10-2023 The Laurel Independent

INSIDE Journey to a Girl Scout Silver Award, P.7 How to get updated election coverage, P.9 Where to celebrate the Halloween season, P.14

VOL. 2 NO. 10

OCTOBER 2023

LAUREL’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Voters guide Rebuilt from scratch, farmers market returns to Laurel

By Joe Murchison and Melanie Dzwonchyk

The election for Laurel mayor and city council will be Nov. 7 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., with one day of early voting on Nov. 4 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Citizens registered to vote through the state of Maryland or Prince George’s County are eligible to vote in the city election. Sameday registration is also possible; citizens must bring a state-issued identification card and a utility bill showing their address of residence.

SEE VOTERS ON 9 

By Angie Latham Kozlowski Rebuilding a community farmers market from scratch may have caused Michele Blair, environmental programs manager for the city of Laurel, and Robert Love,

director of the Laurel Department of Economic & Community Development, some sleepless nights, but both Blair and Love were thrilled with their first season as stewards of the new market after the final tent went down on Sept. 28.

The process of re-starting the Laurel Farmer’s Market “took about three years to get up and running,” Love said, whose office oversees the market. The city took over the effort from The Laurel Board of SEE MARKET ON 6 

LET THEM EAT CAKE

Laurel safety Q&A

By Robert Stewart Jayda Medrano-Moore, a 16-year-old Prince George’s County resident, was fatally shot outside of Duvall High School in Lanham on Sept. 11. Also in September, the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services released a report showing a dramatic rise in juvenile handgun violations and carjacking violations in the state.

Crime reports published by the Laurel Police Department show that the city’s highest reported incidents of crime in 2023 have been theft, including shoplifting and personal items from cars, and car theft.

In that light, how safe do Laurel residents feel in their city? What advice would they give local officials about ensuring safety for the city’s youth? Robert Stewart, a graduate journalism student at the University of Maryland, asked residents on Laurel’s Main Street and at Towne Centre Laurel these questions.

The Eighth McCeney March on Sept. 30 was a success, with almost 80 people walking the streets of Laurel, according to Ann Bennett, executive director of Laurel Historical Society. The society organized the fundraiser, which benefits its education programs. After the march, festivities continued with the cold oven pound cake challenge and pizza.

COURTESY OF MARYA KURATOVA

SEE SAFETY ON 2 

INSIDE: THE OCTOBER 2023 ISSUE OF THE LAUREL LEDGER HYATTSVILLE MD PERMIT NO. 1383

Reach every consumer in Laurel ... for less! Contact advertising@streetcarsuburbs.news or (301) 531-5234

The Laurel Independent PO Box 132 Hyattsville, MD 20781

NONPROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID

Page 2

The Laurel Independent | October 2023

SAFETY FROM PAGE 1

Naomi McMillen, 34 Q: How safe do you feel in Laurel?

A: “I mean, I feel relatively safe in the city of Laurel, just because I have not had an adverse incident, and crime rates seem pretty low here. But when you do hear of those incidents, you think about prevention, and just because it hasn’t happened here, doesn’t mean that it can’t.”

Q: We are having mayoral elections in November. What advice would you give a future mayor of Laurel to ensure our young people continue to feel safe in the city?

A: “First, reduce the amount of guns that get into youths’ hands, but also reduce the reason why youth want to use guns

in the first place. Because you can get rid of the guns, but if the issue, the systemic problem is still there, then it needs to be dealt with.

I think there needs to be a continued focus on opportunities for young people; things to keep them busy. A lot of the kids that get into trouble are extremely creative people. Somehow, harnessing that energy somewhere … I think a lot of kids just don’t know what to do, and everything is all messed up in society.

So, just having direction would be helpful.”

Chris Brant, 58 Q: How safe do you feel in Laurel?

A: “I feel that we’re pretty safe.

We’ve lived here for 37 years, and while definitely, you know, we see crime, I never feel at risk myself, like coming out here, doing any shopping or going

out to eat, I don’t feel in danger at all — or in our home, in our community.

“Everyone — should be cautious … should be aware of their surroundings, but I don’t feel that this area, this neighborhood, this community, is more dangerous than most.”

Q: We are having mayoral elections in November. What advice would you give a future mayor of Laurel to ensure the safety of Laurel’s young people?

A: “It would be nice if there were some community activities for young people. I don’t feel like there’s a lot for them to do in Laurel. They have to make their own fun, which sometimes leads to problems, or they have to go outside of Laurel. So, I think that [it] would be nice to have some community activities for young people.”

Letters to the editor THE CHOICES YOU MAKE I am writing in response to an article by Joe Murchison which you published in September’s issue of The Laurel Independent. Mr. Murchison included a disclaimer that the article would mention sexual assault; he then went on to describe said assault in graphic detail. He may have left out certain physical attributes here and there, but his characterizing the description as a mention is an insult to your readers. Words matter.

Many of us, women and men, both, have been working for decades to learn how to talk about and address sexual predation with honesty and integrity. Decades of work, certainly amplified when #MeToo broke into collective consciousness back in 2006. But it looks like the two of you, and clearly Mr. Murchison, remain clueless.

The Laurel Independent goes to thousands of Laurel’s families, including hundreds and hundreds

of families with children, and at least some of those children read your paper. My own two do; indeed, they read your September issue hours before I was home from work. My 8-year-old son greeted me at the door with questions no kid should ever have to ask.

My daughter, on the other hand, hasn’t had any questions.

Not one. After reading Mr. Murchison’s article, she retreated to her room. She’s retreated into herself, too; she’s barely willing to eat and is having night terrors again. She was raped at knife point three years ago, when she was 9.

Mr. Murchison’s piece should stand as a reminder to all of us of how dangerous ignorance can be. Or is this simply outright arrogance? I have no way to know, really. But his lack of basic human decency is tearing my heart out.

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

I write to express my dismay that your newspaper has become a tabloid. A number of your recent articles about the mayor’s election have been one sided and seemingly biased. It is a shame that your reporting has served to divide and push for an agenda that favors one candidate over others. I’m so sorry that you have taken this direction. Your credibility has been seriously compromised in my opinion. I fear that your reporting has created an atmosphere whereby whoever becomes the next mayor of Laurel will not enjoy the good will of many of the residents of this great city.

Too bad.

Donald Dalphonse Laurel

A concerned Laurel mother

Managing Editor Katie V. Jones

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

Mailing address: PO Box 132, Hyattsville, MD 20781

ON MAYORAL ELECTION COVERAGE

Katie@streetcarsuburbs.news

Associate Editor Nancy Welch

Nancy@streetcarsuburbs.news

Writers & Contributors Melanie Dzwonchyk, Viktoria Ferus, Emily Jacob, Katie V. Jones, Angie Lathan Kozlowski, Joe Murchison, Paul Ruffins, Robert Stewart Layout & Design Editors Ashley Perks, Valerie Morris Web Editor Jessica Burshtynskyy Advertising Sales Manager Amanda Berard advertising@streetcarsuburbs.news 240.408.0722

Business Manager Catie Currie Executive Director Kit Slack Board of Directors

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, T. Carter Ross Ex Officios: Katie V. Jones, Griffin Limerick, Elizabeth Shirley, Kit Slack 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 29,000.

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

Carlos Cardwell, 40 Q: How safe do you feel in Laurel?

A: “As far as this part of Laurel, it’s pretty safe. You can walk up and down the street with no problem. You do have parts of P[rince] G[eorge’s] County where they would consider more, I guess, dangerous. But another thing, coming from where I come from, I’m from D.C., not a good part of D.C. So, I grew up around it. Coming out to Maryland point blank was …. peace of mind. It was a totally different vibe. I could say I feel safe, but I can’t speak for everybody. “ Q: We are having mayoral elections in November. What advice would you give a future mayor of Laurel to ensure the safety of Laurel’s young people?

A: “As far as the kids, the policing has to change. I would think that, not just more police, visually. They have to get out and get involved with the kids.

You can’t just lock a kid up and think that they’re not going to go back. You have to deter that, whether it’s talking to the par-

ents or them being mentors, you know? So, it’s a touchy situation, but something has to be done, because we are talking about our kids, and they are the future.”

Laura Guenin, Laurel Police Department public information officer To questions about police engagement with youth, Guenin responded in an email that the police engage with young people in the city in several ways.

The Laurel Police Department (LPD) hosts a summer camp, runs the D.A.R.E program (Drug Abuse Resistance Education program, which is designed to help youth make good choices) for the city’s elementary schools and holds community events for the city’s youth.

Guenin also wrote that the LPD will partner with other agencies and religious organizations to hold a workshop for children ages 11 through 18 to foster discussion on themes important to them from 1 to 4 p.m. on Oct. 21 at Partnership Activity Hall, 811 5th Street.

NEWS BRIEFS VISIT STREETCARSUBURBS.NEWS FOR MORE

By Joe Murchison

CITY HALL NAMED FOR FORMER MAYOR The city of Laurel renamed its Laurel Municipal Center for former Mayor Joseph R. Robison at a ceremony Oct. 7.

Robison served as mayor from 1990 to 1994, during which time he directed the city to acquire the former Laurel Junior High School building, at 8103 Sandy Spring Road. He then oversaw its conversion into a new city hall.

Robison was a lifelong Laurel resident. He had a long career with the U.S. Postal Service, eventually serving as a quality control specialist at the headquarters in the District.

