Takoma Park Newsletter Is Published 12 Sure

February 2021 TAKOMAPARK A newsletter published by the City of Takoma Park, Maryland Volume 60, No. 2 n takomaparkmd.gov

New businesses rise during pandemic By Sean Gossard While the pandemic continues across the country, more and more businesses struggle to survive in the New and improved new normal. But all news isn’t so Approved Tree bleak. Several new businesses have been able to open all around Takoma Species List released Park. From restaurants to hair stu- dios, entrepreneurs have been work- The Public Works Department is WHAT’S ing hard to provide jobs and services excited to announce the completion to residents in the city. of a new and improved Approved NEW? In May, Trattoria da Lina owner Tree Species List to guide tree plant- Marcello “Mitch” Minna opened ing efforts in the City. The list’s main Black History Program Carpe Diem Pizza at 7000 Carroll function is to specify which trees the Ave. “You give your word and tell City has approved for planting and Honoring Lee Jordan for replacement plantings required people you’ll do certain things,” said Hair studio Sugar Braids has implement- Details, page 4 for residents to receive Tree Removal ed precautions to keep both customers Permits. Our hope is that this list can NEW BUSINESSES n Page 3 and employees safe. Changes to Stormwater Utility also serve as a resource for all resi- Fee Rate Being Considered dents interested in planting trees. Details, page 9 The list documents a broad selection of tree species native to Maryland COVID Vaccine Q & A as well as some found more broadly page 10 in the Eastern United States that are well-suited for planting in Takoma City Offices & Park. With this list, we hope that residents will be come more aware Facilities Closed of native species options suited for a Sunday, Feb. 14 - Monday, Feb. 15 variety of planting sites and design President's Day holiday goals. If your site is wet or dry, shady, or sunny, and your design goals are Trash/Recycling Collection to provide shade, privacy, flowers, Yard waste collection canceled food, or wildlife benefits, then the list Monday, Feb. 15 should have a tree for you. Look for this Icon While the list provides several Credit: autoevolution.com helpful traits about each tree species, throughout this for the sake of brevity, it does not at- issue tempt to cover every detail. Some See page 10 Curbside electric vehicle charging additional traits you may want to consider may include the tree’s ex- permits now available pected lifespan, its growth rate, its rooting habit, and what specific ser- Residents thinking about buying an permit option for curbside electric vehicle Takoma Park, MD 20912 Maple Ave. 7500 Mayor & Council vices it may provide to native wild- electric vehicle but who don’t have a ga- chargers. The new permit is available to life. Additionally, it is important that rage, driveway, or parking pad where they residents who do not have any off-street species selection occur along with a can install a charger now have a solution. holistic approach to designing your Takoma Park is offering residents a new CHARGING PERMITS n Page 3 landscape. How will the quality of the soil be improved or maintained?

ECRWSS POSTAL CUSTOMER What potential future landscape or construction work might impact the roots of the tree? What activities near the tree might lead to increased soil compaction? It can be valuable to work with local extension agents, landscape designers, and arborists to appropriately plan for trees in your landscape. With increasing urbanization and development, natural forest commu- nities are experiencing elevated pres- PRE-SORT STANDARD TAKOMA PARK, MD

PERMIT NO. 4422 TREE SPECIES n Page 3 U.S. POSTAGE PAID The Transformation of Mindfulness New Bubble Bar Inside B.Y. Morrison Park for Teens on Carroll Ave. Page 5 Page 7 Page 11 CMYK DOCKET City Council & Committee CityCouncilAction Calendar

REMOTE/VIRTUAL MEETINGS CONTINUE We expect that meetings will continue to take place in a remote/virtual format into the new year. For the most current information, visit www.takomaparkmd.gov and PUBLIC HEARINGS click on “Events and Meetings.” Information on any meetings taking place will be published there along with information on how the public can observe. Wednesday, February 24, 7:30 p.m. COMMENTING AT CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS The City Council will hold public hearings on Wednesday, February 24, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Individuals interested in commenting live during City Council meetings must sign up by 5 p.m. on the day of 1. Public Hearing to take comments on a series of traffic calming requests. the meeting. The link to sign up will be published on the 2. Public Hearing on the proposed new Stormwater Management Fee System. calendar and on the City Council agenda page. Written comments sent by email or U.S. mail will be shared with Residents are encouraged to sign up to comment at the public hearings. the full Council. (The link to sign up will be found on the Council agenda page of the website.) CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS IN FEBRUARY • Wednesday, February 3, 7:30 p.m., City Council Regular Meeting • Wednesday, February 10, 6 p.m., City Council to hear presentation on Bibliotecha Remote Library Locker System VIRTUAL CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS • Wednesday, February 10, 7:30 p.m., City Council Regular Meeting Due to the public health crisis, the City Council has been meeting remotely by video conference. • Wednesday, February 17, 7:30 p.m., City Council Regular This will continue as long as necessary. The meetings are available to watch live (or view Meeting afterwards) in all the usual ways: • Wednesday, February 24, 7:30 p.m., City Council Regular Meeting • on the City Council Video Page of the City Website • Wednesday, March 3, 7:30 p.m., City Council Regular (https:/takomaparkmd.gov/government/city-council/ Meeting meetings-and-documents/city-council-video) CITY BOARD, COMMISSION, AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS Meetings will be held remotely for the duration of the • on City TV public health crisis. (RCN - Channel 13, HD Channel 1060 Comcast/xfinity - Channel 13 BOARD OF ELECTIONS Verizon Fios - Channel 28) Thursday, February 11, 7 p.m. • on Facebook COMPLETE SAFE STREETS COMMITTEE (@TakomaParkMD/) Thursday, February 11, 7 p.m. • on YouTube EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS COMMITTEE Thursday, February 25, 7 p.m. (https://www.youtube.com/user/TakomaParkTV) FACADE ADVISORY BOARD The public can comment live during the public comment portions of the meetings by registering Tuesday, February 9, 6:30 p.m. and logging into the video conference. The link will be provided by weekly email from the City GRANTS REVIEW COMMITTEE Clerk and on the City website. For those not able to do so, written comments may be sent by email Wednesday, March 3, 6:30 p.m. to [email protected] to be circulated to the Council. NUCLEAR-FREE TAKOMA PARK COMMITTEE Tuesday, February 9, 7:30 p.m. PARKING MANAGEMENT TASK FORCE Thursday, February 4, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, February 18, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 4, 7:30 p.m. Important City Department Phone Numbers POLICE CHIEF’S ADVISORY BOARD City Information...... 301-891-7100 Monday, February 22, 7 p.m. City Clerk...... 301-891-7267 RECREATION COMMITTEE City Manager...... 301-891-7229 Thursday, February 18, 7 p.m. Finance...... 301-891-7212 TREE COMMISSION MEETING Tuesday, February 9, 6:30 p.m. Housing & Community Development...... 301-891-7119 YOUTH COUNCIL Library...... 301-891-7259 Sunday, February 14, 3:30 p.m. Neighborhood Services...... 301-891-7113 Sunday, February 28, 3:30 p.m. Police...... 301-270-1100 / Emergency 911 Individuals interested in receiving a weekly Council agenda and calendar update by e-mail can sign up by Public Works...... 301-891-7633 sending an email to [email protected]. Recreation/Facilities Rental...... 301-891-7290 ADA NOTICE The City of Takoma Park is committed to ensuring that individuals with disabilities are able to fully participate in public meetings. Anyone with a disability who wishes to receive auxiliary aids, services, or accommodations at a City of Takoma Park public meeting or public hearing is invited to contact Jessie Carpenter, City Clerk, at [email protected] or 301-891-7267 at least 48 hours in advance.

