Suite Prince George’s
A New View Of Prince George’s County, Md.
www.pgsuite.com
By Marc Hopkins First Baptist Church of Glenarden Turns 100, FBI HQ Update, Denzel Washington’s Fences, Deni Taveras, The Greater Prince George’s Business Roundtable , La Clinica in Hyattsville, The Last Circus, The Baltimore’s 10th Gala, Annapolis Day for Students FALL/WINTER 2016-2017 $4.95
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PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
FALL/WINTER 2016-2017
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Suite Prince George’s
A Great View Of Prince George’s County, Maryland
FALL/WINTER 2016-2017 Raoul Dennis Publisher/Editor-In-Chief Maria Lopez-Bernstein Assoc. Publisher D. A. Phillips Assoc. Publisher
Raoul Dennis, Maria Lopez-Bernstein 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: Credit: WBR Press
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 © 2015 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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OutlookOutlookOutlook The Game Is Afoot at the MGM National Harbor Opening Day ceremony were clear: “We are in the holy sh*t business.” If there were any ambiguity about what MGMNH would be or what it would bring to Maryland, it was put to complete rest December 8. Of the capacity crowd that attended, few could contest the wonder and splendor of the county’s newest corporate resident. The $1.4 billion facility lives up to the hype: 4,000 new employees – half of them Prince Georgians -- and nearly $42 million in earnings in the first month of operation. For those enjoying a weekend at the location, MGMNH is a self-contained, super city providing every accommodation known to man’s decadence. The weeks and months ahead will reveal more of the story of the impact MGMNH will have on life for residents and supposedly local businesses but there is no mistaking the spotlight that the destination giant will bring to the area. Consumers, tourists and business leaders who never heard of Prince George’s will have the county and the DMV on their minds as a potential destination. Cher’s residency at MGMNH here is a prime example—and the reason she adorns our cover. The international superstar is the first to be in long term performance rotation at the resort. Like Sarah Jessica Parker who has set up shop, Cher is making an investment. Both are betting that the MGM brand is strong enough to attract high value people to direct some of their disposable income this way. Local and state leaders have pressed forward in supporting MGM’s move here since Question 7 appeared on the ballot in 2012. Local residents and businesses remain hopeful that MGMNH is a good bet. 7KH ZRUGV ÁDVKLQJ RQ WKH SURPRWLRQDO YLGHR
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Certainly, nearly $42 million in earnings in the first month is $42 million in the right direction. And while MGMNH may be the talk of the town, it was never the only deal in the works. Hope and efforts remain that the dice are rolling towards the selection of either Landover or Greenbelt for the new FBI headquarters. In this edition, we recognize some of the latest developments. County, state and federal elected officials announce their continued efforts to bring the FBI here at a recent meeting of the Greater Prince George’s Business Roundtable. Watch this space and www.pgsuite.com for updates. As President Trump settles in office, we remember the 2016 Election Night Watch Party hosted by G.S. Proctor & Associates. The tone of that night will be remembered for years to come. Always on the forefront of keeping communities healthy, Doctors Community Hospital’s La Clinica del H Pueblo P recently opened as a new n preventative and specialty care c location in Hyattsville. It I will provide care to underserved residents using a holiss tic t approach. More than grand openings that t make Prince George’s a hot h ticket. It’s the people, too. Councilmember Deni Taveras’ C journey to office was not j paved p with a red carpet. She sits s with Associate Publisher Maria M Lopez-Bernstein and shares s the details of her personal struggle to success. s Check out Robert & Marge C Baltimore along with the B 100 1 year benchmark at First Baptist B Church of Glenarden. This year will be booming with w visitors, stars, new neighbors b and growth for Prince George’s. G The game is afoot, e enjoy the thrill. God Bless! –Raoul Dennis
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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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Rated As One Of The Top Ten Lobbying Firms In Maryland –Maryland Ethics Commission
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Table Of FALL/WINTER 2016-2017 A Great View Of Prince George’s County, Md.
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5. Outlook: MGM National Habor Launches A New Day for Prince George’s 10. Stuff: Shopper’s Delight - New H&M, African American Art At MGM 14. Around: The Last Circus, Rockin’ the Green, Before the Spirits
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Are Swept Away
17. Recognition: BSU Pres. Mickey Burnim and Fire Chief Marc Bashoor Retiring 18. Health: New Doctors Community Hospital Health Facility in Hyattsville
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ntents Profiles & Features
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22. Events: Watch Party Surprise 23. Events: 10th Annual Black Tie Holiday Gala 24. 3URÀOH The Sky’s No Limit for Councilmember Deni Taveras 29. First Baptist Church of Glenarden Turns 100 30. Cover: Welcoming MGM: A Look At The Glam Of
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The New Destination Venue
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The Seventh Wave: Sting and other international stars will put Prince George’s County onto a global stage.
PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE PHOTO: FRANK OCKENFELS
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Come Together Community Summit Seeks Solutions to Student Abuse Prince George’s County public schools held a community education summit at Ernest Everett Just Middle School in Bowie Nov. 5 to address safety and accountability following months of scandals of student abuse. “It is critical we discuss the issues openly and honestly,” said Kevin Maxwell, CEO of Prince George’s County Public Schools system. Leadership is tackling the problems, and the summit gave parents, school staff and community members a voice in helping to come up with solutions.
Award-Winning Vision County Wins Prestigious National Development Finance Project Award The Council of Development Finance Agencies awarded Prince George’s County with the 2016 Excellence in Development Finance Project Award for a $28 million bond transaction using a unique form of tax increment financing to raise funds to buy land, build infrastructure and encourage development in what project officials describe as a “blighted” area of the county, the 1,800-acre Suitland-Naylor Road Development District. Unlike most bonds, this one will not rely on the growth of tax revenues from specific new developments. This one builds on a vision that will stimulate developers’ interest in the area, attracting investment and expanding the district’s commercial tax base. That’s thinking out of the box.
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Then & Wow 2nd Star Productions Wins! Local Theatrical Company Awarded for Excellence 2nd Star Productions was awarded the 20152016 Ruby Griffith top Award for All-Around Production Excellence for their musical, Guys and Dolls. The Ruby Griffith Awards were established in 1969 by the British Embassy Players for outstanding achievement in theatrical productions in the Washington, DC metro area. 2nd Star Productions was founded in 1996 and presents two musicals and one comedy each season at Bowie Playhouse in Bowie, Md. 10.
