Suite Prince George’s
A Great View Of Prince George’s County, Md
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Liberty Sports Park Building Fields Of Dreams
Best 2023 EVs // Wes Moore // The New Safety Corridor // Phylicia Rashad at PGCC // Durant Aids BSU // Frances Tiafoe // First Annual PGC Film Festival // Get Winter Ready New Physicians At MedStar, The Arc Prince George’s, UMD Regional Medical Center, Cancer Moonshot, Bladensburg’s All-Black Women Leadership, Industrial Bank’s Doyle Mitchell, First Baptist Church of Glenarden’s Annual Car And Bike Show, Legacy:FSC First’s Shelly Gross-Wade, Photo Essay: Ghana Aid And More
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.
Suite Readers
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Average age: 38 Women: 52% Men: 48%
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Suite Prince George’s
A Great View Of Prince George’s County, Maryland
FALL/HOLIDAY 2022 Raoul Dennis Publisher/Editor-In-Chief D. A. Phillips Associate Publisher Frank Dexter Brown Editor At Large
Raoul Dennis, Amir Stoudamire Advertising Tiffany Young Editorial Assistant
Raoul Dennis Art Director/Page Design Brian Young Design Consultants
Maria Lopez-Bernstein Photo Editing & Consultant Amir Stoudamire Senior Photographer
Writers D.A. Phillips, Tiffany Young, Raoul Dennis
Photographers Raoul Dennis, Amir Stoudamire, Alicia Adams Consultants & Support Barbara Frazier, Mildred B. Dennis, Ysabel Garcia de Lopez and Eugenia Hopkins .
Editor Ad Infinitum Ed Brown
Cover
“The Leaders Of Liberty Sports Complex”
Liberty Sports Park’s Green Branch Management Group board: (l-r) Scott Morrison, former Green Branch Board member Ingrid S. Harrison, Thomas H. Graham, Walter W. Green, former Maryland Senator Douglas J.J. Peters and NAI Michael Companies President Gary Michael PHOTO: RAOUL DENNIS
Prince George’s Suite magazine is published four times per year by RADENN MEDIA GROUP, LLC, P.O. Box 1066, Oxon Hill, MD 20750. 410/553-2084. Subscription rates: $20/year in the United States and all its possessions. Single copies $9.95, 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 © 2022 by RADENN MEDIA GROUP, LLC. All rights reserved. ISSN No. 1941-6024. All advertising inquiries should be directed toward advertising@pgsuite.com or call 410/553-2084. 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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12. Prince George’s Receives The International Horse Show
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16. Bladensburg: Black Women Leadership
12. Four Women: Celebrating 100
19. County Executive Angela Alsobrooks’ Crime Curfew: It’s Working
14. Tiafoe Time
30. Profile: Doyle Mitchell: Banking On Prince George’s
13. KD Does It for BSU
20. Profile: Delegate Nick Charles
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19. 28. Ready To Serve: Governor-Elect Wes Moore Holds Post Election Interview
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22. The Best Of Shelly: FSC’s First Boss Retires After Setting A High Bar And Leaving A Powerful Legacy
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24. Journey: Now a bridge builder she was never supposed to make it beyond the prison of her own skin. 34. Cover: Liberty Sports Park and South Lake a new destination in sports, entertainment and living begins.
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70. Medstar Hospital Center introduces new talented physicians to the county community
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72. Can cancer be reduced by 50% over the next decade?
74. UMD Health gets human trafficking grant; Preps new Sickle Cell Center
76. Profile: Meet Adventist Health President Eunmee Shim and learn the 2023 expansion plan. 8.
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48. Safe Haven: A New Corridor Of Health And Safety
56. Giving Back: Helping a community in Ghana with love From Prince George’s 62. September Spectacular: Car & Bike Show
79. The Arc Prince George’s At 70
80. Green Owl Feathers Its Nest - Come Enjoy It
82. Phylicia Rashad, The Prince George’s Philharmonic And CAAPA Tell Stories
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Outlook
In This Edition
at the ongoing growth and business of the County–and all those things that make life here better. The year was one of re-emergence for more residents from their homes, back to work, to school, to play. But we found that doesn’t mean all the challenges faded to nothingness. In Prince George’s however, communities move forward–remembering the losses and using that energy to proudly build toward the future. We congratulate County Executive Angela D. Alsobrooks on her reelection–and the tremendous work her office has done to curb crime (Page 19). We thank the previous county council on the historic work accomplished over the last six years while we congratulate the new members of Prince George’s County Council as it moves forward. This is a special edition--the largest and most comprehensive since our launch in 2005. In it, we introduce change, growth accomand plishments Prince George’s has seen over these 12 months. We meet new faces in familiar places following transitions of state and county elections, we welcome new neighbors and corporate partners, and get our first look at the county’s newest destination hotspot. “If you build it, they will come”- in “Field of Dreams” (1989) the Ray Kinsella character would admire Prince George’s County’s own Field of Future Dreams – the brainchild of Former Senator Douglas J.J. Peters. Liberty Sports Park is “the stuff that dreams are made of.” The park, the hotels, restaurants and residential living developing in neighboring South Lake will conservatively attract some $31 million annually, thousands of talented athletic youth and future talent scouting. It will shift the center of what is known in the universe of youth sports on the southeastern seaboard of the nation. Liberty opened October 23 and its high potential made it our cover story (Page 34). We visit the town of Bladensburg, once known as Garrisons Landing, and named for Thomas Bladen who governed Maryland (1742-1747). During that period in history, African Americans were viewed only as labor workers. Today, history notes a different role in Bladensburg for African Americans. Today, its mayor and town council are led by all African American Women. (Page 16).
We take a closer look
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The Suite sat down with Maryland’s Governor-Elect Wes Moore for a post-election interview (Page 28) regarding his plans for governing and where the county fits within it. We profile several incredible leaders: Nick Charles (page 20), Industrial Bank President Doyle Mitchell (Page 30), resigning Financial Services Corporation CEO Shelly Gross-Wade (Page 22) and Rev. Alethea Smith-Withers (Page 24) to name a few. All different walks and contributions, all valuable to our communities. We profile several organizations as well. In their own voice, The Community Foundation discusses the ‘Vision for Equity’ with their Senior Director Darcelle Wilson (Page 32). The Arc Prince George’s celebrates 70 years of aid to those with disabilities. Tragically, before the Arc, many people who faced such challenges were warehoused for life (Page 79). Of course, we recognize great development and progress in Prince George’s. Learn about the county’s new Prince George’s Fire Department Fire Station 802-and safety corridor. The new location features a health and wellness facility with a personal trainer for firefighters and paramedics. A new health and human Services headquarters is being planned for the location (Page 48). Health is always top of mind. See the new medical specialists joining MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital (Page 70), University of Maryland Capital Region Health & University Of Maryland earned a grant to tackle human trafficking and will soon open a sickle cell center (Page 74). We look into President Biden’s realistic chances of reducing cancer by 50% over the next 25 years (Page 72) and we profile Eunmee Shim, president of Adventist Healthcare at Fort Washington Medical Center (Page 76). But as a certain Heath Ledger character might ask: ‘Why so serious?’ The 17th annual Car & Bike Show was held at First Baptist Church of Glenarden (Page 62). Take a look at 2023’s hottest EVs (Page 68). We turn the spotlight on a unique retail venture, Nest Proper, (Page 80). It has been a busy, and forward moving year for Prince George’s County. There is much that has been accomplished but keep in mind also, we have arrived at that period where we also slow the pace and look closer to home at families and friends. As the county grows, we celebrate being able to spend time with loved ones, share gifts and the joy of the holiday season. God Bless, --The Editors
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SUITE NEWS ITEMS There’ss allways more to the story….For moore on these stories and pictures go to www w.. . ckkrr..com/photos/ pgsuite.com and www w.flic princegeorgessuite
liives of young students, and honor community addvocaates. Members of the Prince George’ss Countyy Council and Steve Proctor, Prresident, and CEO of G.S. Proctor & Associates, Inc. also receiived service awarrds.
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Prince George’s Communiitty College Student Helps Launch Voting Voting App Prince George’s Community College ( (PGCC) ) student Lemoni Conde helped p launcch ch Voting Voting Budddyy, a new web app des designeed to assist voters in their decision-makinng for o elections.
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p p g g place at the St. Margar a et’ss of Scotland Catholic Churrch in Capitol Heights. Organized by Marylaand State Senator Honorable Joa oanne anne C. Benson.
Honoring First Hispanic Supreme Court Justice, School Gets New Name Adelphi Middle Scchool honors the first Latin American woman Supreme Court Justice, Sonia Sotomaayor Middle Scchool andd renames the scchool located at 8820 Riggs Road. Championed by former District 2 Council Member Deni Taveras, the historic name change will mean a bright future for the th Adelphi d p scchool andd its surrounding d g commuunity. Sotomaayor MS is the first in Council District 2 constructed utilizing the P3 construction model.
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The Washingtton In To Show Plac To Place ce Arena The annual horse sho s w, Washington International Horse Show was held at Show Place Arena’ss Equestrian E Center in Upper Marrlboro October 24-30, 2022. It was presented by MARS M Equestrian. The event waas supported by M-NCPPC, in addition to other local l and state partners, featuredd an outstanding exxhibit hall and a unique q spectato p or experience p filled with entertaiinment,, food and shopping. pp g. Known as one of the biggest horse shows in North America, The Washington International Horse Show is part of the equestrian tradition in Prince George’ss County, MD D. FALL/HOLIDAY 2022
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First Bapttist Church Paays Debt Off and a Celebrates Ce eb atess First Baptist Chur C chh of Glenarden celeebrated 15 years on its 160-acre Worship C Center C Campus on Se S ptember b 18 andd simultaneouslly retired its $24 million mor tgage. Over 300 members of the congregation attended. But even they would haave to admit that retiring a $24 million mor tgage deebt does not happen every daay. When it does, it’ss historic. First Baptist had successfullly closed out not one, but two mor tgages under his watcch and leadership. The first was with w the property on Brightseat Road and now, The Worship Center in the land that itt sits on. It includes an Empowermentt Center and a 63,000-squarefoot Familyy Liiffe Centerr. Worship services and special events e are viewed online in more than 20 countrries.
George’ss F Film Offi Prince (PGFF): Take 1. a and sented in partner v and The Prince Georgess Film Festiival (PGFF 2022) is the preemier event ffoor new film works from up-and-coming and established independdent filmmakers with diverse voices. PGFF 2022 is dedicated to presenting the best b of cinema in Prince George’ss County and creating transfformational experiencess ffor or filmmakers, digital creators, and film enthusiasts.
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Durant Foundation Partners With BSU Bowie State Uniiversity held a press confference in December at the Leonidas S. James Phhysical Education Compleex announcing its upcoming partnership with the Durant Familly Foundation. Wanda Durant, mother to Kevin and president of the Durant Familly Foundation gavve remarks. The announcement served as the foundation’ oundation’s pledge to innvest in the HBCU U. Kevin Durant, a natiive of Prince George’ss County, Md., has given bacck to his hometown of Seat Pleasant on numerous occasions over the years - including a sports center. PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
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starts off the New Year bbig with these events in January. Wed JJan an 4 11am SEM MIN NAR w/Post Classical Ensemble concerts artists @ CCC Wed JJan an 11 7pm Amazing i Grace G C Concer t w/P /Post Classical Cl i l Ensemb C E ble l @ Kenneddy Center, Washington, DC Wed JJan an 18 7pm UNPLUGGED Virtual Panel: “Braanding Yourself as a 21st Century Artist” w/K Ky’lend Thu. Jan Jan 19 1:30 pm TRIP to see “Wiiccked” at the Keneddy Center Sat. Jan. Jan. 21 2:00 pm TRIP to see “CA ATS” @ the National N Theatre Sun. Jan. Jan. 22 2:00 pm TRIP to see “Passion of Mary Caldwell Dawson” w/ Dennyce Graves @ Kenneddy Centerr. Sun Jan Jan 31 4pm Three Blacckk Queens Concert: Maayya, a Marian, and Madame @Daavies Concert Series Ensemble @Kenneddy Center, Washington, DC Wed JJan an 18 7pm UNPLUGGED Virtual Panel: “Braanding Yourself as a 21st Century Artist” w/K Ky’lend y FALL/HOLIDAY 2022
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The Town of Bladensburg Has Made History By Having Its Mayor and Council Led By All African American Women
In A Town Run By
By Tiffany Young
Once known as Garrison’s Landing, the town of Bladensburg was renamed in honor of Thomas Bladen, who governed the state of Maryland from 1742 until 1747 and during this time, Bladensburg was established as a regional commercial center by an act of the Maryland General Assembly. At the same time while establishing itself as a township, once upon a time it was known for its ports, war, and railroads and became the nation’s oldest port towns. While having access to water made the town boom economically in the 18th century, what was not happening were opportunity advancements for people of color and women. Women were not part of the decision-making group, nor were African Americans who were viewed as only labor workers. While the town has developed over decades and incorporated itself as a municipality it has also reached a new historical moment. It’s like a play on broadway. The town is telling a story of bravery and courage and the audience is there to love it or hate it. How can you not be intrigued by their story? The people in this story live in a community with history of its own kind and yet such pride and determination is held by the five African American women who are calling the shots. Sounds like 16.
the making of a great production. In 2020, the census recorded that 53.49% of The Town of Bladensburg’s population was Black or African American and 39.47% Hispanic or Latino. The Mayor and Town Council is the legislative body responsible for determining policies and largely enacting local laws necessary for the protection of the public
The bridge at Bladensburg in 1861
health, safety, and welfare of the community; and Mayor Takisha D. James is the town’s leader. Mayor James, who was elected in October 2017, takes pride in knowing that her team stands tall with four other women of color who care about their community and works hard to see better days for the people who live in it. FALL/HOLIDAY 2022
“It’s an honor to know I’m serving on an allfemale and minority Town Council. This wasn’t something I aspired to,” said Mayor James. With the results from the town’s most recent election, the conclusion was two African American women from the community were elected to serve. Those being Councilmember Trina Brown (Ward 1) and Councilmember Caroll McBryde (Ward 2). “With the addition of our newest colleagues, we are developing a positive, cohesive and collaborative working relationship amongst the Town Council and staff,” she said.
