COMMUNIT-E
February 13, 2004
HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!
SENIOR VALENTINE'S DAY DANCE
From: Floto, Mary Ann (EOM) <maryann.floto@dc.gov>
Saturday, February 14 from 6:30-10:00 p.m. - Senior Valentine's Day Dance
Please join the seniors at Regency House for a Valentine's Day Dance at the
Chevy Chase Community Center, 5601 Connecticut Avenue, NW. Dance the
night away to the sounds of Danny Blew and the Blues Crew.
Refreshments will be served. Contact Kurt Vorndron at 572-5560 or Mary Ann
Floto at 202-362-0566 for more information.
CRIMES OF INTEREST
From: Crimereports.com <reports@crimereports.com>
**** PSA 201 BURGLARY - 2
3300 Block Tennyson St nw
C1 reports that his home was entered by unknown person(s) utilizing an unlocked
basement window and once inside, stole various property.
**** PSA 201 BURGLARY - 1
6200 Block 30TH ST NW
C1 & C2 report while asleep, s1 entered the home by prying the rear bathroom
window & ransacked the interior. S1 attempted to tie up c1/c2, struck c2 & demanded money. C1
complied. S1 fled.
[From KS: This is a reminder that basement windows can make our houses vulnerable
if they are unlocked or have panes large enough that someone can break them and
crawl through. Bars on basement windows are a good idea. Lots of houses are broken into
through these small, hidden, low to the ground windows. Hardware stores carry bars that
you can install yourself. I don’t advocate bars for living space rooms but the pin system or extra
lock on windows can really be a deterrent to the windows being pried open. If you want to know
more about the pin system, contact me. It’s easy and cheap.]
**** AUTO THEFT ADVISORY: DON'T LEAVE VEHICLES RUNNING UNATTENDED
Last year, more than 9,000 auto thefts were reported in the District of Columbia. National statistics
indicate that more than 20 percent of vehicles stolen had the key left in the ignition.
In recent weeks, several vehicles have been stolen in DC because the motor was running and the vehicle
left unattended. During the winter season, some people will run their vehicle to warm it up while they remain indoors.
Motorists are reminded that it is against the law to leave a motor vehicle running unattended. A motorist can receive
a $50 ticket and the vehicle could be impounded. Motorists are asked to take appropriate measures to avoid being
the victim of auto theft and not leave their vehicle running unattended.
* Read Auto Theft Prevention Tips provided by the MPDC.
MORE ON LEAD IN WATER
**** From: Pagano, Penny (COUNCIL) <ppagano@dccouncil.us>
Update from Councilmember Kathy Patterson on lead in water: If you are
having trouble getting through to WASA's Lead Services Hotline at (202)
787-2732, you may also email them at WQP2003@dcwasa.com
<mailto:WQP2003@dcwasa.com> to request a home test kit. WASA says it will
provide a free testing kit within two days, free pick-up and test results
within 30 days. You can also schedule an appointment for WASA to come to
your house to test your water, but WASA can't specify at this time exactly
when that will be. WASA has information on its website at www.dcwasa.com
<http://www.dcwasa.com> . According to its records, WASA estimates that
15%, or 23,000 properties, have lead service line pipes. WASA says it is
"very unlikely" that schools or other public buildings have lead service
pipes because construction materials for larger facilities were different.
Penny Pagano
**** NEW WEBSITE ABOUT LEAD IN OUR WATER
From: <anc3b@aol.com>
Two concerned DC residents, Paul McKay and Josh Levinson, launched a website called PUREWATERDC.com
to be a clearinghouse of information for concerned DC residents on the lead contamination issue and a mechanism
– a petition, specifically – for people to show DC leaders that they are concerned.
**** From: Karen Hopfl Harris <karen@hopflharris.com>
Many may remember the lead conversation on COMMUNIT-E in late 2002.
The private lead testing company a group of AU residents used to test
their water was Express Analytical Labs, at (717) 263-3222. I called
and they are sending out a lot of kits in the past 3 days to our area.
The cost is 22 dollars.
Also for a good fact sheet on lead in drinking water see
http://www.envirohealthaction.org/upload_files/DWLead.pdf
Karen
**** From: Kathryn Ray <kcrdlb@verizon.net>
In the Fall of 2002, several neighbors got together to have our water
tested. One neighbor ordered the sample bottles from
EXPRESS ANALYTICAL SERVICES, we all collected the samples, then she
arranged to deliver (or have picked up) the bottles.
This proved to be the most efficient method. The cost was $17.60 each.
Our water tested at .001 mg/L lead this is considered "well below" the
EPA limit of .015.
