January 2016

Transcription

January 2016

JANUARY 2016 n www.KentlandsUSA.com
How Big A Mess?
By Barney Gorin
Kentlands is a beautiful place. It’s beautiful by design, by population, and by
maintenance. Most of us take good or better care of our homes and the surrounding
area simply because we want to, but… trash is still a problem that is obvious to anyone
walking in or near our wetlands and alleys.
Why?
Issue One: not putting out the trash in a solid container.
There are reasons why we are asked to use a hard container with a latching lid. Among
those reasons are crows, foxes, and rats. When garbage, that is to say trash with food
or food residue, is put outside in no more than a plastic trash bag, the critters can get
at it, will get at it, and do make a mess.
Are hard sided cans with good lids
all that’s needed? Well, not quite. All
trash has to be in bags to contain it,
the bags must go into the can, and the
can’s lid must be firmly in place to
Aerial photo proving that trash bags
keep our community clean. Based on
just aren’t reliable or adequate
this picture, taken Saturday, January 9,
2016, not all trash handling manages to achieve that goal. As it happens, these
cans, and the debris around them, are at the other corner of the garage in the
picture above.
The wetlands behind this particular alley tend to have a of lot trash in them a lot of the
time. Why is not really a mystery.
How big a mess? Well, Google Earth tells me that it can be seen from space (that is
Kentlands and a location where folks seem to have a continuing problem keeping their
alley clean, in no small part because of an unprotected plastic bag or two).
PLEASE use hard sided containers with locking lids for your garbage! If saying please
isn’t enough reason, there are two more: the Kentlands Citizens Assembly trash
contractor will not pick-up any trash that is not in a proper container in the future;
and the Board of Code Compliance is charged with enforcing the rules about trash,
with fines if necessary.
A picture speaks a thousand words... how careless trash disposal injured Mae West the turtle
Inside...
CONTINUED ON PAGE 13…
Volunteering is a Great New Year Resolution
Permit #5139
Gaithersburg
MD
PRSRT-STD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
By Karen Norris
Volunteer Open House
7–9pm, February 18 at Clubhouse,
Be There!
Kentlands Clubhouse
485 Tschiffely Square Rd.
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
There are several ways residents can take
an active role in the community, and
one very important role is to participate
through volunteer opportunities. In the
past, Kentlands has enjoyed a very positive response from its many engaged residents, and the Kentlands Citizens Assembly (KCA) hopes to continue the trend for
2016. A little coaxing with good food and
drink (the Kentlands way) at the upcoming Feb. 18 volunteer open house may
help get things started.
Opportunities to volunteer include
serving on a committee or even on the
Board of Trustees. “The KCA needs
volunteers,” explained Board President
Barney Gorin. With a term appointment
that generally lasts two years, there is
always a turnover of volunteers, and the
call for new volunteers has become an
annual process.
“We have an election coming up in the
fall,” Gorin mentioned, “and we need
two things: people to run for office and
an election committee.” The election
committee term appointment, by the way,
lasts only one year.
There are several committees, some of
which are standing and others ad hoc.
These include:
• Kentlands Historical Trust, which
approves all architectural changes;
• Board of Code Compliance, to help
enforce the rules and standards;
• Election Committee, which helps
supervise the election and ensure that
information is sent out on time to the
community;
Kentlands Events. ...................................4
Clubhouse Reminders...............................4
City News...............................................5
From the President..................................6
Manager’s Corner. .................................6
Parking in the Mews................................6
From the Treasurer..................................7
From the Chairman.................................7
BOCC January Focus:
Windows and General
Outside Condition of Home..............9
Arts on the Green.................................10
K25 to Host Formal
Gala Celebration. ..............................11
Spotlight on Business:
Dance Dance Dance (Studio Booseh)
My Big Finds. ....................................12
Kentlands Historical Trust....................14
Light Bulbs Just Got
More Complicated..............................15
Kentlands Real Estate Listings................16
Kentlands Classifieds.............................16
JANUARY 2016 n www.kentlandsusa.com 2
Kentlands Town Crier
Kentlands Town Crier 3
www.kentlandsusa.com n JANUARY 2016
K E N T TownCrier
LANDS
Kentlands Events February 2016
EDITOR AND ADVERTISING MANAGER
Dana Macena
301.948.2071
[email protected]
KENTLANDS CITIZENS ASSEMBLY
President
All meetings will take place in the Clubhouse unless otherwise noted.
KCA Committee Meetings
February 3
Activities Committee, 6–8pm
February 11
Board of Code Compliance, 6:30–9pm
[email protected]
February 24
KCA Board of Trustees, 7:30–10:00pm
Chair
Chris Campbell
KCA Events
Vice Chair
Rob Garretson
February 12
Happy Hour, 5:30–7:30pm
Treasurer
Robert Randolph
February 18
Volunteer Open House I, 7–9pm
[email protected]
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Secretary
Glen Palman
Trustee
Ty Hardaway
Staff Writers
Karen Norris
Tamar Rhode
Rock & Blues Group at the Carriage House,
1–4pm
February 23
Acoustic Jam, 6–9pm
February 26
Needle Arts, 9am–12pm
February 28
Kingfish Interviews, 11am–5pm
Kentlands Historical Trust, 6:30–9pm
February 10
Barney Gorin
February 20
Important Dates
February 4
City Bulk Trash Pick-Up, 7am–2pm
February 10
Town Architect’s Open Hours, 5–6pm
*By Appointment Only.*
February 15
Clubhouse & Carriage House Opens, 9am
Social/Interest Groups
February 2
Acoustic Jam, 6–9pm
February 4
Garden Club, 7–9pm
February 5
February 6
CMC Office Closed
February 19
Visual Change Applications Due, 9am–5pm
Condo Meetings
February 17
View Condo Meeting, 7–9pm
Young Artist Awards, 9am–5pm
February 23
Kentlands Ridge Condo Meeting, 7–9pm
February 9
Kentlands Community Foundation Meeting,
7:30–9pm
February 25
Kentlands Condo Meeting, 7–9pm
The Kentlands Town Crier is the primary regularlypublished means of communicating information
of interest to Kentlands citizens. It is published
by the Board of Trustees, which is responsible for
the form, content, and policies of the newspaper.
The newspaper addresses items of legitimate
interest to the Kentlands Citizens Assembly.
It does not espouse any political belief
or endorse any product or service.
February 10
Villages Meeting, 3–4:30pm
February 12
February 13
Rock & Blues Group at the Carriage House,
1–4pm
February 15
Go Green Meeting, 7–9pm
Articles submitted for publication must be signed
and may not be libelous. Letters may be published
as space permits. Articles and letters may be
edited for length and content. The deadline for
submitting articles will be the last day of the
month. Articles may be either dropped at the
Clubhouse, faxed to 301.948.9730, or mailed to:
February 16
K25 Meeting, 7–9pm
February 19
Staff Photographers
Tom Marchessault
Debbie Boderman
EDITORIAL POLICY:
c/o The Kentlands Clubhouse
485 Tschiffely Square Road
REGARDING ADVERTISEMENTS
IN THE NEWSPAPER:
The Kentlands Board of Trustees of the
Kentlands Citizens Assembly does not endorse
the products or services advertised herein,
ensure the correctness of advertisements
contained herein, nor is it responsible for
any claims made by the advertisers herein.
The Kentlands Town Crier reserves the right
to edit, reject, or cancel any advertisement
at any time. The Kentlands Classifieds will not
post any professional or commercial advertising.
DESIGN AND LAYOUT
Anne-Marie Thomas • 301.602.4367
AnyArt Studios LLC • AnyArtStudios.com
© Copyright 2016, Kentlands Citizens Assembly.
All Rights Reserved.
JANUARY 2016 n www.kentlandsusa.com Clubhouse Reminders
Happy Hour
on February 12, from 5:30–7:30pm
are entitled to all pertinent information
relating to the Association, and you are
responsible for notifying CMC of address
changes.
2016 Assessment Coupon Books
You should have already received your
coupon books for 2016. You will not
receive a coupon book if you are on
automatic debit. The 2016 monthly
assessment fee for townhomes and single
family homes is $136.49.
Residents of individual condominium
associations will need to contact their
management company regarding 2016
coupon books.
If you have not received a coupon book,
please contact Community Management
Corporation (CMC) at 703.631.7200 and
speak with Customer Service.
It’s never too early to get your paperwork
in for the annual renewal of Facilities
Passes. We will begin updating passes in
late February/early March of 2016. In order to expedite the process, please be sure
that your HOA fees are current. If you are
leasing your home here in the Kentlands,
we require a copy of your current lease. If your lease has expired, and are leasing on a month to month basis, a completed Month to Month Lease Verification
Updating Facilities Passes In 2016
Please be reminded to notify CMC via
e-mail at [email protected]
or via fax at 703.631.9786, if you relocate but do not sell your home. Providing us with this information is vital and
required because as a homeowner, you
4
form is required and is available on our
website at www.Kentlandsusa.com. Renters must provide either a valid lease
or completed verification form in order
to renew facilities passes in 2016. Please
note that all residents residing in a dwelling must be listed on the lease and
corresponding verification. Please forward leases and completed
verification forms to Francine Lowenstein
at [email protected].
Also of note, all residents’ children age
25 and older must provide a driver’s
license or current change of address
card from the Maryland Department of
