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Mel Franklin in Israel, Ray Lambert, The New Purple Line, Beating The Flu, The Arc of Prince George's, Sydney Harrison Real Estate Scholarships, Class Upgrade at PGCC and more
G en er at io n
A New View Of Prince George’s County, Md.
SPRING 2016
By Kendra Lee and Xavier Bias
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Life. As
Prince George's Suite magazine is a glossy lifestyle publication that covers the best of Prince George's living: arts and culture, business, politics, trends, and much more. Four editions for an incredible year.
We Know It. Prince George's Suite Magazine & Media: It's like having the county in the palm of your hand. We deliver four platforms: Prince George's Suite Magazine, Prince George's Suite Destinations, pgsuite.com and pgsuite.com e-broadcast. Prince George's Suite Magazine: Quarterly lifestyle magazine that focuses on the county and region. Prince George's Suite Destinations: Monthly events and happenings guide for consumers, tourists. pgsuite.com: Weekly updated website centered on news, living and events. pgsuite.com e-broadcast: Twice weekly e-Newsletter promoting news and entertainment options. Prince George’s Suite Special Edition: Special limited edition themed publications. Ex: Who's Who
Prince George’s Suite Destinations is a monthly travel guide showcasing leisure events across the DMV. National acts and A-listers to local theater and emerging artists – it’s all here.
DE ESTINATIONS TIIO TIONS ONS Suite Prince George’s
Events Inside: Alvin Ailey Dance Theatre Amel Larrieux Black History Month
FEBRUARY 2016
Prince George's Suite Theme editions such as Who's Who in Prince George's, The Wayne Curry Story and The PowerNetworking Conference as well as Health, Money and Faith.
Suite Prince George’s
A Great View Of Prince George’s County, Maryland
SPRING 2016
Raoul Dennis Publisher/Editor-In-Chief Maria Lopez-Bernstein Assoc. Publisher D. A. Phillips Assoc. Publisher Curtis Symonds Marketing Raoul Dennis, Maria Lopez-Bernstein, Willa Peters Advertising Frank Dexter Brown Olive Vassell Editors At Large Marc Hopkins Managing Editor Maria Lopez-Bernstein Calendar/Events Editor, Webmaster Maria Lopez-Bernstein Online Content Editor Raoul Dennis Art Director/Page Design Brian Young Design Consultant Maria Lopez-Bernstein Calendar Design Amir Stoudamire New Media/Internships Writers D.A. Phillips, Maria Lopez-Bernstein, Tiffany Ellis Hudson, Sheyvonne Ramsey, Mirchaye Silhalu Photographers John W. Body, Jr., Raoul Dennis, Amir Stoudamire,
Consultants Mildred B. Dennis Ed Brown
Cover: Generation Z Dials Up The Future
Prince George’s Suite magazine is published six times per year by RADENN MEDIA GROUP, LLC, P.O. Box 1066, Oxon Hill, MD 20750. 240/273-3248. Subscription rates: $20/year in the United States and all its possessions. Single copies $4.95, plus $1.50 shipping and handling. Periodicals postage paid at Oxon Hill, MD 20750, and at additional mailing offices. All editorial and advertising correspondence should be addressed to RADENN MEDIA GROUP, LLC, P.O. Box 1066, Oxon Hill, MD 20750 or [e-mail: editor@pgsuite.com for Prince George’s Suite magazine]. website: www.pgsuite.com. All contents © 2016 by RADENN MEDIA GROUP, LLC. All rights reserved. ISSN No. 1941-6024. All advertising inquiries should be directed toward advertising@pgsuite.com or call 240/273-3248. Nothing in this publication can be reproduced in any manner without specific written permission of the publisher. Prince George’s Suite magazine and the RADENN MEDIA GROUP, LLC will consider but assume no responsibility for unsolicited materials; these require return postage. Postmaster: Please send address changes to Subscription Department, RADENN MEDIA GROUP, LLC, P.O. Box 1066, Oxon Hill, MD 20750. Printed in the USA
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PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
OutlookOutlookOutlook
Renewal And Growth
Spring brings with it life and renewed hope. This year,
that notion holds especially true for Prince George’s. Consider the resurgence of the local real estate market, the coming of MGM National Harbor, the opening of Dave & Busters, hosting The PowerNetworking Conference (one of Forbes’ “Top 5 Can’t Miss” conferences for entrepreneurs), an audit of the public school system and some $5 billion in economic development. Welcome to this edition of Prince George’s Suite Magazine. Within these pages, we tap into some of the great new developments in the county and several people who help make Prince George’s special. President and CEO of Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce David C. Harrington discusses $5 billion in projects over the next six years in the county. We learn more about Councilmember Mel Franklin’s trip to Israel for education and cultural exchange. We continue our Good Neighbor Campaign series with The Arc Prince George’s County. Director Rob Malone speaks on the programs and we hear from two of the participants as they share their thoughts about being involved with The Arc. For Prince George’s Community College and Bowie State University, more than graduations have been on the near horizon: growth is a big factor on both campuses. Check them both out on pages 16 and 20. In “Daddy’s Home” we honor Father’s Day with a look at father’s rights. We speak with David W. Smith Sr., co-founder and executive director of the Children’s Rights Fund, as he discusses his work in bringing father’s rights to the fore. Did you know that Prince Georgians were living longer? Quality of life and life expectancy in the county are on the rise. “Getting Better All The Time” on page 26. Look for a fuller story on this in
the summer edition. We include several profiles in this edition giving our readers a close-up and personal look at Sheriff Melvin C. High, new Police Chief H.P. “Hank” Stawinski, III, “Chosen Son” Sydney Harrison, Regional Executive of M&T Bank Ray Lambert and Venture Philanthropy Partners Carol Thompson Cole. Finally, we honor the past recognizing two Prince George’s County veterans who served in Vietnam and glimpse the future as we look at Generation Z. While most of us remember and thank those who gave their lives fighting for our country, we look to the future with a bit of trepidation and curiosity. Meet our cover story, Generation Z. Born in the early 2000s, they don’t know life without the Internet. This, coupled with fast paced technology and social media, is a unique staple that could make this group one of humanity’s most profound generations. Certainly, the season is opening doors and opportunities. We don’t know what the future holds. There’s much change and unrest in the country and in the world. But as Prince Georgians, we will do what we always do: hold firm to faith, family, community and continue to push forward to making this county all that it is meant to be. God Bless, The Editors
My House On A Street Called Hip Hop The buildTheodore and others were down too. Me? I was on another vibe ing at 1520 Sedgwick Ave. is considered the birthplace of hip-hop. with Gil Scott Heron and Simon & Garfunkel. But rap was as real I grew up on Sedgwick Avenue and I for me as rock. And no one under 20 was unaware remember the DJs would kick out the of this new culture with its own fashion and dance lamp post covers, plug in turn tables and style. Hip Hop went from a park in the boogie speakers and bring the beat to the street. down to worldwide. Big props to Sedgwick Ave. It was a new thing then: kids would come The push to rename Sedgwick has been a long from blocks around and later, miles, to time coming. DJ Grand Wizard Theodore, who jam while the best cutmasters would battle. later invented the technique of record scratching, It was the home of DJ Kool Herc, who says the move helps educate younger people about pioneered hip-hop record spinning in the At the house: With fam on Sedgwick Ave. circa 1979 1970s. But Flash, Afrika Bambaataa, Lil the history of hip-hop. –Raoul Dennis
A Bronx, NY street will be Hip-Hop Boulevard.
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Who’s Really In The Suite?
Prince George’s Suite is a lifestyle magazine. It’s currently direct mailed to the homes and businesses of high-income residents, business and civic leaders as well as arts, culture, development and entertainment managers in and around Prince George’s County. Subscribe via e-mail: subscribe@pgsuite.com. The Suite is at select locations listed at www.pgsuite.com. PGS Magazine readers are: Homeowners within the county (30% are also working on investment homes). Top and middle managers of local, regional and federal offices and departments with a minimum of 10 employees in their charge. Leaders. Nearly 75% of Prince George’s Suite’s direct mail list consists of county business, community and civic leaders. They are key voices in shaping the direction of Prince George’s County. Reaching Beyond The County: The Suite is also now direct mailed to specific leaders in the District, Northern Virginia and Baltimore. Outside the metropolitan region, it’s shared via direct mail with specific industry leaders in travel, tourism, entertainment, relocation and development in Atlanta, GA., Washington, D.C., Baltimore, MD., Philadelphia, PA., and New York, N.Y. This is done in an effort to introduce more business and travel decision makers to the living and travel opportunities in Prince George’s County.
Every Month
Suite Readers Average age: 38 Women: 52% Men: 48%
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Table Of Spring 2016 A Great View Of Prince George’s County, Md.
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05. Outlook: The season of renewal offers much to Prince George's 10. Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce Letter 12. Stuff: Run for the Money, A Higher Grade Of Golf, Down Home Blues 13. Stuff: Work and Have Fun too, A Centennial Celebration, More Than Just A Good Book 14. Good Neighbor Campaign: Arc of Prince George's 16. PGCC: What’s New at Prince George’s Community College? 17. Around: It’s the Pits! Capital Fringe Fest, Jazz It Up! 26. Business Page: Quality of Life - Getting Better All the Time 12. 42.
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ntents 18. 3URÀOH: Ray Lambert
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20. BSU: After 150 Years, See What Else is Going On 22. 3URÀOH Doctors Community Hospital
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24. 3URÀOH A Look At Fathers’ Rights 28. Feature: Here Comes Generation Z 32. 3URÀOH Venture Philanthropy Partners Executive Director 36. 3URÀOH Sheriff Melvin High 38. 3URÀOH New Police Chief - “Hank” Stawinski 40. 3URÀOH Sydney Harrison
44. 3URÀOH Vietnam Vet Documentary w/ Prince George’s County Veterans
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A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT David Harrington is President and CEO of the Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce. During his tenure, the Chamber has had a 50 percent increase LQ UHYHQXH DQG PHPEHUVKLS DQG SOD\HG D FHQWUDO UROH LQÀXHQFLQJ VWDWH DQG ORFDO SROLF\ $OVR 'DYLG LV 6HQLRU 3ROLF\ $GYLVRU IRU &RPPRQ+HDOWK $&7,21 ± D OHDGLQJ QRQSUR¿W IRU LPSURYLQJ FRPPXQLW\ KHDOWK 3ULRU WR MRLQLQJ WKH &KDPEHU 'DYLG FRPSOHWHG ¿IWHHQ \HDUV RI SXEOLF OLIH FRPPHQFLQJ DV 0D\RU RI Bladensburg, Prince George’s County Councilmember and Maryland State Senator.
Facing The Opportunity To Win Access to capital and wealth is pivotal to increasing entrepreneurial opportunity. In turn, increasing business, is an essential ingredient for directing community resources. Prince George’s County is the epicenter of regional growth with an expected $5 billion in projects during the next six years. This growth, along with other procurement opportunities, has the potential of creating and sustaining Prince George’s businesses for decades. The Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce believes that this is an outstanding time to build business wealth. Certainly with the need to fund the County’s public infrastructure, we must grow a tax base that supports schools, public safety and the non-profit sector. I, along with the Chamber, will work with the County’s Procurement Office and private developers to reach local business with these opportunities through a campaign that advocates increasing public and private procurement to Prince George’s County businesses. In addition, we will examine procurement policy and work with legislators on expanding opportunities.
