“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. . .” Margaret Mead (1901-1978)

Published by the City of Takoma Park www.cityoftakomapark.org February 2006 Skateboard Park Location Remains Up in the Air You see them rolling down sidewalks, In our own back yard hopping up and down curbs, haunting The Takoma Park option, first dis- loading docks and searching out stairs cussed in 2001, seemed a sure thing and rails, the gritty grind of their wheels four years ago. Skaters and their par- on pavement announcing their pres- ents, along with community members ence in the streets and neighborhoods and the City Council, crowded Coun- of Takoma Park. They are the local skate- cil chambers to embrace the idea of a boarders, always in search of new tricks neighborhood skate park built on the - and a place to try them. two dilapidated tennis courts behind Now they have two possibilities, Piney Branch Elementary School, at though each is proving to be as slippery the Takoma-Piney Branch Neighbor- as the waxed concrete ledges they ride hood Park. Those concerned with los- all over town. One, right in Takoma ing the tennis courts got newly sur- Park, presents questions regarding op- faced courts at the Takoma Park Middle erational costs; the other, in Silver Spring, School. Then the grant meant to fund is still casting about for a suitable loca- the project was discontinued and the PHOTO BY SAM RICCI Ele Rubenstein kick flips off the loading dock at CVS, a popular spot for local tion. City Council discussed the matter project was put on hold. skateboarders. The community is considering a skate park for the city. at its January 17 work session. Today, funding for a complete reno- vation of the Takoma-Piney park is in- goes up, some suspect the city facility cluded in the county's Capital Improve- would become more regional and may ment Program (CIP) budget and, if ap- even prompt the county to abandon Braithwaite selected to proved by the County Council in May, the Silver Spring project. "If this is the is slated for construction in 2008. Mary- only game in town, I think it's going to direct public works land National Capital Park and Plan- be different," says Haiduven, who You may have seen her out raking ager and Solid ning Commission, which owns the park, wants to re-introduce the skatepark leaves with the pick-up crews, muscling Waste Man- requested an additional $75,000 from proposal to the community in light of the truck’s giant leaf vacuum into the ager as well. the County Planning Board to purchase the new circumstances. piles collected in the street. Or perhaps As Recycling skateboard equipment for the park. Although Silver Spring's commercial you’ve heard her voice on the Public Coordinator, "We're ready to help out with the equip- business district plan (CBD) specifically Works line, advising you about free she made a ment and we're asking [the city] to do calls for a skate park, "There's been this mulch, or watched her testify before city particularly the supervision," says Ellen Masciocchi, uncertainty about where and when we council about energy efficiency in city indelible mark who is guiding the project through Park will get it," says Glenn Kreger, team buildings or trash truck purchases. creating a pio- Daryl Braithwaite and Planning. leader for Silver Spring at Park and Now Daryl Braithwaite, who has been neering recy- Supervision would not be the only Planning. Some neighbors have op- with the Department of Public Works cling program for the city. responsibility for the city, however, and posed the possible acquisition of a pri- for 16 years, has been selected as the “I have thoroughly enjoyed my years City Council and staff are wrestling vate lot at the corner of Fenton Street department’s director. She took on the with the City and feel honored to have with the park's annual operating costs, and East West Highway, known as position January 9, after serving as act- had so many opportunities to work with estimated by Debra Haiduven, the Fenton Gateway, for a skatepark, so ing director since Al Lott left last year to residents, Council, and fellow staff to city's Recreation Department direc- planners are searching for alternatives become city manager of Albany, Geor- establish responsive, progressive, and tor, to be $50,000 plus funds to pay on land already publicly owned. So far, gia. Braithwaite was chosen as most environmentally proactive programs,” management staff. Other unresolved they have found none suitable, and with qualified for her new position after a says Braithwaite. “I am looking forward issues include utilities, entrance fees, land in this area among the most expen- nationwide search. to continuing that work as director.” equipment leasing, storage, shed con- sive in the county, Fenton Gateway be- Braithwaite has been Deputy Public City Manager Barbara Matthews struction, policing and safety, and por- comes a financial challenge as well. The Works Director since February 2002, praises Braithwaite’s administrative, table toilets. overseeing the day-to-day operations management and customer service Tony Hawk Foundation has voiced of the five divisions of the Public Works skills, calling her an “asset to the support for a park and could be a source Meanwhile, right next door of funding, but favors unsupervised, Department: administration, building community.” Add to the funding dilemma the maintenance, equipment mainte- Before coming to Takoma Park, fee-free facilities which may not meet news that Silver Spring is committed nance, sanitation, and stormwater Braithwaite was an environmental con- approval at the county level. to building a skate park, but cannot management. She also coordinated the sultant and worked for Clean Water Ac- With such a state of flux, a park in find a site for it. If Takoma Park builds City’s Capital Improvement Program, tion. She holds a degree in environmen- a park before a facility in Silver Spring

and has served as Public Works Man- tal science from Gannon University. Continued on page 10

20912

Takoma Park, MD Park, Takoma 7500 Maple Ave. Maple 7500 Mayor & Council & Mayor

POSTAL CUSTOMER Inside this Issue City of Takoma Park offices will be closed on

ECRWSS Noisy Neighbors y Page 3 Friday, January 27

PRE-SORTSTANDARD from noon to 2 p.m.

TAKOMAPARK,MD Sligo fish return to the home creek Page 4

PERMITNO.

U.S. POSTAGEU.S. Garden Network launched Page 5 for an Employee

PAID Recognition event. 4422 Underage Drinking is illegal Page 9 Page 2 February 2 0 0 6 Takoma Park Newsletter

CITY COUNCIL CALENDAR

Monday, January 23, 2006 - Presen- City Council, 7:30 p.m. (Community tation, Regular Meeting and Center Auditorium) Worksession of the City Council, 7:30 Tuesday, February 14, 2006 - Meeting For further information, or to receive a p.m. (Community Center Auditorium) of the Facade Advisory Board, 7 p.m. copy of the legislation, contact the City (Community Center Atrium Meeting Tuesday, January 24, 2006 - Meet- Clerk’s office, 301-891-7267 ing of the Montgomery College Neigh- Room) bors Advisory Committee, 6 p.m. Tuesday, February 14, 2006 - Meeting or e-mail [email protected]. (Provost’s Conference Room, Mont- of the Tree Commission, 6 p.m. (Commu- gomery College, Takoma and New nity Center Atrium Meeting Room) Regular Meeting - Porter, Austin-Lane, Barry, Clay, York Avenues) Wednesday, February 15, 2006 - Meet- November 28, 2005 Elrich, Williams; ABSENT: Seamens). Wednesday, January 25, 2006 - ing of the Committee on the Environ- Meeting of the Public Safety Citi- ment, 7:30 p.m. (Community Center Ordinance 2005-40, authorizing a con- Ordinance 2005-41 was adopted by roll- zens Advisory Committee, 6:30 p.m. Azalea Room) tract for installation of a pavilion and call vote, authorizing FY06 Budget (Heffner Community Center) Monday, February 20, 2006 - City pathway at Toatley Fraser Park, was Amendment No. 3 (VOTING FOR: Por- Thursday, January 26, 2006 - Meet- Offices Closed for the Presidents’ Day adopted by roll-call vote (VOTING ter, Austin-Lane, Barry, Clay, Elrich, ing of the Emergency Preparedness Holiday FOR: Porter, Clay, Seamens, Williams; Williams; ABSENT: Seamens). Committee, 8:30 a.m. (Community Tuesday, February 21, 2006 - Presenta- ABSENT: Austin Lane, Barry, Erlich). Center Atrium Meeting Room) Ordinance 2005-42 was adopted by roll- tion, Regular Meeting and Worksession Ordinance 2005-41, authorizing FY06 Monday, January 30, 2006 - Presen- of the City Council, 7:30 p.m. (Commu- call vote, authorizing the purchase of tation, Regular Meeting and Work– nity Center Auditorium) Budget Amendment No. 3, was ac- the Granicus web streaming applica- cepted at first reading (VOTING FOR: session of the City Council, 7:30 Tuesday, February 21, 2006 - Meeting of tion (VOTING FOR: Porter, Austin- p.m. (Community Center Auditorium) the Commission on Landlord-Tenant Af- Porter, Clay, Seamens, Williams; AB- Lane, Barry, Clay, Elrich, Williams; Monday, February 6, 2006 - Pre- fairs, 7 p.m. (Community Center Room SENT: Austin-Lane, Barry, Elrich). ABSENT: Seamens). sentation and Worksession of the TBA) Special Session - December 5, 2005 The Consent Agenda was adopted as City Council, 7:30 p.m. (Community Tuesday, February 21, 2006 - Meeting Center Auditorium) of the Arts and Humanities Commis- Resolution 2005-86 was adopted, au- follows (VOTING FOR: Porter, Aus- Tuesday February 7, 2006 - Meeting of sion, 7:30 p.m. (Community Center thorizing execution of the National tin-Lane, Barry, Clay, Elrich, Williams; the Commission on Landlord-Tenant Atrium Meeting Room) Capital Region Mutual Aid Agree- ABSENT: Seamens). Affairs, 7 p.m. (Municipal Building) Thursday, February 23, 2006 - Meeting ment (VOTING FOR: Porter, Austin- A. Resolution 2005-88 Appointing Dan Wednesday, February 8, 2006 - of the Emergency Preparedness Com- Lane, Barry, Clay, Elrich, Williams; Turner, Katherine Kelley, and Andrew Meeting of the Safe Roadways Com- mittee, 8:30 a.m. (Community Center ABSENT: Seamens). Kelemen (as PSCAC representative) to mittee, 7 p.m. (Community Center Atrium Meeting Room) Resolution 2005-87 was adopted, adopt- the Safe Roadways Committee Room Atrium Meeting Room) Monday, February 27, 2006 - Presenta- Monday, February 13, 2006 - Pre- tion, Public Hearing, Regular Meeting and ing the Montgomery County Hazard B. Resolution 2005-89 providing for sentation, Public Hearing, Regular Worksession of the City Council, 7:30 Mitigation Plan (VOTING FOR: Council’s 2005 Holiday Recess Meeting and Worksession of the p.m. (Community Center Auditorium)

