Saturday, May 12, 2012
Preschool director position
Preschool Director - Emmanuel Episcopal Preschool (Alexandria, VA)
Emmanuel Episcopal Preschool is a non-profit church preschool founded in 1968. Our preschool program is based on the philosophy that young children should learn through play and develop positive relationships with other children and adults. Our school day offers a combination of structured and free time in which children learn to feel good about themselves and to care about the feelings of others. The Preschool currently has 8 separate classes for children from 2 to 5 years of age.
Position Description: The Director's position is part-time with duties spanning the entire 12-month year. These include: providing leadership for a church preschool; supporting the outreach ministry efforts of the Church; maintaining a safe and secure learning environment; communicating with parents regularly and personally about their children; planning special programs and events throughout the year, fundraising; contracting and supervising all staff; preparing and managing the budget; assisting with the transition of the children to both public and private schools in the area; ensuring the Preschool remains compliant with all applicable regulations of the city and state; and, most importantly, maintaining a sense of humor and perspective at all times.
Qualifications:
• Preferred: Master's degree in early childhood education or a related field and/or administration, or B.A. in early childhood or a related field
• Required: Bachelor's degree, experience at a preschool in teaching and/or administration
Successful completion of a background check is required.
The Director position is currently open. We are looking for someone who can begin as soon as possible. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume to bqcare@yahoo.com or to the attention of Emmanuel Episcopal Preschool Search Committee, 1608 Russell Road, Alexandria, VA 22301.
Friday, May 11, 2012
Potomac Yard Work Grp. Mtg. 5/16
The next meeting of the Potomac Yard Metrorail Implementation Work Group (PYMIG) is planned for Wednesday, May 16 at 6:30 pm.
The meeting will take place at Alexandria City Hall (301 King Street) on the second floor in the City Council Work Room. All meetings are open to the public.
This meeting will provide an overview of the public input and decision process as well as review of federal regulations specific to this project in relation to the three alternative station locations as identified in February 2012. Visit the Work Group's webpage at >>http://www.alexandriava.gov/
If you have questions or need further information, please contact Susan Gygi atsusan.gygi@alexandriava.gov, or call (703) 746-4109.
City of Alexandria Announces Change in Outdoor Pools Age Policy for 2012 Season
City of Alexandria Announces Change in Outdoor Pools Age Policy for 2012 Season
Effective with the opening of the 2012 outdoor pool season, all children twelve years of age and younger must be accompanied and supervised at all times by a paying adult eighteen years of age and over. Children under age six must be accompanied by a paying adult eighteen years and over in proper bathing attire at all times, and within arm’s length of the adult when in the pool.
This policy change is necessary to improve safety and enjoyment at the City’s swimming pools.
For a complete list of City pools, operating hours, fees and additional information, visitwww.alexandriava.gov/pools.
Thursday, May 10, 2012
ACPS College Night for Juniors
FROM ACPS:
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Info for and about Youth Activities in Alexandria
T.C. Williams Satellite Campus Accepting StudentsThe Satellite Campus at Landmark Mall will deliver a 21st century curriculum that is flexible in scheduling and student-centered in support. Students (in consultation with family and school counselors) decide if the satellite campus is the best option for them. The program is open to current students as well as recent dropouts. Contact Dr. Madye Henson, Deputy Superintendent, Student Support & Institutional Advancement, or Gregory Forbes, Director of School Counseling.
Student Art Show (May 4 – May 13)The Del Ray Artisans and the T. C. Williams Art Department are jointly presenting the 15th Annual Student Art Show at the Del Ray Artisans gallery through Sunday May 13. The exhibit will feature the work of thirteen T. C. students whose exemplary achievements have earned them entry into the National Art Honor Society.
George Washington Supper Club (May 11)The next George Washington Middle School Campus Family Night/Supper Club fundraiser will take place from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Chicken Out Rotisserie. The event is for all parents, teachers, staff and students in Alexandria and surrounding areas who want to offer support. Remember to bring aflyer.
“Crazy for You” On Stage at T. C. Williams (May 11 and May12)The T. C. Williams Drama Department will present the musical comedy, which features songs by George and Ira Gershwin, at 7:30 p.m. in the school’s auditorium.
