Talented Marriottsville dancer Carly Weickgenannt, 13, recently returned from an intensive two-week camp at The Rock School for Dance Education in Philadelphia.

Unlike many summer camps, which require only an entrance fee, The Rock School looks at rigorous criteria before making its selections. The school accepted Carly based upon her prior experience with Ballet Royale Institute in Columbia, the form she displayed in several posed photos, and her technique during an audition in Washington, D.C.

Throughout her two-week stay at the camp, Carly studied ballet, pointe and jazz with instructors from a variety of international locales, such as Hungary, Russia, England, and of course, the U.S. Carly feels she gained invaluable practice with such a diverse pool of instructors, each with his or her own skill set, teaching methods, and advice.

During the camp, Carly participated in three classes per day with approximately 20 students per class. The students ranged in age from 9-21 and hailed from across the country; they roomed together at the Haverford College dormitories. Carly thoroughly enjoyed the experience and the stronger confidence she developed as a result, and she hopes to attend again next summer.

The Waverly Woods Village Center has seen many changes over the past year. In a previous column, I mentioned the addition of Bubble Gum Bill's ice cream parlor; this week, I'd like to highlight another new establishment.

Snap Fitness 24/7 Health Club has opened at Curves' former location and will celebrate its grand opening Saturday, Aug. 23. Owner and manager Theresa Stone, resides in Ellicott City. She became familiar with Waverly Woods through nearby friends and also through her children, who swim competitively and participate in meets at the Waverly Woods pool.

Snap Fitness is a franchise organization with nearly 1,000 locations and another 500 in the works.

For additional information, call Snap Fitness at 410-480-2882 or go to www.snapfitness.com.

One final reminder -- public schools open Monday, Aug. 25, so let's make sure we slow down near schools and residential areas and stop at least 10 feet in either direction for school buses with flashing red lights.

Here's to a safe and successful school year for our county children!

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