Motor Vehicles, that reflects their Kentlands address. No other form of residency
verification will be accepted.
Public Input Sought on
Griffith Park Playground
wanted to help others feel what she felt
when viewing the artwork. She began
drawing in pencil at age seven, and
at twelve, she was working with oils.
While Brooks has tried other mediums over the years, she recognized that oils were her one true love. It is a medium
with great flexibility and life that speaks deeply to her. More of her work may be
found here.
The City of Gaithersburg is seeking public
input on replacement playground equipment at Griffith Park at City Hall. A community meeting is scheduled for Wednesday,
January 27, 2016, at 7:30pm in the Second Floor Gallery at City Hall, 31 S. Summit
Avenue in Olde Towne, Gaithersburg.
Named for former Mayor John W. Griffith, Griffith Park at City Hall sits on nearly eight
acres of land. Amenities include basketball and tennis courts, a picnic pavilion, an
open field, a 1/2 mile pathway, and a playground with swings, a train and various
climbing pieces. The existing equipment dates to the late 1990’s and is scheduled for
replacement.
“For as long as I can remember, I’ve always wanted to be an artist,” says James E.
Murphy, Jr. as he recalls his 4th year in grade school, a pivotal point in his life when
he decided to pursue his passion for art. Murphy attended the Baltimore School for
the Arts High School and the Maryland Institute College of Arts, where he received
a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Visual Communication. After college, he began
his art career as a freelance illustrator completing illustrations and designs for numerous clientele including Physical Therapy Today Magazine and Umoja Children
Greeting Cards. Today, Murphy’s focus is on his fine art drawings, paintings and reproductions, which he distributes through his own company, Something For Your
Soul Fine Arts. His list of accomplishments continues to grow as his art has been
featured in various exhibits, numerous art shows and festivals and on Baltimore’s
WJZ-TV Channel 13. Murphy sums up his work by simply stating, “I am a husband and a father, a man of faith as well as a man of color; it is these experiences
that I seek to explore and express in my art.” More of his work may be found at
www.somethingforyoursoul.com.
Gaithersburg was awarded $66,000 for this purpose through the Maryland
Department of Natural Resources Program Open Space—Community Parks and Playgrounds Program. At the January 27 meeting, staff will present details about the project
and solicit feedback from the public on possible replacement pieces. Designs will
then be presented at subsequent meetings, with public voting ultimately helping to
determine the final selection. It is anticipated that the park will be ready for a grand
reopening in the fall of 2016.
For more information on the public meetings and the replacement project please visit
www.gaithersburgmd.gov or contact the Department of Parks, Recreation and Culture
at 301.258.6350.
The deep water well at the Gaithersburg Aquatic Center is now open for deep water
recreation on select weekday evenings. “Several patrons of the Aquatic Center asked
us to consider opening the well so they could use it for recreational and therapeutic
purposes,” said Aquatic Superintendent Jen Mogus. “We were happy to explore a way
to work those requests into our schedule.”
Rodney Sikdar was born 1989 in West Africa. His artistic skills were noticed as early as
the age of five when he started drawing and molding with clay. By nine, he realized he
had gifted artistic hands and worked on his art continuously on his own, developing
his skills in both drawing and painting. In 2007, he had the opportunity to participate
in a 40-hour intensive visual arts course sponsored by the International Research Institute of Africana Heritage and was awarded a certificate. His work has been displayed
in prestigious exhibits in Monrovia, Liberia, including a historic exhibit regarding the
Ebola crisis. Sikdar is a member of the Liberian Professional Painters Organization. This is his first exhibit since arriving in the United States.
Diving from boards and jumping from the sides will be prohibited during these
sessions, allowing swimmers and those engaged in water exercise to enjoy the well
safely. Patrons are responsible for bringing any equipment they would like to use
during these open sessions.
Please note that all images are copyrighted by the artists and most of the
artwork is for sale. For more information please contact Shellie Williams at
301.258.6394, [email protected], or Andi Rosati at 301.258.6350,
[email protected].
The deep water well is available for open swim Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays
during Family Recreational Swim, 6:30pm to 7:30pm. During all other Family
Recreational Swim times it will be open for diving board use only.
Gaithersburg Aquatic Center Offers Deep Water Open Swim
Z Yoga Classes
The Gaithersburg Aquatic Center is owned by Montgomery County Public Schools
and operated by the City of Gaithersburg after school and when school is out of session. It is located adjacent to Gaithersburg Middle School at 2 Teachers Way. The
Center features six 25-yard lap lanes, two diving boards, an outdoor patio, full-size
lockers, and a shallow-water “teach pool.” It is open evenings and weekends for lap
and recreational swimming and also hosts swim lessons and water exercise classes.
For information call 301.258.6445 or visit www.gaithersburgmd.gov.
Z Yoga Classes
@ the Kentlands Carriage House
321 Kent Square Road, Gaithersburg
12 week session
“Heritage” Exhibit features African American
Artwork on Display at Gaithersburg Activity Center
Tuedays January 5- March 22
Fridays January 8- March 25
In celebration of African American History Month, the City of Gaithersburg presents
“Heritage,” an exhibit featuring the artwork of Dorothy Brooks, James E. Murphy, Jr.
and Rodney Sikdar, on display through February 21, 2016, at the Activity Center at
Bohrer Park, 506 South Frederick Avenue, Gaithersburg, Maryland. Viewing hours are
Monday through Saturday from 8am to 9pm. and Sunday from 8am to 5pm.
Tuesdays
9:15-10:15 am
Yoga Flow/ Mixed Level
Start with a mindfulness practice followed by yoga asanas for balance,
focus and strength.
Fridays
5:45-6:45 am
Sunrise Yoga/ Mixed Level
Energize your morning with a bit of mindfulness practice followed by
Dorothy Brooks was born in Washington State, a place she considers one of the most
beautiful places in the continental United States. Most of her formative years were
spent growing up on the East Coast, during a time when the diversity of life and culture changed at a very fast pace. Brooks began her fascination with art at an early
age during a class trip to the National Museum of Art. While standing in the corridor, she was so overwhelmed with a multitude of feelings she decided there was
only one thing important enough to become in her life and that was an artist. Brooks
Kentlands Town Crier asanas for balance, focus and strength.
For more information
at 202.360.7166
for pricing.
Cost:contact
$216 Alex
one Stavitsky-Zeineddin
class, take 2 classes
for $416
Drop in: $20 per class
5
MANAGER’S
Beth Brittingham,
General Manager
Barney Gorin
A Hidden Gem
Corner...
Well, it’s getting to be that time of the year again. What time is that you ask?
Snow time.
One of the things that is great about Kentlands (ok … in my opinion) is that we
have access to a number of gems that are hiding in plain sight. The Carriage House,
tucked between the Arts Barn and a private home is among these.
As someone who moved to South Carolina in 2012 after 37 years on the Eastern
Shore, I never thought I would be saying that again. As a symbolic gesture, when I
moved, I donated all but one thin coat to charity as I was told that it only got below
freezing about a half dozen nights. This turned out to be true. It was very unusual
living somewhere where they don’t winterize irrigation or shut down the pools.
Although it wasn’t warm enough to swim every day, many people would sit by the
pool on nice days, all winter long.
As you may have noticed, our snow removal provider has placed “snow stakes”
throughout the community. This is to keep the plows away from the fire hydrants, inlets drains, etc. in the event the snow piles up over a period of time to the point that
these parts of the infrastructure can’t be seen. We ended up with a plow in a ditch
on the side of the road in a community I managed in Delaware because it snowed
so much the ditch leveled out with the roadway.
At the risk of repeating information that has been previously published in the
Express, the Kentlands Citizens Assembly is responsible for removing snow from
KCA owned property such as the mews, areas around the Clubhouse, and common area walkways throughout the community. The KCA is not responsible for city
owned streets, areas that directly abut condominiums or parking areas in the shopping centers. If you are in doubt as to whose responsibility a certain area is, please
feel free to call the Clubhouse at 301.948.2071 during business hours to inquire or
e-mail me at [email protected].
The Carriage House belongs to the Kentlands Citizens Assembly (KCA) and has for
a score of years or so. If memory serves, the KCA bought it from Great Seneca
Development for $65,000 on the general theory that it would be very useful, albeit
for what was not defined at the time.
Availability has gotten to be a bit tricky over two decades because the “useful”
theory has turned out to be very true. A number of organizations such as the Bridge
Club and the E-Communications Working Group use “the right side” of the Carriage
House (as shown in this picture) for their meetings and “the left side” houses the
Kentlands Community Foundation’s (KCF) offices and the KCF’s archive of Kentlands
historical material.
Homeowners are responsible for shoveling the sidewalks adjacent to their homes
within 12 hours of the last snowfall or freeze, per the Municipal Code for the City of
Gaithersburg. If you’re unable to do that, please call the Clubhouse at the number
