Silverspringgaz 011514

&

ON THE MOVE

Ohio dance troupe visits for Strathmore choreographer’s big night. B-5

The Gazette SILVER SPRING | TAKOMA PARK | BURTONSVILLE

DAILY UPDATES ONLINE www.gazette.net

Wednesday, January 15, 2014

25 cents

Capital budget to focus on schools, roads

Waddle this way

n

Budget outlines proposed six-year spending plan BY

RYAN MARSHALL STAFF WRITER

Montgomery County would pour hundreds of millions of dollars into the White Flint area to promote private growth and redevelopment around the Metro station under a fiscal year 2015 capital budget proposed by County Executive Isiah Leggett.

Almost $340 million of public money will be dedicated to generating private investment of even more money in White Flint, according to a draft copy of the proposed budget provided to The Gazette.

The six-year capital improvement plan features plans to construct a new road and bike lane on the area’s Main/Market Street, reconfiguring Executive Boulevard North and reconfiguring the intersection of Old Georgetown Road, Executive Boulevard and Hoya Street.

The project includes $170

million in county funding for road projects on Montrose Parkway East and Chapman Avenue Extended and relocating the White Flint Fire Station to promote redevelopment in the area.

The Montrose Parkway East portion will build a new road to connect with the existing Montrose Parkway/Rockville Pike interchange to Viers Mill Road.

There are also plans to build a new parking garage for a conference center in the area to combine with future retail space and areas for affordable housing.

The White Flint plans are part of a $4.4 billion capital improvement plan Leggett is scheduled to share with the council on Wednesday.

The capital improvement plan finances construction projects such as schools, roads and infrastructure.

Funding for schools is a major part of Leggett’s proposed plan, as Montgomery County Public Schools attempts to deal

See BUDGET, Page A-10

Leggett not yet backing a candidate in governor’s race County executive said he respects, has ties to all three top contenders n

TOM FEDOR/THE GAZETTE

Despite unseasonably warm weather Monday, Noah Mallory Sorenson Bowen, 3, of Silver Spring gets in some quality rink time with his father, Mallory Bowen, at Veterans Plaza in Silver Spring. Temperatures are forecast to return to more January-like levels later this week and this weekend.

BY

ANDREW SCHOTZ STAFF WRITER

Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett — one of the region’s highest-stature Democrats — is standing clear of his party’s gubernatorial primary, for now.

In a race among Lt. Gov. Anthony G. Brown, Attorney General Douglas F. Gansler and Del. Heather R. Mizeur (Dist.

20) of Takoma Park for this year’s Democratic nomination, Leggett said Friday that he hasn’t decided whom to support.

The primary will be held June 24. The general election will be Nov. 4.

Gov. Martin O’Malley (D) is finishing his second term, the maximum allowed in Maryland.

Asked during a meeting with Gazette reporters and editors if he had an allegiance in the

Last call for Silver Spring liquor store n

County closing the only outlet it doesn’t run BY

ALINE BARROS STAFF WRITER

Montgomery County is getting ready to close the last liquor store it doesn’t operate.

The store at Flower Avenue Shopping Center in Silver Spring, which had been subcontracted to Bill Haberli, will close Jan. 31 when his contract expires.

County officials said a new wine and liquor store managed and operated by county employees will soon open at the vacant space next to the Bank of America

branch on Flower Avenue.

Haberli said he still had not heard anything “officially” from the county, but county officials said Haberli was “well aware” of the store’s closing date.

“We gave him as much time as possible,” said George F. Griffin, director of the Montgomery County Department of Liquor Control.

Griffin explained that Haberli’s contract was established in 1994 as part of a county experiment to subcontract the county’s liquor stores. In the program, the county still owned the inventory, paid rent and utilities, and set product prices. Subcontractors had only to hire staff and operate the store.

The Maryland General Assembly passed a bill in 1997 that prohibited the county from subcontracting its liquor stores, but it grandfathered in its existing contracts.

“We could only keep the contracts as long as it was in place ... Once the contract was up it was up,” Griffin said.

County officials said Haberli’s original three-year contract allowed to him to file for up to four renewals. It was renewed in 1997 for four more years and in 2001 for an extra five years. Harbeli then got the contract renewed in 2006, 2009 and 2011. It finally expired on Jan. 31, 2013.

See STORE, Page A-10

NEWS

SPORTS

A Briggs Chaney Middle School teacher charged with assaulting co-workers.

Northwood punter/lineman suffers complications after a season of playing football with torn ACL.

A-4

B-1

TEACHER CHARGED WITH ASSAULT

PLAYING THROUGH INJURY

Automotive Business Calendar Classified Entertainment Opinion School News Sports Please

race, Leggett said: “I have none at this point. I’ll tell you why. I hope and I anticipate that I may endorse at some point in the future, but I’m not sure.

“I’m very close to Heather, very close to Doug, who I’ve worked with on a number of projects. They’re local Montgomery County residents. I know Anthony very well. I support a great deal of what he’s done.

“We are fortunate to have several good candidates. I have not found a justification as to how to make a distinction between one or the other at this point in time. I talk to them a great deal and it’s my intent, and I hope to at some point, to make an endorsement, but at this point, not yet.”

Brown was the first to release a list of elected officials in Maryland who back his campaign, including both U.S. senators and four U.S. representatives.

Maryland House Speaker Mi-

See LEGGETT, Page A-10

B-14 A-11 A-2 B-11 B-5 A-14 A-12 B-1

RECYCLE

Check out our Services Directory ADVERTISING INSIDE B SECTION

1906227

THE GAZETTE

Page A-2

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

PEOPLE& PLACES More online at www.gazette.net

ALINE BARROS

Decades later, daughter helps honor father Sometimes a daughter knows best.

Brigitte Shoff of Silver Spring had always heard about the medal her father had earned after serving in the Vietnam War. Still, Shoff had never seen the medal, so she asked him if he had ever received it.

He said no.

But on Jan. 2, Army Brig. Gen. Jeffrey Clark, commander of Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, pinned the Silver Star — the military’s thirdhighest decoration for valor — onto the blazer of retired Army Warrant Officer George Carlton Bloodworth.

Shoff said that the end of the war in 1975 was so turbulent that her father never tried to get the medal.

“Things were very chaotic,” she said. “He transferred several times and he just didn’t talk about it.”

After reading a letter from the Army Department citing her father’s award, she contacted the office of Rep. Christopher Van Hollen Jr. (D-Dist. 8) of Kensington for assistance.

Van Hollen’s staff contacted the Army and the award ceremony was scheduled when Bloodworth, who lives in Georgia, came to visit his daughter during the holidays last month.

Bloodworth piloted one of the two helicopters conducting a reconnaissance mission in northwest of Cao Lanh on Sept. 20, 1969. One of the helicopters was shot down and despite imminent danger, Bloodworth kept searching for its crew.

He was wounded by ground fire, shot in the arm and back, but he managed to find the two soldiers on the ground and eventually helped them to safety.

The Army letter, dated June.

20, 1970, reads: “Warrant Officer Bloodworth distinguished himself by exceptionally valor actions ...

Although seriously wounded, he

GALLERY

Springbrook’s Isiah Eisendorf (left) contains Sherwood’s Ellis Dozier in a Friday night basketball matchup. Go to clicked.Gazette.net.

SPORTS Check online for coverage of indoor track championships, top basketball games.

For more on your community, visit www.gazette.net

PHOTO FROM OFFICE OF REP. CHRISTOPHER VAN HOLLEN JR.

Brigitte Shoff of Silver Spring pins the Silver Star onto the blazer of her father, retired Army Warrant Officer George Carlton Bloodworth, during ceremony last month at the Rockville office of U.S. Rep. Christopher Van Hollen Jr. (third from left). continued to engage the enemy until his comrades, one of whom was seriously wounded, reached the pick up zone.”

Shoff said her father dedicated himself to the military life. During the award ceremony, he spoke of many others who did much more than he did.

“I wanted to do it for my father,” Shoff said of getting the medal. “He is always doing things for other people. He just did what a hero does.”

Silver Spring volunteer honored with cruise Theresa Testoni of Silver Spring is one of 50 volunteers selected to board the Cabot Community Celebrity Cruise for an all-expensepaid vacation to the Caribbean this week.

The trip and awards program are organized by Cabot Creamery, a Vermont cooperative that produces cheese, yogurt, sour cream and butter, to honor people from across

EVENTS OASIS Men’s 50+ Discussion Group, 10:30 a.m.-noon, White Oak

Community Center, 1700 April Lane, Silver Spring. $10. www.oasisnet.org/ washington.

Inova blood drive, 2:30-7 p.m., Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, 18131 Slade School Road, Sandy Spring. 301-570-7081.

Wheaton Neighborhood Watch meeting, 8-9 p.m., Wheaton Library,

large conference room, 11701 Georgia Ave., Wheaton. Free. 240-274-3233.

THURSDAY, JAN. 16 Writing a Successful Business Plan,

1-4 p.m., Rockville Economic Development, 95 Monroe St., Rockville. $25.

301-315-8096.

The Fiscal Picture for Montgomery County in 2014, 7-9 p.m., County

the nation who have made a difference in their community.

According to Cabot website, Testoni, vice president of the Corporate Volunteer Council of Montgomery County, supports the coordination of 12 Workforce for Good projects. Community service has been an integral part of Testoni’s life, starting in high school as a member of the school government, newspaper and recycling club. In college, Testoni was a member of the College Center Board and newspaper.

Testoni, who works for Adventist HealthCare of Gaithersburg, was a pioneer in establishing the Metropolitan Washington, D.C., Volunteer Program and was liaison for the Oracle and Special Olympics partnership, according to Cabot.

She also promotes community engagement in Montgomery County and created the advisory committee of business and nonprofits to celebrate Community Service Day. The Caribbean cruise includes stops in Barbados, St. Lucia, An-

BestBet

Send items at least two weeks in advance of the paper in which you would like them to appear. Go to calendar.gazette.net and click on the submit button.

Questions? Call 301-670-2070.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 15

A&E Strathmore hosts a tribute to Martin Luther King Jr.

Council Office Building, fifth-floor conference room, 100 Maryland Ave., Rockville. Free. 301-320-5863.

FRIDAY, JAN. 17 Stand-up comedy, 8 p.m., VisArts,

155 Gibbs St., Rockville. $20. 540-6578811.

SATURDAY, JAN. 18 Glenfield Park Clean-Up, 9 a.m.noon, 12800 Layhill Road, Silver Spring. Free. henry.coppola@montgomeryparks.org.

Plant Clinic, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Freshfarm Market, Ellsworth Drive between Georgia and Fenton avenues, Silver Spring. Free. 301-590-9650.

Chinese Lion Dance, noon-12:45 p.m., Marilyn J. Praisner Library, 14910 Old Columbia Pike, Burtonsville. Free.

240-773-9460.

MON

20

Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, 10 a.m.-noon,

Silver Spring Civic Building, 1 Veterans Place, Silver Spring.

Free. 240-777-2600.

MORE INTERACTIVE CALENDAR ITEMS AT WWW.GAZETTE.NET Peter Mayer concert, 7-9:30 p.m.,

Rockville United Church, 355 Linthicum St., Rockville. $20. 301-424-6733.

SUNDAY, DEC. 19 Instrumental, 3:30 p.m., Sandy Spring Museum, 17901 Bentley Road, Sandy Spring. $23 for general admission, $10 for students. 301-774-0022.

True Stories, 4:30 p.m., Tikvat Israel Synagogue, 2200 Baltimore Road, Rockville. $13. 301-762-7338.

MONDAY, JAN. 20 Ninja Day Camp, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Kang’s Black Belt Academy, 17810

ConsumerWatch

tigua, St.Maarten and St. Thomas before returning to Puerto Rico.

What are some tips to avoid getting burned when buying firewood?

YMCA mentoring program seeks volunteers YMCA Youth and Family Services has joined forces with Montgomery County to encourage residents to volunteer with one child one hour per week in a mentoring program.

The initiative, called “One for One,” was announced Jan. 6 by Circuit Court Judge Richard Jordan, Agnes Leshner, director of county child welfare services, and Carson Henry, executive director of YMCA Youth and Family Services .

According to a news release, the county suffers from a severe shortage of mentors and, for every child matched with a caring volunteer, there are several more waiting for the benefits provided by the relationship.

For more information, call 301587-5700.

Meeting House Road, Sandy Spring. $75 per child. 301-570-1106.

Hands-on Exploration Day Camp, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Sandy Spring Museum, 17901 Bentley Road, Sandy Spring. $60 per child, $20 for aftercare. 301-7740022.

Parenting Teens Support Group, 6:30-7:30 p.m., 11307 Rokeby Ave., Garrett Park. Free. 301-466-1637.

TUESDAY, JAN. 21 Take to the Air, 1-2 p.m., Brookside Nature Center, 1400 Glenallan Ave., Wheaton. $6. Register at www.parkpass.org.

Loss of Child Support Group, 6:30-8 p.m., Montgomery Hospice, 1355 Piccard Drive, Rockville. Free. 301-9214400.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 22 Lunch and Discover Retirement Living, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Ingleside at

King Farm, 701 King Farm Blvd., Rockville. Free. 240-499-9019.

Parent Loss Support Group, 6:30-8 p.m., Woodside United Methodist Church, 8900 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring. Free. 301-921-4400.

1912499

1912504

Liz turns up the heat to dig out the truth.

LIZ CRENSHAW

WeekendWeather FRIDAY

48

SATURDAY

28

36

26

SUNDAY

41

25

Get complete, current weather information at

NBCWashington.com

GAZETTE CONTACTS The Gazette – 9030 Comprint Court Gaithersburg, MD 20877 Main phone: 301-948-3120 Circulation: 301-670-7350

DEATHS Marga Anne Laboy Marga Anne Laboy, 73, of Gaithersburg, died Jan. 7, 2014. A memorial service will take place at 10 a.m. Jan. 17 at Peoples Community Church, 31 Norwood Road, Silver Spring.

CORRECTIONS A Jan. 8 story about a Silver Spring land swap that’s part of the Progress Place Project misstated the number of apartments that will be created.

There will be 21.

A Jan. 8 story misidentified Eric Bernard, who is the executive director of the Montgomery County Volunteer Fire-Rescue Association. Marcine Goodloe is the association’s president. Also, the association, not the county, received grants to help bolster volunteer firefighter recruitment.

THE GAZETTE

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

Page A-3

LOCAL Starr proposes to pay Rock Terrace students Lower voting age in

Takoma Park sparks interest in other cities

MCPS would use W-2 information, flat fees

n

BY

LINDSAY A. POWERS STAFF WRITER

Councilman who pushed for local change says other parts of U.S. are interested n

BY

SARAH SCULLY STAFF WRITER

2013 FILE PHOTO

Administrators have devised a plan to pay more than 100 work-study students at Rock Terrace School in Rockville. paid an amount based on information generated through the school system’s payroll system.

Looking at W-2 forms that were available from 2006 onward, the school system identified about 30 students who participated in the transition program from 2006 to 2012 who would receive payments.

Of the 30 students, the school system found records of 19 who had bank accounts at the Education Systems Federal Credit Union.

About 79 W-2 forms for these students — some of whom participated in a program multiple times — include payments ranging from about $11 to more than $600.

For the last several years, students in the off-campus program have received $3.65 a day, according to Starr’s letter.

The school system is unable to tell how much money was withdrawn from these students’ bank accounts, Bowers said.

“Although some of these funds may have been withdrawn by the students and their families, I have decided to assume that all funds were withdrawn by staff and used for program purposes and that the students did not receive any of the monies,” Starr said in the letter.

For students who took part in the school’s on-campus programs — for which financial records are poor or incomplete — the school system will provide a flat payment of $200 to each student, Bowers said.

For a period between 2008 and 2010, on-campus participants’ earnings were grouped together rather than being

deposited in individual bank accounts, according to Starr’s letter. The school’s recordkeeping also made it unclear who withdrew funds or how they were used.

About 75 students who worked in these programs during that time frame would receive the flat payments, Bowers said.

In these on-campus programs — which focused on culinary arts, office skills and woodworking — students have received a variety of small payments over the years, sometimes based on the student’s grade and sometimes a flat amount per class.

Credibility issues During the school board’s Tuesday meeting, Durso asked whether it is possible the county’s investigation will generate findings that might cause the school system to “go back to the drawing board.”

Attorney Judy Bresler said that the purpose of a grand jury investigation is to look for evidence of criminal conduct and not provide an accounting history.

Durso said he thinks the plan is a good first step for the school system “to try and rectify all of this” but said he questioned whether it would be better to wait for an external investigation.

“I just think there are some credibility issues here,” he said.

The school system and the state’s attorney’s office began investigating the Rockville school after parents raised allegations that staff misappropriated funds their children

earned.

In his letter, Starr said the school system consulted a tax attorney who determined the money paid to Rock Terrace students should not be considered taxable income or wages because the primary purpose of the students’ experience was to train.

Chrisandra Richardson, associate superintendent for special education and student services, will put together a work group that will study the school system’s work-study programs and recommend whether students should continue to receive payments, according to Starr’s letter.

Starr said he anticipates he will be able to make a decision with the help of the group’s recommendations before the next school year starts.

The school system has suspended payments to students in all high school work-study programs, and Bowers said those payments will not be reinstituted this school year.

Lyda Astrove — a Rockvillebased lawyer and special-education advocate working with Rock Terrace parents — said she does not think the school used the earnings to help educate students because “they never saw the money.”

Astrove questioned Starr’s change in position and repeated her call for an external audit.

“An outside independent audit is the only way to know exactly who made what and how much was removed,” she said. lpowers@gazette.net

Since Takoma Park became the first jurisdiction in the U.S. to lower the voting age to 16, some other cities have taken interest. Those in favor say it could increase voter turnout, and the idea is becoming less of an anomaly.

Several other countries already allow those younger than 18 to vote in national elections.

In November, the first 16and 17-year-olds voted in Takoma Park city elections.

Takoma Park Councilman Tim Male, who led the effort there, said he has been contacted by several municipalities wanting to know more about how the first election including the younger teens went.

“I mean it really worked — that’s the cool thing about it,” Male said. “For a small action that benefited few people, it had a big impact.”

In a press release, Craig Merrill, a media specialist for the city, said 59 voters in the November 2013 election — which was uncontested — were 16 or 17 years old. About 119 teens that age registered to vote, the city reported at the time of the election.

Based on 2010 Census data, Male estimated the turnout rate for 16- and 17-yearolds was 17 percent, compared with an 11 percent overall rate.

Some, like Councilman Fred Schultz, opposed the change. Schultz has said that most teenagers’ minds are focused on things other than political participation.

Queries have come from local government officials from the West, Midwest, Northeast and South, including Austin, Texas. Male declined to specify other locations.

Male said Austin Mayor Lee Leffingwell organized a panel discussion on Skype with Male, Austin city staff, and a youth council.

However, Amy Everhart, the mayor’s policy director,

Do you or anyone you know need food?

The Shiloh Christian Fellowship Food Bank will be distributing food on Saturday, January 18th.

Time: 10 a.m. until 12 Noon Everyone is Welcome!

Location: 14905 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, Maryland 301-384-4531 “As God has given to us, we freely give to others.”

1912503

About seven months after parents raised concerns, Montgomery County Public Schools Superintendent Joshua P. Starr has developed a plan that could pay more than 100 students who participated in Rock Terrace School’s work-study programs.

The Rockville school serves developmentally disabled students, and a county grand jury is investigating the staff’s handling of work-study payments.

School officials and an attorney presented the plan to the county school board Tuesday along with other information about the school’s work-study programs.

The school board voted 6-1 to support the plan, though the board’s approval was not required, said Dana Tofig, a spokesman for the county school system.

School board member Michael Durso voted against the plan. Student member Justin Kim was absent.

Starr previously said the school system would wait for the conclusion of the Montgomery County State’s Attorney’s investigation, but in a Jan. 14 letter to school board members, Starr said he thinks waiting for the investigation before acting would “delay resolution of this matter indefinitely.”

In early December, the school board requested a plan from Starr.

Under his plan, the total payout by the school system will be about $30,000 to $35,000 to students who participated in the program as far back as 2006, said Larry Bowers, chief operating officer for the school system.

Bowers said Rock Terrace staff treated the money these students earned as school program funds — an interpretation school system officials does not agree with.

Similar work-study programs exist in the county’s high schools where the money earned goes to the students, Bowers said.

“It is my intent, my hope, and my belief that this plan will go a long way in restoring the parents’/guardians’ faith in the school system’s financial practices,” Starr said in the letter.

School board President Phil Kauffman said Thursday he agreed with Starr that the school system shouldn’t wait, and that it’s not certain the school system would have access to the data.

“I think we have enough information to proceed at this time,” Kauffman said.

The school system will base payments on whether students worked inside or outside the school.

Students who took part in the school’s Transition Services Unit work program — an off-campus program — will be

Notice Of Non-Discriminatory Policy As To Students

Fall/Winter Clearance Now through January 31st

25-50% OFF

Great Styles. Great Selection.

The Garrett Park, Glenbrook, Wesley, Silver Spring, Bannockburn, Bethesda, Suburban, Kensington, Chevy Chase United Methodist Church, Rockville Presbyterian, Rockville Community, Cedar Lane Cooperative Nursery Schools, Rockville Early Childhood Center and Silver Spring Day School admit students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at these schools. They do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of their educational policies, admissions policies, student-aid policies and other school-administered programs.

1890808

LADIES’ APPAREL AS UNIQUE AS YOU ARE! Fair Hill Center 18119 Town Center Dr. Olney 301.774.7171 Open: Monday-Saturday 10-7 • Sunday 12-5

1912393

1912214

1884420

said Leffingwell is not planning to pursue lowering the voting age.

Rob Richie, executive director of FairVote, a Takoma Park organization that pushed for the lower voting age, said this might be part of a larger trend to involve youth in voting worldwide.

Residents under 18 can vote in Austria, Argentina and Brazil in national elections, according to Richie. Discussions

“For a small action that benefited few people, it had a big impact.”

Takoma Park Councilman Tim Male about broadening the voter pool have arisen in Ireland, Scotland, India and England as well, he said.

More states are beginning to let younger residents vote in primaries if they will be 18 by the general election. They also can preregister at younger ages. Preregistered voters are automatically registered once they reach voting age.

Maryland, he noted, gives counties and cities greater flexibility over local voting regulations than most states, making the ruling easier to pass in Takoma Park.

Maryland residents can register beginning at age 16 and vote in primary elections if they will be 18 by the general election.

“It’s such a great secondlook issue,” Richie said. Many gawk at the idea initially, but “the more you learn about it, the more it makes sense,” he said.

In Lowell, Mass., state laws have prevented the City Council from lowering the voting age. Much of the community has supported lowering the voting age to 17 and the council has petitioned the state legislature twice unsuccessfully, according to City Solicitor Christine O’Connor. sscully@gazette.net

THE GAZETTE

Page A-4

AROUND THE COUNTY

Teacher charged with second-degree assault Man’s attorney calls charges ‘irresponsible’

n

BY

LINDSAY A. POWERS STAFF WRITER

A Briggs Chaney Middle School teacher was arrested on Jan. 8 and charged with three counts of seconddegree assault involving other school employees, according to Montgomery County police.

The assault charges stem from incidents of unwanted physical contact with three female coworkers at the Silver Spring school, police said.

“We have three victims that have come forward,” said Cpl. Rebecca Innocenti, a spokeswoman for county police.

Walter Stafon Bowman, 37, of the 4900 block of Veronica Court in Indian Head was also charged with one count of false imprisonment for allegedly holding one of the three school employees in a tight hug, Innocenti said.

He was arrested around 6:20 a.m., she said.

Kush Arora, Bowman’s attorney, said Bowman is “very, very frustrated” and surprised by the allegations.

“Mr. Bowman told me that he considered these people friends and colleagues, and he held them in great esteem,” he said.

Dana Tofig, a spokesman for Montgomery County Public Schools, said Bowman has been placed on administrative leave pending further action.

He also had been placed on administrative leave earlier this school year, Tofig said.

Tofig said no additional information is available because that was a personnel matter.

Bowman p r e viously Bowman worked at Needwood Academy in Rockville for a few months in 2009 and A. Mario Loiederman Middle School in Silver Spring from August 2012 to June 2013, Tofig said.

One female school employee reported that Bowman assaulted her twice between Aug. 26 and Aug. 29, according to police.

In the first incident, Bowman entered the employee’s office unannounced and put his hands on her shoulders. In the second incident, Bowman placed the employee in a bear hug until she was able to break free.

Another female employee said she was standing in her classroom in September when Bowman approached her from behind, crouched on the floor and touched

her ankle, according to police.

The third employee said Bowman grabbed her from behind around the waist in September, police said.

Police were speaking with school employees as part of their investigation, Innocenti said.

According to Bowman’s charging documents, police believed Bowman assaulted other people who are afraid to come forward.

The three employees and the others who have not come forward “are in fear for their safety,” according to the charging documents. The employees who have come forward have felt the need for an escort to accompany them when they needed to talk to Bowman.

“Having to work with (Bowman) on a daily basis, they are terrified that (Bowman) will further assault them,” the documents said.

Arora called the charges irresponsible, saying he thinks county police are usually better at “making sure charges are brought when appropriate.”

The county school system investigated Bowman earlier in the school year and did not find him at fault, Arora said.

“This is a matter that’s already been investigated and, in my opinion, already been put to rest,” he said.

A Jan. 8 letter posted to the school’s website from Principal Ta-

mitha Campbell alerted parents of Bowman’s arrest and placement on administrative leave.

“While these are only allegations at this point, I know this news is very upsetting,” Campbell said in the letter. “We have high expectations of professionalism for our staff in how they deal with our students and one another.”

The school also informed parents through Connect Ed, a notification service.

Detectives have been investigating Bowman since Jan. 6, when they received notice of reports that he had assaulted three female coworkers.

Innocenti said someone other than a school staff person called police about Bowman.

Bowman’s grandmother Jessie Guinyard — reached by The Gazette Jan. 8 at the home she lives in with Bowman — said she was unaware he had been arrested.

“He always been a fine person,” she said. “He has been no more than a great person.”

Guinyard said she hadn’t seen her grandson since the morning of Jan. 8, when he left around 5 a.m. to go to the school.

Detectives are asking anyone else who believes Bowman assaulted them to call 4th District investigators at 240-773-5530. lpowers@gazette.net

Man convicted of trying to kill son over land spat ‘This is for you,’ man alleged to have said before firing two shots n

BY

ST. JOHN BARNED-SMITH STAFF WRITER

A Pennsylvania man has been convicted of attempted first-degree murder for trying to kill his son over a land dispute in Silver Spring.

On Thursday, a Montgomery County jury also found 80-year-old James Russell Lewis guilty of firstdegree assault, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony or crime of violence, and burglary.

The most serious of the charges carries a penalty of up to life in prison.

Lewis faces sentencing Feb. 11.

According to prosecutors, Lewis, of Zion Church Road in Robertsdale, Penn., was consumed with anger when his mother gave four acres and a house on Ednor Road in Silver Spring to her grandson instead of to him. In 2012, the house and land were valued at $378,000, according to county land records.

Lewis listened from his wheelchair in Montgomery

County

Circuit Court on Wednesday as his son, Russell “Rusty” Eugene Lewis, 58, testified against him.

Russell testified that his father had anticipated that the land would be passed on to him.

When Russell told his father

about receiving the land instead, his father was “lost for words,” he testified.

In an argument several weeks later, James Lewis drove to Silver Spring to talk about the land with his son.

At one point while the two talked in Russell’s driveway, James Lewis put a gun he had with him on his truck’s console. Russell Lewis said in court that his father told him “I needed to fear him, because I didn’t have a clue what he was capable of.”

He dismissed the conversation as “idle threats,” he said, and traveled to St. Louis for his job as a union insulator.

During that time, according to prosecutors, James Lewis repeatedly called Russell’s aunt, who lived in the house’s basement, trying to find out if his son had returned home.

On Sept. 20, 2011, James Lewis, who was 78 at the time, went to his son’s home shortly after learning he had returned from St. Louis, prosecutors said. He took careful steps to cover his tracks, including masking the license plates of his pickup truck with red plastic and parking out of sight of the house at a nearby church, according to the prosecution.

Then, he threaded his way through a wooded area and walked to the house, using a key to let himself in. According to witnesses at trial, he did not have permission to

be in the house.

James Lewis took off his shoes and tiptoed upstairs, then stood at the foot of the couch where his son was sleeping, and pointed a gun at him, prosecutors said.

Russell Lewis woke up to hear his father say “this is for you,” before shooting at his head twice as he lay on the couch, he said.

Russell survived the shooting because, as he was waking up, he flung an arm across his face, intercepting a bullet headed straight for his forehead, prosecutors said.

Russell said he wrestled his father to the ground, took the gun, left the house, and called police.

Doctors removed the bullet lodged in his arm. The other had grazed his skull and hit a pillow on the bed.

James Lewis pleaded guilty to attempted first-degree murder in May 2012, but court records show the plea was vacated, in March 2013, online court records show.

James Lewis’s attorney, Ronald Gottlieb, argued that police did not perform crucial tests that might have been favorable to his client, such as a gunshot residue test, and that prosecutors failed to establish beyond a reasonable doubt that James Lewis was the shooter.

