INSIDE VOTE! Learn about the 21 candidates for mayor and council in our 2021 CITY ELECTION GUIDE. PP. 13 -20 VOL. 18 NO. 4
HYATTSVILLE’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
The evolution and ecology of police cruisers
BACK TO SCHOOL
APRIL 2021
By Paul Ruffins Police cars represent a fascinating balance between the conflicting demands of human-factors engineering, public policy and municipal finance. A short, 2.5 mile drive south from the University of Maryland Police Department (UMPD) to the Hyattsville City Police Department (HCPD) allows us to observe their evolution. The UMPD has two parking lots. One entire lot is devoted SEE CROWN VIC ON 26
Bookstore offers lens into Pan-African culture By Maristela Romero Nestled at the corner of Farragut Street and Baltimore Avenue is a bookstore called Frontline Trading Post, which opened its doors to customers last November. The storefront displays a modest array of books and artifacts alongside a small logo bearing the shop’s name and an ankh, the ancient Egyptian symbol of life, resting in the middle of an open book with the words “Ready for Liberation” scrawled across the pages. This, the bookstore’s motto, carried over from its ChicagoSEE BOOKSTORE ON 24
Students at Hyattsville Elementary School went back for a first day of in-person school on April 8. Hyattsville middle schoolers will go back April 15. JULIA NIKHINSON
Middle school muddle New school coming, but where will students go during rebuild?
By Kit Slack On April 15, students return to the Hyattsville Middle School building for the first time in over a year to participate in hybrid learning. They will walk under 100-year-old oak trees, pass by an entryway mural painted in 2018, and head into their rectangular brick school, which dates from the 1970s. About a third of students walk to school, and the rest come in by bus from communities including Mount Rainier, Brentwood, College Park and University Park. Where Hyattsville Middle School students will attend
school in the fall of 2021 is still uncertain as of press time, according to several sources. Some suggest that students may be split between Thomas E. Stone Elementary in Mount Rainier and the Robert Goddard Montessori campus in Seabrook. Whatever the arrangement, it will be temporary. In the fall of 2023, the school district plans to open a brand new school building on the same site. The building will relieve overcrowding in area elementary and middle schools by accepting more sixth graders and providing space for enrollment to increase from SEE MUDDLE ON 29
CENTER SECTION: The April 13, 2021 Issue of The Hyattsville Reporter — in Español too! HYATTSVILLE MD PERMIT NO. 1383
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Hyatts KIDS Page 2
LOCAL FAMILIES SUPPORT TODAY’S HAIR AFTER FIRE
Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
Created by contributors in grades K-8, the HyattsKIDS Life & Times features local news, columns, and comics from our city’s youngest journalists. Our editors are Evan LeFevre and Claudia Romero Garvey. To participate, contact adult adviser Mary Frances Jiménez: mf_jimenez@yahoo.com. We also invite readers’ questions for an upcoming “Ask a HyattsKID” column.
HOLIDAY ADVICE BY EVAN LEFEVRE
By Talika Gorski and Elliott Kramer Today’s Hair, a family business based in College Park, has been operating for 26 years. You probably know someone who has had their hair cut by Pola Kry or her husband Sokha at Today’s Hair. Many HyattsKIDS reporters have been going since they were small. Our favorite part is the free lollipop at the end — and the great haircut, of course. Since the pandemic started, Today’s Hair has been struggling. Pola says, “The pandemic affected me bigtime. It is very hard because all my regular clients do not come out to get their hair cut.” Then, there was another challenge. At the beginning of February, a business next to the salon caught fire, and it spread to the roof. The salon had to close due to water and smoke damage. As a result, Pola started doing mobile haircuts. To make an appointment, you call or text Pola, decide on a date and she comes to your yard and cuts your hair. However, this arrangement is difficult. Group haircuts, where several haircuts are scheduled throughout the day in the same place, are better for Pola because she doesn’t have to travel so much. In the Hyattsville area, Mary
Warneka planned a group cut fundraiser to support Pola and her family. Although they were expecting rain, the weather was good. They had a funny sign for the event. There were three stations for haircutting, and they had 40 people come to get haircuts. Each station had chairs, mirrors, tables for their equipment, and tarps on the ground to catch the hair. Grayson Johnson, age 10, helped his mom set up tables and chairs. He chatted and hung out with younger children. He also got a haircut and helped donate funds to repair Today’s Hair. While Pola misses her salon, she likes being outside, and she is grateful that the local
To learn more about the Hyattsville Volunteer Fire Department (HVFD), HyattsKIDS
Associate Editors Sophie Gorman Oriani sophie@hyattsvillelife.com
Business Manager Catie Currie catie@hyattsvillelife.com
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Hyattsville Life & Times is published monthly by Streetcar Suburbs Publishing 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 provided.
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community has supported her, both through a GoFundMe page and by organizing the group haircuts. She hopes that in the summer, her salon will be open again. Pola says, “I hope the community keeps supporting us because I love to work with children and watch them grow up. That’s the most important thing.” We can’t wait to go back and have our lollipops!
Layout & Design Editor Ashley Perks Copy Editor Nancy Welch Writers & Contributors Victoria Boucher, Stuart Eisenberg, Juliette Fradin, Lauren Flynn Kelly, Julia Nikhinson, Maristela Romero, Paul Ruffins, Emily Strab
Board of Directors Joseph Gigliotti — President and General Counsel Chris Currie — Vice President Stephanie Stullich — Treasurer Emily Strab — Secretary Rosanna Landis Weaver, Gretchen Brodtman, T. Carter Ross, Kit Slack and Mark Goodson — 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.
reached out to Ryan Pidgeon, our fire chief. Reporter Delia Silva started by asking about the schooling of a firefighter. Fire Chief Pidgeon said firefighters start with basic training of 135 hours: Classes are two nights a week for three hours and then all day Saturday. For EMT basics, they have to train for another 165 hours. Pidgeon notes that “Those are just the basic requirements, and all of our members are constantly taking classes to better service the public.” At the HVFD, six firefighters work every shift: Two will be in the ambulance, and the other four will staff the fire apparatus (engine, ladder truck, rescue squad). Fire Chief Pidgeon said that putting out a fire is a physically demanding job no matter the size of the fire. The firehouse will soon be rebuilt so the HVFD has better facilities. During construction, they will move temporarily to the old Red Cross building. Every spring, HVFD hosts an open house for kids and their families to learn about fire safety and visit the firehouse. Chief Pidgeon wants kids to know they should never play with lighters or matches. They can help make sure their homes have working smoke alarms. Kids should make a fire escape plan with their families, and if there is a fire, never ever go back inside the house for anything.
A SECOND SPRING OF CHANGED TRADITIONS By Nora Marx and Bella Romero Every family has spring traditions, but because of the ongoing pandemic, some of the things we would regularly do remain impossible. Like many others, reporter Bella Romero and her family usually go to see the cherry blossoms in D.C., at the Tidal Basin. But last year the area was blocked off, and will most likely be the same this year. However, the National Cherry Blossom Festival provided a mix of personal and virtual events this year, so we can still celebrate the blossoming trees. Agnes Murphy, a third grader at Saint Jerome Academy, plants a garden every year — something the virus cannot easily disrupt. “I try to plant a couple things,” she said to HyattsKIDS reporters. Last year, she planted zinnias, cucumbers, and tomatoes. She will keep her garden this year. The Great Magruder Park Egg Hunt, a Hyattsville activity that happens around Easter, was canceled again this year. Despite this, families can still create their own egg hunts around the house. Traditionally, north of Jefferson Street, mysterious bunny tracks have appeared on Easter, left by the Easter Bunny, who presumably stepped in flour. Mr. Bunny was not available for comment.
Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
Page 3
FROM THE BOARD
HL&T is back online — along with College Park’s Here & Now By Gretchen Brodtman
A
free press is a crucial part of a thriving democracy. Streetcar Suburbs Publishing, Inc. is a nonprofit corporation that currently publishes both the Hyattsville Life & Times (HL&T) and the College Park Here & Now (CPHN). I serve on its board because I believe we need to be of service in our communities. As the country tries to embrace civility, we need to continue to be informed at the local level. Increasing voter turnout wasn’t the primary intention in starting the HL&T in 2004, but it has been a positive outcome. So when the City of College Park wanted to increase civic engagement, they approached then-Managing Editor Maria James to see if the Hyattsville
Community Newspapers, Inc. was interested in helping them start a new paper for its residents. The board met a number of times and hashed out the details of what a new edition would look like. We were full of hope that additional circulation would also bring increased advertising opportunities. We were fortunate to hire Mark Goodson, who had previously been a reporter and an associate editor for the HL&T, as CPHN’s managing editor. And we hired Nancy Welch, who also volunteers as copy editor for the HL&T, as its associate editor. The board then arrived at a new name — Streetcar Suburbs Publishing, in commemoration of the streetcars that used to travel Rhode Island Avenue — for the umbrella organization
that would oversee both newspapers. No one else can cover our communities like our own homegrown independent papers. And right now, we need your support. We’d welcome your ideas, your feedback, your volunteer reporting, and, of course, your financial support. Since its launch last May, the CPHN has been an anomaly, a print newspaper launched dur-
ing the pandemic and at the onset of a county lockdown — at a time when many local papers were going out of business. CPHN was launched without a website, and HL&T’s website went down in February, just as the pandemic was gearing up. As hope from vaccines emerges, and as shutdowns ease, we’re launching a website to link both communities together online.
Streetcar is proud to present StreetcarSuburbs.News, as we follow the life and times of both Hyattsville and College Park here … and now. Gretchen Brodtman is a board member of Streetcar Suburbs Publishing, Inc.
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Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
Big changes in store for West Hyattsville By Emily Strab Those who frequent Hamilton Street and Ager and Queens Chapel roads have likely gotten used to the constant construction but may be unaware of some of the changes coming to the area. Construction on Queens Chapel and Ager roads, ongoing since 2019, closed Ager Road for much of the last year to allow for infrastructure improvement and sidewalk installation. The construction is slated to last until 2022, so those orange cones are not going anywhere anytime soon.
RIVERFRONT AT WEST HYATTSVILLE BUILDS TOWN HOUSES Gilbane Development agreed to make those improvements as part of the Riverfront at West Hyattsville Metro project. Gilbane Development has been working since
2017 on the project, cutting down trees and rebuilding trails along the Northwest Branch River, creating a 4-acre park that incorporates compensatory flood water storage and grading the 25-acre parcel next to the Metro station to raise the future construction out of the 100-year flood plain. Stanley Martin Home Builders began work this year on constructing the first 54 town houses on the site, which will be closest to Ager Road. It will take several years to complete the build-out with multifamily housing and ground floor retail.
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structing a 44,362-square-foot office building, with an attached three-story garage, that will include offices, a laboratory, a pharmacy and a public coffee shop. Construction is slated to start early this year. Kaiser plans to move from their current location at University Town Center to the office building when it opens, which is slated for August 2023. In an October 2020 interview, Gilbane Development’s Vice President Robert Gilbane Jr. said that Kaiser Permanente was committing to become an “outward facing” part of the community, with plans to enrich the neighborhood by hosting opportunities like a regular farmers market.
KFC CLOSED The KFC at the corner of Hamilton Street and Ager Road has closed. There are currently no definitive plans for its future use. On the HOPE (Hyattsville Organization for a Positive Environment) email group, there were discussions of what residents wanted to see there; suggestions ran the gamut from local eateries, like a Greek diner, to a chain restaurant like Panera Bread, but as Councilmember Edouard Haba (Ward 4) noted, whatever replaces the KFC will have to conform to the West Hyattsville Transit District Development Plan in place for the area. In short, many prospective businesses that have looked into the
property have been dissuaded or slowed down because the existing drive-thru is not permissible or able to be grandfathered in, under the current plan.
LIQUOR STORE MOVING Those who frequent the Queens Chapel Town Center have probably noticed the slowly changing landscape. The Hamilton Street Aldi’s facelift is finished, and, next door, the renovation of the former Pizza Hut, which will become a liquor store, has begun. Last year, the city council approved Lee’s Liquors’ license to move into the building, with several caveats, the first of which is that it be renamed to Hyattsville Fine Wine and Spirits. Currently, however, the work permits still reflect the name from the original proposal, Liquor Hut.
NEW DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR QUEENS CHAPEL The West Hyattsville-Queens Chapel Sector Plan is a new transit district development plan initiated by the county planning board on Sept. 17, 2020. The plan, which will replace an equivalent 2006 one, covers West Hyattsville and the Queens Chapel corridor from Queens Chapel Town Center to Queens Chillum Shopping Center. The county planning department is gathering community input to form a plan that would
guide development along Queen’s Chapel Road for the next 15 to 20 years, in keeping with the county’s new zoning ordinance and 2014 countywide general plan. The department will consider input about the kinds of development, such as affordable housing, land use ideas (within current zoning) and the types of businesses (but not specific businesses) citizens would like to see. The planning department held a virtual open house on Jan. 13 and a virtual visioning workshop on March 13. In general, people wanted development that was walkable and bikeable, diverse businesses that did not promote loitering or disorderly behavior, greater beautification of and access to public space, and the creation of a pedestrian-only, Main Street-like space along Hamilton Street. Although the online survey ended early this month, there is still time for input through 2021, using the twice-monthly office hours offered through the planning department’s website. With a new development plan in place by 2023, and with the current construction progress underway, it is likely that the West Hyattsville landscape will look vastly different in five to 15 years than it does now. The vision of the future includes a diverse, vibrant area bustling with pedestrians — and, hopefully, fewer orange cones.
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NEWS BRIEFS CITY COUNCIL TAKES A FIRST LOOK AT BUDGET On March 24, City Treasurer Ron Brooks and City Administrator Tracy Douglas proposed a $33.9 million budget for the 2022 fiscal year, which begins on July 1, 2022. This includes general expenses of $23.3 million. These numbers are similar to those approved for the 2021 fiscal year. In addition to general expenses for salaries and programming, the total budget would also include $9.3 million for capital improvements, such as police equipment, new roads and building renovations, and $1.4 million for special revenue fund expenses, which are funds that the city must use in a specific way, like grant money and COVID-19 relief. The budget will come before the city council three times before it is approved, most likely in May. Each department provided the city council with a budget report. The largest departments are police and public safety ($9.4 million), public works ($5.2 million) and general government ($3.9 million). Most city departments presented budgets with little increase over the prior year’s budget. The hiring freeze put in place last year has been lifted, however, so some departments have increased budgets due to new hires. Introducing the first draft of the budget, Douglas noted that the city was anticipating a revenue shortfall of $2.6 million for FY 2021 as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Douglas said she is hopeful that Hyattsville could take advantage of funds from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 to make up for some of CPA with 15+year experience. Personal and Business tax preparation and problem resolutions. Bookkeeping and Payroll. Management and financial consulting. Business start-up help.
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the shortfall, although the details of what may be available to the city are still unclear. Douglas said this year’s budget assumes a recovery year, with suspended programming being reintroduced, while COVID-19-related expenditures continue. Brooks noted that the city is within the recommended limits for cash reserves, with $16 million in reserve on a budgetary basis and $13 million on a cash basis. “We’re holding our own even with the COVID crisis,” he said. Brooks stressed the need to stay vigilant, mentioning a drop in some sources of revenue.
CITY CONSIDERS NEW AFFORDABLE HOUSING SOLUTION The Hyattsville City Council is considering a proposal to approve the purchase of the Hamilton Manor apartments on Lancer Drive by a nonprofit affordable-housing developer. This purchase would be the first to take place through the Prince George’s County Right of First Refusal Program, which gives the county the right to purchase any multifamily rental property with more than 20 units that comes up for sale, or to assign their right to buy it to an ap-
proved third-party developer. At the April 5 city council meeting, John Maneval from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development spoke about the Right of First Refusal Program, noting that the county has never exercised its right of first refusal before. In this case, the Prince George’s County Department of Housing and Community Development has chosen a third-party developer, Nation-
al Housing Trust Communities, as the developer for Hamilton Manor. National Housing Trust, which owns over 35 affordable housing complexes nationwide, is currently in negotiations with the owner of Hamilton Manor, and must close by mid-August, within 180 days from the date the county was first notified that the property was for sale. Hamilton Manor is a 245-unit apartment complex; approximately half are one-bedroom
units and the other half twobedroom units. It is located in West Hyattsville on Lancer Drive. Apartments are currently listed for rent in the complex at $1,337 to $2,036 per month. Per county regulations, the City of Hyattsville is required to approve the purchase in writing. National Housing Trust Communities is expected to present at the April 19 meeting, and the council will vote on the purchase on May 3.