above and the staff will be happy to give you contact information for volunteers
willing to shovel. The KCA snow removal provider will begin to plow when the
accumulation reaches 2”.
While the KCF’s archive is the majority of the historical material in the Carriage
House, there is some on the “right side” as well. There is a large overhead photo that
shows where Kentlands was to be built circa 1988. Quince Orchard Park is clearly
Speaking of the Express, if you are receiving the Town Crier (mailed) but
not the Express (e-mailed), please e-mail your name and address, along
with your e-mail address if different from the one you’re e-mailing from, to
[email protected]. The Express, which is e-mailed bi-monthly, along
with other important e-mail blasts, is how the Association leaders and management
communicate with homeowners, especially when information is time sensitive or
urgent. While NextDoor is a great vehicle for homeowners in need of vendor referrals or to advertise their services, it is not the official means of communication for
the KCA. Please call the Clubhouse or e-mail me directly with concerns, questions,
and suggestions regarding Association issues.
PARKING IN THE MEWS
Happy New Year! n
visible to the bottom left of the undeveloped area, the historical buildings, including the Carriage House, that are now so familiar in Old Farm show up just to the
The Kentlands Citizens Assembly (KCA) would like to remind all Kentlands
residents that parking in the mews is not permitted. We have received
numerous complaints about vehicles parking in and blocking the mews.
Please keep in mind that any vehicle parked in the mews not only hinders the everyday activities of other residents but also the trash companies,
snow plows, and emergency vehicles providing services to our community.
‘No Parking’ signs are posted at the beginning of each mews to help raise
awareness of the consequences of parking in the mews. Residents found
parking in the mews for a first time will receive a friendly warning. If the
vehicle is found parking in the mews again, the resident will receive a written notice giving 48 hours to have the vehicle removed or the vehicle will
be towed at the owner’s expense. The KCA kindly asks all residents and their
guests, relatives, visitors, etc. to abide by the KCA parking policy. n
BFAC Update
Protect Your Pipes!
The KCA welcomes three new members to the Budget and Finance Advisory Committee: Ade Alli, Greg Cohen, and Ken Quittman. They bring a mix of relevant professional skills and personal perspectives, which will be valuable in accomplishing
the committee’s varied functions and representing diverse Kentlands constituencies.
Gentlemen: It’s good to have each of you on board, and thanks for stepping forward!!
Many of you live in homes that have fire retardant sprinkler systems. Specifically, all
townhouses, condominiums and the live / work townhomes (60% of the residences in
the Kentlands) are required to have functioning “suppression” systems.
In addition, those of you who live in single family homes have exterior spigots.
Regardless of the type of your home, we all have the same problem—very cold
temperatures are not friendly to our pipes and the water that runs through them!
The committee’s role, as spelled out in Administrative Resolution 20, is important
and complex--never boring!--but from experience, it is not particularly difficult and
does not need to be extremely time consuming. It includes reviewing and discussing
KCA financial documents and identifying any issues for attention by the KCA Board,
President, or staff. Such documents include the monthly CMC Financial Reports, the
annual Replacement Reserve Study, and the annual Audit Report. On request, the
BFAC also provides analyses of fiscal implications of policy options being considered
by the Board, and recommends strategies for investment of KCA reserve funds. The
BFAC is closely involved in the annual KCA budget process, reviewing drafts for accuracy, clarity, compliance with Board decisions, and fiscal implications, and ultimately
offering budget recommendations to the Board.
Over the past two winters, as the temperatures have approached the teens and single
digits, the Kentlands has seen a number of pipe ruptures. These ruptures are always a
huge deal! The financial costs and personal property loss are very high. Please make
sure your homeowners or condo insurance policies are up to date.
The past two years, sprinkler pipe ruptures have been especially expensive for several
of our condo associations. Condo associations have discovered that their builders did
not always ensure proper insulation for sprinkler pipes located in garages, attic or dormer spaces, and along external walls (specifically to feed the sprinkler over a deck).
Single family home owners have also seen significant damage due to cracked pipes
feeding external spigots.
KCA Finances in Context
As we finally hit a true stretch of cold temperatures and the first snow is likely coming,
there are things you can do to help prevent these pipe ruptures….
At the turning of the year, it seems timely to review KCA’s fiscal results in 2015,
budgeted expectations for 2016, and for background, to include data from 2013–2014
as well. The table below summarizes the results.
(1) If you own an attic or dormer space, please make sure the pipes and the space is
adequately insulated. If you live in a condo, please speak with your condominium’s management company or board. The Kentlands Clubhouse management staff
is not the first point of contact for all condominiums. Contact information for the
different condo associations can be found on the www.KentlandsUSA.com website under the tab ‘Condo Associations’.
As can be seen, KCA’s reserves are projected to be at a relatively low point at the end
of 2015, though still very substantial, and to begin a healthy recovery in 2016. Total
Income has risen to cover increased costs, especially for transfers to reserve funds,
but there have been savings in some other areas, such as Administrative and Recreation Center Expenses, and Other Expenses (which in some years have been higher
than usual because in those years “Other Expenses” included Contributions to Prior
Year Equity). While net income has been negative in some years, especially 2015,
it is reassuring to note that KCA ran a substantial surplus in 2013, and incidentally
also in 2010–2012 (ranging from $3,268 to $159,732). So there is good reason to be
optimistic about the future.
2013201420152016
Year End Year End Year End Year End
BALANCE SHEET
Actual
Actual Projected Projected
Unappropriated Owners’ Equity
333,947 424,027 383,112 382,372
Titleholder Contribution
446,825 491,283 501,085 508,085
General Reserves
846,516 294,903 650,800 862,307
Recreation Facilities Reserves
723,666 776,081 170,242 308,456
Capital Reserves
39,573 67,892 109,643 150,403
Total Reserves
2,390,527 2,054,185 1,814,882 2,211,623
(2) Please make sure all of your pipes along “outer walls” reside in appropriate insulation. The insulation should
be between your pipe and the
outside wall of your home. Often, the insulation is installed
between the drywall and the
pipes, exposing the pipes to the
external elements. This is wrong
and often the fault of the builder.
If you or your condo association
has experienced ruptures, it is
worth it to inspect the insulation around your pipes.
(3) Find out if you have frost-proof spigots. The frost proof ones withstand the elements
a lot better than the non-frost proof ones.
(4) Do not forget the sprinklers and pipes in your garage! You should maintain a
sufficient temperature in the garage to prevent the pipes from freezing. There are
four ways to help with this. Ultimately, if your pipes are not properly insulated, you
need to add insulation.
Full Year Full Year Full Year Full Year
INCOME STATEMENT Actual
Actual Projected Budget
Assessment Income
1,823,134 1,854,384 2,000,768 2,256,417
Other Income
163,023 142,794 146,145 138,864
Total Income
1,986,158 1,997,179 2,146,914 2,395,281
Administrative
82,124 64,066 67,502 69,235
Publications and Communications
40,701 41,756 50,499 46,300
Local Expenses (Water Service,
SF & TH Trash)
118,944 119,955 123,617 126,679
Maintenance & Services
281,988 358,039 488,273 401,032
Recreation Center Expenses
492,429 459,837 455,237 376,774
Professional Services
496,825 532,639 550,914 550,006
Taxes & Insurance
47,621 46,361 57,436 58,134
Other Expenses (Bad Debt, Contrib.
to Prior Year Equity)
46,658 19,478 500 3,000
Total Transfers to Reserves Funds
299,853 427,576 540,512 764,771
Total Expense
1,907,142 2,069,708 2,334,490 2,395,931
Net Income/(Loss)
79,015 (72,529) (200,160)
•CLOSE YOUR GARAGE DOOR—It sounds simple, but I have noticed how
quickly the temperature in my garage drops when the garage door is open. Even
if you are outside shoveling snow, playing with the kids, or out walking the dog,
that 5–10 minutes the garage door remains open in freezing temperature can put
your pipes at risk. If you do not have a garage key pad, just carry your garage
door opener in your pocket and keep the garage closed and insulated.
• Install a temperature gage in the garage. Some newer garage door openers come
with a thermometer.
• Insulate your garage door—many condos are built with very simple garage
doors that leak a substantial amount of air. You can purchase simple garage
door insulation kits at Lowes, Home Depot, and Amazon.
• Heat your garage—there are always concerns when using a heating element in
a garage. It must be done appropriately, but there are ways to do it safely.
It is never too late to take precautions to protect your pipes! If the insulation around
your pipes is installed improperly, you will need to fix that long term, but making sure
your pipes are properly taken care of in the cold regions of your home will pay off in
the long run. n
(740)
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1…
call the Clubhouse at 301.948.2071 and ask for Francine Lowenstein, or send an
email to [email protected] to have your name added to this year’s
volunteer snow removal list. This act of kindness may even be eligible for high school
