Vol. 77, No. 48 November 26 — December 2, 2009 Prince George’s County, Maryland Newspaper of Record Phone: 301-627-0900 25 cents

A COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FOR PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY Since 1932

The Prince George’s Post

CAPITAL NEWS SERVICE PHOTO BY SHARMINAMANANDHARSen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., speaks at a news conference in the Capitol Tuesday while,from left, Silver Spring resident Eric Cathcart, 53, his wife, Cynthia Cathcart, 50, andSen. Ben Cardin, D-Md., listen. The news conference was held by Democratic senators tohighlight the impact of rising health care costs on middle-class families.

MOUNT RANIER - On abrisk fall night here, Brent Bolinfires up his corn-burning stove."It's great you can have some

heat while you're sitting in yourliving room or doing whatever,"said the 33-year-old NationalInstitutes of Health employee."It's a cozy, nice thing to have."Bolin is one of several dozen

Mt. Rainier-area residents using

corn to heat all or part of a home.And he's one of nearly 70 mem-bers of Save Our Sky and ProtectOur Planet, sister-home-heatingcooperatives in Takoma Park andMt. Rainier providing access toshelled feed corn for their stovesthrough urban grain bins.The co-ops have been gaining

in popularity. Since its openingin 2002, the Takoma Park co-ophas gained around 10 new mem-bers a year, said Sat Jiwan Ikle-Khalsa, president of the sisterco-ops.

The opening of the newestbin, in Mt. Rainier, was celebrat-ed last month, seven years afterthe opening of the Takoma Parkbin. The bins mean co-op mem-bers can avoid the drive to Mt.Airy where a local farmer growsthe corn using sustainable meth-ods.Members say corn stoves are

an eco-friendly way to heat

By LINDSAY GSELLCapitalNewsService/MarylandNewsline

High-powered Trio Tours CitySchools to Gauge ReformsObama's Initiative to Improve Education Inspired This Group

BALTIMORE - Secretary of EducationArne Duncan, the Rev. Al Sharpton and formerHouse Speaker Newt Gingrich examined oper-ations at three Baltimore schools Friday, con-tinuing a national tour to highlight school chal-lenges and analyze reforms."We believe that, along with the president,

that every parent ought to have the right to taketheir children to a school they believe in," saidGingrich, a Republican who led the Housefrom 1995 to 1999.President Obama's initiative to improve

education and college preparedness across the

nation inspired this group to take a close lookat what reforms are needed to meet this goal.They want to look at "lifting restrictions on

the growth of high-quality charter schools,turning around low-performing schools, andimproving principal and teacher quality,"according to a news release from theDepartment of Education.The tour's first stop was in Philadelphia on

Sept. 29, and their third and final stop is to bedetermined.In Maryland, lawmakers are looking to let

schools set their standards individually.PHOTO BYMARYLAND NEWSLINE'S JON SHAM

The Rev. Al Sharpton and some students turn toward studentTyler Marner as he talks about his experiences at theBaltimore charter school, which has 9-and-a-half-hour schooldays.

NuclearPower:a StepBackwardMaryland Closeto Constructinga Third Reactor

BALTIMORE - As Marylandcloses in on the construction of athird reactor at Calvert CliffsNuclear Power Plant in Lusby, anenvironmental organization hasreleased a report calling nuclearpower a step backward in thenation's race to reduce pollution.The Environment Maryland

Research and Policy Centerreport, released Tuesday, callsnuclear power "too slow and tooexpensive," an energy source thatmakes little economic sense incombating climate change.While nuclear power might be

preferable to fossil fuel-basedenergy sources, it is "divertingand delaying action," said econo-mist John Howley, who was partof a panel convened byEnvironment Maryland.Howley, who writes Maryland

Energy Report, believes that

EnforcementofImmigrationRulesLocallyWinsPraise

WASHINGTON - Enlistinglocal police in immigrationenforcement could help preventcrimes committed by illegalimmigrants, Baltimore's formerMaryland TransportationAuthority Police Chief GaryMcLhinney, argued in a paneldiscussion Thursday.McLhinney urged wide-

spread adoption of the so-called287(g) program, which allowsspecially trained local police tocheck the immigration status ofcriminal suspects and refer themto Immigration and CustomsEnforcement for detention ordeportation.The remarks came on the

heels of a federal lawsuit againstSheriff Chuck Jenkins inFrederick County, the onlyMaryland jurisdiction participat-ing in 287(g). The suit, filedNov. 10, alleges that two ofJenkins' deputies are guilty ofracial profiling in the recentquestioning and arrest of aSalvadoran woman.Local police departments

tend to disagree over when tocontact ICE to check a suspect'simmigration status. InMontgomery County, officersonly reach out to ICE if anoffender has committed a violentcrime.McLhinney, who served as

Maryland TransportationAuthority Police chief until2007, said the 287(g) programconstitutes a vital link between

See SCHOOLS, Page A5

INSIDENeighbors Columns:Morningside-Skyline,Brandywine-Aquasco,Clinton Conversations,SuitlandNeighbors, Page A2

Residents hosts the AnnualPolice Appreciation Day atthe District V Police Stationto demonstrate their supportfor the officersCommunity, PageA3

AAAMid-Atlantic OpensNew Office in Brandywineto Serve The FastestGrowing Area Of MarylandBusiness, Page A5

Roland Emmerich, (afterdetouring into prehistoricidiocy with "10,000 B.C.")has chosen to double downon the Mother-Nature-as-ter-rorist angle with "2012," avery long, very loud, andvery stupid disaster flickEntertainment, PageA6

Going green has become amantra among airlines, carrental companies and evenhotel chains. The fuelcrunch forced all into belt-tightening, good news forthe environment.Feature, PageA7

Concerns Over Gridlock in BethesdaArea Loom as BRAC Draws Near

BETHESDA - JudithWortman has lived in herhouse near Bethesda NationalNaval Medical Center for 37years.The noise and pollution are

already bad, she said, and withnew employees and patientscoming to the hospital as partof military base closings, she'sworried the influx of trafficand people will mean bigproblems."It's packed tight, this

whole community," Wortman

said.At a meeting of the

Governor's Subcabinet onBase Realignment andClosure Thursday, Wortman,community members, andstate officials expressed con-cern about how expanding thehospital would affect traffic inthe already overwhelmedarea.As mandated by BRAC,

Walter Reed Army MedicalCenter in Washington willrelocate much of its operationto Bethesda National NavalMedical Center by September2011. This will bring 2,500

employees to the hospital aswell as create "1,900 estimat-ed additional trips to the hos-pital campus per day," accord-ing to a recent study by thefederal GovernmentAccountability Office.The merged facility will be

renamed the Walter ReedNational Military MedicalCenter.In remarks to the subcabi-

net, Lt. Gov. Anthony Brownsaid the new employees at themedical center will simply be

Md. Couple Bolsters Senate Dems' Callfor Middle-Class Health Care Reform

WASHINGTON - Thestruggle to maintain affordablehealth care coverage may end aMaryland family's 14-year"good run" of operating theirown businesses.Silver Spring residents

Cynthia and Eric Cathcartdetailed howAmerican middle-class families are sufferingbecause of the high cost ofhealth insurance at a news con-ference in the Capitol Tuesday.They were joined by Sens. BenCardin, D-Md.; Kay Hagan, D-N.C.; Ted Kaufman, D-Del.;Paul Kirk, D-Mass.; PattyMurray, D-Wash.; and AmyKlobuchar, D-Minn.Eric Cathcart, 53, may have

to "let it go" and "join a largeorganization" -- forgoing hisPotomac Talent LLC and otherbusinesses -- because the self-employed, middle-class family

cannot afford the rising cost ofhealth insurance, he said."The economy is working

against me, so I just can't affordto pay more for insurance,"Cathcart later said.The family looked into join-

ing a musicians' union in hopesof getting cheaper rates, butfound they'd pay $1,700 amonth under the group plan,according to Cynthia Cathcart,50.So the Cathcarts applied to

two different insurance compa-nies. One rejected Eric, whilethe other turned down their sonAlex, 17, because of their pre-existing conditions -- obesityand mild autism, respectively,the family said.The family ended up getting

coverage through two policies -- Eric Cathcart under one andhis wife, son and their other sonBrian, 19, under another, pay-ing about $700 a month for pre-miums, he said.

PHOTO BYMARYLAND NEWSLINE'S LINDSAY GSELLThe 20-foot tall, 9-foot-wide bin in Mount Rainierholds 20 tons of corn.

By SHARMINAMANANDHARCapital News Service

See CORN, Page A3

SeeWARMING, Page A5

See IMMIGRATION, Page A5 See BRAC, Page A7

By CATHERINE KRIKSTANCapital News Service

By BOBBYMCMAHONCapital News Service

By TINA IRGANGCapital News Service

Urban Grain Bin Brings CornFuel Out of Boondocks

By LAURA GURFEINCapital News Service

A2 — November 26 — December 2, 2009 — The Prince George’s Post

NEIGHBORSTowns and

In and Around Morningside-Skylineby Mary McHale 301 735 3451

Clinton Conversationsby Norma Fazenbaker 301 579 6116

Brandywine-Aquasco by Ruth Turner 301 888 2153

Suitlandby Janice Euell 301 523 2677

Route 5 widening coming upin BrandywineBranch Avenue (Md. 5) at

Accokeek Road is the focus of anew State HighwayAdministration project. Thework includes widening nearlyone mile in both directions ofBranch Ave. from two to threelanes, between just north ofBrandywine Road to just southof the MD 5 and MD 373 inter-section. Also included will bereconstruction of existing trafficsignals, lengthening of left turnlanes and new pavement mark-ings.Work is due to start soon with

completion planned by fall 2010.There may be a need for occa-sional, temporary closures alongnorth or southbound MD 5overnights between 10 p.m. and5 a.m. Monday through Friday.

NeighborsAirman Kevin P. Woods

recently graduated from basicmilitary training at LacklandAFB in San Antonio. He is a2006 graduate of Crossland, andson of Derrick Woods Sr. ofWoodland Road in Morningside.Jeni Stepanek, formerly of

District Heights, has a new bookout, Messenger: The Legacy ofMattie J. T Stepanek andHeartsongs.It is about her four children,

all of whom died of a rare formof muscular dystrophy, and espe-cially about her fourth child,Mattie, poet, best-selling authorand motivational speaker.Mattie died in 2004, just beforehis 14th birthday. The book’sForeword is by Maya Angelou.Mel Franklin, candidate for

the County Council, District 9,in next year’s election, is hostinga Change-in-Action CommunityRoundtable on Dec. 3, 7 p.m. inthe multi-purpose room atPrinceton Elementary School,off Auth Road at 6101 BaxterDrive. Light refreshments willbe served. He will be runningfor the Council seat now held byMarilynn Bland who cannot runagain.

An unforgettable trip to ItalyIn October, I took a wonder-

ful 10-day pilgrimage to Italywith 22 others. The tour,planned by Father CharlesMcCann and Branahan Tours,began with two days in Milan,the financial and fashion centerof Italy. We continued on toFlorence with its magnificentarchitecture, history and art-work.Our journey took us through

the beautiful Tuscan countrysideto Siena and Assisi, with theirmany shrines to St. Francis, St.Clare and St. Catherine.

