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December 2021 and January 2022, Vol. 48, Issue 1 Watergate at Landmark Unit Owners Association

Keeping the Grinch Away Page 7

Resident Profile

Pa g 12 Page 12

Annual Re-registration Page 8

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571 471 5822

December 2021 and January 2022

www.myCCRonline.com

Inside the Wheel President’s Update

Holiday Hours

Storage Units

Travel Amid COVID

Exercise Classes

Whenever wintry weather comes to WAL, our community transforms into a beautiful winter wonderland. So the next time snow falls, strap on your winter gear and venture outside! You might even make a snow angel or snowman while you’re out there! Or, if the weather’s too cold, grab your favorite hot drink and take in the views through your balcony doors or on the balcony.

Annual Re-registration

Photo: Ula Chomicka

December Calendar

January Calendar

News

Upcoming Activities

Resident Profile

Pet Contest Winners

Happy Yalda

Robotic Takeover

Graduating Picklers

Activities Recap

Wheel is a publication of the Watergate at Landmark Unit Owners Association December 2021 & January 2022, Vol. 48, Issue 1 Published 11 times annually

In This Issue...

SNOWY WEATHER

For publication consideration, please submit original content (e.g. articles, photos) to commgr@watergateatlandmark.com. High-quality photos are recommended (300 dpi or greater). Management makes content decisions and it is understood that revisions and edits will be made for space and publication style. Publication is not guaranteed.

The Wheel does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for any information, product or service represented within our magazine. Anyone using the information provided by The Wheel whether medical, legal, business or other, does so at their own risk and by using such information agrees to indemnify The Wheel from any and all liability, loss, injury, damages, costs and expenses (including legal fees and expenses) arising from such use.

2021 - 2022 Watergate of Landmark Board of Directors Phil Schrock President Eileen Greenberg Vice President Alex Davila Director Rudnaldo Hodges Director Robert Lee Director

Luke Lopez Director Theresa Mulrane Director Joseph Vecchio Director Gregory Wade Director

Watergate at Landmark Officers Susan Bouldin Treasurer December 2021 and January 2022

Vivian Moran Secretary

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PRESIDENT’S UPDATE By Phil Schrock, Board President • •

•

Residents welcomed our new GM at last month’s Meet and Greet. Photo: Hilda Kroll

December is upon us and another year is fast drawing to a close. Last month many of us celebrated Thanksgiving Day with friends and family. As we eagerly anticipate end-of-year festivities, your Board joins me in wishing all residents the best for the 2022 New Year! The end of a year is also a time of reflection. We’ve spent the past two years enduring a global pandemic – and our “globe” is Watergate! As many look back with nostalgia and long for the way it used to be, endurance, patience and resilience help us look forward and adapt to an everchanging “next normal.” Numerous activities – Youth, Pet, Social, Art and Entertainment and others that were curtailed during the pandemic – have been revitalized during 2021. And more will flourish as we move into 2022! I compliment the Board, Management and the many committees and their members who have contributed to the successes of this past year. All play an important role in ensuring that Watergate at Landmark remains safe and well maintained, thus preserving its status as a premier community. With that in mind, let’s take this opportunity to review some proPage 4

jects, activities, accomplishments and improvements our community has seen in 2021—large and small, completed and ongoing. Here then are some: • New General Manager. Through the combined efforts of the Executive Search Panel, a professional services company and the Board, Watergate successfully recruited Gregory L. Gardner to take the Management helm in November. • Owners re-elected Alex Davila and Theresa Mulrane as continuing members, and Butch Hodges and Joe Vecchio as new members of the Board. • Board appointed Greg Wade to fill a vacancy on the Board of Directors. • FY2022 Budget – adopted budget with a conservative increase of only 1.35% in condominium and garage assessments. • Funds transfer – $898,000 of the Association's audited FY2020 “Unappropriated equity balance” (unspent year-end funds) transferred by the Board to Replacement Reserves. • Capital Area Food Bank Drive – The firm that picked up Watergate’s donated food said it best:

