The DIRT - Doin' It Right Together!

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dirt


January 6, 2022

      

Sparklers

New Year, Same (Great) You

Love to create New Year's resolutions? Great! Not your thing? Also great! You are good enough as you are and don’t have to change or set goals if it doesn't serve you. Setting intentions can be a good way to start the new year:

  • Think about some of the things that you’d like to do more.
  • Are there things that you want to spend less time doing?
  • Commit to celebrating the small wins.

Read more about setting intentions in the Arlington Employee Assistance Program's (AEAP) e-newsletter.


Snow Removal

 

A big shout out to the Parks and Natural Resources Division staff who worked tirelessly to clear snow from sidewalks, driveways and other spaces this week. You are appreciated!


Turkey Bowl

Traditions Happen in Parks

Our 147 DPR-managed parks are vital spaces for our community to gather, get active and enjoy nature. They're also places where traditions are made. Check out this great DCist article that highlights the annual Halls Hill Turkey Bowl, as well as the neighborhood and its rich history. Former DPR employee Saundra Green is also featured. Photo credit: Tyrone Turner / DCist/WAMU


Missed the DPR Town Hall on Dec. 15? Check out the recording to hear updates from DPR Director Jane Rudolph.


RHP Court

 

Phase two of the Rosslyn Highlands Park+ project opened on Dec. 21 at 1579 Wilson Blvd. with a multi-use court, exercise equipment, grills, picnic tables, chess tables, hammocks, native trees and plantings. Learn more about the park here.


COVID-19 Community Heroes in DPR!

Congratulations to our Youth + Family team within the Community Resources Division for being nominated by the community for a COVID-19 Community Hero Award. From Rec @ Home to Programs in the Park and Art To Go Boxes, the Y+F team, along with staff from the Early Childhood, Teens, Therapeutic Rec and Community Arts units, went above and beyond to safely support our residents. The team will be recognized at the Jan. 25 recessed County Board meeting. Three cheers for our community heroes!


Volunteer

Nominate a Community Member for the Bill Thomas Award

Who better to nominate a volunteer dedicated to improving or maintaining parklands, natural resources, habitats and outdoor public spaces than our own DPR staff?! Learn more and submit nominations here by Feb. 4.


mlk

Annual MLK Tribute Goes Virtual

For the second year in a row, Arlington's annual tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. will be held virtually. Now in its 53rd year, the event features music, dance, spoken word and more to honor Dr. King's life and legacy. The 2022 tribute will be streamed on Sun., Jan. 16 at 5 p.m. on the Arlington TV YouTube page.


Consider joining an Employee Resource Group (ERG) in 2022! ERGs represent a variety of interests - from LGBTQ+ to the Black Employee Council and lots more - and provide a forum for Arlington County employees to learn, understand and support the growth of members through networking, programs, and activities. Learn more here.


good food

55+ Community Cookbook

Check out the awesome recipes submitted by Arlington community members and staff as part of the the 55+ Community Cookbook! From classic dishes like fruit salad to Frank n' Potato Pie, there's sure to be a dish to try in 2022. Special thanks to the team who helped put the cookbook together!


The next Employee Town Hall will be held on Thurs., Jan. 20 at 10 a.m. Submit questions in advance here and join the virtual meeting here.


covid vaccine

COVID-19 Reminders

A reminder that Feb. 1 is the deadline for Arlington County staff to be fully vaccinated. Read the vaccine policy for details and info on requesting a medical or religious accommodation. Visit AC Commons for additional information on COVID resources.


LinkedIn Learning is Here!

The new online training platform, LinkedIn Learning, is now available with on-demand classes. Visit the Learning Center and click on the EXPLORE Online Learning tab on the left to see a variety of classes to take when you have time. Check often for even more class offerings!


We can't wait to celebrate you at our annual DPR Staff Appreciation Event! While the event is typically held in the early part of the year, since it will be held outdoors in 2022, we're looking at early spring. It's not too late to help us plan! Email Laura Barragan if interested.


Patrick's Safety Corner

Winter Safety Tips for a New Year!

What a start to 2022 with so much winter weather. National Safety Council has terrific winter safety tips, including safely driving in the snow, ways to avoid shoveling and snowblowing injuries and tips on treating frostbite and preventing carbon monoxide. Stay safe out there!


We're Hiring! Check out the New Developmental and Customer Service Rep Positions!

Developmental (limited term):

Full-Time, Permanent:

Part-Time, Permanent:

Part-Time, Temporary:

Positions posting here tomorrow, Jan. 7:

  • Athletic & Facilities Services Division Chief
  • Facility Manager (developmental)
  • Management Analyst with the Administration and Strategic Development Team

HealthSmart Webinar

HealthSmart Virtual January Events

ArtSmart: Acrylic Paint Fun w/Community Arts
Create a serene landscape using acrylic paints Mon., Jan. 10, 2-3:15 p.m. Join here.

 

Supplies:

  • One 9”x12” canvas or cardboard
  • One set acrylic paints (black, white, basic yellow, red, green and blue) or Liquitex BASICS® Acrylic Set, 6 Pieces
  • One sheet aluminum foil for palette
  • One set various brushes, no more than 1” wide
  • Paper towels
  • Water cup

Nutrition Series: Six Weeks to a New You!
Whether you’re aiming to eat healthier, lose weight or simply learn more about the role food places in our daily lives, this is the program for you! Join on Jan. 12, 19 and 26 from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Add to calendar.

 

"Living Your Best Self" Webinar
A motivational lecture that encompasses ways to make healthier choices that lead to a healthier mind and body at home and in the workplace on Thurs., Jan. 13, 2-3 p.m. Sign up here.

 

Foundations of Fitness
Learn fundamental exercise movements to improve your form and enhance the benefits of your workouts on Wed., Jan. 19, 2-2:30 p.m. Sign up here.