Then on to three unforget-table days in Rome, and a Papalaudience, At St. Peter’s Basilicawe attended the deaconate ordi-nation of 30 seminarians, threeof whom are connected to theWashington area.We walked miles every day,

often on cobblestones, up anddown hills (I lost five pounds),toured so many incomparablecathedrals and museums, sawthe Pieta and David, climbed theSpanish Steps, visited thedelightful piazzas (plazas), theColosseum and other amazingruins, had great guides, got goodat buon giorno (good morning)and grazie (thanks), and learnedhow to spend euros (about $1.50to 1 euro).At the Trevi Fountain, I threw

a coin over my left shoulder.Tradition says that means I’ll goback to Rome. Can’t wait.Nomore vacuum leaf collectionIn July the Skyline Citizens

Association (and, I’m sure otherassociations as well) received aletter from PublicWorks inform-ing us that the Vacuum LeafCollection Program would beterminated.The letter goes on to state:

“Rather than raking your leavesto the curb for vacuuming in thefall, you will now bag yourleaves and take them to the curbfor collection on your regularlyscheduled yard waste days.Leaves will be collected if theyare placed in securely tired,heavy-duty paper or plastic bags,or heavy-duty trashcans withhandles that are secured with alid.Cardboard boxes are not

acceptable containers and willnot be picked up.Of course, you also will have

the option of mulching yourleaves and/or composting them.”Years ago we used to burn the

leaves in our backyards.Smelled wonderful, but kept thefire department busy.If the “economic downturn”

ever upturns, perhaps we’ll getthe vacuum trucks back,Christmas at theMuddHouseThe Dr. Samuel Mudd

House, in Waldorf, will be openfor its 8th Victorian Christmason Dec. 5 and 6, 11 a.m. to 8p.m.The house will be decorated

as it would have been during theyears of 1860 to 1881. A CivilWar-era Santa and Mrs. Clauswill demonstrate period toys.Civil War re-enactors—Confederates and Yankeesboth—will be tenting on thegrounds, cooking stew over theircampfires. If you’ve never been,this is an event not to be missed.

For more information call 301-645-6870 or 301-274-9358.Christmas shopping?St. Mary of the Assumption

Church, in Upper Marlboro,invites you to their annualChristmas Craft Festival onSaturday, Dec. 5, 10 a.m. to 4p.m. Info: 301-627-4170.May they rest in peace

Roseann M. Bridgman, 71,of Ocean Pines and formerly ofTemple Hills, died Nov. 1. Anative of Mauch Chunk (nowJim Thorpe), Pa., she moved toWashington after high school,met and married a Coast Guardlieutenant, Alfred F. BridgmanJr. with whom she traveled theworld before settling in TempleHills. She was active at St.Philip’s Church and St. Mary’sin Piscataway.After moving, she served as

president of Ocean PinesWomen’s Club, other women’sgroups and Republican organiza-tions.Survivors include her hus-

band, daughter Suzanne Riggs,sons John and Michael, four sib-lings, and eight grandchildren.Edward Arthur Robinson, 90,

retired statistician with theCensus Bureau and longtimeresident of Hillcrest Heights,died Oct. 2.A native of Baltimore, he

served in the Navy duringWorldWar II, earned a master’s anddoctorate in economics atCatholic University, taught at theUniversity of Maryland, andspent 30 years at Census.He was a member of Holy

Family Church, the Knights ofColumbus, Holy Name Society,and several square dancingclubs. His first wife, AnneElizabeth Polinski Robinson,died in 1974. Survivors includehis wife of 20 years, Eleanor“Tobe” Jones Robinson, threedaughters and nine grandchil-dren.Billie Berry Taylor, a 1964

graduate of Suitland HighSchool, died Nov. 4. Sue StineMason e-mailed me this sadnews.MilestonesHappy birthday to Herbert

Hanson and Andrew Boone,Nov. 20; Linda Cullinan andBrea Sandy-Hanson, Nov. 21;Dolores Steinhilber and SharonMcKlveen, Nov. 22; LeslieGreene, Nov. 23; BenGryskewicz and Mike Waby,Nov. 24; Ray Call, AvannaWilliams and AndrewGryskewicz, Nov. 25; and DarrylMoss, Nov. 26.

Happy anniversary to Pauland Sharon Locke on Nov. 22.

ANNIVERSARY CELE-BRATION

The Ushers of NottinghamMyers United MethodistChurch located at 15601Brooks Church Road, UpperMarlboro, MD 20772 Rev.Daryl L. Williams, Pastor willbe celebrating their 41stUsher’s Anniversary on SundayDecember 13, 2009 at 4:00 PM.

Our Guest Speaker will beRev. Dr. Priscilla Boswell fromAsbury United MethodistChurch at 4004Accokeek RoadBrandywine, Maryland.

Our Ushers’ PrayerBreakfast will be Saturday,December 12, 2009 9:00 AM atImmanuel UMC Hall. Theaddress is 17400Aquasco RoadBrandywine, MD 20613.

Donation is $15.00. Ourspeaker will be Rev. Daryl L.Williams from NottinghamMyers Church. Please contactAudrey Johnson at 301-888-2153 or Church Office at 301-888-2171 for additional infor-mation.PRINCE GEORGE’SCOUNTY PUBLICSCHOOLS

Important dates to remem-ber are Friday December 18,2009 Second Quarter Progress

Report released. December 24and December 25 (Thursdayand Friday Christmas Holiday).December 28-30 (Monday-Wednesday Winter Break andschools are closed for studentsand Teachers.BRIDGES LLC

BRIDGES LLC is a TutorialService and HomeworkAcademy. The extended schoolday program service childrenand their parents. The Academyensures an academically suc-cessful and well- rounded stu-dent.

The focus of BRIDGESLLC is to mentally preparechildren through rigorousinstruction of basic enrichmentskills and homework assis-tance. Students will be trainedto be academically successfuland independent.

BRIDGES LLC is located at9678 Pennsylvania AvenueUpper Marlboro MD 20772.For more information pleasecontact 301-643-8139 or 301-643-1419.PUBLIC HEARINGS

The Prince George’s CountyBoard Of Education nextPublic Hearing to solicit com-munity input on the

Superintendent’s proposed planfor Phase Two boundarychanges would be TuesdayDecember 1, 2009. Citizensmay sign up or speak by calling301-780-5905.

The location of the PhaseTwo Boundary Change hearingwill be held at FrederickDouglas High Scholl at 8000Croom Road Upper Marlboro,MD 20772.RSV PROGRAMThe Prince George’s County

Department of Family ServicesRSV Program call to volun-teers—You are needed. TheRSV Program need volunteersfor a variety of interesting andrewarding assignments.

Some of the assignments arevisiting isolated senior citizensin nursing facilities, helpingwith Disaster Preparedness,learning to be a puppeteer tohelp children deal with theissue of bullying. Discovermany other fascinating volun-teer projects.

Contact Pamela Sharps withthe RSV Program VIA e-mail:pdsharps@co.pg.md.us or at(301) 265-8486 to get moreinformation about the volunteerassignments available in yourcommunity.

Congresswoman EdwardsApplauds Investments inEducationIn February, President

Obama signed the AmericanRecovery and ReinvestmentAct of 2009 (ARRA) into law.This historic legislation, sup-ported by CongresswomanDonna F. Edwards (D-MD), isdesigned to stimulate theeconomy by making signifi-cant investments in severalnational priorities, includingeducation. A component ofthe investment in education isthe Race to the Top Fund, a$4.35 billion competitivegrant program. This initiativeencourages states to apply forcritical funding to supportinnovative programs toreform and improve educa-tion, encourage studentachievement, increase gradu-ation rates, and explore othereducational reforms.“The Race to the Top Fund

is the latest effort by the fed-eral government to take a crit-ical step forward to invest andsupport the educational infra-structure of this country,” said

Rep. Edwards. “I applaudefforts by the Department ofEducation to encourage dis-cussion of real reform, lead-ing to changes throughout thenation’s educational systemthat will help children receivethe highest quality education,while also closing achieve-ment gaps that threaten thefutures of many children inthe Fourth CongressionalDistrict and across the nation.The Race to the Top Fund is atremendous opportunity that Ihope Maryland will takeadvantage of to improveschools throughout the state.A quality education is criticalfor a child to be competitivein a 21st Century global econ-omy, and will determine thefuture competitiveness andlong-term economic successof this nation.”The Fund encourages

schools to implement plans infour core education reformareas:Preparing students to suc-

ceed in college and the work-place in order to compete in a

global economy;Developing data systems

that measure student growthand instruct teachers and prin-cipals on how they canimprove on education meth-ods;Recruitment, training, sup-

port, and development ofteachers and principals; andReforming low-perform-

ing schools.The Final

Notice/Invitation forApplications for the Race tothe Top will be posted in theFederal Register onNovember 18, 2009.For additional information,

including the application,please visit:http://www.ed.gov/progra

ms/racetothetop/index.html

Congresswoman Donna F. Edwards’ Legislative Update

It is my hope that everyonehas a wonderful Thanksgivingwith their family and friends andthen that you all have fun onBlack Friday spending money onholiday gifts.Medi-care First Blue Cross

and Blue Shield has arranged adiscount program through TruHearing that offers Medi-CareFirst members digital hearingaids at a reduced price.This program includes free hear-ing screening, a three-year war-ranty, a free one-year supply ofbatteries,with 12-month no inter-est financing available uponapproved credit.This is something we have

been waiting for for quite awhile.Chapman State Park is having

their next Open House onSunday, December 13, from 1 to4 P.M. This will be "AnAntebellum Christmas", withperiod decorations, costumes,and refreshments. The handbellchoir of Good SamaratianPresbyterian Church in Waldorfwill perform at 1:30 P.M. and awinter nature walk to thePotomac will take place at 2:30P.M. There will be a Civil War

doll display under the Christmastree for your enjoyment.Directions to Chapman StatePark: Take Route 210 andbetween Bryans Road and IndianHead, turn at the Park sign whichis 3452 Ferry Place. For moreinformation, call 301-753-6754or go to chapmanforest.org.Govening magazine has

released the list of PublicOfficials of the Year, andGovernor O'Malley was chosenas part of that list. They sayGovernor O'Malley is a numbersguy. The data-driven approach topolicy and adminstration that hecreated as mayor of Baltimore,known as "CitiStat" has beencopied by cities across the coun-try. As governor of Maryland,O'Malley is showing that states,too, can improve performance bymeasuring what they do andrelentlessly monitoring theirprogress. O'Malley has ener-gized efforts to reduce pollutionin the Chesapeake Bay by creat-ing "BayStat". His team foundthat virtually every state agencyhas at least a small role to play incleaning up the Bay. For eachagency involved, key data havebeen collected, and managers are

grilled about their progress. Hesays, ":there are 27 core actionsthat we are taking on baycleanup, so you map these stepsout and they are all connected toone another to create a healthierwhole." Public Safety DirectorGary Maynard says "the focus iscoming together and workingtogether and there is no questionit is making a difference."The Maryland Senior

Prescription Drug AssistanceProgram helps eligible seniorsand others on Medicare Part Dwith their prescription drug cov-erage.To qualify for this subsidy,

you must be a resident ofMaryland, be enrolled in aMedicare Part D or MedicareAdvantage Prescription DrugPlan, and have a total income ofless than $32,490 for an individ-ual or $43,710 for a couple. Formore information, call 1-800-215-8038.Wednesday, December 16, is

the date for the next Glitz, Glamand Glow seminar put on by theeWomenNetwork at TerriParent's home in Great Falls, VA.Call 866-662-0562, ext. 4.

