Brandywine-Aquasco
By Audrey Johnson, 301-922-5384
ZAHRA THOLLEY ’25
Zahra advises today’s students that chances to connect are everywhere at Bowie State. “Use your resources. If you’re writing an essay, go to the writing center. If you’re looking for job opportunities, go to the many events on campus like the annual visit by LAIKA Studios.”
Even if a visiting company or organization doesn’t seem like it’s relevant, she says to be bold and go anyway. “I spoke with the creative team from Major League Baseball when they came to campus, and it was amazing to learn about their opportunities.” She also shares more specific advice for creative majors. “Don’t be quick to get rid of your art. Keep it! It’s important to hold on to what you created as far back as your childhood, because you get to see your progress.”
As she moves into the professional world, Tholley continues building her business. She recently returned to campus to perform in senior capstone projects caused by dancers who had been part of her 2025 senior thesis. Looking ahead, Tholley plans to continue growing her business while staying true to the creative vision she developed at Bowie State. “I learned to trust my instincts, embrace creativity and follow the threads of inspiration wherever they lead.” Tagged as Entrepreneurship Innovation Center, Visual Communication & Digital Media Arts, Bulldog Pitch Competition, Writing Center.
SOUTHERN MARYLAND ALUMNI CHAPTER
Southern Maryland Alumni Chapter of Morgan State University will be sponsoring its 21st Blue & Orange Dinner Dance Awards Program. This event is our major fundraiser in support of students from the Southern Maryland area who are or will be attending Morgan. Needless to say, in today’s climate, it remains so important that we try to support them financially and otherwise. The event will be held from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, September 12 at Greater Waldorf Jaycees, 3090 Crain Highway, Waldorf, Maryland 20601.
ST. PHILIP’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH BADEN PARISH
St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, Baden Parish celebrates 150 years of faith and heritage located at 13801 Baden Westwood Road, Brandywine, Maryland and joyfully invites the community to celebrate its 150 Anniversary Homecoming on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at 10 a.m. The celebration will be held at the church. The Anniversary Worship Service will feature The Reverend Rachelle Sam of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington as the guest speaker. “The Spirit of the Lord Is Here” celebration recognizes God’s faithfulness throughout the church’s 150-year history and looks ahead with hope for future generations. Following the worship service, guests are invited to enjoy a light luncheon.
Each year, Homecoming at St. Philip’s is a reunion. It is a celebration of faith, family, and legacy. Members, former members, friends and the surrounding community gather to reconnect with one another while honoring the vision, perseverance, and sacrifices of the church’s founders. Their steadfast faith established a foundation that continues to inspire generations to worship, serve, and share God’s love. Everyone is warmly welcome to attend this historic milestone. Bring your family, invite a friend, and join us as we celebrate 150 years of God’s grace, enduring faith, and the rich heritage of St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, Baden Parish.
CRAB FEAST
All you can eat Crab Feast sponsored by Peter A. Gross Sr. Scholarship October 11, 2026, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Adults $75.00. Children 12 and under $35.00. Advance purchased tickets only. No tickets sold at the door. Menu: Fried Chicken, Hot Dogs, Corn on the Cob, String beans, Tea, Lemonade. St. Philip’s Church Hall, 13801 Baden Westwood Road, Brandywine, Maryland. Ticket Contacts: Shirley Cleaves 302-690-4260, Vivian Rich 804-301-9530, Michele Chase 240-882-3369. Cash or Cash app: $PAGScholarship.
THE CAPITAL WHEEL
Take your adventure to new heights on the Capital Wheel where magic meets the skyline! Soaring 180 feet above the Potomac River, this unforgettable ride offers breathtaking views of the DC skyline, from the Washington Monument to Georgetown and beyond with 42 cozy, climate-controlled gondolas. The Capital Wheel is a must-do experience all year long. Keep the fun going with a spin on the whimsical Spirit Park Carousel, the toast to the view at Flight Deck, our waterfront lounge serving up specialty drinks, beer, wine, and unbeatable sunsets. Whether it’s your first ride or your fiftieth, The Capital Wheel is where unforgettable memories take flight! Please visit The Capital Wheel for daily operating hours.
RIDGELEY ROSENWALD SCHOOL MUSEUM
Learn the story of BLACK EDUCATION & COMMUNITY in Prince George’s County with a free visit to our historic school. Engage with local history. Learn the story of how the Ridgley family and community, along with the help of the Rosenwald rural school program, fought to stake their claim in Prince George’s County and establish a school that would last for generations.
Free and Interactive tours: Our skilled museum educators tailor the museum tour to the personal interests of visitors or the topics being covered in the classroom for school group visits. Our tours integrate multi-modal learning techniques and activities as requested throughout to ensure a dynamic experience. This program is brought to you by Parks & Recreation MNCPPC live more, play more pgparks.com.
Small group and classroom-size visits available upon request. If you plan to visit with a group of 6+ or outside of the normal operating hours, please contact us at least two weeks in advance at RidgeleyRosenwald@pgparks.com . Museum hours are Thursday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., 8507 Central Avenue, Capitol Heights, MD 20743.
The Department of Parks and Recreation encourages and supports the participation of individuals with disabilities. Register a minimum of two weeks prior to the program start date to request and receive disability modification. Customers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call Maryland Relay 7-1-1. Language interpretation is available at all front desks. Please ask for assistance.
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In and Around Morningside-Skyline By Mary McHale 301-735-3451
In and Around Morningside-Skyline with Mary McHale, will return soon! TOP OF PAGE
