Continuation of ....
Archives of E-Mail communication in the Forest
Page 3 (12/30/2000
- 5/5/2002)
Archives Below: (return to Page 1 of Archives)
Sent: Sunday, May 05, 2002 9:06 AM
Dear Neighbors:
The CivFed meeting is this coming Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. at the Til Hazel Auditorium at Virginia Hospital Center. The speakers are Congressman Jim Moran and the State Delegation. This is the overview meeting of what's happening at the Federal and State levels. The public is invited to attend, but only delegates or alternates can ask questions. I also have the electronic version of the CivFed newsletter. If you'd like it, let me know and I'll send it.
Kim
Sent: Friday, May 03, 2002 4:41 PM
Subject: Identity Theft/Annual Meeting Bellevue Forest
Dear Neighbors: It was only a matter of time before someone within our community was victimized by Identity Theft. This is a serious crime, growing at an exponential rate, and can happen to anyone. It is not a crime of carelessness or of lack of vigilance. It is a crime of opportunity that can befall anyone who writes checks or uses credit cards or has their social security number on their driver's license. To date, one of our neighbors has had $30,000 in charges in his or her name on credit cards
he/she did not ever possess. Please join us at our Annual Meeting on May 5th. We have asked someone in the Civil Fraud unit, Dave Munn, to provide us with information on how this happens and what we might do to better protect ourselves. Arlington gets about 15 reports per WEEK of Identity Theft, a crime that can truly upset life as we all know it.
The Annual Meeting is from 3 to 5 at the Church of the Covenant. There will also be opportunities to sign up for Neighborhood Watch duty. Questions -- e-mail one of your officers.Kim
Sent: Saturday, April 13, 2002 9:05 AM
Dear Neighbors:
Bunch of stuff! 1. The Nominating Committee has almost finished its work, but there are still a few holes in our repertoire! We need the following volunteers: Delegate to the Civic Federation (1) - Meets first Tuesday of each month at the Til Hazel Auditorium at Virginia Hospital Center (aka Arlington Hospital). Representative to the Neighborhood Conservation Advisory
Committee (meets the second Thursday of the month at the NRECA Building off Wilson near Ballston). Our representation on this committee is essential to receiving NCAC funds and is also a very interesting session with updates on much that affects Arlington. (I've been doing this but my schedule no longer permits this.)
Alternate to NCAC (to provide relief!) Corn Roast Chair (the Mows are moving to Madison County - so we've lost our stalwarts!) The Annual Meeting will be held on Sunday, May 5th from 3 to 5 at the Church of the Covenant on Military Road. 2. Crime: Of late, we've had a few problems, mostly of thevandalism nature BUT we had a tire slashing the other night. We have contacted the Arlington Police Department and will be working on what we can do to strengthen our safety here in the Forest. (We've also had another flag stolen -- bad form!)
3. Airport Noise: A county-wide committee is being formed to deal with this. Hank McEntee, Jim Reo, and Steve Huntoon (as back-up) have all volunteered to work on this. Suggestions, concerns should be directed to them. 4. Neighborhood Watch -- This program has become somewhat dormant in Arlington. However, in light of September 11th and the rising crime rate nationwide, the Arlington PD will be reactivating the program. We've already started one in Bellevue Forest -- primarily for
"neighborliness", but recent events suggest we might want to ratchet up. We still need Block Captains. We also need your support. 50% of the neighbors in a block must agree to participate for this to be effective. Please sign the petition of support when someone comes to your door. Also, PLEASE consider volunteering.
5. Emergency Preparedness: A few of us have been volunteering on this topic, working with Mark Penn (in charge of the CEMP along with Chief Plaugher). For those who are interested, you might go to the Civic Federation web site for some additional information. That's at www.civfed.org. 6. Newsletter: The Bellevue Forest hard-copy newsletter will be going to the printers on Monday. If anyone has anything they'd like to have included, please send it to me as soon as possible. 7. Termites: A request from a neighbor follows: "We are looking to obtain termite treatment at our home on Pollard St. and are trying to choose between a conventional termiticide liquid perimeter treatment and the "safer" bait stations. (If you or anyone else is interested in the names of companies that use integrated pest management programs I will be happy to forward the names.) After getting estimates and consulting a friend who is an entomologist the question arose "Are there any of your neighbors who are using the bait systems?" The conventional pesticides serve as a barrier protecting your dwelling but not killing the termite colony while the bait systems kill, albeit slowly, the entire colony. Apparently, if the other houses in your vicinity are using baits, there is a synergistic effect.So would it be possible to use the email system to ask about termiticide
usage in the lower ranges of the Pollard/Piedmont/Quincy area? If not, I suppose I will be conducting my own survey, but I thought this might interest others.Yvette Hopkins
Finally, remember that the days are now longer, and walkers, bikers, joggers, dogs, cats, squirrels and deer will be more abundant on our streets. Please drive carefully, slowly, and vigilantly. We want EVERYONE in the Forest to have a wonderful spring and summer! Suggestions, questions, concerns? Contact any of your officers: Pete@bellevueforest.org; Dan@bellevueforest.org ; Kim at jadam@erols.com or Kim@bellevueforest.org. Have a great weekend.Kim
Sent: Tuesday, April 02, 2002 10:18 AM
Dear All:
Sorry to be late, but life's complicated. Four things: 1) Tonight is the Civic Federation meeting. Among considerations is the Budget. Essentially, the proposal going before the CivFed is a balanced budget; a modest reduction is the tax rate; a change in the agreement between the schools and the County (to preserve operating budget for the schools AND to allow the tax rate reduction). Meeting is at 7:30 at Virginia Hospital Center (aka Arlington) in the Til Hazel Auditorium. If you want the on-line newsletter from the CivFed, let me know and I'll forward it. 2) Some garden statuary has been stolen from a home on Quincy Street-- one with sentimental as well as monetary value. If a dog has shown up in your yard, please let us know. If you've had anything taken, please keep us informed. 3) Lyon Park is starting a county-wide "neighborhood" based airport noise initiative/group and has invited all civic associations to join with them. Is there anyone in Bellevue Forest with a burning
desire to serve as our representative? We do need one, particularly since the District is actively attempting to re-divert air traffic back to pre-September 11th routes. 4) The annual meeting is the first Sunday of May. We are still recruiting people to serve on the Executive Committee. Please consider joining us. Have a good day.
Kim
Sent: Monday, March 04, 2002 7:52 PM
Dear Neighbors:
It has come to our attention that, on two occasions within the last few days, young girls have been approached or followed by an individual in a red sports car. The two incidents happened in Rivercrest and Bellevue Forest at bus stops. If you are interested in receiving the letter that went home with Taylor Elementary Students, and the additional information Dan Radke was able to provide us, please let me know. And thanks, Betsy, for letting us know about this. Please remind your children of what to do if approached by a stranger.
Kim
Sent: Saturday, March 02, 2002 10:05 PM
Dear All:
Hope you're enjoying the rain. I know the plants are! Briefly, I have the electronic version of the Civic Federation newsletter for all who are interested. Just let me know and I'll send it to you. Tuesday's meeting of the CivFed should be challenging --
four resolutions (essentially opposing the baseball stadium UNLESS really stringent standards are met -- neighborhood, infrastructure, financing, etc.; a boundary dispute; Metrorail expansion; Pledge of Allegiance). If you have opinions on any of these issues, please let us know before Tuesday afternoon! Hope your weekend is great -- and week, too.