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“The amount of food coming from you all for the Food Bank Drive is staggering … I am very pleased and proud of the effort. Thank you!” Juneteenth – The Board approved the inclusion of Juneteenth as a part of the employee benefits. Wi-Fi internet service – Community Center, Indoor Pool, Fitness Center, Lower Terrace, Outdoor Pool, gazebos and Party Rooms. LED lighting – approved proposal to retrofit storage room and adjacent area lighting with LED lighting. Enhanced Amenities:  Fitness Center – Deep cleaning during pandemic; new equipment added at year-end.  Outdoor and Indoor Pools – fully reopened  Racquet Club – FOB access; expanded hours of 6:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m.; implemented online reservation system; eliminated hours worked by the activities part-time contract personnel; significantly reduced or eliminated fees; approved replacement of a new HVAC unit in July (delivery and installation late due to supply chain delays) Patrol Services – We entered into an agreement with a leading security and facility services company to provide Patrol Services officers during the late-night shifts. 45th Annual Elections – appointed Election Committee early with goal of providing electronic voting options Board and Committees – in-person, virtual or partially virtual meetings. Dryer Vent Cleaning – reinstituted service after pandemic delays; inspect and clean individual unit clothing dryer vents and their associated common element ventilation systems FY2021 and FY2022 HVAC Coil Cleaning – secured a six-year contract to clean the residents’ HVAC coils Balcony Restoration – completed Buildings 2 & 4; work currently occurring on Building 1

December 2021 and January 2022

WATERGATE AT LANDMARK HOLIDAY HOURS OF OPERATION Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Observed Friday, December 24, 2021 Saturday, December 25, 2021

New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day Observed Friday, December 31, 2021 Saturday, January 1, 2022

All Offices ................................. Closed Library ...................................... Closed Fitness Center ........... 4 a.m. – midnight Indoor Pool................ 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Racquet Club ............... 6 a.m. – 11 p.m. Shuttle Bus .......................... No Service

All Offices ................................. Closed Library....................................... Closed Fitness Center ........... 4 a.m. – midnight Indoor Pool................ 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Racquet Club ............... 6 a.m. – 11 p.m. Shuttle Bus .......................... No Service

• Balcony HVAC Utility Closet Fa-

çade – currently Building 3 (last building) • Elevator machinery replacement – completed Building 4; began Building 2; Building 3 will be final. • Reserve Study – Received a new 2021 Reserve Study in July from an experienced and qualified engineering firm. • Water seepage/infiltration – Hired an engineering firm to address water seepage/infiltration into Buildings 1 & 2 and B-1 level underground garage and expansion joint

replacements (work in progress). Assessment – Researched and identified qualified firms with industry leading structural engineering expertise to conduct building integrity/condition assessments of Watergate’s highrise buildings; appropriate method for inspecting our buildings and guidance on how to manage emerging risk related to our residential community is work in progress • Numerous other operational, maintenance and service contracts secured and renewed. • Structural

Martin Luther King Day Monday, January 17, 2022 Resident Services and Management ................... Normal Hours Activities Office ....... Reopens Tuesday Library............................ Normal Hours Fitness Center ........... 4 a.m. – midnight Indoor Pool................ 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Racquet Club ............... 6 a.m. – 11 p.m. Shuttle Bus ..................... Normal Hours

Upon reflection of the “year in review,” I’m reminded of just how large our enterprise is. People often refer to Watergate at Landmark as a small city. Watergate consists of 1,460 units, sits on approximately 38 beautiful acres and has several thousand residents representing a diversity of backgrounds, cultures and nationalities. I wish each of you an enjoyable holiday season and the very best in the coming new year!

“...slow down and give thanks for the many good things we have in life…”

December 2021 and January 2022

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BELOW THE RED LINE STORAGE UNIT REMINDERS By Javier Ortiz, Chief of Patrol Services

Whether you’re getting out decorations or trying to find space to put seasonal items, consider using the storage units located in the basement of each high-rise building. Here are some reminders that Patrol Services wants to share with the community regarding its usage: • Each unit has a storage unit whose number corresponds

to its unit number.

• Please be certain that you are the authorized storage unit

•

Be certain to store items no higher than 24” from the ceiling and to secure your storage lockers with a lock. Photo: Javier Ortiz

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• •

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user for the locker where your items are stored. If not, you run the risk of the authorized user discarding your items at any time. Basement storage lockers must be kept locked at all times and storage in these lockers is at the user’s risk. Even if you are not using the storage area, we encourage you to lock up your corresponding unit to avoid unauthorized use. Occupants may not store any article in their storage lockers or units that may create a fire hazard or be in violation of the appropriate municipal laws and regulations. Items must be less than 24" from the ceiling in the storage lockers. To assist residents with knowing the clearance level, red tape has been placed on all storage bins by Maintenance. Anything stored above the red tape is a fire code and WAL rule violation. Management does not empty storage units. Should you need to empty your assigned storage unit, please discard items according to our community rules.

