07-2023 The Laurel Independent

The Laurel Independent celebrates 1st birthday, P.2

Ideas proposed for Cherry Lane bikeway, P.6

Former police chief sentenced, P. 7

Union drive sparks accusations

By Joe Murchison

The city of Laurel’s mayor and city council voted unanimously on May 22 to approve collective bargaining for employees of the Laurel Department of Public Works These city officials are now trading accusations about events leading up to the vote.

The acrimony involves Mayor Craig Moe, who has announced his retirement, and three councilmembers who are running to replace him — President Brencis Smith (Ward 2), Martin Mitchell (At-Large) and Keith Sydnor (Ward 2). The mayoral election will take place on Nov. 7.

In his June email newsletter to citizens, Moe attacked Mitchell for having been approached by union organizers in December but keeping this a secret from other city offi-

My Kabul helps Afghan refugees with taste of home

By Jessie Newburn

My Kabul on Baltimore Avenue is much more than a new restaurant focused on authentic, home-cooked style Afghan food.

It is a place where Afghans can feel at home.

“Creating a place where people feel safe to share their trauma and connect

LAUREL’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

City races await candidates

By Joe Murchison

As of July 5, no candidates had filed their election papers to officially enter this fall’s mayoral and city council races, although three people are actively campaigning for mayor. The deadline for filing is July 21.

The Laurel Independent will post the final list of candidates on its website, streetcarsuburbs.news, by July 25. The four races are for mayor, city council one at-large, and two city council seats each in both Ward 1 and Ward 2 . The mayor serves a four-year term, while councilmembers serve two-year terms.

Those publicly campaigning for mayor are Laurel City Council President Brencis Smith (Ward 2) and Councilmembers Martin Mitchell (At-Large) and Keith Sydnor (Ward 2).

Sara Green, clerk of the city council, said that two people, in addition

SEE CANDIDATES ON 5 

From left: Alex, Jaslene, Kalia, Ann and Tonya enjoy a picnic while attending the Fourth of July festivities. COURTESY OF KYM ADAMS

Pallotti’s valedictorian and salutatorian head to the University of Maryland College Park

By Angie Latham Kozlowski

St. Vincent Pallotti High School’s valedictorian, Connor Olsen, tested into the school’s accelerated science program and its engineering program his freshman year. He adjusted well to online learning during the pandemic and said that the virtual format served him during the “dramatic change from middle school to high school, where it was more hand’s off and there was more freedom.”

Olsen said his class did not have a normal year until their senior year. The experience taught him that “the world changes and you have to adapt with it.” He also learned how to make new friends while readjusting to in-person learning.

Olsen said he was proud of being the class valedictorian. In his speech at graduation, he

Editor’s note

Happy 1st birthday to e Laurel Independent!

Since July 2022, e Laurel Independent has been delivered free of charge every month to residents and businesses within city limits. Volunteer writers from around the area have filled its pages with stories covering a variety of topics with the common theme of being relevant to Laurel.

The paper wouldn’t exist without the input and support from the community. Throughout this first year, I have received comments from readers. Some are positive and some are critical, and I appreciate all of them because it means people are reading the paper and that they care.

It is important to keep those comments and ideas coming.

Environmental advocacy, leadership hallmarks of Laurel’s valedictorian, salutatorian

thanked the teachers, encouraged his classmates to keep some friendships from high school and celebrated some of Pallotti’s winning sports teams. A swimmer and soccer player himself, Olsen highlighted the boys 2021 soccer championship, the boys lacrosse championship and the track team’s success.

Olsen will be an honor student at the University of Maryland (UMD) this fall and is considering majoring in biology or environmental science.

Christy Ha was Pallotti’s salutatorian where she was enrolled

Please let us know what you appreciate about the paper or what you believe needs improvement. You can also share story ideas or news about your neighborhood. No idea or thought will go unconsidered. Email me at katie@ streetcarsuburbs.news

If you are so inclined, volunteer to write something for the paper. Many voices and views make a better read. You don’t have to have experience. We’ll help you if you are interested and willing, as the paper is fortunate to have a dedicated staff of editors, designers and board members.

Through the efforts of its staff and board members, the paper’s circulation is expanding as different organizations, including Patuxent Wildlife Visitors Center, have called requesting copies to offer. There are also plans to expand circulation to all Lau-

Managing Editor Katie V. Jones

Katie@streetcarsuburbs.news

in the school’s fine arts program. She said she was proud of her ability to maintain her grades during sophomore year when classes were held online. She said she acquired better timemanagement skills and a good mindset for her junior year. During her speech at the senior banquet, Ha touched on these themes and reflected on her time at Pallotti. Ha plans to major in marketing and fine arts or international business at UMD and is looking forward to having new friends on campus. She also hopes to study abroad in Korea or Europe.

rel households and businesses outside of city limits but still within the county through a proposed Prince George’s County Council grant. Stay tuned.

Advertising in e Laurel Independent promotes your business throughout the city and provides us with much-needed funding to keep printing. Donations can also be made to our nonprofit parent company, Streetcar Suburbs Publishing, at omella.com/streetcarsuburbs.

We are thankful for all the support we received during a NewsMatch fundraising event last November and December.

We are excited to continue providing the city of Laurel with a monthly newspaper. We hope you continue to look to us for news and all things Laurel-related.

Katie V. Jones, managing editor

Business Manager Catie Currie

Board of Directors

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 Streetcar Suburbs Publishing., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation. Editors welcome reader input, tips, articles, letters, opinion pieces and photographs, which may be submitted using the mailing address above or the email addresses provided. StreetcarSuburbs.News

Associate Editor Nancy Welch

Nancy@streetcarsuburbs.news

Writers & Contributors

Mitchell Hang, Katie V. Jones, Angie

Latham Kozlowski, Joe Murchison, Jessie Newburn, Sophie Oriani, Bob Reilly, Jimmy Rogers, Aiesha Solomon, Heather Marléne Zadig

Layout & Design Editors

Ashley Perks, Valerie Morris

Web Editor Jessica Burshtynskyy

Advertising Sales Manager

Amanda Berard

advertising@streetcarsuburbs.news

240.408.0722

By Angie Latham Kozlowski

Laurel High School (LHS) valedictorian Javier Fuentes will be taking his passion for working with people, for social justice and for the environment to the University of Maryland (UMD) next fall, where he will study public policy.

Fuentes was very involved in environmental issues at LHS.

Laurel Green Club advisor

Beth Gallagher wrote in an email “Javier joined the Laurel Green Club as a freshman, and he has been the president of the club since his sophomore year. …

Javier has testified before the Maryland State Legislature and the Prince George’s County Town Hall in support of environmental issues. He was featured in an article in Maryland Matters, ’Laurel High School's Eco-Activism Has Global Reach.’”

