By KIT SLACK
Candidates for Prince George’s County Executive have filed their first campaign finance reports for the March 4 primary election race.
Below, candidates are listed from the highest campaign account balance to the lowest. This snapshot is based on campaign finance reports filed by the Feb. 4 deadline and a review of contributions in December and January.
By HEATHER WRIGHT
Last spring, while volunteering at a day program in Barcelona for those with disabilities, Rachel Fredman struggled with Spanish words during a charades-like game. Members of the disability community coached her, helping her expand her Spanish vocabulary. That experience propelled her
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By GRIFFIN LIMERICK
The West Hyattsville-Queens Chapel Sector Plan — originally formulated in January 2022 with the stated intent of providing greater housing variety, density and walkability near the Hyattsville metro stations — was sent back to staff for a rewrite a second time by the Prince George’s County Planning Board on Jan. 9. The planning board asked staff to address concerns that the plan
would displace residents from affordable housing rather than increase the number of affordable units, to update the plan in accordance with new state and county legislation, and to reconsider new construction in the flood plain.
Making or displacing affordable housing?
At the Jan. 21 Hyattsville City Council meeting, Lakisha Hull, director of the Prince George’s County Planning Department,
repeatedly stressed the need for more “missing middle housing”
— a concept championed by the city council in an Aug. 6, 2024, letter to the county planning board that emphasized “the need for a comprehensive Missing Middle Housing study.”
In her presentation, Hull defined missing middle housing as duplexes, triplexes and other structures that allow for greater population density on a single plot of land, including townhouses and live–work
structures — essentially hybrid spaces where residents’ offices are located in the same building in which they live, and sometimes even in the unit itself.
The construction of more missing middle housing, according to Hull, would yield greater housing variety “at all income point levels,” particularly affordable units for lowerincome residents.
“We’re trying to address hous-
By JESSICA ARENDS
On Jan. 11, the D.C. Office of the Attorney General (OAG) sued the U.S. for polluting the Anacostia River at several sites since the early 1900s, including Kenilworth Park. According to the OAG press release, the Office is asking the federal government to pay to clean up the river to ensure it is safe again for fishing, swimming and wildlife.
The Anacostia River watershed is home to more than 800,000 people, including Hyattsville residents, 43 species of fish and 200 species of birds, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
“It would be wonderful if people who live in Hyattsville could enjoy a clean river,” Hyattsvillian Celeste O’Neill said. As a rower and rowing coach, O’Neill is on the river three to four times a week. Launching from Bladensburg Waterfront Park, she often observes trash and slick spots on the surface and foul smells of pollution in the water. If a rower accidentally falls in, they are pulled out of the water immediately and hosed down, and their eyes are cleaned with antiseptic wipes, according to O’Neill.
“It’s really depressing sometimes. I feel bad for the wildlife. It would be great to be able to touch the water and not be scared all the time,” O’Neill said.
Many of the pollutants found
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in the Anacostia River do not break down and cause longlasting harm to the environment, aquatic wildlife, and human health, according to the OAG press release. Health risks from these pollutants include cancer, neurological and developmental disorders, birth defects, asthma, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other conditions.
According to the OAG, the lawsuit aims to hold the U.S. financially accountable for the damage it has “knowingly
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and intentionally caused,” especially considering how communities of color living east of the Anacostia have been disproportionately harmed by the pollutants.
“Throughout history, the U.S. government has unjustly ignored the exposure of communities of color to pollution, resulting in significant environmental, climate, and health challenges impacting Black, Brown and other marginalized communities,” said Carmel Henry, president of the NAACP
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rard in the OAG press release. According to the Anacostia Watershed Society, freshwater species such as fish, crabs, crawfish and shrimp are disappearing at twice the rate of their dryland and ocean counterparts, with the biggest fish declining by 90%. River-dependent animals, like the beaver and otter, are returning to the Anacostia after a long absence, and levels of pollutants like PCBs, which are fatal to fish populations, are decreasing, but work still remains to bring Anacostia wildlife back to health, including its edible fish.
In 2021, the District’s Anacostia River Sediment Project informed entities who have polluted the Anacostia — including the federal government — of their obligation to pay for cleanup efforts which are set to begin this year. Thus far, according to the press release, the U.S. has refused to accept responsibility for the cleanup.
DC Branch, in the OAG press release. “As the nation’s Capital, the District should be a premier model for residents to access waterways which are safe, swimmable and fishable.”
Segregation policies in the 1950s allowed the District to create an illegal dump site along the Anacostia in the Kenilworth neighborhood of Ward 7 where trash leaked into the river and was burned regularly for 25 years, according to a The DC Line article. The burning produced air pollution comparable to the output of 1.5 million cars, according to a 1966 DC Health Department report cited in the article. The facility was closed in 1968 in response to protests following a 7-yearold boy’s tragic death at the dump. The dump site was then turned into Kenilworth Park despite numerous rounds of positive pollutant testing, which the National Park Service continues to call for today.
Trey Sherard serves as the riverkeeper at the Anacostia Riverkeeper, a local nonprofit that works to protect and restore the Anacostia. “Anacostia Riverkeeper is proud to see the District’s Office of the Attorney General bring this major suit against the U.S. government for their reckless and significant pollution of the Anacostia River for over 150 years,” stated She-
The Anacostia Riverkeeper monitors the health of the river by regularly assessing E. coli bacteria, turbidity and pH levels through water sampling. According to the nonprofit’s 2024 monitoring report, the main stream sites of the Anacostia River received a passing score 57% of the time, and none of the tributary sites received a passing score.
The Anacostia Watershed Society is addressing pollution by restoring freshwater mussels to the River through its Adopt A Mussel program. As of 2022, the organization has placed 35,000 mussels, which are very efficient at filtering sediment and bacteria from the water, into the Anacostia River.
The lawsuit names toxic waste dumping from several sites, including shipbuilding and gun manufacturing at the Navy Yard, the Kenilworth Landfill and the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing, which dumps toxic chemicals directly into the Tidal Basin and the Washington Channel. Dredging the river bottom and poor sewage and wastewater management have also significantly contributed to toxic waste in the waterway, according to the press release.
“I think the lawsuit could have an impact if it holds companies accountable,” O’Neill said. “As long as polluting is a cheaper option, people will continue to do it. It’s just human nature.”
Jessica Arends is the arts, culture and lifestyle columnist for the Life & Times
By Streetcar Suburbs Staff
Prince George’s County residents are getting ballots in the mail for a March 4 special primary election. Because the county is overwhelmingly Democratic, that primary election will almost certainly determine who will be our next county executive.
Senator Angela Alsobrooks stepped down as county executive Dec. 2, 2024, following her election to the U.S. Senate in November.
Streetcar Suburbs and The Bowie Sun reached out to all the candidates who are competing to replace Alsobrooks. We asked each candidate two questions:
• What have you accomplished for your community that makes you most proud, as a public servant, leader or advocate?
• What do you most hope to accomplish during your first term?
Their responses follow. Read more in our online version of this guide, which includes endorsements and candidates’ thoughts on spending and the county budget: shorturl.at/O4Mjt.
Braveboy
Residence:
Upper Marlboro Age: 50
Accomplishments: I’m proud of earlier service, and most proud of delivering historic crime reduction for county residents in homicides, carjacking, and intimate partner violence, and for having positioned the office for success after me by launching three results-oriented units — the Narcotics Intelligence, Firearms, and Digital Evidence units.
raise taxes. My focus will be strengthening our finances, expanding our commercial tax base, and supporting local businesses and keeping county residents.
I will prioritize county services with a government that is available and responsive, a top-notch school system, wellmaintained streets, a focus on the needs of seniors, and a permitting system that works. Realizing development around our metro stations will attract first-time homebuyer professionals and families.
We must confront the $171 million budget deficit. I know how to partner with our federal and state partners and how to ask for what we need. And I will be a true partner with our school board and our county council; we cannot serve as a divided government.
Marcellus Crews
Residence: Upper Marlboro Age: 53
First-term goals: I will not
Accomplishments: I was hon-
ored to receive the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from [former] President Joe Biden for my dedication to service. Our efforts have included building churches and schools, raising $6.6 million to combat homelessness, and organizing bone marrow drives, which resulted in two life-saving matches within the Black American community.
First-term goals: By prioritizing economic and workforce development, the county has the potential to lead the nation in education while creating a seamless pipeline to high-paying jobs for its workforce.
Calvin Hawkins
Residence: Upper Marlboro Age: 63 Accomplishments: Over
my 30 years in government in Prince George’s County, I have shaped or led many significant advancements including the National Harbor, the Purple Line, and the 14 new schools that have been built over the past six years.
