The Board receives reports from on-site management, various committees, listens to the concerns of residents and conducts the business of the Association.

Actions:

• The Board unanimously approved the September 2 meeting minutes as submitted.
• The Board unanimously accepted the change order presented by Doug White in the amount of $45K for the South Building Exterior Maintenance Project; this amount will be expended from the replacement reserves.
• The Board voted 6:1 [with Vice President Mellen abstaining] to deny a smoking waiver to a South Building resident who missed the deadline to submit the smoking addendum.
• The Board unanimously approved the request by Café Gallery to extend the rent abatement waiver by six months.

Updates:

• President Binker appointed the following standing committees and their members: Activities (Patricia Mellen, liaison), Budget & Finance (Ron Goldfuss, liaison), Covenants (Jerry Binker, liaison), Replacement Reserves (Jerry Binker, liaison), and Staff Holiday Fund (Bob Lentini, liaison). Although the Landscape Committee is presently “inactive” (due to COVID-19), President Binker appointed Liz Birnbaum as liaison to that committee. He also elaborated on noisy construction projects and stated that the VA Condo Act does not preclude residents from renovating their units as desired. Regarding exterior projects, he noted that the Board has a fiduciary duty to maintain the integrity of the buildings, and – based on the report by our engineering firm – it was necessary to perform the South Building exterior maintenance at this time.
• Vice President Mellen announced that the Activities Committee is hosting a concert on the recreation deck on Sunday near the shuffleboard area (seating will be provided but residents may also bring their own chairs). She also provided an update on a beer giveaway for residents, and Halloween trick-or-treat bags (for resident & staff children/grandchildren); more information will be provided in the coming days. Finally, she asked management to inform residents of locations for early voting (via easels and bulletin boards), and to remind residents that the general polling place is no longer at Lee Center – it is at Alexandria Renew on Limerick Street.
• Treasurer Goldfuss reported that the Association is operating better than budget by $41K.
• Secretary Audrain reported that she, Vice President Mellen, and management are researching online voting vendors.
• Energy Chair Bob Tap provided a utility update on Alexandria Renew.
• Director Lentini thanked management for installing wipe dispensers on all garage levels.
• Management reported that there will be a water shut down for the East Building on Tuesday, October 13 (from 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM) due to the replacement of the main water meter.
• There are currently 81 units that are leased by unit owners resulting in a current rental ratio of 14%. There are also 17 units that are vacant.
• 257 residents participated in the SmarTrip Program for the month of September.

CHECKING REGISTRATION

If you have moved since the last time you voted, please make sure you are registered at your current address. You may check your registration at vote.elections.virginia.gov, by email at voters@alexandriava.gov, or by calling 703.746.4050. Voters who do not update their registration records before the deadline are at risk of being ineligible to vote in this election.

NEW REGISTRATIONS AND ADDRESS UPDATES

The following voter registration methods are available to U.S. citizens living in Virginia who will be 18 or older by November 3, 2020:

• Submit the application online at vote.elections.virginia.gov before midnight on the evening of October 13.
• Register in person at the Office of Voter Registration and Elections (132 N. Royal St., Suite 100) by 5 p.m. on October 13.
• Download an application at alexandriava.gov/Elections. Print, sign, and mail the completed form to the Office of Voter Registration and Elections, 132 N. Royal St., Suite 100, Alexandria, VA 22314. Applications must be postmarked on or before October 13.

Voter information letters for new or transferred registrants will be mailed within one week of the registration date.

ABSENTEE VOTING AND OTHER ELECTION INFORMATION

As of July 1, all registered voters in Virginia are eligible to vote absentee. Registered voters may vote absentee by mail or in person.

In-person absentee voting for this election continues until 5 p.m. on Saturday, October 31. To reduce wait times at voting locations, voters are encouraged to become familiar with ballot questions and voting procedures in advance. For a full list of voting locations and hours, visit alexandriava.gov/Elections.

DROP BOXES

Drop boxes are available during in-person voting hours, with the exception of the drop box in front of the Voter Registration Office (132 N. Royal St.), which is available and under video surveillance 24 hours a day through November 3 at 7 p.m. For a full list of voting locations and hours, visit alexandriava.gov/Elections.

The deadline to apply for an absentee ballot by mail is Friday, October 23. Applications must be received in the Voter Registration Office by 5 p.m. that day. 

An absentee ballot may be returned by mail (postmarked by November 3); at an in-person voting site during its hours of operation; at the 24-hour drop box outside the Voter Registration Office by 7 p.m. on November 3; or at any polling place between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. on November 3.

Visit alexandriava.gov/Elections to learn more about deadlines and other election information, including sample ballots, by mail ballot applications, in-person absentee voting hours, precinct maps and ID requirements.

For more information contact the Office of Voter Registration & Elections at voters@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.4050, Virginia Relay 711.

The ordinance, which was adopted by City Council on September 12, expands on a state executive order that has required masks in most indoor public settings since May 29. Wearing masks has been proven to limit the spread of COVID-19.

Find information about mask requirements, the state executive order, and helpful tips and videos about how to wear masks correctly. The City has also produced numerous signs, flyers, and videos that explain when, where, and how to use masks while COVID-19 remains present in the community.

These materials are available for download and print, or reproduction can be requested. 

Via the listing

A great office space for Lawyer, CPA, Travel agent or other professional.​ Located within walking distance to King St.​ Metro and short drive to Reagan National airport.​ Rent is all inclusive along with the parking space.​ 3-10 years lease.​

Locations & Hours of operation:

SOCIAL DISTANCING During phase three, the Library will maintain a 25% occupancy rate, which includes staff. The amount of people allowed inside a branch at any one time is listed below:

• Beatley Central – 120
• Barrett Branch – 50
• Burke Branch – 21
• Duncan Branch – 34
• Law Library – 7
• Local History/Special Collections Branch – 5

Please maintain a six foot distance from others at all times while in the library. All of our branches have been retrofitted with partitions and have physical distancing signage. Furniture has been removed or reconfigured to ensure proper physical distancing.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU ARRIVE

Upon entering the library you will meet a library greeter who will take your temperature and issue a mask, if you forgot to bring one. All customers over the age of 10 are required to wear a face covering while at the library. Failure to comply will result in denied entry.

Customers with temperatures above 100 degrees will also be denied entry and offered curbside and/or virtual services. Customers are allowed to remain in the building up to two hours and may have two hours of time on computers. Customers are asked to stay out of the library for 30 minutes before re-entering, provided the occupancy level has not been met.

CURBSIDE SERVICE REMAINS IN EFFECT

Curbside Service is still available for those who do not wish to come into the library. Curbside services will be offered on days which libraries are open, with curbside-only service every Friday.

COMPUTERS AND PRINTING

Access to computers is available with a 2 hour time limit. Copying and printing releases will be handled by staff only. Up to the first 30 pages will be free at all locations, with exceptions at Local History/Special Collections and the Law Library.

MEETING ROOMS AND PROGRAMS Meeting rooms are still not available for use. Library programs will continue online while in phase three. Please see our virtual event calendar at alexlibraryva.org/virtual and join us online.

NO DONATIONS ACCEPTED

Material donations are not accepted at this time. Please keep them with you until we can accept them. If you leave donations at the library, they will not be used and will be thrown away.

FEES AND FINES

Payment of fines and fees will be via debit/credit cards online or at self-checkout machines. Checks or money orders may be mailed to the library. No cash handling will take place inside the library or at curbside.

For more information about the Library’s phase three of the reopening plan, please visit alexlibraryva.org/reopen.

Via the listing

Stunning three bedroom, two and a half bath condo with direct Masonic Temple and DC views in the prestigious Carlyle Towers. Unit is on the 14th floor featuring beautiful sunsets, onsite gym, dry cleaners,pool, indoor hot tub, sauna, putting green, large party room for residents to use, and 24-hour concierge service. The unit has hardwood floors and tile throughout in addition to an updated kitchen with granite countertops and tile backsplash and stainless steel appliances. Large master suite includes two walk-in closets and sumptuous master bathroom with jetted tub and separate shower and double vanity. The enclosed balcony space is perfect for sitting with your morning coffee and adds to the condo~s overall square footage. The guest wing features two bedrooms with a full bath and Bosch laundry unit. Glass doors separate the entrance and the powder room. Plenty of closet space throughout. The unit has one dedicated parking space and a large storage locker. Other amenities include onsite tennis courts,outdoor grills, bike racks, two dog parks (dogs and cats are allowed in the building) and shuttle service toKing Street metro. Carlyle Towers is located in the quieter section of Old Town and is just a five-minute walk to the metro. It is a lovely walking community with many fine restaurants nearby. Walking distanceto Whole Foods and the AMC movie theater and soon to be home to a brand new Wegmans

See more here.

Check out other homes for sale at Carlyle Towers.

• Liz Birnbaum
• Ronald Goldfuss
• Greg Larsen

The Carlyle Towers Board  would like to thank all residents, including the candidates, for their participation in this year’s election – and a special ‘Thank You’ to our retiring board members – Jeff Cawley & Sue Bairstow for their years of service!

The mailing piece provided an application to request an absentee ballot. Unfortunately, the mailing address on the return envelope is incorrect. The Center for Voter Information is now aware of the error and is working to fix it.

Voters are encouraged to check their voter registration record online at vote.elections.virginia.gov. Voters who have submitted a request for a mail ballot in November do not need to submit another request. Ballots will be mailed to voters beginning the week of September 18, 2020. Other inquiries regarding this mailing can be directed to the Center for Voter Information.

Visit alexandriava.gov/Elections for more information about voting in Alexandria, Virginia.

To be eligible, seniors must be 60 years of age or older, an Alexandria resident, and have a debit, credit or electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card. To learn more about the program or how to apply, email groceries@seniorservicesalex.org or call 703.836.4414, ext. 119. Senior Services of Alexandria also has many other programs that support senior residents.   

Individuals have reported receiving phone calls from someone falsely using the identity of an Alexandria sworn police employee. In the scam, the caller uses the name of a sworn officer, and advises that there are warrants for the subject’s arrest. The caller provides instructions on how to pay a large sum of money, then passes the victim on to another person to explain a “surety voucher.”

The Alexandria Police Department does not make such calls and will never request money over the phone. If you receive such a call, immediately hang up. Do not provide the caller with any information and do not answer any questions.

If you are the victim of this scam and have been defrauded of money, please report it to the Alexandria Police Department by calling 703.746.4444 or by contacting the law enforcement agency where you live.

Virginia Department of Health Releases Information on Testing Data:

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) today released COVID-19 testing data broken out by diagnostic (PCR) and antibody (serology) tests. A diagnostic test uses an oral or nasal swab to determine whether the patient had the COVID-19 virus at the time the sample was collected. An antibody test uses a blood sample to tell whether the patient has had the virus at anytime in the past. In Virginia, antibody tests make up less than 9% of overall tests. When antibody tests are removed from total results, there is little change in the percentage of positives and no difference in overall trends. VDH defines a case as confirmed when there is a positive diagnostic test. A goal in monitoring the number of testing encounters, and the percentage of COVID-19 tests that are positive, is to gauge the capacity of the healthcare system to perform COVID-19 testing. In the past three weeks, the number of antibody tests being used in Virginia has increased. Due to this change, going forward, VDH will provide a breakdown of the COVID-19 test data by all test types, and by PRC tests.

Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer for Families with Children

The Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) is a temporary food benefit available in Virginia to families with children who would have received free or reduced-price meals if schools were open. The purpose of the P-EBT benefit is to supplement existing nutrition programs for low-income households during the pandemic. It does not replace meals provided through the school programs during unexpected closures, such as the summer meal programs that will begin when the school year ends. The Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) will issue benefits to eligible households with a total benefit of $376 per eligible student. Virginia households are eligible if they have students who are either eligible for free or reduced-price school meals or enrolled in a school that provides free meals to all students through the Community Eligibility Provision or another provision. Households do not have to apply for P-EBT; schools will provide information for all eligible students directly to VDSS. If you believe there are eligible students in your household, but you do not receive P-EBT by the middle of June, call 804.726.7000. For more information, read Frequently Asked Questions in English and Spanish.

Household Hazardous Waste & Electronics Drop-off Center to Open on Saturdays 

The City has reopened its Household Hazardous Waste & Electronics Drop-off Center on Saturdays only, from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The center closed last month to minimize risk to employees and the public, but will reopen on a limited basis to accommodate residents who cannot store materials at home indefinitely (such as those who are moving). Before visiting the center, please consider whether materials can be stored at home until a later date, when normal operations resume. For more information, including guidelines for visiting the center and a list of acceptable items, visit the Household Hazardous Waste & Electronics Drop-off Center web page or alexandriava.gov/ResourceRecovery. 

44 New COVID-19 Cases and 1 New Fatality Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 1,349, including 32 fatalities. Detailed data is available through the links at this site. It is critical for all community members, even those who don’t have a diagnosed illness, to stay home except for essential trips such as brief visits to the pharmacy, doctor, or grocery store.

First half real estate tax and fee payments are due Monday, June 15. Late payment penalty and interest will be assessed on all real estate taxes and fees that are not paid or postmarked by the due date. The late payment penalty is five percent of the tax if paid by June 30, 2020, and 10 percent of the tax if paid on or after July 1, 2020, or $10, whichever is greater. The late payment penalty is 10 percent of the refuse fee. Interest on tax and late payment penalty accrues at an annual rate of 10 percent for the first year and five percent for each year thereafter, beginning June 16, 2020, and continues until the entire outstanding balance is paid.  Interest accrues on unpaid refuse fees at an annual rate of 10 percent and stormwater utility fees at an annual rate of 6 percent, beginning June 16, 2020.There is no late payment penalty on stormwater utility fee.

In May 2020, all property owners will be billed for half of the Stormwater Utility Fee as a separate line item on the real estate tax bill, with the next half of the annual fee billed in October 2020. To appeal the Stormwater Utility Fee with the Director of the Department of Transportation and Environmental Services, please submit a Stormwater Utility Fee Appeal and Adjustment Request Form by June 15, 2020. Forms will be available after May 15 on the City’s website at alexandriava.gov/Stormwater, and at the Stormwater Management Division, 2900‐B Business Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22314

The Code of Virginia does not allow for waiver of tax, penalty, or interest due to inability to pay or failure to receive a tax bill. Property owners who do not receive a real estate tax bill in the mail and do not have their real estate taxes paid by their mortgage companies should contact the City’s Treasury Division at   payments@alexandriava.gov, or call 703.746.3902, Option 4, to request a bill before June 15. Detailed real estate tax balances and payment history are available 24-hours a day on the City’s website at   realestate.alexandriava.gov. Property owners who changed their mailing address but did not previously report this change to the City can update their address by contacting the Office of Real Estate Assessment at   realestate@alexandriava.gov to ensure that future bills and correspondence are mailed to the correct address.

To determine pay in person hours for the Treasury Division, City Hall, 301 King Street, Room 1510, please visit alexandriava.gov/Payments or call 703.746.3902.  A drop box on the Royal Street side of City Hall is available 24 hours a day.  Additional information about the City’s real estate tax is available on the Finance Department website at  alexandriava.gov/RealEstateTax. Information on real estate assessments, appeals, or updating the property owner’s mailing address is available from the Office of Real Estate Assessment at   alexandriava.gov/RealEstate. Information on payments, late payment penalty, and interest can be obtained through the Alexandria Tax Guide at  alexandriava.gov/TaxGuide or by contacting the Treasury Division.  Information on the stormwater utility fee is available at alexandriava.gov/Stormwater.

Expanded Unemployment Benefits

Virginia has announced expanded unemployment benefits as part of the federal CARES Act, which increases weekly benefits by $600 for workers with unemployment insurance claims effective March 29 through July 31. Payments to eligible claimants will be retroactive and will be made automatically in conjunction with weekly claims. New benefits for previously uncovered workers were also announced.Affected workers like the self-employed, who are not eligible under traditional unemployment insurance, may be eligible under the new federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program. To be eligible for this new program, workers must first apply through traditional unemployment by visiting the Virginia Employment Commission or the Virginia Workforce Connection.

Resources for Victims of Domestic Violence or Sexual Assault

These are stressful times because of health risks from COVID-19 and because everyone must stay home as much as possible. For some people, staying home doesn’t always feel safe, because someone there may threaten or hurt them. If this describes your situation, call the City’s Sexual Assault Hotline at 703.638.7273 or Domestic Violence Hotline at 703.746.4911. Learn more about resources for victims of sexual assault or domestic violence, including a shareable flyer on staying safe at home during this crisis.

National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, April 12-18

National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week is an annual recognition dedicated to raising appreciation and awareness of hard-working public safety call takers and dispatchers across the country. Nearly three dozen City telecommunicators dispatch law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical personnel and coordinate with other agencies. Public Safety Telecommunicators are the “first of the first responders” — the first point of contact for people responding to emergencies, and the first point of contact for those seeking emergency services, ranging from persons dealing with intense personal crisis to community-wide disasters like the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2019, the City received approximately 70,000 calls to 911. The City’s public safety telecommunicators are committed and dedicated to helping every caller through any emergency, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Reminder: Trash Goes in Plastic Bags — Recycling Does Not

Beginning Monday, April 13, residents receiving City trash and recycling service must place all materials in their City-issued bins or carts. Trash should be tied or sealed in plastic bags within the bins or carts. Recycling should be placed loose, with no plastic bag, inside the blue bins or carts. Residents who have not been issued a City trash container should place tied or sealed plastic trash bags on the curb. Those who do not use a City recycling bin or cart should place recyclables in paper bags on the curb. For the safety of collection crews and to encourage waste to be reduced, loose trash or recycling on the curb will not be collected. For additional service changes related to Resource Recovery, see alexandriava.gov/ResourceRecovery.

30 New COVID-19 Cases and 1 New Fatality in Alexandria, Bringing the Total to 303 Cases and 7 Fatalities

On April 16, the Alexandria Health Department confirmed 30 additional cases of COVID-19 and one additional fatality in Alexandria, bringing the total number of cases to 303 (including 7 fatalities). The continued rise in positive cases reflects the additional testing capacity of private healthcare providers as well continued community transmission. It is essential for all community members, even those who don’t have a diagnosed illness, to stay home except for essential trips such as brief visits to the pharmacy, doctor, or grocery store.

To respect the privacy of individuals and their families, AHD will not disclose additional details about cases or fatalities unless there is a public health need to do so. AHD is contacting all confirmed cases and providing them guidance to give to their close contacts (people who came within 6 feet of cases for more than 10 minutes). AHD is also calling close contacts of confirmed cases in high risk settings (e.g., nursing homes, assisted living facilities, healthcare centers). All close contacts are asked to self-quarantine and actively monitor for fever and respiratory symptoms. If they start experiencing symptoms, they are advised to seek medical care if their symptoms are severe.

If You Have Symptoms of COVID-19

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are coughing, fever of over 100.4 F, and shortness of breath. Use the CDC’s Coronavirus Self-Checker to review your symptoms. If you are concerned you may have COVID-19, call your healthcare provider to ask whether you should come for an exam or test before visiting in person. Most people who get COVID-19 recover on their own at home and do not need testing or treatment. Anyone with symptoms of respiratory illness should isolate themselves; avoid contact with other people; wash their hands frequently; and disinfect surfaces regularly.

If you have symptoms of COVID-19 and believe you’ve been in close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19, call the Alexandria COVID-19 Information Line at 703.746.4988, weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Alexandria Health Department does not provide COVID-19 diagnosis or testing. If you need a letter about your health status, contact your healthcare provider. If AHD has contacted you directly for active monitoring or quarantine, AHD can provide a letter for your employer clearing you to return to work once that is complete.

Protect Yourself and Others, Especially Vulnerable Community Members

• Wash Your Hands. Rub hands together with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Use Hand Sanitizer. If you can’t wash your hands, use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol as you would wash your hands, rubbing them together for 20 seconds.
• Don’t Touch Your Face. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Stay Home. If you are feeling sick, stay home. If you are well, avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Use Your Elbow. Cough and sneeze into your elbow, not your hand. Alternatively, cough or sneeze into a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash, and wash your hands.
• Disinfect Surfaces. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Manage Stress. The CDC recommends taking breaks from exposure to the news; take deep breaths or meditate; try to eat healthy; get sleep or rest; make time to do activities you enjoy; and connect with others to share your feelings.

To receive text message alerts from the City related to COVID-19, text ALEXCOVID19 to 888777. For more information about the COVID-19 coronavirus and how you can help protect yourself and those around you, visit alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. For questions about COVID-19, call the Alexandria COVID-19 Information Line at 703.746.4988, weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Virginia residents can also call the Virginia Department of Health public information line, 877.ASK.VDH3., for questions about the novel coronavirus situation. If you have chest pain or shortness of breath, call or text 911.

Shopping Hours to Reduce COVID-19 Complication Risks
The City’s website now lists Alexandria grocery stores that have provided information about separate shopping hours for customers at higher risk for COVID-19 infection complications. All residents should continue practicing physical distancing while in public and avoid unnecessary trips. AHD’s Environmental Health staff have been conducting outreach to grocery stores with these types of policies to support proper sanitization efforts. Grocery stores interested in beginning similar measures can reach out for technical assistance and guidance at 703.746.4910.   

CDC Provides Guidance for Persons with Disabilities
Although most people with disabilities are not inherently at higher risk for becoming infected with or having severe illness from COVID-19, some people with disabilities might be at a higher risk of infection or severe illness because of their underlying medical conditions. All people seem to be at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 if they have serious underlying chronic medical conditions like chronic lung disease, a serious heart condition, or a weakened immune system. Adults with disabilities are three times more likely than adults without disabilities to have heart disease, stroke, diabetes, or cancer than adults without disabilities. Review new CDC guidance for persons with disabilities, and talk with your healthcare provider if you have a question about your health or how your health condition is being managed.

8 New COVID-19 Cases in Alexandria, Bringing the Total to 149
On April 8, the Alexandria Health Department confirmed eight additional cases of COVID-19 in Alexandria, bringing the total to 149 (including one fatality). Many of the recent results were from tests done four to eight days prior. This lag in test results underscores the continued need for all community members to stay home as much as possible, even if they don’t have a diagnosed illness. AHD is contacting all confirmed cases and providing them guidance to give to their close contacts (people who came within six feet of cases for more than 10 minutes). AHD is also calling close contacts of confirmed cases in high risk settings (e.g. nursing homes, assisted living facilities, healthcare centers). All close contacts are asked to self-quarantine and actively monitor for fever and respiratory symptoms. If they start experiencing symptoms, they are advised to seek medical care if their symptoms are severe or if they are healthcare workers or first responders. The rise in positive cases is likely due to a combination of additional testing capacity through private healthcare providers as well as an increase in community transmission.

If You Have Symptoms of COVID-19
The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are coughing, fever of over 100.4 F, and shortness of breath. Use the CDC’s Coronavirus Self-Checker to review your symptoms. If you are concerned you may have COVID-19, call your healthcare provider to ask whether you should come for an exam or test before visiting in person. Most people who get COVID-19 recover on their own at home and do not need testing or treatment. Anyone with symptoms of respiratory illness should isolate themselves; avoid contact with other people; wash their hands frequently; and disinfect surfaces regularly.

If you have symptoms of COVID-19 and believe you’ve been in close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19, call the Alexandria COVID-19 Information Line at 703.746.4988, weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Alexandria Health Department does not provide COVID-19 diagnosis or testing. If you need a letter about your health status, contact your healthcare provider. If AHD has contacted you directly for active monitoring or quarantine, AHD can provide a letter for your employer clearing you to return to work once that is complete.

Protect Yourself and Others, Especially Vulnerable Community Members

• Wash Your Hands. Rub hands together with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Use Hand Sanitizer. If you can’t wash your hands, use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol as you would wash your hands, rubbing them together for 20 seconds. 
• Don’t Touch Your Face. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Stay Home. If you are feeling sick, stay home. If you are well, avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Use Your Elbow. Cough and sneeze into your elbow, not your hand. Alternatively, cough or sneeze into a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash, and wash your hands.
• Disinfect Surfaces. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Manage Stress. The CDC recommends taking breaks from exposure to the news; take deep breaths or meditate; try to eat healthy; get sleep or rest; make time to do activities you enjoy; and connect with others to share your feelings. 

During these challenging times, you can help ensure that local nonprofit and charitable organizations in Alexandria, Virginia continue their important work by participating in ACT for Alexandria’s Spring2ACTion, a community-wide day of giving, on April 15.

Spring2ACTion is a 24-hour online fundraising event that connects donors with the local nonprofits and charitable causes they care about most–and encourages them to take action. Since 2011, Spring2ACTion has been a time where Alexandrians come together to support the organizations that serve our community in the best and most challenging of times. This year, your help is needed more than ever. Due to the COVID-19 crisis, many organizations have put aside fundraising events and revenue-generating programs to deal with the increased need for programs and services.  

Your generous donation can help participating Alexandria nonprofits that provide services such as food, shelter, animal rescue, tutoring, and support of the arts, or you can enter one or more specific organizations. The list includes programs associated with City departments, such as the Alexandria Library Foundation, Alexandria Police Foundation, Alexandria Police Youth Camp, Center for Alexandria’s Children, Friends of the Alexandria Mental Health Center, Fund for Alexandria’s Child, Historic Alexandria’s Freedom House Museum initiative, the Space of Her Own (SOHO) mentoring program, and the Vola Lawson Breast Cancer Fund.

Help Spring2ACTion by visiting the City of Alexandria giving page today!  