Gang Prevention Brown Bag Lunch (May 16)The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children will discuss their prevention programs and how to get involved. The event will be from 12-1 p.m. at the Historic Lloyd House; please RSVP.
Talented and Gifted Spring Parent Workshop (May 19)Joy Lawson Davis, author of “Bright, Talented & Black: A Guide for Families of African American Gifted Learners”, will present the keynote address at a Talented and Gifted Spring Parentworkshop. ACPS officials and renowned educational experts will give presentations during five breakout sessions. Flyers are available in English, Spanish, Amharic and Arabic.
Alive Sidewalk Sale (May 19)The annual sidewalk sale to benefit ALIVE! House takes place Saturday, May 19, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Youth Arts Festival Auditions (May 24)The ACPS Center for the Arts K-12 will hold student performing arts auditions and visual arts presentations for the third annual Alexandria Youth Arts Festival, spearheaded by the Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority.
Pick Your Own - Berries
Cherry Hill Farm: strawberries, raspberries, peaches, apples
12300 Gallahan Rd., Clinton, MD
301-292-1928
Johnson's Berry Farm: strawberries, raspberries, blueberries
17000 Swanson Rd., Upper Marlboro, MD
301-627-8316
Belvedere Plantation: strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, vegtables
1601 Belvedere Dr., (on Rte 17, SE of Fredericksburg)
540-371-8494
12300 Gallahan Rd., Clinton, MD
301-292-1928
Johnson's Berry Farm: strawberries, raspberries, blueberries
17000 Swanson Rd., Upper Marlboro, MD
301-627-8316
Belvedere Plantation: strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, vegtables
1601 Belvedere Dr., (on Rte 17, SE of Fredericksburg)
540-371-8494
ALIVE! Women's Shelter Needs Help
ALIVE!'s women's shelter seeks donations for their Sidewalk Sale.
Sale is 5/19
Donations can be dropped off from 9am-5pm on Saturday and 1-5pm on Sunday, at the Ice House, 200 Commerce Street.
Volunteers are also needed to organize and sell the donations.
For more information or to volunteer, please call 703-684-1430
alivehouse@aliveinc.org
Sale is 5/19
Donations can be dropped off from 9am-5pm on Saturday and 1-5pm on Sunday, at the Ice House, 200 Commerce Street.
Volunteers are also needed to organize and sell the donations.
For more information or to volunteer, please call 703-684-1430
alivehouse@aliveinc.org
Alexandria Commission for the Arts to Hold Second Public Hearing on Proposed Public Art Policy
Alexandria Commission for the Arts to Hold Second Public Hearing on Proposed Public Art Policy
The Alexandria Commission for the Arts will hold a second public hearing on Tuesday, May 15, 7 pm on the proposed City of Alexandria’s Public Art Policy. The public hearing will be held at the Durant Arts Center, 1605 Cameron St. The regular meeting of the Arts Commission will follow.
Individuals who are unable to attend the public hearing can view the draft Public Art Policy athttp://dockets.alexandriava.
SAT/ACT Prep 5/12 - FREE
FROM ACPS:
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Learn to Knit on Mother's Day
FROM NEIGHBORHOOD LISTSERV:
Learn to Knit this Mother's Day
This Mother's Day fibre space is offering a unique activity. Bring a mother, daughter, son, aunt or friend to fibre space™ on May 13th anytime between noon and 4 pm to learn to knit and help support ACT for Alexandria. For a contribution of $20, our staff will get you started on a new scarf project.
*Materials not included. It is recommended that each person have 200 yards of chunky weight wool and US#10 needles. We recommend Ella Rae Superwash Chunky (available at the shop).
Learn to Knit this Mother's Day
This Mother's Day fibre space is offering a unique activity. Bring a mother, daughter, son, aunt or friend to fibre space™ on May 13th anytime between noon and 4 pm to learn to knit and help support ACT for Alexandria. For a contribution of $20, our staff will get you started on a new scarf project.
*Materials not included. It is recommended that each person have 200 yards of chunky weight wool and US#10 needles. We recommend Ella Rae Superwash Chunky (available at the shop).
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Old School Outdoor Games
Remember these games? They are great for childhood development - language, sensory & motor. Also learning about taking turns, playing with others, and how to win/lose well.
Mother May I?
One person is the designated "mother".
All the other children line up across the yard or sidewalk a distance away from "mother".
