NPT_December_2016

A CAomCmomunmituynNityewNsepwasppearp…er…BSUERECeSaYaadOIcllNshU3@m0REn1oAo.S3rrDe3tSh0ItNh.p5Oao8Tn7HtoW62Em4fNn,0oNaoE0wcX0rEt,TrimetRIoSahreSSdfUseeeo!.Emcr!swro!anmilwtehwieg.nhonbrethoipgrohtoobmoadrchstiomooefdsN.csooomrtfh•NDPoeorcttheommPboaetrco2m016ac

North Potomac’s Own Glenstone Museum: From Breathtaking to Beautiful

By Vanessa Mallory Kotz Photo credit: Scott Frances, courtesy of Glenstone Museum

When Emily Wei Rales and Mitchell P. Rales opened Glenstone in 2006, it was The Glenstone Museum with two of its outdoor sculptures. Untitled, by Ellsworth Kelly, is
an impressive undertaking. At the center of the two-hundred-acre former foxhunting the 45-foot-high work of stainless steel in the left foreground. And in the background, just
estate, the private museum is nestled among gently rolling green hills dotted with
carefully-placed priceless works of outdoor sculpture and framed by stands of majes- to the left of the building, is a sculpture made of weatherproof steel by Richard Serra
tic trees. This combination of landscape, architecture, and art is quite purposeful—and and titled Sylvester, named for renowned British art critic and curator David Sylvester.
it’s about to get even better. A new 170,000-square-foot museum building will pro-
vide some fifty thousand square feet of additional gallery space, more than quadru-
pling Glenstone’s existing exhibition facilities. The new museum building will also
incorporate a central water garden, a library, offices, and open art storage facilities.

“We are looking forward to welcoming more of the public from both Montgomery
County and around the world,” said Laura A. Linton, chief administrative officer at
Glenstone. “Our new building, The Pavilions, will significantly increase both our
gallery space and our ability to accommodate visitors, while enabling us to maintain
the serene, contemplative atmosphere integrated into a natural setting that is central
to the Glenstone experience.”

Traversing the long, winding drive is a purposefully-designed interval between
city and country, urban and natural. While contemporary in design, the handful of

wCONTINUED ON PAGE 9…

Zoning Amendment Delay: New Homes coming to 170-Acre

Will it Stop North Potomac Cell Towers? Hanson Family Farm in North Potomac

By Susan Petro By Susan Petro
In response to questions and concerns raised by community members regarding
The Hanson family recently selected Toll Brothers homebuilders to develop their
the proposed cell tower installations in residential neighborhoods and the zoning
text amendment (ZTA 16-05) that would have automatically greenlighted the mono- property, the last remaining working farm in the region: a 170-acre tract of land
poles under specified conditions, Council President Nancy Floreen announced that
the council will not consider action on the proposal at this time. that primarily abuts Quince Orchard and

One of several cell towers already installed in the midst of Travilah Roads where it intersects with
North Potomac neighborhoods. This one is located on Brickyard Road.
Turkey Foot Road. John Hanson, the
By not acting on the zoning amendment proposal, Floreen stated, “Pending tower
applications, if pursued by the applicants, will proceed under current law.” Floreen son of the farm’s owner, Robert Hanson,
added that under the current county law, any application not deemed automati-
cally approved under FCC legislation would require conditional use approval with and Tom Mateya, the Director of Con-
notice to abutting and confronting property owners and generally a three-hundred-foot
distance between an allowed pole and the closest home. tract Negotiations from Toll Brothers,

wCONTINUED ON PAGE 17… gave a presentation at the Nancy H.

Dacek North Potomac Community Rec-

reation Center on November 17, 2016

to a crowd of about forty interested or Photo credit: Susan Petro

concerned citizens.

Photo credit: Susan Petro. Hanson described a year-long process

that the family has undertaken to ensure

that the property, once developed, will

remain as beautiful as it is today. As the

family sought development proposals,

Hanson said they held a beauty contest, Concept plan for development of

and they looked at approximately fifteen the Hanson family’s “Prospect Farm.”
different plans. “Toll Brothers was not Proposed entrances to the development
the highest bidder,” said Hanson, but he
thought they offered the most attractive are from Quince Orchard Road in the
upper right corner of the diagram and
at the intersection of Travilah and Turkey

plans. Foot Roads at the bottom center.

The Montgomery County Parks and

Planning Board has long been eager to build athletic fields and add parkland to parts of

the property. They contacted the family way back in 1998 to inquire what the Hansons

planned to do with the property once it was no longer being farmed; however, Robert

Hanson had no desire to give up farming or to move away from the land where he had

wCONTINUED ON PAGE 18…

Contents…

PRSRT-STD Postal Customer Neighborhoods............................................. 3
U.S. POSTAGE ECRWSS People........................................................... 8
School & University News...........................10
PAID c/o Business Visions, LLC Business....................................................... 12
Gaithersburg, MD P.O. Box 83552 Events........................................................... 15
Gaithersburg, MD 20883-3552 Nonprofit Notebook...................................19
Permit No. 143

No one knows north Potomac Better!

Susan Fitzpatrick, MBA, CRS

Raising the Standard of Service

240-793-8523 cell

301-907-7600 office| [email protected]
Long & Foster|Bethesda Gateway
Over $1 Billion in Annual Sales

Back: Kevin Conley, Realtor; James Fitzpatrick, Realtor
Front: Melissa Hamlin, Realtor; Susan Fitzpatrick,Principal; Christine Mann, Client Services

The Fitzpatrick Group has been serving North Potomac since 1986. A 17-year resident of the community, Susan is also
president of the North Potomac Citizens’ Association. Team members Kevin, Christine and James were raised in North
Potomac and Melissa lives there now. So whether you’re buying or selling — in the luxury market or for the first time —

call them today. No one knows North Potomac real estate like they do.

The Fitzpatrick Group|www.theFitzpatrickGroup.com

Serving Maryland, Washington, D.C. & Virginia, Specializing in North Potomac

December 2016 2 www.northpotomactimes.com

NORTH POTOMAC TIMES • NEIGHBORHOODS

H.B.F. Boutique Helps You
Get Ready for the Holidays

By Vanessa Mallory Kotz

Mike McVearry and his wife Julie opened H.B.F. Boutique at 119 Crown Park

Avenue in Gaithersburg’s Downtown Crown in 2013. “H.B.F. stands for Health Community Updates

Beauty Fashion,” Mike said. “We carry candles, hair care, skincare, and offer great Cell Tower Controversy. The North Potomac Citizens’ Association has
scheduled an informational meeting on the cell towers in Montgomery County for
prices, unique clothing, and accessories with unmatched fashion styling.” December 13 from 7p.m. to 9p.m. at the new North Potomac Recreation Center,
13850 Travilah Road.
Mike and Julie have been in the fashion industry for a while now, working as The following is a brief update on recent developments relating to the cell tower
situation.
models among other jobs for designers such as Under Armour, Diane von
On October 26, the Montgomery County Council held a public meeting to discuss
Furstenberg, and Vera Wang. Their shop is truly diverse with offerings like custom- the proposed Zoning Text Amendment (ZTA) 16-05. ZTA 16-05 would have allowed
the installation of new cell towers on our front lawns or elsewhere in our neighbor-
printed tees for $15 and high-end skincare. They have something for everyone. “Our hoods without any public input, including from those directly impacted. The towers
would be about thirty feet tall and placed approximately every twelve houses. NPCA
sizes range from baby onesies all the way to men and women size 4XL,” Mike said. “We and more than 250 residents attended the meeting to voice our concerns.

cater to the entire family. Our Due to the feedback from the meeting, the Planning Housing and Economic
Development (PHED) committee has withdrawn ZTA 16-05. As a result of that
goal is to bring stylish unique withdrawal, the current zoning law, which requires a public hearing for all new
towers, remains in effect. Proposals for at least 120 new towers are pending and
clothing and accessories at could be filed at any time. At least seventy of these proposed sites are in North
Potomac, with many more to come throughout the county. These pending appli-
great prices to everyone.” cations are on hold while the County Council determines the next best steps to
proceed. If local jurisdictions make technology installations too burdensome, the
The couple is excited to telecommunications companies could request that the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) intervene. The FCC already enforces regulations prohibiting
announce a new product any opposition to cell towers based on health concerns, and it is likely to continue
adding regulations that favor industry expansion.
which would make a great gift
NPCA is working with HOAs and other concerned citizens to communicate with
this season. With the popular- the PHED committee, and it is hoping to help that committee draft an alternative
local ordinance that would protect our neighborhoods as much as possible. We are
ity of Birch Box, Stitchfix, staying on top of this matter and will keep you posted as new developments occur.

