Alexandria Living Magazine - November/December 2022

Live where you love. Give where you live.

Whether she is sponsoring a local food drive, or raising money for police dogs, Lisa Groover prides herself as being an active member of the Old Town Alexandria community. Serving Old Town and her clients are two of Lisa’s greatest passions. She loves helping her friends, neighbors and clients with their real estate needs, while supporting local causes in the region. Lisa thrives on giving back and seeing Alexandria grow and prosper. In this season of giving, if you are looking for more ways to become involved, please give Lisa a call - she has tons of ideas!

Lisa Groover, McEnearney Associate

Whether

9 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

It's that time of the year. Don't miss a thing! Grab your calendar and start penciling in some fun holiday plans.

DINING

Don't let chilly weather keep you at home. Make plans to dine fireside at one of these cozy Alexandria restaurants.

PETS

Get your furry friends ready for plunging temperatures with booties, a change in diet and even outerwear and paw balm.

HISTORY

The American Horticultural Society is celebrating its 100th year and enjoying a renewed sense of purpose after coming out of an uncertain time, when its River Farm headquarters was put up for sale and had staff and the community on pins and needles.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Find the perfect gift for everyone on your list. We've gathered a unique collection of items to peruse, many made right here in Alexandria by talented artists and makers.

THE LAST WORD

Stella Hanley switched careers from software developer to animal advocate after fostering a puppy. Animal Welfare League of Alexandria's executive director.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHARTHOUSE

PHOTO COURTESY OF MYSTIQUE JEWELERS

TOWN MARKET

HOLIDAY CRAFT

the

Spirit

CHARLES SCHMIDT

PHOTO BY MARY ANN BARTON

PHOTO BY MAC MIRABILE

A Letter from Our Founders

PUBLISHER Beth Lawton

EDITOR Mary Ann Barton

ADVERTISING/EVENTS

Cleo Chitester Kristen Riffle Katherine Barton

DESIGN & ILLUSTRATION Julianne Woehrle

PUBLISHING ASSISTANT Susannah Moore

Alexandria Living Magazine is published six times per year by Alexandria Living, LLC ©2022. 201 N. Union St., Suite 110 Alexandria, VA 22314. For newsstand or distribution locations or to subscribe for home delivery, go to alexandrialivingmagazine.com/subscribe.

CONTACT US

info@alexandrialivingmagazine.com or call 571-232-1310.

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PRESS RELEASES & TIPS

Send news releases and story tips to maryann@alexandrialivingmagazine.com

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Happy Holidays!

We hope you are ready to enjoy the coming holiday season. We're just as excited as you are about all of the events that make living in Alexandria this time of year so special. You can start planning now by checking out the many seasonal doings coming up in our calendar starting on Page 9. It's full of activities you won't want to miss, including the Alexandria Film Festival, water-skiing Santa, the holiday boat parade of lights, Mount Vernon by Candlelight and much more.

A great way to kick off the holiday season? We hope you can join us Sunday, Nov. 6 for a fall festival we're holding at River Farm. You can find details in this issue as well as on our website. Pony rides, food vendors, live music, local beer and wine vendors and holiday shopping are on tap. Get your tickets now. Can't wait to see you there!

Speaking of River Farm, in this issue we talk to Suzanne Laporte, the new CEO of the American Horticultural Society, celebrating its 100th year and its renewed sense of purpose after the brouhaha over a possible sale of its River Farm headquarters, on Page 32.

Near River Farm is another environmental oasis. Huntley Meadows not only attracts birds, beavers, deer, ducks, eagles, frogs, turtles and more, it also attracts many local talented photographers. We've featured some of their amazing photos here. Our cover photo of a male cardinal is by Charles Schmidt. Beautiful!

Alexandria is known for its love of animals and not just the wildlife variety. Our pets are an important part of our lives and local writer Susannah Moore gives us some great tips to help your pups get ready for the colder temperatures ahead.

If the cold temperatures have you dreaming about a tropical vacation, we've got just the answer: Check out our travel story on Hawaii (specifically Maui and Kauai). We caught the aloha spirit — hope you do too!

