January-February 2008 Lakelands Leader
Transcription
January-February 2008 Lakelands Leader
L WWW.LAKELANDS.ORG The L AKELANDS eader January/February 2008 what’snews? Children’s Community Chorus Sing Their Hearts Out Lakelands neighbors Ashley and Megan MacDanald and Katie Palmiere sang their hearts out during the holiday sing-a-long. Story on page 15. These are the People In Your Neighborhood Turn to page 23 to meet Lakelands neighbor Dr. Jon Sherman and learn more about his business, Kentlands Foot & Ankle. Volume 10 Issue 1 County Proposes Public Safety Campus at GE Tech Park By Andrea Escher R epresentatives from Montgomery County made a presentation to the City of Gaithersburg’s Mayor and Council on January 7. The presentation briefly touched on the proposal first announced by County Executive Isiah Leggett in December to relocate and upgrade several county operations to the 96-acre GE Tech Park adjacent to Lakelands off Main Street and Route 28. Leggett’s proposed plan includes the creation of a multi-use public safety headquarters in a six-story office building at the GE site. Included in the plan is the relocation of the County police headquarters, currently located on Research Boulevard in Rockville, the creation of a new 1st District police station, office space for the County’s Homeland Security division and Board of Elections, as well as classrooms and a gym for the Public Safety Lakelands Congratulates Holiday House Decorating Contest Winners How Did Lakelands Fare in 2007? Be sure to turn to page 16 to find out how Lakelands home sales fared in 2007. The results may surprise you! By Andrea Escher Training Academy. It has also been proposed that a firing range will be housed in the basement of the facility and a helipad will be constructed on the site, even though the County does not currently own a helicopter. The proposal references converting the 240,000 square foot warehouse occupied by Peapod by Giant delivery service for use by the County’s Department of Liquor Control. A new structure would also be See GE TECH PARK continued on page 3 Skate Components Committee Recommends Lakelands Park for Skate Plaza 74% of Neighbors Surveyed Say We Don’t Want a Skate Spot Liam Wins Big! Congratulations to Liam Walsh of Lakelands, the co-champion of Rachel Carson Elementary’s first annual Spelling Bee! Check out page 17 for all the details. By Andrea Escher A Return Address: The Lakelands Leader 960 Main Street Gaithersburg, MD 20878 S even years ago a tradition began in Lakelands, the community Holiday House Decorating Contest! Every December wreaths hang from front doors and windows, candle lights illuminate, fences are dawned in garland and trees and bushes sparkle with lights. Those who celebrate Hanukkah even find simple ways to spread the holiday spirit with window menorahs, lights and more. This year’s Holiday House Contest took on a different twist. Residents were asked to nominate the homes based upon three categories. Armed with the nomination forms in hand, the judges drove around the community during the day and night touring the competition. Judging was primarily based on the number of nominations each home received. The judges paid special attention to the homes that received several nomination forms. Congratulations are extended to the winners of the 2007 Holiday House Decorating Contest: Best Nighttime Display 707 Gatestone Street The Coulson Family Best Daytime Display 818 Gatestone Street The Burns Family Best Townhouse 448 Lynette Street The Nicholas Family Best Street Gatestone Street PRSRT-STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Permit #2666 Gaithersburg, MD Each of these top three award-winning homes will be receiving gift certificates courtesy of the Lakelands Community Association. We congratulate all the winners and all the residents who decorated. It seems as if more homes then ever found the time to add holiday touches and decorations this season. We hope everyone had a happy holiday and a Happy New Year. L fter reviewing seven locations for the construction of a skate plaza, the Ad Hoc Committee for Skate Components made a recommendation to the Mayor and City Council during a December 10 worksession to approve a 1,500 to 2,000 square foot skate spot to be located at Lakelands Park. Currently $40,000 has been budgeted for the skate spot. Committee members Mary Moore and Clark Wagner, a Lakelands resident, spoke on behalf of the fifteen member Committee. “We need a place for kids to skate,” said Moore. “Skateboarding targets children ages 12 to 14 years of age and there has been a growth of urban street skating. These kids want curbs, ledges, rails and steps to skate, they need a place that is more accessible than the Skate Park at Bohrer Park to do their sport.” After researching criteria from the seven sites under consideration, including safety/security issues, social concerns and amenity access, Moore said Lakelands Park scored the highest with Diamond Farms coming in second place and Kelly Park in third place. “Lakelands Park is easily accessible to the middle school and both the Kentlands and Lakelands communities, which is where the majority of See SKATE COMPONENTS continued on page 8 2 The Lakelands Leader January/February 2008 JANUARY/FEBRUARY calendarofevents JAN. 23 Facilities Committee, 7:15 p.m. 2nd floor FEB. 19 Budget and Finance Committee Meeting, of Lakelands Clubhouse, contact Scott 7:00 p.m. 2nd floor of the Lakelands Fischthal at [email protected] or 301-963-2308 for more information. JAN. 24 FEB. 4 FEB. 11 FEB. 12 FEB. 13 Clubhouse. Contact Peter Frey at [email protected] for more information. Board of Directors Meeting, 7:00 p.m. 2nd floor of the Lakelands Clubhouse. Contact [email protected] for more information. FEB. 20 Design Review Committee Meeting, 7:15 p.m. 2nd floor of the Lakelands Clubhouse. Contact Eric Kessler at [email protected] for more information. FEB. 21 Communications Committee Meeting, 6:30 p.m. 2nd floor of the Lakelands Clubhouse. Contact Joe Mills for more information at [email protected] for more information. Community Relations Committee Meeting, 7:00 p.m. 2nd floor of the Lakelands Clubhouse. Social Committee Meeting, 7:00 p.m. 2nd floor of the Lakelands Clubhouse. Contact Kelli Knight at [email protected] or Kelly Scheer at [email protected]. Environmental Management & Beautification Committee, 7:00 p.m. Red Room (1st floor) of the Lakelands Clubhouse. History & Political Discussion Group, 7:30 p.m. Green Room (1st floor) of the Lakelands Clubhouse. Contact Mickey Stevens at [email protected] January/February 2008 FEB. 25 FEB. 27 FEB. 28 Deadline for the March Lakelands Leader edition. Please contact Andrea at [email protected] for more information. Swim Team Committee Meeting, 7:00 p.m. Green Room of the Lakelands Clubhouse. Book Club, 7:30 p.m. in the Red Room (1st floor) of the Lakelands Clubhouse. Contact Mickey at [email protected]. Deadline for Design Review Applications for the March DRC meeting. Please contact the on-site management office at 240631-8338 for an application. Facilities Committee, 7:15 p.m. 2nd floor of Lakelands Clubhouse, contact Scott Fischthal at [email protected] or 301-963-2308 for more information. Heathwalk Condominium Meeting, 7:00 p.m. in the Green Room of the Lakelands Clubhouse. Board of Directors Meeting, 7:00 p.m. 2nd floor of the Lakelands Clubhouse. Contact [email protected] for more information. GE TECH PARK Continued from page 1 build to house Montgomery County Public School’s food warehouse. The County would have to purchase the property from Avalon Bay Communities, Inc. and the warehouse space from Finmarc. “The GE Tech Park is the ‘‘preferred site” for Leggett’s plan but presents a ‘‘once-in-a-half-century opportunity” to upgrade and expand a number of aging county facilities, said assistant Chief Administrative Officer Diane Schwartz Jones. ‘‘This plan is really in its infancy at this point. We’ve done the legwork to see if it makes sense, and clearly it does make sense,” said Jones. Since the plan was announced both the City and residents of Kentlands and Lakelands have expressed concern with the possibly of increased noise and traffic if the plan was to be approved. ‘‘There has been no communication with the Lakelands Board of Directors or the community about this,” said Mike Aubrey, a Board of Directors member. Aubrey said he, along with his fellow Board members, are interested to learn more about the plans and expects the City and County to allow Lakelands to be a part of the discussions. “We as a community need to be involved in the process, so we can learn how this will impact our residents,” said Aubrey. Since the GE Tech Park sits adjacent to Lakelands and with warehouses backing up to homes in Lane in the Woods, the Board as well as residents feel the City and County need to keep the community abreast of all plans for the site. The GE Tech Park was annexed into