No Ice Rink In Town Center

Fabricated ice rink from 2008 photo by Cindy Cotte Griffiths

Don’t plan on skating in Rockville Town Center any time soon. After much delay Federal Realty Investment Trust has indicated an ice skating rink will not be installed this winter.

At last night’s Mayor and Council meeting, Assistant City Manager Jenny Kimball gave everyone the bad news. The engineering for the installation has turned out to be much more complex than anticipated. Tri-State Ice Management, the company which applied to build the rink, will continue to work on it for next year.

Installing an ice rink requires digging up the pavers to install pipes. Of course, there was always the big question of where to store the Zamboni too.

So if you want to ice skate on real ice around Rockville, you will have to do it indoors at the Rockville Ice Arena, or the County rinks at Cabin John or Wheaton. I’ve skated at all three and always enjoy it.

Roller Derby Jams In Rockville [Updated]

The Jammer has a star on her helmet. Photo by Cindy Cotte Griffiths.

If you’ve seen the 2009 movie Whip It (the directorial debut of Drew Barrymore staring the ever intriguing Ellen Page), you know all about roller derby bouts. What you might not know is that Rockville has its own roller girls.

In November 2009 Keightasorass Rex formed Free State Roller Derby (FSRD) using her father’s Fast Pitch location in Rockville as a practice facility. Since then she’s left to work with the Park Service, but the team jams on. Update: she will be returning to scrimmage in December.

In case you’re wondering about this founder, derby skaters have alter-ego names and FSRD is no exception with Brusie Q, CINder BLOCK, Crum N’ Punishment, Evil Stitch, Melony Conviction, Psyche Drama, Scarlet Cleaver, Ta Ra Boom D A, Tawna Brixx, Tiffany Twisted, and Unablonder, Only a killer sport requires such epic handles.

Jammers start at the back. Photo by Cindy Cotte Griffiths.

Free State Roller Derby practices every Wednesday and Sunday on quad skates with sturdy knee pads. During a roller derby bout, a team tries to make it difficult for one skater from the other team (“the jammer”) to advance through the pack of skaters (“the blockers”) led by a “pivot” who sets the speed. The jammers from both teams score points for passing members of the opposing team. Since teams skate in a pack while the two jammers dodge and glide through the crowd at the same time, the sport involves extensive strategy by the inside, outside, and power blockers.

Jammers moving through the blockers. Photo by Cindy Cotte Griffiths.

A definite camaraderie has grown among the skaters who range from 20 to 50 years old. This spread in years proves age and experience don’t matter when you’re having fun. B-Knock-Ya is about to become a grandmother. Most haven’t skated since they were young girls. Some never skated in their lives before lacing on a pair to join Free State.

Mothra Stewart found the time to join and is glad she did:

I spent a long time thinking about doing derby and not doing anything about it. A friend of mine joined a drumming group called Batala which requires a lot of practice time and physical effort. I thought, “Well, if she can find the time for that then I can find time for derby.” Derby is amazingly fun and unlike anything else I’ve ever done. I feel like an athlete and part of a community. I only wish I had started playing earlier.

Co-Captain Slaughter Lily is also new to the sport without any experience skating:

I actually got started after watching Whip It five times and finally saying to myself that I have got to do that, no matter what it takes. I had no skating experience of any kind when I started, unless you count one miserable night in college of wobbling around an ice rink. I literally was unable to skate — I had to be held up to stay vertical for my first month of practices. It’s really hard to start from zero as an adult, and not a particularly athletic one, either. I’m still one of our weakest skaters, but I have made so much progress in the year I’ve been doing this and I’m pretty proud of myself. It’s the hardest I’ve ever worked in my life.

I think I was elected as a co-captain because, though I am not a good skater yet(!), I have a single-minded obsession with derby. I really appreciate that people saw me as a person who’d commit the time and effort to keep the team thriving, and I hope that I’ve been living up to those expectations. And I could never have come this far without my teammates, who are all incredibly supportive and just great people. I feel really, really lucky to be a part of this team.

Jammer sizes up the situation. Photo by Cindy Cotte Griffiths.

Although Co-Captain Trips Ahoy was never on a roller derby team either before joining FSRD, she leads practice with the help of solid online resources and a committed roller derby community which is extremely supportive and encouraging to newcomers. Guest coaches, especially advanced skaters who have retired, stop by to teach others about the sport they love. Former FSRD member, Crowella De Vil, a very talented jammer who was chosen to join the Baltimore Charm City Roller Girls, also brings it back to coach her friends.

Besides Charm City, our area is home to several DC teams including the DC Rollergirls whose motto is “With Liberty And Justice To Brawl”. These teams compete as part of the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (Real. Strong. Athletic. Revolutionary.)