Virtual learning during his sophomore year due to the pandemic made hands-on environmental projects with Green Club and practicing the clarinet remotely with the jazz band challenging. Fuentes said that “Because we had so many different education experiences, [the class of 2023], can provide a lot of creative solutions to the problems in the world today.”

While at Laurel, Fuentes particularly enjoyed history and participated in Envirothon, a county- and state-level competition focused on environmental

topics. His team won the countylevel competition both junior and senior years and went on to participate in the state level competition.

In his speech at graduation, Fuentes spoke about overcoming and the importance of teamwork and learning from each other.

“High school is what you make of it,” he said, stressing the importance of “building relationships with staff, teachers and students.”

Salutatorian Abner Calleja is also heading to UMD; he has been admitted to the university’s College Park Scholars and the College Student Success programs.

Gallagher taught Calleja and Fuentes during their junior and senior years. ”They were remarkable students, lucid, intelligent thinkers and writers. I will always remember Abner for his leadership and maturity, and for the joy he brought to those around him.”

Calleja’s favorite subject is math and he looks forward to majoring in mechanical engineering. An avid soccer player, he enjoyed playing for LHS his senior year. He also played intramural, student-led futsal in the spring of his junior and senior years.

In his speech at graduation, Calleja talked about the importance of taking risks. ”There is value in every single risk taking you out of your comfort zone,” he said, adding “it becomes [either] a success or a learning experience.”

Juneteenth festivities, commemoration

By Aiesha Solomon

President: Stephanie Stullich

Vice President & General Counsel: Michael Walls

Treasurer: Joe Murchison

Secretary: Melanie Dzwonchyk Bette Dickerson, Nora Eidelman, Joseph Gigliotti, Maxine Gross, Merrill Hartson, Marta McLellan Ross, Carter Ross

Ex Officios: Katie V. Jones, Griffin Limerick, Elizabeth Shirley

Circulation: Copies are distributed monthly by U.S. mail to every address in Laurel. Additional copies are distributed to popular gathering spots around town. Total circulation is 16,400.

The Laurel Independent is a member of the National Newspaper Association and the Institute for Nonprofit News.

On June 17, the city of Laurel held its Juneteenth celebration at Granville Gude Park. The event included musical performances from the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, the Laurel High School Singers and other types of entertainment on the Harrison Burton Memorial Stage. Food was also available from vendors.

“I think we're seeing, today, different entertainment, different speakers and different individuals talking about what Juneteenth is

all about,” said Mayor Craig Moe, in an interview during the Juneteenth event. “I'm really pleased. Talked to a lot of the vendors, couple of them their first time, which is great. They’re very happy to be there and be a part of today’s event as well.”

Laurel resident Renee Few was there “to enjoy some outdoor activity” and “to reflect on history and appreciate the progress that has been made,” she said.

The history of Juneteenth is rooted in the recognition of Afri-

St. Vincent Pallotti High School’s valedictorian, Connor Olsen COURTESY OF CONNOR OLSEN

Christy Ha, Pallotti’s salutatorian COURTESY OF CHRISTY HA

Laurel High School valedictorian Javier Fuentes COURTESY OF JAVIER FUENTES

LHS salutatorian Abner Calleja COURTESY OF ABNER CALLEJA

MY KABUL

with other refugees is part of our mission and vision,” said Khalis Noori, 33. “Counseling is taboo in Afghanistan but gathering together for a meal is normal and desired, so My Kabul helps do the same work, but in a different environment.” My Kabul also offers refugees a 25% discount on meals.

Noori was 13 when the U.S. entered Afghanistan to fight off the Taliban and help the country have a chance at modern governance. Like many in the capital city of Kabul, he took advantage of new opportunities such as learning English and expanding his education, traveling to England to earn degrees in international politics.

In August 2021, when the U. S. pulled out of Afghanistan, Noori was about to start a new job with the minister of finance as an aid coordinator working with countries, foundations and organizations that wished to sponsor the development of schools, roads and other infrastructure projects. He and his wife were evacuated to the U.S., and

Noori was hired by the Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service. He was soon named director of field operations, helping 1,400 Afghan refugees get stabilized with homes and rent subsidies, enrolling children in schools, helping people with medical appointments and, overall, helping the refugees acclimate to life here.

But he could only do so much in his role. He knew many families were struggling and that many of them had skills that could help them become self-sufficient and integrated members of their community.

Noori thought that opening a restaurant might fill the bill, offering jobs and sweat-equity positions through which refugees could contribute labor above and beyond just working at the restaurant. If successful, the restaurant model could be replicated, creating opportunities for other refugees to stabilize and become self-sufficient.

Noori turned to the Service Core of Retired Executives for guidance. A good friend of his from Saudi Arabia, who owns several successful restaurants, flew over to help him develop the business plan, figure out

pricing and learn about the business side of restaurant operations.

He then found families interested in the opportunity, and they went to work cleaning a former restaurant in preparation. The landlord gave them several months to establish themselves without charging them rent.

On a wing and a prayer, they opened in May to an enthusiastic response, both from the local community and the large community of Afghans in the area.

With a focus on authentic Afghan food, My Kabul also offers several dishes common to Indian and Pakistani cuisine, including plenty of vegetarian options.

Sheeryakh, a type of Afghan ice cream found widely in Kabul but hard to come by locally, is now one of the more popular items at My Kabul. One Afghan woman who’d been in the U.S. for 45 years came from Northern Virginia when she heard about the restaurant, Noori said.

“She was in tears of hap-

piness when she had the ice cream, not having tasted anything so authentic since she’d left the country decades back,” Noori said.

A community organizer by nature, Noori has been reaching out to the Prince George’s County Council and various organizations, hoping to gain support for refugee-focused gatherings.

On June 22, the county council and Patrons for Peace Project, a nonprofit that provides support to the homeless and underserved populations, sponsored a dinner. Three refugees spoke, along with representatives from city and community organizations.

“Agencies and organizations can help refugees to an extent, but ultimately people need to find their way to self-sufficiency,” Noori said. “By helping refugees connect with others, they can share their experiences, help each other get connected and acculturated, and support each other getting on their feet. What better way to do that than over a meal?”

My Kabul restaurant is at 13919 Baltimore Avenue; for more information, including a menu and hours, go to mykabul.us.

My Kabul opened recently on Baltimore Avenue. COURTESY OF KHALIS NOORI

UM Laurel Medical Center Now Open

We’re here to help build a stronger and healthier Laurel, connecting you to the innovation of academic medicine all in one new location. And this is just the beginning. Look for additional services as we evolve to meet your ever-changing wellness needs and drive to improve the health of Maryland. That’s a better state of care.

A better state of care right where you need it.

umms.org/laurel

to the three councilmembers, had taken out candidate filing packets for the mayoral race and could decide to register as candidates up to July 21.

