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The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission’s Department of Parks and Recreation is an official sponsor of the film Anthem
FREE outdoor concerts at Riversdale
A buffet lunch and the show Grease at Toby’s Dinner Theater
Calling Young Artists – Express Yourselves Outdoors
Star-Spangled Summer Days
FREE Father’s Day Tours of Darnall’s Chance for Dad
FREE (Riversdale) Father’s Day tours for Dad
Juneteenth Program at Watkins Regional Park
Special Exhibit about Al Welsh at College Park Aviation Museum
Rome at Riversdale
A Call for Entries: Express Yourself! – a Teen Juried Exhibition
Zumba class offered for seniors 60 & better
Langley Park Community Center Craft Showcase at Brentwood Arts Exchange
M-NCPPC PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR RONNIE GATHERS APPOINTED TO NATIONAL PARK TRUST BOARD
Enjoy Nature at the Delaware Bay
Storytelling of “Coyote Gets A Cadillac” by Storyteller Susan Strauss

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THROUGH SEPTEMBER 1, 2012
PROGRAM INFORMATION CONTACT: 301-627-2270; TTY 301-699-2544
PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND MARKETING CONTACT: MINDY CAREY
301-446-3315; TTY 301-699-2544

The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission’s Department of Parks and Recreation is an official sponsor of the film Anthem

Greenbelt, MD -The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission’s Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County, MD, announces it is an official sponsor of the film Anthem. The one-hour documentary, which will be broadcast on some Maryland Public Television stations in the fall, focuses on The Star-Spangled Banner and music of the War of 1812. The film is a production of the nonprofit film company Make Your Mark Media, which is located in Adelphi, MD. Filming began in England in 2011.

Musical performances in this documentary feature Maryland’s US Naval Academy Glee Club and the St. John’s College chorus.

The War of 1812 is significant in Prince George’s County’s history. The Battle of Bladensburg is of great historical significance to the country, to Maryland, and to the county. M-NCPPC will be hosting several interesting events tied to the 100-year anniversary of the War of 1812 later this year. For information about M-NCPPC War of 1812 events and programs, visit www.pgparks.com. For more information about the documentary, visit www.anthem1812film.com.

For information about M-NCPPC's future War of 1812 programs, call 301-627-2270; TTY 301-699-2544

NR042.April 2012

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THROUGH AUGUST 16, 2012
PROGRAM INFORMATION CONTACT: 301-864-0420; TTY 301-699-2544
PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND MARKETING CONTACT: MINDY CAREY
301-446-3315; TTY 301-699-2544

FREE outdoor concerts at Riversdale

Riverdale Park, MD - Jazz on the Lawn kicks off at Riversdale House Museum on Wednesday, June 27 at 7 pm. As the sun sets, bring a blanket or lawn chair to Riversdale House Museum’s beautiful grounds, located at 4811 Riverdale Road, Riverdale Park, MD 20737. Enjoy the grass under your toes and the jazz wafting through the air. Pack a picnic or purchase dinner on the grounds before the show courtesy of the Calvert House Inn. Concerts are FREE and run from 7-8 pm. The first concert of the season kicks off on Wednesday, June 27, 2012 with Project Natale. (The rain date is June 28.) Additional Jazz on the Lawn concerts include Cheek to Cheek on Wednesday, July 25 (rain date July 26), and M.S.G. Acoustic Blues Trio on Wednesday, August 15 (rain date August 16).

Arts programs of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission are supported by a grant from the Maryland State Arts Council, an agency funded by the State of Maryland and the National Endowment for the Arts.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THROUGH JULY 19, 2012
PROGRAM INFORMATION CONTACT: 301-699-1238; TTY 301-446-3402
PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND MARKETING CONTACT: MINDY CAREY
301-446-3315; TTY 301-446-3402

A buffet lunch and the show Grease at Toby’s Dinner Theater

Brentwood, MD – Take a trip back to the 1950's when it was cool to be in love! Those ages 60 & better are invited on a trip to Toby’s Dinner Theater in Baltimore to see the musical Grease. This is the story of Danny Zuko and Sandy Olsson and their friends at Rydell High School. You can't have the 50's without diners, greasers and great music! Also enjoy Toby’s delicious buffet luncheon. The bus will leave from Gwendolyn Britt Senior Activity Center (4009 Wallace Road, North Brentwood, MD 20722) on Thursday, July 19 at 10 am and return to the center at approximately 4 pm. Fees are $58/resident and $70/non-resident and include transportation, lunch and the show. Register for SMARTlink program # 886466 online at www.pgparks.com, or by phone at 301-583-BOOK (2665).

