November 2020 Hyattsville Life & Times by Hyattsville Life and Times

INSIDE FLOOD: Residents recover, wait for the next one. P. 9 WHERE DID THE TREES GO? 30% of city tree canopy lost. P. 6

VOL. 17 NO. 11

HYATTSVILLE’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

NOVEMBER 2020

Process for participatory budgeting for Hyattsville begins

NO TRICKS, ONLY TREATS

Home pest invasions rise during pandemic By Heather Wright

By Emily Williams On Nov. 2, the Hyattsville City Council discussed Mayor Candace Hollingsworth’s proposal to create an ad hoc advisory committee to work toward participatory budgeting. The committee would recommend a process for Hyattsville residents to have a direct say in the allocation of the city’s budget, beginning with the 2023 budget. One member from each of the city’s existing committees and up to two residents not currently on a city task force would constitute the committee. Recommendations could include how the city will solicit residents’ input and the degree to which residents will influence budget decisions. Councilmember Danny Schaible (Ward 2) voiced his support for the committee, saying, “I think getting participation on the outset as to what shape it would take is a smart way to go.” Councilmember Edouard Haba (Ward 4) also supported the idea but recommended having a representative from each ward on the committee. Hollingsworth responded that the city has had some difficulty filling committees in the past. She said that including SEE BUDGET ON 6 

HAPPY VETERANS DAY FROM THE HL&T!

velopment of vacant land” and “multimodal access to the West Hyattsville and Prince George’s Plaza Metro Stations,” according to a document posted on the Maryland-National Park

Deer wandering onto residential streets and college campuses. Raccoons roaming during the daytime. Mice scurrying about our homes. As humans change their behavior during the pandemic, are wild critters doing so, too? How is the pandemic impacting wildlife behavior? Mice do seem to be invading more homes, according to Stuart Harper, owner of Atek Pest Management Inc., which serves Prince George’s and Montgomery counties. Harper is a second-generation pest controller and has been in the business for 30 years. He’s noticed two trends: His residential (vs. commercial) work is up, and residential rodents abound. Harper said in a phone interview that he’s purchased five times as much rodenticide this past summer than he would in a normal summer. “This year, I’ve done more mouse work in the spring and summer than I’ve done in all my 30 years.” Harper says as we spend more time at our homes, so do rodents. Restaurants, in doing less business and producing less trash, leave hungry mice looking for new habitats. “Where we are eating is where they’re going to come,” he said. Lesley Riddle, director of the city’s Department of Public

SEE WEST HYATTSVILLE ON 12 

SEE PESTS ON 6 

Nola, the police department’s new facility dog, attended the City of Hyattsville’s Grab n’ Go Treat-O-Rama at Heurich Park on Oct. 31. See more Halloween photos on pgs. 8 and 9, and learn more about Nola on p. 4. JULIA NIKHINSON

Developing West Hyattsville By Kelly Livingston

On Oct. 17, the Prince George’s County Planning Department held a kickoff bilingual virtual community meeting for a new sector plan which will guide

future development near the West Hyattsville Metro station. Prince George’s County Council approved the initiation of planning Oct. 13. The plan “is anticipated to focus on ... redevelopment,” as well as “infill de-

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Hyatts KIDS Page 2

Hyattsville Life & Times | November 2020

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.

HALLOWEEN BRINGS FUN DESPITE PANDEMIC By Talika Gorski and Delia Silva

This Halloween has been very different. Fewer kids trick-ortreated. Not many houses gave out candy. Reporter Delia Silva interviewed Nicolas Regotti, 12, and Michael Regotti, 9, whose family’s plans had changed significantly due to the coronavirus. The family mentioned that they did not trick or treat and, for the first time, their kids didn’t put on costumes, but they were OK with it. Their plans also changed because they were going to have a Halloween party, but couldn’t. But the family enjoyed the holiday because they made a fire pit and had s’mores and invited their friends. Even in a pandemic, people can have fun. The Gorski family dressed in costumes and visited the SoHy Sidewalk Saturday on Halloween. There were many tents set out on the sidewalk by shop owners, and a portion of the road was blocked off to walk on. There were things for sale and candy set out on tables. Talika Gorski reports, “We did slightly change our costumes to accommodate masks. My brother had a special yellow mask with red cheeks and a black nose for his Pikachu costume, and I was wearing a black one to match my costume, Hermione from Harry Potter.” The family also held an indoor scavenger hunt for candy and attended an outdoor Halloween party at

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 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.

BY MASON VOSMEK a friend’s house in Hyattsville. They saw many new creative methods of candy giving nearby, including a long green chute decorated with skeletons that was used to slide candy into the trick-or-treaters’ bags. Gorski adds, “I miss regular trick-ortreating, but now we have new Halloween traditions.”

BLM INSPIRES NEW HYATTSVILLE MURAL By Ryan Blackerby There’s a new mural in town! Water Balloon Dance, by Daniel Katz-Hernandez, is between K&W Auto and Streetcar 82 near Route 1. Inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement, it shows three Black kids having a fun water balloon fight. On his website, DKH Draws, the artist says, “For those three Black characters I visualized and painted, it was my hope that the image of play, laughter, and camarade-

The new mural by Daniel Katz-Hernandez is located between K&W Auto and Streetcar 82 near Route 1 CLAIRE ALOLGA

rie would assist in expanding the positive image of Black young men and the community.” I think he succeeded in that vision and represented it well. I liked the details that he added,

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Board of Directors Joseph Gigliotti — President and General Counsel Chris Currie — Vice President Reva Harris — Treasurer Rosanna Landis Weaver, Gretchen Brodtman, Debra Franklin, T. Carter Ross, Emily Strab Maria D. James — 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.

like how the boy on the left has a raincoat and an armful of balloons and how all the kids are wearing summer gear and water stuff. One kid even has goggles. Another is pointing at an incoming water balloon. I love the attention to detail in this painting. It really makes it seem more real. As a kid myself, this really speaks to me and shows that all people enjoy having fun with others, no matter where they live or where they are from.

ANACOSTIA BIOBLITZ: SPECIES IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD By Nora Marx and Irene Vaidyanathan The Bioblitz, which took place from October 15-18, is an annual community environmental event held by the Anacostia Watershed Society (AWS). During the Bioblitz, members of the community go into any part of

the watershed and document species they find over a short period of time by submitting photos via an app. According to their virtual introduction, the Anacostia Watershed Society’s purpose in hosting the Bioblitz is to have a “census” of the species in the watershed and to help people living in the area to “build a relationship with the river.” It also helps children and adults learn to be better observers by encouraging participants to “get in close and pay attention.” The AWS Bioblitz was first held in 2018 both online and as a public event. While some Bioblitzers used the app iNaturalist independently from home, the public part was held at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens for a few hours. There, a team of naturalists helped people to identify the encountered organisms, and the photos of the organisms were submitted to the Biodiversity of the Anacostia group within the app. This year, even though the pandemic eliminated the public meetup, iNaturalist reported over 3,700 observations during the two weeks containing the Bioblitz dates. Participants submitted many kinds of plants, fungi, and insects, in addition to the more commonly reported species such as the American Robin, the White Tailed Deer, and the Eastern Gray Squirrel. The Bioblitz was a good introduction to using iNaturalist for kids and families who want to learn more about the environment around them. “I found it fun because we went looking in places I had not been before, and found plants and amphibians in their natural habitats,” says Ella Williams, a student at Eleanor Roosevelt High School, who participated in her first Bioblitz this October.

