NEW EDITOR WELCOME
Meet the HL&T's newest managing editor, Maria D. James. P. 2
MACY'S MADE BETTER
One man's efforts led to a new family restroom and changing station at the Mall at Prince Georges. P. 5
Hyattsville's Prince Hall Freemasons
COUNSELOR OF THE YEAR Resident named D.C. counselor of the year representative. P. 7
Life&Times & &Times
by Mark Goodson
Just around the corner from the City of Hyattsville is a very active masonic lodge — the Shelton D. Redding Lodge No. 139 (SDRL) of Prince Hall Freemasons. The historically black masonic lodge shares the goal of community service through brotherhood with Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, but the two bodies' mutual existence is a reminder of segregation in the masonic body that is as old as America. George Washington was a mason in the Anglo-American tradition at a time when black Americans were denied membership. A man named Prince Hall founded African Lodge #1 in 1776, the year the country declared its independence. According to lodge documents, African lodges grew and created the African Grand Lodge (AGL), a governing body. For over a century, these lodges grew without receiving recognition from the grand lodges of England. In 1827, after Prince Hall’s death and when the AGL’s authority to grant new charters was drawn into question, the group declared its independence. Struggle for mutual
Vol. 13 No. 1
Hyattsville’s Community Newspaper
HVFD hosts holiday reunion for survivors of horrific crash
ICU provided two families with a lasting connection by Maria D. James
NONPROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID EASTON MD PERMIT NO. 43
MASONS continued on page 11
PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY FIRE/EMS The Hyattsville Volunteer Fire Department and Prince George's County Fire/EMS celebrate the holidays with two families who met at Childrenʼs National Medical Center after a deadly Chillum Road crash.
Six weeks after first responders arrived on the scene of a tragic accident on Chillum Road involving a church van that ended five lives and sent 14 people to the hospital, they were reunited with survivors. With the help of one family and local media, the Hyattsville Volunteer Fire Department (HVFD) and Prince George’s County Fire/ EMS (PGFD) hosted a holiday gathering that included donated gifts and Santa. It was an unfortunate circumstance that brought Virginia resident Carrie Jenkins to know one of the crash victims. She was caring for her son, Brayden, at the Children’s CRASH continued on page 4
Non-U.S. citizens likely to vote in city elections By Rebecca Bennett
Hyattsville Life & Times PO Box 132 Hyattsville, MD 20781
January 2016
At the Jan. 4 Hyattsville City Council meeting, councilmembers discussed a motion that would direct the city attorney to draw up a charter amendment concerning the qualifications of voters in municipal elections. The council is likely to pass the motion, which was submitted jointly by Council President Edouard Haba (Ward 4), Council Vice President Bart Lawrence, and Councilmembers Patrick Paschall (Ward 3) and Joseph Solomon (Ward 4). The biggest change proposed by this new legislation would be to allow non-U.S. citizens — even undocumented residents — to
vote in municipal elections. According to a city memo, Maryland ended non-citizen voting rights in 1851, but left it up to municipalities to decide local voting rights. Six Maryland cities currently allow non-citizens to vote: Takoma Park, Barnesville, Garrett Park, Glen Echo, Martin’s Additions and Somerset. Most councilmembers supported the issue. “I think — just like I thought with 16- and 17-year-olds who are paying taxes and driving on our roads — they should have the right to engage in our city elections,” Paschall said. Solomon said he thinks extending voting rights in city elections is something wanted and needed. “I think it’s the right thing to do
to bring them into the fold, because it’s a part of the city that is clearly present and eager to participate,” he said. Lawrence said when he campaigned, he spoke with many resident foreign nationals who could not vote, but he felt they should be able to vote in city elections. “They face a great deal of challenges,” he said. “It seemed to me that lifting just a little bit of the alienation … that it might just create a little better life for those people.” Haba said, “The key reason of backing this piece of legislation is that we, too, want [the council] to be the expression of the will of VOTING continued on page 12
CENTER SECTION: JANUARY 13, 2016 ISSUE OF THE HYATTSVILLE REPORTER — IN ESPANOL TOO!
Page 2
Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2016
FromTheEditor
Hello to Hyattsville by Maria D. James
Dear Readers, I am Maria James, and it is my pleasure to introduce myself to you as the new managing editor of the Hyattsville Life & Times. In October, we received the unfortunate news that our former managing editor, Caroline Selle, made the tough decision to step down from her position. In her farewell editorial, Selle encour-
A community newspaper chronicling the life and times of Hyattsville Mailing address: PO Box 132, Hyattsville, MD 20781 http://HyattsvilleLife.com http://facebook.com/HyattsvilleLife http://twitter.com/HvilleTimes Hyattsville Life & Times is published monthly by Hyattsville Community Newspaper, Inc., a 501c(3) nonprofit corporation. Editors welcome reader input, tips, articles, letters, opinion pieces and photographs, which may be submitted using the mailing address above or the email addresses below. Editor and Web Manager Rebecca Bennett rebecca@hyattsvillelife.com Managing Editor Maria D. James maria@hyattsvillelife.com Editor Mark Goodson Production Ashley Perks Copy Editors Sean Bennett Karen Riley Sam Stern Advertising advertising@hyattsvillelife.com 301.531.5234 Writers & Contributors Julia Gaspar-Bates, Lauren Kelly, Andrew Marder, Chris McManes, Gray O’Dwyer, Kit Slack, Scarlett Salem, Fred Seitz, Caroline Selle, Sam Stern Board of Directors Joseph Gigliotti - President and General Counsel Chris Currie - Vice President Caroline Selle - Secretary Peggy Dee, Karen J. Riley, Rosanna Landis Weaver, Gretchen Brodtman, Debra Franklin, T. Carter Ross Rebecca Bennett - Ex Officio Circulation: Copies are distributed monthly by U.S. Mail to every address in Hyattsville. Additional copies are distributed to libraries, selected businesses, community centers and churches in the city. Total circulation is 9,300. HL&T is a member of the National Newspaper Association.
aged fellow writers in the community to apply for the vacant position and consider the wonderful opportunity to work with the phenomenal, passionate HL&T staff. I was inspired by her article and since joining the staff I have found her words to be true. The staff has truly welcomed me with open arms. I’m thrilled to take the helm as managing editor and I look forward to meeting you and learning more about the Hyattsville community. Journalism has always been my first love — even before I officially knew what it was. I was just a young girl who always kept a journal and earned A’s in English class. Writing was as natural to me as breath-
ing. In high school I learned my love of writing could become a career. During my junior year at Ocean Lakes High School, in my hometown of Virginia Beach, Va., I enrolled in a journalism class as an elective, and the class produced the monthly school newspaper. My senior year I earned the title of editorin-chief and I was later awarded for my efforts. After completing my bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications from Virginia Union University in Richmond, Va., I started my career at a small town newspaper in North Carolina called The Daily Advance. I worked there for three years doing everything from taking photos
to writing articles on a variety of topics. While I loved my career in journalism, I decided to make the transition into public relations and marketing, which is the work I continue to do today. However, I still wanted to write and explore the world around me with my pen. I continued to freelance write and in more recent years I served as a copy editor for the national online magazine, Hope for Women Magazine. More personally, I am the youngest daughter of a mother who is a preschool teacher and a father who was a deputy sheriff and church minister in the Pentecostal denomination known as the Church of God in Christ. I have three siblings and I’m the aunt to three boys, one whom proudly serves this country in the U.S. Army. After accepting an internship in the Washington,
D.C. metro area in 2009, I simultaneously completed my master’s degree in Strategic Public Relations from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Va., and gradually started making a life for myself. I lived in Upper Marlboro and then Washington, D.C. before I officially decided to make Hyattsville my home in 2013. The motto I live by each day is, “She said she could, so she did.” This mantra encourages me to be unapologetic about my goals and to push forward to transform my dreams into reality. Working with the HL&T is certainly a dream that has become a reality for me. As I learn my new role, I also plan to spend time learning about our readers and the community. I am excited to meet you all. Please send your story ideas, questions or concerns to me at maria@hyattsvillelife.com.