“Wouldn’t it be nice for them to fulfill their promise to you to prove this case beyond a reasonable doubt?” he said.

He said evidence that would have corroborated Russell Lewis’s

testimony — like blood on the bed on which he had been sleeping — was never found.

Prosecutors argued that James Lewis further implicated himself after telling police contradictory stories about the events that took place.

According to Koch, Lewis said he wanted to talk to his son about the land and he took the gun with him because he was afraid there would be a fight while they talked.

Gottlieb said the difference in stories was explained by the fact that James Lewis was “pummelled” by his son in the incident and might not have been able to remember exactly what happened.

When asked during the trial why he had a gun with him, James Lewis said he had $1,800 in his truck. He planned to talk to his son and tell him he was going to contest the deed’s transfer.

He said he masked his plates because he didn’t want his son to see his tags. He also made other statements that didn’t match, like having woken up on the floor and having seen the gun next to him, prosecutors said.

“He came in knowing exactly what he wanted to do,” Montgomery County Assistant State’s Attorney Sherri Koch argued in her closing statements, speaking of the planning James Lewis made in his plan to kill his son. sjbsmith@gazette.net

Takoma Park accepting proposals for use of lot Staff hopes for development that will support business in the area n

BY

SARAH SCULLY STAFF WRITER

Takoma Park is considering how to best use the city-owned lot at the intersection of Grant, Carroll, and Ethan Allen avenues, between the Takoma Park Silver Spring Coop and the Takoma Auto Clinic.

The city staff plans to issue a solicitation next week for proposals on how the land could be used by a private company. The solicitation will be intentionally open-ended, staff said.

“I’m hoping people use their

1912289

imagination,” Housing and Community Development Director Sara Daines said. “I think there’s a lot of room here to be creative about it.”

The city bought the 1.42 acre property - which is now a parking lot and wooded area - in 1995, with the intention of developing it.

Currently the Co-op pays the city $18,000 a year to use a portion of the site for parking, storage, trash receptacles and a loading dock.

The city has also used it for its many festivals and public events.

“It has been an amazing ad hoc business space,” Takoma Park Media Specialist Craig Terrill said.

“What we’re hoping to do is take that energy, and activities, in the space... and turn that into a lasting investment,” Daines said.

Staff said that the lot will likely be developed by a private party, since no government needs have been identify and they would like to see the space used to bolster the economy in the area. Especially with new development on the southern side of Takoma Park - including Republic and Bus Boys and Poets - staff would like to balance that with new business in the northern part of town where the lot sits. The city has not yet decided whether it plans to lease the land to another party or sell it.

“Whatever happens there will drive the rest of the changes at the junction,” said Howard Kohn, a member of the Takoma Junction Task Force.

In 2012 the Co-op submitted a proposal to use the site, but no ac-

tion was taken. Co-op Director of Marketing Greg Czech wrote in a statement that the store was considering options for expansion and working with the city to ensure parking for their customers.

Tebabu Assefa also expressed interest in the site at a council meeting on January 6, to open a coffee shop.

Interested parties will be asked to submit a concept plan outlining a vision, neighborhood benefits, a financial plan, and qualifications and experience. The council plans to review proposals and take public input over the summer and make a decision on how to use the site in September. sscully@gazette.net

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

InBrief Recreation center to reopen After a water line burst recently and damaged walls, ceilings and exercise equipment, the Gwendolyn Coffield Community Recreation Center is undergoing repairs and is expected to reopen Tuesday.

“Right now the emphasis is getting the center reopened,” said Judy Stiles, a spokeswoman with the county recreation department.

The center is at 2450 Lyttonsville Road, Silver Spring.

County honors King with service day Montgomery County will mark Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday by collecting donated food and items for the homeless at four sites.

Nonperishable food donations will go to Manna Food Center in Gaithersburg. The donation and distribution of sleeping bags, blankets and socks for the homeless are being organized by the Tri-Sigma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity.

Also, Montgomery County’s Volunteer Center will coordinate indoor family-friendly service projects from 1 to 3 p.m. at the county conference center at 5701 Marinelli Road in North Bethesda. Projects will include tying paracord bracelets for military members, preparing bagged lunches for county shelters and creating fleece blankets for Montgomery Hospice. Information and registration is at www. montgomeryserves.org.

Food and other donations may be dropped off at the conference center and these other service day sites: Seneca Creek Community Church in Gaithersburg, from 9 to 11 a.m.; the Silver Spring Civic Building from 10 a.m. to noon, organized by the Montgomery County Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority; and the International Cultural Center in Montgomery Village, from 3 to 5 p.m.

A number of organizations are holding environmental cleanup projects this weekend. More information is at www.montgomeryserves.org and montgomeryparks.org/team/mlk_jr_day. shtm, or by contacting Henry Coppola at henry. coppola@montgomeryparks.org or 301-495-2476.

All activities are approved for student service learning hours.

Information: servicedays@montgomerycountymd.gov or 240-777-2600.

The 20th anniversary tribute and musical celebration in King’s honor will be at 3 p.m. at the Music Center at Strathmore in North Bethesda. The event is free and open to the public, but tickets are required and may be reserved at www.strathmore.org.

For more information about the musical celebration, contact Yvonne Stephens at 240567-4203 or Yvonne.stephens@montgomerycollege.edu, or Julian Norment at 240-777-8413 or julian.norment@montgomerycountymd.gov.

POLICE BLOTTER

Complete report at www.gazette.net The following is a summary of incidents in the Silver Spring area to which Montgomery County police responded recently. The words “arrested” and “charged” do not imply guilt. This information was provided by the county.

Armed robbery • On Dec. 17 at 6:20 p.m. at Golgule Wireless, 8203 Fenton St., Silver Spring. The subjects threatened the victims with a weapon and took property.

• On Dec. 19 at 10:03 p.m. in the 13600 block of Athania Street, Silver Spring. Forced entry, took property.

• On Dec. 22 at 4:04 a.m. in the 8600 block of Piney Branch Road, Silver Spring. The subjects threatened the victim with a weapon and took property.

• On Dec. 22 at 9:30 p.m. on the path behind Lotte Plaza, 13623 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring. The subject threatened the victim with a weapon and took property.

• On Dec. 23 at 2:48 a.m. in the 500 block of Domer Avenue, Silver Spring. The subject threatened the victim with a weapon and took property.

• On Dec. 24 at 5:59 p.m. at Hung Phat Grocery, 11315 Fern St., Silver Spring. The subject threatened the victim with a weapon and took property.

Auto theft • On Dec. 18 or 19 in the 2100 block of Hildarose Drive, Silver Spring.

• On Dec. 27 at 4:15 a.m. in the 13700 block of Serpentine Way, Silver Spring. Unsuccessful attempt.

• On Dec. 27 between 7:50 and 11:52 p.m. at the parking garage at 801 Ellsworth Drive, Silver Spring.

• On Dec. 27 or 28 in the 1900 block of Bronzegate Boulevard, Silver Spring.

Carjacking • On Dec. 24 at 8:40 p.m. in the 2100 block of Hildarose Drive, Silver Spring. The subject threatened the victim with a weapon and took the vehicle.

Sexual assault • On Dec. 16 between 2:30 and 2:50 p.m. near Ballinger Drive and Van Horn Way, Silver Spring. Unsuccessful attempt.

Strong-arm robbery • On Dec. 20 at 6:41 a.m. in the 1500 block of Dilston Road, Silver Spring. The subject forcefully took property from the victim and fled.

THE GAZETTE

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

Page A-5

Ten-year-old dies after falling through ice Citizens group to take part in Pepco rate case on Crown Farm pond in Gaithersburg Two others rescued and treated for hypothermia

n

BY ST. JOHN BARNED-SMITH STAFF WRITER

A 10-year-old Rockville boy died Monday evening after being pulled out of a sediment pond in Gaithersburg’s new Crown Farm neighborhood.

The boy, identified on Tuesday as D’Angelo Jayvon McMullen, of the 10100 block of Reprise Drive, died at about 7:46 p.m. Monday after being taken to a local hospital in critical condition, according to Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Assistant Chief Scott Graham.

“They were kids, just playing,” Graham said of the three boys whom rescue personnel were called to save Monday at about 4:15 p.m.

The pond was iced over, but not thick enough to support their weight.

“The takeaway here is that no ice in this region is going to withstand human weight,” Graham said, warning people not to go onto iced-over lakes or other bodies of water even if they appear frozen over.

The two other boys also were taken to a local hospital after being rescued from the pond to be treated for hypo-

thermia, he said.

According to Montgomery County Fire and Rescue personnel, the children — described as about 9 to 11 years old — were playing on ice on a sediment pond behind a new development in the Crown Farm neighborhood of Gaithersburg when the ice gave way.

The pond is unmarked and partially bordered with black rubber silt fencing.

Rescuers plucked two of the children from the pond minutes after their arrival. One of them was still on the ice, and the second boy’s foot had fallen through the ice, but rescuers still were able to pull the two to safety quickly, Graham said.

The third boy, D’Angelo, had fallen all the way into the pond, in water that was about 5 feet deep, Graham said.

Rescue crews used thermal imaging to search the pond. A Maryland State Police helicopter equipped with additional thermal imaging hovered over the pond and aided in the search.

It took rescuers about 30 minutes, using poles and searching with their hands, to find the boy and pull him out of the icy water.

Initially listed in critical condition, he died Monday night.

The pond is in Crown Farm, a large residential and commer-

cial district under construction in Gaithersburg. The pond controls sediment and manages stormwater.

Fencing is not required by Gaithersburg’s City Code, but city officials required contractors to install a 42-inch safety fence for the pond as a condition of the erosion and sediment control plan approval process in 2010, said the statement from John Schlichting, the city’s director of planning and code administration.

“City inspectors confirmed installation of the safety fence around Pond #1 at the beginning of construction [in 2010] and at subsequent inspections,” Schlichting wrote. “Removal of the fence has not been authorized by the City.”

Silt fencing about 30 inches tall partially bordered the pond Tuesday morning. A wide swath of land leading down to the water’s edge from Diamondback Drive was not blocked by any fencing, and there did not appear to be any fencing that was 42 inches tall.

At Rosemont Elementary School, Jimmy Sweeney, the school’s principal, said Tuesday that many of his students had arrived the day after D’Angelo’s death already knowing about the tragedy. The accident involved two of his students — D’Angelo, and another unidentified fourth-grader, whom

rescue workers saved.

Sweeney said D’Angelo was a “good, energetic student” who liked science class. Despite it being D’Angelo’s first year at the school, Sweeney said the boy had made many friends at the school and left a strong impression on teachers.

“We are all going to miss him terribly here,” he said.

The school had extra pupilpersonnel workers and counselors to help students process D’Angelo’s death, he said.

School officials also sent out information on ConnectED, a notification service for parents, and sent a letter home with students explaining more details about the incident.

D’Angelo’s brother, a sixthgrader at Forest Oak Middle School, also was involved in the accident, but was rescued unharmed. Sweeney said officials at Forest Oak were working with him as well.

On Tuesday evening, D’Angelo’s family released a statement about their son’s death.

“We would like to thank all of our family, friends, and the community for their support during this difficult time,” it said. “Please respect our privacy while our family grieves the loss of our very special child.” sjbsmith@gazette.net

Martin Luther King Jr. Day closings announced Many Montgomery County operations will be shut down Monday in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. County offices, libraries and liquor stores will be closed. County aquatics programs and facilities will be open, but all other classes

1912377

and programs are canceled.

Administrative offices, senior centers and community centers will be closed. Operating schedules for county parks are at montgomeryparks.org.

Ride On buses will follow a special modified holiday schedule, available at rideonbus.com. Metrobus will follow

a Saturday schedule with supplemental service; Metrorail follows its Saturday holiday schedule. The TRiPS commuter stores in Silver Spring and Friendship Heights will be closed.

Trash and recycling pickups will be delayed one day during the week, with the last

collection day Saturday. The transfer station will be closed.

Parking in public garages and lots and at curbside meters is free.

Schools and school administrative offices, along with state offices and courts, will be closed.

Legislation would help similar groups to recoup fees, costs

n

BY

KATE S. ALEXANDER STAFF WRITER

A Montgomery County citizens group will again have a voice as state regulators consider raising Pepco’s rates.

Maryland’s Public Service Commission has allowed Powerupmontco, an online citizens group tracking electric reliability issues, to participate as it considers Pepco’s latest request for a rate hike, Abbe Milstein said.

Milstein founded Powerupmontco in the wake of a big 2012 storm that caused days of power outages. The group served as a way to share information about electric reliability and performance.

On top of the $27.9 million rate hike that went into effect last July, Pepco has asked the commission for more, this time an additional $43.3 million, which would add $4.80 to the average customer’s monthly bill.

Pepco opposed Powerupmontco’s participation in the case.

Maryland defines who can participate in rate cases and Pepco does not feel Powerupmontco qualifies, company spokeswoman Myra Oppel said in an email.

“Pepco welcomes the input of all of the interested stakeholders, and especially its customers,” she said. However, the rate case itself is a formal evidentiary proceeding subject to clear legal requirements for participation, and we feel that Powerupmontco does not satisfy those requirements.”

The Maryland Office of People’s Counsel questioned what exactly is Powerupmontco.

People’s Counsel Paula Carmody said her office did not oppose Powerupmontco intervening in the case, but wanted to understand the organization

and its membership.

Maryland’s Public Service Commission follows a courtlike process — complete with attorneys, witnesses and experts — for deciding rate cases. And it can be expensive. For example, Montgomery County has spent about $360,000 over the last four years fighting rate increases, county spokesman Patrick Lacefield said.

While utilities can request a portion of expenses in the case be returned via rates, Milstein said participating citizen groups and nonprofits like Powerupmontco, which took part in Pepco’s last rate case, must shoulder all associated costs.

Del. Alfred C. Carr has asked the General Assembly to ease that burden on citizens and allow greater citizen participation in utility regulation proceedings.

Carr (D-Dist. 18) of Kensington has introduced a bill that uses California as a model and allows nonprofits and groups such as Powerupmontco to recoup lawyer fees, expert fees and other expenses involved in participating.

Carr said his bill would level the playing field in proceedings and lead to greater scrutiny of utilities.

“The goal in all of this is improvement of reliability,” Milstein said.

Pepco started a five-year plan to improve reliability in 2010 after an investigation by the Maryland Public Service Commission into the utility’s reliability and quality found it operated with unacceptably low reliability for years. The PSC acknowledged the utility’s poor performance, fining it $1 million for failure to properly maintain its system.

Other legislation this session would funnel fines paid by utilities that fail to meet reliability standards into a dedicated account to then be used by the utilities to improve reliability. kalexander@gazette.net

THE GAZETTE

Page A-6

Shurberg makes bid for District 20 seat Silver Spring resident will prioritize economic justice and environmental issues n

BY

SARAH SCULLY STAFF WRITER

Jonathan Shurberg has played several roles in county and state politics during the last decade. He has argued political cases in court, run campaigns and testified often before state panels in Annapolis.

Now the Democrat is making his first bid for elected office, running for state delegate in District 20, which includes much of Silver Spring, Takoma Park and White Oak. Except for one year in Rockville, Shurberg, 50, has lived in Silver Spring since 1989.

Shurberg and his late wife, Rebecca Lord, started to get involved in local politics in the early 2000s, and then worked on the campaign of state Sen. Jamie Raskin (D-Dist. 20) of Takoma Park.

A lawyer, Shurberg won cases to protect transgender citizens from discrimination in Montgomery County in 2008 — he hopes to extend

those protections to the state level — and to allow 17-yearolds who will turn 18 by the next general election to vote in party primaries.

His campaign will focus on economic justice, environmental protection, more s c h o o l funding for Montgomery County and government transparency.

Shurberg said he Shurberg wants to take on economic justice issues in three parts: raising the minimum wage, requiring employers to provide sick leave to employees, and extending unpaid family leave.

He supports raising Maryland’s minimum wage from $7.25 to $11.50 per hour, which he says still doesn’t meet living wage standards in most of the state. He argues that families who make a self-sufficient wage will rely less on the government for assistance.

From a public health standpoint, he said, sick workers shouldn’t be deterred from staying home. And he doesn’t think anyone should have to

choose between going to the doctor or going to work to make enough money to make ends meet.

Similarly, Shurberg would like to ensure more Maryland workers have access to unpaid family leave, which they might need for medical reasons or after having a child, for example. Only employers with 50 or more employees are required to provide this type of leave, he said. He would like that threshold lowered to 15.

Shurberg also said he would push legislation protecting the Chesapeake Bay from pollution by excess nutrients, most of which come from chicken farms in the bay’s watershed. He wants the companies that contract with poultry farmers held responsible for the chicken manure that harms the bay and said the state can begin to work more productively with farmers on the issue.

Shurberg would like to bring more transparency to Annapolis, with better access to videos and information on General Assembly votes, and making it easier for citizens to participate in hearings by letting them know when certain topics will be discussed. Following his wife’s death in July

2012, Shurberg was suspended from practicing law for misappropriating funds. He was reinstated in last October 2013.

“It was a very difficult time in my life,” he said. “I made some mistakes with respect to my bookkeeping.”

The affected accounts were replenished and Shurberg said no clients lost money or complained about the issue.

District 20 incumbents Sheila Hixson (D) and Tom Hucker (D), both of Silver Spring, are running, as are as many as a dozen challengers, including Democrats Justin Chappell, D’Juan Hopewell, William Jawando, William Smith, Darian Unger and George Zokle.

The third incumbent, Democrat Heather Mizeur of Takoma Park, is running for governor.

The primary election is June 24 and the general election is Nov. 4.

Shurberg said if his wife were still alive she would be the one running for state delegate. The couple did much of their political work together.

His campaign is, in part, a way to honor her, he said. sscully@gazette.net

Del. Hucker seeks third consecutive term Hucker hoping for third term representing District 20 BY

ALINE BARROS STAFF WRITER

After two consecutive terms representing residents of Silver Spring and Takoma Park, Del. Tom Hucker (D-Dist.20) of Silver Spring is looking forward to a third chance to continue his work on consumer rights, education, environment, workers’ rights, and transgender rights.

Hucker said the last legislative session was a successful one since 12 bills he sponsored were signed into law.

“I am very proud of the accomplishments... and really fired up to continue to build on the progress over the next few years,” said Hucker, 46.

The delegate was first elected in 2006 and reelected in 2010. He filed for reelection on Oct. 4. In his latest newsletter, Hucker said he was able to pass bills to protect consumers, workers, clean up the Chesapeake Bay, expand early education and support environmentaly friendly business.

“I want continue addressing issues facing working families in Maryland. The issues that I hear the most about are income inequality,” said Hucker adding while the economy is slowing improving there’s still too many families who need help.

The delegate said he will continue the fight to raise the Maryland minimum wage, and to extend the living wage law that passed in 2007.

Hucker wants to make sure all workers have access to paid

sick days so they can take care of themselves or family members because, “there’s too many workers that have to choose between going to work whether they have to take care of a sick family member or lose a job. Nobody should have Hucker to make that choice.”

Born in St. Louis, Mo., Hucker graduated with honors from Boston College. Besides being a delegate, he works as a consultant for other campaigns such as an environmental health campaign for the Natural Resources Defense Council.

Hucker expressed interest in doing more work on the rising cost of housing, especially rental properties.

“Silver Spring has become a very popular destination, and we have lots of renters of all incomes and they are still experiencing double digit increases in rents. We want to do something about that,” Hucker said.

The District 20 delegate is the House Chairman of the Joint Committee on Federal Relations and is a member of the Economic Matters Committee, Consumer Protection and Commercial Law Subcommittee, and Workers’ Compensation Subcommittee, among others.

Hucker addressed rumors about seeking the District 5 county councilmember seat — which includes Silver Spring, Takoma Park, and Burtonsville — made available by the resignation of Valerie Ervin on Jan.

3. He said many people have encouraged him to run for the council seat, but he admitted he had never considered the possibility.

“I have not had much time to consider the many professional and personal implications of that move, since I’ve been focused on preparing for the General Assembly session,” Hucker wrote in an email to The Gazette.

District 20 includes Silver Spring and Takoma Park in Montgomery County. The dis-

1912333

n

1912383

trict is also represented by Del. Sheila E. Hixson (D) of Takoma Park, who has filed for reelection, and Heather R. Mizeur (D) of Takoma Park.

Others seeking a District 20 seat: Justin Chappell, D’Juan Hopewell, William Jawando, Jonathan Shurberg, Will Smith, Darian Unger, George Zokle, all Democrats.

The primary election will be in June 24, with the general election on Nov. 4. abarros@gazette.net

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

Chevy Chase hires lawyers to fight Purple Line for second month Town holds off on longer contract; second endangered species could derail transit project n

BY AGNES BLUM STAFF WRITER

As the town of Chevy Chase postpones until February its decision on whether to spend $360,000 to hire lawyers for an 18-month contract to fight the Purple Line, others are exploring whether a local endangered species might halt the whole transit project anyway.

The town council did decide to continue paying Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney, a Washington, D.C., law firm, $20,000 for a second month of work, at a meeting on Jan. 8.

The council has looked at this firm, as well as Dickstein Shapiro, another law firm in Washington, for the 18-month, $360,000 contract, which it hopes will help the town fight aspects of the light-rail project.

For example, planned light-rail tracks would run behind the homes, and even through a few backyards, of some Chevy Chase residents.

The Purple Line is a $2.2 billion, 16-mile light-rail project running from downtown Bethesda through Silver Spring to New Carrollton. The Maryland Transit Administration plans to begin construction in 2015.

Some residents wanted more time before making a decision about whether the town should hire a firm for the full contract, said Mayor Pat Burda.

Lawyers from Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney have been advising the town on what its options are, Burda said.

“We’re just exploring with

them what are the best routes for making sure our concerns are addressed,” Burda said, adding that meant meeting with experts in environmental, transportation and government affairs.

Meanwhile there is the possibility that another endangered species might reside close enough to the proposed rail route to throw a wrench in the works, Burda said.

In November, environmental activists claimed a rare shrimp-like creature, called a Hay’s amphipod, could be found in Rock Creek Park.

Now there is talk of another a second endangered animal — a tiny shrimp-like freshwater crustacean called a Kenk’s amphipod — in Coquelin Run, a stream that flows into Rock Creek and the Potomac River.

The Kenk’s amphipod is listed as endangered under Maryland law and is scheduled to be listed federally in a few years, said John Fitzgerald, an environmentalist and lawyer who lives in Chevy Chase.

While both amphipods are in the Rock Creek watershed, the Kenk’s can be found in the area east of Connecticut Avenue and west of Rock Creek on the banks of Coquelin Run, he said.

Turning Elm Street Park into part of the Bethesda Purple Line Station would significantly diminish the likelihood of recovery of these species and, in fact, likely jeopardize their recovery, Fitzgerald said.

The question is whether this small creature exists there, said John Bickerman, a Chevy Chase council member. Because if it did, he said, “it could truly stop the Purple Line in its tracks.” ablum@gazette.net

THE GAZETTE

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

Career advocate Hopewell to campaign for seat in Annapolis Long Branch resident eyes job as District 20 representative

n

BY SAMANTHA SCHMIEDER SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

D’Juan Hopewell has been to Annapolis to lobby for causes and funding and now this 30-year-old Democrat wants to go there as a representative of District 20.

Hopewell, is originally from Cleveland, but now lives in the Long Branch area of Silver Spring and knows that “Maryland is where [he] wants to be.”

Delegates Sheila E. Hixson, Tom Hucker and Heather R. Mizeurcurrentlyrepresenthisdistrict, which includes much of Silver Spring as well as Takoma Park.

He plans to file in January and althoughhehasneverrunforpublic office before, he is no stranger to campaigning for something he believes in. As the Maryland Advocacy Manager for Share Our Strength, Hopewell brought the issue of child hunger to Annapolis and worked to get the necessary funds and support to make sure that no child in the state would go hungry. The No Kid Hungry program has made it possible to provide underprivileged children across the state with a complete, healthy breakfast at the beginning of their school day.

Hopewell was originally hired at Share Our Strength as an independentconsultantandstillworks as one to help different groups develop “messaging, outreach and influence strategies” for programs andvariousthingsthey’reworking on or promoting.

In 2012, when the same-sex marriage referendum was being voted on, Hopewell helped lead a faith-based outreach to help recruit preachers and religious voters to pass the bill.

“There was a lot of people

who said ‘You’re crazy, there is no way you can talk to preachers, especially black preachers, about gay marriage,’” Hopewell said, adding that he did lose a lot of friends in the process.

Though he knew he couldn’t necessarily change their position on the matter, he aimed to

“I want to talk to as many people as I can, knock on as many doors as I can and call as many people as I can.”

D’Juan Hopewell convince them to be in a “do no harm position” where they would not adamantly speak out against it and to do so he mostly spoke with them about family and children rather than theology. On election day, the referendum passed.

“As a voter, I have hesitation until I see you demonstrate that you can pull it off, not the potential, I want to know that you’re bringing it,” Hopewell said.

Hopewell explained that he believes all voters need to see that a candidate is able to go and represent them in Annapolis before they vote and he believes he has adequately shown them that

he is capable of doing so.

Hopewell wants “to fight for our children’s futures” by working to protect the environment as well as fix the economy. He strongly encourages the development of small businesses which he believes will provide jobs and help improve the economy.

Additionally, he wants to stop investing in prisons and instead invest in things like healthcare and school renovations and constructions, citing the recent issue with mold at Rolling Terrace Elementary School close to where he lives.

Hopewell’s first fundraising event was on Nov. 10 at the Society Restaurant and Lounge and his long-term plans are to “raise a little money from a lot of people” instead of hoping for large amounts from few people.

However, he’d rather be out talking to voters about what’s important to them than sitting around calling people to ask for donations.

Hopewell wants to use the time he has before the primaries to reach out to see what the citizens of his district truly want.

“I want to talk to as many people as I can, knock on as many doors as I can and call as many people as I can.”

The primary election takes place June 24, 2014 with the general election on Nov. 4. sschmieder@gazette.net

1912331

1912334

1912205

1912379

Page A-7

Family, political teamwork figure into Zucker’s reelection campaign Brookeville resident trying to retain District 14 delegate seat n

BY

TERRI HOGAN STAFF WRITER

When Craig J. Zucker ran for statedelegateofDistrict14nearly fouryearsago,hededicatedhimself to two things — family and public service. After successfully managing the two, he said, he is ready for a second term.

“I have really enjoyed this term and it has filled the need to serve,” he said. “It’s been my dream, and it’s all good.”

Zucker, 38, and his wife Jennifer live in Brookeville with their sons, Benjamin, 4, and Samuel, 6 weeks.

Zucker and other District 14 legislators — Sen. Karen S. Montgomery (D) of Brookeville, Del. Anne R. Kaiser (D) of Calverton, and Del. Eric G. Luedtke (D) of Burtonsville — filed for re-election on April 9.

John P. Evans (D) of Gaithersburg is the only challenger to have filed.

“We make a good team,” Zucker said of his colleagues.

“One of the things that makes us strong is that we look out for each other, and that helps the community.”

Zucker, a community liaison to Maryland Comptroller Peter V.R. Franchot, said key issues are constituent service, job creation, protecting taxpayer dollars, balancing the

budget and protecting the most vulnerable in the community.

“Since being elected four years ago, I have worked to fulfill mycampaignpromisetoencourage robust economic growth while protecting our most vulnerable citizens,” he said. “This has included writing and passing legislation that shields thousands

“It’s been my dream, and it’s all good.”

Craig J. Zucker of children and senior citizens acrossthestatefromidentitytheft, protecting struggling Maryland homeowners against foreclosure, and laying the groundwork to modernize the state’s emergency 911 system. I have also worked with my colleagues in the General Assembly to create new jobs and grow small businesses across Montgomery County and the state of Maryland.”

He is the vice chairman of

the Public Safety and Administration Subcommittee of the House Appropriations Committee and is the county’s sole House member on the Capital Budget Subcommittee.

Zucker said he’s honored to work with the District 14 team to procure funding for critical initiatives in the district.

“These projects include major renovations to the Laytonsville District Volunteer Fire Department, the Olney Police Satellite Station, the Olney Boys and Girls Club, the West Fairland Park in Colesville, the Olney Theatre Center, and the Sandy Spring Museum,” he said. “Over the last four years, our team has helped secure more than $20 million in school construction funding for our district, which provides a positive learning environment for our children.”

District 14 includes the northeastern portion of the county, including Fairland, Burtonsville, Colesville, Ashton, Sandy Spring, Olney, Brookeville, Laytonsville and Damascus.

Zucker and his District 14 colleagues are using the “team” approach for fundraising.

“Sen. Montgomery, Del. Kaiser, Del. Luedtke and myself are running as a team and will have the resources we need to run a competitive campaign,” Zucker said.

The primary election is on June 24, 2014, and the general election is on Nov. 4, 2014. thogan@gazette.net

THE GAZETTE

Page A-8

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

Schools in desperate need of more Planning Board staff, say speakers at budget meeting chairwoman seeks Testimonies call for counselors, ESOL teachers n

BY

LINDSAY A. POWERS STAFF WRITER

Speakers took to the podium Thursday night to tell the Montgomery County Board of Education about the need for counselors, services for non-English speaking students, technology, and support for Curriculum 2.0 implementation in the fiscal 2015 operating budget.

