Posting on CarlyleTowers.com

Please visit http://www.carlyletowers.com for further posts. Thank you.

1 BR Apartment Needed at Carlyle Towers Condominiums

Renter who currently resides in the East building is looking for another 1BR unit at Carlyle Towers. See the posting at this link. To view other resident postings in our new BuildingLink system visit this link.

Have you signed up for our resident portal yet?

Don't Miss: 9th Annual Comcast Outdoor Film Festival in Historic Old Town Alexandria on July 13 & 14

The City of Alexandria will host the 9th Annual Comcast Outdoor Film Festival on Friday, July 13 and Saturday, July 14 at Waterfront Park, 1A Prince St. All movies begin at approximately 8:30 pm (at dusk). Admission is free.

The 2012 film schedule is as follows:

• Friday, July 13 - Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol 
• Saturday, July 14 - We Bought a Zoo

Popcorn, homemade lemonade, and other food items will be available for sale. A portion of the proceeds earned will benefit Boys & Girls Club of Greater Washington, Alexandria Chapter. Participants may bring blankets or lawn chairs to sit on, and coolers and outside food items are welcome. No grilling allowed.

In the event of rain, the evening’s film showing will be cancelled. Call the Special Events Hotline at 703.746.5592 for weather related cancellations.

Visitors to the historic district are encouraged bike, walk or take the Metrorail Yellow or Blue lines to the King Street Station and take King Street Trolley to the festival. The free King Street Trolley will operate between the waterfront and the King Street Metro until midnight. For DASH schedule information, call 703.746.DASH or visit www.dashbus.com. For Metrobus schedule information, call 202.637.7000 or visit www.wmata.com.

The Outdoor Film Festival is cosponsored by the City of Alexandria and Comcast.

Notice - Old Town Area Parking Study Work Group Meeting

The Old Town Area Parking Study Work Group (OTAPS) has reconvened and will hold their second meeting on Tuesday, July 17 from 5:30 - 7:30 in City Hall on the 2nd floor in room 2000, the Chet & Sabra Avery Conference Room.

The Work Group will discuss the existing parking occupancy data in Residential Parking Districts, the City’s existing Residential Parking Permit Program (RPP) and best practices.

Meetings are open to the public. Meeting materials will be made available at www.alexandriava.gov/ParkingStudies#OldTownStudy.

If you have questions or need further information, please contact Faye Dastgheib at faye.dastgheib@alexandriava.gov, or call 703.746.4139.

AGENDA 

1. History and Background 
2. Existing Conditions 
3. Alternatives for Consideration
4. Group Discussion
5. Public Comment
6. Adjournment

East Building Driveway Post Being Repaired

Contractor was out in the East building drive today repairing the brick post that was damaged by a moving truck recently.

Excessive Heat Warning For The City of Alexandria, Virginia

The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for the entire Washington, DC metropolitan region, including the City of Alexandria, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. today.

The hot temperatures, combined with high humidity, will cause heat indices to reach 110 degrees, or more. Excessive heat is expected to last through tomorrow evening, and the combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will create a situation in which heat-related illnesses can occur.

For information on City facilities available as cooling centers, City pools, and tips on remaining healthy in the heat, visit http://alexandriava.gov/48452.

City of Alexandria Birthday Celebration - Time Change

In order to protect the public health and safety of residents, visitors and businesses, the City’s Birthday Celebration program will run as scheduled beginning at 7:30 p.m. instead of 4 p.m. Oronoco Bay Park will be open to the public all day, but the Birthday Celebration will not kick off until 7:30 p.m., and the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra concert will begin at 8:30 p.m., with fireworks to follow at 9:30 p.m.

The heat wave affecting the Mid-Atlantic is forecast to continue this weekend, with a Heat Warning and temperatures of more than 102 degrees with Code Red Air Quality expected on Saturday, July 7. 

The City advises that persons who are elderly, people with chronic health or fragile medical conditions, and infants and young children not attend, due to the potential for heat-related illness. If you are in doubt as to whether you and your family can handle the heat, stay home. Even young and healthy people can get sick from prolonged exposure if they do not adequately protect themselves. Air-conditioning is the number-one protective factor against heat-related illness and death.

Residents who are planning to attend the Birthday Celebration should take the following steps to protect themselves from the excessive heat:

• Drink 2 to 4 glasses of cool fluids each hour.
• Wear loose, light-colored clothing and stay in the shade outdoors whenever possible.
• Protect yourself from the sun’s rays by wearing sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and bring an umbrella for shade.
• Monitor people around you for signs of heat-related illness. · Don't drink liquids that contain alcohol or large amounts of sugar, which can cause you to lose more body fluid. 
• Avoid very cold drinks, because they may cause stomach cramps. 

 At the event, Verizon will provide free Internet and worldwide telephone services in an air-conditioned mobile unit so people can make phone calls and access the Internet while seeking relief from the heat.

July 4 Power Outage @ Carlyle Towers - FYI

As most of you are aware, we experienced another power outage yesterday morning. We lost power at approximately 5:30 am - it was restored at approximately 7:45 am.

Dominion Power customer service informed management that the outage was necessary to correct problems in their system that resulted from the recent storm. No notice was given prior to the outage. The customer service representative also informed management, unfortunately, that other outages may be necessary as they continue to correct issues in their system. Customer service informed management that Alexandria was the hardest hit with regard to damage – it was categorized as "catastrophic."

Hopefully, additional outages will not be necessary.

Calling All Blood Donors! INOVA Needs You!

INOVA needs blood and has issued a call for blood donors.

Via Old Town Alexandria Patch

Inova Blood Donor Services is calling for eligible blood donors to visit their local blood center or mobile blood drive to donate blood or platelets as soon as possible.

Donors may schedule an appointment, or find a blood drive or donor center in proximity by visiting www.inova.org/donateblood or calling 1-866-BLOODSAVES, or 866-256-6372.

"The inventory of blood at Inova has been severely impacted by a lower than normal blood donor participation rate attributable to an unseasonably mild early spring coupled with summer activities and vacations,” said Inova Blood Donor Services Director Terri Craddock. “This has lead to critically low inventory levels of blood and platelets, leaving hospitals vulnerable in response to emergency patients as well as challenged in meeting in or out-patient procedures requiring the use of blood and blood products."

Inova must collect daily approximately 250 units to keep up with demand, yet collections have dropped to between 150 to 200 units daily. All blood types are needed, but especially O positive, O negative, B negative and A negative in order to meet patient demand this summer.

Blood testing can take 24 to 48 hours before the blood is available to patients.

