What's Up Arlington

What's Up on Hiatus

2009-11-02T20:54:00.001Z

As I'm sure you can tell from the lack of posting, this blog is not really active at the moment.

This makes me sad :-(.

I'm not going to delete the blog in the hopes that one day we will be able to revive it, but for now, What's Up Arlington! blog is on official hiatus.

Search for DC's Funniest Federal Employee at the Arlington Drafthouse beginning 9/16!

2009-09-10T23:08:00.002Z

Forgive the lazy post, but the following is copied directly from the press release. Sounds like a fun event, though:

Washington, DC (September 7, 2009) – Misunderestimated Productions, LLC announces the return of the Funniest Fed® Competition, sponsored by Federal News Radio. Funniest Fed® is a competition in which current Federal employees and members of the military compete for the title of DC’s Funniest Federal Employee by performing original standup routines in front of a live audience. Twenty-percent (20%) of the contest proceeds will be donated to the Fisher House Foundation.

Thirty-two (32) federal employees will compete in the 5-week contest which begins on Wed. Sept. 16^th at 7:30 pm at the Arlington Cinema Drafthouse in Arlington,VA. Contestants hail from the U.S. Departments of Treasury, Environmental Protection, State, Homeland Security, Justice Heath and Human Services as well as the Federal Highway Administration, Smithsonian, Federal Election Commission, Census Bureau and the U.S. Senate among others.

Contest dates and additional information is at www.funniestfed.com. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at www.arlingtondrafthouse.com

Community Volunteer Network Monthly Meetup

2009-08-28T17:26:00.003Z

Hope to see you out at Community Volunteer Network's September meetup which will be held this coming Tuesday at Yaku in Courthouse. Community Volunteer Network is an Arlington group of 20 and 30 somethings that volunteer on evenings and weekends. They've got lots of volunteer events coming up in September and will have sign up sheets and more information at the meetup.

Yaku was recently named one of the best new restaurants by Northern Virginia Magazine and it is located on the corner of Clarendon Blvd and N. Scott Street. The closest metro stop is Court House, on the orange line.

For more information about Yaku and to view their Happy Hour specials, please visit: http://www.latinconcepts.com/yaku

Volunteer Donors Needed for Look Cool for School Program

2009-08-21T14:03:00.003Z

There's one week left to help outfit a low income student for the new school year!

The Look Cool for School program, now in its 6th year, has helped hundreds of families give their children that special, new back to school outfit. This school year Arlington-Alexandria Coalition for the Homeless, with the help of volunteers, would like to provide our students with the opportunity to receive something new. They especially need gift cards for places like Target so the kids can get what they need.

If you are interested in participating please contact Brenda Orr at 703-525-7177x35 or borr@aachhomeless.org as soon as possible. A formal participation form will then be emailed to you. All donations are due to AACH by Friday, August 28.

Arlington in the Movies

2009-08-10T18:59:00.002Z

Check out this interesting little video about films that have been filmed in Arlington. Arlington National Cemetary, Fort Meyer, Iwa Jima, Rosslyn, Route 50, Cyrstal City, and others locations all make the cut in such movies and TV as the West Wing, All the President's Men, State of Play.

Interesting stuff ...

Great New Courthouse Restaurant

2009-08-05T14:20:00.002Z

I'm hearing great things about Yaku in Courthouse.

Courthouse is all too often the step child to Clarendon, so it would be great to have some more options there.

Yaku is also running a great August promotion.

Anybody checked it out?

Rich, Single, and Arlington?

2009-07-14T20:36:00.002Z

WTOP reported today that if you are single and looking for a date with money then you may want to hang out in Arlington.

Money Magazine ranks Arlington No. 2 in the nation on its Best Places for the Rich and Single. Read more.

Thoughts?

The Arlington Rap

2009-06-12T16:26:00.002Z

Sorry, we're pretty much on long-term hiatus with this blog, right now, but if anything ever deserved a post, this is it ...

Arlington - the Hot Place for Political Food

2009-05-05T21:27:00.003Z

In case you didn't see the news, President Obama and VP Biden lunched today at Arlington's own Ray's Hellburger.

Check out actual video here.

And this past weekend, a group of Republicans held an event at Pie-Tanza.

I guess Arlington is now the place to eat for the DC elite.

National Monopoly Tournament

2009-04-14T20:29:00.002Z

The National Monopoly Tournament is being held in Arlington this week ... seriously, check this out.

National Monopoly Tournament? I guess I shouldn't be surprised.

New Bar Rumored to Open in Courthouse on Friday

2009-03-09T19:00:00.006Z

Quick heads up that my spies tell me Velocity Five is opening up on Friday. Eagle-eyed What's Up Arlington readers will remember it's going in at the spot formerly occupied by King Street Blues.

Note to Velocity Five - the Green Lantern called, he wants his logo back.

Recession Hits Sugar Daddies, Gold-Diggers Hardest

2009-02-25T19:31:00.005Z

I still can't figure out if this article is satirical or genuine -- and by "genuine" I mean genuinely and completely out-of-touch.

This line sums it up: "In the end, he said, a loving relationship should be able to thrive without the rib-eye steak and Moet."

Wow. I guess love really can conquer all.

Arlington's Best Bars

2009-02-25T04:00:00.000Z

According to Washingtonian Magazine ...

In no particular order.

Drumroll please ...

Thoughts?

Follow County Board Meetings on Twitter

2009-02-24T07:13:00.001Z

Arlington Young Democrats have started Twittering this year's County Board meetings. You can track the Tweets here. You can also watch meetings online at the County Board website.

Arlington Republicans have also joined Twitter, you can follow their feed here.

Rhodeside Grill and il Radicchios to close?

2009-02-24T04:00:00.000Z

Guest Post by Arlington Local:

Rumors continue to swirl regarding il Radicchios and Rhodeside Grill being demolished to make way for the expansion of The National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) headquarters.

This isn’t in the least surprising for Arlingtonians, as another local restaurant and a bar stand in the way of a developers’ plan.

I gave il Radicchio a call to find out when they would close up shop. The waiter gave a quick and scripted response—stating that there are no plans to demolish the restaurant, known for its authentic Italian cuisine and endless pasta bowls. He then scaled back his response and said that they should be “safe through December 2009”. It seems like the details of the demolition are still being finalized.

While they aren’t the most aesthetically pleasing buildings-- the character, friendly service, and great food are worth taking advantage of while we still can.

How Much Would You Pay for Parking in Clarendon?

2009-02-21T15:37:00.004Z

The Arlington Sun Gazette's Scott McCaffrey recently took aim at a proposal to charge for parking after 6pm and on weekends in the Arlington County garage in Clarendon at 3033 Wilson Blvd (entrance on Highland Street):

THUMBS DOWN: To one of the dumber proposals being considered by county officials to help solve their budget shortfall.

Board members this weekend will be asked to advertise for public hearing a proposal to start charging residents $3 to park on nights and weekends at the Department of Human Services garage on Wilson Boulevard. Parking is now free, and keeping it that way will encourage patronage of Clarendon venues as well as keep vehicles off neighborhood streets.

This proposal is a nickel-and-dime approach to governance that is beneath Arlington’s leaders to propose, let alone enact. County Board members can make quick work of this wrongheaded proposal by simply refusing to advertise it for a hearing.

There are certainly drawbacks to the proposal. But considering these fees would be on the low end of current parking fees in Clarendon, Scott's rhetoric is a little over the top. Would any husband really turn to his wife and say, "Honey, I was going to take you to Restaurant 3 for our anniversary tonight, but it's $3 for parking now, so we're having Hungry Man TV dinners instead. Hope you like salisbury steak."

The current subsidized free parking also incentivizes driving over Metro, biking or walking. Why make the effort and pay at least $1.35 to Metro to Clarendon when parking's plentiful and free?

What do you think? Would a $3 fee be a reasonable considering the county's $35 million budget gap? Or is it a "nickel-and-dime approach," as Scott suggests, and the deficit could be better made up through general tax increases?

Bye to the Blues, Ray's Relocates

2009-02-15T15:47:00.005Z

I'm sorry to confirm the news first reported on Twitter by @jamiebowers that King Street Blues in Courthouse has suddenly closed. A sign on the door doesn't give an explanation for the closing but says something called the Velocity Sports Grill will be opening in that location.

If history is any indication, that may not last long either. Just since 2002, that spot has switched from RT's Seafood to M&S Seafood to KSB and now to Velocity.

But the void in Courthouse dining options is already being filled by the new location of an Arlington favorite. As We Love DC reports, Ray's the Steaks has re-opened just across Clarendon Blvd from the former KSB.

Feb. 24th: Mardi Gras in Clarendon

2009-02-13T12:44:00.002Z

Just a quick heads up that the Mardi Gras parade in Clarendon is coming up on Tuesday, February 24th. Check out pictures from last year's event here and read Eric's review from 2006 here.

Blood = Free CAPS tickets

2009-02-09T03:00:00.000Z

This is a deal you absolutely can not beat. Give blood, get free CAPs tickets.

Here's the deal ...

Who: The American Red Cross and Washington Capitals

What: Caps Blood Drive

When: Saturday, February 28, 2009

8 am- 4 pm

Where: Kettler Capitals Iceplex-

627 N. Glebe Rd. 8th floor, Arlington, VA 22203

Giveaways: First 500 participants receive a pair of Caps tickets, All participants receive a Peter Bondra bobble head;Peter Bondra will appear at Kettler Iceplex

More Info

Pay What You Can For Dante - 2/5

2009-02-04T19:32:00.001Z

Sorry, no time to write something clever, but this seems too good to let pass, so I'm just going to copy and paste below ...

Pay-What-You-Can Preview of "Dante" on Thursday, Feb. 5 at 8 PM

Thursday, February 5 at 8:00 p.m.

Cash/check only at the door. No advance reservations/ no assigned seats.

Suggested minimum: $5 per person.

Location: The Rosslyn Spectrum, 1611 N. Kent Street, Arlington, VA 22209. FREE Parking. Rosslyn Metro.

Seating is first come, first served and limited to theatre capacity. Seating will start at 7:40-7:45 p.m.

In an unprecedented, ambitious production, Synetic Theater takes on Dante Alighieri's epic masterpiece, the tale of a lost traveler's visionary journey through the torments of Hell before the final attainment of redemption and Paradise. Delving into the core of Dante's original work, this modern retelling will bring the Italian classic to life in a way never seen before.

Tickets $15-40. For more information or to order tickets, call 1.800.494.8497 or visit www.synetictheater.org

Read the "Dante" blog here

March Mania Basketball!