Superintendent Joshua P. Starr released his recommended $2.28 billion operating budget in December, which includes new positions aimed at helping low-income, English for Speakers of Other Languages and special education students.

Speakers testified about the urgent need for more staff in schools.

Janette Gilman — president of the Montgomery County Council of ParentTeacher Associations — said the council endorsed the budget “in large measure” but was concerned about funds directed toward central office positions.

Gilman said the school board should consider whether the money would be put to better use in schoolbased positions.

Ann Coletti, a Springbrook cluster coordinator, said schools in her area need expanded ESOL services.

“Our ESOL teachers are overwhelmed and understaffed,” she said.

Some schools, Coletti said, need more professional development for teachers to help them better implement Curriculum 2.0.

Large class sizes are put-

“We do need to come up with new ways of doing business. As our population changes, we have to figure out ways to reach them. ” School board member Christopher S. Barclay ting “incredible strains on teachers and students alike,” she said.

One speaker — who identified herself as a counselor at Little Bennett Elementary in Clarksburg — said counselors at her school are facing “enormous demands” as rising enrollment has increased the number of students each counselor works with.

“I counsel 985 students along with a part-time counselor,” she said. “Students in need of counseling are often waiting outside my office or sent back to class.”

School board member Michael Durso said it seems there are disparities from school to school when it comes to student-to-counselor ratios.

Updated tech needed Kevin David — area vice president for the Clarksburg, Northwest, Quince Orchard and Seneca Valley clusters — said the proposed budget does not meet all the needs of the schools in the clusters he represents, which include updated technology and more full-time staff development personnel.

New positions in Starr’s budget include 178 elementary and secondary teachers, 75 positions working with

special education students, and eight positions working with students who speak English as a second language.

The budget also includes 15 focus teachers in high schools aimed at helping reduce English and math class sizes in some schools and new team leader positions in some elementary schools with high numbers of special education and ESOL students.

Other new staff members in the budget include 5.5 elementary school counselors, four school psychologists and three pupil personnel workers.

Dahlia Huh, a junior at Clarksburg High School and secretary of the Montgomery County Regional Student Government Association, said students want to see new technology and programs that were cut restored.

Another speaker, who identified himself as the member of a Latino student achievement group, said the school system needs to develop new ways to address Latino students’ needs and keep it up-to-date with “changing student populations and county communities.”

“Persistent problems cannot be solved with outdated remedies,” he said.

School board member Christopher S. Barclay said he agreed.

“We do have to come up with new ways of doing business,” Barclay said. “As our population changes, we have to figure out ways to reach them.”

Several parents asked for funding to continue an eightperiod class schedule at Silver Spring International Middle School.

The extra period allows more planning time for teachers and opportunities for students to take electives, they said.

Celeste Raker Dillen said her son — a student at Silver Spring International — struggles with learning disabilities, undiagnosed attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and anxiety that make school difficult for him.

In his music, art and band classes, however, he is able to “transcend his disability,” she said.

Dillen said she was advocating for all students who struggle in core academic subjects.

A representative from the Korean Parent Association of Montgomery County shared his concern with board members that the school system was eliminating services that translate parent materials into Korean.

Larry Bowers, chief operating officer for the school system, said the proposed change would mean the school system would no longer employ a full-time Korean translator but rather do the translation work on a contractual basis.

The demand for Korean translation services has decreased in the school system, Bowers said. lpowers@gazette.net

a new challenge Floreen: Council will ‘see what happens’ in finding successor

n

BY

RYAN MARSHALL STAFF WRITER

Saying it’s time for a new challenge, the chairwoman of Montgomery County’s Planning Board will not seek a second term when her appointment ends in June.

Francoise Carrier said Monday there’s no overriding reason for her decision to leave the planning board. She just believed one term was enough, she said.

While she called the job fascinating, Carrier said it was time to find something new.

Montgomery presents a lot of planning challenges, with a mix of rural, suburban and urban communities in a county that’s constantly changing, she said.

The county will need good planning guidance as those changes continue, Carrier said.

Councilwoman Nancy Floreen (D-At Large) of Garrett Park, chairwoman of the council’s Planning, Housing & Economic Development Committee, said Monday she thought Carrier had done a tremendous job chairing the Planning Board and helping guide it through several master plans and the ongoing rewrite of the county’s zoning ordinance.

The rewrite has been an enormous job, complicated by the fact that the county switched planning directors in the middle of the process, Floreen said.

Floreen said everyone would

rmarshall@gazette.net

Lawmakers propose limits to police spying Drones, automatic license plate readers would be regulated n

BY

KATE S. ALEXANDER STAFF WRITER

Two state senators — one very liberal and the other very conservative — have joined efforts in the Maryland General Assembly

Obituary

James R. Wray, a retired geographer and cartographer and pioneer in computer based mapping and use of satellite imagery, died peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, January 5, 2014.

The long-time Silver Spring resident was 90 years old. Wray’s family and friends are invited to celebrate his life at a memorial service to be held Saturday, January 18th, 2014 at 11:00 am at the Sheraton College Park North Hotel, Patuxent Room, located at 4095 Powder Mill Road Beltsville, Maryland.

1906354

1912386

have to “see what happens” in terms of finding a successor to Carrier.

T h e chair of the five-memCarrier ber board is appointed by the County Council andservesfour-yearterms,spokeswoman Bridget Schwiesow said.

The job will be posted, and people will be able to apply for the opening, she said.

Carrier was appointed as chairwoman of the board by the County Council in 2010, succeeding two-term chairman Royce Hanson.

Her term has included the approval of master plans in places such as Chevy Chase Lake, Takoma/Langley, Glenmont, Long Branch and the Countywide Transit Corridors Functional Plan.

During her term, the board also adopted a new Park and Planning Master Plan, approved park master plans and capital programs and supervised the renewed development of the Montgomery Parks Foundation to develop financial support from county residents and businesses.

Carrier graduated from StanfordLawSchoolwithabackground in economics and land use law, and before joining the Planning Board worked as a director and hearingexaminerforMontgomery County’s Office of Zoning and Administrative Hearings.

1905851

to protect citizens’ privacy from police unnecessarily using technology like drones to conduct searches.

Sens. Jamie B. Raskin and Christopher B. Shank, with the backing of the American Civil Liberties Union, will introduce four bills to regulate police use of drones, automatic license plate readers, email surveillance and location tracking so as to not infringe on privacy rights.

“It’s getting Orwellian out there,” Raskin (D-Dist. 20) of Takoma Park told reporters Tuesday morning.

Shank (R-Dist. 2) of Hagerstown called the situation a “slippery slope.”

“I am not content to sit here and allow this current diminution of our privacy rights to get to a point that one day my children or grandchildren are going to wake up and government is constantly spying on them,” he said.

Maryland last amended its privacy laws in 1988, he said.

Yet technology has vastly outpaced the law.

Raskin said the package of privacy bills aims to create a balance between law and technology.

Specifically, absent an emergency, the bills would require search warrants before looking at citizens’ emails and online data as well as before tracking someone via their cell phone. It would impose limits and regulations on aerial surveillance by drones and prevent police from keeping, for longerthan90dayswithoutcause, the license plate and location data collected by the automatic scanners.

In the House, the bills are cosponsored by Dels. Jeff Waldstreicher (D-Dist. 18) of Kensington, Alfred C. Carr Jr. (D-Dist. 18) of Kensington, Michael D. Smigiel Sr. (R-Dist. 36) of Chesapeake City and Samuel I. “Sandy” Rosenberg (D-Dist. 41) of Baltimore. kalexander@gazette.net

THE GAZETTE

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

Page A-9

Montgomery County Homeless flooded local shelters during cold snap schools face tougher emergency drill rules Cold weather zapped county’s blood supply, Red Cross says n

Schools will have to conduct six, instead of four, next year n

BY

LINDSAY A. POWERS STAFF WRITER

At least four times a year, each public school in Montgomery County has practiced an emergency drill to help prepare staff and students for the worst, from a tornado to an armed shooter.

While Montgomery County Public Schools has operated under its own mandate for at least 10 years, the school system will face a new state requirement next school year that calls for six drills each year, according to Bob Hellmuth, director of school safety and security for the school system.

After the revision of emergency plan guidelines for Maryland schools in April 2013, the Maryland State Board of Education added a requirement that schools must conduct drills for evacuation, “shelter in place,” reverse evacuation, lockdown, severe weather and “drop, cover, and hold.”

The state expanded the types of drills local school districts and schools must perform to help them prepare for “a broader range of emergencies,” according to a May 21, 2013, letter from state Superintendent Lillian M. Lowery to members of the Maryland school board.

The change for Montgomery County next year, Hellmuth said, will have to do more with the number of drills rather than their content.

“There’s not anything too new to us,” he said.

Countyschoolscurrentlyhave the ability to pick from among three types of drills: shelter, lockdown and evacuation. These drills cover a variety of possible situations, including weather incidents, Hellmuth said.

Hellmuth said he could not remember how the school system decided to require four drills rather than more or less, but added he thought the number has allowed for a good amount of drill practice in the school system and has not been “overbearing.”

In a shelter drill, a school will practice locking the exterior doors and monitoring the entrances while teachers continue to teach classes. Lockdown drills involve securing a school’s interior doors, covering the windows and making classrooms look unoccupied.

To practice evacuating, students exit the building to meet at a designated place on the campus.

For some drills, schools are handed a specific scenario they must react to, such as a bank robbery nearby involving a suspect last seen heading toward the school.

Schools also must conduct 10 fire drills each year, a separate requirement, Hellmuth said.

Some county principals said the extra two required emergency drills will be helpful.

Scott Murphy, principal of Watkins Mill High School in Gaithersburg, said he thinks four drills is an “appropriate” amount but that there’s always room for more practice.

“Given the uncertainties in today’s world, you can never be prepared enough,” Murphy said.

Following a drill, school staff will conduct a debriefing to evaluate their performance, he said.

“Drills are always a learning experience,” he said.

Cheryl Clark, principal of Lois P.RockwellElementaryinDamascus, said the school conducts multiple drills each year to prepare for emergencies, including weatherrelated incidents.

Not long ago, Clark said, the school dealt with an actual tornado warning for the area.

“I was glad that we had practiced,” she said.

More practice, she said, will translate to students and staff being more apt to follow procedures.

“Anytime that you do a drill for safety reasons, when you’re talking about large numbers of kids in a building and large numbers of staff, I think the practice for safety precautions is not a bad thing — it’s helpful,” she said.

Clark added that the elementary school sees a new group of young students each year who could benefit from the practice.

Clark said she thinks the

state-mandated drills won’t mark a significant change for county schools.

Jimmy Sweeney, principal at Rosemont Elementary School in Gaithersburg, said he thinks that six drills might be too much.

“Four is plenty,” he said. “Six actually seems excessive to me.”

Sweeneysaidheknowstheintentions behind the state requirement are good, but thinks that students and staff know what to dounderthecurrentrequirement.

Eric Wilson, principal of Sligo Middle School in Silver Spring, said that he thinks two more drills will help students and staff with mental and emotional preparedness, translating to less anxiety should an actual incident occur.

Wilson said each drill currently takes only about 15 to 20 minutes — with much of the time devoted to monitoring that the proper protocols are in place — but more drills will mean “a few more challenges.”

“It is going to be a challenge to try and fit them in and get them scheduled,” he said. lpowers@gazette.net

135222G

BY JENN DAVIS STAFF WRITER

With the recent cold snap still fresh in mind, the Montgomery County 100,000 Homes Campaign has been working to help the county’s homeless stay off the streets.

The county’s campaign is part of a national movement of more than 200 communities that works to find permanent homes for chronic and medically vulnerable homeless people.

Since the initiative began in November, four street outreach programs have been working to engage homeless individuals and learn more about them, according to a news release. People Encouraging People Homeless Outreach, Bethesda Cares, Interfaith Works Community Vision and the city of Gaithersburg have staff who spend time talking with people living outside, with the focus of learning about their needs and directing them to safe housing.

A slight uptick in the number of homeless people seek-

ing out one shelter in Silver Spring during the Jan. 7 arctic blast is a small sign of success, according to Susanne Sinclair-Smith, executive director of the Montgomery County Coalition for the Homeless.

The Home Builders Care Assessment Center for men, operated by the coalition at 600B E. Gude Drive, welcomed more people than the shelter could hold. It has a capacity of 135 men, but 160 sought shelter there the night of Jan. 6, according to Sinclair-Smith. Twenty-five of the men were taken to East County Community Recreation Center in Silver Spring for shelter overnight, she said.

“We certainly saw more men over this cold period,” she said. “But we do not turn anyone away. We encourage them to come.”

Montgomery County police also has been periodically checking known homeless encampments, monitoring the welfare of those homeless individuals and encouraging them to go to shelters, the news release said.

Looking to end homelessness, the County Council approved an appropriation Dec. 3 that gives $649,325 to the county’s Department of Housing and Community Af-

fairs to provide permanent housing with supportive services for 15 homeless people classified as medically vulnerable.

Montgomery County Council President Craig Rice (D-Dist. 2) of Germantown said the campaign’s efforts are a step in the right direction.

“This county has done many things over the years to help address our homeless population,” he said. “The 100,000 Homes Campaign targets a special segment of this population — a population that has been difficult to reach. Through this program, and the steps that are being put in place, we now have a better chance of letting them tell us their needs and then directly working to find housing for these most vulnerable people.”

County officials encourage anyone in need of emergency shelter to call the crisis center at 240-777-4000.

“Street cards,” provided by the county, list resources available for those experiencing homeless in the area.

With some of the harshest weather this season now gone, the American Red Cross is asking all eligible blood and platelet donors to give blood to replenish the supply that

went unfilled during cold weather spurts this month.

The Red Cross of the Chesapeake Region, which serves Maryland, Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, and York and Adams counties in Pennsylvania, was forced to cancel 10 blood drives since Jan. 2 because of the inclement weather. The cancellations resulted in about 258 fewer blood and platelet donations.

Platelet donors, and blood donors with the most in-demand blood types — O positive and negative, A negative and B negative — are needed to donate to help offset the shortfall.

“It’s the blood product already on the shelves that help save lives when severe weather hits,” said Linda Voss, CEO of the Red Cross Greater Chesapeake and Potomac Blood Services Region.

Following Jan. 7’s big chill, the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission saw a spike in water main breaks.

Spokeswoman Lyn Riggins reported a total of 64 water main breaks in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties that needed fixing as of Thursday. jedavis@gazette.net

THE GAZETTE

Page A-10

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

Montgomery, allies vie for school construction funds n

Prince George’s, Baltimore counties join in effort to pressure lawmakers BY

KATE S. ALEXANDER STAFF WRITER

The three Maryland jurisdictions with the most population — Montgomery, Prince George’s and Baltimore counties — are calling on state lawmakers for money to build and renovate schools.

Montgomery’s priority this session is establishing a steady, predictable stream of state money to leverage borrowing for school construction.

County Executive Isiah Leggett (D)

BUDGET

Continued from Page A-1 with dramatic increases in enrollment.

The county’s public schools increased by 14,599 students between 2000 and 2012, and nearly half of the schools are projected to have too many students to accommodate by the 2018-19 school year.

The county is working with its delegation to the General Assembly to get about $20 million more from the state to combine with $40 million from the county for school construction.

That would allow the county to generate between $600 million and $700 million in money for school expansion and construction.

“I’m optimistic, but cautiously optimistic,” Leggett said

LEGGETT

Continued from Page A-1 chael E. Busch, Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller Jr., and several Montgomery County officials at the state and local levels are on the list, too.

Gansler’s endorsement list includes about half of Mont-

STORE

Continued from Page A-1 That’s when the county gave him a month-to-month extension for one more year, until

said Montgomery’s enrollment grows annually by about 2,000 students, the equivalent of one high school. In 2013, Montgomery County Public Schools enrolled 151,289 students, up from 148,779 students in 2012.

“We are seeing unprecedented growth that we alone cannot resolve,” Leggett said. “We cannot wait.”

To build one high school costs Montgomery more than $100 million, he said.

Its overall need is as high as $600 million to $700 million in a six-year period, he said.

Leggett will release his six-year capital improvements program Wednesday.

House Speaker Michael E. Busch said Gov. Martin O’Malley’s fiscal 2015

capital budget, which also comes out Wednesday, includes $627 million for education.

Exactly how much the “big three” counties seek from the state remains to be seen, but Leggett said Montgomery will put up money of its own to match.

“We commit an awful lot already on construction dollars, and we’re willing to commit even more, but our commitment can only be leveraged so far and to leverage that you need ongoing, sustainable support,” he said.

Not responding to a growing need for more school construction dollars could threaten county growth. Leggett said Montgomery could face moratoriums on development in areas where schools have reached maximum capacity.

With the state staring at about a $500 million deficit that O’Malley (D) says he plans to close without raising taxes, finding additional dollars to commit in perpetuity will be a challenge, Sen. Roger Manno said.

“It’s a tight budget,” he said. “But it’s my hope that we can find a solution that works for us.”

For the rest of the session, Manno (D-Dist. 19) of Silver Spring — who sits on the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee — said securing this funding will be his No. 1 priority.

If the big three counties broker a deal like Baltimore city secured for school construction last session, Manno said it will be the largest ongoing capital construction project in the history of the state.

kalexander@gazette.net

Friday about the possibility of additional state funds. “I think we have a strong case to make.”

Leggett joined Prince George’s County Executive Rushern Baker and Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz to announce they’ll work together on legislation for additional funding for school modernization and construction.

Leggett’s capital improvement program recommends $1.117 billion for the county’s public schools, a 13.1 percent increase from the approved Fiscal Year 2013-18 CIP. Those expenditures are being balanced by a 14 percent decrease in funding for county government projects, totalling $308.3 million.

If the proposal is fully funded, MCPS’s school construction request could fund

new additions to 18 elementary schools, two middle schools and two high schools, according to the draft proposal. Those projects would create 455 new classrooms by fiscal 2020.

Among other education projects, the proposal includes a $37 million increase for heating, air conditioning and ventilation work.

The capital proposal also includes $348.1 million in funding for Montgomery College, with $89.6 million expected to come from state funding.

The plan would include completing a renovation to a science building and construction of a parking garage on the Rockville campus in 2015; opening the Germantown campus’s Bioscience Education Center in fiscal 2015; and the beginning of design in fiscal 2018 for the Takoma Park campus’s Takoma

Park/Silver Spring Math and Science Center, with construction scheduled to begin in fiscal 2020.

Leggett’s plan would provide funding for transportation projects, including several in the upcounty region.

One project would extend Observation Drive between Germantown and Clarksburg to relieve traffic congestion, while a public-private partnership would connect an intersection of Brink Road and Little Seneca and Snowden Farm parkways to support development and improve traffic flow.

Another project would widen lanes and add sidewalks, bike paths and center medians to Goshen Road South from Girard Street to Warfield Road near Montgomery Village.

Leggett’s plan proposes $51.9 million to replace fire

apparatus that couldn’t be replaced during the recession.

Over the six-year course of the plan, the money would be expected to replace nine aerial units, 64 ambulances, 21 engines, four all-wheel-drive pumper trucks, four rescue squads and two tankers.

The capital improvement plan would change how the county renovates libraries.

The county is in a transitional period with its libraries, re-evaluating how they’re built and used, Leggett said.

Technology is changing how libraries operate, and the county will look at how the buildings are used, he said.

Leggett’s proposal includes money for the Silver Spring Library, which is scheduled to open this year, as well as a combination of a library and recreation center in Wheaton.

In the future, rather than closing down and renovating them, the county will likely perform “refreshments” that will provide electrical and furniture upgrades to more quickly provide upgraded facilities, Leggett said.

The new method is expected to allow the county to update and renovate 17 libraries over the six-year course of the capital plan rather than two libraries under the old method.

Leggett’s proposal also provides $363 million in investments in stormwater management by shifting the focus of the county’s programs from hard concrete structures to methods such as rain gardens, bioretention fields and other environmentally friendly techniques.

gomery County’s delegation and county officials such as State’s Attorney John J. McCarthy and Sheriff Darren M. Popkin.

Mizeur’s support includes current and past Takoma Park leaders.

So far, Leggett said, he sees nothing major that separates the three candidates from each

other.

“For all the things that you look at, there’s no major distinction in terms of qualification,” he said. “There’s no major distinction in terms of issues or political philosophy. They’re all fairly well similar in that regard. So, there’s nothing that I see that would be a show-stopper. ...

“They all support basically

the same kinds of ideas that I think that move the state forward. There’s no major distinction. The only distinction would be, you know, maybe, leadership style or temperament.”

Asked when he expects to make up his mind for an endorsement, Leggett joked, “Maybe around June the 25th.”

Leggett has no plans to take

any stances in state House or Senate primaries, either. But he does have a choice in the attorney general’s race. He has endorsed state Sen. Brian E. Frosh (D-Dist. 16) of Chevy Chase, who has three Democratic competitors so far — Del. C. William Frick (D-Dist. 16) of Bethesda, Del. Aisha N. Braveboy (D-Dist.

25) of Mitchellville, and Del. Jon

S. Cardin (D-Dist. 11) of Owings Mills.

“I think that he is one of the most outstanding public servants that you can find — a very honorable, hard-working guy, who has great values about public service,” Leggett said of Frosh.

the end of this month, which allowed the county to find a new place and train new employees.

“We extended the contract further than we could,” Griffin said.

Haberli made a profit upon

a percentage of the gross sales of the store, which in 2013 was equivalent to 8 percent of $2.5 million in gross sales, or about $200,000.

When contacted by The Gazette, Haberli said he still doubted that his contract would end this month because “this has come up in the past, and they have changed their minds before.”

According to a 2013 Montgomery County Liquor Control report, with the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, the method of alcohol beverage regulation fell to citizens, who decided by state and sometimes by jurisdiction.

Today, Montgomery County is one of the 17 alcohol-controlled jurisdictions in the U.S., which

means the system can keep a standard price and prohibit aggressive sales practices. Stores are operated by county employees.

Besides the Flower Avenue store, the county operates 24 wine and liquor stores.

The liquor control department is the only authorized wholesaler of wine and liquor in the county and the only retailer of distilled spirits under the Article 2B of the Annotated Code of Maryland “If regular residents want to buy a bottle of Jack Daniel’s ... they can only buy at a county liquor store,” Griffin said.

The liquor control department’s website touts the county’s arrangment, saying that under it private profits are replaced by

Professional Services Call 301-670-7106

revenue generated for the community to more effectively support public policy goals.

The 2013 report said that more than $25 million was transferred to the Montgomery

County General Fund in 2013 from county alcohol sales.

County officials expect to have the new Silver Spring store operating in two to three months after the current store closes.

Age 50+?

RICHARD B. ROSENBLATT, PG

Be Someone Who Matters to Someone Who Matters

CHAIRMAN OF THE MD BANKRUPTCY BAR ASSOCIATION 1998-1999

LOAN MODIFICATION

Volunteer as a mentor with Interages®!

1912332

GD27116

www.rosenblattlaw.com

aschotz@gazette.net

GREG DOHLER/THE GAZETTE

THE LAW OFFICES OF

• Chapter 7, 11 & 13 • General Litigation • Tax Debt • Divorce • Traffic/DUI-MVA • Criminal FREE CONSULTATION • PAYMENT PLANS SE HABLA ESPAÑOL

rmarshall@gazette.net

The Flower Liquor Store at Flower Avenue and Piney Branch Road in Silver Spring is set to close this month.

BANKRUPTCY

301-838-0098 THE BANKRUPTCY CENTER The Law Offices Of Erik G. Soderberg, Esq.

STOP Foreclosure, Garnishment, Repossession, Lawsuits & Creditor Harassment

FREE CONSULTATION * PAYMENT PLANS We are a debt relief agency.We help people file for bankruptcy relief.

GD27117 GD26809

Together the state, Baltimore city and its school system will contribute $60 million annually for rehabilitating schools.

Leggett said while Montgomery, Prince George’s and Baltimore counties have stepped forward to ask for school construction funding this session, other communities have similar needs.

“This is not something that is unique to just the three of us,” he said.

If the state does another school construction funding program, like it did for Baltimore City, Busch (Dist. 30) of Annapolis said he would like to see it focus on need not county-by-county allocation.

301-279-0303 ext. 368 Also representing clients in Personal Injury and DUI cases.

1905850

1912206

THE GAZETTE

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

Page A-11

BUSINESS

County refocuses oldest incubator n

Some companies will be forced to move BY

Have a new business in Montgomery County?

Let us know about it at www.gazette.net/ newbusinessform

Cheesecake Factory open at Montgomery mall

KEVIN JAMES SHAY STAFF WRITER

Diners can add The Cheesecake Factory to the list of places to eat at the Montgomery mall in Bethesda.

The restaurant chain opened its newest location at the mall Dec. 19. It replaces the company’s former location at the White Flint Mall in North Bethesda.

The Montgomery mall location is 10,680 square feet and can accommodate 320 diners, according to a release from the company.

The eatery is open from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.

Friday and Saturday; 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday.

National 4-H Council has first female CEO

FILE PHOTO

Maya Eid, a clinical lab scientist for NeoDiagnostix, analyzes cervical epithelial cells at the William E. Hanna Center for Innovation at Shady Grove. man said. “We want to get these private partners to open offices here.”

That will result in some pain to the 34 companies in the innovation center, some of which have been in the Rockville-Shady Grove area for several years. Most of those are in the life sciences.

There is space at the Germantown innovation center and in the private sector, Silverman said.

Johns Hopkins University also has businesses with space within the Rockville campus.

“We intend to work with each one individually to find a good solution for them,” Silverman said.

Once the companies are moved, the renovation process should take a few months, he said, though he was not sure about the timeline.

In October, Silverman and others spoke before a County Council committee about a plan to reorganize the five innovation centers to better focus them and provide more intensive services that can make tenants grow faster.

One proposal calls for focusing the 23,000-square-foot downtown Rockville one on data analytics, while the 32,000-square-foot Germantown center, the newest one that opened in 2008 with 45 offices and 11 wet labs, would retain its life sciences focus.

The 20,000-square-foot Silver Spring center, which formed in 2004 and is in the only building owned outright by the county, would become an accelerator, which provides more intensive programs, including access to funding, in a fixed, reduced time

1884406

A key part of a refocusing program for Montgomery County’s innovation centers is taking shape, as officials plan to move tenants out of the county’s oldest center for early-stage businesses by this summer.

The county plans to work with the National Institute of Standards and Technology and the state of Maryland to renovate the William Hanna Center for Innovation at Shady Grove — which dates to 1999 as Montgomery’s first business “incubator” — as the home of the National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence.

“Somewhere in the country will be the hub for civil cybersecurity,” said Steven A. Silverman, director of the county’s Department of Economic Development. “And we think it should be in Montgomery County.”

NIST, a Gaithersburg-based federal agency under the U.S. Department of Commerce, is in the process of obtaining a contractor to operate the facility as a federally funded research and development center. The public-private entity formally started almost two years ago to bring together experts from industry, government and academia to work on cybersecurity needs.

The agency plans to award a contract to operate the center proposed for five years with a value up to $400 million, according to a NIST news release. NIST also is working with private hightech companies such as Microsoft and Hewlett-Packard, which are providing software and other resources to the center’s work.

“It’s an opportunity to leverage millions of dollars in federal money that is going into cybersecurity and bring cybersecurity companies to the county,” Silver-

BizBriefs

frame. The 12,000-square-foot Wheaton facility, the smallest one, which opened in 2006, would close once its lease is up in 2016.

That plan is on hold while the county moves forward with the program for the Shady Grove center, Silverman said.

The five centers now have an annual budget of about $4.5 million, with about $2.5 million recovered in rent, licensing fees and other income. The idea is to move away from the county doing real estate management to get more investment and partnership management, Silverman said.

The incubator program has graduated more than 100 companies into private space since forming in 1999. kshay@gazette.net

The National 4-H Council of Chevy Chase is now led by its first female CEO and president: Jennifer Sirangelo, who started Jan. 1.

Previously, Sirangelo, who joined the nonprofit in 2006, was its executive vice president and chief operating officer. She succeeds Donald T. Floyd Jr., who retired as CEO in December after 22 years with the council, including 13 as CEO. “Every day, I meet or learn about young people who are tackling issues that matter most and are engaged in 4-H programs focused on science, healthy living, food security and citizenship,” Sirangelo said in a news release. “My pledge is to work to bring the 4-H story to new partners, so that we can work together to grow 4-H and invest in young people — our world’s greatest resource.”

In her seven years with the council, Sirangelo more than tripled its annual fundraising and led the development of its new strategic plan, according to the release.

Before joining the council, Sirangelo was Northeast regional vice president for Boys & Girls Clubs of America and also worked for William Jewell College and the National Kidney Foundation.

Liss joins Foot and Ankle Specialists Dr. Andrew L. Liss recently joined the Foot and Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic, with administrative offices in Kensington.

Liss graduated from the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine. He has been practicing in Maryland for more than 25 years. He was chief of podiatry at Howard County General Hospital and director of the Montgomery County Podiatric Residency Program.

He also was president of the Maryland Podiatric Medical Association for two years and continues to serve on its executive board.

