Contributor Opinion By Anne Robbins: Employee Compensation Program Unwise And Inappropriate

>To All: For many, many months, I have fought this massive employee compensation, and it seemed that nobody, but Phyllis Marcuccio, our Rockville citizens, and members of other governments, have listened to me. Thank you, Randy Alton, for your recognition that residents have heard the call and will respond. Sadly, our friends in other governments, will think twice when Rockville needs a handout, and that day will come. Rockville taxpayers will pay higher fees and the 4th year of a property tax reduction rate has been scuttled, (I had hoped this would be an annual policy), to fund this unwise, untimely, and inappropriate $1.7 million dollar employee compensation plan. (I exempt our employees covered by a union contract, from any reduction, as I honor union contracts.)

Mayor [Susan] Hoffmann has written about ” punishing our hardworking staff” to not give this huge compensation to the Rockville employees; nothing could be further from the truth as I recognize and honor our superior work force, many of whom, I have known for years. I believe that it would give these employees a good feeling to join other governments in making a statement that, “we are all in the same boat”, recognizing that we are all living in the worst recession since after WWII.

Anne Robbins
City Council Member

This contributor opinion is by Council Member Anne Robbins. It is in response to a letter by Randy Alton published in the Gazette.

This is a contributor opinion. Rockville Central encourages readers to submit such opinions for consideration — the more voices the better. We especially welcome people who disagree with us. We ask that all such contributions be civil and we reserve the right to edit (in consultation with the author) or reject. Contributor opinions should not be seen as reflecting opinions held by Rockville Central editors, as they are just as frequently at odds with our own views. That’s the whole point!

Contributor Opinion By Mark Pierzchala: Support Closure Of Princeton Place Fence; Only Open When Smoking Areas Are Provided On Campus

>This is a contributor opinion. Rockville Central encourages readers to submit such opinions for consideration — the more voices the better. We especially welcome people who disagree with us. We ask that all such contributions be civil and we reserve the right to edit (in consultation with the author) or reject. Contributor opinions should not be seen as reflecting opinions held by Rockville Central editors, as they are just as frequently at odds with our own views. That’s the whole point!

One more note. Mark has announced that he is running for City Council. We do not know of other declared candidates yet; as we do, we will try to make sure we provide a balanced forum for all voices.

Dear College Garden Neighbors (via the College Gardens Forum ListServe),

Montgomery College has informed the City of Rockville that with respect to the Princeton Place access to Montgomery College, it plans to “modify and close the opening of the fence to provide immediate relief for the residents. College and city staff agree that immediate relief has to be provided to those residents most adversely affected by the College’s Tobacco Free Campus policy. The College expects to close the opening and erect a new fence beginning as soon as February 28, 2009.”


The information above comes from an internal City memorandum dated February 23, 2009. One of the action items on the memorandum is that there will be a stakeholder’s meeting on March 16 where various options will be presented and feedback from the stakeholders gathered.
Since I’m running for City Council some people including some neighbors would like me to reiterate my oft-stated position on this issue. There are two points: First, given the current Montgomery College policy of absolutely no smoking on campus, I support the closure of the fence to provide relief for the campus’s near neighbors on Princeton Place. The impacts on them have been severe and real. Second, I would support the re-opening of the fence but only if this is accompanied by the implementation of a smoking area on campus. I can’t see any other solution that would provide permanent relief to the Princeton Place residents while re-establishing access.

Please keep in mind that it is Montgomery College that has caused the problem. The Princeton Place residents are defending their children and their property; I can’t fault them for that. We should not allow unilateral action by Montgomery College to cause a rift in our neighborhoods.

With the current MC policy, either keeping the gate open or closing it, would have negative impacts on the community. This fact was clearly established in Citizen’s Forum to Mayor and Council and in testimony to the Planning Commission and the MC Board of Trustees the past several weeks. It is my opinion that the only unifying position for our community is if both College Gardens and Plymouth Woods rally around a position for the College to modify its policy and establish one smoking area on campus.

Other groups, such as the Rockville Bike Advisory Committee should also make the establishment of a campus smoking area central to their efforts to re-open access. Further, I call on Mayor and Council to formally state such a position by resolution. The facts are known and other so-called solutions have been proposed and found lacking. Though I recognize that individual council members have been vocally supportive, it is time for all our elected to go on record and to formally take a clear and strong stand in defense of its neighborhoods.

Yours,

Mark Pierzchala

Contributor Opinion By Art Stigile: Response To Redgate Golfers

>This is a contributor opinion. Rockville Central encourages readers to submit such opinions for consideration — the more voices the better. We especially welcome people who disagree with us. We ask that all such contributions be civil and we reserve the right to edit (in consultation with the author) or reject. Contributor opinions should not be seen as reflecting opinions held by Rockville Central editors, as they are just as frequently at odds with our own views. That’s the whole point!

The following contributor opinion is by Art Stigile.

I read with interest Joe Jordan’s recent contributor’s opinion about the RedGate Golf Course, and I listened closely to the statements made by many golfers at the recent Citizen’s Forum. Golf is not my game, but I understand and respect their passion. I think hockey is life. But if golf is your passion, I hope you can continue to enjoy playing at RedGate for many years.

Unfortunately, nothing that I heard from golfers deals with one very important inconvenient truth. RedGate is drowning in a sea of red ink, and taxpayers are being asked to fork over increasingly large subsidies for as far as the eye can see. Over its first 28 years, golfers paid for all of RedGate’s operating and capital expenses. Since FY99, the golf course has operated in the red every year, except one, despite receiving $600,000 in taxpayers subsidies over the past three years. The current budget projects an FY09 deficit of $275,745 that grows to $388,479 in four years. By the end of FY13, RedGate’s cumulative deficit is expected to exceed $2 million – more than the expenses to run RedGate for one year. Red seems to be the appropriate color for the golf course.

Who’s paying for this? Taxpayers.

It wasn’t supposed to be this way. In May 2006, Mayor and Council approved a Five Year Business Plan for RedGate. (See here.) The Plan promised to put RedGate “in the black” by FY09.

By any measure, the Plan has failed.

The Plan identified two key ingredients to success – average dollars spent per round, and total rounds played. Below are the Plan’s projections for both measures and results to date. Results have fallen far short of the Plan, and the results for FY09 will not be any better, given the sharp drop in rounds played last summer.


I have 2 questions for golfers. Why should we taxpayers subsidize golfers? How much subsidy is enough?

The closest thing to answer that I’ve heard is that the City subsidizes other recreation, so why shouldn’t it subsidize golfers? I’ll tell you why. I pay high taxes, with no complaints, to fund services that benefit all of us – a first-class police force, good roads, conservation of our natural resources, snow removal – and to provide opportunities to less fortunate folks who are struggling to stay afloat in the worst economy in 35 years. I don’t expect to pay high taxes to subsidize middle-class adults who can afford to pay for their favorite recreation.

If golfers disagree, if golfers feel they are entitled to a taxpayer subsidy, then I have a suggestion. The Community Services section of the Rockville budget provides funding to nonprofits that provide social services to the needy. Let’s add a line for Taxpayer Subsidies to Golfers. That way, golfers can come down to City Hall each year and explain to Mayor and Council and to all taxpayers why they have a higher priority than folks who are finding it hard to stay in their homes and pay for their kids’ health care.

Frankly, I’d rather spend my tax dollars helping the truly needy.

There is an alternative. Increase fees immediately by $7-8 per round of golf, and it would eliminate the annual deficit.

Art Stigile

Events In Rockville 2/19/09 - 3/1/09

>Pick of the Week

2nd Science Cafe
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
6:30 PM at Branded ’72 (formerly O’Brien’s)
Science Cafes are gaining in popularity and now we have one here in Rockville! Of course we do! Mac West, an evolutionary biologist will be speaking at this event sponsored by the Rockville Consortium For Science. Incidentally he was the consultant hired by Rockville to report on the proposed science center, which we heard much about during last week’s discussion on Rockville Central Radio about the Pink Bank. Save room for Darwins’ 200th birthday cake!

Events in Rockville

This community event listing is a partnership between Rockville Central and Rockville Living. If you would like your community event to be listed, you must submit your request through Rockville Living using this form. Your event will be considered for publication in Rockville Central’s events listing and Rockville Living’s Calendar. We need your help collecting and posting events — that is how this resource will get better and better. Please become a regular contributor by requesting a username so that you can enter the information directly to the database. We publish event listings occurring in & around our coverage area (map) on Thursdays. Please be advised that all of the event information is contributed by readers and event details can change. You should check with the source before attending. The inclusion of events is at our discretion.

Thursday, February 19

10:00 am
Conversation Club at Twinbrook Library Join us for a weekly session of informal English conversation practice. New members are welcome, no need to register. more info

10:15 am
Preschool Storytime at Rockville Public Library Stories, music, and action activities for ages 3 1/2 to 6. more info

12:00 pm
Free SCORE Business Plan Development Session at Rockville Public Library Write your business plan with the assistance of SCORE counselors and research librarians. Entrepreneurs may come back each week until their plans are completed. Each participant must bring a USB or flash drive to download and store their business plan between sessions. To register, phone 240-777-0001. Before your first session, go to www.score.org/template_gallery.html and dowload the following onto a USB drive, review them, and bring to the library:
-Business Plan Template; Sales Forecast (12 months_); Start-up Expenses; Opening Day Balance Sheet; Projected Balance Sheet; Breakeven Analysis; Cash Flow Statement (12 months); Cash Flow Statement (4 years); Competetive Analysis; Personal Financial Statement; Profit and Loss Projection (12 months); Profit and Loss Projection (3 years); and Financial Forecast. more info

1:30 pm-4:30 pm
Assertive Communication Skills for Women at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center In this workshop, you’ll learn how to express your opinions, feelings, attitudes and rights more effectively with your family, friends and co-workers, and without undue anxiety. $30, payable at registration; early registration recommended. To register or for more information, visit our website or call 240-777-8300. more info

1:30 pm
Preschool Storytime at Rockville Public Library Stories, music, and action activities for ages 3 1/2 to 6. more info

