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Montpelier Today, November/December 2011

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 1 Nov.-Dec. 2011Photography Courtesy of Gloria Hynes

    The Newsletter Of The

    Montpelier Community Association

    Montpelier TodayNovember-December 2011

    Preparing for Winter

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 2 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    Office: 301-384-8700

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    TERRI SHIPPREALTOR

  • 8/3/2019 Montpelier Today, November/December 2011

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 3 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    Inside this issue:

    MONTPELIERTODAYis published by the

    MONTPELIER COMMUNITYASSOCIATION, INC.

    http://www.montpelieronline.orgCommunity Information Line-

    888-MCA-INF(888-622-4630)

    M O N T P E L I E R T O D A Y i spublished six times per year (Jan/Feb, Mar/Apr, May/Jun, Jul/Aug,Sep/Oct, and Nov/Dec) by theMontpelier Community Association,

    Inc. Material for the newslettermust be submitted by the 15th ofthe month prior to publication.Please forward all association andnewsletter correspondence to:

    P.O. Box 2503Laurel, MD 20709-2503

    or e-mail to:[email protected]

    Advertisements are not anendorsement of products or

    services by the Board ofTrustees or the Montpelier

    Community Association, Inc.

    Please Note

    If you have sold your home

    or are a new owner, please

    drop us a note listing the lot

    number and the name of the

    new owner. Requests for

    resale packages should be

    sent to the above address orcall 888-622-4630 x102.

    If you are renting your home andhave a mailing address other thanMontpelier, please let us know.We want all members to receivetheir MCA correspondence andMONTPELIER TODAY in a timelymanner.

    2011Advertising Rates For Montpelier Today

    Per Issue PrePaidAnnual

    (6 issues)Full page $ 120.00 $ 648.00Half page 85.00 459.00Quarter page 60.00 324.00Business card 40.00 216.00

    License information, as required by the

    State and County, must be

    displayed on all advertisements

    For Inquiries:Mary Hughes, [email protected] or 888-622-4630 x103

    MONTPELIER TODAYMONTPELIER TODAYMONTPELIER TODAYMONTPELIER TODAYTHE NEWSLETTER OF THE MONTPELIER COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

    November-December 2011Bob Derrick, PresidentChair, Executive Committee301 [email protected]

    Jack Keating, Vice President

    Member, Executive CommitteeCo-Chair, Facilities Committee301 325-0497

    [email protected]

    Lillian Fazio, TreasurerChair, Finance CommitteeChair, Tennis Committee301 [email protected]

    Patricia Douville, SecretaryMember, Executive Committee301 490-7614

    [email protected]

    Paul Buehler, TrusteeChair, Pool Committee301 776-9886

    [email protected]

    Dave Eisenberg, TrusteeCo-Chair, Facilities Committee301 [email protected]

    Tim Jacobs, TrusteeChair, Communications Committee916 [email protected]

    CommitteesArchitectural Control & ComplianceMichael Boddie, Chair

    301 [email protected]

    Benevolent Fund Vacant

    Elections & Swim Team Lynne Collman, Chair301 [email protected]

    Security Vacant

    Social Carla Bowen, [email protected] 622-4630 x104

    Assistant to the BoardMary Hughes888-622-4630 [email protected]

    Resale Packages888 MCA INFO x102

    2011 Board of Trustees

    2011-2012 Board and Committee List 4

    Announcements 5

    2011 Annual Members Meeting Minutes 6

    August 2011 MCA Board Meeting Minutes 7

    July 2011 ACCC Meeting Minutes 9

    September 2011 MCA Board MeetingMinutes 10

    September 2011 ACCC Meeting Minutes 11

    Treasurers Report 12

    GLO in the Garden 17

    ACCC Approval Form 18

    Helping Hands 22

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 4 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    2011-2012 MONTPELIER BOARD OF TRUSTEES

    Bob Derrick, [email protected] 776-5008

    12608 Cedarbrook Lane

    Jack Keating, Vice [email protected] 325-0497

    9307 Montpelier Dr.

    Patricia Douville, Secretary

    [email protected] 490-7614

    8904 Eastbourne Lane

    Lillian Fazio, [email protected]

    301 776-32678716 Crystal Rock Lane

    Paul [email protected]

    301 776-98869000 Golden Pass

    David [email protected]

    301 776-184212506 Cedarbrook Lane

    Tim Jacobs

    [email protected] 712-1731(C) or 240-841-2787 (H)

    8711 Crestmont Lane

    ACC Committee

    Michael [email protected]

    301 317-5535

    12402 Eastgate Lane

    Communications Committee

    Tim [email protected]

    240 841-2787

    8711 Crestmont Lane

    Elections Committee

    Lynne [email protected]

    12309 Shadetree Lane

    Facilities Committee

    Jack [email protected] 325-0497

    9307 Montpelier Drive

    Nominating CommitteePatricia Douville

    [email protected] 490-7614

    8904 Eastbourne Lane

    Pool CommitteePaul [email protected] 776-9886

    9000 Golden Pass

    Social Committee

    Carla Bowen

    [email protected]

    Swim Team Committee

    Lynne Collman

    [email protected] Shadetree Lane

    Tennis Committee

    Lillian Fazio

    [email protected] 776-32678716 Crystal Rock Lane

    2011-2012 Committee Chairpersons

    Thank you to our former Board of

    Trustees, Richard Dengler and

    Tony Fleming. Both Richard and

    Tony decided not to run for re-

    election to the board this term and

    their contributions will be missed.

    Richard was a Trustee many years ago and more recently

    served as a Trustee since 2008. He has chaired several

    committees over his decades of service to the commu-

    nity, including Security, Pool and Facilities.

    As a Trustee over the past year, Tony completely re-

    vamped and revitalizing the Montpelier website and cre-

    ating online advertising space to cover the costs of host-

    ing the site. Tony also served as the Chair of the Govern-

    ing Documents Committee last year and has served as

    both Chairperson and member of the Communications

    Committee over the past several years.

    Thank you both again for your service to the Montpelier

    Community.

    The MONTPELIER COMMUNITY needs VOLUNTEERS for the BOARD OF TRUSTEES

    and various COMMITTEES. If you are interested and have a few hours to spare each month, please stepup. Need more information? Contact any board member (contact information is at the top of this page). If you

    would prefer to volunteer for a committee, contact information is also above or you can fill out the Join A Commit-

    tee Form on page 15 of this newsletter.

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 5 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    UPCOMING MCA MEETINGSFORALL MONTPELIERHOMEOWNERS

    BOARDOF TRUSTEES MEETINGS

    Mark your calendar for Tuesday November 8 and Tuesday, December 13 for the monthly board meetings at

    Deerfield Community Center, preschool room. All meetings begin at 7 PM. Montpelier homeowners are

    encouraged to attend.

    ARCHITECTURAL CONTROL & COMPLIANCE COMMITTEE MEETINGS (ACCC)

    Meetings are the first Thursday of every month at 7 PM at the Deerfield Community Center, preschool room.

    The next meetings will be Thursday, November 3 and Thursday, December 1.

    THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10--HAM LUNCHEON

    First United Methodist Church of Laurel

    424 Main St. (corner of 5th & Main)

    Laurel, Md. (301-725-3093)

    11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

    Fellowship Hall

    Price: $7.00

    Ham, green beans, homemade potato salad apple

    sauce, rolls, desserts, coffee & tea

    Eat in or carry out. Tickets sold at door.

    Questions: Lois Hamilton, 301-498-9736

    CRAFTS AND BAKE SALE

    SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12

    9:00AM-2:00PM

    Oaklands Presbyterian Church

    14301 Laurel-Bowie Rd.Laurel, MD 20708

    Free balloons and face painting for the kids and young

    at heart. Coffee and donuts for sale during morning

    hours. Hot dogs and cold drinks for sale at lunch time

    Bring your kids and enjoy the fun, fellowship, food and

    crafts. Call Cal Kirby (301-651-5335) or e-mail to ckir-

    [email protected] for more details or if you want to

    sell your crafts.

