Alexandria Mom's Calendar of Events

Friday, October 5, 2012

365 - Tree - Changing......


Trick or Treat with the Boutiques 10/27


Join in the family fun, a day of trick with the Old Town Boutique District stores. 


Halloween Party


Looking for something to do with your child's class?  or just want to do play a few games with your kids....here are a few ideas


  • play hot pumpkin
  • pass the fake/rubber eyeball on the spoon
  • touch feel gross things -- 
    • carrot = finger
    • jello = liver
    • cooked pasta = intestines
    • peeled grapes =  eye balls
    • popcorn kernels = teeth
    • apricot = tongue
    • soft tomato = heart
  • wrap someone in toilet paper to make a mummy
  • make a scarecrow (you can use newspaper and fill newspaper bags for ams & legs) 
  • guess the # of candy corn in a container
  • make popcorn hands 
    • use plastic/clear gloves (the kind used in kitchens/bakeries) 
    • fill with candy corn for finger nails
    • fill with popcorn
  • undo a spider web - have each child get an end of yarn and follow it to undo a "web" 

Ghosting your neighbors

Here is the little poem that goes along with the ghost and treat for "ghosting" your neighbors. 

The phantom ghost has come to town. 
to leave you some goodies, I see you've found. 
If you do not wish a curse to fall 
Continue this greeting.... This Phantom call. 

First, post this phantom in a place where it can be seen. 
And leave it there til Halloween. 
This will scare other phantoms that may come. 
Be sure to participate, don't be a bum! 

Second, make two treats, two ghosts and two notes like this 
Deliver them to two neighbors who may have been missed. 

You must be quick, you have only one day.
Go to a house with no ghosts on display. 
Don't let them see you, be sneaky, no doubt.
Deliver at dark, when there's not any light. 
Ring the doorbell, run quickly, stay out of sight. 

Last but no least, come join in the season
Be happy, be silly, you need no good reason
One last thought, remember, don't be seen. 
And share the spirit of a spooky Halloween. 


Thursday, October 4, 2012

365 - Boo

getting ready for halloween....



Missing Fairfax County Student


A message from FAIRFAX COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

The Fairfax County Police Department is investigating a missing persons report filed on a Woodson High School senior. 
The student – 17 year old Bryan Glenn - was last seen Monday morning around 8:00 a.m. 

Anyone with information as to his whereabouts, should contact the Fairfax County Police Department at 703-691-2131.

Bryan Glenn 

Schedule of Services for Columbus Day

FROM THE CITY OF ALEXANDRIA: 



City of Alexandria Announces Schedule of Services for Columbus Day, October 8
For Immediate Release: October 3, 2012

All City of Alexandria government offices will be closed on Monday, October 8, in observance of the Columbus Day holiday.

Health Facilities: The Alexandria Health Department, 4480 King St.; the Flora Krause Casey Health Center, 1200 N. Howard St.; and the Teen Wellness Center at T. C. Williams High School, 3330 King St., will be closed on October 8.

Hotlines: All emergency hotlines operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including the child protective services hotline,703.746.5800; the domestic violence hotline, 703.746.4911; the emergency services for mental health or substance abuse crisis hotline, 703.746.3401; and the sexual assault hotline, 703.683.7273.

Libraries: All Alexandria Library branches will be closed October 8.

Parking: On October 8, the Alexandria Police Department will suspend enforcement of parking restrictions at metered spaces, residential permit parking districts and other areas with signed parking time limits.   

Recreation Centers: The Chinquapin Park Recreation Center will be open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on October 8. All other City recreation centers will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Refuse Collection: Residential refuse and recycling will not be collected on October 8. Collection services will be delayed by one day during the week of October 8. The Household Hazardous Waste and Electronics Collections Drop-off Center will be closed on October 8.

Schools: Alexandria City Public Schools will be closed on October 8.

State Offices: The following Commonwealth of Virginia offices located in Alexandria will be closed on October 8: the Circuit, General District, and Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Courts, and the DMV Office on 2681 Mill Rd.

Transit: Alexandria Transit Company’s DASH bus service will operate on a Saturday schedule on October 8.  

MOMS Club Preschool Fair

The MOMS Club of Alexandria's 10th Annual Preschool Fair

Tuesday, October 23, 9:00 am- 12:00 pm
First Baptist Church, 2932 King Street, Alexandria


FREE

Meet representatives from area preschools to assist you in finding the right educational opportunity for your child. 