This is as much of an updateon what the latest developmentsare concerning the redevelop-ment of the former SuitlandManor complex that Ipromised. Redevelopmentplans are still being discussed atthe Maryland Park andPlanning Commission and inour community. No new newson the Multi-Use Town Centerthus far. However, there areplans underway for new apart-ment complexes on Silver HillRoad. We are expecting a pre-bid conference on the redevel-opment of the Suitland ManorComplex, probably in February2010. The Suitland TechnologyCenter (formerly Dino's) onSuitland Road is also movingforward. As additional updatescome forward, you will be keptinformed.Suitlanders should be aware,

if you aren't already, that manyof elected officials will not beeligible for re-election in 2010since their 2-year terms will beover. The Prince George'sCounty Board of Education willalso be elected next yearinstead of appointed. Membersof Congress, County CountyExecutive, State's Attorney,State Senators and Delegateswill be up for election. Manyof the candidates for some ofthese positions have not regis-tered with the Board ofElections, so you will not havean immediate list of candidates.The candidates have until July2010 to register their candida-cy. From now untilthen,citizens will inundatedwith promises and pleas foryour vote. As citizens, weshould not not take the respon-sibility of voting lightly this

time.Already, we are experienc-

ing problems from making badchoices in our last election.Please do some research on thefuture candidates so that ourchoices this time will yield bet-ter political choices next year.

Happy Thanksgiving to allof you!

FILE PHOTOSamuel H. Dean

November 26 — December 2, 2009 — The Prince George’s Post —A3

COMMUNITYPracticalMoney Skills

By Jason Alderman

Make CharitableContributions Carefully

Getting the most bang foryour buck is a badge ofhonor these days, whetheryou're car shopping, choos-ing a college or just compar-ing loaves of bread. One areawhere you really don't wantto misspend your hard-earned dollars is charitabledonations.

There is no shortage ofnon-profit organizationscompeting for contributions,but quality and effectivenessvary significantly, so youshould do a little research before donating your time ormoney. Here are a few suggestions:

Pick the right cause. Many people prefer to support orga-nizations that champion issues close to their heart, whether it'sfeeding the hungry, environmental protection or working tocure a disease. Also consider whether you want to target localorganizations or prefer to have a more national or globalimpact.

Familiarize yourself with their operations. Study the orga-nization's website, annual report and mission statement.Speak to staff members or volunteers, or volunteer there your-self. Or, if you know someone who has used their services,ask for impressions of the organization's efficiency and clienthelpfulness.

Do your homework. In these tough times, many non-prof-its are experiencing increased demand for their services in theface of declining contributions and government funding.Avoid charities that spend heavily on salaries, advertising,fund-raising and other administrative expenses (sometimesmisreported as "program development," "public education" orother euphemisms). Ideally, at least 75 percent of contribu-tions should go directly to beneficiary programs.

Several online rating services can help with your research:Charity Navigator (www.charitynavigator.org) rates more

than 5,400 large charities by financial strength and revenuespent on programs and services. They offer helpful "Top 10"lists and a well-structured "Tips and Resources" section. Youcan use their guidelines to formulate your own inquiries forsmaller organizations not included in their ratings.

GuideStar (www2.guidestar.org) rates more than 1.8 mil-lion IRS-recognized, tax-exempt organizations. Their basicsearch engine is free; or you can order more customizedresearch for a fee. The site also features helpful questions toask and tips for choosing a charity.

The Better Business Bureau (www.give.org) rates whetherorganizations have met its standards of accountability, includ-ing ethical conduct and honest solicitation practices.

Be tax-smart. Although your kids' little league may be aworthy cause, be aware that only contributions made to orga-nizations identified in IRS Publication 78 qualify for taxdeductions. Visit www.irs.gov/charities/contributors for a linkto a search engine of qualified charities, as well as informa-tion on how to report and substantiate charitable deductionsand other helpful tips.

Be on fraud alert. Unfortunately, some unscrupulous peo-ple and organizations will take advantage of your desire tohelp others – if you let them. A few tips:

Ask for a copy of the organization's IRS Form 990, whichdetails how contributions are spent.

Be suspicious of telemarketing and email solicitations.When in doubt, hang up and contact the organization yourself.

Be aware that scammers often choose names that are simi-lar to those of legitimate organizations.

Never give out personal or credit card information unlessyou initiate the contact.

More people than ever need our charitable assistance. Justbe sure you're contributing to organizations that can do themost good.

Jason Alderman directs Visas financial education pro-grams. Sign up for his free monthly e-Newsletter atwww.practicalmoneyskills.com/newsletter.

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homes by reducing gas, elec-tricity or oil use, thus reducingthe amount of greenhouse gasesa home emits. The stoves arefueled by grain corn -- a toughcorn typically used for feedinglivestock. Kernels are droppedinto the furnace to feed a flame,much like a pellet stove.Most corn stoves can be vent-

ed directly out an exterior wall,so a chimney isn't necessary.Ikle-Khalsa said burning

corn releases no more carbondioxide than is absorbed whilegrowing, preventing excessgreenhouse gases from beingreleased. And unlike fossilfuels, corn is a renewableresource -- and one grown by alocal farmer using sustainablemethods.With co-op members using

anywhere from two to four tonsof corn a season, their corn sup-plies must be replenished often.Members can drive up to a bin,

fill their car with anywherefrom 10 to 20 five-gallon buck-ets of corn -- enough to last oneor two weeks, depending on thehome -- and pay as they go.While some co-op members

use corn as a primary heatsource, others use it just forhard-to-reach areas of thehouse, as does Protect OurPlanet co-op member Bolin.Bolin found his older home'sheating system was expensiveand unreliable. When he heardabout the Mt. Rainier bin beingbuilt, he began researching cornstoves."Once we realized we were

going to be able to pick thisstuff up two blocks from ourhouse, it seemed like a reallygreat idea," he said.Bolin still sometimes runs

boiler heat in his home duringwinter, but finds that the cornstove is enough to get by onautumn nights.Co-op members pay a $100

initial fee and a $25 renewal fee

each year thereafter. Membersmake a deposit at the beginningof the season based on howmuch corn they expect to useand draw from this amount asthey refill their supply.Primary heating with corn

costs members between $500and $1,000 a season, severalhundred dollars less than a stan-dard heating bill, said Ikle-Khalsa. These savings allowmembers to pay off the cost oftheir stoves -- which retail from$1,500 to $4,000, depending onsize -- in roughly five years.More than 20 states now

boast corn stove manufacturers.Despite favorable reviews

from co-op members, AssociateProfessor Robert J. Kratochvil,who specializes in agronomiccrop production at theUniversity of Maryland,College Park, doesn't see cornstove heating becoming a wide-spread trend within the foresee-able future. The availability andcost of the feed corn is too

unpredictable for a large popu-lation, he said.Kratochvil said he believes

the stoves will be more popularin smaller niche communities --like Takoma Park and Mt.Rainier -- that are at the fore-front of eco-friendly living.There is one other co-op in

Maryland -- Baltimore Biomass-- but it functions without a bin.Corn stoves have already

made an impact on co-op mem-bers in Mt. Rainier."When you sit in front of

your corn stove, it's like sittingin front of a fireplace," said Mt.Rainier co-op member JodiBethMcCain, who led the efforts tobuild the Mt. Rainier bin andnow heats her home solely bycorn stove."More than all those rational

reasons -- world peace, goodfor the environment, great forour pocketbook -- it's also beau-tiful and feels wonderful to sitnext to," she said. "I don't dreadthe coming of winter anymore."

Corn from A1

Annual Police Appreciation DayHeld at District V Police StationThe communities that make

up Police District V hosted theirthird annual Police AppreciationDay as a demonstration of theirsupport for the officers thatserve them daily. Residentsbrought a smorgasbord of foodand two large cakes with thecounty Police Department’s mis-sion statement imprinted on twolarge cakes, “One Team, OneMission”The officers that make up

Police District V have nurtured aclose relationship with the com-munities they serve. Residentscame from as far south asAquasco’s Eagle Harbor, as wellas from Clinton, Rosaryville,Upper Marlboro, on up toPiscataway where the District Vborders the 4th District.Residents expressed how

much the officers mean to them,noting how the image of thepolice force has changed fromthe difficult days of the 1960sand 70s when the police-com-munity relations was marked bydistrust.“It gives us an opportunity to

show the officers how much weappreciate what they do for us.This is a wonderful partnership.One like none other we’ve everseen before and the police offi-cers are very receptive to ourefforts to help them. This is justto say that we are grateful,” saidCarolyn Lowe, Co-Facilitator,of the District V Coffee Club.The group is composed of mem-bers of civic and homeownersassociations within District V,along with businesses and youthgroups.“I’ve been in Prince George’s

County most of my adult lifeand the demographics werequite a bit different when I firstcame here, said Lowe. “My kidswere among the first childrenwho were in integrated schoolsin Prince George’s County. Thewhole county has come a longway. I think that we havebecome more sensitive to eachother. I think that the culture ofPrince George’s County is much

improved and the culture of thepolice department is muchimproved.”Katherine Taggert-Ross, a

citizen activist and a candidatefor the 9th District CountyCouncil seat, has a special sensi-tivity to police-community rela-tions in the county. She is also aretired Washington, DC policeofficer. “Police officers sign upto give their life to public serviceand not only do they give theirlife to public service, they canalso lose their life,” saidTaggert-Ross. “So that whenyou have an appreciation fromthe community, from those whothey serve, they are very appre-ciative. It’s more than just a paton the back. It’s more than say-ing thank you. It’s saying thankyou for protecting me. Thankyou for serving me. Thank youfor being my neighbor and a partof my community.She’d like to see the county

utilize the services of retiredofficers, similar to the programnow in place in the District. InWashington, the retired lawenforcement officers are able toretire and to come back underfederal legislative policies. Theydon’t get the salaries that theyreceived when they were on thedepartment, but at a reducedsalary, they are able to utilizetheir experience, their formertraining, and can serve as train-ing officers for new recruits. Italso frees up younger officers todo more work on the streets, shesaid.“In terms community police

relations, like any relationship.It’s a matter of trust. It’s a matterof confidence. It’s a matter offaith, said Major David Morris,Commander of the District VPolice Station. “None of thatdevelops over night.Relationships, whether its policeand community, like any otherrelationship develops over timeand it develops because peoplehave mutual respect for oneanother.” said Major Morris.The support of the communi-

ty is important to the officersand Major Morris vision for thateffort is substantial. “I think,

what any police officer shouldwork towards is if we approachour job every day from the posi-tion that we’re going to put our-selves out of a job because we’regoing to eradicate crime, that isultimately what we are here todo is to serve the citizens andour service to the citizens is toprovide them a level of protec-tion that they feel comfortableand confident in their communi-ty. The only way to do that isreduce the fear of crime and theonly way to reduce the fear ofcrime is to eradicate it”The involvement of youth in

the community is a key part oftheir efforts. “It’s going to takeeverybody to make this a livablecommunity the way the countyexecutive envisioned it for us,”said Captain Craig Howard,Assistant Commander ofDistrict V. “In our community,the African-American commu-nity, there are more young peo-ple that see the police as familymembers, moms, uncles, broth-ers, cousins than maybe 20 to 25years ago when they would nothave seen as many people thatlooked like them. That is a goodthing because they are seeingpeople that raised them and that

nurtured them as police officers.That’s bridging the gap of dis-trust between the communityand the police department.”“It’s got to be a partnership,”

he said. “Young people have gotto understand that we are here todo our jobs and they are a part ofmaking this a livable communi-ty for everybody. We all have apart to play in this and there’sgot to be dialogue, continuously.As part of that effort, on

Saturday, November 14th, theentire Prince George’s CountyPolice Department hosted itsfirst annual “Youth Explosion,”at Eleanor Roosevelt HighSchool in Greenbelt. The eventhighlighted the PoliceExplorer’s program, and otheranti-gang and violence initia-tives, with the goal of reducingcrime by juveniles. The eventincluded performances, prizesand giveaways for participants.“It is important to let young

people know that law enforce-ment is also an honorable pro-fession for them to go in to,”said Captain Howard. “In orderfor us to be guardians of ourcommunity, we are going toneed them in the future.”