• The Board unanimously accepted the proposal by Commercial Waterproofing Inc., in the amount of $376,905 to perform exterior maintenance to the South Building. Additionally, the Board unanimously approved the purchase of a Payment & Performance Bond at a cost of $7,600, bringing the total project cost to $384,505. Commencement of the project is contingent on the duration of the Virginia Governor’s “Stay at Home” Executive Order.
• The Board unanimously approved the purchase of two sets of black TNR rubber garage doors – for the East and West Buildings – in the amount of $84,804 from Overhead Doors. A unanimous approval for Overhead Door’s annual preventative maintenance contract in the amount of $4,272 was also accepted. Installation of the garage doors is contingent on the Virginia Governor’s “Stay at Home” Executive Order.
• The Board voted unanimously to approve the date for the 2020 Annual Meeting & tentative timeline. The Annual Meeting and Election is tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, August 5, 2020 at 7:00pm in the Carlyle Room. This date may change, depending on whether the Governor’s “Stay at Home” Executive Order is extended. President Binker asked that Management and the Election Committee Chair discuss an alternative in the event that we cannot hold a meeting.

Updates:

• President Binker reported that the bylaw ratification letters will be mailed out to residents on Monday, April 6. He noted that volunteers may wish to call and/or email residents to ensure they respond. He also announced that the Board will approve the minutes from the March 4 meeting and ratify all actions at the next open board meeting.
• Vice President Mellen asked whether the upcoming maintenance projects will be postponed; Management confirmed that the following projects will be postponed: Garage Cleaning, Window Washing and Bulk Pick-Up, Shred-it & Donate-It Day. She also discussed the importance of implementing an online-bill payer option for residents; Management will bring a recommendation to the May meeting.

• There are currently 93 units that are leased by unit owners resulting in a current rental ratio of 16%. There are also 11 units that are vacant.
• 264 residents participated in the SmarTrip Program for the month of March.

Interested residents can review the information presented to the Board; copies of the Board report are available at the front desk for you to review. They are made available the Friday before each Board meeting. The Board generally meets the first Wednesday of each month.

Practice Physical Distancing
Staying home and maintaining six feet of personal space when in public are some of the best ways to stay safe and stop the spread of COVID-19 coronavirus. Until today, the City and AHD have used the phrase “social distancing” to encourage people to maintain six feet of personal space and avoid crowds and gatherings. The phrase “physical distancing” will now be used because in these difficult times, social connectedness is more important than ever. Here are some of the many ways to maintain social connectivity to family, friends, neighbors and community, while practicing physical distancing:

• Safely share time with those closest to you by using videoconferencing tools to schedule the same activities you would normally do together, including meals, walks in the park, game nights and more.
• Join local community group social platforms to connect with neighbors and stay current on the latest news in your neighborhood.
• Livestream birthday parties and other planned events so friends and family can celebrate special occasions together.
• Send cards and letters to nursing and senior homes.
• Participate in virtual fitness and arts programs with fellow Alexandrians.
• Watch movies at the same time as friends using chat features now available on many streaming platforms.

Coping with Uncertainty for Parents and Children
Fear and anxiety about COVID-19 can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Taking care of yourself, your friends and your family can help you cope with stress. Helping others cope with their stress can also make your community stronger. There are coping resources and strategies for parents and children, including printable versions in Amharic, Arabic and Spanish.

Support for Alexandria Businesses
Businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic are encouraged to view resources from the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership. This webpage contains regular updates about policies and programs that support the Alexandria business community. Businesses can also sign-up for a special COVID-19 newsletter. For information and guidance on how to apply for federal disaster assistance, visit the Alexandria Small Business Development Center’s website or email help@alexandriasbdc.org.

Eviction Proceedings Suspended
The Virginia Supreme Court ordered all non-emergency civil proceedings, including evictions, suspended through April 26. Renters facing financial hardship due to COVID-19 should contact their landlords to ask for relief of April rent payment. The City has asked Alexandria landlords not to pursue evictions for late April rent payments; to work with tenants on payment plans to repay late rent over the next 12 months; and to waive late fees and other penalties. The Office of Housing’s Landlord-Tenant Division is available to help landlords and tenants draft and implement installment plans. For referrals to other resources to help tenants dealing with the impacts of COVID-19, call 703.746.3078 or email melodie.seau@alexandriava.gov. Income-eligible renters in need of emergency rental assistance can also contact the Department of Community and Human Services at 703.746.5700.

12 New COVID-19 Cases in Alexandria, Bringing the Total to 67
On April 2, the Alexandria Health Department confirmed 12 additional cases of COVID-19 in Alexandria, bringing the total to 67. AHD is identifying and contacting individuals who came in close contact with the confirmed cases. The close contacts will be asked to self-quarantine and actively monitor for fever and respiratory symptoms. If they start experiencing symptoms, they will immediately undergo testing. As a result of the AHD’s case investigations and expanded testing through private providers, the number of positive cases is expected to continue to increase.

If You Have Symptoms of COVID-19
The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are coughing, fever of over 100.4 F, and shortness of breath. Use the CDC’s Coronavirus Self-Checker to review your symptoms. If you are concerned you may have COVID-19, call your healthcare provider to ask whether you should come for an exam or test before visiting in person. Most people who get COVID-19 recover on their own at home and do not need testing or treatment. Anyone with symptoms of respiratory illness should isolate themselves; avoid contact with other people; wash their hands frequently; and disinfect surfaces regularly.

If you have symptoms of COVID-19 and believe you’ve been in close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19, call the Alexandria COVID-19 Information Line at 703.746.4988, weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Alexandria Health Department does not provide COVID-19 diagnosis or testing. If you need a letter about your health status, contact your healthcare provider. If AHD has contacted you directly for active monitoring or quarantine, AHD can provide a letter for your employer clearing you to return to work once that is complete.

Protect Yourself and Others, Especially Vulnerable Community Members

• Wash Your Hands. Rub hands together with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Use Hand Sanitizer. If you can’t wash your hands, use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol as you would wash your hands, rubbing them together for 20 seconds. 
• Don’t Touch Your Face. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Stay Home. If you are feeling sick, stay home. If you are well, avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Use Your Elbow. Cough and sneeze into your elbow, not your hand. Alternatively, cough or sneeze into a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash, and wash your hands.
• Disinfect Surfaces. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Manage Stress. The CDC recommends taking breaks from exposure to the news; take deep breaths or meditate; try to eat healthy; get sleep or rest; make time to do activities you enjoy; and connect with others to share your feelings. 

To receive text message alerts from the City related to COVID-19, text ALEXCOVID19 to 888777. For more information about the COVID-19 coronavirus and how you can help protect yourself and those around you, visit alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.

For questions about COVID-19, call the Alexandria COVID-19 Information Line at 703.746.4988, weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Virginia residents can also call the Virginia Department of Health public information line, 877.ASK.VDH3, for questions about the novel coronavirus situation. If you have chest pain or shortness of breath, call or text 911.

• In addition to live phone support, online chat service will be available Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Sunday 12:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• Reference service is also available via Ask a Librarian on our website.
• All meeting room bookings are cancelled until further notice.
• All due dates on physical items you currently have checked out will be extended until the Library reopens. Please feel free to keep those items for now; however, the book drops will remain open for your convenience.
• Overdue fines will be waived.
• Holds will be suspended and unavailable.
• No new interlibrary loan requests will be processed; customers should keep any loans currently in their possession until the library reopens.
• No donated materials will be accepted until further notice.
• WiFi will continue to be available and can be accessed in the parking lots.
• The Talking Books service will continue to provide materials via mail to blind and physically handicapped customers.

eBooks, eAudiobooks, and Other Digital Resources
While libraries are closed, you’ll still find plenty of resources available in our online catalog. The Library has purchased additional eBooks and eAudiobooks to increase your options. We also have available many other digital resources – including free training, streaming music, periodicals, and research databases.

Virtual ProgrammingIn addition, library staff have already begun to provide online services including technology training and story hours through our Youtube channel.

Please also see this list of available services and a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

We want to resume full operations as quickly and safely as possible. To that end, we’ll work closely with the Alexandria City government and the Alexandria Health Department to keep you informed of any changes. We look forward to welcoming everyone back when we reopen.

• All spring programs, classes, activities, sports leagues, Out of School Time programs and camps taking place prior to June 22 are cancelled.
• The opening of registration for summer programs is delayed until at least May 6. Summer registration applies to classes, leagues and activities taking place June 22 through September 4.
• Summer camp registration is suspended until at least May 6.
• All facility and picnic reservations are suspended until at least May 6.

To continue to provide opportunities that improve the well-being of the community, RPCA is now offering virtual programming. Visit alexandriava.gov/Recreation for a list of free virtual opportunities to exercise your mind and body from home. Program options include performances, fitness classes, poetry readings, and activities for youth. New programs are being added regularly, so check back often.

The Alexandria Health Department strongly urges everyone to stay home except for essential trips such as food purchases and medical care, and keep six feet apart from others when in public. Each individual can help stop the spread of COVID-19 coronavirus in our community by following this guidance:

• DO: Maintain six feet of personal space
• DO: Cover your coughs and sneezes
• DO: Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer
• DO: Call your doctor and describe symptoms before going
• DON’T: Leave the house if you’re sick
• DON’T: Attend any non-essential gatherings, or any gatherings of over 10 people

Visit alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus for the most up-to-date information from the Alexandria Health Department. For questions about COVID-19, call the Alexandria COVID-19 Information Line at 703.746.4988, weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Virginia residents can also call the Virginia Department of Health public information line, 877-ASK-VDH3, for questions about the novel coronavirus situation.

Visit alexandriava.gov/Recreation for RPCA service updates and virtual programming opportunities.  

The New Year’s Eve bash takes place all over Old Town Alexandria, with 100 live performances at 23 venues, the Annual Fun Hunt, plus children’s face painting and games; and a midnight spectacular with fireworks on the Potomac River waterfront. Performances conclude at 11:30 p.m.

The event is FREE for active military personnel and their families and is FREE for kids 12 and under.

NOTE(s): There will be road closures and you can get in free by volunteering at First Night Alexandria.

To get your tickets to First Night Alexandria, visit this link. To view the schedule of events, visit this link. To donate (tax deductible) to the event, visit this link.

There were eight residents in attendance at the meeting. During the Open Forum session, a South Building resident noted that the ground lights in the Dog Walk Area appear dim. Another South Building resident asked Treasurer Cawley to explain the cause(s) of the budget overages for fiscal year 2019. Next, a South Building resident commented that the Dog Walk Area looks very nice. Finally, a townhome owner thanked the Board and Management on behalf of all other townhome residents for the approval of the front door re-painting.

• The Board unanimously approved the November 6 meeting minutes.
• The Board unanimously approved to amendthe agenda to add the Angel Tree Project (a donation campaign) under New Business.
• The Board unanimously approved the Angel Tree Project. More information will be posted on BuildingLink, easels, and bulletin boards.
• The Board unanimously approved the replacement of the DesertAire Unit in the East Building spa at a cost of $35,387.
• The Board unanimously approved an expenditure in the amount of $9,191 for the replacement of the backflow preventer and associated valve in the East Building pump room.
• The Board unanimously approved the replacement of the West Building’s rooftop Reznor Units A & B at a cost not to exceed $15,500.
• The Board unanimously approved the Replacement Reserve Committee’s request to allow Thomas Downey, Ltd., to create a Statement of Work (boilerplate) template for potential engineering firms at a not-to-exceed amount of $3,000.

Updates:

• President Binker reported on the recent East/South Building water shutoff during the backflow preventer replacement; he also mentioned that the East Building booster pump will need to be replaced this fiscal year, which will also require a total building shutoff.
• Treasure Cawley reported that the Association is better than budget by $19K.
• Vice President Mellen commended the Engineering and Management teams on ample and prompt notification of the East/South building water shutoff. She also reminded residents to promptly pick up packages, as there is little space in the receiving room.
• Secretary Audrain inquired about the allocation of taxes with respect to the interest earned on reserves.
• Director Bairstow relayed that a resident asked if the remaining tree stump in the newly updated Dog Walk Area will be removed; Management is working with Chapel Valley to have it removed. She also reminded everyone of the French horn holiday concert in the West Building lobby on Sunday, December 15 at 4:00 PM.
• Vice President Mellen and Secretary Audrain provided a smoking report which may be found on BuildingLink.
• Mr. Tap, Chair of the Energy Committee, provided the Board with a PowerPoint presentation from the committee.
• There are currently 91 units that are leased by owners; this is equivalent to a rental ratio of 16%. (There are also 12 units that are vacant.)
• 257 residents participated in the SmarTrip program for the month of November.

Interested residents can review the information presented to the Board; copies of the Board report are available at the front desk for you to review. They are made available the Friday before each Board meeting. The Board generally meets the first Wednesday of each month.

After George Bailey (James Stewart) wishes he had never been born, an angel (Henry Travers) is sent to earth to make George’s wish come true. George starts to realize how many lives he has changed and impacted, and how they would be different if he was never there.

Nominated for five Academy Awards, the film has gone on to become one of the most inspirational and beloved movies in American cinema. It has since been recognized by the American Film Institute as one of the 100 best American Films ever made.

For more events in the Alexandria, Virginia area, visit this link.

Have you got your decorations up? Remember to be smart on your door displays.

Regular rail service expected on all lines

Metro announced that the six Blue and Yellow line stations south of Reagan National Airport—Braddock Rd, King St-Old Town, Eisenhower Ave, Huntington, Van Dorn St, and Franconia-Springfield—will reopen as scheduled Monday, September 9, with completely rebuilt platforms and several customer improvements.

On Monday, regular rail service will resume on the Blue and Yellow lines when the system opens at 5 a.m. Residents may notice “test trains” operating in the shutdown area this weekend as Metro makes final preparations for the reopening.

With the resumption of rail service, Metro will no longer run shuttle buses from the stations; however, some shuttles will remain on standby in the event of a disruption. In addition, regular parking fees will resume on Monday.

“All stations are reopening on time, and we look forward to welcoming our Northern Virginia customers back to the rails on Monday,” said General Manager Paul J. Wiedefeld. “We are incredibly thankful to our customers, residents and nearby businesses for their understanding this summer as we reconstructed six-station platforms – at the same time – in the largest and most complex capital project since Metro’s original construction. When the project is complete this fall, customers will benefit not only from safer infrastructure but a more modern and convenient station experience.”

New station improvements include slip-resistant tiles on the platforms and in the mezzanine areas, stainless-steel platform shelters with charging outlets/ports, additional Passenger Information Display (PIDS) screens, energy-efficient LED lighting throughout the station and improved speakers for clearer public announcements and emergency notifications.

By closing the stations and providing workers with around-the-clock access, Metro was able to limit the customer impact to one summer, rather than several years of single-tracking and weekend shutdowns.

While all heavy construction activity has been completed, customers should be aware that work will continue for several more weeks without impacting train service:

• At Franconia-Springfield and Huntington stations, customers will board all trains from one side of the platform. In addition, non-slip tile installation is ongoing throughout the mezzanine areas in these two stations.
• At Huntington Station’s north entrance, fare vending machines will not be available for approximately three weeks. The City of Alexandria’s mobile commuter store will be located in the mezzanine weekdays from 5:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. At other times, customers can load their cards online or access machines on the south side of the station.
• At Huntington Station, the walkway between the Huntington North garage and Huntington 3 (middle) garage will remain closed.
• At Braddock Rd Station, the availability of bike racks will be limited due to ongoing construction staging.
• Some passenger information displays may not be operational in the first days of service. Customers should listen for announcements from Metro employees or visit wmata.com for next train information, service status and trip planning.

Supplemental bus trips on 8S,Z; 10A; 11Y; 21A; and enhanced weekend Metroway service ended as scheduled on Friday, September 6. However, enhanced rush hour bus service on the 11Y will continue to operate until Wednesday, September 11. Click here for more information on Metrobus service.

Kiss & Ride lots being used as construction staging areas will remain closed and bus stops will remain in temporary locations into the fall at Braddock Rd, Eisenhower Ave, Huntington North, King Street and Van Dorn St stations. For additional information, check the station vicinity maps available here.

In advance of Monday’s reopening, customers are encouraged to ensure their SmarTrip cards are loaded with sufficient fare to avoid possible lines at station vending machines. Visit wmata.com/smartrip to reload your card online.

Metro’s Capital Program

Metro is investing in system safety, reliability and the region’s economy through its 10-year, $15 billion capital program. For the first time in Metro’s history, the capital program is bolstered by dedicated funding from Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. The capital program will improve the customer experience and keep the region’s infrastructure in a state of good repair by investing in new railcars and buses, improving stations and platforms, upgrading fire-suppression and emergency response systems, replacing and repairing tracks, tunnels, bridges, signals, and communications systems, rebuilding decades-old bus garages and providing modern customer amenities such as passenger information systems. In spending local taxpayer dollars for capital projects, Metro is seeking to reinvest in our hometown economy, creating jobs and encouraging participation from disadvantaged, minority-owned, and small businesses in the region.

There were ten residents in attendance at the meeting. No comments were made during the Open Forum.

• The Board unanimously approved the July 10 meeting minutes as amended.
• The Board unanimously approved the Landscape Committee’s request for $19K to refurbish the rear dog walk area (phase 1 of a 3-phase landscape project). President Binker reminded Management to be more conscientious when spending throughout the fiscal year.  
• The Board unanimously approved an expenditure of $8,387 to replace the HVAC unit in the commercial space at 2165 Jamieson Avenue.

Updates:

• President Binker welcomed new Board Director, Bob Lentini, and explained that the Board will appoint committee members and liaisons at the October Board meeting. He also announced that the additional new pool furniture will arrive this week.  
• Treasurer Cawley reported that the Association is over budget by $75K. He also suggested that Management feature an article about elevator safety in the upcoming newsletter.
• Vice President Mellen presented the idea of an awareness campaign with the goal of lowering CTC utility bills; she also announced that, as Board liaison to the Election Committee, she volunteers to work with the committee to simplify the ballot and proxy instructions to increase resident participation in the annual elections. Finally, she provided a synopsis of the smoking survey results, and reminded residents that this was only a survey (and does not represent resident “votes”), and that more community participation and input on this topic is needed; a more detailed report will be presented at the October 2 Board meeting.
• Director Bairstow informed the board and residents in attendance that the Dine In/Out Club will begin in January, after the holidays.
• Mr. Tap, Chair of the Energy Committee, provided the Board with a written update from the committee.
• Management presented before and after photos of the dryer duct cleaning. President Binker suggests residents have their ducts cleaned periodically.
• There are currently 95 units that are leased by owners; this is equivalent to a rental ratio of 17%. (There are also 11 units that are vacant.)
• 257 residents participated in the SmarTrip program for the month of August.

Here, in a series of short clips, the History Channel takes a look at the origins of Labor Day, changing methods of manufacturing and legislative gains made by labor unions. While you take your three day weekend, remember those who struggled to get Friday and Saturday off.

An interesting fact on this Labor Day from the U.S. Census Bureau – About 20.6 million commuters leave for work between 7-7:29 a.m. Only 4.5 percent leave between midnight and 4:59 a.m.

The ceremony will feature remarks from Mayor Justin Wilson and representatives from Alexandria’s public safety agencies: Acting Fire Chief Corey Smedley, Police Chief Michael Brown and Sheriff Dana Lawhorne. The tribute will also include the “Return to Quarters” bell-ringing ceremony.

When it was first founded in 1868, Memorial Day was called Decoration Day, and its purpose was to honor those who had died in the Civil War by laying flowers on their graves – the “decoration” that gave the holiday its name. Prior to the official establishment of Decoration Day by an organization of Union army veterans called the Grand Army of the Republic, there were several possible origins for the holiday, including claims that women decorated Civil War soldiers’ graves as early as 1861 in Virginia, while the war was still raging in both the North and the South.

However, the first recorded mass observance of a holiday resembling Decoration Day was in 1865 in Charleston, South Carolina, where African-American residents of the city paid tribute to Union prisoners of war who had died there during the war and been buried in unmarked graves. The “official” birthplace of Decoration Day is currently known to be Waterloo, New York, although several cities including Boalsburg, Pennsylvania, Carbondale, Illinois, Columbus, Georgia, and Columbus, Mississippi all lay claim to this honor as well.

Although the name “Memorial Day” was first used in 1882, it did not become more common until after World War II, as people slowly grew to accept this name instead of the traditional “Decoration Day.” Memorial Day was not declared the official name by Federal law until 1967. One year later, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which moved Memorial Day from its traditional May 30 date to the last Monday in May in order to create a three-day weekend, which would be more convenient for people to take the day off. Although the law took effect in 1971, it took several years for all 50 states to comply due to initial confusion.

At Carlyle Towers, we display American flags all over the property during Memorial Day weekend to show that we remember the fallen.

Today, Memorial Day is celebrated officially by raising the American flag to the top of the staff and then lowering it to the half-staff position until noon, after which it is again raised to full-staff. Individual people often celebrate Memorial Day by hosting picnics and barbecues to enjoy the start of summer, but as a nation, we should continue to keep our fallen heroes in our thoughts all year round.

Port City Wire reports the cidery will open its doors in June 2019.

In Alexandria, there is no Republican Party primary election this June. Instead, the Republican Party will hold a party canvass (meeting) to nominate its candidates for the November election.

Checking Registration

If you have moved since the last time you voted, please make sure you are registered at your current address. You may check your registration online or contact voters@alexandriava.gov, or call 703.746.4050.

New Registrations

The following voter registration methods are available to U.S. citizens living in Virginia who will be 18 or older by November 5, 2019:

• Submit the application online before midnight, May 20.
• Register in person at the Office of Voter Registration and Elections (132 N. Royal St., Suite 100) by 5 p.m. on May 20.
• Download an application online, print, sign and mail the completed form to the Office of Voter Registration and Elections, 132 N. Royal St., Suite 100, Alexandria, VA 22314. Applications must be postmarked on or before May 20.

Address Updates

The same deadlines are in effect for Virginia voters who are registered, but have moved within the City of Alexandria or Virginia. Voters who do not update their registration records before the deadline are at risk of being ineligible to vote in this election.

Virginia registered voters who need to update their addresses may do so using any of the methods listed above, or by completing a new voter registration application and faxing it to the Office of Voter Registration and Elections at 703.838.6449 by 5 p.m. on May 20.

Voter information letters for new or transferred registrants will be mailed within one week of the registration date.

Absentee Voting and Other Election Information

Virginians who are registered to vote must show photo identification when voting. Check alexandriava.gov/Elections, or call 703.746.4050 for a list of accepted photo identification and other election information, including sample ballots and in-person absentee voting hours. In-person absentee voting for this election continues until 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 8.

For more information, contact Anna Leider, General Registrar, Office of Voter, or 703.746.4050, or visit alexandriava.gov/Elections.

We apologize for the inconvenience, and appreciate your patience as we work to beautify the Carlyle community!

Invented by 2019 NIHF Inductee Andrew Higgins, the Higgins Boat, or Landing Craft, Vehicle, Personnel (LCVP), was used to land American troops on the beaches of Normandy on D-Day. This revolutionary craft was also used in North Africa, Italy and across the Pacific, for island hopping through Guadalcanal, Iwo Jima and Okinawa, and it allowed the U.S. Army to cross the Rhine River into Germany in March 1945.

The exhibit is part of the 2019 National Inventors Hall of Fame Inductees exhibit and will be open to the public April 27 through July 27. Visitors are encouraged to climb aboard the iconic boat, take a picture and check in at the location on social media using #HigginsBoat. Visitors can then go inside the NIHF Museum to learn more about Higgins and the rest of the 2019 Class of Inducteesincluding Chieko Asakawa, inventor of the Home Page Reader, and the inventors of Stannous Fluoride Toothpaste, Joseph Muhler and William Nebergall!

The City of Alexandria will host “RecFest” on Saturday, May 4, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Armistead L. Boothe Park, located at 520 Cameron Station Blvd in Alexandria, Virginia. RecFest is a day of fun for the whole family, with activities representing the City’s fitness, sports, enrichment, arts, nature, out of school time, and summer camp programs.

Attendees can enjoy free demos, meet instructors and staff, and register for programs and camps on-site. RecFest will also feature a live performance by the fun, interactive children’s pop-rock “Rainbow Rock Band,” where kids can play instruments along with the band. Additional free activities include face painting, a moon bounce, balloon art, live animal demonstrations, hands-on science and craft projects, and art activities with the City’s Mobile Art Lab. Participate in the RecFest “Passport to Fun” event to win a prize, and be one of the first 25 people to register for a summer camp to receive a gift. Food trucks will offer food for sale. Admission and all activities are free.

For more information, visit this link.

In case of inclement weather, the event will take place indoors at Samuel W. Tucker Elementary School, located nearby at 435 Ferdinand Day Drive in Alexandria.

In September 2018, City Council approved Resolution 2842, establishing the Alexandria Complete Count Committee to encourage all residents to participate in the 2020 Census. Working with staff, the Committee will develop and implement an outreach strategy focused especially on communities that have been historically undercounted.

The 2020 Census will begin one year from Census Day 2019 on April 1. In preparation, the Complete Count Committee will work to ensure that all Alexandria residents are aware of the vital importance of the 2020 Census and are ready to respond to the count with understanding, knowledge, and confidence.

The 2020 Census is the opportunity to collect the most accurate count of United States  residents for the next decade. An accurate count is critical to ensuring that all residents are fairly represented in federal and state government and that Alexandria gets its fair share of resources to provide public services. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that any person not counted in Alexandria results in the loss of $20,000 of funding over 10 years.

For background information, meeting materials and updates throughout the planning process, visit alexandriava.gov/Census2020.

Reservation includes one art experience, art supplies, pizza and soda. Select from the following three art experiences:

• Paint with Teresa Brunson – Ages 5 and up with adult
  Activity #: 355202.06
  Do you love to paint? No experience necessary – Patrick will guide you through painting your very own masterpiece. Take your masterpiece home at the end of the evening. 
  Limit: 50 registrants 
  

• Create Mosaics with Maria Illingworth – Ages 6 and up with adult
  Activity #: 355202.07
  Design a mosaic trivet that you can give as a gift or use in the kitchen. 
  Limit: 30 registrants
  

• Create a clay sculpture with Sharmila Karamchandani – Ages 5 and up with adult
  Activity #: 355202.08
  Back by popular demand is an opportunity to create a clay sculpture.  Teresa will guide you through creating a 3-D multi-color fantasy dragon. The dragon sculpture can be given as a gift, or you can showcase it in your house. 
  Limit: 20 registrants
  

Reservations are $9 per person. Children under 5 years old are free. Children must be accompanied by one adult.

