08/2008 - Kentlands
Transcription
08/2008 - Kentlands
www.kentlandsusa.com — Log on now! Inside KENTLANDS Entertainment Stage showed Kentlands preschoolers some summer fun! Story on page 14. TOWN KENTLANDS NEWS, COMMENT & OPINION The Runners Are Coming, The Walkers Are Coming! Angel Jones Appointed Gaithersburg City Manager Parking Restrictions Noted For 5K Run/Walk BY BRIDGET RYDER F O Petition Protests Montgomery County Acquisition of GE Property BY ADRIENNE GILLEN Photo Courtesy: Andrea Escher A petition drive opposing the County Executive’s plan to acquire the former National Geographic campus, currently known as the GE tech Park, in Gaithersburg has gathered close to 900 signatures from citizens throughout Montgomery County. The first batch of petitions was delivered to County officials on August 4. The petition drive is led by Concerned Taxpayers of Montgomery County (CTMC), a civic organization. The group has discovered that the County’s plan involves a secretive land swap deal where public land is traded for one of the most expensive available parcels in the County. Says CTMC member Adrienne Gillen, “In a year when the County is dealing with an enormous budget deficit, it makes no sense to buy this particular tract. It makes even less sense to trade away the public land near the Shady Grove Metro to one developer, excluding other developers who might want to pursue rights to it. At a time of burgeoning budget deficits, the County should not set its sights Kentlands residents (L-r) Frank Anderson, Shelley on acquiring some of Sharma, Rachael Henderson-Hammoudeh, Neil Harris the most expensive real and Dick Arkin delivered just close to 900 petitions against the County/GE plans to the Council on August 4. PETITION Continues on page 10 immediately following the Race in the newlyrenovated Market Square Plaza. This community event will be bringing participants and their friends and family to the Kentlands/Lakelands business area, so this is a great opportunity to show our community spirit by running, walking, volunteering or cheering! However, in order to ensure the safety of all race participants, race streets will be closed to parking before and during the race, and car traffic will be restricted until mid-morning on August 30. Cars left on the course after 6:00 a.m. on Race Day will be towed at the owner’s expense. Please see the “5K No Parking Map” on page 12 and plan accordingly. 5K Continues on page 12 PRSRT-STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Gaithersburg MD Permit #5139 JONES Continues on page 3 n Saturday, August 30 beginning at 8:00 a.m., over 1,500 race participants are expected to join in this year’s 5K Run, Walk & Kid’s Fun Runs through the Kentlands and Lakelands communities. Runners, walkers and kids from all over the Greater D.C. Metropolitan area, the mid-Atlantic region and beyond will come to experience our unique new urbanist community during the Race. Ike Leggett and other County Council representatives will be present, along with the city of Gaithersburg’s Mayor and City Council members, as the Race will also serve as the Opening Event for the Maryland Senior Olympics! The Races start and end on Main Street & Market Street East/West, starting between Market Street Plaza and the Courts of Devon, and end down Main Street at Market Street East. The well-renowned 5K Merchant Expo Festival and Awards Ceremony will take place The 5K Race will run through the streets of Kentlands on August 30. Return Address: Kentlands Clubhouse 485 Tschiffely Square Road Gaithersburg, MD 20878 ollowing a six month search process the Mayor and City Council announce the appointment of Angel Jones as Gaithersburg’s new City Manager. She will begin on September 29, 2008. “Angel was our top candidate for the position and we are delighted that she has agreed to come to Gaithersburg,” said Mayor Sidney Katz. “She has an extensive background in community development and collaboration, and we look forward to Angel working closely with residents, staff and elected officials to help our community navigate a future that is filled with both challenge and opportunity.” “The time has come to where a culmination of all of my experiences will afford me the opportunity to provide leadership to a great city!” said Jones. “I am committed to ensuring transparency, responsiveness and accountability. I consider myself fortunate to have an engaged citizenry, a dedicated group of elected officials and a professional and responsive organizational team as my first city manager assignment. I'm also excited to be returning to the east coast to join family and reconnect with friends.” With a municipal background spanning more than two decades, Jones brings a range of experience to her new position. Most recently she served as Assistant City Manager in Eugene, Oregon, a community with just over 150,000 residents, 1,547 municipal employees and a budget of $475.7 million. Other experiences include Executive Director of Eugene’s Department of Library, Recreation and Cultural Services, Deputy Director of the City of Richmond’s Department of August 2008 Photo Courtesy: Bob London Volume 14, No. 8 CRIER August 2008 PAGE 2 Kentlands Town Crier K E N T L A N D S Clubhouse News TOWN CRIER Editor & Advertising Manager Andrea Escher (301) 519-1678 news@thekentlandstowncrier.com Kentlands Citizens Assembly President Neil Harris neil@play.net Kentlands Citizens Assembly Board of Trustees board@kentlandsusa.com Chair Robyn Renas robynrenas@worldnet.att.net Vice Chairman Joyce Whitman jwhitman1@rcn.com Treasurer Peter Shiner peter.shiner@kentlandsusa.com Secretary Rachael Henderson-Hammoudeh treehouse109@starpower.net By Anita Parks,Activities Director Spanish Club forming for Kentlands Residents If you are interested in studying the Spanish Language or engaging in a discussion group – this could be the club for you! The Kentlands Spanish Club is currently forming in response to the residents who participated in Spanish classes in the spring and would like to continue their education. This club will also be open to any other residents interested in Spanish who have not previously participated in Spanish classes. Meeting dates and times have not been set and this group is in its early forming stages. If you are interested, please send an email to Anita Parks at aparks@cmcmanagement.com to sign up for more information as it becomes available. Summer Concert Series – Mark Your Calendars! SPECIAL DAY AND TIME! This is one show you do not want to miss! The Kentlands Clubhouse Lawn is the place to be on Sunday, August 24 at 5:00 p.m. for Trustee Frank Anderson Andintl@aol.com then stay for raft night on Tuesday, August 19 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Please call the Clubhouse at 301-948-2071 to register. AND Events The Reagan Years! They are the East Coast’s premier 80’s tribute band! Playing Pop, Rock, New Wave, and hair Metal hits from the 1980’s their stage show creates a party atmosphere filled with fun memories. The Band Whatever will be playing the Summer Concert Series finale on August 30 at 5:30 p.m. This band is always a crowd pleaser! Come out for rock and roll the way it was meant to be played as we close out the summer! Children’s Entertainment Stage The pool deck pavilion (weather permitting) will transform into a stage for preschool and early elementary school Kentlanders on Tuesday, August 19 at 10:00 a.m. for a Rockin’ Dance Day! Bring your little ones and prepare to be entertained. Please note that the Children’s Activity Hour will be taking a break during the summer and start again in September. Ice Cream Party Come enjoy a special summer treat and Tuesday Night Raft Night Residents of all ages are encouraged to bring rafts, boogie boards and noodles to the pool for “float” parties from 6:00 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. every Tuesday for the rest of the pool season. Please note the time change of Raft Night necessary to accommodate the earlier sunset times as the summer continues. Snack Bar Don’t forget! The Kentlands Clubhouse Snack Bar is open every day from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. through August 24 and on Tuesday nights for Raft Night. The Snack Bar will remain open on weekends until the end of the pool season but will be closed on weekdays when Montgomery County Schools are in session. Be sure to stop by and see all the new items available this summer! Thank you to all who continue to support the various programs and events here in the Kentlands. If there is an activity that you would like to see KCA sponsor, please call the Clubhouse or send an email to aparks@cmc-management.com. 2008 Kentlands Events and Activities Calendar Tue August 19 10:00 AM 10:45 AM Children’s Entertainment Stage Writers & Contributors Gina Dropik Tue August 19 6:00 PM 8:00 PM Ice Cream Party Fri August 29 10:00 AM 11:00 AM Pre-School Activity Hour Staff Photographers Bob London Sat August 30 5:30 PM 8:30 PM Whatever, The Band in Concert EDITORIAL POLICY: The Kentlands Town Crier is the primary regularly-published 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. 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 dropped off at the Clubhouse, faxed to the Clubhouse at (301) 948-9730, or mailed to: Kentlands Town Crier, c/o The Kentlands Clubhouse, 485 Tschiffely Square Road, Gaithersburg, MD 20878. 