community service credit. KCA greatly appreciates anyone willing to volunteer time
and effort to this great neighborhood initiative. n
Volunteering is a Great New Year Resolution
• Budget and Finance Advisory Committee, which works with the Board Treasurer
and is quite busy from February through June, when the draft budget is being
compiled;
• Welcoming Committee that plans and implements welcome receptions for new
residents, a nice Kentlands tradition;
BOCC January Focus: Windows and
General Outside Condition of Home
• Activities Committee, to ensure that underserved demographics are included in
social activities in the community, which includes popular movie nights, happy
hours, holiday parties throughout the year and more; and
• E-Communications Committee that plays a vital role in developing the Kentlands
website and communications strategies for the community.
In addition, the following two committees worked together with staff and leadership
to release the recent Request for Proposal (RFP) for a new landscaping contractor and
select a preferred vendor for approval by the Board of Trustees. Because of the dollars
involved, “it was a significant responsibility,” Gorin added.
The Kentlands Board of Code Compliance suggests that titleholders inspect all outside
window frames and observe the general outside condition of the home.
Look especially for peeling paint or discolored siding, shutters, damaged gutters, rotted wood window frames, loose or missing shingles and damaged doors (including
garage doors) and frames. Also check the condition of all fences as to rot, discoloration, missing boards/pickets etc. Kindly ensure that all Muntins (window grids) are
in place.
• Environmental Management Committee that addresses general landscaping around
the Kentlands; and
• Turf Management Group, which is focused on organic initiatives, reducing
community reliance on chemical treatments.
“The people who give of themselves to work on committees contribute greatly to
the quality of life in the Kentlands,” said Gorin. “These committees are what makes
Kentlands—the Kentlands.” A change this year is an effort to recruit youth, ages 15
and above, to serve on committees or subcommittees to better plan for events and
resources that speak to this target population.
REMINDER: All Kentlands code requirements can be fulfilled easily through
early planning. In starting the process of enhancement, the following are suggested
guidelines.
After inspection, create a list of items that need attention. Determine the items that
can be done as a DIY project and those that would be better suited for attention by
a professional contractor. Establish target start and completion dates for work items.
Keep in mind that outdoor projects can usually be started in late March and should be
completed by the end of September.
Want to Learn More?
Several information sessions and open houses that include time for socializing and
networking among residents, committee members and Board members have been
planned starting in February (see ad below). These events provide an excellent strategy
to learn more and identify any areas of interest.
Contact and qualify contractors EARLY-ON to do whatever work is needed. To do so in
the spring will result in delays as Contractors start lining up their work schedules very
early in the year.
This year, three terms expire for two members of the Board of Trustees and the Board
president. The Board information meetings will provide an overview of the scope of
this important leadership opportunity through volunteer service to the community.
The Board information session II will go over the elections process and timeline.
As a general reminder, if any replacement necessities are contemplated, review the Visual Change Application (VCA) guidelines to determine if approval is required before
making exterior changes to material, design or color of your property. Submit a Visual
Change Application as early as possible to preclude any delays in needed work.
For More Information on Volunteering
for Committees and the Board of Trustees
Contact Barney Gorin, KCA Board President, at [email protected].
If you are not sure whether a Visual Change Application is required, or if you have
any questions about the VCA process, please contact Katie Mell, Assistant Manager,
at [email protected] or 301.948.2071. Visual Change Applications are
available at the Clubhouse and can be downloaded from the Kentlands website at
KentlandsUSA.com. n
Other Volunteer Opportunities
In addition to formal committee and Board service, there are other volunteer
opportunities in the Kentlands community. One example is the casually organized
Lend a Helping Shovel band of volunteers. Winter is here. It will eventually snow. KCA
recognizes that some residents will need help shoveling their sidewalks and driveways. If you would be willing to lend a helping hand, or shovel in this case, please
All leases and verifications will be
forwarded to the City of Gaithersburg
to assure compliance with the city’s
licensing requirement for all rental units.
SAVE THE DATES
GET INVOLVED IN THE NEW YEAR!
BE A VOLUNTEER!
VOLUNTEER OPEN HOUSE I
Thursday, February 18th
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
@ Kentlands Clubhouse
VOLUNTEER OPEN HOUSE II
Monday, April 11th
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Parking on Public Streets BOARD INFORMATION SESSION I
Monday, June 13th
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Please be reminded to park within
marked street spaces. Cars that are
illegally parked (too close to stop signs
or too close to mews entrances) risk
receiving a parking ticket from the
Gaithersburg police.
BOARD INFORMATION SESSON II
Thursday, September 15th
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Also, please be aware that the City of
Gaithersburg has a 48-hour parking limit
Contact KCA President Barney Gorin at [email protected]
for more information on volunteer opportunities.
on public streets that is enforced. You
may be issued a ticket if you are parked
more than 48 hours. The following is
taken from the Online Municipal Code:
Chapter 14
MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC
Sec. 14–16. Parking for more than
forty-eight hours prohibited:
No person shall park any
motor vehicle or other vehicle
upon any street, avenue, road,
highway, public parking lot or
vacant lot for a continuous period
of more than forty-eight hours at
any one time. n
Questions? Contact Laurie Levy-Page
Performing Arts Coordinator
City of Gaithersburg/Arts Barn/Arts on the Green
ARTS on the
301.258.6394
llevy–[email protected]
February is a Grand Month for Music at Arts on the Green
Get in the Act
February sees the return of the sfz salon series for classical music, a tuneful tribute to
Rodgers and Hammerstein and a chance for everyone to belt out Broadway tunes at
our second annual Broadway Sing-Along. So if music warms your heart, you’ll need
to spend time at Arts Barn and Kentlands Mansion during this wintry month. And if
you are trying to “think spring,” read about the Spring Break Camps coming to the
Arts Barn. Details follow… for tickets and class and workshop registration, call the
Arts Barn at 301.258.6394. Arts on the Green is located at 311/320 Kent Square Rd in
Gaithersburg. More information at www.gaithersburgmd.gov.
Broadway Sing-Along
Sunday, February 28 3:30pm • $10 per person • Kentlands Mansion
In Concert
Brahms and Bunch
Saturday, February 20 7:30pm • Tickets: $25; $12 (18 & under) • Kentlands Mansion
The sfz salon series returns with engaging conversation, wine and, of course,
wonderful chamber music. On February 20, it will be classical and contemporary
pieces by Brahms and Bunch, respectively—with an exciting bonus piece.
Karin Brown
Baltimore Symphony Orchestra violist
extraordinaire, Karin Brown, and pianist
by Alex Peh, sfz salon’s talented curator, will perform Brahms’ Sonata in E-flat
major op. 120 no. 2 and Kenji Bunch’s
Suite for Viola and Piano. This program
is a perfect example of the sfz series’ adventurous and wide-ranging perspective
on classical and contemporary chamber
music. Johannes Brahms requires minimal introduction; the 19th century composer and pianist is one of the “Three
B’s” of classical music (with Bach and
Beethoven). Contemporary composer
Kenji Bunch may be less well known, but
has emerged as one of the most prominent, prolific, and versatile American
composers of his generation. His music has been performed by over forty
orchestras, in premiere venues on six
continents. He has also performed his
own groundbreaking works for viola.
Could he be a “Fourth B” in the making?
Beyond Brahms and Bunch, Peh will also
perform the Washington D.C. premiere of
a solo piano piece, Columba (2015), by
Phyllis Chen. As a composer, Chen’s music
has been described as “spellbinding”
(NY Times) and “mesmerizing” (ChicaAlex Peh
go Reader). Her website says that Chen
focuses “on the use of toy pianos and miniature objects/instruments to distill and
express the many things in life.” With this in mind, expect Peh to not only play piano
but to literally pull surprises out of a box!
After its rousing debut in 2015, Broadway Sing-Along is back.
Part of AOTG’s “Get in the Act” programming, Broadway
Sing-Along invites the audience to belt out—enthusiasm being
at least as important as singing talent--favorite tunes from classic Broadway musicals. The afternoon of singing will be led by
Cory Davis, energetic and accomplished new music director
of the Gaithersburg Chorus. Don’t know the lyrics? We’ve got
your back with lyric sheets. Plus, there’s a musical theatre trivia
contest with fun prizes.
Relax, bring the kids (or not) and participate in the arts at this lively and most definitely
not intimidating event in the beautiful and intimate Kentlands Mansion. All ages are
welcome and refreshments will be available for purchase.
Classes & Workshops
If you are planning a staycation this spring break, consider making it an especially fun
and memorable one by enrolling your child in one of Arts Barn’s spring break camps.
The camps run from March 28–April 1 from 9am–3pm.
