Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
Potomac Almanac ❖ December 18-24, 2013 ❖ 1www.ConnectionNewspapers.com online at potomacalmanac.com
Classified, Page 10
❖
C
alendar, Page 6
❖
Spo
rts 9
December 18-24, 2013
Pho
to
C
ontributed
PotomacPotomac
World-wideDistributionWorld-wideDistribution
Page 11
For the sixth consecutive year, Fourth School students partici-pated in Samaritan’s Purse’s Operation Christmas Child. Theyfilled shoeboxes with toys, school supplies, candy, and hygieneitems and then brought them to school. The boxes are sent to
Samaritan’s Purse who will deliver them to underprivilegedchildren around the world. Above, National Junior Honor Soci-
ety members (from left) Laura Wormald, Ainsley Benton andMia Blossom Baker help load shoeboxes into a teacher’s truck
to be delivered to Samaritan’s Purse.
For the sixth consecutive year, Fourth School students partici-pated in Samaritan’s Purse’s Operation Christmas Child. Theyfilled shoeboxes with toys, school supplies, candy, and hygieneitems and then brought them to school. The boxes are sent to
Samaritan’s Purse who will deliver them to underprivilegedchildren around the world. Above, National Junior Honor Soci-
ety members (from left) Laura Wormald, Ainsley Benton andMia Blossom Baker help load shoeboxes into a teacher’s truck
to be delivered to Samaritan’s Purse.
Wootton GradTo PerformAt National TheatreNews, Page 3
Civil Rights IconAddresses StudentsNews, Page 3
Tablescapes:Bringing the Outdoors InHolidays, Page 5
Wootton GradTo PerformAt National TheatreNews, Page 3
Civil Rights IconAddresses StudentsNews, Page 3
Tablescapes:Bringing the Outdoors InHolidays, Page 5
2 ❖ Potomac Almanac ❖ December 18-24, 2013 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
Holiday House is Open
Potomac Almanac ❖ December 18-24, 2013 ❖ 3www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
NewsPotomac Almanac Editor Steven Mauren
703-778-9415 or [email protected]
See www.potomacalmanac.com
By Susan Belford
The Almanac
Christmas at home is especiallymeaningful this year to 1994Thomas Wootton High Schoolgrad Cicily Daniels. After many
years of performing on Broadway andaround the country, she is thrilled to bespending Christmas morning with her fam-ily in Potomac, Christmas afternoon enjoy-ing a family dinner at her aunt’s home andChristmas evening in the national tour pro-duction of “Porgy andBess” at WashingtonD.C.’s National Theatre.
“The last time I per-formed in WashingtonD.C. was when I was inthe national tour of“Rent,” Daniels said.“There is nothing likeperforming in yourhometown before thepeople who knew megrowing up. It’s both ex-citing and rewarding!”She will be part of the ensemble as well asthe understudy for Mariah. “I sing some ofthe featured solos in the “Oh Dr. Jesus” re-prise, so my friends and family will be ableto recognize my voice.”
Daniels became interested in singing andacting as a child in elementary school andat Brookland Union Baptist Church. In high
school, she performed with the TravelingYoung Players in two productions at theKennedy Center and acted in many plays atThomas Wootton High School.
After graduation, she was one of 28 stu-dents accepted into the Yale Performing Artsprogram. “After Yale, I did summer theaterin Lincoln, N.H., while I worked my day-job at Goldman Sachs,” she said. “I keptauditioning and was chosen for the nationaltour of ‘Rent.’ That was a wonderful mo-ment in my professional career.”
She returned to Potomac in 2011 to behonored with the Thomas Wootton HighSchool Patron’s Distinguished AlumniAchievement Award and also to recognizeStanley Brodsky, the school’s renowned the-ater director and 20-year veteran teacherfor the lasting legacy of excellence in the
performing arts that heinstilled in the studentsduring his years as ateaching director. Shealso returned last Octo-ber to be married tomusic copyist BrettMacias at the BolgerCenter in Potomac.
Some of her Broad-way credits include“Disney’s The LittleMermaid” (originalcast), “All Shook Up,”
“Rent” (national tour), “Caroline orChange,” “Little Shop of Horrors,” and “Intothe Woods.” She has also appeared in nu-merous television shows: “Ugly Betty,” “OneLife to Live,” “Boardwalk Empire,” “Ameri-can Gangster,” and “Saturday Night Live.”When she is not on stage or TV, Danielsmakes commercials and records voice-overs
for companies such asCinnamon Toast Crunch,Cover Girl, Time WarnerCable, EA Sports Activeand Softsheen. She servesas a celebrity spokesper-son for Nielson TV andmost recently performedthe role of Martha Ledouxin the first developmentalreading of “Gumbo theMusical.”
However, her first loveis acting in live theater. “Ilove the interaction withthe live audience,” shesaid. “I gain so much en-ergy from them. Whenyou are on stage, you con-nect with them and feeltheir responses and emo-tions which bring out the best in your per-formance.”
“Porgy and Bess” premiered on Broadwayin1935 with a full cast of African-Americansingers, a courageous artistic decision at thetime. George Gershwin, who conceived theplay as an “American Folk Opera” wrote themusic and his brother Ira, along withDuBose Heyward wrote the lyrics. The playis based on the Heyward’s novel, “Porgy”which tells the story of Porgy, a disabledblack beggar living in “Catfish Row” — theslums of Charleston, S.C. in the early 1920s.It deals with his attempts to rescue Bessfrom the clutches of Crown, her violent andpossessive lover, and from Sportin’ Life, thedrug dealer. “Summertime,” “It Ain’t Nec-essarily So,” “Bess, You Is My Woman Now,”“I Loves You, Porgy” and “I Got Plenty o’Nuttin’” are just a few of the songs that have
endeared “Porgy andBess” to audiences.
Washington D.C.’s Na-tional Theatre shares asignificant milestonewith “Porgy and Bess”and in theater history.The first tour ended herein March 1936 with theproduction performedbefore the first integratedaudience. Todd Duncan,the original Porgy and aHoward University musicprofessor, along with theoriginal Bess, Baltimorenative Anne Brown, ledthe cast in a strike untiltheater managementagreed to fully integratethe audience.
Management had offered to “integrate”by permitting an African-American audi-ence every other night, or by seating thewhite audience and the black audience onseparate floors of the theater. The perform-ers would not agree, and finally, in an his-toric decision, the management set aside itssegregation policy.
“Porgy and Bess” is the winner of the 2012Tony Award for Best Musical Revival. The playfeatures new staging and a 23-piece orches-tra. This production will hold its Washing-ton premiere from Dec. 25 – 29 and then con-tinue on its national tour through July 2014.Tickets are available at the National TheatreBox Office, online at www.thenationaldc.comor by calling 800-514-3489. Group orders of10 or more may be placed by calling 855-386-2516. For more, call 202-628-6161.
