January 2004 Lakelands Leader

H A P PY N E W Y E A R L A K E L A N D S !
The Lakelands Leader
www.lakelands.org
January 2004
Santa, Surprises and Fun!
what’snews?
Lakelands Celebrates the Holidays
Board Member Resigns
Turn to page 3 to find out which member
resigned from the LCA Board.
This Is Your Last Chance
If you want to be included in the 2004
Phone Directory fill out the form on page 3.
Lakelands
Teens Hit
the Stage
Check out page
13 to see which
teens stared in
Shakespeare’s
Tempest.
Our Town
Farewell to Zany Brainy, a bigger and better
movie theater and more on pages 12 and 13.
Sniffles, Sneezing and
Sore Throat?
Be sure to follow the tips on page 20 to
avoid getting the flu this season.
Santa’s Little Holiday
Helpers
See photos of Lakelands tots visiting with the
one and only Santa Claus on page 12.
Lakelands Living
Find out the winners of the Holiday House
Decorating Contest, turn to page 24.
Volume 6 Issue 1
By Andrea Escher
he holidays are always a busy time but the Lakelands
Social Committee was somehow able to arrange for
Santa Claus to stop by for a short visit with the children of the community.
That’s right in the midst of checking to see who’s been
naughty or nice, Santa made the trip from the North Pole
to Lakelands Clubhouse on the afternoon of Sunday,
December 7th. Santa enjoyed sipping juice and cookies
(supplied by the Social Committee) and had a great time
posing with pictures for almost 20 children.
In addition to a visit from Santa, children and parents
from all over the community stopped by to donate a new
toy to the Toys for Tots drive.
A special THANK YOU to Lakelands newest resident
Scott Hetner, who graciously volunteered to act as Santa
this year. Of course a very big THANK YOU to the
Lakelands Social Committee for organizing such a great
event. We hope to see you all next year, and you too Santa!
Be sure to check out more photos of Santa’s visit to
Lakelands on page 12.
T
Photo: Andrea Escher
Ho, ho, ho! (l-r) Megan McDanald, Madison Wakefield and Ashley McDanald
enjoy posing for a quick photo with Santa.
Family Night Presents The
Magic & Mischief of Brian Curry
By Jim Wakefield
The Lakelands Leader
CMI
960 Main Street
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
ark your calendars for Saturday,
January 10th, 7:00 – 9:00 PM for
some family fun at the Clubhouse.
The Lakelands Social Committee is proud
to present the magic of Brian Curry.
From Paris to Atlantic City, Brian has
traveled the world with his unique style of
magic. His clients range from huge corporations such as NASA
and Fannie Mae, to
private party events.
Brian’s work has
earned him awards at
two International Competitions. Additionally,
several of his original creations and ideas have been published. Now settled in the DC area,
Brian brings his unique style of
magic and humor to the Lakelands
Clubhouse as we kick-off our 2004
Family Night entertainment.
Snacks and beverages will be
provided; for questions please contact the Social Committee at
[email protected]. We hope to
see you there!
M
PRSRT STD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT #163
DULLES, VA
Lakelands Social Committee Kicks-off
2004 with New Events. See page 7 for
details.
Family fun night kicks off with the
magic of Brian Curry.
Jump Start
January Is Here
Lakelands Committees
Need You!
By Jose Ponton
he Lakelands Community Association kindly invites all those members
interested to come Saturday, January
17, 2004 at 10 AM to the Clubhouse [960
Main Street] for the Association’s Second
Annual Committee “Jump Start” Meeting!
Your Board of Directors worked closely
with the various existing committees to
address the operational needs of our community last year; and they feel committed
to keep these committees active with the
involvement and participation of volunteers just like YOU!
The following is a list of existing LCA
Committees, with a brief synopsis of their
respective responsibilities:
T
Communications Committee
They assist the Board in publishing
monthly newsletter, the administration of
our website and to otherwise act as a conduit of information between the
Association, its members and the community.
Budget & Finance Committee
They provide oversight of the management company in the preparation of
monthly financial statements, investment
of Association’s excess operating and/or
reserve funds and development of the
See AWARD continued on page 2
who’snews?
Happy Birthday
By Andrea Escher
Happy birthday
to Hallie Maytin
of Market Street
East as she will be
celebrating her
2nd birthday on
January
15th.
Hallie is looking
forward to seeing
all of her friends
at her birthday
party. Have a
great time Hallie
and don’t forget
to make a wish
when you blow
out the candles.
JUMP START
Continued from page 1
annual operating and capital reserve budgets
Environmental & Beautification Committee
Oversee the ongoing common ground maintenance by
monitoring landscaping / general contractor(s) engaged by
the Association; as well as, the further development of various amenities throughout the community.
Facilities Committee
Monitors the maintenance , improvements and/or additions to the Association’s recreational facilities; along with
being responsible for the establishment of policies that
govern their respective usage by members [or guest] of the
Clubhouse and related recreational facilities.
Social Committee
Happy belated birthday to
Alexa Linchuck of Main Street,
who celebrated her 1st birthday
on September 9th. There was
plenty of cake, ice cream, family
and friends at Alexa’s birthday
bash. We hope she had a great
time and wish her many happy
more.
Happy belated birthday wishes
to Drew Levine of Lake Varuna
Drive. Drew celebrated his 5th
birthday with a party full of family and friends. We hope you had
a great day and wish you many
happy more!
2
The Lakelands Leader
Honorable
Mention
The Lakelands Leader wishes to
extend their apologizes to Chelton
and Linda Jenkins of 702 Linslade
Street. The couple was awarded honorable mention for the City of
Gaithersburg Landscaping awards
and we forgot to list them in last
month’s edition. Congratulations to
the Jenkins family upon this recognition from the City and thanks for
keeping Lakelands beautiful.
Design / coordinate various social / cultural / recreational activities that will entertain and/or educate, while
being open to all members within the community.
Community Relations
Address member concerns with respect to safety and/or
“quality of life” issues within the community that are not
necessarily handled by the Association but other entities
such as the City of Gaithersburg and/or Montgomery
County.
Design Review Committee
Enforce and exercise the architectural guidelines provided within the Association’s governing documents; and/or
amended from time to time by the Association.
Please join us on Saturday, January 17th at 10:00 a.m. as
refreshments will be provided, and more information on the
committees will be available. See You There!
January 2004
A Final Phone Directory Plea
Please Submit Your Form Today!
This is a last chance reminder to each and every Lakelands resident who has not yet submitted their phone directory information form to be included in the 2004 directory. So
far, we have received about 200 forms, considering there is over 1,000 homes in the community, this is not a great response.
EVERY resident MUST RESUBMIT their form ONLY IF they WANT to be included in
the directory. We will NOT be re-running old information. Many residents have moved
from the community, moved from street to street, and changed their phone numbers
and/or email addresses. It is imperative that the most up to date information be submitted.
Forms may be mailed, emailed or faxed for your convenience! The deadline has been
extended to January 15th so don’t delay.
Thanks in advance for your cooperation!
Miller Resigns from LCA Board
By Andrea Escher
he Lakelands Community Association
Board of Directors received a resignation letter from Treasurer Shawn
Miller. Miller, who was elected to the Board
last spring, has played an active role in the
LCA. Serving on both the Budget & Finance
Committee and on the Board of Directors,
Miller has spent countless hours volunteering his time to help the community.
Miller and his wife Heather recently welcomed a second baby girl into their family,
and working full time as a CPA, Miller has
decided to resign from the Board to spend
more time with his family.
The Lakelands Community Board of
Directors and members of the community
wish to extend their thanks to Miller for his
dedication to the community and best of
luck to you and your family in the future.
T
Photo: Family Photo
A special thank you to Shawn Miller for his
service on the LCA Board.
January 2004
The Lakelands Leader
3
lakelandsinbrief
By Andrea Escher
The Lakelands Leader
The Official Newspaper of Lakelands
LCA Board of
Directors
Joe Coratola
President
301-216-0336
Burton Goldstein
Vice President
301-548-9555
[email protected]
Leslie Weightman
Treasurer
301-258-1058
[email protected]
Verna Van Wert
301-208-6525
[email protected]
Management
CMI
Jose Ponton
(240) 631-8338
[email protected]
Editor & Advertising
Manager
Andrea Escher
(301) 519-1678
[email protected]
Leader
Contributors/Writers
Diane Arkin
Tim Clarke
Kerri Donnelly
Dr. David Handel
Flora Kessler
Patrick McCalley
Dr. Brian Paris
Prigal Brothers
Jim & Lori Wakefield
Wayne Zussman
A Toys for Tots Thank You
Thanks to the organizational effort of
Lakelands Drive resident Maureen Stiles,
many children in the local area celebrated
the holidays with presents donated by you!
