Budget Survey & Town Hall Meeting PTA Game Night Valentine's Crafting - FEBRUARY 2021 - Town of Berwyn Heights
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Berwyn Heights Bulletin — FEBRUARY 2021 — Page
Incorporated 1896 FEBRUARY 2021
• Budget Survey & Town Hall Meeting
PAGE 14
• PTA Game Night
PAGE 11
• Valentine’s Crafting
PAGE 13
Berwyn Heights Bulletin — FEBRUARY 2021 — Page 2
CoVID-19 Town Government
Operations
Town Hall remains closed to the public. Administra-
Presidents’ Day tion and Code Compliance are working in shifts in
the Town office and from home. Police and Public
Works continue to provide services in person in a
Mon 02/15/21 CLOSED - NO PICKUP safe manner.
Public meetings held by video conference,
Tue 02/16/21 Trash, Bulk - Townwide broadcast on Comcast 71 or FiOS 12 and
Wed 02/17/21 Recycling—Townwide streamed on website;
Licenses and permit applications to be submit-
Thu 02/18/21 Yardwaste—Townwide ted to Code Department by US mail or e-mailed
to zbell@berwynheightsmd.gov.
Fri 02/19/21 Trash—Townwide Rental inspections suspended until further no-
tice;
Please do NOT leave trash out over a holiday Emergency notary service performed by BHPD
at 5411 Berwyn Rd. Call 301-474-6774 to in-
quire.
All payments to be submitted by check via US
mail to 5700 Berwyn Road, Berwyn Heights,
MD 20740.
C VID-19 VACCINATION PLAN
Check Town website for the latest updates
Please visit the PGC COVID Vaccination webpage https://www.berwynheightsmd.gov/
for detailed information, preregistration and updates.
Timelines are estimates and subject to change.
Phase 1: January-February
Operaciones del gobierno municipal
Healthcare Workers, Essential Personnel, &
At-risk Populations de COVID-19
Phase 2: March-April El ayuntamiento permanece cerrado al público. De-
Critical Infrastructure Personnel & At-risk partamentos de Administración y Cumplimiento del
Código están trabajando en turnos en la oficina de
Populations la ciudad y de forma remota. La policía y las obras
Phase 3: May-June públicas están de servicio con personal completo.
General Public Reuniones públicas realizadas por videoconfer-
encia, transmitidas en Comcast 71 o FiOS 12 y
transmitidas en el sitio web;
PLAN DE VACUNACIÓN C VID-19 Las solicitudes de licencias y permisos deben
Visite la página web de vacunación de PGC COVID enviarse al Departamento del Código por cor-
para obtener información detallada, preinscripción y reo de los EE. UU. O enviarse por correo elec-
actualizaciones. Los plazos son estimaciones yestán trónico a zbell@berwynheightsmd.gov.
sujetos a cambios. Inspecciones de alquiler suspendidas hasta
nuevo aviso;
Fase 1: enero-febrero Servicio notarial de emergencia realizado por
Trabajadores de la salud, personal esencial y BHPD en 5411 Berwyn Rd. Llame al 301-474-
Poblaciones en riesgo 6774 para preguntar.
Todos los pagos se enviarán mediante cheque
Fase 2: marzo-abril
por correo de USPS a 5700 Berwyn Road,
Personal de infraestructura crítica y en riesgo Berwyn Heights, MD 20740.
Poblaciones
Visite el sitio web para obtener la información más
• Fase 3: mayo-junio reciente https://www.berwynheightsmd.gov/
Público en general
Berwyn Heights Bulletin — FEBRUARY 2021 — Page 3
PublicWorks@bewynheightsmd.gov TEL: 301-474-6897
Barrido de calles
Street Sweeping
La barredora de calles estará en la ciudad del 1 al 5 de
The street sweeper is in Town February 1 - 5.
febrero. Por favor, estacione su automóvil fuera de la
Please park your car off the street when you
calle cuando vea la barredora de calles en su área.
see the street sweeper in your area.
Colección Leaf Leaf Collection
Por favor coloque sus hojas en bolsas de basura de Please place your leaves into brown paper
jardín de papel marrón o en contenedores de basura de yard waste bags or into designated yard
jardín designados. Se recogerán los días de recolección waste bins. They will be picked up on yard
de desechos de jardín. waste collection days.
Reemplazo de la tubería principal de agua WSSC WSSC Water Main Replacement
WSSC continúa trabajando para reemplazar aproximad- WSSC continues to work on replacing approx-
amente 1.03 millas de nuestras tuberías principales de imately 1.03 miles of our water mains. Ex-
agua. La fecha prevista de finalización es septiembre de pected completion date is September 2021,
2021, si el clima lo permite. Si desea mantenerse actu- weather permitting. If you would like to be
alizado sobre este proyecto WSSC, puede registrarse kept updated on this WSSC project, you may
en wsscwater.com/CNS para recibir correos elec- sign-up at wsscwater.com/CNS to receive
trónicos y / o alertas de texto. emails and/or text alerts.
HOW WE PLOW
Senator Paul G. Pinsky's
TOWN STREETS
Scholarship When snow or ice shows signs of
Who may Apply: Current high school seniors, sticking to the ground, Public
full-time and part-time degree-seeking under- Works begins applying salt/ ice-melt to roads and walk-
ways. Plowing of roads begins once snow accumula-
graduate and graduate students who live in the
tion reaches 2”. Residents can assist Public Works by
22nd Legislative District.
moving their vehicles off the road during snow plowing
How to Apply: The application is available operations, where possible.
online at senatorpinsky.org. Complete and file
the Free Application for Federal Student Aid CÓMO ARRANCAMOS LAS CALLES
(FAFSA) in addition to Senator Paul G. Pinsky's
Cuando la nieve o el hielo muestran signos de pegarse
scholarship application.
al suelo, Obras Públicas comienza a aplicar sal / hielo
Award Criteria: Selection is based on academic derretido a las carreteras y pasarelas. El arado de las
achievement, financial need, and commitment to carreteras comienza una vez que la acumulación de
higher education. Awards range from $500 - nieve alcanza 2 ”. Los residentes pueden ayudar a
$2000. Obras Públicas al mover sus vehículos fuera de la car-
retera durante las operaciones de arado de nieve
Renewing an Award: If you received an award donde sea posible.
from Senator Pinsky during a previous academic
year, your award will be renewed automatically
Amount of Time to Make Time to Fully
as long as you maintain satisfactory academic Snow Roads Passable Clear Roads
progress.
< 4 inches 4-6 hours 1 day
Questions: 301-858-3155 or
paul.pinsky@senate.state.md.us 4-6 inches 6-8 hours 2-3 days
Deadline: April 1, 2021 > 6 inches 8+ hours 3-5 days
Berwyn Heights Bulletin — FEBRUARY 2021 — Page 4
W orksession Minutes
December 7, 2020
contracting with a locally serving
source, adopting renewable energy as
a value.
chase price. It is preferable to own the
equipment because the power supplied
would be free. If Berwyn Heights had
This meeting was held by videoconfer- Renewable energy is no longer more available land for a solar array, this
ence due to the ongoing COVID-19 health expensive than fossil fuel energy and option would be best. The amount of
emergency. may be a little cheaper when taken on land needed would depend on the en-
life-cycle cost basis, where life-cycle ergy consumption of the Town, which
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 cost is the cost of acquiring and main- determines the size of the array need-
p.m. Present were Mayor Amanda Dewey, taining the infrastructure that gener- ed.