2009-02-04T03:00:00.000Z

Looking to add a fun weekend of basketball to your schedule?

Neighborhood & community hoopsters are invited to field teams at this year’s March Mania Basketball Tournament at Thomas Jefferson Community Center.

It’s a great way to build community spirit AND help the Red Cross!

This 24 team tournament has both recreational and competitive divisions. The team registration fee is only $600, which includes a minimum of 2 games, plus you're helping out a great cause.

The deadline is February 16, so act fast.

More Details!

What do you want in your Park?

2009-02-03T20:54:00.002Z

Do you ever wonder who decides what features go in a park?

You decide, that's who. And now, Ballston, it's your chance to help decide what goes in the new Mosaic Park.

Yes, I know you don't like meetings, but this is a cool opportunity.

This future park in the R-B Corridor will include athletic courts, an interactive water feature, paths, and plazas among other things. What do you want to see in it?

Just come to one of the following meetings and let your voice be heard:

Wednesday, February 4, 2009 - 7:00 PM
Tuesday, February 10, 2009 - 7:00 PM

You can attend any of the meetings above (same content)

For more information on this project, check out the project webpage.

NRECA Building, Conferene Room CC2
4301 Wilson Boulevard(Corner of N. Taylor St. & Wilson Blvd.)

Community PresentationThursday, February 19, 2009 - 7:00 PM
3033 Wilson Blvd, Rooms 7E & 7F

Are Video Rental Stores Going Extinct?

2009-02-01T21:04:00.001Z

A few months back, I noticed that the Hollywood Video at Glebe & Columbia Pike had closed. Then a couple of weeks ago, I drove by the Video Warehouse on S. Glebe and that was shuttered, as well. Those closures are in addition to the Hollywood Video on Lee Highway that's been closed for some time now.

Are Arlington's video rental stores going extinct? I think you could count the remaining stores on one hand -- a Hollywood Video on Wilson Blvd. in Courthouse, generic rental outlets in Bluemont and Ballston, and maybe one or two others. But while there's plenty of deserved nostalgia for vanishing book stores and record shops, I don't think anyone could say the same about video stores.

Maybe it's time video stores went the way of the dinosaur. Between economic pressures, competition from Netflix, and new technologies like TiVo and video-on-demand, I wouldn't be surprised. I've recently stopped driving to Hollywood Video and instead use the RedBox at my local Harris Teeter. Why pay $4 per video plus gas when you can get a DVD for $1 a day at RedBox?

Moving Words Poetry Contest

2009-01-30T18:36:00.002Z

The deadline has past
I missed the contest - it didn't last
But I'm sad ,what to do
Submit my poem below, just for you ...

It's that time of year
Let's hear a cheer
The Moving Words contest is here

Last year I didn't win
That was a sin
I think they threw my entry directly in the trash bin

The deadline for Moving Words is today.
You’ve still got time, submit what you may.
Poems must be typed and ten lines or less.
It’s OK, you don’t need to stres.

Winning poets have their poems displayed on Metro buses.
You can read them while passing under bridge trusses.
Winners receive 100 dollars.
That’s enough to make you want to “holler”.

So get your poem(s) in now.
Maybe I’ll read it, when I’m out and about.

OK, so I don't think I would have won, but hey you enjoyed it, right?

Don't Let Taxes Get You Down

2009-01-29T08:00:00.000Z

Nobody likes taxes and if you are a young person trying to get by in this area you probably don't have a lot of money to throw at the problem. There are many free tax prep clinics available to low income residents. I was involved with one in my area last year and I can vouch for the high quality volunteer tax preparers and the personal attention you get by attending a tax prep clinic.

If you are comfortable filing electronically on your own, use the IRS Free File program. They will give you step by step instructions if you are low income (under $56,000 in 2008) or you can just use the efiling without instructions if you are over income.

Not scared of Tax Prep? Why don't you consider volunteering to staff one of these clinics! They are recruiting volunteers now to be tax preparers.

Do You Know the Way for a Slippery Day?

2009-01-28T19:47:00.007Z

A quick tip for Buckingham and Ballston residents who need to walk to Metro on icy days like this. There's a covered walkway that goes all the way from Glebe Road to Fairfax Drive.

Just enter the Ballston Common Mall and go to the second floor. Go through the tunnel over Wilson Blvd and follow the walkway through the office building, then through another tunnel over 9th St N. The walkways will continue past more offices, then you'll take the escalator down and walk another few steps to the entrance to the Ballston Metro.

It's only a couple of blocks, but on a slippery day like today, it's a lifesaver. Or at least, a coccyx-saver.

Sing Your Valentine Something Special

2009-01-28T03:00:00.001Z

It's not too early to start thinking about Valentine's Day.

Looking for a unique gift for Valentine's Day?

How about a singing Valentine?

Guys - yes, I know this sounds painfully corny to you, but ...

Girls - what do you think? Corny or fantastic gift.

Here are the details:

Potomac Harmony Chorus of Sweet Adelines International presents:

Send that special someone an extra special valentine! “A SINGING VALENTINE!"
Say “I Love You” with a Song!

Friday Feb. 13th AND Saturday, Feb. 14th 2009

$50.00 Singing Valentine performed in person with candy and card, available in the Washington metropolitan area, including Northern Virginia & Maryland suburbs.

$20.00 Singing Valentine via Telephone

Choose Two Songs from this list:* Blueberry Hill * Cuddle Up A Little Closer * I Don't Know Why I Love You Like I Do ** It Had to Be You * Let Me Call You Sweetheart *

For more information call 703-764-3896 by Feb. 9th or email: potomacharmony@yahoo.com

Know Any Fabulous Women?

2009-01-26T06:00:00.000Z

The Arlington County Commission on the Status of Women is recognizing Persons of Vision. If you know someone who has "demonstrate(d) a strong commitment to women’s issues and have, over time, developed and communicated their vision for women and engaged community members and other leaders in order to realize this vision" then you should nominate them! (A person of vision can actually be male or female).

Nominations are due February 9th.

Make Your Condo or Apartment Building Recyle More!

2009-01-23T02:00:00.000Z

Want to help your building be greener?

Attend a training session for multifamily recycling coordinators on Wednesday, February 4 at 7:30 p.m. at the Arlington Central Library.

Arlingtonians for a Clean Environment (ACE) is seeking people with an interest in recycling to join a pilot program for volunteers.

Volunteers will serve a one-year term as recycling coordinators for their apartment or condominium with the goal to improve participation by residents in the building's recycling program.

ACE will provide training, resource materials, and support. For more information or to RSVP to the 2/4 session, contact Arlingtonians for a Clean Environment at office@arlingtonenvironment.org or 703-228-6427. This program is being conducted in partnership with the Arlington County Department of Environmental Services Solid Waste Bureau.

Out with the Old, In with the New at EatBar

2009-01-19T02:33:00.004Z

Tallula (Washington Boulevard & Pershing Drive, closest Metro: Clarendon) is featuring a special inaugural menu tonight through Wednesday. But it looks like they're having much more fun on Tallula's EatBar side, with special "Out with the Old, In with the New" menus on Monday and Tuesday:

MONDAY NIGHT | OUT WITH THE OLD | TEXAS BBQ PARTY
Eatbar specials will include: Country-Fried Steak Strips w/ Black Pepper Gravy, Brisket or BBQ Plate with Corn Bread & Slaw, Texas-Style Chili, Texas Chili Burgers, and Texas beer specials from Shiner
TUESDAY NIGHT | IN WITH THE NEW | CHICAGO STREET FOOD
Eatbar specials will include: Three of Red Apron’s famous Chicago Style Dogs (Chili dog, straight Chicago dog, BBQ dog), Italian Beef Sliders, Italian Sausage “Pigs In A Blanket” - also, Chicago-scene cocktail specials will be offered all night long!

My only objection: italian sausage? This is a town known for its superfans, its polish sausage, and a certain team known as Da Bears.

Real Time Inagural Updates

2009-01-16T15:33:00.002Z

Looking to stay in the loop on inaguration day with real-time updates on what's going on?

Check out the commuter page and learn how to sign-up.

Make MLK Day A Day ON

2009-01-14T15:29:00.005Z

UPDATE: Opportunities are filling up quick. As one person pointed out, almost all of the inside opportunities are full. If you are looking for an inside opportunity you may call your local nursing home, hospital, or animal shelter because they will remain open on the holiday and are always looking for volunteers on an ongoing basis. You can search for particular agencies here.

Since 1994, MLK Jr Day (which has been observed as a holiday since 1986) has been a National Day of Service. Over the last 15 years it has been slowly growing in participation and interest, but this year with it coinciding with the inauguration of the first black President it is going to be a big deal.

DC has got tons of celebrations as well as ways to volunteer on Monday. Arlington is not getting as much attention but still has plenty of opportunities:

SATURDAY

Arlington Mill Highway Cleanup

Sponsor: Arlingtonians for a Clean Environment | Location: Arlington, VA 22204 Help Arlingtonians for a Clean Environment pick up trash from neighborhood streets in honor of Martin Luther King Day of Service. Meet at Arlington Mill Community Center, 4975 Columbia Pike, Arlington VA. more

Stream Clean-Up: Spout and Pimmit Runs Confluence

Saturday, January 17 at 10:00 AM

Small parking lot above the junction of Glebe and Chain Bridge Roads next to Chain Bridge on the Arlington side (Arlington, VA)

Join us at 10:00 am, Saturday the 17th, to help clean up the area around the ends of Spout Run and Pimmit Run where they... View Event Details

SUNDAY

Honor Martin Luther King, Jr.