Black Art Gets Into The Game African American Artists Shine at MGM National Harbor The Heritage Collection at MGM National Harbor celebrates the amazing works of prominent African-American artists in the community. The Prince George’s Arts & Humanities Council serves as the collaborating partner for the MGM Heritage Collection, managing the local arts program and assisting with public relations activations. • Martha Jackson Jarvis – “Untitled” – Virginia native Martha Jackson Jarvis is an artist whose works have been celebrated around the world. She has had a studio in Prince George’s County for more than 20 years, producing large-scale public projects of concrete and glass, natural materials chosen for their longevity. The four untitled murals capture the reflections of the area’s historical architecture in the Potomac River, ever-changing as the light catches the murals at different points in the casino. • Ron Beverly – “Cherry Blossom Photography” – Prince George’s County native and artist Ron Beverly serves as assistant professor and photography program coordinator at Howard University. The photography displayed throughout the resort depicts an iconic moment in Washington, D.C. culture: the cherry blossom bloom. Beverly took these photographs during the festival of 2015, and the images are featured throughout the resort. • Alma Woodsey Thomas – “Study for ‘Azaleas Sway in the Breeze’” and “Study for ‘Earth Sermon’” – Acclaimed abstractionist Alma Woodsey Thomas was engrained in the fabric of Washington, D.C. culture. In looking to fellow Washington, D.C.-based artists, Thomas developed her signature style, characterized by irregular, expressive dabs of paint on canvas. Thomas, the first graduate of Howard University’s fine arts program, is known nationally for her 1972 solo show at the Whitney Museum of American Art, the museum’s first exhibition dedicated to an African-American woman. PHOTO CREDIT: Jarvis - Jenne Glover; Beverly - Howard University; Ida Jervis, photographer. Alma Thomas papers, Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution
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Shopper’s Delight
Full Alarm Breaking Ground on New Oxon Hill Fire/EMS Station Oxon Hill, Md. residents will be getting another Fire/EMS station. A groundbreaking ceremony took place Nov. 7 for the new Oxon Hill Community Fire/EMS Station No. 851. The new station will be located on Clipper Way, near the entrance to Oxon Hill High School and the new MGM National Harbor Resort and Casino and is scheduled to be completed by December 2017. The new station will have a cadet program for Oxon Hill High School students interested in becoming firefighters. Additionally, a fire boat will be docked at National Harbor as of Spring 2017. In the interim, a temporary fire station based at MGM National Harbor will be staffed with 12-14 firefighters and paramedics paid for by MGM.
H&M Opens in Hyattsville H&M, one of the world’s largest fashion retailers famous for offering fashion-forward apparel at affordable prices in a sustainable way opened a new location at The Mall at Prince Georges in Hyattsville, Md. Shoppers will enjoy a one-stop shopping destination for quality clothing for the entire family. Pleased with the opening of H&M’s 15th store in Maryland, U.S. President of H&M Daniel Kulle said, “This state is a growing market and we are excited to create more job opportunities with our expansion there.”
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Opening A Legacy Young Art Be Free 2017 PGCPS Youth Art Month Visual Extravaganza, Feb 22 - March 6th Some of Prince George’s County’s most promising emerging artists are still in school. Their works will be on display for public viewing February 22 through March 6. This amazing annual exhibit is sponsored by the Prince George’s Arts and Humanities Council (PGAHC) in partnership with Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) and The Mall at Prince Georges. The exhibit featuring hundreds of visual artworks created by students all over the county grades K-12 will be held at The Mall at Prince Georges located at 3500 East West Highway, Hyattsville, MD.
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The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park and Visitor Center Opens In March The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park and Visitor Center is set to open March 2017 in Church Creek, Md. The 17-acre park, commemorating the life and contributions of the abolitionist, includes a 16,000 square feet LEED Silver rated Visitor Center/Exhibit Hall and Administrative Building, a Legacy Garden providing an open quiet space for reflection, and Picnic Pavilion with a stone fireplace. Visit: http://dnr2.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/eastern/tubman.aspx
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A Family Tradition of Service to Country Suitland, Md. Native On Board Destroyer at Pearl Harbor-Hickam Seaman Marcus Cunningham, a 2010 Potomac High School graduate and Suitland, Md. native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the guided-missile destroyer, USS ChungHoon. According to Navy officials, destroyers are tactical multi-mission surface combatants capable of conducting anti-air, anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare. A yeoman operating out of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Cunningham is responsible for the administration and personnel management of all 337 people aboard. “I get to work with the whole ship,” says Cunningham, whose mother served in the Navy and father, in the Army. “I love the customer service part of the job. We make sure sailors are able to get the right training to advance their careers.”
S Stuff
‘Fences’, ‘Casablanca’: Two Classics Still Great
As Denzel Renews Wilson’s Fences, Casablanca Turns Seventy-Five You must remember this…As Time Goes By: 75 years to be exact but who’s counting? One of the movie industry’s biggest blockbusters--Casablanca--is celebrating its 75th year. And just as great work only gets greater with time, Denzel Washington’s vision to take August Wilson’s Fences to the screen came to life in December 2016. Washington reintroduces his talent repertoire as director and star of the theatrical classic. The story which centers around a tough-minded father leading a household that hungers to push ahead of his anchored and often unilateral methods. This story, set in the 1950s and originally performed on Broadway in the 1980s, still holds incredible lessons and messages to teach about manhood, family, values and loyalty. Washington’s and Viola Davis’ performances are stellar. With a powerhouse cast including Humphrey Bogart, Claude Rains, Ingrid Bergman, Conrad Veidt, Sydney Greenstreet, and Peter Lorre, Hollywood’s Casablanca still reigns as one of the best movies of its day. Who can forget one of the most famous lines of the movie, “Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world; she walks into mine.” And who did not shed a tear when Bogart was saying goodbye to Bergman as she boarded the play for safety with her husband, “Here’s lookin’ at you kid.” Pass the Kleenex. Fences is still in theaters. If you have never seen Casablanca; rent it, if you have seen it; see it again for old times’ sake. It is one of those that you never forget.
Neextt & BeYond
Aw, Ma Do I Have To? Camp Fair at Bowie Community Center Preps For Summer Do you know what your kids are doing this summer? Summer may seem like a ways from now, but registration for children’s summer camps will be in full gear soon. Attend a camp fair at Bowie Community Center, 3209 Stonybrook Drive, Bowie, Md. on March 25, 10am-2pm to get more information on summer camps for kids. 12.