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. Graphic Design Cristina Strigel (703) 777-7676 © Copyright 2008, Kentlands Citizens Assembly, all rights reserved. Kentlands Town Crier Mon September 1 12:00 PM 3:00 PM Labor Day Summer Send Off Sat September 6 9:00 PM 11:00 PM Movie Night on the Lawn Sun September 14 4:00 PM 6:00 PM *Dog Swim (End of Pool Season) Sat September 20 4:00 PM 7:00 PM Crab Feast Fri September 26 10:00 AM 11:00 AM Pre-School Activity Hour Sat October 4 9:00 AM 10:00 AM Newcomers’ Coffee Sun October 12 12:00 PM 4:00 PM Oktoberfest Sat October 25 10:00 AM 11:00 AM Halloween Magic Show & Parade Fri October 31 10:00 AM 11:00 AM Pre-School Activity Hour Fri November 14 5:00 PM 8:00 PM Happy Hour Sat December 6 9:00 AM 10:00 AM Newcomers’ Coffee Sat December 6 4:00 PM 6:00 PM Holiday Party featuring Santa Sat December 13 6:00 PM 9:00 PM Holiday Happy Hour (Adults only) JONES Continued from page 1 Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities, and Financial Manager/Analyst with Richmond’s Department of Public Utilities. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from Virginia Union University. In making their decision the Mayor and Council commented that Jones has risen through the ranks of municipal government and has a strong understanding of the importance of City staff and services. “She is very committed to building a sense of community, fostering open and ethical government, and receiving regular feedback from our citizens,” said Council Member Ryan Spiegel. “Ms. Jones has the leadership qualities and commitment to public service that exemplifies all that we have come to expect from our employees. Her skills and style of leadership will keep us moving forward in the next era for Gaithersburg to make it an even greater place to live, work, learn and play,” added Council Member Mike Sesma. Council Member Jud Ashman also noted that “with her experience in management and budgeting, her passion for municipal government and community outreach, a truly inspirational story and a long string PAGE 3 of successes to her name, Angel Jones is going to be a great leader for our great City.” Gaithersburg’s City Manager is appointed by the City Council and serves as the chief administrative officer for the City. Jones will manage Gaithersburg’s administrative operations in accordance with policies and procedures set forth by the City Council, with a professional staff of 258 full time employees and a City budget of $52.3 million. Her starting salary will be $165,000, making her the highest paid employee in the City. Acting City Manager James Arnoult has been serving in the position since the October, 2007 retirement of David Humpton. “Jim has done an amazing job during this period of transition,” said Mayor Katz. “He guided us through a very challenging budget process and worked diligently to keep the City’s operations running smoothly. The Council and I are indebted to him for keeping the staff motivated and for keeping the City moving forward.” Arnoult will return to his position as Director of Public Works after September 28. For more information please contact the Gaithersburg City Manager’s office at 301-258-6310 or visit the City’s website at www.gaithersburgmd.gov. August 2008 Kentlands Calendar of Events for August and September August 12 August 13 August 14 August 19 Copperfield Crossing I Meeting, 7:00 p.m. at the Kentlands Carriage House. Kentlands Historical Trust Meeting, 6:30 p.m. at the Kentlands Clubhouse. Environmental Management Committee, 7:00 p.m. at the Kentlands Clubhouse. Children’s Entertainment Stage, 10:00 a.m. Rockin Dance Day Copperfield Crossing II Meeting, 7:30 p.m. at the Kentlands Carriage House August 21 August 24 August 25 August 27 You could pay more but why? Reach thousands of Kentlands residents with a low cost ad in the Crier! for more information. Contact us today at news@thekentlandstowncrier.com August 2008 August 29 August 30 Board of Code Compliance, 7:00 p.m. at the Kentlands Clubhouse. Ice Cream Party, 6:00 p.m. at the Kentlands Clubhouse/Pool August 20 August 28 Deadline to submit Visual Change Applications to the Kentlands Clubhouse. Kentlands View Condominium Meeting, 7:00 p.m. at the Kentlands Clubhouse. Go Green Group, 7:00 p.m. at the Kentlands Clubhouse Sept. 1 Sept. 2 Sept. 3 Sept. 6 Sept. 10 Summer Concert Series Presents “Reagan Years,” 5:00 p.m. p.m. at the Kentlands Clubhouse lawn. Kentlands Bozzuto II, 7:00 p.m. at the Kentlands Carriage House. Kentlands Board of Trustees Meeting, 7:30 p.m. at the Kentlands Clubhouse. Sept. 11 Kentlands Ridge Condominium Meeting, 7:00 p.m. at the Kentlands Clubhouse. Deadline for submissions for the September edition of the Kentlands Town Crier. Contact Andrea Escher at 301-519-1678 or via email at news@thekentlandstowncrier.com. Kentlands/Lakelands 5K Race, 8:00 a.m. Kentlands Market Square Summer Concert Series Presents “The Band Whatever,” 5:30 p.m. at the Kentlands Clubhouse lawn. Labor Day Summer Send-Off, 12:00 p.m. at the Kentlands Pool. Kentlands Community Foundation Meeting, 7:30 p.m. at the Kentlands Carriage House. Kentlands Historical Trust Meeting, 6:30 p.m. at the Kentlands Clubhouse. Kentlands Movie Night on the Lawn, 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. on the Clubhouse Lawn Open House with Community Architect, 5:00 p.m. at their office located at 320 Firehouse Lane. Environmental Management Committee, 7:00 p.m. at the Kentlands Clubhouse KCA Election Nomination information and forms mailed Board of Code Compliance, 7:00 p.m. at the Kentlands Clubhouse To see a full list of events and to interactively download items to your calendar, go to www.kentlandsusa.com PAGE 4 Kentlands Town Crier Kentlands Citizens Assembly Inc. Administrative Resolution No. 18 Strategic Plan DATE: July 23, 2008 Printed below is Administrative Resolution Number 18, Strategic Plan, as proposed by the Board of Trustees at its July 23, 2008 meeting. In accordance with Kentlands By-laws, the above Administrative Resolution is being distributed to all Citizens for review and comments. The formal enactment of this Resolution will be voted on at the September Board of Trustees meeting on Wednesday, September 24, 2008. Any written comments must be received at the Kentlands Clubhouse, 485 Tschiffely Square Road Gaithersburg, Maryland or emailed to mstaples@cmcmanagement.com, by 5:00 p.m., September 23, 2008, 2007. Citizens are also invited to provide comments within limited time allowed during the Citizens Forum portion of the Board meeting. For further information, contact Mac Staples, General Manager, at 301-948-2071. WHEREAS, The Kentlands Board of Trustees of the Kentlands Citizens Assembly intends to establish a document for future community leaders to use as guidance in the governance process. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT: The Board of Trustees hereby adopts this new Administrative Resolution No. 18, Strategic Plan. Kentlands Citizens Assembly 2008 Strategic Plan DRIVEN BY A MISSION... Kentlands will set the benchmark for planning, development, and management of a new urbanism community. Charter that, in its conception, was directed towards the goals of protecting the value of each Titleholder’s financial investment in Real Property in the Kentlands. • Provide for the human habitation of the lands comprising Kentlands in ways that minimize adverse environmental impacts and that otherwise serve to protect and enhance the wholesomeness of the human and natural ecosystems that operate within Kentlands, and in particular, to creatively promote and effect measures that lead to a lesser reliance upon private automobiles than has been customary in modern communities. • Provide for each Citizen and all residents unique opportunities to enjoy a social environment that enriches personal and family life through Community congeniality and the operation of an overall spirit about Kentlands that is an especially emotionally and spiritually rewarding place to live. In particular Kentlands has been conceived to uniquely provide opportunities for individual, personal growth to better enable each person to fully fulfill his and her human potential. • Foster a strong sense of interconnectedness between Citizens in support of the idea that for a community to be able to give its utmost to its individual constituents, each member of the community must give their practical and utmost to their community. • To promote the idea that a community’s greatest assets are derived from the essential individuality of each of its citizens, and that so long as a person’s expression of his individuality does not encroach upon the comfort and rights of others and does not compromise the integrity of his community, he or she is fully entitled to express his or her individuality in any fashion. INSPIRED BY A VISION… Beneficially protect and enhance the general health, safety and welfare of the Citizens of Kentlands, and to promote opportunities for enrichment of the quality of life of each citizen of the Kentlands, and further, to make substantive contributions to the City in which we live and own Real Property. GUIDED BY OUR VALUES... Integrity Quality Excellence Responsiveness Innovation KENTLANDS CITIZENS’ ASSEMBLY OBJECTIVES COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY OBJECTIVES • Satisfy the intents of the Community Kentlands Town Crier 2008 KENTLANDS CITIZENS ASSEMBLY GOALS • Accomplishes project management with an appropriate blend of management competence, professional engineering expertise, as needed, and volunteer oversight that provides advice to the Board regarding resource commitment decisions. • Transforms the current arrangements for financial management and decisionmaking into one that appropriately delegates specific decision-making functions to the Treasurer for timeliness, provides the Board with good visibility of the state of the KCA finances, assures appropriate responsibility on the part of the community manager with regard to financial operations and record keeping, and includes a strong fiscally responsible policy statement. • Supports the Kentlands Community Foundation (KCF) whose goal is to facilitate resident involvement in the community through its dedication to promoting the cultural arts, serving as a national resource on the ideals of a new urbanism, and providing