Kim
Sent: Monday, February 25, 2002 10:32 PM
Dear Neighbors:
This is a cup of coffee e-mail. Sorry, but there's lots out there! First, Executive Committee and Interested Neighbors: The next
Executive Committee meeting is this Wednesday, February 27th at 7:30 p.m. at Pete Tyler's house on N. Monroe. Please call Pete to let him know if you will be attending (703-525-9085). The Agenda includes: Nominating Committee -- Neighbors, please consider self-nominating. The positions are President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Corresponding Secretary, 4 Delegates to the Civic Federation, 4 Alternates to the Civic Federation, 1 Neighborhood Conservation Advisory Committee representative (must be available the 2nd Thursday of each month); 1 Neighborhood Conservation Advisory Comittee alternate. (Not all positions are vacant -- some of us want to re-up!) NCAC -- Status of our efforts Assessments -- Action by Bellevue Forest Petitions on Assessments -- two petitions are being circulated asking for a reduction in the tax rate. One is via Arlington Forest (requesting a reduction to .80 per $100); the other is on-line asking for an unspecified reduction. If you want to consider the on-line petition, please let me know and I'll send it to you. Development of a Vacant Lot in Bellevue Forest -- A
developer has asked to meet with the Executive Committee regarding construction on a currently vacant lot (7,100 sq. ft) on Oakland. Annual meeting/Election of Officers: Confirmed for May 5 (Sunday) from 3 - 5 p.m. at Church of the Covenant. Suggestions on speakers would be greatly appreciated (as would donations of munchies). Boundaries: Bellevue Forest's boundaries as written in our constitution seem to overlap with two of our neighbors. Anyone with insights as to how this happened (since historically they were part of us according to the 1973 map) should contact Pete or Kim. We're hoping
to "share" these neighbors for joint projects/efforts. Neighborhood Watch: We still need people willing to communicate with 10 of their neighbors should a need arise (No, we don't need anyone on Quincy -- unless you all want to take a few non-contiguous blocks!! You all are incredible volunteers.)
Zoning: Status report from Abby on where the proposal is vis a vis footprint.Other news:
BASEBALL STADIUM: The Civic Federation will be having a looooong meeting on Tuesday, March 5th. Among the issues on the agenda is a resolution on the Baseball Stadium. The Civic Federation has several resolutions in opposition to siting a stadium in Arlington. One of the representatives from the baseball commission met with the Ex Com on Friday night. Apparently, the stadium is in the "design phase" but he would give no indication of sites. Looking at aerial maps, there are several possibilities (they indicate a desire for around 20 acres). These are Army-Navy Country Club; Crystal City near 14th St.; the East side of the railroad tracks and GW Parkway next to the airport; 12th/Hayes/Joyce Streets S (near Pentagon City).
WE NEED YOUR INPUT. HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT A STADIUM IN ARLINGTON? (You should know the Civic Associations most immediately affected by this seem to be in pretty universal opposition -- but that's not an official polling.)
PETITION ON ASSESSMENTS: There is an on-line petition circulating on reducing the tax rate. If you are interested, I'll
forward the petition to you for your consideration. I also have copies of the budget if anyone is interested in doing some analysis. (What I learned at the Fiscal Affairs Advisory Committee about the Department of Environmental Quality and its preventive maintenance budget historically would curl your teeth.)
GARDENERS: Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia is having a Gardening Symposium on March 16th from 9 - 3 at Tuckahoe Elementary School. Fee is $25.00 plus $7.00 if you want lunch (plus $24 if you want the book on establishing cutting gardens for sun and shade). Topics include propagation (Parts I and II), weeds, roses, perennials, creating microclimates (and being able to grow plants not usually associated with Zones 6/7), making and growing trough gardens, creating garden objects and sculptures from bamboo (Parts I and II). There's a keynote speaker (author of the above-mentioned book). If you're interested, let me know and I'll get you a brochure. NEIGHBORHOOD DAY: The official day for neighborhood solidarity is May 11th. There's a parade in Clarendon as well as Twilight Tatoo atFt. Myer (open to the public), etc. Two questions: DO WE WANT TO PARTICIPATE IN THE PARADE (and if so, in what way)? DO WE WANT TO DO SOMETHING IN OUR NEIGHBORHOOD (and if so, what)? The following is information forwarded by Dan Radke from Donaldson Run. They're a really active group on a number of issues. Please consider learning about/participating in some of these.
Potomac Overlook Regional Park (Marcey Road): The next concert (Michelle Swan) will be held on March 9, 2002 at the Nature Center. Reservations are required. For more information, call the Nature Center at 703-528-5406. Call early, the last concert was sold out and had a waiting list of over 30 people! Attention Hikers and Runners!!! The Potomac Overlook Trails Runs (4K, 8K, 12K) will be held at Potomac Overlook Regional Park, Arlington, VA on Saturday, March 2, at 8:30 AM. Registration starts at 7:30 AM. Hikers are welcome and should be able to hike the 4K (2.5 miles) in less than an hour. The course is on an asphalt road for about * mile, the remainder over single track dirt trails. Be prepared for two stream crossings on rocks. The trail runs are a fund-raiser for Food for Others, a Northern Virginia nonprofit food bank. Early registration entry fee is $15. All proceeds go to Food for Others. Race day registration fee is $25. The Potomac Valley Track Club and the Virginia Happy Trails Running Club are absorbing all the expenses. For more information, contact Ed Demoney at mts2run@erols.com or call (703) 524-1320. Information about the trail runs can be obtained at (703) 207-9173, Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Information is also available at http://www.foodforothers.org or http://www.vhtrc.org . "Friends of Donaldson Run" has recently been formed by folks from around Arlington interested in preserving our local stream. This group has connections to the Audubon Naturalist Society, Arlington County's Dept. of Environmental Services, Potomac Overlook Regional Park, and the Northern Virginia Conservation Trust (NVCT). Come join neighbors, working with neighbors to protect and restore one of Arlington's healthiest streams! Wednesday, March 20, 20027:30 - 9:00 PM Church of the Covenant Library Lounge (on main level) 2666 Military Road Arlington At this meeting we will set the group's initial course. Proposed projects include: invasive plant removal, stream cleanup with local youth, demonstration projects such as rain gardens (yes, it will rain again eventually!).
How would you like to be involved? Be part of this local group having fun and providing stewardship for this natural treasure in our backyards! Questions? Call Aileen Winquist, 703-228-3610. We are grateful to Church of the Covenant for providing meeting space as we form this new community group. (Aileen is one of the coordinators of the Stream Monitoring Program -- the very people who detected the toxic spill into Donaldson Run and Gulf Branch!) Hope you have a nice day. If you have questions, concerns, suggestions or want your civic association to do other/more things, please contact one of the officers! And please consider getting involved. We need you!Kim
Sent: Tuesday, February 12, 2002 9:51 PM
Dear Neighbors:
Pete informed me that a rabid raccoon was found at Donaldson Run. Neighbors and their pets who might have had contact with it are urged to call the Animal Shelter at 703-931-9241. Also, a dead fox was found under someone's deck. The owners
called the county and were told to bag it and dispose of it in the trash. PLEASE do not do this. First, rabies can have a life after the death of the animal. Handling it without protective apparatus can (but not necessarily will) pose harm to the handler. Second, all wildlife that dies of causes that are not obvious should be tested, particularly species prone to this disease. Cover it with a tarp to prevent curious live animals from exploring it (or children), then call animal control. Also remind your children that many rabies carriers are nocturnal. One of these roaming around in the middle of the day (earlier than dusk) is immediately suspect. They should avoid wildlife in all cases, but particularly under daylight circumstances. Do take care.
Kim
Sent: Saturday, February 09, 2002 7:55 AM
Dear Neighbors:
Thank you to those who have responded vis a vis assessments. To date, most have expressed interest in lowering the tax rate, believing the assessments to be - in most cases - somewhat realistic, although a few newcomers have seen a significant increase in less than one year of ownership. We'll make a Civic Association decision, based on these responses, at the end of the weekend or early next week -- so please respond if you haven't done so. At the Civic Federation meeting (VERY briefly), the delegates
voted down the Teacher Excellence Initiative (not because there wasn't support for better treatment of teachers but because there was insufficient data in the Superintendent's proposal to justify that course of action); voted for a Zoning resolution that would require developers to adhere to zoning ordinances and Sector Plan stipulations before development could begin; accepted and referred to Committee two resolutions on civic association boundaries; accepted and referred toCommittee a resolution on the suggested baseball stadium; referred back to Committee a resolution on beginning meetings with a patriotic moment. Ron Carlee spoke and introduced his assistant County Managers, describing their various functions. Lots of questions of the manager on an array of topics. BFCA Executive Committee: Again, ALL MEETINGS ARE OPEN TO
INTERESTED RESIDENTS. They are the last Wednesday of the month. We set the date of the Annual Meeting -- first Sunday in May, 3-5 p.m. at Church of the Covenant. Please mark your calendars. We also discussed tax assessments and whether there was a collective sense of the ExCom (there was, and we wanted to see if you agreed); discussed joining forces with Donaldson Run Civic Association on some of their projects since they, in large measure, affect us as well; determined whether any concerns had been expressed from various parts of the neighborhood (we haven't heard of any -- so please share if there are); determined our strategy on the meetings we have to have on the Neighborhood Conservation Plan, etc. Environmental Issues: Protecting Donaldson Run and the Potomac Palisades are the topics of the next two sections. Dan Radke forwarded
these to me, and some of our residents might want to attend/participate, particularly in the Donaldson Run initiatives.