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Centennial GS Cookies New S’mores Flavors Celebrate 100 Years of Girl Scout Cookies Move over Tagalongs... the Girl Scouts, who invented s’mores, have unveiled two new sweet treats in honor of the centennial of the Girl Scout Cookie sale. Free of artificial colors and preservatives, and hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils, the new Girl Scout S’mores™ are healthier cookies. One is a vegan crispy graham cookie double dipped in a crème icing and enrobed in a chocolaty coating. The other is a crunchy graham sandwich cookie with a chocolate and marshmallow-y filling. Sales of GS cookies help fund awesome experiences for the scouts: a trip to the nation’s capital, community projects, summer camp, and charitable donations. Here’s wishing another 100 years in creating leaders and awesome cookies!
Rights To Ride County Taxicab Improvement Bill Passed On November 15th, during the final session for Legislative Year 2016 the County Council adopted Council Bill 9-2016, amending the County Code to address taxicab regulations and reducing the age and mileage maximums of taxicabs approved to operate in Prince George’s County. The legislation also creates a standard level for driver conduct and training. Under the legislation, taxicabs operating in Prince George’s County must be no more than 7 years old and have less than 200,000 miles. CB-9-2016 would also require taxicabs to display a copy of the Passenger Bill of Rights, detailing the obligations and standards that must be met by taxicab operators and companies.
Seeking To Seal the Approval County Executive Baker Regarding FBI Headquarters Project Moving Forward The U.S. House of Representatives Transportation & Infrastructure Committee passed a resolution in December to authorize the General Services Administration to move ahead with the FBI Headquarters relocation project. The project is pending Congressional appropriation of the needed funding. Prince George’s has two of the final three potential sites- the Greenbelt Metro Station and the former Landover Mall area. The third potential site is in Virginia. “This Resolution is a critical milestone and I am confident that Maryland will continue to stand together as we focus on securing the full $1.4 billion needed to fund this project,� said County Executive Rushern L. Baker III. Three teams of developers are in competition to win the opportunity to build the new FBI headquarters that will house 11,000 employees. Each developer was required to submit final bids by January 6. The final site decision expected in December has been pushed back to March 2017.
Realtor Roll Call Association of Realtors Installs Dowtin, New Officers & Directors The White House isn’t the only place bringing in new leadership. Patricia Dowtin, a realtor associated with Long and Foster Real Estate in Mitchellville, MD, has been recently installed as 2017 President of the Prince George’s County Association of REALTORSŽ (PGCAR). Dowtin took the helm of the 3,000 member organization on October 1. Dowtin has served PGCAR in a number of capacities through the years most recently as President-Elect. During her 31 years of continuous membership Ms. Dowtin has served on many PGCAR committees. President Dowtin plans to enhance PGCAR’s very comprehensive community service profile which includes a holiday food drive, scholarships for high school seniors, fair housing education and much, much more. PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
Photos by Raediant Movement
Why work out with a group when you can do it alone? Three words: motivation, accountability and camaraderie\ Dance, yoga, martial arts and other forms of movement are enjoyable DQG HIIHFWLYH WRROV IRU ZHOOQHVV 7KH\ KDYH WKH EHQ¿W RI EHLQJ GRQH WR a podcast or youtube video in the comfort of your living room - so why sign up for a class? 7KH PRVW HIIHFWLYH ZD\ WR GHYHORS ORQJ WHUP ¿WQHVV KDELWV DQG SURWHFW yourself from injury is to commit to a structured class where expert demonstrations of technique and the dynamic environment provided by moving with a group provides the structure and connection that contributes to the creation of a life-long movement habit. When you sign up for a class, you’re motivated to push yourself and complete the class with the group. When you’re alone in your living room, it may be tempting to cut that workout short. When you move regularly with a group, you have an instructor who notices when you miss a class. The accountability keeps you on track to reach your goals. Lastly the camaraderie of the group and the power of human interaction keeps you moving even when you’ve had a long day and don’t feel like making that evening class. At Joe’s, we provide extraordinary, daily movement opportunities under our emporium structure. We have everything from yoga to belly dance to dancehall. The power of the group carries on forward to meet goals ....dancing is PRUH WKDQ ¿WQHVV LWœV FXOWXUH DQG FRQQHFWLRQ Join us at Joe’s in the New Year to support your wellness goals.
visit joe’s online for classes: www.joesmovementorg/adult_classes
Around
The Region
The Last Circus: Out Of This World
Washington,, DC
Blast Off with Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Dubbed The Greatest Show on Earth, circus fans better run for tickets to the District’s last performances of the infamous Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey circus that have wowed audiences for over 100 years and are bringing down the tent for the last time. Themed “Out of this World,” this story-lined show gives audiences the ultimate circus experience with an intergalactic adventure for space-age family fun. Featuring gravity-defying acrobats, orbital aerialists, majestic animals, fearless daredevils and ever-loving clowns, the Circus Space Fleet goes on a heroic quest of good versus evil that lets imaginations run wild with unexpected surprises aand thrills at every turn. Is it a circus or an ice show? Find out at tthe Verizon Center,, March 31-April p 2.
Rockin’ Th The Green Shamrock FFest - Largest Irish Celebration Returns to DC Nothing screams shenanigans more than thousands of people packing a stadium m we wearing green. The National Shamrock Fest is the region’s largest Saint Patrick’s D Day festival. And on March 11, everyone is Irish when from 2-10 p.m., com come rain or shine, RFK Stadium’s Festival Grounds at 2400 E. Capitol St. N NE, Washington, D.C. hosts more than 30 bands and DJs on five stages. stag Headliners include: Dropkick Murphys, House of Pain, Coolio, and an Carbon Leaf. Go for the live rock and Celtic music, food, roving entertainers, craft vendors, an Irish Village, carnival rides and games, en and a of course, globs of beer. Who knows? Maybe you’ll uncover a leprechaun l among us.
Alexandria, VA Before the Spirits Are Swept Away Uncovering African American Historic Site Paintings A special exhibit featuring over 20 paintings, including large scale works, of former slave dwellings that dot the landscape across the region and state by local artist Sherry Z. Sanabria (1937-2014) is on display at the Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe Street, Alexandria, VA through May 29. The poignant and beautifully remarkable works entitled “Before the Spirits Are Swept Away: African American Historic Site Paintings,” are part of Sanabria’s “Sites of Conscience” series, which takes viewers to places of horror prisons, concentration camps, and mental hospitals - where African Americans endured pain and suffering that should never be forgotten. 14.
