6901 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill. Choose from over 30 of the area’s select wedding specialists at this Spring Bridal Show. The

‘Savor Bowie’ Festival, 11 a.m. to

SAT

Send items at least two weeks in advance of the paper in which you would like them to appear. Go to calendar.gazette.net and click on the submit button. Questions? Call 301670-2070.

MORE INTERACTIVE CALENDAR ITEMS AT WWW.GAZETTE.NET event includes an exclusive bridal gown rafﬂe. Space is limited; reservations are suggested by calling Oxon Hill Manor or emailing ohmanor@pgparks.com. Cost is resident: $7; non-resident: $9 (advance payment) resident: $10; non-resident: $21 (at the door). Contact 301-839-7782; TTY 301-699-2544.

APRIL 27 Public Forum, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Inglewood Ofﬁce Centre 2, 1801 McCormack Drive suite 140, Largo. For local, small and minority businesses in Prince George’s County. Contact 301-952-4919. Family Game Night, 7 p.m., Accokeek Library, 15773 Livingston Road, Accokeek. Put on your game face and get ready to compete at Family Game Night. Featuring fun and exciting games such as: Uno, Junior Scrabble, Trouble and many more. The games and light refreshments will be provided. Contact 301-292-2880.

A&E

Rolling down the river: The Nile Project mixes cultures, music together at The Clarice. SPORTS Seven county athletes and relay teams from 20 county schools head to Philadelphia to compete in the Penn Relays. Check online for coverage. Why is the pollen count high? What causes thunder? Email weather@gazette.net with your weather-related questions and they may be answered by an NBC 4 meteorologist. Get complete, current weather information at NBCWashington.com

GAZETTE CONTACTS

APRIL 28

The Gazette-Star – 13501 Virginia Manor Road

Black Literature Book Discussion, 6:30

p.m., Oxon Hill Library, 6200 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill. Pearl Cleage’s “Things I Should Have Told My Daughter: Lies, Lessons & Love Affairs.” Contact 301-8392400.

APRIL 29 Writing a Successful Business Plan, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Maryland Women’s Business Center, 14000 Jericho Park Road, Bowie. Understand why you need a strong business plan. Learn how to develop each critical piece of your plan. Workshop includes comprehensive outline and additional resources. Fee: $35. Contact angie@ marylandwbc.org.

Laurel, MD 20707 Main phone: 240-473-7500, Fax: 240-473-7501 Jeffrey Lyles, managing editor: 240-473-7508

The Gazette (ISSN 1077-5641) is published weekly for $29.99 a year by The Gazette, 9030 Comprint Court, Gaithersburg, MD 20877. Periodicals postage paid at Gaithersburg, Md. Postmaster: Send address changes. VOL. 18, NO. 14 • 2 SECTIONS, 20 PAGES

CORRECTIONS The Gazette corrects errors promptly on Page A-2 and online. To comment on the accuracy or adequacy of coverage, contact editor Jeffrey Lyles at 240-473-7508 or email jlyles@gazette.net.

Gallery Africa “where fashion is art”

Ethnic and authentic African clothing, jewelry and accessories in stock for the entire family

Shop online at www.galleryafrica.com 2 convenient locations: 3217 Donnell Drive Forestville, MD 20747

301-736-8107

2830 Campus Way North, Unit 616 Lanham, MD 20706

301-773-8661

1935568

The Centre at Forestville Woodmore Towne Centre

1931028

1931027

smile

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

A new is just an office

2015 COMMUNITY GUIDE An excellent opportunity to reach the community, your customers, clients, and patients!

PUBLISHES MAY 21ST!

visit away

Benefits to Advertisers • Extensive distribution throughout Prince George’s County. • Distribution to Real Estate offices, Community Centers, Libraries & Chamber offices. • This guide will be given to any new resident in Prince George’s County that request local information from the Chamber. • Excellent editorial content: Local Schools, Town Council, Chamber Leaders, Local Organizations, Service Centers, Police, Health and much more. • Tremendous value with great rates. Let the community know about you, your product, service, or where you are located, and that you support the community. The 2015 Community guide is the WHO? WHAT? WHERE? and WHY? Guide to upper, middle and lower Counties. This booklet is inserted into every paper in the County.

Call Chauka Reid to Reserve Space Today!

240-473-7588

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS!

• Metal-free tooth-colored fillings • Implant tooth replacements • Affordable, effective tooth bleaching • Denture Replacements for difficult-fit patients • Veneers

1935569

1935577

Dr. Leonard Bers Master in the Academy of General Dentistry

Melwood Professional Center

9650 Marlboro Pike Upper Marlboro

301-599-0303 Visit my website at www.DrBers.net

THE GAZETTE

Thursday, April 23, 2015 bo

Page A-3

Upper Marlboro native pens Teacher celebrates decade behind thriller set in Prince George’s the scenes as drama club director Springdale school instructor debuted third original piece n

n Writer draws from experience in segregated county BY

MICHELLE V. MONCRIEFFE

ARLENE EDMONDS

SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

Upper Marlboro is where author and journalist John Guerra learned his major life lessons, which made for a ﬁtting subject for his new novel, “Just Us: Horror in a Small Maryland Town.” The ﬁctional novel details a family and neighborhood set in the then-segregated and largely rural Prince George’s County of the 1970s as it evolved on the heels of the Civil Rights Movement and gradually became more suburban. Guerra, a 1976 Frederick Douglass High School graduate, said his family moved to Upper Marlboro from Rockville after his parent’s divorce. His mother rented a dilapidated 1883 farm house whose only heating source was the kitchen’s wood stove. “Much of my story is in this book,” said Guerra, a Floridabased daily news reporter. “I think the house was haunted. As soon as we moved in we began hearing noises and sounds like whispers. It was very spooky. My sister said she would wake up because she heard someone talking to her in the dark.” Guerra’s book details life in Upper Marlboro and the countryside roads off Largo and Landover that are terrorized by a serial killer in the neighborhood. “There are a lot of surprises in the book,” Guerra said. “So many people have told me that though. It’s an easy read that the characters really are very complex. It is kind of like our life moving to Upper Marlboro. On the surface it seemed like a [simple] story, but there was a lot of healing and depth to our

For her 10th production of the Jaguar Players of Charles Herbert Flowers High School in Springdale, Shanelle Ingram wanted to explore life’s struggles in her third original piece “Love...Peace...& Soul.” The play, which kicked off April 17 and runs through May 2, helps tie in two of Ingram’s passions. “Everyone knows I love my job and working with children in Prince George’s County,” said Ingram, a county resident who serves as the director and producer for the Jaguars. “I wanted to write something special to mark the anniversary,” said Ingram, who graduated from Eleanor Roosevelt High School in Greenbelt. “It’s about life struggles. I use music to explore some of that. No matter what struggle life brings, keep on pushing forward, keep the faith and don’t give up.” With an audience ﬂying in from as far as Florida to hear renditions of hits by Stevie Wonder, Earth, Wind & Fire, Whitney Houston, Grandmaster Flash and more renowned artists, excitement is running high. “I have lot of difficult classes and drama class is a release for me. We dance and have fun,” says senior Janae Johnson, 17, of Capitol Heights. “Ms. Ingram is more than a teacher - she has become a second mom, because she really believes in everyone. She is an important person in my life.” Like many of the seniors, this will be Johnson’s last per-

JOHN GUERRA

“Just Us,” a novel by Upper Marlboro native John Guerra, details a ﬁctional account of a serial killer based in Prince George’s County. experiences.” For Guerra, hearing about the 50-year anniversary in Selma brought back memories of the segregation in Prince George’s County and how members of his own family harbored some of the prejudiced sentiments. Since he was younger when he relocated to a predominantly African American section, he adjusted quickly and embraced Upper Marlboro’s diversity. “This book takes the reader through the heights and depths of moving towards justice,” Guerra said. “One thing I learned living and going to school in Upper Marlboro is we are all more alike than we are different.” Upper Marlboro resident

Debbie Sutton agreed. For Sutton, who moved from Largo three years ago, the book was “a blast from the past,” she said. Sutton said the book caused her to remember the area physical and social landscapes of the Civil Rights Movement era. Sutton said she does recall some racial tension by the time she and Guerra were in fourth grade when school desegregation and busing came to Prince George’s County. “We were young enough to adjust to a diverse group of friends,” Sutton said. “Most of those our age were the ones who wound up making friends and had more social interactions across racial and social class lines.”

“I wanted to give back to this area, which gave me so much.” Shanelle Ingram, Charles Herbert Flowers drama teacher formance for Jaguar Player’s, before she heads off to the University of Pittsburgh with a Fulbright scholarship to study engineering. Ingram, a Delaware State University graduate, said she came home to teach in Prince George’s County, a decade after completing a master’s degree in counseling psychology at Bowie State University. “I wanted to give back to this area, which gave me so much,” Ingram said. Over the past decade, Ingram has coached hundreds of students through performances. “All of my students are in college,” Ingram said. “We’re excited our youth in Prince George’s County are doing positive things. The children have worked together all year. We started in September until April, with rehearsals from three to eight hours a day and they are still honor roll students, keeping a grade point average ranging from 3.0 to 4.3.” The heavy workload seems overwhelming, but according to students, the drama actually alleviates the drama. “I am going to miss the family environment and the music,” said senior Nyah Drummond, 18, of Bowie who’ll be attending Morgan State University in the fall.

A&K Family Learning Place, Inc.

Summer Academic & Physical Fitness Camp

June 22nd thru July 31st, 2015 Christ Community Church 1925 Mitchellville Rd, Bowie, Md. 20721 7am until 6 pm daily 4 1/2 thru 12 years old Before & Aftercare • Shuttle Service available AT NO ADDED COST Call for more details 240 508-5558 or 240 508-5561 Register Now!!! $90.00 Registration Fee includes Camp Tee Shirt www.akfamilylearningplace.org

1935402

1935397

Maryland Soccer Academy Elevate Your Game

Summer College Prep and Conditioning Camp

Dates: 7/13 - 7/24 Division I Sports and Learning Complex - Landover MD - 7:30-10 pm Dates: 7/20- 7/31 Division II Week 1 Allen Pond Park - Bowie MD - 7:30-10 pm Week 2 Sports and Learning Complex - Landover MD - 7:30-10 pm Dates: 7/27- 8/7 Division III Allen Pond Park - Bowie MD - 7:30-10 pm

Camp Fee: $1,245

FIRST 10 GET A 15% DISCOUNT

1935386

u THE CLEANING AUTHORITY u DENTAL LAND PEDIATRICS u EAST DELIGHT u EVERY SECOND COUNTS u FANCIER SPA & SALON u FIT PRO STUDIO

u GAMES WORKSHOP u GREENFIELD MEDICAL SUPPLY u HAIR TALK u HILLTOP DRY CLEANERS u HILLTOP WINE & SPIRITS u JAZZERCISE u JERSEY MIKE’S SUBS u JOYFUL JUMPS PLAY CENTER

u KID’S FIRST SWIM SCHOOL u LT NAILS u MANUEL’S SHOE REPAIR u MY EYE DR. u OLD TOWN PET GROOMING u PAPA JOHN’S PIZZA u PHENIX SALON SUITES u THAT LOOK HAIR GALLERY

1935391

u SIMPLY SOUTHERN AMERICAN GRILLE u 7-ELEVEN u ATI PHYSICAL THERAPY u ATKINS REAL ESTATE u BANK OF AMERICA u BOWIE BRACES u THE CAKERY u CHESAPEAKE GRILLE & DELI

• 25 Hours of Field Training • Preseason Collegiate Level Training • Professional and Certified Coaches and Trainers • Limited to 40 Players Per Session • Register with MSA and ELEVATE YOUR GAME

www.maryland-soccer-academy.com

This is Javon Minopp’s second year as a performer with the Jaguar Players. “When I heard about the drama club and I knew I had to join it,” said the 19-year-old from Upper Marlboro. “It is fun at times, for the most, and a great experience because we learn so much from her.” “Love...Peace...& Soul” will be held beginning at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday and May 1 and May 2 at the Helena Nobles-Jones Auditorium at Charles Herbert Flowers High School, 10001 Ardwick-Ardmore Road in Springdale. For ticket information, contact dramaboosters1@ gmail.com or call 301-6368000, Ext. 81180.

The County Executive has submitted a budget that includes an unprecedented tax increase along with many fee increases. These funds are targeted to elevate public education, and it is hoped, will improve property values and improve the County’s business climate. Few would question the connection of a strong school system to scaling up all aspects of our County. Strong schools will certainly provide a positive narrative on luring other investments. However, it is incumbent upon all of us to raise two questions: what are the assessment strategies to ascertain whether the investment is reaching the maximum yield; and, what changes are needed to unbuckle both state and county procurement that will increase small/medium business opportunities? Targeted assessment tools will provide strong data on impact and increasing business will yield revenue for sustaining support for public education and other infrastructure. The Chamber looks forward to engaging in conversation as an advocate for our schools and to promote a better business climate in the County.

David Harrington

President & CEO Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce www.pgcoc.org

1935829

THE GAZETTE

Page A-4

Thursday, April 23, 2015 bo

Mikulski seeks passage of fair pay for women legislation BY ALICIA MCELJANEY CAPITAL NEWS SERVICE

Sen. Barbara Mikulski (DMd.) urged her colleagues on Equal Pay Day 2015 last week to make equal pay for equal work not just a dream but a reality. Mikulski was joined by her fellow female Senate and House Democrats at a press conference April 14 to mark what they described as an “unhappy” Equal Pay Day. The day acknowledges the amount of extra time it takes a woman to earn what her male counterparts make in 12 months. This year, the day came 104 days after the beginning of 2015. In Maryland in 2013, women made 85.5 cents for every dollar made by men, which is high compared to the national average of 78.3 cents, according to the National Women’s Law Center. The center also reported that pay disparities are much greater for minorities, with African-American women making 64 cents for every dollar paid to their white male counterparts nationally, and Latinas making 56 cents. “We want equal pay in our law books and equal pay in our checkbooks, and to ﬁnally get rid of the harass-

“We’re tired of being sidelined, redlined, pinkslipped, harassed and intimidated.” Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.) ment that women face in the marketplace when they even ask about how much pay they make,” Mikulski said. Mikulski urged Congress to take up the Paycheck Fairness Act, which would require the Department of Labor to work with employers to decrease the difference between what they pay men and women and to collect and share wage information based on gender. Mikulski reintroduced the act in the Senate on March 25, while at the same time, U.S. Rep. Rosa DeLauro (DConn.) reintroduced it in the House of Representatives. The bill is awaiting action in the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, Matt Jorgenson, Mikulski’s press secretary, said. “You know, I’ve been at

this awhile and I’m really getting frustrated,” said Mikulski, who recently announced she will retire from the Senate when her term expires in 2017. “I’m really getting volcanic. … We are tired of being sidelined, redlined, pinkslipped, harassed, and intimidated, and we want to not only to dream of equal pay for equal work, we want to make it a reality,” Mikulski said. U.S. Sens. Mazie Hirono, (D-Hawaii) and Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.), who also spoke at the press conference, praised Mikulski for her work. “Barbara Mikulski has been fighting this for years and years … and therefore it is time the Paycheck Fairness Act is passed,” Hirono said. DeLauro added that unequal pay hurts all Americans, and she hopes the act will be passed while Mikulski is still in office. “She has no intention of spending her remaining time in the Senate coasting,” DeLauro said. “I can’t think of a more fitting capstone for Sen. Mikulski’s career.” After basking for a few moments in the applause from her colleagues and other advocates, Mikulski urged those in attendance to fight for equal pay. “We need to get out there and just fight,” Mikulski said. “We need to square our shoulders, put our lipstick on and pass paycheck fairness.”

BILL RYAN/THE GAZETTE

Waso Taiko Group members (from left) Joanna Park of Severn, Amanda Gardner of Bowie and Stephanie Heichelbech of Odenton practice their drumming for the ﬁrst Earth Day concert and art exhibit Saturday at the Bowie Center for Performing Arts.

Bowie hosts Earth Day concert Event featured local musicians, student art

KIRSTEN PETERSEN STAFF WRITER

Nature-themed music, ﬁlm and visual art were featured Saturday at the Bowie Center for Performing Arts during the city’s Earth Day Concert and Art Exhibit. More than 230 people came out to the event, the ﬁrst of its

kind organized by the Bowie Green Team, said Kristin Larson, a sustainability planner with the city. “This was a really big event,” Larson said. “This is up there with the [Bowie Green] Expo so it was a really great turnout.” Cellists from the Bowiebased Suzuki Cello Studio and a ﬂute quartet from the Category 5 Wind Ensemble performed in front of a silent ﬁlm created by Bowie resident Kali Belden.

