Newcomers & Community Guide 2018-2019
New residents moving into
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Term limits, public campaign Unusual Election Year Here finance, lead to major changes. fter several primary elections de- Penny Musser, Republican Judy Docca cided after recounts by less than Montgomery County Shelly Skolnick, Republican Board of Education District 3 one percent of votes cast, and at Gabe Albornoz, Democrat Lynn Amano A Board of Elections ❖ least one surprise candidate com- Evan Glass, Democrat Patricia O’Neill ing in as an independent before the Aug. 6 2018 GENERAL ELECTION Will Jawando, Democrat District 5 deadline, the ballot is set for the Nov. 6 Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018 – 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Hans Riemer,❖ Democrat Brenda Wolf General Election. https://www.mont- Tim Willard, Green Paul J. Pykosh The Democratic primary for County Ex- gomerycountymd.gov/elections/ County Council District 1 Governor ecutive wasn’t settled until a recount, with index2.html Vote for one Vote for One Marc Elrich winning by 80 votes of more Check that you are registered to vote Richard Banach, Republican Larry Hogan,❖ Republican than 120,000 votes cast. Elrich served as https://voterser- Andrew Friedson, Democrat Ben Jealous, Democrat Montgomery County Councilmember at vices.elections.maryland.gov/VoterSearch State’s Attorney Shawn Quinn, Libertarian large, but had to leave the council due to Register to vote Vote for One Ian Schlakman, Green term limits. https://voterservices.electi John McCarthy,❖ Democrat, unopposed Comptroller Now Nancy Floreen, who also had to Clerk of the Circuit Court Vote for One leave her seat on County Council at Large, gomery County, including Potomac Commu- Vote for one Anjali Reed Phukan, Republican has entered the race an Independent. nity Center. During the early voting period, Barbara H. Meiklejohn, Democrat, unop- Peter Franchot,❖ Democrat Frequent candidate and architect of the any registered voter can vote at any of the posed Attorney General new term limits Robin Ficker is the Repub- 11 sites. Register of Wills Vote for One lican in the race. Vote for One Craig Wolf, Republican This could be a race where every vote Dolores Reyes, Republican Brian Frosh,❖ Democrat counts. Who Is on the Ballot? Joseph M. Griffin, Democrat U.S. Senate Check that you are registered, and still ❖ Indicates incumbent Sheriff Vote for One on the voter rolls by going to https:// County Executive Jae Hwang, Republican Tony Campbell, Republican voterser-vices.elections.maryland.gov/ Vote for One Darren Mark Popkin,❖ Democrat Ben Cardin,❖ Democrat VoterSearch before the Oct. 15 deadline. Robin Ficker, Republican Board of Education Arvin Vohra, Libertarian There is early voting in Maryland, any Marc Elrich, Democrat Vote for one in each district Neal Simon, Unaffiliated registered voter can vote Thursday, Oct. 25, Nancy Floreen, Unaffiliated Board of Education At Large Lih Young, Democrat, Write-In candidate 2018 through Thursday, Nov. 1, 2018 from County Council at Large Julie Reiley Congressional District 6 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. Voting early is a good Vote for Four Karla Silvestre Vote for One, (open seat) choice in an uncertain world. Robert Dyer, Republican Board of Education District 1 There are 11 early voting sites in Mont- Chris P. Fiotes Jr., Republican Maria Blaeuer See Unusual Election, Page 11
2 ❖ Potomac Almanac ❖ August 22-28, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Newcomers & Community Guide What’s Best About Living in Potomac?
Brigitte Oertel “Potomac is ideally located for driving downtown as well as out into the country. It has maintained its rural character which is what distinguishes it from other nearby H. David Meyers communities. For recreation, there are “Potomac is all about the wonderful Dr. Som Grigorian many parks with tennis courts, soccer and people who live here. I’ve lived here more “Potomac is so international and a beau- baseball fields and playgrounds, and for Deepa and Grace Lazarous than 30 years and I love the diversity, the tiful place to live. I love coming to Starbucks hikers and bikers Great Falls Park and the “We love the River Falls community and opportunities for interesting and intellec- in the Village to meet old friends for inter- C&O Canal are only a few miles away. Stores the people who live in it! Our neighbors are tual conversations and the wealth of activi- esting discussions – and to make new are just minutes away in Bethesda and always watching out for the safety of your ties in our region from classical music to friends.” Rockville and the Strathmore Music Center family. I feel very secure letting my kids go sports to politics. We are fortunate to have and Glen Echo Park offer a variety of pro- by themselves anywhere within our com- the Potomac Village gathering place near Compiled by Susan Belford grams in music and art.” munity.” Starbucks!” The Almanac
David Zenian “It’s cosmopolitan, civilized and quiet. William Maghrablian The people who live here are good neigh- “I’ve lived here in Potomac for 40 years Grigsby Family (Mom Stacey with children Sherlock, Jamie, Thalia and bors. I have lived and traveled the world and I love the people who live here. I enjoy Andrew, and Stacey’s parents Barbara and Joel Kamya) reporting for the United Press International, coming to the Village because I always con- Stacey said “We love the green spaces in Potomac.” Thalia said, “We have a lot of room very often in war-torn countries. We came nect with my friends. It is just a wonderful to play because our backyard is bigger than our old one.” Sherlock says, “I love our pool back here because it is a beautiful and place to live.” and back yard.” Stacey’s dad Joel and Barbara are from North Carolina. “We think Potomac peaceful place to live. We are very happy is really pretty and a nice place to live and visit.” here.”
POTOMAC ALMANAC Newcomers & Community Guide
is produced by Connection Newspapers www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Jill Lavin Local Media Connection LLC “I love the bike paths, the Canal, the out- Eric Maurer door seating in Potomac Village by Julie Chapman “I live in Cabin john and I love it because For more information, Starbucks where I always see someone I “We really value all the local businesses it is close to the Potomac River and the C&O call 703-778-9431 or email know, the proximity to DC and three inter- such as Sprinkles, Potomac Grocer and Canal. I also enjoy coming into the Village [email protected] national airports. I love playing tennis and others that add a personal touch of to Strosnider’s Hardware and the other golf with my friends. We love living here!” character and service to our town.” stores.” www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Potomac Almanac ❖ August 22-28, 2018 ❖ 3 Opinion POTOMAC ALMANAC About the Almanac, a Connection Newspaper www.PotomacAlmanac.com Newspaper of Potomac s your local, weekly newspaper, the awards and obituaries. A Connection Newspaper We are also interested in events at your Keep in Touch Potomac Almanac’s mission is to ❖ church, mosque, synagogue, community cen- ONLINE: www.connectionnewspapers.com An independent, locally owned weekly deliver the local news you need, to ❖ ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/ A ter, pool, school, club, etc. Email us a note newspaper delivered help make sense of what is happen- connectionnewspapers to homes and businesses. ing in your community, to advocate for com- about the event, being sure to include when ❖ LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: Email to [email protected] or submit and where the photo was taken and the names 1606 King Street munity good, to provide a forum for dialogue online at www.connectionnewspapers.com/contact/ Alexandria, Virginia 22314 on local concerns, and to record achievements, of all the people who are in a photo. letter/ ❖ Events to list in the calendar, milestones and events in the community and We also publish notes about news and events Free digital edition delivered to from local businesses. Notes about openings, www.connectionnewspapers.com/Calendar/ people’s lives. ❖ Digital editions of papers are available at your email box. Go to Here in our Newcomers and Community new employees and anniversaries are welcome. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com/PDFs connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe Guide, we report on the character of your com- It is especially important to us to let people ❖ Past issues of the Connection back to 2008 are know about events ahead of time in our calen- available at www.ConnectionArchives.com/PDF/ munity, we include details of how to vote in ❖ Advertising information, Special Section details EDITOR & PUBLISHER the upcoming elections, information on local dar of events. We appreciate getting notice at available here www.ConnectionNewspapers.com/ Mary Kimm least two weeks ahead of the event, and we advertising [email protected] government, nonprofits and business organi- ❖ @MaryKimm encourage photos. Sign up for a free digital subscription at zations, plus tips and tidbits from the commu- www.ConnectionNewspapers.com/subscribe, Call nity. The Almanac is one of 15 papers published 703-778-9431 EDITORIAL We invite newcomers and long-time residents by the independent, locally owned Local Me- PHONE: 703-778-9415 E-MAIL: alike to let us know how we’re doing and let dia Connection LLC, serving the suburbs of Follow Our Papers on Twitter [email protected] us know what is going on in your part of the Metropolitan Washington in Northern Virginia Connection Newspapers: www.twitter.com/ community. If you have questions or ideas, send and Potomac, Md. FollowFairfax; @FollowFairfax EDITOR us an email. We invite you to send letters to Our flagship paper, the Alexandria Gazette Alexandria Gazette Packet: www.twitter.com/ Steven Mauren, 703-778-9415 AlexGazette; @AlexGazette [email protected] the editor or to send an email with feedback Packet, is one of the oldest continuously pub- Arlington Connection: www.twitter.com/ about our coverage. lishing papers in the country, beginning publi- ArlConnection; @ArlConnection PRODUCTION EDITOR We want to know if someone in your family cation in 1784. Burke Connection: www.twitter.com/BurkeConnection Jean Card @BurkeConnection [email protected] or your community published a book, started Centre View: www.twitter.com/CentreView; a business, became an Eagle Scout, raised CONTACT @CentreView CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Chantilly Connection: www.twitter.com/ Susan Belford, Carole Dell, money for a good