Don't let our colder temperatures keep you from stepping out to some of Alexandria's coziest restaurants this season. We did the homework to find eateries where you'll find crackling fireplaces and firepits sure to please.

While you're enjoying one of Alexandria's cozy restaurants, why not peruse our holiday gift guide to get your shopping off to a great start? We have plenty of ideas for everyone on your list, with many items created by artists and other makers right here in Alexandria.

And last but not least, in this issue's The Last Word: Animals are at the heart of everything that Stella Hanley does. A former software developer, she changed her career course after fostering a pup 17 years ago (Rupert is still part of her family today!). Read all about Hanley and her job as executive director of the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria.

Thank you for being a loyal reader and please tell your friends about us! Enjoy your holidays and we'll see you back here in 2023.

Beth Lawton, publisher, and Mary Ann Barton, editor PHOTO BY MATT MENDELSOHN, TAKEN AT VIRTUE FEED & GRAIN.

Mary Ann Barton and Beth Lawton Founders

Our Team

Meet some of the contributors to this issue.

MARY ANN BARTON Founder / Editor

Mary Ann is editor of Alexandria Living Magazine. She and Beth Lawton founded the magazine in 2018 after working together at Patch.com. A native of Minnetonka, Minnesota, Mary Ann began her journalism career as a reporter in Little Rock. She loves the character and history of Alexandria as well as the camaraderie of the business community. Send her story tips: maryann@alexandrialivingmagazine. com.

SUSANNAH MOORE Contributor

Susannah has happily called Alexandria home since 2015. She graduated from the College of Charleston and has worked in the political and legal fields and is excited for the opportunity to rekindle her interest in writing. For fun, she enjoys running along the Potomac with her husband, yoga or spending time with her rescue cat, Cinnamon, and golden retriever, Kai.

BETH LAWTON Founder / Publisher

Beth founded the magazine in 2018 with Mary Ann Barton after working together at Patch.com. She grew up in West Hartford, Connecticut, before "bouncing around the Midwest" and then spending a year in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Beth now lives in the West End with her husband Joe, two children, a dog, a cat and a guinea pig.

CHARLES SCHMIDT Contributor

Charles loves photographing all aspects of nature - animals and birds at rest and in action, beautiful landscapes and those small details seen through macro photography. He started learning photography in high school, over 40 years ago. He got a Canon film camera and set up his own darkroom. Before retiring last year, Charles' full time job was working in the intelligence community where he analyzed satellite images. More of his photography can be found at www.cschmidtphotos.com.

JULIANNE WOEHRLE Designer

Local artist and designer, Julianne grew up right here in Alexandria. After graduating from Virginia Commonwealth University with a degree in Fashion Merchandising she returned to Old Town, Alexandria and joined the retail scene. From Why Not? to Monday's Child, over the last 10 years she has always been involved in boutique retail. Currently you can find her stationery and jewelry at the Made in ALX store in North Old Town, and at the right time you might even run into her redoing the windows!

MABEL Contributor

Don't let that innocent face fool you. In addition to watching the snow fall (and the birds and squirrels cavort) Mabel (Katherine Barton's calico) helps with almost every issue of Alexandria Living. She likes to knock pens off of desktops and lie across keyboards on deadline of course! A rescue kitten, Mabel encourages readers to visit the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria.

City of Alexandria Tree Lighting Ceremony

Nov. 19 | 6-7 p.m.

Ring in the city’s official start to the holiday season in Market Square with the lighting of the 40-foot tree adorned with nearly 40,000 twinkling lights. Enjoy appearances from Alexandria’s Town Crier and Santa himself.

Market Square, 300 King St., alexandriava.gov/Calendar

Calendar of Events

November

Temari Workshop

Oct. 30 | 11 a.m.

Learn the ancient Japanese art of Temari. You will learn how to stitch beautiful designs on a thread-covered ball and create an ornament that will become an instant heirloom in this Made in ALX workshop with Hatch Skills. Advance ticket purchase required.

Made in ALX, 533 Montgomery St., madeinalx.com

Election Day

Nov. 8

General election for U.S. House of Representatives 8th District. Incumbent Don Beyer (D) is running against Karina A. Lipsman (R) and Teddy Fikre (I). To find your polling station and the most up-todate information, visit alexandriava.gov/ Elections if you live in the City of Alexandria or fairfaxcounty.gov/elections if you live in Fairfax County.

