Courtesy Photo
2026 Students of History Scholarship recipient McKenzie Poole
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Upper Marlboro Student Awarded the 2026 Students of History Scholarship
By LUKE ROSA
Students of History
UPPER MARLBORO, Md. (May 22, 2026)—McKenzie Poole of Dr. Henry A. Wise Jr. High School in Upper Marlboro has been selected as one of three recipients nationwide of the 2026 Students of History Scholarship, an annual award recognizing students who demonstrate a passion for history and a commitment to creating a better future through what they learn.
Now in its ninth year, the scholarship honors students nominated by social studies teachers for their academic curiosity, critical thinking, and leadership.
McKenzie earned the scholarship for a video essay reflecting on a research project completed in her AP African American Studies class about the role of women in the Black Panther Party—a project that reshaped how she thinks about history and whose stories get remembered.
“What really changed my perspective was realizing how much information can shift the way you see something,” McKenzie said in her scholarship essay. “It made me start questioning what else I might be missing in other historical narratives.”
McKenzie’s World History teacher, Ana Kometa, described her as a student unafraid to wrestle with difficult ideas in the classroom.
“She asks thoughtful, sometimes bold questions that push our discussions deeper, and she isn’t afraid to explore complex ideas or offer her own interpretations,” Kometa said. “This confidence, paired with her intellectual maturity, makes her a true leader in class conversations.”
Her AP African American Studies teacher, Krystal Brown, praised both McKenzie’s intellectual curiosity and character.
“McKenzie has always had a great passion for history,” Brown said. “She is inquisitive in the classroom, always took initiative to help other students, and is a true critical thinker.”
McKenzie plans to attend Spelman College this fall.
The Students of History Scholarship has been awarded annually since 2017. Founded by former classroom teacher Luke Rosa, Students of History provides history and social studies curriculum resources used by thousands of teachers and students worldwide. Visit www.studentsofhistory.com or contact Luke Rosa at Luke@studentsofhistory.com.
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Laurel Historical Society Hosts Garden Tour June 13
By SYDNEY YOUNGE
Laurel Historical Society
The Laurel Historical Society (LHS) is proud to present our 2026 Laurel Garden Tour on Saturday, June 13 from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Join us for a stroll through stunning private gardens in both Old Town and West Laurel and enjoy late spring gardens filled with native and pollinator-friendly plants, vegetable gardens, bird meadows, and Bay-Wise and Wildlife-certified gardens.
The LHS Garden Tour will feature nine Laurel area gardens with select sites including games and giveaways for visitor enjoyment. In addition to these gardens, there will be a tenth member-only “Secret Garden” on the tour. Members of the Laurel Historical Society—including those who join and purchase tickets by June 12—will be given the opportunity to stop by and visit this “Secret Garden” and enjoy refreshments. The tour also features the City of Laurel Community Garden, which works to educate Laurel residents on sustainable gardening.
Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about how local Laurel gardeners have approached setting up and maintaining their own gardens, including tips on fertilizing, weed management, and yard debris, while also supporting the Laurel Historical Society’s work to preserve and share Laurel, Maryland’s heritage through exhibits, educational programs, and community events.
According to Garden Tour Chair, Michelle Keating, “Laurel’s gardeners never fail to impress with their creativity and imagination. Each garden is its own special gem, full of personality and care. As you move from one stop to the next, there’s always something new to notice and appreciate. It’s an experience that not only showcases beauty but leaves you feeling inspired to try something new at home.”
Tickets are $25 for members and $30 for nonmembers until June 12, children 12 and under can attend for free. Day-of tickets are $35 for all adult guests. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://www.laurelhistoricalsociety.org/laurel-garden-tour.html. Day-of tickets and tour information can be picked up at the Laurel Museum at 817 Main Street, Laurel, MD 20707 starting at 9:45 a.m. The rain date is set for Sunday, June 14. Contact LHS at info@laurelhistoricalsociety.org or 301-725-7975 with questions.
This event is made possible in part through funding provided by our sponsors, James and Joshua Kole, the Maryland Humanities SHINE Grant, and the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County.
For over 50 years, Laurel Historical Society (LHS) has shared Laurel’s rich history, creating exhibits and programs that feature the city's architectural treasures and cultural heritage. We're hosting a Garden Tour that supports our mission of preserving and sharing Laurel with the community and raises critical funding for our organization. The Laurel Museum is open from 12 to 4 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and admission is always free. To learn more, visit laurelhistoricalsociety.org.