Each child takes turns asking "mother" if they can take one, two or three steps of varying types - i.e. "Mother may I take one baby step and one giant step?"
"mother' can then say "yes you may" or "no you may not".
The first one to reach "mother" and tag her then becomes "it" or the next "mother".
Make up silly steps and movements.
Hop Scotch
For younger children draw lots of 2 footed squares and just hop through any way you can.
For older children, work on letter and number recognition by writing a letter or number in each square.
Motorboat, Motorboat
"motor boat, motor boar go real slow... motorboat, motorboat go real fast... motorboat, motorboat, turn on the gas".
You can play this with several children in a circle, going faster until you turn on the gas and fall down.
Play with one child by rocking back and forth while sitting on the floor or by going around in a circle and then picking them up at the end and spinning the around.
This helps children learn the concepts of fast and slow.
Red Light/Green light
The person who is "it" or the "traffic cop" closes their eyes and says "green light" as the rest of the group advances until suddenly the "traffic cop" opens their eyes and says "red light".
Everyone should freeze and if the "traffic cop" catches someone moving after saying "red light", that person must go back to the beginning or starting line.
The first person to reach the "traffic cop" is the winner and becomes the next "traffic cop".
Hide and Seek
This doesn't need any explanation.
Flashlight Tag:
Just like Hide and Seek but in the dark with a flashlight.
SPUD!
All participants are given a name or number.
A player is chosen as "It" and the others stand in a circle around them.
"It" throws the ball straight into the air, calling out the name or number of another player.
That player who's name or number was called player must run and catch the ball, becoming "It", while the other players run away from them. As they catch the ball they shout "Spud", and the other players must stop running.
"It" throws or rolls the ball at another player or at their feet, after taking four giant steps towards them, spelling S-P-U-D with each step.
The target player may not dodge (the player may dodge by ducking or swaying, but can not move his feet) and if it hits them, they get a letter (or a "spud") and become "It".
If the ball misses the target, "It" gets a letter.
The player who gets four letters (spelling out "Spud") is out.
variations: the 'non it' players first huddle prior to each round choosing a topic i.e. birds, states, foods etc. Then each player chooses an item from the topic and the topic is revealed to the 'it' person. The 'it' player throws up the ball and calls out items from the topic until he gets one of the players identities; acknowledged as they head to recover the ball.
Mother May I?
One person is the designated "mother".
All the other children line up across the yard or sidewalk a distance away from "mother".
Each child takes turns asking "mother" if they can take one, two or three steps of varying types - i.e. "Mother may I take one baby step and one giant step?"
"mother' can then say "yes you may" or "no you may not".
The first one to reach "mother" and tag her then becomes "it" or the next "mother".
Make up silly steps and movements.
Hop Scotch
For younger children draw lots of 2 footed squares and just hop through any way you can.
For older children, work on letter and number recognition by writing a letter or number in each square.
Motorboat, Motorboat
"motor boat, motor boar go real slow... motorboat, motorboat go real fast... motorboat, motorboat, turn on the gas".
You can play this with several children in a circle, going faster until you turn on the gas and fall down.
Play with one child by rocking back and forth while sitting on the floor or by going around in a circle and then picking them up at the end and spinning the around.
This helps children learn the concepts of fast and slow.
Red Light/Green light
The person who is "it" or the "traffic cop" closes their eyes and says "green light" as the rest of the group advances until suddenly the "traffic cop" opens their eyes and says "red light".
Everyone should freeze and if the "traffic cop" catches someone moving after saying "red light", that person must go back to the beginning or starting line.
The first person to reach the "traffic cop" is the winner and becomes the next "traffic cop".
Hide and Seek
This doesn't need any explanation.
Flashlight Tag:
Just like Hide and Seek but in the dark with a flashlight.
SPUD!
All participants are given a name or number.
A player is chosen as "It" and the others stand in a circle around them.
"It" throws the ball straight into the air, calling out the name or number of another player.
That player who's name or number was called player must run and catch the ball, becoming "It", while the other players run away from them. As they catch the ball they shout "Spud", and the other players must stop running.
"It" throws or rolls the ball at another player or at their feet, after taking four giant steps towards them, spelling S-P-U-D with each step.