the City of Gaithersburg in 1989, therefore as a courtesy, the County will more than likely be required by the City to go through the proper approval process with the Planning Commission and Mayor and Council before any changes to the site will be made. Jones said the County is open to discussions with the City. Before plans can move forward with the City, the Montgomery County Council will have to approve the relocation plans. Jones said she is confident that in the coming months the County and City will jointly host a series of public meetings for the communities to learn more about the project. L The Lakelands Leader 3 L lakelandsinnbrieef The L AKELANDS eader The Official Newspaper of Lakelands LCA Board of Directors Beverly Frey [email protected] Patrick McCalley [email protected] Linda Wiesman By Andrea Escher Holiday Tree Recycling Continues Through January The City of Gaithersburg would like to remind residents of the annual holiday tree recycling program. Lakelands residents should place their trees out with their regular recyclables. Tree collection will take place every Thursday in Lakelands through January 24. We ask that you remove all ornaments, lights and tree stands from your tree. Should you have any questions please contact the City of Gaithersburg's Public Works Department at 301-258-6370. Holiday Decoration Reminder The holidays are over! But there are still a few homes in the community sporting their holiday décor. We ask all homeowners to take a moment and remove your Halloween pumpkins, Christmas wreaths, lights, garland, etc. We thank you for your cooperation! [email protected] Mike Aubrey [email protected] Mickey Stevens Phone Directory Is On the Way At press time, the Lakelands Leader has learned the 2008 Lakelands Community Phone Directory will be delivered to residents sometime in early March. The Communications Committee is currently deciding if the Directory will be mailed to all homeowners or hand delivered to each house. So please watch for your 2008 Directory coming soon! Change Your Light Bulbs We know it's the middle of winter and you are really not in the mood to change your outside light bulbs, but please change them! By turning your lights on and keeping your front residences and alleys will lit, this will help to deter any possible crime in the community. Also by lighting up the alleys during this snowy season, it enables the snow crews to plow your alleyway during the evening hours. Thanks for your cooperation. Are You New to Lakelands? Welcome! Please take a moment to stop by the Lakelands clubhouse on Main Street to pick up your copy of the Lakelands Leader, phone directory, Clubhouse access card, and any additional information you may need to help you easily transition to your new home in Lakelands. Just a quick FYI: trash is removed on Monday and Thursday, and recycling is collected on Thursday. To obtain a recycling bin, please contact the City of Gaithersburg at 301-2586370. For more information about life The Crows Are Feasting On Your Trash! [email protected] MANAGEMENT CMI 240-631-8338 EDITOR & ADVERTISING MANAGER Andrea Escher 301-519-1678 [email protected] 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 Cristina Strigel 703-777-7676 4 The Lakelands Leader L akelands neighbors have been placing their trash bags out in the alleyways without containers and the crows are having a great time spreading your trash all over the street. Please take the time to place all bagged trash into a sealed container with a lid. Not only will your trash be protected, it will help keep the food, papers and magazines from blowing around the community should the crows tear open the bags. We thank you for your continued cooperation. L in Lakelands, please contact the on-site management team at 240-631-8338. January & February Board of Directors Meeting The Lakelands Community Association Board of Directors will resume their monthly Board meeting schedule on Thursday, January 24, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. The Board will host their February meeting on Thursday, February, 28, 2008. L Public Invited to Comment on Kentlands Commercial District Special Study Area As Part of Master Plan Amendment I n the fall of 2007 the City of Gaithersburg and its partner, HOK Planning Group, hosted a planning charrette that brought together City officials and staff, key stakeholders, the regional community and the design team in a transparent process of discovery and problem-solving. A draft plan was developed, which serves as a proposed vision for the study area, encompassing the retail centers and commercial uses along Kentlands Boulevard from Quince Orchard Road to Great Seneca Highway. The next stage of the process involves a joint public hearing to amend the 2003 Land Use Element of the Gaithersburg Master Plan to incorporate the Kentlands Commercial District Special Study Area. Public comment is invited at the joint public hearing, which has been tentatively scheduled for Monday, March 17, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. in the Gaithersburg City Hall Council Chambers, 31 South Summit Avenue. For additional information please call 301-258-6330. Details on the charrette process and outcomes can also be found at www.kentlandsboulevard.com. L BUILDING GOOD DENTAL HEALTH ONE TOOTH AT A TIME January/February 2008 January/February 2008 The Lakelands Leader 5 Foundation Extends Thanks to Supporters Of the Annual “Tree of Warmth” Clothing & Shoe Drive By Bridget Ryder O Photo Courtesy: Bridget Ryder n behalf of the Foundation’s Board of Directors and our partners at the City of Gaithersburg, we want to thank everyone who participated in the “Tree of Warmth” winter clothing drive and the “Shoe Santa” shoe drive this year. Times are very tough this year, so we asked you to help us collect more clothing and shoes than in the past. To see the Tree covered on every limb with hats, scarves, and mittens, and the base of the Tree surrounded by new jackets and 40 wrapped boxes of shoes and boots is a sight that would warm any heart. Because of your generosity, there will be many local children who will stay warmer this winter. Thank you! L Bridget Ryder, Kentlands Foundation Manager and Andrew Moneyheffer of DPZ, along with 39 others, proudly sponsored the “Shoe Santa” program in Kentlands this holiday season. What conditions can be helped with chiropractic care? Lower back pain Sciatica Headaches Neck pain Whiplash Sports Injuries Arthritis Fatigue Chronic pain Numbness and tingling of the extremities Poor Posture Dr. Gregory Swistak & Family Dr. Gregory Swistak Palmer Graduate 60 Market Street, Suite 215 Gaithersburg, MD 20878 (301) 963-8333 www.swistakchiro.com Now offering acupuncture and massage therapy services. “Chiropractic treatment relieved my pain, allowed me to continue my training and ultimately complete the Marine Corp. Marathon in 4 hrs.” — Kent S. “After just my first treatment the numbness was reduced significantly. I no longer had numbness along the outer edge of my foot. After almost four weeks me feet are almost numbness free.” — Nancy K. Not receiving the monthly e-flyer? Then register your e-mail address on www.lakelands.org and don’t miss any of the immediate news and events announcements as they happen. 6 The Lakelands Leader “I had terrible posture and a pronounced forward head posture and its greatly improved. I have almost no lower back pain now thanks to Dr. Swistak!” — Heather P. Call to sign up for the FREE one-hour trigger point workshop! Se habla espa~ nol • Most insurance plans accepted January/February 2008 Liberty Screens Quality Retractable SCREENS Simplicity and Functionality at its best... Retractable Screen Doors Ideal for Double French Doors, Single Doors, Patio Sliders, and more. Motorized Power Screens Our screens silently retract out of their housing when you need them and smoothly retract back when you don’t. It’s that simple! Ideal for Patios, Porches, Lanais, Verandas, and more.. • 100% made in the USA • Custom size, fit, color • Powder coated finish in 230 custom colors • Lifetime warranty on the housing and all interior components • 10 year warranty on Super Screens mesh – pet and child friendly mesh www.libertyscreens.com January/February 2008 “Experience the freedom...” FREE Consultation 703.992.7001 1-888-662-8477 MD • DC • VA If screened-in porch is the problem... SCREENEZE is the solution! Call us for more details on the new worry-free screening system for existing or new screened-in porches. The Lakelands Leader 7 SKATE COMPONENTS Continued from page 1 skaters are asking for the spot,” said Moore. “We have chosen three locations at Lakelands Park as possible sites for the skate spot,” said Moore. Site A is located 150 feet from the closest home on Main Street and is situated between Billy’s Playground and the pavilion. Site B is located between the baseball and soccer fields and Site C, the furthest away, is