In case our neighbors are interested, ...
From: Aileen Winquist [mailto:Awinquist@co.arlington.va.us]
Subject: Friends of Donaldson Run meeting
Hi folks -
Hope you're all doing well! You are receiving this email because you have expressed interest in being part of the Friends of
Donaldson Run group. We had an initial meeting in January, and have planned another meeting for February 20, 7:30 PM. It
will take place at the The Church of the Covenant, 2666 Military Road, Arlington, VA 22207. Phone is 703-524-4116 (phone
in Fellowship Hall from which we can make or receive calls). At this upcoming meeting, we'd like to spend some time discussing what people see as the goals and purpose of the group, and decide on how the group will be organized.
Please circulate information about this meeting to others that you think might be interested. Hope to see you there!
Thanks, Aileen
Aileen Winquist
Arlington County Dept. of Environmental Services
2100 Clarendon Blvd. Suite 801
Arlington, VA 22201
(703) 228-3610 - Phone
(703) 228-7134 - Fax
awinqu@co.arlington.va.us
From: RiverUpdate@potomac.org [mailto:RiverUpdate@potomac.org]On Behalf Of Matt Berres
PUBLIC COMMENTS NEEDED TO SECURE POTOMAC PROTECTION IN VIRGINIA
Unlike Maryland, which boasts the C&O Canal National Historical Park, the majority of the Virginia shoreline of the Potomac
River is privately-owned. In most cases, riverfront landowners have demonstrated great care and respect for the natural beauty
of their property. Consequently, much of the Potomac shoreline north of Washington remains forested and scenic. Unfortunately, developers are beginning to change this historic landscape by clear-cutting land, building decks and walkways, and marring otherwise natural, healthy forestland. (To see an update on a current case, visit: http://www.potomac.org/about/news/press/luria.html) If you act today, you can help stop this trend! Fairfax County has announced proposed amendments to strengthen the County Chesapeake Bay Preservation Ordinance and improve the County's ability to better protect forests and wetland in floodplain areas and stream valleys from harmful development.
The Board of Supervisors will hold a public meeting on Monday, February, 25, 2002 to hear comments on the proposed amendments. With your help we can guarantee stronger protection of our stream valleys and riverbank areas. The Potomac Conservancy urges Fairfax County residents to voice their support for a stronger Chesapeake Bay Preservation Ordinance by submitting written comments to the Board of Supervisors and by attending upcoming public meetings. For more information about this issue and sample letters visit: http://www.potomac.org/about/news/press/cpbo.html
VOLUNTEER COORDINATORS NEEDED FOR POTOMAC WATERSHED CLEAN-UP
The Potomac Conservancy seeks volunteer coordinators and site leaders to help organize clean-up locations for the 14th
annual Potomac Watershed Clean-up. Coordinators will adopt a clean-up site and assist with logistics and planning for the day of the event. For more information contact: Matt Berres, Director of Community Action, at: riverrat@potomac.org or 703.276.2777 ext. 203 The Potomac Watershed Clean-up is a major, multi-partner effort sponsored by the Alice Ferguson Foundation to clean-up the Potomac River and its watershed lands. In 2001, 16 counties and 2 cities in Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and the District of Columbia worked together to remove tons of trash from the Potomac River Watershed. Mark your calendar now and join us for the largest river clean-up of the year. When: Saturday, April 6, 2002, 9 a.m. - noon Where: Hundreds of locations throughout the watershed, including dozens in the DC metropolitan area. Keep tuned to RiverUpdate and www.potomac.org for more information. For a complete listing of sites across the watershed visit the Alice Ferguson Foundation Clean-up website at: www.potomaccleanup.org
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES GALORE
The Potomac Conservancy is seeking volunteers of all interests to assist with a wide range of projects throughout 2002. Some of our priority needs include: Administrative help: filing, data entry, stuffing envelopes, and more. Volunteers here would be a huge help! Bookkeeping: Assisting with bi-monthly data entry into our accounting program. Experience with Quickbooks and basic bookkeeping skills essential. Event Planning: Want to help us plan our parties? We are seeking social butterflies to serve on an informal Event Committee to help plan and organize events in 2002. For a complete list of volunteer opportunities and to sign up as a volunteer, visit: http://www.potomac.org/join/volunteer.html
Sent: Monday, February 04, 2002 7:21 AM
Dear Neighbors:
Hope you all are well. Just a few details on happenings that might beof interest to you. First, we have the Civic Federation newsletter electronic copy. Please let me know if you'd like me to send it to you. It's about tomorrow night's CivFed meeting (7:30, Til Hazel Auditorium) where Ron Carlee will be featured speaker. Second, the Executive Committee met, and one of the top issues was the assessments. WE NEED YOUR INPUT HERE. If you have a reaction to the assessments, good, bad or indifferent, please let us know. We have tentatively agreed to a community-wide approach but don't want to act without knowing how you all feel. Third, during the Ex meeting, we discussed the need for a nominating committee. Pete Tyler (President) will be forming that within days. However, if you are willing to serve (or continue serving), it would be helpful to know that. There is a possibility that, at the very least, we will need new Civic Federation Delegates. We also always
need new people/ideas, etc. Fourth, the Annual Meeting will be the first Sunday in May at the Church of the Covenant.
Fifth, the Ex Committee meets the last Wednesday of each month. All interested neighbors are invited to attend. Sixth, I received a very interesting summary of articles on Homeland Security with applicable web sites. If anyone is interested, I'll be glad to share. We've heard of no major problems in the Forest right now, relishing the fact that all is still reasonably peaceful. Please don't hesitate to share any concerns or ideas. Have a great week.
Kim
Sent: Monday, January 23, 2002 11:08 PM
Dear Neighbors:
Little bits and pieces: The Executive Committee will meet next Wednesday, January 30th at 7:30 p.m. Please let us know if you want to attend or have an issue considered. Hope you have all recovered from the shock of your assessments (if they were anything like ours!!!). Ron Carlee has indicated that the procedure for challenging the assessments will be posted on the Web
Site. One of our neighbors reports that a woman was frantically
banging on her door, demanding that she tell her who in the neighborhood needed babysitters. Has anyone else experienced something like this? The woman was driving a Cadillac - age and model unknown. There have been some concerns about individuals pooper scooping after their dogs (GOOD) and then depositing the contents in other peoples' garbage cans (THAT'S A NO NO). Please be a good pet owner and respect one another's property - including garbage cans (which are sometimes housed in garages and become quite odiferous). If anyone is looking for a good live-in person for elder care, the following information was sent from Rhea: Just wanted to pass an opportunity on. If there is anyone looking for a person to live in and take care of an elderly person, a wonderful person that I have known for several years is now available and looking for a new position. You can have anyone interested call me at (703)243-3544. The next meeting of the Civic Federation on February 5th at 7:30 p.m. at the Til Hazel Auditorium will feature Ron Carlee as guest speaker. The public, as always, is invited to attend these meetings, although delegates and alternates get to ask questions first. If you have questions you'd like us to ask the County Manager, please let one of your delegates know.GARDENERS: Several public education opportunities -- this Saturday, January 26th, Organic Vegetables, Starting From Seed, will be offered at the Potomac Overlook Nature Center from 2 - 4 p.m. In February, a Pruning/Rejuvenation Program will be offered at the Quarry Garden at 10 a.m. (I don't remember that date - oops). On March 16th, a full day workshop will be offered to the public at Fairlington -- fee. We still need more Block Captains (even if it doesn't snow gallons). Please consider volunteering for a rather straight-forward, good-neighbor job. Hope all is well with everyone. Enjoy the warmish weather.
