LAWSON’S PHARMACY A look at the last independent drugstore in town. PAGE 9
Hyattsville considers a staff shakeup by Paula Minaert
The city council discussed a plan at its January 3 meeting to reorganize the way the city staff operates. Presented by Communications Manager Abby Sandel, the plan suggested creating a new Department of Community Services. It would include various departments and functions that are currently separate, such as volunteer services, parks and recreation, events coordination, and telecommunications work. Sandel has also been acting director of parks and recreation since the position became vacant last summer. She told the council that after “six months of wearing two hats,” she found “a high degree of overlap between those roles.” In the nearly three years she’s been here, she added, she’s observed “a number of small functions that work very closely together but that don’t have a formal working relationship. We’ve all been independently directly reporting to the city administrator.” She said the current staff vacancies create “a good opportunity to look at the structure of the organization and see if there is a
COUNTY CUTS
Blues-playing barber Archie Edwards may be gone, but his music lives on. PAGE 4
Some trees removed from West Hyattsville belonged to the city. PAGE 7
Hyattsville Life&Times
Vol. 9 No. 1
Hyattsville’s Community Newspaper
Hyattsville Life & Times PO Box 132 Hyattsville, MD 20781
January 2012
Safeway to close February 4 by Susie Currie
From...
...to
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STAFFING continued on page 11
THE SOUND OF MUSIC
SUSIE CURRIE Hyattsvilleʼs Hamilton Street Safeway is to become the next to be replaced by Bestway, following the chainʼs former Riggs Road store (bottom photo).
Ending months of speculation, Safeway executives have confirmed that the Hyattsville store will close on February 4. The building has been sold to Bestway, described on its website as “one of the largest independent Hispanic food retailers on the East Coast.” Previously, Bestway replaced the Safeway at Adelphi and Riggs roads. The Hyattsville store will be the seventh in the region and the third in Maryland. The move comes nearly 30 years to the day after Safeway opened in that location. It ends more than a century’s presence in Hyattsville, dating back to at least 1909, when the Sanitary Grocery Co. occupied the corner of Gallatin Street and 42nd Place. In 1928, Safeway bought that store (now the home of Yoga Space) as well as the rest of the chain. From that location the market would move twice more, first to Route 1 and then to the corner of Hamilton Street and Queens Chapel Road, before opening at 3511 Hamilton Street on February 3, 1982. Employees, who will be offered jobs at other locations, were given the news on January 5. But store manager Nikki Nell said she had been fielding their questions since at least Thanksgiving. “Every day, when I come in, I don’t even get a ‘Hi,’ ” she said. “It’s just ‘Do you have a [closing] date yet?’ ” Questions intensified last month when a sign on the Safeway pharmacy window informed customers that it would close SAFEWAY continued on page 9
Included: The January 11, 2012 Issue of The Hyattsville Reporter — See Center Section
Page 2
Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2012
FromTheEditor
Drawing lines: not child’s play by Paula Minaert
I don’t do numbers. They have intimidated me ever since third grade, when Mrs. Powell yelled at me because I had a hard time doing multiplication. I also struggle with technology and my husband will attest to this. He has to come running whenever my computer hiccups and I get frustrated and start pushing keys at random. All this is to explain my initial reaction when I went to a meeting of the city’s redistricting committee the other night. I saw a computer screen projected on
A community newspaper chronicling the life and times of Hyattsville Mailing address: PO Box 132, Hyattsville, MD 20781 Hyattsville Life & Times is published monthly by Hyattsville Community Newspaper, Inc., a 501c(3) nonprofit corporation. Interested reporters should send their e-mail addresses to the editor to be reminded of deadlines and receive internal news. Articles and news submitted may be edited. The deadline is the last week of the month for the following month’s issue. Letters to the editor and opinions are encouraged. For all e-mail correspondence with HL&T: news, features, tips, advertising and business write to hyattsvillelifeandtimes@gmail. com. To submit articles, letters to the editor, etc., e-mail susie@hyattsvillelife.com. Executive Editor Paula Minaert paula@hyattsvillelife.com 301.335.2519 Managing Editor Susie Currie susie@hyattsvillelife.com 301.633.9209 Editorial Intern Scarlett Salem Production Ashley Perks Advertising advertising@hyattsvillelife.com 301.531.5234 Writers & Contributors Victoria Hille, William Jenne, Valerie Russell, Kimberly Schmidt, Fred Seitz, Hugh Turley Board of Directors Julia Duin - President Chris Currie - Vice President Joseph Gigliotti - General Counsel Paula Minaert - Secretary Peggy Dee, Bart Lawrence, Karen J. Riley Susie Currie - 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.
the wall, showing a map of the city. Andrew Diaz, the computer expert in the city’s community development office, gave a demonstration of the software program the committee will probably use to accomplish its task, which is to redraw the boundaries of the city’s wards in light of the data from the 2010 census. The wards need to have an approximately equal number of voters, Diaz said. Oh, no, I thought; it’s numbers and computers. My heart sank. But I listened and I became interested. Each of the city’s current five wards was in a different color on the map. The software allows you to use the cursor to
move a ward’s boundaries and stretch a ward or shrink it. I briefly wondered if you could use your creativity and make one into an interesting shape. The answer to that, by the way, is no. Richard Colaresi, the city’s attorney, then stood up and explained to the committee the guidelines for the redistricting process, set by the U.S. government. The wards must be contiguous and compact. They cannot vary greatly in size; the difference between the largest and the smallest must be no more than 10 percent. The committee may not consider any potential annexations of adjoining land and it must respect existing neighborhoods.