December 2021 and January 2022

GETTING OUT OF TOWN TRAVEL TIPS AMID PANDEMIC By Rashawnda Daniels-Atkinson

Prep Your Unit

There are several things you’ll want to do in your unit to prepare it for your absence. Make sure all trash has been emptied to deter vermin and returning home to an unpleasant odor. Throw out any food that may expire while you’re gone. Also, turn off any water valves in case there is a leak or tier shut down. For extended vacations, consider adjusting the thermostat. Heating and cooling company Dominion Services Company states that “a good rule of thumb in Virginia is set your A/C at 80 degrees in the summer...and heating at 55 degrees during the winter.” Your preferred thermostat setting may vary based on how far from home you’ll be, how long you will be away from home and whether you have a programmable thermostat.

While You’re Away from Home..

Check for COVID-related policies and recommendations that apply to your destination before traveling. Photo: Pixabay

Going to visit family for the holidays or taking a winter vacation? Keep these traveling tips in mind before leaving.

Once You Return Home

Planning a Trip?

The CDC recommends checking how COVID-19 is currently affecting your destination. They may have certain restrictions, mask mandates, quarantining requirements or proof of vaccination rules, so be sure to research them and know whether the area is under low, moderate, substantial or high COVID-19 transmission rates. Pack any necessary documentation (e.g. vaccination cards) or masks that cover both the nose and mouth. If you’re flying, check any requirements that your airline has for its passengers. The CDC also asks those who are not fully vaccinated to get a viral test one to three days before going on your trip. Be mindful that policies and recommendations can change while you are traveling, so prepare to adjust if needed.

Before You Leave

Per the CDC recommendations, familiarize yourself with the current state and local recommendations and policies for returning home after traveling. Should you experience COVID-19 symptoms, isolate yourself and get tested ASAP. If you are unvaccinated, the CDC suggests you get tested with a viral test within 3-5 days after your trip. In addition, the CDC encourages travelers whom are not fully vaccinated self-quarantine at home for a full seven days, even if the viral test yields a negative test result.

Winter Group Exercise Schedule Session Runs from January 1 - March 31, 2022 Call 703-370-7092 to purchase your class today!

There are several suggestions residents can use prior to leaving for their planned trips this season. As soon as you know your departure and return dates, provide this information to Resident Services. This helps for communication purposes in the case of natural, man-made or maintenance emergencies. Also, make arrangements for incoming packages and mail so that mail does not pile up in your mailbox or in front of your unit door. You may want to suspend or alter subscription-based deliveries (e.g. groceries, medication) to accommodate your travel schedule. For contractors and service providers who frequently visit your unit, update the Frequent Visitor List to prevent service interruptions and delayed property access. Be certain to have a few emergency contact people on file in case of an emergency. December 2021 and January 2022

The CDC requires travelers to wear a mask in indoor areas of public transportation centers throughout the U.S. whenever you are traveling throughout the country or are arriving/departing such. If you’re in a region where COVID-19 cases are high, the CDC still recommends wearing a mask where social distancing is not possible (e.g. outdoor concert, sporting events, parades). Finally, continue good hygiene practices, such as washing your hands or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Mondays Pilates • 10:30 a.m. • Terrace Lounge Wednesdays Tone/Balance/Stretch • 12:15 p.m. • Terrace Lounge Saturdays Gentle Yoga • 9 a.m. • Terrace Lounge

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HAVE YOU RE-REGISTERED YET? By Jene Lyons, Deputy General Manager

Emergency Contact Please designate your emergency contact(s) and provide us with how to reach them (e.g. name, phone, email).

Pet Owners

If your pet is four months of age or older, you will need to complete pet registration. Submit the following with your re-registration packet: • Copy of Current Pet License • Completed Watergate Pet Registra-

tion form for FY22 Pet registration paperwork is available to download online at www.watergateatlandmark.com (Residents Resource Documents Other Helpful Documents), in the racks near the Resident Services window and in the brown magazine racks in each building’s mail area. It can be emailed to you upon request.

• Full-Body Photo of Your Pet The Association has provided a copier for residents to make duplicates of their supporting documents for Annual Re-registration. Photo: Rashawnda Daniels-Atkinson

WAL’s Annual Re-registration verifies resident contact information, emergency contact, vehicle, bicycle and pet information for every resident. Once the process is completed, residents will receive amenity passes, ID stickers, decals and/or pet tags for the new year. To keep the process as safe and contact-free as possible amid the lingering pandemic, we will handle nearly the entire process via U.S. mail, email and drop boxes.