For more information call staff at 301-699-1238; TTY 301-446-3402.
NR051412-1

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THROUGH JULY 16,2012
PROGRAM INFORMATION CONTACT: 250-980-3969
PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND MARKETING CONTACT: MINDY CAREY
301-446-3315; TTY 301-699-2544

Calling Young Artists – Express Yourselves Outdoors

Prince George's County, MD April 12, 2012 - The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) is collaborating with The National Park Trust and other organizations to launch the 2012 Get to Know Your Wild Neighbours Contest. Youth ages 19 and younger are invited to submit original works of art - writing, photography, video or music - inspired by the natural world. Head to any of M-NCPPC’s hundreds of parks in Prince George’s County and connect with nature and the great outdoors. Let your creativity flow as you take in the open space, natural beauty, picturesque landscapes and wildlife. Entries may be submitted from now through July 16, 2012. Submit entries and get more details at www.get-to-know.org.

For information, call 250-980-3969.

NR043.April 2012

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THROUGH JUNE 25, 2012
PROGRAM INFORMATION CONTACT: 301-864-0420; TTY 301-699-2544
PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND MARKETING CONTACT: MINDY CAREY
301-446-3315; TTY 301-446-3402

Star-Spangled Summer Days

Riverdale Park, MD - O say can you see! all the fun you’ll have? Step back in time and experience the War of 1812 at Riversdale House Museum! Children, ages 5-8, are invited to enjoy Star-Spangled Summer Days. Experience the lives of soldiers and sailors, the Calvert family, and First Lady Dolley Madison through activities, crafts, and games highlighting the war of 1812.

Star-Spangled Summer Days will be held Monday, June 25-Friday, June 29 from 10 am-12 noon each day. The fee is $15/day or $65/all 5 days for residents of Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties and $18/day or $78/all 5 days for non-residents. Capacity is limited. Advanced registration and payment are required by June 6. Please note the program may sell out before this date.

Riversdale House Museum, a National Historic Landmark, is located at 4811 Riverdale Road in Riverdale Park, Maryland.

For more information or reservations, call 301-864-0420; TTY 301-699-2544.

NR047. April 2012

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THROUGH JUNE 18, 2012
PROGRAM INFORMATION CONTACT: 301-952-8010; TTY 301-699-2544
PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND MARKETING CONTACT: MINDY CAREY
301-446-3315; TTY 301-699-2544

FREE Father’s Day Tours of Darnall’s Chance for Dad

Upper Marlboro, MD – Fathers and grandfathers are invited to enjoy complimentary tours of Darnall’s Chance House Museum on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 17, when accompanied by a paying child or grandchild. No reservations necessary. Darnall’s Chance House Museum, a historic Georgian mansion, is located at 14800 Governor Oden Bowie Drive, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772. Regular admission fees are $3/adult, $2/senior, $1/student and FREE/ages 4 & under. For more information call staff at 301-952-8010.

NR05115

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THROUGH JUNE 17, 2012
PROGRAM INFORMATION CONTACT: 301-864-0420; TTY 301-699-2544
PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND MARKETING CONTACT: MINDY CAREY
301-446-3315; TTY 301-699-2544

FREE (Riversdale) Father’s Day tours for Dad

Riverdale Park, MD - George Calvert was the father to nine children who lived at Riversdale. Five of these children lived to adulthood, including Charles Benedict Calvert, founder of the University of Maryland. Celebrate the special fathers, fathers-in-law, grandfathers, and other gentlemen in your life by giving them a free guided tour of Riversdale House Museum (4811 Riverdale Road, Riverdale Park, MD 20737) on Sunday, June 17 from 12:15-3:15 pm. This offer is limited to one free tour per paid admission. Admission is $3/adult; $2/senior; $1/student and FREE/children 4 & under. No reservations needed!