THE GAZETTE

Page A-12

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

SCHOOL LIFE VOICES IN EDUCATION

Joanie Prather n Age: 62 n Job title: Paraeducator, Maryvale Elementary School, Rockville n Hometown: Germantown n Education: Graduated from Gaithersburg High School n Family: Daughter, Crystal n Hobby: Cooking, watching mysteries on TV n Favorite vacation spot: Would love to go to Hawaii n Lesson to live by: It will be better tomorrow.

Joanie Prather is a paraeducator at Maryvale Elementary School, Rockville. She was interviewed at the school Jan. 9.

Your assistant principal, Greg Mullenholz, wrote about you and said you have been at Maryvale for 40 years. That is a long time.

Why have you stayed so long?

I love this school. I will retire from Maryvale, the teachers are caring, they are great. The people and the children [keep me here]. The children are willing to try, they come here in good spirits. All the people are friendly and nice.

How did you get started?

I started as a sub at the old Maryvale, then Mr. Risk, I don’t know his first name he was always Mr. Risk to me, asked me if I’d like to come back and I’ve been here ever since.

Tell me about the changes at Maryvale in the last 40 years.

We used to be in another building, but they tore that down and moved us here. This used to be a middle school, that’s why you see the lockers in the halls. French Immersion came 18 or 19 years ago. They said it was a temporary thing but they’re still here.

The front door was always unlocked and parents could just come in. Not now. And

we used to have a crank copier machine, a mimeograph that got blue ink all over your hands, and there were typewriters.

Have you learned French?

Oui. I don’t go into those classes, only on Tuesdays when we have [Individual Educational Plan meetings] and I need to cover a class. Mostly I go to the English classes where I know what they are doing. They do everything in French except specials: art, [physical education] and music and when they come to lunch.

What is your favorite thing about the job?

I like to go into the classrooms or if they need a sub in P.E. I like working with the younger ones, kindergarten, first and second grades. I like them all but I like the little ones.

I’ve done everything here. One day they called for a sub in the cafeteria and no one came. My friend, another paraeducator, and I did lunch, luckily it was pizza day. We got it in the oven and we got through lunch and cleaned up the cafeteria. It was fun. That was the first time I ever did that and I didn’t do it again. It was a good experience — something different.

Do you have a favorite memory?

One day we were reading a story about

pioneers and I said, “I like rabbit.” To eat.

These were fourth-graders and since we had been a middle school, we were still set up with a kitchen for home [economics], so I bought a rabbit and brought it in a cooked it with the children. They liked it.

Another time, with second-graders, we were reading a story about potatoes and I asked them if they liked mashed potatoes and baked potatoes and many had never had a baked potato. So we cooked them and they liked them, too.

Mr. Mullenholz also said you are a “pillar in the community,” can you tell me about that?

I know a lot of the children’s parents, I had some of them here and now their children are here. People stay in the community and a lot of their grandparents raise them.

I know who rides which bus, who walks and who carpools. I can say, “where’s your brother.” A lot of parents will tell their children, go ask Ms. Prather then tell me what she says.

“Voices in Education” is a twice-monthly feature that highlights the men and women who are involved with the education of Montgomery County’s children. To suggest someone you would like to see featured, email Peggy McEwan at pmcewan@gazette.net.

EDUCATION NOTEBOOK Northwest High seniors share research projects Zoe Kaplan did not know there was a black market for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder stimulants until someone asked about buying some of hers at school one day.

Since then she has researched the problem and said she is surprised at how much kids know about the use of the medications and how little parents and school administrators know about their misuse.

Kaplan, who was diagnosed with ADHD in elementary school, studied the underground distribution of ADHD stimulants for her senior research project as part of the Ulysses Signature Program at Northwest High School in Germantown.

She, along with 28 other seniors in the program, presented her research to classmates, faculty, family and friends Jan. 7 at the school.

The seniors in the Ulysses program are required to share their research twice: once as a lecture before a class and, the second time, as an exhibit to share in at the school’s Ulysses Fair offered in the winter and spring each year.

Students entering the school must apply to be a part of the Ulysses program, said Suzanne Borenzweig, the program coordinator. About 125 students from each grade participate, she said.

Kaplan’s exhibit including a video of the television show “CSI” that dealt with the problem of students purchasing and using the prescription drugs.

ADHD causes concentration issues, she said, and people who don’t usually need the medication like it to help them focus for tests, especially SATs. Many of the students did their research on topics connected to their future occupa-

PEGGY MCEWAN/THE GAZETTE

Robert Allsopp, a senior in the Ulysses Signature Program at Northwest High School in Germantown, discusses his senior research project with English teacher Dorothy Ellis on Jan. 7. Allsopp studied Alzheimer’s disease, examining its symptoms, causes and cures. tions — Kaplan would like to become a physician’s assistant — but others choose something they were just curious about.

Sarah Lee, who often visits family in South Korea, wondered why cosmetic surgery was such big business there.

“It’s so normal, so common in Korea,” she said. “It’s not seen as a negative. It’s like getting braces.”

Through her research, “I came to the conclusion that the idea of beauty in the United States is that you are more than just your face, but in Korea it’s just about your face,” she said.

Rachel Kim studied computer hacking for her exhibit, “Cybersecurity: The Real Deal.”

Amdiel Clement took a cue from his own life to study “Academic Stress: Stressed to the Test” and Robert Allsopp created an exhibit on Alzheimer’s disease.

He said the brain has always interested him.

“In elementary school I did a research study on the lobes of the brain,” he said.

Another group of Ulysses program studies will be pre-

sented at Northwest High on April 30 and May 1.

15 science students among nation’s tops Fifteen Montgomery County Public Schools students — out of 20 statewide — have been selected as semifinalists in the 2014 Intel Science Talent Search, a nationwide high school science competition.

The students and their high schools: • Montgomery Blair in Silver Spring: Alexander N. Bour-

zutschky, Ishaun S. Datta, Neil S. Davey, Daniela I. Ganelin, Yi-Zhi He, Aanchal Johri, Jessica Shi, Hueyjong Shih and Gabriella R. Studt.

• Winston Churchill in Potomac: Daniel D. Liu and Jessica G. Yau. • Richard Montgomery in Rockville: Emily Z. Ma and Suzanne L. Xu. • Poolesville: Vinay K. Sriram.

• Walt Whitman in Bethesda: Lisa Deng.

The competition is administered by the Society for Science & the Public, a nonprofit dedicated to public engagement in scientific research and education. There were 300 semifinalists nationwide, who were chosen from a pool of nearly 1,800 entries.

“I continue to be impressed by the high level of creativity, innovation, and commitment our students display in this rigorous competition,” county school Superintendent Joshua P. Starr said in a news release.

The county students’ research projects covered a range of scientific topics, including cancer treatments, stem cell development and vaccinations.

A list of all the semifinalists and their projects is at www.societyforscience.org.

Each of the semifinalists will receive $1,000. Also, each school will receive $1,000 for each of its semifinalists, which is to be used to further excellence in science, math and engineering education.

Forty finalists will be chosen Jan. 22 and will compete March 6-12 in Washington, D.C., for the top prize of $100,000.

Hispanic group honors Poolesville students Poolesville High School

seniors Andre Guzman of Gaithersburg and Carolina Zarate of Germantown were awarded scholarships for engineering and math talent at the Washington, D.C., regional Hispanic Heritage Youth Awards ceremony.

As the gold medalist in the engineering and mathematics category, sponsored by ExxonMobil, Guzman won a $3,000 scholarship to help him pursue a degree in computer science and electrical engineering.

Zarate, a silver award winner, received a $2,000 scholarship to pursue a degree in computer science.

The Hispanic Heritage Youth Awards program offers educational grants to Hispanic high school seniors chosen by regional selection committees based on their academic achievement, leadership, community service, category focus and an essay about the important role their heritage played in their success.

Open house at St. Patrick’s St. Patrick’s Catholic School

in Rockville will hold open houses for grades kindergarten through 8 on Jan. 23 and 28 and for its prekindergarten class Jan. 31. Both will be from 9 to 11 a.m.

St. Patrick’s, at 4101 Norbeck Road, is an accredited Catholic school and is part of the Archdiocese of Washington.

The school emphasizes excellence in academics, demonstrating faith through service and developing students skills to their fullest potential, according to a news release.

For more information, call 301-929-9672, email office@ stpatrickadw.org, or visit www. stpatrickadw.org.

35 county teachers achieve certification Thirty-five Montgomery County Public Schools educators achieved certification by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards in 2013. This brings the number of board-certified teachers in the school district to 672.

The district surpasses all other districts in Maryland and ranks eighth among school districts nationwide in the number of new certified educators.

The voluntary certification program involves a performance-based assessment that typically takes more

than a year to complete. It is designed to measure what accomplished teachers should know and be able to do. The process requires teachers to demonstrate how their activities, both inside and outside the classroom, strengthen student performance and contribute to student achievement.

Educators earn certification after completing a series of assessments that include teaching portfolios, student work samples, videotapes and analyses of their classroom teaching and student learning. Candidates also complete a series of written exercises that probe the depth of their subject-matter knowledge and their understanding of how to teach those subjects to their students.

Certified full-time, non-administrative Montgomery educators receive a $2,000 annual bonus. The state also provides a stipend to certified teachers who meet certain qualifications, pending annual funding.

Gaithersburg High offers summer job fair Students at Gaithersburg High School who are thinking

ahead to summer can explore job opportunities at the Summer Job Fair at 7 p.m. Tuesday in the school cafeteria at 314 S. Frederick Ave. The fair is sponsored by the school and the Parent Teacher Student Association. Among the job providers who will be answering questions and taking applications at the fair will be Asbury Methodist Home in Gaithersburg; the Rockville Parks and Recreation Department; Gaithersburg’s aquatics, parks and recreation, miniature golf and water park facilities; and the Montgomery Village Foundation aquatics and parks and recreation departments.

Information: carrieb@newsomseed.com.

1906325

Implant $1255 Abutment & Implant Crown 1912212

$998

Implant Placement

by Our In-House Oral Surgeons Crowns and Dentures Placed by Our Restorative Dentists

Still can’t find the car you were looking for?

THE GAZETTE

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

Page A-13

CELEBRATIONS HEALTH CALENDAR WEDNESDAY, JAN. 15 A Mothers and Daughters Night out: “Let’s Talk about HPV,” from

Kosian Bruce and Dorothy Mills Kosian celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Jan. 11, 2014.

They were wed on Jan. 11, 1954, at their minister’s home when Bruce was on leave from the Army. Bruce was a member of the 82nd Airborne Division during the Korean War and Dorothy was a secretary in Rockville. They spent 47 years in the Derwood area until the their home was taken by eminent domain for the building of the ICC. They now reside in Gaithersburg.

They have three children, Mark Kosian, Karen Kosian and Kathy Ruddle. They have four grandchildren, Keith Kosian, Heather Kosian, Stacey Ruddle Guedes and Wesley Ruddle, and one great-granddaughter, Stella Guedes.

They have enjoyed their neighbors and friends all these years.

6-7:30 p.m. at MedStar Montgomery Medical Center, 18101 Prince Philip Drive, Olney. The best way to fight cervical cancer is to learn what can be done to prevent it. During Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, MedStar Montgomery is bringing together a group of experts who will help both mothers and daughters understand the importance of being proactive about cervical cancer screenings and vaccines. Learn about the human papillomavirus and Gardasil, the vaccine that has been proven effective in preventing HPV. www.medstarhealth.org.

SATURDAY, JAN. 18 Girls on the Run: First Aid, 8 a.m. to noon Jan. 18 at Suburban Hospital (Lambert Building), 8710 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda.

Receive instruction on first aid and learn the treatment of bleeding, burns, broken bones and more.

This course is for GOTR coaches only. Class workbook can be purchased the day of the class for $14.

Checks and cash accepted. $20. www.suburbanhospital.org.

SUNDAY, JAN. 19 Childbirth Express at MedStar Montgomery, from 1-5 p.m. at

MedStar Montgomery Medical Center, 18101 Prince Philip Drive, Olney. This condensed version will prepare couples for their labor and birth experience. Class is presented in lecture/video format. To enhance what you learn, hands-on instruction available by taking the Lamaze Techniques class.

Hospital tour included. $75. www. medstarhealth.org.

TUESDAY, JAN. 21 Safe Sitter, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at

Suburban Hospital (Lambert Building), 8710 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda. Comprehensive training course teaches 11- to 13-year-olds the essentials of babysitting. Course includes tactics in handling emergencies basic first aid and child-care skills. Registration required. If you are interested in becoming a Safe Sitter instructor, please call 301896-2999 for more information. $95. www.suburbanhospital.org.

Breastfeeding Basics at MedStar Montgomery, 7-9:30 p.m. at

MedStar Montgomery Medical Center, 1801 Prince Philip Drive, Olney. Course is designed to offer advice and support for breastfeeding mothers. A lactation specialist will discuss topics on the healthrelated benefits of breastfeeding, practical techniques, and breastfeeding at work. $30. www.medstarhealth.org.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 22 Healthy Choices, 7-8 p.m. at Suburban Hospital (Lambert Building), 8710 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda. Ten-week structured program to help you learn a nondiet lifestyle approach to weight management. A Suburban Hospital registered dietitian will help you get started on the best way to achieve a healthy body through nutrition, exercise and behavioral skills. $145. www.suburbanhospital.org.

SATURDAY, JAN. 25 CPR and AED at MedStar Montgomery, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

at Montgomery Medical Center, 1801 Prince Philip Drive, Olney.

The Heartsaver class teaches basic CPR, rescue breathing, and relief of choking for adults, infants and children and Automated External Defibrillator use. After successful completion, the student will receive a Heartsaver AED card from the American Heart Association.

Class is for the lay community and is not adequate for individuals who have or will have patient-care responsibilities. This class is not designed for health care providers.

If you are a health care provider, please register under BLS and CPR for Healthcare Professionals. $80. www.medstarhealth.org.

UPCOMING Qigong, 10:45-11:45 a.m.

Thursdays, Jan. 23 to Feb. 27 at Bethesda Regional Service Center, 4805 Edgemoor Lane, Second Floor, Bethesda. Focus on maintaining good health and preventing chronic ailments through the cultivation of life energy. Unlike Tai Chi, Qigong uses minimal movement, concentrates on proper alignment and meditation.

Exercises can be practiced from a standing or sitting position. $70. www.suburbanhospital.org.

Senior Shape: Stability Ball, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Thursdays to March 27 at the Gaithersburg Senior Center (Bohrer Park), 506 Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg.

Taught by a certified instructor, program will tone and define core muscles and help build better balance.

Dress comfortably. Bring an exercise ball, hand-held weights or speak with the instructor to determine the right kind of ball to use. $15. (Also 9-9:45 a.m. Mondays, to March 31 at the Holiday Park Community Center, 3950 Ferrara Drive, Wheaton, $30; 11-11:45 a.m. Tuesdays at the Margaret Schweinhaut Center, 1000 Forest Glen Road, Silver Spring, $30), www.suburbanhospital.org.

Senior Shape: Advanced Weight Training, from 10-10:45

a.m. Fridays to March 28, at Holiday Park Community Center, 3950 Ferrara Drive, Wheaton. Taught by a certified instructor, this exercise program, participants perform a variety of weight-training exercises at a faster pace to increase muscu-

lar strength and endurance while getting the heart rate up. Form is emphasized to insure maximal results while keeping the joints safe.

Dress comfortably. Bring a mat. $30. www.suburbanhospital.org.

Yoga for Women Cancer Survivors, from 7-8:15 p.m. Mondays

to March 31, at Sibley Medical Building Conference Room 2, 5215 Loughboro Road, NW, Washington, D.C. Weekly meditative gentle and restorative yoga using mindful movement, balance and breathing techniques to help women with a history of cancer to reduce anxiety, improve quality of life and regain sense of self. $10 per class, $30 per month, scholarships available. Walk-ins welcome with cash/ check if space permits. 202-2432320. www.suburbanhospital.org.

Meditation and Mindfulness: Tools for Alleviating Stress Post Cancer Diagnosis, from 7-8 p.m.

Thursdays to March 27 at Sibley Memorial Hospital, Private Dining Room 3 (next to cafeteria), 5255 Loughboro Road, NW, Washington, D.C. Join facilitator Ashley Nunn and others with a history of cancer to learn about and practice a relaxation technique that uses focus on breathing. This practice has been shown to be effective in reducing stress, anxiety and loneliness; improving sleep; and boosting immune system. No prior experience required. Walk-ins welcome. Register at Sibley.org or call 202-243-2320. Free. www.suburbanhospital.org.

Mommy & Me Club, from 10 a.m. to noon Wednesdays, to Jan. 29, at MedStar Montgomery Medical Center, 18101 Prince Philip Drive, Olney.

Program offers education and support for new mothers and their babies. Discuss with a registered nurse the practical changes that occur after a new baby arrives. Topics include breastfeeding/feeding issues, infant development, how to calm a fussy baby and get more sleep to name a few. $60. www.medstarhealth.org.

RELIGION CALENDAR ONGOING

Rowe, Sankar Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Rowe of Damascus announce the engagement of their daughter, Brittany Wyatt Rowe, to Mr. Scott Edward Sankar, son of Dr. and Mrs. S. G. Sankar of Burlington, N.C. The bride-to-be graduated from Damascus High School in 2003, from Salisbury University in 2007 with a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and earned a doctor of pharmacy degree from the Massachusetts School of Pharmacy & Health Sciences in Worcester, Mass., in 2010. Ms. Rowe is a pharmacist, employed with CVS Pharmacy, and resides in Mt. Pleasant, S.C. The prospective groom graduated from Walter Williams High School in Burlington, N.C., in 2004 and earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing in 2008 from North Carolina State University. Mr. Sankar is the general manager of Ristorante Lidi on Daniel Island, S.C. A November 2014 wedding and reception is being planned at The Francis Marion Hotel in Charleston, S.C.

Damascus United Methodist Church, 9700 New Church St., Damascus, offers traditional Sunday morning worship services at 8:15 a.m., a youth contemporary worship service at 9:30 a.m. and a service of liturgy and the word at 11 a.m. with Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. for all ages during the school year. www.damascusumc.org.

Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 7730 Bradley Boulevard, Bethesda, offers services at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. each Sunday, with Sunday School for all ages scheduled at 10 a.m. Child care is offered from 8:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. A fellowship and coffee hour follows the 8:30 a.m. service.

301-365-5733, www.elcbethesda.org.

Liberty Grove United Methodist Church, 15225 Old Columbia Pike, Burtonsville, conducts Sunday morning worship services at 8:30, 9:30 and 11 a.m. Sunday school, nursery through adult, is at 9:30 a.m. 301-421-9166. For a schedule of events, visit www.libertygrovechurch.org.

“MOPS,” a faith-based support group for mothers of children, birth through kindergar-

ten, meets from 9-11:30 a.m. the first and third Wednesdays of the month at the Frederick Church of the Brethren, 201 Fairview Drive, Frederick. Child care is provided. Ministry serves moms who have children from birth to kindergarten, encouraging moms during whatever stage of mothering they are in and provide support and fellowship with other moms in the same season of life. For more information call 301-662-1819. Email mops@fcob.net.

Neelsville Presbyterian Church, 20701 Frederick Road, Germantown, has returned to its Fall worship schedule, with services at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sundays. Sunday School for all ages at 9:40 a.m. www.Neelsville.org.

Providence United Methodist Church, 3716 Kemptown Church Road, Monrovia, conducts a contemporary service at 8 a.m. followed by a traditional service at 9:30 a.m. Sunday mornings, with children’s Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. and adult Sunday school at 11 a.m. For more information, call 301-253-1768. Visit www. kemptownumc.org.

Trinity Lutheran Church, 11200 Old Georgetown Road, North Bethesda, conducts services

every Sunday, with child care from 8 a.m. to noon and fellowship and a coffee hour following each service. 301-881-7275. For a schedule of events, visit www.TrinityELCA.org.

Chancel choir auditions and rehearsals, 7:30 p.m. Thursdays at Liberty Grove Methodist Church, 15225 Old Columbia Pike, Burtonsville.

Call 301-421-9166 or visit www.libertygrovechurch.org.

“Healing for the Nations,” 7 p.m. every first and third Saturday of the month at South Lake Elementary School, 18201 Contour Road, Gaithersburg. Sponsored by King of the Nations Christian Fellowship, the outreach church service is open to all who are looking for hope in this uncertain world. Prayer for healing available. Translation into Spanish and French. Call 301-251-3719. Visit www.kncf.org.

Geneva Presbyterian Church, potluck lunches at 11:30 a.m. the second Sunday of each month at 11931 Seven Locks Road, Potomac. There is no fee to attend. All are welcome to bring a dish to share; those not bringing dishes are also welcome. Call 301-4244346.

The Gazette OUROPINIONS

Forum

Wednesday, January 15, 2014

|

Page A-14

From the thumbs of babes

If you thought the weather was awful last week, you should have read the cesspool of angry comments leveled at Montgomery County Public Schools Superintendent Joshua P. Starr on Twitter.

Starr has made himself accessible on the social media site, sharing school-related news and the occasional personal thought.

In return, parents, students and anyone else with electronic access can write back.

On Jan. 6, amid a spell of severe cold weather, Montgomery and other school systems had to decide whether to cancel school the next day.

Schools were closed in Fairfax County, Va., and opened two hours late in Prince George’s County. MontgomANYONE WHO ery County and Washington, D.C., were in the minority in CARES ABOUT CIVILITY SHOULD sticking to a normal school schedule.

WORRY ABOUT reaction, predictably, THESE TIRADES VIA wasThe overwhelmingly — well, TWITTER annoyed or mad doesn’t capture it.

Many people launched Twitter-length tirades that were as bitter as the outside air.

Some attacked Starr’s judgment and competency. One insisted that he resign.

Some of the harsher comments included raunchy insults.

Then, there were the threats, such as: Starr should be hunted down and tied to a tree.

Another said: Starr’s personal biography, which lists him having three children, might need be changed to having two kids if he doesn’t watch out. Get it?

A few lonely voices chimed in to call for the vicious attacks to end. At least one apologized to Starr for the barrage.

The wording of the tweets and the Twitter user profile photos point toward students being behind much of the vitriol, but there is no way to know without further investigation.

When a similar wave of anger was directed toward Starr in December, he responded with an open letter.

Referring to messages from students at the time, he wrote, “Some of these ‘tweets’ were clever, funny, and respectful, pleading for me to cancel school so they could sleep in or have more time to do their homework. Many of these tweets, however, were offensive and disturbing. Some were threatening to me and others. A few referenced my family. There was rampant use of racial epithets and curse words.”

This should be a giant “whoa!” to any parent who cares about decency and civility. Just what have our kids learned?

The school system superintendent, in a modern-world gesture toward access and connectedness, has invited comments from anyone, at any time.

Maybe this is simply too much freedom for teens with unregulated access to electronic communication and no shame.

Imagine the same exchange happening face to face: A teen addressing an adult — let alone the top school system official — by his first name, or a slang nickname, or a racial slur, and so on, down the scale of formality and respect.

Some of the exchanges could rise to the level of criminal behavior — hinting about killing someone’s child? — yet Starr, magnanimously, hasn’t involved police, according to Gboyinde Onijala, a spokeswoman for the district.

In his letter, Starr cited his legal responsibility to report the most violent-tinged messages to administrators and security staff.

One media report quoted Starr saying principals “doled out consequences” to some students who sent the tweets, but Onijala told The Gazette that the central office left that discretion to the principals and doesn’t know if any of them took disciplinary action.

Starr’s reference to “cyberbullying” in his public letter was misinterpreted by tweeters who ordered him to toughen up.

Actually, the superintendent’s letter clearly and astutely raised the societal factors behind what is happening in these Twitter attacks. He wants to address how young people use social media and how it can go so wrong.

Bullying, electronically and in person, is a primitive, destructive assault on a person’s pysche and well-being. It germinates in school systems, where youths sometimes crave adulation and acceptance, even at another person’s expense.

Starr wrote that “the adolescent brain isn’t equipped to think long term and doesn’t calculate risk/reward ratios in the same way that adults do.”

Parents need to do more than hand children a smartphone and send them on their way. Electronic devices, as these two episodes of online nastiness show, can amplify or replace inperson bullying, putting educators in a bind on how to police inappropriate behavior that doesn’t physically take place on school grounds.

Onijala said the school system offers parents plenty of ideas and advice for talking to their children about the proper way to act online and offline.

Now, the district might do more, through a work group examining “cybercivility.” Onijala said there are no specific plans or timetables yet for the group, which will include students.

We commend Starr for thinking productively rather than punitively. May the effort toward detoxifying our daily discourse continue.

The Gazette Karen Acton, President/Publisher

LETTERS TOT HE EDITOR

Term limits might not solve the problem

MICHELLE GREEN

Officials for Montgomery Child Care Association Inc. say that over the winter holidays, one of their buses was vandalized with foam from a fire extinguisher.

Shocked, disgusted at vandalism Montgomery Child Care Association Inc. has provided child care and early education to the families of Montgomery County for over 40 years. MCCA takes an active role in supporting the communities that we serve and is dedicated to providing high quality and affordable child care.

This December, on the Sunday before New Year’s, we discovered that a school bus at one of our programs located in the Beverly Farms neighborhood in Potomac had been vandalized. The vandals entered the bus, used the fire extinguisher to spray foam all over the interior of the bus, and then defecated on the driver’s seat.

A scooter abandoned nearby suggested that neighborhood youth may

have been involved in this senseless act. We reported the incident to the Montgomery County Police, who attempted to recover fingerprints from the scene.

We cleaned and sanitized the bus at great expense and bought a new fire extinguisher. The young children in our program missed two days of field trips while the bus was out of commission and the children had a hard time understanding why.

After our initial shock and disgust passed, we were left to wonder what would motivate young people to engage in this type of behavior — anger, contempt, or possibly worse, a complete lack of empathy for the impact of their actions on others?

We also wondered

whether the parents of these young vandals have any idea at all that their children are capable of such vile behavior against a longtime neighborhood nonprofit that provides an essential service to their community.

As the new year begins, and our children return to school, let us resolve as parents, caregivers and educators to model self-control and compassion, and to develop responsible citizens with strong social and emotional foundations. We teach these values to our youngest children; we should expect more of our youth.

Michelle Martineau Green The writer is the executive director of the Montgomery Child Care Association Inc. in Rockville.

Support for Kleine for District 5 I am writing in strong support of Andrew Kleine for the “caretaker” seat on the Montgomery County Council. I served with Andrew on the Central Committee and he served as the president of our Citizens Association.

Andrew would bring a skill set to the council that would be of incalculable help in these tight budget times. His experience in public finance and management would give our county help way beyond the pay scale of the position.

We are privileged to be offered his assistance on a temporary basis and should take full advantage of that offer by allowing him to serve us.

Beth Siniawsky, Silver Spring

WRITE TO US The Gazette welcomes letters on subjects of local interest. Please limit them to 200 words. All articles are subject to editing. No anonymous letters are printed. Letters are printed as space permits and are limited to one per person per month. Include your name, address and daytime telephone number.

Send submissions to: The Gazette, attention Commentary Editor, 9030 Comprint Court, Gaithersburg, MD 20877; fax to 301-6707183; or email to opinions@gazette.net.

9030 Comprint Court, Gaithersburg, MD 20877 | Phone: 301-948-3120 | Fax: 301-670-7183 | Email: opinions@gazette.net More letters appear online at www.gazette.net/opinion

Douglas Tallman, Editor Krista Brick, Managing Editor/News Glen C. Cullen, Senior Editor Copy/Design Meredith Hooker, Managing Editor/Internet Robert Rand, Managing Editor/Presentation

Andrew Schotz, Assistant Managing Editor Nathan Oravec, A&E Editor Ken Sain, Sports Editor Dan Gross, Photo Editor Jessica Loder, Web Editor

Dennis Wilston, Corporate Advertising Director Doug Baum, Corporate Classifieds Director Mona Bass, Inside Classifieds Director

Jean Casey, Director of Marketing and Circulation Anna Joyce, Creative Director, Special Pubs/Internet Ellen Pankake, Director of Creative Services

Paul and JoAnn Schimke raise very valid concerns regarding last November’s “No Selection Election” [“Term limits needed in Gaithersburg,” letters, Jan 8].

However, it is unclear that their proposed remedy, term limits for the mayor and council members, would be in the city’s long-term best interest.

The fact that no one stepped forward to challenge the three incumbents may reflect a public consensus that the city is wellmanaged. It may also reflect the fact that currently there are no burning issues that serve to polarize the electorate.

These factors could change.

Both the mayor and one council member have announced plans to seek higher office. Vacancies in city government will occur through attrition. A few years hence, many neighborhoods will be convulsed for years by construction of the Corridor Cities Transitway. Issues will arise that will test Gaithersburg’s governance and encourage electoral challenges.

For the moment, however, one is reminded of Joni Mitchell’s memorable lyrics: “Don’t it always seem to go that you don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone.” No need to force the issue.

Bill Fallon, Gaithersburg

E-ZPass puts limits on ICC While part of the problem with the use of the ICC (Md. 200) maybe the high cost of the tolls, the real problem may be the fact that one has to have E-ZPass. If one doesn’t have an E-ZPass, then there is a $3 surcharge adding to the toll cost ($6 roundtrip extra regardless of the toll). Maryland charges $18 a year to have their E-ZPass, plus keeping at least $25 in the account. The commuter with limited funds or the infrequent user may not want to pay that much for so little.