6:00 pm
Spanish Conversation Club at Rockville Public Library Practice and improve your Spanish through conversation. Every Thursday, 6:00-7:30. more info

6:00 pm
African American Book Discussion Group at Rockville Public Library The African American Book Discussion Group of Rockville Library will meet in Meeting Room One, on the first floor, and discuss the book “Sula”, by Toni Morrison. You must be 18 years of age or older to participate. For additional information, contact Dianne Betsey at 240-777-0078. more info

7:30 pm
Meet Bryan Prince, author of A Shadow on the Household: One Enslaved Family’s Incredible Struggle for Freedom at Barnes & Noble Bryan Prince will speak about his new book, A Shadow on the Household, about the Weems family of Montgomery County and their struggles to free themselves from slavery and reunite. Shannon Prince, dressed in 19th century garb, will bring several of the characters to life with brief re-enactments. There will be an opportunity to buy the book and have it signed. This event is co-sponsored by Barnes & Noble and Peerless Rockville Historic
Preservation, Ltd. More about the book and author more info

Friday, February 20

10:00 am
English Conversation Club at Rockville Public Library The English Conversation Club, for new speakers of English, meets every Tuesday and Friday at 10 a.m.(in meeting room #1 on Tuesday and meeting room #2 on Friday) of the Rockville Library. No registration is required. more info

10:15 am
Storytime for 2′s and 3′s at Rockville Public Library Stories and activities for ages 2-3 with an adult. more info

Saturday, February 21

10:15 am
Cuddle ups for walkers at Rockville Public Library Stories, songs, and rhymes for ages 12 to 24 months, with an adult. more info

1:00 pm
Craft for Kids at Twinbrook Library Join us for a craft for all ages run by 4H Club volunteers.
“Bark, Bark, Do Art” 1:00pm-3:00pm. more info

9:00 pm
Live Music Saturday Night: Under Cover Band at The Potomac Grill The Potomac Grill is Proud to present to you: The Under Cover Band: UnderCover is Rock n’ Roll …distilled down to its roots…. Danceable, Fun, Lots of Energy… more info

Sunday, February 22

1:00 pm-3:00 pm
Annual Student Art Show at Glenview Mansion Art Gallery at Glenview Mansion Students who live or attend school in Rockville, grades K-12 are invited to deliver 1 piece of 2-D or 3-D artwork on February 22nd between 1pm - 3pm to be exhibited in Rockville’s annual Student Art Show. The exhibit will run from March 1 - March 24, 2009.
more info

Monday, February 23

10:00 am-12:00 pm
Improve Your Memory at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center Memory problems? The good news is that memory quality and capacity can be improved with exercise. Come to this workshop and learn the appropriate exercises to improve your memory. $20, payable at registration; early registration recommended. To register or for more information, visit our website or call 240-777-8300. more info

6:45 pm
CONVERSATION CLUB at Twinbrook Library Join us for our informal conversation classes, as we practice speaking English every Monday at 6:30pm. New members are always welcome, no need to register. more info

7:00 pm
Act it Out Kids Book Club at Rockville Public Library For children in grades Kindergarten, first and second grades. We will share stories and act them out. Please register at 240-777-0140. more info

7:15 pm
American Sign Language Practice Club at Rockville Public Library Volunteer coaches will be available to help participants practice sign language. Participants must have already taken a sign language class. Drop in, registration is not required. For more information, contact Library Services to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community at [email protected] or 240-777-0001 or TTY # 240-777-0902. more info

Tuesday, February 24

10:00 am-12:00 pm
Negotiating Salaries and Benefits at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center Knowing negotiating strategies can help when you’re seeking a position or want to improve your present job. You’ll learn concepts and techniques in this workshop that can help your career. $20, payable at registration; early registration recommended. To register or for more information, visit our website or call 240-777-8300. more info

10:00 am
English Conversation Club at Rockville Public Library The English Conversation Club, for new speakers of English, meets every Tuesday and Friday at 10 a.m.(in meeting room #1 on Tuesday and meeting room #2 on Friday) of the Rockville Library. No registration is required. more info

10:30 am
Preschool Storytime at Twinbrook Library Stories, songs, fingerplays, chants, and a short simple craft.
more info

6:30 pm-8:30 pm
Conflict-Resolution for Couples at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center This workshop gives couples a framework to use to tackle small conflicts and reach resolution through negotiation goodwill, and the communication tools learned in our “Let’s Talk” workshop. [Prerequisite: must have taken the "Let's Talk" workshop.] Couples only; limited to 10 couples. Must be interviewed (by phone) before registering. Call Louise Hanson at 240-777-8300. $20 per person, payable at registration. more info

6:30 pm
Rockville Science Cafe at Branded ’72 Join us at the Rockville SCIENCE CAFE, an informal gathering at Branded ’72 (previously O’Briens), to celebrate Darwin’s 200th birthday. Dr. Mac West, an evolutionary biologist, will be the speaker.

8:00 pm
Academy of St. Martin in the Fields with Julia Fischer, violin at Music Center at Strathmore No classical music library is complete without the iconic recordings of this fabled ensemble, beloved for their “marvelously etched, musicianly performance” (The Birmingham Post, England). In this 50th Anniversary U.S. tour, the Academy is joined by Gramophone Magazine’s 2007 Artist of the Year, violinist Julia Fischer.
BRITTEN Variations on a Them
e of Frank Bridge
BACH Violin Concerto in A Minor
BACH Concerto for Violin No. 2 in E Major, BWV 1042
WALTON Sonata for Strings
Program subject to change
NEWS! January 28, 2009: Academy of St. Martin in the Fields and Julia Fischer’s album, released January 27, 2009, shot straight to the number one spot on the Billboard Classical Music Chart! more info

Wednesday, February 25

6:00 pm
Crochet Club at Twinbrook Library Join us every Wednesday as we meet to learn and/or practice our crocheting skills. more info

8:00 pm
Chris Chandler & Paul Benoit and special guest Pam Parker at Branded ’72 “Don’t expect a typical folkie. Chandler has been called ‘a performance poet’ whose wordy creations owe as much to the traditions of theater and slam poetry as to music. If he had been born in another time, Chandler would have been a roaming minstrel or an edgy court jester. As his press materials assert, ‘Today, gritty road warriors do the same — outside the castle walls of corporate America,’ and Chandler calls himself ‘a troubadour road warrior.’ ” — The Washington Post

Thursday, February 26

10:00 am-12:00 pm
When a Loved One Leaves Home at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center If a loved one has moved out, your family dynamics change. Join us in this workshop, where we’ll talk about the emotions you may be feeling, the changes in your home life, and steps you can take to make your home nurturing place for you, filled with positive memories and new dreams. $20, payable at registration; early registration recommended. To registe or for more information, visit our website or call 240-777-8300. more info

10:00 am
Conversation Club at Twinbrook Library Join us for a weekly session of informal English conversation practice. New members are welcome, no need to register. more info

10:15 am
Preschool Storytime at Rockville Public Library Stories, music, and action activities for ages 3 1/2 to 6. more info

1:30 pm
Preschool Storytime at Rockville Public Library Stories, music, and action activities for ages 3 1/2 to 6. more info

6:00 pm
Spanish Conversation Club at Rockville Public Library Practice and improve your Spanish through conversation. Every Thursday, 6:00-7:30. more info

8:00 pm-10:30 pm
Victorian Lyric Opera Company presents The Merry Widow at F. Scott Fitzgerald Theater VLOC presents Franz Lehar’s The Merry Widow. This operetta is an intoxicating whirl of elegant ladies, eligible bachelors, can-can dancers and ever-flowing champagne.
Tickets: $20 Adult, $15 Senior and Student. Half-price preview performance on February 26. more info

12:00 pm
Free SCORE Business Plan Development Session at Rockville Public Library Write your business plan with the assistance of SCORE counselors and research librarians. Entrepreneurs may come back each week until their plans are completed. Each participant must bring a USB or flash drive to download and store their business plan between sessions. To register, phone 240-777-0001. Before your first session, go to www.score.org/template_gallery.html and dowload the following onto a USB drive, review them, and bring to the library:
-Business Plan Template; Sales Forecast (12 months_); Start-up Expenses; Opening Day Balance Sheet; Projected Balance Sheet; Breakeven Analysis; Cash Flow Statement (12 months); Cash Flow Statement (4 years); Competetive Analysis; Personal Financial Statement; Profit and Loss Projection (12 months); Profit and Loss Projection (3 years); and Financial Forecast. more info

Friday, February 27

10:00 am-12:00 pm
Divorce Legal Seminar, Part II (child-related issues) at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center Attorney-led overview of legal and physical custody, visitation, child suport and health insurance. Offered monthly. [Non-child-related issues covered in Divorce Legal Seminar, Part I, on Feb. 13.] $20, payable at registration; early registration recommended. To register or for more information, visit our website or call 240-777-8300. more info

10:00 am-12:00 pm
Perfectionism at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center Is your self-worth based on achievement? Do you selectively see your mistakes but not your accomplishments? In this informative and supportive seminar, you’ll learn realistic steps you can take to successfully manage your perfectionist tendencies. $20, payable a registration; early registration recommended. To register or for more information, visit our website or call 240-777-8300. more info

10:00 am
English Conversation Club at Rockville Public Library The English Conversation Club, for new speakers of English, meets every Tuesday and Friday at 10 a.m.(in meeting room #1 on Tuesday and meeting room #2 on Friday) of the Rockville Library. No registration is required. more info

10:15 am
Cuddle ups for pre-walkers at Rockville Public Library Stories, songs, and rhymes for ages 0-12 months, with an adult. more info

8:00 pm-10:30 pm
Victorian Lyric Opera Company presents The Merry Widow at F. Scott Fitzgerald Theater VLOC presents Franz Lehar’s The Merry Widow. This operetta is an intoxicating whirl of elegant ladies, eligible bachelors, can-can dancers and ever-flowing champagne.
Tickets: $20 Adult, $15 Senior and Student. There will be a half-price preview performance on February 26. href="http://www.rockvillemd.gov/theatre">more info

Saturday, February 28

10:15 am
Storytime for 2′s and 3′s at Rockville Public Library Stories and activities for ages 2-3 with an adult. more info

