Newsletters
December 2020 Newsletter
This newsletter is compiled by the Rock Spring Civic Association
for residents of the Rock Spring neighborhood.
As 2020 closes, we want to let you know that the RSCA distribution list is moving from Yahoo Groups to Google Groups. This newsletter is being sent to both groups. If you do not receive this newsletter from Google Groups, please contact at ageralnick@gmail.com and ask to be added to the Google Groups distribution list. Also, because we are moving to Google Groups where anyone can post a message for the rest of group, the RSCA Newsletter is retiring. We have included a list of links where you can sign up for information from a variety of Arlington County and APS Schools sites. Most of this information is what would be in the monthly RSCA newsletters. It has been a pleasure to share the newsletter with you. Please stay informed about the County and Schools and post important announcements to RSCA Google Groups to inform the rest of us about what is important for RSCA members to know. And, please only what is important for us to know. The address to send your post is rsca_arlingtonva@googlegroups.com Also, if you need assistance with a neighborhood issue, you can contact RSCA President, Mark Luncher at president@rockspringcivicassoc.org
Lee Highway Renaming: From the Washington Post
Last RSCA Leaf Collection for 2020: Begins Monday, December 14.
Arlington Storm Information: https://newsroom.arlingtonva.us/release/preparing-for-winter-in-unusual-times/ Includes a real time map of what roads have been cleared.
Civic Federation: Tuesday, December 15, the Civic Federation will provide an update on the long-awaited Reagan National Airport flight noise study jointly funded by Arlington and Montgomery County and its implications for noise mitigation in the skies over many Arlington neighborhoods. Secure your participation by checking in. Arlington Seeks New Member Applications for Audit Committee: The Audit Committee is seeking new member applications for a two-year term beginning February 1, 2021. The committee advises the County Board on County government’s exposure to financial, operational, and reputational risks. Membership includes two Board members; three residents, including a representative from the Fiscal Affairs Advisory Committee; the County Manager, and the Director of the Department of Management and Finance. Those with experience in one or more of the following areas are encouraged to apply:
Applications are accepted through January 8, 2021. To learn more about the committee, visit the Audit Committee webpage and read the Audit Committee Charter. For further questions, please contact County Auditor Chris Horton at cnhorton@arlingtonva.us. County and School Newsletters You Might Like to Join: Many of these web sites allow you to sign up for their newsletters. It is helpful to have the information come directly to you rather than trying to find the information when you need it.
ARLINGTON COUNTY LINKS: Arlington County Government: https://www.arlingtonva.us/ At the bottom of the site is a place to sign up for various newsletters. Also, Receive important County updates on activities, projects and more, by subscribing to any number of our additional e-newsletters Arlington Alert: https://www.arlingtonva.us/alerts/ Arlington County News: https://newsroom.arlingtonva.us/all-county-news/ InsideArlington: https://newsroom.arlingtonva.us/inside-arlington-newsletter/ Arlington County Park and Recreation: https://parks.arlingtonva.us/ Arlington County Nature and History Programs and Events: https://parks.arlingtonva.us/nature-history/ Arlington County Recycling: https://recycling.arlingtonva.us/ This includes Leaf Collection and How to Dispose of Various Articles like light bulbs. Arlington Library: https://library.arlingtonva.us/ Lee Highway Alliance: https://www.leehighwayalliance.com/ Civic Federation: http://www.civfed.org/ ArlNow: http://ARLnow.com Newsletter comes each day with highlights of Arlington news. NextDoor: http://nextdoor.com Social media site for neighbors. Sign up for the Rock Spring area notifications for what’s going on.
ARLINGTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS School Messenger: Sign Up Form, https://asp.schoolmessenger.com/apsva/subscriber/ APS Homepage: https://www.apsva.us/ Links to all APS schools and programs, auto-translate options for 15 additional languages, an emergency alert link, and an APS search button. A “Quick Links” side panel which includes a link to the APS COVID-19 Dashboard, an “In crisis, need help now” button, technical support, APS data, school calendars, and more. The homepage also includes a section for “What’s Happening in APS” which covers current news, initiatives and other information for parents and community members, as well as a link to all current APS news. The bottom of the homepage includes dates and links to current APS events. Engage With APS: https://www.apsva.us/engage/ Includes links to: Current APS initiatives, Return to School, Online Feedback, Community Meetings/Events, Past APS Initiatives, APS School Ambassadors, School Board Meetings, Join An Advisory Committee, and Volunteer/Partner With APS. School Year 2020-21: https://www.apsva.us/school-year-2020-21/ Includes information and links related to this school year’s teaching models (virtual, hybrid and in-person. Links also provided to special services, meal services, technical support, instructional models, Parent Academy (videos for parents to help and understand school programs/services/technology), and school year 2021. FAQs School Board 2020-21: https://www.apsva.us/about-the-school-board/ Includes information on the School Board, their meeting schedule, how to contact Board members, key documents, the Board calendar, a link to policies, past meetings, planning documents and more. https://www.apsva.us/school- board-meetings/ includes information on viewing, attending, speaking at Board meetings, meeting agendas and more. School Board Advisory Councils and Committees: https://www.apsva.us/school-board-advisory-councils- and-committees/ Include Advisory Committee on Transportation Choices, Advisory Council on Teaching & Learning, Advisory Council on School Facilities and Capital Programs, Arlington Aquatics Committee, County Council of PTAs, Budget Advisory Council, Joint Facilities Advisory Commission, School Health Advisory Board, School Plan Advisory Committees and Student Advisory Board. APS Departments: https://www.apsva.us/departments A complete list of all APS departments, with links to each of the departments and departmental staff. APS Welcome Center: https://www.apsva.us/welcome-center/ Includes the Language Services Registration Center, Options and Transfers, Early Childhood/pre-k, and Extended Day, with information and links to each. About Us: https://www.apsva.us/publications/ Includes the APS School Handbook, Registration Guidebook for Parents, annual reports, APS “Quick Facts,” and APS Friday Five which is sent to those who sign up for APS School Talk. Sign up for School Talk at https://www.apsva.us/schooltalk/ APS School and Community Relations: https://www.apsva.us/school-community-relations/ Is responsible for responsible for media relations, community engagement, public information, electronic, broadcast and social media, the Volunteer and Partners in Education Program, AETV AETV: https://www.apsva.us/aetv/APS Podcasts (What’s Up APS): https://www.apsva.us/school-community-relations/aps-podcast/ APS Teaching and Learning: https://www.apsva.us/instruction/ Includes Career, Technical, and Adult Education, Curriculum and Instruction, Early Childhood (Pre-K), Special Education, Student Services, Summer School, Welcome Center: School Options and Transfers, and the Language Services Registration Center. Additional ways to stay connected and informed with APS and individual APS schools and programs: For an alphabetical list of APS Programs and Services, with links, seehttps://www.apsva.us/programs-services/ The APS Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ArlingtonPublicSchools/ APS Tweets: https://twitter.com/intent/user?screen_name=APSVirginia APS on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apsvirginia/ See your neighborhood school websites and sign up for their school and PTA newsletters and school newspaper. (Example, Yorktown HS, https://www.yhspta.org/ School Messenger: Sign Up Form, https://asp.schoolmessenger.com/apsva/subscriber/ |
November 2020 Newsletter
This newsletter is compiled by the Rock Spring Civic Association for residents of the Rock Spring neighborhood. From RSCA Board: Wishing you and yours a happy and healthy Thanksgiving.Note from RSCA Board: We are looking for some help with the preparation of this monthly newsletter. If you would be interested in assisting, please email ctrabandt@comcast.net1. COVID-19: If you need information about guidelines for visitors to Arlington for the holidays, please see: https://www.arlingtonva.us/covid-19/2. Arlington County Items |
3. Arlington Public Schools
Confused about the description of synchronous and asynchronous instruction? https://www.apsva.us/school-year-2020-21/synchronous-vs-asynchronous-instruction/
Have questions about the current school and winter sports situation? Here is the November 10 Update from the Superintendent: https://www.apsva.us/post/superintendents-nov-10-return-to-school-update/
Tu. Nov. 17 School Board Meeting: Superintendent presents School Year 2020-21 Update. Information on School Year 2020-21 Calendar proposal and on Barcroft Elementary Calendar Alignment proposal.
7:00 p.m. Watch School Board meetings live online or on Comcast Channel 70 or Verizon Channel 41.
Tu. Dec. 1 School Board Work Session on Special Education
5:15 p.m. Watch Work Sessions live online or on Comcast Channel 70 or Verizon Channel 41.
Tu. Dec. 1 Public Hearing on Elementary School Boundaries
7:30 p.m. Watch School Board meetings live online or on Comcast Channel 70 or Verizon Channel 41.
