October 2017 Hyattsville Life & Times

Page 1

NEWS AROUND TOWN

Interim route on Trolley Trail expected to open near Riverdale Park Station. P. 2

CELEBRATION OF SERVICE

Local day center for the homeless celebrates its first anniversary. P. 3

City police add electric car, motorcycle to fleet

CULTURAL CONNECTIONS Columnist Julia Gaspar-Bates tells why an Australian woman loves Hyattsville. P. 4

Life&Times

By Holly Brevig

The Hyattsville City Police Department (HCPD) has added a Chevrolet Bolt electric car and a Zero Electric motorcycle to its fleet. “Now, this is not a unique idea,” said Sgt. Richard Hartnett. “There are police departments across the country that have taken in electric cars.” The difference, however, is in the make and model of the car. New York City is turning to the Chevrolet Volt, which, according to Harnett, “only goes about 35 to 40 miles on a charge, and

Vol. 14 No. 10

Hyattsville’s Community Newspaper

October 2017

A NEW LEASE ON LIFE

ELECTRIC CARS continued on page 12

Hyattsville transportation study gets rolling By Ben Simasek

The City of Hyattsville is launching a study to develop the Hyattsville Transportation Plan. This plan will help the city improve existing transportation infrastructure and carry out new projects, and it will determine priorities for the next 20 years. Two of the city’s departments — Public Works and Zoning and Planning — have teamed up, and are working with Toole Design Group to carry out a comprehensive transportation study and make recommendations, which will be presented to the public as part of an action plan in the spring. The data collection phase of the study will be carried out TRANSPORTATION continued on page 11

JULIETTE FRADIN PHOTOGRAPHY Construction is underway at the Mall at Prince Georges. The mall is now going by the acronym MPG.

The new face of the Mall at Prince Georges Real estate investment firm hopes to breathe new life into the mall with new stores, renovations

By Maria D. James

Between the large construction equipment and huge colorful banners with the words “new” and “coming soon,” it’s hard not to notice that major changes are happening to the Mall at Prince Georges. According to the mall’s owners, these exterior and interior changes are part of a major transformation driven by the goal of improving the customer shopping experience. “Our hope is to enhance curb appeal and create a bright, modern, welcoming environment,” said Heather Crowell, senior vice president of Corporate Communications and Investor Relations with Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust (PREIT), the MALL continued on page 6

CENTER SECTION: OCTOBER 10, 2017 ISSUE OF THE HYATTSVILLE REPORTER — IN ESPANOL TOO! HYATTSVILLE MD PERMIT NO. 1383

Reach every consumer in Hyattsville ... for less! Contact advertising@hyattsvillelife.com or 301-531-5234

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Page 2

Hyattsville Life & Times | October 2017

NEWS BRIEFS VISIT HYATTSVILLELIFE.COM FOR MORE RHODE ISLAND AVENUE TROLLEY TRAIL INTERIM ROUTE EXPECTED TO OPEN NEAR RIVERDALE PARK STATION IN OCTOBER A connection to the Rhode Island Avenue Trolley Trail near the Riverdale Park Station is expected to open this month, according to the College Park City-University Partnership (CPCUP), College Park’s nonprofit development corporation. A statement on CPCUP’s Facebook page states, “Since it is still a construction zone adjacent to the trail, the developers will be providing an interim route through the site as outlined ... which will avoid the construction areas.” (see plan)

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 501(c)(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. Managing Editor Maria D. James maria@hyattsvillelife.com Associate Editor Heather Wright heather@hyattsvillelife.com Digital Editor Krissi Humbard krissi@hyattsvillelife.com Webmaster Lindsay Myers lindsay@hyattsvillelife.com Layout & Design Editor Ashley Perks Copy Editor Nancy Welch Advertising advertising@hyattsvillelife.com 301.531.5234 Writers & Contributors Holly Brevig, Randy Fletcher, Jordan Fox, Juliette Fradin, Julia Gaspar-Bates, Ben Simasek Board of Directors Joseph Gigliotti — President and General Counsel Chris Currie — Vice President Caroline Selle — Secretary Emily Strab — Secretary Rosanna Landis Weaver, Gretchen Brodtman, Debra Franklin, T. Carter Ross Maria D. James and Krissi Humbard — Ex Officios 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.

COURTESY OF COLLEGE PARK CITY-UNIVERSITY PARTNERSHIP Developers are planning to provide an interim trail route on the Rhode Island Trolley Trail near Riverdale Park Station to avoid construction areas.

HYATTSVILLE CDC AWARDED COMMUNITY IMPACT GRANT FROM REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

In the July edition of the Hyattsville Life & Times, we shared information presented to the city’s Health, Wellness and Recreation Advisory Committee by the Washington Area Bicyclist Association about the half-mile extension required to connect the south end of the trail in Hyattsville and the Northwest Branch Trail. The detour around the construction zone provides cyclists and pedestrians northsouth access to and from College Park, Riverdale Park and Hyattsville until the direct trail route opens. We will continue reporting on this story. VOYA FINANCIAL HONORS CHILLUM TEACHER WITH GRANT FOR INNOVATIVE TEACHING PROGRAM On Sept. 6, Voya Financial, Inc., announced that Jay Gregorio, a teacher at The Children’s Guild in Chillum, was selected to receive a $2,000 grant as part of the company’s 2017 Voya Unsung Heroes competition. According to a press release from Voya Financial, the grants are awarded to K-12 educators nationwide to honor their innovative teaching methods, creative educational projects and ability to positively influence their students. “At Voya, we are proud to recognize the many teachers who go above and beyond to inspire a love of learning in their classrooms,” said Heather Lavallee, president of Tax-Exempt Mar-

COURTESY OF JAY GREGORIO Jay Gregorio

kets at Voya Financial. “Understanding that we all learn differently, these teachers have developed unique programs to engage the minds of each and every student. This aligns with [Voya Financial’s] desire to help all Americans prepare for their unique financial futures. We are honored to empower Jay Gregorio to continue to impact the lives of young people who will one day be the future leaders of our communities.” Gregorio’s innovative teaching idea, “Eureka for the IDEA!,” is a STEM-based project designed to provide opportunities for the special education population, engaging students in hands-on activities that encourage critical

thinking, collaboration and creativity. “Eureka for the IDEA!” will use a project-based learning approach which recognizes and addresses students’ interests in experimenting, drawing, designing and building. Each stage of the project will incorporate new vocabulary, exercises in reading comprehension, the use of technology in presentations and communication strategies. Selected from more than 1,200 applicants, Gregorio is one of only 100 winners across the country who will receive this award. He will now compete with other finalists for one of the top three prizes — an additional $5,000, $10,000 or $25,000 from Voya Financial.

The Hyattsville Community Development Corporation (CDC) was awarded a $50,000 Community Impact Grant (CIG) from the Redevelopment Authority of Prince George’s County. These grants are given to community-based organizations that are incorporated, 501(c)(3) entities to help implement innovative, community-based projects within the county’s inner beltway. The Hyattsville CDC will use grant funds to create signage along the Rhode Island Avenue Trolley Trail and the Northwest Branch Trail. This project is aimed at transforming the area into a riverwalk that will increase tourism in the county’s Gateway Arts District. The CIG funding supports installation of a signage kiosk, design and printing of signage information, and completion of the Hyattsville Veterans Memorial. “In many instances, a small infusion of capital dollars can take a community project from the planning phase to implementation,” said Howard W. Ways, executive director of the Redevelopment Authority of Prince George’s County. “Community impact grants help organizations build their capacity and strengthen their communities.”


Hyattsville Life & Times | October 2017

Page 3

COURTESY OF JOYCE AND HARRY KORAB PG Plaza Day Center has been in operation since Oct. 5, 2016, at University Christian Church on Adelphi Road.

