Well we started our business of the week with the tried and true Bob and Edith's Diner last week...so let's go with a healthy alternative and a brand new business this week...Journey Yoga. Yes, we now have our own yoga studio on Columbia Pike.
Not only do they have classes for all ages...they have a green studio! Click here to see all the ways they are trying to save the Earth.
If you've tried out this studio...please let us know your thoughts!
Journey Yoga
2628 Columbia Pike
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Guest Blogger Report - Beautiful Women and President Madison
Good Afternoon, I'm very happy to announce a guest blogger report from a resident in the Village. I'm always encouraged to hear from other residents that would like to improve upon Arlington Village and know that they view the blog as a positive way to discuss the things that are happening in our community. Feel free to send items that you would like to see on the blog or send in reports about the things you deem important in the Village...you can find my email address listed on my profile page.
Guest Blogger Report.
Answering the call, I have tasked myself with investigating and reporting on the new security features in the laundry rooms. As many of you know, Arlington Village recently installed peepholes in the doors of laundry rooms. Herewith is my report.
Well, actually, I can’t speak to the installation of peepholes in all the laundry rooms - as I only went to one. But that one was a veritable font of information. And paramount among my findings was this: Arlington Village has the most beautiful women in the world.
Now, I already knew this. But it is nice to know that others share my opinion.
Although I happen to agree with the conclusions of Arlington Village Peephole Committee, dear reader, I’m compelled to remind you that it is not my opinion expressed here, but a detailed analysis of the opinions of the Arlington Village Peephole Committee rendered by careful study of the peephole in, well, one laundry room. The most beautiful women in the world, and I couldn’t agree more.
Let me explain:
The peephole measures 62 inches from the floor.
The average woman’s overall height measures 63.7 inches from the floor (5’3.7”).
The average woman’s eye measures 59.4 inches from the floor.
The average distance between the average woman’s eye and the top of her head measures 4.1 inches.
Now, to the untrained eye, this would appear that the peephole is too high for the average woman; and I too, was stumped.
Until I remembered that the women of Arlington Village are NOT average. They’re beautiful. Like Miss America! And lo’ and behold, the average height of Miss America is 5’6 ½”. Making her eye height ½” higher than the peephole. Perfect for leaning forward and peeping.
So be safe all you beautiful women of Arlington Village as you do your laundry. Were James Madison, our fourth President, doing his laundry… Well, he was only 5’4”, weighed 100 lbs, and probably not strong enough to open the laundry room door.
Guest Blogger Report.
Answering the call, I have tasked myself with investigating and reporting on the new security features in the laundry rooms. As many of you know, Arlington Village recently installed peepholes in the doors of laundry rooms. Herewith is my report.
Well, actually, I can’t speak to the installation of peepholes in all the laundry rooms - as I only went to one. But that one was a veritable font of information. And paramount among my findings was this: Arlington Village has the most beautiful women in the world.
Now, I already knew this. But it is nice to know that others share my opinion.
Although I happen to agree with the conclusions of Arlington Village Peephole Committee, dear reader, I’m compelled to remind you that it is not my opinion expressed here, but a detailed analysis of the opinions of the Arlington Village Peephole Committee rendered by careful study of the peephole in, well, one laundry room. The most beautiful women in the world, and I couldn’t agree more.
Let me explain:
The peephole measures 62 inches from the floor.
The average woman’s overall height measures 63.7 inches from the floor (5’3.7”).
The average woman’s eye measures 59.4 inches from the floor.
The average distance between the average woman’s eye and the top of her head measures 4.1 inches.
Now, to the untrained eye, this would appear that the peephole is too high for the average woman; and I too, was stumped.
Until I remembered that the women of Arlington Village are NOT average. They’re beautiful. Like Miss America! And lo’ and behold, the average height of Miss America is 5’6 ½”. Making her eye height ½” higher than the peephole. Perfect for leaning forward and peeping.
So be safe all you beautiful women of Arlington Village as you do your laundry. Were James Madison, our fourth President, doing his laundry… Well, he was only 5’4”, weighed 100 lbs, and probably not strong enough to open the laundry room door.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Saturday Hours for AV Office
Yes, I've said it out loud...does anyone think that the AV office hours are a little out of whack? How great would it be to have someone in the office on Saturdays? Even if the hours were just 9AM to 1 PM...how much more convenient would that be?
