Newsletters
November 2019 Newsletter
 1. Summary of RSCA Annual Meeting, October 24: Mr. Gutshall opened his remarks with a summary of the challenges facing Arlington County as a home for the middle class, especially with regard to housing for the “missing middle” such as teachers and public safety officials. He believes the 1951 zoning code is in need of updating with regard to residential neighborhoods. Gutshall also observed that more schools will be needed, and that Arlington cannot absorb more cars. The County goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050 and the problems with stormwater resulting from decisions 60+ years ago to pave over most local streams, he said, will not be solved by installing bigger funnels/drains, but through slowing water flow and absorbing more of it during heavy downpours. He closed by observing that taxes from more jobs, such as Amazon, will help pay for capital improvements. Mr. Leach stated that safety is taken very seriously by his department, citing a Vision Zero campaign to reduce traffic injuries and fatalities. Two issues were raised with him by residents: recent traffic deaths on Little Falls Rd near Nottingham school and speeding/lack of sidewalks on 33rd Rd N between Glebe and Little Falls. Leach stated that a traffic survey was underway for Little Falls Rd and Williamsburg Blvd, and that traffic enhancements were being placed near Nottingham School. In addition: The nominating committee slate for RSCA Board for the 2019-21 period was approved without objection: Mark Luncher, President, Judith Wheat, Vice President, Charlie Flickner, Secretary, and Mike Whatley, Treasurer. Members at Large are: Roy Gamses, Mike Jensen, Nedim Kirimca, Jerry Paull, Lynn Pollock, Rob Simcox, Kevin Scott, Rob Topp, Joan Trabandt, and Doug Wagley. If you are interested in helping the Board with community issues, please contact the President, Mark Luncher, mluncher@gmail.com 2. Leaf Truck Alert: The first vacuum-leaf-collection in the Rock Spring Neighborhood is scheduled between November 25th and 30th. If you prefer to bag your leaves, free bags may be obtained at either the Lee Center (5722 Lee Highway) or the Madison Center (3829 N. Stafford St.) 3. Civic Federation: Tuesday, Nov 19, Refreshments at 6.30p, meeting at 7p. Hazel Auditorium, Virginia Hospital Center: Topics include:4. County News The Joint Facilities Advisory Commission's (JFAC) Scoping Committee will meet on Thursday, November 21, 2019, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting location is the Bozman Government Center, Room 715 (2100 Clarendon Blvd.).
Other Items:
5. News on Lee Highway planning and ways to stay up-to-date: The LEE HIGHWAY ALLIANCE is working with the County’s PLAN LEE HIGHWAY planning process to encourage and leverage broad citizen participation in the Plan Lee Highway process, which began in January. See both websites for information on their work, future meetings, and to sign up for email updates. https://www.leehighwayalliance.com/ 6. Arlington County Schools: Proposals for Elementary School Boundary Changes: Elementary School Planning for 2021: APS High School Options & Transfers Information for SY 2020-21 APS High School Options & Transfers Information for SY 2020-21 – see https://www.apsva.us/post/high-school-options-transfers-information-for-sy-2020-21/ Did you miss Middle or High School Information Night? See https://www.apsva.us/post/join-us-for-middle-high-school-information-nights/ for videos of Middle School Information Night, High School Information Night, and H-B Woodlawn Middle School Information night. Music Season Is Coming: Yorktown: Dec 12: 7 pm Band Concert Williamsburg Dec 5 - Band Concert For more information from the APS School Board: https://www.smore.com/kmec5-school-board-update?ref=email 7. Tons of Fun Play with your food! Sat., Nov. 16, 10 a.m.-noon at Walter Reed Community Center: Learn how to create an amazing, Pinterest-worthy fruit & veggie turkey appetizer centerpiece to take home You and your family will also create beautiful turkey tail fans to add to your festive décor. Just in time for your Thanksgiving feast! Register online or by phone at 703-228-4747 using activity code #730020-D! $8 per person. Looking for Holiday Gift Ideas. Paint a Plate at TJ Art Studios and transform a ceramic piece of pottery into a personalized work of art for yourself or someone special. https://parks.arlingtonva.us/programs/art/paint-a-plate/ Holiday Wreath Workshop: December 7, 1-4 PM. Adults. Using all-natural items, we’ll create some delightfully decorative crafts you can use to spruce up your home or give as special gifts. We’ll provide music, refreshments, basic instruction and enough materials for each participant to make at least two wreaths. Participants should bring hand pruners or wire cutters (if you have them) and any extra materials or special decorations you may wish to add. Teens ages 12 and up are welcome, but must be accompanied by a registered adult. For information: 703-228-6535. Meet at Long Branch Nature Center. Register here. 612949-L Winter Registration for Parks and Rec Activities: Begins Nov. 12: View the latest guide for all the fun nature & history activities available! Contact the newsletter editors for information or items to share, please email either Judy Hadden or Joan Trabandt |