Register online by visiting www.alexandriava.gov/Webtrac.

The “Family Art Night” is part of the “First Fridays” Series. The Series is a project of the Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities’ Office of the Arts.

For additional further information, please contact Cheryl Anne Colton at 703.746.5565, or visit www.alexandriava.gov/Arts.

Officers responded to a shots fired call early this morning and apprehended one suspect.

There were no injuries reported.

While Mardi Gras festivities kick off in New Orleans, the party is already underway in Alexandria, Virginia. 

A former Alexandria pastor was sentenced Tuesday to eight years in prison for a fraud scheme that used church members as victims.

Though this wet weather weekend is likely to give more rain than snow, D.C. residents might be able to expect more wintry weather conditions Sunday night.

Potomac Riverboat Company’s fleet of seven water taxis, including four bright yellow high-speed water taxis added last season, started running on the Potomac River again this year, March 1.

Amazon has joined the Greater Washington Partnership, an alliance of many of the region’s largest companies, as its seeks to project an image that it will be a good corporate citizen in its new Crystal City headquarters.

Engineers will conduct core drilling around the stations to assess conditions, and power to the stations will be cut to allow testing on cables and electrical systems. In addition, crews will conduct hazard assessment and mitigation, install temporary safety equipment, and perform inspections of the platform structures.

Metro will use the closure to conduct additional maintenance and track work, including rail and tie renewal and switch maintenance near Braddock Road Station.

Rail service between Reagan National Airport and Washington, DC, will be available throughout the weekend, with trains departing the airport every 10 minutes (alternating every 20 minutes on Yellow, every 20 minutes on Blue). A similar weekend closure to prepare for the platform project is planned for this spring.

SERVICE INFORMATION:

Blue Line

• Shuttle buses replace Blue Line trains between Franconia-Springfield and Reagan National Airport. Allow additional travel time.
• Trains every 20 minutes between Reagan National Airport and Largo Town Center with single tracking between Smithsonian and Federal Center SW.
• Franconia-Springfield, Van Dorn Street, King St-Old Town, and Braddock Road stations will be closed.

Yellow Line

• Shuttle buses replace Yellow Line trains between Huntington and National Airport. Allow additional travel time.
• Trains every 20 minutes between Reagan National Airport and Mt Vernon Square.
• Customers traveling to/from stations north of Mt Vernon Sq should use the Green Line to complete their trip
• Huntington, Eisenhower Avenue, King St-Old Town and Braddock Road stations will be closed

The City of Alexandria and Alexandria Renew Enterprises (AlexRenew) have announced that the Commonwealth of Virginia plans to provide $25 million toward the “RiverRenew” community megaproject to remediate Alexandria’s combined sewer system. The General Assembly adopted the allocation as part of the state budget amendments for Fiscal Year 2020, which will be sent to the Governor for signature next month. The Governor had already included the funding in his budget proposal.

“We are grateful to all our state leaders for supporting Alexandria’s aggressive efforts to improve the quality of local waterways,” said Mayor Justin Wilson. “We thank Gov. Northam for including this key funding in his budget proposal. This funding would also not have been possible without outstanding advocacy from Sen. Richard Saslaw, Sen. George Barker, Sen. Adam Ebbin, Del. Mark Sickles, Del. Charniele Herring, and Del. Mark Levine, and support from Senate Finance Committee Co-Chairs Sen. Thomas Norment and Sen. Emmett Hanger and House Appropriations Committee Chairman Del. Chris Jones. We appreciate the recognition by the Governor and General Assembly that the Commonwealth should do its part to help upgrade Alexandria’s combined sewers, just as it has in other Virginia communities with the same type of infrastructure.”

The budget appropriation will authorize $25 million for the Virginia Resources Authority and the State Water Control Board to make a grant to the City to pay a portion of the capital costs of the remediation effort. During 2018, the City transferred ownership of Alexandria’s four combined sewer outfalls to AlexRenew, Alexandria’s independent wastewater authority. The City will continue to work closely with AlexRenew to incorporate state funding in compliance with the 2017 state law requiring that work on the outfalls be completed by July 1, 2025. The project
is expected to cost between $370 million and $555 million, and will be primarily funded through increased sewer fees paid by Alexandria residents and businesses.

“RiverRenew is a substantial financial investment in healthier waterways for Alexandria,” said John Hill, chairman of the AlexRenew board of directors. “We appreciate that the Commonwealth partners with localities on large infrastructure programs such as RiverRenew, and we are grateful to our state leaders for their support of this program to improve the City’s legacy sewer system. State support will help offset the financial impact this project will have on our customers.”

The remediation plan calls for construction of a tunnel and other improvements that would transport sewage and stormwater flows from all four combined sewer outfalls to AlexRenew’s Water Resources Recovery Facility. Combined sewer flows would be fully treated at the Facility until it reaches capacity, at which point the excess flow would receive initial treatment and disinfection and the remaining flows would be stored until they can be treated. Combined sewer overflows into local waterways would be significantly reduced and only occur a few times a year during extreme storm events when flows exceed the combined capacity of the entire system.

While 95 percent of Alexandria is served by separate sewer systems for stormwater and sewage, the remaining 5 percent is served by a combined sewer system. When too much rain flows into the combined collection system, it overflows into local waterways at four permitted outfalls. Alexandria has one of the earliest combined sewer systems in the country, dating back to the early 1800s. More than 800 cities nationwide have similar systems, including neighboring outfalls that overflow into the Potomac River. Remediation projects require the planning, design, and construction
of massive infrastructure projects to significantly reduce sewer overflows.

For more information about the combined sewer system remediation projects, visit alexandriava.gov/CleanWaterways.

Via the listing

This 2565 square foot condo home has 3 bedrooms and 5.0 bathrooms. It is located at 2151 Jamieson Ave Alexandria, Virginia.

Contact the realtor at this link for more information about this property.

The Alexandria Health Department and Alexandria Public Health Advisory Commission are now accepting nominations for the 2019 Flora Krause Casey Public Health Award. The annual award recognizes an individual or group who has made a significant impact on public health and well-being (including physical, behavioral, mental or oral health) within the City of Alexandria. Nominations must be received by March 14.

The award is named for Flora Krause Casey, a longtime Alexandria resident and dedicated advocate for the health of disadvantaged people. In the late 1930s, she assumed responsibility for a clinic formed by the Kiwanis Club to provide pre-camp physical exams. After two years, Casey realized that poorer families needed access to medical services and a comprehensive clinic that could provide that level of care. She fostered the new clinic’s growth as the community’s needs expanded. The Public Health Advisory Commission and Alexandria Health Department honor her legacy by seeking and recognizing individuals with a similar purpose, devotion, community advocacy, and leadership.

To submit a nomination, nominators must complete an online application and submit two letters of support by the deadline.

For more information about the Flora Krause Casey Public Health Award and how to apply or nominate someone, visit alexandriava.gov/Health.

The City of Alexandria, Virginia has issued assessments for all 46,171 parcels of real property citywide, reflecting stable to moderate increases in value across nearly all residential and commercial property types. Assessment details are available online and have been mailed to all property owners. The overall value of Alexandria’s taxable property increased 2.71 percent compared to January 2018, although each individual property’s value may have increased, decreased or remained unchanged. Assessment notices, representing fair market values as of January 1, have been mailed to property owners and are available online. The tax base increased by approximately $1.3 billion, including $960 million in appreciation of existing properties and $344 million in new development or improvements.

For the first time in several years, the value of commercial properties increased by a greater percentage than residential. The commercial tax base increased 3.58 percent, compared to an increase of less than 1 percent in 2018. Increases in nearly all commercial property types contributed to the overall increase. Multifamily rental development led the commercial growth, increasing by 4 percent. Commercial properties, including multifamily apartments, comprises 43 percent of the tax base.

The residential tax base increased by 2.04 percent overall. The average assessment for all residential property types, including single family homes, townhomes, and condominiums, increased 1.91 percent, to $555,002. The average single-family home value increased 1.36 percent, to $764,596. The average condominium value increased by 3.3 percent, to $329,216.

As required by state law, the City assesses all properties at 100 percent of their fair market value as of January 1 of each year. The 2019 assessments will be used to apply the real estate tax rate to be set by City Council on May 1, with payments due on June 17 and November 15. Residential assessments are based primarily on neighborhood sales of comparable properties in 2018. Commercial assessments are based on sales of similar properties, income and expense data related to the property type and other economic factors.

To research property and sales data, tax payment history, and parcel maps, or for information about the real estate assessment, review, and appeal process, visit alexandriava.gov/RealEstate or call the Office of Real Estate Assessments at 703.746.4646.

For information about the process to develop the City’s budget and tax rates, including opportunities for community input, visit alexandriava.gov/Budget or call the Office of Management and Budget at 703.746.3737.

Months of advance planning, preparation, and training prior to the start of winter weather help the City to clear streets and sidewalks safely and effectively each snow season. During the winter months, City staff track potential storms 24 hours a day, and on-call City crews and contractors are available around the clock to perform snow and ice removal.

Here are some important facts to know about snow removal and winter weather emergencies in Alexandria, Virginia:

• In Alexandria, storms are designated with levels based on type and severity, from Level 1 (least severe) to Level 3 (most severe). Storm levels are updated on the City’s website as the weather changes.
• Roads are plowed by priority. Snow emergency routes are plowed first, followed by secondary routes, intermediate routes, and then residential streets. The City’s SnowReport tracking system allows residents to view plowing priorities, check the status of individual streets, and submit concerns.
• Clearing sidewalks, driveways, and entrances is the responsibility of the adjacent property owner, occupant, community association, or business. Time limits are determined by the storm level: Level 1 = 24 hours, Level 2 = 48 hours, Level 3 = 72 hours.
• The City pretreats roads with brine in advance when low temperatures or precipitation are possible but rain is not expected. This preventative anti-icing measure, along with the City’s usual snow and ice prevention and removal techniques, helps keep roads safer.

Residents and customers are asked to do the following to help snow crews and emergency responders during winter storms and other weather emergencies:

• Stay off the roads in the event of snow or ice
• Don’t park on snow emergency routes
• Keep shovels, and salt or sand handy
• Prepare an emergency kit and have an emergency plan in place  
• Clear ice, snow, and leaves from around fire hydrants and storm drains, and avoid shoveling snow into the street

For more information about preparing for winter emergencies and the City’s winter weather plans, visit alexandriava.gov/Snow.

On Monday, November 26, Metro will begin a 14-day capital improvement project (10 commuting days) on the Yellow Line Bridge over the Potomac River. The project, announced in February, is Metro’s fourth and final major capital improvement project of 2018.

Customers are reminded there will be no Yellow Line service from Monday, November 26 through Sunday, December 9, as crews make structural repairs and infrastructure upgrades on the bridge. Yellow Line customers should use the Blue Line for alternate service between Virginia and DC.

Due to the heavy construction activity and limited space available on the bridge span, both tracks must be out of service for safety reasons. This approach also allows crews to complete the work faster, working around the clock to pour new concrete grout pads, replace fasteners, cables and other components.

Metro will operate Blue Line trains between Franconia-Springfield and Largo Town Center every 16 minutes and between Huntington and Largo Town Center every 16 minutes. Because this represents a 50 percent reduction in capacity, crowding is possible, and customers are encouraged to allow additional travel time.

Metro also will offer free shuttle bus options for Blue Line customers. Details are available at wmata.com/rebuild.

In DC, customers who normally take the Yellow Line should use the Green Line instead. For service to Virginia, transfer to the Blue Line at L’Enfant Plaza.

Rush Hour Promise will not be in effect for trips on the Yellow and Blue lines during this time but will remain in effect for customers on other lines.

For additional information, visit wmata.com/rebuild.

The City has worked to resolve issues as soon as possible when they involve City infrastructure.  However, many issues on private property are simply the result of too much rain. The City urges residents to take necessary precautions to prevent flooding and sewer backups when possible.

If untreated sewage discharges from the sanitary sewer system, report it immediately by calling 703.746.HELP (4357). Avoid contact with overflow discharges, and keep people and pets away.

DRAINAGE PROBLEMS

• Drainage problems may include roadway or structural flooding, clogged or failing underground pipes and culverts, stream bank erosion or stormwater pollution affecting a stream.
• Help prevent drainage problems by ensuring that gutters and downspouts are clear of debris, sump pumps are working properly, grading slopes away from homes and buildings, and outdoor driveway and stairwell drains are free of debris and possible blockages.
• If rainwater is draining from an adjacent property, call 703.746.HELP (4357) and a City inspector will investigate.

SEWER BACKUP

• Sewer backups can be caused by pipe failures; blockages (e.g., grease, rocks, sticks, toys); excessive flows that exceed system capacity (typically due to significant rainfall); damage by contractors; power or mechanical failures at sewer pump stations; and settlement or movement of the soil adjacent to the pipe.
• To prevent a sewage backup during a storm: 1) Install a backflow preventer and ensure that it is in working order and closed as necessary; 2) Stuff a rag, softball or other material into floor drains to stop the flow into basements; 3) Cover floor drains with mats and weigh them down; 4) Place a heavy object on the closed cover of basement toilets; 5) Restrict the use of plumbing as much as possible until rains subside, including dish and clothes washers, showers and toilets.
• Wear waterproof boots and gloves to prevent exposure to contaminated water. After the rain stops, if sewage has come through a floor or plumbing drain, open the drain to allow as much water to drain out as possible. Use buckets, a sump pump or other means to remove as much of the contaminated water as possible.
• If the backup occurs only when facilities (such as toilet, tub, washer or sinks) are used, a plumber may be needed. If sewage backs up when facilities are not in use, there may be a problem with the City’s sewer line.
• If an inspector determines that the City’s sewer line is operating normally and indications are that a private building sewer lateral is the cause of a sewer backup, the inspector will recommend contacting a plumber. Residents and businesses are responsible for backups caused in private sewer lines, and for the installation, maintenance and inspection of backwater valves. Check insurance policies to determine if damages related to sewage backups or water damages are covered. This type of coverage may be an optional coverage and can generally be added to a policy if requested. The cost for this optional coverage is inexpensive, and it is advised that property owners with below-grade fixtures investigate this coverage.

For more information about flooding, visit alexandriava.gov/Flooding.

The City of Alexandria, Virginia invites the community to learn more about City government through the upcoming City Academy, Senior Academy, Community Fire Academy, Community Police Academy, Community Sheriff’s Academy, and Community Commonwealth’s Attorney Academy.

These programs are designed to inform, educate and engage the community on how local government operates. The City, Senior, Fire, Police, and Sheriff’s programs will begin sessions in September. Applications are being accepted from July 10 to July 27. The next Commonwealth’s Attorney program will be in Spring 2019.

• The Alexandria City Academy teaches participants about general government operations and departments through a combination of classroom and hands-on experiences.
• The Alexandria Senior Academy, a partnership between the City and Senior Services of Alexandria, gives seniors (ages 60 and up) exposure to the City’s government functions and provides education on local organizations that provide services and programs to seniors.
• The Alexandria Community Fire Academy educates community members about fire safety and emergency medical response, as well as the history, administration, operations, and apparatus of an urban public safety agency.
• The Alexandria Community Police Academy provides an opportunity for residents to learn about various aspects of the Police Department, such as administrative philosophy, internal policies and the guiding principles of law and ethical conduct governing the delivery of police services.
• NEW – The Alexandria Community Sheriff’s Academy will explore the role of the Sheriff’s Office in Alexandria’s criminal justice system, learn about local corrections and discover how the Sheriff’s Office enhances public safety through a variety of specialized services and outreach programs.
• The Alexandria Community Commonwealth’s Attorney Academy will offer an in-depth look at how criminal offenses are prosecuted in the City by the Commonwealth Attorney’s office. The program will resume in Spring 2019.

These programs are open to Alexandria residents, Alexandria business owners, and City employees. A graduation ceremony will be held at the end of each academy program session.

Class sizes are limited. For more information, including deadlines and application forms, visit alexandriava.gov/Academies.

The City of Alexandria is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, as amended. To request a reasonable accommodation, email elaine.scott@alexandriava.gov  or call 703.746.4317 or Virginia Relay 711.

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) issued U.S. patent number 10 million on June 19, 2018. More than just a number, patent 10 million celebrates the rich history and strength of the American intellectual property system dating back to the first U.S. patent, signed 228 years ago by George Washington on July 31, 1790, and issued to Samuel Hopkins for a process of making potash, an ingredient used in fertilizer.

“Innovation has been the lifeblood of this country since its founding,” said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. “Our patent system’s importance to the daily lives of every American has never been greater. Given the rapid pace of change, we know that it will not take another 228 years to achieve the next 10-million-patent milestone.”

Patent 10 million for “Coherent Ladar Using Intra-Pixel Quadrature Detection” symbolizes the breadth of American invention, with applications in such varied fields as autonomous vehicles, medical imaging devices, military defense systems, and space and undersea exploration. It was invented by Joseph Marron and is owned by Raytheon Company. Additional information on patent 10 million can be found at: https://10millionpatents.uspto.gov/docs/patent10million.pdf.

“This patent represents one of ten million steps on a continuum of human accomplishment launched when our Founding Fathers provided for intellectual property protection in our Constitution,” said Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office Andrei Iancu. “Some of the greatest leaps humanity has made have been fueled by our greatest inventors, Americans who have changed the course of history with their brilliance and dogged perseverance.”

As part of the celebration, the USPTO has displayed a number of patents leading from the Duke Street Pedestrian Concourse to the the National Inventors Hall of Fame at the USPTO.

POOL WEATHER POLICY

The pool staff reserves the right to close the outdoor pools due to inclement weather when low attendance is expected. The pools are closed for 30 minutes any time lightning is seen or thunder is heard. The 30-minute closing period begins again each time lightning or thunder occurs.

As a reminder, please make sure that your bicycle is properly secured (Kryptonite locks are recommended); your bicycle is registered with the Management Office; and that you maintain current bicycle records in the event of a theft.

Please be conscious of anyone accessing the garage by foot when you are entering or exiting the garage. If you witness someone entering the garage in that manner, please contact the desk immediately – any description you can give of the individual will be helpful.

If you notice unusual activity around the property, you are also encouraged to contact the police. The non-emergency number is (703) 838-4444.

As a precautionary measure, Management Aides will perform additional and thorough patrols of the garages until further notice.

The City of Alexandria has been a leader in the field of historic preservation, from the creation of the country’s third oldest historic district in 1946 to the start of Alexandria Archaeology in 1961.

May is Preservation Month, a time when communities across the country celebrate historic preservation locally.  The City of Alexandria, Virginia is hosting a series of events to highlight Alexandria’s historic preservation initiatives whether you want to hear experts on a panel, learn about hands-on preservation practices, tour a site or have a drink with other preservationists.  For more details and a list of other Historic Preservation Month Events, please visit alexandriava.gov/90900.

Special Access Tour of the Murray-Dick-Fawcett House and Happy Hour
Thursday, May 10, 5:30-7:30 p.m.,
517 Prince St.
Fee: $10 donation requested, cash bar
Enjoy touring this 18th-century house, recently purchased and now owned and operated by the City of Alexandria.  After the tour, stop by a happy hour in the garden to catch up with other preservationists.

Advance registration recommended at alexandriava.gov/Shop.

Attics and Alleys Tours
Every Saturday in May
What mysteries lie in the attics of the city’s historic sites? Ever wonder what is behind that brick wall? In honor of National Preservation Month, explore spaces not normally open to the public at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, Carlyle House, Lee-Fendall, and the Apothecary Museum. Tour highlights include historic graffiti, hidden architectural fragments, and alleys that connect the city.

Tour begins promptly at 9am at Lee-Fendall House, 614 Oronoco Street; tour ends at Carlyle House by the Market Square parking garage around 11:30 a.m.
This tour includes walking over many city blocks, stairs, and access to confined spaces. Walking shoes required, bottled water suggested.

Held rain or shine. Tickets can be purchased at alexandriava.gov/Shop. No tickets will be sold at the door. All Sales are Final.

This series of events is sponsored by the Office of Historic Alexandria, Alexandria Department of Planning & Zoning, and Northern Virginia Conservation Trust.  Collaboration partners for Preservation Month include: The Northern Virginia Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, Alexandria Library Special Collections, Alexandria Association, Alexandria Historical Society, Carlyle House, Lee-Fendall House, Alexandria Archaeological Commission, the Alexandria Historical Restoration and Preservation Commission, the Boards of Architectural Review, and Historic Alexandria Resources Commission.

Please check alexandriava.gov/Shop for event information and to register, as some events have limited numbers and fees vary.  For more information, visit alexandriava.gov/Historic.

The Open House will provide an up-close, hands-on look at T&ES operations, which include  City refuse collection, street cleaning, sewer maintenance, recycling, water quality, traffic engineering, and transit services. This family-friendly event will allow residents to learn about important City services and meet staff who help keep Alexandria mobile, clean, safe and eco-friendly. In keeping with the goals of the Eco-City Alexandria initiative, this event will promote environmental education and a green and sustainable future.

Activities will include:

• Touch-a-Truck – Climb inside City trucks and learn what it’s like to drive them safely around Alexandria from the people who operate them.

• Children’s Traffic Garden – A replica of a City street—complete with bike lanes and a miniature working stoplight—will be used to highlight the City’s Vision Zero initiative and the importance of pedestrian safety while teaching children to be aware, alert and attentive when crossing the street.

• Composting Station – Drop off your weekly compost donation and learn more about the city’s composting efforts.

• Informational Tables – Representatives from GO Alex, DASH, Capital Bikeshare, Vision Zero, and Eco-City Clean Waterways will be on hand to talk about these programs and initiatives.

The theme of this year’s National Public Works Week is “The Power of Public Works,” which highlights the many ways public works services — such as disposing of solid waste, implementing mass transit, and providing clean water — determine a society’s quality of life.

For more information about the Open House, visit this link. For more community events, visit our community events calendar.

• Away for personal business, work, vacation, active military service or at school.
• Working and commuting for 11 or more hours, between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m., on Election Day. Account for those days when traffic is heavy or the weather is bad and it takes longer than usual to get to and from work.
• Physically unable to go to the polls because of an illness or disability.
• A caregiver for a confined family member.
• A “first responder” (firefighter, law enforcement, emergency medical technician, search and rescue).

To learn more about these, and other circumstances in which absentee voting is available, visit the City’s Elections page, or call 703.746.4050.

Absentee Voting in Person

The deadline for casting an absentee ballot in person is Saturday, June 9, at 5 p.m. In-person absentee voting takes place at the Office of Voter Registration and Elections (132 N. Royal St., Suite 100) during the following hours:

Regular Hours:

• Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed Monday, May 28)

Extended hours:

• Tuesday, May 29, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Saturday, June 2, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Tuesday, June 5, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Wednesday, June 6, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Thursday, June 7, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Saturday, June 9, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Absentee Voting by Mail

The deadline to apply for an absentee ballot by mail is Tuesday, June 5. Applications must be received in the Voter Registration Office by 5 p.m. on that day.

Voters may submit absentee ballot applications online at vote.elections.virginia.gov. They may also get a paper application on the City’s Elections page, or by calling the Alexandria Voter Registration Office at 703.746.4050.

These absentee ballots must be received by the Voter Registration Office no later than 7 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, June 12. Ballots may be returned by mail or delivered personally by the voter to the Voter Registration Office, located at 132 N. Royal St.

What’s on the Ballot?

In Alexandria, the June 12 Democratic Primary is to nominate Democratic candidates for Alexandria Mayor and City Council; the June 12 Republican Primary is to nominate a Republican candidate for U.S. Senate. All persons qualified to vote may request a ballot for either primary, however, they may not vote in both primaries (Virginia Code 24.2-530).

The voter registration deadline for this election, for those not already registered to vote at their current address, is May 21. You may submit or update your registration information online at vote.elections.virginia.gov. Any eligible U.S. citizen who will be 18 years old by November 6, 2018, is eligible to register and vote in these primaries.

For complete information on this election, including voter registration requirements, sample ballots, precinct maps and photo ID requirements, visit alexandriava.gov/Elections.

For more information, contact Anna Leider, General Registrar, Office of Voter Registration, at 703.746.4050.

Power washing of garages occurs on three (3) consecutive Saturdays to minimize disruption to residents.

• East Building – May 5
• West Building – May 12
• South Building – May 19

Carlyle Towers reminds residents to please observe project-related closures in the garage; vehicles remaining in these areas after closure are subject to fines.

Please see the below schedule:

• TUESDAY, APRIL 24: FILL 3rd & 4th FLOOR GARAGE SPRINKLER SYSTEM WITH WATER BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 9AM-5PM.
• WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25: HIGH PRESSURIZED FLUSHING OF 3RD & 4TH FLOOR GARAGE SPRINKLER SYSTEM AND REPLACEMENT OF SPRINKLER HEADS BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 9AM-5PM.
• IF NECESSARY, THURSDAY, APRIL 26 WILL SERVE AS A DAY TO REPAIR ANY UNFORESEEN LEAKS.