Each Service as Personal as the Individual Family-Owned and Operated

1935738

Pre-Arrangements Cremation Out of Town Arrangements Complete Funeral Services Complete Personalization Services

A Free Bible Seminar Coming to District Heights April 25, 7:00PM

1954107

1935388

301-805-5544

6512 NW Crain Hwy (Rt. 3 South) Bowie, MD 20715

www.beallfuneral.com

Spring Cleaning, Downsizing, Simplifying? Let us help you sell your items and turn your

Clutter into Cash! Place your advertisement today

CALL TODAY 301-670-7100 1935737

156388G

*Merchandise for sell only, excludes real estate, rentals and autos

1931444

2 weeks, $20*

1935394

They were followed by the Choraleers, an audition-only subset of the Bowie Senior Chorale and the SGI Japanese Taiko Drummers, led by Bowie resident Amanda Gardner. There was also artwork on display by students from Rockledge Elementary School in Bowie, Oxon Hill Middle School in Oxon Hill and Bowie High School in Bowie. kpetersen@gazette.net

THE GAZETTE

Thursday, April 23, 2015 bo

County bans toxic substance

Experts say runoff is harmful to aquatic life

-/ E - "" "1-

ÂŁxxĂ&#x201C;n Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2DC;>ÂŤÂ&#x153;Â?Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192; ,`Â°

Â&#x153;Ă&#x153;Â&#x2C6;i]

Ă&#x17D;Ă¤ÂŁÂ&#x2021;Ă&#x17D;xĂ&#x201C;Â&#x2021;xÂ&#x2122;Ă&#x17D;Â&#x2122;

BY JAMIE ANFENSON-COMEAU STAFF WRITER

Ă&#x17D;Ă&#x201C;Ă¤x *Â?>Ă˘> 7>Ă&#x17E;

7>Â?`Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;v]

Ă&#x17D;Ă¤ÂŁÂ&#x2021;nĂ&#x2021;Ă¤Â&#x2021;ÂŁĂ&#x2C6;Ă&#x2C6;Ă&#x2C6; ÂŁĂ&#x17D;{nĂ&#x2021; >Â?Ă&#x152;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x201C;Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;i Ă&#x203A;i Â>VĂ&#x20AC;Â&#x153;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x192; vĂ&#x20AC;Â&#x153;Â&#x201C; >Ă&#x20AC;Â?Â&#x153; Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x20AC;iÂŽ ÂŁÂ&#x2122;Ă&#x17D;xnĂ&#x201C;Ă&#x2021;

ÂŁÂ&#x2122;Ă&#x17D;xĂ&#x2021;nn

janfenson-comeau@ gazette.net

City set for Saturday fundraiser

The Bowie Town Center will host the ďŹ rst Savor Bowie event from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday The event is presented by Bowie-based Concerts for Causes, which is raising money to provide musical instruments to underprivileged youth, said spokesman Brett Murray. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are all sorts of statistics that show that kids who learn to play instruments go on to do better academically,â&#x20AC;? Murray said. Murray said the event will feature food and wine tastings, an antique car showcase, a number of different vendors and 12 different bands performing. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s free, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to be a lot of fun,â&#x20AC;? Murray said. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; JAMIE ANFENSON-COMEAU

/- 7 t

>Â&#x17D;i ,iĂ&#x192;iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x203A;>Ă&#x152;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x192; Â&#x153;Ă&#x153; vÂ&#x153;Ă&#x20AC; Â&#x153;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x192; >Ă&#x17E;t

Prince Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s waterways and aquatic life will soon be healthier thanks to a new bill banning a once-commonly used pavement sealant. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a lot of work still to do, but this bill will go a long way towards helping clean up our waterways and make Prince Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s County a healthier county,â&#x20AC;? said County Councilwoman Mary Lehman (D-Dist. 1) of Laurel. The Prince Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s County Council voted unanimously Tuesday to ban coal tar sealant, effective Jan. 1, 2016, to allow time for implementation and public education, said Lehmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s policy analyst Matthew Dernoga. Coal tar sealant is used to seal asphalt and concrete surfaces in parking lots, driveways, airport runways and playgrounds. Coal tar is created during the production of steel and coal gas, said Kenneth Yetman of Beltsville, a retired aquatic ecologist. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As an aquatic ecologist working for over 30 years in Maryland, I can tell you that in urban areas PAHs show up in almost every sediment sample we take,â&#x20AC;? said Yetman, who retired from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is a major problem in the Anacostia River watershed where U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has documented high numbers of lesions and tumors on ďŹ sh in the river.â&#x20AC;? Lehman said Prince Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s County Department of Public Works does not use coal tar sealant any longer. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is really aimed at private industry usage. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really unhealthy and it contaminates waterways with this complex hydrocarbon compound that has been shown to be somewhat carcinogenic,â&#x20AC;? Lehman said. Dan Smith, spokesman for the Bladensburg-based nonprofit Anacostia Watershed Society, said coal tar sealants release polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, or PAH, into the waterways and air. PAHs have been shown to be toxic to aquatic life, and carcinogenic in humans, Smith said. Washington, D.C., banned the use of coal tar sealant in 2008, and Montgomery County banned its use in 2012. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Banning the use of coal tar sealants in Prince Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s County, home to nearly one-half of the watershed, would complete protection for the Anacostia River watershed. It would also prevent further contamination of the Potomac and Patuxent rivers,â&#x20AC;? Smith said.

, - 6

Page A-5

ÂŁÂ&#x2122;Ă&#x17D;ÂŁĂ&#x2C6;ÂŁÂ&#x2122;

>Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x20AC;iÂ?]

{ÂŁĂ¤Â&#x2021;nÂŁĂ&#x17D;Â&#x2021;Ă¤Ă¤{{

/ĂĽĂ&#x2019;Â&#x160;Â? @Ă&#x17D;

ÂŁÂ&#x2122;Ă&#x17D;ÂŁĂ¤Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2C6;

Â&#x2DC;`Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x203A;Â&#x2C6;`Ă&#x2022;>Â? -Â&#x2026;Â&#x153;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x192; Ă&#x152; >VÂ&#x2026; />LÂ?i Ă&#x17E; 9Â&#x153;Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x20AC; "Ă&#x153;Â&#x2DC; *iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x192;Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC;>Â? Â&#x2026;ivÂ°

ÂŁÂ&#x2122;Ă&#x17D;xĂ&#x17D;Â&#x2122;Ă&#x201C;

THE GAZETTE

Page A-6

Another fun filled event from The Gazette!

Thursday, April 23, 2015 bo

Woman ﬁghts for county memorial n

Filmmaker says symbol is not religious BY

KIRSTEN PETERSEN STAFF WRITER

HILTON WASHINGTON DC NORTH/GAITHERSBURG

WE’RE BACK!! JUNE 19, 2015 • 4-8 PM

Laugh, Shop & Mingle!!

Sponsorships &Vendor Booth Space Now Available!! Place your business in front of eager female shoppers! Great way to strengthen your brand, gain new clients, sell your products or create awareness of your services.

RESERVE YOUR BOOTH OR SPONSORSHIP TODAY! Call 301-670-7100 LNO@gazette.net

1931455

1935570

As a child, Renee Green said she saw the Bladensburg Peace Cross as a symbol for world peace. Now, as an adult, Green has committed much of the past year to ensuring that the symbol remains in place. Green, 52, of Annapolis is producing a documentary called “Save the Peace Cross” and is the sponsor for the World War I memorial’s nomination to the National Register of Historic Places. Green grew up in Prince George’s County and visits Bladensburg regularly as a board member of the Elizabeth Seton High School alumni association. The documentary is a response to a lawsuit by the American Humanist Association, which argues the Peace Cross is a religious symbol on government land that appears to only honor Christian servicemen. “A lot of people sit back and they think, ‘That’s a shame,’ but not everyone is actually going to do something,” Green said. “I thought, ‘I can do that. I can make a difference here with my time and my talent.’” Green interviewed supporters of the Peace Cross and plaintiffs in the lawsuit. She also researched the lives of the 49 men named on the memorial. As she learned more about the Peace Cross, she discovered that it was not in the National Register of Historic Places, which is a list of historic sites in the United States that are worthy of preservation, according to the National Park Service. Marion Hoffman, a former Bladensburg council member and the current chairwoman of the town’s Patriotic Committee, said she could not think of a more appropriate site for the National Register than the Peace Cross. “It’s just a way of remembering those who gave us our freedom, who continue to keep us free,” Hoffman said. “What

RENEE GREEN

Renee Green, 52, of Annapolis stands near Peace Cross in Bladensburg in 2014. She made a documentary to explain why it should remain located on Annapolis Road. could be more historic than that?” With assistance from the Maryland Historic Trust and the county’s Historic Preservation Commission, Green completed the National Registry paperwork for the Peace Cross. She said the memorial’s age, integrity and signiﬁcance meet all of the registry’s qualiﬁcations — the Peace Cross is more than 50 years old, it looks fairly the same as it did when it was erected, it is associated with a historic event and it significant to architectural history, as it was designed by craftsman John J. Earley, who developed a process for producing exposed aggregate concrete. “If it had been in there before, you can’t have it removed. You can’t have it destroyed,” Green said. “I don’t think this lawsuit would have gone anywhere.” One of the lawsuit’s plaintiffs, Fred Edwords, 66, of Greenbelt said the only concern in court is the location of the “40-foot Christian cross,” as it is an unconstitutional use of a

religious symbol on public land. “There are parks around, churches around, where it could be moved,” Edwords said. “If it were moved to an area that was not tax-payer supported and not implying government endorsement, that would be ﬁne.” Green said she hopes the registry nomination, will bring awareness to the lawsuit and be a “game changer” for the preservation of the memorial. “In order for people to really make a decision, they had to know the history. They have to understand it,” Green said. “It’s a World War I memorial dedicated to 49 men who paid the ultimate sacriﬁce for our freedom. It represents peace.” The Historic Preservation Commission accepted the nomination of the Peace Cross to the National Register during the April 21 meeting. The recommendation will now move to the local and state government for approval. kpetersen@gazette.net

THE GAZETTE

Thursday, April 23, 2015 bo

Page A-7

POLICE BLOTTER This activity report is provided by the Prince Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s County Police Department as a public service to the community and is not a complete listing of all events and crime reported.

District 2 Headquarters, Bowie, 301-3902100 Glenn Dale, Kettering, Lanham, Largo, Seabrook, Woodmore, Lake Arbor, Mitchellville and Upper Marlboro.

APRIL 13 Theft, 15300 block Norwalk

Court, 1:08 p.m. Theft, 16100 block Eckhart Road, 1:55 p.m. Sexual assault, Ardwick Ardmore Road/Jefferson St., 3:29 p.m.

APRIL 14 Vehicle stolen, 7100 block Hanover Pky, 7:14 a.m.

Robbery on commercial property, 6900 block Laurel Bowie

Road, 9:34 a.m.

Residential break-in, 3300

block Poplar Drive, 6:45 p.m.

APRIL 15 Assault, 10200 block Everley Terrace, 1:31 a.m. Theft, 11400 block Kettering Terrace, 2:35 a.m. Theft, 14300 block Gallant Fox Lane, 4:24 a.m. Vehicle stolen, 5000 block Brown Station Road, 7:20 a.m. Theft, 14700 block London Lane, 8:47 a.m. Theft, 9600 block Lottsford Road, 10:21 a.m. Vehicle stolen, 16600 block Governors Bridge Road, 11:58 a.m. Theft, 1700 block Albert Terrace, 2:16 p.m. Theft from vehicle, 12500 block Fairwood Pky, 2:56 p.m. Theft, 3600 block Elder Oaks Blvd, 5:00 p.m. Theft, 15600 block Emerald Way, 6:04 p.m.

APRIL 16 Theft from vehicle, 4700 block

Boston Way, 7:07 a.m.

Theft, 3000 block Nutwood Lane, 8:35 a.m. Robbery, 5000 block Brookdale Court, 11:18 a.m. Theft from vehicle, 1500 block Pebble Beach Drive, 4:00 p.m. Vehicle stolen, 2800 block Citrus Lane, 4:28 p.m. Theft, 3900 block Town Center Blvd, 6:19 p.m. Break-in, 8700 block Race Track Road, 6:41 p.m. Theft, 2600 block Boxtree Drive, 8:21 p.m.

APRIL 17 Assault, 1300 block Southern Ave, 1:07 a.m. Vehicle stolen, 1400 block Pickering Cir, 5:26 a.m. Theft from vehicle, 1400 block Pickering Cir, 6:52 a.m. Theft from vehicle, 3000 block Angel Place, 7:09 a.m. Assault, 5400 block Barker Place, 10:28 a.m. Theft from vehicle, 10500 block Campus Way, 3:23 p.m. Theft, 15300 block Emerald Way, 4:58 p.m. Theft, 2900 block North Grove, 5:49 p.m. Theft, 1900 block Southwood Court, 5:53 p.m. Theft, 8700 block Brae Brooke Drive, 6:52 p.m. Robbery, 8100 block Good Luck Road, 7:04 p.m.

APRIL 18 Theft, 13900 block Central Ave, 12:51 a.m. Theft from vehicle, 4200 block Forbes Blvd, 9:06 a.m. Residential break-in, 4900 block Reston Lane, 11:00 a.m. Theft from vehicle, 10500 block Campus Way, 1:24 p.m. Theft from vehicle, 10500 block Campus Way S, 1:38 p.m. Assault, 700 block Harry S Truman Drive N, 9:36 p.m.

APRIL 19 Theft from vehicle, 14000 block Gullivers Trl, 3:14 a.m. Theft, 7000 block Glenn Dale Road, 10:05 a.m. Theft, unit block of Watkins Park Drive, 10:51 a.m. Theft, unit block of Watkins

ONLINE For additional police blotters, visit www.gazette.net Park Drive, 11:24 a.m. Assault, 12400 block Sadler Lane, 11:39 a.m. Theft, 4300 block Skipton Court, 12:50 p.m. Theft from vehicle, 16200 block Pond Meadow Lane, 12:54 p.m. Theft, 7100 block Crain Highway Ne, 2:00 p.m. Vehicle stolen, 1300 block Tiverton Place, 7:36 p.m.

District 4 Headquarters, Oxon Hill, 301-749-4900. Temple Hills, Hillcrest Heights, Camp Springs, Suitland, Morningside, Oxon Hill, Fort Washington, Forest Heights, Friendly, Accokeek and Windbrook (subdivision in Clinton).

APRIL 13 Vehicle stolen, 5100 block Indian Head Highway, 1:45 a.m.

Theft, 6800 block Oxon Hill Road, 11:23 a.m. Theft from vehicle, 3800 block St. Barnabas Road, 1:39 p.m. Theft from vehicle, 8300 block Bella Vista Terrace, 7:03 p.m. Theft, 6800 block Oxon Hill Road, 7:56 p.m. Theft, 4900 block Mercedes Blvd, 9:42 p.m.

APRIL 15 Theft from vehicle, 4700 block

23rd Pky, 5:26 a.m.

Theft from vehicle, 12800 block Jackson Drive, 6:14 a.m. Vehicle stolen, 5038-B Beech Place, 7:11 a.m. Theft, 4900 block Brentley Road, 9:51 a.m. Theft, 11500 block Old Fort Road, 10:09 a.m. Commercial property break-in,

5200 block Indian Head Highway, 10:35 a.m. Assault, 2500 block Olson St., 11:07 a.m. Theft, 2500 block Southern Ave, 11:42 a.m. Theft, 6600 block Temple Hill Road, 2:02 p.m. Theft, 15700 block Livingston

Vehicle stolen and recovered,

Oxon Hill Road/Livingston Road, 2:31 a.m. Robbery, 3000 block Marquis Drive, 2:47 a.m. Theft from vehicle, 4700 block Henderson Road, 4:22 a.m. Vehicle stolen, 4000 block 28th Ave, 7:48 a.m. Theft from vehicle, 3000 block Branch Ave, 9:30 a.m. Vehicle stolen, 6400 block Entwood Court, 11:22 a.m. Theft, 2400 block Corning Ave, 2:01 p.m. Theft from vehicle, 9900 block Wenzel Lane, 6:33 p.m. Theft, 5200 block Indian Head Highway, 7:00 p.m. Theft from vehicle, 4700 block Birchtree Lane, 7:42 p.m. Vehicle stolen, 7200 block Crafford Place, 11:57 p.m.

APRIL 14 Carjacking, 6200 block Rose-

croft Drive, 12:31 a.m. Robbery, 1400 block Southern Ave, 2:04 a.m.

Road, 3:19 p.m.

Residential break-in, 1500

block Southview Drive, 5:40 p.m. Vehicle stolen and recovered,

6900 block Sourwood Lane, 6:06 p.m. Assault, 6200 block Auth Road, 7:26 p.m. Vehicle stolen, 500 block Wilson Bridge Drive, 9:55 p.m. Theft, 900 block East Swan Creek Road, 10:29 p.m. Residential break-in, 500 block Wilson Bridge Drive, 11:19 p.m.