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CREDIT: COURTESY OF THE OFFICE OF COUNCILMAN MEL FRANKLIN
Local Power Through Global Partnerships Councilman Mel Franklin Travels to Israel For Education And Cultural Exchange ture and universal service,” said Franklin of the experience, didn’t take a step toward it. Actually, a flight. while gaining a “greater understanding of the close relationship On Jan. 9, Prince George’s County Council Member Mel between United States and the State of Israel, and the challenges Franklin (D- Dist. 9), joined a delegation of elected officials, and opportunities of the Middle East peace process. We got a civic leaders and political activists from across the United good sense of the complexities of living in Israel.” States for the week-long 2016 Educational Seminar in Israel for Group economics and international economic support around National African-American Leaders. the world also were a focus of discussion, as well as dialogue “It was an incredibly unifying and eye opening experience,” about terrorism, radical extremism and the realities of the world, Franklin says. which can’t be ignored. “Many of the threats in the Middle East Sponsored by the American Israel Education Foundation, are extended to the U.S.,” he says. “Prince George’s County the seminar explored policy and secuis located in a sensitive national security rity issues affecting Israel and the U.S. region due to our proximity to our nation’s Participants met with a representative capital. Whoever is in Prince George’s of Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin County leadership has to be ready for that.” Netanyahu; a Palestinian Authority But many lessons from abroad can be official; a group representing the applied to Prince George’s. Ethiopian Jewish population, considA crash course in Israeli economics was ered the “Lost Tribe” and media. helpful to prepare youth for the global econParticipants learned innovative Israeli omy. “We probably can’t make the military approaches to international and domesmandatory [here], but if we could promise tic issues; toured religious sites in free school, that would be a transformationJerusalem and near the Sea of Galilee; al experience,” the veteran leader says. “It and participated in strategic surveys of would promote a sense of unity throughout Jerusalem and the Israeli borders with the U.S. We should encourage a communiLebanon, Syria and Gaza. ty-oriented type of national service.” “We got to learn about Israeli cul- View from the top: Mel Franklin at Educational Seminar in Israel. MEL FRANKLIN Page 46 Though he didn’t create world peace
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Run For The Money
Down Home Blues
County REALTORS® Award $10,000 in Scholarships to High School Seniors Ashley Noel Braswell, Nathaniel Brown, Jr., Julie Dale C. Rupal, and Anthony Thornton, all Prince George’s County high school seniors, each received a $2,500 college scholarship from the David Maclin Memorial Scholarship Fund through Prince George’s County Association of REALTORS®. The scholarships were presented at the Annual Maclin 5k Fun Run/Walk on April 23 in recognition of the community service commitment of each student. Over $50,500 in scholarships have been awarded.
24th Annual Bluebird Blues Festival Prince George’s Community College will be hosting their annual Bluebird Blues Festival on September 17. From two stages, enjoy music from nationally known artists including The Jewels, Phil Wiggins and the Chesapeake Sheiks, The Spaniels, Darryl Davis, Clarence “The Bluesman” Turner and many others. There will be activities for children at the Hallam Theatre as well as food and craft vendors. Admission is FREE to the public.
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Stuff
6th Annual Golfing for Education Tournament These aren't the power brokers meeting on the “TEE,” this is the tournament to aid future movers and shakers. Financial assistance is the goal to see students successfully through their academic years. The Excellence in Education Foundation for PGCPS, Inc., returns in June with their 6th Annual Golfing for Education Tournament. Proceeds will be used to support Prince George’s County public school students’ scholarships and other programs related to education. It doesn’t take a village to educate the future, it takes all hands on deck at Oak Creek Golf Course in Upper Marlboro, MD. For more information see, www1.pgcps.org/ golfingforeducation/
Nextt & BeYond
The Purple Majesty New Train To Have A Light Distinction To many, the Purple Line was justt going to be anotherr carrim. In fact, the Purple Line, er on the Metro Rail System. which is slated to open in March 2022, is partt off a m Bethesdaa in light rail system. It will runn from Montgomery County to New w Carrollton ing ridin Prince George’s connecting en ers with Metro’s Red, Green and Orange lines as well as the local buses, MARC and Amtrak trains. The light rail train will operate along busy streets powered sed by overhead wires as opposed hich to the Metro Rail train (which ail along the is powered by an electric rail ground). 12.
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Who Says You Can’t Work And Have Fun Too Bowiefest 2016 One of the annual events of the summer, Bowiefest, will be held June 4. A long-standing tradition, the festival in Bowie, Md. brings local entertainers, business and civic organizations together to meet, mingle and share what they do in the community. Families, corporate partners, and guests enjoy food, entertainment, arts and crafts, and even a home and health business expo. For more information, see www.cityofbowie.org/?nid=783
Stuff
A Centennial Celebration 100 Years of Bowie; 1916-2016 From the humble beginnings of a small railroad town called Huntington to its incorporation on April 18, 1916, the town of Bowie has grown to become the fifth largest city in Maryland. This year, Bowie celebrates the centennial of its charter. Named in honor of Maryland Governor Oden Bowie, this city is proud of its diversity, community, faith-based organizations, and economic growth. For more information on the city and its centennial celebrations, see www.cityofbowie.org/
Next & BeYond
More Than Just A Good Book PGCMLS Offers Choices Finding a good book at the local library will always be a popular notion to many, but in the 21st century, library goers want more options than just a book in hand. What is a local library to do? Adapt! Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) offers an array of ways to keep one’s intelligence quotient up. Downloadable e-books and audio books are available with a library card and pin. There are online courses and tutoring programs. And it’s not all about books. Learn how to crochet, knit, or play chess. Take computer literacy classes -available for young adults and seniors, and so much more. And for the little ones? Some things don’t change; story-telling hours are still available. www.pgcmls.info/ PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE PRIN
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people empowering prince georgians
Framers of the Human Arc The Arc of Prince George’s County Opens Doors and Opportunities PHOTO: AMIR STOUDAMIRE
at the the workforce right away. Arc really make me and Jeff feel like “I thought it would be a rehash of high family,” an emotional Gwendolyn Jack school and college but they devised a more Rolston says. “They make me feel that specialized approach,” he says. “Arc prosupport. When he goes there, he is in vided exposure to office skills that I would good hands.” not have thought possible otherwise.” Since The “there” Rolston is talking about 2014, Calhoun has been utilizing the skills is The Arc, the world's largest grasshe learned at the Federal Communications roots organization designed to benefit Commission. He’ll be eligible for a raise by the well-being of people with developthe end of this year. mental disabilities and their families. For the last 60 years, The Arc, the nationThe Arc of Prince George’s County al organization, has remained committed to is one of the organization’s more than 700 national chapters, and it is made Show Off: Arc of Prince George’s Executive Director Rob protecting the rights of children and adults up of 600 members, including develop- Malone shares excitement about the Arc at a celebration who are intellectually and developmentalmentally disabled people, their families and awareness event in March. ly disabled, while educating parents and and friends, the professionals who work with them, and other others regarding the potential of this group of people. The concerned citizens. organization has advocated for the passage of state and federal Prince George’s County’s Arc is unlike many of the other legislation on behalf of those with disabilities and established a chapters. “In [Prince George’s County] it’s unique because the broad network of state and local chapters. From day programs makeup of the clients is diverse—older, younger, mixed eth- to employment assistance, from helping people with intellectual nically. That makes us unique,” says Executive Director Rob disabilities navigate the criminal justice system to housing assisMalone. “Family members connect because the core group helps tance, The Arc provides services through the 140,000 members strive for advocacy for the family and individual. Advocating is of its 700 state and local chapters. what we do.” Arc of Prince George’s County has streamlined during Do they ever! Arc of Prince George’s provides a ton of services Malone’s tenure, better organizing and deploying staff and to both children and adults, including childcare, education advocacy, support groups, community-supported living arrangements adding board members. “We have made amazing progress this and day services. The organization supports 700 people each year,” he says. “These things position us well for next year. We will have one of four day centers. We will rework that program day, 3,500 families a year. Jeff Rolston is one of the people Arc so it’s not a facility-based program, but we of Prince George’s County supports. are in the field most of the time. This will He has attended Bridges Day Program give people more choice and lead to healthsince 2013, and it’s his second home. ier individuals.” “Many may say I don’t have a voice This is certainly true for Calhoun. because I don’t use words to speak, but “Arc provides a comfortable and safe that’s far from the truth,” he says. “My environment for training—how to do family and friends, especially at Bridges office-related tasks and working with Day Program, understand me and let co-workers,” he says. “It’s the kind of thing me express myself often.” With nearly a lot of people take for granted.” perfect attendance, Jeff says he has no Gwendolyn Jack-Rolston doesn’t take plans to go anywhere else. Arc for granted. “We went to other [placKeith Calhoun, 26, of Bowie, has es],” she says, “but Arc was the best fit. had a similar experience with Arc. He took part in their training program and Another great time: The annual Bowling Bash is always a [Jeff] feels so loved and comfortable. He is learned skills that enabled him to enter winner at The Arc. in his second home.” “The members of the staff
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In Step: The Arc of Prince George’s incorporates activities for the mind, body and spirit.
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ALL PHOTOS: AMIR STOUDAMIRE
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An Upgrade In Class Prince George’s Community College Preps For More Than Just A Facelift DMSI Documentary: Striving for the Extraordinary
The Diverse Male Student Initiatives (DMSI) documentary, “Striving for the Extraordinary,” garnered support from the community and generated buzz across the county (and beyond) when it was featured on NBC4. One of the goals of Diverse Male Student Initiatives is to empower men to focus their energies toward self-improvement. www.pgcc.edu/News_Stories Commencement 2016
Opening of the Financial Empowerment Center
Rosie Allen-Herring, president and CEO of UWNCA, Aimee Olivo, chair of the PGCC Board of Trustees, members of the PGCC Foundation and a host of other community partners attended the official grand opening and ribbon cutting of the Financial Empowerment Center (FEC) April 19. The FEC provides services to assist individuals and families in Prince George’s County as they get on a path to financial stability.
State’s Attorney Angela Alsobrooks delivered the keynote speech at Prince George’s Community College’s 57th Commencement Exercises held on May 26 at the Show Place Arena. Adam Alston was student speaker. The Dealer School Training second class of graduates Program MGM National Harbor and of the Academy of Health Sciences received their high PGCC have partnered to school diplomas on the same launch the “Dealer School” day as their Associate of Arts - a new workforce training program launched May 16 that degree. will provide potential candidates with the skills necessary to apply for future jobs at the resort’s casino table games department.
