"The Crier"                  

 

 The Colonies Monthly Newsletter


A Publication of The Colonies Condominium at McLean

Volume XXXV Number 3 

March  2010  

 

 

 

Quick Links

 

 

 

 

Administrative Office Hours/Emergency Contacts

March Classified Ads

Services Available

 Advertising Guidelines

The Colonies Online Connection
RECYCLING Guidelines

 

BECOME A BUILDING REPRESENTATIVE

 

If you wish to be a building representative please submit your name to the office 703-827-8388.
We still need six representatives for Bldgs. 3, 4, 9, 10, 11 and 12.
Building representatives need to be year round residents in the building they want to represent.

 

Current building representatives are:

 

                               Bldg. 5       Ginny Sandhal/Claudia Bonetti

                               Bldg. 6       Sandra Sincavitz   

                               Bldg. 7       Carolyn Baldwin

                               Bldg. 8        Eliana Romeo          

                               Bldg. 13      Nathan Dean

                               Bldg. 14      Alfonso Zavala

 

COUNTDOWN:  Mark Your Calendar

Annual Meeting, Wednesday, May 12, 2010 at The Colonies Clubhouse.

 

Change your Clock…

   Change your Smoke  Detector  Batteries..

 

Spring Forward                March 14th

Daylight savings time begins and clocks move forward.

 

SMOKE ALARM  MAINTENANCE
Clean your smoke alarm monthly by gently vacuuming to remove dust and cobwebs.
Test the smoke alarm every month.
REPLACE THE BATTERY ANNUALLY.
Smoke alarms do not last forever so it is a good idea to replace any smoke alarm that is more than 10 years old.

For additional information, contact the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department’s Public Information and Life Safety Education Section at 703-246-3801, or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/fire.

 

SPLINTERS FROM THE BOARD

 

The Meeting of the Colonies Board of Directors on March 3, 2010, a cold, wet, winter evening, was preceded by a lengthy Owners Forum. The many issues brought up by attendees included:  pet and trash violations; mud tracked onto hall carpets; noise outside buildings (especially at night); fire doors being repeatedly propped open threatening building residents’ security; maintenance of the common areas; and status of building representative list. Apropos common area maintenance, it was noted that the problem is compounded by the age of the complex, resident carelessness and repeated vandalism, and the effects of the harsh winter. Colonies staff have been scrambling just to keep up with the snow plowing and shoveling and to remove the debris caused by heavy snow and winds. After all the storm-related projects are tackled, the usual spring clean up and spruce up will commence.

 

Apropos building representatives – there were volunteers for all but four buildings and these names will be published in the Crier. If anyone in the four unrepresented buildings is interested in volunteering to be their building representative, please contact the office.

 

There were also questions about the many Tysons projects such as: are we in a special tax district (no, only businesses are in the special tax district); and do we have any control with the Tysons project (a Board member is a liaison to the project).

 

During the business portion of the meeting, the board appointed  Carole Folsom, Gay Haney and Margaret Woollen Inspectors of Election; Milton Brown, Ann Fourt and Marie Gallagher to the Election Committee; and Sandy Halminski, Thomas O’Linn and Margaret Woollen to the Finance and Insurance Committee. The Board also approved contracts for carpeting for building 10 redecoration; painting of elevator doors and frames; tile replacement for building 9 lobby; and removal of 17 trees badly damaged in the winter storms and in danger of falling. New trees will be planted later to replace those removed. The new Cox Cable agreement was tabled pending guidance from our counsel.

 

 
 

 

 


What's New Around the Colonies


There was a joyous celebration February 27 honoring Juan Guerrero’s 30 years of service with the Colonies. 
Two more Colonies staff will celebrate their 30 year mark in 2010.

 

Building 10 redecoration has begun and staff members are still busy cleaning up the plethora of downed branches and other debris left by the violent winter storms.  After the cleanup, comes the welcome spring spruce up and then planting of flowers.  We all are really looking forward to the warm weather this year. However, we need the cooperation of all residents in helping to make and keep the Colonies an attractive pleasant place to live. That means keeping noise levels down at night, picking up after your dog, disposing of trash including cigarette butts in appropriate containers, following all regulations and policies, and in general, genuinely trying to be a good neighbor.

 

Think warm weather everyone!!!!

 

WE GET LETTERS

 

A PLEA TO DOG OWNERS

 

Could the office please remind the residents of Bldg. 13 that the snow does not excuse
them from picking up after their dogs outside. There is dog feces everywhere—
even in the garage, where cars drive through it and track it everywherResident Bldg. 13      

 

This is the third time I have found dog feces in the hallway of Bldg. 7 on the 3rd floor.
The other day, when I came out of my unit, I almost stepped in a big pile of green dog feces in front of my door.
Tonight, when I came home, I was greeted by this just around the corner.
Whoever is letting their dog do this should a) have to go pick it up and b)
 let their dog poop in their condo so they can enjoy looking at it.

 

Resident Bldg. 7

 

To The Staff:

 

This evening we brought down a pot of chicken & rice soup for the snow crew….