Although the roller derby scene has been described as “aggression on wheels”, FSRD concentrates on communication and strategy by leaning and blocking, although they do sometimes practice hip checking. After each scrimmage the group discusses what worked and what didn’t.

How'd we do? Photo by Cindy Cotte Griffiths

When asked about the aggressive reputation of roller derby, Slaughter Lily provided an overview of the current roller derby world:

Although we are just a small start-up league and not a member of the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA), we do play by their rules, as do most flat track leagues. Using elbows and hands is strictly prohibited — if you elbow someone, even accidentally, you will get called for a minor penalty; if you do it hard enough to affect their game play, that’s a major and you’re in the box for a minute. Tripping, kicking, and any blocking to or using the head are also not allowed. Punching will get you tossed from the game, no questions. There are several pages of rules detailing how to hit legally. The idea with the 2000s revival of roller derby is to combine a full-contact, fairly aggressive spectacle with real athleticism and camaraderie. I’ve heard that there are some teams in the West (where the sport was reborn) that still play derby the way it used to be on TV in the 1980s — brawling on the track and all — but that is definitely not what the vast majority of leagues are doing. As for Free State, we’re still learning a lot about how to play this sport, including the contact aspect of it and how to, say, control where our elbows go, but we are definitely interested in playing fair, playing safe, and playing hard.

The action comes from behind so communication is key. Photo by Cindy Cotte Griffiths.

For those who want to try recreational roller derby, Free State welcomes new skaters. Don’t worry, the first lessons include two extremely important skills (1.) how to stop and (2.) how to fall down. After the basics are out of the way, the fun is learning about this all-female, up-and-coming sport. Plus, they’ve found the training to be great exercise.

If you want to try the roller derby scene, e-mail Free State for the details: [email protected] or check out their Facebook page. All you need is a desire to learn and a pair of skates. Dues are minimal and not necessary until you’re really sure you want to commit and have bought your first pair of rad skates.

Last Chance For Youth To Audition For Tubman Production

Mark you calendars, The Finest! Youth Performance Troupe! will perform A Change Con’ Come depicting the life, love, pain, and triumph of Harriet Tubman on February 18 and 19, 2011.

If you know someone age 10 or older who loves to dance and act, an encore audition for this original production will be held on Tuesday, November 16, 2010 at 6:30 PM in the Elwood Smith Community Center.

The audition requirements are simple and the best part is there is no fee. A monologue or poem (1 -2 minutes) should be prepared. Those auditioning should come comfortably dressed and ready to dance. This is a perfect opportunity to practice auditioning and gain experience performing.

Call-backs will be on Wednesday, November 17 then cast notifications on Thursday, November 18. The first script read-through will be this Friday, November 19 at 6:30 PM. For more information, call Karen Rawlins at 240-314-8633. If selected, a modest production fee will be required.

The Finest! is a multicultural youth performance troupe offered through the City of Rockville Department of Recreation and Parks.

Rockville Car Show Overflows With Enthusiasts

The big crowd.

Saturday was a beautiful day to take a stroll down motor memory lane at Rockville’s annual Antique and Classic Car Show. Over 600 entries crowded every corner of the field at Rockville Civic Center Park.

Let’s face it, they just don’t make ‘em like they used to. Small children marveled at the colors and shapes, while those of us with a few years under our belts remembered vehicles from our pasts. Most of all, people enjoyed talking with the owners.

Terry Benson showing his Super Clipper.

Terry Benson has been coming down from Hagerstown for eight years now with different cars. He was one of several from Hagerstown who lined up for a day of socializing. His 1956 Packard Super Clipper has shiny upholstery and was in perfect condition inside and out. When you talk to these car owners you get the car’s history along with a lesson in economics. These Packards were like Cadillacs then the company was bought by Studebaker and went bankrupt. Expansion can be a disaster.

Robert Phillips in the People's Choice Award winning Ferrari racer!

When you see a classic car in a museum, it’s more of an object. But when they are still on the road, each is a marvel to behold. Robert Phillips of Arlington, the recipient of the People’s Choice Award at the show, epitomized the concept. He still races his 1955 blue SF Ferrari Mondial Series II 500. He raced it back in the 60’s and two weeks ago he raced it in New Jersey. He’s also driven it from San Francisco to New York City on the highways. Although it doesn’t have a heater, he’s also driven it in a blizzard. You could tell he’s a daring man!

Even though he loses his voice from speaking too much, he explained why he enjoys coming to the Car Show:

The best part is I get to talk to people and tell them about these race cars. I’m glad that other people like my little blue car!”

Motorcycles!

This year the car show featured Italian vehicles and the display included motorcycles, some old and some new, but they all looked fast.

Julius West Middle School Assistant Principal, Dudley Davidson's '71 Honda AZ 600. People commented it was the original smart car.

