Montpelier Hills News

How to Recycle Your Christmas Tree Dec 27 - Jan 31, 2012

2011-12-21T11:22:00.003-05:00

Beginning December27, 2011, through January 31, 2012, county residents with yard waste collection may placetheir undecorated, unbagged, live Christmas trees atthe curb by 6:30 a.m. on their regularly scheduled weekly yard waste collection day collectionday. (Wednesdays in Montpelier Hills) The trees will be picked up and turned into free mulch for county residents in the Spring (for mulch info call the DER's Recycling Section at 301-883-5045)

Residents may alsobring unadorned trees, free of charge, to the followinglocations for recycling from December 27, 2011 through January 31, 2012.

Prince George’sCounty

Yard Waste CompostingFacility

6601 Southeast CrainHighway

Upper Marlboro,Maryland

Monday throughFriday, 7:30 a.m.– 3:30 p.m.

Brown Station RoadPublic Convenience Center

3501 Brown StationRoad

Upper Marlboro,Maryland

Monday throughSaturday, 7:00 a.m.– 6:00 p.m.

For more information see the county Yard Waste Collection web page or (301) 952-7630.

This tip was provided by our local Police District VI Community Oriented Policing Services team, who wish you all Happy Holiday.

How to Prevent Freezing Pipes in Montpelier Hills

2011-10-31T13:40:00.000-04:00

In late October or early November, night-time temperatures start to drop below freezing. That is the time to take these simple precautions to prevent your outside water pipes from freezing this winter -- to avoid possible damage from burst pipes.

Turn off the two inside shut-off valves (usually near the hot water heater or water meter) that feed water to the front and rear outside water faucets.
Then open the outside faucets.
Then unscrew and remove the little "air bleed" caps on the side of each inside shut-off valve.
Most outside faucets in Montpelier Hills have a positive pressure fitting with a plastic tab in the throat of the faucet.
For each outside faucet, tilt that tab sideways to ensure that all the water drains out.
Now close the outside faucets.
Finally, replace the air bleed caps on the interior shut-off valves -- finger tight, no tools -- so they don't get lost or leak when you turn the water on again in the Spring.

Sat Nov 5 MH Community Yard Sale (2011)

2011-10-27T17:44:00.002-04:00

Montpelier Hills Community Yard Sale
Saturday November 5 Time 8 am to 1 pm
Montpelier Elementary School Parking Lot
9200 Muirkirk Rd
Set up 7 am to 8 am
No Rain Date
For information email Kim at MHYardSale@gmail.com

CrimeReports.com Maps Local Crime Incidents

2011-08-31T10:51:00.000-04:00

See CrimeReports.com Maps Local Crime Incidents

May 21 Missing Cat

2011-05-22T20:10:00.002-04:00

This male cat, named Piccolo, escaped late yesterday afternoon, and he has not come home yet. He disappeared behind the row of townhouses on Fairlane Pl that face the Parkway [MAP]. He tends to be very shy and may be hiding under a nearby deck. He is a 4 year old Chocolate Brown (looks Black) cat with short hair. He has a long thin body and tail and pretty green eyes. He doesn't have a collar on. If you happen to see him please drop an email to JASmith2737@aol.com

Sat Jun 4 Montpelier Hills Community Yard Sale

2011-05-16T21:12:00.009-04:00

Saturday, June 4, 2011
No Rain Date

Montpelier Elementary School
9200 Muirkirk Road
Laurel, MD (MAP)
Parking Lot

8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
SET UP: 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM
Yard Sale Notice in Laurel Gazette
Email for more information: mhyardsale@gmail.com

Police District VI COPS Safety Tips

2011-02-23T12:00:00.002-05:00

Click: Police District VI COPS Safety Tips

How to Avoid Theft From Your Car

2010-12-31T11:43:00.003-05:00

How to Avoid Theft From Your Car

How to Appeal Your Property Taxes - It's easy

2010-12-23T19:42:00.003-05:00

How to Appeal Your Property Taxes - It's easy

Oct 16 Montpelier Hills Annual Fall Cleanup Event

2010-10-04T21:17:00.001-04:00

Click image to enlarge or pring

Newly Elected Montpelier Hills HOA Board

2010-06-16T13:24:00.001-04:00

Here's the newly elected Montpelier Hills HOA Board and MHHA contact information.

Sat May 1 Earth Day Montpelier Hills Cleanup

2010-04-23T21:16:00.008-04:00

Click image to enlarge or print

Any updates will be emailed to mh-interact and
added to this post.

Thanks to Kim and the Montpelier Hills Recreation Association for organizing this event.

Tue Mar 16 7 pm PG Co. Councilman Dernoga at MHHA Monthly Meeting

2010-03-14T15:30:00.003-04:00

This Tuesday, March 16, at 7 pm, Prince George's County Councilman Tom Dernoga will visit the Montpelier Hills Homeowners Association monthly meeting at Montpelier Elementary School (map).

Come and ask Councilman Dernoga questions about anything.

Thu Mar 4 1 pm Fire Safety Talk at Police Coffee with Seniors and Other Area Residents

2010-02-26T18:19:00.000-05:00

Thu Mar 4 1 pm Fire Safety Talk at Police Coffee with Seniors and Other Area Residents

Feb 15 Trash & Recycle Pick Up

2010-02-14T19:12:00.001-05:00

According to a February 12 Prince George's County Press Release, recycling and trash collection, will operate on your street's regular schedule on Monday, February 15, 2010

Snow Update From Councilman Tom Dernoga Feb 14 10:30 AM (#7)

2010-02-14T13:13:00.000-05:00

Snow Update From Councilman Tom Dernoga

Feb 14 10:30 AM (#7)

From District 1 County Councilman Tom Dernoga

Snow Update From Councilman Tom Dernoga Feb 13 9:30 AM

2010-02-13T10:31:00.002-05:00

Snow Update From Councilman Tom Dernoga
Feb 13 9:30 AM Very Detailed, Community by Community

Remove Snow Around Mailboxes & Hydrants

2010-02-11T16:47:00.004-05:00

As we all struggle to get back to normal ... consider removing snow from around mailboxes and fire hydrants.

Feb 11 Abandoned & Illegal Parked Vehicles Will Be Ticketed & Towed Effective Immediately

2010-02-11T16:29:00.001-05:00

Feb 11 Abandoned & Illegal Parked Vehicles Will Be Ticketed & Towed Effective Immediately

Prince George's County DPW&T Press Release forwarded from Councilman Dernoga

Snow Update From Councilman Tom Dernoga Feb 11 10:15 AM

2010-02-11T11:11:00.001-05:00

Feb 11 10:15 AM -- Snow Update From PG County Councilman Tom Dernoga

PG County Snow and Ice Control FAQFind If Your Street is County-Maintained Get A PG County Street Plowed

2010-02-10T20:05:00.003-05:00

PG County Snow and Ice Control FAQ

Find If Your Street is County-Maintained

Get A PG County Street Plowed

Feb 8 Snow & Trash Update

2010-02-09T10:38:00.000-05:00

PG County Winter Weather Advisory

2010-02-07T09:22:00.001-05:00

PG County Winter Weather Advisory

PLEASE FORWARD - Last Call for Emails OR Attendance for Feb 3 Liquor Board Hearing Regarding Rio bar

2010-02-02T12:46:00.001-05:00

If you are reading this message
You are part of the solution -- Thanks !

