Zebra Press June 2025

was just replaced. The finished lower level has a full bath, LV Plank flooring, outside egress and additional storage room. Off street parking included.Del Ray

Inside This Issue

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Pride. It’s in the air this time of year—and for good reason.

Students are tossing their mortarboards sky-high, celebrating the end of high school, college, or even graduate school. Their hard work has paid off, and the joy is contagious. But it’s not just students earning recognition right now.

As you’ll see in our cover story, the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce has honored 40 of our city’s brightest rising stars stars (and student youth honoree)—leaders making a difference in their fields and in the community. The Alexandria Sportsman’s Club was hosting its annual awards event while we were readying for the presses (check our website for the full recap and list of winners), and the Scholarship Fund of Alexandria awarded more than $700,000 in scholarships to 215 deserving seniors at Alexandria City High School on May 27.

I had the privilege of being in the auditorium for that incredible moment. One by one, each senior walked across the stage to re-

ceive their scholarship, their names called proudly by the presenters. The energy was electric. Students beamed, parents sat tall in the back rows, some holding back tears, and the entire room radiated a powerful sense of hope. Many of the recipients were first-generation Americans or the first in their family to go

to college.

I was honored to present the Living Legends of Alexandria’s “Future Legend of Alexandria” scholarship, and that name truly captured the spirit of the day. Right now, all around us, the future leaders and legends of Alexandria are stepping into the spotlight.

As Dr. Seuss so wisely said, “Oh, the places you’ll go!”

And now, please dive into our 80page edition, packed with uplifting stories from around the community—spotlighting the arts, real estate, local nonprofits, the vibrant food scene, and so much more.

P.S. Don’t miss a beat—follow us online for daily stories and event announcements, and sign up for our FREE good news newsletter delivered to your inbox four times a week. Want the Z ebra in print at home? Use code NEIGHBOR for $10 off your subscription at thezebra.

Mary Wadland

CAMPAGNA CENTER NAMES EDITH HAWKINS NEW CEO

ployee of the Campagna Center, will return as its CEO. She will succeed Dr. Tammy Mann, who gave a farewell speech at the Center’s 80th anniversary celebration.

Hawkins was the nonprofit’s first chief program officer from 2014 to 2022. During her first ten ure, she established part-

serve as the executive vice president at the Forum for Youth Investment.

Hawkins begins her new role on June 2. Mann, who has held the position for more than a decade, announced her plan to retire last fall.

Reduce Your Energy Bill With Solarize Alexandria

Do you know that using solar energy in your home can save you money? It’s true. It can cut the cost of your electric bill.

Homeowners and businesses can receive a free assessment of their property through Solarize Alexandria, which is in its 11th year. Running through July 15, people can sign up for that free assessment and discounted prices from installation companies.

Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week Starts June 7

Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week is from June 7 to 15. Alexandria will promote the waterway’s history and preservation. The city is inviting people to take part in the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s annual Clean the Bay Day.

“By working with trusted, vetted solar installers, Solarize Virginia offers competitive pricing and discounts, making solar power more affordable than ever,” reads an Alexandria eNews bulletin.

“Homeowners can save even more with a 30% federal solar tax credit and a City property tax exemption.”

GAS-POWERED LEAF BLOWERS BANNED

In mid-May, the Alexandria City Council passed an ordinance banning the use of gas-powered leaf blowers in the city. The move makes Alexandria the first jurisdiction in Virginia to prohibit them. It follows feedback from residents and an opinion from Virginia’s Attorney General that states the city can regulate gas-powered leaf blowers through its noise ordinance. The ordinance establishes an 18-month phase-out period for residents and businesses, while city government operations will transition away from gas-powered leaf blowers within one year.

Sign up at solarizeva. org/nova.

The Department of Transportation and Environmental Services is hosting a cleanup event in our area on Saturday, June 7, from 9 to 11 a.m. Taking place at Oronoco Bay Park (100 Madison St.), city staff will hand out gloves, trash grabbers, and bags, and will have first aid kits onsite. Feel free to bring sunscreen, snacks, and water. Be sure to wear appropriate clothing.

In addition to the cleanup, you can also protect the Bay by keeping pet waste out of storm drains, keeping Alexandria litter-free, and reducing or completely eliminating the use of lawn fertilizer.

Photo: iStock.com/monstArrr

Help clean up the Chesapeake Bay on June 7.

Courtesy photo

Edith Hawkins begins her tenure as the leader of Campagna Center on June 2.

Photo: Pixabay

Work with a vetted installer to install solar panels on your home.

Photo: iStock.com/Smileus City Council has banned gas-powered leaf blowers.

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall replica is constructed of Avonite, a synthetic granite, and an aluminum frame supports its 140 numbered panels. Machine engraving of the more than 58,000 names, along with modern LED lighting, provides readability of The Wall day and night.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial Replica Coming to Alexandria June 12–15

WITH NATIONAL MALL CLOSED, MASONIC MEMORIAL STEPS UP

BY MARY WADLAND

The Wall That Heals, a three-quarter scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, along with a mobile Education Center, will be on display in Alexandria from June 12 to 15.

“As a result of closures of streets and the National Mall for the military parade on June 14 in Washington, D.C., the largest annual event held at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial was displaced. Fortunately, the George Washington Masonic National Memorial eagerly stepped forward to bring the sanctity and peaceful nature of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial to the thousands of family and friends gathering to honor their Vietnam veterans,” said Jim

Knotts, president and CEO of VVMF.

The exhibit will be located on the grounds of the George Washington Masonic National Memorial and will be open 24 hours a day, free to the public.

The Wall honors the more than three million Americans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces during the Vietnam War and bears the names of the 58,281 men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice.

The accompanying mobile Education Center features digital photo displays of local service members, educational exhibits, and artifacts from the original memorial in Washington, D.C.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 75

While the Wall is in town, photographs of service members listed on The Wall from Alexandria and nearby counties will be showcased.

Photo: Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund

COAST GUARD AUXILIARY CHECKS KAYAKS AHEAD OF FOUR MILE RUN CLEANUP

For the fourth consecutive year, Four Mile Run Conservatory Foundation President Kurt Moser invited U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 25-08 (Mount Vernon) to conduct a free annual inspection of the Foundation’s fleet of 18 kayaks. This check ensured they were in working order for upcoming trash cleanups of the historic Four Mile Run.

For advertising information call 703-919-7533 or email sales@thezebrapress.com

“The Foundation, whose kayaks passed inspection again, is demonstrating a genuine commitment to recreational boating safety by ensuring its volunteers, including school children, are safe when they venture on this Potomac tributary,” said Bob Ivy, Commander of Flotilla 25-08. “Regardless of whether a watercraft is powered by paddle, motor, or sail, its hull must be free of holes or cracks that can compromise its flotation, and its operator, crew, and passengers

each need to have a life jacket.”

Auxiliarists are civilian volunteers who support the Coast Guard in promoting recreational boating safety, assisting at special events on the water, and performing other vital maritime tasks, including conducting vessel safety checks.

Request a vessel safety check or join the Auxiliary by visiting cgaux.org.

Photo: John Stevens

Four Mile Run Conservation Foundation President Kurt Moser and John Milkiewicz, 25-08’s Vice Flotilla Commander, hold the 2025 vessel safety sticker.

Campagna Center Celebrates 80th Anniversary With Gala PRESIDENTAND CEOTAMMY MANN BIDS FAREWELL

BY SUSAN MCLAIN SULLIVAN

Amid toasts to a banner year of service to the Alexandria community, board members and numerous supporters bid farewell to Dr. Tammy Mann, who has served as the president and CEO of  Campagna Center, at its “Lighting the Way 80 th Anniversary Gala” held at historic River Farm on Friday, May 9. The event raised $250,000.

With warm smiles and tears, Mann greeted the board members, guests, and family members who all expressed sincere appreciation to the long-serving leader as she stood on the front lawn overlooking the placid Potomac River.

Board Chair Stephanie Wiggins praised Mann for her energy and ambition throughout Mann’s 13

Prior to the gala, Mann sat with The Zebra to reflect on on her tenure.

Zebra:

What do you identify as the most significant of your accom-

plishments?

Dr. Mann: Persisting through the ups and downs of what it takes to really strengthen the capacity of the organization to have impact. I am especially grateful that we were able to succeed in renovating our headquarters to have the ability to deliver services from a historic facility that what was in desperate need of repair.

Zebra: Describe some high and low points of your tenure.

Among the high points:

Dr. Mann: Seeing and hearing directly from parents who talked about the difference our programs were making in the lives of their children – both for our youngest learners and those mov-

years of service to Campagna Center while gala guests listened and rose for a standing ovation.

“As Dr. Mann prepares to tran-

sition from her role, the Board is deeply grateful for her leadership and service,” said Wiggins. “The organization is well positioned fi-

A BRIEF INTERVIEW

ing through elementary, middle and high school

Learning about the stories of staff members who started out as children we served and who made the choice to come back and become a Campagna Team member because of the impactful experiences they had with our staff.

Connecting with other nonprofit leaders for the benefit of making it easier for parents to access preschool services.

Low Point:

Dr. Mann: COVID without question was one of the hardest

nancially and otherwise to move our mission forward given the impact of

moments to lead through. Campagna has always had an incredible village of support and it would have been extremely difficult to get through that moment without that village.

Zebra: Finally, how do you view your legacy as you part Campagna Center?

Dr. Mann: To be honest, I have not thought much about my personal legacy. I hope that as people think about me and the time that I have spent at Campagna they will see me as someone who believed deeply in the mission of the organization, and as someone who worked tirelessly to help inspire and engage others to do the same. My hopes for Campagna is that she will continue to soar, just as we did when we faced a worldwide pandemic and found a way to pivot to ensure that those we served had access to the tools and resources needed to thrive.

Photo: Campagna Center

Dr. Tammy Mann in an undated photo.

Dr. Mann speaks with Kathleen Diamond and Robert Beckwith at the start of the Campagna Center’s 80 th Anniversary Gala.

Dr. Mann with the Campagnas

All photos: Susan Sullivan

Scene Around Town

and Harry Francis at an art exhibit hosted by the

ABOVE: Mayor Alyia Gaskins presented a City Proclamation at Woodbine Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center to honor National Skilled Nursing Care Week, May 11-17. The residents enjoyed cake for the celebration.

Photos by Lucelle O’Flaherty unless noted otherwise

LEFT: Coldwell Banker Realtor Mary Ann Burstein is flanked by Artist Cassie Womack

Old Town Coldwell Banker office.

LEFT: Musician John David Coppola of Combo Indigo took a break from performing to greet Mark Morrow, who enjoyed his pizza and beer at Lena’s Wood-Fired Pizza and Tap Beer Garden.

BELOW: The Arnold family: Madeline, Dave, and Sherrie spotted in Old Town.

ABOVE: Jane Marcus was the guest of Board Member Maryanne Beatty at the Garden Party-themed dinner fundraiser and silent auction for Mount Vernon at Home.

RIGHT: Julie Chapman, Founder and President of ALX Dog Walk, with her husband Greg and son Steven at a reception. They thanked their volunteers at The Royal Restaurant in Old Town North on the dog-friendly patio.

LEFT: Alexandria Commonwealth’s Attorney Bryan Porter, flanked by his parents Bonnie and John Porter, at a party in Rosemont.

Bill and Julie Howard had lunch at Table Talk, where they picked up a Zebra newspaper. Steven Phillips and Carole Wright at Affordable Signs.

Kathi Trepper and Charles Sims enjoyed a day in Old Town.

PLUMBING

• Drain Cleaning

• Water Heaters

• Water Treatment

• Gas Lines

• Bathroom Plumbing

• Commercial Plumbing

• Sewer Services

• Tankless Water Heater

• Water Leaks

• Kitchen Plumbing

HEATING

• Heater & Furnace Repair

• Heater Maintenance

• Heater & Furnace Replacement

• Heat Pump Services

• Boilers

”Friendly

”We

COOLING (A/C)

• Air Conditioning Repair

• Air Conditioning Maintenance

• Ductless Mini Splits

• Air Conditioning Installation

• Thermostat

• Indoor Air Quality

Around the World – Dailey-Style! Cape Horn

BY MARY WADLAND

Norman and Susan Dailey have taken copies of Zebra around the globe, capturing snapshots with the paper in hand at nearly every stop. Though we haven’t always had space to publish all their photos, their latest journey spanned so many countries—

and included pictures from each—that we’re honoring their dedication with a full page this month.

“We’ve been traveling for years, crossing off countries and territories from the Travelers Century Club list.  We are currently at 260 out of 330. We started sharing our adventures through The Zebra in the Decem-

ber 2018 issue while in Zambia. Since then, we’ve contributed to 16 issues, though we’ve missed the deadline on 10 submissions. We really enjoy The Zebra when we are home, especially for keeping up with the local restaurants and all the happenings around town.”

—Norman and Susan Dailey

All photos: The Dailey Collection

Cape Horn

Punta del Este

Uruguay

Colchagua Valley, Chile

Oceania Marina cruise excursion

West Falkland

Ushuaia, Argentina

Punta Arenas, Chile

Puerto Madero

Torres del Paine, Chile

Peninsula de Valdes

Kyoto

Around the World With Zebra

Send us your photos from around the globe, and we will publish them in the upcoming issue. Next time you take a trip, domestic or international, snap a pic and send to editor@thezebrapress.com with ZEBRA AROUND THE WORLD in the subject line, along with a descriptive caption.

LEFT:

“Greetings from Amsterdam!”

—John David Coppola

LEFT: “We traveled from Greece through Monterey, Croatia, Slovenia, and Venice to Mauritius, waving the Zebra flag everywhere.”Gregg and Monica Murphy stand at the Acropolis in Athens, Greece.

RIGHT: Serge and Donna Duss (Old Town North) traveled to Strasbourg, France to visit with granddaughter and Alexandria City High School Class of 2022 graduate, Ana Duss (Rosemont), who is studying at the Syracuse University Strasbourg campus. Pictured in front of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-Strasbourg.

Serving Alexandria since 1990 We live here. We design here.

We partner with you to enhance any space or create the home of your dreams, using everything from window treatments, furnishings, and upholstery to art, rugs, and lighting.

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LEFT: Anne and Steve Shively cruising on the Duoro River in Portugal.

Former Congressman and Mayor Jim Moran Marries

BY KEVIN DAURAY AND SUSAN MCLAIN SULLIVAN

On his 80 th birthday, May 16, former Congressman and Alexandria Mayor Jim Moran married Deborah Warren. The couple have known each other since 1985.

They invited 225 guests to the ceremony, held at their home in McLean. The floral arrangements were provided by longtime friend Royce Cohen, and Mindy’s Catering handled the food.

Moran popped the question on New Year’s Eve, 2018.

“We were really meant to connect at some point in our lives, and we’re lucky it was later,” Warren said. “Love in later years can happen to you, and life is short and it’s important to be with people you love.”

When they met four decades ago, Warren had been hired by the City of Alexandria to provide mental health services.

Moran was in his first year as mayor, a position he held for five years, before being elected as the U.S. representative for the fifth congressional district in 1991.

Over the decades, they ran into each other at various events. In 2010, Warren received a call from Moran. They went out to dinner and have been together ever since.

Courtesy photos

The ceremony was held at the couple’s McLean home.

Photo: Neshan H. Naltchayan

The new bride and groom—Deborah Warren and Jim Moran—tie the knot at their home in McLean.

The color blue was everywhere – from the flowers to the table settings.

Jim Moran and Deborah Warren married on May 16. They have known each other for 40 years.

CAMPAGNA

FROM PAGE 8

her work.”

Following those heartfelt remarks, Mann stood and took the microphone, returning the gratitude expressed by others throughout the event.

“No CEO succeeds without the support of a strong board of directors,” Mann said.“We are Campagna strong at 80 because of your support and energy!”

Campagna Center has enjoyed growth and expansion under her leadership. When she joined, the organization had just integrated New Neighbors - a program supporting immigrants and refugees to learn English - into its fold.

During her tenure, Campagna Center established a network of family child care providers to expand the availability of infant and toddler care for under-resourced families. In 2017 the agency integrated Wright to Read, a literacy program aimed at helping elementary students become proficient readers, One year later, the Early Learning Center opened to expand access to preschool through a partnership with AHC Inc.

Last year the Center supported 2,495 children, a 66% increase over its reach in 2012. One of Mann’s most significant accomplishments involved restoring the place Campagna has called home since 1981. Renovations were made possible through  Forward Together, a $6.7 million capital campaign.

Many of the attendees shared that has the outgoing CEO has always been deeply committed to the power of collaboration. They saluted her for understanding that achieving great things for children and youth requires collective effort - something she has demonstrated by participating in city initiatives.

Mann served as the first Chair of the Collaborative Commission on Children, Youth, and Families. This commission created the city’s first Children and Youth Master Plan. She helped make early care and education more accessible to families

in our community by serving on Alexandria’s Early Care and Education Work group. That entity became Kids’ First Years; she proudly serves on its board.

In addition to local efforts, Mann also maintained her involvement in state and national initiatives. In 2018 she was appointed to serve on the Virginia Board of Education. In 2020 the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce named her Business Leader of the Year.

“As I prepare to step into my next chapter, I am beyond grateful for the many wonderful people I have met along the way,” said Mann. “Any measure of success I have realized during my time with Campagna has been possible because of the village–my board, the staff, supporters, and community partners–that embraced my leadership and my heart for service. For that I will always be forever grateful.”

Where Horsepower Meets Heart: Speed, Style, and Philanthropy Take Over Old Town

BY ELIZA NELA

For one weekend each spring, the historic roads of Old Town Alexandria come alive with car enthusiasts and classics like the Italian V12s, Jaguars, and more. But beneath the style and the glamour, the Old Town Festival of Speed & Style is more than a celebration of automotive specialties, it is a community-driven engine powered by vision, resilience, and purpose.

At the heart of it stands Rick Myllenbeck, a retired Navy Captain, former Silicon Valley communications executive, and restaurateur.

The Humble Visionary

Myllenbeck's vision sparked what has grown into one of the region’s most stylish cultural events that began in 2019.

The Old Town Festival of Speed & Style draws tens of thousands each year, featuring rare and exotic cars, fashion showcases, and charitable endeavors that have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for Alexandria-based nonprofits.

What began as an idea inspired by European conqueror events has matured into a cornerstone of the city’s annual cultural calendar.

“This isn’t just about cars,” Myllenbeck has said. “It’s about bringing people together, and doing good while we’re at it.”

Myllenbeck’s journey toward this enterprise started long before the first Ferrari rolled down King Street.

After a distinguished 42-year career in the U.S. Navy and Navy Reserve, which included deployments during Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, Myllenbeck retired as a Captain (O-6) in 2018. His civilian career ran parallel, marked by decades of innovation leadership in Silicon Valley, including at Apple Computer during its formative years.

But it wasn’t just tech and tactics that shaped him. In 2015, he and his wife, Beth, opened Sonoma Cellar, a wine-centric restaurant tucked into a historic Old Town building. Bring-

Photo: Eliza Nela

Rick Myllenbeck arrives at the High-Octane Ball, setting the tone for an evening of elegance and purpose.

Photo: Eliza Nela

Shelli Vasser Gilliam of Community Lodgings attends the gala in celebration of its charitable mission.

Photo: John Canery

The Yates family poses beside their newly acquired Garibaldi painting, a centerpiece of the evening’s successful charity auction.

Photo: John Canery

Board members Jason May, Rick Myllenbeck, and Ralf Berthiez gather during the gala in support of local charities.

Photo: Eliza Nela

Loren and Jason Yates pause for a photo amid the excitement of the High-Octane Ball.

Photo: John Canery

Alexandria Fine Rugs welcomed visitors drawn in by the festival, blending automotive design with artisan craftsmanship.

The Cars

1967 Mercedes-Benz 250SE Coupe

Todd and Mark O’Leary, arriving in timeless fashion, posed beside their 1967 Mercedes-Benz 250SE Coupe, a pillarless icon of postwar European luxury.

Powered by a 2.5-liter inline-six engine and noted for its elegant W111 chassis design, the car epitomizes pre-AMG era refinement. As The Doors’ “Light My Fire” lingers in the air, it’s a nod to the era’s unfiltered cool and a car that still smolders with understated charisma.

1998 Aston Martin DB7 Vantage Coupe

Jackie and Joe Haggerty channel pure Bond energy beside their 1998 Aston Martin DB7 Vantage, a muscular British coupe that combined heritage with then-modern Ford-backed innovation. Its 5.9-liter V12 delivers 420 horsepower, cloaked in the kind of leather-and-walnut luxury MI6 would approve of. As Chris Cornell’s “You Know My Name” pulses, so too does the quiet power of Aston’s enduring mystique.

1967 Pontiac GTO Convertible

The Yates family — Jason, Loren, Jason Jr., and their red fox Labrador, Nacho—strike a classic pose in front of Loren’s 1967 red Pontiac GTO Convertible during the 6th Annual Old Town Festival of Speed & Style. Often hailed as the original muscle car, this GTO features a 400-cubic inch V8 and embodies American automotive swagger in its golden age. As owners of Yates Automotive, the family brings both horsepower and heart to the community’s celebration of speed, style, and legacy. When it comes to stepping up for the Alexandria community, few do so with as much heart and as little fanfare as the Yates family of Yates Automotive. Whether it’s sponsoring local events, lending a helping hand, or launching grassroots efforts like the Give Your Two Cents campaign, their commitment is consistent and deeply personal.

“I’ve known Jason Yates for nearly 30 years, and his philosophy has always been about serving the customer and the community,” said Linda McKenna, a longtime colleague and friend. “He doesn’t just talk about making a difference, he actively invests in it. From sponsoring the High-Octane Ball to countless acts of kindness I’ve witnessed over the years, Jason leads by example.”

At this year’s Festival of Speed & Style, the Yates family didn’t just show up, they made a statement, both with their signature red 1967 Pontiac GTO Convertible and their unwavering support for the event’s charitable mission. In a town built on tradition and trust, the Yates name continues to stand for both.

2025 Land Rover Defender 110 X-Dynamic SE

1957 AC Ace Bristol (Chassis AEX 142)

Alex Leventhal accepts the Chairman’s Award for the Straylight Collection’s 1957 AC Ace Bristol, chassis #AEX 142 . A rare example of British racing heritage reborn. Originally campaigned in U.S. races during the late 1950s, AEX 142 underwent a meticulous restoration in the early 1990s and went on to win its class at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in 1994. After years of quiet stewardship, it returned to action in 2024, completing the grueling California Mille and then driving cross-country to Maryland, an odyssey that mirrors the endurance and elegance that define this storied marque.

Zeinab Ibrahim and Kevin Alexandre with the latest 2025 Land Rover Defender, blending iconic British off-road capability with contemporary luxury. The 110 X-Dynamic SE model shown here boasts a turbocharged inline-six mild hybrid engine and Terrain Response 2 system for effortless adaptation, whether on Bond’s escape route or Alexandria’s brick streets. Set to Felix da Housecat’s remix of Nina Simone’s “Sinnerman”

1957 Jaguar XK140 Drophead Coupe

Sarah Lysaker and Drew Altizer accompanied the 1957 Jaguar XK140 Drophead Coupe —a sleek, open-top grand tourer that helped define British motoring excellence. With a 3.4-liter straight-six engine capable of 190 hp and handcrafted woodand-leather interior detailing, the XK140 is every bit as cinematic as “Skyfall” itself.

Photo: Eliza Nela

Photo: Eliza Nela

Photo: John Canery

Photo: John Canery

Photo: Lucelle O'Flaherty

Photo: Eliza Nela

1997 Ferrari F355 Spider

Adrian Kamel and Holly Ahrens bring rock-star attitude to the red carpet in their 1997 Ferrari F355 Spider, a V8-powered Italian masterpiece that marked a turning point in Ferrari’s design evolution. Its 3.5-liter engine revs to a symphonic 8,250 rpm, pushing 375 hp through a gated six-speed manual transmission. With U2’s “Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me, Kill Me”

SPEED & STYLE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

ing California’s flavors eastward, the restaurant quickly became popular with locals, something that would become a motif in Myllenbeck’s many projects.

More Than a Car Festival

The Festival of Speed & Style does what few modern festivals can: it activates both the aesthetics and purpose.

Local businesses, particularly those along King Street, report a measurable boost. “The Old Town Festival of Speed & Style didn’t just pack King Street with gleaming sheet-metal, it pulled people into unexpected places, including our corner showroom at Alexandria Fine Rugs,” said Douglas Christian, a Capitol Hill correspondent who also works at the rug store part time. Christian described a kind of retail cross-pollination. “Classic-car fans spotted vintage Persian and Caucasian rugs rolled out on the brick sidewalk. Dozens stepped inside ‘just for a peek,’ and many stayed to swap restoration tips or admire the symmetry between automotive and textile design.”