By Bianca P. FloydSpecialtothePrinceGeorge’sPost

PHOTO BY BIANCA P. FLOYDOfficers being served

AHealth reform bills pendingin the House and the Senatewould make millions of childrenworse off after health reform thanthey are now.This must not happen. TheHouse bill eliminates the success-ful Children’s Health InsuranceProgram (CHIP) in 2013 andwould move millions of childrenwho had been in CHIP to a com-pletely new, untested and farmore expensive Health InsuranceExchange where parents will endup paying more for their childrento receive fewer assured benefits.The Senate Finance Committeebill keeps the CHIP Program,saving billions of dollars in theprocess, which should be invest-ed in making CHIP even better.The Director of theCongressional Budget Officesays that covering children inCHIPcosts taxpayers far less thancovering them in the Exchangeand is a better way to ensure chil-dren affordable health coverage.The President says we ought tobuild on what works. I stronglyagree. Let’s keepCHIP, guaranteeit for all eligible children, andmake it work simply and justlyfor children in every state.Children need an effective

national health safety net.Congress can and must provideit now. Children cannot wait,and meeting their health andmental health care needs shouldnot only not be debatable, butshould be the first and mosturgent priority in a wealthy,decent and sensible nation.Their brains and bones and spir-its are being formed right now.Yet this day, 78 babies will

die before their first birthday;964 will be born at low birth-weight; 2,224 will be born with-out health insurance; and 2,222children will drop out of highschool, many because theycould not see or hear the teacheror sit still due to an undiagnosedattention deficit disorder ormental illness. And this day,thousands of children all acrossAmerica are being inappropri-ately detained in costly juveniledetention facilities becausecommunity based mental healthservices were not available toaddress their special needs.Children should not have to beincarcerated to get mental healthcare. And no child should haveto wait until they are 65 to getthe health safety net senior citi-zens rightly enjoy.Final health reform legisla-

tion must include a comprehen-sive, affordable and accessiblechild health system whereverchildren live. Every adult musturge your Senators to build onwhat works for children bykeeping CHIP and supporting

expansions and improvementsto it when the Senate healthreform bill goes to the floor.Senator Bob Casey (PA) hasstepped up as a strongChampion for Children’s Healthand will introduce a criticalamendment on the Senate floorto: (1) end the bureaucratic bar-riers that now keep 2 out of 3 ofthe more than 8 million unin-sured children already eligiblefor CHIP or Medicaid fromactually getting the care theyneed. Older Americans are auto-matically covered by Medicare.Children also need a simple,seamless enrollment process toassure they can get health cover-age and keep it; (2) guaranteeevery child access to the fullrange of health and mentalhealth benefits they need includ-ing preventive and specializedservices now provided to allchildren in Medicaid but not tomillions of children in CHIP;and (3) eliminate the unjust lot-tery of geography and require anaffordable national health safetynet for children in all states infamilies with incomes below300 percent of the federal pover-ty level ($66,150 for a family offour). Twenty-two states and theDistrict of Columbia havealready reached this goal of cov-ering children up to 300% ofpoverty; two states exceed thisgoal. All children’s lives are ofequal value wherever they livein America.Children only get one chance

at childhood, and we adults mayonly have this one chance in ourlifetime to help pass health carefor all with comprehensivehealth reform that will help allchildren survive and thrive. Our

nation must not continue to sac-rifice millions of child and youthlives to preventable sickness anddeath and to a costly prisonpipeline that is grinding up theprecious and sacred seed corn ofAmerica’s future. We will reapwhat we sow, and if we invest inour children now we will gainstrong adults who are healthy,educated and prepared to leadand compete in our globalizingworld. This makes moral sense,common sense and economicsense.We adults are responsible for

ensuring children better livesand a fairer nation than weinherited. People of faith arecalled to speak out for those whocannot speak for themselves andto reflect God’s special concernand priority for children andthose who are poor and mostvulnerable and excluded. Whenyour Senators are at home overVeteran’s Day recess, let themhear a mighty noise from youthrough phone calls, visits,emails, letters, communitymeetings, and whatever else youcan think of. Tell them to keepand fix the effective and costeffective CHIP program and notto hand over millions of childrenwho were in CHIP to an untest-ed and far costlier Exchange dri-ven largely by insurance compa-nies who will profit at theexpense of our children’s well-being. This is wrong for childrenand for taxpayers. SupportSenator Casey’s amendment toprotect children on the Senatefloor and insist your Senatorscommit to voting for it.For more information go to

the CDF Action Council’s web-site, www.cdfactioncouncil.org.

Child Watchby Marion Wright Edelman

A4 — November 26 — December 2, 2009 — The Prince George’s Post

COMMENTARY

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Adults! Stand Up and Help Prevent Millions ofChildren From Being Worse – Rather Than Better –Off After Health Reform

Open to the PublicThe Prince George's Ballroom features a grand art deco ballroom and a large brick patio withbreathtaking views of the adjoining golf course and distant hills.The Ballroom, with its spectacular wood floors, brass chandeliers and french doors leading to acontemporary sun porch, is an excellent venue for weddings, receptions, and corporate meetingsand seminars. The peaceful atmosphere, gorgeous sunsets over the adjoining hills, and lush sur-rounding woodlands offer the perfect setting for any event.Amenities include tables and chairs, a large commercial warming kitchen, ample free parking, andwheelchair accessibility. Licensed and insured caterers accepted. For fees and availability, pleasecall 301-341-7439.

The Prince George s Ballroom

House Bill Offers Health CareAffordability and StabilityThe most common question I hear in discus-

sions about health insurance reform is whatimpact it will have on individuals and their fam-ilies. The answer is – whether you currently havehealth insurance or not – the reforms in theAffordable Health Care for America Act whichpassed the House last week will benefit you in anumber of ways.In general, it will mean greater stability and

affordability for the middle class and small busi-nesses. It will offer greater security for ourseniors with stronger benefits and better access tocare. It will ensure we uphold our responsibilityto our children by not adding a dime to the debtand event reducing the federal deficit over thenext decade and beyond. And it includes signifi-cant new consumer protections to improve thequality of care and ensure that you and your doc-tor – not the insurance companies – are in chargeof your health care decisions.The Affordable Health Care for America Act

will rein in rising health costs by introducingcompetition that will drive premiums down, cap-ping out-of-pocket spending, ensuring no morecopays for preventive care and no yearly caps onwhat your insurance company will cover, andproviding premium support for those who needit.For the 76% of Marylanders who obtain

health insurance through their employer, thesereforms will improve their standard of coverageand work to contain health care costs. In addi-tion, there will be a new Health InsuranceExchange - or marketplace – to give more peopleaccess to affordable coverage that will signifi-cantly rein in the average $1,100 in extra premi-ums families pay each year in uncompensatedcare. The nonpartisan Congressional BudgetOffice (CBO) estimates that the Exchange willsave taxpayers tens of billions of dollars.The House bill will also give small businesses

health coverage choices they currently don’thave. The Exchange will give 13,900 Marylandsmall businesses access to affordable health carecoverage for their employees, with 12,100 ofthose qualifying for tax credits to help financethat coverage. Reform will also mean the elimi-nation of health status rating that currently results

in higher premiums for small businesses basedon their employees’ health.The legislation will also work to shift the

focus from treating sickness to promoting well-ness by eliminating out-of-pocket costs for rec-ommended preventive services, strengtheningcommunity-based wellness services, and reward-ing primary care.And it will improve quality by ensuring that

doctors and patients—not insurance compa-nies— are making health care decisions. Morefamily doctors and nurses will enter the work-force—helping guarantee access. It moves ustoward a system rewarding the quality of care—for instance through accountable care organiza-tions and medical homes.For seniors, the bill will improve Medicare:

extending Medicare’s financial solvency by 5years; improving coordination of care and reduc-ing errors for seniors with conditions like highblood pressure and diabetes; eliminating the pre-scription drug “donut hole” coverage gap over aperiod of years; and providing free preventivecare and wellness check-ups.Finally, the bill works to install greater effi-

ciencies in our health care system to lower costsover the long term. The House bill rewards carethat prevents hospital readmissions, promotesdoctors working together to coordinate your carebetter, cuts waste and fraud, invests in preventionand wellness, strengthens primary care, andreforms reimbursement to provide incentives forthe quality, not the volume, of services.Failure to enact health reform has resulted in a

rising sense of insecurity for Americans whohave health insurance and a growing crisis forthose who don’t. Climbing costs and a lack ofguaranteed access to affordable coverage havetaken a toll on individuals and families, smallbusinesses and taxpayers. Without reform, fami-lies can expect another $1,800 in annual premi-um increases, businesses will face double digitincreases and health care costs will consumeeven more of our tax dollars.Whether you have health insurance or not –

reform will give you the peace of mind of afford-able, quality health care you can count on andthat can't ever be denied.

Historic Health Care Bill Passed inHouse, Now Senate Must ActAfter winning this year's American League

Eastern Division championship, the New YorkYankees faced a gauntlet of 11 more gamesbefore they could claim their 27th World Seriestitle. Each playoff victory took the team closer toits final goal, but as Yankee legend, Yogi Berraonce said, "It ain't over till it's over." The samecan be said about health care reform. OnNovember 7th, theAmerican people won the firstround of their health care championship serieswhen the U.S. House of Representatives passedthe Affordable Health Care for America Act,which would extend health care coverage to 96%of Americans and guarantee stability, lowercosts, and higher quality while strengtheningefforts to address racial and ethnic health dispar-ities.It was an historic achievement, marking the

first time that any chamber of Congress has everpassed comprehensive health reform. And itcould not have happened without the tenaciousleadership of Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the strategicgenius of Majority Whip, James Clyburn or theprincipled participation of the CongressionalBlack Caucus led by its dynamic chairman,Congresswoman Barbara Lee of California.Passage of the House bill was also assisted by anunprecedented Civil Rights Health Care WarRoom effort. This is a grassroots campaign tomobilize public support led by the joint efforts ofthe National Urban League, the NAACP and theBlack Leadership Forum. As reported in the AfroNewspapers, "The 'war room' includes phone

banks, cross-country rallies and the mobilizationof Black radio stations to marshal the votes need-ed…" for real health care reform with a publicoption.These efforts were instrumental in securing

the passage of the House bill, but this was just afirst round victory. The second round involvespassage by the Senate and the opposition promis-es to be even tougher. President Obama has saidthat he wants to sign a final bill before the end ofthis year. But opponents are already gearing up todelay and ultimately defeat a Senate bill. That iswhy we are keeping the Civil Rights Health CareWar Room in operation until we achieve a finalvictory. I urge you to call the war room hotline at1-866-783-2462 to speak to your Senator andmake your voice heard.Health care reform is especially critical to our

communities. People of color are more likely tosuffer and die from chronic diseases like cancer,diabetes and heart disease. At that same time,they are less likely to have health insurance andon average spend more of their income on healthcare.As Congresswoman Barbara Lee has said,

"Grassroots mobilization helped elect the firstAfricanAmerican to the presidency of the UnitedStates of America. Grassroots activism will helpus pass a health care reform with a strong publicoption." We won round one, but we need yourhelp to achieve a final victory. Remember, "Itain't over till it's over."