    HOLLY DAYS BAZAAR AT ST PHILIP'S CHURCH

    SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 9 A.M. - 3 PM

    We would again like to invite our friends and neighbors

    to join us at a Laurel tradition--the 45th annual Holly

    Days Bazaar at St Philip's Church at 6th and Main in

    Laurel, Saturday the 19th of November, 9 a.m. to 3

    p.m. Hand crafted gifts, ornaments, baked goods

    (including pizzelles baked before your eyes), photos

    with Santa, "previously cherished" items, and more.

    Continental breakfast and lunch and door prize draw-

    ings will be available.

    SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 19 - HARVEST BAZAAR

    First United Methodist Church of Laurel

    424 Main St. (corner of 5th & Main)

    Laurel, Md. (301-725-3093)

    9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.Fellowship Hall & Narthex

    Crafts, plants,baked goods & candy, silent auction, New

    to You table (no clothing)

    Lunch will be available.

    Questions: Shari at 301-725-3093

    ANNOUNCEMENTS

    HOLIDAY LUNCHEONS, CRAFT SALES & BAZAARS

    Anne Hull will be performing in the Laurel Mill Playhouse production of Miracle on 34th Street from December 2,

    2011 through December 18, 2011. See page 16 for ticket information or www.laurelmillplayhouse.org.

    Gloria Hynes has been chosen for the fourth time to exhibit at the John Hollingsworth Galleries at Pataxent Wild-

    life Museum. She will also display ten pieces of her work at the new Laurel-Beltsville Senior Center near the hospi-

    tal in April and May. If you would like to see a sample of Glorias work, see page 17 or on-line

    www.montpelieronline.org.

    ARTISTS AND ACTORS AMONG US

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 6 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    The proposed minutes from the 2011 Annual Meeting are below. Members are asked to review the minutes

    and a vote to approve or amend will be taken at the next Membership Meeting.

    Montpelier Community Association, Inc.2011 Annual Meeting Minutes

    September 25, 2011Montpelier Arts Center

    Trustees in Attendance: Paul Buehler, Richard

    Dengler, Robert Derrick, Patricia Douville, Lillian Fazio,

    and Jack Keating.

    Trustees Absent with Cause: David Eisenberg, and

    Tony Fleming.

    Community Members Present in Person or by Proxy:

    18, 41, 70, 72, 91, 129, 141, 169, 178, 186, 190, 208,

    247, 249, 270, 273, 276, 287, 334, 338, 339, 354, 358,

    361, 372, 381, 385, 422, 424, 432, 450, 466, 474, 487,

    496, 507, 508, 518, 556, 577, 592, 596, 601, 616, 618,

    629, 633, 636, 647, 648, 654, 671, 672, 674, 680.

    President R. Derrick called the meeting to order at 2:05PM. There was a quorum to conduct business.

    Presidents Report: Robert Derrick

    President R. Derrick reviewed the past years activities

    through a power point slide show.

    Major repairs were completed at the tennis courts:

    overgrown shrubbery was cleared, the fence was

    painted, the courts were resurfaced, new screens

    and nets were purchased and the benches were re-

    furbished.

    Repairs at the pool included fixing the leak in the

    baby pool, purchasing a new pool motor, impeller

    and hair strainer as well as replacement of the

    cracked concrete around the skimmer baskets.

    The web site was completely revamped and paid

    advertising instituted which completely covers the

    cost of the web page. Other communications main-

    tained with the membership include the newsletter,

    the 888 line, and the yahoo list serv.

    President R. Derrick also presented the results of the

    communications survey. Eighty-nine members re-

    sponded. A drawing was held for the respondents for

    a $25 gift certification. The winner was L. Anderson.

    The President encouraged members to stay involved in

    the community and thanked the current board. Henoted that no meetings were cancelled for lack of a

    quorum.

    Financial Report: Lillian Fazio

    Trustee Fazio distributed copies of the Balance

    Sheet, Profit and Loss statement and a proposed

    budget.

    $58,000 was added to the Reserve Fund last year,

    $53,000 spent in Capital Improvements. It cost

    round $125,000 to run the MCA and there is over

    $306,000 in checking, savings and Capital Reserve

    Fund. At the end of the year a portion of the operat-

    ing fund surplus (estimated to be $40,000) will go

    into the Reserve Fund.

    Trustee Fazio thanked all members who pay the as-

    sessment on time. At this date, 25 have not paid

    and 13 of those owe for two or more years. There is

    approximately $15,000 outstanding.

    Trustee Fazio presented the proposed budget with

    figures calculated as if the assessment would remain

    the same. There is a new charge for using Deerfield

    Community Center for Board and ACCC meetings.B. Dennis asked how much money was in the Reserve.

    President Derrick said he did not have that figure in

    the presentation but that it was in the financial hand-

    outs.

    Committee Reports:

    Swim Team Committee: Lynn Collman, Chairperson

    L. Collman reported that the Marlins had a great sea-

    son and thanked everyone for their support. New

    members are needed and extended family members

    may join. Members of the Association can sponsor

    friends which will enable them to attend practices,

    compete in swim meets, and participate any swim

    team sponsored event.

    Elections Committee: Lynn Collman, Chairperson

    Balloting was closed and the results were announced.

    There were 54 ballots cast and the 2011-2012 Board of

    Trustees is: P. Buehler, R. Derrick, P. Douville, D.

    Eisenberg, L. Fazio, T. Jacobs and J. Keating. The board

    will attempt to appoint two more trustees to fill the

    two vacancies at the October meeting. Anyone inter-

    ested should fill out a Nomination Form for the new

    Board to review. Nomination forms were available for

    those present.

    OLD BUSINESS:

    Secretarys Report: Tricia Douville

    The minutes of the 2010 annual meeting were re-

    viewed. Trustee Buehler made a motion to accept the

    minutes. Trustee Douville seconded the motion and it

    passed unanimously.

    (Continued on page 7)

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 7 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    NEW BUSINESS:

    P. Stainer reported that the vent cover on the end of

    the pump house building had fallen out.

    H. Hass asked if the association could pay for sweep-

    ing leaves out of the streets as they are messy and

    dangerous. Trustee Keating said that the Board

    looked into it last year and it would cost about

    $6,000 and there will still be the same issues that

    occurred when the county provided the service. G.

    Busic observed that residents are responsible for

    leaves from the new trees that MNCPPC planted. She

    now has three trees where she had none. H. Hass

    suggested hiring local help for the clean-up.

    G. Hynes suggested the homeowners contact the

    county to remove the wires holding the new trees in

    place. They are too tight and will eventually kill thetrees.

    J. Martin encouraged members to contact the county

    to get Montpelier streets on the list for resurfacing.

    M. Derrick mentioned that the grass on BGE property

    at Cedarbrook Lane is not cut regularly and when it is

    it is a terrible job. She suggested that the association

    could add it to the grounds maintenance contract to

    make the neighborhood look better.

    Hull proposed that the assistant be given a raise.

    Trustee Keating explained that the assistant was a

    contract worker and a raise could be included in her

    new contract.

    The Prince Georges County Police Commander for

    District VI, R. Brewer, introduced his Assistant Com-

    mander, Tim T and Officer Hibbert. He responded to

    questions regarding the call center and traffic on

    Montpelier Drive.

    The States Attorney for Prince Georges County, An-

    gela Alsobrooks, also addressed the audience. She

    discussed the new partnerships that have been cre-

    ated between her office and the police department,

    sheriffs department and the FBI as well as mentoring

    programs, restructuring and new units within the

    departments. She encouraged the community to be

    active and raise standards in the county.

    Vacant homes were also discussed. The police

    (Officer Wilson) would also like to know of any vacanthomes.

    The Revenue Authority issues citations for parking on

    the wrong side of the street or not moving a vehicle,

    not the police. Usually this is in response to a com-

    plaint from a neighbor.

    There being no additional business, a motion was made

    and seconded to adjourn at 3:58 pm. The motion

    passed unanimously.

    (Continued from page 6)

    Montpelier Community Association, Inc.Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes

    August 9, 2011

    Trustees in Attendance: Bob Derrick, Patricia Douville,

    Dave Eisenberg, Lillian Fazio, Jack Keating and Tony

    Fleming.

    Trustees Absent with Cause: Paul Buehler, RichardDengler, and Tim Jacobs.