Kim
Sent: Monday, January 07, 2002 9:40 PM
Dear Neighbors:
Hope everyone had splendid holidays and that everyone is hale and hearty! We enjoyed Nashville -- particularly the weather which was much milder than what I confronted stepping out of the car upon our return! A few little items tonight:
1. Tomorrow is the Civic Federation meeting. The County Board will appear and answer questions from delegates and alternates. The public is always welcome (just can't talk). It's at 7:30 p.m. in the Til Hazel Auditorium at Virginia Hospital Center-Arlington. If anyone has any questions they wish to have asked, please notify one of your delegates. If you want the electronic newsletter, let me know.
2. The Arlington Furniture Bank (which donates used furniture to people transferring from a shelter to an apartment) is in DESPERATE need of donated household goods (no clothing or food). They particularly need bed linens. If you're doing early Spring cleaning, please keep them in mind. The Furniture Bank is located in the basement of Westover Baptist Church (Wash. Blvd. entrance) in the back. If you have things to donate, I'll put you in touch with the coordinator. Just let me know.
3. One of our neighbors reported grafitti across Military Road. It might have been gang tagging. Please report ANY grafitti, because that's one sure-fired way for gangs to establish "turf". UNACCEPTABLE!
4. I can't make the Neighborhood Advisory Committee Meeting this Thursday. Can anyone substitute?
5. The Executive Committee of Bellevue Forest CA will meet the last Wednesday of January at either my house or Pete Tyler's (location still undecided; time 7:30 p.m.). All neighbors are always welcome -- to come or to voice concerns they would like discussed. Just let us know. Hope you all have a wonderful week.
Kim
Sent: Friday, December 21, 2001 12:55 AM
Dear Neighbors:
It's hard to believe that 2001 is almost over. It's been a difficult year in many respects but also one filled with joys and successes. One can always draw comfort in knowing that, no matter how uncertain the rest of the world may be, Bellevue Forest is still the best of all neighborhoods and you all make it that way! There really are purposes to this e-mail - besides me waxing nostalgic. Bellevue Forest has twinkled brightly this season, and the Holiday Lights went on as scheduled under Cynthea Riesenberg's able direction! Here's her report: "Bellevue Forest at night has never looked lovelier, and this year's
judges of the holiday lights competition marveled at the creativity and flair of our BF neighbors. From among the many deserving holiday displays, our worthy panel of judges (Rev. William Hoffmann, Jill Martin, and Mary Rowland) chose the following for special mention: Best use of lights Winner: Wilson 3133 N. Quincy Runner-up: Tuck 3117 N. Military
Best use of natural Winner: Wiberg 3016 N. Pollard Runner-up: McGavin 3027 N. Peary
Most dramatic Winner: Bonino 3833 N. 30th St. Runner-up: Megan & Prethan (we only know their first names!) 3107 N. Nelson
Most whimsical Winner: Kettelle 3134 N. Piedmont Runner-up: Jurkevics 3817 N. Roberts Lane
Congratulations to all!"
On other fronts: POLICE: We have just received the First District Police Report. If anyone would like a copy, please let me know. (It's a bit dated - like September! because the PD has had its hands full lately). We also receive the crime reports daily. The only activity in our area, aside from the silver/jewelry burglaries, was a sexual assault of a 16 year old on N. Vacation Lane. Please be careful. CONSERVATION: We met with the County on our Conservation Plan, and after a few amendments, we'll be ready to go. The County will fund our top priorities, so ALL neighbors are invited to offer their suggestions (Please). We also need to think seriously about our signs. It appears the County is now only dealing with one vendor - a granite group - so
look at the Williamsburg/Donaldson Run/Lyon Park signs and think about what you'd like within that framework (or do we want to pay for our own?) NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH: We're still advertising for Block Captains. Please don't be shy. Contact Rosemary Padberg and volunteer! HISTORIC PRESERVATION: The Advisory Committee has developed a new
framework for historic preservation in Arlington. If you'd like to read what they have to say, e-mail me. NEIGHBORS IN THE NEWS: I hope you all had the opportunity to see the wonderful write-up in the Post on Jim and Emilia Govan's nativity
collection. The pictures accompanying the article were marvelous! In the meantime, if you do e-mail me, please be patient. On-Line has to go Off-Line for about a week, but it will be back in business soon. We wish all who celebrate Christmas a very merry one - and to all our neighbors, we wish you a New Year filled with health, happiness, joy in even life's smallest gifts, and peace - here and elsewhere. Stay safe and well - and send any questions, suggestions or concerns to Pete@BellevueForest.org or Dan@BellevueForest.org.
Kim
Sent: Tuesday, December 11, 2001 5:40 PM
Subject: Bellevue Forest - Silver Burglars in North Arlington
Dear Neighbors:
Silver Burglars are the focus of the latest Crime Solvers case --having struck 4 times in N. Arlington and apparently 4 in McLean. This is the official Crime Solvers bulletin which I converted to narrative so as not to send files. (Once burned.... Thank you all who sent nice notes forgiving me for sending those darn virus warnings. The guy really is an expert -- guess they can be fooled, too.) Please be vigilant. Talented burglars spend from 30 to 60 SECONDS in accomplishing their tasks. Silver Burglars on the Prowl: (Arlington, VA) The Arlington County Police are investigating a series of residential burglaries that began in September. So far the burglars have hit four times in North Arlington neighborhoods and may be responsible for four similar burglaries that have occurred in the McLean area of Fairfax County. These particular burglars are specifically targeting expensive silverware and jewelry and have stolen items valued at roughly $250,000.00 in Arlington County alone. The latest burglary occurred on Saturday, December 1st between 9:45AM and 1130AM. The burglars entered the home after removing the screen to a lower level window and then prying it open with crowbar-type tool. Once inside the residence the burglars go straight for the sterling silver flatware and leave the less expensive silver plated items behind. The burglars also took 14 pieces of expensive women's jewelry. The burglars, a man and a woman, were seen running from the house me where they got into a getaway car that was parked across the street. The driver of the getaway car was a man. The woman burglar in this case is described as a white female, 30-40 years old, 5'6"-5'08" with a medium build, dark brown curly shoulder length hair, she was last seen wearing a white headband, with a dark blue T-shirt. The male burglar is described as a white male, 20-30 years old, of medium height and build; he was last seen wearing a black knit cap pulled down near his eyes. He had dyed blond wisps of hair protruding from under the cap and brown medium length hair; he was also wearing blue jeans and carrying a black canvass type bag that had handles on the top. There is no further description on the driver of the getaway car; although, the getaway vehicle was described as a Toyota, 2-door, silver or metallic blue the license plate had blue lettering on white background that indicates they were probably Virginia tags. The vehicle may have rear end damage. Arlington County Crime Solvers is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to the identification or arrest of these suspects. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Solvers at (703) 522-TIPS (8477), or the Arlington County Police Department at (703) 558-2222. Callers remain anonymous and do not need to testify in court.
Media Contacts: Detective Jim Page (703) 228-4331 Sergeant Jim Daly (703) 228-4050
Sent: Wednesday, December 05, 2001 11:54 AM
Subject: [Fwd: Fwd: Re: [penrose station chat] A Bridge Too Far!]
Good morning! This isn't news many of us want (not sure about several of you), but since it involves a) traffic; b) South Arlington; c) goes in contravention of the CivFed position, I thought I'd send it on. Another example of sneakiness in development in Arlington!
Kim
From:
John Antonelli
To:
Tom Greenfield
Subject: Re: A Bridge Too Far!