For updated schedule information, check the City’s web page at http:// www.cityoftakomapark.org or contact the City Clerk. If you would like to receive a weekly e- Citizens Liaison Committee for the Community Center. City residents are mail of the City Council agenda, or if you would like to receive a weekly agenda by U.S. Mail, contact the City Clerk at 301-891-7267. invited to participate in the Citizens Liaison Committee for the Community Center. The committee serves to foster communication among interested Committee Vacancies parties and the Council in the ongoing process for the development of a community center. Information about the committee is available on the City Committee on the Environment. This committee is charged with advising the City Council on all environmental issues, including but not limited to, tree protection, open web page. If you are interested in serving on this committee, contact your space conservation, biodiversity, watershed functioning, energy use and conservation, and City Councilmember or the City Clerk’s Office to request appointment. recycling; reviewing and providing advice on City actions that affect environmental quality; educating Takoma Park residents, businesses, and government on environmental issues; conveying citizen views on environmental issues to Council and City staff; and working with City staff on environmental issues and projects. (Up to four vacancies. The committee also welcomes participation from non-members who would like to serve as resources to help committee members with a particular issue or special event.) NOTICE Noise Control Board. This seven-member board assists and advises the City on noise Proposed conveyance of City of Takoma Park property control issues, including administration and enforcement of the Noise Control Ordinance, and adjudicates noise disturbance complaints. (One vacancy.) and notice of public hearing Nuclear Free Takoma Park Committee. The seven-member committee is respon- sible for overseeing the implementation of and adherence to the Nuclear-Free Zone Act. Public notice is hereby given that the City of Takoma Park (Four current members’ terms will expire March 31.) intends to convey approximately 0.192 acres or 8,369 square feet Personnel Appeal Board. The five-member board is charged with hearing employee appeals pursuant to Chapter 4.04 “Personnel” of the Takoma Park Code. (Two current of City-owned land located at Takoma Junction, on the sloped members’ terms will expire March 31.) area behind the existing City parking lot and Columbia Avenue, Public Safety Citizens Advisory Committee. The 12-member committee is charged with providing input and advice to the Council and the City’s public safety agencies to Montgomery County for use as a parking area for the Takoma about how the City can better meet the ongoing needs and concerns of residents regarding police services and public safety. (Up to four vacancies.) Park Fire Station. The Takoma Park City Council has deter- mined that this real property is not needed by the City for the Interested applicants are encouraged to attend committee meetings before applying. To apply, send a letter of interest and resume or statement of qualifications to the City Clerk, public use. An Ordinance authorizing the conveyance of this real City of Takoma Park, 7500 Maple Avenue, Takoma Park, MD 20912 or by e-mail to [email protected]. For more information contact the City Clerk, 301-891-7267. property to Montgomery County will be considered by the City Council on Monday, February 27, 2006, at 7:30 p.m. at the Speak with the Mayor Takoma Park Community Center, 7500 Maple Ave., Takoma Park, MD 20912. Public comment on the Ordinance and the Have a meeting with Mayor Porter and let her know your issues and concerns. Meeting hours are every Wednesday, 11 a.m. to noon by appointment; and from 7:30 p.m. to proposed property conveyance will be heard at that time. For 9:30 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome for the evening hours only. To schedule a meeting, more information, contact the City Clerk at 301-891-7267. contact Executive Assistant Peggye Forster at 301-891-7230 or [email protected]. Takoma Park Newsletter February 2 0 0 6 Page 3 Voting Amendment Begins To Moves Forward The City Council placed a non-bind- tinues until one candidate receives a ment. The charter amend- Deadline for Editor ing advisory question on the Novem- majority of votes and is elected. ment becomes effective 50 Submissions: Virginia Myers Kelly ber 2005 election ballot, asking voters The City Council has decided to days after the resolution February 13 Layout if they favored a change to an instant proceed with the charter amendment is adopted, unless a valid Next Issue: Bonnie L. Down runoff voting system for future city process to consider changes to the petition for a referendum February 24 Production elections. Of those voting on the ques- City Charter to provide for instant on the charter amendment is Sligo Computer Services, tion, 1,992 voted for the question and runoff voting in city elections. The signed by 20 percent or more of Inc. 390 voted against it. Council will also consider changes the qualified voters of the City. Currently, the City Charter specifies that would provide some flexibility in The Council will hold a public hear- www.cityoftakomapark.org that the candidate receiving the larg- scheduling the dates for the Nominat- ing on the proposed charter amend- Vol. 45, no. 5 est number of votes is elected. In an ing Caucus and the inauguration of ment on March 27, 2006, 7:30 p.m., in instant runoff system, voters rank can- the City Council. the Community Center Auditorium. The Takoma Park Newsletter is pub- didates (1, 2, 3 and so on). If no candi- The process of amending the City Additional information will be pro- lished 11 times a year as the official date receives a majority of the first Charter involves notice of a public vided in the next Takoma Park News- publication of the City of Takoma Park, choices, the candidate with the fewest hearing, a public hearing, adoption of letter. For information about the www.cityoftakomapark.org. first choices is eliminated and those a two-reading charter amendment proposed amendments, contact the The Newsletter does not accept commer- voters’ second choice votes are redis- resolution, and a series of publications City Clerk at 301-891-7267 or e-mail cial, classified or political advertisements. tributed to other candidates. This con- of a fair summary of the charter amend- [email protected]. Unsolicited materials by Takoma Park residents, including reports by community Dealing with Noisy Neighbors If the Noise Control Board finds in groups and articles that may contain opin- favor of the person bringing the com- ion, will be considered for publication. Moses A. Wilds, Jr. plaint the board may order the viola- Name, address and telephone number advise the City on its noise control ef- Landlord-Tenant Coordinator tor to: (A) cease and desist from the must accompany all submitted material. forts; (2) to conduct hearings on citizen conduct or activity which created the A tenant writes that she is having Pursuant to City Council Resolution No. complaints of noise disturbances; and noise disturbance or to take other trouble sleeping due to noise coming 1992-36 of June 8, 1992 that sets forth (3) to make findings of noise violations. corrective action in order to abate or from her neighbor’s apartment. She the editorial guidelines of the Newsletter, The enabling ordinance defines a noise correct the violation of the Noise Or- has informed her landlord of the con- disturbance as any steady-state or im- dinance; and/or (B) pay a fine to the the Editor reserves the right to edit all tinuing problem and wants to know pulsive noise occurring on either a con- City of up to $200 per violation. If submitted copy for length, clarity, style, what else can she do. tinuous or intermittent basis that is: (1) there are multiple violators, or if the spelling and grammar. The tenant should advise her land- unpleasant, annoying, offensive, loud, board has determined more than one Published material containing opinions lord in writing of the problem and re- or obnoxious; (2) unusual for the time noise disturbance violation, the fine quest that the landlord contact the of- does not necessarily reflect the views of of day or location where it is produced may be imposed on each violator. fending tenant. The tenant should also the Newsletter or the City of Takoma Park. or heard; or (3) detrimental to the health, Should the board determine the exist- keep a written record of the noise inci- The City of Takoma Park is an equal comfort, or safety of any individual or ence of a repeat violation (i.e. the vio- dents and corresponding complaints to opportunity employer and does not dis- to the reasonable enjoyment of prop- lator is found to have created a noise the landlord. erty or the lawful conduct of business disturbance within one year immedi- criminate on the basis of race, color, reli- If the problem continues, the tenant because of the loudness, duration, or ately preceding the current noise dis- gion, ancestry or national origin, sex, age, may wish to file a two-party noise com- character of the noise. turbance) the board may order the marital status or physical or mental dis- plaint with the Noise Control Board. The burden of proof for establishing violator to pay a fine to the City of up abilities that are unrelated in nature and The complaint must be signed by two a violation of the Noise Control Ordi- to $400 for each violation. city residents within 10 days of the al- nance is on the party who files the extent to job performance. The Newsletter leged violation of the Noise Ordinance. Noise Disturbance Complaint and the Information on the noise complaint process, is printed on recycled-content paper. The Noise Control Board was estab- burden shall be met by a preponder- and copies of the form, may be obtained from To contact the editor e-mail: lished by City Ordinance 2002-35 to (1) ance of evidence. the City Clerk at 301-891-7267. [email protected] COLTA’s Corner and Decisions entitled to an award of damages; (3) 8313 Eastridge Avenue (2005-88L) the Landlord’s duty under Section the value of each Tenant’s tenancy On December 20, 2005, a capital im- 6.16.050 (obligations of landlords) of was reduced as a result of the defec- provement petition was approved for the Takoma Park Landlord Tenant Law; tive tenancy by 60 percent for sixth rent increases ranging from $27.46 to (2) the tenant’s time waiting for sched- floor tenants to 20 percent for second $92.35 on six units of the property. The uled repairs, loss of use of the bedroom floor tenants; (4) the Landlord was improvements included replacing all closet, aesthetic unpleasantness and ordered to pay each tenant whose plumbing lines, vinyl flooring, new re- resulting stress of crumbling walls/ceil- apartment is located above the first frigerator, replacing venetian blinds, ings, mildew and flaking paint de- floor a rent refund derived by multi- painting bathroom, and refinishing creased the value of the tenancy by 20 plying daily rent by 63 days and then wood floors. percent and (3) the landlord must pay multiplying that figure by their floor All rent increases are in addition to the tenant $558, which is 20 percent of location percentage. the annual rent stabilization allow- the tenant’s rent for the period from the Klockner v. Fred Korn Estate By Jean Kerr, Housing Specialist ance in effect at the time the increases complaint filing date until the com- (2005-70T) are taken. plaint hearing date, as damages for cre- On December 28, 2005, COLTA is- The Commission on Landlord Ten- ating the defective tenancy. sued a decision on a tenant complaint ant Affairs (COLTA) recently approved December 2005 that the landlord charged an illegal two capital improvement petitions for COLTA DECISIONS Laryce President-Neal & Houston Ave. rent of $850 when the tenant moved rental properties in Takoma Park. Tenant Assoc. v. ZaZa Houston LLC into the apartment. COLTA found COLTA also ruled on an illegal rent Moses A. Wilds, Jr., Landlord- On December 19 in a combined case that the maximum allowable rent for increase complaint. Tenant Coordinator and involving an alleged defective tenancy the tenant’s apartment was $618 at the Jean Kerr, Housing Specialist Capital Improvement Petitions caused by the absence of elevator ser- beginning of the tenancy and $652 8320 Roanoke Avenue (2005-87L) November 2005 vice, COLTA issued a decision that (1) from August 22, 2005 to present. On December 12, 2005, a capital Acadia v. Carter the Landlord had not made a good faith COLTA further found that based on the lease, testimonies and documen- improvement petition was approved On November 29 in a case involving effort to repair the elevator and his con- an alleged defective tenancy caused by duct delayed the repair of the elevator tation, that the landlord charged rent for rent increases ranging from $16.93 the landlord’s failure to repair an exte- resulting in a defective tenancy from in excess of the lawful limit. COLTA to $32.68 on six units of the property. rior water leak that resulted in damage April 11, 2005 through June 13, 2005; (2) ordered that the tenant rent be reduced The improvements included replac- to the tenant’s rental unit, COLTA is- the Tenant who failed to prove that the to $652 per month. COLTA further ing the hot water heater, a new range, sued a decision that (1) the Landlord’s defective tenancy caused any specific ordered that the landlord reimburse bedroom soundproofing, new en- Property Manager’s failure to make physical injury, medical expenses, lost the tenant $8,562 for illegal rents col- trance door, hallway renovation, and good faith efforts to repair the interior wages or housing costs and who had a lected from September 2002 through replacing a retaining wall. water damage constituted a breach of pre-existing medical problem was not October 2005 and any time thereafter. Page 4 February 2 0 0 6 Takoma Park Newsletter Welcome Home... Native Fish Return to Sligo Creek