Mayor Pro Tempore (MPT) Jodie Kulpa- ates the energy over its lifespan.
Eddy, Councilmembers (CMs) Jason Pa- The City of Greenbelt is in the process Alternatively, the Town could install
panikolas, Christopher Brittan-Powell, and of switching to solar power to cover solar panels on its buildings, and feed
Ethan Sweep. Also present were Town 90% of municipal energy use. In doing the generated electricity directly into
Manager (TM) Laura Allen, Town Clerk so, it expects to save money long-term the buildings’ electric systems. The
Kerstin Harper, Greenbelt Sustainability while minimizing fossil fuel use. dollar value of the generated electricity
Director Louisa Robles, Greenbelt Green Historically, energy prices gradually would be subtracted from the bill, a
Team Member Steve Skolnik and Green- increase over time but in the last 10 solution known as “net metering”. Roof
belt Green Aces Chair John Lippert. years energy prices have gone down installations of solar panels have come
due to the increased use of natural down in price and are readily available.
1. Announcements gas produced by hydraulic fracturing.
Mayor Dewey reminded everyone of their Community Solar is a Maryland pilot Mayor Dewey summed up that this
responsibilities in a period of surging project in which consumers, including discussion has brought up additional
COVID-19 cases, noting that this may municipalities, can sign up for solar options for energy supply, which re-
come to an end with the distribution of energy contracts at a cost that is quire some further research. This post-
vaccines to begin in early 2021. Mean- around 5% lower than Pepco’s stand- pones the signing of a contract to the
while, all residents are encouraged to con- ard service offer. For example, Neigh- new year.
sider smaller holiday gatherings and to be borhood Sun’s energy farm is located
as safe as possible. in Maryland and contributes to cleaner At 8:02 p.m., the Council took a 3-
air in this area. Community Solar resi- minute recess.
2. Approval of the Agenda dential contracts are between 1 and 5
On a motion by CM Papanikolas, and sec- years in length and can be terminated Town organizations policy: Mayor
ond by MPT Kulpa-Eddy the agenda was with a 30-day notice within a specified Dewey explained that the Council
approved 5 to 0. period. Municipal contracts may differ adopted a formal Town organizations
from residential contracts. policy in 2019, completing work that
3. Discussion Items To save money, a municipality can had begun under previous Councils.
Renewable energy discussion: Mayor aggregate its energy bills into one to The policy establishes two categories
Dewey explained that the Council was give it more negotiating power with of organizations, committees and as-
considering approval of a resolution at the suppliers. semblies, based on their relationship
November Town meeting to authorize the Another way to keep energy costs low with the Town government. Commit-
Town Manager to negotiate and sign ener- is going out to bid for the best energy tees are usually created by a Council
gy contracts on behalf of the Town. After offers. resolution, covered by the Town’s in-
extensive discussion, the Council request- surance policy and eligible to receive
Many renewable energy contracts in
ed more information on the cost of renew- budget appropriations. Assemblies are
this area are offered to earn energy
able versus standard energy options be- independent community organizations
credits for energy produced by wind
fore making a decision. Meanwhile, the that have no formal link to the Town.
farms located in the mid-west.
Town continues to operate on an expen- However, they do provide a valued
sive month-to-month contract. Renewable energy credits (RECs) are
service and are eligible to receive some
created by government to promote the
Town benefits, such as grants and free
TM Allen said she reached out to Green- development of renewable energy.
use of facilities.
belt’s Sustainability Director Louisa Ro- One REC is the production of 1 mega-
bles for advice. Ms. Robles recommended watt-hour (MWh) of electricity by a
The Council is requested to revisit the
Greenbelt solar energy expert Steve renewable energy source. In Maryland
policy because the pandemic has high-
Skolnik, a master electrician with exten- a REC is currently valued at around
lighted new limitations on how Town
sive experience in the electric power and $70. RECs can be purchased by ener-
organizations can operate that are un-
solar energy industries, and Greenbelt gy suppliers to offset conventional
der the Town’s insurance umbrella. In
Green Aces Chair John Lippert to help the energy sources to meet governmental
discussion, the following points were
Council evaluate energy options. They mandates for renewable energy gen-
made:
agreed to join this meeting for an energy eration.
Organizations designated as com-
roundtable discussion. The energy that powers Prince
mittees may want to re-evaluate
George’s homes comes from Pepco,
their relationship to the Town, if
Mayor Dewey said the Council is attempt- which is derived from natural gas
they want to hold events other than
ing to reconcile the goals of saving money (33.2%), nuclear power (29.1%), coal
those allowed by the Town during
and furthering the Town’s sustainability, (17.3%) and oil (0.1%).
the pandemic.
as laid out in its green purchasing policy Committees are also constrained
and the Green Team’s recent carbon foot- In response to TM Allen, Mr. Skolnik ex-
plained that the City of Greenbelt is not a by State regulations, such as the
print reduction initiative. In response to Open Meetings Act and the Public
Council’s questions, Mr. Lippert and Mr. Community Solar participant. It issued an
RFP to design an offsite solar farm from Information Act, requiring them to
Skolnik made the following points: give notice of meetings and to file
The Council should be clear about its which it will earn the entire benefit. Howev-
er, the City does not own the equipment minutes.
goals. Options include saving money, Restrictions on in-person meetings
reducing the Town’s carbon footprint, and only receives a discount on the pur-
Berwyn Heights Bulletin — FEBRUARY 2021 — Page 5
have raised new questions about a lishing a permit requirement and peak at- transition in the Town Treasurer position,
committee’s operating procedures, tendance limits. The policy would be ac- and limitations on community engage-
such as election of officers. companied by a fee schedule for holding ment due to the pandemic. The outlines
Currently, there are no widely ac- events to cover the Town’s costs. The poli- of the process are as follows:
cepted best practices for operating cy is silent on whether Town organizations December: Revenue projections, ex-
during a health emergency. For the fall under its purview, something on which penditure analysis, budget instructions to
most part, communities are develop- the Council is requested to provide guid- department directors;
ing processes as they go along. ance. January: Advertise and promote virtual
Berwyn Heights has an unusually public engagement process;
high number of committees that are The Council provided input on the draft
event policy, as follows: February: Hold virtual public meeting and
considered part of the Town. In other
The policy does not currently provide release survey (website and Bulletin);
municipalities committees are usually
guidance on which types of events the Department budgets due to Town Manag-
limited to entities that enforce or en-
Recreation Council can hold during the er;
sure compliance with a section of the
municipal code, such as a zoning pandemic. It still needs a framework March: Review and discuss results of
appeals board, planning commission for events held by Town organizations. public engagement process, present draft
or historic district commission. Fre- The policy’s utility in this emergency budget, hold budget work session;
quently, they are considered judicial would be improved by clearer defini- April: Budget work session, public hear-
or quasi-judicial as they can make or tions of what constitutes an ‘in-person’ ing, introduction and first reading of budg-
adjudicate rules that have the force event or a ‘parade.’ et ordinance;
of law. The policy provides useful controls for May: Public hearing (continued) and
Most Town organizations were asked events held by commercial entities and budget adoption.
