Support small businesses this holiday, P.3
Olympic runner still dreams of gold, P.6
Tribute to Marcus Colbert, who died serving city
By ALAYSIA EZZARD
In January 2017, Marcus Colbert died in a tragic accident while serving as a sanitation worker with the Laurel Department of Public Works. Colbert, who was loading trash into the back of his
garbage truck, was struck by an SUV and died at the scene. He was 30.
His sister, Cynthia Colbert, the only girl of six siblings, was very close to Marcus. In October of this year she published her book, My Brother Marcus,
Homeless shelter seeks volunteers
By JOE MURCHISON
Organizers of the Laurel Winter Shelter program are looking for volunteers to support unhoused people on nights from Jan. 5 through March 31.
Phillip Ott is president of Taking Care of Our Neighbors, the nonprofit that runs the program. Ott noted that the shelter will be located in the city’s new Craig A. Moe Multiservice Center at 204 Fort Meade Road, next to Home Depot. Guests will be admitted at 7:30 p.m. every evening and will be required to check out by 8 a.m.
Ott said that the new location will significantly simplify volunteers’ responsibilities. For about three decades before the COVID-19 pandemic, the shelter rotated among more than a dozen congregations, with each hosting guests for a week. Cots and supplies had to be transported from one location to the next, and congregations set up sleeping rooms in their facilities and provided meals.
The Multiservice Center has one large room that can accommodate up to 20 men; a smaller room offers shelter for up to eight women. FISH of Laurel, which operates the Elizabeth House food kitchen, will use a large kitchen at the center to prepare meals for the guests.
Ott said three to five volunteers are needed each night: two to check in and oversee guests from 7:30 to 10 p.m., and three to stay from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. That adds up to 420 volunteer spots to fill.
So far, Ott confirmed that 15 congregations have stepped up to help, and some of those will provide enough volunteers to staff the shelter for one week. Individuals and congregations interested in vol-
an account of her life before and after her brother’s death. It is a journey through love and grief and explores how she moved on after the loss.
“I began writing the moment that I found out he passed away,” Colbert, 35, said in an interview.
CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
“Initially, when I wrote the book, it was more so emotional. It was more so me saying how hurt I am.”
As Cynthia Colbert matured, she realized she didn’t want the book to be only about her pain. She wanted to pay homage to
her brother because he was much more than simply someone who died.
“The time is right,” Cynthia Colbert said. “I just wanted to make sure that I put my all into it, because my brother has been
By KATIE V. JONES
Mary Gibson never thought she would see the day when the community of Bacontown, located on the Anne Arundel County side of Laurel, was recognized for its importance to the Black community.
Bacontown occupies some 30 acres
that were given to Mariah “Ma” Bacon by the Dorsey family in April 1860, after Bacon and her daughters were set free by Acksah Dorsey in February 1860. Gibson, a direct descendant of Bacon, is well-versed in the area’s history but knows others are not. That is about to change.
“I am just so proud, so proud,” Gib-
son said, after she and family members, along with other supporters and community leaders gathered on Dec. 2 to celebrate the installation of a signboard explaining the area’s history. The signboard sits in front of Henson House, which originally was the home of Bacon’s daughter Mary Eliz-
Laurel High School choir performs under the direction of choir director Kevin Lewis. See
FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Support hyperlocal Laurel news
By KIT SLACK
In an age of misinformation, polarization and digital distraction, your monthly newspaper, The Laurel Independent, brings you news you can trust about what’s happening in your city. Please give today to keep the hyperlocal news coming.
Now and through the end of the year, your single gift or new monthly contribution will be matched, up to $1,000, by News-
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Before I joined Streetcar’s staff, I assumed that if I wanted to find hard news about local gov-
Laurel Lakes residents ordered to vacate Jan.10
By KATIE V. JONES
On Nov. 21, residents of The Tiers of Laurel Lakes Condominiums learned that the city will order them to vacate their homes — 116 units — if repairs to the complex’s staircases are not completed by Jan. 10, 2025.
Mayor Keith Sydnor made the announcement during a meeting he chaired with city staff, the condominium’s homeowners association and residents. The standing-room-only meeting was held at the Joseph R. Robison Laurel Municipal Center.
In his opening remarks, Syndor informed attendees that, while the city had repeatedly tried to help improve conditions at the complex, the seriousness of the situation left the city no choice but to issue the order.
The mayor presented a timeline indicating that the condominiums have been attempting to deal with faulty staircases since December 2021, when an internal assessment indicated that 58 staircases needed to be repaired or replaced.
Since then, the city has worked with the development’s previ-
A community newspaper chronicling the people and events of Laurel, Maryland. Mailing address: PO Box 132, Hyattsville, MD 20781
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ous management company, and the homeowners association to improve the situation. In September 2023, the city secured $200,000 in funding through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. This grant helped residents pay off their late dues. The city also extended a number of deadlines for repairs. Sydnor noted that no work had been done on the stairs this fall.
“The decision to vacate was not made lightly,” Syndor said. He originally set Dec. 9 as the date to vacate but pushed it
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ernment, there were larger news organizations with full-time reporters providing it. Turns out there aren’t. To give the county context on a city issue, we have to do original reporting and research.
The Washington Post closed its local paper, the Prince George’s Gazette, in 2015, and only sporadically covers our area. Other historical county outlets have dwindled into online aggregators.
When we surveyed our readers in September, we learned you want more from us — more indepth city reporting, more county news and more curated listings of
local events. We want to bring you all of that in 2025; what we can do will depend, as it always has, on the generosity of our supporters. Please join the community of donors whose support connects and informs Laurel residents. Give today.
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Suburbs Publishing, which publishes the The Laurel Independent.
After Alsobrooks: Who runs the county, and for how long?
By KIT SLACK
On Dec. 2 and 3, Tara Jackson and Jolene Ivy assumed the top positions with Prince George’s County government, both by default. Both women now face uncertainty about how long they may continue in those positions.
back due to the holiday season.
A representative from PMI Village Alliance, the property management company that took over in October, as well as representatives from the condominiums new homeowners association, informed the crowd that they were working to undo past mismanagement of funds and had secured some funding to get some — but not all — repairs completed.
“Ultimately, we need money,” Ramona Williams, who owns PMI and manages the property, said. “Owners have to pay.”
Business Manager
Catie Currie
Executive Director Kit Slack
Board of Directors
President: Marta McLellan Ross
Vice President & General Counsel: Michael Walls
Treasurer: Joe Murchison
Secretary: Melanie Dzwonchyk
Bette Dickerson, Nora Eidelman, Joseph Gigliotti, Maxine Gross, Merrill Hartson, T. Carter Ross, Stephanie Stullich
Ex Officios: Katie V. Jones, Griffin Limerick, Sharon O’Malley, 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.
