10-2022 The Laurel Independent

Be an informed voter on Election Day, Nov. 8

By Joe Murchison

This fall, Laurel voters will help elect a new governor for the first time in eight years — possibly the state’s first African American governor — and will help decide whether recreational marijuana use is legalized.

There are numerous other federal, state and county races on the ballot, although an unusual number of candidates are unopposed.

The deadline to register to vote is Oct. 18.

To register, order a mail-in ballot or verify your polling place, go to princegeorges countymd.gov/559/Board-of-Elections.

Early voting runs from Oct. 27 to Nov. 3, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., at the Laurel-Beltsville Senior Activity Center, 7120 Contee Road.

Laurel Lions Club keeps up work for the community

By Aiesha Solomon

The Laurel Lions Club is celebrating its 90th year serving the city of Laurel. Lions volunteers have generously supported the city since the club’s founding in 1932, providing residents with a range of basic necessities — glasses, walkers, wheelchairs, canes — and assisting with the city’s Halloween Spooktacular event every fall.

“We appreciate everything that the Lions Club does. They're very active in the community here and very involved working with our parks and rec department [with

Laurel’s House of Horror opens for ninth season

By Katie V. Jones

Charlene Blankenship couldn’t hide her emotions when she saw the casino room nestled in the maze of hallways and rooms of her and her late husband Richard’s beloved business, Laurel’s House of Horror.

Complete with a slot machine, blackjack tables and two stationary ghouls overseeing everything, the scene is one that

Richard would have loved, Blankenship said, as the couple enjoyed date nights at casinos and were married in Las Vegas.

“He was so lucky. He could not lose on our wedding day,” Blankenship said, as she looked around the dimly lit room. “He was so much fun.”

In December, Richard Blankenship lost his battle with lung cancer. After eight years of running Laurel’s House of Horrors

Charlene Blankenship (center) stands with a few of Laurel’s House of Horror cast members. KATIE

JONES

Sustainable Saturday starts off with a buzz

By Aiesha Solomon

Laurel residents turned out on Sept. 10 for the city’s first Sustainable Saturday festivities. The event showcased pollinator-friendly and green-initiative organizations working together to underscore the importance of pollinators and the essential role they play. The event also recognized the city’s first year as an affiliate to the Bee City USA.

“The Sustainable Saturday event is really a kick-off to educating our residents about the importance of pollinators and our Bee City initiative and to show them a rendering of our vision for the city’s first city pol-

linator garden, which will be at the Larry T. Smith Park,” said Michele Blair, the Laurel Environmental Affairs Committee environmental programs manager.

Bee City USA is an initiative of the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, a nonprofit organization based in Portland, Or. The program certifies applicants that successfully complete a number of requirements, including establishing a committee to carry out sustainability actions and public education activities.

On July 22, Laurel met the requirements to become a Bee City USA affiliate. The Sustainable Saturday event empha-

sized Laurel’s Bee City affiliation and gathered educators and vendors that supported the foundation of the city’s longterm sustainability plan, according to Blair.

“Part of that plan includes, obviously, the environment, and with that, it is important to recognize the decline of our pollinators, in addition to creating an environment that the community can be involved in on a personal basis, on a very basic kind of level — i.e. putting your hands in the ground and planting a pollinator garden,” Blair said. “The pollinators pollinate the food that we eat and the flowers and promote a healthy ecosystem.”

Jimmy Rogers, chair of the Bee City subcommittee of the Environmental Affairs Committee, manned a table at the event.

“A lot of what I’ve been doing is talking to residents today about how they can choose successful, native plants that will be a sustainable garden that also brings a lot of wildlife in and has a long bloom time and keeps the weeds down,” he said.

Many local and county groups participated in the event, including Howard EcoWorks, the Chesapeake Bay Trust, the Sierra Club, Millie’s Garden and the Laurel branch of the Prince George's County Memorial Library System. Laurel’s El Buen Gusto Panadería Bakery sold food and drinks to visitors.

Below: The Howard County Bee-

Association’s

A community newspaper chronicling the people and events of Laurel, Maryland.

Mailing address: PO Box 132, Hyattsville, MD 20781

The Laurel Independent is published monthly by

Board of Directors Joseph Gigliotti — President & General Counsel Melanie Dzwonchyk — Interim Secretary Stephanie Stullich — Treasurer Gretchen Brodtman, T. Carter Ross, Bette Dickerson, Nora Eidelman, Maxine Gross, Joe Murchison Katie V. Jones, Mark Goodson, Ex Officios

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Business Manager Catie Currie

The Howard County Beekeepers Association (HCBA) had a table featuring local honey for sale, information on helping pollinators, activities and a bee observation hive on display.

Christina Mullan, the association’s secretary, noted that in addition to bees, many other species are pollinators, too.

“Pollinators include not just insects … there's animals that pollinate, there’s birds that pollinate … so it's really holistic. Even though it's called Bee City, it's all about pollinators, no matter what that pollinator might be,” Mullan said.

Mayor Craig Moe held a welcoming ceremony for the first Sustainable Saturday event, in-

cluding cutting a fittingly green ribbon to open the festivities. Blair, Donna Crary and Jamal Lee, both committee members with Laurel’s Community Redevelopment Authority, Councilmember James Kole (Ward 1), Robert Love, director of Laurel’s Economic and Community Development, and Deputy City Administrator Joanne Hall Barr were all on hand to help.

Leila Ashkeboussi, an HCBA volunteer, said that she would be adopting personal ways to become more pollinator friendly.

“I want to replace my lawn with a sustainable pollinator garden. Maintaining a lawn tends to waste a lot of water [and] gasoline for lawn mowers,” Ashkeboussi said. “It’s a food desert for pollinators, so creating a sustainable lawn and yard can really help your local wildlife.”

The event was a huge success, and the large turn out prompted Blair to say that Sustainable Saturday would become an annual event.

“I envision that each year we will have a different focus – this year it was Bee City and pollinators,” Blair wrote in an email. “We were very pleased with the resident participation and the educators/exhibitors/vendors were also pleased with the event.”

For more information about the Bee City USA program, go to beecityusa.org.

From left: Robert Love, Joanne Hall Barr, Councilmember James Kole (Ward 1), Donna Crary, Jamal Lee, Mayor Craig Moe and Michele Blair at the ribbon cutting for the Sustainable Saturday event on Sept. 10

keepers

honey display at the Sustainable Saturday on Sept. 10.

AIESHA SOLOMON

Discussing food in literature

By Katie V. Jones

After hosting several successful virtual programs together during the pandemic, Ann Bennett, executive director of the Laurel Historical Society and Ella Alonso, a librarian with the Laurel branch of the Prince George’s County Memorial Library Sys-

tem, wanted to try it in person. With the Laurel History Museum’s current exhibit, “What’s Cookin’ Laurel?” in mind, the two decided to combine their interests, literature and food, for the four-part series, “Foods of Fiction.”

“This is a lot of fun for me,” said Bennett, who can’t hide her en-

Laurel Voter Guide

Dear Laurel neighbors,

For the past four years, we have represented you in the Maryland legislature. We’ve done our best to help working and retired families and keep Laurel a good place to live.

We’re running for re-election on the Democratic ticket along with great nominees for federal, state, and county offices, listed here. We would appreciate your support. Also on the ballot are important county bond issues for roads, libraries, schools, and public safety, and changes to the state constitution and county charter. We support all of them.

If you have questions or would like to discuss any of the candidates or ballot questions, email 21stDistrictDelegation@gmail.com or call us at 240712-4646.

Many thanks!

