COMMUNIT-E
January 17, 2007
For July 1, 2008
up-dated
revision of Recommended Tradesmen click
here
For more COMMUNIT-E click
here
REVISED LIST OF RECOMMENDED
TRADESMEN
From: Bachman, Janet <[email protected]>
At the end of the newsletter is the revised list of our neighbors’
recommendations, current through December 2006.
[From KS - please let me know if you discover that
a tradesman is no longer in business.]
INTERIM TENLEY LIBRARY NOW OPEN
The new temporary library has a fair number of computers
as well as books, movies, recorded books, etc. It also has a
sizable children’s section.
It’s next to Apex Optical, close to Van Ness on Wisconsin
Avenue. It opens at 9:30 am every day but Sunday when it
opens at 1 pm. It closes at 5:30 and is open until 9 pm on
Monday and Wednesday. The address is 4200 Wisconsin
Avenue. The web address for DC libraries is www.dclibrary.org.
I find it useful to request books via the web or by phone and
then pick them up there.– KS
DC PEDESTRIAN MASTER PLAN WEBSITE AND SURVEY
From: catherine j wiss <[email protected]>
The District Department of Transportation is embarking on a
Pedestrian Master Plan to make the city safer and more walkable.
George Branyan, Pedestrian Program Coordinator for DDOT, is
asking residents to visit the project's web site at
www.tooledesign.com/projects/dc
to learn more about the Plan
and to complete a short pedestrian survey.
Cathy Wiss
Commissioner, ANC 3F06
COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD
**** PAINT CONTAINERS
From: Joe Pinder
I have quite a number of plastic yoghurt and other food
containers that I hate to throw away but would be excellent f
or re-use as parts containers or to mix tempera paints for
kindergartnere and pre-schoolers. They've all been through
the dishwasher. Please call me at 202/236.5597. Thanks.
**** SEEKING ROOM FOR RENT
From: Michael and Jennifer Rancilio
([email protected])
We are seeking a room to rent in the AU Park and
extended area. Our wonderful nanny (50+ female)
will be an equally wonderful tenant. She is VERY
responsible, trustworthy, meticulous and independent.
We would love to have her live with us, but do not have
the space. Please let us know if you have an available
vacancy - or if you're interested in renting your in-law
suite, etc. to the perfect tenant.
****MOM'S NIGHT OUT
From: Jen Rancilio [email protected]
Join the ANC-3E Moms' Club for a happy hour on Thursday,
February 1st at Bambule (5225 Wisconsin Avenue) from
7-9pm. Bring a friend and meet other moms in your 'hood!
Please RSVP to Jen at [email protected].
Also,
if you cannot attend the happy hour, but would like to be added
to our Yahoo! Moms' Club Group, please send me your email
address. Thank you!
**** RECOMMENDED ELECTRICIAN
From: Joanne Capper <[email protected]>
I recently used the services of Hubert Reid for electrical work.
Another
company told me I had water damage to my electrical panel and it needed
to
be replaced at a cost of $2,400. Mr. Reid cleaned off the wires for
only
$200 and everything is now working fine. He also did a number of other
repairs and installations, both inside and out, at a much lower rate
than
other estimates. He's a lovely man, was always prompt, did what he said
he'd do, and cleaned everything up. His number is 240-601-6945. Ask him
about his hot pepper sauce!
**** FREE DVD for DC Teachers
From: mccraecandace @[email protected]
District teachers can receive a FREE DVD of the recent global warming
documentary, "An Inconvenient Truth." Teachers may also download a
lesson plan. The District of Columbia signed the US Mayors' Climate
Change Agreement and is actively seeking ways to reduce the city's
contribution to global warming. We at the District Department of the
Environment (DDOE) encourage teachers to take advantage of this and
other teaching tools. For information on environmental educational
opportunities that DDOE offers, please contact
Gilda Allen at 202-535-2239 or [email protected]
**** CANOE TRAILER NEEDED
From: Frum Family <[email protected]>
Dear canoe lovers -
We are looking for a small trailer to tow our 80lb. wood & canvas
canoe, as
we are risking marital discord and back strain in getting it on &
off our
car. Does anyone want to sell one? Or have advice about a good kind to
get?
Thanks very much!
Jennifer & Austin Frum
**** HOUSECLEANER RECOMMENDATION
From: Carol Cameron <[email protected]>
A good, reliable, thorough, prompt domestic home cleaner
is working in the American University Park area and has an
opening for further clients. If interested, call Ozlem Keskin
at 703-470-8245, or email [email protected].
For reference, call Carol at 202-244-1181, or email
[email protected]
**** FREE SONY MONITORS
From: John Benoit <[email protected]>
TWO Sony Triniton CRT Monitors free to a good home (or homes). One
is a "Multiscan 17sf" 17 in. display about 12 years old. The other
is a "Multiscan G410" 19 in. display about 6 years old. They both
work fine; we moved up to LCDs. Come get them and they are yours.
Be warned, the big display is heavy (abt 56 lbs).
Jack 202 244-1040
**** WINDOW WASHER WANTED
From: Kimberly Stern <[email protected]>
Can anyone recommend a window cleaning company? I am
interested in having the outside of all my windows
power washed.
Thank you.
[Question from KS – How and why would you “power wash”
windows rather than just the usual washing method? I’d never heard
of doing this for windows.]
**** From: G. Richard Reed <[email protected]>
I have used a great general handyman, David Ochoa. He first
worked for me a couple years ago doing drywall in a bath and
Landry room extension. He did a superb job. The last couple
months we worked together repairing a stairwell ceiling from
water damage, tiled around the bath tub in a bathroom,
installed new lights and fans in two bathrooms, painted the two
bathrooms,
hallway and stairwell. His specialties are, finish carpentry,
plasterer,
painting, tile, basic plumbing and electricity, power washing, gutter
cleaning, deck treatment, just about anything.
He does beautiful work, reasonable rates, and has a pleasant demeanor.
Tell
him I recommended him. He can be reached on 703-451-1557, Cell:
202-409-6921
[email protected].
You can call me on 202-237-2599.
Thanks. Dick Reed
**** WANTS TO RENT
From: G. Richard Reed <[email protected]>
Female attorney, senior, long time resident of Friendship
Heights is seeking a studio, efficiency or small apartment
in Friendship Heights area. Must move from present
residence soon. Phone: 202-966-3187.
**** INTRODUCTION TO MEDITATION
From: [email protected]
An 8 week class to learn and practice some basic
meditation techniques.
Meditation is a tool that can help:
• Reduce stress and manage anxiety
• Quiet self-criticism and develop self-acceptance
• Facilitate transitions and change
• Clarify internal conflicts and reduce suffering
• Enhance ability to live in the moment
The focus of this course will primarily be on mindfulness
and vipassana meditation techniques. Each class will be
experiential with a chance to practice new skills each week.
Time: Thursdays 6:15-7:15 PM (New Day) Begins
March 1, 2007 (no class March 29)
Place: Tenleytown, DC. One block from the Metro.
Fee: $195; 8 hours
Optional Equipment: Bring a cushion or pillow for sitting.
Chairs available.
For More Information: Call Susan Drobis at 202-686-9005 or
SusanDrobis@aol
SOUNDING OFF — EXPERIENCES WITH HOME
REPAIR SERVICES
**** From: Michael Calingaert <[email protected]>
I may be in a state of denial about present-day realities, but I
find some charges levied by work at my house to be off the
charts. Two recent examples:
P. J. McTavish (roofer) charged me his minimum of $350,
calculated as two workers for two hours each, for a patch-up
job of the gutters. The minimum was not mentioned until the
bill was presented when the work had been completed;
Sanford Kramer (plumber, recommended in this newsletter
as having "reasonable prices") wanted $285 and $369 to clean
a shower and sink drain that were slow but not clogged.
I opted out.
Addendum: After my experience with Sanford Kramer, I went
back to B-CC Plumbing in Rockville (301-340-6361). This is a
one-man outfit - Wayne Cerniglia - who cleaned the shower and
sink drains for $125, compared to Sanford Kramer's estimate of $654.
Michael Calingaert
**** From: Victoria Elliott <[email protected]>
We called Sanford Kremer Plumbing to fix a toilet because we saw
them recommended in this forum. The technician couldn't -- or
wouldn't -- fix the problem -- he didn't even know the right names
for the parts of a toilet -- and instead made an aggressive sales
pitch for a new toilet, a $600 "rebuild", and a comprehensive
service contract for all our heating and plumbing. It cost us $59
for a service call just to get him to go away. Eventually John Flood
Plumbing fixed it for about $120, with a 10 year warranty.
ANIMALS IN THE ‘HOOD
**** ADOPT A WONDERFUL BLACK CAT
From: Valerie Ploumpis <[email protected]>
Sweet-tempered black female cat (a four-year old spayed cat with
all shots and perfect vet record) is looking for a loving home.
We got Yum Yum when she was a playful kitten but now the
children have near-zero interest in her. Litter box, whatever
left-over food we have, toys, brush etc. are included!
**** THANK YOU
From: [email protected]
I want to say Thank you for all the neighbors who came to my
home for the Homeward Trails Animal Rescue benefit. With
your help and the donations of local businesss we raised around
$2000.00. It was nice to meet so many people in the area who
care about these dogs and cats who often are not as lucky as
the ones that are part of our families. If you find yourself
looking to add a furry member to your family please contact
me and I will help find that perfect match through our
adoption or foster to adopt program.
Again thanks for your participation and I look forward
to doing it again next year.
Lori Rolnick
**** OTHER ANIMALS
---- From: carolynsherman2 <[email protected]>
The other night a possum came in through our dog door and curled up
and fell asleep in the corner of our sofa. He may have been asleep for
hours when I saw him. I wasn't sure what it was but he was fast asleep
and breathing heavily. Our two dogs didn't even notice him. I called
animal control and they came in about half an hour with a cage, picked
him up by the tail, put him in, and said they were going to release
him in Rock Creek Park. It was a weird experience seeing this wild
animal completely conked out in the family room sofa.
----- From: Stephanie Faul @ [email protected]
Just a few minutes ago I saw a red fox trot across Belt Road in broad
daylight. He was quite at ease and seemed to know where he was going.
It was quite fascinating. However, if y'all have cats that go outdoors
I
strongly suggest you bring them inside, especially at night.
----- From: Mandrake @ [email protected]
I think this may have been the same fox I saw at noon on Friday on
Belt Road then a few minutes later dart across Western Avenue, pounce
on a squirrel and proceed to munch down in the middle of the yard. He
seemed very unafraid of people and traffic (I slowed down to a crawl
and paced him as he trotted along the sidewalk) in the area and my
first thought was "rabies" in an animal behaving so oddly but he took
off over to Maryland so I didn't call animal control, not really
knowing what I would say about where it was.
---- From: John @ [email protected]
Foxes are normally nocturnal animals. If you see one in the middle
of the day, stay away from it. For that matter, same with raccoons.
---- From: [email protected]
Yes, they are nocturnal, do hunt at night primarily, do most of their
hunting then when they have the advantage ..... but not always. They
do also roam in the day if they are comfortable with their territory. I
have seen them crossing farm fields many many times, feeling quite
at home because they were. . . .The chances are pretty good that these
daytime foxes are just fine. Wasn't one even seen hunting and catching
a
squirrel? The author had wondered if it had rabies, being out in the
daylight
like that. Not to worry. The fact that it ate its catch is evident that
the fox
is healthy and happy. The reason why rabid animals drool is because the
rabies
paralyzes the throat, making it increasingly impossible to swallow.
Their
brains deteriorate while they starve and get dehydrated. More important
to point
out here is that you want to keep your distance primarily because the
fox
IS wild, pretty and confident as it may be. It has teeth. It will
indeed bite.
It does not know you nor recognize you as Friend rather than Foe. So
let it
go about its business, from its comfort-zone distance, and stamp your
feet
like a larger, more aggressive animal if it steers towards you and
disrupts
YOUR comfort zone.
Melissa E. Haendler
(Tenley-Chevy Chase dweller & former vet. tech)
ART AND MUSIC IN THE ‘HOOD
**** From: Ron Leve <[email protected]>
FESSENDEN ENSEMBLE – CHAMBER MUSIC
While there are quite a few organizations that put on a
series of concerts by visiting artists or groups, there aren't
to my knowledge that many locally constituted music
groups that put on their own series.
That's why I want to let you know about the Fessenden
Ensemble that presents a series of chamber music concerts
at St. Columba's Episcopal Church in Tenleytown on a
Tuesday evening nearly every month during the concert year.
The group consists of a dozen or so fine musicians who are
also part of other major local performing arts groups. Over
the year, you'll hear them in configurations ranging from solo
to nonets. They are especially strong in the winds which
happens to be a favorite section of mine.
You can find out more about the group at its website
http://www.fessendenensemble.org/
where you'll also read
blurbs of praise from local reviewers such as the Post's
Cecilia Porter who said "one of the finest chamber music
groups in the Washington area".
Ron Leve
**** From: [email protected]
CLASSICAL MUSIC IN THE HOOD
The Trinity Chamber Orchestra of Washington
Richard Fazio, Music Director and Conductor
A Musical Celebration at our new home
St. Ann’s Church, Washington DC
4001 Yuma St. NW (at Tenley Circle)
Sunday, January 21st, 2007 at 3:00PM
Program:
- Gaetano Donizetti, Overture to Don Pasqualle
- Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Concerto No.5 forr Violin
and Orchestra, Diana L. Sundsvold, Violin
- Gabriel Fauré, Masques et Bergamasqques
- Johannes Brahms, Variations on a Theme of Haydn
Because of our new location at St. Ann's, all tickets
will be in the form of a donation, $15.00 in advance
and $20.00 at the door.
Call 301•926•0936 or visit us at
www.trinitychamberorchestra.org
**** ARTS WEEKEND JANUARY 20-21
From: Shirley Moyer <[email protected]>
The Metropolitan Memorial United Methodist Church,
3401 Nebraska Avenue, NW in Washington, DC is
celebrating an Arts Week-End on January 20-21.
Saturday, January 20 - 8 pm - A reading of Educating Rita
by Willy Russell - $25. dessert reception 202-244-3512
********
Sunday, January 21 - Concert & Art Exhibit Opening
4 pm - John Touchton and Virginia Lums present a 1-piano,
4-hands concert. The concert will include works by Bach,
Rossini, Brahms, Schubert, and Handel. Free-will offering.