Page 2 n Takoma Park News February 2021 NEW BUSINESSES salon Sugar Braids (www.sugarbraid.com) at 1019 Uni- n From page 1 versity Blvd. to cater to the black women with natural hair. Opening a hair studio during a pandemic may seem Minna. “Since I opened the pizzeria, I’ve been able to give risky, but Djeukam has implemented several precautions people jobs.” to keep both customers and employees safe. However, things haven’t been easy since opening with “We have the place divided into rooms, and no more the loss of revenue from alcohol sales hitting especially than two people are in the room at once,” she explained. hard. The restaurant industry usually faces especially “We also wear masks while working, do temperature tight profit margins. “We lost almost all the alcohol sales, checks and try to keep the long braiding process as short so going from $25,000 a month in alcohol sales to about as possible.” $1,000 a month,” Minna said. On Google reviews, one customer said of Sugar Braids: He did think about opening an outside dining area, “I 100% recommend this place especially during COVID but quickly realized it wasn’t a great business decision for where everywhere was tidy, masks were worn the whole him. “[To offer] outdoor dining the way it’s supposed to time, and each time they left the room and came back, be, you have to invest a lot of money in it,” Minna said, they washed their hands. I will definitely be coming back “so the idea of investing money into something that I was and recommend you to do your hair here!” hoping [would] go away wasn’t great.” For now, the best thing the community can do is con- Carpe Diem offers authentic Neapolitan pizza and oth- tinue to support local businesses any way they can. “Our er Italian cuisine alongside an array of wines. small businesses continue to struggle and need the com- On Yelp! Hillary H. said of Carpe Diem: “Really, truly, Neapolitan pizza from Carpe Diem munity’s continued support,” said Laura Barclay, execu- honestly — this is as close as you’re going to get to au- tive director of the Old Takoma Business Association. thentic, Neapolitan pizza in the area. It’s so very, very “Making purchases, taking online classes, ordering take- legit.” order from Carpe Diem, visit tdl-cdp.square.site. (Read out, getting services done and purchasing gift cards will Minna still remains optimistic about things to come. about another new addition to Takoma Park’s restaurant all help ensure that our businesses make it through this “Rome was not built overnight, so right now we have a scene on page 11 of this issue.) difficult time.” good start for reconstructing America better,” he said. To In September, Gaelle Laure Djeukam opened beauty

CHARGING PERMITS Research has shown that while public n From page 1 infrastructure is necessary, home charg- 2021 Tax Filing Season ing accounts for about 75 to 80 percent parking options, such as a garage or of EV owners charging (Source: www. Begins February 12, 2021 driveway. mckinsey.com/industries/automotive- Chargers may be placed in front of the and-assembly/our-insights/charging- The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) an- Virtual VITA allows residents to use vehicle owner’s home where there is ex- ahead-electric-vehicle-infrastructure- nounced that the nation’s tax season will an online platform to securely upload isting street parking and adequate space demand#). Simply put, without the ability begin on Friday, February 12, 2021. The their tax documents and have their ‘tax- next to the curb (right-of-way) for the to charge their car at home, most people tax agency will accept and process 2020 es prepared for free by a certified tax pre- charger to be installed. The charger must will not choose an electric vehicle. tax year returns on this date for indi- parer. No in-person contact is required, tie into the home’s own electricity meter Home EV chargers are Level 1 or Lev- vidual tax return filers. The IRS is taking allowing for the health and safety of staff and is at the sole expense of the owner. To el 2 chargers with a small size and can time to do additional programming and and community members to be main- support the transition to a net-zero emis- be mounted on a 4 x 4 wooden post or testing of systems following the Decem- tained. sions community by 2035, there is no metal pole. The sustainability manager ber 27 tax law changes that resulted in a The VITA program is scheduling vir- fee for this new permit. All permit hold- has developed installation guidelines for second round of stimulus payments and tual appointments now for the prior ers are required to obtain a Montgomery owners based on recommendations from other benefits. year (2018) amended taxes, as well as County EV electrical permit, comply with other cities, Montgomery County, and ad- The IRS is encouraging taxpayers to file 2019 taxes. VITA provides free filing the Takoma Park Tree Ordinance, and vocacy organizations. Currently, there is electronically with direct deposit. Tax fil- service for federal and state taxes. They meet all installation guidelines provided no local regulation to prevent cars from ers can begin filing their taxes immediately also help with completing taxes for indi- by the City. blocking an on-street private EV charger. although the returns will not be transmit- viduals with Individual Tax Identification Transportation accounts for half of This may change. If you would like to ted until February 12. If you need help Numbers (ITIN). Montgomery County greenhouse gas emissions in Takoma share your opinion on how Takoma Park with filing your taxes, the Community Ac- residents with household incomes of Park. Of these emissions, personal ve- should or should not regulate parking tion Agency’s Volunteer Income Tax Assis- $57,000 or less may call 240-777-1123 to hicles contribute a large portion. Takoma for private on-street EV chargers, please tance (VITA) program is currently using a schedule an appointment. Park City Council has prioritized reduc- email [email protected]. There virtual tax preparation model. ing all greenhouse gas emissions and has may be some situations where alternative adopted a goal of reaching net zero emis- placement is considered. The City has the sions by 2035. To achieve this goal, the right to refuse a permit if conditions can- Join us for a Community Conversation on our City must do everything it can to facili- not be met or for reasons not listed. Any tate the switch from internal combustion refusal will be explained. Full details and journey for the next City Manager vehicles in its own fleet and city-wide, the permit application can be found at ta- while simultaneously working at the state komaparkmd.gov/services/permits/curb- The Takoma Park City Council is interested in getting feedback from you, our level to ensure the electricity that will be side-electric-vehicle-charging-permits. residents, on our next City Manager’s search. It’s an opportunity to have a commu- charging electric vehicles is 100% renew- nity discussion on what’s important and your opinion matters. We hope you will able. join us as we begin our journey in search of a new City Manager. Virtual Meeting Date: Thursday, February 4 THE TAKOMA PARK takomaparkmd.gov or Newsletter, City of Time: 6–8 p.m. Takoma Park, 7500 Maple Ave., Takoma Park, Zoom link: https://bit.ly/3prvkYT NEWSLETTER Md. 20912. Editor: Apryl Motley Name, address and telephone number must Assistant: Sean Gossard accompany all submitted material. Editor of Takoma Park, and we honor that heri- reserves the right to edit for length, clarity, TREE SPECIES www.takomaparkmd.gov n tage by planting and nurturing trees. We style, spelling and grammar. From page 1 Vol. 60, No. 2 hope that this species list can be one of Published material containing opinions The Takoma Park Newsletter is published 12 sure. However, we can design and nurture the tools in the tool bag for fulfilling these does not necessarily reflect the views of the times a year as the official publication of the a landscape that integrates the needs of a goals. Newsletter or the City of Takoma Park. City of Takoma Park, takomaparkmd.gov. healthy and resilient urban forest with our Please see the Tree Permits page of the The Newsletter does not accept commercial, City of Takoma Park website to find the Letters to the editor, reports by built environment. To achieve this goal, it community groups, calendar items and classified or political advertisements. is essential that we plant trees to replenish list, which is currently in draft form and is other submissions will be considered The Newsletter is printed on recycled— and maintain the forest canopy. The forest subject to updates based on comments we for publication; send to tpnewseditor@ content paper. is the ecological heritage of the landscape receive from the community.

February 2021 Takoma Park News n Page 3 BUILDING COMMUNITY

Improving indoor air quality and comfort while reducing utility bills Does your home feel cold dur- can Council for an Energy Effi- ing the winter? Too hot in the cient Economy, “Insulation summer? Do your energy and air sealing save en- bills seem abnormally ergy, but they also pro- high? No cost grants tect people from heat are available to help waves and other harm- homeowners, who ful effects of climate meet certain income change. Combining requirements, make these services with energy efficiency up- strategies to identify grades to their homes. and address a person’s Upgrades that the grants asthma triggers — such cover include insulation, as pest management and re- draft reduction, caulking, moval of indoor irritants — can weatherizing, and heating and cool- reduce asthma symptoms and even ing equipment as well as some major ap- prevent hospital visits…once we start pliances. In past years grant recipients thinking of energy programs as health have reduced their monthly utility bills programs, there is huge potential to save Lee Jordan by $65 or more. Rebates for the same lives and improve quality of life.” types of improvements are available up The City’s investment to provide re- to $500 for residents who earn more than bates and grants to improve energy ef- the grant threshold. ficiency support the City’s goal to reach Tune in for a Special Black History As so many people are stuck at home net zero greenhouse gas emissions by and suffering the many health and finan- 2035. About half of emissions in Takoma Month Program cial complications from COVID-19, energy Park come from existing buildings, with efficiency and indoor air quality improve- a significant portion coming from homes. Celebrate Lee Jordan Day 2021 ments are more important that ever. These Helping residents improve their living Honoring the legacy of “Mr. Lee” Jordan, legendary Takoma Park community leader, types of home improvements can help im- conditions through energy efficiency is coach, and mentor prove indoor air quality by reducing dust, just one way the city is working to help. “Preserving Stories from Takoma Park’s African American Community” combustion gases, extreme drafts, and For a full list of resources available, visit more, which can trigger asthma, allergies, /takomaparkmd.gov/initiatives/project- Highlights from a multiphase project documenting the community’s past through and other conditions. Another way to re- directory/information-and-resources-co- oral history interviews with longtime residents. Elders, who grew up during seg- duce indoor air irritants is to remove com- vid-19. To apply for a sustainability grant, regation and its aftermath, reflect on life and work, identity and values, and the bustion appliances from your home. When visit takomaparkmd.gov/sustainability. forging of a vibrant community in the face of racial and economic challenges. that is not possible, ensure there is proper Celebrate Lee Jordan Day 2021 ventilation being used. WOWD RADIO 94.3 FM According to Sara Hayes of the Ameri- Tuesday, February 23 2:30–3:30 p.m.