if they wanted to become a commit- other non-Town entities.
tee prior to the adoption of the organ- For non-Town entities, minimizing lia- In response to Council questions, TM
ization policy. For example, the bility and covering cost are the princi- Allen said residents would see a draft
Men’s League chose to become one, pal objectives. budget by March on which they would be
whereas the Boys & Girls Club pre- For Town organizations, it may be able to comment. CM Papanikolas noted
ferred to remain independent. sufficient to designate someone who in recent years, the Council has held the
Some members of Town organiza- decides which events are allowed un- record open for public comments be-
tions have expressed concern about der particular circumstances. In this tween introduction and adoption of the
the volunteer spirit being dampened scenario, organizations might be re- budget.
by COVID restrictions and addition of quired to submit a plan before an
new requirements. event that must be approved by the TM Allen continued that she plans to de-
Town Manger and/ or Police Chief. If liver a ‘tight budget that hangs together
The Council agreed to send an annual the decision-maker cancels an event, technically.’ Department Directors will be
reminder of the policy to Town organiza- the decision should be appealable to given instructions based on the revenue
tions and to highlight their responsibilities the Town Council. projections.. She stated, the Council is
under Maryland law. This might include Berwyn Heights applied stricter stand- always free to ask about different scenari-
examples of agenda and minutes that ards than Greenbelt in not allowing a os or to change the budget as they see
satisfy minimum requirements. drive-in movie to be aired during fit. The Council requested that directors
Phase II of reopening from the pan- be advised to be prepared to answer how
Event policy discussion: Mayor Dewey demic. they would adjust their budgets if reve-
explained that the COVID-19 pandemic Old Greenbelt Theater, which hosted nues are 5% higher or 5% lower than
has raised questions about the Town’s an open-air movie, is an independent expected.
policy regarding the holding of community community organization whereas the
events and the rental of Town facilities. Berwyn Heights Recreation Council is There ensued a discussion about the
TM Allen said in August she advised the a Town committee and subject to the Town Manager’s role in adjusting staff
Council to suspend holding in-person Town’s liability insurance restrictions responsibilities when a position becomes
events until an event policy has been when hosting events. vacant.
developed. The policy she has drafted The principal limitation on Town events
covers not only events held at Town facili- is Town liability, as demonstrated by Greenbelt Road Task Force update:
ties but also events held within the Town the Berwyn Heights Day beer truck Mayor Dewey said that Berwyn Heights
using Town resources, such as a parade controversy. councilmembers met with Greenbelt and
or a large gathering. College Park councilmembers last month
The Council agreed that an event policy to develop a plan on how to move for-
TM Allen continued that she searched for should provide clarity on event limitations ward with a Greenbelt Road Task Force.
but was unable to find sample event poli- and decision-making authority. The extent No consensus was reached. Mayor Dew-
cies updated to cover the current pan- to which Town committees might be cov- ey thinks it would be more productive to
demic. It appears such policies are being ered by the event policy will require further establish a smaller working group of 1-2
adapted to the changing COVID re- discussion. Town organizations should be councilmembers from each city to come
strictions as the situation evolves. Howev- asked to give feedback once the Council up with a plan that would be submitted to
er, she has consulted general event poli- has consensus on the framework. a full meeting of the City Councils for
cies from several Maryland cities as well approval.
as the event manual of the Town’s insur- Budget and priority setting process: TM
er, the Local Government Insurance Trust Allen presented a proposed budget pro- In discussion, the Council agreed to pro-
(LGIT) in drafting the policy before the cess and setting of priorities for Council pose that a small working group should
Council. It is a broad policy covering a feedback. She said the process is designed draft a framework that the full Task Force
wide range of events that can be adapted for this year’s unique circumstances: a can act upon later. The framework might
for an emergency. It would establish shorter timeframe for setting priorities, a simply consist of a handful of propositions
greater control over the process by estab- all three cities must agree to be part of a
Berwyn Heights Bulletin — FEBRUARY 2021 — Page 6
plan so they can move forward in the same person gatherings are limited. On a motion by CM Sweep and second
direction. College Park is likely to be less by CM Papanikolas, the agenda was
invested in Greenbelt Road corridor plan- CM Papanikolas announced that Treasur- approved 4 to 0.
ning but could give valuable input based on er Rodriguez will leave service of the
its experience with the redevelopment of Town to take a new job and that the Vol- 3. Presentation
Route 1. CM Sweep, CM Brittan-Powell unteer Fire Department has sold out of Campus Community Connection (C3)
volunteered to serve on the working group. Christmas trees. TM Allen thanked the students’ presentation: Mayor Dewey
CM Papanikolas agreed to serve as an Fire Department chief for ensuring the welcomed University of Maryland (UMD)
alternate. Town was given a tree for its tree-lighting Community Outreach Coordinator An-
ceremony. drew Fellows and a group of UMD stu-
National League of Cities conference dents who worked on Berwyn Heights
report: Mayor Dewey, MPT Kulpa-Eddy CM Brittan-Powell reported that he re- flood risk project this semester as part of
and CM Brittan-Powell gave reports on a ceived feedback on the proposed tree the Town’s C3 partnership with the Uni-
virtual National League of Cities conference ordinance, with some expressing con- versity.
they attended last month. Normally, the cerns about imposing a penalty fee on top
Council does not attend this conference of the already high cost of tree removals. The UMD project team consisting of Alex
because it is expensive but since it was Dao, team liaison, Tsun Pung Lai, data
held virtually this year, it was affordable. CM Sweep reported that Public Works is analyst, Aesha Raza, project manager,
in the process of hiring new employees Rainy Fung, data researcher and Chris-
MPT Kulpa-Eddy said the conference is and that leaf collection is in progress. The tian Flores, design analyst, gave a
geared towards larger cities that generally Town will release more information about presentation on the project. Mr. Dao said
run their own utilities, public transport, and when to place leaves at the curb, so they the goal of the project was to identify
school systems. Therefore, many work- won’t sit out for too long. TM Allen said, high risk flooding areas in Berwyn
shops were not relevant for a small town due to staffing challenges, leaf collection Heights as well as the main causes of
like Berwyn Heights. She did learn a few is performed when there is time. People flooding. Surface permeability, quality of
interesting things in workshops about edu- who do not want to wait for the leaf vacu- the stormwater drainage systems and
cational engagement, mental health and um are encouraged to bag their leaves rainfall volume were found to be the main
safely re-opening in the pandemic. and put them out on regular yard waste causes of flooding. Berwyn Heights sur-
collection days. faces have an average rain permeability
CM Brittan-Powell said attending the NLC of 35% to 50%. The presence of streets,
conference made him appreciate the Mary- 6. Town Council Schedule homes and other paved surfaces reduce
land Municipal League, which is much more The Council reviewed the upcoming water absorption into the ground. In addi-
pragmatic. He found the NLC to be too po- schedule. TM Allen said the Council will tion, the Town’s stormwater intake sys-
litical and, like MPT Kulpa-Eddy, not partic- be presented with a yearly schedule of tem is not optimal, with some inlets being
ularly relevant to Berwyn Heights concerns. meetings and holidays for approval at the blocked.
upcoming Town meeting.