Date: Mon, 03 Dec 2001
Tom:
As Chris Zimmerman pointed out, even if the Stadium Authority does not have eminent domain rights, the State surely does and could take the land and give it to the Stadium Authority. I note that Mark Warner has strong associations with the Virginia Baseball Club, and the County within the last five years has extended some pretty large water mains from the Pike to the Country Club in the area of Rolfe Street for "future expansion". The Costco area is way too small for the parking they need, even if the Crystal City offices give up their parking for the evening (most of those spaces are rented and not available to give up). That is what I know for sure. I heard as a rumor the Country Club was a stadium site due to its access to 395 and larger lot size. busses could be used to shuttle folks to the Metro. Finally, I should note that this is not the only Country Club Army Navy owns and remind everyone that while the Stadium Authority says it is too early to discuss a site, they are doing just that in secret. Moreover, when a site becomes known, it will be a done deal with all the paperwork signed sealed and delivered and the only thing the neighborhood gets to bargain for is street trees and brick pavers.
Sent: Friday, November 30, 2001 7:41 AM
Subject: Bellevue Forest
Dear Neighbors:
Just a quick one: The Civic Federation newsletter is now available in electronic form. The topic of next Tuesday's meeting is our public schools, and the School Board plus the Superintendent will be available to answer questions. If anyone would like the electronic version, please e-mail me and I'll send it on. Have a wonderful day.
Kim
Sent: Tuesday, November 20, 2001 11:27 PM
Subject: Bellevue Forest - Request from County for Input on Proposed New Metro Line
Our President, Pete Tyler, received this communication from the County recently. We encourage you to consider the proposal and to provide input to our County leaders. If you have questions that you want the County to answer,and get answers, please share them with the rest of us. We’ll put them out in e-mail for the widest possible audience.
Subject: Proposed Metro Expansion
November 16, 2001
Dear Civic Leader:
I am writing to you in my capacity as Arlington's representative on the Metro Board of Directors. As you may know, Metro staff have recently completed an analysis of the "core capacity" of the rail system, and made preliminary recommendations for improvements. This involves many key issues, such as the ability to operate eight-car trains (currently the longest trains
operated in the system are six-car), improved connections between lines, and the capacity of maintenance facilities. As part of the study, staff also made some entirely new proposals for future expansion of the system. (If you click on the following link to the Washington Post -- www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/metro/daily/oct01/metro101901.htm -- you will see a map showing the proposed expansion.) Among these are a proposed new line in the District of Columbia from Georgetown to Union Station; another segment from Union Station across Anacostia to Largo, Maryland; and a new crossing of the Potomac. Also included is a proposal for a new line that would run across north Arlington, from Rosslyn to East Falls Church. It is on this last proposal that I am seeking your input. Under this new proposal there would be: 1) a new Metro line along the I-66 right-of-way from Falls Church to Rosslyn, 2) up to three new stations in north Arlington: a) in the vicinity of Spout Run and Lee Highway; b) near Quincy Street; c) just west of George Mason Drive, 3) an expansion of the East Falls Church station; 4) a new river crossing at Key Bridge. The intent of these changes is to ease congestion on the Orange Line, by providing a direct connection to downtown for the new Tyson's-Dulles extension. Cost for this new line is estimated in the vicinity of $2 billion in current dollars. This is an issue which could have significant impacts for Arlington - all of which I believe need to be thoroughly identified and explored before we, as a community, respond with our concerns, questions, and recommendations. As this is a new proposal, not included in any previously adopted plan either by Arlington County, Northern Virginia, or the Metro Board, it has not been evaluated in terms of its relationship to Arlington's Comprehensive Plan. I have requested that the County Manager have staff perform a preliminary evaluation of this proposal in terms of Arlington's adopted plans, and provide any thoughts or recommendations he may have. When I receive the Manager's response I will share it with you. I am requesting your assistance in promoting community discussion of this issue, while it is still early in the process. I would appreciate your encouraging your membership, and any others you know who might take an interest in this matter, to share your comments with me. You can help by publishing this request for comments in your newsletter, announcing it at one of your meetings, posting it on your website, or any other way which reaches the widest audience. Comments can be submitted via a form on the County's website at www.co.arlington.va.us/cbo/news/metro.htm ; the County Board email address at countyboard@arlington.va.us ; by fax at 703-228-7430; or U.S. mail at the address listed below. As your representative on the Metro Board of Directors, I will make certain that all comments received are shared with my colleagues on the Board of Directors at the appropriate time. Thank you for your assistance in assessing what is in the best interests of Arlington as discussions on plans to expand Metrorail continue around the region. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Christopher Zimmerman
Vice Chairman
NOTE: This will be repeated in the soon-to-be-sent (after it's composed) newsletter. In the meantime, we hope you have a Safe and Happy Thanksgiving.
Kim
Sent: Thursday, November 08, 2001 11:43 PM
Subject: Bellevue Forest
Dear Neighbors:
Several items of concern/possible interest.
CHILDREN
It appears our children are lucky to be alive. A number of neighbors have now reported near misses because of chilren's unique abilities to be concealed and to move unbelievably quickly. Parents: you have been officially asked if you could please put lights on your children's bikes. Most of us are actually quite fond of our little ones and don't want to lose any.
DONALDSON RUN DAY (forwarded from Dan Radke) Come relish the beauty of your backyard stream on Donaldson Run Day! Join your neighbors and local community groups for this special event, which will bring together the community surrounding Donaldson Run. We will learn about the human and natural history of this stream and how we can better protect it. Landowners in the watershed will learn how they can help protect Donaldson Run and be eligible for tax benefits or monetary compensation. The event will take place at Taylor Elementary School, at 2600 N. Stuart Street, on Saturday, November 17th from 1-3 PM. Activities will include updates on Donaldson Run, the Living Waters slideshow, an introduction to conservation easements, several informational booths and displays, and naturalist-led walks. Participants will also have the opportunity to create a Friends of Donaldson Run group! Find out more about this proposed group and what it means to you at Donaldson Run Day. Adults and children 6 and older are welcome! For more information, contact NVRPA at Potomac Overlook Park at 703-528-5406. This event is sponsored by Audubon Naturalist Society, Potomac Overlook Regional Park, Gulf Branch Nature Center, Arlington County, and the Northern Virginia Conservation Trust. (Dan discovered our toxic spill and is an official Stream Monitor -- as well as VP and Web Master!)
WANTED - WONDERFUL, LOVING HOME FOR LARGE SCHEFFLERA Thank you for putting the wee notice about our schefflera in the e-newsletter. I just went out and measured the little darling, and it's 7 feet high (including the clay pot) and 4 feet wide. Of course it could be trimmed. It's a pretty plant, actually, and if I had any choice I would keep it here. If you're interested, please e-mail me and I'll hook you up with the owner.
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS IN ARLINGTON Tonight, the County Boardroom was the site of a meeting on the level of Emergency Preparedness in the County. Citizens and organizations were invited to submit questions on everything from bioterrorism to natural disasters, from needs for evacuations to needs for lock-INs in schools, from the delivery and distribution of massive supplies of vaccines or antibiotics to protection of our water supplies and bridges -- and the all-important -- communications. The program will be re-broadcast frequently on Arlington Cable Station Ch. 31. The County is also developing a list of recommended supplies to deal with emergency situations (including protracted ice or snow storms). You all might find this of interest. Despite global warming, winter might come!
NCAC REPORT This has now been submitted to the County in draft form. A 6 month review process by different departments will begin. The County has offered us a variety of electronically generated maps. We've asked for Zoning, General Land Use Plan, Streets and Topography, Sidewalks and Lighting. Anyone have any other suggestions? It doesn't hurt to ask.
NEWSLETTER We are about to start our hard copy newsletter, especially designed for those who aren't on-line but hopefully of interest to On-Liners as well. If you have any suggestions for items of inclusion -- including concerns, requests of the neighbors, etc., please send them to me.
NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH We're still looking for a few good men and women to be block captains for our reinvigorated Neighborhood Watch/Communication Network (particularly for seniors). Please let us know if you're interested. It shouldn't take much of your time and could make life a lot better for all of us.