Hyattsville Life & Times | November 2020

NEWS BRIEFS MAN DIES IN POLICE CUSTODY Edwin Morales, a 29-year-old Mount Rainier man, died in Hyattsville police custody on the afternoon of Oct. 14, following a bicycle and foot chase, and a short struggle. According to a city police press release, at about 3:40 p.m. on Oct. 14, a resident called 911 to report the theft of his bicycle on Rhode Island Avenue in Mount Rainier. The bike owner followed the suspect in a car. Hyattsville City Police Department (HCPD) Sgt. Patrick O’Hagan was first on the scene, as reported by ABC7, based on the incident report they obtained. Near the 5900 block of Baltimore Avenue, Morales jumped off the bike and fled on foot. ABC7 reported that O’Hagan pursued Morales, struck him with a baton and pushed him, causing Morales to stumble and fall. According to the HCPD press release, Morales “fell twice and continued to run before falling into a wooded area.” HCPD Media Relations Man-

ager Adrienne Augustus wrote in an email that the HCPD press release did not report the baton strike because initial review of the body camera footage did not show the baton actually striking Morales. “We did not believe what appeared to be a swing and miss were relevant to the sudden deterioration of the suspect’s health and unfortunate death.” Augustus acknowledged “the possibility that the baton may have grazed the suspect’s leg; however, the suspect continued running.” Officers requested an ambulance “for suspected unknown drug intoxication,” according to the press release. Morales became unresponsive before the ambulance arrived, and officers removed his handcuffs and began CPR. Morales revived briefly, according to the press release. He was later pronounced dead at the University of Maryland Prince George’s Hospital Center. Prince George’s County Police Department investigators are reviewing evidence and awaiting autopsy results. SEE BRIEFS ON 6 

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Hyattsville Life & Times | November 2020

Facility dog em-barking on a journey with the HCPD By Madison Burinsky The Hyattsville City Police Department (HCPD) swore in its newest member at an Oct. 8 press conference held at Robert J. King Memorial Park. Nola the Fifth will be working with the Community Action Team (CAT), and despite the acronym, she is, in fact, a facility dog. A facility dog is a service dog who serves an organization. Nola, though not a therapy dog, is trained to engage with people in crisis situations who may be traumatized or are exhibiting symptoms of a mental illness, according to an HCPD press release. Acting Cpl. Chris Evans will serve as 2-year-old Nola’s handler. “When I brought this idea to Chief [Amal] Awad, it was a vision to better the Community Action Team and the community engagement with the City of Hyattsville’s residents,” said Evans. “What better way to do that than by bringing a dog into the mix?” Evans and Nola responded to the Oct. 1 electrical fire at the Friendship Arms senior residence home apartments. “When we went to the Friendship Arms

apartments to help the residents who were evacuated because of a fire, everyone who saw Nola smiled,” said Evans in an email. “They couldn’t stop petting her. In that moment, the residents weren’t thinking about the fire, they were focused on this loving dog who was helping to bring calm to what may have been a frightening situation for some of them.” Awad said the nonprofit Canine Companions for Independence (CCI) provided Nola to the department for free after investing more than $50,000 in Nola’s overall training and care. “We’re very honored,” said Awad. “[Nola] is already leaving her paw print throughout the city.” Olivia Demberg, Nola’s puppy raiser since 2018 agreed that the Labrador-golden retriever mix will be a strong addition to the department. “She is the most adaptable dog I’ve ever met, so I know she’ll fit in perfectly to her new workplace and make everyone smile every day,” said Demberg. “From day one, Nola was a really fast learner,” said Demberg. “She was always the star pupil in

our puppy class.” When it came to learning new skills, Nola was a natural. “By the time she was 10 weeks old, she knew five commands, and she learned all 30 commands that CCI has puppy raisers teach by the time she turned 1 year old,” said Demberg. While learning may not be an issue for Nola, Demberg said that she does get distracted by one thing: water. “The first time she saw the ocean, she ran in before I could stop her and spent so much time swimming happily back and forth,” noted Demberg. “I finally had to go in the water to retrieve my retriever.” Despite her water fascination, Nola is perfect for the department, according to Demberg, who said letting her go was a bittersweet moment. “She’s had such a deep impact on my life,” said Demberg. “I can’t wait to see the difference she is going to make in Hyattsville.” You can follow Nola on Instagram @K9Nola_HCPD. Nola the Fifth was sworn in to the Hyattsville City Police Department on Oct. 8. MADISON BURINSKY

Madison Burinsky is an intern with the Hyattsville Life & Times.

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Friendship Arms fire displaces 160 residents By Luke Gentile Prince George’s County Fire Department (PGFD) officials said 160 people were displaced Oct. 1 after a fire broke out on the 7th floor of the Friendship Arms apartment complex, in the 5800 block of 42nd Avenue in Hyattsville. A resident reported the fire at 11:15 a.m. Firefighters were dispatched to the scene immediately. While firefighters worked to extinguish the fire, rescue squads swept the building, searching for anyone who needed to be evacuated. All searches were negative, and no residents were injured. However, PGFD officials reported that one firefighter was transported to the hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening. Tyrone Harrison, who has lived at the Friendship Arms apartment complex for close to seven years, said he did not realize there was a fire until he received the evacuation alert. “It was just that it was smoking a bit,” he said. “The firefighters put [the fire] out, and we had to evacuate the building and move out.” Jennifer Donelan, the director of public information with the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department, said smoke was rising from the roof when firefighters arrived, and a fire was located in the ceiling above two units on the top floor. “There was thermal damage to several electrical outlets,” Donelan said. “We put the fire out, but it kept sparking.” Donelan said firefighters could not isolate the electrical line to only the 7th floor, and leaving the power on could have risked rekindling the fire, so the decision was made to cut power to the whole building. 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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“It appeared at the time to be electrical in nature, but the word ‘appeared’ is very important because we don’t have a final origin and cause,” she said. “What we know is [that] with the power on, it continued to spark, with the power off it stopped sparking.” One hundred sixty people were evacuated so firefighters could safely cut the power and search for the fire. The Prince George’s County Office of Emergency Management assisted residents with short- and possible long-term accommodations. According to Harrison, residents were temporarily housed in hotels. City of Hyattsville Communications Manager Cindy Zork said the American Red Cross supported displaced residents by providing meals, comfort kits, and wellness and mental health services. Fire marshals made an initial damage estimate; according to Donelan, the property damage “looked to be about $10,000.” According to Donelan, the cause of the fire is still undetermined. Residents have, however, moved back into the apartment complex. Harrison said that he and other residents believe there is still repair work to be done. “We’ll be glad after they fix the top floor,” he said. “They fixed everything but the 7th floor.” Luke Gentile is an intern with the Hyattsville Life & Times.

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Hyattsville Life & Times | November 2020

PESTS FROM PAGE 1

Works, said in an email that her office has seen an increase in pest-related requests this year, but she also noted a huge increase in requests to the department across the board. She suggests that people being home more results in more household waste, along with “a generalized increased awareness of household concerns.” Riddle emphasized a distinction between common pests and local wildlife. “Animals like raccoons, squirrels, and opossums are native to Hyattsville and are important to the maintenance of our local ecosystem,” she said. “Though they can occasionally be pesky, they are not pests and should not be eliminated.” Glenn Therres, associate director of Wildlife and Heritage Service with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), said that they received more wildlife-related calls during the stay-at-home order, as people noticed animals that were usually there, but unnoticed, prior to the pandemic. “People are calling up to report a raccoon out there in the middle of the day,” he said,

adding, “We get lots of calls for normal animal behavior.” Therres didn’t think wild animals were expanding their territory as much as starting to come out more during the daytime. He said fewer people on the streets is less intimidating for the raccoons, who are “not just coming out at night anymore.” To discourage unwanted wildlife interactions, Riddle recommends properly bagging waste and securing trash can lids. To guard against wildlife home invasions, Harper suggests clearing leaves away from foundations and trash cans, as leaf piles can quickly become rodent nests. Take a look at caulking around the foundation; over the years, caulking can shrivel up and create gaps, which become perfect entryways for critters of all sorts. To report animal nuisance, or sick or injured wildlife, call Prince George’s Animal Management Division (301.780.7200) or the Maryland DNR at 1.877.463.6497. DNR can also help you locate a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. City Wildlife (citywildlife.org or 202.882.1000) and Wildlife Help (wildlifehelp. org) can provide consults and assistance, as well.