Former County Executive Angela Alsobrooks resigned on Dec. 2, and Jackson, the chief administrative officer, became the acting county executive.
Then, on Dec. 3, the county council failed to reach a majority to elect a council chair for the coming year.
As no candidate earned a majority of votes, Ivey (At-Large), who was unanimously elected as council chair in December 2023, claimed victory as the new chair for 2025. Councilmembers Thomas Dernoga (District 1) and Krystal Oriadha (District 7) interrupted Ivey’s prepared speech, with Dernoga saying he had a point of order.
Dernoga asked County Administrator Colette Gresham to confirm that Ivey had not been elected chair for 2025, and asked what the legal significance of the failure to elect a chair would be. Gresham said that she understood from the rules that Ivey would continue as chair until a successor was chosen.
Ivey said that a new chair could be elected at any time by eight votes of the 11-member council.
Oriadha said she thought only six votes would be required in this case. Gresham agreed with Oriadha, but wanted to consult with the county’s attorney, Aiesha Braveboy.
“Legally, she is holding over as a de facto officer until a successor is elected,” Dernoga said. “Having
said that, congratulations, Ms. Ivey; she’s our chair until otherwise said.”
Dernoga served as council chair for a year prior to Ivey’s term. Under Ivey’s leadership, the county council reversed a number of measures Dernoga had championed that were unfavorable to developers.
If Senator-elect Alsobrooks had waited until after Dec. 5 to resign as county executive, the process for picking a county council chair could have been even more contentious. If the county council was unable to appoint a new chair within two weeks, under county law, the incumbent council chair, not the chief administrative officer, would have become the interim county executive.
The divided county council must now decide the timing of special elections to fill the county executive seat and to elect a county council representative for District 5, which includes Colmar Manor, Bladensburg, Cheverly and Glenarden.
Ivey and Councilmember Calvin Hawkins, the council’s two at-large members, have each announced their intention to run for county executive, as has Braveboy. Jackson has said she will not run. Ivey, who previously represented District 5, was elected as an at-large councilmember, representing the whole county, in November 2024. She filled Councilmember Mel Franklin’s seat after he resigned.
The county council did succeed in selecting a vice chair on Dec. 3, with 6 votes in favor of Councilmember Ed Burroughs (District 8). He will serve as vice chair for 2025, succeeding Councilmember Sidney Harrison (District 9).
Kit Slack is the executive director of Streetcar
The city has condemned the stairways at The Tiers of Laurel Lakes Condominiums. KATIE V. JONES
Small businesses, the heart of Laurel
By KATIE V. JONES
For three years, Laurel’s Department of Economic and Community Development has sponsored a small business passport program to encourage people to shop local on Small Business Saturday. This year’s event was on Nov. 28.
The passport program, which had shoppers visiting businesses to get stamps to qualify for a prize, ended Dec. 6. The meaning of the initiative lives on.
“In my mind, small businesses provide flavor to a town,” Councilmember Adrian Simmoms (Ward 1) said during an interview on Nov. 28. Simmons was at the Quill Lot, where passports were being handed out. “You only find the small businesses in the town they are in. Go out there and patronize them.”
Heidi Furr, manager of Crystal Fox on Main Street, was thankful for the city’s small business passport program.
“It gets you to come out and support small businesses,” she said. “It brings the community together.”
Furr said she’d already stamped several passport books and had encouraged shoppers to visit other local businesses that were participating in the program.
Laurel resident Cassandra Quandt said she was happy to get her family out of the house to shop.
“I haven’t been here in a year or two,” she said, as she was leaving Crystal Fox.
“I came here in high school. It is a fun
little store.”
Small businesses, “keep the world running” and provide a “hometown feeling,” according to Cindy Senter, who owns Main Street’s The Chamber Room with her husband, Paul Clites.
“I like my customers, every single one of them. They’re good people,” Senter said. She’s been managing her gift store, which is filled with swords, figurines, dreamcatchers and more, for 24 years.
“We’re a ‘want’ thing. When you want something, you come here,” Senter, who is known for offering customers homemade cookies while they shop, said. “We will work very hard to find what you are looking for.”
But she admitted business can be challenging.
“It’s tough. There’s not a lot of foot traffic,” she said. “You have to be established. People who know you and love you. Word of mouth is phenomenal.”
While Gladley’s Candy Kitchen has been making candy on Main Street for several years, its focus had only been online sales. It recently reopened a small retail store. According to owner Chuck Begin, small businesses like his offer a personalized experience.
“Everything is made here,” Begin said, of his homemade caramels, cookies and chocolate confections. “I have a very loyal customer base.”
“The heartbeat of the city is small businesses,” Monta Burrough, the city’s economic and community development director, said as he greeted people at the Quill Lot on Nov. 28. “We want to emphasize how important they are.”
Monta Burrough, the city’s economic and community development director, at the Quill Lot on Small Business Saturday. KATIE V. JONES
to Marcus and kissed him.
Cynthia Colbert found her love of writing while attending Laurel Elementary School;
back then, she primarily journaled or wrote poetry whenever she was feeling upset. Before publishing My Brother Marcus, she published her poetry, which is her favorite genre. The book about her brother is her first published work that tells a story.
In the book, Cynthia Colbert recounts the moment when she and her family were allowed to see Marcus’ body. Her mom sang
“The song that I did sing to him on the day that we did go see him was ‘Soon and Very Soon,’”
Shirley Colbert, Cynthia’s mom, said. “Even when we went to view his body, I felt although he wasn’t with us in the flesh, he was with us in the spirit … I went to kiss him to let him know that I loved him.”
Cynthia Colbert was in shock when she viewed her brother’s
body. She did not touch him because she didn’t want to potentially destroy forensic evidence. Instead, she stood there hoping that Marcus would wake up.
positivity — everything that my brother represented.”
“I had never known him to not be okay. But that day he wasn’t. He wasn’t okay. As we left the hospital, it hit me that our brother was truly gone. It was a pill too big to swallow,” she wrote in the book.
Colbert said that her brother enjoyed anime, sports and gaming. He also cared for others, especially his family.
The city has honored Marcus Colbert in a number of ways. An outstanding citizenship award was named after him, and in October 2023, an athletic field on Overlook Way was renamed as the Marcus Colbert Community Field.
