Saturday, November 17, 2012
ACPS Discussion on Proposal to Eliminate Class Ranking
FROM ACPS:
Discussion on Proposal to Eliminate Class Ranking
(T.C. Williams)
Tuesday, December 4
6:30 pm
Discussion on Proposal to Eliminate Class Ranking
(T.C. Williams)
Tuesday, December 4
6:30 pm
Discussion on a proposal to eliminate class ranking beginning with the current ninth grade class. This proposal is especially relevant to families of middle school students and current 9th graders. While the proposal has been vetted by various student, parent, and teacher groups as well as the ACPS School Board, we encourage all ninth grade and middle school families to attend this interest meeting to hear about the proposed benefits and to provide valued feedback. All community members are welcome.
Friday, November 16, 2012
Alexandria Police Give Tips to Prevent Package Thefts
ALEXANDRIA POLICE DEPARTMENT
PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE
3600 WHEELER AVENUE
ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA 22304
703-746-6600
PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE
3600 WHEELER AVENUE
ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA 22304
703-746-6600
NEWS RELEASE
NOVEMBER 16, 2012 #12-072
10:30 A.M. DONALDSON
NOVEMBER 16, 2012 #12-072
10:30 A.M. DONALDSON
Alexandria Police Give Tips to Prevent Package Thefts
The Alexandria Police Department wants to remind residents that crime prevention starts at home. Package thefts from doorsteps and front porches during the daytime hours usually increase between the months of October and January, due to the holiday season. Between November 1, 2010 and January 15, 2011, the City had 12 package thefts. Last year during the same time period we had 17 package thefts.Here are some helpful tips to help prevent getting your packages stolen from your residence.
• Consider having packages delivered to another location where someone is more likely to be present during delivery. For example, your work place or a friend or family member’s home.
• Encourage family, neighbors and friends to pick up delivered packages as soon as possible after they are dropped off on your doorstep.
• Track deliveries online and try to meet the arrival of the package.
• Leave special instructions for where to deliver the packages, preferably out of sight from the road.
• Consider having any valuable items insured.
• Request a signature confirmation of delivery.
• Always lock your doors and windows when leaving your home, even if just for a few hours.
• Be neighborly—take a moment to get to know your neighbors.
Please report any suspicious activity or persons in your neighborhood immediately by calling 911 for emergencies or 703-746-4444 for non-emergencies.
The Alexandria Police Department thanks you for your support in keeping our city safe.
Solid Waste & Recycling Announcements
Solid Waste & Recycling Announcements
• Leaf Collection Update
• Alexandria Recycles Day - November 17
• Leaf Collection Update
• Alexandria Recycles Day - November 17
More Information:
• Department of Transportation & Environmental Services (T&ES), Solid Waste Division
• Eco-City Alexandria Initiative
• Department of Transportation & Environmental Services (T&ES), Solid Waste Division
• Eco-City Alexandria Initiative
Leaf Collection
Staff is collecting loose leaves in Zone 4 through Saturday, November 17.
Staff is collecting loose leaves in Zone 4 through Saturday, November 17.
Loose Leaf Collection Updates
• Residents in Zone 1 should rake out on November 17, for pickup starting on November 19.
• Residents in Zone 2 should rake out on November 21, for pickup starting on November 23.
• Tentatively, residents in Zone 3 should rake out on November 26, for pickup starting November 28.
• Residents in Zone 1 should rake out on November 17, for pickup starting on November 19.
• Residents in Zone 2 should rake out on November 21, for pickup starting on November 23.
• Tentatively, residents in Zone 3 should rake out on November 26, for pickup starting November 28.
Staff will be working on Thanksgiving Day and the day after. Leaf bags are collected at the front curb one business day after your regular refuse collection day. Don’t know your leaf collection date? Confused about your ‘leaf collection zone’? Need additional information? Visit: alexandriava.gov/
Alexandria Recycles Day is Saturday, November 17 – link towww.alexandriava.gov/recycling
As part of the City’s Eco-City Alexandria initiative (link towww.alexandriava.gov/Eco-City)
· Paper Shredding Event
Free paper shredding is available to residents from 9am – 1pm, located at2900 Business Center Drive (parking lot).