Dr. Alan S. Kaplan, Rockville

POST COMMUNITY MEDIA Karen Acton, Chief Executive Officer Michael T. McIntyre, Controller Donna Johnson, Vice President of Human Resources Maxine Minar, President, Comprint Military Shane Butcher, Director of Technology/Internet

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

THE GAZETTE

The re-election session

It’s election year. Every aspect of decision that pit bulls are “inherently the 2014 Maryland General Assembly dangerous.” Common law says ownsession, which convened Wednes- ers and landlords aren’t liable unless day, hinges on that all-important an animal has shown prior viciousfact. The chief aim (the sole aim?) ness (the “one bite” rule). The court’s of every state lawmaker is to either decision creates liability chaos. Also, get re-elected or to get elected to the pit bulls are not a distinct breed. And next-highest office. Only the lame how about crossbreeds? A legislative ducks aren’t laser-focused on career correction is in the works. enhancement.

Another court decision, Adding to the anxiety that criminal defendants is this year’s early primust have counsel (public mary election date, June defenders) at bail hearings 24, just 10 weeks after the before a commissioner, session adjourns. Whose could cost the state more idea was it to put an electhan $30 million a year. tion so close to income Legislative leaders have detax-filing day? Incumcided to kick that can down bents worry that there’s the road until next year. not enough time for votStatehouse incumbents ers to forgive or forget. also must apply cosmetic MY MARYLAND surgery to a couple of state And the $300 million budget surplus that inscandals that are embarBLAIR LEE cumbents built into last rassing their gubernatorial year’s budget so there’d favorite, Anthony Brown. be plenty of election-year loot to First, there’s the Black Guerrilla spread around is gone. Instead, this Family federal bust at the state-run year’s state spending, as usual, ex- Baltimore city jail, where corrupt ceeds projected revenues, a $500 mil- guards were helping an inmate gang lion deficit downer. run the joint, including conjugal But Gov. O’Malley and the Dems visits with the female guards. After have a solution — put it on the credit O’Malley pronounced the scandal “a card. Just borrow an additional $75 positive development,” a legislative million annually for the next five task force decided who’s to blame ... years and let the next governor worry the building! That’s right, the soluabout Maryland’s skyrocketing debt tion is a new $533 million jail. Seriservice, the largest increase of all ously. budget categories, climbing from The task force also recommended $233 million in 2015 to $557 million new disciplinary rules for the guards, in 2019. Call it Detroit financing. but if you believe state lawmakers are Another solution to the lack of state going to stand up to the public emmoney is to spend somebody else’s ployee unions in an election year, I’ve money. That’s why state lawmakers got some Lehman Brothers stock I’d are falling over themselves to raise the like to sell you. Heck, O’Malley and state’s $7.25-per-hour minimum wage. the Dems enacted the 2010 “CorrecThe state won’t have to pay the new in- tions Officers Bill of Rights,” which, creases; employers will. as the feds observed, results in “no Incumbents have taken a lot of effective punishment” for corrupt heat for passing the infamous “rain guards. So, instead of placing blame, tax,” one of the dumbest laws ever we’ll build a new jail. enacted. But after all the posturing Speaking of placing blame, who is over, the powerful environmental takes the fall for Maryland’s $150 millobby will prevent its repeal. At most, lion Obamacare website fiasco? Lt. it might be delayed until after the Gov. Anthony Brown was in charge election, but, more likely, it will be but, when the website crashed in Ocsoftened for nonprofits and religious tober, the party line was, “We’re foproperties. cused on fixing it, we’ll place blame Some unfinished business in- later.” Well, “later” is here. But you’re cludes resolving a mindless court about to see one of the greatest magic

1906337

Page A-15

LETTERS TOT HE EDITOR

acts in state history. Somehow, the blame will fall on the bureaucrats, on the contractors or on anyone else except Brown, who’s been endorsed by the legislature’s leadership, by O’Malley and by most Democratic incumbents.

Finally, here’s my nominee for this session’s wild card sleeper issue, legalizing marijuana, which could get legs for these reasons: One, most incumbents are Dems whose re-election depends on winning their Dem primary in their Dem districts, where pot is popular. A 2012 Gonzales poll on medical marijuana showed 63 percent of Maryland’s likely voters in favor, but 70 percent of Dems.

Two, for blacks and liberals it’s a civil rights issue; legalization would end so-called racial bias in pot convictions.

Three, Senate President Mike Miller is in favor because he wants the pot tax revenue, the same reason why he backed slots and casinos.

Four, Del. Heather Mizeur’s only chance for winning the governor’s race is her legalizing pot pledge, so she’ll be pot’s Joan of Arc in this year’s session.

Five, House Speaker Mike Busch and O’Malley are opposed but Busch is famous for caving in (i.e., slots and casinos), and O’Malley’s veto might act as a perverse incentive for lawmakers who want to vote for legalization without it actually happening.

Likewise, lame-duck lawmakers, immune from re-election pressure, may cast surprising votes.

To make it more palatable, recreational pot may be recast as decriminalization or as unrestricted medical marijuana (like California).

But, whatever they call it, 2014 may be the year when the Free State becomes the Weed State.

Blair Lee is chairman of the board of Lee Development Group in Silver Spring and a regular commentator for WBAL radio. His column appears Fridays in the Business Gazette. His past columns are available at www.gazette.net/blairlee. His email address is blairleeiv@gmail. com.

135320G

We don’t need hunts to manage deer Every public park near our home in Montgomery County displays yellow signs warning the public of its impending closure during January and February 2014, when “trained sharpshooters” will roam the forests from dusk to dawn in a futile attempt to cull the deer population.

Research has shown that in areas where such “management” occurs, the deer population actually increases. It makes sense — surviving deer have less competition over scarce food sources and nature fights back with an increase in multiple births the following season.

There are much better and more humane ways to keep the deer population under control such as fencing, birth control, and using trained dogs to herd the deer. Rapid City, S.D., has been killing deer since 1996 with unclear effect and at a cost of over $350,000. In Lewis Morris Park, N.J., an annual deer cull since 1996 produced the following effect: 63.2 deer per square mile in 1996, 65 deer per square mile in 2009.

After 17 years of deer culling, the city of Stevens Point, Wis., concluded that the deer population’s rate has remained unchanged. Is it possible that these “management” practices actually are causing a larger problem and giving hunters an excuse to invade our parks?

Deer have a relevant role in our ecosystem only we have not adequately explored this angle. A recent article in the Journal of Wildlife Management states that high deer populations enrich the soil with their droppings creating hospitable environment useful for its forest creatures. Deer grazing on tree saplings have also shown to enhance the moisture of the soil.

There is no scientific evidence to support that deer are preventing our forests from regenerating. In New York near Binghamton University researchers clearly showed why deer culling not only had no positive effects but also longterm negative affects on our ecosystem.

They found that the presence of deer is actually helpful to other animal species, and that programs to reduce their populations may be detrimental to a region’s biodiversity.

“Culling deer may cascade into affecting plants, salamanders and other creatures in ways we can’t even imagine,” said Ohio State University researcher Katherine Greenwald. “Officials need to know more about the forest ecosystem before making decisions about wildlife management.” Another study showed that some forest understory-dwelling birds benefit from deer grazing, and that the presence of deer decreased populations of rodents that preyed on ground birds’ nests.

Culling practices have also shown little if no impact on the tick population. Deer are much less likely than other hosts (such as mice) to transmit a bacterial infection to feeding ticks. Deer then actually may play an important role in reducing the incidence of Lyme disease.

We neglect to take into account our role in destroying the deer’s habitat and their predators. The least we can do is leave the parks as our sanctuary and theirs — for our families and future generations. Let’s find cheaper and better ways of creating safe sanctuaries for all of us — people and deer alike.

Avi Goldscheider, Potomac

GAZETTE FILE PHOTO

Page A-16

THE GAZETTE

Advertorial

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

1906228

DAMASCUS HANDS GAITHERSBURG ITS FIRST LOSS IN BOYS’ BASKETBALL, B-3

SPORTS SILVER SPRING

www.gazette.net | Wednesday, January 15, 2014 | Page B-1

Senior-less Blair wins despite youth

HOW THEY RANK BOYS The 10 best boys’ basketball teams in Montgomery County as ranked by The Gazette’s sports staff:

Rank 1.

School

Record Pts

Bullis

12-3 60

2.

Montrose Christian 7-5 52

3.

St. Andrew’s

11-1 48

4.

Springbrook

9-1 44

5.

Gaithersburg

10-1 35

6.

Rockville

8-2 29

6.

Montgomery Blair 9-2 26

8.

Clarksburg

8-3 15

9.

Walt Whitman

9-3 11

10.

Poolesville

8-2 10

Blazers open season with 5-1-1 mark thanks to talented junior class n

BY

STAFF WRITER

Others receiving votes:

None.

BEST BET

Springbrook at Clarksburg, 5:15 p.m. Friday: Four versatile

scorers — Springbrook’s Robinson twins, Clarksburg’s Josh Hardy and Xavier Sewell — square off.

TOP SCORERS

Name, school A. Trier, Montrose Christian J. Friedman, Sandy Spring W. English, McLean I. Kallon, Wheaton M. Adkison, St. Andrew’s N. Segura, The Heights J. Bradshaw, Einstein I. Grigsby, The Heights K. Williams, Kennedy T. Stottlemyer, Poolesville

PPG 26.9 26.2 23.3 21.4 20.8 20.2 19.0 18.9 18.3 18.1

GIRLS The 10 best girls’ basketball teams in Montgomery County as ranked by The Gazette’s sports staff:

Rank 1.

School

2.

Record Pts

Damascus

11-2 60

Paint Branch

10-1 54

3.

John F. Kennedy

7-1 45

4.

Walt Whitman

10-2 44

4.

Good Counsel

8-5 36

6.

Poolesville

9-1 31

7.

Seneca Valley

8-3 24

8.

Holy Child

11-3 15

9.

Montgomery Blair 9-2 14

10.

Thomas S. Wootton 7-4 5

Others receiving votes:

James H. Blake, 2.

BEST BET

Wootton at Gaithersburg, 7 p.m. Friday: The Patriots (7-4, 4-0)

take a five-game winning streak into Gaithersburg (6-4, 3-1).

TOP SCORERS

Name, school K. Prange, Damascus B. Beckwith, Quince Orchard S. Addison, Wootton D. Harris, Paint Branch W. Carmack, Poolesville J. Karim-Duvall, Churchill K. Meredith, Northwest K. Colston, Paint Branch D. Lerner, Jewish Day D. Walker, Watkins Mill

1905969

TOM FEDOR/THE GAZETTE

Complicated

Northwood High School’s Christian Reyes (front) played last fall with a torn ACL and suffered compartment syndrome following surgery.

CHRISTIAN REYES:

RETURN

BY

ERIC GOLDWEIN STAFF WRITER

It started with pop. In September’s season-opener, Northwood High School football player Christian Reyes sacked Poolesville’s quarterback and took a cleat to his right knee. The second-team All-Gazette kicker and talented defensive lineman said he heard “a huge pop” in his right leg and suspected the injury was serious, but carried on throughout the fall.

Despite the injured knee, Reyes, who is right-footed, averaged 40.6 yards

Northwood kicker suffers setback following routine ACL surgery

n

per punt and was perfect as a field goal kicker. The junior converted all 13 extra point attempts, both of his field goals and had two punts for more than 60 yards, according to Northwood coach Dennis Harris.

“I always felt a tingle and a little spasm attack every time I punted, but I’ve been to so many punting camps that I developed the instinct,” Reyes said.

Reyes was also a force on the defensive line, recording 39 tackles, four sacks and nine tackles for loss.

“It didn’t appear to slow him down

at all,” senior teammate Lucas Kane said. “I honestly forgot that his knee was even bothering him.”

After Northwood’s 2-8 season ended, Reyes had the knee checked out and was diagnosed with a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and a strained posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). He had surgery on Dec. 23, but that’s when the worst of it came.

Complications followed the ACL surgery and Reyes, 16, was diagnosed with compartment syndrome: a poten

See RETURN, Page B-2

Before the season started, Montgomery Blair High School’s co-op ice hockey team had two factors that were arguably working against it.

The first, and one that was resolved rather quickly, was that it appeared as though Blair would exceed the number of players from one school who were allowed to participate on a co-op team, forcing the Blazers to play as a single-school club. That turned out not to be the case, however, as Kevin McCabe’s team powered forward with the same makeup it’s had in past seasons.

The second, and more intangible factor, was wondering how the team would respond given that the roster didn’t contain a single senior.

Every player, from leading scorer Max Kronstadt (13 goals, 9 assists, 22 points) to freshman goalie Jake Zastrow, had no more than two years of varsity experience heading into the year. So, despite the fact that a significant amount of talent, especially on defense, was on Blair’s side, no one was quite sure how good the team would actually be.

“Truth be told, we’re a hair better than I thought we were going to be,” said McCabe, now in his 15th season.

“Somewhere along the line they got the hockey bug — playing in summer leagues, going to camps, making themselves upwardly mobile, striving to basically improve every aspect of their game — and it’s translated into more success for the team.”

Through seven games, the Blaz-

See BLAIR, Page B-2

BILL RYAN/THE GAZETTE

Montgomery Blair celebrates a goal against Northwest on Friday.

Damascus senior gives Hornets two helping hands Green gives top-ranked team another scoring option n

BY

PPG 19.7 18.7 18.4 17.6 17.4 17.4 17.0 16.9 16.8 16.7

NICK CAMMAROTA

ERIC GOLDWEIN STAFF WRITER

Some basketball players struggle using their off hands, but not Damascus High School’s Lauren Green. The senior shooting guard turned hers into an useful option.

Making plays with her left and right, Green is having her best high school season and has developed into one of Montgomery County’s top scoring threats. She is averaging 15.5 points

per game, using her versatile skill-set to help the Swarmin’ Hornets off to an 11-2 start.

“Because she uses both hands so well, she can get to the basket and score at any angle,” Damascus coach Steve Pisarski said.

Green said she has been working to improve her left hand since she started playing basketball about 10 years ago.

“When I was younger, my dad (Bob Green) really pushed to work my off-hand as well as my strong hand. ... Every drill that we did, we did it on the right side and the left side,” Green said.

See DAMASCUS, Page B-2

BILL RYAN/THE GAZETTE

Damascus High School’s Lauren Green has taken on an increased role this winter.

T HE G AZ ET T E

Page B-2

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

BLAIR

Continued from Page B-1 ers boast a 5-1-1 record in the MSHL with their only loss coming against the team ahead of them in the standings, the D.C. Stars (6-1-0). Alongside Kronstadt, junior captain Sebastian Rubenstein has contributed a significant chunk of offensive support with 10 goals and 11 assists (21 points). But make no mistake, said McCabe, this is far from a team with one or two standout individuals who make things work.

“This is probably the most balanced team I’ve had,” McCabe said. “I’ve had better hockey players in the past, but they can’t be on the ice at all times. With this group, I can take one line off the ice, replace them with five more guys and we’re not missing a beat.”

In addition to Kronstadt and Rubenstein, Kenny Johnson, Javy Lopez-Casertano, Ty Wilson, Eddie Ilgenfritz and Kristina Rexford all are part of the junior class that has been thrust into a leadership role one year early.

“Our juniors are trying to be there for the freshman like the seniors have been there for us in the past,” Rubenstein said.

“It’s different not having any seniors, but it could work to our advantage.”

After every game, Rubenstein is meticulous about hav-

BILL RYAN/THE GAZETTE

Montgomery Blair ice hockey coach Kevin McCabe talks to his team during periods on Friday. ing a lengthy team chat to break down what went well and what needs improvement. Whether it’s clearing the puck out of the defensive end or tightening positioning on the power play, the team always has plenty to discuss.

“One of the things our team has learned is that we kind of feel like we haven’t played our best game yet this year,” Ru-

benstein said. “We’re trying to get better each and every week and hopefully we can keep it up.”

McCabe said while the Blazers are strong defensively, they can also fly through the neutral zone and play fast when they need to.

His biggest concern this preseason was goaltending, which has been addressed by

BILL RYAN/THE GAZETTE

the rapidly-improving Zastrow (4.71 GAA).

“He’s not Dominik Hasek yet, but he’s athletic and playing well enough for us to win,” McCabe said.

Johnson, another member of the talented junior class, said he also didn’t expect Blair to be quite this good at the start of the season, but also is aware of the opportunity ahead to cre-

Montgomery Blair ice hockey player Sebastian Rubinstein skates against Northwest on Friday. ate some special memories if all goes well.

“In the big games when it’s close, we’re the people that coach looks for to get us out of those tough situations and to get some goals up on the board,” Johnson said.

“I don’t think having no seniors holds us back at all. We’re out there to play as a team and if you go out there and play as a

RETURN

DAMASCUS

tially life-threatening condition occurring when excessive pressure builds up in an enclosed body space. The condition can sometimes result in paralysis.

Reyes said he had “a huge blood clot” in his calf and his swollen leg was “about as big as a basketball and as hard as a rock.”

On Christmas, the kicker underwent surgery at the Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, D.C. He remained there for more than two weeks, undergoing several procedures on his leg.

Reyes said he was transferred to Georgetown Hospital on Monday.

“It was really tough for me,” Reyes said. “And it’s still tough for me right now to accept the fact that I’m really hurt and I can’t do anything about it.”

The timing could not have been worse for Reyes, who is trying to earn a football scholarship.

“I just don’t want my parents to pay a dime for college,” he said.

But he remains optimistic that he can return and said he feels fortunate that the symptoms weren’t worse. He estimated that he would be 70 percent healthy next season, adding that it could take two years to fully recover.

There are risks; Reyes said that playing football could increase the chance of symptoms returning in the future.

“That’s definitely a tough situation and like I told him, it’s about him being healthy,” Harris said. “Don’t worry about trying to rush back

A decade later, that’s paying off. Green makes left-handed shots — ranging up to 10-feet — with regularity, Pisarski said.

Green, 5-foot-8, is scoring from all over the court, Pisarski said.

“She’s got a great basketball mind, she’s got that basketball mentality,” Pisarski said. “She thinks the game very well.”

Green’s right-handed shot is pretty good, too. She leads the Swarmin’ Hornets in 3-pointers (20) and is nearly perfect at the free-throw line (52-61).

“Overall, it’s my best year so far,” Green said.

The sharp shooting isn’t just improving Green’s statistics; it’s freeing up space for Damascus’ leading-scorer Kelli Prange, who demands extra attention from opposing defenses.

“It’s a huge bonus for me,” said Prange, who averages 19.3 points. “... Once they start doubling down on me, we’re able to kick it back out and there’s Lauren Green for the three.”

Green has been hot in Damascus’ current four-game winning streak, putting up big numbers against some of the county’s best teams: Paint Branch (10-1), Poolesville (9-1), Seneca Valley (8-3) and Gaithersburg (6-4).

Green scored 15 points against Poolesville and had a 16-point game against Seneca Valley, helping Damascus remain undefeated (4-0) in the Montgomery 3A/2A Division.

“I think our coaches have done a really god job of keeping us focused,” Green said. “...

All the girls are coming together really well and supporting each other. It’s making for a lot of

team, the goals will come.”

Added McCabe: “It’s encouraging for me as a coach to see that kind of intensity and that kind of camaraderie because it doesn’t come along very often. If you play poker long enough, you get dealt a good hand. And as a coach, I’ve been dealt a good hand.” ncammarota@gazette.net

Continued from Page B-1

Continued from Page B-1

TOM FEDOR/THE GAZETTE

Northwood’s Christian Reyes (left) slaps Fofie Bazzle on the back after a defensive tackle against Walter Johnson on Oct. 17 in Silver Spring. and play football. You have your entire life to live and you don’t want do something to jeopardize that.”

Reyes said he was unsure

when he would be released from the hospital and would return to school in a wheelchair on Jan. 27 at the earliest.

“I still believe that after

every surgery, I’m going to come back stronger. I know that for sure,” Reyes said. egoldwein@gazette.net

BRIAN LEWIS/FOR THE GAZETTE

Damascus’s Lauren Green helps diversify the Swarmin’ Hornets offense with her outside shooting.

team chemistry which carries onto the court.”

Green scored a team-high 24 points and collected nine rebounds in Damascus’ Jan. 4 victory against Paint Branch (67-58), while Prange scored 22 and senior Jenna Kaufman added 10.

“We’re not a one-person show, but we do have a bunch of different people, including Lauren, who can lead us in scoring every night,” Pisarski said.

Damascus went 22-3 last season and advanced to the 3A state semifinals after winning the 3A West Region. Green, who signed with Bentley University, is hoping this year’s team can take the next step.

“I just want to be able to help ... and just keep improving so that I can help myself, as well as the team,” Green said. egoldwein@gazette.net

THE GAZETTE

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

Page B-3

Damascus hands Gaithersburg first loss Swarmin’ Hornets pick up signature victory by shocking Trojans

n

History wasn’t doing the Damascus High School boys’ basketball team any favors when it visited undefeated Gaithersburg Friday night.

The Swarmin’ Hornets were always competitive, having five of their eight losses decided by 11 points or less, including a two-point loss to Central Valley, a six-point loss to Clarksburg, another two-point heartbreaker to Watkins Mill and another sixpoint loss to Bethesda-Chevy Chase. The problem? Free

BOYS BASKETBALL NOTEBOOK

GREG DOHLER/THE GAZETTE

BY TRAVIS MEWHIRTER throw shooting.

Combined between the losses to the Coyotes, Wolverines and Barons, Damascus went 39-for-71 from the line, a ghastly 55 percent. So forgive coach Butch Marshall if he wasn’t brimming with confidence when the Trojans began fouling to stop the clock on Friday night.

But then something strange happened: the Hornets made 8-of-9 in the final four minutes to seal a 61-56 upset of the thenNo. 3 Trojans, ruining Gaithersburg’s shot at perfection.

Stephon Jacob went 4-for-5 in scoring 21 points, Matthew Torrence 4-for-4, and Joseph Daniels 2-for-2.

“It should give us a lot more confidence, especially when we step up to the line,” Marshall said. “It gave our guys the confidence that you can go into any environment and win. We’ve had that a couple times where we have the opportunities and miss the free throws. It was a big plus because when we have a lead and they’re fouling, when you knock those down it makes a big, big difference.”

Marshall made sure to note that Gaithersburg was without leading scorer Anthony Tarke (17.8 ppg), who rolled his ankle in a 52-48 win over Quince Orchard two nights before, and

Betsy Knox (right) of Walt Whitman High School looks to shoot against Maggie McClain of host Montgomery Blair on Friday.

TOM FEDOR/THE GAZETTE

Gaithersburg High School’s Aaron King (front) was not at full strength due to injury when the Trojans were upset by Damascus on Friday. that point guard Aaron King also wasn’t fully healthy, having hurt his back and operating at what Gaithersburg coach Tom Sheahin estimated to be “75 percent.”

“We were banged up but Damascus had a great game plan, awesome game plan, and they spread us out,” Sheahin said. “It just seemed like they got every loose ball, even balls that were tipped out of bounds seemed to go their way.”

Any bounces from the rim weren’t helping, either. The Trojans made just one field goal in a 3-point second quarter to head into the half down 23-18 and played from behind for the remainder of the game.

Sheahin, while disappointed by the loss, wasn’t crushed by it. It was an out-ofconference game still early in the season with two of his best playmakers either out or nagged by an injury. Tarke had warmed up, testing out the ankle, before the coach ultimately decided to sit him.

“We start out with 10 of our first 13 games on the road,” Sheahin said. “If you would have told me we’d be 10-1 at this point in the season, I’d be very happy. Very rarely in sports does somebody go undefeated, it’s a hard thing to do.”

The Trojans responded by attending a voluntary team practice the next morning at 8:30 — an hour and a half before the scheduled start time of 10 a.m.

“The big thing was we handled it really well,” Sheahin said.

“They handled it very well.”

Unfortunately for Damascus, any momentum from the win will essentially stop there.

The Hornets have an 11-day layoff for exams before getting a rematch with the Wolverines.

“I wish we could play tonight, tomorrow night, last night,” Marshall joked. “Everything kind of aligned for us.” tmewhirter@gazette.net

Georgetown Prep sweeps key meet Little Hoyas dominate rivals DeMatha, Gonzaga n

The Georgetown Prep swimming and diving team defeated three-time defending Washington Metropolitan Interscholastic Swimming and Diving champion and historical rival DeMatha in a tri-meet held Saturday in Bethesda.

The Little Hoyas, who are undefeated to start the 2013-14

PREP NOTEBOOK

BY GAZETTE STAFF season and poised to have a successful championship season, prevailed 101-85 over Gonzaga and 130-50 over DeMatha. Prep won 10 of 12 events Saturday and finished two in the top three of six races.

The Little Hoyas’ tremendous junior class accounted for five of eight individual events.

Grant Goddard and Carsten Vissering won two events apiece. Both have broken Prep pool records early this winter, Goddard in the 200-yard freestyle and Vissering in the 200yard individual medley.

— JENNIFER BEEKMAN

Richard Montgomery’s Song to swim at Columbia There are no athletic scholarships offered in Ivy League sports but after giving his verbal commitment to swim at Columbia University, Richard Montgomery senior Gregory Song recently signed a document that for all intents and purposes acted as his national letter of intent to swim for the Lions in 2014-15. A top 10 indi-

vidual scorer at last year’s Metros, Song has been integral in the Rockets’ recent success. A third-place finisher at last winter’s state championship meet, Richard Montgomery is making quite the campaign for itself as a major postseason contender this championship season. With Saturday’s win over defending state runner-up Montgomery Blair, the Rockets remain the only undefeated boys’ team in the county’s top division with Saturday’s contest against a .500 Winston Churchill team closing out its division schedule.

— JENNIFER BEEKMAN

Tilton continues to impress on QO’s mat Quince Orchard heavyweight wrestler Connor Tilton maintained his impressive start to the season by scoring a big win against Urbana’s Nick Keller in the championship match of the Hub Cup Tournament at North Hagerstown High School. A tournament that always features a stacked field of competition, Tilton added this win to his Mad Mats title from December and appears on track to potentially better his third-place finish in the state tournament from a season ago.

— NICK CAMMAROTA

Clarksburg performs well at Montgomery Invite The Coyotes had a strong showing at Saturday’s Montgomery Invitational indoor track meet with Claudia Ababio, Alexus Pyles and Carlos Vanzego all placing at the event.

Ababio, a senior shot putter, tookfirstplace(42feet,4.5inches).

Pyles, a sophomore, placed sec-

GREG DOHLER/THE GAZETTE

Carlos Vanzego of Clarksburg competes in the triple jump finals Saturday during the Montgomery County Invitational.

ond in the high jump (5-4) and third in the 55-meter hurdles (8.43 seconds). Vanzego, who started jumping last spring, recorded a personal best in the triple jump (45-09) and finished second.

“He’s really, really progressed a lot. It’s exciting,” Clarksburg coach Scott Mathias said.

Montgomery County had several second-place finishers, including John F. Kennedy’s Devon Hairston (55 hurdles), Col. Zadok Magruder’s Bethany White (55), Thomas S. Wootton’s Urgy Eado (800), Poolesville’s Chase Weaverling (3,200), Walt Whitman’s Clare Severe (mile) and Richard Montgomery’s boys 3,200 relay team.

— ERIC GOLDWEIN

Whitman takes control of 4A South Division Good Counsel has won three of past four games n

The Walt Whitman High School girls’ basketball team doesn’t have one top scorer; it has about five. Sophomore Marie Hatch is leading the team with just 10.1 points per game, but the Vikings (10-2, 5-0) have several players capable of taking over on any given night. Lately, freshman guard Abby Meyers has carried the offense. She tallied a personal best 15 points in Friday’s 65-38 victory over Montgomery Blair and a team-high 12 points in a win over Richard Montgomery.

“She fits right in, like you wouldn’t even know that she’s a freshman,” senior Avery Witt said. “She goes out on the court and plays so well. I love it.”

Whitman has won nine

GIRLS BASKETBALL NOTEBOOK

BY ERIC GOLDWEIN straight and is in first place in the Montgomery 4A South Division after ending Blair’s (9-2, 4-1) eight-game winning streak. The Vikings’ last loss came Dec. 14 against private school Bishop McNamara.

Winston Churchill (6-6, 3-2) has won three straight and sits in third place in the division after defeating Walter Johnson, Bethesda-Chevy Chase and Richard Montgomery. The Bulldogs are undefeated since their Jan. 4 overtime loss to Blair.

Good Counsel gains steam Our Lady of Good Counsel rebounded from a tough

loss to Bishop McNamara with a 65-50 victory over St. Mary’s Ryken (5-8) last week followed by a 62-57 win over Georgetown Visitation (10-2), and has now won three of its last four games.

