january 2016 hyattsville life & times

January 2016Hyattsville’s Community NewspaperVol. 13 No. 1

Life&Times

January 2016Hyattsville’s Community NewspaperVol. 13 No. 1

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CENTER SECTION: JANUARY 13, 2016 ISSUE OF THE HYATTSVILLE REPORTER — IN ESPANOL TOO!

Special election guide: meet the Ward 5 candidates. Page X.

MASONS continued on page 11

NEW EDITOR WELCOMEMeet the HL&T's newest managing editor, Maria D. James. P. 2

MACY'S MADE BETTEROne man's efforts led to a new family restroom and changing station at the Mall at Prince Georges. P. 5

COUNSELOR OF THE YEARResident named D.C. counselor of the year representative. P. 7

by Mark Goodson

Just around the corner from the City of Hyattsville is a very active masonic lodge — the Shelton D. Redding Lodge No. 139 (SDRL) of Prince Hall Freemasons. The historically black masonic lodge shares the goal of community service through brotherhood with Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, but the two bodies' mutual existence is a reminder of segregation in the masonic body that is as old as America.

George Washington was a mason in the Anglo-American tradition at a time when black Americans were denied mem-bership. A man named Prince Hall founded African Lodge #1 in 1776, the year the country declared its independence. Ac-cording to lodge documents, African lodges grew and cre-ated the African Grand Lodge (AGL), a governing body. For over a century, these lodges grew without receiving recog-nition from the grand lodges of England.

In 1827, after Prince Hall’s death and when the AGL’s au-thority to grant new charters was drawn into question, the group declared its indepen-dence. Struggle for mutual

Hya� sville's Prince Hall Freemasons

By Rebecca Bennett

At the Jan. 4 Hya� sville City Council meet-ing, councilmembers discussed a motion that would direct the city a� orney to draw up a charter amendment concerning the quali� -cations of voters in municipal elections. � e council is likely to pass the motion, which was submi� ed jointly by Council President Edouard Haba (Ward 4), Council Vice Presi-dent Bart Lawrence, and Councilmembers Patrick Paschall (Ward 3) and Joseph Solo-mon (Ward 4).

� e biggest change proposed by this new legislation would be to allow non-U.S. citi-zens — even undocumented residents — to

vote in municipal elections. According to a city memo, Maryland ended non-citizen vot-ing rights in 1851, but le� it up to municipali-ties to decide local voting rights. Six Mary-land cities currently allow non-citizens to vote: Takoma Park, Barnesville, Garre� Park, Glen Echo, Martin’s Additions and Somerset.

Most councilmembers supported the issue. “I think — just like I thought with 16- and 17-year-olds who are paying taxes and driv-ing on our roads — they should have the right to engage in our city elections,” Paschall said.

Solomon said he thinks extending voting rights in city elections is something wanted and needed. “I think it’s the right thing to do

to bring them into the fold, because it’s a part of the city that is clearly present and eager to participate,” he said.

Lawrence said when he campaigned, he spoke with many resident foreign nationals who could not vote, but he felt they should be able to vote in city elections. “� ey face a great deal of challenges,” he said. “It seemed to me that li� ing just a li� le bit of the alien-ation … that it might just create a li� le be� er life for those people.”

Haba said, “� e key reason of backing this piece of legislation is that we, too, want [the council] to be the expression of the will of

Non-U.S. citizens likely to vote in city elections

VOTING continued on page 12

HVFD hosts holiday reunion for survivors of horri� c crash

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY FIRE/EMSThe Hyattsville Volunteer Fire Department and Prince George's County Fire/EMS celebrate the holidays with two families who met at Childrenʼs National Medical Center after a deadly Chillum Road crash.

by Maria D. James

Six weeks a� er � rst responders arrived on the scene of a tragic accident on Chillum Road in-volving a church van that ended � ve lives and sent 14 people to the hospital, they were reunited with survivors. With the help of one family and local me-dia, the Hya� sville Volunteer Fire Department (HVFD) and Prince George’s County Fire/EMS (PGFD) hosted a holiday gathering that included donated gi� s and Santa.

It was an unfortunate cir-cumstance that brought Vir-ginia resident Carrie Jenkins to know one of the crash vic-tims. She was caring for her son, Brayden, at the Children’s

ICU provided two families with alasting connection

CRASH continued on page 4

Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2016

A community newspaper chronicling the

life and times of Hyattsville

Mailing address: PO Box 132, Hyattsville, MD 20781

http://HyattsvilleLife.com

http://facebook.com/HyattsvilleLife

http://twitter.com/HvilleTimes

Hyattsville Life & Times is published monthly by Hyattsville Community Newspaper, Inc., a 501c(3) nonpro� t corporation. Editors welcome reader

input, tips, articles, letters, opinion pieces and photographs, which may be submitted using the mailing ad-dress above or the email addresses

below.

Editor and Web ManagerRebecca Bennett

[email protected]

Managing EditorMaria D. James

[email protected]

EditorMark Goodson

ProductionAshley Perks

Copy EditorsSean Bennett

Karen RileySam Stern

[email protected]

301.531.5234Writers & Contributors

Julia Gaspar-Bates, Lauren Kelly, Andrew Marder, Chris McManes,

Gray O’Dwyer, Kit Slack, Scarlett Salem, Fred Seitz, Caroline Selle, Sam Stern

Board of Directors Joseph Gigliotti - President and

General Counsel Chris Currie - Vice President

Caroline Selle - SecretaryPeggy Dee, Karen J. Riley, Rosanna Landis Weaver,

Gretchen Brodtman, Debra Franklin, T. Carter RossRebecca Bennett - Ex O� cio

Circulation: Copies are distrib-uted 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.

FromTheEditor

NEWS BRIEFS READ THE FULL STORY AT HYATTSVILLELIFE.COM

by Maria D. James

Dear Readers, I am Maria James, and it is my

pleasure to introduce myself to you as the new managing editor of the Hya� sville Life & Times.

In October, we received the un-fortunate news that our former managing editor, Caroline Selle, made the tough decision to step down from her position. In her farewell editorial, Selle encour-

Hello to Hya� svilleaged fellow writers in the com-munity to apply for the vacant position and consider the won-derful opportunity to work with the phenomenal, passionate HL&T sta� . I was inspired by her article and since joining the sta� I have found her words to be true. � e sta� has truly welcomed me with open arms. I’m thrilled to take the helm as managing editor and I look forward to meeting you and learning more about the Hya� sville community.

Journalism has always been my first love — even before I officially knew what it was. I was just a young girl who al-ways kept a journal and earned A’s in English class. Writing was as natural to me as breath-

ing. In high school I learned my love of writing could become a career. During my junior year at Ocean Lakes High School, in my hometown of Virginia Beach, Va., I enrolled in a jour-nalism class as an elective, and the class produced the monthly school newspaper. My senior year I earned the title of editor-in-chief and I was later awarded for my efforts. After complet-ing my bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications from Virginia Union University in Richmond, Va., I started my career at a small town news-paper in North Carolina called The Daily Advance. I worked there for three years doing ev-erything from taking photos

to writing articles on a variety of topics. While I loved my ca-reer in journalism, I decided to make the transition into public relations and marketing, which is the work I continue to do today. However, I still wanted to write and explore the world around me with my pen. I con-tinued to freelance write and in more recent years I served as a copy editor for the national on-line magazine, Hope for Women Magazine.