cause, accomplished some For advertising and marketing information, see ChantillyConnec; @ChantillyConnec Cissy Finley Grant, Carole Funger, www.connectionnewspapers.com/advertising email feat like running a marathon, supporting a Fairfax Connection www.twitter.com/FFXConnection Colleen Healy, Kenny Lourie, [email protected] or call 703-778- cause or having art included in an art show. @FFXConnection Peggy McEwan, Ken Moore 9431. Fairfax Station-Clifton-Lorton Connection: We publish photos and notes about personal Send news to [email protected] www.twitter.com/LFSCConnection; Contributing milestones and community events, including @LFSCConnection Follow Us On Facebook: www.facebook.com/ Photographers births, engagements, weddings, anniversaries, Great Falls Connection: www.twitter.com/ Harvey Levine, Deborah Stevens ConnectionNewspapers GFConnection; @GFConnection Art/Design: Laurence Foong, John Heinly, Ali Khaligh A River, a Canal, and a Vision Production Manager Geovani Flores By Ginny Barnes ADVERTISING ver wonder why you are attracted to For advertising information Potomac? Why you choose to live here [email protected] E 703-778-9431 or choose to stay? You may not see it on first arrival but Potomac has a history de- Display Advertising: fined and shaped by water — part of a long Kenny Lourie 301-325-1398 [email protected] river valley. Its strategic planning over much of the last century has been urged forward by Debbie Funk a vital imperative to protect the water we all National Sales & Real Estate 703-778-9444 need to sustain life. [email protected] The geographic area we know as the Potomac Subregion is defined and named for the mighty David Griffin Potomac River, settled by Paleo-Indians some Marketing Assistant 703-778-9431 12,000 years ago. Great Falls marked the fall [email protected] line; a point in the river where canoes had to leave the water and portage around the pow- Jerry Vernon Executive Vice President erful falls. It became a gathering place for na- Photos by Ginny Barnes 703-549-0004 tive peoples; a place to trade goods and ex- [email protected] change information. In the early 1700s, Euro- CIRCULATION pean explorers arrived and settled. They [email protected] cleared the forests and grew tobacco on large plantations. Tobacco cultivation quickly de- pleted soil nutrients.Local planters turned to Potomac Almanac is published by Local Media Connection LLC grains. Mills sprung up on streams leading to the Potomac. Our roads still bear their names. Names such as Glen Mill, Dufief Mill and Query Along the canal in autumn. Five Time First Place Award-Winner Mill. Public Service In 1828, President John Quincy Adams broke were built of Seneca sandstone. Construction mules moving farm produce, building materi- MDDC Press Association ground for the C&O Canal near Little Falls. It of the Washington Aqueduct in the 1850s en- als, flour, coal and finished goods up and down was envisioned as a major commercial venture. sured clean drinking water from above Great the 180-plus mile length. Four Time Newspaper of the Year By 1831, there were 20 miles of canal in use Falls. Also by 1850, the C&O Canal had ex- Despite the Civil War, the C&O Canal con- An Award-winning Newspaper from Georgetown to Seneca Here, a distinc- tended to Cumberland, giving access to rich tinued to operate and by the 1870s it began to in Writing, Photography, Editing, tive red sandstone was quarried and the canal veins of coal. The canal became a primary make some profit in tolls and tonnage moved. Graphics and Design facilitated movement of it down river. Many transportation corridor, supporting a thriving More than 500 boats were plying the canal, Canal lock houses and most of the aqueducts commercial culture of canal boats pulled by See A River, Page 15 4 ❖ Potomac Almanac ❖ August 22-28, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Newcomers
Potomac Area Neighbors Club board (from left): Poonam Mannan, Marjorie Rothschild, Kim Belvin, Laura Nash, Madhu Shekhar, Archana Dheer, Suzel Lemus, Susan Rosen; sitting: Alexa Kempel, Joanne Zinsmeister; not in picture: Anu Reddy. Inside PANC By Peggy McEwan with friends.” The Almanac “Within the larger club,” she said. “There are various Activity he Potomac Area Neigh- Groups that have their own events Tbors Club (PANC) offers and outings according to the residents, new and long- schedule and interests of each. time, ways to meet new friends, Some of these are Dining Inn, learn more about area and partici- Wine and Dine, Book Groups, Cu- pate in new activities. linary, Film Buffs, Current Affairs, “We are like a micro commu- Power Walkers, Bridge, Theater, nity,” Co-President Joanne Writing and Mah Jongg. Zinsmeister said. Though the membership is all The group brings people to- women, men are invited to partici- gether to socialize; enjoy favorite, pate in some of the activities, or new, activities; and learn from Zinsmeister said, particularly the guest speakers. dining groups. “Members are encouraged to Formerly the Potomac Area initiate and lead any activity they Newcomers’ Club, the group has may want to introduce, Co-Presi- been active for more than 50 dent Joanne Zinsmeister said in an years. email. “New and creative ideas are “We changed to name because being discussed constantly by the some people have been in the board.” group for a long time,” Kempel Zinsmeister and Alexa Kempel said in an interview last year. serve as co-presidents of the club Kempel herself has been in the but, Zinsmeister said, the group is group, which celebrated its 50th run by a board of directors that anniversary last year, for 12 years. meets monthly to plan and coor- “I have made amazing friends dinate the many activities mem- through this group,” she said. bers participate in. The group is hoping to expand “The Potomac Area Neighbors its reach and membership, Club is a social club of women who Zinsmeister said. Right now, there live in Potomac and surrounding are about 140 members, but the areas. It meets on the second board of directors hopes to expand Thursday of every month at an by becoming more multigenera- area restaurant, community cen- tional and attract working women ter or country club to conduct its by planning more evening and General Meeting,” Zinsmeister weekend activities. said. “Most monthly meetings also “The group accepts new mem- feature an interesting speaker or bers throughout the year,” theme along with time to social- Zinsmeister said. ize, enjoy good food and catch up Visit: potomacneighbors.com. Chamber Promotes Businesses, Community By Peggy McEwan Chamber of Commerce. There The Almanac they have an opportunity to meet other local businessmen and embers of the Potomac women to network and socialize. business community “Member businesses are a part M See Promoting, Page 14 make up the Potomac www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Potomac Almanac ❖ August 22-28, 2018 ❖ 5 Potomac Almanac Guide to Potomac River Enjoy the Potomac River &
Compiled by Ken Moore and the boat would run May to October, with Mary Kimm a typical schedule on Saturday & Sunday - The Almanac 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m. Call ahead to confirm. 301-767-3714 otomac is bordered by more than 12 miles of the C&O Canal INSIDER’S TIP: The Gold Mine Trail PNational Historical Park, can be accessed at the top of the entrance including the towpath and the to Great Falls, at the intersection of Falls Potomac River. Living in Potomac pro- Road and MacArthur Boulevard, or near vides opportunities to enjoy the sights the Great Falls Tavern Visitor’s center. and sounds of the river with outdoor Trails, which can be used for running with activities ranging from an easy stroll to a some steep inclines. See the remains of an challenging hike; a flat bike ride of a few old building that was used from 1900- miles to multi-day bike trip; rock climb- 1939 to mine gold. ing; world-class whitewater kayaking or a Photo by Deborah Stevens gentle paddle on flatwater. Wildlife is BILLY GOAT TRAIL abundant and birders flock to area. All Thousands hike the Billy Goat Trail outdoor areas of the C&O Canal National every year, with access from the Old Historical Park are open daylight hours Angler’s site or from the Great Falls year round. Visitors pay an entrance fee Tavern Visitors Center or Carderock. The at the entrance to Great Falls Tavern loop between the C&O Canal and Visitors Center at Falls Road and Potomac River is less than five miles long MacArthur Boulevard, but access every- but has steep and rocky sections. Bring where else is free. Three-day pass for a water and wear good walking shoes. No vehicle is $10; a person on foot is $5; The canal boat at the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park. flip flops or ballet slippers. Allow plenty annual pass is $30. to time to stop and enjoy spectacular See www.nps.gov/choh If you haven’t seen Great Falls, it’s time. You can borrow a bike to ride for free views of the cliffs, Potomac River passing Enter the C&O Canal National Histori- here from the C&O Canal Bike Loaner through the gorge and sensitive vegeta- cal Park here for up close views of Great Program, weekends and holidays, tion and rare plants. This hike that is Great Falls Tavern Falls by walking 0.2 miles over the weather permitting, 10-4. marked by light blue trail blazes to keep Olmsted Island Bridges to the overlook at www.facebook.com/bikeloanerprogram visitors from trampling on Bear Island’s Visitor Center and the end. Bridges and boardwalks traverse Accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. many rare plants and sensitive vegetation. a rare floodplain terrace environment, The tavern is open Wednesday through The trail can be rough and rocky with Olmsted Overlook ending with an observation deck over the Sunday from 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. steep climbs. But the trail is one of the 11710 MacArthur Blvd. spectacular views of the Falls and the http://www.nps.gov/archive/choh/ most popular hikes in all of the metropoli- 301-767-3714 head of Mather Gorge. Visitor/Centers/GreatFalls.html tan area, which can be done by people of all ages. Gladys Island ABOUT THE FALLS, from The Geologic Lock Island Swains Lock (Lock 21) Minnehaha Island Story of Great Falls and the Potomac INSIDER’S TIP: The park service