closer to the ball fields near GE Tech Park. The Committee is proceeding with design plans and requesting the Mayor and Council approve Site A for the skate spot. According to Tim “Smitty” Smith of the City of Gaithersburg Parks, Recreation and Culture Department, the components being proposed for the skate spot will be less than two feet in size. “For insurance purposes and because we do not want to attract older children, we are recommending the smaller skate spot,” said Smith. “We anticipate an average of four to eight children skating at one time.” Smith also told the Mayor and Council that he would like to see several of these smaller skate spots constructed around the City. More than 70 citizens attended the worksession and more than 40 addressed the Mayor and Council. “We need a place to skate and not get kicked out,” said Kentlands youngster John Messer. “We would respect the skate spot and not trash it up.” Lakelands Community Association Board of Directors Member Mike Aubrey spoke on behalf of the LCA Board stating that 74% of Lakelands residents surveyed online via www.lakelands.org were opposed to the skate plaza at Lakelands Park. “We have more Lakelands residents speaking out on this issue then the GE Tech Park proposal for additional homes,” said Aubrey. “Residents who live in prox- 8 The Lakelands Leader imity to the Park will be unofficial supervisors of the unsupervised skate plaza and that is not fair to them. The LCA Board has asked the City to relocate the skate plaza to the Aquatic Center and if that is not possible, then locate the plaza near the GE Tech Park side of the field, the farthest from the homes.” When asked why the City did not consider construction a skate plaza at the future Aquatic Center adjacent to Kentlands and Lakelands on Route 28, Smith said, “There is a limitation with space and while it would score well in some senses, it would be a very bad design due to the traffic.” Smith also said that the biggest strike against moving the skate plaza to the Center would be the lack of use. “Placing the skate plaza at the Center would make it removed from homes and the school, so children will have a harder time accessing the location.” Lakelands neighbor Annabelle Gerendasy, whose husband Dan is on the Skate Components Committee, said she is just looking for a safe place for her children to skate. “The trend is skating and I don’t want my children skating in the street because they do not have a safe, alternative place to skate,” said Gerendasy. Main Street neighbor Ian Kessler, who lives a few blocks down from the The Ad Hoc Skate Component Committee has recommended Site A at Lakelands Park for the skate plaza spot. proposed site, said, “Skatboarding will happen, it doesn’t matter where you put them but Lakelands Park is too close to too many homes.” “I am already concerned about the quality of life in my home for myself as well as my children,” said Kersten Street neighbor Nicole Beane. Beane, who already has a toddler and is expecting a newborn this month, said her home is overwhelmed with noise from the synagogue and Billy’s Playground. “My husband and I have called the non-emergency police line numerous times due to the loitering and noise at the playground at night,” said Beane. “I am just concerned with the skate spot being located at the Park and steps from my home that it is going to add more noise and chaos to an already problematic location.” Joanne Shimke, President of the West Riding Homeowners Association, told the Council she would be in favor of having the City construct a pilot skate spot in the West Riding community first before components are designed for Lakelands Park. City Councilmember Mike Sesma said he understands there are concerns of the people opposed to the plan and the Council will take them into consideration. “An idea like the skate spot keeps children off the streets and provides a place where the kids can skate safely,” said Sesma. “It gets them out of the alleys, streets and shopping centers and the plan presented is a good template to start with.” According to City of Gaithersburg Parks, Recreation and Culture Director Michele McGleish, utilities at Lakelands Park will be marked at all three possible sites in the Park. “We need to know what is where before we start digging,” said McGleish. Once the utilities at the site have been evaluated, McGleish says staff will be meeting with Planning and Code as well as the police department. “We fully intend to make a final report to the Mayor and Council in the next month regarding the site.” L Skate Park Survey The City of Gaithersburg is considering building an unsupervised skate park. One of the seven locations under consideration is Lakelands Park. At this time, the plans are only conceptual with no exact plan being approved. Also no exact location within Lakelands Park has been chosen, but most discussions have been about having the skate park on the 'front side' of Lakelands Park, near Main Street. Are you in favor or opposed to a skate park being located in Lakelands Park? Total Community Surveys Received: 87 "Opposed" 62 votes 71% "In Favor" 25 votes 29% January/February 2008 January/February 2008 The Lakelands Leader 9 from the desiggn revieew committtee At the regularly scheduled December 3, 2007 meeting of the Lakelands Design Review Committee, the following five (5) applications were reviewed. Yelena Korepanova 713 B Main Street Install Storm Door – Approved Claudette Bernstein 409 Placid Mews Install picket fence with gate Declined: Per inspection by DRC member pickets applied for do not match fence that was recently installed. Robin Schuldenfrei 413 Placid Mews Replace two garage light fixtures that face the alley – Approved Groff Minkin 930 Rockborn Street Install front & side storm door – Approved Install basketball hoop – Approved Hossein Akbari 401 Stonemason Drive Basketball board on back of house on left side of garage - Declined: Application incomplete need plat and location of pole & picture of new backboard 10 The Lakelands Leader Gaithersburg Announces Results of Citizen Survey I n an independent survey conducted by the National Research Center, 75% of respondents gave the overall quality of life in Gaithersburg a rating of “good” or “excellent,” while services provided by City government were rated as “good” or “excellent” by 76% of respondents. The findings of the survey will be presented to the Gaithersburg Mayor and Council as part of the 2008 strategic planning process on Monday, January 14 at 7:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. The full results of the survey are available online at www.gaithersburgmd.gov. “This survey is an important tool for all of us who are involved in the delivery of service to Gaithersburg residents,” said Mayor Sidney Katz. “We’re delighted that the City rated well in overall quality of life, and we look forward to addressing those areas where our citizens expressed concern. This gives us a good road map as we begin the FY 09 budget process and set our priorities for the coming year.” In the fall of 2007, 1,200 City of Gaithersburg residents were randomly selected to participate in a mail-in survey to evaluate City services, programs and policies. The data is intended to help elected officials and City staff prioritize strategic initiatives and direct resources. Twenty one percent of the residents returned the 33-question survey, which is within the average response rate experienced by the National Research Center. Results were tabulated and categorized under the broad headings of Community Life and Local Government. Community Life covered such topics as overall quality of life, access to educational and recreational opportunities, sense of community, job opportunities, access to affordable housing, ease of travel within the community, public safety, and community participation. Seventy five percent of the respondents rated the overall quality of life in Gaithersburg as “good” or “excellent.” The highest rated characteristics were shopping and recreational opportunities and overall appearance. When asked about the potential problems in Gaithersburg, the three concerns rated by the highest proportion of respondents were traffic congestion, drugs and too much growth. Also, seventy percent of the respondents rated the population growth in Gaithersburg as “too fast.” Topics within the Local Government category included perceptions of value for taxes paid, openness to citizen involvement, quality of public safety, transportation, leisure, utility, planning and code enforcement, and special population services, and experiences of interaction with City of Gaithersburg employees. When asked about their impressions of City staff, those who had been in contact with a City of Gaithersburg employee within the past 12 months rated their overall impression particularly high, putting the City in the 85th percentile or above nationwide for