For ages 4-6, Arts Barn offers Trash to Treasure Art Camp. Campers use recyclable
materials to create a variety of art projects. Kids age 7–11 can come to Exploring the
World Through Art. They will learn about types and styles of art from all over the continent and then make their own versions, using a variety of media. For both camps, the
week culminates in an exhibit of their artwork, which family and friends are invited
to attend.
And for kids ages 12–15 years, there is On Your Toes Improv. Improv skills are not only
incredibly fun to learn, they also add to every young actor’s toolbox. Learn to take a
word and turn it into a hilarious skit and much more in this high-energy week. The
final day includes a performance for family and friends. Improv camp will be led by
up-and-coming performing artist Mason Trappio, winner of DC’s Funniest Comedian
Contest at the University of MD in 2011 and 2012. Trappio has also performed at DC
Improv and at the Kennedy Center in a play for Bentzen Ball, DC’s premiere comedy
festival.
In the Gallery
Arts Barn
Throughout February: Seeking the Soul: the Artist’s View of the World and its
Inhabitants. Features: Alessandra Chiottia (Mixed media); Dareya Cohen (Jewelry);
Sue Kay (Watercolor); Yolanda Prinsloo (Oil); and Edward Solow (Photography).
Kentlands Mansion
Throughout February: Third Annual Art League of Germantown (ALOG) Exhibit
features art in many media by member so of ALOG.
ARTS BARN • 311 Kent Square Road • Gaithersburg, MD 20878
301.258.6394 • www.gaithersburgmd.gov • www.facebook.com/ArtsontheGreen n
On Stage
A Grand Night for Singing • Presented by Montgomery Playhouse
February 12–27 • Tickets: $22 (general); $12 (14 & under) • Arts Barn
Have any announcements, events, or community news
Broadway’s tribute to the genius of Rodgers & Hammerstein illustrates how wonderfully timeless their music is. The musical revue’s 30 songs are from shows including
Oklahoma!, The Sound of Music and Cinderella. It doesn’t get any grander than this!
There is a special matinee on February 20 at 2 p.m. Recommended for ages 12 & up.
you’d like to share in the Kentlands Town Crier?
Call Dana Macena at 301.948.2071.
K25 to Host Formal Gala Celebration
Limited Tickets for Sale Now!
By Claire Lane
The Kentlands 25 Committee is hosting a formal gala next April as a grand and final celebration for the 25th Anniversary of our
community. The April 16th gala will be an adult-only affair, bringing our friends and neighbors together to celebrate in style.
In keeping with the era of our community’s birth, the 1980s cover band, The Reagan Years, will be performing live!
MedImmune has graciously offered the use of their headquarters facility across the street as a venue for this fantastic evening
of cocktails, dinner, music and dancing, and socializing. With generous support from the KCA and the Kentlands Community
Foundation and donations from local businesses, the ticket price will be only $100 per person. Tickets will are available for
purchase now at www.kentlands25.org, and space is limited to 200.
“We really want to make this an outstanding night for all the Kentlands neighbors who want to celebrate the twenty-fifth
anniversary,” said gala organizer Lee Wilson. “We have worked hard to pull together a fantastic evening, in a great space, with
excellent food. We have also been very deliberate about keeping the price point as low as possible. I don’t think it would be
possible to get a nicer, formal evening of dinner, music and dancing at this price,” Wilson added.
“This gala has been the capstone of our K25 plans from the beginning, and now we have so much more to celebrate after so
many successful, community-building events that have been produced over the last two years,” commented Ailene Renzi,
K25 co-chair.
4.16.16
Check your photo files for memories of Kentlands early days
Do you have any “classic” early Kentlands photos you’d be willing to share for the Gala slide show? If so, please email them
to [email protected] . We will have a slide show running during our cocktail hour that you won’t want to miss. Additional
details about the Gala (including suggested attire) are available on the K25 website (www.kentlands25.org).
Save the date.
Space is limited for the gala, so please be sure to purchase your tickets early! n
Dance Dance Dance!!!
By Tamar Rhode
This portrait of Souzan Mills is written
in honor of her five year anniversary as
owner of Studio Booseh.
Born in Tehran, Souzan and her family
had to leave Iran because of the IranIraq war in the early 1980’s. When the
Iranian army began recruiting her 14 year
old brother to join, Souzan’s family fled
to Switzerland. Shortly after, Souzan and
her father returned to Iran for another
year, then went to Turkey before Souzan
was finally sent to the U.S. At 13 years
old, she arrived at Dulles International
Airport alone but went to live with her
aunt in Montgomery County.
Souzan Mills, owner of Studio Booseh
Though only 13, Souzan was placed
in the 9th grade as an ESOL student at
Richard Montgomery High School. She
made friends easily, particularly with
other Iranian girls. As a youth Souzan
dreamed of being an aerospace engineer with NASA, but it was dance that
formed the common thread from childhood to adolescence, from Tehran to
Gaithersburg. And of course, it was the
80’s!—Flashdance, Thriller, Dirty Dancing
and breakdancing were everywhere.
Soon enough, she realized that her abilities in this arena far exceeded those in the
maths and sciences necessary to pursue
an aeronautical career.
By the time her parents arrived in 1987,
Souzan had changed significantly. She
had adapted to American culture and in
turn it had swept her in. Dance occupied her free time- primarily international
dance which included belly dancing.
Rehearsal for school programs kept her
there late nearly every day. Her strict father forbade belly dancing, perceived in
their homeland as something associated
with prostitution. Souzan, however, was
quite determined and continued to pursue her interest.
After graduating from high school Souzan held a few different jobs, ultimately
JANUARY 2016 n www.kentlandsusa.com becoming involved with skin care.
Souzan put in the 400-800 hours of theory and practice to become board certified in this. She learned to work with different skin types, with people of varying
ethnicities. She worked with practitioners
and top surgeons at a variety of Medical
Spas as a medical esthetician, learning
and loving it all the way.
Finally, in December 2010 Souzan
opened Studio Booseh, Persian for ‘kiss’.
The Studio is intimate, the classes charged,
the dancers devoted. Here, Souzan combines her two favorite majors—dance
and skin care. Belly Dance, Zumba, and
Barre are featured, as is permanent makeup – eyebrow enhancement, scar camouflage, and any lip enhancement you
can imagine to make you beautiful. And
why wouldn’t you want to be beautiful?
Souzan’s sculpted body and beautiful
features are the perfect inspiration! We
join her in toasting 5 years as owner,
instructor, and all around beautician! n
Once I opened the door, there was a
sweet smell and I later found out it was a
candle burning, which she actually sells
in the store. (I came home with a Smoked
Tobacco Pipe candle—don’t knock it
until you try it!)
I was quickly greeted with a “hello” and
was asked how I could be helped, but I
wasn’t followed around the store. It has a
neat setup of different rooms, with lots to
see. I had to go through the store multiple
times to notice everything.
The pricing was very reasonable, but
more importantly, the items brought
me on a trip down memory lane! The
merchandise is unique and each subsequent visit brings new finds and unique
purchases, at affordable pricing.
I found myself in a discussion with Jodi
Rapaport, the owner, about the Star
Diner jukebox she bought along with
other finds she scored like the ‘neon’
Burger signs and the marquee sign.
My Big Finds
By Kari Conklin
said she is thrilled to meet new people
and surprised that she hasn’t met all these
great people before.
When I was at the checkout area, I saw
the sign identifying her numerous “future
finds” in the back. That’s when she told
me why she’s closed Monday and Tuesdays; which is when she finds new “finds”
but also makes things look fresh and new
around the shop. She wants people to feel
like they can’t go a week without popping
in or they’ll miss her new offerings.
I finally decided to visit the neighborhood’s new pop-up shop, My Big Finds,
at 215 Market Street West. I had seen
numerous posts about it on Facebook and
Instagram; the store is around the corner
from me, so I thought it was time to check
it out! I also heard the vibe was great, so
I wanted to see it for myself.
I was able to park right outside and saw
cool stuff in the window, which caught
my attention and instantly drew me in.
Jodi explained how the Star Diner was a
pivotal part of the community when she
moved to the Kentlands more than nine
years ago and she wanted to preserve its
memory via her shop.
Jodi offers to find items for you if you have
something specific in mind. Her shop
was cozy, warm and inviting. The holiday
décor had given way to New Year’s and
Valentine’s Day items.
She continued on to say as customers
come in, they are excited to see the Star
Diner items. It creates a dialog to discuss
their past in the development and fosters new relationships. After living in the
Kentlands for more than nine years, Jodi
Jodi mentioned how warm, kind and
supportive the community has been of
her venture, which is open through the
end of February. My friends and I have
encouraged her to stay longer, to which
she said “we’ll see what happens”. n
12
contractor debris even if you’re doing it yourself—will be there after the “big stuff”
trash truck is gone on the first Thursday of the month.
How Big A Mess?
Issue Two: loose material escaping “into the wild.”
There are a lot of ways that individual pieces of trash end up roaming free. The
“unbagged” nature of recyclables means that they are especially able to
escape the surly system’s bonds to roam free, especially on windy days. People