and other subscription ser- A new Ride On bus service (Route 301). The ridership in October exceeded
expectations with over fifty-eight people taking the bus daily! This route con-
vices, they have just launched nects Tobytown and the Rockville Metro and MARC stations via Travilah Road,
the Shady Grove Hospital, Wootton Parkway, and Falls Road. A ribbon cutting
the Accessory Box, Boxtique. to celebrate the inauguration of this new route took place on November 15. The
Photo credit: Phil Fabrizio schedule and route can be found at www.rideonbus.com.
Photo credit: Submitted.“Boxtique is a monthly acces-
The new Greenbriar Local Park had its grand opening on November 5 attended
sory subscription sending $50 by a huge and excited crowd. The park is located on Glen Road near the Potomac
Oak Shopping Center near Travilah Road and is also accessible by the new Ride
or more in stylish accesso- On bus route, as well as by car. This park offers twenty-five acres of natural open
space for the enjoyment of residents and neighbors, including a regulation soc-
ries to you for $19 a month,” cer/football field, a basketball/multi-use court, a grass volleyball court, and two
playgrounds for school-aged and younger children. The park is the first themed
Mike said. “We offer six- and park in Montgomery County: The Journey of a Raindrop. Visitors can learn
about watersheds, wildlife of the Potomac River, and the Chesapeake Bay. We
twelve-month subscriptions An example of Boxtique, H.B.F. Boutique’s encourage everyone to check it out!
with a twenty percent discount monthly accessory subscription.
being offered to subscrip- The Corridor Cities Transitway (CCT). NPCA recently learned that the County
Council and other county officials are pushing the state to allocate funds for the
tions purchased by December 31, 2016 using code PMBOX16. We are also offering CCT after the state announced the funding would be deferred until FY 2023
(Maryland Department of Transportation Draft FY17-FY22 Consolidated Trans-
package deals on custom t-shirt design and printing.” portation Program [CTP] www.ctp.maryland.gov). NPCA and county residents
have raised many concerns about the CCT, including its cost-effectiveness. On
H.B.F. Boutique offers a wide selection for guys, gals, and teens. October 31, 2016, NPCA board members and other citizens met with Maryland
State Delegates Kumar Barve, Andrew Platt, and Jim Gilchrest, and on November
The shop has most of what you need to get ready to wow everyone at your lineup 2, some of us met with Montgomery County Councilmember Sidney Katz and
of holiday parties this year. Mike recommends keeping the outfits to a minimum. Legislative Aide Brian Jones. We pointed out our many concerns with the project.
“Buying a new outfit for each event can be a cumbersome task. Use accessories to We will continue to follow this issue and hope to keep the funding off the table.
your advantage.”
The Annual NPCA Membership Drive. Our annual membership drive is
wCONTINUED ON PAGE 16… happening now and we need your support! Since 1988, the North Potomac Citizens’
Association (NPCA) has been proudly serving as the eyes, ears, and voice of the
Uptown Law, LLC North Potomac constituency. Thanks to the support of our neighbors, we have en-
deavored to keep everyone informed of the latest issues affecting our community.
Richard S. Stolker, Attorney Our all-volunteer board members organize regular Town Hall Meetings to be held
at the new North Potomac Recreation Center located at 13850 Travilah Road—
Bankruptcy • Litigation • Business Law featuring speakers representing diverse local issues such as politics, school issues,
Criminal Defense • Wills and Estates government services, recreation, and road projects.

  Check out our website at www.NorthPotomacNews.org or on
 
  Facebook at www.facebook.com/northpotomaccitizensassociation,

 and please consider joining and supporting NPCA!

December 2016 3 www.northpotomactimes.com

PUBLISHER’S POST Photo credit: Montgomery Parks. OCuotv&erinAg Cboomutmunity Stories…
Publisher Rod Mayer talks with
Welcome to our December issue! I just wanted to thank all of you who have visitors to the North Potomac
communicated to us about stories you would like to see in the North Potomac Times. Times booth at the grand
We have received dozens of emails and telephone calls with requests that we do opening of Greenbriar Local
stories on specific topics or that we publish various items of information in the news- Park, which was featured in a
paper. I apologize if the volume of requests has not allowed us to respond in a timely front-page story in last month’s
manner to all of you, but we will hopefully be catching up on our replies to you very issue of the newspaper. In the
soon. right foreground stands a
newspaper rack specifically
This month, we have two “late-breaking” news stories that savvy North Potomac labeled with the North
Times readers relayed to us by telephone just in time to get into this issue of the Potomac Times banner, that
newspaper. For the “Scouting for Food” story, we got wind of the event too late to we introduced at this event.
send out one of our own photographers, but I want to thank Mary Lou Gunderson Readers can now find the lat-
of the Quince Orchard Knolls neighborhood who told us about the event and cap- est issue of the North Potomac
tured some photos for us! For the “Little Free Library” ribbon-cutting at Dufief Times in the new racks at three
Elementary School, the school staff advised us of that event, as a result of our locations: the Quince Orchard
having done a story in a previous issue of the newspaper that focused on the school. Library, the Gaithersburg Library
You might recall that we attended the retirement ceremony for kindergarten teacher, on Montgomery Village Avenue,
Mrs. Peretzman, this past spring and reported on the event in the June issue of the and in the lobby of the new
North Potomac Times. North Potomac Community
Recreation Center at 13850
Just one final note on the publication/printing and mailing/distribution schedule Travilah Road.
of the North Potomac Times. The newspaper is usually printed on the next to last
day of the month, sent to the post office on the final day of the month, and then This month, as part of our Out & About column, we are pleased to begin
delivered to your home over the first three days of the month. This is the general
schedule we have been following, and we will customarily maintain that schedule introducing you to some of the people who contribute to the North Potomac Times
as we move forward. That said, our January 2107 issue may be a little late arriving
in your mailbox, allowing our newspaper staff members to celebrate the December as writers, editors, photographers, and other staff. The first member of the North
holidays through the end of the year. Expect delivery of the paper near the end of the
first full week of January 2017. Potomac Times team to be featured is Sharon Allen Gilder. You may recognize

–Rod Mayer Sharon since she appeared with publisher Rod Mayer in a photograph in this

column several months ago when the two attended the retirement ceremony for a

retiring kindergarten teacher, for which Sharon wrote the North Potomac Times

story. Sharon writes many of the stories on the nonprofit organizations that can be

found in our Nonprofit Notebook each month—and she has authored many of the

people profiles that have appeared in our North Potomac People column.

A Community Newspaper…

for the neighborhoods of North Potomac

The North Potomac Times is a publication of Business Visions, LLC Photo credit: Stone Photography, Inc.. Photo credit: Sharon Allen Gilder
an independent locally owned newspaper delivered
by direct mail to the home and business mailboxes of

“North Potomac” and adjacent areas (see map on page 18).

On the web at www.northpotomactimes.com

Publisher & Managing Editor The North Potomac Times Sharon Allen Gilder The cover of Sharon’s The Rose Beyond
and Business Visions, LLC
Dr. Rodney K. (Rod) Mayer do not endorse the products Native Washingtonian, Sharon Allen Gilder, is an author and freelance journalist.
[email protected] and services advertised herein, Her stories and articles have appeared in newspapers including The Washington
and are not responsible for claims Post, The Gazette, The Potomac Almanac, Great Falls Connection, The North
301.330.5876 made by the advertisers herein, Potomac Times, and The Town Courier as well as national magazines including
nor do they ensure the Montessori Life, Tomorrow’s Child, Home & Design, Advance for Speech-
Advertising correctness of advertisements. Language Pathologists, Montgomery Magazine, and the Arts and Humanities
Council for Montgomery County’s online magazine.
For advertising information check “rate The North Potomac Times
card” at www.northpotomactimes.com and Business Visions, LLC She is married, an alumna of the University of Maryland, and an educator. She
or email [email protected] reserve the right to edit, taught at Woodward High School in Rockville, and she wrote the curriculum, Safe-
ty, Touch & Me, for the Montgomery County Public Schools. For many years, she
Copy Editor/Contributing Writer/ reject or cancel any was the Director of Marketing for a private school in Rockville. An avid reader,
Calendar of Events Editor advertisement at any time. she caught the writing bug at an early age. She penned several children’s books
that she hopes to see in print one day. Her love of music prompted her to write an
Dominique Agnew Articles appearing in Irish drinking song in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. Her original song, “Oh, The
Contributing Writers The North Potomac Times Whiskey,” that she performs locally, can be viewed on YouTube.com.
are presented as a community
Sharon Allen Gilder service and do not necessarily Her debut novel, The Rose Beyond, a historical romance set in 1897 in
Susan Petro Washington, D.C. with characters who have ties to England and Wales, was
represent the views of published in 2014. The story is a fragrant reminder of the tenacity of the
Vanessa Mallory Kotz The North Potomac Times human spirit and the power of love. She is currently working on a sequel
to The Rose Beyond which she expects to complete very soon. She was a
Contributing Photographers or Business Visions, LLC. Featured Author at the 2015 Gaithersburg Book Festival and encourages all to mark
their calendars for the 2017 Book Festival on May 20.
Debbie Boderman Articles and letters submitted
[email protected] for publication must be signed and
debbiebodermanphotography@ may be edited for length or content.