Why Do I Have to Re-register?

Accurate and updated information helps you as a resident access all amenities, provide standard service requests (e.g. maintenance requests, lockouts) and alerts you in case of an emergency. Re-registration began on Monday, November 15, 2021 and ends Saturday, January 15, 2022.

Required Documentation

Documents may be printed out as well as photographed or scanned Page 8

electronically. You may also copy them at no charge on the copy machine set up for this purpose only near the Resident Services window during office hours. Valid Driver’s License or StateIssued ID Provide a copy of your driver’s license or state-issued ID reflecting a WAL address. Current DMV Registration Provide a copy of all vehicle and/or motorcycle registrations associated with your residence. WAL ID Card(s) These are issued for each unit occupant over 1 year of age. Provide copies of all the current WAL IDs associated with your unit. Please do not send physical WAL ID cards. Digital Photo All residents must provide a recent digital photo.

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Email a recent full-body photo or make a copy of one and email it to pets@watergateatlandmark.com.

Have a Dog as a Pet?

In addition to the general requirements for all pet owners, dog owners (with the exception of those who are designated as Assistance Animals) must pay an Annual Registration Fee of $25.00/dog residing at WAL. Failing to register a dog may subject you to a late registration charge. • Credit card payments may be made

on the form enclosed in the Reregistration packet or by phone via calling Resident Services (703-3707000).

• Payments made by check should be

made out to Watergate at Landmark and may be placed in an envelope along with your required documents.

• Assistance

Animals are exempt from this fee. However, applicable records and pet licensure are still required.

December 2021 and January 2022

Returning Completed Packages

Once you’ve gathered the required documents, review your Unit Profile Sheet. If needed, make corrections directly onto the form and sign it when finished. Then, choose one of the following submission options. Building Lobby Drop Box Place Unit Profile Sheet with copies of supporting documents into the return-envelope provided and drop into the black drop boxes located in building lobbies.

Physical Drop Location Place the corrected and signed Unit Profile Sheet with copies of your supporting documents in an envelope and drop it in the Resident Services GOLD Mail Slot. It’s located on the left side of the Resident Services window under the granite ledge.

At midnight, vehicles not displaying current WAL decals risk vehicle immobilization. There is a $50 Booting

[Submit your completed and signed Unit Profile Sheet and copies of applicable supporting documents to the Association on or before Saturday, January 15, 2022]

U.S. Mail Return your Unit Profile Sheet (corrected and signed) and copies of supporting documents to Watergate at Landmark, Attn: Resident Services, 211 Yoakum Parkway, Alexandria, VA 22304.

What Happens If I Miss the Reregistration Deadline?

Email Scan documents or take electronic photos of such. Then email the corrected and signed Unit Profile Sheet and supporting documents to reregistration@watergateatlandmark.com.

Monday, January 10 – Sunday, January 16, 2022 Reminder notices placed on vehicles with expired decals.

December 2021 and January 2022

Monday, January 17, 2022 Starting on this date, any resident not re-registered will incur a Late Registration Service Charge of $50/unit.

The Association will take the following steps prior to assessing a Late Registration Service Charge:

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Fee that is in addition to the Late Registration Service Charge. Don’t delay; please complete the reregistration process ASAP!

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WAL UPCOMING EVENTS LOBBY TREE TRIMMING

GREENSTREET GROWERS AND PA DUTCH FARMERS MARKET SHUTTLE TRIP

Thursday, December 2

Pickup Begins at 9:30 a.m. • $12 Shuttle

Thursday, December 16

Each Bldg.’s Lobby Start Time: 7 p.m. Get into the holiday spirit! Join your neighbors to decorate your lobby’s holiday tree. Please bring cookies or another dessert to share, along with your holiday enthusiasm! Each building needs just one coordinator and many helpers (kind of like Santa and his elves). Please call the Activities Office at (703)-370-7092 to volunteer or just come down and help with trimming!

Take a tour of Greenstreet Growers Nursery and Gardens’ collection of themed Christmas trees in Lothian, MD. Learn how to make a themed tree of your own and buy some holiday plants to get you in the spirit of the season! After the tour at Greenstreet Growers, the Shuttle goes to the PA Dutch Farmers Market in Annapolis, MD. Eat lunch at your expense while at the Dutch Farmers Market.