opportunities for volunteerism and community outreach. TIMELINE The new Board of Trustees will convent in the January/February timeframe to determine the critical issues for that year. REFERENCE DOCUMENT The 2007 Reserve Study, conducted by Mason and Mason, is a reference document to the plan. KENTLANDS CITIZENS ASSEMBLY CRITICAL ISSUES FOR 2008 • The National Geographic/GE Technology Park Property Purchase – Evaluate Montgomery County’s position • Code Compliance – Review design standards and evaluate the Architectural Code • Project Management – Improve infrastructure, operations, and committees A COMMUNITY THAT • Sustains quality of life improvements that include its amenities, facilities, and programs over the long term. • Balances its business and social objectives, while protecting the environment and promoting an atmosphere that is culturally rewarding and diversified. • Accomplishes its goals with excellence such that it is looked upon by those inside and outside of the community as a highly desirable place to live. • Protects property values by assuring that the landscape and infrastructure are maintained, and that the amenities provided by the recreation center are sustained. • Finance – Conduct proactive financial management and budgeting • Kentlands Community Foundation Partnership Kentlands Citizens Assembly Strategic Planning SWOT Analysis February 23, 2008 BRAIN STORMING RESULTS Strengths • Founding Documents PAGE 5 • • • • • • • • • • • • Reserve Study/Finance Community talent potential Political strength in Gaithersburg Reputation/Brand Small town feeling Proposed Business District City Council Members Caring/committed citizens Community service hours by students Publications Satisfied residents High standards for community appearance • Bus service 56/76 Weaknesses • Lack of political strength in Montgomery County • PEPCO Lights – poor condition • Coordination of communication for infrastructure repair • Effectiveness of Committees • Staff follow-up on work orders (vendors) • Project Management of maintenance • Contract Management • Community does not know what we own and don’t own Opportunities • Community – Find volunteers • KCF Partnership • GE Tract/Avalon Bay – What do we want? • Coordinate with Montgomery Village • Government officials present and past • Committees (Standing KHT, BOCC) • CCT • Shuttle bus (Bluff and Clubhouse) • Lot – corner of Otis and Tschiffely • List community opportunities for residents • Direction on property vs. cost • More trust in City of Gaithersburg • City of Gaithersburg looking for Skate Park • Position on Skate Park/Skate Spot with City of Gaithersburg Threats • Physical safety (e.g., light fixtures) • Proposed Business District (how it develops) • GE Tract • Avalon Bay • Government Officials present and past • Kentlands Blvd (cross) • Declining housing market • Lot – corner of Otis and Tschiffely • Storm doors (tie to standards and bi-laws) • Special assessment • Maintenance Costs of non-functional properties • Kids on skateboards From the brain-storming session, the top five items from each category where selected: OUTCOMES Strengths • Community Talent – Potential • Political Strength with City • Design Standards and Appearance • Reserve Study/Finances • Kentlands Reputation/Brand – Ideals of New Urbanism Weaknesses • Project Management of Maintenance – Contract Management – Vendor Management – Staff Follow-up • Not Partnered with Surrounding Communities • Lack of Strength with Montgomery RESOLUTION Continues on page 19 August 2008 From the Board By Robyn Renas, Chairperson of the KCA Board of Trustees Lap Pool Open for Early Morning Swimming in August Are you an early morning lap swimming fan? Starting August 4, every Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. the lap pool will be open for community use. If early morning exercise fits your schedule, come out and use the lap lanes. Management negotiated with RSV Pools, our pool management company, to have these hours billed for a weekly rate of $400.00. The Board is always open to hearing your ideas and looking for ways to improve how we experience our community. We hope this pilot program is well attended. If no interest is exhibited by lap swimmers during the first couple of weeks for the early morning hours, the Board will review our decision for the balance of the 2008 season. With adequate community support we hope to re-introduce the early morning swim hours during the 2009 pool season. REMINDER – the pool season has been extended for two weeks this year. After Labor Day the hours will be weekdays between 3:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. and weekends between 9:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The final day of swimming will be Sunday September 14. The pool will close for community swimming at 4:00 p.m. and we will close out the season with the Second Annual Kentlands Dog Swim between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Check the Kentlands Express and calendar for the exact hours and details of these events. TIC Fund The Kentlands Titleholders Initial Contribution Fund will be discussed during the August Board of Trustees Meeting. Please mark your calendar and plan to attend. Twenty years ago, when the idea of a special community where you could live, walk, work, enjoy nature and thrive was taking shape, the developers recognized that funding an account separate from operational expenses was necessary to realize their lofty goals for our Kentlands. The original builders of each plot of land were required to fund this account and upon every subsequent sale of a property four months of association dues are collected and deposited into the TIC Fund. Over the years this fund has grown and has been used to fund projects that directly Mayor Sidney Katz at the promote the social or July Kentlands Board of cultural betterment of the Trustees Meeting. community (as per the legal Photo Courtesy: ARobert Turner Mayor Sidney Katz “Thank you” to everyone who attended the July Board of Trustees meeting at which we were honored to have the City of Gaithersburg Mayor as our guest. Mayor Sidney Katz provided an overview of City issues and candidly engaged in a question and answer session with the audience, Board and President. Issues that are of interest to the Kentlands such as the Aquatics Center and potential Montgomery County acquisition of the former National Geographic campus are on the Mayor’s radar. The City has placed the Aquatics Center on hold until additional sources of operational funding are secured. Its location and City support for the project has not altered. The Mayor reported that there has been no City of Gaithersburg/Montgomery County discourse on the subject of the former National Geographic campus since the public meeting held earlier in the summer at City Hall. While there is no doubt that Montgomery County is actively pursuing the acquisition of this parcel, it is unclear what County uses will be transferred there. The Mayor recognizes that City revenue will be adversely affected by the loss of this land to Montgomery County. He also emphasized that the County does not have to compensate the City in any manner for the loss of revenue, but that the City will enter negotiations with the County with the goal of offsetting the financial loss. President’s Report By Neil Harris, KCA President Creative Arts Near Rachael Carson? As Robyn mentioned in her From the Board column, we are looking at parking near the Kentlands Children’s Center. Why has this come up? I’m glad you asked. You probably noticed the new Live/Works unit that is nearly complete on Tschiffely near the Children’s Center and Rachael Carson Elementary School. There is a new business that is interested in moving into the property, a school for performing arts. This could be an interesting after-school activity for kids from Rachael Carson and from the surrounding community. The proprietors of the new business contacted the City of Gaithersburg’s August 2008 planning group to make sure the City was comfortable with this type of business. At this time it looks like the City will support the proposal. One area that the City examined closely was parking. The City believes that the new school will be used primarily during off-peak hours at the surrounding institutions. Next they came to the KCA. They wanted to make sure we are comfortable with parking and with the business. I have spoken with one of the proprietors, Paul Poto, and he seems thoughtful and reasonable. The Board has invited Paul to the next KCA Board meeting on August 27 limitations placed on the fund). The TIC Fund is the source of the community’s annual support of the Kentlands Community Foundation and its programs. It has funded the construction of the Pool Deck Shade Pavilion and this past year the Board approved using approximately $20,000 from the fund for social programming in the community. Recent Board debate has centered on whether principal or interest only from this fund should be used. I expect a lively discourse on this topic and I encourage your contribution. Last Call In July, the Board reviewed and accepted the list of alleys or pipestems owned by the KCA that are in need of drainage repairs in association with the approaching alley asphalt project. Management can’t be in every alley during every possible rain event and has been soliciting community assistance to bring all water issues to their attention. The list of locations and planned repairs will be included in the Request for Proposals for Alley Asphalt Repairs scheduled for this fall. This is the last call for input on the subject. Please be aware that even if your alley was repaired last year, if it is experiencing drainage issues, it is eligible for repair this year. Parking Spaces Neil Harris brought some parking issues to the Board’s attention recently. The parking