APRIL 16 Vehicle stolen and recovered,

2600 block Fairlawn St., 6:17 a.m. Theft from vehicle, 1100 block Palmer Road, 6:50 a.m. Commercial property break-in,

9500 block Allentown Road, 7:23 a.m. Vehicle stolen, 5100 block Henderson Road, 9:34 a.m. Vehicle stolen, 3400 block Brinkley Road, 9:59 a.m. Residential break-in, 4600 block Birchtree Lane, 11:24 a.m. Theft from vehicle, Dallas Place/Pohanka Place, 2:37 p.m.

Theft from vehicle, 5700 block

Auth Road, 3:01 p.m.

Theft from vehicle, 3400 block Brinkley Road, 5:27 p.m. Residential break-in, 1200 block Southview Drive, 11:18 p.m. Theft from vehicle, 5700 block Linda Lane, 11:49 p.m.

APRIL 17 Vehicle stolen, 2500 block Iverson St., 12:22 a.m. Theft from vehicle, 2300 block Medinah Ridge Road, 1:31 a.m. Vehicle stolen, 9600 block Traverse Way, 3:18 a.m. Theft from vehicle, 2900 block Pumpkin St., 4:09 a.m. Vehicle stolen, 2100 block Washington Overlook Drive, 6:52 a.m. Theft from vehicle, 5400 block Auth Road, 12:02 p.m. Theft, 6200 block Livingston Road, 1:42 p.m. Theft, 5700 block Allentown Road, 1:57 p.m. Theft, 3100 block Branch Ave, 2:08 p.m. Residential break-in, 1400 block Southern Ave, 3:35 p.m.

Spring Cleaning, Downsizing, Simplifying?

Let us help you sell your items and turn your

Clutter into Cash! Place your advertisement today

2 weeks, $20*

CALL TODAY 301-670-7100 1931459

*Merchandise for sell only, excludes real estate, rentals and autos

Emergency Services at Bowie Health Center

Emergency medical services for adults and children Quicker than a traditional Emergency Room Board certified doctors, with a reputation for excellence Caring and highly skilled nursing staff 15001 Health Center Drive

(Off Northview Drive across from Bowie Town Center)

Open 24 hours, Seven days a week

301-262-5511

www.bowiehealthcampus.org

1935801

1935382

THE GAZETTE

Page A-8

OBESITY

Continued from Page A-1 “It’s an effort for an event, but it’s an effort that’s transcended into my child’s entire existence,” said Jodi’s mother, June Evans. “I think the skills that she’s learned are going to help her when she goes to high school, college and even as an adult.” Jodi’s discipline, maturity and health-consciousness earned her a place as the youngest member of the Alliance for a Healthier Generation Youth Advisory Board when she was 9. The American Heart Association and the William J. Clinton

HALL

Continued from Page A-1 Sonnett said the building would cost $1,236,239 while soft costs such as design, engineering and furniture, would be $325,899. The board of commissioners is targeting a total cost under $700,000. “We all were sitting there dumbfounded. When you talk about over a million dollars, we’re not that big,” said resident Linda Pennoyer. “I would absolutely love a bigger Town Hall, but if that means that kind of money, I would hold the meetings in my living room.” This was the third plan offered by Manns Woodward Studios and Upper Marlboro-based Petro Design/Build Group. The board of commissioners have

BRIDGE

Continued from Page A-1 Jones said. “We’re hopeful it can be repaired but we really won’t know until they’ve done their thorough analysis.” Brian Shallcross, the general manager for the Bowie Baysox baseball team, said in a statement that the bridge closure presents a “minor inconvenience for fans,” as some spectators use the crossing to reduce their travel time on Crain Highway. “We understand the best interest is for the bridge to just get ﬁxed, so we hope the Department of Public Works and Transpor-

157008G

Foundation founded the alliance, which focuses heavily on the issue of childhood obesity. Jodi became one of 21 students nationwide selected to serve on the board, but the alliance wasn’t the only group that recognized her initiative. Bowie councilwoman Diane Polangin (Dist. 2) invited Jodi to come to a Bowie City Council meeting to announce her first Fun Run and Fitness event. “Nine years old and this young lady came up and spoke to the entire City Council and asked them to save to day and support her,” Polangin said. “Now she’s 12, it’s her third annual, I haven’t missed them and I won’t miss

them. I will support this little girl. I see a huge future for her and I’m so very proud to have her as one of our citizens.” Jodi’s father, Codi Evans, said she is self-motivated and focused on prioritizing what she needs to do to be healthy and be a good mentor to others. Jodi said that she was happy her friends and family came out to support her, but was also pleased to see the turn out from the community. “There are people that I’ve never seen before, but they’re not strangers because they have the same beliefs that I do in health,” Jodi said.

rejected larger, more modern designs in the past six months to cut the cost and ﬁnd the best ﬁt for the town. Manns said the third plan was a savings of more than $800,000 from the previous design, which featured a larger facility and meeting room, but he said town officials will need to “do their homework” to cut down further on expenditures and soft costs. “If they want to spend $700,000 I think it’s feasible for them to do something but it’s not going to get them to satisfy the initial goals we established,” Manns said. Resident Brian Callicott said he was “flabbergasted” by the cost and said it would overwhelm the town’s budget. Renovating the current building sounded more appealing than constructing an addition, although he said

more meeting space could beneﬁt Upper Marlboro down the road. “We have plenty of space to do normal things, but for the future I think it would be kind of nice to have a space where we can handle those types of events,” Callicott said. Sonnett said the board of commissioners may look at completing the renovation and addition in stages to make the project more affordable. Infrastructure needs, such as widening the town’s narrow sidewalks and roads, may take precedence over the Town Hall effort. “We’re not operating in the red, but it would seem inappropriate to put a lot of money into a Town Hall and not fund these other needs,” Sonnett said.

tation will keep everyone in the loop and think Baysox baseball is worth the additional time needed for an alternate route,” Shallcross said. Wilson said he would like to see the bridge ﬁxed or replaced with a modern crossing. “I’d love to see that bridge be modernized,” Wilson said. “That would be wonderful.” As a historic site, all repairs that could affect the historic look of the bridge must be approved by the county’s Historic Preservation Commission, said liaison Fred Stachura. Repairs to the truss would require a work permit by the commission, Stachura said. John Scoulios, the president

of the Longleaf HOA, said the bridge, located less than a mile from the community, should not shut down. He added that permanently closing the bridge could change the integrity and ecology of the area, which has been a ﬁshing spot for decades. “We’ve thought about it ourselves,” Scoulios said. “You’re literally playing with Mother Nature.” Closing off the bridge last time did have one benefit, Scoulios said — there’s less trash tossed on the road. “We noticed we didn’t have to clean up as often,” Scoulios said.

kpetersen@gazette.net

BAKER

Continued from Page A-1 budget. Baker, along with school system CEO Kevin Maxwell and school board chair Segun Eubanks, provided an overview of recent gains in the school system before taking questions audience members submitted on index cards. Baker said that Montgomery County contributed $1.5 billion, or 67 percent, of its school system’s $2.3 billion current year budget. Prince George’s, in contrast, contributed $630 million — or 35 percent — of its $1.8 billion current year budget. The budget struggles in Annapolis between the governor and the General Assembly over school funding this legislative season have demonstrated the county can’t rely on the state for most of its funding, Baker said. Baker said tax caps approved by voters in 1978 have hurt the county’s ability to fund education, and that a 2012 law allowing counties to circumvent tax caps to fund education allows the county to account for vagaries in state funding. “The only reason I can do that is because the state decided

LOSS

Continued from Page A-1 holding my breath for that.” Prince George’s County receives the largest portion — $40 million — so a 50 percent reduction in funding will mean a $20 million budget loss, Maxwell said. In the ﬁnal days of the session, the General Assembly passed Senate Bill 183, which would mandate GCEI funding at 100 percent beginning in Fiscal 2017. The bill currently sits on the governor’s desk, and Tobias said she was unsure if it would survive a veto. “We’re still waiting for the dust to settle,” Tobias said. The school system has submitted a budget with a county request of $763.2 million, approximately $133 million more than last year’s county funding. County Executive Rushern

Thursday, April 23, 2015 bo it’s not going to give us more money,” Baker said. Robert Adams, president of the Capitol Heights Elementary PTSA, said Baker’s pitch sounded good, but he’s not convinced. “I have to give County Executive Baker credit, he did a very good job selling it,” Adams said. “I’m kind of leery when they ask for more money, and I want to know where the money’s going.” Maxwell said the additional funding would go to fund improvements such as competitive teacher pay, arts and language education, pre-kindergarten expansion, digital literacy and other improvements. Maxwell is promising to raise graduation rates from the current level of 76.6 percent to 90 percent and move the county school system from next to last into the top 10 by 2020, but said that’s only possible if the school system is adequately funded. Maxwell noted last year’s graduation rate improvement of 2.5 percent. “We can do this, but we need the resources to do this. If we continue to gain at 2, 2.5 percent per year, we will be in the top 10 in ﬁve years. Do the math,” Maxwell said.

Renee Fairchild recently bought a new home in Capitol Heights, and said she is wary of any proposal to raise her taxes. “I think we can use the resources we already have better,” Fairchild said. Baker’s proposal also includes 110 county employee layoffs and ﬁve furloughs for all employees. Capitol Heights resident Darlene Williams said the tax increases concern her less than the layoffs. “I have no problem with them raising taxes, they haven’t been raised in over 30 years,” Williams said. “But you’ve got all these people in government with six-figure salaries — I’ve been working like I have a six-ﬁgure salary — but they should take cuts. These people shouldn’t be losing their jobs.” Baker said the layoffs have not yet been determined, but that there is simply no money available. “The increase in taxes can only be used to go to schools,” Baker said. “We have to make some serious decisions, or we will be bankrupting the county.”

L. Baker III (D) has proposed a budget that includes tax increases to fund the additional $133 million. Maxwell said the school system would not increase its county request to compensate for the loss in state funds. “The reality is that if we don’t get the total amount of money we requested, regardless of how it is restructured between local and state funding, then we’re not going to be able to provide all the services, probably not going to be able to provide a lot of things we want to be able to do,” Maxwell said. School board chairman Segun Eubanks said the reduction in GCEI funding highlights the county’s need for additional local funding. “I think that our need for more sources of funding exists, whether or not the GCEI is funded at 100 percent, but I certainly think this adds to the

sense of urgency,” Eubanks said. Maxwell’s proposed budget includes expansion of arts integration programs, career academies, full-day prekindergarten, peer teacher review programs, foreign language instruction, Talented and Gifted instruction, digital literacy and dual enrollment programs. Maxwell said it is too soon to tell how the $20 million loss would affect his proposed budget, but that he is still hopeful the GCEI might still be funded at 100 percent. “There’s a possibility that the governor will change his mind. The money is clearly available in the state budget. He’s just saying he’s not going to allocate it. Whether he softens that position or changes his mind, we need to wait and see,” Maxwell said.

janfenson-comeau@ gazette.net

Gazette-Star

Forum

Thursday, April 23, 2015

Page A-9

Traveling toward better transparency

Long before former Prince George’s County executive Jack B. Johnson was sent to prison for corruption, he made headlines for an issue that plagues many governments: his travel plans. In 2008, Johnson visited Africa on county business, but failed to divulge important details in advance, to include the cost and length of the trip, countries being visited and identities of the people along for the ride. And while the trip was intended to help forge business partnerships in Africa, the secrecy early on — and the county’s $30,000 price tag for the trip — caused a negative impression among residents that seemed to outweigh the positives. Government travel remains a contentious

OUROPINION

issue, especially in areas where there is little or no transparency. Bladensburg is working to make sure it is not one of those areas. Town staff members, in an effort to improve government transparency, have recommended changes to travel rules such as clearly identifying in budget documents the seminars and conferences that council members attend on taxpayers’ dime. Too often, the expense is vaguely listed as professional development. In addition, upon return, ofﬁcials would also provide oral and written reports about what they learned.

“When we do professional development, it’s not for us,” Mayor Walter James said. “It’s for us to better lead the community, to help us grow the community. That’s the goal.” It’s a very simple plan — one that it seems most governments would already have in place — and, if followed, it could yield enormous beneﬁts. Residents want to know that their taxes aren’t being squandered, and the only way ofﬁcials can provide that assurance is by providing full disclosure of how the money is being spent. Of course, Bladensburg has other critical details to work out. There are questions about the $27,000 annual travel budget proposed for the mayor and four council

members, especially as the county struggles to recover from the Great Recession. And concerns are likely to remain about leaders’ choices in travel — are they opting for costly conferences at sought-after destinations over more beneficial activities closer to home? Traveling has its benefits. It allows officials to witness firsthand how other communities have resolved common problems, helps bring new ideas and assists with leadership skills. However, if the value of the travel can’t be demonstrated, then it’s not worth the cost to taxpayers or government trust. Hopefully, Bladensburg’s efforts will allow residents to better make that determination.

LETTERS TOT HE EDITOR

Keep bags from ﬂying around neighborhood It is not difﬁcult to ensure plastic grocery bags (and the plastic wrappers around newspapers) are recycled in our grocery stores. Certainly, we can cut down use of plastic bags by using reusable bags (and some have nice designs and nice slogans on them). After depositing my groceries in my house, I collect my reusable bags by the door where they are ready for me to grab next time I go out to the car. With

them are any plastic bags that have accumulated and I don’t need for other use. They all go back to the car (I hide them in the trunk) when I next leave the house, ready for my next shopping trip. This is not hard, it is not inconvenient and it is an Earth-friendly and easy way to live.

Ann Reindollar, Laurel

‘I do not want cats in my yard’

2014 FILE PHOTO

Joyce White of Bowie petitions an incoming Walmart Superstore outside Duvall Village shopping center in Bowie in July.

Duvall community ‘deserves better’ In response to Nina Albert’s letter, our community wishes to clarify our position and the careful reasoning behind it. Overall, we feel a 24-hour Super Walmart is not appropriate for Duvall Village, a small, neighborhood plaza only 100 feet from the nearest homes. We are especially concerned about the following issues, none of which Ms. Albert addressed in a satisfactory manner: • Crime A number of studies have shown that where Walmart goes, crime follows. A study of 551 Walmart stores nationwide reported an average of 269 police incidents annually. That is roughly one call to police every 32.5 hours. On average, once every two months, a Walmart will be the site of what the FBI terms a “serious crime,” including assault, murder, rape, kidnapping, robbery and auto theft. About 80 percent of these crimes occur in the parking lot, which is extremely disturbing to those of us, many of whom have young children, who live close by. This level of crime is unacceptable anywhere and especially in the middle of a neighborhood. • Economic Impact While Walmart claims they will be creating jobs, multiple studies have demonstrated that Walmart actually causes a net loss in jobs in surrounding communities. On average, for every two jobs Walmart creates, they destroy three others by forcing other businesses to reduce their workforces or close down entirely. Per Walmart’s own ﬁgures, 50 percent of Walmart employees make less than $25,000 annually, and many employees are not eligible for beneﬁts. As a result, many workers are forced to rely on social services, which cost taxpayers millions — an

average Super Walmart in Maryland costs taxpayers an estimated $1.3 million annually. We can’t afford to work at Walmart, and taxpayers can’t afford to subsidize the proﬁts of America’s richest corporation. • Property Values Ask yourself: Would you invest hundreds of thousands of dollars to live with shopping carts in your yard? To worry about who might be trespassing through your property in the middle of the night? To hear delivery trucks unloading from 5 a.m. until 1 a.m.? To deal with a Super Walmart’s trafﬁc? These concerns are, contrary to what Ms. Albert said, supported by evidence. To quote the concluding paragraph of the study cited by Ms. Albert, “there may still be negative externalities that affect households that live very close to a Walmart ... it is possible that in certain cases a new store may actually decrease housing values due to externalities.” A different study out of Colorado College says, “proximity to one or more big box stores delays home sales and diminishes home property values in that area.” We encourage members of our community to maintain a healthy skepticism about claims made by Walmart — they stand to make millions from this store, while we simply want to maintain our peaceful neighborhoods, protect local businesses and have access to viable employment opportunities. This is our community, and we deserve better than a 24-hour Super Walmart. For links to all of the studies mentioned above, please visit www. DuvallDeservesBetter.org.

Jennifer Dwyer, Clemmie Strayhorn and Chanel Smith, Bowie

Send us your letters Share your thoughts on Prince George’s topics. All letters are subject to editing. Letters must include the writer’s ﬁrst and last name, address and telephone number. The phone number will not be published; it is for veriﬁcation purposes only. We do not run anonymous letters. Letters selected may be shortened for space reasons. Send letters to: Editor, The Gazette, 13501 Konterra Drive, Laurel, MD 20707. E-mail them to princegeorges@gazette.net.