202-363-4900
5 pm - 6:30 pm - Reception and opening art exhibit - Mystical
Prints from a Personal Mythology by Mr. Percy Martin will follow
immediately at the conclusion of the concert. Exhibit will run
through February 18, 2007. Hours: M-F 9am-5pm; Sundays
9am-12:30 pm. 202-363-4900.
Sunday, January 21 - 7:30 pm - Bokamoso Youth Theater from
Pretoria, South Africa, presents a free performance of A Tree
Must Learn to Bend. Reception follows performance. 301-365-5205.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON OUTSIDE
CELLAR DRAINS – In response to previous question.
From: Jim Greene <[email protected]>
Not sure what you mean by “the trap has collapsed” but here is my
two cents:
Many if not most of our neighborhood was built with no floor
drains inside the basement. The basement floors were sloped to
the rear, with an outside floor drain at the bottom of basement
stairs or outside a walkout basement exit door, or, as in our
case, outside what was the door to an under-the-house garage
originally served by a driveway sloping down from the alley.
In the June ’06 excessive rainfall, ours did not back up but our
neighbor’s did. When she had her cleaned out, we had ours done
as well for the first time in 25 years. We had at least 2 feet of
accumulated sludge in the bottom of the pit. That was removed
(a very smelly and messy job!!) and a snake was used to be sure
the drain line was clean.
In our setup, there is a cover with holes in it into which water
runs. Next to that is a metal cover about 2 ‘ by 2’ feet which
covers a pit about 4 – 5’ deep.
The company that did the work told us that there is a drain line
from the pit which runs under the house. The line joins to all
the house drains (kitchen, laundry and bathrooms) and then goes
out to the sewer line deep under the street.
The people who do this sort of clean out work are listed under
“sewer cleaning” or “drain cleaning” I do not remember who
did ours – he was called in by a contractor hired by my neighbor
and may have been moonlighting.
Hope this is useful.
Jim Greene.
TAX INFORMATION FOR SMALL EXEMPT ORGANIZATIONS
From: Kathryn Ray and Dennis Beaufort <[email protected]>
This came from American Library Association. It might affect
neighborhood and community volunteer organizations like Friends
Groups:
The Pension Protection Act of 2006 included a new requirement
affecting small exempt organizations.
In general, tax-exempt organizations are not required to file Form 990
if their gross receipts are less than $25,000 in a fiscal year.
These small exempt organizations will now be required to file an
"annual notice" with the IRS containing basic contact and financial
information. Failure to file a notice will result in loss of exempt
status.
The notice requirement is effective for fiscal years beginning after
2006.
This new requirement will impact organizations with small affiliates,
such as state councils, chapters, or separately incorporated divisions
special interest groups. Even if these small affiliates are covered
by a group exemption, they will be required to individually file the
annual notice with the IRS.
The IRS has not yet published a copy of the annual notice form which
would be required.
The earliest date on which the filing will be required will be
sometime after December 31, 2007. Small exempt organizations should be
aware of this new requirement, however, so that they can be prepared to
report financial information to the IRS at the end of the year.
Paula Cozzi Goedert
Barnes & Thornburg LLP
1 North Wacker Drive
Suite 4400
Chicago, IL 60606
HISTORIC TRANSPORTATION PHOTOS
From: Linden, Erik (DDOT) <[email protected]>
Images Trace History of City Streets in All Four Quadrants
(Washington, DC) The District Department of Transportation
(DDOT) has posted 25 historic photographs on the DDOT Web
site, www.ddot.dc.gov.
The people, buildings, street signs,
cars, streets, highways, trucks, streetcars, traffic patterns and
street lights are captured as they were in the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s.
To see the Archival Historic Photos, go to www.ddot.dc.gov
,
click on "Transportation Planning & Research," and click
on Historical Photo Archives
Residents interested in more information or interested in
contributing information on this project please contact:
William P. Carr, at [email protected] or (202)
671-1371.
PRODUCTS & SERVICES:
YOUR NEIGHBORS’ RECOMMENDATIONS
This is a listing of the comments sent to COMMUNIT-E by residents of
Friendship Heights and Tenleytown/AU Park about the vendors of products
and services with whom they’ve had personal experience. The resident’s
contact information is shown at the end their comments. It’s organized
alphabetically by categories of products or services. Below is an index
of the categories and the pages on which the entries for each category
begin. Additions are welcomed, as are suggestions of how the list can
be made more useful.
Please note that inclusion in this list is no guarantee that a vendor
will perform well for you, nor that there’s anything wrong with a
vendor that is not listed.
INDEX – WHERE TO FIND
Architects - 2 Elder Services - 11 Music Teachers - 21
Auto Body Repairs - 2 Electricians - 11 Painters - 22
Auto Dealers - 2 Electronics’ Services - 12 Pest Control Services - 23
Auto Mechanics - 2 Engineers - 12 Pet Services- 24
Babysitters - 3 Firewood - 12 Piano Teachers - 25
Bicycle Repairs - 4 Floor Refinishers - 12 Picture Framers - 25
Book Donations - 4 Furniture Refinishers – 13 Plasterers - 25
Cabinet Makers - 5 Graphic Designers - 13 Plumbers - 25
Carpenters - 5 Gutter Cleaning - 13 Power Wash. & Deck Clean. - 26
Carpet Cleaners - 5 Handymen - 14 Referral Services - 26
Caterers - 6 Heating & A/C - 15 Roofers - 27
Childbirth Classes - 6 Housekeepers - 16 Security Services - 28
Chimney Sweeps & Duct Cleaning - 6 Interior Designers &
Decorators - 17 Snow Shoveling - 28
Computer Repairs, Help & Recycling – 7 Jewelry & Watch
Repairers – 17 Tailors & Seamstresses - 28
Concrete – Paving - 8 Kitchen Remodeling – 17 Tree Services - 29
Construction - 9 Lawn & Yard Services – 18 Tutors - 29
Dentists - 10 Locksmiths – 19 Upholsters - 29
Doctors (OB/GYN) - 10 Lost Pets – 20 Wet Basements - 29
Doors -10 Masons – 20 Window Repair & Replacement - 30
Driving Instructors- 11 Movers - 21 Window Washers - 30
ARCHITECTS –
AU Park has two superb architects, and I know them both personally and
by professional reputation. Either one could do wonderful work for you.
They are: Brenda Pfeiffer 202-363-9217 and Bill Feeney 202-537-0397.
John Mahaffie [email protected] –
August 2004
Yes, Bill Feeney is indeed excellent and I would add another AU Park
resident: Chris Brown on 202-362-5214. [email protected]
- August 2004
I would highly recommend Bill Feeney --- an AU Park resident (45th
& Chesapeake Streets) and fabulous guy! I have used him for two
projects (one really major one) and he is great to work with. I have
also recommended him to many other people in the area. He can be
reached at 202-537-0397. [email protected] 2003
AUTO BODY REPAIR –
Kevin Lee was one of the Managers of Randolph Auto Body & Paint,
5411 Randolph Road; Rockville, Md. 20852 who did a superior job
repairing my Volks Jetta when I was rear-ended on the way home from
work sitting at a stop sign at the intersection of 37th and Tunlaw;
there is an EZ Car Rental establishment on the same premises, (Jung Ju,
301-230-1870) with low and reasonable rates and even free pick-up like
Enterprise, which made it very convenient; and those of you out there
who panic at going " way out to the suburbs" his directions were
concise and flawless! Email address: [email protected]
Paull
Sargent [email protected] April
2005
AUTO DEALERS –
If you are considering purchasing a Prius, I recommend Mr. Tony Carr
(yes, his real name!) at Darcars Toyota, 12210 Cherry Hill Road in
Silver Spring. Our friends bought 2 Prius from him and we purchased
ours in July. He is a friendly and accommodating and there was no
"additional dealer markup." They had several Prius on the lot (all with
the most expensive features.) He will order the car to your
specifications if you do not want the extra bells & whistles. On
our first tank of gas, we averaged 45 miles per gallon. That included
driving around town and a trip to Richmond. The car is amazingly roomy
and very easy to drive. Kathryn Ray & Dennis Beaufort [email protected]
August 2005
AUTO MECHANICS –
And last, but by no means least, an excellent auto mechanic ( Gtn.
Exxon, 1601 Wisconsin Ave., NW (corner of Wisconsin and Q Street) named
Tom who is a great" diagnoser"; Manager: Mo; Counterman: Mohammed; a
little pricey, but well worth it in the long run. Paull Sargent [email protected]
April 2005
I have found the guys (particularly Steve, who is now the manager) at
the Spring Valley Exxon to be very good, reasonably priced and honest.
And, very
convenient! Can't ask for more! [email protected] 2003
If you drive a non-hybrid Toyota, we recommend having it serviced at
Charles Toyota. It's near a metro & we always received excellent
service. Kathryn Ray & Dennis Beaufort [email protected]
August 2005
I highly recommend the guys at Spring Valley Exxon. They are all
terrific - Steve and Eddie are the ones that do a lot of the major
stuff -- and I think their prices are fair. I have taken all three of
my cars (1985 Toyota Celica (my baby), 1995 Geo and 1999 Audi) and get
excellent service on all. Beth Kravetz [email protected]
Oct. 2006
I've always used "Golden Gears" out in Rockville. The owner "Sam" has
been extremely honest with me. They have pick-up service at the White
Flint Metro Stop. Richard Clark [email protected] Oct. 2006
I can highly recommend an auto repair shop close by, which is also
recommended by Washington Checkbook: Bethesda Imports - off River Rd,
just past Little Falls Parkway, on the left: 301- 656-0056. They are
very honest & reliable. Mike Cunningham is the owner, & Wayne
also makes appointments & answers
questions. They are equipped to work on Volvos & Toyotas, mostly,
with
Volvos being their specialty. [email protected]
Oct. 2006
I heartily second this recommendation (Bethesda Imports). I've been a
customer for about 15 years and have referred dozens of people to Mike,
all of whom have been satisfied customers. He runs a super honest and
reliable shop. He also sells used Volvos and offers roundtrip service
to and from the subway. Anna Cirino [email protected] Oct. 2006
I use the Getty station on River Road - Manager is Bob. I take my car
there and have always been satisfied. Mention my name. Joe Corvelli,
American Valet,
4519 Wisconsin Ave. [email protected] Oct. 2006
BABYSITTERS –
If you need a Babysitter Monday-Thursday for an evening out call my
former co-worker at 301-996-5854. She lives in Bethesda and would like
to earn some
extra cash. She is a former High School Counselor and is wonderful with
children. She charges $10.00 per hour. Available time is after 5:30pm.
Jennifer
Rose [email protected] 2003
If people are looking for a weekend babysitter, I can recommend my
daughter, Noel Healy. She is 17, a junior in high school, and polite
and reliable. She is not in the same category as the high school
counselor, but your children will be safe with her. You can reach her
at 202-966-4252. Anne Chase [email protected] 2003
Need a babysitter? Call Susana Figueroa at (301) 552-4620 (between
6pm-10pm). Or email, [email protected].
Susana has her own car and is bilingual (English-Spanish). Elissa Blake
Free [email protected] 2003
If anyone is looking for childcare, my terrific nanny will soon be
available Tuesdays, Thursdays and some Fridays. She's legal, speaks
perfect English, very energetic and nurturing, but does not drive. If
interested, please call
me, Maren Siegel, at (202)362-9926 or e-mail me at [email protected].
Maren Handler Siegel [email protected] 2003
This young woman, Jordan Kime, has babysat for us and is lovely. Recent
Tulane graduate available for babysitting late afternoons and evenings
during the week and anytime on weekends; have own transportation;
references
available. Please call (202) 277-2339. [email protected]
2003
A 1-year-old girl wants to share her exceptional full-time, 5 days a
week nanny. Friendship Heights area. Call Kevin or Katy at (301)
654-1841. Katherine Scott [email protected] 2003
Our excellent housekeeper has extra time for your house. She is English
speaking, unfailingly pleasant, and has been willing to do whatever
extra
duties we asked. You may call Marlucia Chaves directly, 301-933-2893,
or
me, Susan Beale, at 202-363-0976. [email protected] 2003
We have a wonderful nanny, Rosell, who has been taking care of our two
children since they were 6 months and 21 months old. The youngest will
be
entering kindergarten this fall, so we are looking for a family who
would
like to have her baby-sit part-time, preferably at least two mornings
per
week before she comes to our house after school at 3:00. She is
available
as early as July, but is also willing to start in September after
school
begins. We absolutely cannot say enough about Rosell – she is fabulous
with
children! If you are interested, please contact us at (202) 364-1035.
Bethany
Nickerson [email protected] June 2005
Sonia Alvarez, our lovely, lovely nanny and housekeeper of 8 years is
now available since we moved to India recently. She has taken care of
both of our boys since their births (they are now 8 and 4), she ensured
them a far healthier diet than we would, allowed them far less TV than
we would, and organized play groups, bike rides, playground visits and
so forth. She is a warm, loving and intelligent woman who worked as a
nurse in Nicaragua before
she came to the US. In addition, she kept our house immaculate. Her
spoken
English is limited but as a result my kids are fluent Spanish speakers
and
she does not drive. She is reachable on (301) 567-4870 (home); (240)
432-1411
(cell). We and our kids miss her terribly! Please feel free to email me
for references [email protected],
or you
can call me in Delhi (10.5 hours ahead) at 91-98991-02067. Mohini
Malhotra January 2006
I would like to highly recommend Josephina Lorenzo for childcare or
eldercare. She has been a companion and aid to my elderly, disabled
mother for two years
and she is wonderfully compassionate, kind and devoted. She has also
worked
in a pre-school and has a certificate in child development. As my
mother’s
constant companion, she drove, helped with shopping, ran errands, did
the
laundry, light cooking oversaw medications and did whatever it took to
keep
my mother safe and satisfied (and it took a lot). She speaks English
well
and is legal. She can be reached at 301-466-4362. I will gladly provide
references
if you contact me by email at [email protected].
Marla Mitnick [email protected]
February 2006
Narti Suwadi, who I consider part of my family, is seeking a full time
job as a nanny. Over the past ten years she has worked for my family as
a nanny, then kid sitter, and then provided eldercare as our needs
changed.
She is one of those elite nannies who have worked for several prominent
Washington families (and for a few of us who are not so prominent).
It’s
hard to put into words how good she really is. She has a gift with
children,
excellent judgment and is driven to make her families completely happy.
I could go on and on, and will gladly do so if you would like to
contact
me for a reference. Narti can be reached at 301-681-6486 or
301-792-0572.