I was county council chair during the pandemic, and I passed legislation that allowed businesses to stay open, spared renters from being evicted, and expanded access to quality health care for seniors.
First-term goals: We will take the tax burden off homeowners and bring more commerce to Prince George’s County.
My administration will take a public health approach to tackle the root causes of crime like poverty, social exclusion, and education.
We will work to ensure schools are safe and modern with robust support for educators and students through ongoing professional development and resources.
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Ron Hunt
Residence:
Mitchellville Age: 63
Accomplish-
ments: Worked with police department, seniors and children in the Arthur Cappers Carrollsburg community D.C., 20 years. Worked with D.C. Councilmember Sharon Ambrose and the citizens advisory committee to the police department. Also rewrote laws for the ABC [Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis] control division during that time period.
First-term goals: 1. Stop violence on our educators and secure all schools; 2. Affordable housing and health care for our seniors; 3. Add more police officers and help rewrite laws for our police department. Our police officers are acting as janitors. Meaning, they only arrive after something happens. There must be more community policing. Believe me, if elected, I will get the job done.
Jolene Ivey Residence: Cheverly Age: 63
Accomplish-
ments: Founding Mocha Moms;
Return your ballot in the mail, or at one of the drop boxes listed on the county board of elections website: shorturl.at/EVuTN.
Vote in person during early voting Feb. 26 to March 3, at one of the locations listed at shorturl.at/ i44Gi, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day except Sunday, when the hours are noon to 6 p.m. Polls will be open on March 4 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Find more details and voter registration information at elections.maryland.gov/elections/special_elections.html.
Learn more about the candidates by attending or watching a candidate forum. The Bowie Sun, bowiesun.com, has compiled a list of the many forums taking place around the county.
funding Child Resource Connects that benefits all Prince Georgian families; ensuring that UM Capital Region Medical Center had equipment to ensure in-county sickle cell treatment; passing universal design bill incorporating inclusive designs in new builds. As a delegate, voting in favor of marriage equality and sponsoring legislation that enabled some undocumented immigrants the ability to obtain their driver’s licenses.
First-term goals: My top priorities are tackling the housing affordability crisis, improving our schools, supporting local businesses, reducing crime
through strong community and police partnerships, and creating an economic environment that attracts industries that align with our county’s vision. I have heard from residents about the inefficiencies plaguing every aspect of our county: code enforcement, permitting, trash pickup, and roadway maintenance. These challenges prevent economic investments and growth, which impacts our school system, public safety, and overall quality of life for our residents. The solution will require strategy, vision, and time to execute. We need to think ahead and lay the ground-
work for where we want Prince George’s County to be and work collaboratively with our federal, state, and municipal counterparts to realize our goals.
Albert Slocum
Residence: Landover Age: 55
Accomplishments: I have been involved with putting out fires and being a part of solutions, following through with neighborhood complaints regarding lack of street lighting or involvement with neighborhood watch on crime.
I have sat on ministries and nonprofit boards, being that conduit to legal support and fundraising to help feed and provide clothing to thousands of underprivileged and underserved families throughout the year.
As a professional in financial education and retirement planning, I helped thousands of Prince George’s County employees with retirement solutions and readiness.
I proudly served on Prince George’s County Association of Realtors Legislative Committee advocating for homeowners and real estate professionals. First-term goals: Within my first 12 to 18 months, implement an economic and crime reduction plan proposing legislation on zoning and floor area ratio, establishing a central business district, attracting larger corporations, building commonsense development that supports existing and future community benchmarks, retention of teach-
ers’ initiatives, hiring more public safety employees, improving economic growth, blueprint for curfew protocols and enforcement, deploying the workforce and local market partnership initiatives, which will focus on vocational and technical training and job security by giving Prince Georgians first right of refusal, and funding from county proprietary ventures and partnerships will help cover underperforming and underbudgeted areas, such as educational initiatives and quality living for seniors.
Tonya Sweat Residence: Accokeek Age: 52
Accomplishments: In 2016, I led the effort to re-establish the PTSA chapter at Oxon Hill High School. During my tenure as president, Oxon Hill High School was named a National PTA School of Excellence. I understand the PTSA of Oxon Hill High School continues to thrive and has grown to over 100 members. It is a testament that parents want to be engaged in their children’s education and only need a safe and welcoming space.
First-term goals: I hope to make local government more transparent and accountable to the people.
Alonzo T. Washington Residence: Greenbelt Age: 41
Accomplishments: As state senator and delegate, I have secured record funding for
public education, affordable housing, and economic development throughout the county. Some of these accomplishments for our community include: providing tuition-free community college to PGCPS [Prince George’s County Public Schools] graduates; bringing the FBI Headquarters to Greenbelt; creating $1,000 tax breaks for Maryland seniors; building six new PGCPS schools, with several more on the way; and creating the Affordable Housing Investment Trust Fund.
First-term goals: I’m running for county executive because our county is headed in the wrong direction. I’ll increase community policing, expand child care and pre-K, and stop new gas stations, smoke shops, and liquor stores. I’ll also fix the 311 system and make sure the county senior tax credit actually works. I will be a transparent, accountable, and accessible leader that our community can trust.
Rushern Baker did not submit responses to our questions by our deadline.
Jesse A.
Peed
Residence: Upper Marlboro Age: 65
Accomplishments: He has been married to his high school sweetheart for 40 years, raising their children, and building a life rooted in family and community values. He owns and operates a small business, where he has gained firsthand insight into the challenges facing small business owners and residents in Prince George’s County. Jesse has been a member of the Republican Central Committee for 12 years and is serving his third term as chair. First-term goals: His concerns for our county are protecting civil liberties, strengthening education, ensuring fiscal responsibility, fighting corruption, promoting accountability, and championing small businesses.
Jonathan White Residence: Upper Marlboro Age: 51
Accomplishments: With 30 years in the U.S. Air Force and public service, I have worked
to improve Prince George’s County. As co-chair of the Special Education Citizens’ Advisory Committee of Prince George’s County Public Schools (SECAC-PG), I focused on enhancing outcomes for students with special needs. I have also volunteered as a coach and mentor, helping young men develop character, discipline, and leadership. Additionally, I have supported initiatives related to public safety, parental rights in education, road improvements, litter removal, and senior citizen support. My work prioritizes people over politics in the decision-making process. First-term goals: As a first-term county executive, my first-term goals are: 1. Strengthening public safety: increase law enforcement support, improve training, and add more officers and firemen; 2. Enhance education: work with parents, teachers, and the community to prioritize students’ needs and respect parental rights; 3. Fix the basics: address infrastructure issues like road repairs and litter removal to ensure a cleaner, safer environment; 4. Fiscal responsibility: eliminate wasteful spending, increase transparency, and focus on essential programs benefiting residents; 5. Support vulnerable populations: expand resources for seniors and improve access to critical services.
George McDermott did not submit responses to our questions by our deadline.
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BY RICK BORCHELT
Let’s imagine a fungus and an alga, deep in the recesses of time, millions of years ago, sizing each other up in an inhospitable pile of rocks along an ancient sea until one of them says something like Humphrey Bogart’s immortal “Casablanca” line, “I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.”
The partners in this case weren’t pairing up to run an undercover gambling enterprise, like Bogart’s character Rick Blaine was hinting at, but rather to create an entirely new life form — one we know today as a lichen.
Late winter, with the leaves gone, is a great time to look in local woods, on rocks or soil, or on branches blown down in ice or snow for these remarkably diverse organisms. Many are brightly colored, some are twisted into fantastical shapes, and still others form dinner-platesized shields on bark or rock.
How this partnership originally came about is still shrouded in mystery, but the pairing has been a successful one: Today, there are more than 20,000 lichen species worldwide, and they occur in practically every habitat on the planet. Indeed, by
some estimates, lichens occupy about 7% of Earth’s surface. What we do know is that lichens are relative newcomers to the photosynthesis game. Algae and cyanobacteria, not a true bacteria at all, were the first photosynthesizers, living mostly in or near water. Fungi diverged from these ancient organisms about 1.5 billion years ago; as they did, they lost the ability to photosynthesize. Lacking that energy-producing process, they became either parasites of living plants or saprophytes — organisms which feed on decaying plant and animal matter. Early fungi were probably aquatic. By about 400 million years ago, things we would recognize today as plants had begun to evolve, with obvious roots and leaves. Ferns, mosses and other spore-bearing plants dominated the land, and fungi were also common. It wasn’t until about 250 million years ago that that secret handshake between fungi and algae gave us our first lichens. If not embarking on a gambling venture, what did these partners stand to gain from their relationship?