Ben, Jim, Mary, Joseline

thusiasm for food. “I get to dive into my cookbook collection.”

Alonso gets to dive into literature and share her knowledge of the titles and authors of the four works they selected for the series.

“We’re on the same page,” said Alonso, of working with Bennett. “She has been doing so

much with food, it made sense.”

With “The Rings of Power,” a new television series based on the works of J.R.R. Tolkien which was recently released — and National Hobbit Day taking place on Sept. 22 — for their first presentation in September, Bennett and Alonso selected Tolkein’s “The Hobbit.”

Though the story takes place in a make-believe world, its characters still enjoy food, the two explained, and much of what they ate is very similar to what was popular during England’s Victorian Era, from 1838 to 1901, when the author lived.

“It’s important to include the author’s background and the historical context,” said Bennett, noting that inventions like the gas stove, along with better methods for refrigeration and transporting food, provided new ingredients and cooking methods during the Victorian Era.

Alonso started the discussion with a brief synopsis of “The Hobbit '' and its main character, Bilbo Baggins, highlighting passages where the characters ate or entertained with foods such as seed cake, cold chicken, pickles and buttered scones.

“The sole reason British cuisine gets a bad rap is Mrs. Isabell Beeton,” said Bennett, refer-

21st District Democratic Team Sample Ballot

Governor/ Lt. Gov.

Wes Moore and Aruna Miller

Comptroller

County Council

Tom Dernoga – District 1

ring to the author of the popular cookbook of the time “Mrs. Beeton’s Book of Household Management.”

Beeton’s recipes were simple and featured colorful illustrations, Bennett said. It was a useful tool, too, for young housewives, as a memory aid for recipes that were not typically written down but shared verbally.

During their presentation, Bennett and Alonso shared recipes and provided pastries to sample that were related to the book. Bennett is already planning what to serve and talk about at “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” by Washington Irving discussion on Oct. 19

“‘Sleepy Hollow’ has great food references,” Bennett said. “Old New York has Dutch-American food. Ginger cakes. I might make a gingerbread cake.”

The series continues on Nov. 16 with a discussion on “Twelfth Night,” by William Shakespeare, and a discussion of “A Christmas Carol,” by Charles Dickens, on Dec. 14; both events will be at 6:30 p.m. All talks are free and take place at the Laurel branch of the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System, at 507 7th Street.

Judge of the Orphans’ Court

Wendy Cartwright

Jason DeLoach

Athena Malloy Groves

Sheriff

John D.B. Carr

Attorney General

Anthony Brown

Brooke Lierman US Senator

Chris Van Hollen

US Representative

Glenn Ivey

State Senator

Jim Rosapepe

House of Delegates

Ben Barnes

Mary A. Lehman

Joseline Peña-Melnyk

County Executive

Angela Alsobrooks

Mel Franklin and Calvin Hawkins – At Large

Judge of the Circuit Court

Carol Ann Coderre

Judge Court of Special Appeals At Large

Stuart Berger and

Terrence Zic – Yes For

Continuance in Office

State’s Attorney

Aisha Braveboy

Clerk of the Circuit Court

Mahasin El Amin

Register of Wills

Cereta A. Lee

STATE BALLOT QUESTIONS

1. Renames Maryland Court of Appeals - FOR

2. Residency requirements for legislators - FOR

3. Jury trial/civil casesFOR

4. Legalizes adult use of marijuana - FOR

5. Howard County Orphans Court - FOR COUNTY BOND

ISSUES FOR ROADS, LIBRARIES, SCHOOLS, and PUBLIC SAFETY

Questions

Ann Bennett discussing the foods featured in “The Hobbit,” by J.R.R. Tolkien. KATIE V. JONES PAID

together, Blankenship is on her own this haunt season.

“It’s a very different ballpark I am in,” Blankenship said. “It’s a lot of work. I am doing what I can.”

A career firefighter in Howard County, Richard Blankenship loved creating haunted houses in his garage for his six children and their friends, she said. It was after doing a fire inspection of a popular haunted house in the area that he decided to take a gamble on his love for haunted houses.

“He said ‘I know how to do it,’” Blankenship recalled.” We then stumbled across this place.” Empty for several years, the former six theater Laurel Twin Theaters in Laurel Shopping Center offered 28,0000 square feet of space.

“It was spooky,” Blankenship said. “The floors were unlevel

where the seats had been, and it was enormous.”

With the help of family, friends and fellow firefighters, the couple was able to fill the space with both props and actors to open the haunt for its first season, in 2013. Nine years later, Blakenship is calling upon that support again.

“It is hard for the family to come in because it makes them sad,” Blankenship said. “A lot of my team have been here since the beginning or pretty close.”

“I have been coming here since it opened,” said Brianna Murphy, who now works for the haunt as the character Maw, a blood-soaked ghoul. “I absolutely love it. It’s a wonderful time.”

Actors are an important part of the haunt’s success, Blankenship said, as they do little skits and banter with guests. The 50 to 60 actors go through training and are encouraged to create characters. Two regu-

lar characters include a ghoul named Laurel, who can be found roaming the halls, and the butcher, whose storefront is named after Richard Blankenship’s uncle, Art Stauv, an avid haunt supporter who died in October 2014 while working at the haunt.

“They are artists who get to come play and show us what they are capable of,” Blankenship said. “It’s a win, win. It is a valuable partnership. They need what we have and we need what they have.”

The haunt, Blankenship said, has several themed areas including this season’s newest addition, the Carlisle Hotel, which includes the casino scene. While Blankenship oversees everything, Anthony Casalotti, the art designer, “has the ideas,” she said. “We add every year. I am always thinking in advance,” said Casalotti, who has been with the haunt for eight years.

”Next year is our 10th year. Everything with Xs next year.”

Blankenship is proud of the detail work found throughout the haunt, noting that someone complained about what they thought was mold in an escape room.

“It does look really good,” Blankenship said. “You don’t want it to look too commercial or perfect. I had to learn how to make a nice doll seem all tattered and worn and weathered.”

People, according to Casalotti, like to be scared “for the adrenaline rush.” He and Chris Smith, CFO of Laurel’s House of Horror, said there are several types of scares possible including a creepy scare, a gory scare and a terrified scare.

“A successful haunted house has the perfect combination,” Casalotti said.

During the haunt season, which started the last weekend in September and runs

through the first weekend of November, food will be available for sale for those waiting in line outside. Various ghouls and goblins will also provide entertainment for those in line and drag queens are scheduled to perform on two Sundays.

Paranormal tours of the theater will be offered in October after the haunted house closes for the night. Hosted by Charm City Paranormal, tours will start at 11:30 p.m. and 1:45 a.m.

Three escape rooms — Jigsaw, Freakshow and Escape the Movies — are available throughout the year. These, and a fourth room that’s in the works, challenge participants to find and answer clues in a set time period.

“Everything changes,” Blankenship said. “Our presence is much more known than it was. I am carrying on and making it all come to fruition.”

Seeing Laurel’s House of Horror in a new light

By Katie V. Jones

Immediately upon entering Laurel’s House of Horror for the first time, Mike Richey, of Charm City Paranormal, in Baltimore, said all his hair — including his facial hair — stood up.

“I’ve spent nights in haunted places all across the country,” Richey said. “That’s a first. I’ve never had that happen.”

He didn’t expect such “very dark, very negative” energy, either.

“I don’t understand what we have on our hands, but I have an idea and it is not good by any means,” he said. “I’m a bit nervous.”

Richey is willing, however, to explore it more with eager participants during nightly paranormal tours every weekend in October, after Laurel’s House of Horror closes for the night. The tours will be for groups of about 12 and will start at 11:30 p.m. and 1:45 a.m.