*Traffic Advisory* Seminary Road Closed Between Echols Ave and Beauregard St

A water main break has occurred at Seminary Road and Fairbanks Avenue. Seminary Road is currently closed in both directions between Echols Avenue and Beauregard Street. Please use alternate routes. If your water service is affected, please call Virginia American Water at 1.800.452.6863.

The Ring Of Fire (Video)

It's not going to be quite as hot as Friday or yesterday but the heat wave still continues.

Many Traffic Lights Still Dark Around Alexandria - Be Careful! (Video)

Many intersections remain dark and continue to be dangerous - please treat these as 4 way stops as the law requires. The police are still spread too thin to cover all of the intersections.

Streets Remain Closed Due To DC Storm

These eight city streets remain closed in Alexandria, Va.:

• Mosby Street at West Mount Ida Avenue 
• Roosevelt Street at Scroggins Street 
• 1800 block of Russell Road 
• 2200 block of Beauregard Street 
• 200 block of Queen Street 
• 100 block of North West Street 
• 300 block of Alabama Avenue 
• 2700 block of Kenwood Avenue 

The streets are closed because fallen trees have become entangled with power lines and, for safety reasons cannot be cleared until crews from Dominion Power are available. Residents are advised to be patient and to stay away from these streets until further notice.

Alexandria Police to Conduct Roaming DWI Enforcement Tonight!

On June 29, Alexandria police will conduct a roaming DWI enforcement effort to deter and apprehend intoxicated drivers. The DWI crackdown will begin at 8:00 P.M. on Friday, June 29, and will continue until 6:00 A.M. on Saturday, June 30. Motorists will be stopped and drivers will be checked to assure that their abilities to drive have not been impaired by alcohol or drugs.

Chief of Police Earl L. Cook reminds drivers that the maximum penalty in Virginia for the first conviction for driving under the influence is 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine and a 12-month suspension of driving privileges. In addition, there are mandatory jail terms associated with these offenses, depending upon the blood alcohol content of the driver. Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles administrative fees may apply as well.

For further details, please call the Public Information Office at 703.746.6600.

Excessive Heat Warning Issued for City of Alexandria

The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for the entire Washington, DC metropolitan region, including the City of Alexandria, until 9 p.m. today. The hot temperatures, combined with high humidity, will cause heat indices to reach 110-115 degrees. An Excessive Heat Watch will remain in effect through Saturday evening, and an extended heat wave could last through July 5. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will create a situation in which heat-related illnesses can occur.

For information on City facilities available as cooling centers, City pools, and tips on remaining healthy in the heat, visit http://alexandriava.gov/62490

Excessive Heat Watch Issued for the City of Alexandria

The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Watch for the entire Washington, DC metropolitan region, including the City of Alexandria, beginning on Friday morning. Excessive heat could last through July 5. On Friday, temperatures are expected to reach near 100 degrees. The hot temperatures, combined with high humidity, will cause heat indices to approach 110 degrees.

The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will create a situation in which heat-related illnesses can occur. Children, the elderly, and people with chronic ailments are usually the first to suffer from the heat. Heat exhaustion, cramps, or in extreme cases, heat stroke can result from prolonged exposure to these conditions. During extended heat waves, people are advised to:

• stay indoors and limit exposure to the sun;
• drink plenty of water;
• wear loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing;
• check on neighbors that may be at risk or do not have access to air conditioning; and
• keep children and pets indoors.

Cooling Centers

A number of air-conditioned City facilities are available. Most City recreation centers are open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more information on their locations, visit alexandriava.gov/RecreationCenters. All City libraries are open today from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For a complete listing of City libraries, visit www.alexandria.lib.va.us.

Pools

The City’s Old Town (1609 Cameron St.) and Warwick (3301 Landover St.) swimming pools provide relief from the effects of excessive heat. For more information about these and other City pools, visit alexandriava.gov/Pools.
For more information on remaining healthy in the heat, visit alexandriava.gov/Health.

Get Ready For a Big Metrorail Fare Increase On Sunday (Video)

Kytja Weir at the Washington Examiner breaks down the numbers. Basically, the long distance riders will get hit the hardest.

*TRAFFIC ADVISORY* - Telegraph Road South Closed June 28 Overnight

Motorists strongly urged to use 

alternate routes to avoid significant delays

The Woodrow Wilson Bridge Project will continue its ongoing work in the Telegraph Road interchange with a complete overnight closure of Telegraph Road Southbound beginning Thursday, June 28 at 10 p.m. through 5 a.m. Friday morning, June 29. Variable message signs will be posted to alert drivers and provide detour information when necessary. This work will have impacts on local traffic, and motorists are advised to seek alternate routes to avoid delays.

Weather permitting, the scheduled work includes:

Thursday, June 28 OVERNIGHT from 10 pm. to 5 a.m. the next morning:

• Telegraph Road Southbound will be completely closed between Duke St. and Huntington Ave. The eastbound and westbound ramps from Duke Street to Telegraph Road South will be closed.
• Detour for Southbound from Duke Street East: Motorists should continue on Duke Street eastbound to U.S. Route 1 South to Huntington Ave. West to Telegraph Rd.
• Detour for Southbound from Duke Street West: Motorists should continue on Duke Street to Van Dorn Street South to the Outer Loop to Telegraph Road Southbound.
• The ramp from the Capital Beltway Inner Loop (I-95/495 South) to Telegraph Road Southbound will be closed.
• Inner Loop Detour: Motorists should continue on the Inner Loop to the Van Dorn Street exit, take the exit and proceed to the Outer Loop back to Telegraph Road.

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

DASH Bus Service Alert: 4th of July Holiday

If you take the bus to get around, DASH will be operating on a SUNDAY schedule for the Independence Day holiday on Wednesday, July 4, 2012.

For more information on DASH routes and schedules, visit www.dashbus.com.

Reminder: No Fireworks Allowed In Alexandria, Virginia

The Alexandria Fire Department reminds those who visit, live, and  work in the City of Alexandria that it is unlawful for any person to store, offer for sale, expose for sale, sell at retail, use or explode any fireworks (including sparklers) within the City limits.  The Fire Marshal will, at the owner's expense, seize and take all fireworks found in the City.  The above offenses are Class One misdemeanors in the City of Alexandria and are punishable by a $2,500 fine and/or up to 12 months in prison.  Fireworks violations may be reported to the Alexandria Fire Department at 703.746.5227 or the Alexandria Police Department at 703.746.4444.

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

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

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

Alexandria Food And Wine Festival Today! (Open Thread)

Going to the Alexandria Food and Wine Festival today? What were your thoughts of the Festval?