Wootton Grad To Perform at National TheatreCicily Daniels returnsto area for“Porgy and Bess.”
“There is nothing likeperforming in yourhometown before thepeople who knew megrowing up.”
— Cicily Daniels
The Civil Rights Movement camealive as U.S. Rep. John R. Lewis(D-Ga.) addressed students in
Grades 6, 7, and 8 at Washington Epis-copal School on Dec. 13.
He discussed his life experiences as aCivil Rights leader, referencing his book“March: Book One” which he co -wrotewith Andrew Aydin. Each student at thepresentation read the book and discussedit in small groups prior to his visit, andprepared questions that they asked thecongressman after he and Aydin spoketo the group.
“Our students were able to experiencefirst-hand from Congressman Lewis what
it was like to be a freedom fighter,” saidGrade 6 teacher Deighton Allyene. “He isthe sole surviving speaker from the Marchon Washington and he shared his experi-ences with us — we are so fortunate to hosthim at our school.”
Lewis told the audience of 135 about hischildhood in rural Alabama, raising chick-ens as a sharecropper’s son; about writinga letter to Martin Luther King, Jr., and sub-sequently meeting and working alongsidehim; about life in the segregated south;about his leadership in the Civil RightsMovement; and his involvement on theMarch on Washington 50 years ago in Au-gust 1963. “His contribution to Civil Rightsis remarkable,” said Grade 8 studentSamantha Liggins. “We all were thrilled tomeet him and hear him speak after readinghis book. He was so nice to answer our ques-tions and sign our books.”
Aydin also spoke to the group, sharingthe story of how his suggestion to Lewis towrite a comic book about his experiences
Civil Rights Icon Addresses Students at Washington EpiscopalLewis shares hiseyewitness accountof Civil RightsMovement.
Pho
to
by A
li Bratun
Cicily Daniels
U.S. Rep.John Lewis(D-Ga.), anicon in the
Civil RightsMovement,with Wash-
ington Epis-copal School
students inGrade 8 after
addressingthem and
answeringtheir ques-
tions.
in the Civil Rights Movement became a re-ality and their graphic novel was born. Thisevent is part of the school’s author seriesduring its annual Book Fair.
Lewis was elected to serve the Fifth Con-gressional District of Georgia in 1986. For
more information, visit http://johnlewis.house.gov/.
Washington Episcopal School is an in-dependent, coeducational day school inBethesda. For more information, visitwww.w-e-s.org.
4 ❖ Potomac Almanac ❖ December 18-24, 2013 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
Opinion
POTOMACALMANAC
www.PotomacAlmanac.com
Newspaper of PotomacA Connection Newspaper
An independent, locally owned weeklynewspaper delivered
to homes and businesses.
1606 King StreetAlexandria, Virginia 22314
Free digital edition delivered toyour email box. Go to
connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe
PUBLISHERMary Kimm
@MaryKimm
EDITORIALPHONE: 703-821-5050
E-MAIL:[email protected]
EDITORSteven Mauren, 703-778-9415
SPORTS EDITORJon Roetman,703-224-3015
[email protected]@jonroetman
CONTRIBUTING WRITERSSusan Belford, Carole Dell,
Cissy Finley Grant, Carole Funger,Colleen Healy, Kenny Lourie,
Ken Moore
ContributingPhotographers
Harvey Levine, Deborah Stevens
Art/Design:Laurence Foong, John Heinly
Production ManagerGeovani Flores
Special Assistant tothe Publisher
Jeanne Theismann703-778-9436
[email protected]@TheismannMedia
ADVERTISINGFor advertising information
e-mail:[email protected]
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVESDisplay Advertising:
Kenny Lourie [email protected]
Andrea Smith 703-778-9411Classified Advertising
Debbie FunkNational Sales & real Estate
Jerry VernonExecutive Vice President
Potomac Almanac is publishedby Local Media Connection LLC
Five Time First PlaceAward-WinnerPublic Service
MDDC Press Association
Four TimeNewspaper of the Year
An Award-winning Newspaperin Writing, Photography, Editing,
Graphics and Design
To the Editor:The following letter was addressed to Montgomery
County parents.Since becoming superintendent of Montgom-
ery County Public Schools, I have spoken atlength about the importance of social emo-tional learning — essentially, giving our stu-dents the skills they need to navigate their livesin a healthy, positive way. And that is why Iam writing to you today.
This week, the wintry weather required usto go through our normal processes to deter-mine whether we should delay or cancelschool. It’s not an easy decision and involvesstaff working at all hours to monitor road con-ditions and weather forecasts. As we were inthe process of evaluating the situation, studentsstarted contacting me on Twitter. Some of these“tweets” were clever, funny, and respectful,pleading for me to cancel school so they couldsleep in or have more time to do their home-work. Many of these tweets, however, wereoffensive and disturbing. Some were threat-ening to me and others. A few referenced myfamily. There was rampant use of racial epi-thets and curse words.
This activity on social media caused me toreflect on my responsibilities as a parent ofthree children and the superintendent for151,000 children, and what our role is in en-suring that our children are using technologyappropriately. This is especially important aswe increase the use of technology in ourschools, including full wireless access andbring-your-own-device possibilities for our stu-dents.
As superintendent, I have the legal respon-sibility of in loco parentis, meaning that I and
other educators are supposed to serve as “par-ents” in the school building. Some of the tweetsI received were so disturbing that my staff re-ported them to the school principal and oursecurity team. This may seem like an overre-action to some, but it is our legal responsibil-ity to do so, and we take it very seriously.
But this is more than just a challenge at theoffice. My wife and I find ourselves in a dailyconversation with our children about the ap-propriate use of technology. How long can theyuse a device? How often during a day? Whatare they allowed, and not allowed, to take pic-tures of? They don’t have internet access yet,but I am already imagining what it will be likewhen they do. How will my wife and I ensurethat they are being safe online, while allow-ing them to access the many positive aspectsof the online world and social media? Howwill we ensure we have the right controls andoversight so they are doing so in an appropri-ate way?
I don’t have all the answers in my home orin our schools. But I know it takes deliberateand tough conversations within families andcommunities to help kids understand how touse technology and social media appropriately.
I’m sure that most of the students who postedinappropriate comments to me on Twitter weredoing so without thinking. In fact, we knowthat the adolescent brain isn’t equipped tothink long term and doesn’t calculate risk/re-ward ratios in the same way that adults do. I’dlike to think that they wouldn’t post such thingsif they understood the consequences of theiractions or if they knew that I’m legally respon-sible for reporting threats to the police and totheir parents. I’d like to think they wouldn’tpost such things, especially if they understoodthat these posts are permanent and can followthem and impact college acceptances, job op-portunities, and future relationships.