“Marcus always made lemonade from lemons — and he’d give that lemonade to us, his brothers and sister, before he’d even think of himself,” she wrote in the book. “That’s the kind of person Marcus was, and still is in spirit. He left behind a legacy that inspires me and everyone who knew him to be better, to improve ourselves in any way we can.”
Marcus Colbert’s faith in God also defined him.
future with comprehensive a significant impact in my life, so I wanted to make sure it was something that he would be proud of, if he was able to read it, and also something that my family would be proud of” — and that she would be proud of.
In the book, Colbert writes she would have preferred that charges be brought against the woman who crashed into him, and “apply accountability where it is due.”
My Brother Marcus is Cynthia Colbert’s first book exploring loss. She hopes it will be the last she writes, though the impact of his death will last.
The smallest details make the biggest difference. The smallest details make the biggest difference.
Despite that, she is still very grateful for the honors that her brother received.
Shirley Colbert said the “hurt is still there,” though the tragedy happened seven years ago. She is thankful that her son’s story has found its way into publication.
“I know Marcus would have been overjoyed to have something named after him,” she wrote in the book. “It’s a special honor, no matter who you are. I hope that people who visit the area will bring happiness, peace, humor, thoughtfulness and
“Thank you for reaching out to me and my daughter,” said Shirley Colbert in an interview. “I’m just thankful that somebody is still listening. That speaks volumes in itself.”
So your plant died, now what?
By JIMMY ROGERS
Newcomers to native gardening often feel shame watching something they planted die — but those moments could be learning opportunities, instead. In nature, individual plants attempt to pioneer new areas and, if they’re successful, create new communities in the form of meadows, thickets and even forests. Most pioneers do not persist, though, either due to conditions or competition from other plants. If a plant doesn’t thrive in your garden, it’s an important lesson about your land.
When trying to determine why something died, let this maxim guide you: right plant, right place. Review the instructions from the nursery regarding sun, moisture and soil texture. (If the nursery didn’t provide any information, you can find most Maryland native plants at nativeplantcenter. net, which draws data from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.) If your planting site is much wet-
When trying to determine why something died, let this maxim guide you: right plant, right place.
ter or drier than is indicated for the plant, that’s often the reason it didn’t thrive. Similarly, a shadeloving plant may have burned up in too much sun, or a sun-loving plant may have withered in the shade. Native plants can often adapt to conditions a little outside of their ideal, but extreme mismatches will shorten their lives.
You can also double check your initial assessment of the site itself. If the plot was moist on the day you planted but grew dry throughout the summer’s heat,
you might reclassify it as a dry site. Similarly, if the ground holds onto water for a long time after a rainstorm, that means it’s a wet site.
If the conditions seem to match the indicated needs of the plant, but it’s still not doing well, look at the rest of the plants in the same area. Are you having a hard time growing anything there, or just this species? Does it seem like a dead zone? You could have a nutrient imbalance or pollution in the soil. Your soil may also have an unusually high or low pH, which can stress out some plants.
Consider having your soil tested by a soil laboratory; the University of Maryland Extension has an excellent page with a list of testing laboratories and a helpful instructional video (tinyurl.com/ yfr6fhdr). Soil tests cost between $10 and $30 and will include advice on how to amend your soil if an issue is detected.
After thoroughly reviewing the site conditions, you can begin exploring more subtle nuances that contribute to plant success.
While the nursery industry has tried to define planting sites with a few descriptors, the reality is more complex. For instance, I planted a wide variety of native plants along the side of my house the year I moved in, and I was surprised by which plants flourished and which disappeared. The sun strikes one corner of the bed harshly where the downspout lets out, so it imitates the sunny, wet habitat of a lake edge or floodplain; this makes my native hibiscus (Hibiscus moscheutos) very happy. However, sneezeweed (Helenium flexuosum), which tends to like the same conditions, disappeared after having a successful first year.
I have subsequently seen both species in the wild, but never together, so I suspect they have subtly different needs, and that particular spot in my garden served one better than the other.
This bed along my house continues to surprise me, as some plants grow and spread while others eventually disappear. Initially I worried about the missing
plants, as I often went to great lengths to find a particular species. I’ve come to see that they weren’t a good fit for that site or its developing plant community. The downspout bed has stabilized into a coherent collection of plants that grow densely and bloom successively.
If a particular native plant continues to confound you, reach out to a neighbor who grows it successfully and visit their garden. You’ll be able to observe the conditions where it thrives, and if your neighbor’s willing, you can divide their plants and bring some of their successful variety to your own beds. Your neighbor may even have a lot to share, so you can experiment with multiple plants in multiple places. Ultimately, a native garden is like a conversation between you and your land. The more time you spend talking together, the better you will understand each other.
Jimmy Rogers is an avid native gardener in the city of Laurel.
Laurel resident dreams of Olympic gold
By ALINE BEHAR KADO
Laurel resident Isabella Whittaker was scheduled to run in the women’s 4x400-meter track race at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The morning of the competition, another runner was tagged to run in her place.
“A dream was just ripped away for me,” Whittaker, 22, said. “So obviously I was … really emotional.”
Whittaker still went to the race as an alternate in the U.S. Women’s relay pool.
“I was just like, stare at the track,” she said. “The really vivid moment where I was staring at this track, and I’ll never be able to run on it,”
But Whittaker is still dreaming big.
“I think, honestly, the unfortunate reality that was my first Olympic experience [is] definitely fueling me for more Olympic experiences because I just, I don’t count that.”
After years of competitive swimming, Whittaker started running in high school. She felt naturally drawn to it, she said, as everyone in her family runs.
“I think, honestly, the unfortunate reality that was my first Olympic experience [is] definitely fueling me for more Olympic experiences because I just, I don’t count that.”
Isabella
Whittaker who was scheduled to run in the women’s 4x400-meter track race at the 2024 Paris Olympics
Her father, Paul Whittaker, ran the 800 meters, and her mother, Jill Pellicoro, ran the 400-meter hurdles at Georgetown University. Her brother, Alex, ran track and cross country at Yale, and her sister, Juliette, is on the track team at Stanford. Juliette also ran at the Olympics.
“I honestly think that it was a really good thing when I started
as late as I did, just because I really loved it,” Whittaker said. “I’m still really passionate about it. I still do it because I love it.”
Following an impressive freshman year on the track team at the University of Pennsylvania, Whittaker suffered a back injury that left her on the sidelines. It did not stop her from dreaming of victory.
“I remember being out that indoor season my sophomore year, and I remember thinking, like, I was looking at the Ivy League record book, and I was like, ‘bruh, … I should be running these times, when I get the opportunity to run again, I will break the Ivy League records,’” Whittaker said.