The first Rockville Car Show was held in 1962, as George Hamlin from Mid-Atlantic Packards, details in this year’s program:

The original inspiration for Rockville to have its own car show came from Barney Welsh, lawyer, raconteur, Rockvillian, newspaper columnist, auto hobbyist and all-around bon vivant. Barney loved Montgomery County. He generally referred to it in print at Mungummery and sang its praises regularly through his column in the local paper, a piece featuring Monty Gopher and a cast of colorful characters (many of whom were suspected of being thinly disguised members of the Welsh family).

Being a car collector of some renown, he woke up one morning and thought, “Why don’t we have a big car show right here? We could use that grassy area known as the Civic Center and get the City of Rockville to support it through its Recreation and Parks budget.”

It didn’t take long to interest several local clubs in assuming sponsorship, in which they served on the planning committee, provided a significant amount of the manpower, publicized the event to their membership and rallied people to turn out.

Attendance rallied this year too. Although the crowd wasn’t officially counted, it appeared to be record breaking. Traffic was congested on Baltimore Road during the afternoon peak.

Baltimore Road

Rockville certainly appreciates the efforts of all these fine car owners who travel and give us the opportunity to dream about driving their rare wheels.

Carl Henn Honored Twice By The City

Carl Henn was honored for his lifelong, dedicated public service at last night’s Mayor and Council Town Hall Meeting. Mayor Phyllis Marcuccio described him as the embodiment of “Think Globally. Act Locally.” He loved Rockville and blazed a trail we all strive to follow.

As we know, Carl died in July following a lightning strike. He was our leading environmental advocate and had served on the City’s Bicycle Advisory Committee and led the Environment Commission in addition to running for Rockville City Council.

Wanting to properly honor all of Carl’s volunteer work, the City officially renamed our 10-mile bicycle beltway, the Carl Henn Rockville Millennium Trail. One of the new signs was presented to his family. A plaque recognizing his work will be posted on the Trail. Future signage and maps will reflect the new name of the Trail.

When Carl testified at April’s Budget Work Session in support of adding directional signage around the Millennium Trail, he was excited about the project. Many people did not realize you could ride all the way around the City to reach landmarks. He thought if people knew how easy it would be to bike on the Trail and reach their destination, they would be more likely to choose their bike as a means of transportation. He described the nation’s energy and transportation problems as causing our economic problems due to the draining cost of peak oil. When he researched bicycle beltways, he found that Rockville was the only jurisdiction to complete such a beltway. He felt it rivaled the Capital Cresent Trail but people didn’t know about it. Also, sections were not properly marked to guide riders. He spent many hours working on the signage placement for the Trail to save consultant fees.

When Carl’s wife, Carol Henn, spoke, most in attendance unsuccessfully attempted to hold back tears. She explained that it wasn’t in Carl to let others do things. He would get up and do it himself. When they had their two daughters and he would wade through streams and walk through the woods, he wanted to ensure that his daughters would also be able to do these things. He dedicated himself to finding ways to get around without burning fossil fuels.

The Mayor and Council also renamed the City’s environmental award as the Carl Henn Outstanding Individual Environmental Achievement Award then made Carl the first recipient posthumously. Environment Commission members Kris Dighe and Beri Kravitz helped present the award to Carol and Allison Henn while explaining that Carl was “more dedicated than anybody to the environment.” The Award will continue to recognize “those whose efforts have improved the health or quality of Rockville’s environment or have increased public understanding or participation in environmental issues.”

During the Meeting, everyone asked “Who will fill Carl’s shoes?” in reference to the question made by Carl’s friend, Art Stigile, earlier this summer. All of us must do our part.

Carl was our most frequent and popular Contributor at Rockville Central. My small bit today is to guide you to Carl’s writing. Maybe someday we’ll have discounted solar options for our homes. Hopefully the Redgate property will never be developed.

Personally, I have looked at new cars. When I think of Carl, I can’t buy one. I’ll wait for better, affordable green technology and we’ll continue to use our bicycles more around town. I don’t think Carl would want us to put up these signs and think we are done. Rather he’d want us to evaluate our lives, make better choices for the environment, and work to change policies for the better.

What will you do to fill his shoes?

Run Or Walk The ICC [Updated]

Dan Reed over at Just Up The Pike mentioned this fun opportunity to walk or run on the newly-paved Intercounty Connector ICC/MD 200 before it’s opened to traffic. Although it’s not exactly in Rockville, it’s close.

The ICC 5K event costs $25 per person but it goes to a good cause, Special Olympics Maryland.

ICC 5K Run/Walk
Benefits Special Olympics Maryland
On Saturday, October 17, 2010 (the 17th is a Sunday)
Registration at 8 AM, Run begins at 9 AM. (goes up to $30 on race day for procrastinators)
Families are invited to give it a try.