FULL DETAILS

Please consider using the Email Icon below
To Forward this post to everyone you know who may be interested i
n an opportunity to express their own views directly to the Liquor Board

Feb 17 South Laurel Town Hall Meeting With County Council Chairman Tom Dernoga

2010-02-02T12:44:00.002-05:00

Feb 17 South Laurel Town Hall Meeting
With County Council Chairman Tom Dernoga

Montpelier Mansion & Montpelier Arts Center Black History Exhibits & Jazz/Folk/Blues Concerts

2010-01-25T18:25:00.002-05:00

Montpelier Mansion & Montpelier Arts Center
Black History Exhibits & Jazz/Folk/Blues Concerts

Discount concert series tickets

Rio Restaurant & Lounge Hearing Now Feb 3 - Petitions / Emails / FAX Letters

2010-01-15T10:11:00.001-05:00

Rio Restaurant & Lounge Hearing Now Feb 3 - Petitions / Emails / FAX Letters

Safe & Reliable Haiti Earthquake Donation Lists

2010-01-15T10:04:00.000-05:00

Safe & Reliable Haiti Earthquake Donation Lists

Urgent - Rio Restaurant & Lounge Hearing Jan 13 / Petitions / Emails / FAX Letters

2010-01-04T10:53:00.000-05:00

Urgent - Rio Restaurant & Lounge Hearing Jan 13 / Petitions / Emails / FAX Letters

Prince George’s County Goes Into "Snow Mode"

2009-12-20T12:05:00.004-05:00

Prince George’s County Goes Into "Snow Mode"

Sat Nov 14 Free E-Cycling and Document Shredding Event 8 am - 1 pm

2009-11-06T11:00:00.000-05:00

Sat Nov 14 Free E-Cycling and Document Shredding Event 8 am - 1 pm

Muirkirk Rd Water Main Break Nov 5 // Road Repairs // Street Lights

2009-11-05T15:47:00.003-05:00

Muirkirk Rd Water Main Break Nov 5, 2009

Jun 13 MH Community Yard Sale 8:30 am to Noon

2009-05-20T16:22:00.001-04:00

The Montpelier Hills Community Yard Sale has been set for Saturday, June 13th, from 8:30a.m. - Noon. Post cards will be mailed to residents, an email will be sent to the MH-Interact@yahoogroups.com and advertisements will be placed in the Laurel Leader and Laurel Gazette.

For those who wish to participate, please send your name, home address and contact number to mhyardsale@gmail.com. If anyone is interested in volunteering on June 13^th to help direct traffic to houses that are participating or installing and uninstalling "yard sale" signs throughout the neighborhood, please send your response to mhyardsale@gmail.com.

Items for sale can be placed in your garage, driveway and front yard. If you would like to submit a photograph of items being sold, or need to have a photo taken, let us know and we will do our best to add the photographs to the list of houses that are participating in this event in the Internet email.

- Montpelier Hills Recreation Association Board

Montpelier ES Closed for Flu Until at Least May 18

2009-05-01T18:23:00.002-04:00

Montpelier ES Closed for Flu Until at Least May 18
Click this link for updates

Apr 21 Annual Meeting & Board Elections

2009-04-18T00:44:00.000-04:00

Sat April 25 Huge Yard Sale Montpelier Hills

2009-04-17T15:25:00.005-04:00

Sat April 25 Huge Yard Sale Montpelier Hills

Opposing Sweet Moon Grille BAR in Crystal Plaza

2009-02-14T14:20:00.000-05:00

HERE WE GO AGAIN !!!

Please read Opposing Sweet Moon Grille BAR in Crystal Plaza

Please watch that article for timely updates.

Jan 21 Leaf Collection Tuscany, Hermosa, But Not Apache Tears?

2009-01-16T15:39:00.006-05:00

This sign appeared today on Tuscany at Muirkirk. I called DPW&T Customer Service and they said that vacuum leaf collection is scheduled in the Montpelier Hills "subdivision" on or about Wednesday January 21 for county roads Tuscany and Hermosa, but not for county road Apache Tears because, they said, Apache Tears is not listed as as part of the Montpelier Hills subdivision as they have it -- something about Apache Tears being on the other side of Muirkirk. Hmmm.

At the web site, they list the vacuum leaf pickup schedule only by community -- not by individual streets. And even there, Montpelier Hills is not listed explicitly -- perhaps falling under "Laurel" or "Northern Prince George's County".

In any case, only county roads are scheduled, not private streets.

That's all i know.

Click image to enlarge it.

Police to Cite Cars Running Unattended

2008-12-10T08:43:00.002-05:00

Police to Cite Cars Running Unattended

Oct 16 - Super Grand Mart - Grand Opening

2008-10-13T21:28:00.006-04:00

Oct 16 - Super Grand Mart - Grand Opening

Safe Shopper Tips

2008-10-12T17:18:00.003-04:00

Safe Shopper Tips

Oct 16 - Safe Shopper Event - Crystal Plaza

2008-10-10T17:39:00.005-04:00

Please read this article at South Laurel News & Views

Montpelier Arts Center Events, Classes, Activities

2008-08-22T13:58:00.000-04:00

Montpelier Arts Center - Fall Events, Classes, Activities
A permanent link to the most current information on the MAC web site is at Montpelier Arts Center in the Montpelier Hills Area Info section of this Montpelier Hills News website.

Aug 21 WSSC Water Line Break on Muirkirk

2008-08-21T13:34:00.028-04:00

Click photo to enlarge it.

UPDATE: Aug 22, 6:30 p.m.
Muirkirk is now open, with no side roads blocked. Water pressure seems to be back up to about where it was before the break.

Click photo to enlarge it.

UPDATE: Aug 22, 11 a.m.
By 11 am the water main had been repaired and crews were preparing the road for resurfacing. Westbound traffic on Muirkirk is now blocked before Mt. Pleasant Dr., forcing a U-turn at Orvis Way to return eastbound on Muirkirk. WSSC said that Monptelier Elementary School (not in session) lost water only temporarily, but there were no other known breaks in water service to surrouonding residents. WSSC said no special water quality precautions are needed. Fairlane Pl noticed slightly lower water pressure, but our pressure has always been on the high side, so the repair may have brought the pressure more toward normal, which may be a good thing.

UPDATE: Aug 21, 9 p.m.
The WSSC web site now shows a Service Advisory: Work order 8221434, 08/21/2008, Repair Damaged Water Main, 12100 Mt. Pleasant Dr., Laurel, Pipe Size 20 inches. There is no Press Release about it on the WSSC web site.

=========

UPDATE: Aug 21, 4 p.m.
No WSSC Service Advisory is on their web site at this time. Water is still flowing as efforts to shut it off continue. Eastbound Muirkirk traffic is blocked somewhere west of Mt. Pleasant Rd. Westbound Muirkirk traffic is being detoured onto Mt. Pleasant Dr (though access to Mt. Pleasant from westbound Muirkirk may soon be blocked). Cars on Mt. Pleasant Dr are blocked from entering Muirkirk. There is inferrably a 9-foot deep sink hole under eastbound Muirkirk at Mt. Pleasant, evidenced by a two-foot sag in the street there. The photo (click it to enlarge) is at Orvis Way & Muirkirk looking toward Mt. Pleasant Dr. The entrance to Orvis Way does not appear damaged -- just collecting silt from the water coming from the Mt. Pleasant intersection. (map)

=========

Aug 21, 2 p.m.:

There was a waterline break on Muirkirk Road, this morning, Aug 21, 2008. Water is surfacing in the eastbound lane of Muirkirk, between Orvis Way and Mt. Pleasant Dr. (map) near the area of the weeks-long ongoing roadside construction near the electric power station west of Tuscany.

At this time the full scope of this problem is not known, within or possibly beyond Montpelier Hills.

Around 12:45 p.m. two WSSC employees shut off water valves in the middle of Muirkirk Road in front of the Montpelier Elementary School.

Checking with the school (which begins classes next Monday, Aug 25) -- they did not notice any water problems (yet). At that time residents on Tuscany and Fairlane also seem unaffected (so far).

Around 1:45 p.m. WSSC said the situation continues to be assessed and more shutdowns may be expected. WSSC said that a public advisory will be issued soon, IF the break affects more than 100 people or critical facilities.

Watch the WSSC Service Advisories web page for that advisory (*), which may also be carried in the media, depending on the number of nearby affected homes and facilities. (*) That page is apparently only a map of advisory locations. Watch the main WSSC web Site for Advisories issued as Press Releases.

Pending any possible official WSSC advisory, residents may consider taking interim precautions regarding water supply and water quality.

Watch this article for updates.

The WSSC Service Advisories web link and main WSSC web site are now on the Montpelier Hills News blog (under MH Community Information) and South Laurel News & Views blog (under Regional).

Car Hits MH Gazebo at Hermosa & Muirkirk

2008-08-21T13:26:00.006-04:00

About 5:30 a.m. Sunday, Aug 17, 2008 a vehicle left Muirkirk Rd and struck one of the brick pillars of the Montplier Hills gazebo at Hermosa. The driver told two passing MH residents, who stopped to assist, that she was not injured. The gazebo is now under repair.