Let It Snow! (And Be a Good Neighbor!) We just had some snow, and we may have more! With the potential for snow comes an opportunity for residents and business owners to show Takoma Junction Vision Study what good neighbors they can be. When it snows, we need to remove snow and ice from sidewalks, so neighbors, children, and customers can travel safely. Report Available When sidewalks are not clear, people must walk in the street or The Maryland Department port, contact Kandese Holford, try to navigate dangerous patches of ice, so please be consider- of Transportation State High- Assistant Chief, Regional and ate of neighbors and the community and keep your sidewalks way Administration (MDOT Intermodal Planning Division, clear. Would you be willing to help your neighbor? If your SHA) conducted a vision study Bicycle & Pedestrian Coordi- neighbors need some assistance clearing off their side- to collaboratively develop a vi- nator Maryland Department of walks, offer to give them a hand after you finish clearing sion for improved pedestrian, Transportation State Highway yours. bicycle, and vehicular mobility Administration at 410-545- The City has regulations regarding snow removal: at Takoma Junction, the inter- 5678 or [email protected] • Residents have until noon after a night of snowfall and until 9 section of MD 195 (Carroll Av- land.gov. p.m. after a day of snowfall to remove snow and ice from their sidewalks. enue) and MD 410 (Philadelphia Avenue/ Request for Assistance: The Maryland • Businesses will need to keep their sidewalks clear between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Carroll Avenue/Ethan Allen Avenue) in Relay Service can assist teletype users at • The full width of your sidewalk must be clear unless full-width clearing is not fea- Takoma Park. MDOT SHA has completed 7-1-1. Persons requiring translation assis- sible, in which case at a minimum a continuous three-foot wide path of the paved the Takoma Junction Vision Study and tance with study materials should send sidewalk must be cleared. invites you to visit our website https:// an email to [email protected]. • Lastly, to protect our sidewalks and trees, the use of salt is strictly prohibited on side- bit.ly/MDOTSHA-TJVS to read the study gov. Please indicate the desired language walks or within 10 feet of any trees. report. The QR code to the website is pro- in the subject line. vided. To request a copy of the study re- —Code Enforcement Staff

Page 4 n Takoma Park News February 2021 THE ARTS

A new chalkboard mural outlined by colorful flowers enlivens the park at the Takoma Junction at the corner of Carroll Avenue and Ethan Allan Avenue. B.Y. Morrison Park Transformed into Kid-Friendly Space Kids and kids at heart should visit B.Y. robot, balloons to jump on, and animal and practice social Morrison Park to play games, eat lunch, tracks to follow. The picnic tables in the distancing as long or share their creativity on a chalkboard park also have been painted with color- as those restrictions mural. ful designs to encourage people to eat or are in place.” The new public art project organized by relax there. the City of Takoma Park’s Arts and Hu- Pyrate was born in Washington, D.C., manities Division has enlivened the aging and has been a profes- park at the Takoma Junction at the corner sional artist for a decade. of Carroll Avenue and Ethan Allan Av- He has created murals and enue. The pavilion features a new chalk- other artwork in the D.C. board mural outlined by colorful flowers area, Miami, New York that artist Chris Pyrate painted. Chalk City, and other locales. You and erasers will be available at the park, can see more of his work at or people can bring their own chalk. chrispyrate.com. Pyrate said his design was inspired by Public art is an important the need to get children outside for ex- source of inspiration, cre- ercise and social interaction during the ativity, and solace during dif- Above: Artist Chris Pyrate's design coronavirus pandemic. “It’s been difficult ficult times, especially during was inspired by the need to get children for kids because many of them are stuck at this ongoing pandemic, Arts outside for exercise and social interac- home staring at computer screens all day and Humanities Division Co- tion during the pandemic. for online learning,” Pyrate said. “Play is ordinator Brendan Smith said: important for children. I wanted the mu- “We all need to get outdoors ral to be interactive, so kids could draw and take a break during the At left: A younger resident enjoys and write to express themselves, and they day, especially kids. Anyone the "balloons to jump on," which are can meet other kids outside.” who wants to have some fun among the color stencils City employ- City of Takoma Park employees paint- or just a place to relax should ees painted. ed colorful stencils on the concrete floor check out B.Y. Morrison Park. of the park, including a giant hopscotch People should still wear masks

We Need Your Poems for Our Sidewalk Poetry Contest Would you like to see your poem imprinted in a city sidewalk? Current Takoma Park residents of all ages may enter their short original poems in English or Spanish in this public art project. No poetry experience is needed so just write a poem and enter it! Arts events in the Takoma Park Arts cultural series have moved online with Winners will receive a $100 award and a chance to have their poem immortalized in concrete. You can find more details in the new film screenings, concerts, poetry online submission form at takomaparkmd.gov/sidewalkpoetry. The contest deadline is Feb. 28. readings, and more. You can find more details and sign up for our weekly e-newsletter at takomaparkmd.gov/arts.

February 2021 Takoma Park News n Page 5 CMYK

Virtual class links can be found on the Virtual Community Center RECREATION page: takomaparkmd.gov/recreation/vcc. VIRTUAL CLASSES