NEWS BRIEFS READ THE FULL STORY AT HYATTSVILLELIFE.COM BODY FOUND ON NORTHWEST BRANCH TRAIL According to the Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD), the body of 20-year-old Catherine Alvarado from Chillum was discovered on Jan. 1 along the Northwest Branch Trail. PGPD said officers found the victim suffering from upper body trauma when they were called for a welfare check at 7:20 a.m. She was pronounced dead on the scene, which was just outside of the City of Hyattsville in the 6100 block of Ager Road near Rosa Parks Elementary School. Homicide detectives do not believe her murder was a random act and they are working to identify the suspects and a motive. WUSA9 reported that police told them the victim’s body was not dressed in workout clothes and it was unlikely that she was exercising. A reward of up to $25,000 is being offered for information that leads to an arrest in this case. Anyone with information is asked to call the PGPD Homicide Unit at 301.772.4925. NEW POLICE HEADQUARTERS MOVING FORWARD In Aug. 2015, the City of Hyattsville solicited for professional consulting services in preparation to renovate the former BB&T Bank Building at 3505 Hamilton Street. In 2015, the Hyattsville City Council approved the space to be the future home of the Hyattsville City Police Department. The firm will help the city develop a request for proposals with the standards that a police department needs, Hyattsville City Department of Public Works Director Lesley Riddle said.
From the six bids that came back, the council authorized a contract with JMT for the services, not to exceed budgeted funds of $500,000, which a city memo said includes a concept design, interviewing the design and construction firms, executing third party inspections and final commissioning of the building. ELECTION REFORM Citing the approval of 16- and 17-year-old voting and a large number of candidates as a historic election year last year, the Board of Supervisors of Elections presented extensive changes in city election law to the Hyattsville City Council for discussion on Jan. 4. The proposed changes include: defining the election board as having the power to investigate complaints, hold hearings, and implement enforcement actions; requiring a detailed expense report of cash withdrawals more than $20 in seven days; and setting campaign-contribution maximums. DEMATHA PLAYERS AT ALL-AMERICAN GAME Three DeMatha Football players represented Maryland in the Under-Armour All American Football game played on January 2 in Orlando, Fla.: defensive end Shane Simmons (Penn State commit) wide receiver and strong safety Tino Ellis and offensive lineman Terrence Davis, both committed to the University of Maryland. Ellis caught a 51 yard post which was the longest play from the line of scrimmage for Team Armour. Davis announced his intent to attend the University of Maryland live in front a national audience on ESPN2.
POLICE RECEIVE K9 PROTECTIVE VEST The Hyattsville City Police Department (HCPD) received a K9 bullet and stab protective vest as a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. HCPD said the vest — for K9 Rudy — was made possible by an anonymous sponsor and is embroidered with “In memory of Mindy.”
Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2016
Page 3
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CAROLINE SELLE Co-owners Kate Blattner and Jackie Willis opened their sewing studio on Gallatin Street on Dec. 6.
Sewing duo to service city by Caroline Selle
The new Three Little Birds Sewing Co. studio on Gallatin Street in downtown Hyattsville offers sewing machine rentals, group classes, and a selection of specialty fabrics. “When we first got into the space … it was just an office space,” said Riverdale resident, and co-owner, Kate Blattner. Alongside Jackie Willis, co-owner and Gaithersburg resident, Blattner officially welcomed patrons into the re-decorated studio for the grand opening on Dec. 6. To get into the studio, patrons have to walk up a narrow stairway and take a sharp turn into a dimly lit hall. But once inside, the room is bright and airy, with shelves stacked to the ceiling with bolts of colorful and patterned fabric. One wall is covered with chalkboard paint, and three sewing machines and a “serger” (a type of sewing machine) are available for students to practice. “It was the first place we came to and it kind of spoke to us and we just ran with it,” Willis said. They were looking for a place that was big enough to teach classes but small enough to be affordable, and the former Gallatin Street office was perfect. “I wanted to be close to home. I wanted something for the community,” said Blattner. Blattner and Willis first met while working together in Washington, D.C. and quickly bonded over their mutual love of sewing. Both bring years of experience to the studio: Blattner sewed through youth development pro-
CAROLINE SELLE A selection of Three Little Birds Sewing Co.'s fabric.
gram 4-H, had a previous sewing business, and made clothes for her niece, and Willis grew up sewing, made all of her homecoming and prom dresses, and received a degree in the field before teaching at the university level. “I’ve always wanted to open a sewing studio and do something creative,” Blattner said. Three Little Birds Co.’s studio is a dual concept: it’s a space for learning and a space for shopping. On opening day, Willis moved back and forth between assisting a customer picking out several lengths of fabric for a sewing project and assisting a first-time sewing student making holiday ornaments on one of the three machines. There were already dozens of beautiful prints to choose from. “The fabrics come from different wholesale companies,” Blattner said. “We placed our first couple orders before we ever found this space.” The two owners have big plans for the future of their business.
“We’ll have a variety of workshops,” Blattner said. “A lot that are going to be what we’re calling project classes, so in two or three hours’ time you can walk away with an actual object that you made.” There will also be more advanced classes, potentially including one on handbags, and they’re thinking about hosting kids classes as well. “I want to do a bring your own pattern kind of class,” Willis said. “Commercial patterns really are confusing.” Additionally, she’s interested in hosting classes on basic sewing skills and information on sewing machines. And, there’s always prom season. “Girls can come in and we can alter a dress they already bought,” Willis said. “A prom class is something I’m definitely interested in doing.” And, men’s fashion won’t be left out: she said she’s interested in teaching how to make button down shirts. The pair said they’re interested in private lessons, too. “We’re all ears. We want to fit our customers’ needs,” Blattner said. Whether that need is for an hour’s time on a sewing machine, a lesson on the basics, or an expert class on draping, Willis and Blattner said they intend to keep the Three Little Birds Co. studio a fun environment. “We’re a smaller studio, so everyone’s going to get an intimate experience,” Blattner said. Information about hours, classes and other services is available at www.threelittlebirdssewingco.com.