Free Tornado/Severe WX Cell & Email Alerts

2008-05-31T13:54:00.007-04:00

Free Tornado/Severe Weather Alerts by Cell Phone Text Message or Email

The alert service is free. The cost of delivering cell phone text messages depends on your cellphone billing plan.

Other alert services by email, telephone voice, cellphone text or computer screen icon -- are also listed at that web page, some are free and some are paid

MD State Hope Hotline Prevents Foreclosures

2008-05-14T23:12:00.002-04:00

Maryland State Counseling, Refinance, Loan Programs
to avoid mortgage default and foreclosure

1-877-462-7555
www.mdhope.org

Apr 15 Montpelier Hills HOA & Rec Annual Meeting

2008-04-11T14:51:00.003-04:00

!!! ANNUAL MEETING REMINDER!!!

Dear Montpelier Hills Homeowner, This note is to remind you of the Annual Meeting of the Montpelier Hills Homeowners and Recreation Associations. The purpose of this meeting is to elect homeowners to serve on the Boards of Directors. Meeting details are provided below:

DATE: Tuesday, April 15, 2008

TIME: 7:00- 9:00 p.m.

PLACE: Montpelier Elementary School
9200 Muirkirk Rd
(MAP)

Nominations will be accepted from the floor on the evening of the meeting.

All homeowners with the time an interest should seriously consider running for a position on the Board of Directors.

Whether or not you are interested in serving as a Board member, your attendance at the meeting is important so that the quorum requirement can be met to hold the election of officers who will voluntarily administer services for our Montpelier Hills Community for the coming year.

You must be current in your payments to be eligible to vote.

We look forward to seeing you on Tuesday, April 15th

Police District 6 Adds Email Tip Line

2008-02-22T14:48:00.002-05:00

Please read this article at Police District VI Adds Email Tip Line

New Police District 6 Confidential Phone Tip Line

2007-11-25T14:11:00.002-05:00

Please read this article at New Police District 6 Confidential Phone Tip Line

Autumn in Montpelier Hills 2007

2007-11-21T22:11:00.001-05:00

South end of Apache Tears Circle near Muirkirk Road.

Sep 18 7 pm MH HoA Community Meet with Police

2007-09-17T09:20:00.000-04:00

Please Come

Special Montpelier Hills HoA Community Meeting

Montpelier Elementary School
Tuesday September 18 7 PM

* Discussion with local Police District 6 Commander about recent Montpelier Hills crime and crime prevention

* Vote on important MH HoA By-Laws change

Please Come

Town Center Walk With Police Chief & Commander

2007-08-17T00:48:00.000-04:00

Community Walk and Talk
With Prince George's County
Chief of Police Melvin High
and
District 6 Commander Maj. Gary Cunningham

Wed, August 22
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm

Meet at Town Center Route 197 & Contee Rd for a walk through nearby neighborhoods (MAP)

You are invited to join neighbors in a walk and talk with Prince George's County Police Chief Chief Melvin High and Laurel-Beltsville Police District 6 Commander Maj. Gary Cunningham along with other Prince George's County officials and agency representatives.

“Our goal is to heighten awareness and show a partnership of commitment. We need the help of the community and this is a great way to personally meet members of the community to address their concerns,” -- Chief High.

For more information, call the Prince George’s County Police Department’s Press Information Office at (301) 772-4710.

Montpelier Hills Denizen May 20, 2007

2007-05-20T14:00:00.001-04:00

May 19 Montpelier Hills Community Yard Sale

2007-05-14T17:36:00.000-04:00

Sat May 19 8:30 am - NOON

20070519T213000/20070520T010000

Muirkirk Rd & Hermosa Dr., Laurel, MD map

vjugumpm3s5baeji4bpbhata4g@group.calendar.google.com

The Montpelier Hills Community Yard Sale has been set for this Saturday, May 19th from 8:30 a.m - Noon. Post cards have been mailed to residents and advertisements have been placed in the Laurel Leader and Laurel Gazette.

There will be a central Community Yard Sale located at Muirkirk Rd and Hermosa Dr. (near the Gazebo and Tennis Courts), and residents will be hosting yard sales at their own homes in Montpelier Hills (along Apache Tears Circle, Tuscany Drive and Hermosa Drive and connecting streets -- see map).

PG Police Open House April 24

2007-04-20T16:19:00.000-04:00

See PG Police Open House April 24

Prevent Air Bag Thefts -- Alert from Laurel

2007-03-29T16:57:00.000-04:00

southlaurel.blogspot.com/2007/03/prevent-air-bag-thefts-alert-from.html

Mar 14 Liquor Board Hearings Recap

2007-03-15T03:25:00.000-04:00

J's Sports Cafe Mar 14 Liquor Hearing Recap

Also at that March 14 Hearing
Sunrise Sports Bar Mar 14 Liquor Hearing Recap

See those articles for information about the Liquor License Renewal Protest Hearings scheduled for May 2, at which citizens may give statements. More details later about the May 2 hearings.

Please Attend J's Cafe Show Cause Hearing -- Wed Mar 14 7 pm

2007-03-12T18:53:00.001-04:00

Please attend the P.G. Liquor Board "Show Cause" Hearing on Wednesday, March 14, 7 pm to clearly demonstrate our community's grave concern to stop the shooting murders at nearby J's Sports Cafe.

For a map and directions to the Hearing location, please see http://tinyurl.com/2z3g2f

You need not testify -- your simple presence in large numbers will say volumes.

That night there will also be a show cause hearing for the Jan 28 shooting at Sunrise Restaurant on Rhode Island Ave in Beltsville. Your attendance will show solidarity with Beltsville citizens trying to stop the same kind of shooting murders at bars in their community.

Please Sign J's Sports Cafe Petition Now

2007-02-22T16:47:00.000-05:00

UPDATE: March 7

March 7 PG Liquor Board Show Cause Hearings Postponed

The P.G. Liquor Board has postponed the Show Cause Hearings for the shootings at J's Sports Cafe and Sunrise Bar, due to expected dangerous icing conditions this evening (March 7).

The new date is March 14, 7 pm.

For directions to the P.G. County services building on March 14, see
http://tinyurl.com/2fk694

Today and on March 14, check the Liquor Board phone number for possible recorded announcements about the status of Hearings (301) 699-2770.

Update: March 1

Liquor Board March 7 Public Hearing Agenda

The Montpelier Hills community needs your signature on a petition to revoke the liquor license at J's Sports Cafe (Crystal Plaza Rt 197 & Muirkirk Rd) because there have been 3 shooting murders there in the past 2 years due to violent crowds attracted by the Cafe.

There is a notice on your cluster mailbox with the address of the home where you can sign the petition. In most cases the petitions are in an envelope taped to that home's door or storm door. Just sign one of the petitions and put it back. Please sign an empty petition page only if there is no petition page with some signatures already on it -- we are trying to ensure that each page is full.

You must be a currently registered voter in Prince George's county to sign the petition -- because that is how the Liquor Board verifies the signatures as P.G. County residents.

Please print legibly so your name and address will be verified.

There will already be a "show cause" hearing at the Liquor Board on March 7 at 7 pm to review the most recent January 28 shooting murder and other violations at J's Sports Cafe. Watch this site for another message with details about that meeting.

BUT right now, these petitions are still needed ASAP, in the next few days.

Regardless of the outcome of the March 7 hearing, the Liquor Board requires these petitions before its regulations will allow it to schedule a formal hearing process specifically to consider revoking the liquor license at J's Sports Cafe.

So, please come out in the cold and wind and sign a petition on your street Today.

There is comprehensive information about what's been happening at "J's Sports Cafe"
on the MH NEWS web site in the side menu "Local News & Info"
at J's Sports Cafe 3d Shooting Death***

Thanks

Citizens Mitigate Dangerous Excavation on Muirkirk

2007-01-15T00:07:00.000-05:00

Read Citizens Mitigate Dangerous Excavation on Muirkirk
on the South Laurel News & Views Blog.

Major Transformation of Laurel Mall?

2006-12-15T19:57:00.000-05:00

Please see this article on the South Laurel News & Views blog.

