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Kentlands by Kentlands Dot Us for Gaithersburg Communities

Kentlands Dot Us. magazine is posted not only for Kentlands, but for anyone interested in Kentlands, Lakelands, and other Gaithersburg communities as well as for those interested in new urbanism. We hope that you enjoy your visit to our site.

Response to Post Editorial on Day Laborer's Site

Love Resigns

Kentlands Dot Us will expand coverage and have a new look early in 2007.

Check OUT:

The Mortgage Vault, Inc.

Charles Sullivan, Realtor

England Custom Furniture Direct

Tri-State Home Services Heating and Cooling

Inspiration Original Paintworks

Get your own Domain Name

Great Novels! Thriller Tales

Vasilis Mediterranean Grill

Active Family Chiropractic

Word Worth

Advertise in KDU—Contact Us about our Autumn Ad Sales

The Kentlands Arts Barn is now a facility which includes 4 artists-in-resident studios, an art gallery, a museum shop, and a 99-seat theater in the former loft.

The Kentlands Mansion is now a City of Gaithersburg Facility which can be rented for various occasions. Click the picture to enlarge it, and click here for a virtual tour.

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● Columns❍ Charles Sullivan—“I Told That Girl That My Prospects

Were Good”❍ Grace Maciolek's Destination column—Mackinac

Island–Of Lilacs and Long Ago● Commentary

❍ Marien Helz—Growing Up in Gaithersburg: Santa Claus

❍ Terry Brennan's photographic essay―D.C. at Night● Viewpoints

❍ Louis Solomon with Dick Van Orden—Nuclear Power (Fusion)

❍ Charles Miess—Sharing a Fire

Restaurant reviews The Curious Club Local Authors

Gaithersburg News:

● Holiday Giving

● Chief Viverette to Retire

● Best of Broadway ● Children’s Repertory Theatre● Oils, Pastels, Jewelry

Articles:

● Winter Lights● December 2006 Activities● Metropolitan Artists Society● Volunteers Sought for Election

Advisory Committee

Kentlands was built on the estate of Otis Beall Kent. His mansion is now the cultural arts center for Gaithersburg, Maryland. The barn, which is now the Arts Barn, houses a rich center for community theater and artists' workspace as well as offices and a pleasant shop selling the works of local artists. The former barn loft is now a 99-seat theater for the performing arts. Kentlands is thought to be the largest and most successful neo-traditional project in North America.

Click the links below for the tours. You will be forwarded through the pictures

and back to this page.

Tour the Kentlands

Kentlands/Lakelands Maps—

In jpg format In Adobe format

Kentlands Site Plan—Click to Enlarge [Note that this is not a map, but a site plan drawn prior to building. You may not be able to find your house here.]

Click to enlarge the original Kentlands

Map

Tour Lakelands

Tour Kentlands & Lakelands Business District Tour the Colonnade



Kentlands Dot Us magazine is an independent publication for Kentlands, Lakelands, and the surrounding communities in Gaithersburg, Maryland. Issues are published on the third of each month with some of the articles published monthly and others quarterly. Kentlands is a neo-traditional, or new urbanist, community. The community design is based on the concept that the most pleasant living environments were nineteenth century villages in which homes were grouped around a town center with shops, community buildings, and schools. New urbanism has developed architectural communities going back to this design. Lakelands is a similar, and neighboring, community built on property which was also once owned by Otis Beal Kent. Lakelands has its own distinct character. Both communities are within walking distance of restaurants, grocery stores, and shops.

[ Cover ] [ Articles ] [ Columns ] [ Commentary ] [ Viewpoints ] [ News ] [ Letters ] [ Restaurants ] [ Classifieds ] [ Links ] [ Our Townes ] [ Kentlands ] [ History ] [ Contact ]

Our Townes g Kentlands & Lakelands g Gaithersburg by Kentlands Dot Us Volume III Issue 12 Kentlands Dot Us & Aurora Artisans® © 2006 All rights reserved Disclaimers


Kentlands Dot Us Articles

Articles

Gaithersburg's Favorite Holiday Tradition Now in its 11th Season

Gaithersburg, MD. The City of Gaithersburg’s Winter Lights Festival returns for an eleventh season of magical delight for the entire family.

From November 24 through December 31 this unique spectacle will feature more than 380 illuminated displays and 60 animated vignettes along a three and a half mile drive that is sure to capture the imagination and create lifelong memories.

Driving through the enchanted forest setting, festival-goers experience an array of displays that light up the night. Themed areas include Winter Woods, Teddy Bear Land, Victorian Village, the North Pole and much more.

Thousands of people in the metropolitan area have made this an annual holiday tradition. Return visitors will be thrilled to find new displays and arrangements to keep them coming back for years to come. Several contests will take place during this year’s event, including a drawing contest for children, a trivia contest for all ages, and a chance to win a $1,000 shopping spree at Lakeforest Shopping Center. Complete contest details will be available in the official Winter Lights Festival program book distributed to all visitors.

Winter Lights is open Sunday through Thursday from 6 to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 6 to 10 p.m. The Festival is closed on December 25. Admission is $10 per car Sunday through Thursday and $12 per car Friday and Saturday. Two dollar discount coupons valid Monday through Thursday only are available at nearby Lakeforest Shopping Center.

Back by popular demand this year are open trolley rides through the festival, a great way to see the lights from a whole new perspective. Rides are available on November 27, December 4 and December 11 at 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. The fee is $5 per person. Seating is limited, and is available on a first come, first served basis.

In the spirit of the holidays, proceeds from the 2006 festival will benefit local charities, including The Dwelling Place, the Friends of Seneca Creek State Park,

City of Gaithersburg Upcoming Events and

Activities – December 2006

11th Annual Gaithersburg Winter Lights Festival

● Friday, November 24 – Sunday, December 31 (closed December 25) See November listing.

Best of Broadway – “Overtures and Finales”, presented in partnership with KAT 2nd Stage

● December 1 through 15● Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m.● $12 residents / $14 nonresidents● Arts Barn, 311 Kent Square Rd., Gaithersburg,

MD● A review of many favorite Broadway songs

brought to you by the award-winning voices of the Kensington Arts Theatre.

● 301-258-6394● www.gaithersburgmd.gov/artsbarn

Children’s Winter Repertory Theatre, in partnership with Classika Theatre

● December 2 through 31● The Nutcracker● Saturday and Sundays, 11 a.m. Additional

performances Dec. 26 – 29 at 11 a.m.● This story made famous by Tchaikovsky’s ballet

will be staged using puppets.● The Snow Queen● Saturdays and Sundays, 2 p.m.● Hans Christian Andersen’s tale of a brother

and sister separated when one is captured by the evil Snow Queen, and their struggle to reunite.