knowledge, responsiveness and courtesy. When asked if they were pleased with the overall direction taken by the City, residents gave an average rating of 68 on a 100-point scale, putting Gaithersburg in the 90th percentile nationwide. In normative comparisons to communities throughout the country, Gaithersburg was at or above the norm for most categories. The City was rated below the norm as a place to retire, for access to affordable quality housing, for both violent and property crime, for safety in its downtown area and parks, and for safety within neighborhoods after dark. As assessed by the survey, about 10% of Gaithersburg residents have lived in the community for more than 20 years, and 66% are over the age of 34. Another 13% are over the age of 64. Eighty four percent are currently employed; 52% rent, 48% own and 19% live in detached single family homes. Over 86% of Gaithersburg residents have at least some college and 66% have annual household incomes above $50,000. Fourteen percent of Gaithersburg residents reported that they are Spanish, Hispanic or Latino and 56% said they are White or Caucasian. The National Citizen Survey™ is sponsored by the International City/County Management Association in cooperation with the National Research Center, Inc. The survey was designed based on the experience of hundreds of local governments of all sizes. Scientific sampling and weighting of the responses in each city ensured accurate and reliable results. For more information please contact the Office of the City Manager at 301-2586310 or [email protected]. L January/February 2008 January/February 2008 The Lakelands Leader 11 assignmenteducation By Gina Dropik Photo Courtesy: John Gresh Winter Break Is Over and It’s Back to School for RCES Students The cast of Pirate School hopes to see you in the audience on February 8 or February 9. O n January 2 students returned to Rachel Carson Elementary School (RCES) after a 10-day winter break. Many fun activities filled days prior to the break. On Monday evening, December 17 the Rachel Carson chorus and advanced band presented their annual Winter Concert at Quince Orchard High School. The first annual RCES Spelling Bee was held on December 19. Principal Larry Chep said it was very successful. In November classroom spelling bees were held in all third, fourth and fifth grade classes. The top two spellers in each class advanced to the school-wide Spelling Bee, which was held in the evening and was open to the public. “I believe we had over 100 people in the audience,” Chep said. 12 The Lakelands Leader The event ended in a tie between 4th grader Liam Walsh and 5th grader Zoe Smith. Principal Larry Chep is currently working on a special project at the MCPS central office while Principal Intern Yolanda Sanislaus assumes the role of Acting Principal. Kathy Bainbridge has joined the staff as Acting Assistant Principal until Chep returns in the spring. Kindergarten Open Houses will be held on January 14, February 4 and March 3, beginning at 9:15 a.m. This is a chance for parents who are considering sending their children to kindergarten at RCES next fall. Acting Principal Yolanda Stanislaus will meet with the parents to discuss the program and answer questions. Parents will also have the opportunity to visit the Continued on facing page January/February 2008 Continued from previous page kindergarten classes. All children who are five years old by September 1, 2008 are eligible for kindergarten in the fall. This is a wonderful opportunity for parents who are new to the school to see what Rachel Carson has to offer their children. Open Houses are for parents only. Children are invited to join their parents at Kindergarten Orientation on April 24 and 25. All Montgomery County schools are closed on Monday, January 21 in observance of Martin Luther King Day and Tuesday, January 22 for a staff professional day. The Montgomery County Board of Education approved the calendar for the 2008-2009 school year, which will begin on Monday, August 29, 2008 and end on Tuesday, June 16, 2009. The entire calendar is available on the MCPS website at www.mcps.k12.md.us. With the winter weather upon us parents are reminded that information about weather-related school closings is announced on area radio and television stations; on the internet at www.mcps.k12.md.us or Schoolsout.com; and on a taped telephone message service at 301-279-3673. If schools are closed or delayed, the announcement will be made no later than 6:00 a.m. If schools are closing early, the announcements are made by 11:00 a.m. Please remember to look for this article each month to find out about all of the happenings at Rachel Carson throughout the school year. Lakelands Park Middle School News The Lakelands Park Middle School (LPMS) Drama Club will be presenting the debut of a new play titled Pirate School on February 8 and 9 at the school. Pirate School was written by Kristen Ehrenspeck, sponsor of the club. Ehrenspeck teaches eighth grade English and seventh grade Journalism at LPMS. This is her second year with the school and her second year sponsoring the Drama Club. She says the students inspired her to write the play. “Last year the students said they wanted to do a pirate play, so I purchased every script I could find, but none of them seemed to fit,” she said. “I just kept thinking each one would have been so much better if only this or that were different. I love to write, so I figured I’d just write it myself.” Ehrenspeck said the inspiration came to her one day during the summer. “I sat down and wrote from 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 a.m. It just flowed out of me. I’ve never had that kind of experience before,” she said. Auditions were held in October and rehearsals began in November with a cast of 40 students. “These kids are so dedicated. We have a full cast, plus understudies,” said Ehrenspeck. “So many students auditioned. When I saw how talented they were I decided I had to create more speaking parts. That’s the great part about doing my own play. I can make whatever changes I want as we go along.” Seventh grader Kathy Naneyshvili is an actor in the play. “I enjoy that all of the kids really seem to interact with one other and you get to have fun and work at the same time,” said Naneyshvili. “It’s a very interesting club to be in. Who knows… someone could see you performing and you can get discovered by a talent scout!” Ehrenspeck said that when writing Pirate School she tried to appeal to both kids and adults. She describes it as a comedy with the main theme being the common struggle between kids and parents agreeing on what is best for them. It is the story of John Silver who wants to impress Stella Darrington. He goes to Pirate School to try to win her hand, January/February 2008 but it isn’t what anyone expected, especially since it is taught by Captain Hook. “The story is about John and his friends, Stella and her parents, and the class at Pirate School. At some point all of the character’s lives cross, and there’s a twist at the end that I think the audience will like,” said Ehrenspeck. “The staff and parents have all been so supportive and I really appreciate the help of the PTSA,” said Ehrenspeck. She credits John Gresh, a Kentlands neighbor and father of actor Steven Gresh for helping build the set. “I couldn’t do it without him,” she said. In addition, several students make up the stage crew. Seventh grader Jack Waffle said, “I like to work with my hands and have something that was practically nothing, turn into something amazing. Without stage crew, there really wouldn’t be a production because you need them for all the costumes, lights, and sound effects. It is amazing what kids can do. To build and operate lights is fun!” Ehrenspeck said, “I feel so fortunate to be able to do this at LPMS.” She is a graduate of Paint Branch High School in Montgomery County. She received a degree in English and Speech Education from the University of Maryland and has been teaching for five years. She hopes to one day publish Pirate School and says she will dedicate it to the students at LPMS. Tickets for the show are available at the school for $5.00 prior to the show or $6.00 at the door on the night of the performances. “However, if you bring a canned good or come dressed as a pirate you will get the $5 admission,” said Ehrenspeck. “It is very family friendly.” The production will be presented in two acts with an intermission. Baked goods, beverages and other snacks will be available for sale as well as pirate souvenirs. In the event of snow the show will be presented on February 15 and 16. All funds raised will go directly to the Drama Club. L The Lakelands Leader 13 who’snews HAPPY BIRTHDAY! H appy birthday to Bobby Faraone! Bobby will be celebrating his 4th birthday on February 12 with a party full of his family and friends. We hope you have a super birthday and be sure to enjoy that