Due to the complexity of this project, unfortunately, these repairs will impact many residents who park on the aforementioned floors. Therefore, in order to eliminate the possibility of damage to your vehicle while this work is in progress,

ALL VEHICLES PARKED IN THE BELOW SPACES MUST BE REMOVED:

3rd Floor Parking Spaces:

• South Building: 3-69 through 3-140
• West Building: 3-141 through 3-189

4th Floor Parking Spaces:

• South Building: 4-27 through 4-46

As a courtesy, Management will allow residents to park their vehicles in the Guest Parking lot located behind the building. (Management will block off the entire rear lot for the purpose of this project). If you wish to park your vehicle in your parking space after 5pm on Tuesday, April 24, you must move your vehicle by 9am on Wednesday, April 25.

If spaces in the Guest Parking lot are not available, residents may park their vehicles at the Hoffman Parking Garage located on Mill Road.

The rates are as follows:

• 0-1 Hour – $1.50
• 1-2 Hours – $3.00
• 2-3 Hours – $4.50
• 3+ Hours – $7.00

*If you rent out a parking space, please notify the renter about this project.

* Please inform contractors (nurse aids, maid service, etc.) that rear guest parking will NOT be available Monday-Thursday. (They may park on the street instead).

*NO DELIVERIES OR MOVES are to be scheduled Monday-Thursday.

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Management at 703-567-2151.

Via the listing

Old Town pet friendly unit walking distance to King Street metro.Corner plan w/glass-enclosed balcony for home office or exercise room. Expansive bedroom w/sitting & Victorian style curved windows w/views of the courtyard, Masonic Temple & Old Town. Two custom walk-in closets, luxury bath w/double vanity, jetted tub & separate shower. Hardwood floors in living area. Reno’d kitchen w/SS appliances.

Contact the realtor at this link for more information about this property.

Whether you smoke yourself or have guests visiting your home who smoke, AFD urges you to follow these simple fire safety tips to reduce the risk of a smoking-related fire in your home or on your balcony or patio.

• Never smoke in bed. Mattresses and bedding can quickly catch fire. Do not smoke in bed, because you may also fall asleep with a lit cigarette.
• Smoke outside. Many items in your home can catch on fire easily if they touch something hot like a cigarette or ashes. It is always safer to smoke outside.
• If you smoke it, put it out all the way. Do this every time. Do not walk away from lit cigarettes and other smoking materials. Put water on the ashes and butts to make sure they are completely out before putting them in the trash.
• Put your smoking materials out in an ashtray or bucket with sand. While smoking outdoors is safer, make sure you properly extinguish smoking materials when outdoors or while on a balcony or patio area. Use ashtrays with a wide base that won’t tip over and start a fire. In multifamily buildings and apartment high rises, many people are at risk when a smoker fails to properly extinguish smoking materials.
• Never smoke around medical oxygen. Medical oxygen can explode if a flame or spark is near. Even if the oxygen is turned off, it can still catch on fire.
• Be alert. Do not smoke after taking medicine that makes you tired. You may not be able to prevent or escape from a fire if you are sleepy or have taken medicine that causes drowsiness.

Protect your home from fires by talking to your family about what you should do in case of a fire, and make a fire escape plan. Reduce the risk of fire by installing smoke detectors on every level of your home. Test your smoke alarms once a month to make sure they are all in working condition.

Via the listing

This beautiful, classic 3-lvl all-brick TH is 1 of 12 in Carlyle Towers community! Spacious rooms, 10+ ft main lvl ceilings, sparkling eat-in kit, 3 BRs +library/den, tons of storage. Private PATIO. 2 garage spcs, + storage. Resort living w/ concierge, huge pool & sauna, 2 gyms, tennis courts. Garage w/ opener. Walk to King Street Metro, Whole Foods, coffee shops and restaurants!

Contact the realtor at this link for more information about this property.

This family-friendly event includes the eighth annual Upcycling Showcase, where students from Alexandria City Public Schools will present unique fashion items and other upcycling creations based on the event theme, “Local Action, Global Impact.”

Other activities include:

• “Tent Talks,” featuring topics such as renewable energy, climate and health, preserving regional diversity through local conservation, bee conservation and updating the City’s Environmental Action Plan
• The 10th annual Ellen Pickering Environmental Excellence Award presentation
• Live demonstrations of composting, rainwater harvesting, and recycling
• Live music by The Chromatics, a local a cappella group
• More than 60 environmental exhibitors
• Giveaways and vehicle displays
• A GreenDrop truck accepting donations of used clothing

In keeping with the goals of the Eco-City Alexandria initiative, the purpose of Alexandria Earth Day is to promote environmental education, engage the public about Alexandria’s environmental issues and plans, and lead the community toward a green and sustainable future.

The public is encouraged to take public transit, walk or bike to the event. DASH will offer free rides to and from the event, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visit alexandriava.gov/EarthDay for a pass to ride DASH to the event. The pass can be printed or displayed via cellphone and shown to DASH drivers.

• For DASH bus route and schedule information, visit dashbus.com or call 703.370.DASH.
• For Metrorail and Metrobus schedule information, visit wmata.com or call 202.637.7000.

For the first time this year, bicyclists will have the opportunity to take one of five different Bike Trains (organized group rides) to the Earth Day event. Visit alexandriava.gov/EarthDay to sign up for a Bike Train.

• Bicyclists may visit alexandriava.gov/GOAlex for the City’s Bikeways Map, which features Alexandria’s best on-street and off-road bikeways.
• Parking is available in the George Washington Middle School parking lot, adjacent to the Lenny Harris Memorial Fields.

In case of inclement weather, the event will be relocated to George Washington Middle School, 1005 Mount Vernon Ave.

For more information, visit alexandriava.gov/EarthDay or call the Special Events Hotline at 703.746.5592.

The City will also send an Alexandria eNews alert notification for a test tornado warning. This message will prompt recipients to take the necessary actions needed during an actual tornado. If widespread severe weather threatens Virginia on March 20, the drill will be rescheduled for Wednesday, March 21, at 9:45 a.m.

Sponsored by the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, the Statewide Tornado Drill is a yearly opportunity to prepare Virginians for tornado emergencies and to test public warning systems.

Residents and businesses are encouraged to be ready for tornadoes and other spring storms by registering to participate in the drill, going over their emergency preparedness plans and reviewing the following tornado preparedness information.

Tornado Preparedness Information and Tips

Know the difference between a Tornado Watch and a Tornado Warning:

• Tornado Watch: Be Prepared! Tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. Review and discuss your emergency plans, check supplies and your safe room. You will need to move quickly if a warning is issued or you suspect a tornado is approaching.
• Tornado Warning: Take Action! A tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar. There is imminent danger to life and property.

If a Tornado Warning is announced, take the following actions.

If you are in a building

• Go into a windowless interior room, closet or hallway on the lowest floor possible.
• Stay away from corners, windows, doors, and outside walls. Go to the center of the room.
• If you are in a high-rise building, you may not have time to get to the lowest floor. Pick a place in a hallway in the center of the building and put your arms and hands over your head.
• If you use a motorized scooter or wheelchair, find a location in a hallway in the center of the building and put your arms and hands over your head for protection.
• If there is no time to find a safe location, get under a table or desk and put your arms and hands over your head.

If you are outdoors or in a car

• Get out of your vehicle and try to find shelter inside a sturdy building.
• Do not get under a bridge or overpass. You are safer in a low, flat location.
• If you are caught up in high winds with flying debris, stay in your vehicle, leave your seatbelt on and put your head down below the windshield with your hands over your head.
• Find a culvert or ditch nearby, lie down flat and cover your head with your hands.

For additional information about the Statewide Tornado Drill and to register, visit the Virginia Department of Emergency Management. For more information about emergency preparedness, visit alexandriava.gov/Emergency. For information about tornadoes, visit alexandriava.gov/Tornado.

The City’s Waterfront Small Area Plan calls for a network of pedestrian and bicycle paths to provide continuous public waterfront access from Oronoco Bay Park to Jones Point Park.  The new park will be the keystone in this vision, establishing prime public access in the heart of the Waterfront.

The project will replace the former Old Dominion Boat Club building and parking lot, and the current King Street Park, with an interim park that will include a river terrace, flexible plaza, lawn and waterfront promenade. This new space, scheduled to open in fall 2018, will provide the community with a flexible gathering space for daily use and seasonal special activities.

The construction of the interim King Street Park at the Waterfront launches Phase I of the landscape and flood mitigation plan approved in 2014 by City Council. The Waterfront Small Area Plan, approved by City Council in 2012, is a 30-year vision to revitalize Alexandria’s Waterfront through expanded access to open space and increased promotion as a local and regional arts and cultural destination.

For more information about the groundbreaking ceremony and the interim park, visit the King Street Park at the Waterfront webpage.

Via the listing

Open concept to enjoy view of Masonic Temple! Custom kitchen overlooks living space! Stunning tile back splash, ceramic floor, soft close drawers, Microwave drawer, under cabinet lighting, touch faucet and lap top plug in. Sun room boasts view of DC skyline! 5 min. walk or shuttle to King Street Metro. Amazing Amenities! Blocks to Whole Foods. Take King Street Trolley to Old Town waterfront!

Contact the realtor at this link for more information about this property.

Change in the residential tax base was largely due to appreciation of existing properties, while the commercial tax base was strengthened by the appreciation of multifamily and warehouse properties.  The commercial tax base includes multifamily commercial properties (apartments), office buildings, hotels, and shopping centers, with office buildings representing nearly 30 percent of the commercial base value. Compared to January 2017, the commercial tax base is increasing 0.93 percent.

The 2018 commercial tax base increase is primarily attributed to increased values in warehouse properties. Multifamily rental property, which led the commercial market for the past several years, increased 7.68 percent.

Residential assessments grew moderately across nearly all classifications of property. In total, the City’s residential tax base increased by 3.40 percent. The average assessment for all residential property types, including single family homes, townhomes, and condominiums, has increased 3.33 percent, to $547,626.  The average single-family home value has increased by 3.40 percent, to $752,585. The average condominium value has increased 3.15 percent, to $324,024.

As required by state law, the City assesses all properties at 100 percent of their fair market value as of January 1 of each year. The 2018 assessments will be used to apply the real estate tax rate to be set by City Council on May 3, with payments due on June 15 and November 15. Residential assessments are based primarily on neighborhood sales of comparable properties in 2017. Commercial assessments are based on sales of similar properties, income and expense data related to the property type and other economic factors.

To research property and sales data, tax payment history, and parcel maps, or for information about the real estate assessment, review, and appeal process, visit alexandriava.gov/RealEstate or call the Office of Real Estate Assessments at 703.746.4646.

For information about the process to develop the City’s budget and tax rates, including opportunities for community input, visit alexandriava.gov/Budget or call the Office of Management and Budget at 703.746.3737.

On December 16, the Alexandria City Council voted unanimously to adopt the Vision Zero Action Plan, a guidance document that will help the City achieve its goal of eliminating all traffic deaths and serious injuries by 2028.

City Council adopted the Vision Zero international traffic safety concept in January 2017. As the first Vision Zero community in Northern Virginia, Alexandria recognizes that traffic injuries and fatalities are preventable through proper engineering, enforcement, evaluation and education.

“The adoption of the Vision Zero Action Plan affirms the City’s commitment to making our streets safer and moves Alexandria one step closer to zero traffic deaths and serious injuries,” said Mayor Allison Silberberg. “Public safety is a top priority for our city.”

More than 1,000 residents, visitors, business owners and employees participated in the Vision Zero Action Plan drafting process and provided feedback on the challenges of safely moving around Alexandria. The adopted plan highlights priority action items that will be a major focus during the first two years of Vision Zero implementation. These items include the creation of a public crash and safety data dashboard that will allow community members to track progress, an accelerated timeline for Safe Routes to School engineering recommendations, and significantly increased traffic safety enforcement on city roadways with higher speeds.

The plan also outlines priority engineering improvements the City will undertake during the first year of Vision Zero implementation, including new pedestrian signals, road markings, signs, curb ramps, and speed limit changes.

The public will be able to track the City’s progress both through a crash dashboard and a public work plan, which provides a detailed outline of the steps staff will take to implement the action plan.

For more information about the final plan, crash dashboard, action items, engineering priorities and work plan, visit alexandriava.gov/VisionZero.

First Night Alexandria has twenty-six performance venues, as well as the Fun Hunt and children’s activities in the afternoon. All these locations need volunteers. They also need help from those who are familiar with iPads (or equivalent tablets) to help us manage our admission badge sales. New Year’s Eve volunteers generally serve in pairs and there are five three-hour shifts throughout the day.

All our volunteers receive free admission, a box dinner, and a First Night apron they can keep. There is plenty of time to enjoy performances and see the fabulous finale at midnight—fireworks on the Potomac!

For information and to volunteer, please visit this link.

Via the listing

NEW PRICE! Walk score 81! Luxurious living at Carlyle Towers in one of the exclusive 14 townhomes with over 1,880 sq ft. Soaring ceilings on the main to include-Foyer, LR, DR, Kit with granite & extra cabinets. Largest patio backing to green space. 3BR, 2.5 BA plus open den.1 car gar pkg. Pools, gyms, sauna, tennis, 24 hour security, dog area. Blocks to King St Metro, movies, shops & restaurants!

Contact the realtor at this link for more information about this property.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for the City of Alexandria, Virginia through 9 pm today (Saturday, December 9, 2017). Forecasts call for a snow accumulation of up to 2-4 inches. Hazardous travel conditions are expected due to the snow and ice; residents are urged to use caution while traveling today.

City crews have been working throughout the City applying salt and will continue to monitor the weather and road conditions. For more information, visit alexandriava.gov/snow.

Located at 3640 Wheeler Ave, ezStorage Alexandria facility is staffed with friendly and helpful storage professionals ready to provide the best storage experience around. Storage unit sizes range from smaller sized 5′ x 5′ units and lockers to larger sized 10′ x 30′ units for whole household or commercial storage needs. Our Alexandria, Virginia location also includes state-of-the-art security features, with individually-alarmed units that are monitored 24/7, as well all storage units are indoors providing a controlled climate for added peace of mind.

This facility offers extended gate hours from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM seven days a week. Units are also accessible after hours through use of an individual code, which provides an additional level of security and ensures ezStorage knows who has been in the facility.

For more information, visit this link.

Via the listing

Absolutely Gorgeous! This remodeled home is the perfect retreat from city life. Numerous upgrades incl: wood floors, granite counters, upgraded appliances (incl W/D), stunning marble bath, professional closets, etc. Open floorplan & kitchen create a light, bright, welcoming home. Enjoy gorgeous sunsets, pool, 2 gyms, tennis, 24-hr security & walk to 2 Metros, Whole Foods, shops, restaurants, etc.

Contact the realtor at this link for more information about this property.

We don’t love seeing the sun go down at 5:00 p.m. though.

The Alexandria Fire Department wants to remind you that two-thirds of home fire deaths result from fires in homes without a working smoking alarm, according to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA). Having working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a home fire in half.

Here are some useful fire safety tips.

• Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of your home, as well as inside of all sleeping areas.
• You should test your smoke alarms every month.
• You should lightly dust or vacuum your smoke alarm after each test.
• The entire smoke alarm should be replaced every 8-10 years.
• Your family should plan and practice a home escape plan during your smoke alarm testing routine.
• There should be a smoke alarm on every level of your home.
• You should place a smoke alarm in each bedroom.
• You should not install smoke alarms near fireplaces or wood stoves or in the kitchen; they tend to false alarm more frequently in those areas.
• Install smoke alarms at least three feet away from any air return or air vent.
• If you have to install your smoke alarm on a wall, it should be placed four to 12 inches below the ceiling.

Open House Sunday October 22, 2017 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Via the listing

Delightful, pristine 2 BR, 2 BA w/ open floor plan. Upgraded baths w/ quartz vanity tops and lever faucets, new sinks. wood floors. Good counter space in kitchen. Front loading washer and dryer.

Contact the realtor at this link for more information about this property.

Second half real estate tax and refuse fee payments are due Wednesday, November 15. In accordance with City Code, late payment penalty and interest will be assessed on all real estate taxes and refuse fees that are not paid or postmarked by the due date. The late payment penalty is five percent of the tax if paid by November 30, 2017, and 10 percent of the tax if paid on or after December 1, 2017, or $10, whichever is greater. The late payment penalty is 10 percent of the refuse fee. Interest accrues at an annual rate of 10 percent for the first year and five percent for each year thereafter, beginning November 16, 2017, and continues until the entire outstanding balance is paid.

Beginning with service provided from July 1, 2017, the City’s annual residential refuse fee increased from $363 to $373 in order to recover 100 percent of the City’s cost of collecting and disposing of household refuse. The second half 2017 real estate tax bill shows a $5 increase. Households that do not receive service from the City are not charged this fee. Residents with questions about the refuse fee can contact the City’s Resource Recovery Division at 703.746.4410.

In May 2017, City Council adopted a new stormwater utility fee to be applied to all residential and non-residential property to pay for costly new federal and state Chesapeake Bay protection mandates. This fee will fund stormwater management more equitably than by raising the real estate tax, since a fee shifts stormwater management costs to the properties with greater impact on stormwater runoff. In May 2018, all property owners will be billed for half of the 2017-2018 fee as a separate line item on the real estate tax bill. Starting in October 2018, half the annual fee will be billed in October and the other half in May. Beginning in December 2017, non-residential property owners will be able to lower their fees through stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs) and detention facilities, and by performing certain volunteer activities. A similar program for residential property owners will be developed in 2018.

For more information, please visit www.alexandriava.gov/Stormwater or contact the Stormwater Management Division at stormwater@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.4014.

The Code of Virginia does not allow for waiver of tax, penalty, or interest due to inability to pay or failure to receive a tax bill. Property owners who do not receive a real estate tax bill in the mail and do not have their real estate taxes paid by their mortgage companies should contact the City’s Treasury Division at payments@alexandriava.gov, or call 703.746.3902, Option 8, to request a bill before November 15. Detailed real estate tax balances and payment history are available 24 hours a day on the City’s website at realestate.alexandriava.gov. Property owners who changed their mailing address but did not previously report this change to the City can update their address by contacting the Real Estate Assessor’s Office at realestate@alexandriava.gov to ensure that future bills and correspondence are mailed to the correct address.

Additional information on real estate tax is available on the Finance Department website at alexandriava.gov/RealEstateTax. Information on real estate assessments, appeals, or updating the property owner’s mailing address is available from the Real Estate Assessor’s Office at alexandriava.gov/RealEstate. Information on payments, late payment penalty, and interest can be obtained through the Alexandria Tax Guide atalexandriava.gov/TaxGuide or by contacting the Treasury Division.

The improved times were announced by the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) during its most recent round of service changes, which are part of its larger “Back 2 Good” campaign to improve the reliability of Metrorail and Metrobus service throughout the region. WMATA has attributed improved reliability to newer equipment, fewer offloads, fewer unexpected stops resulting from track problems, and new schedules. Increased ridership will reduce traffic congestion and provide additional WMATA fare revenue to maintain system reliability.

The Blue Line and Yellow Line wait times are of particular relevance to Alexandria customers, since those two lines exclusively serve the city’s four Metrorail stations: Braddock Road (Blue,Yellow), King Street-Old Town (Blue,Yellow), Van Dorn Street (Blue), and Eisenhower Avenue (Yellow).

“The improved rush-hour wait times on the Blue Line are good news for those who live and work in our community, as well as the many people who visit Alexandria every day,” said Alexandria City Councilman and WMATA Board Member Paul C. Smedberg. “We look forward to seeing additional service-time improvements on Metrorail, and will continue to help spread the word about changes.”

For more information about Back 2 Blue, Metrorail improvements affecting Alexandria residents and customers, and transit resources available to City residents, visit this link.

The deadline to register to vote in Virginia’s November 7 General Election is Monday, October 16. In Alexandria, the November ballot includes contests for Governor, Lt. Governor, Attorney General, House of Delegates (45th or 46th District), Commonwealth’s Attorney and Sheriff.

Checking Registration

If you have recently moved or updated your registration since the last time you voted, please make sure you are registered at your current address. You may check your registration at https://vote.elections.virginia.gov or by contacting voters@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.4050.

New Registrations

The following voter registration methods are available to U.S. citizens living in Virginia who will be 18 or older by November 7, 2017:

• Submit the application online at https://vote.elections.virginia.gov by midnight on October 16.
• Register in person at the Office of Voter Registration and Elections, 132 North Royal St., Suite 100, by 5 p.m. on October 16.
• Download an application at www.alexandriava.gov/Elections and then print, sign and mail the completed form to the Office of Voter Registration and Elections, 132 North Royal St., Suite 100, Alexandria, VA 22314. Applications must be postmarked on or before October 16.

Address Updates

The same deadlines are in effect for Virginia voters who are registered, but have moved within the City of Alexandria or within Virginia. Voters who do not update their registration records before the deadline are at risk of being ineligible to vote in this election.

Virginia registered voters who need to update their addresses may do so using any of the methods listed above, or by completing a new voter registration application and faxing it to the Office of Voter Registration and Elections at 703.838.6449 by 5 p.m. on October 16.

Voter information letters for new or transferred registrants will be mailed within one week of the registration date.

Absentee Voting and Other Election Information

Virginians who are registered to vote must show photo identification when voting. Check www.alexandriava.gov/Elections or call 703.746.4050 for a list of acceptable photo ID and other election information, including sample ballots and in-person absentee voting hours.

In-person absentee voting for this election continues until 5 p.m. on Saturday, November 4.

For more information, contact Anna Leider, General Registrar, Office of Voter Registration at 703.746.4050.

• Away for personal business, work, vacation, active military service or school.
• Working and commuting for 11 or more hours, between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m., on Election Day. Account for those days when traffic is heavy, or the weather is bad and it takes longer than usual to get to and from work.
• Physically unable to go to the polls because of an illness or disability.
• A caregiver for a confined family member.
• A “first responder” (firefighter, law enforcement, emergency medical technician, search and rescue).

To learn more about these and other circumstances in which absentee voting is available, visit www.alexandriava.gov/Elections and click “Absentee Voting,” or call 703.746.4050.

Absentee Voting in Person

The deadline for voting absentee in person is Saturday, November 4, at 5 p.m.  In-person absentee voting hours and locations are as follows:

Office of Voter Registrations and Elections, 132 N. Royal St., Suite 100
Opens for absentee voting on Friday, September 22

Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed October 9)

Extended hours:
Saturday, October 21           8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday, October 28           8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Monday, October 30            8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Tuesday, October 31            8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Wednesday, November 1     8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Thursday, November 2        8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Saturday, November 4         8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library, 5005 Duke St.
Opens for absentee voting on Saturday, October 28

Saturday, October 28           10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Monday, October 30            1 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Tuesday, October 31            1 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Wednesday, November 1     1 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Thursday, November 2        1 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Friday, November 3             1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday, November 4         10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Absentee Voting by Mail

The deadline to apply for an absentee ballot by mail is Tuesday, October 31. Applications must be received in the Voter Registration Office by 5 p.m. on that day.

Voters may submit absentee ballot applications online at https://vote.elections.virginia.gov. They may also get a paper application at alexandriava.gov/Elections, or by contacting the Alexandria Voter Registration Office at 703.746.4050.

These absentee ballots must be received by the Voter Registration Office no later than 7 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, November 7. Ballots may be returned by mail or delivered personally by the voter to the Voter Registration Office, located at 132 N. Royal St.

What’s on the Ballot?

In Alexandria, the November 7 ballot includes Governor, Lt. Governor, Attorney General, House of Delegates (45th or 46th District), Commonwealth’s Attorney and Sheriff.

The voter registration deadline for this election, for those not already registered to vote at their current address, is October 16. You may submit or update your registration information online at https://vote.elections.virginia.gov. Any eligible U.S. citizen who will be 18 years old by November 7, 2017, is eligible to register and vote in this election.

For complete information on this election, including voter registration requirements, sample ballots, precinct maps and photo ID requirements, visit www.alexandriava.gov/Elections.

For more information, contact Anna Leider, General Registrar, Office of Voter Registration at 703.746.4050.

The free Smart911 service allows individuals and businesses to create online safety profiles with home, workplace and mobile phone numbers, along with additional information that would be valuable to dispatchers and first responders during an emergency. This information often includes home or work addresses, details about medical conditions, hazardous materials on the property, pets, and emergency contacts. Users are prompted to update their safety profiles every six months to ensure their information remains accurate. Even with a safety profile, it is still important that 9-1-1 callers, particularly those with mobile phones, provide their current locations to dispatchers at the start of each call.

Smart911 safety profiles are kept confidential and secure, and are only available to trained dispatchers in participating 9-1-1 centers across the country. This allows dispatchers to access profile information for traveling mobile phone users, and makes it easy for landline customers to update profiles with new numbers after moving. Smart911 is currently available in more than 1,500 communities in the U.S., across 40 states.

For more information and frequently asked questions, and to create a Smart911 safety profile, visit this link.  For assistance, please call 703.746.HELP(4357).

Here’s a shot of Courthouse Square Park, located directly across from the South building of Carlyle Towers.

For a complete list of vacancies, visit this link.

In addition to the five Board members, there were ten residents in attendance at the meeting.

Board Actions

1. The Board unanimously ratified their decision to accept the proposal from Just-Rite Equipment for replacement of the South Building large loading dock door in the amount of $25,894.
2. The Board unanimously ratified their decision to accept the proposal from Hurley Company for replacement of the South & West Building boiler flues in the amount of $23,974.
3. The Board unanimously ratified their decision to accept the proposal from TrashMasters for replacement of the East & West Building trash compactors in the amount of $31,164.
4. The Board President re-appointed the following members to the Election Committee; Robert Tap, Chairman; Nancy Jemiola-Cawley, Jack Hennessy; John Glennie; Donna Martin-Tap and Terri Audrain, Board Liaison.
5. The Board unanimously voted to release the funds for the Activities Committee for the upcoming fiscal-year. The total funding for the Committee is $7,000.
6. The Board unanimously voted to accept the proposal from Mona Electric in the amount of $14,850 for the East Building electrical switchgear maintenance. The Board also approved an additional expenditure for the services of Dominion Power; this expense should not exceed $2,000.
7. The Board voted unanimously to renew a 5-year contract with Planned Building Services; the vendor who performs daily custodial services. The new agreement expires September 30, 2022.
8. The Board voted unanimously to continue its existing relationship with HVAC Unlimited, Inc., by renewing a 3-year agreement with an optional 2-year extension.
9. The Board unanimously approved the Fourth Annual Puppies in the Pool Day on Thursday, September 21 between the hours of 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm. (The make-up day for this event will be held on Friday, September 22.)
10. The Board Treasurer reported that the Association is operating $29k better than budget at this time.