PG Plaza Day Center celebrates one year of community service By Heather Wright

During the summer of 2015, Rev. Nathan Hill watched as police escorted a homeless man out of a library for taking off his socks. The reverend’s University Christian Church had been hosting Warm Nights and Safe Haven programs for the homeless, but Hill wondered where their guests went when they left the premises in the morning. Hill noticed that some homeless people spent time at the library, which was usually very accommodating. But when this particular man removed his socks, other patrons complained, and the situation escalated. Hill said he had an idea: “There needs to be a place ‌ where they can sit, take off their socks [and] do whatever it is. They need a place.â€? Furthermore, Hill said he had the conviction that “it should be a church. The church should be a place where you don’t get kicked out if you need to take off your socks.â€? About a week later, he heard Donny Phillips, Warm Nights shelter manager with Community Crisis Services, Inc., say that Prince George’s County needed a place for the homeless to go during the day. Hill started to talk to Phillips about starting a day center at University Christian for homeless and low-income individuals. Hill, Phillips and several others toured Howard County’s Day Resource Center and talked to people at food programs, such as First United Methodist of

Hyattsville’s Community CafĂŠ, to figure out what services could and should be provided. Hill talked to churches that were part of Congregations United for Compassion and Empowerment, a group of Route 1 Corridor churches, and joined them in starting the day center. After a year of planning, PG Plaza Day Center opened on Oct. 4, 2016, at University Christian. They celebrated their first anniversary at the day center on Thursday, Oct. 5. PG Plaza Day Center’s Facebook page describes the center as “a welcoming, compassionate space for homeless neighbors and others in need.â€? Hill said that it was important for the center to have a “non-anxiousâ€? feel. To that end, participants can sign up for a shower or laundry services and then relax without having to wait in a line. A volunteer lets them know when it’s their turn. The center and is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 6 p.m. and provides a meal, coffee, shower and laundry services, charging outlets, toiletries, socks and underwear, space to relax and spiritual support. Other ongoing services include social work case management, mental health assessments and support through QCI Behavioral Health. Some services are provided on an intermittent basis. For example, 10 guests were able to attend a free dental clinic held in September at the University of Maryland (UMD). PG PLAZA DAY continued on page 9

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Hyattsville Life & Times | October 2017

CulturalConnections

Community transformed Australian resident’s experience By Julia Gaspar-Bates

Growing up in a small town in New South Wales, Australian resident Mandy Sheffer never expected that she would expatriate to the U.S. Born to British parents who had emigrated to Australia, Sheffer claims that she had a very average childhood: “I went to an all-girls Catholic high school. I went to college in Canberra and lived with my parents, which is quite common in Australia.” At 19, Sheffer participated in a cultural exchange to live and work at a ski resort in the U.S., a practice common with many young Australians. “I ended up at Wintergreen Ski Resort outside Charlottesville, thinking that I would do childcare. However, when I arrived, I found out I was also a ski instructor. I mostly taught 2- to 3-year-olds to ski.” Soon after her arrival in Charlottesville, Mandy met her now-husband, Thomas Sheffer, who worked

COURTESY OF MANDY SHAFFER Mandy Sheffer and sons

at the resort on weekends while going to school. She claims that she knew right away that she would marry him. For the next two years, they visited each other’s country on extended tourist visas. In 2004, six months before Thomas graduated from college, they realized that they couldn’t continue the long-distance relationship indefinitely. Thomas proposed to Mandy so they could apply for a fiancé visa. Following graduation, Thomas joined Mandy in Canberra, Australia, where they got married and lived with her parents while she completed her degree.

When Sheffer finished her studies in 2006, the couple decided to move to Brisbane, Australia. For the next few years, they encountered challenges as each tried to navigate life together in a new culture. “It was hard, being that young and married and getting to know each other. Previously, every time we saw each other, it was like a prolonged honeymoon.” They decided to return to Virginia, so Thomas could start graduate school in Blacksburg. “Moving here, I was desperately lonely. Thomas was immersed in school and work, so he was busy. I didn’t recognize it at the time, but looking back, I was quite depressed. At the same time, it’s a privilege to live in a different country, and not everybody gets that opportunity.” After Thomas finished grad school, the couple relocated to Alexandria and started anew. Again, Sheffer struggled to find a sense of belonging. “I really missed home.

Community Conversations

The Hyattsville Police Department is partnering with our faith communities to host a series of community-building conversations with residents. Please join us.

Not being in a school environment and jumping from different jobs, I didn’t have a community. Most people had a community through growing up, work or school, and it was hard to break into it.” Despite many similarities between American and Australian cultures, Sheffer experienced culture shock in small ways, such as “finding food that doesn’t have sugar in it.” She continued, “You learn in America that you have to read labels a lot. Also, there is so much choice that it was overwhelming. People are very friendly, but I was more of an open book and willing to share things, whereas people weren’t as open here. People always ask you what you do, your job, what you make. At home, the emphasis is what you do after work, your lifestyle. Australian culture is very laid-back and casual. Nobody cares what you do or how much you make, at least where I’m from. People are friendly; everyone smiles and says, ‘Hi.’”

After getting pregnant with their first son, Mandy and Thomas realized that they wanted to buy a home. A friend in Mt. Rainier recommended checking out the Hyattsville area, as it was more affordable. They found a house in Hyattsville, and immediately loved it and the community. “Everyone was so nice, and told us we had to join the mum’s [Nurturing Moms] listserv. Soon after we moved in, some neighbors organized a play date. I got dressed up. I was so nervous, but everyone was so sweet and welcoming. It felt like I knew everyone forever. The friends we have made here are like family. If we hadn’t moved to Hyattsville, I would have wanted to move back to Australia much sooner, but because of this community, it is the main thing that makes me want to stay in the U.S. It’s my anchor here. But Australia is always my home. We need to find a magic solution to have two lives. If I had the choice to move Hyattsville to Australia, I would do that in a heartbeat.” Julia Gaspar-Bates is a cross-cultural trainer and consultant. “Cultural Connections” is dedicated to bringing forth the voices of immigrants and foreigners who have settled in Hyattsville.

Conversaciónes Comunitarias

La Policía de Hyattsville está colaborando con las comunidades de fe para hacer una serie de conversaciones con residentes para fortalecer nuestra ciudad. Acompáñenos.

August 24, 7-8:30 p.m. Seventh Day Adventist Church 4905 42nd Place

24 de Agosto, 7-8:30 p.m. Seventh Day Adventist Church 4905 42nd Place

September 21, 7-8:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Hyattsville 5701 42nd Avenue

21 de Septiembre, 7-8:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Hyattsville 5701 42nd Avenue

October 19, 7-8:30 p.m. St. Matthews Episcopal Church 5901 36th Avenue

19 de Octubre, 7-8:30 p.m. Iglesia San Mateo 5901 36th Avenue

November 16, 7-8:30 p.m. First United Methodist Church 6201 Belcrest Road

16 de Noviembre, 7-8:30 p.m. First United Methodist Church 6201 Belcrest Road

For more information please contact Chief Douglas Holland at dholland@hyattsville.org or 301-985-5084

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Hyattsville Life & Times | October 2017

Page 5

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Hyattsville Life & Times | October 2017

MALL

continued from page 1

mall’s owners. “We really want to provide shoppers with a modern feel and a completely new experience,” said Crowell. New Dining Options & Retailers In April 2016, the Hyattsville Life & Times (HL&T) reported on breaking news that PREIT announced it would invest $25 million into a major overhaul of the mall. In December 2016, H&M held its grand opening. Since then, the mall has welcomed several new stores, including Footaction (Flight 23 and Nike Kicks Lounge), Bath & Body Works/White Barn and Macy’s Backstage. Old Navy has relocated next door to the gym, Planet Fitness, which is also new to the mall. According to a press release issued by the mall’s public relations agency, urban fashion and footwear store DTLR will open at the end of October. Then, in November, Victoria’s Secret/PINK will open. The new store includes the company’s PINK product line that is targeted to young adults and older teenagers. Chelsea’s Beauty Supply is expected to reopen in the fall, as well. ULTA Beauty and Designer Shoe Warehouse (DSW) are ex-

JULIETTE FRADIN PHOTOGRAPHY Mall exteriors are still being embellished, but renovations should be completed before the holiday season.