comply with open container laws by throwing that empty beer can from their car
as soon as the nectar is exhausted. Small children are prone to leave toys and
sox and mittens behind. Older kids leave other articles of clothing. The list goes
on…
If it happens that your “stuff” turns out to be left behind, PLEASE pick it up the same
day rather than wait, with desperate hope, that someone else will take care of it.
If you put it there, it’s YOUR responsibility.
Yes, Kentlands is a beautiful place. Let’s all do
the small things needed to keep the surrounding
area pristine to keep it beautiful for ourselves,
for our kids, and for our wildlife friends. Earth
Day does not have to be just April 22nd. In fact,
if we make “every day Earth Day” by just one
or two small things, things as simple as picking
up that plastic gadget that holds the beer
cans someone donated to our neighborhood,
we do our bit for the entire world and all its
creatures. n
Are even small pieces of plastic a problem? Well, ask Mae West the turtle (see photo
on page 1). That plastic ring may be the smaller piece of the tamper proof cap on a
gallon jug of milk. Think about it and then look around for trash in our neighborhood a bit. Pictures of the animals that are injured or sentenced to an ugly death
by careless trash disposal make Mae, here, look positively healthy and are probably a bit too intense for publication in the Crier. All of us can, and SHOULD, do
our part.
Issue Three: donations from others.
Have the time and interest
Well, maybe “donations” is
not the right term. We are
told that non-Kentlanders
intentionally
bring
their
trash here for disposal from
time to time and leave it in
specific locations. One of
these spots is near the corner
of Tschiffely Square Road and
Kendrick Place.
If you happen to see someone bring in a load of trash to
donate to Kentlands, please
take a picture or two of these
generous individuals and call
the Clubhouse (301.948.2071)
to let us know what’s going on
and where. We want to thank
them appropriately!
But the “donations” come
from concerned parents or
caregivers, too. Really! This
picture is of the area under
the trees between Tschiffely
Square Road and Rachel
Carson Elementary. It’s truly sad to see what the folks waiting to pick their kids up leave
behind, all the more so because Rachel Carson’s name is so closely associated with
caring for our environment.
in serving your community?
Want to be a part of the decision
making process that directly
affects your property values?
If so, contact Barney Gorin at
Have a skill or expertise
[email protected]
that you could share?
to share your ideas and interest.
KEEP
CALM
AND
HIRE
A
DESIGNER
Issue Four: “stuff” they are not going to take.
It turns out that some of us, in
our more optimistic moments,
believe that the City will
remove debris that is on their
“uh—no, not that” list. This
includes contractor debris,
household hazardous waste,
propane tanks or tanks under
pressure, motor vehicles parts
and tires, and latex or oil based
paint or paint cans). The wood
and carpet in the picture—
TM
301.602.4367
AnyArtStudios.com • [email protected]
Kentlands Historical Trust
Prepared by Katie Mell
Minutes of the Kentlands
Historic Trust Meeting 12.02.15
Committee Members Present:
Susan Darcey, KHT Acting Chair
Ruthzaly Weich, KHT
Ade Alli, KHT
Marina Khoury, DPZ
Management/Residents/
Owners/Guests Present:
Katie Mell, Assistant Manager, CMC
Barney Gorin, President, KCA
Tom Miller, 113 Leekes Lot Way
Gordon MacKay, 113 Leekes Lot Way
(Architect, MacKay Construction)
Susan Goldberg, 421 Tschiffely Sq. Rd.
The meeting was called to order at
6:30pm on Wednesday, January 6, 2016
at the Kentlands Clubhouse.
David & Susan Goldberg, #16-001
Block II • Lot 5 • 421 Tschiffely Sq. Rd.
Storm Door: Approved to install a white
full glass Provia Deluxe storm door to the
front of the home.
Kevin & Shari McCann, #15-117-A (Revisit)
Block JJ • Lot 25 • 733 Chestertown St.
Windows: Approved to replace all
windows with Andersen 400 Series.
Note: All windows, including new or
From The Treasurer: KCA Finances in Context
Current Financial Highlights
replacement windows, shall have muntins.
Door: Approved to install steel ProVia
smooth heritage rear entry door
Siding: Approved to replace all Masonite
siding with Countrylane hardie plank
8.25” cedarmill lap siding and Arctic
White hardie trim.
Rick Tavares, #16-002
Block RR • Lot 19 • 628 Kent Oaks Way
Windows: Approved to replace all windows with double hung Pella Proline 450
Series. Color and grids to match existing
windows.
Note: All windows, including new or replacement windows, shall have muntins.
Door: Approved to replace rear door with
Provia 3 panel patio door. Color and design to match existing door.
Thomas Miller, #16-003
Block CC • Lot 4 • 113 Leekes Lot Way
New Home: Approved to rebuild home
after house fire.
Stipulations: Per the Kentlands Design
Code “Two or more windows in the same
rough opening on a façade (frontage)
shall be separated by a minimum 4 inch
post.” Window and door specifications,
including manufactures, model number,
color, and materials, to be submitted.
As of November 30, 2015, total cash and investments stood at $1,533,648,
a decrease of 28% since the beginning of 2015. Invested reserve funds were $1,438,036,
a decrease of 23%.
Amounts allocated to each of our reserve funds were as follows:
• Recreational Facilities Reserve $726,984 (down 6% since the start of 2015)
• Titleholders Initial Contribution fund $500,245 (up 2%)
• Unappropriated Owners’ Equity $351,498 (unchanged since the start of the year)
• Capital Project Reserve $105,366 (up 55%),
• General Reserve $(44,383) (down 115%)
To reconcile these figures with the year-end projections shown above will require
an inter-fund transfer, but that is just a bookkeeping action and does not involve any
actual movement of funds.
Total Income for the year to date was $1,955,662, 2% below budget chiefly because
of a 42% shortfall in Interest Earned on Reserve Accounts and 26% in Town Crier
Advertising Income,). These shortfalls were partly balanced by better-than-expected
income from:
• Facilities Rental Income ($2,143 or 29% favorable to budget)
• Titleholders Initial Contribution ($1,242 or 4%)
• Snack Bar Income ($594 or 8%)
• Expenses year-to-date totaled $2,156,675, which was $161,784 (8%) over budget.
Expense categories that were over budget for the year to date included:
• Snow Removal Services, $89,440 (217%) over budget
• General Repairs & Maintenance, $42,525 (186%)
Meeting adjourned at 7:45pm. n
• Site Management Staff Payroll, $18,489 (5%)
• Community Center Utilities, $14,102.16 (27%)
• Consulting/Engineering, $4,869 (33%)
Want to spotlight
YOUR
Kentlands business?
Contact Dana Macena
at 301.948.2071 or
[email protected]
for more information.
• Town Crier Publication and Distribution, $4,092(10%)
• Single Family & Townhouse Trash Rem, $3,437 (3%)
• Transfers to Titleholders Initial Contribution Fund. $3,226 (10%)
• Website Maintenance, $1,906.86 (127%)
The overall net deficit for the year so far was $201,012, which was $199,295 (12%)
unfavorable to budget.
Sources of Information, and How to Get More
The description of BFAC functions came from AR-20 plus the author’s ten years of
personal experience as a BFAC member, Chair, or Board liaison. Past financial data
came from CMC year-end Financial Reports, and future projections came from KCA’s
2016 Budget. Interested Titleholders are welcome to review any of these documents
by dropping in at the KCA offices. They are also welcome to sit in on BFAC meetings, which normally occur on the third Tuesday of each month, at 7:30pm, in the
Clubhouse. n
High School Students Wanted to Serve on Activities Committee
If you know of a student interested in helping to plan the
Kentlands social calendar, please contact Barney Gorin,
KCA President at [email protected].
Light Bulbs Just Got More Complicated
By Karen Norris
KCA Requires the Increasingly Elusive
Incandescent Bulbs for Outside Lighting
Most of us are used to incandescent light bulbs, including what some consider the
warm glow of light emitted from these types of bulbs. With the changes in legislation,
not only in this country but also around the world, restrictions on the manufacture and
sale of incandescent light bulbs are making them more difficult to find in the marketplace. There are some exceptions that include candelabra lights, colored or certain
specialty lights, appliance lights and others.
Outside Lighting
Proper lighting helps create comfort in the home, in addition to the obvious need
for light when it is dark outside. In addition to decisions about the type of lighting to
use indoors, there are considerations for outdoor lighting, as well. During the winter months, proper outside lighting in the mews helps promote a safe environment,
reducing trip hazards and discouraging crime. KCA reminds residents to leave their
mews lights on when it is dark outside, and the management office, in fact, monitors
mews light participation throughout the winter months.
While incandescent bulbs were once required elements of the Kentlands Citizen
Assembly (KCA) outside lighting requirements, Exhibit A of the architectural standards,
Miscellaneous Item 12, was updated to reflect, “Energy efficient fluorescents are approved. The bulb shall be bulb-shaped and not coiled spring-shaped if the bulb can
be seen in the fixture.” The Board of Code Compliance released an article in October
2013 reminding homeowners “that when installing new long lasting or energy efficient
light bulbs such as compact fluorescent lights (CFL) or light emitting diodes (LED)
that, per the Kentlands Design Standards, they need to be ‘bulb’ shaped.” There are
questions and issues that remain, however, about these alternative bulbs.
Benefits of Alternative Bulbs
According to manufacturers and vendors, electric lighting consumes up to 25 percent
of the average home energy budget. Incandescent bulbs use more electricity than
other styles of light bulbs. The public drain on electric and financial resources is real,
considering the widespread use of light bulbs. Reducing or eliminating the use of