    Community Members Present: Mary Derrick, Mr. and

    Mrs. Gorthy, and Mary Hughes

    President B. Derrick called the meeting to order at 7:06

    PM. There was a quorum to conduct business.

    Secretarys Report: Tricia Douville

    The minutes of the July 2011 board meeting were re-

    viewed and amended. Trustee Keating made a motion

    to accept the amended minutes. Trustee Eisenberg

    seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.

    Treasurers Report: Lillian Fazio

    Trustee Fazio distributed copies of the Balance Sheet,

    Expenses by Vendor and Profit and Loss statement

    prior to the meeting.

    There are 12 members who have not paid the 2011

    assessment and 12 additional members who are also

    delinquent for prior years. Trustee Keating made a

    motion to have the attorney send letters of intent to

    those who have not paid this years assessment.

    Trustee Douville seconded and the motion passedunanimously.

    The accountant reported that the compilations of the

    prior years books will be completed before the An-

    nual Meeting.

    Trustee Keating asked if the bill for umbrellas for the

    pool had been paid. The bill has not been submitted

    to MCA yet. Trustee Fazio asked if they were consid-

    ered furniture for accounting purposes. As they need

    to be replaced almost yearly, at about $62 each and

    are not easily depreciable, Trustee Derrick suggested

    a threshold of $500.

    ACCC: Michael Boddie (not present), Chairperson

    No report. Trustee Derrick asked for a list of vacant and

    foreclosed houses so we can determine which mortgage

    companies and banks we are dealing with for yard and

    home maintenance.

    (Continued on page 8)

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 8 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    Communications Committee: Tim Jacobs (not pre-

    sent), Chairperson

    Trustee Fleming reported there has been no commit-

    tee meeting for five months. The online advertising is

    paying for the cost of the website. The realtor listing

    had not been updated or verified and was removed

    from the site. Realtors were notified of the action

    and that online advertising is available for a reason-

    able fee.

    The Governing Documents online have been refor-

    matted and several people are reviewing them for

    accuracy. Once this is done copies will be printed for

    the resale packages. A large printing is not needed at

    this time, a supply of twenty should suffice and if we

    run out they may be self-printed from the pdf files

    and spiral bound.

    Trustee Fleming requested clarification on how the

    board should report official board positions to the

    community. Trustee Derrick explained that the website and list serv do not reach the entire community,

    only the newsletter does, and further, it is very hard

    to come to an official board position outside of a

    board meeting. A board member may make a state-

    ment, but it is not official board policy. Trustee Flem-

    ing made a motion that board members attach the

    following statement to any email if they identify

    themselves as a board member: This is my personal

    opinion and not the official position of the Montpelier

    Community Association Board of Trustees. Trustee

    Keating seconded the motion and it passed unani-

    mously.

    Trustee Fleming expressed frustration that the board

    does not use the list serv to address concerns of the

    membership. Trustee Derrick explained that face-to-

    face contact or dialogue is the way to address a legiti-

    mate concern of a member. He also reiterated that

    the list serv only reaches a portion of the community

    and the exact number has never been verified. Com-

    mittee chairs can certainly report on activity taken by

    their committee and are encouraged to do so.

    Trustee Fleming volunteered to be the Committee

    Chairperson if Trustee Jacobs is no longer interested

    in the position.

    Facilities Committee: Richard Dengler (not present)

    and David Eisenberg, Co-Chairpersons

    Trustee Fazio has been clearing out the back hill inside

    the pool. Mrs. Hynes would like to get more hydran-

    geas. Trustee Keating said that the committee was

    asked to submit a plan but the board hasnt received it

    yet. Trustee Eisenberg will speak with Trustee Dengler

    to schedule a meeting and draw up a plan. There is

    some time because planting will not take place until fall

    anyway. Trustee Derrick said that liriope has already

    been approved by a previous Board vote.

    Pool Committee: Paul Buehler, Chairperson (not pre-

    sent)

    Trustee Buehler will be asked to send the e-mail mes-

    sage which was sent only to the board to the list serv.

    This email explained what action had been taken to

    control the rough games at the pool.

    Mr. Gorthy asked how the rough basketball play is

    being controlled. Management has been told about

    the incident and the lifeguards have been instructed

    to be hyper-vigilant. They can stop the play if the

    pool is crowded or the play is too rowdy. The hard

    basketball is not to be used.

    If rough-housing or some other problems occurs, pa-

    trons should inform the life guards or pool manage-

    ment of the issue immediately. Pointing out issues as

    they happen is central to getting management to un-

    derstand what the community expects of them. Trustee Fleming requested that basketball play be

    restricted to adult swim, but several board members

    said that would interfere with water walking and lap

    swimming by many adults that use adult swim for

    activities that cover a large area of the pool. Manage-

    ment will be told again that there have been com-

    plaints about rough play and the balls being used are

    too hard.

    Social Committee: Carla Bowen (not present), Chair-

    person

    The Labor Day Luau-Potluck will be Saturday, Septem-

    ber 3 at 5:30 pm at the pool. The MCA will provide pa-per products, hamburgers, hot dogs, and drinks. Trus-

    tee Buehler will be asked if he is planning a volleyball

    tournament so that the information can be put in the

    newsletter.

    Tennis Committee: Lillian Fazio, Chairperson

    Trustee Fazio reported that Mr. Harkins is almost fin-

    ished with the benches. Trustee Derrick thanked him

    and said that they look great. M. Derrick commented

    on how many people are now using the courts.

    New water squeegees are needed. Trustee Fazio was

    asked to order them.

    Dirt is needed to fill in around the courts and a writ-

    ten scope of work is needed since it may be over

    $1000 and thus three bids would be required.

    Governing Documents Committee: Tony Fleming,

    Chairperson

    Trustee Fleming has collected all the proposed changes

    and due to the amount of review required will ask next

    (Continued from page 7)

    (Continued on page 9)

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 9 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    Deerfield Community Center

    July 7, 2011

    Committee Members Present: Michael Boddie, Toni Byrd,

    Brian Dennis, Pauline Pettitt, and Tim Shrewsbury.

    Committee Members Absent: Jack Keating , Ron Lenart,

    and Diana Sowle.Community Members Present: M. Hughes.

    The meeting was called to order at 7:15 PM. T. Shrewsbury

    made a motion to accept the amended June 2011 minutes.

    The motion was seconded by T. Byrd and passed unani-

    mously.

    Old Business:

    12203 Brittany Lane Monitor progress of repairs.

    12804 Cedarbrook Letter needed requesting debris

    outside the home be cleaned up by August 1.

    8814 Gramercy Lane No response to statement of fine

    sent 6/6/11 for bringing trailer out of storage early. B.Dennis made a motion to forgive this fine and a simi-

    lar fine on 8730 Oxwell Lane. T. Shrewsbury seconded

    the motion which passed with B. Dennis, T. Shrews-

    bury, P. Pettitt voting yes and T. Byrd and M. Boddie

    voting no. B. Dennis will draft the letter to be sent to

    the homeowners.

    9314 Montpelier Drive Matter was sent to the attor-

    ney for review as there has been no paperwork re-

    garding the States plan to fix the fence, and algae

    was not removed from house.

    8900 Montpelier Drive DER contacted and filed a viola-

    tion with owner regarding the gutter. DER has access

    to foreclosure records, but they are considered confi-

    dential.

    9302 Montpelier Lane Letter sent to Owner (6/28/11)

    requesting paperwork with plans and neighbors sig-

    natures as promised and removal of the non-

    compliant shed by July 22.

    8911 Royal Ridge Lane No response to letter (6/6/11)

    regarding branches remaining in the yard. P. Pettitt

    will provide photo of object on the porch and an-

    other letter will be sent.12502 Silverbirch Lane DER should be called if grass not

    cut in a timely fashion on this vacant property. House

    is for sale.

    12503 Silverbirch Lane No response to letter (6/6/11)

    for gutter in disrepair and a cease and desist will be

    sent.

    12602 Silverbirch Lane Thank you. Excessive clutter in

    driveway is gone.

    New Business:

    12201 Cedarbrook Lane Neighbor complaint regarding

    van with flat tire parked in front of the house for quitesome time. Neighbor should call the county to report

    the vehicle which is on county property.