Bealls River Gorge published by the U.S. Geo- seeks volunteer trail stewards willing to Island Washington Aqueduct logical Survey in 1980: hike parts of the trail, educate visitors at Dam Conn 15 “In its seaward course, the Potomac the trailheads, protect the natural re- Great Falls Island Lock 20 River crosses many small rapids and sources of Bear Island, ensure visitors are Visitor Center cascades, but these are insignificant in prepared for the strenuous hike, share Olmsted Island Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center (bridges) Locks Canal boat rides Rocky Islands 17–19 comparison with the foaming fury of stories about the sensitive vegetation, and GREAT e Great Falls, where the river drops 12 reduce trampling of the Bear Island’s g FALLS r Gold Mine d o Lock 16 oa 189 Trail ls R PARK G Lock 15 Fal meters in about 180 meters and is chan- r POTOMAC Administered by e h B e George Washington t R
a a Great Falls Memorial Parkway i neled into a narrow rock-walled gorge r v
M e I s r l Billy a less than 25 meters wide in places. In the n d Widewater R Goat o Trail A a d summer the flow may be less than 38,000 Sherwin Island liters a second, but during floods the flow Angler’s Billy Goat commonly reaches 40 million liters a Trail B 190 Offutt second. The average flow pouring over M
O Island a
l c
d 193 A the falls is 349,000 liters of water every r th
D u Marsden Vaso r second and in a year, more than 9.5 o MA R YLAND m Tract Island B
i o n Turkey u l trillion liters, enough water to flood the i Island e o v n a r d Clara Barton entire District of Columbia to a depth of D 38 r Carderock Parkway i v e 55 meters, converting the Washington 10 495 738 Monument into a tall lighthouse.” Locks 13–14 Billy Goat Trail C American Legion 41 39 Memorial Bridge Lock 12 Great Falls Mule Drawn Boat Rides: Clara Barton 40 43 Parkway y Take a trip back in time to the 1870s Ride Photo by Mary Kimm w ay a Belt 44 G Lock 11 w
al e Lock 10 k pit o r Ca r a along the historic C&O Canal in a boat g Lock 9 P G e Seven
e n 495 o Locks h pulled by mules. Experience rising 8 feet r W o 45 g Lock 8 J e a River t s n o h Center i in a lock. Hear park interpreters in period w in b n g a t C P o clothing describe what life was like for i n k Do e lley M a the families that lived and worked on the diso Clara Barton n M B ou r l e National Historic Site e var e canal. The boat is not operating in 2018 d m 267 v
i o Glen Echo Park
R but will start again in Spring 2019. when r i Lock 7 a 123 l Horse riding along the canal. McLEAN 6 ❖ Potomac Almanac ❖ August 22-28, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Source: National Park Service http:// Newcomers & Community Guide www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit C&O Canal National Park
that you can rent by the night. The Canal many rare plants. Active trail stewards Quarters Interpretive Program invites carry park radios for emergency commu- visitors to stay in a historic lockhouse for nication and receive basic first aid train- a day and night to learn about the living ing to help with minor injuries. conditions of a lockkeeper’s family. www.chohvip.org/billy_goats/ www.canalquarters.org/
Carderock Recreation Area Blockhouse Point Reach this 200-acre part of the park Conservation Park from the Clara Barton Parkway at the 14750 River Road, Naval Surface Warfare exit. Rock climbers Darnestown, MD 20854 visit Carderock daily for its famous for www.montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-
cliffs. The recreation area includes trails/blockhouse-point-conservation- Photos by Mary Kimm playing fields, a large picnic pavilion park-trails/ available by reservation and access to the Those who know this 630 acres of land Potomac River and the Billy Goat Trail. call Blockhouse Point the jewel of www.recreation.gov Potomac. The natural and cultural resources at Blockhouse Point are INSIDER’S TIP: Get involved on the amongst the most valuable in the country. river by joining the Bike Patrol, becoming The park contains a variety of excep- a Billy Goat Trail Steward, or volunteer- tional and rare habitat, including mature ing to help run the Canal Boat, or serving upland forest, floodplain forest, wetlands, Walkers and kayakers make use of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal as a docent at the River Center at streams and river-rock outcrops. Nine National Historical Park. Lockhouse 8. www.chohvip.org species of threatened, endangered or watchlist species of plants have been Old Angler’s Inn Access identified in the park, along with 25 Across from 10801 MacArthur Blvd. species of fish, nine species of amphib- Between Carderock and Great Falls, you ians, four species of reptiles, 39 species of can also get across the canal to the nesting birds and 10 species of mammals. towpath and the River across from Old During the Civil War, the 19th Regiment Angler’s Inn on MacArthur Boulevard. A Massachusetts Voluntary Infantry built popular spot for kayakers and stand-up three blockhouses in 1862 to guard paddleboarders, and a great spot to find Violette’s Lock and Pennyfield Lock, outdoor adventure companies teaching taking advantage of panoramic views beginning to advanced paddleboarding, from Blockhouse Point. Union sentries kayaking and canoeing. Hiking enthusi- kept watch for Confederate movements asts have quick access to the Billy Goat across the river and at area fords. Trail from here, or those who simply want to take an evening stroll or bike ride INSIDER’S TIP: Montgomery County along the Berma Road or around developed a brochure so people can walk Widewater, the area of the canal used for the footsteps of Union Soldiers. Block- turning large boats around. house Point is an area to enjoy peace, solitude, and an example of the natural Swain’s Lock Violette’s Lock Riley’s Lock and cultural resources of Potomac that Swain’s Lock Road (off River Road) Violette’s Lock Road (off River Road) Riley’s Lock Road (off River Road) rival the most valuable in the country. Campsites are available at Swain’s Lock, Violette’s Lock offers one of the more Riley’s Lock features a boat ramp on http://www.montgomeryparks.org/ one of the largest of the canal lockhouses. beautiful views of the sunset over the Seneca Creek, the busiest in Montgomery uploads/2016/08/ The lockhouse is named for Jess Swain, a Potomac River. County, that allows easy access to a quiet blockhouse_broch_web.pdf lock-keeper in the early 1900s whose and inviting part of the Potomac River for father helped in the excavation and canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards construction of the canal. After running a and small motorboats. The Seneca Creek boat rental and refreshment stand at Aqueduct, opened in 1833 and made of Swain’s Lock for almost a century, the red sandstone, allowed thousands of family ceased operations in 2006. Mobile App to Help Explore Park canal boats to move across Seneca Creek A mobile app, “C&O Canal Explorer,” can aid users in exploring the 184.5 miles and 20,000 from 1833 to 1924, the year of the canal’s Pennyfield Lock acres of the C&O Canal National Historical Park. The app is available for download on both closing. The aqueduct was protected by Pennyfield Road (off River Road) Android and Apple devices from their respective app stores. Union garrisons during the Civil War. The mobile app includes over 600 points of interest in the park mapped in a searchable for- The three-mile walk from Pennyfield mat, allowing users to find at a glance hiking trails, historic sites, trailheads, parking, and more. Rileys Lockhouse is open most week- Lock to Violette’s Lock takes you through The app also calculates the distance from a user’s location to nearby amenities and points of ends in Spring and Fall. Volunteers in many kinds of bird habitat and around interest, with the ability to view what lies both upstream and downstream of a current loca- period costume guide you through one of Blockhouse Point. Pennyfield Lock was tion. the C&O Canal’s original lockhouses to The app was developed by the C&O Canal Trust, the official nonprofit partner of the Chesa- President Grover Cleveland’s favorite peake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, which works in partnership with the National explore the life of a lock-keeper. destination when he went on fishing Park Service and local communities to raise funds to preserve the park for future generations Call the program coordinator to con- excursions, according to the Potomac and to broaden support through programs that highlight the park’s historical, natural, and cul- firm, 301-384-8584. Master Plan. The Pennyfield Lockhouse, tural heritage and recreational opportunities. The app was developed in partnership with Cermak Technologies, Inc., with funding from built in 1879 inland from the lock house, the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority. INSIDER’S TIP: You can borrow bikes was the home of lock-keeper Charles W. Future plans include the addition of merchants (hotels, bed and breakfasts, restaurants, and and helmets for free at the Great Falls Pennyfield. shops) to the map and search features, as well as a downloadable map that will enable the app Tavern, courtesy of the volunteer-run INSIDER’S TIP: Pennyfield Lock is to work even when the users’ device is out of cellular range. C&O Canal Bike Loaner program. The The app can be downloaded from the Google and Apple App Stores and here: also home to a lockhouse built in 1830 www.canaltrust.org/plan/explorer-mobile-app/. group lends bikes every weekend of good weather to bicyclists of all ages. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Potomac Almanac ❖ August 22-28, 2018 ❖ 7 Newcomers & Community Guide Neighborhood Parks Potomac has many small neighborhood that offer hiking trails, basketball and tennis courts, playgrounds and sports fields, picnic areas, paths suitable for tricycles theater companies, and the Puppet Co. and more. Playhouse (www.thepuppetco.org) of- Fox Hills West fers shows as well as was for children to Buck Branch Potomac Almanac Neighborhood Park be involved. 22Neighborhood Park 26 8704 Bells Mill Road 12710 North Commons Way, Playground, lighted ballfield, and acquired in 1969 ow McKee Beshers n lighted tennis courts. Acquired in 1986 Two-acre park includes playground, 36Wildlife tennis courts, multi-use field and R Ro ad D Management Area gazebo. a n r Highland Stone w Located on River Road in Western to es Neighborhood Park rn Montgomery County, McKee-Beshers 40 Bedfordshire Da T d 8716 Post Oak Road Guide to Parks u WMA is a 2,000-acre tract in a mixture r Neighborhood Park d d k Playground, gazebo, short walking path; 27 ey a a of woodlands, fields, wooded bottom- F o o 11416 Bedfordshire Ave. o
R R acquired in 1975 o t land and managed wetland s otomac is home to a remarkable diversity of parks — na- d This 7.8-acre park acquired in 1968 r e
a h l impoundments (green-tree reservoirs). l g i includes a playground and multi-use tional parks, state parkland, county parks, conservation u Heritage Farm W H The wildlife management area shares a field.