The target player may not dodge (the player may dodge by ducking or swaying, but can not move his feet) and if it hits them, they get a letter (or a "spud") and become "It".
If the ball misses the target, "It" gets a letter.
The player who gets four letters (spelling out "Spud") is out.
variations: the 'non it' players first huddle prior to each round choosing a topic i.e. birds, states, foods etc. Then each player chooses an item from the topic and the topic is revealed to the 'it' person. The 'it' player throws up the ball and calls out items from the topic until he gets one of the players identities; acknowledged as they head to recover the ball.
Bloomers Annual Bra Drive 5/19
BLOOMERS WILL CONDUCT ITS 2ND ANNUAL BRA DRIVE ON MAY 19
Bloomers will conduct its 2nd Annual Bra Drive benefiting the BraRecyclers on May 19 at both the Shirlington and Alexandria store locations. The BraRecyclers are a textile recycling company specializing in the recycling and reuse of used and unused bras. Bras recycled by BraRecyclers are distributed around the world to deserving women and girls in transition.
Customers who donate gently used bras will get 20% off a new bra. And, the first 15 customers to donate at each store will get a FREE Bloomers t-shirt. Finally, for every new LIKE on Facebook during the month of May, Bloomers will donate $1 to the Bra Recyclers. So, 50 new likes = $50 donated by Bloomers to the BraRecyclers. Like us on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/bloomersva.
Bloomers of Alexandria is located in historic Old Town Alexandria at 924 King Street. Hours of operation are 11am -6 pm (Monday – Friday), 10am – 6 pm (Saturdays) and noon to 5 (Sundays).
For more information, contact Bloomers’ owner Kim Putens (202-297-9090) orkim@shopbloomers.com.
Beauregard Small Area Plan at City Council Meeting
FROM THE CITY OF ALEXANDRIA:
City Council Public Hearing – May 12, 2012
Beauregard Small Area Plan
On May 3, the City of Alexandria Planning Commission voted 6-0 to recommend approval of the draft Beauregard Small Area Plan, with amendments.
City Council will consider the Plan at its next public hearing on Saturday, May 12, 2012 at 9:30 AM in Council Chambers, Alexandria City Hall, 301 King St.
The docket, staff report and various supporting documents are located on the City Council Docket. Anyone wishing to speak at the City Council Public Hearing can sign up at the meeting or in advance on the City's website on the City Council Public Hearing Speaker Form.
The boundaries of the Beauregard Small Area Plan are located on the Beauregard Small Area Plan Boundary Map online at http://alexandriava.gov/
Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation Walk 5/20
A Family Walk for Childhood Cancer sponsored by Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation
SUNDAY, MAY 20th, Noon - 4 p.m.
Speakers and family activities: crafts & games, 26 ft. rock climbing wall, LEGO build tables and train display, football & soccer clinics, Zumba, food from Clyde's, magic show, games, learn to juggle clinic, face painting, nail art, balloon animals, fantastic raffle prizes, moon bounce, and a walk around the track to benefit Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation and fund a ChildLife Specialist position at Georgetown University Hospital.
Admission: $25 Adults/$15 children (under 3 free). T-shirt included w/ registration.
Location: St. Stephen's & St. Agnes Upper School Campus, 1000 St. Stephen's Road, Alexandria.
Information and to register: www.mattiemiracle.com
Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charity founded in the loving memory of Mattie Brown, a 7- year old, who courageously battled Osteosarcoma. The Foundation builds public awareness of childhood cancers and addresses the psychosocial needs of children and their families.
All walk proceeds go directly to fund a Child Life specialist position at Georgetown University Hospital to assist children and families on stressful and anxiety provoking scan and procedure days.
SUNDAY, MAY 20th, Noon - 4 p.m.
Speakers and family activities: crafts & games, 26 ft. rock climbing wall, LEGO build tables and train display, football & soccer clinics, Zumba, food from Clyde's, magic show, games, learn to juggle clinic, face painting, nail art, balloon animals, fantastic raffle prizes, moon bounce, and a walk around the track to benefit Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation and fund a ChildLife Specialist position at Georgetown University Hospital.
Admission: $25 Adults/$15 children (under 3 free). T-shirt included w/ registration.
Location: St. Stephen's & St. Agnes Upper School Campus, 1000 St. Stephen's Road, Alexandria.