Or...what if someone took an early shift and the other person in the office took a later shift during the work week? Perhaps a 7AM to 4PM slot and a 9AM to 6PM slot?
I think those kind of hours would be greatly appreciated by the residents and make Arlington Village run a lot more smoothly. Anybody have problems with the office and think this would help?
Or...what if someone took an early shift and the other person in the office took a later shift during the work week? Perhaps a 7AM to 4PM slot and a 9AM to 6PM slot?
I think those kind of hours would be greatly appreciated by the residents and make Arlington Village run a lot more smoothly. Anybody have problems with the office and think this would help?
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Board Meeting and Bus Stops
Happy Tuesday! Yes, it is the last Tuesday of the month so feel free to attend the Board Meeting at 7:30 PM tonight. It is held in the AV office on S. Edgewood.
Also, if you didn't see this article the other day in the Post...check out the new "SUPER STOPS" that are being planned for Columbia Pike. Would you take the bus more often if you had heated seats and floors PLUS wi-fi? Here's the story...Next Stop for Columbia Pike: Super Stops for Buses. Maybe they'll use these stops for the trolleys as well?
Also, if you didn't see this article the other day in the Post...check out the new "SUPER STOPS" that are being planned for Columbia Pike. Would you take the bus more often if you had heated seats and floors PLUS wi-fi? Here's the story...Next Stop for Columbia Pike: Super Stops for Buses. Maybe they'll use these stops for the trolleys as well?
Monday, July 28, 2008
Spin Cycle or Permanent Press?
Yes, you may be wondering...where was our blogger this weekend? Have no fear, I was out prowling around our lovely laundry rooms. Yes...some people in Arlington Village still don't have washers/dryers crammed into their tiny closets or displayed in their kitchens. They choose to do laundry the old-fashioned way...laundromat style. :)
The whole reason I went on this quest is because I heard some discussion about the lack of maintenance in some of the laundry rooms. For instance, I was told that a few of the washing machines in one room have been broken for almost 2 months...plus one of the dryers doesn't really dry your clothes while the one next to it is WAY too hot.
Now the person(s) in question have called the office to report the problem a few times...but still no laundry repairman in sight. I noticed in the rooms that there is a telephone number on the machines to report the problem. Perhaps I should go and try and call the number and see what they say.
I didn't really see any other problems in the other laundry rooms that I could find in Arlington Village except for being a bit dusty. I know that I didn't go into all of them...however...the fact is no laundry room should go two months with broken machines.
One interesting point that everyone might like to know in case you are tired of bringing your blankets to the laundromat...there are commercial washers in some of the laundry rooms. I had no idea that we even had this in Arlington Village. Perhaps this should be listed some where on the website...
The whole reason I went on this quest is because I heard some discussion about the lack of maintenance in some of the laundry rooms. For instance, I was told that a few of the washing machines in one room have been broken for almost 2 months...plus one of the dryers doesn't really dry your clothes while the one next to it is WAY too hot.
Now the person(s) in question have called the office to report the problem a few times...but still no laundry repairman in sight. I noticed in the rooms that there is a telephone number on the machines to report the problem. Perhaps I should go and try and call the number and see what they say.
I didn't really see any other problems in the other laundry rooms that I could find in Arlington Village except for being a bit dusty. I know that I didn't go into all of them...however...the fact is no laundry room should go two months with broken machines.
One interesting point that everyone might like to know in case you are tired of bringing your blankets to the laundromat...there are commercial washers in some of the laundry rooms. I had no idea that we even had this in Arlington Village. Perhaps this should be listed some where on the website...
Friday, July 25, 2008
Arlington County Crime Reports
Ever wonder what bad guys the police are going after? Ever wonder if they found that stolen car that was taken from the Village? The place to go is the Arlington County Crime Report which is online for everyone to take a gander at...below is the report for yesterday:
July 24, 2008
LARCENY FROM AUTO (SERIES), 7/23/2008, 2000 block of N. Kensington St. Between 12 pm on July 19 and 10:30 am on July 23, someone entered four unlocked vehicles and took coins and one satellite radio.
LARCENY FROM AUTO, 7/23/2008, 900 block of N. Wayne St. Between 2:30 am and 6 am on July 23, someone took all four wheels and tires off a 2007 Chevrolet Corvette and left the vehicle on cinder blocks. 2 car covers were also stolen.