October 2019 Newsletter
 1. Rock Spring Civic Association Annual Meeting: Thursday, October 24, 7 pm at Discovery Elementary School, Dining Commons. Join us for our Annual Meeting! The guest speaker is County Board Member Eric Gutshall, speaking about neighborhood traffic, safety and other neighborhood concerns. Please bring your questions/concerns about our neighborhood or County. We will also elect our officers and executive board for the coming 2 years. The ballot includes the following: *Incumbent President: Mark Luncher Members-at-Large: Dues ($20) may be paid at the meeting. 2. Civic Federation Meeting: Tuesday, October 15, 7 pm, Hazel Auditorium, Virginia Hospital Center. 3. News From Arlington Public Schools
College Fair, Tues, Oct 15, 6-8 pm, Thomas Jefferson Community Center, 3501 S. 2nd St. 22204 Beyond APS College Fair. Students register online to meet representatives from 100+ colleges, universities & trade schools. School Safety Forum: Keeping our kids safe, sponsored by Arlington County Council of PTAs, Cosechando Sueños para Nuestros Niños - Harvesting Dreams for Our Children. Fri. Oct. 18, Middle School Information Night for families of students entering middle school in Fall 2020, Mon. Oct. 28, 6 – 9:00 p.m., Washington-Liberty High School, 1301 N. Stafford St. 22201 Volunteer opportunities in Arlington Schools! For information, see https://www.apsva.us/volunteers-partnerships/ APS Quick Facts and School Calendar, 2019-20 school year, https://www.apsva.us/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/APSQuickFacts-new-update08-19.pdf, https://www.apsva.us/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/2019calendar_online.pdf 4. Marymount Farmers’ Market: Until November 23, Saturdays, 9 am to 1 pm 5. Walker Chapel Octoberfest, October 26, 9 am – 3 pm, 4102 N. Glebe Road Please no TVs, mattresses, computers or computer components, stuffed animals or broken items. And, save your books for the church’s Aprilfest sale next spring. Plan to join us for a fun day of shopping, good food, and kid’s activities, at the Octoberfest Sale, Oct. 26. 6. E-CARE: October 19, 8:30 AM - 3 PM. The biannual Arlington Environmental Collection and Recycling Event (E-CARE) allows Arlington residents to safely dispose of household hazardous materials and electronics, plus recycle bikes and small metal items among other things. Location: 1425 N. Quincy St., formerly known as the Buck Property, directly across the street from Washington-Liberty High School and the David M. Brown Planetarium. Commercial waste not accepted. View a complete list of accepted items. Rain or shine.
8. Rosslyn Cider Fest : Thurs., Oct. 17, 4-8 p.m. at Gateway Park 9. Fall Heritage Festival, Saturday, Oct. 19, 1 - 5pm, Gulf Branch Nature Center and Park, 3608 Military Rd, 1. The Panel and Performance event titled, “Learn from This Place: Bringing Arlington to Halls Hill” will be held Wednesday, November 13th at 6:30 PM at the Virginia Hospital Center’s John T. Hazel, M.D. Conference Center located at 1701 North George Mason Drive. Contact the newsletter editors for information or items to share, please email either Judy Hadden or Joan Trabandt |
September 2019 Newsletter
1. Rock Spring Civic Association Annual Meeting: Coming in October at Discovery Elementary School Dining Commons Elections for officers and board members will take place at the meeting. The Board generally meets once a quarter, plans the annual meeting, and helps residents coordinate with the County on any pending issues. If you are interested in serving as Officer/ Board Member please contact the president of RSCA, president@rockspringcivicassoc.org or one of the editors whose emails are at the end of this newsletter. 2. Civic Federation of Arlington: Tuesday, October 15, 2019 at 6.30pm, Virginia Hospital Center: Topics include Multi-Family Housing Zoning and Community Environmental Program. http://civfed.org 3. County Items of Interest: Permit Arlington: The first phase of Permit Arlington, a new online permitting system. Permit Arlington is a Countywide initiative to improve the customer experience for permitting, building and land development services. More than 30 permits will move from paper applications and in-person payments to the virtual system, eliminating the need for customers to visit County offices to complete these transactions. View details at the Permit Arlington website. Joint Facilities Advisory Commission: (JFAC) Scoping Committee will meet on Thursday, September 19, 2019, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting location is the Bozman Government Center, Room 311 (2100 Clarendon Blvd.).
The following meeting of the Joint Facilities Advisory Commission (JFAC) will be on Wednesday, September 25, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in the Syphax Education Center, Room 424 (2110 Washington Boulevard).
Please contact Matt Ladd if you have any questions prior to the meeting. Tree Giveaway: Arlington residents can now register to receive a free tree for their homes, thanks to Arlington’s Department of Parks and Recreation’s annual giveaway of 400 native trees. One tree is allowed per residence.