Alexandria Film Festival

Nov. 10-27

The 16th annual Alexandria Film Festival will be a hybrid event that will include both virtual and in-person screenings and panel discussions. Visit the event website for the latest information on the festival and featured films.

alexfilmfest.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT ALEXANDRIA

Concerts at The Birchmere

Check out some of the performances scheduled for November and December at The Birchmere. Check The Birchmere’s website for the latest information and a full concert list. The concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices vary.

NOV. 2

Pink Martini featuring China Forbes [SOLD OUT]

NOV. 4 Phillip Phillips

NOV. 5

Loose Ends featuring Jane Eugene

NOV. 10 Damien Escobar "Life Out Loud" Tour

NOV. 11, 12 Paula Poundstone

NOV. 13 Rodney Crowell

NOV. 16 Tower of Power

NOV. 17 Boney James

NOV. 18, 19 Jeffrey Osbourne

NOV. 29, 30 Musiq Soulchild

DEC. 2, 3 Chris Botti

DEC. 8

An Acoustic Christmas with Over the Rhine

DEC. 11

Karla Bonoff and Livingston Taylor "Home for the Holidays"

DEC. 13 Storm Large "Holiday Ordeal"

DEC. 15, 16 Carbon Leaf

DEC. 20 Samara Joy DEC. 21 A John Waters Christmas

DEC. 22

Maysa: A Very Maysa Christmas

DEC. 23 Charles Esten with N'est Pas

DEC. 31

New Year's Eve with The Seldom Scene, Eastman String Band and Wicked Sycamore

The Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., birchmere.com

The “Chinese Lady’s Presence" Lecture

Nov. 10 | 7 p.m.

Nancy E. Davis, curator emeritus of Home and Community Life at the National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution, shares the story of Afong Moy’s travels in Virginia, the District of Columbia and Maryland. Tickets are $10. Virtual option is available.

The Lyceum, 201 S. Washington St., shop. alexandriava.gov/Events.aspx

Beginning Brush Lettering Class

Nov. 12 | 2 p.m.

Learn the art of brush lettering as you make a fun home décor item for your Thanksgiving gathering! This class is taught by Prisletters by Diana, a nationallyrecognized calligraphy and lettering teacher. Advance registration required. Made in ALX, 533 Montgomery St., madeinalx.com

NOV 12-13

Scheherazade: Afghan Days, Arabian Nights

Nov. 12 | 7:30 p.m.

Nov. 13 | 3 p.m.

Rimsky-Korsakov’s popular poetic telling of four tales from "1001 Arabian Nights" has awed symphony audiences for 150 years. Newly arrived members of the Alexandria community share the rhythms and voices of their native Afghanistan at this concert presented by Alexandria Symphony Orchestra (ASO).

Saturday - Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, 4915 E Campus Dr.

Sunday - George Washington Masonic Memorial, 101 Callahan Dr. alexsym.org

Bold as Brass: From Bach to Bernstein

Nov. 13 | 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Celebrate the fall season with the vibrant sound of brass! This outdoor concert presented by Classical Movements will include exciting works from Bach

Art Fest at Torpedo Factory Art Center

Nov. 12-13 | noon - 4 p.m.

Shop for affordable art deals on all three floors of the Torpedo Factory Art Center while enjoying drinks from local craft brewers and wineries, as well as live music. Choose from a variety of tiered tickets for drinks plus discounts on select affordable art.

Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St., torpedofactory.org

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SELDOM SCENE

PHOTO COURTESY OF MOUNT VERNON ESTATE

Janet Caterson Price

Bernstein

Holiday Cookie Classes at Lost Boy

Nov. 15 | 6:30-8 p.m.