Information and to register: www.mattiemiracle.com
Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charity founded in the loving memory of Mattie Brown, a 7- year old, who courageously battled Osteosarcoma. The Foundation builds public awareness of childhood cancers and addresses the psychosocial needs of children and their families.
All walk proceeds go directly to fund a Child Life specialist position at Georgetown University Hospital to assist children and families on stressful and anxiety provoking scan and procedure days.
Construction Work Scheduled at Windmill Hill Park Basketball Court
FROM THE CITY OF ALEXANDRIA:
Construction Work Scheduled at Windmill Hill Park Basketball Court
As part of the FY 2012 Capital Improvement Program, the Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities will resurface and color coat the basketball court at Windmill Hill Park, 501 S. Union St.
The work is scheduled for May 10-June 8. The courts will be repaved during the first week. Following repaving, the court surface will be allowed to cure approximately two weeks. During the third and fourth week, the courts will be colored and lined. Minor site work will adjust the goals to the industry standard height and ensure smooth transitions to existing grade. The court will be open to the public during the two week curing period.
During construction, some parking along Gibbon Street will be reserved for construction equipment. Residents will see equipment in use and crews at work during the daytime.
For your safety, please use extra caution in moving around the site. For additional information or questions about the work, call Beth Carton, at 703.746.5492 (Virginia Relay 711) or e-mailbethany.carton@alexandriava.
Construction Meeting for Mount Jefferson Park Playground Renovation
FROM THE CITY OF ALEXANDRIA:
Construction Meeting for Mount Jefferson Park Playground Renovation
The public is invited to attend a Community Pre-Construction Meeting to discuss the upcoming Mount Jefferson Park Playground Renovation. The meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 15 at 7 p.m. on-site at the Park, 301 Hume Ave..
City staff will present information and answer questions concerning the upcoming playground construction.
City staff will present information and answer questions concerning the upcoming playground construction.
Persons who are unable to attend the pre-construction meeting can send written questions to the Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities, Attention: Judy Lo, 1108 Jefferson St., Alexandria, VA 22314, or e-mail judy.lo@alexandriava.gov.
For additional information on the Mount Jefferson Park playground renovation, visithttp://alexandriava.gov/
T.C. Crew Fundraiser 5/14
T.C. WILLIAMS CREW Restaurant Fundraiser
at
PIZZAIOLO CAFÉ ON FERN
Monday, May 14th
All day!
Dine at Pizzaiolo Café on Fern all day on May 14th (dine in or take out, no delivery) and 10% of your check will be donated to T.C. Williams Crew!
**Make sure to mention TC CREW**
1623 Fern Street, Alexandria, VA 22302
(703) 717-9324
at
PIZZAIOLO CAFÉ ON FERN
Monday, May 14th
All day!
Dine at Pizzaiolo Café on Fern all day on May 14th (dine in or take out, no delivery) and 10% of your check will be donated to T.C. Williams Crew!
**Make sure to mention TC CREW**
1623 Fern Street, Alexandria, VA 22302
(703) 717-9324
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Building Leaders of Tomorrow Program 5/19
The Building Leaders for Tomorrow Program will be held on Saturday, May 19, 2012 at Northern Virginia Community College on the Alexandria Campus, Bisdorf Building. This program is designed to empower minority youth and develop their leadership abilities to enable them to create community change and open doors. Building the Leaders for Tomorrow aims to provide participants with the information, skills and a road map to effectively engage others in their community. We encourage northern Virginia minority youth, from 16 years to 26 years of age to attend and learn to live their dreams.
The Building Leaders for Tomorrow Program will consist of a morning and an afternoon panel with breakouts sessions. The morning will feature “Youth Leaders” that have begun pursuing their dreams. The panelists will tell why this became their passion and describe the steps they took in pursuit of their goal. The afternoon panel will exploreopportunities “Beyond Our Borders” for those interested in international or out of state possibilities. We’ll end with opportunities for internships, fellowships and jobs.
We are planning for 150 youth. The day will be exciting and packed with interactive fun-filled learning opportunities. A delicious continental breakfast and lunch will be provided. Please share this with the youth you know.
This is a free program and seating is limited. Those seeking to participate must register by May 14, 2012 at http://y-lift.eventbrite.com.
Remembering Maurice Sendak
Maurice Sendak is most notably known for "Where the Wild Things Are".