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parks, equestrian parks, parks with adaptive playgrounds, e common boundary with the National Neighborhood Park E 24 W d P d oa Park Service Chesapeake and Ohio Ca- 9520 Hall Road parks with trains, dog parks, parks with ice skating rinks, Rive oa Gregerscroft r o R nal to the south and borders Seneca Playground, soccer field, softball parks that offer access to the Potomac River where the water is flat Neighborhood Park Ro Creek State Park, a 1,200-acre public field, two tennis courts, and picnic area. 29 ad and inviting and parks that offer access to the Potomac River where C.P. Huntington hunting area, on the east. 30 acres acquired in 1970 12021 Gregerscroft Rd. Acquired in 1969 the water can be deadly. Here, in an annual tradition, is our guide to d McKee-Beshers WMA provides habi- a Miniature Train o One-acre park with playground, pic- much of what Potomac’s parks have to offer. r R R tat for a great diversity of wildlife Potomac Community species including deer, wild turkey, wa- nic area, and open space with a natural d Neighborhood Park Travilah terfowl, over 200 species of songbirds, 25 surface trail. Wooded and near Watts 11301 Falls Rd., acquired in 1976 e Branch Stream Valley Park. s and numerous reptiles and amphibians. Carderock Playground, lighted ballfield, and
d l 30 Biologists deliberately flood forests dur- Recreation Area O lighted tennis courts. 1 R a e ing the fall and winter in “greentree www.recreation.gov, search “Carderock reservoirs.” These attract colorful wood Recreation Area Pavilion” S ducks as well as other waterfowl which Reach this 200-acre part of the park e v e migrate through or spend the winter from the Clara Barton Parkway at the n here. Hikers will find trails for miles and Naval Surface Warfare exit. miles, meandering through the forests, fields and wetlands. Hunters enjoy the Old Angler’s Inn Access pursuit of white-tailed deer, wild turkey, 2Across from 10801 MacArthur Blvd. woodcock, squirrels, waterfowl and De 0 many other species. Between Carderock and Great Falls, Roads are maintained and suitable for you can also get across the canal to the hiking, nature photography, birding, towpath and the River across from Old hunting and other recreational activi- Angler’s Inn on MacArthur Boulevard. ties. Visitors to the management area 495 should be aware of biting insects, mos- BILLY GOAT TRAIL quitoes and ticks from April-December. Ri Access from the Old Angler’s site or ve 3 r Area is wet most of the year, wear ap- from the Great Falls Tavern Visitors R oad propriate footwear. Center or Carderock. The loop between 4 the C&O Canal and Potomac River is less Blockhouse Point Conservation Park Serpentine Barrens than five miles long but has steep and rocky sections. 37Conservation farmland, and includes an 18-hole Robert C. McDonell Located near the miniature train, this Potomac Park North Great Falls Tavern course renovated in 2003, plus a club- Campground half-acre dog park is enclosed with a 6- Piney Meeting House Road house and driving range. Reserve tee 15 foot chain link fence, allowing dogs to 20Horse Center 7701 Tuckerman Lane Serpentine Barrens Visitor Center and times online. run and exercise off-leash. The facility is 14211 Quince Orchard Rd. 4 www.montgomeryparks.org for permits Olmsted Overlook open 9-5 p.m. Dog-park users are en- 301-208-0200 38Conservation Local Parks 11710 MacArthur Blvd. Cabin John couraged to use the Westlake Drive potomachorse.com Park South County-owned and privately run, this 301-767-3714 Regional Park parking lot. Please remember that all Glen Road Local parks serve a wider area and offer more facilities. 13 16 dogs should be on a leash before enter- large facility offers lessons at all levels The Serpentine Barrens Natural Area 7400 Tuckerman Lane Swain’s Lock Cabin John Ice Skating Rink ing and exiting the park. year round, summer camp, birthday is considered one of the most important Avenel Local Park Greenbriar www.montgomeryparks.org/parks-and- 10610 Westlake Drive parties and special events. Featuring Swain’s Lock Road (off River Road) natural areas in the county because of its 10551 Oaklyn Drive Local Park trails/cabin-john-regional-park/ 301-765-8620 riding classes for “Mini Mites” (5-8 year 23 41 5 Tai Chi Court unique geology and plant community. 12525 Glen Road Ice skating in August? Yes indeed. An old children) through adults of all lev- Pennyfield Lock This 528-acre park centrally located 7400 Tuckerman Lane Serpentine ecosystems are globally rare Playground, softball field, three soc- More than 16 acres of this 25 acre assortment of programs including les- els. Classical Dressage, Combined and occur intermittently in an arc east cer fields and tennis courts. Paths park, developed in 2016 on land ac- Pennyfield Road (off River Road) offers an Adventure playground, minia- sons and rental times. Sessions are Training, and a Hunter/Jumper pro- 6 ture train rides, dog park, picnic areas, The Tai Chi Court at Cabin John Re- of the Appalachian Mountains from Ala- suitable for bikes or children’s tricycles. quired in 1992, is undisturbed. Features available for the general public, adults gional Park is the first Tai Chi court in gram are available with riders Potomac bama to Maine. The trees are unusually The 20.7-acre park was established in of the park include a regulation soccer/ Lockhouse 8 campgrounds, nature center, a Tai Chi only and family time. Rental skates and competing under different trainers. Va- Bette Carol court, hiking and nature trails. Montgomery County and joins only few Community Center small relative to their age because of the 1989. football field with spectator areas, a a snack bar are located within the facil- riety of activities with approximately 12 33 Thompson Scotland challenging growing conditions of ser- 7 Shirley Povich Field, one of several of its kind in the nation. Built through 11315 Falls Road 34 single basketball/multi-use court, a ity. Call for schedules and fees. http:// a public/private partnership between M- horse shows a year, as well as clinics fea- Community Center pentine soils. Therefore, forests appear single grass volleyball court, a multi- ball fields, is home to the Bethesda Big www.cabinjohnice.org/ turing many disciplines, and other 240-777-6960 Glen Hills Local Park Blockhouse Point Train team and the Georgetown Univer- NCPPC, Montgomery Parks and the Wu www.montgomerycounty.gov/rec 7700 Scotland Drive to be early successional, but in reality 12511 Circle Drive age, interpretive playground, an asphalt Conservation Park Wei Tai Chi Club, the Tai Chi court is a recreational opportunities such as birth- 301-777-8075 are in a climax condition. Oaks as old 28 loop path and pedestrian connections, 8 sity baseball team, and seats 750. day pony parties, individual pony rides, This 25.2-acre park, land acquired in 14750 River Road, Darnestown, MD Pauline Betz Addie 48-foot-diameter circle of flagstone in- This is Montgomery County’s busiest Now named the Bette Carol Thomp- as 175 years old will have a diameter of entrance features, a picnic shelter, two Other sports facilities include a trail riding classes through wooded 1966, features a playground, two soft- 20854 Tennis Center corporating the shape of a yin/yang community center, providing a variety son Scotland Community Center, the trees you would expect to be one or two stone pergolas, a parking area with 70 lighted baseball field, five softball fields 17 parkland, open houses, a summer horse ball fields, overlay football field, two www.montgomeryparks.org/parks-and- 7801 Democracy Boulevard symbol and surrounded by benches in a of recreation activities for all ages such rebuilt facility opened in November decades old. spaces. The park also preserves large (one lighted), four lighted tennis prac- camp program, therapeutic horseback lighted tennis courts and a picnic area. trails/blockhouse-point-conservation- 301-765-8650 serene natural setting. It is located near as open gym, arts and crafts, exercise/ 2014. A larger gymnasium and modern More than 60 species of birds have portions of the site adjacent to the tice walls, nine lighted tennis courts, a riding, and more. park-trails/ pee-wee soccer field, four single wall Features six indoor tennis courts, a the dog park and miniature train at leisure classes, group support meetings interiors are a focal point. Upgrades to been detected in the park, including a Tilden Woods stream valley. handball courts and one volleyball lounge area, and two locker rooms with Cabin John Regional Park. and socials, senior adult activities the site include improved landscaping significant number of forest interior Rockwood Manor dwelling species such as Louisiana wa- Local Park Violette’s Lock court. showers. Professional on-site racquet through the Potomac neighborhood, and parking, meeting green building 30 Beverly Farms and sustainability goals; energy guide- terthrush, scarlet tanager, ovenbird, 6800 Tilden Lane Violette’s Lock Road (off River restringing and regripping is also avail- 21Educational Center Senior program, area and county-wide Local Park 9 able. Private and group lessons and Hadley’s Playground sports programs, summer camps, pro- lines, and the Americans with pileated woodpecker, and barred owl. Acquired in 1961 42 Road) Locust Grove and Special Park Seven-acre park with playground, 8505 Post Oak Road, Potomac seasonal court rentals. at Falls Road Local Park grams for individuals with special Disabilities Act. 19 11001 MacArthur Boulevard, Potomac ballfield, lighted tennis courts, basket- Land acquired in 1965 14Nature Center 12600 Falls Rd. needs, children and adult holiday par- Callithea Farm Riley’s Lock 301-563-7510 ball courts and picnic area. Beverly Farms Local Park is on 9.4 7777 Democracy Boulevard C.P. Huntington ties, volunteer opportunities and more. Glen Echo Park Riley’s Lock Road (off River 301-765-8660 Falls Road Local Park, which show- http://www.montgomeryparks.org/ 39Special Park acres located behind the Beverly Farms 10 parks-and-trails/rockwood-manor- Facilities include a gymnasium, exercise 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Road) www.montgomeryparks.org/parks-and- Miniature Train cases the award-winning Hadley’s Park, 35 15000 River Road Elementary School. The park features 18 room, meeting rooms, art room, lounge Glen Echo Seven Locks trails/cabin-john-regional-park/ 7410 Tuckerman Lane park/ Callithea Farm Park is a 97 acre prop- two playgrounds, a softball field, a base- allows all kids to play together. In 1986, www.glenechopark.org Hike the upper meadow of the Locust 301-765-8670 Train