“It’s my first time ever doing this,” Richey said, of the tours. ”I’m not there to play things up or give a good scare. I like finding something cool.”

“They will have access to the whole thing,” said Chris Smith, CFO of Laurel’s House of Horror. “We will wipe out the staff and crew and turn the lights and sound off so the experience is true. It is not smoke and mirrors but true paranormal stuff.”

While the late times will add to the tours’ spookiness, if a place is haunted, “It could be 2 a.m. or 2 p.m., it doesn’t matter. It will show itself,” Richey said.

Richey became a paranormal investigator three years ago, after visiting an abandoned asylum to take photographs and having an unsettling experience.

“I was thrown out by some unseen force,” Richey said. “It was a terrifying experience.”

Richey decided to do his own investigating to understand paranormal activity after discovering that most of the paranormal investigations seen on TV are, as he said, “heavily fabricated.”

“Authentic paranormal activities are all around us if you open up to it and allow it to be seen,” Richey said. “There are different degrees depending on what happened at that place.”

While he is still delving into the history of the former movie theater in Laurel Shopping Center where Laurel’s House of Horror is located, Richey knows visitors are often emotional about their experience there.

“Thousands of people going through are all experiencing the same thing over and over — mainly it is fear,” Richey said. “Emotions are energy, and energy just doesn’t go away.”

Charlene Blankenship, owner of Laurel’s House of Horror, fully believes the building is haunted.

“No matter what paranormal group goes through, every single time they feel a presence,” she said, noting that this year, her husband Richard Blankenship, who passed away in December, may be part of the paranormal activity. Richard’s uncle, Art Staub, died in 2014, the weekend before Halloween,while he was working in the haunt. The butcher shop scene in the house is named after him, and Blankenship is sure he plays a trick or two there.

“I don’t know what to expect,” Richey said. “There is so much in this place; it is hard to narrow it down. Nothing compares to it.”

Charlene Blankenship stands in Laurel’s House of Horror’s butcher shop, which is named after a late relative who now haunts it. KATIE V. JONES

LIONS CLUB

the] several co-sponsorships that they do,” Mayor Craig Moe said.

The club also donates money for scholarships for both Laurel and St. Vincent Pallotti high schools.

“Lions Club was challenged by Helen Keller back in the day to be knights for the blind. That's why we collect eyeglasses and do so much work with vision and sight research,” said Donald Danneman, Lions president.

Funding for its projects is collected through different fundraisers, including its popular steamed crab sale, which is slated for Saturday, Oct. 22, from 1 to 4 p.m. at 204 Ft Meade Road.

“Our crab sales were great and the idea is to make them better so we can increase our support to the community,” Danneman said.

The club will also have a booth at the Laurel Main Street Festival on Oct. 15.

“Through their fundraisers in the community, they have gone on to co-sponsor several community events that we hold here, and those are the annual Halloween spooktacular and the Easter extravaganza,” said

Joanne Barr, deputy city administrator and the city’s former director of parks and recreation.

“They're there to help us on the day of the activity by filling bags or putting out Easter eggs or you know, just whatever kind of help they can be. They have always been there and it's just a wonderful working relationship that we have with them.”

The Laurel Lions chapter is affiliated with Lions Club International, which was founded by Melvin Jones in Chicago, in 1917. Jones owned an insurance business and witnessed Americans in need firsthand. He believed that compassion and service were essential to the club’s work;

the Lions code of ethics calls on members to “aid my fellow man by giving my sympathy to those in distress, my aid to the weak, and my substance to the needy,” The story of the club’s founding is recorded in Lions Clubs International video.

Danneman joined the club in 1992, when there were some 60 or 70 members. Thirty years later, those numbers have dwindled to 16, he said, of which only six or seven are active.

“When I joined, there were usually, actually, [club], elections going on,” Danneman said. “When I became president three years ago, had I not raised my hand, that probably would have been

the end [of the club].”

Individuals can join the club by invitation.

“We want volunteers, but you do have to be nominated and invited into the club,” explained Lions Club member Greg Scott. According to guidelines of the Lions Club International, members who have served 20 years, or members who have served 15 years and are at least 70 years old, can become life members.

Laurel Lion Bob Mignon became a life member during the club’s meeting on Sept. 27.

“Congratulations on joining more than 5,000 Lions that have been approved life members worldwide,” Danneman said to

Mignon during his certification ceremony.

Women have been able to join the club since 1987.

“It’s not a men only group,” explained Danneman’s wife, Becky. “Wives can be Lions as well, or it could be a woman without a husband. Everybody’s welcome.”

Danneman noted that attracting young people is an ongoing challenge.

“It's been very difficult attracting young people to Lions because the baby boomers, which I'm part of, our parents were volunteers, they bestowed that and taught that to us to be volunteers and to provide service,” Danneman said.

Laurel Lions Club members (from left) Greg Scott, Jim Coakley, Vincent Schembari, Bob Mignon, Donald Danneman, Jim Kronmeyern and Charles Brannan at meeting on Sept. 27.

AIESHA SOLOMON

ELECTION

FROM PAGE 1

There also is a drop-off box at that location for mail-in ballots. General Election Day is Nov. 8. Polls will open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The following information is taken from candidates’ websites:

GOVERNOR-LT.

GOVERNOR

Republican Dan Cox is a lawyer and state delegate. He pledges to end vaccine and mask mandates, stop race and transgender indoctrination in schools, support police, lower taxes and ensure election security. His running mate is Gordana Schifanelli

Democrat Wes Moore is an Army veteran, author and national nonprofit executive. He pledges to work for world-class public schools, increase healthcare access, advocate for equity and social justice, develop

clean energy and protect reproductive and LGBTQ+ rights. His running mate is Aruna Miller.

COMPTROLLER

Republican Barry Glassman is a former Harford County executive and state senator. He touts his governmental experience and pledges efficiency and opposition to new taxes.

Democrat Brooke Lierman is a civil and disability rights attorney and state delegate. She vows to lend support to small businesses, save money on state procurements, address the state’s racial wealth gap and protect the state employees’ pension system.

GENERAL ATTORNEY

Democrat Anthony Brown is a congressman and former lieutenant governor. He pledges to expand voter access, legalize cannabis, protect reproductive rights and limit gun violence.

Republican Michael Peroutka is a lawyer and former Anne Arundel County councilman. He pledges to prosecute public officials who illegally limit citizens’ freedoms, protect gun rights, oppose abortion, restore election integrity and fight illegal immigration.

U.S. SENATOR

Republican Chris Chaffee is the owner of a building and contracting business. He pledges to work for smaller and more efficient government, strengthen the military and defeat ISIS, cut off the entry of refugees pending better vetting, protect gun rights, eliminate the Affordable Care Act and get government out of education.

Democrat Chris Van Hollen is an attorney and incumbent U.S. senator who previously served in the Maryland General Assembly and U.S. House of Representatives. His priorities include improving the state’s infrastructure, protecting the Chesapeake Bay, improving schools, preventing gun violence, increasing access to health care and making the economy more inclusive.

CONGRESS – DISTRICT 4

Democrat Glenn Ivey is an attorney, former congressional staffer and former Prince George’s County state’s attorney. He pledges to work for well-paying jobs, a more equitable economy, access to affordable health care, and housing and criminal justice reform.

Republican Jeff Warner is a church pastor. He pledges to

CONGRATULATIONS TO HYATTSVILLE NATIVE & JTCC ALUMNUS FRANCES TIAFOE

work for lower inflation and lower taxes, job growth, crime reduction, school choice and renewing the nation’s spiritual heritage.

