Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas - Children's & Teens' Almanac 2021 - The Connection ...
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The Little Farms Garden Club of Potomac
continues a tradition started in 1978,
decorating the Great Falls Tavern for the
holidays. This season, the greens and
bows went up on Dec. 7. Page
Children’s & Teens’
Almanac 2021
Photo by Debbie Stevens
Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas
December 15-21, 2021 online at potomacalmanac.com
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7 12609 Greenbriar Road — $1,910,000 8 11300 Palatine Drive — $1,725,000 5
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September, 2021 Top Sales
MacAth 495
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In September, 2021, 61 Potomac homes sold between $4,900,000-$357,500.
2 9701 Spicewood Lane
— $2,425,000
6 9814 Hall Road
— $2,100,000
1 9819 Newhall Road
— $4,900,000
Address..................................BR FB HB Postal City .....Sold Price... Type ........Lot AC . Postal Code ... Subdivision....... Date Sold
1 9819 NEWHALL RD ............. 6 ... 6 ...2 ....POTOMAC . $4,900,000 ... Detached .. 1.08........ 20854 .POTOMAC OUTSIDE 09/15/21
2 9701 SPICEWOOD LN ......... 6 ... 7 ...2 ....POTOMAC . $2,425,000 ... Detached .. 2.09........ 20854 .....FALCONHURST .... 09/30/21
3 10821 TULIP LN .................. 7 ... 6 ...2 ....POTOMAC . $2,318,000 ... Detached .. 3.39........ 20854 .........POTOMAC ........ 09/27/21
4 9809 BENTCROSS DR.......... 6 ... 6 ...2 ....POTOMAC . $2,200,000 ... Detached .. 2.01........ 20854 .....FALCONHURST .... 09/15/21
5 9204 POTOMAC SCHOOL DR 7 ... 7 ...1 ....POTOMAC . $2,195,000 ... Detached .. 0.45........ 20854 ...........AVENEL .......... 09/27/21
6 9814 HALL RD ..................... 5 ... 6 ...3 ....POTOMAC . $2,100,000 ... Detached .. 0.46........ 20854 .... HERITAGE FARM.... 09/30/21
7 12609 GREENBRIAR RD ...... 5 ... 5 ...2 ....POTOMAC . $1,910,000 ... Detached .. 2.00........ 20854 ........... PALATINE ........ 09/27/21
8 11300 PALATINE DR ........... 7 ... 6 ...0 ....POTOMAC . $1,725,000 ... Detached .. 2.00........ 20854 ......... PALATINE ........ 09/13/21
Copyright 2021 Mark etStats for ShowingTime. Source: Bright MLS as of September 30, 2021
5 9204 Potomac School Drive — $2,195,000 http://www.connectionnewspapers.com/news/2021/oct/29/potomac-home-sales-september-2021/
2 v Potomac Almanac v December 15-21, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
v Potomac Almanac v July 28 - August 3, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
nac
2021 Children’s and Teens’ Almanac
W
elcome to our 2021 Children’s print out pages from the PDFs or take a digi- goal of $50,000. PPP funding, “forgivable of an international journalism legend, Kemal
Almanac sections. While sub- tal copy to a photo center to print out larger, loans,” made our survival possible. Now we Kurspahic, who served as managing editor
missions were still short of high resolution copies of your child’s art if are still hoping for a grant from Rebuild Vir- and guiding light for decades. Kemal died
the pre-pandemic avalanche you desire many copies. ginia to help get us into 2022. We applied tragically and unexpectedly this fall, having a
of children’s and teens’ art and writing, in It feels like a small, or not so small, mir- almost a year ago, but it seems possible that stroke after minor surgery. We miss him dai-
2021 students have delivered a delightful, acle to have made it to the end of 2021 our application might be reviewed while ly. Keeping everything going has been harder
sometimes unusual, panoply of expression. and be looking forward into the New Year. there is still money in the fund. since. You can read Kemal’s obituary here:
495 I’ve enjoyed the art and writing as we’ve The pandemic has been a bear, financially I think we can be characterized as patho- http://www.connectionnewspapers.com/
downloaded it over many many hours in the and otherwise. Revenue plummeted at the logical optimists. While there are forces out news/2021/sep/22/courage-journalism/
last two weeks. And I hope you will also. beginning in 2020. More recently we have there that could make it impossible for us
You can find digital copies of the papers, seen the return of advertising for events to keep going, we continue to push forward. We haven’t done everything we aspire to
including the Children’s and Teens’ Alma- and Grand Openings. Some beloved adver- While I have said this a few times without do, we always aspire to greater community
nac at http://www.connectionnewspapers. tisers have stayed the course supporting us yet making it happen, keep your eyes open service. But we do know that the community
com/PDFs/. The papers should be posted throughout, and many more have done what for our membership drive, which would is better off for Local Media Connection con-
by Thursday, Dec. 16. We deliver tens of they can. Revenue is still short of our greatly hope for readers, sources and community tinuing to publish.
thousands of papers to homes, businesses, curtailed costs. members who would be interested in sup- Now that we’ve told you how we’re doing
public libraries and community centers, plus At the end of 2020, we didn’t have any porting us on a monthly basis. (ha!), let us know how you are doing, what
thousands more in email and digital. We will idea how we would keep going. But our you think about the state of our communities.
print extra copies, and restock at libraries readers responded overwhelmingly to our One of the magical elements that helped Thank you.
and community centers. But also feel free to Go Fund Me, bringing us within reach of our us get this far was the presence on our staff — Mary Kimm, kimm.mary@gmail.com
Student’s name: Timothy Garland
Age: 10
Grade: 4
Town of residence: Potomac
School: Potomac Elementary
Name of teacher: Yanshun Sui
Town of school location: Potomac
Lane
000
Hoover Middle School Mrs. Bryant’s Sixth Grade English Class students
By: Michael Derdzakyan He lost his whole family except for a is ironclad. It is not the true image.
brother and two sisters. I have a Korean mom, and a Korean dad. True Korean culture is when you feel your
My dear friend, My life without my Korean heritage is like steel heart overflow
Let me tell you of a country called Arme- Too harsh to imagine, a wasteland. with your courage, and you feel you grow
nia. Too bad to think, A wasteland from fairytales from long, five times bigger.
But after all this, long ago. Our language created by a loving king,
With all it’s traditions, The country exists as A wasteland is my heart, so I demand, Today, for him, songs we sing.
With all its beliefs, ARMENIA. For you to eat the seeds I will sow. With letters inspired by the shape of hu-
No one will believe what I’ll tell you right Each of the seeds are different. mans,
now. One gives food, another dance. it may have been on paper, but it’s a gem,
Even though this country is the most reli-
Korean Pride A dance with feather rimmed fans, the sig- protected and enforced up ‘till today.
By: Grace Kim nificant. It was made with love and passion,
gious of all, What does sharing who you are to a per- As the beautiful designs in our rice cakes Using the shapes of the ground and the
Sold
It has had a genocide. son without ears do? enhances, sun.
1.5 million people dead, Everyone’s mouths are silenced, so we People only know us by our pop star danc- Back then, we were constantly scared.