If there is a large protected minority in the city, the process must take that into account. Colaresi said that the committee is not permitted to “pack” (put all the group’s voters in one ward), “crack” (fragment the group into different wards) or “stack” (enlarge the wards so there’s no majority). Colaresi detailed the discretionary guidelines, too. The committee may protect incumbent council members’ seats, he said, and the council has indicated its desire to do this. The committee may also change the number of wards; the council has expressed its opposition to that. “This whole process,” Colaresi
An emotional farewell to Hyattsville teacher by Bart Lawrence
On December 20, nearly 200 people gathered at Hyattsville Elementary School to celebrate the life of Stephanie Chapman. Nine days earlier, on December 11, Stephanie, a beloved family member, teacher, colleague and friend, died following a six-year battle with ovarian cancer. She was 36. At the memorial, people remembered Stephanie’s love of books, teaching, tennis, the outdoors, her dog Twyla, and a student’s joy after reading a first book. Students and colleagues played music, sang and read poetry. Friends laughed over stories of Stephanie’s determination, habitual buying of children’s books (she left thousands of dollars’ worth of books to HES) and her belief in the superiority of reading over math (as relayed by her good friend and former HES math specialist, Shari Sternberg). And, of course, there were tears. Stephanie was born September 20, 1975, in North Adams, Mass. After earning a Bachelor of Science in early childhood education and interdisciplinary studies from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts in 1997, she volunteered as a reading
Nearly every day during arrival and dismissal, parents and guardians could expect to see Stephanie’s smile amid the rolling sea of children. That smile, especially for those uninitiated to the pandemonium of childhood hordes, delivered comfort, assurance and joy. LAURA ARKUS
specialist with AmeriCorps in George, Wash., and later served as an elementary-level reading teacher in Bennington, Vt. In 2001, she accepted a second-grade teaching position with the American School of Guatemala in Guatemala City, during which time she learned a second language. She returned to the U.S. in 2002, moving to Maryland to teach in the dual-language program at Cesar Chavez Elementary School in Chillum. Stephanie received the Washington
Post and Embassy of Spain’s International Teaching Fellowship, which allowed her to study education in Spain. In 2006 she joined the staff at Hyattsville Elementary School as a reading specialist. At HES, Stephanie seemed tireless. In addition to initiating many literacy programs, she shared strategies with parents to help their children on the Maryland State Assessment, provided professional development to the school staff on reading strategies, wrote curricula, edited the school newslet-
said, “is what distinguishes us from dictatorships.” The redistricting committee, in other words, has a real and important job to do. I am grateful Hyattsville has people willing to do it. They are Ana Pineda, Christine Hinojosa and David Rain. Rain, in fact, was a statistician with the U.S. Census Bureau. By February 15, the city council wants to have the committee’s initial plan and wants the final plan by April 1. A public hearing to garner resident feedback is tentatively scheduled for January 30. I have a new appreciation for both numbers and technology. ter, acted as a test coordinator, and much more. While at HES, she earned her Master’s of Science in education from Walden University and the prestigious National Board Certification. HES Principal Jeanne Washburn described Stephanie as “the main gear that kept the school running.” In a letter sent home with the students, her colleagues described her as an “outstanding educator.” Yet this brief retelling of her generosity, her accomplishments, her adventurousness, the milestones in her life, and her relentless inspiration of students and colleagues fails to paint a complete picture of Stephanie. Perhaps her most remarkable gift was her smile. Nearly every day during arrival and dismissal, parents and guardians could expect to see Stephanie’s smile amid the rolling sea of children. That smile, especially for those uninitiated to the pandemonium of childhood hordes, delivered comfort, assurance and joy. Though we’ve lost Stephanie, we will always have her. On any given school day, watch the students stream from the school, smiling for their love of learning and having learned, and there you’ll see Stephanie. Bart Lawrence is president of the HES-PTA. Donations may be made in Stephanie’s memory to the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund at www.ocrf.org , or the Washington Animal Rescue League at www.warl.org.
Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2012
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susie currie No, not yet! Caution tape keeps disappointed children out of the new Melrose Skate Park until the rest of the park is complete.
County to kids: Wait to skate by Susie Currie
Note to Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission: If you build it, they will come. Nine years after a St. Jerome middle-schooler started a petition, the American Ramp Company finished installing Melrose Skate Park in early December. It marked the end of the first stage of a larger renovation of a 3.4-acre park on the Northwest Branch Trail, near the city’s southern border. Then construction ceased, due to falling temperatures that closed the asphalt companies. When they reopen, contractors can start installing the basketball half-court, the expanded parking area and the realigned trail. It should be done by late March, said M-NCPPC landscape architect supervisor Brenda Iraola. In the meantime, skaters of all ages have been flocking to the park. So many, said Iraola, that a concrete bench broke before it had finished curing and had to be replaced. “We’re glad that so many people are excited about it,” she said, “But for love of the skate park, people have already ruined part of it.” Iraola, who also oversaw construction of the Mount Rainier Skate Park in 2009, says that the amount of premature park use has been a surprise. “We didn’t know people would be using it before we were ready to open,” she said. Some kids jumped the gun on the Mount Rainier opening, too, “but because it’s kind of tucked away, they didn’t start coming until the very end. Being on Rhode Island Avenue, Melrose is so visible – it’s gotten a lot more use much earlier in the process.” The main concern, she said, is safety. Since the rest of the park isn’t finished, the whole area is considered an active construction site and, as such, could be hazardous. “A skater who fell into those empty planters would be falling three or four feet into hollow concrete,” she explained. “Also, there’s still construction debris – nails, pieces of rebar – around the perimeter. So even getting to the site, anyone who fell while walking through the mud or gravel could get hurt.” And so, on December 23, M-NCPPC employees came to seal off Melrose Skate Park. That came as a surprise to several children; 4-year-
old Gloria Bowman had been hoping to practice in-line skating when county workers began surrounding the area with yellow caution tape and orange snow fencing. Later that week, other children, who intended to spend part of their school vacation perfecting skateboard tricks, were instead told by county officials that the Park Police would soon be doing spot checks to remind people of the closure. A temporary chain-link fence with a No Trespassing sign will be installed by mid-January. “It’s silly for the county to invite kids to jump off 5-foot concrete ramps, but worry they will walk through the muddy edge of a vacant site or fall into a flower planter,” said Matt Bowman, Gloria’s father. “Kids from around the county will climb any fence they erect.” While construction is halted, he said, the county could “clean up [debris] on a small path leading to the skate park, cover the empty planter with a piece of plywood, and just fence the side of the park that would prevent the ‘hazard’ of a kid walking into construction mud.” Iraola understands the frustration. She said she tried to get a temporary opening of the skate portion until construction resumes on the rest of the park, which she expects to be mid-February. “But the risk-management team here thought … it would be sending mixed signals to open it, then close it,” she explained. “And we really do have to have it closed while the rest of the work is getting done, when there will be big machines everywhere.” City Councilmember Eric Wingard (Ward 1) represents the district containing the park. “Considering there will be nothing added to the park for safety, I personally do not see why it cannot be used at one’s own risk, as it will be once officially open,” said Wingard, one of several parents who recently bought their children skateboards. “That being said, the park is really a fantastic addition to the neighborhood.” “It’s not that we don’t want people to use it!” said Iraola. “We’re excited that people are coming, but we want to keep it safe. When we’re done with everything and the Bobcats and tools are gone, we want them to come back and skate their hearts out.”
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Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2012
The Blues live on in Riverdale Park by Jim Groves
“Blues in E, regular 1-4-5,” someone yells. A guitar gives an opening riff, followed by a sweet harmonica. Slowly, more sound rolls in: guitars, mandolin, saxophone, piano, harmonica and, finally, a voice tearing into “Walking Blues,” a Robert Johnson blues song from 1936. It’s just another Saturday at the Archie Edwards Blues Barbershop. Tucked between S&J Restaurant and the railroad tracks, near the intersection of Route 1 and East-West Highway, there is a plain building that looks a little in disrepair. It was built as Riverdale Park’s original trolley station; most recently, until 2005, it housed the Riverdale Bookstore & Coffee Depot.