cake and ice cream. H appy belated birthday to Annie Faraone! Annie was busy celebrating her 2nd birthday on January 8. Annie had a special party with her family and friends and her mom says she received lots of great presents. H appy birthday to Andrew Miles Shea! Andrew will be busy celebrating his 1st birthday on January 17. Andrew’s family says he is a happy baby who loves to smile and giggle and will celebrating this big birthday with his family and friends. We hope you have a super 1st birthday! H appy birthday to Hailey Rubin! Hailey celebrated her 6th birthday on January 12 with a birthday party with her friends at Chuck E. Cheese. We hope you had a great birthday and received lots of presents. H appy belated birthday to Darren Rubin! Darren celebrated his 6th birthday on December 22 with a fun-filled football party at the Kidz Club at Rio Sport and Health. We hope you had a great birthday! H appy birthday to Emma and Bella Neal! The twins will be celebrating their 4th birthday on February 10 with a special Barbie gymnastics party. We hope you both have a wonderful birthday and be sure to enjoy that cake and ice cream. Got Lakelands news or photos? Share it with your friends and neighbors in Lakelands! Contact the LEADER today at [email protected] 14 The Lakelands Leader January/February 2008 Community Children’s Chorus Gives Debut Performance By Bridget Ryder, Foundation Manager O January/February 2008 Photos Courtesy: Nancy Williams n December 16 the Kentlands Mansion was filled with the sound of music when the Kentlands/Lakelands Children’s Chorus performed in its debut holiday concert. The group of thirty-three children ages 4-13 practiced all Fall to prepare for the concert, and didn’t disappoint as they sang their hearts out. The Chorus, led by Chorus Director Polly Edmonds, a University of Maryland Master’s graduate of Vocal Performance and Instruction, sang a full 20-minute program of holiday songs and finished the performance with “Let There be Peace on Earth.” Edmonds then awed the packed Mansion with a solo of “O Holy Night.” All the children received Certificates of Achievement and enjoyed holiday goodies after their performance. Following the concert, the Foundation hosted its annual Holiday Sing-Along, led by pianist and Kentlands resident Elie Canetti. Raffle prizes were awarded for correct answers to trivia questions, jingle bells rang out, and the carolers even got a surprise visit from Santa Claus! The spring semester of the Community Children’s Chorus began on Monday January 14. All children ages 4-18 are welcome, no matter where they live. There will be a spring concert in May (date TBA). Registration forms are available on the Foundation’s website at www.kentlands.org. L The Lakelands Leader 15 lakelandslistings Compiled by the Prigal Brothers, Re/Max Realty FOR SALE How Did Lakelands Home Sales Fare in 2007? Address Housing Type Model Builder List Price DOM 538 Bright Meadow Drive Townhouse Jefferson Michael Harris $569,900 81 352 Chestertown Street Townhouse Georgetown Miller & Smith $619,900 77 316B Cross Green Street Condo-Town Mt. Vernon Ryland $449,900 65 330A Cross Green Street Condo-Town Georgetown Ryland $399,900 52 210B Heathwalk Street Condo-Town Mt. Vernon Ryland $424,000 41 660 Heathwalk Mews Cottage Main Street $439,900 265 613 Lake Varuna Drive Single Family Abernathy NV Homes $949,900 104 801 Linslade Street Single Family Michener Ryan Homes $859,999 110 By Andrea Escher 453 Lynette Street Single Family $789,000 19 407 Main Street Townhouse Parkwood $664,000 234 626A Main Street Condo-Town Ryland $434,900 33 ith reports of the real estate market being the slowest on record in the past four years, a New Year prompts residents to wonder if the slow market had any affect on home sales in Lakelands in 2007. In 2007, Lakelands saw 95 homes sold Georgetown 965 Main Street Townhouse Tarquin Ryan Homes $679,900 237 1123 Main Street Townhouse Tarquin Ryan Homes $550,000 123 1131 Main Street Single Family $525,000 33 1231 Main Street Single Family Bartholomew NV Homes $900,000 203 1421 Main Street Single Family NV Homes $849,900 184 254B Market Street East Condo-Town Ryland $439,900 159 441 Placid Street Cottage Main Street $579,900 124 869 Still Creek Lane Single Family Dartmouth NV Homes $1,195,000 103 Address Housing Type Model Builder List Price DOM 726 Turtle Pond Lane Single Family NV Homes $989,000 14 Mt. Vernon UNDER CONTRACT SOLD Address Housing Type Model Builder List Price Sold Price DOM 461 Clayhall Street Townhouse Fairgate Ryan Homes $515,000 $478,000 145 315B Cross Green Street Condo-Town Mt. Vernon Ryland $435,000 $417,500 6 902 Featherstone Street Townhouse Michael Harris $608,000 $585,000 33 422 Kersten Street Townhouse Vanderbilt NV Homes $554,875 $532,500 129 484 Lynette Street Townhouse Fairgate Ryan Homes $529,999 $529,999 8 706A Main Street Condo-Town Georgetown Ryland $414,000 $403,000 44 563 Market Street East Townhouse Turnberry Classic $529,000 $519,000 139 481 Phelps Street Townhouse Tarquin Ryan Homes $659,956 $645,000 66 Address Housing Type Model Builder Rent Rate DOM 625 Chestnut Hill Mews Townhouse Fairgate Ryan Homes $2,500 37 711B Main Street Condo-Townhouse Mt. Vernon Ryland $1,920 7 720 Market Street East ownhouse Classic $2,400 39 FOR RENT W with an average 84 days on the market compared to 2006, when Lakelands saw 91 homes sold with an average of 58 days on the market. A quick comparison showed that Lakelands came in second place in 2007 home sales with the neighboring Rockville planned community of King Farm seeing the highest number of sold signs with 104 sales followed by Lakelands with 95 home sales and Kentlands selling 77 homes in 2007. Fallsgrove, another nearby Rockville community, sold only 39 homes in 2007. While only four more homes sold in Lakelands in 2007 compared to 2006, the community did see a significant increase in the number of condominiumtownhouse units sold. While the average list price fell lower in 2007 than 2006, the days homes sat on the market also slightly increased. Based upon these statistics, it is safe to say that Lakelands did not feel the burden of a slow real estate market during 2007, and that’s good news to Lakelands homeowners. L 2006 Solds 2007 Solds Townhouses 43 sold $592,442 average sold price 57 days on the market Townhouses 45 sold $571,206 average sold price 58 days on the market Single Family 32 sold $886,444 average sold price 59 days on the market Single Family 24 sold $812,094 average sold price 108 days on the market A Unit Condominiums 8 sold $416,638 average sold price 69 days on the market A Unit Condominiums 14 sold $412,643 average sold price 45 days on the market B Unit Condominiums 8 sold $461,337 average sold price 53 days on the market B Unit Condominiums 14 sold $431,014 average sold price 54 days on the market Listings as of 1/08/08 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. Summer Sports Camp June 16 – August 18 Call for Details 16 The Lakelands Leader Interested in a Lakelands Playgroup? L akelands neighbor Kerri Donnelly, the mother of a 17-month old son, is looking to organize a playgroup for Lakelands children ages 12 to 24 months to meet once a week. The exact day and time will be determined based upon resident interest. If you are interested in joining a Lakelands Playgroup, please call Kerri Donnelly at 301-947-4332 or e-mail [email protected]. L January/February 2008 Lakelands Own Walsh Is RCES Spelling Bee Co-Champion! Photo Courtesy: Larry Chep Walsh, a forth grader, and Zoe Smith, a fifth grader, were the last two remaining contestants. Walsh and Smith dueled through several more rounds, but by this time, the words were too challenging, even for these two. At last, RCES Principal Larry Chep and the four judges declared a draw, naming Walsh and Smith CoChampions of this first-ever event at RCES. Walsh’s comments leaving the RCES auditorium were, “Now this is Congratulations to Liam Walsh and Zoe Smith, the what I call exciting!” Needless to say, Liam’s winners of the first annual Rachel Carson Spelling Bee. parents, Greg and Pauline, and younger brother Sean he Lakelands neighbor Liam Walsh par- were thrilled and proud for Liam. Greg ticipated in the first annual Rachel acknowledged, “He get’s it from his Carson Elementary School Spelling Bee mother.” on Wednesday, December 19 and won! Other known Lakelands contestants Twenty-six finalists who competed in included Hannah Pearlstein (3rd grade) the Spelling Bee that evening were the and Megan McDanald (4th grade). first and second-place finishers in their Many proud parents and friends were in respective classrooms, from the 3rd 4th attendance. and 5th grades. “It was apparent that these twenty-six After many rounds of spelling words children were very good spokespeople for that continued to grow in difficulty, all that Rachel Carson Elementary School is,” said Greg Walsh. “They demonstrated the impact that