ROBBERY, 7/23/2008, 1100 block of S. Jefferson St. At approximately 11:20 pm on July 23, a 24 year old man was walking home from work when he was grabbed from behind and put in a choke hold by a male subject. A second suspect then took the victim’s wallet and kneed him in the groin. Both suspects then fled to a waiting vehicle driven by a third subject.
Stolen Autos
VA BZ 2733, 2007 TOYOTA FJ CRUISER, BLACK & WHITE 2600 block of S. Vance Ct.
If you'd like to get these directly sent to you...send an e-mail to Officer Nuneville and she will put you on the list. She's a great resource to Arlington Village.
Captain Michelle R. Nuneville - Commander
Arlington County Police Department
Operations Division - District 3
1425 N. Courthouse Road
Arlington, VA 22201
703-228-4097
mnuneville@arlingtonva.us
July 24, 2008
LARCENY FROM AUTO (SERIES), 7/23/2008, 2000 block of N. Kensington St. Between 12 pm on July 19 and 10:30 am on July 23, someone entered four unlocked vehicles and took coins and one satellite radio.
LARCENY FROM AUTO, 7/23/2008, 900 block of N. Wayne St. Between 2:30 am and 6 am on July 23, someone took all four wheels and tires off a 2007 Chevrolet Corvette and left the vehicle on cinder blocks. 2 car covers were also stolen.
ROBBERY, 7/23/2008, 1100 block of S. Jefferson St. At approximately 11:20 pm on July 23, a 24 year old man was walking home from work when he was grabbed from behind and put in a choke hold by a male subject. A second suspect then took the victim’s wallet and kneed him in the groin. Both suspects then fled to a waiting vehicle driven by a third subject.
Stolen Autos
VA BZ 2733, 2007 TOYOTA FJ CRUISER, BLACK & WHITE 2600 block of S. Vance Ct.
If you'd like to get these directly sent to you...send an e-mail to Officer Nuneville and she will put you on the list. She's a great resource to Arlington Village.
Captain Michelle R. Nuneville - Commander
Arlington County Police Department
Operations Division - District 3
1425 N. Courthouse Road
Arlington, VA 22201
703-228-4097
mnuneville@arlingtonva.us
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Pike Business of the Week - Bob and Edith's
In the next few years, there willl be a lot of development and new businesses and restaurants in the area. I thought maybe on Thursday's we could start highlighting area businesses close to Arlington Village. That way...if you have visited that establishment...we could get a review from our friends and neighbors.
Our first business is a great 24-hour diner located at 2310 Columbia Pike. It's been on the Pike forever and most of the entrees are $10 and below. Be ready to stand in line on weekend mornings though...it is quite popular because of the location and the prices...but definitely worth the wait in my opinion.
It should be noted that they had a second location further down the Pike which has closed recently. This location is now being looked at for development. Read the story from the Washington Business Journal which discusses the Pike's potential for development and the new trolley/streetcar proposal.
Our first business is a great 24-hour diner located at 2310 Columbia Pike. It's been on the Pike forever and most of the entrees are $10 and below. Be ready to stand in line on weekend mornings though...it is quite popular because of the location and the prices...but definitely worth the wait in my opinion.
It should be noted that they had a second location further down the Pike which has closed recently. This location is now being looked at for development. Read the story from the Washington Business Journal which discusses the Pike's potential for development and the new trolley/streetcar proposal.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Public Square Approved for Columbia Pike
I think this is great news for Arlington Village...a little extra green space would be great compared to all the concrete and buildings that are on the Pike at the moment. Read below for an excerpt from the story:
Master Plan includes large, flexible plaza, interactive water fountain, public art
The Arlington County Board late Monday night (July 21) approved the master plan for Penrose Square, the first and largest of three new squares planned for Columbia Pike’s Town Center that are key to the County’s efforts to transform the Pike.
“Penrose Square will provide a beautiful, well-planned public gathering place on Columbia Pike,” said Board Chairman J. Walter Tejada. “This is an important step forward in the County’s efforts to revitalize the Pike by turning it into a lively, pedestrian-friendly, mixed-use corridor with plenty of outdoor spaces where people can come together.”
The 33,000 sq. ft. square will be located on the north side of Columbia Pike between South Cleveland and South Barton Streets in what are now the existing surface parking lots of the Adams Square and Fillmore Shopping Centers. The square will face south, fronting on Columbia Pike.
