President's Report: Handing Out Applause

Welcome back from what seemed like a short summer. With Barcroft Elementary beginning their modified school year on August 5, the summer seemed even shorter. We’ve got a busy year ahead of us, with many exciting things happening, beginning with our first monthly meeting on Thursday, September 4, at 7:30 pm. The agenda includes discussing intersection improvements: The County is currently moving on plans to fix up the intersection at South Buchanan Street and Columbia Pike. Bill Roberts from the Office of Neighborhood Services will be at the meeting to discuss the planned improvements. He would like to solicit input on how to improve the area for pedestrians, traffic and general appearance. Please bring any thoughts, ideas and concerns about this intersection to the meeting.

As we begin a new year, I would like to single out a few of the many, many people that work to make Barcroft a great neighborhood in which to live. The Community House doesn’t take care of itself, and as it is aging and also getting tremendous use via rentals there is much to do to keep it shining. David Michaelson has been working to keep the Community House in top shape, and is embarking on an ambitious effort to restore the interior to its original splendor. He is looking for help, so please contact him at david@bscl.org if you would like to assist. Scott Brinitzer continues to keep the landscaping and garden beautiful, making our not only our functions but also strolling by the Community House so much more enjoyable. Mike Lewis, owner of Green Acres Lawn & Landscaping, contributes much time mowing and trimming the Community House lawn. Pat Williamson worked very hard to get the handicap ramp constructed, and Gary Lefebvre is working to get it painted and looking nicer. Many thanks to these folks for taking good care of our beautiful Community House.

The Community House DOES, for the most part, pay for itself through the many rentals and functions held there. That is in no small way due to the managers, Lori Fitchett and Steve Reiss. Huge thanks to these two for managing the House and all the rentals that go on there.

But wait—there’s more. Andrew Hunter once again organized a spectacular 4th of July Parade and Picnic. A great parade along with good food and a magician for the kids was provided for the neighborhood to enjoy. And, I would be remiss if I did not thank our great judges—Pat Williamson, Mark Wigfield and Karen Darner (the check’s in the mail, folks).

Finally, I would like to give recognition to Barbara Swart and the Barcroft Players, who took their Tales of Barcroft on the road to Adaline Marye Robertson’s residence for her 100th birthday party. Adaline and her family loved the performance.

In County news, the Board amended the County code to restrict parking of commercial vehicles, motor homes, camping trailers, boats and boat trailers, and vehicles carrying hazardous materials in areas zoned for residential use. These restrictions took effect July 1, 2003. The Board also revoked the entertainment permit of the Telvis Restaurant and Nightclub, located next to the Goodwill store at Buchanan and Columbia Pike.

Welcome back, folks! Hope to see you Thursday

The Barcroft Exchange

Nanny-Share Available: Our kids are getting older and our wonderful nanny is available on a part-time basis starting in September. Please call Betsy Howes-Bean at (703) 798-9533.

After school childcare wanted: We are looking for someone to take care of our 2 boys, 2nd grade and 3rd grade, after school. Both attend Barcroft Elementary. Hours of care: M, T, TH & F, 3:30 pm – 6:00 pm and Wednesdays 1:30 – 6:00 pm. If interested, please call 703-521-1953.

Misc. for Sale: Brand new Dow Corning Fiberglass bath tub, right hand drain, $100. Bundy Trombone. used one school year after overhaul/tune up, $125. Computer for parts $10. Compaq 14.5 Flat panel Monitor $150. NEC Mobilepro 750C Handheld Computer w/win CE, $150. 50+ ceramic molds, slip, glaze, paint, stain and misc. supplies, $200. Craftsman 14" gas powered chain saw, $75. Yamaha 300 amp, 12 channel amp/mixer, EM 300 Series, $150. Biamp Mixer, 6 channel mixer, Mod 6836, $110. Doll house, 3 story Colonial, 7 fire places, partially finished, wall papered, electric lights, some furniture, roofs and sides open for complete access; 15' legs; 30" wide, 29" long, 31" high [Stanley kit] $75. Ikea Hemse Flooring (similar to Pergo) Light color wood pattern 18+ sq ft $10. Several Bicycles, $15-60 Not happy with price but interestested in item? Make Offer! Call Bill 703 979-1166.

Bike for sale: Child's 10-speed Performance Trail Frog bike. $20. Call Mark, 979-0339 or email mark@bscl.org.

For sale: Large desk (34"x60") in excellent condition. $50 OBO. If interested call Kirt at 703-920-2560.

Keep up with events by joining the
Barcroft chat group and news list.
Go to:
www.bscl.org

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Next BSCL Meetings:
Thursday, Sept. 4
Thursday, Oct. 2
7:30 PM, Community House

Columbia Pike Streetscape Task Force Meets Through Summer Months

The Columbia Pike Streetscape Task Force has met every two weeks beginning last spring to explore and develop recommendations on how Columbia Pike should look as part of the recently approved Form Based Code. The County Board established the Task Force, appointed Inta Malis as Chairperson, and appointed civic leaders and County Commission members to the Task Force. Barcroft has several members, including Harvey Berlin, Elaine Squeri, Randy Swart and Bryant Monroe.