/21 With my great grandfather being one of must write with fire. es. We constantly had to hide.
the survivors. The more we share, our pride goes higher. It is not true Korean heritage, But there was one thing no one could hurt.
/21 Traveling from Van to Yerevan, It is a piece of us, like a beating heart, it Yet, that is all many people think of Korea. That was, and is, Korean Pride.
/21
/21
Bulletin Board
/21 Submit civic/community announce- 7300 Macarthur Blvd., Glen Echo. feelings. As an artist, contempla- art illustrates the snapshots of my American traditions: joyous
ments at ConnectionNewspapers.com/ Reception on Saturday, Dec. 11 tion and observation on the world visual voyages documenting my life carols, heartfelt spirituals, and
/21 from 4-6 p.m. around me is of utmost importance through these paintings.” toe-tapping dances that will
Calendar. Photos and artwork wel-
come. Deadline is Thursday at noon, Artist Vian Borchert stated: “Ever since to my work. The world, nature and bring us closer. Cost is $20-$55.
/21 I was a child I was a dreamer. I the environment move me like no Dec. 17-19 Different dates: Friday, Decem-
at least two weeks before event.
remember looking up at the sky other. The works presented in this The Christmas Revels. At The ber 17, 7:30-9:45 p.m.; Satur-
/21 and being fascinated by the clouds’ collection titled “Dreamscapes” are Spanish Ballroom in Glen Echo day, December 18, 2:00-4:15
NOW THRU JAN. 9
2021 movement and formations. The sky an accumulation of my dreams, my Park, 7300 Glen Echo Drive, Glen p.m. & 7:30-9:45 p.m.; Sunday,
”Dreamscapes” Exhibition. At Park
was always there for me to dream journeys, and what caught my eyes Echo. Start your holidays with
021/ View Gallery in Glen Echo Park,
upon and provide me with joyful at a specific moment in time. The The Christmas Revels and timeless See Bulletin, Page 5
www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Potomac Almanac v December 15-21, 2021 v 3
News
Santa Is Coming
E
very December Cabin John Park Vol- Thursday, December 16
unteer Fire Department decorates Locust Ridge
the reserve engine, loads Santa and Oakwood Knolls
a few additional volunteers, and Make up missed runs
head out into the community to collect un-
wrapped holiday gifts for children up to the Friday, December 17
age of 14. Unopened, unwrapped presents Alvermar Woods
can be brought out to Santa as he passes Potomac Hunt Acres
by, or dropped off at either Cabin John Park Merry Go Round Farms
VFD Fire Station. Beallmount
The toy drive supports the National Cen- Lake Potomac
ter for Children and Families in Bethesda Stoney Creek Farms
and the Scotland Drive Community Associ- Saddle Ridge
ation in conjunction. Piney Meetinghouse/Glen Road
The week before Christmas volunteers
begin wrapping and labeling all of the gifts Saturday, December 18
and on Christmas Eve they are delivered to Potomac Village
children who otherwise may not have any Camotop
gifts at all. Falconhurst
Bradley Farms
Contactless Toy Drop-Off McAuley Park
You can also drop toys off at Station 10, Kentdale Estates
on River Road near Seven Locks Road, or Bradley Blvd Estates
Station 30, on Falls Road close to Oaklyn Congressional Forest Estates
Drive from now until Dec. 23.
Sunday, December 19
Bannockburn
Bannockburn Estates
Santa’s Schedule Al Marah
Wednesday, December 15 Wilson Knolls (1st Due Only)
Congressional Country Club Estates
West Bethesda Park Monday-Wednesday, December 20-22
Cohasset Make up missed runs
Bradley Park
Burning Tree Valley Friday, December 24
Frenchmen’s Creek Toy delivery
Hoover Middle School Mrs. Bryant’s Sixth Grade English Class students
Lena Berhane Mariam’s little brother, Yonas, screeched He got up and started making the kitfo and cooked and seasoned to make it extra spicy,
Grade 6 from the bottom of the stairs. I shuffled my hand around in the pocket of onto a piece of cultural flatbread, known in
HHMS (Herbert Hoover Middle School) “Okay! Coming!” she hopped off of her my lime-green hoodie. I didn’t find what I Ethiopia as injera.
bed and ran downstairs. was looking for, so I put my hands in the “Dad? Why did you keep me home from
In The Eye of “Hi, dad!” Mariam exclaimed when she pockets of my light blue school yesterday. I mean, I know it was Ethi-
saw her father standing at the bottom of the jeans and felt for my phone. Once I found opian Christmas, but…” Mariam tapped the
the Beholder stairs as well. “You’re back from work!” it, I pulled out my phone and texted my best side of her plate, hoping he got the hint, be-
By Lena Berhane “Hi, Mariye. How was school?” friend, Akari. cause she wanted answers.
“Good, overall. But… I need your help “Because this is our culture. As much as I
“Mariam? Why weren’t you at school yes- with something…” Me: Hi value your education, it matters to me that
terday?” “Yes? What is it?” he looked down at her Akari: hey! you hold your culture dear to your heart,” he
I looked at my feet. Should I be embar- in curiosity. She grabbed the bottom of his Me: How is your trifold-presentation for explained firmly.
rassed? It’s not like I chose to… sleeve and dragged him into the kitchen. He international day going? “B-but kids were looking at each other
“I’m sorry…family event...” I mumbled. sat down in a chair and Mariam sat down Akari: Finished it yesterday! You? weirdly! I was the only one out that day!
Kids looked at eachother questioningly. My across from him. Me: Same :) What are you gonna be wear- If this is what ‘culture’ is gonna do to me, I
teacher, Mrs. Davis, smiled genuinely. She “So… Here’s the thing. International day ing? don’t love it.”
laughed and bent down a little to look me in is tomorrow. And I’ve just been wondering… Akari: My grandmother sewed me a beau- “Mariam. We will not discuss this any fur-
the eye as I kicked my feet around in my chair. should I wear my habesha dress? I would tiful kimono ther, I have said the most I could. This con-
“It’s okay. I understand! It’s not that deep, love to, but other kids might just end up Me: Ooooooh send a pic! I wanna see! versation is now done,” He calmly got up to
Mariam. Just make sure to come to school wearing their normal clothes-” Akari: Nope /_(-v-)_/ your gonna have to put his dish in the sink and walked away.
tomorrow for international day. Who is help- “Mariye, it’s okay. Wear what you want, wait and be surprised~ Mariam furrowed her brow in worruy. She
ing you with your trifold display?” it doesn’t matter what others are wearing, Me: kk I don’t mind :) Can’t wait to see. didn’t know what was to come.
“My dad.” saying, or doing. Self-satisfaction is key,” he Peace out bestie, I gotta eat dinner
“Sounds nice!” reminded me. I smiled, pleased to hear those Akari: Lol k bye :> ~International Day~
“Yeah.” reassuring words.