The festival, he said, turned casual foot traffic into something more intimate. “We logged sev-

Rick Myllenbeck shares a moment with performance artist

2002 BMW Z8 Roadster

Caitlyn De Witt, Abaya Ibrahim, and Gaëtan George arrive in high style with their 2002 BMW Z8 , a neo-retro homage to the 1950s 507 roadster and one of the most collectible BMWs ever produced. Beneath the sculpted aluminum body lies a 4.9-liter V8 borrowed from the M5, good for 400 hp and a 0–60 mph time under 5 seconds. With Nelly Furtado’s “Maneater” as backdrop, this machine is every bit as bold and beautiful as its legacy suggests.

eral same-day sales from first-time visitors, with one rug selling for $4,000. Even the shop owner, Michael Fadaifar, stepped outside to greet passersby. It became a celebration for everyone.”

A Festival With a Purpose

It’s easy to mistake the festival for a high-style auto show. But beneath the aesthetics lies a profitable charitable machine. The event operates under a 501(c)(3) structure, with a core mission to support Alexandria-based nonprofits, particularly those focused on health, housing, and youth.

Beneficiaries this year were ALIVE!, Community Lodgings, and the National Breast Center

“It’s an honor to be selected as a beneficiary of support from the High Octane and Speed & Style event, knowing that every dollar raised fuels real change for families in our community,”

Lynn Thomas, Executive Director of Community Lodgings. “At Community Lodgings, we believe that stable housing and strong support systems are the foundation for brighter futures—and this event brings us one step closer to that vision.”

The event has become a key revenue stream for these nonprofits and a critical platform for community visibility and its many causes.

This year’s High-Octane Ball, the festival’s gala event held on Saturday evening, raised tens of thousands of dollars in a sin-

gle night, thanks in part to a live painting auction by renowned performance artist David Garibaldi. The painting, which depicted a car specially created for the event, sold for $10,000 to the Yates family.

While the Sunday showcase may be Rick Myllenbeck’s brainchild, the High-Octane Ball is very much the work of Beth Myllenbeck. Since its inception, she has led the Committee and shaped the identity of the gala, from the annual theme and decor to music, food, layout, and fashion.

This year’s “Casino Royale” theme brought James Bond elegance to Land Rover Alexandria’s showroom. Last year’s Austin Powers–inspired event was equally well-received. Behind the scenes, Beth handled everything from communications and venue coordination to decor alterations and catering logistics, often down to the final detail.

A high school social studies teacher with the Department of Defense Education background, and a former restaurateur herself, Beth brings both vision and operational discipline to the event. Volunteers describe her work as indispensable.

“She’s involved in everything, models, food, lighting, the experience,” said one committee member. “Beth doesn’t just help run the ball. She makes it happen.”

Style, Speed, and Substance

There’s something to be said about the vehicles themselves, symbols of craftsmanship, innovation, and human aspiration. This is not lost on Myllenbeck, whose own collection includes a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTE 2+2, a car he has owned for more than 40 years.

But the Festival of Speed & Style, he insists, is not about the cars alone. It’s about what they create when brought together and the foot traffic they generate every year.

Looking Down the Road

Now in its sixth year, the festival shows no signs of slowing. Its scope continues to grow, incorporating more fashion partnerships, youth programming, and regional tourism initiatives. But even as it evolves, its foundation remains clear.

It’s a festival built on intention and collaboration.

Photo: Eliza Nela

Beth Myllenbeck addresses gala guests, recognizing the collective impact of their generosity.

David Garibaldi before the live auction begins.

Photo: Eliza Nela

Photo: Eliza Nela

Photo: John Canery

BY ELIZA NELA

David Garibaldi Brings Art to the High-Octane Ball

It took David Garibaldi a matter of minutes to create his painting. In a blur of paint, swift movement, and music, the lauded performance painter transformed a blank canvas into an electrifying image of a luxury sports car live, on stage, and in front of hundreds of tuxedoed and gowned guests at the sixth annual High-Octane Ball, held on May 17 at Land Rover Alexandria.

The painting, featuring Garibaldi’s signature kinetic flair, was auctioned off minutes after the final brushstroke. It sold for $10,000, with proceeds benefiting ALIVE!, Community Lodgings, and the National Breast Center Foundation, three Alexandria-based nonprofits working to end poverty and homelessness, and support breast cancer charity.

Garibaldi’s performance was the climax of a Bond-themed evening dubbed “Casino Royale,” a black-tie gala designed to rev up excitement for the Old Town Festival of Speed & Style, held the following day. Guests were ushered down a red carpet by a Joan Rivers impersonator, dined on local culinary specialties, and sipped handcrafted martinis under the gleam of showroom lights and collector cars.

For Garibaldi, 42, who was personally invited by event coordinator Giovanni Quintana, Sales Director at Land Rover Al-

exandria, the event was a natural fit. “I do a lot of philanthropic events, and I love cars. Best of both worlds,” Garibaldi said with a smile when asked why he chooses to paint cars.

Garibaldi is no ordinary painter. The Los Angeles-born artist has built a career out of live performance painting what he calls “Rhythm and Hue” fusing art, music, and movement in a way that defies the staid expectations of the gallery world. From halftime shows at NBA games

to headlining alongside Andrea Bocelli, for whom he painted “a piece a night,” Garibaldi has married spectacle and substance seamlessly.

His body of work is as varied as his venues. He’s painted Jesus on “The 700 Club,” Mick Jagger at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and the late Juice WRLD in front of thousands in Chicago. He even shared a stage with Carlos Santana, who signed the painting on the spot. But his collaboration with the Andrea Bocelli Founda-

tion, in which his artwork raised over $1 million, was one of the most noteworthy of his performances.

“When you find something you love, you just click into it,” Garibaldi said when asked whether he gets nervous up there on stage with so many watching and time constraints. “There’s no other feeling. You just feel like, I am supposed to be here. This is my connection with the world at this moment.”

From leaving high school to gaining immediate recognition as an international artist, Garibaldi urges young creatives to think beyond gallery walls. “There’s a world of people who are passionate about what you create, you just have to go find them. That’s where you find your true value.”

The value of his car painting at the High-Octane Ball wasn’t just in the brushstrokes. Purchased by the Yates family for $10,000, it was a contribution towards causes that touch the lives of thousands in the Alexandria area.

As the crowd applauded and the bidding concluded, it was clear that Garibaldi’s work transcended the canvas, becoming a symbol of generosity, creativity, and community.

In the words of Garibaldi’s favorite artist, the late speed painter Denny Dent: “Art is an explosion.” In Alexandria on a May night, that explosion raised both awareness and thousands of dollars for those who need it most.

Photos: Eliza Nela for The Zebra Press

Loren and Jason Yates and son Jason Jr. stand proudly with artist David Garibaldi’s original painting, moments after winning the evening’s high-energy auction race at the High-Octane Ball.

Garibaldi signs the back of his painting.

Beth Myllenbeck and Ralf Berthiez lead the spirited auction race, rallying bids from guests as Garibaldi’s live performance painting nears completion. Transforming canvas into a car in 15 minutes

A Summer of History for Alexandria’s Junior Docents

BY OFFICE OF HISTORIC ALEXANDRIA

In 2009, Gadsby’s Tavern Museum launched its Junior Docent Program. The inaugural class had 15 students. One now works in the Alexandria Parks and Recreation Department. The program has grown to 58 students this year, allowing the junior docents to staff activity stations, including ice cream making and historic drinking chocolate. This year, we’re highlighting two stations for visitors to the museum.

Junior Docents have a brand-new Trivia Wheel Station that will test visitors’ knowledge of questions that appear on the U.S. citizenship test. The Material Culture and Clothing Station (MCC) has also been updated this year to include modern-day bed bug education (how to spot the bugs and avoid them) and how they affected the everyday lives of eighteenth and nineteenth-century people, including the travelers who stayed overnight in our two tavern buildings. The MCC was created by requests from a few Junior Docents who wanted to continue teaching and demonstrating the information they had learned from wearing the Museum’s 18th-century attire during shifts.

Until about 2019, all students in all stations of the program were given the option to wear the Museum’s period garb. Students stationed at the MCC undergo a separate intensive training to prepare them to talk about social class and the use of clothing and accessories to communicate wealth and status. This station focuses on artifacts found

by archaeologists and what those objects can teach us about the past, including a new item this year—a jaw harp! This will help students discuss itinerant musicians and entertainment that was widely enjoyed by all. Jaw harps were cheap and easy to carry, so travelers of every class and background would have brought them along while visiting our town and taverns. If you have not heard this instrument, the Junior Docents can play a recording of it for you. You can guess where you may have heard it before (it is found in many cartoons and old movies, especially, and is Tigger’s bounce sound in Winnie the Pooh!).

In addition, our amazing Historic Chocolate Station has added a map to discuss trade routes of cacao and common spices used to

flavor sipping chocolate in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. We are also grateful to Gadsby’s Tavern Museum Society for funding a paid internship for experienced Junior Docents who have risen to Peer Mentor status and are responsible for setting up and supervising the Historic Chocolate Station on our Family Day Sundays in the summer. These Head Chocolatiers get to put this on their resume as their first paid job. This new level of responsibility gives these young people a chance to gain work experience doing something they love, and it helps Museum staff have the ability to expand the program in exciting new ways.

One of the Head Chocolatiers is Patrick Ostermann-Healey. Patrick started as a Junior Docent eight

years ago, following his older brother Paul, who also did the program. Patrick said, “My time in the Junior Docent program improved my public speaking and memorization skills.” Patrick has fond memories of dressing in period garb as a younger docent and continues to advocate for the activity stations to allow trained participants to wear period attire. His ability to work with younger students has translated into teaching violin to younger musicians during the week. After taking a gap year, Patrick plans to study music and environmental studies at Lawrence University in Wisconsin. This year, we have a new, optional program opportunity for Junior Docent Peer Mentors at the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum! Several Peer Mentors will undergo training to serve as volunteer greeters at the Apothecary Museum while also introducing a new hands-on item that will allow them to discuss how bed bugs and other annoying insects were repelled in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries using chrysanthemum-based insect powder formerly sold at the Apothecary. These fabulous new Peer Mentor Apothecary greeters will also help direct Apothecary Museum visitors to Gadsby’s Tavern Museum and encourage them to catch the Junior Docent program every Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. starting June 15 and continuing each Sunday through Aug. 31.

Photos courtesy of Historic Alexandria

ABOVE: The Historic Chocolate Station at Gadsby’s Tavern.

LEFT: The new Trivia Wheel Station that tests visitors’ knowledge of questions on the US citizenship test.

RIGHT: A 2019 photo of Patrick 0stermann-Healey

Unseen Old Town Our City Bears the Name of the Man Who Once Lived on This Land

BY “GOVERNOR” BURKE

Last month’s Unseen Old Town photo stretches the definition of Old Town. The ruins of Abingdon Plantation are actually located North of Old Town, off the George Washington Parkway. Unless you knew it was there, you likely have never seen this site. The reason is that the Abingdon Plantation is only accessible through the parking structure at Reagan National Airport. To visit, you have to follow the pedestrian path from Parking Garage A towards B/C. Make sure you are on the ground level. The site was also known as the Alexander-Custis Plantation because of two early prominent families that owned the land grant. The original parcel of some 6,000 acres stretched from Hunting Creek to the current site of Arlington National Cemetery. Our city, Alexandria, draws its name from John Alexander, who inherited the plantation in 1677 from his father, Robert Alexander. John Alexander gave a large portion of the property to Alexandria so that it could be formally incorporated into the town in 1749. Yes, George Washington did sleep here. He was a frequent visitor after 1788, when John Parke Custis, his stepson, purchased the farm. There’s a long and varied history of the property. Unfortunately, it is too long to discuss here. However, to conclude our little investigation, in the 20th century, Abingdon and its land were acquired by the R F & P Railroad. The house fell into disrepair and burned in a fire in 1930. The remains of the structure that survive were rebuilt in 1998, after the Airport Authority investigated building a new parking facility on the site, and preservationists stepped in to save it.

To see more quirky photos and close-up angles of secret and not-so-secret spots in Old Town, Alexandria, and jump in with guesses, and comments, follow the discussion, and submit your own photos for consideration, join the Unseen Old Town Facebook group.

As for the photo above, we will reveal what it is and where it is in our next issue, along with a new one for you to ponder.

UNLOCK YOUR HOME’S POTENTIAL

Photo: Governor Burke

Photo: Governor Burke

On Hallowed Ground

BY DONNA REUSS

To begin this month’s column, I would like to express my gratitude to the many members of the community who joined Veterans of Foreign Wars (WVF) Post 609, The American Legion Post 24, Challenger Squadron 1 Civil Air Cadets, local boy and cub scouts, and other veterans service organizations last month in the Memorial Day Flags-in-the-Ground placement at the Alexandria National Cemetery. This simple gesture to honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country is always a moving experience.

A participant asked about the distinction between national and other cemeteries, such as those with a military burial section. Good question.

A national cemetery is a military cemetery dedicated for burial of armed forces veterans and their eligible family members. National cemeteries are operated by the federal government. States also may operate military cemeteries. Even if these cemeteries were established or are supported with federal funding, the home state is responsible for their management.

Congress authorized the first national cemeteries in 1862 to bury Union soldiers who died during the Civil War. Fourteen national cemeteries and numerous soldiers’ lots were established that year near key troop concentration locations, such as battlefields, hospitals, and campsites. The Alexandria National Cemetery on Wilkes Street is one of the original national cemeteries. Today, there are 155 national cemeteries across 42 States.

Three federal agencies currently manage the national

cemeteries, soldiers’ and government lots, and Confederate cemeteries: the National Cemetery Administration (NCA) within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA); the Department of the Army under the Department of Defense (DoD); and the National Park Service, Department of the Interior.

The Alexandria National Cemetery is managed by the VA, while Arlington National Cemetery, established in 1894 and the largest in the US National Cemetery System, is under DoD jurisdiction.

The VA Veterans Cemetery Grants Program, established in 1978, assists States, territories, and tribal governments in providing gravesites for veterans in areas where the NCA cannot fully meet the needs. Virginia has both national and VA

grant-funded cemeteries. Public or private cemeteries may include a military burial section. While not directly managing their operations, the VA and DoD often work with these cemeteries to ensure proper recognition and honoring of the interred military and family members.

A primary difference between national and State cemeteries is eligibility conditions. All national cemeteries have the same criteria, while State cemeteries may have their own unique requirements.

Eligibility for burial in a national cemetery generally includes veterans who have met active-duty service requirements in the US Armed Forces, including certain Reservists and National Guard members, and some World War II Mer-

chant Mariners, Philippine Armed Forces veterans, and Public Health Service Officers; were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable; and their spouses and minor or dependent children.

Burial benefits for veterans may include a grave site in any national cemetery with available space, grave opening and closing, and perpetual care, a government-provided headstone, marker, or medallion, a burial flag, and a Presidential Memorial Certificate at no cost to the family, even if buried in a private cemetery. Some veterans may also be eligible for burial allowances to help pay for burial and funeral costs.

Families are encouraged to prepare in advance by discussing cemetery options, collecting the veteran’s military information (including discharge papers), and by contacting the cemetery where burial is desired. The National Cemetery Scheduling Office can assist with planning and scheduling at a national cemetery if desired. Information is available at www.cem.va.gov, or call (800) 535-1417. Or contact a Legion or VFW Veteran Service Officer with questions.

If you are a veteran, veteran’s family member, or know a veteran who needs help, visit the Virginia Department of Veterans Services at www.dvs.virginia.gov/dvs, or dss.virginia. gov/community/211.cgi. Contact the American Legion Post 24 Veteran Service Officer at VSO24@outlook.com, or check out the Resources List on the Post 24 website at valegionpost24.com. For crisis intervention and suicide prevention services, dial 988 and Press 1, or text 838255, for the Veterans Crisis Line.

Photos: Donna Reuss

ABOVE: Arlington National Cemetery on Memorial Day

LEFT: People helped plant flags at Alexandria National Cemetery in observance of Memorial Day.

Dad Brain: What Mental Load Looks Like on the Other Side of the Couch

BY DR. AMY FORTNEY PARKS, LPC, ACS

Last month, we talked about the mental load that moms carry—the invisible work of managing school forms, dentist appointments, permission slips, birthday gifts, emotional labor, and all the other behind-the-scenes tasks that keep a family humming. (If you missed it, ask any mom in Old Town juggling a Trader Joe’s bag and a preschooler meltdown. She’ll fill you in.)

But with Father’s Day around the corner, let’s turn our focus to the dads. Not the sitcom dads or the “forgot the diaper bag again” stereotype - the real ones. The ones pacing the soccer sidelines at Simpson Field, or holding the wet towels at swim team practice, and somehow always knowing which recycling bin is actually correct this week.

While research has historically focused more on moms, newer studies are beginning to paint a fuller picture of the mental load that fathers carry, too. According to a 2023 Pew Research Center report, today’s dads are doing more hands-on parenting than ever before. More diaper changes, more carpool runs, more latenight math homework help. And with that increased involvement comes its own version of cognitive labor.

Now, is it the same load moms carry? Not always.

A recent study in the Journal of Family Psychology found that while dads are more likely to handle logistics tied to activities and fi-

nances, moms still shoulder more of the emotional and anticipatory work (think: “Who needs new shoes?” or “Did we RSVP to the class party?”).

But the dad load is real— and growing.

The dads I talk to in therapy often describe a different kind of stress: the pressure to provide, stay steady, “be strong,” and manage the ever-present guilt that they’re not doing enough at home or work. It’s the mental pingpong of trying to be a present parent while answering Slack messages during the school play at Lyles-Crouch.

It’s also worth noting that some dads carry additional layers: single fathers, stayat-home dads, fathers in blended families, or dads navigating co-parenting dynamics. Their mental load can look entirely different but just as intense.

Let’s be real. Father’s Day doesn’t always come with the same level of Pinterest-fueled celebration as Mother’s Day. (I see you, last-minute tie aisle at Target.)

So, this June, maybe skip the “#1 Dad” mug and offer something more meaningful: a real conversation about what’s on his mind. Ask him what he’s carrying that no one sees. Give him space to talk, vent, or just be. Because when we understand each other’s mental loads - moms, dads, and everyone in between - we build stronger, more compassionate families.

And if you’re still looking for a Father’s Day gift?

A quiet cup of coffee on the porch, alone, or uninterrupted time to browse in Del Ray Hardware might be what he needs to reset the mental tabs he has open. Ask me a question by using the QR code.

Photo: iStock.com/Drazen Zigic Dads deal with stress too.

On Lessons Through the Lens

BY NINA TISARA

When I worked as a photojournalist, my camera was my passport to many new experiences.

The first time I photographed a debutante ball at the Belle Haven Country Club, I didn’t know what it was. I had never been to a debutante ball or a cotillion. I had never attended an event at a country club.

I recently learned from

LIVING LEGENDS

EXTENDED

BY MARY WADLAND

an article in Southern Living magazine that a debutante ball introduces young ladies aged 16 to 21 officially as members of society. Now, a cotillion, according to Home.org, is “typically a season of etiquette classes for middle-school-aged children that aims to teach important social skills and manners, and often ends with a final dinner dance where they get to show off what they’ve learned.”

I was anxious walking into the country club. It was a black tie event. Would my camera’s black strap meet the requirement? Seriously. I still don’t own formal attire. I began working as the girls were getting ready. The mom in me took over when I realized these teenage girls were primping in front of mirrors. They helped each

— BUT NOT FOR LONG! NOMINATEA LIVING LEGEND BY JUNE 30!

Is there someone in Alexandria whose impact deserves to be remembered? Someone who has made a lasting difference in the community and inspired others through their actions? Now’s your chance to honor them — nominations for Living Legends of Alexandria are officially open!

The Living Legends of Alexandria program honors individuals who reside in or work in the city and have made extraordinary contributions that enhance the quality of life for all Alexandrians. These are the quiet heroes, bold leaders, and tireless advocates who shape the present and future of the city we call home.

The idea took root in 2006 when local photographer and artist Nina Tisara was asked to provide photos of Alexandrians who had passed away. “Suddenly, it hit me,” she recalls. “While we were doing a good job preserving Alexandria’s past, we were letting the stories of those shaping our present slip away. Why not honor them while they’re still here?”

In 2008, the first twelve Living Legends were surprised with the news that they had been selected. Since then, more than 159 in-

dividuals have been recognized, and the program has become a cherished Alexandria tradition, capturing the spirit, service, and leadership that make the city unique.

Nominations are open now through June 30. Don’t wait — help spotlight someone whose story deserves to be told.

Need some examples?

Here are three distinguished individuals recently honored:

Paris Davis – Medal of Honor Recipient & Civil Rights Advocate

Colonel Paris Davis, a retired U.S. Army officer, was award-

ed the Medal of Honor in 2023 for his heroic actions during the Vietnam War. After retiring in 1985, he founded the Metro-Herald , a newspaper focusing on Alexandria’s local community, civil rights issues, and African American accomplishments. His lifelong dedication to service and advocacy has left an indelible mark on Alexandria.

Carolyn B. Lewis – Educational Pioneer

An influential educator since the early 1960s, Carolyn B. Lewis co-founded Project Discovery Alexandria, guiding students toward higher education. Her unwavering commitment to youth development has inspired generations to pursue academic and personal success.

Mac Slover – Champion for Inclusive Recreation

Mac Slover, a retired official from Alexandria’s Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities, founded the Miracle League of Alexandria. This initiative established the city’s first adaptive baseball field, providing inclusive recreational opportunities for individuals with special needs. His efforts have significantly enhanced community inclusivity and engagement.

Photo: David Ford

Nina Tisara with a 35mm camera, 1981.

Paris Davis

Carolyn B. Lewis

Mac Slover

Photos: Steven Halperson/Tisara Photography

The Del Ray Docket

Through June 29

Sing Me a Sea Shanty Art Exhibit

Del Ray Artisans, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue

Explore a treasure trove of artwork capturing the beauty of the ocean, the maritime mindset, and the ever-lasting nautical spirit.

June 2

Del Ray vs. Old Town Softball Game

Little field at Simpson Park, 426 E Monroe Ave.

First pitch at 6 p.m.

Cheer for Del Ray as they face off against Old Town in this friendly rivalry, to benefit the Alexandria Little League Scholarship Fund. Admission is free and open to all.

June 5

First Thursday: Rep Your Team

Along Mount Vernon Avenue

6 p.m. to dusk.

Wear your favorite team jersey for this free, outdoor street festival featuring fun summer activities, live music, and more. For more information, visit www.visitdelray.com

June 7, 14, 21, 28

The Del Ray Farmers’ Market

The Pat Miller Neighborhood Square, located at the intersection of Oxford and Mount Vernon Avenue

8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Against All Odds: The Portlances Realize Their Community-Driven Dream

BY ELIZA NELA

When Jay and Edea Portlance cut the ribbon to officially open the Del Ray Farmhouse Market + Garden on May 10, it wasn’t just a celebration of a new business. It was a moment that captured a neighborhood rallying behind a vision and the emotional release of a couple who have put everything on the line to bring that vision to life.

What began a year ago as a side idea to sell a few plants at the local hardware store has now blossomed into a full-fledged garden center and community marketplace. But the journey from inspiration to inauguration was far from easy.

Jay Portlance and his wife Edea saved Del Ray Hardware from closure last year by buying the store on short notice to preserve its legacy. But that was just the beginning.

“I knew this community vision would grow from there,” Jay said in a quiet moment after the ribbon-cutting. “But it’s not been easy to realize it.”

The Portlances took possession of the Farmhouse Market and Garden, formerly

Bellies & Babies, on Feb. 1, with the garden center opening on March 22. In just a few months, they transformed it into a welcoming space overflowing with color, abundance, and character. But the physical transformation of the venue was only part of the story.

Jay faced mounting legal and logistical hurdles as he tried to rezone and repurpose the location. “At one point, we were told we couldn’t operate a garden center so close to residential zoning,” he explained. “We had already invested everything financially and emotionally.”

Yet through each setback, the community rallied, and so did city leaders. During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Mayor Alyia Gaskins addressed the crowd with heartfelt words.

“It is so exciting to be here, we are bursting into the streets,” she said. “It is remarkable to see how many people have come here today.”

Sharing a story from her childhood, Gaskins recalled, “My mother would always say, ‘April showers bring May flowers.’ As I got older, I began to understand a

Photo: DRBA

Del Ray plays Old Town in the annual softball game June 2.

Photo: Eliza Nela for The Zebra Press

Jay and Edea Portlance

Photo: Eliza Nela for The Zebra Press

Jay Portlance stands inside the Del Ray Farmhouse Market + Garden, a vibrant community space that began as a small idea to sell a few plants.