This truly will be a rare opportunity to see the first segment of the ICC by foot because once the toll road opens, you won’t be walking on it. The race is along an out-and-back course that will begin at Shady Grove. Awards will be presented in a variety of categories. The first 500 registrants will receive a commemorative event t-shirt. If you want to help even more, you can get pledges and make additional donations.

This is very tempting. Although Dan is off in Philly at graduate school, we’re glad he’s continuing to post updates on JUTP as much as he can.

New Hispanic Heritage Celebration Is Just The Beginning

Hjarman Cordero excitedly told me “The Hispanic Heritage Celebration is going to be spectacular!” As the Senior Neighborhood Resources Coordinator for the City, he would know. Rockville is the perfect place to discover Latino culture.

During the Memorial Day Parade, the crowd always enjoys the Latin dancers and now several dance troops will fill Rockville Town Square with their energy this Saturday, September 18, 2010. Look for Caporales Universitarios San Simon, Café Caribe, Caminito Amigo, Fraternidad, Diablada Boliviana, Arte Flamenco, and Ballet Ritmos del Peru from 4 PM to 7 PM. Café Y Caribe and The Calpro Group will perform the music for this free community celebration.

The event is co-sponsored by the newly-formed Rockville Latino Alliance. Mr. Cordero explained about the group’s formation.

About six months ago I decided that it was the right time for our division to implement a strategic outreach to minorities. For a while I have been in contact with one of our Rockville University graduates who was from Uruguay. She was very interested in doing something for the Hispanic community in Rockville, so we got together with another Rockville University graduate to work out a plan of action for the creation of the Rockville Latino Alliance. This is the first event the group is helping to organize. The event is for the whole family and it will be filled with lots of beautiful and colorful costumes, incredible music, and the benefit of learning more about Countries from Central and South America……More than just an event this is gateway to culture and to the magic of exotic lands right here at our door step.

The Rockville Latino Alliance will meet regularly to connect the City with the Latino community and the Latino community with the City. Many groups are already working with the community and understand the issues. The Alliance will help everyone share resources. They are reaching out to establish strong relationships to help the Latino community be successful and become better citizens.

In addition to the music and dance, booths will provide information about services available for families from the City of Rockville, Priority Partners, Kaseman Clinic, Kaiser Permanente, Casa de Maryland, Community Ministries of Rockville, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Montgomery County, Montgomery County Federation of Families, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Montgomery County, and Revista Buena Gente.

The event is co-sponsored by Capital One Bank. This week all the Chevy Chase Banks officially changed their signage over to Capital One. The Bank has publically announced its interest in continuing the financial support of these types of Latino initiatives.

Hispanice Heritage week was authorized by Congress in 1968 and President Lyndon B. Johnson proclaimed the first one. In 1988 by Congress changed it to a month-long celebration (Sept. 15 – Oct. 15) which started in 1989. During this month, America celebrates the cultures of Spain, Mexico and the Spanish-speaking nations of Central America, South America and the Caribbean.

Other Hispanic Heritage Events Planned for the Rockville area include:

September 16, Hispanic Heritage Month Kick-off Panel Discussion on Latinos in Montgomery County: Understanding our Past, Present and Future; Executive Office Building Auditorium, 101 Monroe St., Rockville, 4 PM to 6 PM. County Executive Isiah Leggett and County officials will present a proclamation commemorating Hispanic Heritage Month in Montgomery County and honoring Montgomery County’s Latino Parents and Students in Action (Padres y Alumnos Latinos en Acción- Grupo PALA). A panel titled Latinos in Montgomery County: Past, Present, and Future will feature Dr. Jorge Hernandez-Fujigaki with Montgomery College; Dr. Mark Hugo Lopez with the Pew Hispanic Center; and Kate Garvey, co-chair of the Latino Youth Collaborative and Chief of Children, Youth, and Families, Department of Health and Human Services. Delegate Ana Sol Gutierrez will make closing remarks. The event will conclude with a musical performance by Tambores de San Juan, a Venezuelan drum ensemble. The free event is co-hosted by the County Executive’s Office of Community Partnerships and the Montgomery County Government Hispanic Employees Association and is open to the public.

September 23, Bilingual Lecture and Book Discussion of “Malinche” (written by Laura Esquivel) Rockville Memorial Library, 21 Maryland Ave., 6:30 PM. A bilingual lecture and discussion of the book, a retelling of the legendary love affair between the conquistador Hernan Cortes and his interpreter, Malinalli. Hosted by Montgomery County Public Libraries, in partnership with the Montgomery County Office of Community Partnerships and Montgomery College, the program is part of a month-long celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month at the library. Registration is not required.

October 2, Cantaré, Songs and Rhythms of Latin America, Aspen Hill Library, 4407 Aspen Hill Rd., Rockville, 10:30 AM.