11:00 am
Family Storytime at Twinbrook Library Join us for a storytime designed for families with young children. All ages welcome. more info

7:00 pm-10:00 pm
Open Mic Night at Pump House Open Mic night. All ages welcome. No amps required (unless it’s very small). Bring your own munchies and NON-alcoholic beverages. Space limited. Send questions to [email protected] more info

8:00 pm-10:30 pm
Victorian Lyric Opera Company presents The Merry Widow at F. Scott Fitzgerald Theater VLOC presents Franz Lehar’s The Merry Widow. This operetta is an intoxicating whirl of elegant ladies, eligible bachelors, can-can dancers and ever-flowing champagne.
Tickets: $20 Adult, $15 Senior and Student. There will be a half-price preview performance on February 26. more info

9:00 pm
Live Music Saturday Night: Sherwood Blues at The Potomac Grill more info

Sunday, March 1

2:00 pm-4:30 pm
Victorian Lyric Opera Company presents The Merry Widow at F. Scott Fitzgerald Theater VLOC presents Franz Lehar’s The Merry Widow. This operetta is an intoxicating whirl of elegant ladies, eligible bachelors, can-can dancers and ever-flowing champagne.
Tickets: $20 Adult, $15 Senior and Student. There will be a half-price preview performance on February 26. March 1 is Community Outreach Day. Two students (15 & under) are free with each paying adult. There will also be backstage tours and children’s activities. more info

If you attend an event, we invite you to write a Contributor Review. Just send it in and we will consider it. Rules: Event is in Rockville; fairly recent; article is your work; you are not offering it for publication elsewhere. Try to keep it under 500 words; we will edit for length. Include a photo if you have one!

Contributor Opinion By Joseph Jordan: Connect The Dots On Redgate

>This is a contributor opinion. Rockville Central encourages readers to submit such opinions for consideration — the more voices the better. We especially welcome people who disagree with us. We ask that all such contributions be civil and we reserve the right to edit (in consultation with the author) or reject. Contributor opinions should not be seen as reflecting opinions held by Rockville Central authors, as they are just as frequently at odds with our own views. That’s the whole point!

The following contributor opinion is by Joseph Jordan.

I have been hesitant to write an opinion piece on the controversy over how Redgate Golf Course will be managed. My hesitancy stemmed from weighing what might be best for the “factory”…the golf course itself, versus what would be best for the Redgate staff, residents of Rockville and the men, women and children that enjoy what Redgate offers. After Monday’s amazing outpouring, it is obvious to me, the City must keep management of Redgate with the City.

If you have been following the story in the Gazette and Sentinel, or watched the Council meeting Monday, you know the City is moving in the direction of turning the management of Redgate over to a third party, viz. the Montgomery County Revenue Authority. Brad Rourke covered the essence of what went on during Citizen Forum Monday. Over 60 people turned out in support of the City keeping management of the golf course within the City, and 25 to 30 of those spoke publicly to that point. While Brad did “..note that the depth of support did appear to move members of the Mayor and Council…”, it is my opinion all it did was maybe slow down an inevitable conclusion. Here is why I think that, and I welcome differing views.

First of all, it is extremely frustrating trying to get opinions made public because the Council has decided to meet every other week rather than weekly, and the Gazette and Sentinel are weekly publications. I love the idea of Rockville Central, but doubt it is seen by as many people that follow Council meetings or read the paper. So, here is what I want Rockville Central readers to do…please connect the dots on this Redgate business. I said from the very start that this was on a fast-track, a moving freight train that would be difficult to stop, or even slow down. However, as stated above, we did slow it down a bit this week. Why? Consider what was said by Councilmember [Piotr] Gajewski and Mayor [Susan] Hoffmann at Monday’s meeting..”…of course we will take public comment.”, “…we will of course have a hearing.”

Okay, now consider the facts stated by the City Manager, Scott Ullery, in this week’s Gazette. The target date to consummate the deal is April 1. The draft lease is expected to go before the council on March 23rd, which will be in general session. Without too much strain on the brain, one can deduce that, before the turnout Monday, the council will have had to vote on the decision that evening in order to meet the April 1 target date. To now say a public hearing will be held the following week, March 30th, and was always going to be held, is disingenuous at best. This, no doubt, would move the date for the Revenue Authority to take over because I assume the council will have to wait for the next council meeting to vote, which would be April 6th.

What is at issue is more than who manages Redgate. The issue is how our City government has chosen to do business. I continue to maintain things were done behind closed doors to prevent such outpourings as Monday and to get the deal closed as quickly as possible. The timeline was about as short as you could get it and still do business in a responsible fashion. I don’t want to see this swept under the carpet like other issues we still have no answers to, such as the Town Center pavers debacle. I believe we need to have all the facts on the evolution of this proposed deal. When did discussions start? Who was in those discussions? Who initiated the deal? Were RFP’s or RFQ’s sent to other golf course management companies? If not, why not; if not, were there even informal discussions with other management firms?

A public hearing is great, but to paraphrase the newly-former governor of Illinois…let’s hang him…wait, he’s entitled to a fair trial….right, let’s give him a trial then hang him.

Regardless of where you stand on whether or not Rockville should own and manage a golf course, please consider expressing your opinion at the public hearing on the 30th of March. You don’t have to a golfer. If you think the City should not run Redgate, come and tell them that and why. Likewise if you have an opposite view. But remember this, every Parks and Recreation facility and program is open to residents and non-residents, not only the golf course. Remember, every operation under Parks and Recreation gets taxpayer subsidies…not one I am aware of pays for itself, and Redgate is one that does (on a cash basis) or comes closest, and ask yourself why the golf course is the only amenity in the Parks and Rec department that remains an Enterprise Fund, exposing it like no other amenity, and not placed in the General Fund. I know it is a long way off, so write it on your calendars. Post your opinions here on Rockville Central. Watch a replay of Monday’s Council meeting on TRC 11, or at your convenience on the City website.

I won’t have many friends in City Hall these days, but I am passionate about this idea of openness and transparency. You should be too.

Joseph Jordan

Events In Rockville 2/12/09 - 2/22/09

>Pick of the Week

Celebrate Black History Month with
The 14th Annual African-American Heritage Production
Featuring The Finest! Youth Performance Troupe
Friday, February 13, 2009 at 8 PM
Saturday, February 14 at 2 PM
F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre

This year it’s “Broadway Bound” where you’ll learn about African-American performers, activists, inventors, and educators and their contributions to American society. Here’s how the City press release describes the performance: “Set in New York City on Broadway, the show features portrayals of everyday people going about their lives as well as Josephine Baker and Bill “Bojangles” Robinson. The performance includes scenes from “Raisin in the Sun,” “Purlie,” “Sarafina,” “Fences” and “The Color Purple” and a rousing dance number from “Bring in ‘Da Noise, Bring in ‘Da Funk” that will have the audience tapping their feet.”

Check out the cool myspace page for Kashi-Tara and Kelly Chauncey, who are back in Rockville to bring out the absolute best artistic abilities of our youth. They go beyond choreographing to teaching life lessons. The 40 cast members range in age from 5 years through adulthood and they’re all from the Rockville area.

Tickets for the show are $15 adults and $10 seniors 60 and older and children 12 and younger. To purchase tickets call the Box Office at 240-314-8690 or visit in person between 2-7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Tickets are also available online or from performers in the show.

Events in Rockville

This community event listing is a partnership between Rockville Central and Rockville Living. If you would like your community event to be listed, you must submit your request through Rockville Living using this form. Your event will be considered for publication in Rockville Central’s events listing and Rockville Living’s Calendar. We need your help collecting and posting events — that is how this resource will get better and better. Please become a regular contributor by requesting a username so that you can enter the information directly to the database. We publish event listings occurring in & around our coverage area (map) on Thursdays. Please be advised that all of the event information is contributed by readers and event details can change. You should check with the source before attending. The inclusion of events is at our discretion.

Thursday, February 12

10:00 am
Conversation Club at Twinbrook Library Join us for a weekly session of informal English conversation practice. New members are welcome, no need to register. more info

10:15 am
Preschool Storytime at Rockville Public Library Stories, music, and action activities for ages 3 1/2 to 6. more info

12:00 pm
Free SCORE Business Plan Development Session at Rockville Public Library Write your business plan with the assistance of SCORE counselors and research librarians. Entrepreneurs may come back each week until their plans are completed. Each participant must bring a USB or flash drive to download and store their business plan between sessions. To register, phone 240-777-0001. more info

1:30 pm
Preschool Storytime at Rockville Public Library Stories, music, and action activities for ages 3 1/2 to 6. more info

6:00 pm
Spanish Conversation Club at Rockville Public Library Practice and improve your Spanish through conversation. Every Thursday, 6:00-7:30. more info

6:00 pm-8:00 pm
International Association of Administrative Professionals Montgomery County Chapter Meeting at Rockville Public Library “Setting Yourself Apart in a Competitive Market: How Working with a Staffing Agency Can Advance Your Professional Edge”
Presenter: Mr. David Lakner, Account Executive, Ultimate Staffing 6:00 Networking/Light Refreshments; 6:30 Program. Members: $5, Guests Free. It’s past the RSVP date of 02/10 [email protected] more info

7:00 pm-8:30 pm
Social Bullies: Dealing with Cliques and Exclusion at Rockville Senior Center Every day thousands of teens wake up afraid to go to school. Bullying is a problem that affects millions of students of all races and classes. Bullying has everyone worried, not just the kids on its receiving end. Yet because parents, teachers, and other adults don’t always see it, they may not understand how extreme bullying can get. People used to think of bullies as the big kid on the playground taking your lunch money. Today, girls and boys are using less direct techniques to bully such as forming cliques, exclusion, rumors, and teasing. These bullies are less likely to identify their behavior as bullying. Come and explore these behaviors and discuss strategies for he
lping bullies, victims and bystanders. Children and teens welcome to attend with a parent or guardian. Call: (240)-314-8620 to register or go to www.rockvillemd.gov and click on enroll. Course #26791. For additional information contact Cynthia Bangali, Program Coordinator at (240)-314-8317.

