eNews ARCHIVES

For one-stop information on Events and Tips for the Holidays in Fairfax County click on the above Web site. Find out about holiday shopping at local historic sites, open houses at libraries, how to spread holiday cheer by adopting a family, in addition to other activities. An area calendar includes opportunities for shopping, ice skating, carols, and concerts. There are also safety tips for the season and six easy steps to prevent credit card fraud and protect your credit.

“As temperatures continue to drop, the Ready Virginia campaign reminds Virginians that winter weather can cause downed power lines and slippery roads. There are simple, low-cost steps any resident can take to get ready for winter.

"Hurricanes and tornadoes are not the only weather-related hazards that can impact the Commonwealth," said Michael Cline, state coordinator for the Virginia Department of Emergency Management. "Every family should be ready to deal with the dangers that winter presents."

The Ready Virginia campaign is a coordinated effort to provide vital preparedness information to Virginians. It brings state government agencies together with private sector and local government partners in a statewide initiative to prepare residents for all hazards, including natural disasters and potential terrorist attacks.

The campaign's Web site provides links to winter-specific safety information from the Virginia departments of Emergency Management, Fire Programs, Social Services and Transportation, as well as the American Red Cross and the National Weather Service. Information includes heating safety, generator safety, fire safety tips, winter driving guidelines, types of winter weather advisories and how to respond to them, winter preparedness information for kids, and the VDSS energy assistance program for low-income Virginians.”

Fairfax County seeks public comment until December 29 on an interim agreement to rezone 6.65 acres of county property on Silver Lake Boulevard, near the intersection of Beulah Street and Manchester Lakes Boulevard in Alexandria. This site is located on Tax Map 91-3((9)) 8B, which can be viewed by entering map number 0913090008b at http://icare.fairfaxcounty.gov/Search/GenericSearch.aspx?mode=PARID. The county is considering a public-private partnership with Lee Village at Silver Lake, LLC to design and build a new regional library and work force and older adult housing at this site. The interim agreement will be available at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dpwes/construction/lee_village or call 703-324-5800, TTY 711.

Send comments to the Clerk to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors either by e-mail at clerktothebos@fairfaxcounty.gov or mail to Clerk to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, 12000 Government Center Parkway, Suite 533, Fairfax, VA 22035. For more information, contact the Fairfax County Department of Public Works and Environmental Services at (703) 324-5800, TTY 711.

No law exists that require you to rake your leaves or remove snow. However, “while not legally obligated, citizens and businesses are asked to help keep sidewalks safe. They should, as soon as feasible, clear snow off the sidewalks in front of their property so that all pedestrians, especially school children, those with disabilities, and the elderly, may walk securely.”

Select the "start" subscription option next to “Focus on Franconia” and enter your e-mail address. You will receive a confirmation e-mail to which you need to simply reply as instructed. E-mails concerning the "Focus on Franconia" will be coming from "FRANewsletter."

The November/December issue of Focus on Franconia is available for download at:

>> Franconia Crime Prevention Officers Alice Bennett and Jim Nida, (703) 922-8263

“Consumers, their family members/significant others, and service providers are invited to take this anonymous survey to share their input on the mental health services in Fairfax County. This survey was developed by consumers in cooperation with Columbia University. The survey measures the type of actions or situations that promote or do not promote recovery from mental illness.

“Results from the survey will be used to help the Commission form recommendations on the future direction of mental health services in Fairfax County. Summarized results, as well as the Commission’s recommendations, will be available on the website when ready.”

A compilation of all links previously published in eNews is now available on the BBHCA Web site. New links are added with each issue of eNews. Your suggestions are welcome!

“As part of its ongoing mission to inspire people to care about the planet, National Geographic Society acquired the Green Guide in March 2007. Dubbed the `green living source for today’s conscious consumer,’ The Green Guide is an invaluable resource for men and women, from young adults to grandparents, striving for a healthy and `greener’ lifestyle.” Subscribe for FREE online via the above link.

Looking for opportunities to volunteer in our community? Don’t have much time? Check out Volunteers for Change, our weekend and evening program for busy, working adults. Need service hours for middle or high school requirements? Click the link above for more information and the most current postings.