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Politician For A Day Second Annual Annapolis Day for Students On November 12, Maryland District 26 Delegate Tony Knotts hosted the 2nd Annual Annapolis Day for Students. Knotts, the former county council chairman and council member for District 8 followed last year’s successful pilot event by bringing students back to Annapolis to learn how the legislative process works. In a mock session students had the opportunity to discuss selected bills, cast their votes, and understand the importance of having their voice heard on issues of critical concern to them and their community. Students who attended the session were from schools that included Crossland High School, Friendly High School, Oxon Hill High School, and Potomac High School. Other sponsoring organizations included the National Harbor Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Henry’s Soul Café, and Prince George’s County Drug Policy Coalition, Inc.
The Music Died Here Too
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Charles Ellis Among So Many Music Icons Gone in 2016 It was just over a year ago – before Prince and David Bowie and Glenn Frey – and not as widely recognized as others but Prince George’s Philharmonic leader Charles Ellis passed away in 2016 along with so many music and film giants that year. Ellis was 67 and had just led the orchestra through its 50th anniversary celebration the year before. A graduate of Indiana University, the New England Conservatory and the Peabody Conservatory of Music, Ellis served a long-time Music Directorship with the Prince George’s Philharmonic Orchestra. His guest-conducting appointments included performances with the Baltimore Symphony, Syracuse Philharmonic, Columbus Symphony, Florida Symphony, Charlotte Symphony and the Savannah Symphony Orchestra.
Telling Herstory The National Women’s History Museum - Always Open ! For too long, women have been left out of the telling of our nation’s history. Don’t confine women’s history to one month. You can easily access information about the contributions women have had on the social, cultural, economic and political life of our nation at the National Women’s History Museum year ‘round and online. Current exhibits include Chinese American Women: A History of Resilience and Resistance; Entrepreneurial Women; Crusade for the Vote: Suffrage Resource Center; Reforming Their World: Women in the Progressive Era; and Claiming Their Citizenship: African American Women From 1624-2009. Skip the lines at www.nwhm.org - the museum is always open! 16.
Grand Opening For A Grand Opening PGCMLS’s Laurel Branch Opens to the Public Prince George’s County Memorial Library System celebrated their latest library opening in Laurel, MD. Located at 507 7th Street, the grand opening of the new branch spanned the week of November 28 through December 4. Visitors were impressed with the new building being almost twice the size of the old library. This newly constructed branch includes 53 computers, two meeting rooms, multiple study rooms, Wi-Fi and a dinosaur-themed children’s section with a glassed encased dinosaur fossil replica of a Nanotyrannus in the flooring. It also has an emergency shelter-in-place area. The Laurel Branch has the unique distinction of having VOX™ books in its collection. A VOX™ book is a book containing a thin VOX™ reader attached to the inside front cover of each book. The reader is pre-loaded with a complete narration of the book. Simply push the button and listen; following along with the story. PGCMLS has the first library in the state of Maryland to offer audio-enabled VOX™ books for young readers. For more information about VOX™ books, visit http://www.voxbooks.com/ For more information about PGCMLS, visit www.pgcmls.info
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Passing The Torch of The Flame Bowie State University President Mickey Burnim to Retire in June There would never have been a welcome time to see Bowie State University President Mickey L. Burnim decide to step away from the University. However, he has made that decision. Burnim announced plans to retire at the end of the fiscal year on June 30, capping a 40-year career in higher education and nearly 11 years at the helm of BSU. The announcement comes as Bowie State welcomes its largest-ever freshman class. “It has been a tremendous journey of service through my career of teaching and leading, but the time has come for me to transition to spending more time enjoying my family and serving the higher education and broader communities in more focused and limited ways,” Burnim said in an announcement at the university’s Fall Matriculation Convocation and a letter to
Fire Chief Steps Down
the campus community. Bowie State University also formally inducted its largest-ever freshman class of 950 students after graduating a record 1,180 students in the 2015-2016 academic year, a 27 percent increase since Burnim became president in September 2006. Among the accomplishments under Burnim’s watch is the opening of the new $70 million performing arts center, the upcoming math and science building and his guidance of the university through the celebration of its sesquicentennial year (150). His tenure at Bowie State has also been marked by steady progress toward becoming one of the best comprehensive universities in the nation. The university has experienced significant increases in regional and national recognition, transformation of teaching and research environments across the campus, and expansion of academic programs and opportunities for student research. A positive enrollment trend and a focus on student success have resulted in the significant growth in the annual number of graduates. Council, Maryland METRO Chiefs and Maryland Fire Chiefs. He has been honored with various community leadership awards. In 2004, he received the PGFD Silver Medal of Valor. Bashoor is a regular contributor to Firehouse Magazine and Firehouse. com. His next move? A house in Florida.
Marc S. Bashoor Retires in March Sound the alarms! Marc S. Bashoor will be retiring as Fire Chief of Prince George’s County Fire/ EMS Department - the largest combination department in North America - on March 1; a position he has held since his appointment December 2010. At age 16, Bashoor started out as a volunteer firefighter in Prince George’s, and officially joined the fire service in 1981. His progressive community-based approach has led to record hiring and a strategic apparatus replacement plan. And he’s been a hands-on leader. A day after a house fire killed a father and his three daughters in Glenarden in 2013, Bashoor reached out to Pastor John K. Jenkins, Sr. of First Baptist Church of Glenarden; weeks later, he delivered fire safety education from the pulpit to a congregation We’re here to help first-time homebuyers navigate the mortgage of thousands (see YouTube video/Mark process and make buying a home affordable, even if you have: Brady PGFD) and separately, to the chil• Little money for a downpayment dren of the congregants. • Little or “less-than-perfect” credit history Ever busy, Bashoor still made it • A recent job change his purpose to stay involved, serving on many committees including Chairman To get started, call 1-888-253-0993 of the Metro Washington Council of or visit mtb.com/mortgage. Governments Fire Chiefs Committee, Equal Housing Lender. This is not a commitment to make a mortgage loan. Certain restrictions apply. Subject to credit and property approval. National Capital Region Planning.
Homeownership is important.