Now, though, on any given Saturday afternoon, you will hear instruments and voices emanating from the interior, belting out the blues and accompanied by the occasional rhythmic rumble of a passing train. Don’t come for a trim, though; the Barbershop moniker is a tribute to the birthplace of these Saturday Jams. In 1959, Mr. Archie Edwards opened the Alpha Tonsorial Palace on Bunker Hill Road in Northeast Washington. (That would be a barbershop, for those without a dictionary handy.) Edwards (1918-1998) liked cutting hair, but he loved the blues – specifically Piedmont Blues, a finger-picking style that has the thumb hitting the guitar’s
bass strings and the fingers playing the melody. Every Saturday afternoon, Edwards would put down the scissors and pick up his guitar and open the door of his “Palace” to other musicians to jam the blues. There he would meet, and eventually play with, “Mississippi John” Hurt until Hurt’s death in 1966. During his playing years, Edwards played with the American Folk Blues Festival, which toured Europe and even put out a couple of albums in the 1980s. In June 1998, Edwards died, but his legacy would live on. The Archie Edwards Blues Heritage Foundation was created shortly after Edwards’ death to keep the blues alive. The Saturday Jams continued for another 10 years in the original location, funded by donations, workshops and concerts. In 2008, the barbershop was sold to a dentist, and many thought it would be the end of the Jams. But it turned out to be a piece of luck for our area. In March 2009, the Archie Edwards Blues Barbershop moved to its current home at 4701 Queensbury Road. “This one is in A, like apple,” another voice yells out. Here’s how it works: musicians of all styles and playing ability get together to play the acoustic blues every Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m. There are some great musicians who show up, like Phil Wiggins, Ian Walters, Miles Spicer and NEA award-winner Warner Williams. Then there are the others, who “keep their day jobs” (including
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Jim Lande Local musicians gather in the historic Riverdale Park trolley station for the Archie Edwards Blues Heritage Foundation Holiday Party last month. The group meets weekly and is open to the public.
yours truly) and just love to play. Everyone who wants to gets a turn to lead and/or sing. There is no stress, no pressure. Everyone plays to their own ability. Sometimes you just have to watch; other times you’re leading the pack. The Barbershop also has an Acoustic Open Mic Night on the first Thursday of every month from 7 to 10 p.m. It’s all acoustic, but anything goes, not just blues. Come to play or just to listen. All are invited! For more information on the Barbershop, Saturday Jams, Open Mic Night and special blues programs and workshops, visit www.acousticblues.com. Jim Groves has lived in Hyattsville for 20 years and played guitar for 25. He will be keeping his day job.
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Senior services coordinator dives right in sity of America. Before coming to Hyattsville, Stowers was three years with the Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority. She worked on a public housing high-rise for seniors and adults with disabilities. “I had the opportunity to really engage with seniors one-on-one, providing them with community resources, information and referrals,” she said. “A lot of the work focused on helping them maintain independence and live in place successfully.” Stowers said that working in Hyattsville has more of a community organizing aspect to it, identifying needs and resources and making seniors aware of what’s available to them. “A lot of the job will be comparing what’s available in the city and what the county offers. In Alexandria, everything came through the city. Here, some
by Paula Minaert
A new resource for seniors in Hyattsville arrived in December in the person of Emily Stowers, who fills the recently created position of senior services coordinator. In the short time she’s been here, Stowers has ridden the Call-a-Bus, met with the Aging in Place group, toured the city in a police car, attended two holiday lunches and a bingo game – and has met many people while doing so. The position is new, said Communications Manager Abby Sandel, but the concept of the city responding to senior residents’ concerns is not. “The city knows this is a demographic shift that affects us. We have been successful in finding innovative ways to work in this area. We’ve had the Call-a-Bus program for years.” Stowers was born and grew
COURTESY OF THE CITY OF HYATTSVILLE Emily Stowers, the cityʼs new senior services coordinator.
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things are offered only by the county,” she explained. “And we’ll look at what’s not available and build on what can be made available and what we can do through other initiatives.” One major initiative Stowers will introduce here is the Vial of Life program. It’s an information sheet for seniors and people with disabilities and it lists their medical conditions and prescriptions. The sheet goes on their refrigerators and a decal about it goes on their front doors. The idea, said Stowers, is to quickly provide police and first responders with critical information in case of emergency. Stowers said the city’s role will
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be to offer help completing the forms. “We’ll start at Friendship Arms. Our broader goal is to make this available to the wider community. It’s not a central repository; it’s private except in an emergency. Basically, the form speaks for you when you can’t speak for yourself.” Stowers urged anyone interested in the Vial of Life program to contact her at 301.985.5058 during office hours Monday through Wednesday. The Aging in Place group meets the first Wednesday of every month; the next meeting is February 1 at 7 p.m. in the municipal building.
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Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2012
MissFloribunda Dear Miss Floribunda, I heard through the grapevine that the Hyattsville Horticultural Society is going to make the seed sale an annual event and that the next one will be in early February. Is that true? If so, what will be offered that would attract bees to my garden? What with all the news of colony collapse I thought my organic garden would help bees find a nurturing home, or at least a snack bar. Yet, I’ve seen few bees in the summer. What flowers and herbs attract them? Needs to Please Bees on Nicholson Street Dear Needs to Please Bees, Yes, the Hyattsville Horticultural Society Hart Seed Sale will take place on February 11 this year at the municipal building, 4310 Gallatin Street. Take the elevator to the Mary Prangley Room on the second floor. The sale runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Not only will you find a wide array of seeds of bee-pleasing plants and herbs, but also books and pamphlets on many gardening topics, including how to attract bees and other beneficials.
As you may remember from the past, HHS expertise is not limited to gardening but extends to good cooking, too. Hot soups and baked goods will warm you as you come in out of the February frost. In the meantime, you have a spe-
Anyone concerned about our fragile ecosystem should attend Nikki Thompson’s talk on Jan. 21 about pollinators in order to understand the importance of bees. cial learning opportunity coming up on January 21. Ms. Nikki Thompson, Hyattsville’s own expert on bees, is guest speaker at the HHS January meeting. This is also located at the municipal center, but in the multipurpose room on the first floor. Ms. Thompson will give a Power Point presentation on native pollinators, which of course includes bees. The presentation is open to the public,
and I encourage you to attend. In fact, anyone concerned about our fragile ecosystem ought to attend in order to understand the importance of bees and other pollinators and what we can do to help. Now for specifics. The Hart collection includes an extensive selection of bee favorites: 10 varieties of sunflower, 11 varieties of zinnias, 4 varieties of poppies, 3 varieties of cosmos, 4 varieties of nasturtiums, and other pollen and/or nectarrich flowers. These include heirloom varieties and a wildflower mix. In addition, you can choose from among 22 varieties of beeattracting pumpkins and squash as well as the herbs bees love most: fennell, bergamot, thyme, anise, chives, borage, sage, lavender and even catmint. I would also like to emphasize that the Hart company, the oldest seed grower in the country still owned by the same family, pledges that none of their seeds are genetically modified. Both you and are your bees are safe when you grow flowers and vegetables from Hart seeds. Thank you for your interest in bees and I hope to see you and other responsible gardeners at Ms. Thompson’s talk and as well as at the seed sale.