Senior Stacey Koutris stepped up in the last two wins, scoring a combined 35 points. Junior Nicole Enabosi is averaging a teamhigh 11.1 points and has hit double-figures in all but three games. The Falcons (8-5, 3-2) are competing for a top spot in the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference. Paul VI Catholic (11-3, 6-0) and Elizabeth Seton (12-3, 6-1) rank first and second in the WCAC, respectively. egoldwein@gazette.net

THE GAZETTE

Page B-4

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

Patience a virtue Churchill swimmer not defined by struggles for Whitman Overcoming injuries

Two years of shoulder issues did not prevent Tiberino from being one of Bulldogs’ most reliable scorers n

Vikings thrive on long possessions and smart shot selection n

BY JENNIFER BEEKMAN STAFF WRITER

BY TRAVIS MEWHIRTER STAFF WRITER

RAPHAEL TALISMAN/FOR THE GAZETTE

Churchill swim team’s Alicia Tiberino warms up before her team’s meet against Walter Johnson at Montgomery College in Takoma Park on Saturday afternoon. a championship team have also been integral to the program, Roddy said. Those qualities, along with Tiberino’s sheer racing abilities, make her vital in the lead-off position in the 200- and 400-yard freestyle relays.

The Bulldogs won the 400-yard freestyle relay at last year’s Metros in an automatic All-American time of 2 minutes, 28.01 seconds and finished second in the 200-yard freestyle relay to a Katie Ledeckyled Stone Ridge squad. “[Tiberino] understands the dynamics of a team and that it’s more than just the top stars or herself,” Roddy said. “Everyone makes a difference. She is a mental swimmer, she gets herself amped and ready to compete and she steps up no matter who is in the lane next to her.”

It’s hard to derail Tiberino, these past two years have shown that — she said she is stronger for what she’s been through. With her shoulder feeling 100 percent for the first time in a long time, Tiberino is poised for a strong championship season.

“Basically I swam through [the injury], I didn’t want to start back at the bottom [if I took time off],” Tiberino said. “I’ve been through terrible pain, I don’t take it for granted when I feel amazing.” jbeekman@gazette.net

RAPHAEL TALISMAN/FOR THE GAZETTE

Churchill swim team’s Alicia Tiberino swims the 100 meter freestyle at a meet against Walter Johnson at Montgomery College in Takoma Park on Saturday afternoon.

Bolted tightly a few feet above the basketball hoops at Walt Whitman High School are square, black Daktronics shot clocks. As for nearly every boys’ game, it remains blank, just a barely noticeable decoration above the hoop.

And that portends some very good things for this year’s Vikings.

The Maryland Public Secondary Schools Athletic Association has not yet adopted a shot clock for boys’ basketball. Teams can drag out possessions for as long as they please, which has resulted in some textbook, fundamental and unselfish basketball for the 9-3 Vikings.

During a critical 4A South Division matchup with Richard Montgomery on Jan. 8, the ninthranked Vikings drove and dished, swung the ball around the perimeter and, finally, when all that movement begat an open jumper or layup, the opponents defense thoroughly scrambled, the ball went up. Forty-nine percent of the time, the shot went in, and the result was a 49-24 victory over the then-No. 10 Rockets.

“We did a really good job staying patient, getting the shots we wanted,” Vikings coach Chris Lun said. “That’s one of the things we stressed. We can’t let teams force us into doing what they want to do and [Jan. 8] we did a good job doing what we wanted to do.

We were pretty patient tonight.

We didn’t have many turnovers, didn’t force many bad shots.”

There is a drill that Whitman runs in practice called the “Kansas drill.” It’s a game to 50. Each pass in the offense is worth one, a made basket is two, so quick shots are more severely punished than a real game situation where points only come when the ball goes through the hoop. The daily repetition of Kansas drills has produced an uber-efficient offense that hovers around 50 percent shooting while blowing teams out by an average of 19.8 through their first nine wins.

“We’ve been really practicing on offense being patient,” said Riley Shaver, who scored a gamehigh 17 points against Richard Montgomery. “By doing that, we took them out of their rhythm and it took them out of their game. We just took the right shots.”

There are two oft-cited clichés in sports: “defense wins championships,” and the flip side to that, “the best defense is a good offense.” Lun has found a way to combine the two, with a small

1905974

If there is one thing swimmers do well, it’s push themselves to extraordinary heights. Therefore, as one of the Washington, D.C. area’s fastest sprinters, it goes completely against Winston Churchill High School senior Alicia Tiberino’s nature to hold back.

It was the inherent internal drive of a swimmer that kept her competitive during two years of shoulder issues that started in 2011, but her body’s limitations that prevented her from going all out the way every fiber in her being wanted to.

“I’m a sprinter, I have to move my arms fast but it hurt,” Tiberino said. “I was always thinking, ‘Don’t push too hard, don’t push too hard,’ and everyone was passing me. It was terrible.”

No one could have blamed Tiberino for walking away from the sport; she said her parents even asked her on occasion why she put herself through so much pain. It was for the hope of swimming best times again, for helping Churchill compete for another Metros title, and for milestones like signing her letter of intent in the fall to compete at the Division I level next year at Saint Francis (Pa.) University. Tiberino waited out the storm and these days is pain-free for the first time in a long time, she said, which can only mean good things for the undefeated Bulldogs as they look to reclaim the Metros title from defending champion Thomas S. Wootton.

“I knew I didn’t want to quit,” Tiberino said. “I love how I feel in the water when you’re just going fast. That’s not something I wanted to let go of. ... At the beginning of this year it didn’t hurt anymore and I felt like a new person.”

Tiberino is used to defying odds. At 5-foot-4 on a good day, she is typically smaller than most of her competitors and often reminded of the challenges that presents. But she refused to be defined by the recent shoulder injury, she said. Tiberino kept the pain and frustration to herself and went about her business, scoring points for Churchill and embracing her role as an important team leader and role model for younger athletes.

Brendan Roddy said he had no idea how much pain Tiberino was in, and how would he? It was not reflected in her results.

As a freshman, she helped Churchill win its second Metros title in three years with 35 points, second only to then junior Natalya Ares, who is currently in her sophomore season at Division I University of Richmond. As a sophomore, Tiberino racked up 36 points off two top 6 individual results and last winter, finished fifth in the 100yard freestyle.

Though Tiberino might not be Churchill’s highest scorer, her consistency is invaluable, Roddy said. Every single point matters at a championship meet — Churchill won the 2012 title by two points and finished second by six points in 2013 — and she has been among the Bulldogs’ top contributors since her freshman year.

Her ability to understand how meets work and the team effort that goes into creating

TOM FEDOR/THE GAZETTE

Walt Whitman High School’s Riley Shaver is a part of the boys’ basketball team’s success.

tweak: the best defense can be a patient offense, which leads to wins.

Lun has been coaching the Vikings for a decade now. He has seenwhathappenstohighschoolers when an opposing team runs through their offensive sets for a minute, 90 seconds, two minutes: they want the ball back so they can score. Defense isn’t glamorous, and being on that side of the ball is exhausting, arduous work. As the Vikings wore down the Rockets through pass after pass, layup after layup, Richard Montgomery became more prone to hoisting up quick, forced shots that rarely found the net (the Rockets shot just 9-of-44 from the field) when they had the ball in their hands.

“That’s the goal,” Lun said.

“We stress that because if teams make us work, we come down and we want to go get that quick shot because we’re tired of playing defense and then we’re playing defense again. We’re not stall ball but we’re being patient.”

Sophomore shooting guard Kyle Depollar, a transfer from The Heights and the team’s leading scorer, recalled a time when the Vikings were a little more liable to take unadvisable shots. The first such occasion, the season-opener against Georgetown Prep, wasn’t entirely their fault because there was a shot clock that maxed their possessions at 35 seconds. The second, a 52-47 loss to Rockville, still stings a bit. The Vikings held an 11-point lead in the fourth quarter before taking the bait and running with the Rams, diving headlong into a fast-paced game that ultimately led to their demise.

“We definitely learned from that,” Depollar said. “We learned that when we have a lead, we need to be a lot more patient and just win the game.”

Nine wins succeeded that pair of opening losses, three by 30-point margins and another three by at least 15. During that run, only three teams broke into the 50s, and none scored more than 52. tmewhirter@gazette.net

MOVIE REVIEW

&

The Gazette’s Guide to

Arts & Entertainment

A TOUGH, TRUE TALE

Dancers

SEAL team tragedy the focus of brutal, but honorable action film. Page B-9

www.gazette.net

|

Wednesday, January 15, 2014

|

Page B-5

Members of the visiting Dayton Contemporary dance company will perform in “Emergence,” a program featuring original

DAYTON

FROM

works by CityDance resident choreographer Robert Priore, on Saturday and Sunday at the CityDance Studio Theater at Strathmore in North Bethesda.

GEEKWITHALENSPHOTOGRAPHY

BY

VIRGINIA TERHUNE STAFF WRITER

A CityDance choreographer premieres piece for renowned Ohio troupe n

T H E

After graduating from Point Park University in Pittsburgh, choreographer Robert Priore spent a year dancing with Ohio’s renowned Dayton Contemporary Dance Company in Ohio.

Now it’s the company’s time to journey east and visit him for the first time in North Bethesda, where he is resident choreographer for the CityDance Conservatory at Strathmore.

F I L L M O R E

S I L V E R

The Dayton troupe will perform a piece it commissioned from Priore as part of “Emergence,” a program entirely choreographed by Priore, running Saturday and Sunday at the CityDance Studio Theater at Strathmore.

“It’s my first stab at creating a night all by myself,” said Priore. “It’s all my vocabulary and my vision.”

Priore said he’s been working on the program since August and initially thought of dancing in it himself, but decided instead to step back and focus on the big picture.

“I had wanted to dance, but I thought if I wanted to really convey [what I want to convey], I had better take myself out,” he said.

The Dayton Contemporary Dance Company was founded in 1968 by dancer and future MacArthur “Genius” grant recipient Jeraldyne Blunden, who died in 1999. The company is presently run by her daughter (Debbie Blunden-Diggs), Priore said.

Priore danced with DCDC’s second company for a year and also choreo-

S P R I N G

A rock-solid education n

Young musicians ready to rock this weekend BY

CARA HEDGEPETH STAFF WRITER

According to Laura Bollettino, executive director at the School of Rock of Silver Spring, the philosophy behind the unconventional music school is “if you tell [children] they can do something, then they think they can and they do it.”

“You tell them, get on-stage at The Fillmore and they say, ‘Yeah, why wouldn’t I get on stage at The Fillmore?’” Bollettino said. “Any adult would be paralyzed with fear.”

Students from the School of

Rock in Silver Spring will prove Bollettino right on Sunday when they take the stage at the venue. The afternoon concert will showcase musicians from the school’s School of Rock 101 program, Performance Program, Adult Program, Silver Spring School of Rock House Band and special guest performers, Philadelphia-based Swift Technique. There will be a second show at Comet Ping Pong in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 26.

School of Rock was founded in 1998 by Paul Green.

There are currently more than 15,000 students enrolled in 125 schools across seven countries.

See ROCK, Page B-9

SCHOOL OF ROCK n When: 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 19 n Where: Fillmore Silver Spring, 8656 Colesville Road, Silver Spring n Tickets: $15 n For information: 301-9609999, fillmoresilver spring.com

Crystina Martinez, 15, sings during a School of Rock performance in downtown Silver Spring.

LAURA BOLLETTINO

EMERGENCE n When: 8 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 18; 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 19 n Where: CityDance Studio Theater, Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda

graphed two pieces for the troupe, which encouraged him to keep at it.

In “Emergence” there are four new works and six others that have been performed before, said Piore, who is presenting the show with a mix of Dayton dancers and current and former students of the Conservatory.

See DANCERS, Page B-9

n Tickets: $25 for general admission, $20 for university students n For information: 301-581-5204, Citydance.net

THE GAZETTE

Page B-6

Sense ANDPlace

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

Resident artists’ work in the spotlight

SUSAN SHALOWITZ

The Capitol Arts Network continues to spotlight “Its Own” to Jan. 25 with its inaugural resident artists’ exhibition. Pictured: “Tiger wading” by Susan Shalowitz.

The Capitol Arts Network will continue to spotlight “Its Own,” to Jan. 25 as part of an inaugural resident artists’ exhibition at the gallery in Rockville’s Twinbrook district. The January show is designed to be the first in a series of periodic exhibits highlighting the work of its more than 50 resident artists.

Thirty-seven painters, sculptors, photographers and additional artisans already working in Capitol Arts Network studios are slated to take part, as well as newcomers who will become residents of the organization’s new 16-studio annex in January. For more information, visit www.capitolartsnetwork.com.

Crank it up!

PHOTO LISA ELMALEH

Appalachian singers Anna Roberts-Gevalt and Elizabeth LaPrelle have revived the traditional art of “crankies,” and incorporated it into their show which combines fiddle and banjo music, ballads, harmony singing, storytelling and flatfoot dancing.

Audiences are invited to discover “Crankies” during an Appalachian music workshop and concert hosted by Elizabeth LaPrelle and Anna Roberts-Gevalt on Saturday. The workshop is scheduled for 4-6 p.m., with the concert to follow at 8 p.m. at Seeker’s Church, 276 Carroll Street, NW, Washington, DC., across the street from the Takoma Station on Metro’s Red Line. Long before the advent of YouTube, “crankies” created the effect of an animate tapestry via hand-cranked illustrations on a roll of fabric.

Roberts-Gevalt and LapRelle incorporate the lost art into their concert, combining fiddle and banjo music, ballads, harmonizing, storytelling and flatfoot dancing. Tickets to either the workshop or the concert are $15 for members, or $20 for general admission. Combination tickets are $25 for members, $30 for general admission. Visit www.fsgw.org.

Gabriela Martinez to perform at Strathmore Venezuelan pianist Gabriela Martinez will perform Bach’s “Concerto No. 1” with the National Philharmonic, under the direction of associate conductor Victoria Gau, at 8 p.m. Saturday at the Music Center at Strathmore in North Bethesda. Also on the program are Mozart’s “Divertimento K. 136 in D Major” and Schubert’s “Mass No. 2 in G Major.”

One of Bach’s most popular concertos, “Piano Concerto No. 1” was one of the first composed for the keyboard.

Martinez — orchestral soloist, chamber musician, recitalist — has performed in venues ranging from the Tokyo International Music Festival to Carnegie Hall. A free pre-concert lecture will be offered at 6:45 p.m. in the Concert Hall. For more information, visit www.strathmore.org.

MONICA TREJO

Pianist Gabriela Martinez will perform Bach’s “Concerto No. 1” on Saturday at the Music Center at Strathmore.

Jazz ramblers GURUJEET KHALSA

The Dixieland Express will return to Damascus’ Music Cafe from 8-10 p.m. Saturday. Founded in 1999, the Express has long

Photoworks will exhibit “So Much Depends,” images from award-winning photographer Gurujeet Khalsa, to Feb. 17 at the Glen Echo gallery.

“So Much Depends,” images from award-winning photographer Gurujeet Khalsa, continues to Feb. 17 at the Photoworks Gallery at Glen Echo Park. Featuring photographs from locations as diverse as Belize and the Pacific Northwest, Khalsa captures an inner landscape that transcends place. Exhibit hours are 1-4 p.m. Saturday and 1-8 p.m. Sunday, or by appointment. For more information, visit www.glenechophotoworks.org.

PHOTO BY JOEL ALBERT

(From left) Trumpet player Bob Vernier, trombonist John Stewart, drummer Joel Albert, tuba player Ken Carlson, banjo player Jules Levine and clarinetist Kirt Vener are the Dixieland Express.

1912452

1912204 1912202

delivered traditional New Orleans-style Dixieland jazz to fans throughout the Washington, D.C., area, performing at events such as the Kensington Summer Concert Series and alongside contemporaries the Potomac River Jazz Club. The Music Cafe is located at 26528 Ridge Road, Damascus.

For more information, visit www. the-music-cafe.com.

THE GAZETTE

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

Page B-7

‘I have a dream’: Diverse group of performers gather for MLK celebration Artists honor icon with 20th anniversary tribute celebration

n

BY

CARA HEDGEPETH STAFF WRITER

On Monday, the Montgomery County Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Committee invites 2,000 area residents to honor the Civil Rights icon with the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Birthday Tribute and Celebration.

The 90-minute concert marks the 20th anniversary of the event and will be held at the Music Center at Strathmore. The afternoon will feature a diverse group of performers and will award honorees who serve their community.

ABC 7 News anchor Leon Harris will serve as master of ceremonies. The event will feature local talent, including Washington, D.C., saxophonist Brian Lenair. Lenair, who performed at the tribute two years ago, is one of 11 acts sched-

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR., BIRTHDAY AND TRIBUTE CELEBRATION n When: 3 p.m. Monday, Jan. 20 n Where: The Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda n Tickets: Sold out, but a stand-by line begins at 2 p.m. outside the Music Center n For information: strathmore.org

uled for the celebration.

“We held a talent search back in October,” said Rachel Reed, program chair for the event.

Reed added that the panel of three judges was in search of performers who they felt were in line with the tribute celebration’s theme: “celebrate, serve, remember.” “[We wanted] finalists that we

felt ... had something that related to Martin Luther King’s purpose about serving and giving and about being together.”

The afternoon’s lineup alone is a realization of King’s dream.

“It does a great job of honoring him because there are so many different races, so many different creeds coming together,” said Lenair. “It’s very diverse. It has all different types of singing groups.”

Lenair, who released his smooth jazz CD, “Eye of the Storm,” two years ago, said he will most likely play some original music, a gospel song and a rendition of the Beatles’ “Come Together.”

Other performances include a song from a group of hearing and deaf students at Cashell Elementary School who will sing and sign a song dedicated to King. Students from the Washington Dunhuang Guzheng Academy will perform on the guzheng, a traditional Chinese string instrument.

Saxophonist Brian Lenair is just one of the performers who will appear at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Tribute Celebration on Monday.

ROY COX STUDIOS

chedgepeth@gazette.net

IN THE ARTS DANCES Carpe Diem Contra Dance, Feb. 13, Caller: Ann Fallon, Music

by Gary Wright and Leah Weiss with Ahren Buchheister, 7-7:30 p.m. contradance workshops, 7:30-10 p.m. Contras & Squares, second Thursdays, Great Hall, Silver Spring Civics Center, One Veterans Plaza, Silver Spring, $10 for general admission, $8 for members, $5 for students and those without income, www.carpediemarts.com.

Hollywood Ballroom, Jan. 15, Ballroom Bash from 8:30-10:30 p.m. ($16), Jan. 16, 23, Tea Dance from 12:30-3:30 p.m. ($6); Jan. 17, drop-in lessons from 7:30-9 p.m., West Coast Swing Dancing with Dance Jam Productions at 9 p.m. ($15); Jan. 18, Ballroom Bash, workshops from 6-9 p.m., dance from 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. ($25 for workshop and dance, $16 for dance only); Jan. 19, free Fox Trot

lesson at 7 p.m., Social Ballroom Dance at 8 p.m. ($16); Jan. 22, Ballroom Bash, 8:30-10:30 p.m. ($16), 2126 Industrial Highway, Silver Spring, 301-326-1181, www. hollywoodballroomdc.com Now and Then Dance Studio, Saturday ballroom dances, second and fourth Saturdays, beginner group lesson at 8 p.m., open dancing at 9 p.m., $10 cash at door (all men admitted at halfprice throughout October), 10111 Darnestown Road, Rockville. 301424-0007, www.nowandthendancestudios.com.

Glen Echo Park is at 7300 MacArthur Blvd.

Blues, Capital Blues: Thurs-

days, 8:15 p.m. beginner lesson, 9-11:30 p.m. dancing to DJs, Glen Echo Park’s Spanish Ballroom Annex, $8, www.capitalblues.org.

Contra, Jan. 17, David Giusti and Waverly Station, 7:30 p.m. lesson, 8:30 p.m. dance, Glen Echo Park Spanish Ballroom, $10, www.

fridaynightdance.org.

Contra & Square, Jan. 19, Perry Shafran with Sibling Ribaldry; Jan. 26, Valerie Helbert with STEAM, 7:30 p.m., Glen Echo Park Spanish Ballroom, $12 for general, $9 for members, $5 for students, www. fsgw.org.

English Country, Jan. 15, Caller: Tom Spilsbury; Jan. 22, Caller: Susan Taylor; Jan. 29, Caller: Stephanie Smith, 8 p.m., Glen Echo Town Hall (upstairs), www.fsgw.org.

Swing, Jan. 18, Naomi & Her Handsome Devils, lesson at 8 p.m., dancing at 9 p.m., Glen Echo Park, $15, www.flyingfeet.org.

Waltz, Jan. 19, Hickman, Glickman & Devine, 2:45-3:30 p.m. lesson, 3:30-6 p.m., dance, Glen Echo Park, $10, www.waltztimedances.org.

MUSIC & DANCE Arts Barn, Singer Songwriter Concert Series, Bonnie Whitmore

with Dede Wyland & Ira Gitlin, Jan. 23; Slaid Cleaves with Tony Denikos, Feb. 22, 3 p.m. workshops at the Arts Barn or Kentlands Mansion, 7:30 p.m. concerts at the Arts Barn, 311 Kent Square Road, Gaithersburg. 301-258-6394, www. gaithersburgmd.gov/artsbarn.

Bethesda Blues & Jazz Supper Club, Perry Conticchio

Quartet, 7:30 p.m. Jan. 15; Tizer featuring Karen Briggs, 8 p.m.

Jan. 16; Motown & More: Tribute to Legends of Motown & Soul, 8 p.m. Jan. 17; Popa Chubby, 8 p.m.

Jan. 18; The Soul Serenaders, 8 p.m. Jan. 19; Gotta Swing Dance Night with Bad Influence, 7:30 p.m. Jan. 22; Sammy Figueroa and his Latin Jazz Explosion, 8 p.m. Jan. 24, call for prices, 7719 Wisconsin Ave., Bethesda. 240330-4500, www.bethesdabluesjazz.com.

BlackRock Center for the Arts, The 9 Songwriters Series, 8 p.m. Jan. 18; Charlotte Blake Alston, 1 p.m.

Jan. 25; Hot Club of San Francisco and Cinema Vivant, 8 p.m. Jan. 25; call for tickets, 12901 Town Commons Drive, Germantown. 301-5282260, www.blackrockcenter.org.

Institute of Musical Traditions — Rockville, Claire Lynch Band,

7:30 p.m. Feb. 3; Nuala Kennedy, 7:30 p.m. Feb. 17; Carrie Newcomer, 7:30 p.m. March 8, Saint Mark Presbyterian Church, 10701 Old Georgetown Road, Rockville, call for prices, www.imtfolk.org.

Strathmore, Christie Dashiell, jazz vocalist, 7:30 p.m. Jan. 15, 29; Duo Sonidos, 7:30 p.m. Jan. 16; BSO: Beethoven and Mozart, 8 p.m. Jan. 16; Wired In: Web and Social Media,

10 a.m. Jan. 18; Children’s Talk and Tour, 10:15 a.m. Jan. 18; Art Talk, 1 p.m. Jan. 18; National Philharmonic: Three Great Classics, 8 p.m. Jan. 18; Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Birthday Tribute and Celebration, 3 p.m. Jan. 20; The 9 Songwriter Series Benefits: Ted Garber and Family, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 20; Artist in Residence Education Workshop with Christie Dashiell: A Jazz Journey, 7:30 p.m. Jan. 22; BSO: Marvin Hamlisch — One Singular Sensation, 8 p.m. Jan. 23; Jazz Vocal Intensive: Scat Singing 201, 10 a.m. Jan. 25, call for venue, Loca-

See IN THE ARTS, Page B-8

1912447

1912203

1912390

THE GAZETTE

Page B-8

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

Pitching in, helping out Musicians sing Monday at benefit for Garber family of Bethesda

n

BY

VIRGINIA TERHUNE STAFF WRITER

Local musicians are turning out in force to assist one of their own at a fundraising concert on Monday at the Mansion at Strathmore.

Presented by The 9 Songwriters Series, the concert is for guitarist Ted Garber of Bethesda, a singer/ songwriter of blues, rock and Americana, whose wife, Rebecca, is recovering from cancer surgery.

She is also undergoing chemotherapy after recently giving birth prematurely to their daughter, Sydney.

“I think in music communities when a fellow co-worker gets sick, people do their benefits,” said coorganizer Justin Trawick of Arlington, Va. “It’s the way we know how to help.”

Founder of The 9 Songwriters Series, guitarist Trawick is organizing the event with banjoist Cathy Fink of the Grammy-winning Cathy & Marcy [Marxer] duo from Kensington.

Joining them will be Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award-winner Tom Paxton and blues rocker Patty Reese, along with Songwriter regulars Jason Ager and Tiffany Thompson, who are performing at Strathmore for the first time.

Also part of the lineup are Christylez Bacon and Maureen Andary, former artists in residence at Strathmore, and Grammy-winner Jon Carroll, one of their mentors during their residencies.

Carroll and Fink were also mentors to Garber, an artist in residence during the 2011-2012 season.

GARBER FAMILY BENEFIT n When: 7:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 20 n Where: Mansion at Strathmore, 10701 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda n Tickets: $20 in advance; $25 at the door n For information: strathmore. org, Giveforward.com (type in Garber)

Fink said she has performed twice for the Songwriter series, which changes its lineup for every show.

During concerts, musicians each perform solo and also back each other up.

“It’s like a very fun whirlwind,” said Fink. “You have an extremely short period of time to present your song and collaborate with other singers and writers.”

Strathmore, the performers and the sound engineer are donating their space, time and efforts for the Garber concert, she said.

There will also be a silent auction with items such as tickets to Strathmore events, music-related gear, a guitar track donated by a well-known musician and possibly some donated studio time, said Fink.

Proceeds will help cover the costs of hospital and outpatient treatments, medical support and general living expenses that include long hotel stays near Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. “[Ted] is cutting back on his shows so he can be present with [his wife and daughter],” Fink said.

BLACKROCK CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Guitarist Jason Trawick (second from left) of Arlington, Va., founded The 9 Songwriters Series in 2008. The group of performers sing solo and also collaborate for concerts, with lineups that change for each show.

Keeping time with The 9 Singers collaborate, go solo, at BlackRock on Saturday n

vterhune@gazette.net

BY

VIRGINIA TERHUNE STAFF WRITER

PHOTO BY STEPHANIE POTTER

Local musicians associated with The 9 Songwriter Series are donating their time on Monday at the Mansion at Strathmore for a concert to benefit guitarist Ted Garber (pictured), whose wife, Rebecca, is battling cancer.

Nine different performers for the price of one.

That’s what you get with a ticket to The 9 Songwriters Series concert at the BlackRock Center for the Arts on Saturday in Germantown.

“As singer-songwriters, we’re always struggling to get out of that bar atmosphere and get into larger venues,” said Justin Trawick of Arlington, Va., who first developed the idea in 2008.

“It’s tough, if you don’t have the drawing power alone,” he said. “But with a combination in a collective, you have the influence to pack the room.”

Performing Saturday will be guitarist Trawick, Margot MacDonald, Ryan Walker,

IN THE ARTS

Continued from Page B-7

tions: Mansion, 10701 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda; Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, 301-581-5100, www.strathmore.org.

ON STAGE Adventure Theatre, “Miss Nel-

Andy Zipf, Amanda Lee, Bradley Rhodes, Victoria Vox, Justin Jones and Don Kim. “We’reallveryprofessional in our own right,” said Trawick about the range of music offered to audiences — everything from folk and Americana to pop, R&B and jazz.

The nature of the show depends on the lineup, which varies with every concert.

“It’s always original, and it’s fun,” he said.

Each performer sings several songs, with the sequence of singers randomly determined by picking names out of a hat.

“When they’re on stage, they can do whatever they want,” Trawick said.

Performers may also ask other singers to lend backup on instruments or vocals.

“It’s very relaxed,” said Cathy Fink, of the Cathy & Marcy duo, which has performed twice with the series.

“There’s a good vibe from [the performers] and the au-

son is Missing,” Jan. 17 to March 9, call for prices, times, Adventure Theatre MTC, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, 301-634-2270, www.adventuretheatre-mtc.org.

Arts Barn, “Blame it On Beckett,” 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays, to Jan. 26, 311 Kent Square Road, Gaithersburg, 301-258-6394, www.gaithersburgmd.gov/artsbarn.

Imagination Stage, “Rumpelstiltskin,” Feb. 5 to March 16, call

dience,” she said.

There’s also a spontaneous feeling about the Songwriters shows, because the performers don’t have much time to rehearse with one another.

“It’s sort of spur of the moment, and we fly by the seat of our pants,” Trawick said.

The concerts offer the performers a sometimes rare chance to work with other musicians, he said.

Focusing just on developing your own career can be “a lonely business,” Trawick said.

“You can get very independent,” he said. “You enjoy the collaboration with other artists.”

Trawick has duplicated his local success by tapping into his growing network of singer-songwriters to present The 9 concerts up and down the East Coast and in California.

“I’ve got them in my

for prices, times, Imagination Stage, 4908 Auburn Ave., Bethesda, www. imaginationstage.org Olney Theatre Center, “How to Succeed in Business Without Even Trying,” Jan. 29 to Feb. 23; call for prices, times, 2001 Olney-Sandy Spring Road, Olney, 301-924-3400, www.olneytheatre.org.

The Puppet Co., “Tales of Beatrix Potter,” Jan. 17 to Feb. 9; Tiny Tots @ 10, select Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, call for shows and show times, Puppet Co. Playhouse, Glen Echo Park’s North Arcade Building, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., $5, 301-634-5380, www. thepuppetco.org.