Sponsor: Arlington Co. Parks, Recreation And Cultural Resources | Location: Arlington, VA 22204

Help us as we honor Dr. King at Arlington's 39th annual tribute to him and his legacy on Sunday, January 18th at the Thomas Jefferson Middle School Theatre. Entertainment will include a gospel group, a liturgical dance troupe, a. . . more

Wakefield High School Field Cleanup

Sunday, January 18 at 12:00 PM

Wakefield High School (Arlington, VA)

Meet at Wakefield High School stadium field behind the tennis courts to help us pick up trash from along the fences and under the bleachers... View Event Details

Welcome Visitors To Arlington During The Inauguration

Sponsor: Arlington Convention & Visitors Service | Location: Arlington, VA 22202
Volunteers will have the opportunity to provide visitors with maps of Arlington and to assist them with shopping and dining questions. We will need at least 2 volunteers posted at each location listed below (total of 6 volunteers required). Dates. . . more

MONDAY
Remove Invasives from Arlington's Nature Center

Monday, January 19 at 1:00 PM

Long Branch Nature Center (Arlington, VA)

Here's your chance to help remove non-native, invasive plants from Arlington, Virginia's Long Branch Nature Center. This beautiful natural area and education center is only... View Event Details

Paint/decorate the foster care visitation room -FULL (STILL NEEDS DONATIONS)

Monday, January 19 at 10:00 AM

Arlington DHS (Arlington, VA)

I am a DHS foster care worker who would like to request volunteers to paint/decorate a small room in a local DHS building. This... View Event Details

Trail Litter Cleanup-Theodore Roosevelt Island

Monday, January 19 at 10:00 AM

Theodore Roosevelt Island (Arlington, VA)

Come help clean up a local hiking trail with views of the Potomac River and DC! Monday Jan 19, 10am-12pm The Potomac Heritage Trail starts at Theodore... View Event Details

Oath of All of US (Day of Service - January 19)

Monday, January 19 at 12:00 AM

Youth Venture (Arlington, VA)

People of all ages and from all walks of life, LED BY YOUTH, will gather to share their own personal versions of the Oath of... View Event Details

Arlington Academy Hope truck packing event

Monday, January 19 at 8:00 AM

Wanda residence (Arlington, VA)

Arlington Academy of Hope, a grassroots non-profit located in Arlington, VA is shipping a container of books and supplies to our school and clinics in... View Event Details

AFAC Food Drive (FULL FOR VOLUNTEERS - NEED DONATIONS)

Monday, January 19 at 9:00 AM

Arlington Food Assistance Center (Arlington, VA)

Food Drive in support of the Arlington Food Assistance Center whch provides groceries to Arlington residents in need. We need all the non-perishable food item you... View Event Details

Dyke Marsh Clean-Up
Monday, January 19 9am-noon
Dyke Marsh and Belle Haven Mearina
Join groups from Arlington in cleaning up this strech of GW Memorial Pkwy in Alexandria. This will be a large intergenerational event.

For more information on opportunities in their area check out this Volunteer Arlington Spotlight.

Please let me know if there are opportunities I missed!

Looking for some history of Martin Luther King, Jr including interesting video and photos? Visit the Arlington Library's site.

Arlington's Best Diner Goes Smoke-Free

2009-01-04T17:26:00.000Z

They said Arlington's bars would never voluntarily go smoke-free ... then Liberty Tavern did and places like Eleventh, Union Jacks, and Clarendon Grill soon followed.

They said sports bars would never go smoke-free ... then Summers created a separate smoke-free bar, followed by Four Courts and Crystal City Sports Pub, and Thirsty Bernie's opened entirely smoke-free.

Now Arlington's best diner, Bob & Edith's at Columbia Pike & S. Wayne St., is going 100% smoke-free:

Arlington bars and restaurants have no excuses left for not going smoke-free. Really, what are places like Rock Bottom, Bailey's, and Ri Ra's waiting for?

Hmmm. Maybe there's a pattern here. Seems like locally-owned places tend to listen to Arlingtonians and go smoke-free, while nationally-managed chains tend to stick to their smoky status quo. What do you think?

Expect a Plague of Locusts Any Minute Now

2008-12-31T15:57:00.006Z

I'm telecommuting today. The weather outside my window so far:

10am: Tropical storm-force winds

10:15am: Near-whiteout snow

10:30am: Thunder and lightning

10:45am: Back to just wind

Got a text from Arlington Alert warning that traffic lights are out in all directions at Seven Corners due to the wind. (Arlington Alert update 11:52am - "Traffic lights at 7 Corners are working again. Numerous traffic lights out across Fairfax due to high winds.")

The forecast for the rest of the day, and I am not making this up, is "rain and snow and windy." Translation: "We don't know either."

UPDATE: Check out this amazing video shot by my friend Jeremy ...

Arlington County Board's Annual New Year's Day Meeting

2008-12-30T21:29:00.000Z

The Arlington County Board has a tradition unlike any other in the entire country, holding its first meeting of the year on the first day of the year. Yes, you can tell what a bunch of political nerds we are in Arlington that we can't even wait one day to listen to our elected officials make speeches.

It's actually the most entertaining, concise board meeting of the year. They swear in the chair and vice chair, then each member lays out their priorities for the year ahead. Here are the details:

What: Arlington County Board's Annual New Year's Day Meeting
Date: Thursday, January 1, 2009
Time: 11:00am - 12:15pm
Location: County Board Meeting Room (3rd floor), 2100 Clarendon Blvd

In addition to receiving a greater sense of civic pride, they usually also put out free coffee and donuts. Hope to see you there!

Columbia Pike Trolley?

2008-12-30T15:34:00.002Z

Yes, Arlington there is a Santa Clause ... maybe.

As reported by the Sun Gazette ...

The Northern Virginia Transportation Authority has included a request for $50 million to construct the streetcar as part of a larger wish list that will be forwarded to the incoming Obama administration. The new administration is considering a national public-works stimulus package that is closing in on $1 trillion in scope.

Ignoring the politics for a second, personally I think a trolley on Columbia Pike would be a fantastic addition to an up and coming neighborhood. What do you think?

Arlington Will Be Just Fine?

2008-12-19T19:33:00.004Z

In Tuesday's Arlington Connection, the article "Recession? What Recession?" highlighted one GMU professor's opinion that the economic crisis might not cause Arlington to go into a recession. John McClain, a GMU professor living in Arlington, said "Areas that are close to the Metro and have access to jobs will be fine". (Read the article for all of his facts and reasoning..)

What about you? How is the economic situation affecting your job, lifestyle, house, etc?

Being an Arlington County employee I am facing a loss of some benefits, no increase in pay of any kind, an expectation that we can do more with less in every aspect of our work, and an uncertain outlook for 2010. But I am confident that I will keep my job. So I am very grateful. Anxious ... but grateful.

And as a public servant I feel a responsibility to do more with less. We have less public money to spend and much greater need for services. This is a time when we will come together and truly earn our good will.

As I gather with my family for the holidays the number one question is going to be "how is the economic crisis affecting you?" Everyone has a story. Everyone is being affected.
How are you?

(Image found here)

Free Movie

2008-12-18T16:37:00.002Z

Are you a fan of the cinema and interested in free events? Then head over to Central Library tonight for "The Trap". Looks like an interesting and suspenseful film!

Tonight: State of the County

2008-12-16T19:38:00.002Z

Just a quick heads up that Arlington County Board Chair Walter Tejada will be delivering the State of the County address tonight at 6:30pm at the Arlington County Board Room, Room 307, 2100 Clarendon Blvd (Courthouse Metro).

Sunday: "The World in 70 Acres" at Potomac Overlook

2008-12-16T11:01:00.000Z

Here's a cool event coming up Sunday:

Potomac Overlook Regional Park will celebrate the winter solstice with a screening of “The World in 70 Acres,” a documentary about the park, on Sunday, Dec. 21 at 2 p.m.

The video explores various aspects of the park - its human history, natural setting, programs and activities and also covers educational themes and topics such as energy and earth science. The video's script was written by the park's chief naturalist, Martin Ogle, and is narrated by Keith Tomlinson, manager at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens. The documentary was produced and edited, largely as a volunteer effort, by local videographer David Schneider.

The video is short enough (25 minutes) to be accessible and enjoyable for children 6 and older. Refreshments will be served. Also featured will be live music by Jody Marshall, whose hammered dulcimer music can be heard in the documentary.

For reservations and more information, call (703) 528-5406.

Holiday Music

2008-12-15T04:00:00.000Z

Looking for a little holiday caroling sing-a-long? Check out the below ...

Potomac Harmony Chorus of Sweet Adelines International presents:
Here We Go A Caroling!
Holiday Sing-Along!
Sunday, December 21, 2008
3:00PM
Thomas Jefferson Theater
125 South Old Glebe Road
Arlington, VA
Admission: FREE
For more information call 703-764-3896 or email: potomacharmony@yahoo.com

Arena Stage on the Cheap

2008-12-11T04:00:00.000Z

Looking for some great theatre on a budget? Arena Stage offers a limited number of $10 tickets for patrons under 30 on Monday nights.

Sounds like a great deal, and I've heard great reviews about the current show ... Next to Normal

Global Write-a-Thon

2008-12-10T21:49:00.003Z

Put this in the better late than never category ...sounds interesting if you're free this evening.

Event: 2008 Global Write-a-Thon!
December 10--International Human Rights Day--marks the 60th anniversary of the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. You can honor this important day by participating in Amnesty International's Global Write-a-thon--the world's largest letter writing event.

Write letters on behalf of prisoners of conscience and human rights defenders at risk of severe human rights violations. Join Group 159 for an evening of letter writing, food and fun!

When: Wednesday, December 10, 2008, 5-9 p.m.

Where: Liberty Tavern 3195 Wilson Boulevard Arlington, Virginia 22201:

Stop by Liberty Tavern between 5 and 9 p.m. on Dec. 10 and meet Group 159 members and write letters demanding an end to human rights abuses around the world!

A Breath of Fresh Air in Ballston

2008-12-09T21:29:00.001Z

The list of nightspots in Clarendon that are smoke-free (or have a dedicated smoke-free bar) keeps growing: Clarendon Grill, Eleventh, Liberty Tavern, Tallula's EatBar.

By contrast, until recently, the list in Ballston has been short. In fact ... nonexistent.

While Ballston has some smoke-free restaurants like Pinzimini, Sangam, Ted's Montana Grill and Willow, there's been nowhere I'd go for a drink on a Saturday night. (As always, if I'm missing a place, feel free to correct me in comments.)

As someone who lives near Ballston, it's especially frustrating for two reasons:

Bailey's, Front Page and Rock Bottom are all already set up with two separate bars. Why not make one smoke-free? Front Page and Rock Bottom even have outdoor patios they could reserve for smokers. Pretty ridiculous that they refuse to make any accomodation whatsoever for the 75 percent of us who are non-smokers.
An unusually cold autumn. Do I bundle up and walk an extra 20 minutes in the bitter cold to Clarendon? Or put up with the smoke in Ballston?

Fortunately, I have a new option with the opening of Union Jack's in the Ballston Common Mall in the space formerly occupied by Romano's Macaroni Grill. I stopped by for the first time this week not knowing it was smoke-free and noticed it still had that new restaurant smell.

Sure enough, I got an email the very next morning from Union Jack's responding to an email I'd sent a few weeks back saying that yes, they are totally smoke-free!

To find more smoke-free establishments near you, check out FitArlington's Smoke-Free Restaurants Guide. (One warning -- some restaurants are listed in the guide even if they allow smoking at the bar.)