spaces and the quarter circle drive in front of the Kentlands Children’s Center and the adjacent building under construction are owned by the KCA and are not conveyed to either of these two businesses. The number of parking spaces located in this portion of the Kentlands community is a consistent concern of residents. In a mixed use community such as ours, we have learned to share our parking spots with patrons of the Mansion, Arts Barn, Elementary School and Church. As soon as this newest building in Kentlands is operational, additional parking requirements will naturally follow. Neil informed the Board that we could have the parking spaces in the quarter circle re-striped, modifying their width in order to gain additional spaces. The question to residents is “Do you want to reduce the width of the parking spaces in the quarter circle in front of the Kentlands Children’s Center in order to gain some additional parking spaces?” We need to hear from you before we take any action. at 7:30 p.m. in the Clubhouse. Paul will present his vision for the site and take input from neighbors and the rest of the community. After that we will give feedback to the City. If this project goes forward it is likely to open for business in January. If you can make it to the meeting, please let yourself be heard. If you cannot attend, feel free to e-mail me (neil@play.net) and let me know your thoughts. Election Time Approaches It’s hard to believe but I’ve been in this office nearly two years. Most of my friends warned me that it was a thankless job, but I have to say it has been quite the opposite. Maybe we’re an exceptional community (well, we know we are) but people talk about KCA business with me frequently and the feedback is almost always positive. This has been a great position for me. My PAGE 6 PRESIDENT’S REPORT Continues on page 18 Manager’s Corner By Mac Staples, General Manager Y our President, Management and the Budget and Finance Advisory Committee (BFAC) have been working diligently in preparing a proposed 2009 operating budget. The BFAC met to review the first draft of the budget on July 28 and are continuing to modify it. Your President and Board wish for this to be an inclusive and thorough process in developing the community's 2009 budget. Additional input can be provided at the October 21 Annual Meeting where the Board will hear and input comments finalizing the budget and then approve the final budget at the October 22 regular Board meeting. Starting August 4, every Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. the lap pool will be open for swimmers. The Board of Trustees approved the extension of the pool season for an additional two weeks through Sunday, September 14. The pool will be open Monday through Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and the regular full weekend coverage hours (9:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.). Hopefully you have noticed the completed construction activity around the f lagpole by the Clubhouse. The Board approved the installation of a paver walkway around the pole. The new paver walk is a huge improvement to the rock path that was there originally. The walk is a symmetrical elliptical shape, centered around the pole, with both major path arteries forming a straight line from the Clubhouse parking lot to the curved section of Tschiffely Square Road. Both picnic table areas are nicely squared with the same material. You may have noticed small colored flags around the new paver walkway and in the vicinity of the Clubhouse. We are currently working on bringing the irrigation system online and are extremely excited about what this improvement can do for the vegetation around the Clubhouse. You may have noticed construction activity in the Clubhouse. The Board approved a copier closet construction project. The purpose of the closet is to provide a home for the copy machine and provide a greater useful space in the Conference Room. This work is still underway and almost completed, pending the receipt of a door for the closet. If any facility access issues arise here that Clubhouse during our projects, we’ve adopted a threepronged communication process so you know whether or not you will be able to get access to the facilities. We will post a notice on the front door; we will change our phone recording MANAGER’S CORNER Continues on page 13 Kentlands Town Crier Kentlands Historical Trust The Kentlands Historical Trust met on Wednesday, July 2, 2008 at the Kentlands Clubhouse and the following fifteen (15) applications were reviewed: Marsha Kottler, #08-158 349 Alfandre Mews Storm Door: Deferred. Install white Andersen “2000 Self Storing with Slideaway® Insect Screen” door to match existing white trim. Reason(s): Current proposed door does not meet the Kentlands Design Standards. The language in the Kentlands Design Standards concerning storm doors is presently under review by the Kentlands Citizens Assembly Board of Trustees, but has not been finalized. Jens & Rebecca Bolch, #08-159 301 Booth Street Storm Door: Approved as a variance to maintain existing storm door based on the seven years that the door has been in place. When glass must be replaced, it will be required to replace with a full view glass without decorative trim. Brian & Carrie Dietz, #08-160 329 Booth Street Enclose Landing: Approved to enclose existing covered landing and step area on rear of house. Move back to position to face the patio. Casey & Christina Clark, #08-161 717 Chestertown Street Patio: Approved to install flagstone patio, including retaining wall. Landscaping: Approved rear landscaping. Paint: Approved to paint garage and back of house using Pratt & Lambert “Dawn Mist”. Trim will remain white. Ninan & Sunitha Mathew, #08-162 739 Chestertown Street Fence: Approved to install white picket fence along side of house to match existing picket style and color. Michael & Melissa Becher, #08-163 427 Little Quarry Road Windows: Approved to replace existing rear windows on first floor using Andersen Renewal without muntins. As a variance, muntins will be removed from all rear windows. Muntins will remain on side and front windows. Mariusz & Kerri Sumlinski, #08-164 434 Little Quarry Road. Windows: Approved to replace all windows using Andersen Renewal without muntins. Michael & Heather Miller, #08-165 106 Thrift Street Windows: Denied to replace windows using Clear Choice Signature Series. Reason(s): Windows do not meet the Kentlands Design Standards. Gate: Approved to install gate between 106 Thrift St. and 108 Thrift St. with the condition that the height is no higher than porch, about three feet high (not five feet). In addition, materials must meet the Design Standards. Gate to be painted white (not off white). Edward Clark & Vinesha Aubeeluck-Clark, #08-166 126 Thurgood Street Landscaping: Approved rear landscaping. Clark & Lisa Wagner, #08-167 205 Firehouse Lane Deck: Approved to install deck using Trex Artisan Series railings and Trex flooring. Railing of deck can be as proposed or changed to steps. Railing for basement exit to be installed. Height of deck to be somewhat lower, 6” to 7” below first floor level. Patio: Approved to install flagstone patio. Landscaping with Pond: Approved rear yard landscaping with pond. Pond can be as proposed or placed next to garage. Siding: Approved to replace existing siding using HardiePlank. Color: White. Trim: Approved to replace rotting trim using Azek with the condition that trim shall be the same proportion and profile as the remaining trim and be painted white. Shutter Color Change: Approved color change to red. Brad Stewart, #08-168 625 Kent Oaks Way Color Change: Approved to change existing white siding to Benjamin Moore yellow “Sundance 2022-50”, shutters will remain black using Sherwin Williams “Inkwell SW 6992” and trim will remain white using Sherwin Williams “Extra White SW 7006”. Michael & Rachael Hyman, 08-169 517 Kent Oaks Way Windows: Approved to replace rear windows (except triple window and door), two basement windows and one side window using Andersen Renewal. However, use of muntins on an elevation of the building must be consistent. All windows on front of house to retain muntins. Muntins are not required on sides or rear as a variance to the Kentlands Design Standards due to the unique location of the house on a walkway and not a street. Richard & Hope Walker, #08-170 120 Briscoe Street Balcony Railing: Denied balcony railing modification on carriage house. Reason(s): Change is noticeable and modifies the original design of this porch, which is located in a major location. See section 20 on page 6 of the Kentlands Design Standards. Marina Amoroso, #08-171 336 Alfandre Street Garage Door: Approved to replace existing wood garage door using Premium Series “Short Elegant Panel, Model 4050” with raised panels in almond color (not approved if using “Flush Panel”, Model 4051). Paul & Diane Goleb, #08-143-A, Revisit 203 Tschiffely Square Road Window: Approved to install egress window for basement using ScapeWEL® Window Well System. The well shall be landscaped to shield from view. The September Historic Trust meeting will be held September 3, 2008 at the Kentlands Clubhouse at 6:30 p.m. Don’t forget to submit your Visual Change Application to the CMC Management Office prior to beginning any exterior modification to your home. Applications must be submitted before the 19th of the month and are available at the Kentlands Clubhouse and on the website; www.kentlandsusa.com. Please be reminded when submitting a Visual Change Application that the following must be included: • Plat map (also known as house location survey). • Photograph of existing as well as one marked with the proposed change. • Signatures of lot owners that would have a view of the proposed change. • If applicable, architectural plans, paint color sample, sample materials, landscape