Pre-order deadline is 4 p.m. Wed., Sept. 18. Pre-Order Pickup: Fri., Sept. 27 from 3-6 p.m. and Sat., Sept. 28 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Native Plant Sale: Sat., Sept. 28 from 1-4 p.m. (purchase in person) Where: Long Branch Nature Center, 625 S. Carlin Springs Rd Free Art Bus: On Thursday, Sept. 19, everyone can ride the ART Bus for FREE as part of Try Transit Week! And all throughout the week, the ART Prize Patrol will be riding various routes, handing out giveaways! 4. Arlington Public Schools: Yorktown Half -Time Show: Friday, October 4 Get Involved! How to Volunteer with Arlington Public Schools (APS) See https://www.apsva.us/volunteers-partnerships/volunteer-application-form/application-process/ to learn more about the process and to access the application in English and Spanish. To see the current volunteer opportunities posted by APS, see https://www.apsva.us/volunteers-partnerships/volunteer-opportunities/. Upcoming APS Community Engagement opportunities: School Board Work Session, Tues. Sept 24, 7 pm Arlington Facilities and Student Accommodation Plan (AFSAP) Syphax Education Center, 2nd FL School Board Room, 2110 Washington Blvd. *Watch Board meetings live online or on Comcast Channel 70 or Verizon Channel 41. 5. Things to Do Clarendon Day! Sat., Sept. 21, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (rain or shine!) Fall Seed Collection for Reforestation Projects: Saturday, September 28, 2019, 1-3 p.m. We will identify trees and their seeds as we collect them and then bag and label them for transport to the VDOF. This is a wonderful project for families, children, and anyone interested in trees and replenishing our forests. Please wear sturdy shoes and bring a reusable water bottle. Registration may be found here. Contact the newsletter editors for information or items to share, please email either Judy Hadden or Joan Trabandt |
August 2019 Newsletter
1. Neighborhood Car Break-Ins: Submitted by Judy Hadden after speaking with Arlington Police. Protect your car and home from thefts – Rock Spring and other neighborhoods throughout Arlington have been hit hard by nighttime thefts from cars parked in driveways and on streets. Arlington County Police describe the majority of incidents we’re experiencing as individuals “car shopping” – moving from car to car looking for unlocked doors and quickly stealing items left inside, such as cash, cell phones, laptops, packages, and other valuables. Last month an unlocked car in Lyon Park was stolen when the keys were left in the car. Arlington Police are investigating reported incidents and thefts, reviewing home security camera footage, and encouraging residents to report suspicious activity by calling the Arlington Emergency Communications Center at 703-558-2222, or 9-1-1 in an emergency. Because it’s easy for any of us at some time to forget to lock car doors or roll up all the windows, Arlington Police are asking each of us to be part of the 9 P.M. Routine, a public safety campaign also being used in communities throughout the country. It’s easy, doesn’t cost anything, and can prevent thefts in our neighborhoods. Here’s how to participate: 9 P.M. Routine
Note: There has been much conversation on Next Door about thefts of locked cars and keyless entry fobs. If you have a keyless entry fob, check with your dealer about how to break the signal when your keys are in the house. Suggestions include wrapping in aluminum foil, placing keys in freezer or any steel box. You can join Next Door at https://nextdoor.com/ and choose Rock Spring as your local area to see and follow the conversation. 2. Old Dominion Drive and Little Falls Intersection: The County has determined that this intersection is dangerous because of the high number of accidents, so starting in September, this intersection will have restricted turning during rush hours. For more information see, https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/VAARLINGTON/bulletins/256a2ff 3. Rock Spring Civic Association Annual Meeting: Coming up in October. Please look for details in the September newsletter. 4. Neighborhood Conservation Capital Improvement Projects: Do you have an idea for a way to beautify your neighborhood or make it safer? Rock Spring Civic Association has 1 project on the list to place streetlights on a needy street, but we are looking for additional ideas of other projects that would serve your portion of RSCA. Please send your ideas to one of the newsletter editors (email at end of newsletter). Here is an expanded description of Neighborhood Conservation Projects. Submitted by Jerry Paull, RSCA Executive Board member: The Neighborhood Conservation Program helps improve and enhance Arlington neighborhoods. When the program was created in 1964, the goal was to empower residents by having them come together to discuss and share ideas for improving their neighborhoods. Today, the program provides funding for a variety of improvements: installation of sidewalks, curbs and gutters, streetlights, signs, park improvements, neighborhood art and beautification. This program empowers citizens to identify and plan projects in their own neighborhoods. There are two ways to initiate these projects: 1.Work with the Neighborhood Conservation Advisory Committee (NCAC) to submit a priority project that is identified in your Neighborhood Conservation Plan to the County Board for funding approval 2. Submit a resident request to your Civic Association and Neighborhood Conservation Representative, Neighborhood Conservation staff determine if a project request requires an amendment to the existing Neighborhood Conservation Plan and will work with the civic association to decide if the requested project should become a priority. After the County Board approves projects for funding, they go through a planning and design process. For each type of project, the process differs slightly. For example, new streetlights require a petition is signed by 60 percent of affected residents and park projects trigger a field study. There are two funding cycles throughout the year. 5. Arlington County Fair: August 14 - 18 at Thomas Jefferson Middle School on South 2nd Street. 6. Help Fill the Cruiser with Back-to-School Supplies: Thursday, August 15 from 6-8 pm Help Arlington County students start the school year prepared to succeed by donating new school supplies and other classroom materials during the Fill the Cruiser Back-to-School Supply Drive. All donated supplies will be provided to Arlington County Public Schools for distribution to teachers and students. Arlington County Police Department’s Community Outreach Teams and School Resource Officers will be collecting donations at:
Suggested items for donation include:
Those wishing to donate supplies but unable to attend the Fill the Cruiser events can drop off donations at Police Headquarters located at 1425 N. Courthouse Road on the 2nd Floor at the Administrative Support Unit between August 1 – August 15. 7. Arlington County Schools: See the most recent information and updates from Arlington Public Schools and sign up to receive future updates: https://www.smore.com/kcua8-school-board-update?ref=email. Arlington Public Schools also stays in touch with parents and community members through “School Talk” messages. See https://www.apsva.us/schooltalk/ for directions on signing up for School Talk, and additional APS School and Community Relations information. 8. Arlington Parks and Recreation: Don’t miss all the summer and fall activities and events in Arlington parks, community centers, and nature centers! See https://parks.arlingtonva.us/events/ For example: Bat Fest: August 24th, 6:30-9:00. Adults, teens, families ages 4 and up. Register children and adults; children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
Contact the newsletter editors for information or items to share, please email either Judy Hadden or Joan Trabandt
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July 2019 Newsletter
This newsletter is compiled by the Rock Spring Civic Association for residents of the Rock Spring neighborhood. 1. Storm Damage Information: We hope you survived Monday’s storm and none of you need this information.
2. A Plea for New RSCA Executive Board Members: In our fall meeting, elections for the Executive Board of Rock Spring Civic Association will be held. Some of our current board members have moved and others are retiring. We are in need of interested Rock Spring residents to join us. We usually meet once a quarter, unless there is a pressing issue affecting Rock Spring. Please consider how you can help our neighborhood moving forward to 2020. Send your name and contact information to one of the newsletter editors, email below. 3. Arlington Public Schools Information: Below are the names of the new or remodeled schools with clickable links.