Free paper shredding is available to residents from 9am – 1pm, located at2900 Business Center Drive (parking lot).
· Mercury Disposal Event
A mercury disposal event will take place from 7:30am - 3:30pm at the City’s Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) facility, located at 3224 Colvin Street. Covanta Energy will distribute $5 gift cards to all City residents who turn in mercury containing devices; such as thermostats, thermometers, sphygmomanometers, manometers, barometers, and hygrometers, as well as liquid mercury. NOTE: Fluorescent bulbs (including Compact Fluorescent bulbs, CFL's) are not eligible for the $5 gift cards but will be accepted for HHW disposal.
A mercury disposal event will take place from 7:30am - 3:30pm at the City’s Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) facility, located at 3224 Colvin Street. Covanta Energy will distribute $5 gift cards to all City residents who turn in mercury containing devices; such as thermostats, thermometers, sphygmomanometers, manometers, barometers, and hygrometers, as well as liquid mercury. NOTE: Fluorescent bulbs (including Compact Fluorescent bulbs, CFL's) are not eligible for the $5 gift cards but will be accepted for HHW disposal.
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Alexandria Celebrates “Black Friday” with Free Parking, Extended Trolley Hours, and More
Alexandria Celebrates “Black Friday” with Free Parking, Extended Trolley Hours, and More
For Immediate Release: November 15, 2012
Old Town Alexandria’s local retailers are set to lure Black Friday shoppers on November 23 with once-a-year discounts, starting at 6 a.m. This year, the free King Street Trolley will begin operating at 6 a.m. Shoppers can board a trolley every 15 minutes and hop on and off at 20 stops between the King St/Old Town Metro Station and the Potomac River waterfront. The early trolley hours are presented by DASH Alexandria Transit Company, the City of Alexandria, and the Alexandria Convention & Visitors Association.
Old Town Alexandria’s local retailers are set to lure Black Friday shoppers on November 23 with once-a-year discounts, starting at 6 a.m. This year, the free King Street Trolley will begin operating at 6 a.m. Shoppers can board a trolley every 15 minutes and hop on and off at 20 stops between the King St/Old Town Metro Station and the Potomac River waterfront. The early trolley hours are presented by DASH Alexandria Transit Company, the City of Alexandria, and the Alexandria Convention & Visitors Association.
The City of Alexandria is offering free parking at parking meters and in all City-owned garages and parking lots as a special incentive for shoppers to visit Old Town to make their holiday purchases. The following garages and lots are opening at 6 a.m., with free parking all day:
- Market Square Garage, 108 North Fairfax St.
- Courthouse Square Garage, 111 South Pitt St.
- Thompson’s Alley Garage, 10 Thompson’s Alley
- North Union Street Garage, 220 North Union St.
- South Henry Street Lot, 112 South Henry St.
- Cameron/St. Asaph Street Lot, 210 North St. Asaph St.
Dozens of Alexandria’s independently owned shops are offering special discounts, with early and extended hours on Black Friday. Participating stores offer 30% discounts from 6 to 8 a.m., 20% from 8 to 10 a.m., and 10% starting at 10 a.m. Additional shops will be offering sales and special promotions throughout the day. This effort is coordinated by the Shop Local Alexandria project and the Old Town Boutique District.
Shoppers can stay for the City of Alexandria Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at 7 p.m. on Market Square, at 301 King St. As the official kick-off to the holiday season in Alexandria, the ceremony includes a performance from Santa’s Frosty Follies, a special visit from Santa Claus, and community caroling.
Families can get classic photos with Santa throughout the season with the Santa Claus is Coming to Old Town event. Starting November 24, Santa and Mrs. Claus will take pictures with children every Saturday and Sunday between Thanksgiving and Christmas at One Wales Alley, the location of Bike and Roll Alexandria. The cost for pictures is $15 for a 5 x 7 print. The event is presented by the Old Town Boutique District, in partnership with the City of Alexandria and Bike and Roll Alexandria and with the support of area businesses.
For more information on all the Black Friday festivities, free parking, participating shops, photos with Santa, and more holiday events in Alexandria, visitwww.VisitAlexandriaVA.com.