©2016 M&T Bank. Member FDIC. NMLS# 381076
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Healthy Work: Leaders at Doctors Community Hospital at the grand opening of the new health center in Hyattsville.
Photo: Doctors Community Hospital
Si Se Puede!
New Doctors Community Hospital Care Center Opens in Hyattsville and Doctors Community Hospital untethered... but when they got to La Clínica, they finally felt opened a new preventative and specialty care site at a new loca- like they were home.” “The focus of this collaboration is delivering the right care, tion adjacent to the Prince George’s Plaza Metro Station in Hyattsville, Md. The outpatient clinic will help address many at the right time and in the right place,” shared Paul Grenaldo, of the socioeconomic and cultural barriers facing the Hispanic chief operating officer at Doctors Community Hospital. “The population in Prince George’s County, where 87 percent of the clinic’s wide range of accessible services will help people prevent adult population lack medical insurance and an estimated 75 illnesses as well as decrease avoidable hospital admissions and percent have limited English language proficiency - two factors readmissions. As a result, it will strengthen the healthcare fabric of our entire community while lowering healthcare costs.” that keep people from getting needed medical care. It is the idea of a welcoming medical home that has been Staffed by family practitioners, case managers, and community health workers, the clinic will provide bilingual and cul- missing for many Latino residents. Azucena Carrió, a long-time turally competent care to underserved residents using a holistic patient of La Clínica and member of its Latino patient commitapproach that starts in the community with La Clínica as a tee, shared, “This is the best clinic, I think, around the world, for medical home and expands with the specialty services provided this clinic takes everyone.” at Doctors Community Hospital. Driven by the notion that health care is a human right, at full capacity, the new clinic will provide high-quality primary care, case management, health education and promotion, insurance assistance, social services, mental health services, radiology, and specialty care. As patients begin to flow into La Clínica, “Their stories remind us why what we do is so invaluable,” reflected Lisa Wise, president of La Clínica del Pueblo. “So many members of the DCH CEO Paul Grenaldo and La Clinica President Lisa Wise Latino community said that they felt Lisa Wise, president of La Clinica del Pueblo La Clínica del Pueblo
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PHOTO: AMIR STOUDAMIRE Politically Empowered: Jim Estepp, Founder and President of the Greater Prince George’s Business Roundtable, focuses on U.S. Sen. Ben Cardin’s remarks in January.
Well Rounded
The Greater Prince George’s Business Roundtable Starts 2017 Maryland Strong are available to sit on the same dais – especially during one of the most heated congressional sessions in history. But The Greater Prince George’s Business Roundtable hosted its first meeting of the year with U.S. Sens. Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen present. The two leaders led in a chorus of discussion on two key points at the Jan. 9 meeting: gaining the FBI HQ in Prince George’s and pushing for Maryland’s interests in the new congress. “The three call-to-action letters were MGM,” said Del. Jay Walker (D-Dist 26) who addressed the leadership. “Now, the three call-to-action letters are FBI.” State Department of Commerce Deputy Secretary Ben Wu highlighted the state’s financial push as partnered with the county’s effort. Wu said “in addition to the state’s $220 million for FBI infrastructure, the Baker Administration is set to apply $97 million if the selection is Greenbelt and $50 million if Landover is chosen.” Prince George’s Police Chief Hank Stawinski announced the overall drop in crime by 9.6 percent in 2016 (1,800 fewer victims of crime). The chief also noted that Prince George’s County Crime Solvers, a local tips center, has shared more leads to PGPD than ever, aiding the department in keeping neighborhoods safe. Leadership remarks and reports were also shared by State Senator Jim It’s rare that two sitting senators
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Rosapepe, County Schools CEO Dr. Kevin Maxwell and Prince George’s County Fire Chief Marc Bashoor. The roundtable moves forward this year with newly elected leadership: Steve Proctor (G.S. Proctor & Associates) has been voted the new board chair and Geoffrey Pohanka (Pohanka Auto North) is now the new Secretary/Treasurer of the influential group. Service & Rewards
Congratulations are in order for over a dozen Prince George’s County detectives, sheriff ’s officers and first responders (some leadership are members of the GPGBR). In a recent awards ceremony, the detectives were announced and recognized for their work in keeping the county safe. The stories of their work to win the awards ranged from uncanny police work to the incredible stupidity of the criminal mind. Outstanding work.
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When you need high-quality health care, we’re here for you... And here. And here. We put the community in Doctors Community Hospital with healthcare services conveniently located throughout Prince George’s County. So, you don’t need to leave your neighborhood to get high-quality medical care. As a healthcare leader, our experienced and compassionate professionals provide exceptional care: + Joslin Diabetes Center – the only multidisciplinary program in the county accredited by the American Diabetes Association + Bariatric and Weight Loss Center – the county’s first hospital to provide bariatric weight loss options using the da Vinci® surgical robot + Doctors Community Breast Center – the first program in the county with a dedicated breast surgeon + Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services – the area’s largest lymphedema program In fact, we have a broad range of medical and surgical services that also include:
+ + + + + + + + +
Cardiology Services and Outpatient Vascular Studies Center for Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Medicine Comprehensive Orthopedic Services Doctors Community Breast Center Doctors Community Practices at Bowie Doctors Community Practices at District Heights Doctors Community Practices at Greenbelt Doctors Community Practices at Landover Hills Doctors Community Practices at Laurel
+ + + + + + + + +
Doctors Community Rehabilitation and Patient Care Center Doctors Community Surgical Associates Doctors Regional Cancer Center Emergency Department Imaging Services Infusion Center Metropolitan Medical Specialists Sleep Center Vascular Health Program
We have also been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a high performing hospital for heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
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Laurel
For more than 40 years, Doctors Community Hospital has provided comprehensive and high-quality care right in your neighborhood. We’ll continue to be here when you need us . . . wherever in Prince George’s County you happen to be.
Greenbelt Lanham Riverdale
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Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
301-DCH-4YOU | 301-324-4968 DoctorsCommunityHospital PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
DCHweb
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Main Campus 8118 Good Luck Road Lanham, Maryland 20706 DCHweb.org 21.
Ratings & Prime Time: A view as hazy as the mood of the 2016 Election Night Watch Party as the results came in.
Surprised Party
Steve & Dianne Proctor.