PORTLANCES

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

whole other meaning behind it. Sometimes you have to go through hardships to experience joy at the end of it. Sometimes you go through some really hard stuff in order to fully blossom on the other side.”

She acknowledged the road for Jay and Edea had been anything but smooth. “There have been many twists and turns, frustrations and setbacks, and unfortunately, a lot of those were caused by the city. Because we had never seen a vision like this,” Gaskins said. “Sometimes, when someone introduces a new idea, it takes time for others to understand the change they want to bring. But Jay and Edea never gave up. They never stopped explaining that the Del Ray Farmhouse is more than just a market and garden, it’s a continuation of the vision that saved the hardware store. It’s a space where community can be built. And today, that’s what we are celebrating: their perseverance, and their vision for our community. We’re all behind you.”

The Del Ray Docket

Named one of the top 10 farmers’ markets in the state! This year-round market features fruits and vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, cheeses, breads, fresh pasta, baked goods, cut flowers, and more.

June 14

Del Ray Vintage & Flea Market

Mount Vernon & East Bellefonte Avenue

9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The outpouring of support from across Alexandria and Del Ray was evident. Among the crowd, resident Dana Robert Colarulli captured the spirit of the day:

“This isn’t just a store and a garden center. It’s not all about meeting immediate needs, it’s about building something beyond that. Throughout the ages, people have gathered around the proverbial bonfire, and now we must find ways to emu-

late those communal gatherings. Jay has achieved just that. It is all too clear to see here today with how many people have turned up to share this moment.”

The garden center is just one part of a larger vision. The Portlances are currently constructing a mercantile market and a farmers-market-style grocery store, both of which will showcase small and local vendors. Edea, a passionate curator of sustainable goods, is spearheading that effort.

“Our goal is to create a hub where local products thrive and shoppers feel good about where their money is going,” she said.

Even now, as the Portlances build toward their October goal of opening the full grocery concept, the guiding principles remain simple: serve the neighborhood, support local economies, and do it all with heart.

For Jay, that means stocking products he would want for his own home, practical, useful, and responsibly sourced. For Edea, it’s about curating beauty, sustainability, and purpose. Together, they’ve tapped into not only the tangible needs of Del Ray residents but something deeper and harder to define, a sense of shared investment and belonging.

At the heart of this endeavor is not profit, but purpose. And as the garden center takes root, it’s clear the Portlances’ vision is one that the community has already embraced as its own.

Find your treasure! Visit over 50 vendors at the intersection of Mount Vernon & Bellefonte Avenues, plus the Magpie Reclamations front yard on the 2200 block of Mount Vernon Avenue. For more information, visit delrayvintageflea.com.

June 14

Gustave Art & Craft Market 2213 Mount Vernon Avenue 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Shop with some of the area’s most creative vendors and savor Gustave’s Parisian specialities.

June 19, 26

Cool Yoga

The Wellness Junction lot, 1900 Mount Vernon Avenue 6:30 p.m.

Join Coldwell Banker Realtor® and senior yoga instructor Maureen Clyne and The Wellness Junction every Wednesday during summer for a free outdoor yoga class suitable for all levels; please bring your own mat and water. For details, including weather updates, visit facebook. com/coolyoga2014.

June 21

Cinema Del Ray

Mount Vernon Recreation Center fields, at Mount Vernon Ave. and Commonwealth Ave.

7 p.m.

Join The Jen Walker Team for a family-friendly movie under the stars. The fun starts at 7 p.m., Despicable Me 4 starts at dusk. Bring your own blanket or chairs; the event is free and open to all.

Photo: Eliza Nela for The Zebra Press

Mayor Alyia Gaskins, Council Member Jacinta Greene, and Senator Adam Ebbin join Jay and Edea Portlance for the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Photo: Eliza Nela for The Zebra Press Jay Portlance delivers an emotional speech beside his wife.

Athena Wellness Offers Specialized Physical Therapy for Breast Cancer Patients

ADDITIONALTHERAPIESTREAT PREGNANCY/POSTPARTUM,PERI/MENOPAUSE,PELVIC FLOOR DYSFUNCTION,AND GENERALWOMEN’S HEALTH

BY SUSAN MULLIGAN FLEISCHMAN

Sara Acheson is the founder of Athena Wellness and Physical Therapy, a new clinic that focuses on breast cancer physical therapy. Normally, patients begin PT before planned surgeries, so they are well prepared and have better outcomes with PT post-procedure. But with cancer, there is no preparation. The diagnosis itself is its own trauma. A dedicated PT regimen helps patients more effectively navigate their treatment and recovery.

One of Acheson’s patients emailed her recently with the readout from her fitness device, which registered an unusually low stress level for the full hour of her PT session, a far cry from her typical medium to high levels. Acheson said, “It’s a clear, tangible sign of the good and healing comfort that comes with PT. It’s feedback like this that assures me I’m on the right path.”

It has been a long path that may

appear to lead straight to where she is now, but it didn’t always feel so direct. Acheson earned her B.S. in nutrition, food, and exercise at Virginia Tech. Three years later, she graduated with her doctorate in physical therapy from Emory. She moved to Northern Virginia and began working as a physical therapist. She enjoyed her work but felt unfulfilled and thought something was missing. A continuing education class introduced her to the specialty area of lymphedema, which is swelling that occurs in the body in response to disease, infection, injury, or trauma.

Acheson learned about managing swelling with wrapping and com-

pression sleeves, but she wanted to take the therapy further. “I thought there should be a whole body approach. If a limb is swollen, it will affect the arm, neck, and shoulder. How are we addressing this whole body impact?”

Already interested in the shoulder (she worked with the VA Tech baseball team and was a former swimmer), Acheson jumped at the chance to participate in an upper extremity fellowship. She embarked on a yearlong study of the shoulder and elbow, shadowing Dr. David Weintritt of the National Breast Center here in Alexandria. It wasn’t long before her primary focus and passion became breast cancer therapies.

Acheson said, “Data repeatedly shows how important exercise is, especially for people going through a challenging time of depression, anxiety, and stress. For cancer patients, chemo and radiation impact the whole body with fatigue, balance risk, and bone density issues. In my practice, I help patients manage fatigue by staying active and recognizing when to rest.”

Buoyed by her success and personal fulfillment in treating breast cancer patients, Acheson took the big leap and opened her own practice out of her home in Stratford Landing last November. She named it Athena after the Greek warrior goddess of strength and wisdom. In just six months, Athena Wellness and Physical Therapy has a growing list of new and returning patients. Dr. Weintritt regularly refers patients to Acheson for PT and said, “Sara is a unicorn in the world of PT and breast cancer! Her training

Photo: Susan Fleischman Sara Acheson at her in-home clinic.

Photo: Susan Fleischman Athena patients are in good hands with Sara.

Photo: Sara Acheson Sara’s patient in a session.

Bidding on a Paw-fect Prize to Support Pawfectly Delicious

GETYOURTICKETS NOW FOR PAWS & POURS, SUNDAY,JUNE 8,2-5 P.M.,AT FORT HUNT PARK

BY DARCY KOHN, PAWFECTLY DELICIOUS DOG TREATS

There is still time to get tickets to one of the most pawsome events of the season! The Alexandria-based nonprofit, Pawfectly Delicious Dog Treats (PDDT), will be hosting its 2nd Annual Paws & Pours fundraiser on Sunday, June 8, from 2 to 5 p.m. at Fort Hunt Park. This is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the organization that provides meaningful employment opportunities and job training to adults with disabilities.

Pawfectly Delicious has planned a wonderful afternoon of live music, food and drink, dog portraits, dog

photography, a dog agility course, and more. WJLA Meteorologist Steve Rudin will return to host for the second year as a Paws & Pours ambassador. The event also includes a robust silent auction where all proceeds will directly benefit the PDDT team of disabled adults, in addition to helping grow the team and organization.

“Our team is so excited about Paws & Pours – it gives us the opportunity to share with the community what we do and why we do it, plus we get to meet a lot of adorable dogs,” said Bryan Tuccillo, co-founder of Pawfectly Delicious and member of the baking team. “I’m also excited for all of the

year’s silent auction.”

Thanks to the gen erosity of the Alex

All photos: Susan Fleischman

Standing with PDDT Executive Director Anne Tuccillo is WJLA Meteorologist and PDDT Ambassador Steve Rudin, who is returning for a second year hosting Paws & Pours.

Hollin Hall Businesses Raise $5K for the National Breast Center Foundation

GRILLIN’FORTHE GIRLSTO BECOMEANANNUAL FUNDRAISER

BY SUSAN FLEISCHMAN

Three small businesses joined forces and raised $5,000 for the National Breast Center Foundation last month.

Alex Kilroy, owner of The Cut Butchery, worked with

Paige Bradford of Hooray Art and Renée C. Gage Photography to create a unique fundraising event, Grillin’ for the Girls. Students in Bradford’s art classes decorated the butchers’ black aprons with bright pink paint, Kilroy donated pro-

ceeds from steak purchases (wrapped in pink paper), and Renée Gage was on hand to capture the special moments with her camera.

Martha Carucci, the executive director of the National Breast Center Foundation, made sure Mary’s

Wings were there for general awareness and photo opportunities. This local nonprofit raises funds to provide women

Photos: Renée C. Gage ABOVE: Torrey Harrison was more than happy to pose in front of Mary’s Wings before heading home with his goodies from The Cut.

LEFT: Students in Hooray Art’s classes had fun decorating The Cut butchers’ aprons for the fundraiser.

Photo: Susan Fleischman

RIGHT: Renée Gage in action capturing memories in front of Mary’s Wings at The Cut Butchery.

Be sure to bring your appetite.

BIDDING

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29

andria community and beyond, the team has acquired an incredible array of silent auction donations that will directly benefit the PDDT team. There are professional sports team tickets and memorabilia, certificates for local experiences and activities, gift cards from

popular restaurants, and dog-related gifts.

Additionally, PDDT will auction off six luxury trip experiences, thanks to the support from Winspire, a company that develops vacation packages for nonprofit fundraising. Offerings include a VIP European soccer game package in England, Spain, or Italy; a relaxing trip to the Napa Valley; a Porsche Racetrack experience; or an enchant-

$5K

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 30

with better access to breast health care, using technological advances that improve outcomes.

Over the two-day event, shoppers streamed through The Cut, perusing the wide variety of high-quality steaks. In all, Kilroy was able to donate $5,000 to the National Breast Center Foundation. That equates to

50 screenings, 10 biopsies, 20 ultrasounds, or a combination thereof.

“We’re so grateful to these businesses for helping us help others. So many more women will now have access to lifesaving preventive care,” said Carucci.

Kilroy added, “It feels great to support this organization that is near and dear to my heart. Being able to do so with my neighbors here in Hollin Hall made it even sweeter. We plan on doing it again next year!”

ing vacation on the shores of Lake Como in Italy.

The Paws & Pours event is one you don’t want to miss. Tickets are going fast and are on sale now. Visit the Pawfectly Delicious website for more information and to get your tickets: pawfectlydelicious.org. Come on out, bring your pups, and enjoy a fun and festive event for humans and dogs alike –all to support a good cause.

Use your Smile to Change the World.

When you visit our office, your smile is our top priority. Our entire team is dedicated to providing you with the

—The Bhudda

Photos: Renée C. Gage

Alex Kilroy, owner of The Cut (center, in pink) with some of the staff of The Cut Butchery proudly wearing their bespoke aprons, courtesy of Hooray Art students.

Photo: Susan Fleischman

Crudites All Day created a sumptuous spread last year, and will be back again this year!

Native Plants Take Root at John Adams Elementary School

BY KEVIN FISHER, ABC

On Earth Day, April 22, a vibrant new chapter in environmental education began at John Adams Elementary and Early Childhood Center. Students, staff, and community partners came together to launch the Native Roots Landscaping Initiative Spearheaded by the Alexandria Beautification Commission in partnership with Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS), this initiative hopes to transform school grounds with native plants while cultivating a new generation of environmental stewards.

Nearly 200 new native plants — species that evolved in Northern Virginia and thrive with less maintenance and added resources — now enrich the school’s landscape, including a pollinator garden with butterfly magnets like Milkweed, New England Aster, and Joe Pyeweed. These bring color and seasonal change with food and habitat opportunities for the beneficial insects.

By integrating native landscaping with environmental education, the Native Roots Initiative not only beautifies school grounds but also serves as a living classroom, where students learn about

Visiting Alexandria’s Witness Trees

BY DANIYA TAMENDAROVA, ABC

Have you visited Alexandria’s Bicentennial Trees? Back in the 1970s, the Bicentennial Tree Project sought to identify, recognize, and preserve trees that have witnessed the events of the American Revolution.

The project identified 17 trees. Today, only two of them still remain on public land: a willow oak along Holmes Run Trail that runs across from the Beatley Central Library, and a sweet gum at the Alexandria National Cemetery.

The willow oak—new directional signs along the trail will lead you to it—was

biodiversity, sustainability, and stewardship.

“The event beautifully illustrates the power of collaboration and how we can cultivate a passion for sustainability in our students, making it both enjoyable and integral to their learning,” said ACPS Chief Operating Officer Dr. Alicia Hart.

This is just the beginning. With continued collaboration, the hope is to expand native landscapes to more school campuses across Alexandria, building a greener, healthier city. One plant and one student at a time.

A big thanks to all of our collaborators:

• ALX Dog Walk sponsored the native planting and led the litter clean-up

• Master Gardeners helped us educate the kids about trees, butterflies and native plants

• Native plants from Nature by Design, Earth Sangha, and Greenstreet Gardens

• Landscape design by Kevin Fisher, Rhodeside Harwell Inc.

• Free compost from Monster Organics

• Native tree planting by Boy Scouts Troop 129

• John Adams PTA contributed money for native trees

estimated to be 270 years old in 1976 (which would make it almost 320 years old today). The sweet gum is nearly 250 years old.

Both still have their 1976 plaques, so you can’t miss them. The willow oak is on a hill overlooking the water, surrounded by a barrier and gnarled a bit by recent storms. The sweet gum stands at the bottom of the hill near the flagpole at the cemetery, several other big trees near it. Visit these two giants, think about the Alexandria history they’ve witnessed, and help preserve old trees in your neighborhood.

NOMINATEA COMMUNITY PROJECT FORA

2025 BEAUTIFICATIONAWARD

BY ALEXANDRIA BEAUTIFICATION COMMISSION

Hey, Alexandria! Let’s celebrate the magic that happens when community, creativity, and curb appeal come together.

Do you know of a local spot that’s had an amazing transformation from public art, a community garden, or a park makeover? Maybe a

once-forgotten trail is now a neighborhood gem! Whether it’s blooming with flowers or buzzing with people, we want to hear about the projects that make Alexandria unique. Nominate your favorite for the 2025 Beautification Award today at alexandriava.gov/beautification.

Have questions? Send a message to alxbeautification@gmail.com.

Photo courtesy ACPS

Celebrating Earth Day 2025 at John Adams Elementary

Photo courtesy (@trasplantedtatar Bicentennial Sweet Gum, Alexandria National Cemetery.

Photo courtesy @trasplantedtatar

Bicentennial Willow Oak, Holmes Run Trail.

ATHENA

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28

makes her an expert but her passion to look after the patient at all phases of their journey and to integrate her skills into the surgical, medical, and radiation phases of breast cancer treatment is what makes her so special. I am so grateful to have Sara as part of our team.”

Acheson believes it’s not enough “just to be happy to be alive after cancer treatments.” Patients should have a healthy and promising outlook on life, free of anxiety and discomfort. “I support patients through

MUSINGS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24

other adjust hair and makeup. They could have been my own children. My anxiety dissolved.

Lessons? I now know what a debutante ball is and how it differs from a cotillion. I got an important lesson in approaching events with open eyes and an open heart.

The second lesson around the same theme came when I had an assignment to photograph a Special Olympics event on the grounds of Episcopal High School. I had never attended an event with so many people with disabilities. I wondered, worried actually, whether my eyes and heart would stay open.

As I walked across a large field, a young girl with Down Syndrome ran up and hugged me. The child’s innocence and joyful greeting made me see I was the one with the greater disability. I was so focused on finding “the picture” that told the story that I didn’t see what was in front of me.

That encounter allowed me a short time later to see and photograph two boys smiling broadly as they shook hands and congratulated each other after finish-

the whole journey in relieving stiffness, getting motion back, and building up their endurance and confidence. The goal is to resume the things in life they love to do.”

And as long as her patients continue recording their lowest stress levels during their PT sessions, Acheson knows she is on the right path.

Athena Wellness and Physical Therapy is located at 2414 Londonderry Road, Alexandria, VA 22308. Phone 757-532-9804. Web: athenawellnesspt.com. Call or visit the website to request a free consultation.

ing a wheelchair race.

The girl’s hug was a gift that opened my heart and my eyes.

Following the death of Pope Francis, I saw a Facebook post of a photo of the pope holding the hand of young girl with Down Syndrome. She wandered up to the altar while he was delivering a homily.

Viewing the picture, I had a flashback to a priest talking at a reception I photographed. The event was hosted by St. Coletta’s school in Alexandria. The school’s mission is to empower children and adults with intellectual disabilities to discover their full potential. I don’t remember the priest’s name or his parish. I just remember his closing words: “Each of us is created in the image of God.”

A powerful lesson.

In my 30-plus year career as a photojournalist, people often asked me what camera I used or about the candlepower of the flash. I told them the make of the camera is not very important and that I didn’t know the candlepower.

What is important is to focus through the heart.

Mosaic Artist/Photographer is the Founder of Living Legends of Alexandria.

Community Cookouts Return

The Community Cookout allows residents to connect with representatives of city agencies and nonprofits. Meet your police officers and firefighters. The cookouts feature free food, music, and activities for both children and adults

Alexandria’s Community Cookout began with two dedicated staff members from the Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities. Their goal was to boost program participation and increase outreach to two of Alexandria’s most underserved communities.

What started as a small departmental project has since grown into a major community initiative. Today, more than 50 city agencies and nonprofit organizations participate. These events have reached over 20,000 residents and are now proudly supported by the City Manager’s Office.

UPCOMING SCHEDULE

Wednesday, June 4

6-7:30 p.m.

Southern Towers 4900 Seminary Rd.

Wednesday, June 11

6-7:30 p.m.

Princess Square 400 North West St.

Wednesday, June 18

6-7:30 p.m.

Patrick Henry Rec Center 4643 Taney Ave.

Wednesday, June 25

6-7:30 p.m.

Andrew Adkins 1200 Block of Wythe St.

Wednesday, July 1

6-7:30 p.m.

Casa Chirilagua 4100 Mt. Vernon Ave.

Events are weather-dependent

LA PLUMA COFFEEANDWINE OPENS

A new Latin restaurant, La Pluma Coffee and Wine, opened at 1000 Cameron St. Get coffee or tea to accompany your breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

The establishment is owned by Iliana and Dany Lopez. Its first floor houses the coffee shop. The second is the wine bar. Enjoy seating on the patio.

The menu features Central American food. Choic-

es include Garnachas made with ground sirloin and Cheese Papas Rellenas, a cheese stuffed fried potato mash and house-made red sauce. For a delicious beverage, try Horchata, a blend of whole milk, rice milk, cinnamon, and vanilla. There’s also Mayan Hot Chocolate. Their credo: “Come for the coffee, stay for the vibes, fall in love with the food and wine.”

Photo via AFD Facebook page

Alexandria firefighters at a Community Cookout last month.

Courtesy photo Enjoy food from Central America at La Pluma.

FIRST WATCH COMING TO ALEXANDRIA

First Watch, known for its breakfasts, is opening at 6650 Richmond Hwy. The restaurant has outlets all over Maryland and 10 locations in Virginia. Expected hours are from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. daily. No opening date has been announced.

According to their website, the restaurant “spe cializes in both traditional and innovative creations all freshly prepared to order.” The menu features fresh seasonal produce that

reflect the season. Check out some of their fresh and healthy juice offerings, such as the Morning Meditation Fresh Juice. The breakfast/ brunch menu includes items like The Traditional: two cage-free eggs any style with a choice of bacon, smoked ham, chicken apple sausage patties, turkey or pork sausage links. It is served with whole grain artisan toast, all-natural house preserves, and fresh, seasoned potatoes.

Kismet Modern Indian Closes

Kismet Modern Indian closed its Old Town location on June 1. The decision was driven by continued market pressure. The closing happened abruptly, after more than three years of serving Alexandria and Northern Virginia.

“This is a bittersweet decision,” said Sachin Mahajan, Owner/Operator of Kismet Modern Indian. “Old Town has been an incredibly welcom-

ing and vibrant community. We are deeply grateful to our guests, neighbors, and partners for their support

and connection over the years.”

Kismet Modern Indian has become known for its innovative take on traditional Indian cuisine and warm hospitality. The team is open to the idea of returning to this area. Customers can still enjoy the wonders of Kismet’s flavors in Richmond. There are two locations in downtown DC: Karma Modern Indian and the newly opened Karizma.

WATERFRONT TACO FACTORY SEEKS CITY APPROVAL

As The Zebra previously reported, the space at 2 Prince St., occupied by Big Wheel Bikes for decades, is set to become a restaurant. Waterfront Taco Factory has submitted plans for the ren-

ovation of the space. Murray Bonitt, an owner of Cooper Mill restaurant, is also part-owner of Waterfront Taco. According to filings, the space will be “a full-service restaurant featuring

gourmet tacos in a casual open bodega.”

Photo: Debby Critchley/The Zebra Press

Kismey Modern Indian operated for more than three years in Alexandria.

Courtesy photo

Try the Wild Berry Lavender French Toast.

Photo: Alexandria Board of Architectural Review

Artist’s rendering of Waterfont Taco Factory

JAPANESE RESTAURANT OPENING ON MOUNTVERNONAVE.

Signs have been posted in the windows at 1909 Mount Vernon Ave, the former home of Zuki Moon. Pak Soii Izakaya and Bar, a Japanese restaurant, is taking up residence. A sushi chef is wanted. Despite little information, it is known that Pak Soii is planning to offer eat in and take out items. No opening date has been announced.

Chuck Todd Comes Home to Judge Del Ray’s Culinary Showdown

BY MARY WADLAND

Former Meet the Press host Chuck Todd returns to his Del Ray roots as a judge for the 16th Annual Taste of Del Ray on Sunday, June 1, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Mount Vernon Recreation Center fields.

The event highlights 14 local restaurants compet-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 73

Photo: Debby Critchley/The Zebra Press Pak Soii is coming to Del Ray.

Chuck Todd’s connection to Del Ray runs deep. As he was launching his political journalism career in the 1990s at The Hotline, National Journal’s political briefing, his office was steps from Mount Vernon Ave.

Courtesy image

JUNE PUZZLERS

67 Like some D.A.’s

Long-legged

“Cannery Row” author

1 Family V.I.P.’s

Church recess

8 Part of a nuclear arsenal, for short 12 Small terrestrial lizard 17 Andy’s radio partner 19 Spare tire 20 Link 22 Cleansing agent

23 Disease cause 24 Container weight

25 Rafael Sabatini character

27 Construction girder

29 Masefield play “The Tragedy of ___”

30 Expunge

31 “Now hear ___!”

32 1903 novel by Jack London

36 Witchy woman

38 Stan who created Spider-Man

39 Wacky

40 Riga locale

45 Chat room chuckle

48 Small motorbikes

51 In the past

54 Live’s partner

55 Sgt.’s address

56 Stereo parts

57 Alexandre Dumas character

59 “Bodily Harm” author Atwood

61 Hacienda brick

62 “___ pig’s eye!”

63 Golfer Palmer, informally

64 18-wheeler

66 Building wing

“Airplane!” actor Robert

Ledger heading

HBO rival

Spritelike 83 Shakespeare’s “Much ___ About Nothing” 85 Way too weighty

88 H.P. Lovecraft’s librarian in “The Dunwich Horror”

Wilkie Collins detec tive novel, “The ___”

Run of luck 95 The Monkees’ “___ Believer”

Low-growing Western pine

Pay-___-view

Buckeye State native

Séance

as a

Love, Italian-style

Guillaume ___, French poet and novelist

Badger’s burrow

Toss out

“___ of the D’Urbervilles” by Thomas Hardy

chairs goal

acetate, e.g.

Raise a Book Lover: Read to a Young Child This Summer

BY MICHELLE SMITH HOWARD, PRESIDENT & CEO, KIDS’ FIRST YEARS

A lifelong love of reading begins in the early years. Summer is the perfect time to get in the habit of reading books with your little one.

If you need help finding age-appropriate books for your child, the local libraries in Alexandria are excellent resources to introduce children to the wonderful world of books. All branches of the Alexandria Library system, a valued community partner of Kids’ First Years, are offering a SummerQuest 2025 reading program with the theme Color Our World, developed by the national Collaborative Summer Library Program (CSLP).