She went on to break five Ivy League all-meet records, including two that had stood since 1990. After she broke her own personal record her senior year, Whittaker knew her Olympic dream was within reach. She then placed sixth at the Women’s 400-meter Olympic trial in June.
“It was always kind of a dream of mine ... to make the team at swimming, which is funny, because obviously that didn’t happen,” Whittaker joked. Instead, she made the relay pool for women’s track.
Chené Townsend, associate women’s head coach at the University of Pennsylvania, reflected on Whittaker’s accomplishments.
“I think, as a coach, we all have big dreams and big goals, and when you work at this level, you know the Olympic Games is the highest level of competing. … seeing someone that I’ve worked with for the past four years at that point, be at the world, global stage, at the highest pinnacle for track and field,” she said. “It was really a surreal moment for me personally.“
Whittaker and her sister were roommates in the Olympic Village. Juliette placed seventh in the women’s 800-meter. The sisters went to the 4x400 meter race together.
“We just kind of sat there, and it was just nice to have her there because I probably would have been a mess if I had to kind of go and put on a face for that very difficult day, that was, that was terrible,” Whittaker said.
Some of Whittaker’s family attended the race, too. Whittaker recalled seeing them cry with her.
“Everyone’s crying, and I’m like, damn,” Whittaker said. “That’s,
like, very powerful to me, because … when I hurt, they hurt. And so that’s like, everything to me.”
“I told myself that … the next Olympic year, like, I’m going to make sure that it’s not a question of, like, having me run,” Whittaker said.
In an interview, Townsend echoed Whittaker’s aim.
“I do think that she has the talent to be a multiple-time Olympian, for sure,” Townsend said. “And you know, I’ll support her in whatever way that I can or in whatever way she allows me to.”
Under National Collegiate Athletic Association regulations, Whittaker is eligible to compete for a university scholarship for one more year. She has transferred to the University of Arkansas, where she will compete on the women’s track and field team while she pursues a master’s degree in marketing.
“I would just encourage someone to always, always remember that you’re there for a reason,” Whittaker said. “Obviously, I qualified for the team. I was still picked for the team. Understand that it took a lot to get there, and that you’re there for a reason.”
VOL.
3,
M ESSAGE FROM MAYOR KEITH R. SYDNOR
NO. 12 DECEMBER 2024
The holidays are fast approaching, bringing cold weather and plenty of cheer! Check the City’s events calendar to find activities that will keep you busy and warm with events all around the City of Laurel.
I’m proud to share that on November 7, 2024, at the Maryland Municipal League Fall Conference, the City of Laurel was honored at the Sustainable Maryland Awards Ceremony with Silver -level certification. This achievement, earned by completing sustainability-related actions worth 400+ points, reflects the hard work of our Green Team -comprising of residents, community leaders, staff, and officials, and our community partners. Together, we’re paving the way for a greener future!
As the season changes, don’t forget to prepare for winter weather. Visit our website for tips and resources to ensure you, your family, and your property are ready for the snow and cold. Happy Holidays to you and your family!
MARYLAND SECRETARY O F THE ENVIRONMENT VISITS LAUREL!
The City of Laurel was recently graced with a visit from Maryland Secretary of the Environment, Serena McIlwain, and her team after a year’s worth of conversations with Sustainable Manager, Michele Blair!
On November 21, 2024, elected officials and City staff gathered inside the Laurel Municipal Center in anticipation of the Secretary's arrival, which just happened to coincide with the City of Laurel receiving a Silver-level designation from Sustainable Maryland at the MML Fall Conference earlier this month.
Secretary McIlwain entered the Chambers with a radiant smile, greeted by a gathering of City Officials, employees, and committee members, along with pictorial storyboards that illustrated Laurel’s sustainable journey over the years.
Mayor Keith R. Sydnor and City Administrator Christian Pulley welcomed Secretary McIlwain and once seated, Sustainable Manager Michele Blair expressed gratitude to Secretary McIlwain for visiting Laurel to witness the innovative ideas being implemented to maintain Laurel’s green and sustainable future.
She then introduced Mayor Sydnor, who thanked the Secretary for acknowledging
Laurel's commitment to the environment. Mayor Sydnor stated, “As Mayor, I can now empower City staff to enact legislation, create community outreach programs, and excel at leading us into the next phase of our evolving, sustainable community.”
Following Mayor Sydnor’s remarks, he invited Secretary McIlwain to the podium. She noted that Laurel is often mentioned in her discussions about the environment, highlighting the City’s leadership. She remarked, “When cities like yours step up and start thinking creatively and innovatively, using your ingenuity to find ways to make it happen...you all are setting the example for Maryland.”
After her supportive comments, Ms. Blair and Mayor Sydnor took Secretary McIlwain on a pictorial journey around the chambers to showcase Laurel’s sustainable achievements and future initiatives.
The highlight of the morning? Parks and Recreation Director Bill Bailey demonstrated Laurel's electric lawn maintenance equipment. Secretary McIlwain was so impressed by the use of electric power that she hopped onto the electric riding mower and took it for a spin!
A heartfelt thank you to Secretary McIlwain for her encouraging words, and we look forward to a strong partnership with Maryland to ensure a healthy environment!
The City of Laurel proudly celebrates the Laurel Citizens University (LCU) Graduating Class of 2024! Beginning on October 3, 2024, 19 residents dedicated eight Thursday evenings to engage with each City Department, gaining insights into their functions and the services they offer to the Laurel community. This journey culminated at the Mayor and City Council meeting on November 25th, where each graduate received a plaque in recognition of their achievement. Several alumni have already stepped up to volunteer, and one has been appointed by Mayor Sydnor to the Planning Commission! Thanks to their involvement and valuable suggestions, we anticipate a promising and ongoing partnership with our community, and we are excited to see where their newfound knowledge leads them in future endeavors! Congratulations LCU Graduates!
GREEN HAPPENINGS IN LAUREL!
Sustainability Plan Launch Party!
The Sustainability Plan is in its final organizational stages and the City of Laurel is excited to have you join us for its launch next year! Details in the graphic and date and location below. See you then!
WHEN: January 30, 2025, 6:00pm WHERE: Joseph R. Robison
Laurel Municipal Center, Council Chambers
8103 Sandy Spring Road
Organics Recycling!!! Public Works crews will continue to deliver composting carts to select neighborhoods throughout the City. Residents can expect to receive: a kitchen countertop container; educational information; a refrigerator magnet; and a roll of compostable bags, along with the locking outdoor cart! The information provided makes it easy for residents to sort out what can go into their compost carts, it ’s that easy! All foods, even expired products, paper napkins/paper towels and pizza boxes are just some examples of what can be put in your composting cart. Remember – loose leaves and grass clippings are also acceptable in your curbside compost cart. Don’t want to wait?! Sign up using the online form at cityoflaurel.org/composting and Public Works will deliver a full kit to your home. We want to improve the program and get feedback from residents on what they would like to see, so please send an e -mail to greenliving@laurel.md.us. Based on your feedback, we now have smaller kitchen countertop containers and are introducing a smaller curbside cart!