RCES has had on them, not just in terms of their ability to spell, but the professional and respectful manner in which they presented themselves in what obviously can be seen as a very difficult circumstance ... individually competing on stage in the presence of a watchful audience. It is hard to believe that these kids are only in 3rd, 4th and 5th grades. They should all be proud that they earned hen the Lakelands Facilities their opportunity to be on that stage to Committee would like to hear represent their respective classrooms and from you! Lakelands neighbors are grades, regardless of the outcome. They being asked to attend the Wednesday, are all champions for being there.” January 23, 2008 Facilities Committee meeting to openly discuss their opinions and comments on the last summer’s pool experience. Before the Facilities Committee makes a decision regarding the pool management con- Walsh says his son Liam is a naturally a good speller, but he also was very diligent in preparing for the competition. “He is self-motivated in the sense that he wanted us to continue quizzing him during the couple of weeks that preceded the event,” said Walsh. “When he finished his regular homework each night, if time allowed, he would focus his ‘cross hairs’ on studying for the Spelling Bee. By the night of the competition, he felt good about what he had studied and was ready to take a whack at it.” The Lakelands wishes to extend their congratulations to Liam Walsh upon his Spelling Bee success! L We’re Ahead of Our Time T Got Comments on the Pool Management Company? T Mission Statement “My associates and I are sincerely committed to providing you with the most advanced dental techniques and pain-free treatments, in a friendly and comfortable environment.” Robert J. Kelly D.D.S. and Associates, P.A. 301-948-0058 832 Quince Orchard Blvd., Gaithersburg 301-949-2280 10335 Kensington Pkwy., Kensington 301-519-3232 220 Main Street, Kentlands, Gaithersburg www.kellydds.com Lakelands neighbors are being asked to openly discuss their opinions and comments on the last summer’s pool experience. tract for summer 2008, the Committee is interested in hearing residents’ thoughts on the pool management operations and any changes they would like to see considered for the summer. The meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 23, 2008 at 7:15 p.m. at the Lakelands Clubhouse. If you will not be able to attend the meeting, but would like to share your thoughts and comments on the pool management operations, please e-mail Committee Chairman Scott Fischthal at [email protected]. L January/February 2008 The Lakelands Leader 17 Main Street Café Now Open M ain Street Café, is now open at 317 Main Street in the site previously known as Ruby’s Café. Owners Nick and Noosh Nikakhtar are very excited about the opening. They have both worked in the restaurant industry for many years, but this is the first time they will own their own place. “I feel like this is my home,” said Noosh “and I feel like all of my customers are my guests.” The Nikakhtars have enlisted the help of Memar Sadeghi, of Memar and Company in the opening of the restaurant. Sadeghi has operated a number of Times Square restaurants, Hyatt restaurants and several country clubs and feels that the Café will be a success. The European-style café features a full menu including homemade soups, salads, appetizers, sandwiches, wraps, quiches, and more. “The menu is simple and yet committed to quality and freshness,” said Sageghi. He added they use only the freshest and most natural ingredients. Noosh’s passion is cooking and baking. She has completed classes at L’Academie de Cuisine in pastry techniques and cake decorating. The Café features a variety of her homemade desserts. In addition The Main Street Café offers a selection of international beers, a variety of wines, fruit smoothies, organic teas Photo Courtesy: Nancy Williams By Gina Dropik Nick and Noosh Nikakhtar are excited to meet their Lakelands neighbors at the new Main Street Cafe! from California, and ILLY Coffee from Italy. Memar said, “Guests will love the prices as much as the charming room and the great foods and wines.” Both Nick and Noosh plan to be at the Café fulltime. “We are giving the restaurant our full attention,” said Nick. They did not make many changes to the interior of the space. “From the first time we saw it we loved it,” he said. One addition is a hand-painted mural of a woman presenting a beautiful, fresh pie. A slideshow of scenic pictures of Europe runs on the television to give the Café a relaxing atmosphere. 18 The Lakelands Leader A variety of items are available for sale including European chocolates and candy, and homemade croutons. “We want to fill the space with food,” said Nick. The Nikakhtars are Gaithersburg residents and the parents of two daughters, ages 11 and 15, who are also very excited about the family’s business. Main Street Café is open for breakfast lunch and dinner. Hours are Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.; Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., and Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. L January/February 2008 Movie Event of the Year May Not Arrive In Market Square Kentlands Stadium 10 Not Sure if Hannah Montana Will Hit The Big Screen By Andrea Escher annah Montana fans everywhere will have a chance to see their favorite singer, songwriter and actress, Miley Cyrus, perform her sold-out “Hannah Montana Miley Cyrus - Best of Both Worlds Concert” on the big screen for one-week only with a special Disney Digital 3D presentation exclusively to movie theaters during the week of February 1-7, 2008. With concert tickets selling out nationwide, ticket sales for the Best of Both Worlds 3-D movie began selling the first week of December online through www.disney.com and online ticket retailers such as Fandango. Many of the time slots and dates have already sold-out. H Currently the only theaters in the local area slated to premiere the tour include Loews Rio Cinemas and Regal Rockville Cinema in the new Town Center. Currently the only theaters in the local area slated to premiere the tour include Loews Rio Cinemas and Regal Rockville Cinema in the new Town Center. The Lakelands Leader contacted Kentlands Stadium 10 to find out if the Best of Both Worlds concert will be arriving in Market Square. According to the Stadium 8 spokesperson, it is unknown at press time whether the theater will be receiving the film. Residents of Kentlands and Lakelands will have to wait till the end of January to find out if tickets will become available for the Kentlands theater. L January/February 2008 What Are They Reading? T he Lakelands Book Club has chosen “Suite Francaise” by Irene Nemirovsky for their upcoming Thursday, February 22, 2008 Book Club selection. The Club will meet at 7:30 p.m. The Book Club is already planning ahead for March! They have chosen the reading selection “Thin Air” by Jon Krakauer for their March meeting. The Lakelands Book Club is open to all Lakelands residents! New faces are always welcome and encouraged to attend. Suggestions for future Book Club readings would be appreciated. For questions or more information about the Lakelands Book Club please contact Mickey at [email protected]. History and Political Discussion Group The History and Political Discussion Group will be meeting on February 13, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. at the Lakelands Clubhouse. The Group will be discussing how the Presidential candidates stand on the issue of healthcare. For questions or more information about the History and Political Discussion Group, please contact Mickey at [email protected]. L Attention, Lakelands... New Avon Representative! You now have an Avon Representative/E-Representative in your community! Shop online for fast and easy service. To shop and email questions please visit my official Avon Store at www.youravon.com/jgarcia2682 - Jessica Garcia Independent Sales/E-Representative/Beauty Advisor The Lakelands Leader 19 news&events City Summer Camp Registration Begins January 23 The City of Gaithersburg is dedicated to providing your child with the best summer camp experience. To accomplish that, the City has three components to the summer camp program. The first component is the Specialty Camp Programs which include clinics such as basketball and tennis. Also included in the specialty camps are the School of Skate and the School of Basketball. The second component is the Youth Activity Programs. These YAP sites offer a day camp experience except in a shorter day, 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Finally, the All Day Camp Programs offer campers a full range of activities from games and sports to swimming and field trips. Dates to Remember: • Mid January: Summer Camp Guide available • January 23: Resident registration begins • March 3: Non-Resident registration begins • Camps