Business Leadership Council Networking Breakfast
The Business Leadership Council (BLC) of the PGCC Foundation and the Office of Institutional Advancement hosted a networking breakfast April 21 to enlighten and recruit prospective members. Over 40 local businesses attended the breakfast. In partnership with PGCC, the BLC works to support the growth of Prince George’s County by advancing philanthropy for higher education and workforce development. PHOTO: AMIR STOUDAMIRE 16.
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A
Bowie, MD
Around
The Region Starring Sherlock
Solve A Murder Mystery Every Month! Love solving murder mysteries on the screen? Try your investigative skills the third Wednesday of every month at Murder Mystery Theatre when the BCT troupe commits a crime you’re invited to solve at a Bowie Wendy’s restaurant. bctheatre.com
Washington, DC
Jazz It Up! Annual D.C. Jazz Festival Thousands of music lovers will flock to the nation’s capital for the annual D.C. Jazz Festival, June 10-19. With four main stages across D.C. showcasing jazz’s most acclaimed artists and some emerging ones, you’ll enjoy Maceo Parker, Regina Carter, Eddie Palmieri, Kamasi Washington and many more. Don’t miss out on Igmar Thomas and the Revive Big Band’s premiere, “A Journey Through the Legacy of Black Culture” on June 19. Known artists will join them in a musical odyssey of jazz, soul, blues, rock & roll and R&B, honoring music from Louis Armstrong and Marvin Gaye to Tupac Shakur. dcjazzfest.org
It’s the Pits!
Capital Fringe Fest
Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle Returns In its 24th season, the popular Annual Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle returns June 25-26. Thirty bands and entertainers, including Marcus Johnson, Be’la Dona, Secret Society, Marcus Mitchell and Bad Influence, will perform on three stages. Enjoy celebrity chef cooking demonstrations, a Nathan’s hot dog eating contest, fun family activities and some of the best BBQ in the nation as grill masters compete for top prizes and bragging rights. bbqindc.com
Creative Community Kicks Off Second Decade See. Hear. Feel. That’s the experience at the 11th Annual Capital Fringe Festival that brings together D.C.’s creative community—comedy, dance, music, and everything in between. Celebrate the performing arts, July 7-31. capitalfringe.com
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A Ray Lambert Kind Of Success A Finance Professional with a Knack for Numbers and People
Against Poverty’s Rasheeda Jamison-Harriott of Lambert’s multi-tiered abilities to be a regional bank leader and serve as chair of UCAP. “He is at the top of the tier as the board chair You can’t teach what Raymond Lambert does. That may be because it’s not what he does as much as it may and still does what he does at M&T Bank. You don’t find that very often. He does it effortlessly and not as a chore or afterbe who he is that inspires what he does. On average, he puts in 15 hours per week across the five boards thought. He works here as though he is paid staff.” Lambert successfully delivers that one-two punch: the science that he sits on. He rolls up his sleeves and puts in another four hours work per week aiding poverty stricken residents in Prince of numbers and the natural gift of connecting with people for a George’s. A family man, it’s Ray’s job to be home to help his purpose. In addition to the boards, he serves as a member of the ten-year-old son Andrew with homework. He gets that done, too. grants awards committee of the Community Foundation, Inc. He holds executive roles within county boards including the Prince And then there’s the day job. By trade, Raymond D. Lambert, Sr. is a successful regional George’s Economic Development Corporation, Leadership Prince George’s Inc., UCAP and Beechtree Homeowners executive at M&T Bank. He incorporates all that Association. being a power player in the banking world The finance professional with the easy demeanimplies: skill with financial analysis, projecor, cool charm and decisive manner has built tions, understanding trends and applying a career understanding the nuances of busithat to the best interests of the bank and ness and people. Those traits paid diviits clients. He has risen to the heights of dends in 2015 when Lambert was named the business at one of the longest standAdministrative Vice President. The role ing banks in the nation’s history. makes him responsible for the strategic But life is more than a trade. And Mr. development and growth of the bank, within Lambert—who always had a touch, a the region, by increasing the awareness of the smile, an approach with people, blends bank’s presence in the community. He’s also that natural gift with his drive to make tasked with growing market shares through an impact on his community. precision, leadership and networking with “This is the front line of the war against The few, the proud: Ray and General James F. Amos Commandant of the Marine Corps, 2010-2014 poverty,” says United Communities banking partners.
By Raoul Dennis and Timothy Myers
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The position requires that he grow the customer base and existing customers in two major portions of the region: Washington, D.C. and Prince George’s County, Md.---easier said than done as each market has its own culture and demands a specific touch. “It’s a lot of responsibility,” says Lambert. “It represents two different client bases but you handle it by trusting your people.” But then, that’s why not just anybody walks into the position. Stephen Heine is the Group Vice President/Greater Washington Retail Market Manager at M&T. He’s also Lambert’s boss. “Ray leads a region where he has to spend a lot of time in developing their skill sets from individual to business owners to evolve their communication and activity. He has to ensure that his team understands what it means to be the best banking professional,” Heine says. “He will move the support, the resources and the guidance. Our objective here isn’t just to be the best bank but to be the best banking professionals. You have to do a lot of things right.” M&T’s philosophy centers on strengthening the communities it serves. Fiscally stronger communities require stronger banks. Lambert is tailor-made for that approach: he loves bridging the divide between community and the power of financial planning because he’s connected to those communities. He’s been there.
with numbers and analysis, the young student was a recipient of a four-year naval scholarship where he majored in electronic engineering (minored in Naval Science). He later served as a naval officer. After leaving the military, he began his career anew in the civilian sector and leveraged his management skills, which he honed from the military, into the private sector. It wasn’t until learning banking--from scratch--that he began a career in it. The senior administrator reminisced on two decades prior and says that M&T and its format along with his desire to help people made sense. It resonated with his longstanding sense to give back what he has been given. “I know that my debt is not paid until I’m through and I have crossed that River Jordan. It takes a village to raise a child but it takes leaders and individuals to make a strong community. I’m a product of public schools,” Lambert further says even including his work as a tutor at Henry Wise High School. “Those are my kids.”
A Home At M&T It has been over 24 years since the young Norfolk State University graduate chose his path in banking (ten of those years at M&T). The fit was hand in glove for Lambert. Founded in 1856, M&T is among the oldest financial institutions in the nation. It provides products from consumer banking to global wealth manGlobe Toddler agement. M&T Bank Corporation had $123 billion in assets as “My cousins will tell you that it was interesting growing up,” of December 31, 2015, and is one of the 20 largest commercial says Lambert as a former overseas military brat who settled home bank holding companies in the U.S. M&T Bank has over 800 again in the U.S. as an eighth grader with his birth father. His domestic branches & over 1,500 ATMs across New York, parents divorced when he was only five and his mother remarried Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Connecticut, to a career military man. By the time he’d moved in with his dad, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. The bank young Ray was being tempted by the dark side. “I saw where acquired Hudson City Bancorp, Inc. in late 2015 and converted [those choices] could lead me and I didn’t want that. I was in it over in February. M&T Bank has a net income of over $1.079 high school toward the end of freshman and beginning of soph- billion (2015). omore year. You choose the wrong path and it’s hard to come “Our bank delivers: for much of the last five years, we have back from it.” been the number one SBA lender in the greater Washington, The Prince Georgian revels in the lessons that shaped his D.C. area,” Heine says. “Greenwich Consulting has recognized us development. From the conversations with his great grandmother numerous times over the last five years for excellence in business about her vision for him to the values his stepfather taught him in banking.” looking a man in the eye and a firm handshake to the disciLambert positively remarks on the technology and service pline in work he learned from his dad, it all stuck. based changes that have taken place in the industry over “They all invested in me,” he continues. the years. “[They] require us now to watch the career “My parents never went to college: they growth and development of an individual doing were blue collar workers although my more than they ever thought they could. That mother did graduate college later. So it makes them more valuable to the bank and put a lot on our shoulders to lead the themselves and to our client base. So to us, it’s way – college, support and sacrifice an even stronger opportunity to excel.” for others who helped us get there At the same time, the executive says being and then make sure others were able named to the post is a tremendous honor. to do so.” “I was very honored to receive this new But the veteran’s journey didn’t always position but I was very humbled at the same point toward banking. Electronic engitime,” Lambert says. “I was really humbled in neering was his first love. Nor did he get thinking back about the work, the efforts and his financial expertise from school. Great the commitment it takes to get to this level.” Fun Night: At the Verizon Center with family and former LAMBERT Page 46 District Heights Mayor Carol Johnson PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
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Hot Stuff at BSU Bowie State University is not just resting on its laurels after celebrating its 150th Anniversary; it continues to make history while producing graduates who will become part of Maryland’s oldest Historically Black College/University. Take a look at what else has been going on. ALL PHOTOS COURTESY BOWIE STATE UNIVERSITY
Gala Success with Kim and Will
Gettin
You may remember Kim Coles as the endearing character “Synclaire” from the hit show “Living Single” in 1993. And you may know Grammy Award-nominated singer/songwriter Will Downing for such hits as “Don’t Talk To Me Like That” and “Wishing On A Star”. Together, their wit and musical genius lit up the stage at the Bowie State University Founders Day Awards Gala.
Honoring BSU Maryland Historical Trust dedicated a historical marker on the campus of Bowie State University for their considerable impact on Maryland’s history. Since its founding in 1865, BSU has continued to provide academic excellence and community service for the betterment of the county and state.
$2.5 Million in Grants The Department of Education has awarded $2.5 million in grants to BSU in order to train special educators to work with children with disabilities. Due to significant teacher shortages in special education, BSU has developed two programs to help meet the growing demand by training 78 new special educators.
Hip Hop Courses A new minor begins at BSU’s Department of Fine and Performing Arts, College of Arts & Sciences. The Hip Hop and Visual Culture minor explores hip hop and its relationship to the global society from different points of view: cultural, social, economic, artistic, etc. The class starts in fall 2016.
Foundation Awards Gala Bowie State University Founders Day Awards Gala celebrated the anniversary of the founding of Bowie
State University with national and local celebs, university presidents, corporate executives, and community leaders among others. Individuals who made a significant impact were honored and deserving students were awarded scholarships towards continued education.
Graduate Keynote Speaker Civil Rights Icon Congressman John Lewis, recipient of numerous awards including the Medal of Freedom addressed about 650 graduates and their families during the spring commencement graduation at Bowie State University. ALL PHOTOS COURTESY BOWIE STATE UNIVERSITY
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ng Schooled Bowie State University
Moves Ahead With Vision And Grace
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IS IT THE FLU OR A COMMON COLD? More than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu-related complications each year[1]. In addition to getting an annual flu shot, it is important to learn the differences between the flu and a common cold. Dr. Puneet Chopra, MD, chair and medical director of Observation and Emergency Services at Doctors Community Hospital, educates people about these two health conditions.