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Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
THEN & NOW
A few mayors from then By Stuart Eisenberg
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his column, “Then & Now,” provides periodic essays by members of the Hyattsville Preservation Association, focused on matters of personal and local historic interest. We have recently been examining the history and role of Hyattsville’s mayors, glancing along the way at some of the biographical details of the people who have held this office. But as we head into our municipal elections, what I have always called the silly season, what of our more recent history? I was able to ask three of the four of the living former mayors about their experiences as the chief executive officer of this city. Bob Armentrout served from 1999 to 2003. Armentrout and his council colleagues commenced and oversaw one of the largest infrastructure investment pushes in the city’s history, comprehensively repaving
On Jan. 19, former Mayor Candace B. Hollingsworth received a key to the city made by artist Sarah Matthews. COURTESY OF THE CITY OF HYATTSVILLE
the city and coordinating upgrades of the antiquated water, sewer and gas pipes with the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission and Washington Gas ahead of that repaving. Armentrout recalled that dealing with the budget was the most difficult task he faced as mayor. He shared his hard-earned wisdom this way in an email: “Everybody wants progress!!! Unfortunately, taxes have to be raised to give the public the de-
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sired increase in services.” Bill Gardiner (2003-11) served a two-term sentence. Like Armentrout, his sense of what was most challenging revolved around conflicting desires. Gardiner found that having such a “large city council makes it harder to meet everyone’s concerns and stay focused on advancing city policies.” With “many, many competing demands to balance,” for him, negotiation became a much more important tool with which to wield the city’s limited authority. Gardiner’s terms were infused with a growing sense of possibility for the city, as revitalization played an ever more important role in council policy making. New parks, new technologies and new city boundaries emerged in this era through revitalization and negotiation efforts. Residents’ expectations rose as well. Of course, the personal is political too. Candace Hollingsworth (2015-21) mused that elected officials want to be wellliked by all. “I had to quickly rid myself of that notion,” she noted. “The most difficult thing … is knowing that the path to
doing your job well is lined with rejection and a constant shuffling of supporters and adversaries.” Hollingsworth’s administration focused resources on expanding Hyattsville’s assets and services to make it a more equitable and just community, while confronting issues that played as controversial on the national stage. And so through her recent resignation, departing to co-found Our Black Party, she made that inevitable jump from local service to addressing those national issues more directly. And this is certainly not the first time that a Hyattsville mayor used their office to climb upon a larger national issue and confront something close to home. Harry W. Shepherd, Hyattsville’s seventh mayor (1912-14), was skewered in the national press for the pomp and planned ceremonial welcome and presentation of a golden key to the city to Alice Paul, one of the leaders of the suffragette caravan upon Washington, in the summer of 1913. So it struck me as both ironic and sweetly fitting for the historic mayoral narrative that Hollingsworth’s service was recognized by the presentation of a ceremonial key to the city — this one fashioned by Hyattsville artist Sarah Matthews — in a Jan. 19 valedictory event in her honor. Though a mayor may feel stuck at times in irresolvable situations, the thing Armentrout best liked about being mayor was the solace and joy he found immersing himself amongst the diverse people of Hyattsville he represented and met on his journey as mayor: “a real educa-
tion, weekly.” Gardiner saw the common challenges city leaders faced as an opportunity to work with a group, most of them committed volunteers, “who believed in the city’s future.” His favorite part of being mayor was to work with his colleagues and staff to figure out how to continue making the city a great place to live. Hollingsworth discovered that the sense of hope and latent possibility of taking an idea and transforming it into “something people can experience, be it a policy, program or structure,“ formed the essence of an adventure for her. That made serving as mayor something of a “gift” and “pretty amazing” to her. As far as how their service affected their lives, both Armentrout and Gardiner remarked upon how eye-opening the job was, and how aware they became of just “how many people contribute to the well-being of our community.” “A REAL EXPERIENCE,” Armentrout succinctly wrote. But Hollingsworth’s revelations, being fresher in her memory, revolved around the need for a mayor to tend not just to their community’s well-being, but to their own as well. The needs of the community and the demands of the work can easily eclipse one’s own ability to preserve good mental health and family balance. The desire to be a servant leader tends to run strong in those who seek the less rewarded, but still glorious, road of mayor to the City of Hyattsville. “Then & Now” gives a historical perspective on the City of Hyattsville. For more information, please visit preservehyattsville.org.
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Page 7
THIS IS A CAMPAIGN TO:
BUILD HVL BETTER! This is a campaign for Hyattsville, from a candidate who has worked for Hyattsville since 2013. 8yrs on the City Council and 8yrs supporting a vision and direction for the City, developed by the City. For every year I’ve been on City Council, there is an accounting of the introduction and passage of legislative work on behalf of the residents of the City of Hyattsville, all of Hyattsville. Additionally, I have always used my phone to both call directly or answer and listen to resident or fellow council member concerns, work through solutions, and connect them with resources that can provide greater assistance where I am unable to provide a direct solution. Let’s keep building better, there is so much more to accomplish as a City. I spoke with my team early on this race to instruct all members that we are not running a negative campaign and we are not responding to negativity either. I am running on my record of accomplishments and my vision for the future of Hyattsville. We are making the case to voters that we, as a City can continue to build better and move for in a positive manor. That’s why I have taken the time to knock on doors, talk to residents, listen to their concerns, and develop a broad and inclusive platform for better. Again, let’s keep building better, there is so much more to accomplish as a City.
TEXT VOTESOLOMON TO (844) 976-483 FOR VOTING INSTRUCTIONS OR MORE INFO
VOTE MAY 11TH JOSEPH SOLOMON
FOR MAYOR
SOLOMONFORALL Introducing Legislative Priority: Pedestrian Safety For Ager Road Crossing Introducing: Legislative Priority Nicholson Street & Queens Chapel Rd. Traffic Light Moving Hyattsville Police Department to Hamilton Street 5K personal contribution to support the development of a Hyattsville Veterans Memorial
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PAID FOR BY JOSEPH SOLOMON THIS IS A SELF-FUNDED CAMPAIGN | LET'S TALK 240-487-9179
Page 8
Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
THIS IS A CAMPAIGN FOR:
FAMILIES & COMMUNITYBUILDING We are a community where, despite our diversity, we support each other as we grow together. I understand the impact to families struggling to balance work and childcare from home. I understand the immense learning curve for seniors struggling to use mobiles apps and devices to try, many for the first time, to order groceries or schedule a vaccine appointment, or even facetime with family members. I also understand the burden rent, mortgage, and property taxes during this time of record unemployment. Local government has a role to play to play in supporting our community, and I stand committed to ensuring that no resident in the City of Hyattsville is left behind in our recovery. A good education in quality facilities remains paramount in the development of children thereby our community. Despite the many pressing issues to address as a result of COVID-19, I will continue to press for school construction, and ensure that our students are safe and well supported by our City. For more information on my plan for families and building a strong community beyond COVID-19, please visit my website at www.SolomonForHyattsville.com.
TEXT VOTESOLOMON TO (844) 976-483 FOR MORE INFO!
VOTE MAY 11TH JOSEPH SOLOMON
FOR MAYOR
SOLOMONFORALL Adding Senior Services Coordinator To Budget Establishing our Senior Meals on Wheels Program Adding A Project Manager for Department of Public Works Supporting the Trolley Trail and Pedestrian Safety Passing Affordable Housing Strategy development funding Establishing Our City’s Rainy Day Fund Creating our Health Wellness and Recreation Committee Creating our Police and Public Safety Citizens’ Advisory Committee
WORKING FOR YOU
SINCE 2013
PAID FOR BY JOSEPH SOLOMON THIS IS A SELF-FUNDED CAMPAIGN | LET'S TALK 240-487-9179
Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
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THIS IS A CAMPAIGN FOR:
THE ENVIRONMENT. TEXT VOTESOLOMON to (844) 976-483 FOR MORE INFO!
As a Council member, I worked with CHISPA Maryland of the League of Conservation Voters to request the State of Maryland use the Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust to replace our diesel-powered school buses with their clean energy, zero-emission counterparts. Clean energy school buses lower air pollution and protect our children. Our children not only deserve quality education and facilities, but they have the right to receive that education in buildings that respect the environment with transportation services that do not harm their health and development. 100-year flood events continue to become regular occurrences. I will work with our County, State, and Federal representatives to ensure that we get the resources necessary to protect Hyattsville residents and provide effective well-engineered storm water management solutions. Decreasing dependence on fossils also means continuing to build a well-connected City for our biking and pedestrian community and ensuring that our plant ecosystems are protected. I intend to not only preserve but to expand and beautify our parks and greenspaces. As a Council member I co-introduced and worked to pass the City’s ban on pesticides in City owned property landcare. As President of the Municipal Association I worked closely with biking and pedestrian groups to support the expansion, maintenance and safety of the trail system. Read more about my plans to build a more sustainable, environmentally friendly City at www.SolomonForHyattsville.com.
VOTE MAY 11TH JOSEPH SOLOMON
FOR MAYOR
SOLOMONFORALL Voting against the construction of Townhomes in the floodplain Organizing to move forward on traffic calming and sidewalks on 37th Place Supporting the West Hyattsville Lighting Project Supporting the West Hyattsville and UHills Road Improvement Projects Renaming our largest City Park Bringing a COVID-19 Testing & Vaccination Site to our City Introduced and Passed City’s Body Worn Camera Mandate Introduced and Passed Resolution Against Domestic Terrorism and Request for State-wide Taskforce
WORKING FOR YOU
SINCE 2013
PAID FOR BY JOSEPH SOLOMON THIS IS A SELF-FUNDED CAMPAIGN | LET'S TALK! 240-487-9179
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Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
THIS IS A CAMPAIGN FOR:
FAITH On faith, shortly after overcoming a devastating experience with the criminal justice system I moved into the City of Hyattsville and ran for City Council. After my traumatic experience, while contemplating my frustration with a criminal justice system that offers no safeguards for African-American males, even in the face of clear and overwhelming evidence of innocence, I found myself in a moment of prayer and reflection, transfixed by an article in the local paper, “The Wild West, Who Will Run?”. Viewing this headline as an invitation to be the catalyst for the change I sought, I ran, and I won. As a member of the Council my closest relationships have been with those who place their hand on the bible and take an oath to God to serve the public. Furthermore it is on the votes of those members that my most significant policies have passed. That is because despite the philosophical differences amongst our political backgrounds, we have stood together in the understanding that municipal governance is more than a battle of progressive and conservative ideology, but rather a call to the moralists across the political spectrum saying “let’s do what was right.” While I respect the separation between church and state, I reject completely the notion that the church can not be a partner in assisting our City. For this reason, I have supported the coalition of Hyattsville churches who provide services to assist our officers, our homeless, our food insecure, and provide spiritual guidance, support and counsel to many believers in our community. Not only have reached out to our churches support events, such the vigil for life at University Town center in the wake of yet another rash of police shootings, but I have also ensure that our City is supporting our churches with grant funding to help offset COVID-19 expenditures on Hyattsville residents and services. As Mayor I will continue to build relationships with our faith-based community and institutions. It is my belief that to love God is to love God’s people and God’s earth, and to serve God is to serve God’s people and respect the earth given to us. It is my desire and my prayer, that in my time as both a potential Mayor and current Council member, that your children be blessed, which is why I support better schools. I pray that your families be blessed, which is why I have worked and will continue to work to respond to COVID-19 with both economic and health policies and initiatives. And finally I pray that our environment be protected and reflect God’s beautiful creation and gift unto mankind, which is why as Mayor I will pursue environmentally sustainable schools and the development of a plan toward a zero net energy carbon neutral Hyattsville.
TEXT VOTESOLOMON to (844) 976-483 FOR MORE INFO!
VOTE MAY 11TH JOSEPH SOLOMON
FOR MAYOR SOLOMONFORALL
This is Prince George’s County Council AtLarge Member, Mel Franklin and i’m writing to encourage your support for Joseph A. Solomon as the next Mayor of the City of Hyattsville. Joseph has been a true leader for small and minority owned businesses. When Joseph served as President of the Municipal Association we worked to together pass a resolution giving guidance to all 27 cities and towns across Prince George’s County to ensure that small, womenowned, minority-owned, and veteran-owned businesses get their fair share of contracting opportunities. Additionally, this is the candidate who brought the only permanent COVID-19 Testing and Vaccination to a municipality right in the center of Hyattsville!
WORKING FOR YOU
SINCE 2013
PAID FOR BY JOSEPH SOLOMON THIS IS A SELF-FUNDED CAMPAIGN | LET'S TALK! 240-487-9179
Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
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ESTA ES UNA CAMPAÑA PARA:
EL DESARROLLO DE LA COMUNIDAD Y FAMILIAS
¡ENVÍE UN MENSAJE DE TEXTO A VOTESOLOMON AL (844) 976-483 PARA OBTENER MÁS INFORMACIÓN!
Somos una comunidad en la que, a pesar de nuestra diversidad, nos apoyamos mutuamente a medida que crecemos juntos. Entiendo el impacto en las familias que luchan por balancear el trabajo y el cuidado de los niños desde casa. Entiendo la inmensa curva de aprendizaje para las personas de la tercera edad que luchan por usar aplicaciones móviles para probar, muchos por primera vez, hacer pedidos de alimentos o programar una cita para vacunas, o incluso hacer llamadas cara-a-cara con miembros de la familia. También entiendo la carga de la renta, la hipoteca y los impuestos de la propiedad durante este período con una alta taza de desempleo. El gobierno local tiene un papel que desempeñar en apoyar a nuestra comunidad y me comprometo a garantizar que ningún residente de la ciudad de Hyattsville se quede atrás en nuestra recuperación. Una buena educación en instalaciones de calidad sigue siendo primordial en el desarrollo de los niños y nuestra comunidad. A pesar de los muchos problemas urgentes que abordar como resultado de la pandemia del COVID-19, continuaré presionando para la construcción de escuelas y asegurarme de que nuestros estudiantes estén seguros y bien apoyados por nuestra Ciudad. Para obtener más información sobre mi plan para familias y la construcción de una comunidad sólida más allá de COVID-19, visite mi sitio web en www.SolomonForHyattsville.com
VOTA 11 DE MAYO JOSEPH SOLOMON
PARA ALCALDE SOLOMONFORALL
Escribí una carta al congreso de los Estados Unidos para pedirle que mantengan los estatus de DACA y TPS, y lo hice con el apoyo de la mayoría de la asociación municipal del condado cuando era el presidente de la asociación. Trabaje en equipo para establecer un lugar aquí en Hyattsville para que se hagan la prueba de COVID-19 y vacunemos a todos nuestros residentes y familias inmigrantes de forma gratuita porque hemos sido los mas afectados durante esta pandemia. Co-propuse y pasé legislación para asegurar que Hyattsville sea una ciudad sanctuaria y así lograr que policías de la ciudad no pregunten sobre el estado migratorio de nadie dentro de la ciudad. Co-propuse y pasé legislación para permitir que indocumentados y residentes del país puedan votar en las elecciones municipales de Hyattsville aunque no sean ciudadanos americanos, porque todo el mundo cuenta aquí y merecen tener una voz política.