After school, Mariam Tesfaye collapsed “Now, do you want to talk about it over “Okay it’s ready,” He dumped a few spoons The school gym had never felt so huge.
onto her bed. She didn’t know what to ex- some kitfo?” of kitfo onto a plate of injera. Yonas ran All over the tables were trifold cardboard
pect. She wanted to rock her habesha dress, My mouth watered slightly and I bolted into the kitchen and shouted “I smell kitfo! displays. There was loud instrumental-pop
but what will other kids say? She didn’t upright, my chair almost falling. “Yes!” Where is it! You can’t hide it from me!” My music playing in the background. She was
know, He looked at me sternly. “Mariam, the dad got up and once after preparing a plate, in awe.
And as a borderline shy girl, she knew she chair almost fell.” sat back down. We said a prayer and then Maraim looked down at herself and smiled.
definitely didn’t want to stand out. I smiled a “haha, yeah, I’m guilty” smile started eating. She wore a long dress with long sleeves. On
“Mariam! Dinner is ready! Come down!” and he smiled back, sorta rolling his eyes. We enjoyed some nice kitfo: grinded meat, See In The Eye of, Page 11
4 v Potomac Almanac v December 15-21, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
Winston Churchill H. S.
A Cruise to Die For By Ela Jalil you. Thanks for recommending the captain.”
At the mention of his title the cap-
I
took a deep breath of the fresh salty tain looked over at us, locking eye contact
air. There’s nothing quite like the feel- with me. I gave him an imperceptible nod
ing of being at sea. I come alive when and turned back to Camila to laugh at a joke
I feel the beating sun warm my skin, she just told. As we sat there, surrounded by
and watch the wake behind the yacht as it the extravagance of it all while soaking in
breaks through the water. Sea sickness has the beauty of a bright summer day, I felt the
never been a problem for me, something boat picking up speed along with a change
that unfortunately cannot registering on the passen-
be said for my fellow pas- gers faces. The green tinge
sengers. The skin of eight of Ela Jalil (18) was back. Most of the peo-
the 12 people on board has 12th Grade ple tried to adjust, but not
a greenish tinge, telling me Winston Churchill H. S. Camila. She rushed onto
they would rather have this Potomac, MD the bridge to complain to
excursion on land. Armed Potomac Teen Writers’ Club the captain. I couldn’t hear
with sea sickness bracelets, Neal P. Gillen, Leader their heated discussion.
apples, and the ever-helpful When she returned, she
horizon trick, the captain was able to uplift was pacified, albeit still nauseous from the
the spirits onboard. A small grin settled on increased speed.
his face when I flashed him a quick smile “We have to go faster because there’s
and a wink as he passed by. Now with only a storm coming and we need to get ahead
slightly pale faces, most everyone was sitting of it,” Camila whispered to me. “Don’t tell
and relaxed in deck chairs with a few play- anyone else we don’t want to alarm them.”
ing shuffleboard in the long shadow cast by “Got it,” I whispered back with a con-
a basketball backboard. cerned look on my face.
This is one of the nicest yachts I’ve ever One by one, everyone went below to
been on, but I should have expected that try and ease the seasickness they were ex-
given the excessive wealth of the people on periencing. Beforehand, two people vomit-
board. Eying the diamond necklace that the ed over the rail as the captain kept his re-
blonde sitting next to me was wearing, I pic- lentless pace. In fact, I felt that he might be
tured myself fingering those jewels as I wore going faster. At that point there were only
them proudly. When she turned to smile at three people above deck, the captain, Cami-
me, I quickly morphed my face into a grin, la, and me. Camila clutched her stomach
praying that she didn’t see me staring at her. and groaned but refused my offer to take
“Mira, you have just got to try this lob- her below. Nothing was going to stand in
ster,” Camila called from the opposite side her way. Determined to enjoy the day at sea,
of the deck. she launched into a long-winded story of a
Thankful to leave the awkward situation I gala she attended a couple of years ago. I
had found myself in, I walked over to Cami- tuned her out as I stared out into the tur- Audrey Benford
la who was holding court on the starboard bulent waters. In time, even Camila couldn’t 16
side of the yacht. She truly was the queen stay above deck. She turned away from me Grade 11
a spicy,
bee, and the only reason I was there in the and stumbled down the stairs to the lounge. Potomac, MD
own in
first place. Our friendship was sparked when As soon as she was out of sight I rushed Winston Churchill HS
I bumped into her at a cafe, causing her to to the bridge. “How much longer is this go-
e from
drop her food all over the floor. After treat- ing to take?” I hissed. “We can’t keep them
as Ethi-
ing her to lunch to apologize for my blunder, below deck much longer!” boat. Its steel hull exterior no match for the screaming in fear? Was she deathly silent
ped the
we realized that we had a lot in common. “We’re here,” the captain said, pointing craggy reef, it was quickly pierced. and trying to hide? Or was she trying to fight
int, be-
We’ve been inseparable for the past couple at the jagged rocks ahead as water glistened Upon impact, I could hear the screams the rising water and my sisters in a futile
of weeks. That’s how I think friendships off of their tips – a beautiful but deadly sight. from the people below. I smiled, knowing attempt to survive? I cast her out my mind
uch as I
work with Camila. Super intense in the be- When I looked into the captain’s eyes, that there was no escape before I dove over with a shrug. I’ve known countless girls like
me that
ginning, and slowly petering out until she I realized the flood of emotions in him as he the side of the once magnificent yacht. I her throughout the centuries who’ve all met
art,” he
moves onto the next thing. I know that my comprehended the oncoming danger. “What willed my true self to come forward once I the same grisly end. There’s nothing I could
time with her was running short, so I was am I doing,” he yelled as he began to turn hit the water. When my legs fused togeth- do when my sisters got their talons on her.
h other
enjoying the luxury while I could. I perched the wheel away from the rocks, impelling er to create my tail, I propelled through The one thing I grabbed during the
at day!
on the edge of her seat and stole a lobster me to grab his arm and turn him towards the water calling my sisters out of hiding. attack was the shining diamond necklace,
o me, I
claw from her plate while flashing her a me. Looking into his eyes, I cautioned him, They came in a swarm, eyes glinting, teeth whose owner is no longer whole. I placed it
smile. She looked at me above her sunglass- “Deep breaths,” I said, taking exaggerated flashing, and tails lashing through the water. around my neck and smiled.
ny fur-
es and smirked, then pulled me into a tight inhales until he calmed down. As his eyes Whipped into a frenzy, they sought out their This was my most successful endeavor
his con-
side hug. clouded over, I braced myself for the impact. victims -- nicely packed below deck for easy yet, but I’m glad that I stayed hopeful even
t up to
“Today’s going to be so much fun,” she The captain increased the speed projecting pickings. during the failures. Rebranding takes time,
d away.
gushed. “This wouldn’t be possible without the yacht towards the rocks, impaling the I tried not to think of Camila. Was she and the Sirens aren’t going anywhere.
uy. She
Bulletin Board
From Page 3 Montgomery College, Rockville. incredible dancing and dazzling LIBRARIES OFFER FREE WORK- An internet connection and a device
o huge. December 19, 2:00-4:15 p.m. & Presented by Maryland Youth costumes bring to life the story of SHOPS FOR JOB SEEKERS (such as a smartphone, tablet
dboard 7:00-9:15 p.m. Ballet. Mechanical dolls, life-sized Marie and her Nutcracker. Join Montgomery County Public Libraries or computer) are required for
tal-pop mice, dancing snowflakes, and us back at the theater for the full- is offering online workshops and participation.