Fellow Dukes Unite in Rossyln Tonight

2008-12-08T14:03:00.002Z

It's time for Madison Monday again - and this time the JMU Alumni happy hour will be held at Continental Pool Lounge in Rosslyn. There will be drink specials, games, door prizes, and the latest news on our winning Football Team and MetroDukes activities.

Putt Putt on a Budget

2008-12-05T04:00:00.000Z

I've written about the proposed putt putt course in Ballston several times on this blog. I don't know why, but the subject just interests me.

So, times are tight now, and the subject is coming up again. Seems like there is still some interest, but it's getting a little more oposition.

What do you think about a putt-putt course in Ballston?

Get Involved! - Greenbrier Learning Center

2008-12-04T04:00:00.000Z

My friends at the Greenbrier Leaerning Center passed some info along that I'd like to share with you. Greenbrier is a really great place to get involved if you're looking for a way to give back to your community. So, without further ado ...

How can you get involved?

Check out Greenbrier Learning Center (GBLC) of South Arlington, serving low-income, refugee and immigrant children and families. This small nonprofit possesses the perfect amount of idealism to satisfy any of Arlington’s post grad idealists, newcomer novices, or world changers.

Greenbrier works with a small, but dedicated and dynamic staff, most of whom are bilingual with experiences in global volunteer initiatives. this small organization brings about quality programs offering kids afterschool homework and reading help, which, for most of the students who are non-native English speakers, is vital. There are also lessons on computer skills, how to study, and living healthy lifestyles.

Partnering with other established non profits in the area through the afterschool network also lends to the community vibe emanating from the walls of Greenbrier and its staff. Greenbrier Parters include Reading Connection, Phoenix Bikes, and more.

To make all of these great programs a reality, though, GBLC relies on the people of Arlington and their commitment to volunteering. We have a great group of high-school students, college students, young professionals, and seniors who help us to get things done.

Come join us in tutoring a 3rd-5th grader, leading a game of soccer or starting a running club, teaching arts and crafts, or working with families. Some other volunteer opportunities include helping out in the office, pro bono services, internships, or working on a committee for one of our fundraisers.

Volunteering makes such a huge difference in this small but growing organization. To volunteer please contact: Sarah Bordeaux at e. volunteer@gblc.org p. 703 379 6488 ex 104

Is There a Stereotypical "Arlington Girl"?

2008-12-03T16:58:00.004Z

Want to get a conversation going at happy hour tonight? Ask your friends if they think there's such a thing as an Arlington Girl.

My thoughts? While it's a clever try, unfortunately this UrbanDictionary.com definition is just too generic - it could be describing a yuppie woman just about anywhere. The Rock Bottom reference feels like a Mad Lib where the blank was "popular happy hour spot."

And why is it limited to females? Couldn't you just as easily poke fun at the "Arlington Dude" with the half-zip pullover, jeans, and flip-flops who goes to Crystal City Sports Pub to watch Hokies games?

What do you think?

SOLD OUT - "Signature Scene" for Young Professionals

2008-12-03T06:00:00.003Z

UPDATE:
Sorry to say this event is sold out. The show is running for several weeks and has tickets available but tomorrow's event is sold out. I'll let you know if I find out about any other opportunities for reduced prices tickets or special events.

In my humble opinion, Les Miserables is the best musical ever. So you better believe I'm headed to Signature Theatre tomorrow night for the "Signature Scene" event.

Signature's offering a package with 1/2 tickets for young professionals (under 40) and a special wine and cheese reception before the show. The package is $32.50, which is quite reasonable when you consider the costs of going out and the quality of the show.

The venue is in Shirlington which is packed with great options for dining beforehand or going out after.

Not available this Thursday? It appears that Signature Theatre hosts a Signature Scene event on the first Thursday of a run each time a new show opens. The next one is a satiric comedy, "The Little Dog Laughed" on February 12th.

CRM's Monthly Meetup Tonight

2008-12-02T15:27:00.003Z

Come join CRM for the December meetup tonight at 7 pm at The Clarendon Grill, which recently went smoke free! Look for CRM-ers in green shirts and wear yours if you have one.

Lisa Acker Dorsey will be speaking about the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation and she will be giving more details about a benefit that she will be holding on Thursday, December 4th.

Happy Hour specials go until 8 p.m. and include:
$1 off appetizers
$1.75 Budweiser/Bud Light, Coors Light & Miller Light bottles
$2.50 Yuengling
$3.50 Corono/Corona Light

We will also be highlighting the upcoming activities which still have sign ups open:

Committee of 100 Meeting - December 10th

Holiday Decorating at Cherrydale Health and Rehab - December 13th

OAR Project Xmas Angel Wrapping Party - December 18th

Holiday Elves at Ballston Mall - December 20th

Happy Hours Are Always For A Good Cause

2008-12-02T06:00:00.001Z

... but this one could have a big impact in the struggle to find a cure for Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis.

Come out this Thursday night to Front Page in Ballston to have a good time and support the cause. This fundraiser was organized by Lisa Dorsey, an active CRM member who is living with Crohn's Disease and training for a half marathon through the Team Challenge. To learn more about Team Challenge please go to Lisa's Blog.

How you can help you ask?
Attend the Happy Hour and do either or all of the following:

* Purchase a wrist band: $10 for the wrist band gets you 2 free raffle tickets and drink specials from 5pm to 9pm. All of the $10 will go straight to CCFA!

- $2 Miller Lite Bottles
- $3 Corona Bottles
- $3 SoCo and Lime Shots
- Half price bottles of wine
- Half price appetizers

* Purchase raffle tickets: $2 per ticket
I will be raffling off various prizes throughout the evening so the sooner you get there the greater your chances are of winning something. Some Prizes include:

- $100 GC to Sette Bello in Clarendon
- $ 75 GC to Harry's Tap Room in Arlington
- $50 GC to Hard Times Cafe
- $35 GC to Crystal City Sports Pub
- Several Free Manicures to Mystique Nails in Falls Church

All entry fee and ticket raffle proceeds go directly to CCFA.

Kicking Off Turkey Day with the Turkey Trot

2008-11-27T16:03:00.006Z

What was my time in the 2008 Arlington Turkey Trot 5K? I ran the whole thing.

When you're as lousy a runner as I am, that's the only measuring stick that counts. And with temperatures in the mid-30s at starting time and the race almost entirely up and down gentle hills in Lyon Park and Ashton Heights, the Turkey Trot seemed more like the Gobble Hobble. But I finished.

The most amazing thing? You've never seen a happier group of people who are simultaneously sweaty and freezing. A cheer went up at the start and a big crowd hung out long after the finish. People came out to cheer us all along the parade route, with a puppy escaping its owners at one point and weaving through the runners like Barry Sanders in the open field. There was even a house on Fillmore Street handing out cups of beer to the runners, good for a laugh in the race's last mile.

I was up at 6am to help get runners registered with a group from CRM. Combined with the 4,000 calories worth of food I'll be consuming and 9 hours of football, Vegas has set the line of when I pass out on my couch at 8pm. Bet the under.

Staying in Town for Thanksgiving?

2008-11-24T20:04:00.003Z

The Green Miles' family is based mostly in Massachusetts, and it didn't take very long into my time living in Arlington to realize that no matter if I drove, flew, or took the train, making the schlep north twice in a month - for both Thanksgiving and Christmas - made the holidays much less enjoyable.

This year I'm staying in town for Thanksgiving and heading to Massachusetts for Christmas. When I tell people I'm staying home for Thanksgiving, people usually look at me like I'm a lonely shut-in. A young professional recently wrote a Washington Post column portraying herself as some kind of pioneer for daring to spend her holiday in DC.

But the holidays in Arlington are among the most fun times of the year. Of course, Christmas brings lots of holiday lights and greatly reduced traffic. But a lesser-known fact is that the night before Thanksgiving is a huge party night -- anyone who's young, single, and staying in Arlington for Turkey Day will be found out in Clarendon, Shirlington, or Pentagon Row on Wednesday night.

My Wednesday night will end early this year as I'm waking up before dawn on Thanksgiving Day, volunteering to help with registration at the Arlington Turkey Trot. I'll then be running the 5K race through Lyon Park and Ashton Heights.

And of course, the 350 calories I burn while running the 5K will balance out the 3,000 calories I consume watching football ... right? OK, maybe not.

Thank You!

2008-11-17T20:49:00.005Z

Just wanted to make a big shout out to all of the volunteers who came out in the rain on Saturday to clean up the yards at 5 houses for people with disabilities. You guys did a fabulous job despite less than ideal conditions.

For those of you who didn't participate, check out our upcoming volunteer events - we have at least 3 more coming up in 2008!

Monthly Meetup at Old Arlington Grill

2008-11-10T20:32:00.003Z

Biggest Meetup of 2008 to get ready for the biggest Volunteer Project of 2008!

Arlington Community Role Models - new name soon to be announced - is hosting their monthly happy hour for community minded 20 and 30 somethings in the Arlington area tomorrow night at the Old Arlington Grill (connected to Arlington Cinema and Drafthouse).

The fun starts at 7 pm and with over 30 people already RSVP'd it should be a good time.

We will have a couple of guests - one from Cherrydale Health and Rehabilitation as well as one from Community Residences.

We will also have sign ups for upcoming activities like Saturday's Community Residences Cleanup; the Turkey Trot 5K; Pictures with Santa and Elves; and the OAR Wrapping Party.

Look forward to seeing you there!

Short Lines and Free Food - NO EXCUSES!

2008-11-04T21:03:00.004Z

If you haven't voted yet... do it! Now's a great time, the lines are quite short at most polling places.

And as you've probably heard there are multiple places around the area giving out free food (most will give it to you whether you produce an I voted sticker or not because of legal issues).

Here's some highlights:
Starbucks - free coffee
Daily Grill - (Tyson's and DC)
Ben and Jerry's - (Fairfax Corner Shopping Center - off 66)
California Tortilla - free taco - Courthouse Plaza, Fair Lakes, Oakton...

Get more information here from WTOP
or HERE from Going Out Gurus Blog

Report from the Poll at Arlington Central Library

2008-11-04T13:12:00.009Z

The Green Miles is working the polls for Arlington Democrats this morning! I'm manning a relatively quiet spot so I thought I'd post these pictures.

The line is gradually getting a bit shorter now (at 8:15am), but at 7:30 this morning, here's what the wait looked like.

The line snaked out the Central Library auditorium, through the back door, down the back steps ...

Past the tennis courts, around the corner ...

Through the parking lot past the baseball diamond ...

And halfway down the block towards Washington Boulevard ...

At times this morning, the line has been up to two hours long. But I haven't heard a single complaint.