For the fungus partner, or mycobiont component of the lichen, the answer is easy: It gained food energy from photosynthesis, allowing it to reproduce and colo-
nize areas of bare rock, soil, bark or other substrates where readymade food wasn’t available. For the alga, or photobiont component of the lichen, the tough “skin” of fungi kept it moist and allowed it to exploit those same inhospitable, dry environments. Today’s lichens are layered, with fungus scattered throughout. There’s usually a hard upper surface (the cortex) of very dense, fibrous fungal cells, covering a layer of softer fungus cells. The lower surface has a similar layer of soft fungus cells and usually lacks the hard cortex. Sandwiched in between these two mycobiont layers are loose strands of fungus intermeshed with photosynthesizing algae. The fungi on the surface lay-
ers absorb water and some nutrients, including nitrogen, directly from the environment around them, and funnel them down to the photobiont layer.
In 1877, the German scientist Albert Bernhard Frank coined the term “symbiosis” to describe the relationship between fungi and algae; it comes straight from the ancient Greek word meaning “living together” or “companion.”
The scientific community adopted the term to describe close, long-term biological interactions between two or more species.
In recent years, researchers have discovered that lichens may have other partners in their relationships, too. A single lichen, for example, might have three or
more kinds of fungus growing as part of the same organism. The photobiont layer might also include cyanobacteria (sometimes called blue-green algae, although they are neither algae nor always blue-green), regular bacteria or yeasts. The complexity of these villages, with very distantly related community members, is one of the reasons why it’s so difficult to grow lichens in the laboratory — or to get them to grow where you want them in the garden. In our area, we have three major physical types of lichens: foliose, crustose and fruticose. Foliose lichens, which most often grow on bark or twigs, are what most people think of when they say the word “lichen.” They typically resemble leafy lettuce, although some closely resemble wispy strands of hair. Crustose lichens are flat and closely appressed to rocks or brick or other hard surfaces, and can be dull gray or white or particolored reds, yellows and oranges. In the arid Southwest, entire can-
February is Black History Month, honoring the significant contributions of Black Americans and their role in shaping our nation. Find local programs and resources at hyattsville.org/bhm.
Celebrate with the City of Hyattsville at “A Taste of Black History” on February 20, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Flavors Culinary Hub, 6504 America Blvd. Join us for an evening of music, arts and a lively discussion on the ways in which African American food traditions, brewing, and hospitality shaped American culture. Featuring small bites and a cash bar for participants 21+. Register at hyattsville.org/bhm.
Febrero es el Mes de la Historia Afroamericana, en honor a las importantes contribuciones de los estadounidenses afroamericanos y su papel en la configuración de nuestra nación. Encuentre programas y recursos locales en hyattsville.org/bhm.
Celebre con la ciudad de Hyattsville en un evento para aprender sobre la historia Afroamericana, el 20 de febrero, de 6:30 - 8:30 p. m. en Flavors Culinary Hub, 6504 America Blvd. Únase a nosotros para una velada de música, arte y una animada discusión sobre las formas en que las tradiciones gastronómicas, la elaboración de cerveza y la hospitalidad afroamericanas dieron forma a la cultura estadounidense. Con pequeños bocados y una barra de bebidas para participantes mayores de 21 años. Regístrese en hyattsville. org/bhm.
Hyattsville city offices will be closed on Monday, February 17 for Presidents Day. There will be no yard waste or compost pickup this week. All regular trash and recycling routes remain the same.
Las oficinas de la ciudad de Hyattsville estarán cerradas el lunes 17 de febrero por el Día de los Presidentes. Esta semana no habrá recolección de desechos de jardín o compostaje. Todas las rutas habituales de basura y reciclaje siguen siendo las mismas.
RUN FOR OFFICE IN THE 2025 CITY ELECTION
Show Up for Hyattsville! We’re looking for dedicated residents from all Wards to be a voice for their neighbors as Council candidates in the May 13, 2025 City election. Sound like you? Candidate registration is open from February 11March 14! A Candidate information session will be offered on March 1. Find more information and registration forms at hyattsville.org/candidates.
COMMITTEE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
Want to get involved but not ready to run for Council? Join a City Committee! Committee volunteers provide guidance to City Council on a variety of topics. Lend your expertise and make a difference in Hyattsville! Apply at hyattsville.org/ committees.
NEW: City Council recently established an Audit Committee to increase public transparency related to the City’s audit processes. If you have experience in government or business operations, municipal finance, and/or accounting – this is the committee for you! Learn more and apply at hyattsville. org/committees.
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS RESOURCES
The City of Hyattsville upholds the rights of all community members. City services remain available to all residents, regardless of background, ethnicity, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, gender, or immigration status. Everyone is encouraged to ensure they are educated about their rights and to seek assistance if needed. Find resources at hyattsville.org/assistance.
LOVE LOCAL THIS VALENTINE’S DAY!
Shop, dine, and fall in love with Hyattsville this Valentine’s Day! Discover charming local gems, delightful dining, and find the perfect gifts for your special someone. hyattsville. org/visit.
EDUCATIONAL PATH SCHORLARSHIP
The Educational Path Scholarship supports Hyattsville high school seniors and graduates pursuing post-secondary education and career paths with funding for tuition, books, or other school materials. Applications are now open for the 2025-2026 school year! Apply by March 24 at hyattsville. org/youth-scholarships.
YOUR VOICE MATTERS IN HYATTSVILLE’S EQUITY PLAN!
Hyattsville’s Draft Equity Plan, developed by the volunteerled Race and Equity Task Force, is a guide for the City to work toward greater equity, inclusion, and better quality of life for all residents. Your input is vital for a more inclusie community! Share your thoughts by March 3 in a short survey at HelloHyattsville.com.
PARKING PERMIT RENEWALS
Time to renew your Residential Parking Permit! On-street parking in Residential Parking Zones requires a valid permit during posted times. Permit renewals for Zones 3, 4 & 12 will be open from March 1 -31. Renewals are processed online only. Find the permit portal and upcoming Zone renewal dates at hyattsville.org/parking.
APPLY FOR TAX CREDITS
Don’t miss out on tax credits you are eligible for this tax season! Find information on available tax credits at hyattsville.org/assistance.
POSTÚLATE PARA UN CARGO EN LAS ELECCIONES MUNICIPALES DEL 2025
¡Hazte presente por Hyattsville! Estamos buscando residentes comprometidos de todos los distritos para ser la voz de sus vecinos como candidatos al Concejo Municipal en las elecciones del 13 de mayo del 2025. ¿Suena como tu? ¡El registro de candidatos está abierto desde el 11 de febrero hasta el 14 de marzo! Se ofrecerá una sesión informativa para candidatos el 1 de marzo. Encuentra más información y los formularios de registro en hyattsville.org/ candidates.
¡SE NECESITAN VOLUNTARIOS PARA LOS COMITÉS!
¿Quieres involucrarte pero no estás listo para postularte al Concejo? ¡Únete a un Comité de la Ciudad! Los voluntarios de los comités brindan orientación al Concejo Municipal sobre una variedad de temas. ¡Presta tu experiencia y marca la diferencia en Hyattsville! Postúlate en hyattsville.org/committees.
NOVEDAD: El Concejo Municipal estableció recientemente un Comité de Auditoría para aumentar la transparencia pública relacionada con los procesos de auditoría de la Ciudad. Si tienes experiencia en operaciones gubernamentales o empresariales, finanzas municipales y/o contabilidad, ¡este es el comité para ti! Aprende más y postúlate en hyattsville.org/committees
RECURSOS DE CONOCIMIENTO DE TUS DERECHOS
La Ciudad de Hyattsville defiende los derechos de todos los miembros de la comunidad. Los servicios de la ciudad siguen disponibles para todos los residentes, independientemente de su origen, etnia, creencias religiosas, orientación sexual, género o estatus migratorio. Se alienta a todos a asegurarse de estar informados sobre sus derechos y a buscar asistencia si es necesario. Encuentra recursos en hyattsville.org/assistance.
¡AMA LO LOCAL ESTE DÍA DE SAN VALENTÍN!
¡Compra, come y enamórate de Hyattsville este Día de San Valentín! Descubre encantadoras joyas locales, una deliciosa gastronomía y encuentra el regalo perfecto para esa persona especial. Visita hyattsville.org/visit.