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Page 7
County finds unexpected place to make cuts by Chris Currie
While the Hyattsville City Council debates how to direct more resources toward restoring Hyattsville’s tree canopy, another government agency apparently believes the city has too many shade trees — or had, until last month. A row of trees that had been a fixture of the Queens Chapel Town Center streetscape since the 1990s suddenly disappeared
“We understand that some of the businesses complained that the trees blocked their signs.” — Abby Sandel City communications manager one day in early December, startling passersby in the West Hyattsville neighborhood as well as city officials. The city had paid for the trees as part of a project to upgrade the highly visible commercial corridor on Queens Chapel Road, Hamilton Street and Ager Road. The city quickly determined that the tree removal was conducted by a contractor hired by the Prince George’s County Department of Public Works and Transportation (DPW&T). According to spokespersons for both entities, the county agency removed the trees following a request by the management company that runs the shopping center. “We understand that some of the businesses complained that the trees blocked their signs,”
said Hyattsville Communications Manager Abby Sandel. However, DPW&T Public Information Officer Susan D. Hubbard stated that the agency does not remove trees to provide better visibility of commercial signage. According to Hubbard, the tree removal was approved because of safety and security concerns. “Due to their root system, they had created trip hazards in the sidewalk area, which is where the roots mature and grow under and up through the sidewalk, disturbing the concrete sidewalk,” she said. “In addition, the trees were a security concern associated with the shopping center.” This reporter examined the sidewalk around all 40 tree boxes in the corridor and was unable to find evidence of any cracking; however, a slab of concrete next to one of the boxes had heaved slightly, creating a one-inch lip at the adjacent slab. A few other slabs, not near tree boxes, showed similar movement. Hubbard asserted that DPW&T was not required to give notice to the city when the decision was made to clear-cut the street trees: “As the trees were in the county-maintained right-of-way, permission and/or notice were not required.” But of the 35 trees that were removed, little more than half were on the county right-ofway. Eight were in the rightof-way on Queens Chapel controlled by the Maryland State Highway Administration, and seven were on the city-maintained 31st Avenue. Four trees adjacent to the shopping center, all of which were on the county right-of-way on Hamilton or Ager, were not removed. And all street trees on the medi-
top photo: COSTAR. RIGHT: CHRIS CURRIE An undated photo shows the streetscape before December’s removal of 35 trees near Queens Chapel Town Center. Below: Tree boxes are all that’s left in the newly desolate landscape of 31st Avenue.
an and the opposite side of Hamilton Street were spared. Four tree boxes have been replanted with tall shrubs. According to Hubbard, the remaining boxes will be replanted in the spring. “The trees will be replaced with more appropriate trees for the right-of-way within that area,” she said. City officials expect to be part of the streetscape planning. “We’re working with the landscape architect on the replacement plan now, but it will be reviewed internally and possibly by Council,” Sandel stated.
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Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2012
the
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Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2012
No. 232• January 11, 2012
ANNOUNCEMENTS
IN OTHER NEWS...
Coming Attractions
CLAUS APPLAUSE AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED
The Department of Recreation and the Arts has been planning the 2012 Events Calendar. Please note that this calendar is subject to changes, and we anticipate several additions in the next few months!
Did you miss the big announcement about the Claus Applause award winners? At the Council Meeting of Monday, January 9, award recipients were acknowledged for decking the halls in 2011. From the glitziest to the greenest, check out all of the winners at http://www.hyattsville. org/applause. Missed your chance to compete? The Office of Code Enforcement will award Curb Applause awards again this Spring. Watch future editions for the announcement.
January 20 Children’s Bingo Magruder Park Recreation Center 7:00 PM February 18 Parent & Child Sweetheart Dance City Municipal Building 5:00 to 7:00 PM
April 14 126th Anniversary Parade & Carnival* Parade steps off in front of Hyattsville Middle School; Carnival takes place in Magruder Park * Note: Complete Carnival dates and times to be announced in February 2012 May 11 Summer Jam concert series, City Municipal Building, 6:30 to 8:30 PM June 8 Summer Jam concert series, City Municipal Building, 6:30 to 8:30 PM
August 7 National Night Out Against Crime, Magruder Park, 7:00 pm August 10 Summer Jam concert series, City Municipal Building, 6:30 to 8:30 PM September 14 Summer Jam concert series & Police Department Open House, City Municipal Building, 6:30 to 8:30 PM October 27 Fall Spooky Fest, Location TBA, 2:00 to 4:00 PM December 7 Holiday Tree Lighting, Magruder Park, 7:00 PM December 8 Breakfast with Santa & Lunch with Santa, City Municipal Building 10:00 AM & 12:30 PM December 12 Claus Applause Contest Judging, City-wide, 7:00 PM
Spring break camp escape returns
The Department of Recreation and the Arts offers a fun-filled week in Magruder Park for kids ages 4 through 12 during the Prince George’s County Public Schools Spring Break Week. This week’s camp takes place from Monday, April 2 through Friday, April 6. Camp counselors strive to foster creativity and confidence in each child. Activities range from games and sports to arts, crafts, and eco-themed projects. Regular camp hours are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The week-long camp costs $100 per camper. Before Care is available from 7:30 to 9:00 AM at $3/ day, and After Care is offered from 5:00 to 6:00 PM, also at $3/day. Lunch and snack are included in the
camp rate, and Before Care also includes breakfast. Registration opens for City residents on Tuesday, January 17. General registration opens on Wednesday, February 8. City resident registration opens Tuesday, January 17. General registration opens Monday, February 8. Baseball fan? Ask about our special half-day baseball clinic option for the same week. Already thinking about summer? We will also open City resident pre-registration for Summer Camps on Tuesday, January 17. For more information visit http://www.hyattsville.org/camps
MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR HOLIDAY TRASH CHANGES The City is Monday, January 16, 2012 in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. As a result, there is no Yard Waste pick-up on Monday, January 16, City-wide. Questions? Please call the Department of Public Works at 301/985-5032.