8:00 pm
Town Hall Meeting with Councilmember Piotr Gajewski at Rockville City Hall Councilmember Piotr Gajewski will lead a townhall meeting on Thursday, Feb. 12, at 8 p.m. at Rockville’s City Hall. The agenda for the meeting will include a discussion of topics, such as the budget and taxes, appointment of the new in-house city attorney, Bealls Grant II, RedGate Golf Course and the Twinbrook Plan. “Given the difficult fiscal climate, I especially look forward to hearing from citizens with ideas on what the City’s budgeting priorities should be as the Mayor and Council begin work on the FY10 budget,” Gajewski said. The meeting will be held in the Black-Eyed Susan room at City Hall, located at 111 Maryland Ave. For more information, contact the City Clerk’s Office at 240-314-8280.

Friday, February 13

10:00 am
English Conversation Club at Rockville Public Library The English Conversation Club, for new speakers of English, meets every Tuesday and Friday at 10 a.m.(in meeting room #1 on Tuesday and meeting room #2 on Friday) of the Rockville Library. No registration is required. more info

10:00 am-12:00 pm
Dealing with Workplace Stress at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center Whether you’re grappling with new policies, programs and procedures or trying to do more with less, this workshop can help. You’ll learn how to channel workplace stress and frustration into cooperative, creative action, greater productivity and team-building. $20, payable at registration; early registration recommended. To register or for more information, visit our website or call 240-777-8300. more info

10:00 am-12:00 pm
Divorce Legal Seminar, Part I (non-child-related issues) at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center Attorney-led overview of grounds for divorce, spousal support, property distribution, settlement agreements, choosing an attorney, and methods of dispute-resolution other than litigation. Offered monthly. [Child-related divorce issues covered in Divorce Legal Seminar, Part II, on Feb. 27.] $20, payable at registration; early registration recommended. To register or for more information, visit our website or call 240-777-8300. more info

10:15 am
Cuddle ups for pre-walkers at Rockville Public Library Stories, songs, and rhymes for ages 0-12 months, with an adult. more info

8:00 pm-10:30 pm
The Finest! Broadway Bound: African-Americans on Broadway at F. Scott Fitzgerald Theater The Finest! presents the 14th Annual African-American Heritage Production.
Broadway Bound: African-Americans on Broadway.
Enjoy a sampling of the arts and techniques African-Americans have contributed both on and off stage. Tickets $15 Adult, $10 Senior and Children more info

Saturday, February 14

10:15 am
Storytime for 2′s and 3′s at Rockville Public Library Stories and activities for ages 2-3 with an adult. more info

11:00 am
Family Storytime at Twinbrook Library Join us for a storytime designed for families with young children. All ages welcome. more info

11:00 am
Dinner Specials All Day for Valentine’s Day at The Potomac Grill Enjoy The Best & Most Affordable St Valenetine’s Specials on The Pike. Have your pick of The Best Selling Entrees of The Year All in One Special Night Price is $38.00 All Including, Salad, Dessert, Soft Drink, Coffe, and Your Pick off Six Fabulous Entress

2:00 pm-4:30 pm
The Finest! Broadway Bound: African-Americans on Broadway at F. Scott Fitzgerald Theater The Finest! presents the 14th Annual African-American Heritage Production.
Broadway Bound: African-Americans on Broadway. Enjoy a sampling of the arts and techniques African-Americans have contributed both on and off stage. Tickets $15 Adult, $10 Senior and Children more info

2:00 pm
Puppet Stories at Rockville Public Library Kaydee Puppets will perform “The Princess and the Pea” and “The Little Red Hen’s Wacky Week” for children ages 3 to 8.

9:00 pm
Live Music Saturday Night: Skyla Burrell Blues Band at The Potomac Grill “With a female vocalist whose voice jumps out and grabs you by the blues, The Skyla Burrell blues band is the real deal in a solid package that stays true to the real meaning of their genre.”
- St. Croix Music Magazine

Monday, February 16

6:30 pm
CONVERSATION CLUB at Twinbrook Library Join us for our informal conversation classes, as we practice speaking English every Monday at 6:30pm. New members are always welcome, no need to register. more info

Tuesday, February 17

10:00 am
English Conversation Club at Rockville Public Library The English Conversation Club, for new speakers of English, meets every Tuesday and Friday at 10 a.m.(in meeting room #1 on Tuesday and meeting room #2 on Friday) of the Rockville Library. No registration is required. more info

10:30 am
Preschool Storytime at Twinbrook Library Storytime for 2-5 yr olds include stories, songs, rhymes, stretches, and a simple craft.<br> more info

6:00 pm-9:00 pm
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center This trusted and widely-used p
ersonality assessment will identify your personality type. With that knowledge, it can help you improve your work and personal relationships by understanding how different personality types relate to each other. Offered monthly. $50, payable at registration; early registration recommended. To register or for more information, visit our website or call 240-777-8300. more info

6:30 pm-8:30 pm
Caring Communication for Couples at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center Each person in a relationship has different ways of expressing affection and love. In this workshop, you’ll learn to recognize what you and your mate each need to feel loved, respected and secure. You’ll also gain valuable insight into understanding each other’s ways of communicating. Couples only; limited to 10 couples. Must be interviewed (by phone) before registering. Call Louise Hanson at 240-777-8300. more info

7:30 pm
Twinbrook Book Club at Twinbrook Library Join us every third Tuesday as we discuss the choice of the month.<br>Everyone is welcome, no need to register. more info

Wednesday, February 18

6:00 pm
Crochet Club at Twinbrook Library Join us every Wednesday as we meet to learn and/or practice our crocheting skills. more info

6:30 pm-8:30 pm
Divorce, Money and You at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center Come to this workshop to learn about the potential financial consequences of divorce and how both partners can get equitable financial settlements at divorce. $20, payable at registration; early registration recommended. To register or for more information, visit our website or call 240-777-8300. more info

6:30 pm-9:00 pm
Getting Paid To Talk: An Introduction to Voice Overs at Rockville Senior Center This exciting class will explore numerous aspects of voice over work for television, film, radio, audio books, documentaries and the internet in your area. We will cover all the basics including how to prepare the all-important demo, how to be successful and earn great income in this exciting field. Students will have the opportunity to ask questions and to hear examples of demos recorded by professional voice actors. Class participants will even have a chance to record a commercial script under the direction of a professional producer. This class is informative, fun, and a great first step for anyone interested in voice acting professionally. Fee: $21 Registration Information: (301)762-4284 more info

Thursday, February 19

1:30 pm-4:30 pm
Assertive Communication Skills for Women at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center In this workshop, you’ll learn how to express your opinions, feelings, attitudes and rights more effectively with your family, friends and co-workers, and without undue anxiety. $30, payable at registration; early registration recommended. To register or for more information, visit our website or call 240-777-8300. more info

7:30 pm
Meet Bryan Prince, author of A Shadow on the Household: One Enslaved Family’s Incredible Struggle for Freedom at Barnes & Noble Bryan Prince will speak about his new book, A Shadow on the Household, about the Weems family of Montgomery County and their struggles to free themselves from slavery and reunite. Shannon Prince, dressed in 19th century garb, will bring several of the characters to life with brief re-enactments. There will be an opportunity to buy the book and have it signed. This event is co-sponsored by Barnes & Noble and Peerless Rockville Historic Preservation, Ltd. More about the book and author more info

Saturday, February 21

9:00 pm
Live Music Saturday Night: Under Cover Band at The Potomac Grill The Potomac Grill is Proud to present to you: The Under Cover Band: UnderCover is Rock n’ Roll …distilled down to its roots…. Danceable, Fun, Lots of Energy… more info

Monday, February 23

10:00 am-12:00 pm
Improve Your Memory at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center Memory problems? The good news is that memory quality and capacity can be improved with exercise. Come to this workshop and learn the appropriate exercises to improve your memory. $20, payable at registration; early registration recommended. To register or for more information, visit our website or call 240-777-8300. more info

Tuesday, February 24

10:00 am-12:00 pm
Negotiating Salaries and Benefits at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center Knowing negotiating strategies can help when you’re seeking a position or want to improve your present job. You’ll learn concepts and techniques in this workshop that can help your career. $20, payable at registration; early registration recommended. To register or for more information, visit our website or call 240-777-8300. more info

6:30 pm-8:30 pm
Conflict-Resolution for Couples at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center This workshop gives couples a framework to use to tackle small conflicts and reach resolution through negotiation goodwill, and the communication tools learned in our “Let’s Talk” workshop. [Prerequisite: must have taken the "Let's Talk" workshop.]
Couples only; limited to 10 couples. Must be interviewed (by phone) before registering. Call Louise Hanson at 240-777-8300. $20 per person, payable at registration. more info

8:00 pm
Academy of St. Martin in the Fields with Julia Fischer, violin at Music Center at Strathmore No classical music library is complete without the iconic recordings of this fabled ensemble, beloved for their “marvelously etched, musicianly performance” (The Birmingham Post, England). In this 50th Anniversary U.S. tour,
the Academy is joined by Gramophone Magazine’s 2007 Artist of the Year, violinist Julia Fischer.
BRITTEN Variations on a Theme of Frank Bridge
BACH Violin Concerto in A Minor
BACH Concerto for Violin No. 2 in E Major, BWV 1042
WALTON Sonata for Strings
Program subject to change
NEWS! January 28, 2009: Academy of St. Martin in the Fields and Julia Fischer’s album, released January 27, 2009, shot straight to the number one spot on the Billboard Classical Music Chart! more info

If you attend an event, we invite you to write a Contributor Review. Just send it in and we will consider it. Rules: Event is in Rockville; fairly recent; article is your work; you are not offering it for publication elsewhere. Try to keep it under 500 words; we will edit for length. Include a photo if you have one!

Contributor Opinion By Temperance Blalock: Clean Up The Old Giant Parking Lot

>The following contributor opinion is by Temperance Blalock:

Saturday night I sprained my left ankle in the “Old Giant” parking lot on North Washington St. Despite the fact that I live across the street from that parking lot, work right next to it, and walk through it or past it every day, I didn’t realize how truly dangerous it can be until I stepped into a pothole in a spot with no overhead lighting. While the parking lot looks merely run down during the day, at night it becomes a treacherous derelict.