On Nov. 6, Fairfax County voters will be asked to vote "yes" or "no" on a county transportation bond referendum on the general election ballot. The referendum asks voters to allow the county to borrow up to $110 million to pay for a variety of transportation projects. These include making improvements to roads, sidewalks and mass transit facilities.

Of the $110 million, more than $71 million would be spent on improving roads across the county, including six major and seven minor projects. Almost $24 million would be used to improve mass transit facilities, including Metrorail and Fairfax Connector. A total of $15 million would fund safety and access improvements to sidewalks and trails across the county.

p Zoning 101: Land Development System
http://ldsnet.fairfaxcounty.gov/ldsnet/

You can now search for individual zoning applications and or plans and studies submitted to the County to perform land-disturbing activities. The Land Development System (LDS) database can be searched for zoning applications or construction plan submissions meeting any combination of the 31-search criteria. LDSnet provides access to information in the Fairfax County Land Development System (LDS). LDSnet is comprised of two systems: the Zoning and Planning System (ZAPS) and the Plan and Waiver System (PAWS).

p Board of Supervisors Approves Expanding Tree Canopy and Preserving Designated Trees

Oct 15—The Board of Supervisors approved expanding the tree canopy in Fairfax County to 45 percent by 2037. Accordingly, up to 400 trees per year will be planted at county facilities. They also adopted a “Tree Preservation Ordinance” that protects individual specimen, heritage, memorial or street trees from being cut down. However, the law only affects individual trees that property owners voluntarily agree to safeguard.

“…Fairfax County has…lost 48 percent of its tree canopy over the last 32 years. Along with the physical loss of trees, Fairfax County has lost significant levels of environmental services that were provided by those trees. For example, the 85,600 acres of canopy lost since 1973 had the capacity to remove approximately 2.4 million combined pounds of sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, ozone and particulate matter annually, at a value of approximately $6.8 million per year.5 In addition to air quality benefits, the county also lost significant levels of water quality, energy conservation and other socio-economic and environmental benefits with those trees.” (Fairfax County Tree Action Plan, http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dpwes/environmental/treeactionplan.pdf, p 11. December 2006)

Fairfax County launched the Special Needs Registry as part of National Preparedness Month activities. The online registry is intended to allow residents with medical needs and organizations assisting those with social needs to provide Fairfax County with information so that the county can communicate information about emergency preparedness, response, and recovery resources to vulnerable, at-risk, and hard-to-reach residents. The registry has two distinct categories:

· The Medical Needs Registry will contain the names and addresses of individuals with medical needs who have a high-risk health condition that is either temporary or chronic and who cannot manage for themselves in a shelter or evacuation center; will require assistance in performing the activities of daily living; and/or will require care for and the monitoring of a health condition. The Medical Needs Registry is voluntary and all information collected will be kept confidential and stored on secure Fairfax County servers.

· The Social Needs Registry is a tool used by Fairfax County to facilitate access to groups in need of specialized communications and/or transportation during an emergency. People with social needs are individuals who are vulnerable, at-risk or hard-to-reach in the event of an emergency but are not medically dependent. This includes people with disabilities, limited language proficiency, public transportation dependent and/or household pets and service animals. The nature of the assistance provided to those people will be determined by the individual, the emergency and the resources available to the county. Organizations assisting those with special needs should register with Fairfax County to ensure the safety and well-being of these individuals in an emergency.

The registry may be used for any emergency requiring evacuation, such as flooding, hurricanes, hazardous material spills and gas leaks. This information will be available to emergency planners and will facilitate the county’s preparedness, response and recovery efforts. However, those who are on the registry should still call 9-1-1 in the event of a life-threatening situation.

To register online visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/specialneeds. Residents may also request registration materials by phone or mail. Call 703-324-9000, TTY 703-324-9001, or write to the Fairfax County Office of Emergency Management, 12000 Government Center Parkway, Suite 565, Fairfax, VA 22035 for more information.

On Nov. 6, Fairfax County voters will be asked to vote “yes” or “no” on a county Transportation Bond Referendum on the general election ballot. Information about the referendum is now available on the Fairfax County Web site. This online resource will allow residents to get general information, watch a short video, and view maps.