zenfolio.com © Copyright 2016 The North Potomac Times
Taylor Thomas and Business Visions, LLC
Dennis O’Keefe

Phil Fabrizio

Layout and Graphics

Anne-Marie Thomas
AnyArt Solutions LLC • 301.602.4367
[email protected]

December 2016 4 www.northpotomactimes.com

NORTH POTOMAC TIMES • NEIGHBORHOODS

Scouting for Food: InAved$vtimceent
North Potomac—November 12, 2016
Growth or Income? Balance Is Crucial
Scouting for Food is an ongoing annual program of the Boy Scouts of
America begun in 1985 that collects food for local food banks. It is By Len Cohen, CFP
organized at the local level throughout the country. In the North Potomac
area, the effort is led by the Boy Scouts of Troop 291 and the Cub Scouts of When it comes to investing, most of us fall into one of two categories: Either
Packs 1761 and 210. we are trying to grow our assets so that they can provide an income for us in the
future, or we are already at the stage of life where we need our retirement assets
The parking lot of Quince Orchard High School served as to produce retirement income. In both cases, we use the same assets, but we need
the central collection point for food donations. to manage them differently. It can all become very confusing, but the key is to
manage risk consistently with our needs.
®
During the growth phase, we can tolerate a certain amount of volatility in our
Over 10,500 pounds of food—at an average portfolios. Account values go up and down, but we don’t lose unless we sell in a
of five pounds per bag—was collected. down market. Each of us has our own unique tolerance for volatility (which can
change over time). Short-term volatility often leads to long-term portfolio growth.
®
The situation is different if we are already using our investments to generate
Photo credits: Mary Lou Gunderson Manna Food Center, which provided food to an average of income. Since we are most likely liquidating some assets, we could be forced to
3,700 households each month last year, was the recipient sell in a down market. We need a strategy that compartmentalizes the volatile
of food collected during this year’s Scouting for Food. growth assets which protect against inflation, and at the same time holds assets
which provide stable value for income.

Both types of investors need to diversify, but each needs to diversify
differently. This is where investing can become confusing.

Diversification is the key concept for long-term portfolio stability. It means you
should own different types of investments called asset classes. The three basic asset
classes are stocks, bonds, and cash. Invested cash is most often a money market
fund, a bank deposit, or a short-term government security. Stocks are shares of
ownership in companies. There are as many types of stocks as there are types of
companies. We use the broad categories of U.S. or foreign, large or small, and
growth or value. Bonds are debts from either governments or corporations. They
vary by credit quality and duration to maturity, the date the loan principal is repaid.

A well-structured portfolio will have all of these asset classes in varying pro-
portions. Each asset class will gain or lose value independent of changes in the
other asset classes. Rebalancing is the process of bringing our current portfolio
back into line with the original asset class proportions. We rebalance the portfolio
periodically to make sure our targeted diversified allocation is maintained. By
rebalancing, we sell high-priced assets to buy lower-priced assets; buy low, sell
high. For income investors, we may need to adjust our asset allocation and rebal-
ancing strategy to allow us to continue to get income from our portfolio without
having to sell assets in a down market. Of course, diversification and asset alloca-
tion strategies do not assure profit or protect against loss.

Why balance? A collection of different investments is a portfolio, and the

different types of investments are known as the allocation. It’s important to keep
our investment portfolio allocated according to our overall investment strategy.
Why? Because we don’t want to overload in one area and neglect others. That’s too
risky. It would be like having a football team with a great offense and no defense
or the other way around—most likely, we would lose most of our games. The asset
classes in our portfolio are the components of a winning financial team.

What Else Do You Need? Nobody can tell how the stocks and bonds in

a portfolio will perform in the short run. On any given day, week, or month, the
value of any of the assets may go up or down. In the long run, though, in the ab-
sence of a catastrophe, a well-chosen portfolio of stocks, bonds, and cash is likely
to gain value. We don’t know which specific assets will gain the most, but despite
short-term volatility, we expect a balanced portfolio to grow. Aside from the cor-
rect asset allocation, the other element needed for success is time. Investing for
growth is not a quick fix; it is a process that takes years and patience.

What if you need current income? Some of us are not trying to

make our portfolios grow. We are at a stage of life where we need the portfolio
to produce regular and steady income. The tools to make the portfolio generate
income are the same, but we use different skills to manage risks while withdraw-
ing from the portfolio. This is much more difficult since time is no longer on our
side, but good strategies can still protect the portfolio so that we should be able
to construct a portfolio that will give us a good chance to make sure the money

lasts as long as we need it.w

Len Cohen moved to North Potomac in 1985 where his two daughters attended Jones Lane Elementary School. Len
is the founder and owner of CF Services Group, Inc., an independent financial services firm on Shady Grove Road in
Gaithersburg. Len can be contacted at 301.963.8820 or at [email protected].

Len Cohen is a Registered Representative of Cambridge Investment
Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer, member FINRA/SIPC, and an
Investment Advisor Representative of Cambridge Investment
Research Advisors, Inc. a Registered Investment Advisor.
Cambridge and CF Services Group are not affiliated.

December 2016 5 www.northpotomactimes.com



NORTH POTOMAC TIMES NO EXCUSES, NO APOLOGIES, JUST
NEIGHBORHOODS PRIVATE TRAINING WITH RESULTS.

‘Little Free Library’ Comes
to Dufief Elementary School

Each year, students at Dufief Elementary School participate in a “Contribut-
ing to our Community through Action” project. This year’s project, involving
third grade students together with the support of their teachers and the Media
Specialist at the school, resulted in the creation of a Little Free Library near
the school’s main entrance. The students learned about the idea of a Little Free
Library from a parent in the DuFief community, Mrs. Swenton-Eppard, who
was interested in bringing this type of library to the school. Students created
posters conveying the message of how the Little Free Library will contribute
to the DuFief community, and the Dufief Parent Teacher Association helped
purchase books for the library. Photos from the ribbon-cutting ceremony and
celebration of the new Dufief Little Free Library—held on November 22—are
displayed here. For further information on the idea of the Little Free Library,
visit littlefreelibrary.org—and look for stories in future issues of The North
Potomac Times on the Little Free Library concept which will also point you to
other Little Free Library sites in North Potomac.

Students Limited Time Offer Get Started Today!
examine
the 3 sessions for $99* 301.355.8042
Little
Brent Mascott, principal of Free Potomac
DuFief Elementary, served as Library 12189 Darnestown Rd
master of ceremonies for the after Gaithersburg, MD 20878
ribbon-cutting event for the the
Little Free Library at the school. ribbon- fitnesstogether.com/potomac
cutting
ceremony. *Limited time offer. Terms and conditions apply. See studio for details.

© 2016 Fitness Together Franchise Corporation. All rights reserved. Each Fitness
Together® studio is independently owned and operated.

SERVICES: Website Design ■ Graphic Design ■ Desktop Publishing
Branding ■ Illustrations ■ Voice-Overs

PRODUCTS: Office Technologies

Third grade students gather for ribbon-cutting ceremony. Happy Holidays
from

AnyArt Designer
and desktop
Solutions llc
publisher
business.art.technology of this

very paper!

Dufief Elementary School’s Little Free The new Dufief Elementary 301. ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Library before the ribbon-cutting. School Little Free Library.
email: [email protected]
Photo credit: Dennis O’Keefe Third grade teachers who supported the Little Free Library project: Design
Fran Solouieff, Heather Kaufman, Christine Hoffman, Carolyn Skrodzki. 602. ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ and office
technology
December 2016 website: www.anyartsolutions.com solutions

4367 ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ for your
business.

7 www.northpotomactimes.com

NORTH POTOMAC TIMES • PEOPLE

Housewives in the City Montgomery County Housewives’ Social Media Coordinator,
Lizabeth Coppock, and several guests at the October 21
By Vanessa Mallory Kotz Networking Event #mocohousewives.