Shoppers can stay for the City of Alexandria Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at 7 p.m. on Market Square, at 301 King St. As the official kick-off to the holiday season in Alexandria, the ceremony includes a performance from Santa’s Frosty Follies, a special visit from Santa Claus, and community caroling.
Families can get classic photos with Santa throughout the season with the Santa Claus is Coming to Old Town event. Starting November 24, Santa and Mrs. Claus will take pictures with children every Saturday and Sunday between Thanksgiving and Christmas at One Wales Alley, the location of Bike and Roll Alexandria. The cost for pictures is $15 for a 5 x 7 print. The event is presented by the Old Town Boutique District, in partnership with the City of Alexandria and Bike and Roll Alexandria and with the support of area businesses.
For more information on all the Black Friday festivities, free parking, participating shops, photos with Santa, and more holiday events in Alexandria, visitwww.VisitAlexandriaVA.com.
Photos with Santa
Have your picture taken with Santa and support The Alexandria Firefighter, Inc. IAFF Local 2141 and their Helping Hands Relief Fund and the annual AFD Toy Drive for Children.
More information about those efforts here:http://tinyurl.com/HHRFAFDTOY
Santa will be visiting historic Firehouse 201, located at 317 Prince Street in Old Town Alexandria for three days this year to take photos in front of the historic 1863 “Champion” Steam Fire Engine.
Saturday, November 24th
Sunday, November 25th
Sunday, December 2nd
Hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Your $10 donation supports the Helping Hands Relief Fund and the AFD Toy Drive. Your donation includes a coupon for a complimentary medium resolution digital image or single 4x6 print. All of the images taken are posted at http://local2141.org and allows you to purchase and download additional digital copies of the images starting at .99 cents each and/or make quality prints starting at $2.99 for a 4x6 size image.
Alexandria Firefighters Inc., IAFF Local 2141 represents Alexandria's Firefighters, Paramedics, Fire Marshals, Dispatchers, and Code Enforcement personnel. For more information about our organization please visit http://www.afdlocal2141.org
More information about those efforts here:http://tinyurl.com/HHRFAFDTOY
Santa will be visiting historic Firehouse 201, located at 317 Prince Street in Old Town Alexandria for three days this year to take photos in front of the historic 1863 “Champion” Steam Fire Engine.
Saturday, November 24th
Sunday, November 25th
Sunday, December 2nd
Hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Your $10 donation supports the Helping Hands Relief Fund and the AFD Toy Drive. Your donation includes a coupon for a complimentary medium resolution digital image or single 4x6 print. All of the images taken are posted at http://local2141.org and allows you to purchase and download additional digital copies of the images starting at .99 cents each and/or make quality prints starting at $2.99 for a 4x6 size image.
Alexandria Firefighters Inc., IAFF Local 2141 represents Alexandria's Firefighters, Paramedics, Fire Marshals, Dispatchers, and Code Enforcement personnel. For more information about our organization please visit http://www.afdlocal2141.org
Thursday, November 15, 2012
City of Alexandria to Hold 38th Annual Toys for Tots Benefit Square Dance on Sunday, December 2
For Immediate Release: November 15, 2012
City of Alexandria to Hold 38th Annual Toys for Tots Benefit Square Dance on Sunday, December 2
The City of Alexandria’s 38th Annual Toys for Tots Benefit Square Dance is scheduled for Sunday, December 2 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., at Lee Center Exhibit Hall, 1108 Jefferson St. This year’s theme is “Feelin’ Great at Thirty-Eight” and features a special 3 p.m. performance by Capital Squares Demonstration Team.
The annual square and round dance benefits the United States Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Drive. Recommended donation for each couple is a new, unopened toy or a $10 minimum contribution (singles $5). All toys and proceeds from this dance will remain in the Washington metropolitan area. If you do not wish to participate but would like to donate a toy, you may drop off your donation until 3 p.m. at the Lee Center.
The City’s Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities and the National Capital Area Square Dance Leaders Association and Washington Area Square Dance Cooperative Association are cosponsoring the event.