TOTS class. Instructor: Ellen M. Zavian For more information, contact Leicia Monfort at Fridays, 6–7 p.m. 11–14 years [email protected]. Through March 5 Wednesdays, 4–5 p.m. Grades 6–12 Free FITNESS Through February 17 Saturdays, 10:30–11:30 a.m. Creative Movement & Literacy with Carla Free Through March 27 Meditation, Mudras & Yoga These 30–40-minute classes will include creative Free Part class, part experience, dive into the world of movement, dance, music, songs and books. Classes guided meditation along with hand mudras, gestures will be fun and will enhance body awareness, that promote healing, psychological balance and physical fitness, creativity, ability to follow ADULT spiritual awakening. Mudras have been used in directions, sequencing, number recognition and almost all wisdom traditions throughout the world reading readiness. Children that are six will be ART and notably in yoga. Yoga Asanas, or postures, will be asked to be leaders for the classes and demonstrate broken down as well, going deeper into the postures for the younger children. Instructor: Carla Perlo to holistically understand the asanas for yourself and 4–6 years enhance your practice. This class is great for those Thursdays, 4:30–5 p.m. who want more guidance in their meditation practice Through February 18 as a whole and who want to explore new ways of Free experiencing yoga. Instructor: Beth Mwano 16 and older Wednesdays, 7–8 p.m. YOUTH Through March 3 Free ART Be Creative Arts & Crafts Have fun being creative. Turn household recycled items into art and useful projects. Each week we will create a new project using paper, plastic bottles, Meal Prep Mondays cans, yarn, embroidery thread, magazines and more. Pandamit Painting Meal Prep Mondays is a fun and interactive hour Learn to braid, sew, embroider, make paper beads Enjoy instruction in how to paint with acrylics, course about basic cooking and kitchen skills as and more. Instructor: Carla Perlo including topics such as values, color mixing, well as healthy recipes to make at home. Teens will 6–12 years complementary colors and mixed media. The be able to learn some nutritional components and Saturdays, 12–12:30 p.m. purpose is also to support and assist each other how to create their own recipes as well as meal More Five Animal Qi Gong Through February 20 in this time of restrictions and to provide a fun and prep for the week. For more information, contact Five Animal Play Qi Gong is one of the most ancient Free informative activity. The students are responsible for Leicia Monfort at [email protected]. continuously practiced healing exercising systems their own materials; a list of suggested supplies will This is a virtual class. Registration via ActiveNet is in the world. Enjoy peaceful movements modeled be given to students. Instructor: Alice Sims required for this class. on the crane, bear, monkey, deer and tiger. While 16 and older DANCE Grades 6–12 this class is a continuation of our class from the fall, Saturdays, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Youth Dance Mondays, 5:30–6:30 p.m. this is not a hindrance to joining. Participants will Through February 20 We encourage you to join us as Ms. Charonne February 1-March 29 develop more strength, grace, flexibility, balance Free teaches a different dance technique weekly. Show Free and healing in a relaxed group setting. You will feel off your skills in this free and fun class. Be sure to the effects in your body, mind and spirit as you find get to class a few minutes early. Clear the floor and Teenage Money Management harmony with nature and yourself. No experience get ready to move! Instructor: Charonne Butler This financial literacy program specifically focuses FITNESS necessary. Instructor: Patrick Smith 5–12 years on basic personal finance skills that are relevant to Fitness for Life 16 and older Sundays, 11:30 a.m.–12 p.m. the lives of teens. By learning the concepts listed This class is for anyone looking to reach their health, Tuesdays, 7–7:30 p.m. Through March 21 below and putting them into practice, participants fitness and life goals. Whether you are an athlete, Through March 2 Free will be much better prepared when they begin novice exerciser, or looking to enhance your current Free building their own credit history. Topics include: workout routine, your coach will ensure you are Long-Term Saving Goals, Credit Cards and Credit performing the exercises in a safe and effective ReVamp Fit Home Workout FITNESS Reports, Opening a Bank Account, Student Loans manner. This class is designed for you to work at This fitness class will incorporate movements to Recess Break and Budgeting. Instructor: Tyronda Boone of Zoey your own pace. This is a virtual class. Instructor: work on your total body endurance, strength, and It’s Zoom Recess! Start your weekend right. Join & Zander Sergio Quisquinay flexibility. Move with us to get your day started on a Ms. Charonne every Saturday for stretching, fun Grades 5–8 18 and older strong note! Instructor: Abel Asafere and fitness! Spreading the word spreads more fun! 5 Week Session Thursdays, 11 a.m. –12 p.m. 16 and older Instructor: Charonne Butler Mondays, 4–4:45 p.m. Through March 18 Wednesdays, 10–11 a.m. 5–12 years Through February 22 Free Through March 3 Saturdays, 10:30–11 a.m. (No Class 2/15) Free Through February 27 Free Foundational Fitness & Training II (FFT II) Free FFT II is a fitness program for participants who Rise and Move have been or are currently involved in a fitness This class will strengthen your muscles (including regimen. The program builds on the concepts of your heart), increase mobility in your joints, provide TEEN Classic FFT, which incorporates various movements you with energy and improve your coordination. Your from numerous disciplines while utilizing minimal coach will educate, guide and assist you throughout EDUCATION & DEVELOPMENT resistance and multiple repetitions. Advanced the entire class to ensure you are performing adds more resistance and incorporates floor or movements safely and effectively. Equipment Entrepreneurship for Teens 101 mat exercises using hand weights; bands/tubes; needed: Floor space, high back chair, mat and This virtual class engages teenagers, teaches abdominal rollers and exercise balls. All equipment weights (optional). This is a virtual class. Instructor: them to follow their passions, and inspires teens to will need to be provided by the participants. FFT Sergio Quisquinay create their own businesses. George Washington II will enhance, tone, and strengthen all major 18 and older University professor Ellen M. Zavian leads students muscle groups; as well as increase stamina and Mondays, 10–11 a.m. to use their new entrepreneurial skills and work flexibility. Instructor: Michael Williams Through March 22 in teams to develop a venture idea that creates 18 and older Free economic and social value. Registration via Teen Talk Tuesdays Saturdays, 10:30–11:30 a.m. AcitveNet is required for this class. Once signed up, Join Ms. Leicia weekly. Grab your seats, and we’ll Through March 27 you will receive a link for access to the virtual class. bring the “tea”! Let’s talk about fashion, fads, Free Instructor: Ellen M. Zavian questions, advice, current events, etc. You name it! 11–14 years Some weeks we will have experts or special guests 6 Week Session join in on the conversations. This is a virtual session Wednesdays, February 24-March 31 on Zoom. For more information, contact Leicia Spirit Group Fitness 4–5 p.m. Monfort at [email protected]. Registration Class will be geared toward supporting all members Free required via ActiveNet. of the community, as each class spotlights trainers Grades 6–12 leading versions of the exercises for those standing, Entrepreneurship for Teens 102 Tuesdays, 4–5 p.m. seated, progressed, and exercising alongside a If you took the 101 class last season, join us February 2-March 30 supporter (which is a great option for those with for 102! This is the higher level class of Teen Free limited mobility or with a developmental disability). Entrepreneurship. This virtual class builds upon Truly, a person of any fitness and ability level can the introductory session and dives deeper into the get a meaningful exercise experience from these tools needed to start your own business. George FITNESS Let’s Move Caribbean Dance classes. Instructor: Spirit Club Washington University professor Ellen M. Zavian Dance your worries away with this fun, energetic, Commit 2 B Fit 16 and older leads students to use their new entrepreneurial and easy to follow dance workout. Afro-Caribbean Get your yoga mats and water bottles and join us New videos uploaded to site each Wednesday skills and work in teams to develop a venture idea fitness dance class is for all ages and will get virtually for a fun and energized session to work out Free that creates economic and social value. Registration the body moving to build cardio endurance and and get fit. This is a virtual class. Limited spaces via ActiveNet is required for this class. Once signed coordination. Instructor: KJ Total Fitness available; registration via ActiveNet is required. up, you will receive a link for access to the virtual All Ages RECREATION n Page 7

Page 6 n Takoma Park News February 2021 CMYK

Virtual class links can be found on the Virtual Community Center RECREATION page: takomaparkmd.gov/recreation/vcc. VIRTUAL CLASSES