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BUDGET FROM PAGE 1

members from city committees, while leaving space for residents not serving on committees, would allow for geographic diversity in the advisory group. “If we see through that dynamic that we are lacking representation from various areas, [then] we do an additional, specific call for participants,” Hollingsworth said, adding that she would clarify that aspect in the motion. The council agreed tentatively to set the committee proposal as an action item for their Nov. 16 session. Following Black Lives Matter protests, Hollingsworth wrote a June 1 blog post, stating her agenda for Hyattsville as a list of 35 policy proposals. Implementing a participatory budget is the third policy recommendation on the list, which also includes integrating cultural competency assessments for municipal employees and advocating for mandatory Spanish instruction for students as early as prekindergarten. Around the country, some people refer to a form of participatory budgeting as the “people’s budget.” Activists want residents to have a say in where government funding goes, in an effort to defund the police and invest more in social services. Participatory budgeting began in Brazil in 1989 and has been implemented in more than 3,000 cities around the world, mostly at the municipal level. New York City is one of these municipalities, allowing residents to propose and vote on projects they

wish to allocate money to in their respective districts. Currently in Hyattsville, the city finance department prepares the annual budget, and the process is internal, said City Treasurer Ronald Brooks. Budget documents for the next fiscal year go to department heads and the city administrator in November or December. Three to four weeks later, the treasurer and city administrator schedule department meetings to go over operating and capital budget records. Then, a budgetary document gets introduced to the city council for discussion. Brooks stated that he favored the proposal, noting that his job would expand rather than change. The ideal process would run on a joint track, he said. While discussions continued internally with department heads, the mayor and city administrator, externally, the community would discuss and make decisions about their part of the budget. Participatory budgeting can have some disadvantages. For example, the process can be more time-consuming because city officials must gather community input and get residents to come to a consensus. Despite this risk, Brooks noted that it’s still important to give taxpayers a say in how their dollars are being spent. “I think it could work out well for Hyattsville; it’s a small enough community,” he said. “The key is going to be how strong and committed people are ... to setting up the meeting within various areas of the city, moving the process forward and meeting deadlines.”

BRIEFS FROM PAGE 3

HYATTSVILLE’S TREE CANOPY: 30% LOST SINCE 2009 Hyattsville lost 30% of its tree canopy, about 236 acres’ worth, between 2009 and 2018, according to an Oct. 19 presentation to the city council by Joe Joyner of the Davey Resource Group. The city awarded the forestry consultants a $30,000 contract in 2020 to study the city’s canopy. According to aerial imagery, the tree canopy covered 45% of the city in 2009, but was reduced to 31% by 2018. Land development, damage from an insect called the emerald ash borer, and the natural death of old trees are likely to be the main causes of this loss. Hyattsville’s maximum potential tree canopy coverage is 940 acres, or about 54% of land cover. In an email, resident Dr. Theresa Goedeke, an environmental sociologist active in the community on sustainability issues, offered praise for the Hyattsville’s Shade Tree Board, city arborist and public works department. “We have some amazing old trees here, but some of them are failing, and there are few young trees to replace their canopy. Added to that is what seems like a rush to develop in every green space left in the region, including our city parks,” she said. “In five years, this city will be transformed, and much less green and sustainable, I’m afraid, if we do not change our approach, collectively.” One bright spot on Hyattsville’s map is Northwestern High School’s campus, the largest area that has seen an increase in tree canopy since 2019.

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Hyattsville Life & Times | November 2020

Page 7

CULTURAL CONNECTIONS

Faith guided Canadian resident’s journey By Julia Gaspar-Bates Growing up in Cambridge, Ontario, Maggie Banga describes having a typically Canadian childhood. “We loved winter, when my father would flood the backyard to make an ice rink. We were on skates before the age of two. Skating was part of our life.” She and her three sisters would spend summers at their grandparents’ farm in southern Ontario where they would collect eggs, help their Irish grandmother dry leaves to make tea and occasionally be chased by goats. Canada has two official languages, French and English. Banga attended a francophone public school with a diverse population, which perhaps sowed the seeds for her future journeys. After completing her graduate studies in Toronto, where Banga met her husband, Mark, the couple moved to Chicago for four months in 2009 to do missionary training. The differences between the U.S. and Canada surprised Banga, including “subtleties in language.” She explained, “Asking for the washroom, I got blank stares; I didn’t know to call it the restroom.” Helping in an afterschool program, she asked for more “‘pencil crayons,’” confusing a super-

visor. “I didn’t know they were called ‘colored pencils’ here.” While Banga found Chicago similar to Toronto in some ways, she was surprised to see “the number of dented cars driving around and neighborhoods with boarded-up houses that were foreclosed.” She attributed the difference to the comparative lack of social safety nets, including healthcare. “I would rarely see this in Canada. The line is thin [in the U.S.] between life going well and facing significant hardship.” After their missionary training, the newly married couple lived in Ethiopia for six and a half years, working in social development and ministry. “We loved living there, even though life wasn’t easy. We lived simply. When you don’t have electricity most evenings and don’t know anybody at the beginning, it made for a true time to get to know each other and to get to know Ethiopia. In time, we made many deep friendships.” During their stay, the couple adopted three Ethiopian children whom they are raising to speak English, French and Amharic. Despite hardships in Ethiopia, including some serious tropical illnesses, Banga reports they were happy there and

Maggie Banga and family JULIA GASPAR-BATES

could have stayed indefinitely. However, the Bangas felt called to deepen their missionary work with theological study, which led them back to the U.S. After Mark was accepted into a master’s in theology program at the Pontifical John Paul II Institute, the family relocated to Maryland. Banga experienced real culture shock. “When you leave somewhere, there is always a sense of loss. As a married couple and now [a] family, all we knew was Ethiopia. We missed the culture, especially given that it is the culture of our children.” She added, “It was feeling the burden of materialism. I really

struggled. My heart was in Africa. We arrived with suitcases, and we wanted to return after the studies. I felt any toy, book or material possession I would offer my children now, I would then have to take away from them when we returned to Ethiopia.” The family moved to Hyattsville upon the recommendation of one of Mark’s classmates, and were immediately welcomed by neighbors, who provided them with furniture and household items to help them get settled. “After Mass at St. Jerome’s, lots of people stopped by and asked us if we needed anything. The only thing we hadn’t found were pots. That same afternoon, a woman came by with a set of pots for us, and one of the men came by with fresh vegetables from his garden. I don’t know how I would have managed if we hadn’t moved to a town as nurturing as Hyattsville. There was the loss and cultural change, and so without the instant friendships, it would have been challenging. Americans know how to be friends and have great hospitality – from bringing over a hot meal, to lending a hand, to neighbors’ inviting us to a Super Bowl party. People take initiative, and that really builds community.”

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Perhaps some of this American spirit rubbed off on Banga. After completing his master’s degree, Mark planned to take a position at the Archdiocese of Montreal, but just days before they were set to move, they had the sense that they were meant to stay in D.C. for Mark to continue with doctoral studies. “While I recognized that Hyattsville was a good and special place during the initial two years, I didn’t realize how much of a gift it was. Seeing Hyattsville in a new light, I wanted our family to really accept it as a gift and live in the community differently. I hope we can also be a gift to others.” Although her hope had been to return to Ethiopia following Mark’s graduation, Banga now feels that if they are meant to stay in Hyattsville long-term, she would welcome it. “We still love Ethiopia, and of course we miss Canada. Though our children have never lived in Canada, they have a very strong Canadian identity through our family. They were born in Ethiopia, are Canadian citizens and live in the U.S.” Perhaps this globe-trotting family will find their roots in this diverse community after all. “Cultural Connections” is dedicated to bringing forth the voices of Hyattsville’s international residents. Interested in sharing your story? Please contact culturalconnections@hyattsvillelife. com.

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Hyattsville Life & Times | November 2020

the

Hyattsville Reporter No. 392 • November 10, 2020

www.hyattsville.org • 301-985-5000

Notices & Updates

org/notifyme to sign up for City emails and texts about future bulk trash pop- ups. The ability to restart bulk waste pick-ups will be re-evaluated as leaf collection and snow removal needs diminish. The City thanks you for your understanding and support to keep its employees safe.