For pictures and the full story go to the CPRO Website
Master Plan includes large, flexible plaza, interactive water fountain, public art
The Arlington County Board late Monday night (July 21) approved the master plan for Penrose Square, the first and largest of three new squares planned for Columbia Pike’s Town Center that are key to the County’s efforts to transform the Pike.
“Penrose Square will provide a beautiful, well-planned public gathering place on Columbia Pike,” said Board Chairman J. Walter Tejada. “This is an important step forward in the County’s efforts to revitalize the Pike by turning it into a lively, pedestrian-friendly, mixed-use corridor with plenty of outdoor spaces where people can come together.”
The 33,000 sq. ft. square will be located on the north side of Columbia Pike between South Cleveland and South Barton Streets in what are now the existing surface parking lots of the Adams Square and Fillmore Shopping Centers. The square will face south, fronting on Columbia Pike.
For pictures and the full story go to the CPRO Website
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Who needs Batman when Spiderman is down the street?
Sick of gas prices? Want some place to go nearby for decent entertainment? Why not try out the Outdoor Movie Festival in Shirlington? You could take a nice walk down there, bike or take the bus. Who knows...make a night out of it and get dinner and a movie or just picnic.
The movie Spiderman 3 starts at 8:45 PM tomorrow night. See the link above for more event information. My spidey sense says that you'll have a webtastic time!
The movie Spiderman 3 starts at 8:45 PM tomorrow night. See the link above for more event information. My spidey sense says that you'll have a webtastic time!
Monday, July 21, 2008
Town Hall Meeting: To plant or not to plant on 13th Road???
The new plans for the rest of the 13th Road plantings will be held on Tuesday night, July 22nd! Make sure that you come and listen to the plans for the area...which will only cost about $14,000 per section. I believe there are 3 sections that the Grounds Committee wants to see finished...however only 2 would be done this year.
If you can, I suggest at looking at what the initial plantings look like at the moment on 13th Road. I have no idea why those plants cost so much...so hopefully this will be fully explained at the meeting. There are a lot of purple wild flower looking things...thus my confusion. I thought I saw seeds for that at the local CVS?
In addition, I'd like to see how these initial plants flourish...and then decide to spend another $30 or $40 thousand dollars to do the same thing again all the way down the road. Why do we have to hurry to spend money?
Residents should also take into consideration the gutter system that would be included...since the new system clogs very easily on 13th Road as a result of the upgrades. I mentioned this in my June 17th post if you want more details.
If you can, I suggest at looking at what the initial plantings look like at the moment on 13th Road. I have no idea why those plants cost so much...so hopefully this will be fully explained at the meeting. There are a lot of purple wild flower looking things...thus my confusion. I thought I saw seeds for that at the local CVS?
In addition, I'd like to see how these initial plants flourish...and then decide to spend another $30 or $40 thousand dollars to do the same thing again all the way down the road. Why do we have to hurry to spend money?
Residents should also take into consideration the gutter system that would be included...since the new system clogs very easily on 13th Road as a result of the upgrades. I mentioned this in my June 17th post if you want more details.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Plant Removal and Luah Pool Party
Tell me Tell me Tell me...what did you think of this weekend's Arlington Village Events. Did you like them, how would you improve them and do you have any other ideas for events that residents would enjoy?
Friday, July 18, 2008
Invasive Plant Removal on Saturday 7/19
This is your chance to do something for Arlington Village...besides paying your condo fees! Yes, from 9 AM to 12 Noon they will be making the ravine a safe place for native plants.
Make sure to wear protective clothing and it wouldn't hurt to bring your garden gloves if you have them. I believe they might even be treating residents to pizza afterwards as a reward for all of your hard work!
Make sure to wear protective clothing and it wouldn't hurt to bring your garden gloves if you have them. I believe they might even be treating residents to pizza afterwards as a reward for all of your hard work!
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
On the Lookout for Pink Flamingos
I know it may sound strange but there are people that have pink flamingos in Arlington Village. Personally, I'm not sure if they are really my style...I'm more of a "yard gnome" person. I like to watch the travelocity commercials.
Alas, I've finally been confided in that the Grounds Committee has had a big discussion on whether "solar lights" should be allowed. At the moment, there is no law or by-law against them. Forces are at work though to thwart the dreaded solar lights because some people think they don't look very nice.