The “Old Giant” building has been empty for many years now, and once that store closed the parking lot passed into a vague status. The lot is very large, and presents an “empty” break in the line of sight in downtown Rockville. It has become a heavily trafficked route for automobiles, since drivers like to use it as a short-cut between Hungerford Drive and North Washington, bypassing Beall Ave. That isn’t too much of a problem during the day, but at night it becomes very dangerous because the traffic lanes are not clearly defined, and thus drivers casually careen through the lot, choosing their own route regardless of parked cars or pedestrians.

The businesses that operate out of the “parking lot building” next to Gateway Tower have become increasingly popular, particularly Bobs 66 Noodle restaurant, which has a great reputation throughout the large Asian community. The Beer/Wine/Deli is also always busy, though it doesn’t generate the same volume as Bobs 66. Last Saturday night there were scores of cars parked near those businesses, which is what forced me to park in the center of the lot. When I stepped out of my car, into the darkness, I stepped almost immediately into a pothole in the asphalt, and painfully twisted my ankle.

The asphalt surface of the parking lot is in terrible shape, full of potholes. The parking lot is not lit at night, meaning that drivers and pedestrians are in danger of collision with each other. The entire place looks trashy and run-down, diminishing the attraction of nearby Town Center.

I started working at Gateway Tower in the summer of 2001, and the old Giant store was closed about a year later. Since then, the status of that piece of land has doubtless been the subject of great controversy and negotiation, of which I know very little. All that I do know for sure is that seven years is an excessively long time to allow such a large piece of real estate to crumble and deteriorate. There is no sign that it will be developed in the near future, but in the meantime there is the potential for physical danger to the people who walk and drive in that lot, and the customers who patronize those businesses. It’s time that the owners or managers of that lot be held accountable for its appearance and physical condition.

Rockville Central runs occasional, edited opinion pieces by contributors as well as other guest columns. Their views are not necessarily those of Rockville Central. We encourage you to contribute too! To submit your piece for consideration, contact us.

Contributor Opinion By John Britton: State Of The City Reprise

>[Note: a draft version of this article was inadvertently published. Its content was the same, but formatting was not included. Here it is properly set-up. Sorry for the confusion.]

The following Contributor Opinion is by City Councilmember John Britton:

I am reminded of the old adage: “Never a dull moment in local politics.” Well maybe not so old and maybe not an adage just yet, but ever so true.

As you may have heard, Mayor Susan Hoffmann will not be in attendance at the public gathering scheduled for Wednesday, February 11th. Alas, I think it unfortunate as we will miss her contributions to the public dialogue and other musings that may occur; one less perspective for the mix. The public will have to corner her another time! But, as they say (a la Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland), the show will go on. Councilmember Marcuccio and I still intend to carry on and present our perspectives on all things past, present and future, well at least those things that may be within City jurisdiction and reflect on the state of the city. And we hope our discourse can have some positive effect on the public weal. So, same place – first floor meeting room, Rockville Library; same time – February 11th, 7 p.m.; same issues – anything. All are welcome.

Remember: Buy Rockville! Save your appetites that evening for dining in Rockville Town Center either before or after the public gathering. Think of shopping a bit as well. And by all means, just don’t stop at the first floor of the library. Go inside and take advantage of our beautiful flagship library and check out a book, CD or DVD, or just enjoy the people and the surroundings.

Councilmember John Britton

Rockville Central runs occasional, edited opinion pieces by contributors as well as other guest columns. Their views are not necessarily those of Rockville Central. We encourage you to join the growing list of contributors! To submit your piece for consideration, contact us.

Further Information On Tonight's WECA Meeting

>The following is by Bridget Newton:

The meeting tonite is a meeting of the WECA Committee on Beall’s Grant II which includes representatives of MHP. It is not a Mayor and Council Meeting as is stated on their website (Meeting 3 - 09 February 5, 2009) nor is it a discussion between the Mayor and Council, WECA and MHP as was earlier announced on the city website.

To give an update on the status for tonite’s meeting, Councilmembers Robbins, Marcuccio and Britton have declined to attend. As there will no longer be a quorum, this meeting does not fall under the Maryland Public Meetings Act. Councilmember Britton has requested that the announcement of the meeting be removed from the city’s website as an official Mayor and Council meeting.

Tho our meetings are not “closed” meetings, we are a working committee and our charter is to “work with MHP to come up with a plan that is an asset to both the West End and MHP.” To date, we have made significant progress in defining our goals and principles for this important project. We have presented these principles to MHP and are looking forward to their response.

Unfortunately, the information recently published on Rockville Central misrepresents the process that we have tried to implement in the wake of earlier mishandling. By including verbiage from a Draft Agenda that Cheryl Kagen created and sent to the committee chairs, Dennis Cain and myself, Rockville Central is playing an unwitting role in the continuing drama in this already delicate situation. As Committee Chair, Dennis has responsibility for setting our agenda as he does each week. Tonite’s agenda does not include “community feedback” or a “mini-charette”. MHP is presenting their revised proposal to the Committee tonite. It would be premature and counterproductive to seek community feedback before the committee has had an opportunity to evaluate their proposal and how well it reflects the committee principles.

We had hoped to give an update on our progress at the January WECA meeting but that meeting was canceled. We look forward to giving the update in February and hope to be able to present the Committee’s recommendation to the WECA membership at a future General Membership meeting.

In the meantime, if any resident of the West End has questions about this project or the process, please feel free to contact either myself or Dennis Cain.

Respectfully,
Bridget Newton

Rockville Central welcomes contributions from all members of the Rockville community — including (and especially) ones that critique Rockville Central itself. Simply send them our way for consideration.

Events In Rockville 2/5/09 - 2/15/09

>Pick of the Week

Celtic Celebration with Maggie Sansone and Sue Richards
F. Scott Fitzgerald Theater
Friday, February 6, 2009 at 8 PM

Last year Maggie and Sue brightened our Rockville Central Radio Show with their rousing Irish folk music. During the show, a listener in our chat room excitedly recognized Maggie and exclaimed that he had her CDs! Maggie, is an internationally-known hammered dulcimer artist, who will be joined by Sue Richards on Celtic harp, Andrea Hoag on fiddle, Rob Greenway on guitar and Irish flute, Matt Bell on bodhran, Seth Kibel on sax and clarinet, and the Teelin School of Irish Dance. Rousing! Completely rousing!

Tickets: $15 adults, $13 seniors 60 & older, $13 students of any age with ID. Call 240-314-8690 or in person between 2-7 PM Tuesday-Saturday. On-line (!!!!) at www.rockvillemd.gov/theatre.

Maggie also teaches dulcimer workshops and has a “Rover” Dance Puppet Show! Picture of Maggie from her website.

Events in Rockville

This community event listing is a partnership between Rockville Central and Rockville Living. If you would like your community event to be listed, you must submit your request through Rockville Living using this form. Your event will be considered for publication in Rockville Central’s events listing and Rockville Living’s Calendar. We need your help collecting and posting events — that is how this resource will get better and better. Please become a regular contributor by requesting a username so that you can enter the information directly to the database. We publish event listings occurring in & around our coverage area (map) on Thursdays. Please be advised that all of the event information is contributed by readers and event details can change. You should check with the source before attending. The inclusion of events is at our discretion.

Thursday, February 5

10:00 am
Conversation Club at Twinbrook Library Join us for a weekly session of informal English conversation practice. New members are welcome, no need to register. more info

10:15 am
Preschool Storytime at Rockville Public Library Stories, music, and action activities for ages 3 1/2 to 6. more info

12:00 pm
Free SCORE Business Plan Development Session at Rockville Public Library Write your business plan with the assistance of SCORE counselors and research librarians. Entrepreneurs may come back each week until their plans are completed. Each participant must bring a USB or flash drive to download and store their business plan between sessions. To register, phone 240-777-0001. more info

1:30 pm
Preschool Storytime at Rockville Public Library Stories, music, and action activities for ages 3 1/2 to 6. more info

6:00 pm
Spanish Conversation Club at Rockville Public Library Practice and improve your Spanish through conversation. Every Thursday, 6:00-7:30. more info

Friday, February 6

10:00 am
English Conversation Club at Rockville Public Library The English Conversation Club, for new speakers of English, meets every Tuesday and Friday at 10 a.m.(in meeting room #1 on Tuesday and meeting room #2 on Friday) of the Rockville Library. No registration is required. more info

10:00 am-5:00 pm
Design Charrette for “Pink Bank” at Rockville Public Library Learn more about Rockville’s modern architecture and actively participate in the creative process of adapting older buildings for new and innovative uses in a design charrette co-sponsored by Peerless Rockville and the University of Maryland School of Architecture. During the three-day charrette, the public is invited to develop hypothetical design concepts for adaptive use of the 1964 Suburban Trust Building or “Pink Bank,” located at 255 N. Washington Street. The charrette will be held in the first floor meeting room at Rockville Library on Friday, February 6 through Sunday, February 8. On Friday, a special presentation will be given at 2 PM by Peerless Rockville historian Terry Lachin on the history of the building and local Rockville history during the 1960’s.The property owners, Kettler, Inc., have an approved development plan that calls for demolition of the building as part of Town Center II redevelopment. The Pink Bank is one of the City’s most distinctive modernist buildings and was designed by Washington architect Arthur Anderson for the Suburban Trust Company. Former tenants includ
e famed Rockville attorney Vivian V. Simpson, who served as Maryland’s first woman Secretary of State, among other important posts. Charrette sessions are free and open to the public; reservations are not required. For additional information, contact Peerless Rockville at 301-762-0096 or [email protected]. more info

10:00 am-1:00 pm
The Road Back to Work at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center If you’ve been out of the workforce for a long time and want to get back in, this workshop will help you understand the current job market and steps you can take to help you become a competitive job-seeker. We’ll also discuss different paths you can take to land a new job and enhance your career prospects. $30, payable at registration; early registration recommended. To register or for more information, visit our website or call 240-777-8300. more info