Th. Dec. 3 School Board Meeting: Superintendent presents School Year 2020-21 Update. Action on Elementary School Boundaries. Action on School Year 2020-21 Calendar and on Barcroft Elementary Calendar Alignment.
7:00 p.m. Watch School Board meetings live online or on Comcast Channel 70 or Verizon Channel 41.
4. Arlington Parks: Need to get out and get some fresh air? See information on Arlington parks and their amenities/facilities: https://parks.arlingtonva.us/find-a-park/
Programs in the Park and Virtual Programs: Parks and Rec has many programs this fall. See the full schedule of programs in Arlington parks (exercise, art, bicycling, etc. for children, teens and adults at https://parks.arlingtonva.us/programs-in-the-park/.
Outdoor Skate: Saturdays Oct. 24 through Nov. 21. Family skate is 2-3 p.m. or 3:15-4:15 p.m. and tweens/teens-only skate is 4:30-5:30 p.m. at the Quincy parking deck. https://parks.arlingtonva.us/2020/10/outdoor-skate/
5. Meadowlark's Winter Walk of Lights: Winter Walk of Lights will open for the season on Wednesday Nov. 11 and run through Sunday, Jan. 3, 2021. The gardens will be illuminated for visitors to follow a one-way half-mile route. Hours are 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. from Nov. 11 to Dec. 11 and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. from Dec. 12 to Jan. 3. The last admission time is 9:15 p.m.
For more information and tickets, visit www.novaparks.com/events/winter-walk-of-lights.
Contact the newsletter editors for information or items to share, please email either Judy Hadden or Joan Trabandt
October 2020 Newsletter
For information about Drop Boxes, please see: https://vote.arlingtonva.us/ballot-drop-off/ To vote By Mail, please see: https://vote.arlingtonva.us/vote-by-mail/ 2. Lee Highway Alliance: The Working Group On Renaming Lee Highway met (via Zoom) for the second time on Wednesday, September 30. The Group voted on a set of rules and criteria to be used to narrow the list of suggested names and decided upon a process for selecting their top choice and 2-4 alternatives for Lee Highway's new name. There
are currently 159 name
suggestions! To see the list of suggested names in full click here. It will be updated every Friday. The next Working
Group meeting in October will focus on narrowing the long list of names
down to 20. Protect yourself and others against contact tracing scams. If you are suspicious of any call or form of contact that you believe isn't from Arlington County Government, write down the caller’s information, hang up, and call the County's COVID-19 hotline at 703-228-7999. 4. County Information: Arlington Community Resources: Arlington County offers food, financial and medical assistance resources. For food, call 703-228-1300. SCAN of Northern Virginia shares Covid-19 resources for families.
Read about the Phased Return Plan: https://www.apsva.us/school-year-2020-21/transition-to-hybrid-in-person-model/ Meetings of Interest:
Tu. Oct. 27 School Board Work Session on Instructional Program Pathways (IPP) 6:00 p.m. Watch School Board Work Sessions live online or on Comcast Channel 70 or Verizon Channel 41. Th. Oct. 29 School Board Work Session on Elementary School Boundary Process 6:30 p.m. Watch School Board Work Sessions live online or on Comcast Channel 70 or Verizon Channel 41.
Th. Nov. 5 School Board Meeting: Superintendent presents School Year 2020-21 Update. Staff presents Elementary School Boundary proposal. 7:00 p.m. Watch School Board meetings live online or on Comcast Channel 70 or Verizon Channel 41.
Fri. Nov. 6 Facebook Live videos on Elementary School Boundary Process (English and Spanish)
Tu. Nov. 10 School Board Work Session on Budget Status Update / Capital Improvement Plan Framework 6:30 p.m. Watch School Board Work Sessions live online or on Comcast Channel 70 or Verizon Channel 41. Th. Nov. 17 School Board
Meeting : Superintendent presents School
Year 2020-21 Update. Information on 2022 School Year Calendar.
7. Halloween Guidelines: While Halloween typically represents a time of fun and excitement for children and adults alike, the current Halloween season will be different than prior years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Virginia Department of Health has put together interim guidelines for participating in Halloween events. Read all about it here.