Updates: 

• There are currently 89 units that are leased by unit owners resulting in a current rental ratio of 16%.  Also, there are an additional 18 units that are vacant.
• 245 residents participated in the SmarTrip Program last month.

Interested residents can review the information presented to the Board; copies of the Board report are available at the front desk for you to review.  They are made available the Friday before each Board meeting.

The NEW date will be Saturday, Sept 16 in which the scheduled movie When Harry Met Sally that was suppose to air tonight will be shown.

This new movie series is part of a variety programming initiatives planned for Carlyle as part of the City’s Carlyle Vitality Initiative whose mission is to enhance the quality of life in the Carlyle neighborhood for residents, employees and visitors and maintaining the success of one of the City’s most important commercial districts.

For more information, visit this link.

Attorneys from the Alexandria-based law firm of MercerTrigiani will present information on the legal responsibilities of board members in serving their communities, understanding governing documents and approaches to resolving conflicts. The goals of the training are to help board members learn skills to improve the governing practices, function and efficiency of their communities. Participants will have ample time to ask questions.

This is the fourth in a series of free training sessions related to common interest ownership offered by the City and MercerTrigiani.  To register for this class, email brandi.collins@alexandriava.gov or call the City’s Office of Housing at 703.746.4990.

The event will honor those who died, and pay tribute to those who responded without fear, acted without hesitation, and gave their lives to save others. In the event of rain, the ceremony will take place in the Lee Center Auditorium, located at 1108 Jefferson Street.

The ceremony will feature remarks from Mayor Allison Silberberg and representatives from the Alexandria Police Department, Fire Department, and Sheriff’s Office. The tribute will also include the “Return to Quarters” bell-ringing ceremony.

Construction will impact traffic during work hours

On August 14, construction work in the 400 block of N. Washington Street (southbound, between Oronoco and Princess Streets) will reduce vehicular travel to one (1) through lane between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.

The two right lanes will be closed for construction activities that will require a crane to be placed in the roadway. Delays are expected.

Pedestrian detours will restrict sidewalk access, but crosswalks will be maintained and accessible. Please observe all traffic control signage in the area.

For questions or concerns, contact Call.Click.Connect staff at 703.746.HELP (4357).

Have a happy and safe Memorial Day!

The Carlyle Towers Condominiums monthly newsletter ‘The Chronicle’ is published by the Board of Directors for the benefit of Carlyle Towers residents. The publication is dedicated to fostering communication and collaboration among the residents, Board of Directors and staff; promoting numerous and diverse activities around Alexandria, Virginia; and informing residents of community resources and issues.

Residents and local businesses may place classified ads (for a fee) in the newsletter.

To place an ad in the newsletter, call 703-567-2151.

Here are the actions taken by the Board at the Wednesday, May 3, 2017 meeting:

1. The Board of Directors ratified their email vote to accept renewal of the Master Insurance Policy submitted by USI Insurance Services in the amount of $156,000. The term of the policy will take effect on May 10, 2017and expire on May 10, 2018.
2. The Board voted unanimously to approve the nominating petition and all associated documents, as amended, for the 2017 Annual Meeting and Election. The Annual Meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 2, 2017 at 7pm in the Carlyle Room. Nominating packets will be available at the front desk on Friday, May 12, 2017.
3. The Board voted unanimously to re-appoint the following four members to the Election Committee; Robert Tap, Nancy Jemiola-Cawley, Donna Martin-Tap and Jack Hennessy. The Governing Documents require that a member of the Board, whose term is not expiring, serve on the Committee as well. Mrs. Terri Audrain will serve as the Board liaison to the Committee.
4. The Board Treasurer reported that the Association is operating $25k better than budget.
5. The Board of Directors unanimously adopted General Resolution #96-18. This is a resolution offering condolences to the CTC Board President & his wife on the loss of their son Mark G. Binker. Details on the arrangements can be found at this link.

By a 6-1 vote on May 4, the Alexandria City Council adopted a $728.1 million General Fund Operating Budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2018, which represents an increase over the current year of 5.8%. The budget includes $242.6 million in operating funds and debt service for public schools (a 3.6% or $8.4 million increase over FY 2017 funding), while spending on City operations and debt service increased by just 2.5% after $4.1 million of spending reductions.  The budget also invests $2.1 billion over 10 years in Alexandria’s Capital Improvement Program.  FY 2018 begins on July 1, 2017.

To account for stagnant revenue growth, increasing school enrollment, needed City and school infrastructure investments, and Metro cost increases, the proposed budget includes an increase in the real estate tax rate of 5.7 cents, from $1.073 to $1.13 per $100 of assessed value.  This would increase the average homeowner’s tax bill by 6.3%, or $356 per year.  Alexandria’s real estate tax rate will remain among the lowest in Northern Virginia for homeowners and the second lowest for commercial property owners.  There are no increases in any other tax rates.

The adopted budget provides for a real estate tax rate 3.0 cents higher than that proposed by the City Manager.  From this additional revenue, $4.3 million will support a major affordable housing project, and the remaining $130.1 million expected to be received over the next 10 years will be placed in a contingent capital reserve to be allocated after recommendations from a blue-ribbon task force on City and school  construction needs.

The approved 10-year Capital Improvement Program includes substantially increased funding of $144.7 million to improve Metro safety and reliability and $370.2 million for accelerated sewer outfall projects.

A new stormwater utility fee will be applied to all residential and non-residential property owners to pay for costly new federal and state mandates.  This will fund stormwater management more equitably than by raising the real estate tax further, since a fee shifts stormwater management costs to the properties with greater impact on stormwater runoff.  The average homeowner will pay $70 for the second half of FY 2018.  Smaller residential properties will pay less, and very large homes will pay more.  Non-residential properties will pay a fee based on the impervious surface area they contain. Revenue from the stormwater utility fee is projected to raise $4.2 million in FY 2018.  The annual refuse fee will increase from $363 to $373 for households receiving City collection services.

Although the City has already been actively working to significantly reduce sewage overflows from its four combined sewer outfalls, work will be dramatically accelerated to comply with a new deadline of 2025 recently enacted by the General Assembly and approved by the Governor.  Revenue for these projects will come from a 30% increase in the sanitary sewer fee in FY 2018 (from $1.40 to $1.82 per thousand gallons), with significant increases in sewer-related fees over the next decade. The budget also includes the assumption of $45 million in state aid, like the assistance previously provided to Lynchburg and Richmond to address combined sewer outfalls in those cities.

The adopted budget underscores the City’s investment in its workforce by funding merit increases for employees who earn them through performance, and creating a pay incentive for dual-role firefighter/medic staff.  The budget reflects City Council’s Strategic Plan, analysis in the City’s Five-Year Financial Plan, the City Manager’s budget priorities, and extensive input from community engagement meetings and online forums.

To learn more about the entire budget process and view all budget documents, visit this link.

This 2 bedroom,  2 bath condominium is for sale and located at 2181 Jamieson Avenue in the Carlyle neighborhood of Alexandria, Virginia. Open house THIS Sunday, April 23, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM.

Via the listing

Very large 2 Bed 2 Bath with enclosed balcony great for sunroom or den. New HVAC unit. Numerous upgrades incl: wood floors, granite counters, upgraded appliances (incl W/D), stunning marble bath, professional closets, plenty of closets/ storage. Open floorplan & kitchen. Enjoy gorgeous sunsets/ Western view, Indoor/outdoor pools 2 gyms, tennis, 24-hr security walk to Metro, Whole Foods, Old Town.

Please see the below weekend rates for the Hoffman Garage:

• UP TO 1 HOUR – Rate – $1.50
• 1 – 2 HOURS – Rate – $3.00
• 2-3 HOURS – Rate – $4.50
• MORE THAN 3 HOURS – Rate – $7.00/ MAX

Residents are not permitted to use Guest Parking.  If your space is on the East Building side of the ramps, your space is located in the East Building garage. Parking spaces, facing the walls in front of the ramps, will have to be vacated as well.  The ramps will be open to allow traffic to move to and from specific building areas not being power washed. It is estimated the project will be completed by 4:00 p.m. Management will broadcast a message over the public address system announcing the re-opening of the garage. Please remember, if you do not remove your vehicle, there will be a $58 charge ($50 non-removal fee and $8 tarp fee).

As pointed out in your copy of the Carlyle Towers Condominium Governing Documents, please be reminded that the garage deck slabs are constructed of porous concrete and thus are not waterproof.  At all floor levels, water will flow through pipe penetrations, and cracks and drip onto the floors below.  It generally takes several days for the water to seep through the hairline cracks.  For this reason, dripping may occur in some areas for several days after the project is completed.

THE WATER CONTAINS CALCIUM DEPOSITS AND OTHER RESIDUE SUCH AS OIL, CONCRETE DEBRIS OR SOAPS, WHICH MAY BE DAMAGING TO THE PAINT ON YOUR VEHICLE. WE URGE YOU TO CONSIDER TAKING PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES. COVER YOUR VEHICLE WITH A TARP OR PROTECTIVE SHEETING. CARLYLE TOWERS CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DAMAGE DONE TO YOUR VEHICLE(S).

Tarps are available for purchase at the management office for $8.00/tarp.  You may pick one up at your convenience.

If you are going to be out of town during this project, please arrange for a friend or relative to remove your vehicle from the garage.

Please contact the Management Office if you have any questions.

This beautiful 2 bedroom,  2 bath condominium is for sale and located at 2181 Jamieson Avenue in the Carlyle neighborhood of Alexandria, Virginia.

Via the listing

Absolutely beautiful, light, bright home has 2 master suites & open floorplan. Luxury condo includes stylish features such as: wood floors, Silestone counters, double kitchen sink, stainless steel appliances, custom pantry, Berber carpet, glass encl shower, full-sized W/D, etc.Enclosed Balcony not included in 1087 sqft. 1 garage & storage. Walk to Metro, shops, restaurants,and King Street.

Kudos to our Landscaping Committee and our in-house Groundskeeper Courtney who do such a great job keeping our property beautiful!

Some of the improvements include:

• Removal of jersey barriers around the Courthouse
• The installation of garden walls and secure bollards around the site.
• The movement of existing parking spaces from Jamieson Ave to Elizabeth Lane.
• The reopening of Courthouse Square to one-way traffic.
  • This includes pop-up bollards on Courthouse Square which can be popped up in case of an event at the Courthouse.

Details on the construction from the Carlyle Community Council:

Effective Thursday, March 23rd, Jamieson Avenue will be PARTIALLY CLOSED allowing only one-way traffic heading westbound on Jamieson by the Courthouse construction site.  Traffic from Mill Road headed eastbound for Jamieson Avenue will be diverted.  Eastbound drivers can turn on Elizabeth Lane off of Eisenhower Avenue or continue on Eisenhower Avenue to John Carlyle Street or Holland Lane. Reportedly, this traffic plan will be in effect for the duration of the project, estimated to be completed in the early fall.

The City has directed the general contractor to put a message board at the corner of Mill and Jamieson Ave starting Monday about the one way traffic.

Tuesday was a snow day for many in Alexandria, Virginia as schools were closed and local government offices opened late because of wintry weather.

Here are a couple of photos from around our buildings. If you have one to share, email us or add them to our Facebook page.

This beautiful, combined 3 bedroom,  4  bath condominium is for sale and located at 2181 Jamieson Avenue in the Carlyle neighborhood of Alexandria, Virginia. It’s one of the few condos at Carlyle Towers with an open balcony. Open House Sunday, March 12, 2017 – 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM!

Via the listing

Lovely combined unit (#1511+#1510) creates a 3 bedroom/3.5 bath 2,000+ sq ft Carlyle Towers one level city home. Warm wood floors, beautiful built-ins, fresh paint & carpet. There’s a sunroom as well as an open balcony/patio area. 2 storage & 2 car garage parking complete the package–all in amenity rich Carlyle Towers just a few blocks from King Street Metro & all that Old Town has to offer!

Contact the Realtor at this link if you’re interested in more information about this property.

You can see more photos on our Facebook page.

Welcome Hernando!

There were thirty-four (34) residents in attendance at the March 1, 2017 meeting.

1. The Board of Directors unanimously ratified their decision to hire Mr. Hernando Herrera as General Manager of Carlyle Towers. Mr. Hernando’s official start date is Tuesday, March 21.
2. As recommended by the Replacement Reserve Committee, the Board of Directors unanimously approved the proposal submitted by C.A. Lindman to perform the East Building exterior repairs with the purchase of a Payment & Performance Bond. More information regarding the project will be disseminated in the coming weeks.
3. The Board Treasurer reported that the Association is operating $38k better than budget.
4. There are currently 87 units that are leased by unit owners resulting in a current rental ratio of 15%.  Also, there are an additional 18 units that are vacant.
5. 246 residents participated in the SmarTrip Program for the month of February.

The Carlyle Towers Condominiums monthly newsletter ‘The Chronicle’ is published by the Board of Directors for the benefit of Carlyle Towers residents. The publication is dedicated to fostering communication and collaboration among the residents, Board of Directors and staff; promoting numerous and diverse activities around Alexandria, Virginia; and informing residents of community resources and issues.

Residents and local businesses may place classified ads (for a fee) in the newsletter.

To place an ad in the newsletter, call 703-567-2151.

This beautiful 2 bedroom,  2  bath condominium is for sale and located at 2121 Jamieson Avenue in the Carlyle neighborhood of Alexandria, Virginia. It’s one of the few condos at Carlyle with an open balcony. Open House Sunday, March 5, 2017 – 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM!

Via the listing

Unique, larger 2 BR/2BA floor plan at Carlyle w/2 equal size master suites split by LR for privacy. 15th floor is a perfect to enjoy the view & special open balcony. Enjoy wood floors, granite kitchen, open floorplan w/separate DR. Just pay electric/phone/cable.1 garage space & storage convey. 2 gyms,pool,tennis,24-hr security & more. Blocks to King St Metro,Whole Foods,movies,restaurants & waterfront

Contact the Realtor at this link if you’re interested in more information about this property.

The branch moved from 330 John Carlyle Street into a larger space two (2) blocks away at 1920 Ballenger.

The branch offers a wide range of educational investing workshops, which are complimentary and open to Schwab clients as well as the general public.

The branch, one of twelve (12)  Schwab branches in the Washington Metropolitan area (DMV),  is managed by Grant Joiner, and is open Monday-Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

For more information about the branch and to make an appointment, call 703-299-3260 or visit this link.

This beautiful 2 bedroom,  2  bath condominium is for sale and located at 2151 Jamieson Avenue in the Carlyle neighborhood of Alexandria, Virginia. Open House Sunday, February 26, 2017 – 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM!

Via the listing

Luxurious 2BR in Alexandria’s much acclaimed Carlyle Towers Condominium. Lots of amenities. Incredible living space 1074.5 sf (incl. enclosed balcony of 142.5sf), magnificent location. Balcony offers impressive views of community square and skyline, lots of light. Updated kitchen, new w-w carpet &paint. 3 blocks to King Street METRO. Pet friendly. Parking. Open Sun Feb 26 1-3 PM

Contact the Realtor at this link if you’re interested in more information about this property.

After a thorough search, the Carlyle Towers Board of Directors selected as our new General Manager, Hernando Herrera. Hernando is no stranger to property management which he has been in for over 7 years.

Hernando is leaving Hillandale Homeowners Association, located in Georgetown in Washington, D.C. as the property manager but is excited and eager for his new endeavors here at Carlyle Towers Condominiums.

The formal announcement from the Board will be this Wednesday, March 1 at 7:00 PM during the regular Board meeting in the Carlyle Room. Afterward, there will be a meet and greet with Hernando. Please feel free to stop by and meet Hernando!

DCist has more about our early spring weather we’re experiencing in February 2017 at this link.

In addition to being very walkable and near public transportation, Carlyle has a plethora of Zipcar locations in the neighborhood. So, you don’t need a car while you live here at Carlyle Towers. Car sharing with Zipcar saves you hundreds over car ownership.

Zipcar and the City of Alexandria, Virginia have put together a special program for residents. Join Zipcar and City of Alexandria will refund your application fee and your first year’s annual membership fee. There are many Zipcar locations in Alexandria, Virginia (see map below).

This program is only available to Alexandria, VA residents and businesses. Cannot be used with other offers of discounts.

More details on this and to learn how to receive reimbursement, visit this link.

The Carlyle Community Council offers residents and employees discounted Capital Bikeshare memberships to those that live or work in our Carlyle neighborhood.

For more details on the Capital Bikeshare program in Carlyle and to get your discounted membership, visit this link.

Returning Restaurant Week participants include Alexandria newcomers Magnolia’s on King,Carluccio’s and Lena’s Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap, along with Restaurant Eve, Sonoma Cellar, Bastille Restaurant and Wine Bar, La Bergerie, Virtue Feed & Grain,Geranio, Del Ray Café and many more, all with fresh new twists on Restaurant Week.

Alexandria Winter Restaurant Week showcases the inventiveness of local chefs in neighborhoods throughout the city, including Old Town, Del Ray and the West End. At a range of locales, from fine dining establishments to casual neighborhood favorites, guests will savor the flavors of Alexandria’s distinctive collection of eateries.

Via Alexandria Restaurant Week online for more information.

If you have a photo of the recent snow, email us at web [at] carlyletowers [dot] com.

This beautiful 2 bedroom,  2  bath condominium is for sale and located at 2181 Jamieson Avenue in the Carlyle neighborhood of Alexandria, Virginia. Open House TODAY – 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM! Check out the view!

Via the listing

Enjoy amazing sunsets from this beautiful, spacious updated Carlyle home: largest 1 lvl, 2 BR/2BA model. Wood floors thru-out, updated kitchen w/granite & SS appliances. Tiled enclosed Balcony, not incl in 1228 sqft. Incl TWO garage & 1 storage space. Just pay electric, phone, cable/internet. W/D in unit. Pool, 2 gyms, tennis, 24hr security, etc. Blocks to King St Metro, Movies, shops&restaurants.

Contact the Realtor at this link if you’re interested in more information about this property.

Via the listing

Light & bright. In 2010, new wood floors in Kit, DR, LR, tile on balcony & BR carpet. Unit features: HIGHER ceilings, 2 master suites, perfect for roommates, home office, etc. Separate DR w/pass through to kitchen, great encl balcony, not incl in 1100 sqft. Walk to 2 metros, Whole Foods, shops, restaurants, movies etc. Enjoy pool, tennis, 2 gyms, putting green & 24-hr security. 1 garage & storage

Contact the Realtor at this link if you’re interested in more information about this property.

At its regular meeting on January 24, Alexandria City Council unanimously adopted the “Vision Zero” international traffic safety concept with the goal of eliminating all traffic deaths and serious injuries by 2028. As a Vision Zero community, Alexandria recognizes that these incidents are preventable through proper engineering, enforcement, evaluation and education.

“By adopting Vision Zero, we will learn and apply best practices from other communities as we strive to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries in Alexandria,” said Mayor Allison Silberberg. “The loss of even one life or the injury of even one person is unacceptable.”

In 2016, there were four pedestrian deaths in Alexandria, an increase from one death in 2015, none in 2014, and two in 2013. There were over 35,000 traffic deaths in the United States in 2015, up 7.2 percent from 2014 after a decade-long decline.

This week’s action by City Council to adopt the Vision Zero philosophy follows over a year of research and planning by City staff.  The next step is for staff to develop an action plan for consideration by Council this fall. The action plan, which will be developed and implemented through community participation, will use a data-driven approach to identify the tasks and funding needed to achieve Vision Zero in Alexandria.

For more information, including the resolution adopted by City Council, visit this link.

It was windy, but that didn't slow Dep. Chief @sfardAPD down.
These safety tips are important for preventing larcenies from auto! pic.twitter.com/Lt88r7Bv7B

— Alexandria Police (@AlexandriaVAPD) January 19, 2017

(Feature photo by Cliff, on Flickr)

SafeTrack’s “Safety Surges” involve long-duration of track outages for major projects in key parts of the system that will cause delays throughout the region. The City of Alexandria urges commuters to telework and use alternative ways to commute that do not involve driving alone.

This week, Metro released schedule information for the remaining SafeTrack surges between February and June 2017. Surges will resume February 11 with an 18-day surge on the Blue Line.

Here’s how the upcoming SafeTrack surges affect our Carlyle neighborhood.

If you have a photo from around Carlyle Towers that you would like to share, please send us an email.

(Photo courtesy CTC resident Lee Hernly)

Via the listing

Walk score of 81! Luxurious living at Carlyle Towers in one of the exclusive 14 townhomes with over 1,880 sq ft. Soaring ceilings on the main to include-Foyer, LR, DR, Kit with granite & extra cabinets. Largest patio backing to green space. 3BR, 2.5 BA plus open den.1 car gar pkg. Pools, gyms, sauna, tennis, 24 hour security, dog area. Blocks to King St Metro, movies, shops & restaurants galore!

Contact the Realtor at this link if you’re interested in more information about this property.

ICYMI, the City of Alexandria, Virginia ushered in the New Year (2017) with a spectacular fireworks display in Old Town for First Night Alexandria.

First Night Alexandria is a fantastic celebration of the new year through the performing arts. Local shops, restaurants and buildings in Old Town Alexandria turn into performance venues to showcase local talent.  It’s fun, affordable, safe and family friendly and a great way to ring in the new year.

Holiday decorations are a bit like art – you know what you like when you see it.  And our own sense of neighborliness and desire to live in a friendly community, combined with our need to respect freedom of expression, mean we must recognize each other’s rights when it comes to decorating for the holidays. Having said that, Holiday decorations are allowed on unit doors through January 6 each year.

More rules & regulations regarding living at Carlyle Towers Condominiums can be found at this link.

Thank you for a wonderful 2016. It’s been a great year and we look forward to serving you in the New Year at Alexandria, Virginia’s premier luxury waterfront condominium community.

What are your New Year’s resolutions?

Alexandria, Virginia is one of the most walking, biking, and public transit friendly cities on the East Coast. Our neighborhood has walkable parks, supermarkets, movie theatres, restaurants, and more.

You can view the walk score map at this link.

Photo taken at Hoffman Town Center.

Access National Bank is pleased to announce the opening of their new Alexandria Banking Center, located in the Carlyle District at 2050 Ballenger Avenue — steps away from the US Eastern District Courthouse and the USPTO main campus. The new office officially opened for business on November 22.

The opening of this new Banking Center will allow Access National to better support Alexandria’s vibrant business and nonprofit community. Under the leadership of veteran Alexandria banker and commercial market expert, John McManus, as Senior Vice President, Relationship Manager, and Chhaya Muth, Assistant Vice President, Client Services Manager, the Bank was honored to be awarded the 2016 Alexandria Chamber Rising Star Business Award for its service to the local business community.

The expansion into Alexandria marks the bank’s sixth regional office designed to serve the business and nonprofit community. The Bank offers extensive experience in several key industries including CPA Firms, Legal Services, Medical Practices, National Trade Associations, Nonprofits and Government Contractors. “We’ve been trusted advisors to our clients in Alexandria for a long time now and are thrilled to finally have an Access National Banking Center location in the City,” said Michael W. Clarke, CEO. “We decided to bring our business banking expertise and style of proactive relationship banking to the commercial epicenter of Alexandria with truly exceptional bankers led by John and Chhaya, further solidifying us as the community bank of choice for local businesses.” Clarke concluded, “As we work with Middleburg Financial Corporation on our strategic merger, which we expect to close in the second quarter of 2017, this new Alexandria location is a clear signal that we are still hiring and continuing to expand in metro DC as the bank built for business.”

The Alexandria Banking Center is a full-service location with hours from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., Monday – Friday, or by appointment. For inquiries, contact the office at (703) 871-5700 or by email at jmcmanus@accessnationalbank.com or cmuth@accessnationalbank.com.

Via the listing

2 units combined (2110 & 2111). Exquisite 3 bedroom/3.5 bathroom Penthouse in the west building of the luxurious Carlyle Towers. Chef’s kitchen with beautiful custom cherry cabinets and upscale appliances. Gorgeous cherry flooring where not carpeted or tiled. Office alcove off living room. Lovely paint scheme and moldings. 2 sunroom balconies, 2 excellent parking spaces and 2 storage units.

Contact the Realtor at this link if you’re interested in more information about this property.

First Night Alexandria is a fantastic celebration of the new year through the performing arts. Local shops, restaurants and buildings in Old Town Alexandria turn into performance venues to showcase local talent.  It’s fun, affordable, safe and family friendly and a great way to ring in the new year.

The New Year’s Eve bash takes place all over Old Town Alexandria, with 100 live performances at 23 venues, the Annual Fun Hunt, plus children’s face painting and games; and a midnight spectacular with fireworks on the Potomac River waterfront. Performances conclude at 11:30 p.m.

The event is FREE for active military personnel and their families and is FREE for kids 12 and under.

Find out more at this link.

Join in free fun outdoor fitness classes this fall in John Carlyle Square Park beginning September 9th and continuing through November (weather permitting). Classes will be sponsored and taught by Carlyle area fitness studios including Local Motion, Onelife Fitness, and Pure Barre.

Take this opportunity to try something new or enjoy a favorite workout in the great outdoors! No need to register or bring any equipment – just show up!

More details at this link.