October 7, From Storyteller to Advocate: Transforming Experience into Political Change. Student Activity Center, Montgomery College Rockville Campus, 51 Mannakee St., Advocacy session,11 a.m.; storytelling session 1:30 PM.

October 7, Origem- Concert of Brazilian Jazz, Montgomery College Music Recital Hall, 51 Mannakee St., Rockville, 7:30 PM.

October 9, Family Day / Día de la Familia, Theatre Arts Arena, Montgomery College Rockville Campus, 51 Mannakee St., 1 PM.

October 9, Community and Job Fair, Legacy Hotel, 1775 Rockville Pike, Rockville, 10 AM.

Doggie Dip Day Was A Big Splash

Photo from Deborah Landau

When asked about the annual Doggie Dip Day at the Rockville Swim Center, Deborah Landau responded, “We just had a blast!”.

The first time the City ever offered the Doggie Dip, her family went.

It was just the perfect event for us. We loved the Rockville pool. We loved our dog. Our dog loved to swim.

Sheba by Deborah Landau

Although they weren’t able to attend the last couple of years because their dog was slowing down, they were quick to give it a try with their new dog named Sheba. She’s a two-year old mix they adopted from A Forever Home which takes dogs when they near the top of the list at shelters.

She’s just wonderful. We knew she really, really likes dogs but we didn’t know if she’d like to swim. She loved it!

Since the event started, it has become more and more crowded but the outdoor pool is so big everyone can spread out. Even with the space, the atmosphere becomes quite chaotic. The water is a “sea of tennis balls”. All the dogs play with them and everyone constantly throws the balls back into the pool. Some reckless leapers spend their time jumping in while others go in carefully. Of course a few dogs are bone-dry with no desire to go into the water at all. All of the people are dry too, because only dogs are allowed in the water.

Deborah explained that all the dogs seem to get along at the pool whereas sometimes at dog parks there can be conflict. She believes the pool is a whole new element which distracts them.

When I asked her who enjoys it more, owners or dogs? She laughed and decided on dogs.

We had a great time but we were ready to go home before the dog. She panted for a long time afterwards but her coat is all shiny and clean.

Photo by Deborah Landau

In the past participants could make a donation in a jar, but this year $5 was collected for each dog entering the pool. Cans of food were also being collected for the Manna Food Center.

Proof of rabies vaccination was necessary for dogs to enter. The Humane Society donated free rabies vaccines at the event, but dogs receiving them couldn’t attend Doggie Dip Day.

The event always includes displays from vendors which all have bowls of dog treats for the taking. Deborah bought a meaty bone from Potomac Kennels which she hopes will keep Sheba occupied the next time she visits her dog-friendly office.

When humans are done with the outdoor pool for the year, our canine friends definitely enjoy this annual chance to swim.

Uncorked Grows Into A Signature Event

DiVine mesmerized the crowd at Rockville’s Uncorked Wine and Music Festival on Saturday. This vine-covered performer characterized the uniqueness and growth of the event as she walked along the streets then blended into the scene. A few years ago the music festival was much smaller in scope and not as well-attended. The Town Square was new with saplings along the streets. Now the trees and the festival have grown so that a large green performer on stilts easily disappeared in the crowded street setting.

Locals didn’t want to miss Uncorked, especially when they spied clusters of grape-shaped balloons decorating the streets. People also came from around the beltway to taste the Maryland wines, often comparing them to Virginia’s reserve. Although there might be Maryland wine festivals in other parts of the state, this is the only one in the DC area.

Intent on discovering a favorite Maryland wine at the Festival, I brought together a small band of tasters, both friends and strangers. One of our participants recently moved to College Park from Seattle and decided to go to Uncorked after interviewing for a job in Rockville and seeing the banners. As the gang made their way through the selections from the wineries, people learned of our mission and would make recommendations. Everyone preferred dry reds, so the group searched for the best red wine. Maryland wines are often fruity and white, but the group wanted to know how Maryland’s contributions compare to the wines they usually consumed.

Although the decision was close and the tasters couldn’t try all of the wines offered, the group decided the Cabernet Sauvignon from the Boordy Vineyards was best. The Cabernet was smooth, refined, and more complex than other selections. Established in 1945, Boordy is Maryland’s oldest family-run winery. Located on a 230-acre farm in the Baltimore countryside, the winery specializes in oak-aged cabernets and it shows. Elk Run’s Merlot and Basignani’s Lorenzino Reserve were also favorites.

This year, the City of Rockville ordered 3,000 wine glasses, up from last year’s 2,000. The supply ran out around 4 PM when the event was still crowded and going strong. At the time, Superland was performing their new-era funk on the main Plaza stage. A sure sign of a good show, the crowd grew during their performance as more and more people were drawn to their “raucous horn section”. The headliner stage showcased the best of our area’s local talent and I’ve been told Bill Kirchen’s “rockabilly rave-up” was amazing when he took the stage at noon.