6 | 6:30-8

13 | 6:30-8

Join Amalea from Sugarcoated Bakery and Lost Boy Cider for these 90-minute classes where you will learn how to decorate three different holiday-inspired cookie shapes - two of each for a total of a halfdozen cookies. Amalea will provide expert instruction and tips so you can decorate beautiful — and delicious — cookies! All the baking, mixing, bagging (and clean up!) is already done, so you get to focus on the fun. A Lost Boy Cider (non-alcoholic options available) is included with the price of admission plus 10 percent of all Lost Boy Cider to-go orders for the evening. Tickets

Mount Vernon by Candlelight

Nov. 25-26, Dec. 2-3, 9-10 and 18

Join costumed Mount Vernon staff for a candlelit guided tour and learn about holiday traditions in 18th-century Virginia, including decorations and dancing. The tour is followed by cider and cookies at the Donald W. Reynolds Museum & Education Center Lobby. Shop for holiday gifts at The Shops at Mount Vernon which will be open until 9 p.m. Tickets are $26 for adults and $18 for youth (members) and $36 for adults and $28 for youth (non-members).

Alexandria Turkey Trot

Nov. 24 | 9 a.m.

Alexandria’s 47th 5-mile Turkey Trot is the D.C. area’s premier Thanksgiving road race, presented by the D.C. Road Runners Club and the Del Ray Business Association. This is a “pancake flat” course in Del Ray. Register until 8:30 a.m., 30 minutes before the race begins. Bring canned or non-perishable food items to donate to the Alive! food program. For more information and to register, visit alexandriaturkeytrot.com.

are $60 and a gluten-free cookie kit and additional DIY cookie kits are available for additional charge.

Lost Boy Cider, 317 Hoofs Run Dr., sugarcoatedbakeryva.com

Ice & Lights: The Winter Village at Cameron Run

Nov. 18-Jan. 1 | 5-10 p.m.

Enjoy food, shopping, ice skating, photo ops and lots of holiday lights at the Ice & Lights

Winter Village! Ice skating reservations must be made ahead online for one-hour time slots.

Cameron Run, 4001 Eisenhower Ave., novaparks. com/events/ice-lights

Can the Bird 5K

Nov. 24 | 8 a.m.

The Mount Vernon Lee Chamber of Commerce presents their second annual Thanksgiving Day 5K. The race will begin and end in the Walmart parking lot in Kingstowne. All ages can enjoy a run, jog or stroll around Kingstowne Center and the scenic Kingstowne Lake. Runners are encouraged to bring canned or nonperishable items to donate to a local food bank. Registrants will receive a commemorative race T-shirt and digital coupons and top winners will receive a medal.

mountvernonleechamber.org/can-the-bird-5k

Shop Small Weekend

Nov. 25-26

With hundreds of locally owned small businesses lining its streets, Alexandria is the Washington, D.C., area’s small business hub. Visitors can stroll historic streets twinkling with holiday traditions and find special discounts and gifts on Plaid Friday,

George Washington’s Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., mountvernon.org

PHOTO COURTESY OF MOUNT VERNON ESTATE

Candle-Making Workshop

Nov. 12 | 11 a.m.

Learn how to make your own vegan soy wax, wood wick candles in this Made in ALX workshop with C&A Soy Candles. You’ll make three of your own custom scented candles to take home. Advance registration required. This workshop is also scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 1 at 7 p.m.

Made in ALX, 533 Montgomery St., madeinalx.com

Alexandria’s Black Friday experience and Small Business Saturday.

Various locations in Alexandria, visitalexandria.com/ holidays/shop-small

Holiday Makers’ Market at Port City

Nov. 26 | 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Shop and sip local for all your holiday presents! More than 30 local makers will pop-up at Port City Brewing Co. with everything from candles to books, games, art, home décor, clothes and even gifts for your pet. Sponsored by Made in ALX.

Port City Brewing Co., 3950 Wheeler Ave., portcitybrewing.com and madeinalx.com

Del Ray Artisans’ 27th Annual Fine Art & Fine Craft Holiday Market

Dec. 2-4, 9-11 and 16-18

Fridays 6-9 p.m.

Saturdays and Sundays 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Join the Del Ray Artisans for their 27th annual Holiday Market. Different artists are featured each weekend. The Market offers unique handmade fine arts and fine crafts from local artists presenting a variety of media, including fiber/textiles, glass, jewelry, mixed media, mosaics, painting, paper crafting, photography, pottery/ ceramics, sculpture, watercolor, wood

turning and more! Artists are donating a percentage of their sales to help support

Del Ray Artisans’ mission to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.