He served on the city council from 1988 to 1990, and was a chief of the Laurel Volunteer Fire Department and a founding member of the Laurel Volunteer Rescue Squad. He also served as president of the Maryland State Firemen’s Association and Prince George’s Volunteer Fire & Rescue Association.

He was inducted into the hall of fame of both associations. He died in November 2020.

WINERY LAUNCHES TASTING ROOM Clyopatra Winery & Vineyard is holding its grand opening with a wine tasting Saturday, Oct. 14 from 7 p.m. to midnight at its new tasting room at 24 C Street.

The winery was launched in 2022 by Ifeoma Clyopatra Onyia, a Nigerian-American entrepreneur, who planted a vineyard on a hillside property off Brooklyn Bridge Road. She has claimed that her winery is the first in the country owned by a person from Africa.

The winery will serve its own pinot grigio, cabernet sauvignon, noiret, chardonnay, chardonel and rosé. Onyia has produced these wines from grapes from the Eastern Shore, since her Laurel vineyard has not had time to mature. The event will include complimentary finger foods.

The winery will continue to operate its tasting room, located in the former Sip Coffee Shop space, on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 2 to 10 p.m., Thursdays to Saturdays from 1 p.m. to midnight, and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

SEE BRIEFS ON 3 

October 2023 | The Laurel Independent

Page 3

BRIEFS FROM PAGE 2

FIELD DEDICATED TO CITY WORKER

Your Next Address - Without the Stress

The city of Laurel dedicated an athletic field to the memory of Marcus Colbert, the only city employee ever killed while on the job.

Colbert was staffing a sanitation truck for the Laurel Department of Public Works in January 2017 when he was struck by a car on Sandy Spring Road.

City officials gathered with Colbert’s parents at 6901 Overlook Way, near the intersection of Van Dusen and Contee roads, on Oct. 6 to rename the spot the Marcus Colbert Community Field.

I've lived in this area for years and know firsthand just how great this community is.

I'm committed to making it easy for my clients to buy and sell their homes.

My record speaks for itself. I've been recognized as a "Top Agent" by GCAAR and Washingtonian, and ranked in the top 5% of realtors nationally by HomeSnap.

Want to know more?

Call or email me for a free consultation and let me put my expertise and enthusiasm to work for you!

Don Bunuan

DON@GOBRENTREALTY.COM

C.301.213.6332 O.301.565.2523

Maryland's 21st District Delegation

Laurel’s State Legislators - Standing Up for Working Families!

More State Funds to Fix Potholes!

Potholes are the bain of drivers’ existence. They’re irritating, dangerous, and climate change makes them worse! That’s why we’ve fought to boost state aid to fix them – including potholes on Route 1. This year, Prince George’s County will receive more than $7 million in state aid for local roads — and Laurel will get around $1 million more. Next year, we will continue fighting for our infrastructure. Let us know of potholes you find and we will contact the city and state highway administration to fix them.

— Jim, Joseline, Ben, and Mary

Let us know how we can help you!

21stDistrictDelegation@gmail.com | (240) 712-4646 | 21stdistrictdelegation.com |

Page 4

The Laurel Independent | October 2023

SCIENCE OF THE CITY

A closer look at the fast and the dangerous

By Paul Ruffins This is the third article in my series examining the high rate of traffic fatalities in Prince George’s County.

Correction: June’s column incorrectly stated that the 2022 rate of pedestrian fatalities in Prince George’s County was approximately 12 per 100,000 residents. That rate was for total traffic fatalities. Based on

data from the Maryland Department of Transportation, Prince George’s County had a pedestrian fatality rate of 3.8 per 100,000 residents in 2022.

B

etween 2018 and 2022, pedestrians in Prince George’s County were more than twice as likely to die in traffic accidents compared to pedestrians in Montgomery County. This high number of casualties results from a complex interplay between the county’s demographics, road characteristics, and the national trend of people speeding and driving trucks and SUVs. Prince George’s and Montgomery counties cover close to the same geographic “areas,” and each averages two vehicles per household. They also share several major roads — the Beltway, East-West Highway and University Boulevard — and both are governed by the same Maryland traffic laws.

According to the Maryland Department of Transportation’s Zero Deaths Maryland Crash Data Dashboard, however, in 2022 Prince George’s County had 122 traffic fatalities, while Montgomery County, which has approximately 105,000 more residents, had 48. There is a similar

difference between the counties when it comes to pedestrian deaths. In 2022, Prince George’s County tallied 36 pedestrian fatalities, while Montgomery County had 14.

One reason for the differences may stem from the fact that Prince George’s and Montgomery counties have notably different demographics. According to the 2020 census, residents of Prince George’s County were 59% Black, 21% Hispanic or Latino, 11% white and 4% Asian. In that same census, Montgomery County’s population was 40% white, 20% Hispanic or Latino, 18% Black and 15% Asian.

A 2022 national study conducted by Harvard and Boston University (BU) found significant differences in rates of traffic fatalities that were drawn along racial lines. It reported that Black Americans died at more than four times the rate per mile when they were cycling than white Americans. Per mile traveled, Black pedestrians and drivers were about twice as likely to die in traffic related accidents than white people. The fatality rates for Hispanic Americans were slightly lower than for Black SEE SCIENCE ON 15 

DeMatha Catholic High School The Brotherhood of Faith-Filled Gentlemen and Scholars

Open House

November 5th Doors Open 10:30 Register online: www.dematha.org/admissions

Faith Community Service Academics Music & Arts Athletics

October 2023 | The Laurel Independent

Page 5

CONNIE LUCAS

RUNNING FOR LAUREL CITY COUNCIL, WARD 1 WHY I’M STEPPING UP:

I once believed casting my vote was doing my duty as a citizen. However, I now recognize I need to actively participate in community policies to make a difference in the City of Laurel. I would encourage all citizens to consider engaging in our local, county, state, and federal governments.

WHAT I STAND FOR: US Citizenship & Voter ID I advocate for U.S. citizenship and Voter ID requirements in all elections. Several municipalities in California, Maryland, Vermont, and Washington D.C. permit foreign nationals to vote in local elections. Maryland municipalities that permit non-citizens to vote in local elections include Barnesville, Cheverly, Chevy Chase Section 3, Garrett Park, Glen Echo, Hyattsville, Martin’s Additions, Mount Rainier, Riverdale Park, Somerset, and Takoma Park. This is not the direction I envision for Laurel.

Backing Our Laurel Police Throughout my many years in Laurel, I’m a firm believer in the dedication, impartiality and respect our Laurel Police Force consistently shows to our community. Our Officers deserve our full support.

Election Integrity Given concerns about election security, I encourage and support single-day voting with paper ballots. Rather than electronically transmitting election totals, I advocate for physical transport of the electronic totals ensuring system integrity. Results would be disclosed the following day.

Paper ballots are a forceful way to verify elections. Let’s restore faith in our elections that every single vote cast is counted!

Education Our children’s education is falling behind. Let’s partner by prioritizing core educational standards.

Parents should be the primary educators regarding political and religious beliefs.

I OPPOSE:

• Same-day voting registration.

• Unrestricted mail-in voting with exceptions

made for specific cases by submission of an absentee ballot request.

Gender Views Everyone’s private life is their own. Personal choices are consensual, adult matters, but discussions on topics like transgender issues shouldn’t be imposed on minors.

We must also be vigilant against human trafficking.

• Hiring non-citizens in critical roles, such as our

police force, as seen in Illinois and Washington DC.

• Adopting electric vehicles until batteries made-in-USA are used and solar-powered charging stations are feasible.

MY VISION FOR LAUREL: Financial Prudence

I’ll push against needless city tax hikes, advocating for a leaner, more effective budget while maintaining employee wages and benefits.

Staying Connected

Encourage all council meetings and mayor sessions be held in-person with virtual access available to residents.

Accountability

Every citizen has a right to see where their tax dollars go. Publish Laurel City Council votes in The Laurel Independent on every agenda item with a simple pro and con explanation.

IN CONCLUSION: While consensus is rare, our community’s best interests were served by our past Laurel City Council. I promise to carry on this legacy. Despite being bound by county and state regulations, I pledge to prioritize Laurel’s interests. I’m eager to represent Laurel City and make decisions based on our residents’ wants and needs to the betterment of all.

Questions: www.connieforlaurelcitycouncil.com

Together, We Can Ensure Laurel Remains A Great Place To Live!

VOTE — CONNIE LUCAS, LAUREL CITY COUNCIL, WARD 1

Page 6

MARKET FROM PAGE 1

Trade, which stopped coordinating the project in 2018 due to a lack of volunteers.

Love’s department secured a $50,000 grant from the state of Maryland that enabled the department to upgrade the Laurel Quill Lot, named for the Quill family, the former owners of the property, on Main Street. The city’s Community Redevelopment Authority purchased the lot in 2013. Love said that the city leases the lot to the market and for other community events. The upgrades included the addition of four permanent picnic tables, a shade structure and a shed.

Blair noted that the market is now certified by the USDA to accept Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP/EBT) benefits. The market opened on May 7 and operated every other Thursday until Sept. 28.

Both Blair and Love had no previous experience in running a farmers market, so they have been on a significant learning curve. They leaned on vendors and customers for feedback that allowed them to create an inviting, positive venue. Love singled out Mark Ross, of Metro Microgreens, a family-run organic

The Laurel Independent | October 2023

farm, and noted that he “was like a mentor to both of us.”

Ross was pleased with the market and the city’s efforts to restart it, but he noted the long pause (the market stopped in 2018) meant that it was “basically starting from scratch.”