Cong. Steny H. HoyerHouse Democratic Majority Leader

To Be EqualMarc Morial, President and CEO

National Urban League

BUSINESSNovember 26 — December 2, 2009 — The Prince George’s Post —A5

Business Exchangeby William Reed

Too Big To Fail?

Supporters of slave repara-tions, argue that there is noequal opportunity for AfricanAmericans, nor has there everbeen. Systematic discrimina-tion deprives AfricanAmericans of equal chancesand deserve justice and equalparity. The clear lack of parityin the recent instances ofbailouts for the rich and distainfor stimulus or reparations tothe descendants of slaves. TheBlack American community’spopulation contribution to thewealth of America is too greatto continue failing to addresssuch inequity.

"Too Big to Fail" refers tothe idea that in economic regu-lation, the largest and mostinterconnected businesses areso large that a government can-not allow them to fail becausesuch failure would have a dis-astrous effect on the economy.The US Treasury Department'sTroubled Asset Relief Program(TARP) and associated bailoutsare estimated to eventually cost$27 trillion, yet the nation’sfirst Black President dismissesthe $24 trillion debt owedBlack American descendents.The Presidential acts are para-doxical.

The government dismissesBlacks, yet funds a financialindustry that has historicallybeen an anathema to Blacks:direct involvement in the slavetrade and demonstrated pat-terns of denying African-Americans access to credit andfinancial services.

The cost to Blacks is enor-mous. In terms of net financialassets, the “cost of being Blackin America” amounts to a$94,426 deficit. From theonset, Blacks in America expe-rienced significantly lowerincome and wealth, higher lev-els of poverty, shorter lifespans, among many otherembedded disparities. Whitehouseholds average about$150,000 more wealth thantypical Black families. Totalwealth for White families isfive times greater than that ofBlack families. Such wealthgaps makes it much more diffi-cult for Black families to ownhomes, send their children togood schools, or recover fromeconomic downturns caused byunemployment or illness.

But the American “percep-tion” is that Blacks “are doingalright”. “African-Americansare the most privileged blacksin the world. The notion thatthey should somehow be enti-tled to reparations becausetheir ancestors were brought to

the Americas is intellectuallyabsurd”, say many Americans,both Black and White. Butthey are not experiencing thesame American reality. Nineout of 10 White Americansreject reparations to descen-dants of slaves. Many have aperception that race bias inAmerica has been virtuallyeliminated, and that Blacks areno longer disadvantaged. But,the truth is, Black Americans’standard of living rates in percapita income, life expectancy,political empowerment, familyand community life are at ThirdWorld levels. American percapita income is high but lessevenly distributed than in mostdeveloped countries. The UShas one of the widest rich-poorgaps of the high-incomenations; the bank buy-outsillustrates how the gap contin-ues, and grows.

The deprivation is historicaland institutional. After theCivil War, the U.S. governmentbailed-out slave owners whileit backtracked on practices thatallocated Blacks 40 acres and amule. Governmental policyhas always played an absolute-ly crucial role in determiningthe racial character of the havesand the have-nots in America.It is fair time direct inheritorsthat directly benefited fromwealth gained from slavery, theslave trade, and slavery relatedenterprises, pay reparationsdebts.

Call it ‘a stimulus’, ‘payingoff a debt’, but it’s time to callit “a work in progress. If theFederal Government is goingto prop up the richest of therich, isn’t it time to add up thelosses that Blacks haveincurred during their time inAmerica. The amount of $24trillion is the estimated sumtotal of the worth of all theBlack labor stolen through themeans of slavery, segregation,and contemporary discrimina-tion in today’s dollars. Thisincludes the estimated econom-ic loss for African Americansas a result of legal segregationfor 1929-1969; discriminationfrom the end of slavery in 1865to the end of Americanapartheid in 1969; the amountcontemporary Blacks have lostas a result of discriminationthey experienced seeking tosecure mortgages for homesand businesses. Great wealthhas been amassed on the backsof Blacks, the amount is too bigto continue failing to address it.

(William Reed –www.BlackPressInternational.com)

local law enforcement and thefederal government."The folks from ICE, I need-

ed them for resources,"McLhinney said. "But theyneeded me in the communitybecause I was there for 28 yearsand I knew the crime prob-lems.""For local law enforcement

not to be involved in enforcingillegal immigration ties theirhands," McLhinney said, andhe added that the wrong mes-sage is sent when police offi-cers are told to enforce somelaws, but not others.McLhinney comments came

as part of a panel hosted by theCenter for Immigration Studies,a Washington think tank, andcalled to discuss two recentreports on immigration andcrime by the center'sresearchers.The first report, published

Thursday, uses data obtainedfrom the Department ofHomeland Security and other

government agencies to arguethat immigrants have high ratesof criminality.The Department of

Homeland Security data sug-gest, among other things, that20 percent of federal inmatesare legal or illegal immigrants,and that crime rates are higherin cities with a large influx oflegal immigrants, according toSteven Camarota, the study'slead author and research direc-tor at the Center forImmigration Studies.Camarota said he had not

been able to ascertain thedepartment's methodology incollecting the data, making itdifficult to "get a clear picture"on the relationship betweenimmigration and crime."We leave it in doubt; we

can't really resolve it,"Camarota said.The Immigration Policy

Center, another Washington-based think tank, released astrongly worded statementWednesday to protest the CIS

study's conclusions.The report, the center

argued, "attempts to overturn acentury's worth of researchwhich has demonstrated repeat-edly that immigrants are lesslikely than the native-born tocommit violent crimes or endup behind bars ... CIS's realagenda appears to be to pro-mote the 287(g) and SecureCommunities programs."The Secure Communities

program allows local lawenforcement to simultaneouslycheck criminal records andimmigration status for offend-ers in their custody.The Center for Immigration

Studies reported in October thatthe 287(g) program has beensuccessful in identifying illegalimmigrants with criminalrecords. That report was alsodiscussed at Thursday's panelsession.Lead author Jessica Vaughan

defended 287(g) against criti-cism, saying "there have beenno confirmed instances of racial

profiling."Vaughan called the program

"very successful" and said ithad been "vilified" by its oppo-nents.These opponents, Vaughan

said, have "empowered some ofthe local advocacy groups whoare opposed to 287(g) to bringlegal challenges to some ofthese programs."Vaughan cited the lawsuit

against Frederick County'sSheriff Jenkins as the mostrecent example."These criticisms are not

based on any actual experi-ence," Vaughan said. "They'repurely allegations that haven'tbeen substantiated."Immigrant advocacy group

CASA de Maryland, whichfiled the suit in conjunctionwith another group, disagreeswith Vaughan's assessment."We stand firmly by the facts

alleged in the complaint andlook forward to our day incourt," said CASA de Marylandstaff attorney Sebastian Amar.

Immigration from A1

AAAMid-Atlantic Opens NewBranch Office in BrandywineNew Facility Will Serve The Fastest Growing Area Of MarylandWASHINGTON, D. C.

(November, 2009) – By mostmeasures, Southern Maryland isexperiencing unprecedentedgrowth. In recognition of this,AAA Mid-Atlantic is opening anew state-of-the-art interactiveretail facility today inBrandywine at the crossroads ofthe Washington metro area andthe fastest-growing geographicarea in the state of Maryland.The new facility provides AAAmembers and the motoring pub-lic a full array of insurance,financial and travel services,plus a wide range of discountedattraction and movie tickets, andmuch more.“For more than a century,

AAAhas prided itself on puttingthe needs of its members firstand delivering automotive andtravel solutions that inform, pro-tect and provide significantvalue to their everyday lives,”said Maria T. York, AAA Mid-Atlantic’s Retail DistrictManager. “To this end, we arepleased to announce the open-ing of our new branch location

in Brandywine, which is one ofthe fastest-growing areas in thestate.”With more than 1,000 accred-

ited offices, AAA also hasgrown into the nation’s largestleisure travel agency with morethan $3.6 billion in sales annual-ly. The Brandywine site is afull-service travel agency, pro-viding including travel merchan-dise and insurance and travelmoney. AAA Mid-Atlantic trav-el agents can broker airline andrail tickets and arrange domesticand international cruises, toursales and service, foreign inde-pendent travel, Disney vaca-tions, group travel, and carrentals.

“AAA is universally knownfor its quality and its value to itsmembers, and this new facilitywill equip us to continue todemonstrate that to our newmembers in Southern Maryland,as well as those members whohave belonged for many years,”said Renee Griffith, AAA Mid-Atlantic’s Retail OfficeManager in Brandywine. “To

better serve our membershipand the public, the AAA Mid-Atlantic Largo (Maryland)branch closed this past Fridayand the operations have beenrelocated to the our new loca-tion in the Brandywine.”

The new 3200-square-footstate-of-the-art facility, whichopens today, is located in theBrandywine Crossing ShoppingCenter (15906C Crain HighwaySE, Brandywine, Maryland20613) in the southeast cornerof Prince George’s County.

AAA is the nation’s and theregion’s foremost organization

for all things automotive, insur-ance and travel.AAA Mid-Atlantic advo-

cates on behalf of its nearly fourmillion members in the Districtof Columbia, Maryland,Virginia, Delaware,Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.It provides a wide range of per-sonal insurance, travel, financialand automotive servicesthrough its 50-plus retailbranches, regional operationscenters, and the Internet. Formore information, please visitour web site at www.AAA.com.

PHOTO BY PETE KOSEDNAR COURTESY FLICKRAAAMid-Atlantic is opening a new state-of-the-art interac-tive retail facility in Brandywine at the crossroads.

"We've got to have moreautonomy and more freedomwith regard to faculty andlonger school hours," said Rep.Elijah Cummings, D-Baltimore, who joined theschool tour Friday."We want to get a message

across to Maryland that weshould change," addedGingrich.Duncan, Sharpton, Gingrich,

and Cummings sat down withsmall groups of students at thepublic charter school KIPP-Ujima Village Academy;Holabird Elementary School, a

public school; and HampsteadHill Academy, also a publiccharter school, to ask what theylike about going to school andhow they learn.At KIPP-Ujima Village,

which teaches about 330 fifth-through eighth-graders inNorthwest Baltimore, the stu-dents said they are proud of theireducation and hoped otherschools follow in their footsteps.The school, part of theKnowledge is Power Program,is one of 82 nationwide that usessmall classes and longer schooldays and years to help youngstudents prepare for college.Eighth-grader Joshua Woods

said he thinks that KIPP schools

"won't only change (educationin) the city of Baltimore and thestate of Maryland, but in thewhole nation."Woods added that having

dedicated teachers helped puthim and his classmates on thepath to college."You need special teachers,

teachers who want to teach," hesaid.Sharayna Phipps, also in

eighth grade, said that KIPP-Ujima Village's longer schooldays and years have changedher view about school: "Wecome here to learn. We don'tcome here to play."Students at KIPP-Ujima

Village are in class for up to

nine-and-a-half hours a day andup to three additional weeks inthe summer, according to theschool's web site. Other KIPPschools across the country haveSaturday sessions, butMaryland laws on charterschools prohibit that here."This school is working and

is working extremely well,"said Cummings. He said hehopes that the national attentionwill spread the school's prac-tices to others across the coun-try.KIPP plans a total of three

elementary schools and threemiddle schools in Baltimore.