BECA DE ESTUDIO: CAMINO EDUCATIVO
La Beca de Estudio Camino Educativo apoya a los estudiantes de último año de preparatoria y graduados de Hyattsville que desean continuar su educación y carrera profesional, con fondos para matrícula, libros u otros materiales escolares. ¡Las aplicaciones están abiertas para el año escolar 2025-2026! Postúlate antes del 24 de marzo en hyattsville.org/youth-scholarships.
¡TU VOZ IMPORTA EN EL PLAN DE EQUIDAD DE HYATTSVILLE!
El Borrador del Plan de Equidad de Hyattsville, desarrollado por el Comité de Raza y Equidad liderado por voluntarios, es una guía para que la Ciudad trabaje hacia una mayor equidad, inclusión y mejor calidad de vida para todos los residentes. ¡Tu opinión es vital para una comunidad más inclusiva! Comparte tus pensamientos antes del 3 de marzo en una breve encuesta en HelloHyattsville.com.
RENOVACIÓN DE PERMISOS DE ESTACIONAMIENTO
¡Es hora de renovar tu Permiso de Estacionamiento Residencial! El estacionamiento en la vía pública en las Zonas de Estacionamiento Residencial requiere un permiso válido durante los horarios establecidos. Las renovaciones de permisos para las Zonas 3, 4 y 12 estarán abiertas del 1 al 31 de marzo. Las renovaciones se procesan solo en línea. Encuentra el portal de permisos y las fechas de renovación de zonas en hyattsville.org/parking.
APLIQUE A CRÉDITOS FISCALES
¡No pierdas los créditos fiscales para los que eres elegible esta temporada de impuestos! Encuentra información sobre los créditos fiscales disponibles en hyattsville.org/assistance.
FREE ZUMBA CLASSES
Wednesdays from 4 - 5 PM at the City Building! Details at hyattsville.org/wellness.
FIELD PERMIT MEETING
Groups wishing to use City sports fields this Spring must attend a field permit meeting on Feb. 12, 7-8 PM at the City Building, 4310 Gallatin Street. Details at hyattsville.org/ calendar.
SENIORS ON THE GO
Enjoy a trip to the Laurel Dutch Market on Feb. 13 and to the National Great Blacks in Wax Museum on Feb. 27, 10 AM - 2 PM! Reserve a seat by calling (301) 985 - 5000 by 2 p.m. the Wed. before the trip.
INVASIVE REMOVAL/FOREST MAINTENANCE
Help remove invasive plants from Melrose Park, 4666 Rhode Island Ave. from 10 AM - 2 PM on Feb. 15! RVSP to environment@ hyattsville.org.
Hyattsville city offices will be closed on Monday, Feb. 17 for Presidents Day. There will be no yard waste or compost pickup this week. All regular trash and recycling routes remain the same.
FREE PRODUCE
A free produce distribution is taking place on Feb. 18 at First United Methodist Church, 6201 Belcrest Rd. starting at noon.
Older adults can join seated yoga classes on Feb. 19 & 26, 10 - 11 AM. at the Hyattsville City Building, 4310 Gallatin St. Space is limited; registration required. 301-985-5000, seniors@hyattsville.org.
Attend our next Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) meeting on Feb. 19, 6:30 PM, at the City Building. hyattsville.org/cert.
Spring and Summer camps and programs for youth and teens open for registration on Feb. 20 at 10 AM. An active RecDesk account is required to register. Visit hyattsville.org/ youth for info.
Join us for free NARCAN community trainings at the City Building on Feb. 20 at 6 PM and Feb. 21 at 10 AM A Spanish-language class will also be offered on Feb. 21 at 10 AM. For more details, visit hyattsville.org/calendar.
A TASTE OF BLACK HISTORY!
Enjoy “A Taste of Black History” on Feb. 20, 6:30-8:30 PM at Flavors Culinary Hub, 6504 America Blvd. Join us for an evening of music, arts and a lively discussion. Featuring small bites and a cash bar for participants 21+. Register: hyattsville.org/bhm.
CARE PARTNER SUPPORT GROUP
Join the City’s care partner support group on Feb. 21, 910:30 AM at the City Building. hyattsville.org/calendar.
PARENT & CHILD DANCE PARTY!
Children and their parents or guardians are invited to party together on Feb. 22 from 5-7 PM at the City Building, 4310 Gallatin Street. Enjoy familyfriendly music, refreshments, and games! Tickets are $5 per person, paid at the door. Registration required at hyattsville.org/danceparty.
LUNCH & LEARN: RECDESK SOFTWARE
Hyattsville’s older adults are invited to a free workshop on using RecDesk to register for City programs on Feb. 24, 11 AM – 1 PM at the City Building, 4310 Gallatin St. Space is limited. Register: seniors@hyattsville.org or (301) 985-5000.
CPR TRAINING
Attend a free CPR training on Feb. 25, 6:30-8:30 PM, at the City Building, 4310 Gallatin Street. English language course onlySpanish language session is full. Registration required at Hyattsville.org/calendar
EARLY DISMISSAL CAMP
Sign up for our Early Dismissal Day Camp for students from grades K - 5 at the Driskell Park Recreation Center on Feb. 28 from 10:30 AM - 5:30 PM., following the PGCPS early dismissal. hyattsville.org/minicamp.
INTERGENERATIONAL TRIP: NMAAHC
Older adults can take a trip to the National Museum of African American History and Culture in DC with members of the Hyattsville Teen Center on Feb. 28 from 2-5 p.m.! Connect with local students while learning about the richness of the African American experience. Register: 301-985-5000 or seniors@hyattsville.org
CANDIDATE INFORMATION
SESSION
Learn the steps for running for City Council at a candidate information session on March 1 from 10 AM - 12 PM at the City Building, 4310 Gallatin St.. hyattsville.org/elections.
ZUMBA GRATUITO
Miércoles de 4 - 5 PM en el Edificio Municipal. Más detalles en hyattsville.org/ wellness.
REUNIÓN DE PERMISOS DE CAMPO
Los grupos que deseen usar los campos deportivos de la ciudad esta primavera deben asistir a una reunión sobre permisos de campo el 12 de febrero, de 7 - 8 PM en el Edificio Municipal, 4310 Gallatin Street. Más detalles en hyattsville.org/calendar.
PASEOS PARA ADULTOS MAYORES
¡Viaje al Laurel Dutch Market el 13 de febrero y al Museo Nacional Great Blacks in Wax el 27 de febrero, de 10 AM - 2 PM! Reserva: (301) 9855000 antes de las 2 p.m. del miércoles anterior al paseo.
ELIMINACIÓN DE VIDES INVASORAS
¡Ayuda a eliminar las vides invasoras en Melrose Park, 4666 Rhode Island Ave. de 10 AM - 2 PM el 15 de febrero! Reserva: environment@ hyattsville.org.
CAMBIOS EN LOS SERVICIOS POR EL DÍA DEL PRESIDENTE
Las oficinas de la ciudad de Hyattsville estarán cerradas el lunes 17 de febrero por el Día del Presidente. No habrá recolección de desechos de jardinería ni de compost esta semana. Las rutas de recolección de basura y reciclaje no cambiaran.
ALIMENTOS GRATIS
Distribución gratuita de alimentos el 18 de febrero en la Iglesia Metodista Unida First, 6201 Belcrest Rd. a partir del mediodía.
YOGA SENTADO
Los adultos mayores pueden unirse a clases de yoga sentado el 19 y 26 de febrero, de 10 - 11 AM en el Edificio Municipal de Hyattsville, 4310 Gallatin St. El espacio es limitado. Registrese: 301-985-5000, seniors@hyattsville.org.
REUNIÓN DEL CERT
La reunión del Equipo de Respuesta a Emergencias Comunitarias(CERT) es el 19 de febrero, 6:30 PM, Edificio Municipal. hyattsville.org/cert.
¡CCIT Y CAMPAMENTOS DE TEMPORADA ABIERTO PARA REGISTRARSE!
¡Los campamentos y programas de temporada para jóvenes y adolescentes abren inscripciones el 20 de febrero a las 10 AM! Debe tener una cuenta activa en RecDesk para registrarse. hyattsville.org/youth.
¡ENTRENAMIENTOS
NARCAN AHORA EN ESPAÑOL!
Únete a entrenamientos gratuitos NARCAN en la comunidad en el Edificio Municipal el 20 de febrero a las 6 PM y el 21 de febrero a las 10 AM. También se ofrecerá una clase en español el 21 de febrero a las 10 AM. hyattsville.org/ calendar.
¡UN SABOR DE LA HISTORIA
AFROAMERICANA!