Thanks for all of your help and please pass our gratitude on to the staff.

 PS: I’ve been down at Fairfax Hospital as a driver during the storm.
Someone there commented on the Colonies and our amazing roads.

 

Resident Bldg. 6

 

 

Thanks very much for the situation report and photos on how The Colonies is weathering the...weather.
I hope conditions will let up for awhile and permit spring to show its face early this year.

 Congratulations to the staff for its tenacity in keeping The Colonies alive.

 

A Colonies Co-owner (Bldg. 8) that lives in Thailand

 

STORAGE ROOMS

 

Residents utilizing their storage bin (located in the garage) are encouraged to inspect their storage room periodically to ensure that their items are “high and dry.” From time to time, (usually when residents are preparing to move out) we receive calls of property damage in the storage room. “Any Co-owner or resident at his sole risk and without liability or responsibility on the part of the Council of Co-owners may use his assigned storage space for its intended purpose. The Council shall not be liable for any loss, damage, or expense that may be suffered or sustained in connection therewith. Items stored in storage space must comply with county ordinances.”

 

All items placed in the storage bins should be on pallets and covered with plastic sheeting in the event the sprinklers go off or there is any water seepage or other water leak. If personal property damage occurs, please file a claim with your insurance carrier, as the Council is not liable for the loss, destruction, theft, or damage to such property.

 

Please do not place any items in the storage room aisles, as the items will be removed in compliance with county regulations. The staff will dispose of items removed.

 

 

 

NEIGHBORS REQUEST

 

Please don’t smoke directly outside your neighbor’s windows and please,
do not throw the butts on the ground.

Also do not slam doors.

 

 

.

BEAT THE RUSH

 

2010 Vehicle decals and facility pass stickers are now available
at the Administrative Office.

Stop by during office hours and be ready for the new season.

The 2009 stickers will be valid until May 31, 2010.

 

EVERY RESIDENT SHOULD KNOW


 

HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE DEDUCTIBLE

Reminder as of December 21, 2008 the Master Insurance deductible increased to $10,000 per claim.
If you have any questions please contact your insurance carrier or Baxter Griffith, Colonies State Farm

 

COMMON AREA HVAC
By Board directive, all common area-building thermostats set at 66 degrees for the winter.

 

CONSERVE ENERGY BY CHANGING YOUR HVAC  FILTER MONTHLY

Not changing filters regularly is the number one reason for furnace failure.
 The office sells four sizes of filters for $1.50 each.

 

 

.KEY FEES: Bldg/unit/clubhouse/storage/mailbox key copies are $3.00 each.

Elevator keys $100 each.

FREE EXTERMINATING: This service is offered FREE every Wednesday.
                       
Please call the office at 703-827-8388 to schedule an appointment.

 

  

 

WATER SENSORS—We have a new stock of water sensors, at the low cost of $18 battery included. Detect a leak early and avoid a deluge.
We have had third floor AC leaks that damaged the responsible unit, the units below and the garage. Thousands of dollars vs. $18?.

 

 

 

 

 

Classified Ads    March 2010

 

 

Employment Opportunities:

Census Takers        U.S. Census Bureau now hiring temporary census takers. No exp required.
$15-$20/hr, mileage reimbursed, flexible hrs, work near home.

Call locally 1-866-861-2010 or visit www.2010.census.gov/2010censusjops

 

For Rent:

1BD/1BTH,”P” model 1st fl. $1,155 per mo.
                    Call 703-356-3977(h) email Laurenskahn@verizon.net

2BD/2BTH,”G” model 1st fl. $1,400 per mo.
                    Call 1-561-833-3096.

2BD/2BTH,”J” model top fl. Corner $1,600 per mo.
                    Call Jason 202-256-4774 or email jmason@poboxjm.com.

2BB/2BTH,”K” model 1st fl $1,600 per mo.
                    Call 571-213-4989.

2BD/2BTH,”J” model top fl Corner $1,575 per mo.
                    Call 703-839-2934.

2BD/2BTH,”A” model 1st fl $1,650 per mo.
                    Call 703-403-6195 (leave message) or email mariesmailbag@gmail.com

3BD/2.5BTH, “W” model 1st fl. For more info
                    Call 703-759-3620 or email simardh@yahoo.com

For Sale:

2BD/2BTH,”J” model top fl. Corner $259,000-FSBO
                   Call Jason 202-256-4774 or email jmason@poboxjm.com.

3BD/2.5BTH, “W” model 1st fl. For more info call 703-759-3620 or email simardh@yahoo.com

 

                      

 Parking Space for Rent:

Snow & Ice are coming—Parking Space for rent in Bldg. 13 space #1 for $70 per mo.
Please call 703-356-3199.

 Items for sale:

 Papasan Chair—cushion is in mint cond. $30
          Please call Chris at 703-425-5627

 DR table & chairs, mattress, LR furniture: sofa, chairs, end tables & lamps.
         Please call Stuart at 571-437-2003.