4. School Board Meetings:
6. New Restaurants in our Neighborhood: Chicago Pizza with a Twist, 5645 Lee Hwy, https://www.facebook.com/ChicagospizzaArlington Café Colline: Below is a link to an ArlNow article about the planned opening of a Café Colline restaurant in the Lee Heights Shopping Center, replacing Cassatt’s. 7. Recreation and Parks Programs: Cool Creek Critters - Gulf Branch, Saturday, July 20, 3 - 4:30pm Ages 5 to 10. Dress to get wet as we spend some time exploring waterfalls, trying to catch water striders, and taking a closer look at some creek critters. Must wear closed-toe shoes in water. Free. #642829-B
Contact the newsletter editors for information or items to share, please email either Judy Hadden or Joan Trabandt
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June 2019 Newsletter
1. Judge Judith Wheat – Yes, on June 6th our Rock Spring Civic Association vice president, neighbor, active Arlington volunteer, highly respected trial lawyer and friend was sworn in as Judge for 17th Judicial Circuit Court which includes Arlington and Falls Church! When her eight-year term begins on July 1, Judge Wheat will join Judges Louise Di Matteo and Daniel S. Fiore II and Chief Judge William Newman Jr. on the bench of the 17th Judicial Circuit Court. For more information on this Circuit Court Judge position and Judge Wheat’s career, see https://www.insidenova.com/news/arlington/general-assembly-elects-fourth-circuit-court-judge-for-arlington/article_3b4f8f9e-32ca-11e9-b7ec-8361a87b2eec.html. For more on the 17th Judicial Circuit Court, see http://www.courts.state.va.us/courts/circuit/arlington/home.html. Please join us in thanking and congratulating Judge Judith Wheat! 2. Last School Board Meeting: Tuesday, June 18, 7 pm at the Syphax Ed Center, 2nd Fl School Board Room, 2110 Washington Blvd. *View Board meetings live online or on Comcast Channel 70 or Verizon Channel 41. **Watch Work Sessions live online. Work sessions are open to the public but no public comments are accepted. 3. Arlington Community Events:
4. Career Center Building Level Planning Committee: online application by June 24, 2019. APS invites community members to apply to serve on the Arlington Career Center Building Level Planning Committee (BLPC), a diverse group of stakeholders appointed by the School Board to provide input and help guide the next steps in planning for the Arlington Career Center Expansion. The BLPC will start to meet in September 2019. If you’d like to be part of the BLPC, complete your online application by June 24, 2019. Visit www.apsva.us/Engage for more community engagement opportunities. General APS calendar, School BoardDocs and/or School Board calendar. Arlington County’s Engage calendar. 5. Passion Into Action Challenge: Volunteer Arlington is offering a NEW challenge for students in grades K-12! This is an opportunity for students to lead through service by creating a meaningful way for students to increase awareness of the needs of our community. Visit our website to learn more and begin the challenge! 6. Change in ART Bus Schedule: The ART 53W extension to Westover will be eliminated starting on Monday, July 1. ART 53A/B service will still operate, but mid-day service will be eliminated. ART 53A/B service will operate Monday through Friday from 6:00 am – 9:14 am and 2:35 pm – 7:39 pm. View the new ART 53 schedule (PDF). 7. Arlington County Water and Sewer Cost of Service and Rate Study: The county is embarking on a Utility Rate Study and is looking for someone to represent single family/townhome dwelling residents that would be interested in serving on the Rate Study Advisory Group. The county would like to identify two potential candidates so that the facilitator of the group could briefly interview the two candidates and select one which would best complement the group dynamics. The selected individual would be asked to represent “Residential Customers: Single-Family/Townhome Dwelling” interests as they pertain to the
If any of you are interested in participating in the study please contact Lisa Wilson, who is a staff person in the communications sections of DES. Her email is llwilson@arlingtonva.us. 8. Columbia Pike Blues Festival Swing to the blues at the 24th Annual Columbia Pike Blues Festival Sat., June 15, 1-8:30 p.m. on the corner of Columbia Pike and S. Walter Reed Drive. Presented by Arlington Arts and the Columbia Pike Revitalization Organization, the Blues Festival features the best in contemporary blues and blues-inspired genres in the heart of Arlington. Fun for the whole family, the Festival has an array of kid's activities, food trucks, curated craft vendors, the Arlington Art Truck, and beer provided by New District Brewing Company. 9. Free Movies + Music at our Parks Beginning June 7, free outdoor movies can be seen on Fridays at Arlington Mill Community Center and Gateway Park, and Saturdays at Penrose Square. And starting June 14, enjoy the 50th Anniversary season of free live music at Lubber Run Amphitheater. 10. Turn Your Yard into a Wildlife Sanctuary! Would you like to turn your garden into a welcoming space for birds, butterflies and other native wildlife and help enhance the value of our urban green spaces? Get free advice on how to make your yard more wildlife friendly! The Audubon at Home Wildlife Sanctuary certification program assists homeowners in restoring their home’s natural habitat by providing information on sustainable gardening practices. These practices include using native plants, removing invasive species, reducing use of pesticides and fertilizers, and creating space for native flora and fauna. Audubon at Home ambassadors will visit and consult with you on suitable native plants, landscaping, water retention, or other best practices. To learn more about the program in Arlington or Alexandria, please visit audubonva.org to learn more. If you have additional questions, please contact Alda Krinsman or Alyssa Ford Morel. Volunteer ambassadors will arrange a site visit and talk with you about ways to enhance habitat in your garden. 11. Campfire Evenings: Friday, June 28, 7 - 8pm The whole family is invited to join us at the Gulf Branch fire ring for lots of old-fashioned fun. This engaging program will be filled with entertaining activities which may include stories, special animal guests, games, songs and of course, S’mores! We'll find out where to look for the earliest signs of spring this evening while keeping warm around the fire. $5. Skittering Skinks Campfire: #642859-B