Final Days to Help Rename Hyattsville’s Park: City Council is asking the community to help identify a new name for Magruder Park. The renaming of the park is in conjunction with efforts started in 2019 to remove offensive and segregationist language from the Park’s original deed. Council is looking for a new name that is inviting, inclusive, and unifying. To participate, residents can submit suggestions along with a brief rationale by mailing the postage card included in the October Reporter (Green Sheet), using the suggestion box near the park’s Recreation Center (3911 Hamilton Street), online at hyattsville.org/namethepark, or by calling (301) 985-5039. The last day to submit suggestions is November 15, 2020. Council will consider the top names in early 2021. Meet Nola!: Have you met the Hyattsville Police Department’s newest member? She’s furry; she’s adorable, she’s Nola the Facility Dog! Nola came free of charge to the City from Canine Companions for Independence, with over two years of mental health and emergency response training. Along with her human companion Cpl. Evans of the Community Action Team, Nola will be PAW-trolling the City while making special appearances. If you’d like to keep up with her daily activities, follow her Instagram @K9Nola_HCPD! PGCPS Resources: Prince George’s County Public Schools offers many resources to support families during distance learning. Parents needing assistance can call the distance learning hotline at (240) 696-6629 Monday through Friday during business hours or visit an in-person support center (appointment only) Mondays through Wednesdays. For students, free meals for the week can be picked up from the school nearest to them on Mondays and Wednesdays, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For details and more information, visit pgcps.org. County Remains in Phase Two, Governor Reiterates Importantance of Masks: Both local and national COVID-19 cases have begun to rise. Prince George’s County remains in a Phase Two reopening stage and County Executive Angela Alsobrooks urges Prince Georgians to be cautious for the holidays and follow COVID-19 safety precautions. Face coverings in public spaces are still required by state law. For the latest information on the County’s phased reopening plan, visit mypgc.us/reopen.

Programs, Services, and Events

November 16 Public Hearing: A public hearing will be held on Monday, November 16, at 6:30 p.m. to hear testimony from residents regarding proposed amendments to the City’s Charter that will move the City’s Election Day to the second Tuesday in May, reduce the timeline for the Board of Supervisors of Elections to certify the election, and change the process by which the Council President & Vice President are elected. These changes have been proposed as part of legislation which will also designate the 2021 City election as an all Voteby-Mail election. To attend the Hearing, register via hyattsville.org/calendar. If you are unable to participate in the Hearing, comments may be submitted via email to cityclerk@hyattsville.org. For more information or to obtain a copy of the proposed changes to the City’s election process, please visit hyattsvillemd.legistar.com.

Utility Assistance: The Maryland Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP) provides various programs and grants for seniors and families or individuals having trouble paying electric and heating bills. Eligibility is income-based, and applicants can apply year-round - even without a turn off notice. To learn more and apply, please call OHEP at 1-800332- 6347 or visit their website at dhs. maryland.gov/energy.

Age-Friendly Programs

Age-Friendly Work Group Meeting: The Hyattsville Age-Friendly Work Group is holding its next virtual Zoom meeting on Friday, November 20, from 11 a.m. to noon. The informal group holds monthly meetings to discuss initiatives of the City’s Age-Friendly plan and provide updates on resources and support for seniors. For questions or to join the group, email mlefevre@hyattsville. org or call (301) 985-5012. Minnie Mouse and two princesses meet Nola from the Hyattsville Police Department’s Community Action Team at the Magruder Park Halloween Treat-O-Rama location.; Minnie Mouse y dos princesas se reúnen con Nola del Equipo de Acción Comunitaria del Departamento de Policía de Hyattsville en Magruder Park, uno de los sitios del evento Treat-o-Rama de Halloween.

Hyattsville COVID-19 Testing Location: Free non-appointment testing is available at the First United Methodist Church of Hyattsville (6201 Belcrest Road) through a partnership between the Church, Luminis Health, The County Health Department, and the City of Hyattsville. The site administers up to 200 walk-up and drive-thru tests per day on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Drivers can enter the Church’s parking lot using the entrance on MD Route 410 (East-West Hwy). Walkup tests are conducted at the front of the Church facing Belcrest Road. As inclement weather approaches, the site may occasionally need to close. To sign up for City emails and texts to be alerted of site closings, visit hyattsville.org/notifyme. For testing site questions, please call (301) 9855000. Thanksgiving Week Trash Collection Changes: City offices are closed Thursday, November 26, and Friday, November 27, for Thanksgiving. There’ll be no yard waste or compost pick up on Monday, November 23. Trash for the week will be picked up one day sooner, except for Friday, which will be picked up on Wednesday instead. County recycling routes for Thursday and Friday are shifting to the following day, while the rest of the week remains the same. Claus Applause Nominations: Let’s get the holiday spirit going! Starting at noon on Friday, November 27, you can nominate your home, a neighbor’s home, or that great house a few blocks over for the 2020 Claus Applause Awards! Visit hyattsville.org/applause to complete the online nomination form, or print the paper nomination form and mail to the City’s Department of Com-

munity Services at 4310 Gallatin Street, Hyattsville, MD 20781. Nominations will close at 5 p.m. on Monday, December 14, and judging will take place on Wednesday, December 16. If you have questions, please email ceverhart@hyattsville.org or call (301) 985-5021. Free Parking in City Parking Lots: Make plans to support Hyattsville businesses this season! Shop locally and safely by wearing masks, following social distancing protocols, or using local online ordering and curbside pick-up options. To make it easier, the City is offering free parking in City lots from now until December 31, 2020. Visit hyattsville.org/parking to view a map of the City’s lots. Leaf Collecting: Weekly leaf collection for City addresses is now underway and will continue through mid-January. Commercial and multi-family properties are not included. Leaf pick-up is weather dependent, as wet and heavy leaves can delay or cancel scheduled routes. To learn more and find out which day leaf collection is scheduled for your home, visit hyattsville.org/leaves or call (301) 985-5032. If you cannot rake your leaves by 7 a.m. on your pick-up day, you can always bag leaves in paper yard waste bags (no plastic bags) and put them out for Monday yard waste collections. Bulk Trash Services: The City has suspended bulk trash and white good appliance pick-ups due to limited staffing capacity during the pandemic. Household trash collection, yard waste, and compost collection will continue, and weekly leaf collection routes start in November. To continue to support bulk waste needs, the City will host a few bulk trash pop-ups for residents to drop off bulky items. Visit hyattsville.

Youth Services

Teen E-Center: The City’s Teen Center has gone virtual, offering a series of free after-school programs for tweens and teens in the community! Here’s what’s happening for the rest of the month: Real Talk Series “School? What’s in it for You?”: Friday, November 13, 5 p.m. Boys & Girls Club: Monday, November 16, 5 p.m. Tutoring: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 6:30 – 8 p.m. Open Night: Friday, November 20, 6 p.m. Holiday Break: Center Closed, November 23 – 27 Apply for a free membership to access all the programs, including tutoring services, at hyattsville.org and selecting the “recreation” button. Activity Boxes: Take a break from the screens this holiday season and pick up an activity box for the whole family! Beginning November 16, parents can purchase a $20 box ($10 for each additional box) filled with five different craft and game activities for all ages by visiting hyattsville.org and selecting the “Recreation” button. Boxes will be ready for pick-up from the Teen Recreational Center at 3911 Hamilton Street on December 14. Have questions? Contact Youth Programs Supervisor Saarah Abdul-Rauf at (301) 985-5065 or via srauf@hyattsville.org. Cole the Deaf Dog: On Wednesday, December 30, at 1 p.m., join us for a special live presentation with Cole the Deaf Rescue Dog, who’s on a quest to change the world one paw at a time! Cole, who’s a certified therapy dog, will be performing while teaching life lessons of acceptance. ASL interpretation will be provided. Registration opens on Monday, November 30, via the City’s recreation webpage, https://hyattsville.recdesk.com/Community/Program.

Hyattsville Life & Times | November 2020

Reportero de

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Hyattsville

No. 392 • 10 de Noviembre, 2020

Avisos y Noticias

jueves, 26 de noviembre y el viernes, 27 de noviembre para el Día de Acción de Gracias. No habra recolección de residuos de yarda ni compostaje el lunes, 23 noviembre. La basura normal para la semana sera recogida un día antes, con la excepción siendo el viernes, la cual seguira recogida el miércoles en vez. Las rutas de reciclaje del jueves y viernes serán movidas el próximo día, mientras que el resto de la semana sigue igual.