I’m writing this letter to start a conversationabout how we can support our children in us-ing technology in a way that is healthy, pro-ductive, and positive. Cyberbullying is a realissue among children and adults. We not onlyhave to teach our kids how to handle new tech-nologies appropriately, but we also have tomodel that behavior in our own communica-tions on social media and email. We need totalk about “cybercivility:” how we can help ourchildren grow into responsible and caringadults who interact with one another in a civil,respectful way. I have asked my staff to developsome materials and methods to help schoolsand families navigate these conversations, solook for more information about this in the nearfuture.
In the meantime, I urge you to talk to yourchildren on an ongoing basis about what’s ap-propriate and not appropriate to do online.Also, remember, if your child is under 13, donot allow them to use social media — theyaren’t ready for it and it is a violation of theuser agreements or guidelines for nearly allmajor social media sites.
If your child is 13 or older, please considerwhether they are ready to use social media.Set limits and talk to them about the appropri-ate use of social media and mobile technology.And make sure you are monitoring what theypost online.
Our website has some resources that you canuse to talk to your children now and we willbe adding more resources in the near future. Ifyou have any thoughts or ideas to help furtherthis cybercivility dialogue, please do not hesi-tate to email me at [email protected] contact me on Twitter at @mcpssuper.
Joshua StarrSuperintendent
Montgomergy County Pubic Schools
An Open Letter from the SuperintendentLet’s talk about“cybercivility.”
SnapshotsSnow from last week’s stormclung to trees and coveredthe ground in Potomac.
Pho
to
s by Em
ma K
im
m D
ixo
n
Potomac Almanac ❖ December 18-24, 2013 ❖ 5www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
LET’S TALKReal Estate
For professional advice on all aspectsof buying and selling real estate, call:
MICHAEL MATESELong & Foster Realtors
by Michael Matese
How WiredAre You?
It wasn’t that long ago that regard-less of a home’s size, there were onlytwo standard wiring systems requiredto run a household: telephone andelectricity. The modern age has ush-ered in the concept of a technology-based home, one where multiplehome computers, surround soundtelevisions, stereo equipment, homesecurity systems and automated con-veniences have relegated two-wiringsystems to relics of the past. The 21stcentury lifestyle dictates a multitudeof wiring, wiring types and multi-pur-pose technological home functionality.Modern homes, in order to stay mar-ket competitive, need to offer a widerange of efficiency and maximize alllivable spaces for technological usagethrough their wiring. Advanced wir-ing schematics allow homeowners tocustomize their use of technologywhile meeting individual needs.Options in advanced wiring rangefrom Category 5 wiring and coaxialcable to fiber-optic cable. However, ifchoosing fiber-optic for your home, itis best to leave the installation in thehands of a licensed contractor orother certified professional, as thisoption is expensive and complex andleaves little room for error. If youchoose to build your own home, thereis an equally diverse range of optionsopen in home automation systemsand home security systems availableto meet the simplest of needs or themost complex. With today’s innova-tions, you can wire your entire houseto run everything from one simplelocation. Building convenience andefficiency into your home at theground level adds a degree of comfortand luxury to your home while you’reliving in it, and dollars onto your ask-ing price when it comes to futureresale value.
Are you tiredof dieting and
regaining weight?I’m Coach Mindy, and I understand.After years of dieting and regaining,I finally found my last diet. You can, too!
Physician supervised. Individualized,friendly, and fun coaching.
301-652-6760www.facebook.com/mycoachmindy
Office of James H. Brodsky, M.D.Lifestyle and Wellness Medicine
4701 Willard Ave., Ste. 224, Chevy Chase, MD 20815
Holidays
By Carole Funger
The Almanac
There is nothing more central to holi-day celebrations than joining togetheraround the dinner table. This year,
when deciding how to decorate that table, con-sider thinking outside the proverbial box andcreating a table scape that takes its inspirationfrom the outdoors.
Innovative, organic décor, gathered fromyour neighborhood nursery and your ownbackyard, can significantly enhance your holi-day table while providing your home with liveplants for weeks to come. One glance out thewindow affirms that the seemingly barren win-ter landscape is actually rife with colorful ber-ries, artistic bare branches and frothy ever-greens. Pair these elements with live plants ofthe season and you have the perfect mix ofsimplicity and elegance, stirring the awarenessthat even in the dead of winter nature offersus sources of beauty.
An excellent example of this is the holidaytable created last year for the Longwood Gar-dens Indoor Christmas display. The spectacu-lar holiday table, set for 64, is resplendent withfresh-potted plants, painted white willowbranches and unbelievably, a table runnermade out of lush green moss. Oversized whitefluted vases, fringed with dark green foliageand the stark white blooms of live orchidshouse towering white willow branches. On thetable, potted white orchids and brilliant redcyclamen stand out in stark relief from the bril-liant red cloth. Cool and lush, the pungentmoss garland extends the entire length of thetable and cascades off the edges. Mirroredglass, white plates and brilliant silver accesso-ries complete the picture.
What makes this table so special? First, theunusual focus on live greenery, in pots. Whileit is not uncommon for holiday tables to beembellished with seasonal cut flowers, or theubiquitous evergreen, Longwood’s table aston-ishes by bringing the vigor of the summergrowing season to the sparse winter table. Thecasual observer need only experience the smellof the earth rising up from the pots while ap-preciating the vibrant hues of the living bloomsto recognize the perfect metaphor for the cel-ebration of all that is life during the holidayseason.
Stylistically, Longwood’s table also demon-strates a simple control of color, the bright redcloth offsetting the white petals of the plants,while the green moss garland completes theChristmas picture. The dramatic verticals ofthe willow branches are softened at the baseof the vases by the ‘wreathes’ of orchid pots,while the drooping edges of the moss garlandand the napkins fall like ribbons from the cloth.
How can this be duplicated? While few ofus have tables large enough to seat 64, thedisplay provides ample food for thought. Themost significant change you could make toyour own décor this year would be to adoptLongwood’s use of potted plants in lieu of cutflowers. This makes sense from a design stand-point as well as the notion that the entire décorcan be reused and enjoyed for weeks follow-ing the holidays. Other than poinsettias andorchids, local nurseries are chock full of jewel-toned cyclamen, begonias, paper whites andamaryllis plants this time of year. Group plantsthat you like around vases filled with barebranches, keeping the color palette simple,focusing more on bloom quality than quan-tity. Picture a garden and install it on yourtable.
Shop your backyard. Many native hollies,such as the brilliant red American winterberrymake great filler for vases, while white andsilver birch trees, bamboo and curly willow aregreat sources of decorative branches. Ask your-self what memories you carry from your child-hood, what colors and shapes are importantto you, and incorporate them in your tabledécor. For the truly adventurous, consider us-ing a narrow band of live sod for your tablerunner, making sure to provide a plastic un-dercoating to protect your table.
For more information on this table, as wellas the Longwood Gardens Christmas Display,go to http://longwoodgardens.org.
Table Scapes: Bringing the Outdoors In
A table scape from LongwoodGardens.