When Mayor James first became the Mayor she held the title as the first African American female mayor of the Town of Bladensburg and after serving a four year term she was re-elected in 2021. Since being Mayor, she has gained a greater appreciation for the historic assets of the Town of Bladensburg. “Our history is incredibly rich, given we are the oldest municipality in Prince George’s County. I look forward to working with our community partners to highlight this in a greater way along with our historic buildings to better serve and educate our residents, particularly our youth about our rich history,” she said. PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
Black Women Since in office, Mayor James has been working to address several key issues in the town. One of those issues has been improving the town’s public safety. “I applaud the work of our public safety officers and the work they do to be proactive with being visible throughout the town, building strong relationships with residents and community stakeholders, as well as their responsiveness to community calls. I will work with our Town Council and staff to increase the sophistication of the tools, resources and partnerships available to our public safety officers to build positive relationships and also work to continue reducing crime,” she said. Another key issue is sustainability and beautification in the town. With continued events such as community cleanups throughout the year the goal is to stop littering. A longer term project is the revitalization of the main corridor on Annapolis Road to create a Town Center. “Given the town was originally established as a regional commercial center in 1742, this connects us to our past while offering the opportunity to meet the varied retail needs of current and future residents,” she said. Ward 1 Councilmember Trina Brown is in agreement to bettering the roads. This has been top priority across the board for the entire administration. Parking, roadways, and PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
traffic calming devices to enforce speed limits is on the budget’s agenda. Councilmember Brown, who is a re-elected public servant, continues to build partnerships with government agencies, collaborate with local businesses, churches, schools, and promote/encourage community engagement. “We know that such actions help to continuously improve the quality of life for all residents. Putting the Town residents first is the goal,” Brown said. Additionally, climate change and its impacts of extreme weather has become an increasing concern for Mayor James. “We are working on a couple of efforts to help mitigate these challenges and protect our community from the devastating impacts such as flooding, which is very common in Prince George’s County. A longer term project is the revitalization of our main corridor on Annapolis Road to create a Town Center. Given the town was originally established as a regional commercial center in 1742, this connects us to our past while offering the opportunity to meet the varied retail needs of current and future residents.” Inspired by her husband and mother, Mayor James is aware of her job and the responsibility it has to lead by example alongside an all female team. At an early age, James’ mother instilled FALL/HOLIDAY 2022
the importance of faith in God and the critical need to serve others. She recalls the day her mom opened her home to a single mother with two young children into her home after learning the family was homeless. She says her parents truly believed in helping others who were in need. Currently inspired by Keisha Lance Bottoms, Mayor James likes the transparency that Atlanta’s former Mayor brought to the city with her administration. She has added Georgia’s Stacy Bladensburg Abrams Mayor to her Takisha James list
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“I think people do not realize that the Town of Bladensburg has a lot of potential being a neighboring city to the thriving Washington DC. I also think most people don’t realize how important the local elections are.” –Councilmember Jocelyn Route of trailblazing women. “She is a true example of taking lemons and turning them into lemonade.” Ward 1 Councilmember Jocelyn Route was inspired to run for office by her family. She remarks how her children told her to run for office. A mother of five children ranging in age from 3 months to 16, Councilmember Route’s desire for her kids is to live in a community that is safe, clean, and thriving. She was elected as Town of Bladensburg Councilwoman for Ward 1 on October 7, 2019 and was sworn into office on December 9, 2019. Having grown up in South Central Los Angeles, California, Councilmember Route’s inspiration comes from Congresswoman Maxine Waters. “She speaks her mind and always advocates for those in our community who need it the most, all with her voice,” she said. Route, who holds a doctoral degree in human services and a MBA in social work, has worked in local government for 13 years and is now working for a federal agency. “If anyone can be impactful and intentional in my community I believed it was
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me because of the diverse skills I have.” Known for the popular Waterfront Park, the Town of Bladensburg has many historical hidden gems. Councilmember Brown says that things about the town that often go unnoticed by people are the thriving businesses and churches, the great schools, and all of the walkable and biking trails, pavilion, children’s playground, and summer concert venues. “We’re looking to continue to revitalize our gateway.” “I think people do not realize that the Town of Bladensburg has a lot of potential being a neighboring city to the thriving Washington DC. I also think most people don’t realize how important the local elections are,” Councilmember Route said. “Voter turnout plays a huge part in which communities receive resources from the state and the county.” Councilmembers Marilyn Blount and Carrol McBryde spend their time advocating for the residents living within the Ward 2 of Bladensburg zone. Councilwoman McBryde who was elected on October 4, 2021 was
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inspired to run for councilwoman for the firsttime by her daily. A mother of seven children, she is new to the area and admittedly is still learning a lot about her community but it’s focused on bringing more resources to the large senior population in her area. “My children as well as my grandchildren inspire me to continue to go forward, to be the light that I have always tried to display and to help, push and drive others to obtain their own excellent greatness,” Councilwoman McBryde said. Mayor James feels privileged to serve as the first African American female mayor for the Town of Bladensburg. “It is an honor because I am keenly aware that if I were alive and living here in 1742, my position in the community would have been incredibly different,” she said. “ This reality is a vivid reminder of how far we have come in society. I am proud to serve a Town that has evolved so significantly and now allows me to sit in the position of executive and legislative leadership.”
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Making The Grade
Delegate Nick Charles (MD-25) A Home Grown Prince Georgian and Air Force Veteran Leads the Maryland House of Delegates Prince George’s County House Delegation
By Tiffany Young PHOTOGRAPHY: AMIR STOUDAMIRE
Seat Pleasant resident Daisy Majette was having some issues with bulk trash in her neighborhood. Instead of letting the problem get out of hand, she did the best thing she knew, to call her delegate. Not just any delegate but to her Delegate Nick Charles is also the person she knew who could get the job done. It’s what he has been known to do since taking office. He gets the job done and for Majette it is exactly what makes him not only a great delegate but a great person. Fully committed to the task of making a difference, Del. Charles is making sure to be present at all times. He is busy leading a team of 23 delegates, as the largest delegation in the State of Maryland. No assignment is too small, so when his constituents come calling, he will answer. Having completed his first year as Chairman of the Delegation, Del. Charles has stepped into one of his biggest roles yet. Following former Delegate Erek Barron’s historic confirmation as the first African American U.S. Attorney of Maryland in 2021, an election was held to replace the Chairman of the Prince George’s County House Delegation. Del. Charles was unanimously elected by his colleagues to take the mantle as the new Chairman and lead the Delegation. He joined the House Ways and Means Committee after serving his first three years on the House Health and Government Operations Committee. Additionally, he serves on the Maryland Procurement Improvement Council (PIC) where he advocates for equity and inclusion on behalf of small and minority businesses. The Air Force veteran credits his own community and family for inspiring him to go into politics. He wanted to make a difference. He wanted to be involved in the decisions happening in his neighborhood. “Instead of 20.
just complaining or having someone I could go to and complain, I wanted to just get it done myself,” he said. Before Charles wore the title of Chairman, he was a young man figuring out his life and was very much impacted by the devastating attack that took place at the Pentagon on September 11, 2001. A Largo High School graduate and then student at Prince George’s Community College, he decided to leave college and his civilian career at the Pentagon and enlist into the United States Air Force.
Not knowing the future, he took a chance and walked into military life ready to experience the unknown. Following the 9/11 attacks he was awarded the Air Force Achievement Medal for his meritorious service with the 60th Fighter Squadron during Operation Noble Eagle for his support role of air patrol missions over our Nation’s Capital and Air Force One escorts protecting the airspace of our community. “During my time in the Air Force, I met so many people. People having different life issues and interests, I had this desire to figure out how to help others,” he said. Throughout these years, Del. Charles has grown a passion for service to others. While his military life is over, it gave him the armor to go out and lead. Growing up as a kid he always had a desire to go into the military. That part he was inspired by his father, Nick Charles I. And, after Del. Carles served his FALL/HOLIDAY 2022
time in the Air Force, when he returned to the area the town he grew up to love was withering away. “It wasn’t until I came back home that I noticed how my community looked different. I wanted to know why Largo looked cleaner than Forestville,” he said. He had enough and wanted something done about the problems and got involved with local politics. He decided to run for office in 2014, the youngest candidate in that race for 2 of the vacant seats for Maryland State Delegate. He lost that election, but did not go away. The fire was lit and he became more involved in the community. He ran again in 2018 the next election and won. Majette, a longtime resident of the Wilburn Community, believes his type of leadership is very necessary. She first met Charles when he won his delegation seat. She admits she didn’t know much about him prior, but it was a day she will never forget that she got to spend in Annapolis with him. “I shadowed him for a day. That entire day I got to see him in action, go to the meetings with him, have lunch with him and just go everywhere he went. That experience really allowed me to see the work he was doing and how he is truly a great person,” Majette said. She has become like a second mother to Charles and anytime she needs something he’s there. “He is a very responsible person and when you call him he jumps to the matters,” she said. Helping others doesn’t go unnoticed and the residents in District 25 see the hard work Charles is putting in. Walter Redmond, president of the Forestville Estate Civic Association first met Del.Charles at a community event helping residents with groceries and now, anytime Del.Charles needs help, Mr. Redmond will help. A longtime educator, Mr. Redmond said he was a college professor at University of District of Columbia while PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
Del. Charles was a student. They both share a love of the brotherhood as members of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. But it was the love for their community and helping others is what connected them. “Nick has a bright future because he relates to the community and he invites the people,” Mr. Redmond said. Redmond’s wife Linda also agrees that Nick is one of the good politicians. “He listens and he tries to get on top of the issue. People will remember that.” Disabled Veterans have a special place in his heart. It’s a charge he took up to make sure he is taking care of the largest veteran population in the state of Maryland that is in Prince George’s County. “It’s not always the physical that makes them disabled, a lot of them come home with mental trauma,” he said. His focus for the county, especially in District 25 varies. He says the county has different socioeconomic issues, but he wants to address the issues that are top billing for everyone, like overpaying in taxes. “Taxes are one of those issues that hit everyone. I want to make sure we help people save as much as we can,” Charles said. Another priority of Charles’ is the cleanliness of the county. Residents are having a hard time understanding why the state roads are filled with trash and why the grass is not maintained. “I put a bill in the last legislative session to force M-DOT to give us a schedule and budget breakout for each district office and have since been working with MDOT to make sure we are taken care of. We have opened up public virtual meetings so that we can have an open and transparent community conversation,” Delegate Charles said. “If you see overgrown grass or trash. We want to address it.” At the end of the day, the young delegate wants what’s best for all Prince George’s County residents. He is working to improve neighborhoods across District 25. He has joined the The Marlboro Pike Partnership, to revitalize one of Forestville’s forgotten thoroughfares. In addition, he is focusing on the Blue Line Corridor helping to bring life to Downtown Prince George’s, clean and maintained state roads, stopping the spread of the over-proliferation of tobacco shops masking as convenience stores throughout our community, protecting our veterans, creating free PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
Delegate Nick Charles
opportunities for your our youth through recreation with M-NCPPC, and addressing the housing crisis and appraisal basis destroying generational wealth in our county are just a few of the key areas of focus for Delegate Charles and the House Delegation. These issues are critical and key to making sure not just his constituents in District 25 are taken care of, but all residents of Prince George’s County feel their rights and services are honored. Being noted as one of the many young people working in the House Delegation, he doesn’t take his role lightly. He expressed that he is here for everyone. He wears many hats, but the role as father FALL/HOLIDAY 2022
has shaped him to be a better delegate, he said. His two young children are his most vocal constituents outside of his parents. Keeping him busy and most importantly honest. “I am proud that my kids get to see their father advocating for their community and see so many African Americans and especially women in leadership and politics, making a way for others. “During this journey of service my children have learned to become advocates for themselves and that’s one of the most important takeaways for me,” he said. 21.
Shelly Gross-Wade’s Legendary Career Hats Off And Farewell To A Leader Who Took It To - And From The Bank For County Start Ups And Small Businesses
George’s County asked FSC to launch a $10 COVID-impacted businesses, totaling For years, black families struggled with loans million grant program funded by the Federal $37.2 million. from financial institutions. Shelly Gross- Government. In return, the government pro- “In order for you to grow, you have to take Wade, CEO of the Financial on risks, and those risks are The annual operating budget started at $135,000 and Services Corporation (FSC) worth taking if you are paschanged that trajectory for has grown to approximately $2.5 million under sionate about what you believe thousands of Prince George’s in,” said Shelly. “My passion Gross-Wade’ s leadership. County businesses. has been my driving force…If Historically, lenders racially you are passionate about discriminated against blacks something, be accountable and denied them economic about it. Consistently pay stability and growth. For over attention to it and bring it full 45 years, Shelly primarily circle.” With an impressive served small and minoritycareer and a lifelong dedication owned businesses in to her community, Shelly Maryland. attributes her success to letting “Ms. Shelly is gracious and her passions drive her. She is well respected. My business very passionate about being a and many others I know reliable resource for small and wouldn’t exist without her minority-owned businesses. As leadership and dedication,” she moves into a new season of said Chef Ryan Wallen, owner her life, Shelly will continue to of Cori’s Modern Kitchen & be a lifelong learner and a comBar. FSC helped launch the munity advocate. During restaurant by financially supretirement, Shelly is looking porting it with a $200,000 forward to learning Spanish as loan. The restaurant made a second language and providTripAdvisor’s top 20 best ing consulting services to small restaurants list for the area. businesses. She also is excited As Gross-Wade supported about traveling, celebrating her the community, she also 35th wedding anniversary, and attributed to FSC’s tremenspending quality time with her dous success. The number of The CEO of Financial Services Corporation, Shelly Gross Wade is joined by Prince George’s grandchildren. full-time employees grew County Executive Angela Alsobrooks in recognition of over 45 years of exemplary service, as Gross-Wade’s legacy at FCS Gross Wade announced her retirement. from one to thirteen. In addiis indelible. The CEO’s stantion, FSC pays approximately dards were high and her impact 10 professional consultants. The annual vided Gross-Wade and her team with $37 on the growth and devlopment of small and operating budget started at $135,000 and million worth of grants for the county. With start up businesses has influenced a generahas grown to approximately $2.5 million. other community partners including the tion of economic development in the counShelly attributes the organization’s most signif- Prince George’s County Economic ty. icant growth to the COVID-19 pandemic. Development Corporation, Bowie FSC helped businesses survive the financial Innovation Center, and several financial hardships created by the pandemic and avoid establishments, FSC provided multiple busiSince the announcement of her retirement, laying off employees. The banking company nesses, entrepreneurs, and contractors with the Board of Directors had not yet pivoted during COVID-19 and focused on $2,000-$3,000 grants. During the COVID- announced a new CEO. providing loans instead of grants. Prince 19 pandemic, 1,759 grants were awarded to By Chloe Redmond
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“Midgett Parker has been a consistent positive voice in the Prince George’s County Community for over 30 years. A trustworthy and respected counselor of law in business and commercial real estate.” –David C. Harrington, President & CEO, Prince George’s County Chamber of Commerce
Commercial Real Estate Acquisition, Land Use, and Zoning Law Business Entity Formation and Business Law
Major Construction Projects, Contracts, and Financing
Midgett S. Parker, P.A. The Law Office Of
Midgett S. Parker, Jr. began the practice of law upon admittance to the Maryland Bar in 1985. He developed and refined his legal acumen in commercial real estate and business law in Prince George’s County and other local jurisdictions in Maryland while in private practice in large law firms in the Washington metropolitan region. In February of 2020, he opened the Law Office of Midgett S. Parker, P.A.
Midgett has won numerous land use cases before local zoning officers, boards, commissions, and councils. On behalf of his clients he has worked with government officials at all levels of government on matters ranging from tax legislation to affordable housing and land use regulations. Midgett has the highest rating for strong legal ability and ethical standards (AV) in Martindale-Hubble peer review.
Midgett has developed a niche in representing commercial land owners, developers, houses of worship, and non-profit entities in all aspects of their real estate portfolio, development activities, and construction projects. In addition to land use, zoning, and real estate, he counsels clients on a broad range of issues from business concerns, financing, contract negotiations, and internal operations.
midgettparker-law.com 301-825-8600
5827 Allentown Road, Camp Springs, Maryland 20746 email: MidgettParker.Law@gmail.com
The Days Of Her Cap and Gown:
At 16, Alethea Roselyn Smith was a senior, graduating from Wantagh High School in Wantagh, LI, NY.