Disfruta de “Un Sabor de la Historia Afroamericana” el 20 de febrero, de 6:308:30 PM en Flavors Culinary Hub, 6504 America Blvd. Únete para una noche de música, arte y una animada discusión. Con bocados pequeños y un bar para participantes mayores de 21 años. hyattsville.org/bhm.
GRUPO DE APOYO
PARA CUIDADORES
Grupo de apoyo para cuidadores de la Ciudad el 21 de febrero, de 9 - 10:30 AM en el Edificio Municipal. hyattsville.org/calendar.
¡FIESTA DE BAILE PADRES E HIJOS!
¡Se invita a los niños y a sus padres o tutores a una fiesta el 22 de febrero de 5 - 7 PM en el Edificio Municipal! Disfruta de música, refrigerios y juegos. Los boletos cuestan $5 por persona, se pagan en la puerta. Registrese: hyattsville.org/danceparty.
ALMUERZO Y APRENDIZAJE: SOFTWARE RECDESK
Se invita a los adultos mayores de Hyattsville a un taller gratuito sobre cómo usar RecDesk para registrarse en programas de la Ciudad el 24 de febrero, de 11 AM - 1 PM en el Edificio Municipal. El espacio es limitado. Regístrate: (301) 985-5000.
ENTRENAMIENTO DE
Asiste a un entrenamiento gratuito de RCP el 25 de febrero, de 6:30 - 8:30 PM en el Edificio Municipal. Solo disponible en inglés, la sesión en español está llena. Hyattsville.org/calendar.
CAMPAMENTO DE SALIDA TEMPRANA
Inscríbete para nuestro campamento de Día de Salida Temprana para estudiantes de los grados K - 5 en el Driskell Park Recreation Center el 28 de febrero de 10:30 AM - 5:30 PM, siguiendo la salida temprana de PGCPS. hyattsville.org/minicamp.
INTERGENERACIONAL Los adultos mayores pueden realizar un paseo al Museo Nacional de Historia y Cultura Afroamericana en DC con miembros del Centro de Jóvenes de Hyattsville el 28 de febrero de 2 - 5 PM ¡Conéctate con estudiantes locales y aprende sobre la riqueza de la cultura afroamericana! Registrese: 301-985-5000, seniors@hyattsville.org.
SESION INFORMATIVA PARA CANDIDATOS
Sesión informativa para candidatos electorales de Mayo 2025 el 1 de marzo de 10 AM - 12 PM en el Edificio Municipal, 4310 Gallatin St. hyattsville.org/elections.
to help found Ready 4 Advocacy, a fellowship program for youth in Prince George’s County who have intellectual or developmental disabilities and want to become community advocates and leaders. The program is offered through The Arc Prince George’s County (The Arc PGC), a disability advocacy organization.
“I kind of realized that there was a lack of opportunity … for those with disabilities to be leaders,” Fredman, a University of Maryland senior who is interning with The Arc PGC, said. In its inaugural year, which began this past September, The Arc’s Ready 4 Advocacy program has 12 fellows, aged 16 to 25, who each receive a $500 stipend for their year-long participation, according to Fredman. Fellows meet twice a month, do weekly check-ins with a coach, practice social and advocacy skills, learn about mental health and wellness, volunteer for 15 hours in the community, and serve as peer ambassadors for The Arc PGC.
On Feb. 13, Fredman and other disability activists will journey to Annapolis for Developmental Disabilities Day at the Legislature (DD Day). At least three fellows from the Ready 4 Advocacy program will go with a larger group from The Arc PGC, ready and eager to practice their lead-
A play about love, loss, and a bit of magic in a fictional town: nine short stories about the residents of Almost, Maine who find themselves falling in and out of love in unexpected ways.
ership and communication skills as they advocate for disability support and awareness.
“My hope for DD Day is that people with disabilities, that we come together, and we show our legislators that we’re strong, we’re a strong community, that we have a strong voice and that we’re unified,” said Emmanuel JamesBrooks, 20, Glenarden resident and Ready 4 Advocacy fellow.
Self advocate and Temple Hills resident Nnena Wilson, who mentors program fellows and is on Ready 4 Action’s advisory board, agreed: “My hopes for the day are that, number one, the disability community comes and represents themselves strongly to let legislators know that we, as a disabled community, are here — we’re strong, and we’re powerful, and we’re not going anywhere.”
Program fellow Sheldon Brown, 19, from Upper Marlboro, told the Life & Times, “I want our budget for people with disabilities to be increased rather than be decreased.”
“Please do not reduce our budget [by] almost $200 million, please,” The Arc PGC’s Melonee Clark said. Clark, who helped found and currently supervises Ready 4 Action, said she wants to give this message to the governor during DD Day. In his fiscal year 2026 budget, Gov. Wes Moore proposed a more than $200 million cut from the Developmental Disabilities Administration. “We want to let him
NASA’s MAD Theater Presents: Almost, Maine by John Cariani
Directed by Aly Bayens & James Pildis Produced by Jon Gardner
3 weekends: March 7 - 22
Tickets: $22/$20/$12; $4 discount Mar. 7-9 www.madtheater.org
know the impact that that will have on the developmental disability community; it’s so drastic, it’s scary,” Clark, a long-time Laurel resident who has worked with The Arc PGC for more than 20 years, said.
She and Wilson both noted the impact these budget cuts would have on the disability community’s ability to access the support of direct-service professionals, or DSPs. A DSP, according to Wilson, “is an essential assistant to a person with a disability,” helping with daily living skills, like getting dressed, eating breakfast, showering, taking medicine and accessing transportation.
Brown said he also wanted to promote Eric’s ID Law during DD Day. The Maryland bill would allow people with invisible disabilities, such as autism, mental health concerns or a hearing impairment, to add an identifying logo to their state IDs.
Fredman explained that, as part of the program, the fellows have already registered to vote, practiced handshakes and ele-
vator pitches, and learned how to dress for professional occasions. They’ve learned about state and county government officials, as well as legislation impacting the disability community. They are also familiar with other programs offered by The Arc PGC.
Clark said that the fellows are learning to talk about mental health and wellness; she emphasized that this awareness helps them connect with their broader community. “[Wellness is] one thing that doesn’t have to deal with disability,” she said. “The eight dimensions of wellness is for everyone — so it’s more of an inclusive conversation that they can share with their parents, with their relatives, and know that they have that down.”
James-Brooks said that the Ready 4 Advocacy program has connected him to his community and enabled him to advocate for himself and others with disabilities. “The best part about the program is that you get to be something that’s bigger than yourself — a commu-
nity,” he explained. “Together, you and other classmates, you get to learn how to communicate and stand up for yourself.”
Fredman said that program fellows have already had opportunities for leadership with The Arc PGC. She explained how they organized and hosted a virtual game night for the community. “What I really liked about the game night was that I didn’t speak at all,” she said. “I was like, ‘This is what it’s all about.’ The program was giving a space where people with disabilities could lead.”
Clark said that the fellows will have other leadership roles, including at The Arc PGC’s summer health fair, which will be themed around mental health.
“The fellows will be taking the lead; they will be on the mic, they will be at the front greeting people, they will be hosting, facilitating some of the carnivallike games that we plan on having,” she explained. “We want to take this to another level where the fellows are in the front, and we’re in the back.”
Hyattsville and College Park, MD
Calm your inner clamor!
Mondays at 7:00 PM
St. Marks Catholic Church Hyattsville, MD
Wednesdays at 9:30 AM St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church College Park, MD
For details, contact facilitator Donna Chacko at 301-277-2970 or serenityandhealthdc@gmail.com
To learn more about Centering Prayer, go to https://www.contemplativeoutreach.org/centering-prayer-method/
yon walls and rock faces can be painted with a kaleidoscope of crustose lichens. Fruticose lichens are usually found on soil and look like miniature shrubs, often with a brightly colored top that holds reproductive cells.
Lichens play a vital role in Earth’s ecosystems, especially after landslides, floods, volcanic eruptions or other geologic activities expose raw rock and soil. They are among the very first organisms to colonize this new territory. Over centuries, the lichens trap blowing dust and detritus — and decay themselves — to create the first
Hyattsville and College Park, MD Calm your inner clamor!
soil for plants to then move in. Some lichens are of more utilitarian use. Because they absorb air pollutants, they can serve as effective biological pollution monitors. Lichen collections from Plummers Island in the Potomac River, for example, show dramatic increases in lead pollution from the early 1900s to the present day, peaking during the early 1960s, when the American Legion Bridge was built adjacent to the island. Lichen lead levels have dropped considerably on Plummers Island since lead was phased out of gasoline. But many lichen species are also very sensitive to some of the pollutants they absorb. Most of the lichen species that used
to be on Plummers Island have died out, victims of other kinds of urban air toxins. While the ancient partnership between fungus and algae has been strong for hundreds of millions of years, human alteration of the environment — for lichens as for many other living organisms — might be too rapid and too drastic even for these tough, complex communities to survive.