Thus my fear for the pink flamingo's that I see in people's backyards. So beware and forewarned that owners of solar lights might be getting a letter soon to tell you to put away your lights...I'm sure the next on the list is birdbaths, pink flamingos and other yard creatures that don't pass muster with the imaginary idea of what is classy and what isn't for Arlington Village.
I understand that not everyone has the same taste...however...this is America. We live a stone's throw from our nation's Capitol or Capital...depending if you are talking about the building or the city. As long as it isn't in the front yard ruining your property value...I think you can indulge your neighbor.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Secret Meeting to Change AV Rules?
Yes, it is true. I have heard through the grapevine that there is a meeting tomorrow night (July 16th) to look at changing the Arlington Village rules. Shouldn't a meeting like this be advertised? Why are we thinking about changing things such as unit boundaries???
Plus, to make it even more ominous...one of the Board Members said at the Board Meeting (where this meeting was discussed and planned) that it would be easier to change the rules than the By-Laws since those have to approved by the unit owners.
Nice huh? Can residents even attend this secret meeting? How will this affect everyone?
Plus, to make it even more ominous...one of the Board Members said at the Board Meeting (where this meeting was discussed and planned) that it would be easier to change the rules than the By-Laws since those have to approved by the unit owners.
Nice huh? Can residents even attend this secret meeting? How will this affect everyone?
Monday, July 14, 2008
Got Weeds?
Ok...sorry that I have not updated the blog since Saturday. I have caught the dreaded summer cold. Yes...the infamous summer cold that attacks when you least expect it. However, the cold has made me spend extra quality time around Arlington Village when I'm normally at work. This gave me a new perspective of the Village and its workings during the typical day.
First thing I noticed was how many weeds were around. Yes...outside of my unit there are 3 foot high weeds. There are weeds in the sidewalk, in the flower beds, next to the hedges at the beginning of my sidewalk, weeds pretty much as far as the eye can see. I sure hope that those weeds don't kill any of the plants that the Village likes to buy. That would be ironic...hahaha. Alas, we (Arlington Village) do pay landscapers to "weed" and do other things...like prune on a regular basis.
However, this leads me to another observation that a lot of people need their bushes pruned. I know people that do it themselves because it is never done by the Village. I personally will never prune my own hedges...I pay good money for that and I will let it accumulate and one day it will be done!!!
I do from time to time share my concerns and observations with my neighbors. Sometimes they even agree with me. The "weed" incident is one trumpeted by some who live by me. They have even seen our so-called "Weed Killers" mull around outside...chatting for over half and hour on the sidewalk...killing time instead of our weeds. Grrrr. I've actually seen six people outside but only TWO working...the other four were chatting.
Don't even get me started about the landscapers destroying hoses and weed whacking flowers.
What really gets me is that the RFP for a landscaping company will go out this year...and we will end up with the same people we have now. Somehow the same company always comes in with the lowest bid? Hmmm...sounds suspect.
Sorry for the rambling...I blame it on the sudafed.
First thing I noticed was how many weeds were around. Yes...outside of my unit there are 3 foot high weeds. There are weeds in the sidewalk, in the flower beds, next to the hedges at the beginning of my sidewalk, weeds pretty much as far as the eye can see. I sure hope that those weeds don't kill any of the plants that the Village likes to buy. That would be ironic...hahaha. Alas, we (Arlington Village) do pay landscapers to "weed" and do other things...like prune on a regular basis.
However, this leads me to another observation that a lot of people need their bushes pruned. I know people that do it themselves because it is never done by the Village. I personally will never prune my own hedges...I pay good money for that and I will let it accumulate and one day it will be done!!!
I do from time to time share my concerns and observations with my neighbors. Sometimes they even agree with me. The "weed" incident is one trumpeted by some who live by me. They have even seen our so-called "Weed Killers" mull around outside...chatting for over half and hour on the sidewalk...killing time instead of our weeds. Grrrr. I've actually seen six people outside but only TWO working...the other four were chatting.
Don't even get me started about the landscapers destroying hoses and weed whacking flowers.
What really gets me is that the RFP for a landscaping company will go out this year...and we will end up with the same people we have now. Somehow the same company always comes in with the lowest bid? Hmmm...sounds suspect.
Sorry for the rambling...I blame it on the sudafed.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Do you like to Hula?