Want to get the most recent information about the City’s sustainability initiatives? Follow us on Facebook at @SustainableLaurel. This is a place where we can share ideas, highlight upcoming events and residents can stay informed on all things Sustainable Also check out the new look of the Green Living web page at www.cityoflaurel.org/greenliving!
Newly Approved Property Tax Credit!
Recently the City of Laurel City Council passed legislation aimed at improving community support and governance.
A newly approved Property Tax Credit for Prince George’s County School Employees will provide financial relief to educators and school staff residing within the City limits. This initiative underscores the City’s commitment to supporting those who play a critical role in shaping the future of local students.
Additionally, the Council has completed a rewrite of the Council Standing Rules. The updated rules aim to enhance efficiency, transparency, and collaboration in legislative processes, ensuring smoother governance and better communication with residents. These initiatives reflect the Council’s ongoing efforts to address community needs and strengthen Laurel’s civic framework. ¡Crédito fiscal sobre la propiedad aprobado recientemente!
Recientemente, el Ayuntamiento de la ciudad de Laurel aprobó una ley destinada a mejorar el apoyo y la gobernanza de la comunidad. Un crédito fiscal a la propiedad recientemente aprobado para los empleados de las escuelas del condado de Prince George proporcionará un alivio financiero a los educadores y al personal escolar que residen dentro de los límites de la ciudad. Esta iniciativa subraya el compromiso de la ciudad de apoyar a quienes desempeñan un papel fundamental en la formación del futuro de los estudiantes locales.
LAUREL POLICE MONTHLY CRIME REPORT
OCTOBER 2024
List of Laurel Police Crime Reports can be found at www.cityoflaurel.org/LPD -Crime-Reports.
Legislation
Listed below are recent actions taken by the Laurel City Council. For further information on any of these actions, please feel free to contact the Office of the City Clerk at 301-725-5300 x2120 or at clerk@laurel.md.us. For the full agendas, visit www.cityoflaurel.org
Adopted Legislation:
• Ordinance No. 2035 - amending the General Operating Budget and Capital Improvement Program for FY July 1, 2024 - June 30, 2025 and to provide an effective date.
• Resolution No. 4-2024 - to approve the rewrite of the Council Standing Rules.
Closed Sessions:
• Adjournment to Closed Session on Nov. 13th under the Open Meetings Act Provisions
Section 3-305 (b)(7) to consult with counsel to obtain legal advice regarding Property Standards and Section 3-305 (b)(13) to comply with specific constitutional, statutory or judiciary imposed requirement that prevents public disclosures about a particular matter or proceeding or matter.
• Adjournment to Closed Session on Nov. 25th under the Open Meetings Act Provisions
Section 3-305 (b)(3) to consider the acquisition of real property for a public purpose and matters directly related thereto in order to protect the Mayor and City Council’s bargaining power and Section 3-305(b)(7) to consult with counsel to obtain legal advice regarding the potential purchase of real property.
Bid Recommendations:
• Municipal Phone System Upgrade - Department of Information Technology
Purchase Requisitions/Fleet Acquisitions:
• Curbside Composting Supplies - Sustainability Management
• Emergency Bearcat Vehicle - Laurel Police Department
• TYMCO 435 Street Sweeper - Public Works
• Street Crack Sealer - Public Works Appointments/Reappointments:
Tiara Matthews - Education Advisory Committee (11/25/24 - 11/25/26).
Rubama Patwary - Laurel Arts Council (11/25/2411/25/26)
Roy Smith, II - Planning Commission (11/25/2024 - 11/25/2029)
Election of Council President & President Pro-tem
Council member Kyla Clark - President
Council member Jeffrey Mills - President Pro-tem
In 2025, Let’s Make Volunteerism Thrive!
Jump onboard the Volunteer Train in 2025 and go online to fill out the volunteer application today at www.cityoflaurel.org/volunteering or scan the QRCode above! Check out the list of volunteering options on our web site, and get a front-row seat to the City of Laurel volunteering extravaganza!
(Dates and Times Subject to Change)
December 2024 Mayor and City Council Meetings
December 9th - Virtual Mayor and City Council Meeting (6pm)
December 23rd - In-Person Mayor and City Council Meeting (CANCELLED)
December 2024 Boards and Commissions
December 10th - In-Person Planning Commission (6pm)
December 17th - Virtual Historic District Commission (6pm)
December 19th - In-Person Board of Appeals (6pm)
January 2025 Mayor and City Council Meetings
January 8th - Virtual Mayor and City Council Work Session (6pm)
January 13th - Virtual Mayor and City Council Meeting (6pm)
January 27th - In-Person Mayor and City Council Meeting (6pm)
January 2025 Boards and Commissions
January 14th - Planning Commission (6pm)
January 21st - Historic District Commission (6pm)
January 23rd - Board of Appeals (6pm)
January 28th - Master Plan Committee (6pm)
(Dates and Times Subject to Change)
Employee Holiday Party - December 13th - City/Passport Offices Close at 1:00pm. Please plan your business with the City accordingly.
Photos with Santa - December 23rd - 4 - 5:30pm at Partnership Activity Center, 811 5th Street. Free event co-sponsored by LARS.
Holiday Free Indoor Movie - December 23rd - 6:00pm at Partnership Activity Center, 811 5th Street, “The Grinch”
Christmas Holiday - December 25th - City/Passport Offices Closed. Trash/ Recycling/Composting Collections will be adjusted that week. Visit, www.cityoflaurel.org for details.
New Year Day Holiday - January 1, 2025 - City/Passport Offices Closed. Trash/Recycling/Composting Collections will be adjusted that week. Visit, www.cityoflaurel.org for details.
Christmas Tree Collections starting January 8, 2025 - Remove all decorations and place trees where you normally place refuse (DO NOT put in plastic tree bag). Recommended you call Public Works at 301-725-0088 for collection so trees won’t be missed.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday and Day of Service - January 20, 2025 - City/Passport Offices Closed. Visit www.cityoflaurel.org for details. And keep checking our web site and social media for details about this year ’s Dr. King Day of Service event! Details Coming Soon!