● $12 residents / $14 nonresidents● Arts Barn, 311 Kent Square Rd., Gaithersburg,

MD● 301-258-6394● www.gaithersburgmd.gov/artsbarn

“Jingle Jubilee”

● Saturday, December 2● 6 p.m.● Gaithersburg City Hall, 31 S. Summit Ave.,

Gaithersburg, MD● Holiday music and sing-a-long, tree lighting,

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Hospice Caring, Inc., Identity, and the Shady Grove Adventist Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

This year’s festival is sponsored in part by MIX 107.3 FM, Lakeforest Shopping Center, The Gazette, Shady Grove Adventist Hospital, Comcast, MedImmune, Hughes Network Systems, Sandy Spring Bank, Giant Food, OBA Bank, Washington Parent, and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

Seneca Creek State Park is located at 11950 Clopper Road, a few miles west of the intersection with I-270. For more information and group admission rates please call 301-258-6350 or visit www.gaithersburgmd.gov/winterlights.

The Curious Club

Contact Dr. Louis Solomon for the next meeting.

Mansion Hosts Exhibit of Washington Metropolitan Artists Society

Gaithersburg, MD. The City of Gaithersburg presents a winter exhibit featuring watercolor paintings of the Washington Metropolitan Artists Society (WMAS) at Kentlands Mansion November 24, 2006 through January 21, 2007. The Mansion is located at 320 Kent Square Road. Viewing is by appointment only. An artists’ reception will be held on December 7, 2006 from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

The exhibition includes recent watercolors of landscape, seascape, nature painting, townscape, and still life by members of the WMAS. Over the past several years these members have experienced growing success as both individuals and as a group in WMAS exhibits featured locally at the Kensington Art Gallery and Brookside Gardens.

Three main focuses celebrating light, color, and natural beauty are commonly found within their

take-your-own-photo-with-Santa, free hot chocolate.

● 301-258-6350● www.gaithersburgmd.gov

Holiday Tea & Artisans’ Market

● Sunday, December 3● 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. seatings● $25● Kentlands Mansion, 320 Kent Square Rd.,

Gaithersburg, MD● Sample teas and treats courtesy of Tranquil

Traditions, and shop for unique holiday gifts in the elegant setting of Kentlands Mansion.

● 301-258-6425● www.gaithersburgmd.gov/kentlandsmansion

“The Comedy and Mystery Society”

● Wednesday, December 6● 8 p.m.● Arts Barn, 311 Kent Square Rd., Gaithersburg,

MD● $15 residents / $18 nonresidents● An evening of uproarious participatory theater

and astounding sleight of hand. Different show each time.

● 301-258-6394● www.gaithersburgmd.gov/artsbarn

Gaithersburg Community Chorus Winter Concert

● Saturday, December 9● 7 p.m.● Free● Watkins Mill High School Auditorium, 10301

Apple Ridge Rd., Montgomery Village, MD● The 70-member chorus will be performing the

"Magnificat" by Johann Sebastian Bach and "A Ceremony of Carols" by Benjamin Britten.

● 301-258-6350● www.gaithersburgmd.gov

High School Show Stoppers

● Tuesday, December 12● 7:30 p.m.● Arts Barn, 311 Kent Square Rd., Gaithersburg,

MD● Free● Enjoy local high school performers giving their

all in a variety of rousing numbers.● 301-258-6394● www.gaithersburgmd.gov/artsbarn



artwork. Collectively the members study painting techniques of masters and practice drawing, matting, framing, and other essential techniques. They frequently participate in social events and landscape-painting expeditions, including overnight visits to select scenic spots varying from seasides to mountain ranges. The goal of the Society is to help develop skills, facilitate exhibitions of their paintings, and most importantly, take pleasure in each other’s company while contributing to the development of the arts in the greater DC area.

For more information and viewing hours call Gallery Director Andi Rosati at 301-258-6394 or visit the Mansion online at www.gaithersburgmd.gov/kentlandsmansion

Volunteers Sought for Ad Hoc Election Participation Advisory Committee

Gaithersburg, MD. The City of Gaithersburg is looking for interested residents to serve on its newly formed Ad Hoc Election Participation Advisory Committee. The Committee is charged with reviewing voter turnout information from the 2003 and 2005 municipal elections, reviewing best practices of other jurisdictions, and providing recommendations to improve the voter turnout for future elections to the Board of Supervisors of Elections by March 1, 2007.

To be considered for appointment please send a letter of interest and a resume to Mayor Sidney Katz at Gaithersburg City Hall, 31 South Summit Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD, 20877. The deadline for submission is November 28, 2006. For more information please contact Assistant City Manager Fred Felton at 301-258-6310.

Lease Will Not be Executed for Employment Center at Festival

Shopping Center

Gaithersburg, MD. Owners of the Festival at Muddy Branch Shopping Center informed the City of Gaithersburg that after receiving unanimous strong disapproval from tenants at a meeting this morning, the Nellis Corporation will not be executing a lease with Montgomery County government for the operation of an employment center at the shopping center. The site was initially endorsed by a majority of the Mayor and City Council at a special work session on October 12, at which time the Nellis Corporation and Montgomery County government began lease negotiations.

“While we are disappointed that this potential location is no longer available to us, I respect Nellis Corporation’s concern for their tenants and understand that this is a business decision,” said City Manager David Humpton. “I would like to thank the Nellis Corporation for thoroughly investigating the opportunity and going this far to attempt a resolution.”

City staff will be communicating with Montgomery County government and will be re-evaluating options. Possible next steps will be proposed to the Mayor and Council at an upcoming meeting.

For more information please contact the Gaithersburg City Manager’s Office at 301-258-6310 or visit the City’s website at www.gaithersburgmd.gov.

If you would like to write for Kentlands Dot Us , contact us at [email protected]

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Volume III Issue 12 Kentlands Dot Us & Aurora Artisans® © 2006 All rights reserved Disclaimers


Kentlands Dot Us Columns

Columns

Quarterly

Mackinac Island– Of Lilacs and Long Ago

By Graceann Maciolek

There's something in the "otherness" of Mackinac Island, in the upper peninsula of Michigan, that draws me back every few years.

Even though it is an extremely crowded place in the summer, it never feels overwhelming, as so many other tourist spots tend to do. There are times when I just have to be among the horses and bicycles again (because one of Mackinac's many claims to fame is the fact that no cars are allowed).

Mackinaw City

Though I am terrified of bridges, I navigate the Mackinac Bridge with only a few trembles, and gratefully reach terra firma in Mackinaw City at Fort Michilimackinac, which sits at the Southern end of the Bridge. There is rich history displayed here through interpretive programs, reenactments and visits with costumed docents. Archeological digs are ongoing and continually fruitful at this fur-trading outpost and village that first belonged to the French and then the British in the Colonial Era. Those who wish to climb the towers at the corners of the Fort are treated to a gorgeous view of the Straits and the Bridge.

Monthly

“I Told That Girl That My Prospects Were Good”

By Charles Sullivan, ABR, CRS, GRI, MBA

The year 2007 will be better for real estate than 2006. Or maybe not. Is the worst behind us? Or do we have more stormy weather ahead? Predicting real estate prices is no easier than forecasting commodity prices or stock prices.

Anecdotal evidence of slowdown in the residential market is abundant. In Kentlands, the numbers parallel larger regional and national trends. During October and November 2005, 17 homes sold with an average of 34 days on market; in 2006, the numbers were 6 homes and 128 days on market. One property, 305 Booth Street, traded hands at $1,150,000 in August 2005 and then at $935,000 in November 2006. Yet another property, 604 Kent Oaks Way, went the other way, climbing from $1,025,000 in June 2005 to $1,165,000 in July 2006 (albeit with upgrades).

