Nov 14

Nov 14 Framed Forever

Craig And Yolanda Muckle Become Part of Wall OF Fame At Beltway Plaza Mall

Story and Photos By Aisha Brantley

Witnessed by family, friends, neighbors, and elected officials, it was an evening to honor two exceptional servant-leaders in the Prince George's community. On November 9, Craig and Yolanda Muckle became the latest inductees to the Beltway Plaza Mall's Wall of Fame, which honors local citizens that have served to make a difference in their community.

The ceremony, held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the center court of the mall in Greenbelt, was hosted by Marc "Kap" Kapastin, Director of Government and Community Relations for Quantum Companies. Among the program participants were Largo Community Church Pastor Jack Morris delivering the Invocation; Councilman Todd Turner attesting to the honorees' strong family and community commitment; and Maryland State Senator Douglas "Doug" J. J. Peters, who is personally connected with the honorees, giving remarks and issuing the Official Citation of recognition.

In his absence, motivational speaker Dr. Willie Jolley served as the keynote by delivering remarks via video. “We must learn from their model and serve,” Jolley said, familiar with the Muckles' service to Prince George's County, "from seniors to teens to children, with words of hope and encouragement. Craig and Yolanda's service leads to success that leaves significance, which is the true legacy."

Also in attendance was former councilman and current Prince George's Chamber of Commerce President and CEO David Harrington, who witnessed Craig Muckle's service to the Chamber; Jan Evans from WB-TV 50, Yolanda's former boss; Dwight Rochester, sports officiator and friend to Craig; and Keith Howard, head football coach for Crossland High School.

Yolanda Muckle is a prominent member of the Prince George's Association of Realtors and has established herself as such since becoming licensed in 2003. She has served as an advertising and marketing executive for outlets, including WUSA-TV 9, for 20 years before settling into real estate. Muckle successfully forged a partnership with Lays Potato Chips to start the "Lay Down Your Guns, Party for Peace" campaign against gun violence. In addition to serving as a role model and coach, she is a member of the county's Historic Preservation Commission.

Craig Muckle, known for his winning management style, is a communications professional with over 35 years in corporate public relations and government affairs. He currently serves as Manager of Public Policy for the Archdiocese of Washington. Craig has served on the county's Chamber of Commerce, been an officiating basketball coach, organized county education and sports and entertainment committees, provided resources for fatherless youth in athletics, and has helped to raise $10,000 for the Special Olympics.

Craig and Yolanda, who are residents of Bowie, have been married for 25 years and have three children.