Early this spring, Liz Folk founded the Montgomery County Chapter of Cheers to another successful Networking Event at Stanford Grill, Rockville.
Housewives in the City, a networking group that hosts fun, free monthly events. She
was inspired by national founder and NoVA resident Andrea Khoury, who presented MoCo Housewives love to partner Whether you join an Photo credit: Rachael Boer • Rachael Boer Photography • www.rachaelboerphotography.com
this call to action when she questioned why Folk made the long drive to Virginia with local nonprofit organizations, event alone or with
for Housewives events. Why not start a MoCo chapter herself? The busy mother of friends, you are sure
two, who also holds down a full-time job, took on the challenge with gusto. “Any- such as So What Else, to help
one can come. We cater to women, but we accept anyone. [This is] an open door for promote local philanthropy! to feel at home!
networking.”

Montgomery County events are held about once a month at various locations and
feature products or services by local businesses. The group also includes a fund-
raising/donation aspect for a different charity each time. In November, they met at
Copper Canyon Grill for a free skincare evaluation and great giveaways (swag bags!).
Volunteers from Support the Girls will also be on hand to collect bras and femi-
nine hygiene products for the homeless. Folk became aware of the charity when she
volunteered for A Wider Circle, in Silver Spring, and first learned about this need.

The nonprofit distributes donations of new/used bras and new sealed packages of
tampons and maxi pads to homeless women and girls across North America (and in
four locations worldwide). As stated on their website, “Women and girls who find
themselves homeless shouldn’t have to worry about finding bras, much less proper
menstrual products. Yet they wear the same bra for years (causing health problems)
and each month have to make a choice between paying for meals or buying a box of
tampons.”

Networking events take place about once a month, although Folk would like to do
more and be more accessible to people in the further reaches of the county. She sure
wouldn’t mind a little help from volunteers if you have the time. “It’s been great,”
she said. “I see a lot of good things happening. People are getting connected, learn-
ing about businesses in the community, making friends.” The group is not limited
to housewives or moms. Approximately one hundred people attend each month. “It
really varies,” she said, depending on the event venue and businesses being featured.
“Different people come each time. If you’re free, come on by. If you didn’t RSVP, it
doesn’t matter.”

Folk described the difficulty in meeting new people. If you work a lot, you hang
out with your colleagues. If you’re a mom, you might meet someone at the park
or daycare. If you have a dog, you meet neighbors during walks, but for the most
part, there’s not a lot of cross-pollination happening amongst different groups. “I
love seeing people connect,” she said, explaining how she’s always brought people
from different parts of her life to meet at her home. Founding the MoCo chapter of
Housewives in the City was a natural extension of what she was already doing.

Most important to Folk, and to the organization at large, is to keep it positive. She
wants to promote uplifting things in the community and bring people together in
an effort to improve their lives and have fun. “Leave your politics at the door,” she
warned, laughing, emphasizing that the events are “not criticizing or dividing. It’s a
safe place.”

When Folk started the Montgomery County chapter in March, there were five
regions participating in the organization. Now there are thirty, located all across the
U.S. “I hope it continues to grow,” she said.

For more information, visit housewivesinthecity.com, like their
Facebook page, and search for upcoming events on Eventbrite.

The next meeting of Liz’s chapter will be at the

wRockville Gordon Biersch on December 13, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

CAROLE R. HARRIS One of the perks of our monthly events is that you have the
opportunity to experience amazing restaurants, crafted
CREDENTIALED LIFE AND CAREER COACH cocktails, and delicious food: Stanford Grill, Rockville.

Through respected partnership, www.northpotomactimes.com
we will work together to transform
your life purpose and your strengths into career possibilities.

517-974-5522

[email protected]

http://www.harrisconsociates.com/home-page/

December 2016 8

wNORTH POTOMAC’S OWN GLENSTONE MUSEUM: FROM BREATHTAKING TO BEAUTIFUL CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1…

buildings (museum, house, and guesthouse) is crafted carefully from natural
materials that marry beautifully with the landscape. Currently, the museum houses
the Rales’ collection of outstanding examples of post-World War II art, acquired only
since 1990, when the popularity of these works was at the height of fashion and auc-
tion sales. Gracing the “floating” gallery walls (a signature feature of the design by
original architect, the late Charles Gwathemy, FAIA) are glowing paintings by Mark
Rothko and monumental canvases by Jackson Pollock. These are not early or minor
works but paintings made during the pinnacle of these artists’ careers.

Concentrating in:

PERSONAL INJURY

WILLS & TRUSTS

CRIMINAL DEFENSE

FAMILY LAW

LONG-TERM DISABILITY Drawing of future expansion of Glenstone Museum.

301.948.3800 • www.karplawfirm.net The new museum building, designed by Thomas Phifer and Partners together with
a new landscape design by PWP Landscape Architecture, will feature unique exam-
*A Professional Association consisting of individuals and a professional association ples and concentrations of work by major contemporary artists, meaning work cre-
ated since the 1970s. Two other new structures designed for the public by Phifer—an
Can your investments arrival building and a café—are integrated within walking paths, bridges, restored
make the world better? meadows, and woodlands throughout Glenstone’s grounds. More than six thousand
new trees of forty-three native species are being planted as part of the design. Some
thirty acres of land are being made into sustainable meadow, and more than four
thousand water lilies, irises, and rushes will vary with the seasons in the museum
building’s water garden.

Align your investments with your values Photo credits: Peter Guthrie, courtesy of Glenstone Museum

Did you know? Drawing of another angle on future expansion of Glenstone Museum

1. Socially Responsible Investing directs IRAs and The name Glenstone derives from two local sources: Glen Road, where the property
investments to help improve environmental, social, line begins, and a type of carderock indigenous to the area which is still extracted
and working conditions. from several quarries nearby. “That the name does not refer directly to its founders
is a conscious decision,” wrote the Rales in a statement on the website. “It is our
2. Socially Responsible portfolios perform as well as hope that for future generations, this name will evoke the same unique setting that
or better than socially indifferent portfolios, per we experience today. Miles away from the nearest museum, we hope that Glenstone
recent studies.* will be a destination for all who seek meaningful encounters with art, architecture,
and nature—for many years to come.”
3. Socially Responsible investors have influenced more
than 1,600 corporate actions globally since 2005.** Plans for the new building were just announced, and ground hasn’t been broken yet,
so make sure you schedule a visit now to truly appreciate the before and after.
WE CAN HELP YOU GET STARTED!
Glenstone Museum is located at 12002 Glen Road, Potomac.
Lenard S. Cohen, CFP Appointments are free and available Wednesday through Sunday every week.
[email protected]
wVisit glenstone.org to learn more.
9083 Shady Grove Court David S. Yarn
Gaithersburg, MD 20877 [email protected]

Securities offered through Registered Representatives of Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/
Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors,

Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. CF Services Group, Inc. and Cambridge are not affiliated.

* “Sustainable Investing, Establishing Long-Term Value and Performance”; June 2012 Deutsche Bank Group. ** www.proxyreview.org

301.963.8820 www.cfservicesgroup.com

December 2016 9 www.northpotomactimes.com

NORTH POTOMAC TIMES • SCHOOL & UNIVERSITY NEWS

Frontiers of Science Day By Dennis O’Keefe

On October 28, nearly 500 Montgomery County middle-schoolers spent the day conducting hands on science projects at high tech laboratories and medical
facilities in the county’s biotech corridor. The eighth Annual Frontiers of Science and Medicine Day was hosted by the Johns Hopkins University Center for
Biotechnical Education at its Montgomery County campus. Students were also able to visit Adventist Health Care’s (Shady Grove) Science and Medicine Center, the
University of Maryland Shady Grove’s pharmacology and nursing facilities and the National Institutes of Health Center for Advancing Translational Sciences at the
National Cancer Center. Seventh graders from Martin Luther King Jr. and Montgomery Village middle schools were able to observe and listen to front-line scientists
and medical professionals as well as participate in actual science experiments in this very popular event.

Polymer chemistry lab Students listen to a presentation on plate tectonics. Students compare their results from a polymer chemistry experiment.
preparations await the arrival

of middle-school students.

Students participate in a DNA testing exercise. Students pose with their “patient” after working in the
epidemiology lab to detect a possible infectious microbe.

Students in the DNA lab at the JHU Biotechnical Education Building work to determine the source of a genetic sequence.

Students at work at the polymer chemistry experiment station. Photos by
North Potomac resident,
December 2016
Dennis O’Keefe,
a retired lawyer
who now devotes
much of his time
to photography,
and covers events

for local
businesses.

10 www.northpotomactimes.com

NORTH POTOMAC TIMES • SCHOOL & UNIVERSITY NEWS

Quince Orchard High School Football Team claims 4A West Region & 4A State Championships!