Well if you do...the Arlington Village Pool Party is the place to be on July 19th! I'm very curious about this whole pool party idea. Not that I don't love my neighbors, however do I want to see them in their bathing suits? Or have them see me in mine? haha
Just remember that everyone is asked to bring a side dish or dessert to share (no chips). There will be music and by the looks of it maybe some limbo action.
Aloha and see you next Saturday.
P.S. The rain date is July 26th!
Just remember that everyone is asked to bring a side dish or dessert to share (no chips). There will be music and by the looks of it maybe some limbo action.
Aloha and see you next Saturday.
P.S. The rain date is July 26th!
Friday, July 11, 2008
Rain Barrel Workshops
You may ask...what is a rain barrel and why do I need one? According to the Arlington County Website, "Rain barrels are containers that are connected to your downspouts to capture runoff from the roof. Rain barrels come in various sizes, ranging from 30 gallons to 100 gallons, and can be made of plastic or wood. You can also use a larger container to capture rainwater, such as a cistern."
Maybe this would help with the rising cost of water? Maybe all the new plantings could be watered with rain barrel water? Any way...I thought this was kind of a cool thing and neat workshop...plus it is right around the corner at Walter Reed Community Center. There are other dates in other locations...just go to the website listed above...you can also go to that link to sign up for the workshops.
Saturday, July 26th 11:00 a.m. Walter Reed Community Center, 2909 16th Street S., Arlington, VA 22204. Make-your-own-rain barrel workshop.
Saturday, July 26th 1:00 p.m. Walter Reed Community Center, 2909 16th Street S., Arlington, VA 22204. Make-your-own-rain barrel workshop.
Maybe this would help with the rising cost of water? Maybe all the new plantings could be watered with rain barrel water? Any way...I thought this was kind of a cool thing and neat workshop...plus it is right around the corner at Walter Reed Community Center. There are other dates in other locations...just go to the website listed above...you can also go to that link to sign up for the workshops.
Saturday, July 26th 11:00 a.m. Walter Reed Community Center, 2909 16th Street S., Arlington, VA 22204. Make-your-own-rain barrel workshop.
Saturday, July 26th 1:00 p.m. Walter Reed Community Center, 2909 16th Street S., Arlington, VA 22204. Make-your-own-rain barrel workshop.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Tomato plants...do you have one?
Ok...so I'm dying to know how many people in the Village have these plants. I only recently found out that vegetable gardens are not allowed. I think this is kind of hypocritical since we have so much emphasis on being green, conserving water, recycling, etc...
I could understand if you didn't want them in the front yard...but forbidden from the backyard? only in pots? How can you grow cucumbers in a pot?
Everyone knows that people have these plants...what's the big deal? Shouldn't we be more worried about the scooter that was stolen the other day and wasn't sent out on the AV Blast until 5 days later? So that is a car and a scooter stolen in the last 2 weeks...that we know about. Hmmm...healthy tomatoes on one hand and ketchup on the other. Yum.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Arlington Village Website
Has anyone noticed that this thing (a.k.a. website) is not up-to-date? There is still information about pool passes being due on May 15th? Wasn't that almost 2 months ago? Also, if you look at UPCOMING EVENTS, it still has the summer 2007 schedule.
I keep seeing that they want people to volunteer and do things for Arlington Village...but if you lose your paper version of the Village Crier...you are out of luck! There is no way to know what time the committee meetings are at or if the Village is doing a special project like the invasive plant removal coming up.
Does anyone have web experience and can help them out? Please offer your services so we can make it out of the dark ages. Either that or get Arlington Village to hire a local college kid to update it monthly on the cheap.
I keep seeing that they want people to volunteer and do things for Arlington Village...but if you lose your paper version of the Village Crier...you are out of luck! There is no way to know what time the committee meetings are at or if the Village is doing a special project like the invasive plant removal coming up.
Does anyone have web experience and can help them out? Please offer your services so we can make it out of the dark ages. Either that or get Arlington Village to hire a local college kid to update it monthly on the cheap.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Our local Safeway is finally being converted...
Yes...the Washington Post (July 3) announced last week that Arlington County has finally decided on the fate of our long lost Safeway grocery store.
To quote part of the story, "Revitalizing the two-acre site that included the supermarket and its parking lot has long been a priority for county officials, who for several years have worked to slowly remake the strip-mall-dotted drag into a walkable "urban village." The development plan passed at last week's County Board meeting calls for a 159-unit residential building on the northern end of the site and a six-story addition on the southern piece, toward Columbia Pike, that will house the 40,000-square-foot community center, retail shops and 33 additional residential units. The complex also will have a public courtyard and underground parking."