But my personal favorite is "Little Bear". (I know he didn't write them, just illustrated them).
Thank you Mr. Sendak for sharing your stories with us.
Remembering Maurice Sendak ~~~~
"Please don't go. We'll eat you up. We love you so."-Maurice Sendak, author of "Where the Wild Things Are,"
I cry a lot because I miss people. They die and I can't stop them. They leave me and I love them more.”
But my personal favorite is "Little Bear". (I know he didn't write them, just illustrated them).
Thank you Mr. Sendak for sharing your stories with us.
Remembering Maurice Sendak ~~~~
"Please don't go. We'll eat you up. We love you so."-Maurice Sendak, author of "Where the Wild Things Are,"
"And
now," cried Max, "let the wild rumpus start!"
"There
must be more to life than having everything!" -from "Higglety
Pigglety Pop!" by Maurice Sendak
"And
Max, the king of all wild things, was lonely and wanted to be where someone
loved him best of all." -from 'Where the Wild Things Are'
I cry a lot because I miss people. They die and I can't stop them. They leave me and I love them more.”
Teacher Appreciation Quotes
A
truly special teacher is very wise, and sees tomorrow in every child's eyes.
~Author Unknown
A teacher
takes a hand, opens a mind, and touches a heart. ~Author Unknown
The
mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher
demonstrates. The great teacher inspires. ~William A. Ward
Teaching
is the profession that teaches all the other professions. ~Author Unknown
A teacher
affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops. ~Henry Adams
Teaching is
not a lost art, but the regard for it is a lost tradition. ~Jacques Barzun
Mother's Day Craft #2
Here is another easy Mother's Day Craft -- Bugs or flowers
items needed --
-terra cotta pot, any size
-paint - suitable for outdoor use - any color
-paint brush
- sharpie or markers
Paint your child's thumb
place the thumb on the pot to make a thumb print
turn the thumb print into a bug or flower
red paint for a lady bug - then use the marker to make dots
black paint for a spider - then use the marker to make the legs
bright colors to make the center of a flower - then use a marker to make the petals or use other fingers to make the petals.
Fill the pot with dirt and fill with a flowering plant.
Or fill with homemade handprint flowers from previous post.
variations:
can be done on large rocks and put in the garden
can be done on wooden flower boxes
Happy Mother's Day!
items needed --
-terra cotta pot, any size
-paint - suitable for outdoor use - any color
-paint brush
- sharpie or markers
Paint your child's thumb
place the thumb on the pot to make a thumb print
turn the thumb print into a bug or flower
red paint for a lady bug - then use the marker to make dots
black paint for a spider - then use the marker to make the legs
bright colors to make the center of a flower - then use a marker to make the petals or use other fingers to make the petals.
Fill the pot with dirt and fill with a flowering plant.
Or fill with homemade handprint flowers from previous post.
variations:
can be done on large rocks and put in the garden
can be done on wooden flower boxes
Happy Mother's Day!
Mother's Day card
Here's a verse perfect for that homemade Mother's Day card ---
Mommy I love you
Mommy I love you,
for all that you do.
I'll kiss you and hug you,
'cause you love me too.
You feed me and need me
to teach you to play.
So smile 'cause I love you
on this Mother's Day.
Mommy I love you
Mommy I love you,
for all that you do.
I'll kiss you and hug you,
'cause you love me too.
You feed me and need me
to teach you to play.
So smile 'cause I love you
on this Mother's Day.
Valley Drive Preschool spring Carnival 5/12
Valley Drive Preschool Is Hosting A Spring Carnival On Saturday, May 12th from 10am to 12pm
Come Jump In The Moon Bounce, Get Your Face Painted, Grab A Snow Cone To
Cool Off, Munch On Some Popcorn, Play In The Bubbles and More...
Cost: $5 Per Child
$1 to $3 Each For Tasty Treats & Beverages
Please Remember To Tell Your Friends & Neighbors To Come Out For Some Fun And To Help Support Valley Drive Preschool!!
700 Commonwealth Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22301
Come Jump In The Moon Bounce, Get Your Face Painted, Grab A Snow Cone To
Cool Off, Munch On Some Popcorn, Play In The Bubbles and More...