Quince Orchard High School advanced to the 4A State Football Championship by defeating Annapolis, 42–14, on Friday, November 25. That championship
round game is scheduled for the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis on Friday, December 9 at 7:30p.m. Quince Orchard, which is making its
fifth championship appearance, will face defending 4A Champion Dr. Henry A. Wise, Jr. High School from Upper Marlboro. Tickets are $8, and the gates in
Annapolis open at 6p.m. The photos below are from Quince Orchard’s victory over Richard Montgomery that gave them the 4A West Region Championship.

Quince Orchard Quince Orchard Team after defeating Richard Montgomery, 49–23.
Girls’ Volleyball
Mike Fierstein, Jacob Bernard, and Joe Hodges
The Quince Orchard girls’volleyball surround QO Head Coach John Kelly and give
team in action in November against
Kennedy High School. With a 3–0 him a Gatorade bath as time ran out in their
win over Kennedy, the team ad- contest with Richard Montgomery.
vanced in the region finals of the
Maryland Public Secondary Schools Fresh from his Gatorade bath,
Athletic Association (MPSSAA). QO Coach John Kelly is all smiles as he heads

December 2016 to congratulate his team on winning the
4A West Region championship.

Photos by Phil Fabrizio,
an event, news, and sports
photographer in the Wash-
ington, D.C.-Metro area.
He lives in North Potomac
and has operated Sugarloaf
Photography since 1985.
You can follow him on Twit-
ter @PhotoLoaf, or through
Facebook at www.facebook.
com/sugarloafphotography1/.

11 www.northpotomactimes.com

NORTH POTOMAC TIMES • BUSINESS

Gaithersburg-Germantown Spotlight on
Chamber of Commerce, Inc. the GGCC…

Your Voice for Business Laura Rowles and Marilyn Balcombe celebrate the
opening of the Clarksburg Premium Outlets.
by Marilyn Balcombe, President and CEO
Barbara Crews
Why Businesses Should Locate 4. The Maryland SoccerPlex hosts and Leslie Photos courtesy of Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce.
in the North I-270 Corridor 650,000 visitors and, through its Ford Weber
twelve tournaments, generates $24 welcome the
The Gaithersburg-Germantown Cham- million in positive economic impact Chamber to
ber recently released a report entitled per year. Johns Hopkins
North I-270 Corridor Economic Devel- University.
opment Profile which highlights the com- 5. The North I-270 Corridor is home to
petitive advantages of locating a business the educational institutions feeding the Upcounty Legislative Breakfast with County Executive Ike Leggett
in the North I-270 Corridor. As the newly- pipeline of talent and workforce for the and State Senators Nancy King and Brian Feldman.
formed Montgomery County Economic county. With the Montgomery College
Development Corporation (MCEDC) Germantown Campus, the Universities Chamber networking.
begins its charge of achieving greater at Shady Grove, and Johns Hopkins
economic competitiveness and prosper- University, the North I-270 Corridor is
ity across the county, this economic de- the only place in the county where our
velopment profile will provide a firm un- residents can earn Bachelor’s as well
derstanding of the North I-270 Corridor as advanced degrees.
and reinforce the fact that the corridor is
an outstanding place to do business. To 6. With Shady Grove Adventist Hospital
provide a snapshot of the commercial po- and Holy Cross Germantown Hospi-
tential in the Corridor, we looked at eco- tal located in the North I-270 Corri-
nomic data that depicted the commercial dor, the area has comprehensive med-
real estate market, including available ical resources available. Holy Cross
commercial space, potential future de- Germantown Hospital is the first hos-
velopment, average market rent, vacancy pital in the country to be located on a
rates, potential job growth, workforce and community college campus.
economic demographics, and economic
demographics and quality of life assets. 7. Home of Hughes, the number one
high-speed satellite internet ser-
We define the North I-270 Corridor to vice with more than one million
include the Great Seneca Science Cor- HughesNet® subscribers in North
ridor, Gaithersburg, Germantown, and America. To date, Hughes has manu-
Clarksburg. The critical thrust of the report factured and shipped more than four
identifies the great capacity for additional million terminals to customers in
jobs along the Corridor. For instance, there over one hundred countries.
are more than 21.7 million square feet of
existing commercial space in the North 8. Home of AstraZeneca/MedImmune
I270 Corridor, equating to roughly 13,000 with $1 billion annual investment in
potential jobs. Based on the master plans research and development and 3,500
of the identified submarkets, there are an employees. Filled with cutting-edge
additional 31 million square feet of pro- technology, their lab spaces were cre-
posed development capacity which could ated to facilitate collaboration, inter-
yield an additional 100,000 jobs. action, and cross-functional science.

For the full report see: 9. With more flex space than any area
www.ggchamber.org/advocacy/ in the county, the corridor has many
available buildings that will accom-
270-corridor-economic-profile/ modate a multitude of uses, includ-
ing wet labs at a lower price point,
Top Ten Things You Need to providing companies with a variety
Know about the North I-270 of options.
Corridor:
1. We are the Bio Capital of Montgom- 10. NIST sets the standards for calibra-
tion and measurements nationally and
ery County, with the highest concen- internationally in some cases. For in-
tration of bio companies in the county. stance, NIST has maintained the na-
Our leading industry sectors are life tion’s primary time standards since
and health sciences, cyber security, 1949. After six generations of fine-
and the federal government. We are tuning, the current accuracy standard
home to the National Cybersecurity is one second in twenty million years.
Center of Excellence, the National
Institute of Standards and Technol- Additional Housing at Crown West-
ogy (NIST), and the National Can- brook has submitted Schematic Devel-
cer Institute. We are also home to the opment Plan (SDP) to the City of Gaith-
Germantown Innovation Center, the ersburg for the last two neighborhoods
county’s only life sciences incubator. within Crown. This application proposes
2. The North I-270 Corridor is served the construction of 432 residential units
by three major national and interna- in Neighborhood 3 comprised of condos,
tional airports within an hour’s drive townhomes, and single family detached
and two additional regional airports units. Neighborhood 5 is a single multi-
within thirty minutes. family building with up to 445 units and
3. If Germantown were incorporated, up to 15,000 square feet of commercial
it would be the third largest city in space on the ground floor.
Maryland.
More info at: www.gaithersburgmd.
gov/government/city-projects/
crown-neighborhoods-3-and-5

wCONTINUED ON PAGE 13…

December 2016 12 www.northpotomactimes.com

NORTH POTOMAC TIMES • BUSINESS

The McKelvey Group, Inc.: North Potomac
Helping Clients Grow Their Businesses Business Calendar