Cushiest job of the day -- election monitor. Really? You're worried about voter fraud here? Come on. This is Arlington. We get it done.

Which Party Are You (..going to..)?

2008-11-03T14:53:00.006Z

So we know that young people in Arlington generally love politics and love an excuse for a party... so tomorrow night should be huge!

Here's a small sampling of how some people will be partying:
The Arlington Young Dems, Arlington County Democratic Party, and the Joint Campaign are teaming up for one big shindig at Baileys in Ballston. Party starts at 7 pm.

The Arlington GOP will be watching the results come in at Mister Days in Clarendon.

NOVA & DC Urban League Young Professionals are at Bistro Bistro in Shirlington starting at 6 pm.

And then from the Going Out Gurus blog...
Busboys and Poets is hosting an election night party which will be heavy on the Democrat side.
They will apparently have "14 political cocktails on the menu, including the "Delaware Dude" for Joe Biden and the "Todd-Todd Palin" for the first dude of Alaska."

Arlington Cinema & Drafthouse will be showing election returns on the big screen. 20 beers on tap and who knows who will show up!

Let us know if you hear of other Election Night Parties in Arlington.

Scratch That. Long Lines For Early Voting, Too.

2008-10-30T20:54:00.007Z

On Tuesday, I said that you could avoid long lines by voting early.

The lesson for What's Up Arlington readers -- never listen to me.

I just tried to vote in-person absentee (4:45pm on Thursday), but watched the line wind past the "30 minutes wait to vote from this point" sign, around the "45 minutes" sign, and beyond the "60 minutes" sign. I gave up and headed to King Street Blues for a Sam Adams Oktoberfest and some BBQ chicken sliders (wicked awesome).

Luckily, my job allows me some flexibility to come in late/leave early to vote, so I can vote on Tuesday. But if you need to vote in-person absentee, give yourself plenty of time and bring your iPod or a book! And for all the details on voting, early or otherwise, check out the Arlington County Election 2008 Survival Guide.

UPDATE: A friend told me that at 6pm, the line was over two hours long.

UPDATE 10/31 at 5:15pm: An Arlington Young Democrat who's waiting in line right now just texted me to say the line has now hit THREE HOURS long.

UPDATE 11/1: Five hours on Saturday.

Avoid Election Day Lines, Vote In-Person Absentee

2008-10-28T11:55:00.002Z

Back in 2004, if you got to vote in Arlington on Election Day without having to wait in line for at least half an hour, you were one of the lucky ones. The Green Miles was lucky enough to be at the relatively quiet Lyon Park polling place, but friends in the Rosslyn-Ballston corridor who tried to vote either first thing in the morning or after work who waited well over an hour.

The long lines put voters between a rock and a hard place. If you go in the morning and the line is out the door and around the block, do you tell your boss you'll be late? If it's in the evening, do you cancel your evening plans to shiver in line?

Fortunately, you don't have to choose. Arlington County is offering in-person absentee voting at 2100 Clarendon Blvd with extended hours on Thursday and Saturday. You can get all the details in the voter registration office's Arlington County Election 2008 Survival Guide.

I've heard lines can be long on Saturdays as well, but Arlington Young Democrats are hoping to encourage Thursday evening absentee voting with a happy hour this Thursday (Oct. 30) from 5-8pm at King Street Blues in Courthouse. Get voting out of the way early, then enjoy some free appetizers -- sounds like a pretty good deal. (For the record, there are no similar events listed on the Arlington-Falls Church Young Republicans website.)

Reflections on Diversity

2008-10-27T13:24:00.004Z

Thanks to all of the CRMers and everyone that turned out at Sunday's Diversity Dialogues. We had a great crowd and generated some lively discussion of issues that really matter to Arlingtonians.

Kojo kicked things off and his pointed questions and willingness to bring up potentially divisive issues really helped the dialogue get to a deeper level. This last dialogue was much better than the first one in my opinion.

Here's an example - at the first one everyone wanted to talk about the importance of diversity, the efforts they made to be diverse and pat everyone else on the back. At this one, a white woman in my group started out that way. She explained that she had moved her children to a more diverse school, had made significant efforts to meet people from different cultures and was basically trying real hard to be open minded and inclusive.
... But then she opened up and admitted to us that when she was bike commuting once, she was locking up her bike and a black man approached her and asked if he could ask her a question. She was startled and afraid and told him to back off and that she was going to call security. He explained that he was security, he was just in between shifts (in casual clothes).
She of course apologized profusely and talked to him for awhile after that. He was not very fazed, saying that it had happened before.

That's the truth of the situation. Even with the best laid plans and intentions we still have underlying prejudices and sometimes crippling stereotypes.

I spent the rest of the dialogue asking people from all ethnicities how we can undo these prejudices since it is clear that our superficial efforts are not working.

Here are two observations / suggestions that were shared with me:
1. Tolerance is not acceptance. Tolerance is not enough because you are just allowing someone else to live their life even though you disagree with them or even hate them. We need to work to move beyond mere tolerance.
2. Prejudice thrives in ignorance. We will not be an inclusive community unless neighbors get to know neighbors. Introduce yourself, smile, invite someone over for a meal.

Not able to attend? Go to the Diversity Dialogues website for more information about the Task Force and ways to contribute your ideas.

Hoppin' Hallow's Eve

2008-10-25T08:00:00.000Z

Washington Post's city guide lists 6 Halloween events going on in Arlington. Not all of them are on Halloween itself ..
the first one starts tomorrow - the Zombie Prom at Galaxy Hut

What are you doing for Halloween??

How The Economic Crisis Affects Arlington

2008-10-25T06:00:00.000Z

So of course there's been lots of buzz about the economic crisis these days on the radio, tv, around the water cooler, and even in my sleep at this point.
What does it all mean for Arlington?

Well here's some of the good and the bad as I know it...

There are both good and bad reports coming in at Arlington County. In general the official word has been that there will be a 5% cut and that that will mostly be achieved through salary savings (not hiring new people/filling positions and encouraging early outs). In addition there will be some cutting back or elimination of non-mandated programs that were nice to haves rather than must haves.
County Manager Ron Carlee has been very firm about not doing a furlough and using staffing cuts or reductions as a last resort.
Basically, the impact will be limited in Arlington for the rest of this year. The true test will be the direction the economy takes and if more drastic measures will need to be taken in the future.

Business Week recently ran an article listing Arlington as their #1 city for weathering the recession based on our diversified economy with a heavy dose of government employees.

Well isn't that good news since I moved here to do just that!

That was the good news.
As far as the bad news...

Other local jurisdictions are not in nearly as good of shape. Loudoun is often mentioned as a nearby County with very serious economic woes. Fairfax is also feeling the mortgage crisis in a serious way since they have a larger portion of revenue from personal property tax. Montgomery County has planned a 2 Day furlough (according to presentation to MALGA on 10/16).
Everyone has hiring freezes in place...

Besides being concerned about our neighboring jurisdictions, what do harder economic times for our neighbors mean for us?

What are your concerns about the economic crisis? How does it affect young Arlingtonians?

Last Chance to Attend Diversity Dialogues

2008-10-24T06:00:00.002Z

This Sunday, Oct 26th from 1:30 -4:30 pm at Drew Model School is your last chance to participate in the Diversity Dialogues. Did I mention Kojo Nnamdi, host of WAMU 88.5's The Kojo Nnamdi Show, will deliver opening remarks?!

I don't know what else to tell you... meet lots of interesting people, make your voice heard to County Board, School Board, and other local leaders; eat some free munchies; expand your knowledge of who lives in Arlington and what's on their mind. This is a good thing to participate in and this is your last chance!

Afterwards, take in the Village at Shirlington with some ice cream from Maggie Moo's or a beer at Cap City.

Ways to get there?
Take the W&OD trail to its end at Shirlington Rd.
Drive (but be prepared to get there early since a huge turnout is expected!)
I believe the closest bus comes from Pentagon City metro and is the Art 82 Route

Did You Go to ATS?

2008-10-23T05:00:00.001Z

I have to confess this event didn't interest me very much at first. But then I remembered how much fun I've had recently connecting with old friends from elementary school on Facebook.

And, I thought, if just 1 person reads the blog, goes to this event, and re-connects with someone from elementary school, it will be worth it.

So, if you went to Arlington Traditional School (ATS) and would like to help celebrate the 30th anniversary and perhaps connect with old friends, check this out ...

COUNTYWIDE INVITATION TO JOIN
ARLINGTON TRADITIONAL SCHOOL IN CELEBRATING
30 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE AS A COUNTYWIDE SCHOOL

A countywide tradition since 1978, Arlington Traditional School (ATS) will celebrate its 30th anniversary at the school, 855 North Edison Street, from 2:00-4:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 2.

The celebration is open to ATS alums (1978-2008) and Arlingtonians of all ages. The event is free of charge.

Mingle with past and present ATS students, ATS families, and community leaders
Join ATS kids by participating in a school-wide community service fair
Walk through three decades of ATS history – come dressed in the style of your favorite ATS decade from the 70s to today
Enjoy seasonal refreshments

Guests are invited to bring donations of sample-sized toiletries, blankets, canned and boxed foods, and old towels for community service fair projects, benefiting Arlington-based national and international charitable organizations.

Visit http://www.atspta.org/ for more on Arlington Traditional School and specifics on the 30th anniversary celebration

Tonight: ACE's "Hallowgreen" 30th Anniversary Gala

2008-10-23T03:29:00.000Z

The Green Miles will be heading to the Hilton Arlington in Ballston tonight for Hallowgreen! It's the 30th anniversary gala for Arlingtonians for a Clean Environment.

Here are some of the highlights:

Program highlighting ACE’s 30 years

Live music by The Walkaways

Costume contest with cash prizes for:

Best Environmental Costume

Best Costume from Reused Materials

Best Student Costume

Eco-Horror displays

Silent auction

Stewardship awards

Cash bar

Refreshments (highlighting local and organic produce) catered by the Hilton Arlington

I'll be entering the "best environmental costume" contest but expect to be beaten soundly by someone much more creative than me. And if you're thinking about outbidding me for the autographed copy of An Inconvenient Truth, you'd better bring your checkbook.

Tickets will be available at the door:

- Single: $75
- Couple: $140
- Students (under 21): $10
- VIP: Single: $175 / Couple: $300

Steep by WUA standards I know, but at least they're practically giving away student tickets.

A major shout out to the sponsors of Hallowgreen: The Nature Conservancy, The Hilton Arlington, Ecoprint, Arbour Realty, The Cadmus Group, and Wild Birds Unlimited.