incandescent bulbs, therefore, would create both environmental as well as overall
financial benefits. Alternative light bulbs require less electricity, last longer and are
brighter than their incandescent counterparts. A 60-watt LED bulb, for example, will
be brighter than a 60-watt incandescent bulb.
Objections to Alternative Bulbs
Alternative bulbs are more expensive to purchase than incandescent bulbs, so the
cost is upfront rather than use over time. Some alternative bulbs don’t dim, or cost
more to work with dimmer switches. Buyers must read packages carefully to confirm
dimming capabilities, if they are desired. Some alternative bulbs contain mercury,
which is another worrisome environmental and health concern. Some emit blue white
light, which is more industrial in nature, rather than the perceived warmer light of
incandescent bulbs.
It is possible to find alternative light bulbs with warmer light like the incandescent
bulbs, but that would require additional reading of labels and a rudimentary
understanding of the Kelvin color temperature scale:
• 2700K homes, restaurants (“warmest light” like incandescent bulbs)
• 3000K offices, retail stores
• 4100K showrooms, bookstores
• 5000K museums, hospitals
• 5600K simulated outdoors (whitest light)
LED bulbs are shaped like incandescent bulbs; however, many LED bulbs have a solid
white base or neck that screws into the socket. The white neck of the bulb changes
its appearance somewhat from the traditional incandescent bulbs. While indoors use
would be a matter of personal choice, the design standards do not address the white
base of LED bulbs for outdoor use.
Halogen
Halogen bulbs can look like flood lights or can be tubular in shape. Halogen bulbs are
commonly used in desk lamps, track or accent lighting, but can be found in ceiling fixtures and pedestal fixtures. Halogen lights, particularly outdoor lights, can also have a
PAR designation. Halogen light bulbs are more efficient than traditional incandescent
bulbs, and may be more likely to meet the new regulations for illumination and light
intensity; however, halogen bulbs can run very hot and have been known to cause fires
when placed too close to fabrics such as curtains.
Compact Fluorescent
Compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) are formed in a continuous tube in a spiral shape
which approaches similar light casting qualities as standard incandescent light bulbs
rather than the original fluorescent bulbs; however, the spiral-shaped CFLs are not
approved for outdoor use in the Kentlands. The design standards for outside require
CFLs that have a globe of glass over the spiral. While many CFLs include the globe
over the spiral to mirror the look of an incandescent bulb, the important distinction
about CFLs, however, is that they contain mercury. They use less electricity than incandescent bulbs, but mercury is a toxic element. Buyers need to read and understand
the package and label information. Buyers should also ask retailers about recycling
programs to reduce the adverse impact of mercury to the environment once the bulb
is burned out. Most local hardware stores accept old fluorescent bulbs for recycling.
If a bulb breaks, it is important to avoid contact with the mercury.
Fluorescent
Fluorescent tubes come in several styles and shapes, but they all produce light using
the same process. Electric current passes through a mercury vapor and “excites” the
gas. This allows the fluorescent bulb to glow. Fluorescent bulbs do not turn on instantly
when cold. Because fluorescent bulbs are so widely used, particularly in business and
manufacturing environments, manufacturers today are developing fluorescent bulbs
with reduced mercury content compared to original designs, and recycling programs
now are intended to prevent mercury release; however, the public needs to use those
recycling programs for them to be effective. New lamp types offer improved starting
characteristics, and dimmable types are now available. Again, buyers must read labels
and ask retailers about recycling programs.
High Intensity Discharge
High intensity discharge (HID) lights are powerful and are used mostly for automotive
headlights, outdoor security lights, parking garage lights, roadway lights and other
commercial applications. HIDs produce light from an electric arc that flows between
electrodes inside a clear quartz, which is filled with gas and metal salts. Various
types of chemistry are used in the arc tubes for different characteristics such as color
temperature and intensity. Responsible disposal should be followed when the HIDs
no longer work.
For More Information
Basically, the higher the number on the package, the more blue/white the light.
LED Bulbs
Light emitting diode (LED) bulbs are becoming the more practical substitute for
incandescent bulbs. They contain no mercury or other chemical hazard. They come in
Kentlands Town Crier a variety of whites, as marked on the package. Not all LED bulbs can dim, but some
can. Just read the package and expect to pay more for dimming capability. LED bulbs
turn on and off instantly at any temperature, like incandescent bulbs. They have a long
lifetime and they radiate almost no heat. They are brighter than incandescent bulbs
and use less electricity. Some LED bulbs have what’s called a parabolic aluminized
reflector (PAR) rating, which will be designated on the box label. PAR lighting allows
lights to have a superior focusing ability, a benefit for outdoor lighting.
Any questions or requests about additional, alternative or new outdoor light
fixtures should be presented through the visual change process and application, or contact the Assistant Community Manager, Katie Mell, at 301.948.2071 or [email protected]. n
15
FOR SALE
Kentlands Real Estate Listings
Address
Housing Type
List Price
Romantic Waterfront Sunsets for Rent
It’s time for family and friends to relax and
enjoy breath taking, panoramic views of
the romantic Roanoke Sound. This fully
furnished and equipped, 3 level, 5 bedroom, 4 1/2 bath, single family home has
gorgeous, unobstructed water views and
is available weekly or for a long, luxurious weekend. Take in the beautiful sunsets
while soaking in the oversized Hot Tub or lounging on the wrap around deck. Three
Master bedroom suites with en-suite private bath. Great room with flat screen and
surround sound. Hi speed wireless internet. Private ocean front pool club (olympic
and kitty pool, restaurant and shower rooms) and tennis with daily shuttle service.
Golfers will enjoy the home’s location on the 18th hole of the Nags Head Golf
Links (http://www.clubcorp.com/Clubs/Nags-Head-Golf-Links/About-the-Club/
General-Information) and boaters have 2 sound side docks exclusive for
community use.
DOM
124 Kendrick Pl. #28............................ Condo......................................$285,000.............................72
406 Kentlands Blvd. #304.................... Condo......................................$290,000...........................143
302 Ridgepoint Pl. #38......................... Conddo....................................$299,900...........................157
7 Granite Pl. #416................................ Condo......................................$299,999...........................192
113 Chevy Chase St. #113................... Condo......................................$350,000...............................4
178 Chevy Chase St............................. Condo......................................$380,000...............................5
87 Chevy Chase St............................... Condo......................................$434,900.............................25
539 Tschiffely Square Rd...................... Townhome................................$489,000...............................2
532 Tschiffely Square Rd...................... Townhome................................$598,900...........................108
21 Kent Gardens Cir............................. Townhome................................$759,900...............................2
103 Beckwith St................................... Single Family............................$769,900.............................59
Book your 2015 reservation (for rental home “Masters 20”), by January 31st and
receive 10% off of weekly rate.Veteran, hero, and repeat renters discounts also available.
Go to http://www.resortrealty.com/rentals/nags-head/masters-20/5599/ for photos,
reservations, and additional contact/information. 345 Little Quarry Rd............................. Single Family............................$849,900...........................102
223 Thaxton St..................................... Single Family............................$875,000...........................103
311 Thaxton St..................................... Single Family............................$882,000...........................223
Experienced Care Giver in the Kentlands
UNDER CONTRACT
Address
Housing Type
List Price
Babysitter/nanny/in-home elderly care available in the neighborhood provided by
wonderful grandmother and caregiver. Prior experience with care for children and
elderly as well as children with special needs. Excellent cook and available to help
with needs around the household as well. Bilingual in English and Spanish. Has
own transportation. Please call Sarah for more information at 301.525.9722 or
email at [email protected].
DOM
7 Granite Pl. #115................................ Condo......................................$211,000...........................109
17 Granite Pl. #499.............................. Condo......................................$285,000...........................119
124 Kendrick Pl. #26............................ Condo......................................$295,000...........................159
7 Booth St. #406.................................. Condo......................................$317,000.............................30
SPORTCRAFT Foosball Table—$200 installed 402 Ridgepoint Pl. #36......................... Condo......................................$335,000.............................75
I bought this a few years ago and
no longer have need for it. The