Fundamentally, many factors foreshadow a strong local real estate market for the rest of the decade. Energy prices have recovered from their post-Katrina highs, interest rates remain highly affordable, and the Washington area labor market is at virtually full employment.

When real estate activity will resume at its 2001-04 pace is anyone’s guess. But the basics – interest rates and employment – remain strong.

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Kentlands Dot Us Columns

After some shopping and touristing in Mackinaw City (no matter how it's spelled, it's always pronounced "MackinAW,") we cross back over the Bridge (I ask my companion to drive this time so that can look out at Mackinac Island) to our lodgings in St. Ignace. St. Ignace isn't quite as busy or crowded as Mackinaw City, and we have a room with a balcony overlooking Lake Huron. At this point, we were really looking forward to sitting out on that balcony and enjoying the view. After a quiet dinner, we turn in relatively early, because we need all our energy for the next day's exciting plans - a full day on Mackinac Island!

Mackinac Island–Your Carriage Awaits

There are several ferries that run to the Island from both St. Ignace and Mackinaw City - during the Summer months they leave every 30 minutes or so. The different companies compete heartily for your business, offering all sorts of incentives. There was no glamorous reason for the one we chose – it was closest to our hotel.

Second only to the pleasures of the Island itself is the marvelous way you get there. I love water, as those of you who have read my St. Simons articles already know, and I adore ... click to continue

Quarterly―October © 2006 Kentlands Dot Us

As we head into 2007, you may wish to consider the following:

Buyers should buy now! Deals, great deals, are out there for the taking. Waiting for further price erosion may be problematic. Look for properties on the market more than 60 days. Base offers on recent comparables, the best bellweather for “market” price. Aggressive buyers may wish to submit multiple purchase offers simultaneously, thus creating an auction effect. Let sellers compete for your business!

Current buyers will also appreciate the almost-full restoration of their historic privileges, including home inspections and seller closing-cost contributions. Home-sale contingencies are still not widely accepted by sellers at the present time. Play with price and other terms before inserting a home-sale contingency into a purchase offer.

Sellers who wish to sell now should ask themselves a very hard question: “How badly do I want to sell my home?’’ An honest, accurate answer to this question will dictate a number of follow-on decisions. Do you fit into any of these categories?

“I don’t have to move. I want to see if I can get my price.” If “my price” and “market price” differ by more than 1.5%, do not offer your home for sale now. Wait until March 2007 or later. And then attempt to figure out “market price” anew.

“My home needs ... click to continue

Monthly―December © 2006 Kentlands Dot Us

Columnists write on topics of their own choice, and their views do not necessarily reflect those of Kentlands Dot Us . If you would like to write for Kentlands Dot Us, contact us at [email protected]




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Kentlands Dot Us Columns - Maciolek

Maciolek's Past Columns

We are pleased to present columns by Graceann Maciolek. She is a writer who works for a large law firm. Her greatest loves are her cat of dubious intelligence, Spike, silent and early sound cinema, and road trips around the US (usually to silent film events or historic sites).

Graceann Maciolek's past columns are available here in Adobe files. Click on the links below to access the Adobe files. If you do not have Adobe on your computer, you can download a free copy here:

● St. Simons Island – Going Coastal April 2005 [Quarterly]● Stepping Into the Past – Gettysburg July 2005 [Quarterly]● The New Orleans I Remember October 2005 [Quarterly]● St. Simons Island – The First Visit January 2006 [Quarterly]● ‘Wonderful People Out There in the Dark’ April 2006 [Quarterly]● Travel Then and Now July 2006 [Quarterly]

...continued from the columns page:

being on the boat traveling from the mainland to Mackinac Island. Mackinac is inordinately beautiful when seen from the water - the yellow umbrellas of the café at the Fort; the long awning of The Grand Hotel, and the many mansions that dot the bluffs - it all looks so warm and inviting from the water. I'm so pleased to say that the feeling continues when you step off the boat and get your first glimpse of Mackinac Island up close and personal.

My Kingdom for a ... Oh wait, they're everywhere!

The first thing you notice when you step out from the awning at the dock and into Main Street is the fact that there are horses and bicycles everywhere. Bicycles are a speedy, efficient way to

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navigate the area, but I prefer the leisurely elegance of the horses; there's something so magical about those enormous equines. The first priority for me is to head over to the Carriage Tour, which gives an excellent overview of the Island and helps me get my bearings. All the major landmarks are given their due, and there is the added attraction of being able to disembark at the top of the very steep hill upon which Fort Mackinac resides. Having climbed that hill many times over the years, I can tell you that this is a feature I appreciate beyond measure.

After our informative and relaxing tour of the Island (a common-sense tip - don't sit directly behind the horses - Phew!), including a stop at the beautiful Arch Rock and a drive alongside the Grand Hotel, we stopped at Fort Mackinac for lunch at the Tea Room. This is quite possibly the most beautiful view available anywhere on the Island, and the food was absolutely delicious. We sat and enjoyed the vista in front of us for as long as we dared, for our table was much in demand, and then made our way down that steep hill to visit a couple of the Museums and do some shopping.

Dr. William Beaumont and History Made at Mackinac

Mackinac is home to one of the stranger stories of medical research. In 1822, Alexis St. Martin was accidentally shot in the abdomen, and while the wound was not fatal, it never completely healed. Dr. Beaumont used this opportunity to conduct more than 200 experiments on Mr. St. Martin with regard to the digestive process, completely revolutionizing knowledge on the subject. Some adults are mildly creeped out by the details of these experiments, the specifics of which I will spare you, but kids find this museum absolutely fascinating. The experiments certainly didn't harm Mr. St. Martin - he outlived Dr. Beaumont by 27 years.



Somewhere in Time and the Lilac Festival

As many people may already know, Somewhere In Time, the classic romantic film starring Jane Seymour and the late, beloved Christopher Reeve, was filmed on Mackinac Island. The lush beauty of that story draws many tourists to the Island, and most shops have items relating to the film and the book on which it was based. So great is the pull of that story, more than 25 years since it was released, that there is a festival celebrating it at the Grand Hotel every October, complete with period costume and visits from people who worked on the movie. Also very popular is the Lilac Festival, held in June, and lilacs are prominent throughout the decorating schemes of hotels and shops. Since lilacs are my favorite flower, I feel right at home.

Back Across the Lake We Go

Many people bring their luggage and stay on the Island for several days, but sadly, my companion and I were only daytripping. After all the touring, eating and shopping, it was time to make our way back to the Shepler's dock in order to return to St. Ignace. I was much more subdued on the ride back to the mainland than I had been that morning, not only because I was tired out, but because I knew I wouldn't be able to return for another couple years. More than anything, I was glad that I had decided to park at the dock rather than walking over, because I'd done more walking in that one day than I normally do in a week. We tidied up at the hotel and then ventured out for a quiet dinner together. The topper to the day was hanging out in the hot tub at the hotel (boy, does that feel good on sore feet), and then slept like rocks until quite late the next morning.