pected to open in April 2018. A buildout for both stores is currently underway inside Old Navy’s old space. During the renovation, a few stores have a new home. Lane Bryant has moved next to Payless Shoes, and Rainbow is now next to 5th Avenue Beauty Supply. Visitors may find the new store locations on the mall’s directory online at mallatprincegeorges.com. New dining options are also coming to the mall. Charley’s Philly Cheesesteaks opened inside the mall during the summer. Outside the mall, three new walk-up restaurants are expected to open around the first of November: Mezeh Mediterranean

Grill, Chipotle Mexican Grill and Five Guys Burgers & Fries. PREIT’s Crowell confirmed that contract negotiations are still underway for a new familystyle dining restaurant, which is expected to be built near retailer T.J. Maxx. As of press time, PREIT was unable to disclose the name of the new restaurant. The mall’s long-time marketing director, Victoria Clark, provided an update on renovations to the food court. “Starting the first week of November, if you go into the food court you’ll notice new furniture. If you look up, you’ll also notice changes overhead that will bring in more natural light,” said Clark. The new furnishings

will include high-top tables and electrical sockets that can be used for cell phone charging. In late August, retailer Macy’s hosted a grand opening for its new outlet, Macy’s Backstage, on the second level. This is Macy’s third outlet to open in the D.C. area. “Macy’s Backstage is a new experience for our customer who enjoys the thrill of the hunt providing fashion and brands at a great value,” said Tim Baxter, Macy’s chief merchandising officer, in a press release. Macy’s store manager, Shanika Weakly, said Macy’s Backstage is the retailer’s response to the growing trend of customers seeking off-price shopping. “You have a T.J. Maxx, Ross and Marshalls, who took over on the off-price offerings, so we had to join the fun,” said Weakly. “We receive the latest and greatest in-season, which is different from other stores.” New Look & Branding New retailers and dining options aren’t the only things shoppers have noticed at the mall. Another big difference is that the mall’s exterior is natural wood, rather than stone. According to Crowell, updating the look of the exterior and entrances was important to changing the image of the mall. Then there is the shift from

using the name Mall at Prince Georges to the shorter acronym, MPG. “When we first purchased the mall, we changed the name from Prince George’s Plaza to the Mall at Prince Georges; now we’re hoping the community will embrace MPG,” said Crowell. Crowell said that PREIT and mall developers are working closely with the city to listen to what the community wants. The new branding, retailers and renovations are all changes PREIT is introducing to improve the customer experience. Clark added that a post on the mall’s Facebook page invited the community to provide input on what they would like to see at the mall. Including a Trader Joe’s was one popular request. With new stores and dining options comes an increase in patrons and concerns around parking. Clark emphasized the mall is ready for the increase, and has been working to decrease the number of riders who park at the mall to ride Metro. For Clark, who this year celebrates 10 years with the mall, being a part of the planning and watching the renovations unfold is exciting. “There is talk of sidewalk seating for the restaurants. ... We’re looking at introducing a totally new experience. I am really thrilled to see the changes.”

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Hyattsville Life & Times | October 2017

Page 7

Then&Now Then A rumination on Heurich’s dairy farm the cattle cooling themselves in the crystalline waters. The sire of the herd, “Design Again,” will one day fetch $3,700. The owner has taken great care of, and has given personal attention to, every detail of this farm. As with his brewing company, “purity” is his watchword. Bellevue — “beautiful view” — is the name of this dairy farm. According to the owner, Bellevue milk is the purest and cleanest in the land. Healthy cows deliver healthful milk. The milk is pumped using the most sanitary and modern equipment. Two hundred gallons a day are processed and bottled. Sold for ten cents a quart, but deemed to be worth much more, it is then delivered by the Bellevue wagons to the city for distribution to Washington’s most exacting citizens. The farm stood for years as a testament to agricultural ingenuity. But soon the city encroached upon the countryside, and the dairy farm was sold, the buildings razed.

By Randy Fletcher

As I wait for the light to turn green at the corner of Belcrest Road and Route 410, I wonder what it felt like to be here, at this very spot, before what I see now was standing. What would the ground feel like beneath my feet? What would the air smell like? Crisp apples? Honey? Wheat? Rewind: 1916 The lovely, two-story clapboard house with wrap-around porch and striped awnings stands to the right, a quiet oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the growing city. The owner, a wealthy brewer with a towering Gilded-Age mansion in the city, comes to this tree-shaded summer retreat with his family to get the prescribed rest and country fresh air they need. Driving up the road, I can see them in the distance, standing like sentinels watching over this land — eight tall structures made of concrete. Their purpose is mysterious, these strong vessels made to endure. “Missiles” was a rumor at one point, but considering the surrounding land, it seems apparent that they hold feed for the cows that graze here. These concrete silos were not built to contain weapons of destruction, but rather to preserve precious grain. The barn, a strangely unusual concrete structure, looks like it was made to stand forever. Fireproof. Fool proof. The ceilings, made of concrete and iron, soar above without apparent support

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COURTESY OF THE HEURICH HOUSE COLLECTIONS CORNER BLOG Top: The Bellevue Dairy was located in the area of what is now the Mall at Prince Georges. Above: Cows graze at the Bellevue Dairy (undated photo).

— an advance in constructive science. Architects from all over the land come to marvel at the success of this undertaking. We’re driving past the barn now, and the immense herd is coming into view: gleaming, gorgeously

healthy creatures. They are Holsteins and Durhams and the famous Angler stock that roam these pastures. As we approach the narrow bridge crossing the Northwest Branch of the Anacostia River, we can see some of

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Fast Forward Suddenly, it’s today. I can no longer see the farm and summer retreat. The strong silos and barn of concrete are gone, replaced by concrete of a different sort. Massive buildings and paved roadways have replaced the agricultural buildings. The springs have dried up or have been forced elsewhere. Thousands of people visit the mall where once stood a home for quiet, rest and fresh air. The light turns green. It’s beautiful outside, and I have the windows rolled down. I can hear music all around me: Latin, rhythm and blues, top 40 hits. I don’t hear the sound of cowbells, nor do I know if the Bellevue herd wore them. Instead of cows slowly roaming the fields, herds of vehicles quickly pass through, unaware of what once was. All that remains of the dairy

farm is a pond shaped like a 9 and the name of a German immigrant who brought beer to Washington, D.C. The name of a man who arrived with little money and no title, but who, at one time, owned more land and employed more people than anyone else in the city, other than the federal government. Even the massive brewery that he built in the District is gone, replaced by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. What remains of the farm is the name of a field at DeMatha High School and a park, both called Heurich — after a man named Christian Heurich. Addendum Bellevue, a 376-acre estate in West Hyattsville, was once the summer home of the late Washington brewer, Christian Heurich, and a first-class dairy farm. Heurich immigrated from Germany to the United States in 1866. In 1872, he founded Christian Heurich Brewing Company in Washington, D.C. The brewery was first located at Dupont Circle, and then, in 1895, was relocated to a much larger site between what is now the Theodore Roosevelt Bridge and the Kennedy Center. The brewery closed in 1956 and was torn down in 1961. The Heurichs lived in a mansion, sometimes called the Brewmaster’s Castle, at Dupont Circle. Heurich’s breweries suffered several fires, which led him to build his brewery, his house and the dairy farm structures to withstand fire. His Washington residence is now a museum (Heurich House Museum), and is open to the public. Christian Heurich died at the age of 102 in 1945. The Hyattsville Preservation Association seeks to engage residents in the preservation and promotion of the many historic homes and buildings in our city: www.preservehyattsville.org. Information in “Rewind: 1916” taken from an Evening Star article, February 24, 1901.

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Hyattsville Life & Times | October 2017

the

Hyattsville Reporter No. 355 • October 10, 2017

Prince George’s Plaza Community Center, Second Floor Conference Room, 6600 Adelphi Road Ward Four Meeting: Monday, October 23, 7:00 p.m. St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, Parish Hall, 5901 36th Avenue Ward Five Meeting: Wednesday, October 25, 7:00 p.m. Magruder Park Recreation Center, 3911 Hamilton Street

New Police Department

You’re invited to an open house for the future home of the City of Hyattsville’s Police Department at 3505 Hamilton Street on October 11, 6 p.m. – 8p.m. City staff will be there to answer any questions, and refreshments will be served.