Contact the newsletter editors for information or items to share, please email either Judy Hadden or Joan Trabandt |
May 2019 Newsletter
 1. Arlington County Civic Federation: Tuesday, June 4, 6.30pm, Virginia
Hospital Center 2. Lee Highway Alliance Design Studio: May
17 and May 31, 12 – 3:30 pm Signup for notification of upcoming Focus Groups: https://projects.arlingtonva.us/plans-studies/land-use/lee-highway/plan-lee-highway-focus-group-meetings/ Also, An Evening at Broadview: June 1, 5
– 8 pm 3. It’s Farmer’s Market Time: Marymount
Opens May 25, 9 to 1pm 4. NEW! "The Shop" Makerspace: A space open to beginning and advanced Makers for classes, one-on-one tutoring and open lab time. See https://library.arlingtonva.us/explore/for-makers-and-crafters/the-shop/ and https://www.flickr.com/photos/arlib/sets/72157679700839808 for more information and photos. 5. Free Paper Shredding & Inert Material Drop-Off, Saturday, June 1st, 8:00 am-4:30 pm, Earth Products Yard, 4300 S. 29th St, Arlington. Free! See more information at https://recycling.arlingtonva.us/events/free-paper-shredding-inert-material-drop-off-2019-06-01/ 6. Bike To Work Day: Friday, May
17 Keep your car parked, hop on a bike, and celebrate bicycling as a fun, healthy, and sustainable way to get around on Bike to Work Day! Meet up with your neighbors, coworkers, and first timers at one of the 115 regional pit stops to jump start your Friday with some fun. Bike to Work Day is a FREE event and open to all area commuters whether you’re new to riding or ride every day. Arlington hosts a bustling 10 pit stops around the County (morning and afternoon) to make it easy for you to join the fun no matter which route you ride. Register at the pit stop most convenient to you and receive the infamous Bike to Work Day t-shirt. http://www.bikearlington.com/bike-to-work-day/
7. MUSIC, MUSIC, MUSIC: May 23 - Yorktown Jazz Band on the Lawn, 7:00 pm June 6 - Yorktown Orchestra Concert, 7:00 pm
June 12 - WMS Orchestra Spring Concert, Auditorium 7:00 pm June 13 - WMS Chorus Spring Concert, Auditorium 7:00 pm 8. ENJOY ARLINGTON: Class registration for the summer session begins on Wednesday, May 15. See the full listing of class offerings for children and adults at https://web1.vermontsystems.com/wbwsc/vaarlingtonwt.wsc/search.html?display=detail&module=AR 9. Campfire Evenings: Queen of the Forest Campfire Saturday, May 25, 7 - 8pm The whole family is invited to join us at the Gulf Branch fire ring for
lots of old-fashioned fun. This engaging program will be filled with
entertaining activities which may include stories, special animal guests,
games, songs and of course, S’mores! We'll find out where to look for the
earliest signs of spring this evening while keeping warm around the fire. $5. #632859-E Arlington Nature & History Programs - Registration at https://web1.vermontsystems.com/wbwsc/vaarlingtonwt.wsc/splash.html |
April 2019 Newsletter
 This newsletter is compiled by the Rock Spring Civic Association for residents of the Rock Spring neighborhood. 1. Agenda Highlights for the April 2019 Arlington County Board Meeting: The Board meets in Room 307 on the third floor at the Ellen M. Bozman Government Center, 2100 Clarendon Blvd. All County Board Meetings are open to the public. Visit the County website for information on speaking at a Regular County Board Meeting. TO WATCH COUNTY BOARD MEETINGS ONLINE OR ON TV, SEE https://tv.arlingtonva.us/watch/. 2. Plan Lee Highway Information: The Kick-off Meetings Summary Report is now available. The summary includes feedback provided during January/February kick-off meetings, where over 200 community members reviewed principles from 2016 Visioning Study and preliminary goals for the planning process. Visit the study website to view the report and learn more. The Working Group met with County staff on March 21 and discussed a variety of topics, including the roles of the Working Group and Community Forum during the planning process, the community engagement strategy and upcoming schedule for Phase 1 of the planning effort. A meeting summary has been posted to the study website. Focus group meetings will be held throughout the process to foster small group discussions on specific topics, issues, geography, or neighborhood areas. Let us know if you would like to be invited to a future focus group and which Plan Lee Highway goals are of most interest to you. 3. National Drug Take Back Drop-Off: Saturday, April 27, 2019 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., The Arlington County Police Department, Arlington County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will give the public its 17th opportunity in eight years to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs. This disposal service is free and anonymous, no questions asked. The Arlington County Police Department will be collecting prescription drugs at the following sites: Fire Station #2: 4805 Wilson Boulevard Fire Station #9: 1900 S. Walter Reed Drive Courthouse Parking Lot: 14th Street N. at N. Courthouse Road For additional collection sites across the region, visit the site locator Please note: The DEA cannot accept liquids, needles or sharps. Only pills or patches will be accepted. To safely dispose of sharps, Arlington County recommends placing the item in a hard-plastic container, such as a detergent bottle, securing the contained and placing it in your trash cart. Permanent Drug Take-Back Locations in Arlington County: To provide residents with year-round opportunities to safely dispose of prescription medications, Arlington County installed permanent drug take-back boxes in 2018. Residents who are unable to attend the National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day events can dispose of potentially dangerous unused, unwanted, or expired prescription drugs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, with no questions asked at the following locations: Fire Station #2: 4805 Wilson Boulevard Fire Station #5: 1750 S. Hayes Street Fire Station #9: 1900 S. Walter Reed Drive Arlington County Police Department Headquarters: 2000 block of 14th Street N. Items accepted at the drug take-back boxes are prescriptions, vitamins, prescription ointments, pet medications, prescription patches and over-the-counter medications. Items not accepted are needles, inhalers, aerosol cans, thermometers, lotions or liquids and hydrogen peroxide. 