Q: What are the differences between the flu and a cold? Usually, people start experiencing flu symptoms very suddenly, but cold symptoms usually emerge more gradually. The biggest sign of flu is a high fever—between 100°F and 102°F—accompanied by body aches, exhaustion and sometimes a cough. People who have colds often experience sneezing, and a stuffy or runny nose. The below side-by-side chart compares these two illnesses. SYMPTOMS
COLD
FLU
Fever
• Uncommon
• High between 100-102°F
Headaches
• Uncommon
• Prominent
General body aches
• Mild
• Common and can be severe
Fatigue or exhaustion
• Very mild
• Prominent and can last days to weeks
Stuffy or runny nose
• Common
• Sometimes
Sneezing
• Common
• Sometimes
Sore throat
• Common
• Sometimes
Cough
• Mild to moderate
• Common and can become severe
Q: Who is most at risk for getting the flu? Anyone can catch the flu. However, people may be at a higher risk of developing related complications (e.g. dehydration, bacterial pneumonia, sinus infections, ear infections, etc.) because of their immune systems. These people include seniors, children, infants and pregnant women. In fact, ninety percent of flu-related deaths and more than half of the flu-related hospitalizations occur in people ages 65 and older.[2] [1] [2]
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/disease.htm, 11/3/14 Flu.gov, http://www.flu.gov/at-risk/seniors/index.html, 9/21/2015
Q: What can people do to treat their colds or flu? There are no cures for colds or the flu. However, over-the-counter cold medicines and cough suppressants can offer temporary symptom relief. Gargling with warm salt water can help ease discomfort from a sore throat. Also, people should get plenty of rest and stay well hydrated. Q: When should people visit their doctors? Flu symptoms usually subside within a week or two on their own, but sometimes medical treatment may be necessary. For example, congestion can lead to ear or sinus infections that may require antibiotics. Flu-related coughs can worsen and lead to serious conditions such as pneumonia. People should visit their primary care doctors or an emergency department if: • Their fevers do not subside within a few days or worsens • They can’t keep down food or beverages for longer than 48 hours • Their coughs worsen or lasts longer than two or three weeks • Their congestion or headaches worsens and doesn’t respond to cold medicine If at any time people have difficulty breathing or experience chest pain, they should call 911 immediately to receive emergency care.
Q: What can people do to avoid getting sick? Healthy lifestyles—exercising, eating a balanced diet, not smoking, etc. — contribute to overall wellbeing. Also, people should wash their hands and surfaces (e.g. kitchen counters, stair railings, etc.) regularly where cold and flu germs are likely to be present. When people are sick, they should stay at home to prevent infecting others. Also, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone ages six months and older receive an annual flu vaccination with rare exceptions.[3] Remember, this vaccination does not cause the flu. [3]
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, http://www.cdc.gov/flu/consumer/vaccinations.htm, 11/3/14
Doctors Community Hospital’s Emergency Department Our board-certified emergency medical specialists are available 24/7 to evaluate, diagnose and treat a wide range of urgent and life-threatening conditions. With access to a diagnostic laboratory and technology, people can count on our Emergency Department to receive high-quality and compassionate care conveniently available in their neighborhood. Doctors Community Hospital We are a premier medical and surgical hospital that provides comprehensive and high-quality care – all conveniently available in your neighborhood. Some of our specialty programs and services include: + Bariatric and Weight Loss Center + Cardiology Services and Outpatient Vascular Studies + Center for Comprehensive Breast Care + Center for Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Medicine + Comprehensive Orthopedic Services + Comprehensive Rehabilitation Program + Doctors Community Rehabilitation and Patient Care Center
+ + + + + + + +
Doctors Regional Cancer Center Emergency Services Imaging Services Infusion Center Joslin Diabetes Center Metropolitan Medical Specialists Sleep Center Vascular Health Program
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us today! 301-DCH-4YOU | 301-324-4968 | DCHweb.org
STAY CONNECTED! Doctors Community Hospital
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DCH4YOU
8118 Good Luck Road Lanham, MD 20706
The Princess shines: 'My Daddy is Best' 'DYLG 6PLWK 6U DW FHQWHU LV ÀDQNHG E\ FRPPXQLW\ OHDGHUV
Actor/rapper Tray Chaney leads onstage celebration of great fathers.
Daddy's Home
David Smith Sr. Leads Fathers’ Rights Efforts In Maryland But 12 years ago, if he wanted to spend time with them, he realized he had a problem. “I went from having custody of my kids to losing it in 2009,� Smith says. “The decision wasn’t based on how I was as a parent but instead on the bias the system has against fathers.� He fought for about four years to reverse the decision but says, “no one would listen nor change it. That’s what prompted me to begin my advocacy work to change legislation and increase awareness plus increase parenting education and judicial education.� That was the beginning of Smith’s journey with an issue that many fathers face. For decades in Maryland and most of the country, women stood a much higher probability of getting full custody of the child. There is a movement to change that. He didn’t know it at the time, but Smith would eventually become a champion of father’s rights as co-founder and executive director of the Children's Rights Fund. The Children’s Rights Fund, launched in 2011, aims to secure the “best interest� of the children and to protect the rights of the children with both parents. It focuses on legal and social reform for shared parenting. “Me and my partner, the late David L. Levy, advocated for the rights of children,� he says. Levy had already been involved in it for 40 years and met Smith in 2009. “We developed the Children’s Rights Fund.� Smith credits Levy for mentoring him in the advocacy work and says that the mantle has fallen to him now with Levy’s passing in 2014. Today, Smith supports families in several capacities. “My primary mission is legislation with education,� Smith explains. “I want to be able to create strong legislation that will get education implemented for the parents, the courts, etc. That’s when you have accountability.� The native Prince Georgian has teamed with Sen. Anthony Muse, local celebrities such as DJ EZ Street and actor Tray Chaney and others to raise awareness and passions about parenting and the rights of fathers. He is also vice president of 100 Fathers, a fathers’ support organization. The legislation work is an ongoing process. The most recent Naturally, David W. Smith, Sr. loves his children.
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had been “A rebuttable presumption of shared parenting or ‘joint custody.’� Now it’s called “Parenting Time.� “It did pass legislation two years ago regarding custody commission. It needs work but it’s a start and we are continuing to press forward.� “There is backlash when you challenge the court system,� he says. “That’s what happens when you change something that doesn’t want to be changed. They don’t want to bend or break and I keep pushing.� But progress is being made. More fathers are being recognized as loving and nurturing parents just as mothers are. In 2002, the American Psychological Association pointed to research that concluded that children were likely to be better adjusted in joint versus sole custody arrangements in most cases. However, Smith noted that big systems can be slow to change. This is especially true for the unmarried fathers of these children who have a harder time gaining joint custody. In Maryland, 2015 statistics show that fathers win child custody in contested cases 50% of the time. In uncontested cases, however, dads are the custodial parent only 10% of the time. “The tide is turning but the opposition doesn’t want [to] turn with it,� says Smith. “You gotta think about solutions.� Bottom line, it's all about the children, he says. “The child just wants to love both his parents,� Smith says. “When they get stuck in the middle, it just gets worse for the kids. I try to tell the parents to keep child in the middle and not as a stretching doll between you -- otherwise you may lose them when they get older.� The activist more recently hosted the third annual fatherhood awards ceremony in May. Several fathers were recognized by their families and the communities for their exemplary support and work with children and their neighborhoods. The future holds more for Smith. Now in a solid and positive routine with his own children, he has started a fatherhood curriculum program – endorsed by My Brother’s Keeper and is considering penning a children’s book. Through it all, the leader says he’s let go of any anger he may have had at the start of this challenge. There are things in life one can’t change, “but I can change what is happening for my kids. Always work to change you and what you can do for your kids.�
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CREDIT: MAURICE FITZGERALD
PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
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Getting Better All The Time Quality of Life, Health Patterns Are in Positive Growth
Prince Georgians Investing In Prince George’s Introducing: The Prince George’s County Quality of Life Index
The Greater Prince George’s Business Roundtable 10201 Martin Luther King, Jr. Highway, Suite 220 Bowie, MD 20720 www.bizroundtable.org 26.
Prince
Georgians
are
living
exercising more, graduating more kids from high school and enjoying an increase in sales prices of their homes. These were just a few highlights of the quality of life in Prince George’s as published and presented by the Greater Prince George’s Business Roundtable in its 2016 Pres. and CEO of the Quality of Life Index and a report by County Council Greater Prince George’s Chairman, Derrick Leon Business Roundtable M.H. the Prince George’s County Department Davis (Dist-6) “Jim” Estepp of Health at a county council session on health in April. Dr. Joseph L. Wright, Chairman, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Howard University College of Medicine, presented the findings along with GPGBR’s Jim Estepp, Sr., James Estepp, Jr. and Pamela B. Creekmur, health officer with the Prince George's County Department of Health. But it’s the increase in life span that really pushed the hot button. “If you want an area to really talk about, [adding] 2.1 years over a relatively short period of time to life expectancy, is it. I don’t know of anything that’s more important to the folks that live here,” said Jim Estepp, Sr. of the Greater Prince George’s Business Roundtable. “You don’t see that kind of positive movement in such a short period of time,” Dr. Wright announced to the council. The county is trending well across numerous categories including secondary education enrollment, high school graduation and even consistent reduction in fire-related deaths. Prince George’s unemployment rate has decreased from 7.1% to 4.5%. Says Estepp: “From 2011 to 2014 the average sales price of a home in Prince George’s County went up more than $54,000—almost a 30% increase. The average time that a house is on the market is 49 days as opposed to 102 a few years ago. That’s been cut in half—you have to be very proud of that.” Pamela Creekmur took a moment to recognize the significant impact of the comprehensive and interagency/interoffice approach to greater results in governing. “It’s absolutely correct that the efforts of this entire county, this elected body, the county executive's office and all of us working well together [to set these trends in motion]. As we continue to work together in our collective places to make an impact on the quality of life from Prince George’s County, it will make for a great story," she says.
longer,
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Recruiting Professionals to Join Our Team! ϐ the current positions: Portfolio Manager Commercial Loan Underwriter Visit our website for more information 1801 McCormick Drive Suite 300 Largo, Maryland 20774 Ǥ ϐ Ǥ ȁ ̷ ϐ Ǥ ȁ ͵ͲͳǦͺͺ͵ǦͻͲͲ PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
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Ain,t Nothing But How Do We Raise A Generation Whose
By Kendra Lee and Xavier Bias
They are technologically and inherently more
advanced than their parents and Millennials--and they seem to know it. Watch out, Millennials! Those footsteps you hear hot on your trail are those of Generation Z, the tweens and teens born just before the turn of the century and marked by super multitasking abilities and a conscientious yet anxious cynicism. We’re familiar with the calling card of the Millennials: the entitled, self-involved, oversharing selfie fanatics born between 19801995 and represented by Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg and HBO’s “Girlfriends” star Lena Dunham. By contrast, most of the 60 million Gen Z members came of age after the terror attacks of September 11, 2001. Born into a less-secure world, they may have their heads down, multitasking on their devices (they’re unlikely to remember a world without smartphones and social media), but they’re fully aware of their surroundings. And they are a big bunch so there’s no ignoring their influence. According to Forbes, in 2015 Generation Z made up 25% of the U.S. population, making them a larger cohort than the Baby Boomers or Millennials. Primed to become the dominant youth influencers of tomorrow, this generation has entrepreneurial leanings with strong interests in being their own bosses—though many of them aren’t yet out of high school. They have so much independent ability and influence – and they know it. “Gen Z sees things differently. In addition to having smartphones—millennials have that as well, but not the on-demand kind of culture—it’s about how we view and consume information,” says Dr. Christine Barrow, dean of the STEM division at Prince George’s Community College. “There was a time when in order to get information you needed, you had to wait until a specific time. This generation doesn’t have to wait. Any time there’s an expectation and it’s not met, there’s less patience.” (See Understanding The Next Generation,” page 30). Still, their attention spans are short, a point not lost on marketers—hence six-second Vine videos, Snapchat and a growing number of emojis. Gen Z may have multiple social media accounts, but they are much more private, rarely creating accounts for Facebook, where everything they do and post can be seen by many people forever, and instead embracing platforms like Secret or Whisper, where images disappear almost as soon as they are created. 28.