design, brochures and/or specifications. Let Central re-energize the exterior of your home using green energy efficient products. James Hardie fiber cement and Windsor 5 star energy efficient windows are products we feature. The Windsor Windows will qualify for the Federal Energy Home Tax Credit. Kentlands Town Crier PAGE 7 August 2008 KENTLANDS C O M M U N I T Y u p d a t e F O U N D A T I O N Grand Gala to Start Film Society Season BY BETTY HAFNER W ho knew the Kentlands was an East Coast hot spot! The evening of Sunday, September 21, 2008 is the start of our social season, so mark your calendars for the Kentlands Film Society’s third season opening in the Gaithersburg Arts Barn! At 6 o’clock sharp, complimentary champagne and punch will flow, and hors d’oeuvres, provided by O’Donnell’s, will be served. Guests will enter via a red carpet into the lobby where a photographer will be on hand to memorialize a sparkling night of socializing and a ground-breaking cinema experience. At 7:00 p.m. the action will move from the lobby to the theater where the 12 short film finalists in the Manhattan Short Film Festival will be screened. At the end of the evening, the audience will vote for the film they consider the best. These votes will be tallied with those from other audiences world-wide to choose the winner. Check out www.msfilmfest.com to learn more. Subscribers to the Kentlands Film Society will have automatic entrance to the Gala. Subscriptions are now on sale for the 2008-2009 season ($35.00 for the five-film series). Application brochures are available at the Kentlands Clubhouse, Lakelands Clubhouse, Gaithersburg Arts Barn or the Kentlands Manor dining areas. A form can also be downloaded from the Kentlands Community Foundation web site at www.kentlands.org. But for those who just want to be where the action is, there will be some walk-in seats available for $8.00 each and they can be reserved after September 12 by calling Maureen Green at 301-947-8882 or e-mail at greencwmp@aol.com GO GREEN Group to Discuss Possible Community Garden in Kentlands BY ALEX STAVITSKY-ZEINEDDIN T he GO GREEN Group has changed its summer family program in August to listen to an idea for a community garden in the Kentlands, presented by DPZ Architectural firm designers. The meeting will be held on Thursday, August 21, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. at the Kentlands Clubhouse. The August GO GREEN tree planting activity has been rescheduled for September. DPZ Architectural designers Ruthzaly Weich and Andrew Moneyheffer will present a design for a community garden that has been drawn out for the current green grass area August 2008 Film Society co-chairs Maureen Green and Sigrid McCutcheon discuss plans for season opening gala. Photo Courtesy: Betty Hafner that lies between the DPZ firm and the Carriage House, adjacent to the Arts Barn. The two young designers came up with the idea for a community garden while in the process of designing current and future new urbanist communities that incorporate community gardens in their layout. “Gardens where you can grow your own vegetables are becoming more and more popular. There are so many rewards to growing your own food,” says Ruthzaly. Common gardens historically in the US have developed and evolved in communities where people want to grow their own vegetables or flowers and are committed to taking care of the land and space. The Kentlands was designed with various open spaces that are currently either green grass areas or have woodchips in them. These areas could also be considered for future community garden areas if there is interest in such projects. The proposed community garden design envisions a common sitting area, nine raised beds for access by people of all ages. The aisles would accommodate wheel chairs and there would also be a tool shed. Rain barrels and a composting area are also part of the suggested garden design. Someone from a local community garden will also be at the GO GREEN meeting to discuss how their community garden is allotted and run, so as to educate those interested in actually maintaining a plot as to how the garden can work. Another suggestion to be discussed is the possibility of having one plot designated as an educational children’s garden. For more information on community gardens visit www.communitygarden.org or for questions regarding the GO GREEN Group call Alex Stavitsky-Zeineddin at 240-246-1645. PAGE 8 Kentlands Town Crier Kentlands Town Crier PAGE 9 August 2008 School Scoop By Gina Dropik Rachel Carson Elementary School News he school year begins for Montgomery County Schools on Tuesday, August 26. Rachel Carson Elementary School (RCES) Principal Larry Chep says that as always he is looking forward to a new school year. The much anticipated postcards with teacher assignments will arrive in the mail to all students in mid-August. Students will have a chance to meet their teachers and visit their classrooms at the annual Sneak Peek on Monday, August 25. Sneak Peek is designed to reduce beginning-of-the-year anxiety and help students prepare emotionally for the start of the school year. Students in grades 3 through 5 are invited to visit the school from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and students in grades kindergarten through 2 are invited to visit between 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. A special meeting for parents of kindergarteners will be held from 3:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Cathrine Shinn has joined the administrative staff at RCES as Assistant Principal. Shinn most recently worked at the Montgomery County Public School central office, supporting the quad-cluster as a Staff Development Specialist. Shinn said, “I’m really looking forward to working with children again.” According to Chep changes for the school year include a new reading assessment for grades 3-5 which will better analyze students’ strengths and needs in reading. Also another portable has been added to the school. This year all fourth grade classes will be held in portables. Chep said, “The portables are cutting into our recess area, so the County is looking into ways to increase the school’s blacktop area.” T The first Parent Teacher Association (PTA) meeting will be held on September 2 at 7:00 p.m. A question and answer session will precede the meeting at 6:30 p.m. for parents and students new to the school. PTA The first PTA Family Night will be a Pizza Dinner and Bingo held on September 12 at 6:30 p.m. The annual Dads ‘n Donuts event will be held on September 26 at 8:00 a.m. Other events planned for the school year include an Outdoor Movie Night, Science Night, a Valentines Day Dance and the Spring Fair. Back to School Nights will be held September 16 for parents of third through fifth graders and the 4-5 Learning Center, and September 17 for parents of pre-kindergarten through second graders and the K-1 and 2-3 Learning Centers. The evening begins at 7:00 p.m. with a general session for parents in the All Purpose Room, followed by classroom presentations. Each teacher will present his or her program twice during the evening so that parents with two or more children can visit at least two classrooms. The presentations will detail the teacher’s expectations, plans and procedures for the school year. Parents will also be able to visit art, music, P.E. and resource rooms during Back to School Night. Students are encouraged to purchase school supplies prior to the start of the year. Lists can be found by visiting the RCES website at www.mcps.ki12.md.us/schools/ rachelcarsones and clicking on the Parent Info link. The entire school calendar can be found on the website as well. Please remember to look for this article each month to find out about all of the happenings at RCES throughout the school year. SCHOOL SCOOP Continues on page 18 PETITION Continued from page 1 You could pay more but why? Contact us today to find out how you can get your business noticed by thousands of Kentlands neighbors in the Crier! Call Kim at 202-415-3636. August 2008 estate available anywhere in the County.” The CTMC estimates the value of the tract at well over $100 million, and it appears that other tracts in the County are available for between $5 and $40 million. Moreover, the current GE Tech Park buildings will require tens of millions of dollars of improvements, according to County spokespeople. The County Executive’s office has repeatedly emphasized that the deal is being structured as “cost neutral.” “Cost neutral’ sounds good until you realize that it is just a code – the County charter gives the Executive the right to trade items as long as they are cost neutral. We question if this clause should apply to land swaps involving multiple parties, swaps transferring hundreds of millions of dollars. Does using the phrase ‘cost neutral’ eliminate the need for transparency?” said Gillen. Richard Arkin, a community activist, has filed a Freedom of Information request for details on the County’s financing of the plan. Instead of providing the information, the County Executive’s office asked for more than $16,000 to gather the information. Aside from the fiscal issues, residents are concerned about the location of the main County liquor warehouse next door to the Lakelands Park Middle School. State law prohibits locating establishments that sell liquor within proximity to schools. “The County seems to believe that this law does not apply to it,” said Neil Harris of CTMC. “That may be its legal position, but ethically this is just plain wrong. The law exists to set a proper example for our children. Does this make sense?” Said Rachael Henderson-Hammoudeh, chairperson of the Concerned Taxpayers, “There are so many things wrong with this plan – it is too expensive, too secret, too vague about the County’s future plans for the land, and