“Our 2025 theme encourages libraries and their patrons to embrace the beauty of art in all its forms, creating a colorful tapestry of experiences for everyone,” said Dawn Krause, CSLP Executive Director. “Our program is designed to inspire and engage readers of all ages through a diverse array of artistic expressions. Together, let’s make summer 2025 a year of colorful connections and creative discoveries to foster a love of reading and creativity in our communities.”

Reading to children has many benefits. It helps them understand how the world works and sets the stage for success in school. It helps them settle down after a busy day. It strengthens early literacy skills for school readiness and language development in the formative years from birth to age five. Best of all, reading together creates a special bond over a shared activity that is pleasurable for both the parent or caregiver and the child.

“Early exposure to books and literacy helps set a child up for success,” said Keelia McCaffrey, Youth Services Manager at Alex-

andria Library’s Burke Branch.

“It’s never too early to start reading to children. Babies and tod-

Alexandria Library Branch Locations

dlers love looking at picture books while being held and listening to the story. It’s such an important

• Charles E. Beatley, Jr. Central Library 5005 Duke St.

• Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library 717 Queen St.

• Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library 4701 Seminary Rd.

• James M. Duncan, Jr. Branch Library 2501 Commonwealth Ave.

Keelia McCaffrey’s Favorite Picture Books

• “Stack the Cats” by Susie Ghahremani “Fluffy McWhiskers: Cuteness Explosion” by Stephen W. Martin

• “The Box Turtle” by Vanessa Roeder

• “Itty Bitty Betty Blob” by Constance Lombardo

• “Bunny Made Tea” by Amanda Baehr Fuller “The Hare Who Wouldn’t Share” by Steve Small

• “Signs of Friendship” by Annie Silvestro “I am La Chiva!: The Colorful Bus of the Andes” by Karol Hernández

• “Sleepy Sheepy” by Lucy Ruth Cummins

• “Summer is Here” by Renée Watson

bonding experience.”

McCaffrey encourages parents and caregivers to point out and talk about what you and the child are looking at together. “This helps their developing brains make connections with words and pictures,” she said. “Also, early interaction with a physical book is important because children will take a greater interest in books when they observe the adult’s enjoyment in reading to them.”

Below is a sampling of some summer sessions in Alexandria libraries for young children ages 0-5. Parents and caregivers can find the full list of programs, along with book lists for preschool children, on the Alexandria Library website, alexlibraryva.org.

• Baby Time (Duncan Library) on Mondays at 10:15-10:45a.m. and 11:15-11:45 a.m. for little ones up to 14 months

• Storytime in the Reading Garden (Beatley Library) on Mondays and Thursdays at 10:30-11 a.m. for kids up to 8 years

• Baby and Toddler Time (Barrett Library) on Tuesdays at 11-11:35 a.m. for kids up to 23 months

• Family Storytime (Burke Library) on Tuesdays at 10:1511:15 a.m. for children up to 5 years

• Just Babies (Barrett Library) on Wednesdays at 11 a.m.-Noon for children up to 12 months

• Stories & Songs (Duncan Library) on Tuesdays at 10:1510:45 a.m. and 11:15-11:45 a.m. for kids up to 5 years old. Finally, don’t hesitate to ask librarians for suggestions of books on topics of interest to your little ones, and they will look forward to visiting the library regularly. That’s a great way to get a young child started on the exciting and colorful path to literacy this summer.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 39

Photo: Pixabay

Reading to a child from the very beginning is important

BOOK LOVER

The Basics’ Offers Fun Activities to Support Literacy

Kids’ First Years embraces The Basics, which are simple yet powerful principles to help children thrive in the early years. One of the principles is “Read and Discuss Stories” and below are examples of activities tied to this principle. Learn more about The Basics at kidsfirstyears.org/basics.

• Make a cozy corner or book nook for reading

with your child. Involve your child in choosing a comfy chair or a special spot and gathering pillows and books for it.

HARMONY LOAN

• When reading with your child, point to the pictures as you talk about them. For example, say “Where is the mouse?”

followed by “There’s the mouse!”

• Let your child hold the book and turn the pages.

Board books like “Pat the Bunny” have thick pages that are easier for little fingers to turn.

Elisar M. Alassaf

CommonWealth

One Federal Credit Union

Elisar M. Alassaf serves as the Market Development Specialist at CommonWealth One Federal Credit Union, where she is committed to strengthening the financial well-being of the Alexandria community through impactful partnerships. A Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor, Elisar holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Public Relations from George Mason University. Deeply engaged in community service, she volunteers with Alexandria City High School’s Academy of Finance, United Community, Ballyshaners, and the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Run. She also contributes her leadership to The Chamber ALX’s Professional Women’s Network Steering Committee and CommonWealth One’s ONECulture Committee.

Kat Ashmore

City of Alexandria’s Workforce Development

Kat Ashmore is the Chief of Workforce Development for the City of Alexandria, where she leads strategic initiatives that empower job seekers with the tools, training, and support needed to achieve long-term eco -

nomic mobility. She holds a Master of Science from Fordham University’s Graduate School of Social Service and is recognized for her person-centered leadership, innovative problem-solving, and ability to build high-performing teams. Passionate about equity, Kat develops tailored, impactful programs that serve Alexandria’s most vulnerable populations. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys restoring her 1890s farmhouse with her partner, Cameron, and their three children.

Mary Bramley

City of Alexandria’s Office of Historic Alexandria

Mary Bramley is a skilled fundraising professional focused on preserving Alexandria’s rich history by connecting individuals to the City’s past. As Historic Alexandria’s first dedicated development hire, she established a robust fundraising program from the ground up, launching major gifts, individual giving, corporate sponsorships, and legacy giving efforts. A compelling storyteller, Mary brings the city’s museum initiatives to life, illustrating both their historical relevance and the daily work that sustains them. She also serves as editor of the Historic Alexandria Quarterly, where she highlights the department’s ongoing contributions to the City. Mary holds a Master’s in Education from the University of Southern California and a BA in History from George Mason University.

Amber Bryson

Dope Focus & City Kitchen

Amber Bryson is the founder and director of Dope Focus LLC, a creative platform she launched in January 2023 to amplify the voices of self-taught artists from the DMV area. With a focus on elevating underrepresented talent, Amber built Dope Focus as a space where artists can share their work free from the constraints of traditional, profit-driven galleries. Beyond this initiative, she partners with local nonprofits and small businesses to enhance their community impact and streamline operations. Through her work, Amber fosters meaningful connections across the arts, nonprofit, and business sectors—promoting collaboration, education, and collective growth.

Rodrigo Costas De La Fuente

City of Alexandria’s Information Technology Services

As a Principal GIS Analyst with the City of Alexandria, Rodrigo Costas De La Fuente has the privilege of serving the community in which he resides by supporting citywide technology initiatives and collaborating with state and local partners.

Meet

40

BY KEVIN DAURAY

Each year the Alexandria Chamber of 40 who have made a difference in Alexandria. 2025 work for nonprofits, city government, on this list shares a common characteristic: and kindness to help others. This list to public service. The 40 Under 40 Awards Celebration

Finding thoughtful and responsible ways for technology to help drive and draw understanding to complex topics that face our local communities is something he is passionate about. He is active in volunteering with ALIVE!, an organization that helps prevent food and housing insecurity in Alexandria. Rodrigo also received dual bachelor degrees in Environmental Policy and Planning and Geography from Virginia Tech.

All photos courtesy

Nathan CurryFisher

Mekanic

Nathan Curry-Fisher is a graphic designer specializing in the development of cohesive brand systems, marketing campaigns, and polished conference identities. As Senior Designer at Mekanic, his work spans a

Meet The

40 UNDER FORTY

Plus One

of Commerce honors 40 people under the age of Alexandria. Some of the individuals selected for government, and financial institutions. Each honoree characteristic: They use their creativity, knowledge, list also recognizes a Youth Honoree committed Celebration is on July 17.

courtesy Chamber ALX

diverse client base—from local Alexandria businesses to national and international organizations. Since joining the firm in 2017, Nathan has sought to make a meaningful contribution to the Alexandria community while continuing to evolve professionally. A Northern Virginia native, he has called Alexandria home since 2022. He holds a bachelor’s degree in graphic design with a minor in art history from James Madison University.

Sada Dahouk

Burke & Herbert Bank

Sada Dahouk is a Mortgage Loan Officer at Burke & Herbert Bank, where she helps individuals and families achieve homeownership while contributing to the broader financial well-being of her community. Since relocating to Virginia five years ago, she has become

deeply involved in Alexandria’s local initiatives. Sada serves on the board of the West End Business Association, is the Event & Engagement Director for CatRad Creative, and co-chairs the Alexandria Seaport Foundation’s Event Committee. Her ongoing support for Community Lodgings, financial literacy efforts, and small business advocacy reflects her strong commitment to community development. Sada combines industry expertise with a collaborative spirit to help build a stronger, more inclusive Alexandria.

Lucy Dakwar

Thompson Italian Chef Lucy Dakwar, a proud Palestinian hailing from Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, has built a remarkable culinary career by blending her heritage with her extensive restaurant experience. She began her journey in New York City at acclaimed establishments like L’Apicio and Fausto, where she honed her craft and rose through the ranks. A trailblazer, Lucy became the first female butcher at the iconic Commander’s Palace in New Orleans. Now serving as Executive Chef at Thompson Italian in Alexandria, she showcases her creativity through innovative Italian cuisine, earning acclaim for dishes that reflect her roots and passion for culinary excellence.

Nicole Davi National Council for Adoption

Nicole Davi is a dedicated advocate and professional with a passion for enhancing the lives of children and families. As the Director of Research at the National Council For Adoption, she leads research initiatives that drive impactful changes within the adoption community. Nicole also serves on the City of Alexandria’s Children, Youth and Families Collaborative Commission, advising on policies and plans affecting youth and families. Nicole’s multifaceted career includes roles in adoption education, dependency case management, and policy analysis. She graduated with a B.S. in Family Youth and Community Sciences from the University of Florida.

Brandon DeChirico

ALX Community

Brandon DeChirico is a seasoned hospitality professional with a strong background in the strategic growth and development of hospitality businesses. Known for his thoughtful blend of creativity and structure, he consistently delivers solutions that align with the needs of both clients and teams. Brandon places a strong emphasis

on people-centered leadership, taking time to understand and respond to the unique needs of every individual to create outstanding guest experiences. His talent for building meaningful relationships and cultivating service-driven environments has earned him respect across the industry. Committed to innovation and ongoing improvement, Brandon continues to lead with insight and impact in the hospitality sector.

Caity Deets

Hilton Garden Inn

Alexandria Old Town

Caity Deets, a Virginia Beach native, studied Hospitality & Tourism Management at Virginia Tech before pursuing a hotel career in Alexandria. She piloted the Manager in Training program for OTO, working in top hotels in Washington, DC, and National Harbor. In 2021, Caity became one of the youngest General Managers in the field, at HMP Properties in Woodbridge. In 2023, she joined Donohoe Hospitality Services as General Manager of the Hilton Garden Inn Alexandria Old Town. Passionate about diversity and teamwork, Caity excels at leading teams to success and staying actively involved in the community.

40 UNDER 40

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 41

Heather Derflinger

Strata Clean Energy

Heather Derflinger is a dedicated environmental advocate and Government Relations Manager at Strata Clean Energy, leading legislative efforts to advance Virginia’s renewable energy goals. Heather fosters enduring relationships across Virginia, positioning herself as a trusted voice in energy development. Committed to community stewardship, she actively volunteers and mentors future leaders. As a proud VCU graduate with a degree in mass communications, Heather’s passion for public policy and sustainability is reflected in her leadership and advocacy. Through her work and volunteer engagements, she continues to drive meaningful progress in clean energy and community engagement across the Commonwealth.

Dr. Emily Dillard

Alexandria City Public Schools

Dr. Emily Dillard is an accomplished PreK–12 technology leader with over

nine years of administrative experience driving innovation in education. She currently serves as Director of Instructional Technology for Alexandria City Public Schools, leading major initiatives such as the AI integration strategy and Canvas LMS adoption. A Certified Educational Technology Leader, Dr. Dillard also serves on the CoSN AI Committee and the City of Alexandria’s Commission on Information Technology. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from The George Washington University and teaches in its Educational Leadership program. Her work centers on engagement and transformative digital learning.

Crystal C. Ellington

SAIC

Crystal Ellington, MSM, is a communications and data expert who crafts compelling stories through data and its impact. Currently, she serves as the Strategic Communications Lead at SAIC, supporting the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Critical Technologies. Crystal has been a fellow in the Truman National Security Project, the George W. Bush Presidential Center Stand-To Veterans Leadership Program, and the Next Step Management Program at Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College. She is a proud dual graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, holding a B.S. in Aviation Communications and an M.S. in Management with a Certification in Business Data Analytics.

Amelia Fernandez American Physical Therapy Association

Amelia, a native of northern Virginia, is a staff member at the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). She joined APTA in 2011, where she played a key role in launching the association’s social media and video presence. In 2022, driven by her passion for volunteerism and her dedication to supporting APTA’s members, Amelia transitioned into her current role focused on volunteer engagement. Today, she manages volunteer groups, oversees engagement and recognition efforts, and more. Amelia holds a master’s degree in exercise science from Pennsylvania Western University (formerly California University of Pennsylvania), along with two bachelor’s degrees in communications and history from the University of North Carolina Wilmington.

Rebecca Fetters

The Child & Family Network

Centers

Rebecca Fetters, Director of Family Services at the Child and Family Network Centers (CFNC), works to provide holistic education and wrap-around services

to children and families in the City of Alexandria. Rebecca focuses on building relationships with CFNC families and providing bilingual trauma-informed care to prepare and empower children and families for success in school and life. Rebecca has a Bachelor of Arts in both Spanish and International Affairs from Gettysburg College as well as a certificate in Early Education Leadership from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. She is a member of The Chamber ALX’s 20242025 Leadership Alexandria class.

Joanna Fortin

Animal Welfare League of Alexandria

Joanna Fortin is an accomplished leader in animal welfare, with twenty years of experience in sheltering and community-centered animal care. As Director of Community Programs at the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria, she leads innovative initiatives that connect pets and their people with vital resources. Joanna serves on the Board of Directors for the Virginia State Animal Response Team and is a graduate of the Leadership Alexandria Class of 2023. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology with a minor in Psychology from George Mason University. She is committed to developing collaborative programs that improve animal welfare and strengthen Alexandria.

Erika Gaitan ALIVE!

Erika Gaitan, a lifelong resident of Alexandria, is the Client Services Director at ALIVE!, where she supports vulnerable families. Since joining the organization in 2021 as an Eviction Prevention Navigator, she has helped more than 760 households avoid eviction. Erika played a pivotal role in launching two food banks and overseeing the renovations of ALIVE! House, a transitional shelter for families in need. She has also been a key contributor to the city’s Eviction Prevention Task Force. Erika’s enduring passion for serving her community continues to fuel her impactful work.

Jon Greenwich Virtus Capital

Jon Greenwich, Founder and Managing Executive of Virtus Capital, has successfully grown his firm from a startup to over $170 million in assets under administration in less than five years. With two decades of entrepreneurial experience, he specializes in guiding businesses and individuals through complex financial challenges. A former Division I athlete and coach, Jon has mentored both professionals and athletes in Northern

Virginia, where he has lived and worked for over 35 years. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland and a master’s in finance from Georgetown University.

Bernadette Guastini

MGM National Harbor

Bernadette is the Director of Communications for MGM National Harbor, overseeing PR and communications strategy across the property’s key areas, including its casino, dining venues, and entertainment theater. She is particularly passionate about promoting the resort’s community engagement and charitable initiatives, volunteering with Nourish Now, the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association of Washington, DC, and the Washington Commanders’ Harvest Feast through her work with MGM. Originally from Atlanta, Bernadette has lived in the area for a decade and currently calls the Del Ray neighborhood home. She is a proud graduate of the University of Georgia.

Keyon Hammond Get Plated

Keyon Hammond, a culinary leader since 2005, rose from entry-level roles to executive management

in platinum-rated country clubs before launching Get Plated Catering with his wife Alexandria in 2014. From a humble townhome kitchen in Manassas, they built one of the DMV’s most sought-after catering companies, serving high-profile clients—including the country’s first Madam Vice President—and earning national acclaim in The Knot, Washingtonian Weddings, Brides Magazine, and more. Keyon’s leadership, commitment to community, and advocacy for diversity in the events industry have made Get Plated a standout. His passion for excellence continues to drive innovation, recognition, and exceptional service across the region.

Wynn Hunsaker

Alexandria Economic Development Partnership

Wynn Hunsaker is Real Estate Project Manager at the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership (AEDP), where he supports business attraction and retention through commercial real estate analysis and development. Previously, he was VP of Leasing and Acquisitions at a real estate asset management firm. Wynn holds a Finance degree from Virginia Tech, a CCIM designation, and RPA certification, and is pursuing his MBA. He is active in ICSC and NAIOP Northern Virginia. Wynn is proud to both work and reside in Alexandria. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his wife and new baby girl, his most rewarding role yet.

Fiona Josu, MS, CSM

Chayil Business Solutions

Fiona Josu is the founder and principal consultant of Chayil Business Solutions and a Keller Williams Realtor, specializing in helping businesses scale through effective systems and empowering families to build generational wealth through homeownership. She leads Agape Ward, a nonprofit organization supporting orphaned children in Sierra Leone, and serves as Head of Department and on the Board of Ministers at her local church, where she also organizes community outreach events and global initiatives. Dedicated to service and legacy-building, Fiona makes a positive impact both locally and globally. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Delaware and proudly serves clients across the Greater Washington DC Metro area.

Alexandra Kramer

Cake Faith Bakery, Fairfax County Public Schools, & District of Columbia Public Schools

Alex Kramer is the owner and CEO of Cake Faith Bakery, a thriving business in Springfield, Vir-

ginia, built on a cherished 40-year family recipe. Passionate about both entrepreneurship and community, Alex has been coaching basketball since 2016, instilling teamwork and discipline in young athletes. Since 2018, Alex has also dedicated time to special education, advocating for inclusive learning and student success. Balancing business, mentorship, and education, Alex continues to make a meaningful impact in multiple fields. Whether in the kitchen, on the court, or in the classroom, Alex’s commitment to excellence and community shines through in all endeavors.

Richard Lee

Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii

Richard is the President and CEO of Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii Alexandria, where he leads a dynamic team and fosters a community-focused brand. Passionate about both entrepreneurship and leadership, Richard also serves as Senior Vice President at Pantheon Integrated Solutions, a leading government consulting firm, where he provides strategic insights and oversees critical projects. Drawing from his diverse experiences in both the food service and consulting sectors, Richard combines innovative thinking with a commitment to excellence. He is driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact in both industries, delivering value and fostering growth at every level.

Emily Lenning

Blossom Marketing

Emily Lenning is a dedicated business owner, military spouse, and mom passionate about supporting the Alexandria community. As CEO of Blossom Marketing and Monumental Picnics, she employs residents and helps small businesses thrive. Emily fosters connection and growth while creating unforgettable experiences through her work. She volunteers in the local community and serves on the Leadership Council of the National Small Business Association (NSBA), advocating for small business interests. Committed to giving back, she works to strengthen the local economy and create meaningful opportunities for others.

Miranda Lewis

National Science Foundation & Junior League of Northern Virginia

Miranda Lewis is the President of the Junior League of Northern Virginia (JLNV) and a past Treasurer of the organization. Passionate about JLNV’s focus area of women helping women,

40 UNDER 40

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 43

she is dedicated to empowering and uplifting her community. Born and raised in Alabama, she brings a keen sense of Southern hospitality and leadership to her work. Beyond her volunteer efforts, she enjoys life with her husband of 11 years and their almost oneyear-old child. Through her commitment to service and leadership, she continues to make a meaningful impact in the lives of women and families in Northern Virginia.

Michelle Madison MICHE.studio LLC

Michelle Madison is the owner and lead designer of MICHE.studio LLC, a boutique woman and disability-owned design studio. Based in Alexandria, MICHE (rhymes with niche) specializes in Hospitality interior design and Revit for Interiors, a curated training program. She has been in the DC metro area design industry for a decade, with a focus on a range of projects from multi-family to hospitality, new construction to renovation. Michelle is the President of NEWH (Network of Executive Women in Hospitality) DC metro chapter in 2025. She particularly enjoys giving back to the local design community and mentoring the next generation of design leaders.

Zoya Mahajan

Cobalt Settlements

Zoya Mahajan is a dynamic business leader and advocate, committed to strengthening Alexandria’s economic and social landscape. As Director of Business Development at Cobalt Settlements, she drives strategic partnerships and real estate growth. A retired 1st Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force, she served as a flight medic, airlifting wounded warriors and providing critical care. She became a nationally certified EMT at 18 and later founded an NGO aiding remote medical areas in Peru. Zoya specialized in Alzheimer’s and dementia care nursing during COVID-19 and now serves on the Executive Leadership Team for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. As the part-time Executive Director of C2 Education, she remains committed to being a resource, leader, and catalyst for change.

Stephanie Marzelli

City of Alexandria’s Criminal Justice Services

Stephanie Marzelli is a dedicated, passionate leader in the field of forensic behavioral health with 15

years of experience advocating for access to mental health services for underserved communities. As a licensed clinical social worker, she utilizes her therapeutic knowledge and program development skills in her role as the Supervisor of the Forensic Behavioral Health Services Team for the City of Alexandria’s Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court. She is deeply committed to the mission of equitable, high-quality services for all. A proud Pennsylvanian, Stephanie received her undergraduate degree from Bucknell University and her graduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania.

Taylor L. O’Hara

Verdence Capital Advisors

Taylor O’Hara, a Fairfax County native, is an experienced Financial Advisor with nine years of expertise in comprehensive financial planning. She specializes in wealth-building and preservation, serving entrepreneurs and professionals in Alexandria, VA. Taylor has trained other advisors and mentors aspiring wealth associates. A CFP candidate, she currently ranks in the top 5% of advisors for client experience and has maintained a $40 million book of assets under management. Outside of work, Taylor is an active Founders Club Park Association Member, volunteers with Winners Lacrosse, and cohosts the Alexandria Seaport Foundation’s Wine on the Water.

Richard Kaleekal Oommen, MBA

Woodbine Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center

Richard Oommen serves as the Director of Human Resources and Employee Engagement at Woodbine Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center, bringing 18 years of experience in healthcare, including 9 years specializing in human resources with a focus on employee relations and organizational efficiency. With certifications in business analytics and supply chain management, Richard excels at finding creative solutions in resource-constrained environments. With an M.B.A. from William Paterson University, Richard has been instrumental in improving employee retention at Woodbine, while his partnerships with local schools have helped establish a steady pipeline of candidates to meet the facility’s staffing needs.

Silas Pace

Carydale Apartments Management, LLC

Silas Pace, a lifelong Virginian, hails from Rappahannock County, on the rural outskirts of Northern Virginia. After studying at Shenan -

doah University, he has spent the past 10 years living in Alexandria and Arlington. As the Chief Financial Officer of Carydale Apartments, Silas played a pivotal role in maintaining stability during the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic, all while navigating an often-misunderstood industry. Passionate about changing the public’s perception of the real estate sector, he is committed to bridging the gap between the industry and the community. Living and working in Alexandria, Silas is deeply invested in the area’s growth and continues to contribute to its thriving future.

Matt Robertson

AlexRenew

Matt Robertson has been the Director of Communications at AlexRenew since 2022, overseeing the organization’s communications and outreach to customers, the Alexandria community, staff, and all other internal and external stakeholders. With 15 years of experience in communications for utilities, Matt’s strong focus on continuous learning, leadership, and adaptability has helped him thrive in the dynamic field of communications. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Marketing from Christopher Newport University, as well as a Master of Science in Strategic Communications and Public Relations from Purdue University.

Sarah Shirck

Yes&

Sarah Shirck, SVP, Yes&, is recognized for her expertise in organizational growth, change management, strategic communications, and executive coaching. She has advised top Federal agencies, private sector firms, and non-profits through transformative change, crises, and strategic communications challenges.

A key contributor to the 4A’s Standard for Agency Operations and Business Transformation, Sarah has shaped industry best practices and is recognized as one of DC’s Top Women Leaders of 2025 by Women We Admire. With a reputation for guiding organizations through complex challenges, Sarah delivers lasting impact in high-stakes, mission-critical environments, helping leaders and teams navigate transformation with clarity and purpose.