“HAPPY WALIDAYS” PARTY Saturday, December 18

FRIENDS OF THE WATERGATE LIBRARY OPEN HOUSE

Terrace Lounge • 5 – 7 p.m. Tickets: $30 • Cocktail Dress Attire Recommended

Wednesday, December 8 Library • 2 – 4 p.m.

Come meet the Friends of the Watergate Library and enjoy light refreshments with them! Not many people know it’s a community-based library that for 30 years, has been run entirely by volunteers. Spend some time browsing through the diverse collection of books...feel free to borrow a few books while visiting! Sponsored by the A&E Committee.

DECEMBER CELEBRATIONS AROUND THE WORLD Put on your holiday attire and join the Social Committee for some festivities this holiday season! Santa is sending his favorite chef, Benjamin from Ben’s Catering and a couple of his helpers to serve delicious hors d’oeuvres. There will be bubbly, wine and non-alcoholic beverages to quench your thirst. Santa’s favorite pianist, Bob Smith, renowned for playing at the White House and Press Club, will perform. Join him in singing your favorite tunes and holiday songs. To top off the evening, Daniel Delgado, the owner of Nothing Bundt Cakes on Duke St., will send us some Bundtinis, a treat that will send you into the night with holiday cheer!

Wednesday, December 15

Terrace Lounge 6 – 9 p.m.

Experience the traditions of Christmas, Yule, Yalda/Winter Solstice, Hannukah, and Kwanzaa! The Youth Committee has planned an event filled with music and fun. Be certain not to miss it, and if you plan to attend, please, bring some non-perishable food items to donate to the food drive that will be going on during the event! Page 10

Visit Becca in the Activities Office to purchase your tickets. It will be an evening of Holiday delight right here at Watergate. Save your spot for our party in the Terrace Lounge on December 18 and come dressed in your holiday finery!

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December 2021 and January 2022

UPCOMING ACTIVITIES MGM NATIONAL HARBOR SHUTTLE TRIP

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE U.S. ARMY SHUTTLE TRIP

Thursday, January 6, 2022

Pickup Begins at 9:30 a.m. • $12 Shuttle

Thursday, January 20, 2022

Have fun on this A&E-sponsored Shuttle Trip! Plan to buy lunch at one of the eateries in the vicinity. Sign up in the Activities Office no later than December 30, 2021.

INDOOR POOL PARTY

Pickup Begins at 10:15 a.m. $12 Shuttle

After the tour, buy your own lunch at Hilltop Shopping Ctr. Sponsored by A&E Committee.

SAVE THE DATES:

Friday, January 7, 2022

Indoor Pool • 6 – 9 p.m. $2 per person or $5 per family

Watergate Book Club

Want a break from the cooler temperatures? Grab your swimwear and bring the whole family to WAL’s Indoor Pool Party! You can bring pool toys but the floaties must stay home. Hosted by the Youth Committee. All are welcomed to attend. The Indoor Pool will not be available for nonparticipants while this Board-approved event is in progress. Please plan your schedule accordingly. Thank you for your cooperation.

December 2021 and January 2022

December 2, 2021 and January 6, 2022 Now Held in Conference Rm. 2 and Virtually at 7:30 p.m.

Big Football Game Viewing Party • Feb. 13, 2022 Sponsored by the Youth Committee.

Mardi Gras

Feb. 26, 2022 • Terrace Lounge • 5:30 p.m. Louisiana Boys will cater the food and the Jazz Trotters will perform. Tickets are $50. Social Committee sponsors.

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CHOSEN TO SERVE RESIDENT WINS SCHOOL BOARD SEAT By Rashawnda Daniels-Atkinson Watergate at Landmark resident Abdel-Rahman Elnoubi was elected to serve the families in District C on the Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) School Board on November 2, 2021. He’ll begin his first term this coming January, though he’s no stranger to public service. Abdel actively participated in his elementary school’s ParentTeacher Association (PTA) as a former President and parent volunteer alongside his wife, Salma. Both Abdel and Salma also give back to the WAL community via joining the Infrastructure and Youth Committees respectively. He was encouraged by fellow community volunteers to bring his experiences and views as a School Board member to help make lasting change for the City’s students. Abdel’s new role includes helping to shape policy and provide oversight for Alexandria’s schools. Photo: Abdel-Rahman Elnoubi