The Task will develop “cross sections” for various places along the Pike, and convene public forums to solicit the community's views on the suggested approaches.

The cross sections will define the street dimensions, design considerations, and transitions from the development districts to the neighborhoods in between. The County Board has asked that the Task Force complete its work in the September/October timeframe. Contact Barcroft's representatives for further information or questions.

Barcroft Residence Featured in National Publication, Filmed for HGTV Show

Their home was featured in an eight-page story in Home & Living Trends Magazine entitled "Change of Heart," which discussed how the home is a traditional colonial on the outside but with a modern décor on the inside. On May 22, a crew from California also interviewed the couple and filmed the interior and exterior for a segment on HGTV's "Home Across America" series. The segment is tentatively scheduled to air in early 2004.

"The Barcroft neighborhood and its excellent quality of life are an important angle in the HGTV segment," said Jorkasky, who worked on much of the exterior landscaping and Santalla, an architect, who handled the interior. "The producers were especially interested in the fact that, over the past 14 years, we had owned two different houses in this neighborhood."

Announcements

Barcroft School Fundraiser In Progress: The Barcroft Elementary School PTA has once again chosen Sally Foster® gift wrap and Harry London Chocolates® as our fall fund-raiser! We encourage you seek out a Barcroft student or parent in order to look through the catalogs and make your selections. The school will have extra copies in the office as well. Our school benefits from every purchase—50% on every item sold! Visit SallyFoster.com for online shopping; the purchases made under our school number 289676 between July 15 and January 15, 2004 will earn a 50% profit for Barcroft. You will be able to pay by credit card this way, but you will also be charged sales tax. (Orders through the school are tax-free) Our Sally Foster® catalog sale dates are August 22 to October 10. Catalog orders will be available for pickup at the school on: October 29-31. For questions concerning the fundraiser, you may call Debbie Hixon at 920-9160, Carol Hunter at 979-8247, or the school office at 228-5838.

Barbershop Music: The Arlington Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society (featuring Barcrofter Carl Costanzo!) will pay a musical tribute to the victims of the 9-11 attacks in their show “The Spirit of Harmony as United We Sing” at the Rosslyn Spectrum, 8 PM, Sat., Sept. 13. Various Arlington organization singers will participate with the Arlingtones Barbershop Chorus in this special observance and the audience will be requested to join in the singing for this memorable occasion. "United We Sing" is part of a tribute throughout the country organized by the Barbershop Harmony Society. Tickets: $10/$8. Info: 521-9331.

New Senior Center to Open -- The new Langston-Brown Community Center and Senior Center, located at 4854 Lee Highway, will be opening in September. A dedication ceremony is planned, Wed., Sept. 10 at 10:00 AM. For more info call 228-4839.

2003 Northern Virginia Senior Olympics – Sept. 13-25: The public is invited to the opening day ceremonies followed by track and field events, Sat., Sept. 13 at 9:30 AM, Falls Church High School, off Rt. 50 (between Loehmann’s Plaza and the Beltway). A true inspiration to watch these 50 to 90 year old athletes compete! For more info call 228-4721.

Taxi Service to Senior Centers - For a round trip fare of $4, Arlington seniors (55+) can travel via taxi to and from their homes to senior centers in their area. This is a pilot program approved by the County Board called Senior Center Adult Transportation (SCAT). Seniors need to register with the Office of Senior Adult Programs ($10 annual fee). For more info, contact senior centers or call OSAP for a brochure, 228-4744.

Spice up your diet with exotic veggies: This summer, three local farms (Redbud, Red Rake, and Wheatland) are expanding their farmers’ market selections to sell fresh herbs and vegetables traditionally grown in other parts of the world. Market-goers can expect to find specialty herbs such as epazote, , amaranth greens, and giant white Daikon radishes. Visit at: Arlington Farmer’s Market- Saturdays from 8am to noon, adjacent to the Arlington County Courthouse Parking lot, at N. Courthouse Rd. and N. 14th St.; Columbia Pike Market- Open Sundays from 10am to 2pm, in Eckerd Park at the corner of Columbia Pike and Walter Reed Dr.

Another Successful Parade

Thanks to all.

I think I tied MaryAnne O’Rourke’s record for number of years (7) organizing the Barcroft 4th of July parade. To be honest, the parade almost happens by itself thanks to the help of many volunteers who also realize the special nature of this event for our community.