Últimos Días para Renombrar al Parque de Hyattsville: El Concejo Municipal esta pediendo a la comunidad ayuda para identificar un nuevo nombre para el Parque Magruder. El cambio de nombre del Parque se combina con los esfuerzos iniciados en 2019 para eliminar el lenguaje ofensivo y segregacionista de la escritura original del Parque. El Concejo busca un nuevo nombre que sea invitante, inclusivo y unificador. Para participar, residentes pueden someter sus sugestiones y porque enviando la tarjeta postal que fue incluida en el Reportero de Hyattsville de octubre, en línea vía hyattsville.org/namethepark, usando la caja de sugerencias cerca del Centro Recreacional del Parque (3911 Hamilton Street) o llamando al (301) 985-5039. El ultimo día para someter sugerencias es el 15 de noviembre de 2020. El Concejo considera los mejores nombres a principios de 2021.

Los Premios “Claus Applause”: ¡Vamos a poner en marcha el espirito festivo! A partir de mediodía el viernes, 27 de noviembre, puede nominar su casa, la casa de su vecino o esa casa magnífica a pocas cuadras de distancia para los Premios “Claus Applause” de 2020. Visite hyattville.org/applause para completar el formulario de nominación en línea o imprimir el formulario para enviarlo por correo al Departamento de Servicios Comunitarios a 4310 Gallatin Street, Hyattsville, MD 20781. El periodo para nominar se cerrará a las 5 p.m. el lunes, 14 de diciembre, y las casas nominadas serán juzgadas el miércoles, 16 de noviembre. Si tienen alguna pregunta o duda, por favor envíen un correo electrónico a ceverhart@hyattsville. org o llame al (301) 985-5021.

¡Conozca a Nola!: ¿Conoces al nuevo miembro del Departamento de Policía de Hyattsville? Ella es peluda; ella es adorable, ¡ella es Nola la Perra! Nola vino a la Ciudad por parte de la organización Caninos Compañeros para Independencia, con más de dos años de entrenamiento en salud mental y situaciones de emergencia. Ella, junto a su compañero humano, el Oficial Evans, estarán patrullando la Ciudad y mientras hace apariencias especiales. Si quiere seguir sus actividades diarias, ¡sígala en su Instagram @K9Nola_HCPD! Recursos de PGCPS: Las Escuelas Publicas del Condado Prince George’s ofrece varios recursos para apoyar a familias durante este periodo de aprendizaje a distancia. Padres necesitando asistencia pueden llamar a la línea de aprendizaje a distancia al (240) 696-6629 de lunes a viernes durante horas de negocios o visitar en persona a un centro de apoyos (se requiere cita) los lunes a miércoles. Para estudiantes, almuerzos gratuitos para la semana pueden ser recogidos de la escuela que les quede mas cerca a ellos los lunes y miércoles, de 10 a.m. a 1 p.m. Para detalles y mas información, visite pgcps.org. Condado Permanece en Fase Dos, Gobernador Reitera la Importancia de Mascaras: Los casos COVID-19 locales y nacionales han comenzado a aumentar. El Condado del Prince George’s permanece en una etapa de reapertura de la Fase Dos y la Ejecutiva del Condado Angela Alsobrooks urge a residentes a ser cautelosos para las vacaciones y seguir las precauciones de seguridad COVID-19. Las coberturas faciales en los espacios públicos siguen siendo requeridas por la ley estatal. Para obtener la información más reciente sobre el plan de reapertura gradual del Condado, visite mypgc.us/reopen.

Programas, Servicios y Eventos

Audiencia Publica de 16 de Noviembre: Una audiencia publica tomara plazo el lunes, 16 de noviembre, a las 6:30 p.m. para escuchar testimonio de residentes sobre enmiendas propuestas que moverán el Día de Elección de la Ciudad al segundo martes en mayo, reducirán el tiempo a que la elección sea declarada y cambiaran el proceso sobre como el Presidente y Vicepresidente del Concejo y son elegidos. Los cambios se proponen como parte de la legislación que también designará las Elecciones Municipales de 2021 como una elección total voto por correo. Para asistir a la audiencia, por favor regístrese a través de hyattsville.org/ calendar. Si no puede participar en la au-

www.hyattsville.org • 301-985-5000

Mike Schmidl, Lester Graves Sr. (not pictured), and Kevin Chance (not pictured), all staff of the Hyattsville Department of Public Works, respectively celebrated their 30, 30, and 35 year work anniversaries with the City of Hyattsville.; Mike Schmidl, Lester Graves Sr. (no en la foto) y Kevin Chance (no en la foto), todos miembros del Departamento de Obras Públicas de Hyattsville, respectivamente celebraron sus aniversarios de trabajo de 30, 30 y 35 años con la Ciudad de Hyattsville. diencia, es posible que los comentarios se envíen por correo electrónico a cityclerk@hyattsville.org. Para obtener más información o para obtener una copia de los cambios propuestos en el proceso electoral de la ciudad, por favor visite hyattsville-md.legistar.com. Sitio de Pruebas COVID-19 de Hyattsville: Pruebas gratuitas y sin citas están disponibles en la en la Iglesia First United Methodist de Hyattsville (6201 Belcrest Road) por medio de una asociación entre la Iglesia, Luminis Health, el Departamento de Salud de Prince George’s y la Ciudad. El sitio administra hasta 200 pruebas a conductores y a personas caminando por día los lunes, jueves y sábados, de 9 a.m. a 3 p.m. Conductores pueden entrar por el estacionamiento de la Iglesia usando la entrada en MD Route 410 (East- West Highway). Las pruebas a personas caminando se llevarán en frente de la Iglesia. Ya que se viene la temporada invernal, el sitio ocasionalmente se puede cerrar. Para inscribirse para emails y textos de la Ciudad si se cierra el sitio, visite hyattsville.org/notifyme. Para preguntas sobre el sitio de pruebas, por favor llame al (301) 985-5000. Cambios de Recolección de Basura para la Semana de Acción de Gracias: Las oficinas de la Ciudad están cerradas el

Parqueo Gratuito en Lotes de Parqueo de la Ciudad: ¡Haga planes para apoyar a los negocios de Hyattsville esta temporada! Compre localmente y de forma segura usando máscaras, siguiendo protocolos de distanciamiento social, o usando opciones locales de pedidos en línea y de recogida en la acera. Para hacerlo más fácil, la Ciudad ofrece estacionamiento gratuito en los lotes de la Ciudad desde ahora hasta el 31 de diciembre de 2020. Visite hyattsville.org/ parking para ver un mapa de los lotes de la Ciudad. Recolección de Hojas: El servicio semanal para recolección de hojas de árboles para hogares de la Ciudad ha empezado y continua hasta medios de enero. Propiedades de negocios, apartamentos y condominios están excluidos. El servicio de recolección también es dependiente al clima asi que hojas mojadas y pesadas pueden demorar o cancelar rutas programadas. Para aprender más sobre cual día la recolección de hojas está programada para su hogar, por favor visite hyattsville.org/leaves o llame al (301) 985-5032. Por favor note que si no puede juntar sus hojas antes de las 7 a.m. el día de recolección por su vecindad, siempre puede embolsar las hojas en bolsas grandes de papel (no bolsas de plástico) y dejarlas para el servicio de recolección de jardín de residuos. Servicios de Basuras Grandes: La Ciudad ha suspendido la recolección de basuras grandes y electrodomésticos debido a su capacidad limita durante esta pandemia. La recolección de basura regular, los residuos de yarda, el compostaje continuara, y la adición semanal de recolección de hojas empezando en noviembre empezara. Para continuar a apoyar las necesidades de tirar basuras grandes, la Ciudad sostendrá días emergentes para que residentes dejen sus artículos grandes. Visite hyattsville. org/notifyme para inscribirse para correos electrónicos y mensajes de textos sobre los futuros días emergentes de tirar basuras grandes. La habilidad para re empezar los servicios de basuras grandes serán reevaluados cuando las necesidades de recolección de hojas y removimiento de nieve se disminuye. La Ciudad les agradece por su comprensión y apoyo para mantener a sus empleados seguros.

Asistencia con Facturas: La Oficina de Programas de Energía para el Hogar de Maryland ofrece varios programas y subvenciones para personas de la tercera edad y familias o individuos que tienen problemas para pagar facturas de electricidad y calefacción. La elegibilidad se basa en los ingresos, y los solicitantes pueden aplicar durante todo el año, incluso sin previo aviso. Para obtener más información y solicitar, llame al 1-800-332-6347 o visite al sitio dhs. maryland.gov/energy.