Mayor Dewey agreed that the NLC was Tsun Pung Lai said his focus was on
less relevant for a small town than an MML 7. Citizen Comments gathering and evaluating flooding data to
conference. However, she found value at a There were none. develop a stormwater management strat-
broader level by learning about different egy. Aesha Raza said the team initially
approaches and perspectives to the prob- The meeting was adjourned at 10:35 p.m. had difficulty finding data to analyze but
lems of governing. She focused on attend- after connecting with people in the Coun-
ing workshops related to public safety and ty’s Department of Public Works &
T
police-community relations. own Meeting Transportation (DPW&T) and Depart-
December 9, 2020 ment of the Environment, it gathered
5. Department Reports sufficient data to develop an effective
Mayor Dewey reminded everyone to follow This meeting was held by videoconfer- flood risk assessment tool. Tsun Pung
COVID-19 protocols, that letters to Santa ence due to the ongoing COVID-19 health Lai gave a demonstration of the tool that
are due for drop off at the Police station by emergency. will be made available through a dedicat-
December 18, and Toys for Tots must be ed website. The tool maps properties
dropped off by December 11. Chief Antolik Call to Order 7:00 p.m. that are at high risk of flooding and sug-
advises residents to lock their cars to pre- Present were Mayor Amanda Dewey, gests solutions to mitigate the flooding
vent break-ins and thefts and to be alert to Mayor Pro Tempore (MPT) Jodie Kulpa- risks.
packages at the door. Eddy, Councilmembers (CMs) Chris Brit-
tan-Powell, Jason Papanikolas, and Ethan Rainy Fung said the team is still working
MPT Kulpa-Eddy announced upcoming M- Sweep. CM Brittan-Powell arrived at 7:10 on a user manual for the tool and a final
NCPPC meetings for giving input on a p.m. Also present were Town Manager report, which will be made available
Youth Sports Strategic Plan initiative, which (TM) Laura Allen, Town Clerk Kerstin Har- when finished. Christian Flores said the
will guide how the newly created Prince per, University of Maryland (UMD) stu- team plans to hand the project over to
George’s County Youth and Countywide dents Alex Dao, Aesha Raza, Christian another team for further development of
Sports Division operates in the future. The Raphael Flores, Tsun Pung Lai, Rainy the tool, which they believe has a lot of
BHEAC has drafted an education grant Fung and UMD Community Outreach Co- potential. Overall, the team is happy with
application and is ready to present it to the ordinator Andrew Fellows. how the project turned out and thanked
Council for feedback. MPT Kulpa-Eddy also the Town for assisting them.
gave an overview of a new community en- Pledge of Allegiance
gagement pilot project, the Berwyn Heights In response to MPT Kulpa-Eddy, Mr.
Buddy Program. It seeks to match residents 1. Announcements Fellows said that the tool in its current
with each other based on shared interests There were none. stage will be delivered to the Town and
so they can communicate by telephone, can be used as seen fit. A possible follow
mail, email, or videoconference while in- 2. Approval of the Agenda -on project could be done by another
team in collaboration with the Town if
Berwyn Heights Bulletin — FEBRUARY 2021 — Page 7
there is interest. Mayor Dewey, MPT Kulpa attended a virtual National League of Cit- interacted with Thriving Earth Exchange.
-Eddy and CM Brittan-Powell said they are ies conference November 18-20; and the
looking forward to exploring the website Council held its annual legislative dinner MPT Kulpa-Eddy added that community
and thanked the students for their work. virtually on December 1. Further, M- garden plot tenants are requested to
NCPPC has launched an initiative to de- clean up planting beds before winter, and
4. Approval of Minutes velop a Youth Sports strategic plan residents are encouraged to take the
On a motion by CM Sweep, seconded by dubbed ‘Game On’ and would like to get litter survey posted on the Town website.
MPT Kulpa-Eddy, the October 19 workses- input from interested residents at upcom-
sion minutes were approved 5 to 0, as ing meetings. The information has been Historical Committee: BHHC Chair
amended. On a motion by MPT Kulpa- shared with the Berwyn Heights Boys & Debby Steele-Snyder announced an up-
Eddy, seconded by CM Sweep, the No- Girls Club and will be posted to the Town coming meeting, which will be held virtu-
vember 2 worksession minutes were ap- website. Input can also be given through ally. The BHHC Facebook page offers
proved 5 to 0. On a motion by CM Sweep, the webpage www.pgparks.com/Game- historical presentations as part of the
seconded by MPT Kulpa-Eddy, the Novem- On-Plan. Committee’s virtual wine & cheese
ber 10 Town meeting minutes were ap- events series. Accompanying wine glass-
proved 5 to 0. Public Works: CM Sweep reported that es with BHHC logo are for sale through
Public Works has hired two new employ- Ms. Steele-Snyder. Per request by MPT
5. Mayor’s Report ees. Curbside leaf collection continues Kulpa-Eddy, the Committee is reviewing
Mayor Dewey said the Town tries to ensure through the end of December and trash its historic markers to ensure they don’t
that residents get the services they need collection is cancelled for the Christmas contain objectionable content.
during the pandemic and reminded resi- and New Year holidays.
dents to keep up their efforts to stay safe Neighborhood Watch/ Emergency Pre-
and limit gatherings during the holidays. In response to MPT Kulpa-Eddy, TM Allen paredness: NW/EP Chair Mike Attick
Mayor Dewey also noted that the Maryland said the prospective Public Works em- reported that the Town took delivery of a
covidLINK system is now available as a ployees are still undergoing background new emergency trailer. He still needs a
phone app, which alerts you if you have checks and that she has not yet resumed key to access it. The Committee is push-
been in contact with someone who has the search for a Public Works director. ing to sign up new members to assist
been exposed to the virus. BHPD, soon to lose two officers to retire-
Public Safety: Mayor Dewey reported ment, with neighborhood watching. The
6. Department Reports that letters to Santa will be accepted at main complaint received by the Commit-
CM Papanikolas moved, and CM Sweep the Police Station until December 18 and tee is about thefts from vehicles. Resi-
seconded to accept the department reports Toys for Tots until December 11. Resi- dents can greatly reduce that risk by
into the record. The motion passed 5 to 0. dents are advised to keep checking for locking their cars.
packages delivered to their door and to
Administration: CM Papanikolas reported lock their cars to prevent thefts. She Recreation Council: Recreation Council
that Treasurer Rodriguez has accepted thanked police officers and fire fighters for President Susan Jones reported that the
another position and wished her success in continuing to work over the holidays to virtual tree lighting party came together
her new role. keep residents safe. well thanks to many resident musicians
who pitched in with performances. The
Town Manager’s Report: TM Allen report- In response to CM Brittan-Powell, Mayor recording is still available on the Recrea-
ed that Berwyn Heights was permitted to Dewey said that Berwyn Heights police is tion Council’s YouTube channel. Another
reallocate CARES Act funds towards Police working with Greenbelt Police and other virtual concert is scheduled for January
Department expenses and food support for agencies to address the motorcycle and 14 at 7:00 pm.