STATE SENATE –DISTRICT 21

Republican Lee Havis is a former college professor and founder and director of the International Montessori Society. He vows to assure election integrity, promote school choice, reduce regulation, combat illegal immigration, support strict enforcement of laws and increase freedom to choose health care.

Democrat Jim Rosapepe is incumbent state senator and former U.S. ambassador to Romania. His priorities include working for better schools, more affordable college, safer streets and more jobs in the community.

UNOPPOSED

The following candidates are unopposed: State House of Delegates –District 21

Ben Barnes

Mary Lehman

Joseline Peña-Melnyk

Prince George’s County Executive

Angela Alsobrooks

Prince George’s County Council – At Large (Elect two)

Mel Franklin

Calvin Hawkins

Prince George’s County Council – Dist. 1

Tom Dernoga

Circuit Court Judge – Circuit 7

Carol Ann Coderre

Judges, Court of Special Appeals At Large (Elect two)

Stuart Berger

Terrence Zic

State’s Attorney

Aisha Braveboy

Clerk of Circuit Court

Mahasin El Amin

Register of Wills

Cereta Lee

Judge of Orphans’ Court (Elect three)

Wendy Alise Cartwright

Jason DeLoach

Athena Malloy Groves

Sheriff

John Carr

PHOTO COURTESY OF JACKIE HICKS

The Department of Communications is really three different Departments all rolled into one.

Their primary job is to disseminate information to residents, businesses, and visitors about all Laurel has to offer.

Communications Director Audrey Barnes says they use three main tools to do that.

“We have a community email distribution list that allows us to send press releases directly to people’s smart phones and inboxes on their computers” she said. “Social Media is one of the fastest means to get information out, and the City maintains nearly two dozen Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts. And Laurel TV, on Comcast channel 996 or 71, and Verizon channel 12, is the third tool in our communications toolbox,“ Barnes said.

Ms. Barnes says the Department earned the awards for its COVID-19 documentary and

“Take the Shot Laurel” Vaccine PSA. Reporter Jamal Williams won a Telly for his story on a local racing phenom.

“That recognition for the Communications Department was especially rewarding during the pandemic, which kept the studio closed for months. It showed us that we can find a way to communicate with the

The City of Laurel Passport Acceptance facility is also part of the Communications Department.

Full-time Passport Agent Anngie Morales, and three other trained parttime agents in the Department, process thousands of applications each year. And finally, nearly everyone doing business with the City of Laurel deals with one of the most important roles within the Department of Communications, the Front Desk Receptionist. Not only does Maria Moscoso accept and transfer hundreds of calls daily, she also processes the mail, and is always on point as the first and friendliest impression of the City of Laurel. Ms. Moscoso speaks Spanish fluently and is a tremendous asset to our growing Hispanic community when they call or stop by the Municipal Center for a Passport or other business.

The Laurel TV team continued its winning ways during this year’s television industry awards season, bringing home two International Telly Awards, and two Communicator Awards from the Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts.

community, even in the midst of a crisis,” Ms. Barnes said.

Coming soon, Laurel TV will open a membership-based, podcast room. It will be available, not only to City employees and elected officials, but community contributors too.

“Adding the podcast room to our multimedia facility allows us to engage and communicate with the community in one of the most interactive and technologically advanced ways available,” says Assistant Communications Director Joyce Jackson.

“Plus, it’s fun!”

ALL INCLUSIVE PLAYGR OUND AT DISCOVERY PARK

On September 28, 2022, Mayor Craig A. Moe, Council member Keith Sydnor and City staff unveiled the updated and new playground equipment at Discovery Park.

With funds made possible through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), an already ADA compliant playground went to the next level and was made an All Inclusive playground. The new equipment allows for the accessibility of ALL levels of social, emotional and physical abilities.

New equipment includes:

 Expression Swing

 Zero G Swing Seat

 Arch Swing

 Inclusive Whirl

 GT Wave Climber and

 Non Verbal Communication Board with Braille

Other great amenities that were added:

 Porta Pot replaced with a waterless year -round restroom

 Parking lot to accommodate 12 vehicles

 Picnic Tables

 Shade Structures

 New vinyl fencing

 Replaced rubber surfacing

To be added to our Citizens Email List, contact laurelpio@laurel.md.us. Is your organization having an event? Send the notice to socialmedia@laurel.md.us.

 And new sustainable features such as a solar bench and solar -powered Bigbelly Compactor. With the completion of Discovery Park, look for more of the same great improvements at other areas:

 Another All Inclusive playground at McCullough Field

 Fitness Stations at Cypress Athletic Field and Sweitzer Park.

Thanks to the support of the Mayor and City Council and hard work of Laurel Parks and Recreation, all of Laurel’s children have a great place to play!

IT’ S EASY BEING GREEN…

STAYING GREEN AND SU STAINABLE IN LAUREL!

We had a beautiful day and a good turnout for the first Sustainable Saturday event on September 10th. The City’s Department of Communication came out and created a fantastic video of the event, especially showcasing our first BEE CITY USA table. Check out the video on the Green Living Resources page.

we are encouraging residents to be more mindful of what they consume, where and how to properly recycle, to pledge to recycle more and how to recycle right in their everyday lives. Keep America Beautiful, along with its partners, urges people to pledge to reduce, reuse, repurpose & recycle. The #BeRecycled pledge is a promise to actively choose to live a recycled lifestyle by:

• Recycling at home, work, school and on the go;

• Buying products made with recycled content; and

• Educating and encouraging friends, family, and neighbors to take the #BeRecycled pledge.

and come join us!

The GreenDrop charity will have a vehicle on site to collect lightly-used home goods. In honor of October being Blindness Awareness Month, all items donated during this event will benefit the Federation of the Blind charity. Receipts for charitable donation deductions for your taxes will be available.

Residents can drop off clothing and small household appliances for GreenDrop. A full list of acceptable and unacceptable items can be found at www.gogreendrop.com.

Bee City USA now has its own page on the Green Living Resource page! If you have questions about the program, upcoming events or if you want to become a pollinator supporter, e-mail beecity@laurel.md.us and we will include you on the “events” listing.

Green Tip:

The 26th Annual National America Recycles Day (ARD) is Tuesday, November 15, 2022. America Recycles Day is the only nationally recognized day dedicated to promoting and celebrating recycling in the United States! This year, on November 15th,

For more information on how you can take the pledge and enter to win regional prizes from the Metropolitan Council of Governments, check out the City’s Green Living Resources page at https://www.cityoflaurel.org/green.

Fall Recycling Event:

A quick reminder that our Semi -Annual Ecycle, Paper Shredding, GreenDrop, and Styrofoam Recycling Event is happening Saturday, October 22, 2022, from 8:00am to 12:00pm at the Public Works facility located at 305-307 First Street.

Gather up your old, important papers, old electronics, lightly-used home goods and certain Styrofoam products

Discovery Park: Un Parque Infantil que lo Incluye todo

El 28 de Septiembre de 2022, el alcalde Craig A. Moe, el concejal Sydnor y el personal de la Ciudad dieron a conocer el nuevo y actualizado equipo de juegos en Discovery Park.

Con fondos hechos posibles a través de la Ley del Plan de Rescate Estadounidense (ARPA), un patio de recreo que ya cumplía con ADA pasó al siguiente nivel y se convirtió en un patio de recreo todo incluido. Gracias al apoyo del Alcalde y el Concejo Municipal y al arduo trabajo de Laurel Parks and Recreation, ¡todos los niños de Laurel tienen un excelente lugar para jugar!