Hyattsville Zombie Run

The annual fundraising fun run of the Hyattsville Elementary School PTA is taking place Saturday, October 14. Join your community for the Zombie Run 5K, 1-Mile Kids Run, and Family Fun 1K while raising money for a neighborhood school. Learn more and sign up at www.hyattsvillees-pta. org/zombie-run-registration! Volunteers are needed to help set up the race route, serve as race marshals, set up tables, chairs and tents, and then clean up afterwards. This is a large scale, family friendly event – and it’s a lot of fun. Volunteers can sign up at www. hyattsvillees-pta.org/zombie-run-volunteers and are encouraged to dress, well, like a Zombie! It’s a great opportunity for clubs, sports teams, student groups, and other organizations to serve together – and the PTA will also have the Prince George’s County Public School Student Service Learning Verification forms on hand. Please also note that no parking will be allowed along the race route on October 14 from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. Race course streets will be closed to traffic during the races, and will reopen once the course is clear of runners. Not sure if you’re on the race route? Visit www.hyattsville.org/5K and review our notice to residents of streets affected by this event.

Free Clothing, Toys & More!

The HY-SWAP is a community exchange of free infant, children’s and maternity clothing, toys and gear organized by Hyattsville residents. Donations are collected over several weeks, sorted, and then a pop-up boutique is set up in the City Building where anyone is welcome to “shop the swap,” and entry and everything is free. The next HY-SWAP is October 14, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. at 4310 Gallatin Street. Doors open at 11 a.m. for Hyattsville families and friends, and the general public is welcome starting at 1 p.m. The goal is to share and circulate items in good condition within the community, providing savings for local families and reducing waste. Cash donations are appreciated to help cover costs. For more information, check out www. hy-swap.com or email Emily Palus at hyswap@gmail.com.

Police Conversations

Join the City of Hyattsville’s Police Department, Hyattsville’s faith leaders, and your friends and neighbors as we continue to build a stronger community. The next Community Conversation will be on Thursday, October 19, 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., at Saint Matthew’s Episcopal Church (5901 36th Avenue). For more information, contact Chief Douglas Holland at dholland@hyattsville.org or (301) 985-5084.

Mini Camp Magruder

Your youngster can join us while school is closed but you still have to work on Friday, October 20, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. This Mini Camp Magruder will focus on healthy eating habits and the essentials for starting your own cookbook! The cost is $30. For more information, contact Saarah Abdul-Rauf at (301) 985-5065 or visit www.hyattsville.org/campmagruder.

Community Cleanup Days

Electronics and Paint Recycling Drop Off: Electronics can be dropped off free of charge on Saturday, October 21, 7 a.m. – 1 p.m., at 4633 Arundel Place. This includes batteries, cameras, cell phones, electrical cords, computers, monitors, keyboards, laptops, microwaves, toasters, toaster ovens, TVs, video games, video consoles, and CD players. Hyattsville Public Works staff will be on-site to answer any questions you may have. Yuck Old Paint staff will be there, as well. They’re recycling wet paint, in its original container, for $5 per container. Questions? Call (888) 509-YUCK (9825). Mary Prangley Cleanup Day: Please place all bulk trash items curbside on Friday, October 27, after 6 p.m. for collection on Saturday morning. Free of charge, rain or shine, the City will pick up mattresses, box springs, chairs, tables, room doors, grills, swings, cabinets, empty paint cans, TV carts, bathtubs, sinks, toilets, and wall units. Questions? Call (301) 985-5000.

Sunset Movie Series

Come out to Heurich Park on Friday, October 27, at 7:00 p.m. for the final film in this year’s Sunset Movie Series, “Hotel Transylvania.” Bring your blankets or chairs and enjoy a FREE movie in the park!

www.hyattsville.org • 301-985-5000

Community Shred Event

The City of Hyattsville and Stericycle are hosting a Community Shred event on Saturday, November 4, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., for residents to shred paper documents for FREE in the parking lot of the City Building (4310 Gallatin Street). Please remove paper from binders and remove binder clips and other large metal pieces. If you have any questions, please call (301) 985-5000.

Free Memory Screenings

Spooky Fest

We’ll have a spooktacular afternoon on Saturday, October 28, 1 – 3 p.m., as we partner with the Hyattsville Branch Library to bring you scary stories, seasonal crafts, a costume contest (for ages 12 and under), a photo booth, and tons of music and dancing. Meet us at the Center Court of University Town Center for this FREE FUN!

Family Resource Workshops

You can keep your family healthy and happy with various low-cost, bilingual resources in our community. Join us at any or all of these events so you can learn more: Wednesday, October 11, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Family Literacy University Park Elementary (4315 Underwood Street) Wednesday, October 18, 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Family Nutrition Hyattsville Elementary School (5311 43rd Avenue) Thursday, October 19, 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. Keeping Your Kids Safe Online Rosa L. Parks Elementary School (6111 Ager Road) Wednesday, October 25, 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Job Preparation Edward M. Felegy Elementary School (6110 Editors Park Drive) Wednesday, November 1, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Keeping Your Kids Safe Online Hyattsville Middle School (6001 42nd Avenue) Thursday, November 2, 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Education Resources for Your Kids Rosa L. Parks Elementary School (6111 Ager Road) Tuesday, November 7, 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Keeping Your Kids Safe Online Nicholas Orem Middle School (6100 Editors Park Drive) Thursday, November 9, 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Immigration Law Edward M. Felegy Elementary School (6110 Editors Park Drive)

Talking Transportation

The City of Hyattsville is launching a study to develop the Hyattsville Transportation Plan. This plan will help the City improve existing transportation infrastructure, carry out new projects, and determine priorities for the next 20 years. The planning process should be completed in early 2018. Our first meeting with the public on September 20 helped a great deal – but we still want to hear what you think! You can provide input on current transportation issues at bit.ly/ HyattsvilleTMP. Prefer to talk in person? Swing by the City Building (4310 Gallatin Street) on Tuesdays (9 a.m. - 12 p.m.) and Thursdays (12 p.m. - 4 p.m.) in October to share your transportation-related concerns and aspirations with project staff. For more information, please contact Project Manager Hal Metzler at hmetzler@hyattsville.org. There will also be meetings this month in each of the City’s Five Wards to discuss the Transportation Study. Not sure which Ward is yours? Find out at www.hyattsville.org/ map and join us at your Ward Meeting! Ward One Meeting: Monday, October 30, 7:00 p.m. City Municipal Building, First Floor Multipurpose Room, 4310 Gallatin Street Ward Two Meeting: Thursday, October 12, 7:00 p.m. Magruder Park Recreation Center, 3911 Hamilton Street Ward Three Meeting: Wednesday, October 18, 7:00 p.m.

Concerned about memory loss? The City of Hyattsville, Hyattsville Aging in Place (HAP), and the Alzheimer’s Association invite you to be privately and confidentially screened and given a brief assessment on Thursday, November 9, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the City Building (4310 Gallatin Street). Pre-registration is required, so call (301) 887-3101 today.

Magruder Park Teen Club

The Magruder Park Teen Club continues each Friday, 6 p.m. – 9:30 p.m., during the school year! Teens ages 13 to 18 from Hyattsville and the surrounding area, as well as Northwestern students, can join us at Magruder Park for good food, new friends, and lots of fun! Remember: You’ll need your ID, proof of age, parent/guardian signature, and emergency contact information when you register. Northwestern students must also bring their school ID.

We’re Hiring

Serve your community by working for our local government! We’re currently seeking police officers, a crime analyst, a television and video coordinator, and a contracted part-time grant writer. Visit www.hyattsville.org/jobs for more information and to apply.