The referendum asks voters to allow the county to borrow up to $110 million to pay for a variety of transportation projects. These include making improvements to roads, sidewalks and mass transit facilities. Of the $110 million, more than $71 million would be spent on improving roads across the county, including six major and seven minor projects. Almost $24 million would be used to improve mass transit facilities, including Metrorail and Fairfax Connector. A total of $15 million would fund safety and access improvements to sidewalks and trails across the county.

As part of National Preparedness Month in September, Virginia launched “Ready Virginia,” a coordinated effort to provide vital preparedness information to the people of the Commonwealth. Ready Virginia encourages citizens to prepare for emergencies by taking three easy steps: get an emergency supply kit, make an emergency plan and stay informed about the hazards that could impact Virginia. The new Web site, see link above, features specific steps families and businesses can take to prepare themselves for disasters and emergencies.

The most important and easiest action you can take to prevent getting sick and spreading illness to others is to wash your hands. The most common germs that cause illness (colds, flu, gastro-intestinal, etc.) can be eliminated by effective hand washing. Click on the link above for the facts and free signs in English and Spanish.

It’s autumn and the leaves are starting to fall. Not looking forward to the back-breaking labor of raking and bagging leaves? As those of you at the special BBHCA gardening seminar heard earlier this year, there’s an alternative that is far easier on your back, better for your lawn, and better for the environment. Let the leaves lay where they fall and use your mower to turn all those leaves into fertilizer for your lawn. Mulching mowers are best for this purpose, but a regular rotary mower would also work according to the Virginia Cooperative Extension service. The mower shreds the leaves into tiny fragments that quickly disintegrate into the soil. University studies show there are no undesirable effects at all for lawns, and this a win-win situation for you and the environment. Just as with regular mowing, you have to pick up twigs and other hard objects before you mow and use of a dust mask and eye protection is recommended. For additional information and safety tips, click on the link above. [submitted by Jeanne Henry]

The Fairfax County Zoning Ordinance is subject to periodic revisions upon action by the Board of Supervisors. The Zoning Ordinance is available online and is now current as of September 11, 2007. Should you have any questions regarding the Zoning Ordinance, please contact 703-324-1314, TTY 711 and ask to speak with the planner of the day. The Zoning Ordinance is available in portable document format (PDF). In order to view PDF files, you will need Adobe Reader version 6.0 or greater installed on your computer.

>> Proposed amendments to the Fairfax County Zoning Ordinance can be viewed at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dpz/zoningordinance/proposed/. Current amendments under consideration relate to the Workforce Housing Program.

All meeting times and locations are subject to change. The online calendar is updated often so you may want to check it again as it gets closer to the meeting date. For more information relating to specific meetings, call the contact number listed. For general information about the calendar, call the Office of Public Affairs at 703-324-3187, TTY 711.

One of the easiest steps you can take to be prepared and be informed in the event of an emergency is to subscribe to emergency alerts as an individual or as a business. During a major crisis or emergency, Fairfax County uses the award winning Community Emergency Alert Network (CEAN) to deliver important emergency alerts, notifications and updates. Fairfax County government offers the Medical Needs Registry, the Social Needs Registry, and the CEAN as a public service. The registries (see above story) and CEAN will be used in conjunction with other public notification methods such as Fairfax County Government Channel 16, the Fairfax County Web site, the Fairfax County Emergency Information Line (703-817-7771, TTY 711) and area media.

Have questions about transportation? Save this all-in-one site for information on commuting, public transportation, residential traffic and parking, road conditions and maintenance, and vehicles and vehicle safety.

Podcasts are audio files that deliver content over the Internet. Fairfax County now offers podcasts as an additional way to provide information. A podcast is different from other digital audio formats because of the ability to downloaded audio files automatically using RSS or subscriptions. Podcasts may be listened to on a computer with a media player. An audio device such as an iPod is not required to listen to podcasts.

Subscribe to a podcast to have new programs automatically downloaded to your computer or portable device by right clicking "Subscribe," choose "Copy Shortcut," and then paste the address into podcatching software such as iTunes.

Join BBHCA to receive news updates and announcements on community-related events and issues by e-mail. We need your support to continue providing the newsletter, Web site, e-mails, and community meetings. Where else can you get so much for only $10? Take a minute now to complete the 2007–2008 BBHCA Membership Application. Encourage your neighbors to join too! Together we can make a difference on the issues that directly affect our neighborhood.