DEC. 17-27 an enchanting kingdom of sweets length classic choreographed by one-on-one sessions geared toward Throughout December – Every
he was ”The Nutcracker.” Show times return to stage this holiday season Artistic Director, Olivier Muñoz. Monday 9:30-11:30 a.m.
assisting job seekers and entrepre-
are December 17, 18, 19, for Maryland Youth Ballet’s LIVE Tickets start at $27. Visit the web- neurs throughout December. All H.I.R.E. (Helping Individuals
smiled. 23, 26 and 27. At Robert E. production of The Nutcracker. Set site: https://www.marylandyouth- workshops are free and offered Reach Employment) Sessions
ves. On Parilla Performing Arts Center, to Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, the ballet.org/tickets/ virtually. See Bulletin, Page 7
age 11
www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Potomac Almanac v December 15-21, 2021 v 5
Hoover Middle School Mrs. Bryant’s Sixth Grade English Class students
The Seventh Call Always going to be there for you, no matter
the circumstances. That is the thought pro-
my eyes, and I was on the bottom of what
looked to be an old worn-out bunk bed. I
that I will never talk about again, Ty
was always there to speak with me. Ty
By Aden Silverman cess that goes through your mind, usually think I woke the thing sleeping atop there was a tall black man who had broad
around right before you’re about to die. because he rolled off the bed right onto the shoulders. He was exceptionally skin-
Prologue floor with a loud WHAM. He lay there on the ny for his size. Underneath that shirt is
Now you may know the feeling of I woke up in what looked like a living solid stone ground for a solid minute, I tell just a couple of bones taped together
release. After a long hard day, wheth- room-sized tent; I was sprawled out on a you. I guess he was a heavy sleeper because with gorilla glue, along with some skin
er it’s at school or work. But for me, worn-out old cot; I could hear yelling and he didn’t budge after that. I looked past him, strapped on with duct tape.
a couple of years. Hello, I’m David. beeping of the a-a machine hooked up to and I was in some sort of house-like area.
That’s David with an I. As in, I hate this me? What was happening? There were dozens of people lying on the Ty and I were sitting down at a bro-
place and am going to escape it. Let’s floor fast asleep, whom I didn’t even see. I ken bench table, eating our supper.
wind back to before this place was my I remembered all of it, I had fallen uncon- heard babies crying in what was heard to be Nails were sticking out of the bottom
new “home,” let’s call it. I had a good scious, but my mind had somehow remem- just the room over, thin walls apparently. and tops, damaged wood as sharp as a
life, you could say. I had a somewhat bered a bit. I could see old, torn-clothed men knife. You had to be very careful where
well-paying job and a wife, Avigail. and some young men covered in wounds. I A loud voice echoed the hallways; it you sat in the cafeteria. Sometimes
And two children, Yoseph and Sarah. heard the screeches of the tires- the bus; I sounded like a gym, the reverb hurt my ears. you had to sit on the ground because
Yoseph is three, and Sarah is five. We was on the bus, where am I now? “Get up!” it bellowed. I opened the door the inmates would take all of the seats.
had a good house too. We did not have from the room to find a ton of other people That might not sound as bad as it is,
many friends, though. No one liked us I returned to the present from a heavy doing the same. Their eyes were weak, their but the floor is infested with ants and
that much. And because there aren’t shaking on my arm, looked up, and there bodies grim and tired. What IS this place? tiny bugs trying to take your food. Food
many Jews in the city, there wasn’t was rain dripping through the tent. I saw it I thought to myself. I followed everyone was something as rare as diamonds.
exactly anything we could do about it. slowly come down, with a *plop* right onto else down a set of stairs and through a wide Only once every two days could we eat.
Then, one day, while we were sitting at my... White t-shirt? A nice cool breeze came door. The people I was following didn’t even Water was from the river, filtered by a
the table having breakfast, there was through the tent flap as someone walked in. hold the door for me; it slammed in my face, broken system. Most of the time, there
a knock at the door. There isn’t any- They were a big, broad man with a badge and when I went to push it open, it backed was algae in the water cups. You would
one who usually knocks at it beside us of some sort and a blood-stained plaid uni- up. I got shoved right back into the door, on be pretty lucky not to digest it.
when we need to get back inside, so form, “Ekelhaftes Schwein aufstehen’’ He the floor.
I was skeptical about who it was. Av- said to me, “Mutig von Ihnen anzunehmen, We were eating the usual refried
igail and I exchanged a look, and she dass ich es nicht wusste,” I said back. “Eh, Someone opened the door from above beans with a cup of water and two
ushered the kids to the other room. I
fair enough,” he responded. “Welcome to me, and my head fell onto rough, cold dirt. blueberries on the side.
looked through the peephole and saw
camp Auschwitz; well, you are not very wel- I got up, brushed off my now brown-spotted
two tall men in black suits in the most
comed, but we will carry on. Get up now,” white shirt and pants, and continued to fol- We started to talk about our day,
excellent pair of shades I’ve ever seen.
he said. I got up and took off the series of low the others. what we did and what we saw; small
I opened the door to welcome them
items hooked up to me. I had no idea how talk, I guess, when I heard a sharp
in, but instead of saying something to
long I was unconscious, didn’t know the Chapter 2: Lewis Winter screech from outside, then two, then
them, I opened my mouth, but nothing
time either, or what camp Auschwitz meant. Two years ago, before I got into this wick- three, then a whole thunderstorm. I
came out. My eyes became blurry on
My best bet was to follow him to see what ed place, I was broke, no home, no family couldn’t hear a thing at all besides yell-
the sides, and I felt something stinging
was happening. He gestured to me to exit or friends, nothing. That disappeared when ing and shouting. My ears stung, and
in my stomach. By then, in the other
room, my wife and kids had started the tent. When I pushed the flap of the cloth, I got a job offer, a new hope for me, some- I had no idea what happened. I fell to
playing a game. Then I realized what I looked around; many men were shouting, thing to help me get better and back on my the ground. Then I smelled it. Gunpow-
had happened; I’d been shot. some man got hit with a baton and shrieked feet. Or at least, that’s what I thought. der. The smell that stung your nose. It
loudly, what was happening?! A foul smell couldn’t be, right? I ran outside to see
They dragged me out of my house, filled the air. A lot of gasoline oil was what I Every couple of seconds, the whole bus what had happened, hoping that it
silently closing the door behind me. pinned the scent to. There were what looked shook. Everyone was bouncing around in wasn’t what I thought it was- but I was
I struggled to break out of their tight like guard towers surrounding the area. their seats, trying not to get tossed around as wrong.
grip, and they weren’t even working the entire road was filled with rocks, some
themselves, not even flinching as they We continued to walk to a remote shack big, some as tiny as pebbles. But it didn’t “YOU DO NOT, EVER DISRESPECT
dragged me to what looked like a bus. where a large muscular man, “Igor,” called matter. The boss was 20 years old. A feath- US. SAY ADONAI IS MY RULER, AND
I managed to look back to the win- out. The man was focused on what looked er could stop the bus right in its tracks. It YOU WILL GO RIGHT WITH THE REST
dow. I saw Avigail looking in complete like security cameras monitoring the area, was also a very twisty road. Combined with OF THEM, EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY.