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Page 4
Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2016
REST IN PEACE HAILEY: BELOVED FIREHOUSE MASCOT PASSES AWAY
CRASH
HYATTSVILLE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT The members of the Hyattsville Volunteer Fire Department (HVFD) are mourning the loss of beloved mascot, 6-year-old Hailey, who passed away peacefully on Jan. 1 after a brief battle with cancer. Hailey was 16 weeks old when she came to HVFD from the Washington Animal Rescue League in April 2010 with her Rottweiler sisters, Rylie and Lilla. Hailey is now chasing shadows with previous firehouse mascots Chile and Clyde. For more photos and to read more about Hailey's story, visit www.HVFD.com.
National Medical Center during the time of the crash. At the hospital, Carrie and her son bonded with Dianna, a child survivor from the incident. According to PGFD, Dianna made such a significant impression that Jenkins enlisted the help of friends and family for donations on Dianna’s behalf. Jenkins then contacted ABC7 News, which worked with the HVFD and PGFD to arrange and coordinate the reunion. Jenkin’s family and first responders distributed gifts to Dianna’s family, as well as other families involved in the crash. Some of the firefighters and paramedics at the reunion had responded to the accident scene. “It was a pretty horrific crash and it affected many of our responders,” said Mark Brady, spokesperson for Prince George's County Fire/EMS. “Often we drop off victims at the emergency room and that’s it. We don’t always find out what happened.” According to Brady, the mass casualty incident on Nov. 8 was one of the worst the department had experienced in recent years. “We’re glad there were survivors. We are pleased to hear there were positive results,” said Brady.
Saturday, February 27, 2016 . 5:00 - 7:00 PM City Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street
$5. Tickets Kid Friendly per person Music 00
Refreshments
D anci ng
& Fun Photos!
Reservations are required.
To make a reservation, call 301-985-5021
Children must be accompanied by an adult throughout the evening.
continued from page 1
Sábado, 27 de febrero 2016 . 5:00 - 7:00 PM Edif icio Municipal de Hyattsville, 4310 Gallatin Street
Música para Niños
00 $5. Boleto por persona
Refrescos
Fotos divertidas y bailando!
Reservaciones son requeridas.
Para hacer una reservación, llame al 301-985-5021 Los niños deben estar acompañados por un adulto durante toda la noche.
Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2016
Page 5
Dad’s concerns help transform Macy’s restroom By Maria D. James
For Anthony Drew of Beltsville and his son, 4-month-old Jeremiah, Dec. 10 was just a typical day for holiday shopping. Since he was already in the area, Drew decided to stop into Macy’s at the Mall at Prince Georges. However, his shopping trip came to a halt when he walked into the men’s room and realized there was no place to change his son’s diaper. Drew’s next steps crowned him as Macy’s “Hero of the Day.” “I had no place to change Jeremiah’s diaper, so we left the store,” said Drew. That same day, he wrote a letter to Terry J. Lundgren, the chairman and chief executive officer of Macy’s, and expressed his concerns about the lack of adequate facilities for men to change diapers. Drew said that Lundgren forwarded his concerns within 24 hours to Regional Vice President Alex Barron, who then called Drew directly. “Macy’s heard my concerns and acted on them immediately,” Drew said. Barron said the need for a baby station inside the men’s room was something no one had addressed before. Within a week, an employee bathroom no longer in use was renovated into a brand new customer restroom complete with a baby changing station, new tile and a new toilet. “I was impressed with how quickly fa-
COURTESY OF ANTHONY DREW Above: Macyʼs Regional Vice President Alex Barron shakes hands with father Anthony Drew. Drew is holding son, Jeremiah Drew.
cilities maintenance came out and made a suggestion for how we could make this happen,” said Barron. “I think everyone felt like it was the right thing to do.” The new restroom, located on the third floor at Macy’s — currently labeled as a men’s room — will soon be a unisex family restroom. As a thank you for helping to
bring on this kind of change, Barron and Macy’s awarded Drew with a gift card and Christmas items for Jeremiah. “Mr. Drew’s genuine concern was refreshing,” said Barron. “It is nice to hear customers offer suggestions to help our customers shop in our stores.” Drew sees these changes as a win for pri-
vacy and safety — both aspects he considers important to parents when raising a young child. “Now infants and toddlers have the privacy and safety they need, and customers can enjoy the convenience of a family restroom,” said Drew. “Macy’s responded and resolved my concerns in a very professional and expedited manner.”
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Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2016
Resident faces tough identity theft battle By Sam Stern
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Guy Owen’s problems began in July 2015 when he received an unexpected correspondence from his bank via his online account. “I got a message from the bank saying they had approved my new credit card, but there was a small problem and they would like me to get in touch with them,” he said. Owen knew he had not applied for a card, as he was in the process of getting a home equity loan to repair a damaged porch. This initial inconsistency was only the beginning of numerous fraudulent credit card applications. All of the first applications went out on the same day, July 28, 2015. The companies involved were all businesses and banks that Owen had patronized including JC Penney, Barclays and Citi. Owen said victims of identity fraud are often faced with an uncertain resolution process with no clear answer. “I started asking questions of the bank. … They gave me a little bit of information but the funny part about this is when you have identity theft for the most part the banks clam up.” According to the Federal Trade Commission, 9.9 million people have their identity stolen every year. Owen, a Hyattsville resident, is one of those people. Identity theft is unique because of the nature of the crime. Many times, the perpetrator is a faceless entity protected by the anonymity of an online presence. “The hardest part is the identity of the person who stole the identity is hard to get,” said Hyattsville City Police Department Spokesperson Lt. Chris Purvis. But even though Owen knew the name and address of the person who stole his identity, no one has been charged with a crime. Police who attempt to prosecute these crimes run into jurisdictional issues. “I started investigating ID theft in the early 2000s. We wouldn’t
know who would take control of the investigation,” said Purvis. “We reach out to the jurisdiction where the suspect is and work with them,” he said. According to Purvis, while the methods to catch identity thieves have improved, the problem itself has grown worse. “We have come to realize that it is a hard case to investigate. It’s a hard case to get a suspect on, and we’ve been trying to educate people on how to not get your [identity] stolen,” he said. According to USA.gov’s prevention guide, there are measures one can take to lessen the chance of a stolen identity. Steps to take include using complex passwords, checking your credit score frequently, and using your Social Security number only when completely necessary. Gizmodo.com explains that many times identities are stolen because people are too loose with their information over the phone and in emails. Failing to shred sensitive documents and responding to spam can also increase the likelihood of being victimized. Purvis said a stolen credit or debit card and a stolen identity are not synonymous. “Everyone’s credit card is gonna get hacked no matter what. … There are certain things that need to happen when someone takes over an identity." The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recommends an immediate five-step process to follow right after the identity is taken including calling the companies involved, placing a fraud alert on your credit and reporting to the FTC and local police department. Owen said he followed all the the steps and went through the proper channels, but more than five months later, is still experiencing the aftermath. The path to resolution seems murky at best, with many questions along the way. His experiences point to the conclusion that the best course of action against identity theft is to prevent its occurrence in the first place.