Get in the Halloween spirit with the Library's Pumpkin Decorating Contest
8. Parks and Recreation: For a full listing of offerings, please see: https://parks.arlingtonva.us/ Free Redbud Trees! Thanks to Dominion Energy’s Project Plant It!, EcoAction Arlington is pleased to offer free redbud seedlings. The seedlings will be available between October 24 and October 31 while supplies last. Each seedling will be about 12″ long and will be bare root and wrapped in plastic. To get one of these free trees, you need to fill out an online reservation form and pick up your tree at the designated site. Trees are available at five events at the dates and times detailed below. There are two pick-ups being held in conjunction with the Arlington County Tree Distribution Program coordinated by Arlington County Department of Parks and Recreation:
Reservations for the above two sites must be made online through this link. At these two events, you can only get a redbud as part of a tree whip reservation.
Redbud seedlings are also available at the following events. We ask you to limit yourself to one redbud per household.
Please reserve your redbud seedling for the three farmers markets through this link . This distribution is first come, first served. Questions? Please contact us at volunteer@ecoactionarlington.org Foundational Planting: Wednesday, November 11, 12:00-1:00pm
Invasive Plant and Native Alternatives: Friday, November 13, 10:00 – 11:30 am, ONLINE. Invasive plants in the home garden like English Ivy, Bamboo, Porcelainberry, and Mimosa, can spread from cultivation to our natural areas where they out-compete beneficial native plants. Learn how to rid your yard of some common invasive plants and substitute alternative native species that have similar ornamental qualities and which also support our local wildlife. Extension Master Gardener Elaine Mills, a creative force behind the resource Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic, serves as a co-coordinator at the Glencarlyn Library Community Garden, a Virginia Cooperative Extension Demonstration Garden in Arlington, Virginia. Free. RSVP at https://mgnv.org/events/ to receive link to participate.
Contact the newsletter editors for information or items to share, please email either Judy Hadden or Joan Trabandt |
September 2020 Newsletter
This newsletter is compiled by the Rock Spring Civic Association for residents of the Rock Spring neighborhood. 1. Arlington County News:Arlington County Board Approves Satellite Offices for Early Voting:The Arlington County Board approved five satellite offices for early voting in the November 3, 2020, presidential election, in anticipation of unprecedented demand for early voting during the COVID-19 pandemic. All registered voters are eligible to vote early in the November 3 election. The satellite locations approved by the Board include:
Early voting will begin on September 18 at 2200 Clarendon Blvd, Suite R140. The remaining locations will open later in October. Hours of operation for the satellite locations will be posted on the County website by the first week in September. (Madison Center: October 17 – October 31: M-F 2-7pm; Sat Oct 17, 24, 31 9am-5pm) Visit the County website for more information on voting. If you have requested a mail ballot, you may also check the status of your mail ballot application on the Virginia Department of Elections website. Ballots will be mailed starting September 18. Additionally, a recent USPS flyer recommends you mail your ballot at least 7 days before Election Day. Police Practices Work Group: The Police Practices Work Group (PPG) focuses on the associated processes for reviewing ACPD policies, exploring promising practices, and developing a set of recommendations. https://departments.arlingtonva.us/cmo/police-practices-work-group/
Arlington Bans Firearms in County Government Buildings, Parks, at Special Events: The Arlington County Board voted unanimously to adopt a Firearms Ordinance banning guns in County government buildings and parks, and at designated special events that require a County permit. The restrictions will apply where the County has posted notice at entrances to buildings, parks, recreation and community centers, and at entrances to events. For more detailed information: https://newsroom.arlingtonva.us/release/arlington-bans-firearms-in-county-government-buildings-parks-at-special-events/ Neighborhoods Form Based Code AMI Change: Tuesday, Sept. 15, 12 - 1 p.m. Learn about: The proposed amendment to increase the Area Median Income (AMI) level of Neighborhoods Form Based Code (N-FBC) required affordable ownership units: Adjustments to the affordability term of required affordable ownership units: Timing of the proposed amendments: Q&A with County staff. Questions: email Akeria Brown at asbrown@arlingtonva.us. The event will be broadcast online using Microsoft Teams. Attendees may participate using a web browser (such as Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Safari) or via the Microsoft Teams free app. The County will be issuing a $10.77 credit to the Household Solid Waste Rate, which is assessed on the customer’s quarterly water/sewer/refuse utility bills. The County’s temporary yard waste drop-off locations at the Trades Center and mulch pick-up site at North 26th Street and Yorktown Boulevard are now closed.