are scheduled to begin June 16, 2008 The City looks forward to making this summer a safe, fun and educational experience for Gaithersburg families. For questions and more information please contact the main Recreation office at 301-258-6350 or [email protected]. Juggling Funny Stories, Slapstick Science and Black History in Harmony Gaithersburg’s “Schools Out for Arts,” a program that provides an opportunity for learning when Montgomery County Public Schools are closed, announces an exciting winter and spring 2008 lineup with performances by storyteller Chris Fascione, Slapstick Science with Dr. Albert Erg, and a journey through African-American history with the band Reverb. All three shows will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Arts Barn, 311 Kent Square Road in Kentlands. Chris Fascione’s “Juggling Funny Stories” combines storytelling, mime, juggling and comedy to create colorful characters from literature, who tell their stories as laughter abounds. He will perform on Tuesday, January 22, 2008. “Slapstick Science -- The Notion of Motion with Dr. Albert Erg” is guaranteed to excite your child’s curiosities and inspire their enthusiasm for science. His performance takes place on Wednesday, March 26, 2008. The five male singers of Reverb take audiences on an a cappella musical journey through African-American history, focusing on the social issues of 1619, 1886 and 1960 and today. The show is appropriate for families of all ages. Reverb performs on Monday, April 7, 2008. Tickets for each show are $5.00 for residents and $6.00 for non-residents. They may be purchased online at may be purchased online at www.gaithersburgmd.gov/RecXpress or by calling 301-258-6394. City Sponsors Bus Trip to American Girl Place New York The City of Gaithersburg invites you to spend a day you’ll never forget at American Girl Place New York. Situated in the heart of the Big Apple’s most prestigious shopping, cultural, and business neighborhood, American Girl Place New York is more than a store, it’s a place for magical experiences and memories. A deluxe motor coach will depart from the Activity Center at Bohrer Park, 506 S. Frederick Avenue, at 6:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 5. It is scheduled to arrive at American Girl Place New York at approximately 11:30 a.m. The day includes lunch at the American Girl Café at Noon, followed by admission to the “Circle of Friends: An American Girl Musical” at 1:40 p.m. Participants are then on their own to shop and enjoy the American Girl Place until the bus departs for Gaithersburg at 5:00 p.m. Return to the Activity Center is anticipated by 10:00 p.m. The fee of $110.00 for City residents and $140.00 for nonresidents includes deluxe motor coach transportation, lunch, and the musical show. Children must be at least 6years-old and in the company of an adult. For more information and to register please call 301-258-6350 purchase tickets online using RecXpress at www.gaithersburgmd.gov/RecXpress. Gaithersburg Area Newcomers Club New in town? Not only is moving a lot of work, but it can be lonely and frustrating as you adjust to a new community. You wonder where to shop, how to get involved in activities or simply how to meet other people and build new friendships. Or perhaps you’ve lived in the area for a while, but because of work, life style changes or other commitments, you have never had the opportunity to meet you neighbors. You’re not alone. Your neighbors were once new to the area and took advantage of the Gaithersburg Area Newcomer’s Club to become part of the community. Come join us. Through monthly meetings and various special interest groups, GANC offers a variety of activities that are helpful, fun, and entertaining. Our goal is to have newcomers and old comers meet and establish friendships! For more information about the Gaithersburg Area Newcomers Club, please contact Bev at 301.330.6197 or visit www.GEOcities.com/gancmd 20 The Lakelands Leader January/February 2008 Kentlands Considering Creating a Skate Spot Adjacent to Basketball Court By Andrea Escher T he Kentlands Citizens Assembly met with the City of Gaithersburg and members of the Ad Hoc Skate Components Committee to see if an area adjacent to their basketball court and tennis courts could serve as a site for a future skate spot in Kentlands. “We got the impression nothing was going to happen with the skate spot plan at Lakelands Park since the Lakelands community was objecting to it,” said Kentlands President Neil Harris. “We looked at our own site to see if we could make this happen and we are currently in the exploratory phase.” The site Kentlands is considering as a good location for a skate spot is currently a small concrete area set up as a shuffleboard court. The court sits inside the secured, fenced-in basketball court along Tschiffely Square Road. “A few members of the Skate Components Committee, as well as Neil and myself looked at the area to see if a skate spot would be feasible,” said Michele McGleish, Director of Parks, Recreation and Culture for the City of Gaithersburg. “Unfortunately we want the area to be accessible by all children and the fencing surrounding the site limits the use of the area to only children of Kentlands.” McGleish said if the City were to fund a skate spot in Kentlands, the area would have to be open and accessible for use by non-residents. In addition, McGleish said since the City has already budgeted $40,000 for a skate spot at Lakelands Park, the City would not provide funds for an additional site since the two communities are adjacent. “We have to January/February 2008 spread our funding around all areas of the City, not just one particular area or location,” said McGleish. The City currently owns three parcels of land within Kentlands; the Mansion lawn, the Village Green near Firehouse Lane and Little Quarry Park. When asked why these areas were not considered as a space for a skate spot, McGleish said the City was opposed to using these sites for skating use. “The Mansion lawn is out of the question since the area is used for weddings and upscale functions,” said McGleish. “The Village Green is used for Oktoberfest, City concerts and recreation by residents, so we can’t utilize that space. Little Quarry Park is encompassed by trees and we are a tree friendly City and do not want to cut down trees for a small spot.” Mary Moore, a Kentlands resident and member of the Ad Hoc Skate Components Committee, said the Committee was receptive to Kentlands invitation to find a useable space for a skate spot. “We think the Kentlands is a great location for a second spot,” said Moore. “But we don’t want to lose momentum for our original recommendation which is for the approval of a skate spot at Lakelands Park.” Kentlands neighbor John McCutcheon encouraged the Kentlands Board of Trustees to consider constructing a skate spot at the site regardless of the City’s funding assistance. “It’s only $40,000 and I’m sure we can find money in our budget to construct a private resident only skate spot,” said McCutcheon. “It’s obvious there is a need for this and I think it’s a great idea for the Kentlands to build its own for the residents.” McGleish said she commends both Harris and the Committee for taking an exploratory look at the site in Kentlands “Other municipalities are looking for us to lead the way when it comes to these skate spots,” said McGleish. “They want to see how we do it, how we set it up and how well it works. There is a need for our skaters to have a safe haven and we hope that we can eventually put skate spots all around the City.” L The Lakelands Leader 21 Get your business noticed in 2008! Contact us today at [email protected] to reserve your ad space with a low cost advertisement in the Lakelands Leader. 