4. Free Shredding Event: Saturday, May 4th at McEnearney Associates, Realtors in the parking lot at 4720 Lee Highway. For details go to: mcenearney.com/Arlington-recycles 5. A free showing of, ANGST, a film about teen anxiety: Monday, April 29th, 7 – 9 pm (doors open at 6:30), in the Yorktown High School auditorium. The film tells the stories of young people who discuss their anxiety and its impacts on their lives and relationships, as well as how they’ve found solutions and hope. The film includes discussions with mental health experts about the causes of anxiety, as well as solutions and resources, and following the film there will be a Q and A discussion with local mental health experts. Both teens and adults are invited to this showing of Angst. Please RSVP at WWW.APCYF.ORG. Beginning at 6:30 pm., local organizations and information will be available to teens and families, outside the auditorium. For more information about the ANGST film, visit www.angstmovie.com. Please see the flyer for this screening of Angst and share it with others. 6. The ARLINGTON TEEN SUMMER EXPO 2019: Saturday, April 27, 2019, from 11 am to 1 pm, at Wakefield High School (1325 S Dinwiddie Street, Arlington). The Arlington Teen Summer Expo, sponsored by the Arlington Employment Center, is offered free to teens, young adults, age 14 – 21 and there are no fees or registration required to attend the Expo. Find summer jobs, internships, volunteer opportunities, and career resources. See more information at https://aec.arlingtonva.us/draft/youth-services/teen-summer-job-expo/ and https://arlingtonva.s3.amazonaws.com/wpcontent/uploads/sites/27/2019/02/teenexpo19reg.jpg. 7. New Arlington Community Reports:
8. Jamestown Chorus/Band/Orchestra Concert: May 8, time - To Be Determined 9. Arlington Home and Garden Show: Saturday, April 27, 2019 10am-4pm, Kenmore Middle School. Information: https://arlingtonhomeshow.org/ Defending Chain Bridge Hike: Saturday, April 20, 10 - 12:30pm Families ages 10 and up. Explore the remnants of Forts Marcy and Ethan Allen, built by the Union Army to defend the Chain Bridge, to learn the stories of the forts and their defenders at this important junction between north and south. This is a three-mile loop-hike over occasionally rocky and steep terrain. Meet at Fort Ethan Allen Park, 3829 N. Stafford Street, Arlington. Free. #632759-F Let's Go Camping! Saturday, April 27, 4:30pm - Sunday, April 28 9:30am Families ages 5 and up. Your family is invited to join us at Bluemont Park for this introduction to camping OUTDOORS OVERNIGHT! Set up your tent (our tent-elves can assist) then enjoy some unplugged free time for relaxing or exploring the park. Bring a picnic dinner. Later nature center staff will lead you in songs, stories and S'mores around the campfire and provide breakfast before breaking camp. B.Y.O.T. (tent) if you have one. If not, we have family-sized loaner tents available for an additional $25, paid in cash on-site. For information: 703-228-3403. Meet at Bluemont Park, 601 N Manchester Street, Arlington. $15. #632859-I 11. Local Native Plant Sales
Contact the newsletter editors for information or items to share, please email either Judy Hadden or Joan Trabandt |
March 2019 Newsletter
1. 26th Street Task Force: from Rob Topp, RSCA representative: At the March 7 meeting, the task force eliminated three potential site layout concepts. This process will continue into the March 21 meeting. The task force hopes to reach agreement by the March 28 meeting regarding its recommendations to the County Board on what should be located on the site and where. A vote on a final report is scheduled for April 11.
At this point, there are three competing visions for the site: (1) County operations personnel want to expand the snow removal/road salting capabilities on the site, by adding brine tanks, a shift-change building and chain shop, and parking spots for 24 trucks. (2) Marymount University is pushing for a NCAA-sized soccer field to be located on the site. (3) The various neighborhood civic associations want as much green space as possible, preferably by not disturbing existing green space.
Task Force meetings are open to the public. The next meeting will be on March 21 from 7 to 9:30 pm at Marymount University, Rowley Hall, Rm. G127. Additional information regarding the Task Force’s work can be found on the County website at https://projects.arlingtonva.us/projects/26th-street-north-old-dominion-drive-site-master-plannning-task-force/.
2. Lee Highway Alliance: Educational Forum: Shared Mobility Devices: E-scooting/E-biking on Lee Highway: On March 30, 9:45-11:45, the Lee Highway Alliance will host an educational forum on E-scooters and E-bikes at the LHA offices, 4620 Lee Highway, Suite 208. LHA's objective in hosting the forum is to explore this new mode of transportation with discussion about both the pros and the cons - including safety issues. In addition, presenters will discuss how E-scooters and E-bikes can help to connect the Lee Highway Corridor and contribute to a complete street, and how the County and the State can implement good regulations which enhance safety. LHA welcomes robust participation from the community in this educational event.