More personally, I am the youngest daughter of a mother who is a preschool teacher and a father who was a deputy sheri� and church minister in the Pen-tecostal denomination known as the Church of God in Christ. I have three siblings and I’m the aunt to three boys, one whom proudly serves this country in the U.S. Army. A� er accepting an internship in the Washington,

D.C. metro area in 2009, I simul-taneously completed my master’s degree in Strategic Public Rela-tions from Virginia Common-wealth University in Richmond, Va., and gradually started making a life for myself. I lived in Upper Marlboro and then Washington, D.C. before I o� cially decided to make Hya� sville my home in 2013.

� e mo� o I live by each day is, “She said she could, so she did.” � is mantra encourages me to be unapologetic about my goals and to push forward to transform my dreams into reality. Working with the HL&T is certainly a dream that has become a reality for me. As I learn my new role, I also plan to spend time learning about our readers and the com-munity. I am excited to meet you all. Please send your story ideas, questions or concerns to me at maria@hya� svillelife.com.

BODY FOUND ON NORTHWEST BRANCH TRAIL

According to the Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD), the body of 20-year-old Catherine Alvarado from Chill-um was discovered on Jan. 1 along the North-west Branch Trail.

PGPD said o� cers found the victim su� er-ing from upper body trauma when they were called for a welfare check at 7:20 a.m. She was pronounced dead on the scene, which was just outside of the City of Hya� sville in the 6100 block of Ager Road near Rosa Parks Elementary School. Homicide detectives do not believe her murder was a random act and they are working to identify the suspects and a motive.

WUSA9 reported that police told them the victim’s body was not dressed in workout clothes and it was unlikely that she was exer-cising.

A reward of up to $25,000 is being o� ered for information that leads to an arrest in this case. Anyone with information is asked to call the PGPD Homicide Unit at 301.772.4925.

NEW POLICE HEADQUARTERS MOVING FORWARD

In Aug. 2015, the City of Hya� sville solicited for professional consulting services in prepa-ration to renovate the former BB&T Bank Building at 3505 Hamilton Street. In 2015, the Hya� sville City Council approved the space to be the future home of the Hya� sville City Police Department.

� e � rm will help the city develop a request for proposals with the standards that a police department needs, Hya� sville City Depart-ment of Public Works Director Lesley Riddle said.

From the six bids that came back, the coun-cil authorized a contract with JMT for the services, not to exceed budgeted funds of $500,000, which a city memo said includes a concept design, interviewing the design and construction � rms, executing third party inspections and � nal commissioning of the building.

ELECTION REFORM

Citing the approval of 16- and 17-year-old voting and a large number of candidates as a historic election year last year, the Board of Supervisors of Elections presented ex-tensive changes in city election law to the Hyattsville City Council for discussion on Jan. 4.

The proposed changes include: defining the election board as having the power to investigate complaints, hold hearings, and implement enforcement actions; requir-ing a detailed expense report of cash with-drawals more than $20 in seven days; and setting campaign-contribution maximums.

DEMATHA PLAYERS AT ALL-AMERICAN GAME

� ree DeMatha Football players repre-sented Maryland in the Under-Armour All American Football game played on January 2 in Orlando, Fla.: defensive end Shane Sim-mons (Penn State commit) wide receiver and strong safety Tino Ellis and o� ensive line-man Terrence Davis, both commi� ed to the University of Maryland.

Ellis caught a 51 yard post which was the longest play from the line of scrimmage for Team Armour. Davis announced his intent to a� end the University of Maryland live in front a national audience on ESPN2.

POLICE RECEIVE K9 PROTECTIVE VEST

� e Hya� sville City Police Department (HCPD) received a K9 bullet and stab pro-tective vest as a charitable donation from non-pro� t organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. HCPD said the vest — for K9 Rudy — was made possible by an anonymous sponsor and is embroidered with “In mem-ory of Mindy.”


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BRICK WORK PLUS

by Caroline Selle

The new Three Little Birds Sew-ing Co. studio on Gallatin Street in downtown Hyattsville offers sewing machine rentals, group classes, and a selection of spe-cialty fabrics.

“When we first got into the space … it was just an office space,” said Riverdale resident, and co-owner, Kate Blattner. Alongside Jackie Wil-lis, co-owner and Gaithersburg resi-dent, Blattner officially welcomed patrons into the re-decorated studio for the grand opening on Dec. 6.

To get into the studio, patrons have to walk up a narrow stairway and take a sharp turn into a dimly lit hall. But once inside, the room is bright and airy, with shelves stacked to the ceiling with bolts of colorful and patterned fabric. One wall is covered with chalk-board paint, and three sewing machines and a “serger” (a type of sewing machine) are available for students to practice.

“It was the first place we came to and it kind of spoke to us and we just ran with it,” Willis said.

They were looking for a place that was big enough to teach classes but small enough to be af-fordable, and the former Gallatin Street office was perfect. “I want-ed to be close to home. I wanted something for the community,” said Blattner.

Blattner and Willis first met while working together in Wash-ington, D.C. and quickly bonded over their mutual love of sewing. Both bring years of experience to the studio: Blattner sewed through youth development pro-

gram 4-H, had a previous sewing business, and made clothes for her niece, and Willis grew up sew-ing, made all of her homecoming and prom dresses, and received a degree in the field before teaching at the university level.

“I’ve always wanted to open a sewing studio and do something creative,” Blattner said.

Three Little Birds Co.’s studio is a dual concept: it’s a space for learning and a space for shop-ping. On opening day, Willis moved back and forth between assisting a customer picking out several lengths of fabric for a sewing project and assisting a first-time sewing student making holiday ornaments on one of the three machines.

There were already dozens of beau-tiful prints to choose from. “The fabrics come from different whole-sale companies,” Blattner said. “We placed our first couple orders before we ever found this space.”

The two owners have big plans for the future of their business.

“We’ll have a variety of work-shops,” Blattner said. “A lot that are going to be what we’re calling project classes, so in two or three hours’ time you can walk away with an actual object that you made.” There will also be more advanced classes, potentially in-cluding one on handbags, and they’re thinking about hosting kids classes as well.

“I want to do a bring your own pattern kind of class,” Willis said. “Commercial patterns really are confusing.” Additionally, she’s in-terested in hosting classes on ba-sic sewing skills and information on sewing machines.

And, there’s always prom sea-son.

“Girls can come in and we can alter a dress they already bought,” Willis said. “A prom class is something I’m definitely interested in doing.” And, men’s fashion won’t be left out: she said she’s interested in teaching how to make button down shirts.

The pair said they’re interested in private lessons, too.

“We’re all ears. We want to fit our customers’ needs,” Blattner said. Whether that need is for an hour’s time on a sewing machine, a lesson on the basics, or an ex-pert class on draping, Willis and Blattner said they intend to keep the Three Little Birds Co. studio a fun environment.