Remember: Only BBHCA members can vote on community issues and any actions taken by BBHCA.

Click on the above link to the September issue of the BBHCA News (PDF) online. A print copy will be mailed the first week of September to all residents of Brookland-Bush Hill and Gunnell Estates. Note the file size is more than 4 MB and may take a while to download.

“As temperatures soar and dry conditions are forecasted to persist through August, area residents and businesses are being advised of the importance of water conservation efforts, especially outside the home, to help alleviate unnecessary demands on the region’s water systems, the Drought Coordination Committee (DCC) at the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) announced.

“Regional officials emphasized that there is an adequate supply of water in the Potomac River and reservoirs to meet both current and future needs. However, practicing wise water use in and around the home is key to ensuring the stewardship of the region’s water resources. Current forecasts indicate that the unusual period of dry weather that the metropolitan Washington region has experienced since the spring is likely to continue.

"`Thanks to foresight and planning by area water utilities and local governments, the metropolitan Washington region is far better prepared to withstand a severe drought than many other regions,’ Joseph Hoffman, Executive Director of the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin, said.” For additional details and information, click on the article link above or resources below.

Got a problem? Check this page on the BBHCA Web site for common issues and the contact information for the proper county service or authority.

Please understand that BBHCA does not enforce county regulations and laws. However, if problems persist or you do not get the proper response from authorities, please contact us and we will work with you, the authorities, and other parties to resolve the issue.

Also, please be a neighbor first. Let your neighbor know that they may be breaking the law or county codes and provide them with the contact information for the respective authority.

Virginia Senate....................... George L Barker (D) and JK "Jay" O'Brien, Jr. (R)

Commonwealth's Attorney...... Raymond F Morrogh (D) and Patrick A McDade (R)

Chair, Board of Supervisors .. Gerald E "Gerry" Connolly (D), Gary H Baise (R), and Glenda Gail Parker (IG)

Lee District Supervisor........... Jeff C McKay (D) and Douglas R "Doug" Boulter (R)

School Board (3) ................... Christian N Braunlich, Ralph M Cooper, Jr, Paul A Costantino, Martina A "Tina" Hone, Stephen M "Steve" Hunt, Ilryong Moon, James L "Jim" Raney, Christopher E Volkstorf

NV Soil and Water Conservation District Directors (3)
Johna Good Gagnon, Sally B Ormsby, John W Peterson, Daphne D Sahlin

“Shall the Board of Supervisors of Fairfax County, Virginia, contract a debt, borrow money and issue bonds of Fairfax County, Virginia, in the maximum aggregate principal amount of $365,200,000, for the purposes of providing up to $315,200,000, in addition to funds from school bonds previously authorized and any other available funds, to finance the costs of additional capital improvements, including acquiring, building, expanding and renovating properties, including new sites, new buildings or additions, renovations and improvements to existing buildings and furnishings and equipment, for the Fairfax County public school system and providing up to $50,000,000, in addition to any other available funds, to finance the cost of expanding, renovating, improving, furnishing and equipping facilities for the repair and other servicing of school busses, school vehicles and other County vehicles?”

“Shall the Board of Supervisors of Fairfax County, Virginia, contract a debt, borrow money and issue bonds of Fairfax County, Virginia, in the maximum aggregate principal amount of $110,000,000 for the purpose of providing funds for the cost of constructing, reconstructing, and improving and acquiring transportation improvements, including improvements to primary and secondary State highways, off-street parking, pedestrian improvements, and ancillary related improvements and facilities, and including capital costs of necessary land, transit facilities, rolling stock and equipment in the Washington metropolitan area allocable to the County pursuant to the provisions of the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority Compact?”

You can submit your notice of change of name and/or address either by mail (12000 Government Center Parkway, Suite 323, Fairfax, VA 22035-0081) or by fax (703-324-2205). In either case, the notice must include your signature to be valid. Notice cannot be made by telephone or by e-mail.