Speakers will include - * Libby Garvey, Vice Chair of the County Board, * EVGO Charging Network, * Bird (private sector operator), and * County staff from Commuter Services who are running a nine-month demonstration program.
3. Arlington County Civic Federation: Next meeting: April 2, 7 pm, Hazel Auditorium, Virginia Hospital Center. The central focus of the April 2 Arlington County Civic Federation membership meeting will be the proposed FY2020 Arlington County and Public Schools budgets, which were released in late February (more information below). If you are interested in serving as an RSCA delegate or alternate to the Civic Federation, please advise the newsletter editor of our interest. http://www.civfed.org
4. Arlington County and Arlington Public Schools’ FY 2020 Budget: Information and opportunities to provide input:
5. Summer Employment Opportunity: Interested in a summer position with Arlington County? Go to the website for job descriptions, expectations, requirments, requirements, and application instructions. https://parks.arlingtonva.us/employment-opportunities-parks-recreation/
7. We Stand Ready - Tribute to the Modern American Soldier, March 23 and 24, 3pm, Conmy Hall, Fort Myer. Join in a special musical tribute to our post 9/11 Soldiers hosted by The United States Army Band and US Army Military District of Washington. The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" will perform music that captures the determination, patriotism, and esprit de corps found in today’s Army. This concert is free and open to the public, but tickets are required.
https://www.facebook.com/events/574906223012185/ 8. The Union Army Reenactment: Sat., March 30, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Fort C. F. Smith Reenactors from the 3rd United States Regulars and 54th Massachusetts will come to Arlington and set up camp at Fort C.F. Smith Park. Join in a day of living history that will include drilling, activities, specialized fort tours and more. Come learn about Civil War life in Arlington County and beyond at this free event. For more information, visit www.fortcfsmith.com 9. Planning your Perfect Small Space Garden, Monday, March 25, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m., Westover Branch Library, 1644 N. McKinley Road, Arlington 22205. What’s the big deal about small gardens? Small gardens can yield big results in food production, color, function, recreation, and aesthetics. Knowing your goals is essential. Learn to identify your objectives for your unique small space; get ideas on maximizing your space, learn the steps to evaluate your existing conditions and the basics of choosing plantings that will both meet your goals and thrive. We will consider container gardening, balcony gardening, vegetable gardening, and small in-ground gardens. This class is offered by Extension Master Gardeners. Free. Advance registration requested at mgnv.org. Questions? Telephone 703-228-6414 or email mgarlalex@gmail.com. 10. Parks and Recreation programs: Spring programs for all ages, toddler to adults https://parks.arlingtonva.us/programs/
Contact the newsletter editors for information or items to share, please email either Judy Hadden or Joan Trabandt |
February 2019 Newsletter
 1. Arlington Public Schools Celebrate Black History Month: Arlington: Past, Present and Future Excellence, February 20th from 6-8 pm at Washington-Liberty High School At APS, the story of the African American experience comes from the heart. From music and arts, to education and family, discover the trailblazers and legacies that make Arlington great, and come to hear the stories of courageous students and community members who have been change agents in the local community. This event will feature Jazz Musician, Rick Franklin, musical and dance selections from several APS schools, poetry, student, and community recognitions and Author Wilma Jones. "My Halls Hill Family: More Than a Neighbor" by Wilma Jones. Arlington resident and acclaimed author, Wilma Jones, recently published this historic memoir, which tells the story of the Halls Hill neighborhood along the Lee Highway corridor from the perspective of her family. Her parents, George Mason Jones, Sr. and Idabel Greene Jones were born in the Halls Hill community and lived their entire lives there. Scott Taylor, President of the Black Heritage Museum of Arlington writes: “’My Halls Hill Family’ … tells a compelling story of a one-time plantation that became a thriving and now historic African American neighborhood in Arlington, Virginia. The neighborhood is also famous for having the first all-black volunteer fire department (Fire Station 8) below the Mason-Dixon line.….” A must read for those interested in Arlington’s history, the book is available at the Arlington County Public Library, and is also available for purchase. Ms. Jones also has a YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_Wq1f12HRs For more events and information, visit https://www.apsva.us/black-history-month/ 2. Superintendent's Annual Update Report with Ten-Year Enrollment Projections: In a follow-up to the presentation of the Superintendent's Annual Update at the January 24 School Board meeting, staff has published a report that includes 2019-28 enrollment projections and the methodology used to develop these. For more information, visit www.apsva.us/statistics/enrollment-projections/; view the January 24 School Board meeting at www.apsva.us/school-board-meetings/view-school-board-meetings/ 3. 26th Street/Old Dominion Task Force: Submitted by Rob Topp, RSCA representative The 26/Old Dominion task force has started sub-committee work. In the next four weeks, the two sub-committees ((1) Parks/Open Spaces and (2) Operations) will start narrowing the choices of what to put on the site. If anyone has views on the 26/Old Dominion site or wants to discuss in more detail what is going on, please notify a newsletter editor with a phone or email address and we will put you in touch with Rob. 4. Lee Highway Alliance: submitted by Judy Wheat, RSCA representative The Lee Highway Planning Study has officially kicked off. The Community Forum, chaired by Paul Holland, had its first meeting on January 30. On February 8, the County held a number of focus groups with representatives of various civic associations, including RSCA, property and business owners, and special advocacy groups, for an initial listening session regarding community needs and wants for the corridor. Among the issues discussed were difficulties with parking and traffic, pedestrian safety, the lack of community open space, affordable housing, and retail diversity. On February 12, a community kick off was held at Washington-Lee High School. This was the first of many planned events