Del Ray Artisans, 2704 Mount Vernon Ave., delrayartisans.org

Winter Wreath Class

Dec. 3 | 10 a.m.-noon

Craft an elegant holiday wreath for your home using an assortment of evergreens and botanical accents, including some collected from Mount Vernon’s historic landscape! The class is taught by Melanie Welles Creamer, Mount Vernon greenhouse manager and longtime floral designer. The cost is $125 for non-members and $105 for members.

George Washington’s Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., mountvernon.org

Kissing Ball Design Class

Dec. 3, 4 | 2-3 p.m.

Participants will use an assortment of fresh greens to create their own kissing ball, and take their creation home to add a personal touch to holiday decor. Taught by Melanie Welles Creamer, Mount Vernon greenhouse manager and longtime floral designer, participants will have fun “cultivating” their creative talents! Cost is $65 for the

general public and $45 for members. A $15 discount is available if purchased along with the Wreath Making Class.

George Washington’s Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., mountvernon.org

22nd Annual Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights

Dec. 3 | 5:30 p.m.

Old Town Alexandria’s historic waterfront will shine for the 22nd Annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights, as more than 50 brightly lit boats cruise along one mile of the Potomac River shoreline. This year’s event is sponsored by Amazon. Enjoy dockside festivities starting at 2 p.m. in Waterfront Park including a pop-up beer garden from Port City Brewing Company and much more.

The Golden Age of Toys Exhibit Dec. 3-Jan. 8

PHOTO COURTESY OF

51st Annual Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade

Dec. 3 | 11 a.m.

Alexandria was founded in 1749 by Scottish merchants and was named after Scotsman John Alexander who owned the land that became Alexandria. Today, the city continues celebrating its heritage with the iconic Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade. Dozens of Scottish clans dressed in colorful tartans parade through the streets of Old Town, joined by pipe and drum bands from around the region, as well as terriers, hounds and more.

Old Town Alexandria, visitalexandria.com/holidays/scottish-walk

Old Town Alexandria Waterfront, visitalexandria.com/holidays/boat-parade

Join Lee-Fendall House Museum for this special holiday exhibit and venture into the golden age of toys from 1870 to 1920. Learn how toy production was perfected in the era when Christmas first became associated with toys and gift-giving and explore some highlights from the LeeFendall collection. The exhibit is free with general admission.

Lee-Fendall House Museum and Garden, 614 Oronoco St., leefendallhouse.org

Ken Ludwig's & Jack Ludwig's Tiny Tim's Christmas Carol Dec. 3-Dec. 17 | various times

The Little Theatre of Alexandria rings in the holiday season with a new take on the classic tale by Charles Dickens. Tiny Tim longs to have his father home on Christmas day, but Ebenezer Scrooge won’t give Bob Cratchit the day off. There must be a way to change Scrooge’s mind – and perhaps a ghost or two will set Scrooge right!

The Little Theatre of Alexandria, 600 Wolfe St., thelittletheatre.com

Candlelight Tours

Dec. 3, 10, and 17 | 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Celebrate the holiday season with evening candlelight tours of the Lee-Fendall House decked out in Victorian splendor. Their antique toy exhibit will also be on view. Tours are offered on the half hour, starting at 5:30 p.m. and ending at 7:30 p.m. Space is limited to 12 people and reservations are required. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children (ages 5-17).

Lee-Fendall House Museum and Garden, 614 Oronoco St., leefendallhouse.org

Del Ray Holiday Tree & Menorah Lighting

Dec. 4

The Del Ray neighborhood will come together for the annual Christmas tree lighting, Menorah lighting and holiday carols. Enjoy hand-painted holiday windows in storefronts and start your holiday shopping with a stroll down Mount Vernon Avenue, which will be illuminated by thousands of luminarias.

A Victorian Christmas Dec. 10 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Experience the wonder of the season by visiting the Lee-Fendall House for a family-friendly Victorian Christmas! Enjoy traditional décor, music, seasonal crafts, a visit with Santa, a toy exhibit and more. Timed tickets on the hour starting at 10 a.m. and ending at 3 p.m. are available by registering in advance. Face masks are recommended inside the museum. Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for children (ages 2-12), children under 2 are admitted free of charge.