it places a liquor distribution operation too close to a Middle School. We are bringing this to the County Council to plead for some sense.” The CTMC is a civic organization that is opposed to Montgomery County’s plan to purchase the GE property. For more information, contact Neil Harris at 301-641-8510 or at neil@play.net. PAGE 10 Kentlands Town Crier Kentlands Town Crier PAGE 11 August 2008 Ahoy Mates! All Hands on Deck for Kentlands Pirate Pool Party BY ANDREA ESCHER he Kentlands Clubhouse staff transformed the pool deck pavilion into a pirate themed pool party on Saturday, July 12 complete with treasure chests, bandanas, tattoos, skulls and cross bones and more. Neighbors had a great time enjoying a traditional BBQ fare courtesy of Uncle Charlie’s and sampling a variety of side dishes and desserts. In conjunction with the pirate theme, residents were encouraged to bring their inflatable toys and rafts to the pool. Kentlanders didn’t disappoint in their pirate theme dress! Neighbors showed off their tattoos, eye patches, fake jewels and swords, just like real pirates. A good time was had by the Kentlands pirates of all ages. T 5K Continued from page 1 Please note: If you live NEAR the Race Course, and anticipate the need to drive anywhere before 10:00 a.m. on August 30, please move your car to a location that is not in a “tow-away zone” on August 29th (options include Lakelands Park MS, Lakelands Park Parking Lot past Kersten St, Rachel Carson ES, Kentlands Blvd, and Whole Foods or Bally’s parking lots). The Kentlands Community Foundation realizes the need to restrict parking and close streets or restrict access during the Race may inconvenience some residents and local merchants. We thank you in advance for your attention, understanding, and cooperation in making this year’s Race the best and safest ever! If you have any questions or comments, please call the Kentlands Community Foundation at 301.926.6636. It Is Not Too Late to Register or Volunteer! Volunteers & Participants Will Get Extra-special Goodies All registered runners and walkers will not only be treated to a first-class course showcasing the beautiful neighborhoods of the Kentlands and Lakelands, and once again be supported by LIVE ENTERTAINMENT along the way, but they will all receive special race t-shirts, and special “goody bags” this year, too. The t-shirt design was Photos Courtesy: Bob London created by 9-year-old Alexandra Greenwell of Little Quarry Road, and this year, the Race Bags will be provided by Whole Foods Market, featuring their new, “I-used-to-be-a bottle” Recycled bags! The bags will be filled with special promotional items from all of our generous sponsors, many of whom will be providing refreshments and small gifts to all the runners at the renowned Post-Race Festival and Expo in Market Square Plaza. Volunteers will all get FREE t-shirts, a FREE Starbucks breakfast on Race Day, and an invitation to the annual “5K Thank You Party” held each October. Come out and join the fun! To register to run, walk or volunteer please go to www.kentlands.org! If you reside on the following streets, please plan for the parking restrictions and access limitations that will briefly affect you on Saturday, August 30, 2008 from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on Race Day morning. Kentlands 5k Parking Restrictions Beckwith St (from Kent Oaks Way to Massbury) Booth St (from Midtown Rd to Hart Rd) Briscoe St Center Point Way (to Heathwalk St) Chestertown St (from NW Tschiffely Sq Rd to Midtown Rd) Clagett Crossing Mews Clagett Crossing Place Firehouse Ln Firehouse Mews Golden Ash Way Hart Mews Hart Rd Inspiration Lane Kent Oaks Mews (NE of Kent Oaks Way) Kent Oaks Way (from Walking Path to Massbury St) Kent Square Rd Leekes Lot Way Main St (from Midtown Rd to Kersten St) Market St Massbury St Midtown Mews Midtown Rd Selby St Thrift St Thurgood Mews Thurgood St Treehaven St Tschiffely Sq Mews Tschiffely Sq Rd (from Massbury to around Clubhouse) Golden Ash Mews (except btwn Inspiration Ln &Market West Mews) Alfandre St Alfandre Mews August 2008 PAGE 12 Kentlands Town Crier Kingfish End Summer Swim Season! he Kentlands Kingfish will remain in Division D for the 2009 season. Our new group includes Cedarbrook, Damascas, Poolesville, Regency Estates, and River Falls. T In a Dramatic Meet that Could not Have Been Closer, Kingfish end up Victorious by One Point! The 2008 Kingfish finished their dual meet season by hosting the undefeated Potomac Porpoises. Anyone looking closely at the meet program would know that we were in for a real fight, as the teams were well matched in all races. This one would come down to the team that wanted it more—and both teams wanted it more! Before discussing any details, it should be noted that this was the last home and regular meet for three of our Graduating Seniors—Emma Lister, Chris Morgan and Killian O'Brien. We celebrated with our traditional Crowning and Robing, followed by the graduation walk around the pool. All three of these young adults have been on the team since the last century...so there was not a dry eye on deck as they walked around! We will miss these leaders, swimmers, and friends! The meet itself doesn't need many details, as it would be impossible to single out any one swim or swimmer (although we will mention that John Freeman broke his own team record in the 100m IM!). It was just obvious to any casual observer that our Kingfish were fired up and ready to swim. Each swimmer raced the athlete next to them wall to wall--and competed as hard for the 1st and 2nd spots as they did for the 5th and 6th spots. We had 75 personal best swims, another testament to the competitiveness of our Kingfish. When Mr. Schlichting prepared to announce the final score, there was a hush on deck. 396 to 395...in favor of....Potomac. Our Kingfish looked so disappointed! But all coaches and parents were proud just the same—proud of the fast swimming, team spirit, and sportsmanship of our swimmers! That was not the end of the story, however. After two swimmers received ribbons for their events that were a lower place than they or the coaches thought Submitted by Kingfish SwimTeam they had finished, we went back to the lane/timer sheets from the meet to verify the results. As it turned out, there was a result/scoring entry error in event 48. When this was corrected, the score was the same...396 to 395....but this time in favor of the Kingfish! The Potomac reps and coaches were very gracious when this error was discovered, and agreed to the amended results. We need to thank the Potomac Porpoises for a great meet and the team spirit that matched our own. Kingfish Take Third at Division Relay Carnival! Congratulations to the coaches and swimmers for an outstanding performance at the Division relay carnival—thanks to wins in six events and no disqualifications, the team was able to place a very strong third at the meet. Congratulations to the following relay teams on their winning performances: Great swimming Kingfish! and outstanding cheering “The spirit, the smiles… THE KINGFISH!” Photos Courtesy: Alan Kresse Kingfish Korner • Girls 14&U 175 Freestyle Graduated Relay: Olivia French, Laura Luteran, Christine Pash and Maddie Dahut • Mixed 11-12 200 Freestyle Relay: John Freeman, Andrew Mann, Christine Pash and Megan Dougherty • Girls 14&U 100 Medley Relay: Meghan Chulock, Alexandra Cantrell, Christine Pash, and "The Closer"...Olivia French! • Girls 8&U 100 Medley Relay: Cecile Paquette, Madison Bettencourt, Olivia French, and Karolina Capala • Boys 11-12 200 Medley Relay: John Freeman, Henry Canova, Andrew Mann, and Nathan Kessler • Girls 13-14 200 Medley Relay: Rachel Meloan, Alexandra Cantrell, Maddie Dahut, and Meghan Chamberlain MANAGER’S CORNER Continued from page 6 and will post a notice on the community website, www.kentlandsusa.com. The Board has approved the request for proposals, bidders list and scope of work as they pertain to the Clubhouse re-roofing project. Additionally, the Board approved a contractor to perform the work at the June Board meeting. This project is slated to commence at the conclusion of the pool season. We continue to work in finalizing the project scopes and proposal requests for major capitol improvement projects throughout the community, including asphalt and concrete work. Please continue to consistently monitor and check the community website. There is some great news items about your community posted there as well as facility updates. Here is a quick KCA balance sheet summary as of June: Total Cash and Investment Funds........$1,633,904.48 Year to Date Income.................................$902,890.37 Year to Date Expenses...............................$890,151.06 We Currently Have a Net Surplus of .........$12,739.31 Kentlands Town Crier PAGE 13 August 2008 Photos Courtesy: Bob London Kentlands Kids Take the Stage Children’s Monthly Entertainment Program Proves to be a Popular Summer Activity BY ANDREA ESCHER hile most elementary and middle school children are busy enjoying the summer months at local camps, many pre-schoolers are left at home with little entertainment. But this summer Kentlands Activities Director Anita Parks decided to host a monthly program geared for the young Kentlanders who are not quite old enough to venture into the world of summer camp. The Children’s Entertainment Stage, co-hosted by the Kentlands Citizens Assembly and Andy’s Parties, meets once a month during June, July and August, at 10:00 a.m. on the pool deck pavilion. Each monthly stage showcases a new theme for the pre-schoolers, including Pirate Day in June and Luau Day in July. The children enjoy a series of craft activities, dress-up, games and dancing. During the July Luau Day, each child was provided with a grass skirt to learn the hula and made hand-crafted floral necklaces. The children ended the hour with the limbo. The final Entertainment Stage of the summer will be held on Tuesday, August 19 with a Rockin Dance Day theme. If your child is interested in participating, please register by contacting the Kentlands Clubhouse at 301-948-4290. W August 2008 PAGE 14 Kentlands Town Crier the color of home. the color of life. the color of certainty in Kentlands. 