His reason for running? “Every kid, no matter what their background, what they look like, or who they are should have the opportunity to succeed and have a high-quality education,” Abdel stated. He knows first-hand what it’s like to fight for access amid challenging circumstances. Although he was born in Chicago and resided briefly in Northern Virginia, he spent his

coming of age years over 5,000 miles away in Alexandria Egypt. Amid the difficult economic and political climate at the time, his parents stressed the importance of education as a way to succeed in life. “My dad, a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, strongly encouraged me to study hard. My mom, who worked as a pharmacist, stressed the importance of education as well. Every night she made sure I was doing my homework and whatever I missed, she worked hard to make sure I got it right,” Abdel shares. School was a struggle for him as a youth, but that didn’t stop Abdel from reaching his goals of returning to the U.S. and earning his Mechanical Engineering degree from the City College of New York. In addition to his studies, he delivered pizzas on nights and weekends. In the summers, he worked 16-hour days to save for college textbooks and emergencies. “Those were some long nights,” Abdel remarked, “but I left one Alexandria—in Egypt—for opportunity, freedom, and prosperity, which I [eventually] found here in [another] Alexandria, interestingly enough.” Abdel credits his upbringing and learning experiences as subconscious influences on his passion for and involvement with education. He hopes to use his perspective as a parent, community volunteer and engineer as the ACPS School Board provides oversight and sets policies that impact the families the school system serves. “Engineers deal with being problem-solvers, trial and error. I love figuring stuff out. I won’t give up until I’ve done that or until I’m exhausted,” Abdel concluded.

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December 2021 and January 2022

Doggy Costume Winners: ~~Best All Around Costume: Teddy, as Country Singer ~~Best Group Costume: Carla &Casper as Winnie the Pooh &Piglet ~~cutest Costume: Super Dog ~~spookiest Costume: Frazier, Bat ~~Most Creative Costume: Carol, RT &Tyson as Jaws ~~Best Homemade Costume: Seychelle &Emmie, .# Oueen of Hearts .,,,,-

Cat Costume Winners: ~1rBest All Around Costume: Pepper, Garfield ~~Best Group Costume: lady Velvet &Dickens, trolls ~1rCutest Costume: Montrose, Nutella sandwich ~1rSpookiest Costume: Jaina Beast, Naturally Spooky Halloween Cat ~1rMost Creative Costume: Beatrice, Oueen Bee Phofo Cr~il: Pet Ccmmillee

December 2021 and January 2022

/1,e Pet C(Jmmitfee tl,anis tl,is year's Pet llalloween C(Jsfume Contest judges Mt fl»~ and Yanya!

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HAPPY YALDA!

By Zohreh Khoshnamak, Youth Committee Otherwise known as Shabe Chelleh, Yalda is celebrated in several countries including Iran, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan and Armenia. It marks the longest night of the year, the winter solstice, and dates back to the time of Mithraism and Zoroastrianism in Iran. Zoroastrians believed the world is the battleground for light and darkness and on the longest night evil is at its strongest. Families gathered to cheer on the supreme divinity in Zoroastrianism, Ahura Mazda, as he began to defeat evil. They also celebrate winter’s arrival, the renewal of the sun, the days becoming longer and the victory of light over darkness during Yalda. In modern times, family members gather in the house of the eldest member and stay awake all night long. Classic poetry and old mythologies are read aloud. During the celebration, dried nuts, watermelon and pomegranate are served. Iranians believe those who begin winter by eating summer fruits would not fall ill during the cold season. Therefore, eating watermelons is one of Yalda’s most important traditions. Pomegranates, placed on top of a fruit basket, are reminders of the cycle of life—the

Zoroastrians believe that eating summer fruits during Yalda wards off sickness in winter. Photo: Behnaz Zandi

rebirth and revival of generations. The purple outer covering of a pomegranate symbolizes birth or dawn, and its bright red arils, the glow of life. Join the Youth Committee to experience the traditions of this and other winter celebrations at the Youth Committee’s December Celebrations Across the World. There will be music and dance along with a food drive on Wednesday, December 15.

WAL’S TECH TROOPERS ARE BACK IN ACTION! By Zohreh Khoshnamak, Youth Committee During this year’s theme, the Tech Troopers will explore the future of transportation. From the shipment of packages in rural and urban areas to disaster relief delivery and high-tech air transit, our FLL team will try to re-imagine faster, more reliable, inclusive, and sustainable transportation innovations that better connect and grow communities and economies around the world. Kids will be introduced to engineering and coding in an engaging, inclusive, and creative setting where they work collaboratively to solve a robotics challenge in a projectbased, hands-on environment.