Participating preschools will have an information table and parents will circulate in an open-house fashion. 
All parents are welcome.  
Contact momspreschoolfair@gmail.com with questions.

About MOMS Club: The Preschool Fair is a service provided to the community by the MOMS Club of Alexandria-Northeast, VA. MOMS Club is an international nonprofit organization offering the invaluable resources of support, friendship, activities and local information to stay-at-home moms. Our chapter is devoted to fulfilling the motto of MOMS Club International: Moms Offering Moms Support and also playing a key role in supporting the local community. The Preschool Fair is our largest community service project and this is our 10th year orchestrating this volunteer run event. 

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

365 - Autumn


Whole foods recalls spring rolls & peanut sesame noodles

Whole Foods Market voluntarily recalls Chicken Spring Rolls and Peanut Sesame Noodles containing peanuts due to possible health risk from one store

Whole Foods Market is recalling two premade items, Chicken Spring Rolls and Peanut Sesame Noodles, sold in its prepared food department in the grab and go section and at the full service chef’s case, due to possible Salmonella contamination in the peanuts used as an ingredient. Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.

This message was issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.  For more information, seehttp://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm322443.htm

Police Investigate Attempted Sexual Assault


FROM THE ALEXANDRIA POLICE DEPARTMENT: 



Alexandria Police are investigating an attempted sexual assault that occurred on Tuesday, October 2, at approximately 9:45 P.M. in the wooded area just south of the creek in the 5300 block of Holmes Run Parkway. A 23 year-old female City resident was walking in the park near the community garden area, when she was approached by a man. The man began to talk to the woman and then grabbed her and pulled her into a secluded area where he attempted to sexually assault her. The victim broke free from the suspect and ran away from him. The suspect is described as a black male in his twenties, approximately 5’7” to 5’9”, weighing 200 to 220 pounds. He was wearing all black clothing. The victim was not seriously injured.

Detectives do not believe that this incident is related to a prior assault that occurred in the same area on September 12, 2012.

Anyone with information about this incident or who might have been in the area is asked to call the Criminal Investigations Section at 703.746.6711.

Detectives would like to remind witnesses that they can remain anonymous.
For more information please call the Public Information Office at 703.746.6600.

G.W. Middle School Orchestra in Need

FROM THE NEIGHBORHOOD LISTSERV:

ISO Garment and Suit Bags for GWMS Orchestra!

The 2012 Kennedy Center Gold Award winning
George Washington Middle School Orchestra is in search of zippered
garment and suit bags for their uniforms. Their current garment bags
have considerable wear and tear from being loaded on and off the bus for
many local and afar performances the last few years. If you have any
in your closet that you can donate or know of a suit/tailoring business
willing to donate a few we would be so very grateful. 

Please contact
Stephanie Murphy, 703-554-5539, samurphy15@yahoo.com and she will come and pick up your donation!!

City Council Holds Public Hearing on FY 2014 Operating Budget and Capital Improvement Program


City Council Holds Public Hearing on FY 2014 Operating Budget and Capital Improvement Program
For Immediate Release: October 2, 2012

On Saturday, October 13, the public is invited to attend the Alexandria City Council’s regularly scheduled public hearing to offer comments regarding the Fiscal Year (FY) 2014 Operating Budget and Capital Improvement Program, which begins July 1, 2013.  Residents are encouraged to provide input on how the City should use its available resources to meet its most important community goals.

The public hearing, which begins at 9:30 a.m., will be held in City Hall (301 King St.), in the City Council Chamber, Room 2400.  For more information, visit alexandriava.gov/Budget.  To view the October 13 public hearing docket once it is available, visit the City Council Dockets and Webcasts page or call the Office of the City Clerk at 703.746.4550.

Individuals with disabilities who require assistance or individuals needing special arrangements should call the City Clerk at703.746.4550 (TTY/TDD 703.838.5056).  We request that you provide a 48-hour notice so the proper arrangements may be made.

Fire Station Open Houses 10/13

FROM THE ALEXANDRIA FIRE DEPARTMENT:

On Saturday, October 13, 2012, all Alexandria Fire Stations will be open to the public from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.  Each station will open their doors to the community and provide a number of family oriented activities along with fire prevention educational materials.  Fire Apparatus and station tours will be available.  Staff at each station will be available to answer questions about their facility, equipment and the fire department.