shock as she saw what was happen- startled. He turned around and faced me people trying to latch onto their seats from SAY WHAT YOU WANT, BUT WE CAN-
ing. I was falling unconscious by the and then to the person who woke me up, the rocks, they also avoided smashing into WE WILL KILL YOU. DO. NOT. MESS.
second I just knew it. Pain struck me then he stared back at me and had a grim the glass window. We were heading to the WITH. US. I am your god. I am your rul-
in the stomach earlier, but now it was face of disgust. “What do you want?” the big abandoned village that we found. A couple er. I command you.” Ty was right next
coursing through my body, exploding fellow said “this guy’s new here. Are there of years back, we wanted to create our own to me. I didn’t even realize, but he was
through my veins, it felt like. External any free cells yet?” “Cells?!” I thought to my- area. So that’s what we did. covered in blood from shirt to pants.
blood was covering my whole low- self, excruciatingly exasperated. “Yeah, Row He made a little sound, but I quick-
er body. It’s bright red shining in the C,” the security man said. My head felt heavy. After years of building, we were ready. ly covered his mouth. Unfortunately,
sunlight, Like if you could see liquid I couldn’t breathe. Something had hit my We overthrew the government; Raid every they heard and shouted “do you want
fire. The blood was streaming through head- and hard. I fell back on my knees and governmental building. We got guns, ammo, to say something?” The crowd around
my skin like a river flowing past a hit the soft, damp soil. It must have rained re- and a lifetime supply of death, after two is walked back into a circle formation.
mountain. Unable to think. Relaxed cently. Some dirt fell in my mouth. I coughed years. WE were the new government. WE Just the 2 of us in the middle while he
like you’re dying. Somehow blocking it up along with some blood. My mouth felt run this. Not those stupid, ignorant little was standing on the stage. The guards
out the pain as life itself. Sadness and numb. Heck- my whole body. I couldn’t feel “jews” igch, even the word disgusts me. Af- drew their weapons. I looked at him. He
life are flashing before your very eyes. a thing, and then a foot slammed onto my ter we took over almost every building that looked frozen solid. “Well?” he shouted.
The blood is resembling your strength, back. And I was knocked out. was even remotely associated with those Ty frantically shook his head. “Good,
weakness, emotions, and reality, government brats, they didn’t know what I wouldn’t want to have a problem to
coursing through your body. Your body Chapter 1: The Acclimation procedure was right. They thought they knew every- deal with right now. I have more im-
is resembling life itself and the endless I woke up to the sound of some sort of thing. But the thing is, you aren’t more intel- portant things to deal with, rather than
possibility for change. And the veins, clanging, a rock? No, too loud to be a rock, ligent than your ruling. You don’t command you. Ty’s head was sweating so much.
the veins resembling your family and my eyes felt heavy- really heavy- so the only them; they command you. “Boys, lower your weapons.” He said.
friends, and the people who support choice I had was to wake my body up with a Ty, with all his strength, said, “thank
you through your long journey, the jolt, alright, 3, 2,1 BANG! My head hit some- Chapter 3: Get to know you you, sir!” In which he responded, “It’s
body. The long journey through life. thing- and hard I forced myself to reopen Amongst all of the hatred and things Adolf Hitler; to you.”The Seventh Call
6 v Potomac Almanac v December 15-21, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
News
choices to improve their economic position.
Guaranteed “The Guaranteed Income Pilot Program is a solution
to assist families in permanently exiting poverty,” said
Income Pilot Program Council President Albornoz. “The first of its kind in
the State of Maryland, this program will help provide
On Dec. 14, Montgomery County Council unan-
imously voted to approve a nearly $2 million spe- economic mobility to our most vulnerable residents
cial appropriation to the FY22 Operating Budget for and put an end to generational poverty.”
a Guaranteed Income Pilot Program. The funding The pilot will be a public-private partnership with
was introduced by lead sponsors Councilmember a $1 million grant from the Meyer Foundation to sup-
Will Jawando and Council President Gabe Albornoz. port this effort. Evaluation of the program will be built
Council Vice President Evan Glass and Councilmem- into the pilot as it is designed.
bers Tom Hucker, Craig Rice, Hans Riemer and Nancy Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, data showed
Navarro were cosponsors. that 40 percent of Americans could not afford a $400
This special appropriation will provide the initial emergency. In 2018, it was estimated that 47 percent
funding to implement a Montgomery County Guaran- of Montgomery County’s renter households were rent
teed Income Pilot Program. The pilot program would burdened, paying more than 30 percent of their in-
enroll 300 households and provide $800 per month come for housing. COVID-19 has disproportionately
for 24 months. had a negative financial impact on women and peo-
This may include individuals or families with or ple of color. Guaranteed income is expected to be an
without children. A collaborative planning effort is effective component of helping households recover
underway to determine how people will be enrolled from the economic impacts of the health crisis
into this pilot program. Efforts to address any impact
from guaranteed income on other benefits, and the
structure for the evaluation of outcomes for partici- COVID-19 Hospitalizations
pant households are also underway.
“Guaranteed Income Programs are showing up in Are Up in County
cities and counties across the U.S.” said Councilmem- Sean O’Donnell, the county’s public health emer-
ber Will Jawando. “The belief that people have the gency preparedness manager, said that as of Monday,
ability to make the best choices to improve their eco- Dec. 13, there were 141 COVID-related hospitaliza-
nomic position has shown to be true in case after case. tions countywide, 106 in acute care beds and 35 in
We’re proud to be the first jurisdiction in Maryland to intensive care unit beds, which CDC considers “mod-
introduce a Guaranteed Income Pilot. As we continue erate utilization.” This is higher than in previous
through recovery from COVID-19, we look forward to months.
helping many Montgomery County residents become Although the county currently has adequate bed
more financially stable and improve their quality of capacity, county health officials have worked with lo-
life.” cal hospitals to develop plans for increased capacity
Guaranteed income is a direct, recurring cash pay- in case of a surge. In addition, state health officials
ment to a specific, targeted group of people without have directed hospitals throughout Maryland to pro-
strings attached. The purpose of the program is to vide updated emergency plans addressing a potential
help alleviate poverty, provide a form of financial sta- surge to the Maryland Department of Health, accord-
bility and give residents the ability to make their own ing to O’Donnell
Bulletin Board
From Page 5 Business Center. Register: https:// Service (NPS) began reducing the
Sign up to meet virtually/confidentially mcpl.libnet.info/event/5835844 deer population in Rock Creek Park,
one-on-one with a career counselor Wednesday, Dec. 15: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 the park’s tree seedling density has
for advice and assistance with your p.m. How to Apply for Jobs with almost tripled. To continue to pro-
job search. Register: Montgomery County Government tect and restore native plants and
Monday, Dec. 20: https://mcpl.libnet. Find out everything you need to promote healthy and diverse forests,
info/event/5835481 know about applying for jobs with Rock Creek Park will conduct deer
Monday, Dec. 27: https://mcpl.libnet. Montgomery County Government. management operations between
info/event/5835485 Register: https://mcpl.libnet.info/ Nov. 22, 2021, and March 31, 2022.
