Stories for May 2012

Humane Group Showcases County K-9’s

Dogs are cross-trained for patrol and drugs.

Friends of Montgomery County Animals (FMCA), a humane non-profit established in 1974, held its annual spring luncheon meeting on May 15 at the Potomac home of FMCA president Claire Proffitt. Nestled on 5 acres in a woodland setting where a variety of wildlife are wont to roam, Proffitt’s home welcomed more than 60 animal lovers including two police officers with their four-legged colleagues assigned to the Canine Section of the Montgomery County Police Department’s Special Operations Division.

Potomac Calendar May 30

To have community events listed free in The Potomac Almanac, send e-mail to almanac@connectionnewspapers.com. Deadline is Thursday at noon for the following week’s paper. Photos and artwork encouraged. Call 703-778-9412.

How To Beat the Heat in and around Potomac

Some advice on finding cool activities.

All of a sudden, summer has arrived. Who knew it would be 95 degrees on Memorial Day —†and the possibility that it will be over 100 by July 4? Here’s some ways to spend some lazy summer afternoons with your family — and not succumb to those high temperatures. Most of these “escape the heat” ideas are very near downtown Potomac.

‘Foodies and the Beast:’ Live at Founding Farmers

Chefs share their specialties.

Founding Farmers Restaurant in Park Potomac was the place to be on Sunday, May 20. The Park Potomac restaurant was the scene for “Foodie and the Beast,” the food and wine variety show hosted by Nycci and David Nellis on Federal News Radio 1500AM. The sold-out venue featured brunch, interviews with well-known chefs, a discussion with a local butcher about carving lamb, a drink-mixing lesson from Jon Arroyo, mixologist for Founding Farmers and more.

It’s Vehicle Day

The Greenzaid Early Childhood Center of B’nai Tzedek held its annual Vehicle Day on May 16. The children, ages 2-5, had the thrill of hands-on learning and animated discussions with each of the vehicle’s operators. They climbed through, pretended to drive and honked a lot of horns of the fire engine, ambulance, cherry-picker, school bus, trash truck, SUV and police car. The day was topped off by an ice-cream treat from the Good Humor ice cream truck.

Concert Honors Cantor’s 10th Year at Synagogue

Congregation B’nai Tzedek of Potomac held its Annual GALA, “Bima to Broadway,” on Saturday, May 12, in honor of Cantor Marshall Kapell’s 10th anniversary at the synagogue. With more than 300 in attendance, Kapell, joined by two other cantors, Elisheva Dienstfrey, from Agudas Achim in Alexandria and Josh Perlman, from B’nai Israel in Rockville, gave a concert featuring a selection of Broadway songs and some modern Jewish liturgical music. It was followed by a Grande After-Party, with DJ Julian from New York Entertainment, desserts, an open bar and dancing.

Raising Awareness

Troop #4741, a fifth-grade Junior troop from Bells Mill Elementary School, earned its Bronze Award by raising awareness of endangered species at an Art Night at VisArts in Rockville on Monday, May 7. The Bronze Award is the highest award given to junior troops. The girls worked together for two months to select their project, learn about different animals on the endangered species list, and create an original work of art and an informational paper on endangered animals. The girls presented their work at an ArtNight planned and run by the girls. The girls targeted adults for their outreach efforts as they believe that fewer adults are aware of or care about endangered animals.

Commitment to Child Safety

Snyder's support extends to national center.

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, a mixed private-government organization headquartered in Alexandria, Va., has the support of Redskins owner Daniel Snyder.

Safety Advice

The boat ramp into Seneca Creek at Riley's Lock is the the busiest boat ramp in Montgomery County, and on Memorial Day, a steady stream of people with motor boats, jet skis, canoes and kayaks used the ramp to begin their outings on the Potomac River. Corporal Daniel Yankie of the Maryland Natural Resources Police took the early season opportunity to remind boaters about wearing personal floatation devices (PFDs) and other safety measures. He checked registrations and chatted with boaters coming out of the water on Monday evening, May 28, writing a few citations and warnings. Yankie noted that the stretch of the Potomac River in Montgomery County that runs south of Blockhouse Point is the most dangerous area along the river, with the most drownings. The river northwest of Riley's Lock is calm and flat. The resources police also look for boaters who might be impaired from drinking during their excursions on the river. For more information on water trails, the location of boat ramps and boating regulations in Maryland, see http://www.dnr.state.md.us/boating.

