4,000 Hours Marked On Special Day In Nation's History

"In his 2002 State of the Union address, President George W. Bush issued a challenge to all Americans to make time to help their neighbors, communities, and Nation through service. He called on each person to dedicate at least 4,000 hours – or two years – to service over the course of their lives. He created the USA Freedom Corps to help all Americans answer his call to service and help foster a culture of service, citizenship, and responsibility. "


This week, as we celebrate MLK Day National Call to Service and today with the inauguration of a new president, Neighbors Helping Neighbors would like to also congratulate Andrew Levy.

During this momentous time in our nation's history, he has reached the President's Call To Service of 4,000 hours, while volunteering during MLK Day and Inauguration.

Picture above being congratulated by American Red Cross' Celebrity Cabinet Member Leeza Gibbons (also from Entertainment Tonight and Leeza), in the Regional Disaster Coordination Center.

To get involved in community service and additional information on the President's Call To Service, please visit:

http://www.presidentialserviceawards.gov/

And to volunteer with the American Red Cross, please visit:

http://www.redcrossnca.org/

CapWin Not New To Inauguration

CapWIN plays a key role in interagency communication during inaugurations.

"IBM’s Capital Wireless Integrated Network (CapWIN) went online in June (2005). Housed at the University of Maryland s Center for Advanced Transportation Technology, it wirelessly transmits instant messaging, secure e-mail and images to as many as 10,000 users on their personal digital assistants or wireless notebook PCs. Meanwhile, Flarion’s 700 MHz broadband wireless trial in Washington DC sends voice, data and video from the field. Public Service WiFi Roaming is not an impossible dream. It’s reality."

Source: http://www.dailywireless.org/2005/01/27/capwin-becomes-self-aware/

To learn more about CapWin, request additional information.

Red Cross Regional Disaster Coordination Center (RDCC) Open House

The following message was released on Facebook. Please consider joining us for this open house to see the American Red Cross of the National Capital Area RDCC in action for inauguration.

"American Red Cross' Celebrity Cabinet Member Leeza Gibbons Visits National Capital Area

American Red Cross of the National Capital Area welcomes American Red Cross’ Celebrity Cabinet member Leeza Gibbons to the Chapter Headquarters’ Regional Disaster Coordination Center (RDCC) on Monday, January 19, 2009 between 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Please RSVP by sending an email to moringn@redcrossnca.org (Subject “RSVP”) by 10 a.m. Sunday, January 18, 2009.

For more information, go to our Events page or click on this link: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=43643917295#/event.php?eid=43643917295"

Who's Got You Covered During Inauguration?

Company will provide insulating blankets for Inaugural Parade participants.

Additional details can be found at:

http://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/Keeping-You-Covered-at-the-Inauguration.html

What to Know If You Go to Lincoln Memorial Concert

"Turnout for "We Are One: Opening Inaugural Celebration at the Lincoln Memorial" will be comparable to the city's July 4 fireworks show, D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty said."

For the complete "411 on the Opening Inaugural Celebration at the Lincoln Memorial" please visit the following news report:

http://www.nbcwashington.com/around_town/the_scene/What-to-Know-If-You-Go-to-Lincoln-Memorial-Concert.html

5 hours in advance. "Gates open at 9:30 a.m., and the program begins at 2:30 p.m. The concert is free to the public"

Guests and performers include:

Jack Black, Steve Carell, Rosario Dawson, Jamie Foxx, Tom Hanks, Ashley Judd, Martin Luther King III, Queen Latifah, Laura Linney, Kal Penn, Denzel Washington, Forest Whitaker, Tiger Woods, Beyonce, Mary J. Blige, Jon Bon Jovi, Garth Brooks, Sheryl Crow, Renee Fleming, Master Sgt. Caleb Green of the U.S. Army, Josh Groban, Herbie Hancock, Heather Headley, Bettye LaVette, John Legend, Jennifer Nettles, John Mellencamp, Pete Seeger, Shakira, Bruce Springsteen, James Taylor, U2, Usher, will.i.am, Stevie Wonder

American Red Cross of the National Capital Area Prepares Volunteers Deploying Into the National Mall Area

Readers and Contributors of Neighbors Helping Neighbors deployed by American Red Cross for Presidental Inauguration.

"Fairfax, Va. (Jan. 16, 2009) – American Red Cross of the National Capital Area prepares volunteers from all Red Cross chapters in the region – assigned to work in the National Mall area – to check-in on Mon., Jan. 19 beginning at 7 a.m. and deploying into Washington, DC on buses from the Montgomery and Fairfax County offices by 8 p.m.

A majority of the check-ins will take place at the Montgomery County office, 2020 East West Highway, Silver Spring, Md. Contact Red Cross Public Affairs Lead, Kim Covington (202-437-7348 or covingtonk@redcrossnca.org) for media assistance.

