Thursday, March 31, 2011

Recommended: Local Summer Camps for Kids

Our companion email list, the Cleveland Park Listserv, is a treasure trove of recommendations. We want to share on All Life Is Local, on a periodic basis, the best recommendations that have been posted on the Cleveland Park Listserv. You'll be able to search All Life Is Local for "contractor," "plumber," "computer tech," "auto body shop" -- whatever you need.



The Sidwell summer camps at the Sidwell Friends School are really great summer camps, especially for little ones!

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I can't sing enough praises for the Cleveland Park Club camp, run by Rives Carroll, Katie Miner, and a cadre of highly energetic middle school CITs. My boys possess very different temperaments, energy levels, and interests, but both of them (now 6 and almost 9) are keen for another summer of morning jump-roping, outdoor play, arts and crafts, singing, skits, swimming, summer friends, and traditions they have enjoyed for years. While the camp ends early (1pm), particularly for working professionals, we have never regretted our decision to line up extra child care in the summer so our children can attend this wonderful camp. Our older son has dabbled with a few of the other camps on your list, but the CPC camp is by far his favorite. It's a low-key and relatively unstructured camp, rich in outdoor play, traditions, and community: http://clevelandparkclub.org/en/Camp.html

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Thinking ahead, the Cleveland Park Camp is a sure winner for kids ages 5-9 years old. It is a neighborhood institution offering kids opportunities to do an assortment of activities from tag to swimming to art projects. As the brochure aptly states "the informal program combines old-fashioned, self-directed play and organized hands-on activities. My two older kids have participated in this camp and my 5 year (soon to be 6) is signed up for this summer. He loves it!

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I would strongly recommend the Cleveland Park Club camp. It is a well run, low key experience with swimming that is popular with the children in the neighborhood. Both of my daughters went there for a number of years, and they always enjoyed it.

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My kids also did the Cleveland Park Club summer camp. I really liked that too.

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My 8 year old twins went to Lowell summer camp when they were 4 and 5 and loved it. They have a swimming pool and provided a structured swim class each day. I truly believe out of all the swim lessons we put our children in, they made breakthroughs at Lowell with their swimming because of the skilled instructors there. And, today they swim competitively. Outside of the swimming, it is a great camp program, especially for young campers -- lots of indoor and outdoor activities to keep them occupied.

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Our granddaughter who lives in Winchester, VA has gone to the Cleveland Park Camp for a week while visiting us. She has had a great time each year. She is now 7. After camp we arranged swimming lessons at the Club pool. Each week of the summer has a different focus which keeps the program fresh and fun.

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Heast School's Community E-Cycle on Saturday, 8:30am - 11:30am

Hearst Elementary School is holding its third annual Community E-Cycle. It's happening in Cleveland Park this Saturday, April 2 from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. This event is free and all collected materials will be either reused (in our free-cycle) or sent to Ft. Totten for recycling. Here is a list of what will be accepted:
  • Audio/visual equipment
  • Floppy disks and hard drives
  • Audio cassettes
  • Memory chips
  • Camcorders, digital cameras
  • Network/video
  • CD rom drives, CDs/DVDs
  • Power supplies
  • Cell phones and pagers
  • Computer towers and monitors
  • Laptop and netbook computers
  • TVs, VCRs, and VCR cassette tapes
  • iPods and MP3 players
  • Connectors/cords
  • Video games and software
  • Copy machines
  • Unbroken CFL light bulbs
  • Fax machines, printers, scanners
  • Batteries (no car batteries)
  • Game consoles (Wii, PS3, Xbox)
  • Video games and hand held game systems
  • Graphing calculators
  • Tape drives
  • Printer cartridges
Phoebe Hearst Elementary is located at 3950 37th St. NW.  You can find more information at http://www.hearstes.org/e-cycle.

Stay green!

Lion Cubs...So Cute

Awww. And more awww. While photos of the National Zoo's lion cubs are wonderful, seeing them in person is even better. So what are you waiting for? Log off and walk over the Zoo! (And you can view more photos on the Zoo's website.

Good Morning

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Ask Kelli: What to Tell Sister, Contractors, Picky Girlfriend?

by Kelli Miller

Dear Kelli,

My sister is embarking on a new career. I’m happy for her because she hated her previous job, but I honestly don’t feel she’s talented enough for her newest potential career choice. Do I tell her? Or let her figure it out on her own?

Signed,
Should I Be Honest?