For more information call 301-864-0420; TTY 301-699-2544.

NR051112-2

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THROUGH JUNE 16, 2012
PROGRAM INFORMATION CONTACT: 301-627-2270; TTY 301-699-2544
PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND MARKETING CONTACT: MINDY CAREY
301-446-3315; TTY 301-446-3402

Juneteenth Program at Watkins Regional Park

Upper Marlboro, MD - Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. From its Galveston, Texas origin in 1865, the observance of African American Emancipation Day has spread across the United States and beyond. Today, Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement.

The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) is delighted to host a Juneteenth celebration at Watkins Regional Park (301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774) on Saturday, June 16 from 12 noon-5 pm. This family event is open to the public and will be held rain or shine. Admission is FREE.

The celebration will feature culturally-inspired dance performances including traditional Afrikan dance with contemporary military movements by Taritibu Youth Association, hip-hop and break dancing by award-winning dance crews EnKore and Raw Element, and tap by Emmy winner Baakari Wilder and the Knock on Wood Tap Studio. Kuumba Kids will perform their creative form of song and dance. Musical performances will again be an important part of this traditional celebration with performances by the Mighty Men of Reid Temple Gospel Choir, the talented Black Notes, known for their unique renditions of African American classic songs, and the Blackbyrds (with founding member Keith Kilgo), who will perform their unique version of jazz fusion. Award winner Diunna Greenleaf, traditional blues Female Artist of the Year, and her band Blue Mercy, will also entertain. Diunna is nominated for the 33rd Blues Music Awards as the Koko Taylor Award-Traditional Blues Female.

Back again is James Thomas, whose extraordinary oratory presentation on the origin and true meaning of Negro spirituals is a popular attraction at this Juneteenth event.

African American heritage groups and exhibitors, the National Children’s Museum, MNCPPC’s Black History Program and others will both educate and entertain visitors. Families will enjoy face painting, the interactive playground at the park, as well as the animals at Old Maryland Farm. Visitors can also ride the miniature train and carousel, and play mini-golf all day for a special Juneteenth discounted fee of $5. Vendors will sell a variety of food.

From 8:30 am-4 pm Watkins Nature Center will again host the Afro-American Historical & Genealogical Society, Inc. and their partners, who have planned a series of exciting lectures and workshops on African American genealogy and history. These sessions are designed to be of interest to both beginning and advanced researchers, as well as those interested in family genealogy. Pre-registration is preferred, but not required. To register for genealogical workshops visit http://pgcm.aahgs.org/juneteenth, or call Carolyn Rowe (301-292-6987) or Jane Thomas (301-292-1207). The Uhuru Quilters Guild will host an African American Quilt exhibit.
The Guild has exhibited at the Corcoran Gallery of Art, the Smithsonian, the Miller Office Building in Annapolis, Maryland, the University of Maryland and now they will exhibit in the Watkins Nature Center open to all Juneteenth visitors.

For information, call 301-627-2270; TTY 301-699-2544.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THROUGH JUNE 13, 2012
PROGRAM INFORMATION CONTACT: 301-864-6029; TTY 301-699-2544
PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND MARKETING CONTACT: MINDY CAREY
301-446-3315; TTY 301-699-2544

Special Exhibit about Al Welsh at College Park Aviation Museum

College Park, MD - In two short years, Al Welsh became one of the most respected pilots in aviation. The impact of his contributions can be felt today. Welsh was the Wright Brothers’ most trusted pilot and their finest instructor. He was the first Jewish American pilot, and the first pilot from Washington, DC to be licensed by the Aero Club of America. One century after his tragic death at College Park, join us as we celebrate his remarkable life. A public reception and symposium featuring speakers, an exhibit (He Taught Me Everything I Know - A Centennial Celebration of Arthur Al Welsh) and the dedication of a commemorative sign honoring his unique place in the history of aviation will be held at College Park Aviation Museum (1985 Cpl. Frank Scott Drive, College Park, MD 20740) on Tuesday, June 12 from 7-9 pm.