To see entire article go to: Community Center and Housing Approved for Pike Site
I think it is great that this is finally happening...however I just read a really interesting article about crime in The Atlantic Monthly. I reference this article since there will be low-income housing included in this project. The article is thought provoking and definitely food for thought....especially since crime has been a problem lately in the Village.
To quote part of the story, "Revitalizing the two-acre site that included the supermarket and its parking lot has long been a priority for county officials, who for several years have worked to slowly remake the strip-mall-dotted drag into a walkable "urban village." The development plan passed at last week's County Board meeting calls for a 159-unit residential building on the northern end of the site and a six-story addition on the southern piece, toward Columbia Pike, that will house the 40,000-square-foot community center, retail shops and 33 additional residential units. The complex also will have a public courtyard and underground parking."
To see entire article go to: Community Center and Housing Approved for Pike Site
I think it is great that this is finally happening...however I just read a really interesting article about crime in The Atlantic Monthly. I reference this article since there will be low-income housing included in this project. The article is thought provoking and definitely food for thought....especially since crime has been a problem lately in the Village.
Grounds Committee Meeting Tonight
Remember that the Grounds Committee is meeting tonight in the room connected to the Arlington Village office. I'm not sure what the agenda is but I imagine they will be getting ready for the big landscaping meeting being held later in the month to discuss other plantings that they want for the 13th Road project.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Hooray for the Village Crier
I just wanted to congratulate the Crier for getting out on time this month! I also saw a correction printed about the water and sewer prices. Excellent job!!!
However, I was not too keen on the Security Assessment. There was no mention in the article about past incidents involving residents or even the car theft from a few weeks ago. Residents need to remember that we live in an urban environment...no matter how village-esque our 6 or 7 block area is...
Also, from what I've heard about the security walk-through there needs to be a lot of bushes and trees cut back to properly provide lighted walkways at night as well as not to hide predators (at any time of day).
I was also told that the male officer, on the walk, said he would not feel comfortable walking in the ravine during the day! Yikes! I'd like to know what else will be done to make the ravine safer.
However, I was not too keen on the Security Assessment. There was no mention in the article about past incidents involving residents or even the car theft from a few weeks ago. Residents need to remember that we live in an urban environment...no matter how village-esque our 6 or 7 block area is...
Also, from what I've heard about the security walk-through there needs to be a lot of bushes and trees cut back to properly provide lighted walkways at night as well as not to hide predators (at any time of day).
I was also told that the male officer, on the walk, said he would not feel comfortable walking in the ravine during the day! Yikes! I'd like to know what else will be done to make the ravine safer.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Update on Board Meeting Note
Wow...this Board Meeting note...seems to have struck a nerve. Someone left a post on the subject of the guest blogger (June posting) that I'd like to address (their text is at the bottom in italics):
First off, please place comments in the right entry. It is much easier for people to follow the subject matter.
Second point, I'm sure people ask Arlington Village all the time for things that they shouldn't get. I know that some residents spent money on plants to improve their area and were approved to get reimbursed for them under a new small grant program. Shouldn't they have gotten permission first...then done the plantings?
Third, let's not confuse the resident's case with other negligent willy nilly folks that ask for anything. The resident at the Board Meeting had a real problem (which could affect other people in the village just as easily as it did that unit) and gave the Board a few options. Money for help with the repairs was asked for but there is a precedent for this already in place for the Board. Just look at the Board Meeting Notes to see for yourself. I'd be surprised if they weren't at the next Board Meeting this month asking again for a change of the by-laws so that no one else in the village will have the same problem.
Fourth, this blog is for dialogue and communication. Not to make the Board or the staff look like the enemy. I applaud anyone that volunteers for a Board or Committee position. However, that said, I do not appreciate hearing that residents are being treated disrespectfully at the Board Meetings. That is unacceptable and was attested to from more than one meeting attendant. If you have heard otherwise...I'd be happy to blog about it.
Hope everyone had a Happy Fourth!!!
First off, please place comments in the right entry. It is much easier for people to follow the subject matter.
Second point, I'm sure people ask Arlington Village all the time for things that they shouldn't get. I know that some residents spent money on plants to improve their area and were approved to get reimbursed for them under a new small grant program. Shouldn't they have gotten permission first...then done the plantings?