Prince George’s County residents. The car racing on Kenilworth Avenue. It is diffi-
Town also received a $45,000 reimburse- cult to catch the perpetrators because MPT Kulpa-Eddy announced a new com-
ment under the CARES Act, is evaluating 5 they put out spotters to watch for police munity connections pilot program, in
small business grant applications for before racing. She will refer further ques- which residents can meet up with some-
CARES Act funds and has scheduled a tions on this subject to Chief Antolik, who one else in Town by telephone, email or
deep cleaning of Town facilities. TM Allen can provide more details. video chat. Interested residents will be
also noted upcoming holiday closures and matched with someone else based on
encouraged residents to sign up for the e- 7. Committee Reports shared interests. Details about the pro-
newsletter. Education Advisory Committee: MPT gram will be announced in the Town Bul-
Kulpa-Eddy reported that the BHEAC will letin, the website and social media.
Code Compliance: CM Brittan-Powell said hold its next virtual meeting on January
the Code staff is trying to be mindful of 25. Committee members have developed 8. Old Business
hardships residents may be suffering due an education grant application form which There was none.
to the pandemic when enforcing code regu- they plan to present to the Council in Jan-
lations. He commended them for their con- uary. The committee is also developing a 9. New Business
tinued service and for dealing with some workplan for 2021, which focuses on virtu- Resolution 17-2020 – Capital Improve-
difficult situations. Mayor Dewey noted that al learning and mitigating potential nega- ment Program Policy: Mayor Dewey
the monthly Code Compliance report has tive outcomes. said, following receipt of the final report
undergone reformatting and contains some of the Walkable, Bikeable Berwyn
useful new graphics. Green Team: Mayor Dewey reported that Heights Task Force (WBBH) in early
the Town’s Tree City USA application has 2020, the Council discussed adopting a
Parks, Recreation, Education and Civic been submitted. The Green Team also policy in a Council Rule to consider side-
Affairs: MPT Kulpa-Eddy reported that she prepared questions for a recent discus- walk construction whenever a road pro-
attended a November 17 forum on local sion with Pepco on new LED lights and ject is undertaken. TM Allen in turn sug-
government budgets during COVID-19 in tree trimming; discussed how to reduce gested that this type of decision might
preparation for the upcoming budget sea- litter in Town during the pandemic; ex- more appropriately be made in the con-
son; that she and other Councilmembers plored becoming a Bee City, USA, and text of a Capital Improvement Program
(CIP).
Berwyn Heights Bulletin — FEBRUARY 2021 — Page 8
TM Allen said the Council reviewed a projects when road improvement projects the Town’s Wi-Fi network is password
first draft of the CIP policy in November are planned. protected.
and proposed a couple of changes. One
was to reference Town committees gen- CARES Act food donations: TM Allen CM Papanikolas said that Wi-Fi networks
erally, rather than the WBBH specifically, explained that the County allowed Berwyn are relatively simple to establish and could
as entities who could recommend capital Heights to reallocate $9,400 of its CARES probably be set up in more places around
projects for inclusion in a CIP. Another Act funds towards food support donations. Town. He offered to look into whether and
was to clarify the meaning of ‘cost- Some local options include Meals on how this might be done. TM Allen added
effective’ as a criterion for ranking and Wheels-College Park, Berwyn Presbyteri- that Greenbelt is working on creating
scoring CIP projects. The revised policy an Church’s food pantry, Capital Area more hot spots throughout its city. She
defines ‘cost-effective’ as “something of Food Bank or other food programs. The can reach out to their IT director to find
good value, where the benefits for usage Council is requested to choose an organi- out more about their initiative. The City of
are worth at least what is paid for them.” zation to which a donation should be made Berlin has worked with its utility to lever-
by the deadline of December 15. age electric meters to set up a Wi-Fi net-
TM Allen continued that the CIP process work, something that could be explored
set forth in the policy charges a CIP re- MPT Kulpa-Eddy proposed splitting the with Pepco.
view committee, consisting of the depart- money between the Berwyn Presbyterian
ment directors and the Town Manager, Church and Meals on Wheels. CM Papani- The meeting was adjourned at 9:15 p.m.
with scoring proposed capital projects kolas so moved. CM Sweep seconded.
and then recommending a list of priori- The motion passed 5 to 0. Signed: Kerstin Harper, Town Clerk
tized projects to the Town Manager. The
Town Manager reviews the projects and Council 2021 meeting schedule: Mayor
in turn makes recommendations to the Dewey said the Council was presented
Town Council. The Town Council re- with an annual schedule of Town holidays
views, modifies and approves the CIP as and Council meetings for 2021 for adop-
part of the annual budget process. The tion. The Council reviewed the schedule MINUTOS DE
CIP planning process also assesses the for needed adjustments and agreed to REUNIONES DEL CONSEJO
Town’s fiscal capacity to ensure funding move the February 15 worksession to Feb-
is available for the life of each project, ruary 17, the July 5 worksession to July EN ESPAÑOL
which can stretch over multiple years. 12, and to cancel the September 6 and
Finally, the Town Manager is responsible December 20 worksessions. CM Brittan- El sitio web de Town of Berwyn Heights
for monitoring the CIP program and giv- Powell moved, and CM Sweep seconded ahora se puede ver en diferentes idio-
ing a status report to the Council on a to approve the 2021 Council schedule.
mas usando Google Translate. Haga
quarterly basis. The motion passed 5 to 0.
clic en el cuadro "Seleccionar idioma"
8. Citizen Discussion junto al cuadro "Buscar" y elija su idio-
CM Brittan Powell moved, and CM
Sweep seconded to approve the Resolu- Mike Attick, 62nd Avenue, commented by ma.
tion. telephone about a doorhanger code cita- Los Minutos de las reuniones del Con-
tion he received but found across the sejose pueden encontrar en la página
In discussion, the following points were street. He suggested code officials be
de inicio haciendo clic en el botón
made: more careful about delivery of notices so
that residents are not caught unawares. "Minutos y Agendas" en el Centro de
It might be useful to broaden the
Acción Ciudadana.
category of ‘sidewalk improvements’
to encompass pedestrian and/ or MPT Kulpa-Eddy noted that she received www.berwynheightsmd.gov/node/782/
bicycle connectivity improvements a doorhanger from Xfinity/Comcast notify- minutes/2019
generally. ing her of planned service upgrades and
The policy’s scoring criteria for capi- possible interruptions. She asked if TM
tal projects might result in a lower Allen could find out what upgrades are
score for sidewalk projects, such as being planned.
proposed by the WBBH. MINUTES OF
Charts or tables might be used to Joan Hayden, Seminole Street, comment-
illustrate the cost-effectiveness of ed by telephone that a lid that had only COUNCIL MEETINGS
recently been placed on a trash can near
projects during the scoring process
the Indian Creek bike trail has gone miss-
IN SPANISH
but need not be explicitly mentioned
in the policy. ing and trash is again being blown into the
neighborhood. Mayor Dewey replied that The Town of Berwyn Heights website
Mike Attick, 62nd Avenue, asked wheth- Public Works will check on it. can now be viewed in different lan-
er new sidewalks are being planned and guages using Google Translate.