Dear Should I Be Honest,

It’s nice that you are looking out for your sister but let me ask you: How do you know she’s not talented enough for her new career? Is this your opinion or fact? I’m all for letting her see for herself how things work out. Even if she’s applying for something with a specific set of criteria (a NASA astronaut, the WMBA, etc.), give her the opportunity to experiment without raining on her parade. You never know. Perhaps even if you don’t feel she’s talented enough, her employer might. Or maybe she’ll be a good fit for another job within the field.

Could you imagine how she'd feel if you shot down her confidence and she never got the chance to apply for her dream job? Don’t try to make the decision for her -- let her do it on her own.

All the best,
Kelli

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Embarrassing Incidents

Cartoon by Dave Walker

DDOT Meeting on Cleveland Park Giant Construction-Related Issues: April 11

Posted by ANC Commissioner Nancy MacWood on the Cleveland Park Listserv

Editor's note. This meeting has been canceled. It will be rescheduled. 

On Monday, April 11, from 6:30-8:30PM at the Second District Police Station, DDOT will conduct a design workshop. The workshop is intended to elicit neighborhood views on several issues DDOT is reviewing prior to the beginning of the Giant PUD construction. Some of the issues that DDOT is seeking more information on were prominently mentioned during the January ANC 3C meeting that Karina Ricks, Associate DDOT Director, attended. The issues include:
  • The design and functioning of an Idaho/Wisconsin/Ordway curb extension to replace the striped section of that intersection
  • The operation of Idaho Avenue when traffic signal is installed and when Idaho west of Wisconsin accommodates 2-way traffic
  • The design of the Wisconsin Avenue crosswalk to be installed with new traffic signal
  • Routing of truck traffic to and from the construction site
  • The relocation of the bus station stop on Newark Street west of Wisconsin Avenue.

Typically, DDOT sets up stations with knowledgeable staff listening and writing down residents' comments. DDOT may present some options that they are considering in each of the listed areas. Giant has been asked to participate and provide whatever materials they think would be useful for the community to know and evaluate. This is an opportunity for you to engage with DDOT and Giant on some of the issues that have been prominently mentioned in previous discussions. DDOT and Giant will incorporate your views in their later meetings about how to move forward on these issues.

As I get more information from DDOT I will share it and offer some further details about the parameters of some of the topics. This is not a typical occurrence but I think it represents the commitment of DDOT and Giant to approach this major construction event with as much sensitivity to the community as possible.

For those who are wondering whether phasing of construction might be back on the table, I have been told that both blocks will be constructed simultaneously.

Your Dose of Daily Weather

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

At-Large Council Candidates Forum on Thursday

On Thursday, March 31, there will be a forum for candidates running for the at-large DC Council seat in the April 26th Special Election. The forum, which starts at 8pm, will be moderated by Tom Sherwood and Mark Segraves, and will take place at St. Columba's Episcopal Church, 4201 Albemarle St. NW.

All of the candidates on the ballot are expected to attend: Sekou Biddle, Vincent Orange, Patrick Mara, Bryan Weaver, Joshua Lopez, Stanley Mayes, Alan Page, and Jacque Patterson.

There's more information about about this forum at www.dcward3dems.org.

Panel Explains New "Smart Meters" on March 30


 
What happens when the reliability of electrical service is uncertain and what happens when new technology is introduced by utility companies? In 2011, AARP DC will take up these issues by exploring solutions to improve reliability, providing information on smart meter installation and operation, and giving DC residents the opportunity to raise concerns.

What:  Reliable Electric Service and Smart Meters
Who:  Panelists representing AARP, Office of the Peoples Counsel, Pepco, and the Public Service
Commission
When:  March 30 from 6:00 - 7:30pm
Where:  Tenleytown Library, 4450 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, Washington, DC

All DC residents are invited. Light refreshments will be served.

Free on the Cleveland Park Listserv

Cleveland Park Listserv's Iconic Logo Photo
 taken by Bill Adler

The Cleveland Park Listserv is the area's largest neighborhood email list, with over 10,000 members. It's a great place to talk about city and neighborhood issues, find services, such as plumbers, hear about area events, and more. The "more" department includes giving away and getting free things. Everything from ovens to DVDs to plants get given away. Why throw something out, when that thing can find a happy home with somebody else?

People join the Cleveland Park Listserv for the conversation and information, but hang around for the free stuff, too.

Recommended: Water Heater and Boiler Installers

Our companion email list, the Cleveland Park Listserv, is a treasure trove of recommendations. We want to share on All Life Is Local, on a periodic basis, the best recommendations that have been posted on the Cleveland Park Listserv. You'll be able to search All Life Is Local for "contractor," "plumber," "computer tech," "auto body shop" -- whatever you need.