Station #201     317 Prince St.
Station #202     213 E. Windsor Ave.
Station #203     2801 Cameron Mills Rd.
Station #204      900 Second St.
Station #205     1210 Cameron St.
Station #206     4609 Seminary Rd.
Station #207     3301 Duke St.
Station #208     175 N. Paxton St.
Station #209     2800 Main Line Blvd.



Congrats to TC Marching Band

FROM THE TCW Marching Band Newsletter: 


From Mr. González --- 

Congratulations to the Marching Titan Band for their excellent performance on Saturday! They earned 1st place in music, 1st place in general effect, and 2nd place overall in class AAA. It was awesome to see them march under the lights. You truly are the "Pride of Alexandria!"


WOW - CONGRATS MARCHING TITANS! 


Whole food Recall



Whole Foods Market announces that it is recalling ricotta salata sold in 21 states and Washington, D.C. that came from its supplier Forever Cheese Inc. of Long Island City, NY.  
Forever Cheese recalled this cheese product because it may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. Listeria monocytogenes is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

365 - Witch

Halloween is coming........

The Latest in Special Education News from The Parent Resource Center


FROM THE ALEXANDRIA PARENT RESOURCE CENTER: 


October is Disability Awareness and History Month in Virginia and National Disability Employment Awareness Month 
The Virginia Youth Leadership Forum joined youth from the I'm Determined Summit this summer to film a series of public service announcements (PSAs) that promote disability awareness. The seven PSAs were developed by and feature youth with disabilities discussing topics ranging from disability awareness to employment to interesting historical facts. They can be viewed athttp://www.youtube.com/user/DHAMPSAs

ANNOUNCING THE 2012-2013 SPECIAL EDUCATION INVOLVEMENT SURVEY: 
All parents of school-aged children and youth who receive special education services in Virginia’s schools are encouraged to complete the Virginia Department of Education’s annual Parent Involvement Survey. This survey will be available September 15, 2012 to June 30, 2013. If you are unable to take the survey online, your child's school will provide paper versions for your use. All paper versions of the survey will include a pre-addressed, postage-paid return envelope. All responses will be sent directly to the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE). For more information please contact Patricia Haymes at the VDOE patricia.haymes@doe.virginia.gov or 804.786.0116.


ANNUNCIO DE LA ENCUESTA DE 2012-2013 SOBRE LA PARTICIPACION DE LOS PADRES DE JOVENES COLEGIALES EN EDUCACIO ESPECIAL:https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/2012VAParentInvolvementSurvey
El Departamento de Educacion de ViRginia querria que todos los padres de jovenes colegiales que ya reciben los servicios de educacion especial completaran una encuesta. El Proposito de la encuesta es para determinar si las escuelas han facilitado la participacion de los padrea o no. Esta encusta estara disponible el 15 de septiembre de 2012 al 30de junio de 2013.Si usted no usa el Internet, las escuela de su hijo le dará una versión de papel y un sobre con sello y dirección para enviarlo al Departamento de Educación. Si usted tiene alguna pregunata sobre la encuesta o necesita más información, por favor, llame al centro de padres que abogan por la educación especial de sus hijos (PEATC) al 1-800-869-6782, o a María Isabel Frangenberg de la asociación de gente con discapacidades al 804-827-1547.  También, usted puede ecribir a Patricia Haymes por correo electrónico en patricia.haymes@doe.virginia.gov.


The Family Resource Center Thursday morning support group will meet this week  
10:00 am-Noon, Minnie Howard, Room 134, 3801 W. Braddock Rd, Alexandria
Please join us for coffee, bagels, and sharing.


TONIGHT
 October 2: Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC)
7:00-9:00pm, Minnie Howard Media Room,  3801 W. Braddock Rd, Alexandria, VA
This is SEAC's first meeting of the school year. Among the items on the agenda will be a short presentation on the building plans for the new Jefferson-Houston school and children with disabilities. Please plan to attend. For more information please contact co-chair Janet Reese jreese3286@aol.com.