Round House Theatre, Bethesda, “Seminar,” Feb. 5 to March 4, 4545 East-West Highway, Bethesda. 240-644-1100, www. roundhousetheatre.org.

Round House Theatre, Silver Spring, “Impossible! A Happenstance Circus,” Jan. 31 to Feb. 9, call for show times, 8641 Colesville Road, Silver Spring, $15 for general admission, $10 for subscribers, pa-

w No ing! w Sho F.

Scott Fitzgerald Theater

603 Edmonston Dr. Rockville, MD 20851

240-314-8690

www.rockvillemd.gov/theatre Rockville Little Theatre Presents

An Inspector Calls

by J.B. Priestly

The family is celebrating when a mysterious inspector comes to call. It becomes clear that they are implicated in a young women’s death. Join us for an exciting whodunnit that will keep you guessing to the very end.

135584G

135538G

$18 to $16

1912455

Jan. 24 and 25 at 8 p.m.

Jan. 26 at 2 p.m.

THE 9 SONGWRITERS SERIES n When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18 n Where: BlackRock Center for the Arts, 12901 Town Commons Drive, Germantown n Tickets: $22 n For information: 240-9121058, blackrockcenter. org, wearethe9.com

iPhone, and they’re organized by city,” he said.

By performing in the series, musicians help themselves by gaining broader exposure in a larger venue while helping others to also develop their careers.”

“It’s good for me, and good for a lot of people in the area,” he said. vterhune@gazette.net trons 30 and younger and seniors, 244-644-1100, www.roundhousetheatre.org.

Silver Spring Stage, “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged),” To Feb. 1, Woodmoor Shopping Center, 10145 Colesville Road, Silver Spring, see website for show times, www.ssstage.org.

The Writer’s Center, Cynthia Atkins and Nathan Leslie, 2-4 p.m.

Jan. 26, 4508 Walsh Street, Bethesda, 301-654-8664, www.writer.org.

VISUAL ART Adah Rose Gallery, “Residue:” Sharon Butler, Michael Callaghan, Steven Charles, J.D. Hastings and Toni Tiller, to Feb. 9, 3766 Howard Ave., Kensington, 301-922-0162, www.adahrosegallery.com

The Dennis and Phillip Ratner Museum, TBA, hours are 10 a.m. to

4:30 p.m. Sundays, noon to 4 p.m.

Monday through Thursday, 10001 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda.

301-897-1518.

Gallery B, “New Works on Paper,” Jan. 8 to Feb. 1, opening reception from 6-9 p.m. Jan. 10, gallery hours are noon to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, 7700 Wisconsin Ave., Suite E. www.bethesda.org.

Glenview Mansion, The Pate Painters, watercolor, oil, acrylic, gouache, pastel, pencil, to Jan. 24, Rockville Civic Center Park, 503 Edmonston Drive, Rockville. www.rockvillemd. gov.

Marin-Price Galleries, March Avery, to Jan. 28, 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, 7022 Wisconsin Ave., 301-718-0622.

VisArts, Michael Sellmeyer: Paintings, Drawings, Prints, That Mostly Go Together, to Jan. 12, Common Ground Gallery; Lauren Boilini: Rabid Habits, to Jan. 12, Gibbs Street Gallery,155 Gibbs St., Rockville, 301-315-8200, www. visartsatrockville.org.

Washington Printmakers Gallery, “South African Voices: A

New Generation of Printmakers,” to Jan. 26, Pyramid Atlantic Art Center, second floor, 8230 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, www.washingtonprintmakers.com.

THE GAZETTE

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

THEATER

‘Almost’ there Small town life, love come alive in ‘Almost, Maine’

n

BY

WILL C. FRANKLIN STAFF WRITER

Never underestimate the importance of living in a small town.

Sure, the excitement from the everyday hustle and bustle isn’t quite as big, but that only leaves more time for people to interact, tell stories and fall in love.

Such is the case in John Cariani’s play, “Almost, Maine,” which is being performed by the Upcounty Theatre at the BlackRock Center for the Arts in Germantown.

The play features nine vignettes all taking place in the enchanted little town of Almost, Maine. Each little story explores love — both gained and lost.

Denise Smith, who plays Rhonda, said she originally had never heard of the play, but quickly fell in love with both the script and her character. “[Rhonda’s] best friend in the whole world is Dave and they’ve been really good friends for a long, long time,” Smith said. “Rhonda’s kind of a tomboy and I really felt when I read the script for the first time that you’re supposed to believe that maybe she’s a lesbian. But she loves Dave. … You find out she’s never kissed a guy, she doesn’t know how and she just likes guy things.”

Director Matti Jane Dickenson had the idea to do “Almost, Maine,” and brought the suggestion to the Upcounty Theatre board. Dickenson, according to Smith, came prepared by offering the board different ways to do the show spending varying amounts of money.

“The president, Jeff Smith, was pretty intrigued,” Smith said. “… Matti presented it so well. She had schematics and

ALMOST, MAINE

n When: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Jan. 17-18 n Where: BlackRock Center for the Arts, 12901 Town Commons Dr., Germantown n Tickets: $8-$15 n For information: 301-5282260; upcountytheatre.org

everything planned out. … Matti is absolutely wonderful and young and fresh with a lot of experience from college and some post-grad work.”

“Almost, Maine,” is the second show Dickenson has directed. Her first was a threewoman production with no set pieces and the actors remaining on stage throughout. Needless to say, with a cast of 15 and a full crew, “Almost, Maine,” is a bit different.

“I think it’s such a perfect show for this company and the space and time that we have,” Dickenson said. “We just finished the holidays. We’re getting ready to go into Valentine’s Day and it’s a perfect time for it. We have this perfectly fine frigid air that helps set the mood!”

Smith said she has really enjoyed working with the cast and playing Rhonda might have opened her eyes a little.

“Playing Rhonda has helped me personally explore parts of me that I think needed some exploring and maybe nurturing,” Smith said. “Rhonda’s a [tough girl] and [I’m] exploring that part of [me] and I kind of want to see that just a little more.”

For Dickenson, she hopes the audiences walks away knowing unexpected things can sometimes happen and they can be good.

“You have to not take things too seriously,” Dickenson said.

“You have to have fun with love.” wfranklin@gazette.net

UPCOUNTY THEATRE

Thomas Gower as Chad and Jacob Lucas as Randy rehearse a scene for “Almost, Maine.”

DANCERS

Continued from Page B-5 The Conservatory grads, now in college, will perform a piece about “what happens after a person [dies] and what happens with the people still there,” said Priore.

Also scheduled is a solo about the feeling of freedom after a long struggle, and a duet about love.

“It’s about finding a love who will be there no matter what, and how that can happen unexpectedly,” he said.

The longest work in “Emergence” is a five-section piece called “Os Padroes,” a Portuguese word for patterns.

It was inspired by the work of Dayton artist Willis “Bing” Davis, whom Priore got to know while performing in Ohio.

“It came out of a collabora-

tion between myself and Bing,” Priore said.

Looking at one of Davis’ paintings called “Ancestral Spirit Dance,” he began to hear the music of Brazil and the Caribbean in his head and choreographed the piece with that in mind.

The dance is set to music by Grateful Dead drummer Mickey Hart, Indian tabla master Zakir Hussain, and the Belgian/African vocal ensemble Zap Mama.

“There are four dancers from Dayton, four alumni and three current students in it,” he said.

Priore said he is very glad to be hosting a first-time visit by the Dayton dancers to CityDance.

“It’s like a dream come true to have both [companies] working together,” he said. “It’s awesome.” vterhune@gazette.net

JASON GARCIA IGNACIO

CityDance will present “Emergence,” a program featuring original work by its resident choreographer Robert Priore, on Saturday and Sunday at the CityDance Studio Theater at Strathmore in North Bethesda.

Page B-9

AT THE MOVIES

‘Her’ makes a perfect love connection BY

MICHAEL PHILLIPS

CHICAGO TRIBUNE

A delicate, droll masterwork, writer-director Spike Jonze’s “Her” sticks its neck out, all the way out, asserting that what the world needs now and evermore is love, sweet love. Preferably between humans, but you can’t have everything all the time.

It tells a love story about a forlorn writer, whose firm — BeautifulHandwrittenLetters. com — provides busy, digitally preoccupied customers with personalized correspondence crafted by professionals like Theodore Twombly, played by refreshingly rage-free and wholly inspired Joaquin Phoenix. Theodore is smarting from a marital breakup he’s not ready to process, legally or emotionally. He has a filmmaker friend, played by Amy Adams, living in his building in a Los Angeles of the very near future, perhaps 30 years from now. This is a city whose interiors are dominated by reds and pinks and salmon tones, as if the entire culture had taken an oath to view itself through rosecolored glasses.

Theodore buys the latest new gadget, the iPhone of its day. It is an advanced “operating system” that is simply a voice. Not a face. Not a body.

Not a person, but a carefully rendered collection of so much intelligence, so many programmed human traits and quirks and speech patterns and interests and desires that,

HER n 4 stars n R; 119 minutes n Cast: Joaquin Phoenix, Amy Adams, Olivia Wilde, Rooney Mara n Directed by Spike Jonze

well, why not? Why not call her your girlfriend and take it from there? No grief; no apparent emotional neediness; no accusing glances, like the ones we see in beautifully rendered flashback, showing Theodore’s life and times with his wife, portrayed by Rooney Mara.

I love this film, and I’m one of the most technophobic and least gadget-centric people on the planet. It’s unusually witty science fiction and it’s unfashionably sincere, as well as a work of such casual visual inspiration that a second viewing of “Her” feels more like a first.

This is the fourth feature from Jonze, and the first in which he directs his own script. Jonze has learned well from his earlier work. He met his poetic screwball match in screenwriter Charlie Kaufman for “Being John Malkovich” and “Adaptation,” and his more recent and fiercely divisive “Where the Wild Things Are” sent half the audience into emotional shock and the other half into emotional shock followed by immense gratitude.

“Her” is a more even-toned work, but not in a blanded-out way. The high-waisted beltless

WARNER BROS. PICTURES

Joaquin Phoenix as Theodore in the romantic drama “Her,” directed by Spike Jonze. pants of the future alone make this film worth seeing.

Jonze works with some creatively fabulous designers, among them production designer K.K. Barrett and cinematographer Hoyte Van Hoytema, creating a futuristic L.A. where everyone seems a little calmer but a little more isolated. The earbuds in so many ears may as well be space dividers.

Theodore’s path to Samantha, the operating system with the voice of Scarlett Johansson, involves a blind date with a gorgeous but touchy and insecure woman (Olivia Wilde, mercurial and striking) and a lot of blissfully easygoing debriefing with Theodore’s platonic-ish soul mate, the Adams character, rendered with unusual emotional transparency and the lightest of touches. Phoenix is remarkable as Theodore; he never rolls over for an obvious laugh. Sitting alone in his

apartment, playing the latest immersive video game, he paws the air like a chipmunk as his gaming avatar burrows into tunnels. It’s a sad but truly funny image, and the film’s full of such double-sided gems.

Where does the love story take Theodore and his new thrill? Better you find out for yourself. Jonze’s truisms sometimes have a somewhat predigested ring to them (“The heart expands in size the more you love”), but as Theodore and Samantha reach a relationship crossroads, the film becomes more and more amazing in its high-wire act. It is a small film made by enormous talents working in harmony. Jonze’s first solo script is topical in the right ways, and forward-thinking in the right ways. We’re living in this enticingly lonely world, more or less, already.

But does Siri really understand your needs?

Berg, Wahlberg honor story of SEAL team tragedy BY

MICHAEL PHILLIPS CHICAGO TRIBUNE

Roughly half of “Lone Survivor” is a standard-issue Hollywood treatment of a recent, bloody and, in human terms, tragic 2005 Navy SEAL mission to eliminate an al-Qaida operative in the Afghanistan mountain region of Hindu Kush. But the other half — the hour or so of writer-director Peter Berg’s film dealing specifically with what happens when four men are cut off in Taliban country, scrambling under fire — is strong, gripping stuff, free of polemics, nerve-wracking in the extreme.

This is a straight, hard, do-or-die scenario, vividly recreated by Berg. He adapts the best-seller “Lone Survivor: The Eyewitness Account of Operation Redwing and the Lost Heroes of SEAL Team 10,” written

by Marcus Luttrell and Patrick Robinson.

Mark Wahlberg plays Luttrell. His fellow SEALs are por-

trayed by Taylor Kitsch, Ben Foster and Emile Hirsch, with Eric Bana as their commander back at Bagram Air Field, monitoring what becomes a terrible ambush. Berg’s movie gets through its introductions efficiently, though without much in the way of character detail.

We know from the start who lives and who dies; Wahlberg’s Luttrell provides the voice-over at the outset, while we see him being saved by a rescue team.

The heart of the film is pure crisis and response. Kitsch plays Mike Murphy, the special ops team leader; Foster, the communications specialist Matthew “Axe” Axelson.

Hirsch’s Danny Dietz, gunner’s mate, completes the quartet, dispatched by helicopter to a remote mountainside perch near the village where their target has been spotted.

And then it goes wrong.

They’re ambushed, and for the better part of “Lone Survivor” we see them shot, thrown down

boulder-strewn inclines, fight back, attempt to regain a foothold. The actors know what’s required of them. You wouldn’t call an actor such as Foster an underplayer, but Berg manages to get all his actors in the same movie and keep conventional histrionics to a minimum. The situations that make up “Lone Survivor” are harrowing to begin with; they don’t need goosing.

Berg shot the film in the mountains and sound stages of New Mexico, and the size of the picture feels right for the scope of this true-life story. The adaptation doesn’t make room for much beyond the kinetic horror of the ambush. When Luttrell meets a local villager (Ali Suliman) who harbors the American from the Taliban, the movie takes a couple of shortcuts back into Hollywood territory. Sometimes, things that really happened have a way of seeming slightly phony on screen.

At its best, though, “Lone

LONE SURVIVOR n 3 stars n Rated R; 121 minutes n Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Taylor Kisch, Ben Foster, Emile Hirsch, Eric Bana, Ali Suliman n Directed by Peter Berg

Survivor” accomplishes its mission, which is to respect these men, dramatize what they went through and let the more troubling matters of moral consequence trickle in where, and how, they may. (In one tense sequence the men debate the fate of goat herders they encounter.)

Wahlberg remains one of our most reliable and least actorly of movie stars, innately macho but vulnerable enough to seem like a human being caught in an inhuman situation. Berg’s film pays attention to every setback, every moment lost or won on that mountain.

ROCK

Continued from Page B-5 Bollettino and her husband Jeff opened two School of Rock locations in Virginia: one in Vienna in July 2006 and one in Ashburn in July 2007. The two took over the Silver Spring location in September 2007.

“My husband and I were both involved in corporate America and as our kids were getting older, we realized we were missing out on a lot,” Bollettino said. “This was a unique concept … we really saw it made [students] really good, really fast.”

School of Rock is a performance-based music school with an emphasis on fun.

“We always joke around and say, ‘Don’t tell the kids we’re a serious music school,” Bollettino said.

But School of Rock means business.

Students are first enrolled in School of Rock 101, teaching basic skills through 45-minute private lessons and 90-minute group sessions. Students then move on to the Performance Program, which consists of 45-minute private lessons and a final show. The students rehearse for three hours, once a week in preparation for the end-of-season show at the end of the 12-13 week session.

Teachers at the school come from a range of backgrounds.

“We use a combination of teachers,” Bollettino said. “ … [some] are gigging musicians, some have degrees, some have just a lot of experience.”

But the headmaster is studio manager Forrest Hainline IV. “I like to think of myself as the principal of School of Rock,” Hainline said. “I promote a culture that is fun and safe and comfortable and inspiring for students.”

A Montgomery County native and a graduate of the Landon School in Bethesda, Hainline has been with School of Rock of Silver Spring for one and a half years.

LAURA BOLLETTINO

Gabby Chuke, 12 and a student at the School of Rock, performs in downtown Silver Spring.

“I really never thought of teaching,” said Hainline, who graduated from Augustana College in Illinois. “Even two years into it I never thought I was qualified, but people kept asking me to come back.”

On top of teaching private lessons, Hainline also leads students in the Performance Program and has prepared all of the students performing in Saturday’s concert.

“We give them song assignments …”

Hainline said. “Students come in once a week for three hours and start chipping away.”

According to Hainline, Saturday’s concert, which is divided into two parts, “What’s His Name Is?!” and “Who’s That Grrrl?!” is a celebration of songs about guys and girls. The lineup includes Simon & Garfunkel’s “Cecilia,” “Hey Jude,” by the Beatles and “Sheena is a Punk Rocker” by the Ramones.

Though School of Rock’s emphasis is

obviously on the music, both Bollettino and Hainline said the program helps its students develop skills applicable to other areas of their lives as well.

“Part of being an artist and being a gigging musician is you have to do promotion,” Bollettino said. “Selling tickets, making posters.”

School of Rock students have vowed to sell 400 tickets on their own for Saturday’s performance.

Bollettino added that School of Rock also builds self-assurance in its students.

“One of the things I’ve seen over and over again, by getting on stage and pushing through your fears, you gain confidence,” Bollettino said. “The feeling of accomplishment and ‘I did it’ and ‘I learned this hard piece of music,’ that can translate to any obstacle they’ll face in the future.” chedgepeth@gazette.net

Page B-10

T H E G AZ ET T E

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

Classifieds

Page B-11

Call 301-670-7100 or email class@gazette.net

SILVER SPRING

Randolph Village Senior Apartments "Affordable Independent Living For Seniors 62+."

Income Restriction Applies

WEDNESDAY OPEN HOUSE COFFEE SOCIAL 11AM-1PM AMENITIES: *Health Care Facility *Physical Fitness Center *Sun Filled Solarium *Community Media Room *Plenty of Parking Randolph Village Apartments

531 Randolph Road Silver Spring, MD 20904

X

ROCKVILLE

GAITHERSBURG

*Library *Resident Socials *Beautifully Landscaped Grounds

877.907.5577 (Office)

GAITHERHOUSE APARTMENTS

501B S. Frederick Ave #3 Gaithersburg, MD 20877

301-948-1908

301.622.7006 (Fax) Email: randolph@hrehllc.com

• Garden-Style Apartment Homes • On-Site Laundry Facilites • Kitchen w/ Breakfast Bar • Private Balcony/ Patio • Free Parking • Small Pets Welcome • Swimming Pool

DON’T WAIT APPLY TODAY!

Senior Living 62+

• Emergency Response System • 24 Hour Maintenance • Transportation Via Community Van • Pet Friendly • Full Size Washer & Dryer

www.PinnacleAMS.com/GardensOfTraville

Se Habla Espanol

X

The New Taste OPEN OPEN S a t u rd a y f ro m of Churchill 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

It’s BRAND NEW at Amber Commons

301-762-5224

Office Hours: M-F 9:00am - 6:00pm, Saturday 11:00am - 3:00pm

GAITHERSBURG

GERMANTOWN

GAITHERSBURG

14431 Traville Garden Circle Rockville, Maryland 20850

STREAMSIDE S T R E A M S I D E APARTMENTS A PA R T M E N T S

Saturday Saturday from f ro m 10:00 10:00 am am - 4:00 4:00 pm pm

7 McCausland Place, Gaithersburg, MD 20877 “If you are looking for the distinctive, the uncommon, the out of the ordinary then welcome home to Amber Commons where we have the perfect blend of tradition: brick, mature landscaping, and gracious space combined with the best of brand new: GE clean steel appliances, energy efficiency and more!”

We look forward to serving you!

1 Month FREE Rent

• Huge Floor Plans • Large Walkin Closets • Private Balcony/Patio • Fully Equipped Kitchen w/Breakfast Bar

The Trusted Name in Senior Living

21000 Father Hurley Boulevard Germantown, MD 20874

• Minutes away from I-270, Metro, and MARC Train

301-528-4400

Call today: 301-355-7111 www.ambercommons.com

301-948-8898

340 N. Summit Ave. • Gaithersburg, MD

www.churchillseniorliving.com

SILVER SPRING

Advertise Your apartment community here!

STRATHMORE HOUSE APARTMENTS kNewly Updated Units

and reach over 206,000 homes!

kSmall Pets Welcome kBalcony Patio

BY OWNER 5 min walk to NIH/Suburban Hosp.

Desirable neighborhd, great sch dists & so much more.

A must see! $879000. interiormakeovers@ho tmail.com

RENTALS House, Townhome, Condo whatever “HOME” means to you; call Marlene if you are in the market to buy, sell, invest, or rent.

marlenesmith09@aol.com www.mdshomesforsale.com Direct:

301-461-3977 Office:

G560372

301-469-4700

Marlene Dufresne-Smith

To Advertise Realtors & Agents

Call 301.670.2641

Rentals & For Sale

by Owner

Call 301.670.7100 or email class@gazette.net

WOODLANDS OF NOTTINGHAM!

FREDERICK -TH 3 BR,2 1/2 Ba, W/D, hardwood fl, $1275/ mo Avail 1/15,Ben 240-994-0865

SIL SPG: TH, 3BR

3BA, LR, DR, Kitch, W/D. $2,100. Near Bus, Shops & 495.

Call 240-501-4442

CHEVY

CHASE:

2Br, 1Ba, LR & kit modernized, W/D, parking, $1700 inc util, short term lease avl, Call: 240-793-2565

SS: 3br/2ba SFH, fin CARROLL COUNTY 1605 Kings Forest Trial, Mt. Airy, MD 21771

HW thru out main level. 2-story foyer & FR w/gas FP. Main level office & separate laundry room.

Gourmet kitchen w/new stainless steel appliances & island breakfast bar. 4BR, 2.5 BA. Level fenced rear yard with lovely patio & retaining wall. Close to schools & historic Mt. Airy Main Street. $549,900 CR8221079

Sharon Keeny, Realtor Long and Foster 410-715-2743 G560628

5 ACRES BACKS TO PARKLAND!

GAITHERSBURG. Magnificent total renovation both inside & out.

Perfect pristine condition.

Complete privacy yet convenient to 70 & 270, a perfect retreat backing to acres of parkland.

Custom construction, 5 BRs, 4 full and 2 half BAs, 3 FPs, 3 finished levels, hardwood flooring throughout, extensive hardscape.

Welcome home to paradise!

MC8231343 $1,000,000

Sharon Keeny, Realtor Long and Foster 410-715-2743 G560627

BURTONSVILLE:

rec rm, hrwd flrs, DW, W&D, CAC $2000+ utils, Metro/shops.

202-210-5530

3BR, 2.5BA TH, Fireplace, Finish Bsmt, $1800 + utils, No SS: SFH 3BR, 1.5BA, Pets. 202-236-4197 hrd flrs, W&D, nr shops, bus & 495, DAMASCUS: 3BR HOC ok. $1695/mo. $1400/ 2BR $1150 240-383-1000 +util NS/NP, W/D New Carpet, Paint, Deck & Patio, 301-250-8385

GAITH/AMBERFLD

Lux 3lvl EU/TH, Gar 2MBR, 2.5BA, LR DR, FR, FP,EIK, Deck $1800. 301-792-9538

GAITH/MV: 3 bed, 2 1/2 ba TWH freshly painted $1550 central heat/AC , all appliances, wood floors assigned parking fenced patio HOC ok call Nick 301-412-4522 GERMAN: HOC Welcome 3 lvl TH, 3br, 2.5ba nr 270/shops $1699/mo avail now Call: 301-906-0870

GE RMA NT OWN :

Townhome: 3 bed/1.5 bath $1400+utilities, deck, fenced yard, W/D, parking, Avail 2-1-14 Pls Contact 301 424-6759

MV/GAITH: Huge 4lvl

3Br 2.5Ba TH w/FP. Newly renov. 2100 sf, NS, NP. $1750 + utils.

301-990-9294

POTOMAC: SFH, 5Br, 3Ba, MBr suite, no bsmt, 3800 sq ft $4k/mo owner shares util, 301-983-4783

LRG CONDO 1bd/1ba wood floor, 24hr security, all util incl HOC OK 240-383-1000

LAKESIDE APTS GAITHERSBURG

Half Month Free Large 1 or 2 BR Apts Short/long term leases Utilities Included

Great Prices

301-948-0087 POTOMAC: 1Br, +

Den, 1Ba, W/D, modernized LR & kit, priv entr, $1590 inc util, Call: 240-793-2565 SILVER SPRING : Dwntwn Flower Ave. Unfurn 2br 1ba Apt. HOC Welcome $1250 202-246-1977

Lrg room w/priv BA & Entr. Close to shops, bus & metro. $1,000 incl utils & int. N/P, N/S. Se habla espanol. Email David davidvaliente01@ hotmail.com

GAITHERSBURG:

CABIN JOHN- 1 bd

condo close to DC & VA near C&O canal and bike path call 301299-8024

GAITH: 2bd,2ba

renovated,patio, near costco,bus,mall,I270 $1300/mo + utils CALL(301)678-9182

ASPEN HILL: Comp GAITH:FIRESIDE Renovated 2Br/ 1Ba CONDOS 3Br, 2full 1st flr,CAC w/d in unit. ba, balc. $1775/mo util $1350 incl util, except incl. HOC Welc. Avail elec. 240-398-1337 Jan 1st. 301-535-3017 GAIT H: Penthouse

GAITHERSBURG:

GERM: 2Br, 2Ba new

crpt/paint, h/d flr, W/D, fitness center, near shops & restaurants $1250 + SD Mike Remax Pro. Please Call: 301-674-2371 or 240-426-6964

Male, master BR w BA $399. Nr Metro/Shops NP/NS. Avail Now. Call 301-219-1066

GAITH:M BRs $435+ 440+475+555+ Maid Ns/Np, nr 270/370/Bus shops, quiet, conv.Sec Dep 301-983-3210

GAITH: rm everthing in-cluded for one person only $500 (301) 760-4900 G A I T H : Room

for rent for prof female, Cls to 270, Shady Grove Metro. $550 incl utils. Email: anportega @yahoo.com

GERM: 1 large room,

shared bath $500 util incl near transit, NS/NP call 301-7177696

GE RMA NT OWN :

BETHESDA: Nice Studeo in SFH. Near NIH, Bethesda Metro, Ride-On. $975 incl util. Free pkg. 301801-8087 BURTONSVILLE:

MBR w/BA in apt; 2 closets, W&D, cls to 495/95, $670 inclds utils 301-803-0981

GAITHERSBURG:

Lrg Rm in SFH, Pool, full privlgs,Vegetarian, NS. $600 + 1/4 elec Call: 301-482-1425

Master bedroom with full bath in condo. $625 includes utiltities.

Call 240-893-0745

GERM: Bsmt w/pvt

Entr, Ba, Br, nr schls, bus, util incl N/S N/P Avl Jan 1st Please Call 301-461-2636

(301) 460-1647 3004 Bel Pre Rd., Apt. 204, Silver Spring, MD 20906

GERM/MILESTONE SIL SPG: 2 MBr, 1 Lg room w/ view & ($700) and 1 ($650) bath in condo; prkg, both priv Ba, all util busline, shops $650 inc, NS/NP, nr shops incl utils + dep & metro 240-551-4591 w/Wifi 301-515SILVER SPRING: 4554.

MONT VILL: M B

Suite, priv Ba, female, $630 + util NS/NP $200 move-in bonus Call: 240-401-3522

OLNEY:

1 Rm in bsmt in SFH share kitchen $500 utils included, NS/NP Avail Now. 301-257-5712

OLNEY: Bdrm + Den

avail in TH for mature female only! $500/mon util inclu + security deposit 301-774-60751

POOLESVILLE:

Room-Plus For Rent.

Lrge rm in 4-BR+ Westerly house. Includes Dish Premium & DVR, wireless internet. Garage, shed, large yard, parking, Ride-On. Gotta like dogs, horses a plus. $600 + 1/3 elect. & water. W: 202-6546753

ROCKVILLE: 2rms priv bth $1150; 2 rms 2nd flr, lrg mstbr $1250 bth w/TV cbl & int. 1 person each flr NS/NP 301-762-1058 ROCKVILLE: BR in apt w closet, prvt BA, shrd kit, NS/NP. Acr metro. $650 all utils incld 301-340-1257

GERM: Male 1Br in TH Share bath & kitchen $450 ut inc Nr ROCKVILLE/OLNEY MARC/Buses, Ref’s Lrg Single Fam Home Room for rent shared Req. 240-370-2301 bath & kit all utils, G E R M : TH LG 1 cbl & int incl $510 room w/pvt BA NS/NP $650/mo w/utils & int.