As much credit as the sponsors deserve, it's kind of surprising to see some big green businesses missing from that list. Where's EnviroCAB (EDIT: Envirocab was not a major sponsor but donated lots of gift certificates)? Where are those Fresh AIRE business champions?

Cross-posted from The Green Miles

Duke Dog Hits Happy Hour in Ballston... again

2008-10-20T12:59:00.004Z

Are you a JMU Alum? Or a friend / family / life partner of one? Then come join the MetroDukes and Duke Club for a happy hour tonight at Rock Bottom Brewery in the Ballston mall.

This is the third such Monthly "Madison Monday" and the first two were great hits with large attendance, drink specials, door prizes, and the latest news from JMU.

With Homecoming coming up on Halloween weekend, now is a good time to build up that JMU spirit and reconnect with some of your old friends or make new ones!

Live Music in Arlington

2008-10-15T04:00:00.000Z

You know, Arlington has some great places to see live music. And I think, Iota comes in near the top, if not the top.

So, I don't generally promote specific shows, but this band sent me some stuff and it sounds good, so I thought I'd pass it on. I think I'll try to check them out myself. No guarantees, but it sounds like a good show to me.

Show details:

Shane Hines and the Trancewith Fools and Horses

Saturday, Oct 18

IOTA Club and Cafe 9:30 PM

$11

21 and up

www.myspace.com/shanehines

Car Free! Finally...

2008-10-14T12:46:00.003Z

Well it's done, I have moved to Falls Church, 1 mile from the East Falls Church metro and leaps and bounds closer to my work in Clarendon.

I celebrated this morning by biking to the metro. What a fabulous Fall day for it! There were beautiful red and orange leaves along my route, the temperature was perfect, and the traffic along the bike route was minimal. I can't wait to bike my entire commute!

The downside this morning was that I got lost. I got lost because to get from my house to the metro I have to bike through 3 different jurisdictions and each jurisdiction has their own bike map! Also I must say the Arlington County's bike map (from their Car Free diet series) is much better than the Fairfax County bike map (available at government buildings). It shows bike shops along your route, public restrooms, and dangerous intersections. I don't feel like I can trust the Fairfax County bike map because it shows Prosperity Rd as a "Preferred" road to bike on. I have never seen anyone bike on that road .. and for good reason! It is narrow, windy, steep, with no shoulders, and cars are always crossing the lines around curves and driving way too fast.

For interesting information on bike commuting, I like to read the CommuterPageBlog.

So anyways, if you see me rolling around in the bike pictured here please give me lots of room and be friendly =) I'm not by any means a hardened bike commuter yet and I could use some good will!

Half Price Tickets for Arena Stage

2008-10-14T05:00:00.000Z

Half price tickets to Arena Stage! You can't beat that.

I love Arena - isn't it cool that it's in Arlington for a bit.

This show sounds great too ...

Josh: The Quixotic Adventures of an UnlikelyActivist. A show about grassroots activism, politics, plus it's funny. Sounds great to me!

Special offer for readers of this blog. Did I mention half-price tickets?

To get your half-price tickets, enter code JOSH50 via online ticket purchasing.

Economic Downturn Forces County Budget Cuts

2008-10-13T12:36:00.000Z

With the financial crisis showing no signs of easing, Arlington County has just released the details of a round of budget tightening:

Arlington County Institutes Hiring Freeze, Spending Reductions

Addresses $10 million budget gap in FY 2009 and projected FY 2010 gap

Arlington, VA --- Arlington County Manager Ron Carlee announced today an immediate hiring freeze and other spending reductions – the first steps to addressing what is projected to be a $10 million gap in the FY 2009 budget. This $10 million gap represents 1.6% of the general County government operations budget.

In addition, the shortfall for the Arlington Public Schools, which receives most of its funding from the County, is currently projected to be $7.5 million in FY 2009.

In a memo to County employees, Carlee explained, “As the nation’s economy faces some very dramatic challenges, we have conducted a thorough review of the County’s budget, paying close attention to the needs of our residents. While Arlington is much better positioned than many local governments in the region, we are not immune to the economic downturn.”

The memo orders:

An immediate hiring freeze.
Elimination of discretionary spending, the details of which will be released over the next two weeks. Meanwhile, Carlee asked staff to question every expenditure.
A detailed review of every service to determine what is mandated, what is essential to the community and what is discretionary.
Examination of alternative ways to provide services at lower cost through consolidation, partnership, or contracting.

In his memo, Carlee noted that the County is required by law to maintain a balanced budget and said “[s]ome programs and service levels valued by the community will not be affordable in these times of retrenchment.” Early analysis indicates continued revenue shortfalls for FY 2010.

Carlee will provide a public briefing on Arlington’s fiscal condition during the October 22 Recessed County Board Meeting. The County Board will adopt FY 2010 budget guidelines at its November meeting. In December and January, Carlee will provide financial updates, and will present his Recommended Budget at the February County Board meeting.

I Think I'll Park Riiiiiiight ...

2008-10-10T23:50:00.002Z

Here:

Yes, the middle of the sidewalk on Wilson Boulevard will do just fine.

Arlington Takes Part in Walk and Bike to School Day

2008-10-07T19:28:00.002Z

Just saw this post on a great new blog:

Arlington will celebrate International Walk and Bike to School Day on Wednesday, October 8 this year. Throughout the entire month of October, many APS staff and PTAs will incorporate activities focusing on biking and walking into Arlington Public School curriculum.

Abingdon Elementary will be highlighted in 2008 in recognition of the school’s demonstrated commitment to walking as part of a healthy lifestyle.

County, APS officials, members of the media and other guests including RANGER RICK of the National Wildlife Federation will join Abingdon students and parents as they walk and bike their way to school together on October 8.

Get more details over at the Arlington Kids blog!

CRM's Back At King St Blues Tuesday

2008-10-06T17:21:00.005Z

CRM is a fun group of young people (20 and 30's) who are community-minded and like to both get out and volunteer as well as socialize.

This month's "monthly meetup" (happy hour) will be held tomorrow, Tuesday, October 7th, from 7-9 p.m. at King Street Blues in Courthouse. CRMers will be in the back bar (look for us wearing the green CRM t-shirts and if you have one, please wear it! King Street Blues is located at 2300 Arlington Blvd, Arlington, VA right outside of the Courthouse Metro Stop on the Orange line.

Because October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, our special guest will be Candice Lopez, the Community Education Outreach Manager at Doorways for Women and Families and the Co-Chair of Arlington's Project PEACE. She will be there to discuss what these two organizations are doing to address domestic violence in our community and she will have information on volunteer opportunities.

We will also have a representative from Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN) to speak with those interested in energy policy and global warming. CCAN is the first grassroots non-profit to fight global warming specifically in Maryland, DC and Virginia. They will talk about how they plan to get Virginia moving toward a clean energy future and what the 1Sky platform means (for the country and specifically Virginia).

Everyone is welcome! Hope to see you there!

Artistic Fundraiser for Tenant's Rights

2008-10-06T05:00:00.000Z

OK, so this is a little pricey. But hey, it sounds like fun, and it's a fundraiser. So if tenant's rights is a cause you would like to give to, this sounds like a fun event.

Home is Where the Art Is

A Fundraiser for BRAVO, a tenants’ rights and advocacy organization

When: Sunday, October 19, 2008

Where: Arlington Arts Center
3550 Wilson Boulevard
6:30 -8:30pm

Price: $65.00 in advance
Call 703-685-5100 or email: info@bravotenants.org

What: An Artistic Fundraiser emphasizing the importance of home. The evening will be a fabulous feast for the senses! Attendees will taste delectable desserts served by the Arlington Catering Company, and be entertained by the lively and talented musicians of Arlington’s own Alcova Ensemble. A silent auction will also be held that evening; come view and bid on handcrafted works of art, and items or services to beautify the home – all to benefit the critical programs that BRAVO provides.

I'm Just Sayin'

2008-10-04T14:48:00.006Z

Friday, October 3rd, 1:52pm: What's Up Arlington publishes "Breaking News: VA ABC Sticks Nose Into Shirlington's Oktoberfest"

Friday, October 3rd, 4:18pm: WashingtonPost.com's Going Out Gurus publish "Breaking News: Oktoberfest Crackdown"

I can only quote Chuckie from Good Will Hunting: You're suspect. Ya you.

And I'm not the only one who thinks so. Ask Josh Marshall.

Note -- the time on the footer of this blog is adjusted to Greenwich Mean Time to synch up with blog aggregators like DCblogs.com. If you don't believe me, check the time I posted the WUA link to my Facebook profile.

Breaking News: VA ABC Sticks Nose Into Shirlington's Oktoberfest

2008-10-03T17:52:00.003Z

Thanks to commenter Joshua for the heads up on this. I just called over to Capitol City Brewing in Shirlington, which confirmed the Virginia Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) has suddenly placed new restrictions on Saturday's Oktoberfest.

In past years, a $25 admission would get you unlimited tastes of beer through the whole event. Cap City tells me they've been having the event for years and Arlington Police have never complained about it. But this year, the ABC has suddenly decreed that Oktoberfest can only give 10 taste tickets with admission and not sell any additional taste tickets above and beyond that.

To make sure customers get a good value even with the restrictions, Cap City is cutting the cost to $20 and offering $2 pints all day inside the restaurant.

Anyone who's been knows that Oktoberfest is one of Arlington's best events of the year. These restrictions will certainly keep it from being the all-day funfest it usually is, but it's definitely still worth checking out. It's where I discovered some of my favorite breweries, including Wolaver, Maredsous, and Shenandoah Brewing.

Now, about the ABC ... can anyone tell me what this agency does that a liquor tax and additional funding for local enforcement efforts couldn't? For all conservatives like to talk about the nanny state, why aren't they railing against this dinosaur limping along from the Commonwealth's teetotalling days? And if the ABC really wants to limit drinking, why can I walk into any ABC store and buy enough vodka to fill my bathtub?

Army 10-Miler Road Closures

2008-10-03T17:24:00.001Z

Just got this from ArlingtonAlert.com:

The Arlington County Police Department will close several streets near the Pentagon on Sunday, October 5, for the 24th Annual Army 10-Miler race. The race begins at 8 a.m. on Washington Boulevard, crosses the Potomac River into the District of Columbia, and ends in the Pentagon South Parking Lot.

The following roads in Arlington will be affected:

*Washington Boulevard (Route 27), between I-395 and Memorial Bridge, will be closed in both directions at 5:30 a.m.
*Columbia Pike, east of Joyce Street will be closed at 5:30 a.m.
*I-395 HOV southbound lanes will be closed at 5:30 a.m.
*S. Eads Street, from Army Navy Drive into the Pentagon/Northbound I-395 HOV lanes, will be closed at 4:30 a.m.