P.G. Board of Education Meetings TV Schedule

2006-12-08T12:50:00.000-05:00

Please read this item on the South Laurel News & Views blog.

Nov 7 Voter Guides PG County, State, & Federal Elections

2006-11-02T13:08:00.000-05:00

For your convenience, i've posted links to Voter Guides for the Nov 7 General Elections for PG County, State, & Federal offices, by the PG Gazette, Laurel Leader and Washington Post.

These are not endorsement lists -- just lists of candidates for each office, candidate descriptions and explanations of ballot issues.

Go to the South Laurel News & Views web site and then click on "News" in "Local Candidates (News)" in the sidebar menu.

Laurel City Halloween Activities for Kids

2006-10-18T20:57:00.000-04:00

Read on South Laurel News & Views

Citizen Input Sought for County Master Plans

2006-10-07T09:14:00.000-04:00

This is your opportunity to contribute your ideas to Prince George's County planning for the next 10 years and beyond for for public safety (police, fire, emergency medical), schools, parks, transportation, etc. Please take the enclosed survey.

In the next few weeks you will see press releases and articles in the newspapers about the Subregion I Master Plan study that is currently being conducted for our area of Prince George's county. A series of public Living Area Workshops will involve county residents directly in updating the county's master plans.

The "Living Areas Workshop" for our area (East of Route 1) is:

Thursday, Oct 19, 2006, 6:30 – 9:00 PM
Corporate Offices of Hope Christian Church
6251 Ammendale Road
Beltsville, MD 20705

Please fill out this survey, and return it by email to
kierre.mccune@ppd.mncppc.org

ICC Impact on Muirkirk RD & RT 197 Becoming Clearer

2006-09-26T21:28:00.000-04:00

Washington Post article and map of affected Muirkirk area.
Read at SLN&V

New Emergency Warning System Coming to Laurel

2006-09-25T08:53:00.000-04:00

Laurel City Press Release - Sep 25, 2006

Mayor Craig A. Moe is pleased to inform the residents of Laurel that the City has entered into a contract with Code RED to purchase a state of the art Emergency Warning System.

The Code RED Emergency Notification System is an extremely fast communication service available for mass Emergency Notifications. Code RED employs a one-of-a-kind Internet mapping capability for geographic targeting of calls, coupled with a high speed telephone calling system capable of delivering customized pre-recorded emergency messages directly to homes and businesses, live individuals and answering machines, at the rate of up to 60,000 calls per hour.

Mayor Craig Moe envisions using Code Red to notify residents and businesses during natural and man-made disasters, as well as warn residents and businesses in Laurel as to when flooding is possible.

Mayor Craig Moe is pleased that this new technology is now available to help keep the residents and businesses of Laurel informed and encourages everyone interested to visit www.coderedweb.com and check out their capabilities. If you have any questions, please call Emergency Operations Director, Marty Flemion, at 301-725-5300 ext. 203.

Road Closure: Sep 13 Main Street & Lafayette Under Railroad Bridge

2006-09-11T16:58:00.000-04:00

Since this is the way many of us in Montpelier Hills enter Main St. Laurel ...
Click this link to read this item on the South Laurel News & Views Blog

School Board Candidates on Cable Channel 76

2006-08-02T17:06:00.000-04:00

Schedule of School Board candidate interviews on COMCAST Channel 76.
Please read this item at this link on the South Laurel News & Views blog.

Maryland Sales Tax Holiday: August 23-27, 2006

2006-08-01T20:36:00.000-04:00

From August 23 through August 27, 2006, qualifying clothing and footwear sold in Maryland and priced at $100 or less will be exempt from Maryland's 5 percent sales and use tax.

The five-day Sales Tax Holiday event gives Maryland shoppers a unique, money-saving incentive to shop in state for back-to-school, summer clearance, fall fashion, and other purchases, while helping Maryland merchants compete with retail markets in neighboring states.

Certain clothing and footwear designed to be worn on or about the human body will be eligible for the sales tax exemption. Qualifying apparel include belts, coats, jackets, pants, shoes, socks and sweaters. Special clothing or footwear designed primarily for protective use and not for normal wear, such as football pads, do not qualify. In addition, accessory items such as handbags, jewelry, ties, and umbrellas do not qualify and remain taxable.

Each qualifying article of clothing or footwear selling for $100 or less will be exempt, regardless of how many items are sold at the same time. For example, two $60 sweaters sold at the same time are both exempt, even though the total purchase price is more than $100.

Items that cost more than $100 will be taxable, even if they would otherwise be eligible. The first $100 of a more expensive item is not tax-free. If the item costs $110, sales tax is due on the entire $110.

For more information about the Sales Tax Holiday, click on the links below or call 410-260-7980 from Central Maryland or 1-800-MD TAXES from elsewhere in Maryland, Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Frequently Asked Questions

Exempt Sales

Taxable Sales

Special Sale Situations

Discounts, Coupons and Rebates

Exchanges, Layaways and Rain Checks

Mail, Telephone, E-mail, Internet and Custom Orders

Shipping and Handling Charges

Returned Merchandise

Refunds

Documenting Exempt Sales

List of Exempt and Taxable Purchases

Sales and Use Tax Bulletin 6-02: Sales Tax Holiday

PowerPoint Overview - Sales Tax Holiday

From Comptroller of Maryland

How the School Board Election Will Work

2006-07-31T04:57:00.000-04:00

Please read this item on the South Laurel News & Views blog.

Link to How the School Board Election Will Work

National Night Out Tuesday Aug 1

2006-07-31T03:45:00.000-04:00

23rd Annual National Night Out

On Tuesday, August 1, 2006, the District VI Police Station is inviting neighborhoods throughout Beltsville, Montpelier Hills and Laurel to join forces with thousands of communities nationwide for the 23rd Annual National Night Out. National Night Out brings our community together to:

• Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness
• Generate support and participation in local anticrime efforts
• Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships.

Please join us for this event and cookout from 6pm to 8pm at District VI located at 4321 Sellman Rd in Beltsville. There will be a variety of specialty units such as a K-9 Unit, Helicopter Unit, Fire Department Bomb Robot Unit, Motorcycle and Bicycle Displays, Patrol Vehicle Display and Maryland Park Police Mounted Unit. This will be a night for all communities to stand together to promote awareness, safety and neighborhood unity.

Town Center Face Lift

2006-07-30T17:53:00.000-04:00

According to a gaggle of project managers i ran into on the sidewalk in front of the Saphire Indian resturaunt a few days ago
the stores in the Town Center strip mall on Route 197 at Contee Rd. are about to get a "face lift". The encounter was brief, but i assume they meant that they are going to replace or repaint the current blue mansard-style roofs.

Vansville Heights Community Day, July 16

2006-07-14T20:44:00.000-04:00

Don't miss the Vansville Heights annual Community Day festival, Sunday, July 16 from 1 pm to 5 pm. At nearby Vansville Park, on Old Baltimore Pike, 1/2 mile south of Muirkirk Rd.

Bottom Dollar Update July 8, 2006

2006-07-08T12:00:00.000-04:00

Please read this article at the South Laurel News and Views Blog.

Rite Aid Open / Camerons Seafood Coming

2006-07-07T17:27:00.000-04:00

Please read this article on the South Laurel News & Views blog.

FREE "Club" Wheel Locks Deter Theft of Cars and Air Bags

2006-07-06T13:46:00.000-04:00

Please read this article at the South Laurel News & View blog.

Town House Plan Agreed June 15, 2006 - Update

2006-06-17T18:58:00.000-04:00

From: MH HOA & Rec Boards
Dear Montpelier Hills (MH) Homeowners:

So much as happened in the last few days. Not the least of which is the terrific response we received from all of you on the recent petition about the issues that had not been resolved with Berman Enterprises on the 211 townhouse (TH) plan.

Your Homeowners Association (HOA) and Recreation Association (Rec) Boards are grateful for your guidance and support throughout this process. You kept us energized, reminded us of why we’re doing this, and provided the back up we needed to resolve the remaining issues with Berman Enterprises.

That’s right – we reached an agreement on the 211 TH plan.

The PG Planning Board approved the plan with conditions.