301-984-4092 Kentlands Town Crier PAGE 15 August 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 Bob Mann 10+ Years Experience • Home of the WATZA Private Label Never-Fail Router • Even Laser & Ink Jet Printer Repairs! Free Initial Consultation ~ Free Estimates Satisfaction Guaranteed! Serving the Kentlands and Lakelands Communities Call 301-495-3390 email: bob@watzanetwork.com web: www.watzanetwork.com Watzanetwork? is a service of WATZA, LLC. August 2008 PAGE 16 Kentlands Town Crier 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. “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 Kentlands Town Crier PAGE 17 August 2008 SCHOOL SCOOP Continued from page 10 Lakelands Park Middle School News Lakelands Park Middle School (LPMS) students will begin the 20082009 school year on August 26. Principal Joe Sacco said, “This is our fourth year and it will be a great year. We had a very successful year last year and expect an even better one this year.” A sixth grade parent orientation will be held August 21 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. It will provide information for parents to help prepare their children for a successful middle school experience. Orientation for incoming sixth grade students will be held August 22 from 7:55 a.m. to 11:40 a.m. At this time students will receive their schedules, tour the building and meet their teachers. Bus service will be provided. Sacco says the administrative is striving to become a “model middle school” and is taking concrete steps to get there. Based on responses from students and staff he has developed five “cadres” or action research groups. The cadres will study and research the following areas: Student Engagement, Staff Engagement, Academic Rigor (and preparing students for the future), Student Behavior and Eliminating the Achievement Gap. Sacco said, “The research from these groups will result in an Action Plan that will be used to build our School Improvement Plan.” Staff, students and parents are invited to take part in the cadres. Sacco is asking anyone interested in joining one of the cadres to contact the school. The groups will meet one or two Mondays each month after school. LPMS Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) President, Jennifer Palmiere says the group is focusing on two goals. One is to continue trying to improve communication between the PTSA, parents and students. “We have developed a new PTSA website that will hopefully go live at the beginning of the school year. I think that it is going to be really helpful,” said Palmiere. She explained that they will incorporate contests for students as a way of getting them to visit the website. The second big initiative of the PTSA this year will be a Direct Appeal Campaign. This campaign will replace all traditional fundraising efforts. Families will be asked to make donations directly to the PTSA. “All donations will be 100 percent tax deductible and all of the money will go directly to the PTSA,” said Palmiere. “We are hoping that it will be well-received.” They have set a goal of $10,000. Back to School Night will be held at the school on September 23 at 7:00 p.m. for all LPMS parents. This is an opportunity for parents to rotate through each of their children’s classes and meet their teachers. As the school year progresses please remember to look for this article each month to find out about all of the latest in LPMS news. PRESIDENT’S REPORT Continued from page 6 staff and the committees. It’s a great job, even if it doesn’t pay very well… goal at the start was to get to know more people, to improve KCA operations and budgets, and to not have any new enemies when it’s over. I’m pretty certain that all three missions have been accomplished. Aside from my term, two Board seats are expiring. I am not sure if any of the current members are planning to run for re-election. Work pressures are going to mean that it’s time for me to step down. The Board and the KCA Presidency are rewarding positions, letting you learn new things, know new people, and work toward the continued betterment of this amazing community. I hope you will think seriously about candidates to step up and carry the torch moving forward. For anyone interested in the President’s role, you need enough time to attend Board meetings as well as managing the committees and the office staff. A reasonable understanding of budgeting and people management is important since you will be the front line on preparing and managing budgets (with the very able backstop of the BFAC and the Treasurer) as well as managing the office BUILDING GOOD DENTAL HEALTH ONE TOOTH AT A TIME August 2008 PAGE 18 Budget Time Again As I write this the KCA’s 2009 budget draft is up to version 5 and it has not even been to the Board yet for their review! Version 1 was developed by our General Manager, Mac Staples, and CMC’s Tony Rouhani based on current spending trends. Version 2 was mine, with adjustments based on changes that have been in the works within our organization. Next it went to our Budget and Finance Advisory Committee who, in an intense 90-minute session, went through it at the fine detail level and made corrections and enhancements. The next two drafts developed over the last few days of emails with Mac’s further input and input from the BFAC. We still have a long way to go, but I need to thank everyone for their dedication so far. I know this will embarrass him but I have to single out Louis Paulson, who is my choice for this year’s Robert Randolph Award for valuable contributions to the budget process. In the last day alone Louis spent four hours building an extra spreadsheet to show which dollars come from which parts of the assessment – it is the missing page that makes the assessment calculation understandable. The exercise pointed out some logical errors in the previous models and helped to make sure the numbers are right and fair. This is a lot of work, but with a nearly $2 million budget, it has to be. Interest rates are down and commodity and energy prices are up. Inflation is hitting some of the items in our Reserve Fund budgets, such as asphalt, pretty hard. It’s a good thing we have been working hard at containing costs where we can. So now I am sure you are all wondering, what is your next year’s assessment going to look like? Not so fast! We have to meet with the Board and the public first. A meeting was held on August 5. The Board will bring input from the committees and discuss areas where the budget can be improved. The budget will also be discussed at the Annual Meeting on October 21 and approved by the Board at the October 22 Board meeting. You should look in the next issue of this newspaper for a detailed discussion of the proposed budget once we’re finished work over the next month. You will also receive details in the mail. Continued next issue… Kentlands Town Crier Meet Your Neighbors BY GINA DROPIK Photo Courtesy:Turner family Bob and Nancy Turner — Actively Enjoying Retirement Life in Kentlands entlands residents Bob and Nancy Turner are two neighbors who have made positive improvements for the betterment of the community. The Turner’s moved into their Midtown Road home in 1996 when the neighborhood was still under construction. By 1998 the couple became actively involved in the first committees established by the Kentlands Citizens Assembly. During these early years, both Bob and Nancy served on the Capital Improvements Kentlands neighbors Nancy and Bob Turner during Committee (CIC) and the their recent trip to the Matterhorn. Environmental Management Committee (EMC) where they were instrumental in such projects as the pool deck expansion, renovation of the Carriage House and remodeling of the Kentlands Clubhouse kitchen. “We feel it is important to Kentlands for residents to keep planning for improvement. Any organization needs to keep improving to remain viable,” said Nancy. As they became more involved in the neighborhood, Bob chaired the Budget and Finance Advisory Committee and from 2004 to 2006 and served as President of the Kentlands Citizens Assembly for two years. Nancy served as Chairman of the CIC. Although the CIC has disbanded, Bob and Nancy have ideas for additional community improvements once the newly developed conference room (and the proposed storage area) is complete. Their ideas include: (1) Modifying the Clubhouse porch to make it available for year-round use, so it can truly serve as both an expansion for the Clubroom; and, used by itself, as a more casual area, suitable for aerobics or children's activities. (2) Add a keycard (or similar) entry system to the existing security system for the Clubhouse front door so that K MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS Continues on page 22 RESOLUTION Continued from page 5 County or Partnership • Committees (Standing) — Management Processes – Not effectively using – Not effectively executing • Code Enforcement Opportunities • Committees • Volunteers (add list of opportunities to Express/Crier) • GE Track/Avalon Bay – What do we want here? • KCF Partnership Threats • GE Tract/Avalon Bay • Storm Doors – Code Enforcement • Kentlands Commercial District Development – Kentlands Blvd • Lot at Otis and Tschiffely — Buy, Leverage Property (Robyn and Neil) • Maintenance of “Non-functional land/lots/areas From the five top items in each category, the following priorities were selected with lead board member or president responsibility: PRIORITIES GE Tract (Lead Board Member: Trustee) • Put process in place to be prepared to address external opportunities and threats Kentlands Town Crier • Explore Montgomery Village/ Kentlands alliance – Washington Woods – Lakelands – Hidden Creek Code Enforcement (Lead Board Member: Chair) • Modify/amend design standards • Draft Top Ten List • Evaluate architectural code for equity • Direct process to CMC (Educate) Project Management (Lead: President) a. Infrastructure • Contracts b. Operations • Staff • CMC Operating Plan • Performance Management c. Committees • Policy for committee chairs • Process and Membership Finance (Lead: President) • Proactive budget preparation from CMC • Service Contracts Kentlands Community Foundation (Lead Board Members: Chair and Trustee) • Kentlands Community Foundation – Define nature of partnership – Include partnership in strategic plan PAGE 19 August 2008 COMMUNITY BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Need a service? We’re right in your backyard! 