Their communication with marketing research and academics suggests that Gen Z experience 4D Thinking. These young folks are hyper-aware of their environment because their brains are hardwired to travel in multiple directions at once. Multitasking is an understatement, and two screens aren’t enough; they can juggle four screens at a time, from their smartwatches to the television. Holding a conversation will be different with them, since their eyes will be on one of their many screens. It’s tough for parents to keep up with. County Councilmember Mary Lehman (D-District 1) hosted a town hall meeting on parenting in cyber age in March. “Our kids are moving on to other social media on the Net just when we are maybe just getting a sense of what Snapchat is. It moves very fast.” (See “Keep An Eye On Them,” Page 31.) “Gen Zers are more likely to be into Snapchat; that’s true,” Barrow says. “But I think only a part of it is about security, though. And it’s a perceived security, because even Snapchat is not as secure as they think. We are always encouraging everyone at all ages about the importance of being mindful—don’t assume anything you post is secure.” In spite of what seems like an inability to focus, however, Gen Z has been shaped by the world and economic events of their formative years, and they tend to be more sensible and pragmatic than Millennials. According to a survey of risky behavior, the Gen Z kids are less likely to drink alcohol while still in high school and far more likely to wear seat belts. Their Generation X parents—sometimes derisively called helicopter parents—have informed their collective worldview and emphasized safety. They are, according to economist Neil Howe, who studies American generations, akin to the Silent Generation, children of the late 1920s through the early ’40s. Living through the Great Depression and World War II, that generation (Gen Z’s great-grandparents) grew up to be diligent, career-focused, family-first adults. And since they also grew up to be the richest generation in history, it’s not a shabby comparison for Gen Z. But with all their abilities and global access, Gen Zers already have far more influence and reach than any generation before them and they are quite accustomed to it. They will have to learn to balance the instant gratification they expect with the natural rigors of life that are not always so black and white. No matter what, it’s going to be interesting.
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, , A Z Thing, Baby Global Reach Is There At Birth?
More About Gen Z According to Census data and Wikipedia Non-traditional households are one of the most prominent features associated with Generation Z's familial culture. In the 2010s, fewer women are having children (around 80 percent of those of childbearing age, against 90 percent in the 1970s); and those who do, have fewer children at a later age. Marriage rates have fallen as well as divorce rates, which are still relatively high. According to the U.S. census of 2010, both women and men get married at a later age - women's first marriage averaging to the age of 26 and men's to the age of 29. This is due to the popular idea of becoming financially and emotionally independent before beginning a life with a significant other or children. Multiracial families have also become very prevalent. In the U.S. census of 2001, 6.8% of people under the age of 18 claimed to be more than one race. In addition to an increase in multiracial families, there are more same-sex marriages and families in communities across the country. PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
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View from the top: At this age Baby Boomers were learning to ride tricycles, Generation Z is connecting to the entire planet. Gen Z will not see the world as an overwhelming SODFH EXW WKH\ PD\ ¿QG XQGHUVWDQGLQJ RWKHU SHRSOH WR EH D FKDOOHQJH
Understanding The Next Generation Dr. Christine Barrow has been a member of the Prince George’s Community College faculty for fifteen years. She is dean of the STEM Division that educates over 5,000 students each year. Dr. Barrow has helped secure over $21 million in grants for the College and its partners to establish the STEM Collegian Center, support research, professional development, dual enrollment, and establish the Information Technology Early College. Dr. Barrow works to engage students in research and to empower them to make wise educational decisions. The following is a direct transcript from a recent interview with Dr. Barrow regarding Generation Z: “One of the biggest things to keep in mind: Gen Z is used to an on-demand environment. Gen Z sees things differently. In addition to having smartphones—millennials have that as well, but not the on-demand kind of culture—it’s about how we view and consume information. There was a time when in order to get information you needed, you had to wait until a specific time. This generation doesn’t have to wait. Any time there’s an expectation and it’s not met, there’s less patience. If you’re going to educate or work with that generation, you have to be mindful of what they’ve experienced. We need to be mindful of their technology infrastructure. One student may have with them—and use—3 or 4 different devices in the course of one day, and not in a haphazard
way, like checking email. They’re actually using them, integrating them as part of their educational experience. It gives them access and engages them. If that’s one of the ways students engage, you have to have the right technology solutions. For instance, mobile technolDr. Christine Barrow ogy is very important, so having some of your educational resources in a mobile format is critical. The technology infrastructure has to be in place—from a wireless standpoint, from a security standpoint. Those things are key. The engagement piece is critical. And it can’t be passive information. The students we’re talking about, they’re used to push notifications. To that end, we are working on our technology infrastructure at PGCC. We’re also working on engaging students younger— earlier in their career. The traditional model has been finish high school and come to college. What we’re doing to raise the bar is engage the students earlier—formally, through dual enrollment, summer programs - things like that. Informally, we’re going to middle schools and high schools and talking about what it means to be X—an engineer or a nurse, so they can have that NEXT GENERATION Page 46
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Danger Zones: Along with the wonders on the Web come new threats. Parents are developing strategies and new social networks of their own to manage these challenges.
Keep An Eye On Them Councilmember Mary Lehman Draws Spotlight on Family & Social Media Through Town Hall Meeting The impact of social media on Generation Z and all families is only beginning to be understood. What is certain is that families must prepare for the new normal of social media being a part of daily life. Thousands of children can potentially be victims of the vast, fast paced medium, sometimes simply as a result of poor judgment and youthful curiosity. Parents, teachers and community leaders are realizing that they will have to take a more forward-thinking role in this arena in order to get ahead of its potentially harmful influences on children. The following is a direct transcript from an interview with District 1 Councilmember Mary Lehman, who, as a parent and leader, decided to hold “Social Media 101,” a town hall meeting in April at Laurel Hill High School to discuss social media and safety. “After I got over being horrified at something my own kids did online, I realized that I know very little about this digital world and my kids are in the center of it. They realized later that they should not have done it but I realized that even my own kids can show poor judgment. I am a pretty good parent. But I knew that I wasn’t the only one (as far as parents go) dealing with this. There must be other parents in the same boat. There is a serious safety aspect as well. We all need to know more about what’s out there in social media and how kids are using them. They are not all bad but we need to know. This began the conversation and led to my decision to hold the town hall meeting. I was disappointed that there were just a few dozen people in attendance. We need to do more around this issue. PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
Our kids are moving on to other social media on the Net just when we are maybe just getting a sense of what Snapchat is, for example. It moves very fast. It’s constant and it will continue to be. These apps will continue to be generated very quickly. We have to stay focused and try to County Councilmember Mary A. keep pace with all of this. Lehman (D-Dist. 1) State’s Attorney Angela Alsobrooks attended the town hall and said this should be the start of this conversation. She called for more community involvement and awareness. It needs to be ongoing to keep teachers and parents engaged. A Few Solutions Have a family charging station for overnight use. That brings everyone together in one central location and that will cut down on the likelihood that your child will wait until everyone is asleep and they may be chatting. Talk to your kids about the Web. Start a conversation of Dos and Don’ts. Make it clear. Block sites and apps you don’t like. Google your child’s name occasionally. See what comes up, track, record and address it. For other tips go to: http://micheleborba.com/
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A Leader of the Freer World
PHOTO: AMIR STOUDAMIRE
Carol Thompson Cole Came Back to The DC Area Because She Believed that Venture Philanthropy Partners Was the Best Way to Change Lives. Now, She Brings the Opportunity to Prince George’s
The Boss: A luncheon led by Carol Thompson Cole to attract business leaders and educators to a long term commitment to improve the future labor force in Prince George's.
:KHQ &DURO 7KRPSVRQ &ROH ÀUVW PHW Venture Philanthropy Partners founder, Mario Morino, she knew he was onto something. “Mario Morino, Raul Fernandez and Senator Mark Warner signed on as co-founders to Venture Philanthropy Partners so they could give back to the community that made them successful,” she says. “They wanted to test something new: to use the best of philanthropic principles combined with venture capital 32.
principles to make a new model of philanthropic giving, a way to strengthen nonprofits.” The former district government administrator liked the idea because she knew what nonprofits were up against. At the time, Thompson Cole was working in Norfolk, VA where she was applying her skills and experience toward helping at-risk children “have a shot at a better life.” It was 2003, and she knew that she was swimming upstream. No matter what she did, no matter how many hours she put in, it wouldn’t be enough to really help the kids, to truly change the course of their lives. Furthermore, funding was never enough to solve intractable problems. “What prepared me most for VPP was five years spent consulting with a church sponsored community development corporation in Norfolk. I helped the organization use a young men’s mentoring program as the foundation for an after school and summer enrichment program. While I had executive level positions in government and business, I had no idea how difficult it is to build the infrastructure for a sustainable nonprofit serving young people. As with VPP’s nonprofit partners, I learned it is easier to get program funds than money to properly staff an organization providing academic and foundational life skills that young people need today.” Meeting Mario Morino through Charito Kruvant, a colleague who sat on the VPP board set everything else in motion. “I didn’t create this model,” Thompson Cole says. “But it’s one that I believe in and embrace to aid the lives of young people from pre-birth [through the investment of maternal care at Mary’s Center] to 24 years old.” “VPP has been a rewarding part of my career,” says the Washington, D.C. native. “It has allowed me to work toward my dream: to align the actions and resources of government, business, philanthropy and nonprofits to make all young people’s dreams come true.” Since its inception, VPP has collectively helped its nonprofit partners expand to 80 new sites and serve over 50,000 youth each year. VPP concentrates money, expertise, and personal contacts to improve the lives and boost the opportunities of children and youth of low-income families. “You have to bet big, invest large amounts of money and then stay in for the long haul,” she says. “We are being the catalyst and initial backbone. Over time leaders in government, business and the nonprofit sector have to decide that collaboration and alignment is how they want to work in communities. VPP won’t always be here. To date, our portfolio organizations have continued to grow after our investment period.” Today, through the Ready for Work Initiative, Venture Philanthropy Partners has made a commitment to three schools in Prince George’s County, Md. With a $5 million investment made by VPP, County Government and the Peterson Foundation (announced Nov. 4 2015. See “Junior Investments” http:// www.pgsuite.com/?post_id=1676 ) a multi-year partnership has
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Day One: &DURO 7KRPSVRQ &ROH LV ÀDQNHG E\ FRPPXQLW\ OHDGHUV DQG HGXFDWRUV LQFOXGLQJ &RXQW\ ([HFXWLYH 5XVKHUQ / %DNHU ,,, 3HWHUVRQ )RXQGDWLRQ V /DXUHQ 3HWHUVRQ DQG Councilmember Karen Toles (far right) outside Suitland High School moments after the announcement of the VPP effort in Prince George's.