Stiles worked in conjunction with the U.S.
Marine Corps to bring the Toys for Tots
program to Lakelands, and thanks to your
generosity, many gifts were donated to the
cause this year. A special THANK YOU to
Maureen Stiles and all of the residents who
donated, we hope next year will be even
bigger and better.
It’s Getting Awful Dark
Since the weather has gotten colder,
many residents have not ventured out to
change their burned out light bulbs on
garages in the alleys. We remind all neighbors to please take a moment and change
these bulbs. Lighting in the alleys will help
to deter any possible crime in the community and during this snowy season, it
enables the snow crews to plow your alleyway during the evening hours. Thanks for
your cooperation.
Christmas Tree
Recycling Continues
The City of Gaithersburg would like to
remind you the annual holiday tree-recycling program is in effect all month long.
Beginning Thursday, January 8th Lakelands
residents should place their trees out with
their regular recyclables on Thursdays. In
addition to Christmas trees, the City will be
picking up live garland and holiday
wreaths. We do ask that you remove all
ornaments, lights and tree stands from
your trees and wreaths. Should you have
any questions please contact the City of
Gaithersburg’s Public Works Department
at 301-258-6370.
And There’s More…
The City of Gaithersburg Public Works
crews have been busy installing additional
speed humps in the community. As reported several months ago, a third speed hump
was installed on Lakelands Drive during
the early part of December.
Many residents have stated that this new
hump is much higher then the other two,
the height is to create more awareness and
of course to slow down traffic in and out of
the community. An additional speed hump
was installed at the Main Street/Golden Ash
Way location.
Residents are hopeful that more speed
humps will be considered in other areas of
the community in the future. The
Community Relations Committee is continuing to study high traffic areas and
problems and will advise the City of any
additional changes they would like made.
We’ll keep you posted!
A Few Snow Reminders
■ Residents are responsible for clearing
snow from their unit’s walkways, driveways and sidewalks surrounding their
property line; per City statues within
twelve (12) hours after snow/ice storms.
Sand and/or kitty litter are recommended applications to enhance safety/traction in these areas.
■ Live/Work Units are responsible for
clearing the parking spaces in front and
behind your units.
■ Streets completely paved will be plowed
by the City of Gaithersburg, as any questions or concerns with their response
during and/or after a storm can be
directed to them by calling 301-2586370.
■ Streets not yet completed will be plowed
by Classic Community Corporation (the
developer, 301-610-6614); and any alleys
still under construction will be the lot’s
builders responsibility.
■ Association will provide plowing for ALL
completed alleys and mews; as well as,
the sidewalks along the Clubhouse and
other specific common areas.
Please do your part, shovel your sidewalk, driveways, etc. Your cooperation is
appreciated by management but most
importantly by your neighbors.
Back in Action
The Lakelands Community Association
Board of Directors will reconvene after a
holiday break to hold their regular monthly meeting on January 28th at 6:30 p.m. on
the 3rd floor of the Clubhouse. We hope to
see you there!
The Lakelands Leader is the monthly, published means of communicating information
of interest to Lakelands residents. It does not
espouse any political belief or endorse any
product or service. Articles and letters submitted for publication must be signed and may be
edited for length and content. CMI and the
LCA do not endorse the products or services
advertised herein, nor are they responsible for
any claims made by advertisers. The Leader is
published by the Association, which is responsible for form, content and policies.
Layout & Design
Electronic Ink - [email protected]
Printing
Silver Communications www.silver-com.com
4
The Lakelands Leader
januaryevents
January 5th
Lakelands Toddler Playgroup
(18-24 months), 10:00 a.m. Contact Melissa Fritz
for more information: 301-869-2025.
*meets every Monday.
Cross Green Condo Association Meeting
7:30 p.m. 334B Cross Green Street, contact Glen
Loveland at 301-468-8919 x 206 for more details.
January 6th
Lakelands Infant Playgroup,
(12-18 months) meets every Tuesday at noon
& Thursday at 2:00 p.m. Contact Linda Green
for more information at 301-963-1341.
January 7th
Community Relations Committee Meeting,
7:00 p.m. 3rd floor of the Clubhouse.
Contact Mark Ezrin at [email protected]
for more information.
January 8th
Garden Club Meeting, 7:15 p.m.
Contact Deb Zussman at 301-990-0249.
January 10th
Lakelands Family Fun Night
Magic of Brian Curry, 7:00 p.m. at the Lakelands
Clubhouse. Contact the Social Committee at
[email protected] for more details.
January 12th
Lakelands Networking Club,
8:30 a.m. third floor of the Lakelands Clubhouse.
Contact Wayne Zussman at [email protected]
for more information.
Communications Committee Meeting,
7:00 p.m. 3rd floor of Clubhouse.
Contact Bobby Mozumber at
[email protected] for more information.
January 14th
Facilities Committee
7:00 p.m. 3rd floor of Lakelands Clubhouse,
contact Scott Fischthal at [email protected]
or at 240-631-8338.
January 15th
Deadline for contributions & advertisements for
the Lakelands Leader.
January 17th
Jump Start January,
10:00 a.m. at the Lakelands Clubhouse, contact
Jose at 240-631-8338 for more information.
January 20th
Budget & Finance Committee Meeting
7:00 p.m. 3rd floor of Clubhouse.
Contact Wayne Zussman at [email protected]
for more information.
January 21st
Environmental & Beautification Committee
Meeting, 7:00 p.m. 3rd floor of Clubhouse.
Contact Bev Frey [email protected]
for more information.
January 25th
Deadline for Design Review Applications.
lease contact Jose Ponton at 240-631-8338 or
[email protected] for more information.
January 27th
Social Committee Meeting, 7:00 p.m. 3rd floor
of the Lakelands Clubhouse, contact Jim or
Lori Wakefield at 301-926-7577 or
email [email protected].
January 28th
Lakelands Board of Directors Meeting, 6:30 p.m.
3rd floor of the Lakelands Clubhouse.
Contact Jose at [email protected]
or 240-631-8338.
Slow Down! Main Street & Golden Ash Way welcome a new speed hump.
January 2004
managementmentions
here’s bad news and good news. First
the bad news: volunteers basically run
the
Lakelands
Community
Association. Your board and each of your
committees somehow find qualified, competent people willing to give up their free
time and work long, unappreciated hours
to keep their neighborhood on track.
Without them, your manager’s agenda /
projects may go unprocessed, your Web site
might not get updated, and your social
events would be understaffed or non-existing.
Now for the good news: volunteers basically run the Lakelands Community
Association! The LCA has at its disposal a
readily accessible supply of people from
different backgrounds, with different skills
and experiences, all with one very basic
thing in common: They all call the
Lakelands home!
Unfortunately, there’s a little more bad
news: Finding good volunteer leaders isn’t
easy. Getting them on board is no picnic,
either; and inspiring them can be murder
on management! Volunteers are like extraterrestrial; we suspect they’re out there
somewhere, but sometimes we have no idea
who they are or how to find them.
Surprisingly, we’ve discovered some good
prospects hiding in plain sight; and “Jump
Start January” has been the perfect forum
for this in the past!
Your Board of Directors worked closely
with the various existing committees to
address the operational needs of our community last year; and they feel committed
T
It Takes You!
By José
Ponton, Jr.
Manager, Lakelands
Community
Association
in keeping these committees active with the
involvement and participation of volunteers just like YOU! That is why they kindly invite all those members interested to
come Saturday, January 17, 2004 at 10 AM
to the Clubhouse [960 Main Street] and
learn how you can make a difference and
contribute in your community continued
success!
Do you know me?
Identity theft is growing rapidly; as various reports indicate Businesses lost $47.6
billion and victims lost $5 billion to identity theft in 2002. On average, statistics show
that victims spend 175 hours tracking the
crime, 23 months correcting credit reports,
and $800 in expenses to restore their financial standing.
When you put your house on the market,
strangers may traipse through your home
for 20 minutes or more during a showing.
Even if you have your cash and jewelry
locked away, identity thieves can still cap-
ture the information they need to make
your life a living hell.
These tips will help protect your identity.
Turn OFF your computer. Install password protection on your home computer
and turn your computer off before
prospective buyers arrive. If you have a laptop or personal organizer, lock it up.
Protect your passwords. Passwords won’t
do much good sitting next to your computer or written on Post-It notes stuck to your
monitor. Keep your passwords in a locked
filing cabinet or safe.
What’s on your counter? Checkbooks
and bank or credit card statements contain
enough information for an identity thief to
do serious damage. Keep your mail and
bills locked /stored away.