Have questions for Rick about the world of nature in and around the Maryland suburbs or suggestions for future columns? Drop him a note at rborchelt@gmail.com.
Dear Miss Floribunda,
I have been very upset watching coverage of the wildfires raging in California, not only because of the people and animals who are victims, but also because of the trees. In addition to the trees that burned up like firewood, I worry about what happens to the trees nearby because of the smoke. What about crops and gardens? The smoke must be suffocating at best, and with the fumes from the cars and homes that are incinerated, it must be toxic at worst. Is this as bad as I fear? What is the long-term effect?
Heartsick on Hamilton Street
Dear Heartsick,
Of course you are right to be deeply concerned, but at least I can assure you that plants do have some coping mechanisms. Like us, plants can more or less hold their breath — and for longer periods of time than we can. While we breathe through our mouths and noses, they breathe through tiny pores in their leaves, called “stomata.”
While we might shut our windows or wear masks to keep from breathing in toxins, trees can stop letting air in en-
tirely. And they don’t emit any vapor, with its precious moisture as well as oxygen. In fact, during drought, trees have been known to close their stomata for weeks. Photosynthesis is, of course, then affected, and leaves will turn brown and fall off — but most trees survive and revive once moisture is restored.
My neighbor Heather Hiker actually saw first hand the effect of this phenomenon in the summer of 2000 when she visited Mesa Verde National Park, Colo., during a vacation out West, and saw the aftermath of the July 2000 Bircher Fire. After a tour of the area that she found shocking, she went to a motel for the night. During the night, rain finally fell. When Hiker returned to the park the very next morning, she was astonished to see that grass had shot up, and brown vegetation had suddenly become green. She told me, “It was like everything was suddenly coming back to life.”
It should also be pointed out that trees native to fire zones tend to have much thicker bark than those elsewhere, which keeps extreme heat and smoke from penetrating their cores while preserving moisture. Examples are sequoias and ponderosa pines. Even trees actually burned to the ground produce fireinduced sprouts that come up out of
Wildfire smoke can have a harmful effect on vineyards as grapes suffer what is called “smoke taint.” COURTESY OF SOPHIE BACKES
the tree’s extensive root system to begin anew. Coniferous trees growing in fire zones produce serotinous cones that are more or less glued shut with a strong resin till a fire causes the resin to melt and release the seeds that can then sprout into new trees. Ashes from the trees that have become “firewood,” as you have termed it, will nourish new growth. However, even though trees in the vicinity of a forest fire may themselves survive, the smoke can have a harmful effect on vineyards even hundreds of miles away. The grapes suffer what is called “smoke taint.” Volatile phenols penetrate the skins of grapes and impart tastes that can range from a mildly pleasant mesquite or clove flavor to nasty tar notes that make any of the wine impossible to choke down. Research is underway to develop sprays that can be used to protect grapes once smoke detectors indicate that the air has become
dangerously polluted; thicker-skinned grapes, such as those for syrah and chardonnay, are finding favor with viniculturists; and processes to remove smoke contaminants during wine-making, such as cold maceration, are being explored.
Although grapes are the fruit most vulnerable to smoke taint, lettuce and leafy vegetables can suffer short-term damage, as well. Over the years, numerous tests by the University of California, Davis; the University of Oregon; and the University of Colorado indicate that exposed vegetables, once washed, are safe to eat. Most shrubs will perk up once the smoke lifts and photosynthesis resumes. However, human beings in forest fire vicinities are not encouraged to go out and garden till the smoke has cleared. Humans have no immunity to the toxins in the air and should stay inside or leave the area. Our mobility is the only advantage we have over plants during catastrophes.
To discuss this and matters of immediate concern to home gardeners as we begin spring pruning and planting, please come to the next meeting of the Hyattsville Horticultural Society at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 15, at the Hyattsville Municipal Center.
Miss Floribunda writes about gardening for the Life & Times. You may email her at Floribundav@gmail.com.
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a v a i l a b l e e v e r y d a y i n t h e g e n e r a l s t o r e !
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Find more local events all month long in our new, continuously updated online calendar at StreetcarSuburbs.News/events.
Here’s our list of events sponsored by local nonprofits, arts organizations and performance venues, occurring between Feb. 12 and March 11; all information is current as of Feb. 6. For events and meetings organized by the City of Hyattsville, see The Hyattsville Reporter in the newspaper’s centerfold.
Please send notices of events that will take place between March 12 and April 8 to managingeditor@hyattsvillelife. com by March 6.
Weekly acoustic blues jams, in the Piedmont blues tradition. Listeners welcome! Free. Saturdays, 1 to 5 p.m. Archie Edwards Blues Foundation, 4502 Hamilton St. acousticblues.com
Riverdale Park Farmers Market is open every Thursday from 3 to 6:30 p.m. in the parking lot near the Riverdale MARC Station, 4650 Queensbury Rd. For more information, contact rpkfarmmkt@gmail.com.
Sharpen your drawing skills in a relaxed, informal setting at Hyattsville figure drawing group’s drop-in drawing sessions at Pyramid Atlantic Art Center. Sessions consist of several short warm-up poses and a single sustained pose for the duration of the session. Bring your own art supplies; drawing boards and chairs provided. $20/session or $75/5-session punch card or $15/session for Pyramid Atlantic members. Tuesdays, 6 to 9 p.m. 4218 Gallatin St. hyattsvillefiguredrawing@gmail.com
Early Bird Serenity Al-Anon. Support for friends and families of alcoholics based on the 12-step program. Free, all are welcome. Virtual meetings every Thursday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. For more information and Zoom link, email ebsalanon@ gmail.com.
The Hyattsville Branch Library and Archie Edwards Blues Heritage Foundation have teamed up to present free beginning guitar, harmonica, blues vocals, and ukulele classes Lessons are one-hour classes held on Saturday mornings. Register at pgcmls.info/events. 6530 Adelphi Rd. 240.455.5451
Busboys and Poets hosts an open mic for poets every Thursday. $5. 8 to 10 p.m. 5331 Baltimore Ave. 301.779.2787. busboysandpoets.com
ONGOING
“Finding a Voice Through Printmaking” is a retrospective of print work by internationally renowned artist Curlee Raven Holton. Through March 2. Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pyramid Atlantic Art Center, 4218 Gallatin St. pyramidatlanticartcenter.org. 301.608.9101
“The Sound of DC: A Visual History of Go-go” explores this style of funk that originated in D.C. in the 1970s. Through March 8. Free. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Brentwood Arts Exchange, 3901 Rhode Island Ave., Brentwood. 301.277.2863. brentwoodarts@pgparks.com
FEBRUARY 13
The D9 Coalition for Civic Engagement is sponsoring a county executive candidate forum Free. 6 to 8:30 p.m. at High Calling Ministries Church, 401 Prince George’s Blvd., Upper Marlboro. D9Coalition@gmail.com
Practice and enhance your public speaking and leadership skills with the Prince George’s County Women’s Bureau Toastmasters Club on the second Thursday of every month! Free. 7 p.m. For more details and
to register for this virtual event, please visit pgcountywomensbureau.toastmastersclubs.org.