    9004 Eastbourne Lane Request for Approval to replace

    window with door in the back laundry room area ap-

    proved online. (Voting yes: Byrd, Dennis, Keating,

    Lenart, Pettitt, Shrewsbury)

    8711 Granite Lane Tractor-trailer is gone and tenants

    have moved.

    12607 Ivystone Lane Request for Approval of a fence

    and exception for wire mesh for protection and pri-

    vacy approved online. (Voting yes: Byrd, Dennis,

    Keating, Lenart, Pettitt, Shrewsbury)

    Corner of Montpelier Drive and Oxwell Lane Neighborcomplaint regarding unmowed corner and cable and

    construction equipment left outside owners fence.

    The grass has been cut and utility company will repair

    (Continued on page 10)

    years Board to make recommending updates to the Gov-

    erning Documents a priority.

    NEW BUSINESS

    Annual Meeting is Sunday, September 25 at 2 PM and

    August 10 is the deadline for nominations. Encouragefriends and members that more nominees are needed

    for the board.

    The Agenda for the meeting was discussed. Trustee

    Fazio offered to discuss the financials. Trustee Fleming

    offered to speak about communications and the web

    site.

    Several delinquent assessments were discussed. As-

    sessments cannot be waived by the board, but late fees

    can. The individual cases will be researched by the

    administrative assistant and letters will be sent accord-

    ingly.

    The clean-up of the house destroyed by fire is progress-

    ing. The debris in the yard has been hauled away.

    Trustee Eisenberg reported that he received a com-

    plaint about a house on Shadetree which has ten or

    more cars parked in the street and appears to be aboarding house. The complaint will be reported to the

    ACCC.

    The next board meeting will be held on Tuesday, Septem-

    ber 13, 2011 at 7:00 PM at Deerfield Recreation Center,

    preschool room. The motion was made and seconded to

    adjourn at 8:30pm. The motion passed unanimously.

    (Continued from page 8)

    ACCC REPORT

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 10 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    Montpelier Community Association, Inc.Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes

    September 13, 2011

    Trustees in Attendance: Richard Dengler, Bob Derrick,

    Patricia Douville, Lillian Fazio, Tim Jacobs, Jack Keating and

    Tony Fleming.

    Trustees Absent with Cause: Paul Buehler and Dave

    Eisenberg.Community Members Present: Mary Derrick, Amos &

    Winsome Fye, and Mary Hughes

    President B. Derrick called the meeting to order at 7:05

    PM. There was a quorum to conduct business.

    Secretarys Report: Tricia Douville

    The minutes of the August 2011 board meeting were re-

    viewed. Trustee Keating made a motion to accept the

    minutes. Trustee Dengler seconded the motion and it

    passed unanimously.

    Treasurers Report: Lillian Fazio Trustee Fazio distributed copies of the Balance Sheet,

    Expenses by Vendor and Profit and Loss statement prior

    to the meeting.

    No new assessments have come in and there is approxi-

    mately $15,000 outstanding. The attorney is sending

    out the notice of intent to record a lien to the 2011 de-

    linquent members.

    A proposed 2012 budget was also handed out.

    ACCC: Michael Boddie (not present), Chairperson

    Trustee Keating reported that the last meeting was short

    and two homeowners attended seeking approvals which

    were granted. Committee members were again asked fora list of vacant and foreclosed houses so the MCA can de-

    termine which mortgage companies and banks are re-

    sponsible for yard and home maintenance.

    Communications Committee: Tim Jacobs, Chairperson

    Trustee Jacobs reported that he did an informal review

    of list serv email addresses and he believes that there

    are approximately 120 homeowners using the list serv.

    Trustee Douville suggested that the 2013 assessment

    letter be rewritten to encourage homeowners to join

    the list serv.

    Trustee Fleming reported that there was a glitch onthe website Adrotate but he was able to fix it and the

    two paid ads are paying for the cost of the website.

    Trustee Jacobs reported that he is paying $9 a month for

    the ACCC Sharepoint. He was encouraged to get with

    the treasurer to have the MCA take over the pay-

    ments.

    Facilities Committee: Richard Dengler and David

    Eisenberg, Co-Chairpersons

    Trustee Fazio was thanked for spending at least three

    days weeding the entire back hill of the pool area.

    There are trees and limbs down in the area behind the

    pool which damaged some fencing. Trustee Dengler

    received one estimate ($2,785) to remove the huge tree

    that caught horizontally high in some other trees, but it

    does not appear to have come from a tree on MCA

    property. Trustee Dengler made a motion to have the

    common grounds surveyed. Trustee Keating seconded

    the motion and it passed unanimously. Trustee Keatingwill see if he has a surveyor that can give us a quote for

    the work. If the common grounds layout exists, if we

    find it and give that to the surveyors it will reduce the

    price of marking the common grounds. Mary Hughes to

    give the plat to Trustee Derrick.

    Trustee Dengler will no longer chair the Facilities Com-

    mittee after the new board convenes and he reminded

    the board that a new chair will be needed.

    The outside border of the tennis courts needs 11-13

    cubic yards of good dirt to prevent mud and shore up

    the base of the courts. Trustee Dengler made a motion

    to have Brickman deliver 11 cubic yards of screened top

    soil to the tennis court at a cost of $700. Trustee Dou-ville seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.

    The top soil will also need to be spread and Trustee

    Dengler will coordinate that work.

    The deadfall and limbs outside the playground will be

    removed later this week by Adirondack for $485.

    Pool Committee: Paul Buehler, Chairperson (not pre-

    sent)

    The Dog Day swim will be from noon to 5 pm on Sat-

    urday, September 17.

    The pool cover needs to be put on earlier than last year.

    Trustee Buehler will be asked to contact Lighthouse tocoordinate the job.

    (Continued on page 11)

    area when work is completed.

    12202 Mt. Pleasant Drive Neighbor complaint regarding

    missing gutter. Letter to be sent.

    12300 Mt. Pleasant Drive - Request for approval for instal-

    lation of a wooden deck over concrete pad. P. Pettitt

    made a motion to approve the request. T. Byrd sec-

    onded the motion and it passed unanimously.

    The next meeting of the ACCC will be Thursday, August 4,

    2011 at 7:00 PM at Deerfield Community Center. The

    meeting adjourned at 7:45 pm.

    (Continued from page 9)

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 11 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    Social Committee: Carla Bowen (not present), Chairper-

    son

    The Labor Day Luau-Potluck was a big success. The Dou-

    ville family was thanked for their help.

    Security Committee: Richard Dengler, Chairperson

    The van which has been parked on Cedarbrook Lane for

    several months with flat tires now has three $50 tick-

    ets.

    There was an attempted break-in to a home on Silver-

    birch, but the owner scared the perpetrator who fled

    the scene.

    The Neighborhood Watch List was given to the police,

    but Trustee Dengler has received no further informa-

    tion. Trustee Fleming reported that Officer Wilson,

    Prince Georges County Police, wanted to be added to

    the list serv. Trustee Dengler is resigning as Chairperson of the Secu-

    rity Committee so a new Chairperson will be needed

    after the new board convenes in October.

    Tennis Committee: Lillian Fazio, Chairperson

    Trustee Fazio purchased new tennis nets and roller

    dryers for about $400.

    The gate is not being locked and there have been re-

    ports of kids skateboarding on the courts and one of

    the nets was set on fire. Trustee Fazio would like signs

    put up asking people to lock the gates. Trustee Dengler

    will look for the signs which used to be on the fence.

    Mr. Keister submitted a written clarification of his re-port on the new surface of the tennis courts as printed

    in the July 12 meeting minutes: There are substantial

    puddles behind the baselines of courts 3 and 4. How-

    ever they are within the guidelines of what is stated in

    the contract, so we have no recourse. The guidelines,

    in my opinion, were too lenient with regard to standing

    water. Im sure that tennis centers would not approve

    a contract that allows for such low spots. When it be-

    comes necessary to do the courts again, hopefully the

    contract will not be so lenient.

    Governing Documents Committee: Tony Fleming, Chair-

    person

    Trustee Fleming has the complete set of governing docu-

    ments which will be given to the administrative assistantfor printing for resale packages and sale.