Ajashu Thomas

SKDK

Ajashu Thomas is a communications strategist

with a passion for storytelling and impact. With a career spanning government, politics, and nonprofits, she brings a unique blend of strategic insight and handson experience to every challenge. At SKDK, she partners with corporate, philanthropic, nonprofit, and government clients to craft compelling narratives that resonate. She also served in the Obama Administration at the U.S. Department of Transportation. Ajashu sits on the board of the Alexandria Transit Company (DASH) and serves on the advisory council of the Alexandria Tutoring Consortium. Ajashu is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Danielle Thorne

Alexandria City Public Schools

Danielle Thorne was born and raised in Alexandria where she was a three sport athlete, playing volleyball, basketball, and soccer for the Titans. She attended St. Mary’s College of Maryland where she earned her Bachelor’s in Mathematics and played Varsity volleyball. She later earned a Master’s in Educational Technology Leadership from GWU. She is currently a math teacher at Alexandria City High School and is the Head Varsity Volleyball coach. In her first year as head coach, she led

her team to a State Championship making her the first female head coach in school history to win a State Championship.

Alexa Linn Williams Celebrated Experiences

A lifelong resident of Alexandria, Alexa Williams began her public service in eighth grade as a Senate Page in Richmond. After earning a double major in Political Science and American Studies from Wellesley College, she went on to work on national, statewide, and local political campaigns, earning recognition for her dedication and accomplishments. Today, Alexa enjoys curating exclusive international travel experiences and traveling herself, believing that positive travel experiences have the power to shape people’s perspectives. She is an active member of the Junior League of Northern Virginia and serves as a local precinct captain.

Lee S. Wilson

Salon deZEN

Lee Wilson is dedicated

to helping others express their inner beauty through her work as a hairdresser at Salon deZEN. Her commitment to community shines through her outreach efforts, leading service initiatives and educational events that promote equity, inclusivity, and support for women. She also serves on the board of her children’s school PTA, where she works to foster community engagement, advocate for family education, and support programs that promote equity for all children. Through her professional and volunteer work, Lee strives to create meaningful, lasting impact for individuals and families in Alexandria.

Cassandra L. Womack

Hotel Heron Cassie Womack has been a leader in the hospitality industry since 2007, beginning her career at a small café in Alexandria and advancing through management and leadership roles. As Food & Beverage Manager at Hotel Heron, she played a key role in launching the Good Fortune Rooftop Bar and Francis Hall speakeasy, boosting guest engagement and revenue through community-driven events. Cassie has also mentored students in business etiquette and supported initiatives like S.O.M.E. to feed the homeless. She is an active advocate with the DC Mayor’s Office of LGBTQIA Affairs, contrib -

uting to World Pride 2025 celebrations and advocating for equality. With a B.A. from Shenandoah University and an M.B.A. from DeVry University, Cassie remains a lifelong learner, continuously pursuing growth through new certifications and experiences.

Catherine “Cassie” Page –YOUTH HONOREE

Bishop Ireton High School

Catherine “Cassie” Page is a recent graduate of Bishop Ireton High School and the Co-Chair of the Dynamic Teen Coalition—the first United Nations-affiliated board led entirely by teens. A passionate advocate for STEM education and digital governance, Cassie mentors young innovators and serves as a STEM All-Star at EXPLR’s National STEM Festival.

Her commitment to public service and policy led her to an internship in the U.S. House of Representatives, where she focused on technology and environmental policy initiatives. Cassie’s leadership and impact have earned her national recognition, including a nomination for Girls Leading Change by the White House Gender Policy Council. Cassie will continue her academic and advocacy journey at American University this fall.

New Poetry Collection Revisits Easier Times

John Kropf is an enthusiast for preserving the stories and history from America’s Midwest and does so through speaking, teaching, and writing. But there is more to his story.

Kropf moved from Ohio to DC to work for the State Department on international law. There, he turned his focus to data protection law, and he extended that to Midwest history.

He has authored three books, “A Midwestern Heart: Poems,” “Color Capital of the World: Growing Up with the Legacy of a Crayon Factory,” and “Unknown Sands: Travels in the World’s Most Isolated Country.”

His most recent work, “A Midwestern Heart,” is an assemblage of life’s moments, very relatable to most of us. Kropf writes about important aspects of our past that inform our traditions. His work also revolves around the deep sense of community and an environment where everyone feels like family.

sonal challenge.

There is an old adage adopted from a Thomas Wolfe novel: “You can never go home again.” It means that although your perspective of the past is always positive, when you return, it is never the same because you have, in fact, changed.

Kropf’s very short poem, “Wild Town”, takes a very different spin.

observations about the world, Kropf explained.

Collins is best known for conversational, clever poems that draw readers in with witty humor that leads them to quirky, tender, and profound everyday remarks. I think the Collins effect is present in Kropf’s “Irony of Loyalty.” In eleven words, readers may conclude it is easier to make and keep enemies in one’s life than friends.

When asked about the most difficult aspect of writing poetry, Kropf admitted it’s the ending. “And also, not being too glib with my poems,” he shared. “I’d often start a poem about an observation and try to find a clever way to end them. That can be annoying and predictable if you’re the audience.”

Review: A Midwestern Heart: Poems

Publisher: Bottom Dog Press

Author: John Krop

Reviewed by: Ralph Peluso, Literary Editor

Zebra Rating: 5 Stripes

Elaine’s Literary Salon JUNE Calendar

ShortCon Noir at the Bar

Fri, 06/06, 7-9 PM

Recently, I asked Kropf why he ventured into poetry and what he hoped to accomplish by exploring the craft. “I love wordplay and the fun you can have with language,” he said. “I wanted to take my love of words and see if I could transform it into poems. Poems can deliver short, powerful messages in a way that prose can’t.” He added that “poetry was a challenge to see if I could work in a different context with language.” Kropf delivered on his per-

I ran wild, then I ran away from a Northern Ohio town.

But I took the town and my wild ways with me.

If you spend time reflecting on this poem’s meaning, you’ll find it worthwhile.

When asked who inspired him, Kropf talked about Billy Collins, whose work he calls “accessible.”

He can start a poem about a box of Cheerios and lead you to thoughtful

The author grouped “A Midwestern Heart” into seven everyday themes: Childhood, Seasons, Work, Travel, Stories, Time, and short amusements, which he referred to as the Penny Arcade. My favorite section is Time. The section is quirky, especially when you travel across the international date line into tomorrow without finishing today or springing ahead and falling back as most of the US does each year.

“A Midwestern Heart” is a pleasant, easy-to-read compilation of poems and an elegy for things like test patterns and 7-UP cans. Everyone can enjoy the collection. This snippet is guaranteed to make you smile: digital morning, everything needs a password, everyone forgets

Born in Sandusky and raised in Erie County, Kropf enjoyed a career

CONTINUED ON PAGE 69

ShortCon Conference (ticket required) Sat, 06/07, 8am-5pm

Christine Kessides Interview (A Tail Tale) Sun, 06/08, 12-3pm

Rev. Dr. Robert Flanagan Interview (Courage to Thrive) Wed, 06/11, 6-9 pm

John Gilstrap Interview (Burned Bridges) Thurs, 06/12, 6-9pm

Sarah DeBlock Interview (The Year of Sarah) Sat, 06/14, 12-3pm

NVWC Book Club, Dreama Frisk (Before We Left the Land) Wed, 06/25,6:30-9pm

Jeffrey James Higgins Book Launch (The Havana Syndrome) Thurs, 06/26,6-9pm

Author's Guild Meet-and-Greet

Happy Hour Fri, 06/27, 6-9pm

Fearless Creativity 4-Author Panel Sat, 06/28, 12-3pm

Ralph Peluso

Courtesy photos

Author John Kropf

Margie Warrell Explores Bravery in ‘The Courage Gap’

THE CONCEPT REFERSTOTHE SPACE BETWEENWHATWE KNOWWE SHOULD DOANDWHATWEACTUALLY DO

BY SUSAN SULLIVAN

Ever have one of those “if only I had spoken up” moments? Those brief but significant times when a thought could have been expressed and likely would have changed the outcome of a situation? According to Alexandria resident Dr. Margie Warrell, these moments represent the courage gap – the space between what we know we should do and what we actually do.

In her new book, “The Courage Gap: 5 Steps to Braver Action,” she explains how fear creates this gap between thought and action, and offers a practical five-step framework that distills research and modern wisdom to help people manage their anxiety

the stories we’re telling ourselves keep us from taking the very actions that would help us address our challenges better, sometimes making us more stressed, keeping us stuck or living too safely. In the process, we inadvertently sell ourselves short.”

your reality, they create it,” she notes in the book, emphasizing how our self-protective instincts can drive us to remain silent when we should speak up or stick with the status quo when we should disrupt it.

and take the brave action they often avoid.

“All behavior is belief-driven,” Warrell explained, drawing on over twenty years as an executive coach. “Yet often

The author acknowledges early in the book that we are living in a period of deep polarization and urges readers to “double down on critical thinking” and avoid being swept into a “victimhood mindset” that can undermine the very agency we most need to cultivate in ourselves. She suggests paying attention to the narrative we have about our situation, stating that if what we are telling ourselves isn’t empowering, then take action to improve our circumstances. Warrell argues that a lack of courage ultimately makes us less secure over time, not more so.

“Your stories don’t only describe

Warrell said that she tries to embody the courage champion in others. She recently stepped away from her role as Senior Partner in the C-Suite advisory at Korn Ferry to run her own business. “Sometimes the things we most need to do are those that are the least comfortable,” she explained.

In “The Courage Gap,” she shares numerous experiences. She has had an incredible journey through life. She grew up on a dairy in rural Australia, backpacked around the world after graduating from college, raised four children across multiple continents, and moving from Asia to Alexandria during the

Courtesy photos

Author Margie Warrell, PhD

Level Up! An Alternative Orchestra Concert Based on Video Games

BY SAM ESPACH

When someone says “symphony orchestra,” they’re probably thinking of some fancy orchestra playing 17th century music written by some dead guy in a powdered wig. However, the Symphony Orchestra of Northern Virginia (SONOVA), based in Alexandria, flipped that idea upside down in their Friday,

May 16, concert in Annandale. Level Up was the name of their game: An interactive “controller-based concert”

featuring video game music from the last four decades and an on-stage video game designed entirely

by the orchestra.

SONOVA is not your typical orchestra. For example, the audience is encouraged to make as much as noise during the concerts as they want. And there is always an overarching theme. From the moment you walk in the door at their performances, you are immersed in a world of video games, winter wonderland,

Crab Shack Turns 100: Centennial Concert

Celebrates Del Ray’s Quirkiest Music Hub

BY MARY WADLAND

One of Del Ray’s most charmingly eccentric landmarks is turning 100—and throwing a concert to prove she’s still got it.

Crab Shack Live Centennial, happening Saturday, June 14, will feature an unforgettable night of music, community, and celebration at “The Shack,” a 1925 Sears kit house turned neighborhood music haven. Despite drafty windows, chipped paint, and a raccoon squatter, this lovingly worn home is pure magic inside. “I feel like I can do anything when I walk in here,” said one visitor.

Owned and operated by Alexandria native Jack Kilby,

Ticket prices:

$25 General Admission

$35 VIP (10% merch discount, reserved seating, drink ticket)

$45 Table Reservations (table service, CSM pint glass, merch discount, free drink)

Crab Shack Live Centennial promises to be an inspiring showcase of local talent, a community reunion, and a love letter to the little house that could. Past shows have drawn 125+ people—so grab your tickets early and come celebrate the sound of Del Ray.

Tickets: Scan the QR code on the flyer or follow @CrabShackMusic online.

The Shack is now a full-time recording studio, lesson space, and concert venue. “I want to host an event that highlights the immense talent of the students, recording artists, and the abundance of goodness that this house provides me,” said Kilby. “This is a night for the community to celebrate the arts happening right here in the heart of their neighborhood, particularly from a place they might otherwise look at as a dilapidated eyesore.”

The centennial concert builds on past Crab Shack Live events, including last year’s Student Revue and prior showcases featuring artists who recorded at The Shack. This year’s celebration features both—young mu-

Photos: Sam Espach for The Zebra Press

ABOVE: SONOVA performs themed concerts that immerse the audience.

LEFT: Attendees could play classic video games during the concert.

RIGHT: Catalina Goodman, a financial sponsor of SONOVA, dressed as Mario.

WHAT'S ONSTAGE IN THE DMV FOR JUNE AND JULY

• Arena Stage – A Wrinkle in Time June 12 th – July 15th

We Are Gathered through June 15th www.ArenaStage.org

The Little Theatre of Alexandria

– The Play That Goes Wrong June 7th – June 24th www.TheLittleTheatre.com

• Studio Theatre – Wipeout June 18 th - July 27th www.StudioTheatre.org

• Perisphere Theater – Marie Antoinette: The Color of Flesh June 6th – June 21st www.PerisphereTheater.com

• Toby’s Dinner Theatre –Disney’s The Little Mermaid through Aug 17th www.TobysDinnerTheatre.com

• Imagination Stage – Dory Fantasmagory Jun 18 th – Aug 3rd www.ImaginationStage.org

By Jordan Wright

• Everyman Theatre – The Mystery of Irma Vep – A Penny Dreadful through June 22nd www.EverymanTheatre.org

• 1st Stage Theatre – The Piano Lesson Jun 5th – Jun 22nd www.1stStageTheatre.org

• Keegan Theatre – Falsettos through June 15th www.KeeganTheatre.com

Synetic Theater – A Midsummer Night’s Dream July 17th – Aug 10 th www.SyneticTheater.org

• Shakespeare Theatre Company

– Frankenstein through June 29 th Duel Reality July 1st – July 20 th www.ShakespeareTheatre.org

• Theatre J – The Berlin Diaries June 4th – June 15th www.EDCJCC.org

• Signature Theatre – Hedwig and the Angry Inch through June 22nd

Broadway at The National –Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of the Temptations June 17th – June 22nd www.TicketMaster.com

The Untitled Unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson Musical through Jul 13th

• Signature Theatre and Wolf Trap Present Broadway in the Park June 28 th

www.SigTheatre.org

• Olney Theatre – Senior Class through June 22nd

Kim’s Convenience June 25th – Jul 27th www.OlneyTheatre.org

• Atlas Arts Mosaic Theatre –Andy Warhol in Iran through June 29 th www.AtlasArts.org

The Kennedy Center –Dungeons & Dragons – The Twenty Sided Tavern July 22nd – Aug 3rd

Les Miserables June 11th – July 13th www.Kennedy-Center.org

• The Puppet Company –Twisted Tales: The Three Goldilocks Gruff June 7th – June 29 th www.ThePuppetCompany.org

• Creative Cauldron – Disney’s Aladdin through June 15th www.CreativeCauldron.org

• Folger Theatre – Twelfth Night through June 22nd www.Folger.edu

• Workhouse Arts CenterJesus Christ Superstar through June 15th www.WorkhouseArts.org

• Round House Theatre – King James through June 22nd www.RoundHouseTheatre.org

• Dominion Stage – A Lovely Day to Kill Your Spouse June 13th – June 21st www.DominionStage.org

• Providence Players of Fairfax –Shooting Star June 6th –June 24th www.ProvidencePlayers.org

• The Gaithersburg Arts Barn –Bull in a China Shop June 6th – June 22nd www.GaithersburgMD.gov

• Arlington Players – You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown June 6th – June 8 th and June 13th – 15th www.TheArlingtonPlayers.org

Be sure to check with your favorite theaters to discover summer theater camps and classes for kids and adults.

A Wrinkle in Time via Arena Stage

Photo/Joan Marcus

Too Proud - The Life and Times of the Temptations via Broadway at The National

The Berlin Diaries via Theatre J

A Lovely Day to Kill Your Spouse via Dominion Stage

The Summer of Scares: Vampires, Sharks, and Dinosaurs, Oh My!

BY KELLY MACCONOMY

Action adventures and superhero stories have long been the box-office staple of summer’s start. This summer is instead blood red hot with screams. Beginning with last month’s monster hit, “Sinners,” and segueing into a summer-long celebration of “Jaws” at 50, it peaks with a return to Isla Nublar, the setting of “Jurassic Park,” in what may prove to be the most terrifying trip yet with “Jurassic World Rebirth.”

What’s better than Michael B. Jordan in one role? Two! He deftly portrays twins Smoke and Stack Moore in Ryan Coogler’s surprise blockbuster “Sinners.” This is Jordan’s fifth collaboration with Coogler, who wrote, produced, and directed. The film features original music by Ludwig Göransson.

Stack’s jukebox joint. But notes of traditional southern Black music, folk, and even lyrical Celtic literature were carefully curated by Göransson’s wife, music producer and musician, Serena Göransson.

As the title implies, “Sinners” is all about vengeance and redemption, but with a horror twist. At this point, it’s no secret that vampires crash the party while bringing salvation to some of the characters and, to a certain extent, the film. Vampire films are, by their very nature, formulaic. So it’s not about the suspense of what will happen, but WHEN???

Elements of “Sinners” are a wink and a nod to the Blaxploitation genre of the 1970s. Set in Depression Era Mississip-

pi and rife with racism, the sets, cars, costuming, colloquialisms, slang, and diverse musical motifs are transformative for the audience, not just to the bloodsucking undead.

Jordan’s superlative dual performances and Coogler’s direction/adaptation share the star billing with Göransson’s haunting score..It’s all about the blues at Smoke and

This space made possible by The Hoffman Town Center

Much like characters who are bitten, the music and instruments have a rebirth, taking on a life of their own. The score was performed using an authentic 1932 Dobro Cyclops guitar, which Cousin Sammie “Preacher Boy” Moore carries and plays from beginning to end. Be sure to stay for the entire credits roll, so you don’t miss the director’s post script and a final mo’ better blues. Sinners is a sizzling, sexy sleeper. After six weeks, the horror flick held the spot for the fifth highest box office earner of 2025, grossing $287 million worldwide. It has a 97% score on Rotten Tomatoes.

If vampire lore and Jordan don’t thrill you, then perhaps it’s time to go back in the water. Stephen Spielberg’s little film about a big fish that precipitated the original summer blockbuster turns 50 on June 20th. Cue the Oscar-winning John Williams baseline…… Da Dum, Da Dum, Dadumdadum…..! Fun fact, in 2013, the iconic theme was used to play off interminable Oscar acceptance speeches. Another fun fact: “Jaws” grossed $260 CONTINUED ON PAGE 54

Courtesy photo

ABOVE: Filming Bruce, the uncooperative mechanical shark, in Jaws on Martha’s Vineyard in 1974.

LEFT: The original promotional poster for “Jaws”

RIGHT: Wendy Benchley, wife of author Peter Benchley, looking shark-shocked for the camera.

Courtesy photo

Photo Kelly MacConomy

Courtesy photo

Michael B. Jordan delivers a notable performance times two as the Moore twins coming home to the Jim Crow south.

As Summer Starts, Here’s What Local Galleries Have to Offer

BY KELLY MACCONOMY

Feeling as if your July or August vacation can’t come soon enough? Why not take a staycay in June to tide you over until you can hit the beach? Tour the diverting exhibits on view at Alexandria’s galleries and art spaces.

Top of the June must-see order is the final week of “More Moments of Art” at River Farm. Nepenthe Gallery and Robert Murray of The Von Brahler Ltd. Gallery present a curated collection of floral-theme artwork. The exhibit, on view in the manor house of the magnificent Potomac riverside property, closes June 12. A closing reception will be held on June 5 from 5-7:30pm. Come for the party. Stay for the gardens and view.

Nepenthe Gallery turns the first month of this summer’s ART + WINE+ CHEESE Thursdays into ar-tastic gallery nights. Following the More Moments of Art event at River Farm, Nepenthe Nights re-

Art NewZ&

By Kelly MacConomy Arts Editor

turns to the Fort Hunt Road gal lery June 12 at 6pm for a Plein Air Painting Showcase featuring 40 works of art from the Alexandria Plein Air Society.

June 19th kicks off Summer Solstice: Five Local Artists, an annual

Nepenthe exhibition this year spotlights Saya Behnam, Mary Bockenek, Lucy Goddin, Margot Hanff, and Kelly St. Clair. Summer Solstice will be on exhibit until July 16, 2025.

Mark Nepenthe onto your late

June calendar as well. The gallery is hosting Movie Night Friday, June 20. They’ll be screening “Dorothy Gillespie: Courage, Independence & Color”, a documentary about the American abstract metal sculptor from Virginia. Her son, Gary Israel, will speak about his famous artist mother.

You won’t want to miss D-EG-A-S Bingo, back at Nepenthe’s ART+WINE+CHEESE on June 26 from 6-8 p.m. with local bingo caller Kim Gilliam selecting numbers beginning at 6:30pm. Prizes and Nepenthe Dollars will be awarded for each round.

Over in Del Ray it’s Helm’s Allee! Sail away at Del Ray Artisans Gallery with a nautical theme exhibit. Sing Me a Sea Shanty, curated by T.J. Feeley and Tiara Safic Martin, is on view from May 30 - June 29. The opening reception is Friday, June 6 from 7-9 p.m..

Tiara Safic-Martin has also been selected as one of two Alexan-

Hunt Slonem

Sam Gilliam

Photo GC Myers.

Take a vicarious voyage via the art of GC Myers, on exhibit at the Principle Gallery. “Heading Home,” oil on acrylic on canvas.

Photo: N McCarthy Art

“Sunset” by Nancy McCarthy. Her art is on exhibit at ten NOVA galleries this summer.

Photo Tiara Safic-Martin

vibrant colors

the summer season

kaleidoscopic

depiction

JUNE

JUNE

5

Eisenhower’s Hidden Top Secret from D-Day to V-E Day

7 p.m.-9 p.m.

Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum

201 S. Washington St.

The talk will offer expert insights into the strategic, historical, and human dimensions of D-Day. Learn about T Force and how it operated in the shadows under the personal direction of Eisenhower through the end of the war. $10

JUNE

7

RiverRenew Hooffs Run

Dedication Day

10 a.m.-12 p.m.

African American

Heritage Park

309 Holland Lane

Celebrate RiverRenew’s restoration of Hooffs Run with the dedication of new historical signage in African American Heritage Park and family-friendly activities focused on native plantings. Free

JUNE 7

Old Town Alexandria Arts & Crafts Fair

10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Waterfront Park

1 Prince St,

Volunteer Alexandria presents the Old Town Arts & Crafts Fair

providing entertainment for children and over 90 vendors. The fair features local and regional artisans who showcase their pieces across various mediums

including pottery, stationery, fabrics, paintings, jewelry, photography and more. Various food and drink vendors will also be available for purchase. Free

JUNE 7

60 Years of Preservation:

Celebrating Wright’s PopeLeighey House

5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

Woodlawn & Pope-Leighey House

9000 Richmond Hwy

Commemorate the historic move of the Pope-Leighey

House from Falls Church, VA, to its current home at Woodlawn—a move that saved this Frank Lloyd Wright-designed gem, thanks to the dedication of Marjorie Leighey and the National Trust for Historic Preservation. All tickets include (1) Complimentary Drink Ticket, Open House Tours of Pope-Leighey House, Access to Woodlawn to view our brand new special exhibit: Saving Pope-Leighey House: How Marjorie Leighey Rescued her Frank Lloyd Wright Home, and food and live entertainment.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 53

JUNE 19

Washington Revels Jubilee Voices Juneteenth Concert 1 p.m.-3 p.m.

Alexandria City Hall & Market Square

301 King St.

Enjoy traditional African American storytelling and songs reflecting the journey toward freedom with the Washington Revels Jubilee Voices ensemble. Weather dependent.

JUNE 14

Concert with 8th Green Machine Regiment Band at Fort Ward 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site 4301 W. Braddock Rd.

The 8th Green Machine Regiment Band will perform a concert of Civil War music on the Museum lawn at 11:00 a.m. This historical brass ensemble, sponsored by George Mason University, presents music of the 19th century on authentic period instruments.

JUNE 22

Family Day with Young Historians

2 p.m.-5 p.m.

Gadsby’s Tavern Museum

134 N. Royal St.

Junior Docents provide stationed tours throughout the two tavern buildings and operate special, hands-on activity stations about period clothing and chocolate making. Every Sunday, June 15 through Labor Day weekend 2-5 p.m., included in regular museum admission.

JUNE 28

8th Annual Alexandria Pride Fair

2 p.m.-6 p.m.

City Hall & Market Square

301 King St.

The Alexandria LGBTQ+ Task Force in partnership with the Alexandria Library, Department of Community and Human Services, and many community partners welcome you to the annual Alexandria Pride Fair. Visitors can get information about LGBTQ+ inclusive services in Alexandria, free and confidential health testing, and vaccines, plus enjoy LGBTQ+ Family Storytime, art and poetry workshops, music, refreshments, and LGBTQ+ Pride swag.

