12-2023 Hyattsville Life & Times

INSIDE RESPONSE TO TRAGEDY: Parent groups pen letter asking for safe school routes, P. 2

VOL. 20 NO. 12

HYATTSVILLE’S AWARD-WINNING COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

DECEMBER 2023

KNIT TOGETHER: Three Little Birds “sewcial” events unite community, P. 5

Zoning, traffic, education take center stage at public hearing

By TREVOR SKEEN A developer challenged an activist regarding infrastructure. A resident corrected a lawyer about rezoning. These and other disagreements took place at the Prince George’s County House Delegation annual public bill hearing on Dec. 4.

The meeting also included

about 20 members of the Maryland House of Delegates and two state senators, who, led by Del. Nicole Williams (District 22), reviewed a variety of legislation for the upcoming year.

Around 20 bills were covered during the three-hour meeting, including ones that addressed planning and zoning matters, traffic control systems and the county school district.

COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT ACT Prince George’s and Montgomery County (PG/MC) 107-24 is titled Community Benefits Agreements, but it is often referred to as the Community Empowerment Act. (For this and other bi-county bills, it is worth noting that members of both county delegations must agree before moving the legislation to

Northwestern boys soccer team is a state power

SEE SOCCER ON 10 

it is deciding zoning and landuse matters.

In addition, the proposed legislation outlines that in a dispute over a community benefits agreement, the Prince George’s County People’s Zoning Counsel, who attends all hearings on zoning matters to protect the interests of county residents, will represent members of the SEE DELEGATION ON 11 

Season ’TIS THE

By CHRIS MCMANES The Northwestern High School boys soccer team’s season didn’t end as well as it did two years ago, but make no mistake: The Wildcats are a state power.

“Before this, everyone talked about Bowie,” Northwestern coach Victor Ramirez said. “With all due respect to Bowie, they have a good program, but I think we are as strong as any other program in Prince George’s County and the state of Maryland. We’ll be back next year.”

The Wildcats fell just short of winning their second 4A state championship in three years by falling to Leonardtown on penalty kicks, 4-2. Northwestern rallied late to tie the game at 2 and send it into overtime.

“Penalty kicks are a lottery — you never know,” Ramirez said. “We had our chances

a standing committee.)

According to the bill, “The district council may require that a developer negotiate and enter into a written community benefits agreement if at least 25% of the residents, landowners or businesses in the impact area [defined as those within a 2-mile radius] oppose the development.” The county council sits as the district council when

The City of Hyattsville held a winter wonderland event at Driskell Park on Dec. 1, 2023, which included the lighting of the city’s holiday trees, musical performances, craft tables and free gift-wrapping. JULIETTE FRADIN PHOTOGRAPHY

CENTER SECTION: Check out the latest issue of The Hyattsville Reporter, in both English and Español!

THE CITY OF HYATTSVILLE

The Hyattsville Reporter Issue 429| December 2023

A Letter from Hyattsville’s City Administrator Tracey Douglas Season’s greetings, Hyattsville!

As we approach the end of the year, I’d like to share a few holiday reminders and general updates:

Mensaje de la Admin de la Ciudad de Hyattsville Tracey Douglas

nos acercamos al final ¡Felices fiestas, Hyattsville! A medida que recordatorios para las del año, me gustaría compartir algunos fiestas y actualizaciones generales:

enorgullece de albergar Compra en Hyattsville: Hyattsville se que ofrecen una cientos de negocios locales e independientes Shop Hyattsville: Hyattsville is únicas. Apoyar a los amplia variedad de regalos y experiencias proud to be home to hundreds vecinos sino que también negocios locales no sólo da empleo a sus of small and independently Ciudad. Ya sea que esté contribuye a la economía general de la owned businesses that offer a para encontrar el regalo buscando una buena comida o comprando wide variety of unique gifts and único. destino un como Hyattsville perfecto, considere experiences. Supporting local businesses not only employs your en la búsqueda de tesoros Este año, animamos a todos a participar overall economy. neighbors but also contributes to the City’s y Gana en Grande! Recolecte estampillas dining experience or ¡Compre Pequeño y Whether you’re looking for a pleasurable de tesoros en los negocios participantes Hyattsville as one- en nuestra tarjeta elegible para un sorteo de shopping to find the perfect gift, consider devuélvala antes del 1 de enero para ser hyattsville.org/lovelocal. stop destination. premios. Obtenga más información en Hyattsville, también hemos Para que sea más fácil viajar dentro de in the lotes de la Ciudad This year, we encourage everyone to participate puesto estacionamiento gratuito en nuestros stamps on our Shop Small, Win Big Scavenger Hunt! Collect businesses and return hasta el 1 de enero.

Scavenger Hunt Card at participating prize drawing. Learn el personal de the card by January 1 to be eligible for a Temporada de Presupuesto: En diciembre, it easier to travel Concejales para establecer more at hyattsville.org/lovelocal. To make Hyattsville comienza a trabajar con los parking available in describe los ingresos y within Hyattsville, we’ve also made free el presupuesto anual de la Ciudad, que de julio al 30 de junio. our City lots until January 1. gastos previstos para el año fiscal del 1 al presupuesto proponiendo sus staff begins to work Los Concejales contribuyen Budget Season: In December, Hyattsville en enero /Febrero de cada año. Ahora presupuestarias prioridades City’s annual budget, con sus Concejales y with Councilmembers to establish the es un buen momento para comunicarse expenditures for programación, proyectos which outlines anticipated revenues and compartir sus ideas y comentarios sobre Councilmembers año the fiscal year from July 1 – June 30. City gustaría que se apoyaran en el próximo budget priorities e iniciativas que le del Concejo en contribute to the budget by proposing their fiscal. Encuentre la información de contacto a great time to reach a las formas en que in January/February of each year.Now hyattsville.org/council y permanezca atento thoughts and out to your Councilmembers to share your en línea y en persona. initiatives you’d like puede brindar comentarios feedback on programming, projects, and Council’s Find year. to see supported in the upcoming fiscal Mientras esperamos las celebraciones il and stay tuned Días Festivos y Seguridad: contact information at hyattsville.org/counc y amigos, un recordatorio de que familiares con navideñas through in-person todos. Muchos for ways you can provide input online and esta época del año no siempre es feliz para pueden tener dificultades meetings. experimentan dolor, pérdida, soledad o a todos a ser económicas durante este tiempo. Animo to the holiday y a extender la Holidays and Safety: As we look forward observadores de sus vecinos, amigos y familiares, gentle reminder that oído o celebrations with family and friends, a que tal vez sólo necesiten una mano, un all. Many experience mano a aquellos this time of year is not always joyous for abierto. during this simplemente un corazón grief, loss, loneliness, or may struggle financially neighbors, your of un aumento en la time. I encourage everyone to be observant Finalmente, muchas comunidades ven who may just need a ofrecemos friends, and family, and reach out those durante la temporada navideña. Por eso delincuencia la vigilancia y hand, ear, or just an open heart. algunos recordatorios. Recuerde mantener compre Cuando casa. de fuera esté cuando mantenerse alerta in crime during the bien iluminadas, Finally, many communities see a spike después del anochecer, estacione en áreas Remember del automóvil y holiday season. So we offer a few reminders. asegúrese de cerrar las puertas y ventanas you are out and personales to maintain vigilance and stay alert when mantenga el dinero en efectivo y sus pertenencias fter dark, park in well lit areas, be

HYATTSVILLE MD PERMIT NO. 1383

Hyattsville Life & Times PO Box 132 Hyattsville, MD 20781

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Hyattsville Life & Times | December 2023

Page 2

FROM WHERE I STAND

Our kids can’t wait for safe routes to school

A

s parent leaders within PGCPS [Prince George’s County Public Schools], we all mourn the tragedy that occurred on Nov. 20, 2023, at Riverdale Elementary School. We are heartbroken for the two students whose lives were lost, their families and the entire Riverdale community.

This tragedy was preventable and should never have happened. Parent leaders have spent years warning county officials about the dangers of unfilled crossing guard positions and a lack of pedestrian safety around our schools. We are tired of excuses, and this tragedy in Riverdale Park proves our kids can’t wait.

Doing everything possible to protect the safety of our students, teachers and staff is not a choice. It is the core responsibility of every leader in Prince George’s County. This failure of leadership must never happen again.

We call on the Prince George’s Police Department (PGPD) to take immediate action and fill all vacant crossing guard positions by Jan. 1, 2024, or sooner.

If more funding is required in order to offer the increased competitive pay and benefits needed to successfully fill these positions, we urge county officials to provide it.

If the PGPD cannot do this, we call on them to immediately coordinate with local governments and PGCPS to provide unspent funds so municipalities and PGCPS can recruit,

A community newspaper chronicling the life and times of Hyattsville Mailing address: PO Box 132, Hyattsville, MD 20781

http://facebook.com/ HyattsvilleLife http://twitter.com/HvilleTimes Hyattsville Life & Times is published monthly

by Streetcar Suburbs Publishing Inc., 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.

Doing everything possible to protect the safety of our students, teachers and staff is not a choice.

It is the core responsibility of every leader in Prince George’s County.