Schools from A1

financing nuclear power willcome at the expense of cleanerenergy sources, such as solar orwind power."Energy efficient technology

... has a bigger bang for yourbuck than nuclear power," hesaid.But proponents of nuclear

power called the report inaccu-rate."I would take what (the

report) said with a grain of salt,"said Mitch Singer of the Nuclear

Energy Institute, a policy organi-zation for the nuclear technolo-gies industry.Singer cited the need for con-

tributions from multiple, low-carbon energy sources -- includ-ing nuclear power -- if the nationis to curb carbon emissions whilemeeting a predicted rise in ener-gy needs.The Maryland Public Service

Commission in Octoberapproved the ConstellationEnergy-EDF nuclear joint ven-ture involving the constructionof a third nuclear reactor at theCalvert Cliffs plant, according to

the Washington Post.Maryland also is looking at

ways to harness clean technolo-gies.Most recently, Gov. Martin

O'Malley of Maryland, alongwith Govs. Tim Kaine and JackMarkell of Virginia andDelaware, agreed to a partner-ship to encourage the deploy-ment of offshore wind energy inthe region."Maryland has charted a

course to put us on the stage ofnational leadership" when itcomes to combating climatechange, said Ethan Nuss,

Maryland campaign coordinatorwith the Chesapeake ClimateAction Network.And with good reason.Maryland is incredibly vul-

nerable to the effects of climatechange, Nuss said.Sea level rise would affect the

state's natural resources and fish-ing and tourism economy."We owe it to our children

and grandchildren to act in themost decisive manner to solvethe climate crisis," said Nuss."Nuclear power is not that solu-tion."

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Two Prince George’s CountyFire Fighter/Medics receivedEmergency ServicesAwards fortheir quick thinking and actionson a recent incident. Fire ChiefEugene A. Jones presented thepair with the awards onThursday, November 12, 2009,at the Landover Hill Fire/EMSStation #830.On July 11, 2009, at about

10:15 PM, Fire Fighter/MedicKeith Downing and FireFighter/Medic LeonardSimmons, on-board Paramedic830 from Landover Hills, weredispatched to an emergencymedical call involving a diabet-ic patient. Little did theproviders realize that whilejudiciously treating the patient,a house was on fire on the samestreet, totally separate from themedical emergency.Unfortunately, both incidentswere on a dead-end street andthe paramedics were unable toutilize their medic unit to facil-itate the transport. Over sevenpieces of apparatus, havingarrived after the medics, wereblocking their means of egress,and it was not possible to moveany of the apparatus.Downing and Simmons

quickly realized the predica-ment, and were creative in

developing an alternate methodof removing the patient fromthe scene and transporting tothe hospital. Creative, yet noteasy. FF/Medic Downing andSimmons took the patient viastretcher over rough terrain,through the patient’s backyard,over a fenced area, and eventu-ally made their way to an adja-cent street. Once there, theytook custody of another unitwhich was standing-by for theworking fire dispatch, and uti-lized their unit to complete thetransport.The on-duty Paramedic

Supervisor, Paramedic CaptainMary Crampton commendedthe crew and nominated theteam for this award by writing,“Due to their quick-thinkingand their ability to think ‘out-side the box’, the patient wasable to get definitive care in atimely manner.”Fire Chief Jones presented

each of the crew members withan Emergency Services Awardand encouraged them to keepup the good work and resource-fulness they displayed on thisincident. He stated, “Youractions reflect favorably uponyourself and the entireFire/EMS Department.”

Christmas ShowMaryland Christmas Show November 27-29Frederick Fairgrounds, Frederick CountyThis regional favorite is held in seven buildings and big-top tents atthe fairgrounds.Arts and crafts including oil paintings, fine wood-work, fabric dolls, nattily-dressed teddy bears and intricate jewelryare but a fraction of the quality items for sale. Find the perfecthandmade gift for everyone on your list.www.marylandchristmasshow.com

HolidayMarketHoliday Market Saturdays and Sundays, November 28 toDecember 20The Waterfront Promenade, National Harbor,Prince George’s CountyStroll along the waterfront promenade at Maryland’s newest attrac-tion and choose premier handmade crafts, holiday food specialtiesand unique gifts from local vendors and artisans.www.nationalharbor.com

Winter Lights FestivalGaithersburgWinter Lights Festival November 27-28 andDecember 4-January 2, 2010 (Closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1)Seneca Creek State Park,11950 Clopper Road, Gaithersburg, Montgomery CountyThe 2009 festival returns to Seneca Creek State Park for its 14thannual winter wonderland display.A great outing for all ages, par-ticularly if you’ve got children to entertain! Drive through the 3.5-mile light display, or take the open-air trolley.www.gaithersburgmd.gov

Gingerbread House Contest10thAnnual Gingerbread House Contest and Show November 27-December 13Darnall’s Chance House Museum.Upper Marlboro, Prince George’s CountyVisitors can choose a favorite gingerbread house from entries inboth the children’s and adult categories. Winner in each categoryreceives a $250 prize. www.pgparks.com

Victorian ChristmasEighth Victorian Christmas December 5-6, 11am – 8pmDr. Samuel A. Mudd House Museum,Waldorf, Charles CountyIndulge in refreshments, view Civil War exhibits, enjoy periodentertainment and tour the home of Dr. SamuelA. Mudd, thephysician who treated the broken leg of President Lincoln’s assas-sin, JohnWilkes Booth. www.somd.lib.md.us/museums/mudd.htm

MontpelierArts Center Exhibit: PaperFriday, Nov. 5-Sunday, Nov. 29 Daily, 10 am – 5 pmMontpelier Arts Center9652 Muirkirk Road, Laurel 20708A juried exhibition of works on paper by Ed Bisese, MelissaBurley, Lawrence Chandler, Phyllis Evans, Leah Frankel, NichelleFullen, Sherill Anne Gross, Atalante Hain-Kaparakis, ArnoldHurley, Monna Kauppinen, Tom Kenyon, Sarah Laing, Carol Leo,Allen Linder, Theo Linder, Annie King Phillips, Nancy SalomeSanford, Nora Simon, Lynne Slater, Michael Spears, DianeTuckman, TinamValk, Marite Vidales, ValerieWatson, and CurtisWoody. Juror: Susan GoldmanPaper is a program of the Maryland-National Capital Park andPlanning Commission, Department of Parks and Recreation, PrinceGeorge's County,Arts and Cultural Heritage Division and is partial-ly supported by a grant from the Maryland StateArts Council, anagency dedicated to cultivating a vibrant cultural community wherearts thrive, and the National Endowment for theArts, a federalagency that beleives a great nation deserves great art.Reception for the artists: Friday, November 6, 7-9 pmFREE;All ages welcome.301-446-3232; TTY 301-446-6802

23rdAnnualWinter Festival of LightsFriday, November 27 - Sunday, January 3, 2010 5-9:30 pm (daily)Watkins Regional Park301Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro 20774You won’t want to miss this season’s spectacular drive-throughdisplays! Featuring more than a million twinkling lights, the 23rdAnnualWinter Festival of Light is a joyful event for everyone.Please bring a canned good with you for donation to local foodbanks.$5/cars and vans; $15/mini-buses and limos; $25/buses; $10/multi-visit passes for cars and vans. The festival is FREE on December 25.301-699-2456; TTY 301-699-2544

10thAnnual Gingerbread House Contest and ShowFriday, November 27-Sunday, November 29,Thursday, December 3-Sunday, December 6 &Thursday, December 10-Sunday, December 1312 noon-5 pmDarnall’s Chance House Museum14800 Gov. Oden Bowie Drive, Upper Marlboro 20772The creativity and talent of local bakers will delight people of allages. Visitors pick the Viewer’s ChoiceAwards for their favoriteadult and child entries.$1/person301-952-8010; TTY 301-699-2544

FingerWeavingSaturday, November 28 1:30-3:30 pmUpper Marlboro Community Center5400 Marlboro Race Track Road, Upper Marlboro 20772Learn how to finger weave a NativeAmerican sash.Ages 6-13 FREE

TOWNA6 — November 26 — December 2, 2009 — The Prince George’s Post

OUT ON THE

Calendar of EventsNovember 26 - December 2, 2009

"2012"Grade: C+

Rated PG-13 for moderateprofanity, one F-word, abun-dant destruction and devasta-tion, albeit with very little

blood2 hrs., 38 min.

In 2004, Roland Emmerich,having already depicted thedestruction of large parts of theworld at the hands of aliens("Independence Day") andGodzilla ("Godzilla"), uppedthe ante by introducing a newvillain: the weather. "The DayAfter Tomorrow" was less funand, if such a thing is possible,less believable than his previ-ous efforts, but now Emmercih(after detouring into prehistoricidiocy with "10,000 B.C.") haschosen to double down on theMother-Nature-as-terroristangle with "2012," a very long,very loud, and very stupid dis-aster flick that apparentlyaccomplishes what it set out todo, which was to be long, loud,and stupid.

In the unlikely event thatyou are interested, here's thebasic story. The ancient Mayanspredicted that the world wouldend in 2012 (no they didn't,actually, but OK), and nowmodern science has determinedthat, son of a bee, they wereright. Solar flares sending a sur-plus of neutrinos earthward areto blame; "The neutrinos arecausing a physical reaction!" istypical of the scientific mumbo-jumbo deployed in Emmerich'sscreenplay (co-written withHarald Kloser). These ambi-tious neutrinos will cause theEarth's crust to become unsta-ble, leading the tectonic platesto shift around willy-nilly,which will be bad news foreveryone except surfers.

The scientist whose job is tobreathlessly tell the presidentwhat's going on -- ideally byinterrupting an important meet-ing of some kind -- is Dr.Adrian Helmsley (ChiwetelEjiofor). Through a wormyadviser named Anheuser(Oliver Platt), Adrian gets the

ear of Pres. Wilson (DannyGlover), who, like many disas-ter-movie presidents, is nobleand decent and AfricanAmerican. Wilson secretlyinforms the other world leaders-- well, the important ones, any-way; screw you, India! -- aboutthe impending danger. Top-secret plans are made to preparefor the disaster. One key ele-ments of the plan: whatever youdo, don't warn the people!You'll just create panic.

Among the unwarned isJackson Curtis (John Cusack), afailed novelist and divorcedfather who drives a limousinefor a Russian billionaire livingin Los Angeles. While vaca-tioning with his two children inYellowstone -- which they driveto, the 20-hour trip passingwithout comment -- Jacksonmeets a crazy mountain mannamed Charlie (WoodyHarrelson, not really "acting")who broadcasts his end-of-daysconspiracy theories on theradio. Charlie tells Jackson thatthe end is nigh, and that thegovernment has known foryears. Jackson thinks Charliemight be telling the truth afterhe runs into a heavily protectedmilitary installation in the mid-dle of Yellowstone. (And by"heavily protected" I meanthere's a chain-link fence thatsays "keep out," and Jacksonand the kids climb over it.)What are these Army guysmonitoring out here in the mid-dle of nature?

We're about 45 minutes intothe film before things really hitthe fan, but when they do hit,they hit hard. Jackson's limou-sine, apparently as indestruc-tible as a tank but as easilymaneuverable as a bicycle,speeds thrillingly through LosAngeles as it's devastated bycolossal earthquakes. To watchit, you'd think Jackson and hispassengers will be the only sur-vivors. Those passengers, bythe way, are his children (LiamJames and Morgan Lily), hisex-wife, Kate (Amanda Peet),and her new boyfriend, Gordon

(Tom McCarthy). You think it'srough having dinner with yourex and her new guy, imaginehaving to spend the apocalypsewith them.

The thrust of the plot is thatvarious people worldwide aretrying to get to a place where itis believed they will be safefrom the calamities. As is to beexpected from the man whobrought us "IndependenceDay," this will be accomplishedthrough extraordinary coinci-dences that bring the right char-acters together at exactly theright time, through imbuingthem with unlikely skills ("acouple flight lessons" is all youneed to be able to fly a plane!),and through a wanton disregardfor the laws of physics.