“We’re a smaller studio, so ev-eryone’s going to get an intimate experience,” Blattner said.

Information about hours, classes and other services is available at www.threelittlebirdssewingco.com.

Sewing duo to service city

CAROLINE SELLEA selection of Three Little Birds Sewing Co.'s fabric.

CAROLINE SELLECo-owners Kate Blattner and Jackie Willis opened their sewing studio on Gallatin Street on Dec. 6.


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HYATTSVILLE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENTThe members of the Hyattsville Volunteer Fire Department (HVFD) are mourning the loss of beloved mascot, 6-year-old Hailey, who passed away peacefully on Jan. 1 after a brief battle with cancer. Hailey was 16 weeks old when she came to HVFD from the Washington Animal Rescue League in April 2010 with her Rottweiler sisters, Rylie and Lilla. Hailey is now chasing shadows with previous firehouse mascots Chile and Clyde. For more photos and to read more about Hailey's story, visit www.HVFD.com.

National Medical Center dur-ing the time of the crash. At the hospital, Carrie and her son bonded with Dianna, a child survivor from the incident.

According to PGFD, Dianna made such a signi� cant impres-sion that Jenkins enlisted the help of friends and family for do-nations on Dianna’s behalf. Jen-kins then contacted ABC7 News, which worked with the HVFD and PGFD to arrange and coor-dinate the reunion. Jenkin’s fam-ily and � rst responders distrib-uted gi� s to Dianna’s family, as well as other families involved in the crash.

Some of the � re� ghters and paramedics at the reunion had responded to the accident scene.

“It was a pre� y horri� c crash and it a� ected many of our re-sponders,” said Mark Brady, spokesperson for Prince George's County Fire/EMS. “O� en we drop o� victims at the emergency room and that’s it. We don’t always � nd out what happened.”

According to Brady, the mass casualty incident on Nov. 8 was one of the worst the department had experienced in recent years.

“We’re glad there were sur-vivors. We are pleased to hear there were positive results,” said Brady.

CRASHcontinued from page 1

REST IN PEACE HAILEY: BELOVED FIREHOUSE MASCOT PASSES AWAY


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By Maria D. James

For Anthony Drew of Beltsville and his son, 4-month-old Jeremiah, Dec. 10 was just a typical day for holiday shopping. Since he was already in the area, Drew decided to stop into Macy’s at the Mall at Prince Georges. However, his shopping trip came to a halt when he walked into the men’s room and realized there was no place to change his son’s diaper. Drew’s next steps crowned him as Macy’s “Hero of the Day.”

“I had no place to change Jeremiah’s dia-per, so we le� the store,” said Drew.

� at same day, he wrote a le� er to Terry J. Lundgren, the chairman and chief exec-utive o� cer of Macy’s, and expressed his concerns about the lack of adequate facili-ties for men to change diapers. Drew said that Lundgren forwarded his concerns within 24 hours to Regional Vice Presi-dent Alex Barron, who then called Drew directly.

“Macy’s heard my concerns and acted on them immediately,” Drew said.

Barron said the need for a baby station inside the men’s room was something no one had addressed before. Within a week, an employee bathroom no longer in use was renovated into a brand new customer restroom complete with a baby changing station, new tile and a new toilet.

“I was impressed with how quickly fa-

cilities maintenance came out and made a suggestion for how we could make this happen,” said Barron. “I think everyone felt like it was the right thing to do.”

� e new restroom, located on the third � oor at Macy’s — currently labeled as a men’s room — will soon be a unisex fam-ily restroom. As a thank you for helping to

bring on this kind of change, Barron and Macy’s awarded Drew with a gi� card and Christmas items for Jeremiah.

“Mr. Drew’s genuine concern was re-freshing,” said Barron. “It is nice to hear customers o� er suggestions to help our customers shop in our stores.”

Drew sees these changes as a win for pri-

vacy and safety — both aspects he consid-ers important to parents when raising a young child.

“Now infants and toddlers have the pri-vacy and safety they need, and custom-ers can enjoy the convenience of a family restroom,” said Drew. “Macy’s responded and resolved my concerns in a very profes-sional and expedited manner.”

Dad’s concerns help transform Macy’s restroom

COURTESY OF ANTHONY DREWAbove: Macyʼs Regional Vice President Alex Barron shakes hands with father An-thony Drew. Drew is holding son, Jeremiah Drew.


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Resident faces tough identity the� ba� leBy Sam Stern

Guy Owen’s problems began in July 2015 when he received an unexpected correspondence from his bank via his online ac-count. “I got a message from the bank saying they had approved my new credit card, but there was a small problem and they would like me to get in touch with them,” he said. Owen knew he had not applied for a card, as he was in the process of ge� ing a home equity loan to repair a damaged porch.

� is initial inconsistency was only the beginning of numerous fraudulent credit card applica-tions. All of the � rst applications went out on the same day, July 28, 2015. � e companies involved were all businesses and banks that Owen had patronized including JC Penney, Barclays and Citi.

Owen said victims of identity fraud are o� en faced with an un-certain resolution process with no clear answer. “I started asking questions of the bank. … � ey gave me a li� le bit of information but the funny part about this is when you have identity the� for the most part the banks clam up.”

According to the Federal Trade Commission, 9.9 million people have their identity stolen every year. Owen, a Hya� sville resi-dent, is one of those people.

Identity the� is unique because of the nature of the crime. Many times, the perpetrator is a faceless entity protected by the anonym-ity of an online presence. “� e hardest part is the identity of the person who stole the identity is hard to get,” said Hya� sville City Police Department Spokesper-son Lt. Chris Purvis.

But even though Owen knew the name and address of the per-son who stole his identity, no one has been charged with a crime. Police who a� empt to prosecute these crimes run into jurisdic-tional issues.

“I started investigating ID the� in the early 2000s. We wouldn’t

know who would take control of the investigation,” said Purvis. “We reach out to the jurisdiction where the suspect is and work with them,” he said.

According to Purvis, while the methods to catch identity thieves have improved, the problem itself has grown worse. “We have come to realize that it is a hard case to investigate. It’s a hard case to get a suspect on, and we’ve been trying to educate people on how to not get your [identity] stolen,” he said.

According to USA.gov’s pre-vention guide, there are mea-sures one can take to lessen the chance of a stolen identity. Steps to take include using com-plex passwords, checking your credit score frequently, and us-ing your Social Security number only when completely neces-sary. Gizmodo.com explains that many times identities are stolen because people are too loose with their information over the phone and in emails. Failing to shred sensitive documents and responding to spam can also in-crease the likelihood of being victimized.

Purvis said a stolen credit or debit card and a stolen identity are not synonymous. “Everyone’s credit card is gonna get hacked no ma� er what. … � ere are certain things that need to happen when someone takes over an identity."

� e Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recommends an imme-diate � ve-step process to follow right a� er the identity is taken including calling the companies involved, placing a fraud alert on your credit and reporting to the FTC and local police department.