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Summer Adventures Await at Elks Camp Barrett
By DEWAYNE WILCHER
Camp Springs Elks Lodge
As summer approaches, Camp Springs Elks Lodge is proud to help promote the outstanding opportunities available for youth ages 8–11 at Elks Camp Barrett. Nestled in the beautiful Maryland countryside, Elks Camp Barrett has long served as a place where young people can experience friendship, personal growth, outdoor adventure, and unforgettable memories.
This summer, campers may attend one of two exciting camp sessions: July 12–17 or July 19–23. These sessions are designed to provide youth with a safe, enriching, and fun-filled environment where they can learn, grow, and create lifelong memories.
Campers have the opportunity to participate in activities such as swimming, hiking, sports, arts and crafts, nature exploration, team-building exercises, campfires, and so much more. Beyond recreation, Camp Barrett helps foster confidence, leadership skills, independence, and lifelong friendships.
One of the greatest strengths of Elks Camp Barrett is its focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere where youth from diverse backgrounds can come together, learn new skills, and enjoy positive mentorship from dedicated counselors and volunteers.
The Camp Springs Elks Lodge encourages families within our community to explore the opportunities available through Camp Barrett and consider giving their children the chance to experience a summer filled with growth, excitement, and lasting memories.
The Elks organization remains deeply committed to supporting youth programs that help shape the next generation of leaders while reinforcing the values of community service, respect, citizenship, and fellowship.
For additional information about registration, camp schedules, and available programs, members and community residents are encouraged to contact the Lodge or visit the camp’s information resources at www.elkscampbarrett.org.
A summer at Elks Camp Barrett is more than just camp—it is an experience that can last a lifetime.
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Pull Up Fund Draws Nearly 1,000 to Second Annual “Pull Up & Play” Youth Sports Clinic in Prince George’s County
By JAMISHIA SMITH
Pull Up Fund
LANDOVER, Md. (May 28, 2026)—Pull Up Fund welcomed nearly 1,000 attendees, including almost 700 youth and 300 adults, to its second annual Pull Up & Play on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at the Prince George’s Sports and Learning Complex. The free event offered hands-on athletic clinics across seven sports, designed to ignite a passion for play and expand access to sports.
Nearly 50 volunteer coaches and student-athletes from the University of Maryland, Bowie State University, and other
area schools brought energy and expertise to every corner of the event floor. The afternoon reached another level when two-time NBA Champion Quinn Cook and Washington Wizards forward Julian “JuJu” Reese joined the action, playing alongside youth, taking photos, and cheering them on throughout the day. And they weren’t alone—mascots Major Tuddy, Testudo, Butch, and G-WIZ kept the crowd entertained with friendly competition of their own.
From the Founder of Pull Up Fund
“The turnout and energy we saw today was inspiring. Pull Up Fund is proud to support Prince George’s County youth, bring them new opportunities, and have fun doing it.”
—Sam Brin, Founder, Pull Up Fund and Prince George’s County native
Event Highlights
• Sports Clinics: Youth of all skill levels took the floor for basketball, track and field, volleyball, cheerleading, golf, tennis, and football combine drills.
• Mascots: The fun extended beyond the clinics as Major Tuddy (Washington Commanders), Testudo (University of Maryland), Butch (Bowie State University), and G-WIZ (Washington Wizards) got in on the action, engaging in some friendly competition of their own.
• Partner Pavilion: 18 local organizations brought energy and expertise to the Partner Pavilion, connecting families with resources and support, while off ering hands-on activities like art, fitness challenges, health screenings, and more.
• Atmosphere: DJ Chris Styles, sponsored by DTLR, kept the energy high throughout the day, while DTLR also donated gift cards to help youth gear up after the event. Emcee duties were handled by Trey Rainey of 93.9 WKYS.
Pull Up & Play was held in partnership with M-NCPPC, Prince George’s County Department of Parks and Recreation.
Given the overwhelming response, Pull Up Fund plans to return next year with an expanded lineup, including new sports and dedicated activities for adults.
Pull Up Fund believes that a young person’s potential shouldn't be limited by their access to opportunities. We proudly support Prince George’s County by investing in initiatives that foster youth development, health, and community impact. For more information, visit pullupfund.org.
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