Old Town Living

Alexandria Accepting Applications for PARK(ing) Day 2019

2019-08-16T14:53:00.000-04:00

The City of Alexandria is currently accepting permit applications for "parklets" — temporary parks located in parking spaces around Alexandria as part of PARK(ing) Day on September 20. This annual, worldwide event demonstrates the importance of preserving and creating public open space in urban areas.

Businesses, nonprofits, and other entities wishing to sponsor parklets must submit an application (including a parklet proposal that complies with City guidelines) and an application fee. The deadline to submit an application is August 30.

On PARK(ing) Day, members of the public will be encouraged to explore parklets around the City and learn more about the City agencies and private organizations sponsoring these pop-up spaces. The parklets are a fun, creative way to engage with City residents and visitors.

For more information about Alexandria’s PARK(ing) Day event, including the permit process for creating a parklet and applicable fees and guidelines, visit the City's PARK(ing) Day page. After the permit deadline, a map of parklet locations will be posted.

Alexandria, Virginia Named the Safest City in America

2019-01-25T08:44:00.002-05:00

Alexandria, Virginia has been named the safest city in the U.S., according to a recent study. Alexandria took the #1 spot on PennyGeek.com’s list of the 3 Safest Cities in America, which weighed violent crime rates.

PennyGeeks.com provides free information to help you save money on auto insurance. They publish small studies and blogs that provide tips to help you reduce your premiums, avoid issues when filing claims, and find the best rates for your particular needs.

Erie, CO and Round Rock, TX rounded out the list of the Safest Cities in America. Alexandria recently made the list of safest cities according to SmartAsset as well.

ACPS Cancels Weekend Activities Due to Snowstorm

2019-01-12T13:42:00.000-05:00

Due to the impending weekend snowstorm, Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) has canceled all ACPS events/activities after 5pm Saturday, Jan 12 through Sunday, Jan 13. This includes all athletics & field trips, and events at ACPS facilities.

For the status of Rec programs held at ACPS schools, see the City of Alexandria Parks and Rec Facebook Page or call 703-746-4343.

3,000 Dominion Energy Workers Restoring Power in Virginia

2018-03-03T11:29:00.000-05:00

Via @RayDomEnergy on Twitter

3,000 Dominion Energy Restoration Workers Continue to Make Repairs Amid Wind Storm

As high winds, gusting to nearly 70 mph, continue to impact Dominion Energy’s service area in Virginia, nearly 3,000 restoration workers are deployed across the state assessing damage and repairing equipment and downed power lines as conditions permit. In some areas, restoration work may be hampered by the winds, as they can put workers in bucket trucks in danger.

An additional 500 out-of-state restoration workers are expected to be on-site today bringing the total workforce to 3,500 personnel. They will work around the clock as quickly and safely as possible until power is restored to all customers.

Of the 621,000 customers that lost service, about 233,000 have been restored. As of 4:30 p.m. Friday more than 388,000 currently remain without power. Restoration times are not yet available because outages are still occurring from the high winds and crews must first respond to critical facilities, such as fire and police stations and hospitals.

Customers are advised that very high winds and rain can cause trees and branches to fall, which may bring down power lines. Beware of any lines that may have fallen or come into contact with trees, debris, or water. Stay at least 30’ feet away and make sure your family, pets, and neighbors also avoid the downed wire. Call Dominion Energy right away at 1-866-DOM-HELP (1-866-366-4357) to speak with an agent to report the downed wire.

If your power goes out, please report it at DominionEnergy.com or call us at 1-866-DOM-HELP. The fastest way to report or track an outage is online at DominonEnergy.com using your phone or other mobile device.

Customers relying on portable generators until service is restored should follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for installation and only operate them outdoors with adequate ventilation.

Reminder: Alexandria Birthday Celebration Tonight at Oronoco Bay Park (Video)

2013-07-13T07:41:00.000-04:00

The City of Alexandria will celebrate its 264th and the USA’s 237th birthday TONIGHT from 7 to 10 p.m. at Oronoco Bay Park, 100 Madison St., located at the Potomac River between Fairfax, Pendleton, and Madison Streets. Admission is free.