Owen said he followed all the the steps and went through the prop-er channels, but more than � ve months later, is still experiencing the a� ermath. � e path to resolu-tion seems murky at best, with many questions along the way. His experiences point to the conclu-sion that the best course of action against identity the� is to prevent its occurrence in the � rst place.


By Rebecca Bennett

The American School Counselor Asso-ciation said state representatives for the “Counselor of the Year” program were se-lected because of their school counseling innovations, effective school counseling programs, leadership and advocacy skills and contributions to student advancement.

When Hyattsville resident Carletta Hurt — a school counselor at Howard University Middle School for Mathematics and Science (MS2) — was selected as the 2016 Washing-ton, D.C. Counselor of the Year representa-tive, she said it had something to do with her innovative high school transition program.

The District of Columbia Public School System has several high schools that work off lottery enrollment. Hurt said the transition program at MS2 gets eighth graders ready to

apply through a two- to three-month process that begins in January. The school sits down with students, goes over their grades, their test scores, their skills, how they feel, how they learn and their behavior. Hurt said they go over school options and she stresses that students should visit the schools, because they will spend the next four years there. The school counselor also helps students become their own advocates and discusses summer prep work.

The program is in its fifth year, which now allows Hurt to see how the process has prepared them to apply for college.

“Ms. Hurt’s dedication to the mission and vision of our school, to the success of all our scholars, and to the support of our par-ents is invaluable. She has supported our students in their transition to high school, helping them transition to such schools as

Sidwell Friends, School Without Walls and Banneker High School,” said MS2 Head of School Kathryn Procope.

Hurt, who has worked in inner-city and pub-lic charter schools, said her role as a counselor is really about advocating with parents on a regular basis. She said she works at develop-ing a relationship with parents and students, builds partnerships, and tries to connect with parents who who are not active.

“I stress to parents to know your child's counselor,” she said. “Know who is in the building to advocate for your child and make us work.” Hurt said a counselor can assist students when parents cannot and they are resources for community outreach opportu-nities when students are having larger issues.

Hurt will be honored at the White House and meet First Lady Michelle Obama on Jan. 28.

Hyattsville resident receives school counselor top honors

COURTESY OF CARLETTA HURT

Movin’ With the MayorTo encourage health, and have some fun, May-or Candace Hollingsworth is partnering with local businesses to offer free wellness classes to City of Hyattsville residents. Classes will be open to all skill levels. The next class is Sad-cie – Caribbean dance-exercise – on Saturday, January, 16, 12:30-1:30 p.m. with Island Fete Fitness at the City Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street. For more information, please contact Ellarose Preston at 301-985-5006 or [email protected].

Call-A-Bus is Free for January!The Call-A-Bus is operating free of charge in January. The bus is primarily to help seniors and residents with disabilities get to their med-ical appointments, but we also make grocery store and prescription-pickup trips. We offer round trip service, from and back to your home. If you’ve never used the bus before, registration is easy and also free. Call in advance to reserve your free trip – 301-985-5020.

Free all Year – University of Maryland Shuttle BusRoute 113 of the University of Maryland Shuttle Bus loops through Hyattsville, stops at the Prince George’s Plaza Metro, and then heads to the Uni-versity. Hyattsville residents can get a pass to ride free by bringing photo ID and proof of residence to the Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Passes are issued the same day. Route maps and schedules are available at www.dots.umd.edu.

Hiring Police OfficersInterested in becoming a Hyattsville Police Officer? The Hyattsville Police Department is currently recruiting experienced officers and others interested in starting a career in law en-forcement. The City offers competitive salaries

and excellent benefits. For more information please visit www.hyattsville.org/jobs.

Civilian Police AcademyResidents are invited to apply for an 11-week course to increase communication and col-laboration with the Hyattsville Police. The class takes place Thursday evenings starting January 14. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and pass a background check. For an application or more information, please contact Corporal James Denault at 240-286-6047 or [email protected].

How to Improve Zoning Rules in our CommunityThe Prince George’s County Planning Depart-ment is conducting a comprehensive rewrite of the Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Regula-tions. The goal is to make zoning code more user-friendly, and they want input from the public. With this in mind, the City and County will host a public hearing on Monday, Feb. 1, at 7 p.m. at the City Administrative Building, 4310 Gallatin Street.

Camp Magruder Spring 2016Spend spring break at Camp Magruder! Camp-ers will enjoy a week filled with arts, sports and much much more. Camp will be March 28 through April 1. The cost is $125 per camper and before and after care are available. Regis-tration opens January 18. For more informa-tion contact Saarah Abdul-Rauf at 301-985-5065, email at [email protected] or visit www.hyattsville.org/campmagruder

“Cooking Matters” Price Rite Nutritional TourTake a free nutritional tour of the Price Rite grocery store on Thursday, January 21 at 2 p.m. Learn to read labels, compare unit pricing,

find whole grain foods and add more fresh pro-duce into inexpensive meals. All participants receive a reusable grocery bag and a $10 gift card. Call-A-Bus will pick you up at your home, or you can meet us at 3104 Queens Chapel Road. Reservations must be made in advance. For more information contact Colleen Aistis at 301-985-5057 or [email protected].

Please Help Your CommunityThe City is mailing a survey to all residents, asking for your opinion on services for seniors and people with disabilities. The one-page survey shouldn’t take long to complete, and you can mail it back anonymously and free. Your answers will help City Council make decisions on how to best invest in our community. For more information, please contact Beryl Johnson at 301-985-5057 or [email protected].

Creative Minds Parent-Child ProgramThe City will again host youngsters ages 1 to 3 and their parents for art, music, stories, movement and play. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10 a.m. to noon. The next semester is Jan. 19 to May 5 and the cost is $50 for the first child and $30 for a sibling. Come check out your first class for free. Magruder Park Recreation Cen-ter, 3911 Hamilton. More information is avail-able at www.hyattsville.org/CreativeMinds.

Moviendo Con La AlcaldesaPara apoyar la salud publica, y divertirse, Alcaldesa Candace Hollingsworth y negocios locales están ofreciendo clases de ejercicio y salud gratis a los residentes de la Ciudad de Hyattsville. Las clases estarán para todos niveles. La proxima clase es de Sadcie – baile y ejercicio Caribeño – el sabado, 16 de enero, 12:30-1:30 p.m., con Island Fete Fitness, en el Edificio Municipal, 4310 Gallatin Street. Para mas informacion, por favor contacte a Ellarose Preston en 301-985-5006 o [email protected].

Llama-Un-Bus Gratis En Enero!El servicio de Call-A-Bus funcionará gratuita-mente en enero. El autobús es principalmente para ayudar a las personas mayores y residen-tes con discapacidad llegar a sus citas médicas, pero también hacemos viajes de recolección supermercado y prescripción. El servicio se ofrece para ida y vuelta, desde y de regreso a su casa. Si nunca ha utilizado el bus antes, regis-tro es fácil y además gratis. Llame para reser-var su viaje gratis – 301-985-5020. Gratis Todo el Año – Bus de la Universidad de Maryland Ruta 113 del bus de la Universidad de Mary-land circula por Hyattsville, para en el estacion de Metro de Prince George’s Plaza, y sigue hasta la Universidad. Residentes de Hyatts-ville pueden conseguir una tarjeta para usarlo gratis si lleve identificacion con foto y prueba de residencia en la Ciudad al Edificio Munici-pal, 4310 Gallatin Street, lunes a viernes, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Dan tarjetas la misma dia. Mapas y horarios de rutas estan disponibles en www.dots.umd.edu.