After reading several letters in your newspaper about feral cat colonies, I, too, would like to “set the record straight.” After doing research on the Internet, one can ﬁnd as many examples of failures for TNR as successes. Currently, my community has nine feral cats roaming the neighborhood. TNR may be a long-term ﬁx but not a short-term one. I understand TNR feral cats cannot reproduce, but it will take several years before the population decreases to a manageable number or is nonexistent. Other cats come into the neighborhood to take their place through cat owners releasing their “domestic” cats into the wild because they do not want to take care of them or feel “why should I feed my cat when there are cat loving people feeding them for free in the wild.” I have an immediate problem that I would like to have addressed. I would like cats permanently removed from my yard and surround-

Vanessa Harrington, Senior Editor Jeffrey Lyles, Managing Editor Glen C. Cullen, Senior Editor Copy/Design Will C. Franklin, A&E Editor

Gov. Hogan campaigned to change Maryland, but his budget actions will actually shortchange Maryland. With his initial proposal to cut $144 million from public school, and now he’s refusing to release almost $70 million in education funding passed in bipartisan legislative budgets. This threatens the progress of our top-notch public schools. With school systems making decisions right now to raise class sizes and reduce positions, he should stop playing political games with our children’s future and submit a clean supplemental budget to fully fund our schools. Maryland’s state legislators worked hard to pass bipartisan budgets that restore 90 percent of Gov. Hogan’s education cuts, without raising taxes or increasing debt. After bipartisan backlash to his proposal to slash education funding, Gov. Hogan said he was open to restoring his cuts as long as taxes weren’t raised and the structural deﬁcit was addressed. The legislature delivered, and now Gov. Hogan must keep his promise. Gov. Hogan’s current unwillingness to agree with the House and

Tax hike proposal should have been on ballot I’m writing to voice my displeasure with Mr. Rushern Baker’s plan to raise our county taxes! I think any such idea should be put before the county’s voters and not decided by politicians. This idea could have been put on the ballot before and it wasn’t. It should have been!

With school systems making decisions right now to raise class sizes and reduce positions, he should stop playing political games with our children’s future. Senate bipartisan budgets is holding up $25 million or $4,500 per classroom for students in Prince George’s schools. Such a hit to our district’s budget will put hundreds of educators’ jobs at risk. As an educator in Prince George’s County, this loss translates into diminishing the improvements that we have made as a system, which includes narrowing the achievement gap, raising graduation rates, and increasing mentoring and support services to new educators. In

Janet Dietrich, Bowie

Dennis Wilston, Corporate Advertising Director Chauka Reid, Advertising Manager Mona Bass, Inside Classiﬁeds Director Cathy Kim, Director of Marketing

a system with more than 126,000 students and more than 12 percent being special education and/or English Language Learners students, the loss in funding will be catastrophic. Our most vulnerable, the children, will be undeniably affected especially those with special needs. Gov. Hogan’s plan will put our district and state in a position to choose between taking the necessary steps to educate our children or to privatize education. I guess this means that the stock market is worth our children’s future, and it’s OK to gamble and take the risk of holding out funding to help the private sector bolster their leverage to receiving public dollars, since the billions that is spent on resources is not nearly enough. It’s important that Gov. Hogan doesn’t make Maryland’s budget about taking from the poor to give to the rich. Let’s urge him to demonstrate that our students are worth more than the risk and to submit a supplemental budget with full funding for Prince George’s County schools.

Rowena Shurn, Greenbelt

Quality quartet The Tia Fuller Quartet performance at the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center in College Park turned out to be an exhilarating experience! Tia was very energetic and kind, and even autographed the photograph and ticket stub that I asked her to autograph after her performance ended.

13501 Konterra Drive, Laurel, MD 20707 | Phone: 240-473-7500 | Fax: 240-473-7501 | Email: princegeorges@gazette.net More letters appear online at www.gazette.net/opinion Ken Sain, Sports Editor Dan Gross, Photo Editor Jessica Loder, Web Editor

yard or I am working in my garden, I am exposed to this disease. There is a leash law in P.G. County. Why does this law apply to dogs and other animals but not cats? Is this discrimination or “pick and choose” laws the county/local government wishes to enforce? The government seems to “turn its head” for cats — why? Because the cats have such a large lobbying group? Cats kill somewhere between 1.3 and 4 billion birds every year in the U.S. I, as a bird watcher, resent this unnecessary killing of birds. Research shows there are numerous studies/comments being made about feral cats and their negative impact on humans and the environment. There is an entire opposing side to the feral cat debate that needs to be addressed. Please take heed. Look closely at both sides.

Hogan, provide full funding for schools

Joseph R. Darner, Adelphi

Gazette-Star

ing property. The feral cats in my neighborhood use my garden and the surrounding areas as their litter box. The smell in the area is overwhelming at times, especially in the warmer weather. I am a gardener and resent the fact that sometimes I cannot go into my yard due to the offensive odor of cat urine and feces. Where have the rights of a homeowner to use their yard as they please gone? It seems the cats have more rights than the taxpayers. I do not want cats in my yard (notched or not) — period! Cats play an important role in the spread of toxoplasmosis. Cats can shed millions of oocysts (parasites from toxoplasmosis) in their feces for as long as three weeks after infection. The feral cat can contaminate the soil or water in the environment as well. There does not have to be physical contact with a cat to contract the disease. So, if children are playing in their

Anna Joyce, Creative Director, Special Pubs/Internet Ellen Pankake, Director of Creative Services Leah Arnold, Information Technology Manager David Varndell, Digital Media Manager

I highly recommend seeing her quartet perform, and I plan to go see them the next time I read The Gazette-Star newspaper and ﬁnd out that they are performing in Maryland again. Good rhythms!

Charles Leath, Mitchellville

POST COMMUNITY MEDIA Karen Acton, Chief Executive Ofﬁcer Michael T. McIntyre, Controller Donna Johnson, Vice President of Human Resources Maxine Minar, President, Comprint Military

Page A-10

157192G

THE GAZETTE

Thursday, April 23, 2015 bo

SPORTS

GAMES GAZETTE.NET IS STAFFING

Bowie boxer gets another chance at Golden Gloves regional title. B-2

Posted online by 8 a.m. the following day. TRACK: Seven county athletes, including Riverdale Baptist’s Rashad Manning (left), plan to compete as individuals in Philadelphia this week at the Penn Relays. There are relay teams from 20 county schools joining them. BOXING: Golden Gloves, 7:30 p.m., Saturday.

BOWIE | LARGO | UPPER MARLBORO | CLINTON

SOFTBALL: Suitland at Parkdale, 4:30 p.m. Friday.

www.gazette.net | Thursday, April 23, 2015 | Page B-1

It’s time for a change

The Gazette’s sports section has been a major part of my life for the past 15 years. From the time I was a freshman at Magruder High School, I would read — from cover to cover — the local coverage about my team. And on occasion, I would be ecstatic when I saw my — or my friends’ — name in a KENT ZAKOUR football or ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR wrestling article. And after I graduated from college in May 2008, I was fortunate enough to come back to work for my hometown paper. Now, sixand-a-half years later, it’s time to try something new. Over the next few weeks, I will be transitioning off the sports desk and into a new role, as The Gazette’s web editor, with a focus on social media. There, I won’t have any more bylines, and I’ll be working behind the scenes to improve our website, Gazette.net, and our visibility and interaction with readers through various social media platforms. During my career, I’ve covered almost every high school sport in Maryland. I’ve talked to former and current professional athletes and college stars, but the vast majority of people were high school kids — with no or little vision of playing at the next level — simply enjoying the game. I’ve found that those student-athletes are the most rewarding to cover since they are genuine, usually unfiltered, and money and fame aren’t ulterior motives. I don’t have a “favorite” interview or story. But my most memorable game was in 2013, covering Sherwood winning the first girls lacrosse state semifinal game in Montgomery County history. The surprise and emotion the girls displayed will never be forgotten. I didn’t start out wanting to work in sports journalism. When I was a student at Penn State and an avid sports fan, I had my sights set on majoring in business or economics. I had never thought about putting two of my passions — writing and sports — together. That’s why I’ll never forget Oct. 10, 2004. As I watched — and probably annoyed my college roommate and good friend, Tyler Magee — the Washington Redskins blow a second-half lead against the Baltimore Ravens on ESPN’s Sunday Night Football., I decided a career in sports journalism would be the way to go. I changed my major to journalism with sports reporting emphasis the next day. I mean, who wouldn’t want to be a star reporter or play-byplay man? Boy, was I delusional. Through class and internships, I quickly learned that was the exception; sports journalism wasn’t all roses. For most, there’s not much money, hours are long and the job security always is in question. Don’t get me wrong; I absolutely love my job, but the reality is much different than the ideal. Finally, there are a few people who deserve recognition for helping me out along the way. Thank you to Michelle Bazlamit, who gave me my first internship at SportsTalk 980; Chris Kerwin, Dan Hellie, Lindsay Czarniak and Brett Feinberg at Channel 4; Pete Kowalski, David Shefter and Beth Murrison at the United States Golf Association; and John Wehmueller, Seth Elkin and Ken Sain at The Gazette. The past six-plus years, I’ve had one of the best jobs in Maryland, as a reporter and later an assistant editor for The Gazette. I have no regrets and haven’t woken up one day and dreaded going to work. I’ve been able to meet a lot of interesting people — players, coaches and fans alike — and develop several relationships that will last a lifetime. kzakour@gazette.net

Working for success n

Five years removed from being a basketball novice, senior relied on work ethic to succeed BY

gest surprises,” the All-Gazette Player of the Year said. “After the game, I was sitting in the bleachers like, ‘What just happened?’ I couldn’t believe it. I realize that all the hard work I put in throughout the summer was going to pay off. But just to see it in action, to see myself put up 54 — I never expected it.” Bundu was selected to represent this region in Friday’s Capital Classic All-Star game. They take on a team of all-stars from around the nation at 8 p.m. Catholic University. Nowadays, there’s little Bundu could do to surprise local high school basketball fans. The Quinnipiac University recruit tore his way through his senior season, ﬁnishing the campaign with averages of 28.4 points per game and 14 rebounds per game. But ﬁve years ago, when the 6-foot-7 forward was a wiry eighth grader just learning the game of

ADAM GUTEKUNST STAFF WRITER

After a 90-71 win over Monsignor Pace (Fla.) on Dec. 29, a pensive Abdulai Bundu sat in the bleachers of Reagan-Doral High School in Florida. The Largo High School senior had made a major impact in the county during the opening month of the season, but nothing like his performance that day. Two hours, 54 points and 25 rebounds removed from the opening tip, Bundu had not only tied his school’s scoring record, but he had also seen the rewards of what had been a long and arduous journey. “That 54-point game was one of my big-

See WORKING, Page B-2

Oxon Hill High School’s Nasir Willis tries to get control of a loose ball against Bowie on Tuesday.

Seton mixes it up n

BY JENNIFER BEEKMAN STAFF WRITER TOM FEDOR/THE GAZETTE

Largo High School senior Abdulai Bundu is set to play in the Capital Classic on Friday.

PHOTOS BY TOM FEDOR/THE GAZETTE

Shift is on Bowie relaunches, grabs talent back from rival Eleanor Roosevelt n

ERIC GOLDWEIN STAFF WRITER

Hilton Harris started playing lacrosse in seventh grade, and it soon became his favorite sport. But when he arrived at Bowie High School, there wasn’t a lacrosse team and he decided to call it quits. Continuing to play club would’ve been too time consuming, he said, and the other alternative, joining the team at rival Eleanor Roosevelt, didn’t appeal to him. So he focused on other sports instead. Football in the fall, rugby, and baseball in the spring, he said. But three years later, lacrosse is back in the Bowie senior’s life. Hilton is a midﬁelder on the school’s relaunched club

See SHIFT, Page B-2

Bowie High School’s Hilton Harris takes a shot in front of Oxon Hill’s David Dorsey during Tuesday’s boys lacrosse game in Oxon Hill.

Long trip to Penn Relays Junior gets to compete after paperwork snafu kept her out last year

ERIC GOLDWEIN STAFF WRITER

BILL RYAN/THE GAZETTE

Riverdale Baptist junior Taylor Woods practices the long jump during Monday’s practice at the school.

Riverdale Baptist High School’s Taylor Woods was set to make her Penn Relays long jump debut last spring until about a week before the competition, when she received a call from her coach, Orlando Williams. The news wasn’t good. Williams forgot to register the star jumper, and the effort she put into qualifying for America’s oldest and largest track and ﬁeld competition was all for naught. “I was kind of upset because I

Roadrunners softball team relies on four different hurlers

worked so hard,” Woods said. Woods, though, would qualify again this spring. This time around, Williams made sure the junior will actually get to participate. Woods, who ran the 400-meter relay last year, is one of three Prince George’s County athletes competing in the high school girls long jump championship Thursday at the historic Franklin Field in Philadelphia. She’ll be joined by Autumn Robinson from Seton (Bladensburg) and Elizabeth Shodiya from Oxon Hill. “I was pretty conﬁdent I’d be back, because I wanted to make sure I could go there and do everything I’ve been doing,” Woods said. Several other Prince George’s

See RELAYS, Page B-2

Even the best softball pitchers can lose their edge as games progress and batters have had a look or two at their repertoire. But with an actual pitching staff the Elizabeth Seton High School team rarely finds itself in that position. Most high school teams are fortunate if they have one truly reliable pitcher and maybe one emergency backup. The Roadrunners (9-7), who are beginning to establish themselves as true postseason contenders, cycle through four — senior Erica Hawkins, junior Lindsay Mercier, sophomore Ciara McDowell and freshman Jessica Thompson — on a regular basis. “Just when [opposing batters] are thinking they’re figuring out a pattern, or a go-to pitch of one of our pitchers, we’ll go to someone else,” Seton coach Rita Rahl said. “It definitely keeps [opposing lineups] off balance.” Rahl has used all four in the same game just once — in a loss to defending Washington Catholic Athletic Conference champion St. Mary’s Ryken — but has gone to three on many occasions. And two is an absolute, she said. It was Thompson who got the start in Tuesday’s 4-2 win over crosstown WCAC rival Bishop McNamara — she and Hawkins are typically the starters, Rahl said. The first-year varsity pitcher struck out three and allowed just one hit in five innings of work. The Roadrunners’ “closer,” Mercier, didn’t give up any hits and struck out one in the final two innings. Hawkins was 2 for 3 at the plate Tuesday — when not pitching all four are still major parts of the lineup — with a double, a run scored and an run batted in. The win over McNamara was Seton’s fourth victory in five games; the Roadrunners fell, 11-3, to Ryken on Friday but came away from the game feeling confident about their chances should the two meet again in the postseason, Hawkins and

See SETON, Page B-2

PENN RELAYS Seven individuals and 20 relay teams from Prince George’s County are scheduled to compete at this weekend’s Penn Relays in Philadelphia. Here are the individuals scheduled to compete: n Edward Anderson, Flowers, 400 hurdles n Rashad Manning, Riverdale Baptist, shot put n Brenton Nelson, DeMatha, long jump n Autumn Robinson, Seton, long jump n Elizabeth Shodiya, Oxon Hill, long jump n David Thompson, DeMatha, 400 hurdles n Taylor Woods, Riverdale Baptist, long jump

THE GAZETTE

Page B-2

Thursday, April 23, 2015 bo

Bowie ﬁghter gets another shot at regional crown Local boxers set to compete for Golden Gloves titles n

GOLDEN GLOVES n When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday n Where: Rosecroft Raceway, Fort Washington

PRINCE J. GRIMES

n Prince George’s County boxers:

STAFF WRITER

For the second year in a row, Bowie resident Demetrius Young will be fighting in the Washington Golden Gloves Regional Championships on Saturday at Rosecroft Raceway. His fight will be one of the eight open division title fights beginning at 7:30 p.m., where the winners of the Washington D.C. and Maryland Golden Gloves championships box against the winners from North Carolina and Virginia. Regional champions advance to the national tournament in Las Vegas, scheduled from May 10-17. Last year, Young lost his 108-pound contest to Jonathan Howard III of Wilmington, North Carolina. This year, Young meets Howard again for a chance at redemption. He said he’s even more prepared this time around. “I could’ve won,” Young said of last year’s fight. “I was winning the first round… I gassed out. It was my first open [division] fight.” At just 18, Young is one of the

Open Division n Demetrius Young (108 pounds, Bowie); Marcus Wright (123 pounds, Temple Hills); Keshawn Williams (132 pounds, Capitol Heights); Gary Antaunne Russell (141 pounds, Capitol Heights); Justin Bell (178 pounds, District Heights).

Novice Division

Bowie’s Demetrius Young practices on Monday. youngest boxers out of the open division field on Saturday. He said he enjoys being the “underdog beating up on the big guys.” Young attends Flowers High School and is one of the few 18-and-older boxers in his 108-pounds weight class. Young, who said he eventually wants to turn pro, went unopposed as the Washington Golden Gloves champion on April 4 so he’ll be ﬁghting with a little more time in between his last ﬁght than most. But Young said he doesn’t think he’ll be at a disadvantage on Saturday, especially since he knows his opponent.