The telephone for Express is 717 263-3222, fax 717 263-2552. They are
located in Chambersburg, PA and are certified in PA, MD, VA & WVA.
**** From: <FJHDCME@aol.com>
I do not wish to start a debate but I just couldn't resist. In late 2002 the community newsletter
had a flurry of messages concerning the possibility of high lead levels in DC water. I chimed in and
described the Ecotech water purification system I bring down from Maine after I close my summer
house. I use it here until May. One reader scoffed that my system was "overkill" and that cheap Brita
and Pur systems are enough for DC. Maybe so. But my system removes 99% of any lead in the water
(along with gases, heavy metals, viruses, bio agents etc.). According to reports I have read, carbon filtration
has variable results in removing lead. So I have total peace of mind no matter what DC water includes.
Now I am only concerned that I should get a system for use in DC year around and not just when my system
isn't in use in Maine. Frank Haendler
**** From: Kathy Smith – although tests in 2002 showed that I didn’t have lead in my water,
I decided to get a filter system anyway. I found the following web site very helpful:
http://www.nsf.org/Certified/DWTU/Listings.asp?ProductType=Pour+Through&submit2=
SEARCH
I ordered, via that web site, a PUR Ultimate 10-cup pour through pitcher system.
HELP FIGHT BACK AGAINST GRAFFITI
From: Don Squires, dsquires(at)erols.com
Thru: themail@dcwatch.com <themail@dcwatch.com>
A few months ago, the Washington Post reported that two men were arrested in the act of spray
painting graffiti on a building on Florida Avenue, NW. The two men, ages 21 and 22, who live in
Colesville and Beltsville respectively and who are gainfully employed, apparently get their kicks by
plastering their "tags" on as many DC properties as they can. Their tags are not ornate but they are
very recognizable -- they are "NORES" and "KOMA." This is not the first arrest for these particular
vandals. They were arrested once before for vandalizing Metrorail cars and were given community
service as a punishment. Their current case is now pending in District Superior Court. I have been in
touch with the Assistant US Attorney handling the case who said that it would be helpful to collect
photographic evidence of these vandals' "art work" to be used to help guide the judge at the eventual
sentencing hearing. Anyone willing to help is welcome to take and E-mail me pictures of their work. To
be useful, the pictures should be only of these particular graffiti vandals -- that is, only those that portray
the tags "NORES" and KOMA." They should also be taken to show the entire building, so that the judge
can plainly see that these are each different instances (and not just a hundred pictures of the same wall).
Finally, it would help to record the address or location of the building and the date the picture was taken.
I don't have an estimate on when this case is likely to be resolved. Obviously, the sooner I can collect the
pictures the better. For anyone really interested in going the extra mile, we could also use some letters from
community leaders or business persons who have been victimized by these or other vandals to help
demonstrate that graffiti is not simply an eyesore but has real economic effects for small business owners
and DC residents.
KEEPING OUR COMMUNITY CLEAN AND SAFE FOR TODDLERS
**** From: Jesselyn Radack <jess@radack.net>
What can we do about people in our community who don't clean up after their
dogs? The other day a neighbor on Ellicott witnessed an older man with an
unleashed dog and the dog relieved itself on the snow. The neighbor said
words to the effect of, "You may not realize it, but your dog pooped and it
needs to be cleaned up." The man cleaned it up, but when the neighbor asked
what the man was going to do to prevent a recurrence, the man grew hostile
and abusive.
We experienced a similar incident a few weeks ago (unleashed dog soiling our
yard with no cleanup). I know there is a "pooper scooper" law in D.C., but
how do you enforce it, particularly if dog owners are not willing to take
responsibility? In my block we have 15 babies and kids age 3 and under.
When we first moved here, our toddler contracted a virus that is transmitted
through canine fecal matter, so this is a very real issue for folks who have
kids who are crawling around, playing in the snow, etc. It is also the law.
I'm sure this issue has come up before. Please advise.
Jesselyn Radack
[From KS – Yesterday I was on 46th Street around Yuma. There were piles of big-dog
poop on the sidewalk. It was really disgusting and whoever owns that large dog and doesn’t clean up
after it should be deeply embarrassed. As to what you can do – I would suggest keeping a camera
by the door. If you see a dog crapping and no clean-up by the owner, take pictures. Threaten to turn
them over to the police or distribute copies to your neighbors to be on the lookout for this dog. Also
contact our PSA lieutenant, Robert Aiello <MPDCPSA202@netscape.net>or the 2D Commander,
Jeffrey Moore <JAMOORE.2D-POST@mpdc.org> and ask them for help and advice. Some dog owners
don’t clean up because they think no one knows they are the ones who allowed the mess to stay there.
Public exposure may change their habits.]