This special event is free and open to the public. Minimum suggested donation: $5/person. Please RSVP by calling 301-864-6029 or register online at www.jhsgw.org/programs. This program is presented by College Park Aviation Museum and the Jewish Historical Society of Greater Washington. Program partners include Adas Israel Congregation and the Jewish Museum of Maryland.

NR05114

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THROUGH JUNE 10, 2012
PROGRAM INFORMATION CONTACT: 301-864-0420; TTY 301-699-2544
PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND MARKETING CONTACT: MINDY CAREY
301-446-3315; TTY 301-699-2544

Rome at Riversdale

Legio XX is camping out and once again bringing Rome to Riversdale!

Early 19th century America was greatly influenced by the classical world. Celebrate ancient Rome as you watch ancient battle reenactments with Legio XX, view a catapult demonstration, take part in childrens activities, enjoy refreshments at the Roman capona, chat with reenactors, and more all on the grounds of Riversdale House Museum (4811 Riverdale Road, Riverdale Park, MD 20737)! Inside the historic house, celebrate the neoclassical trends of the 19th century with an architecture scavenger hunt, tours of the house, and more!

Rome at Riversdale runs Saturday, June 9 from 11 am-4 pm and Sunday, June 10 from 12 noon-4 pm. Admission is $5/adult ; $3/student.

For more information call 301-301-864-0420; TTY 301-699-2544

NR051012-1

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THROUGH JUNE 11, 2012
PROGRAM INFORMATION CONTACT: 301-277-2863; TTY 301-446-6802
PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND MARKETING CONTACT: MINDY CAREY
301-446-3315; TTY 301-699-2544

A Call for Entries: Express Yourself! – a Teen Juried Exhibition

Brentwood, MD - This call for entries is open to young artists ages 13-18 with a passion for creating visual art. Brentwood Arts Exchange invites teens from Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Fairfax County, Fairfax City, the City of Alexandria, the City of Arlington and the District of Columbia to submit one original artwork in any media. Of those chosen to exhibit, three will have a chance to win one of three cash awards.

Works submitted for entry will be judged by artist and Corcoran College of Art and Design Associate Faculty member Joey P. Mánlapaz. Exhibition-ready artwork must be delivered in person to the Brentwood Arts Exchange (3901 Rhode Island Avenue, Brentwood, MD 20722) on either Friday, June 8 or Saturday, June 9, 2012. Teens interested in submitting digital media/video are asked to submit a CD/DVD containing an image or video no longer than five minutes in duration. In addition to their artwork, participants are required to provide the gallery with their name, address, telephone, e-mail, title of artwork, media, dimensions and sales price. Submission of an artists statement is suggested. but optional. All participants will be notified of their standing via e-mail by Friday, June 15, 2012.

For more information call staff at 301-277-2863; TTY 301-446-6802.

NR05116

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THROUGH MAY 5, 2012
PROGRAM INFORMATION CONTACT: 301-699-1238; TTY 301-699-2078
PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND MARKETING CONTACT CRAIG KELLSTROM:
301-446-3308; TTY 301-446-3402

Zumba class offered for seniors 60 & better

North Brentwood, MD – If you want heart pumping exercise with great music, attend the Zumba class for seniors 60 & better at M-NCPPC’s Gwendolyn Britt Senior Activity Center, 4009 Wallace Road, North Brentwood, MD 20772.

Seniors interested in keeping their bodies moving to the sound of great music, let your feet take you on a journey to a better you. This low impact class is $10/resident and $12/non-resident. The class meets Mondays 12-1 pm and Wednesdays 10-11 am; classes start on March 5/barcode #739117; April 9/barcode #739118; and May 7/barcode #739119.

For information, call 301-699-1238; TTY 301-699-2078.

Sign up for classes and activities at www.pgparks.com or by touch-tone phone at 301-583-BOOK.