The other thing I should add is that with Narti you get what you pay
for
and she commands a top salary. Marla Mitnick [email protected]
March 2006
BICYCLE REPAIR –
I've had very good experiences with Hudson Trail Outfitters on
Wisconsin Avenue for bike repairs -- several different times. Kathy
Smith [email protected]
2005
The Pro Shop on M Street, near Key Bridge has an excellent mechanic --
Courtney. One of the best mechanics in the area, he does most of the
instructors’ repairs that we cannot do in MPD. Another shop -
Revolutions, just a few doors down, has excellent service, has always
been helpful. There are other shops in DC but these are in 2D. Sgt.
Mike Wear
It's a little farther afield, but I had a terrific experience at
Performance bikes in Rockville's Congressional Plaza. It's large,
clean, easy to get to/park near, and handles everything. I recently
took my bike in after several years in the outdoor shed, expecting a
"tune-up" bill of $75+. The shop had
it for 30 minutes, declared that all it needed was cleaning, oiling and
some air, all of which are provided as free services, so they went
ahead and did it. Big Wheel Bikes in Bethesda quoted me either $49, $69
or more depending on what I needed. So I'd recommend Performance. (I
only went there originally because they are Thule dealers and I needed
a rack.) Rick Dulaney [email protected] 2005
I am an avid cyclist who maintains several bicycles and has periodic
repair and upgrade work. I highly recommend Dale Murphy of Dale's Cycle
Works, www.dalescycleworks.com,
301-529-0945. Dale has a van and comes to your house to do the work,
which
is a great convenience. He has done a lot of work for years for DC
cycling
enthusiasts, both on his own and in his previous incarnation as head
mechanic
at The Bicycle Place in Bethesda before that shop closed. He's great.
Kaid
Benfield [email protected]
BOOK DONATIONS –
To the person who has used books to give away: Stone Ridge School next
to Naval Medical takes donations all year. You can leave them off at
any time. Vassar used to have a place but I'm not sure if they still
do. So did Bryn Mawr. [email protected] 2005
Bryn Mawr accepts book donations at the Lantern in Georgetown: http://www.his.com/~lantern/
[email protected]
2005
The Montgomery Shelter has a thrift shop near the shelter which
benefits the shelter. It's a ways to drive but they take anything and
welcome books. It's called Wagging Tails Thrifts, 301-279-0345. Open
Tues. - Sat., 10 - 4.00. I must warn you that every time I go there I
end up buying stuff! Barbara
Harrison [email protected] 2005
Books for America, 2800 Quebec St. NW, Suite 744, Washington, DC 20008.
202-364-9737 or [email protected].
This is an excellent non-profit organization that collects books and
distributes them to hospitals, shelters, etc. They will pick up the
books at your home. Janet Bachman [email protected]. 2005
CABINET MAKERS –
Jeff Seeley at 363-4151 or 882-8001. He is not a general carpenter. He
makes cabinets, bookcases, and other items requiring the skills of a
master
craftsman. He doesn't take on repairs, fences, etc. July 2005
Try Jeff Wentworth. (202) 841-6613. He is a master carpenter/cabinet
maker. He is working for me this week. Chris Turner (202) 462-8800 [email protected]
April 2005
My husband and I have used two people found through your newsletter --
cabinet maker Geoff Seeley and gardener Serena Fossi -- and have been
thrilled
with the work of both. Thank you again, for making these referrals
possible. [email protected]
Sept. 2005
From KS – Geoff Seeley made a small cabinet for me. I was very pleased.
I would also recommend Pat Turvey for more general carpenter jobs.
I recommend Jeff Seeley. He is a master cabinet maker who lives in the
'Hood and did a beautiful job for me. It was a small job which most
people
would not bother with and his rates were very reasonable. His phone #
is
363-4151. Kathy Smith [email protected]
December 2006
CARPENTERS –
Carpenter Dusan Bucany at 301-933-0203. Laura Roth [email protected]
Don't forget my excellent carpenter Jaime Barrera who built a deck for
me, did major repairs on house roof and numerous smaller jobs. His cell
phone is: 301-509-2675 Susan Ellis [email protected] July 2005
I highly recommend the Stripping Workshop, 411 New York Avenue, NE, WDC
20002. (202) 544-1470. About 8 years ago I purchased what may have been
used as a basement cabinet from Good Eye and had it delivered to the NY
Avenue address. The cabinet was covered in that putrid green basement
paint
from decades ago. They stripped and refinished the item in what seemed
to
be a protracted process. For the doors, which have 33 panes of glass,
they
replaced missing glass panes (2 or 3) with antique glass that was being
discarded from a Georgetown church that they were in the process of
refinishing
(I love there sense of recycling). They added a plinth and installed
trim
on the top of the cabinet. The cabinet was delivered to my house soon
after
the arrival of the twins. The owner apologized for the delay in
delivery.
However, I thought it was well worth the wait and admitted it to Reed
at
the time -- I never regretted his diligent attention to my project. He
went
on to explain that the cabinet was made of two woods, pine and, if I
recall
correctly, beech -- a diamond in the rough had now been polished. The
cabinet
has been on prominent display in my dining room, and the signature
piece
in my house, ever since. I just called to verify that they are still in
business; they are flourishing. You should speak to Bob Reed and ask
about
the cold bath process that he uses so that there is no lye damage to
the
wood. Corinne Douglas [email protected] Oct. 2006
CARPET CLEANERS –
Last year, I recommended Bruce Johnson, owner of Banner Carpet
Cleaning, as an excellent carpet cleaner. Quite a few neighbors and
friends have used his service and have been very satisfied. His prices
are competitive
and he is honest and very hard-working; even does the work himself!
Bruce
is a Captain in the DC Fire Department (Tenleytown Firehouse) and has
run
his own carpet cleaning business for several years. (Great for
orientals
too.) Try him for your spring cleaning! Banner Carpet Cleaning
301-353-1217
Amy McVey [email protected]
Prompted by the reviews in Communit-E, I just hired Bruce Johnson and
his wife Banner to clean all the upholstered furniture in my house, and
a rug. They did a splendid job. I underscore the rave reviews Johnson
and Banner have received from Communit-e subscribers. The phone # is
301-353-1217. Lois
J. Schiffer [email protected]
July 2004
I would like to make a commendation/recommendation. Banner Carpet &
Upholstering Cleaning, owner/operator Bruce Johnson and wife Sue, are
OUTSTANDING.
I have recommended them to my clients with great success, have just
used
their services in our own house and was very pleased with the results.
They
are way above other cleaners and use excellent products! [email protected]
April 2004
I will DITTO Ms. Wilkerson's recommendation of the unbeatable service
of BANNER CARPET! Bruce is a retired Captain from the Tenley Firehouse
who has for many years been running his own carpet cleaning business. I
cannot recommend them highly enough since I have tried many other
services and his
is much better in thoroughness and professionalism. Bruce Johnson can
be
reached at 301-353-1217. [email protected] May 2004
So Fresh Carpet Cleaning. 202-575-0508. Cleaned up after a flood. Aug.
2004.
Minkoff Recovery Co. on River Road. Disaster Recovery after floods,
fires, etc. Aug. 2004.
CATERERS –
Jerry Hollinger of Jerry's catering. His number is 387-7531. Jennifer
Rose [email protected]
I'd like to recommend: Caterer, chef and home decor seamstress: Marla
Gooriah. A fabulous cook who has catered several parties for me - very
creative cuisine, generally with a multi-ethnic flair. Also is a great
seamstress of decorative window treatments, tablecloths, pillows, etc.
Very reasonable. (703) 354-7957 Joanne Capper [email protected]
CHILDBIRTH CLASSES –
Karen van Loon's Birth Works class. She teaches here in Friendship
Heights and can be reached at [email protected] or 686 6463. [email protected]
CHIMNEY SWEEPS & DUCT CLEANING –
WINSTON's - They are excellent, honest, and fair prices. We were
completely ripped off by some company - told us we needed $8,000 (!!!!)
in repairs before
we could use the fireplace. Winston's gave us 2nd opinion and they
found
a Styrofoam block wedged in the flue and the damper literally ripped up
and hanging from a hinge - obviously deliberately done by the previous
chimney
sweep company that wanted the $8000. Winstons's repaired and cleaned
for
a very reasonable amount. We use them as sweeps every year and they
always
are prompt and clean up completely after themselves. Highly
recommended. Katherine Mitchell [email protected]
September 2004
I have used Winston's Chimney Service in the past. In the Dupont Circle
area they regularly get the nod from homeowners in the know. I'd
recommend
them without reservation. I know nothing of chimney business but
wouldn't
be surprised if it takes a while to get on their schedule at this time
of
year. Winston's Chimney Service, 4212R Howard Avenue, Kensington, MD,
301-571-8546. Sara Cormeny [email protected]
Winston's Chimney Restoration and Service, 4212-R Howard Avenue,
Kensington, MD 20895; Phone: 301 571-8546; www.atwinstonschimney.com [email protected]
Matthew
Huggins @ [email protected]
September 2005
I have used High's Chimney Service for years. They are reliable,
well-priced, and won't try to sell you something when you don't need it
(at least I don't think so). [email protected]
December 2004
I have found Winston’s chimney cleaners to be very reliable and
reasonable. Marty Zerwitz [email protected]
December 2004
Winston's did a good job for me as well. Kevin Pettitt [email protected]
December 2004
Chimney Crickets is very inexpensive. Patty Adam [email protected]
December 2004
I like Dave Revesz at Clean Sweep Chimney. Karen M. Muoio [email protected]
December 2004
Winston's Chimneys, we have been using their services for the chimney
of our wood-burning stove since about 1986. They are wonderful,
professional, very responsive, easy to reach and reasonable in price. I
also now personally know the owner. Dave Benway is an area ambassador
for our business group (Business Network International), as well as on
the Rockville Chamber of Commerce. He's a straight-up and honest person
and not only does he own Winston's
Chimneys ....he is a Chaplain as well! Melissa [email protected]
January 2006
Call "Winston's Chimneys." 1-800-540-6127, I believe. They do a lot of
work in N.W. D.C. They do not only this (duct cleaning) and complete
chimney services, but skylight window installation as well. Melissa
Haendler [email protected] Oct. 2006
COMPUTER REPAIRS, HELP & RECYCLERS –
Another excellent contractor, particularly for the "late bloomer"
computer user, as well as the accomplished geek, is Michael Casson of
Computeroo Computer
and Network services. Not only is he very adept at solving security and
firewall problems, but he now has a service that allows him to take
over
your computer from his business just like the professional help lines.
Bus.
Address & phone #: 3708 33rd Place, NW; Wash, DC 20008; mobile:
202-486-3145;
Phone: 202-362-0526; [email protected]; www.computeroo.net
Paul Sargent [email protected] April
2005
I have used Darby Ford, Mobile PC Solutions, (703) 938-6862 or (571)
243-1336, www.WeComeToYouPC.com and was
very happy with her work. She cleaned up my computer, installed
anti-virus,
anti-spyware and other programs to protect my computer and installed a
wireless
router so my son could use his own computer when he was home. She's
very
nice, responsive and reasonably priced. I got her name originally from
the COMMUNIT-E newsletter. Gloria White December 2004
Hi, my computer-talented son Richard is very good at helping people
with their computers, both setting up the hardware and software and
operating problems. He makes house calls in the neighborhood and has
been a great help to individuals in the Friendship Heights-Tenleytown
area. He is 19 and graduated from Landon School. Currently he working
part-time as a web-page designer and is a part-time student at AU. He
can be reached at 202-362-7917, at [email protected] and [email protected].
Donald E. Graves [email protected]
After spending over four hours in vain to fix a computer problem
including calling tech support at Apple and Adobe as well as trying to
troubleshoot the problem myself, I was ready to go out and buy a new
computer. But then I remembered seeing an ad for "Mac the Knight."
After leaving a distressed message on a voice mail, I got a call back
within minutes. Dave Felton came to my rescue the next day at noon.
Right on time, Dave arrived with his diagnostic
CDs and immediately went to work. Less than fifteen minutes later, my
computer
was working and I was back in business. If you ever are stranded with a
problem on a Mac or PC, I highly recommend that you call Dave at
703-447-7323.
Laurie England [email protected]
For help with Windows 98 and 95 I recommend Damon Metz: excellent,
reliable and reasonable: [email protected]. Susan
Drobis [email protected]
I can strongly recommend Zevi Mehlman, dba Computer Doktor
(301-649-3838). [email protected]
Chevy Chase Computers (AKA Real Tech Solutions) 364-1299
Bruce S. Maliken is excellent. I had a problem and he charged $85 an
hour and fixed everything within an hour. He's at 240-475-4193, and [email protected].
Aaron Epstein [email protected] June
2004
Daniel came to my house and 'cleaned up' my computer. I would recommend
him for the contact list for the neighborhood. David Epstein Computer
& Repair Daniel Quintanilla [email protected] Tel:
(240)838-0691 [email protected] July 2004
I highly recommend Alex McDiarmid for all your computer needs. I had an
old Dell that was riddled with viruses, frequently locked up, and
wouldn't
shut down properly. He fixed it well and it's now humming smoothly. He
is
very competent and, unlike a few I've worked with before, he explains
in
plain language what he is doing and gives you a lot of useful tips. His
prices are also reasonable. You can contact him at: Work: 202-265-7968;
Mobile: 202-413-4665; e-Mail: [email protected] If you want
more info, you can call me at 202-458-0402.
[email protected]@worldbank.org
December 2004
I want to recommend my computer consultant, Cameron Jones. He has done
everything from set up my home office, to save me from a virus, to
resurrect
a dead hard drive. He is designing a website for me now. He is smart,
reliable, will come to your home (and can perform many fixes remotely),
charges reasonable rates, and is available for phone or email
consultation for matters large and small. His email is [email protected];
phone: 571-217-3596. Emily Yoffe [email protected] March 2005
I found the web site for the Electronic Industries Alliance Consumer
Education Initiative (www.eiae.org). The site lists
organizations, by state, that accept used computers or their
components. I have never used this myself but it’s worth looking at.
Pat Mullan [email protected]
I had good luck getting rid of a Trojan virus by using: Kathy Olsen at
CyberJunkees 301-365-9270 [email protected].
Carolyn Donnelly [email protected] February
2006
I wanted to recommend someone who can do website development and
maintenance. He did a website for me. His name is Sumit Kayastha and
his email address is [email protected] If
you need any such services, he is super efficient, professional and
reasonable. If you call him, tell him that Susan Harmeling
sent you. [email protected] Oct. 2006
Chevy Chase Computer on Connecticut Ave. [email protected]
Tell him that I recommended him. They have saved more than one computer
from a very bad condition (viruses, etc.) Richard Clark [email protected]
Oct. 2006
I had a virus laden computer, and was very pleased with Computer Geeks.