Contratando Policias¿Tiene interes en ser Policia de Hyattsville? El Departmento esta reclutando policias con expe-riencia y personas con interes en ser policia. La Ciudad ofrece salarios competitivos y beneficios excelentes. Para mas information, por favor, visite www.hyattsville.org/jobs.

Academia de Policia para ResidentesResidentes estan invitados a solicitor para un curso de 11 semanas para mejorar comunicacio-nes y colaboracion con la Policia de Hyattsville. La clase ocure cada jueves en la tarde empe-zando el 14 de enero. Para participar, debe tener 18 años y pasar una verificación de ante-cedentes. Para una solicitud o mas informacion, por favor, contacte a Corporal James Denault en 240-286-6047 o [email protected].

Como Mejorar Las Reglas de Zonificación en Nuestra ComunidadEl Departamento de Planeación del Condado Prince George’s está re-escribiendo las reglas de zonificación. La meta es hacerlas mas amable al usario, y para hacerlo, quieren comentarios del publico. Por eso, la Ciudad y el Condado tendrán una audiencia publica el lunes, 1 de febrero, a las 7 p.m. el el Edificio Municipal, 4310 Gallatin Street.

Camp Magruder de la Primavera 2016Pasa la vacación de la primavera con Camp Magruder! Camperos disfrutaran una semana llena de artes, deportes, y mucho mucho más. El Camp será 28 de marzo hasta 1 de abril. Cuesta $125 cada campero y horas antes y despues del día regular están disponible. Inscripción abre el 18 de enero. Para más información contacte a Saarah Abdul-Rauf a 301-985-5065 o [email protected] o visite www.hyattsville.org/campmagruder.

Gira de Nutrición con “Cooking Matters”Toma una gira nutricional y gratuita del Price Rite el 21 de enero a las 2:00 p.m. Aprenda a leer etiquetas, comparan precios de unidades, encuentran alimentos de grano entero y usan mas verduras frescas en comidas baratas. Participantes recibirán una bolsa reutilizable y una tarjeta de credito de $10. El Llama-Un-Bus te recogerá en su casa o encuentranos en 3104 Queens Chapel Road. Deben hacer reserva-ciones un dia antes. Para más información, con-tacte a Colleen Aistis a 301-985-5057 o [email protected].

Ayuda Tu Comunidad Por FavorLa Ciudad está enviando una encuesta a todos los residentes, pidiendo su opinion de servicios para mayores y personas con discapacidades. La encuesta – de solo una pagina – no debe tomar mucho tiempo para llenar y lo puede hacer anonimo, y despues enviarla gratis. Las respuestas ayudará al Consejo Municipal en decidir las mejores maneras a invertir en nuestra comunidad. Para más información, por favor contacte a Beryl Johnson a 301-985-5057 o [email protected].

Mentes Creativos – Programa de Padres y HijosLa Ciudad otra vez invita a padres y sus niños de 1 a 3 años al programa de arte, musica, historias, movimiento y juego. Martes y jueves, 10 a.m. a mediodia. El semestre es 19 de enero al 5 de mayo y cuesta $50 para el primer niño y $30 para un hermano. Puede visitar una clase gratis. Magruder Park Recreation Center, 3911 Hamilton. Más información esta disponible en www.hyattsville.org/CreativeMinds.

Hyattsville ReportertheNo. 326 • January 13, 2016 www.hyattsville.org • 301-985-5000

Page HR1 Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2016 Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2016 Page HR2

Creative Minds Parent-Child ProgramTuesdays and Thursdays StartingJanuary 19, 10 AM – 12 PM. Magruder Park Recreation Center, 3911 Hamilton Street. More information: Saarah Abdul-Rauf, 301-985-5065, [email protected]

Ageless Grace Senior Exercise ClassesWednesdays and Fridays, 10 AM – 11 AM; Hyattsville Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street. More information: Beryl Johnson, 301-985-5058, [email protected]

Call-A-Bus Trip to Safeway & AldiThursdays January 14 & 28, 11 AMPick up and drop off at your home. Reservations: 301-985-5020. More infor-mation: Beryl Johnson, 301-985-5058, [email protected]

Movin’ With the Mayor – Sadcie, Caribbean Dance & ExerciseSaturday, January 16, 12:30 – 1:30 PMCity Administrative Building, 4310 Gallatin Street.More information: El-larose Preston, 301-985-5006, [email protected]

Martin Luther King Jr. DayMonday, January 18. City offices closed. Emergency services continue.

City Council Meeting Tuesday, January 19, 8 PM. Hyattsville Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin StreetMore information: Laura Reams, 301-985-5009, [email protected]

Code Compliance Advisory MeetingWednesday, January 20, 7 PM. Hyatts-ville Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street. More information: Chris Giunta, 301-985-5017, [email protected]

Price Rite Nutritional TourThursday, January 21, 2:00 PM. 3104 Queens Chapel Road or ride the Call-A-Bus. More information: Colleen Aistis, 301-985-5057, [email protected]

Call-A-Bus Trip to GiantMondays, January 25 & February 8, 11 AM. Pick up and drop off at your home. Reservations: 301-985-5020. More infor-mation: Beryl Johnson, 301-985-5058, [email protected]

Call-A-Bus Trip to Shoppers & Price RiteTuesday, January 26 & February 9, 11 AM. Pick up and drop off at your home. Reservations: 301-985-5020. More infor-mation: Beryl Johnson, 301-985-5058, [email protected]

Hyattsville Planning CommitteeTuesday, January 26, 7:30 PM. Hyatts-ville Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street. More information: Jim Chandler, 301-985-5013, [email protected]

City Council Budget Work SessionReview of Council Budget Priorities for FY17. Wednesday, January 27, 8 PMHyattsville Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street. More information: Laura Reams, 301-985-5009, [email protected]

Seniors Free Movie MondayMonday, February 1, 9 AM – 12:30 PMBeltway Plaza; Call-A-Bus will trans-port.. More information: Beryl Johnson, 301-985-5058, [email protected]

Public Hearing on Zoning Re-WriteMonday, February 1, 7 PM. Hyattsville Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin StreetMore information: Laura Reams, 301-985-5009, [email protected]

City Council Meeting Monday, February 1, 8 PM. Hyattsville Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin StreetMore information: Laura Reams, 301-985-5009, [email protected]

Board of Supervisors of Elections MeetingTuesday, February 2, 4 PM. Hyattsville Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin StreetMore information: Laura Reams, 301-985-5009, [email protected]