    NEW BUSINESS

    Annual Meeting is Sunday, September 25 at 2 PM at

    the Montpelier Arts Center. Trustee Douville has made

    arrangements for a projector and screen.

    As there are only seven members running for election,

    the Governing Documents state that the Board should

    appoint members to fill the vacant positions. There will

    be no write-in line on the ballot because the nominee

    form asks potential trustees to certify that they will

    abide by specific rules if elected. Nomination forms will

    be brought to the meeting for any member who wishes

    to be considered for the vacant positions. The new

    board can then review any nomination forms and ap-

    point the new members.

    Trustee Derrick encouraged board members to attend

    the 4th

    Annual Conference for Community Leaders, a

    free event at the Sports and Learning Complex on Sat-

    urday, September 17.

    A survey is being conducted of Montpelier for a new

    water line. Several members discussed the poor condi-

    tion of streets in Montpelier and suggested that M.

    Lehman be contacted to ensure that Montpelier is put

    on the list of communities in need of road repair. Trustee Derrick thanked the 2011 Board of Trustees for

    the great job that they did this year and reminded all

    that new Chairpersons will be needed for the Facilities

    and Security Committees.

    The next board meeting will be held on Tuesday, October

    11, 2011 at 7:00 PM at Deerfield Recreation Center, pre-

    school room. The motion was made and seconded to

    adjourn at 8:12pm. The motion passed unanimously.

    (Continued from page 10)

    ACCC REPORT

    Deerfield Community Center

    Meeting Minutes of September 1, 2011

    Committee Members Present: Michael Boddie, Brian Den-

    nis, Jack Keating, Pauline Pettitt, Diana Sowle and Tim

    Shrewsbury.

    Committee Members Absent: Toni Byrd and Ron Lenart.

    Community Members Present: M. Hughes.

    The meeting was called to order at 7:09 PM. T. Shrewsbury

    made a motion to accept the July 2011 minutes. The motion

    was seconded by P. Pettitt and passed unanimously.

    Old Business:

    12203 Brittany Lane D. Sowle reported that the hole has

    been repaired and the house repainted and it is looking

    much better.

    12804 Cedarbrook The yard has been cleared of

    burned debris and looks much better.

    8814 Gramercy Lane Letters redated and mailed forgiv-

    ing this fine and a similar fine on 8730 Oxwell Lane.

    9314 Montpelier Drive Attorney will be contacted for

    additional action (no paperwork regarding the States

    plan to fix the fence and algae was not removed from

    house).

    8900 Montpelier Drive Department of Environmental

    Resources to be contacted again regarding the gutter

    (Continued on page 12)

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 12 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    and yardwork.9302 Montpelier Lane J. Keating will check to see if the

    shed is still standing.

    12202 Mt. Pleasant Drive A cease and desist will be

    sent regarding missing gutter.

    8911 Royal Ridge Lane Department of Environmental

    Resources will be notified again concerning grass and

    branches at the vacant house.

    12503 Silverbirch Lane Owner responded that repairs

    are being undertaken.

    New Business:

    8807 Oxwell Lane Homeowners requested approval to

    replace their roof which was damaged in the recentstorm. The color will be charcoal and there will be a

    dumpster in the driveway for 4-5 days. The request

    was approved.

    12302 Silverbirch Lane Homeowner requested approval

    of a split rail fence and brick walkway. B. Dennis made

    a motion to approve the request provided that the

    wire mesh be placed inside the fence and the place-

    ment of the fence be at the back of the house. The

    motion was approved unanimously.

    8906 Briardale Lane A request to install an 8 x 12 shed

    was approved as long as the height does not exceed 10feet.

    12342 Shadetree Lane The complaint regarding a board-

    ing house with a boat parked in the driveway and cars

    in the street is not a covenant violation at present.

    Boats are allowed in driveways until November 1 and

    the home is occupied by related individuals.

    The ACCC was asked to consider a request that covered

    trailers such as one equivalent in size to an SUV be given

    the same consideration as covered cars in driveways

    which are allowed to be parked in driveways year round.

    The committee reviewed the covenants and agreed that

    a camper, trailer, utility trailer, etc. is not a car and can-

    not be kept in the driveway after November 1. B. Dennismade a motion, which T. Shrewsbury seconded, that

    campers, trailers, boats, utility trailers, RVs may not be

    kept under cover in driveways 365 days of the year. The

    motion passed unanimously.

    The next meeting of the ACCC will be Thursday, October

    6, 2011 at 7:00 PM at Deerfield Community Center. The

    meeting adjourned at 7:50 pm.

    (Continued from page 11)

    TREASURERS REPORT

    BALANCE SHEET

    FOR

    MONTPELIER COMMUNITY

    ASSOCIATION, INC.

    SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 13 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    Montpelier Community Association Profit and Loss Statement

    Continued

    Net IncomeNet Income

    Add Emergency Contacts to YourDriver's License

    Maryland drivers can now add up to three

    emergency contacts to their driver's license

    record so police will know who to call if an

    accident occurs. The emergency con-

    tact information is available only to author-

    ized law enforcement personnel. You

    can add your emergency contacts (Name,

    email or phone) at the MVA web page http://

    mva.maryland.gov/. Select Online Services-

    More

    The entire process takes less than 10 min-

    utes. You will need to provide your Driver's

    License number, date of birth and PIN or last

    4 digits of your social security number.

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 14 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    Weekly curbside

    collection of yard

    waste is collected

    year round. Yard

    waste includes grass

    clippings, leaves,

    small branches, brush and Christmas trees. For moreinformation about yard waste collection, call (301) 952-

    7630.

    Yard waste must be placed in securely tied, heavy-duty

    paper or plastic bags, or heavy-duty trash cans with han-

    dles and a secure lid. Cardboard boxes are not accept-

    able containers.

    Limbs must not exceed four (4) feet in length and three

    (3) inches in diameter and must be securely tied in bun-

    dles. Bundles of limbs and bags of dry grass and leaves

    must weigh less than 60 pounds. Wet grass and leaves

    must weigh less than 25 pounds.

    Once the yard waste is collected, it is taken to the Prince

    George's County Prince George's County Yard Waste

    Composting Facility. This County-owned and operated

    composting facility processes over 50,000 tons of yard

    waste annually

    To report a missed collection or register a complaint

    about your yard waste collection, please call (301) 952-

    7630.

    As our autumn leaves begin to fall, please remember

    to dispose of your leaves responsibly. If you rake

    and bag the leaves, the County will pick them up

    weekly (Wednesdays). Dont forget our Helping

    Hands (page 22) if you need to hire someone to help

    you with this chore.

    Yard Waste Collection

    Wet and decaying leaves are slippery and dangerous. Ifyou are able, clean up the leaves that have fallen iinto

    the street in front of your house. Do it for the safety of

    our kids who walk to school in our streets. Do it for your

    neighbors who live down the hill from you before they

    have to deal with everyone elses leaves when the rain

    brings them to the bottom of the hill. Do it for yourself,

    because it makes your home look more appealing and

    youre a good neighbor.

    There is NO vacuum leaf service.

    NEVER RAKE LEAVES to the STREET or CURB.

    DUMPING DEBRIS AND RAKING

    LEAVES INTO A STORM DRAIN IS

    ILLEGAL

    Environmental Enforcement(301) 883-5824 or (301) 883-5833

    The County is required to reduce pollutants to its

    storm drain systems and waterways. To meet this

    requirement, the county uses a cooperative ap-

    proach to gain compliance. This approach empha-

    sizes public education for preventing pollution prob-

    lems.

    To keep our communities clean and environmentally

    safe, public participation is needed. You should be

    on the lookout for common pollution problems such

    as illegal dumping, unusual discharges into streams

    or storm drains. Please report pollution problems

    immediately to ESD by calling (301) 95-CLEAN or

    (301) 883-5833.