Information Built in the 1920s, the Manor was the area, community room and social hall. erty located adjacent to the M-NCPPC 31Local Park ball field, and a multi-use field. There Adventure the park system acquired the 20-acre Originally a Chautauqua retreat, then Grove Nature Center and look for mon- former country estate of Carolyn The outdoor area includes two baseball equestrian trails at Blockhouse Point 6922 Seven Locks Road, Cabin John are also two lighted tennis courts and a Conservation Park park, including soccer, baseball and an amusement park, Glen Echo National 11 arch butterflies and caterpillars, listen The miniature train is a replica of an Gangwer Caughey. Set on 30 acres of fields, lighted basketball and tennis Conservation Park and the C&O Canal. Acquire in 1974 picnic area. 10801 Glen Road, Potomac other sports fields. Hadley’s Park, and its Park now hosts a variety of arts, envi- 11.6 acres with playground, open for wrens and bluebirds, or watch for 1863 C.P. Huntington, a locomotive woods and adjacent to the C&O Canal, courts, and a former in-line hockey rink. Horse boarding is available. This 14-acre neighborhood conserva- accessible theme, equipment, design ronmental and history programs. shelter, soccer field, and lighted tennis box turtles crossing the path in the early purchased by the Southern Pacific Rail- Rockwood Manor offers a secluded and The Center offers table tennis, billiards www.www.montgomeryparks.org/ tion area established in 1969, includes and surface, have been emulated by Classes are offered in pottery, paint- courts. Falls Road morning. Wander to the Lower Meadow road, with five passenger cars, and naturally beautiful venue. and foosball, a gymnasium, weight parks-and-trails/callithea-farm-special- areas set aside for bird-banding. approximately 250 playgrounds across ing, photography, glass art, Local Park and watch bats in the late afternoon, sit carries visitors on a ten-minute, two- Rockwood Manor’s overnight lodg- room, social room, meeting rooms, and park 10 the country. The park is the brainchild silversmithing, textiles and other arts, as 12600 Falls Road under the shade of a 200-year-old sy- mile ride thorugh the park. Party room ings are available for destination hundreds of classes through the Mont- Cabin John of a Potomac family whose daughter, well as in dance, writing and music. Including Hadley’s Playground Falls Road camore and spot minnows, crayfish, available weddings, multi-day business retreats or gomery County Recreation Department. Local Park Hadley, uses a wheel chair. The family The famous 1921 Dentzel Carousel in 32 See 19 Golf Course bathing birds or beaver activity in the Open 10a.m.-6p.m. seven days a week training sessions, family reunions, work- The Montgomery County Recreation 12 envisioned an accessible playground af- the center of the park has been giving 7401 MacArthur Boulevard, Cabin John 10800 Falls Rd. Cabin John Creek. Locust Grove offers June 1-Sept. 3, plus weekends in shops, weekend or weekday getaways Dept., along with the Friends of the Six-acre park established in 1933 in- ter watching her daughter’s wheelchair rides to the public for 90 years. 301-299-5156 programs featuring local natural and May, September and October. and other events. PCC, Inc. has opened the outside inline cludes playground, multi-use field, get stuck in playground mulch as she Adventure Theatre (www.adventure www.montgomerycountygolf.com cultural history for children, teens and Facilities for weddings, meetings, rink for children and adults with special softball field, lighted tennis court, bas- played with her sibling and friends. theatre-mtc.org, 301-634-2270) is one Falls Road Golf Course was com- adults. Dog Park with overnight accommodations and needs. ketball courts, and picnic area. of the area’s longest running children’s pleted in 1961 on 150 acres of former 10900 Westlake Drive dormitories for youth groups. 8 ❖ Potomac Almanac ❖ August 22-28, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Potomac Almanac ❖ August 22-28, 2018 ❖ 9 Potomac REAL ESTATE Photos by Deb Stevens/The Almanac
4 9207 Moultrie Parkway — $1,210,000
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Gl e en s Flower Gate u o o ad $1,200,000~$1,289,000 Terrace — e $1,200,000 Road In June 2018, 74 Potomac homes sold between $2,160,000-$525,000. Lane
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7 7811 Stable Way — $1,200,000 3 7734 Laurel Leaf Drive — $1,234,990
Address ...... BR FB HB . Postal City . Sold Price ... Type ...... Lot AC .. PostalCode ...... Subdivision ...... Date Sold
1 9616 CONESTOGA WAY ...... 6 .. 5 . 3 .... POTOMAC ... $1,289,000 ... Detached ...... 0.47 ...... 20854 ..... MASS AVE HIGHLANDS ..... 06/15/18
2 10908 BELLS RIDGE DR ...... 5 .. 4 . 1 .... POTOMAC ... $1,265,000 ... Detached ...... 0.27 ...... 20854 ...... BELLS MILL ESTATES ...... 06/30/18
3 7734 LAUREL LEAF DR ...... 5 .. 4 . 1 .... POTOMAC ... $1,234,990 ... Detached ...... 0.36 ...... 20854 ...... WOODROCK ...... 06/22/18
4 9207 MOULTRIE PKWY ...... 4 .. 4 . 1 .... POTOMAC ... $1,210,000 ... Detached ...... 0.69 ...... 20854 ...... POTOMAC OUTSIDE ...... 06/01/18
5 11413 BIG PINEY WAY ...... 4 .. 5 . 1 .... POTOMAC ... $1,200,000 ... Detached ...... 2.00 ...... 20854 ...... SADDLE RIDGE ...... 06/04/18
6 10101 FLOWER GATE TER ..... 4 .. 4 . 1 .... POTOMAC ... $1,200,000 ... Detached ...... 0.31 ...... 20854 ...... AVENEL ...... 06/29/18
7 7811 STABLE WAY ...... 4 .. 4 . 1 .... POTOMAC ... $1,200,000 ... Detached ...... 0.16 ...... 20854 ...... RIVER FALLS ...... 06/15/18
10635 MACARTHUR BLVD ..... 4 .. 3 . 1 .... POTOMAC ... $1,200,000 ... Detached ...... 0.53 ...... 20854 ...... POTOMAC OUTSIDE ...... 06/28/18 8 10635 MacArthur Boulevard 8 — $1,200,000 Copyright 2018 MarketStats for ShowingTime. Source: Bright MLS as of July 13, 2018.
10 ❖ Potomac Almanac ❖ August 22-28, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Newcomers & Community Guide Unusual Election Year Here From Page 2 Early Voting Sites Any registered voter in Montgomery Amie Hoeber, Republican County can vote early, Thursday, Oct. 25, David Trone, Democrat 2018 through Thursday, Nov. 1, 2018 from Kevin T. Caldwell, Libertarian 10 am until 8 pm at any of the following George Gluck, Green sites: Congressional District 8 ❖ Germantown Community Recreation Vote for One Center 18905 Kingsview Road John Walsh, Republican Germantown, MD 20874 Jamie Raskin,❖ Democrat ❖ Marilyn J. Praisner Community Recre- Jasen Wunder, Libertarian ation Center 14906 Old Columbia Pike State Senator District 15 Burtonsville, MD 20866 Vote for One ❖ Executive Office Building Auditorium David Wilson, Republican 101 Monroe Street Rockville, MD 20850 Brian J. Feldman,❖ Democrat ❖ Silver Spring Civic Building at Veter- State Senator District 16 ans Plaza One Veterans Place Silver Spring, Vote for One MD 20910 Marcus Alzona, Republican ❖ Activity Center at Bohrer Park Social Susan C. Lee, Democrat Hall 506 S. Frederick Avenue Gaithersburg, State Delegates, District 15 MD 20877 Vote for Three ❖ Damascus Community Recreation Cen- Laurie Halverson, Republican ter Social Hall 25520 Oak Drive Damascus, Jacobs Harvey, Republican MD 20872 Marc A. King, Republican ❖ Jane E. Lawton Community Recreation Kathleen Dumais,❖ Democrat Center Social Hall 4301 Willow Lane Chevy David Fraser-Hidalgo,❖ Democrat Chase, MD 20815 Lily Qi, Democrat ❖ Mid-County Community Recreation State Delegates, District 16 Center Social Hall 2004 Queensguard Road Vote for Three Silver Spring, MD 20906 Bill Day, Republican ❖St. Catherine Laboure Catholic Church Ariana Kelly,❖ Democrat 11801 Claridge Road Wheaton, MD 20902 Marc Korman,❖ Democrat ❖ Potomac Community Recreation Cen- Susan Love,❖ Democrat ter 11315 Falls Road Potomac, MD 20854
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www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Potomac Almanac ❖ August 22-28, 2018 ❖ 11 Fairs, Festivals & Fun Runs
Landon campus, 6101 Wilson Lane, August 2018 Bethesda. The annual festival dates Great Falls Tavern, Mule-Drawn back to the mid-1950s when Landon’s founders, Paul and Mary Canal Boat Rides. August-
File photo by Deborah Stevens Lee Banfield opened the newly September, Friday-Sundays, 11 a.m., acquired azalea garden to the public. 1:30 p.m., and 3 p.m. at Great Falls Call 301-320-3200 or visit Tavern Visitors Center, 11710 www.landon.net. MacArthur Blvd. Take a boat ride Mark’s Run. At Triplett Field, Bordley along the historic C&O Canal. Tickets Stadium. A 5-K race and one-mile are $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, $5 run also takes place during the for children, and children 3 and Landon Azalea Garden festival. under ride for free. Visit Mark’s Run is held each year in www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/ memory of alumnus Mark Ferris ’94, great-falls-canal-boat-rides.htm. who lost his battle with juvenile Carousel Rides. August-September, diabetes. The run raises more than Wednesday, Thursday & Friday, 10 $50,000 for the Mark Ferris am - 2 pm, Saturday & Sunday, 11am Scholarship Fund and $75,000 to the - 5 pm in August. Saturday & Joslin Diabetes Center. Call 301-320- Sunday, 11am - 5pm in September. 3200 or visit www.landon.net. Take a ride on the historic 1921 Hometown Holidays is a Memorial Dentzel Carousel at Glen Echo Park. ‘Park After Dark’ Day festival and parade in the City of Tickets are $1.25 per ride per person. Supporters of the C&O Canal Trust gathered Sept. 16, 2017, for the annual “Park After Rockville with concerts, children’s Visit glenechopark.org/carousel. Dark” event. Visit www.parkafterdark.org. crafts and games. Call 240-314-5022 AUG. 31-SEPT. 3 or visit www.rockvillemd.gov. Annual Yellow Barn Studio and is the Potomac Day Parade at 10:30 jingle-bell-jog-2018/. MAY-JULY Gallery Drawing Exhibition. 6-9 SUNDAY/SEPT. 9 a.m., featuring hundreds of entrants, Bethesda Summer Concert Series. p.m. on Friday, 12-5 p.m. at 7300 Parks Half Marathon. 6:45-10 a.m. A including bands, horses, classic cars, MacArthur Blvd. In cooperation with marathon race showcasing the school groups, scouting February 2019 Free. Last year’s Thursday concerts organizations, and candidates for took place at Veterans Park, at the the Friends of the Yellow Barn, an Montgomery County parks system. Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival. 1750 elected office. Free. Call 301-299- corner of Norfolk and Woodmont exhibition open to all members of the Visit www.mcrrc.org/calendar-event/ Rockville Pike, Rockville. The festival 2170 or visit potomacchamber.org. avenues. See www.bethesda.org. Yellow Barn. A closing reception will parks-half-marathon-2018/. provides live musical performances, be held on Monday, Sept. 3, 4-6p.m. SATURDAY/SEPT. 15 workshops and seminars. See Visit www.yellowbarnstudio.com/ www.midatlanticjazzfestival.org. SpecialEvents.htm. Park After Dark. 6-10 p.m. at C&O November 2018 June 2019 Canal National Historical Park – Potomac Village Farmers Market. Imagination Bethesda, annual Great Falls Tavern, 11710 MacArthur Thursdays, 2-6:30 p.m. at Potomac April 2019 children’s street festival celebrating September 2018 Blvd., Potomac. Attendees enjoy live United Methodist Church, 9908 S. the arts. The festival features music, food, libations, auction items, The Bethesda Literary Festival is costume characters, face painters, Glen Road. Visit held annually in April. Features SATURDAY-MONDAY/SEPT. 1-3 desserts, a campfire and more. Event www.potomacvillagefarmersmarket.net. international dance troupes, theater tickets are $250 per person. Visit poets, authors, journalists, novelists, Labor Day Art Show. Friday, 7 p.m.; Christmas Tree Sale. Last weekend performances, a moon bounce and a www.parkafterdark.org. poetry slams, essay contests and Saturday-Monday, 12-6 p.m. at in November. Cabin John Park variety of hands-on arts activities. youth book parties. Visit Call 301-215-6660 or see Spanish Ballroom – Glen Echo Park, SUNDAY/SEPT. 23 Volunteer Fire Department, Station www.bethesda.org. 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo. 10, 8001 River Road. Visit www.bethesda.org. Cabin John Kids Run. 9-10 a.m. at Pike’s Peek 10K. 7:50 a.m. at the Glen Echo Park’s Summer Concert Find art of various media. “Cash and www.cjpvfd.org. Cabin John Regional Park. Sunday, Shady Grove Metro Station. See Series carry” jewelry available for the the begins in June on Thursday Sept. 24. A mile run, half-mile young www.pikespeek10k.org. third consecutive year. Free. Visit THURSDAY/NOV. 22 evenings. Free. See run and quarter mile young run is The Annual C&O Canal Pride Days. glenechopark.org/ldas. Turkey Chase. 8:30 a.m. at 9401 Old www.glenechopark.org. 301-634- offered. Registration is race-day only. This is a joint effort between the park 2222. Georgetown Road at Spruce Street. and C&O Canal Trust that brings MAY-SEPTEMBER Free for runners 17 and under. Visit The Turkey Chase 10K Run benefits Quicken Loans National. This event www.mcrrc.org/calendar-event/ hundreds of volunteers into the park Art Walk in the Park. First Fridays the YMCA Bethesda-Chevy Chase, features 120 PGA Tour professionals cabin-john-kids-run-2018/. to conduct maintenance projects. through at Glen Echo Park, 7300 YMCA’s Youth and Family Services at Congressional Country Club in Work at C&O Canal National Bethesda. The event raises funds and MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo from 6-8 SATURDAY/SEPT. 29 and the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Historical Park at Great Falls Rotary Club Foundation. Includes a awareness for the Tiger Woods p.m. Enjoy pottery, glass work, Montgomery County Out of the (Maryland) and other sites along the two-mile walk/run; wheelchairs Foundation. See photography, and much more. Visit Darkness Community Walk. Potomac River and C&O Canal welcome. Registration is $10 for the www.tigerwoodsfoundation.org. glenechopark.org/artwalk. 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. in Rockville Town towpath. Call the Canal Trust at 301- Kid’s Run, $20 for the 2 mile race, Square, Rockville. This walk, in 714-2233, www.canaltrust.org or MONDAY/SEPT. 3 and $35 for the 10K. Visit conjunction with over 300 www.nps.gov/choh Irish Music and Dance Showcase. give.turkeychase.com/event/36th- July 2019 communities across the country this Potomac Watershed Cleanup. annual-turkey-chase/e191011. Autism Speaks Annual 5K 1-6 p.m. at 7300 MacArthur Blvd at fall, benefits the American Saturday, April 13. This volunteer run and the Bumper Car Pavilion. Attend a one-mile walk benefits research on Foundation for Suicide Prevention. NOV. 24-DEC. 31 event is sponsored annually by Alice day of Irish music and dance Visit afsp.donordrive.com. Ferguson Foundation. See autism. See www.autismspeaks.org Winter Lights Festival. At Seneca presented by the Glen Echo Park www.fergusonfoundation.org. or email autismspeaks5K@ Partnership for Arts and Culture and Creek Park, 11950 Clopper Road, autismspeaks.org. the Irish Inn at Glen Echo. Free. Visit October 2018 Gaithersburg. Winter Lights is a 3.5- Montgomery County Fairgrounds glenechopark.org/irishmusicdance. mile drive through a holiday light May 2019 4th of July Fireworks activities Labor Day Parade. 1 p.m. in the Taste in Potomac. 6:30-11:30 p.m. at show at Seneca Creek Park with more include live music, games and food. streets of Olde Towne Gaithersburg. Bolger Center, 9600 Newbridge than 360 illuminated displays. Potomac Horse Center Annual Call 301-258-6350. See Celebrate Labor Day with Drive, Potomac. The Taste in Additional events include Wine Spring Open House. See www.gaithersburgmd.gov performances, antique cars, marching Potomac is a community event that Under the Lights, Run Under the www.PotomacHorse.com. Montgomery College Rockville bands, and more. Free. Visit raises funds to help children in foster Lights, Leashes ’n’ Lights, and, S’More Run Aware 5K. Race through woods, Campus 4th of July Fireworks, www.gaithersburgmd.gov/leisure/ care find adoptive families. Tickets Lights & Trolley Rides. Visit trails, and, if lucky, mud. Along with Rockville. Activities include live labor-day-parade. start at $200. Visit www.gaithersburgmd.gov/leisure/ the 5K (Cross Country Series) race, music and food. Call 240-314-5022. www.adoptionstogether.org/events/ special-events/winter-lights-festival. there will be a 1K (Junior See www.rockvillemd.gov. SEPT. 6-30 tasteinpotomac/. Participation Series) race. See The Potomac Whitewater Festival The Trawick Prize Exhibition. SerbFest. Sunday, Saint Luke Serbian www.mcrrc.org. in late June or early July is an annual Wednesday-Saturday, 12-6 p.m. in Orthodox Church, 10660 River Road, December 2018 Spring Festival. Greek Orthodox fundraising event that celebrates Church of St. George, 7701 Bradley downtown Bethesda at Gallery B, Potomac. Serbian dishes, beverages, Santa on Fire Engines Toy kayaking in the Potomac River. dance and music performances, gifts Blvd., Bethesda. The annual festival located at 7700 Wisconsin Ave., Suite Collection. A procession of fire Offers races for kayakers and clinics and boutique items and family- includes traditional Greek cuisine, E. This exhibition features The engines run by the Cabin John Park and activities for the public. See friendly activities. Visit outdoor/indoor dining, Greek Trawick Prize finalists for the Volunteer Fire Department, carry www.potomacfest.com or www.serbfestdc.com. dancing, church tours and Greek Bethesda Contemporary Art Awards. Santa on a tour of Potomac anadventures.com. Taste of Bethesda. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. pastries. Call 301-469-7990 or visit Visit www.bethesda.org/bethesda/ neighborhoods over the course of Bethesda Outdoor Movies. Annual along Norfolk, St. Elmo, Cordell, Del www.stgeorge.org. Trawick_Prize_Exhibition. several evenings in December, outdoor movie series at corner of Ray, and Auburn avenues. Local The Potomac Hunt Races. 10 a.m.-7 collecting unwrapped new toys for Norfolk and Auburn avenues. Contact SATURDAY/SEPT. 9 restaurants and entertainment come p.m. at 14401B Partnership Road, needy children. Call 301-365-2255 or 301-215-6660 or visit Potomac Library Book Sale. 10 together for the Annual Taste of Poolesville. Race day festivities www.bethesda.org. visit www.cjpvfd.org. include steeplechase racing, a.m.-12 p.m. at 10101 Glenolden Bethesda. Admission to the festival is Bethesda’s Winter Wonderland. Farm Tour & Harvest Sale. Various free, taste tickets are sold in bundles thoroughbreds and festival tailgate Drive. Visit This seasonal event takes place in times at various locations in of four for $5. Visit bethesda.org/ parties, a car show, pony rides and www.montgomerycountymd.gov/ multiple locations, including concerts Montgomery County. Montgomery bethesda/taste-bethesda. more. General admission is $40 per library/branches/potomac.html. at Imagination Stage and in County celebrates its agricultural Antique and Classic Car Show. 11 vehicle and Patron tickets are $225. Bethesda’s Woodmont Triangle. The heritage. Admission prices vary based SATURDAY/SEPT. 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at Rockville Civic See www.potomachuntraces.com. event features caroling, ice sculpting, on farm. Visit Center Park, 603 Edmonston Drive, Strawberry Festival. Potomac United Carnival of Chocolates. 12-5 p.m. at storytelling, holiday performances www.montgomercountrymd.gov/ Rockville. Find more than 500 Methodist Church, 9908 S. Glen Rockville Town Square, Rockville. and hands-on craft activities for agservices/agfarmtour.html. antique and classic cars. Free. Visit Road, Potomac. Berries, a silent This year’s event will include children. Call 301-215-6660 or visit www.rockvillemd.gov/667/Antique- auction, bake sale, rummage sale, chocolate tastings from local www.bethesda.org. chocolatiers, live music, games, and Classic-Car-Show. craft fair, dollar items and games and August 2019 Potomac Day. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. at 9812 activities for children. Call the church children’s story times. Proceeds SUNDAY/DEC. 9 Riley’s Rumble Half-Marathon. Falls Road, Potomac. Arts and at 301-299-9383 or visit See benefit The Dwelling Place, a non- Jingle Bell Jog. 9-10:30 a.m. at the entertainment for all ages, ranging www.potomac-umc.org. www.mcrrc.org. profit dedicated to homeless families. Rockville Senior Center, 1150 Montgomery County Agricultural from rides for children to a classic car The Landon Azalea Garden Free to attend. Visit tdp-inc.org. Carnation Drive. VIsit Fair show and business fair. The highlight Festival. Perkins Garden and the is a favorite destination each www.mcrrc.org/calendar-event/ August. See www.mcagfair.com. 12 ❖ Potomac Almanac ❖ August 22-28, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Entertainment Sprinkles Submit entertainment announcements at www.connectionnewspapers.com/Cal- endar/. The deadline is noon on Friday. Catering to Potomac for 29 years 50% OFF Photos/artwork encouraged. Super Premium Ice Cream Any Juice Bar Item ONGOING 40 Flavors Potomac Place Shopping Center 10148 River Road 6th Annual Juried Show for Young • Espresso Potomac Village, Md. 20854 Photographers. Through Sept. 2, • Fronana Saturdays, 1-4 p.m.; Sunday- Not affiliated with or owned Monday, 1-8 p.m. at Photoworks in Courtesy of Bethesda Ro • Catering or operated by Sprinkles Glen Echo Park, 7300 Macarthur Blvd, Glen Echo. Photoworks • Juice Bar Now Open! Cupcakes, LLC. presents the annual juried Youth • Sugar-Free 8-Calorie 301-299-8415 Photography Competition, “Listen Sprinklespotomac.com Up!” A selection of work has been Frozen Yogurt collected from budding youth • Fat-Free Frozen Yogurt Limit one coupon per customer photographers for this year’s exhibit. Exp. 9/30/18 Visit glenechophotoworks.org/. • Donuts, Bagels & Pastries (Children 12 & under only)
