LOCAL BRIEFING

DISTRICT

---

Verizon Center will make its debut Sunday, and it won't be a low-key affair. The MCI Center is being renamed to reflect the acquisition of MCI by Verizon Communications.

In addition to new signs on the arena, plans call for the new Verizon Center logo to appear on the court in time for Sunday's Wizards game and on the ice at next Monday's Capitals game. The first 10,000 fans at each game will get a rally towel with the new logo, according to Washington Sports & Entertainment, the arena's owner.

VIRGINIA

---

Stanley Associates of Arlington, a government contractor providing systems integration and professional services, completed its acquisition of Morgan Research of Huntsville, Ala. Terms were not disclosed.

MARYLAND

---

American Capital Strategies Ltd. of Bethesda opened a Boston office to expand investment in the technology sector.

Martek Biosciences of Columbia said its nutritional supplement DHA is being used in Odwalla brand soy milk. The supplement, which is made from algae and is a source of omega-3 fatty acid, is widely used in infant formula. Martek is attempting to broaden its use in adult products.

LaSalle Hotel Properties of Bethesda agreed to buy the 367-room House of Blues Hotel in Chicago and adjacent parking and retail facilities for $114.5 million.

Westech Business Park of north Silver Spring is getting a new property owner. Grosvenor, an international real estate investment company, has sold nine buildings at the park to PS Business Parks of Glendale, Calif. Grosvenor was represented by Trammell Crow Co.