Just a couple tips to make your trip more enjoyable:

● Grab Brochures Wherever You Go The Straits area is an embarrassment of historic and natural riches. You never know what might be available, so leave plenty of wiggle room in your schedule in order to take advantage of that stray lighthouse tour or art festival.

● Pack your "Eating Clothes" Throw that diet plan out the window when you're visiting Mackinac. You'll get lots of exercise, but you'll also get lots of food, most especially, fudge, which is a local specialty. Unless you have truly amazing willpower, you will put on a pound or two.

● Layers are a Good Idea, as is Sunscreen The days start and end on a cool note, and get warm in between. It's wise to start with a sweatshirt that you can shed as the day gets warmer and then don again in the evening. Sunscreen is a must (actually, it should always be in your travel bag). Don't forget comfortable walking shoes, either, or you will be very sore, very soon.

I'm so avidly looking forward to returning to Mackinac. It's the perfect summer getaway. See you on the carriage tour!

http://www.mackinacbridge.org/ (The Bridge)

http://www.mackinacparks.com/ (The Historic sites in the Mackinac Area)

http://www.mackinac.com/ (Information about Mackinac Island)

http://www.mict.com/ (Carriage Tours)

http://www.james.com/beaumont/dr_life.htm (Dr. William Beaumont)

http://www.somewhereintime.tv/intro.htm (Somewhere in Time)

Quarterly July © 2006 Kentlands Dot Us



Columnists write on topics of their own choice, and their views do not necessarily reflect those of Kentlands Dot Us. If you would like to write for Kentlands Dot Us, contact us at [email protected]

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Kentlands Dot Us Columns - Sullivan

Charles Sullivan's Past Columns

We are pleased to present columns by Charles Sullivan, ABR, CRS, GRI, MBA.

Charles Sullivan, real estate consultant and founder of the Sullivan Team, is licensed to serve clients in Maryland and the District of Columbia. He is an owner of the Keller Williams market center in Gaithersburg. Prior to joining Keller Williams, Charles worked for Fortune 500 companies such as MCI, Giant Food, Centel, and Contel.

Charles resides in Gaithersburg with his wife, Shelly, who is also licensed and part of the Sullivan Team, and their three sons, Frank (16), Edward (14), and Steven (10). All three boys help the team with marketing and promotional campaigns.

Charles Sullivan's past columns are available here in Adobe files. Click on the links below to access the Adobe files. If you do not have Adobe on your computer, you can download a free copy here:

● Taxes on Out-of-State Property Sellers January 2005● Best Gift Ever–Real Estate Taxes February 2005● Seller Mistakes to Avoid in a Hot Market March 2005● Buyer Mistakes to Avoid in a Hot Market April 2005● Crazy Days in DC Real Estate May 2005● The Importance of Time June 2005● New Law on Capital Gains Withholding July 2005● Is the Housing “Bubble” Ready to Burst? August 2005● Homes I Would Buy September 2005● Tell Before You Sell October 2005● Twelve Rules of the Game November 2005● Santa's Been Good to the Kentlands December 2005● The Kentlands at 14: Aging Well January 2006● Truths, Half Truths, and Outright Baloney February 2006● Mature Kentlands March 2006● The Forward Observer April 2006● Rules of the Road May 2006● How Do I Price My Home? June 2006● So You Want to Sell Too? July 2006● The Future is Ours to See August 2006● Summertime Views September 2006● Ducks on the Pond October 2006● The Golden Age November 2006

...continued from the Columns page:

some work.” If you are unwilling to accept a substantial discount from market, do not offer your home for

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Kentlands Dot Us Columns - Sullivan

sale in winter 2006-07 until you make the upgrades and repairs necessary in order to bring your home to crème puff status.

“I must sell. Two house payments are killing me.” If the home is a crème puff, it could sell at market price in 15-30 days. If the home is not a crème puff, it will sell only for a steep discount or even not all. If the home is priced above market, be prepared for lowball offers or be prepared for no offers at all.

“I would like to sell, but I do not know where I would move.” By all means restore your home to crème puff status and price at market. When the buyer shows up, ask for a 14-day “home-of-choice” contingency. Then start shopping hard. Sellers will love you.

“My company is transferring me. I can either sell on my own or else accept the company’s buy-out offer.” In this market, buy-out offers (typically the averaging of two appraisals, commissioned by the relocation company) tend to offer more money, sometimes substantially more, than what the transferred employee/homeowner could garner himself. We suggest ordering the appraisals ASAP and then rigorously comparing the buy-out figure with the expected net from traditional marketing efforts.

“My home has been on the market for a while with many showings but no offers.” Remove the home from the market and restore it to crème puff status.

“My home is on the market but not being shown.” Adjust the price to market.

“The only offer I have received has been ridiculous.” Analyze recent comps very closely to re-calibrate market price for your property. Perhaps the buyer really wants your home but is testing your resolve to sell.

Columnists write on topics of their own choice, and their views do not necessarily reflect those of Kentlands Dot Us. If you would like to write for Kentlands Dot Us, contact us at [email protected]

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Commentary

Commentary

Monthly

Santa Claus

By Marien Helz

I always thought of Santa Claus as a cultural figure rather than a

religious one. He is associated with fun and joy and, of course, getting presents. Believing that someone could come down a chimney just to give you something, and want to give you something just because you exist, was a source of wonder.

My father always said that he had never wanted to lie to us, so he didn’t want to lie and tell us that there was a Santa Claus. He was clearly ambivalent about it, however, because he never made any effort to ensure that no one else told us the Santa stories. Naturally, we always got some presents that my mother signed as being from Santa Claus. In addition, on one Christmas he challenged us to try to prove that Santa Clause was real. He had us put a bench by the chimney with a towel and water as well as cookies and milk on it. In the morning, the food was gone, and the towel was black—he had rubbed the towel along the pipes in the basement to make it look really black as though from the chimney.

When we were adults, my sister, who became a psychiatrist, talked about her colleagues speculating that not letting children believe in Santa Claus was depriving them of having a fantasy life. She and I both felt, however, that Santa Claus was not the children’s fantasy—it was a myth told to them as

Quarterly

D.C. at Night—Photographic Essay

By Terry Brennan

Click on the pictures to

enlarge them.

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Commentary

though it were real. With my own children, I didn't want to tell them all about something that I would have to later tell them didn’t exist. I decided to get around that by saying to my daughter at her first cognizant Christmas when she was twenty-two months old that we like to pretend that Santa Claus comes down the chimney and brings presents and rides through the sky with eight reindeer. Even though she wouldn’t know what pretend meant, I felt that I could let Mr. Rogers and Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood take care of that.

A year or so later, she mentioned Santa Claus, and I asked her how Santa Claus got into the house—down the chimney? I queried. Through the door, she informed me. I advised her that the door was always locked at night, so that might be difficult. She didn’t want to talk about it.