“While the first week of the market was crowded, and very well attended with the mayor and city council coming for the kickoff, it will take some time to get the word out,” Ross said, adding that “Weekday markets are challenging, because most people shop at farmers markets on Saturdays and Sundays.”

Ross plans to return to the Laurel market next year. He had repeat customers this season, and customers recognized him from other area markets. “Everyone is super nice,” he said.

Alonté Cross, a member of Laurel Arts Council, organized live performances featuring local talent at the market throughout the season. “The music [was] a decent part of the draw,” he said. Mike Walls, a former city councilmember, played at both the first and the final markets of the season.

Cross has also performed at the market, though he was just shopping with his mother, Tonya Hunt, on Sept. 28. Hunt said she enjoyed supporting the market

Customers look over the fresh produce during the last day of the farmers market. COURTESY OF ANGIE LATHAM KOZLOWSKI

and had a couple of favorite vendors, including Cake’D by Niqua, for its chocolate chip cookies, and Shake and Serve Lemonade, for its cotton candy lemonade.

For Cake’D owner Niqua Wheatley, a first-time farmers market vendor, the experience

was good. Her most popular items were her chocolate chip cookies and Virgin Island tarts.

She encouraged attendance on social media, she said, and had a lot of Virgin Islanders that came for her products.

Emma Bailey, of The Bailey

Bakery, was one of the first to sign up for the market; it was also her first venture into farmers markets.

“It’s nice to meet people and see other people’s stands,” Bailey said. “People have come back time after time to get my scones.”

Ali-damara’s Mediterranean Food was serving kebabs straight from the grill. Mohammad Ali Damara said, “The market is great. We would like to see it every Thursday next year.”

Organizers are eager to increase the market’s frequency and reach into new customer communities, too. “Having the market every week for consistency next year should help,” Blair said. During the off-season, she will also work to extend the shopping experience to seniors and those in need of transportation to the market.

The market attracted more vendors and people by word of mouth as the season progressed, much to Blair’s delight.

It grew from nine vendors at the start of the season, to 15 at its peak, according to Love, who said “many people have approached us about participating next year.”

Love saw this season’s market as a huge success and said that it “really created a sense of place for the community.”

October 2023 | The Laurel Independent

Page 7

My journey of hope: Working with LARS to achieve Silver Award I thought it would be a great opportunity for me to help this cause, so for the Silver Award, I decided to put together boxes of necessities that LARS could give to people beginning their new lives.

By Viktoria Ferus

M

y name is Viktoria Ferus, and I am a Senior Girl Scout and 14 years old. I’m proud to share with you my project for the Silver Award, which is the second highest award a Girl Scout can earn.

I chose to help Laurel Advocacy and Referral Services (LARS), which is located right here on Laurel Avenue. Since 1987, this wonderful organization has been helping the homeless and lowincome people in our community by providing resources to become self-sufficient and achieve stability in their lives.

LARS was founded by a group of kindhearted people who aim to help their clients by providing basic necessities such as food, money and permanent housing to those who are ready to change their lives.

I thought it would be a great opportunity for me to help this cause, so for the Silver Award, I decided to put together boxes of necessities that LARS could give

Viktoria Ferus COURTESY OF VIKTORIA FERUS

to people beginning their new lives. The boxes included basics like shampoo, soap, a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant and shaving items. We often take these things for granted, but they can have a great impact in someone’s life. Things so simple as hygiene items, or a scented candle or chocolate can give those facing challenging times a sense of comfort.

This is not the first time my

family and I have helped LARS. Over the years, we have donated Thanksgiving dinners and participated in turkey trots, and we’ve sponsored families during Christmas time.

As I continued my research into LARS, I learned more about the wonderful services the organization provides, like the permanent supportive housing program and the self-sufficiency program.

The permanent supportive

housing program offers a lifeline to people and families who are homeless or have disabilities.

LARS provides them with safe housing, which in turn helps them start rebuilding their lives with the help of caring case managers. The self-sufficiency program helps individuals and families build financial independence, and LARS focuses on five key sections: family stability, emotional and physical well-being,

employment, financial management, and education and training to help people to achieve their goals. It is obvious to me that this organization provides tools and support to help people succeed.

Through this project, I learned that helping people in need is not just providing them with physical assistance, but also giving them hope and creating a sense of community. I wrote about my Silver Award journey in my blog at vikasadventures.com, and it has been a great platform to share with others my desire to help this organization. I really hope my journey inspires more people to reach out to LARS and similar organizations in the community to offer financial support or to volunteer.

I am very grateful for the opportunity to work with LARS and promote the organization’s purpose. As I wrap up my Silver Award project, I’m filled with plenty of hope about the future of LARS and their clients. I’m looking forward to continuing my work with LARS and making an even greater impact in the future. I urge you all to take time and figure out how you can help to strengthen organizations like our own LARS. Together, we can build a better and brighter world for everybody.

Page 8

The Laurel Independent | October 2023

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Send your event information to Katie V. Jones at katie@ streetcarsuburbs.news

EVENTS Open House. Search for fossils at Dinosaur Park, Oct. 21, noon to 4 p.m. 13200 Mid Atlantic Blvd. dinosaurpark@pgparks.com 301.627.1286 Savage Mill Community Blood Drive. Oct. 11, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Historic Savage Mill, 8600 Foundry St., Savage. 800.733.2767 Beatle Legends! A dinner at Oiive on Main and a show at Laurel Mill Playhouse featuring the best of the Beatles on Main. Oct. 15, 2 p.m. Laurel Mill Playhouse, 508 Main St. $45. For more information go to lmp508main@gmail. com or call 301.617.9906 Side by Side Fundraiser. Order online for pickup or delivery at any Panda Express restaurant and use the code 912607 in the fundraiser code box. A portion of sales will go to Side by Side. Oct. 20, all day.

Steamed Crabs. Laurel Lions Club is selling steamed crabs $60

for a dozen, $165 for a half bushel, $325 for a bushel. Advance orders through Oct. 18; walk-in sales while supply lasts. Oct. 21, 1 to 4 p.m. City of Laurel Department of Parks and Recreation Maintenance Facility, 7705 Old Sandy Spring Road. 301.467.0605

“Pride and Prejudice.” Jane Austen’s 1813 novel about the beloved characters Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. Nov. 3-4 and 10-12, Nov. 17-19. Times vary. $15 to $20.

Laurel Mill Playhouse, 508 Main St. 301. 617.9906 or lmp508main@ gmail.com

41st Fall Bazaar. Handmade crafts and white elephant sale.

Oct. 21, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Laurel Presbyterian Church, 7610 Old Sandy Spring Road. 301.776.6665

MONTPELIER HOUSE MUSEUM 9650 Muirkirk Road 301.377.7817

Fall Festival. Live music, crafts, games, face painting and balloon animals. Oct. 28, 1 to 3 p.m. Towne Centre Laurel, 14828 Baltimore Ave. 301.317.0206 Craft Fair. Victoria Falls Community Association is hosting a crafts sale on Oct. 28, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m, and Oct. 29, noon to 3 p.m. 13701 Belle Chasse Blvd.

Holiday Market. Holiday shopping featuring crafts, wine and more, along with children’s activities, afternoon tea, a German beer garden, and breakfast and lunch.

Nov. 3, 2 to 8 p.m. and Nov. 4, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. St. Nicholas Church, 8603 Contee Road. 240.762.3895

Regional Textile Showcase and Artists’ Boutique. Exhibit of textile and fiber arts and original crafts. Nov. 3-Dec. 14.

Souls Seeking Freedom Walking Tour: The Untold Story of the Enslaved of Montpelier.

Learn about slavery and resistance at Montpelier, as well as more broadly in the state and beyond. Nov. 4, 1 p.m. $10.

Hidden Spaces Tour. A behindthe-scenes look at the construction, preservation and restoration of Montpelier. Nov, 5, 3 p.m. $20.

Preservation Workshop: Caring for Textiles. How to protect items from light, dirt, oils, acids and more. Nov. 12, noon. $17-$25.

Fiber Arts Tea. Enjoy finger sandwiches, pastries, scones and tea in the house’s east wing. Nov. 18, 2 p.m. $42.

MONTPELIER ARTS CENTER 9652 Muirkirk Road 301.377.7800 Exhibits Ngoc Le. Installations made by Le with everyday objects. Through Nov. 5.

Hispanic Heritage Art. Love, Hope and Art: Woven Thread.

Abstract paintings and portraits reflecting Hispanic culture.

Through Nov. 5.

LAUREL HISTORY MUSEUM 817 Main St. 301.725.7975 Main Exhibit. It’s All Laurel: City Limits and Beyond. Through August 2024 Forest Haven Asylum History and Horrors Webinar. A discussion by Ann Bennett, LHS executive director, and Tina Simmons, an Anne Arundel County researcher and genealogist, about

the 1925 institution for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Oct. 12, 7 p.m.

Do you dig, Laurel? A public archaeology dig. No experience or equipment needed. Registration necessary. Oct. 21, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Children’s Day: Discover Dinosaurs! Learn about Laurel’s connection to dinosaurs. Crafts, snacks and take home goodies.

Event starts at Laurel Municipal Pool, 901 Main St., and continues to the museum. Nov. 5, 1 to 3 p.m.

Dinosaur Park in Laurel. A virtual program about dinosaurs and the recent find in Laurel. Nov. 9, 7 p.m.

LAUREL BRANCH LIBRARY 507 7th St. 301.776.6790 Rock Banned Book Club. Prince George’s County Memorial Library System and Prince George’s County Office of Human Rights monthly book club discusses Lawn Boy, by Jonathan Evison.