If you believe you’ve been hit with identity theft, call the fraud departments of the
major credit bureaus: Equifax (800-5256285), Experian (888-397-3742), and
TransUnion (800-680-7289), and ask that a
fraud alert be placed on your file. This will
prevent new accounts from being opened
in your name without your knowledge.
Then call the local police and file a report.
You may need the report to prove to banks
and credit card companies that the theft
actually occurred.
Visit the FTC’s web site at www.consumer.gov/idtheft and download a copy of
“When Bad Things Happen to Your Good
Name.” This publication contains tips on
avoiding identity theft and provides stepby-step instructions on what to do if you’ve
been victimized.
lcadeveloper’sreport
akelands has been approved to include
1410 homes at completion. The breakdown of units is as follows: 253 apartments; 204 townhome condominiums; 16
live/work townhomes; 444 townhomes; 441
single family homes; and 52 single family
cottages. These totals do not include the 26
single family homes in the Gatehouse section which are part of Kentlands; or the 159
condominium homes and 56 single family
homes that are in Lakelands Ridge as it has
its own separate HOA. Also within
Lakelands there will be an office building at
Market Square, a synagogue, and a restaurant at the entrance on Lakelands Drive.
L
HIGHLIGHTS
The planting of street trees and other
landscaping will resume next spring.
All of the remaining roads and alleys
have been surface paved, with the exception
of Still Creek Lane, Turtle Pond Lane, and
Short Street.
DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITY
SURFACE PAVING SCHEDULE: The
remaining surface paving will be completed
next spring.
AMENITIES: Most of the amenities
have been completed and accepted by the
HOA. We continue to discuss various alternatives with the HOA for the play equipment and trails off Still Creek Lane, which
will be installed next spring after all other
construction is completed. The Lake
Varuna trail is being finalized with the City.
STREET TREES: Should you notice an
unhealthy or dead tree please tie a red ribbon around it and notify the property manager of the closest house address.
STREETLIGHTS: Should you notice a
streetlight in need of repair please tie a red
ribbon around it and notify the property
manager of the closest house address.
PARK & SCHOOL OFF MAIN STREET:
Classic Community Corporation is not
involved in these areas. For information on
these improvements please contact the
City.
Should you have any questions about any
issue within the community, we ask that
you first contact the property manager. We
will keep them informed as schedules
become known, and they can provide all
the residents with consistent and up to date
information. Often times the property
manager can help you immediately, however if they need guidance they will contact
us. This method of communication will
help expedite the completion of all the
improvements and is fair to all the residents. We thank you for your patience and
cooperation.
Who’s News, Classifieds, Advertise
Contact the Lakelands Leader to include your community news.
Deadline for the February issue is January 15th.
Email: [email protected] or call Andrea at 301-519-1678.
A Reminder
from the DRC
By Andrea Escher
ike most planned communities,
Lakelands has a process of architectual control, as any exterior improvement that is made to your house or lot, no
matter how small, must receive approval
from the Design Review Committee (DRC)
prior to starting the project.
Please consult your Association’s governing documents for specific guidelines. A
copy of the application can be found at the
website – www.lakelands.org or you can
pick one up at the Clubhouse.
Applications are due in at the onsite
management office on or before the 25th of
each month.
L
citynews&events
Chinese New
Year Celebration
akeforest Mall and the Chinese
Culture and Community Service
Center (CCACC) join again to celebrate the 4th Annual Chinese New Year
Celebration at Lakeforest from January 19
through February 1, 2004.
The daily festivities showcase 30-foot
dragons, 6-foot Chinese lanterns, a 210foot representation of the Great Wall of
China and cultural displays and artifacts,
highlighted by weekend performances on
January 24 - 25 and January 31- February
1.
Performances include a Lion Dance and
Dragon Dance in Center Court. Other cultural activities will be held on the weekend
such as Chinese Dance and Opera demonstrations and arts and crafts. This year
marks 4702, the Year of the Monkey.
L
WHAT:
WHEN:
WHERE:
INFO:
Chinese New Year
Celebration.
January 24-25 and January
31 February 1
Lakeforest Mall,
Gaithersburg, Maryland
Please call 301-840-5840
TTY/TDD or visit www.
shoplakeforest.com.
Welcome Coffee
The Gaithersburg Area Newcomers Club
will hold an Open House for prospective
new members on Friday, January 9, 2004,
10:00 a.m.
The Meeting will be held in a private
home in the Gaithersburg area. For information and directions;
Call 301-528-5139 or 301-208-2549.
The Gaithersburg Area Newcomers Club
is a non profit social organization established to promote friendship and help new
residents become familiar with the community.
It offers a variety of interest groups and
monthly socials.
See CITY continued on page 9
January 2004
The Lakelands Leader
5
mom’spointofview
Remembering What the
Holidays Are All About
By Kerri Donnelly
ach year during the holidays I do
things that bring back memories from
my childhood. Old traditions like putting up a live Christmas tree, drinking
eggnog while hanging the ornaments, filling the stockings, and opening just one
present on Christmas Eve.
These are things my parents and I shared
together when I was growing up. Now that
I am sharing these memories with my own
daughter I found myself wanting to start a
new tradition just for us.
I scramble to the stores for ideas. What
can I do? What do I give her that can make
her remember what Christmas in our
home is all about? In the stores crowds are
scurrying about with carts filled with gifts
for friends and loved ones.
Bumping each other, they argue over
people cutting in line, or stick their heads
out their car windows yelling over parking
spaces. Everyone is so eager to buy, buy, and
buy. It pulls everyone in. It grabs hold and
won’t let go.
Suddenly, I must get the biggest and best
gift of all for my daughter. Yet nothing
seems to hold up to my expectations.
My cart is full. My daughter spent as she
is starts to fuss in the cart. I bribe her with
goldfish to keep her satisfied while we’re
waiting in line. She fusses some more and
throws her goldfish on the floor. I think
I’m about to lose it when suddenly my
daughter gives me a gift. For Mommmm
she says and bends for a kiss.
“Up….Please”. She brings me back and
I realize what matters most is not the gifts
or toys piled in my cart. And despite my
E
By Kerri
Donnelly
need to teach her something all the time, I
discover it’s her that’s teaching me. She’s
made me into a kinder more loving person.
I’ve learned how to give like never before.
I’ve learned I’m capable of much more
than I ever thought I was. All with a kiss
and I melted.
I know I always will. I’ve realized that no
matter what, it’s the love that’s remembered, not the gifts that are given, but the
times spent together sharing and caring
about each other. These are the things that
matter most.
These are the things we take with us in
our hearts and in our homes even if we’re
so very far apart from the ones we love.
True traditions live on because we are a
part of them.
If we let them they will become the spirit that soars in our homes. And through
any hardships we learn that what matters
most is the love in our hearts for each
other. These are the things often unsaid
during the holidays. These are the things
we hold dear. These are the things I want
my daughter to feel every year during the
special holiday season and every day when
I get lost, I know she will always bring me
back.
socialcommitteeupdate
By Jim and Lori Wakefield
W
elcome to the New Year! Here’s
what’s coming up this month on
the Lakelands social scene…
Family Night:
Saturday, January 10th, from 7:00 – 9:00
PM. Enjoy the mischief and magic of Brian
Curry. Brian brings his unique style of
magic and humor to the Lakelands
Clubhouse as we kick-off our 2004 Family
Night entertainment. Snacks and beverages
will be provided; we hope you will join us
for an evening of family fun and magic.
Happy Hour
Friday, January 30th, from 6:00 - 8:00
PM. Come meet with other adults in the
Red Room at the Lakelands monthly
Happy Hour on the last Friday night of
each month. Beer, wine and appetitizers
will be provided in the Clubhouse Red
Room.
6
The Lakelands Leader
Superbowl XXXVIII:
While it seemed like a good idea, our survey on the Lakelands.org web site reflects
that there just is not much interest in
attending the game at the Clubhouse. Only
28% of the 47 that responded were in favor
of attending the game at the Clubhouse.
We have therefore decided to cancel the
event.
Brian Curry will be sure to dazzle
you with his magic.
Committee members and other volunteers are always needed. The monthly meetings are regularly held in the top floor of
the Clubhouse on the fourth Tuesday of the
month starting @ 7:00 PM. You are invited
to attend the next Social Committee meeting on January 27th. Please call 240 6835704 or e-mail [email protected] with
any questions.
We hope to see you there!
January 2004
Coming Attractions!!
Family Night
Saturday, January 10th
7:00 - 9:00 PM
Lakelands Clubhouse
The Lakelands Social Committee
proudly presents the magic of Brian Curry!
Come join us as we kick-off the New Year in a special way!