Signed,

hire and pay their own crossing guards on an emergency basis. Every school community is unique, and specific needs may vary, but this crisis is universal: These positions must be filled now. This would allow the county and PGCPS to assign crossing guards to schools in unincorporated areas, while allowing local municipalities to fill guard positions with residents from, and most invested in, their own communities.

Provide grants to local governments, draft MOUs [memorandums of understanding], work

-Mount Rainier Elementary School PTO executive board -Thomas S. Stone Elementary School PTO executive board -Hyattsville Elementary School PTA executive board -University Park Elementary School PTA board -César Chávez Dual Spanish Immersion School PTO executive board -Hyattsville Middle School PTSO The views expressed in this column belong to its authors. The Life & Times reserves the right to edit “From Where I Stand” submissions for brevity and clarity.

Managing Editor Griffin Limerick

griffin@streetcarsuburbs.news

Business Manager Catie Currie catie@hyattsvillelife.com

Associate Editor Heather Wright

Advertising Sales Manager Miranda Goodson

heather@hyattsvillelife.com

Layout & Design Editors Ashley Perks, Valerie Morris Streetcar Suburbs Webmaster Jessica Burshtynskyy jessica@hyattsvillelife.com

Columnists

Imke Ahlf-Wien, Jessica Arends, Rick Borchelt, Victoria Boucher, Juliette Fradin, Paul Ruffins, Heather Marléne Zadig

Writers & Contributors Shaun Chornobroff, Adelia McGuire, Chris McManes, Trevor Skeen

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out some other arrangement — but get the job done.

Finally, we call on local, county and state leaders to explore and urgently act upon any additional ways to ensure safer routes to and from school. From infrastructure investments like crosswalks and traffic calming to increased funding for traffic enforcement around our schools to allowing municipalities the flexibility to implement deterrents like stop-sign cameras, all options must be on the table to protect our children and keep our school zones safe.

No more excuses. No turf wars or passing blame between various departments or levels of government.

Every child has the right to get to and from school safely — and our kids can’t wait.

Advertising advertising@hyattsvillelife.com 301.531.5234

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, Kit Slack Circulation: Copies are distributed monthly

by U.S. mail to every address in Hyattsville.

Additional copies are distributed to libraries, selected businesses, community centers and churches in the city. Total circulation is 9,300.

HL&T is a member of the National Newspaper Association and the Institute for Nonprofit News.

A memorial service and candlelight vigil took place on Nov. 25 at Riverdale Elementary School to commemorate two young students who were killed at an intersection near the school on Nov. 20. COURTESY OF ANNE WILLIAMS

NEWS BRIEFS

VISIT STREETCARSUBURBS.NEWS FOR MORE CITY COUNCILMEMBER WINS INAUGURAL STATE-LEVEL AWARD On Nov. 11, City Councilmember Emily Strab (Ward 2) won the firstever Maryland Catholic Woman of the Year award, presented by the Maryland Catholic Women’s Conference (MCWC). This year’s conference was held in Severna Park and drew over 600 participants, according to the conference website. According to an MCWC press release, “Emily Strab’s selection as the 2023 Maryland Catholic Woman of the Year exemplifies the values of faith, hope, and love in action.”

Strab was elected to the city council in 2022, and her current term expires in 2025. She is the office and enrollment administrator for St. Jerome Institute, in D.C., where she is also a music educator. Strab is a former board member of the Life & Times and of the board that initiated the Montessori program at St. Jerome Academy.

COUNTY’S 10-CENT BAG FEE TO START JAN. 1 The new year will ring in a new shopping bag fee.

On Jan. 1, 2024, many county retailers, including grocery stores, pharmacies, convenience stores and many other businesses, will stop providing single-use, carryout plastic bags at check-out registers.

Additionally, retailers will be required to charge at least a 10-cent fee for each paper bag and reusable bags sold to consumers, as part of the Prince George’s County Better Bag Bill, which County Executive Angela Alsobrooks signed into law on July 14, 2023.

The bag fee will remain with the business, rather than going to the county as it would if it were a tax, according to a fiscal policy note on the bill.

“The ban has been created to help protect local waterways and marine life, reduce plastic pollution and litter, and promote reusable bags,” a county press release said.

According to the press release, the ban doesn’t apply to the packaging of bulk items, such as produce, nuts and grains, and small hardware, nor to bags for bakery goods, fish, meat, flowers or dry cleaning.

The 10-cent fee does not apply to paper bags for take-out food, including food purchased at a drive-through, nor to bags used for prescription medication. For a complete list of exemptions, visit mypgc. us/bagitright.

The press release noted that the county will provide a limited amount of free reusable bags and will announce distribution dates and locations once plans are finalized.

The Hyattsville City Council considered a similar bag bill proposal last December, which the county bill renders unnecessary.

10¢

Hyattsville Life & Times | December 2023

Page 3

WHAT THE HYATTSVILLE?

Where have all the shade trees gone?

By HEATHER MARLÉNE ZADIG

F

all foliage in Hyattsville may have seemed a little less spectacular this fall than in previous years, though not because the colors were less vibrant: There are simply fewer trees. Unusually powerful storms in recent years have toppled countless shade trees throughout the city and across the region, mirroring national U.S. Forest Service data that reveal higher rates of tree loss than average in recent years.

With time and care, trees are ultimately replaceable, though the increase in bare, front-yard stumps around town suggests we aren’t actually replacing them.

According to recent shade tree advisory board minutes, residents become wary of their own larger trees when severe storms fell branches or trees nearby, which can lead to illegal tree removals (subject to up to $1,000 fines). Presumably, the same fear may also then deter residents from replanting large species.

On my own Hyattsville block, a summer storm felled part of

a shade tree in the front yard of neighbor Joan Stump two doors down — narrowly missing our shared neighbor’s home. Stump emphasized that her family loves the shade of all the trees on their property, but the upkeep costs can be quite high. “In the 13 years we’ve lived here, we’ve had them maintained three times for a cost of over $7,000,” she said, adding that the price may be out of reach for many residents.

That tree remains largely intact, thankfully, but for anyone concerned about future damage to structures, smaller native species like dogwood, serviceberry, paw paw and white fringe trees are excellent options for planting closer to buildings, while larger species can be relegated to the perimeter of a property.

Unfortunately, low rates of tree replacement across the city can impact far more than fall colors.

As the saying goes, “Trees are the lungs of the earth” — removing air pollutants by intercepting particulates and absorbing gasses. Given our county’s consistent F air quality rating, we could use all the filtration we can get.

Trees are also the primary tool for reducing the “heat island effect” in cities, which occurs when large amounts of concrete, roads and buildings absorb, retain and emit significantly more heat than high-vegetation areas — like rural or natural lands — do.

“If you wanted to invent the most effective kind of climate management technology from the ground up, you could spend a lot of time trying to do that.

You would just engineer a tree,” Brian Stone Jr., director of Georgia Institute of Technology’s Urban Climate Lab, told The New York Times this past September.

According to the Arbor Day Foundation, trees can cool cities by up to 10 F — a huge margin — as well as reduce crime and increase property values.

Shade tree canopies are also an environmental justice issue, with disparities in neighborhood greenery contributing to inequities in several measures of human health. According to the reputable American Forests Foundation, communities of color have 33% less tree canopy on average than majority-white

Top-ranked in the DC metro area

communities in the U.S. — a trend reflected by tree distribution across our city and county.

As the Life & Times reported last year, by 2018, Hyattsville had already lost more than 236 acres of trees over the previous decade — 30% of its canopy — due to land development, pests and disease, and attrition.

To help combat this profound shortage, the city continues to offer free tree plantings to residents, using leftover funds from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Free trees (to be planted during the spring) are available through the city’s website, according to Public Information Officer Cindy Zork, and residents can also apply for free street trees.

Interestingly, not all trees are equal at removing pollution — and some even contribute to it (hence the Great Smoky Mountains’ smog). All trees release oxygen and absorb and filter pollution, but trees also emit varying levels of volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, that are the precursors to smog — some a little, and some a lot.

Research reported in Scientific

American says that birch, elm, tulip and linden trees are lowVOC. Conifers are an especially good choice to reduce VOCs if they’re native and suit site conditions, according to 2015 research reported by BBC’s Future Planet.

Hemlocks, junipers, cypresses and pines are also low-VOC and filter year-round, while high-VOC trees like black gum, oaks, poplar and willow are best avoided.

The city does prioritize native trees for wildlife needs and hardiness reasons but does not currently consider trees’ VOC emissions, according to Zork.

Although the compact yards of our semi-urban neighborhoods can only support so many trees, there’s room for hope: If every household in Hyattsville planted just one tree, it would contribute roughly 6,800 trees to the canopy.

And that’s nothing to wheeze at.

Heather Marléne Zadig is a writer and Californian whose family was weary of wildfire and returned to Hyattsville for its small-town vibe and great big heart.

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Hyattsville Life & Times | December 2023

Page 4

Anacostia River improving in quality

By SHAUN CHORNOBROFF Even though the water quality of the Anacostia River received a failing grade and a lower score than last year’s, long-term trends suggest the water is steadily improving, according to the annual State of the River Report Card from the Anacostia Watershed Society (AWS).

The 2023 report card gave the river a 52% grade — a 3-point drop from 2022. It’s the third time in six years the river has received a failing grade.