Major Capital Beltway Outer Loop Closures June 22-25, 2012

Weather permitting, the Woodrow Wilson Project is planning to shift the THRU/LOCAL split on the Capital Beltway Outer Loop (I-95/495 North) this weekend, June 22-25, to just west of the Eisenhower Connector, after the Van Dorn exit in Virginia, to allow for final paving of the Outer Loop THRU and LOCAL lanes. This work is anticipated to cause major traffic back-ups on the Outer Loop over the weekend, and motorists are advised to “STAY AWAY” and find alternate routes.

The work will proceed as follows:

Friday night, June 22 from 9 p.m. until Monday morning, June 25 at 5 a.m.:

The Outer Loop THRU lanes will close, and the LOCAL lanes between Van Dorn Street and just after Telegraph Road will be reduced to one lane. All Outer Loop traffic will be routed onto this single lane for the duration of the weekend, and significant back-ups are expected. To ease congestion, the ramp from I-95 North to the Outer Loop (495 East) will be closed during the daytime on Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m., and all northbound I-95 traffic will be routed onto the Inner Loop (495 West) over the American Legion Bridge. Motorists may also continue onto I-395 North. Finally, the on-ramp from the Eisenhower Connector to the Outer Loop will be closed from June 22 until July 30.

Monday, June 25 at 5 a.m. until July 30:

The Outer Loop THRU lanes will be open and be in their final configuration. Motorists should be advised of the new Outer Loop split location, as they will need to decide earlier whether to use the THRU or LOCAL lanes to reach their destination. Motorists will be restricted to one Outer Loop LOCAL lane from the split to just past Telegraph Road until approximately July 30, when all lanes reopen in their final configuration. This work is expected to cause significant back-ups for Beltway and local traffic through the month of July, and motorists are strongly advised to use the Outer Loop THRU lanes or seek alternate routes to avoid delays. Only motorists who need to access Telegraph Road, U.S. Route 1 or I-295/National Harbor should use the single LOCAL lane; all other travelers are advised to use the THRU lanes, which will be able to exit at the MD 210 interchange.

This will be the last Beltway construction effort by the Project, and once complete, will resolve the “bottleneck” of lanes approaching the Wilson Bridge from Virginia.

Truck Backs Into East Building Gate

Last night, we're told a moving truck backed into the East building gate nearly taking it down.

NORAD Exercises Tonight & Tomorrow Night

The North American Aerospace Defense Command and a regional component will conduct training exercises Monday and Tuesday nights over the D.C. area.

The flights will be conducted in coordination with the FAA and other authorities overnight both Monday and Tuesday, between 11 p.m. and 5:30 a.m.

Civil aircraft, F-16s, and a U.S. Coast Guard HH-65 Dolphin helicopter will by flying over the region.

NORAD says the exercises will test interception and identification operations, as well as a visual warning system. It will also use the opportunity to certify new command and control personnel.

Feds Investigating COMCAST Over Antitrust Issues (Video)

(Video via Newsy)

Don't Miss: Alexandria, Virginia's Annual USA & City Birthday Celebration on Sat. July 7 (Video)

The City of Alexandria will celebrate its 263rd and the USA’s 236th birthday on Saturday, July 7, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Oronoco Bay Park, 100 Madison St., located at the Potomac River between Fairfax, Pendleton, and Madison Streets. Admission is free.

The celebration includes fun for the entire family, including musical entertainment, children’s activities, community exhibits, and birthday cake. The highlight of the evening is a concert by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra with Maestro Kim Allen Kluge presenting an explosive night of fun and fanfare featuring "Stardust on the Potomac."

Fireworks close out the celebration featuring Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture" with cannon support by the United States Marine Corps, Basic Training School, Quantico, VA at 9:30 p.m. In the event of inclement weather, fireworks only will be rescheduled for Sunday, July 8 at 9:30 p.m. Oronoco Bay Park has lawn seating, and participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets.

Food, such as ice cream, hot dogs, hamburgers, shaved ice and kettle corn will be available for purchase, but everyone is welcome to pack a picnic supper. No grilling allowed.

The King Street Trolley will operate until midnight for individuals wishing to return to the King Street Metro following the celebration. For DASH schedule information, call 703.746.DASH or visit www.dashbus.com. For Metrobus schedule information, call 202.637.7000 or visit www.wmata.com.

Parking is available at Simpson Properties Garage, 700 North Fairfax Street; Tishman Speyer, 44 Canal Center Plaza (at a special $5 fee); and Trammell Crow Company, 601 North Fairfax Street.

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

*TRAFFIC ADVISORY* Telegraph Road North/South Closed June 15–18, 2012

Bridge Demolition starts tonight!

The Woodrow Wilson Bridge Project will continue its ongoing work in the Telegraph Road interchange the week of June 11. Variable message signs will be posted to alert drivers and provide detour information when necessary. This work will have impacts on local traffic, and motorists are advised to seek alternate routes to avoid delays.

Weather permitting, the scheduled work for the coming week and following weekend includes:

Friday, June 15 at 9 pm. CONTINUOUSLY until 5 a.m. Monday, June 18:

• Telegraph Road North and South will be completely closed between the Capital Beltway and Duke Street for bridge demolition. The eastbound and westbound ramps from Duke Street to Telegraph Road South will be closed.
• Detour for Northbound: Motorists should take the Eisenhower Avenue ramp to right on Eisenhower Avenue eastbound to the traffic circle to Holland Lane to Duke Street.
• Detour for Southbound from Duke Street East: Motorists should continue on Duke Street eastbound to U.S. Route 1 South to the Inner Loop to Telegraph Road South.
• Detour for Southbound from Duke Street West: Motorists should continue on Duke Street to Van Dorn Street South to the Outer Loop to Telegraph Road South.

• The ramp from Telegraph Road North to the Capital Beltway Inner Loop (I-95/495 South) will be closed for bridge demolition.
• Detour: Motorists should take the Eisenhower Avenue ramp to right on Eisenhower Avenue westbound to the Eisenhower Connector access to the Inner Loop. 

• The ramps from the Capital Beltway Inner Loop (I-95/495 South) and Outer Loop (I-95/495 North) to Telegraph Road to Duke Street will be closed for bridge demolition.
• Inner Loop Detour: Motorists should take the Pershing Avenue eastbound to Stovall Street southbound to left on Eisenhower Avenue eastbound to the traffic circle to Holland Lane to Duke Street.
• Outer Loop Detour: Motorists should take the Eisenhower Avenue ramp to right on Eisenhower Avenue eastbound to the traffic circle to Holland Lane to Duke Street.

• Pershing Avenue access to Telegraph Road North and Duke Street will be closed for bridge demolition. 
• Detour: Motorists should take Stovall Street to left on Eisenhower Avenue eastbound to the traffic circle to Holland Lane to Duke Street.