UPPER WISCONSIN AVENUE DRAFT STUDY STIRS FEB. 18 DEBATE
From: BOBWRIN@aol.com
Wednesday February 18, 2004, 7:30 p.m.
Upper Wisconsin Avenue Plan: Urban Vitality or Neighborhood Threat?
Debate at the Chevy Chase Community Center , Connecticut Ave. & McKinley St.,
NW Sponsored by Chevy Chase Citizens Association
It is the most significant planning issue of the decade for our community.
D.C. officials have proposed allowing 10-story buildings near the Friendship
Heights and Tenleytown Metro stations. Chevy Chase Citizens Association has
moved its regularly scheduled meeting to Wednesday, February 18, to avoid a
conflict with a Feb. 17 public hearing on the plan.
This will be an open meeting. All interested residents are welcome.
For more information on the debate, visit www.chevychasecitizens.org
Bob Wrin
RECYCLING PICKUP
From: Pagano, Penny (COUNCIL) <ppagano@dccouncil.us>
Councilmember Patterson's office has been advised by DPW that residents
whose recycling has not been picked up on the regular collection day should
call 727-1000 and report it. DPW says that recycling that was missed earlier
in the week due to icy conditions should be held until the next recycling
day.
Penny Pagano
CALL CENTER PROBLEMS
From: Floto, Mary Ann (EOM) <maryann.floto@dc.gov>
Wed, 4 Feb 2004
The Call Center is experiencing technical difficulties. You may e-mail
service requests online by going to dc.gov. Go to the E-Services box
located in the box on the bottom left-hand side of the page. Enter Request
City Services located under online forms. You should receive a service
number within 48 hours. If this does not work, please forward your service
issue to maryann.floto@dc.gov <mailto:maryann.floto@dc.gov> .
MORE COMMENTS ON OUR LIBRARY
**** From: Erik S. Gaull <esg25@columbia.edu>
To help do something about libraries in DC, contact Martha Saccocio at
the DC Library Renaissance Project (MarthaNS@aol.com).
-- Erik
**** From: Requested name withheld
Kathy - I totally agree with your comments about the smell in the
libraries. I have also always wondered how the librarians put up with
the stink. While not nearly as good as the Montgomery Co. libraries, Tenleytown and
Cleveland Park libraries at least have a reasonable selection of new
non-fiction books
**** From: Phalen, Jan <jan.phalen@aoa.gov>
A sadder commentary on DC's libraries. 27 years ago, I went with my
one-year old son to the Tenleytown library. After that one visit I found
the Bethesda library on Arlington Road, just like J Capper. The DC
libraries were a shame then as well. What is even sadder, is that I grew up
in DC and used the Tenleytown library and Georgetown library frequently with
great success. In high school and college I lived at the Library of
Congress (not allowed today for high schoolers I think).
**** From: <CooperJM@aol.com>
To add to the comments about the DC public libraries: Are your
readers aware how easy it is to search the catalog at www.dclibrary.org and place a
hold on any book you'd like, anywhere in the system? You'll need your
library card and pin numbers handy. Then, if you've registered your email address
with the system, you will receive an email when it has arrived at the branch
you requested the material be sent to. Presto! Like magic! You can do the
same with Montgomery County. It puts a world of books at your fingertips.
I'd also like to add that the staff at Tenley-Friendship, including Eliza
Sampson, head of circulation, the librarians, and all the folks at the front
desk, including Maria, Marina, Pauline and others, are the friendliest and most
helpful people imaginable. And since the facility is rather rundown, the
wonderful people who run the library should be especially appreciated for the good
work they do. Thanks!
Jo Cooper
SUPPORTING NEIGHBORHOOD RESTAURANTS
**** From: Carolyn Long <carolynlong@earthlink.net>
My husband and I are so delighted to see that the mattress store at the corner of Wisconsin
and Albemarle has been replaced by the Neisha Thai restaurant. We ate there last weekend
with friends from New York. The interior is whimsical and creative, with simulated rock formations
and even a small waterfall. The prices are quite reasonable. The service was fine. And best of all, the
food was superlative and it did not duplicate the menu offered by our two other local Thai restaurants.
Both the upstairs and downstairs dining areas were full. I wish this restaurant all the success in the world!
This is what we've been begging for on Wisconsin Avenue, and I hope that when other business people see
how well Neisha Thai is doing, they will also want to come to Tenleytown.
--- Carolyn Long
**** From: Kathy Smith. I look forward to trying the Neisha Thai. Last week’s recommendation
for the Mediterranean Café inspired me to eat there and I enjoyed it very much. The food is very good and
the prices very reasonable.
COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD
**** From: Elissa Free <ebf4@law.georgetown.edu>
Eldercare-taker needed for my mother who lives in nearby Bethesda
(Westmoreland Hills). Mondays & Wednesday 8a-4p, with more hours
possible. If interested, please call: 301-229-8160
**** From: Donna DeSilva <rjodmd@comcast.net>
Request for info from the community, I am looking for a convenient to
Tenleytown, massage therapist with good hands to work on my very
strained shoulders. My massage therapist went to med school. I would
love to set up a weekly massage either in my home or the salon. Please
give recommendations. Donna DeSilva
**** From: Pasco, Brandt, Mr, OSD-ATL <Brandt.Pasco@osd.mil>
I'm looking for a quality contractor at a reasonable price to remove a
crumbling brick front stoop, and replace it with a covered wood and brick
porch. The owner of the other half of the duplex wants to do his too, so
the job will probably be for both. I hope someone has a recommendation
for a contractor with an eye for detail at a good price. We'd like to
have the work done in early spring. Brandt Pasco
**** From: <Marthans@aol.com>
Experienced Babysitter Needed:
Part-time babysitter needed immediately for 18-month old boy in Tenleytown
neighborhood. Mondays: 10-3:30, Tuesdays/Thursdays: 8:15-2:45. Please
respond to MarthaNS@aol.com or call Martha at (202) 237-6967.
**** From: Julie Mclean <jmclean@ShermanFairchild.org>
Here in our office we have used the services of a fabulous handyman who can
fix or build just about anything. I have recommended him to friends, family and
he always does a great job. His name is Mark Fessenden and he can be reached at
(240) 274-9802. He works for a very large design and renovation company
during the day but does side work and I recommend him highly.
**** From: starrkop@starpower.net
Furnished apartment in Mclean Gardens on quiet street with good parking,
lovely neighborhood. A sublet from July 1 until Thanksgiving 2004 Charm,
sunlight, one bedroom. second floor. 1600 per month, renter pays cable and
electricity .email me at starrkop@starpower.net. (Posssibly will be able to
let a tenant in a bit earlier.)
**** From: <StarAKA4U@aol.com>
Join the Pavilion Health and Swim Club for the Month of February and get one
month Free! We are located in the Embassy Suites Hotel in the Chevy Chase
Pavilion. We are a full fitness facility.
Tonya Walton - GM
202-362-9300 ext. 262
STATUS OF TREE BILL REGULATIONS
Tree Regulations Published for Comment
From: Rice, Bill (DDOT) <Bill.Rice@dc.gov>
The D.C. Department of Transportation today published in the DC Register
(51DCR1446, Feb 6, 2004), for a 30-day comment period, the proposed
regulations implementing the Urban Forest Preservation Act of 2002. The
draft regulations are also available on the Office of the Secretary's web
site (os.dc.gov., Office of Documents, D.C. Register).
After the comment period and approval by the Council, a permit will be
needed before a property owner removes a non-hazardous tree with a
circumference larger than 55 inches (at a height of 4.5 feet). The owner
will be required to pay a fee of $35 per inch of circumference into a tree
fund or plant saplings equal in circumference to the removed tree. The
Urban Forestry Administration in DDOT will administer the law, including
issuing the permit. Fines for violations will go to planting additional
trees throughout the District.
Comments should go to Mariclaire McCartan, Department of Transportation,
Urban Forestry Administration, 4901 Shepherd Parkway, SW, Washington, D.C.
20032, mariclaire.mccartan@dc.gov.
SIDEWALK RESPONSIBILITY QUESTION
From: Walter Wells <welwells@erols.com>
Who is responsible for the maintenance of this sidewalk between Reno Road
aand Connecticut Avenue? They need to be pushed to do a better job except
for the section between Reno Road and International Court.
That section has been well maintained and, sometimes after a little deelay
has been cleared of snow. The section east of International Court, towards
Connecticut Ave seems to belong to noone. It was not cleared of snow and
ice, even yesterday, 10 days after the snowfall of 26 Jan, I believe it
was, and could not be walked on easily or safely.
Fom International Court all the way to Connecticut Avenue. there are at
least a dozen sections wheere the bricks are missing and have been for
years. The worst parts are just west of the steps leading dowwn to the
plaza where the remaining bricks make up a path less than two feet wide
compared to the full width of seven feet. Bricks are loose or missing in
the other sections and all represent something of a hazard, especially after
dark.
Apart from the walk on the south side of Van Ness, which by the way is all
in good condition, the walk under discussion is the most convenient way to
get to Connecticut Avenue and the Van Ness UDC Metro stop for persons living
west of Reno Road and south of Warren Street and north of Upton as a
minimum. Who should be contacted too get this walk repaired and maintained?
Walter Wells
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