For additional information, call the City’s Special Events Hotline at 703.746.5592 or the Office of Special Events at 703.746.4343.
The City of Alexandria is committed to compliance with the City’s Human Rights Code and the Americans with Disabilities Act. To request a reasonable accommodation or to request materials in an alternative format, call Cheryl Lawrence, Director, Office of Special Events, at 703.746.5419 (VA Relay) or e-mail cheryl.lawrence@alexandriava.
The annual square and round dance benefits the United States Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Drive. Recommended donation for each couple is a new, unopened toy or a $10 minimum contribution (singles $5). All toys and proceeds from this dance will remain in the Washington metropolitan area. If you do not wish to participate but would like to donate a toy, you may drop off your donation until 3 p.m. at the Lee Center.
The City’s Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities and the National Capital Area Square Dance Leaders Association and Washington Area Square Dance Cooperative Association are cosponsoring the event.
For additional information, call the City’s Special Events Hotline at 703.746.5592 or the Office of Special Events at 703.746.4343.
The City of Alexandria is committed to compliance with the City’s Human Rights Code and the Americans with Disabilities Act. To request a reasonable accommodation or to request materials in an alternative format, call Cheryl Lawrence, Director, Office of Special Events, at 703.746.5419 (VA Relay) or e-mail cheryl.lawrence@alexandriava.
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Fence Replacement Scheduled at Windmill Hill Park Basketball Court
Fence Replacement Scheduled at Windmill Hill Park Basketball Court
The Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities will replace the existing fence along the basketball court and swing set along Union Street in Windmill Hill Park, 501 S. Union St.The work is scheduled for November 15-18 and the park will remain open during the replacement.
The will replace the existing four foot high fence in kind. Residents will see equipment in use and crews at work during the daytime. Residents are encouraged to exercise caution around the construction area. 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 or e-mail bethany.carton@alexandriava.
City of Alexandria Hosts Dedication Ceremony for Kelley Cares Miracle Field
City of Alexandria Hosts Dedication Ceremony for Kelley Cares Miracle Field
For Immediate Release: November 14, 2012
The City of Alexandria invites the public to the dedication ceremony of the Kelley Cares Miracle Field at the Nannie J. Lee Recreation Center, 1108 Jefferson St., on Saturday, November 17. The ceremony begins at 5 p.m. In the event of inclement weather, the dedication ceremony will be held inside the Lee Recreation Center. Following the dedication, continue the celebration by attending a demonstration game with participants of the Miracle Baseball League of Alexandria; and a whiffle ball game featuring City officials, VIPs and community members.
A Miracle Field is a rubberized surface baseball diamond that allows people with special needs the opportunity to play outdoor sports in a safe and fun environment. The rubberized surface allows wheelchairs and walkers to be used safely. This is the first outdoor sports field constructed inside the Beltway specifically with special needs players in mind. The field features special plantings that have sensory and tactile benefits for players and picnic tables that allow people to sit and enjoy the atmosphere. A Wall of Fame has been erected to recognize the Miracle Field donors and a mural, incorporating features from therapeutic recreation classes, will be completed on an adjacent building by a local artist.
The Kelley Cares Miracle Field represents a successful public/private partnership, with participation from the entire community in providing an opportunity to this special segment of our population. The City of Alexandria contributed $285,000 in funding, the Miracle League of Alexandria raised over $150,000 in private sector funds, and construction firms donated almost $150,000 in services to the project. Donations ranged from $2 to $40,000 from a number of different sources throughout the community.
The City of Alexandria is committed to compliance with the City’s Human Rights Code and the Americans with Disabilities Act. To request reasonable accommodations or for additional information, visit alexandriava.gov/Recreation or contact the Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities at 703.746.5402.
The City of Alexandria is committed to compliance with the City’s Human Rights Code and the Americans with Disabilities Act. To request reasonable accommodations or for additional information, visit alexandriava.gov/Recreation or contact the Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities at 703.746.5402.