Brian has been wowing audiences world wide and brings his
unique yet goofy, klutzy persona to the Lakelands Clubhouse as
we inaugurate Lakelands Family Night of entetainment.
Snacks and beverages will be provided.
Beginning in 2004, Family Nights are held monthly on the second Saturday of each month
from 7:00 to 9:00 PM.. Keep checking the Lakelands Leader for future events!
Sponsored by:
Jayme Schneider - Mortgage Banker
320 Main Street (in the Lakelands) Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Work: (301) 591-2502 Cell: (301) 346-3614
Happy Hour
Friday, January 30th
6:00 - 8:00 PM
Lakelands Clubhouse
Come meet your neighbors as we kick-off the New Year,
Lakelands style. Beer, wine and appetitizers will be provided.
Beginning in 2004, Happy Hours are held monthly on the last
Friday of each month. Adults only, please!
Sponsored by:
- Kentlands Market Square - 625 Center Point Way
- Potomac Promanade
- 9812 Falls Road
- Traville Village Center
- 9707 Traville Gateway Dr.
January 2004
The Lakelands Leader
7
Are You a Good Neighbor? The Survey Says….
The Social Committee is looking for a
few good neighbors! If you have an interest
in making Lakelands a better place to live,
give us a call!
We are currently looking for volunteers
for the following events…
■ Family Nights
■ Happy Hours
■ Beach Party (March 20th)
You do not have to attend meetings, just
be willing to lend a hand at events.
Interested? Give us a call 240-683-5704.
Thanks!
Merchants, Looking for another method
of getting your name out in the public eye?
Try sponsoring a Lakelands Social
Committee event. There are, happy hours,
family fun nights, poolside parties and
more planned for 2004.
Contact Jim @ 240 683-5704 for more
information.
Give Blood
The Red Cross is seriously low on all
types blood due to the weather and holiday
season, when fewer people donate.
If you are 17 or older, you can help save
someone’s life by giving the precious gift of
life. The nearest Red Cross Blood Center is
on Frederick Ave. (Route 355) neat
Lakeforest Mall. Call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE
today to schedule an appointment.
Here are the recent questions posed to Lakelands residents via our Survey Says on the
www.lakelands.org website.
Get Rid of your Car?
Would you be willing to go Car Less if public transportation facilities efficiently provided most of your transportation needs?
Total Community Surveys Received: 67
“No way! Cars are a good thing!” 52 votes
78%
“Possibly... I have no attachment to my car.” 12 votes
18%
“Yes! I would like to get rid of my car!” 2 votes
3%
“Too late.. I already got rid of my car.” 1 votes
1%
Super Bowl Party?
Super Bowl 38 will be played on February 1st, 2004. The Social Committee is planning
on hosting a Super Bowl party at the Clubhouse with snacks and beverages provided.
Would you attend such an event?
Total Community Surveys Received: 56
“No, but I don’t mind if the committe held the event.” 16 votes
29%
“Yes” 15 votes
27%
“No, I’ll stay at home to watch it” 9 votes
16%
“No, I traditionally attend the event at another location.” 7 votes
12%
“No, I usually don’t watch it “ 7 votes
12%
“No opinion” 2 votes
4%
Thank you for participating and be sure to log on this month for the current surveys of
the month!
Lakelands Playgroup Forming
By Andrea Escher
ome one, come all! A new playgroup for children is getting organized and will
be meeting every Thursday beginning January 8th in the “Green Room” 1st
floor of the Lakelands Clubhouse. The playgroup is open to Lakelands residents only and their guests. The fun will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
If you have further questions regarding the playgroup, please contact Lakelands
resident Irene at [email protected] or by calling 301-947-9107.
C
A New Year, A New You!
Pilates & Yoga Classes Forming
lasses are forming now for any interested Lakelands residents who would
like to sign up for yoga and/or pilates
classes at the Lakelands Clubhouse.
Yoga is for all ages and all levels! Vinyasa
yoga is the ultimate journey for those who
want to tap into their physical and spiritual power.
This class detoxifies, heals and electrifies.
It will sculpt and tone the muscles of your
body and mind. Classes will be held every
Wednesday for an hour starting January
7th to February 4th at 7:00 p.m.
Pilates is back! Using basic pilates mat
C
8
The Lakelands Leader
exercises, our pilates floorwork specialists
will focus on improving postural alignments, increasing flexibility and strengthening your core muscles.
The classes will be held every Thursday
starting at 6:30 p.m. beginning January 8th
through February 5th. The cost is $65.00
for the session.
If you are interested in signing up for
these programs, contact Brian Friend of the
Sergeant’s Program at 301-944-1229 or via
email at [email protected] . Limited space
is available, so sign up today!
January 2004
Photo: Jim Wakefield
The Lakelands Bunko Babes: top: Diane Sandy, Karrie Strohman, Jenny Slater, Melissa Fritz, Lori Wakefield,
Kellie Hetman, Pam Rose Bottom: Patti Beisner, Barbara Schaefer, Stephanie Blitz, Robyn McKnight,
Barbara Winderlich, Corynne Levy, Susan Benovitz, Sheryl Wolf-Heller, May Cheih, Mia Pearlstein.
Want To Play Bunko?
Join the Lakelands Bunko Club
T
he Lakelands Bunko Club was founded in May 2003 and now with over 50
members, the Club meets regularly
during the 2nd week of the month, rotating
Monday-Thursday at various homes
throughout the neighborhood.
What is Bunko? The game is similar to
Yahtzee they say! Played in various ways, a
total of 12-20 girls play at a time. The goal
of the game is the same … to socialize and
have fun!
If you are interested in joining as an
alternate, please contact Lori Wakefield at
301-926-7577.
CITY
other activities in the event that Mayor
Sidney Katz is unable to attend. She will
serve as Vice President for a term of one
year.
Somerset was first elected to the
Gaithersburg City Council in 1999. Prior to
that she was active in community groups,
T.R.O.T. and the Sierra Club. She is
Director of Administrative and Building
Services for the American Pharmaceutical
Association.
Somerset was nominated by Council
Member Geri Edens. Her nomination was
affirmed by the remainder of the Council.
Continued from page 5
Somerset Appointed City
Council Vice President
City Council Member Ann Somerset was
appointed Council Vice President at the
Monday, Nov. 17, 2003, Mayor and City
Council Meeting.
As Council Vice President, Somerset will
preside over meetings, ceremonies and
Got Used
Books You
Could Spare?
The book shelves in the red room at
the Lakelands Clubhouse are looking
quite bare. We are asking all residents
to please donate books – their gently
used hardback and paperback books –
to the Clubhouse.
Any and all types of books are appreciated. Your contributions should be
dropped off at the Lakelands Clubhouse.
We thank you for your generosity and donations!
January 2004
The Lakelands Leader
9
Never Too Early To Think Spring
(Especially in Real Estate)
By Prigal Brothers, Re/Max Realty
t is the beginning of January; you just finished all the holiday hustle and bustle.
You are happy to anticipate a few weeks,
which seem relatively uneventful, except for
the football playoffs and the ice skating
championships. AAAhh! A little respite from
the rush!!!
But don’t get too cozy! It may now be the
time to think about and plan spring projects,
especially if you plan to sell your home. If
you are considering listing your house in the
spring, then this is the best time to start the
planning process. Why now? Any project
will require a budget, a timeline, and a little
buffer.
For each project, you will need to get some
idea of the costs involved, the amount of
time required to complete, the availability of
necessary contractors, and the priority of
each. Remember, a problem well defined is
already half solved!! So just getting your
thoughts organized about your spring
cleanup will pay big dividends! And also
keep in mind that even the best plans will
have some delays so give ample time to each
project.
In setting the cleanup schedule, there
should definitely be priorities set. For purposes of curb appeal, the front door and
sidewalk approach should be clean and
appealing. Painting the front door may be
one of the most cost effective improvements
you can make. Making sure that the
I
Real Estate
News
By The Prigal
Brothers
approach to the front door is tidy and
appealing will also pay dividends.
Your inside projects should concentrate on
what is referred to as paragraph 12 items in
the Maryland Residential Contract of Sale.
Since it is required that all mechanical systems and related equipment be in working
condition, top attention should be directed
to the inspection, routine maintenance, and
repair of all appliances, all electrical systems,
heating and air conditioning, plumbing etc.
Also place on your calendar time to
declutter each room; also plan to paint areas
that are hardest used; schedule carpet cleaning prior to listing; do an audit of each room;
rooms with extreme colors or wall paper
should be addressed, particularly if these are
kitchen, master bedroom & bath. Damage to
any walls or doors should be repaired.
As you can see, it is not too early to do your
audit, make the “to do” list, set up a timeline,
contact the vendors, set funds aside, and
GET STARTED. Sorry – just when you
thought it was safe to prop your feet up and
take a well deserved after the holiday siesta,
IT’S TIME TO THINK SPRING!!