Public Parking Made Easy

You can now save time by purchasing your monthly public parking lot permits via our secure online portal at www. hyattsville.org/publicparking. Permits can be purchased for up to three months at a time. Be sure to have your vehicle and supplemental information available before submitting a parking permit application and REMEMBER: physical permits will not be issued for permits acquired online. If you have any questions, please email parking@hyattsville. org or call (301) 985-5000.

Wanted: Volunteer Drivers

Volunteer drivers are needed for up to five days a week, typically from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., to deliver meals to seniors and people with disabilities. Volunteers can be reimbursed for mileage up to $25 per month. To help meet this need, please call (301) 985-5057 or send an email to caistis@hyattsville.org.

Language Exchange Volunteers

We’re looking for proficient English speakers who want to make new friends and eat good food, all while helping students bake and practice their English skills. The City of Hyattsville is partnering with Prince George’s Community College’s Adult Education Program to offer a language exchange and baking class that meets Tuesdays and Thursdays at Hyattsville Mennonite Church, 9:30 am - 12:30 pm, from September 26th to December 12th. There will even be opportunities to learn how to prepare a dish or two from the students’ home countries! Volunteers are especially needed on Thursdays in October, but we can work with your schedule. If interested, call (301) 5468350 and see how you can get involved.

Mentors Needed

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the National Capital Area is partnering with the City of Hyattsville to build a local mentorship network. We welcome all volunteers, and have a high demand for Big Brothers. All mentors will participate in an orientation and training, and undergo a background check. If you’re interested in serving as a mentor to a Hyattsville youth, please contact Sydney Cross at (301)-7949170 ext. 15 or scross@bbbsnca.org for more information.

City Updates

Visit www.hyattsville.org/notifyme and sign up to receive email and text message notifications from the City of Hyattsville!


Hyattsville Life & Times | October 2017

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el

Reportero de

Hyattsville

No. 355 • 10 de Octubre, 2017

Nuevo Departamento de Policía

Están invitados a una exposición del hogar futuro del Departamento de Policía de la Ciudad de Hyattsville en 3505 Calle Hamilton el 11 de octubre, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Empleados de la Ciudad estarán ahí para responder a sus preguntas. Habrá refrescos, también.

Carrera de Zombis en Hyattsville

Las carreras divertidísimas del PTA de Hyattsville Elementary para recaudar fondos tendrán lugar el sábado, 14 de octubre. Únanse a su comunidad para la Carrera de Zombis 5K, Carrera de 1 Milla para Niños y la Carrera de Familias 1K mientras recaudamos fondos para una escuela local. ¡Vean más y regístrense en www.hyattsvillees-pta.org/ zombie-run-registration! Se necesita voluntarios para ayudar a preparar la ruta de carrera, dirigir a los corredores, poner mesas y sillas y, luego, limpiar después del evento. Este evento es para toda la familia y es bastante grande, además de muy divertido. Estos voluntarios pueden inscribirse en www.hyattsvillees-pta. org/zombie-run-volunteers y se alienta que se visten como, pues, ¡zombis! Es una gran oportunidad de servir para todos los clubs, equipos, grupos estudiantiles y otras organizaciones – y el PTA tendrá en mano los formularios de verificar participación en el Prince George’s County Public School Student Service Learning. También, tengan en cuenta que se prohibirá el estacionamiento en la ruta de las carreras el 14 de octubre de las 6 a.m. hasta las 11 a.m. Se van a cerrar las calles de la ruta durante las carreras, reabriéndolas cuando ya no haya personas en la ruta. ¿No saben si su calle está en la ruta? Visiten www.hyattsville.org/5K para revisar nuestro aviso para residentes de calles afectadas por este evento.

¡Ropa, Juguetes y Más, Gratis!

El HY-SWAP es un intercambio de ropa, juguetes y cosas para bebés, niños, y mujeres embarazadas organizdo por residentes de Hyattsville. Donaciones están recolectado durante varias semanas, organizado, y después disponible en una tienda “pop-up” en el Edificio Municipal donde cualquier persona puede “comprar” y la entrada y todas las cosas son gratis. El próximo HY-SWAP es 14 de octubre, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. a 4310 Calle Gallatin. Las puertas se abren a las 11 a.m. para familias y amigos de Hyattsville y al público a partir de la 1 p.m. La meta es compartir y circular cosas en buena condición entre la comunidad, apoyando a familias locales y disminuyendo la cantidad de basura. Donaciones de efectivo están bienvenidas para cubrir el costo del evento. Para más información, visiten www.hy-swap.com o escriban a Emily Palus en hyswap@gmail.com.

Conversaciones con la Policía

Únanse al Departamento de Policía de la Ciudad de Hyattsville, a líderes de fe y a sus amigos y vecinos mientras seguimos fortaleciendo nuestra comunidad. La próxima Conversación Comunitaria con nuestra policía tendrá lugar jueves, el 19 de octubre, 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., en la Iglesia San Mateo (5901 Avenida 36). Para más información, contacten a Jefe de Policía Douglas Holland en dholland@hyattsville.org o al (301) 985-5084.

Mini Camp Magruder

El viernes, 20 de octubre, de las 8 a.m. a las 6 p.m., ¡sus niños pueden unirse a nosotros si su escuela está cerrada, pero ustedes todavía tienen que trabajar! Este Mini Camp Magruder se va a enfocar en cómo se pueden comer más sano, ¡además de cómo preparar sus propios libros de cocina! Sale $30 por el día. Para más información, contacten a Saarah Abdul-Rauf en (301) 985-5065 o visiten a www.hyattsville.org/campmagruder.

Días de Limpieza en la Comunidad

Entrega de Electrónicos y Pinta para Reciclaje: El sábado, 21 de octubre, 7 a.m. – 1 p.m., se pueden llevar sus electrónicos a 4633 Arundel Place para reciclaje gratis. Esto incluye pilas, cámaras, teléfonos, celulares, cables eléctricos, computadoras, monitores, teclados, computadoras portátiles, microondas, hornos tostadores, televisiones, juegos de video, consolas de video y tocadiscos. Empleados de Obras Publicas estarán allí para contestar sus preguntas. Empleados de Yuck Old Paint estarán ahí, también. Reciclan pinta mojada, en su contenedor original, por $5 por cada contenedor. ¿Preguntas? Llame (888) 509-YUCK (9825). Día de Limpieza Mary Prangley: Dejen sus basuras grandes en el bordillo el viernes, 27 de octubre, después de las 6:00 p.m. La Ciudad las recogerá (gratis) en la mañana del sábado. Se pueden dejar colchones, bases de cama, sil-

las, mesas, puertas, parrillas, columpios, gabinetes, latas vacías de pintura, televisores, carretas, bañeras y unidades de pared. ¿Preguntas? Llamen al (301) 985-5000.

Serie de Películas al Atardecer

Vengan al Parque Heurich viernes, el 27 de octubre, a las 7:00 p.m., para la última película en nuestra Serie de Películas al Atardecer de este año, “Hotel Transylvania.” ¡Lleven sus mantas y sillas y disfrútense de una película GRATIS en el parque!

Spooky Fest

Vamos a tener una tarde fantasma-tico el sábado, 28 de octubre, 1 – 3 p.m., mientras trabajamos con la Biblioteca de Hyattsville para presentar historias de miedo, artes, un concurso de disfraces para niños menores de 12 años, una cabina de fotos y mucha música y baile. ¡Únanse a nosotros en el Center Court de University Town Center para la diversión GRATIS!