Photo credit: Susan Petro By Susan Petro For Gaithersburg/Germantown Location: Lakewood Country Club,
Matt McKelvey, the president and CEO of the McKelvey Group, Inc (TMG), Chamber of Commerce (GGCC) 13901 Glen Mill Road, Rockville.
events, please register in advance at The doors will open at 10:45 a.m. for
a local financial accounting firm, has never been one to shy away from a challenge. informal networking.
When not running his company, you may find him running a marathon or competing ggchamber.org or contact Laura
in an IRONMAN triathlon. “I set goals, and once I achieve them, I set higher goals,” Rowles at [email protected] December 8
said McKelvey, who started doing races in his twenties, beginning with a 5K race
and then moving into triathlon competitions a few years later. or 301.840.1400 x14. Annual Celebration Dinner and
Awards Ceremony (GGCC Event)
“I’m not fast. I don’t have any delusion of competition,” said McKelvey. “I enjoy For eWomenNetwork events, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
the challenge.” He also likes working together as part of a team, working and training please contact Stephanie Bonte-Lebair What a Small Business
together. “It’s a great community thing outside of work and family. Owner Needs to Know about Taxes
at stephaniebontelebair@ Cost: $125 per person/Sponsorship’s
The McKelvey Group founder and CEO, Matt McKelvey, loves challenges— ewomennetwork.com or Varying Levels Available. Location:
whether helping his clients, or participating in IRONMAN competitions. Holiday Inn Gaithersburg, 2 Montgom-
917.251.7866. ery Village Avenue, Gaithersburg.
Numbers are another challenge McKelvey enjoys, beginning from his early school
years when he excelled in mathematics. “Math always came very easily for me. In December 6 December 13
elementary through high school, I did very well,” said McKelvey. “It’s a natural for
me.” McKelvey holds an MBA in Finance and Marketing, and a BS in Business; how- NCCoE Speaker Series: Young Professional
ever, McKelvey said his math skills aren’t the reason he’s been successful throughout “Understanding, Detecting, Group Holiday Happy Hour
his career: “What has really made this company succeed and helped me get here is that and Mitigating Insider Threats” (GGCC Event)
I acquired skill sets from working for many differently-sized companies.” (GGCC Event) 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
1 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. Cost: $10 cash donation to a local
The McKelvey Group, which is located at the RIO Washingtonian business and Cost: Free. Advance registration re- nonprofit. Location: Ted’s Montana
shopping complex in the Launch Workplaces building, offers its clients expertise in quired. Location: National Cybersecurity Grill, 105 Ellington Boulevard, 
four basic services: finance and accounting, federal contracting and pricing, valua- Center of Excellence, 9700 Great Gaithersburg.
tions, and training. “It’s all around the idea of supporting companies in their finance Seneca Highway, Rockville.
and accounting operations; basically, letting owners sell, deliver, and manage their December 16
companies and not worry about the back,” said McKelvey who adds that his team December 8
offers all types of accounting support whether it’s bookkeeping support, account sys- Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
tems setup and maintenance, or operations for commercial and federal contractors. eWomenNetwork “Accelerated (GGCC Event)
Networking” Luncheon 11 a.m. to noon
“We also do government pricing contract support—anything from a ten thousand to 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Celebrate the grand opening of the
a multi-billion dollar bid, we support it,” added McKelvey who learned many of the ins new space for children and students at
and out of working around government contracts during his years working for Com- Featuring: Kristin Brindley on Gifting Seneca Creek Community Church.
puter Data Systems, Inc. and Affiliated Computer Solutions, Inc. “Federal contracts Strategies. At this powerful event, Cost: Free for All. Advance registra-
require a very rigid set of accounting processes and procedures,” explained McKelvey you’ll learn: the power of gratitude, tion requested. Location: Seneca Creek
who is proud of the fact that every TMG client who has gone through a DCAA what and how to use the five-minute Community Church,  13 Firstfield
(Defense Company Audit Agency) or government audit has passed on its first try. journal; and tips for Gifting-Giftology.
Cost: $57, $67 for late registra- Road, Suite 100, Gaithersburg.w
McKelvey moved from ACS to work as a Process Improvement Expert with tions beginning December 6; $47 for
General Electric. Although McKelvey gained valuable experience working for GE, eWomenNetwork members. Exhibitor
he realized he just didn’t love working for the big companies. “I realized that I liked cost: $95; $65 for eWN member.
working for smaller companies because I would save forty million dollars at GE, and
it barely even moved a decimal point on the financial statements,” said McKelvey, wGGCC YOUR VOICE FOR BUSINESS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12…
who also spent time working for smaller companies towards the end of the dot-com
boom. “There were some success and failures, all of which I learned from; I learned State Receives Grant from U.S. Department of Labor
how to make the payroll every two weeks!”
The Department of Labor has awarded Maryland a $2 million grant to invest
When the mid-size company where McKelvey worked as the CFO was bought in the state’s apprenticeship program. “Apprenticeships allow Marylanders to
out by another company and they were bringing in their own management team, he work while they learn in some of the state’s leading industries. Investing in the
wasn’t sure what he was going to do next, but he thought he would take some time future of the state’s workforce means investing in registered apprenticeships,” said
off for the first time since he was around fourteen years old. He wanted to spend more Maryland Labor Secretary Kelly M. Schulz. The state is aligning apprentice-
time with his wife and daughter whom he wasn’t seeing enough of because of his ships with the Maryland’s workforce system to ensure that traditional appren-
frequent traveling and busy schedule. ticeship opportunities expand with labor demand. The new funds will be used to
provide staffing and outreach to businesses interested in creating apprenticeship
During that time, McKelvey said he kept getting phone calls asking for help, so opportunities.
he started to respond to people and discovered that he loved consulting. “My whole
career had been in finance,” said McKelvey. “I had experience with a large variety and We wish you the very best of the Holiday Season.
sizes of businesses with different backgrounds. I found that I could actually help small
or mid-size companies potentially avoid the same mistakes I learned the hard way.” wFor upcoming Chamber events, see the Business Calendar above.

In addition to financial and accounting services, the McKelvey Group also offers TMG has grown considerably in the past few years, from a four-person company
business valuation services. Matt is a certified Accredited Senior Appraiser for busi- with a shared office space to twenty-four employees and continuing to grow. McKelvey
ness valuation with the American Society of Appraisers. He also offers training in credits his team for the reason they are growing. “I maxed out several years ago,” said
government accounting and pricing. “My favorite part of my job is teaching; I love McKelvey. “You can only do so many things, so unless you have a good team around
leading the classes,” said McKelvey. you, you are going to hit a point where you are not going to grow any further.”

McKelvey and his team of employees make it their number one responsibility to
help their clients grow. “We always focus on how we are going to help our clients
deliver to their clients.”

“The best piece of advice I got early on was to remember who your client is and
what you are doing for them,” said McKelvey, “you are helping them with their
clients.” It is the client’s client whom the McKelvey Group’s team is ultimately seek-
ing to impress. “If we impress them, we are always going to stay in business and
continue to grow.”

McKelvey is married and has two children, a daughter, aged twelve, and a

ten-year-old son. “They are my joy and the reason I am working the hours that I am.”w

December 2016 13 www.northpotomactimes.com





NORTH POTOMAC TIMES • EVENTS

A New Take on a Modern Classic Calendar of Events

By Dominique Agnew wOTHER HAPPENINGS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15…
Ankh Repertory Theatre and the
December 13 calling 301.258.6366. $5 each. 810
Finest! Performance Foundation Inc. ROCKVILLE-TOWN SQUARE South Frederick Avenue. 10 a.m. to
are thrilled to present Black Nativity, a ROCKVILLE GORDON BEIRSCH noon.
musical based on the book by poet/ Montgomery County Housewives
playwright Langston Hughes. In this December 27
retelling, the traditional Nativity story Enjoy a fun night out of networking, GAITHERSBURG-OLDE TOWNE
features an all-black cast and is placed shopping, and mingling. Please register GAITHERSBURG COMMUNITY
in a modern setting; well-known Christ- your ticket via Eventbrite. Our vendors MUSEUM
mas songs are sung in a gospel style. will be doing giveaways and raffles All Aboard StoryTime Station
“The beauty of [Hughes’s] vision was to afford future generations to mix their own all night! Free. 100 Boardwalk Place.
music and indeed stories within the context of the script. He saw a way to keep 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. StoryTime Station’s enriching pro-
this work timeless by affording producers and director the opportunity to make the gram at the Gaithersburg Community
script their own while keeping the integrity of the story alive and well,” according to December 17 Museum consists of a 45-minute read-
Kelly Chauncey, founder and artistic director of Ankh Repertory Theatre (ART), and GAITHERSBURG ing, recommended for ages 3 to 6, and
cofounder of the Finest! Performance Foundation Inc. “This is what attracted us to CASEY COMMUNITY CENTER children will be provided with a take-
this work.” Morning with Santa home craft activity to continue the
experience at home following each ses-
This fluidity in the script and music allowed Chauncey and Kashi-Tara (Barrett), Now celebrating its fortieth anniver- sion. This month’s theme is: Holidays.
founder and artistic director/choreographer/writer of ART (and cofounder of sary, Casey Community Center is a Advance purchase is recommended as
the Finest! Performance Foundation Inc.), to incorporate some new music by unique place for a visit with Santa. It space is limited. To make reservations
Gaithersburg’s Joshua Sommerville into the mix of gospel and spiritual favorites. traces its history back to the turn of the online, visit www.gaithersburgmd.gov.
century, when it served as a dairy barn. You may also pay at the door if space
Adapted and choreographed by Chauncey and Kashi-Tara, this version of Black Bring your own camera to capture is available. For more information, call
Nativity is filled with classic and contemporary gospel music, African dance and photos with Santa, decorate a holiday 301.258.6160 or visit the city’s web-
drumming, “and I have to tell you,” Chauncey said, “the voices in this cast are indeed cookie, color a winter picture, and en- site. $3.00 per child; adults and infants
truly special…When we add all of this to a gumbo of original, classic gospel and a joy listening to a story read by Santa’s are free. Children must be accompa-
few traditional holiday songs by Joshua Sommerville as well as new arrangements of Elves next to the fireplace. For chil- nied by a parent or guardian. 9 South
modern contemporary gospel songs by Mr. Levi Terrell, what we hopefully end up dren of all ages, including adults. Tick-
with is a heartwarming story about the strength and resolve of family and the unapol- ets may be purchased in person or by Summit Avenue. 11 a.m.w
ogetic, unyielding faith and love of the holiday season…with a very special birth!”
wH.B.F. BOUTIQUE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3…
While Kentlands may not be Bethlehem, the Arts Barn may be the next closest
thing to a manger in this area. “The Gaithersburg Arts Barn is a fabulous theater Start with something like the Annah Dress ($98), a sexy yet work-appropriate off-
space,” enthused Chauncey. “The intimacy of the performance space places audi- the shoulder number in electric blue. Pair it with the Suave Clutch ($48), chic mesh
ence and cast on the front lines of emotional connection. Audience members are not bangle ($12), some diamond posts from your jewelry box, and a patent leather pump,
just ‘watching’ the story unfold, they are a part of the process, a part of the story… and you’re all set for the office Christmas party. Change it up for a romantic holiday
We find our creative process to be limitless in this gem of a theater.” date with chandelier earrings, strappy heels, and a bit of sparkle with gold eyeshad-
ow. Bring out your eyes even more with lash extensions applied in the store for a truly
wFor details about the show, see the Calendar of Events on page 15. dramatic look your date won’t be able to resist.