TRABAJANDO PARA TI
DESDE 2013
PAGADO POR: JOSEPH A. SOLOMON, UNA CAMPAÑA FINANCIADA CON FONDOS PROPIOS | | ¡HABLEMOS! 240-487-9179
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Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
ESTA ES UNA CAMPAÑA PARA:
MEJORAR LOS SERVICIOS Y LAS OPERACIONES DE LA CIUDAD La experiencia del residente cuando interactúa con los servicios de la Ciudad debe ser complaciente, informativa y fácil de entender y navegar. Como miembro del Concejo, presenté y aprobé legislación para actualizar la columna vertebral tecnológica de la Ciudad. Como alcalde, continuaré trabajando a través de la transformación digital de nuestra Ciudad para brindar soluciones mejores, más inteligentes, más rápidas y basadas en datos para nuestra comunidad. El impacto económico de COVID-19 ha contribuido a un aumento de ciertos tipos de delitos. Creo que nuestra policía debe tener las herramientas y los recursos que necesita para combatir la actividad criminal y proteger a nuestra comunidad. Esto incluye una misión clara, que define los servicios proveídos por nuestro departamento de policía de acuerdo con las expectativas de la comunidad de Hyattsville. Lea más sobre mis planes para construir una ciudad de Hyattsville más amigable para el cliente en www.SolomonForHyattsville.com. Si cree profundamente, como yo, que juntos podemos construir una ciudad modelo, impulsada por el compromiso de servir mejor a su comunidad, el martes 11 de mayo, vote por Joseph Solomon como alcalde de la ciudad de Hyattsville.
¡ENVÍE UN MENSAJE DE TEXTO A VOTESOLOMON AL (844) 976-483 PARA OBTENER MÁS INFORMACIÓN!
VOTA 11 DE MAYO JOSEPH SOLOMON
PARA ALCALDE SOLOMONFORALL " Apoyo a Joseph A. Solomon para la alcaldía de la ciudad de Hyattsville. Joseph siempre ha apoyado a nuestra comunidad Latina. Bajo su administración, nuestra comunidad será protegida y respetada. Joseph tiene la experiencia, el conocimiento y la confianza para manejar la ciudad de forma prudente y profesional. Vote por Joseph. " La Delegada Estatal, Joseline A. Peña-Melnyk.
TRABAJANDO PARA TI
DESDE 2013 PAID FOR BY JOSEPH SOLOMON THIS IS A SELF-FUNDED CAMPAIGN | ¡HABLEMOS! 240-487-9179
Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
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CITY OF HYATTSVILLE 2021 ELECTIONS The Hyattsville Life & Times reached out to all candidates registered to run in the city’s 2021 municipal elections. You’ll find their statements in this section, listed by ward in numeric order. Within wards, candidates are listed alphabetically by last name.
MAYOR
Each of the five city wards has two councilmembers, who serve staggered four-year terms. That means residents of each ward can elect one new councilmember in the May 2021 election. The other councilmember will not be up for reelection until 2023. Councilmembers who are not up for reelection are Kevin Ward (Ward 1), Danny Schaible (Ward 2), Ben Simasek (Ward 3), Daniel Peabody (Ward 4) and Joseph Solomon (Ward 5). Ward and Solomon are running for mayor, to serve the last two years of former Mayor Candace B. Hollingsworth’s term, until 2023. Losing the mayoral race, for either of these two, would mean keeping their city council seats. Austin Martinez, who has not served on the city council, is also running for mayor. If Ward or Solomon is elected mayor, the city will conduct a special election early in the summer to fill the council seat that the new mayor will be leaving empty. Three councilmembers decided not to run for reelection in 2021: Bart Lawrence (Ward 1), Carianna Suiter (Ward 3) and Erica Spell Wolf (Ward 5). Robert Croslin (Ward 2) is the only incumbent councilmember in a contested election. For more information on how to vote, see the Hyattsville Reporter.
AUSTIN MARTINEZ Age: 22 Day Job: Self-employed Community Involvement: I am an advocate for minority communities, who has worked alongside elected officials to address domestic violence, expanding social programs and educating minority communities on exercising their constitutional rights to vote. Statement to Voters: I am running for office to be a voice for my community. I will fight to offer pragmatic solutions for working class families, enhance the equality of life, provide economic opportunities and deploy educational resources to our communities. I will fight to make sure every resident in Hyattsville’s voice is heard and validated. Together we will prioritize on rebuilding after COVID.
Candidate Forums April 21 and 22
Join us Wednesday, April 21 and Thursday, April 22 as the Hyattsville Life & Times asks your questions to candidates for mayor and city council. The virtual events will be moderated by Managing Editor Emeritus Maria James. April 21 7 p.m. — Mayoral candidates (Ward, Solomon, Martinez) 8 p.m. — Ward 1 (Denes, Abdul Rahman, Brown, Vallejos) and Ward 2 (Croslin, Lopez) April 22 7 p.m. — Ward 3 (McClellan, Perry, Alfano, Wigley, Hanna, Houck) 8 p.m. — Ward 4 (Haba) and Ward 5 (Sandino, Gorman Oriani, Brintzenhofe, Amador, Page) You can watch the livestream on our website StreetcarSuburbs.News or at facebook.com/ hyattsvillelife.
JOSEPH SOLOMON Age: 35 Day Job: President/CEO of SI FEDERAL, a systems integration and technology consulting firm. I specialize in the design, implementation, project management, and security of enterprise resource planning systems. I hold a B.S. in Computer Science from Morehouse College, and an M.S. in Computer Science from Rutgers University. I moved to the
area when starting my career in consulting for Accenture Federal Services. After seven years, I established my own firm, contracting with the Office of Personnel Management, Department of Agriculture, and Federal Bureau of Prisons. Community Involvement: Eight years on city council. Served as president of the Prince George’s County Municipal Association, vice president of the Prince George’s County Young Democrats, treasurer of the Maryland Municipal League, chair of the Prince George’s County Legacy Renaming Commission, and member of the State of Maryland Body Worn Camera Task Force. I have worshipped at many services here in the City of Hyattsville, but I enjoy spending my Sundays watching Zion Church online with Pastor Keith Battle. Trabajando para la comunidad latina desde 2013: Ayudé a traer un sitio para hacer las pruebas de COVID y distribuir la vacuna a Hyattsville y directamente a la zona de latinas más afectada por el COVID. Co-propuse y pasé legislación para permitir que indocumentados y residentes del país puedan votar en las elecciones municipales de Hyattsville. Co-propuse y pasé legislación para asegurar que Hyattsville sea una ciudad sanctuaria. Statement to Voters: This is a campaign for those looking into the eyes of their children, parents, grandparents and loved ones, resolved not to accept our world within walking distance as it is but rather strive to build a better, safer, cleaner, and more sustainable community. For those who seek a bold and inclusive vision for the future of Hyattsville, that includes: rebuilding our economy and financial capacity post-COVID-19, expanding services and support for parents and seniors, reimagining housing affordability for renters and homeowners, environmental stewardship, improved customer service from city departments, and promoting participatory policy and decision-making. Promoting
and securing quality schools for children will continue to be a priority.
KEVIN WARD Age: 43 Day Job: Self-employed education technology (EdTech) and human services consultant; Father; Husband Community Involvement: Interim mayor of Hyattsville; Hyattsville city council president; Hyattsville city council vice president; Hyattsville city councilmember for Ward 1; Hyattsville Middle School PTA; Hyattsville Elementary School PTA; Northwestern High School PTSA; Emcee for the Hyattsville Zombie Run; White House Foster Care and Technology Hackathon; Forbes 30 Under 30 Mentor; Threetime Rotary Paul Harris Fellow for Dedication to Youth Leadership and Service; Assistant camp director for RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) for nearly two decades. Statement to Voters: I love Hyattsville. Our city has become a jewel in the crown of Prince George’s County, and I ask for your vote to become its next mayor. I plan to build on the city’s strong record over the past six years, creating a Hyattsville that grows in beauty, safety, inclusiveness, and financial responsibility. The first priority is doing our part to helping our residents and businesses survive the pandemic, now that the end appears in sight. By dedicating COVID-relief funds and building partnerships with government and community partners, Hyattsville can provide assistance to residents and businesses to help make ends meet. But at the same time, housing and food insecurity
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Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
Kevin Ward.
Experienced Leadership for Hyattsville. Elected twice to the City Council, Kevin currently serves as Hyattsville’s Interim Mayor. Kevin’s record of leadership includes: HEALTH & SAFETY. Kevin worked with city staff and Luminis Health to bring a COVID-19 vaccination site to the First Methodist Church of Hyattsville. EDUCATION. Kevin worked to keep Hyattsville Middle School a construction priority for PGCPS and introduced legislation to create a city-run aftercare program. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT. Kevin supported the ongoing growth of the Arts District and the redevelopment of the Riverfront at West Hyattsville. RECREATION. Kevin led the effort to reopen the Trolley Trail and has been a consistent, vocal supporter of our city parks. EQUITY. Kevin co-sponsored legislation to designate Hyattsville as a sanctuary city and helped increase civic engagement through Speak Up Hyattsville.
yor
or ma f d r a W n evi
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Vote Kevin Ward
for Hyattsville Mayor Election Day is Tuesday, May 11. Return your mail-in ballot today!
Learn more at: www.WardforHyattsville.com Authorized by Kevin Ward, Candidate
Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021 are not COVID-dependent. We must build durable solutions to meet the needs of our city. We must expand the inventory of clean and safe affordable housing in Hyattsville. And we must demand that our county representatives step up to the plate and help in this effort. We can make it safer and easier for residents to travel throughout the city. I want to harness technology to make it easier for the city to hear from and serve more people, more easily. We must support our artists and entrepreneurs, plus draw more of them to Hyattsville. We should expand community policing to improve public safety. We should continue to lead on environmentally responsible policy making. And we must treat all parts of the city equitably, both in terms of investment and availability of city resources. With pragmatic and smart decision making, these ambitious goals are achievable if we all work together. That is why I am running for mayor and humbly ask for your vote. Sensible. Practical. Here for Hyattsville.
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WARD 1
MAI ABDUL RAHMAN Age: 55 Day Job: Last December, I was asked to join the Covid-19 Task Force at the Maryland State House, where I currently work. Community Involvement: I am a member of the Education Advisory Committee and the Police & Public Safety Citizens’ Advisory Committee, Maryland’s Responds Medical Reserve Corps, and Engine 13 Volunteer Fire Station (EMT). After the lockdown, I began volunteering at Prince George’s first Covid-19 test site (FedEX Stadium), later joined other local Covid-19 test sites, and weekly helped with packaging food and PPE to deliver to Hyattsville residents who tested positive and quarantined. Statement to Voters: While the collection of my civic activi-
ties offered me greater insight on the needs of our community and how best to address them, I never lost sight of how special Hyattsville is. Nonetheless, there is room for improvement. For brevity, I will share two specific issues that I believe deserve attention. They concern two of our collective assets: our youth and seniors. Ward 1 enjoys the highest college graduation rates, yet our high school proficiency rates in reading (23%) and math (47%) are dismal, and dropout rate is substandard (33%). As an educator who taught K-12 students and prospective teachers at the college level, I know that this is a problem that is fixable. It requires institutionalizing high quality supportive systems and measures. Methodically designing and developing the right targeted supports and quality control procedures would help students realize their full potential and teachers flourish as productive professionals. Our culturally diverse seniors and retired residents also merit our attention. Research shows that 60+ adults are interested in health, wellness, and intellectual engagement. This requires funding a senior center where our diverse senior
population socializes and fulfills their social, physical, emotional, and intellectual needs. Where willing seniors can bridge the achievement gap by supporting young students as reading and math instructors, or mentors, which would advance the well being of seniors and youth. I do not claim to know all the answers. However, I promise to be a good listener and serve Ward 1 sincerely, thoughtfully, and to the best of my abilities. And that is a promise I intend to keep. Dr. Mai Abdul Rahman 5652 46th Place Hyattsville, Maryland 20781
MICHAEL BROWN Age: 33 Day Job: Engineer for Army Corps of Engineers Community Involvement:
Engineer, veteran, and activist Michael Brown first showed interest in politics when he joined Veterans in Politics after enlisting in the United States Navy. In addition to his involvement with that group, Brown was deployed to the Middle East where he served his country in uniform with preparation, expertise, and confidence. This experience would help shape his commitment to his country and inspire him to serve his local community. Brown is an emergency food distribution volunteer helping to distribute over 1000 boxes once a week of USDA fresh produce, proteins and dairy products, nonperishable, and perishable items. Statement to Voters: As the next Hyattsville City Council representative for Ward 1, Brown is deeply connected to both Hyattsville and Prince George’s county with family ties to the area that extend over 30 years. Brown’s vision for Hyattsville focuses on the following: 1) Education & Art, 2) Community Enhancement, 3) Transparent & Open Government, 4) Health & Wellness, 5) Economic Development and 6) a Better Hyattsville! I’ll work to ensure that our
POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT
MAI
ABDUL RAHMAN for Ward 1 City Council ELECT MAI IN MAY Saleema Snow (Longfellow Street)
Mirieth Valenciano Marin (46th Place)
Andy Shallal (Busboys and Poets)
“I support Mai for Ward 1 Hyattsville, City Council. She is a thoughtful and compassionate person with a strong intellect and drive to do right. I will vote for Mai for the Ward 1 Seat, and I strongly urge you to vote for Mai as well.”
“Mai is an excellent candidate to represent Ward 1. She is well known for her volunteer service in the community and beyond. Mai has the experience and skill to make positive changes and bring together our multicultural community. She is the neighbor we can always count on.”
“Mai has been a staunch advocate for equity and social justice for decades. She is a principled leader with a heart. Something we desperately need at this time.”
www.MaiForWard1.com
BY AUTHORITY OF MAI ABDUL RAHMAN, CANDIDATE, HYATTSVILLE CITY COUNCIL WARD 1
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Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
the
Hyattsville Reporter Notices and Updates
No. 397 • April 13, 2021
www.hyattsville.org • 301-985-5000 dad to a child with autism. Residents can submit questions to pio@hyattsville.org or ask them during the discussion.
City Election: The City of Hyattsville will host a vote-by-mail election this May to elect a new Mayor and Councilmembers to represent Hyattsville’s five Wards! The first round of ballots has been mailed to all registered voters. Ballots can be returned by mail or at secure drop boxes located at the City Building and Heurich Park. You can track your mailed ballot at hyattsville. org/vote. If you did not receive a ballot, you may request and pick one up in person at the City Building by appointment. Sameday voter registration and in-person voting will be available on Election Day, May 11, 7 a.m. – 8 p.m., at the City Building. If you have questions, please contact The City’s Voter Hotline at (301) 322-7497 or email votebymail@hyattsville.org.
Bulk Trash Pop-Up Day: Mark your calendar! The City has scheduled a Bulk Trash Pop-Up Day on Saturday, April 24, at the City Building and Magruder Park, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., or until containers reach capacity. Questions? Call (301) 9855032 or visit hyattsville.org/bulk-trash. Resident Parking Permits: Parking permit renewal season is upon us! Group 2 permits (Zones 2, 6, 9A, and 13) are set to expire on April 30. Group 1 permits (Zones 3, 4, and 12) expired on March 31. If you haven’t already, visit hyattsville.org/respermits to complete the renewal process. Next up will be Group 3 (Zones 1, 8, 10, and 11) and Group 4 (9B) are both set to expire on May 31. The renewal portal opens 30 days before permits expire for each group. Contact (301) 985-5027 or visit hyattsville. org/res-permits for assistance.