Volunteers will also be checking in at the Fairfax County office, 8550 Arlington Boulevard, Fairfax, Va. Contact Red Cross Public Affairs Lead, Kathy Thompson (240-375-9020 or
thompsonk@redcrossnca.org) for media assistance.

Many Red Cross volunteers have other assignments in locations throughout the region and will be checking in at the above offices throughout the day.

Red Cross Public Affairs Lead, Ryan Kaltenbaugh (703-609-7751 or rdkaltenbaugh@yahoo.com), will be on the scene working with Red Cross volunteers in the National Mall area.

More than 300 trained Red Cross volunteers will be on-hand and placed throughout the Washington, DC area providing assistance to local, state and federal authorities who are planning and coordinating the inaugural events.

Red Cross workers will be at mobile command posts working alongside DC government's command post on the National Mall. Red Cross is deploying over 30 two-person Red Cross Community Outreach "Go Teams" to provide public safety assistance throughout the National Mall area. Go Teams are trained in CPR and First Aid, and will communicate with first responders regarding assistance needed for those who may fall ill, become injured, people
who are negatively impacted by the cold temperature, and assist in locating aid stations. Go Teams will also assist with connecting lost persons by contacting local law enforcement to help locate families.

Red Cross inaugural services throughout the National Capital Region also include: mobile canteens with volunteers serving meals, snacks and drinks to fire and rescue workers, law enforcement and other first responders; volunteers stationed at the RFK Stadium Reception Center ready to provide assistance; a dozen Red Cross Liaison Officers located in Emergency Operations Centers (EOC) throughout the region; and also managing Red Cross Emergency
Response Vehicles (ERV) and three Red Cross Mobile Command Vehicles (MCV) positioned throughout the region.

During the inaugural events, the American Red Cross of the National Capital Area is leading the Red Cross efforts and is partnering with American Red Cross National Headquarters in assisting local, state, federal agencies and other organizations in this large-scale event.

For the Presidential Inauguration activities, the American Red Cross of the National Capital Area is leading and coordinating the involvement of the four other Red Cross chapters in the National Capital Region. The American Red Cross of the National Capital Area serves as the Regional Chapter for the American Red Cross in the National Capital Region, which consists of five Red Cross chapters in Alexandria, Arlington County, Loudoun County, Prince William and the National Capital Area, which includes District of Columbia, Montgomery County, Prince George’s
County and cities of Fairfax and Falls Church.

For more information, contact Public Affairs at the American Red Cross of the National Capital Area’s Regional Disaster Coordination Center (RDCC) Phone: 703-584-8775 Fax: 703-573-8587
Email: eisevents@redcrossnca.org Web: www.redcrossnca.org
# # #

American Red Cross of The National Capital Area Assists With The 2009 56th Presidential Inauguration

The American Red Cross of the National Capital Area has a very unique role in this community and country in that we partner with government agencies, non-profit partners and private organizations in supporting major events such as the inauguration. The DC Government requested the Red Cross' assistance to serve in a public safety capacity for the 2009 56th Presidential Inauguration. The Red Cross does not endorse political parties or candidates, however we maintain our mission in helping people regardless of their political, religious or cultural background. American Red Cross has a long-standing history partnering with public safety officials during large-scale events, and has been supporting presidential inaugurations since 1909.

For the Presidential Inauguration activities, the American Red Cross of the National Capital Area is leading and coordinating the involvement of the four other Red Cross chapters in the National Capital Region.

The American Red Cross of the National Capital Area serves as the Regional Chapter for the American Red Cross in the National Capital Region, which consists of five Red Cross chapters in Alexandria, Arlington County, Loudoun County, Prince William and the National Capital Area, which includes District of Columbia, Montgomery County, Prince George's County and cities of Fairfax and Falls Church.

Visit our website for the latest news, visitor resources and learn more about how the American Red Cross in the National Capital Region is assisting with the 2009 56th Presidential Inauguration: http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http://www.redcrossnca.org%2FEvents%2FInauguration.php

Northern Virginia - State of local emergency effective Jan. 17-21, 2009

The following local state of emergency starts tomorrow:

"Northern Virginia Regional Commission
NEWS RELEASE
January 15, 2009, 5:10 p.m.
In Preparation for Inauguration

Northern Virginia Local Governments Issue Pre-Emptive Emergency Declarations

Consistent with the actions of Virginia Gov. Timothy M. Kaine regarding preparations for th e presidential inauguration, the Northern Virginia local governments agreed today that each will declare a state of local emergency effective Jan. 17-21, 2009. The declarations will allow these governments to more easily get the resources needed to respond and recover from any potential emergencies related to the 56th presidential inauguration.