Got a love for Legos and robots? Consider being a Tech Trooper mentor! Photo: Zohreh Khoshnamak

WAL’s robotic team, the Tech Troopers are back and participating in the 2021-2022 First Lego League (FLL). This is the fourth year we are participating, and this season’s theme is a timely one—Cargo! Page 14

We’ll meet on Friday afternoons. Our team will build a robot using Legos and EV3 program technology in order to carry out the robotics challenges. The team is also expected to work on a research project and present its work at a later date. We are still looking for additional mentors. Please join us if you have any background and/or experience in programming, robotics, and transportation.

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December 2021 and January 2022

WAL’S LATEST PICKLEBALL CLASS GRADUATES By Terry Schlossberg, Recreation Committee On Saturday, November 13, the fourth class of new pickleball players at WAL "graduated" from the free Pickleball lessons offered by members of this community. There were a dozen players in this group of Pickleball learners. In addition to those pictured, members of the class were Vaso Lamprak, Shaunte Chacon, Allie Kirchner, and Karen Hamlin. They were taught by WAL residents and experienced pickleball players Isamu Danura (pictured), Kumi Fukai and Terry Schlossberg.

With about 70 players, the WAL Pickleball community offers Introduction to Pickleball classes in four-lesson sessions several times throughout the year. The group typically meets at the Racquet Club. Interested in joining the next set of lessons? Please send an email to terryschlossberg@comcast.net.

The latest group of residents and guests to join the picklers at WAL (From L to R): Robert Balsassano, Thao Phan, Angela Mojica, Didi Dorset, Isamu Danura - Volunteer Instructor, Mimi Lippold, James Russo, Shanda Georg and Dennis Barbi. Photo: Terry Schlossberg

December 2021 and January 2022

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December 2021 and January 2022

DECEMBER 2021 EVENTS Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL

Tone/Balance/Stretch 12:15 PM - TL

Watergate Book Club 7:30 PM - VI and CF2

Knit and Stitch 10 AM - CF2

Yoga - 9 AM - CR

Bridge - 2 PM - CR

Pet - 7:30 PM - CF1/TC

Recreation - 5 PM TC/CF1

Lobby Tree Trimming 7 PM - BL

Scrapbook Club 2 PM - VI

Infrastructure - 7 PM - TC

Pilates 10:30 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL

Mahjong - 11 AM - CR

Elections 2 PM - CF2

Seniors - 2 PM - TL/TC

Tone/Balance/Stretch 12:15 PM - TL

Covenants - 7PM - TC

Bridge - 2 PM - CR

9 Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL

Knit and Stitch 10 AM - CF2

Yoga - 9 AM - CR Scrapbook Club 2 PM - VI

PRC - 7 PM - TC Library Open House 2 PM - LB

Pilates 10:30 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL

Budget 7 PM - TC

Board of Directors Meeting - 7:30 PM - TL

15 Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL

Mahjong - 11 AM - CR

16 Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL

Tone/Balance/Stretch 12:15 PM - TL

Shuttle Trip: Greenstreet Growers - 9:30 AM

17 Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL

Knit and Stitch 10 AM - CF2

Yoga - 9 AM - CR Scrapbook Club 2 PM - VI

Bridge - 2 PM - CR December Celebrations Around the World - 6 PM - TL

20 Pilates 10:30 AM - TL

Happy Walidays Party 5 PM - TL

Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL

Mahjong - 11 AM - CR

Tone/Balance/Stretch 12:15 PM - TL

24 Christmas Eve Observed All Offices Closed

27 Pilates 10:30 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL

Bridge - 2 PM - CR

Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL

Mahjong - 11 AM - CR

Tone/Balance/Stretch 12:15 PM - TL

Christmas Day All Offices Closed

Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL

Bridge - 2 PM - CR

New Year’s Eve Observed

All Offices Closed

LOCATION KEY BL= Building Lobby; BP=Billiard and Ping-Pong Rooms; BR=Blue Room; CF1=Conference Room 1; CF2=Conference Room 2; CR=Card Room; FC=WAL Fitness Center; GZ=Gazebos; IP=Indoor Pool; LB=Library; LD= Loading Dock; LT=Lower Terrace; M=Market; MA=Multi-purpose Area; OP=Outdoor Pool; OT=Outdoor Tennis Courts; P=Playground; PG=Putting Green; PR=Party Room; RC=Racquet Club; TC=Teleconference; TL=Terrace Lounge; TS=Town Square; TV=TV Room; UT=Upper Terrace; VI=Virtual