Arlington Civic Federation: At the September meeting, a candidates’ forum was held. Two resolutions were introduced as well:
Video footage of the 8 Sept 2020 meeting is available here. For more information: civfed.org 2. Arlington Public Schools School Board Meeting: Thursday, September 24, 7 pm The Superintendent presents Return-to-School Status Update. The Board will adopt their School Board 2020-21 Action Plan. Watch School Board meetings live online or on Comcast Channel 70 or Verizon Channel 41.
3. Parks and Recreation: For the Artists: Get your canvas ready for this 55+ Paint n' Sip Demo on Thurs., Sept. 24 from 10-11:30 a.m. Register here #911301-03. Other 55+Programs: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/VAARLINGTON/bulletins/29f6d62
Contact the newsletter editors for information or items to share, please email either Judy Hadden or Joan Trabandt |
August 2020 Newsletter
This newsletter is compiled by the Rock Spring Civic Association for residents of the Rock Spring neighborhood. Register for ArlingtonAlert. Stay informed about major events--hazardous weather, COVID-19 response, traffic disruptions and more. Free on up to 10 devices. 1. Arlington County: The pre-filled mail ballot applications many voters received from an independent organization this week can be used. While other Virginia localities are reporting errors on their forms, the ones provided to Arlington voters appear correct. Completed forms will be sent to the Arlington County Office of Voter Registration & Elections for processing. RELATED: Request a Vote by Mail Ballot by Oct. 23 2. Curbside Bulk Collection: Regular curbside bulk collection has resumed. For residential customers who may be left with storm-related debris, properly prepare it for pickup on your designated trash collection day. 3. Missing Middle Study: The fourth installment of Arlington's five-part series, the Missing Middle Housing Study Research Compendium, was just released. It deals with zoning and land-use policies. Each research bulletin can be viewed as a standalone document, or as a chapter in a larger body of knowledge. Bulletins will be published from June through August 2020. The goal is to provide the community with information to explore prior to the Missing Middle Housing Study kick-off.
4. Reduce Your Risk of Flooding: Flooding can be a very costly disaster. The risk for flooding can vary within the same neighborhood and even property to property. Flooding can occur not only in identified high-risk areas, but may also occur in areas that may not have been identified as high risk. More than 20% of flood claims are from low to moderate flood risk areas. Here are steps that you can take as a property owner to reduce your risk of flooding: https://environment.arlingtonva.us/flood-insurance-rate-maps/reducing-your-risk-of-flooding/
Arlington Schools: 6:00 p.m. Watch School Board meetings live online or on Comcast Channel 70 or Verizon Channel 41.
Th. Aug. 27 School Board Planning Work Session 6:00 p.m. Watch School Board Work Sessions live online or on Comcast Channel 70 or Verizon Channel 41. Arlington Parks and Recreation: Fall Class Catalog Check out the fall catalog, ENJOY Arlington, here! Online registration begins Wed., Aug. 12 @ 8 a.m. Looking For Things To Do: Arlington County Fair AT HOME: Virtual Fair Aug. 14-16! You don’t have to miss the Fair this summer! Enjoy the fun starting Fri., August 14 at noon through Sunday, August 16 at 6 p.m. See https://www.facebook.com/arlingtoncofair for information, schedule of events, and more - no need to have a Facebook account. Details also posted at https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/VAARLINGTON/bulletins/2998d45. Don’t miss the music, pie-eating contest, animals, and other Arlington County Fair favorites! Arlington Victory Gardens: If you didn’t get a chance to plant your own victory garden this summer, the Arlington Friends of Urban Agriculture is looking for some volunteers to help with school gardens. See https://sites.google.com/site/arlingtonurbanag/school-victory-gardens for more information. Donate School Supplies: For as little as $10, you can help support Arlington children in need of school supplies
Contact the newsletter editors for information or items to share, please email either Judy Hadden or Joan Trabandt |
July 2020 Newsletter
This newsletter is compiled by the Rock Spring Civic Association for residents of the Rock Spring neighborhood. 1. The Arlington County Board will hold its July Regular Meeting on Saturday, July 18, 2020, a Recessed Meeting on Tuesday, July 21, and a Carryover Meeting on Wednesday, July 22. All three meetings will be virtual. The agenda can be found at https://arlington.granicus.com/ViewPublisher.php?view_id=2 During the COVID-19 pandemic, the County Board is holding virtual meetings, as allowed under Virginia law. Board members, staff, applicants, and the public all will participate remotely. Members of the public who wish to speak at public comment at the start of the Saturday, July 18, Regular Meeting, or who wish to speak on an agenda item, should visit the County Board website for information on how to register online to comment virtually. County Board meetings are live-streamed on the County website, and broadcast live on Arlington TV, the County’s cable channel, with live captioning, on Comcast 25 & 1085 (HD), and Verizon FiOS 39 & 40. The meetings also are live-streamed on ATV’s YouTube channel. Videos of Board meetings are archived on the County website (with captions and staff reports) and on YouTube. 2. Arlington Announces Compliance with Virginia Community Policing Act: Takes effect July 1 2020: |
June 2020 Newsletter
This newsletter is compiled by the Rock Spring Civic Association for residents of the Rock Spring neighborhood. 1. Arlington County: Covid-19 Information: https://www.arlingtonva.us/covid-19/ Capital Improvement Plan: Joint School Board/County Board Capital Improvement Plan Work Session 5 - 6:30 p.m. Hosted by the County; can be viewed live on Arlington TV. 2. Arlington County Public Schools: Save the Date: Virtual Town Halls with the New Superintendent, Tuesday, June 23 from 7 - 8 pm. See below. Tu. June 16 School Board Work Session #4 on FY 2021 Capital Improvement Plan 5:30 p.m. Watch School Board meetings live online or on Comcast Channel 70 or Verizon Channel 41.