Journey
Rev. Alethea: Barrier Breaker, Survivor, Bridge Builder
By REVEREND DR. ALETHEA “ROZ” SMITH-WITHERS
I don’t remember the names or recognize the faces of those I went to school with from 8th grade through 12th grade. You see, my memory loss is directly connected to my experiences from integrating my junior high school and my high school. I remained the only Black student in my school until I graduated… Let me offer a little background for my story. During the years when I was in junior high and high school, my family was the first and the only Black in family Wantagh, a town in Long Island, NY. My parents chose to move from Brooklyn, NY to Wantagh (only 21 miles from Manhattan) because they wanted to live in the suburbs. My mother, Mary Jo – a registered nurse, was born and raised in Cynthiana, a small town in Kentucky. My father, George – a physician, was an immigrant from Spanish Town in Jamaica, WI. Their goals were simple – education and better opportunities for my younger sister, DeBorah, and me. They weren’t trying to break barriers or to be “pioneers.” On the surface, Wantagh was a dream come true – manicured lawns, low crime rates, and 24.
schools with high rankings. They didn’t suspect that de facto segregation was behind every shadow. Neither did they know that Nassau County, the county where we lived, boasted staggering Ku Klux Klan membership. Even though I don’t remember the names of fellow students, I’ll never forget that my first encounter with the subtle but painful impact of racism was on my first day at school in Wantagh. After homeroom, I went to my science class. The science teacher announced he
didn’t understand the purpose of his question. I was secretly waiting for a congratulatory “Good job!” or a similar expression of encouragement. Instead, my teacher’s suspicion was confusing and demoralizing, to say the least. In 9th grade, I recall how my American History teacher would pause and gaze at me whenever he uttered the word “slaves.” No doubt, he was suggesting that the legacy of slavery negatively defined who I was. But at thirteen, the teacher’s behavior left me feeling uncomfortable and marginalized. When I told my father how the teacher looked at me, the teacher’s motives were glaringly obvious to him. My Jamaican father was irate. He instructed me to go to class and confront the teacher’s ignorance with facts. My father said, “You must stand up and educate the teacher!” So, the next day I literally stood and gave a recitation naming 10 prominent African Americans beginning with Marcus Garvey. My dramatic classroom performance was met with stark silence. My teacher didn’t proffer a question or a comment. The following day, the lesson about slavery ended without explanation. Perhaps, the memory that stands out the most for me is when my home was vandalized. The
What the Bible means to me is that ALL children are to be protected from doors being shut in their faces, or being devalued, or rendered invisible!
was giving a test. I was terrified. Not knowing what the test was about, I said a silent prayer and then answered each question to the best of my ability. When the teacher handed back my completed test, he asked incredulously, “How did you get all the correct answers?” At 12 years old, I FALL/HOLIDAY 2022
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large picture window in the front of my home was shattered while my sister and I were home alone. Miraculously, we remained asleep through the entire episode (my father was out of the country and my mother worked the night shift at a local hospital). A few days after the vandalism, my mother convened a community meeting in our home. Members of the school board, police officers, and neighbors filled our living room and dining room – my mother wanted these people to see the damage to our home and reckon with the jeopardy her children were in. My sister and I peeked from the hallway as our 5-foot 2-inch mother made her case. For days thereafter, a police car was stationed in front of our home. All too often, when Black children are in the minority in their school, they are too young and emotionally ill equipped to identify or adequately convey the types of discrimination and bias they encounter. It’s amazing that so many Black children even survive the challenges they face in biased academic settings! It is imperative that the educational goal for Black children must be for them to thrive - and not just survive. Though none of my white classmates or teachers ever hurled racial epithets, I still suffered academic and social marginalization and faced incalculable psychological violence. In his 1952 literary classic, “Invisible Man,” the iconic Black novelist Ralph Ellison gave voice to the disillusionment of many Black Americans. Ellison describes what it’s like living in a white-dominated world when he wrote, “Oh, I am an invisible man, simply because people refuse to see me… To be unaware of one’s form is to live a death.” For me, Ellison’s words help to explain why I forgot most of my high school classmates. I wasn’t seen in Wantagh schools! I’ve learned that my amnesia was an adolescent coping
mechanism, a subconscious choice to forget the scorn that reduced me to an Invisible Girl. Thankfully, my friends who didn’t attend my school and my loving family were a divine hedge-of-protection. I was visible and seen by them. Jesus saw children and welcomed all of them. He didn’t render them invisible; he knew they came bearing gifts. The Gospel of Mark 10:13-16 says: And they were bringing children to Him so
behaviors that impact the lives of Black children and Black adolescents. Given the challenges I experienced when I was a vulnerable adolescent, I’m enormously blessed that the perils of racism didn’t hold me back. In fact, I believe that God used my circumstance of being the only Black student in Wantagh upper schools for 5 years and being the first Black graduate from Wantagh High School to prepare me to be a barrier-breaker and bridge-builder in my adult life. I was the premier clergywoman to serve as an Associate Minister at the historic Nineteenth Street Baptist Church in Washington, DC. With the congregation’s encouragement, I became one of the first women to be the founder of a Baptist church in Washington, DC that has thrived more than twenty years and is affiliated with the DC Baptist Convention. I was also the first Black woman to be the chair of the board of directors of the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice (RCRC), a national interfaith reproductive justice organization. In short, God’s Word has been a lamp for my feet and a light for my path. Above all, I thank God that I embrace a theology of liberation. Knowing Jesus as liberator anchors my soul to the truth that justice is more than a social mandate: justice is a divine imperative. Indeed, I believe there are divine whispers in the wind that alert all of us to a collective assignment to create equity and embrace justice in every generation. Black lives mattered in the 60s and Black lives must matter, today, particularly the lives of Black children – they are our future.
God used my circumstance to prepare me to be a barrier-breaker and bridge-builder in my adult life
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that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw this, He was indignant and said to them, ‘Permit the children to come to Me; do not hinder them; for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these’… And He took them in His arms and began blessing them, laying His hands on them. Yes! That’s what the Bible says, and what the Bible means to me is that ALL children are to be protected from doors being shut in their faces, or being devalued, or rendered invisible! In Wantagh schools, I should have been seen as a child of God and recognized as worthy of the kingdom of God and I should have been valued! The bottom line is that parents and educators must remain alert vis-à-vis racially motivated FALL/HOLIDAY 2022
Dr. Smith-Withers is the founder and pastor of the Pavilion of God Baptist Church in Washington, DC., www.PavilionofGodDC.org. She is also a pastoral counselor trained in Imago therapy. She has earned the Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry degrees from Howard University School of Divinity and was a Pew Foundation Urban Ministry Fellow. Dr. Smith-Withers serves as the National Chaplain for Alpha Pi Chi National Sorority, Inc. In addition, this woman of God is a wife, mother and grandmother.
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Our Tribute and Gratitude To David C. Harrington and Sheriff Melvin C. High and their families and all those Prince Georgians who gave so much of their lives to the support of others and the improvement of our county. They have given us the possibility of a better future 26.
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Personal s and Business Cred dit Cards
Ready To Serve
Governor Elect Wes Moore Holds Post Election Interview With Prince George’s Suite Magazine & Media
healthcare, transportation, civil rights, social justice, and criminal justice are all top of mind. You have spoken about diversity and inclusion. As a business owner, you may have experienced some of the disparities. What are three initiatives your administration will take to address this?
In Maryland, the average White family has eight times the wealth of the average Black family. The average Black worker makes 71 cents to the White worker’s dollar. We’re going to ensure every family in Maryland has access to affordable and quality child care, to support the disproportionate women and populations of color that are pushed out of the workforce due to lack of access. We’re also going to leverage Maryland’s world-class Historically Black Colleges and Universities as pipelines for opportunity. And, we’re going to expand Maryland’s apprenticeship programs to help underrepresented communities better access high-paying jobs of the future, positioning Maryland to meet the challenges of the tech, nursing, and manufacturing labor shortages You have been consistent in your messaging about Maryland capturing the moment to lead the way and be a model for the nation. What will this mean for Prince George’s County?
By Chloe Redmond Along the campaign trail, what are the most prevalent matters that residents brought to your attention?
Everywhere I travel I hear about our economy, our schools, and our public safety. As governor, I’ll fight everyday to boost our economy, fully fund our schools, and give our communities the resources they need to ensure their safety. Please note the top 10 matters/issues that your administration will address in your first 100 days as governor if elected.
Economy, education, public safety, women’s rights, environment,
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When I say I’m going to work to create a Maryland where no one is left behind, I mean no one. We need to ensure that everyone across Maryland is succeeding, whether you live in Prince George’s, Baltimore, or the Eastern Shore. A Moore-Miller Administration will fight for the success of everyone. In your analysis, what is the significance of being the state’s first black governor?
I’m not running to make history, I’m running to make child poverty history. While I recognize that this is certainly a momentous occasion, I am laser focused on providing Maryland families with the help they need by booster our economy, fully funding our schools, and making our communities safer.
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The 2022 Year In Review In Prince George’s County
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Banking On Princ
Industrial Bank President Doyle Mitchell joined Prince George’s Suite Magazine & Media in a Q&A just weeks after earning a key investment of the U.S. Treasury Department and just ahead of the bank’s significant 2023 expansion into the county’s Largo area. 1. You recently received a national recognition as one of the nation’s few black (minority) owned banks. Can you tell us what the award/grant will mean that Industrial will be able to do (impact) and why it’s important for people to understand the significance of black-owned banks?
Well, the funding we received from the US Treasury department is an equity investment. Treasury’s Emergency Capital Investment Program is designed to increase the capacity of minority and CDFI banks to lend in low and moderate income areas and to other targeted populations, namely black and brown individuals and businesses. It’s not a grant program. It’s important to understand the significance of black owned 30.
banks because pound for pound, we lend more of our assets to black and brown people than other banks do, large or small, in the country. If we have the ability to grow, then we can lend more and have a greater impact. This program provides our sector the capital needed to grow significantly. 2. While other black owned banks are fading, Industrial Bank is expanding and growing. Please can you explain how you have successfully navigated away from troubled waters and what you envision for the bank over the next ten years?
First, there hasn’t been a black bank failure for almost five years, but the key to remaining financially healthy is prudent lending and sound risk management. Over the next ten years, we envision more growth and a greater deployment of technology to improve the customer experience and increase efficiencies within our operations. 3. What are your projections for activity and growth in Largo?
We anticipate opening a new branch in 2023 at 96 Harry S Truman Drive in Largo. We plan to increase our lending in
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ce George’s
Prince George’s County, the DMV and in Newark, NJ and Harlem, NY, where we have other locations. 4. Why is it important to have black/minority owned banks today? What distinguishes them from other banks that millennials should understand when they are choosing their bank options?
We are important because of our lending record to minorities and because we understand the difficulties minorities have in accessing credit and why. It doesn’t mean we can make every loan, seeking to understand the story increases the chances to approve a loan that may be borderline. Everyone should understand that we are a company with a clear corporate and social focus; that while doing well (financially), we can do good at the same time. We recycle our money back into our community to assist in improving neighborhoods, financing affordable housing and community service facilities, and providing many options to educate different groups on the building blocks of wealth accumulation. PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
5. You give of your own time to aid others. Why is that important to you and your family?
It’s a core value we grew up on and it’s important for our company to reflect the same. All our employees invest in building our community on one level or another. Giving back should be an inherent human duty for all of us.
Doyle Mitchell
6. Your bank is a legacy that you have successfully taken up. What do you believe your parents might say to you today and what would you want them to know?
They would say, keep your feet on the ground, stay humble and continue to serve. As far as what I would want them to know, I believe they are watching and already see it.
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Advancing Economic Mobility— and Justice—in Prince George’s
Advertorial: The Community Foundation
“Despite its designation as one of the wealthiest majority Black jurisdictions in the country, Prince George’s has the lowest household income in the region, a sobering nod to Greater Washington’s significant and historic racial wealth gap.” By Jamie McCrary
Addressing our region’s economic inequality has become a leading priority for community leaders. Even before the Covid-19 pandemic, Greater Washington—home to nine of the 20 wealthiest counties in the U.S.—suffered some of the highest income inequalities in the nation. Prince George’s County, Maryland, is no exception. Despite its designation as one of the wealthiest majority Black jurisdictions in the country, Prince George’s has the lowest household income in the region, a sobering nod to Greater Washington’s significant and historic racial wealth gap. Throughout the region, many philanthropic organizations have pivoted their focus to address these stark disparities. For The Community Foundation, this means continuing to partner with local nonprofits driving economic justice—and reimagining the organization’s strategy to build racially equitable, just, and thriving communities where everyone prospers.
“Low-income residents and communities of color have paid dearly due to lack of investment advancing economic justice,” says Darcelle Wilson, Senior Director for Prince George’s County at The Community Foundation. “Every community and person, no matter their socio-economic status, is better off when we take strategic action to close the racial wealth gap.” A Vision for Equity
In 2021, The Community Foundation finalized its new, 10-year strategic vision to pursue economic justice for Greater Washington. 32.
Centered on three core pillars—leading with racial equity and inclusion, aligning its business with its vision, and closing the racial wealth gap—the framework envisions our region as a place where people of all races, places, and identities reach their full potential. “Our region’s biggest challenges stem from economic injustice, the root cause of persist-
George’s, a program which convenes donors to learn about community needs and invest in promising solutions, or the Equity Fund, which invests in nonprofits working to eliminate disparities, The Community Foundation is turning its vision for equity into action. In 2021, The Community Foundation’s Prince George’s County office awarded more than $3.8 million in grants to 100+ nonprofits, building on their existing $50 million of investments in nonprofits serving county residents. Empowering Prince George’s Families and Communities
ent inequities exacerbated by the pandemic,” says Tonia Wellons, President and CEO of The Community Foundation. “[We] imagine a region that has moved beyond simply surviving to becoming a welcoming and inclusive place where we all prosper.” In Prince George’s County, The Community Foundation’s pursuit of justice is prescient throughout its programs and partnerships— some longstanding, others newly established. Through initiatives like Sharing Prince FALL/HOLIDAY 2022
The organization’s pursuit of economic justice began long before finalizing its equity-driven vision. The Community Foundation has long partnered with organizations in Prince George’s County to fight poverty, unemployment, and other barriers to prosperity for more than 20 years, including Capitol Heights-based nonprofit United Communities Against Poverty (UCAP). A respite service provider, UCAP serves lowincome residents negatively impacted by poverty, homelessness, crime, and other adverse social situations. Through initiatives like the Family Stabilization Program (FSP)—a homelessness shelter transition program that The Community Foundation helped seed in 2013—UCAP is helping empower Prince George’s families toward equitable economic stability. A 12-24 month program, FSP provides supportive case management to families experiencing homelessness in Prince George’s County and transitioning out of UCAP’s shelter. Families are paired with a caseworker PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
to ensure continued access to shelter services and receive a bank account and starter stipend, once they complete a financial literacy class. “The Community Foundation affords the opportunity to create solutions to our community’s environmental and socioeconomic challenges,” says Rasheeda Jamison, President and CEO of UCAP. “This support has allowed us to grow and expand our reach by making sure programs like FSP meet residents’ needs.” Since the program’s inception, The Community Foundation has invested in case worker salaries, administrative fees, and stipends, helping assist more than 700 Prince George’s families. “It’s been phenomenal to see so many people come together to make sure individuals who need help receive services,” Jamison says. “This is the foundation of a strong community.”