DANCING Weekly International Folkdancing. w Arts Festival Thursdays, 7:30-11 p.m. at Church of the Redeemer, 6201 Dunrobbin Drive, Bethesda. Circle and line dances from Eastern Europe. Lesson at 7:30, followed by requests. Glen Echo Folkdancers welcome beginners of all ages; no partner needed. Wear comfortable shoes. $7. Call 301-466- 3018 or visit Bethesda Arts Festival www.dancingplanetproductions.com. The 21st Annual Bethesda Row Arts Festival, one of the region’s premier arts Thang Ta. Wednesdays, 6-7 p.m. at festivals, brings together 190 national artists in a free outdoor art gallery. There Sutradhar Institute of Dance and are many local artists selected by the jury participating in this event. Saturday, Oct. Related Arts, 1525 Forest Glen Road, 13, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, Oct. 14, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at Bethesda Row, 4841 Silver Spring. Learn the ancient art of Bethesda Ave., Bethesda. Free. Call 301-637-5684 or visit the sword and spear. $25. Visit www.bethesdarowarts.org for more. www.dancesidra.org. Weekly Blues Dance. Thursdays 8:15-11:30 p.m. in the Back Room children’s backpack for the donation Bethesda. Bethesda Arts & Annex at Glen Echo Park, 7300 drive. Receive one raffle ticket per Entertainment District is seeking MacArthur Blvd. Capital Blues backpack, which is good towards a proposals from mural artists who are presents rotating DJs and instructors free Ben & Jerry’s serving and in the 18 years of age or older and residents with beginner workshop 8:15-9 p.m., drawings for the raffle prizes. Tickets of Washington, D.C., Maryland or no partner necessary. $8 for all. will be available to purchase on site. Virginia. Artists must have prior capitalblues.org Pre-register to include a vehicle in experience with the design and Weekly Swing Dance. Saturdays, 8 the car show. Email installation of large scale murals. A p.m.-midnight. The DC Lindy [email protected]. $50,000 stipend will be provided to Exchange presents a swing dance Libraries Rock – Dance Party. 2-3 the selected artist to pay for supplies with live music in the Spanish p.m. at Potomac Library, 10101 and the artist’s time. The deadline to Ballroom, Glen Echo Park, 7300 Glenolden Drive, Potomac. Don the apply is Sept. 1, 2018. The project MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo. best pop star outfit or craziest hair must be completed by Nov. 1, 2018. Beginner swing dance lesson at 8 and dance. Photo props, a bubble Visit bethesda.org. p.m., followed by dancing. Admission machine and a music playlist to keep everyone moving. This program is $16-$18, age 17 and under $12. Visit SUNDAY/SEPT. 2 www.glenechopark.org. sponsored by the Friends of the Argentine Tango with Lessons. Library-Montgomery County. Free. Waltz Dance. 2:45-3:30 waltz Most Sundays, 6:30-11 p.m. in the Call 240-777-0694. workshop; 3:30-6 p.m. dance at the Back Room Annex at Glen Echo Park, Protecting the Canal: 1861-1865. Bumper Car Pavillion at Glen Echo 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo. 2-3 p.m. at Great Falls Tavern Visitor Park, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Argentine Tango lessons followed by Center, 11710 MacArthur Boulevard, Echo. Featuring the ensemble Devine a Milonga most Sunday evenings. Potomac. Explore Civil War efforts to Comedy with a mix of folk waltzes Beginner lesson 6:30-7:30 p.m. and protect the C&O Canal and the effect with a few other couple dances, intermediate lesson 7:30-8:30 p.m. of war on families living along it. including Hambo, Schottische, Cost is $15/lesson and includes the Space limited to 25 people; make Swing, Tango, and Polka. Admission Milonga. For just the Milonga, cost is reservations at [email protected]. is $13. No partner required. Call Joan $10 and the open dance with DJ runs Park entrance fees may be charged at Koury at 202-238-0230 or Glen Echo 8:30-11 p.m. No partner required. Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center but Park at 301-634-2222, go to www.glenechopark.org, 301-634- park ranger programs are free. Call www.WaltzTimeDances.org or e-mail 2222. 301-767-3714. [email protected]. Contra and Square Dance. Fridays and Sundays 7-10:30 p.m. in the WEDNESDAY/AUG. 29 MONDAY/SEPT. 3 Spanish Ballroom at Glen Echo Park, 7300 MacArthur Blvd. The evening Libraries Rock with Groovy Nate. Awards Ceremony and Reception. can include square dances, mixers, 10-11 a.m. at Potomac Library, 4-6 p.m. at Photoworks in Glen Echo waltzes and other couple dances. All 10101 Glenolden Drive, Potomac. Park, 7300 Macarthur Blvd, Glen Contra and Square dances are taught, Groovy Nate blends music, puppet Echo. Photoworks presents the no partner necessary. Lessons at 7 skits, movement, and comedy into annual juried Youth Photography p.m., followed by the called dance one groovy experience. Children will Competition, “Listen Up!” A selection with live music at 7:30. $13 for sing, play instruments and games, of work has been collected from nonmembers, $10 for FSGW engage in creative play, and move to budding youth photographers for this members, $5 ages 17 and under. original and traditional music during year’s exhibit. The exhibit runs Aug. www.glenechopark.org, 301-634- this high energy and interactive 16-Sept. 2, Saturdays, 1-4 p.m.; 2222. show. Free. Call 240-777-0690. Sunday-Monday, 1-8 p.m. Visit Live Music & Dancing. Fridays and glenechophotoworks.org/. Saturdays, 7-11 p.m. in Margery’s THURSDAY/AUG. 30 Lounge, Normandie Farm Restaurant, TUESDAY/SEPT. 4 10710 Falls Road, Potomac. Dance to Ice Cream Social. 2:30-4 p.m. Call for the music of Barry Gurley. Call 301- location. Enjoy ice cream with fellow Read to a Dog. 4:30-5:30 p.m. at 983-8838 or visit members. Non-dairy treats will be Potomac Library, 10101 Glenolden www.popovers.com. available for those who don’t or can’t Drive, Potomac. Every first and third eat ice cream. For Potomac Tuesday of the month, school-age Community Village members only. children, especially beginners SATURDAY/AUG. 25 Call 240-221-1370, email info@ learning to read and those who want Park Potomac Ice Cream Social PotomacCommunityVillage.org or to improve their confidence in and Car Show. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at visit PotomacCommunityVillage.org. reading skills, are invited to practice 12500 Park Potomac Ave., Potomac. reading aloud in short (10-15 minute) semi-private sessions with a Ice cream, car show and family SATURDAY/SEPT. 1 activities. This is a not for profit certified therapy dog. First-come, fundraiser for Montgomery County Paint the Town. At Norfolk Avenue first-served. No registration required; School Kids In Need. Bring a facade of the Triangle Towers no younger siblings. Free. Call 240- Apartments, 4853 Cordell Ave., 777-0694. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Potomac Almanac ❖ August 22-28, 2018 ❖ 13 Newcomers & Community Guide Helping People Age in Place otomac Community Village P(PCV) is a non-profit net- work of neighbors and friends geared to enabling older Potomac residents to age in place in their existing homes by creat- ing social connections and provid- ing volunteer services, such as oc- casional transportation, computer help, simple home repairs, and friendly phone calls and visits. PCV is part of a nationwide movement of more than 500 Villages, of neighbor helping neighbor. PCV’s Fall 2018 events include a variety of programs that are free At the May 17 Potomac Community Village general and open to all. meeting, Dr. Heidi Hsai, Ph.D. speaks to members of These include a Sept. 20 pro- Potomac Community Village on “The Mind-Body Connec- gram in which actress Linda tion: Keys to Healthy Aging.” Kenyon will portray cookbook au- thor Julia Child, a Walk on the Canal on Sept. 29 as Potomac Day on Oct. 20. Upcoming member-only part of Active Aging Week in Montgomery County, a events include lunches, book discussions, an Ice program on saving money on Medigap and Medi- Cream Social, theater parties, local-area hikes, and care Prescription Drug plans on Oct. 3, a presenta- docent-led museum tours. For more information tion on Oct. 18 from the League of Women Voters, about programs, membership, volunteering or get- and a Nov. 15 talk by Matt Logan of Montgomery ting volunteer help, contact History on this organization’s role in preserving the [email protected], 240-221-1370 county’s history. PCV will also have a booth on or check out www.PotomacCommunityVillage.org. Department Is Still Making History By Peggy McEwan ing from rescues along the Potomac River and C&O The Almanac Canal to high rise fire protection in downtown Bethesda. Interstate 495 and the Clara Barton Park- n March 19, 1930, the Cabin John Park way provide accidents that may range from routine OVolunteer Fire Department began its his- fender benders to large hazardous materials incidents tory as an incorporated fire service to “con- such as the Interstate 270 Tanker Fire in the fall of trol, prevent, limit and combat damage by fire ….” 1992. Despite all of these changes, one thing has re- In January of this year, after 88 years, the depart- mained constant; the proud service of the members ment made history again by voting Corrine Piccardi of our department to our community. That single fact the first female fire chief in a volunteer company in binds our members today to the founders of our de- Montgomery County. partment in 1930,” the department’s website reads. The original CJPVFD station was built shortly af- Persons interested in becoming members of Cabin ter the department’s founding at the corner of John Park Volunteer Fire Department can call Sta- MacArthur Blvd. and Seven Locks Road. tion 10, 240-773-4710 or email “The first meeting was held at the new station in [email protected]. 