You can also bring your Styrofoam packaging to the October 22nd event and EPS Industry Alliance will collect and recycle the products into things such as surfboards, picture frames, construction material, and new packaging.

We Want to Hear from YOU! Sign up for Green Living updates at www.cityoflaurel.org/greenliving.

C onociendo El Departmento de Comunicaciones

El trabajo principal del Departamento de Comunicación es difundir información a los residentes, empresas y visitantes sobre todo lo que Laurel tiene para ofrecer.

La directora de comunicaciones, Audrey Barnes, dice que usan tres herramientas principales para hacerlo: mediante el uso de una lista de distribución de correo electrónico de la comunidad que nos permite enviar comunicados de prensa directamente a las personas; a través de las Redes Sociales, que es uno de los medios más rápidos para difundir información; ya través de Laurel TV, en el canal 996 o 71 de Comcast, y el canal 12 de Verizon.

Laurel Counci l Connections

Legislation

Listed below are recent legislative actions taken by the Laurel City Council during past Mayor and City Council meetings. For further information on any of these legislative actions, please feel free to contact the Office of the City Clerk at 301-725-5300 x2121 or at clerk@laurel.md.us.

Adopted Legislation:

 Ordinance No. 1999, Text Amendment No. 262, to amend the Unified Land Development Code, Chapter 20 "Land Development and Subdivision Regulations,” to Update the Use Tables in Residential, Commercial, Industrial, and Office Zones, to Update the Schedule of Parking Requirements, and to Update the Definitions therein.

 Ordinance No. 2000, to amend Chapter 6 – Elections, Article II Election Officials, to increase the membership of the Board of Election Supervisors to five (5) members and providing an effective date

 Ordinance No. 2001, to amend the General Operating Budget and Capital Improvement Program of the Mayor and City Council of Laurel, Maryland, for the Fiscal Year July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022, and to provide an effective date.

Bid Recommendations:

Purchase of a truck chassis for a small refuse truck - Public Works - $65,495

Purchase of T300 diesel engine for replacement of Refuse Truck - Public Works - $42,394

Replacement of asphalt parking lot at the Stephen P. Turney Recreation ComplexParks and Recreation - $77,800

Enterprise Vehicles - Laurel Police$238,260

Purchase of Ammunition - Laurel Police$59,998

Employee Benefit Insurance - Budget and Personnel Services

Mayoral Appointments/Reappointments:

 James Cornwell-Shiel, Director, Information Technology

 Fred Smalls, Board of Appeals City Administrator Appointment:

 Sara Green, CMC, Clerk to the Council

REMINDER: City of Laurel General Elections are set for November 7, 2023!

The Board of Election Supervisors are always looking for Election Judges. Interested? Email the Clerk to the Board of Elections at krau@laurel.md.us for requirements and qualifications to become an Election Judge.

COUNCIL O FFICE

Gover nme nt M ee tings

October Government Meetings

 October 18th - Virtual Planning Commission (6:00p)

 October 24th - In Person Mayor and City Council Meeting (6:00p)

 October 27th - In Person Board of Appeals (6:00p)

November Government Meetings

 November 2nd - Virtual Mayor and City Council Work Session (6:00p)

 November 8th - Historic District Commission (6:00p)

 November 14th - Virtual Mayor and City Council Meeting (6:00pm)

 November 15th - Planning Commission (6:00p)

 November 28th - In-Person Mayor and City Council Meeting (6:00p)

Ci ty Anno unceme nts & Even ts

 Leaf Vacuuming

 Starts around the end of October, ends around the beginning of December. Sign up for DPW notices at cityoflaurel.org/dpw/whats-new.

 40th Main Street Festival

 October 15th: 9:00am - 4:00pm

 Ecycle, Paper Shredding, GreenDrop, EPS Event

 October 22nd: Public Works Facility, 305-307 First Street - 8:00amNoon

 Main Street Trick or Treat

 October 27th: 6:00 - 8:00pm

 Take-Away Treat Spooktacular

 October 28th: RJD Community Center - 6:30 - 8:30pm

 Trick or Treat in the City Laurel

 October 31st: 6:00 - 8:00pm

 Harvest Moon Hayride

 November 4th: Riverfront Park - 6:00 - 9:00pm

 Veterans’ Day - November 11, 2022

 City/Passport Offices CLOSED. Visit cityoflaurel.org/calendars for collection details.

 LARS Turkey Trot

 November 24th: McCullough Field - 8:00am

 Thanksgiving - November 24 & 25, 2022

 City/Passport Offices CLOSED. Visit cityoflaurel.org/calendars for collection details.

(Da tes and Times Subject to Change)

Public Works Monthly Glance

On September 20, 2022, the City of Laurel was recognized by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for obtaining required criteria to take part in the Community Rating System (CRS). The CRS is a voluntary incentive program that recognizes and encourages community floodplain management practices that exceed the minimum requirement of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The City is 1 of 20,000 communities that participates in the program and received a Class 7 rating, which qua lifies each NFIP policyholder in the City for an average $134 savings on their annual premium (15%). Overall, the City of Laurel ’s CRS accomplishment results in a total annual savings of $15,000 for NFIP policyholders in the City.

Some activities the City partakes in to achieve this classification is:

• The City maintains procedures for managing flood-related construction certificates.

• Updated the City’s Municipal Code to ensure the City exceeded the NFIP regulatory standards

• Outreach actives such as brochure designed for real estate agents to provide to their clients, social media, webinars, advert isements.

In the last year, FEMA has implemented a new pricing methodology called Risk 2.0 which leverages industry best practices and cutting-edge technology to enable FEMA to deliver rates that are actuarily sound, equitable, easier to understand and better reflect a property’s flood risk. With this new methodology, residents outside of the floodplain can receive flood policies at a discounted rate as well.

The Office of Emergency Management encourages you to prepare now by reviewing your flood insurance policy or talking to your insurance agent about getting a NFIP flood insurance policy. Policy holders will typically collect, on average, $24,000 for damages, but if a disaster is classified as a Presidential Disaster, a policy holder will only receive $4,000 if there is no flood insurance policy in place.

For more information on flood policies, please visit www.floodsmart.gov.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Send your event information to Katie V. Jones at katie@streetcar suburbs.news

MONTPELIER HOUSE MUSEUM, 9650 Muirkirk Road. 301.377.7817

Fighting Destiny: The Untold Story of Montpelier's Enslaved Population. Join the outdoor tour and learn about the people who built Prince George’s County. Oct. 15, 1:30 to 3 p.m. $5

Hidden Spaces Tour: Tour the normally closed areas of the Montpelier House Museum and learn more about its 237-year history. Oct. 16, 3:30 to 5 p.m. $10-$15.

Autumn Tea: Enjoy tea, snacks and celebrate Autumn with family and friends in Montpelier’s East Wing. Oct. 22, 2 p.m. $28-$32.

Ask-a-Historian: Join Laurel resident Jim Cross and Montpelier staff member Ann Wagner as they share local folk tales. Oct. 27, 5 to 8 p.m. Free.

MONTPELIER ARTS CENTER, 9652 Muirkirk Road. 301.377.7800

Smooth Sounds for Seniors: Ms. Gayle and Friends provide an afternoon of comedy. Oct. 20, Noon. $12.

Quiet Life Motel: David Schulman, a violinist and composer, performs jazz harmonies. Oct. 21, 8 p.m. $25.

Benjamin Burney: Nationally and internationally known opera singer Benjamin Burney performs. Oct. 23, 3 p.m. $5.