Alexandria Police Investigate Attempted Robbery at Bank of America
ALEXANDRIA POLICE DEPARTMENT
PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE
3600 WHEELER AVENUE
ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA 22304
703-746-6600
PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE
3600 WHEELER AVENUE
ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA 22304
703-746-6600
NEWS RELEASE
NOVEMBER 14, 2012 #12-073
3:00 P.M. DONALDSON
NOVEMBER 14, 2012 #12-073
3:00 P.M. DONALDSON
Alexandria Police Investigate Attempted Robbery at Bank of America
Alexandria Police are investigating an attempted bank robbery that occurred at the Bank of America, located at 600 N. Washington Street. Around 12:45 P.M. on Wednesday, November 14, a woman entered the bank and gave the teller a note demanding money. The teller backed away from the window and the suspect fled the bank. She was last seen on foot heading eastbound on Pendleton Street. No one was injured.
The suspect is described as a black female, approximately 5’5” with a medium build. She was wearing jeans, a dark jacket with a navy blue and gray scarf wrapped around her head and sunglasses.
Anyone recognizing the suspect from the surveillance photos or with additional information about the robbery is asked to call Detective Sean Casey at 703.746.6853 or the Criminal Investigations Section of the Alexandria Police Department at 703.746.6711.
Detectives would like to remind witnesses that they can remain anonymous.
America Recycles Day
FROM THE CITY OF ALEXANDRIA:
America Recycles Day is Thursday, November 15
Join thousands of Americans by pledging to recycle more on Thursday, November 15. As part of the City’s Eco-City Alexandria initiative, the City strives to continue increasing residential and commercial recycling rates.
How are you recycling more? Make the pledge online or take part in two local events on Saturday, November 17:
Join thousands of Americans by pledging to recycle more on Thursday, November 15. As part of the City’s Eco-City Alexandria initiative, the City strives to continue increasing residential and commercial recycling rates.
How are you recycling more? Make the pledge online or take part in two local events on Saturday, November 17:
- Paper Shredding Event Free paper shredding is available to residents from 9 am – 1 pm, located at 2900 Business Center Drive (parking lot).
- Mercury Disposal Event
A mercury disposal event will take place from 7:30 am - 3:30 pm at the City’s Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) facility, located at 3224 Colvin Street.Covanta Energy will distribute $5 gift cards to all City residents who turn in mercury containing devices; such as thermostats, thermometers, sphygmomanometers, manometers, barometers, and hygrometers, as well as liquid mercury.
For more information about the City’s recycling programs or services visit:alexandriava.gov/Recycling.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
365 - colors
is it just me or do the colors of the leave seem really vibrant after this mornings rain?
Is what I tweeted earlier today.
Here are some colorful trees we saw on our afternoon outing.
Is what I tweeted earlier today.
Here are some colorful trees we saw on our afternoon outing.
Winter 2013 Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities Program Guide Available
For Immediate Release: November 13, 2012
Winter 2013 Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities Program Guide Available Online Monday, December 3
Subscribe by Friday, November 23 to Receive Program Guide by Mail
Subscribers to the Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities will receive the Winter 2013 Recreation Program Guide by Monday, December 10 and the guide will be posted online Monday, December 3. Registration for Winter 2013 classes begins on Wednesday, December 19 for City residents and Friday, December 21 for nonresidents.
As part of the City of Alexandria’s Eco-City Initiative, the Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities has reduced the number of printed program guides and no longer automatically mails them to all households. Only individuals who have subscribed will continue to receive the program guide by mail.
To be added to the mailing list for the Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities’ Program Guide, individuals may request a free subscription online or by telephone. Requests must be received by Friday, November 23 to guarantee receipt of the Winter 2013 Program Guide by mail. To subscribe, visit alexandriava.gov/recreationor call 703.746.4343.
The program guide is produced three times each year: Fall Programs (August); Winter Programs (December); and Spring & Summer Programs (March).
By December 10, printed copies of the Winter 2013 Program Guide will be available to the public at City Hall, recreation centers, and public libraries located throughout the City. Individuals can also download a free copy online at alexandriava.gov/recreationbeginning Monday, December 3.