Here’s how the remaining issues were resolved:

1) Amenities:

Berman Enterprises’amenity package now includes:

The amenities shown on the Specific Design Plan (SDP) plan include: picnic tables/areas, connecting walking trails, benches/sitting areas, tot lots, a child-size basketball court in one court, and trash cans. On the MH Rec land, a multi-purpose court, picnic shelter with sitting area, playground, and parking. These amenities are valued at $325,000.

$400,000 that will be paid on a fixed schedule into an escrow account to serve as seed money for a recreational capital improvement to Montpelier Elementary School (e.g., sports building or gymnasium). MH residents would be able to sign up to use this space for their own use. The MH HOA and Rec Boards have approval of the project design or the funds won’t be released to the county. If the county does not appropriate the rest of the funds needed for this project in two years or construction has not begun on the project within four
years, the money will return to MH for a recreational benefit approved
by both Boards in consultation with the community. These additional monies were obtained without having to add more THs.

Over $60,000 to reimburse the community for current and future legal fees associated with this second and final phase of MH development.

2) Inclusion of Parcel J - MH Rec Land - in the SDP:

The Rec Board has granted permission to include Parcel J in the SDP so the amenities on that
parcel can be completed. Berman Enterprises will not encumber the property with a tree conservation easement.

3) Sidewalks:

Sidewalks will be provided throughout the new TH courts.

4) Landscaping-Offsite Mitigation:

Berman Enterprises will add trees on land owned by the HOA in Courts 1 and 6 to make the buffers denser between the phase one and [phase] two developments in these courts. The SDP contains information on the retaining walls which will include anti-graffiti coating.

5) Community Consistency in Phases One and Two:

The County Staff recommendations and resolution from the County Planning Board contain conditions to assure that the aesthetics, quality and value of the community be maintained as a whole. Signage, entry walls, building materials, architecture style, and other features will create a consistent and cohesive aesthetic between the phases.

Look at how far we’ve come.

Berman Enterprises’ original plan over a year and a half ago had 267 townhouses that were
20 feet wide in a tight layout with many back to back, more pavement than green space and wooded areas, and no specific amenities. We now have a 211 TH plan of 24-foot wide THs that preserves green space and buffers, addresses parking with two-car garages and guest parking, creates a community witha consistent layout and features between the phases, provides repayment of attorneys fees, and includes over $725,000 in recreational amenities and potential capital improvements to Montpelier Elementary School.

NEXT STEPS – We still have several things to do.

Berman Enterprises still needs to prove that their underground stormwater management plan is feasible. Before grading for this system, they need to enter into a Joint Multi-use Stormwater Management System Maintenance Agreement with the county Department of Public Works and Transportation and the MD National Capital Park & Planning Commission (MNCPPC) Department of Parks and Recreation for the construction, operation and maintenance of that underground system. We plan to meet with Department of Environmental Resources to review the detail design plans when they are ready, as well as review the draft maintenance agreement.

We will need to work with Councilman Dernoga and other county and school officials to develop plans and appropriate funds for the recreational capital improvement to
Montpelier Elementary School.

We will need to monitor the construction plans to ensure the building adheres to the SDP. The MH Boards and MHIWG will monitor everything the Bermans do in this community to ensure compliance with approved plans until this second and final phase of our community is
built. Further, we have recourse if it is clear the Bermans and their builders try to deviate
from the approved plans.

Your help is still needed.

We need MH residents to join the MHIWG to help us carry out these next steps.

Email Gary Stone at garolds@yahoo.com to be added to the MHIWG email list
(owners/residents only)

Visit the MH NEWS web site and click New Town Houses in MH
for updated information.

Again, we thank you for your support; you make us proud to represent MH.

Signed,

Judy Gretsch, Montpelier Hills HoA Secretary

Club Amazon Closes Permanently

2006-06-15T15:37:00.000-04:00

This June 15, 2006 Laurel Leader article about the permanent closure of Club Amazon did not get into the June 15th print edition.

See other MH NEWS articles about Club Amazon.
See local newspaper articles about Club Amazon.
See other Noteworthy Local News

Deal Reached with Town House Developer

2006-06-15T07:46:00.000-04:00

MH RESIDENTS:

Our continued vigilance and negotiations have paid off - a deal has been reached with Berman Enterprises, Prince George's County Councilman Dernoga, and the MH HOA and Rec Boards to resolve the remaining issues with the 211 townhouse Specific Design Plan (SDP). An amenities package has been negotiated, sidewalks will be included, off-site mitigation will occur, and design features will ensure a consistent community character.

Representatives from the Boards are attending the Planning Board hearing to voice our support for the SDP with the conditions that address our issues. A draft of those conditions is included in the County Staff Report, which is available at http://www.mncppc.org/pgco/planning/pdf/06-15-6/SDP-0510.pdf
The conditions start on page 18 under the header RECOMMENDATION. Please note that previous revisions of the drawings already address some of these conditions. The final conditions will be available after the hearing.

While you are welcome to attend the hearing, as is your right as a citizen, your Boards no longer need your attendance to show opposition to the plan.

Very quickly after the hearing, we'll provide more details on the resolution of the remaining issues, the outcome of the hearing, the final conditions, and our next steps.

Yes - there will be next steps so we still need MH residents to join the MHIWG to help us moving forward. Email Gary Stone at garolds@yahoo.com to be added to the [MH Residents Only] email list for meeting announcements. Keep visiting the MH Community Web site at http://mhnews.bloqspot.com for updates [see New Town Houses in MH ].

Thank you for your support through this process.

Judy Gretsch MH HOA Secretary

How You Can Help The MH Board Oppose The New Town House Plan Until Major Issues Are Resolved With The Developer

2006-06-05T22:35:00.000-04:00

1) IF POSSIBLE, ATTEND THE PUBLIC HEARING ON THURSDAY, JUNE 15

Location: 1st Floor Hearing Room
County Administration Building
14741 Governor Oden Bowie Drive
Upper Marlboro, Maryland

Time: 9:00 am *
* there are many other items on the planning board’s agenda,
so be advised the MH TH plan may be heard anytime 9 am to 5 pm
We will let you know if the time for MH can be bracketed more precisely.

For a Ride to the Hearing :
email jcgretsch@aol.com or call 301- 343 - 0119

Directions:

Take 495 to Route 4 south
Exit onto Water St. (Not marked "Water St.") First exit after Old Crain Hwy
North/Left on Water street Park free at Equestrian Center
and take shuttle bus
OR
Continue North on Water St.
Right/East onto Governor Oden Bowie Drive
And park for $.75/hour at meters near lake and County Administration Building
Meters are maximum 1-hour, 2-hours, 3-hours or 4-hours.

2) SIGN the Montpelier Hills PETITION -- EVEN IF YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THE HEARING

Community working group members have begun taking petitions door-to-door throughout Montpelier Hills, listing the major unresolved issues with the developers.
The petitions are an opportunity for MH homeowners to voice their opinion to the County Planning Board and support the Board position for the County to withhold approval of the Town House Plan until major issues are resolved with the developers.

If you have not signed a petition already, you can download and sign this MH Residents Petition

Petitions can be returned to the following Board/MHIWGmembers -- just drop them off -- No later than June 14.

Kathy Williams 11626 Tuscany Drive
Gary Stone 9202 Fairlane Place
Floyd Hughes 12210 Blue Moon Court
Ella Demby 12105 Apache Tears Circle
LaVerne Anthony 9206 Ispahan Loop

3) Watch menu item "New Town Houses in MH" for updates

"Villas at Laurel" Town Homes in Rt 197 Bus Lot

2006-05-23T00:15:00.000-04:00

Please click here to read this article on my "South Laurel
News and Views" Blog, summarizing information Roz Johnson
of Applewalk HoA has recently made available about the new
"Villas at Laurel" $500K and up Townhouse community planned
on Route 197 at Briarcroft Lane (at the Metro Bus lot).

"No newspaper articles were found about "Villas at Laurel".

Club Amazon Update May 6, 2006

2006-05-06T15:45:00.000-04:00

This May 4 Gazette.net article about the May 3 Liquor Board Hearing for Club Amazon did not make it into this week's Laurel Gazette printed edition: Club Amazon to close temporarily, owners announce

After the May 3 Liquor Board hearing, the office of our District 1 County Councilman, Tom Dernoga, made inquiries with several relevant county departments regarding Club Amazon. Soon after that, the County Fire Marshall's office reportedly shut down Club Amazon effective May 5 apparently for continued violation of previous fire code citations.