Nov. 8: The Election Night Felt Around the World… And How It Was in Prince George’s in slow motion. You see it happening but you can’t quite believe it and you can’t take your eyes off what you’re seeing. And so it was on Election Night 2016 at Gaylord National Harbor’s Pose night club where nearly 500 Prince Georgians joined in a Watch Party hosted by G.S. Proctor & Associates. Although Maryland, a democratic state, went blue early enough in the count for the evening, the rest of the nation didn’t pan out as many who attended thought it would. Larry Spriggs, the president & CEO of Soft Con, an IT consulting company based in the county, spent the day aiding other volunteers in getting people to the polls. “I went out and worked the polls. I felt it was important to get out there and support the process. You have to lead by example and encourage those around you,” he says of the work he felt obligated to do after he voted. “It was great.” But Spriggs, like many didn’t expect what was unfolding. “We have to look inside ourselves as African American people and ask why. These numbers are reflective of the lack of African Americans that came out,” he said as the numbers came in. But like others, he celebrated G.S. Proctor’s efforts in hosting. “Steve always does a first class job in bringing the community together--whether people are Republican or Democrat.” It was like watching a car wreck
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Steve Proctor, president and CEO of G.S. Proctor & Associates, a Maryland-based lobbying firm, grappled with the news as it unfolded. “I have never seen a [campaign season nor an] election like this,” he said. “This is the weirdest thing of all. I really think it’s kind of sad because you wake up the next morning and you have to govern and you have a very divided country. It will take a real effort to bring everybody together. I don’t know how you do that. [Whether Democrat or Republican] you can say we won, but it will be a real challenge to bring everybody back together after this campaign season.” Howard University freshman Aaliyah Zonicle said that in her view the results were indicative of the differing viewpoints across the nation regarding the identity and direction of the country. “It gets me angry,” she said of the Trump victory. “But I’m more disappointed than angry,” she said as Election Night drew to a close. “[President-elect Trump] didn’t put himself there. People put him there and they elected him. And so they elected him based on the fact that his views represent their views. So I have to be realistic and say this is 2016 but we are not all on the same accord here. We are very different. I’m optimistic because people came out and voted. I cast my ballot and before I did it, I prayed.” Whatever happens, happens.”
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Gala With A Cause: Robert and Marge Baltimore’s annual holiday gala serve to aid in the development of a center to help the families suffering the ravages of Alzheimer’s disease.
Puttin’ On The Ritz
10th Annual Black Tie Holiday Gala Raises Funds and Recognizes Leaders just glitz and glamour as 350 (Ret.) for Maryland, Gloria Lawlah, and Delegate Melony G. th guests attended the 10 annual Black Tie Holiday Gala. Its Griffith, Maryland 25th district. For his 30 years of service to the state of Maryland, Senator mission- to raise money to support the development of a comprehensive Alzheimer’s daycare center in Prince George’s County Ulysses Currie was presented with an Open Thank You Letter and to honor business leaders for their contributions to the plaque and a standing ovation. The Trebor Center will be located in the 25th district. community- was the goal and it was a complete success. To learn more about the Trebor Alzheimer’s and Senior The event was sponsored by Marge Baltimore with the Trebor Support center visit www.treborcenter.org. Alzheimer’s and Senior Support Center. The gala saluted the extraordinary work of State’s Attorney Angela Alsobrooks and business leaders, Stan Neal, Jr, President and CEO, Fresh Air, LLC; Cheryl Thomas and Evelyn Gardiner, Founders of A.C.E. Assisted Living; Kim Thrower, Founder and CEO, Essential Relief Support Services, LLC.; Lee Bellamy and Corey Bellamy, B & B Floor Services, LLC.; Eric Allen, Founder and President, Clean Team Janitorial Service and Timothy Smith, Front Street Management, LLC. Guests enjoyed the keynote speaker Senator (Ret.) Verna L. Jones-Rodwell, board member of the National Alzheimer’s Association and the music of international recording artist saxophonist, Brian Lenair. Among the attendees were Senator Joanne C. Benson, Senator Ulysses Currie, Senator (Ret.) and Salute: Angela Alsobrooks Sexy Being Green: Robert and Marge Baltimore with Sen. Joanne C. Benson Secretary of Department of Aging at center. On December 3, it wasn’t
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Raised Hope: Once an orphan, County Councilmember Deni Taveras has had a long and tough road to get to Prince George’s.
PHOTO: AMIR STOUDAMIRE
The Sky’s No Limit
Deni Taveras: From Tough Beginnings In New York To Her Own Brand Of Leadership By Maria Lopez Bernstein It wasn’t easy for a Dominican girl from New York to make it to the County Council’s office in Prince George’s County, Md., but for Councilmember Deni Taveras (D-District 2), nothing came easy anyway. She was ready for the fight. “I’m a product of my environment,” says Deni. “Salsa, merengue, all that good stuff. At one point I wanted to be a ballroom dancer.” But life had other plans for the former New Yorker. Deni Taveras’ life had a difficult start. Her mother, Filomena Garcia, committed suicide when Deni was only four. A self-proclaimed “hyper” child, she was shuffled among family members between New York and the Dominican Republic before settling with her father, Bienvenido Taveras, a taxi driver. But tragedy struck again when he was killed while driving his cab in the Bronx. Deni was 8. It was the 1980s and the now-orphaned child became a ward of the state. Placed with her maternal grandmother, Taveras lived in a crime and drug-infested neighborhood of Harlem. Through the years, Deni shared that home with nearly 20 family members. “It was a revolving door,” she says, “this is ultimate first generation.” Life kept throwing curve balls at the Harlem youngster. “Talk about the school-to-prison pipeline,” Deni says of her middle school which was across the street from a juvenile detention center. Life was bleak for many young people who fell 24.