Email announcements to [email protected]. Deadline is Thursday at noon.
HOLIDAY NEEDSNow through the end of the year,The Jewish Social
Service Agency and community partners arecollecting monetary donations and gift cards for itsnonsectarian “Give-a-Gift” program. This programenables recipients in need to select unique gifts forloved ones, holiday foods, warm winter clothing,prescriptions, toys for the children, or special itemsthat will make their holiday brighter and lives more
comfortable throughout the year. The programsupports newborns to 103-year-old adults includingfrail Holocaust survivors. Call 301-610-8342 or visitwww.jssa.org for more.
WEDNESDAY/DEC. 18Documentary Screening. 7 p.m. in the Fenton
Room of the Silver Spring Civic Center, 1 VeteransPlaza, Silver Spring. Free screening of “Driven toDefraud,” a new documentary by the MontgomeryCounty Office of Consumer Protection on auto salesfraud in the county.
THURSDAY/DEC. 19Potluck Dinner. 6:30-8:45 p.m. Potomac Community
Village, a nonprofit organization dedicated tohelping Potomac Seniors age in place, is hosting aPotluck Dinner and Program at Potomac CommunityCenter, 11315 Falls Road. Patricia Collins willpresent tips on diet, nutrition and well-being.Register at wwwpotomaccommunityvillage.org or240-22-1370. Guests are asked to bring 8-10servings of an item according to the first letter oftheir last name. A-E: appetizers; F-K: salads/sidedishes; L-R: main dishes; S-Z: desserts.
Bulletin Board
GavinElliottBruce
Jason and AmyBruce announce thebirth of their sonGavin Elliott Bruce. Hewas born on Oct. 29,2013 in Atlanta, Ga.He was 7 pounds, 11ounces. He has anolder sister Alexis. Heis the grandson of Sherry Sundick, and Gary and Marsha Sundick ofPotomac.
Birth
6 ❖ Potomac Almanac ❖ December 18-24, 2013 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
Entertainment
Email community entertainment events [email protected]. Deadline isThursday at noon. Photos and artwork encouraged.
ONGOINGArt Exhibition. Classes are taught year-round for
beginner, intermediate and advanced students.Fridays 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturdays 10 a.m.-4p.m., and Sundays noon-4 p.m. At Glen EchoPark, 7300 MacArthur Blvd. Call 301-634-2273or visit www.artglasscenteratglenecho.org.
Glassworks. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.Glassworks is the area’s first glass school.Classes are taught year-round for both new andadvanced students. At Glen Echo Park, 7300MacArthur Blvd. Call 301-634-2280 or visitwww.innervisionglassworks.com.
Photoworks. A resource for both student andprofessional photographers to develop theirtalents through classes, workshops, andexhibitions. Open Saturdays 1-4 p.m., Sundays1-8 p.m., and during all scheduled classes andworkshops. At Glen Echo Park, 7300 MacArthurBlvd. Call 301-634-2274 or visitwww.glenechophotoworks.org.
Christmas Tree Sale, Cabin John Park VolunteerFire Department, Station 10, 8001 River Road.Call 301-365-2255 or visit www.cjpvfd.org.
Art Exhibit. See paintings depicting the C&OCanal and other Maryland scenes by NancyHeindl at 8512 Victory Lane. Runs from Dec. 8-22. Free. Visit www.nancyheindl.com or 301-299-6176 for an appointment.
Friends of the Yellow Barn, 18th annualmembers show. Dec. 1 through Dec. 23. Visitwww.glenechopark.org orwww.yellowbarnstudio.com. Call 301-634-2222.
Theater Performance. See “The Nutcracker” inthe Puppet Co. Playhouse at Glen Echo Park,7300 MacArthur Blvd. Performances areThursdays and Fridays at 10 a.m. or 11:30 a.m.;Saturdays and Sundays at 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.Runs Nov. 29 through Dec. 29. $10. There willbe special ticket pricing on Dec. 7, 8. For thosetwo nights, tickets will be $3. Visitwww.thepuppetco.org or 301-634-5380.
Theater Performance. See “The Twelve Days of
Christmas” at Adventure Theatre at Glen EchoPark, 7300 MacArthur Blvd. Shirley thePartridge has got some problems to solve. TheFrench Hens are arguing, the six geese haveflown to Florida for the winter and worst of all,someone has stolen the five golden rings. Theperformance runs Nov. 15-Dec. 30. Tickets canbe purchased at www.adventuretheatr-mtc.og or301-634-2270.
18th Annual Winter Lights Festival, a 3.5-mile drive through a holiday light show atSeneca Creek Park with more than 360illuminated displays. Runs nightly Nov. 29through Dec. 31 with additional eventsincluding walks and runs under the lights.Proceeds benefit local charities. Call 301-258-6350 or visit www.gaithersburgmd.gov.
Holiday Art Show and Sale. The Glen EchoPark Partnership for Arts and Culture is hostingexhibitors that will sell glass, ceramics,photography, crafts and more. The sale runsNov. 29-Jan. 5. Hours are Saturdays andSundays from 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Thursdays andFridays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. through Dec. 20.Located in the Popcorn Gallery at Glen EchoPark, 7300 MacArthur Blvd. Visitwww.glenechopark.org or 301-634-2222.
Theater Performance. Through Friday, Jan. 10,see “Lyle the Crocodile” at Imagination Stage,4908 Auburn Ave., Bethesda. ShowtimesSaturdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m.and are appropriate for children age 4-12. ASLinterpreted performance on Dec. 8 at 4 p.m.,and a sensory-friendly performance on Dec. 15at 11 a.m. Tickets start at $12, visitwww.imaginationstage.org or 301-280-1660.
Theater Performance. See “Aquarium” atImagination Stage, 4908 Auburn Ave., Bethesda.Runs Dec. 17-Jan. 26. Performances areTuesdays-Fridays at 10:30 a.m. and 11:45 a.m.,and Saturdays-Sundays at 10 a.m. and 11:15a.m. Children can watch the story of Jack andCalypso unfold through puppets, music andprops. Appropriate for children ages 1-5. Ticketsare $10-12 with a $5 lap seat for children under12 months. Tickets can be purchased atwww.imaginationstage.org, at the box offce or301-280-1660.
Potomac Almanac ❖ December 18-24, 2013 ❖ 7www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
1079 Seven Locks RoadPotomac, Maryland 20854
Potomac Woods Plaza
301.838.9696
Season Greetings
ROBERT BERNARDJEWELERS
from
Your Neighborhood Jewlers
Potomac Village Deli Catering
Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner Catering
301•299•5770www.potomacvillagedeli.com
Home of YourCorporate & ResidentialCatering Headquarters
Serving theCommunity
for over35 Years
Theater Performance. Watch “TheNutcracker” at Robert E. ParillaPerforming Arts Center, 51Mannakee St., Rockville. TheMaryland Youth Ballet will performon Dec. 21, 22, 26, 28 at 1 p.m. and5 p.m.; and Dec. 23, 27 at 1 p.m.Tickets are $28/adult in advance;$23/child, student or senior inadvance; $33/door, $28/door. Visitwww.montgomerycollege.edu/PACor 240-567-5301 for tickets.