FEBRUARY 14
Attend a Valentine’s Day screening of the award-winning documentary “Join or Die” (2023, 99 min.) at Maryland Meadworks. 4700 Rhode Island Ave., Suite Bee. 201.955.9644. marylandmeadworks.com
FEBRUARY 15
“Right over Left: DMV Runway Review” is a group exhibition, which includes videos from legendary DMV runway clips and archived effects, curated by Danyela J. Brown. Artist and curator talk. Free. 2 to 4 p.m. Brentwood Arts Exchange, 3901 Rhode Island Ave., Brentwood. 301.277.2863. brentwoodarts@pgparks.com
Come to the Comic Genius Show: Valentine’s Comedy Game Night for a night of clean hilarious stand-up comedy, exciting games to play, and fabulous prizes. Comedians will include Comedian Coy and E-Boogie, along with Chris Womack and Wendy “Quiet Storm” Lee. Spoken word poet Testimony will perform. 6:30 p.m. $27 ($35 for same-day purchase). Purchase tickets at tinyurl.com/3unpu8pv. Busboys and Poets, 5331
Baltimore Ave. 301.779.2787. busboysandpoets.com
FEBRUARY 16
Tune Tune Productions presents “Ladies in the Day,” a soul and jazz musical production that salutes Etta James, Ella Fitzgerald, Nina Simone and more. $65. 6:30 to 8 p.m. Purchase tickets at busboysandpoets.com. Busboys and Poets, 5331 Baltimore Ave. 301.779.2787
FEBRUARY 19
Enjoy an afternoon cup of coffee with your neighbors, while watching Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman in the classic movie “Casablanca” (1942, 102 min.). Free. 1 to 3 p.m. Register at pgcmls.info/events. Hyattsville Branch Library, 6530 Adelphi Rd. 240.455.5451
FEBRUARY 22
Brewing Co., 4550 Van Buren St, Riverdale. 240.582.6817. denizensbrewingco.com
As part of Route 1 Corridor Conversations, join College Park Aviation Museum’s Nadine Boksmati-Fattouh and Luke Perez as they talk about the curatorial approach and implementation of the groundbreaking interactive exhibition “Columbia Air Center: Determined to Fly,” scheduled to open this fall. Attendees can join via telephone or Zoom. Free. 2 to 3:30 p.m. Register at hyattsvilleaginginplace.org/events.
FEBRUARY 22 & 23
Soul in Motion presents “SALUTE: The Powerful Woman,” a tribute to the achievements and talents of powerful women from around the globe. $40. Saturday 8 p.m., Sunday 4 p.m. Purchase tickets at joesmovement.org. Joe’s Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Rd., Mt. Rainier. 301.699.1819
Come enjoy delicious cask beer from some of your favorite local breweries at the Sixth Annual Winter Cask Classic. $40 gets you in the door, plus a souvenir glass and unlimited cask beer. 1 to 5 p.m. Purchase tickets in advance or at the door. Denizens
FEBRUARY 23
Join us for Plummers Kitchen and see the Riversdale Kitchen Guild prepare foods popular among enslaved communities in Maryland. Free. Noon to 3 p.m.
Register at pgparksdirect.com. Riversdale House Museum, 4811 Riverdale Rd., Riverdale Park. 301.864.0420. riversdale@ pgparks.com
The Uplift Dance Festival celebrates the best of local talent and the enduring power of dance to uplift our lives. $20 general admission, $15 seniors and students. 4 to 6 p.m. Purchase tickets through pgparksdirect.com. Publick Playhouse, 5445 Landover Rd., Cheverly. 301.277.1710. publickplayhouse@pgparks.com
MARCH 1
Join local amateur anthropologist (and physics professor) Dr. Robert Oerter as he presents “Hominins, Hobbits, and Honey: Human Evolution 50 years after Lucy.” Free. 8 to 10 p.m. Maryland Meadworks, 4700 Rhode Island Ave., Suite Bee. 201.955.9644. marylandmeadworks.com
MARCH 4
Party with the Wild Anacostias on Mardis Gras at Streetcar 82 Brewing Co. Free. 7 to 9 p.m. 4824 Rhode Island Ave. streetcar82brewing.com
MARCH 7
The Hyattsville Jazz Collective performs new compositions as well as their own treatments of jazz standards at Brentwood Arts Exchange. $20. 8 to 10 p.m. Buy tickets through pgparksdirect. com. 3901 Rhode Island Ave., Brentwood. 301.277.2863. brentwoodarts@pgparks. com
At-large County Councilmember and Chair Jolene Ivey had about $467,000 in her campaign account on Jan. 28 and had raised about $190,000 from 310 contributors since Dec. 1. Those contributors included at least 22 donors in the real estate and construction industries, each of whom had given over $1,000, totalling over $40,000, combined.
Ivey received $2,000 from the director of a nonprofit that promotes careers in public safety for Prince George’s County Public Schools graduates and $2,000 from an employee of the data center company Iron Bow Technologies.
From Jan. 9 to Jan. 28, Ivey spent about $9,000 on office rental and another $1,300 on printing.
She made a $250,000 loan to her campaign on Jan. 6.
AISHA BRAVEBOY
Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy had about $379,000 in her campaign account on Jan. 28 and had raised about $325,000 from 375 donors since Dec. 1.
Braveboy spent far more than any other candidate from Jan. 9 through Jan. 28 — $200,000, including $25,000 on phone banking, over $100,000 on television ads and $6,000 on robocalls.
Braveboy’s campaign received $6,000 from Corridor Wine in Laurel and at least $42,000 from members of the family of David Trone, the liquor magnate who lost to Angela Alsobrooks in the primary for the U.S. Senate this spring.
Braveboy also received at least $30,000 from donors in the health care industry, particularly home health care ser-
vices, since Dec. 1.
Northeast Maglev, which has been seeking approval for a high speed train line through Prince George’s County, contributed $5,000 to her campaign.
A political action committee called the We Are Labor 2 PAC contributed just over $79,000 to Braveboy’s campaign on Jan 31, past the timeframe for reporting.
At-large County Councilmember Calvin Hawkins had about $192,000 in his campaign account on Jan. 28. He had raised the most money from the largest number of donors since Dec. 1, about $337,000 from nearly 600 donors. Over $50,000 came from 11 donors in the construction and real estate industries.
Hawkins spent a total of $116,000 from Jan. 9 to Jan. 28, including $26,000 on printing, $25,000 on campaign staff and consultants, $23,000 on phone banking and $12,000 for office rental.
Former County Executive Rushern Baker had just under $97,000 in his campaign bank account on Jan. 28 and had raised about $146,000 from about 260 donors since Dec. 1.
Three donors in security services gave a total of $12,000 to his campaign, and four donors in the real estate and construction industries gave a total of $13,500. Baker received an additional $6,000 from the campaign funds of County Councilmember Sidney Harrison (District 9) and also received donations of services for campaign texting and for video. Baker spent almost $44,000 on media and over $3,000 on compensation for campaign workers from Jan. 9 to Jan. 28.
State Senator Alonzo T. Washington (District 22) had $81,000 in his campaign bank account on Jan. 28. Since Dec. 1, he
had raised about $37,000 from about 160 donors, most of them small donations from addresses in his district. The largest donation he received was $2,500 from the campaign of Bill Ferguson, a state legislator from Baltimore. Washington spent about $2,000 from Jan. 9 to Jan. 28 on compensation for campaign workers.
Moisette Tonya Sweat had about $11,000 in her campaign account on Jan. 28. She had raised about $13,000 since Dec. 1 from nearly 50 donors. She spent $1,600 between Jan. 9 and Jan. 28 on media, printing and campaign materials. Her largest donations were $6,000 from Peter Oliver Kreuger, a consultant from Silver Spring, and $2,000 from Joann McDonald, a Bowie resident and retired bookkeeper for Prince George’s County Public Schools.
Ron Hunt had over $3,000 in his bank account on Jan. 28 and had spent over $6,000 on direct mail since Jan. 9. He made a loan of $9,500 to his campaign on Jan. 13.
MARCELLUS CREWS and ALBERT SLOCUM did not file the reports by the Feb. 4 deadline, and their most recent campaign finance reports show minimal balances.
In heavily Democratic Prince George’s County, Republican candidates are not raising much money. Jonathan White and George McDermott filed statements showing that contributions and expenditures for each of their campaigns were less than $1,000. Jesse Peed failed to file the report by the Feb. 4 deadline, but an annual statement he filed Jan. 15 shows a bank account balance under $1,000.
ing typology from blue collar workers to the professional workers to the empty nesters,” Hull said.
Recently developed detached homes or townhouses in Hyattsville include The Riverfront at West Hyattsville (built in 2021), Suffrage Point (built in 2022) and Gateway West (built in 2023). The cheapest of these new Hyattsville homes sold for around $500,000, and the most expensive for more than $1,000,000.
By comparison, the median home value in the Queens Chapel area, according to the second draft of the sector plan, is $276,751, and the countywide median home value is $311,017. What’s more, a graph credited to the National Housing Conference’s 2023 Paycheck-toPaycheck database and used by Hull in her presentation shows that annual income needed to afford median home ownership in Prince George’s County is around $140,000. The median household income in the Queens Chapel area is $58,553.
New state policy on affordable housing near metros
At the Jan. 21 council meeting, Thomas Lester, who works for the county planning department’s Community Planning Division, said that, in addition to the second draft of the plan unintentionally displacing residents from subsidized or naturally occurring affordable housing, one of the reasons for the remand is House Bill 538, also known as the Housing Expansion and Affordability Act. Signed by Gov. Wes Moore on April 25, 2024, and codified into law on Jan. 1 of this year, HB 538 allows developers to build more housing per acre if a certain percentage of affordable housing units is incorporated into their plan.