By Ethan Goffman “Welcome Home!” read the banner straddling Sligo Creek, hoisted by a gaggle of kids. The children then wet their hands and gingerly placed the squirming minnows into Sligo Creek. It was spring of 2004 and the fish were indeed returning to a lost home; they were native species that had disap- peared from Sligo Creek decades ago. The children are members of Friends of Sligo Creek, which supports county restocking efforts in Takoma Park and Silver Spring. The group also monitors water quality, works on stormwater re- duction, and removes invasive species, among many efforts that make the stream more habitable for aquatic creatures. “To be able to make real permanent change, it takes a commitment from the people in that watershed,” says Keith Van Ness, Senior Aquatic Ecologist of the county’s led by Jim Cummins of the Interstate enue Recreation Center, the species County fought this urban denigration Department of Environmental Protec- Commission for the Potomac River eventually made their way downstream with retention ponds to capture sedi- tion. “And that’s what’s happened now Basin started from scratch. “The ques- to Takoma Park. ment, stone walls to fight erosion, and with the Friends of Sligo Creek.” tion was where are you going to get The dream of introducing fish would reforestation. Adding root wads and Montgomery County’s aquatic resto- these fish,” Van Ness explains. “To never have become reality without a woody debris provided friendly habi- ration may be unique. Restoring lost be ecologically sensitive, you want program to treat a stream degraded by tat for fish to hide and breed. fish species simply has not been done. to get fish that are at least in the same urban runoff. The problem is worst af- But the challenge of cleaning an urban “Very few studies or restoration prac- watershed.” ter rainstorms, when torrents rush stream remains immense. Stormwater tices have anything to do with restock- Initially, the county chose a healthy madly into urban streams. In an earlier management is key, increasingly ing,” explains Susan Flanders Cushman, nearby stream, the Northwest Branch, state of nature, most stormwater is ab- through such community projects as rain a doctoral candidate at the University where fish genetics most closely match sorbed into the ground, but as areas are gardens and rain barrels, says Mike of Maryland Center for Environmental Sligo Creek’s original inhabitants. Wear- covered by impervious surfaces, such Smith of the Water Quality Committee. Science. “There wasn’t a lot of knowl- ing otherworldly electric backpacks and as parking lots and roofs, water impact The effort also requires a long-term com- edge about this,” agrees Van Ness. “It knee-length boots, biologists electro– and velocity increase. Over time the wasn’t like you could open a text book shocked the fish, swooped in with nets, process changes the shape and flow of a Continued on next page and see Native Fish Restoration 101.” and transported them to Sligo Creek. stream, harming fish habitat. So, in 1990, an interagency group Released near the Sligo-Dennis Av- Beginning in 1989 Montgomery Recent Dump Reporting Illicit Discharges Threatens Creek Federal Regulation defines any non- Oil sheen As this story was being edited, storm water discharge into a stream Algae news came that the Washington Sub- (MS4) as illicit. NPDES Phase II com- Dead vegetation or inhibited growth urban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) munities such as Takoma Park’s are Dead animals discharged millions of gallons of required to actively engage in Illicit Stains on channel bottom or sides chlorinated water into Sligo Creek Discharge Detection and Elimination Pipe corrosion near Kemp Mill. The discharge, process. Public Reporting is one im- Presence of dry weather flows which occurred from January 6 to 9, immediately killed 162 dusky sala- portant measure toward clean water To report illegal spills, dumping, con- mander, 93 juvenile sunfish, 76 act objectives. nections, or local emergencies related blacknose dace, and a variety of oth- Recently numerous residents as well to the storm drain system or the sani- Water softener brine backwash ers within half a mile of the dis- as the Friends of Sligo Creek reported tary sewer system, call one of the fol- Reclaimed or recycled water charge, and effects were apparent illicit discharge south of Maple Avenue lowing numbers: at the twin 72-inch storm conduits out- Effluent from septic tanks down to Dennis Avenue, scene of fall. The origin has been identified as a Department of Public Works: Mobile carpet cleaning earlier fish stockings. 301-891-7633 or 301-891-7620 Laundry waste waters construction site in the District of Co- WSSC failed to notify the Mary- MDE- 301-665-2850 Spills from roadway accidents lumbia. “Investigation and elimination” land DEP before the discharge, MGC DEP 240-777-7746 Permissible Discharges (admissible is underway by DC’s Environmental which continued for three days. when managed) inspectors, the county and state. Maryland law prohibits the dis- ProhibitedDischarges Landscape irrigation Public awareness is an important charge of chlorine or chlorine prod- Dumping hazardous chemicals into Diverted stream flows ucts at rates that exceed 0.1 milli- component in the elimination of pollut- storm drains Rising groundwater grams per liter, according to the ants from our water resources. Here is Improper disposal of auto and Uncontaminated groundwater Friends of Sligo Creek web site. This how all can help: household toxins infiltration level was almost certainly surpassed. When jogging or walking your dog Improper connections to storm Uncontaminated pumped (Sump At press time WSSC officials were along Sligo Creek you may notice some drain system (floor drains, sanitary pumps) groundwater not yet prepared to comment. unusual color or muddy water, large sewer lines, etc.) Foundation drains Despite the dump, the fish popu- quantities of floating debris, foam or oil Sanitary wastewater Air conditioning condensate lation is expected to recover. The sheen. Report it to DPW, MDE or Mont- Pet waste and lawn clippings Springs Maryland DEP pumped the Dennis gomery County Department of Envi- Cooking grease Water from crawl space pumps Avenue pond for maintenance, but ronment. The following indicate poten- Industrial process water Lawn watering runoff otherwise plans no cleanup; Keith tial illicit discharge: Chlorinated pool water Flows from riparian habitats Van Ness explains that, as the water Unusual color or cloudiness Commercial car wash wastewater and wetlands flows downstream, it becomes less Strong pungent or musty odor Wash-down of loading areas Residual street wash water chlorinated through dilution and Floating debris Wastewater treatment plant effluent Discharges or flows from dissipating into the atmosphere. Surface scum or foam Dumping of liquid waste fire fighting activities Takoma Park Newsletter February 2 0 0 6 Page 5