Teens Becoming Legal Adults
he New Year brings many thoughts to
mind and usually the year brings
major changes. If one of your life
changes involves a teenager turning 18 years
of age, there are a few matters to consider.
Even if there may be some questions in
your own mind, the law states that a person
becomes an adult when the person reaches
18 years of age. Since that person is an adult,
the parent has no legal power over the child
any longer. The checking account, credit
records, medical information, GRADES,
and many other matters are private.
A good idea is to have a general power of
attorney signed by the new adult which
authorizes the parent to handle business
related matters such as banking, with access
to the balance and checks paid, not just
depositing money into the account. There
are also forms available from IRS, which
can authorize a parent to have access to the
tax information of the child which may
relieve the burden of mailing documents
back and forth. There are disclosure documents available at schools for the student to
use to authorize the parents to get grade
information-, which may be important if
the parent is paying the bill for school.
Another vital document concerns a medical power of attorney and health care
directive. Such documents can give the parent access in an emergency when it may
otherwise denied. This is more important
than the banking issue since the federal and
state laws are quite protective of the privacy of the patient. The health care directive
is also vital since it may be tragically necessary to make important life and death decisions, and the new adult may not be able to
do so because of the health care issue.
Crucial issues concerning treatment are not
T
10
The Lakelands Leader
It’s
The Law
By Tim Clarke
restricted to the elderly; the first cases
before the courts on these issues concerned
a person in her 20’s.
Setting up a good record keeping system
for the new adult may be a big help. A good
list of license and passport numbers, medical insurance documentation, emergency
contact information, a simple bookkeeping
system and related matters, all can be easily
established and set up a procedure for the
new adult to follow. The documentation
should include contact information of professionals used and trusted by the family,
such as accountants, doctors, insurance
agents, and even lawyers. If this is all set up
on a computer, back up copies kept in a
separate location is essential.
Many of the suggested documents may
be available in bookstores and on the internet. The forms should be reviewed for technical accuracy and it may be appropriate to
check the state where the student will be in
school, especially for certain legal documents, and particularly if the student will
make the school state the official state of
residency. Legal assistance may be helpful
in this project.
Tim Clarke is a Kentlands and attorney with
the Kentlands Law Center on Firehouse Lane
in Kentlands.
January 2004
January 2004
The Lakelands Leader
11
Photos:
Andrea Escher
Our Town
Santa Visits Lakelands
Sam Zussman, at left,
of Lakelands Drive,
enjoys a short visit
with Santa.
Caroline Eckstrom,
below, of Market
Street East shares
her holiday wish list
with Santa.
Lauren & Madison
Wakefield, at bottom,
of Featherstone Street,
share a smile with
Santa.
Quizno’s Coming Soon!
n a few weeks a new sub shop will be opening in Lakelands! Quizno’s will be
opening their doors for business on Market Street West within the coming
weeks. Quizno’s has several locations throughout the area but the franchise
is excited to be calling home in a new live/work unit. We hope you will stop by
and try out one of their delicious subs and salads. Bon appetite!
I
Zany Brainy Closing
n icon in the Kentlands shopping district for many years, Zany Brainy has
announced it is closing its doors for good. As you may recall, several
months ago Zany Brainy declared bankruptcy and began shutting down
stores all over the United Stated, at the time it was not believed that the Kentlands
store would be closing, however signs have been posted and it’s official, Zany
Brainy is closing. While an exact closing date has not been determined, it is anticipated that the store will be closed by early spring. This is your last chance to check
out some of the hot deals and savings going on storewide. Zany Brainy features
children’s educational toys, books, music, tapes, car seats and more. Check it out
before it’s gone for good!
A
12
The Lakelands Leader
January 2004
Kentlands Stadium
Draft House
new name, a new look, the expansion of the
Kentlands movie theater has been completed.
The Kentlands Stadium 8 is now the
Kentlands Stadium 10 Draft House, the expansion
has added two
additional theaters to the
facility as well as
a café area complete with a new
menu featuring
sandwiches and
other food dishes, a variety of
beverages including beer and
wine. One of the
new theaters has
been designated
the “Over 21”
theater. Owner
Paul Huang says
the concept will
now allow beer
& wine to be
consumed while
watching
the
movie. The expansion
has
proved to be a
success and even more first rate films will be played
on the big screen! We encourage all Lakelanders to
stop by soon to catch one of the many exciting films
and don’t forget the popcorn.
Going, Going,
Gone!
A
The final phase of the vacant Uptons parcel has now been demolished. Lakelanders may have noticed the
Boston Market building was torn down in early December to make room for the redevelopment of Kentlands
Village, a soon to be new apartment community in Kentlands. The Leader will keep you posted as progress
develops!
Zussman Financial
on Main Street
ongratulations to Lakelands Drive resident Wayne
Zussman upon the recent opening of Zussman
Financial Advisors at 412 Main Street. Zussman is
excited to be working so close to home and says his main
goal to work with individuals to create, accumulate and preserve wealth. You can learn more about Zussman Financial
by logging onto www.ZussmanFinancialAdvisors.com or
contact Wayne Zussman today by calling 301-330-7500. Or
be sure to read Wayne’s monthly column Money Matters
each month, right here in the Lakelands Leader.
C
Kentlands, Lakelands, Kids Spark QO Theater Production of “Tempest”
Tempest,” she artfully played the main QO.
spirit, Iris, a Nymph, and was also underThe production was dependent on and greatly enhanced
tellar
performances,
study for the role of the Boatswain. In the by its skillful crew. Reid Simon of Kent Oaks Way was head
spectacular set design
last performance, Stephanie played all of lights and deserves kudos for his part in creating the
and costumes and drathree parts to perfection.
excitement of the storm scene and setting the mood
matic special effects highlightIn her first speaking role in school the- throughout the play. Reid also helped with set construced Quince Orchard High
atre, Whitney delivered her lines expres- tion. He has been a crewmember on five previous producSchool Theatre’s recent prosively as the spirit, Ceres. She also tions.
duction
of
William
appeared as one of the Nymphs in the
Other members of the crew included Bryce Griffler of
Shakespeare’s “The Tempest.”
well-choreographed opening storm Kersten Street and Brittany Stuhlmiller of Ridgepoint
Several
students
from
sequence and seemed to float across the Place. Bryce, with three productions under his belt, was one
Kentlands and Lakelands parstage in other magical
of two flies and helped with set
ticipated in the play, which
scenes throughout the
construction and painting. He
received critical acclaim from
performance. Whitney
aspires to be Stage Manager for
both the enthusiastic audihas taken voice lessons
a future production.
ences and Washington Post
at the Musical Theatre
Brittany, a Junior, helped crereviewers.
Center in Rockville
ate enchanting faces with her
Cast as the romantic lead,
and dance and acting
make-up artistry. She was also
Jeremy Lee of Ridgepoint
classes at the Black
an understudy for the characPlace portrayed his character
Rock Center for the
ter, Trinculo, in “The Tempest”
with great sensitivity and
Performing Arts in
and previously performed in
Photo: McCary
grace. This was his first perGermantown.
“The Sting” and “Oklahoma”
Casey Swartz of Lake Varuna Drive
formance with QO Theatre,
Another freshman,
for QO.
played dual roles in the play.
but not his first stage experiCasey Swartz of Lake
QO Theatre plans a One-Act
ence. Jeremy has sung at the
Varuna Drive, played
Play Festival for February 6th
Kennedy Center in “Children of the Gospel.” Hopefully, dual roles. Casey delivered a fine perand 7th. Students may present
audiences will hear him sing in future productions. In the formance as both Francisco, a lord
original works and have the
program, Jeremy credited his parents for his success.
attending the shipwrecked royal party,
opportunity of either directing
Also making their stage debut at QO were and a pesky Wood Elf who later frightor acting in their own play. Like
freshmenWhitney Arkin of Selby Street and Stephanie ens them. Although new to the QO
“The Tempest,” this future
Perkins of Cross Green Street. Both are veterans of theater Theatre, Casey has participated in other
endeavor promises to show off
productions at Ridgeview Middle School, with Stephanie venues. He has performed in small prothe talents of our neighborPhoto: McCary
playing key roles in “Annie” and “The Music Man.” ductions of “Cats” and “the Little Shop of
hood thespians and thrill the
Stephanie
Perkins
of
Cross
Green
Street
Stephanie has been taking voice, acting and dancing lessons Horrors,” and is a Theatre I student at
audience in the process.
shined as Iris.
at the Musical Theatre Center for several years. In “The
By Diane Arkin
S
January 2004
The Lakelands Leader
13
Understanding
Economic Indicators
conomic indicators are useful tools
that allow one to assess the overall
strength and likely direction of the
economy. These indicators can also have a
significant impact on the stock markets,
and it is important for anyone investing to
understand and monitor them.