Candidate Forums Schedule: The Hyattsville Life & Times will host two virtual Candidate Forums on Wednesday, April 21 (Mayor and Wards 1 & 2) and on Thursday, April 22 (Wards 3, 4, and 5). Both Forums begin at 7 p.m. and will be live streamed on the Hyattsville Life and Time’s Facebook page, facebook.com/ hyattsvillelife. The City does not endorse this or any forum. However, to help inform residents, the City will broadcast the Forums on cable channels 71 (Comcast) and 12 (Verizon) and stream online at hyattsville.org/meetings and on facebook.com/ cityofhyattsville. COVID-19 Guidelines: Even with the number of vaccinated individuals growing, Prince George’s County remains in a Phase 2 reopening stage. Face coverings are still required in all indoor and outdoor public spaces. Restaurants, retail establishments, and houses of worship can operate at a 50% occupancy capacity. Indoor gatherings are limited to 20 people, and outdoor groups are limited to 50 people. For complete guidance on the County’s reopening plan, visit mypgc.us/reopen. COVID-19 Vaccine: Make sure you are pre-registered for your COVID-19 vaccine! You can find registration forms for the state, the County, and the City vaccination site at the First United Methodist Church of Hyattsville at hyattsville.org/covidvaccine. All County residents are eligible for the vaccine, regardless of insurance coverage or immigration status. West Hyattsville Sidewalk Project: Road and sidewalk reconstruction work for the West Hyattsville Sidewalk Project has commenced! The project is expected to be completed in approximately three months. In the meantime, pedestrians are encouraged to use alternate routes around the following Blocks: 5800 Block of 32nd Avenue, 5800 Block of 33rd Place, 3300 Block of Lancer Place, 3100 Block of Helliher Road, and the 3100 and 3200 Blocks of Kimberly Road. Metro Station Closures: Metro’s accelerated Platform Improvement Project will begin to impact the West Hyattsville, Prince George’s Plaza, College Park, University of Maryland, and Greenbelt stations in anticipation of station closures over the summer to upgrade services and safety features. During the weekends of April 17-18 and May 1-2, the stations will be closed with reduced or relocated parking to stage construction equipment. Shuttle service will replace the trains. Bus stops at the Prince George’s Plaza station will be relocated starting April 19. The stations
Thank you, Hyattsville Volunteers: On National Volunteer Week, April 18 – 24, the City is turning the social media spotlight on its many dedicated volunteers who donate their time and effort to make Hyattsville a better place to live, work, and play. If you’d like to become a part of the volunteer movement, the City is looking for residents to join committees and volunteer at local food distributions! To learn more and to apply, visit hyattsville.org/committees or hyattsville.org/volunteer.
If you’ve received your vote-by-mail ballot for Hyattsville’s 2021 May Election for a new Mayor and Councilmembers, mail it back or drop it off at one of the City’s secure drop boxes located at the City Building and Heurich Park! Si ha recibido su boleta por correo para la Elección de Hyattsville del 2021 de mayo para un nuevo Alcalde y Concejales, ¡envíela por correo o déjela en una de las cajas seguras de la Ciudad ubicadas en el Edificio Municipal y en Heurich Park! are expected to be fully closed for repairs from May 29 to September 6. Shuttle service will be offered during this time. For project details, visit wmata.com/service/ rail/PlatformProject.
Programs, Services, and Events
Hyattsville COVID-19 Vaccination and Testing Site: The COVID-19 vaccination site at the First United Methodist Church of Hyattsville is open. The site offers vaccine appointments on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. You must have an appointment to receive a vaccine as walk-ups are not accepted. Register for an appointment at hyattsville. org/covidvaccine. The City continues to offer free nonappointment COVID-19 testing at First United Methodist Church, 6201 Belcrest Road. The site administers walk-up and drive-thru tests on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., or until the site reaches capacity. For testing site questions, call (301) 985- 5000. Vaccinations and testing at this site are being operated through a partnership between the City, Luminis Health, the County Health Department, and the First United Methodist Church of Hyattsville. Free Diapers Available on April 17!: In a partnership with the Greater DC Diaper Bank, the City will host a distribution of free diapers sized newborn to 6 on Saturday, April 17, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pick-
ups will be at the Magruder Park Recreation Building, 3911 Hamilton Street. No pre-registration or proof of City residency is required. However, families must provide proof of the child’s date of birth. This may include but is not limited to a birth certificate, insurance card, passport, immunization record, childcare bill or other document that includes child’s name and date of birth. For questions, call (301) 9855000. Hyattsville COVID-19 Relief Fund: The City is still accepting grant applications for the Hyattsville COVID-19 Relief Fund! Grants of $750 ($300 for non-City resident employees) are available to working artists, licensed barbers, cosmetologists, pet groomers, and tattoo artists who currently work in businesses registered within City limits. Applications and details are available at hyattsville.org/relief-fund. Regional, locally owned full-service restaurants, distilleries, breweries, wineries, and meaderies operating in the incorporated City of Hyattsville can also apply for the City’s Restaurant Relief Fund. Applications will be accepted until April 30, 2021. Visit hyattsville.org/restaurants to apply. A Conversation about Autism: In honor of Autism Acceptance Month, tune in to the City’s Instagram (@cityofhyattsville) for an Instagram Live on Friday, April 30, at 5 p.m., with Hyattsville City Councilmember Danny Schaible. Councilmember Schaible will share his personal story about being a
Home Weatherization Assistance: Habitat for Humanity Metro Maryland a non-profit organization, is offering free weatherization services to homeowners seeking to improve the energy efficiency of their homes and reduce the cost of their energy bills. Services include air sealing, insulation, duct sealing, Energy Star certified appliances, and HVAC system repairs and upgrades. Qualifying applicants must be income-eligible and demonstrate a need for weatherization services. For full details, visit habitatmm.org.
Youth Services
Teen Center: The City’s E-Teen Center offers fun and engaging programs for Hyattsville teens and tweens – check out their upcoming schedule! Visit hyattsville.org/ teen-center for more information. • Tutoring and Homework Help: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, 6:30 – 8 p.m. • Boys & Girls Club: Monday, April 26 and May 10, 5 p.m. • Real Talk: Friday, May 14, 5 p.m. Animal Stories with Creative Minds: Celebrate Earth Day April 22 with Creative Minds at Home as they listen to the First Nations’ stories with Artist Dovie Thomason! They’ll explain the “what” and “why” questions about Earth and her animal children--why a bear hibernates, why a rabbit has no tail, etc. The free event begins at 11 a.m. For registration instructions, visit hyattsville.org/creativeminds. Summer Camp: Campers (and parents) can rejoice as in-person summer camp is back in Hyattsville from June 21 to August 20! Slots are currently full, but a waitlist has been added if County indoor capacity requirements increase. Visit hyattsville. org/summer-camp to sign up for the waitlist.
Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
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Hyattsville
No. 397 • 13 de Abril, 2021
www.hyattsville.org • 301-985-5000
Avisos y Noticias
Permisos de Parqueo Residencial: ¡El tiempo de renovar permiso de parqueo llego! Los permisos del Grupo 2 (zonas 2, 6, 9A y 13) expirarán el 30 de abril. Los permisos del Grupo 1 (zonas 3, 4 y 12) expiraron el 31 de marzo. Si aún no lo ha hecho, visite a hyattsville.org/res-permits para completar el proceso de renovación. A continuación, siguen el Grupo 3 (zonas 1, 8, 10 y 11) y el Grupo 4 (9B), ambos cuya fecha de expiración está fijada para el 31 de mayo. El portal de renovación abre 30 días antes de que se expiren los permisos para cada grupo. ¿Alguna pregunta? Llame al (301) 985-5027.
Elección Municipal: ¡La Ciudad de Hyattsville sostendrá una elección de voto por correo este mayo para seleccionar a un nuevo Alcalde y a Concejales para representar a los cinco Distritos de Hyattsville! La primera ronda de boletas ha sido enviada por correo los votantes registrados. Boletas pueden ser retornadas por correo o en una de las cajas seguras ubicadas en el Edificio Municipal y en Heurich Park. Puede rastrear su boleta en hyattsville. org/vote. Si no recibió una boleta, puede solicitar y recoger una en persona con cita en el Edificio Municipal. Las opciones de registración de mismo día y votar en persona estarán disponibles el Día de Elección, 11 de mayo, de 7 a.m. a 8 p.m., en el Edificio Municipal. Si tiene preguntas, por favor contacte a línea directa de votantes de la Ciudad al (301) 322-7497 o a votebymail@ hyattsville.org. Programa de Foros de Candidatos: El periódico Hyattsville Life & Times sostendrá dos Foros de Candidatos virtuales el miércoles, 21 de abril (Alcalde y Distritos 1 y 2) y el jueves, 22 de abril (Distritos 3, 4 y 5). Ambos Foros empiezan a las 7 p.m. y serán transmitidos en la pagina de Facebook del Life & Times, facebook. com/hyattsvillelife. La Ciudad no endorsa este o ningún otro foro. Sin embargo, para ayudar a informar a residentes, la Ciudad transmitirá los Foros en los canales de cable 71 (Comcast) y 12 (Verizon) y en línea en las paginas de la Ciudad en hyattsville. org/meetings y en facebook.com/cityofhyattsville. Directrices de COVID-19: Incluso con el aumento del número de personas vacunadas, el Condado Prince George’s sigue en una fase de reapertura 2. Las cubre bocas todavía se requieren en todos los espacios públicos interiores y exteriores. Restaurantes, establecimientos y casas de culto pueden operar a una capacidad de ocupación del 50%. Las reuniones interiores están limitadas a 20 personas, y los grupos al aire libre están limitados a 50 personas. Para obtener una guía completa sobre el plan de reapertura del condado, visite mypgc.us/reopen. Vacuna COVID-19: ¡Asegúrese de que este pre-registrado para su vacuna COVID-19! Puede encontrar formularios de inscripción para el estado, el condado y el sitio de vacunación de la Ciudad en la Iglesia First United Methodist de Hyattsville en hyattsville.org/covidvaccine. Todos los residentes del Condado son elegibles para la vacuna, sin importar la cobertura del seguro o el estado migratorio. Proyecto de Acerca de West Hyattsville: ¡El trabajo de reconstrucción de carreteras y aceras para el Proyecto de Aceras de West Hyattsville ya comenzó! Se espera que el proyecto esté terminado en aproximadamente tres meses. Mientras tanto, se anima a los peatones a utilizar rutas alternativas alrededor de los siguientes bloques: 5800 bloque de 32nd Avenue, 5800 bloque de 33rd Place, 3300 bloque de Lancer Place, 3100 bloque de Helliher Road, y los 3100 y 3200 bloques de Kimberly Road. Cierres de Estaciones de Metro: El proyecto acelerado de Mejora de la Plataforma de Metro comenzará a afectar las estaciones West Hyattsville, Prince George’s Plaza, College Park-University of Maryland y Greenbelt en previsión del cierre de estaciones durante el verano para me-
Hyattsville staff and council members recently thanked the City’s food distribution volunteers, who have helped distribute over 70,000 boxes of food to this date, by way of a special celebration in their honor at Magruder Park. El personal de Hyattsville y los miembros del concejo agradecieron recientemente a los voluntarios de distribución de alimentos de la Ciudad, quienes han ayudado a distribuir más de 70,000 cajas de alimentos hasta la fecha, a través de una celebración especial en su honor en el Parque Magruder.. jorar los servicios y las características de seguridad. Durante los fines de semana del 17 al 18 de abril y del 1 al 2 de mayo, las estaciones estarán cerradas con estacionamiento reducido o reubicado para el equipo de construcción. El servicio de transporte reemplazará a los trenes. Las paradas de autobuses de la estación Prince George’s Plaza serán reubicadas empezando el 19 de abril. Se espera que las estaciones estén completamente cerradas para reparaciones del 29 de mayo al 6 de septiembre. Se ofrecerá servicio de transporte durante este tiempo. Para detalles, visite wmata. com/service/rail/PlatformProject.
Programas, Servicios y Eventos
Sitio de Vacunas y Pruebas COVID de Hyattsville: El sitio de vacunación COVID-19 ubicado dentro de la Iglesia First United Methodist de Hyattsville esta abierta. El sitio ofrece citas de vacunas los martes y miércoles, de 9 a.m. a 5 p.m. Debe tener una cita para recibir una vacuna ya que personas sin cita no son aceptados. Regístrese para una cita en hyattsville.org/ covid-19. La Ciudad continúa ofreciendo pruebas COVID-19 sin cita en la Iglesia First United Methodist, 6201 Belcrest Road. El sitio administra pruebas a personas en pie y a conductores los lunes, jueves y sábados, de 9 a.m. a 3 p.m. o hasta que el sitio alcance su capacidad. Para preguntas sobre el sitio de prueba, llame al (301) 985- 5000. El sitio de vacunas y pruebas COVID-19 está siendo operado a través de una asociación entre la Ciudad, Luminis Health, el Departamento de Salud del Condado de Prince George’s y la Primera Iglesia Metodista Unida de Hyattsville. ¡Pañales Gratuitos Disponibles el 17 de Abril!: En asociación con el Greater DC Diaper Bank, la Ciudad ofrecerá una distribución gratuita de pañales para recién nacidos a talla 6 el sábado 17 de abril, de 9 a.m. a 4 p.m. Las recogidas serán en el Edificio de Recreación Magruder Park, 3911 Hamilton Street. No se requiere preinscripción o prueba de residencia en la Ciudad. Sin embargo, las familias deben proporcionar prueba de la fecha de
nacimiento del menor. Esto puede incluir, entre otros, un certificado de nacimiento, tarjeta de seguro, pasaporte, registro de vacunación, factura de cuidado de niños u otro documento que incluya el nombre y la fecha de nacimiento del niño. Si tiene preguntas, llame al (301) 985-5000. Fondo de Alivio COVID-19 de Hyattsville: ¡La Ciudad todavía esta aceptando solicitudes de subvención para el Fondo de Alivio COVID-19 de Hyattsville! Subvenciones de $750 ($300 para trabajadores que no son residentes de la Ciudad) están disponibles a artistas trabajantes, peluqueros licenciados, cosmetólogas, “groomers” de animales y artistas de tatuaje que actualmente trabajan en negocios registrados dentro de los limites de la Ciudad. Los detalles y las aplicaciones están disponibles en hyattsville.org/relief-fund. Restaurantes regionales y locales de servicio completo, destilerías, cervecerías y bodegas/megaterías en operando en la Ciudad incorporada de Hyattsville todavía puede solicitar subvenciones del Fondo de Alivio COVID-19 de Restaurantes. Las solicitudes serán aceptadas hasta el 30 de abril de 2021, o hasta que se agoten los fondos. Visite hyattsville.org/restaurants para aplicar. Una conversación sobre Autismo: En honor del Mes de Aceptación del Autismo, sintonice al Instagram de la Ciudad (@ cityofhyattsville) para un Instagram Live el viernes 30 de abril, a las 5 p.m., con Danny Schaible, miembro del Concejo de la Ciudad de Hyattsville. El Concejal Schaible compartirá su historia personal sobre ser un papá a un niño con autismo. Los residentes pueden enviar preguntas a pio@hyattsville.org o durante la discusión. Día Emergente de Basuras Grandes: ¡Marque su calendario! La Ciudad ha programado un Día Emergente de Basuras Grandes el sábado, 24 de abril, en el Edificio Municipal y Magruder Park, de 10 a.m. a 2 p.m., o hasta que se llenen los contenedores. ¿Alguna pregunta? Llame al (301) 985-5032 o visite hyattsville.org/ bulk-trash.
Gracias, Voluntarios de Hyattsville: En la Semana Nacional de los Voluntarios, del 18 al 24 de abril, la Ciudad está destacando en las redes sociales sus muchos voluntarios dedicados que donan su tiempo y esfuerzo para hacer de Hyattsville un mejor lugar para vivir, trabajar y jugar. ¡Si quiere formar parte del movimiento de voluntarios, la Ciudad está buscando residentes para unirse a comités y voluntarios en las distribuciones locales de alimentos! Para obtener más información y solicitar, visite hyattsville.org/ committees o hyattsville.org/volunteer. Asistencia de Climatización de Hogar: Habitat for Humanity Metro Maryland, una organización sin fines de lucro, está ofreciendo servicios gratuitos de climatización a los propietarios de hogares que buscan mejorar la eficiencia energética y reducir el costo de sus facturas de energía. Los servicios incluyen sellado de aire, aislamiento, sellado de conductos, aparatos certificados por Energy Star, y reparaciones y mejoras del sistema HVAC. Los solicitantes que califiquen deben ser elegibles para recibir ingresos y demostrar la necesidad de servicios de climatización. Para obtener más información, visite habitatmm.org.
Servicios de Menores
Centro de Jóvenes: El E-Centro de Jóvenes de la Ciudad ofrece diversión y programas entretenidos para los adolescentes y pre-adolescentes de Hyattsville. Visite a hyattsville.org/teen-center para más detalles. • Tutoría y Ayuda con la Tarea: martes, miércoles y jueves, de 6:30 p.m. a 8 p.m. • Club de Jóvenes: lunes, 26 de abril y 10 de mayo, 5 p.m. • Conversaciones Reales: viernes, 14 de mayo, 5 p.m. Historias de Animales con Creative Minds: ¡Celebre el Día de la Tierra el abril 22 con Creative Minds mientras escuchan las historias de las Primeras Naciones con el artista Dovie Thomason! Ellos explicarán las preguntas sobre “qué” y “por qué” acerca de la Tierra y sus hijos de animales, por qué un oso hiberna, por qué un conejo no tiene cola, etc. el evento comienza a las 11 a.m. para instrucciones de registro, visite hyattsville.org/creativeminds. Campamento de Verano: ¡Los campistas (y padres) pueden celebrar ya que el campamento de verano en persona está de vuelta en Hyattsville del 21 de junio al 20 de agosto! Los espacios están actualmente llenis, pero se ha añadido una lista de espera si los requisitos de capacidad COVID019 para espacios interiores del Condado aumentan. Visite hyattsville.org/summercamp para inscribirse en la lista de espera.