We had something like that done to our house and Gary Frank did a wonderful job.  His office is in Bethesda. We live in a row house and they are difficult to heat but Frank's people engineered a balanced system.

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We used John Fulcher for a newly installed high efficiency boiler for radiator heat.  It's been great (Installed in Dec).  We got the highest efficiency unit possible that would accommodate our radiator flush system. Call 202-258-6158.

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I use a guy named John Simmons, who runs a one man show and is fabulous! I just replaced my heating system and hot water heater and he did a great clean and efficient job! 301 871-5397.

Your Daily Dose of Weather

Monday, March 28, 2011

Washington Tweets

Washington tweets. A lot. The Washington Tweets column is a collection of the most interesting, recent Washington-area tweets. These tweets reveal a candid and fascinating portrait of what is on our collective minds: Twitter gives a snapshot of what we're doing, thinking and hoping for as a group. Washington Tweets is Washington in the raw. Bill Adler tweets at @billadler.

#Vincent Gray - sigh- I am interested in his speech tonight

Vincent Gray raised cab prices in the city a dollar. Some great way to start your term. #Strikeone

Politics and Prose, the iconic D.C. bookstore, has been sold to two former Washington Post reporters

Maybe these new owners will let me do a reading there? RT @csriad6: Politics and Prose in DC has new owners! Great news:

DC institution that we'll keep supporting! RT @tomsietsema One of my favorite book stores has been sold (to good peeps)

We're Making Changes

Cleveland Park Metro Canopy:
The Cleveland Park Listserv's Iconic Logo
Over the next few weeks we'll be adding new features and design elements to All Life Is Local. There may be a few moments here and there when All Life Is Local won't be accessible. But fear not, we'll be back pretty swiftly if that happens. And in the meanwhile, you can visit our companion email list, the Cleveland Park Listserv at www.cleveland-park.com. Founded in 1999, the Cleveland Park Listserv is the largest and most vibrant neighborhood email list in the Washington, DC area.

Today in History Website

Run, don't walk to the best "today in history" website, created by Nikon. With fascinating facts and even better photos, this history website makes for great work avoidance. You can view a terrific slideshow online, or download Nikon's history screensaver.

This is among the most creative and dazzling websites on the Net.

Recommended: Car Service

Our companion email list, the Cleveland Park Listserv, is a treasure trove of recommendations. We want to share on All Life Is Local, on a periodic basis, the best recommendations that have been posted on the Cleveland Park Listserv. You'll be able to search All Life Is Local for "contractor," "plumber," "computer tech," "auto body shop" -- whatever you need.

I use a wonderful messenger service called Transtime Express. Tell them exactly what you want and request a driver with a nice car. They have delivered my mom to doctors appointments, my pet to the vet and driven me to several out of the way places for reasonable prices. Call 301-652-6662. Ask for Ben or Ali.

Your Dose of Daily Weather

Sunday, March 27, 2011

Time Waster: 3D Ping Pong

It's simple, it's fun, and it's just a tad addiction: 3D Ping Pong. This online game is especially fun when you have lots of work because it will take your mind off of that work. There's not a whole lot else to say about this game, except, enjoy!

Recommended: Boiler Installer

Our companion email list, the Cleveland Park Listserv, is a treasure trove of recommendations. We want to share on All Life Is Local, on a periodic basis, the best recommendations that have been posted on the Cleveland Park Listserv. You'll be able to search All Life Is Local for "contractor," "plumber," "computer tech," "auto body shop" -- whatever you need.



Last week we installed a high energy efficiency gas boiler with associated hot water heater: Weil-McLain Ultra 230 High Efficiency Condensing Gas Boiler.  The cost for the two units plus installation and some odd-ends work was $12,500.  We ended up using MBS mechanical, and I liked the customer service from the owner and crew.  I went with them since they gave me a slightly better price, plus we already had a service contract with them.  Thus I felt that for accountability reasons it was better to have the same company install the unit (no possibility of the service company blaming problems on faulty installation "by the other guys") The hot water heater runs off the boiler adding to the overall energy efficiency.  The two units are a lot smaller than the old ones, so we regained a 7 by 7 foot storage room area. I was pleased with their work. Ask for Matt who is the owner, 301-680-8888.