They are at 3400 Garrison St (phone: 686-9097). Several of my friends
have
had good experiences with them as well. Kelly R. [email protected]
Oct. 2006
Michael Casson of Computeroo is wonderful. We highly recommend him; he
is prompt, thorough and reasonable. To reach him: mobile: 202-486-3145
phone: 202-362-0526 [email protected] Oct.
2006
CONCRETE/PAVING –
ALFONSO GIBBS, concrete work: Mitchellville, MD. 301/499-0259. He did
my brick front walk and stairs and has done numerous other
concrete/masonry in Friendship Heights neighborhood. Susan Ellis [email protected]
Oct. 2006
CONSTRUCTION –
I recently had someone working on the house. I was very pleased and
thought I'd share the recommendation with the neighborhood. We recently
needed some design and building done on our decrepit pergola. A new
neighbor was reconstructing a deck, and after going to bid, we chose
the same builder, Innovative Spaces, to do the work. We were very
pleased with Mr. Taylor Mattews and his group. (The phone number is:
301-662-8181.) The redesign was more functional and better looking than
the original. Taylor gave us excellent material suggestions, was
prompt, punctual, and cleaned up daily. I was extremely pleased with
him and his work. He is moderately expensive but fair--and very good.
Very highly recommended. Bob and Hazel Keimowitz [email protected]
2003
A police lieutenant told me about a friend of his (retired from MPD)
whom he has hired himself and who he says does excellent construction
and remodeling work. The man is Daniel Schauf, designer and installer,
at 914-286-3146 or
941-764-7175. The Company is Dalu Enterprise, Inc. It's in Florida but
Mr.
Schauf comes to DC frequently and will come just for a particular job.
2004
I can tell you who NOT to use – Allday Remodeling advertises regularly
in the current and the owner, Allen, does a great snow job when he
comes for an estimate. But we never saw him again once work began on
our bathroom, and his subcontractors grumbled constantly about what a
jerk he is. The work
was substandard. After numerous problems with small contractors for a
number
of smaller projects, we chose to use a big company – Case – when we did
our major addition. From an accountability and quality standpoint, it
was
worth the extra money. Johanna Turner [email protected]
July 2004
JMR Home Improvements 301-252-2078 or 240-832-4830. Two terrific
brothers have just established a home improvement business for indoor
remodeling (bathrooms,
kitchens, carpentry, etc.), small additions, and outdoor landscaping
needs.
I have worked with both over several years while they have been
employed at the Cathedral and working part time as independent
contractors. If you have a plan, they will help you make it happen. You
could not find harder working, more trustworthy or genuinely decent men
than Miguel and Manuel. Serena Fossi [email protected]
January 2006
We highly recommend Victor Mendieta's Bethesda-based Unlimited Home
Services. Office phone: (301) 229-3335. We have used Victor over and
over again, with consistently excellent results. Our first project
consisted of painting the
interior of our house and putting down a new tile floor in part of the
downstairs.
Our second project was in a condo, updating a kitchen by tearing down a
wall, building a breakfast bar, tiling the kitchen, retiling the
bathroom
and glazing the bathtub, painting throughout the apartment and
installing
light fixtures and adding electrical outlets. The third project was
installing
a new toilet and fixing our collapsed living room ceiling. (Don't ask.)
Victor came to us highly recommended by friends, and in each of our
experiences,
he underbid other contractors we called in for estimates for comparison
purposes. His English is perfect. He is impeccably polite. His crews
are hard-working, friendly, and meticulous about all things, including
clean-up.
He starts when he says he will start and finishes when he says he will
finish.
Unlike some contractors, Victor is all about getting repeat business,
and
it shows. He also does much larger projects, including total home
restorations
and additions, new kitchens, etc. The only bad thing we can say about
him
is that, oddly, he isn't excellent about returning calls during the
estimate
process. Once he starts work, however, he is super-diligent and utterly
responsive. (Better that than the other way around!) So we recommend
him
without reservation. Dan Froomkin [email protected] Oct. 2006.
I would like to recommend an excellent contractor who recently did a
beautiful job with some plumbing and tile work in my bathroom. His name
is Mike Smith and he can be contacted at [email protected]
or at 301 807 5240. Mike is bright, communicative, reliable, creative,
and a hard worker.
His prices are also reasonable. He is a complete pleasure to work with,
and I commend him to you for any kitchen, bathroom, or general home
remodeling
project. Please let him know you got his name from me. Lynne Heneson [email protected]
December 2006
DENTISTS –
My daughter goes to Dr. Dana Greenwald, a terrific pediatric dentist;
address is something like 5225 Wisconsin Ave. She and her staff make
the visit to the dentist fun, even when having to do some not-so-nice
things to teeth. I highly recommend her. Lesley Shneier [email protected]
In response to the person seeking a pediatric dentist in the Tenleytown
area, I recommend Dr. Dana Greenwald in Friendship Heights, DC. Mohini
Malho [email protected]
My kids enjoy going to Dr. John Kelly in Bethesda. They've been going
there since they were toddlers and never mind it, except when I drag
them there at 7am (great for pre-school times when they get older).
He's terrific with kids. D&S Dental Associates, 301-657-3220 (same
block as Barnes & Noble, Bethesda Bagel, Quartermaines and Dunkin
Donuts). [email protected]
We use Peter Michael at Connecticut and Nebraska. We got him from other
satisfied friends where the whole family used him and my husband child
and I all use him. We think he is terrific. I am the chicken in the
family
and he is exceptionally patient with me. Anne Cauman [email protected]
I highly recommend a dentist in Chevy Chase, Dr. Bonnie Lin. Neighbors
told me about her, and she’s terrific: painless, explains everything
very
clearly, and very sensitive about the cost of her work. Her office is
at
5454 Wisconsin Ave; phone is (301) 986-1988. Janet Bachman [email protected]
December 2005
DOCTORS – (OBGYNS)
Location - Georgetown - 202-444-8531
1. Dr Christine Colie (2 votes); 2. Dr. Breen Megan; 3. Dr. Bray Megan;
4. Dr. Dennis Amini Joanne Capper [email protected]
Location - Foxhall OBGYN - Mass Ave, NW, Suite 112, 363-0845, billing
(301) 316-2846: 1. Dr. Constance Bohan; 2. Dr. Maro Sarafian
(sa-ray-fee-en - accent
on the 'ray'); and 3. Dr. Sharon Malone. Joanne Capper [email protected]
Location - GWU Medical Faculty Associates (downtown): Dr. Nancy Gaba
Joanne Capper [email protected]
Location - Chevy Chase - 5454 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 1035 - (301)
654-5700: Dr. Amanda McPherson. She's thorough, a good listener, and
the office staff seems very good. Joanne Capper [email protected]
Location - 5550 Friendship Boulevard - Chevy Chase. I can't recommend
Powers & Bergin highly enough – I could write pages of reasons why.
Joanne Capper
[email protected]
Location - Downtown DC: 1. Drs. Reiter & Hill - also offices on
19th Street; 2. Dr. Lori Picco @ 2141 K Street downtown - 202-331-9293.
She is vibrant and a great listener. Joanne Capper [email protected]
DOORS –
We had a door custom made (because we didn't want to give up our
moldings). We used Washington Home Improvement Inc., of Washington
Energy Conservation Systems. Their phone number is 703-354-5700. Kelly
Rubenstein [email protected] – May 2004
DRIVING INSTRUCTORS –
Someone requested information on a driving instructor for their
teenager. I highly recommend "Officer Wilson", a retired policeman who
teaches teens to drive. (His son also teaches this.) He was incredibly
good with our son. He even goes with his students when they take their
test. Everyone at the test site knows him - and they also know that if
he taught this kid, this kid knows how to drive! His # is 202-581-6256
. His son's # is 202-438-9038 - Glenn Wilson. [email protected]
ELDER SERVICES –
Do you or someone you know need help? I have two people to recommend --
one for regular care and one for occasional care. Both speak English
and are legal. (1) The aide to my elderly mother has her mornings free.
She is very understanding of the needs of the elderly and very
dependable. She works in AU Park in the afternoon and uses public
transportation to get to work. (2) An aide who retired from nursing
homes and has worked with
hospice is looking for occasional work. She has a car. For more
information,
please contact: Kathleen Conley (202-452-2389 from 7 am - 4 pm;
202-362-7465
after 5 pm; or by email: [email protected] .
I would like to highly recommend Josephina Lorenzo for childcare or
eldercare. She has been a companion and aid to my elderly, disabled
mother for two years
and she is wonderfully compassionate, kind and devoted. She has also
worked
in a pre-school and has a certificate in child development. As my
mother’s
constant companion, she drove, helped with shopping, ran errands, did
the
laundry, light cooking, oversaw medications and did whatever it took to
keep my mother safe and satisfied (and it took a lot). She speaks
English
well and is legal. She can be reached at 301-466-4362. I will gladly
provide
references if you contact me by email at [email protected].
Marla Mitnick [email protected]
February 2006
I am writing to highly recommend the services of private duty caregiver
Paulette Wynter, who worked for my elderly mother-in-law for nearly
four years at the Assisted Living facility, "Chevy Chase House" in
Washington,
D.C. Many assisted living facilities allow residents to hire "private
duty"
caregivers to assist them and provide companionship. Paulette was a
superb
employee; keenly intelligent, hard-working, always on time and skilled
in
all nursing duties. She can handle any situation. My mother-in-law
could
be relentlessly difficult, but Paulette always responded with warmth
and
caring. She has such infinite patience that her co-workers fondly
dubbed
her "Saint Paulette." Paulette is looking for a weekday, 9 am to 6 p.m.
job as a caregiver. She could work in an elderly person's home...or at
a
facility. Her charge is $15 per hour. I enthusiastically recommend her
and
would be happy to give you more information. Paulette's phone number is
(301) 559-1162. Mary Beth Bowen [email protected] November 2006
ELECTRICIANS –
Kevin Rozier at 841-8021.
I would like to recommend Kevin Rozier for electrical work. He has done
several jobs for me, including the installation of an attic fan. His
work
is excellent and his charges are very reasonable. He can be reached at
202-841-8021. Kathy Smith July 2006
Fairfax Electric (ask for John) - 301-855-5949 Mark DeSimone [email protected]
Evan Bestland at 301-424-0130. Jennifer Rose [email protected]
Crescent Electric at 363-7100. Emil Skodon [email protected]
I just wanted to let you know that I used Crescent Electric (Ethel) -
202-363-7100, due to a recommendation on your list. The person they
sent (Tony) was terrific, reasonable, gave good advice, etc. Barbara
Harrison [email protected]
Crescent Electricians were absolutely great. They did a quick, tidy job
and, since they charge by the hour and I had some time left, gave me
some
pointers on how to install a timer on my light panels. Their number is:
202-363-7100 [email protected] June 2004
I can highly recommend Mike Vladimirovic who is a master electrician.
He is also old-school, if he says he'll be there at 8 am, he'll
probably be there at 7:45. I forget the name of his company, but he
works alone or he'll bring a team. 703-980-8717. Don Wilson [email protected]
Oct. 2006
I'd highly recommend Crescent Electric (363-7100) but ask that Tony NOT
be the electrician that they send. We've used them 4 times and all the
guys except for him have been great. Tony was very rude and left a mess
in our kitchen and I called them...they said that they had been having
issues
with him so maybe he's not even working there anymore. [email protected]
Oct. 2006
ELECTRONICS’ SERVICES –
VHS TAPES TRANSFERRED TO DVD - I recommend David at Transvideo: 919
North Kenmore Street, Arlington 22201. 703-525-0297 [email protected].
Highly recommended. Works out of his house. Bill Harwood [email protected]
Sept. 2006.
I use a company called cdBBQ, www.cdbbq.com, to convert my LPs and
audio cassettes to CDs. They do a great job. Bill Adler [email protected]
Oct. 2006
ENGINEERS –
Spring is just around the corner and many people in our neighborhood
are looking forward to remodeling and creating new additions to their
homes. My father is a Civil Engineer with over 35 years of experience
in the field of home remodeling. The following is a brief description
of his business and services: Pagano Professional Corporation, 16531
Redland Road, Rockville, Maryland 20855-1946. Tel: 301-670-5885,
E-mail: [email protected] . Augusto Pagano,
P. E. who brings over 35 years of experience in the design and
construction management of a variety of projects worldwide, heads the
Corporation. Augusto Pagano is a licensed professional engineer in many
States
including Maryland, Virginia, and District of Columbia. Alex G Dias
&
Silvana Pagano-Dias [email protected] 2003
FIREWOOD –
Someone wanted a recommendation for firewood. We've had good experience
with a guy named Kent Ashe, who lives out in West Virginia. He doesn't
come to DC a lot, but if he's available, he's honest, his wood is dry
and
a relatively good deal. The number is 304-754-7641. David J. Leviss [email protected]
FLOOR REFINISHERS –
Hardwood floor refinishing -- Two years ago, I had all the floors in my
house refinished by Rick Noonan at 301-229-6338. My realtor also gave
me Nash Floor at 301-891-0004 and Roy Meador & Sons at
703-836-1122. I picked Noonan because he could work me into his
schedule. I don't know if they are all still in the business. James H.
Johnston [email protected]
For floors I recommend John Cooper (703) 426-0356. He has all the
professional equipment. He usually needs 2 weeks lead time. He did my
floors 10 years ago and you can take a look if you like! David Epstein [email protected]
Recommend Larry Jackson of myfloors.com. Barbara Bergman
bbergman@wam_umd-edu
Universal Floors on 41st. Street in Tenleytown. [email protected]
Oct. 2006.
FURNITURE REFINISHERS –
Steve Yoder, S&S Woodcrafts, Mechanicsville, MD (Southern Maryland,
below Waldorf). Steve is Amish, originally from Lancaster, PA. He does
not pick up or deliver (no car; only horse and buggy); he also has no
telephone
in his home; but a message can be left for him after 6 at 301-472-4962
-
or a note can be mailed to him at 26759 Thompsons Corner Road,
Mechanicsville, MD 20659. It takes about l-l/2 hours to drive to his
home. His charges are at least one-half of the local rates. Connie
Derman [email protected]
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS –
If anyone needs a graphic designer for web designs, logos, business
"stuff" or even personal designs, contact John Alspaugh email: [email protected]
or phone him at 240 432 9939. He is a delightful young man, with lots
of great ideas, not at all pushy. He has done a lot of creative work
for me, for my son's business and for Cure Autism Now. December 2005
GUTTER CLEANING –
We use Winston's gutter cleaning service twice a year. They're not
cheap ($60 - 80) but they do a good job and fix the gutters, as needed,
as they clean them. 301-986-1804 [email protected]
We've been using Winston's Gutter Service for many years. I call them,
they come within 2 weeks, we don't have to be home, then they bill us.