through the cracks, but Deni wouldn’t become one of those. “I became very serious after my Dad died because I felt very alone. I couldn’t depend on anyone and because of that I had to grow up fast. I knew there had to be a better life.” The Value of Education and Opportunities
Deni credits her Aunt Eva, a school teacher, for instilling her value of education. Unfortunately, the rest of her family wasn’t as supportive. “My grandmother only had a first grade education. I really knew I couldn’t get at home what I needed, so I always tried to get involved in afterschool activities.” Programs such as the Science and Technology Entry Program, Talent Search, Double Discovery at Columbia University, and Liberty Leads gave the young student the opportunities and extra push she needed. Deni set her sights on a career in theoretical physical chemistry. Mentorship was pivotal. While a student enrolled in the HEOP program at Barnard College, “Francesca Cuevas was an amazing mentor and mother figure. She ran the office and she was really an anchor for all of us; for a whole generation of young women who went through the school and through the program.” A Calling To Community
But while earning a Master’s in chemistry at the University of Utah, Deni says, she missed community involvement. “I felt
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PHOTO: AMIR STOUDAMIRE
disconnected from the community, from what I grew up with. I was disenfranchised on the periphery of society.” She decided to work in informational interviewing within the Latino community. There, she noted that Latinos in Utah were living with the same issues that Latinos in New York experienced. “There was a draw to get educational opportunities.” But working in chemistry wasn’t going to allow young Taveras to interact with the communities that she wanted to help. A soul-searching, year-long sabbatical took her to Chicago, Ill, where she figured out she could combine her two passions for science Community Related: Taveras maintains a particular interest in elevating the voice of Latino families. and community by working on environmental great milestones for him and for the state and for Latinos and so issues. The young professional went to work with I’m proud to have been a part of that.” the Environmental Protection Agency in New York. Wanting more, the young leader set her eyes on a way to make She didn’t know it before working for the EPA, “but politics plays a role in the environment,” says Deni. She became a larger impact for her community. Winning by just six votes, involved with Dominicans 2000, a Dominican group seeking Deni became the first Latina to hold a County Council seat in to make community change through political action. This peer Prince George’s. group included such notables as New York City councilman “I think this is an opportunity to push the agenda and ask for Ydanis Rodriguez; former U.S. Ambassador to Uruguay Julissa more so that the systems in place reflect the population they’re Reynoso and Daisy Dominguez, now Global Head of Diversity actually serving,” she says. “Not just at the highest levels of Staffing at Google. administration, but at the teacher and principal levels, students need to see themselves there so they can see the possibilities.” Coming to Maryland Long-time friend Reggie Ellison believes Taveras can do anyA job offer from the Dominican American National Roundtable in Washington, D.C., along with what Deni calls thing. “She has a toughness about her that will serve her well to “ideology and naive optimism” brought her to the DMV and to fight issues that other council members are not familiar with,” reside in Maryland in 2005. At DANR, Deni was able to help says the Senior Community Development Analyst who works with the passing of CAFTA-DR (Central America Free Trade for the federal government in affordable housing. He lives in Agreement). Deni’s district. Ellison believes Deni’s strength lies in her toughAnd then Hurricane Katrina happened and Taveras traveled to ness and her ability to listen. “Deni is one of the most caring, New Orleans with FEMA to serve as a public information offisupportive people I know,” he adds. “If you’re experiencing cer and disaster relief worker. For five years, coming home after challenges, she will not only listen to you, but she will help you assignments was like coming home from a war: “you just see one through it.” disaster after the next,” Deni says. So she resigned. The councilmember says she wants to provide real opporUnemployed when the housing crisis hit, her condominium complex in Adelphi was going under. The complex management tunities, be supportive and create new leaders within Latino overspent their budget by over a half million dollars. There were communities. vacancies and foreclosures. With a lot of opposition from her And this, Ellison says, is important: As a Latina “who really very diverse neighbors, Deni took control of the condo, oversee- cares about the issues and public policy and given the times we’re ing its management and within a couple of years, Deni reports, in, we’re going to need her voice.” He foresees a state seat for took it from a near-bankrupt association to a multi-million her one day. dollar organization. But for now, Deni knows it is all a process and that it will take time. Political Action “The only thing I didn’t achieve was become a ballroom Taking note of Taveras’ success with her condo, Senator Victor Ramirez tapped her for a job in his organization. Together, they dancer.” Well, there’s always time for that. helped pass the DREAM Act and passed a law allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain a driver’s license. “Those were For full story, go to www.pgsuite.com PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
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Find Your Passion Build Your Future • A best-value university • In-demand programs • Opportunities to lead 170099-03G
www.bowiestate.edu/yourfuture 266. 26 26.
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New Book Traces Evolution of Bowie State’s History
Book Features First Comprehensive Compilation of University’s Archival Photos
Bowie State classroom, ca. 1960
P
rince George’s County history could not be
internationally recognized scholar with more than 50 years
told without including the story of Bowie State
in academia.
University, which began as a one-room school
“This book is an important work to highlight Bowie State
for newly emancipated African Americans in 1865 and
University’s immense contributions to the state of Maryland,
relocated from Baltimore to Bowie in 1911.
the nation and the world in preparing students to address the
Now, a new limited-edition book detailing the evolution of Maryland’s oldest historically black university from
challenges of the future,” said President Mickey L. Burnim. The timing of the publication comes just as the university
its humble beginnings to one of the nation’s top
concluded the celebration of its 150th anniversary last fall
comprehensive universities is available for purchase
and dedicated a historic marker recognizing the university’s
at the Bowie State Bookstore.
significance to Maryland’s history earlier this year. The
The colorful 200-page hardcover volume, entitled
book is a collector’s item that stands as a beautiful tribute
“The Torch of Knowledge: A History of Bowie State
to the men and women whose sacrifices made it possible
University,” is a pictorial record of the people, milestones
for thousands of graduates and students to earn a
and accomplishments that tell the story of the school’s
life-changing education.