recalled problems with a recent sidewalk CM Brittan Powell said he was asked by
Please click on the ‘Select Language”
construction project. Mayor Dewey clari- some younger residents whether the Town
could provide public Wi-Fi service Town- box next to the ‘Search’ box and
fied that no specific sidewalk projects are choose your language.
being considered at this time but rather a wide. With more online learning internet
policy for considering sidewalks when access has become a basic need. Mayor
road improvement projects are planned. Dewey said that is an interesting idea and Town Council Minutes can be found
might be explored with Park & Planning, on the home page by clicking on the
Clerk Harper read the Resolution. The which owns some of the recreational areas ‘Minutes & Agendas’ button in the
Council voted 5 to 0 to approve Resolu- in Town. She believes Berwyn Heights
Elementary School has a public Wi-Fi net- Citizen Action Center.
tion 17-2020 with an amendment that https://www.berwynheightsmd.gov/
requires consideration of all types of work that can be accessed from the park-
ing lot, as does the Town office. However, node/782/minutes/2019
pedestrian and bikeway connectivity
Berwyn Heights Bulletin — FEBRUARY 2021 — Page 9
Karel C. Petraitis
General Law Practice
Specializing in Family Law, Wills, and Estates
7100 Baltimore Avenue, Suite 205
College Park, Maryland 20740
Business: (301) 277-1443
Berwyn Heights Bulletin — FEBRUARY 2021 — Page 10
Abacus international tax services
Owner: Lily Qi 301)728-1097
30% off 1st
Town resident since 2009
appointment!
Tax services
• Individual and business tax return
• Tax planning and bookkeeping
• IRS audit representation
Hi, my name is Lily, I have provided tax service for
this community since 2013 when I was working at
H&R Block. Two years ago, I decided to work on my
own. During this pandemic, my tax service is Virtual
and there is no contact. Just send your documents via
secure link on my website, email, fax, or arrange
a drop off. Interviews can be done via zoom, face
time, we chat or WhatsApp.
Office/fax: (301)474-2638
Email: llyqi99@gmail.com
Website: abacusintltax.com
peihua2.wixsite.com/tax2lily
Member of MSATP NATP
NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH/ EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
VIRTUAL MEETING 1st WED of month CHAIR: Mike Attick, Tel. 301-335-1633
Join us February 3, 7pm. To participate contact BHPD at 301-474-6554
Or email mmuralles@berwynheightsmd.gov
Stakeholders,
To confront a changing climate, it is incumbent upon all of us, not just in this region or this country, but the world, to
make changes to our everyday life. Since childhood, certain planet-healing actions have become ingrained into our
everyday lives. Actions like recycling, like turning off lights when they’re not in use, and growing a home garden.
These actions are not hard, nor should they be controversial.
Emergency preparedness requires balance.
It requires strategy, not stockpiling.
It requires pooling resources with friends, family, and neighbors, not hoarding resources.
It requires accounting for the effects of a changing climate, for the recognition of an increase in extreme weather,
and the acceptance of science.
Perhaps some of you have children, grandchildren, nieces, or nephews. A favorite song of nursery schools, elemen-
tary schools, and daycares is The Earth is My Mother by Carol Johnson. So simple in its message, the song teaches
children about Mother Earth and its role in our lives. The lyrics read:
The earth is my mother Food on the table The earth is my mother and my best friend, too
She’s good to me The clothes I wear The great provider for me and you
She gives me everything that I ever need The sun and the water..... Her ways are gentle, her life is strong.....
The lyrics are elementary. The lesson, so simple children can understand it. The message is strong. The action re-
quired is feasible. This month, we’re asking you to keep the goal of a sustainable planet in mind as you prepare for
the next emergency.Berwyn Heights Bulletin — FEBRUARY 2021 — Page 11
Berwyn Heights Elementary School PTA
Family Game Night Free meals for
February 5, Friday, 6:30—8:00 pm students
You’re invited to a virtual game night! We’ll start All PGCPS students
with a brief parent meeting and then break into can pick up meals at
groups for games. Look for the Zoom link—it will Berwyn Heights
come in a message from the school through Class Elementary every week
Dojo. on Monday and
Wednesday from 10-1.
Find us on Facebook: Berwyn Heights ES PTA
BH EAC Virtual Meeting Reunión virtual BH-EAC
February 22 - 7pm 22 de febrero - 7pm
Let's show our love for our teachers this Demostremos nuestro amor por nuestros maestros es-
month!! The BH EAC will be hosting a padlet te mes !! El BH-EAC albergará un sitio de padlet y re-
site and collecting messages for all of copilará mensajes para todos nuestros maestros de
our elementary, middle school, & high school primaria, secundaria y preparatoria. ¡Ayúdanos a de-
teachers. Help us show them how much we mostrarles cuánto apreciamos su apoyo! Estaremos
appreciate their support! We will be collecting recolectando mensajes para todos los maestros hasta
messages for all the teachers until February el 15 de febrero.
15th.
Enlace al sitio de Padlet donde puede publicar su men-
Link to the Padlet site where you can post your saje: https://padlet.com/
message: https://padlet.com/ joannaswhitaker/8cqtz7m7w6oarp1m
joannaswhitaker/8cqtz7m7w6oarp1m
Enlace a instrucciones sobre cómo publicar un men-
Link to directions on how to post a message on saje en Padlet: https://padlet.com/support/
Padlet: https://padlet.com/support/ padlets_howtopost
padlets_howtopost
Esperamos que todos ustedes se unan a nosotros pa-
We hope all of you will join us in making sure ra asegurarse de que nuestros maestros sepan cuánto
our teachers know how much we love them. los amamos.
Please contact thebheac@gmail.com if you Comuníquese con thebheac@gmail.com si desea un
would like a link for our February 22nd virtual enlace para nuestra reunión virtual del 22 de febrero.
meeting.Berwyn Heights Bulletin — FEBRUARY 2021 — Page 12
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO JANUARY ACTIVITIES
CANCELLED: All regular Senior’s Club activities have been
suspended due to the COVID-19 health emergency. Please
February 3 Phil Waltz check the Town website for updates.
February 4 Dave Wolfinger Remember,
Those in need
February 8 Frank Baxter Don’t always
Need answers. All
It sometimes takes is
February 15 Ron Luftman
For someone to tell them
That. “It’s ok not to b ok.”
February 23 Karen Reznek
DRIVERS NEEDED
February 23 Barron Wilson MEALS ON WHEELS—COLLEGE PARK
More Information: 202-669-6297
Historical Committee
Discover Historic College Park Airport
In 1909, after proving the practicality of aviation to the U.S. Army,
Wilbur Wright trained the first generation of military aviators at a new
airfield near the Maryland Agricultural College/ University of Maryland.
Ever since, the College Park Airport has made aviation history, and lays
claim to being the oldest continually operated airport in the world. It is
home to many "firsts" in aviation, and is known for the number of fa-
mous aviators & aviation inventors who are associated with the airfield.