Talleres de Recursos Comunitarios

Se pueden mantener sus familias sanas y felices con varios recursos bilingües y de bajo costo en nuestra comunidad. Únanse a nosotros en todos los eventos siguientes y aprendan más: Miércoles, el 11 de octubre, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Leer y Escribir con la Familia University Park Elementary (4315 Underwood Street) Miércoles, el 18 de octubre, 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Nutrición Para la Familia Hyattsville Elementary School (5311 43rd Avenue) Jueves, el 19 de octubre 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. Seguridad en Línea Para Sus Niños Rosa L. Parks Elementary School (6111 Ager Road) Miércoles, el 25 de octubre, 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Capacidades Para el Trabajo Edward M. Felegy Elementary School (6110 Editors Park Drive) Miércoles, el 1 de noviembre, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Seguridad en Línea Para Sus Niños Hyattsville Middle School (6001 42nd Avenue) Jueves, el 2 de noviembre, 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Recursos Educativos Para Sus Niños Rosa L. Parks Elementary School (6111 Ager Road) Martes, el 7 de noviembre, 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Seguridad en Línea Para Sus Niños Nicholas Orem Middle School (6100 Editors Park Drive) Jueves, el 9 de noviembre, 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Leyes de Inmigración Edward M. Felegy Elementary School (6110 Editors Park Drive)

Hablando de Transportación

La Ciudad de Hyattsville está lanzando un estudio para ayudar a desarrollar el Plan de Transportación de Hyattsville. Este plan ayudará a la Ciudad en mejorar la infraestructura de transportación ya existente, realizar nuevos proyectos y determinar prioridades para los próximos 20 años. El proceso de planificación debería ser cumplida para los principios de 2018. La primera reunión con el público el 20 de septiembre ayudó mucho a la Ciudad – ¡y todavía quisiéramos su opinión! Se pueden dar comentarios en asuntos de transportación vigentes en bit.ly/HyattsvilleTMP. ¿Prefieren hablar con alguien en persona? Pasen por el Edificio Municipal (4310 Calle Gallatin) los martes (9 a.m. - 12 p.m.) y jueves (12 p.m. - 4 p.m.) en octubre para compartir sus preocupaciones y sus ideales con empleados trabajando en el proyecto. Para más información, por favor contacten al Gerente de Proyectos, Hal Metzler, en hmetzler@hyattsville.org. También habrá reuniones este mes en cada de los Cinco Distritos de la Ciudad para hablar del estudio de transportación. ¿No saben cuál es su Distrito? ¡Averígüenlo en www. hyattsville.org/map y únanse a nosotros en la reunión de su Distrito! Reunión de Distrito Uno: Lunes, el 30 de octubre, 7:00 p.m. Edificio Municipal, Primer Piso, 4310 Calle Gallatin Reunión de Distrito Dos: Jueves, el 12 de octubre, 7:00 p.m. Recreation Center de Parque Magruder, 3911 Calle Hamilton Reunión de Distrito Tres: Miércoles, el 18 de octubre, 7:00 p.m. Prince George’s Plaza Community Center, Segundo Piso, 6600 Adelphi Road Reunión de Distrito Cuatro: Lunes, el 23 de octubre, 7:00 p.m. Iglesia San Mateo, 5901 Avenida 36 Reunión de Distrito Cinco: Miércoles, el 25 de octubre, 7:00 p.m. Recreation Center de Parque Magruder, 3911 Calle Hamilton

www.hyattsville.org • 301-985-5000

¡Hagamos Trizas Sus Papeles!

La Ciudad de Hyattsville y Stericycle están organizando un evento para hacer trizas sus documentos y papeles GRATIS el sábado, 4 de noviembre, de 9:00 a.m. a 12:00 p.m. en 4310 Calle Gallatin. Por favor retiren sus papeles de cualquier carpeta o cuaderno además de quitarlos de grapas y otros metales. Si tienen preguntas, favor de llamar al (301) 985-5000.

Chequeos de Memoria Gratis

¿Les preocupa una disminución de su capacidad de memoria? La Ciudad de Hyattsville, Hyattsville Aging in Place (HAP) y la Asociación para el Alzhéimer les invitan al Edificio Municipal (4310 Calle Gallatin) el jueves, 9 de noviembre, desde las 10 a.m. hasta las 12 p.m., para chequeos y evaluaciones privados y gratis. Se requiere inscribirse de antemano, así que llamen al (301) 887-3101 hoy.

Club de Adolescentes En Parque Magruder

¡El Club de Adolescentes en Parque Magruder seguirá cada viernes, 6 p.m. – 9:30 p.m., durante el año académico! Adolescentes entre 13 y 18 años de edad en Hyattsville y sus alrededores, además de estudiantes de Northwestern, pueden unirse a nosotros en Parque Magruder para comida rica, nuevos amigos y mucha diversión. Recuerden: Traigan la identificación, prueba de edad, firma de padre y/o guardián legal e información de contacto en caso de emergencia cuando vengan para registrarse. Estudiantes de Northwestern deben traer también su identificación escolar.

Estamos Contratando

¡Sirvan a su comunidad y trabajen para nuestro gobierno local! Estamos buscando oficiales de policía, un analista de crímenes, un coordinador de televisión y video y un escritor de manera part-time para solicitudes para fondos. Visiten www. hyattsville.org/jobs para más información y para solicitar.

Estacionamiento Público

Ahora se pueden ahorrar tiempo por comprar su permiso mensual de estacionamiento público vía nuestro portal seguro en línea en www.hyattsville.org/publicparking. Los permisos pueden ser comprados por hasta tres meses a la vez. Asegúrense de tener información sobre sus vehículos e información suplementaria antes de entregar una solicitud y RECUERDEN: no se recibirán permisos físicos si los soliciten en línea. Cualquier consulta, manden un correo electrónico a parking@hyattsville.org o llame al (301) 985-5000.

Se Busca Conductores Voluntarios

Se necesita voluntarios para hasta cinco días semanalmente, típicamente entre las horas de 10:30 a.m. y 12:30 p.m., para llevar comida a mayores y a personas con discapacidades. Voluntarios pueden recibir un reembolso para cubrir la distancia de hasta $25 cada mes. Para ayudarnos, llamen al (301) 985-5057 o mande un correo a caistis@hyattsville.org.

Voluntarios Para un Intercambio de Idiomas

Buscamos voluntarios proficientes en inglés que quisieran hacer nuevos amigos y comer comida deliciosa mientras ayuden a unos estudiantes a cocinar y practicar su inglés. La Ciudad de Hyattsville está trabajando con el Programa de Educación para Adultos de Prince George’s Community College para ofrecer clases de cocina para estudiantes que se reúnen los martes y jueves en Hyattsville Mennonite Church, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., desde el 26 de septiembre hasta el 12 de diciembre. ¡Esto incluye oportunidades para aprender cómo preparar comida de los países de los estudiantes! Se necesita voluntarios especialmente los jueves en octubre, pero podemos acomodar sus horarios. Si les interesa, ¡llamen al (301) 5468350 y averigüen cómo ustedes pueden ayudar!

Se Busca Hermanos Mayores

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the National Capital Area, en coordinación con la Ciudad de Hyattsville, está creando una red local de mentoría. Buscamos cualquier voluntario, y tenemos mucha demanda para hombres. Todos los voluntarios participarán en una orientación, entrenamiento y reviso de historia criminal. Si les interesa servir como herman@ mayor con un joven de Hyattsville, por favor contacten a Sydney Cross a (301)-794-9170 ext. 15 o scross@bbbsnca.org para más información.

Noticias de la Ciudad

¡Visite a www.hyattsville.org/notifyme para recibir correos electrónicos y mensajes de texto (en español) sobre las ultimas noticias en la Ciudad de Hyattsville!


Page 8

Hyattsville Life & Times | October 2017

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

EMAIL EVENTS TO THE COMMUNITY CALENDAR AT MARIA@HYATTSVILLELIFE.COM

October 14 Networks and PC’s repaired. No blood sacrifice required.