Lee-Fendall House Museum and Garden, 614 Oronoco St., leefendallhouse.org

Holiday Family Days at Mount Vernon

Dec. 10, 11 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Discover how the holiday season was commemorated in the 18th century through family-friendly activities. Sensory-friendly accommodations for guests who desire a quieter visit are available between 9-11 a.m. The program is included with the cost of admission.

George Washington’s Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., mountvernon.org

Old Town Alexandria Christmas Fair and Holiday Craft Show

Dec. 10 | 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Start your holiday shopping and find the perfect gift for your loved ones at Old Town Alexandria Christmas Market and Holiday Craft Show at John Carlyle Square. Over 110 artisans, crafters, independent consultants and other local small businesses are looking

PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT ALEXANDRIA

forward to showcasing their products, from arts and crafts to jewelry and baked goods, to body and hair care, just in time for the holidays!

John Carlyle Square, 300 John Carlyle St.

Parent & Me Christmas Cookie Class

Dec. 11 | 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Make lasting memories and share the joy of the season with your family by joining Sugarcoated Bakery for a one-hour long, Christmas-themed "parent and me" cookiedecorating class at Boxwood. Boxwood will turn into "Christmas cookie central" with festive holiday music, light refreshments, hot chocolate and coffee, and of course lots of cookies. The class includes six cookies in Christmas-inspired shapes, icing, sprinkles and tools. Attendees will also receive 10 percent off in-store purchases at Boxwood. Classes are limited to 10 tickets/20 total attendees. This is a beginner-level, all-ages class with a focus on fun. Tickets are $75 and a gluten-free cookie kit; additional DIY cookie kits are available for additional charge.

Boxwood, 128 S. Royal St., sugarcoatedbakeryva.com

Dec. 16, 17 | 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Kick off the holiday season with sparkling fireworks overlooking the Potomac River. Enjoy a tour of the Mount Vernon mansion, lights, a winter market and encampment, food and drinks, shopping, music and of course fireworks! Prices are:

Members:

Adult with Mansion Tour: $50, No Tour: $48 Youth with Mansion Tour: $28, No Tour: $26

General Public:

Adult with Mansion Tour: $60, No Tour: $58 Youth with Mansion Tour: $38, No Tour: $36

George Washington’s Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., mountvernon.org

Home for the Holidays – Jingle!

Dec. 17 | 7:30 p.m. Dec. 18 | 3 p.m.

Enjoy a traditional holiday fare performance with some exciting surprises! Alexandria Symphony Orchestra (ASO) welcomes soprano Helena Colindres. Enjoy music from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker,

Water Skiing Santa

Dec. 24 | 1 p.m.

Keep an eye out for Santa enjoying some fun waterskiing along Alexandria’s waterfront before a long night of delivering gifts to good boys and girls. Alexandria’s beloved tradition is expected to return this year after being cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to Covid-19. Details will be posted at waterskiingsanta.com.

First Night Alexandria

Dec. 31

The largest family-friendly, budget-friendly New Year’s Eve event in the region returns for its 28th year. A community celebration of the arts, First Night Alexandria rings in the new year with music, comedy, dance and a fireworks show.

firstnightalexandria.org

Handel’s Messiah, holiday favorites, a singalong and more!

Saturday: Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, 4915 E Campus Dr. Sunday: George Washington Masonic Memorial, 101 Callahan Dr. alexsym.org

Christmas Illuminations at Mount Vernon

NOVEMBER 2022

Alexandria Film Fest Starts Rolling in November

Pass the popcorn!

The 16th annual Alexandria Film Festival starts rolling on Nov. 11 and continues through Nov. 27 this year with in-person and online screenings.

The Alexandria Film Festival shows innovative, independent films from here in Alexandria and all over the world, including premiers of full-length feature films. More than 50 films have been selected for this year’s festival.

The festival kicks Nov. 11 and 12 off with in-person screenings, filmmaker discussions and more at the AMC Hoffman, and events on Nov. 13 at The Lyceum. The festival

continues Nov. 13 through Nov. 27 online with screenings through Eventive.