The Brilliance and Resilience of Tap Dancing: Baakari Wilder taps to jazz and blues music. Nov. 5, 8 p.m. $25.

Current Exhibits:

Dreamer’s House and Anomalies in Time: Photographs by Regina Deluise and Jay Gould. Explore the passage and paradoxes of time. Exhibit through Oct. 23 in the Main Gallery.

Christina Haslinger: Exhibit features abstract paintings in various mediums. Through Oct. 22 in the Library Gallery.

Jeremy White: Exhibit of clay figures. Through Oct. 16 in the Resident Artist Gallery.

LAUREL HISTORY

MUSEUM, 817 Main St. 301.725.7975

Foods of Fiction: “Sleepy Hollow.” The Laurel Historical Society and the Laurel Library hold a culinary and literary lecture series to explore historical contexts and share recipes. Oct. 19, 6:30 p.m. at the Laurel Library, 507 7th St.

Children’s Fall Harvest Day: Children can do crafts, sample pumpkin foods and take home goodies. Nov. 6, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Current Exhibit:

What’s Cookin’ Laurel? Restaurants, Recipes and Community. Exhibit explores the many ways we connect with our past and each other through food. Discover Laurel’s farmers, restaurants, food stores, African American traditions and community cookbooks. Free. Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, noon to 4 p.m., through Dec. 18.

Edgar and Virginia Poe Death Exhibit: Explore the hidden history of Virginia Poe, wife and muse of author Edgar Allen Poe, and how she shaped Poe’s work even from beyond the grave. Presented with Poe Baltimore. Opens Oct. 21 through Nov. 27.

PATUXENT RESEARCH

REFUGE. Programs are free; some require advance registration, and all may be subject to change or cancellation due to weather or low enrollment. For more information and to register, call 301.497.5887

South Tract, 10901 Scarlet Tanager Loop

Pollinators in a Pot — Native Plants for Patios and Decks: Join an informative session about using a deck or patio to create a wildlife habitat and adopt a native plant. Oct. 22, 2 to 3 p.m.

Family Fun — Creepy Critters: Come learn about creepy and cool

animals through games, crafts and hands-on activities. Oct. 21, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Oct. 22, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Junior Wildlife Ranger: Explore five nature-related activities with a Refuge Ranger and complete your Junior Wildlife Ranger (JWR) activity booklet and earn a JWR badge along the way. Ages 6 to 10. Oct. 22, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

North Tract, 230 Bald Eagle Drive

Riding Bicycles to Experience North Tract: Bring your bike, helmet, snacks and refreshments and experience the beauty of local wildlife. Ages 10 and up. Oct. 22, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Skulls Identification: Examine animal skulls to make a hypothesis about the way they lived their lives. Ages 5 and up. Oct. 16, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

ONGOING

Bingo at American Legion Post 60. Friday night bingo every week; 23 games with cash prizes, food and drinks for purchase. Doors open at 5 p.m.; bingo starts at 7:30 p.m. 2 Main St. 301.725.2302

Every Tuesday Bingo. Hosted every week by the Laurel Friendship Club; no admission fee, fee for cards. Doors open at 11 a.m.; bingo starts at noon. Laurel-Beltsville Senior Activities Center, 7120 Contee Road. 301.206.3380

Art for the Birds — A Birdhouse Walk: Granville Gude Park and Riverfront Park - Follow the trails along the water to see the refurbished 2019 tree swallow bird houses.

ENTERTAINMENT

Laurel Main Street Festival: Laurel’s 40th Annual Main Street Festival will include food and entertainment, starting with a parade at 9 a.m. Oct. 15, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Laurel Mill Playhouse presents Jeff Dunne’s resurrection mystery, “Hellbent,” over three weekends: Oct. 14 to 16; Oct. 22 to 23; Oct. 28 to 30. Times vary. $20. 301.452.2557

St. Nicholas Catholic Church Fall Bazaar: Homemade crafts, raffles for gift baskets and activities. An Oktoberfest dinner on Friday, and breakfast, lunch and dinner served on Saturday Oct. 21, 2 to 8 p.m.; Oct. 22, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. St. Nicholas Parish Hall, 8603 Contee Rd.

Family Night: Dwight D. Eisenhower Middle School invites families to attend from 5:30-8 p.m. Dwight D. Eisenhower Middle School, 12725 Briarwood Dr.

BUSINESS

Laurel Board of Trade Monthly Networking. Virtual opportunity to meet and network with local business people; BOT membership is not required. Oct. 20, 12:15 p.m. For more information and meeting link go to laurelboardoftrade.org, email laurelboardoftrade383@ gmail.com or call 301.483.0838

CLUBS

Laurel Senior Friendship Club. A short meeting will take place followed by special entertainment. Oct. 12, 10:30 a,m,

Laurel-Beltsville Senior Activities Center, 7120 Contee Road. 301.206.3380

Fall Clean Up & Green Up: Dwight D. Eisenhower Middle School’s garden club will be working at the school from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Oct. 29. Dwight D. Eisenhower Middle School, 13725 Briarwood Drive.

FOOD

Laurel Lions Club Steamed Crabs Sale: Pre-order crabs steamed by Harris Seafood. Walk-ins are served if possible. Pick up at 204 Ft Meade Rd. across from the Home Depot at the intersection of Rt 197/ Rt 198. Oct. 22, 1 to 4 p.m. To order, call Don Danneman at 301.467.0605

Friday Food Festival: American Legion Post 60 hosts Friday dinners, with Canteen 60 providing meals the first and third Friday of the month and P&G Catering serving up on the second and fourth. 5:30 to 8 p.m., 2 Main St. 301.725.2302

FOOD PANTRIES, DISTRIBUTIONS

St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, in partnership with Capital Area Food Bank, offers food distributions on the third Sunday of ev-

THE SCIENCE OF THE CITY

The county’s pit bull ban

By Paul Ruffins

The Prince George’s County ban on owning pit bulls has been controversial since it was enacted more than a decade ago. In 2008, after several horrific attacks by dogs that were classed as pit bulls, the county council voted to ban three breeds: Staffordshire bull terriers, American Staffordshire terriers and American pit bull terriers. These breeds, along with the American bully and the similar but larger American bulldog, are generally classed as pit bulls. The American bully and American bulldog were not specifically named in the county’s ban, though mixed-breed dogs that may have pit bulls’ typical physical characteristics were included.

The ban generated fierce resistance on the parts of pit bull owners who felt their pets had been unfairly maligned. Many

local and national animal welfare organizations also opposed this kind of ban, which is known as breed-specific legislation (BSL). The Maryland Court of Appeals upheld the county’s ban after a 2012 challenge, characterizing pit bulls as “inherently dangerous” in the ruling. In 2019, a group of pit bull owners introduced a recall measure to the county council; the council rejected the measure in a 7-4 vote.

There are widespread myths and misconceptions about pit bulls — that they have locking jaws, that they bite markedly harder than other breeds, that they’re inherently vicious. While the myths listed here don’t hold up under study or scrutiny, they persist and affect perceptions about these dogs. Some of these myths may be influenced by their breeding history. In the early 1800s in the United Kingdom, cross-breeding produced muscular, agile and tenacious

dogs that were used for bull and bear baiting — and eventually for dog fighting in the U.K. and U.S. In 2007, Congress passed a law banning interstate activities related to dog fighting; that same year, Michael Vick, then an NFL quarterback, pleaded guilty to a single federal felony related to his involvement in a dog fighting ring operating out of a property he owned in Virginia.

Much as myths about pit bulls persist, so do statistics that bear out some of the dangers these dogs may pose.