Catalyzing Action Through Philanthropy Partnering with high-impact nonprofits like UCAP is just one way the Community Foundation is pursuing justice. The organization is also investing in growing strong philanthropic connections, particularly with younger generations through its Emerging Leaders Impact Fund (ELIF). ELIF, a giving circle for young philanthropists in Prince George’s County, convenes next gen donors to raise awareness and catalyze action around key societal issues. Members, typically aged 45 and under, pool their resources to invest in programs to advance residents’ economic mobility. ELIF members also attend a series of learning events throughout the year, helping ensure participants stay attuned to community needs and that they are learning about the fundamentals of effective and strategic giving. “The Emerging Leaders Impact Fund is about the future,” says ELIF chair Davion Percy. “Not only the future of Prince George’s PRINCE PRINCEGEORGE’S GEORGE’SSUITE SUITEMAGAZINE MAGAZINE
County, but our community’s future leaders.” The first cohort completed their inaugural grant round last fall, investing nearly $12,000 in five Prince George’s County nonprofits combatting chronic absenteeism in schools— a barrier to both educational and economic advancement. As the Community Foundation continues to pursue its vision for justice, its Prince George’s County team is also driving impact through new partnerships, programs, and investments. Recent partnership initiatives include the County Executive Office’s Hope in Action Anti-Violence Project, a cross-sector violence prevention initiative; and the new Faith and Philanthropy Project, a partnership with the faith community which helps ensure longFALL/HOLIDAY SUMMER 20222022
term institutional sustainability and impact. Whatever the medium, The Community Foundation wants to ensure all Prince Georgians are afforded equal economic opportunity—and, in time, the region’s racial wealth gap is a painful reality of the past. “By widening the pool of economic development opportunities to a more diverse set of participants, we take steps toward closing the racial wealth gap,”Wellons says. “Together, we can build a more just and equitable community.”
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Fields Of Fu By Raoul Dennis with Brittney Gordon PHOTOGRAPHY: RAOUL DENNIS AND AMIR STOUDAMIRE
While people across the nation sat at the edge of their seats screaming at their TVs during the 2022 FIFA World Cup Competition, thousands across the Washington, D.C. metro area envisioned their own children one day playing in the games within the next two decades. Many of them already know that it’s a dream several steps closer to fruition because magnetic North of field sports competition just shifted to the DMV in the form of a new state-ofthe-art, tournament ready outdoor complex known as Liberty Sports Park. **** It was a Saturday in the sun in early October. The weather was just over 70 degrees – as more than 1,600 people, including 300 girls on lacrosse teams from across the region battle through the heat of competition. They fight for the win, for the team – and for their parents and families who are watching on the sidelines. The scoreboard matters. But for these young athletes and their families, the final score isn’t the only thing that counts. The field itself is also a matter of personal pride. It’s brandnew turf with field markings so fresh the paint doesn’t yet chafe on uniforms. The commute to get to Liberty Sports Park cut the drive time of the average family to travel to a tournament at this level by an average of 2.5 hours. And although participants had to walk through an unfinished parking lot with dirt and gravel beneath their sandaled feet, they know that in another month that same lot will be paved and lit for night action. There will be concession stands, restaurants and merchandising shops replacing most of the portable restrooms and loose gravel currently at the new venue. Most patrons know this is just the beginning: the thirst for a sprawling sports complex with social, residential and hotel stay options note that even with the 10 fields planned, 10 more could easily have been added to the vision. Liberty Sports Park is currently booked through the middle of 2023 and by January, the entire year could be under contract. Already, the adjacent South Lake complex has attracted interest from over 700 potential residents – and the property hasn’t opened yet. It’s a moment almost ten years in the making, but Upper Marlboro’s Liberty Sports Park officially opened for business on October 23rd, billed as the midAtlantic’s premier sports vacation destination. That said, this ten-field athletic facility is much more than just a place to play sports. It will be an oasis for regional and national youth sports events and competitions. It will be the goto outdoor venue for student athletes after school and weekends. And it will grow to become a destination location for sports, entertainment and travel enthusiasts. “Having what’s going to be the crown jewel of soccer fields and complexes in our area [located] in Prince George’s County is going to be a major feather in the cap for this county,” says Patrick Noel, director of operations and coach 34.
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uture Dreams New $18 Million Sports Complex Becomes The Latest Step In Growing County As A High End Destination Location PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
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for the Maryland United Soccer Club. The park will have 10 lit fields, 6 turf fields and 4 grass fields on over 50 acres. The park and its adjacent destination South Lake are projected to create over 500 jobs and over $50 million in annual spending. At an overall cost of $18 million, the potential return on investment set the spark that let former Maryland State Senator Douglas J.J. Peters know that he was on the right track with his vision for the park. According to a 2014 study, “On-going activities at the proposed new Sports Complex are estimated to generate between $31 million and $34 million annually in incremental new direct spending to the County of which approximately $17 million to $19 million would be incremental new to the State.” “I felt like saying, ‘I knew it,’” Peters says
Prince George’s Boulevard in Upper Marlboro, Liberty Sports Park is a multi-field sports complex that will host youth and adult sporting events from soccer, lacrosse and football games to ultimate frisbee, and just about everything in between. Athletes from all across Maryland and along the east coast are already flocking to the park to take advantage of what is being described as one of the most soughtafter sporting facilities in the region. Thomas H. Graham chairs The Green Branch Foundation board. The retired Pepco President and former professional soccer player may have thought that after coaching at Georgetown University, his athletic days were behind him. But that was before Doug Peters called him in one night in 2017 and introduced him to his vision for Liberty Park. As he got ready to host the opening day celebra-
Michael and Graham share their expectations for Liberty at the opening.
today of the moment he read the data that reinforced his gut feeling. “It was just another level of motivation to get it done. I knew I was on the right track. Now, I felt like I’ve got to push the gas pedal.” The Opening The park officially opened with a kickoff celebration on October 23rd, bringing together a host of public and private stakeholders who worked together to bring this dream to fruition. Located on 55 acres of land on 36.
tion of the park Graham donned his University of Tampa Hall of Fame jacket. “It literally took a village to get to this point,” Graham said of the four opened fields and those coming. “We had every alphabet working in the Prince George’s County government, and we needed the state, the partnership with the council, the County Executive's office, and then a lot of hard work from some people over at Park and Planning to really get our design together [in order to] get the best park that we could possibly have.” The event was populated by a small but influFALL/HOLIDAY 2022
ential who’s who group of regional and state VIPs. In some ways the gathering was a reunion of contributors who had been looking forward to this day since 2014 – and the groundbreaking in 2017. “We're so happy to have this project completed for a variety of reasons,” said Tara Jackson, a spokesperson for County Executive Angela Alsobrooks. “One of them, of course, is that we're going to bring people to the county, and of course, that is a priority for the county executive's economic development. We're excited about the thousands and thousands of people that we're going to bring to Prince George's County because of Liberty Sports Park.” Jackson continued: “The second is, I'm excited that we have a premiere sports park here in Prince George's County, and it really is about not only the people that come to our county but the children that live in our county and being able to give them an opportunity that they may otherwise not have had.” The sponsors of the park include the state of Maryland, The Washington Commanders, The Truist Foundation, Prince George’s County Government and a host of others. But there were mentions by some of the speakers that were pearls.
“It’s always tough to do something new when you’re so used to doing different things [in a similar way],” said former District 4 County Councilmember Todd Turner. Turner was third in a line of four District 4 councilmembers (including Ingrid Turner and today’s Ingrid Scott Harrison) that passed the baton starting with Peters. “This one, this was a new way of operating,” Turner said referring to the daily operations of the park being managed by an outside not-for-profit. “We have an awardwinning Park and Recreation department here in Prince George's County. They're very proud of the work that they do, but this is unique in that we have a not-for-profit [organization] that's coming in to manage the fields, working with the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, who will be using the PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
fields a majority of the time, for residents here in Prince George's County, in addition to bringing others into this county.” The Green Branch Management Group Corp. is a community-based, non-profit organization in Prince George’s County, will manage it. Scott Morrison, president of the Green Branch Management Group, will lead the daily operations. A seasoned sales professional, Morrison took a pay cut to take on this position, for him a dream job. Morrison, who coached lacrosse at DeMatha for 14 years, is ready for the challenge. “Handling a staff of eight people and a product of ‘10 fields’ is something that I'm super excited about. I've surrounded myself with the right people, not just at the board of directors' level, but certainly at the field and the ground level.” He says development is moving along more efficiently now that COVID-19 isn’t a supply drag. “Right now, we have two grass fields completely in and laid. Obviously, all six turf fields are done,” he said in October. “Six turf fields are done, two are completely laid. We will have the other two and a half fields done in Spring 20 23.” Morrison believes the public-private approach to the park will give Liberty the flexibility it needs to draw in maximum revenues PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
while tying the destination to the best opportunities to work with the state and county at all levels. “I believe that's the best model,” he says. “That's the model that was given to us through the Maryland Stadium Authority. The public-private partnership was the model that was suggested. We're trying to follow that model to a T where everybody wins.”
said, ‘all right, Brad. We’ll go.’” “When we arrived at the lacrosse tournament, I saw that it was just a field that a farmer had plowed and there was nowhere to eat,” Peters recalls as he stepped out of his car and into the mud. It only got worse. “The hotel was 40 minutes away.” Looking upward as if searching for the sense of it, the former senator continued: “No restaurants, no food, no nothing - just a farm.
“We’re excited about the thousands of people that we’re going to bring to Prince George’s County because of Liberty Sports Park,” said Tara Jackson, a spokesperson for County Executive Angela Alsobrooks Where It Started Flashback to 2012. Then a County Councilmember, Peters found himself driving to North Carolina with his son Brad to be scouted by college recruiters. “My son Brad played lacrosse for DeMatha and kept saying ‘Dad, I was invited to a major lacrosse tryout! D1 coaches will be there and I need them to see what I can do in the goal. I FALL/HOLIDAY 2022
Somebody just decided ‘I'm gonna clear my land and make four fields and rent them for a bunch of money. I took my car, drove up there and I got stuck in the mud for an hour.” The trip was a success: Brad was eventually recruited by a number of schools he played in front of that day (although he later decided to play goalie for Brown Lacrosse). More importantly, an idea began to form with the county 37.
councilman after they returned home. Peters called Scott Morrison, who was at DeMatha at the time, and proceeded to burn a second hole in his ear with the vision. “Why couldn't we have a first-class facility here in Prince George's County when we have some of the greatest athletes in the nation coming from here? We don’t have the facilities. Why not??”
In 2012, Sen. Douglas J.J. Peters asked, “Why couldn’t we have a first-class outdoor sports venue in Prince George’s County when we have some of the greatest athletes in the nation coming from here? We don’t have the facilities. Why not??” The Makings Of A Home Team The 1977 release of “Star Wars” presented a classic story wrapped in a sci-fi format with high tech special effects that forever changed the way the world experienced sci-fi movies. But it was the classic cast of characters and story that made the film resonate with audiences of all kinds – something that director George Lucas maintained throughout his illustrious career.
In the story, a handful of personalities are unwittingly strewn together to become the heart and soul of a movement larger than themselves. In the process, the audience connects with them–and their struggle. It’s an old formula: from “The Hobbit” to “The Wizard of Oz” to “The Avengers.” The creative evolution of Liberty Sports Park is no different. It started with then County Councilman Douglas J.J. Peters. “When I was on the county council, each of the council members had some seed money which we could use for projects in our district from Park and Planning,” Peters explains of the original idea of a development behind Rips Diner near Bowie Baysox Stadium known as Green Branch. But after environmental challenges were revealed and the 2014 Market Study illuminated the financial potential, Peters, by this point a senator, began to dream bigger. “I continued to raise money for the project because by then we decided to make it a multi-field project rather than a baseball project because we were going to move it away from Baysox stadium. I was able to work with the county and I looked it up because in the Senate, I had the experience of the county council and I was able to get the list of surplus properties that could not be developed in the county.” “We had a couple of million bucks, which sounds like a lot, but it’s not a lot to complete [this type of] facility. So, we went to work continuing to raise money and grow it a step at a time,” Peters says of the wouldbe seed monies he had at his disposal as councilmember at the time. “I would get $1 million dollars one year, get $2 million the next. Every year I was just getting money in the budget and kept moving forward with planning and engineering,” he said. Convinced the idea had potential, Peters and Morrison pulled Jeff
Aerial photo of Liberty Sports Park taken by drone of six completed fields. There will be ten fields when it’s completed. PHOTO: NAI MICHAEL COS. 38. 38.
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Flaig onto the team. Morrison and Flaig went back together as far as
high school where they were lacrosse teammates. Both former athletes, teammates and lifelong sports enthusiasts, they joined Green Branch, each bringing over 30 years of sports and business development to the table. Like Morrison, Flaig had a passion for Lacrosse that bordered on the spiritual and years of high level playing and coaching experience. Flaig’s official role as board treasurer was fulfilled, but it paled in comparison to what he brought to the table. For Flaig, the project was similar to being asked to be part of the Academy at the Oscars or the NFL’s executive team during Superbowl Week. “Oh my gosh, he was so excited to be included in the endeavor from the very beginning because it was just an idea, it was a concept for so long, and he just kept saying, ‘We'll break ground next year. And then it was next year. And then next year.’ It was a long wait, but he was so proud of the progress that they were making and just excited about the opportunity to be involved in the whole project,” says Terry Flaig, Jeff ’s wife of 32 years. After decades of love for athletic competition and discipline of sport, specifically, lacrosse, Liberty was Flaig’s legacy work [see“The Flaig Effect,” Page 44]. In 2015, Gary Michael, President and CEO of NAI Michael Companies brought two winning aspects to the deal: solid construction experience and South Lake. “We had a champion in the Michael Companies who knew the construction side and would help us with bringing large crowds, restaurants, shopping and hotels,” Peters says.
Introducing South Lake South Lake is the planned mixed-use community co-located with Liberty Park, which will offer student athletes, their families and college recruiters something that no other sporting facility in the DMV area provides—the opportunity to play, eat and sleep all within steps of the sporting fields. South Lake will boast 381 acres of mixed-use space, 1,600 homes and 600,000 square feet of commercial retail space. Athletes and their families will be able to leave the field and walk directly to restaurants and hotels, a convenience factor that developers are betting on for success. The combination of Liberty Park’s state of the art fields and South Lake’s amenities creates the perfect combination to 40.
lure the 300,000 visitors that developers expect to see annually—and the significant dollars they will bring to the county. The Liberty Sports Park facility and South Lake amenities are projected to create over 500 jobs and more than $50 million in annual spending. Peters liked the additional value South Lake added to Liberty. Michael appreciated the projections---and the residual effects for upcoming generations of Prince Georgians. “We were shown the market study that the Maryland Stadium Authority produced, and it convinced us that this can really be an impactful thing for both the youth in the county and the economic development of Prince George's County. It was a twofer,” Michael says. “But that study really convinced us that we're going to have hundreds of thousands of people coming to visit here and our kids will benefit from not having to travel, and also having some of these major college scouts here in our hometown looking at our kids.” NAI Michael Companies is a longstanding anchor company in the county’s economic growth and identity. A true corporate good neighbor, the Michael Companies has been a source for jobs, community support and educational development for some five decades. “Over 50 years, we've done a lot of different things,” Michael replied when asked if the company had worked on a project similar to Liberty – South Lake in the past. “We developed the Ammendale Business Campus, which is a 400-acre business park. It's been a real success and something we're really proud of. The shopping centers that we've done have added retail opportunities for the County and created jobs and tax revenue for the County. It is important to us. This is right now one of our bigger things and something that we want to get right. We’ve got one opportunity to do a really good job, and we’re going to put all of our energy into doing that, making it happen.” Michael demographically envisions South Lake as a cross section of the county, from first time homeowners and family homes to empty nesters and seniors. Residents will appreciate the walkable nature of the location and will likely be sports and wellness enthusiasts themselves. “We're all across the board in terms of the product that we're going to have. We'll have from apartments and condominiums that are for starter families or singles to single-family homes that could sell for a million bucks,” he says. “It’s going to run the gamut.” Michael continues: “I do think that what we have is a walkable community. It's going to be people who have a health wellness kind of a bent to them. Maybe the sports thing is a huge attraction [for South Lake]. If you had kids involved in sports, they can walk down to the fields for their practice, and they can walk to see the games on the weekends. I think that the community will be a cross section of the county. I think that it'll probably have an orientation toward people who want to get out and walk, people who want to exercise, who are interested in sports. That would be my sense.” This Magnetic Moment Acquiring the funding was the last big hurdle. “I was able to secure the balance of the funds, the $14 million from the state to get it all constructed,” Peters said. According to the former statesman, when the time came to put the
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“Our purpose at Truist is to inspire and build better lives and communities. We live up to our purpose by making sure we are supporting the positive development and growth of the county.”