Wednesday, Dec. 15: 10 - 11:30 a.m. event/5194274 During this period, the NPS plans to
Introduction to Entrepreneurship Program Contact: Adrienne Vanlare, reduce deer populations in Rock
Are you just starting your entrepre- Adrienne.vanlare@montgomery- Creek Park and other areas under
neurial journey? This workshop will countymd.gov Rock Creek Park’s management.
cover the fundamentals of building These areas could include Melvin
a business and help you determine DEER MANAGEMENT Hazen Park, Soapstone Valley Park,
if you’re ready to become a small AT ROCK CREEK PARK Pinehurst Parkway, Glover Arch-
business owner. Presented in part- bold Park, Battery Kemble Park and
Since 2013, when the National Park
nership with the Maryland Women’s Fort Totten Park, among others.
www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Potomac Almanac v December 15-21, 2021 v 7
News
A Tradition Since 1978 Decking out the Great Falls
Tavern for the holidays.
The Little Farms Garden Club of Potomac continues a holiday tradition decorating the Great Falls Tavern.
T
he Little Farms Garden Club bounty of verdant foliage. The lush the holiday season. The tavern, built
of Potomac decorates the and fragrant collection of shrubbery in 1828 as a lockhouse, had north
On Dec. 7, 2021 National Park Ranger Mark Myers
Great Falls Tavern for the and botanicals included boughs of and south wings added in 1831 as
continues his long tradition of helping the Little Farms
holidays every year in early magnolia and white pine, Fraser Fir, suggested by its first locktender, W.W.
Garden Club with the decorating of the Tavern. He’s
December, although the tradition was holly, and nandina with berries. The Fenlon. He aspired to establish an inn
been doing it as long he can remember.
canceled in 2020 due to the pandem- spirit of the season filled the air as that would accommodate the growing
ic. the women wired, tied, and draped numbers of travelers visiting the area
greenery while they enjoyed the great to escape the city’s heat and hustle
As reported in the Potomac Alma- outdoors on the unseasonably warm and bustle.
nac in 2014: 72-degree day. “The centerpiece of the overall de-
“Little Farms Garden Club formed sign features a 40-foot long garland
“A tradition established in 1978 by the partnership with the rangers at above the main portal hung by Park
the women of Potomac’s Little Farms the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Nation- Ranger Mark Myers. “I’ve been help-
Garden Club continued when over al Historical Park to meld their talents ing them as long as I can remember.
two dozen of its members enhanced and resources to beautify the national The garland was plenty heavy. It’s
the historic Great Falls Tavern with a landmark for the community during definitely an armful,” Myers said.”
The broad
side of the
tavern was
also decked
out for holi-
day cheer.
Photos by
Debbie Stevens
Julie L
8 v Potomac Almanac v December 15-21, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com
Potomac Karah Lombardo and Alex Glaubitz out to enjoy the remaining fall colors. Scott Holliday heads off to enjoy the day on the river. Enjoying the Day in a Beautiful Place It was just still before Thanksgiving, and there were some beautiful warm days to enjoy out along the towpath and the Potomac River. Photos by Debbie Stevens Julie Lang and her stand up paddleboard. Elizabeth Riel, and Josie and Tara Bingley Kate Glynn and Matt Ryan are bookends to Penny. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Potomac Almanac v December 15-21, 2021 v 9
News
Photo by Ron Green Photo by Linsey Wise
Cynthia Fox (center), of Alexandria, visits with members of Afghan refugee Javi and A second sort of donations at Ramstein Air Base separated clothing by sex, age
family at Quantico, bringing donations of clothing and other essentials. and size.
Local Veterans Aid Afghan Evacuee Family
Support Crosses Give to Help
Three Continents. Refugees
At a time of the year when
By Susan Laume many more area citizens will
The Almanac open their hearts to help oth-
ers in need, these local chari-
T
ties are offering assistance to
his is the story of one fam- Afghan evacuees who must
ily’s successful evacuation start again from nothing:
from Afghanistan to escape LUTHERAN SERVICES
the brutal policies and ac- National Capital Area,
tions of the Taliban. It’s also the sto- www.lssnca.org
ry of how groups of northern Virginia AFGHAN YOUTH RELIEF
residents made the evacuation possi- FOUNDATION
Chantilly,
ble in the face of shrinking hope and
www.aryl.org
rising danger, and how they helped
CATHOLIC CHARITIES
one family start their journey to free- Arlington,
dom and safety. www.ccda.net
There are many Afghan families HOMES NOT BORDERS
whose stories are similar to this fami- Washington D.C.,
ly’s and many neighbors who felt the www.homesnotborders.org
Photo by Jon-Paul deLange Photo by Colby Wise
call to help. Situated so close to the Northern Virginian group organizer, Northern Virginians residing in Germany buy out the IKEA LOCAL VETERAN SPON-
global seat of power that is Washing- veteran Ron Green (left), of Alexandria, store inventory of blankets to contribute to evacuees arriving SORED FUND
https://gofund.me/b5cf1eb0
ton D.C., many residents in our area stands with Afghan evacuee Javi on at Ramstein Air Base
are among those involved in high pro- Quantico Marine Base after Javi’s escape
ers who supported an Afghan Orphanage all
file events. What makes this story dif- from Kabul with his family. to help each other in their mission, including
of whom are in fear for their lives for work-
ferent is that local people took on the some still on active duty in Afghanistan.
ing with US Forces. Many more still in harm’s
role that the government could not, making pressures were building in the final days of Communications in Afghanistan required
way, trying to get out of Afghanistan.”
the ultimate difference in the lives of many U.S. troop withdrawal. Javid was desperate- encryption to avoid leading the Taliban to
Read more at https://gofund.me/b5cf1eb0
who aided the U.S. in time of war. ly worried for his safety and his family’s. the hidden families.
The Special Immigrant Visa program is Over several harrowing days and nights,
MEANWHILE IN GERMANY, at U.S. Air
MEET THE FOX-GREENS, both career Army available to people who worked with the the family, six girls under the age of ten, six
Force, Ramstein Air Base, another north-
veterans now residing in Alexandria. Ron U.S. Armed Forces or under Chief of Mission women, and six men, reached the airport
ern Virginia couple, Colby and Linsey Wise
Green served in Afghanistan in the 528th authority as a translator or interpreter in and were safely airlifted to Germany. Their
were also heeding the call to help. The Wise
Special Operation Support Battalion from Iraq or Afghanistan. escape included narrowly missing the sui-
family, formerly of Falls Church, had been in
2000-2003; his wife served in Kandahar in When Green’s friends recognized there cide bombing at Kabul International Airport.