Crowd Savors Strawberry Festival

Potomac United Methodist Church’s signature fundraising event supports charities.

There were strawberries a plenty in Potomac recently when the Potomac United Methodist Church held its 22nd annual Strawberry Festival.

Potomac Real Estate: Sales for April 2012, $1million~ $1.18million

In April 2012, 248 Arlington homes sold between $3,100,000-$70,000.

Potomac Real Estate: Sales for April 2012, $1million~ $1.18million

Out of the Ashes

Award-winning master carver and sculptor turns charred tree stump in to work of art.

A local wizard used his powers of transformation at a Potomac school recently.

Heights School Men’s Chorus Releases CD

Ensemble recorded the music at St. Peter’s Church in Vienna.

The Heights School Men’s Chorus released its latest CD earlier this month. Their recording, “Sing dem Herrn” (Sing to the Lord), is a collection of traditional men’s choral music performed a cappella.

‘Growing up with Sarge’

Field Notes

“For most of my life, it was enough for me to feed off his energy — he carried all of us on his wave. He kept us believing; he kept us hopeful. When he walked into a room, you just felt better. You felt ready for the day.” — from “A Good Man,” by Mark Shriver.

Community Services Budget Under Scrutiny

$8 Million budget hole threatens programs, public review underway.

The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board, which provides social services to thousands of the county’s most vulnerable residents and has come under fire for an $8 million budget shortfall, was given a temporary reprieve by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors.

Greeting New ‘Fellow Americans’

Fairfax County hosts fourth annual naturalization ceremony.

"My fellow Americans," U.S. Rep Gerry Connolly (D-11) said with gravitas, pausing to let the meaning sink in. And when it did, 75 immigrants - from Afghanistan to Uzbekistan - who had just raised their right hand and taken the Oath of Allegiance to become American citizens, erupted with applause and tears, waving American flags and hugging family members. They were gathered at the Fairfax County Government Center Friday, May 25, for the county’s fourth annual naturalization ceremony.

Editorial: Surviving through Summer

Helping teens.

It is that time again, the time from proms to graduation, and all the celebrations that come with it. It's lovely to think, from a distance, that this is a happy and uncomplicated time for teens as the school year winds down, many look forward to college in the fall and a summer of internships or other interesting activities.

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Column: Off Topic, Almost

If only it were that simple. And as much I’d like to turn the cancer switch off, finding that switch has proven to be extremely challenging.

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‘Reel Tributes’ Preserves Family Histories

Founder David Adelman believes that “Memories Matter.”

Most of us would like to leave a legacy of the history of our family — and of our personal lives for our children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren — and into perpetuity. However, many never record their personal histories, let alone that of their families. The research, interviews, writing and organization are just too overwhelming, confusing and time-consuming. But now, a company called “Reel Tributes” will help with the planning and implementation — and will make certain the project is completed in a professional manner with a meaningful result — a video documenting the history, genealogy and special memories of a family or a family business.

Washington Folk Festival Is June 2-3

The 32nd Annual Washington Folk Festival will be held on June 2-3 at Glen Echo Park in Glen Echo. From noon to 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, the festival will showcase more than 450 of the finest traditional American and international musicians, storytellers, dancers, and crafters who make their home in the greater Washington area. The festival is free to the public and held rain or shine.

Potomac Calendar May 23

To have community events listed free in The Potomac Almanac, send e-mail to almanac@connectionnewspapers.com. Deadline is Thursday at noon for the following week’s paper. Photos and artwork encouraged. Call 703-778-9412.

Private Gardens of Bethesda on June 2

Garden Tour. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit some of the most fabulous private gardens in the Bethesda and Chevy Chase area at the height of the gardening season. Join Brookside Gardens for its second annual private garden tour for your only opportunity to visit several extraordinary, designer showcase properties — guaranteed to provide inspiration to the most avid gardeners and designers as well as garden hobbyists. Pre-register through www.ParkPASS.org. Visit one garden for $5, course # 202399, three for $15, course #202400 or all eight of the gardens for $20, course # 202401 on this exclusive tour, including one designed by Oehme van Sweden & Associates. Visit www.brooksidegardens.org or call 301-962-1402. Check-in location is McCrillis Gardens, 6910 Greentree Road, Bethesda.