Free Indoor Friday Flick - January 24, 2025 - 7:00pm at Partnership Activity Center, 811 5th Street. “Paw Patrol Movie”
Teen and Adult Trips and Classes - If you have a teen between the ages of 13 and 18 or are an adult over 18 years of age, check out the Parks and Recreation Winter Brochure! Visit www.cityoflaurel.org/159/Parks -and-Recreation for details!
Senior Services Trips and Events - Laurel Senior Services has great trips and local events for our 55 and over group. Call 301-776-6168 for details. Page 3
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Please send notices of events taking place between Jan. 11 and Feb. 10 to nancy@streetcarsuburbs. news by Jan. 3.
DEC. 10
Chess Club. Teens 13 to 18 and adults. Free. 6 to 7 p.m. Laurel Branch Library, 507 7th St. 240.455.5451
DEC. 12 and 21
Guided HouseTours. Montpelier staff share stories and insights during the tours. Free. 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Montpelier House Museum, 9650 Muirkirk Rd. 301.377.7817
DEC. 13 and 27
Coffee and Conversation. Community-led discussion focusing on current events. Free, light refreshments. 10 to 11 a.m. Laurel Branch Library, 507 7th St. 240.455.5451
DEC. 17
Knit and Crochet Your Evening Away. Bring your own materials and projects and join the Laurel Branch Library’s Seventh Street Ravelutionaries crocheting and knitting group. Free, all ages welcome. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. 507 7th St. 240.455.5451
DEC. 21
Discover Dinosaurs. Look for fossilized bones at Dinosaur Park. Free. Noon to 4 p.m. Dinosaur Park, 13100 Mid Atlantic Blvd. 301.626.1286
JAN. 3
Whooping Crane Recovery
Efforts at Patuxent Wildlife Research Refuge. Event is part of Patuxent’s film and speaker series. Free. 5 p.m. National Wildlife Visitor Center, 10908 Scarlet Tanager Loop. For more information, go to
tinyurl.com/2p899mvt or call 301.497.5772
ONGOING
December at the Hollingsworth Gallery. Photos of Sam Droege, wildlife biologist with the Eastern Ecological Science Center/USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab.
Ultra-high-resolution images of the Mid-Atlantic region’s native wild bees. Patuxent Research Refuge South Tract, 10901 Scarlet Tanager Loop. 301.497.5772
Awkward Family Photos. A traveling exhibit of family photos. Through Dec. 22. Laurel History Museum, 817 Main St. 301.725.7975
RECURRING
Family Fun at Patuxent. Learn about winter weather and the water cycle through hands-on activities, games and crafts. Ages 3 and up. 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday for drop-in/independent exploration. Staffed from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jan. 17 and 18. Patuxent Research Refuge South Tract, 10901 Scarlet Tanager Loop.
“Wingspan” Game Day. Play the board game “Wingspan” and learn about birds. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 13 and Jan. 10. No experience needed. Games provided (personal sets welcomed). Patuxent Research Refuge South Tract, 10901 Scarlet Tanager Loop. Registration required. To register, go to tinyurl.com/5n8thbe2 or call 301.497.5772
Italian Club welcomes all on the second Wednesday of each month. 6:30 p,m, St. Mary of the Mills Church, 114 St. Marys Pl. For more information, call Jo Saunders at 301.490.8237
Chess. All levels welcome. Thursdays. 2 p.m. Laurel-Beltsville Senior Activity Center, 7120 Contee Rd. For more information, call Mike Farmer at 240.302.9133
Every Tuesday Bingo at Laurel Elks Lodge #2283 Twenty games with cash prizes; food and drinks available for purchase. Doors open at 5 p.m. and bingo starts at 7 p.m. 8261 Brock Bridge Rd.
Every Tuesday Bingo. Hosted by the Laurel Senior Friendship Club. Free admission; fee for cards. Doors open at 11 a.m. and bingo starts at noon. Laurel-Beltsville Senior Activities Center, 7120 Contee Rd. 301.206.3380
Every Friday Bingo at American Legion Post 60. Friday night bingo every week; 23 games with cash prizes; food and drinks available for purchase. Doors open at 5 p.m. and bingo starts at 7:30. 2 Main St. 301.725.2302
Friday Food Festival. American Legion Post 60 hosts Friday dinners, with Canteen 60 serving on the first and third Friday of the month and P&G Catering on the second and fourth. 5:30 to 8 p.m. 2 Main St. 301.725.2302
Laurel Senior Friendship Club. Meets the second Wednesday of each month; program includes a business meeting and musical entertainment or a speaker. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. LaurelBeltsville Senior Activities Center, 7120 Contee Rd. 301.206.3380
HOLIDAY EVENTS
DEC. 13 and 14
Holiday Tea. A seasonal afternoon tea in the East Wing of Montpelier House. Cost and times vary. 9650 Muirkirk Rd. 301.377.7817
DEC. 14
A Charlie Brown Christmas. The Eric Byrd Trio performs selections from the Peanuts’ special. $15. 4 p.m. Montpelier Arts Center, 9652 Muirkirk Rd. 301.377.7800
DEC. 15
Kwanzaa Essentials. Storyteller Baba-C will give a preview of the week-long celebration of African American culture and the seven principles that define it through a ceremony, live music and stories. Free. 2 p.m. Montpelier Arts Center, 9652 Muirkirk Rd. 301.377.7800
DEC. 16
Wreaths Across America. Meet at Joseph R. Robison Laurel Municipal Center and walk to Ivy Hill Cemetery to place wreaths on the graves of veterans. 11 a.m. 301.725.5300
DEC. 22
Holiday Concert. Walt Michael & Co. perform seasonal Appalachian music. $28. 3 p.m. Carroll Baldwin Hall, 9035 Baltimore St., Savage.
DEC. 23
Holiday Movie: “The Grinch.” Floor seating or bring your own chair. Snacks available for purchase. Free. 6 p.m. Partnership Hall, 811 Fifth St. 301.725.7800
DEC. 31
Noon Year’s Eve. Children can ring in the new year with stories, dancing and a special countdown. Presented by Savage Branch of Howard County Library. 11:30 a.m. Carroll Baldwin Hall, 9035 Baltimore St., Savage.