Vincent Huckle Vincent@computerwitchdoctor.com 202-318-1583 http://www.computerwitchdoctor.com

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GOLDEN MASSAGE

Home Decorating Workshop. Sponsored by the Hyattsville Preservation Association. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Pyramid Atlantic Art Center, 4318 Gallatin St. 301.699.5440. hpahyattsville@hotmail.com Hyattsville Music Fest. Live music and art exhibition. 2 to 8 p.m. Free. Polka Dot Park, 4320 Hamilton St. soulsadc@gmail.com

October 24

Printmaking & Society. “‘Present’ in Print,” sponsored by Pyramid Atlantic Art Center and the Brentwood Arts Exchange. 7 p.m. Free, but preregistration required. Pyramid Atlantic Art Center, 4318 Gallatin St. Pyramidatlanticartcenter.org

November 9

Memory Screening Day. Sponsored by the Hyattsville Aging in

Place in conjunction with the Alzheimer’s Association. 10 a.m. to noon. Preregistration is required. Hyattsville Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin St. 301.887.3101

November 13

Hyattsville Library Independent Film Series. “The Eagle Huntress.” 7 to 9 p.m. University

(240) 582-6610

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Ten Thousand Villages Annual Craft Sale. Nov. 17 from 3 to 8 p.m. and Nov. 18 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hyattsville Mennonite Church, 4217 East-West Highway. hyattsvillemennonite.org

REDEEMER LUTHERAN CHURCH IN HYATTSVILLE Saturday October 21, 2017 at 5:00 pm

The National Christian Choir’s Second Edition will sing to help celebrate the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther tacking the 95 thesis on the church door in Wittenberg (the start of the Reformation). Tickets are not needed. Redeemer Lutheran Church 3799 East West Highway Hyattsville, MD 20782

Please see the following sites for more details: • https://nationalchristianchoir.org/events/ • http://www.redeemer-lutheran.us/ national-christian-choir • https://lutheranreformation.org/

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Hyattsville Life & Times | October 2017

Page 9

PG PLAZA DAY continued from page 3

Through the county’s Department of Social Services, the center was able to provide 75 Hair Cuttery vouchers to guests for haircuts. Hill estimated that in its first year, the center served over 250 individuals, averaging 30 to 40 a day. Phillips, who is the day center’s coordinator, estimated that between 70 to 80 people are “semi-regular” at the center. Daily attendance usually peaks at 2 p.m., when lunch is served. Phillips estimated that half of the people who come to the center are homeless and half are marginalized and on the verge of homelessness. “Brian,” a 72-year-old veteran, said he had been living out of his car for about a year when he started coming to the center. Center staff were eventually able to connect him to the Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing program. He said he moved into his own apartment on Aug. 29 — a date he recalls precisely and proudly. Brian continues to come to the center “to see some of my friends, get a good lunch, [and] stay in touch with people. If I find any resources they can use, I let them know.” He added, “The volunteers are outstanding, simply outstanding.” Larry McKinney said he heard about the center through Community Café. Center staff helped him attain housing through Section 8, and he moved into his

COURTESY OF JOYCE AND HARRY KORAB Dwayne Walton, one of the centerʼs guests, said the center is “a blessing.”

own apartment on May 2; like Brian, he recalls the exact movein date. McKinney said he likes to help out at the center when he can, and he likes the people, the pastor and “sometimes” the food. He was also a recipient of dental services through the UMD dental clinic. Dwayne Walton, who says he is homeless and has been for a long time, said of the center, “It’s a blessing. It is a blessing,” because it provided showers, meals and laundry, and is “someplace you can hang out.” He added, “Because what if it wasn’t here?” In the future, and if they had a

bigger budget, Hill would like the center to have more than one shower and washer and dryer. He would also like to add Saturdays to the schedule. Phillips said this past year’s experience enabled them to figure out what other services to put in place. For example, the center is con-

necting with a team of lawyers to provide pro bono expungement and bankruptcy services, and is partnering with SOME (So Others Might Eat) to provide employment training. Hill said that the center’s clients each need something different: “There’s not this one-size-fits-all.”

Hill described the first year as an “incredible” experience and was especially proud of several success stories, including Brian’s. Hill said that staff also helped an individual with serious eye issues attain eye surgery and glasses. “Steve,” a guest with serious hip problems, kept putting off surgery but, with staff encouragement, had the needed surgery, and is now recovering with the support of family members. Steve was actually one of the first “scouts” from the homeless community to try out the center and its newly renovated shower, and he let Hill know they were on right track. Because of his hip issues, Steve found it difficult and painful to maneuver in tight spaces. After using the spacious easy-access shower, he told Hill, “Oh, I feel like a real human being again.” Hill added, “And I just said, ‘That’s it. That’s it. That’s what we’re about.’” PG Plaza Day Center is located at University Christian Church, 6800 Adelphi Road. For more information about the center, visit congregationsunited.org/ daycenter.

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Page 10

Hyattsville Life & Times | October 2017

ART AROUND TOWN

Top: A mural hand painted by Green Owl Design employee Briana Bailey, as part of the Route 1 revamp led by Green Owl Design and Urban Investment Partners. COURTESY OF GREEN OWL DESIGN Left: Alice Salt, 3, gets her face painted during the 10th Downtown Hyattsville Arts & Ales Festival on Sept. 23. JORDAN FOX Right: Handblown glass pieces from Wunder Around and purses from Bagera are seen at the Arts & Ales Festival on Sept. 23. JULIETTE FRADIN PHOTOGRAPHY

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Hyattsville Life & Times | October 2017

TRANSPORTATION continued from page 1

this fall. Residents can provide input in a number of ways: by phone (301.985.5000), in person at council meetings, or online (speakuphvl.com). As part of this process, Hyattsville residents gathered, along with several city officials and councilmembers, at the Hyattsville Municipal Building Sept. 20 to share their ideas and priorities for making it easier and safer to move around the city. Mauricio Hernandez and Sagar Onta of Toole Design presented components of the study, including safety around school zones, walkability, bikeability, wayfinding and signage, parking, traffic, and connectivity to key destinations and public transit. Throughout the presenta-

Page 11

tion, residents had an opportunity to have their questions answered and their voices heard by the Toole Design consultants and city officials. A few longtime residents recalled previous transportation studies that were carried out in Hyattsville but did not result in action. Hernandez and Onta assured the public that the recommendations from earlier studies would be taken into account for this initiative, along with the new information gathered from multiple sources. City Administrator Tracey Nicholson acknowledged the disappointment in the lack of results and insufficient public participation in previous studies. “That is why it is critically important that we get your input this time,” said Nicholson. Many attendees were hopeful

that their input on this study would result in tangible improvements this time. “Since Candace [Hollingsworth] became mayor, it seems like something will actually get done,” said Linda Hartman, a local who loves the area and expects to age in place. Hartman said she has gained perspective on how transportation issues affect senior citizens through caring for her elderly mother. She wants to ensure that older citizens have an opportunity to share their thoughts, and that age-conscious adaptations are included in the transportation plan. A contingent of bicycle en-

thusiasts, including local members of the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA), attended the meeting. WABA member Steve Padgett would like to see the Rhode Island Trolley Trail completed. The trail would link downtown Hyattsville with nearby communities and provide a safer connection for pedestrians and cyclists to the Anacostia Tributary Trail System. “I bike everywhere, so I feel it’s important to be an advocate for cyclists in this area,” said Padgett. Toole Design Group is also assisting the city with next year’s Capital Bikeshare ex-

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Hyattsville Life & Times | October 2017

ELECTRIC

continued from page 1

then the gas motor kicks in and generates electricity, almost like a hybrid. In a Volt, the gas motor does nothing but generate electricity — it’s running off the battery the whole time — unlike a regular hybrid.” Other police departments have added the Nissan Leaf, which has an estimated range of 100 miles per charge, as part of code-enforcement fleets. Hartnett said, “The problem, in the past, is that most of the electric cars that were available didn’t have a long range. If you are in a small town, then having a limited range is probably OK, but here we needed something with more range.” The Chevrolet Bolt is a game changer, with an estimated range of 238 miles per charge. This is important because one police car may drive 65 miles on a shift. Up until the Chevrolet Bolt came out in 2016, the only car available with this kind of range was a Tesla, which carries an $80,000 price tag. “Most governments are not going to front that kind of money for a police car. A typical police car costs about $24,000 or $25,000 before you put the equipment in it,” said Hartnett. The Chevrolet Bolt starts at $37,000. “Although the Bolt is still on the high side for a police car, it’s a cost-effec-