–Truist Bank Senior Vice President – Market President Bernita Bailey
Liberty’s Leaders (l-r)
Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks; former Sen. Doug J.J. Peters with his wife Corinne, daughter Natalie and son-in-law Chandler; NAI Michael Companies President & CEO Gary Michael and Green Branch Management Chair Tom Graham in his photo and trophy room and posed with his Hall of Fame ring.
reins in the hands of someone who could complete the vision, it had to be Tom Graham. Graham checked all the boxes: executive level leadership as former Pepco president, an award-winning athlete, now in the Hall of Fame at his alma mater, the University of Tampa, community leadership experience and relationships, and sheer charisma. “It all really came together and it was a vision I had,” Peters says of Graham as the board chair. “I was an architect for awhile and then I was able to turn it over to Tom, and Tom took it to the finish line. I took it from Alpha to Tau. Tom took it to Omega.” Graham says the need for Liberty was immediately clear to him. “I grew up on the playground and playing on dirt and rocks,” 42.
says Graham whose soccer skills as a youth earned him academic opportunities. “The first time I really played on a nice field was probably in college. I coached at Georgetown University for 19 years. I knew that there was a tremendous need for quality facilities in the DMV area.” Truist Bank was among the first financial institutions to step in. “We’re a very proud supporter of the Liberty Sports Park through a grant to Greenbranch Management non-profit from the Truist Foundation,” says Truist Bank Senior Vice President – Market President Bernita Bailey. Bailey, a lifelong resident of Prince George’s County, wasn’t always a bank professional. “I remember as a child having to travel to the next county over in order to do FALL/HOLIDAY 2022
the sport I loved because at that time there wasn’t a gymnastics facility in the county. Through the hard work and dedication of our county leaders and the business community, Prince George’s now has state of the art facilities to support our kids.” She says Truist aims to be a solution-oriented corporate neighbor in Prince George’s. “Our purpose at Truist is to inspire and build better lives and communities and we live up to our purpose by making sure we are supporting the positive development and growth of the county. Through direct grants from the Truist Foundation to nonprofit organizations, we can give our communities the opportunity to succeed. We are a very proud supporter of the Liberty Sports Park through a grant to Greenbranch Management non-profit from the Truist Foundation.” Other sponsors include The Washington Commanders, NAI Michael Companies, St. John Properties, Bush Construction, Pepsi Cos. and Oak Hill Strategies.
Equity And Access Goals “One thing I hadn't talked about was how important the MBE minority part of this project was to us,” Peters says. “I made sure that we kept in touch with Bowie State University. They're a partner in this and they’ve been at every function. On the turf CONTINUED ON PAGE 46
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The Flaig Effect Jeffrey John Flaig April 30, 1964 - October 16, 2022
Passionate, Dedicated Leader Helped Create Liberty Sports Park By Raoul Dennis
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Jeff Flaig was one of those people who saw the glass half full at all times - even if it was bone dry empty. If you were surrounded by the enemy, you’d want him in a foxhole with you. If your team was down 30 points, you’d want him on your bench: he always believed there was a way to win. “Coach Flaig was hands down the best coach I ever had,” said Luke Matanin, a former student athlete who played lacrosse under Flaig. “I followed and learned [from] coach from elementary to High School. Every player knew each other’s strengths and weaknesses and how to work together to make it happen. He taught us boys how to be men, yet always coached with compassion. He has had an impact on so many lives and I can only aspire to do the same.” “Liberty Sports Park was the first thing he talked about in the morning, and it was the last thing that he talked about before he went to bed,” says Terry Flaig of her husband, Jeff. “Jeff was a complete sports enthusiast. He loved all sports. He grew up playing sports. He coached our son growing up. He was just very involved. He played lacrosse in college and was always very sports minded. This gave him that outlet to be involved in youth sports and be a part of something that was really, truly going to be big. He would say, ‘This is progress. Can’t you see it? This is where this is going to be and this is field number two, and this is going to be field number three.’ He was so excited, dedicated and hard working with this project. It was his dream. ” Liberty was the Sistine Chapel to Flaig’s Michelangelo spirit. And it was the chance to work with other sports lovers he’d known since his high school and college days - particularly his friend, Scott Morrison. “I’ve been coaching young men for a long time,” Morrison says. He and Flaig met in elementary school, competed on some of the same teams since high school and had shared values. “At the end of the day, the value is in kids getting to be on the field and just keeping them on the right track. There’s no debating the value of team sports and the lessons learned from that. It’s what keeps me motivated. You can’t put a dollar value on that. It’s immeasurable.” When he came into the project in 2015, Jeff saw the opportunity to work on a project that reflected his life’s enthusiasm for sports – particularly lacrosse.
“My dad always had an interest in team games. He played in college at UMBC and just had a great time with a lot of his teammates. He loved football, he loved basketball. But he especially loved lacrosse,” says Jeff’s son Carter. The younger Flaig believes his dad’s passion for competition was derived, in part, from his childhood days battling and overcoming cancer. “He always wanted to compete and to lay it all out there. Carpe diem. He would say that a lot: ‘Seize the Day.’ He went through so much – having cancer as a kid. This is just how I make sense of things in terms of what might have sparked that sense of drive and competition in him.” Jeff and Terry met at The University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). “We met in college, and started dating probably when we were 21, and married five years later in 1990,”Terry says of the 32 years of their marriage. The family settled in Maryland once Carter was born. And although Jeff ’s day to day job didn’t include sports, he coached Carter’s lacrosse team---and maintained a deep passion for teaching the fundamentals of sportsmanship, teamwork, planning and humility. “There’s this one time where he was my coach and I was having a pretty good game,” Carter recalls. “I had a couple of assists and in the middle of the game. I called everyone to my dad and I was saying, ‘hey dad, I have a bunch of assists!’ He put that down so fast! He gave me this look that said: ‘Congratulations but you’re making this about yourself. This is not the time nor the place to celebrate that. We’re in the middle of a game. Knock it off ’.” “He was really humble, and he taught me humility and he would never seek attention. He’d go out and do the thing and let other people give him that love.” Carter says. Flaig saw sports far beyond the scoreboard. He saw the field as a character-building platform for young people. Building Liberty—being a part of Liberty---became an extension of many of the ideals he believed in. “Every time I was out here, I would see Scott and I would see Jeff just walking the fields just to make sure this [opening] day would eventually happen,” says board chair Tom Graham of Flaig who still held a day job at the time. “I can remember early on when they came and broke ground and the tractors were there moving dirt. He was just beyond excited that it was actually really happening,” Terry says. She also recalls his anxiety: “One of the worst days was a couple of days before
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the fields were done. They were doing a soft opening and it rained, so The Flaig family, Terry, Carter, the guys that were doing the parking lots couldn’t lay the asphalt for the and Jeff. parking lots. He was just stressed that the parking lots would not be finished in time. I just was like, ‘People can park on the dirt.’ [But] he just wanted everything to be perfect. He was upset that the asphalt wasn’t going to be done in time.” For years, Jeff Flaig poured over the details of bringing the park to life. Contributing his expertise balanced against the learning curve of managing construction issues, political curve balls in processing and even COVID-19. Retiring from his day job months before the park opened, he looked forward to the revenue streams Liberty would bring in the years to come. Instead, it was cancer that darkened the Flaig home. He died on Sunday, Oct. 16---the day of the soft opening at Liberty. It was the same day Jeff ’s nephew, Reed Herbert, 16, and his Mount St. Joseph lacrosse team played in the park’s first tournament. The Flaigs attended just hours after Jeff took his last breath–just as he wanted them to do. “I don’t think people knew he had been sick for a really long time,” Terry says. “He had battled cancer in high school and was a survivor. He just had an amazing work ethic. He was loyal. He was loyal to the guys that he worked with; he was loyal to the project. I think that made everybody around him just more inspired to do better and be better.”
**************************** “Your husband was well respected and known to have a tremendous work ethic,” said Tara Jackson, a spokesperson for County Executive Angela Alsobrooks at the Liberty opening “He will be remembered [for] many things [among them] for his service to this community and for his contributions to the development of Liberty Sports Park. Our county, the state and region have lost a legend and a man who dedicated his life in service to others. May the legacy of his work be forever etched in the history of our state, and may it serve as an inspiration to others.” On the day he passed away, Jeff Flaig’s nephew, Reed, helped his team with an assist. “We all smiled,”Terry says. “It was classic Jeff.” After the game, the perfect weather and coming sunset over an emotionally charged day led Terry to suggest stopping at the marina on the way home: to close out the day and to “toast Jeff with a couple of our closest family and friends.” She expected about 15 people. Instead Terry walked in the door to a spontaneous gathering of some 100 people at the marina because they heard she and Carter would be there. “We have only lived in this neighborhood a couple of years,”Terry said as people had begun hitting golf balls off the marina’s pier and raising glasses in Jeff’s honor. “We just started knowing people here. But that’s Jeff. Once people met him, that’s the way it would be. All these people, spontaneously coming out on a Sunday evening. That’s the effect he had on people.” PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
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Tom Graham and former Senator Douglas J.J.Peters at the grand opening.
and the major expenditures, we required MBE participation. There is a whole part of the shopping area retail that the Michael Companies has committed to have MBEs work with ownership, equity and real money [opportunities],” he explains. The career public servant says minority business equity was a top priority on the project. Regarding access, during weekdays from three to five p.m. the public school system will also have the opportunity to use the facility at no fee. “The unique thing about our partnership is 25% of our net proceeds, we donate back to the community to support some other non-profit,” Graham says. “Whether it be programming for kids, whether it be STEM, whatever that might be, whatever we decide it's going to be, but 25% of the net proceeds go back into our community.” “We're going to do a lot of fundraising as well.,” he continues. “We have some good sponsors. And I can't say enough about Gary Michael and the Michael companies. Their contribution as a development consultant at no fee has been extraordinarily important to the success of the project.” Liberty will also partner with neighboring Bowie State University through an internship program funded, in part, by the grant from the Truist Foundation.
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Evolve As An Entertainment Destination Since 2000, particularly with the groundbreaking at National Harbor (2005), there has been a slow but steady walk by county leaders and developers strengthening Prince George’s as an entertainment destination – arguably the playground of the DMV. Certainly, Six Flags, in Bowie since 1974 and Jack Kent Cooke Stadium (now FedEx Field), here since 1997, along with scores of historic and cultural venues are part of the county’s established social and entertainment fabric. But things are growing quickly: The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center at the University of Maryland (2001), Bowie State University opened its new Performing Arts Center (2012), MGM National Harbor (2016), The Culinary Arts Center at Prince George’s Community College (2018), The Center for the Performing Arts at Prince George’s Community College (2019). As COVID-19 takes a back seat to reopening, Parks and Recreation and the County Executive’s office push forward with soon-tocome projects that include renovations at the Publick Playhouse and a new arts amphitheater and “downtown” Largo. Liberty Sports Park and South Lake will contribute to the destination landscape of the county. NFL veteran Derrick Fenner, a Marylander who played for the Seattle Seahawks and FALL/HOLIDAY 2022
“If [Liberty] was around when I was a kid, I’d have been a better player. I’d be healthier now because my legs wouldn’t be all screwed up from playing on the wrong kind of field condition. It would have been such an inspiration for me.”
–NFL veteran Derrick Fenner
attended Oxon Hill High School, praised Liberty’s advent. “Man, if this were around when I was a kid, one, I'd have been a better player. Two, I'd be healthier now because my legs wouldn't be all screwed up from playing on the wrong kind of field condition.” “It would have been such an inspiration for me," he continued. “If one of these kids who's playing brings their friends out to the field and they see this place, they're going to be like, ‘Wow, man, this is the big time.” There are moments when locales begin to evolve far beyond their original aspirations. The County is no longer a sidekick to the nation’s capital, but a destination spot curated on its own terms. “Absolutely,” Peters says embracing the notion that the county is evolving into a social, political, and economic driver in the region. “This is another destination particularly focused around athletics,” he said referring to Liberty. “You go to National Harbor, you go to Largo, which is becoming a downtown hub -- the council's there, the exec's there, the hospital's there. Each area is becoming its own defined destination. Liberty Sports Park will be the athletic center of the county.” PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
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Safe Haven
The Long Term Goal To Create A Based Public Safety Corridor Has By Brian Burden
“It’s a game-changer.” That’s how Fire Chief for Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department Tiffany Green described the new PGFD Fire Station 802-Shady Glen, located in Capitol Heights. The station opened in June and serves Capitol Heights, District Heights, Peppermill Village, Seat Pleasant, Walker Mill and the unincorporated areas of both Bowie and Upper Marlboro, allowing for faster response times to residents in those communities. It also features a health and wellness facility that includes a personal 48.
trainer for firefighters and paramedics. After having to go outside the area for several years, candidates will now be able to take their Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) on site. “This is a project about six years in the making and we wanted to focus on the health and fitness of our providers,” Green said. “I feel tremendous pride. We have over 900 firefighters and EMTs/paramedics, along with 1,000 volunteers.” The fire station, along with the new University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center in Largo, represent ongoing development of a public safety corridor that has been 20 years in the making in Prince
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A State Of The Art, Centrallys Come To Prince George’s George’s County. “We are happy that it is all coming together,” said Ronald D. Lipford (AIA), founder of Arel Architects Inc. in Temple Hills. Arel was the firm that designed the fire house. “There is the new Prince George’s Hospital (University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center) and the six-story Health and Human Services county building,” Lipford said. “And the new fire station. There are a number of office buildings being established there to support the medical community. It will be a feeder for the spine the leads into the District of Columbia. And with those types of services so PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
close to the inner beltway, it will also radiate to those communities.” These services will provide overlapping support. “The new University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center is outstanding. It is located in the center of the county, which is great for us,” Green said. “We are 100% appreciative.” Eugene Grant, the former mayor of Seat Pleasant, wants to see investment and equitable development as part of the region’s next steps. “Investment was long overdue,” Grant said. “Those buildings are important, but what we really need now is more affordable housing near metro stations. We need investment that is inclusive, and that
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includes minority and women-owned businesses and veteran-owned businesses. Quality of life stuff. There simply needs to be grocery stores to get quality food products and access to affordable health care.” M.H. Jim Estepp, former Prince George’s County Fire Chief and former county councilmember grew up in the area. “When I was a kid growing up in the Seat Pleasant area of the County, we had little public transportation, one hospital, in Cheverly, no recreational facilities, no McDonalds, no shopping Malls and no consolidated medical services buildings. The concept of a Public Safety Corridor to serve that part of the county is indicative of growth and progress in an area that had been chronically underserved over the years.” Today, Estepp is president and CEO of the Greater Prince George’s Business Roundtable. “I dreamed then that someday things would change. Phasing in Public Safety and medical facilities along with a world class hospital, Cancer Treatment Center; housing, (high and moderately priced); a new Fire/EMS Station and much more does my heart good and makes a youth's dream actually come true.” Lipford feels confident those next development steps are taking place. “There will be more dense and vertical growth. This is the next natural place for 5-6-story apartments and condos to sprout up. People will work on the ground floor and then take an elevator up to their apartment,” Lipford said. “It will be similar to what we see on Route 1 in College Park and in the District, where they have mastered mixed-use development. Next will be more retail and dining. That’s what we will start to see here. Building permits with new zoning are now being applied. That allows more than we have seen before.” For Green, a Prince George’s County native who has served with the PGFD since 1995, these new buildings, as well as the region’s overall development the past 20 years, are positive foundations to build on. “It gives me a great sense of pride. I enjoy serving the community, but I am from here as well,” Green said. “I have seen the growth and investment administrators are making into new buildings and seen investment and tax dollars at work. I’m excited to see how everything continues to look over the next few years.” 50.