GENERAL COMMENTS I spoke with a Forester today who indicated that she had often thought of e-mailing me on issues but was reluctant to add to my e-mail volume. PLEASE don't hesitate to contact me with any concerns, ideas, etc. We have a wonderfully creative neighborhood, and the suggestions, concerns and ideas are far better if they are shared among us.
Have a great Friday (and weekend, too).
Kim
Sent: Wednesday, November 07, 2001 6:48 AM
Subject: Bellevue Forest
Dear Neighbors:
The following are a few tidbits that might be of interest. #1 -- One neighbor reported almost running over children hidden
by leaf piles in the street. Please let your children know that they need to be at least somewhat visible, have a spotter to warn them of approaching vehicles, or conversely, to warn cars of children in leaves, etc. #2 -- A small shark (stuffed) was left at another neighbor's home on Halloween. If your child is missing a beloved Jaws, please let me know. #3 -- The following is an invitation to neighbors to meet Alice Rivlin of the Brookings Institute for a discussion. Hope you are all well.
Kim
The Future of Washington's Neighborhoods with Alice M. Rivlin Co-Director of the Greater Washington Research Program
Brookings Institution Tuesday, November 27, 2001 6:30 Refreshments, 7pm Program Sumner School, 1201 17th Street NW, D.C., on the corner of 17th and M Streets (closest Metro station: Dupont Circle, South Exit)
What kind of city do we want Washington to be? And what kinds of policies and strategies will get us to our goals? In the 2001 Brookings Institution report, Envisioning a Future Washington,co-authors Carol O'Cleireacain and Alice M. Rivlin described a vision of Washington, D.C. in ten years with 100,000 more residents, about half of them in families with children. They argued that an ambitious residential strategy is needed to grow the city's tax base and improve its services, especially schools. A city with children will cost more, the authors said, but concluded that it was clearly more desirable than an increasingly childless city and could be financed. Ms. Rivlin will pick up from where the report left off, discussing where
additional families might live, how those possibilities can fit with neighborhood planning activities underway, and what kinds of policies and strategies can preserve neighborhoods and maintain economic, racial, and cultural diversity. Alice M. Rivlin, a Washington resident for 44 years, is a Senior Fellow in the Economic Studies program at the Brookings Institution. She served as Chair of the District of Columbia Financial Management Assistance Authority, otherwise known as the Control Board, from 1998 to 2000. Ms. Rivlin served as Vice Chair of the Federal Reserve Board from 1996 to 1999. She was Director of the White House Office of Management and Budget from 1994 to 1996, and Deputy Director (1993-94). In addition, Ms. Rivlin supervised the report, "Financing the Nation's Capital" of the Commission on Budget and Financial Priorities for Washington D.C. Her books include Systematic Thinking for Social Action (l971), and Reviving the American Dream (1992).
RSVP (attendance only): Cassie Seiple, WRN, 202-667-5445, e-mail: staff@washingtonregion.net ;
http://www.washingtonregion.net
For Envisioning a Future Washington, see: http://www.brookings.edu/es/urban/gwrp/DCfuture.htm
___________________________
Washington Regional Network for Livable Communities
ph 202/667-5445
fax 202/667-4491
Sent: Monday, November 05, 2001 4:20 PM
Subject: Voting Clarification - Bellevue Forest
Dear Neighbors:
Seems I've confused more that one person! We vote in the Thrifton Precinct AT the Woodmont School. Please don't go wandering around Arlington wondering where to vote. We have had no change! (That's what happens when you've been an Election Official for 2000 years. You speak a different language!) Also, this is for parents of teenagers. Two young ladies, dressed in black at night, with legs stretched languidly into the middle of Roberts Lane, almost met their maker several nights ago. Please talk to your teenagers about appropriate safety measures (like getting out of the way of cars! and being visible to cars). Same goes for the neighborhood speed limit. We have a few Evel Knievels in Bellevue Forest, and we all know what happened to him! Thanks!
Kim
Sent: Monday, November 05, 2001 11:58 AM
Subject: Belllevue Forest News
Dear All:
Hope you're having a wonderful coldest-day-of-the-year-so-far! Today consists of lots of bits and pieces. First, it has been both warm and dark -- a deadly combination for children playing outdoors. PLEASE drive slowly in the neighborhood and be watchful of things darting into the darkness (or daylight for that matter). Second, tomorrow is Election Day. We vote at Thrifton, polls open 6 am - 7 pm. If you are ill or incapable of walking to the polling station but can be driven there, a worker can come out to your car to give you a paper ballot. Third, because tomorrow is ED, there will NOT be a Civic Federation meeting. The newsletter is out and I will send the electronic version to any who might be interested. It is 8 !! pages long and includes everything from the legislative package to recent developments on I-66 widening and the airport and the stream clean-up of Four Mile Run. Lots of goodies. Just e-mail me if you wish a copy. The meeting will be held the SECOND Tuesday of the month. Fourth, Ted and Julianne Hill report that the Rockefellers (both in their 90s) have moved into a retirement home. If you know them, please send cards. Here's Julianne's message: "The Rockefellers have moved into Bluemont Park Sunrise 5910 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA 22205-1560. Perhaps the neighborhood could send her a card or two." Fifth, leaf collection in Bellevue Forest begins November 8th (along with 9 other Civic Associations so it might be later). It can't come soon enough. We're drowning in leaves on Piedmont -- although your children have had great fun playing in them (with permission!). Sixth, this weekend bags were placed on your doors for Scouting for Food. Collection is next Saturday. Please be as generous as you possibly can. The Food Banks are in crisis mode! Seventh, the Contractor List is nearing completion (although it will be updated as new entries emerge). It will be available on Bellevue Forest's Web Site. Eighth, the Web Site will be unveiled in the next several weeks. Dan Radke, our multi-multi-talented web guru, will be putting final touches on this. Ninth, the Garden Club meeting will feature neighborhood Chef Extraordinaire Hank McEntee. All women are welcome to join us at 12:30 p.m. Tenth, Holiday Lights will again take place. Stay tuned for details, and we'll do a better job getting the award signs out. Eleventh, Project We Care will be distributing funds to the police to buy food for free-and-reduced priced lunch children during the holidays. Contributions are tax deductible, and again, the need is great. Even $5 would be a great help toward this cause. Checks should be made payable to the Crime Prevention Council (which administers this for the police department) and can be dropped off at my home or sent to P.O. Box 3446, Arlington 22203. Twelfth, the NCAC Report Draft is ready to go to the County. Hallelulah!
Have a great day!
Kim
Sent: Saturday, October 20, 2001 1:36 PM
To: jadam@erols.com
Subject: [Fwd: Fwd: Police News]
Dear Neighbors:
I generally never send an e-mail I received to the neighborhood -- I wait til you ask. However, there's been so much concern and misinformation on the anthrax issue -- and this comes from the 4th District Police. Just delete if you're not interested.
Thanks. Have a good, safe day.
Kim
-----Original
Message-----
From: Thomas Panther [mailto:Tpanth@co.arlington.va.us]
Sent: Wednesday, October 17, 2001 3:07 PM
Subject: Police News
With current events, I want to assure everyone that the entire Arlington County Government, including police, fire and public health officials, are working to address the numerous calls we are getting about suspicious packages, etc.
In addition, we have added personnel on various shifts to perform additional duties that I will not elaborate on. All of the precautions the various agencies are engaging in are meant to enhance the public safety of all who live, visit or work here.
In the meantime, a web site you might want to visit for up-to-date updates on current events and some safety recommendations, including what constitutes a suspicious package is: www.fbi.gov
In addition, I have attached a fact sheet from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) on anthrax and exposures to it.
Sent: Friday, October 19, 2001 10:36 AM
Subject: Bellevue Forest
Dear Neighbors:
Four items - one of which is a question. First, does anyone know where flu shots are being given (Arlington Hospital? Safeway?) in a more public setting?