A 2015 article by surgeons who treat head and neck injuries and published in the American Journal of Otolaryngology examined 334 incidents of dog bites that were treated in a Michigan hospital over an 18-month period, starting in January 2012. One-third of the bites were caused by pit bulls, and these bites required five times more surgical interventions such as

stitches and skin grafts. The study also stated that pit bulls are more prone to aggression: “Unlike all other breeds, pit bull terriers were relatively more likely to attack an unknown individual, (+31%) and without provocation (+48%).”

A 2019 study presented in the International Journal of Pediatric Otolaryngology also concluded that pit bulls had a disproportionately high risk of causing serious injuries. The study did not address whether the documented biter knew its victim or if it was provoked. The study also allowed that some of the dogs who were documented biters were difficult to classify as a specific breed and may or may not have been pit bulls.

In September 2022 the county temporarily suspended enforcement of the county’s ban, pending the outcome of a class action lawsuit filed in federal court by Richard B. Rosenthal, an attorney who co-founded The Center for Animal Litigation. Rosenthal’s suit has strong support from a number of local pit bull owners, including county resident Caitrin Conroy. Con-

roy, who was appointed to the county’s animal control commission in July 2022, is also an active member of PB Proud (pbproud.com), an organization whose goals include that was formed with the goal of forcing the repeal of the county’s ban. An avowed pit bull enthusiast, she described her mission to Streetcar Suburbs: “My most important goal is to dispel the false myths that cause people to be irrationally prejudiced against these wonderful animals.”

Conroy may have a steep climb, though. While myths about pit bulls persist, these dogs were bred to bait and fight, and they inherently carry genetically-linked characteristics that may, under some circumstances, pose real and dangerous risks.

Paul Ruffins is a citizen scientist and professor of curiosity.

Raising awareness for improving the environment

By Lenora S. Dernoga

Laurel for the Patuxent (L4P) is a group that promotes environmental work and sustainability through advocacy, education

and community action. It sponsors a broad range of community projects including cleanups and city-wide tree planting projects, and installation of pollinator gardens on both public

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and private property. L4P also collaborates with the city government and a coalition of partner organizations and specialists to amplify collective efforts.

“Laurel for the Patuxent raises awareness among the citizens and within the city government of everyone's effect on the river,” wrote Dave Everett, L4P board president, in an email. “We improve the environment and esthetics along the river through invasive plant removal and tree planting. We demonstrate absorbent, native flower gardens around the city. We reduce trash reaching the river through clean-up events. And we support local events, handing out plants and providing information about what we all can do to improve the watershed.”

An eco-friendly lifestyle is

also beneficial to the environment, according to L4P Brian Coyle, including a plant-based diet.

“It’s one of the greatest ways

to help the planet,” Coyle said. “Switching your diet is not difficult, especially when you think of the alternative. The planet is in peril and leading experts warn us that radical transformations are urgently needed to prevent catastrophe.”

L4P is working with Howard Ecoworks to plant trees this fall in an area the group cleared near the Laurel Museum, and all help is welcome.

“We recruit volunteers for our work, showing how each citizen can make a difference,” Everett wrote. For more information, go to laurelforthepatuxent.org.

Laurel 4 the Patuxent cleared the invasive plants near the Laurel Museum. COURTESY OF LAUREL FOR THE PATUXENT

The Patrons for Peace Project

By Will Kitching

Imagine coming across a homeless man who was almost blind living in a tent in the woods. What would you do?

In 2004, Ruth Walls, a 49-yearold psychiatric nurse, witnessed a Laurel police officer kindly assist a homeless man who was panhandling in front of a store. The store owner had complained about the man and requested police assistance. The officer told the homeless man he couldn’t panhandle in front of the store. Walls thought, wouldn’t it be nice if the officer had something tangible to give the person, something that might help him?

Problems can lead to great ideas, and Walls’ response to what she witnessed that day is a case in point. She developed a resource card for Laurel that lists services to support individuals

and families in crisis. Resources listed on the card include the Homeless Hotline, Mobile Crisis Team for Mental Health, Elizabeth House and the national Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, among others. So far, over a thousand laminated resource cards have been printed and distributed, with one side in English and the other side in Spanish.

Many people were involved in making the resource card that is specifically targeted for the Laurel area, Walls said, and many people are helping distribute it.

The Laurel Police Department, Laurel Advocacy & Referral Services and the Laurel branch of the Prince George's County Memorial Library System all carry them to offer to those in need.

“We are very appreciative for being able to hand out the resource cards to members of the community as we see people who may need assistance,” said

Russ Hamill, Laurel chief of police. “It is a very simple way to make sure people have the necessary information to more easily connect with providers in our area and we see it as a great benefit to the community.”

Alia Bakry, a junior at the University of Maryland majoring in studio art and Denise Aguilar, who works as a pharmacy technician at The Main Street Pharmacy in Laurel, were instrumental in helping the resource card come together.

Bakry, who designed the resource card, recapped her involvement with Patrons for Peace.

“I major in studio art but have a passion for the social sciences and may even continue my original path of study in that field in addition to my art studies. I got involved with Ruth because I felt like it would be a great opportunity all around, to get myself out

there in the realm of social activism, and I just loved the idea that I could use my artwork skills to help people,” Bakry said. “I love that my (art) work is out there in the world making a difference for someone. In any capacity, I feel like that means a lot.”

Aguilar met Walls during her many trips to the pharmacy advocating and assisting clients of Patrons for Peace Project. She volunteered to translate the resource card into Spanish to increase its use among Laurel’s diverse population.

“The Main Street Pharmacy is very involved with Patrons for Peace Project,” Walls said. “They are incredibly helpful with many people I work with and always help in a crisis and an emergency. It is an incredible pharmacy!”

Patrons for Peace Project is a nonprofit Walls formed in 2004 that is committed to providing alternative types of support and creative resources to help homeless individuals and consumers of mental health services achieve and maintain a quality of life with dignity. According to its website, the nonprofit starts by “micromanaging each client’s struggles and walk beside them — ‘hand-holding’ when necessary.”

Services include but are not limited to the following: obtaining Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income, cognitive assessments, housing, legal services/ representation, transportation throughout the country, veterinarian services for homeless individuals’ pets, and referrals to treatment centers for addictions and charitable hospice care.

Patrons for Peace Project is not a typical nonprofit, Walls said, as there are no employees.

“We function with an informal network of individuals, volun-

teering to help as needed, including our state legislators,” Walls said.

Funding is provided primarily by private donations and grants.

C. Michael Walls, Ruth Wall’s husband, has significantly contributed to the organization.

“Without him, Patrons for Peace would not exist,” Ruth Walls said.

A lawyer, journalist, musician and all-around Renaissance man, C. Michael Walls helped incorporate PPP in 2004. He continues to help by assisting with grant writing and proofreading material, and by performing music at events, Ruth Walls said.

“Perhaps the most impactful assistance that has come from Michael has been his assistance with clients as a criminal defense lawyer. He has donated so much pro bono work over the years assisting our clients with a myriad of issues such as DWIs, theft, assaults and MVA troubles,” Ruth Walls said. “Michael has always been available.”

It was Patrons for Peace that rescued the nearly blind homeless man in the woods.

“We immediately put him into a hotel for safety. We then were able to partner with the Wilmer Eye Clinic and provide transportation to Baltimore City, while housing him and arranging for him to have two surgeries on each eye,” Ruth Walls said.

After over a year of treatment, the man can now see.