Mentes Creativas – Programa de padres e hijosLos Martes y Jueves Empezando 19 de Enero, 10 AM – 12 PM. Centro de recre-ación de Parque Magruder, 3911 Hamilton Street. Más información: Saarah Abdul-Rauf, 301-985-5065, [email protected] Gracia Eterna - Clases de ejercicios Los Miércoles y Viernes, 10 AM – 11 AM. Edificio Municipal de Hyattsville, 4310 Gallatin Street. Más información: Beryl Johnson, 301-985-5058, [email protected] Viaje con Lllama-Un-Bus a Safeway y AldiLos Jueves 14 y 28 de Enero, 11 AM. El bus les recoge y deja en la casa. Reservaciones: 301-985-5020. Más información: Beryl Johnson, 301-985-5058, [email protected]

Moviendo Con la Alcaldesa – Sadcie: Clase de Baile-Ejercicio CaribeñoSabado, 16 de Enero, 12:30 – 1:30 PM. Edi-ficio Municipal de Hyattsville, 4310 Gallatin Street. Más información: Ellarose Preston, 301-985-5006, [email protected]

Día de Martin Luther King Jr.Lunes, 18 de Enero. Oficinas de la Ciudad Estarán Cerrados. Servicios de Emergencia Continuarán.

Reunión del Consejo Municipal Martes, 19 de Enero, 8 PM. Edificio Mu-nicipal de Hyattsville, 4310 Gallatin Street. Más información: Laura Reams, 301-985-5009, [email protected]

Reunion del Comité de CodigosMiércoles, 20 de Enero, 7 PM. Edificio Mu-nicipal de Hyattsville, 4310 Gallatin Street. Más información: Chris Giunta, 301-985-5017, [email protected]

Gira Nutricional en Price RiteJueves, 21 de Enero, 2 PM. 3104 Queens Chapel Road o Toma el Llama-Un-Bus. Más información: Colleen Aistis, 301-985-5057, [email protected]

Viaje con el Lllama-Un-Bus a GiantLos Lunes, 25 de Enero y 8 de Febrero, 11 AM. El bus les recoge y deja en la casa. Reservaciones: 301-985-5020. Más infor-mación: Beryl Johnson, 301-985-5058, [email protected]

Viaje con el Lllama-Un-Bus a Shoppers y Price RiteLos Martes, 26 de Enero y 9 de Febrero, 11 AM. El bus les recoge y deja en la casa. Reservaciones: 301-985-5020. Más infor-mación: Beryl Johnson, 301-985-5058, [email protected]

Reunión del Comité de PlaneaciónMartes, 26 de Enero, 7:30 PM. Edificio Mu-nicipal de Hyattsville, 4310 Gallatin Street. Más información: Jim Chandler, 301-985-5013, [email protected]

Reunion de Trabajo del Consejo MunicipalPrioridades del Presupuesto de FY17. Miércoles, 27 de Enero, 8 PM. Edificio Mu-nicipal de Hyattsville, 4310 Gallatin Street. Más información: Laura Reams, 301-985-5009, [email protected]

Pelicula Gratis Para MayoresLunes, 1 de Febrero, 9 AM – 12:30 PM. Beltway Plaza; Call-A-Bus transportará. Más información: Beryl Johnson, 301-985-5058, [email protected]

Audiencia Publica de Cambios a ZonificaciónLunes, 1 de Febrero, 7 PM. Edificio Munici-pal de Hyattsville, 4310 Gallatin Street. Más información: Laura Reams, 301-985-5009, [email protected]

Reunión del Consejo Municipal Lunes, 1 de Febrero, 8 PM. Edificio Munici-pal de Hyattsville, 4310 Gallatin Street. Más información: Laura Reams, 301-985-5009, [email protected]

Reunion de La Mesa de Supervisores de EleccionesMartes, 2 de Febrero, 4 PM. Edificio Mu-nicipal de Hyattsville, 4310 Gallatin Street. Más información: Laura Reams, 301-985-5009, [email protected]

CALENDAR CALENDARIO

Reportero de HyattsvilleelNo. 326 • 13 de enero, 2016 www.hyattsville.org • 301-985-5000


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COURTESY OF THE CITY OF HYATTSVILLEBoy Scouts Eli Widmer, Peter Currie and Jimmy Gonzales of Troop 224 await the beginning of the Jan. 4 City Council Meeting, where they presented the flags during a ceremony to start the meeting.

CAROLINE SELLEJoin Hyattsville Aging in Place at the Hyattsville Municipal Building on Feb. 6 for a valentine-making party! This all-ages event is great for the young and not-so-young. Participants can make a valentine for a friend and make one for a local senior citizen.

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January 15Celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on his birthday by watching portions of the PBS pro-gram "Eyes on the Prize," docu-menting the civil rights move-ment. All ages, but contains some distressing images. Free. 1 to 5 p.m. Hyattsville Branch Library, 6530 Adelphi Road. 301.985.4690.

January 18Schools out and young artists are invited to Creative Kids Day for hands-on art activities that teach skills in art materials, core principals of art, and insights into world cultures. SMART-link registration required. Ages 6 to 12. $34 residents; $41 non-residents. 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with before and after care avail-able. Brentwood Arts Exchange, 3901 Rhode Island Avenue, Brentwood. 301.277.2863.

January 20 and February 6Video Fest is an open-call feature of short film and video work by regional producers. Presented to the public in a social and appre-ciative atmosphere, the one-day festival is a showcase of known and unknown talent alike. Entries due 5 p.m. Jan. 20. Add sentence: Viewing Feb. 6 at 1 p.m. All en-tries received will be shown, and a panel of judges will select one work to receive the title of “Best in Festival” and a $300 cash prize. Brentwood Arts Exchange, 3901 Rhode Island Avenue, Brent-wood. 301.277.2863.

January 22School's out again on Friday, so come down to the library for Free Play with legos, board games, card games, chess, and arts and crafts. Ages 5 to 12. Free. 2 to 4 p.m. Hyattsville Branch Library, 6530 Adelphi Road. 301.985.4690.

January 22A trio of menacing gangsters conspires to execute the Great-est Robbery of the 21st Century: a piggy bank. The final showing of Clown Cabaret’s “The Heist” is a robust physical comedy, with nods to both high and low art ranging from French Surrealism to Bugs Bunny performed with-out dialogue. Performance fol-lowed by a talk back with the art-ists. Cash donation. 7 p.m. Joe's Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Road, Mount Rain-ier. www.joesmovement.org.

January 23Geriatric specialist Dr. Stepha-nie Trifoglio will bring clarity and compassion to the topic of dementia, of which Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause in persons over the age of 65. Symptoms, diagnosis, treat-ment, and research will be dis-cussed. Sponsored by Hyattsville Aging in Place. Free. 9 a.m. for coffee and conversation, fol-lowed by program. Hyattsville Municipal Building, 4310 Galla-tin Street. 301.887.3101.

January 25 The library Independent Film Series will view "Girl Rising," a documentary film that tells the stories of nine girls from nine developing countries, where each faces challenges that re-quire perseverance and com-mitment to pursue their dreams. Ultimately it is a story of the human spirit and the power of education to change the world. The filmmaker-in-residence will facilitate the post-screening dis-cussion. Refreshments provid-ed. Sponsored by the Creative Edge Studio and the Friends of the Hyattsville Library. Free. 7 to 9 p.m. Hyattsville Branch Library, 6530 Adelphi Road. 301.985.4690.