Oct. 11, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

SEE CALENDAR ON 14 

Serve Up Some Fun This Fall!

Classes Offered Daily!

Instructional, Practice, and Matchplay Options FREE 30-Minute Evaluations Membership Specials Adults and Juniors

Scan QR Code Or Visit jtcc.org To Learn More

www.jtcc.org | 301.779.8000 | 5200 Campus Dr. | College Park, MD 20740

OFFICIAL NEWS FROM THE CITY OF LAUREL

VOL. 2, NO. 10

OCTOBER 2023

FIRE PREVENTION MONTH WITH FIRE MARSHAL AND PERMIT SERVICES The City of Laurel takes Life Safety Code very seriously and with October being Fire Prevention Month, the Department of Fire Marshal and Permit Services has some safety tips to assist you this season.

Fire Safety Week: October 8th - 14th This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign is “Cooking Safety Starts with YOU.” Please pay attention! Fire prevention works to educate everyone about simple, but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe when cooking.

The Importance of Fire Safety Prevention Every day fires devastate homes and businesses across the state and nation. Fires don’t just cause property damage, though. Without proper fire safety knowledge, fires can lead to injuries or loss of life. That should not be the case with homes or businesses if we have fire safety prevention plans in place.

Prevent Home Fires: Home fires can be preventable. The following are simple steps that each of us can take to prevent a tragedy -

Protect, Install Smoke Detectors First and foremost, install smoke detectors in every bedroom and they should also be outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home! Test all smoke detectors at least once a month by pressing the test button to be sure the alarm is working. A smoke detector should be on the ceiling or high on the wall. People who are hard-of-hearing or deaf can use special alarms that have strobe lights and bed shakers.

And be sure to replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

Cooking Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling or broiling food. Turn off the stove if you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time.

Wear short, close-fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking. Position barbecue grills at least 10 feet away from siding and deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches. And keep a fire extinguisher handy!

away from flammable materials or use flameless candles.

Water your Christmas tree daily and don’t let it dry out! Make sure your tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents and not blocking an exit. Don’t overload extension cords and outlets.

Portable Space Heaters Keep combustible objects at least three feet away from portable heating devices. Only buy heaters evaluated by a nationally-recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). And check to make sure the portable heater will automatically switch off if the heater falls over.

Electrical and Appliance Safety Frayed wires can cause fires! Replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords immediately and do not run cords under rugs or furniture. If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet. Immediately shut off, then professionally replace, light switches that are hot to the touch and lights that flicker.

Remember Get Out, Stay Out! Every room needs two ways out. Make sure your bedroom, or where you sleep, has a smoke detector that will sound an alarm wake you up quickly! You must be able to hear the beep, beep, of the smoke detector wherever you sleep!

Have a meeting place outside the home, like a neighbor’s home, a special tree, a mailbox, or streetlight. Once you are outside, stay outside! Wait for your family to meet you.

Holiday Safety Turn off holiday lights at night or when you leave the house. Replace any string of lights with worn/broken cords or loose bulb connections. Keep candles at least 12 inches

These are just a few tips to keep your family safe. For more information, visit www.cityoflaurel.org/permits or www.nfpa.org! Remember………

Fire Safety Starts with YOU!

Department of Communications: New Podcast Studio Unveiled

The Department of Communications works to bring our citizens new and innovative ways to spread the news and information about all things Laurel and they are pleased to let you know Podcast City Studios, powered by Laurel TV, is now open for business.

The state-of-the-art podcast recording studio features the latest technology for audio and video shows. Content creators, residents and artists can participate in one of the fastest growing platforms for exchanging ideas, listening to entertaining conversations, and receiving news that impacts you.

Mayor Moe recorded the first episode of Moe News in the Podcast Studio on September 8th

with Communications Director Audrey Barnes as his guest. Catch this inaugural episode by dropping the following address into your favorite podcast player: https:// feeds.buzzsprout.com/2238084.rss. If you would like to record a podcast, you can purchase a membership that can be tailored to your needs for several episodes, or, if you prefer, just book the space for an episode or two.

To learn more about how to become a member, pricing or to book a space in their podcast studio, visit: www.cityoflaurel.org/ comm/podcast-room or email your questions to podcasts@laureltv.org. The Studio is available Monday-Friday 9am-5pm.

You can find Podcast City Studios’ content on major platforms like Apple, Amazon, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcast.

Page 1

WHAT’S NEW IN GREEN LIVING Fall is Here….

Temperatures are dropping and the leaves are falling. Public Works will be sending the leaf vacuum around starting in October! Check the City’s website, www.cityoflaurel.org, for an exact start date and check out the map in the 2023 Calendar for your scheduled days. When in doubt, you can contact Public Works at dpw@laurel.md.us, or call them at 301-725-0088.

Composting and Loose Leaves! Leaves may be added to your organic food waste! Use your curbside cart and mix and mingle food waste with your leaves, then place your cart at the curb on your normally scheduled day.

Compost your Pumpkins! Schedule a pumpkin pickup for November 1st by contacting Public Works at 301-725-0088 or by email at DPW@laurel.md.us by October 31st. Already a regular composter? Just put your pumpkin in your cart. It’s that easy!

Signing Up for Curbside Composting is a Breeze! Send an e-mail to DPW@laurel.md.us or greenliving@laurel.md.us with your name, address, phone number and e-mail address. Your countertop container, a set of bags, and an outdoor cart with a locking lid, will be delivered to your home within 7 business days.

We Need Your Input! The City is undertaking the second phase of the Sustainability Plan – and we need you!

Who: The Laurel Sustainability Document will be written by City citizens with any needed expert input and not the other way around! What do you want in the official document? We are looking for innovators, enthusiasts, planners, and anyone with a sustainability idea!

Why: To succeed, our Sustainability Framework must be by and for all the people of Laurel.

When: Prepare the Document this Fall and early Winter, 2023.

How: We’ll form focus groups and contact you later this month regarding meeting dates. Please contact greenliving@laurel.md.us. Check out the graphic for some of the areas we’ll be focusing on!

And last, but not least, thank you all for supporting the City’s Farmer’s Market at the Laurel Quill Lot! For our first time out, it went well and our farmers/vendors are excited to be part of the Laurel community. If you have any thoughts on how we can improve the market for next year, send us an email at greenliving@laurel.md.us.

Questions about our environmental programs can be sent to Michele Blair at greenliving@laurel.md.us or call 301-725-5300.

Octubre es El Mes de La Prevención de Incendios La Ciudad de Laurel toma muy en serio el Código de Seguridad Humana y dado que octubre es el Mes de la Prevención de Incendios, el Departamento de Bomberos y Servicios de Permisos tiene algunos consejos de seguridad para ayudarlo en esta temporada. La campaña de la Semana de Prevención de Incendios de este año es "La seguridad en la cocina comienza CONTIGO". ¡Por favor pon atención! La prevención de incendios trabaja para educar a todos sobre acciones simples pero importantes que pueden tomar para mantenerse seguros a sí mismos y a quienes los rodean mientras cocinan. Para obtener más información, visite www.cityoflaurel.org/permits. Recuerde... ¡La seguridad contra incendios comienza con USTED! Nueva Sala de Podcasts Revelada

El Departamento de Comunicaciones trabaja para enseñar a nuestros ciudadanos formas nuevas e innovadoras de difundir noticias e información sobre todo lo relacionado con Laurel y se complace en brindarles que Podcast City Studios, impulsado por Laurel TV, ya está abierto al público. Para obtener más información sobre cómo convertirse en miembro, los precios o reservar un espacio en su estudio de podcasts, visite: www.cityoflaurel.org/comm/podcast-room.

Page 2

LAUREL POLICE MONTHLY CRIME REPORT

AUGUST 2023 To find out more about what’s happening in your neighborhood, visit the Laurel Police Crime Reports at www.cityoflaurel.org/police/ community-info/crime-reports.

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.

COUNCIL OFFICE 301-725-5300 ext. 2121

clerk@laurel.md.us

Approved Ordinances/Resolutions: •

•

Ordinance No. 2016 - Text Amendment No. 264 - to Amend Unified Land Development Code, Chapter 20 "Land Development and Subdivision Regulations,” to Update the Use Tables in Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Zones, to Update the Schedule of Parking Requirements, to Update the Special Exceptions Section, to Update the Exceptions and Supplements to Zone Regulations, and to Update the Definitions therein and providing an effective date.

Ordinance No. 2017 - to Amend the Laurel City Code to Remove Article IV Labor Code from Chapter 12 Police Department and Create a New Labor Code Chapter 13 and Provide for an effective Date.

October 2023 Mayor and City Council Meetings  October 11th (Wed) - In-Person Mayor and City Council Meeting (6:00pm)  October 23rd - In-Person Mayor and City Council Meeting (6:00pm) October 2023 Boards and Commissions  October 17th - Virtual Planning Commission (6:00pm)  October 24th - Environmental Affairs Committee (6:00pm)  October 26th - Virtual Board of Appeals (6:00pm) November 2023 Mayor and City Council Meetings  November 1st - Virtual Mayor & City Council Work Session (6:00pm)  November 9th - In-Person Special Mayor & City Council Meeting (6:00pm)  November 13th - Virtual Mayor & City Council Meeting (6:00pm)  November 27th - In-Person Mayor & City Council Meetings (Swearing-In of New Mayor/Council )(6:00pm)

Bid Approvals: • • •

Stephen P. Turney Recreation Complex Lighting, Parks and Recreation - $256,343 Purchase of Battery-Powered Mowers, Parks and Recreation - $118,399.96 Van Dusen Road Improvement Concept Design, Public Works - $190,653.50

November 2023 Boards and Commissions  November 14th - Planning Commission (6:00pm)  November 21st - Historic District Commission (6:00pm)  November 30th - Board of Appeals (6:00pm)

For the full list of approved Bids, visit www.cityoflaurel.org/clerk/meetings.