table is rock solid and in excellent
condition.
136 Thurgood St................................... Townhome................................$584,900.............................39
721 Chestertown St.............................. Townhome................................$589,900.............................54
465 Tschiffely Square Rd...................... Cottage.....................................$734,900...........................196
The table measures 56” long by
30” wide without the rods. You will
need at least 10’ by 10’ room to play
comfortably and move about.
121 Treehaven St.................................. Single Family............................$979,000.............................89
SOLD (12/1–present)
Address
Housing Type
Orig/List Price
Sold Price
DOM
The table is solidly built and somewhat heavy. It has been partially disassembled so that it can be moved through
doors. I will need your assistance moving it to your house. Once there I will set it
up at its new location and make sure it is level at no additional cost. I will leave you
with the instruction manual, balls, parts list and special silicone oil that is used to
lubricate the bushings. James Pash • 240.273.6165
7 Granite Pl. #117.....................................Condo........................ $235,000.................. $225,000................ 96
17 Granite Pl. #193...................................Condo........................ $239,999.................. $243,000.................. 6
31 Booth St. #457......................................Condo........................ $274,000.................. $274,000................ 12
31 Booth St. #251......................................Condo........................ $360,000.................. $360,000................ 83
84 Chevy Chase St.....................................Condo........................ $415,000.................. $422,500.................. 6
110 Clagett Crossing Pl..............................Cottage....................... $585,000.................. $570,000..............124
303 Inspiration Ln......................................Townhome................. $729,900.................. $722,000................ 22
FOR RENT
Address
Housing Type
List Price
DOM
322 Main St. ........................................ Condo......................................$1,500.................................73
17 Granite Pl. #291.............................. Condo......................................$1,895.................................26
31 Booth St. #B56................................ Condo......................................$1,999.................................32
17 Granite Pl. #495.............................. Condo......................................$2,200.................................12
23 Arch Pl. #472.................................. Condo......................................$2,250...............................118
111 Chestertown St.............................. Townhome................................$2,900.................................31
The information above was obtained from MRIS. Information is believed to be accurate, but should not be relied
upon without verification. Information was retrieved on 01/11/2016 by Valerie Harnois, REALTOR 301.980.4883 •
Old Line Properties • [email protected].
JANUARY 2016 n www.kentlandsusa.com Send Dana Macena your classified at [email protected].
16
$100
Charles C.
Harrington, DDS
$100
Here’s $100 From your
neigHborHood attorneys!
SPECIALIST IN ORTHODONTICS
Wills and Trusts • Estate Planning and Probate
Corporate and LLC Law • Real Estate Settlements
Voted as one of Washington area’s
“Best Orthodontists”
by the Washingtonian Magazine since 2003
Treating both children and adults!
Conveniently located in the Quince Orchard Medical Park,
across from the Kentlands
177 Kentlands Boulevard • suite 200
GaithersBurG, Md 20878
301-590-9300
$100
11904 Darnestown Road, Suite C
301.977.1441
www.bracesbych.com
Mention this advertisement and we will reduce
our Buyer/Borrower settlement fee or clients
legal fee for an estate planning matter by $100.
Not valid with any other discount.
$100
Top-Rated on Angies List
and the Better Business Bureau
In our eyes, nothing is more valuable than feeling
comfortable. It’s just another one of our ways of making sure
your comfort always comes first. Whatever it takes.SM
Service Managers
Special
Have you received an estimate for costly
repairs or equipment replacement?
Rod Miller Inc. would like to give you a
free second opinion and/or estimate.
There’s only one thing better than peace
of mind, and that’s FREE peace of mind.
(301)587-1517
www.rodmillerhvac.com
Special Offer
15% off
Our Residential Service Agreements
AND 50% OFF Second System
Discount applied to first year only
Coupons cannot be combined
$7995
HVAC INSPECTION
16 Point FALL/SPRING SAFETY
and EFFICIENCY INSPECTION
License# 01-3295 RC 702
FINANCING AVAILABLE
Not good in combination with other offers.
Please mention Coupon# KT-09 at time of booking.
Some restrictions may apply.
facebook.com/rodmillerhvac
A Hidden Gem
north of Inspiration Lake. The National Geographic Society’s large holdings, which
many early Kentlands settlers felt would be undeveloped in perpetuity rather
than turned into Lakelands, are inside the thinly lined, white boundary at the center of
the picture on page 6.
The Carriage House’s history lesson goes
further back, in the form of a wonderful
quilt that celebrates some of the events
along the way of Kentlands creation. It
also goes forward with other artifacts, including news reports describing the New
Urbanist, Kentlands, the concept, some
early designs, and photographs of the
construction that transformed raw land
into a vibrant community. These are also
on display to be enjoyed by all those who
visit the facility.
It almost seems a shame that the folks
using the Carriage House are looking
at bridge hands or planning the next
generation of Kentlands communications strategy rather than looking at the
material that’s on the walls around them!
Ah, well… some of us just enjoy what’s
hanging on the walls. n
CITY NEWS: Essay Contest
Celebrates African American
History Month in Gaithersburg
In celebration of African American History
Month, the City of Gaithersburg Multicultural Affairs and Educational Enrichment
Committees are hosting an essay contest
for third, fourth and fifth grade students
from Gaithersburg elementary schools.
The top three winners will read their essays and receive awards during a special
reception on Monday, February 22, 2016,
from 6 to 7:30pm at the Activity Center at Bohrer Park, 506 South Frederick
Avenue. The public is invited to attend.
Students are asked to “Tell us about an
African American who inspires you and
why.” The person can be a role model in
the student’s life or someone famous who
serves as an inspiration for who the student
aspires to be in the future. Essays should
be typed, double spaced and between
100 and 300 words. They will be judged
on content and originality. The student’s
name, grade and school must be included in the essay’s heading. Submit entries
by Friday, January 29 via e-mail tomac@
gaithersburgmd.gov, with “MAC Essay
Contest 2016” in the subject line. For more
information, please contact Andi Rosati
at 301.258.6350 x128, e-mailarosati@
gaithersburgmd.gov, or visit the City’s
website at www.gaithersburgmd.gov.
JANUARY 2016 n www.kentlandsusa.com Participants Sought for 16th
Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The City of Gaithersburg, in partnership
with the Harp and Shamrock Society of
Gaithersburg and the Peterson Companies/Rio Washingtonian Center, will host
the 16th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade
at 10am on Saturday, March 12, 2016
at Washingtonian Center. Live entertainment will follow the parade until 1pm.
Community groups and other organizations are invited to march in the parade.
This is a great way to be involved in the
community and to get your group noticed. Past participants have included
Celtic dancers, bagpipe bands, school
groups, clowns, fire trucks, equestrian
units, service organizations, and more.
Note: participation by groups/organizations
other than City of Gaithersburg officials,
departments or committees does not
constitute City of Gaithersburg endorsement.
A participant application form is available on the City’s website. If you are interested in participating at the parade as
a sponsor, please e-mail Mary Gray at
[email protected]. If you are interested in participating at the parade as a
vendor, please e-mail Laurie Yankowski at
[email protected].
For more info call the City at 301.258.6350
or The Harp and Shamrock Society at
240.447.9744, www.hssg.org. n
18
Dear Kentlands residents,
Providing quality construction since 1963
We understand roofing is not just about the protection of your home,
it’s also about the aesthetic appearance and beauty of the neighborhood.
We provide solutions to your existing roofing needs in the form of
30 and 50 year warranted CCA approved shakes.
Call us to schedule an appointment for a free no obligation estimate.
We look forward to meeting you!
Robert Politz, Owner
Apples to Apples Program
will match any competitor pricing
along with an additional 10% off.
Why choose PE Roofing?
4 Over 40 years in business
4 BBB A+ rating
4 Approved installer by the Cedar
Shake and Shingle Bureau
4 Numerous references available
(Inquire for more details.)
www.PolitzEnterprises.com • 301.620.2023 • 888.506.4088
People’s Choice for any and all of your roofing needs!
National approved member of RoofingPeople.com
Kentlands Town Crier Exceptional Military Discounts
Financing Now Available
19
A+ Rating
MHIC #101148
DC LIC #420213000128
VA LIC #2705071209A

January 2016

Transcription

Similar documents

The Board of Directors of Qatar Fuel (WOQOD) is pleased to invite

September 2013

EROSION CONTROL is for planting

Annonce S1

108 Marina Terra

19 Marina Terra - Seaside Realty

waiver guidelines jakarta incident

2016 Winter Newsletter

Please join us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/einsteinaward

10, 2007 - Kentlands

shopper guide.indd

June 2014 - Kentlands

or Free PDF