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 15 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    Acid Car Batteries Fluorescent Light Bulbs Oil-Based Paints

    Automotive Fluids and Fuels Gas Grill Propane Tanks Photographic Chemicals

    Cleaning Agents Helium Balloon Tanks Poisons

    Cooking Oil Household Batteries Solvents, Varnishes and Stains

    Driveway Sealers Insecticides, Herbicides & Fertilizers Swimming Pool Chemicals

    Fire Extinguishers Mercury & Other Hazardous Materials

    JOINAMONTPELIER COMMITTEE

    Name: _________________________________________

    Address: _________________________________________

    Phone(evenings) or email: ________________________________

    Please mail to:MCA

    P.O. Box 2503

    Laurel, MD 20709-2503

    Architectural Control

    and compliance

    Communications

    Election committee Finance

    Facilities (Grounds)

    Governing Documents

    Pool Operations

    Nominating

    Security

    Social

    Traffic

    Benevolent Fund

    ...or call a board member to volunteer. Phone numbers/email addresses are listed on page 3.

    Household Hazardous Waste Acceptance SiteThe Household Hazardous Waste Acceptance Site is located at the Brown Station Road Sanitary Landfill, is open

    and free of charge to County citizens and residents who need to dispose of harmful household waste.

    COLLECTIONFORSENIORCITIZENSANDTHE DISABLEDResidents who qualify for this service should call (301) 883-5045 to schedule an appointment for at-

    home collection of household hazardous waste. To qualify, no one living in the home can be under 65years of age or be physically able to transport the material to the Countys facility.

    Operation

    To ensure the proper handling and disposal of the hazardous materials that are collected at the Household Haz-

    ardous Waste Acceptance Site, the County has contracted with a licensed hazardous waste disposal company. The

    professional team oversees the collection of items and materials at the drop-off facility as well as the community

    collection events. As an added convenience, the site is designed to be a drive through location. County residents

    do not have to leave their vehicles to dispose of their unwanted items. A licensed hazardous materials company

    professional will remove all acceptable items from your vehicle and dispose of them in an environmentally safe

    Brown Station Road Sanitary Landfill11611 White House Road

    Upper Marlboro, Maryland

    (301) 883-5045

    Hours of OperationThursday, Friday and Saturday - 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

    Sunday - Closed

    Non-commercial vehicles only

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 16 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    Holiday Food DriveLaurel-Beltsville Senior Activity Center

    October 1 through November 30

    During the holiday season, there are many ways to donate time, en-ergy and goods to to help make another person's life better. The cen-

    ter is hosting a food drive to benefit the Laurel Advocacy and Referral

    Service (LARS). LARS urgently needs non-perishable food donations.

    Useful items include: cereals, oatmeal, pastas and sauce, macaroni

    and cheese, peanut butter, canned tuna, soups, Hamburger Helper

    type meal stretchers, canned fruit and/or vegetables, and pancake mix

    (especially the type that needs only water). Pop-top items work espe-

    cially well for homeless people. Donations may be dropped off in des-

    ignated donation boxes located throughout the facility. Thank you for

    your donation.

    7120 Contee Road, Laurel 20707

    Contact:301-206-3355; TTY 301-446-6802

    Laurel-Beltsville Senior ActivityCenter

    7120 Contee RoadLaurel, MD 20707

    301-206-3350; TTY 301-446-3402

    Hours of Operation

    Mondays-Thursdays: 8 am-9 pm

    Fridays: 8 am-5 pm (evening rentals)

    Saturdays: 8 am-2 pm (evening rentals)

    Sundays: Closed (evening rentals)

    Seniors Coffee with COPSSeniors Coffee with COPSSeniors Coffee with COPSSeniors Coffee with COPS

    On Thursday, November 3rd at 1pm, there will be a Coffee with the Seniors at the new Senior Center in

    Laurel (7120 Contee Road) next to Laurel Regional Hospital. We will have a special guest speaker and a

    pot luck. Please bring along any dish that you would like to share with the group.

    We are having a canned food drive from now until November 18th. Please drop off your canned food

    donation at the District VI station4321 Sellman Rd., Beltsville, MD.

    We are also sponsoring a coat drive. Gently used coats can be dropped off at the District VI station

    from now until December 3rd.

    Officer Ken Hibbert, #3101

    Prince Georges County Police Department

    December 2December 2December 2December 2 ----December 18December 18December 18December 18

    Miracle on 34thMiracle on 34thMiracle on 34thMiracle on 34th

    StreetStreetStreetStreetAdapted by

    Mountain Community Theater from the novel by V.Davies. Based upon the Twentieth CenturyFox motion picture Miracle on 34th Street.

    Directed byDirected byDirected byDirected by Michael V. HartsfieldProduced byProduced byProduced byProduced by Maureen Rogers

    By chance, Kris Kringle, an old man in a retirementhome, gets a job working as Santa for Macy's. Krisunleashes waves of good will with Macy's customers andthe commercial world of New York City by referring par-ents to other stores to find exactly the toy their child hasasked for. Seen as deluded and dangerous by Macy's

    vocational counselor, who plots to have Kris shanghaiedto Bellevue Psychiatric Hospital, Kris ends up in a courtcompetency hearing. Especially at stake is one little girl'sbelief in Santa. In a dramatic decision, the court con-firms Kris as the true Santa, allowing Susan and count-

    less other children to experience the joy of child-hood fantasy.

    Produced by special arrangement with Dramatic

    Publishing Company. Performances Friday and Satur-day evening at 8 p.m. Tickets $13 for general admis-

    sion. Admission - students (18 and under), active dutymilitary and seniors (65 and over) is $10. For reserva-tions, call 301-617-9906 and press 2. For further infor-mation visit the web site at www.laurelmillplayhouse.orgor [email protected] or 301-452-2557.

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 17 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    Hi neighbor,

    Fall is here in all its glory! The leaves are turning shades

    of gold, bronze and rust and pots of mums are planted

    intermittently throughout the garden. Crisp tempera-

    tures infuse us with great energy to CLEAN THE GAR-

    DEN.' So what does that mean? Cut back leaves of

    plants that die off in the fall. Rake leaves off the lawn

    and trim back and reshape plants that have become too

    large and invasive for the space. This will save weeks of

    time in the Spring. Leaves that are left on the lawn can

    create a moist environment that kills the grass and

    causes mold and moss on the lawn.

    The Fourth Season:

    WINTER

    Sometimes the best

    view of the winter gar-

    den is through the win-dow toward the back

    yard bird feeder. Watch-

    ing birds take advantage

    of the food and water

    you put out is a great

    way to spend the winter

    months. The red cardi-

    nals are territorial and

    loyal both to each other

    and to you. The bright red male cardinals will sit in the

    trees and survey their territory. The females are at-

    tracted to suet to build up extra fat and be ready toincrease the family size in Spring. Instead of mixed

    seed, offer black oil sunflower seeds. They are packed

    with the fat and protein birds need to stay warm. To

    discourage the squirrels from eating all of your seed,

    put baffles (metal or plastic collars) on the posts and

    place feeders at least 10 feet from structures or

    branches of tall trees.

    Often harder to find than food, water, especially mov-

    ing water, attracts birds of all kinds. I have just seen a

    pump attached to a bamboo tube that can be anchored

    to a barrel or pail for under $40.00 that can be attrac-

    tive and do the job well.

    Leave the seed heads ofEchinacea (purple cone flower)

    for the yellow finches to feast on. You can also break up

    these seed heads, plant in three inches of good soil and

    start new plants.

    Tips on designing new garden plots

    Observe your garden. Note the shade/sun areas. Don't

    fight nature. Pick the plants which are appropriate for

    the area. The homes in Montpelier are terraced, some-

    times resulting in water from one neighbor's property

    draining down into your garden. This can work to your

    advantage if you pick plants that are happy in damp

    ground. Several come to mind: Hibiscus, with flowers

    as big as dinner plates in white, pink and red; Lobelia,with delicate red petals and will self seed; Lillies that

    bloom for several weeks in mid-summer; Cinnamon

    Fern; and Chelone with it's swirls of satin pink buds.

    Trumpet vine attracts hummingbirds and Wisteria can

    give you the look of the old south. Both can become

    gargantuan so keep their size in check. The more closely

    you base your decisions on meeting the needs of your

    plants (light requirements, hardiness, soil and moisture

    levels) and which plants look good together, the more

    successful your garden will be.

    Pests in the garden

    Voles, also known as field mice eat the roots of many

    plants. If you are having that problem, cut the tunnels

    or tracks in the lawn with a knife and throw in smashed

    garlic. Voles don't like the smell. If you can find THE

    MOLE PLANT, buy two or three and plant in the af-

    fected area and voles will pack up and leave.