Programas Amigables con la Edad

Reunión del Grupo de Acciones Amigables con la Edad: El Grupo de Acciones Amigables con la Edad de Hyattsville estará sosteniendo su próxima reunión virtual el viernes, 20 de noviembre, de 11 a.m. a mediodía. El grupo informal sostiene reuniones mensuales para hablar sobre iniciativas sobre el plan de acciones amigables de la Ciudad, y proveer actualizaciones sobre recursos y apoyo para la tercera edad. Para preguntas, o para ser parte del grupo, por favor contacte a mlefevre@hyattsville.org o llame al (301) 985-5012.

Servicios para Menores

Centro de Jóvenes Virtual: ¡El Centro de Jóvenes de la Ciudad es virtual, ofreciendo una serie de programas gratuitos que toman plazo después de la escuela para menores en la comunidad! Esto es la que esta pasando el resto de este mes: Serie de Conversaciones Reales “¿Escuela? ¿Cómo te Beneficia?”: viernes, 13 de nov., 5 p.m. Club de Chicos y Chicas: lunes, 16 de nov. 5 p.m. Tutoría: martes, miércoles, jueves, 6:30 – 8 p.m. Noche de Actividades Libres: viernes, 20 de noviembre, 6 p.m. Vacaciones: Centro Cerrado, 23 – 27 de noviembre Solicite una membresía gratuita para acceder a todos los programas, incluyendo servicios de tutoría, seleccionando el botón “Recreation” al lado izquierdo de la pagina. Cajas de Actividad: ¡Tómese un descanso de las pantallas de esta temporada de vacaciones y recoga una caja de actividades para toda la familia! A partir del 16 de noviembre, padres pueden comprar una caja de $20 ($10 por cada caja adicional) llena de cinco actividades de artesanía y juego diferentes para todas las edades visitando hyattsville.org y seleccionando el botón “Recreación”. Las cajas estarán listas para ser recogidas del Centro de Jovenes en 3911 Hamilton Street el 14 de diciembre. ¿Tiene preguntas? Contacte la Supervisora de Programas de Jovenes Saarah Adbul-Rauf al (301) 985-5065 o via srauf@hyattsville.org. Cole el Perro Sordo: ¡el miércoles, 30 de diciembre, a la 1 p.m., acompáñenos para una presentación en vivo especial con Cole el Perro de Rescate Sordo, que está en una búsqueda para cambiar el mundo una patita a la vez! Cole, que es un perro de la terapia certificado, presentara mientras enseña lecciones de la vida de aceptación. La interpretación de ASL será proporcionada. El registro se abre el lunes, 30 de noviembre, vía la página de la Ciudad, https://hyattsville.recdesk.com/Community/Program.

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Hyattsville Life & Times | November 2020

Canvas Apartments seeks input on retail By Sophie Gorman Oriani The development company Urban Investment Partners (UIP) is seeking community input on how to develop approximately 30,000 square feet of retail space on the west side of Baltimore Avenue between Hamilton and Jefferson streets. Steven Schwat, the principal at UIP, envisions an all-day community gathering space, supported by food, retail options and entertainment. The retail space, which is part of the Canvas Apartments project, is divided into two spaces: an area with just over 11,000 square feet of retail space along Route 1, and on the north side of the project by Crossover Church, one with over 18,000 feet. Both areas have an adjoining outdoor section. Steven Schwat, the principal at UIP, says that he has been coming to Hyattsville for many years and has employees who live in the city. Schwat imagines using the larger retail space for a food hall-style setup. “What I envision … it’s really just a starting point for

a conversation,” stressed Schwat, laying out a hypothetical scenario in which a number of individual merchants were selling a range of items — anything from art to fresh fish to prepared food — out of booths, with shared seating and entertainment for the whole venue. Schwat noted that Hyattsville lacks a casual hangout spot with eateries and sees the outdoor area as a particular benefit, especially for families with children. He suggested that the “piazza,” as he calls it, could transform over the course of the day. Schwat also said he hoped to welcome a small grocery store, one which would feel like a real neighborhood grocery. But the plans aren’t limited to food only. Artists and other artisans could rent stalls, too. “The space sort of becomes this community space,” Schwat said, stressing that “it’s always kid friendly.” James Chandler, director of the City of Hyattsville Community &

Economic Development Department, called the project “highly unusual” because UIP hasn’t requested any variations from the standards of the Gateway Arts District Sector Plan, which specifies details such as setback measurements, parking space requirements, lighting and so on. “[UIP] deliberately designed the project in a way to comply with the standards that are in place, so it’s a positive from our perspective,” Chandler said. Schwat plans to break ground on the project in January or February of 2021. Building the entire project will take about two years, he said. COVID-19 hasn’t changed much about the design, particularly since the area was already designed with a lot of outdoor space, according to Schwat. Chandler said that UIP has been very upfront about wanting the retail to reflect the values of the Hyattsville community. “What we want to know is what the people want and what they would use,” said Schwat. He plans to hire a local to curate the offerings “so it’s representative of the people that are living there.” To ﬁll out the survey about what you would like to see, visit www. surveymonkey.com/r/QJDFNRG.

A SPOOKY SOHY & A...

Top: Krissi Humbard, one of the co-founders of the SoHy Co-op, at the SoHy’s Halloween Sidewalk Saturday information stand on Oct. 31; Left: Shelita White with her daughter Bella, 4, and son Harper, 6; Above: Opal and Leota Wyant, ages 3 and 5. JULIA NIKHINSON

NOW OPEN!

Yes, it’s an

outdoor Tiki Bar in downtown Hyattsville!

Special Tiki Bar menu, including Franklins’ own tikitacular cocktails. Come on by, grab a drink, stick your toes in the sand, and enjoy the best beach experience that Hyattsville has to offer! Under the bridge in the Franklins parking lot 4PM-9PM Monday-Thursday, 4PM-10PM Friday Open-close Saturday & Sunday

franklinsbrewery.com

Hyattsville Life & Times | November 2020

HEURICH HALLOWEEN

Page 9

Flooding hits Hyattsville By Madison Burinsky

Clockwise from top left: Izzy Sandoval, 6, at the City of Hyattsville’s Grab n’ Go Treat-O-Rama at Heurich Park on Oct. 31; Giuliana and Andrea, both age 5; Patrick Slattery, 3; Alyssa and Dominic Thompson, ages 8 and 7; Aydan Wilson-Faocone, 2. JULIA NIKHINSON

A Sept. 10 storm wreaked havoc throughout Prince George’s County and damaged homes in Hyattsville. Water levels rose so quickly that “ensuing water rescues swamped the Prince George’s County Fire Department,” as reported by the Patch. Rainfall amounts in Hyattsville surpassed 6 inches, according to The Washington Post. Amanda Eisen, who has lived in Hyattsville for 13 years, said, “During the worst part of the storm, we probably had 6 to 8 inches of water in our basement.” Even though her basement is unfinished, the flooding still took a toll. “The pilot light on our hot water heater was submerged,” she said. Although Eisen had to purchase a new water heater, there was something in her basement that was salvageable after the flooding: “Luckily my husband’s artwork was not terribly damaged.” Eisen said she filed a report with Prince George’s County

but has yet to receive any governmental assistance with flood recovery. Another Hyattsville resident, Joanne, who asked that her last name be omitted, wrote in an email that her basement filled with 5 feet of water on the day of the flood. “The water flowed from the alley drain behind our houses through our backyards into the front yard to the street drain, creating a river,” she explained. She said neighbors rushed to move their cars before they got flooded. Joanne, who has lived in the house since 2009, said that the rushing water spared nothing in her basement. “The drywall had to be removed, and all appliances and electrical had to be serviced or replaced,” she noted. Joanne and others contacted state Sen. Malcolm L. Augustine, who visited the area after the flood; they had not received a response as of press time. Also, the Maryland Emergency Management Agency visited and took photographs of the area and re-

quested volunteer services, she said. “At this point, we have already handled the cleanup and are now at the rebuild stage, if that is what we decide to do,” Joanne said. When asked about how Hyattsville could have been better prepared to handle the flooding, Eisen said, “I’m not a hydrologist, but I would think that better stormwater management systems and more rain gardens throughout the city might help. Also, I don’t think they should be building new homes in the flood plain down by Magruder Park.” Joanne said that drainage systems should be reevaluated to determine what changes would prevent their overflowing and flooding in heavy rains. “We would love the city and/ or county to … determine what needs to be updated to prevent … this river in between the alley and our street,” she explained. “This exact same thing happened in 2014,” said Joanne. “We were told it was a oncein-a-lifetime storm then. Now that it’s happened again, but with more damage, how can we be confident it won’t happen a third time?” Madison Burinsky is an intern with the Hyattsville Life & Times.