designed to obtain public input into the Lee Highway Planning process and was widely attended by many in the community. Additional information regarding the planning study, as well as other planned events, can be found at projects.arlingtonva.us or on the LHA website at www.leehighwayalliance.com. In addition, the County expects to host a number of Open Studio events at the LHA offices at 4620 Lee Highway every other Friday, beginning February 22. This will provide another vehicle for community members to engage in the Plan Lee Highway study process. For more information, contact planleehighway@arlingtonva.us. 5. Arlington Civic Federation Meeting, March 5, 7pm at Virginia Hospital Center The meeting topic for March is the “challenges facing Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) and how it impacts Arlington (including the arrival of Amazon). Feature speakers include Arlington County Board Chair Christian Dorsey, who represents Northern Virginia jurisdictions as a principal member of the board of WMATA, plus a representative of the Federal City Council which has been instrumental in advocating for modernization of WMATA in the region. The meeting is open to the public.” (from the Civic Federation newsletter) To read the newsletter or see more about February’s meeting or any previous meeting go to the Civic Federation website, http://www.civfed.org 6. FREE Youth Mental Health First Aid Training, Saturday, Feb. 23rd, 9am-5pm Sequoia III Room 423, 2300 Washington Blvd. 22204. Registration required. Hosted by Arlington County Department of Human Services. 7. From the Department of Environmental Services: Sustainable Landscaping: Selecting Native Plants, Wednesday, February 20, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m., Columbia Pike Branch Library, 816 South Walter Reed Drive, Arlington 22204 There’s a palette of plants that is just right for you and that will thrive in your site’s conditions. Learn how to select appropriate plants for your site, what is meant by a native plant versus a cultivar, and some best management practices for installation and maintenance of your planting bed designs. This is the final class in a series on sustainable landscaping offered by Extension Master Gardeners to be held at Columbia Pike Branch Library in January/February 2019. Free. Advance registration requested at mgnv.org. Questions? Telephone 703-228-6414 or email mgarlalex@gmail.com. Urban Agriculture - Grow What You Eat: Starting Your Own Vegetable Garden, Monday, February 25, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., Westover Branch Library, 1644 N. McKinley Road, Arlington 22205 Learn easy-to-implement practices for selecting a site, and evaluating and improving your soil. Find out which plants grow best locally, which are best planted directly via seeds and which are typically transplanted as seedlings. Discover how to attract pollinators and other beneficial insects. Learn to identify and manage pests, weeds and diseases. Get free seeds and a vegetable garden calendar customized for our region. This is the third class in a series on urban agriculture offered by Extension Master Gardeners to be held at Burke and Westover Branch Libraries in Winter/Spring 2019. Free. Advance registration requested at mgnv.org. Questions? Telephone 703-228-6414 or email mgarlalex@gmail.com.
Plot Against Hunger 6th Annual Spring Garden Kick-Off, Saturday, March 2, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Arlington Central Library Come learn how to support our partner Arlington Food Assistance Center with fresh produce from your garden or community plot. There will be presentations on seed starting, composting, and lasagna & container gardening; exhibit tables on winter gardening and edible landscapes; and demonstrations of fruit tree pruning. Also, free vegetable and herb seeds will be available!
Spring Lawn Care and Turf Alternatives: Saturday, March 9, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Make your lawn a more environmentally sustainable part of your home garden. We will discuss the best types of grasses for our area, specific springtime turf management practices, nutrient management and soil testing, and basic pest and disease management. If, however, you’ve grown tired of the time and cost to mow, water, and fertilize your lawn, we’ll also discuss turf alternatives to the traditional lawn.
Urban Agriculture – Planning your Perfect Small Space Garden: Monday, March 25, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m., Westover Branch Library What’s the big deal about small gardens? Small gardens can yield big results in food production, color, function, recreation, and aesthetics. Knowing your goals is essential. Learn to identify your objectives for your unique small space; get ideas on maximizing your space, learn the steps to evaluate your existing conditions and the basics of choosing plantings that will both meet your goals and thrive. We will consider container gardening, balcony gardening, vegetable gardening, and small in-ground gardens. These classes are offered by Extension Master Gardeners. Free. Advance registration requested at mgnv.org. Questions? Telephone 703-228-6414 or email mgarlalex@gmail.com. 8. From Arlington Parks and Recreation: Even though it is Winter, there are lots of activities from Arlington Parks and Recreation for toddlers, preschooler, school-aged, and adults: https://parks.arlingtonva.us/parksfacilities/nature-centers-programs/ Spring Registration for all Parks and Rec programs begins Feb. 12: View the latest guide for all the fun nature & history activities available! http://arlingtonparks.us/snag/mobile/index.html 27th annual Feel the Heritage Festival, Saturday, Feb. 23rd, 1-6pm, Drew Community Center: Family Skate Nights: You and your family will enjoy a live DJ, moon bounces and fun on wheels at Skate Night. Café open for snacks; no outside food, drink or impromptu parties permitted. Saturday evenings through March 30 from 6:30-9 p.m. at Thomas Jefferson Community Center. Only $2 per person (cash only). Rent skates for $3. C.F. Smith Park Walking Tour: Sat., March 2, 9 - 10 a.m. #632759-A Fort C.F. Smith was one of the last Union forts built to protect Washington during the Civil War. We'll learn about the park's history, the role of the fort and the soldiers stationed there in the Civil War. Dress for the weather. Terrain will be uneven and possibly muddy. Fort C.F. Smith. Families ages 7 and up. Free. Sat., March 2, 9 - 10 a.m. #632759-A Sat., April 6, 9 - 10 a.m. #632759-B Sat., May 4, 9 - 10 a.m. #632759-C
Contact the newsletter editors for information or items to share, please email either Judy Hadden or Joan Trabandt |
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