I forgot to be as careful about the Tooth Fairy as I had about Santa, though. A friend of hers had gotten a note written by the Tooth Fairy as well as a few coins when she lost her first tooth, and, charmed by the idea, I put notes from the Tooth Fairy under my daughter’s pillow with coins as she lost her teeth. She was talking about the Tooth Fairy one day, and I got a little concerned. I asked her if the Tooth Fairy were real or if she were like Santa Claus—someone we like to make believe exists. She didn’t want to talk about it.

When I was growing up in Gaithersburg, Santa Claus appeared one night every year at our church and gave each child a box of hard candy and an orange. I remember the exact moment and the exact place when I found out that he wasn’t real. I was in the first or second grade when my mother and several other women from the church were in our dining room cutting out fabric and sewing it. My brother asked her what they were doing. When she told us that they were making a suit for Santa Claus, my brother asked why his wife couldn’t make it for him. Then she told us.

Rather than being a let-down at that moment, it was intriguing and neat—we had been let in on an adult secret. It was a discovery.

From that time on, none-the-less, some of the magic was lost from Christmas. It was never the same after Santa Claus left the land.

There were still the colored lights swaying back and forth in the wind on Frederick Avenue at the end of our street. There were the dark days with violet light and snow flakes occasionally sifting though green boughs, and all that gave a hint of the mysteries in the


Commentary

universe. The loss of the idea of Santa Claus, however, took away some of the glory. Teaching children about Santa can seem to concentrate too much on their receiving gifts and less on charity—yet that isn’t what tends to happen. The myth of Santa Claus is about someone who gives to children just for the delight of giving all children presents. It’s about the spirit of joy and acceptance, and about a night when every child is special, and there is some magic person who wants every child in the world to have presents just because every child is ... click to continue

Monthly December © 2006 Kentlands Dot Us

October © 2006 Terry Brennan

If you would like to write for Kentlands Dot Us, contact us at [email protected]




Helz

Marien Helz's Past Columns

Marien Helz is originally from Gaithersburg and began writing the Growing Up in Gaithersburg column for an HOA paper in 2003.

She published four books of poetry beginning in 1980 under her married name, and felt that when she began publishing prose articles, she needed a different pen identity, and began writing those works under her original name.

She holds a Master's degree in English and American literature from the University of Iowa, a Master of Fine of Arts degree from the world renowned Iowa Writers' Workshop [the only organization to receive the

National Humanities Medal, presented by the U.S. government in 2003], a Master's degree from the University of Buffalo Reading Specialist Program, and a PhD in English Research from the University of Buffalo.

She splits her time between the Kentlands and a classic village in the Buffalo-Niagara region of Western New York state where she is a college professor–a profession she began at the age of twenty-two. She lives with her husband, Franklyn (Lyn) Perry, and their Belgian Malinois Shepherd.

Marien Helz's past columns are available here in Adobe files. Click on the links below to access the Adobe files. If you do not have Adobe on your computer, you can download a free copy here:

● Happening September 2005● Wedding October 2005● Figurine November 2005● Gifts and Giving December 2005● Names January 2006● Moving to Gaithersburg February 2006● Children and Safety March 2006● Grave Danger―for Jonathan April 2006● Sugarloaf Mountain May 2006● Gardening June 2006● Mothers July 2006● Fathers August 2006● Real Class―True Grace September 2006● Harvest and Halloween October 2006● Trouble November 2006

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the child who is most precious. That aspect of the symbol of Santa Claus is what must be kept real forever.

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Columnists write on topics of their own choice, and their views do not necessarily reflect those of Kentlands Dot Us. If you would like to write for Kentlands Dot Us, contact us.

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Kentlands Dot Us - Viewpoints

Viewpoints

Monthly

Sharing a Fire

by Charles Miess

Towering New England white pines were prized for the masts of sailing ships in colonial times. White pine was also preferred for interior trim in early homes because of its

smooth texture and good workability. It is not, however, the greatest fuel for a campfire. It lacks the density of hardwoods and is full of resin that snaps and spits while it burns fast and furious. But the heat from dead branches of a white pine tree felt good that chilly June night in 1968. And the flickering light provided ample illumination as it danced around the roadmap we had spread

across the rocky ground. My friend Byron and I had just set up camp in Greenfield, New Hampshire on the property of his great aunt, who Byron affectionately called Aunt Greenfield. We were squatting down

and intently studying the map, each with a pencil in hand.

Our motorless ride to New Hampshire had started early that morning from our homes in the city of Boston. Perched on our three-speed English racer bicycles, we were enjoying the late spring air and the feel of rural New England. This was one of our practice trips to get in shape for a much longer journey. It was in the late afternoon, as we approached Greenfield, when I had the sense we were becoming separated in time and space from the rest of the world. For many miles now, the narrow road was deserted—no houses, no traffic—just quiet forests of birch, pine, oak, and maple. The silence was broken only by our lively

Monthly

Nuclear Power (Fusion)

by Louis P. Solomon with Dick Van Orden

In a previous column, we discussed various approaches to solving future energy problems of the United States. Now we are ready to take up the most promising solution for consideration: Nuclear power reactors for generation of electricity.

There are two types of nuclear power generation:

Nuclear Fission—The splitting of a heavy atom into smaller atoms, with the release of heat energy and two or three neutrons.

Nuclear Fusion—The combining of two light atoms, releasing large amounts of heat energy and no radiation products.

We have previously discussed the Fission option, which is well-known and is in use at the present time. Fusion, still under development after many years, is less well known and continues to be extremely difficult to initiate and run under controlled conditions.

Nuclear physics, is a complex subject, and difficult to explain in simple terms. However, we will try our best, even though we may oversimplify at times.

As we previously discussed, nuclear fission is used in a nuclear power plant to produce heat; the heat is delivered to water to produce steam, which is then used to turn a turbine generator to produce electricity, just as steam from a coal-fired, or oil-fired, or natural gas-fired plant produces steam to turn a turbine generator. A fusion reactor would perform in the same manner, but the heat is produced differently—by a fusion reaction rather

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conversation and the occasional caw of a solitary crow.

Could it have been a joke of early settlers to name this place Greenfield? Or, in the centuries since, did the forest reclaim the once open farmlands and push the settlers out? An imposing sign appeared ahead, marking what looked like a side road. It consisted of an ancient piece of weathered wood strapped with wrought iron and suspended from a teak post and beam. Much of the paint had worn away, but I could see the words Mather Estate engraved deep into the wood grain. Behind the sign, the encroaching forest had formed a canopy over the single lane road that curved off mysteriously in the distance. “This is not a road,” said Byron, “I think it’s their driveway.” It was another mile before we reached the house.

The old colonial home still held remnants of its long faded elegance. It didn’t take an architect to see that master craftsmen of long ago had built the house, guesthouse, and now-deserted stables. A stone fruit cellar protruded from the neglected grounds, yet the fieldstones still fitted perfectly and it looked to be as functional as it was a century or two before. Aunt Greenfield and her husband, Winslow, were a good match for their surroundings. Her craggy, wrinkled face still had the touch of past wealth and good breeding. Winslow had the air of a gentleman, but his pallid face was just plump enough to push out the wrinkles that were surely hidden there. They graciously invited us into their home.