“The water quality tends to improve or deteriorate yearto-year based on a variety of factors,” said Christopher Williams, the president and CEO of the AWS. “Even though we’ve had a failing grade in 2023, the overall trend is positive.”

Among the factors that cause yearly fluctuations are submerged aquatic vegetation and E. coli. Changes among the count in these categories can be caused by a number of unpredictable environmental occurrences, from precipitation to increased dog fur finding its way into the lake, according to Wil-

liams.

“We don’t know what the factors are that can change these things from year to year; we just know from observation that they do,” Williams said.

For the evaluation, the 9-mile river is divided into three sections: the Maryland Anacostia — the northernmost section — the Upper D.C. Anacostia and the Lower D.C. Anacostia — the southernmost section of the river. Each section received a failing grade in the 2023 report.

The report evaluates a number of components, including dissolved oxygen, water clarity and toxins.

Trash was among the categories with a measured improvement in the annual report.

Williams attributed this to the recent completion of a new sewage overflow system, which was part of DC Water’s Clean Rivers Project.

The project started in 2018 and came about due to a lawsuit filed in 2000 by a number of local environmental groups, including the AWS. A September DCist article suggested that the sewage system would cut over-

flows by 98%.

“One of the side benefits of those tunnels is they catch a lot of trash, as well as keeping the sewage from overflowing into the river,” Williams said.

A Sept. 23 train derailment near Baltimore Avenue resulted in the scattering of plastic pellets, or nurdles, in the nearby area.

Williams said, on Dec. 5, that, despite the derailment happening about a third of a mile from the river’s tributaries, there had been no reported observations of the pellets seeping into the Anacostia.

“We were keeping our eye out after the derailment happened because we were worried about that,” said Williams. “But it doesn’t seem like much got into the river.”

Despite the river’s failing grade, the AWS is still making progress towards its goal of ensuring the Anacostia is fully swimmable and fishable in the future, according to Williams.

However, the presence of industrial chemicals and heavy metals, which are harmful to fish, means the river won’t be fishable for a

longer period of time and would require an extensive cleanup project, Williams said. He defines a fishable body of water as one in which people can catch fish and eat them without concerns for their safety.

“There’s a process going on right now, that — if successful — will result over the next five years or so of much of those pollutants being cleaned up, which will be a giant step towards making the river fishable,” Williams said.

Williams expects there to be parts of the river where swimming will be possible on a fairly regular basis within the next few years.

Anacostia Riverkeeper, another organization with a goal of restoring the Anacostia River, was set to hold the Anacostia River Splash on Sept. 23. However, due to heavy rain and strong gusts of wind potentially making the water unsafe, the event was postponed. Swimming in the river was first banned in 1971 because of water quality issues.

The splash was set to be the first permitted swim in the Anacostia in more than five

decades. The D.C. Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) decided in 2018 that the river’s water quality had improved enough to amend the ban and allow limited swimming events. The change came as a result of expected improvements to the water quality due to the clean rivers projects, according to the 2018 ruling.

To hold a swimming event, organizations have to receive special permission from the DOEE, as well as from the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department and the National Parks Service.

Maureen Mitchel, the Anacostia Riverkeeper watershed program manager, said that due to dropping temperatures, the river splash will be postponed to spring 2024. She insisted the event will take place, however.

The announcement postponing the September event on the Riverkeepers’ website concludes by saying, “It may not happen this time, but Splash will happen! Stay tuned for when!”

Shaun Chornobroff is a graduate journalism student at the University of Maryland.

Hyattsville Life & Times | December 2023

Page 5

Bringing the community together one stitch at a time

By ADELIA MCGUIRE Three Little Birds Sewing Co. owner Katie Blattner is bringing together the Hyattsville community one stitch at a time.

On Wednesdays, the business holds its Makers Night & Sewcial, a weekly in-person event open to the community. Residents from Hyattsville and beyond gather in Blattner’s business on Baltimore Avenue for an evening of socializing and crafting.

From 6:30 to 9 p.m., community members are invited to work on their latest sewing and knitting projects in the company of other creators. Attendees knit sweaters and scarves, sew quilts and bags, embroider napkins and wall hangings, and much more.

“We try to do things where we welcome people in and make a safe space for them to create and relax,” Blattner said.

Nightly attendance ranges from 10 to 40 crafters, according to Blattner, and the shop provides refreshments. For a $5 fee, attendees have access to sewing machines and a tranquil, supportive atmosphere.

The weekly event is open to all skill levels and pulls in a variety of crafters. Though the fiber art community at Makers Night primarily comprises sewers and knitters, crocheters and spinners make their presence known, as well.

Some spinners transport their own portable spinning wheels

An instructor advises an event attendee on her Tunisian crochet project.

COURTESY OF SHARON HENDERSON

to Makers Night, where they spin a bag of raw wool into yarn. This yarn might then be knit into mittens or a scarf.

Four to five spinners regularly attend Makers Night, according to Blattner, and share projects amongst each other.

Crotchet, specifically Tunisian crochet, has been a focus at recent Makers Nights, Blattner said. This unique type of crochet originated in the 19th century and has made a

comeback in recent years. Tunisian crochet is a style of needlework similar to crocheting and knitting that produces a waffle-like fabric and trim border.

Three Little Birds has dedicated every third Sunday to an event called Tunisian Tea. Attendees are taught how to execute this crochet/knitting hybrid stitch while enjoying refreshments.

Many of the Sunday Tunisian Tea crafters return to the store on Wednesday nights to con-

tinue their projects.

Former Three Little Birds’ employee Sharon Henderson and her daughter co-own Sweet Pea Fiber, a small yarn shop housed within Blattner’s storefront.

Henderson describes herself as a longtime knitter and a lover of almost everything having to do with fiber. During her time in New Mexico, Henderson and her daughter attended a church where they were involved in a prayer shawl knitting group.

According to Henderson, sewing and knitting were restorative for them both.

Henderson noted that sharing this healing art was her primary impetus for opening Sweet Pea Fiber. “When we talked about opening the yarn shop, it wasn’t about selling yarn.” she said. “It was about creating community.”

Henderson said she regularly attends and helps host Makers Night. Although Makers Night is not a class, instructors like Henderson are often available to answer crafters’ questions.

“There’s people that sit around the table that crochet, they knit, they do hand sewing, they do embroidery. We have people bring in quilts that they’re quilting by hand,” Henderson said. “People come in and don’t do any of those things — they sit and draw, or they sit and read or they just sit and take in community.”

Events held by Three Little Birds, like Makers Night and Tunisian Tea, have been effective in uniting community members who share similar interests, according to Blattner. She explained that, because D.C. is a

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“It’s really important to me, and it makes me feel really good when I see people that are making those connections,” Blattner said. “We’ve had people that have taken classes together and then become friends outside of our classes.”

Several Makers Night participants have lost spouses over the past few years, according to Henderson. Even when they aren’t personally close to one another, other attendees have joined together to support them, co-creating a card or other gift for the grieving partner.

“These are people that maybe have met but haven’t really grown close. It’s just the fact that somebody in the group is hurting — everybody rallies,” Henderson noted.

Three Little Birds’ events are attended by those of a wide range of ages and backgrounds.

Henderson explained that, for many, the storefront is something of a safe place or an escape for event attendees.

“I think in general, people feel like they can come to any of our events and be safe from whatever stress has gone on in their life,” Henderson explained.

“They can come in whatever condition they’re in and just kind of get lost into the world of fiber.”

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Hyattsville Life & Times | December 2023

Page 6

HPD, mall partner to thwart holiday thievery

By HEATHER WRIGHT During this season of giving — when there are more shoppers out and about, more transactions, more money changing hands — the opportunities to steal from unsuspecting patrons multiply. And busy shopping areas like malls become especially attractive places for thievery and skulduggery.

In mid-November, Hyattsville Police Chief Jarod Towers and Henry Watford, general manager of the Mall at Prince George’s, walked through the mall and discussed how they could work together during the holidays to ensure a safer shopping season, according to an interview with Towers.

Across the country, the holiday season often correlates with an uptick in crime, especially theft. According to a Hyattsville Police Department (HPD) email, overall crime increased from quarter 3 to quarter 4 during each of the last three years: a 15% increase in 2020, 17% in 2021 and 19.5% in 2022. The same upward trend held true for reported thefts, specifically, from the third to fourth quarter of each year (17% increase in 2020; 18% in 2021; 13% in 2022).

Theft includes shoplifting, pickpocketing and car break-ins; it differs from robbery, which involves taking property by threat of force or by force itself.

Looking closer, at a monthby-month comparison in 2022,

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the HPD reported 45 thefts within the City of Hyattsville in October, 46 in November and then 62 in December. Of these reported thefts, Ward 3 racked up 20 in October, 20 in November and 29 in December, respectively. The ward includes the Mall at Prince George’s, the Hyattsville Crossing Metro station and Northwestern High School.

Towers told the Life & Times that the holiday season sees far more shopping, which means more financial transactions, more cash on hand and typically more purchases left in cars. Winter also brings other complicating factors, he said, including more hours of darkness and people wearing heavier clothing, which distracts potential victims and gives offenders greater ability to conceal stolen goods.

Towers noted that the city and the Mall at Prince George’s maintain open lines of communication throughout the year, but he said he wasn’t aware of explicit conversations in previous years between the HPD and mall staff to preemptively assess strategies for the holiday season.

