October 15, 2024
Thanks to everyone who attended the October Meeting last week. There was a lot of good community discussion. Hopefully, that will result in more activities within the community with more people involved.
1 – FY25 Membership Drive underway!
2 – Free Hot Tub
3 – Squash the Spotted Lantern Fly
4 – Home Security Tips from FCPD
5 – FCPD Victim Services Division (VSD) launching a campaign to support survivors of domestic violence
6 – October Meeting
7 – Calendar
1 – Thanks to those who have mailed checks and made payments through PayPal to renew. I have included a copy of the renewal for to the end of this newsletter. You can print it out or copy/paste it into an email to send to me. It will also be added to the website soon – www.westspringfieldvillage.org .
If you are not sure if you are up to date, please email me to check.
As always, it is $10 to renew. If you are paying online, add a dollar. If you are paying by cash or check, do not add a dollar. You can drop off payments in the box in front of my house (6919 Vancouver Rd) to save a stamp, mail it to:
CAWSV
PO Box 2204
Springfield, VA 22152
If you want to pay online via PayPal, here are the links for renewing:
· Renew for 1 year - $11 (FY25)
· Renew for 2 years - $21 (FY25-26)
· Renew for 3 years - $31 (FY25-27)
2 – I was asked to pass along this information regarding a free hot tub:
Please ask via email if anyone is interested in a free hot tub. It is operating and we have some chemicals.
Please email me at LC6802@hotmail.com
3 – From Chairman McKay’s newsletter:
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I saw one last week in Fairfax Corner in the parking lot. I wanted to give a warning that they are very fast. They have a quick jump. Be ready to look like a fool jumping around trying to stomp one.
4 – From the FCPD Newsletter:
Fairfax County, VA – FCPD is ensuring that our community members are equipped with the necessary information and tools to protect their homes from burglars. Home burglaries can be a distressing experience, but with some precautionary measures, you can significantly reduce the risk.
1. Secure Entry Points
- Strong Doors and Windows: Ensure all exterior doors are made of solid materials and equipped with sturdy deadbolt locks. Reinforce windows with laminated glass or install security film to make them more resistant to break-ins.
- Quality Locks: Invest in high-quality locks for doors and windows.
- Sliding Doors: Place a metal rod or a dowel (Charley bar) in the track of sliding glass doors to prevent them from being forced open.
2. Adequate Lighting
- Exterior Lighting: Install motion-activated lights around the perimeter of your home, especially near the entry points. A well-lit property serves as a deterrent to potential burglars.
- Timers: Use timers for interior lights, radios, or TVs to give the appearance that someone is home, even when you’re away.
3. Home Security Systems
- Install Alarms: Consider installing a professionally monitored home security system, inside and outside of your home. Audible alarms and signs act as powerful deterrents.
- Smart Technology: Explore the use of smart home security devices, such as doorbell cameras and surveillance systems that allow remote monitoring. Remember to monitor any alarm notifications, especially when you are not home.
4. Landscaping
- Trim Shrubs and Trees: Keep vegetation around doors and windows trimmed to eliminate hiding spots for burglars.
- Remove Items that Allow for Elevated Access: Remove items such as ladders, stools, trash cans, or platforms that could be used to gain access to the second story of the house.
5. Extended Absence
- Trusted Family Member or Friend: If you plan to be away for an extended period, consider having a trusted family member or friend check on your home regularly.
- Mail and Packages: Ask a trusted family member or friend to collect any mail or packages and secure them inside the home until you return.
6. Social Media Caution
- Avoid Sharing Travel Plans: Refrain from announcing your travel plans or vacations on social media, as this information can be exploited by burglars looking for empty homes.
- Privacy Settings: Review and adjust your privacy settings on social media platforms to limit the information accessible to the public.
7. Neighborhood Watch
- Community Awareness: Establish or participate in a neighborhood watch program. Encourage residents to look out for each other and report suspicious activity to the police. Consider Flock technology in your neighborhood.
- Communication: Share information with neighbors about any recent incidents or security concerns, fostering a strong sense of community.
By implementing these practical tips, you contribute to the overall safety of our community. Remember, an informed and vigilant community is our greatest asset in preventing crime. If you observe any suspicious activity or have concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact the Fairfax County Police Department’s Non-Emergency line at 703-691-2131. In case of an emergency, dial 911 immediately.
Join us on Neighbors by Ring. A place where you can connect with your neighbors, see what’s happening in your neighborhood, and share any available surveillance footage with our department.
5 – From the FCPD Blog:
VSD is collecting donations of new, unopened beauty products to create gift bags for domestic violence survivors. Your donation can help us empower those who’ve faced unimaginable challenges. Every donation is a reminder that our community stands with survivors in their journey to rebuild their lives.
Why It Matters:
Domestic violence often leaves scars that are deeper than the eye can see. For many survivors, simple acts of self-care—like applying makeup or enjoying a soothing body lotion—can be a step toward reclaiming confidence, identity, and hope. By donating, you’re offering more than products; you’re offering encouragement, solidarity, and empowerment to those who need it most.
Donation Drop Off:
Donations can be dropped off or mailed to Saly Fayez at 12099 Government Center Parkway Fairfax, VA 22035.
What We’re Collecting:
- Lipstick & Lip Gloss
- Nail Polish
- Foundation
- Concealer
- Mascara
- Eyeliner
- Makeup Brushes/Sponges
- Eyeshadow
- Body Lotion
- Shower Gel
For more information on how you can participate, please contact Saly Fayez at saly.fayez@fairfaxcounty.gov
Together, we can raise awareness, offer support, and make a powerful statement against domestic violence.
6 – There was some discussion in the meeting. Meeting minutes are being drafted and will be available on the website for review and approval. Key topics discussed include:
-Improvements to the pool that will let it save money
-The Rolling Rd project was re-advertised last month. And they expect construction to start early next year. The utility relocation work should end this year.
-There is interest in having some community activities like there were in the past. I moved here aftere they all ended, so I do not know what was done. If you want to help come up with ideas, let me know so we can form a subcommittee.
7 – Calendar
10/17 – early voting at West Springfield Government Center – 1-7pm
10/31 – Halloween (new residents – we do it on the day no matter what day of the week)
11/3 – Daylight Saving Time Ends – Fall back an hour
11/5 – Election Day – County Holiday
11/11 – Veterans Day – Federal and County Holiday
Civic Association of West Springfield Village
FY2025 Membership Application Form
Please check your Civic Association membership and directory listing preferences in each of the blocks below. This will assure accurate listing and prompt notification of important community issues via e-mail and direct mailing. Please fill in your information and mail this form along with your $10.00 annual dues payable to “CAWSV”, P.O. Box 2204, Springfield, VA 22152.
YES NO
I / We would like NAME and ADDRESS listed in the next Community Directory
I / We would like TELEPHONE NUMBER listed in the next Community Directory
I / We would like EMAIL ADDRESS listed in the next Community Directory.
If you checked “NO” in the Telephone Number and/or the Email Address Listed blocks above, your number and/or email address will not be listed, but necessary for village news and alerts.
- LAST NAME of Resident: _________________________________________________________
- 1ST NAME of Resident: ___________________________________________________________
- 1st and LAST NAME of 2nd Resident: ________________________________________________
- Address: _______________________________________________________________________
- Telephone Number (even if you don’t want it listed): _____________________________________
- Email Address (even if you don’t want it listed): __________________________________
Annual membership dues are again $10.00; please make checks payable to “CAWSV” and return this form and your dues by 1 November 2023.
Amount Paid: $__________ Date: ________________ Check # _____________ or Cash _______