Native Fish Continued from previous page Getting involved in the arts mitment. “To impact aquatic life . . . is a pretty tall order,” says Smith. Cultural Directory underway “It’s a decades long process.” Shouldn’t you be included in the new Takoma Park Cultural Directory? To succeed, the restocked species must be able to breed through Individuals and organizations alike will benefit from a listing in the Arts and Humani- several generations. Many restored species, like the Longnose Dace and Tessellated Darter, have done so; others, like the Ameri- ties Commission’s new Cultural Directory. Increase the public’s awareness of your work. can Eel, returned on their own. Expand your exposure in the Takoma Park arts and humanities community. Three native species that survived the pre-1990 period of urban- Participation in the directory is free. ization make up the bulk of the population. Of these the Blacknose Dace is by far the most common, as the species survives pollution Reading series seeks poets and temperature extremes. Now the hardy fish is one of some 13 The City of Takoma Park and the Takoma Park Arts and Humanities Commission are species you may spot splashing to the surface, or gliding in the happy to announce the first Takoma Park Poetry Series. The series will begin this winter murky depths of Sligo Creek. and will feature some of the finest poets in the city and surrounding area. Fish, of course, are only one species in a complete aquatic ecosys- To be considered for a spot in the series, poets can send three to five poems to Poet tem. Van Ness remembers mentioning spring frogs to a small boy helping put fish back into the creek. Had the child heard their Laureate Don Berger at [email protected] or mail or drop them off with Sara Daines at nightly chorus? No, he had never heard a frog call. “I’m thinking, the Takoma Park Community Center, 7500 Maple Ave, Takoma Park MD 20912. The what a way for a child to grow up,” says Van Ness. submission deadline is Friday, January 25. In 1992 the county began an amphibian restoration program, The series schedule, which will include open-mike events, will be posted in early transplanting egg masses to vernal pools and wetlands, where February. All readings will be held at the Takoma Park Community Center. Readings are they won’t be eaten by fish. Maintenance of these vernal pools is one way to support restoration. free and open to everyone. A reception will follow each. Monitoring of these newly introduced frogs is done in pitch Artists invited to exhibit at new center darkness entirely by hearing, explains Wilpers. Frog presence is reported on a four-point scale, from nothing, to a single frog, to Would you like to exhibit your work in the Takoma Park Community Center? overlapping noises, to a full-throated frog chorus. Although Frog The Arts and Humanities Commission is seeking proposals for exhibits in the Takoma Watch now reports a strong frog presence in Wheaton, the am- Park Community Center. Exhibits may feature the work of a group of artists or craftspeople phibians have not made their way down to Takoma Park’s faster or the work of an individual. The exhibit may highlight the culture of a select ethnic group, moving waters. Still the chorus has returned to northern Sligo the work of a poet or novelist, historical events, and other arts and humanities-related Creek, to elicit childish wonderment once more. Along with amphibian life, the county and Friends of Sligo subjects. Creek are now working to bring in more sensitive fish species Getting involved with arts and humanities such as the Rosie Sided Dace and the Silver Jawed Minnow. It The Takoma Park Arts and Humanities Commission is seeking volunteers to assist with is too soon to know if these will survive. Still the creek has come a long way, with fish darting through its waters, numerous a variety of activities planned for this coming year. You can help with a one time project insect species dancing above, salamanders slithering the banks, or event, or become involved in a standing committee. Just let us know what you are all nestled by a thickening tree canopy. Wilpers recently spot- interested in and how much time you have. We’d love to have you get involved. ted a Great Blue Heron above the revitalized creek, which now provides plenty of food and habitat. “The entire world is a For more information on any of these activites, contact the Arts and Humanities Commission garden,” he exclaims, “and we’re the gardeners.” c/o Sara Daines, at 301-891-7224 or email [email protected]. Horticulture Club Grows All through the long winter, Garden Network I dream of my garden. The Takoma Horticulture Club has launched a new website, www.takomagarden.net. The product of many local gardening experts, the site On the first day of spring, offers local and up-to-date information about gardening, including recommended I dig my fingers deep into the soft earth. shrubs and perennials, local gardening services, and resources of all types - books, magazines, television, and blogs. And just for inspiration, the site includes I can feel its energy, and photographs of the “Gardens of Greater Takoma.” my spirits soar. In addition to gardening, the site includes advice from —Helen Hayes local experts about environ- mental concerns affecting property owners, such as in- vasive plants, effects on the watershed, and the possibil- “Wildlife Gardening” ity of switching to organic techniques and growing na- is the topic of a free public event tive plants. Wednesday, February 22, 7:30 p.m. City employees have con- at Heffner Park in Takoma Park tributed information about city services benefiting the (on Oswego Avenue homeowner; the site covers near the Department of Public Works). local leaf pick-up, avail- ability of free mulch, and The speaker, Jim Gallion of the University of Maryland, free tree advice by the city will teach the four elements needed arborist. Susan Harris, president of to restore or create wildlife habitat. the club and designer of the site, solicited numerous lo- Sponsored by the Takoma Horticulture Club. Carole Galati’s Takoma Park garden is featured on the cal gardening and environ- new Takoma Gardens web site. mental experts for help with For more information, visit our website, the site, and hopes its new users will continue to contribute suggestions for www.takomahort.org, further content, links, and garden photographs. Contact her at 301-270- or call Susan at 301-270-5481. 5481 with your ideas. Information about the Takoma Horticulture Club itself is still available on its website, www.takomahort.org. Page 6 February 2 0 0 6 Takoma Park Newsletter

FUN DAY Grade K-5 Recreation The Fun Day Program offers exciting field trips on scheduled whole day closings and Recreation Department Updates: activities and performances on scheduled half day closings. Participants will meet at Our offices are temporarily located behind the new community center in Trailer #1 and Trailer the Community Center, 7500 Maple Av- #2. Trailer #1 is where you can register for all programs and receive information. Office hours enue. On half days only students attending are 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Phone number is 301-891-7290. Bear with us as we excitedly await Takoma Park Elementary will be picked up the completion of phase two! Drop off: Checks or money orders only - NO CASH - Front in the cafeteria and children attending Piney desk of Community Center from 5 - 10 p.m. M-F. 10-6 Sat. Branch Elementary will be picked up in the Kids Crochet gym by a Recreation staff member. Trips, Baby Sitting Class activities, and performers are subject to Ages 9 - 14 Age 6 - up change. They may also be canceled if mini- This class is designed for kids ages 9-14 interested Do you love yarn and all the cool things you mum registration is not met. Children may in babysitting. can make from it? Learn how to finger knit, bring a snack on half days and must bring a ® Topics covered will include: CPR, Fire crochet and make cool projects including Kindermusik Village lunch on all-day Fun Day Trips. Space is Safety, First Aid, Infant and Child Care and bookmarks, hats, scarves, toys and more! Ages newborn - 1.5 limited, sign up early. Personal Safety. A certificate will be issued Suitable for complete beginners and those Kindermusik® is a community of parents who already know how to crochet. A $10 Reptile World - See amazing reptiles, upon completion of class and exam. This and babies, sharing and caring for each touch a giant snake! materials fee due to instructor at first class. class is sponsored by the Takoma Park other. Babies in this multi-age class are When: Monday, February 27 Volunteer Fire Department, venerable Fire Six weeks, Instructor Amy O’Neill Houck. changing more rapidly than at any other Time: 1 - 5 p.m. Chief James Jarboe presiding. When: Thursdays, time in their development. Therefore, each Fee: T.P. City Resident $10 February 23 - March 30 activity presents features and choices for Non-Resident $15 Six weeks. Time: 4 - 5p.m. lap babies, crawling babies and walking When: Mondays, Location: Rose Room, Takoma Park babies, participating at his/her level. Come Twoosy Doodlers February 6 - March 20 Community Center join us each week for 45 minutes of rocking, Ages 20 - 36 months Time: 7 - 9 p.m. 7500 Maple Avenue massage, dancing, exercising, singing, play- This is a special art class just for toddlers Location: Rose Room, Takoma Park Fee: T.P. City Residents $60 ing, clapping, and more! In addition to the and a parent or care giver. Little fingers will Community Center Non Residents $70 registration fee, an at-home materials fee of experiment with painting, gluing, sticking, 7500 Maple Avenue $30 is to be paid to the instructor on the first printing, and creating, while developing Fee: Free Design Your Own Poncho day of class. Your at-home materials in- fine motor, language, and self-help skills. No Class on February 20. Adult - 12 clude a Kindermusik Cock-A-Doodle Moo! This is an “I Can Do It!” class that is fun, If you know how to knit and purl you can CD, a home activity journal, a Cock-A- creative, and filled with learning opportu- Puppy Kindergarten design. Choose your yarn, we’ll discuss Doodle Moo! book, and art banner. nities for both the child and the care giver! Teach your pup or teenaged dog the foun- and design styles, stitch patterns, sizing, Maximum of 10, minimum of five. There is an $18 materials fee to be paid to dation skills: attention, sit, come when gauge and learn about fitting and finishing. Eight weeks. the instructor the first day of class. Maxi- called, leave it, and beginning leash walk- Suitable for beginners who can cast on, knit mum of eight. minimum of four. Six weeks. and purl. Materials not included. When: Wednesdays, ing. Positive reinforcement training using February 15 - April 5 Session 2: NO PUNISHMENT and lots of fun. Learn Three weeks, Instructor Amy O’Neill Houck Time: 9:30 - 10:15 a.m. When: Tuesdays, what is and isn’t normal doggy etiquette! When: Saturdays, or Thursdays, February 28 - April 4 Pups from four months to 18 months who March 18 - April 1 February 16 - April 6 Time: 10:30 - 11:15 a.m. are not aggressive toward other dogs or Time: 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Time: 11:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Location: Art Room - T.P. Community people are welcome. Must have current Location: Rose Room, Takoma Park Location: Heffner Community Center, Center, 7500 Maple Avenue vaccination records. Kids 10 and up with Community Center 42 Oswego Avenue Fee: T.P. City Resident $68/session adult are welcome! Limited to six dogs. 7500 Maple Avenue Fee: T.P. City Resident $85/session Non-Resident $78/session Indoor location, six weeks. Fee: T.P. City Residents $70 Non-Resident $95/session School Age Doodlers Non Residents $80 Instructor: Elizabeth Marsden, Kindermusik Our Time® Engaged through the Piaget method of The Logical Dog Ages 1.5 - 3 child-centered learning, students are intro- Session: II A music and movement program for chil- duced to a new master artist each week, When: Saturdays, dren and their parent or care giver. Our Time then create their own masterpieces using March 4 - April 8 focuses on your child’s emotional develop- the artist’s style, materials, and techniques! Time: 10 - 11a.m. ment as his/her confidence, curiosity, self Fun, hands-on classes create a safe learning Location: Heffner Park Community control and communication begin to take space for children as they experiment with Center, 42 Oswego Avenue shape. During our 15-week session, we come paints and pastels, collage, origami, bam- Fee: T.P. City Resident $85 together each week for 45 minutes of sing- boo brushes, modeling compounds, and Non Resident $95 ing, chanting, listening, moving, dancing, more! Children are continuously introduced Basic Dog Manners and simple instrument playing. The required to new artists and techniques so no class is at-home materials include a double CD, two ever the same. Abrakadoodle classes are Teach your adult dog good manners: not just for the future artists among us - attention, sit, come when called, leave story books, a family activity book, and a specially designed instrument. A materials classes are structured to bolster self-confi- it, beginning leash walking and more. dence and pride in creating a piece of art, Positive reinforcement training fee of $50 is payable to the instructor on the first day of class. while teaching art history, techniques, and using NO PUNISHMENT and skills. There is an $18 materials fee to be lots of fun. Dogs 18 months or Maximum of 12, minimum of five. 15 weeks. paid to the instructor the first day of class. older who are not aggressive When: Wednesdays, Maximum of 10, minimum of four. Six weeks. towards other dogs or people February 8 - May 24 are welcome. Must have current Time: 10:30 - 11:15 a.m., Mini Doodlers vaccination records. Kids 10 and or Thursdays, Ages 3 - 5 up with adult are welcome! February 9 - May 25 Limited to six dogs. Time: 10:30 - 11:15 a.m. Session 2: Indoor location, six weeks. Location: Heffner Community Center, When: Tuesdays, 42 Oswego Avenue February 28 - April 4 Instructor: Elizabeth Marsden, Fee: T.P. City Resident $145/session Time: 4 - 4:45 p.m. The Logical Dog Non-Resident $155/session Location: Art Room - T.P. Community Session: II Center, 7500 Maple Avenue No class When: Saturdays, Fee: T.P. City Resident $68/session April 12 and 13. March 4 - April 8 Non-Resident $78/session Time: 11 a.m. - noon Location: Heffner Park Doodlers Community Center, The Rec. Dept. is seeking Grades 1-5 42 Oswego Avenue Looking for Session 2: Fee: T.P. City Resident $85 equipment for new lab in When: Tuesdays, Non Resident $95 Donations the community center: February 28 - April 4 for Music/ portable piano keyboards Time: 5 - 6 p.m. camcorders (analog or digital) Location: Art Room - T.P. Community blank camcorder tapes Center,7500 Maple Avenue Video Lab Fee: T.P. City Resident $68/session Please call Debra at or DVD-RW discs Non-Resident $78/session. 301-891-7226 to arrange drop off. tripods Takoma Park Newsletter February 2 0 0 6 Page 7