BILL RYAN/THE GAZETTE

“It might put me at a disadvantage if I didn’t have the sparring partners that I have,” Young said. “But we train regularly. We spar regularly. We go ﬁght other people. So, I don’t think I’m at a disadvantage.” Young trains at The Answer gym in Capitol Heights, recently switching from Washington D.C.’s Headbangers gym in order to be closer to his home in Bowie. Several of his former gymmates from Headbangers will also be fighting on Saturday, including 23-year-old Shynggyskhan Tazhibay. Whereas Young said he

n Kevin Penergrass (114 pounds, Suitland); Donnell Poe (132 pounds, Fort Washington); Jonathen Surratt (201 pounds, Fort Washington).

started boxing eight years ago to get tougher, Tazhibay started boxing with the initial intention to go pro. He hails from Karaganda, Kazakhstan, the same place as the World Boxing Association and International Boxing Organization middleweight champion Gennady Golovkin, also known as ‘Triple G.’ Tazhibay, who now lives in Rockville, said he moved to the United States to gain more exposure as a boxer. Attracted by the tradition of a gym that produced boxers such as Lamont and Anthony Peter-

son, Tazhibay has been training at Headbangers for almost two years. When he’s not boxing, he attends Tyson’s Institute in Vienna, Virginia, but most of the time, Tazhibay is training to become the next great boxer to hail from Kazakhstan. “I decided to come here because all famous professional boxers [are] here,” Tazhibay said. “I decided that if I want to turn pro, I have to go straight to United States.” Tazhibay defeated Jonathan Burr II to win the 152-pound Washington Golden Gloves title.

He said each success of competing in Golden Gloves brings him closer to his ultimate goal. “It’s going to be a very big deal for me,” he said about the prospect of winning the regional fight on Saturday. “Because I came here to turn pro. Nobody can make me professional boxer without success. So this one is like the key to turn pro, so that’s why it’s very important for me to win all amateur fights before signing the contract and turning professional boxer.” Unlike Young, Tazhibay and a few other Washington Golden Gloves champions will be fighting regionals for the first time. Burtonsville resident Tavon Body won his regional fight last year and said the most important thing is to be prepared mentally. “Boxing is 90 to 100 percent mental,” Body said. “You could be physically strong and you could be in shape, but mentally if you’re not ready, you’re going to get in there and you’re going to fold.” Body will look to repeat as a regional champion at 165 pounds. pgrimes@gazette.net

Suitland softball team off to an undefeated start; gets test from Parkdale The Suitland High School softball team is one of just three remaining undefeated squads in Prince George’s County, along with Class 4A South Region favorite Eleanor Roosevelt and Prince George’s County South Division foe Crossland. The Rams’ win streak should be tested in Friday’s game against division opponent Parkdale, a team with which Suitland has split games in recent years, coach Kamilah Williams said. The Rams have been strong up the middle with junior pitcher Breonna Davis and twin sisters Corrine and Kaitlyn Williams at shortstop and center ﬁeld, respectively. Suitland also prides itself on making good contact with the ball and smart base running, Williams said. “Once we get on base, we’re going to score,” Williams said. “We’ve been good at being selective with the pitchers we’re given and being smart batters. We’re not swinging at [bad pitches], we’re making good contact. We don’t need to necessarily go for home runs, just good solid hits. Parkdale

WORKING

Continued from Page B-1 basketball, the slew of accolades Bundu’s acquired along the way was not necessarily in the forecast. Yet even when going up against more talented, more experienced competition, Bundu always held one distinct advantage; something that longtime coach Lewis Howard said has defined the senior’s legacy at the Upper Marlboro school. “You don’t have to have talent if you have work ethic,” Howard said. “[Abdulai] outworked quite a few people along the way — those that had more talent than him. He was able to outwork them and do the little things to get the ‘W,’ whether it be for Largo or for any organization he played for. He was the hard worker. He was the Dennis Rodman guy.” Even after a sophomore season that saw Bundu average 17 points per game and 10 rebounds per game, the Largo center’s work was far from over. The next season saw his numbers jump to 25 points per game and 13 rebounds per game, but still Bundu attacked the offseason entering his senior year with a ferocity he had yet displayed. The summer of 2014 saw two-a-day trips to the weight room — a place Bundu knew was vital to his success in his last varsity season. Whereas in the past, teammates of similar height had lessened his load and energy output in the paint, the Lions senior entered the 201415 season aware that he was the only man in the middle. “I said I had to be twice as strong as I was last year and twice as fast and just be able to explode out and finish plays,” Bundu said. “… [I needed] to be able to take hits and finish. That’s all I did.” Hits may be an understatement when talking about the assault Bundu found himself under night in and night out this season. When an opposing team had no answer for the senior’s indomitable motor and next-level body down low, they

PREP NOTEBOOK GAZETTE STAFF is a good team, we just need to have good pitching and make good solid contact.”

— JENNIFER BEEKMAN

DuVal settling into new lineup With the majority of last year’s lineup expected back this spring, the DuVal High School softball team looked to be a step ahead of where it was in a tough 2014 campaign. But injuries and health issues left the Tigers down several starters early in the season. After the spring break hiatus coach Laurie Hunt was still experimenting with lineup combinations but everything seemed to come together in Friday’s 23-9 win over Largo in four innings, The victory was DuVal’s second of the season and ﬁrst since

often resigned to fouling Bundu — forcefully and often. Bundu attempted 313 free throws on the season and lists a fractured ﬁnger, sprained wrist, deeply bruised hip, rolled ankles and a foot injury among the injuries he sustained along the way. “Man, throughout the season, I can’t even explain,” Bundu said. “… It was a beating. Sometimes people weren’t even making a basketball play fouling. It was just intentionally getting tackled in midair, grabbed choked … one guy jumped on my back.” But he can’t say he never had fair warning. Knowing that Bundu would be the focal point of every opposing team’s game plan, Howard warned his senior of the physical play and sometimes frustrating attention that was coming. Bundu responded by scoring at least 20 points in all but four of the County 3A/2A/1A champions’ 25 games. Standing at 6-foot-7 Bundu had all the makings of a dominant post player in high school, which is exactly what he was. The Largo center only attempted one jump shot all season, a halfcourt three-pointer he of course made against Potomac on Feb. 3. But Bundu’s style of play won’t translate to the center spot in the Division I game, not with his size — something Bundu acknowledged himself. Playing in the post was what worked in high school, as he explained. College, he said, will serve as a platform to show off the other sides of his game. Bundu has worked tirelessly on his face up skills since the end of the season, drilling from the perimeter and the elbow — spots he’ll likely ﬁnd himself in at Quinnipiac. So, detractors take notice. Doubting someone with a motor that Abdulai Bundu has isn’t wise. “People say all I got is post moves and it won’t work in college,” Bundu said. “I don’t pay attention to them because I know what I can do.” agutekunst@gazette.net

April 1 but Hunt said confidence gained from the performances could help propel the Tigers (2-5) into the second half of the year and playoffs. “There have been a lot of chances in who is playing what position, it’s been about finding the chemistry and who best fits where,” Hunt said. “[Friday] we found that chemistry we needed and that made the difference.”

— JENNIFER BEEKMAN

DuVal learning on the ﬂy The baseball team at DuVal High School is 5-2 this season, but probably should have entered the week with just one loss. On April 16, the Tigers held a 10-3 lead over a good Northwestern team but blew the lead and lost, 11-10. The game is being disputed due to a rule misinterpretation which prevented DuVal coach Gary Diagostino from being allowed to re-enter his pitcher. Considering the inexperience of DuVal’s

SHIFT

Continued from Page B-1 team, which competes in the Metro Independent Lacrosse League (MILL). The Bulldogs are led by coach T.C. DiBartolo, a former professional player who grew up in Bowie and attended Archbishop Spalding in Severn. “Getting back into it, I realized how much I actually like it,” Harris said. “... It’s worth it, especially when you step up to the ﬁeld” Bowie’s arrival could lead to a power shift in Prince George’s County lacrosse as schools prepare for the sport’s varsity launch, expected to happen within the next two years and as early as next spring. Though there’s a strong youth lacrosse presence in Bowie, it’s been about a decade since the school has had a club squad, DiBartolo said. Without a team at the high school, many of Bowie’s top boys lacrosse players — Harris excluded — have elected to play for the more competitive Roosevelt club team. That’ll change now that Bowie has a squad. About half of Roosevelt’s current players are from Bowie, coach Don Fink said, since the Raiders’ returning upperclassmen from

baseball players — about five starters are football players new to the sport — they will probably be a lot better once players start learning more of the intricacies of the game. Diagostino said they’re doing well, despite a lack of prior baseball experience. “They’re coming along,” Diagostino said. “They’re good athletes, but they don’t know the game. They can hit and they can run, but it’s just been real difficult with the small aspects of the game. “They love it. They truly love the game. They just don’t know it.” First baseman Khamal Coombs has been swinging the bat well for DuVal, and second baseman Marcus Bryan makes a lot of plays in the field.

— PRINCE J. GRIMES

Friendly enjoys the challenge The Friendly High School baseball team has played just about all of the top teams in the county this year and even

Bowie were allowed to stay on the team. But with the Bulldogs relaunch, the transition has already started. Several of Bowie’s underclassmen who might’ve joined Roosevelt in prior years ended up staying with their school. Roosevelt (7-1), despite losing that talent, remains the strongest of the county’s club teams, which include Gwynn Park, Oxon Hill and Wise. At Bowie, where most of the players hadn’t picked up a stick before this year, the team is in the ﬁrst stage of building a program. “I think the kids are really excited about it, because they get to be part of the beginning of Prince George’s County lacrosse,” DiBartolo said. “... The kids understand [they’re laying] the groundwork for something special for years to come.” As for Harris, his ﬁrst season back has been tedious at times, he said, but he too is optimistic about the direction of the team as it prepares for a future as a varsity lacrosse program. “I know they can be good,” Harris said. “I just want them to work hard inside and outside of school and make Bowie the best lacrosse team in Prince George’s County.” egoldwein@gazette.net

SETON

Continued from Page B-1 McDowell said. And a team’s belief in itself is the ﬁrst step, Rahl said. “After that Ryken game, we scored three legit runs off them, they didn’t give us anything,” Rahl said. “We got some base hits, we scored some runs, we hit a triple and double. They could see right after the game, [Ryken] is going to get enough hits on their own. If we made enough plays, and didn’t give them so many chances, it’s a totally different ball game. I think the second half of the season, they’re starting to realize if we don’t beat ourselves, we can beat anyone.” The neat and most useful part of Seton’s pitching equation, Rahl said, is that each of the four hurlers — though all right-handed — boast different strengths. Hawkins (33

though the Patriots have only beaten one team with a better-than-.500 record, coach Dave Reynolds said the team continues to play hard. Friendly is 4-6, most recently losing 11-3 to Roosevelt last week, but Reynolds said he’s proud of the way the team has played overall. “Our kids play hard. We’ve been in some tough battles,” he said. “I’m proud of our kids for showing up and playing hard every day. For not ever getting down on themselves. Some of the bigger schools have more resources though — which is not to say that the expectations or the outcome should be any different — but overall, I’m proud of the way we play.” Friendly is a Class 2A school playing in the North Division with the best 4A teams in the county, but Reynolds doesn’t have an issue with playing a tough schedule, rather he embraces the opportunity to play top competition.

— PRINCE J. GRIMES

RELAYS

Continued from Page B-1 County schools and athletes will be represented at the event. Rashad Manning, Woods’ classmate at the Upper Marlboro school, qualiﬁed for the shot put championship scheduled for Friday. Edward Anderson, a senior from Flowers in Springdale, qualiﬁed for the 400 hurdles. DeMatha has two athletes — David Thompson (400 hurdles), Brenton Nelson (long jump) — competing in individual events. The Hyattsville private school is looking to match the success it had in last year’s relay events. “It’s going to be an experience that they’re going to remember,” coach Tamlin “Buster” Antoine said. The competition will also feature schools and athletes from Montgomery County. That includes three members of the Northwest team in Germantown. Junior Leondra Correia is competing in the girls long jump, making her Penn Relays debut in the event. She said she is trying to break 19-plus feet; according to mocorunning.com, which includes results dating back to 2006, that would break Northwest’s record of 18-7 held by

strikeouts in 2015) has the power — and has become a lot more accurate with that speed. McDowell, who will typically come in to relieve either Hawkins or Thompson, relies on ball movement with her pitches and appears unfazed by anything in the pitcher’s circle. Thompson also relies on ball movement and placement but does better when she starts things off and Mercier, who Rahl said walks that important fine line between confident and cocky, can do a bit of everything. Initially Mercier (four saves and 22 strikeouts on the season) earned the job as closer because she takes the least amount of time to warm up, Rahl said, but her ability to remain poised coming into any situation is also a major plus in that role. “[Mercier] has a presence on the mound, like, ‘I’m going to do a job,’” Rahl said. “She is good at reading batters and picking apart their swing.”

Kendra Meredith, class of 2014. “I’m very excited because I’ve always watched the long jumpers,” said Correia, who recorded a personal best of 183.25 in January during indoor season. “... Finding out I could jump this year, it made me really happy.” Correia is joined by Northwest teammates Shyheim Wright (400 hurdles) and senior Diego Zarate (mile). Evan Woods, a senior from Whitman in Bethesda, is running alongside Zarate in the mile. Clarksburg junior Alexus Pyles, who competed in the 1,600 relay in 2014, qualified for the triple jump scheduled for Thursday. Kiernan Keller, a senior from Walter Johnson in Bethesda, qualified for the girls mile while Lisa Anne Barrow from Holton-Arms in Bethesda qualified for the long jump. Look for the Bullis girls relay teams — which include Jôn Glass, Kyla Lewis, Arianna Richards, Alexis Postell and Lindsay Lewis, Masai Russell — to have strong finishes in the 400 relay and 1,600 relays. Coach Joe Lee said he expects the Potomac private school to make an appearance in the small school final. egoldwein@gazette.net

Rather than worry about competing for time in the pitcher’s circle or statistics, Hawkins and McDowell said having a true pitching staff takes the pressure off each when it’s her time to go. They have a true support system and if one is having a bad day, she knows she has three others — and the team as a whole — to pick her up. As relievers, McDowell and Mercier could inherit runners and a deﬁcit but they don’t get frustrated, Rahl said, they’re more driven to rectify the situation. “[Having a four-pitcher staff] is something that kind of just happened,” Rahl said. “At ﬁrst we thought we’d do two at a time and about who we’d pair up and if one starts, who would close. Then it came to be, if we could get one time through the lineup with someone, what if we got through the lineup [next time] with someone else?” jbeekman@gazette.net

THE GAZETTE

Thursday, April 23, 2015 bo

Page B-3

DuVal softball passes chemistry test vs. Largo SportsBriefs n

Big second inning propels Tigers to win after a slow season start

Rosters ﬁnalized for Capital Classic The 42nd annual Capital Classic Basketball All-Star Game is scheduled to be played Friday at Catholic University and will feature a handful of the county’s top players. Potomac High School’s Randall Broddie, Clinton Christian’s Kevin Dorsey, Largo’s Abdulai Bundu, National Christian’s Sylvester Ogbonda and DuVal’s Edward Polite are on the roster for the Capital All-Stars, who will square off against the U.S. All-Stars. The showcase game, which begins at 8 p.m., features seniors from around the country committed to play at schools like Kentucky, Wisconsin and North Carolina next season. Preceding the 8 p.m. game is a 6 p.m. matchup between the NoVa/MoCo All-Stars and the DC/PG All-Stars, which will feature the following local players: Eleanor Roosevelt’s Oladoyin Fadojutimi, Northwestern’s David Belle, National Christian’s Ishmael Johnson, Clinton Christian’s Ashante Shivers, DuVal’s Kevin Simpson and Riverdale Baptist’s Kenneth Wormley.

BY JENNIFER BEEKMAN STAFF WRITER

After graduating seven of nine starters between the spring of 2013 and last season, the DuVal High School softball team struggled a bit in 2014. But with the majority of last year’s team back with an added year of experience, coach Laurie Hunt was optimistic about the Tigers’ chemistry and this season’s prospects. Then the injuries and health issues set in. Midway through the season DuVal has continued to experiment with its lineup but everything seemed to fall into place in Friday’s 23-9, four-inning win at Prince George’s County North foe Largo — the gamed reached its two-hour limit at the end of the fourth inning. The victory was DuVal’s second of the season and first since April 1 but Hunt said confidence gained from the performance could help propel the Tigers (2-5) into the second half of the year and playoffs. “There have been a lot of changes in who is playing what position, it’s been about finding the chemistry and who best fits where,” Hunt said. “[Friday] we found that chemistry we needed and that made the difference.” After falling behind, 2-1, in the first inning, DuVal took total control of Friday’s game with a 10-run second inning highlighted by an Alasia Parker grand slam; the Tigers led 11-2 through two innings. As Largo’s two sophomore pitchers struggled to find consistency, Hunt commended her

— ADAM GUTEKUNST

DuVal High School’s Will-Anne Auguste is hit by the ball while batting against Largo during Friday’s softball game. players for being patient at the plate. The Tigers drew six walks/hit by pitches in the second inning to help them get runners on base. The game in general featured a bevy of walks and batters hit by pitches — more than 30, combined, between both teams. DuVal increased its lead to 17-2 in the top of the third inning off seven walks/hit by pitches, hits from Parker and Mya Dupree and smart, aggressive base running. But Largo pulled itself back within eight, 17-9, with a seven-run, bottom

1909079

of the third inning. While ﬁve of the Lions base runners reached by getting hit by a pitch, the inning also featured hits from Tanijia Hardy-Leach, Kymesha Cheeks and Kasey Fisher. DuVal increased its cushion with six runs in the fourth inning; the Tigers were helped along by some Largo errors. Lions coach Keith Hutchins said despite the errors, he was pleased with his players’ ﬁghting spirit and production at the plate. Hardy-Leach said it will also be important for Largo to come together more as a team.