Via the listing

Beautiful & Bright unit features neutral, elegant decor. Features: open floorplan w/separate DR, wood floors, remodeled bathrooms & gourmet kitchen w/granite and stainless appliances, etc. 1070 sqft includes the enclosed balcony . Fantastic 14th floor view on the quiet side of Carlyle. Enjoy Carlyle’s pool, 2 gyms, tennis, putt green,24hr security, etc. Blocks to Metro, Movies, shops &restaurants.

Contact the Realtor at this link if you’re interested in more information about this property.

Looking for a home for rent or for sale in the Alexandria, Virginia area? Click this link to search local real estate listings.

If you have a home to sell or to rent in the Alexandria, Virginia area, consider putting it in front of the area’s FASTEST growing audience. Click this link for details.

Each festival attendee will be given the opportunity to “Make Their Health Happen” by visiting one-on-one the many talented partners participating.  Attendees can take a proactive role to assemble the best Health and Wellness Team to fit their lifestyles and interests. This health fair will incorporate fun and safe games/ competition/ exercise, and entertainment, raffles and giveaways for people of all ages.

For more information, visit this link.

The home security company, Protect America, has an annual program that recognizes the safest cities in America called the “Top 10 National Burglary Safezones”. Alexandria, Virginia has been recognized as the #3 safest small city in the United States.

Via the listing

Spectacular 15th floor monument VIEWS! *1,661 sq ft *Gleaming hardwoods *Elegant marble foyer *Sweeping living rm *Separate dining rm *Covered terrace *Master w/ 2 W.I. closets & lux spa bath *Full size W/D *2 main lvl garage spaces *Storage unit *Resort like amenities: concierge, shuttle service, 2 outdoor pools, indoor pool, health club, sauna, tennis…*Amazing walk to Metro & Old Town locale!

Contact the Realtor at this link if you’re interested in more information about this property.

Looking for a home for rent or for sale in the Alexandria, Virginia area? Click this link to search local real estate listings.

If you have a home to sell or to rent in the Alexandria, Virginia area, consider putting it in front of the area’s FASTEST growing audience. Click this link for details.

On Sunday, August 9, 2015, DASH will implement the following schedule changes:

• AT1 WEEKENDS:
  • Weekend route will terminate at Van Dorn Metrorail Station and no longer service Eisenhower Valley
  • Weekend service between Van Dorn and Eisenhower Metrorail Stations will be provided by the DASH AT5 route
• AT5 WEEKENDS:
  • Weekend AT5 route will be extended to Eisenhower Metrorail Station
  • Schedule modifications for improved service coordination
• AT7 WEEKDAYS:
  • Weekday schedule modification for improved Metrorail connectivity
• KING STREET TROLLEY
  • Increased service to every 10-15 minutes for improved frequency and capacity

As a reminder, please check all DASH routes for timetable adjustments for improved schedule adherence, coordinating, connectivity and service reliability.

Please refer to the new DASH Ride Guide with the GREEN cover for routes and schedules.

Click this link (PDF) to view the new DASH Ride Guide.

(Cross posted at RedBrickTown.com)

DASH bus is now operating on a regular weekday schedule in Alexandria, Virginia with no snow delays or snow detours. For more information, please visit this link.

(Cross posted @ Red Brick Town)

King Street Trolley Service Schedule:

The King Street Trolley operates daily, every 15 minutes, between the King Street Metro to the waterfront.

• Sunday – Wednesday: 10 a.m. – 10:15 p.m.
• Thursday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 12 a.m.

FREE DASH Shuttle to the George Washington Birthday Parade: Monday, February 16 starting at 11 a.m.

REMINDER: FREE DASH Shuttles will run to and from Eisenhower Metrorail Station from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. to and from the George Washington Birthday Parade dropping off in Old Town at Prince and Washington Streets.

If you would like to stay past 4 p.m., just board any DASH bus on King Street. Regular DASH buses provide service to the King Street and Braddock Metrorail Stations until 11:30 p.m. DASH fare is $1.60.

DASH shuttles do not stop at the King Street Metrorail Station

• Click this link for the DASH Shuttle information and a map of the George Washington Birthday Parade
• Click this link for George Washington Birthday Parade information

(Cross posted at Red Brick Town)

For a full list of events surrounding the George Washington Birthday celebration, visit this link.

Here’s What You Need to Know to Enjoy The Parade

• Get to the parade route EARLY if you’re there between 11:00-11:30am, you should get a good seat.
• IMHO, the best viewing is near the reviewing stand which is located at King Street and Royal Street on the west side of City Hall.
• East/West streets in lower Old Town as well as streets where the assembly takes place will be closed at 10:00am @ Washington Street  (e.g. Prince Street, Cameron Street, Queen Street, King Street, Duke Street, etc.) at Pitt Street. See the parade route at this link.
• You can find real-time parking information at this link.
• King Street Trolley will be running from the King Street Metro Station to Washington Street.
• DASH Bus will be running a FREE shuttle from the Eisenhower Ave Metro Station to Washington Street starting at 11:00am.

Hope to see you there!

(Cross posted @ Red Brick Town)

A new WETA documentary “Discovering Alexandria: The Early Years” premiered Thursday night @ 8:00 PM It replays TONIGHT (Sunday, December 7) @ 7:00 PM.

A year in the making, the film tells the story of Alexandria from its earliest origins through post-Civil War reconstruction, highlighting the city’s influential role in the U.S. Independence movement, and much more. See a sample of the documentary above.

If you can’t watch the documentary tonight, Tuesday, December 9 at 8 p.m., and Tuesday, December 30 at 8 p.m. on WETA TV 26 and WETA HD.

DASH Bus Service:

• Thursday, November 27, 2014: Happy Thanksgiving!\
  • No DASH Service
  • DASH Administrative Offices will be closed.
• Friday, November 28, 2014: Black Friday – Happy Shopping!
  • Regular DASH Service
  • DASH Administrative Offices will be closed.

King Street Trolley Service:

The King Street Trolley operates daily, every 15 minutes between the King Street Metrorail Station and the Potomac River waterfront:

• Thursday, November 27, 2014: Happy Thanksgiving!
  • The King Street Trolley will operate on a regular Thursday service schedule from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. midnight
• Friday, November 28, 2014: Black Friday – Happy Shopping!
  • The King Street Trolley will begin service at 6:00 a.m. and operate until 12:00 a.m. midnight.

(Cross posted @ RedBrickTown.com)

The occupant who was unable to escape through the front door, due to smoke and fire, was able to escape through a first floor bedroom window unharmed where they called 911. The sprinkler system extinguished the fire confining all damage to the apartment.

Alexandria Fire Chief Robert Dubé said that the fire drove home the message of this year’s National Fire Prevention week held from October 5 – 11 that “Working Smoke Detectors Save Lives.”

Over the last four decades, an estimated 90,000 lives have been saved by smoke detection and fire sprinkler systems. Odds of dying in a residential fire are reduced by half if you have a working smoke detector.

The occupant of the apartment along with an individual not at home when the fire occurred were assisted by the American Red Cross with temporary housing until repairs could be made to their apartment.

(Cross posted @ Red Brick Town)

Anyone who has received a phone call or message from the number 703.746.4444, accompanied by a demand for money to pay outstanding court, traffic fines, or to bring their vehicle to Police Headquarters should not respond to that message, or they should hang up on the caller. No one from the Alexandria Police Department is making those calls.

More than 20 citizens called the Alexandria Police Department today reporting that a male representing himself as a police officer, with the 703.746.4444 number showing on Caller ID, called them. The “scammer” either left a message or threatened them over the phone. The man said they owed money for outstanding court fines, traffic offenses, etc., and asked victims for various ID numbers. It is believed that the suspect would eventually tell victim’s they must immediately pay money to avoid arrest. At this time, no one is known to have complied with the caller’s demands. People receiving the calls have been suspicious and called the non-emergency number back to verify. That is the correct action to take.

The Alexandria Police Department does not contact people and demand money. It appears someone is “spoofing” the non-emergency phone number in an attempt to pass himself off as being from the Police Department. The Alexandria Police Department is investigating this incident.

The 703.746.4444 phone number is still the working non-emergency number. Anyone who calls this number will reach the Department of Emergency Communication; “spoofing” does not work in reverse and when you call 703.746.4444, residents will reach a legitimate City employee.

(Cross posted @ Red Brick Town)

Panera Bread will be expanding in Alexandria into Carlyle at the old location of the Plaza Gourmet at 1940 Duke Street in Alexandria located across the street from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

In this location, Panera Bread will be open from 6:30 AM to 9:30 PM daily serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner and they will offer delivery in the Alexandria/Carlyle/Eisenhower East/Old Town area. The restaurant will have 26 seats inside with additional seating available on the patio.

The SUP can be found here at this link (PDF file). Public comments on this SUP are due by Monday, August 25. You can email the planner Ann Horowitz with your comments.

(Cross posted @ Red Brick Town)

(Cross-posted @ RedBrickTown.com)

• Sunday – Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. – 10:15 p.m.
• Thursday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. midnight

DASH operates the free King Street Trolley with environmentally friendly, hybrid vehicles.

Hop Aboard the Free King Street Trolley

Discover a convenient, environmentally friendly and fun way to get around Old Town Alexandria. The King Street Trolley transports riders between the King Street Metrorail Station and the Potomac River waterfront. The trolley runs daily every 15 minutes. With more than 20 stops for hopping on and off, explore the shops, restaurants and attractions found along Alexandria’s historic main street.

Helpful Information

Smoking, eating, or drinking is prohibited on the trolley. Passengers with strollers must close strollers before entering. The trolley stops at designated stops and, by request at a safe location. Passengers should pull the stop request cord to signal a stop.

Accessibility

The King Street Trolley is equipped with wheelchair ramps and bike racks and makes automated stop announcements.

For inquires, comments or lost items contact DASH at 703-746-DASH (3274), or email DASHBus@AlexandriaVA.gov.

Via the listing:

Spacious 1,600sqft 3br, 2.5ba renovated condo at Carlyle Towers. Open floor plan w/ tons of light, lives like a home. $40k kitchen renovation w/ granite, stainless, hardwood floors! Great sunset views from enclosed balcony. Walk to King Street Metro, Whole Foods, shops, restaurants & movies – Everything Old Town has to offer! Pool, tennis, 2 gyms, putting green and 24-hr security.

Film critic Kevin McCarthy LOVES the all-star cast assemble for this 3D animated epic that’s straight from your childhood toy box. Monuments Men? Not so much…

Both are playing at the AMC Theatre 22 in our Carlyle/Eisenhower East neighborhood. I’m gonna see both this weekend, what about you?

Jazz vocalist Lena Seikaly (see the video above for a sample from Ms. Seikaly) teams up with the esteemed Bohemian Caverns Jazz Orchestra for what looks like a TERRIFIC evening of big band hits from the First Lady of Song, Ella Fitzgerald.

Click this link for tickets.

Some of these changes affect Carlyle so pay attention below.

The Board of Directors of the Alexandria Transit Company (ATC) will hold a public hearing in the Sister Cities Conference Room 1101, City Hall, Alexandria, Virginia, on March 28, 2013, at 5:30 p.m.

The following proposed fare and service changes have been identified in response to a potential fiscal year 2014 City budget shortfall that could affect DASH local transit subsidies. The Alexandria City Council adoption of the fiscal year 2014 budget on May 6, could impact the level of fare and service changes anticipated to take effect July 2013:

• A 10¢ increase in the base fare to $1.60. A $5.00 increase in the cost of the monthly DASH Pass to $40.
• King Street Trolley – Service frequency will be reduced from every 15 minutes to every 20 minutes year round.
• AT1 – Peak period extension between Van Dorn and Eisenhower Metrorail Stations will be discontinued. Saturday extension between Eisenhower Avenue and King Street Metrorail Stations, via Carlyle, will be discontinued.
• AT2 – Saturday service frequency will be reduced from every 45 minutes to every 60 minutes.

The ATC Board of Directors is proposing the following service improvements based on funding identified in the City Manager’s proposed fiscal year 2014 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP):

• AT8 – Weekday peak period service frequency increased to every 10 minutes between Landmark Mall and the King Street Metrorail Station. Weekday midday service frequencies expanded to provide 30 minute frequencies along the entire route.
• AT9 – New weekday crosstown route connecting Mark Center, Southern Towers, NVCC, Bradlee Shopping Center, Parkfairfax, Shirlington Transit Center, Arlandria, Glebe Road, and Potomac Yard.
• AT10 – Weekday service to end approximately an hour later and Saturday service to start approximately an hour earlier and end an hour later.

Copies of the 2014 Transit Development Program (TDP) and service proposals are available for public inspection during business hours at the ATC office, 3000 Business Center Drive, Alexandria, Virginia, on the DASH website at www.dashbus.com, or by contacting Marlene Jones, ATC Secretary, 703-746-5637.

The City of Alexandria is under a Winter Weather Advisory until noon today. City crews have been working throughout the morning in response to this morning’s snowfall and are treating primary roads and some secondary routes; however, untreated surfaces, particularly in neighborhoods, may be dangerous. Residents are advised to use caution while driving today.

Check the building calendar at this link for more events.

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN STERLING VIRGINIA HAS ISSUED A
COASTAL FLOOD ADVISORY…WHICH IS IN EFFECT UNTIL 1 AM EDT
WEDNESDAY.

* TIDAL ANOMALY…1.5 TO 2 FEET.

* TIMING…AROUND TIME OF HIGH TIDE.

* EXPECTED IMPACTS…MINOR SHORELINE INUNDATION.

HERE ARE THE TIMES OF THE NEXT HIGH TIDES
FOR A FEW LOCATIONS FROM NORTH TO SOUTH…
ON THE CHESAPEAKE BAY…
HAVRE DE GRACE…11:20 PM…
BOWLEY BAR…9:05 PM…
FORT MCHENRY BALTIMORE…8:14 PM…

NOW ALONG THE POTOMAC RIVER…
WASHINGTON CHANNEL…9:37 PM…
ALEXANDRIA…9:55 PM…

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

A COASTAL FLOOD ADVISORY INDICATES THAT ONSHORE WINDS AND TIDES
WILL COMBINE TO GENERATE FLOODING OF LOW AREAS ALONG THE SHORE.

Commuter Connections and the Washington Area Bicyclist Association are the regional sponsors. Bicyclists who pre-register for a pit stop receive a free T-shirt, refreshments, and a chance to win bike gear, and other great raffle prizes donated by our sponsors.  For questions about becoming a volunteer, sponsor, or exhibitor, contact Lee Hernly our CCC representative via our resident website.

For more information or to register as a bicyclist, visit this link.

The Challenge runs from April 1 – April 12 and employees of participating companies will record a daily commute log online. Employees will have an opportunity to win a prize during the Challenge and three Employer Grand Prizes will be awarded at the conclusion of the Challenge.

To sign your business up and to learn more about the challenge, visit this link.

Bike to Work Day online registration is now open and the City of Alexandria has three great pit stops to choose from including Carlyle’s very own John Carlyle Square Park. See the video above for what biking to work is like from Alexandria to Washington, D.C.

If you have never attended one, this event is a great time full of food, prizes and plain old goodwill. See you on 5/17.

ATC, the non-profit, public service corporation wholly-owned by the City of Alexandria initiated the DASH system on March 11, 1984. The system started with four routes and a new fleet of 17-30 foot buses. The system quickly outgrew the smaller buses as more and more people started riding DASH and liking what the service offered. ATC operates nine routes with 73 buses, and the King Street Trolley with five trolleys. DASH carries four million customers annually. “The system has grown threefold since its inception, while ridership has grown fourfold,” stated Sandy Modell, ATC General Manager. “By providing a back to basics approach with clean buses, friendly drivers, and reliable service, we have attracted and retained a very strong customer base,” Modell said.

Over the past year, some of DASH’s achievements include the implementation of 10 new hybrid buses and five trolleys. ATC began operating the King Street Trolley, which has led to a 65% increase in ridership in comparison to the same period last year. ATC has also installed bike racks on all DASH buses and trolleys. DASH has been the recipient of City awards, to include the 2012 Alexandria Beautification Award and the 2012 Environmental Achievement Award. “The City is very proud of the DASH bus system and the role it plays in the City’s transportation network,” added Rich Baier, the City’s Director of T&ES.

DASH continues to grow and expand to meet the development growth in the City and the increasing transportation needs. DASH’s mission is to provide reliable, affordable, safe and friendly customer service to all passengers. DASH has been successful at this mission for 29 years, and will continue to provide outstanding service to Alexandrians.

For more information visit http://dashbus.com.

In addition, all evening recreation classes, activities and programs have been cancelled. For updated cancellation and reschedule information, call the Program Hotline. RPCA Hotline numbers may be found by visiting http://alexandriava.gov/28982.

For additional information on RPCA programs and activities, visit www.alexandriava.gov/recreation or call 703.746.4343.

Join us for a final salute to Black History Month! Watch the Kauffman Auditorium transform into the legendary Apollo Theater as each of the Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities’ Power-On programs sing and dance through the decades. Performances include Motown from the 60’s, Line Dancing from the 70’s, Pop music from 80’s, and much, much more!

For more information on Apollo Live or the City of Alexandria’s ACCT initiative, contact the Out of School Time Program Office at 703.746.5575 or Kendall Hermsdorf at 703.746.5411.

The ATC Board of Directors Meeting will be held on Thursday, February 28, 2013 at Alexandria’s City Hall, 301 King Street, Sister Cities Conference Center, Room 1101, at 5:30 p.m..

For more information, please visit www.dashbus.com.

Residents in the storm’s path are advised to move indoors to a sturdy building and stay away from windows.

The City of Alexandria is also under a Tornado Watch until 2 a.m. on Thursday, January 31. A Flash Flood Watch remains in effect until late tonight, and a Coastal Flood Advisory is in effect until 3 a.m. on Thursday, January 31.

A Wind Advisory is also in effect until 6 a.m. on Thursday, January 31. Strong winds could down tree limbs or cause power outages.

Residents are urged to monitor weather reports and to be prepared to act if severe weather warnings are issued.

For information on tornado preparedness, visit alexandriava.gov/Tornado. For information on flooding preparedness, visit alexandriava.gov/Flooding.

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The NWS predicts wind gusts around 35-40 MPH starting in the early afternoon hours. The NWS is also monitoring threats of a line of thunderstorms approaching the District of Columbia from the west which is expected to reach the DC area between 7 and 10 PM. The storms have the potential to produce heavy rainfall and wind gusts up to 70 MPH. The National Weather Service reports this line of thunderstorms is fast moving and will last around 15 to 20 minutes with residual rainfall immediately following. The DC area should expect up to 2 inches of rainfall.

Additionally, the NWS has issued a coastal flood advisory for the District of Columbia from 7PM this evening to 3AM tomorrow morning. At high tide (10PM) NWS expects the water levels to increase 2 feet above normal. This anomaly could cause minor shoreline inundation of areas along the tidal Potomac River, the southwest waterfront.

The DC Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency (HSEMA) urge citizens and business owners to ensure that the drains and catch basins around their homes and business are clear to prevent any flooding. HSEMA is also coordinating with its partner agencies to mitigate the effects of the upcoming storm.

SmarTrip® has the advantage of allowing you to pay fares on numerous providers with just one card. The following area transit providers accept SmarTrip® cards: DASH, Ride On, Fairfax Connector, ART, CUE, Loudoun County Transit, Omniride, TheBus, DC Circulator, and registered van pools.

Going forward, CCC member properties can set up accounts with WMATA so SmarTrip card value can be pre-loaded each month for participating residents. Residents will be able to add value on their own as well. Carlyle Towers is setting up an account with WMATA. You can find the form after the jump.

Carlyle Towers SmarTrip Enrollment Form by CTCWebSite

See more photos of the event at this link. If you want more information about the local transit benefit program, visit the front desk.

The dates for the cleaning are the following:

• April 6 – East Building (From East Ramp to Building)
• April 13 – West Building (From West Ramp to Building)
• April 20 – South Building (All spaces in-between East and West Ramps)

You will receive additional and more detailed information over the coming weeks.

The watch is in effect starting Thursday morning and will continue until late Thursday night.

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN BALTIMORE MD/WASHINGTON HAS ISSUED A WINTER STORM WATCH…WHICH IS IN EFFECT FROM THURSDAY MORNING THROUGH LATE THURSDAY NIGHT.

* PRECIPITATION TYPE…SNOW…POSSIBLY HEAVY AT TIMES.

* ACCUMULATIONS…IN EXCESS OF 5 INCHES POSSIBLE.

* TIMING…SNOW MAY MIX WITH RAIN AT THE ONSET…ESPECIALLY SOUTH OF WASHINGTON DC THURSDAY MORNING…BEFORE CHANGING TO ALL SNOW LATE THURSDAY MORNING AND AFTERNOON. SNOW WILL END THURSDAY NIGHT. SNOW MAY BE HEAVY AT TIMES DURING THE AFTERNOON AND
EVENING.

* TEMPERATURES…IN THE LOWER TO MID 30S.

* WINDS…NORTHWEST 5 TO 10 MPH WITH GUSTS UP TO 20 MPH.

* IMPACTS…ROADS MAY BECOME SNOW COVERED…ESPECIALLY DURING THE EVENING RUSH HOUR.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

A WINTER STORM WATCH MEANS THERE IS A POTENTIAL FOR SIGNIFICANT SNOW ACCUMULATIONS THAT MAY IMPACT TRAVEL. CONTINUE TO MONITOR THE LATEST FORECASTS.

• Create a vibrant online platform that inspires offline action;
• improve the quality of life for our most vulnerable and
• engage residents and business people in problem solving to strengthen community.

We will keep you informed with any new information.

All lanes of Beltway Outer Loop in Fairfax near the Arlington Blvd/Route 50 exit will be closed from 10:30 pm Sunday to 5 am Monday.#VDOT

— Gerry Connolly (@GerryConnolly) January 11, 2013

For more information, see this Dr. Gridlock post on WashingtonPost.com.

The King Street Trolley and all DASH buses operating on King Street between the King Street Metrorail Station and the Waterfront will be free. DASH bus and trolley service along King Street will operate until 1:00 a.m., on New Year’s Eve.

Leave your cars at home, ride the King Street Trolley and DASH, and enjoy the events of First Night Alexandria and the countdown into the New Year with fireworks on the Potomac River.

DASH will operate a regular weekday schedule on New Year’s Eve, Monday, December 31 and will be closed on New Year’s Day, Tuesday, January 1, 2013.

The King Street Trolley will operate every 15 minutes between the rail and the river on New Year’s Day from 11:30 a.m. to 10:15 p.m.

For DASH routes and schedules, visit www.dashbus.com.

Happy New Year from DASH!

Effective July 1, 2013, DASH will discontinue the use of the paper DASH Pass. The DASH Pass will be available only electronically.

The electronic DASH Pass is still only $35 and is available for purchase at the Alexandria Transit Store, online at www.wmata.com/fares/smartrip/ and at many retail locations that can be found on www.dashbus.com/fares.

Purchase Your Electronic DASH Pass Online!

Great news! The electronic DASH Pass is now available to purchase online at www.wmata.com/fares/smartrip/. Enjoy the same money-saving, economical DASH Pass without the paper, and still only $35! Simply load the DASH Pass directly onto your SmarTrip Card!

Available only on SmarTrip Cards and valid for unlimited rides on all DASH buses during the calendar month.

Thank you very much!

The 2012 Staff Holiday Fund Committee

Trees left in the loading dock after that time will be removed at an additional cost to the Association, the cost of which will be billed to any resident discarding a tree on or after January 10th.

City crews are working throughout the City applying salt and will continue to monitor the weather and road conditions. For more information, visit alexandriava.gov/snow.

For many reasons, the rules of Carlyle Towers prohibit solicitation in any form.  A Condominium is a captive audience for individuals or businesses that want to advertise.  Be it a resident, fast food deliverer, service provider, or someone else, access to the building by one person makes all residents easy targets as the solicitor goes door-to-door delivering literature.  Management occasionally receives forms of solicitation that have been placed under the doors of our residents.  We then contact the individual or business listed on the solicitation and inform them of the Condominium’s rules.

We ask that you remind your contractors and food delivery individuals that solicitation is prohibited.   Your assistance is greatly appreciated.

See you @ First Night!

To submit an article or idea or to join the Newsletter committee, please contact Lee Hernly via email.

Hong Kong (CNN) — Nestled within Hong Kong’s dense skyscraper jungle, a $640,000 property sits among some of the world’s most expensive commercial and residential spaces.

The price might sound like a steal. This Asian financial capital has the world’s priciest property, according to Savills. Since the start of 2010, average Hong Kong home prices have doubled.

But the price tag mentioned here is neither for a home nor an office.

It is for a parking space: A slab of undecorated concrete, stained by black motor oil, about 8-feet-by-16-feet in size. Price per square foot: nearly $5,000.

Jacinto Tong has owned and used this space for the past ten years. Described in local media as “the tycoon of parking spaces,” he is effusive when talking about this particular “priceless” gem.

“I think this is the best car park space I ever had,” said the CEO of Gale Well Group, a property firm that owns hundreds of residential and commercial spaces across the city. “You can go straight to the office and the elevator. Only 20 steps — 20 steps!”

Read more at this link.

Please contact Mark Eisenhour at 703-965-3418 if you’re interested or need more information.

Megan McGrath @ NBC Washington describes the new 495 express lanes:

View more videos at: http://nbcwashington.com.

Weather permitting, the Woodrow Wilson Bridge Project will be continuing road closures in the Telegraph Road area through this weekend. This work is expected to cause significant backups and motorists are strongly encouraged to find alternate routes. Variable message signs will be posted to alert drivers and provide detour information.

UPDATE: This post has been updated due to a change in schedule.

The work schedule is as follows:

Friday, Nov. 16 at 10 p.m. to Saturday, Nov. 17 at 5 a.m.