After your change is processed, you will be mailed a new Voter Information Card. If a new card does not arrive within a few weeks, please call us at 703-222-0776 to confirm that your notice was received.

p Meetings of Interest (Lee District)
(Click on meeting title to link to respective Web page)

Citizens Advisory Committee (Lee District)
Wednesday, September 19 at 7:30 pm
Franconia Government Center, 6121 Franconia Road
BBHCA Representative: Bob L’Heureux, neighborhoodwatch@bbhca.org
Franconia Crime Prevention Officers Alice Bennett and Jim Nida, (703) 922-8263

Thursday, September 27 at 7:30 pm
Franconia Government Center, 6121 Franconia Road
BBHCA Representative: Jeannie Henry, president@bbhca.org

This is an informational meeting for citizens on a specific subject each month.

Monday, November 19 at 7:00 pm
Franconia Government Center, 6121 Franconia Road
Call 703-971-6686 for recorded information
BBHCA Representative: Carol Alim, landuse@bbhca.org

“Tour de Lee” is Lee District’s annual bicycle event geared to riders of all abilities. Its purpose is to promote family fun and to show off the bicycle opportunities in Fairfax County's Lee District. For details, click on the link above.

Expert Ride:            8:30 - 9:30 am
X-Ride:                   8:30 - 9:30 am
Family Ride:            9:30 - 10:30 am

“The Department of Homeland Security's Ready Campaign has released three new demonstration videos designed to highlight the specific steps older citizens, individuals with disabilities, and pet owners should take to prepare for emergencies. DHS worked with AARP, National Organization on Disability, and The Humane Society of the United States to develop messages for each group about the three basic steps to emergency preparedness: get a kit, make a plan and stay informed.”

The Consumer section of the NAHB Web site is full of information for homeowners, including home maintenance, remodeling, and green building options. The site is not comprehensive by any means, but it has good information.

“Virginia was recently named the `best state’ in the nation to do business by Forbes Magazine. The Virginia Department of Business Assistance (VDBA) is committed to maintaining that stellar rating by a commitment to our mission: To promote economic growth by helping Virginia businesses prosper.” If you are thinking of starting a business in Virginia, the staff of the VDBA will connect you with the resources you need to meet challenges and realize market opportunities. Make your dream a reality and check out the Web site today.

Posted 7/6/07

BBHCA eNews

July 2007

p Urgently Needed! BBHCA Vice President of Membership

Looking for an easy way to serve your community? If you have approximately 5–7 hours a month, are familiar with basic spreadsheets (Excel), and enjoy people, this is the volunteer opportunity for you! Your civic association urgently needs a Vice President of Membership. For more information, contact Jeannie Henry, President, by e-mail at president@bbhca.org or call (703) 525-8972 (evenings).

p Contribute Your Questions to the Candidates Debate

The BBHCA Board has made arrangements for a debate between the candidates for Lee District Supervisor at the September 18 community meeting. We would like to get your thoughts on questions that we should ask the candidates to address in their presentations. Let us know what issues are important to you by e-mailing your questions to president@bbhca.org. Please submit your questions by July 31.

p Zoning 101: They Paved Paradise and Put Up A Parking Lot

Residents along the 5700 block of Westchester (and beyond) have been privy to the noise of bulldozers for most of the month of June. The noise, sometimes starting at 6:30 am, has been emanating from the Sagres Construction Company on Oakwood Road. According resident Mike Wooten, whose residence backs to the site and who spoke with representatives of Sagres, the company has razed the wooded site in order to lay gravel for an employee parking lot. The representative apologized for the early morning start times and indicated they would be putting up a fence around the lot. Other residents on Westchester had previously contacted Marc Wadsworth, who is in charge of zoning issues in Lee District Supervisor Dana Kauffman’s office, to complain about the excessive noise.

Based on the complaints, Kauffman’s Chief of Staff Jeff McKay asked Fairfax County Inspector Jim Getts to look into the matter. According to an e-mail follow-up on July 3, Getts “visited the site today and ascertained that there has been illegal land clearing and no permit. A notice of violation will be prepared on Thursday and delivered on Friday. There should be no further construction until Sagres Construction submits a plan to Fairfax County and that plan is approved.”

p Zoning 101: Strike Teams Focus on Zoning, Building and Safety Violations
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/opa/striketeam/

June 1—“Fairfax County is undertaking a countywide effort to crack down on illegal boarding houses, and today, the code enforcement teams are operating in the northern and southern parts of the county.

Earlier this week, the strike teams had already issued violations for four homes, and the county is pursuing legal action against two properties. Residents can report a suspected illegal boarding house at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/striketeam.