October 10: PEATC Webinar: Change the format; change the outcome. How mediation works.
Noon, Duration: 1 hour
When there are problems in developing an IEP, holding subsequent meetings with the same location, people and agenda often occurs.  This session will focus on what to expect which is unique when a mediator is invited to facilitate the discussion.  We’ll consider what each party brings to the table and how that defines the task of the mediator.  Examples of successful mediations will illustrate ways that the process can be effective in helping people to move from deadlock to resolution. Presented by Art Stewart, the Virginia State Special Education Mediation Services Coordinator. For more information: http://readytalk.com/r/2hku3ysse994?1348495218833

October 13: "Practice Flight" program
7:00-10:00am, Dulles International Airport 
The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) is pleased to announce the launch of its pilot “Practice Flight” program for individuals with special needs. This program is designed to give families an opportunity to practice checking-in for a flight, going through the security screening process, and boarding a plane in a controlled, yet realistic environment.MWAA is partnering with United Airlines, AirProjects, Inc., and the Transportation Security Administration for this event.
Families wishing to participate in this event must pre-register in advance.For more information:http://www.mwaa.com/net/discover-dulles-special.aspx

October 13: Learning Disabilities Association of VA's 2012 Conference:
Learning Disabilities & Transition to Higher Education: What Students, Families, Professionals Should Know…
8:15am-2:00pm Marymount University, Reinsch Library
With the increasing numbers of students with learning disabilities seeking admission and being admitted to colleges and universities, it’s important for students and their families to be informed about the processes, legal information, and procedures that enable successful preparation for transition from secondary to postsecondary education. Keynote speaker: Elizabeth Getzel, director, postsecondary initiatives at Virginia Commonwealth University. For more information:http://www.ldavirginia.org/events.html

October 15: Access Community Lecture: What to Do Now? Resources for Those with Special Needs
7:30-9:00pm, McLean Bible Church, Tysons Campus, Community Room A, 8925 Leesburg Pike, Vienna, VA
When someone learns of a disability, often the first question is "What do I do now?" There is a great deal of information available on specific disabilities, services, education, supports and laws for individuals of any age.  In fact, there is so much information that it can be difficult to wade through it all.  Come learn what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to determine which information may be best for you. Guest Speaker Suzanne Ripley, Director, Accessing Disability Services.

October 16: Sexuality: Information for Parents of Children with Disabilities
6:30-8:00pm, Minnie Howard Media Center, 3801 W. Braddock Rd, Alexandria, VA
Young people with disabilities are no different from their peers in the need to understand their bodies and relationships. Parents will learn how they can help their child with a disability understand these important issues. Please join us for a healthy dialogue on this important topic. Presented by Carolyn Beckett, Project Coordinator, Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center (PEATC). For more information contact Monica Sanjur at 703-824-0129 or monica.sanjur@acps.k12.va.us.


October 16: Special Needs Trusts Free Informational Session:
7:15 pm, Tuckahoe Library, 1901 Starling Dr, Henrico, VA 23229
If you are a parent planning for the future of your child with special needs, or if you work with individuals with special needs, this event is for you! Special needs trusts allow funds to be set aside for the benefit of an individual with a disability in a way that will not jeopardize eligibility for SSI and Medicaid benefits.  Join us to learn more! For more information: http://specialneedstrust.eventbrite.com

October 18: Los ABCs para Padres®EN ESPAÑOLLos jueves, 18 de octubre - 13 de diciembre, 
¡Prepare su familia para ser exitosos! SCAN of Northern Virginia los invita a una clase de 8 semanas para padres de familia con
hijos menores de edad en donde se discutirá: *Desarrollo Infantil, Elojio y Empatía *Construyendo el Autoestima de su niño *Reglas de familia y Disciplina Apropriada
para la edad del niño *Consecuencias y Premios *Manejo de Estrés de familia...y MÁS! Llame a la coordinadora de educación para padres al 703-820-9001.
¡Inscríbase pronto porque la clase se llenará pronto!