Cost: $5 Per Child
$1 to $3 Each For Tasty Treats & Beverages
Please Remember To Tell Your Friends & Neighbors To Come Out For Some Fun And To Help Support Valley Drive Preschool!!
700 Commonwealth Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22301
Monday, May 7, 2012
Alexandria City Council Adopts Fiscal Year 2013 Budget
FROM THE CITY of ALEXANDRIA:
Alexandria City Council Adopts Fiscal Year 2013 Budget
$587.9 Million Budget Restores Many Previous Cuts, Offsets Some Reductions in State and Federal Funding
For Immediate Release: May 7, 2012
News Highlights
The General Fund Operating Budget is $587.9 million, an increase of 3.7% from Fiscal Year 2012.
The calendar year 2012 property tax rate is unchanged at 99.8 cents per $100 of assessed value. The average homeowner’s tax bill would increase by $52, or 1.2%, due to increased property values.
The FY 2013 budget restores some previous budget cuts and offsets some reductions in state and federal funding.
The Alexandria City Public Schools transfer increases by $4.5 million, or 2.6%, from Fiscal Year 2012.
More Information
www.alexandriava.gov/Budget
The Alexandria City Council voted unanimously to adopt a $587.9 million General Fund Operating Budget for the fiscal year (FY) beginning July 1, 2012. The calendar year 2012 real estate tax rate remains unchanged at 99.8 cents per $100 of assessed value. The average homeowner’s taxes will increase by $52, or 1.2%, due to increased property values. The City’s real property tax rate remains the second lowest for residential properties and the lowest for commercial properties among major jurisdictions in Northern Virginia. Other City tax rates, as well as the solid waste and sanitary sewer tax rates, remain unchanged.
The transfer of funds to the Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) was $179.5 million. The transfer of funds to the Schools for FY2013 operating expenses was increased by $4.5 million, or 2.6%.
The FY 2013 budget maintains the City’s core services, restores some service cuts proposed by the City Manager and made in FY 2012 and previous years, and helps fill some funding gaps left by cuts in federal and state funding.
These restorations include:
Support for Complete Streets, a new program that reactivates the City’s efforts to implement pedestrian, vehicular, and bicycle-friendly transit and safety measures throughout the City ($532,000).
Restoration of senior citizen taxi reservation services provided by Senior Services of Alexandria ($70,000), and contingent reserve funding dedicated to expansion of the City’s Meals on Wheels service for senior citizens ($39,983).
Funding for maintaining a position, previously funded by the federal government, to help prevent gang crime ($85,000).
Restoration of Healthy Families program funding reduced by state budget cuts ($56,607).
Restoration of funding for the Teen Wellness Center, operated by the Alexandria Health Department, to replace a loss of state funding ($65,000).
Funding for marketing and advertising used by the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership to attract businesses to Alexandria ($83,365).
Support for increasing the operating hours of the Alexandria Library Special Collections Branch at the Barrett Library ($50,000), which were reduced by the City in FY 2011.
As in previous years, City employees will not receive a market rate increase in FY 2013. City employees will receive merit step increases, if eligible, at a cost of $3.3 million. Additionally, to encourage employee retention and to recognize employees who increase their skill levels, Council allocated $900,000 to fund employee career ladders and to address how public safety employees progress on the pay scale compared to similar employees in other jurisdictions. The Virginia General Assembly also recently passed legislation requiring local governments participating in the Virginia Retirement System (VRS) to ensure that their employees contribute 5% of their salary to VRS. Local governments must provide employees with a 5% salary increase, and can phase in the requirement. The City will gradually implement the 5% contribution and salary requirement at 1% per year, beginning July 1, 2012.
“The budget approved tonight was built using the City’s Strategic Plan as the foundation for our decisions,” said Mayor William D. Euille. “We listened to the community--and this budget reflects your input and prioritizes maintaining our core services, public safety, transportation, public schools and human services. This budget also restores many of the cuts made during recent, tough economic times, and helps fill in some reductions in federal and state funding. As we slowly emerge from challenging economic conditions, the City government will continue to work hard with the entire community on improving Alexandria’s quality of life, strengthening our local economy and building a bright future.”
365 - baby birds
There are some baby birds in there...... we just can't get high enough to see them, but we sure can hear them!