“Overcrowded and illegal boarding houses harm more than just our quality of life,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman Gerald E. Connolly. “These illegal homes can be unsafe for the residents living in them, as well as the neighborhood. This effort is aimed at keeping our neighborhoods safe, vital and attractive.”

Deputy County Executive Robert A. Stalzer leads the overall initiative, and there are 15 different county agencies staffing the effort’s operations, planning, logistics, financing and administration. Operationally, there are two strike teams composed of zoning, building, health and fire code inspectors. Police officers, sheriff’s deputies and county attorneys are also supporting the teams’ efforts.

The teams are responsible for inspecting residential properties suspected to be illegal boarding houses or with suspected violations. As part of the initiative, the county also will seek to prosecute landlords who are profiting from systematically violating zoning, building and safety ordinances.

Given the recent changes in state law, the county will use all the authority currently available while continuing to consider any new legislation that may be needed to deal with illegal boarding houses.”

>> Make a Complaint

Residents May Submit Zoning Complaints Anonymously

Although zoning complaints are confidential by law, Lee District Supervisor Dana Kauffman recently reminded the leaders of the area's civic associations that he is willing to be the complainant of record. Residents may want to report potential zoning violations (such as illegal boarding houses, unpermitted structures, or hazardous debris), but hesitate to do so because they are afraid of repercussions from the violators. Such residents can forward their legitimate zoning complaints to Dana’s office. He will them submit the complaint in his name so that the resident’s name does not appear in the records for the complaint.

Dana’s office can be contacted at 703-971-6262.

p Mandatory Recycling of Mixed Paper and Cardboard Begins July 10
www.fairfaxcounty.gov/recycling

All Fairfax County residential and non-residential properties (including schools, businesses and institutions) will be required to recycle mixed paper and cardboard beginning July 10. The responsibility to establish a recycling program on both residential and non-residential properties rests with each property owner. Recycling requirement guides have been prepared to assist non-residential and multi-family residential property owners. For more information, click on the link above.

p BBHCA Community Yard Sale Turns a Profit

A total of 19 homes participated in the 2007 BBHCA Yard Sale (compared to 25 last year). Registration fees brought in more than $180 minus expenses of approximately $100. Fees for nonmembers were increased this year. All proceeds go towards BBHCA expenses.

A short follow-up survey (13 replies) sent to all participants showed that 85% made enough in sales to make their effort worthwhile. Survey results were e-mailed to participants and posted to the Web site at http://www.bbhca.org/PDFs/2007_BBHCA_YardSale_SurveyResults.pdf.

p Neighborhood Watch

Robert D. L'Heureux, Chair, (703) 971-3039
neighborhoodwatch@bbhca.org

The usual amount of petty theft in Springfield and Lorton has been reported, along with the usual number of auto thefts. With the summer weather, however, those disposed to crime have more time on their hands. Please use reasonable caution in locking your homes and autos both at night and during the day. Ask neighbors to look out for your property if going on vacation or away for a weekend. Don't make it tempting.

Finally, in late May, a man running for exercise on Springfield Road was bitten on the leg by a rabid bat. Keep a sharp eye out. Never touch wild animals-especially mammals, dead or alive. If they permit you to touch them, they are likely rabid.

>> Franconia Crime Prevention Officers Alice Bennett and Jim Nida, (703) 922-8263

p Breathe Deep, With Caution
www.fairfaxcounty.gov/airquality

“Although the air quality in our region has improved significantly during the last several decades, it still does not meet the federal standards for ozone and fine particulate matter. Last year there were 21 days forecast as Code Orange and above for ozone pollution. If everyone contributes by taking a few air quality actions, it will be a tremendous step toward meeting the standards.

There are several easy ways you can make a positive impact this summer.

§ Turn your car engine off instead of idling. The major cause of air pollution in this region is vehicles and their exhaust fumes. If you know that you will be idling more than 30 seconds waiting in line at school, the bank, the gas station or drive-up restaurants, you can save gas and reduce exhaust by turning your engine off and restarting it.

§ Change to energy-efficient, compact fluorescent light bulbs. Replacing a single 100-watt incandescent light bulb with a fluorescent one can save $30 in electricity costs over each bulb's lifetime, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Fluorescent bulbs also last 10 times longer. If every household used five fluorescent light bulbs, they could prevent greenhouse gas missions equal to more than 8 million cars, according to the EPA.