JULY 4

An American Celebration at Mount Vernon 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

George Washington’s Mount Vernon 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy

Celebrate our nation’s founding at Mount Vernon, the home of America’s first president! Watch as people from across

JUNE 19

world become U.S. citizens in a moving ceremony, and see a daytime fireworks show. This event is included with admission and is free for Mount Vernon members.

This year’s Juneteenth celebration includes poet, author, and the Northern Virginia Fine Arts Association Poet in Residence, KaNikki Jakarta. Discover the history of Juneteenth through hands-on activities, art, and poetry readings.

CHRIS COLLINS DANCE STUDIO CELEBRATES 49TH SEASON WITH JUNE 14 RECITAL

BY AMY JACKSON

Chris Collins Dance Studio (CCDS) is wrapping up its 49th season with its much-anticipated annual recital, “Showtime,” on Saturday, June 14, 2025. The performance will feature three shows at 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m., and 6 p.m., held at South County High School in Lorton, VA. Tickets are $25 cash per show.

This season saw a vibrant mix of returning and first-time dancers, hundreds of classes, and multiple award-winning competition performances. “Showtime” will highlight the talent, passion, and dedication of CCDS students through a variety of dance styles.

Founded by lifelong Alexandrian Chris Collins, the studio has become a beloved institution, inspiring generations through dance, confidence, and community. As CCDS looks ahead to its milestone 50th season beginning in August, the community prepares to honor Collins’ enduring legacy.

Z-MOVIES

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 50

million in its original theatrical run. Adjusted for inflation, that’s $1.5 billion.

Golden anniversary celebrations began in May with screenings across the country accompanied by live orchestral performances. On Mother’s Day weekend, the score was performed at Symphony Hall by the Boston Pops. You might not know that Williams was the 19th Boston Pops music director, conducting from 1980 to 1993.

Locally, the Alamo Drafthouse held sold-out “Jaws” parties complete with foam shark fin hats and bloody floaties in the drinks.

Over on Martha’s Vineyard, where it was filmed, the anniversary soirée kicks off Memorial Day and continues throughout the summer. Waterfront screenings, special guest speakers, and a themed exhibit are all on the calendar.

Appearances include Robert Shaw’s (Captain Quint) son Ian Shaw, an actor himself. He stars in a comedic theatrical production, “The Shark Is Broken,” based on behindthe-scenes drama during filming. “Jaws” author Peter Benchley’s wife, Wendy Benchley, will discuss her

late husband’s writing process for the book and the making of the movie, in which he had a cameo as a news reporter.. She will also speak about their involvement in shark conservation. Are you a “Jaws” FINatic like me? Martha’s Vineyard is the place to be. I was on island during filming in 1974. The scenes where swimmers race out of the water screaming bloody murder, presumably due to a shark attack, were actually a reaction to the cold South Beach ocean water. Most filming locations remained unchanged for decades, until recently, when a few properties were renovated.

If you can’t get to the Amity Homecoming Weekend from June 19 to 23, Universal Pictures is re-releasing “Jaws,” it will swim into 4K theaters from August 29 until September 4. You’re gonna need a bigger screen when the special extended 50th anniversary Blu-ray version drops June 17. Between immortal vampires, great white shark attacks, and megasaurus monsters roaming the earth, all I can say is “Encore!” The summer of scare is going to be JAW-SOME!!!

Photo: Amy Jackson

Chris Collins with the “Showtime” performance in 2022.

dria artists to do a commission for the HomeGrown daytime eatery opening in Old Town this summer. The new kitchen, serving locally-sourced breakfast fare, took over Brabo’s space at 1600 King Street. Tiara is a Bosnian-American artist and Alexandrian who cre ates colorful watercolors, acrylic and intricate pen landscapes.

the other local artist com missioned by HomeGrown for their new location. Sta cey is an academically trained artist and educator who encourages her stu dents to expand their per sonal expression through the creative process.

the lobby gallery through September 21. Seven member artists’ diverse expositions of color - demonstrating a variety of mediums

Center, Green Spring Farm, and Del Ray Artisans where she has work in the June exhibit. Her explorations of the natural world through painting are on display at with a solo art show from June 19-August 17. Opening and closing receptions are June 29 and August 24 from 2-4 p.m..

There’s no shortage of staycation diversions in Alexandria this summer. Be

Across town the Mark Center Alexandria Hilton, in partnership with the Alexandria Office of the Arts, presents Experiencing Color: Perspectives from Del Ray Artisans on exhibit in

sure to check out the hip happenings at Galactic Panther- the place to be for contemporary culture shock.

For fabulous fine art realism there’s the Principle Gallery with a last call for Geoffrey Johnson’s urbanscapes closing June 9, followed by perennial favorite GC Myers’ opening with a reception June 13, 6-8:30 p.m. Myers’ exhibit closes

July 7, 2025. Whether exploring art spaces along Upper and Lower King Street, in Old Town North or South, on the Avenue in Del Ray, the West End, or Downtown DC at the marvelous and free art museums, it’s all about artful escapes this summer. Find your art. Find yourself, and send us a postcard!

Photo Scott MacConomy

“Earl’ay in the Morning” by Scott MacConomy is on view in the Sing Me a Sea Shanty exhibit at Del Ray Artisans Gallery.

—Oscar Wilde

ZEBRA BOOK CLUB:“MARGO’S GOT MONEYTROUBLES”

Zebra Book Club met on May 27 at Mystic Bar & Grill to discuss the fun, quirky, and sometimes serious adventures of the resourceful heroine, Margo Millet. She is the main character of the book, “Margo’s Got Money Troubles” by Rufi Thorpe.

The novel introduced most attendees to the unconventional worlds of OnlyFans, TikTok, and professional wrestling. It tells a very human story about a 20-yearold woman facing an unplanned pregnancy. She realizes that if she wants to keep her baby, she needs

to earn money quickly.

Members agreed the narrative shifts throughout the book from first person to third person. The author’s choice ranged from irritating to merely an adjustment for readers. However, everyone found the characters in the novel were realistic and relatable. This was true even if they were sometimes appalled by their decision-making and life choices surrounding motherhood, as well as the cultural messaging around sex work and

CONTINUED ON PAGE 75

SALVATION ARMY MARKS 140 YEARS OF SERVICE

This year marks the 140th anniversary of The Salvation Army’s presence in Alexandria. Throughout the organization’s time in this city, it has remained committed to meeting spiritual and practical needs, continuing its mission of doing the most good.

The movement first arrived in Alexandria on August 27, 1885— just five years after The Salvation Army established its work in the United States.

Indoor meetings began in the 200 block of King Street. The Corps would relocate multiple times over the next several decades, often due to financial difficulties.

By 1915, the Corps had moved to 1600 King Street, and in 1919 it found a more permanent home at 319 King Street, just feet from its original meeting site. In 1948, The Salvation Army purchased and renovated the former theater across the street at 316 King Street, which served the community during a peri-

od of rapid city growth.

The Salvation Army began construction on a new building in the Del Ray neighborhood in 1964. The Corps officially relocated to 1804 Mount Vernon Avenue in 1965, where it continues to operate today.

During The Salvation Army’s international centennial celebrations in 1985, a historic plaque was installed outside City Hall, commemorating the site where Alexandria’s first Salvation Army meeting took place. The plaque was dedicated by General Jarl Wahlström, then the international leader of the organization.

May's Zebra Book Club met at Mystic Bar & Grill to discuss “Margo's Got Money Troubles.”

Photo: Lucelle O’Flaherty/The Zebra Press

The Salvation Army plaque located on the N. Royal side of Market Square.

Photo courtesy Lisa-Helene Lawson

Your Child Can Make a Difference With Volunteer Alexandria’s Youth Engaged in Service Program

BY MARION BRUNKEN

Discover what it means to be an active part of your community with Volunteer Alexandria’s Youth Engaged in Service (YES) Program. This is a free, hands-on opportunity for students in the 6th through 12th grades, where they can learn, connect, and give back.

Through this enriching program, students explore local social issues, meet this city’s civic and nonprofit leaders, and participate in meaningful volunteer projects. One past participant shared, “I was able to help my community in ways I didn’t know about before.”

The program follows the P.A.R.E. model—Preparation, Action, Reflection, and Evaluation—which encourages youth to critically reflect on their experiences and apply what they’ve learned.

The impact is clear:

• 94% of participants said they learned how to find meaningful volunteer opportunities

• 98% said they learned how to make Alexandria a better place Students will:

• Earn community service and service-learning hours

• Engage in thoughtful conversations about real-world issues

• Connect with peers and professionals from diverse backgrounds

• Gain exposure to careers in

service and nonprofit work

As one student put it, “I enjoyed how all of us came from different backgrounds together with a common goal of helping the community.”

This summer, Volunteer Alexandria is offering YES sessions in June, July, and August. Lunch and snacks are provided, and space is limited. Sign up today at volunteeralexandria.org/ youthandfamily

Volunteering isn’t just for adults—it’s a powerful experience for young people, too. When kids and teens get involved in service, they build confidence, compassion, and a stronger sense of purpose. They begin to understand that their voice and actions

matter.

Volunteer Alexandria connects people ages 6 and up with meaningful ways to give back. From preparing food for families in need to helping local libraries and shelters, there’s something for every age group and interest. Be part of something bigger. Make your summer count. Register today at www.VolunteerAlexandria.org.

• Saturday, June 7, Volunteer for the Arts & Crafts Fair — Set-up, serve beverages, manage traffic, or assist vendors at the annual Arts & Crafts Fair at Waterfront Park.

• Help Others Learn English — Project Access is seeking a teaching assistant to help En-

glish language learners. Assistants would help the primary teacher, provide one-on-one and small group support, and take attendance.

• Volunteer for a Museum — Engage visitors, support staff members, assist with events, and provide tours as a docent volunteer for the Lee-Fendall Museum. Six hours a month is expected. Training will be provided.

• Deliver Groceries to Seniors in Need — Senior Services of Alexandria is seeking volunteers to deliver groceries to seniors in need. Volunteers are most needed on the first Thursday in the month, but deliveries are flexible during the week.

• Help Students Learn to Read This Summer — NOVA Raft is an organization that helps Afghan refugees resettle in the region. They need volunteers to help tutor students and chaperone field trips during their summer camp. Training is provided.

BOARD SERVICE

Protect Children and Vulnerable People Online - Help shape the strategic direction and work closely with the day-to-day operations of DEFEND, an organization that aims to reduce online risks for children and vulnerable people.

Photo: Volunteer Alexandria

Kids can learn about the importance of giving back to the community through the YES program.

Police Mentor Middle Schoolers

BY ELIZA NELA

I nside Men’s Wearhouse at Potomac Yard, a group of sixth and seventh grade boys practiced tying ties and choosing professional attire with Alexandria police officers by their side as mentors. It was a powerful moment in a pilot program that’s about much more than clothing.

The event, held a few weeks ago, marked the eighth session of the Alexandria Initiative on Mentoring (AIM), a nine-week youth development program launched in March by the Alexandria Police Department (APD) in partnership with George Washington Middle School. The initiative pairs police officers with young boys for weekly sessions that aim to build trust, self-confidence, and life skills through mentorship entirely outside of officers’ paid work hours.

Chief of Police Tarrick McGuire said the program reflects his broader vision to rebuild bridges between the community and law enforcement. “This is about restoring traditional relationships where police and citizens look out for each other not just when laws are broken, but every day,” McGuire said.

Launched in partnership with George Washington Middle School, the AIM pro-

gram pairs officers with students in a mentorship setting that focuses on positive youth development, responsible decision-making, and long-term personal growth. Sessions have included field trips, life skills workshops, and honest conversations with community members including ex-offenders about life choices and consequences.

“I remember when I was in school, we had these kinds of events with police officers and other kinds of mentors, and more than anything, it got me curious about how they got where they did, what fueled their ambitions,” said Officer Johnny Larios. “Just enough of that curiosity can change someone’s life trajectory. My goal now is to be present, to listen, to plant the right seeds, and to guide without imposing anything.”

The Dress for Success event was one of the most memorable sessions so far, according to Lieutenant Ali Asonglefac, the program coordinator. “Most of these kids are used to t-shirts and sneakers,” Asonglefac said. “We’re opening a whole new world for them teaching workplace etiquette, confidence, and showing them what’s possible.”

During May and June, Yates Automotive will donate two cents a gallon to ACT for ALEXANDRIA

317 E Braddock Rd.

Photo by Katie Bishop/City of Alexandria

Officer Johnny Larios of the Alexandria Police Department guides a student through tying a necktie during the AIM program’s “Dress for Success” session.

Photo by Katie Bishop/City of Alexandria

Inside Men’s Wearhouse at Potomac Yard, a store associate shares his expertise with AIM program students, demonstrating different ways to tie a tie and offering tips on dressing for success.

Photo by Katie Bishop/City of Alexandria

Right to left: Chief Tarrick McGuire, GWMS Principal Jeanette Vinson, ACPS Superintendent Dr. Melanie Kay-Wyatt, and Councilman Canek Aguirre gather in support of the AIM mentoring program’s community impact.

Madelyn James Bow Bash for Pediatric Cancer Sees Record Turnout

BY JUDITH FOGEL

On August 13, 2022, Jackie and Dan Didio’s world was shattered when their baby girl, Madelyn James, lost her battle with cancer. Tiny Madelyn, a twin, left behind her sister, Hannah.

In the wake of their profound loss, the Alexandria parents found a way to transform their grief into a beacon of hope for other stricken families. The Madelyn James Pediatric Cancer Foundation was founded shortly after her death. Since then, the nonprofit has become a lifeline, providing financial and emotional support to families facing a pediatric cancer diagnosis.

On Friday, May 16, the foundation held its third annual Madelyn James Bow Bash at ALX Community—Waterfront. It drew a record 150 people and raised $56,000 for one family, surpassing last year’s total of $37,000.

The fundraiser is named in honor of Madelyn’s love of bows. Fittingly, the reception space was decked out in bows of every shape, size, and color. Attendees wore bows on their dresses, lapels, shoes, and hair, as they remembered the child’s unforgettable smile and deep blue eyes.

The night was also dubbed The Purple Bow Tie Party for Nico Ramirez, who passed away in March after his first birthday. The Ramirez family came to the event.

Alexandria officially recognized the day as Nico Ramirez and Madelyn James Day.

“Tonight is about honoring, and it is also about celebrating. It is about honoring Maddy and Nico and their lives and their stories,” said Mayor Alyia Gaskins. “Making sure that we continue to tell about the impact that those children have had, not only on their families but on each of us and everyone who got to hold and meet them.”

There to deliver a proclamation, she informed the crowd that in the last year, the number of families the foundation now supports has grown from three to six.

“It’s about celebrating all the ways

ABOVE LEFT: Jackie and Dan Didio, founders of Madelyn James Pediatric Cancer Foundation ABOVE RIGHT: Pablo and Claudia Ramirez (center), parents of Nico BELOW LEFT: The Thornley family is receiving support from the foundation. BELOW RIGHT: Mayor Gaskins spoke at the event. On the screen is a picture of Maddy.

that they continue to wrap around everyone that they come in contact with, making sure that no family has to go through this journey alone, making sure that all have an equal opportunity to be able to protect, prevent, survive, and treat the cancer they are diagnosed with,” she said.

In just three years, the Madelyn James Foundation has raised over $407,000, offering direct support to families with babies and toddlers undergoing cancer treatment. The nonprofit particularly helps families living in poverty.

This fundraiser comes at a critical time for pediatric cancer funding.

Jackie Didio is worried about cuts to cancer research that could greatly impact the ability to save children’s lives.

“The impact is devastating,”she told The Zebra. “We’ve already seen NIH cuts decrease drastically. We know that NIH only gives four percent of their budget every single year to childhood cancer. That’s it.

So when you cut funding for pediatric cancer, you’re significantly cutting back the portion of clinical trials that you can have access to and

also lifesaving medications. Clinical trials save lives, period.”

Dan Didio shared some good news with the crowd, telling them that despite government layoffs, he has not seen a decline in donations.

“Our fundraising is strong as ever, and we’re actually expanding,” he explained. “We’ve seen more friends, more family, and more community come out because of our mission, [which] is to increase access and equity in pediatric cancer.”

Photos: Judith Fogel/The Zebra Press

Design Revival: Nature Meets Color in Home Interiors

BY CLAIRE SCHWAB, ASID, CLAIRE SCHWAB INTERIOR DESIGN, INC.

Upon my recent colorful adventure to the furniture market in High Point, NC, I returned feeling more inspired and excited about interior design than I have in a long time. My team and I hit the ground running on Day One, thinking we’d spot a few tasteful sofas and lamps, and maybe snag a free tote bag. We resurfaced three days later with bags of fabric swatches, photos, and catalogs – ready to revamp our studio and our presentations.

Color Me Surprised (and Saturated)

Let’s talk color. If you’re still decorating in neutrals, tonals, and safe quiet patterns, High Point wants to stage an interven-

tion. The dominant trend is saturated tones with a purpose. Painted furniture in rich, earthy and saturated tones offers a handcrafted feel that brings personality and warmth into the home. Think forest greens, sages, peacock and hydrangea blues, blush, rose quartz, burnt orange, deep plums, and enough mustard yellow to start a condiment war. These aren’t just accent colors anymore; they are showing up on wallpapers, sofa pillows, ottomans, rugs, and even

patterned lampshades. Consumers are done with plain and monochromatic. There’s a joy and energy in surrounding yourself with layers of color and print.

It’s a Texture Thing

At the same time, natural textures – think woven fibers, raw wood, cane, and stone – anchor spaces in a sense of organic calm. I saw chunky wood grains, raw edges on tables, rough chiseled sides of marble tops, and velvet upholstery that called out my name for a long weekend nap. It’s all about creating depth and visual interest while keeping the space livable and inviting. It’s like the forest walked into your family room and said, “Let’s get cozy.”

The Verdict

Pattern, paint, and paper are in, and I hope this trend of “Organic Sophisticate” is here to stay. It’s clear that furniture is no longer just furniture – it’s art, it’s therapy, it wants to relieve our stress, it’s personality with legs. Whether you’re redecorating your entire home, doing a refresh, or just replacing that one suspiciously wobbly end table, take heart: Color and pattern are back. We should embrace their triumphant return.

Claire Schwab, A.S.I.D., and her team have been adorning and freshening homes for the past 36 years. Claire Schwab Interior Design, Inc., 3163 Woodland Lane, Alexandria, VA 22309. 703-6159495; claireschwab.com; Insta: claireschwabinterior

Claire Schwab, ASID

The tones of the furniture here offer a handcrafted appeal.

All photos: Claire Schwab Flowers on the bedside table are a comforting touch.

How Micro-Markets Within Alexandria Are Shaping Buyer Behavior

BY CARLY SEWARD, THE SEWARD GROUP OF TTR SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

The City of Alexandria spans just over 15 square miles. But when it comes to real estate, no two blocks are quite the same. Our city is made up of “micro-markets”: distinct neighborhoods with unique quirks, real estate trends, and buyer expectations. National headlines might try to paint the real estate market with a broad brush, but Alexandria is a nuanced picture.

Old Town: Timeless, and Time Is Of The Essence

Old Town continues to be one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Northern Virginia. Its historic beauty, restaurant scene, boutique shops, waterfront access, and proximity to DC make it perennially popular.

We’re seeing growing demand for Goldilocks-sized row homes that offer just enough space, charm, and modern convenience without the upkeep of a larger historic property. Buyers are especially drawn to updated row homes that blend period details with contemporary features like energy-efficient systems and renovated kitchens. Homes that strike this balance are moving quickly, often with multiple offers. Low inventory has continued to keep competition strong in this beloved micro-market.

Del Ray: Where “Main Street” Still Exists

ing accurately for your specific neighborhood (not just based on citywide comps) is key.

In Alexandria, real estate is never one-size-fitsall. It’s a mosaic of neighborhoods, each with its own vibe, which is one of the many reasons we love it here. Whether you’re drawn to the history of Old Town, the community spirit of Del Ray, or the quiet charm of Rosemont and Beverly Hills, it’s clear that location still reigns supreme, even within the same city limits. Have a question about buying or selling in one of Alexandria’s micro markets? I’d love to hear from you—and may even feature your question in a future column.

Del Ray’s sense of community remains its biggest draw. The tree-lined streets, independent businesses, and walkability to “Main Street” Mount Vernon Avenue continue to attract buyers who want more than just a home- they want to be part of a tight-knit community.

those who have already fallen in love with the area’s vibrant energy and access to the newly available Potomac Yard Metro station.

Del Ray is known for its eclectic, charming architecture- most homes were built between the 1920s and 1940s. In Del Ray, you’ll find a mix of architecture styles, including American Foursquare (think the classic front porch), craftsman bungalows, colonial style duplexes, and new builds that still honor the vibe of the neighborhood. No two homes are exactly alike, but everything still fits. Inventory here is tight, particularly for detached homes under $1.2 million. Buyers are acting quickly and often making aggressive offers with limited contingencies. We’re also seeing renters transition into first-time buyers, especially

Rosemont: Historic Charm, Steps From The Mix

Want to be close to the mix but not in it? Rosemont is just steps from Del Ray, a quiet gem with outsized appeal. Its historic homes and walkability to two Metro stops make it ideal for buyers who want a bit of everything.

Beverly Hills: Suburban Vibes, Still Close To It All

Beverly Hills, a little farther north, continues to see major demand from buyers looking for space to grow. This neighborhood may not get the same press. But with its larger lots and classic homes, it offers a peace-

ful retreat while still being minutes from Old Town, Del Ray, and major commuter routes.

What It Means for You

Whether you’re buying or selling, it’s critical to understand the micro-market. Hyper-local strategy is key- from marketing and staging to offer negotiation. And if you’re selling, pric-

The Seward Group offers full-spectrum concierge real estate service at all price points. Email us at SewardGroup@TTRSIR. com, visit our website at www.seward-group.com, or call us at (703) 298-0562. The Seward Group would be honored to help you, a family member, or friend with any of your real estate needs.

Photo: TTR Sotheby’s International Realty

The townhouse at 227 S. Pitt St. is on the market for $2,148,987. It features four bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms.

Photo: The Seward Group/TTR Sotheby’s International Realty

Left to right: Laura Catron, Elaine McCall, Lyssa Seward, Carly Seward. Seated: Anita Edwards and Melody Abella

EXTRAORDINARY PROPERTY

Historic Meets High Style: $6.2M Landmark Property Lists in Old Town Alexandria

109 DUKE STREET ISA MASTERFUL BLEND OF 19TH-CENTURY CHARACTERAND BOLD,LUXURIOUS MODERN DESIGN

BY MARY WADLAND

A rare and remarkable piece of Alexandria’s architectural and cultural history has just hit the market. Price reduced to $6.2 million, the one-of-a-kind estate at 109 Duke Street is a masterful blend of 19th-century character and bold, luxurious modern design, perfectly positioned just one block from the Old Town waterfront.

Built in 1800 on land once owned by tavernkeeper Richard Arell, a personal friend of George Washington, the home began its life as a handcrafted trunk-making workshop for Ephraim Mills. Later, it was owned by Allen Voorhees, a world-renowned transportation planner credited with designing urban transit systems and pioneering predictive traffic models.

Today, this historic treasure has been reimagined into a show-stopping double-lot estate offering over 5,200 square feet of artfully curated living space, including:

• 5 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms

• 5 fireplaces

• 2 parking spaces

• Approved plans for a separate guest house with a studio, 1.5 baths, and a two-car garage

The interior is a feast for the senses with standout design elements such as:

• Kings Jewelry Estate Jewelry Sidebar

• A hand-painted mural by artist Susan Harter

• Gucci designer wallpaper in the powder room

• Heated marble floors and original hardwood

• A chef’s kitchen with a quartz waterfall island, hidden Miele appliances, and a cozy lounge with a gas fireplace

• A top-level skylit retreat and a basement gym with a wet bar

Outside, the home stuns with a tropical backyard oasis rarely seen in Virginia: a year-round pool, fire features, putting green, and multiple private lounging areas—all just steps from King Street’s boutiques, dining, and riverfront charm.

Whether you’re a history buff, luxury home enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates

exceptional design, this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to own a piece of Alexandria’s past, thoughtfully designed for the future.

View the full listing and photo gallery at homesnap.com/VA/Al-

exandria/109-Duke-Street

For more information or to schedule a private showing, contact Compass listing agent Stefanie Hurley, 732-859-7949.

Photos: Housing Visuals

The rear of the home at 109 Duke Street is a hidden paradise.

Top of the line Miele appliances are hidden in this uber modern kitchen adjoining a family room with fireplace.

Timeless arched openings from room to room, original hardwood floors and fireplaces in the living and dining rooms, and a sprawling hand-painted Susan Harter mural connect the living spaces.