October 19-20: Insight Conference: Topics in AutismRichmond, VA
Insight 2012 is a collaborative effort between VDOE’s Training and Technical Assistance Center at VCU, Autism Society Central Virginia, and the VCU Autism Center for Excellence. We are very excited to be bringing in Brenda Smith Myles. Brenda has made over 500 presentations all over the world and written more than 150 articles and books on ASD. At Insight 2012, Dr. Myles will be speaking in depth regarding strategies for teaching the hidden curriculum as well as strategies for addressing difficult behavior moments.Friday is open to all audiences, including special educators, general educators, related service providers and family members. The Saturday session will be specifically geared towards parents and families. Register online at: http://www.cvent.com/d/lcqzfc

October 20: ADHD ACROSS THE LIFESPAN
8:00am–12:30pm, Virginia Tech, Northern Virginia Center, 7054 Haycock Road, Falls Church, Virginia 22043
A half-day mini-conference for parents of children with ADHD, adults with ADHD, educators, mental health professionals. Each presentation geared to all audiences. CEUs and recertification points for professional counselors and teachers.To register and for more information:http://wordsmth.tripod.com/chaddofnorthernvirginia/

SAVE THE DATE: Free Workshop: Life Planning ToolsOctober 27, 8:30am-1:00pm, Burke Centre Library, 5935 Freds Oak Road Burke, VA
These critical workshops are designed to give individuals with disabilities and their families an understanding of several important programs for future planning. Sessions will address Special Needs Trusts, Social Security Income, and Medicaid Waivers. RSVP by calling (703) 532-3214 x110 or email SAvila@TheArcofNova.org


SAVE THE DATE: ADHD Coaching Strategies for Parents
November 1, 7:00-9:00pm, George Washington Middle School, Room 348A, 1005 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA
The Office of Special Education Services is proud to present "ADHD Coaching Strategies for Parents" presented by Jodi Sleeper-Triplett, author of Empowering Youth with ADHD. As the creator of the ADHD youth coaching model used as the basis for a groundbreaking two year coaching research study (2010), Ms. Sleeper-Triplett is the foremost expert in the field of ADHD coaching for youth.This session will teach parents strategies to help their children at home and provide tips for a better home/school collaboration. All participants will receive a copy of Ms. Sleeper-Triplett's book. To RSVP for this event please contact Monica Sanjur 703-824-0129 ormonica.sanjur@acps.k12.va.us.


SAVE THE DATE: Pathways to the FutureNovember 10, 9:00am-4:00pm, Chancellor High School, 6300 Harrison Road, Fredricksburg, VA
A free conference and resource fair for youth with disabilities, their parents/guardians and the professionals who support them.
Vendor fair and information sessions to assist you in preparing for the move from school to adult life in the community-TRANSITION!
Sponsored by (FACT) Fredericksburg Area Council on Transition For information, contact the disAbility Resource Center (540) 373-2559 

Other Resources:

Latest Headlines from DisabilityScoop.com
Scientists Look To Down Syndrome To Treat Alzheimer's

Alexandria Vice/Narcotics Year Long Investigation Leads to Successful Prosecution


ALEXANDRIA POLICE DEPARTMENT
PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE
3600 WHEELER AVENUE
ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA 22304
703-746-6600
NEWS RELEASE
OCTOBER 2, 2012 #12-063
10:00 A.M. DONALDSON
Alexandria Vice/Narcotics Year Long Investigation Leads to Successful Prosecution
The Alexandria Police Department’s Vice/Narcotics Section has successfully concluded a year-long investigation into a complex criminal organization that imported and distributed hundreds of pounds of marijuana in the Metropolitan Washington area and laundered the resulting proceeds. On Thursday, September 13, James Hunter Hutchings was sentenced to 20 years with 16 years suspended and 10 years supervised probation.  This follows his conviction on one count of Conspiracy to Commit Racketeering (RICO), one count of Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana, one count of Importation of Marijuana and one count of Conspiracy to Launder Money.
Hutchings was indicted by a Grand Jury in April 2012 for conspiring to ship large amounts of marijuana from Arizona to this area. Several packages, containing over 40 pounds of marijuana, were intercepted by the U.S. Postal Inspector and the Alexandria Police Department’s Vice/Narcotics Section in August 2011.
From April 2011 to August 2012, Hutchings was responsible for shipping packages of marijuana from Arizona to addresses in the City of Alexandria, Maryland and Prince William County.  The packages were addressed to vacant residences and were usually retrieved by co-conspirators. After being distributed in the Metropolitan Washington area, the resulting cash proceeds were deposited into bank accounts. The cash was then withdrawn, with most of the withdrawals occurring in Arizona.
During the course of the investigation, a total of 88 pounds of marijuana was intercepted at a street value of over $220,000.  In addition, analysis of records of the bank accounts used to launder drug profits revealed over $300,000 in laundered money. This criminal organization was responsible for over $500,000 worth of illegal drugs and the illegal proceeds associated with these drugs.