They are watched closely by institutions
and any unexpected increase or decrease in
anyone of these can instantly move markets
dramatically. Below is a brief description of
some of the more important and widely
used economic indicators.
E
Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
GDP measures the total value of goods
and services produced in the United States.
The growth rate in GDP over the prior
period is computed in real terms, since
increases in output due to inflation have
been removed from the calculation.
The GDP measure is announced each
quarter. GDP is good indicator of the rate
at which the economy is expanding or
slowing down and can have a major impact
on the performance of the equity markets.
Consumer Price Index (CPI)
This index measures the change in price
of a fixed basket of goods and services,
which is intended to be representative of
the purchases of a typical consumer. The
rate of change of the CPI is the most
important indicator of inflation in the
United States economy, and a significant
change in inflation may result in a change
in monetary policy.
In addition, an accelerating inflation rate
will generally impact negatively on the
equity markets.
Non-Farm Payroll Employment
This monthly report provides an estimate of the number of payroll jobs at all
non-farm business establishments and government agencies, including data on the
average number of hours worked per week
and average hourly and weekly earnings.
Increases in payroll non-farm employment
signal an expanding economy whereas the
opposite is true in the case of declines.
Housing Starts
This report, issued monthly, provides an
estimate of the number of housing units on
which construction was started. Housing
starts are considered a leading indicator as
to the near-term performance of the economy, since they represent more than 20%
of total investment spending. Housing
starts are also monitored for the effects of
changes in monetary policy.
Retail Sales
This monthly report provides an estimate of the total sales of goods by all retail
stores in the United States. Spending on
services, which makes up about 50% of
consumer spending, is not included. This
report is used as in indicator to monitor the
rate of consumer merchandise spending in
the economy.
14
The Lakelands Leader
Money
Matters
By Wayne
Zussman, CFP
Business Sales and Inventories
This report measures the dollar value of
sales and inventories for the manufacturing, wholesale, and retail sectors of the
economy. High inventories indicate a slow
down in consumer spending, whereas low
inventories tend to single an increase in
consumer spending.
Durable Goods Orders
This report is a measure of the dollar volume of orders, shipments and unfilled
orders of “durable goods”, defined
as goods having a normal life span of three
years or more.
An increase in orders, shipments, and
unfilled orders indicates a strengthening in
demand which, in turn, will likely result in
increasing production and employment in
the durables sector.
Conversely, a decline in orders, shipments, and unfilled orders suggest a weakening in demand and a negative outlook
for production and employment in the sector.
Initial Jobless Claims
Initial jobless claims provides the number of new filings for state unemployment
benefits in the preceding month. This figure, when tracked on a monthly basis over
a period of time, enables policy makers to
determine if there is a discernable trend
towards strength or weakness in the labor
market.
Consumer Confidence Index
This index is based on a survey of several thousand households to determine the
level of consumer confidence of the economy in the near-term. Large shifts in the
value of this index often have a significant
effect on the equities markets.
Following these indicators closely may
help you better decide where to allocate
your investments.
Wayne Zussman is Certified Finanical
Planner™ practitioner and Lakelands resident. Please contact Wayne for a complimenatry meeting to discuss your investment
portfolio or to develop your roadmap for
financial success at 301-330-7500 or at [email protected].
Please
also
visit
www.ZussmanFinancialAdvisors.com for
additional information and articles.
January 2004
January 2004
The Lakelands Leader
15
An Organic ExperienceBut is it natural?
By: Flora Kessler, M.S., R.D., L.D.
s you walk down the aisles of your
local market, you now see the eyecatching signs for organic food
items. They sit right next to the conventional food products. This raises many
questions …. Is organic the same as natural? Is organic food better nutritionally
than conventional foods? Am I making a
better health choice if I choose to buy
organic?
A
What is organic food?
Open
3:00 - 8:00
Monday - Thursday
As of December 2000, the National
Organic Standards Board of the U.S.
Department of Agriculture (USDA) established a national standard for the term
“organic”. Organic food is defined by how it
cannot be made rather than how it can be
made. It must be produced without the use
of sewer sludge fertilizers, most synthetic
fertilizers and pesticides, as well as genetic
engineering, growth hormones, irradiation
and antibiotics.
Organic versus natural
10:00 - 2:00
Saturday
301-330-4004
Organic is not the same as natural. There
are no legal definitions for the term natural. When the term natural is used, it generally means that there has been minimal
processing and is preservative free, does not
contain artificial or synthetic ingredients,
including color additives.
Using the term natural does not include
a mandate for growing conditions /methods or the use of pesticides. Not all natural
foods are organic. Foods labeled as organic
must be certified by a federally approved
certifier that they have been grown in
accordance with the federal standards, as
well as adhere to certain definitions in
labeling.
These label definitions are as follows:
100% organic- Must contain only organically produced ingredients.
Organic- Must consist of at least 95%
organically grown ingredients with the
exclusion of water and salt.
Made with organic ingredients- Must
contain at least 70% organic ingredients.
Organic Farming
Organic forming is the oldest form of
agriculture. Prior to World War II, there
was no petroleum based chemicals for
farming. Many of the breakthroughs in
technology developed for the war were
found useful in agriculture. Chemicals used
in munitions and nerve gas were found
useful as fertilizer and insecticide. As of
recently, farmers are once again turning to
organic agriculture. This involves long term
planning, detailed record keeping and
major investments in equipment. There are
about 12,000 organic farmers nationwide,
and the number is growing by about 12
percent a year.
Beginning in October of 2002, all farms
and operations selling organic products
worth more than $5,000 a year must be certified by a firm accredited by the USDA. All
organic farmers are required to maintain
records regarding the production and handling of all items sold, labeled or represented as organic, submit to audits and evaluations form an accredited certifying agent,
and have distinct areas to prevent the unintentional application of prohibited sub-
16
The Lakelands Leader
Cook’s
Corner
By Flora Kessler, MS, RD, LD
stances to all land areas under organic
management. They must use organic seeds
as available, minimize soil erosion, and
have no prohibited substances applied to
their land for at least three years prior to
harvest.
Conventional farmers may use chemical
fertilizers, spray with insecticides and use
synthetic herbicides.
Is Organic better than conventional?
Both organic and conventional foods
must meet the same quality and safety
standards. The only difference is in the
manner in which the food is grown. No
definite scientific evidence exist to support
that one is more nutritious than the other,
although the more recent studies claim that
organic foods offer higher levels of some
nutrients, including vitamin C, iron, magnesium and phosphorus.
There is growing evidence that there is
less exposure to nitrates. Organic food has
been found to contain less pesticide residue
than conventionally produced food items.
However, if fruits and vegetables are properly washed, these chemicals can be
removed.
There are downsides to organic food that
you should be aware of before considering
purchasing items. Organic foods are more
costly. They are more prone to biological
contaminations as well. Manure is a known
carrier of human pathogens if used in an
untreated form.
Organic farmers are restricted from
using untreated manure within 60 days
before harvesting to avoid contamination.
Since fungicides are not permitted to be
used in organic farming, there may be a
greater risk of mycotoxin contamination
due to molds. A more worrisome issue is
that of E. coli bacterial contamination,
especially in animals.
However, both conventional and organically produced foods are prone to contamination by E. coli. Another concern is that
organic farmers cannot produce enough
food to fill large demands. This limits its’
usefulness in large feeding situations, such
as low socio-economic countries.
So why should I buy organic foods?
Organic farming enriches the soil and
protects our environment. The use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers
pollutes our planet. Conventional agriculture is the largest source of pollution in our
American rivers and streams. Farming is
thought to be responsible for up to 70% of
waterway pollution, more than our sewage
treatment plants and the pollution form
our air. All organically raised animals cannot be given growth hormones or antibiotics. The animal must be given access to
the outdoors, shade, and shelter. It is a
much more humane manner of raising aniSee COOKS CORNER continued on page 18
January 2004
Building Soon on Main Street
In Lakelands
For now, services and programs meet at Jones Lane
Elementary School
JOIN US FOR:
Spirited Shabbat and holiday services
Special children's programs for all ages on 2nd Shabbat of each week
Excellent Hebrew School for grades K-9
Nursery School and Parent-Toddler programs
Adult Education Programs
Social Activities
Call 301-926-8338 or check out our web site www.ShaareTorah.org
January 2004
The Lakelands Leader
17
LakelandsListings
By Prigal Brothers, Re/Max Realty
FOR SALE
Address
425 Clayhall Street
322 Inspiration Lane
560 Leaning Oak Mews
877 Still Creek Lane
Housing Type
Townhouse
Townhouse
Cottage
Single Family
Model
Dartmouth
Builder
Classic
Parkwood
Main Street
NV Homes
List Price
$427,750
$539,900
$435,000
$945,000
619 Linslade Street
481 Lynette Street
413 Stonemason Drive
Townhouse
Townhouse
Single Family
Georgetown
Miller & Smith $429,900
NV Homes
$450,000
Michael Harris $699,000
Listings as of 12/18/03
The information above was obtained from MRIS. Information is believed to be accurate, but
should not be relied upon without verification. These were not listing/sold exclusively by
Prigal Brothers, Re/Max Realty.