Muslim Foundation Picnic Honors Volunteers

Organization receives “Exceptional Partner Award.”

More than 350 people gathered at Black Hill Regional Park to honor Montgomery County Muslim Foundation volunteers and to celebrate their “2012 Exceptional Partner Award,” presented by Giant Foods and Manna. County Executive Isaiah Leggett, County Councilmember George Leventhal, County Councilmember Nancy Floreen, Councilmember Phil Andrews and Kevin Gillogly, with U.S. Sen. Ben Cardin’s office, each praised the MCMF for their work and the difference the non-profit organization is making throughout Montgomery County.

Caregivers for Wounded Warriors Honored

“This country cares about you. We take pride in you and support you. You each have an inner strength which carries you through difficult times.” These words spoken by keynote speaker Annie McChrystal, wife of U.S. Army General (Ret) Stanley McChrystal, describe the emotion in the air at the second luncheon to honor caregivers of our injured servicemen and women.

Miriam Ostria Launches Biz Sports & Leagues

Encouraging fitness for companies’ employees.

Potomac resident Miriam Ostria has a vision that will change the Washington workplace — and improve the health, fitness, weight management and wellness of residents in the D.C. environs while promoting sports. She has just recently embarked on a mission with her new company Biz Sports & Leagues, LLC: "I want organized sports activities to be incorporated into every company’s wellness program as another form of intervention and Biz Sports & Leagues to be the driver of this process."

Young Writers’ Celebration

On May 16, the children, ages 3 and pre-K, from B’nai Tzedek’s Greenzaid Early Childhood Center displayed to their parents and relatives, the books and poems they created this year as part of the Center’s Literacy Program. Guest author Rabbi Deborah Bodin Cohen read and signed her popular children’s books.

Lois Williams Praised

Community activist lauded for service to Potomac.

A long-time Potomac resident, community activist and volunteer was honored for her altruistic efforts recently. The West Montgomery County Citizens’ Association praised Lois Williams during a ceremony at the Potomac Community Center earlier this month.

Garlic Mustard Challenge

Invasive plant threatens forest understory, bird habitat.

The invasive garlic mustard plant has advanced rapidly into the C&O Canal National Historical Park and endangers the ecology of native plants and animals.

Builder/Remodelers’ Advice on Handling Exterior Rot

Although it may be an unappealing subject to address, we Marylanders must acknowledge our mid-Atlantic location to be a perfect setting for fungus, mold, mildew, and rot, not to mention insect infestation. This is one aspect of the natural world we live in.

Bulldogs Boys’ Lax Ends Season at State Semifinals

Churchill falls to Westminster, 14-10.

While Churchill experienced emotional high and lows, the Bulldogs are hoping the 2012 season acts as a foundation for a formidable future.

Churchill Girls’ Lax More Competitive at State Level

Bulldogs capture third consecutive region championship.

After winning a third consecutive 4A/3A West Region championship, the Churchill girls’ lacrosse team once again fell short in the state semifinals. This time, however, a more competitive contest gave the Bulldogs reason to believe they’re improving.

Whitman Baseball Falls Short

Vikings lost to Northwest in extra innings in region final.

Northwest defeated Whitman, 5-3, in eight innings on May 18 in Bethesda to earn the 4A West crown.

Governor Signs Voter ID Bills

McDonnell directs state to send every voter a new voter card before Election Day.

Gov. Robert McDonnell (R) signed watered-down versions of Virginia’s Republican-backed voter identification bills on Friday, adding the Commonwealth to the growing list of states adopting stricter voting standards.

Editorial: Remembering on Memorial Day

Time to honor, also time to ensure proper care of veterans.

In February, Brig. Gen. Terence J. Hildner, 49, of Fairfax, was the highest ranking military officer to die in the war on terror.

Column: Living Longer, Sort of Prospering

Though my column has appeared in the newspaper as usual the last few weeks, I haven’t felt much like writing. Typically, I’m weeks ahead with my column inventory, having regularly found the time and inclination to put pen to paper and provide the prose you regular readers have come to expect.

Potomac Real Estate: Sales $649,000~ $718,000 in March 2012

In March 2012, 38 Potomac homes sold between $2,710,000-$253,000.