Church of God and Saints of Christ
4203 Farragut Street, Hyattsville, Maryland Pastor: Evangelist Samuel Wade Time of Services: Beginning of the Sabbath: 7:30pm - 9:30pm Sabbath Service (Saturday) 11:00am to Sunset
The house of God is the house of prayer for all people. All are welcome.
Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2016
Page 7
Hyattsville resident receives school counselor top honors By Rebecca Bennett
COURTESY OF CARLETTA HURT
The American School Counselor Association said state representatives for the “Counselor of the Year” program were selected because of their school counseling innovations, effective school counseling programs, leadership and advocacy skills and contributions to student advancement. When Hyattsville resident Carletta Hurt — a school counselor at Howard University Middle School for Mathematics and Science (MS2) — was selected as the 2016 Washington, D.C. Counselor of the Year representative, she said it had something to do with her innovative high school transition program. The District of Columbia Public School System has several high schools that work off lottery enrollment. Hurt said the transition program at MS2 gets eighth graders ready to
apply through a two- to three-month process that begins in January. The school sits down with students, goes over their grades, their test scores, their skills, how they feel, how they learn and their behavior. Hurt said they go over school options and she stresses that students should visit the schools, because they will spend the next four years there. The school counselor also helps students become their own advocates and discusses summer prep work. The program is in its fifth year, which now allows Hurt to see how the process has prepared them to apply for college. “Ms. Hurt’s dedication to the mission and vision of our school, to the success of all our scholars, and to the support of our parents is invaluable. She has supported our students in their transition to high school, helping them transition to such schools as
Sidwell Friends, School Without Walls and Banneker High School,” said MS2 Head of School Kathryn Procope. Hurt, who has worked in inner-city and public charter schools, said her role as a counselor is really about advocating with parents on a regular basis. She said she works at developing a relationship with parents and students, builds partnerships, and tries to connect with parents who who are not active. “I stress to parents to know your child's counselor,” she said. “Know who is in the building to advocate for your child and make us work.” Hurt said a counselor can assist students when parents cannot and they are resources for community outreach opportunities when students are having larger issues. Hurt will be honored at the White House and meet First Lady Michelle Obama on Jan. 28.
Page HR1
Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2016
the
Hyattsville Reporter No. 326 • January 13, 2016
Movin’ With the Mayor
To encourage health, and have some fun, Mayor Candace Hollingsworth is partnering with local businesses to offer free wellness classes to City of Hyattsville residents. Classes will be open to all skill levels. The next class is Sadcie – Caribbean dance-exercise – on Saturday, January, 16, 12:30-1:30 p.m. with Island Fete Fitness at the City Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street. For more information, please contact Ellarose Preston at 301-985-5006 or epreston@hyattsville.org.
Call-A-Bus is Free for January!
The Call-A-Bus is operating free of charge in January. The bus is primarily to help seniors and residents with disabilities get to their medical appointments, but we also make grocery store and prescription-pickup trips. We offer round trip service, from and back to your home. If you’ve never used the bus before, registration is easy and also free. Call in advance to reserve your free trip – 301-985-5020.
Free all Year – University of Maryland Shuttle Bus
Route 113 of the University of Maryland Shuttle Bus loops through Hyattsville, stops at the Prince George’s Plaza Metro, and then heads to the University. Hyattsville residents can get a pass to ride free by bringing photo ID and proof of residence to the Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Passes are issued the same day. Route maps and schedules are available at www.dots.umd.edu.
Hiring Police Officers
Interested in becoming a Hyattsville Police Officer? The Hyattsville Police Department is currently recruiting experienced officers and others interested in starting a career in law enforcement. The City offers competitive salaries
www.hyattsville.org • 301-985-5000
Civilian Police Academy
How to Improve Zoning Rules in our Community
The Prince George’s County Planning Department is conducting a comprehensive rewrite of the Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations. The goal is to make zoning code more user-friendly, and they want input from the public. With this in mind, the City and County will host a public hearing on Monday, Feb. 1, at 7 p.m. at the City Administrative Building, 4310 Gallatin Street.
Camp Magruder Spring 2016
Spend spring break at Camp Magruder! Campers will enjoy a week filled with arts, sports and much much more. Camp will be March 28 through April 1. The cost is $125 per camper and before and after care are available. Registration opens January 18. For more information contact Saarah Abdul-Rauf at 301-9855065, email at srauf@hyattsville.org or visit www.hyattsville.org/campmagruder
“Cooking Matters” Price Rite Nutritional Tour
Take a free nutritional tour of the Price Rite grocery store on Thursday, January 21 at 2 p.m. Learn to read labels, compare unit pricing,
find whole grain foods and add more fresh produce into inexpensive meals. All participants receive a reusable grocery bag and a $10 gift card. Call-A-Bus will pick you up at your home, or you can meet us at 3104 Queens Chapel Road. Reservations must be made in advance. For more information contact Colleen Aistis at 301-985-5057 or caistis@hyattsville.org.
Please Help Your Community
The City is mailing a survey to all residents, asking for your opinion on services for seniors and people with disabilities. The one-page survey shouldn’t take long to complete, and you can mail it back anonymously and free. Your answers will help City Council make decisions on how to best invest in our community. For more information, please contact Beryl Johnson at 301-985-5057 or bjohnson@hyattsville.org.
Creative Minds Parent-Child Program
The City will again host youngsters ages 1 to 3 and their parents for art, music, stories, movement and play. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10 a.m. to noon. The next semester is Jan. 19 to May 5 and the cost is $50 for the first child and $30 for a sibling. Come check out your first class for free. Magruder Park Recreation Center, 3911 Hamilton. More information is available at www.hyattsville.org/CreativeMinds.
Ageless Grace Senior Exercise Classes Wednesdays and Fridays, 10 AM – 11 AM; Hyattsville Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street. More information: Beryl Johnson, 301-985-5058, bjohnson@ hyattsville.org Call-A-Bus Trip to Safeway & Aldi Thursdays January 14 & 28, 11 AM Pick up and drop off at your home. Reservations: 301-985-5020. More information: Beryl Johnson, 301-985-5058, bjohnson@hyattsville.org Movin’ With the Mayor – Sadcie, Caribbean Dance & Exercise Saturday, January 16, 12:30 – 1:30 PM City Administrative Building, 4310 Gallatin Street.More information: Ellarose Preston, 301-985-5006, epreston@ hyattsville.org
Martin Luther King Jr. Day Monday, January 18. City offices closed. Emergency services continue. City Council Meeting Tuesday, January 19, 8 PM. Hyattsville Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street More information: Laura Reams, 301-985-5009, lreams@hyattsville.org Code Compliance Advisory Meeting Wednesday, January 20, 7 PM. Hyattsville Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street. More information: Chris Giunta, 301-985-5017, cgiunta@hyattsville.org Price Rite Nutritional Tour Thursday, January 21, 2:00 PM. 3104 Queens Chapel Road or ride the Call-ABus. More information: Colleen Aistis, 301-985-5057, caistis@hyattsville.org Call-A-Bus Trip to Giant Mondays, January 25 & February 8, 11 AM. Pick up and drop off at your home. Reservations: 301-985-5020. More information: Beryl Johnson, 301-985-5058, bjohnson@hyattsville.org
el
Reportero de
Hyattsville
No. 326 • 13 de enero, 2016
Para apoyar la salud publica, y divertirse, Alcaldesa Candace Hollingsworth y negocios locales están ofreciendo clases de ejercicio y salud gratis a los residentes de la Ciudad de Hyattsville. Las clases estarán para todos niveles. La proxima clase es de Sadcie – baile y ejercicio Caribeño – el sabado, 16 de enero, 12:30-1:30 p.m., con Island Fete Fitness, en el Edificio Municipal, 4310 Gallatin Street. Para mas informacion, por favor contacte a Ellarose Preston en 301-985-5006 o epreston@hyattsville.org.