ONGOING
“A Christmas Carol.” Laurel Mill Playhouse presents a highly inventive adaptation of the classic Dickens story the weekends of Dec. 13 and 20, times vary. Tickets $15-$20. 509 Main St. Go to tinyurl.com/yvsw8pdp or call 301.617.9906
Santa Heim, Merryland: A Savage Christmas Story. An exhibition from the years 1948 to 1951 when Savage Mill and the town of Savage were transformed into a year-round Christmas village. Lunchtime talks and walking tours available. Through Jan. 10, 2025. Historic Savage Mill, 8600 Foundry St., Savage. 410.792.2820
THE LAUREL INNER SPACE
Our Christmas tree’s rich family history
By AGNES PASCO CONATY
My heart is full of joy as I write my column during this Thanksgiving week. The coming winter holidays bring back great memories of family celebrations in the Philippines, where they celebrate the longest Christmas season in the world — Filipinos start decorating for Christmas as early as September! My family celebrates many of our Philippine traditions here at home in West Laurel. As Dec. 25 draws near, I would like to share with you an updated version of the story I wrote during the pandemic about our Christmas tree. (The original is in our family’s book, Wicker Baskets.)
TINSELS AND TASSELS
Our Christmas tree spends most of its time in the garage attic of our home in West Laurel, a cold, dark place with all the dust of cramped space and time. But for the last three weeks of December, the tree takes center stage in our living room, bearing a huge collection of tiny trinkets, sparkling with glitters, and dainty little ornaments that hold stories of their own. I find myself imagining that these delicate baubles speak in
hushed voices, telling their adventures to each other in the dark stillness of the night.
This humble tree itself is not spectacular. My husband, Austin, got it for his tree trimming party a few days before leaving for our lovely wedding in the Philippines, in 1999. It was still standing, fully decorated, when we came back the next month, and its spark and color were the warm hearth of my first January in Maryland.
I remember the enormous Victorian decoupaged balls, eight of them, with their matching hexagonal box. Then there were four stoic nutcrackers, collectibles from a few venerable Washington sites.
Every year, family and friends would give us a few more treasures, mostly handmade, featuring endearing photos of smiling nieces and nephews, treasures made out of popsicle sticks and pom poms.
When our son Joseph was born five years after we were married, friends gave us baby-themed ornaments, memorable pieces we held dear with each passing year and every milestone our little boy would reach. Our tree lost a few of its plastic limbs and shed some needles during our move from Greenbelt to Laurel, in 2007,
when Joseph was 2 years old. Soon enough, Joseph would create his own masterpieces: a finger painting from kindergarten, a framed photo of Santa he made in third grade, a wooden nativity scene he colored with his tiny hands. Every year, he would add one or two prized trinkets, putting his creativity to work with his boyish charm and cheer.
In Christmas 2020, the three of us put up our tree with the eagerness of a family cooped up for 10 months during the first leg of what turned out to be a long pandemic. The tree’s towering stature, leaning a bit to one side, all but reached for the stars!
With carols playing full blast on the radio, we created a happy mood to bathe our spirits and drown out all the world’s anxieties. Hurry, strum the ukulele that Koyang Reden gave us — strum a joyful “Feliz Navidad” to drive the gloom away! Quick, hang the lantern from Pampanga (our province in the Philippines), with its multicolored shell star reminding us of cathedral windows twinkling like a drum beat.
My oldest brother, Koyang Nol, lovingly gave us that lantern, which we call a “parol” in Tagalog. It guards the Baby Jesus, a beautifully carved wooden trea-
sure I inherited from my mom, Ima, on our last visit to the Philippines. The beloved memento largely survived suitcase damage and graces not only our Christmases but our daily rosaries, as well.
Outside, in the cold afternoon, five odd wreaths heralded a festive atmosphere, echoing the joyous emotions we felt in our hearts. The gifts, the gifts! With all excitement, I made a mental count of the nieces and nephews, our family Christmas cards, the gift cards and bags with all the amazing presents hidden under festive tissues. And downstairs, by the fireplace, hung three huge stockings embroidered with motifs of toys along with our names lovingly embossed by Ima.
On Christmas Eve, we let our tree glitter for hours as we feverishly slaved over the stove, preparing “nilaga,” a Filipino soup with beef, pork, chicken and vegetables, which my maternal grandfather, Lolo Julian, was famous for. We were also cooking our family’s traditional dishes of chicken, beef chorizo, cabbage and potatoes, whose aroma wafted through the magic of the season.
During one of our recent daily calls back to the Philippines, Ima reminisced about Christmases past, when Lolo picked her up from the Philippine Women’s
University, where she was a graduate student. She recalled going with him to buy the prized pork leg and ham for his nilaga. En route to the bus station for their trip home, they would stop by a Manila marketplace to buy “queso de bola,” a type of cheese that is baked inside “pandesal,” a traditional Christmas bread. They’d also buy “tsokolate batirol,” a rich chocolate drink Filipinos traditionally enjoy on Christmas Day. My mother’s familiar stories fill me with fuzzy, warm, nostalgic feelings to this day.
Through the years, our ornament collection keeps growing, several boxes full in all, too many individual treasures to count — and each ornament bears fond memories for all of us. As we unwrap them and recall past Christmases with glee, we learn to appreciate the often overlooked little things, like the quiet grace of the glittery snowflake ornaments on our tree on Christmas morn.
Agnes Pasco Conaty is a college math and environmental science adjunct professor who also works as senior research scientist and science lead for the GLOBE Observer Program at NASA/ Goddard Space Flight Center.
Updates from Nov. 25 Mayor and City Council meeting
Laurel Police Chief Russell Hamill advised the city council of several issues to be aware of during the holiday season during the Mayor and City Council meeting on Nov. 25.
Hammill said that now, through New Year’s, is “the worst time for alcohol-involved collisions throughout our country.”
The department has been involved in two separate accidents, he said, one a head-on
collision involving a suspect that was allegedly intoxicated and another with a driver who was apparently not paying attention. While one police cruiser was destroyed, everyone was OK. He noted that the
department will be particularly focused on enforcement during the winter holidays.
“People, please start paying attention to your driving,” Hamill said. “If you strike a child and hurt them, if you strike somebody else and hurt them or kill them, you are going to live with that the rest of your life, and that’s a difficult thing to live with.”
Hamill also noted that people should be cautious about their surroundings when using ATM machines.
“If you see something suspicious, listen to that inner voice. Don’t put yourself in harm’s way,” he said. “You will never bother us, calling us about concerns you have in the community.”
And with the current uptick in vehicle break-ins, Hamill reminded citizens to lock their cars and remove any valuables.
“Report suspicious behaviour,” he said. “Call us; don’t email us. We don’t police via email or text. Call the department. We will get officers out
there immediately.”
The department has anticrime initiatives in place for the holiday season, Hamill noted, with both uniform and plainclothes officers participating.
“We will be out there in force and with help from the community, we will get through the holidays safely,” he said.