Potomac Real Estate: Sales $649,000~ $718,000 in March 2012

Students Honored for Artistic Talent

Students at Potomac's St. Andrew's Episcopal School receive visual arts awards

Local budding artists were honored for their talent recently when St. Andrew's Episcopal School handed out accolades to more than 50 middle and upper school students at the school's annual Visual Arts Awards assembly in Potomac, Md.

Strawberry Festival Caters to Young and Old

It’s more than dessert.

For 22 years, huge, ripe delicious strawberries served over Judith Dubowy’s homemade shortcake with her hand-whipped cream have been a highlight of the Potomac United Methodist Church Strawberry Festival. A long line always forms to devour Becky Queen’s hand-dipped chocolate-covered strawberries. But there is more to the festival than just the strawberry desserts. The community awaits this spring festival every year to see what treasures they can find for each member of their families. It’s a neighborhood event which attracts more than 1,200 people from Potomac’s environs and beyond.

Entrepreneurs Find Inspiration at Potomac luncheon

“What do you see when you look at me?” asked a barefoot, seemingly intoxicated woman wearing an overcoat and sporting a wool cap as she addressed a crowd of about 200 Potomac-area entrepreneurs.

Filling in That ‘Gap’ Year

Kindergarten class at Temple Beth Ami addresses need for smaller classroom setting.

What to do if a five-year-old is not ready to leave nursery school to attend a larger public or private school kindergarten class? Some children are emotionally not ready to move on to a kindergarten class of 20 or more students in a K – 5 elementary school. If a child is immature, timid, has difficulty paying attention, does not feel comfortable socializing or is simply not ready to tackle the kindergarten curriculum, then a solution is to enroll him or her in a smaller kindergarten program which allows for one more year in a more intimate, supportive environment. This is also a program for students whose birth dates make them the youngest in their class.

Stop and Go: Increasing Pedestrian Safety

County initiative reduces injuries.

Pedestrian collisions continue to decrease in Montgomery County, according to a statistical review presented Monday, May 14 on the County Executive’s pedestrian safety initiative.

Churchill Named Best Public High School in State

U.S. News and World Report ranks Potomac school number one in Maryland

U.S. News and World Report has named Potomac's Winston Churchill High School the best high school in the state of Maryland, and 57th in the nation.

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Potomac Schools May 16

To have an item listed mail to almanac@connectionnewspapers.com. Deadline is Thursday at noon for the following week’s paper. Call 703-778-9412.

Potomac Fine Arts May 16

May 26 to May 28 First Exhibit: Recent Paintings by Jonathan Ege and Rosanne Grolman. Opening Reception: Saturday, May 26 from 4-6 p.m. Gallery hours: Saturday 12-6 p.m., Sunday and Monday 12-5 p.m. At the Yellow Barn Studio and Gallery, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo.

Carousel Concerts at Glen Echo Park

Just like a carousel, music makes the world go ‘round! Enjoy Saturday afternoons at the Washington Conservatory in Glen Echo Park as we merrily go ‘round the families of musical instruments.

Potomac Calendar May 16

To have community events listed free in The Potomac Almanac, send e-mail to almanac@connectionnewspapers.com. Deadline is Thursday at noon for the following week’s paper. Photos and artwork encouraged. Call 703-778-9412.

June 3 Triathlon Benefits Autism Speaks

Sign up now, only 100 participants will be registered.

Ever wanted to compete in a triathlon, but were afraid to commit for fear of not being experienced enough? Now is the time to rev up one’s training because “Tri to Listen” — a June 3 triathlon is right around the corner — literally. The race will take place in Poolesville — a 20-minute drive from Potomac. The triathlon, “powered by Autism Speaks” is an opportunity for both novice and veteran tri-athletes to compete in a near-by event that offers a small field, a pool swim (versus a river, lake or bay swim), and beautiful scenery.

Brendan James Healy, 4, Dies

Brendan James Healy, age 4, of Potomac, died suddenly on Sunday, May 13, 2012. Beloved son of Dr. Edward and Colleen Healy; brother of Sean and Declan Healy; grandson of William and Patricia Caine and John and Michelina Healy; nephew of Bill Caine, Brian and Cristin Caine.