Your Daily Dose of Weather

Saturday, March 26, 2011

Recommended: Cabinetmaker

Our companion email list, the Cleveland Park Listserv, is a treasure trove of recommendations. We want to share on All Life Is Local, on a periodic basis, the best recommendations that have been posted on the Cleveland Park Listserv. You'll be able to search All Life Is Local for "contractor," "plumber," "computer tech," "auto body shop" -- whatever you need.

We had wonderful work done on two separate occasions by Designcraft Woodworking. Terry Nagorski and Diane Martin's work is impeccable; they're great problem-solvers, extremely reliable and neat to boot. You can reach them at 301-461-9150 and visit their website at www.dcwoodwork.com.

Recommended: Chiropractor

Our companion email list, the Cleveland Park Listserv, is a treasure trove of recommendations. We want to share on All Life Is Local, on a periodic basis, the best recommendations that have been posted on the Cleveland Park Listserv. You'll be able to search All Life Is Local for "contractor," "plumber," "computer tech," "auto body shop" -- whatever you need.


I know a great chiropractor, Dr. Justin Klein, who just set up his new office over in spring valley (49th and Mass Ave). I do a lot of programming which has lead to some very long coding sessions that leaves my back killing me. He's been a huge help not only in assuaging current back pain, but in what I can do to prevent future issues. One of the better benefits of seeing him is that his practice is heavily focused on patient care, so he can spend the extra time with me explaining everything clearly and addressing all my issues, rather than focusing on getting me in, cracking my back, and then showing me the door.

I highly recommend him: Dr. Justin Klein 888-841-2225 or www.gotyourbackchiropractic.com.

Free on the Cleveland Park Listserv

Cleveland Park Listserv's Iconic Photograph, Taken by Bill Adler

The Cleveland Park Listserv is the area's largest neighborhood email list, with over 10,000 members. It's a great place to talk about city and neighborhood issues, find services, such as plumbers, hear about area events, and more. The "more" department includes giving away and getting free things. Everything from ovens to DVDs to plants get given away. Why throw something out, when that thing can find a happy home with somebody else?

People join the Cleveland Park Listserv for the conversation and information, but hang around for the free stuff, too.

Your Daily Dose of Weather

Friday, March 25, 2011

Still Life with Robin: Thirteen Months Old

by Peggy Robin

A year has flown by. How did that happen? Yes, I’ve been writing this column for more than a year. The anniversary was actually a month ago, on February 26, 2010: The first column was published on the Cleveland Park Listserv. All Life Is Local did not yet exist; the birthday for this website is April 2, 2010.

The subject of that first column was the phenomenon of complaints choirs, springing up in various cities -- a group of singers who perform an area-specific song that puts all the woes of that particular city to music. The subject appealed to me because I like to complain. However, I recognize that others may not like to hear someone complain too much – especially someone who, for the most part, is lucky enough to have very little of consequence to complain about. So I pledged in my seventh column to do my best to hold down my natural curmudgeonliness and keep the complaints to a minimum. Now is the time to take a look back and see how well I stuck to that pledge -- and what I did with all my non-complaining columns.

Herewith, the breakdown of subject matter for the past 55 weeks:

Complaints columns: Just five! After that initial column on complaints choirs, there was column #3, complaining about name changes (of streets, hotels, businesses), and then #17 bemoaning the obnoxious, constant buzzing of vuvuzelas at the Soccer World Cup. Column #24 told tales of well-meant assistance with bad outcomes, and finally, #29 whined about how hard it is to remove those horrible security tags on clothing if they’re accidentally left on after checkout.

I have done sixteen columns that I would classify as “slice of life” pieces or musings on miscellaneous themes. (That’s the “still life” I had in mind when I named the column “Still Life with Robin.” Some of these were: #14 cooking according to a recipe when you discover you are missing one key ingredient; #16, a story of what happened one 4th of July when the air conditioning went out; #22 on pens and keys; #25 on stacking plates in the dishwasher and handling other mundane household chores.

Ten columns were on travel/vacation/ holidays/fun places to go: #20 about beaches; #25 about packing suitcases; and #39 on TSA’s habit of taking away useful objects (like knitting needles) when you pass through security.

Play Conference Call Bingo

You no longer to have your eyes buried in your lap, doing the "Blackberry prayer" during a boring conference call. You don't have to try and press the keys on your computer's keyboard quietly so you can update your Facebook status while the meeting goes on and on and on.

Instead, play Conference Call Bingo, where you score a box for events like somebody uttering the phrase "on the same page;" two people talking at once, and hearing somebody chew their lunch. Bookmark Conference Call Bingo, http://www.lifesize.com/bingo/play.html, and your next conference call will become a game (even if it is one already.)