Along the way there arenumerous scenes of awe-inspir-ing destruction, much of whichis genuinely impressive interms of size and scale. Makersof disaster movies even 10years ago could only havedreamed of creating this muchmayhem so realistically.Emmerich knows how to parcelit out effectively, too. I mean,it's not just the destructionwe're talking about. You couldpull back to a shot from outerspace and show the Earthexploding into trillions ofpieces if all you wanted was todestroy something huge. Butthat would be the equivalent ofa stripper taking the stage andimmediately ripping all herclothes off. The fun is in thetease: first L.A. goes, then LasVegas, then other cities, thenother countries, one at a time,over and over again -- the strip-per in this analogy was bundledup in a lot of clothing when shestarted -- allowing the audienceto savor each new cataclysm.

That kind of thing is fun,sure -- I like watching stuff fallover as much as the next guy --but for crying out loud, themovie is 2 1/2 hours long. Mostother movies aren't that long,and most other movies haveactual stories and characters todeal with. A hundred and fifty

minutes of senseless mayhem,no matter how slickly pro-duced, gets old after a while,and the plot contrivancesrequired to keep things goingbecome absurdly strained.There isn't a lot in the way ofreal humor, either, unless youlike jokes where a man says tohis girlfriend, "I feel like there'ssomething separating us" andinstantly an earthquake makes ahuge crack appear in the groundbetween them. Then again, atleast the film isn't aggressivelyobnoxious or irritating, the waysuch destructo-porn often is inthe hands of a Michael Bay or aBrett Ratner.

What is a little annoying,however, is the film's final mes-sage, which is that humanitymust work together in order toremain truly human. As somesurvivors have reached safetyand close the gates on the strag-glers, Adrian asks, "Can wereally stand by and watch thesepeople die?" That's funny -- Ithought the whole reason thismovie existed was so we couldstand by and watch people die.Now you're telling us weshouldn't be enjoying it? Ordoes that not apply to "2012"because, after all, despite theendless devastation, very fewindividual deaths of individualpeople were actually shown?Billions of people die in"2012," but mostly just byimplication. I guess that lets usbe entertained by it guilt-free. Ifwe stand by and watch peopledie, though: naughty! Coveryour eyes when you see a body!Focus only on the buildings!

ERIC D. SNIDER'SIN THE DARK

Movie Review“2012"

PHOTOCOURTESYROTTENTOMATOES2012 Pictures: John Cusack,Chjwetel Ejiofor, AmandaPeet, Oliver Platt

Fire Fighter/Medics Awarded for TheirIngenuity

Dear EarthTalk:I’m a travel agent and our

firm has several clients wantingto go with green vendors,including for travel (airline orrental car) and lodging. Ourcompany is supportive so wouldlike to know which airlines,hotels and car rental agenciesare going affordably green?

-- Carol Biggar,via e-mail

Just like every other indus-try, going green has become amantra among airlines, car rentalcompanies and even hotel chains.The fuel crunch of a few yearsago forced all the airlines intobelt-tightening mode and theresults—lower fuel consumptionand fewer emissions—are goodnews for the environment.Boeing, one of the world’s

leading aircraft makers, is doingits part: Its new 787 is some 20percent more fuel efficient thanother big passenger planes.Beyond saving fuel—which alsoreduces emissions—airlines areinstituting in-flight recycling ini-tiatives, incorporating carbon-neutral biofuels, and going paper-less to reduce waste. Continental,British Airways, Singapore Air,American Airlines, JetBlue,Southwest and Virgin are amongthe leaders in the industry-wideeffort to go green, but most air-lines have made huge strides inrecent years to lower their carbonfootprints overall.

With regard to lodging, goinggreen isn’t just for youth hostelsand campgrounds anymore. In arecent survey, upwards of two-thirds of U.S. hotels said they hadenergy-efficient lights and hadimplemented towel- and linen-reuse programs—up from justover half five years ago.According to Budget Travel mag-azine, Accor/Motel6,Intercontinental, Marriott,Starwood, Hilton, Hyatt, BestWestern and Wyndham/Super8have all made huge strides inenergy and water conservation,recycling and green design overthe last few years. Beyond thechains, many independent hotelshave taken up the green baton;you’ll likely find one or more atyour destination via the websiteof the Green Hotels Association.As for rental car companies,

just about all of them offer largeselections of fuel efficient carsthese days, if for no other reasonthan to meet the demands of bothbusiness and vacationing cus-tomers not interested in spendinglots of money on gas. Hertz,Avis,Budget and Enterprise each havelarge fleets of hybrid and/or flex-fuel (ethanol) cars for rent at hun-dreds of airport and in-town loca-tions around the U.S. AdvantageRent-a-Car has pledged to turn100 percent of its rental fleet“green” by 2010.For now, renting a hybrid still

typically costs $5-15 more perday than an equivalent conven-

tional car, but as rental car com-panies bring more of the vehiclesonline, prices should start to reachparity. And if you’re driving along way in the car, you may justmake up the difference in fuelsavings.Travelers to the Bay Area

should keep in mind that SanFrancisco International Airportoffers a $15 credit for renting ahybrid from any of the rental carcompanies operating there.Traveling by any means other

than foot, bicycle or paddlealways takes some toll on theenvironment, but those whowatch their carbon footprints—and stay abreast of which vendorsoffer the greenest courses ofaction—can keep their impacts toa minimum. Stay tuned to web-sites like Go Green Travel Greenfor the latest info on what airlines,

hotels, car rental companies andother travel-related businesses aredoing to green up their industry.

CONTACTS: Budget Travelmagazine,www.budgettravel .com;

Green Hotels Association,www.greenhotels.com;Go Green Travel Green,

www.gogreentravelgreen.com.

SEND YOUR ENVIRON-MENTAL QUESTIONS TO:EarthTalk®, P.O. Box 5098,

Westport, CT 06881; earth-talk@emagazine.com. Read pastcolumns at:www.emagazine.com/earthtal

k/archives.php. EarthTalk® isnow a book! Details and orderinformation at:

www.emagazine.com/earthtalkbook

If there's one thing most of us are not lacking, it's opportu-nities to worry. From economic problems to family issues toour health, there's an endless list of things that can cause worry.

Worrying about real things in our lives it isn't always a badthing, though perhaps not a very enjoyable one. Being worriedperforms a needed function, getting us to focus on an issue and,hopefully, to take action.

But we can also suffer from needless worry. This is worryabout things that are imaginary or out of our control. Suchworry is harmful as it raises stress levels, yet comes fromthings we can do nothing about.

Excessive worry is not only unpleasant and stressful, butcan lead to very real health issues. Worrying stimulates ourbodies to produce various chemicals, such as adrenaline, thatcause physiological reactions, such as muscle tension,increased blood pressure and higher heart rates.

The physical reaction to constant worry can result inheadaches, back pain and stomach problems. There's evidenceit also affects our immune system, leaving us more vulnerableto viruses and bacteria, and perhaps even cancer, and appearsto increase the risk of heart attack and strokes.

So how can you reduce worry in your life? Start by analyz-ing how real the source of your worrying is. If it's somethingover which you have control and can do something about, thenchannel your worry into action. Develop a plan for dealingwith the cause of your worry, and then carry it out.

But if your source of worry is outside your control, it willcontinue to cause you emotional and physical problems with-out allowing you a way to deal with the problem.

Your goal is to stop such needless worry before it takes con-trol of your emotions. One way is to rechannel your thoughts.A simple diversion, such as music, a book, talking to a friendor getting some exercise, can often help. It takes practice torefocus your thoughts away from needless worry, but it can bedone.

Once the worry is under control, then think about how realthe source of that worry is and whether it's something youmight better ignore, rather than letting it control you.

If you find that chronic worry, especially over things youcan't control or influence, is negatively affecting your life, con-sider talking to a counseling professional who can offer a vari-ety of ways to help reduce the worry in your life.

"The Counseling Corner" is provided as a public service bythe American Counseling Association, the nation's largestorganization of counseling professionals. Learn more aboutthe counseling profession at the ACA web site,www.counseling.org.

November 26 — December 2, 2009 — The Prince George’s Post —A7

Taking Steps ToKeep Worry UnderControl

The Counseling Cornerby theAmerican CounselingAssociation

EARTH TALK - Greener Travel and Lodging Options

transferring from Walter Reed,meaning that they would likelynot relocate to the Bethesdaarea.Weighing both the lack of

new Marylanders and the cre-ation of additional traffic,Brown said that Bethesda wasthe one jurisdiction where "theburden outweighs the benefits"of BRAC."There's no doubt about

that," Brown said, adding thatthe responsibility of caring forwounded members of thearmed services was of theutmost importance.To ease congestion in the

area, officials presented numer-ous plans during the meeting,including widening the roadsaround the medical center as

well as improving access forbicycles, pedestrians and thoseusing public transportation.But a large chunk of the

funds to make these projects areality are not available.According to a recent study bythe GAO, Maryland will needto spend an additional $315million to $470 million (on topof $95 million already allocat-ed) statewide on transportationprojects around the medicalcenter, Aberdeen ProvingGround and Fort Meade toaddress traffic problems.Andy Scott, the Maryland

Department of Transportationofficial who coordinates BRACactivities, said the "the picturehasn't changed" since the GAOstudy, and that state and localofficials as well as the militaryare looking for additional fund-ing sources and working

together to meet the most press-ing needs first."We know we don't have

enough money to do every-thing," Scott said, "and we're inthe process of working withlocal governments and stake-holders to prioritize the highestneeds."One source of potential

funds, Scott said, could comefrom the TransportationInvestments GeneratingEconomic Recovery program,which offers grants to state andlocal governments for trans-portation projects through thefederal stimulus package.The state has submitted five

grant proposals under theTIGER program, including arequest for $58 million toimprove intersections aroundthe three sites. But officialshave said that states and locali-

ties nationwide have submitted$56 billion in grant applicationsfor only $1.5 billion in avail-able funding, making potentialgrant funding highly competi-tive. An announcement of grantwinners is expected in early2010.Another potential funding

source is the Defense AccessRoad program, which providesfederal funding for transporta-tion projects around militarysites. Montgomery County hasapplied for $20 million from theprogram to build a pedestriantunnel near the medical center.Officials have received positivesigns that this funding willcome through."Overall our approach

remains the same," Scott said."We're piecing together fundswhere we can get them."

BRAC from A1

PHOTO BYANDREWW. SIEBER, COURTESY FLICKR"Just like every other industry, going green has become amantra among airlines, car rental companies and even hotelchains. Pictured: Boeing's new 787, which is some 20 percentmore fuel efficient than other big passenger planes.”