The dinner table was set, and a goblet of cold sparkling beer had already been placed beside each plate. We sat and talked of our trip while they listened in rapt attention. They seemed to be grateful for this welcome reprieve from their lonely existence. When our thirst was quenched, Aunt Greenfield’s aged hand picked up a small bell next to her plate and rang it with a genteel flick of her wrist. Instantly, a maid not much younger than her entered through the Dutch doors from the kitchen. “May we have our salads now, Anna,” said Aunt Greenfield softly. The bell ringing was repeated for each course of the meal and each time Anna responded as if she stood waiting at attention behind that closed door.

We retired to the parlor after dinner, where Anna brought brandy and, if we chose, a cigar. Dusty portraits of 18th and 19th century sea captains blended with the

than a fission reaction—as might be presumed from its title.

Nuclear fusion is inherently different from nuclear fission. In the fission reactor we split the uranium atoms, and regulated the rate of splitting by using control rods. These rods slow down the fission process by absorbing excess neutrons thus keeping them from causing other atoms to split and produce heat in excess of the heat needed. A nuclear fission reaction is self sustaining, and controllable. However, the physics of nuclear fusion is different.

The process of generating a sustained fusion reaction that can be used for power generation has not yet been achieved. It requires large amounts of energy to initiate a nuclear fusion because the repulsive forces (protons) of the atoms must be overcome. Once the repulsion is overcome, the energy of the combining atoms far exceeds the energy required to force them together, hence it is a beneficial process to generate heat energy. Once the fusion is initiated, there must be enough heat energy to continue to force nuclei together in order to sustain the reaction. Our sun and our stars are examples of a nuclear fusion reaction.

Since hydrogen has only one proton, it has the smallest repulsion force that must be overcome, hence the fuel used in a typical fusion reactor is hydrogen. Two hydrogen ions “fuse” into a helium atom with the generation of high speed neutrons. This fusion process produces heat, far more than was required to start the fusion, and enough to sustain the fusion reaction, if properly controlled.

One of the first steps in building such a reactor is to create a “plasma” (a fourth form of matter, after gas, liquid, and solid). When a gas is heated to very high temperatures (several million degrees Kelvin) all the atoms lose all their electrons. This collection of nuclei and free electrons exist in a state that is known as a plasma.

Some technical issues are how to hold the plasma. This is achieved by using very strong and focused magnetic fields. The magnetic fields are difficult to build, and they must be very strong. They have to hold the hot, dense plasma long enough for the nuclei to fuse and the reaction to be sustained.

The coupling of the plasma and the magnetic fields is a very complex system. This world-wide research has been continuing unabated for over 40 years. The United States has been focusing on fusion



dark walls, as did those of their ladies in graceful dresses. An oil of a full masted ship on a stormy sea hung over the stone fireplace. We spoke of sailing vessels, long forgotten voyages, lighthouses, and widow’s walks. Winslow reminisced in detail of his family’s historic and nostalgic bond with the sea. But there was no mention of the darker side of this household. For you see, Winslow James Mather had blood flowing through his veins from an ancestor of sinister reputation—as did my friend and riding companion, Byron. Each was a direct descendent of Cotton Mather—the Puritan clergyman ... click to continue

December © 2006 Kentlands Dot Us

reactor development, in partnership with the Russians, the Europeans, and the Japanese. There has been amazing success, with results approximately one million times better than only 20 years ago. Plasma fusion regularly is achieved, but not quite long enough to have a sustained reaction. That is clearly coming.

What is so wonderful about fusion reactors is that the fuel used is water. Any kind of water, including sea water, grey water (sewer output), contaminated water from industrial uses, etc, will serve as the fuel. The water can be used to generate hydrogen, which then becomes fuel for a nuclear fusion reactor. The results of the reaction are heat, steam, helium, and hot water. There are no radioactive products.

Electrical power is ...click to continue

December © 2006 Kentlands Dot Us

Columnists write on topics of their own choice, and their views do not necessarily reflect those of Kentlands Dot Us . If you would like to write for Kentlands Dot Us , contact us at [email protected]





Miess

Charles Miess's Past Columns

Charles Miess is the Contributions Editor of Kentlands Dot Us and an Editor as well regular columnist for Word Worth–World Magazine of Ideas and the Arts. One of his first columns on Word Worth, "A Journey into Darkness," was the recipient of the Grand Award for Excellence in Writing–a distinguished award indeed. The Apex judges had this to say about Miess's column: "What a beautiful story, riveting, with powerful imagery and a warm, inviting style that draws you in and won't let you go. A marvelous example of wordcraft."

Miess won a second Apex Award for "The Robbery," a column that appeared in Word Worth in 2004.

In addition to many activities involving his devotion to excellence in writing, Miess is a Senior Reliability Engineer for an international air and space company.

Charles Miess's past column is available here in Adobe files. Click on the links below to access the Adobe files. If you do not have Adobe on your computer, you can download a free copy here:

● Geeks and the Piano Man December 2005● African Gold February 2006● African Gold II March 2006● The Water Glass April 2006● Low Tide May 2006● Superlatives Grow as the Standards Go July 2006

who actively persecuted the “witches” during the Salem witch trials of 1692.

The campfire had burned down to a pile of glowing coals. It was

difficult to see the uncertain markings that we added across the map since we had set up camp in Aunt Greenfield’s woods several hours before. Still visible in the waning firelight, however, was a bold circle around Boston, Massachusetts on one side of the map, and a prominent X over San Diego, California on the other side. I folded the map and walked to the bicycles that were leaning against a tree near our small lightweight tent. I opened the canvass saddlebag and carefully tucked the map inside. Tomorrow’s eighty-mile return to Boston was to be the last of our endurance training. I ran my fingers with satisfaction over the new tread on the narrow rear tire of my bicycle. “I think we’ll be ready to go next week,” I said.

Columnists write on topics of their own choice, and their views do not necessarily reflect those of Kentlands Dot Us . If you would like to write for Kentlands Dot Us, contact us.

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Kentlands Dot Us Viewpoints - Solomon

Louis Solomon's Past Columns

We are pleased to present viewpoint columns by Louis P. Solomon.

Most of Louis Solomon's career was spent in the military-industrial community working on anti-submarine systems. He has also taught at the university level and founded the firm, Planning Systems. His current interests include co-authoring books of fiction and non-fiction. Solomon holds an MS degree in Aero/Astro from MIT and a BA and PhD in Engineering from UCLA.

Solomon is an avid amateur small boat sailor and cruises his sailboat, Dream Maker, on the Chesapeake Bay and up and down the East Coast. He lives in the Kentlands with his wife, Leslie Marks.