Old Town Area Parking Study Work Group Meeting

The Old Town Area Parking Study Work Group (OTAPS) is reconvening on Monday, June 18 from 5:00 - 7:00 in City Hall on the 2nd floor in room 2000, the Chet & Sabra Avery Conference Room.

In the first meeting, the Work Group will continue reviewing and making recommendations on parking management in the Old Town Area that was begun in 2010. On the agenda for the Work Group is a review of the Residential Parking Permit Program (RPPP), strategies identified by the Waterfront Small Area Plan and other parking technology recommendations.

Meetings are open to the public. Meeting materials will be made available at www.alexandriava.gov/ParkingStudies#OldTownStudy.

If you have questions or need further information, please contact Faye Dastgheib at faye.dastgheib@alexandriava.gov, or call 703.746.4139.

AGENDA

1. Welcome and Introductions 
2. Purpose of the OTAPS Work Group 
3. OTAPS and Waterfront Recommendation Status Update 
4. Draft Meeting Schedule and Work Program 
5. Group Discussion 6. Public Comments

Package Tracking Now Enabled For Residents

Have you signed up to use our new residents portal (http://www.ctcalexandria.com) powered by BuildingLink yet?

Staff has now enabled the package tracking part of the new residents portal (http://www.ctcalexandria.com) where when you receive a package at the front desk, if you have signed up for the notification, staff will send you a text message on your phone and/or an email when you receive a package at the desk instantly. No more phone calls are needed. This helps staff by taking less time to notify residents and gives staff more time to interact with residents and focus more on security.

As you can see below, the flat screens in each of the lobby's will also notify you if you have received a package at the desk. So, check the screens when you're getting your mail to see if you have received a package.

To enable package tracking notifications, go to http://www.ctcalexandria.com and login using your username and password. At the top of the screen click 'Edit Profile' tab then the 'Notifications' tab and under 'a new event is recorded for your unit click 'yes' then whether you want an email or SMS text message or both.

Have You filled Out The Carlyle TMP Survey Yet?

Have you completed the annual Carlyle Transportation Management Program (TMP) survey?

This survey collects information about commuting habits and for the first time, includes Carlyle specific questions about transit options for Carlyle.  The Carlyle Community Council (CCC) manages the Carlyle TMP program in coordination with the City to encourage use of transit.

Participation is critical to helping the Carlyle Community Council structure its TMP to best meet the transit needs of workers and residents in Carlyle.  As an incentive to complete the survey, the CCC will give a $5 Metro Card for each completed survey (to the 1^st 500 respondents).  The survey is quick and easy and can be completed online using the links below.  The online survey has a place for contact information so respondents can receive their $5 metro card (that page can also be printed for verification).  In addition, if you are running low on your supply of $5 Metro Cards to hand out to survey respondents, please let me know so we can deliver more to you.  The deadline for submitting surveys is June 22, 2012.

Please note there are two versions of the survey – one for employees -- and one for residents.

Employees: http://survey.alexandriava.gov/s3/2012-CCC-Employee-TMP

Residents:  http://survey.alexandriava.gov/s3/2012-CCC-Resident-TMP

Music At Twilight Concert-John Carlyle Square Park Tonight!

Free Musical performance tonight at John Carlyle Square Park in our Carlyle neighborhood by Dulcie Taylor, featuring original Americana. Performance is from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

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

Hope to see you there!

View Larger Map

Carlyle Towers Looking For Candidates!

Have you picked up a packet yet? Candidate packets for the upcoming annual election for the Board of Directors are available now!

A condo association's board of directors is a government in miniature. The board members are elected by the condo owners to run the association and manage condominium property, which the board may do directly or by hiring a manager. Condo owners rely on the board to resolve community problems ranging from building damage to unruly residents.

Some things the Board makes decisions on are:

• Rules & Covenants
• Maintenance
• Association finances

For more information on responsibilities of the Board, eHow.com has a great example.

Alexandria Waterfront Commission Schedules Annual Waterfront Walk

The Alexandria Waterfront Commission will hold its annual Waterfront Walk on Saturday, June 9 at 10 a.m. The walk will begin at the bulkhead in Windmill Hill Park, 501 S. Union St., and continue north along the Waterfront to Oronoco Bay Park. This annual event provides Committee members the opportunity to assess operational conditions and issues along the Waterfront.

The purpose of the Alexandria Waterfront Commission is to advise the City Council and staff on issues related to Alexandria's historic Potomac River waterfront, and advise on implementation of the Waterfront Small Area Plan. The Commission is composed of 21 members representing a particular neighborhood, community organization, or City committee. The Commission was established by City Council on April 14, 2012, and replaces the Waterfront Committee, which was founded in 1989. The Commission meets the third Tuesday of each month at 7:30 am at City Hall Room 2000, 301 King Street, unless otherwise indicated on the agenda.

For additional information, visit alexandriava.gov/recreation or call Jack Browand, Acting Deputy Director, at 703.746.4343.

Residents! West Building Exterior Work Starts Today!

Via CTC Management:

As most of you are aware, the West Building is scheduled to undergo the same exterior work which was completed on the East and South Buildings in the recent years. While the work is being conducted on the West Building, we wanted all residents to be aware of the upcoming project. Moving forward, we will limit the e-mails, related to the aforementioned work, strictly to West Building residents.

All that being said, Commercial Waterproofing, Inc. (CWI) will perform the work on the exterior of the West Building. The work will consist of the repair of concrete/masonry concerns as well as caulking and painting.

CWI is scheduled to begin work on the project on Thursday, June 7th. They will begin staging their equipment and materials and, if time permits, begin working on the roof level. There will be some noise associated with this part of the job.

We expect work on the "face" of the building to begin on Tuesday, June 12th. We will deliver a schedule later this week informing those tiers to be affected with an estimated time frame for the completion of work on their tiers.

The overall duration of the project should last approximately 21 weeks. Work will be performed Monday thru Friday, between the hours of 8:30 am and 4:30 pm. The work will be noise and will generate a considerable amount of dust. Residents will be instructed to keep their windows closed while the work is in progress (and to keep their blinds or curtains closed as well).

Three large scaffolds and two bucket chairs will be used to complete the work. The contractor will work on two and/or three tiers simultaneously. The scaffolds will have to be staged on the desk. Residents with patio in close proximity to staging areas will be notified.

Management will post information regarding the project schedule and progress on the easels, Channel 970, and BuildingLink.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation during this necessary maintenance project.

Coastal Flood Advisory Tonight For Alexandria

The National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Advisory for the City of Alexandria until 1 a.m. on Thursday. Tides are expected to be one to two feet above normal. This may result in minor coastal flooding at high tide on Wednesday evening, scheduled to occur at 10:58 p.m.

If you're out tonight late near the water, please be careful.