Smith, Mitchell and Sydnor have to file their official papers by that date.

Frederick Smalls, a former city councilmember and current Maryland assistant secretary of state for administration and finance, said in May that he was considering running for mayor but has decided not to run. (Green confirmed that Smalls did not pick up a mayoral packet.) Green said that individuals had taken city council candidate packets for the at-large seat (one packet), the Ward 1 seat (four packets) and the Ward 2 seat (one packet).

One more person picked up a candidate packet but was undecided about which office to run for, Green added.

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Your Next Address - Without the Stress Don Bunuan

21st District Delegation Maryland's 21st District

Public safety is the first responsibility of government.

This year, we boosted state aid for local police to raise salaries and fill vacancies — and we passed a new gun safety law to reduce dangers to school children, and all of us.

Initial ideas for Cherry Lane bikeway

By Sophie Oriani

At their June 7 work session, Laurel Mayor Craig Moe and city councilmembers heard an initial presentation on three potential options for a bikeway along Cherry Lane.

Tamara Good gave the presentation for KCI Technologies, which has been working alongside Laurel's Department of Public Works to develop options.

The proposed bikeway will run along an approximately one-mile stretch of Cherry Lane, from Van Dusen Street to Route 1. It will connect existing bike routes together.

Cherry Lane is a 30 mph road with six lanes of traf-

fic with dedicated turn lanes along most of the stretch under consideration, Good said. It has wide medians, sidewalks on both sides and no shoulders. Creating a safe path for bikers along this stretch has the potential to greatly increase the connectedness of the area, as the road passes Laurel High School, Laurel Lake and the Laurel Town Center.

The first alternative Good presented would restripe existing roads, converting the outer lane in each direction into a dedicated 6-foot bike lane with a 5-foot painted buffer between the bike lane and travel lanes for cars. In the stretches where there is

only one through lane, that lane would be marked as a shared lane.

The second alternative would be very similar to the first, except that the 5-foot buffer zone between the bikes and car travel lanes would also have a physical divider for increased safety.

The third alternative, which Good noted would be the most complicated and expensive, calls for a 10-foot shareduse path for both cyclists and pedestrians in place of the sidewalk on the eastbound side of Cherry Lane. (For the stretch between Laurel Place and Route 1, the bikeway would consist of roadway striping.) Good noted that this option would impact currently existing utilities and trees the most.

No proposal would affect existing speed cameras.

The next steps will be to flesh out the three alternatives in greater detail, including cost estimates, and to seek public input on the different options.

We can’t blame Canada: County air quality gets an F all year round

By Heather Marléne Zadig

Canadian wildfires have been generating an ominous haze and hazardous local air quality across the region this summer, triggering spikes in harmful fine particulates that have been hard to miss.

According to a widely reported conversion chart, the worst days in the region were the equivalent of smoking more than a pack of cigarettes a day — a grim prospect, especially for children and pregnant women. The Environmental Protection Agency guidelines prompted residents to avoid or strongly reduce outside activity during air quality alerts, as the World Health Organization attributes 7 million extra deaths per year to air pollution.

The problem for local residents isn’t merely Canadian smoke, however. According to the American Lung Association

State of the Air report for 2023, the county and the District both received an F for consistently unhealthy levels of ground-level ozone pollution the kind generated by power plants and road traffic, among other sources. Meanwhile, Montgomery County earned a C. A variety of factors contribute to this air quality gap between adjacent jurisdictions, but local advocacy groups have called Prince George’s County “an environmental sacrifice zone,” where polluting industries are disproportionately concentrated in communities of color. In response to chronically low air quality, for instance, the towns of Cheverly and Capitol Heights commissioned a targeted airmonitoring system to study how much traffic and local industries are contributing to the problem (specifically, recycling centers and concrete manufac-

The City of Laurel’s Department of Parks and Recreation offers recreation programs and services throughout seven facilities and seventeen park sites encompassing over 288 acres of parkland.

The Department is in the business of creating memories. Swimming at one of the City pools with your family, fishing along the Patuxent River, working out at one of our fitness centers, enjoying a family gathering at any of our outdoor pavilions, jogging around Granville Gude Lake, and volunteering to help beautify a park are just a few of the many activities you and your family can in enjoy in Laurel.

The individual, community, economic, and environmental benefits of parks and recreation opportunities to the City are innumerable. The Department provides opportunities for living, learning, and leading full and productive lives, as well as avenues to experience purpose, pleasure, health, and well-being.

It is the responsibility of the Recreation staff to utilize all facilities, both indoor and outdoor, at its disposal to meet the recreational and leisure needs of the public. Some programs offered to meet those needs include a comprehensive preschool program, seasonal special events for families, children and adults, summer camps, senior services and programs, drop-in programs for children, teens and adults, class and workshop programs for children, teens and adults, teen trips program, afterschool children’s activities, and adult sports leagues.

Our Parks team is responsible for the daily general park maintenance within the City, that includes mowing, weeding, watering, trash pickup and litter control, just to name a few! As Parks and Recreation professionals, we strive to make a positive impact on the lives of our community members every single day.

Ongoing Projects

Always looking forward, we determine what is in need of repair to better serve our community. Following are current projects being worked on:

• Tennis and Basketball Court replacement

• Riverfront Bridge replacement

• Granville Gude Park Light replacement

Parks & Recreation Month BINGO!

We want YOU to do all things recreation this month! Get your Laurel Parks & Recreation Bingo Card stamped by participating in the activities listed on the bingo. Get bingo by the end of the month and receive a prize. You can print a copy of your bingo card online or pick one up at either of our community centers.

Check out our Parks & Recreation Monthly Calendar for fun activities, events, and more! Take a photo and post on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter and be sure to tag us and use the hashtag #Where CommunityGrows to be featured!

July is NRPA’s Parks & Recreation Month!

July is ALWAYS a busy month for Parks and Recreation! Since 1985, July has been celebrated as the Nation’s official Parks and Recreation Month. Created by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), July specifically highlights the essential and powerful role local Parks and Recreation professionals - such as our staff within the City of Laurel, Department of Parks & Recreation - play in building stronger, more vibrant and more resilient communities all across the country. This July, we will celebrate the vital role Parks and Recreation professionals play in bringing people together, providing essential services and fostering the growth of our communities. Within the City of Laurel, you can celebrate Parks and Recreation Month by attending any of our scheduled events, visiting a local park, or participating in many of our offered classes or programs.

“July is the perfect time to share how our Parks and Recreation professionals within the City contribute to the overall health, well-being and growth of our community,” said Parks and Recreation Director, William Bailey. “We encourage everyone within our community to come celebrate the power of parks and recreation with us this July.”