The Wine and Music Festival is a rare opportunity to introduce our local music talent and vineyards to a broader audience. Terrapin Station Winery tweeted “Rockville Uncorked is in the bag and what a day! This is our third year, and we thought we could predict the wine we needed but we sold out of three wines today.” If Terrapin Station is any indication, the outcome was prosperous for all.

Colleen McQuitty, Rockville’s special event manager, had many people tell her how much they enjoyed the local musicians and Maryland wines. She described it as “A good crowd having a good time.”

As Ernest Hemingway said “ Wine is the most civilized thing in the world.” Uncorked certainly is our proof.

Twilight Runfest Breaks Record, Encourages Running

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A record breaking 2,800 runners participated in the 25th Annual Rockville Rotary Twilight Runfest on Saturday, July 17, 2010. 2,400 had preregistered then another 400 signed up on race day, perhaps because a slight breeze and clear skies enticed runners at the last minute. With a previous high of 2,300, the race through neighborhood streets and around the Montgomery College Rockville campus is obviously gaining in popularity.

Potomac River Running Store, a new shop in Rockville Town Square, has been credited with helping to increase the number of participants. The shop created a team and successfully promoted the event. Beyond selling running gear, the shop has developed into an area focal point for runners with training programs and seminars.

The race typically invites a number of athletes to participate in the event including last year’s award winners and other outstanding runners in the region. Here are the results for the men and women showing the best Rockville times:

Men
1 Abiyot Endale, Bronx NY 23:58 4:50 mile
2 Demesse Tefera, Washington DC 24:06 4:51 mile
3 Rod Koborsi, Washington DC 24:35 4:57 mile
4 Gurmessa Megerssa, Washington DC 24:54 5:01 mile
5 Ricky Flynn, Lynchburg VA 25:02 5:03 mile
6 Joey Wiegner, Rockville MD 25:04 5:03 mile

Women
1 Salome Kosgei, High Falls NY 27:11 5:29
2 Malika Mejdoub, Catonsville MD 27:12 5:29
3 Elena Orlova, Gaithersburg MD 28:17 5:42
4 Lucinda Smith, Germantown MD 29:20 5:55
5 Lisa Thomas, Alexandria VA 29:32 5:57
6 Pam Maldeis, Towson MD 29:34 5:57

26 Julie Sapper, Rockville MD 33:09 6:39

The start of the 8k race was delayed to make sure all the sensors were working so many took off to stretch and stay loose then had to line up again.

Although competitive runners are encouraged to participate and the winner was from the Bronx, NY, many of our local Rockville neighbors can boast personal accomplishments. Some of the runners first started because of the Runfest. The local event through our neighborhoods appeared to be a good way to get healthier. With obesity and middle-age weight gain, any program which puts a healthy option in our neighborhoods provides a real benefit.

In 1992 Peter Boice thought he should find a way to stay in shape. He saw the Rockville Rotary Twilight Runfest and started to train during the spring as soon as the weather warmed. He’s run every year since. This year’s Runfest was his second event for the day because he also participated in an Annapolis Striders event in the afternoon. Peter Heister tried Pike’s Peek twice then added the Twilight Run this year. He walks during the day delivering our mail so an early morning running routine down Rockville Pike seemed like a natural progression. Whole families ran such as the Lynch family: mom, dad, teen sister and brother, who competed together. The youngest participant was 9-year-old, Garrett Parker who joined his dad Mark to complete the run and the oldest was 83 year old Nianxiang Xie.

My neighbor, Judith Scott, joined the Montgomery County Roadrunners Club in April. She’s been training and ran one other race this summer. The Club really has guided her and she recommends you join the right group for your ability and goals. Her daughter has made great improvements in the City Recreation Track program and now she is too.

Burt Hall, Recreation and Parks Director, emphasized safety at the forefront of this event. The course was closed to traffic, marshaled, and monitored. An emergency radio network was in place. Water and medical aid were located throughout. Four teams of two EMTs were on bikes, including volunteers from the Bethesda Chevy Chase station. A medical aid station was manned by 7 volunteers including nurses and a sports physician. Typically 8k races do not have extensive medical services but because of the heat extra precautions were taken.

The Rockville Rotary Twilight Runfest also has a wheelchair division and 1k fun run. Before and after live music creates a late summer night block party attracting up to 8,000 people eating, drinking and partying. The Lloyd Doppler Effect rocked the crowd packing the streets. This year they decided to keep the party going and not interrupt to announce the awards and prizes. All for a good cause since a portion of the proceeds benefits the Rockville Recreation Fund.

