Fun Things to Do and See This Week in Silver Spring

It's the middle of February (already!) and Silver Spring home owners have a virtual cornucopia of of terrific places to go and fun things to do right here in our area. Here's a look at just a few of the possibilities available for your enjoyment this week:

Beginning this evening (Monday, February 13), it's Bring Your Family to School Week! The National PTA^® announced the Thomas G. Pullen K-8 Arts Academy has been awarded a $1,000 Grant for “Bring Your Family to School Week” and at 7pm today, a representative from the National PTA will present our PTA with the $1,000 grant. There are fun events happening each evening this week from 7-9pm; for more information, contact tgpullenpta@gmail.com, call 240-695-7136, or go to www.thomaspullenpta.org.

On Tuesday, February 14, bring the kids to Brookside Gardens for the Sweet Pea Valentine's Workshop. Listen to a wonderful Valentine’s story, design and paint a clay pot planted with sweet peas and make a Valentine’s card to give to someone special. Course number 158650; 4:30-6:00pm; Ages: 6-12; registration required at www.parkpass.org.

Wednesday, February 15, join local recording artist, Randy "Windtalker" Motz as he celebrates the release of his new CD, “Canyon Whispers,” with a performance of his unique and haunting style of contemporary Native American flute music. Motz describes his music as “Native SoundScapes.” The blending of Native American-style flute with lush orchestration and Native percussion, weaves a musical tapestry that creates a warm and soothing ambiance perfectly suited for an evening of relaxation, coffee, and food. Come out to The Music Cafe at 26528-B Ridge Road in Damascus. For more info contact windtalkermusic@verizon.net, or go to www.the-music-cafe.com.

Are you a Civil War enthusiast? If so, on Thursday (February 16) you're sure to enjoy the Frederick County Civil War Roundtable's presentation. Park ranger, military historian and interpreter John Reid to discuss two battles of Manassas and their implications for the outcome of the war. All are welcome to attend this free presentation. For details, contact Jim Enright at 301-514-3741 or visit http://frederickcountycivilwarrt.org.

If you're a jazz lover, come out for the 2012 Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival (MAJF). An annual weekend of jazz, February 17th through Monday February 20th , MAJF returns for the 3rd year, still standing up for “Real Jazz,” featuring Roy Haynes, Kim Burrell, Carmen Bradford, Terrell Stafford, Nicholas Payton, Warren Wolf, and Winard Harper. Also included are workshops, a high school band competition, and a jazz play for the family, Bud Not Buddy, produced in partnership with Adventure Theatre. Call301-563-9330 or go to www.midatlanticjazzfestival.org for more info.

Emcee Arah - "the REALTOR with Architectural Dimension" – is both a Certified Distress Property Expert (CDPE) and a Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS). He is uniquely equipped to assist you in navigating today's residential real estate market. Contact us online or by phone at (301) 452-5252. And don't forget to leave your comments on our Facebook page – we'd love to hear from you!