10:15 am
Storytime for 2′s and 3′s at Rockville Public Library Stories and activities for ages 2-3 with an adult. more info

6:30 pm-9:00 pm
Art After Hours at VisArts at Rockville Free event the first Friday of each month. Bring your friends and enjoy live music, food and wine as you browse the galleries and visit with our resident artists in their studios. more info

8:00 pm
Celtic Celebration with Maggie Sansone at F. Scott Fitzgerald Theater The F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre at Rockville Civic Center Park, 603 Edmonston Dr. will present a rousing evening of traditional Irish music and dance on Friday, Feb. 6 at 8 p.m. This one-night only performance features nationally known folk artist Maggie Sansone on hammered dulcimer; Rockville resident and international award winner Sue Richards on Celtic harp; Andrea Hoag on fiddle; Rob Greenway on guitar and Irish flute; Matt Bell on bodhran; Seth Kibel on sax and clarinet; and the Teelin School of Irish Dance. “We’re excited to be able to host this amazing group of musicians and dancers,” said Kathleen Moran, Rockville Civic Center supervisor. “The performance is really energetic and fun and is sure to entertain the whole family.” Tickets for the Celtic Celebration are $15 adults, $13 seniors age 60 and older and $13 students of any age with ID. To purchase tickets call the F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre Box Office at 240-314-8690 or visit in person between 2-7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Tickets are also available on-line at www.rockvillemd.gov/theatre. more info

Saturday, February 7

10:00 am-5:00 pm
Design Charrette for “Pink Bank” at Rockville Public Library Learn more about Rockville’s modern architecture and actively participate in the creative process of adapting older buildings for new and innovative uses in a design charrette co-sponsored by Peerless Rockville and the University of Maryland School of Architecture. During the three-day charrette, the public is invited to develop hypothetical design concepts for adaptive use of the 1964 Suburban Trust Building or “Pink Bank,” located at 255 N. Washington Street. The charrette will be held in the first floor meeting room at Rockville Library on Friday, February 6 through Sunday, February 8. On Saturday there will be a special community forum to gather opinions from 11:30 AM – 2 PM. The property owners, Kettler, Inc., have an approved development plan that calls for demolition of the building as part of Town Center II redevelopment. The Pink Bank is one of the City’s most distinctive modernist buildings and was designed by Washington architect Arthur Anderson for the Suburban Trust Company. Former tenants include famed Rockville attorney Vivian V. Simpson, who served as Maryland’s first woman Secretary of State, among other important posts. Charrette sessions are free and open to the public; reservations are not required. For additional information, contact Peerless Rockville at 301-762-0096 or [email protected]. more info

10:15 am
Cuddle ups for walkers at Rockville Public Library Stories, songs, and rhymes for ages 12 to 24 months, with an adult. more info

11:00 am
James and the Giant Peach at Parilla Performing Arts Center James Trotter lives with his mean aunts in a rickety old house, on top of a lonely hill near a garden where nothing grows, except for a barren peach tree. James’ life changes after a mysterious man gives him a bag of magic crystals. Strange, wonderful things happen after James accidentally drops the crystals at the roots of the peach tree. A peach grows to a colossal size on top of the old tree, soon becoming bigger than the house. Late one night, James crawls inside the peach and meets huge Old-Green-Grasshopper, a tremendous Ladybird and other huge creepy-crawlies. After the peach detaches from the tree, it rolls down the hill, across the countryside and into the ocean and the adventure of a lifetime begins. Written by beloved author Roald Dahl, this enchanting musical will captivate audiences of all ages. Recommended for ages 7 and up • Tickets are $7 Adults, $6 Seniors and Students. more info

12:00 pm-2:00 pm
PAW (Partnership for Animal Welfare) Adoption Event at Petco PAW (Partnership for Animal Welfare) will be having an adoption event (dogs only) at the Rockville Petco. (301) 984-9733. Come to the show and see our rescue dogs. If you are interested in any dog at the show, a PAW volunteer will be there to assist you. You may also call the PAW line at (301) 572-4729 for show information or visit our web site to see what dogs are available for adoption. Send an email to: [email protected] more info

1:00 pm
Chinese Calligraphy Workshop at Mansion at Strathmore This class will offer hands on instruction in the art of brushing Chinese Calligraphy on rice papers under artist Nellie Chao. There will be calligraphy demo and beginning students learn the proper way to handle brushes, make strokes, brush Chinese characters. More experienced sumi-e artists will learn how to improve their brush strokes in painting. Each student shall be provided set of original calligraphy samples to take home. TUITION $50 (plus $15 materials fee). more info

7:00 pm-9:30 pm
Duquesne Univerisity Tamburitzans at F. Scott Fitzgerald Theater The always popular Tamburizans return to Rockville with the music, song and dance of Eastern European cultures, featuring authentic costumes and instruments. This show sells out! Please note the early start time. Tickets $30 Adult, $28 Seni
ors and Children more info

9:00 pm
Live Music Saturday Night: On The Bus at The Potomac Grill Enjoy The Original Music of “The Greatfull Dead” If You were Here on The 3rd You know IT Will be Crowded… Get Here Early for a spot!!!!!!

Sunday, February 8

12:00 pm-5:00 pm
Design Charrette for “Pink Bank” at Rockville Public Library Learn more about Rockville’s modern architecture and actively participate in the creative process of adapting older buildings for new and innovative uses in a design charrette co-sponsored by Peerless Rockville and the University of Maryland School of Architecture. During the three-day charrette, the public is invited to develop hypothetical design concepts for adaptive use of the 1964 Suburban Trust Building or “Pink Bank,” located at 255 N. Washington Street. The charrette will be held in the first floor meeting room at Rockville Library on Friday, February 6 through Sunday, February 8. On Sunday, there will be student presentations of their finished work from 3 PM – 5 PM. The property owners, Kettler, Inc., have an approved development plan that calls for demolition of the building as part of Town Center II redevelopment. The Pink Bank is one of the City’s most distinctive modernist buildings and was designed by Washington architect Arthur Anderson for the Suburban Trust Company. Former tenants include famed Rockville attorney Vivian V. Simpson, who served as Maryland’s first woman Secretary of State, among other important posts. Charrette sessions are free and open to the public; reservations are not required. For additional information, contact Peerless Rockville at 301-762-0096 or [email protected]. more info

3:00 pm-4:00 pm
Rockville Concert Band presents Swingtime at F. Scott Fitzgerald Theater Rockville’s 75 member band performs a lively show for mid-winter. Free, no tickets required more info

4:00 pm-5:00 pm
Community Ministries of Rockville Benefit Concert at Christ Episcopal Church A benefit concert will be held on February 8, 2009 to raise funds for the Rockville Emergency Assistance Program (REAP). The program will be held at Christ Episcopal Church, 107 South Washington Street, at 4 PM. Local groups including the Rockville Chorus, the Rockville Singers and the Sharpe Street Methodist Gospel Choir will be performing. These groups will provide a varied program of music ranging from classical to swing to “oldies but goodies” to gospel to benefit REAP. more info

Monday, February 9

5:00 pm-8:00 pm
Eat Out To Fight Cancer at Silver Diner Lending a hand couldn’t be much easier. All you have to do is eat!. The Silver Diner is partnering with the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life of Rockville. We are having a fundraiser on Monday, February 9th from 5-8PM with 20% of sales being donated. Bring your family, friends and neighbors to help raise money in the fight against cancer. Check out the menu or call 301-770-0333 for take-out orders. Call Rhoda Cutlip at 301-942-1625 for more information.

6:30 pm
CONVERSATION CLUB at Twinbrook Library Join us for our informal conversation classes, as we practice speaking English every Monday at 6:30pm. New members are always welcome, no need to register. more info

7:15 pm
American Sign Language Practice Club at Rockville Public Library Volunteer coaches will be available to help participants practice sign language. Participants must have already taken a sign language class. Drop in, registration is not required. For more information, contact Library Services to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community at [email protected] or 240-777-0001 or TTY # 240-777-0902. more info

Tuesday, February 10

10:00 am
English Conversation Club at Rockville Public Library The English Conversation Club, for new speakers of English, meets every Tuesday and Friday at 10 a.m.(in meeting room #1 on Tuesday and meeting room #2 on Friday) of the Rockville Library. No registration is required. more info

10:00 am-12:00 pm
Interviewing Skills for a Competitive Job Market at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center In this interactive workshop, you’ll learn how to play up your strengthts at a job interview, play down your weaknesses, the questions you can expect to be asked and those you can ask the interviewer. $20, payable at registration; early registration recommended. To register or for more information, visit our website or call 240-777-8300. more info

10:30 am
Preschool Storytime at Twinbrook Library Storytime for 2-5 yr olds include stories, songs, rhymes, stretches, and a simple craft.<br> more info

5:30 pm-8:30 pm
Let’s Talk: Couples Communication at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center Couples often get into conflict when they don’t listen to each other. This workshop is designed to teach married couples and others in committed relationshops how to communicate effectively. [Couples only; limited to 10 couples.] $30 per person, payable at registration. Must be interviewed (by phone) before registering. For more information or to be interviewed, call Louise Hanson at 240-777-8300. more info

6:30 pm-8:30 pm
Proposal-Writing for Beginners at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center Associations, non-profits and small businesses seeking financial support or business opportunities must be adept at writing successful proposals to potential funders. In this workshop, you’ll learn the terminology and techniques essential to writing winning proposals. $20, payable at registration; early registration recommended. To register or for more information, visit our website or call 240-777-8300. more info

7:30 pm
A Celebration of the Piano: Raymond Jackson, piano at Music Center at Strathmore Pianist a
nd Howard University Professor Raymond Jackson has devoted his scholarship to researching and reviving music by black composers, especially music for the piano. Discover rarely performed music by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor and Frederick Eliot Lewis as well as classics by Eubie Blake, Beethoven and Chopin in this impeccably researched performance by an “eloquent” (The New York Times) pianist with a passion for the past. more info

Wednesday, February 11

6:00 pm
Crochet Club at Twinbrook Library Join us every Wednesday as we meet to learn and/or practice our crocheting skills. more info

7:00 pm-8:45 pm
Building Strong Relationships at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center In this workshop, led by an experience family mediator, we’ll discuss key differences in the emotional lives and behavior of women and men, and how greater understanding can bring us closer to the loved ones in our lives. $20, payable at registration; early registration recommended. To register or for more information, visit our website or call 240-777-8300. more info

7:00 pm
State of the City Discussion at Rockville Public Library Please join Mayor Susan Hoffmann, Councilmember Phyllis Marcuccio and Councilmember John Britton for an open discussion on the “State of the City” – brief presentations on the activities of the Mayor and Council in the past year and issues that our community may address in the upcoming year. Following the presentations, the floor will be open for questions and public discussion. In the spirit of “Buy Rockville” and to enable attendees to shop and dine prior to or after the public discussion, the “State of the City” discussion will be held in the first floor meeting room of the Rockville Town Center Library on Wednesday, February 11th at 7 p.m. All are welcome.