started with Suitland, High Point and Oxon Hill High Schools. The goal is to reach $15 million through a partnership with businesses in the County and Region. See: http://www.vppartners. org/news/announcements/vpp-launches-new-initiative-readywork-champions-career-and-college-ready-graduat VPP’s goal by 2021, is to have served 2,100 kids and set up a pipeline for 900 kids annually from the three high schools who will be prepared for work and college. With the significant economic growth occurring in Prince George’s County, and more development slated for the future, it is imperative that young people are readied to become talented employees in future job markets. With that in mind, VPP hosted a luncheon in February at Bond 45 in National Harbor where they presented the Ready for Work initiative to the business community in Prince George’s County. The response from business leaders has been overwhelmingly positive and welcoming. (“The Food of Better Funding� http://www.pgsuite. com/?post_id=1801) Capital Leadership
“The key is getting corporate decision makers to think of the investment in human services organizations the way they might think of product development in their companies: it’s an investment that will lead to a real return in workforce development, community stability and economic growth over time. Our work is not easy and it takes time,� Thompson Cole says. “Our investments are 3-5 years with annual goals to be met throughout each investment. There must be measurable results.� In order to make that work, VPP needed a leader with the heart of Mother Theresa and the alpha nature of General George Patton. PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
“VPP has been not just an investor, but a partner in our work,� says Julie Farkas, Chief Strategic Growth Officer of Urban Alliance. Urban Alliance is a youth employment and mentoring organization that has served over 17,000 young adults in the Washington, D.C. metro area. “They have been a strategic convener of the youthCONNECT network’s executive leadership, program leadership and evaluation teams. Each of these groups has met on a regular basis over the course of the five-year Social Innovation Fund investment in gatherings organized and facilitated by VPP.� Farkas represented one of six nonprofit partners that VPP brought together through youthCONNECT. VPP built youthCONNECT to be a network of high-performing nonprofits working collaboratively in a single location, like a school, to improve the education, socio-emotional, career and healthy behavior outcomes of vulnerable youth, ages 14-24. VPP is expanding this model to Prince George’s County Schools through their Ready for Work Initiative. “She has challenged us to think beyond what our individual organizations can achieve on our own, to see and buy into the broader benefits and leveraging influence of collective impact. I am aware of her legacy of service and leadership. She is well known in the national capital region,� says Karene C. Brodie, executive director of the Hillside Work-Scholarship Connection (HW-SC). Hillside is a nationally recognized, evidence-informed dropout prevention program. Hillside is a part of the youthCONNECT at Suitland High School in Prince George’s County. Venture Philanthropy Partners’ top executive knows how to
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PHOTO: COURTESY VPP
PHOTO: AMIR STOUDAMIRE In Good Company: Thompson Cole with County Executive Rushern L. Baker III, county schools CEO Dr. Kevin Maxwell and a business leader in Prince George's.
build bridges and has been doing so for more than 30 years. As the first woman (and, at the time, the youngest person) to be named city administrator of the District of Columbia, Thompson Cole spent twelve years working in the city government. The New York University graduate also held a number of other positions contributing to her ability to bridge and network multiple agencies and disciplines, including: Deputy Mayor for Operations and Deputy Mayor for Economic Development, Chief of Staff, Executive Office of the Mayor and Director, Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs. “Carol brings a wealth of knowledge about our region as well as management expertise from government, private and nonprofit sectors” says Farkas. “I can’t imagine a more firm hand, strategic mind, and kind heart guiding this effort. Carol is steady, smart and strong.” The Grandfather Clause
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After 12 years, the veteran leader cites persistence as a critical character trait as a source of success at VPP. “That trait comes from my parents. They believed in practice until you mastered skills. But what has stayed with me is what my sixth grade teacher taught me: “A winner never loses and a loser never wins.” Every time I get down on myself or am problem solving I remember Ms. Kates saying a winner never loses,” Carol explains. It’s a core part of her professional DNA. “When I grew up in DC I didn’t hear young people characterized as poor or with deficits being descriptors. We were pushed to be the best we could be. Parents, teachers and family pushed and would not give up on us. I’m the oldest of six and we are all doing well. [Today,] when we get discouraged, I say we must keep going: kids don’t fail. Adults fail them!” But it was her 97-year-old grandfather who planted a seed in her mind around motivation. “While in city government I was about to deliver a speech, and I ran it past him. He said: ‘That’s not good enough. You must have some solutions before you speak because people are looking to you for the answers.’” SPRING 2016
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Ties That Bind Julie Farkas: ‘VPP is More Than An Investor, It’s A Partner’ Founded almost 20 years ago, Urban Alliance is an organization serving young people in public and charter schools in DC, Baltimore, Chicago, Northern Virginia, and now, Prince George’s County. Julie Farkas, with a dedication toward social justice issues and a long-time youth advocate, has been at Urban Alliance for nearly three years. +RZ GLG 8UEDQ $OOLDQFH ÀUVW FRPH LQWR FRQWDFW ZLWK 933"
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VPP has been not just an investor, but a partner in our work. Since youthCONNECT employs a collective action model, they have been a strategic convener of the network’s executive leadership, program leadership and evaluation teams.
VPP’s impact on the work of Urban Alliance has been immense. Their investment and strategic partnership in our work has brought our Washington, DC program to scale, allowed us to expand... and most recently bring our program Urban Alliance's Chief Strategic to Suitland High School in Prince *URZWK 2I¿FHU -XOLH )DUNDV George’s County. The VPP investment has helped us serve high school seniors with transformational internships; it has enabled us to provide alumni services to our program graduates. The investment has enabled us to build a sophisticated data collection and evaluation system. What are some of the long term goals of the partnership ZLWK 933"
Describe working with Carol Thompson Cole?
We’ve been especially grateful to have Carol as our point person and have really benefited from her experience. Carol is steady, smart, and strong. She brings a wealth of knowledge about our region as well as management expertise from government, private and nonprofit sectors. I can’t imagine a more firm hand, strategic mind and kind heart guiding this effort. PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
Describe the impact working ZLWK 933 KDV KDG RQ \RXU work? Your young clients?
The long-term goal of our youthCONNECT partnership with VPP was organization scale and sustainability. Thanks to the VPP investment, Urban Alliance has recently received its first three investments from national funders, AT&T, USA Funds and Citi Foundation as well as a multi-year investment from the Department of Education.
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Natural High By D.A. Phillips
It was, pardon the pun, the wild, wild west. In 1965, six
days of rioting in Watts, an impoverished African American Los Angeles neighborhood, sparked by strained tensions between the citizens in the community and police, led to more than $40 million in property damage. Long-simmering anger between black residents and an abusive, mostly white police force led to similar unrest in Detroit in 1967. When Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in April 1968, a week of civil unrest swept across the country--with the biggest riots taking place in Chicago, Baltimore and Washington, D.C. It was into this climate that Melvin High, now sheriff in Prince George’s County, Md., began his career in law enforcement. From 1969 until 1993, High was a member of Washington, D.C.’s Metropolitan Police Department. “We kept each other’s counsel,” High says of being a young African American officer at that time. He explains that he and other black officers stood between the frustrations in the community and racial challenges within the department.
a different phase. I knew I could make a difference in my community and country to change the direction of law enforcement.” But the drive to educate, develop new direction stayed with him – making the veteran far more than a beat cop building toward a pension. During his time in D.C. law enforcement, High was responsible for crime prevention; criminal investigations; and the safe management of annual parades, festivals, demonstrations and protests in the nation’s capital. He implemented the city’s first community policing initiative. High also introduced crime prevention strategies such as CRO (Community Resource Officers), SRO (School Resource Officers), Police Cadets, mobile office programs, and the expansion of tactical crime prevention efforts. He received a mayoral citation for commanding the successful investigation and apprehension of a serial killer known as the “shotgun bandit,” who terrorized the District for three months in 1993. High took his crime-fighting philosophy to Norfolk, Virginia, where he was chief of police for 10 years and helped to lead crime reduction in each year of his administration (except 1995).
A Question Of Balance
Overall, High’s approach to policing and life are about balance. “My family helped me begin on the road to self-discipline,” he says. “The military helped me to perfect it. I share with them my view of how you must be a self-disciplined person – especially if you have had pain in your life you can’t let it drive you to the wrong place.” Soft spoken and even keeled, High always saw the job through more analytical lens. “You have to get beyond the numbers. Every crime that I see lets me know there is a victim in that situation. You must burrow down to the humanity of issues, and that drives your passion for the work that you do,” he says. He tends to partake in community events and participates in social support networks. “We also have to show people that people don’t have to be fearful of us,” he explains. A Different Kind of Policing
For Melvin High, it has always been about service but it wasn’t always police work. He wanted to be a teacher, he says. “For a while I did have an opportunity to be teacher. But I went into the military. I went to war and then I saw 36.
A Leader Among Law Enforcement
When High first joined the D.C. police force, there weren’t a lot of faces that looked like his, he says. Though few in number, the black officers helped each other. That support helped his officers, both black and white. Leonard Cooke, a Washington, D.C., police officer in the ’70s, says he owes part of his success to High. “My first interaction with him was when he was a captain in the third district, one of the first African American captains in the third district. That was a breath of fresh air cause he took an interest in a lot of the officers and I was one of them,” Cooke says. “He really stood out. He was steady, knowledgeable. He wasn’t faking in the way that he carried himself. When you asked him a question, he would give you thorough and thoughtful deliberate answers. He started to mentor a number of people that stood out that he could teach. He would stress getting education and studying for promotions within the police department.” Kim C. Dine, who met High when he joined the third district right out of Sub Zero Hero: The Sheriff at a polar bear plunge. SPRING 2016
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PHOTOS COURTESY OFFICE OF THE SHERRIFF'S DEPT.