NORTHWESTERN HIGH SCHOOL CONVERSATION ON CULTURAL & LINGUISTIC ISSUES There will be a conversation on cultural and linguistic issues faced by Latino families and communities at Northwestern High School on Saturday, January 28, 2012 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Northwestern is located at 7000 Adelphi Road in Hyattsville. Spanish and English translations will be provided, and the conversation will be guided by Spanish and Portuguese professors from the University of Maryland. Topics will include the importance of school in the Latino
Jan. 10
Spring 2012 semester of the Parent & Child Program begins, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Magruder Park Recreation Center, 3911 Hamilton Street
Jan. 13
Deadline to submit entries for Martin Luther King, Jr. Poster Contest, 5:00 PM
Jan. 16
Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday City Administrative offices closed. No Yard Waste pick-up, Citywide, this week..
Jan. 17
Spring Break Camp Escape Resident Registration opens, 9:00 AM
City Council Work Session/Special Council Meeting, 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Jan. 20
Children’s Bingo, 7:00 PM Magruder Park Recreation Center, 3911 Hamilton Street
Jan. 23
Community Meeting - Infrastructure Improvements Banner Street, Buchanan Street, Crittenden Street, 40th Avenue, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM City Council Meeting, 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Jan. 30 Public Hearing: Redistricting Committee - Preliminary Plans, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
2012 TREE COLLECTION Christmas trees can be put out for pick-up with Yard Waste after the holidays. Remaining January 2012 Yard Waste pick-up dates are 1/23, and 1/30; however, we will accept the trees during any pick-up, if you deck the halls into March. Please remove all lights, tinsel, ornaments, and other decorations before placing curbside. No bags are required.
JANUARY 2012
Public Hearing: Withdraw Residential Parking for the 5000 block of 36th Place, 7:30 PM - 8:00 PM
The Department of Recreation and the Arts announces the 2012 Martin Luther King, Jr. poster contest. Hyattsville students – students who either reside within the City limits or attend a school located within the City limits - in grades 5-8 are invited to enter. The theme for this year’s contest is centered around Dr. King’s commitment to community and service, which were components that he believed were essential to the struggle for equality. See more on the theme, as well as guidelines and official rules at http:// www.hyattsville.org/mlkposter. Entries are due no later than January 13, 2012 at 5:00 PM. Questions? Call 301/985-5020.
The Great Magruder Egg Hunt, Magruder Park, 11:00 AM to noon.
CALENDAR
Planning Committee Meeting, 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
2012 MLK POSTER CONTEST
April 7 Pancake Breakfast, Magruder Park, 9:00 to 11:00 AM
July 13 Summer Jam concert series, City Municipal Building, 6:30 to 8:30 PM
family, support systems for Latino families, language barriers, preparing for higher education, and more. The meeting will take place in the school’s cafeteria. Please use the main entrance and follow the signs to the cafeteria. Questions? Contact ssbryan@umd.edu or 301/314-8342.
Page HR2
CALL FOR GROUPS TO MARCH IN ANNIVERSARY PARADE The City’s 126th Anniversary Parade will take place on Saturday, April 14, 2012. Community groups, youth groups, classic car drivers, marching bands, step teams, fire and police units, and other civic organizations are invited to participate! Please visit http://www.hyattsville.org/ parade for details, including a registration form.
PARENT & CHILD PROGRAM RETURNS JAN 10 The City’s favorite playdate returns to Magruder Park on Tuesday, January 10! The program allows parents and other caregivers to bring preschoolers to the Recreation Building at Magruder Park for playtime and crafts. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The program runs each Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, through the school year, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The cost is $75/semester for one child; $125/semester for two children; or $150/ semester for three children. Or, pay on a drop-in basis, just $3/session. Payment may be made by cash, money order, or check made payable to City of Hyattsville. For information or to register, contact Terry Kenny by phone at 301/985-5024. Drop-in registration is also available during program hours.
Unless otherwise noted, all events take place at the City Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street.
REDISTRICTING COMMITTEE: NEXT MEETING JAN 30 As required by law, a Council-appointed committee is currently preparing a redistricting plan for the City of Hyattsville. The plan will re-align the City’s five Wards to reflect 2010 Census data. The process is projected to be completed in late April 2012 and presented for Council approval. All meetings of the Redistricting Committee are open to the public, and will take place at the City Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street. The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 30 at 7:00 PM.
NIXLE The City is now using Nixle to send public safety alerts and information via both email and text message. This system replaces the SafeCity website previously in use. Many of our neighboring jurisdictions also use Nixle to send out information. If you have a nixle.com account, there is no need to create a new one. Simply log in and add the City of Hyattsville to your wire. New to Nixle? Register at www.nixle.com or enroll using the widget online at http://www.hyattsville.org/stayinformed.
FIND US ON FACEBOOK Are you on Facebook? You can now keep up with City events and happenings at www.facebook.com/cityofhyattsville. When you see Vainglorious, the silver metal bird sculpture at Centennial Park, you’ll know you’re in the right place. He is kind enough to serve as the City’s wall photo.
Page 8
Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2012
COMMUNITY CALENDAR January 20
January 21
traditional puppeteering with Eureka, a show that combines elements of Victorian magic-lantern shows and shadow puppetry. $20, with discounts for students, seniors and youth. 8 p.m. Joe’s Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Road, Mount Rainier. 301.699.1819. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.joesmovement.org.
The library’s Author Reading Program showcases local writers and their work. This afternoon, longtime Hyattsville resident David Levy will be giving a talk about his environmental fiction novel, Revolt of the Animals. Free. 1 p.m. Hyattsville Branch Library, 6530 Adelphi Road. 301.985.4690.
Young choreographers from the Washington metropolitan area present original works that open a window onto the future of dance at the 29th Annual Choreographers’ Showcase. $27. Showtimes at 3 and 8 p.m. Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, University of Maryland, College Park. 301.405.2787.
The College Park Aviation Museum kicks off its Saturday afternoon Bricks 4 Kidz LEGO® program today. Students can build unique creations and play games with the classic bricks, with themes like machines, outer space and mosaics. $145 for 12 classes, which meet twice a month (at 1 or 2 p.m. Saturdays) for six months. College Park Aviation Museum, 1985 Cpl. Frank Scott Drive, College Park. To register or for more information, call 301.864.6029 or visit www.collegeparkaviationmuseum.com.
January 30
B-I-N-G-O! Bring the kids (up to age 10) to an evening of Children’s Bingo, complete with prizes and refreshments. $3. 7 p.m. Magruder Park building, 3911 Hamilton Street. 301.985.5020.
January 28
Nana Projects puts a modern spin on
The Independent Film Series: The Cultural Exchange presents the documentary Babies, about four newborn children, in four different environments, who are followed from birth to their first birthday. The goal of the film series is to bring alternative film experiences to the residents of PG County and will conclude with a facilitated discussion with local filmmaker Andrew Millington. Refreshments will be provided. Free. 7 p.m. Hyattsville Branch Library, 6530 Adelphi Road. 301.985.4690.