This action will allow the jurisdictions to be eligible for reimbursement for expenses of the presidential inauguration, which will bring an extraordinary number of people through Northern Virginia.

These unique circumstances, which have already resulted in an unprecedented requirement for inter-agency and inter-governmental coordination, warrant coordinated local government action to prevent or alleviate the threat of injury and harm to the public and damage or loss of property. Northern Virginia local governments have a long history of working cooperatively to prepare for disasters collaboratively across jurisdictional boundaries, bringing together elected officials, chief administrative officers, emergency management, law enforcement, fire and public health personnel.

Northern Virginia encompasses the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Manassas and Manassas Park and the counties of Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William and Stafford.

For more information, contact Merni Fitzgerald, Director of Public Affairs, Fairfax County, at 703-324-3189."

Source: http://alexandriava.gov/news_display.aspx?id=19008

Is the A in Arlington for Amazing? Help Where You Need It

Arlington, Virginia Government has an extensive website with resources to help you through challenges related to inauguration.

"Arlington is proud to be a part of this historic moment for our nation – and is focused on ensuring as many people as possible can get to Inaugural events safely."

The website can be found at:

http://www.arlingtonva.us/Portals/Topics/AboutArlington/page67655.aspx

Thank you to Volunteer Arlington for providing this information.

Some of the resources on the website include:

NEW! Print-and-go guides on how to get from your neighborhood to Inaugural events

And may more resources.

If you are living, staying, working, or in/around the Arlington area, it is essential you become aware of these valuable recourses.

211 Get Connected. Get Answers.

http://www.211virginia.org

Are you in town for inauguration but need information about the city? Include 211 VIRGINIA as part of your plan.

"2-1-1 is an easy to remember phone number connecting people with free information on available community services. When you dial 2-1-1, a trained professional listens to your situation and suggests sources of help using one of the largest databases of health and human services in Virginia.

2-1-1 VIRGINIA is a service of the Virginia Department of Social Services provided in partnership with the Council of Community Services, the Family Resource and Referral Center, CrisisLink, The Planning Council, the United Way of Central Virginia, and the United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg."

However, we discovered that some phones in Northern Virginia are getting messages to check the number "211" and please dial again.

After contacting 2-1-1 VIRGINIA through email, they provided the follow-up backup numbers that will work throughout the region. They are working to correct the problem.

Program Type 211 Centers, Information & Referral
Intake (703)752-5254
Toll Free (800)230-6977
Fax (703)516-6767
Web site http://www.crisislink.org/

Not Sure How Cold It Really Is?

If you are not sure how cold it really is and how often we get these temperatures and wind chills in the Washington DC area, checkout this news story.

Coldest Day in 5 Years!

http://www.nbcwashington.com/weather/stories/Brrrr--Coldest-Day-in-5-Years.html

"High temperatures will only be near 20 degrees, and some areas will be near 0 Saturday morning. "

Inauguration comes every 4 years, these temperatures are even less often!

How About A FREE Hot Coffee To Keep You Warm?

"What if you gave 5 hours to help your community?

What if we all did?

Your small commitment could add up to something BIG.

From January 21, 2009 through January 25, 2009, when you pledge 5 hours of volunteer time, Starbucks will salute you with a free Tall brewed cup of coffee in participating U.S. Starbucks stores.

Not valid at airports or Barnes & Noble locations.

YOU IN?

Visit http://pledge5.starbucks.com to learn more.

Not sure what to do with your 5 hours?

You could:
- support a local food bank
- provide skills to a nonprofit
- clean up your community
- walk or run for a cause
- mentor a child or teen
- help a local family in need" (Source: Facebook Event).

Death Of A President Caused By Inauguration Cold - A Look Back on Lessons Learned

As we look at the windchill factor in the Washington DC area this morning, it currently below zero.

We cannot stress enough, the impact weather can have on people. Even if you are dressed in layers, remember there are parts of your face that may be exposed for long periods of time.

Weather.com has compiled

25 things you didn't know about the Presidential Inauguration

Inauguration Weather Notification

For those who are starting to arrive in town for inauguration,

"A wind chill advisory remains in effect from 4 am to 12 pm est Friday. The coldest air of the season will move into the region tonight and Friday. Bitterly cold temperatures combined with northwest Winds of 10 to 20 mph with periodic gusts to 25 mph will produce Wind Chill values around 5 below zero late tonight and Friday Morning."

Our Concerns For Those With Special Needs

In the past two weeks, Neighbors Helping Neighbors raised concern on this website and multiple discussion groups in the Capital Region, about the limited information and resources available for those with special needs.

NBC Washington now reports, "Organizers warn people with disabilities to have backup plans".