Mayoral Appointments/Reappointments: •

•

• • • •

Marcia Levi, Ummi Modeste, Emily Swain, Stanley Spalding and Lisa Wolfisch - Bicycle and Pedestrian CAC (New Appointments) Phyllis Anderson, Brent Debnam, Erin McLaughlin and Michael McLaughlin - CAC for Persons with Disabilities (Reappointments) Melissa Holland Arts Council (Reappointment) Maria Gonzalez Jackson, Chair - Education Advisory Committee Rian Reed, Vice Chair - Education Advisory Committee Denise Walker - Arts Council (New Appointment)

          

October 14, 2023 - Ecycle/Paper Shredding Event - 8am-Noon - Public Works Facility (City Residents Only). Call 301-725-0088 for details.

October 14, 2023 - Pride Day - 11am-4pm - Granville Gude Park October 26, 2023 - Main Street Trick or Treat - 6-8pm October 27, 2023 - Take-Away Treat Spooktacular - 6:30-8:30pm; Robert J. DiPietro Community Center, 7901 Cypress Street.

October 31, 2023 - City of Laurel Halloween Trick or Treat - 6-8p November 3, 2023 - Election Voting Machine Demonstration - 4-6pm, Laurel Municipal Center, 8103 Sandy Spring Road November 3, 2023 - Harvest Moon Hayride - 6-9pm - Riverfront Park November 4, 2023 - Early Voting - 9am-5pm - Visit www.cityoflaurel.org for details.

November 7, 2023 - Laurel General Election Day - 7am-8pm - Visit www.cityoflaurel.org for details.

November 10, 2023 - City/Passport Offices Closed In Observance of Veterans’ Day. Visit www.cityoflaurel.org for adjusted collections.

November 23 & 24, 2023 - City/Passport Offices Closed in Observance of Thanksgiving - Visit www.cityoflaurel.org for adjusted collections.

The City of Laurel General Election will be held on Tuesday, November 7, 2023. Polls open from 7:00am - 8:00pm. The election is for one (1) Mayor and five (5) City Council seats. Voters in the City of Laurel also have the option of Mail-In Voting. All Mail-In Voting Applications MUST be received by the Board of Election Supervisors by Tuesday, October 24, 2023. Early Voting will be Saturday, November 4, 2023. Polls open from 9:00am - 5:00pm. Voters for both early and election day voting must do so at the voting ward that they live in. For details about polling locations and all other election Page 3 information, visit www.cityoflaurel.org.

CUT ALONG DOTTED. PLACE ON YOUR REFRIGERATOR.

Virtual Work Session - 6p

In-Person Special Mayor and City Council Meeting - 6p

City Offices Closed

Historic District Commission 6p

City Offices Closed

City Offices Closed

Environmental Affairs Committee 6pm

Board of Appeals - 6pm

Laurel Election Day - 7a-8p Must Vote in Your Ward. Visit cityoflaurel.org for details.

Virtual Mayor and City Council Meeting - 6p

In-Person Mayor and Council Meeting (Swearing In New Mayor/ Council) - 6pm

CUT ALONG DOTTED LINE . PLACE ON YOUR REFRIGERATOR.

Harvest Moon Early Voting Hayride 9a-5p 6-9pm Must Vote in Riverfront Park Your Ward. Visit cityoflaurel.org for details.

Planning Commission 6p

PUBLIC WORKS

301-725-0088

DPW@laurel.md.us

The Atlantic Hurricane Season is well underway. While it may be easy for us as residents of Maryland to feel a sense of security, the residual effects of hurricanes, including heavy rains, flooding, and power outages can disrupt lives more than you expect. Although our region does not often experience the direct impacts of hurricanes, this should not overshadow the importance of proactive preparedness.

Hurricanes can bring with them devastating and dangerous secondary hazards. Hazards, such as storm surge, wind damage, rip currents, and flooding, follow in the path of the hurricane. To prepare for these hazards it’s important to understand what risk you may face and take the proper steps to proactively prepare for their impacts. Taking action to prepare you and your family before a storm is making headlines will allow you to take action to keep you and your loved ones safe.

The following are some tips to help you prepare: • Stay informed: Hurricanes slowly approach over several days. Follow emergency alerts and warnings to receive the most upto-date information.

• Make a Kit: Prepare an Emergency Preparedness Kit for you and your family. Have extra clothes, blankets, flashlights, batteries, and other necessary items prepared in the event you need to evacuate your home.

• Stockpile: Gather 3-days worth of non-perishable food and water for every member of your family. One gallon of water per person per day is recommended.

• Make Copies: Make copies of important documents such as personal IDs, birth certificates, social security cards, medical information, and insurance records.

For more information, visit https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes.

CITY CONTACTS www.cityoflaurel.org Page 4

MAYOR’S OFFICE

CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S OFFICE

LAUREL POLICE

301-725-5300 ext. 2125

301-725-5300 ext. 2242

Non-Emerg: 301-498-0092 Emerg: 301-725-3000

laurelmayor@ laurel.md.us

cadmin@ laurel.md.us

lpd@ laurel.md.us

PARKS AND RECREATION

COMMUNICATIONS

301-725-7800

301-725-5300 Ext. 2208

parks@ laurel.md.us

laurelpio@ laurel.md.us

October 2023 | The Laurel Independent

VOTERS FROM PAGE 1

The polling places are the Laurel Municipal Center, 8103 Sandy Spring Road, for Ward 1, and the DiPietro Community Center, 7901 Cypress Street, for Ward 2. A map of ward boundaries can be found on the city’s website at tinyurl. com/255cm49a.

Voters can hear the candidates respond to questions at two candidate forums hosted by The Laurel Board of Trade. Candidates for city council will appear on Oct. 18 from 6 to 9 p.m. in the council chambers of the Laurel Municipal Center, 8103 Sandy Spring Road.

A forum for mayoral candidates will be held on Oct. 25 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the same location. Residents can attend the forums in person or access them through Laurel TV — Verizon FiOS Channel 12 or Comcast Channel 996 or 71 — or through live-streaming at laureltv.org/watch-live.

To view elections results on Nov. 8, go to the city’s website, cityoflaurel.org, or The Laurel Independent’s site at streetcarsurburbs. news.

CONTINUING ELECTION COVERAGE Between now and the Nov. 7 election, we will publish breaking election news on our website, streetcarsuburbs.news. The November issue of The Laurel Independent will come out after city elections take place.

MAYOR Five candidates are running for mayor: Seeta Deonauth, Martin Mitchell, Brencis Smith, Keith Sydnor and Sophady Uong. Two of the candidates were profiled in the September issue of The Laurel Independent, and two more are profiled in this issue. The fifth candidate, Deonauth, has not responded to our attempts to contact her.

Page 9

CITY COUNCIL Eleven candidates are running for city council. Below are their answers to a basic set of questions; we have edited their answers for brevity. Photos of the candidates are included if they were submitted.

WARD 1 (TWO SEATS) Carl DeWalt, 68, in Laurel 38 years Grew up: Western Pennsylvania Education: B.S. in criminal justice, Northwestern University; Associate in Science in law enforcement, University of Cincinnati; Police staff and command graduate of the Maryland Municipal League Academy for Excellence In Local Governance Occupation: Laurel police officer 28 years (retired) Special interests, hobbies and civic involvement combined: Laurel City Council since 2017, American Legion Post #60, Laurel Cats, Laurel Advocacy and Referral Services (LARS), fundraiser at Oliver’s Saloon to support families for Christmas, Brighter Brites, neighborhood clean-ups, The History Boys - Voices of Laurel newspaper Why running: If re-elected, I will continue to work on the many concerns of our citizens of Laurel: rent stabilization, speeding vehicles through our neighborhoods, stop excessive high-density development in our city and to make Laurel more walkable with safety as a priority. Now that Laurel will be getting a new mayor as of November 2023, I feel as though our hands will no longer be tied. This will enable the council to work as a close committee and perform our duties as described in the City Charter, which will ultimately enhance more government transparency. Support unionization for DPW and all city employees.

Displaying the Hometown Hero banners on Main Street.

James Kole, 34, in Laurel 11 years Grew up: North-central Pennsylvania Education: B.S. in landscape contracting, Penn State University Occupation: Branch manager for commercial landscape company in D.C. Civic involvement: Laurel City Council since 2021, Laurel Historical Society, Laurel for the Patuxent, The Laurel Board of Trade, city Environmental Affairs Committee, city Pride Day Committee, city Historic District Commission, formerly on city Ethics Commission Special interests: Gardening, entertaining friends, helping others Why running: To make Laurel better for everyone. I support fiscal responsibility, increased sustainability initiatives and increased traffic-calming measures.

Connie Lucas, in Laurel 35plus years Grew up: Berwyn Education: College financial classes, no degree Occupation: Office manager, retired Civic involvement: I always voted but was never politically involved. Since my grandchildren came along, I’ve become more aware of Maryland’s state of affairs that trickle down to our municipalities Special interests: Taking care of family and watching mainstream and subscription (OAN, etc.) media on television to obtain a general picture of what is taking place in the USA and the world

Vote for

Why running: See my ad in this issue explaining what I stand for, what I oppose and what I want for Laurel. We need to support our police, and I favor a moratorium on raising city taxes (without diminishing city employees’ wages or benefits).