Absentee Voting Deadlines for June 12 Democratic and Republican Primaries (CORRECTION)

On Tuesday, June 12, there will be a Democratic primary for U.S. House of Representatives and Alexandria City Council and a Republican primary for U.S. Senate. There is no party registration in Virginia, however, voters may only vote in one primary and are required to express their political party ballot choice.

Alexandrians who qualify to vote absentee for this election may request an absentee ballot to be mailed to them, or they may cast an absentee ballot in person.

Absentee Voting By Mail
The deadline to submit an application to have an absentee ballot sent by mail is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 5.

Absentee ballot applications are available online from alexandriava.gov/Elections, or by contacting the Alexandria Voter Registration Office at 703.746.4050. Completed absentee applications can be submitted by mail to the Voter Registration Office at the address below. They may also submitted in-person, by fax (703.838.6449), or by scanned email attachment to Anna Leider, anna.leider@alexandriava.gov.  Please be sure to indicate in which primary you wish to vote.

Absentee ballots obtained by mail must be received by the Voter Registration Office on or before Election Day, Tuesday, June 12, at 7 p.m.

Absentee Voting in Person
The deadline for casting an absentee ballot in person is Saturday, June 9, at 5 p.m. To cast an absentee ballot in-person, go to the Alexandria Voter Registration Office at 132 N. Royal St., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22314.

In-person absentee voting hours are Monday through Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with extended hours on the following days:

• Thursday, May 31 from 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
• Monday, June 4 from 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, June 5 from 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

There are many reasons registered voters in the City of Alexandria may qualify to vote absentee, for example, if they are:

• Away on business, vacation, active military service, or at school.
• Working and commuting for 11 or more hours between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Election Day.
• A “first responder” (firefighter, law enforcement, emergency medical technician).
• Physically unable to go to the polls, or a primary caregiver for a family member who is ill.

New Voting Equipment
Beginning with the June primary, voters in Alexandria will be able to use the new eScan paper ballot voting system—it’s accurate, secure and easy-to-use. In addition, Alexandria will still have an accessible eSlate voting machine in every precinct (with headphones) to ensure that all Alexandria voters can vote privately and independently.

For more information on absentee voting, sample ballots and Alexandria’s new voting system, see alexandriava.gov/Elections or call 703.746.4050.

The City Of Alexandria Needs Election Officers

The City of Alexandria Office of Voter Registration and Elections is looking for election officers for the June 12 Democratic and Republican primary elections.

Responsibilities include:

• Preparing the polling place for voting
• Setting up the voting equipment  
• Demonstrating voting procedures
• Closing the polling place

All officers must be registered voters in Virginia and be available to come to a training class on Monday, June 4, at 7:30 p.m. or Saturday, June 9, at 10 a.m. They must also be able to work all day on Election Day, which begins at 4:45 a.m. on June 12.

Election officers are compensated $100 for their efforts. For more information, call 703-746-4050.

*TRAFFIC ADVISORY* Stay Away From Capital Beltway Inner Loop Jun 1-Jun4

Weather permitting, the Woodrow Wilson Bridge Project has scheduled major work on the Capital Beltway Inner Loop (I-95/495 South) for the weekend of June 1-4 in order to complete paving of the final THRU lanes between U.S. Route 1 and Telegraph Road. The work will have significant traffic impacts, with backups expected well into Maryland. Motorists are strongly urged to consider alternate routes during the weekend to avoid significant delays. Details for the work are as follows:

Beginning at 11 p.m. on Thursday, May 31, the THRU lanes of the Capital Beltway Inner Loop (I-95/495 South) will be reduced to one lane between the Woodrow Wilson Bridge and Telegraph Road for allow for roadway construction. A temporary second LOCAL lane will be opened between U.S. Route 1 and Telegraph Road to ease traffic volumes; this temporary lane will be in place through the weekend until Monday morning, and require reduced speeds. Motorists are encouraged to use the Inner Loop LOCAL lanes Friday during the day.

Beginning Friday, June 1 at 8 p.m., and through the weekend until 5 a.m. on Monday, June 4, all access to the Capital Beltway Inner Loop (I-95/495 South) THRU lanes from Maryland and from U.S. Route 1 in Virginia will be closed. The Inner Loop LOCAL exits to Pershing Avenue and Telegraph Road North will also be closed. Motorists on the LOCAL lanes traveling to the Eisenhower Valley should exit at the Eisenhower Connector and return on Eisenhower Avenue East.

Once reopened the morning of June 4, the two new Inner Loop THRU lanes will be complete and in their final configuration, and work will transition to paving the Inner Loop LOCAL lanes. Only one Inner Loop LOCAL lane will be open in this corridor from June 4 until paving is complete July 1, restricting LOCAL lane traffic. Also, during this interval, motorists on the Inner Loop THRU lanes will not be able to exit at the Eisenhower Connector; travelers headed to Eisenhower Avenue will need to exit at the Van Dorn interchange. On July 1, all Inner Loop work (THRU and LOCAL) between Rt. 1 and the Eisenhower Connector will be complete, and the roadway will be in its final configuration of two THRU lanes and two LOCAL lanes.

Please use caution when traveling in this area. All construction-related work and dates are subject to change, depending on weather, material and contractor availability or other unforeseen conditions.

John Carlyle Square Park Fountain Is On!

Before summer starts at that. Last two summers it's been on in mid-August.

How Good Are You At Parallel Parking? (Video)

What if you could park on the street in Carlyle like this:

For the Guinness World Records, one of the most popular world records over recent years has been the hotly contested tightest parallel parking title.

However, the record has indeed once again been smashed , this time by Chinese master wheelman Han Yue. Han last week managed to shave off an incredible 7cm from the record, drifting into a space of just 15 cm (5.91 in) longer than his vehicle during an attempt at the launch in Beijing of a new special edition of the Mini called The Chinese Job.

Alexandria Police Investigate Carjacking

Alexandria Police are investigating a carjacking that occurred in the 5100 block of Duke Street. Around 2:10 A.M. on Thursday, May 31, a 24 year-old City resident and a 21 year-old non-City resident were sitting in a 2004 Nissan Maxima when they were approached by three men. One of the suspects displayed a handgun and told the victims to get out of the vehicle. The three suspects jumped into the car and drove westbound on Duke Street. The victims of the carjacking were not injured.

A lookout was immediately broadcast to area departments and Arlington County Police Department officers located the vehicle a short time later heading northbound on Interstate 395. Arlington County officers initiated a pursuit and eventually got the vehicle to stop on Interstate 395 at the 12th Street exit in Washington, DC. Two suspects were apprehended inside the vehicle and a third suspect was caught after a short foot pursuit. The weapon was recovered inside the vehicle.