Alexandria Choral Society Presents: Tis the Season
Tis the Season - Holiday Music for Chorus and Brass
Featuring the Alexandria Choral Society with brass quintet with additional music by Pro Coro Alexandria
Includes the performance of the two winning selections from Alexandria Choral Society's annual Winter Carol Competition, composed by Alexandria-area students
Saturday, December 1, 2012,
8:00 p.m.
George Washington Masonic Memorial
101 Callahan Drive, Alexandria, VA
101 Callahan Drive, Alexandria, VA
Tickets:
Adult/Senior and Military/Student: $25/$15/$10
Youth 13 and Under: Free
For more information, visit the Alexandria Choral Society website at http://www.alexchoralsociety.org or call 703-232-1664.
Monday, November 12, 2012
Mt. Vernon Community School's Big Flea Kick
FROM THE NEIGHBORHOOD LISTSERV:
MV Big Flea's 2013 campaign kicks off Saturday, Nov. 17, from 2 p.m. to
4 p.m. It's the first Shop N Drop of the season: The events where you
can donate to the Flea (here's our donation guide
<http://mvbigflea.wordpress.co
shopping. Our space is at 3815 Mt. Vernon Ave., in the same shopping
center as MOM's Organic Market.
The Big Flea is a massive flea market that benefits the Mount Vernon
Community School PTA. It will take place on May 4, 2013 at the Mount
Vernon Community Center. We'll hold Shop N Drops monthly until March and
April, when they'll take place weekly.
If you can't make the Shop N Drop but want to donate, please email us
and we'll arrange a pickup! Email mvbigfleadonations@gmail.com.
City of Alexandria Searches for Poet Laureate – Deadline Extended to November 26
For Immediate Release: November 12, 2012
City of Alexandria Searches for Poet Laureate – Deadline Extended to November 26
The City of Alexandria’s Office of the Arts is in search of a Poet Laureate to promote an appreciation of poetry as an art form, encourage the creative writing and reading of literature, and promote literacy through poetry. The individual will serve as Poet Laureate for three years and receive a modest honorarium.
All nominations must be submitted to the Office of the Arts, 1605 Cameron St., Alexandria, VA 22314 by 5 p.m. on Monday, November 26. The new Poet Laureate will be named in March of 2013.
Individuals can nominate themselves or be nominated by someone else. Nominees must be distinguished in the field of poetry through a body of work, published or unpublished. Nominees are limited to individuals who live, work or study in the City of Alexandria. Individual must live, work or study in the City of Alexandria for a minimum of 1 year prior to applying and through the 3-year term of service. If selected, individuals must be able to fulfill Poet Laureate ceremonial role, including presentations of work appropriate for all audiences and should be a minimum of 18 years of age. Members of the Alexandria Commission for the Arts and City of Alexandria staff are ineligible for nomination.
Amy Young, the City’s current Poet Laureate, is a resident of Alexandria and has read, studied and written poetry since she was a child growing up in Washington, DC. For the last 11 years, she has led the Writer’s Lab for 11 and 12 year olds with learning disabilities at the Lab School of Washington. She has also taught writing workshops at night for learning disabled adults. Amy has studied poetry in George Mason University’s Master of Fine Arts program and has been trained to lead intensive writing workshops for people from all walks of life.
Ms. Young was appointed to a three year term in April 2010 by the Poet Laureate Selection Panel. Since that time, she has initiated several new programs including the Arlandria Young Poets Club, “Dog Days of August” and Map Alexandria through Poetry and Photography.
Prior Ms. Young’s appointment, Mary McElveen was appointed to a three year term in April 2007. Ms. McElveen was very active in the community, visiting schools, teaching poetry classes, creating and reading poems for City events, and bringing her love of poetry to many other places and events. Her appointment inspired interest in Poet Laureate programs in several other communities, including Fairfax County, VA and Santa Clara County, CA, which just appointed a Poet Laureate. Mary also worked with Office of the Arts to involve businesses, civic associations, libraries, schools, and recreation centers in National Poetry Month and Put a Poem in Your Pocket Day activities.
The City of Alexandria’s first and only Poet Laureate of record was Jean Elliott, a 78-year-old Alexandria resident. The Alexandria City Council voted Elliot as Poet in Residence and honored her by placing a plaque on her S. Fairfax St. home in 1979. She passed away in 1999.