 

 

 

 

 

 

                  Services Available

CHILD CARE PROVIDERI have a 4 year old girl and I can baby-sit for you part time or full time
                                             Call 703-448-6822 or 703-220-1767.


CHILD CARE PROVIDER
- Available to give excellent care in my home.
                                             Please call 703-918-9587.

PIANO LESSONSBeginner level lessons for Adults in The Colonies.
                          Please call 703-883-2272.

TUTORING—MATH for all ages, all levels through calculus & statistics by college instructor.
                 Also SAT preparation. Call
703-356-0765

 

 

 

 

                        IN-UNIT SERVICE FEE SCHEDULE

$30.00            ½ Charge per visit minimum

$45.00            Hourly charge per person.  Parts and Materials – at cost plus 25% mark-up

                        for handling. Special order/purchased for customer – i.e. decorative  faucets,

                        light fixtures, ceiling fans, doors, etc.:  Cost + 25% mark up + $15 travel fee.

$60.00            Minimum charge per emergency maintenance calls after office hours,

                       weekends and holidays.

The schedule may be amended by the Board at any time without prior notice to the Unit Owners.  All Unit Owners receiving services under this program (Administrative Resolution II-B-3, In-Unit Service) during a month will be billed for such services on the next assessment billing.  Payments are due and payable by the first day of the following month.  If payment is not received by the 10th day of the month when due it shall be deemed late and subject to the same penalties as delinquent assessments.  Renters requesting service will be told that a work order must be requested by the Unit Owner (or his property manager) unless there is written authorization, on file, from the unit owner which grants permission to the tenant to order service.

 

 

                       

 

 Administrative Office Hours

Monday - Friday 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM.

Closed Saturday, Sunday & Holidays.

* Office Phone (703) 827-8388

Office Fax (703) 893-2484

E-mail: colonies@erols.com

Web Page: www.thecolonies.com 

 

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY CONTACT SECURITY:  

(703) 790-8730 (This includes maintenance emergencies during non-office hours.)

 

 

 

 

BOARD OF DIRECTORS REGULAR MEETING:

 Wednesday, April 14, 2010, 7:00PM

 

 

 

Online Colonies Community

Welcome To "The Colonies Connection"

 

Looking for a way to easily communicate with your Colonies neighbors? A free internet Google group site has been created which allows Colonies residents to post information for all to see (non-commercial please). Similar to Craig’s list but on a much smaller scale. More information can be found on the group site.

To join The Colonies Connection for free, Click here    

                
or send an email to the
coloniesconnection@googlegroups.com                                                                                                                     

For questions, inquires, or help contact Dominic @ the above email or call 703-725-9306

Recycling Guidelines

                                                                                                 

                                                                                        

                                  

PERMITTED RECYCLABLE

Glass Bottles and Jars





#1 & #2 Plastic Bottles and Jugs






Mixed Paper
(Junk Mail, Newspaper inserts)

Metal Food and Beverage Cans
(Steel and Aluminum)

Newspaper, Telephone Books

              NOT PERMITTED

 
Dishes, pottery, light bulbs, Pyrex (TM)
  mirrors, drinking glasses, flower pots/vases,
  ceramics, food residue, lids.



#1 or #2 containers other than bottles or jugs,
#3-#7 plastics (the number is found inside the
"chasing arrows" imprinted on the bottom or
side of the container, caps and rings.

(NOTE: Remove rings only if safe to do so.)


Plastic bags.

Food residue, scrap metal, foil, pie tins.


Catalogues, magazines, cardboard boxes,
wax lining, food residue, tape, packing material
wax-coated cardboard.

 

Reminder: No items should be left outside the recycling bins.
        
                                          
Only newspapers may be left in the Trash Rooms;
                                                                no other recyclables there please!

 

 

Advertising Guidelines

 

Classified Ads

The Crier will print, as a public service, classified ads of 4 Classified lines or less at no cost
to residents or owners on a space available basis.  
Business ads are not included.

NOTE:  The Colonies reserves the right to edit free ads.

 

Display Ads

Display ad rates are as follows:

4 Classified lines $15 (Max 29 characters per line. $2 per additional line)
Business card (2 x 3 1/2) $35
1/4 of a page (4x3 1/2) $50
1/3 of a page (3x7) $60
1/2 page (4 1/2x7) $75
Full page $100

 

WEB PAGE ADVERTISING:  An additional $50 per month.

 

DISCOUNTS:  For 11 full, paid ads, a 12th one-the same size-will be run at no cost to advertiser.

 

SPECIFICATIONS/CONDITIONS:

Payment in full must accompany ad. Make check payable to The Colonies. Camera ready art to be provided by advertiser. No photocopies accepted. We do not assume responsibility for incorrect copy.

 

DEADLINE:  The third Friday of the month in which ad is to appear. Submit to The Colonies Administrative Office.

 

The Council of Co-owners assumes no financial responsibility for typographical errors or the quality of printing, but will reprint, without charge.

                                                          

 

                                                                      

                                                          

 

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