§ Take the bus. This year, Northern Virginia bus lines, including Fairfax Connector, will offer free rides on Code Orange days, in addition to Code Red and Purple days. For information, go to www.fairfaxcounty.gov/connector.”

p How Does Your Garden Grow?

Water Your Lawn Wisely
http://www.thegreenguide.com/blog/tow/828

“According to the EPA, landscape irrigation is estimated to account for almost one-third of all residential water use, totaling more than 7 billion gallons per day. Resist the temptation to keep your lawn golf-course green and follow these water-saving tips.”

p Poll Shows U.S. Coastal Residents Unprepared for Hurricanes
Emergency Management Update, June 20, 2007

“Despite the historic and devastating hurricane seasons of 2004 and 2005, a new Mason-Dixon poll reveals that a dangerously high percentage of residents in hurricane-vulnerable states still aren't prepared, don't take the threat of hurricanes seriously and have big gaps in what they know about hurricanes—even among those who live within 30 miles of the coast.

Among the most alarming findings of the survey:

§ 53 percent don't feel vulnerable to a hurricane or related tornado or flooding.

§ 52 percent have no family disaster plan.

§ 61 percent have no hurricane survival kit.

§ 88 percent have taken no steps to make their homes stronger.

§ 16 percent said they might not or would not evacuate even if ordered to do so.

The poll is one of the leading elements of the National Hurricane Survival Initiative, http://www.hurricanesafety.org/, a public education and safety outreach partnership that includes the National Hurricane Center, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the National Emergency Management Association, the Salvation Army and the state of North Carolina.”

p Links To Keep

Politics and Money Go Together Like…

http://vpap.org/cands/index.cfm

Wondering where the money comes from that goes to our politicians? This easy-to-navigate site shows you exactly where the political bucks start and stop.

Fairfax County Summer Concert Series

http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/performances/

The Web site for the summer concert series has had a major facelift. You can now search by genre, performance type, date, or key word. Plus, you can download and print the brochures for each region. Summer has never been hotter!

Fairfax Libraries Offer Free Entertainment Indoors

www.fairfaxcounty.gov/library/branches/

Authors, actors, artists and animal wranglers will give free performances and presentations at library branches all summer long. Also, teens can participate in special activities such as film production workshops; and students entering 7th and 8th grades can win up to $100 in a special writing contest co-sponsored by the For Love of Country Foundation. The events and activities are free; registration is required for most. Call your local library branch to sign up beginning two weeks before an event; a list of branches and telephone numbers is available via the above link.

p eNews Takes A Break in August

The next issue of the BBHCA eNews will be published in September. Matters of urgency will be posted if necessary. Have a great summer!

BBHCA 2007–2008 Board

Jeannie Henry, President president@bbhca.org

Sarah Kelly, VP Newsletter newsletter@bbhca.org

VP Membership membership@bbhca.org

Kevin Henry, Treasurer treasurer@bbhca.org

Deborah Moore, Secretary secretary@bbhca.org

eNews Editor
Sharada Gilkey, BBHCA member eNews@bbhca.org

p BBHCA Community Yard Sale
http://www.bbhca.org/pr05_bbhca_yard_sale_051703.htm

Saturday, June 9, 2007
8:00 am – 1:00 pm

Looking for a good deal on a lamp, rug, or whatnot? Maybe discover a find good enough for the Antique Road Show? Well, now’s the time to get out, have a little fun, meet your neighbors, and go yard sale shopping! Invite a friend and see who can find the best bargain. For yard sale tips and etiquette, click on the link above!

p I Got the Music in Me!
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/performances/downloads/07LeeWebAd.pdf

Kingstowne Concert Series
June 7 – August 24, 2007
Across from Kingstowne 16 Movie Theatre

Lee District Concert Series (Fairfax County Parks)
June 6 – August 29
Lee District Park Amphitheatre

Click on the above link for a PDF of the Lee District and Kingstowne shows. Bring your lawn chairs. For a list of performances at other locations in the region, go to http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/performances/

p Bill Grants Federal Recognition To Six Virginia Tribes
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/05/02/AR2007050200123.html