Explore College Park Airport Milestones and sign up for a presentation
on African American Military Aviators, Part 1 on February 3, 6 –7 pm
NEXT MEETING (VIRTUAL) NEW OFFICERS
FEBRUARY 24, 2021 | 7:30 PM
To participate, please contact Sharmila Bhatia Chair: Debby Steele Snyder
at sharmila_bhatia88@hotmail.com
All other inquiries to dsteelesny@yahoo.com Vice Chair: Lee Fuerst
For more information visit our Facebook Page
or BHHC Website. Secretary: Sharmila BhatiaBerwyn Heights Bulletin — FEBRUARY 2021 — Page 13
Since we are unable to host an
in-person Valentine’s Day Event, join
us by cutting out and coloring these
images to create your own
Valentine’s Day Cards!
*Kids - Please have an adult
help with scissors.
Until the Rec Council can safely resume
in-person meetings we are conducting all of
our business via email. To be added to our
email list, contact Susan at
violindreams@verizon.netBerwyn Heights Bulletin — FEBRUARY 2021 — Page 14
The Town Council invites you to attend the February 17th virtual
Worksession to share your thoughts on what you love about Berwyn
Heights, how the Town is changing and what actions would make
Berwyn Heights an even better place. The answers to these ques-
tions will help the Council set priorities for the upcoming fiscal year,
which starts on July 1st. The zoom meeting information is published
with the agenda here, or call Town Hall at 301-474-9570 if you pre-
fer. We look forward to seeing you and hearing from you!
FY 2021 Resident Budget Survey
The Town Council wants to hear from you! As the budget preparation process ap-
proaches, which of these should be the top three areas they should focus on? (Mark
any three)
Public buildings
Pedestrian and biker safety
Sustainability
Recreation and parks
Community engagement and communications
Town vehicles and equipment
Condition of streets, sidewalks and other infrastructure
Garbage and recycling services
Code compliance
Police and Fire services
Other ___________________
Drop off the survey to Town Hall or mail it to Laura Allen, Town Manager, 5700 Berwyn
Road, Berwyn Heights, MD 20740 by February 19th. Thank you!Berwyn Heights Bulletin — FEBRUARY 2021 — Page 15
El Consejo lo invita a asistir a la Sesión de Trabajo virtual del 17 de
febrero para compartir sus pensamientos sobre lo que ama de Berwyn
Heights, cómo está cambiando la cuidad y qué acciones harían de
Berwyn Heights un lugar aún mejor. Las respuestas a estas preguntas
ayudarán al Consejo a establecer prioridades para el próximo año
fiscal, que comienza el 1 de julio. La información de la reunión de
zoom se publica con la agenda aquí, o llame al Ayuntamiento al 301-
474-9570 si lo prefiere. ¡Esperamos verte y saber de ti!
Encuesta de presupuesto para residentes del año fiscal 2021
El Consejo quiere saber de ti! A medida que se acerca el proceso de preparación del
presupuesto, ¿cuáles de estas deberían ser las tres áreas principales en las que deberían
centrarse? (Marque tres)
Edificios públicos
Seguridad de peatones y ciclistas
Sostenibilidad
Recreación y parques
Comunicaciones y participación comunitaria
Vehículos y equipos urbanos
Estado de calles, aceras y otra infraestructura
Servicios de basura y reciclaje
Cumplimiento del código
Servicios de policía y bomberos
Otro __________________________
Entregue la encuesta al Ayuntamiento o envíela por correo a Laura Allen, Administradora
del Pueblo, 5700 Berwyn Road, Berwyn Heights, MD 20740 antes del 19 de febrero.
Gracias!Berwyn Heights Bulletin — FEBRUARY 2021 — Page 16
PREMIER MEDICAL CENTER Early Morning/ Late Evening Call Us: 301-345-3711
6201 Greenbelt Road, Suite L-7
Appointments Available
Berwyn Heights, MD Most Insurances Accepted:
(across from Staples) Medicare Medicaid | Blue Cross/ Blue Shield
www. amwellorthopt.com United Healthcare | AetnaBerwyn Heights Bulletin — FEBRUARY 2021 — Page 17
Berwyn Heights Bulletin — FEBRUARY 2021 — Page 18
Berwyn Heights Bulletin — FEBRUARY 2021 — Page 19
Berwyn Heights Bulletin — FEBRUARY 2021 — Page 20
BULLETIN BOARD out of College Park location. Please 301- 345-1746.
call 301-474-1002 M-F, 8:30-12p if
available. New Home Brewing Club – Calling
all homebrewers and mead makers in
Adult Education - Zoom ESL Classes
Need Yard Help? Shawn and Jeremy Berwyn Heights to help inaugurate a
English for Speakers of Other Lan-
have helped Berwyn Heights residents home brewing club. Let’s get together
guages • (ESL) Literacy, beginning, &
with mowing, raking, mulching, and to brew, taste, and exchange ideas. It
intermediate English classes • nstruct- more for several years. Call 240-601- doesn’t matter if you’re a novice or an
ion & practice in speaking & under- 1298. expert. Just send me an email and
standing English • Instruction in read- let’s get brewing. Contact:
ing, writing & grammar in real life con- Get Out More! Let me help you free jason.michel@comcast.net
texts • GED Prep & US Citizenship Test up your time by helping you in different
Prep. ways. If you have children, I babysit Yard work and snow shoveling: My
Contact Kathy Brosh kathbrosh@ age 3 and up. Do your kids need help name is Gannon Forbes, a teenager in
gmail.com or 301-310-3809 in school? I tutor in different subjects. Berwyn Heights, who would like to
Don’t have time to exercise your lova- help you with your yard work. If the
Want adventure and achievement? ble pet? I enjoy dog walking/sitting. weather outside turns frightful, it will be
Join Boy Scout Troop 740. We meet at Please call Greta at 301-982-7115. delightful to shovel your snow! CALL
Holy Redeemer’s Fealy Hall every References upon request. Gannon @ 301-982-7115 for a one
Tuesday evening. For details, call time or weekly job.
scoutmaster Loren Lavoy at 301-651- Help is Here. Do you need help gro-
4928. cery shopping, bill paying, pick up pre-
scriptions, post office run, general
Approved Childcare of Essential household management, shopping
Personnel Opening for infant to 12 and more...look no further...for $20 per
years old. Licensed and approved by hour have your own personal conci-
the State to provide childcare during erge. Reliable, Dependable, Fast, and
COVID-19. Meals provided. Openings more importantly, TRUSTWORTHY.
Monday-Friday from 6 AM to 6 PM. Call Jackie at 202-669-6297. I’ll be
Please contact Karuna at 301-345- there tomorrow.
2939 or karunaemeldarozario@
outlook.com. Loving, Licensed Child Care: (CDA)
credentialed in BH. M-F 6:30 AM to
Piano Lessons in your home. Former 5:30 PM. Ura Daley, 301-313-9131.
PGCPS music teacher, experienced
Infant or Senior Care: Nurse/midwife,
private instructor. Students with special
recent US refugee, legal with work
Cleaning your home like my
needs welcome. Ms. Liz 240-601- own. Residential & commercial.