Mark Comer, 23, and Marcus Crouch, 19, both of Washington, DC and a 17 year-old Maryland resident were each charged with Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle and a weapons violation in Washington, DC. They are currently being held in that jurisdiction.

The three men have each been charged in Alexandria with Carjacking and Possession of a Firearm in the Commission of a Felony. Additional charges may be pending.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call the Criminal Investigations Section of the Alexandria Police Department at 703.746.6711.

Old Town Farmer's Market Closing Early Tomorrow (6/2)

The Old Town Farmers' Market will close early, at 10:30 a.m., this Saturday, June 2, in preparation for the Armenian Festival. The City hosts the annual festival which features entertainment, food and displays showcasing and celebrating Armenian culture.

Happy National Doughnut Day! (Video)

Celebrated the first Friday in June, National Doughnut Day was launched in 1938 to pay tribute to the selfless spirit of The Salvation Army's doughnut lassies during World War I, and symbolizes the services The Salvation Army continues to provide today.

Mary Ann Barton at Old Town Alexandria Patch has a listing of doughnut stores giving out free donuts on this day and TIME magazine has a listing of 10 things you didn't know about donuts.

Mayor Euille Today: Hurricane/Flood Preparedness & Youth Arts Festival (Video)

Mayor Bill Euille discusses hurricane and flood preparedness with City Engineer Emily Baker, and Emergency Management Coordinator Mark Penn; and talks about the Youth Arts Festival and the new KaBoom playground with Roy Priest, CEO of ARHA and Alexandria student Helen Mengel.

First Half Real Rstate Tax Bills Have Been Mailed

The City of Alexandria has mailed bills for the first half 2012 Real Estate Tax and Refuse Fee to all property owners and/or mortgage companies. First Half Real Estate Tax and Refuse Fee payments are due Friday, June 15. In accordance with City Code, late payment penalty and interest will be assessed on all real estate taxes and refuse fees that are not paid or postmarked by the due date.

The Last Full Measure - A Memorial Day Tribute (Video)

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

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

Happy Memorial Day!

DASH Memorial Day Holiday Schedule

*NOTICE*

On Monday, May 28, 2012, DASH will be operating on a SUNDAY schedule. To view DASH routes and schedules, please visit www.dashbus.com.

Don't Miss: Free Air Show This Weekend At Andrews AFB (Video)

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

Via NBC Washington, you can check out a free air show on Saturday featuring planes that flew during World War II. News4's Megan McGrath has more on what you can expect to see at Joint Base Andrews in Prince George's County.

Courthouse Square Park Fountain's On

A shot if the Courthouse Square Park fountain.

East Building Garge Entrance Out Of Service

The East Building Garage entrance is temporarily out of service. Management says the needed parts have been ordered by our contractor, Overhead Doors. The door will be repaired, at the earliest, tomorrow and worst case scenario, Monday.

City Of Alexandria Absentee Voting Going On Now!

On Tuesday, June 12, there will be a Republican Primary for U.S. Senate and a Democratic Primary for U.S. House of Representatives and Alexandria City Council. There is no party registration in Virginia, however, voters may only vote in one primary and are required to express their political party ballot choice.

Absentee voting for the June 12 primaries began on Friday, April 27. Many Alexandria voters are eligible to vote absentee, but relatively few take advantage of this option. There are several qualifying circumstances. 

 For example:

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

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

Don't Miss: Satin Doll Trio @ The Carlyle Club this Saturday Night! (Video)

Satin Doll Trio is an elegant ensemble that performs in the intimate "supper club" jazz style made popular by artists such as Julie London, Sarah Vaughan, and Peggy Lee during the early 1950's. Buy your tickets online at this link before it's sold out.

Here's a clip of them performing 'East Of the Sun.'

Happy Cinco De Mayo! (Video)

WatchMojo.com explains the history and background of Cinco de Mayo, the holiday that commemorates an initial victory of Mexican forces led by General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguín over French forces in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862.

Reminder: MAJOR Track Work On Metrorail this Weekend (Video)

Via WJLA:

Don't Miss: Ottmar Liebert At The Birchmere This Wednesday!

German-born guitarist Ottmar Liebert composes, performs and records music in a "nouveau flamenco" style, which mixes elements of flamenco with jazz, bossa nova, and other genres. He'll be at the Birchmere in Alexandria this Wednesday. Buy tickets at this link.

While there are many historic concert halls in the D.C. area, no other venue in town has been the site of more acclaimed live albums by scheduled musicians than The Birchmere. Located just six miles from downtown Washington, in Alexandria, The Birchmere isn't your average concert hall; while its size makes it suitable for large audiences, the hall is also filled with quaint tables for the many diners that come to catch dinner and a show. The spacious hall has become an ideal place to catch popular musicians, and a favorite among the performers themselves.

To give you a sampling of what to expect, here's Ottmar & his band Luna Negra performing one of my favorites 'Barcelona Nights.'

Residents! Need An Extra Parking Space?

See this list on our residents portal bulletin board of the latest parking spaces available for rent at Carlyle Towers.

Reminder: Super Moon Tomorrow (Sat. May 5, 2012)

Photo credit: MSM McCarthy Photography on Flickr

If the moon appears quite a bit larger tomorrow night, it's not your eyes, Jim Carrey pulling the moon closer, or the fact that you enjoyed Cinco De Mayo way too much. Tomorrow's moon is considered a 'Super Moon.'

Get a description of what's happening tomorrow night from NBC Washington or click this link to read more about the 'Super Moon' phenomenon.

Operation Cinco De Mayo In Effect This Weekend

Via NBC Washington:

The Alexandria Police Department plans to keep you safe on the roads this weekend with Operation Cinco De Mayo in full effect.

In an effort to deter and apprehend intoxicated drivers in Alexandria, police will begin cracking down on drunken drivers at 8 p.m. Saturday and continue through 6 a.m. Sunday.

As part of Operation Cinco De Mayo, the department’s mobile sobriety enforcement campaign, police will stop motorists to ensure alcohol or drugs haven’t impaired their abilities.

Chief of Police Earl L. Cook reminds drivers that the maximum penalty in Virginia for the first conviction for driving under the influence is 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine and a 12-month suspension of driving privileges.

Mayor Euille Delivers The State Of The City 2012 (Video)

Mayor William D. Euille delivers the 2012 State of the City Address, outlining our community's accomplishments, challenges, and opportunities as Alexandria moves forward into the future. Recorded in neighborhoods and locations throughout the City, Mayor Euille discusses topics such as the economy, quality of life, public safety, education, development, and transportation.