navigate the digital world to sell a product or your follow Zumba choreography that focuses on services. This virtual class will cover Ideation to balance, range of motion and coordination. activation and market research; which platforms Instructor: Yesika Flores are best for your business; effective social media 55 and older ads and how to set them up; how to build a website Fridays, 10–11 a.m. layout that converts into sales; and live interviews Through March 5 with professionals working in a variety of fields Free on how they use the digital world to grow their businesses. Instructor: Vinny Mwano Enhance Your Fitness Total Body Blast 16 and older MULTIMEDIA Thursdays, 6–7 p.m. The class focuses on core strengthening through This class provides a mix of calisthenics, balance, various body strength training exercises. Instructor: strength training and cardiovascular exercise in one Through March 4 Free Adriene Buist dynamic session. Participants will work at their own 55 and older pace to complete the workout that focuses on all Tuesdays, 8:45–9:45 a.m. major muscle groups. Instructor: KJ Total Fitness Mobile Photography Learn the secret formulas to capturing beautiful Through March 2 16 & older Free Saturdays, 9–10 a.m. moments and memories for any occasion season on your phone. This course will cover manual Through March 6 Yoga for Healthy Aging Free mode; composition portraits; landscape; street photography; lighting; group photography; selfies This class helps build strength, endurance, flexibility and storytelling. Instructor: Vinny Mwano and range-of-motion and improve posture and Yoga (Beginner) balance, and aids in preventing/reversing bone loss This Zoom class will get you on your feet, stretching 13 and older Tuesdays, 6–7 p.m. related to osteoporosis using seated, standing, and and reaching; energize you when you feel dull floor poses and breathing and relaxation techniques. and bring calm on stressful days. Appropriate Through March 2 Free Students need to provide their own yoga sticky mat, for adults and seniors. No prior experience a straight-backed chair, access to a wall, a yoga Poetry Workshop needed. Equipment: Yoga mat, 2 blocks, 2 blankets, 1 belt (or equivalent, e.g., a necktie), a tennis ball, Covid Creativity: Try your hand at poetry! belt. Instructor: Tehseen Chettri 55+ preferably a yoga block and blanket. Instructor: Are you interested in tapping into your 18 and older Carol Mermey creativity during this pandemic and Wednesdays, 5:30–6:30 p.m. 55 and older capturing your experiences in short Phone a Neighbor Through March 17 Wednesdays, 2:15–3:15 p.m. poems? Takoma Park’s Poet Laureate Are you a senior who would like occasional phone Free Through March 3 will lead an online Zoom poetry writing calls while staying home? To be connected with a Free session. Have pen and paper handy and friendly volunteer, contact Paula Lisowski at 240- a sense of adventure. No previous poetry 687-4132 or [email protected] MARTIAL ARTS Line Dance writing experience is necessary. After the Karate Self Defense Line Dancing is great physical and mental exercise. workshop, you may decide to submit your Promote physical Strengthening of bones and muscles, weight poem to the Sidewalk Poetry Contest: Guide fitness, self-defense, FITNESS loss, increased stamina and flexibility, and stress Our Feet: Haiku & Short Poetry. The City leadership and cultural reduction are just some of the benefits of dancing. of Takoma Park will use selected poems exchange through Learn how exercise can be fun with music. No on future sidewalk projects. Instructor: the practice of a experience necessary. Instructor: Barbara Brown Kathleen O’Toole, Takoma Park Poet traditional Okinawan 55 and older Laureate karate style, Isshinryu Wednesdays, 1–2 p.m. 55 and older (which means one Through March 3 One Day Workshop heart way). This Free Tuesday, 2–3:15 p.m. class will consist of February 9 warm-ups, stretching, Free and learning and practicing Isshinryu Karate upper and lower body basics. This is a virtual class. Instructor: Ellen Marcus Classic Foundational Fitness and Training TPTalk55 16 and older The program is designed to enhance strength, Stay connected and catch up with friends, Mondays, 6:30–7 p.m. decrease fall risks, increase physical fitness level, classmates, and neighbors in a live Zoom chat Through March 22 improve cardiovascular capacity and range of room. Grab a cup of coffee and join the friendly, Free motion, and enhance general sense of well-being. social conversation. There is a call-in option Class utilizes a high back chair, light hand weights available for seniors without internet access. and or a resistance tube. Equipment is not provided. To participate, contact Paula at 240-687-4132 or MULTIMEDIA Have a towel and water bottle nearby. Instructor: [email protected] to request the meeting Michael Williams information. Digital Marketing 55 and older 55 and older We are all experts of something, and someone is “Zoomba” Gold Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10–11 a.m. Mondays, 1–2 p.m. looking to benefit from your expertise. Learn the key Designed for active older adults looking Through March 4 February 8, 22 digital marketing skills that can help you monetize for a modified Zumba class that recreates Free (No meet up 2/15) your expertise. In this course you will learn how to the original moves you love at a lower intensity, this class introduces easy-to- Free Breathe & Stop When was the last time you listened to the sound of with kindness. Practicing it can help you be more calm your own breathing? It’s a great way to start your day and happy, gain mental focus for sports or perform- before your feet even touch the ground, and the chaos ing, and learn to tame strong emotions. Every Wednes- begins. Stress is a repeating theme these past months. day at 4 p.m., teens can join and learn mindful lis- You often don’t even notice the emotions you’re holding tening, breathing, gratitude, and movement practices. until it creeps up on you. One day you’re watching You- Although this is a virtual class, Mrs. Jen works hard Tube videos or bread making, and the next moment at giving an in-person experience: creating breakout you’re overwhelmed from the amount of baking time rooms, using polling, and guiding meditative experi- needed. Simple frustrations are often fueled by larger ences. issues. For youth, expressing these feelings can be dif- The Mindfulness for Teens class promotes personal ficult and moving forward can feel impossible, espe- reflection. Pushing the participants to apply a personal cially when you have yet to develop the tools that come connection to the challenges they face. This outlook with experience. inspires self-discovery, empowerment and happiness. Teen stress is an important health issue. When we Join us for this virtual class through February 24. This discussed our winter classes, we took this as an op- class is quickly filling up, so register today via Ac- portunity to address this concern. The result was the by longtime Takoma Park Resident, Jen Langer-Smith. tivenet! creation of Mindfulness for Teens. This class is taught Mindfulness is paying attention in the present moment

February 2021 Takoma Park News n Page 7 CMYK

please register for Zoom Comics Jam at www.tinyurl.com/tplibraryevents ; we’ll CALENDAR send an email with the next date to all registered. The Meeting ID for Zoom The library building is closed, but we’re Comics Jam is 734-913-6285. No Meeting LIBRARY continuing to offer several great library Password needed. programs – weekly and monthly – via Zoom. To participate, go to https://zoom. Zoom Spanish Circle Time: Thursdays at us. Click on “Join a Meeting” and put in 10:30 a.m. NOTE: These are NEW Zoom Black History Month Reading the Meeting ID (and Meeting PW, if any) credentials for Zoom Spanish Circle Time listed with each program. Registration as of the beginning of 2021. To participate isn’t required for these programs, but if in Zoom Spanish Circle Time, go to: https:// February is Black History you are registered, we will send reminders zoom.us. Then put in Meeting ID: 959-5178- Month, so it’s an especially ter- as well as notices of any changes or 5847 and Meeting Password: 793725 rific time to check out winners cancellations. To register, go to www. Zoom Scribbler’s Cabal: Fridays at 4 of the Coretta Scott King Book tinyurl.com/tplibraryprograms. Please p.m. Meeting ID is 734-913-6285 (same Award. This award is given an- refresh your browser first to ensure you as Comics Jam), no Meeting Password get the most updated information. Also, needed. nually to the books for kids and please make sure you register for the Zoom Caldecott Club teens by African American au- “Zoom” version of these programs. thors and illustrators that best Tuesday, Feb. 23, 7:30 p.m. Programs: To keep up with all of our We'll read and discuss the 2021 Caldecott “demonstrate an appreciation programs, go to www.tinyurl.com/ Medal and Honor books. of African American culture tplibraryevents. and universal human values.” Meeting ID: 951 9391 8459 Meeting Zoom Circle Time: Tuesday mornings at PW: 183091 The award is administered 10:30 a.m. Meeting ID is 995-4901-8825 and by the Ethnic and Multicul- Meeting Password is 178851. Fortnightly Book Club via Zoom Thursday, March 18, 7:30 p.m. tural Information Exchange Zoom Comics Jam: Once a month on a Our book is The Turner House by Angela Round Table (EMIERT), Wednesday at 4 p.m. The next date is Flournoy which is part of the American February 10. To keep up with the schedule, Library Association. Estab- lished over 50 years ago, the award-winning books offer a broad spectrum of great writing and illustration for kids ages newborn through the teen years. To see a full list of all of the winners, go to: www.ala.org/ rt/emiert/cskbookawards/coretta- scott-king-book-awards-all-recip- Updates ients-1970-present. Here are some updates to our “Books- day - Thursday and 2–4 on Sunday. to-Go” program: • To request delivery, send an email 1. Expanded Hours: We recently greatly with your book requests to libra- expanded the pick-up hours for our [email protected] or call Library Pilots “Computer Questions “Books-to-Go” curbside service pro- 240-507-0229 Monday, Tuesday, gram. Now, you can pick up your Thursday, and Friday 12–3. No and Answers with Phil” books from 2–8, Monday - Friday and delivery on Wednesday, Saturday, 12–6 p.m. on Saturdays. and Sunday. In the subject heading Do you have questions about some- 2. Holds: You may now place a hold on of the email (or when speaking to thing on your computer, smartphone, an item that is CHECKED OUT. Just our staff by phone), please note that or tablet? Library staffer Phil Shapiro go to our catalog: https://takoma.bywa- this is a delivery request. would love to try answering your ques- tersolutions.com. • Then, in the content of the email tions via Zoom. You can sign up for 15 • Log in and then type what you are please include the address and minutes of Phil’s time – 2 to 5:30 p.m. the phone number of the person weekdays. If your questions cannot be searching for into the search box at the top. who will be receiving the drop- answered completely within this time off. Please note that we will not be • Click “Go.” A list of matching items able to leave books unattended on COMPUTER QUESTIONS n Page 9 will come up – look through that porches or in lobbies. list to find what you want. • We will call from this phone num- • If it says CHECKED OUT (it says ber – 240-856-0255 – when we this in red capital letters), you can are on our way to ensure there LIBRARY BRIEFS click the “Place Hold” button right will be someone to receive the there, or open up the actual catalog books. There may be some delay WinterQuest Continues: If you record for the book and look it over between your request and our de- haven’t yet tried our WinterQuest read- to be sure this is what you want. livery schedule, depending on the ing game, you’ve still got plenty of time There is a hold button there too. volume of response and day of the to do so. Just pick up a paper game- • Note: You cannot place a hold if week, so be on the lookout for our board and story on Saturdays from there are copies available. Instead, call. (Books that are not able to 12–6 (look for the purple cart) or use send an email request for that book be picked up at the door will be the online version, which can be found to [email protected], checked back in and returned to on the Friends of the Takoma Park and we’ll let you know when it is circulation). Maryland Library’s website: https:// ready for you to pick up. 4. Books Giveaway: Look for a plastic ftpml.org/winterquest2020-2021.Win- • If you are having trouble logging bin full of books on a cart outside our terQuest is a wonderful way to shake in, please sign up at http://www.ti- “Books-to-Go” pick-up spot. Inside up the winter reading doldrums; the nyurl.com/tkpklibrarycards, so we this bin are books that are looking for game continues until the first day of can help you. a new home! Please feel free to take spring. one – or more – whether or not you’re 3. Book Delivery: We are now offer- picking up Library books. We’re call- ing a pilot “Books-to-You” program to WinterQuest Game Board Zoom Caldecott Club: Please join us ing this our “Books-to-Keep” program. provide limited book delivery – for Ta- on Tuesday, Feb. 23 at 7:30 p.m. The Please don’t return the books to us, as koma Park residents only – who can’t they are yours to keep. LIBRARY BRIEFS n Page 9 make it to the library to pick up their books. Delivery hours are 12–3 Mon-