All of the roads should be reopened by noon.

In addition, access to the Pentagon Reservation will be restricted to “Authorized Vehicles Only” from 4:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Pentagon Employees must park at the North Parking Lots using the Boundary Channel Drive access points.

Runners, spectators and support personnel are encouraged to use Metro. The Pentagon and Pentagon City stations on the Blue and Yellow Lines are located within walking distance of the start and finish lines, and Metro will run extra service for the race. From 6 a.m. until the race begins, Blue Line trains will operate at 7.5 minute intervals, instead of every 15 minutes. The supplemental service will resume at the conclusion of the race, from approximately 11:15 a.m. to about 12:40 p.m.

For more information about the Army 10-Miler please visit the official website at www.armytenmiler.com.

How I Know Fall is Here

2008-10-02T17:34:00.001Z

Some people know fall is here when the leaves change colors.

I know fall is here when it's too cold for Carpool to have the garage doors open:

Carpool's fun in the summer when there's a nice breeze blowing. But when the doors come down, it's a little too smoky to be enjoyable.

Oh well. I'm off to my walking-distance bar scene winter retreat -- the smoke-free places in Clarendon.

A Vice Happy Hour Debate

2008-10-02T15:30:00.000Z

NEW - the Washington Post City Guide just published another guide for the upcoming debates tonight and next Tuesday.
I have cut and pasted the Arlington relevant information here. See entire post here.

Here is a guide to Debate watching events in Arlington:

"Bars
Busboys and Poets

All three locations of Busboys and Poets (14th Street, Shirlington and the new City Vista at 5th and K) are hosting watch parties with full sound. Ask about the special drinks created specifically for the occasion, like the "Obama" and the "Biden." U Street and Shirlington will have the debate on 10-foot projection screens, while City Vista will have it on all five TVs.

Summers Grill and Sports Pub
The "Non-Partisan Debate Watching Party" -- hosted by a McCain supporter and self-proclaimed Reagan Democrat -- splits Summers into two sides, with the Republicans in one room watching the event on Fox News and the Democrats on the other viewing CNN. Of course, the fun happens when seats are filled up and the Republicans have to squeeze into the Democrat side and vice versa. Attendees are requested to arrive by 7:30 to secure seats. One thing everyone can agree on: The restaurant will be non-smoking for the night.

Thursday's Partisan Parties
Bailey's Pub and Grille (Ballston)
The official (and smoke-free) gathering place for Arlington Democrats will play the debate on multiple TVs and feature games like buzzword bingo. Admission is free for members and $10 for everyone else, and that price includes one drink. Doors open at 8.

Bailey's Pub and Grille (Crystal City)
Bailey's Pub and Grille seems to be the fault line of Arlington politics. While the Democrats will be at Bailey's in Ballston, the Alexandria, Arlington and Falls Church Young Republican groups will be gathered in the back room of the Crystal City sports bar. An RSVP is requested to join the Republican event; admission is free and doors open for happy hour at 8.

Guarapo
The Latinas for Biden party in Guarapo's upstairs lounge kicks off with "music and mingling" from 7 to 9, and offers special drinks (including "shots of hope" and "shots of change") during the debate. Ladies receive gifts like lipstick, MAC cosmetics and hair products, though the event is open to everyone. There's a suggested donation of $25.

Tuesday's Partisan Parties
Bailey's Pub and Grille (Ballston)
Arlington Democrats are back for the presidential debate, with games in hand. Admission is free for members and $10 for everyone else, and that price includes one drink.

Some follow up from the Happy Hour Debate post...
Melanie let us know:
"Everyone who made it to the Arlington Dems party at Bailey's in Ballston knew they were at THE debate watch party in Arlington on Friday - and we'll be doing it again on Thursday, October 2 for the VP debate. Another perk besides the Obama-Biden friendly crowd? The debate watch parties are SMOKE-FREE events.

Check out all the details here or find us on Facebook and my.barackobama.com"

Know of a VP Debate watching event in Arlington (with or without a party affiliation)? Let us know!

Want to Coach?

2008-10-02T05:00:00.000Z

So I'm a big sports junkie. I love playing, and I love coaching.

If you are like me, and looking for a great way to give back to the community, how about coaching youth basketball?

Arlington Parks & Recreation is in need of basketball coaches for its upcoming season. It's not a huge time committment (2 practices a week until December/January, then 1 practice and 1 game), and it's a lot of fun and a great way to give back?

Interested? You can register to coach online here

Looking for more info on the program? Read all about it here.

Questions? Contact Marta Cahill at mcahill@arlingtonva.us

A Toast to Ballston (Updated)

2008-10-01T05:00:00.004Z

Good food. Good cause. What could be better?

A TOAST TO BALLSTON-VIRGINIA SQUARE
“A Celebration of Good Food in a Great Place”

Monday, October 20, 2008
From 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

ü Featuring delicious samples of fine cuisine from. Ballston and Virginia Square’s leading restaurants, paired with

ü Premium wines, handcrafted beers and spirits

ü Honorary Chair: J.C. Hayward, dvmOurTime

ü Admission only $65. Proceeds benefit the Arlington Food Assistance Center, feeding our neighbors in need, and the Ballston-Virginia Square Partnership

“Take a Bite Out of Hunger”

At

Arlington Arts Center
3550 Wilson Boulevard
Arlington, VA 22201

Admission Includes:

Tapas-style portions of fine cuisines from premier restaurants in Ballston and Virginia Square - against a backdrop of the fascinating Fall Solos exhibition in the galleries of the Arlington Arts Center. Live music by Strolling Strings.
Premium wines, handcrafted beers and spirits
A souvenir wine glass
A donation to two great local organizations!

For more information and tickets,
visit http://www.ballstonvasquare.org/

Read a Banned Book

2008-09-30T06:32:00.001Z

Arlington Public Libraries are observing Banned Books Week:

"Banned Books Week: Celebrating the Freedom to Read" is observed during the last week of September each year. Observed since 1982, this annual ALA event reminds Americans not to take this precious democratic freedom for granted. This year, 2008, marks BBW's 27th anniversary (September 27 through October 4).

You can also check out the most challenged books of the 21st century (PDF). My favorite: Captain Underpants. I can just imagine the outraged parent now. "There is no bigger threat to our children than Captain Underpants!"

Walk the Crop

2008-09-29T05:00:00.000Z

Looking for a good cause? Check this out"

CROP Walk
“Neighbors walking together to take a stand
against hunger in our world.”

Saturday, October 18, 2008
Walk starts at 8 a.m.

Come support hunger relief internationally and here in Arlington!

25% of funds raised go directly to the Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC)

Last year AFAC received over $10,000 from the proceeds

Register online at http://www.cropwalk.org/

E-walking is encouraged this year. Thanks to the wonders of the worldwide web, every Walker can create a personalized web page seeking donations or sign up with others as a team, e-mail requests for sponsorships to friends and family anywhere, as well as receive credit card contributions for their CROP Walk at the secure website, http://www.cropwalk.org/.

Want to get involved more? Check out the facebook group at
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=37035498627

Mildred Muhammad Speaks Out

2008-09-26T06:00:00.006Z

Last night, a few members of Community Role Models (CRM), including myself went to the Kick Off Event for Project Peace.

Mildred Muhammad, the former wife of the DC Sniper was the featured speaker and had a chilling and fascinating story to tell. Before we knew her former husband, John as the DC Sniper she knew him as a controlling and manipulative man who stole her children from her and threatened to kill her after she filed for divorce. Not the stereotype of a victim, Mrs. Muhammad did not have any physical scars and remained very in control and confident on the outside. Service providers often didn't believe her and no one was able to help her as she ran for her life.

Muhammad was an impressive speaker and inspiring in the way that she fought for her survival, persisted in the pursuit of justice, and is now using her experience to help victims of domestic violence.

For an article and video coverage on last night's event from Fox 5 click here.
For a better article about Mildred Muhammad from the Washington post click here.

What Fox 5 fails to mention is that the whole point of her appearance was to kick off Arlington's, Project Peace. A new Hotline: 703-24PEACE has been launched and there are several events coming up to raise awareness including:

Clothesline Project at Thomas Jefferson Community Center, Central Library, and Fairlington Community Center

October 16th Candlelight Vigil at Ft Myer (703)696-3512

CRM's next Meetup will be October 7th from 7-9 pm at King St Blues in Courthouse Plaza and we will have a guest from the Red Flag Campaign to speak about domestic violence awareness. Hope you can join us.

A Happy Hour Debate

2008-09-26T04:00:00.000Z

I have cut and pasted the Arlington relevant information from Washington Post City Guide's Going Out Gurus Blog. See entire post here.

Here is a guide to Debate watching events in Arlington

"Parties That Lean Right
Bailey's Pub and Grille (Crystal City)
Bailey's Pub and Grille seems to be the fault line of Arlington politics. The local branch of the Young Republicans will be gathered in the back room of the Crystal City sports bar, while the Democrats will be at its sister bar in Ballston. (More on that below.) An RSVP is requested to join the Republican event; admission is free and doors open at 7:30.

Parties That Lean Left
Bailey's Pub and Grille (Ballston)

The official gathering place for Arlington Democrats will play the debate on multiple TVs and feature games like buzzword bingo. Admission is free for members and $10 for everyone else, and that price includes one drink.

Busboys and Poets
All three locations of Busboys and Poets (14th Street, Shirlington and the new City Vista at 5th and K) are hosting watch parties with full sound. Ask about the special drinks created specifically for the occasion, like the "Obama" and the "Biden." U Street and Shirlington will have the debate on 10-foot projection screens, while City Vista will have it on all five TVs.

Nonpartisan Events
Cap City Brewing Company
All three Capitol City Brewing Company locations will be showing the debates, and it's no coincidence that the brewery just unveiled its new Election Ale, a light, crisp beer with a touch of hops. (On Nov. 5, Election Ale will be reformulated as InaugurAle with one additional ingredient: honey from the winning candidate's home state.) Expect the Cap City at Postal Square to be the most popular, as it's within spitting distance of the Capitol."

Let us know if you hear of any others!

A Dialogue Was Had By All

2008-09-25T13:09:00.003Z

Last night, I attended the Diversity Dialogue at Central Library. There was a huge turnout, resulting in extra tables and chairs being brought in and some difficulty in hearing the other people at your table. Great to see so many people care about connecting on this issue.

Being new to Arlington, I found it a good chance to meet a lot of different Arlington leaders and residents. There were 4 County Board members there (Chairman Tejada, Barbara Favola, Chris Zimmerman, and Mary Hynes) as well as 1-2 School Board members.