The Department of Parks and Recreation is leading initiatives and providing opportunities for people of all ages, abilities and identities to achieve healthier lifestyles, promote and understand nature and environmental resilience, as well as bring the community closer through a variety of programs and services. Learn about the exciting Parks and Recreation Month activities planned for the City of Laurel and more in our 2023 Spring/Summer Brochure or visit online at www.CityofLaurel.org/Parks.

The Mansion at Laurel is now accepting rentals! This historic Greek RevivalStyle Farmhouse has been updated, but retains much of its historic charm, making it a perfect venue for your next intimate gathering. The venue includes a separate Bride & Groom Suite and large catering kitchen. The Mansion’s picturesque architecture and outdoor ground is the perfect site for small weddings, banquets, showers, and more! The Mansion at Laurel is located at 13910 Laurel Lakes Ave, Laurel MD 20707 and is the site for the Department of Parks and Recreation Administrative Offices. For rental inquiries, please call (301)725-5300 ext. 2317.

Upcoming Events:

Friday, July 14th - Outdoor Movie: Up Friday, July 21th - Outdoor Movie: Strange World Friday, July 8th - Outdoor Movie: Turning Red (Movies begin at dusk, at Granville Gude Park. Inclement weather: Movies will be moved indoors to Partnership Hall, 811 5th Street)

Wednesday, July 12th Seniors: July Tea Social 1:00pm; $15.00

Tuesday, July 25 Truck6:30

Trips:

Wednesday, July 12th - Day at the Beach, Ocean City - Teen Trip (ages 13 -18)

Wednesday, July 19th - King’s Dominion Amusement Park - Teen Trip (ages 13-18)

Friday, July 21- Friday Night Jazz to Washington, DC - Seniors Trip

Saturday, July 22th - Smith Island Ferry - Seniors Trip

For more information about these and other program, events and classes, call 301-725-7800 or visit our webpage at www.CityofLaurel.org/parks!

PARKS AND RECREATION: CELEBRATE PARKS AND RECREATION MONTH!

SNAP/EBT NOW ACCEPTED AT LAUREL FARMER’S MARKET

Farmer’s Market Update: Did you know that you can now shop our farmer ’s market using SNAP/EBT! Stop by the information booth and get your coupons to shop our market – fresh produce, eggs, poultry, microgreens, mushrooms and more! Stop by the Farmer's Market at The Laurel Quill Lot, 378 Main Street. Our next market day is July 6th. If you would like to get your coupons early, call the Environmental Programs Manager for an appointment at 301 -725-5300. As an extra treat, bring your reusable bags to our next market day and get a surprise! See you soon. #ShopLocalShopSmall

MOSQUITOES: Be Proactive!

Mosquito Control Program: Laurel’s spray night is Sunday, weather permitting. As the weather starts to heat up, expect the mosquitoes to start biting! To help combat the spread of mosquitoes, the City of Laurel will once again participate in the Maryl and Department of Agriculture’s Mosquito Control Program. This program consists of two parts Larviciding, happens in public rightsof-way, and Adulticiding, consists of City-wide evening spraying.

If you find that you are experiencing a large mosquito population around your home or if you would like your property to be exempt from the program, visit https://mda.maryland.gov/plants -pests/Pages/mosquito_control.aspx for more details.

For more ecofriendly, proactive ideas like Tip It or Toss It to reduce the mosquito population, visit the Green Living page at https:// www.cityoflaurel.org/ca/environmental -programs and while you’re there, watch the MDA’s video on the lifecycle of the mosquito. To learn more, call the Environmental Program Manager at 301 -725-5300.

Have You Signed Up for RECYCLE COACH?

Do you have questions about what can go into your blue cart? Not sure when the next yard debris or special pick up is? Sign up for Recycle Coach! You can type in your question like what do I do with household batteries, plastic containers, when is my collection day, and download our digital calendar right to your phone. Set up reminders about collections, holiday schedules and special pickup days. It is free and easy! Find the app on the City’s website at https://www.cityoflaurel.org/green and go to the Recycle Coach tab.

PARQUES Y RECREACIÓN: ¡CELEBRE EL MES DE PARQUES Y RECREACIÓN!

El Departamento de Parques y Recreación de la Ciudad de Laurel ofrece programas y servicios de recreación en siete instalaciones y diecisiete parques que abarcan más de 288 hectáreas de zonas verdes. El Departamento está en el negocio de crear recuerdos y hacer que valga la pena vivir la vida. Nadar en una de las piscinas de la ciudad con su familia, pescar a lo largo del río Patuxent, hacer ejercicio en uno de nuestros gimnasios, disfrutar de una reunión familiar en cualquiera de nuestros pabellones al aire libre, trotar alrededor del lago Granville Gude y ofrecerse como voluntario para ayudar a embellecer un parque son solo algunas de las muchas actividades que usted y su familia pueden disfrutar en Laurel. ¡Julio SIEMPRE es un mes ocupado para Parques y Recreación! Conozca las emocionantes actividades del Mes de Parques y Recreación planeadas para la Ciudad de Laurel y más en nuestro Folleto Primavera/Verano 2023 o visite en línea en www.CityofLaurel.org/ Parks.

Legislation

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

Approved Ordinances/Resolutions:

• Ordinance No. 2013 - to Amend Laurel City Code Chapter 2, Administration, Article IV Public Ethics Sections, 2-53. “Definitions”, 2-54 “Administration”, 2-55 “Prohibited Conduct and Interests”, 2-56 “Financial Disclosure- Elected Officials, Appointed Officials, Candidates and Employees”, 2-59 “Enforcement”, and Providing for an Effective Date

• Resolution No. 8-2023 - an Emergency Resolution of the Mayor and City Council of Laurel, Maryland to Oppose the United States Congress House Resolution 3557 (“H.R. 3557”), Entitled “American Broadband Act of 2023”

Bid Approvals:

• Van Dusen Dam Repairs - $39,795 - Awarded 6/12/23

• Multi Function Copier Lease (5 years)$169,020 - Awarded 6/12/23

• LPD Ammunition Purchase - $55,000 (through State Contract) - Awarded 6/12/23

• LPD Fleet Lease (Enterprise) - $274,560Awarded 6/12/23

Mayoral Appointments/Re-Appointments:

• Alex Antunes - Arts Council - Appointed 6/12/23

• Maria Gonzales-Jackson - Youth Services Commission – Appointed 6/12/23

• Karen Lubieniecki - Ethics Commission - Appointed 6/12/23

• Giovanna Williams - Public Safety and Transportation - Appointed 6/12/23

• Maxene Bardwell - Ethics Commission - Appointed 6/12/23

• Eileen Collins - Youth Services CommissionAppointed

• Craig Frederick - Youth Services CommissionAppointed

• Toi Davis - Education Advisory CommitteeAppointed

• Maria Gonzales-Jackson - Education Advisory Committee - Appointed

• Allen Grimes - Education Advisory CommitteeEducation Advisory Committee -

July 2023 Boards and Commissions

 July 11th - In-Person Planning Commission (6:00pm)

 July 18th - Historic District Commission (6:00pm)

 July 27th - In-Person Board of Appeals (6:00pm)

August 2023 Mayor and City Council Meetings

 On Hiatus. All Mayor and Council Meetings and Work Sessions are CANCELLED.