    Chipmunks. These critters steal the bird seed and store

    it in various places, such as flexible pipe, down spouts,

    and garages. I spread moth balls around the garage,

    shed and into plastic pipe.

    Thanks for all your comments. Questions? E mail

    [email protected] or check the Home and Gar-den Information Center website: www.hgic.umd.edu

    web site for other timely tips.

    Gloria Hynes, Master Gardener

    Prince Georges County

    GLO in the GARDEN

    Photography by Gloria Hynes

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 18 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    MONTPELIER COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONArchitectural Control Committee

    Approval FormMember No: Date:

    Name:Address: Telephone: Email:

    House Type: Framingham Jamestown Gramercy Eton

    Type of Alteration:Addition/modification of basic structure Fence Shed Siding/Paint Deck Other (Including PODS, Dumpsters)Describe the alteration in detail. Information about dimension, materials and design must be included with this form or theproject will not be considered by the ACC. Include any statement of special circumstances that may require deviation from

    established and published guidelines. Any changes to the exterior of your home, including paint color, siding and win-dows, will require the approval of the neighbors on each side and in back of your home. Siding must blend harmoniouslywith the neighborhood. The neighbors residing across the street must also be contacted if the project, when completed, can be seen from their property. Major landscaping projects such as retaining walls, etc. must also be approved. Plans formajor alterations must be submitted to the ACCC two weeks before the meeting. Applications for approval of PODS,dumpsters, or similar structures should check the Other box and must include the maximum time that the structure willbe on the lot.

    Attach the following:

    Note (1) Copy of plat of your property showing location on your property of the requested alteration.Note (2) Detailed scale drawing or copy of blue prints of proposed alteration.I understand that these items are needed for the committee to make an informed decision about the requested

    alteration. When completed we agree to allow the ACCC to inspect this project.

    Signature of requester

    Neighbor comments:

    Name (Print) Address Concur/Non-concur Signature

    Name (Print) Address Concur/Non-concur Signature

    Name (Print) Address Concur/Non-concur Signature

    Name (Print) Address Concur/Non-concur Signature

    The homeowner requesting approval of a project (requester) will contact the neighbor(s) residing on each side of hishome to obtain their concurrence or comments. In the event the requester resides on a corner lot, the neighbor re-

    siding adjacent to his rear property line must be contacted. The neighbors residing across the street must also becontacted if the project, when completed, can be seen from their property. Space for their name(s), address, concur-rence or comments is provided above. If the required neighbor approvals are not obtained by the requester the

    ACC will contact the neighbors to get their comments which will delay processing of the request. Neighbor com-ments will be considered by the ACC in making a decision. Those neighbors that non-concur in a project will benotified in writing of the action taken by the ACC and advised of their right to appeal. If a project requiring ACCapproval is started without such approval it shall be considered in violation of the covenants of the Association.Mail completed forms to MCA ACC Committee, P.O. Box 2503, Laurel, MD 20709.

    Note (1) Prince George's County law requires a building permit for all structural changes or additions to your home.

    For ArchitecturalCommittee Use OnlyProject No:

    Date Received:

    Letter Sent:

    Revised 1207

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 19 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    Replacing your fence or driveway?

    STOP and SUBMIT

    an ACCC Approval Request Form first.Covenants are enforced and fines are levied and col-

    lected. If you are planning any work to the exterior of

    your home, first fill out the ACCC Approval RequestForm located in every Montpelier Todaynewsletter and

    on-line at www.montpelieronline.org. Submit to:

    MCA

    ATTN: Architectural Control & Compliance Committee

    P.O. Box 2503

    Laurel, MD 20709

    Or by email to [email protected]. Meetings are

    the first Thursday of every month at 7 PM at Deerfield

    Community Center.

    ALL EXTERIOR CONSTRUCTION, ADDITIONS,

    ALTERATIONS, SHEDS, FENCES, (INCLUDING

    REPLACEMENT) REQUIRE PRIOR APPROVALNo construction, addition, or alteration of a Montpelier

    home shall be made without prior approval (see ap-

    proval form on preceding page) from the Architectural

    Control & Compliance Committee. This includes satel-

    lite dish installation. All exterior colors and materials

    shall blend harmoniously with the neighboring dwell-

    ings. IF YOU ARE REPLACING YOUR EXISTING ROOF

    OR SIDING WITH THE SAME COLOR AND NO ALTERA-

    TIONS, YOU MAY PROCEED WITHOUT PRIOR AP-

    PROVAL. All other changes/replacements require

    PRIOR APPROVAL. Proceeding without prior approval

    shall constitute a covenant violation subject to en-

    forcement, including fines.

    BOAT, CAMPER, RV, TRAILER ENFORCEMENTBoats, campers, RVs, trailers must be in storage by

    November 1.

    Boats, campers, RVs, and camping trailers must be in

    storage from November 1 through March 31. Viola-

    tions can result in a fine of $250 per month.

    USE OF PODS, DUMPSTERS, ETC.The ACCC requests notification before placing a POD,

    dumpster, or similar structure on any lot. Please in-

    clude the maximum time that the structure will be on

    the lot. Use an Approval Form for notification.

    RENTING YOUR HOMENOMONTPELIERHOMECANBEUSEDFORANYPURPOSEOTHER

    THAN A PRIVATE DWELLING FOR ONE FAMILY. NOTIFY YOUR

    RENTALMANAGEMENTCOMPANY.

    Printable copy of the MCA Governing Documents and the

    ACCC Approval Form can be found online:

    www.montpelieronline.org

    MONTPELIER HOMEOWNERS: ACCC COVENANT ENFORCEMENT

    MONTPELIER INFORMATION LINEMONTPELIER INFORMATION LINEMONTPELIER INFORMATION LINEMONTPELIER INFORMATION LINE

    1 888 MCA INF( 1 888 622-463 )

    Press (zero) for Community Announcements

    Press 11 for the ACCC

    Press 12 for Resale Packages

    Press 13 for the Administrative Assistant

    Press 14 for Social Events & RSVPsMessages can be left at all extensions except for the

    Announcement Line .

    Remember you can call the Information Line

    (1-888-622-4630) or check the website

    (www.montpelieronline.org) or call the pool (301-317-

    0106) for updates on activities that may not be in-

    cluded in the Montpelier Today newsletter.

    Join the MontpelierJoin the MontpelierJoin the MontpelierJoin the Montpelier EEEEMAILMAILMAILMAIL GGGGROUPROUPROUPROUP

    1. Connect to the Internet and enter: http://

    groups.yahoo.com/group/Montpelier

    2. Click the Button at the middle right of the screen.

    3. You will now have different steps depending whether

    or not you already have a YAHOO account:

    If you do, skip to STEP 7. If not ,click the button to cre-

    ate a new account. Enter all information.

    4. Enter the Code numbers as they appear on the screen

    and follow the directions.

    5. You MUST VERIFY your Email account.6. Once the account is verified/saved complete the FORM

    on the GROUP. Go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/

    group/Montpelier

    7. Enter your House Address or LOT number and enter

    your REAL name.

    8. Once submitted wait a few days to get your request. If

    you need it quickly or need help, please call Tim Jacobs,

    Communications Chairperson, at 240-841-2787.

    MONTPELIER WEBSITEMONTPELIER WEBSITEMONTPELIER WEBSITEMONTPELIER WEBSITE

    www.montpelieronline.org

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 20 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    Wednesday, November 2, 7 pm

    Lecture by Nate LarsonLecture by Nate LarsonLecture by Nate LarsonLecture by Nate Larson

    Artist and Photographer Nate Larson will give a talk

    about the works in the exhibition, "Geolocation" andabout his collaborative process with artist Marni Shindel-man.The 7 pm lecture is free and open to the public. Reserva-tions are requested. Please call the arts center at 301377-7800."Geolocation" is on view in the Main Gallery November 2-27.