Llama-Un-Bus Gratis En Enero!
El servicio de Call-A-Bus funcionará gratuitamente en enero. El autobús es principalmente para ayudar a las personas mayores y residentes con discapacidad llegar a sus citas médicas, pero también hacemos viajes de recolección supermercado y prescripción. El servicio se ofrece para ida y vuelta, desde y de regreso a su casa. Si nunca ha utilizado el bus antes, registro es fácil y además gratis. Llame para reservar su viaje gratis – 301-985-5020.
Gratis Todo el Año – Bus de la Universidad de Maryland
Ruta 113 del bus de la Universidad de Maryland circula por Hyattsville, para en el estacion de Metro de Prince George’s Plaza, y sigue hasta la Universidad. Residentes de Hyattsville pueden conseguir una tarjeta para usarlo gratis si lleve identificacion con foto y prueba de residencia en la Ciudad al Edificio Municipal, 4310 Gallatin Street, lunes a viernes, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Dan tarjetas la misma dia. Mapas y horarios de rutas estan disponibles en www.dots.umd.edu.
Contratando Policias
¿Tiene interes en ser Policia de Hyattsville? El Departmento esta reclutando policias con experiencia y personas con interes en ser policia. La Ciudad ofrece salarios competitivos y beneficios excelentes. Para mas information, por favor, visite www.hyattsville.org/jobs.
Academia de Policia para Residentes
Residentes estan invitados a solicitor para un curso de 11 semanas para mejorar comunicaciones y colaboracion con la Policia de Hyattsville. La clase ocure cada jueves en la tarde empezando el 14 de enero. Para participar, debe tener 18 años y pasar una verificación de antecedentes. Para una solicitud o mas informacion, por favor, contacte a Corporal James Denault en 240-286-6047 o jdenault@hyattsville.org.
Como Mejorar Las Reglas de Zonificación en Nuestra Comunidad
El Departamento de Planeación del Condado Prince George’s está re-escribiendo las reglas de zonificación. La meta es hacerlas mas amable al usario, y para hacerlo, quieren comentarios del publico. Por eso, la Ciudad y el Condado tendrán una audiencia publica el lunes, 1 de febrero, a las 7 p.m. el el Edificio Municipal, 4310 Gallatin Street.
Camp Magruder de la Primavera 2016
Pasa la vacación de la primavera con Camp Magruder! Camperos disfrutaran una semana llena de artes, deportes, y mucho mucho más. El Camp será 28 de marzo hasta 1 de abril. Cuesta $125 cada campero y horas antes y despues del día regular están disponible. Inscripción abre el 18 de enero. Para más información contacte a Saarah Abdul-Rauf a 301-985-5065 o srauf@hyattsville. org o visite www.hyattsville.org/campmagruder.
www.hyattsville.org • 301-985-5000
Gira de Nutrición con “Cooking Matters”
Toma una gira nutricional y gratuita del Price Rite el 21 de enero a las 2:00 p.m. Aprenda a leer etiquetas, comparan precios de unidades, encuentran alimentos de grano entero y usan mas verduras frescas en comidas baratas. Participantes recibirán una bolsa reutilizable y una tarjeta de credito de $10. El Llama-Un-Bus te recogerá en su casa o encuentranos en 3104 Queens Chapel Road. Deben hacer reservaciones un dia antes. Para más información, contacte a Colleen Aistis a 301-985-5057 o caistis@ hyattsville.org.
Ayuda Tu Comunidad Por Favor
La Ciudad está enviando una encuesta a todos los residentes, pidiendo su opinion de servicios para mayores y personas con discapacidades. La encuesta – de solo una pagina – no debe tomar mucho tiempo para llenar y lo puede hacer anonimo, y despues enviarla gratis. Las respuestas ayudará al Consejo Municipal en decidir las mejores maneras a invertir en nuestra comunidad. Para más información, por favor contacte a Beryl Johnson a 301-985-5057 o bjohnson@hyattsville.org.
Mentes Creativos – Programa de Padres y Hijos
La Ciudad otra vez invita a padres y sus niños de 1 a 3 años al programa de arte, musica, historias, movimiento y juego. Martes y jueves, 10 a.m. a mediodia. El semestre es 19 de enero al 5 de mayo y cuesta $50 para el primer niño y $30 para un hermano. Puede visitar una clase gratis. Magruder Park Recreation Center, 3911 Hamilton. Más información esta disponible en www.hyattsville.org/CreativeMinds.
CALENDARIO
CALENDAR Creative Minds Parent-Child Program Tuesdays and Thursdays Starting January 19, 10 AM – 12 PM. Magruder Park Recreation Center, 3911 Hamilton Street. More information: Saarah AbdulRauf, 301-985-5065, srauf@hyattsville.org
Page HR2
Moviendo Con La Alcaldesa
and excellent benefits. For more information please visit www.hyattsville.org/jobs. Residents are invited to apply for an 11-week course to increase communication and collaboration with the Hyattsville Police. The class takes place Thursday evenings starting January 14. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and pass a background check. For an application or more information, please contact Corporal James Denault at 240-286-6047 or jdenault@hyattsville.org.
Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2016
Call-A-Bus Trip to Shoppers & Price Rite Tuesday, January 26 & February 9, 11 AM. Pick up and drop off at your home. Reservations: 301-985-5020. More information: Beryl Johnson, 301-985-5058, bjohnson@hyattsville.org Hyattsville Planning Committee Tuesday, January 26, 7:30 PM. Hyattsville Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street. More information: Jim Chandler, 301-985-5013, jchandler@hyattsville.org City Council Budget Work Session Review of Council Budget Priorities for FY17. Wednesday, January 27, 8 PM Hyattsville Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street. More information: Laura Reams, 301-985-5009, lreams@ hyattsville.org Seniors Free Movie Monday Monday, February 1, 9 AM – 12:30 PM Beltway Plaza; Call-A-Bus will transport.. More information: Beryl Johnson, 301-985-5058, bjohnson@hyattsville.org
Public Hearing on Zoning Re-Write Monday, February 1, 7 PM. Hyattsville Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street More information: Laura Reams, 301-985-5009, lreams@hyattsville.org City Council Meeting Monday, February 1, 8 PM. Hyattsville Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street More information: Laura Reams, 301-985-5009, lreams@hyattsville.org Board of Supervisors of Elections Meeting Tuesday, February 2, 4 PM. Hyattsville Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street More information: Laura Reams, 301-985-5009, lreams@hyattsville.org
Mentes Creativas – Programa de padres e hijos Los Martes y Jueves Empezando 19 de Enero, 10 AM – 12 PM. Centro de recreación de Parque Magruder, 3911 Hamilton Street. Más información: Saarah AbdulRauf, 301-985-5065, srauf@hyattsville.org Gracia Eterna - Clases de ejercicios Los Miércoles y Viernes, 10 AM – 11 AM. Edificio Municipal de Hyattsville, 4310 Gallatin Street. Más información: Beryl Johnson, 301-985-5058, bjohnson@hyattsville.org Viaje con Lllama-Un-Bus a Safeway y Aldi Los Jueves 14 y 28 de Enero, 11 AM. El bus les recoge y deja en la casa. Reservaciones: 301-985-5020. Más información: Beryl Johnson, 301-985-5058, bjohnson@hyattsville.org
Día de Martin Luther King Jr. Lunes, 18 de Enero. Oficinas de la Ciudad Estarán Cerrados. Servicios de Emergencia Continuarán.