Towers said that there would be increased direct communications between the HPD and mall management

STAY SAFE THIS SEASON with these safety tips from Hyattsville Police Chief Jarod Towers: • Shop during daylight hours, when possible.

• Park in well-lit and secure areas, especially at night. Park in lit areas close to where you’ll be shopping and avoid parking on the outskirts of lots or garages.

• Be aware of your surroundings.

When you’re at an ATM, be aware of others around you and make sure there’s no pirating device attached to the ATM that could pick up your card number or PIN. • Carry only what you need, and don’t handle or display large amounts of cash.

• Keep valuable items like wallets and phones on your person, especially in your front pockets, rather than in bags or purses.

• Shop in pairs or groups, especially if you’re using the Metro system.

• If you see anything out of the ordinary, don’t hesitate to call store security or the police.

this year, including daily or weekly briefings, which would include updates on police department or mall security staffing shortages.

Towers also noted that the police department would proactively patrol in and around the mall. He said directed patrols, in which officers focus on specific areas, are often a response to current problem areas rather

than a means to proactively circumvent crime based on previous seasonal trends.

“The community will see an increased presence of the HPD at the mall,” Towers noted.

“There may also be some plain clothes officers in and around the mall, as well.”

A mall spokesperson told the Life & Times that the mall had no comment at this time.

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THE CITY OF HYATTSVILLE

The Hyattsville Reporter Issue 429| December 2023

A Letter from Hyattsville’s City Administrator Tracey Douglas Season’s greetings, Hyattsville!

As we approach the end of the year, I’d like to share a few holiday reminders and general updates: Shop Hyattsville: Hyattsville is proud to be home to hundreds of small and independently owned businesses that offer a wide variety of unique gifts and experiences. Supporting local businesses not only employs your neighbors but also contributes to the City’s overall economy.

Whether you’re looking for a pleasurable dining experience or shopping to find the perfect gift, consider Hyattsville as onestop destination.

This year, we encourage everyone to participate in the Shop Small, Win Big Scavenger Hunt! Collect stamps on our Scavenger Hunt Card at participating businesses and return the card by January 1 to be eligible for a prize drawing. Learn more at hyattsville.org/lovelocal. To make it easier to travel within Hyattsville, we’ve also made free parking available in our City lots until January 1.

Mensaje de la Admin de la Ciudad de Hyattsville Tracey Douglas ¡Felices fiestas, Hyattsville! A medida que nos acercamos al final del año, me gustaría compartir algunos recordatorios para las fiestas y actualizaciones generales: Compra en Hyattsville: Hyattsville se enorgullece de albergar cientos de negocios locales e independientes que ofrecen una amplia variedad de regalos y experiencias únicas. Apoyar a los negocios locales no sólo da empleo a sus vecinos sino que también contribuye a la economía general de la Ciudad. Ya sea que esté buscando una buena comida o comprando para encontrar el regalo perfecto, considere Hyattsville como un destino único.

Este año, animamos a todos a participar en la búsqueda de tesoros ¡Compre Pequeño y Gana en Grande! Recolecte estampillas en nuestra tarjeta de tesoros en los negocios participantes y devuélvala antes del 1 de enero para ser elegible para un sorteo de premios. Obtenga más información en hyattsville.org/lovelocal.

Para que sea más fácil viajar dentro de Hyattsville, también hemos puesto estacionamiento gratuito en nuestros lotes de la Ciudad hasta el 1 de enero.

Temporada de Presupuesto: En diciembre, el personal de Hyattsville comienza a trabajar con los Concejales para establecer el presupuesto anual de la Ciudad, que describe los ingresos y gastos previstos para el año fiscal del 1 de julio al 30 de junio.

Budget Season: In December, Hyattsville staff begins to work Los Concejales contribuyen al presupuesto proponiendo sus with Councilmembers to establish the City’s annual budget, prioridades presupuestarias en enero /Febrero de cada año. Ahora which outlines anticipated revenues and expenditures for es un buen momento para comunicarse con sus Concejales y the fiscal year from July 1 – June 30. City Councilmembers compartir sus ideas y comentarios sobre programación, proyectos contribute to the budget by proposing their budget priorities e iniciativas que le gustaría que se apoyaran en el próximo año in January/February of each year.Now a great time to reach fiscal. Encuentre la información de contacto del Concejo en out to your Councilmembers to share your thoughts and hyattsville.org/council y permanezca atento a las formas en que feedback on programming, projects, and initiatives you’d like puede brindar comentarios en línea y en persona. to see supported in the upcoming fiscal year. Find Council’s contact information at hyattsville.org/council and stay tuned Días Festivos y Seguridad: Mientras esperamos las celebraciones for ways you can provide input online and through in-person navideñas con familiares y amigos, un recordatorio de que meetings. esta época del año no siempre es feliz para todos. Muchos experimentan dolor, pérdida, soledad o pueden tener dificultades Holidays and Safety: As we look forward to the holiday económicas durante este tiempo. Animo a todos a ser celebrations with family and friends, a gentle reminder that observadores de sus vecinos, amigos y familiares, y a extender la this time of year is not always joyous for all. Many experience mano a aquellos que tal vez sólo necesiten una mano, un oído o grief, loss, loneliness, or may struggle financially during this simplemente un corazón abierto. time. I encourage everyone to be observant of your neighbors, friends, and family, and reach out those who may just need a Finalmente, muchas comunidades ven un aumento en la hand, ear, or just an open heart. delincuencia durante la temporada navideña. Por eso ofrecemos algunos recordatorios. Recuerde mantener la vigilancia y Finally, many communities see a spike in crime during the mantenerse alerta cuando esté fuera de casa. Cuando compre holiday season. So we offer a few reminders. Remember después del anochecer, estacione en áreas bien iluminadas, to maintain vigilance and stay alert when you are out and asegúrese de cerrar las puertas y ventanas del automóvil y about. When shopping after dark, park in well lit areas, be mantenga el dinero en efectivo y sus pertenencias personales sure to lock cars doors and close windows and keep cash and cerca de su cuerpo. personal belongings close to your body.

La temporada navideña es un momento para disfrutar de las The holiday season is a time to enjoy traditions, family, and tradiciones, la familia y los amigos. Manténgase seguro y disfrute friends. Stay safe and have a joyous holiday season. de unas felices fiestas.

The Hyattsville Reporter | December 2023 | Page 1

ANNOUNCEMENTS |

ANUNCIOS

THE RHODE ISLAND TROLLEY TRAIL IS OPEN!

¡EL SENDERO RHODE ISLAND TROLLEY TRAIL ESTÁ ABIERTO!

EDUCATIONAL GRANTS & SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

SUBVENCIONES EDUCATIVAS Y OPORTUNIDADES DE BECAS

Trail users can rejoice as the long-awaited Rhode Island Trolley Trail extension along U.S. Route 1 is now open!

The new half-mile extension trail will allow pedestrians and cyclists to safely travel from Washington D.C to College Park. Many local organizations are hosting events to celebrate the trail’s opening, including a community ceremony hosted by the Hyattsville Community Development Corporation on January 20, 2024. More details will be available at hyattsville.org/calendar when they become available.

The City’s Education Enrichment Grant Program is an annual grant opportunity that supports public elementary, middle, and high schools that have attendance boundaries within City limits. If you are a parent or guardian of a school-age kid, encourage your school and PTA to apply for a grant of up to $750! Applications are due by 5 p.m. on January 12, 2024. Details at hyattsville.org/grants.

Hyattsville High School seniors and graduates pursuing post-secondary education are encouraged to advantage of the Educational Path Scholarship Program, opening in early 2024! Check out last year’s winners and prepare for the application process at hyattsville.org/education.

ROUTE 1 AREA STREET CLOSURES

A reminder that a single lane of southbound Route 1 is closed on Sunday – Thursday from 9 p.m. - 5 a.m. to connect the Canvas Apartment development to necessary utilities.

Road closures along Jefferson Street, 44th Avenue, and Hamilton Street are expected to follow in early 2024. More information is available at hyattsville.org/canvas.

HELP US ENVISION THE FUTURE OF DRISKELL PARK

The City is looking for feedback to help refine the Driskell Park Master Plan! Visit hellohyattsville.com by January 5 to complete a brief survey on what concepts and themes you’d like incorporated in the final design.

ROOMS AT CITY BUILDING AVAILABLE FOR RESERVATION

Public room reservations in the City Building have resumed for resident groups and non-profits to host meetings and activities! Visit hyattsville.org/room-rental or call (301) 985-5000 to learn more.

¡Los usuarios de los senderos pueden alegrarse porque la tan esperada extensión del Rhode Island Trolley Trail a lo largo de la Ruta 1 ya está abierta! La extensión de media milla permitirá a peatones y ciclistas viajar de manera segura desde Washington D.C hasta College Park. Muchas organizaciones locales están organizando eventos para celebrar la apertura del sendero, incluida una ceremonia comunitaria organizada por el Hyattsville Community Development Corporation el 20 de enero de 2024. Habrá más detalles disponibles en hyattsville.org/ calendar cuando estén disponibles.