• Telegraph Road North will be closed between the ramp to Eisenhower Avenue and Duke Street.
  • Detours: Motorists headed to Duke Street should take the ramp to Eisenhower Avenue East to the traffic circle to Holland Lane to Duke Street. Motorists headed to the Inner Loop should take Eisenhower Avenue West to the Eisenhower Connector. Motorists headed to the Outer Loop should take Huntington Avenue East to U.S. Route 1 North to the Outer Loop.
• Telegraph Road South will be closed between Duke Street and Mill Road.
  • Detours: Motorists on Duke Street West should continue to Van Dorn Street South to the Outer Loop to Telegraph Road South. Motorists Duke Street East should continue to U.S. Route 1 South to Huntington Avenue West to Telegraph Road South.

The Alexandria Fire Department says it found what appears to be a hydrocarbon leak in the federal courthouse in Alexandria, Va. Monday night.

Fire officials have called in hazmat crews to identify and fix the source of the odor.

Officials say no one was in the building given the late hour and federal holiday.

For more information, visit www.gadsbystavern.org or call 703.746.4242.

On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, was declared between the Allied nations and Germany in the First World War, then known as “the Great War.” Commemorated as Armistice Day beginning the following year, November 11th became a legal federal holiday in the United States in 1938. In the aftermath of World War II and the Korean War, Armistice Day became Veterans Day, a holiday dedicated to American veterans of all wars.

Thank you to all of our veterans from Carlyle Towers Condominiums.

This weekend, we’ll see family, go to a football game, have a hot dog. We might go to a local parade or raise a flag.

But what does that flag really mean?

It honors the brave men and women who have given their lives for our country. But it’s also for the half million service members who are returning from war today with physical and hidden injuries — including traumatic brain injuries and post traumatic stress.

Most troops wounded in combat are surviving their injuries. They fought our battles. Now they fight their own: long rehabilitation, financial troubles, unemployment, family discord, including kids who are having problems coping.

REMIND.org is a public education movement of the Bob Woodruff Foundation that informs Americans about the needs of injured service members, veterans and their families as they reintegrate into their communities. REMIND.org empowers people everywhere to take action. Consider donating to help injured service members.

Support our troops is no longer a slogan. It’s an action.

1. Staff Holiday Fund Committee Appointed
2. Community Holiday Party – Scheduled for December 12th, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
3. Communications Committee – will be forwarding the Board a report in January regarding revising the format of the Chronicle and Communications guidelines.
4. Angel Tree Holiday Project Approved – watch Chronicle for details
5. Reconsideration of request for Pet Waiver (two cats) – Denied
6. An Ad Hoc Committee will be appointed to investigate the renovation/make recommendations to the Board regarding the indoor water facility at the East Building. Fran Mazarella was appointed as the Board’s Liaison. The Committee will be made up of members of the Replacement Reserve Committee and the Exercise Facilities Committee.

* The Board would like to ask residents to remind their contractors not to prop doors open on the property. We are finding doors left propped open – mostly in the loading docks and guest parking access areas. If you find a door propped open, please close it. Please help us control access to the buildings.

Interested residents can review the information presented to the Board; copies of the Board report are available at the front desk for you to review. They are made available the Friday before each Board meeting. The Board generally meets the first Wednesday of each month.

The repair of the canopy at the East Building will begin today (Friday, November 9, 2012). See the shot of the West building canopy above which has undergone the same repair. Specifically, the cleaning and painting of the metal structure supporting the columns and the replacement of the plexiglass atop the canopy. The duration of the project is scheduled for a 3 week time frame.

Admission is free, but it costs $15 for a 5×7 print that will be offered on-site.

The event will be held at the Bike and Roll Alexandria space located at 1 Wales Alley at the foot of King Street near Virtue Feed & Grain.

Dates and times for picture taking with Santa are:

• Nov. 24: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Nov. 25: noon – 5 p.m
• Dec. 1: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• Dec. 2: noon to 5 p.m.
• Dec. 8: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Dec. 9: noon to 5 p.m.
• Dec. 15: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Dec. 16: noon to 5 p.m.
• Dec. 22: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Dec. 23: noon to 5 p.m.

A Coastal Flood Warning remains in effect through 8 a.m. Wednesday. Flooding is expected to be minor. Current forecasts predict possible flooding in the 100 block of King Street early Thursday morning. No flooding of the City’s streams is expected. As a precaution, sandbags are being distributed until 6 p.m. today, October 30, at Market Square (301 King St). There’s a limit of five bags per vehicle, and residents will be asked to show ID.

Storm Debris Cleanup and Removal

The City is relaxing some of its normal requirements for removal of tree debris on private property until Tuesday, November 13. City crews will be collecting tree debris from the curb and public rights-of-way over the next week. If you remove tree debris on your property, place them on the curb in pieces that you can safely handle, even if you have alley collection. If a professional tree removal contractor is hired, they are required to remove all debris from the site.

The City reminds residents to stay away from tree limbs that may be leaning on power lines and to avoid downed wires; to report these, call Dominion Virginia Power at 1.866.DOM.HELP (1.866.366.4357).

Refuse and Recycling Collection

City refuse and recycling services (not leaf collection) will resume on Wednesday, October 31, with a delayed schedule.

• Monday’s collection will now occur on Wednesday.
• Tuesday’s collection will occur on Thursday.
• Wednesday’s collection will occur on Friday.
• Thursday’s collection occur on Saturday.

Leaf Collection

Leaf collection services will resume Monday, November 5. Bags will be collected at the front curb one business day after your regular refuse collection day. Due to severe weather and heavy rains, the City asks that residents not rake wet leaves into the street for collection until next week. Instead, residents should bag leaves for collection.

Loose Leaf Collection Updates

• Residents in Zone 2 should rake out on November 3, for pickup on November 5.
• Residents in Zone 3 should rake out on November 6, for pickup on November 8.
• Residents in Zone 4 should rake out on November 12, for pickup on November 14.
• Residents in Zone 1 should rake out on November 17, for pickup on November 19.

The Storm Hotline 703.746.HELP (4357) will close at 7 p.m. today. Residents with questions about blocked roadways, storm drains, or other emergency maintenance concerns should call 703.746.4488. Residents with questions about trash, recycling and leaf collection services should call 703.746.4410. General questions should be directed to 703.746.4800.

For more hurricane-related updates, see alexandriava.gov/Storm.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Carlyle Management

Residents without power are asked to report outages to Dominion Virginia Power at 866.DOM.HELP (866.366.4357). To report non-emergency issues related to Hurricane Sandy, call the City’s storm hotline, 703.746.HELP (4357). To report a police, fire or medical emergency, call 911. For up-to-date information, visit alexandriava.gov/Storm.

The City is experiencing minor coastal flooding. Union Street is blocked from Prince Street to Cameron Street, and King Street is blocked at Lee Street. A Coastal Flood Warning is in effect until 8 a.m. on Wednesday, October 31. If travel is necessary, do not walk or drive through flooded roadways. Motorists are asked to treat intersections with dark traffic signals as four-way stops.

All Alexandria government facilities, public schools, courts and non-emergency services remain closed or cancelled on Tuesday, October 30, and there will be no DASH or King Street Trolley service.  All trash collection services (including refuse, recycling and leaves) remain suspended.

Other weather-related announcements:

• The City will distribute sandbags between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. today at Market Square, in front of City Hall (301 King St.). There is a limit of five bags per vehicle, and residents will be asked to show ID.
• In-person absentee voting will resume today, October 30, at the Office of Voter Registration and Elections, 132 N. Royal St., from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. tonight.  There will be no voting today at Beatley Central Library.

For updated information, visit alexandriava.gov/Storm or follow the City’s social media at Twitter and Facebook, or sign up for eNews alerts.

REMINDER: Do NOT call the front desk in lieu of a power outage. Call Dominion Virginia Power directly at 1.866.DOM.HELP (1.866.366.4357).

See this link for Dominion Virginia Power’s outage map which will give you an idea when maybe the power will be back on if it does go out. Click on the dots for info on how many people affected, estimated restoration time and the cause of the outage.

Additionally, in-person absentee voting has been suspended for October 30, and there will be no DASH bus service that day.

Please check alexandriava.gov/Storm regularly for updates.

Here is a live video feed from The Weather Channel of their coverage as Hurricane Sandy comes ashore on the East Coast of the United States.

Public safety services, including 911, police, fire, sheriff, and jail services will operate as scheduled. Please prepare now for the possibility that you will be without power for several days.

If your power goes out, Dominion Virginia Power will not know about it unless you report it at 1.866.DOM-HELP (1-866-366-4357). If a power outage occurs, do not use candles under any circumstances because they are a fire hazard.

Please continue to check http://alexandriava.gov/Storm for updates.

Please check www.dashbus.com tomorrow afternoon for Tuesday, October 30 service updates.

Flooding

Residents are encouraged to prevent flooding and sewer backups in their homes and businesses by taking the following steps:

• Clear leaves, storm drains and sewer openings to prevent clogging.
• Check gutters and downspouts; clear debris from them if necessary.
• Inspect sump pumps to ensure they are working properly.
• Move furniture and other items from basements to upper floors if located in areas of the City prone to sanitary sewer backups.

Residents are asked to bag leaves for collection and expect potential delays in leaf collection services, which are scheduled to begin next week.  Please do not rake leaves into the street.

Power Outages

Residents should keep recommended emergency supplies on hand to be effectively prepared for extended power outages. To report power outages, residents must call Dominion Virginia Power at1.866.DOM.HELP (1.866.366.4357). If a power outage occurs, do not use candles under any circumstances because they are a fire hazard. Commercial building owners, managers, and engineers should check the emergency generators for their properties and ensure they are in proper working order.

Downed Trees and Tree Limbs

If a tree or major tree limb debris falls onto City streets, contact the Alexandria Police Department’s non-emergency number at 703.746.4444 to submit a report for tree removal.

Emergency Preparedness

Plan to be self-sustaining for at least three days by stocking your pantry with food that does not require refrigeration and ensuring that you have one gallon of water per person per day. Be sure to have emergency supplies on hand, including flashlights; a portable, battery-operated radio with extra batteries; first aid kit; a non-electric can opener; essential medicines; cash and credit cards; and sturdy shoes. For more emergency preparedness tips, visit www.ReadyVirginia.gov.

Other Safety Measures

Residents should bring in or secure garbage cans, lawn furniture, and other items that could be blown by high winds or become dangerous projectiles. Pets should also be brought inside for their safety.

For weather-related information, including information on cancellations and closings, visit alexandriava.gov/Storm. Residents may also follow the City on Twitter or Facebook, or sign up for eNews to get weather-related updates.

Governor Bob McDonnell has declared a state of emergency in Virginia in preparation for Hurricane Sandy, which is anticipated to affect the Commonwealth over the weekend and early next week. There is some uncertainty with the storm’s final track, but all forecasts call for significant impacts to Virginia. Sandy will be transitioning to an extratropical storm as it reaches Virginia, leading to a broader wind field with a wider reach across the Commonwealth. In addition, current models predict a slower storm and therefore a longer duration event than usual.

Based on current forecasts, the eastern third of Virginia could experience tropical storm force winds for more than 48 hours, several inches of rain and coastal flooding. Even inland areas of Virginia could see strong winds and significant rainfall. There is a strong possibility of extensive power outages. Residents in the western and southwestern parts of the state could see some snowfall, and all areas of the Commonwealth will experience colder temperatures in the wake of Sandy, which, when coupled with anticipated power outages, could produce additional challenges for Virginians.

Speaking about the State of Emergency, Governor McDonnell noted, “We are issuing this state of emergency today as a precautionary measure in order to ensure that we are ready for any potential effects of Hurricane Sandy in the Commonwealth. Weather forecasters are predicting significant weather impacts across much of Virginia, and a long duration event. Due to the track of this storm, and the fact that it will be a hurricane transitioning into a more nor’easter like system, we could see severe weather lasting for 48 hours or more in the state. In that scenario, saturated soil coupled with high winds could lead to major tree damage and extensive power outages. Now is the time for all Virginians to prepare for those possible power outages and disruptions to public services. In addition, forecasters predict falling temperatures during and behind this system, and in areas that suffer power outages this will lead to new challenges in the days after the storm departs. Virginians should make sure their family members, friends and neighbors are prepared for this storm. I encourage all Virginians to gather batteries, blankets, water, canned goods, and other necessities prior to the anticipated onset of storm conditions late Saturday and early Sunday.”

Eastern Virginia residents who live in low-lying areas should be ready to evacuate ahead of the storm. Citizens should listen to local TV and radio stations for instructions, such as an evacuation order for specific areas, details about evacuation routes and locations of evacuation shelters. If an evacuation is ordered for your area, take your emergency supplies with you, including all medications. For a list of suggested emergency supplies you should collect for your family, visit: http://www.vaemergency.gov/readyvirginia/getakit.

At this time, the Commonwealth does not plan to reverse lanes on Interstate 64, however a final decision on this matter will be reached this evening. Residents should review the evacuation routes for their area to determine the best route for their families. In the event that a mandatory evacuation is necessary in specific areas, citizens will be provided further instructions through local and state authorities.

A state of emergency is declared under state law so that state resources can be made available. The governor’s emergency declaration ensures a fully coordinated state response to support local initial recovery efforts. A declaration also decreases time needed to get personnel, equipment and supplies on scene.

State agencies are preparing for Sandy in the following ways:

• The Commonwealth has activated the Virginia Emergency Response Team.
• The Virginia Emergency Operations Center is coordinating the state’s response with increased staffing available 24 hours a day.
• Virginia State Police personnel have been placed on stand-by and will be pre-positioned to the areas where they will be needed based on the final projected path of the hurricane. The Virginia State Police Swift Water Rescue Team is standing by in strategic locations.
• Chainsaw crews from the Virginia Department of Forestry are standing by with emergency response personnel and to help with debris removal.
• Virginia Department of Transportation crews are ready to clear roads and ensure roads are safe for travel.
• The Virginia National Guard has been authorized to bring personnel on state active duty and begin prepositioning resources.
• The Virginia Department of Health is coordinating with hospitals and long-term care facilities to ensure that they are prepared for storm impacts.

Emergency preparedness is everyone’s responsibility. For information about preparing for Hurricane Sandy and for regular updates, visit http://www.vaemergency.gov/. For general information about the storm, dial 211.

Hurricane Sandy will be affecting our area early next week. For tips on how to prepare for this hurricane, click this link. The latest information about this storm can be found at this link.

The Expo, which is free and open to all, will feature exciting colorful interactive exhibits that illustrate the pervasive and important role trademarks play in our economy.  Visitors will learn about the many different kinds of trademarks such as sound, shape and color, and will also learn about the history and evolution of trademarks, some of which are more than 100 years old. Iconic trademarked characters like the Chester’s Cheetah, GEICO’s Gecko and Bob The Builder will make appearances during the two day event. They will be joined by the USPTO’s Trademark Expo character, T.Markey.

Click the link to read and download the poster for the event.

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CSX has responded to Old Town Alexandria Patch

Residents in Alexandria and surrounding areas may want to buy earplugs. The sound of train horns blaring at night will continue for a few more weeks.

CSX spokesman Bob Sullivan told Patch Thursday the horns are related to track work that CSX began earlier this week. The horns are part of a safety precaution taken to protect workers who are on or near the tracks.

“It’s part of our routine maintenance of our 21,000 miles of railroad in the eastern United States, and they are replacing cross ties and doing some other work,” Sullivan said.

Dozens of residents have complained on various online forums about hearing trains blow their hornes with unusual frequency late at night. Some residents told Patch the noise is preventing them from sleeping well.

read more at this link.

Meeting materials will be made available at www.alexandriava.gov/parkingstudies.

If you have questions or need further information, please contact Faye Dastgheib at 703.746.4139

• United Health Care,
• Cigna,
• Federal Blue Cross/Blue Shield,
• Medicare, and
• Amerigroup/Anthem.

Should you not have one of the aforementioned insurance coverage, the charge will be $25.99 for the vaccine.

A look at how Columbus Day came to be celebrated. Also, read this excellent op-ed in the Washington Examiner on Columbus Day.

The Alexandria Beautification Commission sponsors the Alexandria Beautification Awards each year recognizing community member’s special efforts to contribute to the beautification of their neighborhoods and public vistas with landscaping and overall aesthetic design. Nominations are made by members of the Commission and the community and are judged by members on the use of plants, texture and color, neighborhood context, marked improvements, and overall appearance. Winners are limited to properties visible from the public right of way.

Thank you to Coy Harris and the ad-hoc Landscaping Committee for your outstanding work as well as Courtney Manning, our in-house Landscaper, for his hard work.  We would also like to recognize the work of McFall and Berry; our landscape contractor.

Affordable Housing Advisory Committee – five vacancies: one representative who is a landlord of residential property in the City, due to an expired term; one faith community representative, due to a resignation; one vacancy for a representative from the Planning and Zoning Department due to a resignation; and one representative from the Department of Community and Human Services, due to a resignation. The Committee, whose members also serve on the Housing Master Plan Advisory Group, meets on the first Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m. for Housing Master Plan business. Separate Affordable Housing Advisory Committee meetings will be held at 6:30 the same evening on an as-needed basis. In the event Committee business is expected to take longer than 30 minutes, a special meeting will be held on an alternate date convenient to the majority of members. Approximately four to five hours per month are required of Committee members.

Alexandria ASAP (Alcohol Safety Action Program) Board – This is an existing board but its members will now be appointed by City Council. One vacancy for a public defender representative. The Board meets quarterly on the third Tuesday of the month at 4:00 p.m.

Alexandria Gang Task Force – one vacancy for a member from and representing the youth of the City, due to a resignation. The Task Force meets quarterly during the weekday evening. Approximately two hours per meeting are required of Task Force members.

Alexandria-Gyumri Sister City Committee – seven vacancies for citizen members due to resignations. The committee meets at 7:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of the month. Approximately three hours per month are required of Committee members.

Beautification Commission – one vacancy for a citizen member, due to a resignation. The Commission meets on the second Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m. Approximately eight hours per month are required of Commission members.

Children, Youth and Families Collaborative Commission – one vacancy for a member chosen by the Alexandria School Board, due to a resignation. The Commission meets on the second Wednesday of the month. Approximately eight hours per month are required of Commission members.

Citizen Corps Council – five vacancies: one representative from the Alexandria Chapter of the American Red Cross due to a resignation; one representative of an Alexandria civic association due to a resignation; one representative of the Alexandria business community, due to an expired term; one member designated by the Alexandria School Board due to a resignation; and one representative of the Crime Prevention Council, or an individual with law enforcement or crime prevention experience, due to a resignation. The Council meets on the fourth Monday of the month at 7:00 p.m. Approximately four hours per month are required of Council members.

Commission on Employment – one vacancy for a business representative from among recognized area businesses, including minority owned and small businesses, due to a resignation. The Commission meets on the second Tuesday of the month at 8:00 a.m. Approximately five hours per month are required of Commission members.

Commission on HIV/AIDS – five vacancies: one vacancy for a member representing an HIV/AIDS service organization that provides services in the City to the minority community, due to a resignation; one Alexandria chapter of the American Red Cross representative, due to an administrative action; one member from and representing the Inova Alexandria Hospital’s Department of Pastoral Services; one member from and representing the Community Services Board due to an expired term; and one member from and representing the City of Alexandria Public Schools due to an expired term. The Commission meets on the third Monday of the month at 7:00 p.m. Approximately three hours per month are required of Commission members.

Commission on Information Technology – four vacancies: one vacancy for a representative from the Budget and Fiscal Affairs Advisory Committee, due to a resignation; one vacancy for a member representing a provider of local telephone communication services in the City of Alexandria due to an expired term; one School Board representative, due to an administrative action; and one member representing the holder of the City’s cable television franchise, due to an administrative action. The Commission meets on the second Monday of every month. Approximately two hours per meeting are required of Commission members.

Commission on Persons with Disabilities – three vacancies: two vacancies for disabled citizens, due to resignations; and one representative of the business community, due to a resignation. The Commission meets at 7:00 p.m. on the second Wednesday of every month. Approximately six to ten hours a month are required of Commission members.

Community Criminal Justice Board – one vacancy for a representative of local education to be nominated by the Superintendent of Schools, due to a resignation. The Board meets quarterly on the first Thursday of the month at 4:00 p.m. Approximately two hours per month are required of Board members.

Economic Opportunities Commission – four vacancies: one for a representative of business, industry, labor, religious, welfare or other private groups and interests certified by the Commission, due to a resignation; two for representatives of low income individuals and families in the City of Alexandria, who must be democratically chosen as an EOC representative by the low-income members of the respective organization or geographic area, due to resignations; and one representative for Councilwoman Hughes, due to a resignation. The Commission meets on the third Wednesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. Approximately four hours per month are required of Commission members.

Emergency Medical Services Council – one vacancy for a representative of the Emergency Nurses Association from Alexandria Hospital due to an expired term. The Council meets quarterly at the call of the chair.

Environmental Policy Commission – three vacancies: two members from the field of environmental sciences (e.g., environmental/sanitary engineering, ecology, geology, botany, hydrology, chemistry) or who have Alexandria waterfront expertise, both due to resignations; and one vacancy for a representative from the Alexandria business community, due to a resignation. The Commission meets for a work session on the first Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m. and a regular meeting on the third Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. Approximately 15 hours per month are required of commission members.

George Washington Birthday Celebration Committee – nine vacancies: one citizen member, due to an expired term; one Alexandria Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution representative, due to a resignation; two business community representatives nominated by the Chamber of Commerce, one due to an expired term and one due to an expiring term; one member nominated by a veterans organization other than the Veterans of Foreign Wars or the American Legion, due to a resignation; one member nominated by the Veterans of Foreign Wars due to a resignation; one member nominated by the Alexandria Federation of Civic Associations due to a resignation; one member nominated by the Masonic Fraternity, due to a resignation; and one member who attends high school in the City of Alexandria, due to a resignation. The Committee meets on the third Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. Approximately three to five hours per month are required of Committee members.

Historic Alexandria Resources Commission – three vacancies: one citizen member, due to an expiring term; one representative from the Alexandria Society for the Preservation of Black Heritage due to a resignation; and one representative from Landmarks Society/Stabler Leadbeater due to an expired term. The Commission meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. The Commission does not meet in the summer. Approximately two hours per month are required of Commission members.

Human Rights Commission – one vacancy for a Landlord-Tenant Relations Board representative due to a resignation. The Commission meets on the third Tuesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. Approximately five hours per month are required of Commission members.

Local Emergency Planning Committee – one vacancy for an owner/operator of facilities subject to the federal emergency planning requirements of the Super Fund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986 (SARA), due to an expiring term. The Committee meets quarterly at the call of the chair. Approximately two hours per meeting are required of Committee members.

Park and Recreation Commission – one vacancy for high school youth in the City of Alexandria, due to a resignation. The Commission meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. Approximately ten hours per month are required of Commission members.

Public Health Advisory Commission – two vacancies: one vacancy for a health professional, who, at the time of appointment derive, or within the previous five years derived, their principal income from providing health care, health services or health related activities, due to expired terms; one vacancy for a physician practicing in the City nominated by the Alexandria Medical Society due to a resignation. The Commission meets on the third Thursday of the month at 5:30 p.m. Approximately four hours per month are required of Commission members.

Sister Cities Committee – two vacancies for representatives of the Alexandria-Gyumri Sister City Committee due to resignations. The Committee meets on the fourth Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. and participates in the Christmas Walk and Scottish games.

Social Services Advisory Board – one vacancy for a parent member, due to a resignation. The Board meets on the third Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. Approximately six hours per month are required of Commission members.

Waterfront Commission – one vacancy for a representative of the Old Town Business Association, due to an expiring term. The Committee meets on the third Tuesday of the month at 7:30 a.m. Approximately five hours per month are required of Committee members.

USS Alexandria Liaison Committee – one vacancy for a citizen member, due to an expired term. The Committee meets as needed.
Applicants may only submit an application to one committee at a time.

Please note that the term “expiring term” means the position vacancy is due to a term of an incumbent that is about to expire, and the incumbent may or may not reapply for the position.

All applicants must comply with City Ordinance No. 2452, which states that no appointee shall reside outside of the City of Alexandria unless a residency waiver is granted, and City Ordinance No. 2641, which states that City employees may not apply for vacancies on boards, committee or commissions that relate to the responsibilities of the department in which they are employed.

• AT6 Service between King St. Metro & Eisenhower Metro – Discontinued
  • Service along East Campus Drive – Discontinued
  • Service in the PTO/Carlyle area – Eliminated
• AT 7 Weekday service through The PTO/Carlyle area has been rerouted
  • Weekday service from Duke & Ripley – Extended to Landmark Mall
  • Saturday service – Discontinued
  • New route heads right down Jamieson Ave to Dulany Street – no loop through

For a complete list of route and schedule information, visit www.dashbus.com/Routes.

Help extinguish breast cancer by purchasing a pink t-shirt through the Alexandria Fire Department throughout the month of October.

Alexandria Fire Department employees will wear the shirts as part of their uniform every day in October. Shirt sizes range from Adult S-XXX; short-sleeve shirts sell for $15 and long-sleeve shirts sell for $20.

Stop by Station 201 located at 317 Prince Street in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia anytime to purchase your shirt. All proceeds from the sale of the shirts support the Alexandria Breast Cancer Walk Fund, which has helped over 5,000 uninsured Alexandria women receive free mammograms and other diagnostic screenings.

For more information, visit www.alexcancerwalk.com or call 703.746.5030.

For more information or to apply please choose one of the following options:

• Visit alexandriava.gov/Elections and click “Be a Precinct Election Officer”
• Call 703.746.4050 and ask to speak with Election Staff
• Email  angela.turner@alexandriava.gov

Action Alexandria is a great way to connect need with people willing to donate. This week, you can help the Center for Alexandria’s Children strengthen homeless families through play. Click this link to learn more.