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“Investment was long overdue,” Grant said. “Those buildings are important, but what we really need now is more affordable housing near metro stations.” –Former Mayor Eugene Grant
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SHADY GLEN FIRE STATION 802 & CPAT FITNESS AND WELLNESS CENTER
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SEAT PLEASANT CITY HALL & PUBLIC WORKS
REVITALIZATION PLAN AREA BUILDING SECTORS NEIGHBORHOOD BOUN U DARY 1/2 MILE 10 MINUT TE WALK INTERSTATE PRINCIPAL ARTERIAL MAJOR OR THROUGH COLLECTOR
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METRO STATION
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This is the newly constructed six story Health and Human Services Building for Prince George’s County.
It is located at the Hampton Park Shopping Center and is the tallest building in this redeveloped mixed use center.
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This caption shows the existing retail businesses and the integrated new and renovated buildings within the major arterial boundaries.
A 3 Dimensional view of the Hampton Park Development. FALL/HOLIDAY 2022
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Capitol Heights: Walk Long Awaited Upward Trajectory For County Community Seems Within Walking Distance By Brian Burden Photography By Raoul Dennis
Kyle Reeder noticed it during a Capitol Heights Metro Station walking tour with local Maryland and DC officials as well as community activists in June. “We walked by a lot of empty lots that night that have been empty for a long time. We need to see some shovels in the ground,” said Reeder, a global project manager for the U.S. General Services Administration. “We need grocery stores and housing developments and parks, doctor’s offices, better streets and actual walkability.” The Coalition for Smarter Growth and RISE Prince George’s sponsored the walkthrough. Reeder says RISE is necessary to create a space for the conversation and advocate for things from a policy level. “This will be a walkable community with all the facilities people need without having to think about getting on the metro to go and find them,” said Adam Dodgshon, Supervisor, Placemaking at the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission. “I have to go by the plan I have and that calls for significantly more housing units, mixed income as well as mixed housing types. It will have more grocery stores and it will truly be a walkable place.” Plans for a radically reimagined Blue Line Corridor were released last year. This includes revamped areas next to and near the Capitol Heights, Addison Road/Seat Pleasant, Morgan Boulevard, and Largo Town Center metro station areas. Improved connectivity and accessibility, upgraded streets, and private sector investment litter the 88-page document. “The county has received almost a billion dollars for investment in the blue lone corri54.
dor,” Reeder said. “The community needs the confidence that the bigger picture items are going to be done, as well as new housing and access to healthy food. Good policy and good housing is good for everyone. But people can become disengaged and jaded with the process if they can’t see the progress.” Dodgshon acknowledged as much. “Planning is the long game. It is hard sometimes to keep the energy going when you are talking 15-20 more years, but all of our metro stations, including Capitol Heights, have an opportunity to have this higher density development and really start to pay back the communities,” said Dodgshon who moved to the county from England in 2017. “We have a chance to start filling in some of that missing retail they don’t have. “I like the opportunity that I see here.” Jim Sebastian, a senior planner with Toole Design Group, spoke about upcoming plans for the Capitol Heights area at the walkthrough. “We are looking at some safety improvements in this area and Addison Road and beyond,” Sebastian said. “This includes safer areas to walk and bike along. We still have a lot to do. In the meantime, the county is doing some quick hits and hopefully we will see that in the near future.” The big questions then, are when, and who will benefit? “Capitol Heights’ last development was 40 years ago. Since then, it has been lacking and thirsty for a lot of development,” said Reverend Harold Dugger, pastor of the First Baptist Church of Capitol Heights. “We need to proceed with caution to make sure that equity is there for everyone. Especially when you start talking about building and workforce development. Who will be able to live here? We have people on fixed and low FALL/HOLIDAY 2022
incomes, seniors, people that are retiring. What is realistic in terms of inclusiveness? Then District 7 Councilman Rodney Streeter stressed the future while speaking at the walkthrough. “This is an important opportunity for all stakeholders to come together. Transit-oriented development at the Capital Heights Metro station is a huge boost for our local economy and will create a walkable community,” Streeter said. “This is what residents demand that our communities need and now we are prepared to deliver. Be assured our best is yet to come.”
Link to Plans: https://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/DocumentCenter/View /36074/26120_SOCA_FINAL PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
king Toward Change
Transit-oriented development at the Capital Heights Metro station is a huge boost for our local economy and will create a walkable community,” Streeter said. “This is what residents demand that our communities need and now we are prepared to deliver.
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A PHOTOGRAPHY ESSAY BY ALICIA ADAMS
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The Power of o Community Pepco is proud to partner with more than 340 local nonprofits that help our community flourish. Learn more e at pepco.com/PowerOfCommunity
At Pepco, supplying power to homes and businesses in DC and Maryland is just part of what we do. We’re helping to foster growth within our neighborhoods.
PHOTOS BY ALICIA ADAMS AND AMIR STOUDAMIRE
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Pastor John Jenkins at the show.
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Yes, Luxury Does Come In
Will 2023 Be The Year Of The Electric Vehicle? Randi Payton Decisive Media Network
After many failed attempts to compete with internal combustion engines in the early 1800s, Electric Vehicles (EVs) regained popularity in 2020, primarily due to environmental concerns, high fuel costs, and federal tax incentives. Over the past few years, the automotive industry has shifted its focus to EVs. In 2023, most of the major and some new automakers plan to introduce more than 40 new EVs, fueled by government man-
some EVs are now comparable to gasoline vehicles, especially when factoring in the $7,500 federal tax incentive on EVs and some plug-in hybrids, recently announced by the White House. It’s now possible to purchase a well-equipped EV for less than $30,000 MSRP. Although the cost of maintaining an EV is less than a gasoline vehicle, some insurance companies charge higher rates since EV equipment costs more to repair or replace. According to AAA, EV owners can save an average of $330 per year in maintenance costs. A recent study from the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory and the Idaho National Laboratory estimates that EV car owners can save an average of $14,500 on fuel costs over a 15-year period, which is about $1000 a year. Price of Electricity
dates and changes in consumer perception and demand. Battery technology, more extended mileage range, and shorter charging times continue to improve each year, dispelling consumer perception and building confidence in the dependability of EVs. In 2023, a slew of affordable EVs was launched with all-electric mileage that ranges from 200 to 300 miles per charge. The time it takes to recharge an EV has also dropped, from overnight to only 30 minutes with a fast charger. During the pandemic, a computer chip shortage limited the production of new vehicles. However, the future looks promising, especially since the U.S. government has announced incentives to encourage more companies to produce computer chips here. Costs of Owning an EV
Prices have also dropped in the past few years. The costs of 68..
Gas
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The cost of charging an EV is significantly higher at public pay stations than having a home fast charger. The U.S Department of Energy estimates that 70% to 80% of EV owners charge their vehicles at home using AC Level 1 or AC level 2 chargers. Passage of the recent $1 trillion infrastructure bill is also expected to spur sales since $7.5 billion is set aside over the next five years to build over 500,000 charging stations in 35 states. By 2025, sales of plug-in vehicles will increase from 6.6 to over 20.6 million, according to the Bloomberg NEF. Additionally, by 2025, EV sales will become one-quarter of new vehicle sales worldwide. They will make up more than two-thirds of passenger vehicles by 2040, led by China and Europe, according to Bloomberg NEF’s Economic Transition Scenario.
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Green
EVs Launching in 2023 1. Tron 2. New Audi e-tron Sportback 3. Audi Q6 e-Tron 4. Audi Q6 Sportback e-tron 5. BMW i7 6. BMW i5 7. Cadillac Celestiq 8. Chevrolet Blazer EV 9. Chevrolet Equinox EV 10. Chevrolet Silverado EV 11. Genesis GV70 EV 12. GMC Sierra electric pickup 13. Hyundai Ioniq 6 14. 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric 15. Hyundai Ioniq 7 16. 2023 Kia Niro EV 17. Kia EV9 18. Lexus RZ 19. Lotus Eletre 20. Lotus Type 133 21. Maserati GranTurismo Folgore 22. Maserati Grecale Folgore 23. Mercedes EQS SUV
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24. Mercedes EQE 25. Mercedes-AMG EQE 26. Mercedes EQE SUV 27. Mercedes EQT MPV 28. Mercedes EQB 250+ 29. Nissan Ariya 30. Polestar 3 31. Polestar 4 32. Ram 1500 Electric Truck Concept 33. Subaru Solterra 34. Toyota bZ3 35. 2023 Volvo XC40 Recharge 36. VW ID. Buzz 37. Volvo Embla 38. GMC Hummer EV SUV (Electric Hummer SUV) 39. MINI Countryman Electric 40. Production Tesla Cybertruck 41. Tesla Roadster 42. Fisker Ocean 43. Rolls-Royce Spectre
(Source TopElectricSUV.com) FALL/HOLIDAY 2022
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Reasonable Clout
New Neurology Specialists Start At MedStar MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center brings on board-certified and fellowship-trained neurologists, Ahmareen Baten, MD, and Tian Wang, MD. The two new doctors join the neurologists team at the Clinton location. As neurologists, Dr. Baten and Dr. Wang cares for patients with a variety of neurologic conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, concussion, epilepsy, headaches, neuropathy, seizures, stroke, syncope, transient ischemic attack (TIA) and traumatic brain injuries. Dr. Baten attended medical school at New York University School of Medicine prior to completing a residency in neurology at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and a fellowship in epilepsy at the University
of Maryland Medical Center. She is board certified in neurology and epilepsy. Dr. Wang attended medical school at Shanghai Medical College Fudan University in China prior to completing a residency in neurology at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and a fellowship in epilepsy at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He is board certified in neurology and epilepsy. Both Dr. Baten and Dr. Wang said their approach to care
focuses on the “whole” person and not just the neurologic condition. “I treat my patients like I would treat a member of my family,” Dr. Baten said. “I’m here to listen, to answer questions, to educate and to get to know them as a person so that we can come up with a treatment plan that is right for that particular patient with their own set of circumstances.” “I believe it is important to collaborate with my patients, so they feel they are partners in developing their treatment plan,” Dr. Wang said. “I also believe in integrative approaches to wellbeing and often work with my patients to explore lifestyle solutions, such as diet and stress management.”
The Faith Edition Spring 2023
Prince George’s Suite Magazine & Media invites county based faith based institutions to participate in this faith themed edition. For more information: editor@pgsuite.com
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Women’s surgical care that sees you, hears you and heals you Expert surgery that’s centered around you. From caring and compassionate providers. Right in your community. unity. • Fibroid surgery with less pain and less recovery time • Advanced breast surgery with nurse navigation to help you stay organized • Urogynecologic surgery solutions • Reconstructive surgery after weight-loss or cancer • Innovative pain management and a wide range of therapy services to help you heal. So you can get back to what's most important.
Learn more at Luminis.Health/WomensSurgery
Moonshot: Ending Cancer The Goal: To Cut The Rate of Cancer Deaths in Half Over The Next 25 Years. Where Do We Fit In The Fight?
President Joe Biden was 20 years old when Kennedy delivered the speech. It likely made the same profound affect on him that it did millions across the nation–especially since the goal was accomplished in 1969. Now, it’s President Joe Biden’s White House and he’s borrowing a page from the Kennedy playbook. Combating cancer continues to be a vital issue for Biden. It’s personal for the president, who lost his son, Beau, to brain cancer in 2015. That helps explain why, as vice president in 2016, Biden launched the Cancer Moonshot initiative. “This is one of the reasons I ran for President,” Biden recently said Dr. Regina Hampton, Chief of Breast Surgery at Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center in an address on the 60th anniversary of Kennedy’s speech. “Cancer John F. Kennedy’s “We Choose To Go To The does not discriminate red and blue. Beating Moon” speech in September 1962. It was a cancer is something we can do together.” matter of military superiority. Kennedy The president doubled down on that 2016 pushed to reach the moon before 1970. In initiative, with a new goal of cutting today’s doing so, he planted a seed that though he age-adjusted cancer death rate from cancer by wouldn’t live to see it, would get us to the at least 50% over the next 25 years. moon and grow to set the tone for space “This is not a pie-in-the-sky-we-can’t-doexploration. this kind of thing. I think this is a very achievBy Brian Burden
There are fewer things sadder than coming in second in a two-person race. But it wasn’t just a matter of pride that led to President
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Key Goals Of The Plan
1. Cut today’s age-adjusted cancer death rate from cancer by at least 50% over the next 25 years.
2. Improve the experience of people and their families living with and surviving cancer.
able step, given that cancer mortality has declined substantially since the 1990s,” National Cancer Institute Director Ned Sharpless said in his director’s report at a Feb. 10 meeting of the National Cancer Advisory Board. “Although President Biden’s goal of reducing age adjusted cancer death rates by 50% is very optimistic, I agree with him on making a proPRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
Reducing cancer deaths? Many agree the goals can be achieved. The question from some medical professional remains the one of health equity.
The Death Rate From Cancer Has Fallen More Than 25% The Past 25 Years, According To Data From Centers For Disease Control And Prevention.
jection like this,” said Dr. Ankit Madan, an oncologist at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center in Clinton. Though it still remains the No. 2 cause of death in America behind heart disease, the death rate from cancer has fallen more than 25% the past 25 years, according to data from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “The goals are realistic. Look at breast cancer deaths,” said Dr. Regina Hampton, Chief of Breast Surgery at Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center in Lanham said. “In the last few years, they have certainly decreased.” A recent American Cancer Society report disclosed a 43% drop in breast cancer from 1989 to 2020. However, Dr. Hampton says there is a caveat. “Recent findings show deaths of white women have decreased 34%, but deaths of PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
African American women have only decreased 2%. Everything starts with conversations in these communities of color. There needs to be a grassroots campaign in education – under- Dr. Ankit Madan, oncolostanding how cancer gist at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center is treated today.” And that is where the region’s hospitals need to play a vital role in this initiative. Both Drs. Hampton and Madan believe that expanding education and communication into smaller communities is critical. Even just to get people to go to cancer screenings, millions of which were missed during the COVID-19 pandemic. FALL/HOLIDAY 2022
“It involves things like going to churches and senior centers to discuss touch points. Older folks were not brought up at a time of preventative care. You did not go to the doctor until you needed to,” Dr. Hampton said. “Misperceptions are out there. We need to get communities to buy more into preventative care.” Dr. Madan agrees. “All of us know someone who has had cancer,” Dr. Madan said. “Many trials related to cancer treatment are mostly available only at big cancer centers. Making them accessible in small communities not only improves outcomes but accelerates clinical trial enrollments and may give us even more real-world data.” To learn more about the President’s Cancer Moonshot initiative, please go to this White House link: www.whitehouse.gov/cancermoonshot 73.