Available Now! Nr Walmart & 270/355 301-924-1818 CALL: 240-744-2421

1Br bsmt apt, SFH, LR, kit, Ba, priv entr, NS/NP, nr metro & ICC $950 inc util/ cable 301-774-6763

SILVER SPRING: 1 furnished BD in basement in SFH. Priv ent. $495 incl util. MALE ONLY. 240-676-0621 SILVER

SPRING:

Room avail now $465 shared kitchen, bathroom & util cable TV W/D 301-404-2681

SILVER SPRING:

Room for rent, prvt BA & Den. $700/mo incl utils. Non smoker. Call Arthur 301-587-6922

SS:1rm bsmt apt pvt ent share kit/ba, $510 uti/cbl inc, Male. wlk to bus, nr White Flint Twinbrk 301-933-5668 S S : 2 br in bsmt $500/mo each rm, Veirs Mill/Randolph, W/D, int, utils incl. 1mo sec dep 240-620-7982 SS: NEW 1BR Apt 1st

floor private ENT, KIT, BA, PARKING. $1100 quiet and Sunny! call 301-879-2868

TAKOMA

PARK:

2 Rooms starting at $750 shared bath util incl. All furn! Near metro. 240-421-6689

WASHINGTON DC: Brentwood NE,

Lrg furn Br, priv Ba, shrd kit & W/D, 1 blk frm bus & 5 blks from Red/Metro $850/util inc 202-361-8087

kFamily Room kFull Size W/D in every unit kSwimming Pool

WHEATON: BR in APT w/pvt BA. $650/ mo incl. utils, Cable/ WiFi. Nr Metro & Bus. Call 240-286-7142

WHEATON:

G560375

Contact Ashby Rice (301) 670-2667 or pricing and ad deadlines.

B E T H : FOR SALE

kSpacious Floor Plans

On Georgia Ave. 1 MBR w/prvt ba. $650 util incl Nr Metro & Shops.

Npets 240-441-1638

Page B-12

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

line bidding. Everything starts at $1.

Come to preview at: 5320 29th Street, NW, Washington, DC on January 18th, 2-4pm.

Call 202-350-9388 for more info. www.maxsold.com

FIREWOOD FOR SALE

$250/cord $150 per 1/2 cord µ Includes Delivery µ Stacking Extra Charge Ask for Jose 301-417-0753 301-370-7008

GAITHERSBURG

BY APPT ONLY! Living room & Bedroom furniture for Sale!

Call: 301-674-0569

POTOMAC- LARGE

LOW PRICE INDOOR MOVING SALE Jan 18 -19 10-3 Furn, TV’s, Picts, Aniques, Household items, Coats, Clothes & MORE !!

BURIAL FOR SALE

2 burial site in good location at G. W Cemetery Adelphi, MD sold at discount 301384-6020

DOWNSIZING? HAVE A COLLECbuy TION? We households, attics or basement accumulations.

Almost anything. 301-514-4234

HAVANESE PUPPIES Home raised, AKC, best health guarantee noahslittleark.com Call: 262-993-0460

AVON: $10 Starts Your AVON Business.

Contact Cynthia Proctor, Avon Ind. Sls. Rep. at 301-218-2515.

NOTICE The property located at 2747 Linden Lane in Silver Spring, Maryland has been accepted into Maryland’s Voluntary Cleanup Program. A proposed response action plan (RAP) has been submitted to the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) for approval. Washington Landmark, the developer, proposes through the RAP to address contaminated soil. Lead and Poly-Aromatic hydrocarbons are considered contaminants in the soil onsite. The primary method to address the contamination is the removal of the contaminated soils through excavation and subsequent reuse of contaminated soils as a base for a concrete slab within the foot print of the onsite structure. Further, through surcharging of the excavation at the subject site, a "two foot clean zone" will be established.

(1-15, 1-22-14)

Public Notice At Winter Growth Adult Day and Assisted Living Programs, no person will on the grounds of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, ancestry, or disability, be excluded from participation in, be denied benefits of or otherwise be subject to discrimination in the provision of any care, service, or admission.

(1-15-14)

ADORABLE ANTIQUE HUTCH & BUFFET Perfect for an Apt dining room or larger kitchen. display your collectible in these "COLLECTABLES". Call ot text 240-876-0268 $250

It’s FREE! Buy It, Sell It, Find It GazetteBuyandSell.com

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM M LOOKING M FOR POTOMAC HSKPR M LIVE IN HOUSE- 1-9 pm. Legal. Drive, M 5 days a Good English. LaunM Global Executives, Hiking, Skiing, M KEEPER. wk. 202-841-8818 or dry. Min 2yrs Exp. Playful Pets.

Theatre, Music, M M 202-631-0908 Call 301.887.3212.

Lovingly Awaits 1st Baby M M M M Expenses Paid.M M M M 1-800-933-1975 M M GP2363 MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

MADOPTION:M

HOPING ADOPT:

ROCKVILLE ESTATE BEAUTIFUL APT + SALARY LIVE-IN driv-

It’s

FREE!

Buy It,

ing & light house Sell It, Find It duties pastor’s wife.

301-871-6565 lv msg GazetteBuyandSell.com speak loud & clear.

TO

Loving married couple MOST HOLY APOSlongs to adopt new- TLE, St. Jude, faithful born We promise a servant and friend of lifetime of uncondition- Jesus, the church honal love, opportunities ors and in-vokes you and security. Expens- universally as the paes Paid. Please call tron of hope-less casTricia & Don anytime es, of things alat 1-800-348-1748 most despared of.

Pray for me I am so helpless and alone.

Make use, I impolre you, of that particular privilege given to you to bring visible and FREE FOOD GIVE- speedy help where is almost AWAY BYGRACE help Anyone despared of. Come to LIFE. needing help will be my assistance in this eli-gible, no questions great need that I may asked. Sat. Jan. 25. receive the help of 2pm - 4pm. Venue: heaven in all my ne8730 Cherry Lane, cessities, tribulations, Lau-rel, MD 20707. and sufferings. I promFMI please call ise, O blessed St. Ijeh on 301.219.7174 Jude, to be ever mindor astor@gracelifecen- ful of this great favor, ter.com. to always honor you as my special and powerful patron, and gratefully to encourSOCCER TRY- age devotion to you.

OUTS: B e t h e s d a Amen. This prayer is Soccer Club has to be said in time of openings for U-13 girls great need for nine team. Please contact days. Publication must Coach Pat Farrell at be promised. It has patcfarr@gmail.com never been known to fail. CGR

Daycare Directory

G GP2362 P2362

AUCTION: Easy on-

Bethesda Village Daycare Children’s Center of Damascus Damascus Licensed Family Daycare Elena’s Family Daycare My Little Lamb Childcare Kids Garden Day Care Reflections Daycare Susanna’s Day Care Little Angels Licensed Child Care Kids Love Jewelry

Lic # 160373 Lic. #: 31453 Lic. #: 139094 Lic. #: 15-133761 Lic #: 51328 Lic.#: 139378 Lic.#: 160613 Lic #: 105189 Lic #: 160952 Lic #161641

301-564-1966 301-253-6864 301-253-4753 301-972-1955 301-990-9695 240-601-9134 240-506-5343 301-933-7342 301-622-1517 301-625-1762

20817 20872 20872 20876 20877 20886 20886 20902 20904 20904

DEADLINE: FEBRUARY 3, 2014

To Advertise Call 301.670.2641

Careers 301-670-2500

class@gazette.net

MULTIPLE LUBE TECH POSITIONS

MOBIL LUBE EXPRESS in Kensington, MD. Experience preferred, but will train the right person!

APPLY IN PERSON AT: 10635 Connecticut Ave. Kensington, MD.

AV Technicians & AV Managers AV experience required, email resume to careers@total-av.com

Assist in design market research strategies to pinpoint higher profit-yielding business practices and markets. Research market conditions in various demographics. Compile and identify customer demands based on statistical evidence. Assist in creating pricing strategies for services/packages. MBA. Knldge of &/or exp in Tencent QQ instant messaging software, Sina Weibo, Kingsoft WPS Office 2012 and Baidu Cloud.

Res to job loc: Evergreen Settlement Comp, Inc., Attn: S. Chang, 8923 Shady Grove Ct, Gaithersburg, MD 20877.

CLEANING

Earn $300-$500/wk. M-F, No nights or wknds.

Must have own car & valid.

Drivers lic. Se Habla Espanol.

Merry Maids

Gaithersburg 301-869-6243

Dental/Medical Offices now hiring.

No experience?

Job Training & Placement Assistance Available 1-877-234-7706 CTO SCHEV

Business Development Specialist

Let Gazette Careers help you find that next position in your LOCAL area.

Driver & Warehouse

Firm located in Rockville MD has two open positions. Driver qualified driver with CDL- B license to deliver materials to customer sites and load and unload trucks. Day shift. Warehouse Workerverifies counts, unload trucks, and pull materials for jobs. 2nd shift.

Both positions require forklift experience and are able to lift 50 lbs.

Must work over-time when necessary. We offer competitive pay and benefits package. Submit application on line www.euservices.com/careers. EOE/M/F/V/D

Real Estate

Dental/ Medical Assistant Trainees Needed Now

Pharmacy/ Phlebotomy Tech Trainees Needed Now Pharmacies/ hospitals now hiring.

No experience?

Job Training & Placement Assistance Available 1-877-240-4524 CTO SCHEV

Silver Spring

Work with the BEST!

Be trained individually by one of the area’s top offices & one of the area’s best salesman with over 34 years. New & experienced salespeople welcomed.

Must R.S.V.P.

Local companies, Local candidates Get Connected

Call Bill Hennessy

GC3043

AUTOMOTIVE

Gazette.Net

301-388-2626 301-388-2626

bill.hennessy@longfoster.com • Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. EOE

Healthcare

Full-Time Nurses Skilled Nursing Facility seeking experienced Registered Nurses for FT 3-11 shifts. Apply in person and take the PreEmployment Exam at 1235 Potomac Valley Road Rockville MD 20850 EOE.

Health

Certified Nursing Assistant

(GNA & Med Tech a plu$) Asst. Living in a rural home enviroment, Brookeville, MD Must have own transp. brookevillehouse@aol.com or fax: 301-570-1182

Lab Technician Andrologist The A.R.T Institute of Washington Inc. has an immediate opening for an Andrologist in Bethesda, MD. College education or cert. in a biological or chemical science pref. US citizenship req. Previous andrology experience &/or background check for work in a DOD facility is beneficial. Will train a qualified applicant. Work schedule requires some weekends & holiday work. EOE The successful candidate must be detail-oriented & have superior communication and organizational skills. We seek a lab colleague who has the drive and enthusiasm for patient contact, quality control, regulatory compliance and who functions well independently.

Please fax or email your resume to Aidita James at 888-399-7045 or aida.n.james.ctr@health.mil

Food Service

FOOD SERVICE ∂ Chef or Experienced Cook - Some weekends, experience with & knowledge of production systems essential, food safety certified & computer preferred. ∂ Line Server/Food Prep Helper - Part time ∂ Utility/Dishwasher - Part time Reliable transportation is essential. Apply in person, M-F @ 2pm, Sandy Spring Friends School, 16923 Norwood Rd. Sandy Spring, MD 20860, 301-7747455 ext. 128, michael.ackerson@ssfs.org EOE

Follow us on Twitter

Gazette Careers

HEALTHCARE

WE’RE HIRING WEEKEND CNAS, GNAS, AND HHAS!

Provide non-medical care and companionship for seniors in their homes. Personal care, light housework, transportation, meal preparation.

Must be 21+. Must have car and one year professional, volunteer, or personal experience www.homeinsteads.com/197 Home Instead Senior Care To us it’s personal 301/588-9023 Call between 10am-4pm Mon-Fri

Maintenance Technician

TLC in Rockville seeks to hire a FT Building Maintenance Technician .

The position is responsible for coordinating and performing the upkeep, maintenance and repair of buildings, equipment and grounds. Must have three to five years experience in facilities, a valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record. Send resume to Ms. Haddad at rhaddad@ttlc.org. EOE

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

THE GAZETTE

Page B-13

Page B-14

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

Automotive Call 301-670-7100 or email class@gazette.net

JJANUARY ANUARY IINVENTORY NVENTORY R E D U C T I O N SALE SALE REDUCTION 03NewBeetle #377605A, 1 Owner, $ $ GL Coupe, Cyber Green

5,500

07 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS #364333A, $$ 5 Speed Manual, 1

8,800

Owner, 44k Miles

04 Honda Element EX #362045B, 4 Speed $ $ Auto, 1-Owner, 4WD

5,800

10 Toyota Corolla LE #470348A, $$ 4 Speed Auto, 40k Miles

11,500

05 Bmw X3 $$ #363412A, Auto, 2.5i, 4WD

8,700

09HyundaiVeracruzLTD #364523A, 6 Speed $ $ Auto, 1-Owner, Sport

11,800

YOU ALWAYS GET YOUR WAY AT OURISMAN EVERYDAY

2013 CLEARANCE SALE 2014 JETTA S

MSRP $17,810

11 Toyota Camry LE #472182A, $$ 6 Speed Auto,

11 Toyota Camry LE $$

13 Hyundai Velostar #467009A, $ 6 Speed Auto,1 Owner,$

4-DR, Silver Metallic

#P8864, 1 Owner, 6 Speed Auto, 38k Miles

12,800

14,800

4 Door

10k Miles, Coupe

12,800

17,800

12 Nissan Altima S #470192A, CVT $ $ Trans, 2.5. Low Miles

14,800

08 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 3.0L #457003B, 7 Speed Auto,, Mars Red

19,700

$$

2006 Toyota Camry LE........... $8,800 $8,800 2010 Toyota Prius II............ $16,800 $16,800 #462007A, 5 SpeedAuto, Indigo Ink Pearl #P8874, CVT Trans, 1 Owner, 25k Miles, Barcelona Red

$9,800 2007 Lexus IS 250.............. $18,800 $18,800 2006 Toyota Corolla S........... $9,800 #450075B, 4 SpeedAuto, 1 Owner, Indigo Ink Pearl #4377591A, 6 SpeedAuto, 1 Owner, Obsidian

13 Ne Beetles & Bewet Convertibles le 19 Available In Stock Units On ly

OURISMAN VW # 7373771, Power Windows, Power Locks, Keyless Entry

12 Ford Focus SEL #351136A, $ 6 Speed Auto, $

$5,000 OFF 20

14,999

2013 NEW BEETLE

#1679497, Power Windows/Locks, Sunroof, Auto, Loaded

MSRP $24,490 - $5,000 OFF BUY FOR

#3096306, Automatic, Power Windows/Power Locks, Keyless Entry, Heated Seats, Bluetooth, Cruise Control

2014 PASSAT S 2.5L

#9009449, Automatic, Power Windows/Power Locks, Keyless Entry, Cruise Control

MSRP $20,860

$

BUY FOR

2013 GOLF 2 DOOR

19,490

$

OR 0% for 60 MONTHS

2013 JETTA GLI

BUY FOR

16,999

$

OR 0% for 60 MONTHS

MSRP $22,765

18,999

$

BUY FOR

2013 JETTA TDI

2013 GTI 2 DOOR

#7234651, Automatic Power Windows, Power Locks, Bluetooth

#4125692, Automatic, Power Windows/ Power Locks, Keyless Entry

MSRP $25,155

19,995 2014 TIGUAN S BUY FOR

$

MSRP $26,095 BUY FOR

21,938

$

OR 0% for 60 MONTHS

2014 PASSAT TDI SE

2011 Mazda Mazda3 Touring. . $14,800 $14,800 2013 Scion TC................... $19,800 $19,800 #472137A, 5 SpeedAuto, 19k Miles, 1-Owner, Graphite Mica #351079A, 1-Owner, Release Series 8.0,Absolutely Red

2010 Jeep Liberty Sport....... $15,500 $15,500 2011 Toyota Avalon............ $19,800 $19,800 #467042A, 4 WD, 4 SpeedAuto, 1 Owner, Silver Metallic #478001A, 6 SpeedAuto, 1 Owner, 4 Door 2007 Honda Odyssey EX-L. ... $15,800 $15,800 2009 Nissan Murano SL....... $20,800 $20,800 #460070A, 5 SpeedAuto, 1 Owner #P8851A, CVT Trans, 4WD, Sport Utility 2011 Honda Accord LX-P...... $16,800 $16,800 2014 Toyota Camry LE.......... $21,800 $21,800 #472112A, 1 Owner, 5 SpeedAuto, 39k Miles, Metal Metallic #378075A, 6 SpeedAuto, 1-Owner, 307 Miles, Clearwater Blue Metallic

355 3 5 5 TOYOTA TOYOTA PRE-OWNED P R E - OW N E D See what it’s like to love car buying

1-888-831-9671 1-888-831-9671 15625 Frederick Rd (Rte 355) • Rockville, MD | OPEN SUNDAY

V ISIT U HE W VISIT US S O ON N T THE WEB EB A AT T w www.355.com ww.355.com

MSRP 26,110 $

BUY FOR

21,999

$

OR 0.9% for 60 MONTHS

#13525611, Automatic, Power Windows, Power Locks, Keyless Entry

MSRP $25,235

BUY FOR

23,399

$

#9060756, Automatic, Power Windows, Power Locks, Sunroof

MSRP $27,385 BUY FOR

23,399

$

OR 0.9% for 60 MONTHS

OURISMAN VW WORLD AUTO CERTIFIED PRE OWNED 23 Available...Rates Starting at 2.64% up to 72 months

1999 SAAB 9-5..............#V674887A, Green, 83,144 miles..............$5,991 2011 Jetta Sedan..........#V0019A, Silver, 47,603 miles.................$12,995 2010 Routan...................#VP0021,White, 53,686 miles.................$13,999 2012 Mazda 6................#VPR0023, Black, 44,340 miles...............$14,995 2011 Toyota Corolla......#VP0020, Black, 30,992 miles.................$15,491 2012 Nissan Altima......#VPR0024, Gray, 42,366 miles................$15,995 2012 Honda CR-Z..........#V448990A, Black, 24,198 miles.............$15,995 2012 Jetta SE................#VPR61113, Silver, 34,537 miles.............$16,495 2012 Beetle....................#V20016, Silver, 10,890 miles.................$16,495

2012 Passat S................#VPR0016, Gray, 37,800 miles................$16,995 2013 Jetta SE................#V693295A, Red, 3,179 miles..................$18,995 2013 Jetta SE................#VPR0012, Silver, 3,693 miles..................$18,999 2013 Jetta SE................#VPR0011, Silver, 4,491 miles..................$18,999 2011 CC..........................#VP0022, Black, 30,272 miles..................$18,999 2011 Honda CRV...........#V003776A, Gray, 37,086 miles...............$19,995 2011 Tiguan S................#VPR0017,White, 32,529 miles...............$20,995 2012 CC..........................#V502916A, Silver, 35,715 miles..............$21,995

All prices exclude tax, tags, title, freight and $200 processing fee. Cannot be combined with any previous advertised or internet special. Pictures are for illustrative purposes only. See dealer for details. 0% APR Up To 60 Months on all models. See dealer for details. Ourisman VW World Auto Certified Pre Owned financing for 60 months based on credit approval thru VW. Excludes Title, Tax, Options & Dealer Fees. Special APR financing cannot be combined with sale prices. Ends 01/31/14.

Ourisman VW of Laurel 3371 Fort Meade Road, Laurel

1.855.881.9197 • www.ourismanvw.com Online Chat Available...24 Hour Website • Hours Mon-Fri 9 am-9 pm • Sat 9 am-8 pm

Selling that convertible...be sure to share a picture!

Log on to

Gazette.Net/Autos to upload photos of your car for sale

G558474

G558471

DARCARS

#7301806, Power Windows, Power Locks

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

Page B-15

1996 FORD F150:

2010 FORD F-150: P l a t i n u m Supercrew, 4x4, 40900 miles, black, leather, navigation, rear view camera, tow package, excellent condition, $ 1 4 9 0 0 , trde@netscape.co m

DARCARS NISSAN

CA H

Brown & white well take care off, $2000 Sold as is. 240-3920655

FOR CAR !

DARCARS

ANY CAR ANY CONDITION

2010 LEXUS RX WE PAY TOP DOLLAR-FAST FREE PICKUP! A W D , 350: black/black leather, SELL YOUR CAR TODAY! CALL NOW FOR AN 24k miles, warranty, clear title, $12800, ama72myers@gma il.com

2003 Nissan Altima S

See what it’s like to love car buying.

INSTANT CASH OFFER

#446030A, Auto, 4 Door, 1-Owner

MSRP: Sale Price:

G558459

10,995

$12,970 $10,995

$

Sale Price: NMAC Bonus Cash:

$

With Bluetooth #12013 2 At This Price: VINS: 797244, 791798

2014 NISSAN ALTIMA 2.5 S MSRP: $23,470 Sale Price: Nissan Rebate: NMAC Bonus Cash:

24/7 at Gazette.net

16,995

$

14,495

#341201A, Auto, 2WD, 1 Owner

12,977

$

2011 Kia Forte SX

$18,995 -$1,000 -$1,000

12,977

$

13,977

$

2007 BMW 3 Series 328Xi #445067A, AWD, Automatic

14,977

$

With Bluetooth #13114 2 At This Price: VINS: 204558, 263232

With Bluetooth, Rear View Monitor #22113 2 At This Price: VINS: 555572, 042248

$

2014 NISSAN PATHFINDER S AWD MSRP: $31,345

24,495

2012 Nissan Altima 2.5s

$18,995 -$500 -$500

#E0293, Auto, 1 Owner, 4 Door

17,995

$26,495 -$1,000 -$1,000

$ G558473

2006 Honda CR-V LX

#447501A, Black Leather, Low Miles, 5-Door, 1-0wner

Sale Price: Nissan Rebate: NMAC Bonus Cash:

Sale Price: Nissan Rebate: NMAC Bonus Cash:

2007 VW EOS 2.0T #448309A, Auto, 1 Owner, 2 Door

$14,995 -$500

2013MSRP: NISSAN ROGUE S$22,695 FWD

95

30 Days

#11154 2 At This Price: VINS:830165, 845638

2013 NISSAN SENTRA S MSRP: $17,675

Place Your Vehicle for Sale online

39

11,977

$

2014 NISSAN VERSA SEDAN S M/T

(301) 288-6009

$

6,977

$

2012 Nissan Versa S #446067A, 4 Speed Auto, 1 Owner, 4 Door Compact

14,977

$

2013 Nissan Frontier S #347529A, Auto, 2WD, 1 Owner, Pick Up

#25014 2 At This Price: VINS: 607679, 602755

DARCARS NISSAN of of ROCKVILLE ROCKVILLE 15911 Drive • • Rockville, Rockville, MD MD (at (at Rt. Rt. 355 355 across across from fromKing KingFarm) Farm) 15911 Indianola Indianola Drive www.DARCARSNISSAN.com 888.824.9166 •• www.DARCARSNISSAN.com

Prices include all rebates and incentives. NMAC Bonus Cash requires financing through NMAC with approved credit. Prices Pricestax, include rebates incentives.

NMAC Bonusand Cash requires financing through NMAC with approved credit.with exclude tags, all freight (carsand $780, trucks $725-$995), $200 processing charge. *Lease payments are calculated Prices exclude tax,$200 tags,processing freight (cars $810,and trucks $200 processing charge. valid only onthrough listed tax, tags, freight, charge first$845-$995), payment dueand at signing, and are valid withPrices tier one approval VINS. See dealer for details.

Offer expires 01/21/2014.

NMAC. Prices valid only on listed VINS. See dealer for details. Offer expires 10/22/2012.

18,977

$

2010 Nissan Murano SL #P8816, AWD, 1 Owner, Sport Utility

17,977

$

2013 Nissan Juke SL #N0292, Auto, AWD, Navigation, Leather, Sunroof

20,977

$

www.DARCARSnissan.com DARCARS NISSAN of ROCKVILLE 15911 Indianola Drive • Rockville, MD (at Rt. 355 across from King Farm)

888.805.8235 • www.DARCARSNISSAN.com

BAD CREDIT - NO CREDIT - CALL TODAY!

in print and online

2014 NEW COROLLA LE

36 $

NEW 2014 COROLLA LE 3 AVAILABLE: #470297, 470197, 470321

3 AVAILABLE: #470335, 470363, 470156

COLD DAYS...

HOT DEALS!

139/mo.**

4 DR., 4 CYL., AUTO

NEW 2014 VENZA 4X2 2 AVAILABLE: #474506, 474502

24,590

$

15,790

4 DR., AUTO, 4 CYL., INCL.

NEW 2014 SCION XD 2 AVAILABLE: #453002, 453012

$

4 CYL., AUTO

AFTER $1,000 REBATE

$

169/mo.**

4 CYL., 4 DR., AUTO

NEW 2013 RAV4 LE 4X4 BASE 2 AVAILABLE: #364575, 364497

NEW 2014 CAMRY LE 2 AVAILABLE: #472121, 472144

36 Month Lease $

169/mo.**

4 DR., 4 CYL., AUTO

NEW 2014 CAMRY LE

2 AVAILABLE: #377730, 377729

16,890

2 AVAILABLE: #472090, 472191

0% FOR

4 DR., AUTO, 4 CYL.,

AFTER $1,000 REBATE

4 CYL., AUTOMATIC

AFTER $500 REBATE

NEW 2013 PRIUS C II

$

21,790

60

DARCARS

MONTHS+

On 10 Toyota Models

See what it’s like to love car buying

$

18,790

AUTO, 4 CYL., 4 DR

AFTER TOYOTA $1,750 REBATE

G557425

1-888-831-9671

15625 Frederick Rd (Rte 355) • Rockville, MD n OPEN SUNDAY n VISIT US ON THE WEB AT www.355Toyota.com

G558472

$

PRICES AND PAYMENTS INCLUDE ANY APPLICABLE MANUFACTURE’S REBATES AND EXCLUDE MILITARY ($500) AND COLLEGE GRAD ($500) REBATES, TAX, TAGS, DEALER PROCESSING CHARGE ($200) AND FREIGHT: CARS $795 OR $810, TRUCKS, SPORT UTILITY AND SIENNAS $810, $845 AND $995. *0.9% APR & 0% APR FINANCING UP TO 60 MONTHS TO QUALIFIED BUYERS THRU TOYOTA FINANCIAL SERVICES. TOTAL FINANCED CANNOT EXCEED MSRP PLUS OPTIONS, TAX, AND LICENSE FEES. 0% APR 60 MONTHLY PAYMENTS OF $16.67 FOR EACH $1000 BORROWED. 0.9% APR 60 MONTHLY PAYMENTS OF $17.05 FOR EACH $1000 BORROWED. APR OFFERS ARE NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER CASH BACK OR LEASE OFFER. NOT ALL BUYERS WILL QUALIFY.**LEASE PAYMENTS BASED ON 36 MONTHS, 12,000 MILES PER YEAR WITH $995 DOWN PLUS $650 ACQUISITION FEE, NO SECURITY DEPOSIT REQUIRED. SEE DEALER FOR COMPLETE DETAILS. OFFERS EXPIRES 01/31/2014.

Page B-16

Wednesday, January 15, 2014 s

03 Jeep Grand Cherokee $3,988

05 Chevy Uplander

$8,988

#KP56630, ALL-WHEEL-DRIVE, DVD, LTHR, EZ TERMS!

$6,935

#KP26952A, 4X4, MNRF, “HANDYMAN”, $1,312 OFF KBB

#KP1537, BEAUTY! MNRF, $1,130 OFF KBB

10 Nissan Cube S Wgn $12,470

08 Infinity EX35 Journey $17,988

#KP65239, 21K!! FAC WARR! $589 OFF KBB

#KP05257, MNRF/LHTR, $1,189 OFF KBB

UNDER $10,995

MORE VEHICLES

00 Mercedes E320 WGN..................$2,988

03 Acura RSX CPE...........................$8,488

06 Nissan Pathfinder SE...................$11,988

10 Mazda CX-9..............................$17,970

01 Chevy Suburban 1500.................$4,498

09 Suzuki SX4 Crossover.................$8,990

11 Honda Civic LX.........................$14,588

13 Dodge Dart................................$18,470

#KP30260, AWD, RARE! 3RD ROW, MNRF, “HANDYMAN”

#KP06988, 4WD, DVD, LTHR, RAC, RARE FIND! “HANDYMAN”

07 Chrysler PT Cruiser....................$6,988 #KR49355, NICE! PW/PLC, TLT

03 Dodge Ram 1500 SLT.................$7,990 #KP81341, AT, PW/PLC, CC, CD, EZ TERMS!!

G558470

01 Infinity Q45

#KP15597, PRISTINE! 75K!! AT, MNRF, LTHR, P/OPTIONS

#KP61040, 4WD, PAMPERED! MNRF, DVD, LTHR, BOSE CD

#KP01627, AWD, NAV, AUTO, SAB, P/OPTS, DON’T MISS!

#KP16976, AT, AC, PW/PLC, PMR, CC, CD

#KR04845, BEST BUY!! MNRF, ALLOYS, 3RD SEAT, CD-6

#KP24824, IMMAC, 39K! MNRF, LTHR/PWR SEAT, CD6

09 Dodge Journey SXT....................$9,845 07 Mazda Mazda5...........................$9,995

#KR36721, CLEAN! 3RD SEAT, AT, CD-6, PW/PLC, SAB

#KP18460, FAC WARR! PW/PLC/PMR, CC, CD, 3RD SEAT

10 Hyundai Sonata LTD.................$15,988

#KR73090, SHOWROOM COND, 3K! NAV, PSEAT/L, MNRF

11 Ford Econoline E-350 XLT.......$17,970

#KA81433, 4WD, SHOWROOM, 31K! MNRF, LTHR, CD-6

#KN03615, 12 PASS, CLEAN! PW/PLC, RAC, PARK SENSE

10 Toyota RAV4 Limited................$19,988 10 Chrylser Twn & Cntry LTD.......$22,988

#KP51814, PAMPERED, 37K!, NAV, DVD, PWR FLDG SEAT