New Jewelry Boutique Opens in Old Town

BY LISA-HELENE LAWSON

Eliana Curated at 1003 King St. is open for business. The jewelry boutique held a ribbon-cutting ceremony last month. The store, owned by Anjelika O’Reilly, offers a unique blend of jewelry, fashion, art, and curated experiences.

Although O’Reilly is the face of the business, she quickly emphasizes that her venture is very much a “family affair.” Her parents, Alla and Jefry Weinberg, play a significant role in shaping the store’s vision and contribute to the craftsmanship of many of the jewelry designs. Her husband, Sean, is a huge supporter, and the name “Eliana” combines her two daughters’ names, Julianna and Eloise.

signed into “wearable art, statement earrings.” She has built a strong reputation and a devoted following from her days of pop-up sales to present-day brickand-mortar. She opened her flagship store in Arlington last month to much excitement. It is her firm belief that jewelry should not only

O’Reilly’s journey as a successful entrepreneur and designer began with her fascination with vintage buttons from the 1970s and 1980s. She curates the buttons at estate sales, antique stores, and vintage clothing resale shops. With 14-karat gold posts and backs, the buttons are rede-

WARRELL

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 47

height of the pandemic in December 2020.

As the eldest daughter of seven children, she recounts learning to break a horse and her 10th birthday gift from her father, whose work ethic she inherited. She met her husband, Andrew, in Melbourne, Australia, and together they have lived in many places, from Papua New Guinea to Singapore. Some challenges are ad-

be wearable but also meaningful to the owner. She encapsulates her vision with the store’s slogan, “Everyday, Elevated Jewelry.”

An only child, she immigrated from Eastern Europe to the United States with her parents. Growing up in Michigan, she displayed

dressed within these pages as well. Warrell was away from her four children while living in Singapore. She was also separated from her husband when he was one of the first in that country to be quarantined in a government facility after contracting Covid-19. “It was quite a surreal experience,” Warrell says, sharing how it taught her that courage isn’t only about stepping out of our comfort zone; it’s also about learning to manage our fear and keep anxiety in check.

“Let’s face it,” she said,

“often we suffer far more from our anxiety than we do from what we’re anxious about.” It’s why she feels it’s so important in this time of immense uncertainty and disruption to develop our capacity to cope with it. As she wrote, “In today’s fast-changing world, we need to cultivate our ability to find opportunity within change and expand our bandwidth to handle it better and take action despite our doubts.”

Warrell argues that it is through facing our deepest

fears that we can reclaim our greatest power and take more constructive actions.

Just prior to meeting at her historic home, Warrell addressed the chiefs of staff in Congress’s 2025 term. Since the book’s release in January, she has spoken at events across the country, including at Google, Bezos Earth Fund, and USC’s Marshall School of Business.

In an impressive foreword to the book, U.S. Army General (Ret.) Stanley McChrystal wrote: “Through relatable anecdotes and compelling

her entrepreneurial spirit from a young age. At just 10 years old, she started a babysitting club; by 14, she opened a driver education school; and at 16, she established a childcare service.

A pivotal moment in her youth occurred when she interned at the White House in Washington, DC. During her internship, she developed a passion for the fashion culture and the elegant style of freshwater pearls worn by the professional women she met. However, it would take an additional 18 years of working as a tech executive before she could launch her business, Eliana Curated. She admits to being “obsessed” with Old Town, its historical charm, walkability score, and small businesses.

Research from the American Immigration Council shows that new businesses are an economic engine for the US economy, “as they are the main driver for job growth.” They researched state by state and found that immigrants “account for 24 percent of entrepreneurs in Virginia.” O’Reilly asserts, “I am living the American Dream and so grateful.”

insights, Margie will elevate your perspective to see every experience, particularly the most challenging, as a catalyst for growth and the greater good.”

Speaking from his four decades-plus career in the military, McChrystal remarked that in this time of our history, “The Courage Gap” isn’t just a book, it’s a lifeline. Mission accomplished.

Photo: Talia Jones/Alexandria Economic Development Association

ABOVE: The O’Reilly family at an informal ribbon-cutting the day before the grand opening on May 17.

LEFT: Anjelika O’Reilly smiles with pride during the launch of her new store.

Photo: Lisa-Helene Lawson for The Zebra Press

An assortment of button earrings.

WORSHIP DIRECTORY

ANGLICAN

Christ of the King Church

1801 North Quaker Lane, Alexandria, VA 22302 (703) 535-6815

ONLINE:

Prayer Services: Sundays at 9 a.m. via Sermons page or Facebook Live

Daily Morning Prayer: Weekdays at 8 a.m. via Zoom

Weekly Study: Wednesdays at 7 p.m. via Zoom IN PERSON:

Worship in the sanctuary at Convergence Sunday at 9 and 11 a.m. Via sign up online starting Tuesday.

BAPTIST

Cherrydale Baptist Church

3910 Lorcom Lane, Arlington, VA 22207 (703) 525-8210

Sunday Worship available at 9:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. either online or register to attend in person. Online via Church Website or Facebook Live.

Check out the church’s online weekly schedule for more events and services.

Commonwealth Baptist Church

700 Commonwealth Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22301 (703) 548-8000

Services:

Sunday Bible Study for ALL ages at 9:45 a.m. Sunday Worship at 11 a.m. via Facebook Live or Conference Call at 571-446-0476

First Baptist Church of Alexandria 2932 King Street Alexandria, VA 22302 fbcalexandria.org

Sunday Worship: Identical Services at 9:30a & 11a Sunday Groups: 9:30a & 11a Sunday Livestream: 11a at fbcalexandria.org or on Facebook

You are welcome here!

CATHOLIC

Catholic Diocese of Arlington

200 North Glebe Road, Arlington, VA 22203 (703) 841-2500

Mass by Bishop Burbidge is uploaded to the church’s website.

Vatican News Live Strea.m. of Pope Francis’ Masses available daily via YoutTube

Go online to find Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception online mass, Sundays at noon.

If

EPISCOPAL/ANGLICAN

Christ Church

118 North Washington Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 (703) 549-1450

Sunday Services:

Sundays at 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., and 5:00 p.m.

livestream of 10:00 a.m. service available Wednesdays at Noon (chapel)

Morning Prayer weekdays at 7:30 a.m. via Facebook Live Compline on Wednesdays at 9:00 p.m.

More details can be found on church website

Meade Memorial Episcopal Church

322 N. Alfred Street, Alexandria, VA 22314

703-549-1334

Sunday Worship Service 10:00am in-person and zoom

Wednesday Bible Study and Prayer Fellowship - 7:00pm via zoom

Zoom log-on contact admin@meadechurch.org (Monday thru Friday 10:00 am – 1:30pm)

This historic and predominantly African-American Episcopal Church has been serving Alexandria and surrounding communities for over 150+ years.

St. Martin de Porres Episcopal Church

6744 S. Kings Hwy, Alexandria, VA 22306 703-765-3949

Join us for Lenten Services, Holy Week and Easter.

Sunday Worship Services:

8 am in-person without music at Olivet Chapel 6107 Franconia Rd, Alex VA 22310

10 am in-person and zoom with music at St. Mark’s Campus 6744 S. Kings Hwy, Alex VA 22306

More information can be found: Website, Facebook, and YouTube.

St. Pauls Episcopal Church

228 South Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 (703) 549-3312

Sunday Services: Sundays at 8:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., and 5:00 p.m. Live stream of 11:00 a.m. service available at www.stpaulsalexandria.com

Ministry of the Word with Sermon, watch at your leisure: Can be found online on Church’s Website

An Order for Compline: 7 p.m. every Wednesday live via Facebook

Virtual Prayer: Faith@Home available daily on church’s Facebook page

Sunday Worship: Videos posted on church’s Facebook page, YouTube, and website

Immanuel Church-on-the-Hill

3606 Seminary Road, Alexandria, VA 22304 (703) 370-6555

Sunday Worship Schedule

8:00 am | Eucharist, Zabriskie Chapel

10:30 am | Eucharist with music, at Immanuel Chapel, Livestreamed 1:00 PM | Outdoor Eucharist, behind Zabriskie Chapel Weekday Worship Schedule

Tuesday 10:00 am | Morning Prayer, at Zabriskie Chapel

Wednesday, 6:30 pm | Holy Eucharist Rite II, at Zabriskie Chapel

Friday 8:30 Pm | Compline on Zoom

INTERDENOMINATIONAL

National Community Church

205 F Street NE, Washington D.C., 20002 (T) 202-544-0414 (F) 202-417-3980

Services: Saturdays: 8 p.m.

Sundays: 9 a.m., 11 a.m. online

Facebook Worship Watch Parties: Sunday at 10 a.m. hosted by NCC Ballston Sunday at 11 a.m. hosted by NCC Cap Hill

JEWISH

Beth El Hebrew Synagogue

3830 Seminary Road, Alexandria, VA 22304 (703) 370-9400

Shabbat Services: Fridays at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday at 10:30 a.m. via Facebook Live Prayer Book can be found online

Shabbat Social Hour: Friday at 7 p.m. via Zoom

Table Talk: Friday at 8:30 p.m. via Zoom

Torah Study: Saturday at 9 a.m.

Visit the synagogue’s website for a detailed list of more special events coming up.

Agudas Achim Synagogue

2908 Valley Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 (703) 998-6460

To attend virtual services, please register online. Community Ma’ariv & Havdalah Service:    Saturdays 8:30 p.m.

Daily Minyan via Zoom: Morning Minyan (Shacharit), Weekdays at 7:30 a.m.

Evening Minyan (Ma’ariv), Sundays – Thursdays at 7:30 p.m.

Shabbat via Zoom:

Kabbalat Shabbat, Friday at 6:00 p.m.

Shabbat Morning, Saturday at 9:30 a.m.

Havdallah, Please refer to the online Synagogue office for weekly worship times

LUTHERAN

Immanuel Lutheran Church

1801 Russell Road, Alexandria, VA 22301 (703) 549-0155

Online: Divine Service: Sundays at 10 a.m. via Facebook Live

Access Sermon podcasts online.

Weekly prayer guide available online

In-Person: Check church website for frequent updates for in-person service, as well as sign up sheets.

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

JUNE ANSWERS

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church

100 West Luray Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22301 (703) 548-8608

Sunday Worship: 9:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.

Morning Prayer: Weekdays at 9 a.m. via Zoom

METHODIST

Alleyne A.M.E. Zion Church

1419 King Street Alexandria, VA 22314 (703) 548-3888

Worship Service: Sundays at 11 a.m. via Conference Call Line at 571-446-0476 or Facebook Live

Beverley Hills Community United Methodist Church

3512 Old Dominion Boulevard, Alexandria, VA 22305 (703) 836-2406

Sunday worship services are posted on church website every week. Sunday Worship 10:00 am Music playlists made by the church are available on Apple Music and Spotify. A short Lenten Devotional is available on website.

Del Ray United Methodist Church

100 East Windsor Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22301 (703) 549-2088

Sunday Worship via Facebook Live: Children’s Worship at 9:30 a.m.

Traditional Worship at 10:30 a.m.

Online Worship at 11:30 a.m.

Fairlington United Methodist Church

3900 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22302 (703) 671-8557

fairlingtonumc.org

Sunday Morning Worship 11 AM in Sanctuary & Online

Trinity United Methodist Church

2911 Cameron Mills Road, Alexandria, VA 22302 (703) 549-5500

Sunday Worship: 11 a.m. in person or via Zoom (contact the church office to get information on how to join Zoom call)) Visit the church’s Youtube to watch past sermons and and worship services.

Washington Street United Methodist Church

109 South Washington Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 (703) 836-4324

Sunday Service at 10 a.m. can be found online

PRESBYTERIAN

Alexandria Presbyterian Church (PCA)

1300 W Braddock Rd Alexandria, VA 22302 (703) 683-3348

alexandriapres.org

Sunday Worship Services at 9am and 11am with nursery available, or online via our website

Sunday Evening Ministries for adults, youth, and children from 5-7pm

Westminster Presbyterian Church

2701 Cameron Mills Road, Alexandria VA wpc-alex.org

Join us for Sunday worship:

Memorial Day-Labor Day

10:00 AM In-Person & Online at wpc-alex.org/worship

September-May

8:30 AM In-Person

11:00 AM In-Person & Online at wpc-alex.org/worship

Old Presbyterian Meeting House

323 S. Fairfax Street Alexandria, VA 22314

703-549-6670

Sunday worship at 8:30 and 11:00 AM, in person and online at opmh.org

Childcare available All Are Welcome!

ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN

All Saints of America Orthodox Christian Church

5903 Mt. Eagle Drive #115, Alexandria, VA 22303 (703) 417-9665

Church has in-person services, however, attendance is limited, and sign up/schedule for services can be found on the church’s online website. Updated frequently.

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST

Mount Vernon Unitarian Church

1909 Windmill Lane, Alexandria, VA 22307

703-765-5959 - info@mvuc.org

Work for justice. Care for the earth. Build the common good.

Worship with us Sundays at 10:00am in person or on YouTube.

See mvuc.org for news about upcoming services and events!

Children’s House Montessori School

Opens in Alexandria

HEAD OF SCHOOL LOOKS FORWARDTO CREATINGAN ENVIRONMENT FOR‘INDEPENDENT,CONFIDENT,AND JOYFUL LEARNERS’

BY JANE COLLINS

Families, educators, and city officials gathered on Saturday, May 17, to celebrate the official ribbon cutting of the new Alexandria campus of Children’s House Montessori School (CHMS). The expansion marks a significant milestone for the school, which has served families in Northern Virginia since its founding in 1999.

The Alexandria campus, located in the heart of the Del Ray neighborhood, features five classrooms across two cozy, connected buildings. A nature-focused, fenced-in playground bridges the space, offering children a serene environment to explore and play. With a dozen dedicated parking spots and classrooms designed for children aged 18 months to 6 years, CHMS brings its hallmark Montessori education to a new community of learners.

“We’re so excited to welcome everyone to Children’s House Montessori School for our official grand opening,” said Jad Touma, Head of School. “We are thrilled to be part of this amazing Del Ray community.”

The celebration kicked off with remarks from Gayle Reuter, board member of the Del Ray Business Association, who praised the joyful atmosphere and the

“happy, beautiful kids” the school will nurture.

Mayor Alyia Gaskins also

spoke, highlighting the importance of early childhood education in a community

context. As a mother of two young children, she shared her personal appreciation

for programs like CHMS, calling it a “nurturing and caring program” that helps young children build a love of learning, develop relationships, and learn how to give back to their communities.

Touma reflected on the two-year journey to bring the Alexandria campus to life, thanking staff, parents, and children for their commitment. He expressed gratitude to his mother, Denise Touma – affectionately known as “Miss Denise” –who founded CHMS in Arlington over two decades ago. The original location recently enrolled its 1,000th student.

His mother, Touma said, set the example to “always guide children with their best interest in mind.” He added that CHMS students will be “independent, confident, and joyful learners.”

CHMS currently employs five teachers and is “always looking for more,” Touma added, signaling the school’s continued growth and commitment to high-quality Montessori instruction.

Following the ribbon-cutting, attendees enjoyed face painting, children’s activities, refreshments, and guided tours of the new facility.

Photos: Jane Collins/The Zebra Press

Mayor Gaskins (center, dark blazer), Head of School Jad Touma (to Gaskins’ left), and other city leaders cut the ribbon to officially open the Children’s House Montessori School.

A young boy admires his new rainbow, painted by artist Jasmine Ewings (left).

Kids enjoy the bubble machine in the CHMS playground.

Angie Avila

University of Virginia

Sydney Graham North Carolina Central University

Oscar Cruz Portillo

United States

Marine Corps

Erika Vidal

University of Virginia Seamus White

William & Mary

The Alexandria City High School Class of 2025 has diverse postsecondary plans. We wish them luck in their future endeavors!

As of May 28, Alexandria City High School graduates are heading off to the following colleges and military institutions: American University, Amsterdam University College, Arizona State University-Tempe, Augusta University, Bard College, Barnard College, Belmont University, Blue Ridge Community and Technical College, Boston University, Bowie State University, Bridgewater College, Brigham Young University, Brown University, Cal Poly, Capital University, Carleton College, Case Western Reserve University, Christopher Newport University, Clark Atlanta University, Clark University, Clemson University, Colgate University, College of Charleston, College of the Atlantic, Colorado School of Mines, Colorado State University-Fort Collins, Columbia University in the City of New York, Dartmouth College, Duquesne University, Eastern Mennonite University, Eckerd College, ECPI University - Culinary Institute of Virginia - Newport News, Elon University, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical UniversityPrescott, Emerson College, Empire Beauty School - Springfield, Fordham University, Frostburg State University, Full Sail University, George Mason University, Georgia State University, Gettysburg College, Hampton University, Harvard University, Hawaii Pacific University, High Point University, Hobart William Smith Colleges, Hollins University, Illinois Institute of Technology, Indiana University-Bloomington, Ithaca College, James Madison University, Kenyon College, King University, Lafayette College, Lehigh University, Liberty University Online, Lincoln University, Livingstone College, Loyola University Chicago, Loyola University Maryland, Macomb Community College, Mary Baldwin University, Maryland Institute College of Art, Marymount University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Miami University-Oxford, Middlebury College, New York University, Norfolk State University, North Carolina A & T State University, North Carolina Central University, Northeastern University, Northern Virginia Community College, Norwich University, Old Dominion University, Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Main Campus, Purdue University-Main Campus, Queen's University Belfast, Radford University, Richard Bland College, Roanoke College, Rutgers University-New Brunswick, Saint Joseph's University, Sanford Medical Center, Savannah College of Art and Design, Spelman College, St. Mary's College of Maryland, Stanford University, State University of New York (SUNY), Syracuse University, Temple University, Texas A & M University-College Station, Texas Christian University, The George Washington University, The New School, The Oberlin Conservatory of Music, The University of Alabama, The University of Tampa, Tri-Community Adult Education, Trinity Washington University, Tufts University, Tulane University of Louisiana, United States Coast Guard Academy, United States Merchant Marine Academy, University of Arizona, University of Delaware, University of Edinburgh, University of Houston, University of Kentucky, University of Lynchburg, University of Mary Washington, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus, University of Richmond, University of Rochester, University of San Diego, University of South Carolina-Columbia, University of Southern California, University of St Andrews, University of St Francis, University of the District of Columbia, University of Vermont, University of Virginia-Main Campus, University of Virginia's College at Wise, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Ursinus College, Valley Forge Military College, Vanderbilt University, Virginia Commonwealth University, Virginia Military Institute, Virginia State University, Virginia Tech, Virginia Wesleyan University, Washington State University, Wellesley College, Wesleyan University, West Virginia University, Wilkes University, William & Mary, Winston-Salem State University, Woodrow Wilson Rehabilitation Center, Worcester Polytechnic Institute and York College of Pennsylvania.

Record-Breaking $700K in Scholarships Awarded to Alexandria City High School Seniors

SCHOLARSHIP FUND OFALEXANDRIA MARKS 40YEARS OF CHANGING LIVESWITH LARGEST FIRST-YEARAWARDS EVER

The Scholarship Fund of Alexandria (SFA) awarded nearly $700,000 in postsecondary scholarships to 215 seniors from Alexandria City High School’s Class of 2025—the largest first-year total in the nonprofit’s nearly 40-year history. Most of these students will continue to receive support for up to four years, bringing the total scholarship value to $2.5 million.

Of this year’s recipients, nearly 70% will be the first in their families to attend college in the U.S., and 98.7% qualified for needbased scholarships, further underscoring the impact of this support.

The SFA’s 2025 Awards Ceremony brought students and community donors together on stage for a heartfelt celebration. Among the scholarships presented were the Scholarship Fund of Alexandria’s 2025 Award and the inaugural 40th Anniversary Scholarship—a newly permanent award recently increased from $3,000 to $5,000 per year over four years.

“These scholarships are not funded by a sole individual or group but by general donations to the SFA,” said SFA Board Chair Kevin Jahns. “If you’ve attended an SFA event, bought a car raffle ticket, honored a teacher, or donated through payroll deductions as ACPS faculty or staff—you helped make this happen.”

SFA Executive Director Jasmine Milone reflected on the ceremony’s impact:

“This event is very inspiring and uplifting. There are so many incredibly bright and hardworking students at Alexandria City High School. It’s a privilege to see them launch, thrive, and succeed. Our community is generous and compassionate—they believe scholarships change lives, not just for the recipient, but for

their entire family.”

Essey T., recipient of the Alexander Duncan Scholarship, spoke on behalf of the Class of 2025. Heading to Tufts University to study chemical engineering, he shared heartfelt reflections:

“Knowing that my siblings are watching pushes me to be better... I want to teach them to dream big, bigger, and bigger. So that maybe they’ll believe in their own dreams and pass that belief on to someone else one day.”

Founded in 1986, the

SFA has awarded over $20 million in scholarships to more than 5,900 students from Alexandria City Public Schools, helping turn college dreams into reality.

Photos: SFA

215 students of the Alexandria City High School Class of 2025 received $700,000 from the Scholarship Fund of Alexandria.

Taylor Frazier (center), Class of 2024 recipient and current UVA student, already paying it forward by volunteering at the SFA’s awards ceremony.

Alexandria PTA Council President, Catie Brownback, presenting their scholarship to Karen A.

Mary Wadland and recipient of the Alexandria Future Legend Scholarship, Ahmad J.

Rhea Butler, ACHS Dean and former AVID teacher with SFA recipients

LEVEL UP

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 48

or an enthralling murder mystery.

“Our mission is to provide story-driven, immersive experiences for audiences,” says Ethan Lolley, SONOVA’s conductor and Artistic Director. “When people walk into the door, they feel like they’re a part of a journey or a land or a mission—they’re involved in the action of the concert.”

Level Up took the audience on a “walk down memory lane” of video game history starting from the very beginning of gaming. Orchestral music from Pac-Man, one of the first video games, came first, followed by The Legend of Zelda, Super Mario Brothers and Sonic. Halo and Pokémon were big hits, especially the classic song “Gotta Catch ‘Em All!” It featured a surprise solo by conductor Lolley. He rounded out the concert with arrangements of the themes of God of War and Baldur’s Gate, demonstrating the evolution of gaming.

Accompanying the gaming soundtracks was SONOVA’s very own video game, projected onto a giant screen above the stage. The game’s protagonist, nicknamed “Maestro Lolley,” went around the levels adorably stomping on turtles or killing Pac-Man ghosts, representing the various games. In each level he asked the audience (via Kahoot) what he should do, based on their knowledge of the games.

POETRY

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 46

as an attorney and Chief Privacy Officer for a Fortune 500 company in addition to his work for the federal government. An adjunct professor at the George Washington University Law School, he is a member of the Society of Midland Authors. He lives in the DC area.

Here are some interesting facts Kropf shared during our interview:

There was competition as well: The Kahoot game was wildly competitive, with the winner crowned the King of Video Games at the end of the concert. Meanwhile, other gamers could seek eternal glory during intermission in a Mario Kart tournament on the Big Screen. And in the lobby, audience members could play Pac Man, Mario World and other games on archaic TVs and arcade machines that brought them back to the 1980s.

“The audience loved the interactive elements of our concert, which makes me know we’re doing something right,” Lolley says.

During the concert, SONOVA Executive Director Serena Sela emphasized not to discredit video games in art. Game designers have a pleth-

ora of things to design, mediums of expression, and ways to get creative, from sounds and music to User Interface to the character design. According to Sela, “in the 21st century, the forms of art and appreciating it are rapidly expanding—and it has become apparent video games are a growing medium.”

Raised in small town Alabama, Lolley fell in love with orchestra during college and immediately knew that was his calling. Since he became SONOVA’s Artistic Director two years ago, he has led the charge to make the orchestra more fun, immersive and inviting.

“I can’t tell you how many concerts I’ve been to that were amazing, orchestras that played wonderful music, and I still felt my attention span going away,” he says. “We want the audience to be so engaged they don’t have an opportunity to doze off.”

The orchestra’s next season looks to be yet more fun than the last. SONOVA will kick off in October with “Come on Down!”: A live game show-concert where they will invite audience members like you and me to answer questions, score points and win prizes, just like in a real game show. December will see a concert focused on vinyl records, playing every genre of music ever put on vinyl from country to rock to clas-

sical. SONOVA also hopes to partner with dance groups to recreate music videos onstage and “bring the albums to life.”

Next spring, SONOVA will put on a concert focused on myths and legends—think of the Loch Ness Monster, the Leprechaun and Bigfoot. Finally, they will end the season with an art-themed concert where they will play songs inspired by the paintings and sculptures of local artists. After each song, the associated piece of art will be auctioned off to the highest bigger – a community event not to be missed.

By putting on such unconventional performances, SONOVA has staked its place as an innovative, cutting-edge orchestra that brings in people who don’t usually come to orchestral concerts, to its concerts.