Keying into Computer Lab Library Winter Solstice Gives Way to Imbolc The beauty of the cycle of the year is that anywhere on the circle can be seen as a new beginning. Though the annual Winter Solstice celebration was post- poned on account of inclement weather, the next solar festival, Imbolc, falls on February 1 (or 2) and suggests the hope for spring. The name Imbolc refers to the lactation of the ewes, the flow of milk that “ heralds the return of the life-giving forces of spring.” The website http:// www.celticspirit.org/imbolc.htm gives a lyrical description of this time of year: In most parts of the British Isles, February is a harsh and bitter month... But although the season was so cold and drear, small but sturdy signs of new life began to appear: lambs were born and soft rain brought new grass. Ravens began to build their nests and larks were said to sing with a clearer voice. Bill Jenkins, our favorite ethnomusicologist, and the Foggy Bottom Morris Men

PHOTO BY REBECCA BROWN will bring a evening similar to our traditional Winter Solstice program to this Shuko Tamad, library instructional assistant in the new celebration of light and hope for the lengthening of the days. Dueling schedules computer lab, assists a patron in obtaining his first e-mail have led to a late date for Imbolc: Thursday evening, February 9 at 7:15 p.m., barring a February snowstorm, is the planned date to redeem our lost Winter account. The lab has been a popular feature since it opened Solstice celebration. in December. Many thanks are due to all who drummed and prayed, lit candles, and otherwise encouraged the sun to return. Your efforts were met with success; the days are indeed getting longer. FTPML Spanish Immersion Circle Time Reading Group Thursday mornings at the Library soon promises to be as lively and busy as Tuesday mornings, with its perennially popular Circle Time ( in The Friends Reading Group will be discussing English.). The new Spanish Immersion Circle Time will be offered for children 18 months to 5 years each Thursday morning at 10 a.m. in the T. Coraghessan Boyle’s The Tortilla Curtain Children’s Room by “Señora Lupe.” The initial phase of the Circle Time in the Atrium Room of the Takoma Park Community Center, will run from February through June. Wednesday evening, February 1, from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Lupe Marks, a native Spanish speaker with a degree in Spanish and education, brings rich and varied experience in working with young The Tortilla Curtain is a novel about the conflict between well-to-do children through games, stories, song, and dance. The Takoma Park Maryland Library is quite pleased to be able to offer this program through U.S. citizens and illegal Mexican immigrants the generous support of the Friends of the Takoma Park Maryland Library who have crossed the border in order to make a new life. and the Friends of Mike Morrissey. Set in southern California, the novel explores Please spread the word to friends and neighbors about this program. For more information you may call the Library at 301-891-7259 or contact Lupe societal and personal conflicts between ideals and racism, Marks at 240-899-7468 or [email protected]. shedding light on the dark side of the American Dream.

The Library has multiple copies of the book to loan. Library Programs for February Please call the Library for more information, 301-891-7259, FTPML Reading Group or check the Friends website at www.ftpml.org. Discussion of The Tortilla Curtain by T. Coraghessan Boyle Wednesday, February 1, 7:30 - 9 p.m. (see story)