El Programa de Subvenciones de Enriquecimiento Educativo de la Ciudad es una oportunidad de subvención anual que apoya a las escuelas públicas primarias, intermedias y secundarias que tienen límites de asistencia dentro de los límites de la ciudad.

Si usted es padre de un menor de edad escolar, ¡anime a su escuela y a la PTA a solicitar una subvención de hasta $750! Las solicitudes deben presentarse antes de las 5 p.m. del 12 de enero del 2024. Más información en hyattsville.org/grants.

Alentamos a los alumnos del último año de escuela y a los graduados que cursan estudiados postsecundarios de Hyattsville a que aprovechen el Programa de Becas del Camino Educativo que se lanzará a principios de 2024. Echa un vistazo a los ganadores del año pasado y prepárate para el proceso de solicitud en hyattsville.org/education.

CIERRES DE CALLES EN EL ÁREA DE LA RUTA 1

Un recordatorio que un carril de la Ruta 1 en dirección sur está cerrado de domingo a jueves de 9 p.m. - 5 a.m. para conectar el desarrollo de los apartamentos Canvas con los servicios públicos necesarios. Se espera que a principios de 2024 se cierren carreteras a lo largo de Jefferson Street, 44th Avenue y Hamilton Street. Encuentre detalles en hyattsville.org/canvas.

AYÚDANOS A IMAGINAR EL FUTURO DEL PARQUE DRISKELL ¡La Ciudad está buscando comentarios para ayudar a perfeccionar el Plan Maestro del Parque Driskell! Visite hellohyattsville.com antes del 5 de enero para completar una breve encuesta sobre qué conceptos y temas le gustaría incorporar en el diseño final.

CUARTOS DEL EFIFICIO MUNICIPAL DISPONIBLES PARA RESERVA

WINTER WEATHER TIPS & REMINDERS

¡Las reservas de cuartos públicos en el Edificio Municipal se han reanudado para que grupos de residentes de la Ciudad y organizaciones sin fines de lucro organicen reuniones y actividades! Visite hyattsville.org/room-rental o llame al (301) 985-5000 para aprender más.

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CONSEJOS Y RECORDATORIOS SOBRE EL CLIMA INVERNAL

•

• • •

Stockpile an emergency kit in preparation of power outages and other emergencies. Find guidance from FEMA at Ready.gov.

In the event of snow, residents are responsible for clearing the sidewalks adjacent to their properties within 24 hours after snowfall ends. Check on your neighbors and offer assistance if you can!

Find a list of emergency utility contacts at hyattsville. org/utilities. For downed power lines or natural gas emergencies, always call 911.

Stay off the roads if possible during snow or ice events.

The City’s Public Works Team monitors storms and treats City streets as needed.

Report fallen trees or branches blocking City streets or sidewalks at hyattsville.org/requests, through the MyHyattsville app, or calling Public Works at (301) 9855032.

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Page 2 | December 2023 | The Hyattsville Reporter

Prepare un kit de emergencia para prepararse en caso de cortes de energía y otras emergencias. Encuentre orientación de FEMA en Ready.gov.

En caso de nieve, los residentes son responsables de limpiar las aceras adyacentes a sus propiedades dentro de las 24 horas posteriores a que termine la nevada. ¡Visita a tus vecinos y ofréceles ayuda si puedes!

Encuentre una lista de contactos de servicios públicos de emergencia en hyattsville.org/utilities. Para líneas eléctricas caídas o emergencias de gas, llame siempre al 911.

Manténgase alejado de las carreteras si es posible durante eventos de nieve o hielo. El Equipo de Obras Públicas de la Ciudad monitorea las tormentas y trata las calles de la Ciudad según sea necesario.

Reporte árboles o ramas caídas que bloqueen las calles o aceras de la Ciudad en hyattsville.org/requests, a través de la aplicación MyHyattsville o llamando a al (301) 985-5032.

CALENDAR SENIORFIT+ CLASSES The City offers seated exercise classes on Wednesdays from 10 - 11 AM at the Hyattsville City Building. Classes are free and drops-ins are welcome! hyattsville.org/seniors.

FREE ZUMBA CLASSES Wednesdays from 4 - 5 PM at the City Building! Details at hyattsville.org/wellness.

CLAUS APPLAUSE

The last day to nominate homes for the annual Claus Applause Holiday Lights Decorating Contest is December 15! Find the form and contest details at hyattsville.org/applause.

NIGHT OWLS

Enjoy a Friday night out on December 15 by dropping off your little one(s) at the Driskell Park Rec Center from 6 - 9 PM for an evening of fun! hyattsville.org/nightowls.

INVASINE VINES REMOVAL TRAINING

Learn how to safely remove invasive vines without harming trees by attending a community training on December 16 from 9 AM - noon at the First United Methodist Church. Learn Register at hyattsville.org/ enviro-education.

SHOP WITH A COP

On December 16, the Hyattsville Police Department will be hosting its 19th annual Shop with a Cop! Please be aware of sirens and increased police presence in the City on this day.

MERENGUE DANCE SESSION FOR YOUTH

Hyattsville middle- and high-schoolers are invited the last merengue dance session on December 18 from 5 - 6 PM at the Driskell Park Rec. Center. Register at hyattsville. org/youth-center.

|

CONCURSO DE DECORACIONES

FREE PRODUCE

The City is hosting a produce distribution on December 19 at the First United Methodist Church, starting at noon.

Produce is first come, first served to walk-ups and drivers.

¡El último día para nominar casas para el concurso anual de decoración de luces navideñas Claus Applause es el 15 de diciembre! Encuentre detalles sobre el concurso en hyattsville.org/applause.

YOUTH WINTER CAMP

Sign up your little one(s) (grades K - 5) for the City’s winter camp December 26 29. Camp runs from 9 AM - 3 PM at the Driskell Park Rec Center. Find details and fees at hyattsville.org/camps.

BÚHOS NOCTURNOS ¡Disfrute de un viernes el 15 de diciembre dejando a su(s) pequeño(s) en el Centro Recreativo Driskell Park de 6 - 9 PM para una noche de diversión! hyattsville.org/nightowls.

INTERGENERATIONAL BAKE-OFF!

ENTRENAMIENTO DE VIDES INVASORAS

Seniors can enjoy a baking day at the Hyattsville Mennonite Church, 4217 EastWest Highway, on December 28, at 11 AM. Space is limited. Register by emailing seniors@hyattsville.org or calling (301) 985-5000.

Aprenda cómo eliminar de forma segura las vides invasoras sin dañar árboles asistiendo a un entrenamiento el 16 de diciembre de 9 AM a mediodía en la Primera Iglesia Metodista Unida.

Registresé en hyattsville.org/ enviro-education.

SENIORS ON THE GO!

Hyattsville’s Seniors on the Go are visiting Watkins Park in Upper Malboro for the Festival of Lights on December 29 from 4 - 8 PM. Lunch and transportation are provided. Register before spaces fill up by calling (301) 985-5000 or emailing seniors@hyattsville.org.

EVENTO POLICIAL

El 16 de diciembre, el Departamento de Policía de Hyattsville organizará su 19ª edición anual Compra con un Policia! Tenga en cuenta las sirenas y el aumento de la presencia policial en la ciudad en este día.

DRISKELL PARK YOUTH/TEEN CENTER

Drop-in hours from 3 - 5 PM and special programming from 5 - 6 PM for Hyattsville middle- and high-schoolers resume at the Driskell Park Rec Center on January 3. Sign up your student for a free membership at hyattsville.org/youth-center.

DONATION DRIVE FOR VETERANS

The last day to donate towards the City’s Veteran Donation Drive is January 5. Find a list of suggested donation items and dropoff sites at hyattsville.org/ veterans.

HOLIDAY WASTE COLLECTION CHANGES

CALENDARIO

CLASES DE EJERCICIOS SENTADOS

La Ciudad ofrece clases de ejercicios sentados los miércoles de 10 - 11 AM. en el Edificio Municipal de Hyattsville. ¡Las clases son gratuitas y las visitas son bienvenidas! hyattsville.org/ seniors.

ZUMBA GRATIS

Cada miércoles de 4 - 5 PM en el Edificio Municipal de Hyattsville. Detalles en hyattsville.org/wellness.

Hyattsville City offices will be closed on Monday, December 25 and Monday, January for Christmas and New Year’s Day. Please note that there will be no leaf, yard waste, or compost collection for both weeks. Regular trash and County recycling routes will remain the same. For more information on waste collection changes, visit hyattsville.org/trash or call (301) 985-5032.

CLASE DE MERENGUE PARA JÓVENES

Estudiantes de secundaria y preparatoria de Hyattsville están invitados a la última sesión de merengue el 18 de diciembre de 5 a 6 PM en el Centro Recreativo de Driskell Park. Regístrese en hyattsville.org/youth-center.

COMIDA GRATIS

La Ciudad está organizando una distribución de productos agrícolas el 19 de diciembre en la Primera Iglesia Metodista Unida, a partir del mediodía. La comida se sirve por orden de llegada a conductores y personas a pie.

CAMPAMENTO INVERNAL

Inscriba a su(s) pequeño(s) (grados K - 5) para el campamento invernal del 26 al 29 de diciembre.

El campamento es de 9 AM a 3 PM. en el Centro Recreativo de Driskell Park.

Encuentre detalles y precios en hyattsville.org/camps.