August 2023 Boards and Commissions

 On Hiatus. All Board and Commission Meetings are CANCELLED.

Island Ferry Seniors Trip

 July 25, 2023 - Touch-a-Truck - 6:30 - 8pm, Emancipation Park

 July 26, 2023 - City Hall in the Park - 6:30pm, Overlook Park

 July 28, 2023 - Free Outdoor Movie: Turning Red - starts at Dusk - Gude Park

 August 4, 2023 - Free Outdoor Movie: Puss ‘n Boots: Last Adventurestarts at Dusk - Gude Park

 August 11, 2023 - Free Outdoor Concert: Dupont Brass - 7pm - Gude Park

 August 26, 2023 - Community and Culture Day - 2 - 5pm, McCullough Field - Celebrate and learn about the different cultures, food, community groups and more!

HELPING HANDS: Mental Health Awareness

Laurel’s Youth Services Bureau, Helping Hands, has a mission to strengthen families and help individuals thrive by equipping everyone – youth and adults

with the skills they need so that they can be their best selves at home, in school, at work and in the community. They provide individual and family counseling, crisis intervention, substance use screening for PGCPS students and special education advocacy. They also provide mental health education by offering presentations on mental health issues and distributing mental health information in the community. To learn more about this much-needed service, call them at 240-294-1304 or visit www.CityofLaurel.org. Page 3

As Mother Nature starts to turn up the heat this summer, be prepared! Extreme heat is a period of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days. In extreme heat your body works extra hard to maintain a normal temperature, which can lead to heat illness and death. Older adults and children are at greater risk from extreme heat. When humidity increases, expect to feel the heat more!

Know the signs of heat -related illnesses - dizziness, headache, muscle cramps, fainting, nausea and vomiting, just name a few - and ways to respond - rehydration, cooling, and medications. If you are sick and need immediate medical attention, call 9-1-1.

Ways you can prepare for extreme heat are, if you have an air conditioner, stay indoors! Do not rely on a fan as a primary co oling device. It can give a false sense of cooling and put you at risk for heat illness, Cover your windows with shades, weathe rstrip doors and windows and most importantly, HYDRATE. If you are unable to cool your home, identify places in your community where you can go to get cool such as libraries and shopping malls or contact your local health department to find a co oling center in your area (Laurel Beltsville Senior Center, 7120 Contee Road, is the closest one in Laurel).

If you are unable to afford cooling costs, weatherization or energy-related home repairs, visit the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) website at https://www.benefits.gov/benefit/623 for help.

Visit https://www.ready.gov/heat for more information on Beating the Heat!

turing plants).

County government reports have also highlighted persistent and pervasive environmental justice concerns, particularly related to placement of airpolluting power plants. In 2016, Earthjustice submitted a Title VI civil rights complaint on behalf of local advocacy groups in southern Prince George’s County to the federal government, claiming that the state's natural resources and environmental departments discriminated against the majority-Black unincorporated community of Brandywine by approving two new power plants near three existing plants within 13 miles of the town.

The case was mediated in 2020 by two federal agencies under the Trump Administration, but the resolution fell short of the community’s goals, compelling the state to identify a community resource officer for residents interested in powerplant permits, and to develop a nondiscrimination program unrelated to the primary concern of the complaint: the plant. Ultimately, both new power plants were permitted, though

only the PSEG Energy Center was completed (the second was abandoned for potentially unrelated financial reasons).

Maryland Matters reported in 2021 that Prince George’s County generated a quarter of the state’s electricity, but census data shows the county makes up just 15% of the state’s population. According to the most recently published data, power plants in Prince George’s County produce more than nine times the energy of Montgomery County plants per capita, while this county actually consumes less energy overall than Montgomery County (see Table 1). Most energy production in both counties involves burning fuel sources, like solid waste (trash) and/or natural gas (methane, a fossil fuel), so the

Former police chief sentenced to life in prison

By Mitchell Hang

A former Laurel police chief will now face the other side of the law and spend the rest of his life in prison.

dominant factor in the power emissions gap is the substantial difference in power generation.

In contrast to the years-long Brandywine battle, which ended in defeat for residents, local resistance to a proposed power plant in Charles County, Md. — this time from Virginians — had a starkly different outcome. The Mount Vernon Ladies Association protested the proposed project across the Potomac River in Maryland because it would have marred “George Washington’s view.” Following a single week of PR campaigns in 2018, they succeeded. According to ProPublica, the ladies association currently has $342 million in assets. As of 2021, the annual per capita income of Brandywine was $53,295.

On June 27, David Michael Crawford, 71, was handed down eight life sentences — plus 75 years — by a Howard County judge for attempted first-degree murder, arson and malicious burning after setting fire to three homes in the county in 2017 and 2018. Eight people were at home when he set them afire in the middle of the night; none were injured. He previously had received a 20-year sentence from a Frederick County judge for an arson in that county in 2018 arson, and still faces arson charges in Prince George’s and Montgomery counties. The charges in Prince George’s County include a 2019 arson at the Laurel home of Crawford’s successor as police chief, Rich McLaughlin, were scheduled for trial July 10. Crawford had served as

chief of the Laurel Police Department from 2006 to 2010. In March 2021, he was arrested following an investigation that connected him with at least 12 arsons at homes spread across five counties. In each case, Crawford seemed to have acted on grievances he held against the residents, who included some of Crawford’s former work colleagues, his chiropractor and his stepson. Another Laurel victim was former city administrator Marty Flemion, who had two vehicles set afire at his Laurel house in 2011. Mayor Craig Moe said he had forced Crawford to quit as chief in 2010; he declined to go into further detail. After Crawford was arrested, investigators found a list containing names of his victims on his cell phone, including McLaughlin and Flemion.

JUNETEENTH

can Americans as freed people. While President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation on Jan. 1, 1863, it took more than two years for word to reach African American communities throughout the United States. Texas was the last state to receive word, when Major General Gordon

Granger arrived in Galveston on June 19, 1865.

“After Councilman [Keith] Sydnor put in for us to do a holiday for Juneteenth, we passed that as a mayor and council, did it before the federal government did theirs, the state government and we’ve been doing it ever since,” Moe said.

Gov. Larry Hogan designated Juneteenth as a holiday in 2022.

According to Audrey Barnes, the city’s director of communications, Juneteenth was previously recognized by a mayoral proclamation before it was designated an official city holiday on June 28, 2021. The city’s first official Juneteenth celebration was held on June 19, 2021. The Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration Committee is in charge of organizing the yearly Juneteenth holiday event.