They
also do windows as a separate service. The phone number is
301-986-1804.
[email protected]
I use Winston Gutters and they are very good. Their number is (301)
530-8595. I think they are backed up right now as this is their busy
season, but it might be worth calling them. [email protected]
We have been using a guy named Art Schultz who charges about $120 for
the house and garage. We have a lot of trees on the property so we have
it done at least twice a year. The best part is that I call him, and he
comes and does it and sends me a bill-no waiting at home, etc. It
sometimes takes a
week or two for him to get to the job but he always comes through and
does
a very neat and thorough job. He will also trim shrubbery, etc. It's a
very
low tech operation, however, just a message machine, the best bet is to
call him at home in the evening. (703) 273-7252. A Brandywine St.
Neighbor.
We have our gutters cleaned by our lawn service, which is Wray Bros. in
Bethesda, 301-654-5845. They also do a great job on our lawn. [email protected]
Troy at D & M Roofing at 301-948-0100. I have found them to be very
businesslike and I had tried others before them. They work in
essentially
all weather. They will however want to use an outside hose tap and
probably
would love it if you had a hose out there. But you can talk to them
about
that. They charge 35 bucks to come and evaluate, and that is charged
off
against any work they do. From: Another neighbor
We used a company called Aerotech (301) 937-6535. They were great.
From: A neighbor on Alton Place
Troy at D&M Roofing has been taking care of my steep slate roof,
and gutters, for years and done good work at acceptable prices. And
he's very reliable. His number: 301-948-0100. Lisa Berger
We just had Association Management install a new flat roof and deck at
the rear of our house and were very pleased with the quality of their
job
and efficiency of their work (Association Management also had repaired
portions of our slate roof and cleans our gutters, both of which they
have done ably and inexpensively). Call 301/384-5677 and ask for
Richard (let him know the
Spigel's recommended you). Jeff Spigel [email protected]
We use Winston's; they have both DC and Maryland phone numbers. Herb
Hagerty [email protected] March 2006
HANDYMEN –
We would like to recommend George Kaminski, our Handyman. He does a
great job very reliable and his prices are very reasonable. He has a
website www.PaintingandHomeRepairs.com.
His telephone number is (240) 383-2945 He works in the city throughout
the week. A very nice gentleman. He helped us get our home ready to
sell. Mike Jordandc [email protected] April
2005
I highly recommend Mike Hotka. He lives in our neighborhood and can do
darn near anything that needs to be done. He’s completely trustworthy
and
reliable, and his rates are very reasonable. His phone number is (202)
364-8577.
Janet Bachman [email protected] 2005
I recommend Josh Palmer, Facilities Manager at Community Council for
the Homeless, for your skilled household jobs--carpentry, drywall,
floor installation, painting, carpet installation, plumbing, and minor
electrical. He is careful and very trustworthy. Call Josh at
202-277-1298. Recommended by Liz Siegel, Co-Pres. of the CCH/FP Board. [email protected]
April 2004
I want to recommend the work of general contractor James Adams. He does
carpentry, plumbing and painting. He repaired and saved a half-rotted
garage
door another carpenter told me was unsalvageable. He has done painting
for
me, household repairs, and replaced a toilet. He is reliable, honest,
creative,
and fair -- and a delightful guy. His number is 301-455-555. Emily
Yoffe
[email protected]
April 2004
Dwight Peters (drywall, woodwork, etc.) 301-802-2236 Mark DeSimone [email protected]
Marcotulio Orellana and his company 'The Home Doctor.' 301-942-7768.
Cell phone: 240- 604-4742. Deborah C. Fort [email protected]
Mark Verna at 301-891-2854. [email protected]
In reply to two recent requests for a painter/carpenter/subcontractor,
I'm pleased to make a strong recommendation for James Adams. Here at
the Washington Ethical Society this past summer, he and his very able
crew did some rewiring, patching, repairs, and painting, plus basic
plumbing and installed a sink. We are very pleased with the work and
would happily
use his services again. You can reach him at cellular 301-455-5556,
office
301-853-9571. Please tell him Karen sent you. Karen Schofield-Leca [email protected]
I'd like to recommend Marcos Orellana, carpenter, and handyman and his
company "The Home Doctor." 301-942-7768. Cell phone 240-604-4742.
E-mail:
[email protected]
. Marcos and his staff come with twenty years of local recommendations;
he
gives fair, firm estimates free; his work is done quickly and well.
Deborah C. Fort [email protected]
Excellent home repair, carpentry, painting and plastering. Jaime
Barrera has worked for me for 10 years, doing everything from building
a deck over my garage to plastering and painting my hall and upstairs
and many smaller tasks. His phone number is: (home) 301/422-7111; cell
phone: 301/509-2675. Susan Ellis [email protected]
We have a reliable house services name to share with our neighbors. We
have depended upon Mike Reidy of MULTIPLE SERVICES on 342-9356 in
close-by
Glover Park for nearly 15 years to take care of both interior and
exterior
work. He handles lawn work, repairs, painting and remodeling jobs from
start
to finish for us and his rates are reasonable. We highly recommend him.
Kathleen McLynn [email protected]
I HIGHLY recommend Richard Lane & Assoc., for small or large
repairs (carpentry, wall repairs, painting etc. etc.). One of Richard's
guys, Steve, came to my home this a.m. to repair hole in the wall left
from
plumber repair, and slight rock in toilet. He got there in time, was
pleasant and fast, did a beautiful job!! Lane can be reached at
301-753-1667, or cell
phone 202-672-0034. Barbara Harrison [email protected]
Pat Turvey, D.C. native, grew up and went to school in the District,
near Mass Ave & Wisc. Ave intersection, and moved to Arlington some
years back. As honest and reasonable as they come. And as an extra
bonus, is an excellent carpenter & craftsman. Ph 703-241-1061.
Richard Bienvenue [email protected]
I heartily recommend HouseCraft LLC for home renovations, large and
small. The LLC is owned and run by Stos Wronka. He and his crew are
first rate. They re-did my basement last August after the flood and did
such a wonderful job that they are now renovating my kitchen and sun
room. The project includes removal of a load bearing wall. I know that
they have done major additions and have a long list of pleased
customers. The workers are punctual; jobs are completed in a timely
fashion. They are very careful with all household goods and keep the
site as clean as possible. The workers and Stos pay careful attention
to detail; they provide a quality of craftsmanship that I have not
encountered in the DC area in previous work. Their office number is
301-249-4683. Ann Phillips [email protected]
I had an excellent experience with Nice Day Services - Bill Wagner
(301) 524-9620. He came to see what work was to be done, he explained
his prices, and he set an appointment for performing the work. Bill
arrived punctually on the appointed day with a helper (an option I had
agreed to). They spent about two hours (as he had estimated) doing a
variety of jobs - stabilizing the attic fan, replacing the fan belt,
oiling and adjusting the fan slats, grating and screening the louvered
area in the attic, coordinating the attic fan and light switches,
repairing two bathroom leaks (faucet and shower head),
and adjusting a sliding closet door. I was very pleased with their
work.
I have no basis for evaluating his price, but it did not seem
excessive. Michael Calingaert [email protected]
I’d like to add my praise for work done for me by Pat Turvey. He
repaired a portion of my porch that had rotted and did a good job, was
reasonably priced and was very nice to work with. Thank you Benny, Ken
and Davida for the recommendation. Kathy Smith [email protected]
July 2004
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING –
I'm writing to highly recommend Robinson's Heating and Air
Conditioning. Our air conditioner has a leak, and they came out twice,
once to defrost the unit, and then to recharge the compressor, only
charging us for one visit. They also suggested a $32 solution to what
could have been a $400 diagnostic test. They were extremely prompt,
honest, and informative. They can be reached at 301-871-8902. [email protected]
July 2004
Friendship Terrace Retirement Community has used Noyes Air Conditioning
-- (301) 670-6300 - - for over 13 years for our air conditioning and
heating needs. I have been very pleased with their service and
technicians. Dawn Quattlebaum [email protected]
I have a heating and air-conditioning recommendation. As a landlord, I
had used a number of different furnace and air conditioning repair
companies, until settling on Beltsville Heating and Air Conditioning.
They have replaced a forced-air furnace, a central a/c, and have
repaired both gas and oil-fueled boilers for me, and have usually been
able to come within a day of calling, sometimes on the same day. I've
had no complaints about any of their work. L. Carter [email protected]
I am happy with Robinson's Heating and Air-Conditioning. It's a
family-run business and small enough so that service is good. They can
be reached at 301-871-8902. Ask for Joset or Marie. David Epstein [email protected]
I have used Bethesda Heating and Air Conditioning for about 20 years
and they are VERY good, honest and reasonably priced (as these things
go!). B Kravetz
I can recommend F.S. Campbell Co. for heating and Air Conditioning. I
have used them for years for routine maintenance. They are honest,
courteous, professional and knowledgeable. Their phone number is
301-869-1843. Mitnick123
We had a ductless high velocity system installed for our whole house
(which lacks space for ducts.) Kensington Heating and Cooling did the
job, and we
are delighted with the results. The system required very little space,
and
cools wonderfully. Kelly Rubenstein [email protected]
We contacted Kensington Cooling & Heating, and after comparing
systems and costs we decided to go with the Space Pak system, the one
using 2 inch flex tubing ducts. This was after we saw a system like
this being installed in another house and returned to see how it
worked. It does seem to be the ideal solution for houses with limited
space for the conventional ducts. If we experience any problems after
we've had it a while, I will let everybody know. Richard Abbott [email protected]
For furnace repair and new furnace installation, I wholeheartedly
recommend the firm of Mindte Furnace and Air Conditioning in Rockville
at 301-424 8786.
Herb Hagerty [email protected]
HOUSEKEEPERS –
I would like to recommend a house painting/cleaning service I have just
used to do major cleaning and repainting of an apartment rented for 20
years. The husband has been a professional painter for 17 years and his
wife has done housecleaning for even longer in the DC area. Our next
assignment
for them is repainting our own living room! CECILIA & NELSON
CORARRUBIAS TEL: 703-913-0379 or Cell 703-362-9822. I have the highest
praise for them. Their rates are reasonable, their work very
professional (showed up when they said they would, got the job
completed as and when promised, cleaned up every night, not noisy while
working, etc.) Sarah Horsey [email protected] March 2005
Selita Ulloa is the best cleaning person we have ever had. She is
totally trustworthy, does a great job and is very nice. (301) 645-3745
or (240)210-6089 [email protected] March 2005
A neighbor of mine does not have a computer. Her housekeeper is looking
for more work. Experienced, with references. Please call Ruth Rodriguez
- 202-244-2010 (allergic to cats). Carol Chuurch [email protected]
Our excellent cleaning woman is looking for additional houses to clean,
Tuesdays and Thursdays, for a start. She is a very pleasant, decent,
and reliable human being; she cleans thoroughly and intelligently. Her
name is Irmalinda Chavez and can be reached at 301-728-3185. Andrea
Dean [email protected]
If you're looking for a reliable, trustworthy person to clean your
house regularly, I recommend our cleaner, Conchita Mejicanos,
301-422-0129. She's very pleasant and does a good job with basic
cleaning. She also does laundry and ironing -- a big plus! Bonnie Nevel
[email protected]
Our excellent housekeeper, Emelinda Chavez, has time available
Wednesdays and Fridays and would welcome new housecleaning work. She is
completely reliable,
honest, very hardworking, speaks good English, and is a lovely human
being.
She can be reached at her home, 301-617-9723 or on her cell phone,
301-728-3185.
Andrea Dean [email protected]
We are looking to have our wonderful nanny/housekeeper clean for
another AU Park family, while our children are in school. If
interested, please call 202-362-5883. Jill Palmer [email protected]
I have a housekeeper who is looking to fill another every week 1/2 day
of her schedule. She's worked for me for 13 years and has been very
reliable and delightful. If interested, call Marcie at 202-333-7730.
Joanne Capper [email protected]
My housecleaner, Anna, is looking for additional work. She has worked
for us about 3 years and is very reliable, trustworthy and does a nice
job cleaning our house. I actually found her thru this listserv. Anna
may be reached on
(703) 491-6588. Please email or call me if you’d like to hear more
about her. Dona Lenkin [email protected] July 2005
I have a great cleaner - her name is Bia: 301-460-3228. JillCork@[email protected]
October 2005
Maria Arena, cell tel. 240-988-1572 (eves.). The best we've ever had.
Also will do laundry. English a problem. Legal. When you call, speak to
her daughter, Karen. Has no car, so you must be within striking
distance of public transportation. Melvin Blecher @ [email protected]
2005
I have been using a service called "America's Cleaning Service" for
about a year and have found it to be excellent in every respect. They
clean thoroughly and are impeccably honest (I find loose change they've
found in their cleaning stacked on the counter when they've been here)
and courteous. I am happy to talk to anyone about the service if you
have questions-- and if you decide to call them, you may give my name.
Alyse Graham Nov. 2005 [email protected]
We hired a house cleaner about three months ago, whose work and
personality we like a lot. Today, she told me her daughter is looking
for work. The only
thing I know about this daughter is that her mother is a good house
cleaner.
The one looking for work is Claudia, (703) 945-0210. Susan Beale [email protected]
February 2006
We would like to recommend our cleaning lady she’s hardworking and her
prices are very reasonable. Her name is Tatiana; call her 240-483-3259
or
240-671-8952. [email protected] Oct.
2006
This is Mike just recommending to everyone our cleaning person. Her
name is Tatiana, she charges $20 an hour, and brings her own cleaning
supplies. If you’re looking to have your house cleaned she’s very
trustworthy and reliable.
She can be reached at the following numbers: 240-671-8952 &
240-483-3259.
[email protected]
Oct. 2006
INTERIOR DESIGNERS & DECORATORS –
Shari Daniels in Bethesda at 301-654-1654. Lisa Berger [email protected]
JEWELRY & WATCH REPAIRERS –
For excellent jewelry and watch repairs at low prices, I recommend you
see Cory Hyon in the lower floor of Rodman's at 5100 Wisconsin. Aaron
Epstein [email protected]
If anyone is looking for the fantastic watch repair person from G.C.