Art Exhibit. See a solo exhibit byGrace Taylor titled “Retrospective”through Jan. 6 at Photoworks Galleryat Glen Echo Park, 7300 MacArthurBlvd. The solo exhibition is acomprehensive look at more than 30years of Taylor’s photography. Hoursare Saturdays from 1-4 p.m., Sundaysfrom 1-8 p.m. or by appointment orduring class time. Free. Visitwww.glenechopark.org for more.
Drop in Art Activities. EverySaturday from 9:30 a.m.-noon in theCandy Corner Studio at Glen EchoPark, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., parentsand children can explore a new artform or theme. $10/child, parentcombo. Drop-in only. Visitwww.pgip.org for more.
CLASSESWinter Craft Days. On Dec. 23, 27,
30, 31 from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.,children in grades 1-6 can enjoy aday of art activities at VisArts, 155Gibbs St., ice skating, private diningand more. Visitwww.visartscenter.org or call 301-315-8200 to register for one a day.
THURSDAY/DEC. 19Potomac Cuddleups. 10:30 a.m. at
Potomac Library, 10101 GlenoldenDrive. For children up to 11 monthswith caregiver. Free. Visitwww.montgomerycountymd.gov/content/libraries or 240-777-0690.
Blues Dance. 8:15 p.m. lessons start,dancing from 9-11:30 p.m. in theBallroom Annex, 7300 MacArthurBlvd., Glen Echo. $8. Capital Bluespresents the dances. Visitwww.capitalblues.org for more.
FRIDAY/DEC. 20Contra Dance. 7:30 p.m. lessons start;
8:30 -11:30 p.m. dancing at SpanishBallroom at Glen Echo, 7300MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo.Morrison Brothers provide music.$10/adult; $5/17 and under. Visitwww.fridaynightdance.org for more.
Balboa DJ Dance. 8:30-11:30 p.m. inthe Ballroom Annex at Glen EchoPark, 7300 MacArthur Blvd. Lessonsfrom 8:30-9 p.m., dancing starts at 9p.m. $10. Visit glenechopark.org.
SATURDAY/DEC. 21Medieval Music. 5 p.m. at The
Episcopal Church of the Redeemer,6201 Dunrobbin Dr., Bethesda.Women’s vocal ensemble Eya:Ensemble for Medieval Musicpresents holiday concert “Natus estRex” by candlelight. $20 generaladmission and $10 students/seniors,at www.eyaensemble.com or at thedoor.
Swing Dance. 8 p.m.-midnight in theSpanish Ballroom at Glen Echo, 7300MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo. Livemusic by the Craig Gildner Big Band.Enjoy the “Red and White Ball,” bywearing fancy clothes, red and whiterecommended. Lessons from 8-9p.m., included in admission. $20.Visit www.glenechopark.org.
SUNDAY/DEC. 22Sugar Plum Party. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at
Maryland Youth Ballet Studios, 926Ellsworth Drive Silver Spring. ThisNutcracker celebration will includedancing, games, crafts, snacks, and avisit from a few Nutcracker
characters. For boys and girls, ages 5-8 years, no dance experiencerequired. Parents do not need to stay.$25/guest; sibling discount of $20/child. To register, all the MYB officeby December 11, 301-608-2232.
Holiday Open House. 1-4 p.m. atGlenview Mansion, 603 EdmonstonDrive, Rockville. Enjoy freeentertainment and activities at themansion. Visit www.rockvillemd.gov/glenview or 240-314-8660.
Contra Dance. 7 p.m. lessons start;7:30 -10:30 p.m. dancing at SpanishBallroom at Glen Echo, 7300MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo.Morrison Brothers Band providesmusic. $13/nonmember; $10/member; $5/age 17 and under. Visitwww.glenechopark.org for more.
Swing Dance. 8 p.m.-midnight in theSpanish Ballroom at Glen Echo, 7300MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo. Livemusic by the Craig Gildner Big Band.Lessons from 8-9 p.m., included inadmission. $16. Visitwww.glenechopark.org for more.
TUESDAY/DEC. 24Festal Eucharist of the Nativity. 10
p.m. at The Episcopal Church of theRedeemer, 6201 Dunrobbin Drive,Bethesda. An extended, candle-litprelude of organ voluntaries, choralanthems and carols. Free. Visitwww.redeemerbethesda.org or 301-229-3770.
THURSDAY/DEC. 26Blues Dance. 8:15 p.m. lessons start,
dancing from 9-11:30 p.m. in theBallroom Annex, 7300 MacArthurBlvd., Glen Echo. $8. Capital Bluespresents the dances. Visitwww.capitalblues.org for more.
FRIDAY/DEC. 27Contra Dance. 7:30 p.m. lessons start;
8:30 -11:30 p.m. dancing at SpanishBallroom at Glen Echo, 7300MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo.Perpetual e-Motion provides music.$10/adult; $5/17 and under. Visitwww.fridaynightdance.org for more.
SATURDAY/DEC. 28Swing Dance. 8 p.m.-midnight in the
Spanish Ballroom at Glen Echo, 7300MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo. Livemusic by the Tom Cunningham
Orchestra. Lessons from 8-9 p.m.,included in admission. $18. Visitwww.glenechopark.org for more.
SUNDAY/DEC. 29Waltz Dance. 2:45-6 p.m. at Spanish
Ballroom at Glen Echo, 7300MacArthur Blvd. Dance to live musicby Terpsichore. $10. Visitwww.waltztimedances.org for more.
Argentine Tango. 6:30-11 p.m. atBallroom Annex, 7300 MacArthurBlvd. DJ Rene Davila will mix themusic. $15/with lesson; $10/danceonly. Visit www.glenechopark.org.
Contra Dance. 7 p.m. lessons start;7:30 -10:30 p.m. dancing at SpanishBallroom at Glen Echo, 7300MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo.Perpetual e-Motion provides music.$13/nonmember; $10/member; $5/age 17 and under. Visitwww.glenechopark.org for more.
Holiday Open House. 1-4 p.m. atGlenview Mansion, 603 EdmonstonDrive, Rockville. Enjoy freeentertainment and activities at themansion. Visit www.rockvillemd.gov/glenview or 240-314-8660.
TUESDAY/DEC. 31New Year’s Eve Swing Dance. 8
p.m.-12:30 a.m. in the SpanishBallroom at Glen Echo Park, 7300MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo. LadyLuck and the Suicide Kings willperform. All ages welcome, lightrefreshments and party favors. $25.Visit www.glenechopark.org.