Second: From 9:00a--3:00p in the lot at the Arlington Traditional School, 801 North Edison Street, Arlington, VA there will be a Pedals for Progress bike collection. The non-profit group has a website for anyone to check out for more info. Essentially, the charity accepts bicycles, ships them overseas (they ask for a $10 donation to cover the costs of shipping a bike), and third world countries configure the bikes to their transportation needs.
Third: On this same date (Sat 10/20), Arlingtonians for a Clean Environment will accept items for disposal that are considered
environmental hazards (paint cans, etc). That collection is at the Arlington Recycling Office, which is in the same area as the school. So it will be an opportunity to clean up and support a variety of efforts.
Fourth: The Arlington County Bicentennial Task Force Cordially Invites You to Attend: Arlington’s Bicentennial Interfaith Service Hosted by The Most Reverend Bishop Paul S. Loverde, D.D., S.T.L., J.C.L. Bishop of Arlington Saturday, October 20, 2001 7:30 – 9:00 p.m. THE CATHEDRAL OF SAINT THOMAS MORE 3901 Cathedral Lane Arlington VA 22203
=====
Hope you all have a good day.
Kim
Sent: Monday, October 15, 2001 9:52 PM
Subject: Bellevue Forest
Dear Neighbors:
The Smith's are NOT moving! Ted and Julianne Hill are hosting the "Farewell to the Neighborhood" tomorrow. If you come Chez Smith, we're liable to hand you a bulb planter, a rake, or a paint brush!
Several other items:
1. The Directories are either delivered (or in process) or mailed (Beechwood and Military). If you didn't get one, that means we have no record of dues being paid in 1999, 2000, OR 2001 (so if you want one.....). Several neighbors have inquired about purchasing extras.
We've always sold them at cost -- about $2 plus change. (I got a really good deal.) Thanks to Rose Mary Padberg, Vicki Shteir-Dunn, Nick Roth, Lucy Gordon, Jim Reo and Caroline Levy and Jamie Smith for "walking the 'hood", to Pat Chatten for proofing and addressing, and to all who volunteered to help. You all are great!2. Lucy has a wonderful maid who is available on Tuesdays. If you are interested, please let me know.
3. Rhea has found a great tree service that will give us a "group discount" if we hire them together. (This service has also been
recommended through those in the know at Master Gardeners.) Let me know if you need tree work and want to join the group.
4. Ran into the police at Turn Off the Violence Day. If you have recently moved into the Forest and bought a house with a burglar alarm, you must RE-REGISTER. If you have recently installed one, you must register it with the Police Department. Call them at 228-7374 for the forms.
5. The Police Department also does Home Security inspections. Target hardening as well as landscape changes can all contribute to a safer environment. Call Auxillary Officer Hurlock at 228-4051 to schedule one. The Crime Prevention Council also has a new book on home security -- how to do it safely and reasonably inexpensively.
6. Bike Registration -- Bike theft continues to be a problem. Sue Nelson also suggested that people NOT leave their children's bikes outside, particularly the night before garbage pick-up. You can also register your bike or your child's -- again, by calling Mrs. Hurlock (228-4051)...or we could have a "registration rodeo". Let me know if you're interested.
7. Speaking of crime, the First District (that's us) has experienced "camping thieves" of late -- people who set up shop in someone's yard or the parks and then sally forth into the neighborhoods for cash and credit cards.
8. The 2nd District (Ballston) has experienced an upsurge in auto theft -- particularly Acuras and Hondas. Please remember to lock your cars and keep valuables in trunks or under cover.
9. We have spoken over the years of reactivating Neighborhood Watch -- to also include getting news out quickly to those who aren't on-line. Rose Mary Padberg has agreed to head this up. We need block captains (generally no more than 10 houses). She'll be calling former captains to see if they're still interested in serving. We'd like to use this not only as eyes and ears for crime but also to insure that the needs of our residents, particularly older ones, are being met.
10. Our VERY best wishes to Ben Tate as he recuperates from surgery.
Hope you have a wonderful rest of the weekend.
Kim (not moving) Smith
Sent: Thursday, October 11, 2001 11:26 PM
Subject: Bellevue Forest
Dear Neighbors:
There's a bunch of stuff here, so please keep reading even though it's long. First are items for sale. (Please e-mail me at jadam@erols.com if you are interested, and I'll forward on to Kay.) Second, we are going to create a data base of contractors, plumbers, roofers, etc. for use by those of us in the Forest. (Please respond directly to Paul.) Third, there's a Candidates' Night on October 24th. Finally, one of our neighbors passed on some interesting information on downloading a Flag screensaver.
On the Directory: they are addressed and ready for delivery. We'll be walking them to most homes because they are $.80 each to mail (Piedmont, Monroe and Nelson have been claimed.) Any volunteers for your block? If you don't get your directory within about a week, our records indicate you haven't paid dues in a while. They are $8, payable to BFCA, c/o Joe Schifrin. Call me with questions at 703-527-0294.
Hope you are all enjoying the emergence of fall -- and getting those rakes ready.Kim
FOR SALE -- MEDIUM FORMAT 6X4.5 IN MINT CONDITION!
GREAT PRICE FOR THE ENTIRE PACKAGE
Because these old eyes need autofocus, I am offering the following medium format equipment for a steal.
Bronica ETRSi camera body w/ Speed Grip & AEII finder
PLUS Bronica ETRSi PE 150mm F3.5 lens
PLUS Bronica ETRSi PE 75mm F2.8 lens
PLUS Bronica ETRSi Polaroid back
PLUS two 120 Bronica backs
Also, for sale: a beautiful antique Korean blanket chest, with inlaid wood and original fittings. Comes in 2 separate parts on a stand. (48.5" h, 15" d, 31" w (34" w).
________________________________
CONTRACTORS:
Dear Bellevue Forest Neighbor:
Many of us have remodeled, or would like to, significant portions of our homes. And the need for plumbers, electricians, and other handymen seems to know no end. To help us all with the effort of finding capable, qualified service providers, we are now starting to assemble a neighborhood data base of contractors who have worked in our homes, a "Zagat Survey" of sorts. Will you contribute your insights? I am working to round up as much information as I can on contractors, remodelers, handymen, plumbers, electricians, roofers, masons, carpenters, driveway and sidewalk contractors, landscape services, and
heating and cooling services.
I encourage you to highlight those folks you used and liked, as well as those who fell short so that others don't have to suffer through the problem contractors. Here's the very basic data we are collecting:Company Name
Contact Person
Phone Number
Type of Work They Do Generally
Type of Work They Did
Last Time You Used the Company
Were You:Very Satisfied, Satisfied, Dissatisfied, or Very Dissatisfied with the Work?
Simply e-mail your input to remodelbellevue@aol.com .
This is a limited amount of information, but will help each of us by providing a starting point consisting of already tested contractors and service providers. Perhaps the next project will be a bit easier to get done! The data base, once complete, will be on-line and/or included in our newsletter by request and ultimately in our association directory in 2004 (next edition). Thanks for your interest and help.
Paul Weinschenk
_____________________________________
CANDIDATES NIGHT
Donaldson Run has scheduled their annual candidates night for Wednesday October 24, at Taylor School. I'm sure many of our residents would like to be aware of this.
Dan Radke, Vice President
Dan@BellevueForest.org
__________________________________
FLAGS
Dee Tierney sent this message to tell you about DeskFlag, a free software program for Windows computers. DeskFlag places an animated United States flag on your screen. The flag waves in the lower-right corner as you use your computer. DeskFlag was created after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and is dedicated to the memory of the victims. We hope that in some small way, using this program helps people demonstrate their condemnation of that senseless act. To download DeskFlag or get more information, visit the DeskFlag Web site at: http://www.deskflag.com/
Sent: Monday, October 01, 2001 6:58 AM
Subject: Bellevue Forest News On-Line
Dear Neighbors:
So much to do; so little time! Here's this weekend's list of requests/questions/news.
1. The Civic Federation meets this Tuesday at Til Hazel Auditorium (Arl. Hospital) at 7:30. On the agenda: updates on September 11th's events from the County (tentative); resolution on the proposed zoning
changes; resolution on Public Safety needs in Arlington. I have the full electronic newsletter. If you're interested, I'll send it to you.