Safer Haven Against Abuse, Trafficking
UM SAFE Center and UM Capital Region Health Receive $800,000 Grant to Address Human Trafficking In MD As UMD Combats Human Trafficking University of Maryland Capital Region Health (UM Capital) has a new partnership with UM Support, Advocacy, Freedom, and Empowerment (SAFE) Center allowing for a comprehensive human trafficking response model to be located at UM Capital Region Medical Center in Prince George’s County. The new partnership comes with a $799,878 grant awarded by The Department of Justice Office for Victims of Crime (OVC). The SAFE Center will work with UM Capital to implement the Serve, Identify, Respond, and eValuate (SIRV) Model at the hospital, which the SAFE Center jointly developed with the Maryland Hospital Association and Maryland Human Trafficking Task Force in 2019. The model is aimed at improving identification of and response to victims of sex and labor trafficking within healthcare systems by providing best practices for screening, identification, and support of victims in a medical setting. The OVC Services for Victims of Human Trafficking grant, awarded annually to victim service organizations focusing on the development and expansion of services for survivors, will fund the SAFE Center’s implementation of this model across five service areas within UM Capital’s Medical Center, including the Emergency Room; Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center; OB/GYN; Behavioral Health; and Outpatient Clinic. "When hospitals partner with community-based organizations to
address the needs of the County, we are accelerating our mission," said Nathaniel Richardson, Jr., President and CEO, University of Maryland Capital Region Health. "It is an honor to receive this grant and we look forward to working in collaboration with the SAFE Center to implement a response model that will address and reduce the instances of human trafficking in Prince George’s County." Implementation of this model at UM Capital, the second busiest trauma center in Maryland and largest not-forprofit healthcare system in Prince George’s County, will empower healthcare workers to identify trafficking risk and offer evidence-based, trauma-informed, patient-centered support to individuals who have experienced trafficking or are at high risk. This project will serve as a pilot for the implementation of the SIRV model, with the intention of scaling the model to other hospitals in the system. "We are excited to work with the hospital to improve outcomes for survivors of trafficking in Prince George’s County," said Ambassador Susan Esserman, JD, founder and director of the SAFE Center. "Putting this model into action is just the first step towards ensuring that medical facilities across the state are well equipped to provide the best care possible to victims of trafficking." Tags University of Maryland, SAFE Center, human trafficking, survivors, research, Department of Justice Office for Victims of Crime, prince george’s suite magazine
Sickle Cell Anemia Center Set To Open in Prince George’s Spring 2023
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Building For Better
By Tiffany Young
“If you build it, they will come.” In the 1989 movie: ‘Field of Dreams,’ actor Kevin Costner refers to building a baseball diamond in a cornfield where players of past eras would return. At the Adventist HealthCare Fort Washington Medical Center, President Eunmee Shim is a real life Kevin Costner. There is no acting in her role, but she is acting on behalf of the hospital’s overall management and everyone’s in agreement that it’s time for a newer and bigger hospital in southern Prince George’s County. Gearing up for the big debut, Shim will be overseeing the relocation of the Fort Washington Medical Center, just two miles up the road from its current location, in order to expand its footprint to support a larger population of people living in the community. With over 30 years of clinical, operational, informatics and strategic development experience, Shim has proven her capability of being a visionary. Having been with Adventist Healthcare for over 10 years, Shim has progressively been promoted to the top of her organization. 76.
In this case, building a new hospital does mean bigger is better and newer does mean nicer, but those are not the only attractions of the upcoming hospital. It is projected to house 23 acres of land between Livingston Road and Route 210 on Old Fort Road and serve as an anchor to providing access to healthcare to the community and developing physicians network. In her first three years as President, Shim was focused on recruiting. She says she understood the importance of having physicians that look like the community. “We want to have a strong and robust hospital that covers all the specialities and needs of the community. That really can’t happen without a hospital to anchor that. The vision also sees the need for having more ambulatory access. We need to make it more convenient. Making care available to where people live and work is necessary,” Shim said. Shim’s calendar is filled with opportunities that allowed for her to meet and greet some of the best physicians in the Washington metropolitan area, advocating for better health for the community by recruiting qualified medical staff.
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Eunmee Shim, President Of Adventist Healthcare Fort Washington Medical Center Is Focused On Expanding The Hospital’s Footprint By Being Growth Oriented
“I was selling my vision, is the best way I can put it,” she said. Adding that hiring more diverse physicians resulted in not having to send patients away. The Fort Washington Medical Center can now treat patients in areas such as vascular health. Leading the charge in changing the landscape of healthcare in southern Prince George’s County is just the type of purpose-driven leader that Shim has displayed in her career. The Washington Business Journal named Shim a 2022 ‘Women Who Means Business’ honoree and Women of Prince George’s County organization recognized her for her work and leadership. The other person who recognizes Shim’s talent and is on board with her vision is her colleague Dr. Kenneth Fisher, who serves as the hospital’s vice president and chief medical officer. As a longtime anesthesiologist, he joined the staff in March 2022. He too wants to improve healthcare outcomes in southern Prince George’s County. “It’s something [President Shim] is very passionate about and we have a great deal invested in the hospital being part of the community for such a longtime we are a kindred spirit here and we want to
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do all we can do,” he said. Shim’s best qualities as a President have been setting people up for success. Having a nursing background, she has enjoyed putting systems in place for people to succeed. As a longtime bedside nurse, she actually never thought she would enter healthcare. Born and raised in South Korea, Shim had an interest in poetry in high school that earned her a full scholarship to attend college. “I loved studying literature and history. So I thought I would aim to become a Nobel prize winner. I set my sights on that,” she said. Shim’s mother had another vision for her to go to nursing school like her sister. “There was a reason my Mom insisted I go into Nursing. At the time, Korea was most turbulent politically and lots of college students were involved in extreme activism. Most of those leaders were studying literature,” she said. Her Mother wanted her safe. “I loved helping people and I learned to love Nursing and healthcare and I am grateful I am in the field.” As a first generation immigrant, Shim is aware that the Fort Washington Medical Center is in a majority-minority community. She appreciates the diversity of the county. After moving to the Fort
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“Now that I work here I see the possibilities for women of color in leadership positions in healthcare.”
Washington area nearly seven years ago, Shim has noticed the county is very involved in thought-leadership around the country and supports women in leadership roles. “There are a lot of strong women in the county that I have a lot of respect for. I learned that after moving here, but I also learned that healthcare access is a big issue here. I know many are working to address it. In order to bring about change, you have to address it from all corners. I hope that here at [Adventist HealthCare] we can make a difference,” Shim said. “Having Shim at the helm of this hospital shows a lot of strength, being a minority woman,” said ICHU Nurse Manager Trakina Franklin. “Now that I work here I see the possibilities for women of color in leadership positions in healthcare.” Franklin has been working at the Fort Washington Medical Center since 2017. The challenges of not having access to healthcare and not having enough infrastructure and resources in the county have presented itself as problematic. Shim is studying the data and has identified the areas that need the most improvements. For example, hospitals in the county do not have enough acute care beds to serve the population in-need. Shim says the data shows that the county is less than half the state average. In addition, the number of providers in the county, no matter the speciality, is far off from neighboring cities and the lack of com78.
mercial space for doctors to practice in the county is low. “This puts us behind. The resources are not fairly distributed that leaves us as a medical desert,” she said. The Fort Washington Medical Center is known for its effective emergency department, Shim said and she is not shy about wanting the hospital to be well-known in all aspects of healthcare when it comes to focusing on the needs of the patients. Franklin adds that safety is a priority as well. “We work very hard to make sure that everyone is safe, from the staff to the patient to the families. We want to provide adequate care,” she said. In providing adequate care, making sure the facility is housed with enough beds is vitality important. The ICHU unit at the Fort Washington Medical Center went from four to sixteen beds. Franklin also wants people to know that the ICHU unit does not mean death. Designed to provide treatment and monitor people who are very ill, the vision for the ICHU unit at the new hospital to come would be to add more beds and have more visibility within the department. In Fisher’s opinion, the Fort Washington Medical Center has an advantage of being part of the community since 1991. In 2019, Adventist HealthCare acquired the small acute-care hospital that was once run by Oxon Hill-based Nexus Health Inc. Fisher appreciates Shim’s leadership style. Her ambition and thinking outside the box, he says, is evident in her drive and determination in improving healthcare in the community.
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The Arc Prince George’s At 70
The Organization That Helped Generations of People With Disabilities To Live Fuller Lives Reaches A Milestone And Promises To Deliver Higher
By Raoul Dennis And Daud Watts
This September’s gala of the 70th anniversary of the Arc Prince George’s was more than a celebration of the survival of an administrative agency. It was the acknowledgment of lives saved, lives changed for the better and families empowered to better care for their loved ones. It was also the humble announcement of new techniques and approaches to come. “Our work at The Arc Prince George’s County is emotional and heart-warming,” says Arc of Prince George’s Executive Director Rob Malone. “For many people in this vulnerable population, we are the agency they call when they are in crisis. From working through the challenging new realities of having a new born with a developmental disability to building independence for someone within their home environment, the Arc is where they turn for help.” He continued sharing new offerings of the Arc from diverse communities and the organizations that help support the services. “I am so proud of our new work that is funded by organizations like CareFirst, TD Bank Foundation and Chick-fil-A that allows us to extend these same resources and supports to Hispanic families. Families who do not speak English as their primary language can have a particularly lonely and difficult road to travel. We are now able to make an impact, walk them through the process and guide them in their language,” Malone says.
The Arc has come a long way from its beginnings. To say that people with learning disabilities, especially those coupled with physical disability, were stigmatized for over a hundred years is big understatement. At one point not too long ago, from the 1950s to the 1970s, these children and adults were legally labeled as "mentally retarded." They were isolated, ostracized, refused access to many areas, and designated as PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
PHOTO: AMIR STOUDAMIRE
Robert Malone Executive Director
unable to learn or participate fully in their own communities. In far too many cases, people were institutionalized – warehoused – for their entire lives. These tragedies were sometimes compounded by neglect and abuse at the hands of the very people hired to serve at such institutions. "Back in the 1950s", notes Education and Community Engagement Manager Melonee Clark, “people were told to go home. The doctors would tell families just go send them to the institution and you go home." Today, services and resources for people with disabilities are found in nearly every community in America. One of pioneering change agents in this arena has been the Arc. Much of the initial successes were driven by harnessing the ‘power of parents.’ Since resources to assist children with autism and other conditions that were not even named at that point, the responsibility of help their own children survive in a difficult climate, parents had to take the lead in protecting and caring for their health and social needs. Parents had to take on all of those responsibilities on their FALL/HOLIDAY 2022
Mac Ramsey, former Arc executive director, 1983 -2015 Education and Community Engagement Manager Melonee Clark
shoulders. They met together in small groups informed small communities of self-help. They shared their houses and teaching strategies with each other. Often, they would take care of each other's children in shifts. This pattern of slow, steady growth went on for decades. Mac Ramsey was the Executive Director of the Arc Prince George’s from 1983 to 2015. He describes the state of the office 30 years after in founding: “I came here at Halloween 1983. We had a two-room office in the back of city hall in Bowie. We rented two classrooms. We were small compared to what the ARC had in Montgomery County. We were simply a referral service, providing information on how to get children this or that service. The only other thing we were doing was our community livCONTINUED ON PAGE 90
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A Green Owl Adds to Its Nest, Properly — And With 20/20 Community Vision By Frank Dexter Brown
Imagine this shopping experience: “Upon entering the boutique, you immediately encounter a stunning wall adorned with Cole & Sons wallpaper, a 6’ tall birdcage and light fixtures with palms leaves and feathers. The designers create a magical and well-designed backdrop to showcase elevated product lines that speak to an experiential shopping space. The walls are painted a lush green with classic accent colors that blend to create an interior space with depth and interest.” This is how the story of the unique retail venture Nest Proper, as described above by proprietors Erica Riggio and Angela Justice, blossomed in November 2022. Co-owners of the Hyattsville interior design firm Green Owl Design, Riggio and Justice say they extended their well-established creative brand “to evoke the senses” through distinctive products and interior design. The new upscale boutique, located within the Gateway Arts District corridor in Arts District Hyattsville, broadens the services of Green Owl Design. “We are committed to inspiring a community around selfcare, selfexpression, and a shared purpose of living thoughtfully,” Riggio and Justice explain. Located at 5303 Baltimore Avenue, Suite 102, in the historic Maryland Building, Nest Proper is a retail destination providing homecentered lifestyle essentials by offering diverse locally and internationally sourced items: candles, bath and body products, jewelry, home décor, and wearables, are among the offerings. The co-owners’ artistic and business philosophy reflects exceptional academic backgrounds. Riggio earned a Master of Fine Arts in interior design from George Washington University, and took classes in art and design at the Maryland Institute of Art (MICA) in Baltimore. Architecture and interior design studies was part of her train80.
ing. “I honor the architecture of a space by creating harmonious balance within interiors,” Riggio says, adding, “Textural neutral backdrops create the canvas on which my designs begin, while infusion of rich accents and sensible patterns continue to create distinctive space.” Justice graduated in fine arts and art history at Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia, and received an undergraduate fine arts degree and graduate degree in interior design at Marymount University in Virginia. Justice says she integrates her background in art history, fine arts and interior design: “I approach a space as I would a painting — the composition of color, texture, light and proportion have to balance harmoniously to create a beautiful and functional result.”
A commitment to support artists and makers
Growing The
Nest
The two designers also are dedicated to community service — Green Owl has been a stalwart of public arts since its founding in 2014. This too is part of Nest Proper’s mission. “Social events will continue to be hosted for brand growth and recognition,” they emphasize. “Our new venture continues our long-standing commitment to support artists and makers.” For instance, flip back to 2017. Across the street from their Baltimore Ave. office, buildings with crumbling facades and broken windows lined the street. Local real estate investFALL/HOLIDAY 2022
ments had declined following the great recession. Something had to change. So Riggio and Justice reached out to local artists and community groups, and together they initiated a #fight the blight campaign: the avenue soon became a canvas and design studio. Colorful dreams bloomed. But not long after, the artistic streetscape disappeared — the murals were demolished by an incoming developer. Other community-partnered projects have proved more longlasting. Overall, their clientele consists mostly of multifamily, hospitality, model homes, and residential design. This includes Sangfroid PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
PHOTO: MARY PAT COLLINS PHOTOGRAPHY
Distilling, the first distillery in Prince George’s County; The Garfield at Bowie, where they designed and renovated a clubhouse for a multifamily apartment complex; designing furnishings and decorative lighting for a Washington, DC-based client’s West Virginia vacation home; and designing and renovating Ella’s Pizza, a popular DC eatery. And service comes in other forms. Riggio contributes to building entrepreneurship opportunities as a member and part of the leadership team of Entrepreneurly, an organization for and by entrepreneurs, which seeks to provide tools, networks, and resources to PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
Joe Hodgson Photography small business owners for improving a businesses “health, prosperity, and ability to scale over the million dollar mark.” Power to transform experiences, reshape lives and
connect communities
Their range and sensibility as artists, interior designers, public art advocates and entrepreFALL/HOLIDAY 2022
neurs is enhanced by tenacity and fearlessness — vital traits for inventive leaders. Indeed,
CONTINUED ON PAGE 90 81.