At the May 3 Liquor Board hearing, Club Amazon owners had said they wanted to operate May 3, 4, 5, and 6 before voluntarily closing May 7 until June 14, the date of the next Liquor Board hearing. It appears that Club Amazon is now closed and will remain closed voluntarily or otherwise until June 14.

This poster (no longer on the GOGO website to which it was posted on April 5, 2006) appears to have advertised a LIVE music program at Club Amazon scheduled for May 12 by the GOGO band RARE ESSENCE which, if performed as advertised, would have apparently been in violation of The Amazon's current Liquor Board license restrictions against LIVE music.

Club Amazon Update May 5, 2006

2006-05-05T16:55:00.000-04:00

The P.G. County Liquor Board hearing on Wednesday, May 3, was attended by over 80 people opposing the continued operation of the Club Amazon on Route 1 near Contee Road. No one attended in support of Amazon, except the Amazon's owners, operators and legal council.

It turned out, that hearing was to determine whether there should be a full "show-cause" hearing at a later date -- now set for June 14.

The Club Amazon owner's liquor license has many restrictions. As understood, Club Amazon is permitted to operate only a "family-style" restaurant (No live music) with a maximum capacity of 175 people. Also, Club Amazon must actively prevent any loitering in the parking lot or in cars in the lot.

By the Club Amazon owner's and manager's own sworn testimony on May 3, they are not operating as a "family-style restaurant" -- they have no functional kitchen, they serve free snacks only with the purchase or alcoholic beverages, and they have had 250 people in the building at a time. Police officers who responded to the recent shooting in the Amazon parking lot testified that on that night there were enough cars in the lot for over 400 people attending Club Amazon -- no other nearby businesses were open. Officers reported there were no outside security video cameras as required by the liquor license and too few off-duty police officers working as security guards to prevent loitering and preserve order inside and outside the club.
Many public officials and elected representatives, including our District 1 County Councilman Tom Dernoga, District 4 County Councilman Doug Peters, Laurel Mayor Craig Moe, and State Delegate Barbara Frush, among others forcefully urged the Liquor Board to immediately revoke the Club Amazon's liquor license, in particular because of numerous current violations of the Amazon's liquor license restrictions.

The Liquor Board Chairman said there were two separate issues. The mode of operation (family-friendly restaurant) and safety. The mode of operation change requested by Club Amazon owners (apparently to provide live music) and whether past violations of the mode of operation merited revoking the liquor license, would be addressed at the full public evidentiary hearing and decision meeting of the Liquor Board on June 14, as required by law to provide all parties with legally required due process.

As to safety, the Liquor Board Chairman said that Liquor Board inspectors would make new inspections with particular attention to whether Amazon is in compliance with all of the safety requirements of their liquor license -- some of which they are apparently already violating. If such violations are found, Club Amazon can be shut down immediately until those safety violations are fixed, which could be for a matter or hours or a matter of days.
Montpelier Hills resident Gary Stone's testimony asked the Liquor Board to make maxium use of their safety enforcement powers to shutdown Club Amazon if any safety violations continue to be found.

The Amazon owner offered and the Liquor Board accepted, that Amazon would voluntarily close down from May 7 through June 14, the date of the next hearing. But Club Amazon's owner stated that they would operate May 3, 4, 5, and 6.

Friday, May 5 is Cinco de Mayo. Amazon plans to host a Cinco de Mayo celebration with disc jockeys playing music (not live music). This may create safety violations such as over capacity and loitering.
Police officers and Karen Coakley, President of the Beltsville Civic Association and a member of the Prince George's District 6 Police Commanders Citizens Advisory Council, testified that because Police District 6 continues to be chronically understaffed -- any altercations requiring response by District 6 police, will leave the remaining police officers spread too thinly across all of the rest of District 6. Paul McCullagh, Montpelier Community Association President, also testified.

The clear implication is that any disturbance at Amazon requiring police response, is not only a threat to the safety of people at the Club Amazon and nearby, but such problems at Amazon put the lives and safety of ALL residents throughout District 6 at risk by not getting the timely police protection and emergency services they need in an emergency during the time that police are diverted to Club Amazon.

The public is invited to attend and testify at the June 14 Hearing at 7:30 pm. No advance registration is required to attend or speak. If you don't speak, just come to stand up and be counted "for" or "against", as happened on May 3. Here's the address and directions:

P.G. County Liquor Board
County Services Building
5012 Rhode Island Avenue Room 204
Hyattsville, Maryland 20781
301-699-2770 (no need to call)

Enter the parking garage near Farragut St and Rhode Island Ave. Remember your parking space number and use the machine inside the parking garage lobby to pay the parking fee of $ .75 per hour in advance

Directions: Take Route 1 south (Baltimore Ave) and continue on RT 1 when it becomes Rhode Island Avenue in Hyattsville. Alternatively, to beat rush-hour traffic, consider taking Old Baltimore Pike (RT 201) south to Decatur Street (see map). Be prepared to wait for any trains crossing Decatur or Baltimore Ave at that time.

INTERACTIVE MAP

SHOOTING at Amazon Club / Liquor License Hearing Wednesday May 3d

2006-04-25T22:05:00.000-04:00

UPDATE May 1, 2006

You do not need to pre-register to speak at the May 3 Liquor Board hearing. Just come before 7 pm and sign up to speak.

Even if you don't wish to speak -- still come and STAND UP in support of speakers you agree with.

As reported earlier in MH NEWS, the new owners of the Club Amazon on Route 1 operated the Stardust club in Landover, which was closed by the County under community pressure after a long and frequent history of violence. Now the Club Amazon, with its own long and frequent history of violence and drugs, has been the scene of continued violence under the new operation of the former Stardust owners.

The Prince George's Liquor Board will hold an already once rescheduled hearing to consider revoking the new Amazon owner's liquor license, under heavy pressure from many county citizens and organizations.

Please consider this message sent out today from Karen Coakley, President of the Beltsville Citizens Association.
QUOTE:

This past weekend there was a shooting at Amazon in Laurel. The owners of Amazon have a hearing scheduled next Wednesday May 3rd at 7:00 p.m. before the Liquor Board.

I am asking [you] to attend this meeting & once again ask the Liquor Board to CLOSE THIS ESTABLISHMENT! REVOKE THEIR LIQUOR LICENSE!!!

Amazon is not just a [City of] Laurel problem. It is a Police District 6 problem because Amazon is covered by the County Police. Every time the County Police are called to Amazon it pulls them from other areas of District 6. I know you are all aware of the fact that District 6 is as usual understaffed.

For those of you who do not know the history of Amazon -- the new owners used to run the STARDUST in Landover. The establishment was the bane of the community for years, drugs shootings etc ..... and it took years to get their Liquor License REVOKED!

We ALL need to make our voices heard before the Liquor Board and our Elected officials. Senator Giannetti, Delegates Frush Menes & Moe.

If you cannot attend, please email a letter [to Karen Coakley karenmcoakley@verizon.net calling for the revocation of the Liquor License and I will take it with me [Karen Coakley]

Last but not least please spread the word !!!!!

Karen Coakley karenmcoakley@verizon.net]

END QUOTE

The Liquor Board will hold this hearing at 5012 Rhode Island Avenue, Hearing Room 200, Hyattsville, Maryland 20781.

Letters of testimony regarding the "May 3, 2006 Amazon Liquor License Hearing" can be mailed directly to:

Prince George's County Board of License Commissioners
ATTN: Liquor Board
5012 Rhode Island Avenue Room 204
Hyattsville, Maryland 20781
301-699-2770

I am continuing to save web links to news about the Amazon club at this address. Please send any good ones i've missed to garolds@yahoo.com

Gary Stone, MH News

APRIL 22 EARTH DAY IN MONTPELIER HILLS

2006-04-13T14:25:00.000-04:00

CANCELLED BY COUNTY DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER ON SATURDAY
NEW DATE PLANNED

Participating students will earn certified Community Service hours.