SATURDAY/JAN. 4Music Performance. 8 p.m. at
Westmoreland Congregational UCCChurch, 1 Westmoreland Circle,Bethesda. Alexander Paley andPeiwen Chen will performStravinsky’s “Rite of Spring” andRachmaninoff Preludes. Free.Donations accepted. Visitwww.washingtonconservatory.org/.
SUNDAY/JAN. 5Music Performance. 5 p.m. at The
Episcopal Church of the Redeemer,6201 Dunrobbin Drive, Bethesda. TheYale Spizzwinks(?), anunderclassman a cappella group willperform. Suggested donation of $15.Visit www.redeemerbethesda.org or301-229-3770.
2013 Cabin John Park VFD –Santa’s Neighborhood Schedule
Santa and his firefighter elves will make their way through the streets ofthe community collecting toys for the National Center for Children and Fami-lies in Bethesda and the USMC Toys for Tots Program. Children who donatea toy will get a candy cane from Santa. The decked out and lit fire truck willbe on the roads nightly from Dec. 7-20, 6-9 p.m. On Christmas Eve, Santawill deliver the collected toys to the National Center for Children and Fami-lies on Greentree Road, Bethesda. Presents may be brought out to Santa onthe Fire Truck or to either Cabin John Fire Station. Visit www.cjpvfd.org.
WEDNESDAY/DEC. 18Potomac Village, Camotop, Falconhurst, Bradley Farms, McAuley Park,
Kentdale Estates, Bradley Blvd. Estates, Congressional Forest Estates
THURSDAY/DEC. 19No runs. County Fire Association Meeting Night
FRIDAY/DEC. 20Bannockburn, Bannockburn Estates, Al Marah, Wilson Knolls (1st due only)
DECEMBER 21, 22 AND 23Make up days for inclement weather or missed area
FRIDAY/DEC. 24Santa Delivers Toys to the Children. Noon. Schedule is subject to
change due to weather and immediate emergency response.
8 ❖ Potomac Almanac ❖ December 18-24, 2013 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
© Google Map data
2
5
6
4
1
3
8
7
Photos by Deb Stevens/The Almanac
Address ..................................BR FB HB .. Postal City ..Sold Price .... Type ....... Lot AC . PostalCode ..... Subdivision ...... Date Sold
1 9004 POTOMAC STATION LN ..... 6 ... 4 .... 2 ..... POTOMAC ... $1,260,000 .... Detached ..... 2.00 ........ 20854 .... POTOMAC OUTSIDE .... 10/24/13
2 12646 TRAVILAH RD ................. 4 ... 4 .... 2 ..... POTOMAC ... $1,260,000 .... Detached ..... 2.94 ........ 20854 . DARNESTOWN OUTSIDE 10/15/13
3 10641 ROCK RUN DR ................ 6 ... 4 .... 1 ..... POTOMAC ... $1,215,000 .... Detached ..... 0.43 ........ 20854 ....... FAWCETT FARMS ...... 10/25/13
4 11539 LE HAVRE DR ................. 7 ... 3 .... 1 ..... POTOMAC ... $1,100,000 .... Detached ..... 0.43 ........ 20854 .. LAKE NORMANDY ESTS . 10/31/13
5 8601 NUTMEG CT .................... 4 ... 3 .... 0 ..... POTOMAC ... $1,100,000 .... Detached ..... 2.03 ........ 20854 ....... POTOMAC FALLS ...... 10/14/13
6 12807 THREE SISTERS RD ......... 4 ... 3 .... 2 ..... POTOMAC ... $1,080,000 .... Detached ..... 2.07 ........ 20854 ... BEALLMOUNT GROVE .. 10/04/13
7 8309 SNUG HILL LN .................. 5 ... 4 .... 1 ..... POTOMAC ... $1,050,000 .... Detached ..... 0.37 ........ 20854 . EAST GATE OF POTOMAC 10/21/13
8 7000 MASTERS DR ................... 5 ... 3 .... 2 ..... POTOMAC ... $1,035,000 .... Detached ..... 0.39 ........ 20854 .......... RIVER FALLS ......... 10/08/13
Copyright 2013 RealEstate Business Intelligence. Source: MRIS as of November 15, 2013.
Potomac REAL ESTATEPotomac REAL ESTATESold in October, 2013,
$1,035,000~$1,260,000In October 2013, 45 Potomac homes
sold between $2,800,000-$479,000.
1 9004 Potomac Station Lane — $1,260,000
2 12646 Travilah Road — $1,260,000
3 10641 Rock Run Drive — $1,215,000
4 11539 Le Havre Drive — $1,100,000
5 8601 Nutmeg Court — $1,100,000
8 7000 Masters Drive — $1,035,000
Potomac Almanac ❖ December 18-24, 2013 ❖ 9www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
YOGA CLASSES IN POTOMAC
Kula Yoga Hamsa Yoga
St. James Episcopal
Church
11815 Seven Locks Road
Monday - Friday
9:30am
St. Andrews
Episcopal School
8804 Postoak Road
Mon & Wed 6:30 & 8:00pm
Thurs 6:30pm
Sat 9:00am
For more information please contact:
Nancy Steinberg
240-994-5092
www.Kulayogaclass.com
Shanthi [email protected]
www.hamsa-yoga.com
For Weekend &Evening Classes
For Daytime
Classes
Sports
Pee Wee Steelers Win ChampionshipThe Rockville Football League Pee Wee Steelers team, based out of Potomac, wonits league Championship at Bullis High School. The team, coached by DaveHumiston, Jim Murphy, Bill Rejevich and Tim Wharton won the 11-12 year olddivision RFL Championship by defeating the Dawgs 6-0 in the Super Bowl. Half-back Andrew Rauber scored the winning touchdown with :47 seconds to play in thegame on an 80-yard run.
Wootton BeatsChurchill in OT
The Wotton boys’ basketballteam defeated Churchill 83-81 inovertime on Dec. 13.
Wootton improved to 2-0, in-cluding a 69-51 victory overWalter Johnson on Dec. 12. ThePatriots will host Wheaton at 7p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 18 andMagruder at 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec.20.
Churchill dropped to 1-1. TheBulldogs will host Gaithersburg at7 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 18 andWhitman at 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec.20.
Churchill Girls’BasketballWins Two
The Churchill girls’ basketballteam responded to its season-opening loss to Paint Branch withwins over St. Andrew’s andWootton.
The Bulldogs beat the rival Pa-triots 62-57 on Dec. 13.
Churchill will travel to faceGaithersburg at 7 p.m. on Wednes-day, Dec. 18 and will hostWhitman at 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec.20.
Whitman BoysGet First Win
The Whitman boys’ basketballteam improved to 1-2 with a 65-46 win over Landon on Dec. 13.
The Vikings opened the seasonwith a 62-42 loss to GeorgetownPrep on Dec. 6, followed by a 52-47 loss to Rockville on Dec. 11.