Imbolc (in lieu of Winter Solstice!) Babe Ruth Plays On Thursday, February 9, 7:15 p.m. Girls and boys ages 6 - 18 can sign up for the 2006 season of Takoma Park- All ages invited (see story) Silver Spring Babe Ruth League baseball and softball. To register online, go to www.takomabaseball.org. To register by mail, print out registration Winter Session of the Twosies forms provided on the website and For two-year-olds and parent or caregiver. mail in as directed. Preregistration required: group-size limited Walk-in registration can be com- Four Wednesdays, 10 a.m. pleted at the Takoma Park Community February 1, 8, 15, March 1 (note: not Feb. 22) Center, 7500 Maple Avenue, on the following dates: Fri., Feb. 24, 6 - 8:30 Spanish Circle Time with Lupe Marks p.m.; Sat., Feb. 25, 10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.; Each Thursday at 10 a.m., beginning Feb. 2 Fri., March 17, 6 - 8:30 p.m.; Sat., March Spanish immersion for children 18, 10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.; Fri., April 7, 18 months to five years 6 - 8:30 p.m.; or Sat., April 8, 6 - 8:30 No Preregistration Required (see story). p.m. We coordinate our schedules with Takoma Park Soccer so your child may Neighborhood Circle Time play both sports. Scholarships are avail- Open to all preschoolers and their adults each Tuesday at 10 a.m. able for players in the free school lunch Informal sing-alongs, poetry, finger games, and nursery tales, program. Accommodations are avail- with participant-leadership welcomed. able for kids with disabilities or unpol- All ages; no preregistration required. ished skills. For more information, call 301-270-0100. Call 301-891-7259 to preregister for programs or for more information. Page 8 February 2 0 0 6 Takoma Park Newsletter THE CRIME REPORT This blotter is not intended to be inclusive of all crime and arrests reported to the Takoma Park Police Department Avenue, a 2002 GMC Yukon truck was Robberies stolen by unknown method. of New Hampshire Avenue, a burglary Wildwood Drive, a 2000 Honda Civic On January 10 at 7:40 p.m. in the 800 occurred. The unknown person broke the On December 27, 10:30 a.m., in the 1000 was stolen by unknown method. blk. of Larch Avenue, a 1996 Ford Mus- block of Anne Street, an armed robbery storefront window and entered the build- Between January 11 at 10 p.m. and Janu- occurred. An adult male was walking ing, then stole the victim’s property. tang was stolen by unknown method. ary 12 at 5 a.m. in the 6400 block of 4th Between December 27, 8 p.m. and De- alone when he noticed two subjects ahead On November 17, between 7:10 a.m. Avenue, a 2004 Dodge Intrepid was sto- of him. After he lost sight of them, he and 1:50 p.m. in the unit block of Phila- cember 28, 6:10 a.m., a 1994 Acura was len by unknown method. stolen by unknown method. heard sounds behind him and turned to delphia Avenue, a residential burglary On December 30, at 10:30 p.m. in the find the subjects pointing handguns at occurred. A window air conditioner on a Between December 23, noon and De- 6400 block of 4th Avenue, a 1996 Jeep cember 29, 9:38 a.m., in the 700 blk. of him. One demanded money and the other first floor window was removed in order Cherokee was stolen by unknown hit the victim with his gun when he did to gain entry. Property was taken. Chaney Dr., a 1995 Dodge Caravan was method. stolen by unknown method. not immediately comply. Both searched On November 17, between 9:30 a.m. On December 23 between 3 a.m. and 7 his pockets and took his wallet. The vic- and 7:25 p.m. in the 7600 block of Maple On December 16, between 2 p.m. and a.m. in the 7800 blk. of Cole Avenue a 2:05 p.m., in the 1000 block of Larch tim was ordered to walk away and the Avenue, a residential burglary occurred. 2005 Scion Truck was stolen by unknown subjects fled on foot. The victim refused A deadbolt lock was pried open and the Avenue, a 2002 Jeep Liberty was stolen method. by unknown method. medical treatment for a minor injury. door forced open. Property was taken. On December 23 between 8 a.m. and 7 On November 17 at 9:10 p.m. in the 400 On December 2, between 10 a.m. and Between December 21, 5 p.m. and De- p.m., in the 6400 blk. of Sligo Mill Rd., cember 22, 5:45 a.m. in the 200 block of block of Boston Avenue, an armed rob- 11:25 a.m. in the unit block of Pine Av- unknown method was used to steal a bery was attempted. An adult female was enue, a residential burglary occurred. A Hodges Lane, an auto theft was at- 1995 Honda Civic. tempted. A window was pried open and walking home when a dark blue minivan side door was pried open to gain entry. On December 24 between 3:10 a.m. and pulled up behind her. A subject exited the Property was taken. the ignition in the 1997 Honda Civic was 3:15 a.m., in the 1000 blk. of University damaged. minivan and immediately approached Between November 20 at noon and Blvd., an auto theft occurred. The owner her, displayed a gun and demanded her November 21 at 6:30 a.m. in the 7500 block On December 22 at 7:08 a.m. in the 7700 left his 1992 Nissan Sentra with the key in block of Greenwood Avenue, an auto bag. The victim refused to hand over her of Jackson Avenue, a burglary occurred. the ignition with the engine running and property and screamed. The suspect then A detached shed was entered through an theft occurred. The owner left her 2004 unattended. Honda CRV with the key in the ignition, hit her with the gun and fled in the unlocked door. Property was taken. Between December 23 at 9 p.m. and minivan. The victim received treatment On November 17, between 7:10 a.m. engine running, doors unlocked and un- December 25 at 4 a.m., in the 7400 blk. of attended. for a minor injury. and 1:50 p.m. in the unit block of Phila- New Hampshire Avenue, a 1993 Ply- On November 18 at 9:38 p.m. in the 7000 delphia Avenue, a residential burglary Between December 21 at 6:30 p.m. and mouth Voyager minivan was stolen by December 22 at 8 a.m. in the 7100 block of block of Westmoreland Avenue an adult occurred. A window air conditioner on a unknown method. female was walking alone when a subject first floor window was removed in order Cedar Avenue, a 1996 Plymouth Voy- Between December 23, 4 p.m. and De- ager was stolen by unknown method. approached her from behind, implied he to gain entry. Property was taken. cember 25, 7:45 p.m., in the 7300 blk. of had a gun and demanded money. The Auto and Related Theft Wildwood Dr., an attempt auto theft victim handed over cash and the subject Between January 6 at 8 p.m. and Janu- occurred. The person attempted to steal a ARRESTS walked away. The victim was not injured. ary 7 at 3:30 p.m. in the 7400 block of New 1999 Jeep Cherokee by damaging the Burglaries Hampshire Avenue, a 1995 Chrysler Cir- door lock and breaking the ignition. On January 9 at 6:45 pm in the 7600 Between January 7, 4 p.m. and January 8, rus was stolen by unknown method. On December 26, 9:23 p.m., in the 7800 block of New Hampshire Avenue, an 9:30 a.m. in the 6700 block of Conway On January 8 at 6:10 p.m. in the 6700 blk. of Cole Avenue a stolen 2002 Isuzu adult male was charged with Drinking Avenue, a burglary occurred. The lock on a block of Gude Drive, two theft from XL7 truck was recovered. The two sus- an Alcoholic Beverage in Public. shed door was broken. Property was taken. vehicles occurred. Windows of a 2002 pects used the vehicle’s keys to steal the On January 11 at 8:15 am in the 600 Between December 24, midnight and Honda CRV and a 2003 Mazda MPV were vehicle. The suspects fled from a Takoma block of Houston Avenue, an adult December 26, 8:37 a.m., in the 7500 block smashed to gain entry. Property was taken Park Officer after a brief pursuit. No ar- male was arrested and charged with from both. rests were made. 2nd Degree Assault and Violation of a Between January 7 at 8 p.m. and Janu- On December 27 between noon and 3 Protective Order. ary 8 at 9:50 a.m. in the 7400 block of p.m., in the 7300 blk. of New Hampshire On December 31 at 9:44 p.m. in the Call for 7300 block of New Hampshire Avenue, Volunteers four juvenile males were arrested after The Firehouse Report a routine traffic stop when a computer If you are interested check showed their vehicle to have been in becoming a member of The Takoma Park Fire Department reported stolen in Washington, D.C. TPVFD, please contact responded in 2005 to 1,107 fire-related They were charged with Auto Theft, incidents and 2,598 rescue or ambulance- Theft over $500 and Unauthorized Use the fire station at related incidents, for a grand total of 3,705. of a Motor Vehicle. 301-270-8209. This is an increase of six incidents in com- On January 1 at 1:09 a.m. in the 500 parison to totals of 2004 - 1,197 and 2,592 - for a block of Albany Avenue, an adult male grand total of 3,699. was arrested and charged with Posses- During 2005, there were two serious fires in Takoma Park, resulting in major sion of Drug Paraphernalia, Violation damage to two homes. Unattended cooking, smoking materials, electrical and of License Restriction, Driving Under heating appliances still lead in causes of home fires. We all need to do our part in this the Influence of Alcohol and Driving New Year to have no serious fires. We must have a fire escape plan for the entire family, and working smoke While Impaired by Alcohol. alarms on all levels of the home. Have a Fire Safe New Year, from all the men and women at Fire Station 2. On January 2 at 1:03 a.m. at the intersection of New Hampshire Av- enue and Larch Avenue, an adult male Free Visual Smoke Alarms Available Dinners for Needy Families was arrested and charged with Driv- If you know that someone who is deaf or hard of On November 23 Takoma Park VFD members Bob ing Under the Influence of Alcohol and hearing could use a free visual smoke alarm, please Jarboe, Dave Hooker, and Jim Jarboe picked up and Driving While Impaired by Alcohol. contact the Takoma Park VFD at 301-270-8208. We will delivered 31 turkey dinners to families throughout the On December 27, at 6:15 p.m., in deliver, and install. area. A special thanks again to the following organiza- the 900 blk. of Merrimac Dr., an adult tions for donating money to purchase dinners: Takoma male was arrested and charged with Blood Drive Scheduled Park VFD, Takoma Park Lions Club, Takoma Park VFW shoplifting. The Takoma Park Volunteer Fire Department, in part- Post 350, and the American Legion Post 41 Auxiliary. This On December 18 at 11:27 p.m. in the nership with the Takoma Park Lions Club, is sponsoring marked the 11th year for the annual event. 8000 block of Flower Avenue, an adult male was arrested and charged with a Blood Drive Monday, January 23 at the Takoma Park Toys for Needy Children Driving Under the Influence of Alco- Community Center, from 3 to 8 p.m. The Takoma Park VFD celebrated its 25th year collecting hol, Driving while Impaired by Alco- and distributing toys to children throughout Takoma Park. hol and Driving Without License. Baby Sitters in Training Special thanks to the Takoma Park Lions Club for being a On December 16 at 12:14 a.m. in the The next training class will start on Monday, February 6. partner for the past 11 years. And thanks to the North Silver 1000 block of East West Highway, an Classes will be held at the Takoma Park Community Spring Lions Club for donating toys, and to R.S. Automotive adult male was arrested and charged Center on Monday evenings, from 7-9 p.m. for sitters ages and the Lions Club for funds for additional toys. Thanks with 2nd Degree Assault, Disorderly 11 to 13 years. Sitters must attend all six sessions to receive also to volunteers Mike DeVore, Bob Jarboe, and Jim Jarboe, conduct and Disorderly Intoxication. credit. Topics include fire safety, infant and child care, TPVFD; Keith Van Ness, TPLC; Pat Van Ness, NSSLC; and On December 18 at 2:20 a.m. in the CPR, first aid and personal safety. If interested, please PFC Tina Smith, Sgt. Mark Hammond, Det. Cyndy Conrad 7300 block of Takoma Avenue, an contact the City Recreation Department. and Diana Dean, TPPD. A job well done! Arrests continued on page 10 Takoma Park Newsletter February 2 0 0 6 Page 9 Busted: Underage Drinking Parties are Illegal Police News Takoma Park Police have responded to several incidents over the last few months in which juveniles have been drinking alcohol. Such gatherings can result in referral to the juvenile courts and have academic repercussions. In two Minivans, SUVs, Hondas incidents, the youths’ high school learned of the parties and reported the students in jeopardy of suspension. Remain Theft Targets When police encounter youth who have been drinking, they identify them For most of 2005, vehicle theft reports decreased, an encouraging trend that through field investigation reports and their parents are called to pick them up. began in 2003. But the final quarter of the year saw a significant increase in vehicle theft. A preliminary review of the vehicle theft reveals that the prey of Any subsequent involvement with the police can result in citations and referral to choice remains the minivan and Honda models, with SUVs, trucks, and police- the Juvenile Justice System. type vehicles increasingly seen as targets. In December on a school snow-day, officers were called to a North Takoma In the first nine months of 2005, the police took 117 vehicle theft reports, an home where nearly two dozen youth were partying. The residence’s supervising 11 percent decrease from the same period in 2003 and four percent less than adult was at work. More than 20 youth had been drinking, were field interviewed, 2004. The final three months were a different story, with a total of 67 reports and their parents were called to pick them up. The host was charged with taken, twice the number in the final quarter of 2003. Most of these reports underage possession. Because this was not the Department’s first involvement came from eastern Takoma Park, police beats V3, X7 and X8 (Wards 3 and 6). with him, officers requested that Juvenile Justice charge him further. The suburban minivan remains a preferred target, with at least 14 Dodge Caravans and Plymouth Voyagers stolen. Honda vehicles were equally popular with Civics Blair High School, which many of these youth attend, indicated the students and Accords accounting for 13 and 10 reports respectively. would be subject to suspension. Reactions among parents have been mixed: A combination of various SUV makes and models accounts for 14 additional Officers report that some were more concerned with police interviewing their vehicle thefts. Targets ranged from the Honda CRV to the Mercedes ML43 and children than with illegal alcohol consumption. Others indicated their children included six Jeep products. An additional eight trucks were also taken. Police-type would face consequences at home. A number of residents have requested a more vehicles (Grand Marquise and Crown Victoria) accounted for seven thefts. aggressive police department response to underage drinking. The Maryland Vehicle Theft Prevention Council recommends that every Consumption of alcohol by persons under the age of 21 is illegal, except for that vehicle should be equipped with at least one level of security in addition to the involved in a religious observance. It should be noted that minors who are drinking manufacturer’s locks. Models that are such popular targets should use secondary security every time they are parked. are often also in possession of drugs, commonly marijuana, and tobacco; they can The Council recommends a steering wheel lock as an easily used, inexpensive be arrested for possession of drugs, drug paraphernalia, or tobacco. Persons with option. The lock is an effective deterrent to theft. Often referred to as a “Club,” after knowledge of underage drinking parties can report incidents to 301-270-1100 and the most well-known brand, a steering wheel lock is a bar, hooked onto the steering officers will be dispatched to any incident in progress. wheel of a parked vehicle, making steering difficult if not impossible. The Police Department offers a steering wheel lock, usable on most makes and Illegal Drinking: a Primer models, for $10, a significant discount off the retail price. These locks may be If you are under 21 it is illegal to drive or attempt to drive a motor vehicle purchased at the police station at any time. Persons seeking to buy one outside regular business hours should speak with the Dispatcher on duty and bring exact payment. with 0.02 percent or more blood alcohol (that’s less than one drink!). If you do, you The COP Team continues to be available to make presentations to community may be fined $500 and your license may be suspended for one year. groups of any size on the practices that can contribute to auto theft prevention. To In 2004, 15 people died in Montgomery County in automobile crashes schedule a program, contact him at 301-891-7124. involving drivers under age 21. Forty percent of those crashes involved alcohol. Most of the suspects arrested last year for vehicle theft were identified by officers on If you are under age 21 and are found in possession of alcohol, are in a car with routine patrol or traffic enforcement. Residents can assist by reporting suspicious alcohol or are where alcohol is served, you can receive a civil citation even if you behaviors related to auto thefts. Examples of suspicious behavior related to auto theft are: were not holding the alcohol. If under 18, your parents will be notified and you •someone quickly parking a car and getting into another waiting vehicle may be fined up to $500 for a first offense and up to $1,000 for a second offense. •poorly parked cars not regularly seen in the area, Youth and parent can be required to attend driver safety or alcohol education •a stranger changing tags on a car, or •a vehicle with multiple riders slowly cruising an area. classes ($40-90). If you see someone “drop” a vehicle and hurry to a waiting vehicle, it is useful to If you are 18-20 years old, you will be required to appear in court ($20 court provide a description of the fleeing vehicle (make, model, color, distinctive elements cost, $30 injury compensation board and $500-2,000 for a lawyer). You may be like body damage and — ideally — a license plate number). fined up to $500 for first offense or up to $1,000 for a second offense. You may be required to do community service hours ($150). You may be placed on probation ($25 per month) or mandatory urinalysis ($50 each). Deceased Found On Tuesday, Jan. 3, a man was located deceased in the stairway to the rear of a If you present a false I.D. or an I.D. that is not your own to purchase alcoholic commercial building in the 1300 block of University Boulevard. The 29-year-old Hyattsville beverages or to gain entry to a bar where alcohol is sold you may receive a civil man, a native of Guatemala, has been identified but release of his name is being withheld citation and face the above penalties. You may receive a traffic summons for until notification of next of kin. possession or displaying a false or altered driver’s license. The medical examiner found the death was caused by alcohol intoxication complicated by hypothermia. There was no indication of foul play. If you receive a traffic summons, you must appear in court and you will need legal representation. If you are found guilty, you may be jailed for up to two months and/or fined up to $500 and you may receive 12 points on your driver’s license. (12 points Parking, Sidewalks means you will lose your license.) and Snow Storms If you possess intoxicating beverages on school grounds, your driving Vehicles parked on snow emergency routes may be ticketed and towed. These privilege will be suspended for 30 to 90 days. routes, posted with signs as snow emergency routes, include most state highways A violation of these laws could follow a youth for the rest of a life. Many job and through the city. The city follows the county’s designation of snow emergencies. college applications ask about arrests and those who have been arrested must Police officers exercise discretion on parking violations during snow emergen- answer truthfully. Some employers who require security clearances for employ- cies. Generally during emergencies, the state rule prohibiting parking with “left ees can request a court order to open even juvenile records. wheels to curb” is not enforced. If possible, backing into a parking space can make exiting easier. If a vehicle is parked in a way that obstructs other traffic (too close Repercussions for Adults to an intersection or in other unsafe ways) a ticket may be issued. If you are tempted to abandon a stranded vehicle, a phone call to Police An adult found guilty of obtaining alcohol for a minor or allowing a Communication (301-270-1100) is advised. Courtesy might be extended or an minor other than their own child to drink in their home can be fined $500. officer can advise whether you need to call a towing company. An adult convicted of contributing to the delinquency or a violation Some city streets, by residents’ petition, become sledding streets; by a minor (a criminal charge) could be fined up to $2,500 and spend three be aware of these in planning your route. years in jail. The minor need not be convicted or found delinquent for the City Sidewalks adult to be held responsible. Snow and ice must be removed from city sidewalks by 7 p.m. on the day it Parents are responsible for their child’s behavior. Parents can be accumulated, or four hours after daybreak on the day of accumulation, which- required to pay up to $10,000 for damage done by their child. ever is later. Residential, rental and commercial properties must adhere to these If someone is injured as a result of a child’s drinking, the child and his or rules, and the sidewalks in front of commercial establishments must be cleared her parents can be sued. Adults can also be sued for allowing minors to drink of snow and ice between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. in their home, or for injury resulting from what they allowed to take place. Police News continued on page 11 Page 1 0 February 2 0 0 6 Takoma Park Newsletter