First Quarter P.G. Crime Down Significantly - Say Police

2006-04-13T14:00:00.000-04:00

Prince George's County Police
Press Release

April 12, 2006

Prince George’s County, Maryland…Chief Melvin C. High said crime is down significantly in the first quarter of 2006. Homicides, and other violent crimes have decreased significantly, and homicide case closures are at an all time high.

During the first three months of 2006, homicides are down 37.5 percent compared to the first quarter of 2005, or 25 homicides in 2006 versus 40 at the same time last year. Every violent crime category is down except assaults in the first quarter: Rapes are down 15.7 percent; commercial robberies are down 33.7 percent, residential robberies are down 28.6 percent; citizen robberies are down 7.3 percent; and carjacking is down 23.4 percent. Property crime is also down in every category.

“Everything happens in phases, and these results are the second phase for us. We are seeing results of groundwork we laid last year with tactical deployment, a focus on policing fundamentals and productivity, building the size of our force and strengthening our relationship with the community,” said Police Chief Melvin C. High. “I’m proud of the men and women of this Department, and I know that residents are proud of them, too.”

Chief Melvin High praised Assistant Chief Roberto Hylton, who heads the Patrol Services Bureau and the District Commanders who lead each of the county’s six Police Districts, along with the Special Operations Division (SOD), the Auto Crimes Task Force, and administrative duty members who have been redeployed to patrol activity.

High said the Patrol Services Bureau is the foundation of police departments
everywhere, and that the consistent and sustained work that Commanders and their officers have been doing everyday is the key component in the Department’s suppression and prevention strategy. “Officers on the street support the work of every other unit within the Department, and that leads to arrests and the closing of cases.”

Head of the Patrol Services Bureau, Assistant Police Chief Roberto Hylton said his troops are executing the fundamentals, and singled out traffic enforcement, field observations and gun and drug seizures as vital focal points for reducing crime. “Our strategy is fundamental policing. We’re using high visibility traffic enforcement, and field operations to protect residents and let criminals know that wherever they are, we intend to be, too.”

Hylton said that a solid addition of new officers made it possible to reincorporate beats into the Department’s Community Policing Model, a policing tradition that helps officers gain an acute familiarity with each community’s residents and businesses. The beat structure helps create trust between the Department and the community. Our new officers, well prepared at the academy, are gaining valuable on the street experience by working closely with more experienced officers. They’re ready and they’re helping us change the landscape on crime in the county.”

Hylton also credited citizens with helping to bring down Auto Theft and Property Crimes, with auto theft declining last year for the first time since 1999, and trending down another 18 percent so far this year. Hylton said, “Citizens responded to the education strategy that came out of the Department and the County’s Auto Theft and Vandalism Prevention Task Force. We appreciate their help.”

Chief High praised Support Services, which includes the Investigative Services Bureau, under which falls the Criminal Investigations Division (CID). He said the teamwork between Patrol and Support Services is showing in arrests and case closures. The official homicide closure rate this year is 84 percent versus 70 percent this time last year, and CID robbery closure rate is 43 percent versus 10 percent last year.

Colonel Darrin Palmer, Commander of the Strategic Management Bureau said the Department’s recruitment campaign had created a momentum to grow the force that was continuing into 2006. Palmer said the Department began the recruitment campaign in mid-year 2005 and got 3,540 applicants just in the second half of the year, with 1,019 applicants having applied so far this year. Colonel Palmer said, “The people we’ve accepted are the best out of those who applied. We’ll graduate 100 plus new officers from the current class, and we’ll begin a class of about 115 in July. Our role in the Department’s crime-fighting strategy is to get good people and prepare them to serve this community. We’re clear about that.”

On the matter of staying ahead of attrition, Palmer said a major recruiting strategy is a slow process that takes time, but the Department is ahead and he expects attrition to slow. “We put a strategy in place where there was none. Any notion that our recruitment and training strategy isn’t working is misguided.”

In closing, Chief High said “I am proud of the men and women of the Prince George’s County Police Department. As I told residents in the six community meetings that I held in our Districts, this Department has come back from a period of decline and disrepair, and at a time when crime was trying to put a stranglehold on this community. We were down, although never out.”

Chief High also said that input and support from citizens and residents on community safety matters has been a critical component to the Department’s success. “This community isn’t just talking about ridding itself of crime, it’s doing something about it and we’re going to continue to partner with them in as many ways as we can.”

###

See also, Laurel Gazette, Thursday, April 13, 2006: Homicides fall for first quarter of ’06, police say. Most other crimes are also lower than this time last year, chief reports

Tue Apr 18 MH Elections & Development Update

2006-04-12T11:39:00.000-04:00

Montpelier Hills
Annual Community Meeting & Elections
April 18, 2006 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Capitol College Auditorium
11301 Springfield Road, Laurel MD

Neighbors,

It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as your home owners association president for the last two years.

I INVITE YOU TO A VERY IMPORTANT MEETING ON APRIL 18TH.

We are at the critical point in the negotiations with the
Bermans who plan to develop the 32 acres of land they own
adjacent to our community. The Bermans have worked
cooperatively with me, the Boards, and the Montpelier Hills
Investigative Working Group for the past 18 months.
Together we have written, revised, and refined a development
plan that I fully support, and I ask you now to join the
Board at our annual meeting where we will discuss the
upcoming development of our community. Equally important,
we will elect new Boards who will have the responsibility to
carry the process through to completion.

At the MH NEWS web site select Plans for New Townhouses in MH to view the current and newly proposed Townhouse Plans dated April 13.

I urge all who can attend to come to next Tuesday’s meeting.
This may be the most important Board meeting at Montpelier
Hills in the 17 years that I have been a resident here. I
look forward to seeing you at Capitol College on April 18th.

Respectfully,
Brian Sutton President, MHHOA

Wed Mar 22 7 PM - Police Chief's Crime Report & Action Workshop

2006-03-07T19:46:00.000-05:00

Please Join

Prince George’s County Police Chief Melvin C. High

District 6 Commander Major Tom Connolly

and Police Department Staff

Wednesday, March 22, 2006

7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.

Martin Luther Middle School

4545 Ammendale Road

Beltsville, Maryland

A Report to the Community

on Crime & Action Workshop

Hosted by

The Prince George’s County Police Chief's

Citizen’s Advisory Council

and the District 6 Citizen’s Advisory Council

Your local elected officials have also been invited to attend

Senator John Giannetti

Delegates Barbara Frush, Paulene Menes and Brian Moe

Councilman Tom Dernoga

Refreshments will be served.
MAP

Car Thefts Along Muirkirk - Take Precautions

2006-03-02T20:46:00.000-05:00

This article follows up the information sent out in MH NEWS email on February 25. Click here to read that story as it was also posted on the Muirkirk Road News and Views blog at that time.

More information ...
Recently, police have put up an electric sign on Rt. 197 between Contee Road and Muirkirk Road, alerting citizens of this current rash of car thefts, which, in retrospect, appears to have begun as early as February 2 along Route 197 and its adjoining streets, including Muirkirk Rd.

According to P.G. Crime Reports in the Washington Post's weekly Thursday P.G. Extras Supplements, several vehicles have been stolen in nearby Montpelier, but no vehicles have been reported stolen in Montpelier Hills.

Stardust/Amazon Liquor Board Hearing Now May 3

2006-02-21T22:01:00.000-05:00

City of Laurel -- Official Press Release -- February 21, 2006

Stardust/Amazon Liquor Board Hearing Now May 3

Mayor Craig A. Moe has announced that his office has
received notification of a change in the Stardust/Amazon
Liquor Board Hearing. The hearing date originally
scheduled for Wednesday, March 1, 2006 HAS BEEN CHANGED.
The new date for the hearing is Wednesday, May 3, 2006. at 7 pm .
The Board will hold this hearing at 5012 Rhode Island Avenue,
Hearing Room 200, Hyattsville, Maryland 20781.

Mayor Moe suggests that anyone wanting additional
information regarding the Amazon liquor license application
to contact the Liquor Board at that address or by calling
301-699-2770.