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Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
city council is more transparent and responsive to the needs of our residents. I believe that public engagement enhances the effectiveness and improves the quality of the council’s decisions. I’ll advocate for a culture of transparency, accountability, communication, and represent the voices of the people. I’ll champion a dynamic community that celebrates us all.
SAM DENES Age: 40 Day Job: Marine acoustician, Bureau of Ocean Energy Management Community Involvement: City of Hyattsville Health, Wellness and Recreation Advisory Committee, secretary; Arts District Hyattsville Master Homeowners Association Board of Directors, president; WABA Maryland Legislative Advocacy Working Group, member; Frequent attendant, Hyattsville City Council meetings; Frequency attendant, Ward 1 Check-ins ; Volunteer, Anacostia Watershed cleanup; Volunteer, City of Hyattsville
emergency food distribution Statement to Voters: I love Hyattsville. I first came to Hyattsville when house hunting in 2017 and knew I had to look no further. Experiencing the charm of downtown and community spirit as I toured the neighborhoods, I knew I had found a new home. Since moving here, I have grown incredibly fond of the city and its residents and have endeavored to make Hyattsville even better. Through advocacy, volunteering, and service on an advisory committee, I have spent the past four years working for a better Hyattsville. Now I would like to bring my care and commitment to the city council, and that is why I am running to represent Ward 1. Representing Ward 1 on city council my top priorities will be 1) transportation/pedestrian/cyclist safety, 2) the environment, 3) crime prevention, and 4) responsible governance. Since moving to Hyattsville, I have been advocating for increased bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure and safe streets initiatives. For more than two years, I’ve been a member of the city’s Health, Wellness, and Recreation Advisory Committee, working to provide Hyattsville residents with a variety of programming and opportunities. In 2019, I became a board member and, eventually, president of the Arts District Hyattsville Master Homeowners Association. During the
SAM
denes Hyattsville City Council
pandemic, I have regularly volunteered with the city’s food distribution program, helping to get weekly emergency provisions into the hands of families that need it most. I’ve also regularly attended (virtually and in-person) other committee meetings, Ward 1 Checkins, and city council meetings. These experiences have helped me to understand the functions, limitations, and possibilities of our local government. I’d like the opportunity to explain how my experience, dedication, hard work, and leadership will contribute to my goals of making Hyattsville even better. Email: samdenes4hvl@ gmail.com
district. I served on the board of directors of several Latino social service organizations. I incorporated one of these agencies. As legal counsel, I represented several immigrant groups: anti-Pinochet Chilenos, Salvadoreños, and Eritrean-African socialists. I supported the elimination of the apartheid system in South Africa in 1972. In 1985, I ran for office regarding the Sacramento County War on Poverty Commission. Statement to Voters: The Hyattsville population of 18,000+ is 37% Latino, 29% Black, 24% White and 4% Asian. There is currently no Latino representation on the city council. My candidacy creates a Latino presence, and future acceptability of Latinos as having representation in city government. I am a Mexican American.
WARD 2
DANIEL VALLEJOS-AVILA Age: 77 Day Job: I have been retired since 2019. I was a secondary school teacher in California for 11 years. I studied and practiced law for 30 years prior to that. I handled many civil rights cases. I was licensed with the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, the federal district court for Western Washington and the state of Washington Supreme Court. I was also a licensed counselor in community mental health. Community Involvement: I am fluent in English and Spanish. I began moving to Hyattsville in September 2020. Along with CASA, I participated in the 2020 census. In 2014 I assisted Eric Guerra in his candidacy for Sacramento, Calif., city council. He’s now running for the state senate. In 2012, I worked for Stockton city councilmember Susan Talamantes Eggman in running for the California State Assembly successfully. She is now a candidate for the California State Senate. Each senator represents one million constituents. In 1991, I ran for the Seattle School Board. My platform included Black elementary academies, the forceful elimination of gay bashing of youngsters and culturally relevant classrooms for Latinos and Asians students. I was endorsed by The Seattle Times newspaper and a couple of unions. In 1985 I began serving on the education task force for the Seattle school
ROBERT CROSLIN Age: 69 Day Job: Goldsmith; Artist and jewelry designer; Former landscape architect; Former HUD [Department of Housing and Urban Development] contractor Community Involvement: Eight years on the city council; Hyattsville Aging in Place: founding member; Hyattsville Community Artist Alliance: founding member; Council liaison to the Police and Public Safety Committee; Bridging Cultural Gaps Book Club: founder and participant Statement to Voters: I have been a Hyattsville resident for 32 years and your councilman for eight. I am running to continue my advocacy for programs and initiatives that reflect the priorities of Ward 2 residents and the larger community, such as hiring a senior/disability coordinator, establishing and supporting city pandemic relief with Ward 2 discretionary funds, and voting for mental health first aid classes in English and Spanish for residents. I have hosted a community conversation at my home after the Ferguson killing, and I work as the council liaison with the Police and Public Safety Committee to ensure that all citizens are served
and protected equally. I will propose that our city council take a strong stance against all forms of hate, bigotry and violence. I supported the designation of Hyattsville as a sanctuary city, and I will continue to work with residents and the council to develop initiatives that foster equity, diversity and inclusion in our community, so that every person feels respected, welcome and safe. This includes proposing reactivation of a teen advisory committee to obtain input on what city support our young people need. I am a founder of the stillactive Bridging Cultural Gaps Book Club, which meets the second Thursday of the month, now via Zoom, and remain active here in the Arts District via the Hyattsville Community Artist Alliance, which I helped found. I am grateful to have been trusted by my community to serve on the city council for eight years, and I am asking my neighbors to reelect me on May 11. We still have much work to do on other issues such as affordable housing, practical green initiatives, and improved city services for the community, all within the parameters of fiscal responsibility. I am always available to discuss your ideas and concerns.
OLIVA LOPEZ Age: 42 Day Job: Managing director for policy at philanthropic organization focused on promoting equity and economic mobility. Directora gerente en una organización filantrópica dedicada a promover equidad y oportunidades económicas. Community Involvement: I am a long-term supporter of CASA de Maryland and other local efforts to support immigrant and refugee populations in Hyattsville and Prince George’s County. I have a background in community organizing that has taken me all over the country, and other parts of the world. My decision to run for city council is rooted in my desire to give back to this community. Apoyo a CASA de Maryland y otros esfuerzos locales para apoyar a las poblaciones de
Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
Engineer, veteran, and activist Michael Brown first showed interest in politics when he joined Veterans in Politics after enlisting in the United States Navy. In addition to his involvement with that group, Brown was deployed to the Middle East where he served his country in uniform with preparation, expertise, and confidence. This experience would help shape his commitment to his country and inspire him to serve his local community. As the next Hyattsville City Council representative for Ward 1, Brown is deeply connected to both Hyattsville and Prince George’s county with family ties to the area that extend over 30 years. Brown’s vision for Hyattsville focuses on the following: 1) Education & Art, 2) Community Enhancement, 3) Transparent & Open Government, 4) Health & Wellness, and 5) a Better Hyattsville!
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POLICIES Community Enhancement and Economic Development I’ll advocate for the restoration of Hyattsville’s character and enhance the sense of our community by partnering with entities to discuss both housing and the funding to repave the streets and sidewalks within our neighborhood. I’ll advocate for neighborhood monitoring to ensure our residents are safe by advocating for more traffic calming devices in our city. I’ll work to ensure our city services are better for residents. I’ll partner with our public transportation providers to help prioritize connections to and from the Metro stations and Arts District and to bring a way-finding program to help promote safe passage for both pedestrians and vehicles. I’ll advocate for efficient traffic circulation and bicycle lanes and seek to integrate trails into the local transportation that are safe for both residents and visitors. Transparent & Open Government I’ll work to ensure that our city council is more transparent and responsive to the needs of our residents. I believe that public engagement enhances the effectiveness and improves the quality of the council’s decisions. I’ll advocate for a culture of transparency, accountability, communication, and represent the voices of the people. I’ll champion a dynamic community that celebrates us all.
Education & Art I’ll partner and advocate for education enrichment and athletic programs for the children in Hyattsville due to the cut in funding outside of school. I’ll work towards the renaming of Magruder Park Recreation Center in Hyattsville that better fits the needs of the community. Brown is ready to partner with art installations to honor David C. Driskell, an esteemed Hyattsville artist, to bring his work to the Centennial Park as well. Part of my vision for our community is to preserve the history of Hyattsville and its arts and cultural heritage. I’d like to advocate to have ASL intrepreters at all City Council meetings and buinesses to ensure our community is inclusive. Health & Wellness Here are the basics of how to wear a mask: • Clean your hands before you put your mask on, as well as before and after you take it off, and after you touch it at any time. • Make sure it covers both your nose, mouth and chin. • Avoid Social Gatherings • COVID-19 vaccination site will be held at the First United Methodist Church of Hyattsville, request an appointment at Hyattsville.org/covid-19 • Locate Your Testing Site: Dial 311 • For COVID-19 information and updates, visit health.mypgc.us/coronavirus
Authorized by Michael Brown for Hyattsville Committee, Jerome Lewis, Treasurer.
Page 18 inmigrantes en Hyattsville y el condado de Prince Georges. Tengo experiencia en organización comunitaria que me ha llevado a viajar por todo el país y otras partes del mundo. Mi decisión de postularme para el concejo municipal tiene sus raíces en mi deseo de contribuir al bienestar de esta comunidad. Statement to Voters: I hope that my professional experience working to promote economic opportunities in majority minority communities like Hyattsville, and my current work to ensure there is equitable access to Covid vaccines can be of service to our community and neighbors. For example, last year I had the chance to work on efforts to extend the reach of the Farmers to Families program, which is the U.S. Department of Agriculture program that facilitates distribution of food to our neighbors in need every Tuesday at the park. I am also looking forward to sharing what I learned from managing First Lady Michelle Obama’s young women’s mentoring program to help create and support more opportunities for young people. As we continue to grow and evolve as a community, I also hope to do my part to help ensure that the voices of all residents are represented in our city’s government, and I am particularly interested in building bridges with our Spanishspeaking neighbors. I hope I can count on your support, and I look forward to meeting you, listening and learning from you in the weeks to come. Espero que mi experiencia profesional trabajando para promover oportunidades económicas en comunidades de minorías mayoritarias como Hyattsville, y mi trabajo actual para garantizar que haya un
Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021 acceso equitativo a las vacunas Covid puedan ser de utilidad para nuestra comunidad y vecinos. Por ejemplo, el año pasado tuve la oportunidad de trabajar en esfuerzos para extender el alcance del programa Farmers to Families del Departamento de Agricultura. Este programa facilita la distribución de alimentos a nuestros vecinos todos los martes en el parque. También espero compartir lo que aprendí al administrar el programa de liderazgo para mujeres jóvenes de la primera dama Michelle Obama y ayudar a apoyar y crear más oportunidades para nuestros jóvenes. A medida que continuamos creciendo y evolucionando como comunidad, espero hacer mi parte para ayudar a asegurar que las voces de todos los residentes estén representadas en el gobierno de nuestra ciudad, y estoy particularmente interesada en construir lazos con nuestros vecinos de habla hispana. Espero poder contar con su apoyo y espero conocer, escuchar y aprender de usted en las próximas semanas.
WARD 3
ADAM ALFANO Age: 36 Day Job: I currently work for PPG Industries in automotive refinish. This means that I work with local body shops in the
ADAM ALFANO
surrounding counties and help the owners manage their business by improving efficiencies and profitability. Prior to this position, I spent 15 years working in the restaurant industry in the DMV area with most of my experience with Clyde’s Restaurant Group. I worked my way up from dishwasher to general manager over the course of many years and have worked in all styles of restaurants. The hospitality industry is important to me and is the lens in how I view the world. I enjoy working with people and learning from each person. Community Involvement: I play tennis at JTCC [Junior Tennis Champions Center] 3-4 times per week. JTCC is committed to growing the sport of tennis through its community outreach programs in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area by providing free tennis instruction to underserved youth, military veterans, Special Olympians, and adaptive athletes. Statement to Voters: I am running for city council to ensure that all voices are heard. Having spent many years working in restaurants and now body shops, I have had the unique opportunity to learn from people with many different backgrounds. I also have the experience of running and owning a small business, which is another skill set that is important to helping those that live and work in Hyattsville. I live across the street from PG Plaza Mall which is a tremendous opportunity for the city. Big box retail won’t survive the next 10 years, and we can use this opportunity to promote small, local businesses. My focus is on keeping small businesses thriving in Hyattsville and providing opportunities for all. I want to focus on the
CANDIDATE FOR WARD 3 COUNCILMEMBER
Supporting small businesses for over 20 years. I’m running to ensure that Hyattsville becomes a sustainable community of the future. From Historic Route 1 to PG Plaza mall, we have tremendous opportunity to develop Hyattsville for generations to come. We must focus on small, local business to drive innovation and opportunity in our community. Together we can build a local and sustainable future. Email: adam.j.alfano@gmail.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamalfano/ By authority of Adam Alfano, candidate for Ward 3 Councilmember
people and the businesses that make Hyattsville a wonderful place to live and continue to improve the lives of all residents.
SHERLYNA HANNA Age: 23 Day Job: Social worker at Synergy Family Services, Inc. in Hyattsville; Maryland Fellow for IGNITE National Community Involvement: State Advisory Board for Juvenile Services. Political campaigns, voter education, voter registration, advocated for propositions on the ballot. Volunteered at Magruder Park for the weekly food distribution. Volunteer with local geriatric facilities for virtual activities with their residents. Brand ambassador for locally owned businesses in Hyattsville. Statement to Voters: I am an engaged and motivated servant leader dedicated to my community. I have demonstrated a commitment to Hyattsville through philanthropy, psychotherapy, and advocacy. I am running to be your Ward 3 city councilmember to serve as an accessible and transparent advocate. As someone who has often been secluded from the table, I recognize the importance of an inclusive environment and will advocate for those who are underrepresented not only to have a seat at the table, but to also be a part of the decision-making process. As a reflection of my commitment to Hyattsville, I will be hosting “Tuesday Talks” every Tuesday until election day to talk to Ward 3 residents about the issues that matter. As a servant leader, I believe it is imperative to put the needs of the community first. My goal as councilmember is to listen to the needs of the community, provide opportunities for collaboration, and ensure effective solutions. Me postulo para ser su Concejal de la Ciudad del Distrito 3 para servir como un defensor accesible y transparente. Como alguien que a menudo ha sido apartado de la mesa, reconozco la importancia de un entorno inclusivo y abogaré por que aquellos que están subrepresentados no solo tengan un asiento en la mesa, sino
que también sean parte del proceso de toma de decisiones. Como líder de servicio, creo que es imperativo poner las necesidades de la comunidad en primer lugar. Mi objetivo como Concejal es escuchar las necesidades de la comunidad, brindar oportunidades de colaboración y garantizar soluciones efectivas. Website: www.hannaforhyattsville.com Facebook: www.facebook. com/Sherlyna-Hanna-forHyattsville-City-CouncilWard-3-105444114950408/ Instagram: @HannaForHyattsville TikTok: @HannaForHyattsville
ALEXANDER HOUCK Age: 32 Day Job: I serve as the safety and compliance specialist at DASH [Alexandria Transit Company] in Alexandria, Va. Community Involvement: This is my first foray into true Hyattsville-centric community involvement. I did serve as a Prince George’s County election judge for the 2020 general election at the Northwestern High School precinct and have been accepted into the Anacostia Watershed Stewards Academy, which I believe vitally important with Duck Pond Park and Northwest Branch of the Anacostia so close to my home and throughout the community. I have served as a university senator and two-year member of the senate’s ERC (Elections, Representation, & Governance) Committee for nearby University of Maryland, College Park. I am quickly learning about the different opportunities for civic service within the greater Hyattsville community. Statement to Voters: To my fellow residents of Hyattsville, my goal is not to win an election for personal gain. It is to serve the people of this community and my neighbors in a role where I believe I can be an advocate for change and provide good stewardship of the city’s future. I plan on raising my family here, so the changes and protections I seek — affordable housing, safe parks and roads, and economic prosperity for all among them — are challenges that many in
Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021 our community face and may not have the means or ability to advocate for themselves. I want the community to continue to thrive and develop but not at the expense of the diversity and cultural richness that already exists and make Hyattsville a great place to live. By entrusting me with your vote, you will get a councilmember who will always consider what is best for the community at-large without turning into another cookiecutter D.C. suburb. Hyattsville is now my heart and my home, and I want nothing more than to have the ability to work hard for us and our families.