Police News continued from page 9 Speed, Lack of Attention Rent Stabilization: Affect Winter Collisions Opportunity to Comment The image of a winter accident is of a speeds required when posted or if con- The Takoma Park City Council will also welcome to attend the Council dark and stormy night with the pave- ditions warrant. continue its review of rent stabiliza- meetings. The following aspects of rent ment wet with sleet and snow obscuring Winter Safe Driving Tips tion beginning this month. We en- stabilization will be considered during visibility. The reality of winter vehicle courage you to become a part of this the months of January and February Turn on headlights when precipita- collisions in Takoma Park contrasts with discussion. You may submit your 2006: annual rent increase allowance, that picture. Most collisions actually tion requires use of windshield wipers: this is a safety precaution and state law. comments in writing to the City Jan. 23; rent increases upon vacancy happen in clear weather during the day Clerk at 7500 Maple Avenue, and exemptions from rent stabilization, with the causes being failure to give full Before starting a car, be certain the Takoma Park MD 20912 or by email Feb. 6; and the capital improvement time and attention to driving or moving wipers are not frozen to the glass. Con- to [email protected]. You are rent increase petition, Feb. 21. too fast for conditions. sider installing winter wiper blades. A review of accident reports from Before driving, remove all ice and For more information, contact Linda Walker, 301-891-7222. January through March 2005 reveals snow from the vehicle and windows. that more than 60 percent of Takoma Snow on the hood and front fenders Park’s 68 motor vehicle collisions took makes it hard to judge distances; it can Arrests continued from page 8 place during the daytime. Fully half obscure lights; snow and ice flying off a were the result of failure to pay full car roof is a hazard for other motorists. adult female and two adult males his money. The victim again ran off attention to driving. Officers observe Chains, snow tires or radials must were arrested and charged with Pos- and noticed a police officer in a that in bad weather motorists pay more be used on designated snow emergency session of CDS and Possession of parked cruiser and ran to him for attention to their driving, compensat- routes when an emergency is declared. CDS Paraphernalia. help. Three of the subjects were ap- ing for the conditions. All-season tires are recommended for all On December 18 at 8:48 p.m. at prehended. Speed clearly contributes to the num- four wheels on a front-wheel drive cars. the intersection of Wildwood On December 12 at 4:08 a.m. in the 7700 block of Garland Avenue, bers, with three out of five collisions Adjusting your speed to the con- Drive and Lancaster Avenue, three juvenile males were arrested and an adult male was arrested and occurring on streets with the highest ditions of the roadway and surround- charged with Attempted Armed charged with Driving Under the In- posted limits and speeds: New Hamp- ing vehicles is the most vital factor in Robbery, 1st Degree Assault and fluence of Alcohol. He was also shire Avenue, University Boulevard, safe winter driving. 2nd Degree Assault after an adult served with an open Montgomery Piney Branch Road and Hwy. 410. Comply with posted speeds; male reported that he had been County warrant for Failure to Ap- The highest legal speed in the City is 25 mph is the maximum on most confronted by four subjects in the pear in court on a charge of Open 35 mph, allowed only on New Hamp- City streets. 7300 block of New Hampshire Av- Alcohol Container. shire Avenue and University Boulevard. Don’t use a wireless phone enue. They demanded money and On December 2 at 10:54 a.m. in the Sections of Hwy. 410 and Piney Branch while driving. threatened to hit him with sticks. 7400 block of Baltimore Avenue, an Road allow a maximum of 30 mph. Consider conditions: drop When the victim refused and ran, adult male was arrested on an open Most Takoma Park residential streets your speed on wet or leafy streets one of the subjects followed him, Montgomery County warrant for 4th are posted for 25 mph, with lower and at night. displaying a gun and demanding Degree Burglary.