Landon Hosts Azalea Garden Festival on May 5

Over the course of a weekend, guests at the 59th Annual Azalea Garden Festival at Landon School were invited to take part in a variety of events including shopping at the specialty boutiques, touring the "of Landon, by Landon" art exhibit, and viewing the musical performances on Miniter Quad.

School Named for Flora Singer

Teacher, holocaust survivor, author, Potomac resident died in 2009.

The Montgomery Board of Education will name a public elementary school after the late Flora M. Singer, a Holocaust survivor, Potomac resident and former teacher at Cabin John Middle and Winston Churchill, Albert Einstein and Walt Whitman high schools.

Help Save Organic Farm

On Wednesday, May 30 at 5 p.m., there will be a press conference and rally to save Brickyard Educational Farm and Nick's Organic Farm on Brickyard Road from being bulldozed and turned into parking lots and soccer fields as approved by the county executive.

Potomac Library to Close Nine Days for Building Upgrades

The Potomac Library, 10101 Glenolden Drive, will be closed temporarily to walk-in and telephone customers from Thursday, May 24, through 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 2. During the closure, the building will undergo interior and exterior painting and installation of new carpeting.

Opening Doors for People in Need

FACETS celebrates volunteers, donors at annual benefit breakfast.

Surrounded by nearly 350 business executives, politicians and community leaders in the chandeliered ballroom of the Waterford, Frank Somers - dressed in jeans, sneakers and a denim work shirt - looked a little out of place.

Landon Hosts Azalea Garden Festival

Over the course of a weekend, guests at the 59th Annual Azalea Garden Festival at Landon School were invited to take part in a variety of events including shopping at the specialty boutiques, touring the "of Landon, by Landon" art exhibit, and viewing the musical performances on Miniter Quad.

Tiger Trot for Health

The Connelly School of the Holy Child hosted the Tiger Trot race on April 15.

Churchill Boys’ Lax Ends Wootton’s 6-Year Stranglehold

Bulldogs beat Patriots, advance to region championship game.

Churchill defeated Wootton, 9-6, in the 4A/3A West Region semifinals on Monday, May 14, ending the Patriots’ six-year run as region champion.

Churchill Girls’ Lax Reaches 4th Consecutive Region Final

Flax scores 7 goals, Bulldogs beat Blake in semifinal shootout.

Churchill’s path to a fourth consecutive region final appearance hasn’t been easy, but the Bulldogs completed the task with a 21-16 victory over the Bengals on May 14.

Game On

George Mason University students develop video games aimed at curtailing gang recruitment in Virginia.

Law enforcement officials now have two unlikely weapons in the fight against gang activity in Virginia: video games and college students.

Editorial: Most Endangered?

Potomac River has made great strides, has miles to go to save the Bay.

Unless your home is served by well water, you are almost certainly among the five million people in the Washington Metropolitan area who get their drinking water from the Potomac River.

Column: “Psycho-not-so-matic” Anymore

Whatever I thought was only happening in my head – or not, or was really happening physically – or not, is the muddled description of the thoughts and emotions that this cancer survivor/cancer patient-still-receiving-treatment feels every time I make a 24/7 self assessment (which is often).

Potomac Real Estate: Sales $750,000~ $815,000 in March 2012

In March 2012, 38 Potomac homes sold between $2,710,000-$253,000.

Potomac Real Estate: Sales $750,000 ~ $815,000 in March 2012

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Fine Arts for May 9

June 5 to July 7 From My Perspective. Abstract Paintings by Audrey Salkind and New Work by Gallery Artists. Meet the Artist: Saturdays, June 9, 16, 23; from 2–4 p.m. Artist's reception is Friday, June 8 from 6 to 9 p.m. At the Waverly Street Gallery, 4600 East-West Highway, Bethesda. Call 301-951-9441 or visit waverlystreetgallery.com.

Potomac Calendar May 8

To have community events listed free in The Potomac Almanac, send e-mail to almanac@connectionnewspapers.com. Deadline is Thursday at noon for the following week’s paper. Photos and artwork encouraged. Call 703-778-9412.