Recommended: Doctor Who Can See You Now

Our companion email list, the Cleveland Park Listserv, is a treasure trove of recommendations. We want to share on All Life Is Local, on a periodic basis, the best recommendations that have been posted on the Cleveland Park Listserv. You'll be able to search All Life Is Local for "contractor," "plumber," "computer tech," "auto body shop" -- whatever you need.


My family goes to Doctors Kerry and Michael Gray. They are a husband and wife team who run a walk-in clinic in Bethesda across from Bethesda Sport and Health. It's at  4314 Montgomery Avenue, on the one-way street that runs parallel to East West Highway. You can go anytime during business hours and some time on Saturday. The downside is sometimes there is a long wait. Kerry Gray has become our family doctor. We love her and she takes Blue Cross. Call the office at 301-951-3606 for more information.

Your Daily Dose of Weather

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Symphony of Science

How did the universe begin? How was something created from nothing? The answer, through quantum fluctuations in the vacuum field, sounds so cold, so distant. But the creation of the universe was a beautiful thing, wondrous. Watch the the story of the creation set to music from Symphony of Science:

Recommended: Oral Surgeon

Our companion email list, the Cleveland Park Listserv, is a treasure trove of recommendations. We want to share on All Life Is Local, on a periodic basis, the best recommendations that have been posted on the Cleveland Park Listserv. You'll be able to search All Life Is Local for "contractor," "plumber," "computer tech," "auto body shop" -- whatever you need.


I highly recommend Dr Jeffrey Gitelman in the Dupont Circle neighborhood in DC. 202-223-3391. He is an amazing surgeon. He worked on my son who had an emergency several years ago. He is also a great guy, and is very empathetic.

Looking to Dispose of Electronics Environmentally? Power Purge & Shred, Apr. 27

Spring cleaning goes electric in Crystal City with the annual Power Purge and Shred.

When:   April 27, 2011 from 7am – 7pm.
Where:  20th and Bell Street, 2001 Jefferson Davis Highway Arlington, VA

The Power Purge & Shred allows area businesses and residents to safely and securely shred and recycle unwanted and outdated documents and electronics.

Partnering with the eCyclers division of the Kane Company, the Power Purge & Shred drop-off site will take everything from batteries, desktop computers and laptops, to TVs, monitors and microwaves. The eCyclers' strict chain-of-custody maintains control over the electronics from the moment they pick it up until it is safely, securely and responsibly destroyed by their personnel and subsequently delivered to a US EPA-approved recycler. Skeptics can even watch the eCyclers team physically destroy their hard drives with an onsite "hard drive crusher" and walk away with a certification of secure destruction and rest assured that the equipment will never find its way to offshore toxic waste sites.

Documents will be shredded on site courtesy of the Office Shredding division of the Kane Company. Document destruction can help reduce the risk of exposure by ensuring proper compliance with existing privacy laws and keeping abreast of new or updated federal regulations. The Kane Company can also help ensure compliance with the guidelines of corporate ethics programs, safeguard public image, and protect businesses, customers, and employees from identity theft.

This is a project of the Crystal City Business Improvement District.


Your Daily Dose of Weather

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Ask Kelli: What to Do about Eating, Spending, and Inquisitiveness

by Kelli Miller

Dear Kelli,

I’m in college here in the area, and a good friend of mine recently started chewing her food and then spitting it out. She swears it’s not a disorder—she just does it when she wants more flavor and not calories. I’m worried. This just started so I haven’t seen any significant weight loss yet, but I’m scared it could grow into something more. Should I confront my friend and risk our friendship?

Signed,
Spit it Out


Dear Spit it Out,

First, I’ll say that you have a right to be concerned. Chewing and spitting out food is a form of disordered eating. I’m glad you noticed this now before it could turn into something more detrimental. Although the potential weight loss a concerning factor, the fact that she is doing this in the first place signifies some sort-of anxiety, compulsive disorder, depression, or other mental health disorder. So we need to get to the real root of the issue.

It’s interesting you are concerned about “risking your friendship.” Isn’t a friendship about being honest and open with one another? Isn’t a friendship about caring and showing support to our friends, even if that means possibly hurting their feelings? When it comes to friendships, in my opinion it’s more important to try and help a friend than worry she will be mad at you. You are absolutely doing the right thing by talking with her about this. Think about the alternative: You don’t say anything and your friend may get worse.