Page 8 n Takoma Park News February 2021 Council to Consider Change to Stormwater Utility Fee Rate for Single Family Properties The City Council is considering changes to generated by the proposed new fee structure the stormwater utility fee. This fee, which has would produce the same amount of funding as been in effect since 1996, is billed annually to the current flat fee rate. The current flat fee is every property in the city and the funds are $92 per single family property; the proposed used to manage and improve the City’s public tiered system would be $25 per 500 square feet stormwater system. For many years, the City of impervious area on the property. The charge mailed the stormwater bill out to each property. per single family property would range from $25 For the past two years, the stormwater fee has to $525 annually, based on the amount of im- been included as a separate item on the Mont- pervious area of the property. gomery County tax bill. The Council has previously discussed this in- The stormwater system is a key piece of the formation on September 11, 2019, February 5 City’s commitment to improving the health of and 19, 2020; and April 22, 2020. In the April the Anacostia Watershed and the Chesapeake meeting, the Council decided not to implement Bay and helps improve community resilience as any residential property change for FY21 as the we face the impacts of longer storms due to cli- pandemic impacted available time for a thorough mate change. The stormwater utility fee was es- community notice. The information provided to tablished to provide for a stable funding source the Council at these meetings can be found at for stormwater management and is charged to takomaparkmd.gov/meeting_agendas. all properties with impervious surfaces – even The tiered fee structure provides a more eq- those that are tax exempt. Impervious surfaces uitable approach as those properties with larger include the foot print of all buildings and struc- impervious areas would be charged more than tures, concrete, asphalt or gravel driveways, properties with smaller impervious area. Ad- and hard surfaced walkways and paths. The ditionally, a tiered fee structure might provide rate charged to single family property owners an incentive to a property owner to reduce the has been a flat fee based on the average size of amount of impervious area on their property impervious area on those properties. The rate which would reduce potential run-off as well as charged to commercial, institutional and indus- their fee. trial properties is based on the actual square To find out what the proposed fee would be footage of impervious area. for your single-family property, please refer to The stormwater utility fee generates $700,000 the color-coded map located at takomaparkmd. annually for the City’s stormwater programs. gov/government/public-works/stormwater-man- The annual revenue provides funding for sys- agement-program/stormwater-fees-frequently- tem inspection and repairs, monitoring and wa- asked-questions-faq. ter quality testing, repairs and maintenance of The City Council will be discussing the pro- the existing system, design and construction of posed change to the stormwater utility fee at its new facilities, and engineering oversight. Infor- February 10 meeting. A public hearing is sched- mation about the program can be found at: ta- uled for February 24. If the Council approves of komaparkmd.gov/government/public-works/stormwater- single family lots was larger and had a wider variation the fee structure change, the new rates would become ef- management-program. than originally assumed, with a range from 100 square fective in the FY22 budget billing cycle. In 2018, the City hired Black & Veatch to complete feet to 10,500 square feet. If you have questions about the proposed fee or the an impervious area review of properties in the City and The consultants recommended the City consider City’s stormwater management program, please contact recommend fee options. The study, published in January changing the stormwater fee for single family properties the public works director at [email protected]. 2019, can be found on the web page referenced above. from a flat fee to one that is tiered and based on the actual Their analysis found that the average impervious area on impervious area on the property. The amount of revenue

LIBRARY BRIEFS Our book is The Turner House by Angela Book Review n From page 8 Flournoy. The book describes “the fate Here’s a book review by Emil- has several storylines with of African Americans who have seen their iya, a local student who writes common topics (Michael’s hard-won success in reaching the middle program will be led by Library Associate reviews for the library to earn brother in Algerian war, class in a single generation blown to bits Dave Burbank, who will read and show the Student Service Learning (SSL) his long-lasting friendship by continuing economic malaise. Viola and 2021 Caldecott Medal winner and the four hour credits. Other students who with brother’s girlfriend who Frances Turner arrived in Detroit in 1944 2021 Caldecott Honor books. All are wel- might be interested in review- studies philosophy, enthril- as part of the Great Migration and bought come at this great family-friendly program! ing for the library to earn SSL ing stories of the chess club a house in 1951, raising 13 children there. To join the fun, go to: https://zoom.us. hours should contact Children’s members) – how people can Now ailing, widowed Viola must leave Then put in: Meeting ID: 951 9391 8459 Librarian Kati Nolfi at kath- be a family without being re- the house, which she discovers is worth a Meeting PW: 183091 [email protected]. lated, and that it takes time to tenth of its mortgage. All her children con- The Incorrigible Optimists acquire an optimistic view on verge – as past, present and future collide.” Fortnightly Book Club via Zoom: The Club by Jean-Michel Gue- life. Also, watching Michael’s (From Library Journal) club will meet on March 18 at 7:30 p.m. nassia takes place in Paris during the 60s literary taste developing is very and focuses on a teenager named Michel engaging and leaves you with a whole new who loves literature and playing table soc- list of books to read. cer in his favorite café but hates when his Even though the book is pretty long, relatives from mum’s and dad’s side come you can read it in one sit due to the tions are welcome. Please note, though, together. His life would be regular if one quickly unfolding events and pleasant COMPUTER QUESTIONS day he would not secretly go to the section language. I think books like this one help n From page 8 this is a library reference service and not a tech support service, so we can’t fix or of the café dedicated to the chess players. young people to improve their knowledge There he meets people who eventually of history and geography in an enthrall- frame, Phil will strive to provide follow- troubleshoot your computer issues via this service. Also, we can’t help you get become his friends and advisers: refugees ing way. I would recommend it to every- up emails to make sure you get the best from Eastern Europe who had to leave one who would like to know more about possible answers to your questions. your printer working. To reserve time with Phil, go to https://ti- their families and top rank occupations to France in 60’s and likes to read about fam- You can ask questions on a wide range nyurl.com/qandwithphil. Phil is also reach- survive. ily relationships! of topics. Even advanced computer ques- able via email at [email protected]. I loved how this simply written book — Emiliya