301-984-4092 22 The Lakelands Leader January/February 2008 these are thepeopleinnyourneigghborhood Dr. Jon Sherman, Kentlands Foot & Ankle By Gina Dropik W hen Dr. Jon Sherman moved to the Lakelands in 2001 he had recently graduated from medical school and was working as a podiatrist for a private practice. Sherman decided he wanted to start his own practice and knew that he wanted to open it in the Kentlands. “I felt there was a need for it here and I really like the people in the neighborhood,” he said. Sherman opened Kentlands Foot and Ankle on Main Street in 2003 and shared the space with another doctor. He enjoyed immediate success and after a couple of years decided to expand and move into the new building that was being built in the Kentlands Square Shopping Center, where he has a rotating of staff of three in addition to himself. “We get busier every quarter,” he said. He added that a majority of his patients come from within Kentlands and Lakelands. “Working and living in the same neighborhood decreases a lot of stress in my life,” he said. “I occasionally even walk or ride my bike to work.” Sherman, who was recently board certified in foot surgery, specializes in sports medicine and non-surgical treatment of athletic injuries. He provides medical treatments for all ages from babies to geriatric patients, including bunions, hammertoes, heel spurs, arch pain, plantar warts and more. He is in his office four days a week and normally performs surgeries one day a week as well. “Most of my procedures are done at Suburban Hospital,” he said “although minor procedures are done in the office.” One of his major focuses is relieving chronic heel pain, such as plantar fasciitis, in his patients. Sherman offers a new therapy called Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) which uses therapeutic pressure waves to relieve the pain. A native of Montgomery County, Sherman graduated from the Bullis School. He says he became interested in podiatry when as a child he visited a podiatrist for ingrown toenails. He received his undergraduate degree from The University of Wisconsin-Madison where he met is wife Justine. He then went on to graduate with honors from Temple School of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia, and subsequently did a three-year podiatric medicine and surgical residency at Tenet-Elkins Park Hospital, in Philadelphia. Sherman is a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and a Diplomat of The American Board of Podiatric Surgeons. He has served as a consultant for the Penn Relays and Marine Corps Marathon. Jon and Justine have two children, Madison (3 ½) and Sienna (15 months). “When we lived in Philadelphia we could walk to the market, restaurants and movies, so when we moved back here, that was important to us,” said Jon. They often walk to Midtown from their Main Street townhome. “We love the convenience of the parks and we support all of the neighborhood restaurants.” In addition he always has a booth at the Oktoberfest and is an annual sponsor of the Kentlands /Lakelands 5K. In his spare time Sherman enjoys golf, tennis and bike rid- ing. Once an avid runner, he had to give that up due to a knee injury. He recently returned from a ski trip in Utah. Justine works full time as a Meeting Planner for the Association of Financial Professionals in Bethesda. The couple will celebrate their tenth wedding anniversary in May. Kentlands Foot and Ankle Center is located at 60 Market Street, Suite #202. The office can be reached at 301-330-5666. His website www.kentlandsfootdoctor.com provides information on all of the services he provides as well information on medical conditions associated with the foot and ankle. L One Call Gets the Things You Want Done...DONE! 301-740-8865 handymanconnection.com SAVE 50 $ ON ANY WORK OVER $250 Offer expires 2/28/08 CARPENTRY ELECTRICAL KITCHEN & BATH REMODELS PLUMBING PAINTING GENERAL HOME REPAIRS FULLY INSURED LICENSE #95317 Independently Owned and Locally Operated January/February 2008 The Lakelands Leader 23 communityclassifieds FOR SALE Nordic Track: exercise (ski) machine, model BC-5061, excellent condition. $50 OBO & Abdominal exercise frame, Legacy Fitness $20 OBO, call 301-947-6768 & leave message if no answer. For Sale: Beautiful 60" breakfast table, plus leaf, white base with pine top, 4 matching chairs and sideboard. $250. Call Betty in the Kentlands, 301-947-9303. For Sale: Queen size sleep sofa in excellent condition. $150 obo. Solid wood dining table, seats 6 $75 obo. Green couch & Love Seat $175 obo. E-mail [email protected] or Call 301-908-2780. For Sale in Lakelands: Beautiful 6’-8” tall x 3’-8” wide Hooker Entertainment Armoire with TV and shelf space above and components shelving below with builtin CD racks. Excellent condition. Perfect for a signature Great Room piece or Lower Level entertainment center. $449. Sony Trinitron 32” Flat Screen TV currently in Armoire for $399. Sold together at $799. Call 301-977-2159 or e-mail us at [email protected]. Will e-mail pics. Armoire - Ashley "Winslow" Model: $700. Beautiful 2 piece Armoire made by Ashley Furniture Company "Winslow Group" Less than one year old. Paid $1000.00 will take $700.00. 240-426-2973 Queen Mattress/Box Spring & Frame: $200. Symbol Pedic - "Ortho Edge Support" 20 yr warranty - Excellent Condition - Firm! Great for a spare room. Original price $1150. 240-426-2973 Full Pillowtop Mattress/Box Spring & Frame: $250. Spring Air "Avalon" Back Supporter Excellent Condition - 240-426-2973 Baldwin Acrosonic Series Spinnet Piano: w/bench, 1978 made in USA, almond color in good condition. Great price, $850.00. Call 301-258-7660 and leave message. For Sale: Light Colored wood wall unit, 4 matching pieces, glass doors, glass shelves, electric lights. Compartments below for storage of CD’s, DVD’s & VCR’s & a TV compartment with sliding doors. 32” color TV included in price. All in excellent condition. $1,350. Call 240-631-6611. Bike for sale: 2005 Trek 1000 road bike. 43 cm aluminum white, orange, and blue frame. Carbon fiber fork and Shimano parts. Less than 200 miles. $550 or best offer. E-mail [email protected] or call 240-477-7775. nanny as current nanny share family is moving away. Currently the nanny watches our 20 month old daughter full days MTh (Fridays negotiable) and is a legal resident, speaks English fluently, has a clean driver's license and a post-graduate education. If interested please contact Amy at [email protected] or 301-947-1142. Nanny available: Responsible, loving, experienced nanny seeks F/T, L/O position. Great references. I am a U.S. citizen and have my own transportation. Contact [email protected] FOR RENT: Office Space Sublease – Beautiful office suite on Main Street has one office available to rent for $850/month. Rent includes use of conference room, internet, phone, utilities, filtered water, cleaning and more. Computer/fax/copier/printer available for additional fee. Plenty of parking. Small signs okay. 301-431-0000 x101 or [email protected] For Rent: Beautiful above-garage 400sq.f.office with AC and heating, powder room and kitchenette. $760 a month including utilities and basic cable TV connection. Located in Kentlands. Call 301527-1757 (Please no calls for apartment, it is an Art Studio/Office) Sell It, Find It, Share It in Lakelands Classifieds! Community classifieds are free to all Lakelands residents ($10 fee applied to non-residents). To place your classified, e-mail us at [email protected]. Deadline for the March 2008 edition is February 20, 2008. SERVICES NEEDED: Nanny Share Needed: If you live in Kentlands or Lakelands and have a nanny coming to your home and wouldn't mind if occasionally (once to twice a week max) I could drop my 9-month old daughter off for your nanny to watch, it could ease the financial burden as I would pay the nanny for my time and you could hopefully pay her less during that time period. Additionally if you have a baby it could be great socialization and playtime! If this is a possibility please e-mail me at [email protected] so we can discuss details. Nanny Share: Lakelands family in search of another family to share our wonderful Looking for Family Footcare? We’re now in your neighborhood! Montgomery Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC Adam K. Spector, DPM Herman R. Zarate, DPM Sharon T. Siebold, DPM Specialists in the Medical and Surgical Treatment of the Foot and Ankle SILVER SPRING NORTH POTOMAC WHEATON 1111 Spring Street Silver Spring, MD 20910 Phone: 301-589-8886 11906-G Darnestown Road N. Potomac, MD 20878 Phone: 301-987-7450 3909 Ferrara Drive Wheaton, MD 20906 Phone: 301-949-8833 24 The Lakelands Leader January/February 2008 Watza Network? Personalized, In-Home Computer Help • PC Hardware & Software Repair and Upgrades • Virus and Spyware Removal • Wireless & Wired Expertise • Router/Firewall/Broadband Setup • Home of the WATZA Private Label Never-Fail Router Bob Mann 10+ Years Experience • Even Laser & Ink Jet Printer Repairs! Free Initial Consultation ~ Free Estimates Satisfaction Guaranteed! Serving the Kentlands and Lakelands Communities Call 301-495-3390 email: [email protected] web: www.watzanetwork.com January/February 2008 The Lakelands Leader 25 Professional Directory To advertise in The Lakelands Leader, please call 301-519-1678 or e-mail [email protected] Only 42% of all adults have a will. Don't make your plans at the last minute. Wills • Durable Powers of Attorney Advance Medical Directives Revocable Living Trusts • Estate Administration Tax, Estate, Financial Planning • Tax Preparation Tax Controversies THE LAW OFFICE OF KENNETH S. SAVELL Call 301-675-9626 or e-mail [email protected] to ask questions or to schedule an appointment You could pay more, but why? Reach thousands of Lakelands readers every month with a low cost ad in the Lakelands Leader! Contact us today at [email protected] or 301-519-1678. 26 The Lakelands Leader January/February 2008 January/February 2008 The Lakelands Leader 27 28 The Lakelands Leader January/February 2008
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