South Africa Adventure: November 2011

Join us for an adventure in South Africa this November. We'll spend 16 days touring and traveling around, visiting cities and going on safari. We leave from Dulles; this trip is designed with Washington-area residents in mind. If you've always wanted to visit South Africa (and who hasn't), this will be an amazing vacation. Oh, at at a terrific price, too, that includes accommodations, airfare, excursions -- everything.

The places you'll see include Johannesburg, the Kruger region, the open savannah of Gauteng Highveld, Swaziland, the Hluhluwe/Imfolozi Game Reserve, Knysna, Cape Town and more. Click here for the details or hop over to http://bit.ly/southafrica2011. The trip is from November 3 to November 18, 2011.

Huge Used Book Sale at Palisades Library on March 26

This Saturday, March 26, there will be a great used book sale at the Palisades Public Library.  Hours are from 10 AM to 4 PM.  Come to the second floor of the library at 4901 V Street NW (at the corner of MacArthur Blvd. and V Street, NW).

The sale is put on by the  Friends of Palisades Library, and all proceeds will be used to benefit the Palisades branch.  There will be thousands of books of all types, most priced from 10 cents to $1.00, or you can fill a bag for $10. All fiction is alphabetized and nonfiction categorized for easy browsing. 

Call 202-955-2873 or 202-362-4492 for more information.

Your Daily Dose of Weather

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Share a Photo of Your Breakfast and Donate a Breakfast to a Needy Child

If you send a photograph of your breakfast, Kellogg will donate a breakfast to a child in need. There are several ways to share your breakfast: You can upload a photo of your breakfast, or if you don't have a photograph, you can simply describe your breakfast and Kellogg will make the donation. Alternately, you can text the word SHARE with a photo or a description of your breakfast to 21534.

Kellogg's goal is to donate one million breakfasts by the start of the 2011 school year.  According to Kellogg, one of four children live in homes where there is no regular breakfast available to them.

There's more information and you can view some photos that have been uploaded on Kellogg's Share Your Breakfast website.

Historic Georgetown House Tour Is on April 30

The Georgetown House Tour, the oldest continuing private house tour in the country, highlighting historical, interesting, unique and idea-filled homes, has annually opened its doors to the community. This year the tour will be held on Saturday, April 30th and will showcase many of Georgetown's finest historic homes.

Houses are arranged for easy walking at your own pace taken in the order you prefer. Your ticket price includes a tour booklet full of useful information, including a map of the houses which will make it possible to set your own route.

Also included in your ticket price is a not-to-be-missed Parish Tea in Blake Hall at the historic St. John's Church located at 3240 O Street, NW. In longstanding tradition, this lovely tea features homemade tea sandwiches and sweets. You may walk in at any time between 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. to delight in what the parish volunteers are serving!

All Georgetown House Tour events are open to the public. Ticket prices for individuals wishing to attend the 2011 Georgetown House Tour are as follows:

$50 per person when purchased before April 22, 2011
$55 per person when purchased after April 22, 2011
$45 per person for groups of 20 or more

On-line ticket sales begin March 1st and end April 28th.

Tickets can be purchased on-line. The Tour is held rain or shine. Prior to the House Tour, there is a Patrons Party on Thursday, April 28th, to honor homeowners who have graciously opened their homes for the tour. There is a separate donation of $175 which also includes admission to the tour and tea.

For further information about tickets for the 2011 Georgetown House Tour and the reception, please call 202-944-5296 or visit www.georgetownhousetour.com. For more information about tickets for the Patrons Party, contact Frida Burling at fridafro @ aol.com.

Top Ten Reasons to Join the Cleveland Park Listserv

Cleveland Park iconic photo by Bill Adler
Cleveland Park is an email list for people who live in Washington, DC and the Cleveland Park neighborhood. It's a way to meet, exchange news, and find out what's happening in the area. The Cleveland Park Listserv is Washington's most vibrant electronic community, the largest neighborhood email list in the country, and the only neighborhood email list with an columns and features.  Visit www.cleveland-park.com to join.

10.  It's an A-List that doesn't require you to be a major donor to any political party.

9.  You'll find out about new restaurants, secret parking places, neighborhood events, street construction, crime, and other activities that affect your life.


8.  You'll know more about what's going on in the District of Columbia than the DC Government does.  (Well, you probably know already.)