The celebration includes fun for the entire family, including musical entertainment, refreshments, and birthday cake. The featured performance of the evening is a concert by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra at 8:30 p.m., culminating with a Grand Fireworks Finale featuring Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” with cannon support by the United States Marine Corps Basic Training School beginning at 9:30 p.m. In the event of inclement weather, fireworks only will be rescheduled for Sunday, July 14 at 9:30 p.m.

Oronoco Bay Park has lawn seating, and participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets. Refreshments will be available for purchase, but everyone is welcome to pack a picnic dinner. No grilling allowed.

If you have NEVER been to the annual bithday celebration, here’s a look at the pretty awesome fireworks.

Volunteer Guides Wanted at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum

2012-04-07T07:43:00.000-04:00

Apply now for the Saturday, June 2nd Training

Gadsby's Tavern Museum is hosting a new volunteer training, Saturday, June 2 from 1 to 4 p.m for those interested in volunteering their time to give tours of this historic building. This three-hour class will cover all of the basics of giving tours of the museum. No experience is necessary, just a love of history!

Gadsby's Tavern Museum depends on volunteers to provide an educational and memorable .experience of the museum for the thousands of visitors who come for tours every year. Tour volunteers are asked to give a minimum of one tour shift, approximately three hours per month, for one year. Scheduling is flexible and based on the volunteer’s availability; weekend and weekday available. Volunteer benefits include free admission to more than 30 historic house museums in DC, a shop discount, free garage parking while on duty, and continuing education opportunities.

Pre-registration is required. Volunteers can complete an application online through www.gadsbystavern.org or email Michele.longo@alexandriava.gov.

In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Gadsby’s Tavern was the center of social and political life in Alexandria and the new Federal City of Washington. The tavern served as the premier gathering place for residents – including George Washington – and visitors to eat, drink, learn, and influence history..

Gadsby's Tavern Museum is located at 134 N. Royal Street in the heart of Old Town, Alexandria and is owned and operated by the City of Alexandria. For more information, please visit www.gadsbystavern.org.

Mega Millions Jackpot Now $540 Million

2012-03-30T10:14:00.000-04:00

What would you do with all that money?

Via WJLA:

With more than half a billion dollars at stake, lottery fever has gripped the D.C. area.

The Mega Millions jackpot is now at an estimated $540 million, the largest in lottery history.

Overall, Wednesday’s 's lottery sales in D.C. were up 500 percent from last Wednesday. And with the hope of winning more than half a billion dollars, people are buying big.

“I just want to be rich and retire and travel,” says one D.C. resident. “I think a lot of people are excited. There's really a lot of hype about 500 million so why not spend a dollar to win 500 million.”

At D.C.-based Living Social, more than a 100 co-workers are buying into a pool at $10 a pop.

“We want to win,” says Stephen Taglieri. “We want the money.”

Friday’s drawing is considered to be the largest ever for Mega Millions.

Did You See The Cherry Blossoms This Year? (Video)

2012-03-30T10:01:00.000-04:00

If you didn't, here's a great video of them in full bloom.

Sushi Naru Restaurant - Now Open In Carlyle

2012-03-10T10:42:00.002-05:00

Like Sushi? Carlyle's first sushi place, Sushi Naru, is now open on John Carlyle Street in the old Zikrayet space at the corner of Emerson Ave and John Carlyle Street. For more information on the Carlyle neighborhood of Alexandria, VA, visit www.carlylecommunity.us.

History Of Del Ray & Streetcars In Alexandria (Video)

2011-12-24T12:14:00.001-05:00

WETA's Neighborhood series took a look back at Del Ray, which is located in Alexandria, Virginia.

The series highlights the old Washington, Alexandria & Mt. Vernon Railroad streetcars are featured in this segment. This company later became part of the Alexandria, Barcroft & Washington Company (AB&W) which was one of four predecessor companies that were bought by the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) in 1973. The AB&W workers were represented by Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1131 which merged with ATU Local 689 in 1973.