Patriot Wrestling Club Have a teenage daughter? She’ll love the Ballie Dress ($52). The layered tulle
skirt and black strapless bodice are the perfect fit for family gatherings and high
school dances alike. Pair with comfy flats like the Harmony Shoe ($30) and drape
a lace scarf ($8.50) over her shoulders to ward off the chill and add a little modesty
for Grandma’s sake. She can lose the wrap and add a sweet pink bow pearl necklace
($14) and bold lip in a deep burgundy or purple shade for a night out with her friends.
While you’re at H.B.F., treat her to a brow shaping to make her feel extra special.

Don’t forget the guys! A well-made crisp white shirt, left open at the throat, goes
with everything. The Dillinger Shirt ($80) paired with slim silhouette dark jeans and
boots for a casual family gathering. It’s also perfect with a blazer, slacks, and a sleek
belt (three-piece men’s Adjustable Synthetic Belts, $15) for a slightly more formal
affair. Adorable kids’ shoes and infant onesies with cheeky screen-printed slogans
ensure the whole family will look great.

The service at H.B.F. is always friendly, always personal, and the staff is delighted
to help style you for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for workout gear for the
Turkey Trot, or a mile-high stack of bracelets to make your LBD (little black dress)
come alive, a visit to H.B.F is the place to get holiday ready—and pick up a hostess

gift or two in their candle shop.w

Registration open for youth wrestling team Concierge
Driving Coaching
• For new and novice wrestlers ages 6–14
• Focus on technique and conditioning •MVA Certified Coaches
• Practice on Mon. and Wed. 7:00–8:30pm •HIGH SUCCESS: Taught Thousands to Drive.
• At Wootton High School through •HIGHEST SAFETY RATED VEHICLES by Insurance

February 2016 Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS.org).
• Competes in MYWL Recreation •CONVENIENCE: Pick-up & drop off at your Site!

League on Saturdays CALL TODAY for More Information (301) 956-8894
Email: [email protected]
www.mdeagleswrestling.com
301-807-6654

December 2016 16 www.northpotomactimes.com

NORTH POTOMAC TIMES • EVENTS

wCELL TOWER UPDATE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1… Not Your Usual Red Nose By Dominique Agnew

Local North Potomac resident, Andy Spivak, warned that a lot of people are He may have had a very shiny nose,
misinterpreting the announcement as a victory, but it is not. “Council President
Floreen is correct, namely, that the existing zoning law would result in the rejec- you might even say it glows, and there’s
tion of all the proposed towers,” said Spivak who added that those rejections would
then merely be challenged by Crown Castle on the basis that the county’s exist- a good chance he’ll go down in history,
ing laws deny the federal government’s mandate not to block the deployment of
telecommunication networks to the citizens. but this Rudolph ain’t no reindeer—he’s

Crown Castle and Mobilitie are the two major corporations who are seeking to install a dog, and his name is Rufus.
small cell or distributed antenna systems (DAS) infrastructure throughout the county
by means of monopoles, many of which would be located in the right-of-way in front Originally written in the 1970s by
of neighborhood homes. These proposed installations are being hotly contested by
many residents who currently have only underground utilities and are worried about the Michael Cotter, artistic director and pro-
potential long-term health effects, aesthetic concerns, and decreased property values.
ducer of Blue Sky Puppet Theatre, Rufus
Currently, these antennas are deemed automatically approved if located on existing
utility poles under specified conditions; however, each antenna weighs in excess of the Red Nosed Raindog hasn’t gone out
three hundred pounds which raises concerns of safety if the pole were struck by a
vehicle or damaged in a storm. Many DAS systems are already visible atop utility of style. “We’ve been performing this
poles along Travilah, Dufief Mill, and Darnestown Roads, to name a few.
show for thirty-nine years, and it’s always
On October 26, 2016, a standing-room-only meeting took place at Ridgeview
Middle School in order for councilmembers and other experts to answer questions fresh,” explained Cotter. “It’s one of these
and hear testimony from concerned residents. Council President Floreen, and Council-
members George Leventhal, Hans Reimer, and Sydney Katz attended along with the gems that popped into our repertoire”
County Tower Committee Chair Marjorie Williams, ultraMontgomery Project Director
Mitsuko Herrara, and representatives from Verizon, Crown Castle, and Mobilitie. and it’s one of the audiences’ favorites.

Cotter founded Blue Sky Puppet Theatre Michael Cotter (and friends) enjoys
forty-two years ago with Jeremy Young telling stories, sometimes with a twist.
and Young’s wife, dedicating every per-

formance to “excellence in theatre, art,

music, and fun,” and he oversees over one

thousand shows per year.

Rufus the Red Nosed Raindog is a

contemporary story about acceptance.

Rufus, a lost and lonely little dog finds

shelter in a home (Santa’s workshop) dur-
Photos credit: Montgomery County Council.
Photos credit: Submitted.ing a storm. At first, people don’t believe

he’s a dog because of his nose. Finally,

they come to love him for who he is, and Santa will be at the Arts Barn
Santa ends up sending Rufus out to look visiting children and telling a story

for other dogs lost in the rain. “It’s an ab- about a very special dog.

surd story,” admits Cotter, “but the whole

idea is that we find out that everyone’s

different, everyone’s special.”

Despite the holiday connotation in

the title, Rufus the Red Nosed Raindog

Nancy Floreen, Montgomery Nancy Floreen joins other members of the is part of Blue Sky’s repertoire for year-
County Council president, addresses Montgomery County Council in front row
to listen to a presentation at the meeting. round performance. During the rest of
attendees at October 26 meeting.
the year, Santa’s character is replaced by

Floreen, who chaired the meeting, described the challenges the county legislators none other than Dr. Tooth.
face in regards to the cell tower proposals. “Current rules apply to much taller towers
that have a three-hundred-foot setback,” said Floreen, “but they are much taller. If Blue Sky’s puppet shows encourage au-
nothing is done, the challenge is all the applications may be denied, and then turned
around and approved with no county oversight. dience participation. Rufus the Red Nosed