Louis Solomon's past columns are available here in Adobe files. Click on the links below to access the Adobe files. If you do not have Adobe on your computer, you can download a free copy here:

● The Birth of a Column June 2005● Concepts of Responsibility and Courtesy July 2005● Living with Gusto August 2005● The Rise and Fall of Organizations September 2005● The Real Issue in Dealing with Katrina October 2005● Some Comments on the Supreme Court November 2005● Confusion: Mine December 2005● Working as Catharsis January 2006● Government Eavesdropping February 2006● Government Eavesdropping―How They Do It March 2006● The Coming Catastrophe―Our Helplessness and Our Response April 2006● The National Anthem May 2006● Alternative Power Sources with Dick Van Orden June 2006● The Energy Problem with Dick Van Orden July 2006● Nuclear Power (Fission) with Dick Van Orden August 2006● Hydrogen and its Uses with Dick Van Orden September 2006● Fuel Cells with Dick Van Orden October 2006● The Ultimate Automobile with Dick Van Orden November 2006

...continued from the Viewpoints page:

clean and safe. The methods of generating electrical power are still based upon the burning of petrochemicals and coal, producing the attendant carbon dioxide and other waste products. Nuclear fusion power is essentially inexhaustible and environmentally very friendly. But, we aren’t quite there yet.

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Kentlands Dot Us Viewpoints - Solomon

Columnists write on topics of their own choice, and their views do not necessarily reflect those of Kentlands Dot Us . If you would like to write for Kentlands Dot Us, contact us at [email protected]

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Kentlands Dot Us News

News

Click here for the Gaithersburg Holiday Giving Brochure

The brochure is in a pdf file and will let you know how you can be of help to those in need for Thanksgiving and the December holidays.

Gaithersburg Police Chief Viverette Announces Retirement

Gaithersburg, MD. Mary Ann Viverette has announced her retirement after 27 years in the City of Gaithersburg Police Department, 20 of those as Chief of Police. Her retirement will take effect May 18,

2007.

“I am proud that I have played at least a small part in developing Gaithersburg and our policing programs to the accredited status we enjoy today,” said Chief Viverette in her letter of announcement to City Manager David Humpton.

“Working with a team of dedicated officers over the past two decades, Chief Viverette has developed and implemented creative and effective programs to better serve the citizens of Gaithersburg,” said Mayor Sidney Katz. “A commitment to excellence will be her legacy.”

Mary Ann Viverette joined the Gaithersburg Police Department in 1979, holding all ranks until her appointment as Chief of Police in 1986. Gaithersburg has seen its force grow from a complement of three sworn officers and one civilian clerk when it was formed in the early 1970’s to a staff of over 50 today.

An FBI Academy graduate, Chief Viverette became the first female elected to the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) board of directors in 1999. In October of 2006 she completed her term as president of IACP, serving as an international ambassador for the oldest and largest law enforcement leadership organization with over 20,000 members worldwide.

Under Chief Viverette’s leadership, the Gaithersburg Police Department has been nationally accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) since 1993, meeting or exceeding an internationally-embraced body of more than 400 individual standards covering everything from agency management to personnel issues to the delivery of law enforcement.

Among Chief Viverette’s many accomplishments are her commitment to outfitting the Gaithersburg Police Department with the most advanced tools and equipment and her insistence that the Gaithersburg Police Department be a partner in all aspects of community outreach. Today Gaithersburg Police are actively involved in such programs as National Night Out Against Crime, Adopt-a-School, Neighborhood Watch, child fingerprinting and safety seat inspections, Operation Lifesaver rail safety,

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and PROS (Police Reaching Out to Students).

“A strong sense of commitment to the community in which she lives and works has paved the way for our Police Department to become an integral partner in creative outreach programs,” said City Manager Dave Humpton. “She has focused much of her energy on building bridges between the Police Department and local businesses, organizations, individuals and neighborhoods, helping to make Gaithersburg a great place to live.”

City Manager Humpton stated that he will begin working with other staff shortly in the search for a new Chief of Police. For additional information please contact the City Manager’s Office at 301-258-6310.

Arts Barn Hosts “The Best of Broadway: Overtures and Finales”

Gaithersburg, MD. The “Best of Broadway,” presented by the City of Gaithersburg in partnership with KAT 2nd Stage, is back with a musical production spotlighting “Overtures and Finales.” Five evening performances will be held at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, December 1, 2, 8, 9, and 15 at the Gaithersburg Arts Barn, 311 Kent Square Road. Admission is $14 for City residents and $16 for nonresidents.

In the world of theatre, the overture lures the audience into the mystique of song and sound. It serves as the largest orchestral work at the beginning of a musical, sometimes sung, but more often played instrumentally. An overture functions as a beginning or “jump off” point for the musical to come. Classics like “Tonight” from West Side Story and “On the Street Where You Live” from My Fair Lady feature romantic overtures to set the mood. Overtures can also mark the beginnings of a partnership like in “Matchmaker” from Fiddler on the Roof.

Corresponding to such grandiose beginnings, it is equally as important for musicals to contain memorable finales. Tragic closures as well as happy endings outline the silhouettes of concluding numbers, such as “I Can See It” from the Fantasticks and “Empty Chairs at Empty Tables” from Les Miserables. Working in harmony, the balance of these two elements pull together varied treasures, composing an exciting musical revue.

Come enjoy an evening featuring overtures and finales from the best and most famous Broadway musicals. The anthology of musicals will range from humorous to heartbreaking, while covering everything in between.

For information and ticket purchase call 301-258-6394, or purchase tickets online using RecXpress at www.gaithersburgmd.gov.

Children’s Repertory Theatre at Arts Barn Includes “The Snow Queen” and “The Nutcracker”

Gaithersburg, MD. The City of Gaithersburg in partnership with Classika Theatre presents a Winter Children’s Repertory of “The Nutcracker” and “The Snow Queen” December 2 through December 31 at the Gaithersburg Arts Barn, 311 Kent Square Road, Gaithersburg, MD. Tickets are $12 for residents and $14 for non-residents. For more information and ticket purchase, please call 301-258-6394 or purchase tickets online using RecXpress at www.gaithersburgmd.gov.

The shows will take place on Saturdays and Sundays throughout December. “The Nutcracker” will be presented at 11 a.m. while “The Snow Queen” will be presented at 2 p.m. Additional performances of the Nutcracker are scheduled for 11 a.m. Tuesday, December 26 through Friday, December 29. Note that there are no performances on December 24.



The original tale of “The Snow Queen” by Hans Christian Anderson comes to the stage in this charming production directed by Carrie Klewin. The story revolves around two friends, Gerda and Kai, who are separated by the evil Snow Queen. The holiday fable follows Gerda on her quest to save Kai from an icy fate. Through her travels characters come and go, but the true message of friendship lingers on.

The classic “Nutcracker” ballet by E.T.A. Hoffman transforms into a magical production adapted by Inna Shapiro and Lilia Slavova. The story of Clara and her nutcracker, directed by Lilia Slavova, comes to life with both actors and beautiful puppets made by Ksenya Litvak. In addition to the elegant sets, the glorious score by Peter Tchaikovsky preserves old touches to an updated version of a beloved winter tale.