This investigation was lengthy and complex and involved the assistance of several agencies to be successful.  This case was investigated with the cooperation from the Financial Crime Intelligence Center of the Office of the Attorney General, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Prince William County Police Department and the Yavapai County, Arizona Sheriff’s Office.

City of Alexandria in Search of 2012 Holiday Tree

FROM THE CITY OF ALEXANDRIA:


For Immediate Release: October 2, 2012

City of Alexandria in Search of 2012 Holiday Tree

During the holidays, Market Square glistens with the sparkling majesty of a Holiday Tree, made possible only through a generous donation each year. The City of Alexandria is once again in search of a Colorado Blue Spruce, Leyland Cypress or other well-formed evergreen tree, approximately 25 to 35 feet tall, to serve as the City’s official 2012 Holiday Tree. The City will remove the tree from the donor’s property in mid-November and grind the stump at no cost. The tree will be decorated and displayed at Market Square, 301 King St., throughout the holiday season.
The lighting of the Holiday Tree officially opens the holiday season in Alexandria. The City’s Holiday Tree will be lighted during the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at 7 p.m. on Friday, November 23, at Market Square, 301 King St. The ceremony will feature a special visit by Santa Claus, along with entertainment and caroling.
Persons in the Washington metropolitan area who are interested in donating a tree should call John Noelle, City Arborist, at 703.746.5499 or e-mail john.noelle@alexandriava.gov.

Solid Waste & Recycling Announcements


FROM THE CITY OF ALEXANDRIA: 



Solid Waste & Recycling Announcements
·   Return to Regular Hours for Refuse & Recycling Collection
·   Trash and Recycling Collection – Holiday Schedule
·   Leaf Bags Available Starting October 15
·   Reuse Network Directory Information
·   Refrigerators and Dehumidifiers No Longer Accepted for Disposal at Covanta Waste to Energy Facility


Return to Regular Hours for Refuse & Recycling CollectionEffective October 1, weekly refuse and recycling collection services return to a 7:00 a.m. pickup start time.  To avoid heat during the summer, collection started one hour earlier.  Collection goes back to normal, trash and refuse should be placed out for collection prior to 7:00 a.m. on your designated collection day. 
Trash and Recycling Collection – Holiday Schedule 
Due to the Columbus Day holiday on October 8, residents are reminded that trash and recycling will be picked up one day later during this week than regularly scheduled.
Regular collection day                    Holiday collection dayMonday                                               Tuesday
Tuesday                                               Wednesday
Wednesday                                         Thursday
Thursday                                             Friday
  
Household Hazardous Waste and Electronics Collection
The Household Hazardous Waste and Electronics Collection drop-off center will be closed on Monday, October 8 for the Columbus Day holiday.  Normal hours of operation are every Monday and Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. located at 3224 Colvin Street.

Paper Leaf Bags Available Starting October 15
With the arrival of autumn, it’s almost time to think about leaf collection.  The City’s leaf collection program offers paper leaf bags, which are available for free to City residents who receive City refuse collection services. Remember, fifteen bags per visit.  For specific locations, hours, and information visit: alexandriava.gov/LeafCollection

Donating Clothing? – Reuse Network Directory InformationWith the change in seasons occurring, many of us are packing away summer clothes, and getting ready for cooler weather.  Take a moment to consider donating some of those summer items in the back of the closet that haven’t been worn all season.  Why not donate them to a local charity?  It’s all part of the cycle…. reduce, reuse, and recycle.  For more information about donating items, reuse options, or a full Reuse Network Directory visit:alexandriava.gov/Recycle

Refrigerators and Dehumidifiers No Longer Accepted for Disposal at Covanta Waste to Energy Facility
Appliances that contain a refrigerant are no longer accepted for disposal as scrap metal at the Covanta Waste to Energy facility, located on Eisenhower Ave.  If you receive disposal services from the City, please call the Solid Waste Division at 703.746.4410 to make an appointment for curbside collection pick up.  Residents who do not receive City refuse collection services should visit alexandriava.gov/Recycle for disposal instructions.