Germany for four years with Colby’s compa-
2005-06. The Northern Virginia couple, to- was no existing system within the State Javid’s was not the only family aided by
ny, providing Defense Department support.
gether with others, organized a core group of Department or Department of Defense that the group. “Our efforts to date have success-
Ramstein Air Base was designated to receive
veterans after a plea from friend and fellow could coordinate with these allied families fully rescued 12 translators and their fami-
evacuees airlifted from Kabul as a point of
veteran Thomas Koppen. Koppen’s Afghan like Javid’s, the veterans organized. They lies. This is great news, but the work contin-
departure to the U.S. and other countries.
translator, Javid, who served in support of took on the task of getting the interpreter ues,” according to the group’s Go Fund Me.
The Ramstein Air Base newsletter told of
U.S. troops through 2017, had called seek- and his family out of danger. In what Fox de- “There are many others our group is work-
a growing effort, “What started as a cloth-
ing assistance. Javid’s long period of applica- scribed as a “spider web” of contacts, includ- ing on getting out of Afghanistan including
ing and shoe drive turned into a large do-
tion for a Special Immigrant Visa, begun in ing those from her service in Kandahar Prov- interpreters who directly supported Special
2016, had not been finalized. Dangers and ince and Kuwait, several groups connected Operations, Medical Professionals, and work- See Afghan Evacuee, Page
10 v Potomac Almanac v December 15-21, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.comNews
Over 50 Years of Iconic Music Venue
Birchmere tell-all book by local writers published in time for the holidays.
By Mike Salmon markers that built enue, so the food
The Almanac the reputation of and drinks they
this durable mu- serve are part of
F
or a band to play at the sic venue,” Oelze their financial
Birchmere in Alexandria, wrote. Oelze lives picture.
it was like almost making in the Del Ray People are
it to the big-time concert part of Alexan- there to see the
world of stadiums and arenas. dria, while Moore shows though
Since opening in the mid 1960s, lives in Bethesda. and hear the mu-
the Birchmere has been a launch- “We inter- sic of Vince Gill
ing ground for many musicians, viewed about 120 from the Pure
showcasing songs and sounds that musicians, they Prairie League,
make it an important place to start viewed it as an and the Eagles,
Photo contributed
a musicians tour. The festoon out intimate listen- Richie Havens of
front featured iconic musicians like ing room,” Moore Woodstock fame,
Pete Seger, Arlo Guthrie, Johnny said. The sound Herb Alpert and
Cash, Ray Charles and Joan Baez is different in a Famed music venue is in an Mary Chapin Car-
ey Wiseto name a few. small place like area that used to be known penter to name
An entertainment venue like this, and Moore as Arlandria. a few. “Many of
that can’t go through 55 years of found that some the musicians see Authors Gary Oelze, left, of Del Ray, and Stephen Moore of Bethesda.
concerts without a few stories of the musicians prefer being close the Birchmere as their first stop on
to tell, and those stories are the to the audience. “Here they can re- tours,” Moore said. a time out unknowingly in one of nail pictures of the musicians and
y
meat behind the newly released ally see the people, they love that,” Over the years, there are tales of the technician’s rooms. the early days. Some are recog-
book “All the Roads Lead to the Moore said. musical discovery, but also tales of In 1991, Woody Harrelson of nized at first sight, and some are
Birchmere, America’s Legendary “Intimate,” is a place with about time and place. the television series “Cheers,” not, at least not to the music fans
Music Hall,” that hit the shelves 500 seats and an artistic neon sign For example, one of the stories hammered out a country set with of today’s Top 40. The book took
in early November. Authors Gary that looks out to Mount Vernon Av- involved the Grateful Dead’s Mick- his band “Three Cool Cats.” Mov- two years to write and the cover
Oelze and Stephen Moore dipped enue in Del Ray. The current venue ey Hart who arrived late, and the ie producer John Waters does a was produced by Stilson Greene,
into their memory banks, and the is the third place the Birchmere has Dead Heads were camped out all Christmas Show every December an artist in Leesburg. An after-
memory banks of many others that been over the years. They were at over the place around the Birch- that’s more comedy and commen- ward was written by newsman Bob
have been on stage there to come another location in Del Ray, and a mere. The place was filled and it tary than music. Waters is coming Schieffer, who had his own country
up with this 472-page documenta- spot in Shirlington before that. It’s “almost exploded,” said Moore. again this year on December 15. band at one point.
ry on paper. tough to survive with prime real Another story involved Ray The book has 33 chapters on acts The book is available on Book-
“Many moments stand out as estate like that on only concert rev- Charles, a blind musician who took throughout the years, and thumb- Locker.
Hoover Middle School Mrs. Bryant’s Sixth Grade English Class students
In The Eye of “It’s fine, just go out and talk to
your friends. They probably will
has a point.” said a boy. Her older
brother, based on the resemblance.
sink. “Please dont…it’s kinda dirty
down here… uh, your Kimono…”
not much older than Mariam,
perhaps an 8th grader,
the Beholder love your dress, you look lovely.”
Her dad was trying to help, so
“What are you wearing?”
She looked around and saw an-
“It’s okay, no worries. Have you
been here the whole time? I’m
ran her fingers through her
afro and then calmly walked
From Page 4 she decided to give it a chance, other boy whispering and pointing. sorry for being late, we had to do backstage. Mariam and Akari
“Okay fine,” Mariam mumbled Mariam couldn’t take it any- some last minute changes to my ki- ran backstage as the curtains
the cuffs of her sleeves and the in a mopey voice. She left her fa- more. She ran out of the gym and mono… it didn’t fit quite right,” she closed. Then they emerged,
hem of her skirt was a green ther and walked around to look into the bathroom. laughed awkwardly and as though the traditional Ethiopian mu-
and red pattern. She walked at the presentations. She couldn’t She sat under a sink, hug- it were contagious, Mariam smiled. sic booming from the speakers.
around in an attempt to find find Japan, meaning Akari wasn’t ging her knees, and silent tears “How are you so chill?” They held out pastel pink fans
people to socialize with, until here yet. That’s where streamed down her face and onto “Because I love my culture and with pink cherry blossoms on
her eyes wandered around the she’s from, so it’s kinda a her sleeves. She tried to wipe her you should too! It’s beautiful! All them. They both started off with
gym enough for her to come to no-brainer that she would do that face but the material of the sleeve cultures are beautiful in their own a traditional japanese dance
a horrifying discovery. country. She loved the German dis- irritated her skin, so she just left way. It just depends on who you during a slower part, and then
Her worst nightmare, in fact. play; they had those German gum- the tears to dry on her face. talk to, beauty is always in the eye and then, as the music got fast-
Everyone was wearing their my bears (we both know what I’m “Mariam?” of the beholder. It’s an opinion. er, got into a traditional ethio-
casual clothes; hoodies, jeans, leg- talking about)! Yum! A soft, kind voice uttered her name. Now, we both look amazing. So pian dance. The kids stared in
gings, t-shirts, sweaters, etc. She “Why are you wearing that God? She wondered for a silly let’s go do that Japanese-ethiopian awe; they were jealous, in fact.
stopped smiling at herself and pan- dress?” a random girl with blond second.. dance we practiced,” she crawled But even if they hadn’t been,
icked. It was her worst thought, and freckles asked. An elementary She walked in. It was just Akari. out and stood, and Mariam did the Mariam felt so happy at that
live in action; being the only one schooler. For some reason, she was still as same. moment. She loved being able
wearing cultural clothing. “Oh, u-um… it’s for my culture. shocked, yet euphoric. “Let’s make them jealous, yeah!” to dance like this. She loved
“Dad!” mariam exclaimed. This is the traditional clothing in, “Hey, Akari. Woah, your kimo- “Mhm!” being able to express her own
She ran toward her father, um you know, Ethiopia.” she re- no… ! It’s amazing! It’s so purple! They ran out of the bathroom culture (also encompassing her
who was standing behind the sponded to the kindergartener as The pink cherry blossoms add such and into the gym right on time. friend’s culture). This is my cul-
table that had the cardboard calmly as she could. “Why do you a pretty touch! It’s beautiful!” She “Thank you for that beautiful ture. I love being able to say
display on it. “It happened! I ask?” looked her up and down in awe. traditional Irish dance, Clara! Even that about this. I love my cul-
told you it would happen!” “Well,” the little girl messed with “So is your dress,” she smiled though it used pop music… it was ture.