Veteran Sheriff Melvin High Opens Doors and Approaches in Police Work
Law and Re-Order: Sheriff Melvin High continues to reassess and evaluate better ways of creating better relations between the department and the community.
training school, counts the sheriff as instrumental in his now 40-year policing career, too. “Right from the start he was a mentor and role model due to his knowledge, comportment, dedication and commitment,” says Dine, who recently retired as chief of the U.S. Capitol Police. “I was fortunate to have him as one of my many role models who enabled me as well to rise up through the ranks." The Challenges of The Present Shape Vision for The Future
The recent wave of police violence around the country isn’t off putting to the veteran professional. “Police violence is something that we have seen before,” he says. “In the ’60s and late ’70s, it was actions that were handed down in terms of what we do in our communities. Then, it was from the top down. Now, it’s more PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
from the bottom, up. We are in a better place than we were in the ’60s and ’70s.” “While we are having some turbulence in policing around the country in this moment, I don’t want our community to lose sight of how critical policing is. We have to overcome this gulf between police and citizens.” To that end, the sheriff wants to introduce more children to 21st century law enforcement. “I knew I could make a difference in my community and country by helping to change the direction of law enforcement when I came onto the force. I believe that I can fix things,” he says. “I teach that to the kids at schools, too. I want to expand our middle school program with our young people. I want to make sure that they see law enforcement as a great career option.”
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Smart Cop New Police Chief Stawinski Amplifies Use Of Data Council unanimously confirmed Stawinski as chief of the Prince Newly appointed Prince George's County Police Chief George’s County Police Department (PGPD). He was previousHenry P. “Hank” Stawinski III brings a new type of swag to ly deputy chief of police, and has spent his entire 26-year career police work. with the county’s police department. He’s a data geek – and proud of it. Since July 2013, Stawinski has been responsible for the “One of the things that I have endeavored to do is to work Bureau of Patrol, which has helped reduce crime by more than with good, actionable information,” he says. “We live in an era 40 percent and violent crime by more than 30 percent. of big data. But just having the info isn’t useful; it’s what you can He has also used innovations in community policing, commulearn and how you can apply it to be successful.” nications and the use of data to curb negative crime trends. The The veteran crime fighter is a firm believer in bold, sweep- data bit is one of Stawinski’s passions. ing strategies and 21st century technology because they work. To that end, the chief oversees the daily crime report, the Violent crime in the county is down over 30 percent. twice-daily analysis message and the strategic calendar. “We “We cut [crime instances] in half in five years," he reports. use them to manage the department in real time and determine “At the end of 2010, we had 36,452 instances of crime. At the how resources will be used throughout the day and sometimes end of last year, 20,223,” Stawinski says. “It speaks to the use multiple times per day,” he says. of data if you use it correctly. We are pleased with the progress Throughout County Executive Rushern Baker’s term, the we made. But we have more work to do.” police department has used this data-specific approach to reduce He will be the first to tell you that this positive development the incidents of crime. came through decisive and exacting strategies – and that includes “We have been doing tremendously well in our strategies,” the Transforming Neighborhoods Initiative (TNI). TNI is an he says. on-the-ground based, community centered effort that enjoins Over the years to come, the lifelong county resident has specific multiple civic agencies to work in close knit efforts in targeted plans for the department. He wants to work with leadership to high-risk areas within the county. There are six TNI jurisdictions and they meet regularly to attack crime and quality of life add 300 more officers to the force and says in the long run it will save money because it moves PGPD away from overtime costs. issues rather than wait for them to manifest. “We are limited to when we can deploy the overtime. If we “TNI has been a great extension outgrowth of our 2011 grow the department so that we actually have the people on summer crime strategy,” he explains. “It allows us to impact the areas that are most challenging. If we could address the people hand, as opposed to creating them, we will be able to apply these who become most afflicted in the locations of those populations, strategies as routine business.” He says shoring up pension for officers is also positive toward we could be more effective.” recruitment. The other half is about strategy based on data, and It has been such an effective model, it has begun to pick up national attention and the focus of social analysts in the halls of then testing that strategy. "We reevaluate that after we deploy. We audit the post, talk to the officers and make sure that the academia, including Harvard and Columbia. strategy is drawing the correct But the new age officer conclusions from the data.” explains that the process Although the work is serimust go further to truly be ous business, Stawinski takes effective – and it does. it deeper to heart because the “We can make an arrest, they go to jail and then they county is his home. may re-offend,” Stawinski “I grew up here and this shares. “So, we also focus is my watch,” he explains. on providing opportunities “It’s an honor to be entrusted on reentry so that they have with this responsibility and I options.” intend to use every tool I have Earlier this year, the to its fullest potential for the Masters of the Watch: The PGPD reorganizes and reapplies service directly based on Prince George’s County hourly and daily updated data. The approach has been very effective in reducing crime. best results possible.” 38.
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PHOTOS ARE BY MAURICE FITZGERALD
PHOTO: MAURICE FITZGERALD
By Raoul Dennis // Photography By Maurice Fitzgerald
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PHOTOS COURTESY SYDNEY HARRISON Change The World: Sydney Harrison is known as a game-changing young leader in Maryland. He's also commited to a global effort, including work with children in South Africa.
Chosen Son Clerk of the Circuit Court Sydney Harrison Most kids up for adoption don’t grow up and then take for adoption. It was an even greater challenge because biracial children were tougher to place. charge of the office that provided them a home. “That’s how I remember him,” says Sue “Pearl” Binder, who, at That’s exactly what Circuit Clerk Sydney Harrison did. After his foster parents raised him, Harrison came back to the the time was the guardianship for the County’s adoptions at the office that processes nearly 300,000 cases per year and changed Department and responsible for helping the child to find a home. the system to improve its customer service and response time. “He was quiet and real small for his age.” Today, that little boy has grown to become her boss. But back then, he was a lively but That’s just the start of what he’s about. "He will be the catalyst for change," says his friend and former uncertain child who needed a chance. “I’ve been here for 38 years and he is the best clerk that I ever worked campaign manager Eric Bowman. He sees with. I’m proud that I had something to Harrison as one of those people always do with placing him in a home with all willing to try a new way to achieve a goal. that love that made him who he is today.” "We need young, energetic leaders who That home was the residence of John are willing to step outside the box: that's and Iona Harrison. The Harrisons already Sydney." had three children of their own, but John, Harrison’s life started off a little bumpy. having been adopted himself, wanted to His birth mother was homeless and raped reach out and give back. while hitchhiking. Adoptions affect everyone involved “I’m a product of that,” Harrison says. including those who process paperwork. “She was a young child and did not know “I feel blessed to be part of it,” Binder where to get help and there wasn’t as much says. “Even though I took care of the available to get help for her anyway.” paperwork, I feel like he is a member of It wasn’t long before the young mother Harrison: Always looking to do things better than before. the family. When he came to clerk here, found herself placing her newborn son up 40.
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it didn’t hit me ‘til later that I was the one who processed the paperwork back then. We both got very emotional.” When the Harrisons met Sydney, they wouldn’t let go. “When he came into our family, it worked. It was right,” John says. “There was another family that [tried] to adopt him but he was part of [our] family by then. We wouldn’t let that happen. We fought for him.” The Child That Knew It All
always come together to try to find the answers.” This is the energy that drew friend and colleague Eric Bowman to Harrison’s side when radio personality Sheila Stewart introduced the two of them in 2008. “When he asked me to come on board to help him with his campaign it really was a question he didn’t have to ask,” Bowman says. “Because of the individual he is, it was in my heart because I know where his heart is that I had to do all I can to help him achieve his goals.”
It wasn’t that he was really that different from most children but Harrison was on a mission. For All The Boys And Girls “Sydney was always open to try and push the limits,” says John The decision to run for Clerk of the Court came easily for the Harrison. “He always had a ‘why not’ attitude whenever he was young man who wants to fix things for people who are relatively told something.” But it wasn’t just defiance. “He would look for powerless. a way to get to yes. He wanted a reason and a solution to a thing.” “This courthouse gave me a family,” Harrison says quietly. John and Iona both grew up attending Prince George’s County “That makes it real for me. If there were hiccups I would not have schools. They met at Crossland High School, fell in love and the family that I have today.” married. They both worked with the Prince George’s Association But there were challenges once the new leader took the job: of Realtors. There wasn’t a lot anyone could tell them about life The Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court was 3800 cases in Prince George’s County. But, that didn’t stop Sydney from behind in its processing of Paternity and Child Support cases. trying. The problem came from not having enough staff to respond to “He would always want to push it a different way,” John says. inquiries. Under Harrison’s tenure, he has filled 38 of 40 job “That can be a tough decision when your dad is 6’2” and 240 vacancies and received a #1 rating in the county for collecting pounds. It didn’t always work out for him. But it turned out OK 97% of active child support orders. Another factor was in the in the long run. He’s a special guy and he’s going to be great for outdated approaches and technology. The Office has introduced Prince George’s.” a new Facebook page to keep the community informed, instituted It’s a character trait that stayed with him. In the face of a num- tours of the Clerk’s Office with community organizations and ber of social ills that came across his path, the young professional established a training coordinator position to help improve the always sought solutions to problems around him and still does. Department’s customer service. As early as his teen years, he has always given of himself, his time, “One of my primary focuses is customer service and commuand his talents to make his community better. He’s launched nications. We are to work together and to serve the public. I holiday programs such as toy drives (partnered with Saving Our brought into the Clerks’ Office all sorts of training and customer Children and Butterflies Inc.), international cultural exchanges, service programs,” he says. and community projects. He was the head Coach for the South “I have worked under seven clerks but now we get a lot more Bowie Sharks Soccer Team (1999-2007) where he led them to done and we are more motivated,” Binder says. “Morale is higher. two county championships, coached the Marlboro Mustangs He is an unbelievable young man and I Soccer team in 2015, and is a member think I had a little bit to do with that.” of the Democratic Central Committee, Is it a character thing or a full circle representing the 27th Legislative District. destiny that brings someone like Harrison Harrison believes there is a ‘fix’ to to this point? everything. One only needs to focus on “We are blessed to have him in this the problem. position,” Bowman says. “He will be “It’s a blessing to [be] a part of a blessthe [kind of] catalyst that will help push ing,” Harrison says of his never-wavering Prince George’s County forward.” community support work. “You just need Maybe it’s a little of both: character and to look at things from the other person’s destiny. eyes and shoes sometimes. I’m very hum“I came from brokenness and this combled to be put in a position by the people munity has made me whole. I have a lot to of Prince George’s to support our youth. offer and I will not stop ‘til that offering We may not have all the answers but we Let's Stay Together: Harrison's parents John and Iona. has been used up,” says Harrison. PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
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Dirty Little Sec
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rets at the Salon Women Have Been Sharing Their Stories for Years. Now They're In A Book. When women get together, there's no telling what will go down. Especially at the salon. Just ask Jade Badd and her co-author Monica Renee Love. Mixing sisterhood with pampering can make for a very relaxed atmosphere where almost anything gets said, and after 15 years in the salon business, Badd has heard things that can raise eyebrows. Nearly three years ago, Badd, a stylist at Sweet Styles beauty salon in Waldorf, Md. and her bestie of 12 years, Renee Love, embarked on a mission to place all those hot and steamy stories they've heard into a book. One afternoon, the dish at the shop got too hot to ignore. “One of my clients who had her own salon learned that her husband was sleeping with his ex and that he was on Craig’s list as a bi-sexual. In comes a new client to her shop–a man dressed as a woman--who saw a picture of her husband up on the wall. He saw it and says to her: ‘we’re friends, too,’ and implied that they were intimate. Was this meeting a coincidence?” That was it. The two decided that they had to write a book. Scandalous love affairs, swingers, cheaters, "dirty" little secrets that were entrusted to their hair stylist while under her care can be found on the pages of Badd and Love's book, Gurl Talk at the Shop: Dirty Little Secrets - a collection of short, erotic tales. But trust is important in therapy. The book, while based on stories they've heard at the salon, is a work of fiction, so the salon clients need not worry about personal exposure. Mother, wife, author, stylist and licensed cosmetologist, Jade Badd is considered by her salon clients as a part-time therapist, providing the advice on life issues that her clients seek while sitting in her chair, getting PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
their hair done. Being a stylist pays the bills, says Jade, but her passion is writing. Renee Love holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from Morgan State University and a Masters in Human Resources from Bowie State University. She is married, has two children and lives in Prince George's County, Md. "We started one Sunday after dinner. It took two years to get it done." With work and family responsibilities, how were the duo able to complete their mission? "We push each other," says Jade, 'Did you get this done?' “We have the same vision and drive. We are like the dynamic duo." What makes their book different from other erotica books on the market is its teachable moments. Theirs "is an erotic book that they can learn from and they can be entertained. They can learn some things to avoid when they are in a relationship." They infuse psychology into it. Renee invokes Zane, "She was one of the pioneers. She opened the door. She said it was OK to write about this." As self-publishers with their own publishing company, Gurl Talk Publications, the two authors are hoping to grow their company by adding other authors to their roster. "Our daughters have their own books." Renee's 11-year old daughter wrote a book about natural hair, Curly Gurls. Jade's two daughters, ages 9 and 15, penned Sister My Friend, about siblings and growing up together as friends and relatives. Both books are for children. In the meantime, the dynamic duo are busy getting new material for their next book. If you happen to get your hair done at Sweet Styles, you may want to consider what you share, or perhaps pay a good ear. What's said at the salon doesn't necessarily stay at the salon.