February 2021 Takoma Park News n Page 9 AT YOUR SERVICE

• Store removed ashes in tightly cov- ered metal containers, never in box- COVID-19 Vaccines Q & A: es or bags, away from the house. • Before going to bed, make sure the What You Need to Know fire is out and the flu is open. By Ron Hardy, Emergency Preparedness Manager/ Vehicle deaths Police Planning, City of Takoma Park As of January 29, 2021, 24 children Everyone has questions about the have died. Keep in mind, it doesn’t vaccines that help prevent COVID-19. A Note from the City THE FIREHOUSE matter the weather, hot or cold. It can Be sure to do your own research now Manager: Vaccinations REPORT happen if you don’t check the back seat to prepare yourself for when your pro- when you get out of your vehicle. fession, age group, or target population and Sharing Good By Jim Jarboe Information Firehouse Flashback gets notified or eligible for the vaccine. For a majority of us, it will be the Mod- The topic on so many of our Maryland fire deaths Have you ever wondered what was in erna vaccine, which will require two minds is vaccinations. So many The Maryland Fire Marshal Office the space between the U.S. Post Office shots 28 days apart. Pfizer is being of us want to get a vaccination reported as of February 2, 2021, 4 peo- and Pizza Movers on Laurel Avenue? given to hospitals and long-term care and the information that is out ple have died in fires compared to 3 in Well, it’s been 60 years since that space facilities. Other vaccines are still in there on vaccinations is so very 2020. was occupied. At that time the Pizza clinical trials. Below we address some confusing. It’s confusing for us, Movers was Tony’s Barber shop, and Cold weather safety tips frequently asked questions about the too! the post office was a Safeway store. vaccines. Although the State of Mary- Portable Space Heaters Well, the space in between these two Q: How does the vaccine work? land is putting out information • Purchase and use only portable space establishments was a large toy store, on all who are eligible to receive heaters that have automatic shut off and before that it was a Woolworth A: The COVID-19 vaccines we will vaccinations at this time, there (If they tip over, they shut off. store. receive are mRNA vaccines. Unlike is not enough vaccine availabili- • Keep space heaters 3 feet from any- On February 11, 1960 at 12:44 a.m., many vaccines that put a weakened or ty for those who are eligible and thing that can burn. a fire alarm came in for a fire at the toy inactive germ in our bodies to trigger the various vaccination sites store at 6903 Laurel Avenue. Firefight- Fireplace an immune response, mRNA vaccines each have their own criteria ers from Takoma Park and surrounding teach our cells how to make protein or • Keep fireplace fires small. or process for registration. We area responded to the third- alarm fire. a piece of a protein that triggers an im- • Never burn paper or trash in a fire- keep trying to get good infor- The last unit left the fire scene around mune response. When the vaccine trig- place. mation to share and then the in- noon. The entire building was de- gers that immune response, our bodies • Always use a fireplace screen to formation changes right away! stroyed. The Safeway and Barber shop produce antibodies, which then protect present sparks from flying into the Please be careful about where were both saved. I was on the first En- us from getting infected if we are ex- room and children and pets from in you register for vaccines. Don’t gine to arrive on the scene, along with posed to the real virus. use links forwarded to you contact with the flames. the crew, driver Mikey McBride, Cap- • Keep children away from fireplace Q: How do I know it is safe? from others. There are scams tain John Baker, firefighter Ted Jarboe, out there to steal your person- screens to prevent contact burns. A: The COVID-19 vaccines are being and Herbie Carpenter. al information. And, if you go • Allow ashes to cool completely be- held to the same rigorous safety and ef- —James Jarboe to a vaccine site that someone fore disposing of them. fectiveness standards as all other types else forwarded you information of vaccines in the United States. Be- about, you will likely be turned cause of the pandemic, testing and pro- away and not get the vaccine duction of the vaccine have happened – sometimes after a long wait. Window Guard Bill Introduced to Prevent simultaneously, but none of the safety Although some folks have reg- steps were skipped. Child Falls in Montgomery County istered at county sites outside of Montgomery County, some of In response to the recent tragic falls child age 10 or younger lives, or if a tenant those sites are now barring non- of young children from apartment win- requests such guards. The guards would VACCINE Q&A n Page 11 residents. Go to the Maryland dows, Montgomery County Council Pres- be supplied and installed at the land- Vaccine website (coronavirus. ident Tom Hucker introduced Bill 51-20 lord’s expense. Public comments were maryland.gov/pages/vaccine) or – Landlord Tenant Relations – Window presented to the County Council in Janu- Common side effects that the Montgomery County Vac- Guards. This bill would require landlords ary, and the Planning, Housing, and Eco- people may or may not get cine website www.montgom- to provide and install window guards in nomic Development Committee (PHED) erycountymd.gov/covid19/vac- each window of habitable rooms above has a work session tentatively planned for • In the arm where you get the cine) for information and links. the ground floor of a dwelling in which a March 1, 2021. shot: pain, swelling and/or red- Obviously, this confusion is ness terrible for everyone and dis- • Throughout your body: chills, proportionately hurts mem- la función de traducción en el sitio tiredness, and/or headache bers of our community who are web de la Ciudad de Takoma Park. These side effects usually start Editor's note Después de hacer clic en el enlace more vulnerable to COVID-19. del artículo, busque en la esquina within a day or two of getting the I know the State and County superior derecha de la página web vaccine. They might feel like flu governments want to be doing junto a la barra de navegación y se- English: vous pouvez lire en ligne dans symptoms and might even affect the right thing and are working d’autres langues à l’aide de la leccione el idioma que desee con el Look for this icon next to your ability to do daily activities, fonction de traduction dispo- cuadro desplegable. hard to straighten things out. newsletter articles that you can nible sur le site Web de la ville but they should go away in a few read online in other languages In the meantime, please know de Takoma Park. Après avoir Amharic: days. using the translation feature we are trying to learn and help, cliqué sur le lien de l’article, on the City of Takoma Park’s If you suffer severe allergic re- and we are strenuously advocat- regardez dans le coin supérieur website. After clicking on the actions or may be allergic to any droit de la page Web à côté de ing for the residents of Takoma link for the article, look in the la barre de navigation, puis sé- of the ingredients of the vaccine, upper right hand corner of the Park. We will share good infor- lectionnez la langue souhaitée à talk with your health care pro- web page next to the navigation mation as we obtain and verify l’aide du menu déroulant. bar, and select the language you vider, or go to www.fda.gov and it. want using the drop-down box. Spanish: search Moderna vaccine. —Suzanne Ludlow French: Busque este ícono junto a los Recherchez cette icône à artículos del boletín que puede leer côté des articles du bulletin que en línea en otros idiomas usando

Page 10 n Takoma Park News February 2021 CMYK

Main Street Pearl’s main feature: its bubbly drinks bar; featuring bubble tea, scratch sodas, kombucha, beer, cider, and sparkling wine

Steve at Image360 Silver Spring installing signs Main Street Pearl’s bar and retail space, featuring a mural by Nancy Leandra Nichola, a Takoma Park of Magic Wand Murals local for almost 15 years A Pearl of a Place: Takoma Park’s New Bubbly Bar, Noshery, and Tuck Shop By Rick Henry ing her own business has been “brewing” enue retail space became available, she was in my life have I been as supported as I am since she was 9-years-old and started op- ready for action. “The opportunity present- right now in large part because of my new For Leandra Nichola, an idea that has erating a pretend business in her play time. ed itself to build something new that my living arrangements,” Nichola said. been brewing since childhood has finally “Since I was a kid, I wanted to have my beloved Takoma Park needs right at this Along with Holly Harper and Herrin bubbled into fruition. At the end of last own brick and mortar joint,” she said. time,” she said. Hopper, Nichola co-owns a multi-family, month, Nichola, a long-time Takoma Park Closer to the present, Nichola began for- That something new – a self-described co-housing property on Carroll Ave and resident and retail veteran (Takoma Bev, mulating business ideas and the concept “bubbly bar, noshery and tuck shop”– of- their close relationship and conversations TPSS Co-op), opened her first business, behind Main Street Pearl over the last “five fers a little bit of everything, a potentially were instrumental in the creation of Main Main Street Pearl, a self-described “bubble or so” years after she left her previous ca- perfect match for the eclectic demograph- Street Pearl. bar” at 2050 Carroll Avenue, in the space reer working in nonprofits and academia ics and interests that define Takoma Park. “At our ‘Front Porch Society’ meetings, formerly occupied by Great Shoals Winery. to focus on community development and “There are a lot of things (offered),” Nich- we were constantly collaborating as neigh- According to Nichola, the idea of open- retail operations. When the Carroll Av- ola agreed, “but there are central themes: bors, real estate investors, and friends Bubbles (carbonated or shaken); anything about how to make our aspirations and micro or hyper local, and anything super dreams come true,” said Harper. “Leandra thoughtful about packaging or worker eth- mentioned early on that she had always ics.” wanted to own her own food and bever- Main Street Pearl’s main feature is its age establishment, so we began hammer- bubbly drinks bar; featuring bubble tea, ing out details in October. By December, scratch sodas, kombucha, beer, cider, and she had a full plan in place, and we hit the sparkling wine. In terms of food, Nichola ground running.” Harper, a small busi- explained that a noshery is simply another ness marketing consultant, has stepped word for restaurant or snack bar, serving into the project management, marketing, small meals and snacks. It will feature of- and brand management role, while Hop- ferings from local micro foodpreneurs with per, a corporate attorney, handles legal, a frequently changing menu to support as contracts, operating agreements, and other many businesspeople as possible. advisory roles. Main Street Pearl’s most unique compo- Beyond her immediate circle, Nichola nent may be its “tuck shop,” defined as a also reached out to the community, creat- place where young people can buy treats ing a fundraising campaign via indiegogo and other necessities, featuring grab-and- (www.indiegogo.com/projects/open-main- go snacks and youth-made crafts. It will street-pearl-s-doors#). be operated by the “Pearl Squad,” a group “For me to be brave enough to pull off • Walk-in service - indoors of young Takoma Parkers (ages 8–15) in- a project like this, I need to be doing it in • Hours: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Wednesdays and Saturdays terested in business. “I hope that many community, so we asked the community kids will get to have their first jobs at Main for support, and they really came through • Testing is free. Street Pearl,” she said enthusiastically. (raising more than $15,000),” Nichola said. • No identification, insurance, or doctor’s note, or payment required. The decision to include a youth compo- Overlaying all of these challenges has • Call the Testing Helpline at 240-777-1755 for assistance with testing. nent in the business arose out of Nichola’s been, of course, the pandemic, which has own experience as a mother and educator. left Nichola conflicted, but undeterred. She She has two children, ages 8 and 11, and admitted to feeling a little embarrassed spent the last decade teaching and facili- about opening a business when so many tating educational programming in Tako- others are struggling. “However, I do feel VACCINE Q&A For more information about the vac- ma Park and DC. “My kids are growing like there were just too many reasons to do up (they are 8 and almost 11 now), and I it to say ‘no’. At every stage, I’d come up n From page 10 cines, visit the following websites or talk with your health care provider. started feeling the pull to build something with reasons it could never work, and then • U.S. Centers for Disease Con- that is a safe and welcoming space for them those reasons would resolve, and I’d come Q: Will the vaccine end the to spend their free time with friends,” she up with other reasons,” she said. Pandemic? trol and Prevention: www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/dif- said. “But, that only makes me feel more re- A: The vaccine is a major step in helping ferent-vaccines/mrna.html Plus, she joked, “There was no other way solved that it is the right time for us,” to prevent the pandemic, but will not be • Montgomery County website: www. to get them on board with mom having to Nichola continued. Takoma needs fun – the immediate end to the pandemic. Pro- montgomerycountymd.gov/covid19/ throw herself into something.” not fun at the expense of workers’ rights duction and distribution will take time, vaccine It’s not just Nichola’s kids who have got- or the planet or our health – but good, su- and it is important to continue safe prac- Montgomery County also allows you ten on board. As with most new business- per clean, fun... with bubbles on top.” For tices of wearing a mask, social distancing, to sign up to receive notice of when your es, getting Main Street Pearl up and run- updates and other information, visit www. and washing our hands. group may start to receive the vaccine. ning has been a community effort. “Never facebook.com/mainstpearl.