Bethesda Fine Arts Returns May 12 & 13

The Bethesda Urban Partnership and the Bethesda Arts & Entertainment District announce the ninth annual Bethesda Fine Arts Festival, a two-day event highlighting 140 contemporary artists who will sell their original fine art and fine craft. The festival is scheduled for Saturday, May 12 from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday, May 13, from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Ahmad Receives Neal Potter Award

Service projects of Muslim Foundation recognized.

Almost everyone can remember their feelings, thoughts and where they were on Sept. 11, 2001. For Tufall Ahmad, an American Muslim living in Potomac, “on Sept. 11, 2001, everything changed. I realized the need for Muslim Americans to redefine their identity. 9/11 opened my eyes to where we are living, and how the U.S. has given us everything.”

Steeplechase Race Marks 60th Year

Event will benefit Yellow Ribbon Fund.

On May 20, the horses will be ready and waiting for the flag to drop, racing fans will be lining the track, tailgating and enjoying catered feasts, and the rails will be filled with young and old — waiting to hear the sounds of hooves and see the brilliant jerseys flash by in the 60th Potomac Hunt Steeplechase Race.

Anthony Wilder Design/Build Unveils Fire Truck Playhouse

Project spotlights work of Rebuilding Together.

The crowd impatiently waited for the orange cover to be removed, then cheered as they grasped the full impact of the fire truck playhouse. The imaginative 10-foot high fire truck immediately captivated every child and adult at the presentation at the Anthony Wilder Design/Build (AWDB) offices in Cabin John.

‘Bullis Gives Back’ 5K/2.5K Fun-Run Will Benefit Charities

Course adjusts to school’s new acreage.

The “Bulllis Gives Back” 4th annual 5K/2.5K Fun Run will have a new look this year. The course will incorporate Bullis’ recently purchased acreage — and the pre-race will include a greater focus on health and exercise. Last year, more than 400 students, faculty and community members ran the distance — and the organizers are expecting more than 500 to take off when the starting gun sounds this year.

Har Shalom Hosts 2012 Potomac Spring House Tour

Proceeds to benefit variety of charities.

It’s time for the annual 2012 Potomac Spring House Tour hosted by Har Shalom — an opportunity to stroll through five of the most elegant and exquisite homes in Potomac and Bethesda. This show features five homes that offer the tour guests a chance to view gardens, furnishings, antiques and art. It is an opportunity to view trends in decorating, architecture and landscape design.

Local Filmmaker

The film, "The Rendezvous" is a 12-minute thriller written and directed by Potomac filmmaker Stephen Smith and produced by his partner and wife Janine Shore. The film centers on a beautiful woman who convinces her greed-driven lover to engage in a risky plan, which involves stealing an extremely valuable object from her husband, selling the object from the highest bidder, and running off to live the good life. However, the plan doesn't go quite as well as expected, and in this case, it leads to a startling outcome. (To see a trailer of the film, visit www.stephensmithfilms.com). The filmmakers hosted a screening of the film at the AFI Theater in Silver Spring, on April 20.

Visiting with Horses

Families enjoyed Potomac Horse Center Open House and North Potomac Community Day on Sunday, May 6 with hayrides, free horse and pony rides for children, barn tours, and horseback riding demonstrations, personalized horseshoes, moon bounce and more. The free event was held at the Potomac Horse Center, 14211 Quince Orchard Road, North Potomac.

Presidential Visit to Washington-Lee

President Barack Obama made his first visit to Washington-Lee High School on Friday, May 4.

Potomac Real Estate: Top Sales in March 2012

In March 2012, 38 Potomac homes sold between $2,710,000-$253,000.

Potomac Real Estate: Top Sales in March 2012

Steeplechase Race Marks 60th Year

Event will benefit Yellow Ribbon Fund.

On May 20, the horses will be ready and waiting for the flag to drop, racing fans will be lining the track, tailgating and enjoying catered feasts, and the rails will be filled with young and old — waiting to hear the sounds of hooves and see the brilliant jerseys flash by in the 60th Potomac Hunt Steeplechase Race.

‘A Night in Paris’ at Walt Whitman

The Walt Whitman Fashion Show, "A Night in Paris," took place on Friday, May 4 in the school's auditorium.

Churchill Boys’ Lax Storms Back Against Watkins Mill

Bulldogs enter postseason as top seed in 4A/3A West.

While things started poorly for the Churchill boys' lacrosse team, the Bulldogs ended their regular season finale game playing like a No. 1 seed.