Stephen J. Wallace, 39, in Laurel 13 years Grew up: Endwell, New York Education: B.A. in history and computer information science, Franciscan University of Steubenville; J.D. at University of Notre Dame Law School Occupation: Estate planning attorney with the Downs Law Firm on Main Street Civic involvement: Executive director of Maryland nonprofit for seven years, volunteer, teacher and coach for basketball and soccer at St. Mary of the Mills, Knights of Columbus, various nonprofit board memberships and volunteer work Special interests: Faithful Catholic, active athlete in basketball and football, reading, board games, Michigan and Notre Dame football, camping, hiking.

Why running: Being a husband, a father of five, a coach and a leader, have taught me the importance of sacrifice and teamwork for a greater good. I will work to make our city safer and more prosperous for ourselves and our children.

WARD 2 (TWO SEATS) Kyla Clark, 44, in Laurel nine years Grew up: Syracuse, New York Education: B.A. from Le Moyne College, MBA from American Intercontinental University Occupation: Stormwater

management communications specialist and marketing/human resources consultant (woman-owned business) Civic involvement: Vice chair, city Environmental Affairs Committee, member city Citizens Advisory Committee for Persons with Disabilities, Prince George’s County election judge, volunteer court-appointed advocate for neglected and abused children Special interests: Gardening, volunteering, family time Why running: The time is right for a female leader to be a part of the council, who has a unique perspective, experience and is not afraid to ask the tough questions.

Melvin E. Lindsley, 75, in Laurel 22 years Grew up: Tennessee Education: B.A. in criminal justice from American University, MDiv and MA in biblical studies from Capital Bible Seminary and Lancaster Bible College, PhD candidate at Capital Bible Seminary Occupation: U.S. Marine Corps (with one year combat in Vietnam), 20 years in law enforcement, small-business owner and consultant in waste-management industry Civic involvement: President of Ashford Homeowners Association, former vice president of Allentown Boys & Girls Club in southern Prince George’s County, JV/varsity football coach at High Point High School Special interests: Church, fishing, golfing, motorcycle riding, chess Why running: As a veteran, public servant and small-business owner, I have the experience in marketing, business and finance, public safety, public works and community service necessary to be an effective council member.

SEE VOTERS ON 13 

MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIFE OF A LAUREL CHILD!

VOTE NOVEMBER 7

koleforcouncil.com

WORKING TO MAKE LAUREL BETTER FOR

everyone!

Side by Side, a faith-based nonprofit organization, is recruiting volunteers to work with Laurel and Beltsville area elementary school students and families as meal servers and child care assistants at our Great Start workshop evenings. A complete background check through Prince George’s County Schools will be required prior to service. Service credits can be earned by high school students.

For more information or to apply, contact Side by Side at www.sidebysidelaurel.org.

Page 10

The Laurel Independent | October 2023

Smith draws people together with events

By Joe Murchison This is part of a series of profiles of candidates in Laurel’s mayoral race.

Brencis Smith, 34, councilmember (Ward 2) and president of the Laurel City Council and candidate for mayor, grew up steeped in church and government.

His parents, both Jamaican immigrants, held government posts in his hometown of Hartford, Conn. His mother worked in the state comptroller’s office; his father was the city’s assistant town clerk. Smith was frequently at city hall with his father, meeting politicians and observing public service in action.

His father also served as the minister of music for their 1,500-member Seventh Day Adventist congregation. Church “was where I spent my weekends growing up,” Smith said. “Friday was choir rehearsal, Saturday was church, Saturday evening was evening program and social, and Sunday was Pathfinders,” he added. (Pathfinders is a church program similar to Scouts.)

Smith was musically gifted. As a young teen, he helped form an a capella group and was its lead singer. “We sang all over Connecticut,” he said. He also played drums in high school so ably that he was recruited to accompany the University of Connecticut Gospel Choir.

After high school, Smith attended Oak-

wood College in Alabama for a year but decided to stay home the following fall because of his father’s failing health. He worked at accounting jobs through a temporary staffing agency. After three years, “my father passed in February 2012,” he said. “It rocked my world.”

The grieving Smith decided to seek a change of scene. He came to the Washington area, enrolling in an evening online program at Washington Adventist University and working full-time in accounting jobs. He moved to Laurel in 2015. “My friend bought a condo [in Laurel] and said, ‘Why don’t you move out here?’”

Smith liked the location. “I felt I could take a job anywhere living between two major cities,” he said.

In 2016, Smith added another job to his work and school commitments: directing the youth choir at his church in the District.

He graduated from college in 2017 with a major in organizational management.

Soon after, at the age of 28, he decided to run for the state delegate seat being vacated by Barbara Frush (District 21), who had held the seat for 24 years. Smith lost the election but in the process met Laurel Mayor Craig Moe and Laurel City Council-

member Keith Sydnor (Ward 2). Moe appointed Smith to the city’s homelessness task force, where he became co-vice chair.

Sydnor urged Smith to run for city council.

(Sydnor is one of Smith’s opponents in the mayoral race.)

In 2019, Smith secured his current job as a financial analyst for a D.C.-based engineering firm. That same year he won a city council seat;. he is now serving his second year as council president. He sees himself as a consensus-builder. “I haven’t voted no on anything since I was elected,” he said.

Smith sees his support of community events as a hallmark of his public service.

In 2021, he led an expansion of the city’s formerly indoor Juneteenth celebration.

He paid $2,400 out of his own pocket to rent a park and arranged for a DJ to play music, a food truck to sell Caribbean fare, black-owned businesses to set up vendor tables, a sorority to run games and a Black Jeep-owners group to display vehicles. “It was pretty much like a big picnic,” he said.

The celebration is now an annual event run by the city’s Juneteenth committee.

Also in 2021, Smith solicited partners for a back-to-school supply drive to benefit local kids, a turkey giveaway at Thanksgiving and a holiday toy drive for children in nearby hospitals.

Then came the granddaddy of his events, an outdoor Afro-Caribbean festival in August 2022, inspired by his Jamaican roots,

“Being the father of five, a coach, and a leader have taught me the importance of sacrifice and teamwork. I will work to improve our City for ourselves and our children.”

Resident-Friendly Policies

and the West Indian Day celebrations in his native Hartford. He teamed with a promoter, Carifesta, found sponsors and vendors, and helped raise $20,000 to cover expenses. Performers included Serani, a well-known Jamaican singer, and Ricardo Drue, an Antigua artist. “It was dancing, music and food,” Smith said. He estimated attendance at 5,000. Smith wants to make the festival an annual affair. And he has lots of other ideas: an interfaith gospel fest involving local churches, a jazz festival, an American music festival — “whether it be country, rock or R & B” — around July 4.

“Music is one language everyone can understand,” he said.

He thinks such events are not only fun, but allow residents and local police officers to get to know each other in a positive atmosphere. “I want to make this city the most uncomfortable place for criminals, and I think we do that by bringing the community together,” he said.

As for economic development, “I envision our Main Street as a little King Street of Alexandria or Main Street in Annapolis,” he said. Smith also said he wants to see shopping areas, including the Laurel Shopping Center, updated, and he’s keen on attracting more diverse restaurants to the city “Laurel has so much potential,” he said.

“Everything is blowing up [with development] around us, and I don’t want us to be left out.”

“My family, small business, church, & childhood are all in Laurel - I’m fully invested & committed to making it a great community!”

Flourishing Families

Small Business Champions

www.wallaceandsimmonsforlaurel.org Paid for by Friends of Stephen J. Wallace, John Norton, Treasurer & Supporters of Adrian G. Simmons, Michael Sciscenti, Treasurer

October 2023 | The Laurel Independent

Page 11

Since his teens, Mitchell always drawn to politics

By Joe Murchison This is part of a series of profiles of candidates in Laurel’s mayoral race.

From his mid-teens on, Martin Mitchell, 33, has been fascinated by politics.

His favorite class at Laurel High School was Advanced Placement government. He watched news on TV and raised political issues in casual conversations with his peers. He wrote poetry, mostly about political events such as the U.S. invasion of Iraq or, as he put it, “Bush going to war for oil.”

Mitchell’s fascination continued in college; he majored in political science, had legislative internships in Annapolis and the District, and held a leadership role in a Young Democrats organization. Now, in his working life, Mitchell is a political consultant.

So it’s no surprise that he ran successfully for Laurel City Council’s At Large seat in 2021 and now has his eye on being mayor.

Mitchell spent his early childhood on Long Island, N.Y., living with his mother and near his grandparents. His mother

worked in information technolog y.

His grandfather was an immigrant from Barbados who worked two jobs, one in school maintenance and a second as a porter for the New York subway. “He was always a hard worker,” Mitchell said. His grandmother was a school teacher.

Mitchell moved to Laurel with his mother and grandparents when he was in first grade.

Mitchell’s mother worked here as a systems analyst for a number of employers, including T. Rowe Price and the National Institutes of Health.

At Deerfield Run Elementary and Dwight D. Eisenhower Middle schools, Mitchell was sometimes a target of bullies because he was small. But he had the self confidence to go his own way.

In middle school, he wore a suit to school once a month to practice looking professional. “If it’s something everybody is doing, I try to do something else,” he said.

“I had tough skin, I tell you that.”