UNDER CONTRACT
Address
444 Chestnut Hill Street
922 Featherstone Street
633 Gatestone Square St.
639 Gatestone Square St.
658 Gatestone Street
724 Gatestone Street
210A Heathwalk Street
449 Lakelands Drive
628 Linslade Street
631 Linslade Street
723 Linslade Street
654B Main Street
535 Sheila Mews
410 Sheila Street
605 Still Creek Lane
841 Still Creek Lane
731 Turtle Pond Lane
Housing Type
Townhouse
Townhouse
Townhouse
Townhouse
Townhouse
Single Family
Condo-Townhouse
Townhouse
Single Family
Townhouse
Single Family
Condo-Townhouse
Cottage
Townhouse
Single Family
Single Family
Single Family
Model
Tarquin
Builder
Ryan Homes
Michael Harris
Georgetown Miller & Smith
Georgetown Miller & Smith
Georgetown Miller & Smith
Ryan Homes
Georgetown Ryland
Michael Harris
Abernathy
NV Homes
Georgetown Miller & Smith
Bartholomew NV Homes
Mt. Vernon
Ryland
Main Street
Tarquin
Ryan Homes
Bartholomew NV Homes
Dartmouth
NV Homes
Bartholomew NV Homes
List Price
$469,000
$469,900
$439,000
$434,000
$439,900
$675,000
$310,000
$479,900
$634,900
$442,900
$689,000
$320,000
$449,900
$489,990
$699,000
$929,000
$719,900
18
Continued from page 16
mals as food sources.
Many people feel that organic tastes better. This may or may not be true. It is healthier
for our environment. Some people view the purchase of organic foods as a health conscious choice, some as a form of environmental activism.
The decision is up to you.
The following are resources on organic foods:
■ “Nutritional Quality of Organic versus Conventional Fruits, Vegetables and rains,” by
Virginia Worthington, published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary
Medicine, Vol.7, No. 2, 2001 (pp. 161-173) www.foodisyourbestmedicine.com/organic.pdf
■ “Greener Greens? The Truth about Organic Foods, “ Consumer Reports, January
1998, page 13.
■ “Do you know what you’re eating? An analysis of U.S. Government Data on Pesticide
Residues in Foods, “ February 1999, Consumers Union of the United States Inc., Edward
Groth III, project director.
SOLD
Address
307B Main Street
COOKS CORNER
Housing Type
Condo-Townhouse
The Lakelands Leader
Model
Mt. Vernon
Builder
Ryland
Sold Price
$344,900
January 2004
January 2004
The Lakelands Leader
19
Put Your Legs Into
Shoveling, Not Your Back!
uring this time of year many chiropractic offices are filled with patients
with low back injuries from shoveling snow. Unfortunately, the snow must be
removed and snow blowers are not always
available. With proper mechanics back
injuries can be avoided while shoveling
snow.
Your lower back, or lumbar spine, is
comprised of discs, bones, joints, muscles,
and nerves. Your spine works best when it
is in the proper shape. Your lower back
should have a lordotic curve, a backward
bending curve. This proper structure
allows for balance in the spine. Having a
lordosis in your lower back enables proper
loading for the intervertebral discs and
appropriate feedback so the muscles can
respond effectively.
Keeping your spine in the same improper position over time weakens the discs and
causes the muscles to function improperly.
For example, sitting at your computer
hunched over puts your lumbar spine in a
forward flexed position. This compromises the strength of the disc and can lead to
damage over time. Research has shown us
that the most vulnerable position for lumbar disc injury is forward bending with
either twisting or bending simultaneously.
Let’s think about that, forward bending
with either twisting or bending simultaneously. What position do you see yourself
D
Herman R. Zarate, DPM
To Your
Health
By Dr. Brian Paris
shoveling snow? Exactly, forward bending
with either twisting or bending simultaneously. So how do you shovel and keep your
lower back in the proper shape? You have
to use your legs. You can either use a straddling stance or a squatting position. Your
body is designed and can handle lifting
heavy loads (of snow) if done effectively.
Use your legs while attempting to keep the
proper lordotic curve intact. You may end
up with sore legs, but at least you won’t end
up on the floor asking your spouse for my
number. Plus, you’ll have more energy
available to do the fun snow things!
For more information about ergonomics
or an in office workshop on how to avoid
common stress injuries please call our
office. We are committed to keeping the
community healthy.
For more information about chiropractic
health care please call 240.361.2225. Dr.
Paris is the director of Advanced Spine &
Wellness Center in King Farm.
Fighting the Flu
Tips for Surviving The Winter Season
ith drastic temperature changes
throughout the day and the winter season upon us, the flu is in the
air. Knowing the facts and taking proper
precautionary measures can save you from
a lot of aches and pains along the way. Keep
yourself informed to ensure a flu-free and
fun-fillled winter.
Flu is caused by the influenza virus,
which infects the respiratory tract consisted
of the nose, throat and lungs. Because the
virus is airborne, it spreads when an infected person coughs, sneezes or even talks.
Although the common cold is also a viral
respiratory infection, the flu tends to cause
severe illness in many people, usually due
to secondary complications such as pneumonia. According to the American Lung
Association, the flu and pneumonia are the
sixth leading cause of death in the US.
Common flu symptoms include, fever,
headache, dizziness, extreme fatigue,
coughing, soar throat, stuffy or runny nose,
and muscle aches. Children tend to have
additional gastro-intestinal symptoms such
as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, which
are relatively uncommon amongst adults.1
The best way to prevent the flu is the flu
shot. Nowadays, flu shots are recommended to everyone including children due to
their effectiveness and minimal side effects.
There are now antiviral medications available with prescription to treat the flu.
However, prevention is still the best and
most effective method of treatment.
Because of their airborne nature, it is dif-
W
20
The Lakelands Leader
ficult to shield yourself from catching the
cold or flu viruses. It has been estimated
that a sneeze can travel as rapidly as 100
miles per hour! However the Food and
Drug Administration does offer the following list of prevention tips to help guard
against contracting these illnesses:
■ Wash your hands often. Door knobs
and handles can contain germs, especially during the flu season when the
viruses are running rampant.
■ Avoid friends or coworkers with a cold
or flu (without making them feel
insulted.)
■ If you sneeze of cough, use a tissue and
throw it away.
■ Clean surfaces with a germ-killing disinfectant.
■ Stay healthy! Eating a good balanced
diet, exercising regularly and getting
sufficient sleep will help bolster your
immune system to fight off germs.
Some research has shown taking Vitamin
C & Echinacea to be helpful in prevention
or lessening the symptoms. We also recommend having some SP Carekit Cold formula readily available. Many of our customers
take it as an immune system booster during
the cold season or when surrounded with
people already ill with cold or flu.
Tips courtesy of the Center for Disease
Control
January 2004
Send Your Pup To School
Pet
S
Pointers
ince the kids are out of school for winter break it is an opportune time to
work on school for our canine companions. Just as our children need to attend
school, all dogs should have some basic
training. Basic obedience training is an
important component of being a dog
owner.
Setting a baseline of good behavior for
your dog is particularly important if you
want to rule your home and not be ruled by
your dog! Consistency is imperative so the
entire family must agree on what the basic
guidelines are before starting any obedience program. If you do not want your dog
to jump on the table then everyone must
agree that this behavior is never appropriate.
The best time to begin training your dog
is when they are a young puppy. However,
this is not always possible and owners with
older dogs should not be discouraged from
training their pet. Older dogs may have
already developed undesirable habits that
will need to be broken during the training
phase.
There are many different methods of
obedience training, but we will focus on the
use of praise and positive reinforcement. This method is similar to
receiving payment for a job
well done! In general, it is
thought that positive
reinforcement is
a more powerful
and
long lasting
method of training
than other methods.
Positive reinforcement should be offered
after your dog has done
the appropriate task.
The
reinforcement
should not be used as a
bribe to get them to perform the task.
So, if you ask your
dog to sit and he sits you
might reward him.