“If we don’t do anything, we’ll see what happens, but we are likely to be preempted Raindog will open with a preshow sing-
by the federal government,” warned Floreen who said that with the zoning amend-
ment in place, at least there would be a system to go forward. “We are all frustrated along of Christmas songs, and there will
with the FCC, we are stuck with these parameters, we are trying to figure it out and
that is the point of this community conversation,” said Floreen. “We are trying to be be opportunities for the audience to join
respectful, we are taking our time, but at a certain point, you might get everything
you don’t want because we’ve been unable to craft a better path. in singing during the show. There will A dog? With that nose? It can’t be!
even be a bark-along during the show.
During the meeting, many residents spoke up to express their concerns that the
county has not done enough to protect the citizens and their communities. Local resi- Cotter is looking forward to returning to the Arts Barn. “We have worked with
dent, Janis Sartucci, has been monitoring the actions of Montgomery County’s Tower
Committee for many years. Sartuccci told the councilmembers that the Tower Com- them in the past,” said Cotter, “and we’re looking forward to doing it again.”
mittee is tasked with minimizing the adverse impact amongst the citizens and that
their meetings need to be open and easily accessed for public attendance. “Right now, wFor details about the show, see the Calendar of Events on page 15.
they are just conference calls,” said Sartucci. “They just take the tower committee
consultants’ information verbatim. There is no review. We’ve seen them pass appli- who want to install and occupy the monopoles, not all residents are convinced that the
cations where the property owner has not even consented to build a tower.“The tower poles are safe.
committee is doing nothing but rubber stamping these applications,” said Sartucci. “I
can tell you that because I’ve been to the meetings, I’ve seen the process.” Sartuccci One concerned resident from Germantown spoke up and expressed frustration that he
added, “Sometimes there isn’t even an address, there is just longitude and latitude had no idea there was a tower proposed within thirty-five feet of his grandson’s bedroom
information—there isn’t any detail. On the last agenda, we caught applications for window. “I found out from a Poolesville reporter (Susan Petro of The North Potomac
towers that weren’t even in Montgomery County. “What is the council going to do Times) who put a note on my door when I was on vacation.” Petro had found the ad-
to enforce the law that exists with regards to the powers of the tower committee?” dresses on the Montgomery County website showing proposed locations and forwarded
the information to North Potomac community activist, Aaron Rosenweig, who, in turn,
Herrera from ultraMontgomery responded, “They are public meetings, run by put notices on the doors of twenty-seven homes that were included in the proposal.
Marjorie. Some members do attend by teleconference, the agenda is posted in advance.”
According to Montgomery County’s ultraMontgomery website, “ultraMontgomery is “I sent to the planning board of Montgomery County peer-reviewed research that
a technology-based, multi-year, economic development initiative. Its objective is to shows mounting evidence of health-related concerns of significantly higher incidenc-
grow knowledge-based jobs by making gigabit broadband more affordable and widely es of type 2 diabetes, sleep disturbances, headaches, dizziness, irritability (seems to
available to public, private, education, and government institutions in major corridors, be going around), concentration difficulties, and hypertension,” said the German-
and transit-oriented smart growth communities within the county.” town resident. “We are here because we have many concerns: health, and the essence
of our neighborhoods where we chose to live because the utilities are underground.”
Although many attendees made it clear they were not against expanding or The resident was not only concerned about the proposed tower outside his home.
implementing the latest technologies, they question why these towers are necessary He also discovered that at least three schools, including his grandson’s, have plans
in bucolic neighborhoods rather than less-obtrusive locations. Although the subject for new towers. If the county goes through with the installations, as proposed, the
of health concerns has been repeatedly downplayed by the FCC and the companies resident said his grandson will have no way to escape these things in his life.”

By withdrawing the amendment altogether, members of the community are still left
exposed to having undesirable monopoles installed in their front yards. “We are in the
process of working with the county council to devise a better solution and stronger
ordinances,” said Spivak, “albiet, ordinances that offer some protections while at the
same time do not block the telecom industry’s right to deploy a telecom network.”

Additionally, representatives from the community have met with the councilmembers

and are proposing that an outside consultant be brought on board to assist.w

December 2016 17 www.northpotomactimes.com



NORTH POTOMAC TIMES • NONPROFIT NOTEBOOK

Gaithersburg HELP: HELP is part of the United Way (#8432) and Combined Federal Campaign (#30374)
Banding Together for the Community where employees can make donations in their workplace. Selecting Amazonsmile.
com when making purchases and designating Gaithersburg HELP, and donating online
By Sharon Allen Gilder via JustGive.org are other donation options. HELP’s website states, “For every dollar
donated, ninety-eight cents go directly toward community services and supplies.”
Gaithersburg HELP, a local 501(c)(3) all-volunteer nonprofit, came to be “as part
of a larger ‘fish’ and ‘help’ movement that began in the UK and hopped the pond inPhotos credit: Submitted. Gaithersburg HELP executive director, Gaithersburg HELP’s Paul Jones,
the 1960s” explained HELP’s executive director Linda Hanson. She said the organi- Photos credit: Submitted. Linda Hanson (in middle of photo), leader of the nonprofit’s Transportation
zation, established in 1968, comes from a long tradition of faith communities band- with two volunteers filling bags
ing together to support the needy in their communities with the premise that, “by for clients from pantry shelves. Program, preparing to assist a
combining forces, the community could be served more effectively.” client to an appointment.

Hanson has lived in Gaithersburg since 1986. She began volunteering with HELP Non-perishable food items currently needed include: canned fruits; cereal; instant
eight years ago, became assistant executive director in 2011, and the following year potatoes; boxed or bagged rice mixes; dry pasta; spaghetti sauce with meat; canned
was elected executive director. She said HELP’s forty-eight-year history has a foun- tuna; peanut butter; kidney beans; black beans; and canned tomato products. To
dation of several churches in the Gaithersburg area coordinating efforts for “a phone donate food supplies, email [email protected] or leave a message on
answering machine that community members could call if they were in need of as- HELP’s phone mail system at 301.216.2510.
sistance. Congregation volunteers took turns answering calls and providing food,”
which was stored in individual church storage closets and eventually moved to larger “Montgomery County has a huge variety of incomes and a very high standard of liv-
spaces. HELP operates a non-perishable food pantry by appointment only at 301 ing. Many families that live on minimum wage jobs, especially families with a single
Muddy Branch Road in the Festival Shopping Center. parent, aren’t close to earning a living wage. Even holding down multiple jobs does
not provide adequate support for rent, utilities, food, and clothing. Gaithersburg and
Armed with its motto, “Neighbor helping neighbor,” HELP’s specific service area Montgomery Village have a large portion of county residents in need,” Hanson said.
is greater Gaithersburg and Montgomery Village. Hanson explained that the county Clients are asked about additional services and resources supporting their needs. She
was “divided into territories years ago by a group from Interfaith Works in order to added, “We understand that a family can face a temporary emergency due to a sudden
provide coverage of the whole county, but to keep each HELP organization local.” job loss, medical emergencies, or accidents. Although they may be able to pay bills,
Hanson said that HELP’s pantry serves “fifteen to thirty-plus families on any given just barely, a disruption can become a crisis. HELP does not want to rule out this kind
evening, Monday through Friday.” of support as well as ongoing support to those unable to make ends meet.”

Today, seventeen churches and one synagogue comprise HELP’s member partners As part of a network of support organizations in Montgomery County which
who provide a combination of in-kind support with food, infant supplies, volunteer collaborate to address needs, HELP utilizes referral lists to connect clients with a
workers, and financial support. More congregations are encouraged to join HELP’s variety of available resources. Hanson said most individuals and families that are in
network of community supporters. “There is no threshold for membership because need “have multiple issues to confront and solve such as education, career opportu-
of the variety of faith congregations in the area…we have additional congregations nity needs, mental health, and physical limitations. Financial education and budget
that support the work of HELP although they have not chosen to become member help is also a need that can help some of our clients. Another huge need in this county
congregations.” is more affordable housing. Working together on all of these fronts can make a sig-
nificant difference in the economic condition of our residents.”
Approximately two hundred volunteers are trained and sign up for specific tasks
within the charity. Hanson noted that “a dedicated group of a dozen individuals” pro- HELP is part of the Community Food Rescue network, works with Village Rides
vide program leadership. HELP provides four programs of service to the community: for transportation assistance, and provides financial assistance to UMAN (Upper
food assistance; infant needs; help with the cost of medical prescriptions on a short- Montgomery County Assistance Network) that addresses utility cut-offs and home or
term basis while long-term help is located; and transportation to and from medical apartment evictions. Hanson shared, “Working together is what will make the differ-
and/or social service appointments for those with no other means. This service is ence in our county. I would also say we need to value all of our residents regardless
primarily for seniors and the disabled. of background and welcome our immigrant population that is eager to contribute.“I
have always received personal satisfaction from active participation in community
Hanson explained, “Volunteers are the backbone of our organization…tasks range organizations and HELP is a great one. At the end of the day, making a difference for
from taking phone calls from potential clients and scheduling them for services to others provides me a sense of fulfillment,” Hanson said.
working at the pantry to bag and distribute groceries and infant needs for our Mon-
day through Friday pantry hours to scheduling rides and driving clients needing wFor more information visit: www.gaithersburghelp.org.
transportation help, to picking up and delivering food/infant supplies to our pantry.
We wouldn’t be without volunteers!” Call center representatives work remotely from
home one to five days per month, processing client requests.

Gaithersburg HELP logo with pantry food. Gaithersburg HELP’s pantry. Violin Lessons

HELP’s primary fundraising events include charity concerts conducted by the Boyds, MD
National Christian Choir and dine-arounds at area restaurants where a portion of Over 15 Years’ Experience
the day’s receipts support HELP’s work. Additional funding resources include city, Sassmannshaus Method Certification
county, and Maryland State funding as well as monies from member congregations
and individual donors, corporations, and foundations. On Labor Day, three faith [email protected]• 301-407-0001
groups joined forces and held the First Annual Montgomery County Interfaith 5K at
the Maryland SoccerPlex in Germantown where HELP was the primary beneficiary
of the proceeds. All donations are welcome and make a difference: a gift of $15 buys
a bag of groceries for a family in need; $20 supplies diapers and formula for an in-
fant; $50 provides three to five days of food for a family of four; and $100 assists a
client with one month of prescription funding.

December 2016 19 www.northpotomactimes.com