As far as the conversations that I participated in (you sat at 3 different tables during the evening and answered 3 different questions), I felt that they lacked depth. Most of the people in attendance were there because they were passionate about diversity and meeting people from different cultures and backgrounds. In other words, there was some preaching to the choir going on. I really enjoyed the chance to meet all of these different people, but I don't know how much was accomplished as far as generating ideas for how to improve Arlington's diversity and inclusion of all persons. Other tables seemed to generate some concrete examples of what the County could do and all of our ideas were recorded on a big mural that will be added to as the project continues.

Good News - there are 2 more chances for YOU to participate and add a different perspective, spark some debate and make this effort as productive as possible.

The next one is Thursday, October 16th at Barrett Elementary School.
Sign up today!! (you need to register ahead of time so they can plan how many tables and facilitators they need)

I'll Miss You, Giant Hole

2008-09-23T11:38:00.003Z

Ever since I moved to Arlington, there's been a giant hole in Courthouse at the corner of Clarendon and N. Adams. It's the site of a project waiting to be built since ... are you ready for this? 1984.

But at long last, a structure is rising from the hole:

The Washington Business Journal has the details:

The Donohoe Cos. started construction Sept. 19 on a 140,000-square-foot, 176-room Marriott Residence Inn on Clarendon Boulevard near the Court House Metro station. The $40 million hotel will open in spring 2009, some 23 years after it was originally envisioned and one year later than the current developers were hoping for.

"It has maybe taken longer than it typically does," said Bob Donohoe, development director for The Donohoe Cos. "But we feel like we've got the best project we could have."

"Maybe taken longer than it typically does"? Talk about the understatement of the year.

Anyway, the project should be a big boost for a block that's been pretty unremarkable until the recent addition of King Street Blues.

Car Free?

2008-09-23T11:30:00.000Z

So, did you go car free or car lite yesterday?

Looks like theGreenMiles did: "I'll be Metroing from Ballston to West Falls Church, then taking the 952 bus out to the office in Reston. Takes a bit longer, but saves on gas, lets me catch up on reading, and keeps me from having to battle traffic on I66!"

And our fellow blogger Eric did: "I took the Metro to Pentagon, then the 22A bus to Shirlington - takes a little bit longer than driving, but is so much more relaxing (and cheaper!)"

As for myself, I chickened out on biking to the metro. Confession: although I work in Arlington I've been living way out in Fairfax. It is way too easy to make excuses and drive in Fairfax.

So what am I doing to reduce my carbon footprint? I'm moving closer to work! In a few weeks I will be living in Falls Church near the East Falls Church metro (and near bus lines and bike trails). No more excuses. I can't wait to bike, walk, and metro all around Arlington and Falls Church.

And now I've found out that I can keep up the biking at work with our new fleet of trikes!

Share your reasons or plans for going car free or car lite...

World Car-Free Day on Monday

2008-09-19T04:00:00.002Z

In my last town I got most places by bike. It was a small town so nothing was very far away and there were bike lanes and general acceptance of the biking and walking public.

Moving to the city I've discovered that getting from Point A to Point B is much more frustrating but my options are far more expansive: biking, driving, metro, multiple types of buses, slugging, carpooling, zip car, Envirocab, etc.

I challenge you to use World Car-Free Day as an opportunity to try a new way of getting around that does not involve a car.

WalkArlington is promoting Car-Free Day with a walk in Clarendon from on Monday September 22nd.

The walk will be made more interesting with speakers sharing anecdotes about Clarendon's history, cultural resources, gathering places, and car-free lifestyle. 6:30-7:30 p.m

Not only that, but "in conjunction with Arlington County Commuter Services' Car-Free Diet campaign and the Clarendon Alliance, Clarendon's many restaurants and shops will be offering World Car-Free Day discounts and promotions."

A New Production from The Arlington Players

2008-09-18T15:26:00.000Z

Just got a heads up from The Arlington Players that this show is opening on Friday (Sept. 19):

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum
Book by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart
Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
The Arlington Players
Thomas Jefferson Community Center
3501 2nd Street S.
Arlington, VA, 22204

"Something familiar, something peculiar, something for everyone: a comedy tonight!" This uproarious farce tells the story of a slave named Pseudolus and his attempts to win his freedom by helping his young master, Hero, earn the love of a courtesan, Philia. All Pseudolus needs to do is outsmart Hero’s parents, Marcus Lycus, the dealer who owns Philia, and the swaggering soldier Miles Gloriosus, to whom Philia has been promised. Inspired by the works of the ancient Roman playwright Plautus, this broad, bawdy, and fast-paced comedy has won multiple Tony awards over the years and is considered one of the all-time great classic musical comedies!

It's scheduled to run through Oct. 4th. If you go, let us know how it was!

Has Arlington Reached a Smoke-Free Tipping Point?

2008-09-17T14:18:00.001Z

When Clarendon Grill decided to go smoke-free, they didn't mess around. Not only is there a ginormous "NO SMOKING" sign right on the front door, there are those white fliers plastered all over the windows:

Just this year, we've seen three types of places go smoke-free that cynics claimed never would never flip voluntarily:

A sports bar (Thirsty Bernie's)
A brew pub (Cap City)
And a music venue (Clarendon Grill)

Now that in Clarendon alone, Clarendon Grill, Eleventh, Clarendon Ballroom, Liberty Tavern and others are all smoke-free, do you think we'll see more of a chain reaction in that area? Who would you like to see go smoke-free next? (My vote: Whitlow's.)

For more smoke-free establishments, check out Arlington County's Smoke Free Restaurants guide.

UPDATE: Thanks to commenter JohnAlex, I called Whitlow's, who informed me that they're now mostly smoke-free. There's a small smoking section in the back (if you've been there, it's near the beach mural). OK, so I have to change my vote, I guess ... I know it's a stretch, but I'll go with Jay's. How great would it be to have a smoke-free dive bar? Close second would be for Tallula's EatBar to go 100% smoke-free, it'd be nice to hang out in that back lounge without smelling like an ashtray afterwards.

Diversity Dialogues

2008-09-17T05:00:00.001Z

Want to join a cool conversation about diversity in Arlington? Here are some great chances to join a dialog ...

Diversity Dialogue Dates:

Wednesday, September 24th 6:30-9:30 pm Arlington Central Library (1015 North Quincy Street, Arlington 22201)

Thursday, October 16th 6:30-9:30 pm Barrett Elementary School (4401 N. Henderson Road, Arlington 22203)

Sunday, October 26th 1:30-4:30 pm Drew Model School (3500 S. 23rd Street, Arlington 22206)

Please RSVP for the Diversity Dialogues (as space is limited). To learn more, go to the Diversity Dialogues Webpage.

Odd Coincidence or Brilliant Placement?

2008-09-13T23:49:00.001Z

Ever notice that the Cheesecake Factory is directly across from the Gold's Gym in Clarendon? Are they hoping people will leave Cheesecake Factory, feel guilty for having just consumed enough calories to make The Michael Phelps Diet seem sensible, and cross the street to join Gold's?

Duke Dog Hits Happy Hour in Ballston

2008-09-12T06:00:00.003Z

Do you bleed purple? Is Duke Dog your favorite mascot? Do you miss Dhall cookies?

Then you are probably a fabulous JMU Alum like myself and should show up next Monday for Happy Hour hosted by the MetroDukes at Caribbean Breeze in Ballston.

There will be drink specials and 1/2 price appetizers. You want games? They're going to break out cornhole/baggo boards and water pong (no beer in the cups per ABC laws). You want door prizes? $50 gift card and some other JMU treats will be given away as well! Hope to see you there!

Contact Matt Tremonte matt.tremonte@gmail.com with questions.

Today We Remember

2008-09-11T10:15:00.001Z

I was a senior at a northern Virginia highschool on 9/11 and feel as if my life and my generation was shaped that day. Having been in the Southwest for the last 2 years I have not felt this day as acutely. Today is a good day for remembrance and reflection.

Today in Arlington there are many ways to remember. Click here for information from Arlington County about what is going on.

Best wishes, my thoughts are with you.

Sept. 24: The Real Charlie Wilson

2008-09-10T08:54:00.001Z

Just got a postcard from Rep. Jim Moran's office announcing this event:

An Evening with Charlie Wilson:
A Conversation on U.S. Foreign Policy in Iraq, Afghanistan and the Middle East

Wednesday, September 24th, 2008
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Schlesinger Center
Northern Virginia Community College
3001 N. Beauregard Street
Alexandria, Virginia 22311

Featuring: Charlie Wilson, former Member of Congress whose real life story is
depicted in the hit movie Charlie Wilson’s War

I thought Charlie Wilson's War was kind of an odd movie, glamorizing Wilson's partying ways while only making vague references to one of the war's unintended consequences -- the rise of the Taliban and ultimately 9/11. Wilson's story is certainly more complicated than Hollywood can handle in a couple of hours.

If you go to the event, let us know how it was!

What's the next hot neighborhood?

2008-09-10T04:00:00.000Z

Washington Business Journal recently published an article titled "The hunt for the next hot spots" in which Richard Florida identifies trends in DC area development. He highlights Arlington as a place that 20 years ago no one would have predicted as a popular place for young professionals to want to live.

Ballston and Clarendon are highlighted as trendy urban neighborhoods that came as a surprise to demographers.

According to the article, 77% of Gen Y-ers (or Millennials) plan to live in an urban core. This is a dramatic departure from the suburban ideal that was embraced by our parents. Another interesting trend is the end of "White Flight" which had a major effect on housing trends of our parents generation. DC has seen an increase in the white population since 2000.

So what is the future hot spot? In Arlington, this article points to Shirlington and Columbia Pike as examples of areas that are benefiting from an increase in transit options and development.

What do you think?

Recycling Junkie?

2008-09-08T04:00:00.000Z

Do you work at a place that is big on recycling and reducing waste or know one that is?

The County just announced that they are giving awards to places that are committed to Reduce, Reuse, Recycle!

The fine print says that they have to be a FreshAire partner to apply for the award and so far there are only 13 FreshAire partners. Becoming a FreshAire partner isn't hard if you've already Gone Green so with a month left till applications are due October 6th, you still have time!

Hanna Leaves Arlington

2008-09-07T23:07:00.004Z

Walked through the back streets of Ashton Heights last night on my way to Clarendon looking for damage from Tropical Storm Hanna and couldn't find any. Just scattered twigs and leaves. I've seen worse from your standard summer thunderstorm.

But I did get some cool pictures of the last storm clouds exiting Arlington: