Connie Moser wanted something to brag about when it came to her Lindendale neighborhood.
So when the spate of foreclosures hit Dale City last summer, Moser created the Beautiful Yard Award.
"I spent so much time talking about how bad things looked and reporting code violations, I felt it was impor-tant to find some positive news to share with my community," Moser stated in an e-mail.
Each month, four or five houses are nominated by the Lindendale Community Group, headed up by Moser. The houses can be via suggestion or just what catches the group's eye, said Moser.
The selections are posted on the community Web site and then voted on. August's winner was Ken and Deb-orah Caudill. Previous winners include Gwen and James Moore and Yvonne Sullivan.
"No one needs to be a great landscaper, as long as the property is neat and attractive," Moser stated.
Each winner is awarded gift certificates valued from $30 to $50. The winners also receive a framed certificate, have the Beautiful Yard Award sign placed in their yard for 30 days and are featured on the Web site.
Moser funds the project through gift certificates from her neighbor after she cuts her grass.
"I will not take any money for mowing, so he gives me gift certificates at Christmas," Moser said. "I divide those and use them for gifts for the Beautiful Yard Awards."
Moser plans on keeping the project going through October. For those interested in the contest or want to know more about the Lindendale Community Group, visit http://lindendalecommunity.home.comcast.net/~lindendalecommunity.
The Web site features links to several civic associations, as well as forms to report issues like code violations or graffiti. Currently, Moser has 65 residents on her e-mailing list.
Staff writer Kipp Hanley can be reached at 703-878-8062.
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