The Commission and the Office of the Arts, a division of the Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities, work together to promote and cultivate the arts in the City of Alexandria. For more information, visit www.alexandriava.gov/arts or call 703.746.5588.
All nominations must be submitted to the Office of the Arts, 1605 Cameron St., Alexandria, VA 22314 by 5 p.m. on Monday, November 26. The new Poet Laureate will be named in March of 2013.
Individuals can nominate themselves or be nominated by someone else. Nominees must be distinguished in the field of poetry through a body of work, published or unpublished. Nominees are limited to individuals who live, work or study in the City of Alexandria. Individual must live, work or study in the City of Alexandria for a minimum of 1 year prior to applying and through the 3-year term of service. If selected, individuals must be able to fulfill Poet Laureate ceremonial role, including presentations of work appropriate for all audiences and should be a minimum of 18 years of age. Members of the Alexandria Commission for the Arts and City of Alexandria staff are ineligible for nomination.
Amy Young, the City’s current Poet Laureate, is a resident of Alexandria and has read, studied and written poetry since she was a child growing up in Washington, DC. For the last 11 years, she has led the Writer’s Lab for 11 and 12 year olds with learning disabilities at the Lab School of Washington. She has also taught writing workshops at night for learning disabled adults. Amy has studied poetry in George Mason University’s Master of Fine Arts program and has been trained to lead intensive writing workshops for people from all walks of life.
Ms. Young was appointed to a three year term in April 2010 by the Poet Laureate Selection Panel. Since that time, she has initiated several new programs including the Arlandria Young Poets Club, “Dog Days of August” and Map Alexandria through Poetry and Photography.
Prior Ms. Young’s appointment, Mary McElveen was appointed to a three year term in April 2007. Ms. McElveen was very active in the community, visiting schools, teaching poetry classes, creating and reading poems for City events, and bringing her love of poetry to many other places and events. Her appointment inspired interest in Poet Laureate programs in several other communities, including Fairfax County, VA and Santa Clara County, CA, which just appointed a Poet Laureate. Mary also worked with Office of the Arts to involve businesses, civic associations, libraries, schools, and recreation centers in National Poetry Month and Put a Poem in Your Pocket Day activities.
The City of Alexandria’s first and only Poet Laureate of record was Jean Elliott, a 78-year-old Alexandria resident. The Alexandria City Council voted Elliot as Poet in Residence and honored her by placing a plaque on her S. Fairfax St. home in 1979. She passed away in 1999.
The Commission and the Office of the Arts, a division of the Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities, work together to promote and cultivate the arts in the City of Alexandria. For more information, visit www.alexandriava.gov/arts or call 703.746.5588.
City of Alexandria’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony Scheduled for Friday, November 23
For Immediate Release: November 12, 2012
City of Alexandria’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony Scheduled for Friday, November 23
Kick off the holiday season by making plans to attend the 2012 City of Alexandria Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, November 23, at 7 p.m. at Market Square, 301 King St. Admission is free, and the event will be held rain or shine.
Entertainment features a message from the Mayor, a visit from Santa, a performance of Santa’s Frosty’s Follies by the Metropolitan Fine Arts Center, and caroling with a community sing along.
The public is encouraged to take public transit or walk to the event. Visitors to Old Town can take the Metrorail lines to the King Street Station, and then take the free King Street Trolley to the event. For DASH schedule information, call 703.370.DASH or visitwww.dashbus.com. For Metrobus schedule information, call 202.637.7000 or visitwmata.com. For a parking map, visit alexandriava.gov/12490.
For additional information, please call the City’s Special Events Hotline at 703.746.5592 or visit alexandriava.gov/recreation.
The City of Alexandria is committed to compliance with the City’s Human Rights Code and the Americans with Disabilities Act. To request a reasonable accommodation or to request materials in an alternative format, call Cheryl Lawrence, Office of Special Events, at703.746.5419 (VA Relay 711) or e-mail cheryl.lawrence@alexandriava.
Sunday, November 11, 2012
365 - nest
when you go for a nature walk, and the leaves have begun to fall, you can see all sorts of new things......
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