Fire Chief Awards Deserving PersonnelPrince George’s County Fire

Chief Eugene A. Jones present-ed Letters of Commendationand Awards to several membersat the Department’s StaffMeeting. The meeting was heldat the Largo GovernmentCenter DepartmentHeadquarters on Tuesday,November 17, 2009.Lieutenant Colonel Victor

Stagnaro, EmergencyOperations Commander, waspresented with a DistinguishedService Award by Fire ChiefJones. This prestigious andrarely awarded recognition wasaccompanied by a commenda-tion letter from Chief Jones thatreads:The Prince George’s County

Fire/Emergency MedicalServices (EMS) Departmenthas faced many challenges in2009. From fiscal challenges tolarge scale emergencies, theEmergency OperationsCommand has responded to allof them due in large part to yourgrowth as a leader. As the awardsuggests, you have distin-guished yourself as a leader.You have implemented a newpatient care reporting system, abilling system, commanded oneof the largest rescues in the his-tory of the Department andoperated with a reduced com-plement and budget.??Youractions and efforts as theEmergency Operations

Commander have been remark-able. I have seen your growth asa leader and that growth hasenabled your command tomaintain and, in some areas ofthe County, enhance the qualityof service that the Fire/EMSDepartment delivers to the pub-lic. This Distinguished ServiceAward is presented in recogni-tion of the meritorious actionsyou have taken to keep theEmergency OperationsCommand operating at peakefficiency despite the resourcechallenges you and your com-mand have faced.I appreciate all the hard

work and dedication you haveexhibited. You are growing intothe leader I always believed youhad the capacity for. Thank youfor your distinguished service.Major Rudolph “Rudy”

Thomas was selected as theManger of the Month ofOctober 2009 for his work asthe Special Events Commander.Chief Jones commented,“Major Thomas’ continued dis-play of dedication to service,professionalism and an espirt decorps in ensuring the safety andsecurity for 90,000 Redskinsfans have earned him the desig-nation as the Manger of theMonth.Fire Captain Thomas “TJ”

James was designated as theEmployee of the Month for hisrole in the opening of theNorthview Fire/EMS Station#816. Fire Chief Jones com-mented, “Through CaptainJames’ leadership and dedica-

tion, Station 816 was preparedfor service and through hisexample the station enjoyssome of the highest level ofmoral. Because of his tirelesseffort and leadership it is mypleasure to designate CaptainJames as the Employee of theMonth for October 2009.”The following individuals

were presented with commen-dation awards for their dili-gence and professionalism dur-ing recent changes in theDepartment:Fire Captain Michael J. StavelyFire Captain John R. SteeleFire Lieutenant John E. LazoFire Lieutenant Randy D.RuffinFire Lieutenant Douglas P.SudikFire Fighter/Medic LieutenantEric V. ReithFire Lieutenant Lisa A. ViarsIn making the presentations

Fire Chief Jones stated, “Theprofessionalism you displayand the leadership you providehave been instrumental inensuring the best service isdelivered with the allottedresources. Over the past severalmonths the Department hasundergone unprecedentedchanges. These changes havedirectly affected many areas ofthe Department, and some havedirectly affected your area ofresponsibility. The ways inwhich you managed thesechanges and led personnelthrough it are exemplary andworthy of recognition.”Three members of the

Hazardous Material Team wererecognized for their handling ofan incident at TASCO WaterWorks in Capitol Heights thatoccurred on September 13,2009. The recognition and com-mendation awards came aboutfrom a letter from ThomasShriner, President of TASCOWater Works where he compli-ments service by Craig W.Black, Haz-Mat TeamCoordinator; Phil Baker, Haz-Mat Team Leader; and JamesKey, Lieutenant from Haz-MatCompany #830. In his letter Mr.Shriner wrote, “The level ofprofessionalism and compas-sion shown by your staff wasunbelievable. I cannot expressenough the appreciation wehave for them.”In making the presentation,

Fire Chief Jones sated, “Thisaward is in recognition of yourhandling of a hazardous materi-als incident on September 13,2009, at TASCO Water Worksin Capitol Heights, Maryland.Without your rapid interven-tion, the outcome could havebeen very different. Youractions speak highly of your-self, the Haz Mat Team and theentire Fire/EMS Department.”Fire Chief Jones also acknowl-edged the many dedicated yearsof hazardous Materials Teamservice provided to the citizensand residents of PrinceGeorge’s County by Phil Bakerwith 23 years and Craig Blackwith 22 years of service.

By MARK BRADYPGC/EMS Press Information

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WISHING YOUALLAVERYHAPPYANDSAFE

THANKSGIVINGHOLIDAY!

A8 — November 26 — December 2, 2009 — The Prince George’s Post

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Mid-Atlantic Governors Committo Offshore Wind PartnershipANNAPOLIS, MD

(November, 2009) – GovernorMartin O’Malley, GovernorTim Kaine of Virginia andGovernor Jack Markell ofDelaware agreed today on a tri-state partnership for the deploy-ment of off shore wind energyin the Mid-Atlantic coastalregion.The Memorandum of

Understanding (MOU) creates aformal partnership that willbuild on the region’s significantoffshore wind resources to gen-erate clean, renewable energyand a sustainable market thatwill bring new economic oppor-tunities.“Today marks another

important step towards a cleanenergy future for our familiesand workers. The opportunityfor renewable energy generationthrough off shore wind is out-standing,” remarked Maryland’sGovernor Martin O’Malley.“Our states share many com-mon resources and opportuni-ties. This collaboration willallow us to take full advantage

of these opportunities and poolour collective abilities for notonly a Smart, Green andGrowing Maryland, but a clean-er and more sustainable regionas well.”“With our extensive coast-

line and highly-educated work-force, Virginia is particularlywell-suited to explore offshorewind energy opportunities,”said Virginia Governor TimothyM. Kaine. “In these tough eco-nomic times, it's more importantthan ever that we invest inrenewable energy sources thatwill create jobs and providecleaner, more affordable energyfor our families and communi-ties. One of the best things wecan do to lift ourselves out of achallenging economy today is toinvest in a greener, cleanertomorrow.”“With the only power pur-

chase agreement in place foroffshore wind in the UnitedStates, Delaware is poised to bethe first state in the nation todevelop an offshore wind farm,bringing clean power to the

region and creating hundreds ofjobs,” said Governor JackMarkell. “This agreement willhelp us leverage the resourcesand energy of our three stategovernments to help our regionbecome the true powerhouse forthis important source of renew-able, reliable alternative ener-gy.”Through the MOU, the Mid-

Atlantic States will focus onleveraging resources and infor-mation to bring offshore windenergy to the region, which inturn, will create green jobs forour workers and clean energyalternatives for our families andbusinesses.Immediate tasks under the

MOU are to identify commontransmission strategies for off-shore wind energy deploymentin the region, discuss ways toencourage sustainable marketdemand for this renewableresource and work collabora-tively in pursuing federal ener-gy policies which help advanceoffshore wind in the Mid-Atlantic area.

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BAPTIST

BAPTIST

HIGHER PLACE OFPRAISE MINISTRIESBAPTIST UNITED METHODISTAFRICAN METHODIST

EPISCOPAL

WESTPHALIAUnited Methodist

Church“ACHURCHONTHEREACHFORGOD”

8511 Westphalia Rd.UpperMarlboro,MD

Two Worship Services:8 and 10:30 a.m.

Sunday School: 9:30

(301)735-9373Fax: (301) 735-1844

Rev. Dr. Timothy West, PastorALLARE WELCOME

Web Site: www.westphaliaum.org

WORD OF GODCOMMUNITYCHURCH

“The Church Where Everybody is Somebody andJesus is Lord

4109 Edmonston Road Bladensburg, MD(301) 864-3437

Intercessory Prayer:Sundays - 8:30 a.m.Church School: - 9:15 a.m.

Morning Worship Celebration- 10:30 a.m.Wed. Night Bible Study - 7:45 p.m.Elder Willie W. Duvall, Pastor

FAITH MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCHRev. Dr. Michael C. Turner, Sr., Pastor

9161 Hampton Overlook~Capitol Heights, MD20743301-350-2200~Website: fmbc111.comSunday MorningWorship: 7:30 a.m. & 10:45 a.m.

Communion Every 1st SundaySunday School: 9:10 a.m.Monday Bible Study: 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday Prayer& Praise Service: 7:30 p.m.

“A Church Where Preaching is Intentional; Bible Study is Essentialand Singing is Empowering and Inspirational.”

UnionUnited Methodist Church

14418 Old Marlboro Pike,Upper Marlboro, MDChurch (301) 627-5088

SundaySchool: (Children/Adults) - 8:30 a.m.SundayWorship: 10:00 a.m.

Rev. Kendrick D.Weaver, Pastor

Christ UnitedMethodist Church22919 Christ Church RdAquasco, MD 20608301/888-1316

Sunday Worship Service9:45a.m.

Church School 10:00a.m.Rev Robert E. Walker, Jr.,

Pastor

‘A Bible Based, ChristCentered & Spirit Led

Congregation’6801 Sheriff Road Landover, MD

20785 (301) 773-6655Sunday Biblical Institute:

9:45 a.m.SundayWorship:

7:30 a.m., 11:15 a.m., 6:00 p.m.‘WONDERFULWEDNESDAYS

WITHJESUS’:12 noon (ThePowerHour) and 6:45

pm“A Time of Prayer, Praise,Worship, & The Word”

Dr. Henry P. Davis III, Pastorwww.fbhp.org

BAPTIST

BAPTIST

First Baptist Church ofCollege Park

Welcomes You Where JesusChrist Is Lord and King

Stephen L. Wright, Sr., Pastor

5018 Lakeland RoadCollege Park, MD 20740

301-474-3995www.fbc-cp.org

Sunday School 9:30a.m.Sunday Worship 11a.m.

Holy Communion 1st SundayWednesday Bible Study 7-8p.m.Wednesday Prayer Service 8p.m.

COMMUNITY CHURCH

UNITED METHODIST

Higher Place ofPraise Ministries(FormerlyChristianTabernacleChurch)

A Prophetic Voice for thisTime and Season

Dr. Jacqueline McEwanElder Leander McEwan

Senior Pastors7973 Parston DriveForestville, MD 20747

SundaysMorning Dew Prayer 9:00 amSunday School 9:30 amMorning Worship Service

11:00 amCommunion Every 1st Sunday

11:00 am

Call Church forWeekly Services and Classes

(301) 420-2466

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCHOF HIGHLAND PARK

St. Philip’s Episcopal Church,Baden Parish

13801 Baden-Westwood RoadBrandywine, MD 20613

(301) 888-1536Fax - (301) 888-1202

Sunday Worship Service9:30 a.m.

Feed My Sheep ProgramSaturday’s - 9:00 a.m.

Rev. Vaughan P.L. Booker, Pastor

Mount EphraimBaptist Church

“A Church That’s Alive -Is Worth the Drive”610 Largo Road

Upper Marlboro, MD 20774www.mountephraim.orgChurch Sunday School:

9:15 a.m.Morning Worship:

7:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.Prayer/Praise: Tuesday 7:00 p.m.SalvationClass:Tuesday7:30p.m.New Members Orientation:

Sunday: 9:15 a.m..Baptismal Service:

First Sunday - 11:00 a.m.Church: 301-808-1584Fax: 301-808-3243

Rev. Joseph A. Gilmore, Jr.Pastor

HEMINGWAYMEMORIALA.M.E.

CHURCH“Kingdom Power, through Word,Worship, Work, and Witness”

Acts 1: 86330 Gateway Blvd.,DistrictHeights,MD20747(301) 568-9127

www.hemingway-ame.orgSUNDAYSCHEDULE

8:00 a.m. -Church School8:00 a.m. -DiscipleshipClasses9:00 a.m.WorshipServiceWednesday12:00Noon –NoonDayBible Study7:00p.m. -Pastor’s&YouthBibleStudyThursday7:30 p.m. -Men’sBible Study

Rev. Samuel E. Hayward III,Senior Pastor

Nottingham-MyersUnitedMethodist Church

A Christ Centered Church,With a Christ Centered Message

15601 Brooks Church RoadUpper Marlboro, MD 20772

(301) 888-2171

www.gbgm.umc.org/nnumce-mail:nnumc@msn.com

Adult Sunday School: 8:30 a.m.Youth Sunday School: 9:00 a.m.Sunday Worship: 10:00 a.m.

Pastor: Rev. Daryl L. Williams

EPISCOPAL