Tu. June 23 Virtual Community Town Hall with Superintendent, Dr. Francisco Durán. Simultaneous interpretation available in Amharic, Arabic, Mongolian, Spanish & American Sign Language (ASL) 7:00 p.m. LiveStream link here - Email questions in advance to engage@apsva.us. Th. June 25 Last School Board Meeting of the school year. School Board action on FY 2021 Capital Improvement Plan 7:00 p.m. Watch School Board meetings live online or on Comcast Channel 70 or Verizon Channel 41. From: Williamsburg Middle School PTA and Jamestown Elementary School PTA: Please Help Feed our Community: Randolph Elementary School PTA (in South Arlington) Continues to Host Food Pantries For Needy Families Throughout Summer: Please shop from the list below and drop off donations at 4857 N 35th Rd, Arlington by Thursdays at noon.
Donate Giant Food Grocery Cards – $25 and $50 grocery cards from Giant Food will also be collected at the address above. The PTA cannot purchase gift cards with PTA funds, only donated gift cards can be given to our families. Make a Tax Deductible Donation to the PTA – Please donate via Paypal by clicking the button on the Randolph PTA web site or by sending a check to Randolph PTA, c/o Meredith Krug, 1719 South Pollard Street, Arlington, VA 22204. 3. Parks and Recreation Guidelines: Effective Fri., June 12, Arlington County reopens dog parks, basketball courts and volleyball courts for people who practice social distancing and follow the appropriate usage. Here is a list of open park amenities and their usage guidelines: https://parks.arlingtonva.us/reopening-safety-guidelines-and-rules/ Click on the downward facing arrow to open the specifics. 4. Arlington Library: Starting June 15, Arlington Public Library will accept book returns at all branches and offer a materials pickup service at Central Library to patrons who have a hold which is currently ready. And then starting on June 18, new holds may be placed online in the Library catalog and app. More info. Contact the newsletter editors for information or items to share, please email either Judy Hadden or Joan Trabandt
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May 2020 Newsletter
This newsletter is compiled by the Rock Spring Civic Association for residents of the Rock Spring neighborhood.