Moviendo Con la Alcaldesa – Sadcie: Clase de Baile-Ejercicio Caribeño Sabado, 16 de Enero, 12:30 – 1:30 PM. Edificio Municipal de Hyattsville, 4310 Gallatin Street. Más información: Ellarose Preston, 301-985-5006, epreston@hyattsville.org
Viaje con el Lllama-Un-Bus a Giant Los Lunes, 25 de Enero y 8 de Febrero, 11 AM. El bus les recoge y deja en la casa. Reservaciones: 301-985-5020. Más información: Beryl Johnson, 301-985-5058, bjohnson@hyattsville.org
Reunión del Consejo Municipal Martes, 19 de Enero, 8 PM. Edificio Municipal de Hyattsville, 4310 Gallatin Street. Más información: Laura Reams, 301-9855009, lreams@hyattsville.org Reunion del Comité de Codigos Miércoles, 20 de Enero, 7 PM. Edificio Municipal de Hyattsville, 4310 Gallatin Street. Más información: Chris Giunta, 301-9855017, cgiunta@hyattsville.org Gira Nutricional en Price Rite Jueves, 21 de Enero, 2 PM. 3104 Queens Chapel Road o Toma el Llama-Un-Bus. Más información: Colleen Aistis, 301-9855057, caistis@hyattsville.org
Viaje con el Lllama-Un-Bus a Shoppers y Price Rite Los Martes, 26 de Enero y 9 de Febrero, 11 AM. El bus les recoge y deja en la casa. Reservaciones: 301-985-5020. Más información: Beryl Johnson, 301-985-5058, bjohnson@hyattsville.org Reunión del Comité de Planeación Martes, 26 de Enero, 7:30 PM. Edificio Municipal de Hyattsville, 4310 Gallatin Street. Más información: Jim Chandler, 301-9855013, jchandler@hyattsville.org Reunion de Trabajo del Consejo Municipal Prioridades del Presupuesto de FY17. Miércoles, 27 de Enero, 8 PM. Edificio Municipal de Hyattsville, 4310 Gallatin Street. Más información: Laura Reams, 301-9855009, lreams@hyattsville.org Pelicula Gratis Para Mayores Lunes, 1 de Febrero, 9 AM – 12:30 PM. Beltway Plaza; Call-A-Bus transportará. Más información: Beryl Johnson, 301-9855058, bjohnson@hyattsville.org
Audiencia Publica de Cambios a Zonificación Lunes, 1 de Febrero, 7 PM. Edificio Municipal de Hyattsville, 4310 Gallatin Street. Más información: Laura Reams, 301-9855009, lreams@hyattsville.org Reunión del Consejo Municipal Lunes, 1 de Febrero, 8 PM. Edificio Municipal de Hyattsville, 4310 Gallatin Street. Más información: Laura Reams, 301-9855009, lreams@hyattsville.org Reunion de La Mesa de Supervisores de Elecciones Martes, 2 de Febrero, 4 PM. Edificio Municipal de Hyattsville, 4310 Gallatin Street. Más información: Laura Reams, 301-9855009, lreams@hyattsville.org
Page 8
Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2016
COMMUNITY IN ACTION
COURTESY OF THE CITY OF HYATTSVILLE Boy Scouts Eli Widmer, Peter Currie and Jimmy Gonzales of Troop 224 await the beginning of the Jan. 4 City Council Meeting, where they presented the flags during a ceremony to start the meeting.
REGISTRATION FEE
CAROLINE SELLE Join Hyattsville Aging in Place at the Hyattsville Municipal Building on Feb. 6 for a valentine-making party! This all-ages event is great for the young and not-so-young. Participants can make a valentine for a friend and make one for a local senior citizen.
TARIFA DE REGISTRO
$50 PER SESSION (1 CHILD) $30 (2ND CHILD) ST
$50 PER SESIÓN (1RO NIÑO) $30 (2DO NIÑO)
JAN. 19TH THROUGH MAY. 5TH
19 de Enero - 5 de Mayo
If you have any questions please contact Saarah Abdul-Rauf: srauf@hyattsville.org or 240.299.8395
Para obtener mas información comuníquese con Saarah Abdul-Rauf: srauf@hyattsville.org o 240.299.8395.
Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2016
Page 9
COMMUNITY CALENDAR January 15
Celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on his birthday by watching portions of the PBS program "Eyes on the Prize," documenting the civil rights movement. All ages, but contains some distressing images. Free. 1 to 5 p.m. Hyattsville Branch Library, 6530 Adelphi Road. 301.985.4690.
January 18
Schools out and young artists are invited to Creative Kids Day for hands-on art activities that teach skills in art materials, core principals of art, and insights into world cultures. SMARTlink registration required. Ages 6 to 12. $34 residents; $41 nonresidents. 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with before and after care available. Brentwood Arts Exchange, 3901 Rhode Island Avenue, Brentwood. 301.277.2863.
January 20 and February 6
Video Fest is an open-call feature of short film and video work by regional producers. Presented to the public in a social and appreciative atmosphere, the one-day festival is a showcase of known and unknown talent alike. Entries due 5 p.m. Jan. 20. Add sentence: Viewing Feb. 6 at 1 p.m. All entries received will be shown, and a panel of judges will select one work to receive the title of “Best in Festival” and a $300 cash prize. Brentwood Arts Exchange, 3901 Rhode Island Avenue, Brentwood. 301.277.2863.
January 22
School's out again on Friday, so come down to the library for Free Play with legos, board games, card games, chess, and arts and crafts. Ages 5 to 12. Free. 2 to 4 p.m. Hyattsville Branch Library, 6530 Adelphi Road. 301.985.4690.
January 22
January 26
A trio of menacing gangsters conspires to execute the Greatest Robbery of the 21st Century: a piggy bank. The final showing of Clown Cabaret’s “The Heist” is a robust physical comedy, with nods to both high and low art ranging from French Surrealism to Bugs Bunny performed without dialogue. Performance followed by a talk back with the artists. Cash donation. 7 p.m. Joe's Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Road, Mount Rainier. www.joesmovement.org.