Lester also said that HB 538 addresses housing shortages
and affordability by targeting new construction within 0.75 miles of a rail station, “offering these projects certain benefits.”
County policy on housing near Hyattsville metros
The drive for greater density near transit-oriented development derives from Plan 2035, a sweeping, 300-page document approved in 2014 that “includes comprehensive recommendations for guiding future development within Prince George’s County.”
A quote in Hull’s presentation excerpted from this 20-year plan claims that the county is not prepared to meet the housing preferences of its seniors — “a growing segment of its population” — and its young professionals — “a critical component of its workforce and economic competitiveness.”
“Simply put, we are facing a looming deficit in multifamily housing,” the plan says. Hull emphasized that this statement still applies today, “eleven years later.”
The plan’s stated solution for this problem is transit-oriented development: “Plan 2035 designates eight centers with extensive transit and transportation infrastructure and the long-term capacity to become mixed-use, economic generators for the County as Regional Transit Districts,” according to p. 19 of the document. The plan goes on to recommend “directing the majority of future employment and residential growth in the County to the Regional Transit Districts.”
Hyattsville Crossing Metro station, referred to as Prince George’s Plaza Metro in the document, is one of these regional transit districts. Plan 2035 also targets lower density development near the West Hyattsville Metro station, which is listed as one of 26 local centers.
At June 2024 listening sessions for the sector plan, residents questioned why Queens Chapel Manor was being targeted for redevelopment when neigh-
borhoods such as Queensbury and University Park are also low density and close to the Hyattsville Crossing Metro station.
In July 2024, the county council passed County Bill-15-2024 — zoning legislation that went into effect on Sept. 3, 2024. The bill doubles, and occasionally triples, maximum residential densities in transit-oriented areas. Lester said the sector plan applies this rezoning to Queens Chapel Manor “to accommodate more missing middle houses near the two metro stations.”
“However, this plan overlooks other neighborhoods with similar proximity to metro stations that could also benefit from the zoning,” Lester acknowledged. “It also places the responsibility of adding missing middle housing solely on Queens Chapel Manor.”
The remand will allow planning staff to evaluate this discrepancy.
Other concerns about the sector plan include the environmental impact of new construction around Queens Chapel Manor. The 1,085-acre sector plan area is bisected by the Northwest Branch of the Anacostia River and its 100-year flood plain. Despite the plan’s tendency to market the area as an attractive place to live because of its proximity to the river and the abutting bicycle trails, new construction can be undermined by this very layout.
The plan’s second draft lists environmental challenges, including flood control and groundwater contamination from gas stations and vehicle repair shops. It also calls the cost of mitigating these issues when building new construction “prohibitively expensive.”
According to a Jan. 9 planning
HB 538 addresses housing shortages and affordability by targeting new construction within 0.75 miles of a rail station, “offering these projects certain benefits.”
planning director for the City of Miami.
“The entire city is pretty much under sea level, so we had to figure out how to mitigate and have some forethinking sustainable development,” she said.
She added that the flood plain conversation is part of a larger conversation staff is having across the county. Hull was hired as Miami’s planning director in July 2022.
The largest portion of Hull’s presentation to the council on Jan. 21 was devoted to accessory dwelling units (ADUs).
department memo, the initial sector plan was sent back partly because the county’s Department of the Environment said flood plain development in the first draft conflicted with the county’s climate action plan. Although “sustainable development and mitigation strategies for floodplain development” is named in the memo as another reason for the recent remand, this time around, the delay is for consideration of how to make building in the flood plain possible, whereas the second draft strongly discouraged development in the flood plain altogether. At the Jan. 21 city council meeting, Lester said the previous plan “doesn’t fully account for emerging technologies and materials that could enable environmentally sensitive and safer development in flood plains.” He went on to add that further research is needed rather than a blanket prohibition.
After prompting from City Council President Joseph Solomon (Ward 5), Hull — who was hired as the county’s planning director Dec. 7, 2023 — shared that she previously worked as
“Some people know them as carriage houses; some people know them as granny flats,” Hull said. “Those are those great, quick wins that we can be very surgical in being able to insert self-contained housing units adjacent, or within close proximity, to a primary residence.”
Although the implication was that allowing ADUs to be built on the property of single-family residences in Queens Chapel Manor would help with the affordable housing problem, Hull said ADUs are not currently part of the sector plan. Her presentation on them was merely a response to the missing middle housing study that the city council requested in its Aug. 6, 2024, letter.
Lester said that staff have already begun revising the plan, and that a third draft will be released this summer. If approved, it could be implemented as early as summer 2026, according to Hull.
Solomon stressed that he’d like the plan to be passed as quickly as possible.
“While I understand the need for the remand or the desire to have the remand,” he said, “I also understand that the community has worked long and hard on this and are looking forward to seeing it come to fruition.”
By SOPHIE GORMAN ORIANI
Ten of the 12 candidates for Prince George’s county executive participated in a candidate forum at the Laurel Boys and Girls Club the evening of Jan. 30.
To open the forum, each candidate introduced themselves and expressed their vision for Prince George’s County. Over the course of the evening, they all attempted to make themselves stand out in the crowded field.
Aisha Braveboy, the state’s attorney for Prince George’s County, said the county is experiencing both a financial deficit and, in her words, a “leadership deficit at the federal level.” She suggested an audit of the county’s finances.
Former County Executive Rushern Baker said his vision is for Prince George’s County to be the way it was during his prior terms as county executive, from 2010 to 2018.
State Senator Alonzo T. Washington (District 22) said that the county is currently very divided and that his leadership would be able to bring the county together.
“We don’t need an audit; we need an investigation!” said for-
mer nightclub owner Ron Hunt, who focused on the need to fix the budget deficit.
What county service most needs improvement?
Candidates weighed in on a county service or agency that could stand to be improved.
Washington and County Councilmember Jolene Ivey (At-large) both named the Department of Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement (DPIE). Washington suggested the solution would be to dismantle the department, while Ivey said she felt it could be improved without dismantling it entirely. “Hi!” Baker said, “I’m the creator of DPIE!” Baker said that the department consolidated previously siloed agencies and that the problem was the management of the department.
Hunt, along with business owner Marcellus Crews and financial professional Albert Slocum, singled out education as the service they would prioritize for improvement.
Jonathan White, one of two Republicans at the forum, suggested improving public safety by hiring more police officers.
Braveboy said she would like to see the police department restructured to provide sufficient community policing.
Attorney Tonya Sweat said that her goal would be to improve the office of the county executive. “If we fix the leadership in this county,” she said, “we can fix a whole lot.”
Retiree George McDermott, who is running as a Republican, said he would revamp the office of the state’s attorney and increase prosecution of white collar crime. He would also like to make it easier for citizens to bring complaints.
Candidates emphasized different areas when talking about their priorities for improving education in the county.
Braveboy stressed the need to expand early childhood education and assess children early; she also pointed to the need for after-school enrichment to support a variety of learning styles. Baker said ensuring student safety would be his top priority.
McDermott suggested going “back to the basics” and making
sure students are taught about the U.S. Constitution.
Ivey noted that if fixing the problems with the school system were easy, it would already have been done. She said that, as a parent, she knows the first years of a child’s life are crucial and said she already started a program funding home visits by registered nurses to support families with new babies, including connecting them with needed resources.
Crews suggested allowing students to pursue certifications and apprenticeships starting in sixth grade. Sweat and Hunt also mentioned expanding apprenticeships for students. Jonathan White expressed support for vocational programs and proposed saving money by establishing a four-day school week.
Several of the candidates, including Washington, Baker and Sweat, stressed the need to fund the planned investment in education.
While the newly elected executive will inherit an already approved budget, a number of candidates — including Washington, Hunt
and White — expressed a desire to cut spending in the future.
Hunt also suggested seniors who own homes should pay no property taxes.
Baker said he knew from experience that inheriting a previously approved budget is hard.
Braveboy said she would prioritize spending the budgeted money in the county. Ivey said that as council chair, she had had a hand in developing the budget, but as county executive, she would increase the hiring speed for empty positions.
Slocum and Sweat expressed a desire to bring in more revenue for the county, with Slocum specifically suggesting taxing corporations. McDermott focused on his concern about the prevalence of white collar crimes.
Democrat Calvin Hawkins, an at-large county councilmember, and Republican Jesse Peed, an Army veteran and small business owner, did not attend this forum.
For more information on the candidates, candidate forums and how to vote in the county executive election this month, see our voter guide on p. 3.