JIMMY MCCLELLAN Age: 30 Day Job: Assistant director for College Park Scholars—Life Sciences, University of Maryland Community Involvement:
Hyattsville Code Compliance Committee, Route 1 Mask Match coordinator, Food bank distribution volunteer, Young Democrats of Maryland Pride Caucus chair, Social Justice Training Institute Statement to Voters: As a city of neighbors, Hyattsville has a distinct culture that is anchored in art, local business, and diverse communities. My partner and I relocated to Hyattsville in search of an inclusive community that values and uplifts its residents and creates opportunities for progress. I am running to serve as your councilmember because I believe in the power of service and the importance of representatives who genuinely care about and uplift the voices and experiences of the communities they serve. Connection and communication are at the center of my leadership philosophy. These values have been instilled in me as a former kindergarten teacher, an advocate, and from my mom and dad, a proud immigrant and a veteran. As a councilmember, I would apply these values to ensure the needs of our community are well represented. Serving our community has been a consistent priority for me since the day we arrived in Hyattsville. This has included
Page 19 working with the Hyattsville Code Compliance Committee, helping to launch Route 1 Mask Match, and talking to our neighbors while volunteering and engaging in city initiatives. These experiences allow me to deeply understand the issues in our city, the needs of our community, and the unique opportunity that the city council has to make the lives of our neighbors better. Four key priorities have emerged after listening to our community and reviewing resident surveys and feedback. As a councilmember, I would focus on: • Nurturing an Inclusive City • Championing Community Safety • Protecting Our Environment • Maintaining Hyattsville’s Character and Culture This is just the start of our conversation. I hope to hear about what matters most to you so that we can work together. Learn more about these priorities on www.jimmyforhyattsville.com and on Facebook and Instagram (@jimmyforhyattsville). Join the conversation by giving me a call at 301.615.2392. I hope to earn your vote and represent you on city council.
CHUCK PERRY Age: 53 Day Job: I own and operate my own business. I have two degrees in electrical engineering and a minor in applied mathematics. I am a member of the IEEE Eta Kappa Nu electrical engineering honor society. Community Involvement: I am currently a volunteer for Dogs Finding Dogs (a nonprofit). As a volunteer for Dogs Finding Dogs, I work with Leighann (the dog in the photo with me) to help people find their lost pets. I have also served on the Race and Equity Task Force, and I actively attend the Public Safety Task Force meetings of the Hyattsville City Police Department (HCPD). I am also very active in county level efforts with Progressive Maryland. Statement to Voters: I moved to Hyattsville about 10 years ago. About the first two weeks
of being a resident of Hyattsville, the HCPD would park in front of my house from time to time and simply watch. I even remember the unit number of the car, Unit 19, a K-9 unit. One time when I left on business, the patrol car followed me for a good distance outside the city limits of Hyattsville. I did file a complaint with Chief Holland, but it was quickly dismissed. This is just ONE incident among many involving the HCPD and the county police of Prince George’s. The HCPD arrest data for 201719 shows that the majority of people arrested by the HCPD are African American males. (You can see the complete analysis and data on my Facebook page in detail — www.facebook.com/ chuck.perry.31337.) I would like to see a leaner police department and the formation of a professional, full-time non-law enforcement department of licensed mental health professionals that would be specifically tasked to help the homeless and the mentally ill per the Austin, Tex., example (The Texas Tribune: rb.gy/cvdie5). I consider overpolicing to have a negative impact on the physical (not carbon neutral due to gas combustion patrol vehicles) and social environment of Hy-
Page 20 attsville. I am running for Ward 3 council for substantive change for the betterment of the whole community.
Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021 Most importantly, I want to hear from you. When this pandemic is over, I would like to hold monthly meetups, say hello in person, and listen to your ideas to make our city thrive. For now, please send your thoughts and concerns to james@wigleyforhyattsville.com, or contact me through my website, www. wigleyforhyattsville.com.
WARD 4 JAMES WIGLEY Age: 35 Day Job: Operations manager at the National Association of Bond Lawyers. I help manage my organization’s finances, streamline operations, and support bond sales that fund local public infrastructure projects. Community Involvement: I regularly attend city council meetings and recently advocated for traffic-calming measures on Oliver Street to make our neighborhood safer. I’m also a longtime supporter of the Capital Area Food Bank and the D.C. Legal Counsel for the Elderly. Statement to Voters: There is nowhere that my wife and I would rather call home than Hyattsville. Over the past year, I’ve been inspired to run for city council by talking to neighbors about their concerns and by regularly watching city council meetings. Hyattsville is a vibrant and diverse community, and its residents should prosper when the city does. As your city councilmember, I will advocate for safe, walkable streets; I will fight against disruptive cuts to our public transit; and I will make sure Hyattsville’s tax dollars go towards community programs like the city’s food distribution and activities for families and seniors. My number one priority will always be looking out for the residents of Ward 3. In my day job, I manage budgets, evaluate vendors, and support infrastructure deals. If elected, I would use these skills to ensure that Hyattsville is effectively using its funds to improve our daily lives and to meet our city’s long-term needs. One of those needs, especially here in Ward 3, is access to reliable public transit. This summer, Metro will close four stations in our area and cut off many residents from a system they rely on daily. WMATA’s budget for 2022 threatens to devastate our bus service as well. I will tirelessly oppose these reductions while also working to improve our city’s streets, sidewalks, and trails.
EDOUARD HABA Age: 39 Day Job: Child Abuse and Neglect, Custody and Divorce mediator at D.C. Superior Court Community Involvement: City council, Hyattsville Aging in Place, Hyattsville Corridor Community and St. Mark Catholic Church Statement to Voters: Dear neighbors and Ward 4 residents, I have decided to seek reelection, and I hereby ask for your vote. Since moving to Hyattsville in 2009, and joining the city council in 2013, a lot has changed, and more change is underway. These changes can be seen both in the makeup of our community and through economic and infrastructures developments. Key highlights from the last four years, with direct and visible impact on Ward 4, include: improved street lighting, ongoing Riverfront Project, almost completed Ager Road Green Street Project, revamped parking policy, traffic light at Nicholson Street and Queens Chapel Road, ongoing installation of new sidewalks, ongoing upgrades to Heurich Park. Upcoming improvements include, among others, repaving and upgrading our neighborhood streets, bathroom facility at Heurich Park, new Kaiser Permanente building. The progress we have made did not happen overnight. It took commitment, actions, perseverance, and working as a team with a shared vision. One example of this collaborative approach can be found in my work with the Hyattsville Corridor Community to get the traffic light at the intersection of Queens Chapel Road and Nicholson Street. While we continue to see economic growth and improve-
ments around us, I am also aware that they have brought more traffic to and given rise to the issue of affordability in our neighborhood and city. As someone who is a strong supporter of the notion of “aging in place,” and who also views Hyattsville as a city where young professionals and couples can settle, I am committed to pursuing policies in support of affordable housing and a safe, family-friendly and walkable/bikeable community. That is why I have been a constant advocate for sustainable and practical improvements to the quality of life in Ward 4, while working to make Hyattsville more inclusive and welcoming. I will continue to faithfully and steadily represent our neighborhood on the city council, so that we can continue to build on our progress.
WARD 5
options and price points, and investing in infrastructure that will make our community more environmentally friendly. I am also running to be your voice for Ward 5. As your councilmember, I will make sure that I listen to your concerns, needs, and that I represent those throughout my tenure. With your support, I will work to build a Hyattsville that allows us all to thrive. Me presento como consejal porque nos quiero ver prosperar a Hyattsville. Nuestra comunidad diversa necesita mantener su vitalidad y lo podemos lograr si investimos en nuestras pequeñas empresas/emprendedores, si aumentamos la diversidad de nuestras áreas comerciales, si mantenemos la diversidad de alojamientos y precios para el acceso a la propiedad, y si investimos en infraestructura que nos hará una comunidad más verde y sensible al medio ambiente. Yo me presento para consejal para ser su vos para ward 5. Como su consejal, yo me aseguraré de escuchar sus ideas, necesidades, y de representarlo sin falta durante mi término. Con su apoyo, yo trabajaré para construir un Hyattsville que nos permite a todos salir adelante.
DANIEL AMADOR Age: 29 Day Job: Daniel works as a management consultant and provides federal government clients with advice and implementation support to address operational challenges, use data to improve outcomes, and increase accountability. He is passionate about improving how the federal government operates and delivers services to constituents. He wants to use this experience as councilmember to enable Hyattsville to better serve its citizens. Community Involvement: Daniel enjoys giving his time to support organizations that advance representation of underserved communities in college and corporate America, that advance human rights, and that strengthen families. He has provided pro bono management consulting services to several nonprofits in the DMV and currently serves on the board of the Foster and Adoptive Parent Advocacy Center in D.C. He also mentors several Latino young professionals. Statement to Voters: I am running for office because I want to see Hyattsville thrive. Our diverse community needs to maintain its vibrancy by investing in our small businesses, diversifying our business districts, maintaining a variety of housing
KURT BRINTZENHOFE Age: 61 Day Job: Retired, currently a part-time graduate student at University of Maryland conducting independent research in social psychology. Finalizing my book that documents the analysis and results. Education includes a bachelor’s (1982) and graduate degree (1990) in mathematics, and graduate certificate in engineering cybersecurity (2014). Former principal staff at The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (1991-2008). Transitioned to federal government to work and finally retire as an acquisition specialist and senior test engineer (2009-16). I am a Navy Reserve retired senior officer (veteran). Community Involvement: Regular public participant of city council meetings since September 2019. I provide weekly yard care and outside maintenance to my senior neighbor, and coordinate with immediate neighbors in maintaining city code requirements.
Statement to Voters: I am running for the WARD 5 council position because I believe improving Hyattsville community involvement and verbal interaction is important. The city recommends “Speak Up HVL” (hyattsville-md.granicusideas. com/meetings), an online forum for community comments on council agenda items. Whether through “Speak Up HVL” and/or neighborhood representatives who report to their councilmembers, we need to improve participation with the council, within the community, and require responsiveness from WARD 5 councilmembers. Such improvement may be made through participatory budgeting (Nov. 2, 2020, city council meeting agenda discussion item). New York City and many other cities have been doing this for over a decade (council.nyc.gov/ carlos-menchaca/on-to-the-nextphase-of-pbnyc/). Participatory budgeting could provide WARD funding to address identified issues or initiatives such as educational opportunities, environmental sustainment, or affordable housing. Its effectiveness requires full community involvement, diverse representation, and careful planning through community interaction to meet our community’s needs and unique culture. Building on this, I agree with the city’s position on police legislation reform as was scheduled to be voted on March 24, but also think the next step is to improve positive community interaction with our police force beginning with coordination through Ms. Adrienne Augustus (city media relations/mental health programs manager) and our police chief. Our police are part of our community, we should help them continue thinking of us as part of theirs.
SOPHIE GORMAN ORIANI Age: 29 Day Job: Montessori toddler teacher, St. Jerome Academy; Associate editor, Hyattsville Life & Times Community Involvement: I am a former co-lead at the Hyatt Park Garden, and have volunteered with the HY-Swap, a free exchange of children’s clothes and goods, for many years.
Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021 Statement to Voters: I am running for city council because too often, when people say “Hyattsville,” they don’t even think about Ward 5. I want to make sure the people of Ward 5 get the representation and advocacy they deserve. It’s important for a councilmember to be deeply engaged with the residents of her ward, and I will work hard to make your voice heard by the city. Some concerns I’ve heard from residents include policing, affordable housing, traffic safety, and responsible development. I have reported on city council meetings for two years and have seen very little discussion of how these issues affect Ward 5 in particular. We can and should do better for our residents. As a mother, I bring a different perspective to the table. Women are underrepresented on city council. I want my children and your children to see a city council on which women have a strong voice. I have also lived in three different countries, which has shown me how the same problem can be approached in many ways. My greatest strength as a
Page 21
candidate is my commitment to our community. Four generations of my extended family live in Ward 5, so I’m here for the long haul. You can count on me to put Ward 5 and its residents first!
PATRICIA PAGE As of press time, the Hyattsville Life & Times was unable to contact Patricia Page.
ROMMEL SANDINO Age: 35 Day Job: Community organizer Community Involvement: Rommel Sandino has called Hyattsville his home for the last 17 years, and it has witnessed him grow from a teenager attending University of Maryland to his current role
as a parent raising a beautiful big family. The diversity of families and places in the city is what inspires and motivates him to get involved, such as: participating in his children’s PTA at Hyattsville Elementary and supporting the fun activities; advocating the city to expand democracy by enfranchising noncitizen residents in municipal elections; and working with neighbors and city officials to promote safety by implementing reasonable traffic measures in the neighborhood, among others. Statement to Voters: He has decided to run with much honor and joy to become the next Ward 5 councilmember to work on behalf of all Ward 5 residents, including children, families and seniors. The public health pandemic has impacted all of us, but it has disproportionately impacted families of color, and as such, he is committed to ensure that city services and resources to build beyond COVID are accessible, inclusive, and reflect the diverse needs of the community. Some of his priorities are to expand accessibility to city programs and services by
reflecting the diversity in the languages throughout the city and exploring equitable technological access; support working families with affordable before- and after-school childcare and programs; support and expand seniors programs and services; work with our schools to make sure that all the children have enough to thrive; ensure that all families have equitable access to COVID-19 testing and vaccination; support safe affordable housing; and work as a good steward of the environment so that our future generations can enjoy a healthy and vibrant
Sophie
city and world. He is a passionate freedom fighter and social movement builder who believes in transformative justice and building power to win dignity and justice so that Black, Brown and Immigrant families can live free and are able to thrive. He immigrated from Nicaragua at the age of 4 and used to be a DREAMer until 2011 when he received his U.S. citizenship. He is a millennial.
G ORMAN O RIANI
Let’s Give Ward 5 the Attention We Deserve!
As a mother, teacher, and journalist, I have the heart, the will, and the know-how to do what is right for Ward 5. I will give a voice to your needs. Contact us to sign up for my virtual town hall meeting on April 28th! smgoforward5 ❖ SMGOforWard5@gmail.com Authorized by Anne-Marie Gorman, Treasurer
Kurt Brintzenhofe, Hyattsville City Council WARD 5 candidate, is campaigning for a systematic evaluation and implementation of participatory budgeting to benefit the community of Hyattsville Participatory budgeting is a democratic process where community members decide how to spend part of a public budget. It empowers the community to make change.
Defend and exercise your Constitutional First Amendment rights - become informed peaceful community social activists. As a community, push the Hyattsville City Council to fully investigate participatory budgeting in a systematic manner, and through diverse community involvement find options which participatory budgeting may offer to improve the educational opportunities for the children of Hyattsville. See 2 November 2020 City Council mtg Agenda Packet (item HCC-99-FY21) at https://hyattsville-md.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx
1871 to 2021: Liberty, justice, and equality for all - 150 years and still trying 1871 Ulysses S. Grant Indian Peace Medal, Image Courtesy of Stacks & Bowers Galleries: https://auctions.stacksbowers.com
“Power concedes nothing without a demand. It never did and it never will.” “If there is no struggle, there is no progress.”