NEW AGREEMENT RAISES POLICE SALARIES

A new three-year collective bargaining agreement between the city of Laurel and its police officers went into effect July 1, and the president of the local Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) said it is a good deal for both sides.

Mayor Craig Moe said the package will increase officer salaries and benefits by $1.4 million over the three-year period.

Aaron Waddell, local FOP president, said that breaks down to a 9% pay increase this fiscal year, a 7% increase in the next fiscal year, and a 7% increase the third year. Bottom line, officers will be earning 23% more by 2026.

Waddell said the increases can be good for city taxpayers as well as officers. He noted that police departments throughout the country are facing a shortage of qualified candidates and often try to attract officers from other departments with enticements such as signing bonuses. Anne Arundel County is offering a $25,000 signing bonus for trained officers from other jurisdictions, he said.

Laurel “is paying tens of thousands, if not a hundred thousand, to train an officer,” Waddell said. That training takes about a year. Laurel’s new agreement keeps the local police department competitive, cutting down on turnover and the need to train new officers, he said.

Laurel’s police force has 70 authorized officer positions, but personnel numbers had fallen into the 50s in the years preceding the pandemic, Waddell said. With a new pay scale instituted in 2020, the number of officers has now risen to about 65, he said.

— Joe Murchison

Steve Campbell posing with his 1955 Chevy Bel Air, which got the most votes in the Laurel Fourth of July Celebration Car Show.

AIESHA SOLOMON

Above (from left): Bob Reilly, Melanie Dzwonchyk and Joe Murchison get ready for the parade. BOB REILLY

Left: Riders in the Fourth of July parade. COURTESY OF KYM ADAMS

THE BEAT OF LAUREL

Taking it to the Street

By Bob Reilly

As far back as I can remember, I’ve always enjoyed it when reporters and comedians took their cameras and microphones to the street and interviewed people. The questions are typically the same for each person interviewed, but the responses are often all over the map. Unpredictable and spontaneous. These “People on the Street” segments are often funny and entertaining. We get a chance to see more of ourselves in the process.

So, during the Main Street Festival this year, and in the following weeks, I handed people a brief survey to fill out if they are Laurel residents or have businesses in Laurel. As people stopped by my booth, I interviewed them on the spot or asked them to complete

UNION FROM PAGE 1

cials until the employees showed up en masse at a council meeting Feb. 27. Mitchell had confided earlier in fellow councilmember Carl DeWalt (Ward 1) about the unionization drive, but DeWalt also kept it a secret from other city officials.

“Why in the world would you withhold this information from your own Council, and not advise the Administration?” Moe wrote. “It is unbelievable that you would undermine members of the Department of Public Works by withholding this information from the decision makers for three months, thus slowing a process that could have been done much earlier had you shared this information. … To me you tried to make this a political issue.”

the survey. I did the same thing after the festival throughout the month of June with people and businesses around town. All the responses are from the survey, phone, text messages and face-toface interviews.

The survey focused on the following:

Name? Age? How many years have you been living in Laurel? Do you own a business or work in Laurel? Name of the business? What do you like about living in Laurel? What would you like to see improved?

I discovered some common themes in the process of my interviews and a few surprises along the way.

Deborah Johnson, who is in her 60s, has been living in Laurel for 29 years. She said, “I like the diversity in Laurel which covers four

During the May 22 meeting, Sydnor had made the same complaint. Eliciting from all councilmembers besides DeWalt that they knew nothing of the unionizing efforts before the Feb. 27 meeting, Sydnor said, “To withhold information from the council is a lack of integrity.”

In a July 5 interview, Smith also criticized Mitchell for not sharing the information. “I think it was a poor decision,” he said. “He should have come and told us. … No one person can do anything alone. … We’ve got to communicate.”

Smith added that Mitchell had accused his fellow councilmembers of dragging their feet on the issue, “but honestly, it was you [Mitchell] who delayed it because you didn’t come to us.”

In an interview July 3, Mitchell said he did not tell the mayor and council of the employees’ union-

counties. Being right between DC and Baltimore is great because you can access everything here.”

Tabitha Clark, 51, is the owner of More Than Java Café, on Main Street. She and her husband, Ronnie, serve up a creative menu, including fresh-squeezed juices, jerk chicken with waffles, veggie burritos, jerk chicken and egg breakfast sandwiches, cakes and pies and pastries to name a few. There is also an array of teas, coffees and health-oriented specialties in the shop.

“The growing diversity within the community is a big plus,” Tabitha Clark said. “Laurel is a very family-friendly place. I feel adding more businesses on Main Street with a focus on small business commerce would be a good thing.”

Clemon Cunningham, 47, has been living in Laurel since 2005. She said, “I love the people, culture and community. I would like to see road improvements, repairing potholes and fixing up some of the old, dilapidated buildings.”

ization efforts because “they [the mayor and his administrators] have never wanted to give them union rights.” Mitchell said he believed the city officials, once they knew, would have initiated unionbusting tactics.

Instead, Mitchell said he and DeWalt attended several meetings with employees and an organizer from the United Food and Commercial Workers union, advising them to keep enlisting fellow workers and to show up at a council meeting en masse to push for recognition as a bargaining unit. That is what occurred on Feb. 27.

“I’ve always been pro-union,” Mitchell said. “When I was in college, I worked at UPS” under a union.

Lloyd Holloway, a public works employee who helped lead the unionization drive, said he ap-

Max Mazzioti, 80, is the co-owner of Pasta Plus, a family-owned and operated business for over 40 years. It has scaled down in the past year, with a limited menu offering carryout from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesdays. People can go online (pastaplusrestaurant.com) and order from Thursday to Monday evening and pick up on Wednesday.. Mazzioti said, “Our clientele are very fine people. From the day we opened in 1983, we felt like we were accepted as part of the local community. We have made many lifelong friends.”

Ruth Walls, 68, is president of the Patrons for Peace Project inc., a local community nonprofit dedicated to advocating for the homeless, marginalized people and individuals seeking mental health services. A 41-year resident of Laurel, she said, “I like living on an eclectic street and I love the small-town atmosphere.” As far as Laurel’s improvements, she told me, “I would like to see more focus on green space with tree planting and native plants. I believe there

preciated Mitchell’s and DeWalt’s help “to have our ducks in a row. … They didn’t do anything wrong in helping us organize.”

Moe denied that he was against unionization. At the May 22 meeting, he noted that he had approved collective bargaining for the police department in 2012, and “we knew that there were certain [other] employees who would want to do that. … I don’t think anybody was opposed to anything.”

should be increased sensitivity to the health of the Patuxent River and more public art.”