DÍA DE HORNEAR

Las personas mayores pueden disfrutar de un día de hornear con jóvenes en la Iglesia Menonita de Hyattsville, 4217 EastWest Highway, el 28 de diciembre, a las 11 AM. El espacio es limitado.

Regístrese enviando un email a seniors@hyattsville. org o llamando al (301) 985-5000.

VIAJE PARA LA TERCERA EDAD

El grupo de la tercera edad de Hyattsville están visitando Watkins Park en Upper Malboro para el Festival de las Luces el 29 de diciembre de 4 a 8 PM. Almuerzo y transporte se proporcionan. Regístrese llamando al (301) 985-5000 o enviando un email a seniors@hyattsville.org.

CENTRO JUVENIL

El horario libre de 3 a 5 PM y programación especial de 5 - 6 PM para los estudiantes de secundaria y preparatoria de Hyattsville se reanuda en el Centro Recreativo Driskell Park el 3 de enero. Inscriba a su estudiante para obtener una membresía gratuita en hyattsville.org/youth-center.

DONACIONES PARA VETERANOS

El último día para donar a la Campaña de Donación de Veteranos de la Ciudad es el 5 de enero. Encuentre una lista de artículos de donación sugeridos y sitios de entrega en hyattsville. org/veterans.

CAMBIOS DE SERVICIO DURANTE LAS FIESTAS

Las oficinas de la ciudad de Hyattsville permanecerán cerradas el lunes 25 de diciembre y el lunes 1 de enero por Navidad y Año Nuevo.

Tenga en cuenta que no habrá recolección de hojas, desechos de jardín o compostaje para ambas semanas. Las rutas regulares de basura y reciclaje del Condado seguirán siendo las mismas. Para más información sobre los cambios en la recogida de basura, visite hyattsville.org/trash o llame al (301) 985-5032.

The Hyattsville Reporter | December 2023 | Page 3

HIGHLIGHTS | LO DESTACADO

Arrow Bicycle Art ‘N Hair Burning Bush Enterprises LLC Cabrera Jiu Jitsu Academy Cheeky’s Vintage Chez Dior Cocineros Curzi’s Seafood DTRUTH Boutique Emerita’s Restaurant and Carry Out Frame Savvy

Page 4 | December 2023 | The Hyattsville Reporter

Hyattsville Life & Times | December 2023

Page 7

ADVERTISEMENT

If you resided in an apartment at Bedford Station Apartments or Victoria Station Apartments near University Blvd. in Langley Park, MD, between July 19, 2018, and May 23, 2022, you may be eligible for a payment from a class action settlement.

Notice Of Proposed Class Action Settlement And Your Rights A federal court authorized this notice.

This is not a solicitation from a lawyer.

• Your legal rights are affected whether you act or don’t act. Read this notice carefully.

• The settlement will create a cash settlement fund that equals $3,000,000.00, which will be used to pay (i) cash payments to eligible tenants; (ii) Class Counsel’s attorneys’ fees and expenses; (iii) Class Representative incentive awards; and (iv) settlement administration.

• The settlement will pay eligible residents of Bedford Station or Victoria Station apartment complexes (“Bedford and Victoria Station Apartment Complexes”) to settle claims related to alleged uninhabitable conditions at the apartments. The payments will be made in exchange for a release of claims against Bedford United, LLC, Victoria United, LLC, Realty Management Services, Inc. d/b/a “Ross Management” and other Defendants as more fully described at BedfordandVictoriaStationSettlement.com.

• If you resided in an apartment within the Bedford and Victoria Station Apartment Complexes between July 19, 2018 and May 23, 2022, you are a class member.

• The settlement provides for a monetary payment to the residents of each eligible apartment. The exact amount of any final payment to the residents will depend on the Court’s award of attorneys’ fees and expenses, the Court’s award of class representative incentive awards, the costs of settlement administration, and the number of valid claims submitted. The eligible property payment amount will be calculated by the Settlement Administrator once all of these other costs are known. Individual class member payments will be weighted based on the duration of residence between July 19, 2018, and May 23,

2022 (the “Class Period”).

• TO RECEIVE A PAYMENT, YOU MUST FILL OUT A CLAIM FORM and demonstrate that you resided in an apartment covered by the settlement during the Class Period. The claim form is available online at BedfordandVictoriaStationSettlement.com or you can call 1-800-657-1193 to request that a form be sent to you. You must return the claim and release form by February 7, 2024.

• If you do not wish to participate in or be bound by the settlement, you must exclude yourself by filing an “opt-out” or “exclusion” notice by January 8, 2024, or you will be barred from bringing any legal action that this settlement resolves in the future. Details regarding how to opt-out or exclude yourself are available at BedfordandVictoriaStationSettlement.com.

If you exclude yourself, you will not receive any payment under the settlement.

• The Court will hold a hearing in this case, CASA de Maryland, Inc., et al. v. Arbor Realty Trust, Inc., et al; Civil Action No. 8:21-cv-01778DKC (D. Md.), on March 8, 2024 at 10:00 a.m.

Eastern Time to consider whether to approve the settlement and class counsel’s request for fees and expenses. You have the right to appear at this hearing personally or through counsel at your own expense, although you do not have to.

• PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT THE COURT DIRECTLY. The Court cannot provide you with legal advice or any opinion regarding the lawsuit or proposed settlement. For more information, or to request a more detailed notice, go to BedfordandVictoriaStationSettlement.com or call 1-800-657-1193.

Hyattsville Life & Times | December 2023

Page 8

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My granddaughter just bought a condo that has an oriel window facing east. I think it would be a great place for plants. She has never grown anything before, so I’d like to buy her some easy ones as a Christmas gift. Can you recommend some houseplants that don’t require a lot of special care? It would be nice if they had flowers, and even nicer if the flowers bloomed at Christmas.

She has a half-grown kitten who is agile and curious — so poinsettias and amaryllis are out.

Botanic Nana on Buchanan Street Dear Botanic Nana, Christmas cacti (Schlumbergera) would make an ideal gift. Schlumbergera (and this includes Thanksgiving and Easter cacti, as well, which I’ll differentiate later) come in a spectacular spectrum of colors, ranging from a demure blush to flamboyant fuchsia to sizzling scarlet to incandescent orange.

They are nontoxic, so an inquisitive kitten could sample them with impunity. They are easycare and disease-free, and they can last for many years. There are record-breakers that have lived for more than 100 years!

They can be made to rebloom at Christmas every year, and can stay in bloom through the six darkest weeks of winter.

After these cacti finish flowering, they are easily propagated from cuttings in water or in a very light, slightly acidic potting soil sold for succulents. In a few years, your granddaughter could fill that window with new plants — and make gifts of them to her friends at Christmas.

When they begin to droop and their leaf pads lose color, she will know they need a slightly larger new home. Unlike such gesneriads as African violets, Schlumbergera are not particular about the containers they are planted in; don’t put them in too large a pot, however. They like being fairly snug in their pots, in light soil that doesn’t compact around their roots, which is related to how they thrive in their natural habitat.

These cacti are not desert plants, but are actually zygocacti. Like the much fussier orchids, they are epiphytes that grow in pockets of trees in the coastal mountain regions of Central America and Brazil, where they are pollinated by hummingbirds. Unlike desert cacti, they need to be watered every one to two weeks, and — like orchids — they enjoy being misted.

Because Schlumbergera don’t grow in bogs, overwatering can cause root rot, and because they shelter beneath a canopy of tree leaves, they don’t like intense sunlight. You can tell they are getting too much sun if the leaves become reddish. If they are placed in a window facing south, consider using a sheer curtain to filter the sunlight.

Because it is found at high altitudes, this variety of cactus likes a cooler temperature than desert cacti. My neighbor Flor da Selva has her window sills brimming with these plants in winter, but in summer, she puts them outside in a shaded spot on her covered front porch. As temperatures drop in fall, she takes them down to her cool, dark basement to start the process of forcing them to flower.

Flor strongly emphasizes that they need at least 12 hours of uninterrupted full darkness and that even a dim light will skew the chemical signal produced in the dark. The temperature should not ever rise much above 60 F. She favors a mixture of Thanksgiving and Christmas

What we find in nurseries and grocery stores at different times of the year can be a mixture of three cacti varieties: Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter. WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

cacti, and she brings the Thanksgiving cacti down in September and the Christmas cacti in October. She then fertilizes them with a low nitrogen 0-10-10 fertilizer, and reduces the water she gives them. When the flowers open, she brings them back to the window sills upstairs where their festive color enhances the holidays and continues to brighten the darkest days of winter.

What we find in nurseries and grocery stores at different times of the year can be a mixture of three cacti varieties: Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter. They can be distinguished by the shaping of their leaf-pad edges. The Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) has sharper edges than does the Christmas cactus; the Easter cactus (Schlumbergera gaertneri) has more gently rounded edges; the Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) has edges slightly upturned that remind me of the edges of Christmas-tree cookies.

Christmas cactus colors tend to be more pastel than those of the Easter cactus, which has the brightest colors — the ones most appropriate for Christmas. The Easter cactus is named for the fact that it blooms in late winter and early spring. Like its relatives, it is what is called a short-day plant, which needs a cool, dark place to produce flowers. Using these three varieties, we can have cheerful indoor blooms from fall till spring.