progression. It is the first time that archival photos from the university’s past and images of relevant historical documents were assembled together in a single publication. The book costs $70 and is available in limited quantities. The authors, Drs. George Simmons and Esther Ward
Purchase your copy today! Bowie State Bookstore 14000 Jericho Park Road
Simmons, devoted more than a decade to researching the
Bowie, MD 20715
institution’s history through hours of collecting and pouring
301-860-4350
through original documents. Dr. Esther Simmons is a professor emeritus and former provost with more than 40 years of service to Bowie State; Dr. George Simmons is an PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
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Growing God’s House Celebrating 100 Years of Discipleship, First Baptist Church of Glenarden Continues Its Growth And Mission By Maria Lopez-Bernstein & Raoul Dennis You can get a lot done in 100 years. Certainly, First Baptist Church of Glenarden defines that point. FBCG has three locations and is currently building a 56,000 sq foot Family Life Center. The Worship Center, the largest of the three current facilities, sits on 160 acres. FBCG provides over 100 programs, and four services every Sunday. The church is full to overflow most Sundays, with some 12,000 weekly attending worship services and another 1.8 million viewing live through online streaming. First Baptist’s influence goes well beyond the pulpit. The school, Shabach! Ministries, teaches some 466 students per year. It provides seven programs and services, including aviation and photography. Shabach! has a day care and elementary school, as well as before and after care, a summer enrichment program and a K-12 home school administration program. The church employs over 300 people and its services staffing is competitive with any major hotel and restaurant venue in the region. Today, FBCG is considered a mega church. Nationally, it has been the winner of the Steve Harvey Neighborhood Award for Best Church for six consecutive years. This didn’t happen without the direction of a visionary leadership. Pastor John K. Jenkins, only the seventh minister in
church history, brought First Baptist from 500 members when he began in 1990 to the nearly 2 million participants today. “First Baptist Church of Glenarden has witnessed physical and cultural changes in our community,” Pastor Jenkins modestly says of the role he has played in the growth. “They include racial and socio-economic changes that many of our people have faced. While we’ve made progress in some areas there is still work to do in other areas. As we believe in ‘Developing Dynamic Disciples’ this also includes developing dynamic communities. We’ve partnered with the community on many programs, including those for senior citizens, hospitals, schools and financial institutions among others.” “I’m honored to be in leadership Pastor John Jenkins’ vision has at First Baptist Church of Glenarden grown FBCG to nearly 2 million and viewing worshippers at this time,” Jenkins says. “We’ve seen active each Sunday. hope revitalized in many of our members, including marriages, finances and much more.” To see the Full Story go to http://pgsuite.com, see Faith, First Baptist Church of Glenarden.
PGCPS COUNTYWIDE
STUDENT ART EXHIBIT
Feb 22nd - March 6th Reception Feb 22nd 6-8pm The Mall at Prince Georges 3500 East West Hwy, Hyattsville MD PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
Want to know more? elizabeth.stuart@pgcps.org FALL/WINTER 2016-2017 PGCPS Visual Arts Supervisor
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A Good Gamble By Marc Hopkins
O
n a recent chilly Wednesday afternoon, all 39 poker tables at MGM National Harbor were at full capacity, with a handful of guys waiting in line to join the action. A few steps away, the dice rolled freely at the craps tables and hopeful players relaxed in plush seats amidst the glitter of slot machines.
Doors Open, New Day: MGM National Harbor opened in December with great promise.
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-XVW RXWVLGH WKH JDPLQJ Ă RRU a candle-lit cocktail lounge, Felt, offered a healthy catalog of mixed drinks, wine, and whiskey. If patrons still wanted to make a wager, games of chance were inlaid along the bar to satisfy more than the need for a good beverage. This is a typical day at MGM National Harbor, the region’s latest destination spot, that’s positioned to draw an international crowd to Prince George’s. MGMNH encompasses a 306-room hotel, a casino, restaurants, shopping and a 3,000-seat theater that offers A-list acts such as Sting and Cher. Cher will hold MGMNH’s first residency, following the successful tradition of top tier resort destinations around the world, where stars like Celine Dion have had residencies at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas for years. Cher’s presence is more than just an opportunity to catch her show. It’s an investment on Cher’s and MGMNH’s part that this center will be a global destination, equal to any other in the industry. Since the $1.4 billion project opened Dec. 8, it’s brought in a reported $41.9 million in its first month and created nearly 4,000 jobs. Officials say nearly half of those jobs have been filled by county residents. “This has always been the best location in the Washington metropoli32.
tan region to do something great,� said Prince George’s County Council Chairman Derrick L. Davis on MGMNH’s opening night. “And it feels good to feel that we’ve actually done the great thing that was supposed to be done here.� [See video of Mr. Davis’ detailed remarks at www. pgsuite.com] Davis went on to praise the developer Milt Peterson, principal and chairman of the Peterson Companies, for paving the way for MGMNH’s entrance into the market by creating a miniature city at the edge of the Potomac, known as National Harbor. He was equally jubilant over the instant increase in employment, noting that states don’t usually achieve the level of job growth that’s occurred in Prince George’s. County Executive Rushern L. Baker, III, views the new complex as a game changer for Prince George’s. “The thing that is greatest about this is that this facility is a watershed mark for us in the county,� he said. “The signal it sends to businesses is that this really is the place to be.� Outside the casino, MGMNH feels like an upscale 21st century VIP mall, with pristine white corridors that lead to luxury retail experiences, like the SJP store opened by actress Sarah Jessica Parker. Much like her
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“Sex in the City” character, Carrie Bradshaw, the boutique clearly doubles as a gallery to showcase her love of shoes, handbags, and accessories. The posh aesthetic continues into the food court, where high tables and stools populate the seating area. In the summer, an outdoor deck awaits with umbrella tables that overlook the property. Hungry shoppers have a number of choices from burgers at the Shake Shack to sushi at Bento, or crab cakes at Pappas. “This is a huge step having this type of entertainment resort venue in the county,” said Lorenzo Creighton, MGMNH’s president and chief operating officer. When asked about the notion that MGMNH is contributing to the county’s growing identity as an entertainment destination to the national capital region, Creighton remained soft spoken and modest but he acknowledged the direction. “We hope that we can be a part of that,” he said. “This is a good step. Having this type of entertainment resort facility in the county is a huge step. The great restaurants like Marcus Samuelsson and Brothers Brian and Michael Voltaggio and Jose Andres and then our own branded concepts like Tap puts Prince George’s on the map for entertainment and it’s a great gateway into the county.” And, the project still isn’t totally finished as more retailers are expected to open over coming months. There were initial worries about traffic, but so far, the county seems to have enthusiastically embraced its newest addition. Arel Architects’ Ron Lipford, who had a hand in designing MGMNH, said the property is destined to become a global attraction. “This is an international-level facility. We have to get used to that now, because it’s going to attract international-level people.” Indeed, according to Matt Neitzey, Prince George’s Conference and Visitors Bureau boss, “MGM National Harbor will shift the balance of tourism power to this side of the beltway. Think about it: if you’re in your hotel in this area, you now have an extra reason to stay an extra night and come here.”
PHOTO: KEVIN MAZUR
Star Power--We’ll Be Watching Them: Singer/ Songwriter Sting comes to MGMNH March 12. At top: Actress Sarah Jessica Parker and her team during the opening of her high-end shoe store. Academy Award ZLQQHU DQG VLQJHU &KHU ZLOO EH WKH ¿UVW DUWLVW LQ residence at the destination March 17 through September 10. CNN Anchor Wolf Blitzer and MGM Resorts International Chairman and CEO Jim Murren. FALL/WINTER 2017
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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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