Murphy's he has relocated in the basement floor of Rodman's. Jennifer
Rose [email protected]
I recommend Ecker's Clock and Watch Repair located at 8010 Norfolk
Ave., Bethesda, 301-652-0549. Mr. Ecker retired, but the young man who
took over has repaired several antique watches for me. It doesn't
happen quickly, but
he does very good work. Dennis Beaufort and Kathryn Ray [email protected]
Watch Repairs: been going there all these years!! Basement of Rodman's;
if there was an award for a great and deserving local small business
(rents space from Rodman's, I think) this is it. Rick Servatius [email protected]
Oct. 2006.
KITCHEN REMODELING –
Raabs Cabinet Shop did a fabulous job for us. That was many years ago,
but friends have used them since and said they were still excellent.
Their
number is 301-340-7659. Tory Ruttenberg [email protected]
Stas Wronka, the manager of HouseCraft, did major work on my home a
year ago, and he was wonderful. Among the things he did was build a
bathroom from scratch. I recommend him 100%. Ken Giles & Davida
Perry [email protected]
I had my kitchen completely remodeled a couple of years ago. I hired
HouseCraft owned and run by Stas Wronka. They did a superb job. The
workers were completely reliable and honest, i.e. no concerns about
valuables in the house. Stas has an eye for detail and is a
perfectionist. Among the bids I received for
the job, he was in the middle. I would recommend them without
reservation. HouseCraft is advertised in the Northwest Current--you may
have seen the ad. The phone number is 301-249-4683. Ann Phillips [email protected]
I highly recommend Watkins Cabinet, 301-428-8510. Rudy Day is the
President, 18001 Sellman Road, Barnesville, MD. James Phalen [email protected]
We have a 1927 house on Fessenden St. We completely redid our 1927
kitchen last year. Keeping the 4 walls, but taking every thing down to
the studs. Rudy (Watkins Cabinet) had done my sister's kitchen in
Kensington a few years
ago and he has done a number of kitchens of our friends. I never did
get
multiple estimates. He is expensive, but has a number of good things
going
for him. He is adamant about starting on time and finishing when he
tells
you he will. Our entire kitchen took 6 weeks. A 20' by 10' room and
turned
out beautifully! He also works with a number of vendors in the area and
will give you a list of them. These are the people who will deliver
products
on time to your house when Rudy needs them. If you don't have a general
contractor, he gives you the name of the one who works with him. It was
a delight working with all of his vendors and his general contractor.
When
we checked the costs of products on the internet versus the vendors’
prices,
they were close if not less. The most important piece of advice is that
you should have someone there all the time, not to protect your home
but
to make the daily small decisions that are not so apparent until the
building
starts.
I strongly recommend Home Depot. As humble as they are, they
nevertheless did a fantastic job for me and friends to whom I
recommended their services. David Winn (202-364-4350) [email protected]
As far as tile goes, try Architectural Ceramics in Rockville. They have
the best of everything. We got beautiful mosaic tiles there. You should
call and make an appointment with a designer who will show you what
you're
interested in, help you with the ordering and put you in touch with a
tile
guy. [email protected] Oct.
2006
LAWN & YARD SERVICES –
For preparing soil and seeding lawn - Try the people we use: Lapinski's
Landscaping, Inc., per Eric Lapinski, Tel. 301 924 0104. Dr Melvin
Blecher
[email protected]
– September 2004
Try Jack Spencer, 301 384-3285. Does our twice a year yard and gutter
clean-up. Does landscaping, etc. [email protected] – September 2004
Kevin Kernan (301) 587-5115. Say that Cynthia sent you, please.
Although Kevin lives in Maryland he only works in the Tenleytown area.
Cynthia Grant [email protected] Feb. 2005
My two boys, Jake and Scot, take care of pets, shovel walks, cut grass,
etc. Jake is a senior at Wilson and Scot is at Deal. We live on Jenifer
St. and if you live nearby let me know. John Hoke [email protected]
March 2005
Jack Spencer, 301 384-3285. He was recommended in a previous community
newsletter. I contacted him but unfortunately hired someone else before
he called back, which he did with reasonable prices. Susan Ellis [email protected]
April 27, 2005
The best & most reasonable gardener/ landscaper you will find is a
lady from College Park: Janet "Walkin' Dove" Koles at 301-474-2461. She
is intelligent, a real worker, and as honest as the day is long. I've
known her for 25 years, and when she's not working, she's volunteering
for the Boy Scouts, square dance teams, teaching Sunday school, etc.
Richard Bienvenue [email protected]
I've just had my spring garden cleaning done by Evaristo Hernandez
(trade name: Hernandez and Daughters; reachable by cell phone at
202/421-3442) and
recommend him highly. He did an expert job of pruning, mulching and
clean-up.
Plus, his fee was reasonable and he was immediately available. Lisa
Berger
[email protected]
My mother hired a Master Gardner to take care of her garden and is
extremely pleased with the work. Amanda Ramirez has been working in
this neighborhood, Georgetown and Kenwood for many years and has
excellent references. She landscapes
beautifully, starting with clean-up and goes through planting and
mulching.
She then continues to care for your garden throughout the season if you
so desire. Her charges are very reasonable. 301-330-9260. Amy Bauer [email protected]
Re: landscapers and patio installers -- Happy to recommend Mark
Willcher, who does lovely work and is a fine man to boot. Mark Willcher
& Co., 10486 Parthenon Ct., Bethesda 20817. 301-320-2040. Pager:
301-507-7952. [email protected]
For a good yard man, who can weed, trim tall hedges, edge, cut down big
bushes, etc. I would highly recommend Reginald's Landscaping. He mows,
clips, plants and what ever else you might need. He does great work. He
has lots of customers in AU Park. Larry Williams [email protected]
In response to an inquiry about underground irrigation systems, we had
one installed by Heads Up, a Maryland company, about 10 years ago and
its
been working trouble-free ever since. They also come faithfully to
winterize the system (the pipes have to be blown free of water) and to
start it up although one can easily do the start up one's self.
Unfortunately, I've mislaid
the telephone number. Mel Blecher [email protected]
We use a lawn service which is very good. The guy's name is Paul
Stadtler and his prices are very good. He mows for basically everyone
on our block. Phone (301) 460-0719. Real nice guy and dependable. Ann
Schweitzer August 2005
Just thought I should tell you that I tried three of the lawn/yard work
people recommended in the report on handymen and all proved problematic
– Mr. Larry Williams wrote back that he does not do yard work; Keven,
whom
I sort of know from the 'hood, was very hard to pin down and then in
the
end never turned up when we was supposed to and did not and has not
called;
and Hernandez and Daughters' number has been disconnected. Sorry to
have
to report this but thought you might want to know. Mary P. Haney [email protected]
August 2005
My husband and I have used two people found through your newsletter --
cabinet maker Geoff Seeley and gardener Serena Fossi -- and have been
thrilled
with the work of both. We called Serena, in fact, just a couple weeks
ago,
soon as I spotted her note in COMMUNIT-E. She's wonderful and has
transformed our mess of a yard in just a few hours -- and at a very
reasonable fee. Thank
you again, for making these referrals possible. [email protected]
Recommendation for good yard work person: mowing, landscaping,
mulching, etc., uses natural products; environmentally friendly. Tom
Kniezewski (Green Grass Cutters): 610-413-3808 cell; [email protected]
www.enviro-mow.com
Leonard@[email protected]
Gilberto is great. He does our lawn and cleans the gutters among many
other things! You can contact him at 301 949 6941. VivianaLopezGreen@[email protected]
October 2005
I can recommend Mark Willcher & Co., 10486 Parthenon Ct., Bethesda
MD 20817, 301-320-2040. Mark has worked with us for years, and he's
great. [email protected] February 2006
LOCKSMITHS –
We recently used Bob Lennox of Lennox Lock Service and were very
pleased. We first contacted him on the basis of an excellent rating in
the Washington Checkbook and found that it was well-deserved. His
number is 703-527-2932. Steven Gross [email protected]
Good locksmith: Liberty Lock and Security. I have called on Rick
several times over the many years, simply because his best friend is my
best mechanic for 15 years. I figured good people stick together. And
so, I was right. You probably will not see Rick himself, he is the big
guy. But I am sure the employees are up to his standards of honesty and
customer service. Anji Henderson [email protected]
A locksmith who is extremely good, experienced and AAA rated: Maye's
Home-Auto Locksmith (Tech-Owner: Gerry) Phone: Office: 703-551-4109;
Home: 703-271-1970. I hope this will be useful to the person who was in
search for a locksmith. Francis D'Silva [email protected]
LOST PETS –
When a pet is missing, contact D.C. Animal Control (run by Wash Humane)
at 202/576-6664 and report it missing. Someone there will check the log
they keep of "found pets" to see if anyone called in a found report on
the animal. Also try Sherlock Bones (http://sherlockbones.com; or
1-800-942-6637) which is highly effective in reuniting pets with
owners. [email protected]
MASONS –
John Coronas, 301-946-6318 or 301-674-3343 (cell) or 301-838-1070
(pager), is an excellent brick mason. We and many of our friends have
used him, with fine results. He is very busy and not always easy to
reach. Dr. Melvin Blecher [email protected] Feb. 2005
ALFONSO GIBBS, concrete work: Mitchellville, MD. 301/499-0259. He put
in my brick path and steps in front of my home on 42nd St., and has
done numerous jobs in the area, including work for Mrs. Reed on Jenifer
St. Susan Ellis [email protected] Feb. 2005
I would also recommend Paul Sampogna of PASCO Construction, (301)
208-3552. He has done excellent stone and brick work for us (on
Brandywine) and some of our friends as well, and has a very long list
of projects that he has completed in the neighborhood. [email protected]
Feb. 2005
C. L. Williams at 301-397-4692 (beeper) or 301-856-4967. He does
painting, cement, driveways, sidewalks, block & brick work, and
hauling.
I've had a lot of brick work done over the years, and always used
Virnel Allen. He does great work, though he's not cheap. He's also a
grumpy old man, but the quality of his work makes up for it. Mr.
Allen's phone is (202) 429-0324. Janet Bachman [email protected]
2004
Thanks to the kind neighbour who provided the name of Virnel Allen. He
was great. Came when he said he would, did an excellent job, was
courteous, and even gave me a plant! I highly recommend him. He is
elderly and has help
to do the heavy work but the actual bricklaying he does himself. His
number
is 202 429 0324 or 202 396 9556. [email protected]
John & Leto Coronas – in Montgomery County phone book. Aug. 2004
I used a company called Alfredo's Construction (703-698-0060) to do
some brick mason, and I was very pleased. Truscott, Michael [email protected]
Sept. 2006
I would highly recommend A. Volpe & Sons. They did a great job on
my slate walkway. (And that of three neighbors as well). They were very
reasonable as well. 301-345-7743 Beth Kravetz Sept. 2006
Call Stefan Martin, a local guy who lives in Woodley Park. Mr. Martin
has received many awards for his outstanding abilities. He is best
reached by cell phone at: (240) 645-9480. Deborah Jane Sept. 2006
We can add our voice to the recommendations of others for John Coronas,
who now calls his business J.C. Pride Construction. John is an
independent
businessman --a very nice gentleman from Portugal who does excellent
work,
charges reasonable rates, and comes when he says he will or calls to
change
the time if he can't make it (!). He does other work as well -- we had
him
do some drywall work at the same time as the masonry work on the
chimney.
Richard Abbott [email protected]
December
2006
MOVERS –
Nice local mover: We have been pleased with Multiple Services in Glover
Park. Owner Mike Reidy is honest and nice and has a hard working crew.
We've depended upon him for years and would be happy to give him a
reference.
Mike Reidy is on 202/342-9356. Kathleen McLynn [email protected]
I do want to recommend someone who does small moving and hauling jobs,
whose name I forwarded to a subscriber to communit-e. Actually, he can
do
handyman jobs as well, or if he can't, he'll recommend a friend who is
reliable. This man is: Rodney Young, 202-291-5152. He can put up
curtain rods, etc., and minor carpentry; he recommended a painter and a
plumber. Kay McClenon [email protected]
We used Town and Country to move here in DC and to move our daughter
from San Francisco to Philadelphia. They did a very fine job for us. We
also have
recommended them to friends who said they were very satisfied. Town
&
Country Movers Inc. 7650 Rickenbacker Dr., Gaithersburg, MD (301)
670-4600 Jim Holway [email protected]
I wanted to let people know if they are looking for a mover, DO NOT use
Garrett Moving and Storage in Maryland. We had horrible problems with a
small move from just a few blocks away - they loaded all the furniture
so sloppily that almost every piece of furniture we have was damaged.
They
were totally
non-responsive to follow up, rude, and managed to avoid service of a
complaint by moving business locations. I have heard good things about
Gullivers. Elizabeth
Schickedanz [email protected]
Feb. 2004
My husband and I just moved from our house in AU Park last week (alas,
to Bethesda!) and had a terrific moving experience. We used Mullen's
Transfer & Storage (tel: 202-829-6676, contact Mike Mullen), a
family owned company in DC. I received several quotes for the move
(from Mullen's, Beltway Movers and Commonwealth Movers) and chose to go
with Mullen's based on their rating in checkbook.org, references I
spoke with, and price (they gave me the best quote by far, and it was
for a fixed price). It was a great choice for us. We had not one
hiccup, not one damaged piece of furniture or box, and the guys on the
team were friendly and courteous. I would happily use them again, and
believe they serve both local moves and moves on the East Coast. Maria
C. Kozloski [email protected] July 2005
I have just completed a local move with Mullens Transfer and Storage Co
(202-829-6676 or 202-667-5360), a DC firm that has been around for many
years, and would like to recommend the company to others. I did my
homework
first in the Washington Checkbook where they were highly rated. The
movers
were courteous, competent, well-supervised, and the price was
reasonable.