1932, and this station was occupied until our present CJPVFD also hosts children’s birthday parties at the quarters on River Road [Station 10] was opened in River Road Station. Parties include: 1984,” according to the department’s website. ❖ A guided tour of the fire station and fire apparatus Station 30, 9404 Falls Road, was opened in 1970. ❖ The opportunity to get up close and personal with “Our service has changed greatly since 1930. To- firefighters and their equipment day, in addition to fire prevention, education, and ❖ A fire safety presentation and equipment dem- suppression activities, we also are the primary care onstration hosted by one of the firefighters providers of emergency medical services, river res- ❖ A fire safety gift-bag and fire helmet for each cue services, and heavy rescue. The unique nature child in attendance. of our area gives us many diverse operations, rang- For more information, call 301-365-2028. Promoting Businesses, Community From Page 5 Chamber, said in an interview last year. “There is a of an organization that provides networking oppor- solid foundation in Potomac,” she said. “It’s nice to tunities, business leads and referrals, proactive be able to go into a little town and know it.” leadershipºand an improved business climate, all for Complaints from residents are few, as are problems the betterment of the community as a whole,” ac- other than parking in the shopping centers at the in- cording to the chamber website. tersection of River and Falls roads, she said last year. The chamber organizes the annual Potomac Day Still it’s nice to have a community with so few prob- celebration each fall. The day includes a parade, lems she said. children’s festival and petting zoo, business fair and “Everything is so fast paced in this world,” she said. car show. Potomac Day will be held Saturday, Oct. “You feel good here.” The Potomac Chamber of Com- 20 this year, celebrating the 36th anniversary of the merce offices are at 10220 River Road. annual celebration. Hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Potomac still has the feel of a small town, Jenni- closed on all major holidays. fer Matheson, director of operations for the Potomac For more information, visit PotomacChamber.org. 14 ❖ Potomac Almanac ❖ August 22-28, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Newcomers & Community Guide When Did This Happen? A River, a Canal, and a Vision By KENNETH B. LOURIE From Page 15 lage and Rockville were developed for hous- I remember conversations regularly occurring carrying mostly coal. But it was not to last. ing. The first vicinity plan for Potomac/ between me and some other person, presum- By the 1880s, railroads had taken the lead Travilah was adopted in 1967. It was de- ably older (if heard over the phone) or in person in transporting goods, and they could carry signed to preserve the rural-residential char- if my sight and senses didn’t deceive me, where coal to the deeper harbor in Baltimore. acter with open space and low density zon- the question was asked to me: “You’re probably too young to remember?” concerning any num- In June of 1889, a devastating flood tore ing. It recommended creating several ber of subjects. Now, I’m asking the identical through the Potomac River valley. The de- stream valley parks. question, and I don’t think my sight or senses struction far exceeded any ability of the In 1980, a Potomac Subregion Plan was are deceiving me, though they are refracted, so canal company to borrow for repairs. Ca- adopted. Most recently revised in 2002, the to speak. nal boats, lockhouses and the vital infra- current plan consistently upholds and ex- Somehow, I’d like to believe that despite the obvious passage of time, I am, to quote Bob structure itself had been swept into the river. pands our environmental framework with Dylan from his song “My Back Pages,” includ- The canal lay idle all summer and fall of an imperative to protect and enhance natu- ed on his “Another Side of Bob Dylan” album 1889 and didn’t operate at all in 1890. Then ral resources. released in 1964: “Ah, but I was so much older came a savior in the form of the B&O Rail- Our subregion is considered a transition then, I’m younger than that now.” road which took over and operated the ca- between the urban down county and the I wish. I may be wiser and full of perspective, but nal into the early 1920s even as profits di- 93,000 acre Agricultural Reserve to our KLZWP[LÅV^LY`S`YPJZ0HTVSKLY¶Q\Z[JOLJR minished. Gradually, it declined and only a north. We are one of two residential “green [OLJHSLUKHY-H[OLY[PTL^HP[ZMVYUVTHU¶VY lower portion was kept watered; just wedges” in the county. Both are critical to woman. As years pass, the pages turn and you enough to supply water to mills in protecting public water supplies. Designat- simply aren’t the person you used to be (or Georgetown. ing many of our stream valleys as county thought you were). It was 1926 when the idea of a Federal parkland helps preserve the wetlands and Benjamin Button may have gotten younger (aged in reverse, having been born an old man), highway on the canal right-of-way was first forests needed to filter stormwater runoff but for the rest of us, we may feel that “youth,” raised but B&O Railway opposed it. The and provide habitat for wildlife. The water as they say, “is wasted on the young.” Neverthe- Great Depression changed the conversation filtration plant on River Road provides less, none of us is getting any younger. because President Franklin Roosevelt had nearly all drinking water to Montgomery Moreover, to quote Charles Franklin: “No an uncle who was chairman of the National County. All 68 square miles of the Potomac one gets out of this life alive.” (Although, I swear I remember my late mother attributing Capital Park and Planning Commission. He Subregion drain to the Potomac River. The that quote to the legendary screen actress, Bette wanted a project for the Civilian Conserva- Watts Branch begins in Rockville but emp- Davis.) tion Corps. B&O owed money and wanted ties into the Potomac just upstream of the Life goes on is the short version, and through to borrow further so the Federal govern- filtration plant. that passage of time, at some point, apparently ment was able to purchase the canal for $2 Today, more than ever before, our lives you’re addressed respectively as “Mister” and “Sir,” and doors are opened/held, seats are million in 1938. Work started and the first are bound to waters of the Potomac. We are offered and accommodations made. And when I 20 miles was restored. World War II and a fortunate that in 1954, Supreme Court Jus- have those random conversations with strang- devastating flood in 1942 washed away the tice William O. Douglas penned his famous LYZ¶[VWHZZ[OH[[PTLVYL]LU^P[OWLVWSL^P[O restoration. When the war ended, the Army letter to the Washington Post after they had whom you have a familiarity, more and more of Corps of Engineers unveiled a plan to build endorsed the highway plan, inviting them [OVZLWLVWSLHYL`V\UNLY[OHU0HTHUK0ÄUK a series of 14 dams to control river flood- myself asking/presuming if they know what past to join him on a walking tour of the tow- event, historical fact, popular culture reference ing. One, proposed for just above Great Falls path — starting the movement to preserve or sports memory, etc., I am even referring to. would have flooded the river valley and it. Parkways and dam ideas still surfaced And as often as not, they don’t. backed up the Potomac nearly to Harpers but in January 1971, The C&O Canal was >OH[»ZVKK¶VYSVZ[VUTLILJH\ZL0»T Ferry. Along came another proposal for a designated a National Historical Park. We loathe to admit it, is that the former “question- parkway similar to Skyline Drive. are fortunate. Geology, history, good plan- LL¹¶`V\YZ[Y\S`¶OHZILJVTL[OLJ\YYLU[ X\LZ[PVULY¶HNHPU`V\YZ[Y\S`(ZPZILJVTPUN Meanwhile, Potomac had remained a ning and some visionary people make it abundant clear, where I was once ascending, I small village reached by dirt roads, initially possible for us to experience history. We can am now descending. known as Offutts Crossroads. After World walk or bike to Cumberland or Georgetown This has nothing to do with my last few War II a new breed of settlers began to ar- on the towpath. We can kayak and canoe. cancer columns. It has to do with my birth year: rive. They wanted to get out of the city, raise We can visit the Great Falls; the remains of 1954. Meaning, as the birthday card jokes on the front cover “I wouldn’t say you were old this children in the country and were willing to a red sandstone quarry at Seneca and ride year” to the inside-of-the-card slam: “Hell, you put up with inconveniences like lack of elec- a canal boat drawn by mules. We have ac- were old last year.” tricity and roads still little more than wagon cess to endless trails in an array of parks. It just seems/feels that this juxtaposition of tracks. The land was exhausted by farming. American poet Mary Oliver once wrote “A the “space-time continuum” (“Star Trek: Voyag- The area had flirted with gold mining after lifetime isn’t long enough for the beauty of er”) time/age relative to others has happened in the Civil War. Land was inexpensive. The a blink (nanosecond) and that blink is a tell. And this world.” We are fortunate to live within no matter what I do to counter that impression, forests, once cleared for farming, were re- so much of that beauty and call it home. I can’t stop it. It seems that tell has become a turning along stream valleys leading to the Ginny Barnes is an artist, environmental activist, tell all. river. Potomac was green, open and appeal- and sometime writer. She served on the 2002 Mas- And since I’m telling all, dealing with one’s ter Plan Advisory Group and is currently ing to courageous newcomers. There were own mortality for as long as I have been: Feb. Environmental Chair and President of the West [OLVMÄJPHSKH[LVMT`UVUZTHSS still farms and orchards but during the Montgomery County Citizens Association (WMCCA) cell lung cancer diagnosis, has certainly had which was founded in 1947. 1950s and ‘60s many between Potomac Vil- its share of wear and tear, emotionally and physically. -VYTL¶VYMVYHU`VM`V\YLN\SHYYLHKLYZ to think that this unexpected journey has not been fraught with before, during and after side LMMLJ[Z¶HUKTHPULMMLJ[Z\WHUKKV^UHUKHSS around, is unrealistic at best and delusional at worst. And since I’m rarely delusional except when it comes to the Boston Red Sox, it must be
Photo by Jill Phillips A beaver unrealistic. at Great But maybe being unrealistic is what has Falls taken me nine years and nearly six months past my original diagnosis. If that’s the reason, I see no reason to change now, age notwithstanding, or sitting, however the case may be.
Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Potomac Almanac ❖ August 22-28, 2018 ❖ 15 16 ❖ Potomac Almanac ❖ August 22-28, 2018 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com