During his freshman year at

Laurel High, he got in a fight with a fellow student, and it changed his life. An administrator gave him two options: “’You either join the [wrestling] team or have a three-day suspension.’” Mitchell wrestled that year in the 80-lb. class and lost every match. “I was 0 and 15,” he said.

But he loved the sport, which accommodated competitors of all sizes and emphasized individual achievement. In the next three years, he lifted weights, entered dozens of off-season tournaments in nearby states and, by his senior year, had a 27-1 record and placed third in the state in the 125-lb. class.

Mitchell kept busy with other activities as well. He helped coach wrestling at the Laurel Boys and Girls Club. He joined the school debate team: “that was really fun, changing people’s opinions,” he said. He also worked at Applebee’s restaurant. The summer after graduating, he sold cutlery, sometimes wearing a suit as he rode his bicycle to appointments.

He went off to college at American International University in Massachusetts and then, the second year, to Roger Williams Uni-

versity in Rhode Island. But expenses prompted him to return home to attend the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) for his third year. Again, he kept busy, wrestling for the university, participating in the Model United Nations program, volunteering for a state legislative candidate’s campaign, helping coach wrestling at Laurel High, and working at UPS and as a roofer. “My day would be hectic,” he said. “Some days I would wake up super early, at 4 a.m., and go work [doing roofing] till 11 a.m.”

In his second year at UMBC, he hit his peak as a wrestler, placing third in a national tournament in the 149-lb. class. But he said financial constraints forced him to suspend his education in 2013 for two years to work full-time at jobs ranging from construction to retail.

In 2015, he returned to college, this time at Bowie State University. “There was a level of concern for you as an individual that I didn’t necessarily feel from the other institutions,” he said.

At Bowie State he helped revive the Maryland Student Leg-

islature program, through which students participated in mock legislative sessions. “I remember drafting legislation to legalize sex work,” he said (the bill did not pass). He also interned for two state delegates during winter General Assembly sessions. He joined the Prince George’s County Young Democrats, eventually becoming president. In 2016, he became the father of twin sons, in whom he takes great pride and co-parents with their mother.

After graduating in 2017, Mitchell did an unpaid internship for Congressman Steny Hoyer, filing constituent concerns on a spreadsheet. He said he learned “there are some crazy people, but you have to respond with kindness and love.” He then took a job with Prince George’s County lobbyist Tony Perez. Mitchell lobbied for the Prince George’s County Council, one of Perez’s clients, encouraging state legislators to support the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, an expansive plan to improve public education. He helped Kaiser Permanente, another of Perez’s clients, market its health-care insurance plan to SEE MITCHELL ON 13 

November 7 - Early Voting November 4

A VOTE FOR UONG IS A VOTE TO....

Reduce Property Tax Enhance Public Safety

uongformayor.com

Improve Citywide Infrastructure Promote Small, Local Businesses AUTHORITY: COMMITTEE TO ELECT SOPHADY UONG, TREASURER, NIYADA HIN

SCAN ME!

Page 12

The Laurel Independent | October 2023

Better care to help your community be its best.

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.

Learn more at umms.org/laurel.

A better state of care.

October 2023 | The Laurel Independent

VOTERS FROM PAGE 9

Thomas Matthews Jr., 62 Grew up: Laurel Education: High school graduate, U.S. Army Motor Transport School Occupation: Assistant funeral director Civic involvement: Chairman of Laurel’s Emancipation Day Celebration, NAACP member, Prince Hall Master Mason, Commander of American Legion Post 235 in Beltsville Why running: Becoming a council member will allow me to provide services to my community, make the required changes to address the current climate of our community needs, and build a long, effective relationship with the citizens of Laurel.

Jeffrey W. Mills, 51, in Laurel 13 years Grew up: Seat Pleasant Education: Attended Prince George’s, Anne Arundel and Howard community colleges Occupation: CEO of the CDL

MITCHELL FROM PAGE 11

county school employees.

In 2019, Mitchell began working for a political direct-mail company. “It gave me another aspect of campaigning,” he said. He soon left to become constituentservice director for former County Councilmember Todd Turner (District 4). He launched his own political consultancy in 2020, helping candidates in Washington, D.C. campaign for local office. He also has advocated for clients on Maryland legislation to legalize recreational marijuana and legalize medical aid in dying.

BookClub LLC (commercial driver’s licenses) and driving coach Civic involvement: Civic association group of Seat Pleasant, member of Nation of Islam Special interests: Race cars, fishing, skydiving, helping people grow Why running: Simply I’m for the people and the people are for Mills

AT-LARGE (ONE SEAT) Christine Johnson, 46, in Laurel 21 years Grew up: Lanham Education: B.A. in sociology, University of Maryland Occupation: Group administrator, Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory Civic involvement: Woman’s Club of Laurel, The Laurel Board of Trade, Friends of Laurel Library, coordinated city’s MLK Day of Service for six years Special interests: Volunteering, taking care of senior citizens, children’s literacy Why running: As an active resident and at my previous job at city hall working the front desk, I heard and became aware of some of the issues Laurel citizens had. While I could answer some questions and direct them to different departments, I’ve

As a city councilmember, Mitchell has led the charge for tenants’ rights, including seeking a cap on rent increases that the county passed this year and helping employees of the Laurel Department of Public Works unionize.

If elected mayor, Mitchell said he would consider hiring a manager to promote Main Street’s development, repair overlooked city streets, provide communications in Spanish as well as English, and continue to support tenants’ and workers’ rights.

“I think I’m happiest about different groups realizing they have power,” Mitchell said.

We Train Dogs Of All Ages Our training is positive, humane, and fun!

• In-Home Training & Behavior Consultation • Puppy Socialization • Group Classes • Serving Laurel & Surrounding Areas

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

Page 13

Candidates for city council will answer questions at a forum Oct. 18 from 6 to 9 p.m. in the council chambers of the Laurel Municipal Center, 8103 Sandy Spring Road. A forum for mayoral candidates will be held on Oct. 25 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the same location.

Attend in person or view them through Laurel TV — Verizon FiOS Channel 12 or Comcast Channel 996 or 71 — or livestreaming at laureltv.org/watch-live. always felt like I wanted to do more.

Enrico McLeary II, 37, in Laurel nine years Grew up: Loudoun County, Virginia Education: B.A. in political science, Coppin State University; JD, Penn State Dickinson School of Law Occupation: Private attorney —

criminal defense, personal injury, family law, estate planning Civic involvement: Laurel Boys and Girls Club board, counsel to Prince George’s County Parks and Recreation Foundation, volunteer speaker for Coppin State on real estate investing and estate planning Why running: Laurel is where I chose to build my home and raise my family. I have encountered some constituents in the city who don’t believe the existing administration is open to hearing from everyone, and I want to assure

that everyone is being heard and everyone is being treated fairly.

Adrian Simmons, 44, lifelong in Laurel Education: B.B.A. in accounting and MBA with concentration in finance, Loyola University of Maryland Occupation: Certified Public Accountant, owns Elements CPA LLC on Main Street Civic involvement: Raising three kids, Laurel Boys and Girls Club, Scouting (Eagle), Finance Advisory Council at St. Mary of the Mills Catholic Church, provides professional services to Laurel nonprofits at discount or pro bono Special interests: Cycling, letterpress printing, Orioles, coaching my kids’ teams Why running: To contribute to making Laurel a great place to live, work and play for residents and families. To preserve the uniqueness of who Laurel is, and to support its small-business community

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

Letter to the Board of Elections Supervisors & Board of Ethics Under Sec. 6-25 (d) No person may solicit or collect funds to be used in furtherance of the election to municipal office of any person who has not filed a certificate of candidacy and the notice of appointment of treasurer required by subsection (b) of this section.

In the Laurel Independent newspaper, columnist Joe Murchison writes that Keith Sidnor’s report showed 250 donations amounting to $26,778 of which he had spent $15,601. He received these donations between February 5th and July first. In February, candidate packets were not available to be able to solicit or collect funds.

THIS IS WHAT YOU CALL SHADOW CAMPAIGNING! The definition of shadow

campaigns (or dark money) refers to spending meant to influence political outcomes. If this were anyone else, they would be in violation, charged and made to pay fines unjustified.

This issue is out in the open, so It should be discussed out in the open for the public to know that this hasn’t been a fair and just election by the Board of Election Supervisors and Board of Ethics.

You reprimanded Candidate Martin Mitchell with fines in the amount of $2000 and myself. We paid your fines and moved forward, but this issue of shadow campaigning that you’re doing nothing about is what concern citizens are worried about.

ARTICLE VI - FAIR CAMPAIGN FINANCE ACT Contributions and expenditures of pass-through treasurer.

All contributions, money, or other valuable things, collected, received, our distributed by any candidate shall be paid over to and made to pass through the hands of the treasurer.

Candidate Keith Sidnor is in violation of the City Charter Codes and the Fair Campaign Finance Act due to the FACT that (1) all money that was collected before he was a candidate in February and (2) he is not his own treasurer and he didn’t have a treasurer because he wasn’t a candidate.

The City of Laurel only wish to have a truthful and fair 2023 election.

Thank you for your time and consideration Jeffrey W. Mills Ward 2 Candidate and Concerned Citizen

Page 14

The Laurel Independent | October 2023

Spooktacular October unveils thrilling Halloween season

By Emily Jacob As the leaves begin to fall and we start to feel a crisp chill in the air, Laurel is gearing up for a monthlong celebration of all things eerie and enchanting. October has arrived, and with it comes a bewitching array of Halloween events that promise to send shivers down your spine and ignite the spirit of the season. From pumpkin painting and trick-ortreating events, to family-friendly festivals and even princesses, Laurel has something for everyone this Halloween. Join us for all of the local spooktacular fun!