Alexandria Firefighters Are Going Pink

2011-09-27T21:30:00.000-04:00

Throughout the month of October, you can support the Alexandria Breast Cancer Walk Fund by purchasing a pink Breast Cancer Awareness t-shirt from Alexandria Fire and Rescue.

All proceeds from the t-shirt sales will be donated to the Fund, and all Alexandria Fire Department employees will wear the shirts as part of their uniform every day in October.

All proceeds from the Walk support the Alexandria Breast Cancer Walk Fund, which has helped over 5,000 uninsured Alexandria women receive free mammograms and other diagnostic screenings since its inception in 1994. All information, including registration and location details, is available at www.alexcancerwalk.com or by calling 703.746.5030.

Shirt sizes range from Adult S-XXX; short-sleeve shirts sell for $15 and long-sleeve shirts sell for $20. Stop by Station 201 (317 Prince St) anytime to purchase your shirt.

Alexandria Historical Society

2011-08-14T13:56:00.000-04:00

The Alexandria Historical Society is a great way to get involved in your community. I encourage anyone who is interested in the rich history of Alexandria to join. Dues are $20 per year.

For more information, visit their website by clicking this link.

Can You Help Alexandria? Consider Volunteering

2011-08-14T13:47:00.000-04:00

Alexandria Board and Commission Vacancies

The Alexandria City Council is always seeking qualified applicants to fill vacancies on the City's boards, commissions, and committees. These bodies serve a valuable role in shaping city policy. I encourage anyone who is interested in serving the City and having your ideas implemented to please look at the openings and get involved.

For a complete list of vacancies, deadlines, and details visit this link.

Celebrate Bastille Day w/ Wine Dinner At Gadsby's Tavern

2011-07-10T22:05:00.000-04:00

Date(s): 07/14/2011 - 07/14/2011
Time: 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Location: Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: (703) 746-4242
Admission: $100 inclusive

True friends of equality, celebrate the era of French emancipation from the despotic power of crowned tyrants! Inspired by the dinner held at Mr. Wise's Tavern in 1793, celebrating "the destruction of that infamous engine of oppression, the Bastille," Gadsby's Tavern Museum invites you to a night of celebration with a historically inspired five-course dinner paired with fine French wines.

Don't miss the event of the summer for both history lovers and wine enthusiasts!

Sunday Open Thread - Alexandria Fireworks & Birthday Celebration (Video)

2011-07-10T21:45:00.003-04:00

How did you enjoy Alexandria's 262nd Birthday Celebration this past weekend on the waterfront?

Old Town Alexandria, Virginia - A Tourist's Review

2011-07-10T19:34:00.002-04:00

George Aquino from Grand Rapids, Michigan recently visited Old Town, Alexandria. Here's what George wrote about his and his family's experience in our city.

George writes:

While Washington, D.C., holds the seat as the epicenter of U.S. historical treasures, a few metro stops away is historic Old Town Alexandria, Va. This comely neighbor to the capital is equally rich in American historic lore. The Gadsby’s Tavern on Royal Street was a favorite drinking and resting spot for Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. A re-creation of George Washington’s townhouse sits on a slope on Cameron Street. Several 18th and 19th century tombstones dot the grounds of Christ Church, where Civil War General Robert E. Lee was a parishioner.

My family took advantage of an afternoon break from the competition and joined other families for an afternoon stroll along Old Town. The goal was simple: walk the 17 blocks from the train station to the waterfront. No predetermined agenda. Just wander and see what happens.

Read what happens next at this link.

Alexandria Remembers Betty Ford (Video)

2011-07-10T17:05:00.004-04:00

Derrick Ward at NBC Washington talks with former neighbors of Betty Ford in Alexandria as they reflect on the life of the former First Lady and her role in our community.

View more videos at: http://www.nbcwashington.com.

What Type Of American Accent Do You Have?

2011-07-10T16:36:00.000-04:00

Take this very interesting 17 question quiz to find out.

Free Movie On The Potomac Tonight! Megamind (Video)

2011-07-10T08:46:00.001-04:00

Building upon their wildly successful ‘Movies on the Potomac’ from last year, the National Harbor folks have 2 sets of ‘Movies On The Potomac’ in 2011. This year, Sunday nights at sunset is ‘Family Movies’ and Friday nights at sunset are ‘Date Night Movies.’