HOLLY BREVIG The Hyattsville City Police Department has added an electric car, a Chevrolet Bolt, to its fleet.

tive alternative to a Tesla, and when you figure in all the benefits of [low] maintenance and the mileage, I think it’s still a worthwhile investment.” So how did the HCPD get an electric car and motorcycle? “I approached the police department almost three years ago about the concept of getting an electric car, and they said, ‘Well, you know, maybe … if you can find some grant money,’” said Hartnett. The sergeant describes himself as a “big electric vehicle enthusiast,” and owns an electric car himself. He knew the police department had worked with the Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) in the past to acquire

green-friendly, cleaner vehicles. These include Segues, low-speed, electric vehicles used for parking and code enforcement, and seven gas-powered vehicles equipped with anti-idling devices. Hartnett explained anti-idling devices by saying, “[The car has] two spare batteries mounted in the trunk, so … they can turn the motor off, and these extra batteries run all the equipment, so it doesn’t kill the main battery.” The police department also has vehicles equipped with flex-fuel options that “[burn] things besides gas, such as a mixture of corn alcohol and gas, which burns cleaner and has less carbon emissions when you drive it,” stated Hartnett. The MEA, which is not af-

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filiated with police departments, routinely has grants available for transportation projects. The HCPD’s Chevrolet Bolt was purchased through an MEA petroleum reduction project, Hartnett said. Hartnett explained that he wrote the grant, requesting two electric vehicles, a motorcycle, and four outdoor 240-volt, Level 2 charging stations. The police department was granted one electric vehicle (the Bolt), an electric motorcycle (the Zero Electric), and two outdoor charging stations. Eighty percent of the vehicle costs were covered by the grant. “We still had to equip the car; that wasn’t included. The bike, on the other hand, came from the manufacturer with the lights and [a] siren — everything already on it.” He also explained

that there is a federal tax credit for purchasing an electric car, and that residents of Maryland who purchase an electric car can apply for a rebate of up to $10,000. “It’s really an experiment,” said Hartnett. “I mean, we’re looking to see how practical it [the electric car] would be in everyday police work.” The Chevrolet Bolt is not as big as a regular police car, which is an important consideration if an officer needs to carry equipment or passengers, but “its quietness assists on the job,” says Harnett. “Our goal for the motorcycle is to use it primarily on bike paths and pedestrian paths to watch for robberies in the night time. It’s perfect. It’s completely quiet, and you can patrol where a [gas-powered] car couldn’t patrol.” Police Chief Doug Holland commented, “I commend Sgt. Hartnett for his initiative to seek out and successfully complete the grant process to bring this new technology into the daily operations of the police department.” Hartnett is looking forward to demonstrating the cost savings of an electric vehicle compared to a gas-powered vehicle. “Because the electric car doesn’t have a transmission, it’ll require a lot less maintenance than a gas-powered car.” He further noted, “The nice thing about electricity is it’s home grown, and there’s a lot of ways to get it aside from just burning coal,” such as from solar panels and wind and water turbines.


Hyattsville Life & Times | October 2017

Page 13

MissFloribunda

Puzzled on Powhatan Street Dear Puzzled, Let’s apply a little etymology to our botany. I turned to my old professor, Dr. Wordsworth Worterbuch, for help. He explained that the “witch” in witch-hazel comes from the Middle English “wiche,” evolved from Old English “wice,” and means “flexible.” Its flexible twigs were used as divining rods, so it’s not hard to see how “wiche” became “witch.” To reinforce this idea, the bark has medicinal qualities that have been effectively employed by folk healers — who sometimes have practiced darker arts. Its modern use is mostly as an astringent. The “hazel” comes from “haesel,” which referred to any tree in what was long ago considered part of the pine family. Witch hazel is not a pine, nor is it related to the hazel tree (corylus). I surmise from the autumn-blooming time that your shrub is our own native Hamamelis virginiana, whose lateseason berries are a boon to birds. Witch hazel is entirely benevolent. Your spiderwort is not the only plant to sound distasteful because the word “wort” gets confused with “wart.” Dr. Worterbuch would like for you to know that “wort” means “plant” in Middle English, derived from the Old English “wyrt” or herb. I can tell you that “spider” describes the plant’s sprawling habit rather than the flowers themselves. Once again, I find myself having to defend spiders — which rarely bite people and certainly don’t cause warts — but in any case, you can get around the negative associations the name has for you by calling it by another of its names. Although I’m pretty sure you wouldn’t want to choose it, another of its names is “cow slobber.” Then there’s “widow’s tears,” which may be lugubrious, but at least it’s poetic. The name “trinity

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Dear Miss Floribunda, My witch hazel is blooming, and I love the smell of its yellow flowers, which look like curls to me. While I admit the little tree does look kind of scraggly, like an old hag, or maybe even an old scag with bed head, I don’t know why it’s called a “witch.” It doesn’t seem fair, although I admit it’s fun to have something with a name like that in my garden at Halloween. I have some spider wart [sic] too, and that has pretty purple flowers. They don’t look like spiders with warts or warts from a spider bite. How do nice plants get bad names?

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flower” alludes to the three luminous petals that form the flower’s corolla. Or you could call it by its Latin name, tradescantia. Your spider wort is Tradescantia virginiana, a beneficial native plant that harbors many pollinators. By the way, there are many, many other plants with “wort” in their names, and I am particularly glad that the charming little forget-me-not (myosotis) is rarely called “scorpionwort” any more. Harry Potter fans might be interested to know that Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry was consciously named by J.K. Rowling after the plant known as “hogwort,” or croton. The kind of croton that grows in England produces a substance used in making blue dyes, and was among the ingredients in the paints that illuminated medieval manuscripts. The native American variety is called Croton alabamensis, and is an easy-to-grow ornamental shrub, with yellow flower clusters and bright orange leaves in autumn. It should not be confused with the toxic hogweed (heracleum) that causes blisters when touched. On the other hand, some plants get the names they deserve. Skunk cabbage (Lysichiton americanus) really does smell like an annoyed skunk. Very elegant with its furled yellow flower, it is related to the deliciously scented arum lily. (As we all know, family members can differ markedly in their characteristics and personalities.) Although skunk cabbage is a native plant, most would agree that it would be taking local pride too far to include it in any garden. Deadly nightshade (Atropa belladonna) is indeed deadly, and it’s commonly called belladonna (“beautiful lady”) because women in the past dared to use tiny doses of its oil to enlarge their pupils for what was assumed to be seductive effect. As with the use of arsenic

to blanch the skin, fashion can be fatal. In our hemisphere, we have toxic belladonna relatives. One is jimson weed (aka devil’s snare aka locoweed) which is a hallucinogenic that has tempted curious teenagers. Another is henbane, and here the word “bane” in the plant’s name is to be taken very seriously. Bane comes from “bana,” which in Middle English means “poison.” Henbane, dogbane, wolfsbane — any kind of bane kills the animal cited in the name and anyone else who dares eat them. In miniscule quantities, they are effectively used in medicine, but they should not be in the garden — not even at Halloween. The beautiful wolfsbane (aconitum), with its splendid spikes of blue-purple flowers, has been used by poisoners for centuries. The most notorious was Dr. Henry George Lanson, who was hanged in 1882 when discovered to have used aconite to poison his wife’s rich brother in order to finance his morphine habit. Dr. Worterbuch informs me that the word “weed” refers to the old English “weod,” which originally meant only “grass.” In the 17th century it referred to tobacco, and perhaps from that practice on to marijuana. He doesn’t know exactly when the word took on the meaning of an unwelcome plant. Certainly neither the butterfly-attracting milkweed nor the beautiful magenta-flowered ironweed are considered weeds in the pejorative sense. Other languages, such as Spanish and French, refer to what we call weeds simply as “bad grass.” For more gardening lore, please come to the next meeting of the Hyattsville Horticultural Society on Saturday, Oct. 21, from 10 a.m. to noon at the home of Joe Buriel and Dave Roeder on 3909 Longfellow Street. There will be a plant exchange after the meeting.

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Hyattsville Life & Times | October 2017

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