We sincerely hope you stay healthy and can laugh a little each day. 2. Trash and Recycling Services Available to Residential Customers: Drop-Off: Arlington County has added a temporary yard waste drop-off location at the 26th Street North and Yorktown Boulevard mulch pickup site. Residents are able to drop-off yard waste Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Please bring a driver’s license to show proof of residence. Residents are expected to practice social distancing when showing identification and dropping off material. Yard waste can be unbundled or placed in biodegradable paper bags. Plastic bags will not be accepted. If you are unable to drop-off yard waste, keeping it in the green cart until collection resumes is strongly encouraged. Grasscycling – by leaving cuttings on the ground – is a great (and free) way to fertilize the lawn. Schedule a brush pickup online for large-sized yard trimmings like limbs, or call 703-228-5000 Mon.-Fri., 7a.m. to 7 pm. On a trial basis, the County will allow landscapers to drop off materials from Arlington County residents. Free bags (15-bag limit per visit) will be available starting Wednesday at 2100 N. Clarendon Blvd. and at 4300 South 29th. St. from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 3. Other available solid waste services for residential customers include:
4. Arlington Specific Covid Information: If you’d like more data information concerning Arlington, go to: https://www.arlnow.com/2020/05/12/six-additional-coronavirus-deaths-in-arlington-reported-overnight/?mc_cid=20e5f5a78d&mc_eid=262b373539 5. New APS Superintendent: The Arlington School Board named Dr. Francisco Durán as the new Superintendent of Arlington Public Schools (APS). He will formally assume the role of Superintendent on June 1, 2020. For more information about Dr. Duran, see: https://www.apsva.us/post/arlington-school-board-names-new-superintendent-following-nationwide-search/ 6. Arlington Parks and Rec: Recreate At Home: Arlington County Parks and Rec has compiled a list of things to do while at home including recipes, kids’ activities, and fitness ideas. Please see: https://parks.arlingtonva.us/2020/03/recreate-at-home/ to sign up for their frequent emails. 7. Art Anyone? (Safely) visit Arlington's public art with one of these self-guided walking tours 8. Grow Food for You and Your Arlington Neighbors: Plot Against Hunger See http://home.arlingtonurbanag.org/foua-victory-gardens-project/PLOT-grow-food-for-neighbors for all the information and details you need. Start your Arlington Plot Against Hunger victory garden today! These organizations are accepting food: https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=sites&srcid=ZGVmYXVsdGRvbWFpbnxhcmxpbmd0b251cmJhbmFnfGd4Ojc2ZTRhM2JhMGI0MjM3NTk Be sure to call first to double check if they will accept what you have grown. Would you like to do a neighborhood food drive for the Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC)? AFAC is desperately in need of canned food for the bags they are assembling for neighbors in need. They especially need canned foods, such as vegetables, soups, tuna, chicken, canned tomatoes, peanut butter in plastic jars, and boxes of cereal. All the information you need to plan your food drive, including a flyer template and ideas for your neighborhood food drive are on the AFAC site at https://afac.org/food-drive/. See https://afac.org/food-donation-drop-offs-march-2020/ for a list of non-perishable food drop off hours and locations throughout the county, including Madison Community Center ( 3829 N Stafford St). Make this a family or neighborhood project! Would you prefer to do a virtual food drive for AFAC? For all the information you need to help AFAC without doing a food collection, see https://afac.org/donatepage/virtual-food-drive/. See how you and your neighbors can help provide milk, produce, canned food, eggs and more – or provide a family with a full week of groceries for $35. Contact the newsletter editors for information or items to share, please email either Judy Hadden or Joan Trabandt |
April 2020 Newsletter
This newsletter is compiled by the Rock Spring Civic Association for residents of the Rock Spring neighborhood. 1. Stay Safe: Face Masks Policy and No-Sew Face Mask Video: Please see the County’s web site on the importance of wearing face masks when out in public. And, watch County Board Chair, Libby Garvey, demonstrate a no-sew bandana face mask that all of us can make and use. No bandana, try a scarf or cutting up a t-shirt. https://newsroom.arlingtonva.us/release/covid19-cloth-face-coverings-how-to/
3. County Board
to Pilot Virtual “Open Door Mondays” During COVID-19: Arlington County Board Chair Libby Garvey announced that the Board will pilot a virtual format for Open Door Mondays, the informal weekly sessions where individuals or small groups can meet one-on-one with a Board Member to raise any issue, starting Monday, April 13, 2020. “Participation is easy — just fill out a very brief RSVP on the County website, then join us virtually, or by phoning in, at 7 p.m. starting Monday, April 13 We look forward to hearing from you.” https://countyboard.arlingtonva.us/open-door-mondays/ 4. Arlington County Board Member Erik Gutshall ResignsArlington County Board Vice-Chair Erik Gutshallannounced that he is resigning from the Board, after undergoing treatment for brain cancer for the past month. Gutshall said he will be quarantining with his family at their home. Gutshall was elected to the County Board in 2017, after Chairing the Planning Commission. He represents Arlington on several regional bodies. The County Board will consult with the County Attorney about the next steps, as required under Virginia law, for holding a special election to replace Gutshall on the County Board. 