The estimate was accurate and a representative of the firm came to my
home
first. I was impressed. Jennifer Ward [email protected]
Sept. 2006
Metropolitan Moving and Storage LLC 301-279-0090 ask for Jon he is one
of the co-owners they moved us and did a great job and he and
generations
of Neal's are from Cleveland Park. Nelson Jacobsen [email protected]
Sept. 2006
MUSIC TEACHERS –
I recall someone asking about a good piano instructor. I recommend
Victoria Wyatt, phone - 703.914.0690; e-mail - [email protected]
. Please tell her how you heard of her. Thanks! She is known as a fine
performer, teacher and adjudicator. As a performing artist, Wyatt has
appeared in such venues as the Kennedy Center's Terrace Theater, the
Corcoran Gallery
of Art, the Phillips Collection, the Smithsonian Institution, and the
Arts Club of Washington. Many of her former students now enjoy
professional music careers. Jared Hughes [email protected]
I recently started taking guitar lessons at Middle C Music http://middlecmusic.com/
after not touching a musical instrument since high school. My
instructor's name is Dennis and I highly recommend him. Stephen Voss [email protected]
Oct. 2006
I HIGHLY recommend Michael Sheahan, located on Nebraska Avenue in Chevy
Chase, DC. He is an excellent teacher of both guitar and piano. His
number
is 202-686-0772. Silvana Dias [email protected] Oct. 2006
PAINTERS –
Rony Sanchez 202-669-7046 and his family did excellent work painting
the interior of my home, powerwashing the exterior, painting the trim
to my home, and staining/sealing my deck. His bid price was
significantly lower than the next lowest bidder. His crew only works
nights and weekends, which is convenient for those who work during the
day. If you have questions, e-mail
me [email protected] December
2004
I would like to recommend a house painting/cleaning service I have just
used to do major cleaning and repainting of an apartment rented for 20
years. The husband has been a professional painter for 17 years and his
wife has done housecleaning for even longer in the DC area. Our next
assignment
for them is repainting our own living room! CECILIA & NELSON
CORARRUBIAS TEL: 703-913-0379 or Cell 703-362-9822. I have the highest
praise for them. Their rates are reasonable, their work very
professional (showed up when they said they would, got the job
completed as and when promised, cleaned up every night, not noisy while
working, etc.) Sarah Horsey [email protected] March 2005
Cris Asimakopoulos of H&A Paint Inc. -- 301-942-1140 Elinor Green
Hunter [email protected]
Danny Rodgers (City & Suburban Decorators) Laura Roth [email protected]
Gray Phillips at Paint-Tech-Solutions, 301-948-3434 or [email protected].
Alex Santos -- Alex & Sons, via the Northwest Current. Michelle
& Ren LeRouzes [email protected]
A great interior painting recommendation: no wallpaper and no exterior.
They said they were the best and they'd be the most expensive. They are
definitely the former and came in cheapest of 4 rather expensive bids.
Superb quality: Washington Painting Company, 7106 Westmoreland Rd.,
Falls
Church, VA 22042-2534 (703) 849-8200; Fax (703) 849-8211. Bill Rogers [email protected]
I have used Tim Gribbin as a painter for interior and exterior work.
His phone number is 301-982-9863. [email protected]
I used Edson of E.G. Painting (a one-man show, but he sometimes hires
an additional helper), last summer and am very satisfied. He painted
inside and outside, carefully, with good clean-up. His cell phone
number is
240-876-2191. Feel free to tell him I gave you his name. Lesley Shneier
[email protected]
Painter recommended: I just used Sun Lin and his crew to paint the
inside of my house. They did great work - 4 rooms, 2 bathrooms and a
ceiling in just 2 days. I got two estimates and his was cheapest – and
compared to what
some of my friends paid, much cheaper for all that I had done. Here's
his
number: 703-243-3096. [email protected]
I highly recommend a licensed and bonded painting company called Gut
Painters, specializing in residential work, plaster and drywall repair,
wallpaper removal,
interior and exterior painting, power wash of siding and decks,
cleaning
gutters. They are honest, reasonable and very hardworking. Call Willie
Gutierrez
(410)381-4699 or (410)381-4658, or email at [email protected].
Anthoula P. Gianniotis [email protected]
We very highly recommend Elmer Herrera, both for plastering and for
painting. Elmer did major work for us this past fall. He's
hard-working, friendly, neat, and an artist when it comes to plaster.
His home number is (301)962-8936. His cell phone is (240) 508-2873.
Steven Gross and Micki Chen [email protected]
Recommended house painter (interior and exterior) and drywall guy:
Arturo Arauzo (Arturo Painting). He and his guys are punctual, do a
fine job, and cost one-third to one-half less than the usual
neighborhood "big names." He came recommended from another neighbor,
and has done several jobs for me. (301) 949-7363, or pager: (301)
403-5168. David M. Winn [email protected]
I highly recommend J. Francisco Sorto, a house painter who has worked
for us for a dozen years. A true professional, Mr. Sorto takes
justifiable pride in his work. He does thorough preparation --
scraping, sanding, caulking -- and his work is meticulous. He is also
completely trustworthy -- we feel comfortable leaving him alone in our
house. Many of our neighbors have also been pleased with his work. His
prices are at the higher end, but quite reasonable
given the quality of his work. Phone: 301-434-3660. Joanne Levine [email protected]
We highly recommend Elmer Herrera for both exterior and interior
painting. He also does excellent prep and repair work on plaster and
can help with other stuff too. His home number is (301) 962-8936. His
cell phone is (240) 508-2873 (assuming there's been no change since
last year). StevenGross@[email protected]
September 2005
We recommend Alberto Hernandez who has done a lot of work for us. His
number is 301-537-6564. ASCHWE4527@[email protected]
September 2005
We just had a great experience with Mike Magor, who repainted several
large areas and did extensive touch-up work to correct a disastrous job
by another painter recommended on this list (avoid Mike Johnson!). Mike
M. is fast, precise, neat, considerate, and thoroughly pleasant to work
with. We hired him on an hourly basis because of the disjointed nature
of the job, but his
total charges worked out to less than the other bids we received. Our
work
was all interior painting, although he does exteriors too. His number
is
202-483-8432.
Lorie Leavy - [email protected] June 2006
I would like to recommend an excellent house painter: Roberto Gramajo,
whose firm, R&G Painting, Inc., is licensed and insured. I have
never
in all my 28 years of home ownership in the District been so pleased
with any contractor as I have been with him. He is meticulous,
punctual, honest,
hardworking, and reliable, as well as courteous, professional, and
personable.
My house is a wood frame colonial built in 1923, and requires high
maintenance
on a regular basis. It has been painted many times, but never with such
care and detail - and at a very reasonable, fair price! And on
schedule!
If you need exterior or interior painting, please give Roberto a call
at
(202)243-8789 or (202)907-8349. You may also call me at (202)966-9244,
as
I am more than happy to be a reference for him, or drive by my house
and
take a look for yourself at an example of his work. Kenneth Heisler [email protected]
July 2006
Jones Bezerra is a painter who has done good work at a reasonable price
for us. While he is primarily a painter, he can do just about anything
around the house. His contact info is cell: 240-388-1570; home:
703-660-6983.
[email protected]
Oct. 2006
Arturo Arauzo did a great job on the exterior of our house last year.
His crew is mostly his family and they did a quick, neat job for a good
price. He also painted the inside of another neighbor's house and they
liked the work as well. His contact is: 301-949-7363 or 301-403-5168 Ed
Mitre [email protected] Oct.
2006
PEST CONTROL SERVICES –
Alan Cohen of Bio-Logical Pest Management 237-7509. Used "organic"
approach to getting rid of wasps. Kelly Rubenstein [email protected]
I called the DC rat control office and they sent a guy out with heavy
duty rat poison. If that's a problem, call the GT exterminating people
at 338-KILL. They can set cages with bait, etc. They removed the
beavers from the Tidal Basin. [email protected]
I have used Terminix for years to deal with termites, and found them
very helpful and pleasant to deal with. Feel free to mention my name as
a long term customer when dealing with them. Lesley Shneier [email protected]
www.washingtondc.gov/mayor/customer_service/services/rat_abatement.shtm
“The Office of Vector Control is responsible for abating the current
rat population throughout the District. Areas with reported
infestations are investigated to determine the specific location of the
rat problem (alley, front yard, back yard) and treated depending on the
outcome of the inspection. Rat infestations should be reported
immediately to the Citywide Call Center at 727-1000. A service request
will be put into the Hansen tracking system, and the caller will
receive a service request number.” Buddy Yingling [email protected]
Bio-Pest Management: 202-237-750. They're very good and they try to use
nontoxic methods. Leonard Rosenbaum [email protected]
I have had excellent service from AT&R Trapping, run by Phil
Ardizzone, (301) 625-7900 or (301) 681-3965. He is wonderful and does
his best to humanely trap all kinds of animals. He regularly takes ones
that can be saved and releases them in appropriate areas. He also works
with the fabulous
wildlife rescue sanctuary in Gaithersburg called Second Chance Wildlife
Center (www.scwc.org).
You would be in excellent hands if you hired Phil and his company. Mary
Rowse
[email protected]
For your termite problem, I highly recommend DIXON Termite. Their phone
number is (202) 882-6565. John Hoke [email protected]
April 2005
I can recommend Ward Pest Control, 703-532-3506, for removing mice from
your home. They set out traps and carefully inspect the inside and
outside
of your home to find out where the mice are getting in, and then seal
those spaces. They will even come back to check the traps and remove
the dead mice.
We have also used the company for years for termite inspections, and
their
personnel are very responsible. Joanne Levine [email protected]
September
2005
I use Capitol Beltway Termite and Pest Control (tel: 301-657-4480) for
my home. They are located at 5455 Butler Rd, Bethesda, MD 20816 (behind
gas station near River Road and Little Falls Parkway). Susan Jaquet
December 2005
I recommend Alan Cohen, Biological Pest Management, Tenleytown cell:
202-237-7509; [email protected]; uses
nontoxic/less-toxic substances; reasonably priced - Leonard December
2005
PET SERVICES –
My two boys, Jake and Scot, take care of pets, shovel walks, cut grass,
etc. Jake is a senior at Wilson and Scot is at Deal. We live on Jenifer
St. and if you live nearby let me know. John Hoke [email protected]
March 2005
For another pet-sitting resource, we have used Animal Crackers for many
years now. Very trustworthy & attentive to your pets. (They will
also take out trash, turn lights on & off, water plants, etc.). You
can contact Beatrice at 202-321-1463. Melinda Halpert [email protected]
March 2005
We use Puppy Love Pet Sitter. The walker in AU Park is named Brian and
is very nice and very dependable. They charge $15 a walk for a half
hour walk with just your dog. The owner of the company is Josh and the
number is 337-8456. We've used Puppy Love now for 3 years (2 years in
Dupont and
one year here) and have never had any problems. [email protected]
If anyone is looking for a dog trainer, I have interviewed (and heard
good reports) about Bark Busters. You can read about the training
methods at www.barkbusters.com and The
Northwest Current ran a story about Bark Busters on January 25th. Bark
Busters was started in Australia and provides in home training
throughout the world. The Web site describes the method as mimicking
canine communication and relies on non-physical means. The method can
be used on any dog, any age, with any problem, and all training comes
with a life-of-the-dog guarantee. There is a dog behavior quiz on the
Web site. The local trainer is David Sundland at (577)-224-2239 or [email protected].
Gina Trippi [email protected] March 2006
My fabulous dog-walker (also my yoga teacher) is available to walk dogs
in upper northwest between 9 am and 5 pm. Modest grooming also
provided. Leave a message at 202/244-8093. Jo March [email protected]
March 2006
PIANO TEACHERS –
I highly recommend Ben Hansen as a piano teacher. He comes to my home
to teach my two kids but has several adult students as well. He plays
for a chorale, was classically trained at Yale and is a lovely guy.
FYI, he will give a trial lesson for free too. He can be reached at [email protected].
Carla Koppell August 2005
PICTURE FRAMING –
I would like to recommend a picture framer. Allen Custom Framing on
Wisconsin, right next to Krupins, is great. It's a family owned
business that's been framing for 90 years. They are fair and have a
great eye for just the right frame. Janice FitzGerald [email protected]
PLASTERERS –
I have used a fabulous plasterer, D.J. Cover, for about 30 years - he
is a first class master plasterer, retired from the Capitol and Library
of Congress. He does perfect work, is very good to work with and his
rates are reasonable, especially considering the first rate job he
performs. He can be reached at: 301-627-5032 or 301-627-1363. Please
tell him I recommended him to you. Many thanks. Barbara Dinsmore [email protected]
November 2006
PLUMBERS –
We have used Thomas Clark Plumbing for the last several years and have
been generally satisfied. Their # is 202 966-3900. [email protected]
– September 2004
I'll second Thomas Clark - I have also used them for several years - in
the spring, they replaced our garbage disposal and I've been happy with
it. Stacey Marien [email protected] – September
2004
Based on Tenleytown neighbors' recommendations, I had the Thomas C.
Clark Co. at my house last week and was not so impressed. I had two
outside faucets that could not be opened. The plumber said he would
have to break through walls to repair them. I said absolutely not.
Fortunately, the plumber's apprentice
agreed to take my suggestion: Loosen the faucets gently with a wrench
and
grease them. They now work fine. But had I acceded to the Clark
plumber's
recommendation, I'd be in for over $1,000 in plumbing and wall repair
costs.
I'll try another company next time I need a plumber. Aaron Epstein
We've been very happy with Joseph Bauer Plumbing. The guy who's always
sent to our place is named 'Kenny' -- he's been great. Steven Gross [email protected]
– September 2004
W.F. Collins at 301-654-9294. I ask for Doug Seiler – excellent
plumber.
Jose Bustillos is a plumber I know personally as well as through his
services. I highly recommend him. He is at: 301-674-6333. John B.
Mahaffie [email protected]
A very good plumber we have used for several years is John E. Barry Co.
They are in the yellow pages. Good work, fair to the consumer,
reasonable
rates and usually right on time. We have an old house which has needed
lots
of plumbing work (such as replacing water pipes) over the years. Cheryl
Browning [email protected]
My family has relied on Thomas E. Clark, Inc. for plumbing and heating
for 40 or 50 years. It is a fine firm, with reliable, well-trained
staff.
Recently the company gave us another reason to praise them: the hot
water
heater at my parents' house in Bethesda conked out. It is quite old, so
my dad figured it was time to replace it. He called Thos. Clark and
asked
them to send someone out with a new heater. When the plumber examined
the
old heater, he said there was a "pin-point leak," easily repaired at a
fraction of the cost of a new hot water heater. Thomas Clark can be
reached at 301-608-0550. Michele Bond [email protected]
Paul and I have used an independent plumber, Donald Schwartz,
301-596-7378, for several years. His truck is his office and shop. He
comes reasonably promptly, is pleasant, neat and effective, and charges
somewhat less than most plumbing companies do. You can phone me at
202-363-4581, or contact me by e-mail. Kay McClenon [email protected]
I recommend Andre Hargrave (202-465-2868), an independent plumber
recommended by the electrician we use, Kevin Rozier. Jeffrey Modell [email protected]
Apparently, my outdated recommendation for Andre Hargraves, a plumber,
ended up in the communit-e recommendations. I no longer recommend Andre
since he has been unreliable. Jeffrey Modell [email protected]
September 2005
I have used and heartily recommend a plumbing company named
Smallenbroek. Check their listing in the Yellow pages; their DC phone
number is 237-6400, I believe. Herb Hagerty [email protected]
I wanted to share the name of a really good plumber. He used to be with
a large company and has now started his own. He has solved many
plumbing "issues" for us in the past. His name is Matt Wilson and the
company is Flowright @ 202-543-8232. Very dependable, pleasant, neat
and affordable.