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Hyattsville Life & Times | November 2020

MISS FLORIBUNDA

The wisdom of wild violets Dear Miss Floribunda, After bringing in my gawky potted plants for the winter, I realize I don’t much like any of them. I won’t name them for fear of being guilty of plant-shaming, but let’s say that being green and easy to grow is the best that can be said for them. They are the rare survivors of many gifts from friends who insist I have to have living plants around for good feng shui and to purify the air. What I’d rather have are window sills full of African violets in beautiful colors. I never stop buying African violets on sale, and they never survive. I’ve read up on them and gotten lots of tips from indoor gardeners but have trouble recalling all the little details: whether they like cold or warm water, how often to water, whether to water from the top or beneath, when to repot them, how to space them, how often to fertilize, which windows they prefer at which time of year — and other things I forget. If nothing else, can you give me ways of remembering? Amnesiac on Nicholson Street Dear Amnesiac, I experienced your problem also, to the great exasperation of my Aunt Snapdragon. She solved the problem by taking me to a display

of African violets (genus Streptocarpus) in the indoor rainforest at the U.S. Botanical Gardens. As she put it, “If you had any common sense, you’d know that every plant wants you to replicate its natural habitat as much as possible. I’m going to show you how violets live in the wild.” At the arboretum, I saw myriad African violets in their natural habitat. It is nothing like the natural habitat of conventional violets (genus Viola), to which they are only very distantly related. It became obvious that in their tropical jungle setting, the plants are accustomed to warm rather than cold water! (I shudder when I think I was once advised to put an ice cube in each pot of violets.) The light they receive is filtered by the leaves of the enormous trees they shelter beneath. When I viewed the flowering plants growing in concavities in a network of above-ground tree roots I finally understood why they like to be pot-bound. Their position in the root network of the trees also helped explain why they should be watered from the bottom. Although I was well aware from bitter experience that moisture on their fuzzy leaves resulted in spots of brownish rot, I didn’t understand why it made any difference whether the water

was added just under leaves or at root level. Now I saw how they received water in the tropics. There would be torrential rains every afternoon, but because of the luxuriant tree canopy the water would not touch the leaves of the plants nestling in its shelter but would rise into their roots from the drenched soil. I also realized that because of the shallowness of the tree-root concavities, the soil would be dry by the time the next afternoon’s rain came. Never again would I water my violets until the soil in their flower pots was dry, and I would place the room-temperature water in a tray beneath them. Looking at the flowers growing so close to each other, I realized why separating the plants and artfully displaying the different pots in solitary splendor had made them droop and stop blooming each time I tried it. In the wild, they are used to being together, where they exchange moisture transpired through their leaves as well as just through their roots. They might even enjoy a sense of companionship. Quite a few studies show that plants may be more sentient than we imagine. If you are very sensitive, let me give you a word of warning from my own experience: After I read The Secret Life of

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African violets like to grow in concavities in a network of above-ground tree roots. COURTESY OF UNSPLASH

Plants, I found myself muttering “excuse me” every time I stepped on the grass. Conventional wisdom is that African violets like a south-facing window in winter but not in summer, and a north-facing window in summer but not winter, and that they always like an east- or west-facing window. I think that more important is what kind of window treatment you have. Since the plants really don’t like to move, you might sacrifice

your blinds for those sheer voile curtains that filter rather than block out sunlight. More important than the direction the light comes from is that your windows be well-insulated from winter drafts. African violets can’t tolerate drafts and chill, and temperatures below 60 degrees F will kill them. So really, once you set a group of African violets together on a pebble-filled tray that is refilled with water whenever the soil in the pots feels dry, you can pretty much sit back and relax. Just take off the spent blooms and tell the plants how beautiful they look. Fertilize them occasionally, but not too much or too often. Overfertilization is fatal. For three months of the year, don’t fertilize them at all, but give them a rest, and they will bloom all the more when fed again. There are lots of plant foods designed specifically for them — but they will like your leftover coffee grounds mixed with washed and dried crushed eggshells, too. Please check the website of the Hyattsville Horticultural Society (hyattsvillehorticulture.org) for any information concerning future events or meetings. Miss Floribunda is the Hyattsville Life & Times garden columnist. You may email questions at floribundav@gmail.com.

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Hyattsville Life & Times | November 2020

Page 11

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Send your events or information on local private aid efforts to Kit Slack at kit@hyattsvillelife.com.

elow you’ll find community events sponsored by local nonprofits and artists, as well as a Give Help/Get Help section, where we list some of the ways neighbors are helping each other during the pandemic. As the weather cools and cases rise, our calendar is not as full. All information is current as of Nov. 5.

November 11

Moveable Chords Guitar Workshop online with Gina DeSimone. 7:30 p.m. Check the Archie Edwards Blues Heritage Foundation webpage, acousticblues.com, or their Facebook page for more information.

November 13

November 28

Joe’s Movement Emporium is hosting an online open mic series entitled “Amplify!” From their website: “Amplify is a freeform virtual platform where local artists can reflect, release, and protest through their artistry. This month’s theme is Plan & Execute.” Tickets and information at joesmovement.org/newevents.

Opening November 13

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tional” exhibition at Pyramid Atlantic’s physical gallery. Over 100 works, sized 10” by 10”, will be on sale, each for $50. Local and regional artists donate the work, and all sales support Pyramid Atlantic. Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Advance reservations required for opening weekend. Masks required. 4318 Gallatin St. pyramidatlanticartcenter.org. 301.608.9101 It’s SoHy Sidewalk Saturday! Area businesses along Route 1 set up shop outside so you can browse safely wearing a mask. Noon to 5 p.m. Check website for participating businesses. sohycoop.com

Recurring Acoustic blues jam sessions have resumed, outside in the parking lot behind Archie’s Barbershop — note new location: 4502 Hamilton St. Saturdays 1 to 4 p.m. The decision to hold the jam will be held on a week-byweek basis now that the weather is turning colder. Check the Archie Edwards Blues Heritage Foundation webpage, acousticblues.com, or their Facebook page for more information. Poetry open mics are back up and running every Thursday night, 9 to 11 p.m., at Busboys and Poets, 5331 Baltimore Ave. $5 cover. busboysandpoets.com. 301.779.2787 Pyramid Atlantic, the nonprofit

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art center at 4318 Gallatin St. is open to the public and is offering online and one-on-one or two-on-one in-studio classes in a wide range of techniques including pop-up paper engineering, lithography, and drawing from observation. pyramidatlanticartcenter.org Riverdale Park Farmers Market is open every Thursday from 3 to 7 p.m. in the parking lot near the Riverdale MARC Station, 4650 Queensbury Rd. Many vendors are offering pre-order options to reduce time spent shopping. No live performances for now. facebook.com/RPFMarket Three Little Birds Sewing Co. is offering virtual classes, including a basic sewing machine primer for $30, an “undies” class that provides an intro to sewing with knits and elastic, and workshops in making holiday gifts. More info at threelittlebirdssewingco.com.