January 26Join scientists with the Na-tional Institute of Neurologi-cal Disorders and Stroke/Na-tional Institute of Health for a Brain STEM program pro-moting neuroscience educa-tion and awareness. Students will have the opportunity to learn about the human brain directly from staff and scien-tists and also take part in fun hands-on activities. Free. 5 p.m. Hyattsville Branch Li-brary, 6530 Adelphi Road. 301.985.4690.

February 6 All ages are invited to a Valen-tine-Making Party to make a special Valentine for a friend and another for a Hyattsville senior. Live music. Sponsored by Hyattsville Aging in Place. Free. 10 a.m. to Noon. Hyatts-ville Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street. 301.887.3101. Email [email protected].

Before or after you make your valentines, shop the Hyatts-ville Horticulture Society 's an-nual Seed Sale where at least 20 varieties of tomato will be on sale, as well as other vegeta-bles, herbs and flowers. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hyattsville Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street.

February 9Join us for a series of portraits of influential African Ameri-cans during Black History Month: Our Voices. In each program we will read a biogra-phy and have extension activi-ties (arts and crafts, film clips, music). All ages are welcome, but stories and activities will be most appropriate for ages 5 to 12. Free. 4:30 p.m. Hy-attsville Branch Library, 6530 Adelphi Road. 301.985.4690.

OngoingJoin PALS (Partnering Adults with Learning Students), a pro-gram where seniors listen to chil-dren read or assist with school assignments all while enjoying light refreshments. No registration necessary. Thursdays from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Hyattsville Branch Library, 6530 Adelphi Road. 301.985.4690.

Vigilante Coffee hosts Coffee Cupping on Fridays Jan. 15, 22 and 29 this month! The series gives participants the opportunity to learn how to cup coffee and to taste the roastery’s latest offerings. Free. 1 to 1:30 p.m. Vigilante Cof-fee, 4327 Gallatin Street.

Open Mic at Busboys and Poets, various hosts. Hear live spoken word poetry in the Zinn Room. Thursdays, 9 to 11 p.m. 5331 Bal-timore Avenue. 301.779.2787

Through March, naturalists will lead a guided hike around Lake

Artemesia and the Luther Gold-man Birding Trail on the first and third Thursdays of the month. Lake Artemesia, 8200 55th Av-enue, Berwyn Heights. Free. 3 to 4:30 p.m. 301.627.7755.

The Hyattsville library offers a va-riety of storytimes. Space is lim-ited; free tickets available at the children’s desk. Ages 1-2: Mon-days, 10:15 a.m. and 11 a.m. Ages 2-3: Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. Ages 3-5: Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. English-Spanish Storytime for ages 3-6: Saturdays, 11 a.m. 6530 Adelphi Rd. 301.985.4690.

Community Calendar is a select listing of events happening in and around Hyattsville from the 15th of the issue month to the 15th of the following month. To submit an item for consideration, please e-mail [email protected] or mail to P.O. Box 132, Hyattsville, MD 20781. Deadline for February sub-missions is Jan. 31.


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Take a walk in Magruder woods (and in many back-yards) and you see or get poked by a bright green, but quite thorny vine, known as Greenbriar (aka, catbriar). This native vine at times has been described as “invasive” because it can grow in such dense thickets that it crowds out many other plants. How-ever, critters that can nego-tiate the thorns sometimes use a patch of the vine for concealment or protection from pursuing critters and surely from most humans.

Tendrils on the vines enable Greenbriar to climb branches making them more of a chal-lenge to prune and safely pass. � e tendrils can sense the touch of a branch and will in-crease their grip and harden as they encircle the limb, fence or whatever they a� ach to. Even a� er pruning the plant, its rhizome’s underground food storage for the plant can help it sprout again.

In short, it is a tough, not so little plant, growing up to 20 plus feet tall. The plant does well in temperate environ-ments; there are around 300 species worldwide, 20 of

which grow in North Amer-ica. It will also grow readily with familiar true invasive vines, such as English ivy. The prolific growth of the greenbriar has challenged my own and other “weed warrior” efforts in accessing and removing English ivy.

Vilifying the thorny aspect of the plant comes easy when you’ve been pricked by it on a walk, but the leaves are ed-ible for many animals (no-tably deer and other mam-mals) and the bluish berries are consumed by birds and mice who, in turn, spread the seeds for more Green-

Nature’s barbed wire — the stu� of legend, food and drinkbriar. Some species of cater-pillars also use the leaves as a food source. The early shoots of the plants are even recom-mended as a “trail nibble” for hikers and walkers who know to mind the thorns. The roots of some of the North Ameri-can species are used to make sasparilla and herbal drinks. One species of the plant’s root was used as a medicine for the sexually transmitted disease (STD) known as syphilis. Oth-er herbal remedies ascribed to the plant were the increase of testosterone and sasparilla was also suggested to increase the amorous tendencies of the im-biber.

� e biological name for the plant, Smilax rotundifolia — like many biological names — comes by way of the interesting legend about a beautiful young nymph named Smilax who shunned the advances of a mor-tal youth named Crocus. Ironi-cally, both the seeds of Smilax and the bulbs of Crocus rely on the winter chill to bloom again in the Spring. � e some-what sexist ending of the tale has the reluctant nymph being transformed into a thorny vine as punishment. Ironically, the � owers of smilax o� en have a nasty odor, inspiring the nick-name cadaver � ower. Sounds like Zeus was really down on the poor maid. Still, some of the local plants may display a pret-ty green leaf in the cold times of the year, but curious youth should beware of the thorns year round.

NatureNearby


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recognition between Anglo-American and African-Amer-ican lodges continues to this day in parts of the country, only not in Hyattsville.

Online reference BlackPast.org described Prince Hall Freemasonry as the oldest and largest group of masons of Af-rican origin in the world. In describing the historic fight for recognition, former SDRL master Kevin Stephen said it was only in the last decade that there has been “mutual recog-nition” between the Prince Hall and the Ancient Free and Accepted parent masonic bod-ies. Stephen said that there is still some reluctance to recog-nize legitimacy at the subordi-nate level on both sides of the masonic body in this country.

SDRL meets in a space bor-rowed from Rollingcrest Com-

mons at 6060 Sargent Road in Chillum. Stephen said that the 20-year-old lodge's lack of geographical visibility inspires members to be more visibly active in the community. Some recent holiday services include organizing Thanksgiving food basket donations, a Redskins game potluck for senior resi-dents at Rollingcrest, and a Christmas toy collection.

Located at 4207 Gallatin Street is Hyattsville’s local lodge of Ancient Free and Ac-cepted Masons, Mt. Hermon Lodge No. 179 (MHL), which was established in 1886.

The two local lodges have shared some recent milestones that mark the growing integra-tion and recognition of both masonic bodies. In addition to attending one another’s meet-ings, the two groups marched together in the 2013 Hyatts-ville parade and continue to collaborate in offering a free

child identification program (CHIP).