7.  You'll hear about the latest shark capture in the Potomac and bedbug infestation in time to take appropriate action.

6.  You need a good plumber now, you'll find a good plumber now.

5.  Being on the list won't increase your property tax assessment.

4.  Being on the list may give you ways to lower your property tax assessment.

3.  You don't have to wait until the newspaper is delivered at 4:30am to find out what's been happening.

2.  Somebody will be able to answer your question:  "What was that helicopter doing in the sky at 12:30am?"

And the number 1 reason to join the Cleveland Park Listserv:

1.  You have an excuse to stay indoors at your computer when it's 95 degrees and humid outside.

With over 10,000 members, the Cleveland Park Listserv is the largest neighborhood email list in the United States.  Join us!  The Cleveland Park Listserv is spam-free and calorie-free. 

Your Daily Dose of Weather

Monday, March 21, 2011

DDoT Holds Open House on Conn Ave Streetscape Design Project on March 31

The District Department of Transportation (DDoT) will be presenting the preliminary construction drawings for the next phase of the Connecticut Avenue Streetscape Project at an Open House on Thursday, March 31.

DDoT says that the project will bring major enhancements to the public space along on Connecticut Avenue from H Street, NW to Dupont Circle, including 17th Street along Farragut Park, and will include a landscaped median from K Street to Jefferson Place.

The Connecticut Avenue streetscape project was developed by DDoT in partnership with the Golden Triangle Business Improvement District (BID) board of directors and community stakeholders in 2007 to enhance the public space along Connecticut Avenue from Lafayette Park to Dupont Circle in support of economic development throughout the area.

Members of the business community, residents and other interested stakeholders are invited to attend this Open House to view the preliminary construction drawings, talk to DDoT officials and provide input on the drawings. Attendees are welcome to stop by any time during the Open House hours.

What: Open House for the Connecticut Avenue Streetscape Project

When: Thursday, March 31, 2011 from 3 pm to 5 pm

Where: Golden Triangle Business Improvement District (BID) office, 1120 Connecticut Ave., NW, Suite 260

The BID office is near the Dupont Circle and Farragut North Metro Stations on the Red Line and the Farragut West Metro Station on the Blue/Orange Lines. It’s also accessible from several bus lines.

Please RSVP to David Suls at dsuls @ goldentriangledc.com or 202-463-3400 by Monday, March 28.

For more information about this project please contact Gholam Ali Agahi, DDOT Project Manager, at 202-438-8928 or gholam.agahi @ dc.gov.

The Case Against Electric Fences

by Michele Wolin

Underground electric/invisible fences are not good for dogs. There are so many problems with these fences that they are simply too much of a risk to use  -- despite the claims of the companies selling them. They often don't work for various reasons; I personally know two people who had dogs who got out of their invisible fences and were hit by cars. In fact, some area rescue groups won't even adopt to people who plan to use an invisible fence.

Here's a brief summary of some of the problems:

1) Some dogs will go through the fence if there is an enticing enough reason (e.g., a squirrel, another dog, or some other enticing animal.), despite the shock they receive. (Labs in particular can be impervious to pain.) Once they're out, they may not want to return because of the shock.

2) The batteries in the collar can fail, or the system can stop working for various reasons; once again, the dog is now able to get loose.

3) The dog doesn't know why it's being shocked, which can lead to several possible problems. Some dogs become fearful (you absolutely should never use these with dogs who are already sensitive, shy or fearful) and shut down, and some refuse to go into their yards at all. Some become aggressive; if the dog goes running up to people or dogs walking by the yard, and then gets shocked at the boundary, the dog will start to associate the shock with the people/dogs walking by, and then may become aggressive towards people/dogs. The shocking can also lead to a dog becoming anxious and nervous; some dogs don't react that way, but why take the chance? And if the dog develops problems with fear, aggression, or anxiety as a result of these shocks, it is very hard to undo the damage.

4) Even if the fence successfully keeps your dog in, it doesn't keep other dogs from entering your yard, and some of these dogs may be aggressive.  Also, think about coyotes, if you're near the park and have a small dog. Think about people who can enter the yard, take off the collar, and walk off with your dog. You should never leave your dog outside unattended.

Here are some links if you'd like to learn more, or you can Google "problems with invisible fences."

http://care.dogboston.com/invisible-fences-%E2%80%93-good-or-bad/

http://www.positivedogs.com/articles/electronic_fencing.html

http://www.petsbest.com/news/pet-industry-news/long-term-health-effects/

http://shakewaggleroll.com/Documents/Invisible%20Fences-%20The%20Bad%20and%20The%20Ugly.pdf (opens a PDF)

http://positivepaw.blogspot.com/2011/02/problems-with-underground-or-invisible.html








Recommended: Hairdresser

Our companion email list, the Cleveland Park Listserv, is a treasure trove of recommendations. We want to share on All Life Is Local, on a periodic basis, the best recommendations that have been posted on the Cleveland Park Listserv. You'll be able to search All Life Is Local for "contractor," "plumber," "computer tech," "auto body shop" -- whatever you need.