BILL RYAN/THE GAZETTE

“I think that we just need to take the time to do things together as a team rather than rush and try to do things individually,” Hardy-Leach said. Largo attempted another comeback in the bottom of the fourth inning but stranded all three runners. “We are getting back into playing teams that we’ve seen before, [Friday] was a good conﬁdence boost for the team,” Hunt said. jbeekman@gazette.net

Bowie High jumper encouraged by competition On April 11, Bowie High School high jump standout Jason Zeigler got the chance to scout his postseason competition a little earlier than planned. The Bulldogs senior squared off against Quince Orchard’s Dylan Bikim at Middletown High School as part of the Don Boyer Invitational. Bikim placed ﬁrst with a jump of 6 feet, 2 inches while Zeigler tied for second with a jump of 6-00. “It was nice because I’ve actually never jumped against him before,” Zeigler said. “... It’s good to be able to see the competition because it kind of helps drive that fuel to get better. I see what he can do and I know he’s putting in work so I keep putting in the same work.”

— ADAM GUTEKUNST

Arts & Entertainment www.gazette.net | Thursday, April 23, 2015 | Page B-4

LEARNING and JUMPING

to the beat My Little World Live provides songs, lessons for youngsters

KIRSTY GROFF STAFF WRITER

Children will be able to learn about healthy habits while keeping active during the course of a fun, family-friendly theater production at the Bowie Center for the Performing Arts on Wednesday. “Your Heart Jumps to the Beat,” is one of the ﬁrst public productions from My Little World Live, part of Natii Arts. Founder Natii Wright began the My Little World program as a learning tool for preschoolers. Wright would perform as a professional jazz entertainer and began Natii Arts as a way to keep all of her creative projects together. When she became the director of a child care center, she decided to add music to the curriculum. “My goal at that time was to engage the children and cut down on negative behaviors and enhance the positive — laughing, singing and learning lessons in a positive matter,” she said. “I inadvertently included physical activity in that process, and what we ended up doing was recognizing that physical activity was necessary for a broader group of children.” Using their separate classes for 2-through-5-year-olds as an example, Wright and her coworkers found that the youngest children when the program began ended up graduating from preschool reading. After these results, they received grants to expand the program’s reach from organizations such as Summit Health Institute for Research and Education, and Washington, D.C.,’s Department of Health. Now Wright and the My Little World

See LEARNING, Page B-5

156643G

The Nile Project is set to perform at The Clarice on Sunday.

PHOTO FROM THE CLARICE

A river runs through them

Music brings members from different countries in Africa together

BY RAECINE WILLIAMS SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

SUBMITTED BY NATII WRIGHT

My Little World Live is an early childhood educational program combining music with physical activity and forming healthy habits, as seen in their theatrical production “Your Heart Jumps to the Beat.”

If life imitates art, then the multiethnic spectrum of talent that makes up the Nile Project will surely inform perspectives and open minds when they perform at The Clarice on Sunday. The Nile Project, founded in 2011, unites artists from countries along the Nile River Basin, and allows them to perform as one, uniting their languages, traditions and musical inﬂuences. “It’s almost like different cultures donating small bits to this one big, multicultural wheel which is rotating over and over, and it’s so diverse,” said Kasiva Mutua, a percussionist and vocalist with the Nile Project.

“When you come to watch us, you should be prepared to go on a journey,” Mutua said. “It’s like going on an actual safari but seated in a theater for two hours, and you get to ﬂy from Burundi to Rwanda to Kenya to Ethiopia to Egypt, and again to Sudan.” The countries mentioned are only but half of the nations around the Nile Basin, which is shared by 11 countries. “Eleven countries that are not normally thought of as one region,” the Nile Project’s cofounder Mina Girgis points out. “Nobody thinks of Egypt as being in any way relevant to Kenya or Uganda.” Girgis, who grew up in Cairo, believes that the cultures uniting through music will transpose into real life. “Collaboration inspires our audience to become more curious about the cultures of all the

See RIVER, Page B-5

THE GAZETTE

Thursday, April 23, 2015 bo

LEARNING

IN THE ARTS For a free listing, please submit complete information to wfranklin@gazette.net at least 10 days in advance of desired publication date. High-resolution color images (500KB minimum) in jpg format should be submitted when available. THEATER & STAGE Bowie Community Theatre, “Flyin’ West,” through April 25, call for prices, times, Bowie Playhouse, 16500 White Marsh Park Dr., Bowie, 301805-0219, bctheatre.com. The Clarice, Bach Cantata Series, April 23; Art, Peacebuilding and Social Change, April 23; UMoves, April 23; UMoves, April 24; Maryland Opera Studio: Crime and Punishment, April 24; 17th Annual Maryland Day, April 25; UMoves (two shows), April 26; Maryland Opera Studio: Crime and Punishment, April 26; The Nile Project, April 26; Female Perspectives on the Nile, April 27; The Role of Musicians in Peace and Environmental Movements, April 27; K-12 School Partner Program: The Nile Project, April 28; The Future of the Field: African American Dance Companies, Theaters and Museums, April 28; Crowdsourcing Solutions for a Sustainable Nile Basin, April 28; New Music at Maryland, April 28; UMD Repertoire Orchestra: Brahm’s Second Symphony, April 29; University of Maryland, College Park, theclarice. umd.edu. Hard Bargain Players, “Down the Road,” June 12-June 27, Theater in the Woods, 2001 Bryan Point Road, Accokeek, 240-766-8830, hbplayers.org. Harmony Hall Regional Center, The Fabulous Chinese Acrobats, May 6; 10701 Livingston Road, Fort Washington, 301-203-6070, arts.pgparks.com. Greenbelt Arts Center, “Choking Out the Kudzu,” through April 26; call for prices, times, Greenbelt Arts Center, 123 Centerway, Greenbelt, 301-441-8770, greenbeltartscenter.org. Joe’s Movement Emporium, Salsa for schools: A Beneﬁt for Mount Rainier Elementary Schools, April 24; Thank Your Body, April 25; 3309 Bunker Hill Road, Mount Rainier, 301-699-1819, joesmovement.org. Laurel Mill Playhouse, “Little Shop of Horrors,” April 24 through May 17, call for ticket prices, times; Laurel Mill Playhouse, 508 Main St., Laurel, 301-452-2557, laurelmillplayhouse.org. Montpelier Arts Center, Ian Walters, April 24; Keesun Kwon, April 25; 9652 Muirkirk Road, Laurel, 301-377-7800, arts.pgparks.com. NASA’S Music And Drama club (MAD), Barney & Bea Recreation Center, 10000 Good Luck Road, Bowie. For ticket sales and additional information, call 240-475-8800 or visit madtheater.org. Prince George’s Little Theatre, “Suite Surrender,” May 1 through May 16, call for tickets and show times, Bowie Playhouse, 16500 White Marsh Park Drive, Bowie, 301-937-7458, pglt.org. Publick Playhouse, Dallas Black Dance Theatre, April 23-April 24; 5445 Landover Road, Cheverly, 301-277-1710, arts.pgparks.com. 2nd Star Productions, “Kiss Me, Kate,” May 29

YOUR HEART JUMPS TO THE BEAT

Continued from Page B-4

through June 27; Bowie Playhouse, 16500 White Marsh Park Dr., Bowie, call for prices, times, 410757-5700, 301-832-4819, 2ndstarproductions.com. Tantallon Community Players, “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” May 22 through June 7; Harmony Hall Regional Center, 10701 Livingston Road, Fort Washington, 301-262-5201, tantallonstage.com. Venus Theatre, “Dry Bones Rising,” May 21 through June 14, 21 C Street, Laurel. venustheatre. org.

NIGHTLIFE New Deal Café, Cold Hard Cash, April 24; IlyAIMY, April 25; LuLu’s Fate, April 26; New Deal Laugh-In, April 28; Steve Haug, April 29; Beggars Tomb, May 1; 113 Centerway Road, 301-474-5642, newdealcafe.com. Old Bowie Town Grill, Wednesday Night Classic Jam, 8 p.m. every Wednesday, sign-ups start at 7:30 p.m., 8604 Chestnut Ave., Bowie, 301-464-8800, oldbowietowngrille.com.

DANCING Ballroom dance and lesson, with instructor Dave Malek at 7 p.m. every Thursday. A beginner’s lesson precedes the dance, which starts at 8 p.m. Cost is $10. The dance is located at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 6111 Columbian Way, Bowie. For more information, email dave@dancin-dave.com or call 410-370-8438.

n When: 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 29

team work with teachers on incorporating the program into the curriculum, providing child care centers with a manual, music recordings and a DVD showcasing the moves and other important aspects for the teacher to keep in mind when implementing the songs. With My Little World Live, Wright can bring the program’s tenets to a wider range of children, outside of the classroom, creating characters children can relate to and that keep them interested, such as Mr. Goodman Learner, Trya Veggeline, Mr. Ray-Monde and Dr. A. Orta Thumpbabump. “With early educators, it’s incumbent on them to sell the program to the children,” Wright said. “Even though teachers went back to the schools engaging the children in the program, we thought, how wonderful to expand it further and create on the level of the child. Much like ‘Sesame Street’ or ‘Barney,’ the child falls in love with the characters, and we’re able to teach the lessons that go along with the songs.”

n Where: Bowie Center for the Performing Arts, 15200 Annapolis Road, Bowie n Tickets: $5 n More information: natiiarts.com; 301-455-4265

Creating an educational program for outside of classroom walls also means that there isn’t a mandated curriculum to work within. The theatrical production can reach a broader range of ages in children and can address important lessons that might not ﬁt neatly within a preschool’s guided instruction, like hand-washing and heart health. Many studies over the years have connected the use of music to increased learning skills; with My Little World, incorporating songs provides a fun distraction for children so their lessons don’t feel like learning tools. “Music is universal, and children innately love music,” Wright said. “They’re exposed to so many styles of music in this technological age.” She hopes this will happen

sooner than later so as to maximize the learning crucial during childhood; healthy habits start young and can decrease the chance of issues down the line like obesity, diabetes and heart problems — the focus of “Your Heart Jumps to the Beat.” By making these lessons fun and easy to remember and repeat later on, Wright can create lasting change in an entertaining format that leaves the classroom and enters children’s everyday lives. “It’s one thing to have the information out there and have early childhood education implement it,” she said, “but it has to continue at home. Parents are there in the summer, evenings, weekends, so you have to ensure this positive info makes it home to them. If the community begins to do that, then you begin to change the health of children.”

OUTDOORS Dinosaur Park, Dinosaur Park programs, noon to 4 p.m. first and third Saturdays, join paleontologists and volunteers in interpreting fossil deposits, 13200 block Mid-Atlantic Blvd., Laurel, 301-627-7755. Mount Rainier Nature Center, Toddler Time: hands-on treasures, crafts, stories and soft play, 11 a.m. to noon Thursdays, age 5 and younger free, 4701 31st Place, Mount Rainier, 301-927-2163. Prince George’s Audubon Society, Bird Walks, 7:30 a.m. first Saturdays, Fran Uhler Natural Area, meets at end of Lemon Bridge Road, north of Bowie State University, option to bird nearby WB&A Trail afterward; 7:30 a.m. third Saturdays, Governor Bridge Natural Area, Governor Bridge Road, Bowie, meet in parking lot; for migrating and resident woodland and field birds, and waterfowl. For beginners and experts. Waterproof footwear and binoculars suggested. Free. 410-765-6482.

ET CETERA College Park Aviation Museum, Peter Pan Club, 10:30-11:30 a.m. second and fourth Thursdays of every month, activities for pre-schoolers, $4, $3 seniors, $2 ages 2-18, 1985 Cpl. Frank Scott Drive, College Park, 301-864-6029, collegeparkaviationmuseum.com. Women’s Chamber Choir Auditions, by appointment for the concert season of women’s chamber choir Voix de Femmes, 7:45-9:30 p.m. Thursdays, 402 Compton Ave., Laurel, 301-520-8921, annickkanter@gmail.com.

RIVER

n Where: The Clarice, 3800 The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, College Park n Tickets: $25 n More information: theclarice.umd.edu, nileproject.org; 301-405-2787

learning somebody else’s music help you understand these people?” Girgis posed. At the same time, Girgis said he was always interested in musical projects that combined musical styles from different geographies. “Both of these incidents kind of came together in the Nile Project as all the musicians that we bring into the collective need to learn about each other’s music in order to play together,” said Girgis. The collective presently has 27 musicians from nine countries,

13 of which are in the U.S. on tour right now. “They can expect to see these musicians playing together, not in what looks like a variety show where every musician is singing a song from their respective culture,” Girgis said. To Mutua, the Nile Project has personal signiﬁcance. “The music of Nile Project has a deeper meaning to me because it’s understanding, it’s togetherness, it’s coming to a consensus — that’s what it means to me, Mutua said. Mutua, who has been playing music since childhood and learned traditional drums from her grandmother, said music is her entire life. “Both the music of the Nile Project and the music that I play is happiness to me,” Mutua said. Because of this happiness that radiates from all the musicians involved, she said people can expect one big thing from the Nile Project. “People can expect joy, ﬁrst of all,” Mutua said.

CA H

FOR CAR !

HERE IS YOUR PRINCE GEORGE’S HELPFUL TEAM OF MARKETING CONSULTANTS: CONSULTANTS:

ADVERTISING MANAGER LAUREL/BELTSVILLE AREAS 240.473.7588 OR CREID@GAZETTE.NET

n When: 7 p.m., Sunday

different musicians represented on stage,” Girgis said. “It helps create a space for the kinds of conversations we need to have in the Nile Basin around water issues and around our connection and what challenges we face.” Girgis began his musical journey ﬁrst as a DJ, then an ethnomusicologist who examined music in its cultural context. He became entranced with the music of the gypsies, eventually writing his graduate school thesis on them. “The gypsies originated in India and migrated into the Middle East and then Europe about a thousand years ago,” Girgis said. “I was looking at the connection between all the different musical groups and how the story was being told in the world music industry.” His intimate studies on the gypsies soon birthed a new question: “How does the process of

AND BE SEEN IN YOUR COMMUNITY!

CHAUKA REID

THE NILE PROJECT

Continued from Page B-4

ADVERTISE ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS

US CALL FOR Y TODA CIAL SPE ES! RAT

Page B-5

ANY CAR ANY CONDITION WE PAY TOP DOLLAR-FAST FREE PICKUP! SELL YOUR CAR TODAY! CALL NOW FOR AN

YOUR IF NOT LAREA IS HERE ISTED ONE O CALL AN WE W F US ANDY ILL YOU! HELP

INSTANT CASH OFFER

(301)288-6009

1930817

DOUG HAYES HAYES

BOWIE AREAS 240.473.7532 OR DHAYES@GAZETTE.NET

YNDA STEW STEWARD ARD LLYNDA

RAIN OR SHINE!

LARGO/LANHAM/UPPER MARLBORO AREAS 240.473.7512 OR LSTEWARD@GAZETTE.NET

DAVE DAVE FELTON FELTON

Since 1989

COLLEGE PARK/HYATTSVILLE/CLINTON AREAS 240.473.7521 OR DFELTON@GAZETTE.NET

www.CapitalAutoAuction.com

WE HAVE VEHICLES FOR EVERY BUDGET AND NEED!

AUCTIONS EVERY SATURDAY

WE W E CAN HELP GROW YOUR BUSINESS WITH WITH PRINT ADS, SPECIAL NICHE PUBLICATIONS, PUBLICATIONS, WEB, WEB, MOBILE AND EMAIL BLASTS.