The complete story can be found at:

http://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/Inauguration-Will-be-Accessible-Daunting-for-the-Disabled.html

For those that missed the news conference with the Governors of MD and VA and Mayor of DC, the one thing that was made clear is EVERYONE needs a plan. As mentioned during the press conference, this will not be a day a usual of packing up your family in the van to go to the Air and Space museum.

Volunteer Recognition - Can't Purchase This SIGNED Item In Stores

Are you looking for a unique way to recognize your volunteers?

Consider purchasing the

Barack Obama Inauguration Waterford Crystal Paperweight.

Available in dome (as pictured).

This item is not available on the Waterford website. Only a limited number of this item are being produced and have been shipped directly from Ireland.

This item is signed by Jim O'Leary, Waterford Design Director.

Jim began his four-decade career at Waterford Crystal as a cutter and rapidly attained Master Craftsman status. After a five-year stint in the Design Studio, he ascended to his current position as its director. Jim retains the skilled craftsman's dedication to the crystal arts, from blowing and cutting to sculpting and polishing.

Only a limited number of signed items are available.

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the American Red Cross.

For additional information, including pricing, please email neighborshelpingneighbors@live.com

What a great way to recognize your volunteers...

and have a piece of history!!!

As Predicted Only A Limited Number of People Will Fit Along The Parade Route

Millions of people are expected to be in downtown Washington DC to watch inauguration.

However, some may not be able to get past the security checkpoints, due to the limited number of people that can fit in the space.

"Washington Post reported that the parade route has a capacity of 280,000 to 300,000 people, and that once that number is reached, checkpoints will be closed and no one else can enter the area around the parade route."

It appears that the millions estimated to show up, might want to also consider alternatives, if they are unable to view the parade around the National Mall.

Do not to push people to make your way through the crowd.

The last thing we need is a stampede and riots.

And remember that "The purpose of this inauguration is to honor the incoming president with formal ceremonies".

For additional details, here is a local news report:

Officials May Turn Away People From Parade Route

Additional Opportuntities with Local Volunteer Centers

Looking to volunteer for inauguration and not already trained by the American Red Cross or do not have a CERT team in your community that is deploying?

There may be other volunteer opportunities. According to the Volunteer Fairfax website:

"Inauguration Volunteers Needed
Due to the large number of visitors expected, volunteers may be needed throughout the metro DC region. Please contact Marcelo Ferreira for information."

As trained members of the Volunteer Fairfax Volunteer Mobilization Leadership Team (VMLT) do not appear to have been contacted, additional information is not available.

For those that do not live or work in Fairfax County, we suggest that you contact the Volunteer Center in your community or a local religious organization.

Washington Post Article on Transporation Plan

The Washington Post article on the transportation plan is worth reading.

Here is part of the article:

"When Virginians learned that the U.S. Secret Service and other top officials had decided to bar personal vehicles from every bridge from the commonwealth into the District on Inauguration Day, many felt the underlying message to them was this: Drop dead.

Or: Stay home.

Or: If you're going to try to come and see the first African American sworn in as president of the United States, well, good luck."

The complete article can be found at:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/01/08/AR2009010803900.html?hpid%3Dtopnews&sub=AR

Congressmen Comment on Closing Virginia For Inauguration

NBC Washington is reporting:

"WASHINGTON -- Two members of Congress are asking the Secret Service to reconsider the plan to close all bridges crossing the Potomac River between northern Virginia and Washington on Inauguration Day.

Reps. Jim Moran and Gerry Connolly, who represent northern Virginia, say medical personnel and hospitality workers who are scheduled to work the day President-elect Barack Obama takes office should be able to use the bridges.

"The secret service, they're insane," Moran told the Washington Post. "This is security on steroids. They are imposing major obstacles on people who have a right to be there for the inauguration."

On Friday, Moran said "common sense" should be guiding the region's transportation policies, rather than "fear." He also said having only two bridges open to pedestrians is unacceptable.

The Secret Service announced the bridge closings Wednesday. In addition, about 3.5 square miles of downtown Washington will be closed to traffic starting the day before the inauguration.

D.C. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton said she is concerned about the traffic plan."

Source: http://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/Rep-Moran-Secret-Service-Is-Insane.html



This report appears to conflict with an earlier NBC Washington report on the transportation plan, that we featured in Attending Events During Inauguration Week - This Is A Must Read!

"Only authorized vehicles – emergency vehicles, buses, taxis and for-hire limos - will be permitted on I-395 North and I-66 East within the Beltway."

Many emergency personnel will be arriving into DC through their agency and/or will be housed within DC during the week.

In addition, emergency vehicles, personnel, and other support systems will be prepositioned.

It is our hope that emergency vehicles from outside the region who are NOT part of emergency procedures for inauguration DO NOT use these roads to get family and friends into DC. This will only cause more confusion and an improper use of emergency vehicles.