Thursday, February 12

10:00 am
Conversation Club at Twinbrook Library Join us for a weekly session of informal English conversation practice. New members are welcome, no need to register. more info

10:15 am
Preschool Storytime at Rockville Public Library Stories, music, and action activities for ages 3 1/2 to 6. more info

12:00 pm
Free SCORE Business Plan Development Session at Rockville Public Library Write your business plan with the assistance of SCORE counselors and research librarians. Entrepreneurs may come back each week until their plans are completed. Each participant must bring a USB or flash drive to download and store their business plan between sessions. To register, phone 240-777-0001. more info

1:30 pm
Preschool Storytime at Rockville Public Library Stories, music, and action activities for ages 3 1/2 to 6. more info

6:00 pm
Spanish Conversation Club at Rockville Public Library Practice and improve your Spanish through conversation. Every Thursday, 6:00-7:30. more info

7:00 pm-8:30 pm
Social Bullies: Dealing with Cliques and Exclusion at Rockville Senior Center Every day thousands of teens wake up afraid to go to school. Bullying is a problem that affects millions of students of all races and classes. Bullying has everyone worried, not just the kids on its receiving end. Yet because parents, teachers, and other adults don’t always see it, they may not understand how extreme bullying can get. People used to think of bullies as the big kid on the playground taking your lunch money. Today, girls and boys are using less direct techniques to bully such as forming cliques, exclusion, rumors, and teasing. These bullies are less likely to identify their behavior as bullying. Come and explore these behaviors and discuss strategies for helping bullies, victims and bystanders. Children and teens welcome to attend with a parent or guardian. Call: (240)-314-8620 to register or go to www.rockvillemd.gov and click on enroll. Course #26791. For additional information contact Cynthia Bangali, Program Coordinator at (240)-314-8317.

8:00 pm
Town Hall Meeting with Councilmember Piotr Gajewski at Rockville City Hall Councilmember Piotr Gajewski will lead a townhall meeting on Thursday, Feb. 12, at 8 p.m. at Rockville’s City Hall. The agenda for the meeting will include a discussion of topics, such as the budget and taxes, appointment of the new in-house city attorney, Bealls Grant II, RedGate Golf Course and the Twinbrook Plan. “Given the difficult fiscal climate, I especially look forward to hearing from citizens with ideas on what the City’s budgeting priorities should be as the Mayor and Council begin work on the FY10 budget,” Gajewski said. The meeting will be held in the Black-Eyed Susan room at City Hall, located at 111 Maryland Ave. For more information, contact the City Clerk’s Office at 240-314-8280.

Friday, February 13

10:00 am
English Conversation Club at Rockville Public Library The English Conversation Club, for new speakers of English, meets every Tuesday and Friday at 10 a.m.(in meeting room #1 on Tuesday and meeting room #2 on Friday) of the Rockville Library. No registration is required. more info

10:00 am-12:00 pm
Dealing with Workplace Stress at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center Whether you’re grappling with new policies, programs and procedures or trying to do more with less, this workshop can help. You’ll learn how to channel workplace stress and frustration into cooperative, creative action, greater productivity and team-building. $20, payable at registration; early registration recommended. To register or for more information, visit our website or call 240-777-8300. more info

10:00 am-12:00 pm
Divorce Legal Seminar, Part I (non-child-related issues) at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center Attorney-led overview of grounds for divorce, spousal support, property distribution, settlement agreements, choosin
g an attorney, and methods of dispute-resolution other than litigation. Offered monthly. [Child-related divorce issues covered in Divorce Legal Seminar, Part II, on Feb. 27.] $20, payable at registration; early registration recommended. To register or for more information, visit our website or call 240-777-8300. more info

10:15 am
Cuddle ups for pre-walkers at Rockville Public Library Stories, songs, and rhymes for ages 0-12 months, with an adult. more info

8:00 pm-10:30 pm
The Finest! Broadway Bound: African-Americans on Broadway at F. Scott Fitzgerald Theater The Finest! presents the 14th Annual African-American Heritage Production.
Broadway Bound: African-Americans on Broadway.
Enjoy a sampling of the arts and techniques African-Americans have contributed both on and off stage. Tickets $15 Adult, $10 Senior and Children more info

Saturday, February 14

10:15 am
Storytime for 2′s and 3′s at Rockville Public Library Stories and activities for ages 2-3 with an adult. more info

11:00 am
Family Storytime at Twinbrook Library Join us for a storytime designed for families with young children. All ages welcome. more info

2:00 pm-4:30 pm
The Finest! Broadway Bound: African-Americans on Broadway at F. Scott Fitzgerald Theater The Finest! presents the 14th Annual African-American Heritage Production.
Broadway Bound: African-Americans on Broadway.
Enjoy a sampling of the arts and techniques African-Americans have contributed both on and off stage. Tickets $15 Adult, $10 Senior and Children more info

9:00 pm
Live Music Saturday Night: Skyla Burrell Blues Band at The Potomac Grill “With a female vocalist whose voice jumps out and grabs you by the blues, The Skyla Burrell blues band is the real deal in a solid package that stays true to the real meaning of their genre.”
- St. Croix Music Magazine

Monday, February 16

6:30 pm
CONVERSATION CLUB at Twinbrook Library Join us for our informal conversation classes, as we practice speaking English every Monday at 6:30pm. New members are always welcome, no need to register. more info

Tuesday, February 17

10:00 am
English Conversation Club at Rockville Public Library The English Conversation Club, for new speakers of English, meets every Tuesday and Friday at 10 a.m.(in meeting room #1 on Tuesday and meeting room #2 on Friday) of the Rockville Library. No registration is required. more info

10:30 am
Preschool Storytime at Twinbrook Library Storytime for 2-5 yr olds include stories, songs, rhymes, stretches, and a simple craft.<br> more info

6:00 pm-9:00 pm
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center This trusted and widely-used personality assessment will identify your personality type. With that knowledge, it can help you improve your work and personal relationships by understanding how different personality types relate to each other. Offered monthly. $50, payable at registration; early registration recommended. To register or for more information, visit our website or call 240-777-8300. more info

6:30 pm-8:30 pm
Caring Communication for Couples at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center Each person in a relationship has different ways of expressing affection and love. In this workshop, you’ll learn to recognize what you and your mate each need to feel loved, respected and secure. You’ll also gain valuable insight into understanding each other’s ways of communicating. Couples only; limited to 10 couples. Must be interviewed (by phone) before registering. Call Louise Hanson at 240-777-8300. more info

7:30 pm
Twinbrook Book Club at Twinbrook Library Join us every third Tuesday as we discuss the choice of the month.<br>Everyone is welcome, no need to register. more info

Wednesday, February 18

6:00 pm
Crochet Club at Twinbrook Library Join us every Wednesday as we meet to learn and/or practice our crocheting skills. more info

6:30 pm-8:30 pm
Divorce, Money and You at Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center Come to this workshop to learn about the potential financial consequences of divorce and how both partners can get equitable financial settlements at divorce. $20, payable at registration; early registration recommended. To register or for more information, visit our website or call 240-777-8300. more info

If you attend an event, we invite you to write a Contributor Review. Just send it in and we will consider it. Rules: Event is in Rockville; fairly recent; article is your work; you are not offering it for publication elsewhere. Try to keep it under 500 words; we will edit for length. Include a photo if you have one!

Contributor Opinion by John Britton: State Of The City And The Open Meetings Act

>The following Contributor Opinion is by City Councilmember John Britton:

A few points on the planned February 11, 2009 gathering and the Open Meetings Act:

1. As you may know, Mayor Hoffmann, Councilmember Marcuccio and I are proposing an open and public gathering on Wednesday, February 11th for a discussion of issues. This is not an official mayor and council meeting as there will be no business conducted nor will there be votes taken on any matter. Rather it is an open, public gathering to hear three perspectives (varying and probably divergent depending on the issue!) on the accomplishments (or lack thereof?!) of this mayor and council of the past year and of issues that the community members think the mayor and council may address in the next year. Although we may have brief introductory comments, the bulk of the time will be devoted to questions from the community members and, hopefully, thoughtful, relevant and insightful answers from us.

2. I stress that this is not an official meeting of the mayor and council. However, since at least a quorum of the mayor and council may be present, special rules and safeguards apply to the gathering as set out in the Maryland Open Meetings Act. These rules and safeguards implement public policy of the State and ensure public access to any gathering of a quorum. The Open Meetings Act requires that the public be provided with adequate notice of the time and location of the public gathering, that the location be reasonably accessible to individuals who would like to attend, and that minutes be prepared as soon as practicable after the public gathering.

3. Rather than make up rules as we went along, as has been alleged, we were constrained by a rigid set of existing rules under the Open Meetings Act. Prior to initiating the process for this public gathering, a thorough review of the Open Meetings statute (State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 5) and the Open Meeting Acts Manual (Sixth Edition, October 2006) was warranted. This review established the framework for the public gathering. I also confirmed the requirements of the law and compliance thereto with the City Attorney. Our recognition of and adherence to the rules set out in the Open Meetings Act resulted in the following to ensure compliance with the law:

(a) Notice of the time, date, place, participants and agenda was sent to the Gazette for publication this week and placed on the RockvilleCentral and RockvilleLiving blogs. The City also distributed a press release with the same information. This notice also was copied to the City Attorney.