Lawn chairs or blankets are recommended. No coolers with food or alcoholic beverages will be permitted. Beverages and Kettle Korn will be for sale. Reminder, if you don’t feel like driving over to National Harbor, you can take a water taxi from the Alexandria waterfront (takes about 20 minutes) or van service from King Street Metro.

Tonight’s ‘Family Movie’ is Megamind starring the voices of Will Ferrell, Brad Pitt, and Tina Fey among an all-star cast. The supervillain Megamind finally conquers his nemesis, the hero Metro Man… but finds his life pointless without a hero to fight. The movie starts at approximately 8:35 p.m.

You can see the entire 2011 lineup of films over at National Harbor at this link.

Here is the trailer:

Horribles Bosses [Open Thread]

2011-07-10T08:09:00.002-04:00

The movie ‘Horrible Bosses‘ opens this weekend at the AMC Hoffman 22 theaters in Alexandria. Are you going to see it? Have you seen it? What have you ever wanted to do the horrible boss you’ve had in your career?

Leave your comments below…

Enjoy A Nats Game This Weekend W/ Overwood

2010-05-20T21:47:00.004-04:00

Time: 2 p.m. - after game is over
Location: Overwood - Nationals Ballpark
Phone: (703) 535-3340
Admission: $65.00 includes food, boat, ballgame!

The Overwood Restaurant is sponsoring a river trip to see the Washington Nationals this Saturday, May 22nd. The day will start with a send off party from 2:00 until 2:45 at Overwood with burgers, hot dogs and beverages (must be 21 to receive alcoholic drinks.) All will then walk one block down to the Alexandria Harbor where Potomac Riverboat Company will water taxi the group to just outside National's Park.

From there it's into the stadium and into the right field bleachers next to the Red Porch Bar to catch the scheduled 4:00 first pitch. The water taxi will return to Alexandria 15 minutes after the last pitch. In short you will get a send off party, round trip boat tickets and a ticket to see the Nationals beat the Orioles. $65.00 covers the cost of the entire event. Overwood has a limited number of tickets so place your order soon. Payment in full needs to made at the time of the order. Please stop by or call 703-535-3340 to get in on the fun.

Grape + Bean in Old Town - Expanding! (Video)

2010-05-20T01:14:00.001-04:00

If you have NEVER been to the Grape + Bean at 118 South Royal Street in Old Town Alexandria, shame on you. Grape + Bean is by far one of Old Town Alexandria's undiscovered treasures.

Grape + Bean is a retail Wine Shop (a tremendous wine selection), a Coffee beanery, and a Wine + Tasting Bar serving wines by the glass and a food menu (at dinner, lunch + brunch). They are in one of Alexandria's quaint, old buildings which enables them to offer a warm, intimate, and comfortable environment with exposed beams, and original brick and wood floors. They also offer classes in wine basics among other offerings.

They do not accept reservations so if you're going, be prepared to wait for a table. While you're waiting for a table, sit at the wine bar and enjoy the best wine and cheese in town.

Better yet, I'm going to let David Gwathmey and Sheera Rosenfeld, the husband and wife co-owners of the Grape + Bean, to tell you the story of the business. Be sure to check it out!

Northrop Grumman HQ Decision - Soon?

2010-05-20T00:51:00.001-04:00

At the end of last month, Northrop Grumman decided to move their headquarters out of California to Virginia to be closer to their biggest client, the Federal Government. This decision was announced nearly a month ago with the additional announcement of just where they are moving in the Northern Virginia area imminent. Most of the local media reported that there was one of two locations for Northrop Grumman in play. in Falls Church and Arlington.

However, there's been dead silence on this issue.

Could this mean that Alexandria, considered a long shot by many, is still be in play with Northrop Grumman?

Alexandria, working with the Commonwealth of Virginia, has partnered with JM Zell Partners to try and lure Northrop Grumman to the Carlyle Plaza One development for sometime. While it would be sad to see this project go to either of the other two sites, I think the silence speaks volumes. Let's hope there's good news for Alexandria about this.

Thoughts?