“It really is about collaborative efforts occurring to help people. If one person is helped, as far as I am concerned, my mission has been accomplished,” Ruth Walls said. Donations are always welcomed. Go to patronsforpeace. org to help support this incredible nonprofit that is making a difference in our Laurel community.

The Laurel Independent, your monthly community newspaper, is looking to expand our display advertising sales team with the right person to help local businesses grow.

Previous media sales experience is not required. Willingness to learn, work independently, and promote the “value of local” is a MUST!

Want to know more? Email Mike McLaughlin at Mike@StreetcarSuburbs.News

Laurel’s new newspaper, The Laurel Independent, has hit the ground writing and reporting, but we need your help to bring home the news every month.

If you have a local story to tell or if you just have a writing itch that needs to be scratched, contact our managing editor, Katie Jones, at Katie@StreetcarSuburbs. News.

Ruth and her husband, C. Michael Walls, with the resource card. COURTESY OF WILL KITCHING

Voters to decide on legalizing recreational marijuana

By Joe Murchison

Maryland voters could make recreational use of marijuana legal as soon as July 1, 2023, if they approve a constitutional amendment in this fall’s general election.

The Maryland General Assembly passed the ballot measure, Question 4, in April, with most Democrats supporting it and most Republicans in opposition. If voters approve the measure, it would legalize the possession and use of up to 1.5 ounces (42 grams) of marijuana ( cannabis) by people 21 years old and up.

The General Assembly previously had decriminalized possession of up to 10 grams.

Users who possessed up to 2.5 ounces (70 grams) also would not be subject to criminal prosecution but could be assessed a civil fine of up to $250. Those possessing more than 2.5 ounces would be subject to punishment of up to six months in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.

If passed, the measure would make Maryland the 20th state in the nation to legalize recreational use of cannabis, according to the Marijuana Policy Project, a na-

tional advocacy group.

Legal marijuana use is not new to Maryland. In 2017, the state launched a medical marijuana program for physician-approved users. By the end of 2021, the state had issued 19 grower licenses, 20 processor licenses and 95 dispensary licenses, according to the General Assembly’s Department of Legislative Services. Two of those dispensaries are in the city of Laurel.

All four of the District 21 state legislators, who represent Laurel in the General Assembly, voted in favor of putting the question on the ballot.

State Sen. Jim Rosapepe said, “Obviously, people have different perspectives on this issue,” and the

JOE MURCHISON

ballot measure allows them to express their opinion.

Del. Ben Barnes said he supports legalization. “It’s just a no-brainer. The purpose is discouraging any ongoing black market.”

Barnes said that a legalized, state-regulated market will better prevent those under 21 from using cannabis and will end unfairness in the enforcement of present laws. “Clearly we’re locking young people up in a real disparate way by race and income level,” he said. He said regulating the use of marijuana is similar to regulating the use of alcohol, which is “much more pervasive” than cannabis and often causes worse domesticabuse and health problems.

Del. Joseline Peña-Melnyk agreed

that “current criminalization of marijuana has not worked.” She said that, in addition to racially discriminatory enforcement, the illegal, unregulated market can result in overdose deaths from dealers lacing cannabis with dangerous chemicals such as fentanyl, a powerful synthetic drug.

Peña-Melnyk acknowledged that marijuana itself poses health threats, particularly to young people. She said the General Assembly needs to do a “delicate balancing act.” She said that assembly members should study the effects of legalization in order to update regulations where necessary while also conducting education campaigns on the drug’s ill effects.

Del. Mary Lehman agreed that marijuana poses health threats.

“It definitely can be psychologically addictive, where people cannot stop using,” she said, adding “Criminalizing it over many years has been a mistake.”

Lehman said many lives have been disproportionately harmed by the criminalization. Close to half a million Marylanders have been convicted of marijuana possession, she said, and “people

with felony convictions have a really hard time finding a job.”

If voters approve the ballot measure, Lehman said, past marijuana-possession convictions will be automatically expunged, and those in jail for possession (if that is their only charge) could petition for release. Lehman noted that the ballot measure would not allow individuals to smoke marijuana in public.

Peña-Melnyk predicted that the ballot measure would pass. “Seventy percent of Marylanders support it,” according to recent polls, she said.

If passed, the measure would also allow people to grow up to two marijuana plants, would create a fund to aid women and minorities in setting up cannabis businesses, and would funnel 30% of any tax revenue from cannabis sales into communitydevelopment projects in lowerincome areas. The General Assembly would be required to develop a regulatory structure for marijuana production and sales during its 2023 session, which runs from January to April.

The general election is Nov. 8; early voting starts Oct. 27.

Stephen Quade, a dispensary agent at Green Point Wellness on Route 1 near Main Street, sells cannabis products to authorized medical users.

NEWS BRIEFS

FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS, VISIT STREETCARSUBURBS.NEWS

TRICK OR TREAT GUIDELINES

Shouts of trick or treat will fill the air on Monday, Oct. 31, as children dressed in costumes celebrate Halloween. Before heading out in search of treats, here are a few guidelines from Prince George’s County and the city of Laurel to ensure a safe and happy Halloween:

- Wear a costume that fits well and allows for easy movement. Place reflective tape on it for

easier visibility.

- Masks should have eye holes big enough to offer good visibility.

- Trick-or-treaters should walk on sidewalks and carry a flashlight or glow stick. They should only visit houses with lights on and should not enter any home.

- Trick-or-treaters should refrain from eating candy until they are at home.

- Young children should trick or treat with an adult. Older children should travel in groups of three or more and should share

their route with an adult.

While trick or treating on Halloween night may be the main event, here a few other pre-Halloween events that promise fun and treats, too:

Fall Festival: Live music, face painting, crafts, games and family fun with appearances by the Count and Peter Pumpkin. Halloween costumes encouraged.

Oct. 22, 1 to 3 p.m. Towne Centre Laurel, 14828 Baltimore Ave.

Kids’ Halloween Carnival: The American Legion of Laurel hosts a carnival for children ages 2 to 12 and accompanied by adults. Free; tickets required. Oct. 23, 1 to 3 p.m. American Legion Post 60, 2 Main St.

Trick or Treat on Main Street: Sponsored by The Laurel Board of Trade. Main Street will be blocked off to traffic to allow trick or treating with Main Street merchants. Oct. 27, 6 to 8 p.m.

Take-away Treat Spooktacular: Come by, show off your Halloween costumes and take treats home. Sponsored by the Laurel Lions Club and city of Laurel. Oct. 28, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Robert J. Dipietro Community Center, 7901 Cypress St.

REMEMBER TO SET CLOCKS BACK

Daylight saving time ends Nov. 6. Remember to set your clocks back one hour.

ery month; next distribution is Oct. 16. 9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Sixth and Prince George sts.

Laurel Advocacy and Referral Services, food pantry is open by appointment only Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Monday evenings from 5 to 7:30 p.m. 311 Laurel Ave. To schedule a visit, call 301.776.0442

Prayer Tower Church Community, food pantry, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 12 N. Second St. For more information call 240.583.0996 or visit prayertowerchurch.org/ food

Fish of Laurel food pantry, Thursday and Saturday, from 10:15 a.m. to noon, 308 Gorman Ave. By appointment only; to schedule, call 240.547.9013

Living Hope Church distributions, Tuesdays from 1 to 2:30 p.m. 613 Montgomery St. For more information, call 301.497.6424

St. Mary of the Mills food pantry, Thursdays, 9:45 a.m. while supplies last. 114 St. Mary’s Place Call before you come. 301.725.3080

Gospel Assembly Church food pantry, First and third Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. 8740 Cherry Lane, Suite 12

RUN DOWN HUNGER at the LARS Turkey Trot