To discuss this with Flor and others who love this plant, please come to the next meeting of the Hyattsville Horticultural Society on Saturday, Dec. 16, at 10 a.m., at the Hyattsville Municipal Building (4310 Gallatin Street), downstairs. Parking is free in the lot surrounding the building, and a side door to the meeting room will be left open.

Miss Floribunda writes about gardening for the Life & Times. You may email her at floribundav@ gmail.com.

Hyattsville Life & Times | December 2023

Page 9

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

O

ur list of events sponsored by local nonprofits, arts organizations and performance venues, occurring between Dec. 13, 2023, and Jan. 9, 2024; all information is current as of Dec. 8. For events and meetings organized by the City of Hyattsville, see the Hyattsville Reporter in the newspaper’s centerfold.

Please send notices of events that will take place between Jan. 10 and Feb. 13, to managingeditor@ hyattsvillelife.com by Jan. 4.

RECURRING Busboys and Poets hosts an open mic for poets every Thursday. $5. 8 to 10 p.m. 5331 Baltimore Ave. 301.779.2787.

Busboysandpoets.com Weekly acoustic blues jams, in the Piedmont blues tradition. Listeners welcome! Free. Saturdays 1 to 5 p.m. Archie Edwards Blues Foundation, 4502 Hamilton St. Acousticblues.com Sharpen your drawing skills in a relaxed, informal setting at Hyattsville figure drawing group's drop-in drawing sessions at Pyramid Atlantic Art Center. Bring your own art supplies; drawing boards and chairs provided. $20/session or $75/5-session punch card or $15/session for Pyramid Atlantic members. Tuesdays, 6 to 9 p.m. 4218 Gallatin St. hyattsvillefiguredrawing@ gmail.com

ONGOING View Pyramid Atlantic Art Center’s 11th Annual 10 x 10 Invitational. This exhibition/ fundraiser has just two rules: All work must measure 10 x 10 inches and be priced at $60.

Through Dec. 24. Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Friday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 4218 Gallatin St. pyramidatlanticartcenter.org.

301.608.9101

DECEMBER 15 Come listen to “Holidays in Harmony” with the Brencore Allstars. Enjoy a holidaythemed concert with all your favorite renditions of holiday songs from Nat King Cole, James Brown and many others. $15, for ages 60 and better.

Register at pgparksdirect. com. Publick Playhouse, 5445 Landover Rd., Cheverly.

301.277.1710

DECEMBER 15 TO 17 Holiday Trains and Planes Weekend: The National Capital Trackers bring their fleet of model trains to the College Park Aviation Museum for the holiday season! Free with museum admission (adults $5; seniors $4; children $2). Friday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

1985 Corporal Frank Scott Dr., College Park. 301.864.6029

DECEMBER 16 Volunteers are invited to join the Anacostia Watershed Society for a Habitat Restoration Workday at Bladensburg Waterfront Park. This weather-dependent event will focus on tree maintenance, including repairing tree shelters and fencing, and removing invasive plant species. Free, although registration is required at anacostiaws. org. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. 4601 Annapolis Rd., Bladensburg.

For more information, contact ecastelli2@anacostiaws.org or call 301.699.6204 x103.

Santa pays a visit to Streetcar 82 Brewing Co. from 1 to 3 p.m.

Then, stick around for music from Jon Watkins from 3 to 5 p.m. Free. 4824 Rhode Island Ave. Streetcar82brewing.com

DECEMBER 19 The Hyattsville Branch Library hosts Board Game Fun, with a variety of board games in the art room. For ages 5 to 12. Free.

Lawson’s Pharmacy

301-864-4043

All major insurance accepted. We deliver!

Now offering Immunizations by appointment.

Accepting New Patients.

3415 Hamilton St, Hyattsville

DECEMBER 16

Joe Basso and Ryan-Allen McKinney share Irish culture through music and have cultivated a wide variety of pub tunes, rebel songs and Celticinspired pop music. Free. Noon to 3 p.m. 4824 Rhode Island Ave. Streetcar82brewing.com

Come enjoy a family-friendly workshop, “Let’s Get Ornamental,” and create handmade ornaments from a variety of materials. Free, with all materials provided.

2 to 4 p.m. Brentwood Arts Exchange, 3901 Rhode Island Ave., Brentwood. brentwoodarts@pgparks. com. 301.277.2863 Register at pgcmls.info/events.

4 to 5 p.m. 6530 Adelphi Rd. 240.455.5451

DECEMBER 20 Joe’s dirtie lab. is a monthly artist critique seminar in collaboration with Joe’s Movement Emporium, Red Dirt and The Gateway Media Arts Lab. December’s artist is Bridgette C. Burton, a

JANUARY 6 The first-Saturday-of-everymonth Swing Jam brings together musicians who are interested in playing swing jazz music. Lead sheets for C, Bb and Eb instruments will be provided. All musicians and vocalists are welcome, especially those who play saxophone, trumpet or trombone. For more information and to receive music sheets, send an email to aedmvswings@gmail.com. 5 to 7 p.m. Archie Edwards Blues Foundation, 4502 Hamilton St. Acousticblues.com

playwright who uses her art as a catalyst for healing and imagining future possibilities.

Free. 7 to 9 p.m. RSVP to Joesmovement.org. Joe’s Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Rd., Mt. Rainier.

301.699.1819

DECEMBER 23 The O’McPub Band performs at Streetcar 82 Brewing Co.

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Hyattsville Life & Times | December 2023

Page 10

SOCCER FROM PAGE 1

but just didn’t capitalize. It wasn’t our night to win. … I take my hat off to Leonardtown.”

The Wildcats, who won the school’s third state title in 2021, have posted a three-year record of 35-3-3 (.890 winning percentage). Their loss to the Raiders in the state final Nov. 17 at Loyola University Maryland in Baltimore was their first on the field since Sept. 28, 2021.

After posting a 10-0-2 mark in 2022 and beating High Point 2-0 in the region semifinals, Northwestern was disqualified from the state tournament for use of an ineligible player. (Exactly why the player was ruled ineligible was never publicly disclosed. Ramirez told WTOP there was no way for him and his assistants to know that the player wasn’t eligible.)

The Wildcats continued their winning ways in 2023.

They were 13-0-1 heading into the state championship after downing Urbana in the semifinals, 2-1, on an overtime goal by senior Josue Mejia Rico.

Northwestern fell behind 2-0 to Leonardtown (18-1-1) before junior Denilson Mora Alvarez scored in the 68th min-

The Northwestern High School boys soccer team won its second county championship in three years this season.

The squad has won 89% of its games since 2021 and advanced to two state championships. COURTESY OF VICTOR RAMIREZ

ute. With just 1:17 to play, senior Marvin Arias drilled a rebound off the crossbar into the net to tie the game.

“We were fighting and fighting; that’s who we are,” Ramirez said. “People underestimate us a lot.”

After two 10-minute overtimes failed to produce a winner, the game came down to penalty kicks. The Raiders made all four of their attempts while conceding only two for their first state title.

The Wildcats were the only team to score two goals against Leonardtown all year.

“We hadn’t faced a team all season that had guys with that kind of skill and ability individually,” Raiders coach Luke Kokolios said. “I thought their front four — their attacking [midfielder], striker and wingers — they were all exceptional players. They had a midfielder who could turn really well and was dangerous. So, it was a big test for us.

“Going up by two [goals] is always a dangerous lead, and they made us pay when we weren’t turned on at times. So, I can’t say enough about the talent that Northwestern has, and they’re coached very well.”

Mejia Rico was a sophomore when Northwestern won it all.

“It was a great experience, a beautiful experience,” he said.

“To be here for a second time — not many people are able to achieve that. I hope the ninth-, tenth- and 11th-graders can come back again.”

The Wildcats should have another strong team next season.

Rising seniors include Mora Alvarez — the team’s leading goal scorer (13) — Franklin Cruz (12 goals) and Arturo Acosta (2 goals, 8 assists). Goalkeeper Jason Mejia will be a junior.

Northwestern finished sixth

in The Washington Post’s final 2023 rankings and was second two years ago. Its success has boys eager to play.

“We have very talented kids, and they have really bought into the program,” Ramirez said. “I think some of the kids now are saying, ‘We have a winning program,’ and the students want to be a part of that. It’s a pride thing, and they’re very proud to be part of the soccer team.

“I think we have really implemented a winner’s mentality.”

The Wildcats took a 38-game unbeaten streak into this year’s final.

“That’s an indication of their hard work and dedication,” Ramirez said. “The talent is there, but I think we’ve created something that the kids have really bought into. I’ll put my program up against anyone’s. I always tell someone, ‘You catch us at the end of the season — we can play with the Catholic schools, we can play with the private schools.’”

Ramirez, a 1992 Northwestern graduate, is clear about his team’s focus each season: “Our goal is to get to the state championship every year.”

Chris McManes covers sports for the Life & Times.

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Hyattsville Life & Times | December 2023

DELEGATION FROM PAGE 1

Page 11

be deemed enough?” Wessel asked. “This would make the development process even more political and unpredictable, leaving developers with no way of knowing what they will be expected to do to get their projects done or how much it would cost.”

Shipley & Horne lawyer Robert Antonetti Jr., who represents the developer Freeway Realty LLC, said the county council already has a process for evaluating rezoning, as it did in 2019.