Once Upon A Time
The Prince George’s Philharmonic And Phylicia Rashad at Prince George’s Community College Center For Performing Arts
By Tiffany Young // Photography By Amir Stoudamire
On Sunday December 11, the Prince George’s Community College, Center for Performing Arts hosted its annual holiday concert presented by Prince George’s Philharmonic in collaboration with the Coalition For African Americans In The Performing Arts (CAAPA) and welcomed the legendary actress, Phylicia Rashad, who showcased her talents as the narrator for the performance, “Peter & The Wolf.” The Philharmonic performs five or six concerts each season under the baton of Musical Director and Conductor, Maestro Jesus Manuel Berard. The afternoon’s performance was filled with beautiful holiday music and dancing. Held at the community college’s arts center concert hall, the winter show was filled to capacity. "Sunday’s performance of ‘Peter & The Wolf ‘, conducted by Maestro Jesus Manuel Berard, was a creative masterpiece!! Spectacular performance from the young artists. An outstanding solo from Simone Paulwell. The entire evening transported me to my childhood,” said Beverley East, board member, CAAPA. As the Philharmonic orchestra performed on stage, Rashad, who is a singer, director, and dean of the College of Fine Arts at Howard University, narrated the symphonic fairy tale written for children by
The Performers
Jesus Manuel Berard, conductor Phylicia Rashad, narrator Simone Paulwell, soprano CAAPA Dance Ensemble PROKOFIEV: Peter and the Wolf ADAM: O, Holy Night
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Sergei Prokofiev in 1936. When performed, the narrator tells a children’s story, while the orchestra illustrates it by using different instruments to play a "theme" that represents each character in the story. The audience was a mix of adults and families with children, mainly grade school age. CAAPA provided the dancing for the show. CAAPA, a community-based performing and visual arts nonprofit, has a vision to help promote opportunities for Black classical musicians and others in the performing arts through arts performances, education, and outreach. "CAAPA is always honored to partner with arts organizations like the talented Prince George’s Philharmonic Orchestra to provide quality programming to the community. Special guest Phylicia Rashad was a brilliant and funny narrator and soprano Simone Paulwell filled the hall with glorious high notes! What a joy it was to see so many black children and families in the audience and black performers on the stage. We truly accomplished our mission of “bringing color to the classics,” said Pamela T. Simonson, co-founder, CAAPA. Following the performance, a selection of holiday songs were performed by Soprano Simone Paulwell and the CAAPA Dance Ensemble. Some of the holiday musical favorites included: “O Holy Night and “White Christmas.”
ANDERSON: A Christmas Festival and Sleigh Ride BERLIN: White Christmas CHASE, Bruce, arr.: Around the World at Christmas Time RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN (arr. Bennett): The Sound of Music RUTTER, arrangements.: Go Tell it on the Mountain FALL/HOLIDAY 2022
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Warming Up To Better Winter Habits With colder temperatures now upon the region, and as customers begin using more energy to heat their homes and businesses, Pepco remains committed to delivering safe and reliable energy service, while helping every customer keep energy costs manageable. Pepco is working to manage the increasing costs of energy supply, knowing the overall higher costs of goods and services and the effects of inflation continue to present challenging times for customers. “We know that rising energy costs and the costs of other goods and services are becoming an increasing challenge for our customers,” said Tamla Olivier, chief operating officer for Pepco Holdings, which includes Pepco. “We recognize our customers rely on us to keep the lights on and their homes and businesses heated, no matter what we may confront. Our team is constantly working to strengthen and secure the local energy grid against severe weather and to help keep our customers connected when they need us most.” As winter approaches, Pepco is readying the local energy grid by performing essential work to help meet increased customer demand and keep homes and businesses warm and bright all season long. This work includes hardening the system to increase reliability and performing maintenance and inspections to prepare 84.
for severe weather. On the electric grid, this work includes inspecting and upgrading equipment; trimming trees, building new underground equipment; and installing stronger, tree-resistant aerial cable. Pepco also continues to install smart technologies to improve system reliability, such as specialized equipment that can automatically restore service faster or isolate damage. Just as Pepco prepares, the company encourages customers also to be ready for severe weather and offers the following tips: • Assemble an emergency storm kit. Include battery-powered radio, flashlight, a first- aid kit, blankets, battery-powered or windup clock, extra batteries, medications, multi- purpose tool and list of important/emergency phone numbers. • Have a supply of bottled water and easy-toprepare, non-perishable foods available to last at least 72 hours. • Keep a flashlight with fresh batteries on each floor of your home. • Identify an alternate location for you and/or your family in case of an extended outage. • Review the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operations of your generator. Do not connect a generator directly to your home’s wiring. Never use a generator indoors or any enclosed area. FALL/HOLIDAY 2022
•Download our mobile app at pepco.com/MobileApp and visit our website at pepco.com/StormPrep for more tips on how you can prepare.
Pepco understands some customers may use more energy to power their homes through the winter. To help, Pepco offers the following tips to help lower customer energy costs: • Manage your bill on My Account. Online energy management tools show you how much energy you are using. The bill to date feature lets you know what your bill costs are to date at any time during the month. You can also get tips based on your energy saving goals. • Install energy efficient light bulbs. Energyefficient LED bulbs use up to 75 percent less energy than standard bulbs. • Unplug unused electrical devices when you leave a room. Chargers use energy when left plugged in after your device is fully charged. • Check your thermostat. Set your thermostat a few degrees lower in the winter, if health permits. A few degrees could mean 10 percent savings or more on your monthly bill. • Adjust your blinds. Keep your blinds up during the day to capture the radiant heating benefits of the sun. Close your blinds and curtains after the sun goes down to keep the cold air out and the heat in. PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
Surviving The Addiction Of Holiday Shopping
Is It Pleasure or Pressure Running Your Pockets?
Lindiwe Vilakazi // Prince George’s Suite Magazine & Media
The season of candy corn, pumpkin spice, and everything nice visits us again, encouraging the average spenders and shopaholics alike to close out the year with a trunk full of gratifying treats. Like clockwork, consumer spending significantly ramps up as the emotional appeal of gifting and self-indulgence drives people to retail. But with fluctuating gasoline prices, increasingly pricey grocery store receipts, and a housing market growing less affordable for the average worker, this year seems the proper time to stop and reassess why we are constantly lulled into the cycle of excessive spending during the holiday season. According to Insider Intelligence, holiday sales are expected to see a 3.3 percent to $1.3 trillion increase from the 2021 Christmas holiday season. The projected spending surge comes amid a developing recession, yet many Americans insist on emptying their pockets for the annual festivities. Clinical psychologist and Professor Chair of Bowie State University’s Psychology Department, Dr. Ometha Lewis-Jack, Ph.D., weighs in on the issues of seasonal overspending, and the effects of societal programming as it relates to the retail market. “It definitely shouldn’t be a time people splurge and spend, but it’s almost like [people are] programmed. Part of it, you have to [first examine] why people spend [for] Christmas. Capitalism has programmed people into thinking Christmas is a time of giving, so [the logic becomes] whether I have or don’t have, I am going to give for Christmas,” Lewis-Jack said. “It’s going to absolve me from all the other things that I have done, and then in January, I’m broke. And the industry has bought into that, so they know that people are on this guilt trip.” The classical conditioning weaved into our media and society largely accounts for a significant upscale in spending. But are people truly enjoying the sensation of overspending for the sake of giving to others, or perhaps succumbing to the pressure of our culture’s big spending trends? “There is a whole mental, physical, and spiritual push towards Christmas because it is a time of Jesus and Christianity, it’s a time of well-being, and goodness, and so you are supposed to now back it up [with something] physically to show the goodness that you have. Most people who don’t have the emotional 86.
strength to reach out to people and say I’m sorry will send a gift. Everyone is brought into that whole [cycle of] giving and spending and letting money show how much you care. If you don’t do that, they make you feel guilty.” Dr. Lewis-Jack highlights responsible methods of spending during the holiday season while simultaneously taking care of oneself first. Creating a healthy cushion of savings every month to prepare for the holiday season, for example, provides major financial and mental relief once the gift-giving season arrives, especially for those who know they are true givers this time of the year. “Some companies are doing [what they call] a Christmas fund. You can have [the employer] take out such an amount of money and send it to [whichever] bank. The credit unions are doing it.
You put money into that, and then that money is yours and you can use it however you want. Christmas may even come early for you,” Lewis-Jack shares heartily. Let this holiday season be a focus of reconditioning: as it is vital not to interrupt your peace of mind and create internal anxiety by entertaining the social and financial pressure for friends and family. The holiday is a time to reflect on our reverence for life, and the richness of our experiences. Spend your money, and especially time wisely as we count down to 2023.
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Kid Rock
You See The Talent. Ways To Foster A Love of Music at an Early Age
(StatePoint) It’s never too early to encourage children to love to song. Her head will nod along to the music while her jowls flap make and appreciate music. Here’s are four activities that any kid to the beat. can enjoy and grow his/her appreciation for music: Attend a Concert
Whether you’re attending a symphony or a rock concert, there is no substitute for the excitement of a live musical performance. Not only will kids enjoy watching the show, the experience may inspire them to learn to dance or play an instrument themselves. To get started, look for events geared towards kids and families, or those with relaxed vibes, to ensure little ones will get the most out of the experience.
Get Immersed
Hit up the library and check out picture books that build music vocabulary or feature musical characters. Look for movies and television shows with musical themes. There are many entertaining ways to immerse kids into the world of music. Create a Playlist
Give kids the tools they need to develop their own music tastes and interests. Many streaming services now offer special apps for kids that allow them to explore genres, musicians and songs all on their own. This is a safe and easy way to ensure little ones have access to kid-friendly content, along with the freedom to create their own library and playlists. Of course, a good pair of headphones that are safe for young, sensitive ears is also essential!
Play With Musical Toys
Toys are a fun and interactive way to encourage musical creativity and help kids find the beat. One of the coolest musical toys out there, a 2022 Toy of the Year finalist, is DJ Beat Boxer from VTech. Each interaction with this music-mixing pup -- from scratching DJ’s head and booping her nose to pushing the buttons on her headphones -- adds layers to the music. Kids can start a rhythm and add in backbeats, harmonies, record-scratching sounds, an air horn effect and more to complete any remix. They can even press DJ’s ear to record a quick phrase to drop into their PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
tion for music.
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From playlists to playtime, you can help foster a child’s lifelong love and apprecia-
87.
Music That Inspires
Jason Max Ferdinand, Professor, Conductor, Composer, Speaker Is Inspired By The Greats By Tiffany Young // PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMIR STOUDAMIRE
Inspiration can be challenging to understand and describe because what inspires one person may not have any relevance for another. If you are like Jason Max Ferdinand, then your inspiration would come from a mentor. Your inspiration would come from the passion to teach others. Your inspiration will be felt through music. Recently, Jason Max Ferdinand, who grew to be a globally recognized musical conductor, announced he was selected to be the Director of Choral Activities at the University of Maryland in College Park. Professionally, he will assume those responsibilities this Fall and will still pursue his per88.
sonal desires of creating brilliant music that will touch the world. As part of the celebration of his coming to the area, two classical concert events were held in the DMV. First, a community based event at the CAAPA Cultural Center in Fort Washington followed up and punctuated with “From Solace to...” held at the National City Christian Church on August 13 at 5 Thomas Circle, NW in Washington D.C. Known as a professor, conductor, composer, and speaker, he wears many hats. He is also the founding artistic director of The Jason Max Ferdinand Singers: An Ensemble of Exceptional Talents. He is a published author and composer with GIA Publications, featuring the book: “Teaching with Heart: Tools for Addressing Societal Challenges Through FALL/HOLIDAY 2022
Music,” and The Jason Max Ferdinand Choral Series (Walton Music). He maintains an active schedule as a guest conductor and lecturer at schools, universities, churches, choral festivals and conferences, both domestic and international. When Ferdinand first pulled together the group, The Jason Max Ferdinand Singers, he only had the sound of the ensemble in his head. Like many artists, Covid-19, put dreams on hold as many were forced into hiatus. Now, it’s a new day and he is ready to get back into creating music and being an inspiration along the way. “I truly feel that I am back to bring life and build upon all the great things all I wanted to do. Being asked to come teach at the University and assist the program is a great PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
Max Ferdinand at center with CAAPA, Patrick McCoy (yellow jacket) and arts leaders.
CAAPA leaders Pamela T. Simonson (left) and Executive Director Terri Allen (right)
For More Photos Go To Jason Max Ferdinand Special Community Event at Prince George’s Suite Magazine’s Flickr page. https://www.flickr.com/photos/princegeorgessuite/albums/72177720304309429
Max Ferdinand
opportunity,” Ferdinand said. Ferdinand was welcomed to the county and region by the Coalition for African Americans in the Performing Arts (CAAPA) with a special presentation on August 12. Supported in part by the Prince George’s Arts and Humanities Council (PGAHC), CAAPA which is located in Fort Washington, PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
MD has a vision to help promote opportunities for black classical musicians and others in the performing arts through arts performances, education and outreach. A man that has built a career in taking deep dives into projects, he has been following his dreams for some time now. One thing that is on his ‘to-do’ list is helping other artists conFALL/HOLIDAY 2022
nect and share music with others. “I want up and coming artists to know that they have to keep listening and keep sharing with others, that is how we keep it going,” he said. “What drives me is having great mentors and perseverance.” 89.
The Arc Prince George’s Celebrates 70 Years
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 79
ing and had three group homes and 3 apartments. We served maybe 20 people and had a staff of 16 folks. We were small, but the time was ripe for growth.” The former executive director continued: Shortly after I started, we started to grow significantly. Every year we were opening 3 – 5 homes from the early 1980s. By the time he retired there were 55 group homes throughout the county. The Arc served all kinds of clients- including those who needed 24-hour care. “In the 1970s and 80s we were trying to move the service from just sending kids to a state institution. We wanted to expand community support. Over time we went from no services to a robust system of services for employment for day, family residential, child day care, information referral, etc. It mushroomed,” Ramsey explained. Perhaps as critical to the growth of the ARC has been its evolving role as an advocate for the rights of the disabled. The website notes "The Arc has advocated for the passage of state and federal legislation on behalf of people with disabilities and established a broad network of state and local chapters that range from small voluntary groups to large, professional organ-
Nest
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 81
not only did they launch Green Owl following difficult economic times, but they are opening Nest Proper not long after the financial downturn connected with the Covid-19 pandemic. Yes, this too reflects their aesthetic: initiative, combined with ingenuity and sagacity. Justice explains, “I want to continue to create inspiring distinctive spaces. Stepping outside of the box and taking chances is how one grows creatively, how the limits are pushed to create something unalike and remarkable.” Riggio adds that “good design should be accessible. It functions as one of the cornerstones of a quality existence and should be into every facet of life.” They say in a mission statement: “We are passionate about thoughtful design, its power to transform experiences, reshape lives and connect communities. …We approach 90.
izations." Indeed, the Arc has been one of strongest
advocates in modern political history. It was included on the first President’s Panel on Mental Retardation (PPMR). Their advocacy with other national organizations resulted in the enactment of Medicare and Medicaid. Arc leaders successfully lobbied for the passage of the Medicaid Home and Community Based Waiver and for Congress to include disability as a protected class under the Fair Housing Act, the 1976 Individual Disability Education Act. And they grew exponentially. Mac Ramsey noted, “It’s special that a lot of people think it’s all about helping people. But it’s also a busi-
ness in the county: there were 600 employees by the time I left with a $26 million budget that’s over $30 million now.” Throughout its existence, the Arc essentially maintained the same parent-led business model. When Melonee Clark arrived at the Arc in 2000, her only goal was to get the support to help her 4-year-old daughter. “I started working part-time in 2003, she says, "so it'll be 20 years next year. I learned how important advocacy is. Nothing changes, nothing happens unless there's a voice speaking to those who are change makers. So it taught me that you needed to share your challenges.” The Arc of Prince George’s County is now one of the largest disability service agencies in Maryland. With an annual budget of over $30 million, the Arc is able to impact thousands of people each year through outreach, education, referral services, benefits application support, and direct service. Ramsey adds, " I feel great the organization has endured for 70 years and most likely will endure another 70. There has been a lot of work and improvement in our field. I'm proud to be part of that.”
Curtis Jordan Photography
design academically and practically. We implement avant-garde strategies to break the FALL/HOLIDAY 2022
design mold. We push limits. …We love what we do.” PRINCE GEORGE’S SUITE MAGAZINE
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