Arts Barn Gallery Presents Oils, Pastels by Dawson, Jewelry by Andrews-Barry

Gaithersburg, MD. The City of Gaithersburg presents the oil and pastel paintings of Todd Baxter Dawson and an exhibit of jewelry by Lynda Andrews-Barry at the Gaithersburg Arts Barn, 311 Kent Square Road in Gaithersburg, MD. The exhibit runs from December 1, 2006 through January 15, 2007, with an opening reception on Thursday, December 7 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Viewing hours are 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, and 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Todd Baxter Dawson earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the Philadelphia College of Art, following foundational studies at the Cleveland Institute of Art. He has studied with notable portrait painters Daniel Greene and Burt Silverman and is a past member of the Portrait Society of America. An award-winning veteran of local groups such as the Rockville Art League, the Olney Art League, and a frequent exhibitor at the Women’s Club of Chevy Chase, Mr. Dawson most recently participated in the First Annual Riverbend Plein Air Painting Competition in Great Falls, Virginia, where he won an Honorable Mention award.

Lynda Andrews-Barry is a full-time studio artist working from her home in Kensington, Maryland. A graduate of Mount Vernon College in Washington, DC with a degree in interior design and historic preservation, Ms. Andrews-Barry honed her metalsmithing skills at the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore. “During my daily walks with my dogs, I collect flowers, weeds, seeds, pods and other interesting natural and found objects,” said Ms. Andrews-Barry. “I electroform my finds in copper or cast them in sterling silver and then assemble jewelry from the new metal parts, adding textures, patinas and sometimes oil paint to create jewelry inspired by nature.”

For more information please call Andi Rosati, Arts Barn Director, at 301-258-6394 or visit the City’s website at www.gaithersburgmd.gov.




Kentlands Dot Us Contact kentlands.us website

Our Townes

The Kentlands is a neo-traditional community—one that harkens back to 19th century villages in design and concept. It exists, however, as a homeowners association which is an entity that functions to some extent as a town within a town. Kentlands is a part of the city of Gaithersburg to which it owes its unique character as well as its existence.

Gaithersburg Officials

Gaithersburg operates under the council-manager form of municipal government, with the City Manager being appointed by the City Council. The Mayor and City Council are elected to staggered four-year terms, and the

Mayor serves as Council President.

Mayor Sidney A. Katz

Council V. P. John B. Schlichting

Council Member Stanley J. Alster

Council Member Geri Edens

Council Member Henry F.Marraffa, Jr

Council Member Michael A. Sesma

● Gaithersburg Governance Information ● Gaithersburg Events & Activities:

The Mayor and City Council meet the first and third Mondays at 7:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chamber, 31 S. Summit Ave. They also conduct work sessions on alternate Mondays and other evenings.

Gaithersburg was selected as Number 17 in Money Magazine's 2005 list of the 100 best places to live. Money states: "MONEY magazine and CNN/Money spent months looking for Great American Towns -- where you would want to raise your children and celebrate life's milestones."

Gaithersburg Ranked Second Among “Best Places to Raise Your Family”

Once again Gaithersburg has been recognized as one of the top cities in America. Confirming what is well known by the people who call Gaithersburg home, the travel guide publisher Frommer’s has ranked Gaithersburg as second best in the nation in it’s newly released book "Best Places to Raise Your Family: The Top 100 Affordable Communities in the U.S."

“I often say that I have the honor of being the Mayor of the greatest City in the world,” said Mayor Sidney Katz. “We know that we could not have achieved this recognition without active and involved citizens, local businesses and our partners at the County and State level, coupled with a dedicated staff,” continued Mayor Katz.

City Manager David Humpton added, “We have so many partners that help make Gaithersburg such a family-friendly place, from volunteers involved on our City committees, to elected officials at all levels. We all work together – including the hundreds of employees in all the different City departments – to help make Gaithersburg such a great community.”

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"Best Places to Raise Your Family” authors Bert Sperling and Peter Sander used research on the standard of living, education, health and safety, lifestyle and population profiles to develop their rankings as well as the “feel” and character of each city. Gaithersburg was highlighted for its attractive setting, educational and recreation opportunities and strong economy. Gaithersburg was listed as second behind Louisville, Colorado.

This is the City’s second outstanding national ranking. In July of 2005 Money Magazine/CNN Money placed Gaithersburg, Maryland seventeenth in the nation on the list of “Best Places to Live.”

For more information please contact the office of the City Manager at 301-258-6310 or [email protected].

Kentlands Trustees:

KCA President Neil Harris

Picture to follow

Board Chair Robyn Renas

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Board Vice Chair Frank Anderson

Thomas Marchessault Secretary

Robert Randolph Treasurer

Gwen Love sent the following letter of resignation to the board at the time of the organizational meeting:

To: KCA Board of Trustees, President

Congratulations to Frank Anderson, Robyn Renas and Neil Harris on their election and thanks to them all for stepping up to the plate to serve. I wish them much success and am confident that they will do a

fine job for Kentlands.

I am very excited about our new leadership team and do not want anything to take away from pulling our community together and moving forward for the benefit of all. It is impossible for me to sit at the table with some Board members who knowingly withheld critical information regarding the districting plan from me and the community prior to the recent elections...

Thus, after careful consideration, I submit my resignation from the KCA Board of Trustees effective immediately.

Gwenda J. Love

Click here for Kentlands Citizen Assembly Information

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Kentlands Letters to the Editor

Letters to the Editor

KDU invites you to write to us with your thoughts, opinions, and responses to items we have published. We reserve the right to edit letters for length and content. We must have your full name and location, but, upon request, we will not publish your name if you provide a sufficient reason.

We discontinued our forum because we know of at least six forums (or fora for the classicists among us) and all are being under-used. We thank the more than one hundred people who signed up and especially thank Rick and Nancy who agreed to moderate for us and Tom who helped us with design work. The contributions to the forum are now archived and accessible at the bottom of this page.

Instead of the forum, we will print comments and responses below.

December

Personal to the man with the broken nose: Get well soon and keep your sledge hammers stored on a low shelf.

November

Dear Editor:

El Ad has sold to individual owners at least 3 or more parking spaces I know of designated as reserved for handicapped. The city of Gaithersburg is looking into the legality of this. The Gaithersburg police know this because they ticketed the car of the owner of one of the spaces. However I understand that the police cancelled the ticket when she proved she had a legal handicapped sticker and/or documented her ownership of the space to them. These handicapped spaces continue to be designated (and presumably still count to satisfy the requirements of the building permit documents filed with the City of Gaithersburg Planning Department); however they are NOT available to handicapped persons. I know, because the owner of one of the spaces almost had my car towed (I had a handicapped hang tag, properly displayed). I was not aware that I was improperly parked, because I have never been denied the right to park in a handicapped space anywhere at any time, and I had used that very same space everyday since October of 2005 except when I was out of town. If this turns out to be a violation of the law this practice could possibly create a real legal issues and financial problems for the individual condo owners after El Ad sells out, and the individual condo owners have to take over responsibility for the Condo HOA We need to know where we, the individual condo owners, stand as to the legally of this issue.

Wm Wilson Colonnade

June

file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/All%20Users/...CTUATED/Kentlands%20Webs/KDUDecember06/letters.htm (1 of 2)12/20/2006 6:57:58 PM

MJHP

Text Box

Kentlands Letters to the Editor

May 2006 Letters November 2005 Letters Forum Introduction Comments From Readers on Beginning of KDU How and Why We Began Great to See the Forum The Curious Club Olde Towne Charrette

Charrette: Parking Ramps KCA Elections KCA Changes Safety Issues Craig List




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