Nadol Hismeh, 41, is the owneroperator of the popular Mediterranean/Italian Main Street restaurant, Olive on Main. He has been in Laurel for 13 years. Hismeh commented, “There is a strong community aspect here with the great support from local people for the business. Laurel has a small town feel. I would have to say, overall, things are pretty good here in Laurel.”

Alphonso Hampson, 57, has been living in Laurel for eight years. “I like that Laurel is centrally located and has lots of diversity and green space. My biggest gripe is with many of the poor drivers on the road. They lack manners and skill.”

Vince Schembari and his team of associates at Olde Town Laurel Dental can help with all your family’s dentistry needs. Schembari is 60 years young and is a 35-year Laurel resident. He noted, “I love

SEE STREET ON 11 

Moe said the legislation recognizing the public works collective bargaining rights will take effect on July 11. He said his administration is now working on a new labor code — a set of legal policies and procedures — that could be followed by any other city employee groups, other than police and public works employees, that want to become a bargaining unit in addition to police and public works.

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Seeking Volunteers

The University of Maryland’s Legacy Leadership Institute on Public Policy, in partnership with the state of Maryland, is looking for volunteers age 50+ to serve as volunteer legislative leaders during the 2023-2024 legislative session of the Maryland General Assembly.

Part 1: 12 week course, 8/29/2023 - 12/5/2023

Part 2: Volunteer hours, 1/10/2024 - 4/8/2024 (2 days/week)

For more information or an application, contact Wesley Queen at wqueen@umd.edu

NATIVE GARDENING WITH JIMMY

Enough to keep a bird alive

By Jimmy Rogers

Three years ago, when I was hunting for a new place to live, one feature drew me to Laurel more than any other: the people on their porches. I saw folks sitting out, enjoying the weather and perhaps chatting with neighbors. Nearby towns seemed to have just as many porches, but I rarely saw them in use. In 2020, as I settled into my first season of porch sitting, I was aware only of the geometric perfection of my front lawn and the sweating cider in my hand. There may have been a few birds flying overhead, but none in my yard. I was untroubled by this, as I lived in a

ROWING

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house, and nature lived somewhere out in the woods.

Now, in 2023, I spend much more time on the front porch. I’ve traded cider for beer, and yesterday I recorded 10 bird calls with the Merlin Bird ID app. Robins and cardinals sang continuously, interrupted by the squawks of catbirds, starlings and grackles. Blue jays and chimney swifts swooped through the sky, and a rare cluster of red-winged blackbirds took up residence across the street. Sparrows and house finches visited the birdbath, and goldfinches stole a few seeds from my fading coreopsis flowers. Was I merely unobservant three years ago, or has something changed? Perhaps both.

When I purchased my house, it resembled most suburban homes, with a broad expanse of grass and a thin border of ornamental flower beds against the foundation. Just over a year ago, I smothered my grass with enough mulch to begin the hot composting process and turn

the grass into mud. Today, that original lawn and garden have been replaced with lush native plants. I have a birdbath, but no bird feeders or birdhouses. Yet the birds come because I am feeding them.

Visit any wild bird store, and you will see rows of bird feeders and enormous bins of every conceivable birdseed. The average visitor to these shops could be excused for thinking that birds are primarily seed eaters, and in fact, many adult birds subsist on seeds during the winter. However, most baby birds are completely carnivorous and must be fed insect prey by their parents. Bird feeders support the current generation of birds, but not the next.

When I was growing up, my mother, like most of her peers, was intent on giving me enough to eat. If my plate was lacking, she would remark, “that’s not enough to keep a bird alive!” Neither she nor I knew the weight of that statement. To keep a nest of baby

We Train Dogs Of All Ages

Carolina chickadees fed, the parents must feed them between 350 and 550 times a day. This continues for 16 days, on average, which can total between 6,000 and 9,000 caterpillars. Foraging parents must carefully conserve their energy, so all of this insect biomass must come from an area no larger than two acres.

Despite this incredible feat of parental devotion, fewer birds are born each year. We have disrupted or destroyed about 95% of the original habitat in the United States. Additionally, pesticides and non-native invasive organisms have made it difficult for our native animals to persist. As a result, we have seen a 45% reduction in invertebrate abundance since 1974 and a reduction of almost 3 billion birds, roughly a quarter of the population, since 1970.

These staggering numbers hit close to home. Our beloved Baltimore oriole population is down 40%.. Blackbirds, sparrows, finches, starlings and other familiar birds have taken a similar hit. Then again, in our world of ever-growing suburbs and sprouting rows of town homes, where are our birds meant to live, and what are they to eat? If we continue as we have so far, some experts predict species extinctions of 70% or higher.

of insect life they host among their plants. Even leaf damage is typically invisible — a 1996 study found that most people do not even notice when as much as 10% of a plant's foliage has been eaten away.

If a vibrant, bird-filled garden appeals to you, there are steps you can take. First, think about what you want your garden to look like and from where you might observe birds (a porch, a window or an office). Next, plant native plants, which you will find organized by characteristics at nativeplantcenter. net. Only native plants will grow the numbers of insects our birds need. In addition to going for flowering perennials, consider adding a mix of canopy trees, understory trees, shrubs and native grasses for cover. (mdflora.org is a good place to find native nurseries near Laurel.) Lastly, place a water source wherever you wish to observe your birds. A stone birdbath, refreshed daily with clean water, and a solar bubbler is the simplest solution.

Jody Broughton CPDT-KA (240) 882-4765 www.socialtailwaggers.com socialtailwaggers@gmail.com

One solution is planting, growing and stewarding bird habitats on the vast private lands we directly control. Rather than delegating wild bird management to our evershrinking wilderness refuges, we can take up the work in our own hands, at our own homes and businesses. The largest part of that work is to grow more bugs for our birds.

I have met some Laurelites who wrinkle their brow when I mention the bugs that live in their gardens. There are fears of stings, of unsightly insects and of damage to their plants. The reality is that most homeowners never see the vast majority

The facts and figures in this article come mostly from Bringing Nature Home and its sequel, Nature’s Best Hope, by entomologist Doug Tallamy. You can learn more about which backyard birds have been hit hardest and other steps you can take to protect them at 3billionbirds.org. If you need help planning changes to your garden, consider joining the Maryland Area Gardening for the Environmentally Conscious Facebook group, where close to 10,000 members share information and advice and arrange native plant swaps.