- Frederick Douglass -
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
- Nelson Mandela -
Paid for and Authorized by Kurt Brintzenhofe, WARD 5 Candidate for Hyattsville City Council Definitions for “liberty”, “justice”, and “equal protection” may be found at : https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/
Background: Mural at Hyattsville Middle School Painted by Tramaine Wilkes. Photo by Kurt Brintzenhofe
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Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
Page 23
SECONDHAND NEWS
Local actress, drama professor finds ‘Joy’ in DIY design projects By Lauren Flynn Kelly
W
hile staying at home during the COVID-19 pandemic, Denise J. Hart has spent the last year bringing joy — it is her middle name, after all — to other people’s homes. In March 2020, the busy actress/playwright/professor was in Los Angeles working with Amazon Studios when her trip was cut short, and she returned home for what few people suspected would be months spent at home. That’s when it hit her: “This spirit or this energy just came over me and, not to be morbid, but it said, if you were taken out by COVID, what would you regret that you had not done?” The answer was “more design.” As a tenured professor in Howard University’s theatre arts department — and an actress whose TV credits include “The Wire”— Hart is familiar with the importance of scenery. While helping a niece sell her house in Washington, D.C., she’d brightened up the space and got the attention of the real estate agent, who at the time suggested she do home staging. But that was 2019, and Hart wasn’t ready to take the leap into professional design. Then the pandemic struck, and a homeowner needed to transform a cluttered basement into a college dorm for her remotelearning daughter. Another client needed to spiff up and reorganize her home office, while yet anoth-
Inside the designer’s studio: Denise J. Hart turned a section of her Hyattsville basement into a DIY design studio for her YouTube channel. COURTESY OF DENISE J. HART
er wanted to turn a back porch into a cozy, curated getaway den. These projects and more are documented on Hart’s YouTube channel, “Thrifty Fly DIY with Denise Joy.” In Season 1 of “DIY DUO Redesign,” you’ll see her knack for transforming small spaces, using bold colors and prints and incor-
porating thrifted items on a budget. Physical contact was minimized, as clients had to perform a few tasks on their own and film themselves reacting to the new space. I was shocked when Hart told me she’s a production team of one, and that she taught herself video editing while taking walks
and listening to instructional YouTube videos on her phone. Her channel also has tons of DIY tips and tricks for indoor and outdoor spaces, including how to build a custom cedar table and garden bed. My favorite episode might be “Thrift Haul,” where you’ll get a vicarious thrill as Hart showcases her favorite thrift store finds, like a mid-century captain’s chair she brought back to life with some teak oil. (Thanks for the tip!) With a fondness for repurposing, Hart said she loves to shop clients’ homes, scour local secondhand stores like Value Village and Community Forklift, and search for like-new pieces on Facebook Marketplace. She’s also thrilled that Will’s Decorating has relocated to Hyattsville, making it convenient for her to get some of her secondhand finds reupholstered. “If I don’t immediately fall in love with something, my philosophy is, if I go back and it’s still here, it’s mine. But if I immediately fall in love with it, I will get it on the spot,” she said of thrifting. Even if she isn’t looking for something specific, she’ll purchase a piece in anticipation that it will fit with a
future project. On her channel, Hart describes her design style as “Afro-boho minimalism, a little retro chic and modern vintage.” Hart told me she believes in “a curated environment that is a layering of items and things that people truly love.” And it doesn’t have to fit a certain aesthetic, like the farmhouse style made popular by HGTV’s “Fixer Upper.” Hart also wanted her new career to honor the history of her Somali ancestors, and when she stumbled upon the word “furaha” — which in Swahili translates to “joyful gladness” — she felt that perfectly described her goal of infusing joy in everything that she does. While her fulltime career is at Howard, the goal-oriented Hart believes her foray into design is helping her put the building blocks in place for a fulfilling early retirement. Lauren Flynn Kelly is the HL&T’s thrifting and repurposing columnist.
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Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
BOOKSTORE FROM PAGE 1
based book supplier Frontline Book Publishing, speaks to owner Deena-Marie Beresford’s vision of encouraging people to seek a better understanding of themselves and the world through books. “We have the whole Black Lives Matter movement happening, we have COVID-19 ... so people’s lives have changed so drastically,” Beresford said in an interview. “A lot of people are working from home, so that brings more opportunities for reading.” The bookstore carries a literary collection curated by Beresford, who has over 25 years of experi-
ence as a librarian specializing in collection development — a role that entails assembling and managing library materials. She holds a master’s degree from Pratt University in New York and previously managed the south branches of Prince George’s County library system. The shop’s collection currently includes historical novels, biographies from prominent Black authors, and books on spirituality and feminism. Alongside the literary collection, Beresford offers imported goods, including carved African masks, calabash bags and leather slippers from Trinidad, a colorful array of clothing, incense, candles, woven baskets,
and handmade jewelry. Beresford brought back many of these cultural artifacts and accessories from her travels to Pan-African countries, and in particular, Ethiopia. She said that she scouts for items that she believes will help people learn about culture. “If they’re of African descent, they can connect to clothing, spices, oils and jewelry — things that make them comfortable with self … and people like the idea of things having come from abroad,” she said. For people who have no personal ties to Pan-African culture, Beresford’s warm demeanor and openness are enough to engage passersby who step inside the
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bookstore, said longtime Hyattsville resident Jennie Reinhardt. While on her daily walk around the neighborhood this past February, Reinhardt happened upon Frontline Trading Post and perused the window; Beresford and her husband invited her in. Reinhardt came away from the shop, content with her purchase of a book and a basket. “It would be a great store to shop for holiday gifts in December. I hope they are around then,” she said. Beresford explained that foot traffic to the bookstore has been slow since she opened, suggesting that the pandemic has had a significant impact. Despite these circumstances, she enthusiastically interacts with returning customers and passersby who are drawn to the shop out of curiosity. Beresford is eager to talk about her cultural merchandise. “People come in and everybody wants to share — everybody has a story,” Beresford said. “And you know, I’m a librarian: We’re interested in sociology, anthropology, and cultures and people. It’s aligned with my profession, and it’s also aligned with me enjoying people.” The bookstore’s top floor has a dedicated reading room for children, which will open to the public once social distancing requirements are lifted. In the meantime, Beresford offers a children’s story time on the main floor every Sunday at 4 p.m., which is open to all. This summer, Beresford plans to expand her offerings to include dried spices, fresh juices and co-
Alongside the literary collection, Beresford offers imported goods, including carved African masks, calabash bags and leather slippers from Trinidad, a colorful array of clothing, incense, candles, woven baskets, and handmade jewelry. conuts that will be displayed in a little cart by the storefront outside. A close friend of hers, Susan Jackson, who often helps out in the shop, echoed Beresford’s enthusiasm about transforming the bookstore into a place for the community to gather and learn together. “She has a personality like no other, and she’s very knowledgeable about pretty much everything that the store contains. I see her going a very long way in the future with this,” said Jackson. Maristela Romero is an intern with the Hyattsville Life & Times.
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Page 25
Officer takes a seat, makes the news By Kit Slack A Hyattsville police officer made national news March 13 by sitting on the floor of a gas station convenience store. A photo snapped at the Sunoco gas station on the East-West Highway shows the officer sitting cross-legged, wrists dangling over his knees, with tattoos peeking out of his uniform sleeves. Was he meditating? No. Officer Edgar Andrickson-Franco said that he was actually doing what he has done on most days during his three years as a police officer: making “an attempt to understand and to level with” an agitated person. AdricksonFranco said that this tactic has stuck with him since his training days at the police academy. He and his partner, Officer Mancini Gaskill, received a call to come to the Sunoco because a customer in the store was irate and confused. An employee at the Sunoco thought that the man might have been under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Andrickson-Franco said that
Officer Edgar Andrickson-Franco
JULIA NIKHINSON
when he and Gaskill arrived at the store, “I noticed the gentleman in the middle of the store pacing back and forth … he was stuttering.” Rather than answer questions that the officers asked, the man repeated the questions or said something abusive.
The officers called in medical support and worked to gain the man’s confidence, eventually obtaining his cell phone. Andrickson-Franco used the phone to redial the last-called number, and connected with someone who gave him a number for the agitated man’s cousin.
When emergency medical services arrived, the man refused care. Andrickson-Franco and Gaskill waited about 90 minutes for the man’s cousin to pick him up. As they waited, the man dropped his belongings and sank to the tile floor. Andrickson-Franco dropped down on the tile floor too, a few feet away. His partner snapped a picture. The picture went viral, and the news spread around the country. MSNBC interviewed Andrickson-Franco, live. When the Hyattsville Life & Times asked Andrickson-Franco what experiences or training prompted his approach, he first credited his upbringing. “Whether I’m a cop or not, we are all human beings, and we all have bad days,” he said. Adrienne Augustus, media relations coordinator and mental health programs manager for the Hyattsville City Police Department, said that she often hears similar stories from officers, and notes the compassionate and respectful language that Hyattsville’s officers use when they talk about the
people they encounter in their work. She said that she has been encouraging officers to snap pictures of positive interactions with the community so she can share them on the department’s Facebook page. According to Augustus, the man’s family expressed gratitude to the officers for their handling of the situation, and said a medication mixup may have led to the incident. The day after the incident, Andrickson-Franco was one of a group of officers who participated in a mental health first aid training. According to Augustus, other upcoming department trainings cover domestic violence response, posttraumatic stress disorder and autism awareness. And while Andrickson-Franco was not meditating on March 13, he will have an opportunity to take up the practice this month. Trainings for Hyattsville police in April will introduce officers to meditation and yoga. The department will also offer a resilience support program that includes 21 days of morning and evening reflections.
ZERO WASTE OF TIME
Reuse, recycle, repurpose in the garden By Juliette Fradin
D
id you start a pandemic garden last year? I sure did, and I developed an obsession about growing my own food. Studies have shown that gardening improves health: You are closer to nature, you exercise, you eat a healthier diet. Growing your own garden is one of the best steps you can take to start living in a more sustainable way — at least most of the time. I quickly realized that there’s a surprising amount of waste involved — think plastic, plants, seeds, natural resources. Here are some ideas to be more eco-friendly in the garden.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT TOOLS AND CONTAINERS Repurposing or reusing things you already own is easy and cost effective. Compostable/biodegradable pots are great, but they are designed to be single use and require energy to manufacture, package and transport. For seedlings, you can use: • Toilet rolls: Make four 1-inch cuts vertically around the bottom of the tube and fold them in. • Newspaper rolls: Transplant your seedlings right into the garden (the paper will decompose naturally in the soil). Most printing inks are now soy based and safe to use. • Aluminium cans, plastic clamshell (and
You can repurpose what you have in your recycle bin into plant labels and containers. JULIETTE FRADIN PHOTOGRAPHY
similar) takeout containers: Make sure there are holes in the bottom or side to drain excessive water. I found that eggshells and egg boxes are difficult to fill, and the boxes are very absorbent. But they sure look cute. When you need to transplant seedlings into bigger pots, use big yoghurt containers, juice (or milk) square bottles (cut an opening on a side) or plastic milk jugs. Cut off the lids of your bigger, clear plastic bottles and place them over your seeds to create a mini greenhouse. For planters: • Olive oil metal tins: Don’t toss those big tins that olive oil came in. Instead, upcycle them by cutting the tops off, washing the tins out
thoroughly and using them as planters. • I’ve seen worn-out old hiking boots, toilets, sinks, bathtubs, buckets and other such castoffs used as planters. Repurpose what you have. Browse Craigslist, Freecycle, Facebook Marketplace or the alleys at Community Forklift to find used gardening products and equipment, such as pots, gardening tools, compost, chicken manure and more. You can also borrow. If you’re looking for plant labels, try cut up yoghurt containers, wooden popsicle sticks (ask your friends to save them for you), old bamboo toothbrushes and hand-painted rocks.
MAKE THE MOST OF RENEWABLE RESOURCES Don’t let natural fertilizers around you go to waste! Make banana tea by soaking your banana peels, which have very high levels of potassium, in water for a week. The liquid will enrich your flower and vegetable beds by giving your plants a happy nutrient boost. You can then dry the skins, grind them up and mix them in your soil to use as fertiliser. Speaking of tea, you can mix your leftover tea leaves into the soil to make it richer. Also, urine is the absolute best to boost your seedlings. It is very high in nitrogen and an excellent liquid fertilizer (and compost accelerator). Dilute at a 10:1 ratio and apply to the root zone of fruiting plants
like tomatoes, peppers and eggplant, and to leafy crops like cabbage, broccoli, spinach and lettuce, once a month. If you don’t collect rain water yet, reuse cooking water. The water you use to cook your vegetables still has lots of good nutrients and is very beneficial to your garden plants (once it has cooled down). Think about saving some of your grey water, the water that comes from your sink and showers. Stick a bucket in the shower to collect water while you’re waiting for the hot.
THINK LOCALLY There is a Facebook group, Route One Corridor Gardeners, you can join for tips, tools and seed exchanges. If you wish to buy locally, Glut in Mount Rainier has a great selection of seeds, Denchfield Nursery is based in Hyattsville, with Hampton Nursery in nearby Landover Hills. Homestead Gardens is a little bit further in Davidsonville, but has a wide selection. Or visit a farmers market like Paint Branch’s in College Park on Saturdays 7 a.m. to noon, and Anne Arundel County Farmers Market in Annapolis on Sundays 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. If you already have more seeds then you can use, consider starting up a little seed library in your front yard so you can share with your neighbors. Juliette Fradin is the Hyattsville Life & Times sustainability columnist.
Page 26
Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
CROWN VIC FROM PAGE 1
to its Ford Crown Victoria police cars. This large, V8-powered, rear-wheel drive, body-on-frame sedan that struggles to average 18 mpg is the best-selling Police Pursuit Vehicle (PPV) of all time. When production stopped in 2011, many police departments (including Fairfax, Virginia’s) bought as many as they could get, to drive as long as they could. “Getting promoted to detective was one of the proudest days of my life,” said Robert Althoff, chief of police in nearby Brentwood. “The only disadvantage was that I had to give up my Crown Vic marked police cruiser and drive my personal car.” Christopher Holland, deputy director of the Maryland State Police Motor Vehicle Division, agrees that cops love them. “We only have about 50 or 60 Crown Vics left, but whenever I rotate one out of service, the officers always hate to let them go.” How can a design that originated in the 1980s still have many economic, ergonomic and even environmental advantages over newer cars? Continuous evolution. The Michigan State Police tests PPVs for speed over the quarter mile and for the time it takes to accelerate to 100 mph, and for braking, handling, fuel economy and ergonomics. In 1990, the large Chevy Caprice PPV was the first car ever to win all categories. But it was discontinued in 1996, as GM shifted to manufacturing SUVs. The Crown Vic had 15 more years after that to achieve its Mercedes comfort
The Ford Crown Victoria, a large, V8-powered, rear-wheel drive, body-on-frame sedan that struggles to average 18 mpg, is the best-selling Police Pursuit Vehicle of all time. JULIA NIKHINSON
and Toyota reliability, regularly reaching 225,000+ miles. Their only real weakness is they’re bad in the snow. But how can towns tolerate the Crown Vic’s fuel costs and pollution? Well, fleet owners, unlike individual owners, can reduce costs and waste by constantly recycling and reusing their wrecked or broken-down cars and the equipment that may only fit those specific vehicles. If you consider those efficiencies, and then take into consideration the resources used to manufacture a new vehicle, maintaining a Crown Vic fleet starts to look almost like a green alternative. Many have a second life as well, recycled as taxis. If the University of Maryland’s aging queens represent the best execution of an old paradigm, the HCPD’s electric and hybrid vehicles point to the future. Hyattsville recently spent approximately $330,000 for six Ford Interceptor PPVs
based on the popular Ford Explorer SUV. Three are hybrids. “I am a fanatical advocate for solar power and electric vehicles,” declared Sgt. Richard Harnett. In 2017, this EV-angelist received a grant from the Maryland Department of Energy to test if an all-electric Chevy Bolt could be adapted for police work. He also acquired two all-electric Zero brand motorcycles. “The first worry was range anxiety,” he said. “But the average HCPD car only runs about 50 to 60 miles a shift, and Bolt gets at least 200 miles a charge.” The Bolt also accelerates faster than most other police cars, but is programmed to top out at 90 mph. Not a problem. Many urban police departments are concluding that the physical and financial risks of high-speed chases usually outweigh the possible benefits. Harnett believes the greatest advantages
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of electric police vehicles are dramatically reduced air pollution, and lower fuel and maintenance costs. “Police cars spend most of their time idling,” he said. “That can use up to [a] quarter tank an hour. Gas can cost $50 to $60 a shift. Charging the Bolt costs about $7.50, and running its lights for an hour only costs about 5 miles in range. In four years, the only maintenance has been rotating the tires and replacing the small, 12-volt battery.” Harnett admits the Bolt is just too small for general police work, but believes that the electric motorcycles are far superior to gas models. They get 160 miles per charge and are extremely fast and almost silent. Harnett is optimistic that the department’s new hybrid SUVs will have much lower lifetime fuel costs. But hybrids require almost the same maintenance as their gas counterparts. In addition, drilling the holes to install the police equipment can create carbon monoxide leaks. The Austin, Tex., police department pulled 400 Ford SUVs off the road until the company addressed this issue. Let’s hope that Ford keeps its Explorer in production long enough to work all the bugs out and provide a good return on taxpayers’ dollars. Out on the streets, only the strong survive. The big 1990 Chevy Caprice was a great strong police car that’s completely extinct. (The 2011-17 compact Caprice PPVs are an insult to its memory.) Thirty-one years later, the venerable Crown Vic Police Interceptor proves that if a decent design is produced long enough, it can evolve into greatness.
Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
Page 27
COMMUNITY CALENDAR Send your event information to Kit Slack at kit@hyattsvillelife.com.
B
elow you’ll find community events sponsored by local nonprofits and artists. All information is current as of April 6. Spring is here, and so are the vaccines! You’ll notice more in-person programming this month, although many events are still virtual.
Ongoing
An online art exhibition, “David C. Driskell’s Students,” features works by former students of David C. Driskell, professor emeritus of art at the University of Maryland, College Park, who died in April 2020. The exhibit contains works from over 30 artists. driskellcenter.umd. edu/david-c-driskells-students
April 12 & 26
WRITING TO WELLNESS: Poetry & Discussion for Navigating Trauma. A discussionbased workshop designed for writers to use poetry as a tool for healing when navigating trauma. Hosted by DMV-poet C. Thomas. $5. 6 to 7:30 p.m. 301.699.1819. www.joesmovement.org/listofevents
April 17
The Bookworm Garden: How Does Your Garden Grow? Little ones and their caregivers can learn, create and grow together while taking a closer look at what is blooming in Riversdale House Museum’s beautiful gardens. $5/resident child, ages 2-6. 11 a.m. to noon. 301.699.2255. Registration required by April 12. www. pgparks.com Engineering 101: Pollution Protection. The College Park Aviation Museum challenges students ages 12 to 17 to think like engineers to create and test an air filtration system to stop pollution. $3/residents. 11 a.m. to noon. Virtual. 301.864.6029. Register online at www.collegeparkaviationmuseum.com.
April 24
The University Hills Area Civic Association invites you to join in a Conversation with Candidates for Hyattsville’s mayor and Ward 3 city councilmember. 1 to 3 p.m. University Hills Duck Pond Pavilion, 3400 Stanford St. Rain date April 25, same time and location.
April 24
Route 1 Corridor Conversations presents The Bard In April. Join Hyattsvillian Janet Griffin, newly retired director of public programs and artistic producer for the Folger Theatre, and celebrate Shakespeare’s birthday with a look at what goes into producing a theatre classic. Free. 2 to 3:30 p.m. To register, visit HyattsvilleAgingInPlace.org/events.
April 24 – May 9
Route One Communities Care (GRC/ROCC) Spring Art Sale. Your purchases benefit the Greater Riverdale Cares & Route One Communities Care initiative to support restaurants during this challenging time and residents facing food insecurity in our area. Browse the gallery for unique art created by local artists from Maryland and D.C. go.dojiggy. io/roccspring
April 28
Windsock Wine Down: Yappy Hour. You’ve heard the saying “when pigs fly,” but have you ever thought about when lions fly? Join the College Park Aviation Museum for a free virtual tour of their newest exhibit “Tails of Flight,” featuring Gilmore the lion and College Park
Airport’s own Aero the dog, and learn about the impact animals have had in aviation. Free. 6 to 8 p.m. 301.864.6029. Register online at www.collegeparkaviationmuseum.com.
Recurring Acoustic blues jam sessions have resumed, outside in the parking lot behind Archie’s Barbershop, weather permitting. 4502 Hamilton St., Hyattsville. Saturdays 1 to 3 p.m. acousticblues.com Art Works Now offers virtual weekly art classes in six-week sessions. Kids’ classes include portrait painting, photography, and tie-dye. Classes for adults include linoleum printing and sketching. Wheel-throwing pottery offered in person in a small group. Registration is open now for summer camp, which kids can attend virtually, in person, or in a hybrid mix of the two. 301.454.0808 www. artworksnow.org Poetry open mic every Thursday at Busboys and Poets. $5. 9 to 11 p.m. 5331 Baltimore Ave. 301.779.2787. busboysandpoets.com
Rise + Rhyme Monday mornings at Busboys and Poets. An engaging storytelling and performance series introducing children ages 5 and under to the performing arts. $5 suggested donation. 9:30 to 11 a.m. 5331 Baltimore Ave. 301.779.2787. busboysandpoets.com Pyramid Atlantic, the nonprofit arts center at 4318 Gallatin St., is open to the public and offers online, one-on-one and two-on-one in-studio classes in a wide range of techniques including tin can papermaking, bookbinding and lithography. $40 to $300. Hyattsville residents receive 15% discounts. pyramidatlanticartcenter.org Riverdale Park Farmers Market is open every Thursday from 3 to 6:30 p.m. in the parking lot near the Riverdale MARC Station, 4650 Queensbury Rd. For more information, contact Jim Coleman at rpkfarmmkt@gmail. com. facebook.com/RPFMarket Three Little Birds Sewing Co. offers virtual classes for a full range of experience and abilities, including classes on bad words embroidery and how to sew your own pair of espadrilles. $40-$175. 202.246.5396. Threelittlebirdssewingco.com
Page 28
Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
MISS FLORIBUNDA
Salvaging seedling sabotage Dear Miss Floribunda, I can really relate to the letter writer of a couple of months ago who had a cat that pounced on her plants. She seemed to worry only about her cat, but frankly my concern is more for plant victims. In past years, I’ve always started quite a variety of vegetables from seed indoors very early, and always had a steady supply of homegrown food all spring and summer. However, last January, in a moment of madness, I took in a pair of half-grown kittens that were going to be put down if a home couldn’t be found for them. I’ve named them Hokey and Pokey because their feet, right and left, have stepped in and out of peat pots that have not only been turned round but also shaken all about. Plus anything on window sills has been knocked to the floor and used in kitten soccer games. A few pots of spinach were about all that came through in good enough condition to plant outdoors in March. However, not a single one of my tomato or eggplant seedlings has survived. This is a problem for me, because it would be very expensive to buy as many tomato plants from a nursery as I usually have from seed. Advise, please.
germinate at temperatures as low as 35 F. I would recommend planting oak leaf varieties of lettuce now, because they are quick growing and are less likely to turn bitter when temperatures warm. Hart Seed Company offers a bok choy and also a red romaine lettuce that is highly heat resistant. Bok choys, tat choys and broccoli sprouts from Botanical Interests and High Mowing seed companies can be planted from seed now and have leaves ready to harvest in 30 days. There are radish varieties that will develop in fewer than 25 days. Burpee and Botanical Interests offer the Cherry Belle radish, which is ready to eat in only 22 days, and Burpee carries the Early Scarlet Globe, which can develop in as few as 20 days. It also offers the highly heat-resistant Rover radish. Beets and potatoes can be planted in early- to mid-April, and corn in late April. While according to the National Gardening Association planting guide, our area is frost free from April 16 to Oct. 17, our soil temperatures usually don’t reach 65 F till May. Tomatoes and cucumbers can germinate in soils as cool
UNSPLASH
as 60 F, but no cooler. Take hope, however. One of my newest gardening friends, Ronnie Pomidoro, has had very good luck planting from seed by choosing varieties of vegetables that grow very quickly in warm weather — even tomatoes! Her favorite tomato is Black Prince, from Southern Exposure Seed Exchange. She likes the size, which is about as large as a tennis ball, because it doesn’t crack. Last year she planted seed
Having Kittens on Kennedy Street Dear Having Kittens, Oh, I feel your pain. I have brought up kittens in pairs, and they do tend to get into mischief. The worst were two waifs, Hansel and Gretel, that I accused of being partners in crime after they pulverized my prized collection of pysanky Easter eggs. I even threatened to make them into matching mittens. But they knew that “everything is forgiven kittens” and were impenitent and unperturbed. With time, they became calm and cozy, the equivalent of drowsy throw cushions curled up on my sofa. However, if you want a garden you’ve planted from seed this year, time is precisely what you’re short on. It is still cool enough to plant some heat-resistant varieties of lettuce and other early crops, and it will soon be warm enough to plant seeds of most other kinds of vegetables outside. The ideal soil temperature for planting most seeds is 65 to 72 F, and you can get a compost thermometer to test. As I’m sure you know, seeds of peas, lettuce, spinach and all the brassica family (includes cabbage, broccoli and mustards),
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in May and had fruit by mid-July. Her plants produced well up until the first hard frost in November. She shared their abundance widely, and many people can vouch for the delicious flavor of Black Prince. Other gardeners recommend the similar Early Choice tomato offered by Hart Seeds, and Southern Exposure’s Neptune tomato, both of which produce fruit in 67 days and are especially tolerant of our very hot summers. Of course, cherry and grape tomatoes are known for growing quickly and producing bountifully within two months — and some varieties within six weeks. Most
hot peppers develop rapidly from seed, and the Sweet Chocolate bell pepper, available from Southern Exposure and from Reimer Seeds, is ready for the table in less than two months if given plenty of water. Summer squash prefers to be planted directly from seed, and even though your kittens prevented you from getting a head start on your eggplant, there are Japanese varieties that develop very quickly. You can plant and harvest beans and cucumbers all summer with succession plantings. As I’m sure you’re aware, they are best harvested young and this too prolongs the growing season. This is as good a place as any to recommend starting a fall garden; you can plant as early as mid-July for broccoli and as late as September for radishes. My fall-garden expert, Giorgic Vegeberghe, plants his Brussels sprouts as early as June 1. You can wait till mid-July to plant broccoli, turnips and leeks and as late as September to plant radishes. Please check the new and improved Hyattsville Horticultural Society website, hyattsvillehorticulture.org, for information on many topics. We hope to resume meetings soon. Miss Floribunda is the Hyattsville Life & Times garden columnist. You may email questions to floribundav@gmail.com.
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Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
MUDDLE FROM PAGE 1
900 students to 1,200. Jason Washington, director of public-private partnerships for county schools, through which Hyattsville Middle School and five other county schools will be rapidly built, said he looks forward to the day when students get to school, see the brand new building, and understand that their community invests in them because they matter. He emphasized steep penalties that the developers will pay if the building is delivered late. Dan Muth, head of Hyattsville’s volunteer Educational Facilities Task Force, wrote in an email, “It is wonderful that the community will be getting a new middle school.” He pointed out, however, that next year’s seventh and eighth graders won’t benefit from it. “We need to make absolutely sure that we aren’t costing them a credible middle school experience in a rush to simply find a place to house them.”
SWING SPACE SHUFFLE As recently as late July 2020, the school district had no public plan to move students off-site while the new building was under construction. During a presentation at a Dec. 8, 2020, PTSO meeting, the school community learned of a plan to split the students be-
tween two sites; some students would share space with the Robert Goddard Montessori specialty program in Seabrook, while others would go to a nowvacant elementary school in Bowie. Meetings to discuss the details of that plan were postponed or cancelled until the second week of March, when the school district, through town hall invitations to the Montessori and middle school communities, announced a different plan: The Montessori school would move, permanently, to the empty elementary school in Bowie, vacating their school building so that Hyattsville Middle School students could stay together while their school was rebuilt. Robert Goddard Montessori’s PTA launched a vigorous campaign against moving to Bowie, citing longer commute times for young children, and space constraints, including the lack of a gym or storage areas for Montessori materials, at the Bowie site. The campaign included nightly virtual community meetings, and culminated in a rally on the afternoon of March 17. At a virtual town hall that evening, administrators including Dr. Helen Coley, chief of school support and school leadership for county schools, told the Montessori school community that the decision to move the school to its own site was a re-
Page 29 sult of the Montessori school community’s continued reluctance to share space with other schools and programs. After Robert Goddard French Immersion School left the shared site in 2014, the Montessori school PTA had objected to Glenarden Woods Elementary School moving into its place. Several sources have told the Hyattsville Life & Times that members of the Montessori PTA had been quietly organizing opposition to sharing space with Hyattsville Middle School as well. On March 18, at a town hall for the middle school, less than 24 hours after telling the Montessori community it would have to move, the school district returned to its prior plan to split Hyattsville Middle School students between Seabrook and Bowie, and keep the Montessori school in its building. The details of the split became public for the first time. Sixth graders and students in the middle school’s auditionbased arts program would go to Seabrook with the Montessori students. Seventh and eighth graders not in the arts program would take the longer trip to the smaller school in Bowie. The middle school PTSO, and similar organizations at four elementary schools that feed into the middle school, sent a joint statement of protest to the school district on March 23. The
letter objected both to the commute times — some of which the school district forecast to be longer than an hour — and to the perceived preference given to the interests of students at Robert Goddard Montessori, a lottery-based specialty program school, over Hyattsville Middle School, a Title I neighborhood school, where more than 70% of students qualify for free and reduced price meals. The middle school PTSO followed up with a letter-writing campaign. As of press time, several sources have told the Hyattsville Life & Times that they believe that the swing-space plan may still be in flux.
NEW SCHOOL COMING For several months, Jason Washington, as well as architects and builders involved in the project, have discussed the design and construction of the new school in a series of meetings with staff, teachers, parents and residents living near the site. On April 4, Washington and representatives from the private design-build team presented plans to the Hyattsville City Council. Councilmembers’ questions focused on the traffic circulation plan, in particular, which would have cars and buses entering the parking lot from separate entrances close to each other on Oglethorpe Street, the narrow residential road on the southern side of the property.
Councilmembers, including Danny Schaible (Ward 2), expressed concern that traffic would back up there as parents and bus drivers tried to navigate the site during drop-off and pickup. Hyattsville’s planning department will review the site design and make recommendations at an upcoming council meeting, before the site design goes to the county planning board May 20. Some elements that many hoped for are not included in the design. There is no dedicated auditorium, and the stage is at the end of the gym. The multipurpose field will not be large enough for regulation sports. Washington said to support the arts program, portable stage equipment will be provided that can be used in the school’s atrium spaces or outside. He further noted that the school district is seeking to formalize an agreement for students to use sports fields in local parks. In July, the school will be emptied and abatement will begin in preparation for fall demolition and site grading. And the 100-year-old oaks? Bart Lawrence (Ward 1) asked about the largest one on the property at the April 4 city council meeting; even that one will have to be cut down. The school district does plan to plant 120 new trees on the site.
Page 30
Hyattsville Life & Times | April 2021
WE BELIEVE IN JOSEPH SOLOMON AND SUPPORT HIM IN HIS RUN FOR MAYOR OF HYATTSVILLE!
Pamela Boozer-Strother School Board District 3
Jazz Lewis Delegate District 24
Rachel Jones Delegate District 23
Mel Franklin
Calvin Hawkins
Tracey Gant
At- Large, PG County Council
Chair, PG County Council
Mayor of Edmonston
Rocio Lopez
Joseline Peña- Melnyk
Deni Taveras
Mayor of Brentwood
Delegate District 21
Vice-Chair, PG County Council
VOTE MAY 11TH JOSEPH SOLOMON
FOR MAYOR
PAID FOR BY JOSEPH SOLOMON THIS IS A SELF-FUNDED CAMPAIGN | LET'S TALK! 240-487-9179