NR022.Feb2012

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THROUGH JUNE 3, 2012
PROGRAM INFORMATION CONTACT: 301-277-2863; TTY 301-446-6802
PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND MARKETING CONTACT: MINDY CAREY
301-446-3315; TTY 301-446-3402

Langley Park Community Center Craft Showcase at Brentwood Arts Exchange

Brentwood, MD - Brentwood Arts Exchange (3901 Rhode Island Avenue, Brentwood, MD 20722) presents its first store-wide event highlighting fine crafts and functional art by the Langley Park Community Center Ceramicists. The event, which runs from April 28 through June 2, spotlights one of M-NCPPC’s Department of Parks and Recreation’s longest-running arts programs. The tightly-knit group of nearly 30 students and teachers offers their works for display and sale in celebration of their long history. Works of group members, who range from beginners to professional artists, will be displayed. The event highlights the partnership between Langley Park Community Center and the Brentwood Arts Exchange. It is no coincidence that this event brings new art into the store just in time for Mother’s Day. As many as 70 new, one-of-a kind items will be added to the current line of crafts, which includes hand-blown and fused glass, metalworking, and textile art. A reception, celebrating this event is planned for Saturday, April 28, 4-7 pm.

For information, call 301-277-2863; TTY 301-446-6802.

NR050.April 2012

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THROUGH MAY 30,2012
PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND MARKETING CONTACT: MINDY CAREY
301-446-3315; TTY 301-699-2544

M-NCPPC PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR RONNIE GATHERS APPOINTED TO NATIONAL PARK TRUST BOARD

Riverdale, MD - National Park Trust (NPT) recently announced the election of five new board members, including Ronnie Gathers, Director of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission’s Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County.

Gathers has been director of M-NCPPC’s Department of Parks and Recreation since 2007, and has been with the agency for 22 years. "I am excited to join the National Park Trust team. As a member of the board's Youth to Parks education committee, I am looking forward to connecting youth in Prince George’s County and across the nation to our valuable natural resources locally and nationally,” said Gathers.

Gathers has long been committed to preserving land for parks and promoting awareness about Prince George’s County’s outstanding parks and recreation venues to county residents and visitors.

As noted on its web site, www.parktrust.org, “NPT’s mission is to preserve parks today and create park stewards for tomorrow. As we spend more time indoors and as successive generations grow up with less of a connection to nature we need to build greater awareness and appreciation for the importance of our country’s public lands and parks.”

For information, call 301-446-3315; TTY 301-699-2544.
NR042.April 2012

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THROUGH JUNE 10, 2012
PROGRAM INFORMATION CONTACT: 301-218-6702; TTY 301-699-2544
PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND MARKETING CONTACT: MINDY CAREY
301-446-3315; TTY 301-699-2544

Enjoy Nature at the Delaware Bay

Upper Marlboro, MD - Join a naturalist at the height of the horseshoe crab breeding and egg-laying season, and watch shorebirds at the Delaware Bay. Adults ages 18 & up are invited to meet at Watkins Nature Center (301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772) on Sunday, May 20 at 6:45 am; the bus will leave promptly at 7 am. Bring a lunch, snacks, drink, binoculars, camera, and money for dinner. Please dress for the weather. We will also visit the DuPont Nature Center and Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge. The fee is $15/resident and $18/non-resident. You may register for SMARTlink course # 876465 on line at www.pgparks.com or by touch-tone telephone; call 301-583-BOOK (2665). The bus will return to Watkins Nature Center at approximately 7 pm.

For more information call 301-301-218-6702; TTY 301-699-2544

NR051112-1

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THROUGH MAY 19, 2012
PROGRAM INFORMATION CONTACT: 301-218-6702; TTY 301-699-2544
PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND MARKETING CONTACT: MINDY CAREY
301-446-3315; TTY 301-699-2544

Storytelling of “Coyote Gets A Cadillac” by Storyteller Susan Strauss

Upper Marlboro, MD - Join us at Watkins Nature Center on May 19, 2012 from 6:30-8 pm for a traditional story telling performance about nature wisdom in a modern world. This storytelling performance will delight young and old alike.
Coyote and some of the world's greatest characters from oral traditions will be brought to life in the language art of Storyteller, Susan Strauss. Susan will tell stories from a variety of cultures, including some of her renowned Native American Coyote Trickster Tales.
The fee is $3/ person, ages 2 years and up. Reservations and advance payment are required. Watkins Nature Center is located at 301 Watkins Park Drive Upper Marlboro, MD 20774.

For information and reservations for Storytelling of “Coyote Gets a Cadillac” by storyteller Susan Strauss, please call 301-218-6702; TTY 301-699-2544.

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