I want to thank a long list of folks and organizations that make it possible. Here goes: Arlington County Fire Dept. and Police Dept. and especially Alice Morris the special events coordinator. Rand and Mitchell Bass for setting up the reviewing stand (tent courtesy of Randy Swart). Parade Director Marcia Oreskey. Bill Nehrke and son for the sound system. Christine Cavoli for publishing the flier and parade articles in BSCL news. Jill Herndon, and Uncle Sam (that costume is getting smaller every year). The food brigade of Scott Peterson, Alan Dickerson, Brent Miller and Dave Michaelson. Set up crew of Pat Williamson and son Dan, Ed Foley, Gary McMann. The Cackley family for a wonderful National Anthem. Gary Lefebvre for fronting the cash. The Women’s Club for the use of their parking lot. Lots of clean up volunteers like Lisa Rom, Eric Harold, Mark Wigfield, Karen Darner (thanks for the great baked beans every year!). And finally my wife Carol and kids Sarah, Alex, and Adam for last minute shopping, permit pickup and decorating.

Whew! Every year I say I won’t do it again (after all it almost happened by itself) but as I see the looks of wonder on people’s faces during our little parade and as I looked over the delighted faces of the children watching the magic show I always convince myself that this is the least I can do for my beloved neighborhood.

Now if there is anyone out there that wants to take it over next year I will gladly discuss the possibilities. . . Thanks to all.

Come Worship With Us This Fall!

September 7, 2003 – Fall Schedule Begins

8:00 a.m. Worship

*9:00 a.m. Christian Education Ages 3 through Adults

*10:00 a.m. Worship with Choir
Children’s chapel once a month during first part of service for those through grade three

*Nursery care provided

Special Event! October 5, 4:00 p.m.

Blessing of the animals on the church lawn

Come join the fun and rejoice in all of God’s creatures!

All Are Welcome!

"The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it." John 1:5

*From 1/1/03 to 6/30/03 there were a total of 17 properties sold & settled in Barcroft

* Average List Price: $410,821

* Average Sale Price: $408,525

* Average Days on Market: 43

* The local market is still active although not quite as frenitic as the past several years.

* Prices have continued to move upward although buyers are much more selective.

* "Affordable housing" is in short supply, being an extremely sought after commodity.

The Casey O'Neal Team
RE/MAX Horizons
www.caseyoneal.com
703-824-4800
Casey@caseyoneal.com
FREE Notary Service for Barcroft Residents!
Your neighborhood experts in 22204

If you are considering selling your home, or would just like to know the current market value, Please do not hesitate to call me for a free, no obligation market analysis.

Schedule of Events

Please check our calendar page on the Web for updates.

Submissions to the Barcroft News

If you are interested in ad space, contact our ad manager Jim Kerr at Jim@bscl.org

Check out our Barcroft Website for the latest news! www.bscl.org

All Barcroft News phone numbers are area code 703 unless indicated.

Barcroft News Staff

Editor - Christina Cavoli, 703-271-0631 editor@BSCL.org
Publisher/Mailing - Susan Hunn, 703-892-6179 auntsuebh@aol.com
Contributions - Mark Wigfield, 703-979-0339 mark@BSCL.org
Advertising Manager - Jim Kerr, 703-892-6458 jim@BSCL.org
Neighborhood News - Kathy Kerr, 703-892-6458 kathy@BSCL.org

BSCL Officers for 2002-2003

President - - Eric Harold - 703-486-0879, eric@BSCL.org
Vice President - - Annette Osso - 703-553-3953, annette@BSCL.org
Recording Secretary -- Eric Parker - 703-486-3649, ericP@BSCL.org
Treasurer - - Gary LeFebvre - 703-521-0184 gary@BSCL.org
Corresponding Secretary -- Sue Tennenbaum
Membership Secretary -- Peg LeFebvre - 703-521-0184 peg@BSCL.org

Board Members

Jim Kerr jim@BSCL.org
David Michaelson david@BSCL.org
Mike Behringer
Shirley Gay

Facility Managers - Steve Reiss, 703-553-0909 and Lori Fitchett 703-979-3920 email: rentals@BSCL.org
Restoration - David Michaelson david@BSCL.org
Fundraising - JoAnne Barnhart, 703-920-0821
Landscaping - Scott Brinitzer, 703-892-0308 scott@BSCL.org

Arlington Mill Community Center -- Bill Lykes, 703-892-4422
Columbia Pike - Bryant Monroe, 703-271-0944 - bryant@BSCL.org
Crime - vacant
Demeter House Liaison Committee - Darlene Mickey
Parade -- Andrew Hunter, 703-979-8247
Parking -- Tom Palance - tom@BSCL.org
Parks -- Shelley Fichtner, 703-486-0856 shelley@BSCL.org
Traffic - Elaine Squeri 703-920-7014, elaine@BSCL.org
Volunteers - Scott Royal 703-553-0909 volunteers@BSCL.org
Webmaster - Randy Swart 703-521-2080 randy@BSCL.org

The paper version of the Barcroft News is printed on recycled paper with vegetable-based ink by the Stanley Adams Printing Company. This Web page uses recycled bits and bytes, and it is not absolutely identical to the paper one.

Barcroft School and Civic League
800 South Buchanan Street
Arlington, VA 22204

Neighborline: (24 hr. announcements, Community House rentals) 703-521-1116
Email: info@bscl.org
Web: www.bscl.org

This page was last revised on: August 29, 2003.