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Landing Zone: MARYLAND Voices Of Veterans & Maryland Vietnam War Stories By Robert R. Bernstein 'XULQJ WKH 9LHWQDP :DU PRUH WKDQ Americans
lost their lives in combat. Of that number, 1017 were Marylanders. In an effort to understand the sacrifices and to document this seminal event in American History, Maryland Public television is presenting “Maryland Vietnam War Stories�, a three-part documentary during the week leading up to Memorial Day 2016 to be followed up by “LZ MARYLAND� a two-day event in Mid-June at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium, MD. To bring this story closer to the readers of The Suite, two interviews were conducted with veterans who are featured in the documentary and will be attending the "LZ MARYLAND" event. These are their stories. Nate Howard
Nate Howard grew up in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. His father had served in the US Navy during World War II and so when Mr. Howard graduated high school he joined the Navy in 1956 with the intention of specializing in the medical field. Upon completion of basic naval training at Great Lakes Naval Station in Illinois, he went on to train as a Medical Corpsman. He served for three years at the Philadelphia Naval Hospital and then served at the Naval Air Station in Corpus Christi, Texas. Suffering from what Nate Howard described as “burnout� from his work as a corpsman, he left the navy with the goal of going back to school but within three months he had re-enlisted in the Navy. Upon his return, Howard was assigned as a corpsman to a naval medical company serving the US Marine Corps at Camp Lejuene, North Carolina. This led to his service for the subsequent three years aboard amphibious ships in the Mediterranean Sea. While serving with the Marines at Camp Lejuene, his unit was sent in 1965 to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic to assist in maintaining order there after a disputed election led to violence. While in the area his unit suffered 11 casualties including the loss of a fellow corpsman. When his time for rotation arrived, Petty Officer Howard did not want to return to a naval hospital billet and as a result he applied and was accepted to Medical Deep Sea Diving Technology training at the Navy Yard in Washington, DC. When that course of study was completed, he was first assigned as a medical diving technician on a Submarine tender and in 1967 he was assigned as a medical diving petty officer to Underwater Demolition Team (UDT) 11 in Danang, Vietnam where he served from February through December of that year. 44.
When he returned from Vietnam, he was assigned to Coronado, California where the UDT units on the West Coast were based. These UDT units were the precursors to today’s Navy Seal units. His final assignment was as the first African – American instructor at the diving school in Norfolk, Virginia. He served there until 1975 as a Chief Petty Officer the highest level of enlisted service in the Navy. As a result of his previous diving experiences he had contracted a medical ailment that precluded further diving assignments and he retired from the US Navy. Michael Herndon
Michael Herndon grew up in North Carolina but in 1961 his family moved to Lexington, Park, MD. In 1962, he entered college at Morgan State University to study biology. While at Morgan State he joined the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) and became a member of the prestigious “Pershing Rifles�, a national fraternal organization of ROTC cadets. In addition, Mr. Herndon also served as the highest ranking Cadet Colonel and as the school’s ROTC Brigade Commander. Michael Herndon knew that he wanted to join the US Army and he was thinking of a scientific field as the US Space program was ramping up. During his time at Morgan State he also studied flight training so that when he graduated from the university in 1966 with distinguished military honors he also had earned his private pilot’s license. As a result, the US Army commissioned him as a regular Second Lieutenant and not as a Reserve Officer. When he entered active duty he was assigned to the Medical Service Corps, the component of the Army that provides support to the medical providers and this includes pharmacists, social workers and in the case of Lieutenant Herndon, medical evacuation or medevac helicopter pilots. The medavac units have some of the most dangerous billets in a war zone as they evacuate wounded soldiers from a battlefield. These personnel fly medical support helicopters which are unarmed and have prominent red crosses painted on their fuselages. While according to the “rules of war� these copters are not to be targeted, more often than not they are attacked with a vengeance by the enemy. In Vietnam, the medavac units suffered three times the losses of the other aviation units and they often were victims of small arms fire. From his initial training at Fort Walters, Texas, Lieutenant Herndon proceeded to aviation training at Fort Rucker, Alabama. He distinctly remembers that helicopter training was far more difficult than fixed wing training and that African – American candidates “washed out� at a higher rate than other candidates. In Michael Herndon’s mind the Vietnam War provided
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opportunity despite its lethality. As he stated, “I was worthy of progressing.” His first Vietnam assignment was with the 254th Helicopter Ambulance Detachment based at Nha Trang, Vietnam. While serving with this unit he was involved in supporting the American units involved in the 1968 Tet Offensive. His second tour saw him assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division medavac company. As the war progressed, Herndon was sent to Fort Sam Houston, Texas to serve with the 507th Air Ambulance Company, a unit that was tasked with training medavac pilots. Years after his career as a military pilot had ended Herndon PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
was flying commercially and he was recognized by a fellow passenger as the pilot that evacuated him years before when he was wounded on the battlefield in Vietnam. Michael Hendon’s respect for the infantry soldier is strong. As he says: “ I have the greatest respect for those who fought the ground war.” In his mind, the Vietnam grunts saw the true adversity of war. Faith is a constant for Mr. Herndon. It was a constant companion in the skies over Vietnam. The survivor of any war had to have strong faith in the Lord. For Michael Herndon, the very reason he his able to tell his story is because his faith was rewarded with mercy as well as faith in return.
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from page 11 Previous delegations (this was the 13th trip) have furthered the discussion. Their support helps implement ideas and nurtures businesses in the community. “There is a lesson in group economics: supporting your local business community—that is an essential piece missing in the U.S. Those of us on the trip are bringing that lesson back.” The annual occasion has developed an ongoing network. “There have been 12 trips prior to mine,” the councilman says. “They all [remain] in touch with each other. Mutual support,
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LAMBERT from Page 19 He goes on to say it means that he now owes an even greater level of dedication because of the people who had faith in him to get this spot. “[You recognize that you have] the respect of others that you didn’t realize you had before [but now] there’s a strong responsibility there that you’ve been honored to gain and now expected to uphold.”
implementing ideas in the U.S., supporting and nurturing business in the community – there is a lesson in group economics.” Franklin sees opportunity in potential partnerships. “There’s great value in partnering with many of those organizations to connect with them locally. That will be happening over the next few years. There’s an economic benefit even though it wasn’t an economic mission.” –Kendra Lee and Raoul Dennis
Ray and Angela Lambert are a family of five with Ray’s two older sons, Raymond, studying computer science at Tulane University and Jonathan, studying business administration at LSU. The youngest son, Andrew, 10, is enrolled in a special talented and gifted program for advanced students. “I can do all that I do because of the foundation and their
support at home,” says the father of three. “I give him time to do what he wants to do,” Angela says. “I do respect what he does. I give him his space and I understand what he needs to do in the community in order to achieve his goals. He divides his time well in all three areas.” She really does get it. Angela also works in banking and the pair met when they each served at a New Orleans banking institution. The pair celebrated their 13th wedding anniversary in January. Angela knows her husband’s vision goes well beyond keeping typical banker’s hours. “He works very long hours but he is very relaxed and very understanding,” she says. “I know what he’s trying to do with his time. I hope everyone sees the passion in all that he does.” –Additional Reporting By Raoul Dennis
from Page 30 information moving forward. In that on-demand environment, there’s so much choice out there. Students vote with their feet. We need to make sure students—and in some cases their parents—realize the value of something. Whether it’s an education or a program they’re interested in. We have to be tech savvy in a safe and secure way. We need to make sure students understand the difference between the language of culture and the language of commerce. Because their lives are so blurred between what they do when they’re home and what they do in school or work, there’s a need to make sure they understand the difference between the languages—up to and including work ethic: the stick to it-tiveness, the grit necessary to succeed, the ambition. I’m not saying they don’t want to work. But if you’re used to things being provided when you want them, you have to learn to have a mindset that the rest of the world may not have come up to yet. They have to be
mindful of the way things are currently done. Gen Z are more likely to be into Snapchat; that’s true. But I think only a part of it is about security, though. And it’s a perceived security, because even Snapchat is not as secure as they think. (We are always encouraging everyone at all ages about the importance of being mindful—don’t assume anything you post is secure.) It’s also about wanting ownership of something they think of as theirs. Even Instagram is starting to be populated by older people. With Snapchat and things like that, they have something that not everybody is using at every stage of the game. It’s also about anonymity. They have a desire, from time to time, to have this. It’s weird—wanting to be connected to others, but not wanting them to know who they are. You see it in online gaming: They’ll play together, even sometimes with complete strangers, but not want them to know who they are.”
Banking On Family
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Take Your Business To New Heights
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Your Partner in the Fight Against Breast Cancer Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer among women. But thanks to advances in treatment, millions of breast cancer survivors are able to lead active and fulďŹ lling lives. Now, high quality, comprehensive breast care is available at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center. Patients can expect a personalized, multidisciplinary approach to treatment that will include a breast surgeon, nurse practitioner, nurse navigator, social worker, and breast radiologist. Genetic counseling is also available. For more information about the MedStar Breast Health Program or to schedule an appointment, please visit MedStarHealth.org/Breast or call 301-877-5607.
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Katerina Tsiapali, MD, FACS Breast Surgeon Director, MedStar Breast Health Program MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center
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