You should try Bak Lam at Paul Bosserman Salon, 3214 N St NW, 202-337-0020. He has turned my frog fur into enviable tresses; he's great at coloring and cutting and is a super nice guy. Though you may think otherwise, parking in that part of Georgetown is not a problem.

Your Daily Dose of Weather

Sunday, March 20, 2011

Recommended: Local Summer Camps

Our companion email list, the Cleveland Park Listserv, is a treasure trove of recommendations. We want to share on All Life Is Local, on a periodic basis, the best recommendations that have been posted on the Cleveland Park Listserv. You'll be able to search All Life Is Local for "contractor," "plumber," "computer tech," "auto body shop" -- whatever you need.

A great old-fashioned, fun day camp for kids from ages 5 to 9 is Cleveland Park Club Camp. It's a small, homey camp, with games like spud, kickball, and tag. Each week has a different theme, such a Mythology, Weather, or Theater Games. (These are three of the weeks this summer.) My kids loved it and went for many summers when they were small, and returned to be CITs when they were older. The camp has a pool, too.

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My boys absolutely loved two local camps when they were that age, both right here in Cleveland Park.

Headfirst Camps are all great - and located at St. Albans School (playing fields are on Garfield Street, just west of 34th).  Their sports camps start at age 6, but they have a really fun day camp for kids 3.5-6 with a mix of activities (everything from science projects to martial arts, rock climbing, cooking, and moon bounce) and a different fun theme each week.

My boys also really enjoyed Beauvoir summer camp (Woodley Road at 35th Street), whose great attraction for me was their outdoor pool:

Friends & Neighbors Breakfast for the Homeless on May 11

by Marjorie Dick Stuart

Please join me at my table at the 7th Annual Friends and Neighbors Breakfast put on by the Community Council for the Homeless at Friendship Place.

When: Wednesday, May 11, 8:30-9:30 AM
Where: Washington Hebrew Congregation, 3935 Macomb Street, NW

Space is limited and reservations are required.  Please RSVP to Marjorie Dick Stuart at 240-731-8079 or email Marjorie @ MarjorieDickStuart.com.

Whether you're already a supporter of the Community Council for the Homeless at Friendship Place or are a curious newcomer to our mission, we encourage you to join us for this event -- an inspiring program that
celebrates the way our small organization makes a big difference in the lives of the men and women that turn to us for help. It's only an hour, and you'll head off to work with the uplifting knowledge that right here in our community, neighbors are doing wonderful work.

Yes, it is a fundraiser. We will ask you for donations, but whether or not to contribute is entirely voluntary. Mostly, we want you to come and enjoy yourself.

Just as Dangerous as Driving Drunk: Driving Long Hours at Night

Approximately 20 percent of all traffic accidents can be attributed to prolonged nighttime highway driving, according to a study published in the Journal of Sleep Research. Being sleepy at the wheel can be a result of too few hours of zzz's; it can also be caused by medication. Drivers who were tested in this study showed significant impairment: They drove as badly --as dangerously-- as drivers who had been drinking. Two hours of nighttime driving was the equivalent of a blood alcohol level of .05; three hours, .08.

On a related note, here's a frightening statistic: According to the National Sleep Foundation, 37 percent of drivers in the United States admit to falling asleep at the wheel within the past year.

Sleepy? The best thing to do might be to leave the car at home and not risk being the cause of the next accident reported on the Beltway.

Your Daily Dose of Weather

Saturday, March 19, 2011

Cats Will Take Over the World

If you believe in evolution, then be afraid, be very afraid, for cats will soon be taking over. Don't believe me? Watch this video and see for yourself.

Recommended: Shoe Repair

Our companion email list, the Cleveland Park Listserv, is a treasure trove of recommendations. We want to share on All Life Is Local, on a periodic basis, the best recommendations that have been posted on the Cleveland Park Listserv. You'll be able to search All Life Is Local for "contractor," "plumber," "computer tech," "auto body shop" -- whatever you need.

I recommend Phillip's Shoe Repair at 808 Upshur Street near the Intersection of Georgia Avenue.  Phone: 202-726-5762. It's not close but Phillip is from Italy and he really knows leather. He's been a miracle worker in resuscitating several pair of shoes for me. He's closed on Mondays.