2. In the last On-Line edition, we asked that you register for the Schools' Program through Safeway and Giant, specifically mentioning our immediate feeder schools. We forgot quite a few. Arlington Traditional, Arlington Science Focus are also popular destinations for our children. The following is from one of our neighbors with a gentle reminder to think of them as well: "My children go to Arlington Science Focus School and I know that many children in Bellevue Forest attend that school or one in the team (Taylor, Key, Science Focus and Jamestown). Would it be possible to repeat that message to include information on all of the public elementary schools that the Bellevue Forest children attend? I don't know the information for Key or Jamestown but I happen to know the Science Focus information (Giant 2976) (Safeway 2325). ALSO, many of the PRIVATE schools are on the list, so if friends, neighbors, etc. have attendees there, it would be helpful. REMEMBER, YOU DO NOT HAVE TO HAVE CHILDREN TO HELP CHILDREN.
3. Speaking of children, Arlington now has a 40-prong approach to helping Arlington children become productive members of society. The County Board and schools have bought into this, and several of us went to a one-day training session on this. I don't have an electronic version of the approach, but could unearth my hard copy for those who might be interested.
4. One of our neighbors has offered to compile a list of worker bees (contractors, electricians, plumbers, handymen, brick masons, etc.) who have met with the approval of your fellow neighbors. This could be posted on our Web Site (which we're still in the process of unveiling -- things take time) or maintained electronically to be sent out on an as-needed basis. We did just get a recommendation for an EXCELLENT HANDYMAN -- who has been used extensively by one of our neighbors --so if anyone is interested, just let me know. Is there interest in having such a list, and would neighbors agree to send recommendations/suggestions. I don't want Paul going to lots of trouble without there being sufficient interest.
5. Speaking of workers, we have a number of young people in this neighborhood who are interested in either yard work (remember falling leaves) or babysitting or petsitting. If anyone has an interest, I'll shoot you the original e-mails on same. Since school has started, this would probably have to be weekend work.
6. The Garden Club is always interested in have women of the Forest join them for their programs. We meet the second Thursday of each month for lunch (either at the Church of the Covenant or on a field trip -- October and April are field trips). Please let me know if any of you are interested in joining/attending this day-time group.
7. The Hills are leaving the Forest for retirement. Their house (on Roberts Lane) just went on the market. If you know of anyone who'd like to join our little community, please let me know. Of course, I'd love a clone of this family -- kind, hardworking, involved and who make the BEST cookies in the world.
8. Directory -- Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. The directories are in my car (done) and ready for delivery. If you've paid your dues ($8 payable to BFCA and sent to Treasurer Joe Schifrin), I have your card and will give you one if you want to stop by. Otherwise, they'll come as soon as I address them all, haul them to the Post Office, and get them in the mail.
9. Neighborhood Conservation Report -- One more section (haven't I said that before?) and we're ready for County Review.
10. Pets: PLEASE be a responsible pet owner. Keep your dogs leashed, pooper-scoop, keep your friendly (to others) cats safe, and keep those who like to rumble indoors (which is recommended for all cats by the shelter in any event).
11. Remember, our officers are Pete Tyler (aka Norman on Monroe), President; Dan Radke, Vice President; Joe Schifrin, Treasurer; Marilyn Castaldi Singer, Secretary, Kim Smith, Newsletter and On-Line. I've probably forgotten more than I've remembered in this e-mail, but I'm not too tired to wish you all a very nice weekend and week!
Sent: Thursday, September 27, 2001 10:07 PM
Subject: Bellevue Forest
Dear Neighbors:
Pete, Abby and I attended the Civic Federation meeting on the proposed zoning (footprint) changes. We will provide you with a report and updates as soon as possible. Other items: One of our neighbors has an upright piano (in wonderful tune) that she is interested in selling. It would be ideal for a young child interested in learning the piano. It is a "brown wood" (Elizabeth
readily admits she doesn't know her woods) with interesting bas or raised reliefs. If you might be interested (cost under $1,000), please let me know so I can hook you all up. In the meantime, if anyone has a black cat in the Donaldson Run side of
the Forest, please make certain it is confined. It is now apparently attacking other cats in the community. We would prefer that all cats stay alive and well. Calling the warden is the next step.
Thanks -- Kim (keep reading)
The following messages have been forwarded by residents and friends and may well be of interest to you. I'll echo Dan's request. Safeway or Giant shoppers need only go to the front office with their card, tell them which school(s) you wish to support, and you're done. Each time you make a purchase using your card, the schools will benefit. You don't have to save receipts or do anything else.
From Bellevue Forest VP Dan Radke
----- Forwarded by Daniel Radke/FOCAL on 09/21/01 09:08 PM -----
Help support our local schools!
Enroll your Safeway Club Card with the school of your choice, and your purchase totals will automatically be credited to that school (no tapes to save)! Log on to www.proghqtrs.com/safeway to enroll online, OR, stop by the manager's desk at any Safeway store. Remember to register EACH Safeway Club card held by your family members to ensure that all of your purchases are directed to your designated school!
Local schools:
Taylor Elementary School Code # 2211
Williamsburg Middle School Code # 2201
HB Woodlawn Program Code # 2215
Yorktown High School Code # 2200
Shop at Giant Food or another grocery store? Inquire on your next shopping trip to enroll in their version of these programs! These programs help our local schools to purchase computer equipment, software, textbooks, and school materials!
Other items of interest:
The Friends of the Arlington County Public Library will be holding a book sale on Saturday, October 13, from 9am -4:30pm at the Central Library (1015 N. Quincy St.). For details call 703-228-5981.
The Arlington Sister City Association will host an Arlington-Aachen Youth Orchestra concert on Sunday, October 7, at 4:00pm. The concert will be held at the Washington-Lee High School Auditorium and admission is free. The program will consist of works by Haydn, Bartok, Brahms, and Gershwin. In support of this concert, 45 musicians from Aachen, Germany will stay with Arlington host families. For more information,call 703-532-2676 or 703-527-3320. The Arlington County Sheriff's Office and the Citizens' Crime Prevention Council of Arlington will be holding a "town meeting" on Tuesday, October 16, 2001. The program will be held at Thomas Jefferson Middle School Theater (125 South OId Glebe Road). The topics will include security threat groups, aggressive driving, the detention facility, and senior adult programs.
Arlington Farmers Market: Saturdays 8:00am -noon. (Intersection of N. Courthouse Road, N. 14th street, and N. Uhle Streets). The market will be open each Saturday through December 15, 2001. All products sold are grown by the sellers. A master gardener plant clinic will also be held between 8:00am and 10:00am. Bring your garden questions, sick plants and bugs to local experts to help find answers.Fourth Annual Remodeled House Tour (tickets are $15.00 to benefit the Arlington Historical Society): Sunday, October 14, 2001- 1:00pm-5:00pm.
Visit five newly remodeled Arlington homes. For tickets and information, call 703-536-8270 or 703-276-2335.
Arlington Bicentennial Celebration:
Did you know that 2001 being celebrated as the 200th anniversary of Arlington? For more information on upcoming bicentennial events or to participate in the popular treasure hunt, visit www.arlingtonhistory.org.
The Arlington County Schools will host a dedication ceremony of the newly renovated stadium at Washington-Lee High School. This event will be held on Friday, September 28, 2001 at 6:30pm. Following the dedication ceremony, attendees are invited to participate in a "ceremonial first lap" around the track. For more information, call 703-228-6004.
From Crime Prevention Council:
Please beware of people taking advantage of the current situation to relieve you of your money. DO NOT agree to make donations by telephone. Only deal with organizations you are familiar with and only make donations if you have initiated the call. Remember: at www.guidestar.org you can check to see if an organization is an IRS approved 501(c)(3) organization
Please share the following with your employees and everyone you know.
There is an apparent scam going on amidst our recent national tragedy. Many blood drive sponsors have called to let us know that they received a phone call by someone who is misreprese