Contributor Opinion By Joseph Jordan: State Of The City

>The following Contributor Opinion is by Joseph Jordan:

The proposed State of the City meeting scheduled for February 11th tells me this City Council makes up the rules as they go along. From what I understand, two Council members and the Mayor decide to have a meeting, but don’t invite the other two Council members. They now have a quorum and intend to discuss city business, policy, ordinances, etc. Isn’t this considered an official Council meeting? I believe it is, and there are rules governing such meetings. I’d like to see the City Attorney weigh in on this.

I pushed back on this Council when they wanted to have work sessions off-camera, when they voted to eliminate responses at Citizen Forum, when they wanted to have quarterly “retreats” that would be closed, off-site meetings. Now they want to have something as important as a report on the State of the City, and have it in a library conference room…with only three Council members….with no cameras or recording devices so that residents that can’t make the meeting can at least see a playback? Give me a break…something is wrong here. If elected officials want to meet their constituents, then do what Mr. Gajewski does…have your own Town Hall meeting. If you want to present and discuss the State of the City, then do it in City Hall, with all council members and the City Manager present, with the cameras and recording devices rolling.

Joseph Jordan

Contributor Opinion By John Britton: Another Inaugural Observation

>The following contributor opinion is by Rockville City Council member John Britton:

It was not difficult to make the decision whether to stay at home and enjoy the inaugural events from the comfort and warmth of our living room or go to what promised to be a too-crowded, too frigid Mall to view the Inaugural events. A no-brainer; It was go from the beginning for all of us – Katherine, Eric , Anna and myself – to hear the Inaugural address directly, to see the people, to breathe the same air as President Obama and the other dignitaries, to insert ourselves into a moment of history. We did not have tickets to anything, so we were full into the common man thing which kept our expectations at a manageable level. To our great surprise, these expectations were exceeded.

We decided to head into downtown on Monday evening to spend the night in my office located within the security zone. Think camping without s’mores and mosquitoes; hotel without the beds! Apart from being in a room with a hyperactive motion detection light system, the accommodations were, well, accommodating. Being there gave us the strategic advantage of leaving the office in the morning by foot, destination anywhere on the Mall (with a quick stop in Starbucks for breakfast). We quickly learned of the mass of humanity travails at the east end of the Mall and worked our way from 7th Street, NW to 18th Street, NW before finding our access to the Mall. If nothing else, the trek across downtown DC – devoid of automobiles save for the occasional emergency vehicle — was worth the moment. Along the way were ad hoc vendors selling everything imaginable, restaurants with their offerings and urns of coffee set out on tables in the street and spontaneous celebrations at nearly every turn – as one pundit put it, “a block party of historic proportions”. By the time we encountered the snaking conga line led by someone dressed in a polar bear outfit singing tunes to Obama, we were no longer surprised by what downtown could offer that day.

After a minor stand-off with the National Guard who were woefully outnumbered by the masses (power to the people!), we worked our way onto the Mall and stood in the shadow of the Washington Monument. We arrived in plenty of time for the swearing-in ceremony, with a view of a jumbotron and clear, crisp audio projecting from the Capitol Building platform. There was an ever so slight but detectable disconnect between the movement of lips on the screen and the words that we heard – akin to watching one of those old B-rated, 1960’s era Japanese horror films. But certainly no distraction from the solemnity of the moment. After its obligatory booing and hissing in the beginning each time President Bush or Vice President Cheney appeared on the screen, the crowd fell into an incredible hush. To the dilemma of how to silence nearly 2 million people, evidently you need only a Barack Obama on the stage in front of them. And what a crowd – the mood and diversity made the scene the mother of all Pepsi commercials.

At the risk of being hyperbolic – actually there is no such risk in this situation – the experience was exhilarating, majestic, stunning, breathtaking [insert superlative here]. Put simply, it was awesome. Even through the slightly harrowing situation of 1.8 million people implementing the same exit strategy at the same time (when even the words “yes we can” presumed herculean efforts!), the day’s experience could not be diminished. We now proudly carry the right to say for all time, “We were there!”

John Britton

Rockville Central runs occasional, edited opinion pieces by contributors as well as other guest columns. Their views are not necessarily those of Rockville Central. We encourage you to join the growing list of contributors! To submit your piece for consideration, contact us.

Contributor Opinion By Carl Henn: Car Free Contract For Beall's Grant II The Way To Go

>The following Contributor Opinion is by Carl Henn:

The recent decision by the City Council not to support the Beall’s Grant II project isn’t the end of the story. Regardless of how it turns out there will be consequences. Montgomery Housing Partnership may cut the size of the project significantly to meet neighborhood concerns. While this would reduce the impact of the project on the neighborhood, it would also decrease the number of people that it can serve while nearly everyone concedes that we have a tremendous need for affordable housing. Or perhaps MHP and the neighborhood won’t be able to find a workable compromise. This could result in an even worse outcome. If MHP finds that they can build more affordable housing for the same money elsewhere, they may sell the lot and the Rockville site will be built for the standard commercial market. The neighborhood impacts may be nearly the same as the current proposal, but without creating significant additional affordable housing. A commercial development wouldn’t require council approval, so would be less constrained by neighborhood interests.

Both sides have reason to compromise. What they need is better ideas on how to compromise. I believe that Car-Free by Contract housing, supported by investment in transportation alternatives such as car sharing, bicycles, grocery delivery, and transit can make this alternative work. Instead of building a 212 car parking garage and a 17 space surface lot, they could build a 200 bicycle parking garage and a 17 space surface lot with 10 shared cars provided and a free bike with each apartment.

The concept of Car-Free by Contract is that the project is given permission to build far less parking than is usually required in exchange for implementing a plan to ensure that the parking isn’t needed. Residents sign a contract agreeing not to own or use a car while living there. The contract establishes that they will be evicted if they are found to be keeping a car, with loss of security deposit.

Car free living isn’t for everyone and doesn’t work everywhere. But this is a circumstance and place where it can work. Beall’s Grant II will be primarily affordable housing. So many people are waiting for affordable housing that finding 100 households willing and able to get by without a car is very workable. Moreover, Beall’s Grant is within walking distance of Metro, several bus routes and plenty of stores.

The advantages for the neighborhood and city include far less traffic and a smaller building footprint. It is also likely that by selecting people who are able to live without cars that the number of additional students brought into Beall Elementary will be reduced. The arrangement is inherently more environmentally sustainable – car free living uses less energy. But it also opens up new opportunities. The smaller footprint can allow space for a community garden. The money saved by not building parking can instead pay for more advanced environmental features.

Let’s consider the math: Structured parking costs around $20,000 per space. Eliminating the 212 space garage saves $4,240,000. Providing a basic but fully outfitted bike (lights, fenders, panniers, helmet, lock) should cost around $500 each. One hundred would total $50,000. You can fit 12 bikes in the space of one car parking space. If it cost the same as structured car parking, we could provide 200 bike parking spaces for $333,333.

Providing a car sharing service is central to making this concept work. By providing a fleet of cars to share, people can have the use of a car for occasional use, but can share the expense with their neighbors. A fleet of ten cars for 100 households would provide a car when needed at only a tenth of the cost of maintaining a car for each household. Even if brand new cars were purchased for cash up front, this would cost far less then the money saved by not building a 212 car garage. Ten cars at $20,000 each is $200,000. My newest car cost me $5,000 – we don’t need to buy all new for this concept to work. Car sharing is already working in our area through Zipcar, or a non profit co-op can be created to manage it, ranging from a large successful venture in Vancouver to a small community startup.

This still leaves plenty of money left over to provide solar water heating for the complex. A laundromat/car wash in Massachusetts built in solar water heating for $55,000. A similar approach would keep the energy costs lower for this apartment throughout its life.

The cost of the car sharing, bicycles, bike parking and solar water heating comes up to $3.6 million less than the cost of the car parking that they forgo.

In Vienna, a Car-Free by Contract apartment building arrangement allowed an apartment complex of 244 units to provide only 20 parking spaces.

Making this work at the Beall’s Grant II site would solve a vexing problem. Beyond that it points the way to a more sustainable future. While this approach has worked elsewhere, this isn’t an off the shelf, cookie cutter model. This process, even after the fundamental agreement is reached, will take a lot of thought. Is it better for car sharing to happen through Zipcar, an MHP program or some other approach? How can bike lessons be provided to residents, and how will that be arranged? Can free deliveries from PeaPod or their competitors be arranged if a given number of residents agree to a particular delivery schedule? What exact language should be used in the Car-Free contract?

Pulling this together is an exciting and worthy challenge. The active engagement of the neighborhood, MHP and the City will be needed. The seven month delay necessitated by the Council’s decision not to move forward at this time provides the time needed to completely revise the proposed development. Car-free by Contract housing is the tool that can break our current deadlock and create a positive outcome for everyone involved.

Rockville Central runs occasional, edited opinion pieces by contributors as well as other guest columns. Their views are not necessarily those of Rockville Central. We encourage you to join the growing list of contributors! To submit your piece for consideration, contact us.

Contributor Opinion By Susan Hoffmann: MHP Worked With Community

>The following Contributor Opinion is by Rockville mayor Susan R. Hoffmann. It is a reprint, by permission of the author, of her email response to this message sent to the Mayor and Council.

With all due respect, I believe that [Larry Giammo is] omitting one very important fact: [Montgomery Housing Partnership] has been working with the community, represented by the West End Citizens Association, since 2006. It is only very recently that the opposition started paying attention and that we began to hear from them. That does not diminish their right to be concerned, but it is simply not factual to claim that the steps . . . laid out weren’t followed. The steps were followed and WECA offered no objection. In point of fact, WECA welcomed and endorsed the project, writing a letter in support. I hope that everyone will continue to discuss Bealls Grant II in good faith and that we can find a good outcome for all involved.

Susan R. Hoffmann
Mayor, City of Rockville

Rockville Central runs occasional, edited opinion pieces by contributors as well as other guest columns. Their views are not necessarily those of Rockville Central. We encourage you to join the growing list of contributors! To submit your piece for consideration, contact us.