2825.quote today. Call 202-820-0771. permit, looking for infant care or senior
care. Full or part time. IRC interna- References available in Berwyn
Lawn Mowing and Trimming, yard tionally certified. Worked in Burundi Heights. Over 10 years profes-
raking and cleanup, basement and Tanzania. Special gift with babies, sional experience. Providing
cleanout, painting, plumbing, general children with disabilities, and disabled
adults. Intermediate English, fluent
my own materials at reasonable
handyman. Reasonable rates and flexi-
ble schedule. Call Phil at 202-718- French. Does not drive. Contact price.
8530. Berwyn Heights references avail- jeynekanyudo@gmail.com
able. Call (240) 645-5140 or email
House Cleaning: Help with shopping, angelalazo1@hotmail.com
Meals-on-Wheels needs your HELP! cooking, etc. 40-year resident of
This 45-year old program needs volun- Berwyn Heights. Very reliable and Also ask about handyman ser-
teers to help with their daily operations reasonable rates. Please call DJ at vices
Thomas A. Gentile, Attorney
301-908-9427 (cell)
tgentile301@yahoo.com
www/thomasgentile.com
Berwyn Heights Resident
Admitted to Practice, MD, DC, VA
Over 45 years experience
Wills, Powers of Attorney, Probate, Trusts,
Home Visits to Berwyn Heights Residents.Berwyn Heights Bulletin — FEBRUARY 2021 — Page 21
pm, ‘SUSPICIOUS SUBJECT’ Book Pro, and antique Jewelry. The
December On 12/11/2020 at 11:57 PM, a
Berwyn Heights resident contacted
incident is under investigation, with
multiple follow ups to come.
Incidents the police to report a suspicious sub-
ject loitering near his front yard. Cpl. Thursday, December 17, 2020 at
Roberson responded and discovered 7:50 pm, ‘THEFT’
Wednesday, December 02, 2020, at the subject standing on the sidewalk At 7:50 PM, five unknown suspects
1:00 pm, ‘FRAUD’ in front of a resident’s house. The entered the T-Mobile store, located
At approximately 1:09 pm, Cpl. Hol- subject had been drinking and possi- at 8904 62nd Avenue, and stole a
lowell was dispatched to the Sandy bly has an intellectual disability. The display version of the i-Phone 12 Pro
Spring Bank located in the 6300 block subject was checked for warrants Max. The suspects were seen on
of Greenbelt Road for a suspicious with negative results. A cursory video surveillance crowded around
person passing a bad check. Upon check for weapons was negative as the display table, while one of them
arrival, Cpl. Hollowell identified the well. The subject indicated that he forcefully delivered hand strikes to
victim as the person tendering a bad lost his cell phone in the area. After the phone display security bracket,
check to a representative of Sandy obtaining the subjects information he causing the phone to dismount. Four
Spring Bank. The investigation dis- was sent on his way. out of the five then attempted to
closed that the victim had received forcefully take two other phones on
check # 100161259, Lakeside Title Wednesday, December 16, 2020 at the same display table but were un-
Company, dated November 30, 2020, 12:09 pm, ‘DEATH INVESTIGA- successful. The group fled the scene
in the amount $3,980. The check was TION’ on foot in the direction of 6201
made out to her to pay for a ring she Cpl. Hollowell was dispatched to the Greenbelt Road and entered an un-
was selling on Craig's List. The CL 8500 block of Cunningham Drive for known make and color vehicle.
advertisement had a description of the an assist to the Fire Department for a
ring accompanied by a photo. Victim working CPR call. The patient/ dece- Sunday, December 23, 2020, at
reported that she was contacted by dent was found not breathing by her 12:34 pm, ‘FRAUD’
email approximately two weeks ago son that morning. A medic unit came On 12/23/2020, Victim reported that
by a Jennifer O'Conner, who wanted on scene and performed CPR and unknown suspect(s) hacked into his
to buy the ring and after some negoti- resuscitation attempts under supervi- company’s website, StarLinx Driving
ation purchased it. On 12/1/2020 Vic- sion of Dr. Kahn, Prince George's School. Victim told Cpl. Hollowell,
tim received a UPS delivered enve- County Hospital Center. The patient on 12/12/2020, he was notified by
lope at her job site in Hyattsville, The was pronounced dead at 12:52 PM. his IT specialist that StarLinx website
UPS envelope contained the afore- During the investigation, the son dis- had been hacked. The IT specialist
mentioned check which the victim closed that his mother was under the found a g-mail account, not associat-
assumed to be valid and attempted to care of her doctor for breathing prob- ed with the school, had diverted
deposit at the Bank. Based on the lems and had recently been pre- funds to a PayPal account. The un-
check amount, the Bank sought to scribed Ibuprofen and several other known suspect created a username
verify issuance with Lakeside Title medications. He further stated his 'LELEIJO@GMAIL.COM causing
Company, determined it was fraudu- mother had slept on the couch the five students to send payments total-
lent and notified police. The original of past several days and had last been ing $1,600.00 for their scheduled
the check was retained by Sandy responsive during the previous night driving course to the PayPal ac-
Spring Bank. An investigation by when she asked for water and other count. StarLinx was able to notify the
Berwyn Heights CID is ongoing. items. A forensic investigator was students of the breach who had pay-
briefed but declined by OCME after ments halted by their respective
Monday, December 07, 2020, at Dr. Ajayi agreed to sign off on the banking institutions. The students
10:00 am, ‘PROPERTY DAMAGE’ death certificate. There were no indi- paid the driving school and were
On 12/07/2020 at approximately 10:00 cations of a COVID infection. PGPD able to continue instruction. There
AM, Officer Rufino received a station homicide was also notified. The de- are no other losses as a result of the
call for a damage report to a vehicle cedent’s body was released to the activity.
located in the 8500 block of Paxton family for arrangements by Gasch's
Court. Upon arrival, she met with vic- Funeral Home. No further investiga- Thursday, December 24, 2020, at
tim, who stated that she parked her tion is contemplated at this time. 1:50 am, ‘STOLEN AUTO’
vehicle in front of her house on the cul Cpl. Hollowell was dispatched to
-de-sac on Saturday 12/5/2020 at ap- Thursday, December 17, 2020 at 6327 Greenbelt Road, Greenbelt
proximately 5:00 PM. On Sunday 7:34 pm, ‘BURGLARY’ Road Shell, for a reported stolen tow
morning 12/6/2020 she observed that At 7:34 PM, the Berwyn Heights Po- truck. Hollowell met with the owner
her vehicle had sustained a deep in- lice Department received a 911 call and was shown surveillance video of
dentation on the driver’s door. The for a breaking and entering report of an unknown suspect entering and
victim believes that one of the delivery a home in the 8900 block of 57th Av- taking a tow truck. Preliminary inves-
trucks might have struck it while turn- enue. Officer Scales arrived and was tigation indicates the truck was
ing around. Neighbors confirm that on advised by the victim that an un- backed up in the wooded strip along
Saturday several delivery trucks were known suspect had entered the the Edmonston Road spur. The sur-
in the cul-de-sac. above listed residence forcefully veillance video does not capture the
through the rear basement window. suspect, who may have approached
Friday, December 11, 2020, at 11:55 The unknown suspect stole multiple from the rear of the vehicle to avoid
items including an Apple TV, Mac-You can also read