5. Library at a Distance: Are you new to the eCollection? Questions about downloading library eBooks and eAudiobooks, or using your eReader? You can get live help (Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.-2 p.m.) from Library staff through Chat or Text (703-783-3898)! 6. Arlington Reads: One Community, One Book: The program brings together people to talk about books and the important topics of our time,” said Library Director Diane Kresh. The library invites you to read and discuss Alexis Coe’s “You Never Forget Your First: A Biography of George Washington," and learn how our Founding Fathers and Mothers confronted uncertain times and harrowing situations. Join an online watch party for Alexis Coe and Diane Kresh's conversation on Sunday, May 3, at 7 p.m. https://library.arlingtonva.us/arlington-reads-one-community-one-book/ 7. Supporting Local Businesses: Want to support local businesses and their employees? Consider purchasing a gift card. 8. Thinking about doing some gardening? Wondering how to grow some vegetables or flowers? This could be a great project for kids, adults, neighborhoods, and there’s lots of good information available on gardening in Arlington. Whether you want to grow flowers for bouquets or attract butterflies and hummingbirds, or tomatoes and a few other vegetables for a fun and helpful family project, good information for beginning and experienced gardeners is available. Here are a few good resources:
9. Check out Parks & Recreation’s “Recreate at Home,” https://parks.arlingtonva.us/2020/03/recreate-at-home/ 10. “Parent Support In Challenging Times,” Arlington Partnership for Children, Youth & Families, https://apcyf.arlingtonva.us/parent-support/ 11. Current Arlington County Government and Schools information and updates:
Contact the newsletter editors for information or items to share, please email either Judy Hadden or Joan Trabandt |
March 2020 Newsletter
This newsletter is compiled by the Rock Spring Civic Association for residents of the Rock Spring neighborhood. As you all know, we are under a Coronavirus alert and many activities and meetings have been cancelled for the next few weeks. Please check with your sources concerning cancellations of any activities you normally participate in or meetings you are planning to attend. Schools are closed until April 14, meaning sports activities are also cancelled. All DPR activities and programs are canceled until April 20. https://topics.arlingtonva.us/covid-19-related-cancellations/ For Arlington Public Schools Coronavirus/Covid-19 information regarding resources and APS updates for families, students, staff, and community members, seehttps://www.apsva.us/coronavirus-covid-19-updates/. Arlington Public Library update, including online resources available: Central Library and the Columbia Pike branch will open Monday, March 16th for Wi-Fi and public PC use, but all other locations will remain closed. For information on accessing library resources online, see https://library.arlingtonva.us/2020/03/12/how-to-use-your-library-card-even-if-you-cant-go-to-the-library. We know you have been informed multiple times about precautions you should take to keep you and your family healthy as well as what to do if you think you might have the virus. Here is the Arlington County link: https://health.arlingtonva.us/covid-19-coronavirus-updates/ A few things we can report: 1. Arlington Summer Camps: Arlington County is looking for creative, enthusiastic, committed and sincere people to staff summer camps June 22 - August 28. These temporary positions are perfect for teachers, college students and anyone who wants experience working with the best kids in the nation … Arlington kids! You can also support special interests in the arts, nature, sports or working with people with disabilities. Interested? Get all the details on our summer employment opportunities here. Before the study kicks off, you’re invited to provide feedback on the study's scope. A brief, five-minute survey is posted to collect your input. We’re asking questions such as, how would you like to be engaged or kept informed throughout the process? Do each of the phases allow for adequate community input? We’re not tossing around housing ideas just yet. There are no proposals on the table. First, we want to make sure we’re set up for a productive, efficient process that will facilitate the community dialogue we need. Help us get it right: https://housing.arlingtonva.us/missingmiddle/scope/ 3. 2020 Census. The invitations are going out to 95% of U.S. households, including all 108,000 households in Arlington.
Upon receiving the invitation, go to my2020census.gov to access your 2020 Census questionnaire. The Census Bureau also provides translated web pages and guides in 59 languages that can be accessed from a drop–down menu on the upper right corner of 2020census.gov People in most areas of the country, including Arlington, are expected to complete the census questionnaire online, so the invitation will direct you to respond at my2020census.gov as well as provide a toll-free number for phone assistance. 4. Neighborhood College Applications: Learn how to become a neighborhood advocate and effect change through Arlington County’s free Neighborhood College program, which will meet on eight consecutive Thursday evenings beginning April 23. The program, which launched in 2000, develops civic engagement and leadership skills. It is geared toward Arlingtonians who want to become more involved in neighborhood and countywide issues. Participants will learn about many aspects of Arlington County government and practice core communication and influencing skills. Apply to Neighborhood College Space is limited. Deadline is March 29. Applications are available in English and Spanish.
Contact the newsletter editors for information or items to share, please email either Judy Hadden or Joan Trabandt |