During the meeting, Councilmember Kyla Clark (Ward 2) was elected council president and Councilmember Jeffrey Mills (Ward 2) was elected president pro tem.
“Thank you to my council members, my colleagues, for voting me in,” Clark said. “I appreciate your support. Thank you.”
In recognition of Councilmember James Kole’s (Ward 1) service as president from 2023 to 2024, the council presented him with a plaque featuring a gavel.
“I am here to help with whatever questions you have,” Kole said. “I am not going anywhere.”
— Katie V. Jones
HOLIDAY
SEASON IN FULL SWING
Santa Claus arrived at Towne Centre at Laurel on Nov. 23, right on time for the tree lighting celebration. The festive event featured ice sculpting, holiday games, crafts, free hot chocolate and a performance by Laurel High School’s (LHS) choir. Mayor Keith Sydnor and Councilmembers James Kole (Ward 1) and Kyla Clark (Ward 2) also participated in the festivities.
“We hear a lot of negative things in the
press and see a lot of negativity in the world, and the holidays [are] the time to bring people together, ” LHS choir director Kevin Lewis said, adding that the event was “a really nice endeavor.”
“Seeing your family and friends getting to watch you sing for them, it’s really fun,” choir member Grace Rivera, 17, said. In addition to performing, members of the choir also collected nonperishable goods for their food drive.
-Aiesha Solomon
LARS Race Against Hunger a success
It was cold, gray and rainy, yet that didn’t stop 600-plus runners from turning out Thanksgiving morning to participate in Laurel Advocacy and Referral Services (LARS) 20th Annual Race Against Hunger 5K. “It was a good time,” Shannon Mouton, LARS executive director, said. “The cold and rain brought everybody together.
We were all cold and wet. It worked.”
Sheehy Toyota of Laurel was this year’s lead sponsor of the event.
“The mayor was here. The city council was here. Tom Dernoga was here,” Mouton said.
“We were all excited to have famous folks in the house.” She noted that the race raised about $120,000 for LARS’ food pantry
Jim Whitney Toastmasters Club. Meets the second and fourth Monday of each month.
7 p.m. St. Phillips Episcopal Church, 522 Main St. For more information, email contact-1063187@ toastmastersclubs.org
Beltsville Young at Heart Meets the third Thursday of each month; entertainment, speakers, trips. Ages 55 and up. 10:30 a.m. Beltsville Community Center, 3900 Sellman Rd., Beltsville 301.498.9736
noon. Sixth and Prince George sts.
Laurel Advocacy and Referral Services. Food pantry is open by appointment Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Monday evenings from 5 to 7:30 p.m. 311 Laurel Ave. For an appointment, call 301.776.0442
Fish of Laurel Food Pantry. Thursdays and Saturdays, from 10:15 a.m. to noon, 308 Gorman Ave. Call 240.547.9013
and homeless services operations.
LARS is also hosting its Holidays of Hope program in December, which aims to collect 1,200 toys and 300 gift cards
“to make sure children in the area have something to open” on Christmas morning, Mouton said.
-Katie V. Jones
MBC Toastmasters Club. Learn communication skills in a supportive environment. Virtual meetings on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month, 7:15 p.m. To learn more, email mbctoastmasters@ metropolitanbaptist.org
FOOD PANTRIES, DISTRIBUTIONS
St. Philip’s Episcopal Church. Food distributions in partnership with Capital Area Food Bank. Third Sunday of every month, from 9 a.m. to
Living Hope Church Distributions. Tuesdays from 1 to 2:30 p.m. 613 Montgomery St. Call 301.497.6424
St. Mary of the Mills Food Pantry. Thursdays, 8:30 a.m. while supplies last. Kessler Center, 114 St. Mary’s Pl. Call 301.725.3080
Gospel Assembly Church Food Pantry. 8740 Cherry Lane, Suite 12.
Runners at the start of LARS’ Race Against Hunger 5K COURTESY OF ANTHONY TILGHMAN
Guests gather under the festive lights at Towne Centre at Laurel.
Eleanor Noll, 6, takes a photo with Santa Claus during the Towne Centre at Laurel tree lighting on Nov. 23.
The tree at Towne Centre at Laurel after the lighting ceremony.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF AIESHA SOLOMON
SHELTER
unteering can email LWSboard@ groups.io for more information.
Ott noted that Laurel had a congregation-centered winter shelter from the late 1980s to 2020. During the COVID-19 pandemic, unhoused people from throughout Prince George’s County were sheltered for three winters at a Beltsville motel. Rooms at the ho-
tel were underwritten by a federal grant, and guests supervised by the nonprofit Community Crisis Services Inc.
Taking Care of Our Neighbors stepped in last year when federal funding ended. The nonprofit organized a two-month shelter located at the city’s Lakehouse at Granville Gude Park. “The full Laurel Winter Shelter hasn’t swung back into full operation till this season,” Ott said.
Agnes Pasco Conaty
“Deck the trees with boughs of pinecones.”
BACONTOWN
abeth Henson, Gibson’s greatgreat-great-great-grandmother. Gibson has fond memories of visiting her grandparents at the home when she was a child.
“We had so much love in this house,” Gibson said. “They had an outhouse, as there was no running water. Her outhouse was beautiful. At wintertime, there was heat.”
Gibson’s grandparents moved out of Henson House when she was in her early teens. Another family member now owns the property and lives in a home behind the house, which has fallen into disrepair.
“We can’t do anything with it,” said Rev. Jerry Colbert, pastor at Mt. Zion United Methodist Church (Mt. Zion UMC), which is directly across the street from Henson House. For the last year and a half, Colbert has made it his mission to honor Bacontown’s history.
“It would be great to restore [Henson House] and rebuild it, but it is still in the family,” Colbert said. He is pleased, however, that the church was given permission to place the signboard on the property.
“What I am most interested in, is saving Anne Arundel history,” Colbert said, as he addressed the gathering in early December. “So many of my [congregation] members are direct descendants of Ma Bacon. Save what we have.”
Mt. Zion UMC was founded as Bacon Chapel in a log cabin that stood where Mt. Zion is now; graves of slaves are in the church’s cemetery. The property is also home to St. Jacob’s Lodge No. 28, which served as an elementary school for the local Black population. Gibson’s mother, along with her
aunts and uncles, all attended classes there.
“I pray the community will hold onto it,” Gibson said. “Keep houses looking nice, a community to be proud of.”
A number of grants, including one from Anne Arundel County, funded production and installation of the signboard.
“These historic communities are so important for history and legacy,” Anne Arundel County Councilmember Julie Hummer (District 4), said at the event. “This is a way to share the history.”
LAUREL SQUIRREL By