Churchill Girls’ Lax Enters Playoffs as No. 2 Seed

Bulldogs beat Watkins Mill in regular season finale.

With leading scorer Mairin Hall sidelined due to illness, the Churchill girls’ lacrosse team closed the regular season with a 17-7 victory against Watkins Mill on May 7 in Montgomery Village. While the Bulldogs still had more than enough to get past the Wolverines, Churchill wasn’t so fortunate against Quince Orchard three days earlier.

Wootton’s Keenen Has Big Day in Defeat

Brett Keenen finished 3 for 4 with a home run, a double to the fence in left-center and four RBIs, but struggles on the mound and five fielding errors doomed the Patriots.

The Best Seats Outside the House

Local designers offer tips for creating a spectacular patio or deck.

Warm weather means more time spent lounging by the pool or grilling on the patio. A winter-worn outdoor space can make popular warm weather pastimes less than appealing. Creating a space that provides both comfort and style can be a daunting undertaking. Local designers are offering suggestions for creating a luxurious retreat fit for relaxing or outdoor entertaining.

Housing Discrimination Alert

Officials step up education, outreach efforts to reach immigrant communities about "fair housing" rights.

Housing discrimination cases have been on the rise in Fairfax County in the past few years. And the Office of Human Rights and Equity Programs (OHREP), the agency that enforces fair housing laws in the county, is shining a spotlight on the problem through seminars for housing providers, realtors, community groups and other interested parties. "Sadly, housing discrimination is alive and well and we’ve seen an uptick in complaints during the past six years," said Kenneth Saunders, executive director of OHREP.

Editorial: Transparency, Technology and Tolls

With E-Z Pass transponder on the windshield, you should know what you're about to pay; whatever it is, it's going up.

Despite the high number of drivers in Northern Virginia who already have an E-Z Pass transponder, when the HOT-Lanes open on the Beltway, there will be pressure for many more drivers to subscribe.

Column: “I’m Fine”

Mostly. All things considered, and as a stage IV (terminal) lung cancer patient, it’s impossible – for me, to not consider all things.

Holy Child Equestrians Win Championship

Sarah Holladay wins CASEY Award.

Potomac has a long history of equestrian triumphs — and Holy Child is living proof that history can repeat. The young women of the HC Junior Varsity squad have captured the prestigious championship of the Inter-School Horse Show Series (ISHS) for 2012.

Potomac Fine Arts May 3

May 26 to May 28 First Exhibit: Recent Paintings by Jonathan Ege and Rosanne Grolman. Opening Reception: Saturday, May 26 from 4-6 p.m. Gallery hours: Saturday 12-6 p.m., Sunday and Monday 12-5 p.m. At the Yellow Barn Studio and Gallery, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo.

Potomac Calendar May 3

To have community events listed free in The Potomac Almanac, send e-mail to almanac@connectionnewspapers.com. Deadline is Thursday at noon for the following week’s paper. Photos and artwork encouraged. Call 703-778-9412.

Get Ready for Grateful Shred on May 19

Spring cleaning! With tax season over, it's a great time to get together those boxes and files of outdated records. Clear them out of the basement, home office, attic or wherever else they have been lurking for too long.

Police Investigate Armed Robberies

Detectives from the Montgomery County Police Major Crimes Division - Robbery Section are continuing to investigate two incidents in North Potomac that are believed to be related. In both incidents, vehicles were struck from behind by another vehicle while the victims were driving their vehicles on Jones Lane.

A Service Dog for Saij

"Service Dog Awareness Day” is planned at Potomac Village Starbucks.

Saij Singh’s service dog, a black lab named Saffy became his new best friend just a few months ago. Saffy (short for Sapphire) wakes him up every morning with kisses and cuddles. She turns on lights, opens doors and watches over him. She even picks up his Wii game remote and returns it to his lap. When he arrives home from school, she bounds toward the bus with her tail wagging, ready to greet him with excited leaps and playful barking — but she is also aware that it is time for her job to begin.