Temple Hills, MD

5001 Beech Road Live/Drive Auction Time Saturdays 9:00a.m.

Washington, DC

1905 Brentwood Road Live/Drive Auction Time Saturdays 10:00a.m.

Call 301-640-5987

or email dc@capitalautoauction.com

OPEN TO PUBLIC • ALL DEALERS WELCOME 1930818

BUY BELOW KBB VALUE

THE GAZETTE

Page B-6

Thursday, April 23, 2015 bo

From mothers to Mother Earth

Women play a vital role in the use, management, and supply of resources such as water, food, and energy at community and household levels in all the Nile Basin countries. However, they are often overlooked in decision-making and planning processes. What would a Nile Basin look like if its women were fully empowered, and how do their challenges relate to broader regional gender issues? The Female Perspectives on the Nile, presented by the UMD School of Public Policy and Artist Partner Program, will talk about just that at noon on Monday at the Van Munching Hall at the UMD School of Public Policy Atrium. Join several female musicians from Nile Project Collective, along with Prof. Sahar Khamis, Associate Professor in the Department of Communication and an Afﬁliate Faculty in the Department of Women’s Studies and the Consortium on Race, Gender and Ethnicity at the University of Maryland, Prof. Chloe Schwenke, McCourt School of Public Policy at Georgetown University, with moderator Prof. Stacy Kosko, Assistant Director, Minor in International Development and Conﬂict Management at the University of Maryland.. PHOTO BY CONNIE CARTER

all-black town of Nicodemus, Kan., and who overcame difﬁcult odds to work their own land and make a place for themselves in a harsh and forbidding environment. This will be the ﬁnal weekend to see the show by the Bowie Community Theatre at the Bowie Playhouse, since the show ends on Saturday. Tickets for the show are $15-$20. For more information, visit bctheatre.com or call 301-805-0219.

Professional Services

be provided on a ﬁrst-come, ﬁrst-served basis. The event if free, but RSVP is requested.

Laurel Mill Playhouse will temporarily transform into one of the most well-known flower shops for the theater company’s upcoming production of “Little Shop of Horrors,” which opens Saturday. Between the original film, its Broadway runs, the subsequent film based on the stage musical and all adaptations between and since, quirky show “Little Shop” has persisted in the mainstream for decades. While not everyone has seen it, many have at least heard of it. It took Laurel Mill awhile to work out some of the challenges — like securing the large man-eating prop at the heart of the show. Audrey II, the plant that main character Seymour takes care of as part of the duties at Mushnik’s Skid Row Florists, grows over the course of the musical’s events to epic proportions. As Audrey II grows, so does the shops popularity, and Seymour has to learn how to balance his newfound fame with his re-

PHOTO BY JOHN CHOLOD

Attey Harper, Donnell Morina and Melissa Volkery appear as Chiffon, Ronnie and Crystal respectively in Laurel Mill Playhouse’s production of “Little Shop of Horrors.” sponsibilities and friendships. Tickets for the show are $17-$22. For

Attorneys

Clutter into Cash!

BANKRUPTCY THE LAW OFFICES OF

RICHARD B. ROSENBLATT, PC CHAIRMAN OF THE MD BANKRUPTCY BAR ASSOCIATION 1998-1999 LOAN MODIFICATION

301-838-0098

GD28011

Heating & Air Conditioning

EDDY’S

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

49.99 System Check & Clean

301-598-8643 . 202-361-0245

CALL TODAY 301-670-7100 *Merchandise for sell only, excludes real estate, rentals and autos

1931025

Rooﬁng

ROOFING

GD28024

20% OFF

2 weeks, $20*

Rooﬁng

• Heating • Cooling • Roto Brush Air Duct Cleaning • Plumbing & Gas Fitter • Sheet Metal & Part Replacement Open 24/7

Place your advertisement today

POLYTECH

Licensed/Insured/ Bonded

301-315-6065 GD28040

Heating & Air Conditioning

FREE CONSULTATION PAYMENT PLANS SE HABLA ESPAÑOL www.rosenblattlaw.com

GD28071

• Chapter 7, 11 & 13 • General Litigation • Tax Debt • Divorce • Traffic/DUI-MVA • Criminal

more information, visit laurelmillplayhouse.org or call 301-452-2557.

Spring Cleaning, Downsizing, Simplifying? Let us help you sell your items and turn your

Call 301-670-7106 Attorneys

For more information, visit theclarice.umd.edu or call 301405-2787.

WINDOWS SIDING MHIC # 66217

1931443

Following the Civil War, many former slaves decided to take up the government on The Homestead Act, which was enacted to give people the opportunity to claim land if they settled it out West. Whites and blacks alike went West searching for prosperity and a new life. “Flyin’ West,” a play written by Pearl Cleage, tells the story of the black women who became pioneers in the Old West, settling together in the

This event is part of The Clarice’s presentation of The Nile Project. A free lunch will

Try not to become plant food

Miss Leah, played by Sandra Cox True, braids the hair of Minnie Dove Charles, played by Brawnlyn Blueitt, in Bowie Community Theatre’s production of “Flyin’ West.”

Headin’ out West one more time

NILE PROJECT

The Nile Project was founded in August 2011 by Egyptian ethnomusicologist Mina Girgis and Ethiopian-American singer Meklit Hadero to address the Nile basinís cultural and environmental challenges using an innovative approach that combines music, education and an enterprise platform.

Thursday, April 23, 2015 bo

Page B-7

C CLASSIFIEDS LASSIFIEDS BUY IT, SELL IT, FIND IT

SELL YOUR VEHICLE

As Low $ As

• Furniture • Pets • Auctions Unfurnished Apartments Montgomery County

GAITHERSBURG:

Unique Studio in the Lakelands, hardwood floors, separate entrance, full bath, kitchenette and independent AC. Free access to Club House includes utilities, TV, internet.

Unfurnished Apartments Prince George’s County

LANGLEY PARK :

Houses for Rent Montgomery County

DAMASCUS: 3BR OCEAN CITY, $1400/ 2BR $1200 MARYLAND. Best +util NS/NP, W/D New selection of affordable Carpet, Paint, Deck & rentals. Patio 301-250-8385 Full/ partial weeks. Call for FREE broMONT. VILLAGE: chure. Open daily. TH 4Br 2.5Ba, nr Holiday Resort Servshops/bus, HOC OK, ices. 1-800-638-2102. $1,775 + utils, Avail Online reservations: Now. 301-523-9010 www.holidayoc.com Houses for Rent Prince George’s County

GREENBELT: 3BD 3.5BA EU TH. Finished bsmt w/fp. New paint, carpet & floors. Pool & tennis. $1750. NS/NP. 301-552-2306

Bsmt, priv entr, W/D, good for one person, $875 utils inc + SD LANDOVER- SFH 4 301-434-6797 or 301- BR 3 BA, 2 car garage finish bsmt, fenced 455-7662 bckyrd W/D, nr Metro $1850, 301-464-0443

Houses for Sale Houses for Sale Prince George’s County Prince George’s County

CLASSIFIED DEADLINE Monday 4pm

3999

• Domestic Cars • Motorcycles • Trucks for Sale Vacation Property for Sale

Vacation Property for Rent

Call 301-670-7100 or email class@gazette.net

Legal Notices

• Homes for Sale • Condos for Rent • Shared Housing

Legal Notices

• Career Training • Full Time Employment • Part Time Employment

Legal Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

SILVER SPRING COMMUNITY YARD SALE: Sat.,

WSSC Adopts Development Services Code The Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) has adopted the Development Services Code. The Development Services Code contains the requirements affecting all Government Referred Plan Reviews, Hydraulic Planning Analysis (HPA’s), System Extension process (SEP’s), Site Utility Systems (SU’s), Easements, Looping, Low Pressure Sewer Systems, Service Connections, System Development Charge, Wastewater Pump Stations, and the Developer Relocation Process. Subsequent to an extensive stakeholder process and an open public comment period, the WSSC Chief Engineer approved the new regulations on March 4, 2015. THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF THESE NEW REGULATIONS IS JULY 1, 2015

MYRTLE

BEACH:

Condo 3br 2ba, The complete Development Services Code may be downloaded (at no cost) from the WSSC website at: Sleeps 8. Free Golf, https://www.wsscwater.com/files/live/sites/wssc/files/Development%20Services/2015%20FINAL%20CODE%2 Wifi, HDTV, Tennis & 0with%20COVER%20and%20SIGNATURE.pdf Amenities. $895/per week. 301-977-4227

The new regulations will also be available in print for $30 at the Permit’s counter of the WSSC Headquarters OC: 107th St, Quay Building on July 1, 2015.

Condo on ocean 2bd/2ba W/D, kitch, 2 For more information, please contact: pools, sleeps 8 weeks only! 301-252-0200

Kathy Maholtz, Management Support Specialist II: Kathy.maholtz@wsscwater.com

Waterfront Property

WSSC ADOPTS REGULATION ON NOTIFICATION AND POSTING REQUIREMENTS REGARDING SEWER LEAKS

Miscellaneous

(4-22, 4-23-15) Yard/Garage Sale

Prince George’s County Services SPECTACULAR 3 TO 22 ACRE LOTS On April 15, 2015, the Washington Suburban Sanitary CommisCOLLINGTON WITH DEEPWALEAP INTO STATION TER ACCESS- Lo- sion ("Commission" or "WSSC") adopted Regulation No. REG- SPRING with the use WWM-CC-2015-002 entitled "Notification and Posting Require- of our full-service fur10th Annual cated in an exclusive Community Yard Sale ments Regarding Sewage Leaks to Counties, Municipal Corpora- niture upholstery development on VirSat, May 2, 8AM-Noon ginia’s Eastern Shore , tions, and to the General Public" (the "Regulation"). The Regula- cleaning team! Call Collington Station south of Ocean City. tion, which was adopted in accordance with Sections 24-202 and Upholstery Care USA Clubhouse, Amenities include 24-203 of the Public Utilities Article, Md. Code Ann., may be ob- today-410-622-8759375 Johnsberg Lane, community pier, boat Baltimore or 202-534tained from the Commission’s Corporate Secretary (301-206Bowie, MD 20721 ramp, paved roads 7768- DC & MD. As in8200) and may be viewed on the WSSC web site, dustry leaders, we can and private sandy Sat. April LAUREL: beach. Great climate, www.wsscwater.com [Home Page> About WSSC> Events> April make your spring 25th & Sun April 26; 9boating, fishing, clam- 15, 2015 "Commission Meeting">Agenda>Item 5.b.1.]. cleaning a breeze. 5pm. 10001 Snowden

G535108

Lots/ Acreage

Shared Housing

ming and National Seashore beaches nearby. Absolute buy of a lifetime, recent FDIC bank failure makes these 25 lots available at a fraction of their original price. Priced at only $55,000 to $124,000. For info call (757) 442-2171, email: oceanlandtrust@yaho o.com, pictures on website: http://Wibiti.com/5KQN

MOUNTAIN CABIN F.WASHINGTON - 2 BA R GIN 2 STATE BR 1.5 ba bsmt Priv AMAZING WATERVIEWS $69,900 entrc, full Kitch $1200 FRONT GETAWAY CLOSE TO TOWN Park like hardwoods is the perfect spot This log sided shell. Easy access to 23,000 acres of public land all Utilities on large acreage parcel. Financing CALL OWNER 800888-1262

Real Estate Opportunities

MBR $750 incls utils, 240-606-7990

GAITHERSBURG:

1 Br nr Metro/Shops No Pets, No Smoking $385 Avail Now. Call: 301-219-1066

GLENNDALE:

Furnished room, shared BA & kitchen. $450 includes utils. 301-464-0154

HYATTSVILLE:

Newly Renovated 2Br, 1Ba, Condo balcony, Ns/Np, Nr Univ MD Shops. 301-706-5770

DELAWARE’S RESORT LIVING WITHOUT RESORT PRICING! Low tax- LANHAMes! Gated Community, Close to Beaches, Amazing Amenities, Olympic Pool. New Homes from $80’s. Brochures Available 1-866-629-0770 or www.coolbranch.com

Shared Housing

BOWIE: Lrg furn Br,

priv Ba, shrd kit, W/D, parking, nr PG College No smoking/No pet $750 inc utils, avl Apr 20th 301-390-7747

4.6 acres, 275 ft of shoreline, sweeping water views. Access Choptank River and Bay! Dock installed and ready. ONLY $69,900 Call 443-2254679

RM in bsmt, priv entrance, Shared ba & Kitch, N/S N/P $550 utils incl Call (301)979-1942

LAUREL: 2BD 1BA,

basement apt w/priv entr. W/D, kit. NS/NP. $750 + utils. & sec dep. 301-953-2470

LAUREL: Lrg furn or

unfurn room w/priv Ba, nr Marc train, NP/NS, int & TV, nr Rt 1 & beltway 301-792-8830

SILVER SPRING : 2 Rooms Nr Metro, Bus, Shops, Incl utils, laundry, phone, cable. Call 703-994-3501

Adoption

ADOPTION:

Art, Music, Dance, Theatre, Travel, Great Educaton, A Loving Mom and Dad awaits 1st baby. Expenses Paid 1-800-966-3065

Announcements

HOOPS & HOMEWORK - AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM GE R MA N T OW N / CLARKSBURG: Register Online at www.hoopsandhw.co m

Antique/Collectibles/ Flea Markets

TASTE OF FLOWE R : SAT, APRIL 25TH, 9AM - 4 PM

Domestic Help Wanted

(4-22, 4-23-15)

Raymond Maule &

On April 15, 2015, the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commis- Son offers STRAIGHT sion ("Commission" or "WSSC") approved Resolution No. 2015- or Curved ACORN 2079, which amended or relocated subsections of its existing Stairlifts; Call Angel & 2013 WSSC Plumbing and Fuel Gas Code and added new sub- Kathy TODAY 888sections to it. With these revisions, the Code has been renamed 353-8878; Also availathe "2015 WSSC Plumbing and Fuel Gas Code." Prior to approv- ble Exterior Porchlifts; Avoid Unsightly Long ing Resolution No. 2015-2079, the Commission afforded the pub- Ramps; Save lic and various government and industry stakeholders an opportu- $200.00. nity to comment on all proposed changes. Resolution No. 20152079 and a list of the revisions to the 2013 WSSC Plumbing and A-1 DONATE YOUR Fuel Gas Code may be obtained from the Commission’s Corpo- CAR FOR rate Secretary (301-206-8200) and may be viewed on the WSSC BREAST CANweb site, www.wsscwater.com [Home Page> About CER! Help United Breast Foundation edWSSC>Events>April 15, 2015 "Commission Meeting"> ucation, prevention, & Agenda>Item 5.A.2.]. support programs. (4-22, 4-23-15) FAST FREE PICKUP Special Events

Thurs, 04/30, Frid. 05/01 9am - 8pm & Sat. 05/02 9am-2pm May 2nd, 9-2 Brown Bag Day Fill a Grocery Bag for $10

American Assn. of University Women

(AAUW) Gaithersburg

at Rosborough Center of

Asbury Methodist Village

Enter at Lost Knife at Odendhal Rd’s For more information 301-840-1258 Proceeds support Scholarships and Educational Programs for Women. Business Opportunities

Merchandise For Sale

UPP.MALBORO-

Schwinn 213 recumbent exer. bike $250 Nordictrack C2000 treadmill $400 OBO Call 301-574-0076

PERIENCE NEEDED! Online training at CTI gets you job ready! HS Diploma/GED & Computer/Internet needed. 1-877-649-2671 www.AskCTI.com

Delta and others- start here with hands on training for FAA certification. Financial aid if qualified. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-823-6729

Full Time Help Wanted

Nannies

30,000 TO CHOOSE FROM

Business Opportunities

Road. German books, clothing, hh items, some hunting clothing and more!

24 HR RESPONSE TAX DEDUCTION 888-444-7514

Special Events

USED BOOK SALE

MEDICAL BILLING TRAINEES NEEDAVIATION GRADS HOUSEKEEP/CARE ED! Train at Home to WORK WITH GIVER NEEDED: become a Medical Of- JETBLUE , Boeing, fice Assistant! NO EXPT, Drivers Lic, car, refs & prof exp req: Call: 240-510-5220

Visit us at www.upholsterycareus a.com

WSSC APPROVES RESOLUTION NO. 2015-2079 AMENDING EXISTING PLUMBING AND FUEL GAS CODE AND RENAMING NEED INTERIOR/EXTERI IT THE "2015 WSSC PLUMBING AND FUEL GAS CODE" OR STAIRLIFTS!

Special Events

Moving/ Estate Sales

ESTATE

SALE:

ANTIQUES HOUSEHOLD EVERYTHING , THIS IS AN ENTIRE HOUSE OF STUFF ANTIQUES HOUSEHOLD ITEMS TOYS TOOLS GLASSWARE PAINTINGS EVERYTHING MUST GO MORE INFO CALL JOHN 443 519 3524

to advertise call 301.670.7100 or email class@gazette.net

LIVE-IN NANNY WANTED: FT

Housekeeping duties. Driver lic a+. Bowie. 240-247-7864

Yard/Garage Sale Frederick County

BRUNKSWICK-

GC3509

Annual Neighborhood Yard Sale! Saturday April, 25th 8am-1pm Galyn Manor Off Point of Rocks Road, near Brunswick High School!