    Annual Studio Open HouseAnnual Studio Open HouseAnnual Studio Open HouseAnnual Studio Open HouseDecember 4, 14 pmResident artists of Montpelier open their studios and offerworks priced for holiday giving.Ages:Ages:Ages:Ages:All agesFee:Fee:Fee:Fee:FREE

    301-377-7800, 410-792-0664; TTY 301-490-2329

    The Montpelier Film SeriesSaturday, December 10, 6 pm

    The DancerThe DancerThe DancerThe Dancer

    The Dancer Sweden, 2005 (G)Saturday, December 10, 2011For aspiring dancers and lovers of dance this documen-tary follows the young and gifted Katja Bjrner throughyears of intensive training at the Royal Swedish BalletSchool as she develops into an international ballet star.Filmed with an eye toward conveying the physical as-pects of dancing the pain, sweat, and tears, as well asthe exquisite beauty The Dancer captures the fiercedetermination and struggle that goes into the desire todance at the highest level. (firstrunfeatures.com)Swedish cuisine will be served.

    Tickets for both dinner and the film are $25 and must bebought by Friday noon preceding the Saturday screening.Tickets for the film only are available for $10 on the dayof screening. Seated is limited and film only tickets maynot always be available. Seniors (60+) and arts centermembers receive a 10% discount. Call the arts center topurchase tickets with either Visa or MasterCard.

    Montpelier Cultural Arts Center9652 Muirkirk Rd, Laurel, MD 20708Gallery Hours: 10 am-5 pm, seven days a week

    History Lecture

    The Seafaring Snowdens

    Montpelier Mansion9652 Muirkirk Road

    Wednesday, November 16, 7:30pm

    Fall History Lecture Series

    Join us at 7:30 pm for a free history lecture.

    The talks are enlightening, the atmosphere is

    relaxed, and the refreshments, delicious!

    Michael Bosworth, a naval architect and

    historian specializing in the War of 1812 and

    Federal Period, will present a his research on the

    early history of the Snowden family in Maryland,

    focusing on the seafaring aspects, John Contee

    as a Marine, the early United States Navy, and

    the War of 1812.

    Free

    Contact Info: Tel.: (301) 377-7817, TTY:

    (301) 699-2544

    www.pgparks.com

    Winter BreakStories & Crafts

    of Long Ago

    Tuesday, December 27

    Montpelier Mansion

    Hear holiday and winter stories from longago, told by costumed interpreters,

    make crafts, and more.

    Ages: Preschool & elementary schoolage students

    11am for preschoolers,1pm for elementary school students

    Cost: $2/residents, $3/non-residents

    Reservations recommended.Call (301) 377-7817

    (301) 377-7817, TTY: (301) 699-2544www.pgparks.com

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 21 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    Montpelier Mansion

    Holiday Candlelight ToursFriday, Dec. 9, 6 to 9 pm, Saturday, Dec. 10, 5

    to 9 pmFriday-Teachers Free! Saturday-Police, FireFighters, EMTs and Active Military Free!See the mansion decorated in traditional greens &lit by candlelight. Local garden clubs decorate therooms. Live music by area performers, light re-freshments. Holiday activities for kids. $3 adults,

    $1 children 6-17 (free, ages 5 & under). No res-ervations.

    Holiday TeasThursday, Dec. 15 andFriday, Dec. 16, 3:30 pm,Saturday, Dec. 17, 1:30

    pmEnjoy a relaxing atmos-phere while indulging in aprix fixe menu of fingersandwiches, scrumptious

    cakes and pastries, buttery scones and a selectionof two quality loose leaf teas, all served on chinadishes. $27.50 per person, includes gratuity andself-guided tour. Advance reservations and pay-ment required Call 301.377.7817.

    Holiday Story & Craft Time for

    KidsTuesday, Dec. 27

    11am Preschool Age, 1pm Elem. School AgeCostumed interpreters will tell seasonal stories,and kids will do seasonal crafts, while learningabout winter and the holidays long ago.$2-3 per child. Reservations suggested.

    Laurel Museum

    Holiday House TourSaturday, Dec. 10, 2-6 pm

    Since 1976Please join us for an exclusive look inside some ofLaurels homes and buildings. See lovely decora-tions, a variety of architecture, an array of renova-tions, and learn a little history, too. Tour begin atthe Laurel Museum.Tickets will be available at several Main Street

    shops as well as the Museum.Tickets are $15 in advance and $17 the day of thetour. Day of tour tickets available only at the Mu-seum.

    Laurel Museum ShopHoliday Open HouseFriday-Sunday, Dec 2-4The Open House will featureGrandma's Cookies from OldenTimes baked by our volun-teers, fresh Christmas Wreaths,

    and new Laurel related items.

    Annual New Years Celebration at

    the Laurel MuseumThursday, December 29

    1:30-3:30Join us a the Laurel Museum for our Annual New

    Years Celebration. Fun for children of all ages!$5 per child, Reservations Suggested

    Montpelier Mansion:

    (301) 377-7817; TTY (301) 699-2544

    [email protected]

    www.pgparks.com

    Laurel Historical Society

    301.725.7975

    [email protected]

    www.laurelhistoricalsociety.org

    Wintertime at Laurel's Museums!

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    Advertise your businessIN COLOR on

    www.montpelieronline.org.

    Ads will run for two months for only $30.00 and are renew-able for 2-month periods (2011-May-June/July-August/

    September-October/November-December).

    One advertisement will be displayed on each page of the web-site in random rotation.

    Advertisers (community or resident businesses) will be re-sponsible for providing finished graphic:

    280px wide x 120-350px high 300 dpi resolution PSP or EPS (Photoshop formats) preferred, but .JPG,

    .TIFF, .GIF also acceptable No animated or transparent graphics Have your own website? Include the link! Design services available at an addition $20 /hour.

    Graphics received by the 15th

    of the month previous to therotation period (i.e., June 15

    thfor July-August rotation) will be

    published for the full 2-month period.

    Statistics on impressions and click-through rates for each two-month billing period available upon request (first reportsavailable July 1).

    Space is limited to ensure optimal visibility for ads.MCA reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason.Contact Mary Hughes, [email protected], 888 622-4630 x103 for more information.

    A NEW Way to

    Advertise !

    Advertise on MontpelierOnline.org

    Name Phone Age Jobs

    Helping Hands are younger Montpelieresidents willing to work for other residents at hourly or

    fixed rates arranged between you and the helper. There is no charge for a Helping Hands

    listing. Please call 888 622-4630 x103 to be included on the next

    Helping Hands registry or if any updates are needed on your listing.

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 23 Nov.-Dec. 2011

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 25 Nov.-Dec. 2011

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 26 Nov.-Dec. 2011

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 27 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    MontpelierResidentMontpelierResidentMontpelierResidentMontpelierResidentMontpelierResidentMontpelierResidentMontpelierResidentMontpelierResidentPhone:301-776-2355/301-221-0745Fax: 301-776-2355

    E-mail: [email protected]

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 28 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    Open 6:30 a.m.Open 6:30 a.m.Open 6:30 a.m.Open 6:30 a.m.---- 6:30 p.m.6:30 p.m.6:30 p.m.6:30 p.m.Childcare: Infants through preschoolChildcare: Infants through preschoolChildcare: Infants through preschoolChildcare: Infants through preschool

    Preschool: Ages 3 and 4 years oldPreschool: Ages 3 and 4 years oldPreschool: Ages 3 and 4 years oldPreschool: Ages 3 and 4 years oldBefore and After School careBefore and After School careBefore and After School careBefore and After School care

    Summer ProgramSummer ProgramSummer ProgramSummer ProgramJune 13June 13June 13June 13 ---- August 12August 12August 12August 12

    240240240240----568568568568----9352935293529352 www.openarmslaurel.orgwww.openarmslaurel.orgwww.openarmslaurel.orgwww.openarmslaurel.org

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 29 Nov.-Dec. 2011

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    MONTPELIER TODAY 30 Nov.-Dec. 2011

    No Job Too Small Free Estimates

    Alexs ElectricalService Inc.

    301-490-2484Fax 301-490-3170

    All work performed by aMASTER Electrician

    Servicing Laurel and surroundingcommunities for the past 25 years !

    Montpelier Specialist

    Licensed & Bonded State Masters Lic#1291

    Residential & Commerical

    We charge by the job,not by the hour!

    WSSD #71122 MD 24148

    24 Hour Service

    410 798-6408

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