Third, let's not confuse the resident's case with other negligent willy nilly folks that ask for anything. The resident at the Board Meeting had a real problem (which could affect other people in the village just as easily as it did that unit) and gave the Board a few options. Money for help with the repairs was asked for but there is a precedent for this already in place for the Board. Just look at the Board Meeting Notes to see for yourself. I'd be surprised if they weren't at the next Board Meeting this month asking again for a change of the by-laws so that no one else in the village will have the same problem.
Fourth, this blog is for dialogue and communication. Not to make the Board or the staff look like the enemy. I applaud anyone that volunteers for a Board or Committee position. However, that said, I do not appreciate hearing that residents are being treated disrespectfully at the Board Meetings. That is unacceptable and was attested to from more than one meeting attendant. If you have heard otherwise...I'd be happy to blog about it.
Hope everyone had a Happy Fourth!!!
"Re the entries on the recent Board meeting-- It's easy to paint the Board/staff as the enemy -- it's not always true. Owners ask AV to pay for damage, etc., that the owner is responsible for on a regular basis. In some cases, the owner was explicitly warned about the problem by AV staff and ignored the warning until the damage was obvious. Those owners are unlikely to mention these facts when drumming up support for position that money should be coming their way. Do YOU want your condo fees paying for problems that are other owners' responsibilities? If so, I would like to get new towels for my bathroom -- would you chip in?" (From Anonymous, Guest Blogger Post)
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Happy 4th of July
Just want to say Happy Fourth of July to everyone! Remember to go to the Arlington County website (see link on right) to make sure you see where to see fireworks and road closures. If you are new to the area...Columbia Pike will be blocked up near the Pentagon because of the fireworks on the Mall.
I am actually on vacation for a few days...so I look forward to blogging after the holiday weekend!
Have a safe holiday!!!
I am actually on vacation for a few days...so I look forward to blogging after the holiday weekend!
Have a safe holiday!!!
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Board Meeting Update...not a happy topic!
OK...so some of you might have seen the comments from the person that wrote in the other day about the Board Meeting. I said that I would poke around and it seems like the comments they wrote were pretty accurate. I copied some of those comments below so you do not have to flip back and forth between posts.
First of all, I DO NOT expect to be treated rudely by anyone from Arlington Village and I sympathize for the resident.
Secondly, I expect Board Members to have all of the information about resident concerns before the meeting. Residents should not have to remind a board member what happened at the last meeting. What would you do if that happened to you? If you had an issue with the Board for 2 months and they had to be refreshed about what was occurring?
I plan on writing more about this issue since the residents' problem deals with Arlington Village rules and by-laws. These are issues that could could potentially become our issues! Secret things that no one tells you are responsible for until the damage is already done.
Now the Board is meeting (privately) this month to discuss changes to the rules...this could change current definitions of where your condo begins underneath, rules for vegetable gardens, parking, etc...
Thoughts????
First of all, I DO NOT expect to be treated rudely by anyone from Arlington Village and I sympathize for the resident.
Secondly, I expect Board Members to have all of the information about resident concerns before the meeting. Residents should not have to remind a board member what happened at the last meeting. What would you do if that happened to you? If you had an issue with the Board for 2 months and they had to be refreshed about what was occurring?
I plan on writing more about this issue since the residents' problem deals with Arlington Village rules and by-laws. These are issues that could could potentially become our issues! Secret things that no one tells you are responsible for until the damage is already done.
Now the Board is meeting (privately) this month to discuss changes to the rules...this could change current definitions of where your condo begins underneath, rules for vegetable gardens, parking, etc...
Thoughts????
I actually attended the board meeting the other night for the first time as an observer and owner in the village. I was actually disappointed. The board was very disorganized. They only gave 5 mins to a woman who had an issue with her unit but ended up talking about silly things for much longer than needed.
I also thought the Board was rather rude to the resident who came to the forum. 1) The resident pays condo fees and obviously was concerned about an issue (which I hope doesn't happen in my unit). 2) They didn't even give her time to state her case or address all her issues.
Rudeness from the board is completely inappropriate. It appeared to me that the President actually didn't like the Resident thus cutting her off when other board members wanted to here her concerns. The President should of abstained from voting on the issue.
Additionally, someone on the board said that our condo fees should go up every year. I'm sorry - what? Why? Explain your argument. Condo fees should not go up for the sake of going up.
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