Here’s a video of all the runners crossing the starting line:

Sk8Park Goes Urban With A Summer Camp 360

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Jon McLaren

If you want to know about dedication, spend some time with Jon McLaren. I caught up with him while he worked to renovate the Skate Park in the rain. He was finishing up before the worst of a storm hit, squeezing in time during his busy schedule as Community Recreation Manager to make the renovations happen. He’s gone beyond his duties to improve the Skate Park, upgrade the summer camp program, and engage our young skateboarders.

Along the way he’s inspired and motivated the kids. They’ve been involved with the changes sending lots of emails with their ideas for repairs and changes. Reusing the wood and transporting supplies in his own truck, Jon has been doing the construction along with Rockville City Coordinator Ian Chamberlain and some teen volunteers. The “Sk8Park” is our unofficial teen center and lots of very radical things are happening in this small, fenced-in area.

Ian Chamberlain

When you read the Rock Enroll description of the Skateboarding Camp at the Skate Park, you don’t even begin to get the full picture of what our Parks and Recreation Program has developed for the camp, the facility, and our young people. The whole skateboarding program is airing a gap between the need for activities and the time on kids’ hands.

This summer the Camp has been expanded to five days a week. No longer being run by an outside company, the camp counselors have been chosen and trained by Jon McLaren who is a lifelong counselor and outdoor education instructor. Ranging in age from high school to college, the four counselors chosen to work this summer are skilled skateboarders who have undergone training, including first aid and CPR.

When I spoke with the youngest counselor, Paul Leiby, age 16, he was most looking forward to “having a positive influence on a kid’s life”. He’s been skateboarding since he was 12 and can’t wait to do activities with the kids. He’s most pleased to be a “part of the skate park community”.

Jon explained that the camp counselors will not only have much-needed jobs during the summer, they will also inspect the park throughout the year.

There are still openings for most of the weeks from June 21st to August 27th at the new Skateboarding Camp. Here’s the description from the Summer Camp catalog:

Radical dude! A fun camp for beginner through intermediate skate boarders. Learn to push, ride, tack-turn, ollie, kick flip, grind, stall and drop in. Skate park etiquette and more will be taught/reviewed. Campers must bring skate board, helmet, knee and elbow pads, wrist guards, water and snack. Note: Fee includes skateboard deck. Contact [email protected] for any additional questions.

Register with Rock Enroll using bar code # 31052. Ages 6-to-14 years. Fees are $155 for residents and $165 for nonresidents.

Skateboarding is an athletic art form and the goal is to make the Sk8Park a living art gallery with an urban feel. Skaters known for their artistic talents are invited to think up the designs and paint. This controlled graffiti will become a community asset in a living landscape. The community is invited to come and see the designs and skateboarders in action.

The Sk8Park is nine years old and it needs to be replaced. Five large renovations have been built out of the existing wood but the rest of the Park won’t last much longer. The $60,000 in funds was in the FY10 City budget and although it didn’t make it into this year’s budget, it is a FY2011 CIP. The intent is to use concrete which will last 20 years.

In the meantime, the Sk8Park has $5,000 for immediate repairs and $3,000 for new lighting to meet the need for skateboarding. Skateboarders do travel from all over the City to visit the free park and our youth could use additional facilities just like it in other neighborhoods.

On Saturday, June 26, 2010, the Sk8Park will be having a Contest.
Noon to 12:30 PM. Registration ($5.00) and Warm-ups
12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Skating
3:45 p.m. Awards.
Download Contest Waiver here.

Without a doubt, the Sk8Park is a gr8park and with all this effort, it’s only getting better.

Don't Even Think About Smoking Near Playgrounds

Last night the Mayor and Council approved a request by the >Recreation and Park Advisory Board to ban smoking within forty (40) feet of playgrounds at all City of Rockville parks and facilities. City Staff received favorable feedback since the proposal was first introduced at the August 3, 2009 Mayor and Council meeting.

The decision is a policy change, not a change in law. As with other park rules, compliance depends on the cooperation of park users. City police regularly patrol the parks. They will respond to complaints if they are available and not on service calls.

Smoking is already banned on City property near playing fields during games and practices, by the outdoor pool complex at the Swim and Fitness Center, and at the Dog Park at Stepanek Park. The ban is for City parks only, not privately-owned playgrounds.

At their July 23, 2009 meeting, the Recreation and Park Advisory Board considered a general ban on smoking within City parks but they decided this was not necessary and they voted unanimously to approve a recommendation near playgrounds.