“Furthermore, there is a judicial process for applicants, property owners and aggrieved individuals to challenge local land-use decisions, including local ordinances,” Antonetti said. “Thus, there’s no need for the General Assembly to insert itself in this matter.”

However, Hyattsville resident Jon Robinson responded that the same county council Antonetti credited as a decisionmaking body had since repealed the rezoning.

“It’s ironic that the lawyer for the developer talked about the authority of the county council,” Robinson said. “They’re actually appealing the actions of the county council that did away with ... the zoning that they were able to get because of their political power with the previous council.”

cacy for stop-sign cameras and other monitoring systems following the recent tragedy in Riverdale Park, in which two children were killed in a crosswalk near the elementary school.

Riverdale Park resident Eleanor Hancock, who lives about four blocks from where the accident occurred, said stories of driver misconduct flooded her neighborhood following the tragedy. Hancock said her daughter has regularly complained about the dangerous intersection between Taylor Road and Longfellow Street.

“Speeding — and failure to stop at stop signs — is an epidemic throughout Riverdale Park,” Hancock said. “Our community needs the freedom to install traffic control cameras at strategic points in order to change driver behavior that has grown dangerous from enforcement neglect.”

the bill is in alignment with the school system’s Climate Change Action Plan.

Boozer-Strother said that by relocating its headquarters, the district can demolish inefficient buildings, repurpose vacant land and reduce operating costs. Moreover, she explained that the bill is the first step toward having a clean-energy, world-class headquarters that is more centrally located in the county.

Another proposed education bill, PG 503-24, also had an array of advocates. As the bill’s sponsor, state Sen. Alonzo Washington (District 22) said that although the median home price in the county is $415,000, the starting salary for educators is only about $55,000. To counteract this discrepancy, his bill would provide a property tax credit — up to $2,500 annually — for teachers and personnel who have worked for PGCPS for at least two years.

Theresa Dudley, a teacher involved with the state and county education associations, was the last public speaker of the evening. She took the podium to support her fellow educators around 9 p.m. — three hours after the meeting started.

“The 2024 legislative session is an important opportunity to continue to build on the strong work and history of commitment to our public schools by the government and the legislature,” Dudley said. “You saved the best for last — how about that!”

impacted community before the district council. It also states that community members can seek a civil injunction if the benefits agreement is violated. So, in essence, the bill could give community memZONING AMENDMENT bers more influence during the PROHIBITION development review process Public comments from commuand more assistance if the denity activists, local residents and veloper does not comply with representatives of developers the agreement. and builders’ associations also Joseph Jakuta, who was repincluded a range of perspectives resenting the Sierra Club Maryon PG/MC 115-24, which would land Chapter, said he supports prohibit the county council from this legislation because it will changing zoning law to permit likely mitigate some of the negsingle-family housing on certain ative effects associated with deairport property. velopment projects.

During public comments, two “Land-use decisions often inairports were repeatedly menvolve disproportionate impacts tioned: the Freeway Airport, on some communities and some in Bowie, and Hyde Field, in individuals,” Jakuta said. “Too Clinton. According to multiple often projects are approved deTWO EDUCATION BILLS WTOP articles, Freeway Airspite strong opposition from the The education bills also had a port in particular has a complicommunity. The benefits go to lot of support. One of them, PG cated past, as the county counthe developers, and the costs of 501-24, would require the board cil originally voted to rezone it these adverse impacts are borne to hire an independent contracin 2019, which the Maryland by the community.”

TRAFFIC CONTROL tor to assess the possibility of Court of Appeals subsequently Erika Fareed, a Glenarden DEVICE MONITORING relocating the Prince George’s overturned in 2022. However, councilmember, also said the SYSTEMS County Public Schools (PGCPS) the Maryland Supreme Court bill is beneficial because it emThere appeared to be more conheadquarters. ruled in favor of the developer powers community voices. sensus on legislation not related County school board member earlier this year. The confusion “The requirement for deto land-use and zoning. One such Pamela Boozer-Strother (Discontinues, as the current counvelopers to negotiate and enbill, PG 301-24, sponsored by Del. trict 3), whose district includes cil — “which is led by a majorter into community benefits Anne Healey (District 22), would Hyattsville, said she and her colity that takes a different view agreements is a testament to authorize the use of traffic conleagues attended the hearing as on development,” according to our commitment to inclusive trol device monitoring systems a show of gratitude to, and unity a WTOP article — recently redevelopment,” Fareed said. “It by local and state agencies. Healwith, the House Delegation. Adscinded its own legislation that ensures that development projey said there is even more advoditionally, she explained that favored the rezoning. ects, which can often seem opposing or disconnected from local needs, directly contribute to the well-being and enhancement of the communities they are set to serve.”

In contrast, two representatives from Rodgers Consulting spoke against the bill. One of them, Casey Anderson, specifically responded to community activist Janna Parker, who made Realtor®, ABR, SRS, RENE, AHWD comments that development projects often fail to include Long & Foster the appropriate infrastructure.

Real Estate, Inc. While Parker said that resiWishing Hya sville and all our 9094 Baltimore Avenue, dents do not want more develneighbors a joyous holiday season College Park, MD 20740 opment without good enough and a healthy, peaceful and cell: 240-938-6060 utilities, road systems and pubprosperous new year! office: 301-441-9511 lic schools, Anderson said it is email: ann.barrett@LNF.com HAPPY NEW YEAR routine for builders to add turn From our Hya sville Home to yours! www.longandfoster.com/ANNBARRETT lanes, sidewalks or even green space as part of the development process.

Then, Anderson and his colleague, Senior Director Matthew Wessel, both said the Community Empowerment SOLD COMING SOON Act is subjective, arbitrary and political in nature. They added 3 Bedrooms, 1 ½ baths! Renovated Proven Results: Oglethorpe Condominium Top Floor that the bill will make it diffiTop-Producing Individual Agent, Long & Unit with a fabulous balcony! Listed Foster College Park 2009 - 2022! cult for developers to plan their for $209,000! projects.

Top Listing Agent, Long & Foster Prince “It’s not clear what commuGeorge’s County Southern Maryland Region, 2018-2022 nity benefits this bill is hoping to provide, and, if the developer 4001 Clagett Road, Hyattsville 5116 Decatur Street, Hyattsville The information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted.

Sold for $770,000 Sold for $440,000 is required to provide commu6013 44th Ave.would Hyattsville, listed nity benefits, how much for $415,000, sold for $429,000!

Selling Hyattsville

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Merry

CHRISTMAS

Super charming 2 BR, 2 Bath bungalow lovingly updated. Multiple offers received!

Hyattsville Life & Times | December 2023

Page 12

ZERO WASTE OF TIME

Turn your old grocery bags into festive stars

By JULIETTE FRADIN

T

he holidays are certainly a time for extravaganza and excess. Unfortunately, it’s also a time for excess waste that includes food, shopping bags, bows, ribbons, wrapping paper, holiday decor, lights and so on.

Once the holiday season hits, I like making decorations with my kids to turn our everyday house into a festive home. Reusing what we have on hand eliminates the need to go out and buy new stuff — and it frees up storage space.

Reuse is one of the best ways to cut waste.

Despite my conscientious use of tote bags, a number of paper grocery bags shuffle their way into my house (bonus tip: Ask the cashier to not double the bags.). This year, I enlisted these interlopers to make a giant paper bag star. It’s a simple and free decoration that even the littles can help with.

MATERIALS • 5-6 grocery paper bags • glue (hot glue gun, Elmer’s, glue stick, etc.)

• regular scissors (or pinking shears — zig zag scissors — if you’re fancy) • hole punch • twine

INSTRUCTIONS

For a visual step-by-step guide, see this column online at StreetcarSuburbs.News.

• Remove grocery bag handles.

• Lay the bags flat, with the unfolded side facing up.

• Add a T-shape line of glue to a paper bag, then lay the next bag on top. Repeat this step for 5 more bags. Make sure to face the bags all the same way when you are gluing them together.

• Once you have all the bags glued together, use the scissors to cut the tops of bags off, form-

ing a point (or whatever shape you want). Cut small triangles or other shapes into the sides of bags to create designs if desired.

Because the bags are difficult to cut through, consider making two stacks of glued bags, cutting as desired, then gluing the two cut stacks together.

• Once your design is finished, open the bags and glue the last two paper bags together. This last section really needs some good holding and pressure (at least 1020 seconds) to ensure the glue sticks.

• Punch or cut a hole in the top and pull a piece of twine (or fishing line, ribbon, etc.) through it to hang the star. You can use a small hook as an anchor, but since the stars are lightweight, even masking tape should work. And voilà!

TIPS AND VARIATIONS • Have your kids paint the sides of the paper bags or use

A festive way to reuse your grocery bags JULIETTE FRADIN PHOTOGRAPHY

markers to decorate them.

• Consider using other sizes, like regular lunch paper bags (use 7-8 bags) or even smaller bags (use a dozen). You can also find colored paper bags.

• Don’t compost stars made with hot gun glue, as the glue is not biodegradable. For bags made with

Elmer’s glue, compost away!

May your holidays be full of stars — and not of waste!

Juliette Fradin writes about ecofriendly living for the Life & Times.