Round up the whole family for an evening of fun at Hope Baptist Church’s Fall Festival on Saturday, Oct. 21 from 3 to 5 p.m.

The festival includes games, hayrides, crafts, a cake walk and food, including cotton candy and popcorn. This event is free but requires registration ahead of time at hopeoflaurel.org/form/10800.

Hope Baptist Church, 8801 Stephens Road.

Dress in costume and bring the whole family to The Laurel

Board of Trade’s trick or treat on Main Street. Oct. 26 from 6 to 8 p.m.. Children 12 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult, and there are no pets allowed except service dogs. For more information, call 301.483.0838 Dress in costume, bring a bucket for candy and walk down a decked-out Halloween hall during the Take-Away Treat Spooktacular sponsored by the city and the Laurel Lions Club on Oct. 27 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Suitable for all ages and free, with no registration required. Robert J. DiPietro Community Center, 7901 Cypress St. cityoflaurel.org Have some Halloween fun at the Maryland City Library on Saturday, Oct. 28, from 2 to 3 p.m. Dress up in costume, listen to stories, sing songs, make crafts and join a parade through the library. The free event is for ages 10 and younger and does not require registration. Maryland City Library, 3501 Russett Common.

410.222.1070 Calling all princesses! Meet in Hammond Park on Sunday, Oct.

29 from 3 to 4:30 p.m. for the Not So Spooky Princesses in the Park Halloween Party. Dress up in your favorite princess dress or Halloween costume and come meet other princesses. Get your face painted, make crafts, enjoy sing-alongs and dancing, and use the photo booth. This event is appropriate for the whole family. $10 per person with registration, and $15 for walk-ups. Hammond Park, 10700 Glen Hannah Dr. allevents.in/ laurel/not-so-spooky-princessesin-the-park-halloween-party Looking for an alternative to (or a warm-up for) trick or treating? Attend the Trunk or Treat at Our Savior Lutheran Church from 5 to 7 p.m. on Oct. 31. As a safe alternative to traditional trick-or-treating, people decorate their vehicles’ trunks (which they also fill with treats!) to represent a story or a person from the Bible. Collect treats and learn more about the Bible as you tour the trunks. 13611 Laurel-Bowie Road. 301.776,7670 Laurel Department of Parks and Recreation will host a Harvest Moon Hayride on Nov. 3, from 6 to 9 p.m. Enjoy a hayride along the Patuxent River followed by drinks, snacks and entertainment around a bonfire. $4 in advance, $5 for walk-ups. Riverfront Park, Avondale Road. 301.725.7800

CALENDAR FROM PAGE 8

information and to register, call 301.497.5887

LAUREL BRANCH LIBRARY, CONT.

North Tract, 230 Bald Eagle Drive

Family Art Time. Spread autism awareness throughout the community in a creative and welcoming space for individuals with exceptional needs. Oct. 14, noon to 2 p.m.

Bike Riding at the Refuge. A 12mile guided ride. Bring your own bike, helmet, water bottle and snack. Oct. 21, 10 a.m.

The Global Consequences of Putin’s Invasion of Ukraine.

Bear Afkhami and library staff discuss factors contributing to Putin’s decision to invade Ukraine, the potential outcome for Russia and existing and future impacts on American and global security.

Oct.18, 6 to 7 p.m.

The Science of Sports. Experiments about hand-eye coordination, lung capacity, Bernoulli’s principle, aerodynamics, balancing miracles, the sweet spot on rackets, aerodynamics and more.

Nov. 7, 6 to 7 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

South Tract, 10901 Scarlet Tanager Loop Exhibit Hollingsworth Art Gallery. Nature and wildlife-themed quilts by members of the Southern Comforters Quilt Guild. Through October.

Urban Wildlife Conservation Day. Activities, crafts and demonstrations about local birds. Dedication of the new Wisdom trail and renovated Dr. Chandler S. Robbins Outdoor Education Center. Oct. 14. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Owl and Kestrel. Meet two of North America’s smallest birds of prey.Oct. 14, 11 to 11:30 a.m.

Family Fun: TREE-mendous Trees! Hands-on activities, games and crafts about how trees help wildlife and the environment. Oct. 20 and 21, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

GET YOUR CDL TRAINING WITH CDL BOOK CLUB Do you want more out of your career? Does the thought of hitting the open road and seeing the grandeurs of nature bring you excitement? If so, get the CDL training you need to begin an exciting career in the trucking industry.

When you need an affordable and fast CDL training school, you can count on CDL Book Club. We have helped many individuals get the proper training they need to begin their new career in the trucking industry. Our commercial driver’s license training is sure to help you get the job you’re looking for.

“I passed my road test on my first try.”

thecdlbookclub.com

301-776-2758

October 2023 | The Laurel Independent

SCIENCE FROM PAGE 4

Americans, but still much higher than the rates for white or Asian Americans. Data in the study was not broken down on a state or local level.

Authors of the Harvard/BU study noted that structural racism in the country has historically led to minority communities having fewer sidewalks, less public transportation and more liquor stores. Other studies have found that Black and Hispanic people are less likely to wear helmets while bicycling or buckle their seat belts while driving than white or Asian people.

Prince George’s County also has substantially more traffic than Montgomery County does. The Maryland Department of Transportation tallies vehicular miles of travel (VMTs) to quantify and understand road use patterns throughout the state.

In 2021, drivers logged 25% more VMTs on roads in Prince George’s County than they did in Montgomery County. More significantly, Prince George’s County also tops Montgomery County with 316% more VMTs on major urban arteries, which are inherently more dangerous than limited access highways like the Beltway or I-270. Drivers on Route 310 or Martin Luther King Highway often reach highway speeds, even as these roads have stop-light controlled intersections and pedestrians frequently walking on the shoulder.

The most notorious of these arteries is Indian Head Highway (Route 210). At 23 miles long, it represents only about 1% of the county’s approximately 2,000 miles of state-maintained roads.

According to the Route 210 Traffic Safety Committee, 13% (5 out of 36) of the county’s pedestrian fatalities and about 8% (10 out of 122) of the total traffic deaths occurred on this road in 2022.

National Safety Council data show that injuries and deaths related to speeding have been increasing nationwide since

Page 15

2019. One theory regarding this suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic cut commutes for many, resulting in fewer drivers on the roads, and those who were still driving did so at higher speeds.

Regardless of the pandemic’s impact, certain roads in Prince George’s County are notorious for speeding and street racing.

In 2008, eight pedestrians were killed while they were watching an illegal race on Route 210. In recent years, residents along St. Barnabas and Ritchie Marlboro roads have also reported an uptick in speeding vehicles.

As part of its participation in the Zero Deaths Maryland traffic safety program, the county reported that driver and passenger fatalities related to speeding doubled from 10 in 2019, to 20 in 2021. Because of improvements in seat belts and airbags, accidents at moderate speeds, 35 mph for instance, may leave drivers and passengers unharmed, but the risk goes up significantly in highspeed accidents. For pedestrians, being hit by cars moving at even modestly higher speeds can mean serious injury or death.

For almost a decade, sales of

SUVs and pickup trucks have outnumbered car sales across the country. In 2020, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reported that SUVs and pickup trucks are about three times more likely to injure or kill a pedestrian than a sedan traveling at the same speed. In 2023, IIHS reported that SUVs and pickups moving at any speed posed twice the risk of death for cyclists and caused 60% more serious head injuries than an accident involving a smaller vehicle.

“SUVs tend to knock riders down, where they can also be run over, rather than vaulting them onto the hood of the vehicle,” said IIHS statistician Sam Monfort. “That’s probably because the higher front end of an SUV strikes the cyclist above their center of gravity.”

Paul Ruffins is a citizen scientist and professor of curiosity.

Explore the Trails and Towns of Prince George’s County!

www.anacostiatrails.org

LONG ROWS BRIGHTEN SHORT DAYS The sun angling lower makes the river sparkle • Look for Winter indoor programs • For new and experienced rowers • Our Holiday Challenge starts on Thanksgiving Day • Rowing is the best exercise out there

BEGINNERS WELCOME!

FUN, FRIENDS, AND FITNESS! All activities are at

Bladensburg Waterfront Park 4601 Annapolis Road, Bladensburg WashingtonRowingSchool.com

202-344-0886

Depression? Anxiety? Stress?

We can help you manage your mental health!

Services we offer: Psychotherapy Wellness Counseling Stress Management

Lifestyle for Better Living Jinelle Williams, MSW, LCSW-C

Mental Health Therapist & Wellness Coach

301-701-0294

www.lifestyleforbetterliving.com

We accept Medicaid, Cigna, ESI EAP, HSA

Page 16

The Laurel Independent | October 2023

THANK YOU MAYOR MOE! We appreciate your years of service to Laurel!

FRED FREDERICK SERVING LAUREL FOR 63 YEARS

Here at Fred Frederick Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Laurel, it is our mission to be the automotive home of drivers in the DMV area. We provide a vast selection of new and used vehicles, exceptional car care, and customer service with a smile! Our dealership has a great selection of new and pre-owned cars, trucks, and SUVs. With competitive prices on every vehicle, you won’t find a reason to visit any other dealership.

Visit Us WWW.FREDFREDERICK.COM Today! 39 Washington Blvd | Laurel, MD | 301-776-7373