Join scientists with the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke/National Institute of Health for a Brain STEM program promoting neuroscience education and awareness. Students will have the opportunity to learn about the human brain directly from staff and scientists and also take part in fun hands-on activities. Free. 5 p.m. Hyattsville Branch Library, 6530 Adelphi Road. 301.985.4690.
January 23
February 6
Geriatric specialist Dr. Stephanie Trifoglio will bring clarity and compassion to the topic of dementia, of which Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause in persons over the age of 65. Symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and research will be discussed. Sponsored by Hyattsville Aging in Place. Free. 9 a.m. for coffee and conversation, followed by program. Hyattsville Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street. 301.887.3101.
January 25
The library Independent Film Series will view "Girl Rising," a documentary film that tells the stories of nine girls from nine developing countries, where each faces challenges that require perseverance and commitment to pursue their dreams. Ultimately it is a story of the human spirit and the power of education to change the world. The filmmaker-in-residence will facilitate the post-screening discussion. Refreshments provided. Sponsored by the Creative Edge Studio and the Friends of the Hyattsville Library. Free. 7 to 9 p.m. Hyattsville Branch Library, 6530 Adelphi Road. 301.985.4690.
All ages are invited to a Valentine-Making Party to make a special Valentine for a friend and another for a Hyattsville senior. Live music. Sponsored by Hyattsville Aging in Place. Free. 10 a.m. to Noon. Hyattsville Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street. 301.887.3101. Email hapcares@gmail.com. Before or after you make your valentines, shop the Hyattsville Horticulture Society's annual Seed Sale where at least 20 varieties of tomato will be on sale, as well as other vegetables, herbs and flowers. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hyattsville Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street.
February 9
Join us for a series of portraits of influential African Americans during Black History Month: Our Voices. In each program we will read a biography and have extension activities (arts and crafts, film clips, music). All ages are welcome, but stories and activities will be most appropriate for ages 5 to 12. Free. 4:30 p.m. Hyattsville Branch Library, 6530 Adelphi Road. 301.985.4690.
Vigilante Coffee hosts Coffee Cupping on Fridays Jan. 15, 22 and 29 this month! The series gives participants the opportunity to learn how to cup coffee and to taste the roastery’s latest offerings. Free. 1 to 1:30 p.m. Vigilante Coffee, 4327 Gallatin Street. Open Mic at Busboys and Poets, various hosts. Hear live spoken word poetry in the Zinn Room. Thursdays, 9 to 11 p.m. 5331 Baltimore Avenue. 301.779.2787 Through March, naturalists will lead a guided hike around Lake
Artemesia and the Luther Goldman Birding Trail on the first and third Thursdays of the month. Lake Artemesia, 8200 55th Avenue, Berwyn Heights. Free. 3 to 4:30 p.m. 301.627.7755. The Hyattsville library offers a variety of storytimes. Space is limited; free tickets available at the children’s desk. Ages 1-2: Mondays, 10:15 a.m. and 11 a.m. Ages 2-3: Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. Ages 3-5: Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. English-Spanish Storytime for ages 3-6: Saturdays, 11 a.m. 6530 Adelphi Rd. 301.985.4690. Community Calendar is a select listing of events happening in and around Hyattsville from the 15th of the issue month to the 15th of the following month. To submit an item for consideration, please e-mail newsdesk@hyattsvillelife.com or mail to P.O. Box 132, Hyattsville, MD 20781. Deadline for February submissions is Jan. 31.
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Join PALS (Partnering Adults with Learning Students), a program where seniors listen to children read or assist with school assignments all while enjoying light refreshments. No registration necessary. Thursdays from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Hyattsville Branch Library, 6530 Adelphi Road. 301.985.4690.
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Page 10
Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2016
NatureNearby Nature’s barbed wire — the stuff of legend, food and drink by Fred Seitz
Take a walk in Magruder woods (and in many backyards) and you see or get poked by a bright green, but quite thorny vine, known as Greenbriar (aka, catbriar). This native vine at times has been described as “invasive� because it can grow in such dense thickets that it crowds out many other plants. However, critters that can negotiate the thorns sometimes use a patch of the vine for concealment or protection from pursuing critters and surely from most humans.
Tendrils on the vines enable Greenbriar to climb branches making them more of a challenge to prune and safely pass. The tendrils can sense the touch of a branch and will increase their grip and harden as they encircle the limb, fence or whatever they attach to. Even after pruning the plant, its rhizome’s underground food storage for the plant can help it sprout again. In short, it is a tough, not so little plant, growing up to 20 plus feet tall. The plant does well in temperate environments; there are around 300 species worldwide, 20 of
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which grow in North America. It will also grow readily with familiar true invasive vines, such as English ivy. The prolific growth of the greenbriar has challenged my own and other “weed warrior� efforts in accessing and removing English ivy. Vilifying the thorny aspect of the plant comes easy when you’ve been pricked by it on a walk, but the leaves are edible for many animals (notably deer and other mammals) and the bluish berries are consumed by birds and mice who, in turn, spread the seeds for more Green-
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briar. Some species of caterpillars also use the leaves as a food source. The early shoots of the plants are even recommended as a “trail nibble� for hikers and walkers who know to mind the thorns. The roots of some of the North American species are used to make sasparilla and herbal drinks. One species of the plant’s root was used as a medicine for the sexually transmitted disease (STD) known as syphilis. Other herbal remedies ascribed to the plant were the increase of testosterone and sasparilla was also suggested to increase the amorous tendencies of the imbiber. The biological name for the plant, Smilax rotundifolia — like many biological names — comes by way of the interesting legend about a beautiful young nymph named Smilax who shunned the advances of a mortal youth named Crocus. Ironically, both the seeds of Smilax and the bulbs of Crocus rely on the winter chill to bloom again in the Spring. The somewhat sexist ending of the tale has the reluctant nymph being transformed into a thorny vine as punishment. Ironically, the flowers of smilax often have a nasty odor, inspiring the nickname cadaver flower. Sounds like Zeus was really down on the poor maid. Still, some of the local plants may display a pretty green leaf in the cold times of the year, but curious youth should beware of the thorns year round.
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Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2016
Page 11
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SHELTON D. REDDING LODGE NO. 139 Members of the Shelton D. Redding Lodge No. 139 meet at Rollingcrest Commons in Chillum. While the group has no independent space, it has been active in the Hyattsville community for over a decade.