“What is it?” her little blond ponytail. “Nobody warmly. still quite creative! Now, we have If I am the beholder,
“All the other kids are wear- else is wearing dress. You weird,” “I don’t think everyone else a special event: A japanese-ethi- in my eyes,
ing normal clothes! Dad, I told she walked away. thinks so…” opian dance! That’s right folks, a This is beautiful...
you this would be a disaster-” “Little kids are weird, but she Akari joined Mariam under the crossover!” The announcer, a girl And that is all that matters.
www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Potomac Almanac v December 15-21, 2021 v 11Holidays
Last Minute Holiday Gift Ideas for Teachers
Thoughtful and
original presents
for educators.
By Marilyn Campbell
The Connection
A
mong those who’ve faced work-
place challenges over the last 18
months are teachers. From hold-
ing the attention of a class of third Photo courtesy of The Nest Egg
graders who are attending school though Teachers can use a brightly patterned
a video conferencing platform to offering tackle box such as this supplies organizer.
accommodations virtually to students with
learning differences, teachers have had to
be among the most creative.
If you’re still looking for a holiday gift to
bring cheer to thank your favorite instructor,
consider forgoing apple-themed presents
and selecting a gift with meaning.
“A couple of practical and thoughtful
ideas, since we’re still taking COVID safety
precautions, would be interesting face masks
or hand sanitizer. We teachers use those all
day,” said Linda Reinhold, a teaching assis-
tant in Bethesda Md. “Teachers might also
appreciate hand cream or lotions since using
hand sanitizer frequently can dry out your
skin.”
Instead of sweets and other edibles, Photo courtesy of The Picket Fence Photo courtesy of The Nest Egg
Courtney Thomas of The Picket Fence in A teacher might appreciate receiving this growing candle. It comes with wild- A key ring that’s both stylish and func-
Burke, Va. suggests a gift that keeps giving, flower seeds that can be planted in the candle container once the candle is gone. tional might be appreciated by teachers
long after the holiday season. “One of our who must carry multiple sets of keys.
more popular gifts this season is our Grow- a luxurious box with a ribbon tied and ready begin, an umbrella, particularly one that
ing Candle,” she said. “These candles come to go.” is made of a classic, but cheerful print will your classroom table.”
in sweet little pots and are wrapped with A key ring that’s both stylish and func- come in handy. “They … will brighten any Supplies can be organized in style with a
seed paper labels. Once the candle is gone, tional might be appreciated by teachers who rainy day,” said O’Shields. tackle box in a garden party print. “It comes
you can plant the seed paper in the contain- must carry multiple sets of keys. “Key ring “Give kitchen tea towels with funny say- filled with pencils, push pins, binder clips,
er and wildflowers will grow.” bangles from Ink+Alloy, made by artisans in ings to the teacher with a great sense of paper clips, magnets, a tear-off notepad, and
Give the gift of self-care this season, sug- India, are the perfect two-in-one accessory humor,” said Anne M. Walker of Farm and an eraser,” said O’Shields.
gests Ann O’Shields of The Nest Egg in Fair- and statement piece,” said O’Shields. “Attach Feast in Potomac. “A wood tray with metal “One thing that teachers get a lot of each
fax, Virginia. “[We have] a luxurious bath it to your keys for easy-access in your tote or frame by Clarence Town is equally at home year is coffee mugs,” said Reinhold. “But I
set with therapy bath balm, bath soak, a can- market bag or throw it on your wrist.” holding beverages and drink ware on your think most teachers are just glad when fami-
dle and matches too,” she said. “It comes in When school ends, but afternoon shows outdoor table as it is at holding supplies on lies show their appreciation for us.”
Let Us Know Your View
Free Sober Rides Offered for the Holidays Connection Newspapers welcomes
views on any public issue.
Letters must be signed. Include home address
I
t is the time of year when, according Each evening, during this six-hour peri- on St. Patrick’s Day, Cinco de Mayo,
to the National Highway Traffic Safe- od, area residents ages 21 and older cele- Independence Day and Halloween. and home and business numbers;
ty Administration, more than a third brating with alcohol may download Lyft to “More than a third of all U.S. traffic we will only print your name and town name.
of all U.S. traffic deaths involve drunk their phones, then enter a SoberRide code fatalities during the holiday season in Letters are routinely edited for length, libel, grammar,
drivers (38%, Christmas; 36%, New in the app’s ‘Promo’ section to receive their 2019 involved drunk drivers according good taste, civility and factual errors.
Year’s Day – NHTSA, 2019). Free safe no-cost (up to $15) safe transportation to the National Highway Traffic Safety Send letters
rides will be offered to would-be drunk home. A new, separate Holiday SoberRide Administration,” said Kurt Erickson, Online www.connectionnewspapers.com/contact/letter
or impaired drivers throughout the area promo code will be posted at 9:00 p.m. on WRAP’s President. By email: editors@connectionnewspapers.com
during the winter holidays beginning on Dec. 17, 24 and 31 on www.SoberRide. SoberRide is offered throughout Lyft’s
Dec. 17. com. Washington D.C. coverage area. By mail to: Letters to the Editor The Connection
Washington Regional Alcohol Pro- During the 2019 winter holidays Since 1991, WRAP’s SoberRide® pro- 1606 King St., Alexandria VA 22314
gram’s 2021 Holiday SoberRide program (COVID-19 prevented Dec. 2020’s full-out gram has provided 81,184 free safe rides You can comment on our
will be in operation nightly, 10 p.m. until campaign), over 1,100 (1,121) people in home to would-be-drunk drivers in the Facebook page or find us on Twitter
4 a.m. from Dec. 17, 2021 to Jan. 1, the Washington-metropolitan area used Greater Washington area. www.facebook.com/connectionnewspapers
2022 as a way to keep local roads safe WRAP’s Holiday SoberRide program rather More information about WRAP’s So- https://twitter.com/alexgazette
from impaired drivers during this tradi- than possibly driving home impaired. The berRide initiative can be found at www.
https://twitter.com/mtvernongazette
tionally high-risk holiday season. charity also officers its SoberRide program SoberRide.com
https://twitter.com/followfairfax
12 v Potomac Almanac v December 15-21, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.comYou can also read