Skateboard Park continued from page 1 Skaters take to the street on Ellsworth Drive in Silver Spring, Takoma Park could become "an interim where a temporary skate park regional facility," says Kreger, though was torn down for development. he does not see it as a substitute for Planners are looking for another what was meant to draw users from a site. Below left, Ele Rubenstein broader area. does a hippie jump over caution If we build, who will pay? tape; below, right Tyler Kelly Here the Takoma Park skatepark goes “boneless” with makeshift funding takes a new twist. If a city park obstacles. attracts people from all over the county, should the county pay for it? Takoma Park already pays for its own recre- ation programs, and county tax rebates for recreation are iffy at best (see Sept. 2005 Takoma Park Newsletter). "We might

be the neighborhood that's willing PHOTO BY JESSICA YEH to take [the park] on," suggests councilmember Marc Elrich. "We can take it, they [the county] can fund it." But if the county is willing to pay $75,000 for skate park equipment, "why and Haiduven warns that look a gift horse in the mouth?" won- costs could go as high as ders councilmember Joy Austin Lane. $90,000 when necessary The project could be a pilot; if it didn't management personnel are work out it would be $75,000 plus the included. For now, it seems city's $50,000 well spent, for the year. Council will wait to see if Because the skate park came up past Silver Spring is going to 11 p.m. during the council's work ses- build a park, and queries sion, Council decided to postpone fur- will be made into county ther discussion; it did approve funding for operational Haiduven's continued pursuit of the costs of a Takoma Park fa- park in Takoma-Piney Branch, but cility. stopped short of agreeing to budget In the mean time, watch $50,000 in operational costs. The issue out for skaters in search of will resurface during budget meetings, ramps, rails and stairs. PHOTO BY SAM RICCI PHOTO BY SAM RICCI C

Takoma Park Newsletter February 2 0 0 6 Page 1 1

Takoma Park City TV Events in Febuary 2006

Music, basketball, gang forum featured

City TV will be showcasing some of the area’s finest performers as we play music from Takoma Park’s Jazz Fest, Taste of Takoma, Street Festival and other events. Other Special Local Events will include the replays of the Second Town Hall on Gang Violence and the YES League Basketball Championships. In January, City TV recorded the City’s annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Celebration, and this will be cablecast later in the month. Newly released Folk Festival performances from the 27th Annual Folk Festival festival include: Iona plus A Bunch of Ballads; and Smooth Kentucky plus Joni Mitchell Tribute. Takoma Snapshots in February includes: The Golden Roscoe Award, recognizing exceptional holiday window • Community Oriented Policing: The Right Direction: Driving Tips display, went to S&A Beads at the Old Takoma Business Association Visit our Web site at www.cityoftakomapark.org/cable to access show holiday party. From left, employees Ann Scher, and Cheryl Moody, owner Larry Silverman,and employee Therese Robinson. listings and times and other specific programming information. Community and neighborhood groups may submit non-commercial no- tices regarding meetings or special events to City TV for inclusion on the bulletin board. Clarification All Council meetings and Snapshots episodes are available for patron check Public Works would like to clarify that, in case of snow, out at the Takoma Park Maryland Library. VHS Tapes of these shows, as well all sidewalks not only in front of but adjacent to as other Takoma Park City TV events, may be purchased for $15 (pick up) or a property are the responsibility of the property owner $18 (mail). Some programs are now available in DVD. Call 301-891-7118 or and must be cleared of snow and ice. send an email to [email protected] for more information. Help Your Neighbors in Need Takoma Park City TV maintained an agreement with By Linda Walker, Adventist Community Services of Febuary 2006 Programming Schedule Manager - Office on Greater Washington, Inc. to adminis- Landlord-Tenant Affairs trate this program. Recipients often Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday With so much suffering and need Community The Road to Takoma Park Community Takoma Community Community are referrals from the City’s Landlord- 7:00 AM Bulletin Board Recovery City TV Local Bulletin Board Snapshots Bulletin Board Bulletin Board in other parts of the country and the Tenant Office, but many residents go Events 8:00 AM Takoma Park PreSchool Takoma Park Community Takoma Park Takoma Park Snapshots Power! Snapshots Bulletin Board Folk Festival Snapshots world, we often don’t realize that directly to this well-known commu- there are those right here in our own nity service center themselves. 9:00 AM Takoma Park Takoma Park National Coffeehouse NASA Haiti a Suivre Folk Festival Snapshots Gallery of Art Programming community facing financial crises Ron Wylie, Executive Director of each and every day of their lives. For Adventist Community Services, states 10:00 AM CoffeehouseCity Council Music da Government Takoma Park Coffeehouse Meeting camera Focus Snapshots this reason, the Takoma Park Emer- he would welcome seeing this fund (REPLAY) 11:00 AM Takoma Park CaribNationTakoma Park National Takoma Park Media Watch gency Assistance Fund was created grow, as the need is so great. Although City TV Local Folk Festival Gallery of Art City TV Local on Hunger Events Events by the City Council in 2001. This more than $5,000 was distributed to Community NOON Bulletin Board City Council fund helps residents of Takoma Park Takoma Park residents last year, seri- Meeting 1:00 PM The Road to Takoma Park Takoma Park (REPLAY) Takoma Park who are experiencing crises such as ous cuts in FEMA money will now Recovery City TV Local City TV Local Folk Festival Events Events health issues, pending evictions, or reduce federal and county funding 2:00 PM Media Watch Takoma Park Media Watch on Hunger Folk Festival on Hunger notice of a utility cut off, often due to they receive this year.

3:00 PM Takoma Park Music da Takoma Park loss of employment or financial cir- You can help those in need by con- Snapshots NASA camera City TV Local Programming Events cumstances beyond their control. tributing to the Takoma Park Emer- 4:00 PM PreSchool Takoma Park CoffeehouseTakoma Park Haiti a Suivre Power Snapshots Folk Festival Donations made to the Takoma Park gency Assistance Fund. Please use

5:00 PM Music da Takoma Park Government Haiti a Suivre Takoma Emergency Assistance Fund are tax- the form provided below to send in camera Snapshots Focus Snapshots deductible and are sent by the City to your contribution. A letter acknowl- 5:30 PM Chinese News a designated non-profit organization edging your donation will be sent to Community Chinese Community Takoma Park Community Community 6:00 PM Bulletin Board News Bulletin Board Snapshots Bulletin Board Bulletin Board which distributes the money based on you. We thank you for supporting the availability of funds and the pre- this program and the service that it National sented need. Since 2003, the City has 7:00 PM Gallery of Art Takoma Park Takoma Park Coffeehouse Takoma Park provides to the community. Snapshots City TV Local Snapshots 7:30 PM City Council Events Meeting 8:00 PM (LIVE) Coffeehouse City Council Takoma Park Takoma Park Takoma Park Please detach and send to City of Takoma Park Emergency Assistance Fund, Meeting Folk Festival City TV Local Folk Festival (REPLAY) Events Finance Office, 7500 Maple Avenue, Takoma Park, Maryland, 20912. Takoma Park 9:00 PM Takoma Park Folk Festival For questions, call 301- 891-7222 City TV Local 10:00 PM Events Haiti a Suivre Haiti a Suivre Coffeehouse I wish to donate $______to the Emergency Assistance Fund. Coffeehouse 11:00 PM CaribNation Takoma Park Takoma Park Takoma Park Check should be made out to “City of Takoma Park” NASA City TV Haiti a Suivre Folk Festival City TV Local 12:00 Takoma Park Programming Takoma Park Special Events Midnight Snapshots Snapshots Events Name and Address of Contributor:

1:00 AM Road to Community Recovery Bulletin Board ______Programming subject to change without notice. ______Takoma Park City TV ______7500 Maple Avenue Email: [email protected] Takoma Park, MD 20912 Web: www.cityoftakomapark.org/cable You will receive a letter acknowledging your donation within 30 days of receipt. 301-891-7118 Thank you for supporting this program and the service it provides to the community. Page 1 2 February 2 0 0 6 Takoma Park Newsletter

City Forever for Ida Summy Community Center Celebration “I’ve accumulated filing cabinets On road materials.... and the serious study of Music before I get too old. One saving grace in the fight to save my own home...” Etta Mae Davis “O I won’t live way out in the country,” B wrote, “We’ll never have any neighbors and nobody’ll be able to find us.” High up, near heaven, Each Citizen of the Moment whose vision To such of his friends as desired country Houses I have heard him say and as he saw a growth Of stunted pine and scrub growth Tied with no end of briar and poison vines, One settler: seventy houses, five stores, And a meeting hall,

Ida Summy at the Hillman House Over a game of cards suggesting “k”, not to mistake it with Tacoma, Washington, he, a great stickler for pure water, cure For all the ill flesh receives, As of ideas, I have heard him say it was while he was in Local government officials gather to cut the ribbon on the much-heralded Takoma Park Community Search of a spring Center at the Grand Opening Event, December 11. From left, Steve Silverman, Nancy Floreen, Which he found, Doug Barry, Bruce Williams, Sheila Hixson, Peter Franchot, and Ida Ruben. An affordable elegance, stressing the railroad.

We meet Here at the arrival of And introduced to, join Into the company Or presence, of experience, To undergo, deal with, or oppose, Into conformity With the wishes, And assemble to occur together In one person Maybe, here,

The ribbon’s Real chance of it Being cut, the Center Glad you’re in it, Part of an object surrounded by the rest, For he who makes two blades of grass grow, the ways Balloons add to Don Berger, the city poet laurate, reads a poem Named for trees set under the forest trees with singing birds, the festivities. composed for the occasion. Gathering places, figures Named again and brought from earlier, Frame church in a field at Piney Branch, Pamela Favorite, and Favorite’s Store, The streetcar at Wildwood, Our Lady of Sorrows, White elephants and firetraps, Joseph Colea’s Progress Market —

Look, it’s Margaret, Leona, Joseph and Frank Colea, and unidentified man. It’s Hallie Mooers with masks, Hallie Mooers With the pet crow, Morrison in his Back Acres azalea garden in Pass Christian Same as today, suited to azalea culture and because Dr. E. Clyde Smith (with sword) sang the part of KoKo, Mr. Huck made the beautiful paper ornaments, “Mr. Lee” sang to the young, The William Orton family in a touring car, paused, it feels, At the whistle of Annie Cotton.

Air of the mountains, Health of the pines, You will find twelve rooms From the daily cares In the loud room And the quiet. A sprung wooden floor and mirrors, Chairs, good light, A large screen, Sinks and a kiln. This poem was written by Takoma Park Poet Laureate Don Berger, on the Takoma Park residents check out the new Community Center, officially opened in December. occasion of the grand opening of the Community Center, December 11.