City Of Alexandria's Rules Reminder To Dog Owners

Rules to Remember with your Four-Footed Friends 

For many Alexandrians, there is nothing better than a walk or a run with their four-footed friend. Dogs are welcome in public parks but are to be kept secured by a leash unless in a designated dog exercise area or dog park. Dogs are not permitted in certain areas as marked by official City signage, including athletic fields, playgrounds, and school grounds.

The Department of Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Activities provides eighteen dog exercise areas and fenced dog parks for the convenience and enjoyment of City residents. Unfenced off-leash dog exercise areas have defined boundaries marked by bollards and are designated locations for dogs and their owners to exercise and recreate without disrupting other uses of the parks. Dog owners who believe their pets are not safe in an open exercise area are encouraged to visit a fenced dog park.

Please remember that regardless of whether a dog is in an off-leash or open area, if it defecates on public property the owner/handler of the dog must immediately remove the waste and dispose of it in a trash receptacle.

For complete listing of City of Alexandria Dog Parks & Exercise Areas, and to obtain a copy of the Dog Owner’s Guide to Enjoying the Parks of Alexandria, visit Dogs in Alexandria.

Recent Area Restaurants Closed For Food Violations (Video)

Via WUSA 9, several establishments were closed for health violations in the D.C. area including one in Alexandria.

Weekend Track Work To Affect ALL Metrorail Five Lines (Video)

Heading to the Nationals/Phillies game(s)?, Caps game?, breast cancer walk?, shopping?

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

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

Reminder: Have You Signed Up For Bike To Work Day 2012? (Video)

Our Carlyle community is hosting a Bike To Work Day pit stop this May. Learn more at this link and SIGN UP TODAY! There will be prizes, raffles, free bike repairs, and more.

Sometimes, the greatest way to make an environmental impact is through individual action. Bike to Work Day is an annual, national day of local action where individual bikers make the decision to ride their bike to work. As they meet up with other bikers, their numbers grow to visually demonstrate a growing popular movement. In Washington, DC, the government is responding with programs to accommodate and encourage more bicyclists.

For a listing of more events in our area, visit this link.

If you are unfamiliar about what Bike To Work Day is, here's a great video on this growing movement.

If you have ever wondered what it is like to bike to work from Alexandria, see this really cool video.

Don't Miss: Lemonaide Day In Alexandria Tomorrow! (Sat, May 5, 2012)

Lemonaide Day 2012 is part of the three-day celebration of giving and service in Alexandria called Spring for Alexandria, which takes place from May 3rd - 5th. For more information on Spring for Alexandria, please check their website at www.springforalexandria.org.

Via WJLA:

Children from all over Alexandria will set up lemonade stands Saturday to raise money to benefit charities supporting at-risk kids.

This year’s “Lemonaide Day” marks the 10th anniversary of the cause, which is part of a four-day celebration of giving and service, sponsored by the teen non-profit organization, Kids Helping Kids, Inc.

For more information, visit www.kidshelpingkidsalexandria.org.

Google Adsense Now Live On CTC Sites!

You'll see Google AdSense advertisements sprinkled throughout this site and on CarlyleTowers.com. We will do our best to limit the intrusiveness of these ads but we do hope that if you find something useful from an advertiser that you'll click the link. It all helps to keep this site as well as CarlyleTowers.com and CTCAlexandria.com running.

Thank you for your support!

Bohemian Rhapsody On The Way To School (Video)

The palate cleanser of the week (a.k.a. our video of the week). What a way to go to school! This would surely get me in a good mood in the car - what about you?

La Plata, MD Tornado - 10 Years Later (Video)

Great post by the WJLA weather team on the La Plata, Maryland F4 tornado that hit 10 years ago today.

*WARNING* Graphic language @ beginning of video

Reminder: Building Information & Docs On Our New Residents Portal

Reminder: You can make work requests online as well as get information regarding project schedules, meeting dates, community events & more at our new residents portal located @ http://www.ctcalexandria.com powered by BuildingLink.

Greetings To New CTC Residents!

March 2012

• Marilyn & Richard Mellor - 1210 West 
• Rudolph & Julie Ann Garcia - 1109 South 
• Meryl Schumacker - 2003 South 

 Welcome!

Have You Completed The Communications Committee Survey?

The Carlyle Towers Communications Committee sent out a survey with the last issue of the Carlyle Chronicle. Have you returned it yet? The deadline for the survey is the end of May so there's still time. If you need a copy, copies are available in the lobbys or at the front desk. Thank you!

Did You Miss The Space Shuttle Discovery? (Photos)

In case you missed the Space Shuttle Discovery flying low over D.C., here are some amazing photos from the Space Shuttle Discovery Group Pool on Flickr.

Did You Witness A Crime? There's An App For That

Via NBC Washington:

Did you witness a crime and want to report it anonymously? Now there’s an app for that!

Fairfax County Crime Solvers has launched an app that allows the public to anonymously submit tips to police through their local Crime Solvers program.

Tip Submit employs software Crime Solvers already uses to gather text and email tips.

The free app can auto-locate the nearest Crime Solvers program or law enforcement agency, or you can manually select a location for your tip. You can also submit photos and videos with your tips.

Many jurisdisctions protect tipsters when they provide information to a certified Crime Solvers program.

Tip Submit is the first app of its kind and is available for download on iPhone and Android phones.

Civil War Crimean Oven Lecture at Fort Ward Museum

On Saturday, May 12, Fort Ward Museum will sponsor a lecture on “The Story of Alexandria’s Civil War Crimean Ovens and Camp California.”  The lecture will be presented by Wally Owen, Assistant Director at Fort Ward Museum, at 1 p.m. in the Museum library.  Admission to the program is $10 per person.  Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

The lecture will present new research highlighting the story behind Alexandria’s rare archaeological features that were discovered in 2003 and used to heat hospital tents, and their relationship to Camp California.  Camp California was home to 10,000 Civil War soldiers from December 1861 to March 1862.  Located in today’s West End of Alexandria, the Camp was an early war training ground for the Union Army of the Potomac.

Mr. Owen is a Civil War historian, curator and author who specializes in the Defenses of Washington and the Civil War history of Alexandria. He is the co-author of the book, Mr. Lincoln's Forts: A Guide to the Civil War Defenses of Washington.

Fort Ward is the best preserved fortification in the Civil War Defenses of Washington, an extensive system of forts built to protect the Union capital during the Civil War.  The Museum offers changing exhibits, tours, lectures, and interpretive programs throughout the year.  Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site is located at 4301 West Braddock Road.

For more information, please visit www.fortward.org, or call 703.746.4848.

Our Alexandria: African American Dollhouses - Open Through May 1

Exhibition by Sharon J. Frazier and Linwood M. Smith 

Take in the memories of the historic Parker-Gray neighborhood with this exhibition of miniature dollhouses by Sharon J. Frazier and Linwood M. Smith at the Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe Street.

See more than a dozen buildings and rooms in 1:12 scale, including buildings and furnished rooms inspired by real places in Alexandria. First shown in 2008, this expanded exhibition now features the Carver Nursery School, the Robert Robinson Library, Hayden’s Studio of Photography and more.

The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and suggested admission is $2. For more information, visit www.alexblackhistory.org or call 703.746.4356.

Building Library Page Q & A

A resident, John Glennie, posted this comment in my posting under 'Help Needed/Offered' in the Bulletin Board area of the new residents portal.

Regarding the Building Library, postings seem to appear in a random order. Would it be possible to organize categories, or use separate tabs, to make reviewing items on a particular topic more reader friendly, e.g., Board Minutes, Committee minutes, etc.?

You can actually view the building library by category but, as it turns out, BuildingLink cannot change the order of this page so, if you want to see the documents posted by category, here's what to do:

1.  On the home page, click on 'Building Library' in the building info widget.
2. Minimize the documents widget specific for your unit by clicking the red icon at the top of the widget.
3. Minimize the recently posted/revised documents widget by clicking the red icon at the top of the widget.

You should now be able to view the documents by category. Hopefully, down the road our service provider can change this.

Gas Prices On The Rise - Again (Video)

Gas prices are way up. AAA reports the national average is $3.94. In D.C. it's $4.19. Maryland drivers are paying $4, while Virginia motorists pay $3.94. The hardest hit by the rising costs are those who drive for a living.

News4's Derrick Ward reports.

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

REMINDER: You can find out which station has the cheapest gas in our area at this link on our Carlyle community website.

Metro Rider Group Looking For More Members

Via Dr. Gridlock:

Metro needs riders with disabilities and people 65 and older to serve on its Accessibility Advisory Committee.

The 20-member committee has six members each from Maryland, Virginia and the District, plus two at-large members. Positions are available for residents from the District, Alexandria and Prince George’s, Montgomery, Fairfax, Arlington counties.

The positions are unpaid.

The Accessibility Advisory Committee recently has been active in expressing concerns to Metro about proposed fare hikes and the impact on those with disabilities who may be living on fixed incomes.

To apply, you can complete an application on Metro’s Web site or call 202-962-1100. The deadline to apply is April 29.

Parking Space For Rent! - Carlyle Towers South

PARKING SPACE for rent --- next to South Bldg entrance to the Lobby.

Available April 21, 2012

For details, visit this link or click on 'Bulletin Board' in the NeighborNet section of our new residents portal.

Parking Space For Sale At Carlyle Towers!

Best Parking Space in Carlyle for Sale! Easy in/Easy out. No Circling to get in or out of the building!

Parking Space 2-26 - Convenient to both East and South Buildings $35K

For more details, visit this link or click on 'Bulletin Board' in the NeighborNet section of our new resident portal.

Volunteer Guides Wanted at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum

Apply now for the Saturday, June 2nd Training

Gadsby's Tavern Museum is hosting a new volunteer training, Saturday, June 2 from 1 to 4 p.m for those interested in volunteering their time to give tours of this historic building. This three-hour class will cover all of the basics of giving tours of the museum. No experience is necessary, just a love of history!

Gadsby's Tavern Museum depends on volunteers to provide an educational and memorable .experience of the museum for the thousands of visitors who come for tours every year. Tour volunteers are asked to give a minimum of one tour shift, approximately three hours per month, for one year. Scheduling is flexible and based on the volunteer’s availability; weekend and weekday available. Volunteer benefits include free admission to more than 30 historic house museums in DC, a shop discount, free garage parking while on duty, and continuing education opportunities.

Pre-registration is required. Volunteers can complete an application online through www.gadsbystavern.org or email Michele.longo@alexandriava.gov.

In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Gadsby's Tavern was the center of social and political life in Alexandria and the new Federal City of Washington. The tavern served as the premier gathering place for residents – including George Washington – and visitors to eat, drink, learn, and influence history..

Gadsby's Tavern Museum is located at 134 N. Royal Street in the heart of Old Town, Alexandria and is owned and operated by the City of Alexandria. For more information, please visit www.gadsbystavern.org.

Carlyle Towers Is Going Green!

Next week every resident will receive a memo under their door offering the opportunity to receive all future information electronically or opt to continue receiving memos, notices, and the like under your door...look for the memo next week and remember to Go Green!

Flat Screen TV's Are Up!

One flat screen TV is up in each lobby. These flat screens are part of the new residents portal powered by BuildingLink and will display if you have a package, local weather, important announcements and more! I also hear it may be able to display Metrorail arrival times. Pretty neat.-o.

If you haven't seen them yet, here's what the East building one looks like.

Nationals Fans! Opening Day Is Here! (Open Thread)

Baseball fans rejoice…it's opening day!

Washington Nationals fans are especially excited for pitcher Stephen Strasburg to step onto the mound.

Will you be attending any games this year? What do you think the teams final record will be? Do we have a chance at the playoffs this year? Feel free to discuss below.

Sewage Spill in Four Mile Run

Arlington County has reported a sewage spill in the area of Columbia Pike and S. Dinwiddie Street, spilling into Four Mile Run Stream.

The spill has been contained by crews working the scene, but City of Alexandria residents are advised to avoid direct contact with water in Four Mile Run to eliminate the risk of exposure to untreated sewage. This includes keeping all pets and children away from adjacent areas until further notice.

Residents should not fish in Four Mile Run or have any contact with the waters – including wading or swimming – until further notice from the City. The advisory to avoid all contact is considered an extra precaution until the discharge is stopped and to allow the effect of the discharge to be diminished by natural flushing of the streams.

Vehicle Accident At John Carlyle Square Park

It appears that after talking to several witnesses at John Carlyle Square Park that an SUV ran up on the curb sometime after 8:00 p.m. Saturday night, barreled through the bollards on the east side of the stage area, and came to rest on the west side of the park near the Potbelly Sandwich shop.

The community’s property manager has been notified and we hope to get this area cleaned up this week. There is a definitive smell of oil in the stage area now as the SUV leaked a considerable amount as it went across the stage area.

Replacement Pedestrian Board Requested

One of these signs was taken from the Englehardt Lane and Jamieson Ave intersection crosswalk. A replacement has been requested. For more information, see your Board member Lee Hernly.

What are your thoughts on these signs? Do they hurt or help pedestrians in our neighborhood?

View The New Exterior Design For the Federal Courthouse In Carlyle

The Federal courthouse in Carlyle has put forth a new exterior design which will do away with the ugly jersey barriers currently located on Jamieson Ave in front of our complex. You can view the new design at the front desk.

If you have any questions on the new design, contact your Carlyle Community Council representative Lee Hernly.