February 2021 Takoma Park News n Page 11 CMYK

February 2021 Calendar STAY ACTIVE All virtual class links can be found on the Virtual Community Center page: For the foreseeable future, we’ll use Due to COVID-19 concerns, please www.takomaparkmd.gov/recreation. this space to feature city resources and be advised that all events and meet- provide important updates on city ings held in City facilities have been Rise and Move Fitness for Life services. However, let us know if you cancelled or postponed until further This class will strengthen your muscles Adult Fitness – Reach your fitness goals. have a virtual, nonprofit event that notice. Updates will be provided (including your heart), increase mobility Thursdays, 11 a.m. would be of interest to City of Takoma when events have been rescheduled. in your joints, provide you with energy Park residents, and we’ll consider it The Police Department is open and improve your coordination. Mondays, 10–11 a.m. Zoomba Gold/Zumba Gold for inclusion in the calendar. Dead- 24/7 for emergency services. 55+ Fitness – Move your body to the line for the March issue is Feb. 12, For information on Takoma Park Zumba beat. and the newsletter will be distributed Arts online events, visit takom- Qi Gong Fridays, 10 a.m. beginning Feb. 26. To submit virtual aparkmd.gov/initiatives/arts-and- Adult Fitness – Learn gentle movements calendar items, email tpnewseditor@ humanities. to increase mobility and flexibility. takomaparkmd.gov. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Recess Break Join Ms. Charonne on Saturday mornings for stretching, fun and fitness! Yoga for Healthy Aging Spreading the word spreads more fun! Using a series of seated, standing, Instructor: Charonne Butler and floor poses, this class helps build Saturdays, 10:30 a.m. strength and endurance, increase PUBLIC DAYS OF NOTE flexibility and range-of-motion, improve Youth Dance President’s Day - City Offices Closed posture and balance while aiding in Learn different dance techniques the prevention bone loss related to Monday, Feb. 15 weekly. osteoporosis. Instructor: Charonne Butler All City offices and facilities will be closed for President’s Day. The Takoma Park Police Wednesdays, 2:15–3:15 p.m. Sundays, 11:30 a.m. Department is open 24/7 for emergency services.

SHARE IDEAS COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES

Attend virtual City Council meetings! Takoma Park Recreation Park Let’s Play America Virtual Wednesday, February 3, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, February 24, 7:30 p.m. Community Art Contest Extended to Mid-Winter Play Day February 7 Sunday, Feb. 14, 1 – 5 p.m. City Council Regular Meeting City Council Regular Meeting If you have not participated in the The event will feature circus acts, Takoma Park Recreation Center storytelling and exercise classes Wednesday, February 10, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 3, 7:30 p.m. Community Art Contest yet, there in English and Spanish, crafts with City Council Regular Meeting City Council Regular Meeting is still time. We have extended the Jennifer Byrne, as well as Sporcle deadline for submissions to February trivia and karaoke. More info: Visit 7. All participants will be entered into letsplayamerica.org Wednesday, February 17, 7:30 p.m. Detailed agendas are available for a raffle for prizes and final winners City Council Regular Meeting review online at www.takomaparkmd. will have their art displayed at the new gov/citycouncil/agendas. Recreation Center. Prizes will include Celebrate Lee Jordan Day 2021 $25 Visa gift cards and gift cards for WOWD RADIO 94.3 FM local, Takoma Park-based merchants, Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2:30–3:30 p.m. which will be awarded in a random Tune in for a special Black History Due to the public health crisis, • on YouTube drawing at the close of the contest. For Month program, “Preserving Stories the City Council has been meeting (https://www.youtube.com/user/ more information and to participate in from Takoma Park’s African American remotely by video conference. This TakomaParkTV) the Community Art Contest, visit https:// Community.” This program will feature will continue as long as necessary. engage.takomaparkmd.gov. highlights from a multiphase project The meetings are available to watch The public can comment live during documenting the community’s past the public comment portions of the through oral history interviews with live (or view afterwards) in all the Yarrow Mamout and His Family: A usual ways: meetings by registering and logging longtime residents. Elders, who into the video conference. The link Remarkable American Success Story grew up during segregation and its • on the City Council Video Page will be provided by weekly email Thursday, Feb. 11, 1–2:15 p.m. aftermath, reflect on life and work, of the City Website (https:/ from the City Clerk and on the City Brought to Maryland on a slave ship identity and values, and the forging of a takomaparkmd.gov/government/ website. For those not able to do so, in 1752 and enslaved for the next 40 vibrant community in the face of racial city-council/meetings-and- written comments may be sent by years, Yarrow (his last name) didn’t and economic challenges. documents/city-council-video/) email to [email protected] to become a free man until he was 60 be circulated to the Council. years old. He then acquired a house • on City TV in Georgetown and enough money Parkinson’s and Movement Disorder (RCN - Channel 13, HD Channel 1060 Individuals interested in receiving to retire on the interest from loans Support Group Comcast/xfinity - Channel 13 a weekly Council agenda and to white merchants and on stock Do you have Parkinson’s or another Verizon Fios - Channel 28) , and calendar update by e-mail can sign dividends. In 1819, the great portrait movement disorder? Or are you Comcast/Xfinity HD Channel 997 up by sending an email to clerk@ painter Charles Willson Peale painted a caregiver? If so, you might be takomaparkmd.gov. a portrait of him as a testament to interested in our informal support • on Facebook racial equality. Our presenter for this group which meets monthly to share (@TakomaParkMD/) fascinating story will be Jim Johnston, resources and experiences. Our the author of From Slave Ship to meetings are virtual with a Zoom Harvard: Yarrow Mamout and the call, but soon we hope to return to History of an African American Family. in-person meetings at the Takoma Park This program is offered in collaboration Municipal Building. It’s free, and you with the Montgomery County Historical don’t have to be a resident of Takoma Society. Open to all; registration Park. For further information, contact required. Go to villageoftakomapark. Tom Bigford at [email protected] or com, “Upcoming Events” list to register 301-580-4056. and receive Zoom link information.

Page 12 n Takoma Park News February 2021