The Washington Post reported that a bill sponsored by U.S. Rep. James P. Moran Jr. and approved by the House Natural Resources Committee would Federally recognize six southeast Virginia tribes: the Chickahominy, the Chickahominy Eastern Division, the Upper Mattaponi, the Rappahannock, the Monacan and the Nansemond. “…there are about 3,000 members of the six tribes, most of whom live in the Jamestown area…” Moran expects the bill to pass both the House and Senate.

p Neighborhood Watch

Graffiti was reported on the 7-11 wall facing Rose Hill Drive and on the bus stop at the John Marshall Library location.

p Crime Prevention: Tips To Protect Your Identity and Your Money
Crime Prevention Officers Alice Bennett and Jim Nida, (703) 922-8263

Scams work because people fall for them. Protect yourself from identity theft—and from thieves stealing your money. Learn about common scams and what you need to remember to avoid being a victim.

Don’t divulge personal information

You receive an alarming email saying your bank account is about to be closed. You're urged to respond quickly to verify your identity by clicking on a link to a website. Follow the instructions and you'll be delivering your personal data directly into the hands of identity thieves who are "phishing" for information. If successful, they can run up huge bills for purchases you didn't make.

What to remember:

Don’t click on links within emails asking for your personal or financial information.
Contact the organization using a phone number you know to be genuine, or open a new browser and type in the company's URL.
Use anti-virus software and a firewall, and keep them up to date.

Beware of credit card phone scams

You get a telephone call asking for your credit card number in order to claim a “free gift for credit card holders.” Or the caller tells you “your credit card has been used fraudulently”—and then asks for the code on the back. These are two variations of popular telephone credit card scams.

What to remember:

NEVER give out your credit or debit card number—or the code on the back of the card—to a person calling you.
If you’re worried that your card is being used fraudulently, hang up and call the number on the back of your card.
Report scam activity to your credit card company.
PayPal does not call users on the phone asking for account information.

Watch out for “checks” mailed to you

You get a cashier's check in the mail along with a letter congratulating you for winning a lottery. Then you're asked to send money—often by wire—to process your claim. The check is a fake but so realistic even your bank may be fooled. By the time the check bounces, you’ve already wired the money and are left to repay the bank any money withdrawn against the bad check.

What to remember:

If you don't remember entering a lottery, this is probably a scam aimed at obtaining your money or personal information.
If someone you don't know wants to pay you by check but wants you to wire money back, it's a scam.

Don’t be fooled by fake online pharmacies

Counterfeit prescription drug websites are set up to get your money. But they can also hurt your health. When you buy from them, you’ll either get nothing or counterfeit medicines that are contaminated, contain the wrong active ingredients, or contain no active ingredients at all.

What to remember:

Look for websites displaying the National Association of Pharmacy VIPPS (Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites) accreditation program seal.
Know your medicine. Any time you get a prescription refilled, check the color, texture, taste, and shape of the medicine.

p Fairfax County Actions Help Protect the Environment

EPA Green Power Partner

Fairfax County received the designation from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in recognition of county efforts to reduce the risk of climate change through green power purchasing. This allows the county to utilize a number of EPA communication tools to help promote green power purchases.

Wind Energy Expansion

The county recently entered into a three-year contract with 3 Phases Energy to purchase more than 24 million kilowatt hours of clean, renewable wind energy through the Virginia Energy Purchasing Governmental Association. By the end of the contract term, wind power will account for 10 percent of the county's annual electricity consumption, up from the current 5 percent.

"Cool Counties" Initiative

Fairfax County is partnering with a select group of counties across the United States and the Sierra Club to create a template for local governments to begin reducing their greenhouse gas emissions in favor of more environmentally friendly practices. A number of "Cool County" strategies already have been implemented in Fairfax County, including the purchase of hybrid vehicles (now totaling 90); the promotion of green buildings for both public and private facilities (the Fairfax Center and Crosspointe Fire Station, for example); the purchase of wind power; and the utilization of telework (Fairfax County was the first jurisdiction in the metropolitan region to achieve the goal of having 20 percent of its work force teleworking one day a week).

These actions further support the Board of Supervisors' environmental agenda outlined in "Environmental Excellence for Fairfax County - A 20-Year Vision." Adopted in 2004, the agenda identifies six areas of focus for environmental protection: growth and land use; air quality and tr