Official Press Release Liquor Board Hearing-Stardust/Amazon

2006-02-03T12:46:00.000-05:00

For Immediate Release January 30, 2006

Contact: James Collins, Police Information Officer 301-725-
5300, ext. 244 E-Mail: jcollins@laurel.md.us

Mayor Craig A. Moe has announced that his office has
received an official notice of public hearing from the
Prince George’s County Liquor Control Board that the Board
will hear a request to change the mode of operation for
Corporate Enterprises, Inc. trading as Amazon at 13501
Baltimore Avenue, Laurel, Maryland. The Board will hold a
public hearing on Wednesday, March 1, 2006 at 7:00 p.m. to
hear the request. The Board will hold this hearing at 5012
Rhode Island Avenue, Hearing Room 200, Hyattsville,
Maryland. 20781.

Mayor Moe said this is an important hearing in the
Stardust/Amazon relocation process. From the notice, Mayor
Moe surmised that the name Amazon will continue to be the
name used for the business, rather than Stardust. Mayor Moe
advised that in order to assure that Amazon is bound to
operate at this address as a “family friendly restaurant”
as reported earlier, it is important for the Board to hear
from Laurel residents, churches and businesses, especially
those in close proximity of the restaurant location.

Mayor Moe encourages everyone to make his or her opinions
known to the Liquor Board regarding this matter. The ideal
result would be to relocate this establishment to another
location altogether. However, if that is not to occur, then
efforts must be made to compel Amazon to operate within the
context of the many established “family friendly
restaurants” in the area, and to compel the Liquor Board to
provide adequate public notice if any change in the license
status is again requested by the applicant.

Mayor Moe suggested anyone wanting additional information
regarding the Amazon liquor license application to contact
the Liquor Board at the previously stated address or by
calling 301-699-2770.

City of Laurel, Maryland
8103 Sandy Spring Road, Laurel, MD 20707
301-725-5300

Stardust /Amazon To Lose Exotic Dance Permit

2006-01-21T11:49:00.000-05:00

Official Press Release Stardust Inn License Change
For Immediate Release January 20, 2006
Contact: James Collins, Police Information Officer
301-725-5300, ext. 244 E-Mail: jcollins@laurel.md.us

Mayor Craig A. Moe has announced that the Prince George’s
County Board of License Commissioners has notified the City
of Laurel that the liquor license transfer application
filed by Stardust Inn has been amended to allow alcohol
service only in a restaurant setting. The request to
provide exotic female cabaret dancing has been removed from
its application. In a letter to the applicant’s attorney,
Mr. Franklin D. Jackson, Chairman of the Liquor Board, he
advised that the Stardust Inn “mode of operation would be
that of a family friendly restaurant”.

Mayor Moe said this is a significant modification to the
liquor license application. Mayor Moe thanked Laurel’s
State elected officials in the 21st District (Delegates
Barbara Frush, Pauline Menes, Brian Moe and Senator John
Giannetti) and Prince George’s County Councilmember Tom
Dernoga for working with and assisting the City in
preventing adult entertainment as proposed by the applicant
from establishing in the Laurel area. Mayor Moe commended
the Laurel City Councilmembers, CASE (Citizens Against
Sexual Exploitation), the Touch of Love Bible Church, and
City Solicitor Robert A. Manzi, for this accomplishment. He
thanked the Councilmembers for their support of the City’s
filing for a “Petition of Judicial Review” of the Board’s
transfer approval, and Mr. Manzi for his pro bono
representation of the Church. He expressed special thanks
to CASE for keeping this issue in front of the public.

Mayor Moe advised that the City of Laurel is a “Party of
Record” in this matter. Because of this designation, the
Liquor Board must notify the City of any requested change
in the Stardust Inn liquor license application. Mayor Moe
assured Laurel citizens and businesses that the City will
closely monitor the operations at this location and will
not hesitate to react accordingly should there be a change
in the provisions of the Liquor License.

City of Laurel, Maryland
8103 Sandy Spring Road, Laurel, MD 20707
301-725-5300

Route 1 & Contee Rd Construction Affects Traffic

2005-10-07T21:46:00.000-04:00

Today i saw this posted at the Silver Diner on Route 1, Laurel, MD.

The last paragraph has links to graphics of the construction plan and detour map.

For updates watch http://www.petrieventures.com

=============================================

Centre at Laurel, LLC
170 Jennifer Road
Annapolis, MD 21401

US 1/CONTEE ROAD IMPROVEMENT PROJECT

Traffic Shifts and Construction Work – Beginning on or about October 7, 2005
The Maryland State Highway Administration will assist Petrie Ventures with lane closures along US 1 in Laurel beginning on or about Friday, October 7 for up to eight days as part of Petrie Ventures construction of the Centre at Laurel in Prince George’s County.

Beginning on or about October 7, traffic along US 1 in the area of Contee Road will be reduced to one lane in each direction for up to eight days, twenty-four hours each day.

Through traffic along US 1 is being asked to AVOID THE AREA and use I-95, the Baltimore-Washington Parkway or MD-197 (Laurel Bowie Road) as alternate routes. Access to all businesses along US 1 will be maintained though some left-turning movements may be restricted during temporary phases of construction. All pedestrian movements will be maintained though pedestrian activity in the area is limited.

MAJOR DELAYS are expected throughout the US 1 corridor, particularly during peak traffic periods. Single-lane traffic will be shifted along US 1 north and south of the US 1/Contee Road intersection to allow for construction of two new box culverts under US 1. Left turns from Southbound US 1 onto Contee Road will be restricted for the duration of the construction. Motorists will be directed from Southbound US 1 onto Cherry Lane to Maryland 197 back to Contee Road. The US 1/Contee Road intersection floods frequently. The new drainage system will improve drainage dramatically.

When the entire project is complete in early December, the intersection will include north and southbound double left turn lanes at all four approaches and additional safety features on US 1.

Contact Information
Any questions regarding the construction of the Centre at Laurel or construction-related questions about the work along US 1 should be directed to Karen Colony, Marketing and Public Relations Manager of Petrie Ventures, 1-800-970-0298.

More information:
Click here to view a conceptual drawing that shows both the before and after of the US 1 and Contee Road improvements.

Click here to view the Maryland State Highway Administration Press Release.

Click here to view detour plan.

Laurel-Beltsville Elementary Construction Delayed

2005-09-15T01:34:00.000-04:00

Letter to Laurel Leader Editor from District 1 County Councilman, Tom Dernoga, Sep 15, 2005

The Prince George's County Public Schools staff just proposed deferring the proposed Laurel-Beltsville Elementary School in favor of other projects.

This recommendation is not in the CEO's Capital Improvement Program released for public discussion. Instead, the deferral was raised in a committee work session outside the general public view.

When is the public to be informed? After the hearing process is over?

The full text of this item is at this link

MH Residents may discuss this item and other topics of community interest on the MH-INTERACT email list.

Slow School Zone Project Resumes

2005-08-22T00:00:00.000-04:00

This photo by Greg Dohler shows pupils crossing Muirkirk Rd.
on their way to school. It was published in the Feb. 10, 2005 edition
of The Laurel Gazette.

As Montpelier Elementary School begins its new school year, the Slow School Project also resumes.

The Slow School Zone Project is a Montpelier E.S. & PTA endorsed effort to achieve sustained reduction in speeding and aggressive driving on Muirkirk Raceway, to protect children at least during morning and afternoon crossing-guard times on school days.

For more information and how to participate click here

Verizon Trenching Suspected in Home Water Line Breaks

2005-07-19T13:39:00.000-04:00

The following was reported on July 18 by my neighbor on Fairlane Place whose outside water supply line broke on the same day that Verizon trenched and installed fiber optic cable conduit across his property on Fairlane Place, as they are doing throughout our local area in preparation for new broadband Fiber Optic to the Home (FTTH) aka Fiber to the Premises (FTTP) for telephone, very high-speed internet and video services, also marketed as FiOS. www.verizon.com/fios

The full text of this item is at this link

MH Residents may discuss this item and other topics of community interest on the MH-INTERACT email list.

Muirkirk Road to Become DeFacto Extension of ICC

2005-07-19T01:30:00.000-04:00

On July 11, 2005, after decades of debate, Maryland Governor, John Ehrlich, Jr., announced the state's chosen route for the Inter-County Connector (ICC) between I-270 in Montgomery County and Prince George's County I-95 and eventually further east to Route 1.

The full text of this item can be read at this link

MH Residents may discuss this item and other topics of community interest on the MH-INTERACT email list.