A staple service of American freemasonry, CHIP creates a kit of identifying materials for a child: fingerprints, a video, a physical description and DNA sample. If a child goes missing, this kit can be used by law en-forcement to enhance search efforts.

Brendon Pinkham, supervi-sor of MHL’s CHIP program said he and other masons are eager to find events where they can offer this free and potentially life-saving service. MHL set up its CHIP program at Hyattsville’s Summer Jam this summer and at a clothing swap organized by Hyattsville parents.

For more information about SDRL, visit www.sdr139.org. For more information about MHL, visit www.mastermason.com/mh179.

MASONS continued from page 1

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SHELTON D. REDDING LODGE NO. 139Members of the Shelton D. Redding Lodge No. 139 meet at Rollingcrest Commons in Chillum. While the group has no independent space, it has been active in the Hyattsville community for over a decade.


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the residents. And not just a handful.”

“I really care about the expe-riences and the voices of all Hyattsville residents,” Council-

member Shani Warner (Ward 2) said.

Councilmember Robert Cros-lin (Ward 2) said when consider-ing this issue, the council needed to think about how difficult the process for obtaining citizenship for some people can be.

“I find it disconcerting that those folks — who are as com-mitted to Hyattsville as I am — that they don’t get the right to vote.” Councilmember Kevin Ward (Ward 1) said. “I can’t sit here and say I can’t support them getting the right to vote.”

Councilmember Tom Wright (Ward 3) said he was on the fence about non-citizen vot-ing because of feedback from citizens. “I also understand the concern of those residents … concerned about allowing peo-ple who may be just transient effectively create legislation,” he said. “But I also truly believe this is … a way to get the whole population involved and not just portions of it.”

Councilmember Paula Perry (Ward 4) — who, along with Councilmember Ruth Ann Fra-zier (Ward 5), did not support allowing non-citizens to vote — said residents do not have to be citizens to come to the council meetings and voice their con-cerns. “If they don’t feel that they can come to the council without having the right to vote … that’s a problem from us,” she said.

The council discussed possible technical issues with the city at-torney and the Hyattsville Board of Supervisors of Elections. A

year ago, the city lowered the voting age to 16, which allowed 15-year-olds to pre-register. The election board said introducing this legislation could essentially result in some people being reg-istered twice, which would give them two votes.

The election board requested a new part-time staff position come with this new legislation, because there are many tasks as-sociated with it, including main-taining the first city-only voter roll in more than 30 years, over-seeing same-day voter registra-tion and the specialized skill of verifying residency.

The election board requested the city only accept same-day voter registration on early voting days and not the day of the elec-tion, but several councilmem-bers still wanted to try to make it happen. Phasing in some of the proposed changes over time was put on the table.

The matter will come back to the council for additional debate.

VOTING continued from page 1

CAROLINE SELLEThe legislation sponsors proposed allowing an "affidavit of cohabitation" be accepted by the election board, which is a legal document signed by someone living with a resident, and would allow undocumented residents to vote in city elections.

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MissFloribundaDear Miss Floribunda,

For several years now I have pur-chased seeds during the Hya� sville

Horticultural Society seed sale in early February and usually I have been satis� ed. However, last year the tomato plants I started didn't

perform well. � ey developed � ne indoors and seemed to thrive outdoors, but I got li� le � uit. � e

tomatoes that did grow turned black and fell o� . Even the possums

passed them up. Could something have been wrong with those seeds?

Disgruntled on Decatur Street

Dear Disgruntled,

� e fault wasn't in the seeds, but in your soil. Although Decem-ber is the ideal time to get your soil tested, it is not too late to do so. You will � nd your soil is de-� cient in calcium, which is the cause of blossom-end rot in to-matoes. While the University of Maryland no longer will test the soil for you, their website (exten-sion.umd.edu/hgic/soils/soil-testing) provides the addresses of places where you can send soil samples for testing. Dr. Agrono-mosky, who used to be on the sta� of the soil labs at the Univer-sity of Maryland, advises against the home testing kits. � ey are not reliable.

Here are guidelines for tak-ing samples. First of all, don't take them when the soil is wet enough to make mud pies. � en — using a stainless steel or chrome-plated trowel, probe or spade — dig down as deeply as the roots of the plants you grow in any particular area are likely

to reach. (Do not use galvanized tools because they could con-taminate the soil with copper or brass.) Draw out as many as eight thin slices of soil from each area that needs testing. For example, you might want to take samples from your lawn; your vegetable garden; certain � ower beds; ar-eas where shrubs such as azaleas or boxwood are no longer thriv-ing. Mix each batch in separate clean containers. Remove rocks and turf, and let air dry for a day. Place approximately a cup of soil from each container in separate plastic bags such as those used for sandwiches. Some labs will provide plastic bags and labels or tags to identify the soil, as well as their protocol for the informa-

tion you need to provide with each sample. � e cost of testing each bag usually ranges from $10 to $20, depending on the lab. If you send soil from di� erent ar-eas of your garden, this will add up, but it only needs to be done every three years and more than pays for itself when you realize how many plants you save when you abide by the recommenda-tions the lab sends you.

Now that you know that the tomato seeds you bought from the country's oldest and most reputable companies, Hart and Landreth, were not below their usual high standard, let me tell you when you will have the op-portunity to buy more. Saturday, Feb. 6, the Hya� sville Horticul-

tural Society will again hold its annual seed and bake sale. � is year there will be no fewer than 20 di� erent varieties of tomato seeds, including the Abe Lincoln, a big beefsteak type developed in 1923. Again we will have the mag-ni� cent old Russian heirloom variety, Paul Robeson — named by Landreth Company a� er the russophile African-American ac-tor, singer and activist. Of course seeds for everybody's favorite Roma, Big Boy and Early Girl tomatoes will be available. � ere

will also be plenty of herb seeds to plant with the tomatoes, in-cluding 7 varieties of basil alone. New varieties of peppers will be o� ered, such as the Caribbean Fish Pepper and Big Jim's New Mexico hot pepper. Along with vegetable seeds you will � nd a wide variety of herb and � ower seeds for the bu� er� y garden and a special information table where you can ask questions and get literature concerning bu� er� ies and other bene� cial insects. Gar-dening books and paraphernalia will again be on sale as well as po� ed primroses to brighten the dark days till spring. I hope you won't forget to sip hot drinks and lunch on hot soups and baked goods, both savory and sweet.

� e sale will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Mary Prangley Room on the second � oor of the Hya� sville Municipal Center, 4310 Gallatin Street while HAP (Hya� sville Aging in Place) will be hosting its annual valentine-making workshop that same morning on the ground � oor, so you and your family mem-bers can enjoy both events. HAP events are open to people of all ages.

If you would like to participate in some of the last-minute planning of our sale please come to the next meeting of the Hya� sville Horticul-tural Society at 10 a.m. on Satur-day, January 17 at the Municipal Center.

Although December is the ideal time to get your soil tested, it is not too late to do so.

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