The documentation for the Mayor and Council meeting lists the following actions to be taken to inform the public:

• A modestly-sized sign will be posted at each City playgrounds, with a friendly message of this sort: “Children at Play - Please - No Smoking Within 40 Feet of the Playground.”
• A press release will be issued to all media.
• The new policy will be published on the City’s website, in Rockville Reports, on Rockville Channel 11, in the Recreation Guides over the next year, on the weekly e-newsletter and on the City’s ‘Facebook’ page.
• A notice will be placed on the neighborhood association listserv.
• The policy will be included in the park rules and regulations.

So, don’t say you didn’t know.

Teens Have Their Turn on the Rooftop

As >we know, I enjoy the Rooftop events tremendously but most of the parties are for those 21 and over. Teens are going to have their chance with a Teen Summer Luau on the Rooftop.

Wednesday, August 19, 2009
7:30 – 11:30 PM
Teens ages 14 to 18 with valid ID
$8 for residents and $10 for nonresidents

Sign up on the Rockville Teen Program Facebook page and automatically be entered to win a prize.

FREE Carmen’s Italian Ice and smoothies. Dancing to the latest teen hits. What are the latest teen hits anyway? Who can tell me?

If it’s raining at 4:30 PM, the Luau will be cancelled.

If you have any questions, Rockville Teen Programs is 240-314-8638 or on the web.

After School Programs For Teens

>Nina Herndon, the Rockville Teen Programs Supervisor, has sent along information on Teen Lounges, the After School Programs for Middle School Students. Often parents, especially of new sixth graders, ask me if there’s any place the kids can go after school. There most certainly is!

Teens can get with the group for a fun, safe, laid-back after school lounge with Sony playstation, Xbox 360, Nintendo, Wii, sports, table tennis, clubs, computer games and internet access, field trips, craft projects, and, of course, homework time. Daily attendance is encouraged but not required. The program is closed holidays or days when MCPS schools are not in session.

This school year, Teen Lounge will be held at two locations:

Lincoln Park (not held on Wednesdays) Grades: 6-8
Transportation will be provided by MCPS. The program operates on Monday,
Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 3-6:30 PM and Noon-6:30 PM on half
days. (Participants can sign up for the Achiever program for Wednesday 29489)
M,Tu,Th & F 8/31-12/23 3-6:30 PM $100/$110 (Register for course: 29489)

Twinbrook
Transportation is provided by the City of Rockville from Julius West and
Wood middle schools. The program operates Monday through Friday,
3-6:30 PM and Noon - 6:30 PM on half days. (Register for course: 29415) M-F 8/31-12/23 3-6:30 PM $195/$215

Here’s a link to the complete Fall 2009 teen offerings.

Registration started yesterday. You can rock enroll to register.

For additional information, call 240-314-8634.

The Kids Came Out And Played

Last night all the >Playground Madness “camps” competed for the City Cup Award. Kids from all over Rockville brought their talents to Twinbrook Recreation Center. This summer, the skit competition was filled with tributes to Michael Jackson. Bouncing, dancing, slides, cartwheels, raps and shouts dominated the fun evening.

As soon as the skit competition was over and the award table was carried to the front, the crowd of kids went crazy with a giant extended roar. All those trophies!

I’m so excited because my Elwood Smith Playground won Best Skit of the Day. Here’s a video of the start of their performance Wade In The Water on saxophone, which was followed by ballet, Kung Fu and a giant cheer. These kids entertained with a variety of talent! (I have to disclose my son was one of them!)

City Staff visit the Playgrounds to determine who deserves awards in a variety of categories.

Best Banner – Montrose
Quick Start Tennis – Potomac Woods
Most Nurturing Staff – College Gardens
Most Sports & Games – King Farm
Most Challenging Situation to Overcome – Twinbrook
Most Enthusiastic – Double winners: Maryvale and King Farm
Most Organized – Lakewood
Best Staff Team – Double winners: Woodley Gardens and Montrose
Most Impressive – Elwood Smith
Quiet Storm – Lincoln Park Isreal

The large City Cup award goes to the best Playground representing all the energy and caring of a quality program. This year it was Potomac Woods. The kids were at a swim meet and couldn’t attend but I’m sure they’ll be excited. The two runners up for City Cup were Montrose and King Farm.

In addition to the competition, each playground hosted a game. The cost of the tickets benefited the Rockville Youth Recreation Fund. The Finest! also pounded their drums as part of the program.

Every summer, the City of Rockville brings our playgrounds to life with Playground Madness. For just $95 kids can play at their local parks from the end of June through the first week in August, 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM. When you look at the cost of camps for even one week, this program is extremely affordable. Not only does it provide much-needed quality activities for the kids, the program also trains counselors and teaches valuable leadership skills.

In the midst of all the kids carefully remembering their parts and demonstrating their favorite talent, it finally occurred to me why enjoy the skit competition. Each summer my mother would hang curtains across the garage and I would direct performances by all the kids in the neighborhood. We’d put together silly skits and invite all the parents. Come Out And Play has a much bigger audience.