‘Babes in Arms’ at McLean School This Weekend

Pop standards such as “My Funny Valentine,” “The Lady is a Tramp,” “Johnny One-Note” and “I Wish I Were in Love Again” will be bursting from the McLean School as “Babes in Arms” hits the stage on May 4 and May 5. The 1937 musical tells the tale of a young man who decides to put on a show with his friends to avoid being sent to a work farm. Even though the play displays a life far different from life in Potomac in 2012, the 75-year-old Diamond Anniversary show has universal themes and numerous familiar tunes. The play will be performed at 7 p.m. at the McLean School, 8224 Lochinver Lane, Potomac. Tickets are $10 at the door.

‘Dramatic Increase’ in Autism

Expert helps Churchill close out “Autism Awareness” month.

“More children are diagnosed each year with autism than with type 1 diabetes, childhood cancer and cystic fibrosis combined. The U.S. Government spends $126 billion on autism each year — and it will only go up because we must provide housing, employment, education, healthcare and community services for each autistic person.”

Cleaning Up

Washington Episcopal School in Bethesda held its annual all-school Community Service Day to give back to the community. Each student and faculty member, as well as parent volunteers, participated in this special day that benefited many organizations and individuals in the area, including Bethesda Cares, Samaritan Ministries, Cabin John Fire Department, hospitalized children, and the Humane Society. Students from the school also collected trash and debris from their adopted highway, Little Falls Parkway, along with Little Falls Creek, and the Capital Crescent Trail. Above, WES eighth-graders clean-up trash and debris on Little Falls Parkway in Bethesda. From left are Richard Royle, Annie Steckler and Sydney Ortega.

Journey, Interrupted

Mental Health Month raises awareness about conditions such as depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder.

Donna couldn’t smile. Overwhelmed by the activities of her daily life, she couldn’t concentrate or experience happiness.

Churchill Students Win 2012 National Achievement Scholarship

Award honors scholastic achievements of African American students

Two Potomac-area high school students were selected as 2012 National Achievement Scholarship winners by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Christine Hildreth and Maliza Namude received the highly selective prize that honors the academic achievements of African American students around the country.

‘Boomer’ or ‘Sticker’ – or Little of Both?

In his recent lecture at the National Endowment for the Humanities, Wendell Berry observed that, throughout our history, Americans have been divided into “boomers” and “stickers.” The noted author and conservationist was invoking in turn the distinctions originally made by his mentor and fellow author and conservationist Wallace Stegner.

Exhibiting Paint and Stone in Potomac

The Art Gallery hosts work by painter and sculptor.

This month The Art Gallery of Potomac will present a show titled "Painting on Sunshine:" a display of original art that brings together two perspectives on nature — its color and beauty through paintings by Claire Howard and its permanence and strength through David Therriault's stone garden sculpture.

Landon Teacher Launches Website

Potomac resident Josh Basile and Brittany Martin, a Chinese teacher and the Varsity Rugby head coach at Landon School, have co-founded a new website, www.SPINALpedia.com.

Local Safety Net Clinics Seek a Few Good Doctors

Specialty care physicians and other medical professionals needed to serve low income, uninsured patients.

When Marie Markey of Alexandria retired from U.S. Air Force as a physical therapist, she rolled up her sleeves and went to work helping those in need. Markey works as a volunteer twice each week at the Arlington Free Clinic, offering physical therapy to the clinic’s low income and uninsured patients.

Volunteers Honored for Efforts

Four locals receive Community Champions Awards for Health Care and Social Services to the Community.

Four Northern Virginia volunteers were honored for their charitable efforts recently. Edward Shahin of McLean, Marie Markey of Alexandria and Mattie Palmore and Kari Warren of Mt. Vernon received the Molina Healthcare Community Champions Award during a ceremony at the at the Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center in Fairfax.

Classified Advertising

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Editorial: Reminders to Press Ahead for Housing

Spring discussion on hypothermia shelters could help preparations for winter.

In February, 2007, 59-year-old Robert Bruce Miller was found dead outdoors in Chantilly. Miller was homeless, known to businesses and residents in the area. He died of hypothermia, exposure to the cold.

Pitcher Haynes Leads Wootton Softball to Division Title

Patriots beat Whitman behind senior’s complete-game effort.

Senior pitcher Casey Haynes led the Wootton softball team past Whitman on April 30 to capture the 4A South Division championship.

Column: News That’s Fit To Print

As our Publisher and fellow cancer survivor, Mary Kimm, e-mailed back to me last week: “Who knew ‘stable’ could be so exciting?”