Ann Schweitzer August 2005
For several years we have been very happy with David Stang & Son,
301-926-1462. Joanne Levine [email protected]
December
2005
I have used W F Collins for twenty years, and they have never let me
down. Phone number is 301 654 9294. Talk to Maggie, she's wonderful.
Mention my name if you like. Margaret Beveridge [email protected]
December 2005
We use Matt at Flowright-great guy with good prices. 202-543-8232. [email protected]
Oct. 2006
Honest, reliable and my plumber for over 22yrs: Marbea 301 871-5642.
Doris Noble Doris Noble [email protected]
Oct. 2006
POWER-WASHING & DECK CLEANING –
Rony Sanchez 202-669-7046 and his family did excellent work painting
the interior of my home, powerwashing the exterior, painting the trim
to my home, and staining/sealing my deck. His bid price was
significantly lower than the next lowest bidder. His crew only works
nights and weekends, which is convenient for those who work during the
day. If you have questions, e-mail
me [email protected]. December
2004
I recently used Mardecks, who are located in Alexandria. They were
efficient, tidy and nice although I do recommend that you bargain with
them on the price.
We knocked off $50 off their initial quote after doing so. [email protected]
April 2003
REFERRAL SERVICES –
HOME CONNECTIONS, a free referral service for all kinds of home
repairs, etc. All of their referrals have been checked out, (kind of
like Washington Consumer Checkbook). 301-565-5902 OR 1-888-POINT-ME. I
have used a variety of service/repair people through them. [email protected]
I've seen many requests for contractor referrals that may or may not
have been addressed. With that in mind, I thought the community might
appreciate knowing that there is a local company, called Urban
Referrals, LLC, that exists to match homeowners and home improvement
professionals. There is no
cost for the referral, which is what caught my eye. I have used Urban
Referrals
for my roof repair/replacement, and it made the world of difference to
have
screened contractors recommended by a professional service. In case
anyone
is interested, here's the official description and contact information:
“Urban Referrals is an organized network of highly skilled,
pre-screened home repair and improvement specialists. They will connect
you to a multitude of professionals who can assist you with any large,
small or unique home projects such as home additions & renovations,
painting, interior design, landscaping, chimney repair/cleaning, home
computer systems and more! Best of all, there is no cost to the
homeowner for using Urban Referrals' service. Urban Referrals is
constantly updating their network of service providers and welcomes
contractor recommendations. Please contact Marla Selko at 202.332.0848
with any questions, job requests or contractor recommendations, or
visit Urban Referrals on the web at www.urbanreferrals.com.”
Email - [email protected]
Susan Baer [email protected] .
ROOFERS –
Jack's Roofing Company, Inc. 301-585-4985
Troy at D&M Roofing has been taking care of my steep slate roof,
and gutters, for years and done good work at acceptable prices. And
he's very reliable. His number: 301-948-0100. Lisa Berger Lberger728
In response to your request for a roofer, call John Gwynn on
301-530-6169. He is excellent and very reasonable. E-mail me if you
want additional info or references - you won't be disappointed. David
Howcroft [email protected]
I recommend: Maggio Roofing, 6476 Sligo Mill Rd., Takoma Park, MD
20912, 301-341-4666, Steve Piccirelli. John Canon [email protected]
We just had Association Management install a new flat roof and deck at
the rear of our house and were very pleased with the quality of their
job
and efficiency of their work (Association Management also had repaired
portions of our slate roof and cleans our gutters, both of which they
have done ably and inexpensively). Call 301/384-5677 and ask for
Richard (let him know the
Spigel's recommended you). Jeff Spigel [email protected]
I have another roofer recommendation -- just had mine done by Tomlinson
Company whose office is in Bethesda, but Tracy Tomlinson is our
neighbor and he was very helpful. They do slate roofing as well as
fiberglass (decided
I couldn't afford slate, but nice to know they can do it). Their phone
number is 301-913-9111. Mary McComb [email protected]
Someone on this list recommended D&M Roofing and I have had very
good luck with them. Ask for Troy - 301/948.0100. Joe Pinder [email protected]
We'd like to recommend Paul Hair with Action Roofing. Reliable, honest,
competitively priced, and outstanding workmanship are all hallmarks of
Mr. Hair. He has repaired and painted our roof, fixed leaky windows,
improved
our gutters (and even replaced old tiles on our porch at no charge).
Clearly,
he takes real pride in his work and is intent on building solid client
relationships, it is truly refreshing to work with him. Paul Hair can
be reached at (301) 275-1545 (cell) or (301) 292-6393. (changed to
6300?); also recommended by
Nancy LeRoy (3/03). Stephanie Hellerman [email protected]
As I recall, Maggio Roofing did a good job replacing an asphalt roof on
our Florida Room when I lived in AU Park. And the price was reasonable
too. -Buddy Yingling December 2005
I am pleased to recommend this young man who is reliable, honest and an
excellent worker. He is clean, quick, and a fine roofer. He is able to
spot trouble before it happens, and his repairs are great!!! His prices
are fair. George Ugaz, Superior Home Improvements, 547 Pelican Ave.,
Gaithersburg,
Md. 20877. Office (301) 963-0329; Home (301) 963-1528; Cell (301)
537-7957
Hope Phillips [email protected] January 2006
I wanted to recommend a really good roofer. He is: George Ugaz, 547
Pelican Ave, Gaithersburg MD 20877; 301-963-0329 (o), 301-537-7957
(cell). I found him right here in this newsletter a few weeks ago. He
did the evaluation and repair work and it was a perfect job. The price
was also very good. And
on top of all that, he is a nice guy. John Natali [email protected]
April 2006
I've used Samuel Boyd & Son Roofers for years and have always been
very happy with them. Phone is (301) 386-4800. GMarieW@[email protected]
January 2006
This is to serve as a very high recommendation of George Ugaz and his
staff of Superior Home Improvements as outstanding roofers! Not only is
George a pleasure to deal with, he is also highly professional, a good
communicator, on-time, and a very hard working individual. His staff
worked diligently in replacing a shingle roof on my home and garage, as
well as installing incredible new gutters. My house now looks as good
as new! I whole-heartedly recommend his business to anyone seeking
roofing, gutter replacement or cleaning,
painting or window replacement work. His information is as follows:
George
Ugaz Superior Home Improvements 301-963-0329 - office [email protected]
Bette Land [email protected] August
2006
I recommend George Ugaz, a great roofer. I had George out to my home
recently to take a look at a leak. He is very knowledgeable and it is a
pleasure to
do business with him; genuinely a nice guy. Hire with confidence. His
Office
number: 301-963-0329; Mobile number: 301-537-7957 [email protected]
Oct. 2006
SECURITY SERVICES –
I can recommend Satellite Industries, Inc. (located in Maryland). Their
installation representative knew what he was talking about, thoroughly
explained the options available, and seemed to have good common sense
about
what was really necessary and what was not. Their prices were very
competitive.
Laurence Groner [email protected]
SNOW SHOVELING –
My two boys, Jake and Scot, take care of pets, shovel walks, cut grass,
etc. Jake is a senior at Wilson and Scot is at Deal. We live on Jenifer
St. and if you live nearby let me know. JOHN HOKE [email protected]
March 2005
Try Sunrise Landscape Corp., 301-877-4001. They did a good job
shoveling out several neighbors' cars. Joanne Levine [email protected]
TAILORS & SEAMSTRESSES –
I'd like to recommend: Caterer, chef and home decor seamstress: Marla
Gooriah. A fabulous cook who has catered several parties for me - very
creative cuisine, generally with a multi-ethnic flair. Also is a great
seamstress of decorative window treatments, tablecloths, pillows, etc.
Very reasonable. (703) 354-7957 Joanne Capper [email protected]
There is a tailor on the south end of Mt. Pleasant Street who is good,
quick and inexpensive and it is next door to the Raven Bar & Grill.
- Roy Stewart December 2005
Good tailor - Kim's Alterations at 4115 Wisconsin Avenue, 2nd floor.
She is open Tues-Sat. (9.00am- 7.00pm, except Saturday, when she closes
at 5.00pm). -Mel Blecher December 2005
My cleaning establishment, Lee's Laundry, on Livingston St., NW off
Connecticut Ave. did a great job of mending my cashmere sweater. They
may have sent it
out. I don't know. But it looks great and as I remember was not
expensive. - Susan Ellis December 2005
TREE SERVICES –
We and our neighbors just split the cost of having their tree (which
was very much overhanging our yard) trimmed. I highly recommend Tony
Smith of Smitty's Tree Service. He was very tolerant of the frequent
scheduling
changes that were necessitated by working around four peoples'
schedules
and his work was quick and tidy. His number is 1-800-406-7147. [email protected]
– May 2004
Wayne Anderson at 301-926-6281. Laura Akgulian [email protected]
I have found that Woodacres does excellent work at very reasonable
prices. Telephone 301-949-4100. Lesley Shneier [email protected]
The best & most reasonable tree man that I've used for many years
[I have a bunch of trees on a double lot and many friends &
neighbors who use him] is Tony Smith of "Smitty's Tree Service." His
number is 1-800-406-7147. He's insured and all that stuff, and his
prices are great. Richard Bienvenue [email protected]
For anyone whose trees need work or removal, I recommend M&M Tree
Service, owned by David Merritt, Jr. His rates are reasonable, his work
is professional, he and his crew are polite and punctual. Phone free
877-520-1515. Kay McClenon [email protected]
We used Ace Tree Movers, 301-258-0008, to remove a 20 ft holly tree
from our yard. They did an incredible job, very quick & cleaned up
well. And, the best part, is they did it for free, because they then
turn around & sell the tree. Highly recommended. Karen & Dan
Rosenthal [email protected]
I had a good experience with L&L Tree Service run by Kenny Lantinga
1-540-825-2164 or 1-540-825-4194. I did some background checking and
had him get me copies of his insurance and bonding documents. It all
checked out and his insurance was enough that if the tree had fallen
and destroyed
my house, it would be covered. Once the contract was signed and set,
the
crew arrived two minutes early and promptly did the job for slightly
more
than half the estimate of a well-known tree company that I had earlier
considered.
John Watson [email protected]
TUTORS –
Here is a great recommendation for a tutor. Does your student need help
with math, reading, study skills, homework and more? Certified teacher
with Masters in Education can help. Full Time classroom teacher working
with children who have learning disabilities. Travel included in cost
of tutoring. $40.00 an hour. Call Colleen at 202-399-0041. Jennifer
Rose [email protected]
UPHOLSTERS –
Yi's Custom Upholstery in Rockville - (301) 770-3687, 12200 Parklawn
Drive. Absolutely recommended - we have used 3 times, referred people -
always happy.
Has warehouse with tons of rolls of fabric, in addition to swatch
books.
Very good prices. Fast turn around, pickup & delivery when they say
they will. Katherine Mitchell [email protected]
June 24, 2004
I also want to thank those folks who recommended Yi’s in Rockville for
upholstering. They did several chairs for me and I am very pleased with
their work. They have an impressive selection of fabrics. Kathy Smith [email protected]
March 2006
WET BASEMENTS –
We used Aquaguard, and they did a good job. They were not the least
expensive, but, they seemed to know their stuff. I don't recall the
exact details of the warranty, but it was as good or better than
others. Before the waterproofing, we had LOTS of water in our small
basement. We haven't had any since. [email protected]
May 24, 2005
Check out B-DRY also. We used this company and were satisfied. Many of
our neighbors have also used B-Dry. Constantia Dedoulis [email protected]
May 2005
I had good luck several years ago, when I had a wet basement problem,
with Turf Center Lawns in Spencerville, MD. Phone: 301-384-9300.
Despite their name, they looked at where the water from my roof and my
neighbor's roof was going, how the land around the house sloped, etc.
I wanted to recommend AquaGuard for anyone looking for a professional
firm to assess a wet basement. Their representative came to my house
for a free and thorough assessment; identified my problem; told me that
the "fix" wouldn't require his services (which start at $3,500), and
made an excellent referral for someone who could do the work at a much,
much smaller price. [email protected] November
2005
WINDOW REPAIR & REPLACEMENT -
Try Jose Vallejo 966-4771. [email protected] – Nov. 2004
I'd recommend getting window replacements through PEPCO. They're a bit
expensive, but they're fast and extremely professional, and the windows
are wonderful and high-quality and look wonderful. Josh Mendelsohn [email protected]
Oct. 2004
Blaines Windows at 301-933-1310 -- for all types of window repairs.
We had windows installed by Capital Investments/Improvements (301)
699-6161 and were very pleased. Work was completed on six windows in a
matter of hours
and the windows work beautifully. The cost was reasonable. [email protected]
We had our windows replaced by Pella/KC Windows in Bethesda. The sales
person was Yetta Rushford 240-508-7203. They did a good job. Gail
Rebhan [email protected]
We used Renewal by Anderson for window replacements. The people who
installed them were amazingly efficient, able, quick and tidy - a
tremendous contrast to many of our home maintenance experiences. And we
really like our windows. Email me if you'd like to take a look. Johanna
Turner [email protected] July
2004
I highly recommend Blaine Windows - they are in Silver Spring. They
service and replaced my windows in my old house and they installed new
basement windows
in my new house as well as putting in a screen door with a cat door.
Stacey
Marien@[email protected]
October 2005
I heartily recommend Quality Windows and Doors, Inc. Unlike the three
other firms we contacted, the salesman put on no pressure, answered
questions honestly
and readily, the price was the best of the four, and the workers did
the
job well and replaced all the windows in our house (13 of them!) in one
day. - Boris Weintraub December 2005
WINDOW WASHERS –
I would like to recommend Kirk Weaver at 301-762-5496 or 301-774-7258.
Wanda Avila [email protected]
Window Washers at 337-0351. Fred and Betty Bullock [email protected]
I use "We do Windows," at 301 946-3697. Willie Schatz [email protected]
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