Give Help/Get Help National Alliance on Mental Illness Prince George’s County offers free virtual support groups and education programs for people living with mental illness and for people with a loved one experiencing mental illness. Register at namipgc.org/onlinesupport-group-registration. The Blessings Box on 43rd Ave. between Jefferson and Hamilton streets is a regularly stocked

Saint Jerome’s Café provides a free lunch-to-go every Thursday 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for those in need. 5205 43rd Ave. Table set up outside the rectory in the lower parking lot; please wear a mask. Since March, meals have been provided by local restaurants. Donations can be sent to the address above by check made out to St Jerome Catholic Church, with “Saint Jerome Café” in the memo line. Greater Riverdale Cares & Route One Communities Care ask you to help our neighbors in need and our local family-owned restaurants. Your donation will pay for nutritious meals for neighbors facing food insecurity. Local participating restaurants include Hyattsville’s own Shortcake Bakery and Emerita’s Papuseria. Donate at gf.me/u/x4bmfa. St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church’s food pantry is open every Tuesday from 10 a.m. until the food runs out. 7501 Adelphi Rd. The pantry is primarily drivethrough, though walk-ups are welcome. Cars line up as early as 7:30 a.m. Due to a three-fold increase in families served, the pantry needs funds. Please contribute at gofundme.com/ stmarksfoodpantry.

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planning guidelines. During the kickoff, the sector plan team underscored that they are seeking community input for the plan, which is set to be completed in June 2023.

The West Hyattsville-Queens Chapel Sector Plan will replace the Transit District Development Plan established by the M-NCPPC in 2006. According to Deputy Project Manager Kendra Hyson, who co-hosted the launch on Oct. 17, the planning department is updating the 2006 plan for the area due to changed zoning ordinances, evolving economic conditions and new county

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about what the plan would mean for housing affordability in the area and how it might impact local businesses. “We’ve heard from a lot of people about the fact that they like the small businesses, they like the feel and character of West Hyattsville,” Hyson said. “We don’t want to ... take away from that. We simply want to make sure that we provide as many opportunities ... as possible.”

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The West Hyattsville-Queens Chapel Sector Plan will replace the Transit District Development Plan established by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission in 2006. JULIA NIKHINSON

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and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) website. The plan area includes the West Hyattsville Metro station, the Queens Chapel Town Center and the Queens Chillum Shopping Center, an area bordered to the north by the Mall at Prince George’s and by the District to the south. Most of the area lies within a flood plain. Robert Gilbane Jr., vice president of Gilbane Development Company, cited this as a challenge for the Riverfront at West Hyattsville Metro project in a video interview with Hyattsville Community & Economic Development Director Jim Chandler: “I think that the biggest issue that we’ve faced … was the 100-year flood plain and stormwater management.” The M-NCPPC planning commission interviewed Gilbane Development Company in the earliest stages of the sector plan development, according to engineering consultants from AECOM who spoke at the meeting. The commission also interviewed several other developers, property owners, the cities of Hyattsville and Mount Rainier, the Town of Brentwood, and members of the county council. AECOM stated that the interviews revealed that West Hyattsville has “no sense of place” or that it has multiple identities. Some residents taking part in the community kickoff disagreed with that notion. Residents also expressed concerns

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Hyattsville Life & Times | November 2020

Page 13

NATURE NEARBY

A nice-smelling invader By Fred Seitz

Like most mints, gill has a square stem and a strong odor. In spring, it has some fairly showy blossoms. COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA

I was walking in the backyard with my silly dog and noted a pleasant smell rising up from the ground. Clearly, this smell was not courtesy of my dog. Then I realized that my backyard was almost totally covered with gill-over-the-ground (Glechoma hederacea for Latin name buffs), a very familiar mint. It has numerous other common names, including ground ivy and catsfoot; one of the most familiar is creeping Charlie. Gill reportedly comes from the French word “guiller,” which means “to ferment ale.” Ground ivy was used as a flavoring and clearing agent in brewing beer before being replaced by hops, according to a plant guide from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. I’d met this little plant years ago in an edible and medicinal plant class. It is not native to North America, but was brought

from Eurasia by early settlers because of its edible nature and many medicinal uses. It has spread over much of the country, except for a few states in the Southwest. Gill likes damp areas like forests, wetlands and well-watered yards. Like most mints, gill has a square stem and a strong odor. In spring, it has some fairly showy blossoms, which are the one part of the plant that can be toxic to humans if consumed in large amounts. The kidney-shaped leaves with scalloped edges can usually be found year-round. Gill leaves make a flavorful tea and garnish, and in modest quantities are a safe addition to salads. The plant can be toxic to my mutt and other critters. Fortunately, most animals do not like the plant’s taste and avoid consuming it. Gill-over-the-ground tea reputedly relieves congestion and even mild fever, and it has had many other medicinal uses for hundreds of years. During the 19th century, ground ivy was used in

the U.S. to treat lung and kidney diseases, asthma, jaundice and hypochondria. And it was snuffed to treat persistent headaches. Its use has been documented in many edible and medicinal plant books, including Euell Gibbons’ Stalking the Healthful Herbs and The Spotters Guide to Healing Plants by Dr. Jaroslav Kresanek. Before ingesting ground ivy leaves in any form, make sure you have the correct plant, as there are other groundcovers that have a similar appearance, like purple dead nettle. As when eating any plants found in the wild, wash the leaves thoroughly. Try a very small piece on the tip of your tongue first and wait a minute or two. Gill leaves have a slightly bitter taste but should be safe for human consumption. Just don’t share them with your pets. Fred Seitz is the nature columnist for the Hyattsville Life & Times.

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Hyattsville Life & Times | November 2020

Design discussed for new HMS By Sophie Gorman Oriani At the Oct. 15 Hyattsville Educational Facilities Task Force meeting, Jason Washington, who is directing a six-school construction project for Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS), described the design for the new Hyattsville Middle School (HMS). Like the other five schools, HMS will have a wellness center that will provide some health care services to the community. HMS will have a steel-frame, four story design. Washington stressed that no functionality would be lost in the redesign. “If you had it going into this process, we’re gonna make sure you have that coming out,” he said. The school will also be built to LEED [Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design] silver standards. Washington said that the old HMS building will likely be demolished in August or September of 2021. He said it was probable that many components would be precast off-site to mitigate disturbance to the neighborhood and then moved onsite in the spring. On Oct. 21, the PGCPS Board of Education approved a con-

A rendering of the design for the new Hyattsville Middle School facility

tract with a development team to design and build six new county public schools, including HMS, through a process called Alternative Construction Financing (ACF), or public-private partnership (P3). PGCPS will be the first school district in the country to build schools through such a process. Maryland has been using a similar financing and construction partnership to build the Purple Line; progress on that project recently halted due to a dispute concerning cost overruns. According to an Oct. 22 press release, the development team includes Fengate Asset Management and Gilbane Development Company as the develop-

COURTESY OF PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

er, Gilbane Building Company as the design-build contractor, Stantec as the designer and architect, and Honeywell as the services provider. According to Washington, the team will finance the construction and maintain the buildings in exchange for 30 years of payments of $29.8 million per year. These payments will not start until the buildings are ready to be occupied. The total cost of the project will be $1.24 billion, according to a PGCPS fact sheet published on Oct. 13. Opponents of the ACF partnership, including Board of Education representative Raaheela Ahmed (District 5), as well as Our Revolution-PG County,

a “progressive advocacy group working to organize, educate, and take action for economic and social justice on the grassroots level,” have criticized the partnership as being too risky and expensive. On Oct. 19, PGCPS held a virtual town hall to discuss the alternative financing strategy. Approximately 18,000 people attended, mostly PGCPS parents. Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks spoke about the importance of the financing process, citing it as “an efficient and cost effective way that we can provide adequately for our students.” Monica Goldson, the CEO of PGCPS, stressed the dire need

for new facilities. She said the district could cover the cost of the project through earmarking approximately 10% of its capital improvement budget per year. At the Oct. 21 Board of Education meeting, Ahmed questioned the motion to approve the ACF partnership. “Why are we putting a BandAid over the leak when we should be fixing the whole pipe?” she asked, calling instead for an audit of the PGCPS capital improvement program. Multiple board members spoke in support of the motion. “I am not sure why this … is controversial,” said K. Alexander Wallace (District 7), mentioning students who “had to wear coats [inside their school] because the heat didn’t work.” The motion passed with 11 votes in favor, one opposed and one abstention. The next step in the P3 process is a 90-day exclusive negotiation period, during which the parties will “finalize deal terms, finalize the Project Agreement … and commence and complete commercial and financial close,” according to the Board Action Summary. The summary states that the cost can be adjusted down during this period, but not up.