Spring Break Camp Escape April 2nd - 6th Early registration opens January 17 for City of Hyattsville residents. General registration begins February 8 for all. Camp Escape offers a fun-filled Spring Break week for kids ages 5-9 and 10-13. Camp takes place at the City of Hyattsville’s Magruder Park Recreation Center, 3911 Hamilton Street. Our staff strives to foster creativity and confidence in each camper.
Campers will enjoy: • Games • Sports • Arts & Crafts • Eco-themed activities For hours, fees, and registration information, please call 301-985-5020 or visit http://www.hyattsville.org/camps
February 4 The Brentwood Arts Exchange hosts an opening reception for Rivers and Memories, an exhibit featuring the two- and three-dimensional work of longtime local artists E.J. Montgomery and Lilian T. Burwell. Free. 4 to 7 p.m. Show runs through March 24. 3901 Rhode Island Avenue, Brentwood. 301.277.2863.
February 9 The Hyattsville Preservation Association presents tips on How to Adapt your Home for Aging in Place. The Maryland Historical Trust staff will be on hand to talk about the Historic Tax Credit Program and how to qualify. Free. 7:30 p.m. Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street. 301.699.5440.
February 10 Ever wish you could waltz? Here’s your chance to learn. The Waltz Workshop with Transatlantic Crossing teaches the dance steps and offers practice time to live fiddle and guitar music. Free. 7:30 p.m. Old Parish House, 4711 Knox Road, College Park. 301.927.3013.
February 11 The Tuskegee Airmen were the first Af-
rican American military aviators in the United States Armed Services during World War II and today you have the chance to meet a member of Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. You’ll also learn about the history of the group and about the current Tuskegee Airmen organization. Free with museum admission; $4 for adult, $3 for seniors, $2 ages 18 and under. College Park Aviation Museum, 1985 Cpl. Frank Scott Drive, College Park. 301.864.6029.
February 11 and 12 During the Introduction to Glassblowing weekend course, students will learn the basic techniques of working with molten glass. They’ll also learn how to make paperweights, glass ornaments and cylinders. $350. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. DC Glassworks, 5346 46th Avenue, Edmonston. 301.927.8271.
February 12 After The Unicycle Lady demonstrates one-wheeled tricks, she’ll host a hands-on (feet-on?) workshop for young audience members. Show is free; workshop, $5. 3 p.m. Old Parish House, 4711 Knox Road, College Park. 301.927.3013.
City of Hyattsville, Maryland
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ANNOUNCEMENT Monday, January 30, 2012 7:00 p.m. Redistricting Committee – Preliminary Plans City Municipal Building 4310 Gallatin Street 3rd Floor City Council Chambers The purpose of this public hearing is to receive input from the public on the redistricting process and the needs of the City. As required by law, a Council-appointed committee is currently preparing a redistricting plan for the City of Hyattsville. The plan will re-align the City’s five Wards to reflect 2010 Census data. The process is projected to be completed in late April 2012 and presented for Council approval. All meetings of the Redistricting Committee are open to the public, and will take place at the City Municipal Building, 4310 Gallatin Street. To see a full meeting schedule for the committee go to www.hyattsville.org For more information, please contact the City Clerk’s office via email to Doug Barber, dbarber@hyattsville.org or 301/985-5009.
Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2012
SAFEWAY
continued from page 1
on December 21, transferring all prescriptions to the Rite Aid on Route 1. At about the same time, shipments became spotty; the regular arrival of two cases of weekly store circulars stopped altogether. Rumors about the store’s closing date back to 2006, when University Town Center announced that a new 56,000-square-foot Safeway would open in 2008. But financial pressures, which have since led to foreclosures, kept the developer from building it. Meanwhile, the store stayed where it was — and seemed to fall off the radar of upper management. Freezers and refrigerators regularly went on the blink, sometimes for days at a time, while various perishable items (and even some bottled ones) were left on the shelves well past their expiration dates. That drove many customers away — and those that remained grew increasingly dissatisfied. By August 2010, shoppers’ complaints had reached a crescendo on the local H.O.P.E. listserv. Then-councilmember Douglas Dudrow (Ward 1) organized a public meeting with Safeway officials drew 60 concerned residents. Many singled out store employees for praise while airing a lengthy list of grievances that included shrinking selection, long lines, wilting produce and a lack of motorized carts. Director of Public Affairs Greg Ten Eyck acknowledged that “that store was due for an upgrade probably a few years ago,” a view that seemed to be unanimous among the crowd. In 2004, the California-based company announced a goal of “lifestyling” every store in the chain, replacing existing stores with ones featuring subdued lighting, custom flooring, earth tones, wider selection and enhanced service departments. New stores would all be built as so-called Lifestyle Safeways, like the ones in Greenbelt and Hillendale. In an interview after the public meeting, Ten Eyck said he would recommend this modernization for the Hamilton Street store. Since then, though, changes have been minor and “mostly cosmetic,” he said recently. Elsewhere in the region, three stores in Montgomery are being transformed into the new model. The revamped Bethesda location opened in October, and Olney’s should open next month. Wheaton’s is in progress, part of a large revitalization plan that should be completed next year. Hyattsville becomes the fourth store in Prince George’s County
Page 9
The lost art of independent pharmacies by Scarlett Salem
The pharmacy landscape has changed drastically over the past few decades. Once a personalized service provided by independent retailers, it is now dominated by chain stores. They offer a one-stop shopping experience: buy your groceries, pick up your prescription and – in pre-digital camera days – get your pictures developed, all in the same store. Now, independent pharmacies are few and far between, as more people choose convenience over personalized attention. But at what cost? Richard Sabatelli has owned one of the area’s last non-chain drugstores, Lawson’s Pharmacy at 3415 Hamilton Street, for 29 years. With the demise of the independent pharmacy, he said, familiarity has been sacrificed for convenience. “On our worst day, we are still better than [chains],” he maintains. “The people are more family than they are customers. Because you have been with them for 29 years, you get to know them. It makes for an entirely different atmosphere.” In 1925, the original “Doc” Lawson came over from Germany, where he was a physician. When he wasn’t allowed to practice medicine in the U.S., he decided to open a pharmacy in Cottage City, the first in Prince George’s County. It moved to Route 1 near DeMatha High School before settling into its current West Hyattsville location in the early 1960s. Sabatelli, who lives in Laurel, began his pharmacy career as intern at Read’s Drug Store (now Rite Aid) and went on to work at People’s Drug (now CVS) for about six years. During a job-hunt in 1983, he got a call from an interviewer he had met the previous day. The man suggested that Sabatelli consider running his own shop, and gave him the number of a store that had been recently been on the lookout for buyers.
susie currie Independent pharmacist Richard Sabatelli prepares prescriptions at Lawson’s.