MASONS
continued from page 1
recognition between AngloAmerican and African-American lodges continues to this day in parts of the country, only not in Hyattsville. Online reference BlackPast. org described Prince Hall Freemasonry as the oldest and largest group of masons of African origin in the world. In describing the historic fight for recognition, former SDRL master Kevin Stephen said it was only in the last decade that there has been “mutual recognition” between the Prince Hall and the Ancient Free and Accepted parent masonic bodies. Stephen said that there is still some reluctance to recognize legitimacy at the subordinate level on both sides of the masonic body in this country. SDRL meets in a space borrowed from Rollingcrest Com-
mons at 6060 Sargent Road in Chillum. Stephen said that the 20-year-old lodge's lack of geographical visibility inspires members to be more visibly active in the community. Some recent holiday services include organizing Thanksgiving food basket donations, a Redskins game potluck for senior residents at Rollingcrest, and a Christmas toy collection. Located at 4207 Gallatin Street is Hyattsville’s local lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, Mt. Hermon Lodge No. 179 (MHL), which was established in 1886. The two local lodges have shared some recent milestones that mark the growing integration and recognition of both masonic bodies. In addition to attending one another’s meetings, the two groups marched together in the 2013 Hyattsville parade and continue to collaborate in offering a free
child identification program (CHIP). A staple service of American freemasonry, CHIP creates a kit of identifying materials for a child: fingerprints, a video, a physical description and DNA sample. If a child goes missing, this kit can be used by law enforcement to enhance search efforts. Brendon Pinkham, supervisor of MHL’s CHIP program said he and other masons are eager to find events where they can offer this free and potentially life-saving service. MHL set up its CHIP program at Hyattsville’s Summer Jam this summer and at a clothing swap organized by Hyattsville parents.
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Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2016
VOTING
continued from page 1
the residents. And not just a handful.” “I really care about the experiences and the voices of all Hyattsville residents,” Council-
member Shani Warner (Ward 2) said. Councilmember Robert Croslin (Ward 2) said when considering this issue, the council needed to think about how difficult the process for obtaining citizenship for some people can be.
“I find it disconcerting that those folks — who are as committed to Hyattsville as I am — that they don’t get the right to vote.” Councilmember Kevin Ward (Ward 1) said. “I can’t sit here and say I can’t support them getting the right to vote.”
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Sunday Open House Jan. 24, 12-2 p.m. St. Jerome Academy Educational Plan Evening Presentation: Jan. 20, 7-9 pm Montessori Pre-K Open House Feb. 3, 7-8:30 p.m. Montessori Toddler Room Open House May 17, 7-9 pm
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CAROLINE SELLE The legislation sponsors proposed allowing an "affidavit of cohabitation" be accepted by the election board, which is a legal document signed by someone living with a resident, and would allow undocumented residents to vote in city elections.
Councilmember Tom Wright (Ward 3) said he was on the fence about non-citizen voting because of feedback from citizens. “I also understand the concern of those residents … concerned about allowing people who may be just transient effectively create legislation,” he said. “But I also truly believe this is … a way to get the whole population involved and not just portions of it.” Councilmember Paula Perry (Ward 4) — who, along with Councilmember Ruth Ann Frazier (Ward 5), did not support allowing non-citizens to vote — said residents do not have to be citizens to come to the council meetings and voice their concerns. “If they don’t feel that they can come to the council without having the right to vote … that’s a problem from us,” she said. The council discussed possible technical issues with the city attorney and the Hyattsville Board of Supervisors of Elections. A
year ago, the city lowered the voting age to 16, which allowed 15-year-olds to pre-register. The election board said introducing this legislation could essentially result in some people being registered twice, which would give them two votes. The election board requested a new part-time staff position come with this new legislation, because there are many tasks associated with it, including maintaining the first city-only voter roll in more than 30 years, overseeing same-day voter registration and the specialized skill of verifying residency. The election board requested the city only accept same-day voter registration on early voting days and not the day of the election, but several councilmembers still wanted to try to make it happen. Phasing in some of the proposed changes over time was put on the table. The matter will come back to the council for additional debate.
Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2016
Page 13
MissFloribunda Dear Miss Floribunda, For several years now I have purchased seeds during the Hyattsville Horticultural Society seed sale in early February and usually I have been satisfied. However, last year the tomato plants I started didn't perform well. They developed fine indoors and seemed to thrive outdoors, but I got little fruit. The tomatoes that did grow turned black and fell off. Even the possums passed them up. Could something have been wrong with those seeds? Disgruntled on Decatur Street Dear Disgruntled, The fault wasn't in the seeds, but in your soil. Although December is the ideal time to get your soil tested, it is not too late to do so. You will find your soil is deficient in calcium, which is the cause of blossom-end rot in tomatoes. While the University of Maryland no longer will test the soil for you, their website (extension.umd.edu/hgic/soils/soiltesting) provides the addresses of places where you can send soil samples for testing. Dr. Agronomosky, who used to be on the staff of the soil labs at the University of Maryland, advises against the home testing kits. They are not reliable. Here are guidelines for taking samples. First of all, don't take them when the soil is wet enough to make mud pies. Then — using a stainless steel or chrome-plated trowel, probe or spade — dig down as deeply as the roots of the plants you grow in any particular area are likely
Although December is the ideal time to get your soil tested, it is not too late to do so.
to reach. (Do not use galvanized tools because they could contaminate the soil with copper or brass.) Draw out as many as eight thin slices of soil from each area that needs testing. For example, you might want to take samples from your lawn; your vegetable garden; certain flower beds; areas where shrubs such as azaleas or boxwood are no longer thriving. Mix each batch in separate clean containers. Remove rocks and turf, and let air dry for a day. Place approximately a cup of soil from each container in separate plastic bags such as those used for sandwiches. Some labs will provide plastic bags and labels or tags to identify the soil, as well as their protocol for the informa-
tion you need to provide with each sample. The cost of testing each bag usually ranges from $10 to $20, depending on the lab. If you send soil from different areas of your garden, this will add up, but it only needs to be done every three years and more than pays for itself when you realize how many plants you save when you abide by the recommendations the lab sends you. Now that you know that the tomato seeds you bought from the country's oldest and most reputable companies, Hart and Landreth, were not below their usual high standard, let me tell you when you will have the opportunity to buy more. Saturday, Feb. 6, the Hyattsville Horticul-
tural Society will again hold its annual seed and bake sale. This year there will be no fewer than 20 different varieties of tomato seeds, including the Abe Lincoln, a big beefsteak type developed in 1923. Again we will have the magnificent old Russian heirloom variety, Paul Robeson — named by Landreth Company after the russophile African-American actor, singer and activist. Of course seeds for everybody's favorite Roma, Big Boy and Early Girl tomatoes will be available. There
will also be plenty of herb seeds to plant with the tomatoes, including 7 varieties of basil alone. New varieties of peppers will be offered, such as the Caribbean Fish Pepper and Big Jim's New Mexico hot pepper. Along with vegetable seeds you will find a wide variety of herb and flower seeds for the butterfly garden and a special information table where you can ask questions and get literature concerning butterflies and other beneficial insects. Gardening books and paraphernalia will again be on sale as well as potted primroses to brighten the dark days till spring. I hope you won't forget to sip hot drinks and lunch on hot soups and baked goods, both savory and sweet. The sale will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Mary Prangley Room on the second floor of the Hyattsville Municipal Center, 4310 Gallatin Street while HAP (Hyattsville Aging in Place) will be hosting its annual valentinemaking workshop that same morning on the ground floor, so you and your family members can enjoy both events. HAP events are open to people of all ages. If you would like to participate in some of the last-minute planning of our sale please come to the next meeting of the Hyattsville Horticultural Society at 10 a.m. on Saturday, January 17 at the Municipal Center.
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Page 14
Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2016
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