Jimmy Rogers is an avid native gardener and a member of the Laurel Environmental Affairs Committee.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

EVENTS

Open House. Search for fossils at Dinosaur Park, July 15, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 13200 Mid Atlantic Blvd. dinosaurpark@pgparks.com 301.627.1286

Fidos for Freedom Charity Classic. Single golfers and teams welcome. Blue Mash Golf Course, July 17, 9 a.m. Registration fees vary. 5821 Olney-Laytonsville Road, Laytonsville. Email diane. bernier@fidosforfreedom.org or call 301.490.4005

Corridor Conversations

Members of Uhuru Quilters Guild discuss African American quilting traditions, culture and history. Zoom session presented by Hyattsville Aging in Place, Helping Hands University Park, Neighbors Helping Neighbors of College Park and Explorations on Aging. July 22, 2 p.m. hyattsvilleaginginplace.org

St. Mark’s UMC Emancipation Day. 11th annual 5K run/ walk for diabetes will be held in person and virtually. Native plant giveaway at finish. Sept. 2, 8 a.m. Alice B. McCullough Field, Montgomery and Eighth streets. For more information, go to bit.ly/stmarks5k

MONTPELIER ARTS

CENTER 9652 Muirkirk Road 301.377.7800

Programs

Native American and African American Story and Activity

Times: July 22: Jackie Morales, a descendant of one of the first inhabitants of Bacontown, will read “Look, Grandma! Nim Elisi!” by Art Coulson. On Aug. 12, George Harley, a Piscataway, will read is is How I Know, by Brittany Luby. 11 a.m. to noon. $1.

Current Exhibits

Chris Malone. An exhibit of mixed-media sculptures, dolls and figures that tell the story of artist Chris Malone’s life. Through Aug. 6.

LAUREL BRANCH

LIBRARY 507 7th St. 301.776.6790

Prince George’s County Rain Check Rebate Workshop

County rain check rebate program for rain gardens, planting trees, adding rain barrels and more. Get help filling out an application and have all your questions covered.

Container Gardening: Plant

Your Own. Tour the Laurel community garden and plant your own seeds to take home. Bring a small container and learn how it can be upcycled as a mini garden. Weather permitting. July 22: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Community-led Book

Discussion. Join a lively discussion about is Time Tomorrow, by Emma Straub. July 25: 7 to 8 p.m.

All Together Now: An Electromagnetic Adventure! Explore the laws of attraction and repulsion through one of our favorite forces: electromagnetism!

Presented by The Science Guys of Baltimore. Aug. 3, 4 to 5 p.m.

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

North Tract, 230 Bald Eagle Drive

Photo-Adventure Scavenger Hunt. Learn about the history and features of the refuge on a scavenger hunt. July 22. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Bike Riding at the Refuge. A 12mile guided ride. Bring your own bike, helmet, water bottle and snack. July 22, 10 a.m.

Night Hike. Join a ranger for an exploration of North Tract at night and learn about nocturnal animals like bats, owls and coyotes. July 29. 8:30 p.m.

South Tract, 10901 Scarlet Tanager Loop

Family Fun: Welcome Wildlife to Your Yard. Hands-on activities, games and crafts to learn about ways to attract and help wildlife with. July 21 and 22. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Pollinators in a Pot. Create a wildlife home in the limited space of a patio or deck. Native plants available for adoption. July 22 and Aug. 5, 2 p.m.

CARROLL BALDWIN

HALL 9035 Baltimore St. Savage. 410.294.3561

Ongoing

ird ursdays: Volunteer Work Nights. A variety of projects from painting to cleaning and mortar repair. Food provided. June. 15, 6 to 9 p.m.

SUMMER PROGRAM SERVING UP MEALS

From now through Aug. 11, youth ages 18 years or younger are eligible for Prince George’s County Public School’s summer meals program. Registration is not required. Breakfast is served from 9 to

ird Sundays: DJ Swing Dances. Hosted by Gottaswing, the event kicks off with a free lesson at 5 p.m. July 16, 5 to 7:30 p.m. $10

CLASSES

Zumba with Susana Miller Total body workout to Latin and world rhythms. Saturdays. 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.

Assuage Yoga in the Library. Mat yoga with Sharon MorrisSmith. Wednesdays, 6 to 7 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. 2 Main St. 301.725.2302

Every Tuesday Bingo. Hosted by the Laurel Senior Friendship Club; free admission; fee for cards. Doors open at 11 a.m. and bingo starts at noon. Laurel-Beltsville Senior Activities Center, 7120 Contee Rd. 301.206.3380

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

Laurel Senior Friendship Club

Meets the second Wednesday of each month; program includes business meeting and musical entertainment or a speaker. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. LaurelBeltsville Senior Activities Center, 7120 Contee Rd. 301.206.3380

Jim Whitney Toastmasters Club. A Toastmasters International affiliate, the club teaches public speaking and leadership skills. July 24. 7 p.m. St. Philips Episcopal Church, 522 Main St. toastmastersclubs.org

BUSINESS

e Laurel Board of Trade Monthly Networking. Virtual opportunity to meet and network with local business people; BOT membership is not required. July 20, 12:15 p.m. For more information and meeting link go

9:30 a.m., and lunch is from noon to 1 p.m. All meals must be eaten on site. The program is being offered at the following schools: Oaklands Elementary (13710 Laurel-Bowie Road), Laurel Elementary (516 Montgomery Street) and Montpelier Elementary (9200 Muikirk Road).

to laurelboardoftrade.org, email laurelboardoftrade383@gmail. com or call 301.483.0838

FOOD PANTRIES, DISTRIBUTIONS

St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, in partnership with Capital Area Food Bank, offers food distributions on the third Sunday of every month; next distribution is July 16, 9 a.m to noon. 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

Fish of Laurel food pantry, Thursday and Saturday, from 10:15 a.m. to noon, 308 Gorman Ave. By appointment only; 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 a.m. while supplies last. Kessler Centers. 114 St. Mary’s Pl. Call before you come. 301.725.3080

Gospel Assembly Church food pantry, First and third Saturdays, 9 a.m. 8740 Cherry Ln, Suite 12

the small-town community with a huge personality. I would like more clean-up attention given to Route 1 and the Main Street area.”

Carol Worsham, 70, and her husband, Don, 76, have lived in Laurel for 38 years. Carol told me, “Laurel has a great hometown spirit. It is convenient for everything. Nice people here and lots of fun things to do.” Don shared some ideas for improvement. “We need better housing development controls, so the population doesn’t outpace infrastructure capability. Also, the remains of the old California Inn building at the intersection of Route 1 and Whiskey Bottom Road is an eyesore,” he said.

Carl Dewalt, 67, is a 38-year neighbor here in Laurel. “I like the small, friendly community spirit

here. I love the great people of Laurel and how they care for each other.” He added, “I don’t appreciate that the city is a cut-through for many commuters that often speed through our neighborhoods. I would give a big thumbs up for more speed bumps and speed cameras to address this safety issue.”

Well, from what I’m hearing out here, Laurel sounds like a pretty good place, don’t you think?

My sincere thanks to everyone who shared their thoughts on our city.

Wishing all of you a safe, fun and memorable summer!

Bob Reilly is an author, songwriter and rideshare driver living in Laurel.

inspired by kindness, informed by science, & designed to be fun!