Whereas if you have to
give him a food reward
prior to sitting in order
to get him to sit, you would be bribing
him.
A food reward can be used, but only
small amounts of food are necessary. Some
examples of appropriate food rewards are
tiny pieces of cheese or small pieces of biscuits. It can take many tries to teach one
command.
After your dog has mastered a given task
it may not be necessary to reward them
with each successive completion. Verbal
praise should also be offered to your pet so
that she does not expect food at the completion of every command.
When teaching your dog to perform a
specific task you must be consistent in how
you ask for this to be done. So, if you want
your dog to “come”, then consistently use
the word “come” when trying to teach this
task.
If you say “come” sometimes and “come
over” at other times it is likely to confuse
your dog. If you issue the command the
same way each time your dog will not get as
confused and may learn faster.
Remember to make sure that your commands are distinct from one another so
that there is no confusion about what you
are requesting from your pet. It is also a
January 2004
By Dr. David
Handel, DVM
good idea to use your dog’s name when
practicing a command.
Do not think that training will be easy.
You should start by working with your dog
for no more than 15 minutes at a session or
both you and your pet will get frustrated.
Varying the location of your training sessions is important so that your pet will
learn to obey you regardless of where you
are.
If you always practice sitting in the
kitchen, your dog may not learn to sit anywhere else! Multiple short sessions,
throughout the day, will best help your pet
accomplish the goals you set out for her.
For many new dog owners it may be
helpful to seek the guidance
of a professional trainer.
Training classes not
only teach commands, but also
offer socialization skills for your dog.
Before settling on a class you may wish to
interview the trainer and observe them in a
class setting to see if your goals and ideals
match their training philosophy.
Your veterinarian is often a valuable
resource when you have training questions
or problems. If you are having specific
training or behavioral problems, your veterinarian may be able to suggest some
training techniques or other behavioral
modification methods.
Obedience training should not be viewed
as punishment. Instead, it should be a
learning experience for both owner and
pet.
Your dog is a valuable member of your
family and the ability to communicate with
her and elicit an appropriate response, on a
routine basis, is extremely important for
both safety and enjoyment.
Dr. David Handel is a doctor of veterinary
medicine and owner of the Kentlands
Veterinary Hospital on Booth Street in
Kentlands.
The Lakelands Leader
21
communityclassifieds
FOR SALE:
FOR SALE: Solid wood oak desk. $100. Call Lori
@ 301 926-7577.
SINGER SEWING MACHINE: Great machine for a
beginner or someone who wants to do simple
projects. Includes sewing cabinet/table. Asking
$25. Interested? Email [email protected]
KITCHEN TABLE: Beautiful solid cherry table with
6 chairs. Excellent condition. Purchased at
Storehouse. $450 OBO. Call Dan or Julie: 301208-1870.
COUCHES: Three matching couches for sale. One
three person couch, one love seat and one arm
chair. Excellent condition. Purchased only 2
years ago. $350 OBO. Call Dan or Julie: 301-2081870.
APPLE G3 LAPTOP: 500mgh, 384meg ram. DVD
player, Panther OSX o whatever you want. Tons
of software, Orig. box perfect condition, $1000.
Call: 301-987-9154.
22
DESKTOP
COMPUTER:
To advertise in the Lakelands Leader, please call
301-519-1678 or e-mail [email protected]
G4
Professional Directory
POWERMAC
The Lakelands Leader
400mgh, 768meg ram. 2-120gig HDs,
PantherOSX, tons of software, 17” apple studio
display, orig boxes. $800. Will deliver. Contact
301-987-9145.
MINIVAN: 2000 TOYOTA SIENNA XLE: 34,700
miles. Spruce with tan leather interior. ABS,
power seats, AM/FM/Cassette/6-disc CD changer, A/C, cruise, power windows/locks, alloy
wheels, roof rack. $17,995. Call 301-869-0268.
FOR RENT:
CROSS GREEN STREET UNIT: 2 bedrooms, 2.5
baths end unit condo-townhouse with attached
garage, located on Cross Green Street courtyard,
loaded with upgrades. Available Jan 2004,
$1,775 a month. Contact 301-380-6954 or 301869-9480.
REHOBOTH BEACH, DELAWARE: Beautiful one
bedroom apartment for rent, fully furnished, 2
blocks from beach, and in the heart of town.
Includes private covered parking. Adults only,
special price $900.00 per week, contact Michelle
or Tim before January 31, 2004 at 301-926-5917.
REHOBOTH
BEACH,
SUMMER RENTAL:
Beautiful, brand new, 3-level carriage house
located in a quiet, new community (adjacent to
Helopen Acres). Large neighborhood swimming
pool, two master bedrooms, three additional
bedrooms, four full baths, kitchen/great room
with many upgrades and large screened porch.
Ideal for one family or two – sleeps up to twelve.
Families only, NO PETS and NO SMOKING!
$2,600/week plus security deposit. Call 301908-3354.
SERVICES
AVAILABLE/NEEDED:
BABYSITTER NEEDED: For 6-year old
boy Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 3:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. Would like someone who can assist
with homework. Salary commensurate with
experience. If interested call Nancy at (301) 2162443. Willing to share babysitters with another
first or second grade boy.
ROOMMATE WANTED ASAP: To share 3 bed-
room condo with one other person in Lakelands.
Can’t pass up the features and location; must see
for yourself!!! Male preferred, smoking and pets
not allowed, unfurnished bedroom with private
bath Rent: $700/month Deposit: $TBD, Lease: 6
months. Kitchen: full privileges. Laundry: washer
and dryer on bedroom (3rd) level. Utilities/cable:
shared. Telephone: can establish separate line,
balcony. Contact Karrie at 301-208-9521 or [email protected]
MUSIC ANYONE? Anyone interested in starting a
garage band for informal jam sessions? I play
drums and prefer rock or jazz music. Call Jim @
240 683-5704.
GARAGE WANTED: We are looking for extra
garage space large enough for one car if available. Please contact Michelle and Tim Clarke at
301-926-5917.
NANNY WANTED: A caring, experienced nanny
wanted to look after a newborn from early April,
three or four days a week. Competitive pay. Also
willing to look into the possibility of nanny sharing
with fellow Kentlands/Lakelands residents. Contact
Brian or Shihoko O’Looney at 301-947-3596.
Who’s News,
Classifieds, Advertise
Contact the Lakelands Leader to include your
community news. Deadline for the February
issue is January 15th.
Email: [email protected]
or call Andrea at 301-519-1678.
January 2004
To advertise in the Lakelands Leader, please call
301 519-1678 or e-mail [email protected]
Professional Directory
January 2004
Psychotherapy Services
Adults & Couples • Individual Therapy
Marital Therapy • Anxiety/Depression
Changing Dysfunctional Family Patterns
Trauma Recovery • Divorce Recovery • EMDR
Offered by:
Suzanne Y. Corcoran, L.C.S.W., Certified Imago Therapist
1107 Nelson Street, Suite 204 Rockville, Maryland 20850
(301) 590-0204
The Lakelands Leader
23
Lakelands Living
photos by Andrea Escher
And the Winners Are…
Honoring the Holiday House Decorators
Above, Grand Prize Winner, the Lawrence’s at
445 Lynette Street.
By Andrea Escher
tradition has begun in Lakelands,
the annual Holiday House
Decorating
Contest!
Every
December residents from all over the
community take time out of their busy
schedules to beautify their homes for the
holidays. Hanging wreaths, bushes and
fences dawned in lights, candles in windows, front doors wrapped as presents
with bows…signs that signify the spirit
of the holidays is alive and flourishing in
Lakelands.
A
At top, Honorable Mention winner, the Frey’s at 520 Market Street East
Above, Honorable Mention winner, the Perrelli’s at 497 Danbridge Street
24
The Lakelands Leader
At top, Grand Prize Winner, the Anderson’s at 706 Market Street East
Above, Grand Prize Winner, the Bowie’s at 545 Sheila Street.
While we wish we could award each
and every homeowner who decorates a
prize, only a few can be declared the
winners of the House Decorating
Contest. And the three grand prize winners are:
Hiram & Rose Lawrence
445 Lynette Street
Richard Bowie
545 Sheila Street
Christopher & Karen Anderson
706 Market Street East
Each of these award-winning homes
will be receiving a gift certificate to
Lowes Home Improvement store in
Kentlands courtesy of the Lakelands
Community Association. In addition,
three homes were declared Honorable
Mentions during the contest.
We congratulate all the winners, all the
residents who decorated and most
importantly we hope everyone had a
happy holiday and a safe, healthy New
Year.
Honorable Mention winner, the Moon’s at 444 Lynette Street
January 2004