“Orchestra music is not for everyone,” Lolley admits. “But we’re trying to make it for everyone.”

1) At one time, he collected vintage travel guides, but stopped because he was running out of space.

2) He collected vintage crayons and related supplies manufactured from the American Crayon Company.

3) He lived in the central Asian country of Turkmenistan for two years.

“A Midwestern Heart” gets five solid Zebra stripes.

The poetry included in this review is reprinted with permission of the author.

Flowers for Any Occasion

Courtesy image

Do You Have Two Hours a Month?

If you can spare two hours each month to drive an older neighbor to an appointment, we welcome your participation!

www.athomeinalexandria.org

aha@athomeinalexandria.org

703.231.0824

Providing practical, social and emotional support to our Alexandria neighbors ages 55+

DO YOU HAVE YOUR CARD?

If you are a senior (over 60) that lives or works in Alexandria, you qualify for a card. And if you are a business and want to offer special deals to seniors, you are eligible to participate. If you want your business added or to get a card, please contact Senior Services at 703-836-4414, ext. 110 or email development@seniorservicesalex.org.

SENIOR LIVING

Register Now for Senior Law Day 2025

BY: MARYANNE BEATTY SENIOR SERVICES OF ALEXANDRIA

It is not too soon to start planning for getting older and making decisions about how you will age. Will you stay in your home or move? Do you have your essential documents in place, including a will and power of attorney? Are your finances in order to cover the cost of aging? It is a lot to think about and can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.

Senior Law Day, an annu al event sponsored by Se nior Services of Alexandria and the Alexandria Bar As sociation, will provide com mon sense information and resources that can make de cision-making on how you plan to age a little easier.

This year’s program in cludes estate planners, fi nancial experts, and senior resource specialists with information on the cost of healthcare and hous ing; and knowing what le gal documents should be in place. There will also be a session on the challenge of caregiving and what re sources are available for Veterans.

The morning is structured into three panels: Strategies for Caregiving with Dignity and Support; Navigating Fi

THE COST OF AGING: MENTAL, PHYSICAL, FINANCIAL AND LEGAL PERSPECTIVES.

WHEN: SATURDAY, JUNE 7, 2025

TIME: 8:30 AM – 12:00

REGISTRATION BEGINS AT 8:30 AM AND THE

WILL START AT 9:00 AM.

WHERE: FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, 2932 KING STREET, ALEXANDRIA

Photo:

Alexandria Senior Village Supports Members Living Independently at Home

BY PETER GREENBAUM

For many people 55 or older, aging in place has special significance. Independence, familiarity, and comfort are important. However, they can also present challenges. Safety, quality of life, and loneliness are realities.

One of the great things about living in a community like Alexandria is the level of support and range of services available to help make aging in place possible.

At Home in Alexandria (AHA) is a senior village that assists older Alexandrians who want to live in their homes. AHA is not a physical space but a philosophy in action, offering practical support. Equally important, AHA hosts social events to help alleviate the loneliness and isolation that can stifle older adults.

“We gather at events and small gatherings,” says Cele Garrett, AHA’s Executive Director. “We form friendships by helping people get out and connect with others. We get their groceries and join them at appointments. But helping them meet up

with friends is a big one. That component makes up about 83% of our requests.”

The first senior village was established in Boston more than 20 years ago. It began as a group of residents who wanted to help their older neigh-

bors age in place. The group provided rides to appointments, helped move heavy boxes, changed light bulbs, and assisted with other chores.

This senior village model gained traction. The media became interested in the story. People around the

country read about what was happening in Boston, and it wasn’t long before other cities and towns created their villages. Today, there are nearly 300 senior villages in the U.S. AHA opened their doors in April 2011.

Mount Vernon at Home Hosts Fundraiser

BY MICHELE CALHOUN, PRESIDENT OF MVAH BOARD OF DIRECTORS

On May 15, Mount Vernon at Home, a senior village in the Mt. Vernon area, held its annual “Celebrate” garden party. The fundraiser took place at Mt. Vernon Country Club with over 80 friends, supporters and MVAH members. Everyone gathered for an afternoon of friendship, food and fun while raising funds to continue the important work of supporting older adults as they age in their homes.

Some of the services offered include transportation to and from doctor’s appointments; local outings, including lunch and a movie; walking groups; and a book club. We thank all the local business who sponsored this year’s event. To learn more about MVAH and how to volunteer or become a member, visit mountvernonathome.org. ABOVE: Attendees enjoying the afternoon

Photos: Lucelle O’Flaherty/The Zebra Press ABOVE: The Seward Group was a Gold Sponsor of the fundraiser.

LEFT: Paul Krizek, Virginia State Delegate; MVAH Celebrate Chair Maribeth Bersani; and Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Member Dan Storck

Photo courtesy AHA

Cele Garrett (far left) with Judith Jones, Ernie Lehman, Richard Moose, and AHA Board chair Barbara Rosenfeld.

Photo: AHA AHA members gather regularly at Happy Hour events to meet new people and socialize.

Alexandria Aces Ready for 2025 Season Opener June 4

BY AARON TALLENT

On June 4, the Alexandria Aces will play the first game of the 2025 Season at Frank Mann Field. While Alexandrians have Major League Baseball 10 miles away with the Washington Nationals and minor league ball less than an hour away in a few cities, collegiate summer baseball offers its own unique experience even for the casual fan.

“This is a way where you can watch a college baseball game and literally feel like you’re touching the players especially at Frank Mann here in Alexandria with so much history at that field. The batter’s box is literally ten feet away and you can sit in the front row,” said Aces coach Chris Berset.

The Aces play in the Cal Rip ken Sr. Collegiate Baseball League (CRSCBL), which is made up of eight teams in the DMV with play ers who have attended at least one year of college and have at least one year of eligibility remaining. Once their college season ends, players continue to hone their skills in these summer leagues. Unlike college baseball, which uses aluminum bats, only wooden bats are allowed in collegiate summer baseball.

“Most of these guys have aspirations to play professional baseball,” said Berset. “Professional baseball goes until September so basically, the summer league is a way for them to continue playing to train them to play eight months of the year.”

He played college ball at the University of Michigan and spent seven seasons in the Cincinnati Reds farm system. He is currently the baseball coach at Bishop O’Connell High School in Arlington and heads Prime Time Baseball, a baseball academy and travel club in Alexandria. As coach of Aces, he has spent the spring putting the roster together.

“I’ve got kids from Western Michigan. I’ve got kids from Pitt. I’ve got kids from Ball State, Indiana. I’ve also got kids from California coming this year,” said Berset.

The Aces have been regular season CRSCBL champions for the past three years and were league champions in 2022. That’s pretty impressive when one considers the fact that players arrive in early June and play their first game a day or two later. The team is able to hit the ground running because of the efforts of the community. The Aces differ from major and minor league teams in the fact that they are a nonprofit 501(c)(3) and are supported in part through donations and volunteers that are led by former Alexandria City Council member and team president Frank Fannon.

“Alexandria is one of the best places to be involved with a collegiate summer league team because we have such a great community and so many giving people that help fund the team. The team is really funded through donations, ticket sales at the gate, and sponsorship,” said Fannon.

Another major way volunteers support the team is through host families. This year, the Aces who do not call Alexandria home will need a place to stay and will have one with host families like the Fannons. Host families provide players with a private room, bathroom and laundry room access, a place to park a car, and a family to cheer them on at ball games. They also in-

Photo Tess Wilhelm)/Alexandria Aces

ABOVE: The Aces are ready to play.

BELOW: Manager Chris Berset (right) with pitcher Jacob Hartlaub during the 2022 Season

Photo: Brian Cooney/The Zebra Press

ABOVE: Tim Nicholson, a standout on the 2023 team.

Zebra file photo

Photo: Tess Wilhelm/Alexandria Aces

The Aces are looking to repeat as regular season champions this year. But they want even more to win it all, like they did three years ago.

SUPPORTS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 71

According to Garrett, AHA doesn’t advertise for memberships. It advertises for volunteers. Garrett calculates that 98% of the work is performed by volunteers.

“We always need more volunteers,” says Garrett. “People will volunteer, sign up, and then their lives get busy. Maybe they have a health event themselves, or their job changes, and they move away. It’s an imperfect system, which is why we have ads for volunteers.”

Members pay an annual fee that entitles them to request services from AHA for one year. A full AHA membership costs $600.00 per person per year or $850.00 for a household of two.

There are plenty of services and activities for members and associate members. Volunteers provide transportation, light maintenance around the home, organizing, and short-term pet or lawn care.

Currently, more members are requesting friendly visitors. They want to have oneon-one conversations to relieve isolation and loneliness.

ACES

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 72

directly help determine the roster.

“We have some Ball State alumni that love to host the Ball State players,” said Fannon. “If anybody wants to be a host family and they request a kid from their school, we’ll be glad to try to pair them up.”

Some of the players that will be coming home for the summer include Bucknell pitcher AJ Murray and University of Pennsylvania infielder Michael Powell, both

They also enjoy small gatherings like movie groups, coffee, and happy hours. For those who may not get out very often, these get-togethers are important.

Monthly happy hours are held at various members’ homes or in a community room in a member’s condo building. The happy hours are popular and often draw 20 to 30 people. For the more active, AHA offers a cycling club, walking club, book clubs, monthly lunch and dinner get-togethers, and more.

This summer, AHA will try offering another service: friendly dog visits.

“We’ve learned that a lot of members are dog lovers, but they’re unable to own a dog of their own anymore. It’s an ice breaker.”

Garrett and her team of three part-timers are always concerned about the number of volunteers they bring into the fold. They can’t grow faster than their core volunteer group can accommodate. Sometimes they are simply spread too thin.

“Very rarely have I had to say to a member, we just can’t take you on right now because we don’t have enough volunteers. But that could happen. Just when I think we’re going

of whom played for Coach Berset at Bishop O’Connell. In addition, Coach Berset is excited about his incoming trio of catchers in Ernie Echevarria, Diego Pena, and DJ Scheumann.

“I think all three of these guys can be starting catchers at Division I colleges, so I think we’re going to be pretty strong there,” he said.

Both Berset and Fannon stressed how critical volunteers are to the success of the Aces. Detailed information on all the ways Alexandrians can support the team, including through being a host family.

“The volunteers are what

LAW DAY

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 70

nances for Older Adults and Essential Documents for Aging Well. Throughout the morning attendees can visit with local caregiving companies, local attorneys, and city organizations and departments that support older adults. Senior Law Day is

to have to put a hold on new volunteers, we’ll get an influx of new members and new volunteers.”

Volunteers are critical to the AHA’s mission. As membership increases, so does the need for volunteers. There are no special skills required, just a desire to help older people navigate the challenges they face.

“But funding is always an issue for a nonprofit like us. We don’t get city, state, or federal funding. We’re completely independent, so we have to make sure that we are sustaining ourselves and trying to keep the membership dues. We’ve raised them only once in the last 14 years.”

Kathy Fricke has been an AHA member since 2017. An Associate Member now, she was the former treasurer for the organization. She likes the various social events held and appreciates the services available.

“AHA allows you to meet new people and also assists you in living at home as you age,” she says. “There’s a great staff and it’s a wonderful way to open yourself up to new adventures.”

To learn more about AHA at 703-231-0824 or visit athomeinalexandria.org.

makes the Aces work and so if anybody in the community is interested in helping, we’re always looking for more people to join the board and help the team,” said Fannon.

Frank Mann Field, the former home of the minor league Alexandria Dukes, is located at 3700 Commonwealth Avenue. The first game of the season will be against the Silver Spring-Takoma Thunderbolts and is sponsored by The Zebra. All Aces home games will start at 6:30 PM and tickets are $7 for adults and $3 for children 12 and under.

TODD

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 36

ing for top culinary honors in one of Alexandria’s most beloved food festivals.

“This neighborhood has always had a special place in my heart,” Todd said. “To see how far it’s come — and to be part of an event that celebrates the community and its creativity — is truly an honor.”

Taste of Del Ray has be-

QUOTABLES

free and open to the public. Please register by emailing events @seniorservicesalex.org or call 703-8364414, ext. 110.

come a signature event for Alexandria food lovers, drawing crowds eager to sample innovative dishes and vote for their favorites. Attendees can expect everything from gourmet small bites to unique desserts, reflecting the diversity and talent of Del Ray’s culinary scene.

Tickets are available now at 2025tasteofdelray. eventbrite.com, and early purchase is recommended as the event typically sells out.

Giving birth is like taking your lower lip and forcing it over your head.

—Carol Burnett

The Benefits of Raised Garden Planters

BY RAY GREENSTREET

As inflation keeps increasing and prices keep go up, there has been an increased trend in folks installing raised garden planters in their very own backyards. These things are a great way to improve your own experience when gardening and to have some fresh veggies to supplement your meals at home.

Raised bed planters have several upsides and benefits when compared to traditional gardening.

First, they don’t have to be tilled. You simply add some fresh material on top every year and then plant. This not only allows you to better control the conditions of your soil, but there is an added benefit to not hand-tilling your soil. Hand-tilling is not the best for a healthy garden and will deplete the soil structure. Not tilling the soil will allow the organic components to build up and help improve the health of whatever you choose to grow.

Raised beds are also

better for dealing with Mother Nature’s seeming crusade against our gardens and precious plants. A raised bed is much better for keeping out harmful pests and invasive species.

Destructive animals like slugs, groundhogs, and even deer can find it harder to get into your garden with a well-designed raised planter. The plant-

ers also allow for better drainage, so when a storm decides to head your way, you can rest easy knowing the water will drain out of the bottom of your planter and your plants won’t drown along the way.

You will also find you have an easier time keeping weeds out of your soil. It is more difficult for them to invade and steal the nu-

trients from the plants you actually want to be watering and nurturing. There are also some huge benefits. In my opinion, raised planters look great. They are aesthetically pleasing, and since they are much easier to manage, they make for a cleaner and more put-together garden, which you and your neighbors will appreciate seeing

every day.

The fact that they are easier to take care of is a big bonus on its own. We all have lives, and while I enjoy spending time in my garden, the more streamlined and simpler the process, the better. My favorite thing about these raised beds is that they are so much easier on your back. I don’t know about you, but the constant bending over and standing up and down kills my back and steals some of the joy from me taking care of my garden. All in all, I will never garden without one of these raised planters again. It helps me grow fresh food for my family, get outside in the sunshine, and do it all while saving money on my groceries.

Gardening is supposed to be a fun hobby with the added benefit of maybe having some fresh food to eat or seeing some beautiful plants. So why make it harder than it needs to be? Try one of these raised planters. You won’t regret it. This trend is catching on for a reason.

Photo: iStock.com/Mkovalevskaya

A raised garden planter or bed (pictured) has has many benefits.

While the Wall is in town, photographs of service members listed on The Wall from Alexandria and nearby counties will be showcased, along with a second digital display honoring Vietnam veterans through the In Memory program.

“We are blessed to have the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in our backyard, but locals never get the opportunity to see representative examples of the 400,000 items left behind at The Wall. With the mobile Education Center, they will not only get to see these items but can spend time reflecting on the impact of the war and the Memorial in our backyard. Whether you’ve never been to The Wall or been dozens of times, this portion of the exhibit is immensely powerful,” said local hosting committee co-chair Cynthia Long.

The three-quarter-scale replica of The Wall stretches 375 feet long and reaches 7.5 feet at its highest point. As visitors approach the apex, they’ll experience the powerful effect of the wall rising above them— an intentional element of the original design in Washington, D.C.

Guests will also have the opportunity to make name rubbings of individual service members listed on The Wall. The exhibit will be set atop the grassy knoll overlooking the George Washington Masonic National Memorial, offering a striking view that connects two of the nation’s most iconic architectural landmarks.

Special events during the exhibit include an Agent Orange Awareness candlelight vigil on Thursday, June 12; the In Memory 2025 Induc-

tion Ceremony on Saturday, June 14, honoring 774 Vietnam veterans who returned home and later died; and the Father’s Day Rose Remembrance on Sunday, June 15, where visitors can sponsor roses to honor and remember fathers who served in Vietnam.

Normally, a community has six months to several years to accomplish the planning necessary to make this happen. To support the event, more than 200 volunteers will be necessary to help set up on

Thursday, June 12, and take down on Monday, June 16. In addition, since the exhibit will be open 24 hours each day, dozens of volunteers will be necessary to serve and answer questions from visitors.

For more information, including volunteer opportunities and event details, visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund website at www. vvmf.org/The-Wall-That-Heals-Alexandria

BOOK CLUB

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 56

Margo’s father, Jinx, a former professional wrestler and drug addict, summed up a running theme in the book: “When you’re lost in the deep, dark forest, the

thing to do isn’t to be scared of the trees. You have to find your way out again.” The group concluded that Margo was very much her father’s daughter.

The book club dined on praised crab cake dishes and cocktails. They joked that they should meet at Margo’s comfort food spot, Arby’s, and enjoy her favor-

ite cuisine: donuts.

Zebra Book Club meets monthly. The next meeting is Monday, June 30. The book pick is “The Wedding People” by Alison Espach, and the group will meet at Cheesetique in Del Ray.

If you want to join the group for fellowship and good reads, go to the Zebra Book Club on Facebook and

hit the JOIN button or email Zebrabookclub@gmail. com. You will receive an automated message listing the time, date, and location for the meeting along with the name and author of the June book pick. New members are always welcome at monthly meetings; we just ask you to please read the book before the meeting.

Photo: Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund

Visitors to The Wall That Heals often share deeply personal reflections about their experiences.

Photo: Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund

The 53-foot trailer that carries The Wall That Heals transforms into a mobile Education Center. The exterior of the trailer features a timeline of “The War and The Wall.”

Photo: Daniel Horowitz

The Wall That Heals, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall replica, will be on the grounds of the George Washington Masonic Memorial, June 12-15.

feminism.

King Street Cats is proud to be the only all-volunteer, cat-exclusive, no-kill rescue facility in Alexandria, Va. Because we are a free-roaming facility, you can come visit with the “cat-friendliest cats” in town. To meet a King Street Cat,

Why Won’t My Dog Come When Called?

TULI

(“wobbly cat” with CH, needs one-level home)

Male, Age 11 months. (special needs, totally managable!) Little purr machine LOVES to be picked up and snuggled; likes kitties too.

TRAININGTIPSTOTEACHA RELIABLE RECALL

BY SANDY MODELL

SIMBA

(a special, loving senior, willingly takes 1 pill per day) Female, Age 12 (lots of life to live!)

Loving beauty wants to be your “one and only” after losing her person.

Female, Age 3

Stunning, affectionate calico diva needs patient home where she alone can reign.

QUANDER

Quiet, sweet boy wants to relax in your home with no pets or children.

Do you want a dog who comes when called? Every time you call them? A reliable recall can be a lifesaver for a dog that has escaped from the house or is off its leash. It can also offer your dog more freedom in offleash, unfenced areas. Having the confidence that your dog will come back to you in any situation, regardless of distractions, is genuinely reassuring. At the same time, coming when called is one of the more challenging behaviors to teach our dogs.

Having

CAPUCHIN

(mild CH, very slightly “wobbly,” not a problem!) Female, Age 1 Sweet, plush, playful beauty wants a quiet kitty friend and loves treats.

WAFFLE & TUNA

(adopt these best friends together)

If you want a dog who responds the minute you call their name and then bounds to you when they hear their recall word, practice this list of games and exercises that will help set you and your dog up for success and build a reliable recall for the life of your dog:

These best buds adore attention and will bring you twice the joy.

DIESEL

Handsome boy just loves belly rubs and attention. Chill kitty pal might be OK.

KING STREET CATS

25 Dove Street • Alexandria, VA 22314 www.kingstreetcats.org

Name Game: Start by grabbing a few tasty treats, and when your dog isn’t looking at you, say your dog’s name in an upbeat tone. Mark the behavior of your dog turning its head to you with a clicker or verbal marker, such as “yes,” and give them a treat. We want to build value in your dog, orienting to you with immediacy, what we call a “whiplash” turn. Most importantly, only associate your dog’s name with good things. Otherwise, your dog will hesitate if they are unsure whether you are calling their name to come to you

or because they are doing something you don’t like. Also, when playing this game, call your dog’s name only once each time. We want them to respond when we say their name one time. If they don’t respond, use other sounds, such as a kissy noise, a whistle, “puppup,” or a clap, to get your dog to turn its head towards you. Next, say your dog’s name and their recall word, “come,” in a positive, upbeat tone, and mark and reward. Your dog does not have to do anything. It’s pure classical conditioning. They hear their name, the word comes, and good things happen. Again, we are building value in their name and the word “come.” Think of it as putting money in the bank.

The Power of Proximity:

Having a dog that chooses to stay close and be near you, regardless of distractions in the environment, is key. Drop a treat in front of your

dog and take a few steps away from them while they eat it. If your dog chooses to come to you, mark it with a clicker or verbal marker, such as “yes,” and place their reinforcement on the floor or ground in front of them. Then, take a few steps away. When they show up, mark it and place another treat down. Practice this throughout your house, and then take it outside. If your dog doesn’t come to you right away, make a kissy noise or tap your leg until they realize the value of being close to you.

Collar Grab: If your dog gets loose outside of your home, their response may be let’s play the “chase me” game. After all, dogs love a good chase. Unfortunately, this can put your dog’s safety in jeopardy. Instead, make your hands come toward them, and you grab

Photo: Joe Caoine/Unsplash

the confidence that your dog will come back to you in any situation, regardless of distractions, is genuinely reassuring.

CRAB SHACK

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 48

sicians performing in the afternoon, and professionals taking the stage into the evening.

The show will be hosted by soulful vocalist and instrumentalist Dante’ Pope, recently featured with the Grammy-winning Old Crow Medicine Show. He’ll be followed by two bands

TRAINING TIME

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 76

their collar; it’s a really fun and rewarding game.

Use a Long Line: Before working on recalls off-leash, add a 30- to 50-foot-long line to your training repertoire. This way, you can practice your recalls at different distances with different distractions. Never jerk or pull at the long line. If all else fails, walk your hands back to them on the long line, then go back to practicing these recall games in a less distracting environment. If your dog is having

that recorded at the Shack: Elijah Jamal Balbed & Fiesta Mojo (salsa jazz) and Burt the Dirt (country rock), both from Washington, D.C.

Several Del Ray businesses are helping make the event possible through sponsorships and donations. Food and drink will be available for purchase from Backyard Provisions, owned by Kilby’s childhood friend Jamie Branch.

difficulty, lower the distractions, raise the value of the reinforcers, give your dog a break, and try it again later. Always use high-value treats, such as chicken, cheese, hot dogs, and deli meat, when training your dog to come to you. They should get lots of praise, high-value rewards, fun, play, and plenty of practice. Before you know it, your dog will not only want to come to you, but they will also want to stick around.

Sandy Modell, CPDT-KA, is the Founder, Owner, and Head of Training of Wholistic Hound Academy, Alex-

(12 issues)

Visit thezebra.org/subscribe or send a check with your mailing address to The Zebra Press, 2800 Eisenhower Avenue, Suite 220, Alexandria, VA 22314.

SISSY

If you find your cat in a boxy predicament, send us a photo and we’ll publish it online and in our print edition. Send photos, and your contact information to info@thezebrapress.com with CAT IN A BOX in the subject line.

CAT IN A BOX

andria’s award-winning, premier canine training and learning center -- offering classes and private lessons in puppy training, adolescent and adult foundation and life skills, behavior modification, agility, nose work, dog sports, and fitness, babies/kids and dogs, and pre-pet planning and selection. Classes are starting soon! Visit www. wholistichound.com to enroll in our programs, like us on Facebook.com/wholistichound, and follow us on Instagram at Instagram. com/wholistichound.

Owner Michael Lucker lives in Alexandria.

Photo: Jack Kilby Collection Crab Shack Live in 2022.

JUNE 2

JUNE 5

JULY 3

AUGUST 7

AUGUST 17

SEPTEMBER 4

EVERY SATURDAY

SECOND SATURDAYS

Del Ray vs. Old Town Softball Game

First Thursday: Rep Your Team

First Thursday: Red, White, and Bloom

First Thursday: Surf’s Up!

Bands & Brews Bar Crawl

First Thursday: Antique Appraisals

Del Ray Farmers’ Market

Del Ray Vintage & Flea Market For more summer fun -- including pop-up markets, art shows, kids’ activities, outdoor movies, and more -follow @visitdelray or explore visitdelray.com

Expert maintenance and repair from a name Alexandria has counted on for generations.

DRIVEN WITH TRUST

FREE ESTIMATES

From fender-benders to full restorations— precise, honest, and hassle-free.

REPAIRED WITH CARE

EXTENDED HAPPY HOUR Mo-Tu | 4-9pm

From scratch-made pizzas to craft cocktails— gather, unwind, and taste the love.

FUELED BY FAMILY