352 Main Street, 2nd floor Gaithersburg, MD 20878 240-447-9192 michellenew@kentlandskids.com www.kentlandskids.com DHC IS FULLY LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED FOR LIABILITY, WORKMANS COMP. & FLEET August 2008 PAGE 20 Kentlands Town Crier month old boy full time in Lakelands starting Sept. 1. I am also interested in a Nanny-share. Please contact me (sfox24@hotmail.com). K ENTLANDS CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE English Pine Country Buffet: Cream glaze, charming and reasonable price at $200.00. Call Betsy at 301-926-3916 to see Great storage and can fit into many decors. Brand New Bike: (purchased at an auction) 61 cm white frame, Widsor "The Hour" bike with fixed gear (no brakes). $150.00. Please call (cell) 301.448.9470 or 301.977.6311 (after 6:00 p.m.). Three Piece Family Room Table Set: Solid pine tables available for sale. Square coffee table, end table with drawer, and sofa table with drawer. Willing to sell together or separately. $30 for all three or $12 each piece. Perfect for college student or rec room area. Call 301-208-8802 to come see. Musical Instrument: Piano, Baldwin aclosonic spinet. 1978, made in USA. Almond color w/bench. A great buy at $575.00. Cash only please. Call 301-7871080. Children’s Items: Graco Duoglider stroller - can fit Graco infant carseat - $50. Chicco Mama High Chair - $50. Twinner II Baby Jogger in Cranberry $100 Single Baby Jogger in green $50.00 or Bike Trailer $75.00. Backpack for hiking with gear bag hardly used, $50.00. Contact paulaf1@comcast.net. FOR SALE: Golf stuff: Two pull carts for golf clubs, light-weight, fold-up, like new. $25 & $35. Men's set of Adams Idea Irons, Senior flex, graphite shafts, Aldila model, #3 thru #9 +PW irons (#3 & #4 are hybrids); set for $135. Ladies King Cobra SS Driver (350 cc) & #3, 5, & 7 Fairway metals; all 4 clubs for $120. Call Fred or Barb at 301-963-8111 or by email at: fbleonhardt@starpower.net. For Sale: Leather furniture, Natuzzi, love seat, oversized chair and ottoman, hunter green, good condition. Asking $500. Call 301-963-6061. For Sale: Gift shop closing. All fixtures must go! 301-977-9020. HELP WANTED Nanny Share Wanted: Looking to nanny share a warm, wonderful, nanny/housekeeper. Superior care giving and housekeeping skills, trustworthy. Hours available are flexible Tuesday through Friday from 8am to 1pm or later if necessary. One full day or weekly housekeeping also possibility. Please contact Marti @ 301.455.3628 or marti@expovision.com. Nanny Wanted: I am interested in finding a Nanny in this area willing to care for a 3 Babysitter Needed: I am looking for a responsible babysitter to take care of my 6 year old twins occasionally in the evenings during the week and weekends. Please contact me at emmanuellekramer@hotmail.com. MISCELLANEOUS Calling all would-be Spanish speakers! Last winter the KCA ran four once-a-week classes for residents interested in learning Spanish — two in afternoons, two in evenings. They were a lot of fun, and we made a good start in learning to speak/understand Spanish. This year we'd really like to move forward with the project by having classes through the school year — starting in September. And we need more students to join us in this intellectually stimulating and potentially useful activity! Anyone interested in learning Spanish should sign up with Anita Parks at the Clubhouse or call 301-948-4290. We're still pretty much at the beginning level — so now is the time to get started! FOR RENT For Rent: Furnished room/full bath in private Lakelands’ home with private entrance. Single, non-smoking person. Utilities and small appliances included. No W/D or access to kitchen. Please, no pets. Call 240.644.7737. Ocean City, MD Beach Condo For Rent: Upscale family condo with ocean views from living room, balcony & bedroom. Desirable North Ocean City home, 2 bedrooms, sleeps 6. Incredible location one minute walk to the beach! Modern kitchen, off-street parking with washer & dryer. Convenient walk to shops, restaurants, etc. Now accepting Summer and Fall reservations. Call 240 246 7564 or visit us at WWW.MBMRENTALS.COM. 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 301-527-1757 (Please no calls for apartment, it is an Art Studio/Office) Sell It, Find It, Share It In Kentlands Classifieds! Community classifieds are free to all Kentlands residents ($10 fee applied to non-residents). To place your classified, e-mail us at news@thekentlandstowncrier.com. Deadline for the September edition is August 29, 2008. COMMUNITY BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Need a service? We’re right in your backyard! Kentlands Town Crier PAGE 21 August 2008 MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS Continued from page 19 exercise aficionados may be able to access the exercise room at designated hours when the Clubhouse is not open (without access to clubrooms and offices). While Nancy and Bob devote a lot of time and energy to improving the neighborhood, they are both still on the EMC, and Bob remains a member of the B&FAC as well. They are also involved in the social aspect of Kentlands. They participated in the Spanish classes last spring, and hope to continue this fall, and have taken tennis lessons with Kentlands USPTA Tennis Professional Marna Katzel for many years. In July the couple celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary. They now have three children and two grandchildren. Their son Michael taught English in China for several years, and is now a bus driver for Montgomery County Public Schools. He lives in Takoma Park with his wife, Barbara and their two children, Ruth Ellen (8) and Rob (6). Daughter Christie lives in North Carolina with her husband and is a Department Head at the Health Sciences Library at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Wendy lives in Germantown and is a Supervisory Therapist at the Montgomery County Crisis Center. Their youngest daughter, Elizabeth, was a partner in a Dallas law firm, but contracted leukemia, and died in 2003. Bob is originally from Goose Creek, Texas and Nancy from New Brunswick, New Jersey. Both also lived in Brooklyn and Long Island while growing up. They met in the late 40’s while they were attending college at St. Lawrence University in Canton, New York. Bob graduated with Highest Honors in Physics and continued his postgraduate studies at Harvard where he received a Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics. Nancy received her degree in Math, also with Highest Honors. She worked as a library assistant for Catholic University while pursuing her Master's Degree in Library Science, and then, as a librarian for Montgomery County for 22 years, most recently as Adult Services Librarian at the Gaithersburg library. She also has volunteered for many years for the League of Women Voters. Bob began his professional career working for the General Electric Advanced Electronics Center in Ithaca, New York. After nine years he took a position with the Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) in Arlington, Virginia and then the Office of the Secretary of Defense, in Washington, D.C., for ten years, before returning to IDA. The Turners have spent most of their married life in Bethesda — in a five bedroom front-to-back split-level house, on 2/3 of an acre. Bob took a lot of pride in his yard and is very interested in trees. In 1983 he planted four Wye Oak trees in their yard and in 1993, they were approached by an arborist who asked to move one of the trees to Arlington National Cemetery as part of an arborist celebration. In 1996 the same arborist asked to uproot another of the special trees and plant it in the National Arboretum in Washington, D.C. “I bought those seedlings for $5 each,” Bob said. “I had no idea what would become of them!” Today Nancy and Bob are enjoying their retirement and take pride in their home, which they designed along with architects Manion and Coratola. “We did an extensive modification to our house in Bethesda which gave us the confidence to design this one,” said Nancy. “We’re very pleased with the way it turned out.” The couple’s landscaping won an award from the City of Gaithersburg in 2003. In their spare time they are pursuing their passion of traveling. They have taken a number of trips to many areas of the world including various parts of the United States, several European countries, New Zealand, Australia, Fiji and Canada. Their most recent trip was to Switzerland, where they viewed the Matterhorn. AT YOUR SERVICE! Business and Professional Services Directory Elizabeth Ayala, D.M.A. Teacher of Piano The Kentlands 301-977-5424 www.landscapesplus.com Reach thousands of readers with an advertisement in the Crier. Contact Andrea Escher at news@thekentlandstowncrier.com or call 301-519-1678. August 2008 PAGE 22 Kentlands Town Crier Kentlands Town Crier PAGE 23 August 2008 August 2008 PAGE 24 Kentlands Town Crier