Monday, October 1, 2012

365 - Turds?

No that is not turds, we aerated the yard


Halloween Reading


Some books for you and your child --

picture books

The Littlest Pumpkin
Wee Witches Halloween
Ten Timid Ghosts
Scary, Scary Halloween 
In the Haunted House
The 13 Nights of Halloween
BIG Pumpkin
The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything
Rattlebone Rock
The Halo-Weiner
On Halloween Night
The Perfectly Horrible Halloween
The Teeny Tiny Ghost
There was An Old Lady Who Swallowed a Bat
I'm Not Afraid of This Haunted House
The Pumpkin Fair
Two Little Witches
Trick or Treat, Smell My Feet
One Witch
Miss Fiona's Stupendous Pumpkin Pie

for beginner or early readers --- 
The Ghoul Brothers
Ready Freddy
Horrible Harry
Nate The Great
The Best/Worst Halloween Ever
The Witch Who Was Afraid of Witches
Creepy Crawly Critters
Fluffy 

Bra Drive for Breast Cancer Awareness Month , 10/20

Bloomer is having a bra drive to benefit The Bra Recyclers for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  
Please donate your gently used bras.  
Those who donate will receive a swag bag (while supplies last). 

Bloomers is located at 924 King Street, Alexandria 
Hours are 10 am - 6 pm

St. Clements & Johnny Rockets Fundraiser

Johnny Rockets, in Shirlington, will be hosting a fundraiser for St. Clement's Preschool. If you dine at Johnny Rockets on Wedneday, October 3, and mention the school, 20% of the proceeds will come back to the school. If your plans will take you to Johnny Rockets anytime on October 3, please mention St. Clement's. 

Prescription Drug Take Back Day a Success


ALEXANDRIA POLICE DEPARTMENT
PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE
3600 WHEELER AVENUE
ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA 22304
703-746-6600
NEWS RELEASE
OCTOBER 1, 2012 #12-062
12:30 P.M. DONALDSON
Fifth Prescription Drug Take Back Day a Success in Alexandria

The Alexandria Police Department and the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office collected 165 pounds of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs for destruction at the fourth National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.

On Saturday, September 29, 2012, from 10 A.M. to 2 P.M., the two Alexandria law enforcement agencies, with cooperation from the Substance Abuse Coalition of Alexandria, collected potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs and other medications for destruction at two sites in the City

Over 5000 collections sites nationwide participated in the fifth take back day program this past Saturday and over 3,100 pounds were collected in the Northern Virginia area alone.  In Alexandria, residents dropped off unused prescription medications at two drop sites in the City.  The sites included Police Headquarters and the parking lot of the Del Ray Pharmacy. The service was free and anonymous.

Last Spring, the two Alexandria law enforcement agencies collected over 227 pounds of prescription drugs for destruction in the fourth ever take-back initiative.

This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Many Americans are not aware that medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the United States are increasing at alarming rates, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet.  In addition, many Americans do not know how to properly dispose of their unused medicine, often flushing them down the toilet or throwing them away – both potential safety and health hazards.

Other participants in this initiative include the Partnership for a Drug-Free America; the International Association of Chiefs of Police; the National Association of Attorneys General; the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy; the Federation of State Medical Boards; and the National District Attorneys Association.

Saturday, October 6 - Civil War Artillery with the 1st Connecticut Heavy Artillery

FROM THE CITY OF ALEXANDRIA: 



Saturday, October 6 - Civil War Artillery with the 1st Connecticut Heavy Artillery
Fort Ward, 4301 West Braddock Road
Learn about army life for Union artillerymen stationed in the Defenses of Washington at Fort Ward Museum’s living history program, “Civil War Artillery with the 1st Connecticut Heavy Artillery.” The reenactors of the 1st Connecticut Heavy Artillery portray the duties and soldier life of a regiment that was stationed at Fort Ward during the Civil War. Featured activities include an artillery equipment display, camp life scenarios and cannon firing demonstrations featuring a 3-inch ordnance rifle and a 24-pound Coehorn mortar. Visitors can also view original artillery equipment, ammunition and personal gear worn by Union artillerymen in the Museum exhibit, “Artillerymen in the Defenses of Washington.” Free! 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Weather dependent program. For more information, visit www.fortward.org or call703.746.4848.