Whitman will host Northwest at7 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 18 andtravel to face Churchill at 7 p.m.on Friday, Dec. 20.
Bullis Boys WinConsolation Title
The Bullis boys’ basketball teamwon the consolation title at itsholiday tournament, beatingWesttown 48-46 in the consolationfinal on Dec. 15.
The day before, Bullis lost toGenesis 73-71 to put the Bulldogsin the consolation bracket.
Bullis, which improved to 6-1with the win over Westtown, willface North Point in the Under Ar-mor Invitational on Dec. 21.
Bullis Girls’BasketballImproves to 2-3
The Bullis girls’ basketball teamdefeated Bull Multicultural 46-30on Dec. 15 in the consolation gameof the Bullis holiday tournament.
Bullis, which improved to 2-3,will complete in the Title IX tour-nament on Dec. 27, 28 and 30.
Whitman GirlsBeat Rockville
The Whitman girls’ basketballteam improved to 1-1 with a 55-33 win over Rockville on Dec. 11.
The Vikings will travel to faceNorthwest on Wednesday, Dec. 18and Churchill at 7 p.m. on Friday,Dec. 20.
Sports Briefs
Pho
to
C
on
tributed
10 ❖ Potomac Almanac ❖ December 18-24, 2013 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
GUTTER CLEANINGGutters and Downspouts Cleaned
Small Repairs • Gutter Guards
PINNACLE SERVICESlic/ins 703-802-0483 free est.email [email protected]: lawnsandgutters.comFriendly Service with a Friendly Price!
GUTTER GUTTER
R&N Carpentry
✦BASEMENTS ✦BATHS ✦KITCHENSForeclosure specialist/Power washing
✦Exterior Wood Rot More!Deck & Fence repair, Screen Porches
No jobs too large or smallFree est. 37 yrs exp. Licensed, Insured
703-987-5096
IMPROVEMENTS IMPROVEMENTS
GGAARRDDEENNEERREnergetic gardener,
Speaks French & English.Fall Cleanup, weeding, planting, edging,
mulching, maintenance. Excellent Potomac references.
301-980-8258
LANDSCAPING LANDSCAPING
3rd Generation Masonry CompanyFamily Owned & Operated Since the 1950s
MASONRY SPECIALIST, LLCFor All of Your Masonry Needs
Custom Design, Installation, Repairs & Restoration
Go to www.masonryspecialist.com for ideas, pictures & coupons!All Work Guaranteed - Licensed & Fully Insured
Class A License #VA2705087240A
BRICK - FIELDSTONEFLAGSTONE - CONCRETE
703-443-2308
EP Henry & Belgard PaversPatios, Walkways, Driveways, Retaining & Decorative Walls
MASONRY MASONRY
FIREWOOD
FIREWOODMixed Seasoned Hardwood
$130 half cord$220 full cord
Call Joe at301-856-4436
301-602-9528 Cell
ClassifiedClassifiedZone 5: Potomac
Ad Deadline: Monday Noon • 301-983-1900
21 Announcements 21 Announcements
21 Announcements 21 Announcements 21 Announcements
HDI COMPUTER SOLUTIONSJENNIFER SMITH ❖ Serving the Area Since 1995
➣ Speed up Slow Computers➣ Troubleshooting➣ Virus Removal➣ Computer Setup
(571) [email protected]
101 Computers 101 Computers 26 Antiques
We pay top $ for antique furniture and mid-century
Danish/modernteak furniture, STERLING, MEN'S WATCHES, jewelry
and costume jewelry,paintings/art glass/clocks.
Schefer Antiques @703-241-0790.
Email:[email protected]
For a free digital sub-scription to one or allof the 15 ConnectionNewspapers, go towww.connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe
Complete digital rep-lica of the print edition,including photos andads, delivered weeklyto your e-mail box.
Questions? E-mail:[email protected]
Home & GardenHome & GardenCONTRACTORS.compotomacalmanac.com
Zone 5: Potomac
Ad Deadline: Monday Noon • 301-983-1900
EmploymentEmploymentZone 5: Potomac
Ad Deadline: Tuesday 11 a.m. • 301-983-1900
Considering that I’ve been cancer-centricnow for nearly five years, one would havethought I might have learned and totallyembraced an alternative concept: forward liv-ing – and less thinking about past causes andtheir possible current effects. Certainly cancercauses physical manifestations and symptomsthat are diagnosable and indicative of trou-ble. But it’s the unseen effects that in somecases cause as many difficulties. What I amreferring to is the mental and emotional toll aterminal diagnosis and short term prognosiscan have on the patient’s perspective on lifeand living, and what’s presumptively thoughtto be left of it.
And in my experience now as a compara-tively long-term survivor – five years comeFebruary 27, of stage IV, non-small cell lungcancer (NSCLC), backwards thinking, as inwhy me, as in woe is me, has generally notbeen characteristic of my daily grind. Sure,I’ve made changes to my pre-cancer Kennyregimen of poor diet and above-averagestress, and have regularly compared and con-trasted my past with my present/future.However, much of this has been ongoing.I’ve never felt as if I’ve dwelled on any of it.Focused maybe, but not so much as a nega-tive, more as a positive, as in changes whichneeded to be made – or else. Moreover, tolearn the error of my ways and try to parlayany new found knowledge into a future thatinitially, according to my oncologist’s originalprognosis: “13 months to two years”, washardly guaranteed.
In spite of it all, I have lived – and learnedand accepted that my new reality is some-what different than it once was: somewherebetween tenuous and temporary. Still, think-ing about the past can only do so much goodwhen contemplating a future that has beensnatched away somewhat (somewhat? quite,actually) unexpectedly at 54 and one half. If Iwant to have a future, thinking and living as ifI have one is more agreeable and morerewarding – and much less stressful thanthinking I don’t. And constantly reviewing,assessing, and connecting with the horse onwhich I rode in, as informative as it may be inhelping to understand and appreciate themedical predicament in which I find myselfso immersed, might actually be causing moreharm – emotionally, than I’m willing to admit.I can’t change the past, so living with it on adaily basis when I have a present and a futureto consider might be shackling me in someemotional way that is preventing me frommaintaining the positive and optimistic atti-tude so crucial in defending myself againstthe insidious disease inside my lungs.
Not that I’m suggesting that I can talk/think these malignant tumors (“metastatic tothe lung”) to cease and desist, but spendingmental time on what has already occurred,instead of what possibly could be, seemscounterproductive, maybe even harmful.Trouble has already found me; I don’t needto encourage it. And after all these years, Ishould know better. I do know better.Nevertheless, as the content of this columnclearly indicates, I am still under siege. I amstill trying to balance the challenges of livingwith a future while being mindful of a pastand understanding that some emotions I can’tcontrol. Cancer is funny like that, but it’s nolaughing matter. Even so, I did think the sub-ject was fodder for a column – or maybe I’mjust indulging myself at your expense. If it’sthe latter more so than the former, I appreci-ate your patience. I probably need it.
Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative forThe Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers.
By KENNETH B. LOURIE
BackwardsThinking
BUSINESS OPP
NATIONAL CHILDRENS CENTERNo sell! Salary + Bonus + Benefits!
Weekdays 9-4
TELEPHONE
☎☎301-333-1900
A great opportunity toWORK AT HOME!
☎☎
BUSINESS OPP
NATIONAL CHILDRENS CENTERNo sell! Salary + Bonus + Benefits!
Weekdays 9-4
TELEPHONE
☎☎301-333-1900
A great opportunity toWORK AT HOME!
☎☎
Newspapers & Online
HOW TO SUBMIT ADS TO
CLASSIFIED • CHOOSE 1 TO 6 ZONESE-mail [email protected]
or call Andrea @ 703-778-9411
EMPLOYMENT • CHOOSE 1 TO 6 ZONESE-mail [email protected]
or call Andrea @ 703-778-9411
Rockville
Potomac
BethesdaChevyChase
NorthPotomac
Washington,D.C.
Herndon
Reston
Chantilly
GreatFalls
ViennaOakton
Arlington
McLean1
4
HistoricClifton
Fairfax
FairfaxStation
Burke
Springfield
2
6
5
3
NorthClifton
Centreville
LaurelHill
DullesAirport
Great Papers • Great ReadersGreat Results!
Employers:Are yourrecruiting adsnot working inother papers?
Try a better way to fill your employment openings
703-917-6464classified@connection
newspapers.com
• Target your best jobcandidates wherethey live.
• Reach readers inaddition to thosewho are currentlylooking for a job.
• Proven readership.
• Proven results.
The biggestthings arealways the
easiest to dobecause there isno competition.
-William Van Horne
Potomac Almanac ❖ December 18-24, 2013 ❖ 11www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
The Woods Academy Roboticsteams, the OwlBots and theGreen Machine, participated on
Sunday, Dec. 15, at the FIRST LegoLeague (FLL) Qualifier held at the GlenElg Country School. Twenty-seven teamscompeted. The OwlBots and the GreenMachine were two of only six teams tosurvive that qualifier and advance to theFLL Maryland State Championship,
which will be held on Saturday, March 1 atUMBC in Catonsville.
The OwlBots won the Champions Award,which is first place in all judging catego-ries: Robot design, research project, corevalues, and robot games.
The Green Machine won the Judge’sAward, which is given to a team that scoresconsistently high across all judging catego-ries. This is the first time that both teams
have received an award at the same quali-fier. In addition, since the 2009-2010 schoolyear, The Woods inaugural Robotics season,at least one Woods robotics team has com-peted at the FLL Maryland State Champi-onship.
Each year the teams are presented a chal-lenge facing today’s scientists. The 2013Nature’s Fury Challenge compelled teamsto explore the storms, quakes, waves and
other natural disasters. They researchedand presented their own solutions forwhat can be done when intense naturalevents meet the places people live, work,and play.
The OwlBots developed a notificationApp designed to alert users when a natu-ral disaster is eminent and provide re-lief options to survivors. The Green Ma-chine conceived of a storm proof house.
OwlBots: Front (from) are Nicholas Mori, Alex Toner, Darius Kuddo,Antos Wellisz; back are Coach Eric Smith, Coach Katya Pilong, GabeSchneider, JD McLean, and Coach Paul Paoletti. Not pictured is CeciliaBowe.
Green Machine: Front (from left) are Victor Aldridge, Oliver Wolcott,Tom Agnew, John Cavanaugh; back are Coach Eric Smith, Coach KatyaPilong, Alex Bender, Will Hohman, Genevieve Grenier and Coach PaulPaoletti.
Victory for The Woods Academy Robotics Teams
By Marilyn Campbell
The Almanac
Liz Henry is nervous about her upcoming flight to San Francisco. It’snot TSA regulations or long linesthat are causing her anxiety, how-
ever. It is traveling alone with her three chil-dren — all of whom are under the age of 6.
“My kids are 5, 3 and 1,” said Henry, wholives in Vienna, Va. “I’m taking them to visitmy family for Christmas, but they’ve neverflown before. I have a lot of DVDs packed,but I don’t know how far those will get me.I don’t like pacifying my kids with videos,but I don’t think I have a choice.”
Going home for the holidays often meansboarding an airplane with high-energy chil-dren and settling in for a long ride. Parentssuch as Henry scramble to find ways to fillthe time in a way that keeps their child en-tertained without disturbing other passen-gers. Local education experts say there areoptions that don’t involve the last resort ofvideos and electronic games, however.
“Reading is always a good choice, but for
many children, it cannot hold their atten-tion for long plane rides,” said Len Annetta,Ph.D., a professor in the College of Educa-tion and Human Development at GeorgeMason University. “Games like Scrabblechallenge players’ literacy skills in a fun way.Crossword puzzles are also fun and engag-ing.”
Annetta, who recently returned from afamily trip to Italy, has first-hand experi-
ence with surviving lengthy plane rides withchildren in tow. “I took the whole family,including my 13- and 11-year-old children,”he said. “My children are older, but weplayed a name the cloud game. Of course,we were above the clouds, so it made it abit more difficult.”
When traveling abroad, a long flight isan ideal time to learn more about the cul-ture or language of your final destination.
“My children tried a crash course on Ital-ian,” said Annetta. “They learned a fewwords they used during the week we werethere.”
Bethesda-based psychotherapist KatieCogan, Ph.D., recommends activities thatengage a child’s imagination, particularlyfor younger children. “You always have yourimagination with you no matter what,” shesaid. “You can say to a child, ‘Tell me a story,’or you can take turns telling stories withyour child. When you’re on the plane, youcan help your child imagine what it will looklike when we get there.”
For young children, Cogan said, “Usingwhat’s inside you to create a world that al-ready exists. It is called active imagination.Use your creativity to do anything. If you’rewith a young child, you can ask ‘How manythings can you think of that are red?’”
Cogan also advises helping children makeup a story, particularly about their final des-tination. “If it is a small kid, give them thefirst part of the story or the first word andlet them take if from there,” she said. “Havepaper with you, and you can have your childtell you the story and either write it downor have your child write the story down andcolor it.”
Annetta said, “Journaling your experienceis a fun way to practice writing while tell-ing the story of where you are going orwhere you’ve been.”
Home for the Holidays: Surviving a Long TripKeeping childrenentertained onlengthy airplane rides.
Len Annetta, Ph.D., of George Mason University, traveled to Italy recentlywith his wife, Jennifer, and his children Samantha and Joey. Annettakept his children occupied during the long fight with cloud games andby helping them practice Italian.
Pho
to
co
urtesy o
f Len
A
nn
etta
12 ❖ Potomac Almanac ❖ December 18-24, 2013 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