December 2021 and January 2022

Wheel

Page 17

JANUARY 2022 EVENTS Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

3 Pilates 10:30 AM - TL Communications 7PM - TC

Thursday

Friday

1 New Year’s Day All Offices Closed 7 8

Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL

Mahjong - 11 AM CR

Tone/Balance/Stretch 12:15 PM - TL

Watergate Book Club - Knit and Stitch 7:30 PM - VI and CF2 10 AM - CF2

Seniors - 2 PM - TL/ TC

Bridge - 2 PM - CR

Pet - 7:30 PM - CF1/TC

Recreation - 5 PM TC/CF1

Shuttle Trip: MGM Nat’l Harbor - 9:30 AM

A&E - 5 PM - CF2

Saturday

Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL Yoga - 9 AM - CR

Scrapbook Club Indoor Pool Party - 2 PM - VI 6 PM - IP

Covenants - 7PM - TC Youth - 6 PM - TC

Infrastructure - 7 PM - TC

10 Pilates 10:30 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL

Mahjong - 11 AM CR

Landscape -11 AM - TC

Social - 6 PM - CF2

13 Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL v

Tone/Balance/Stretch 12:15 PM - TL

14 Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL

Knit and Stitch 10 AM - CF2

Yoga - 9 AM - CR Scrapbook Club 2 PM - VI

Bridge - 2 PM - CR PRC - 7 PM - TC

17 Pilates 10:30 AM - TL Budget 7 PM - TC

Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL

Mahjong - 11 AM CR

Tone/Balance/Stretch 12:15 PM - TL

20 Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL

Bridge - 2 PM - CR

Shuttle Trip: Nat’l Museum of the U.S. Army - 10:15 AM

Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL

2022 Annual Re-registration Ends at 2 PM 22

Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL

Knit and Stitch 10 AM - CF2

Yoga - 9 AM - CR Scrapbook Club 2 PM - VI

MLK Jr. Holiday Normal Operating Hours 23

24 Pilates 10:30 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL

Mahjong - 11 AM CR

Tone/Balance/Stretch 12:15 PM - TL

Board of Directors Bridge - 2 PM - CR Meeting - 7:30 PM - TL

27 Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 9 AM - TL

Tai Chi - 8 AM - TL

Knit and Stitch 10 AM - CF2

Yoga - 9 AM - CR Scrapbook Club 2 PM - VI

31 Pilates 10:30 AM - TL

Last Day to Opt-In to E-Voting for FY 2022 BOD Elections

Page 18

Wheel

December 2021 and January 2022

HVAC EQUIPMENT Facing frequent repairs? If your equipment

requires frequ ent repairs and you notice your energy bills r"sing, your equipment is becoming l,ess efficient and it may be time to replace. Avera,g,e lifespan-- When serviced annually and

properly maintained the avernge life of a t ypical AC unit is about 15 y,ears. SEER rating -- SEER measures air conditioners'

cooling efficiency. A higher SEER rating means great ,er energy efficiency. Today the De pa rtm ent of The price of R-22 has sky roe keted resulting in sign'ficantly higher repair bills for ai r conditioners that are 10pl us years old and use R-22 as the refrigerant. Depending on the exact age of your system, over time rep laceme nt parts coulld get harder to find, and the price for R-22 refrigerant will get more expens ive-- as production has stopped. Before you invest in another repair to an older system - let M.E. Flow help you with a FREE Repair vs. Replacement Assessment!

Energy (DOE} mandates for our region 14 SEER, using R410A refrigerant .

Why R-22 Refri,g erant is so, costly-- The Environm ental Protect.ion Ag ency (EPA) determin ed that R-22 damages th e ozone layer and is currently in the last few years of phasing out R'-22. With the

phasing out, the EPA has stopped the product ion of R-22 and no longer allows it to be imported. R410A is the refrigerant used in the manufacturing of new air conditioners today. AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF A WATER 1

HEATER IS 10 YEARS

With a ne·w system you'll get:

• Mor,e efficient unit • Ext end ed w ananHes availab

REQUES A FREE QU 0TE TODAY! CAL. L 703-297-8507 Page 19 1

• Peace of mind December 2021 and January 2022

Wheel

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Wheel

December 2021 and January 2022