Boutique Gives Back to the Breast Cancer Surgical Fund
FROM THE CITY OF ALEXANDRIA:
Today’s Cargo Supports Alexandria Walk to Fight Breast Cancer Surgical Fund
The Old Town Boutique District (OTBD) in Alexandria will hold its 2nd Annual Boutiques Give Back Charity Day, Saturday, May 19. The 35 specialty shops comprising this district will each contribute a portion of their proceeds to the charity of their choice.
Today’s Cargo, a one-of-a-kind jewelry store located at 1102 King St., will contribute to the Alexandria Walk to Fight Breast Cancer Surgical Fund, which helps women in the City with little to no health insurance pay for surgeries associated with breast cancer. For more information on the Alexandria Walk to Fight Breast Cancer visit www.alexcancerwalk.com. To visit Today’s Cargo’s website go to www.todayscargo.com.
Craft for Mother's Day
Not sure how many dads and caregivers read this blog but here's a wonderful Mothers Day craft project.
Flowers --
supplies-
1 paper plate
colorful construction paper
scissors
glue
Trace your child's hand on the colorful construction paper. (at least 8-10 times)
Cut out the hand tracings
Glue a circle of the handprint tracings around the outside of the paper plate. (the fingers are the petals)
Glue a second circle of handprints just inside the first circle.
Glue a third circle in the center of the plate.
Glue a small circle in the middle.
Attach this note:
This isn't just a flower
as you can plainly see.
I made it with my hands
which are a part of me.
It comes with lots of love,
especially to say,
I hope you have a very
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!
Flowers --
supplies-
1 paper plate
colorful construction paper
scissors
glue
Trace your child's hand on the colorful construction paper. (at least 8-10 times)
Cut out the hand tracings
Glue a circle of the handprint tracings around the outside of the paper plate. (the fingers are the petals)
Glue a second circle of handprints just inside the first circle.
Glue a third circle in the center of the plate.
Glue a small circle in the middle.
Attach this note:
This isn't just a flower
as you can plainly see.
I made it with my hands
which are a part of me.
It comes with lots of love,
especially to say,
I hope you have a very
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!
Summer Reading
Summer Reading: A compilation of area schools required summer reading lists.
Hatchet by Gary Paulsen
12th Grade:
The Metamorphosis, Kafka
Snow Falling on Cedars, Guterson
The Kitchen God’s Wife, Tan
Tess of the D’Urbervilles, Hardy
Catch-22, Heller
Anna Karenina, Tolstoy
Dracula, Stoker
The Handmaid’s Tale, Atwood
Frankenstein, Shelley
6th and 7th Grade:
Ghosts I have Been by Richard Peck
Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
The Acorn People by Ron Jones
Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O’Dell
Hatchet by Gary Paulsen
Freak the Mighty, by Rodman Philbrick
The Incredible Journey, by Sheila Burnford
8th Grade
Night by Elie Wiesel
The Outsiders by Susan Hinton
Into Thin Air, Jon Krakauer
The Young Man and the Sea, Rodman Philbrick
Ender’s Game, Orson Scott Carl
The Cay by Theodore Taylor
The House of Dies Drear by Virginia Hamilton
Haveli by Suzanne Fisher Staples
White Fang by Jack London
9th Grade
Jonathan Livingston Seagull, Richard Bach
The Pigman, Paul Zindel
A Day No Pigs Would Die, Newton Peck
The Hobbit by JR Tolkein
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer
10th Grade:
Nickled and Dimed, Ehrenreich
Blessings, Anna Quindlen
The Bean Trees, Kingsolver
Things Fall Apart, Chinua Achebe
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, Betty Smith
Into the Wild, Jon Krakauer
Into the Wild, Jon Krakauer
11th Grade:
The Woman Who Owned the Shadows, Paula Gun Allen
I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings, Angelou
The Bluest Eye, Morrison
If I Die in the Combat Zone, O’Brien
The Old Man and the Sea, by Ernest Hemingway
The Awakening by Kate Chopin
12th Grade:
The Glass Castle, Walls
The Metamorphosis, Kafka
Snow Falling on Cedars, Guterson
The Kitchen God’s Wife, Tan
Tess of the D’Urbervilles, Hardy
Catch-22, Heller
Anna Karenina, Tolstoy
Dracula, Stoker
The Handmaid’s Tale, Atwood
Frankenstein, Shelley
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