Lawson’s son, Alfred, had decided to sell. “I feel in debt to the Lawsons because out of the 10 people that bid on the store, they picked me,” said Sabatelli. “I was very honored and very lucky … I’ve tried to continue their legacy.” Looking at the exterior of the building that houses the pharmacy, it looks like not much has changed since he bought it. But once inside, you can understand why customers are so fond of it. Patron Helen Knowles said, “One of the many reasons I like Lawson’s Pharmacy is the hometown feel. Richard is interested in his customers, and keeps up-to-date with what’s going on in our family.” Another regular, Jonathan Alexander, said, “I feel like I am connected to and supporting the anti-big-box, family-owned-andoperated business when I walk in.” It differs from chains in other ways, too. According to Sabatelli, wait times there are much shorter than at a chain pharmacy, especially if customers call ahead. “And if we don’t have something, then I will call and tell you, because that’s what I would want,”
susie currie The empty pharmacy was the most recent indication to shoppers of the imminent store closing.
to close since May; others were in Temple Hills, Upper Marlboro and District Heights. Manager of Public Affairs Craig Muckle says that the company is considering rebuilding stores in Croom and Bowie, although nothing is in the pipeline yet. The most recent opening in Prince George’s County was a
store in Brandywine, in 2009. Before that, it was Bowie in 2006. “I was disappointed but not surprised,” said Dudrow of the imminent closing. “The [officials] did say at the end of the meeting that they would take it back to headquarters. Maybe the decision was already made. ”
he said. Also, you won’t find many golden retrievers behind the counter at Walgreens. (Buddy, a fixture in the pharmacy, is the third.) And Sabatelli will deliver, for a $3 fee, to those in the immediate area who don’t have a way to get to the store. He says the biggest challenge of owning an independent pharmacy is the common perception that prices are higher. “A lot of people [think] that if you’re an independent pharmacy your prices are higher, which is not the case. You might sell [over-the-counter drugs] at a higher price … but with insurance plans, you’ll pay the same co-pay [for prescription drugs] no matter where you go.” Since the Safeway Pharmacy next door closed in December, he has been getting “2 or 3” new customers a day from there. “It’s been a good run and it looks like it’s going to get a bit better,” he said. “Hopefully there is another Mr. Lawson out there who can take my place someday. My goal is to make sure this place makes it to 100 years.”
Page 10
Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2012
COMMENTARY & OPINION ON HISTORY & POLITICS
Hugh’sNews
Citizens as sovereigns ed in a neighborhood plagued by 110 gun crimes in the past The United States leads the world year, including assaults, robwith the highest percentage of beries and killings. His sisterits population in prison. Maybe in-law hid a shotgun in the it’s time to consider whether it shop for protection. Acting makes sense to incarcerate harm- on a tip, police found the gun less people. and charged Hines with beThe recent case of Malcolm ing a felon in possession of a Hines, 40, is a good example. gun. Now, after his conviction After being released from prison in October, he faces a miniin 2007 for a cocaine-dealing mum of three years in prison. charge, Hines has been an upThe conviction may make the standing citizen operating a shoe judge and prosecutor look tough store on Martin Luther King Av- on crime, but dangerous crimienue in Southeast D.C. He is a nals still roam the streets. While husband and a father. he was awaiting sentencing, His store had a string of bur- gunmen robbed Hines’ store — glaries and holdups; it’s locat- again. by Hugh Turley
juror, “It is not only his right, but his duty … to find the verdict according to his own best understanding, judgment and conscience, though in direct opHines was not accused of position to the direction of the harming anyone. Perhaps the court.” jury should have considered When a jury votes to acquit whether the community (not because it deems a law to be to mention the Hines family) unjust, it is called jury nulare well served by putting him lification, a process that prein prison? Is it a good law? Is dates the U.S. Constitution. the law being justly applied? In 17th-century England, Does the punishment fit the William Penn, a Quaker, was crime? charged with preaching an illeAccording to Hines’ wife, Sher- gal religion. A jury found him ita, the judge instructed the jury not guilty despite clear guilt that “if it is reasonable to believe because they refused to punthat Mr. Hines knew there was a ish him for worshipping God gun in the shop, then you must according to his beliefs. Freefind him guilty.” dom of religion and trial by Sadly, the jury was not fully in- jury were carried over to the formed about its role. In 1717, American colonies. John Adams said of the trial Jurors can act as sovereigns
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and affirm or veto laws of questionable value that lack public support. Even as far south as Georgia during the 19th century, juries acquitted whites for aiding slaves escaping bondage. And during Prohibition, there was a 60 percent acquittal rate in alcohol prohibition cases. Citizens can veto tyrannical laws if a War on Terror turns into a war on the Bill of Rights. Jurors can act to protect the first amendment “right of the people peaceably to assemble” by refusing to convict citizens arrested for protesting. Juries serve to put criminals who harm others in prison. But they also guard against government tyranny. Shouldn’t defending constitutional rights rise above a judge’s instructions?
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Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2012
staffing
continued from page 1
benefit to looking at a bigger umbrella to organize some of these functions.” Councilmember Eric Wingard (Ward 1) said the reorganization is long overdue and that the proposal is “a good starting point for discussion.” “A couple of the things that I liked about [it] were that it
“I think we do have staffing challenges, not in the type of person or the positions themselves, but because we’re a growing city that has a wide array of residents requiring a wide array of services.” — Candace Hollingsworth Ward 1 councilmember would give the city depth, which it is very much lacking, and it would bring together a few departments that operationally would make sense to be under the same head.”
Page 11
Councilmember Paula Perry (Ward 4) said she thought the proposed department was too large and all the parts wouldn’t mesh well together, but added, “It’s only the beginning of the conversation [about reorganizing]. I want to hear other council members’ ideas, because we have a lot of talent here.” Reorganizing the staff is not a new idea. Mayor Marc Tartaro said TATC, a consultant with the city, did an efficiency study about three or four years ago and made about 50 recommendations. “We have a number of functions where we need to look at where people report and how they interact with each other. There’s a tendency to have silos in organizations, where information runs up and down vertically and isn’t shared horizontally. If people were communicating horizontally, there’d be a lot of power in that.” He said Sandel’s plan is an illustration of that. “Where we end up may be different, but there’s a great deal of value in what she’s thought about.” The city has been facing a lot of staff turnover in the last few years. But there is progress. The search committee for hiring a human resources director – a task at the top of many council members’ priority list – has finished
the first round of interviews and will soon start a second. Tartaro said he hopes the committee will present a recommendation to the council by the end of January. On the search committee are Tartaro, Perry, Councilmember Candace Hollingsworth (Ward 1), City Treasurer Elaine Stookey, Acting City Administrator Douglas Holland and former Ward 2 representative Bill Tierney. Hollingsworth said that the new hire would “fill some of the gaps we have from the turnover and maybe revisit our organizational structure as a whole.” “I think we do have staffing challenges, not in the type of person in the positions or the positions themselves, but because we’re a growing city that has a wide array of residents requiring a wide array of services.”