Yard/Garage Sale Montgomery County

COMMUNITY YARD SALE: 50+

families. Parking lot of KP Elementary, 4710 Saul Rd., Kensington. 4/25 9a-12p.

GAITHERSBURG MOVING SALE:

4/25-26 9-4 strollers, furniture, clothes, toys, etc. 10 Dearden Pl, G’burg

MOVING

Yard/Garage Sale Montgomery County

SALE:

King Farm Rockville, 506 Barnside Pl, Sun.4/26 from 9-12. Antique radios, electronics, garden tools, furn, glassware, clothes, jewelry, plants. No early birds. Go to rear of house.

GC3508

April 25th from 811am - maps will be available throughout the community that morning. Items will include toys, baby items, video games, housewares, costume jewelry, outdoor items, clothes, plants and more. South Four corners Community is bordered by Forest Glen Rd., Sligo Creek Pkwy., Dennis Ave., University Blvd. and Colesville Rd.

Full Time Help Wanted

Dental/ Medical Assistant Trainees Needed Now Dental/Medical Offices now hiring. No experience? Job Training & Placement Assistance Available 1-888-818-7802 CTO SCHEV

Full Time Help Wanted

Grounds Maintenance Laborers Indian Head, Maryland $13.07 per hour plus benefits Experience Needed Email Resume to ckreamer@pdellc.com

Page B-8 Full Time Help Wanted

Thursday, April 23, 2015 bo Full Time Help Wanted

Full Time Help Wanted

DENTAL OFFICE RECEPTIONIST

Energetic and quick to learn person wanted to join our team. Must have excellent people skills, diction, knowledge of dental terms. Mature and enjoy helping people. Must have min. 5yr exp. Fax

resume to 301-474-2507 or email dc@bestdentalcare.us

AUTO VEHICLE PREP

FT for Academy Ford in Laurel. Must be dependable w/good work history, clean driving record and acceptable background check. You will "clean & sparkle" our inventory & perform a variety of other duties. Competitive pay & a great benefits; paid vacations/holidays. Health/dental coverage after 60 days of employment. 401K w/a company match! We are a drug free work place. Contact Malcolm or Scott Richmond: Young: myoung@academyfordsales.com srichmond@academyfordsales.com

Full Time Help Wanted

Media Sales

We are seeking a highly motivated and result-oriented individual to assist small businesses in marketing their products and services. This is an outside sales (print, online & mobile advertising) position based in our Laurel office with a Prince Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s County territory assignment. The ability to secure and grow new business is a must! We offer competitive compensation, a comprehensive benefits package, including pension and 401k. Hard working, enthusiastic applicants with previous sales experience please email your resume to Chauka Reid, creid@gazette.net EOE

Southern Maryland Full Time Help Wanted

Miller & Long Concrete Construction

Recruiting is now Simple! Get Connected! Local Companies Local Candidates

Full Time Help Wanted

Business Development Specialist

Concrete Form Carpenters & Carpenter Helpers GC3536

Full Time Help Wanted

HVAC SR.TECHS & INSTALLERS

Experienced Concrete Form Carpenters. Good Pay and Benefits. Apply in person Monday thru Friday from 9:00am - 12 noon @ 4842 Rugby Avenue, Bethesda MD 20814. EOE/AA/M/F/VET/DISABILITY. We are a drug-free Company.

Needed for the Bowie and Crofton area. Top Pay & Benefits! Call Don 301-218-2363 or email resume to: info@belaireng.com

Part Time Help Wanted

Local companies, Local candidates Get Connected

Gazette.Net

Part Time Help Wanted

PT Front Desk

Part-time weekend position available for front desk clerk with customer service and computer experience. Shift hours are 3:00pm11:00pm, Saturdays & Sundays, $9.00 per hour starting salary. Must have a professional appearance and attitude, communicate effectively and able to manage multiple tasks. Please apply in person at Best Western Plus, 8419 Baltimore Avenue, College Park, Maryland, 20740.

Thursday, April 23, 2015 bo

Page B-9

Cars Wanted

DONATE AUTOS, TRUCKS, RV’S. LUTHERAN MISSION SOCIETY. Your donation helps local families with food, clothing, shelter, counseling. Tax deductible. MVA License #W1044. 410-636-0123 or www.LutheranMissionSociety.org

RAIN OR SHINE! Since 1989

www.CapitalAutoAuction.com WE HAVE VEHICLES FOR EVERY BUDGET AND NEED!

AUCTIONS EVERY SATURDAY

Import Cars

Temple Hills, MD

5001 Beech Road Live/Drive Auction Time Saturdays 9:00a.m.

05 MAZDA 6: 4 cylinder, runs well, 147k, alloy rims, 4 door, sun roof, AC, $3700 Call: 301-996-6494

Washington, DC

1905 Brentwood Road Live/Drive Auction Time Saturdays 10:00a.m.

Call 301-640-5987

or email dc@capitalautoauction.com

OPEN TO PUBLIC • ALL DEALERS WELCOME

BUY BELOW KBB VALUE

G560912

CA H

Looking to buy that next vehicle? Search Gazette. Net/Autos for economical choices.

FOR CAR ! ANY CAR ANY CONDITION

WE PAY TOP DOLLAR-FAST FREE PICKUP! SELL YOUR CAR TODAY! CALL NOW FOR AN

INSTANT CASH OFFER

G560911

(301)288-6009

DARCARS VOLVO OF ROCKVILLE 2006 BMW 325i

2014 Mitsubishi Mirage ES

DARCARS NISSAN

2002 Subaru Impreza WRX Wagon

2001 Nissan Quest GXE

6,977

#442076A, Automatic, Gently Driven $ and Priced to Move!

$10,995

#526611, Leather, Heated Seats, Sunroof, Alloys,

#P9203A, Almost New!!! Only 6K Miles, Automatic, Factory Warranty, Alloys

2008 Mercedes Benz C Class AWD

10,995

2010 Camry Hybrid

12,995

2010 Volvo XC60 3.0 Turbo AWD

2009 Chevrolet Malibu 1LT

14,995

#G0063,ONLY 54K mi, 2.4L 4cyl,Auto

15,995

2012 Volvo S60 Turbo

2012 Volov C30 Turbo

#G0061, Only 62K mi!!,Leather, Panoramic moonroof, Alloys

9,977

20,980

21,980

#P9324, ONLY 24K mi!!, Moonroof, Auto, Nav, Leather $

2012 BMW X3 28i AWD

2012 Volvo S60 T6 R Design

2011 Acura RDX Tech AWD

14,977

25,980

#P9259, 1-Owner Only 25K mi!!! Nav,PWR Tailgate, GORGEOUS!!

28,950

2013 Lexus RX 350 AWD

2012 Nissan Leaf SL NAV Hatchback

#P9327, ONLY 12K MILES!! Certified, Auto, Looks New!

15,977

33,950

# 526603A, Super Clean, Sunroof, Power Tailgate

2010 Mercury Mariner Hybrid

2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee.................................... $12,995 2011 Chrysler Town & Country Touring L.........$20.950 #P9310A, 1-Owner, Super Low Miles 61K, V8, SNRF, Alloys, Gray

14,977

#N0703, Like New, 1-Owner, Previously $ Certified, Leather, Moonroof, PWR Tailgate, Rear Camera

2011 Volvo C30 Turbo Coupe.............................. $12,995 2011 Volvo XC70 AWD................................................... $19,950 #526588B, Black, Fun to drive, Well maintained inside & out!

14,977

25,950 2012 Nissan Sentra 2.0 S

2012 Hyundai Veloster #E0647A,Nav, Panoramic Roof, Leather, Loaded, Fun to drive

#526586A, 1-Owner Only 22K mi!!!, Rear view camera, $ Leather

#540002A, CERTIFIED!! 29K Miles, SR Pk, Alloys

#P9308, CERTIFIED, Turbo, AWD, Leather, Sunroof

13,977

20,950 2014 VW Jetta SE

2011 Kia Soul Sport Wagon

#440190A, LOW MILES! 1-Owner, Well Maintained, Leather, Sunroof, Navigation

#E0686, Auto, Leather, CLEAN!!!

#G0060, CERTIFIED, Only 30K Miles!! Gorgeous!!

8,977

#P9306A, ONLY 58K MILES!! $ TURBO!! Super Clean!!

#549513A, ECOTECH V6, Auto, MP3, Alloys

#527010A, 3.0 L V6, Leather,Sunroof, MUST SEE!

2005 Nissan Altima 2.5

# 546209A, Automatic, Clean

#541161A, Hard-to-Find, 1-Owner, Loaded, Leather, Sunroof

#P9266, 1-Owner, Only 21K Miles, V6, Nav, DVD, Leather Rear View Camera, Pwr Doors & Tailgate

2011 Mini Cooper S........................................................... $14,995 2010 Volvo XC60 3.2L...........................$21,980 #P9243B, 1-Owner, Turbo, Auto, Leather, Well Maintained

16,977

2010 Chevy Equinox LTZ #532188C, Nav, Leather, Sunroof, Loaded

16,977

#P9277 1-Owner, Leather, Moonroof, Bluetooth.

2010 Volvo XC60 3.2L..................................................... $19,950 2012 BMW 328i AWD....................................................... $25,950 #P9263, 1-Owner, Only 52K Miles! Panormic Moonroof, Well prices and clean!

DARCARS

#P9279, 1-Owner only 30K mi!!! Leather, SNRF,PRM PKG, Immaculate!

VOLVO

G560885

2011 Hyundai Sonata Limited #548040A, 1-Owner, Loaded, Sunroof, Leather, Clean!!

15401 Frederick Rd, Rockville, MD

YOUR GOOD CREDIT RESTORED HERE

G560882

1.888.824.9165 See what it’s like to love car buying.

2014 Nissan Maxima 3.5 S Sedan

#E0605, Next To New at a Pre-Owned Price, Still Under Warranty

19,977

www.DARCARSnissan.com

www.darcarsvolvo.com

DARCARS

16,977

DARCARS NISSAN of ROCKVILLE 15911 Indianola Drive • Rockville, MD (at Rt. 355 across from King Farm)

888.805.8235 • www.DARCARSNISSAN.com

BAD CREDIT - NO CREDIT - CALL TODAY!

Page B-10

Thursday, April 23, 2015 bo

DARCARS NISSAN TWO LOCATIONS

Rockville

College Park

15911 Indianola Drive Rockville, MD 20855 888-797-1831 2015 NISSAN

2015 NISSAN

Versa S Sedan

AT THIS PRICE

manual transmission MODEL #11155

10,995

169/MO

AT THIS PRICE

39 MO LEASE 12K MILES/YR

0 DOWN

w/automatic transmission MODEL #11615

2015 NISSAN

LEAF S

$ 4

with charger package MODEL #17015

AT THIS PRICE

219/MO

36 MO LEASE DOWN 12K MILES/YR

AT THIS PRICE

36 MO LEASE DOWN 12K MILES/YR

2015 NISSAN

AT THIS PRICE

MODEL #25015

0 DOWN

169

/MO 36 MO LEASE DOWN 12K MILES/YR

2015 NISSAN

MURANO S AWD MSRP: $33,045 Sale Price: $28,995

25,995

MODEL #13115 4 at this price

/MO 36 MO LEASE DOWN 12K MILES/YR

17,995

MSRP: $32,295 Sale Price: $27,495 Nissan Rebate: $1,000 NMAC Bonus Cash: $500

PATHFINDER 4X4 S

MODEL #12115

AT THIS PRICE

159

MSRP: $23,935 Sale Price: $19,495 Nissan Customer Cash: -$1,000 NMAC Bonus Cash: -$500

289/MO

14,995

ALTIMA 2.5 S

24,495 OR

139/MO

17,995 OR

MSRP: $32,000 Sale Price: $27, 995 NMAC Bonus Cash: $3,500

36 MO LEASE DOWN 12K MILES/YR

MSRP: $22,045 Sale Price: $18,745 Nissan Customer Cash: $750

MODEL #67115

SENTRA SV

2015 NISSAN

NV200

AT THIS PRICE

MSRP: $19,125 Sale Price: $15,745 Nissan Rebate $1,000 NMAC Bonus Cash: $250

13,995

2015 NISSAN

MSRP: $17,600 Sale Price: $14,995 Nissan Customer Cash: $500 NMAC Bonus Cash: $500

VERSA NOTE SV

MSRP: $12,995 Sale Price: $10,995

9330 Baltimore Ave College Park, MD 20740 888-693-8037

269/MO

36 MO LEASE 12K MILES/YR

AT THIS PRICE

28,995

MODEL #23015

349

/MO 36 MO LEASE DOWN 12K MILES/YR

SEE WHAT IT’S LIKE TO LOVE CAR BUYING

DARCARS NISSAN OF ROCKVILLE

DARCARS NISSAN OF COLLEGE PARK

www.DARCARSnissan.com

www.DARCARSnissanofcollegepark.com

Prices include all rebates and incentives. DARCARS Nissan DOES NOT Include college grad or military rebates in price! NMAC Bonus Cash require financing through NMAC with approved credit. Prices exclude tax, tags, freight (Cars $810, SUVs and Trucks $860-$1000) and $300 processing charge, Lease payments are calculated with tax, tags, freight, $300 processing charge and first payment due at signing, and are valid with tier one approval through NMAC. Prices and payments valid only at listed VINS. See dealer for details. Offer expires 04/30/2015. G560923

NEW 2015 HIGHLANDER LE 1 AVAILABLE: #563254, 563261

27,990

355 TOYOTA ASK A FRIEND

4 CYL., AUTO, 4 DR

NEW22015 RAV4 4X2 LE AVAILABLE: #564276, 564332

20,890

4 CYL., AUTOMATIC

2015 PRIUS C II 2 AVAILABLE: #577477, 577476

149/MO**

See what it’s like to love car buying

NEW 2015 CAMRY LE 2 AVAILABLE: #572159, 572152

179/

2 AVAILABLE: #567141, 567123

$0 DOWN

AUTO, 4 CYL., 4 DR

MO**

18,290

4 DR., AUTO, 6 CYL.

AFTER TOYOTA $1,000 REBATE

NEW 2015 COROLLA L 2 AVAILABLE: #570694, 570702

14,690

4 DR., AUTO, 4 CYL., INCL.

AFTER $750 REBATE

MONTHS+ % 0 FOR 60 On 10 Toyota Models

1-888-831-9671

$0 DOWN

149/MO**

2015 COROLLA LE

15625 Frederick Rd (Rte 355) • Rockville, MD OPEN SUNDAY VISIT US ON THE WEB AT www.355Toyota.com PRICES AND PAYMENTS INCLUDE ANY APPLICABLE MANUFACTURE’S REBATES AND EXCLUDE MILITARY ($500) AND COLLEGE GRAD ($500) REBATES, TAX, TAGS, DEALER PROCESSING CHARGE ($300) AND FREIGHT: CARS $795 OR $810, TRUCKS, SPORT UTILITY AND SIENNAS $810, $845 AND $995. *0.0% APR & 0% APR FINANCING UP TO 60 MONTHS TO QUALIFIED BUYERS THRU TOYOTA FINANCIAL SERVICES. TOTAL FINANCED CANNOT EXCEED MSRP PLUS OPTIONS, TAX, AND LICENSE FEES. 0% APR MONTHLY PAYMENTS OF $16.67 FOR EACH $1000 BORROWED. 0.9% APR 60 MONTHLY PAYMENTS OF $17.05 FOR EACH $1000 BORROWED. APR OFFERS ARE NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER CASH BACK LEASE OFFER. NOT ALL BUYERS WILL QUALIFY.**LEASE PAYMENTS BASED ON 36 MONTHS, 12,000 MILES PER YEAR WITH $995 DOWN PLUS $650 ACQUISITION FEE, NO SECURITY DEPOSIT REQUIRED. LEASES FOR COROLLA AND CAMRY ARE 24 MONTHS WITH $0 DOWN PLUS TAX, TAGS, FREIGHT, PROCESSING AND $650 ACQUISITION FEE. SEE DEALER FOR COMPLETE DETAILS. EXPIRES 4/28/2015.

4 CYL., 4 DR., AUTO

2 AVAILABLE: #570314, 570343

$0 DOWN G560921

24,690

AUTO, 4 CYL

2014 SCION XB 2 AVAILABLE: #455005, 455044

NEW 2015 SIENNA L 2 AVAILABLE: #560070, 560102

4 CYL., AUTO

NEW 2015 TACOMA 4X2 XTRACAB

NEW 2015 CAMRY LE

19,190

AFTER TOYOTA $750 REBATE

AFTER $750 REBATE

2 AVAILABLE: #572068, 572093

4 CYL., AUTO, 4 DR

AFTER TOYOTA $750 REBATE

WHO DRIVES A TOYOTA

DARCARS

$0 DOWN

139/MO**

4 DR., AUTO, 4 CYL