All nominations must be submitted to the Office of the Arts, 1605 Cameron St., Alexandria, VA 22314 by 5 pm on Monday, November 26, 2012. The new Poet Laureate will be named in March of 2013.

Individuals can nominate themselves or be nominated by someone else. Nominees must be distinguished in the field of poetry through a body of work, published or unpublished. Nominees are limited to individuals who live, work or study in the City of Alexandria. Individual must live, work or study in the City of Alexandria for a minimum of 1 year prior to applying and through the 3-year term of service. If selected, individuals must be able to fulfill Poet Laureate ceremonial role, including presentations of work appropriate for all audiences and should be a minimum of 18 years of age. Members of the Alexandria Commission for the Arts and City of Alexandria staff are ineligible for nomination.

Amy Young, the City’s current Poet Laureate, is a resident of Alexandria and has read, studied and written poetry since she was a child growing up in Washington, DC. For the last 11 years, she has led the Writer’s Lab for 11 and 12 year olds with learning disabilities at the Lab School of Washington. She has also taught writing workshops at night for learning disabled adults. Amy has studied poetry in George Mason University’s Master of Fine Arts program and has been trained to lead intensive writing workshops for people from all walks of life.

Ms. Young was appointed to a three year term in April 2010 by the Poet Laureate Selection Panel. Since that time, she has initiated several new programs including the Arlandria Young Poets Club, “Dog Days of August” and Map Alexandria through Poetry and Photography.

Prior Ms. Young’s appointment, Mary McElveen was appointed to a three year term in April, 2007. Ms. McElveen was very active in the community, visiting schools, teaching poetry classes, creating and reading poems for City events, and bringing her love of poetry to many other places and events. Her appointment inspired interest in Poet Laureate programs in several other communities, including Fairfax County, VA and Santa Clara County, CA, which just appointed a Poet Laureate. Mary also worked with Office of the Arts to involve businesses, civic associations, libraries, schools, and recreation centers in National Poetry Month and Put a Poem in Your Pocket Day activities.

The City of Alexandria’s first and only Poet Laureate of record was Jean Elliott, a 78-year-old Alexandria resident. The Alexandria City Council voted Elliot as Poet in Residence and honored her by placing a plaque on her S. Fairfax St. home in 1979. She passed away in 1999.

The Commission and the Office of the Arts, a division of the Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities, work together to promote and cultivate the arts in the City of Alexandria. For more information, visit www.alexandriava.gov/arts or call 703.746.5588.

Fire Chief Adam Thiel and members of the Alexandria Fire Department recall their mission and where they were on September 11, 2001.

Alexandria has joined the regional Capital Bikeshare network, beginning with a pilot program providing eight bike share stations, with potential to add more stations as funding becomes available. Bikes are now available at these eight stations located throughout Old Town Alexandria, and can be used for transportation around town.

For more information on Capital Bikeshare, visit this link.

For example:

• You commute and work for 11 of the 13 hours the polls are open. (Take into account those days when traffic is heavy or the weather is bad and it takes longer than usual to get to and from work.)
• You are a caregiver for a confined family member.
• You are unable to go to the polls in person on Election Day because of an illness or disability.
• You will be absent from Alexandria on Election Day because of personal business, work, school, or vacation.

To learn more about these, and other circumstances in which absentee voting is an appropriate option, visit alexandriava.gov/Elections and click on “Absentee Voting,” or call 703.746.4050.

The Washington region has emerged from the recession looking even more affluent compared with the rest of the country, boasting seven of the 10 counties with the highest household incomes in the nation, new census numbers show.

With a median household income surpassing $119,000, Loudoun County heads the list. Fairfax County, at nearly $106,000, is second. Both have held the same positions for several years running.

More surprising, Arlington County leapfrogged from the fifth spot to third, with a median household income of almost $101,000, a $6,000 gain in one year. Four in 10 households in the county are single person, leaving Arlington with a relatively small share of residents whose affluence comes from two incomes, compared with Loudoun and Fairfax.

Other counties in the top 10 are Howard, Prince William, Fauquier and Montgomery, which had dropped out of it in 2010. Among states, Maryland has the nation’s highest household income level, and Virginia is ninth.

Read more at this link.

The Commission and the Office of the Arts, a division of the Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities, work together to promote and cultivate the arts in the City of Alexandria. For more information, visit www.alexandriava.gov/arts or call 703.746.5588.

For more information,. visit this link.

Alexandria ASAP (Alcohol Safety Action Program) Board – This is an existing board but its members will now be appointed by City Council. One vacancy for a public defender representative. The Board meets quarterly on the third Tuesday of the month at 4:00 p.m.

Alexandria Gang Task Force – one vacancy for a member from and representing the youth of the City, due to a resignation. The Task Force meets quarterly during the weekday evening. Approximately two hours per meeting are required of Task Force members.

Alexandria-Caen Sister City Committee – two vacancies for citizen members, one due to an expiring term and one due to a resignation. The committee meets on the second Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. Approximately four hours per month are required of committee members.

Alexandria-Gyumri Sister City Committee – seven vacancies for citizen members due to resignations. The committee meets at 7:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of the month. Approximately three hours per month are required of Committee members.

Carr/Norfolk Southern (Carlyle) Design Review Board – one vacancy for a citizen member, due to an expiring term. The Board meets as needed.

Citizen Corps Council – five vacancies: one representative from the Alexandria Chapter of the American Red Cross due to a resignation; one representative of an Alexandria civic association due to a resignation; one representative of the Alexandria business community, due to an expired term; one member designated by the Alexandria School Board due to a resignation; and one representative of the Crime Prevention Council, or an individual with law enforcement or crime prevention experience, due to a resignation. The Council meets on the fourth Monday of the month at 7:00 p.m. Approximately four hours per month are required of Council members.

Commission on Aging – one vacancy for a Commission for Women representative, due to an expiring term. The Commission meets on the second Thursday of every month, except in July and August, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Approximately four to six hours of work per month are required of Commission members.

Commission on Employment – one vacancy for a business representative from among recognized area businesses, including minority owned and small businesses, due to a resignation. The Commission meets on the second Tuesday of the month at 8:00 a.m. Approximately five hours per month are required of Commission members.

Commission on HIV/AIDS – five vacancies: one vacancy for a member representing an HIV/AIDS service organization that provides services in the City to the minority community, due to a resignation; one Alexandria chapter of the American Red Cross representative, due to an administrative action; one member from and representing the Inova Alexandria Hospital’s Department of Pastoral Services; one member from and representing the Community Services Board due to an expired term; and one member from and representing the City of Alexandria Public Schools due to an expired term. The Commission meets on the third Monday of the month at 7:00 p.m. Approximately three hours per month are required of Commission members.

Commission on Information Technology – four vacancies: one vacancy for a representative from the Budget and Fiscal Affairs Advisory Committee, due to a resignation; one vacancy for a member representing a provider of local telephone communication services in the City of Alexandria due to an expired term; one School Board representative, due to an administrative action; and one member representing the holder of the City’s cable television franchise, due to an administrative action. The Commission meets on the second Monday of every month. Approximately two hours per meeting are required of Commission members.

Commission on Persons with Disabilities – four vacancies: three vacancies for disabled citizens, due to resignations; and one representative of the business community, due to a resignation. The Commission meets at 7:00 p.m. on the second Wednesday of every month. Approximately six to ten hours a month are required of Commission members.

Community Criminal Justice Board – one vacancy for a representative of local education to be nominated by the Superintendent of Schools, due to a resignation. The Board meets quarterly on the first Thursday of the month at 4:00 p.m. Approximately two hours per month are required of Board members.

Economic Opportunities Commission – four vacancies: one for a representative of business, industry, labor, religious, welfare or other private groups and interests certified by the Commission, due to a resignation; two for representatives of low income individuals and families in the City of Alexandria, who must be democratically chosen as an EOC representative by the low-income members of the respective organization or geographic area, due to resignations; and one representative for Councilwoman Hughes, due to a resignation. The Commission meets on the third Wednesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. Approximately four hours per month are required of Commission members.

Emergency Medical Services Council – one vacancy for a representative of the Emergency Nurses Association from Alexandria Hospital due to an expired term. The Council meets quarterly at the call of the chair.

Environmental Policy Commission – two vacancies: one member from the field of environmental sciences (e.g., environmental/sanitary engineering, ecology, geology, botany, hydrology, chemistry) or who have Alexandria waterfront expertise, due to a resignation; and one vacancy for a representative from the Alexandria business community, due to a resignation. The Commission meets for a work session on the first Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m. and a regular meeting on the third Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. Approximately 15 hours per month are required of commission members.

George Washington Birthday Celebration Committee – nine vacancies: one citizen member, due to an expiring term; one Alexandria Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution representative, due to a resignation; two business community representatives nominated by the Chamber of Commerce, one due to an expired term and one due to an expiring term; one member nominated by a veterans organization other than the Veterans of Foreign Wars or the American Legion, due to a resignation; one member nominated by the Veterans of Foreign Wars due to a resignation; one member nominated by the Alexandria Federation of Civic Associations due to a resignation; one member nominated by the Masonic Fraternity, due to a resignation; and one member who attends high school in the City of Alexandria, due to a resignation. The Committee meets on the third Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. Approximately three to five hours per month are required of Committee members.

Historic Alexandria Resources Commission – two vacancies: one representative from the Alexandria Society for the Preservation of Black Heritage due to a resignation; and one representative from Landmarks Society/Stabler Leadbeater due to an expired term. The Commission meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. The Commission does not meet in the summer. Approximately two hours per month are required of Commission members.

Human Rights Commission – one vacancy for a Landlord-Tenant Relations Board representative due to a resignation. The Commission meets on the third Tuesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. Approximately five hours per month are required of Commission members.

Local Emergency Planning Committee – one vacancy for an owner/operator of facilities subject to the federal emergency planning requirements of the Super Fund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986 (SARA), due to an expiring term. The Committee meets quarterly at the call of the chair. Approximately two hours per meeting are required of Committee members.

Park and Recreation Commission – one vacancy for high school youth in the City of Alexandria, due to a resignation. The Commission meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. Approximately ten hours per month are required of Commission members.

Public Health Advisory Commission – two vacancies: one vacancy for a health professional, who, at the time of appointment derive, or within the previous five years derived, their principal income from providing health care, health services or health related activities, due to an expiring term; one vacancy for a physician practicing in the City nominated by the Alexandria Medical Society due to a resignation. The Commission meets on the third Thursday of the month at 5:30 p.m. Approximately four hours per month are required of Commission members.

Real Estate Assessments Review Board – one vacancy for a citizen member, due to a resignation. Applicants must be residents of and own real property within the City of Alexandria. The Board meets three times per week from June through December at the call of the chair.

Sister Cities Committee – two vacancies for representatives of the Alexandria-Gyumri Sister City Committee due to resignations. The Committee meets on the fourth Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. and participates in the Christmas Walk and Scottish games.

Social Services Advisory Board – one vacancy for a parent member, due to a resignation. The Board meets on the third Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. Approximately six hours per month are required of Commission members.

Urban Design Advisory Committee – one vacancy for a representative of the Old Town North residential community, due to an expiring term.

USS Alexandria Liaison Committee – one vacancy for a citizen member, due to an expired term. The Committee meets as needed.

——-

Applicants may only submit an application to one committee at a time.

Please note that the term “expiring term” means the position vacancy is due to a term of an incumbent that is about to expire, and the incumbent may or may not reapply for the position.

All applicants must comply with City Ordinance No. 2452, which states that no appointee shall reside outside of the City of Alexandria unless a residency waiver is granted, and City Ordinance No. 2641, which states that City employees may not apply for vacancies on boards, committee or commissions that relate to the responsibilities of the department in which they are employed.

Members of the Human Rights Commission are available to assist any person or attend any meeting to explain the board and commission application process. To request such assistance, contact Jean Niebauer at 703 746-3140.

For further information about the vacancies or responsibilities of these boards and commissions, contact Jackie Henderson in the City Clerk/Clerk of Council Office at 703 746-4550.

A shot of the U.S. flag at half-staff in honor of Ambassador Chris Stevens at 2051 Jamieson Ave located right near our complex.

Lee-Fendall House is located at 614 Oronoco Street in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia.

Took this shot outside the restaurant this morning.

Starting August 17, 2012, for 10 days this summer, 55 restaurants throughout Alexandria offer a $35 prix-fixe three-course dinner or $35 dinner for two (including restaurants in our Carlyle neighborhood). Foodies can savor the flavors of Alexandria’s distinctive collection of eateries, from fine dining to casual neighborhood gems. Alexandria is known for its independently owned and chef-driven restaurants. Check out this link in our community’s online events calendar for more information about Alexandria’s Restaurant Week.

Please be aware, beginning tomorrow, August 14th, the 4th floor door leading to and from the recreation deck will be locked between the hours of 8:30 am and 5:00 pm Monday – Friday. The reason for securing the door is the exterior work taking place near the proximity of the door. We will unlock the door after 5:00 pm.

In case of an emergency, please exit via the stairwell doors located at each end of the corridors.

The Festival includes:

• Ease into Back to School Dinners —  live cooking demonstrations from Michael Kiss, their Cooking Coach
•  Build a Better Lunch Box — information from Lindsay, their Healthy Eating Specialist on how to pack a healthy lunch
• Back to School Supply Drive — “Fill the Bus” with school supplies to benefit Alexandria Public School students in need
• Fill Your Backpack  —  raffles and tasty giveaways from Whole Foods’ vendors  Enter to win backpacks or lunch boxes and other school supplies from Crocodile Creek
• Whole Kids Foundation – Information on how to apply for a Whole Foods Foundation grant to put salad bars or a vegetable garden in your school
• Fun for Kids — face painting, “tattoos,” live music and more.
• Art-tastic — MySocial Canvas will host an art contest for kids

Thank you for supporting your local community.

Enjoy traditional Irish music and dancers, arts, crafts, jewelry, paintings, souvenirs, and more! Admission is free and the event will be held rain or shine.

The Work Group will summarize their Residential Parking Permit (RPP) policies discussions.  Also on the agenda is the Citywide Employee Handicapped Parking Permit Program.

Meeting materials will be made available at www.alexandriava.gov/parkingstudies.

If you have questions or need further information, please contact Faye Destgheib at 703.746.4139.

Weather permitting, the Woodrow Wilson Bridge Project will continue ramp and road closures in the Telegraph Road/Capital Beltway interchange this week and weekend. This work will cause significant local traffic impacts and motorists are encouraged to use alternate routes. Variable message signs will be posted to alert drivers and provide detour information.

The scheduled work is as follows, roughly in chronological order:

Monday, Aug. 6 OVERNIGHT from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. the next morning:

• The right lane of Inner Loop LOCAL (I-95/495 South) will be closed between U.S. Route 1 and Telegraph Road. All other lanes will remain open.
• The access ramps from U.S. Route 1 North and South to the Inner Loop LOCAL will be closed. Detours: Motorists will be routed to the Inner Loop THRU Lanes. Access to the Telegraph Road ramps will be closed.

Monday, Aug. 6 OVERNIGHT from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. the next morning:

• The left lane of the Outer Loop (I-95/495 North) will be closed between the Van Dorn and Eisenhower Connector interchanges. There will be a complete closure for 15 minutes just after midnight.

Monday, Aug. 6 and Tuesday, Aug. 7 NIGHTLY from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. the next morning:

• The Inner Loop and Outer Loop exit ramps to Telegraph Road North will be closed. Detours: Inner Loop travelers should continue to the Eisenhower Connector exit to Eisenhower Avenue East to the traffic circle to Holland Lane to Duke Street. Outer Loop travelers should take the Eisenhower Avenue exit and stay straight onto Stovall Street to left on Pershing Avenue to Telegraph Road North.
• The Inner Loop exit ramp to Pershing Avenue will be closed. Detour: Continue to the Eisenhower Connector exit to Eisenhower Avenue East to Stovall Street.

Monday, Aug. 6 through Wednesday, Aug. 8 NIGHTLY from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. the next morning:

• The exit ramp from the Inner Loop to Telegraph Road South will be closed. Detour: Motorists should continue on the Inner Loop to the Eisenhower Connector to Eisenhower Avenue East to Telegraph Road South.

Monday, Aug. 6 through Thursday, Aug. 9 NIGHTLY from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. the next morning:

• The access ramps from Telegraph Road North and South to the Inner Loop will be closed. Detours: Northbound motorists should continue to Duke Street West to Van Dorn South to on-ramp to the Inner Loop. Southbound motorists should continue to the ramp to Huntington Avenue East to U.S. Route 1 North to the on-ramp to the Inner Loop.

Tuesday, Aug. 7 through Thursday, Aug. 9 DAILY from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Friday, Aug. 10 from 9:30 a.m. to noon:

• The exit ramp from the Outer Loop to Telegraph Road South will be closed. Detour: Motorists should continue to U.S. Route 1 South to right on Huntington Avenue West to left on Telegraph Road South.

Tuesday, Aug. 7 and Wednesday, Aug. 8 NIGHTLY from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. the next morning:

• The access ramps from Telegraph Road North and South to the Outer Loop will be closed. Detours: Northbound motorists should continue to Huntington Avenue East to U.S. Route 1 North to the on-ramp to the Outer Loop. Southbound motorists should continue to Duke Street East to U.S. Route 1 South to the on-ramp to the Outer Loop.

Tuesday, Aug. 7, Thursday, Aug. 9 and Friday, Aug. 10 NIGHTLY from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. the next morning:

• The exit ramp from the Outer Loop to Telegraph Road North will be closed. Detour: Motorists should continue to U.S. Route 1 North to Duke Street.

Wednesday, Aug. 8 and Thursday, Aug. 9 NIGHTLY from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. the next morning; ALSO CONTINUOUSLY from 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 10 to 5 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 13:

• The Outer Loop exits to Huntington Avenue, N. Kings Highway and Telegraph Road South will be closed. Detours: Motorists should continue to U.S. Route 1 South to right on Huntington Avenue West to Telegraph Road to N. Kings Highway.

Thursday, August 9 OVERNIGHT 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. the next morning:

• Southbound Telegraph Road will be completely closed between Duke Street and the Beltway. Detour signs will be posted on the road.
• The ramp from Duke Street East to Telegraph Road South will be closed. Detour: Continue onto U.S. Route 1 South to right on Huntington Avenue West to Telegraph Road.
• The ramp from Duke Street West to Telegraph Road South will be closed. Detour: Continue onto Van Dorn Street South to Franconia Road East to Telegraph Road.
• Mill Road will be completely closed between Stovall Street and the Mill Road connector. Detour signs will be posted on the road.

Please use caution when traveling in this area. All construction-related work and dates are subject to change, depending on weather, material and contractor availability or other unforeseen conditions. Go to www.wilsonbridge.com for the latest traffic and project information.

The results of the recent election were as follows:

• Jeff Cawley was newly elected to the Board.
• Gerry Binker was reelected to the Board.
• Francesca Mazzarella was elected to the Board.

Congratulations to all and thank you for volunteering your time to serve your fellow members of the Association.

Carlyle Towers Condominiums was recently notified by the Alexandria Beautification Commission that it is a recipient of a 2012 Alexandria Beautification Award.

Each year the Commission sponsors the annual Alexandria Beautification Awards recognizing residents, businesses and public sector efforts to contribute to the  beautification of their neighborhoods and public vistas.  The Commission also solicits award nominations from the public.

Nominations are based on the following criteria:

• Visibility from public right of way – judging is limited to property visible from the public right of way
• Overall appearance in relation to the surrounding neighborhood
• Noticeable improvement
• Maintenance
• Landscaping accents and elements

Congratulations and thank you to Coy Harris and the Landscaping Committee as well as the hard work of our in-house Landscaper Courtney Manning and the the support we receive from McFall and Berry.

A new pub is being constructed inside the Whole Foods Market Old Town store right near Carlyle Towers where I’m told it will be serving all kinds of beer, coffee and other items.

Decades of tragic experience have proved that fireworks are too dangerous to be used at home by amateurs.  Improper handling of fireworks and sparklers all too often results in injuries.  Some interesting statistics:

• In 2010, U.S. hospital emergency rooms saw an estimated 8,800 people for fireworks-related injuries.  (Source: CPSC’s NEISS)
• Half (52%) of the 2010 fireworks injuries were burns, while one-fifth (21%) were contusions and lacerations.
• Two of five (39%) people injured by fireworks were under the age of 15.
• Males accounted for 65% of the injuries.
• The risk of fireworks injury was highest for children ages 5-14 with more than twice the risk for the general population.
• Sparklers, fountains and novelties alone accounted for 43% of the emergency room fireworks injuries in 2010.

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend one of the many public displays.  Alexandrians can enjoy the excitement and beauty of fireworks at City-sponsored events.  These programs are presented by professionals working in compliance with City codes and ordinances.  For information on these events, call the Alexandria Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities special events line at 703.746.5592 or 703.746.5418.

$470,000, 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, 1,100 sq ft, NEW kitchen, appliances, vanities, air conditioning/heating, $2,000 Seller subsidy toward flooring.

NEW fully- upgrd sage-green kitchen with all new maple, soft close cabinetry, Uba Tuba granite counters, SS Whirlpool GOLD appliances. Matching maple cabinetry & granite in bathrooms. Halogen track lighting & wrought-iron dining chandelier. NEW Air Cond and Heating. NEW paint throughout. Enclosed balcony. $2,000 flooring subsidy. Storage bin. Garage parking. Gym. Pool. Walk to Metro, shops, restaurants. For more information, visit http://www.judburke.com or call 703.966.8343.

Lawn seating, you are welcome to bring a blanket or folding chair to enjoy the music.

Hope to see you there!

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Memorial Day is the day that we salute all the women and men who have served our country and given their life in the name of freedom. In war and peace these brave individuals make sacrifices far beyond what most of us appreciate. In the name of freedom, they give up the comfort and convenience of civilian life in order to protect our rights and liberties. Without their devotion to duty and dedication to freedom there simply would not be a United States of America.

On this Memorial Day, please make a point of remembering those women and men who have given the last full measure of devotion in the cause of freedom.

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Three big events in Washington this weekend, mixed with Metro track work, could bring delays and problems for riders. News4’s Jane Watrel reports.

View more videos at: http://nbcwashington.com.

Thank you for your support!

Sometimes, the greatest way to make an environmental impact is through individual action. Bike to Work Day is an annual, national day of local action where individual bikers make the decision to ride their bike to work. As they meet up with other bikers, their numbers grow to visually demonstrate a growing popular movement. In Washington, DC, the government is responding with programs to accommodate and encourage more bicyclists.

For a listing of more events in our area, visit this link.

If you are unfamiliar about what Bike To Work Day is, here’s a great video on this growing movement.

If you have ever wondered what it is like to bike to work from Alexandria, see this really cool video.

Derrick Ward at NBC Washington reports:

View more videos at: http://nbcwashington.com.

The Alexandria Commission for the Arts (ACA) is accepting proposals through April 20, 2012 for the temporary placement or experience of art in public spaces through a special opportunity grant.  The ACA is seeking innovative, thought-provoking projects by artists that relate to a proposed space or spaces in an engaging way.  All artistic disciplines will be considered including, but not limited to: visual art, storytelling, poetry, spoken word, dance, music, theatre, performance art, and new media.

The purpose of the project is to promote the artwork of artists and increase awareness of the potential for public art within the community.  In addition, the project should foster community participation in and understanding of public art projects.  Creativity is encouraged, and we hope these temporary public art experiences will provide people in their communities with a moment of surprise, beauty, deep thought, or humor.  We are looking for projects that will engage a broad audience.

Each project will be awarded up to $2,700 to cover all expenses including, but not limited to, artist fees.   The total amount to be awarded is $8,100.  The project duration can be a maximum of six months, beginning no later than June 30, 2012.

To review grant guidelines and submission requirements, visit www.alexandriava.gov/arts. Grant applications may be submitted electronically to aca@alexandriava.gov or at the Durant Arts Center, 1605 Cameron Street, Alexandria, VA  22314, Monday– Thursday, 9 a.m. – 10 p.m. or Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

For more information, contact the Alexandria Commission for the Arts at 703.746.5588 or aca@alexandriava.gov.

A Wegmans  was delivered to my mailbox Thursday.

Not the store, yet, but an invitation to the long-awaited groundbreaking for the Wegmans at Hilltop Village Center in the Alexandria section of Fairfax County.Weingarten Realty Investors, the Houston-based investment trust that purchased the 33-acre shopping center site last fall for $13.6 million, will host the scheduled April 2 event.

“Hallelujah,” I imagine Alexandria-area residents are saying (because I’m an Alexandria resident and I’m saying it). The Wegmans is a well-known top priority for Lee District neighbors. That, and Vornado’s   redevelopment of the Springfield Mall, which may kick off as soon as this summer.

Site work started some time ago at the future Hilltop Village Center, which is near the Telegraph Road and Beulah Street intersection. But the anchor of the mixed-use project, the end-all-be-all of supermarkets, remained something of an unknown. Wegmans builds its owns stores at its own pace. The Wegmans website continues to say “TBD” for the Alexandria location.

Read more at this link.

Via Old Town Alexandria Patch:

Find out what can go in our recycling bins at Carlyle Towers Condominiums by visiting our utilities information page.

Sometimes, the greatest way to make an environmental impact is through individual action.

Bike to Work Day is an annual, national day of local action where individual bikers make the decision to ride their bike to work. As they meet up with other bikers, their numbers grow to visually demonstrate a growing popular movement. In Washington, DC, the government is responding with programs to accommodate and encourage more bicyclists.

Here’s an awesome video on this growing movement:

Below, you’ll find the long version of the video located in our sidebar on the right side of the screen. This video was produced by the Alexandria Convention & Visitors Association and details the many things there are to do and see in Alexandria, Virginia.