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A History of Hyattsville Page 12
Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2012
By
Readers may remember that the last Legend & Lore took a look at our local history with a timeline that ran from 1608 to 1886, when Hyattsville was incorporated. At the time, it had four churches, three grocery stores, three butcher shops, a drygoods business, blacksmith and tinsmith shops, a livery stable, two fire halls, and a land office. Some time later, a publication called The Suburban Citizen called Hyattsville “a beautiful village,” adding that “its surroundings are all of the most delightful character, and as a business or
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residential location it cannot be surpassed, nesting as it does on and around a beautiful chain of Maryland hills.” We pick up the tale in 1892 ….
installed, costing taxpayers $30,000. It seems outdoor privies remained popular; a year later, only 92 households had actually obtained permits.
1892—Hyattsville gains national attention when it adopts the “single tax system” wherein property owners are taxed solely on land and not houses or improvements. The single tax system is eventually declared unconstitutional by the Maryland Court of Appeals. (Folks, this was our fifteen minutes of fame and it had to do with taxes? Surely we can do better than that.)
1908—The first speed limit was imposed on Hyattsville residents. This law pertained to “automobiles, locomobiles, or any other kinds of vehicle whether propelled by gasoline, electricity, or any other power; of horses attached to carriages, wagons or buggies; and of bicycles or any vehicle traveling the city streets.” Roller skates are banned from sidewalks.
1898—A severe drought results in residents locking their wells and guarding them with shotguns in hand. This situation renews efforts to provide public water to Hyattsville residents.
1910—Hyattsville Hardware store opens and stays in continuous operation until 1992. Trains from Baltimore stopped at the back of the store to deliver everything from nuts and bolts to kit houses.
1899—Streetcars come to Hyattsville, connecting our town to Washington, D.C., and making for easy commutes up and down Route 1.
1911—The 25th anniversary of our town. No word on whether gifts of silver were exchanged.
1900—Michael V. Tierney was elected Hyattsville’s first mayor, starting many years of distinguished service to the city by the Tierney family. The first city council is also seated. 1901—Eighteen technologically advanced citizens subscribe to the Southern Maryland Telephone Company, which established lines along Baltimore Avenue/Route 1. 1904—A sewage system is
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1912—The first municipal building is erected at what is now 4334 Farragut Street. Total cost: $6,555. 1915—A central high school is built. Land near the site rises in value, and locals see the emergence of Ellaville and Hyattsville Hills (which we should rename Hyattsville Hill, since there is only one). 1916—The Hyattsville Horticultural Association is founded with the motto “Horti Meliora Domicilla” (“Better Gardens make Better Homes”). This HHA lasts until 1987. It is revived in 2006 and continues to meet monthly. 1918—World War I ends. Hyattsville men come marching home and housing development is spurred by young families moving to the area. The bungalow is the most popular housing style around. 1919—Hyattsville welcomes home its WWI vets, including those from “Company F,” with a grand parade and dance held at the Armory. 1920—After landing headfirst in a full barrel containing the contents of Hyattsville’s emptied privies, Mrs. Hezekiah Bailey is rushed to the Casualty Hospital with the ambulance windows fully open.
Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2012
1921—Women vote for the first time in Hyattsville’s elections, doubling the number of votes. Because the women’s vote helped elect him, Mayor J. Frank Rushe is dubbed “a Lady’s Man.” Also this year, the Women’s Club of Hyattsville opens Hyattsville’s first public library. 1935—Our post office was built as part of the New Deal Administration’s attention to public buildings. The P.O. includes historic murals by nationally known landscape artist Eugene Kingman. Kingman’s commission for the murals stipulated scenes from the Hyattsville countryside. If you want to get a feel for what Hyattsville looked like in the mid-1930s, go mail a letter. 1940 — Street names are changed to conform to the street pattern established in Washington, DC. 1940s & 50s—The high concentration of automobile showrooms and businesses along Route 1 earn it the nickname “Auto Alley.” The historic Lustine Building was erected in 1950, heralding 20 years of prosperity, as the Lustine franchise was one of Chevrolet’s most profitable in the country. 1942—Rationing of rubber, sugar and gas to help with the war effort is enforced. To encourage victory gardens, the Maryland Park and Planning Commission made beanpoles available for pickup.
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1944—Among the festivities at the ninth annual Easter Egg Hunt in Magruder Park was a kid-calling contest. The winner, featured on the cover of the book Images of America: Hyattsville, continued her four-year winning streak by “calling” her son home from war in the South Pacific. 1945—Area children are disappointed when the city council votes to curtail their “sledding privileges” to Jefferson Avenue. 1949—Hyattsville residents dub themselves “Tree City USA” with the slogan “Woodman, Spare That Tree,” and tree planting in the city becomes a tradition. The official designation from the National Arbor Day Foundation comes in 1986, during Hyattsville’s centennial year.
1979— The Hyattsville Preservation Association is formed. It is a civic association committed to preserving Hyattsville’s historic character and structures and to serving home owners through the exchange of information on preserving older homes. 1982—A significant portion of Hyattsville’s residential district is designated an historic district and added to the National Register of Historic Places. 1983—The last “bath with a
1956—Charles Caldwell and Don de Julius installed a theater-size Wurlitzer organ in their basement and evidently “entertained the entire neighborhood” with their music. 1958—Streetcar service from Washington, D.C. closes. Businesses in town begin to lose business to Prince George’s Plaza when it opens the following year. 1967—The TESST School opens its doors to students who were “eager to learn the latest in solid state technology” — that is, electronics and circuitry.
path” (outdoor privy) is razed. 1986—Hyattsville celebrates its 100th anniversary. Mayor Thomas Bass uses the occasion to commend the many houses of worship, seven private and public schools, a number of well-known businesses, and the extensive library and park system. 1992—Longtime resident Mike Franklin opens Franklins General Store, “helping to recapture the spirit of the bustling community,” as stated on its website, and encourag-
ing a renaissance of Hyattsville historic downtown core. The brewpub addition was built in 2002. 2004—The historic district is expanded to include approximately 1,000 structures, most of which are residential. Today—Hyattsville is experiencing a renaissance with a designated Arts District, new townhomes, restaurants, grocery stores and businesses opening along the Route 1 and East-West Highway corridors.
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Kid friendly music, Refreshments Tickets: $5.00 per guest Children must be accompanied by an adult throughout the evening. Reservations required: City of Hyattsville, Department of Recreation and the Arts. Call 301-985-5020 or visit www.hyattsville.org/jukebox
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Hyattsville Life & Times | January 2012
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