The Alexandria Film Fest will be bringing back it’s the popular Burke & Herbert Bank Family Showcase, which features films by and about young people. The annual “Salute to Service Members” Showcase will be offered free of charge to active and retired service members to celebrate the Veteran’s Day Weekend falling on the same dates as the festival.

Highlights of this year’s festival include films that were part major film festivals such as Sundance and Tribeca. This includes the dramady Aaron with Two As, the documentary Brainwashed: Sex-Camera-

Power, and a horror-light film Second Hand. A complete schedule, tickets and passes to all screenings are available now through alexfilmfest.com.

This year’s major sponsors include: Burke & Herbert Bank, Connection Newspapers, Alexandria Times, Zebra Press, Visit Alexandria, Alexandria Living Magazine, the West End Business Association, Jim Connelly Real Estate, Alexandria Commission for the Arts, and Alexandria Hyundai. The festival also gratefully acknowledges support from the Alexandria Commission for the Arts, the City of Alexandria, Spring2Action and ACT for Alexandria.

Cozy Nights

BY BETH LAWTON

It’s firepit and fireplace season in Alexandria, and Alexandria’s restaurants are ready to welcome you to a cozy fire with holiday drinks and warm snacks.

Here are just a few of Alexandria’s best restaurants with fireplaces and cozy corners.

RESTAURANT

219 King St., Old Town

The elegant, cozy 219 Restaurant is the perfect spot for a quiet date night. The main dining room features a fireplace and offers an elegant range of French Creole cuisine with just enough kick to keep you warm.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHART HOUSE

PHOTO BY ALEXANDRIA LIVING MAGAZINE

During the pandemic, The Blackwall Hitch did some serious upgrades to its outdoor dining scene, including firepit coffee tables on the back patio. Watch the Potomac River while you’re enjoying one of their popular fire-roasted flatbread pizzas or flaming crab dip.

CEDAR KNOLL

9030 Lucia Lane, Fort Hunt

Off the beaten path of Old Town, Cedar Knoll is a gem. Request a seat in the Cabin Room, which dates back to the 1800s and features a cozy stone fireplace.

One of the most popular photo locations at the Chart House is the lighthouse-style room with the copper fireplace. It’s a quiet place to relax with a stunning view of the waterfront. End the night with a piece of hot chocolate lava cake.

DANIEL O’CONNELL’S

112 King St., Old Town

With four separate “snugs” in this classic Irish gathering place, you’re sure to find a cozy corner for a drink with friends this winter. The restaurant has several working fireplaces complementing the dark wood interior with quiet booths and tables.

You can see the fires roaring as you drive past Lena’s Wood-Fired Pizza and Tap near the Braddock Metro Station. Sit at the bar by the pizza oven for extra warmth or step outside to one of the tables near the roaring firepit. The menu includes plenty of winter goodness, including house-made pastas (and, of course, pizzas).

MAGNOLIA

703 King St., Old Town

Recently reopened, Magnolia (formerly Magnolia’s on King) is in a beautiful 200-year-old historic building. Head upstairs to the lounge to enjoy comfort

BLACKWALL HITCH Waterfront, Cameron Street, Old Town

CHART HOUSE Waterfront, Cameron Street, Old Town

LENA’S WOOD-FIRED PIZZA & TAP 401 E. Braddock Rd., Del Ray

PHOTO COURTESY OF LENA'S WOOD-FIRED PIZZA & TAP

JANET

VILLAGE BRAUHAUS

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHADWICKS

Cold Weather Friends

BY SUSANNAH MOORE

When temperatures begin to drop, we typically reach for layers, cozy coats, knits and warm food and beverages to ward off the chill. Just like us, our furry friends also need to be readied for the winter.

Believe it or not, dogs can develop hypothermia and even frostbite when exposed to the cold for too long. Small dogs, senior dogs, puppies and shortcoated dogs are especially at risk.

The Old Farmers’ Almanac predicts that this winter will be colder and snowier than

usual but thankfully there are a lot of ways you can do to keep your pup warm, happy and healthy this season.

outside when the temperatures drop (like dachshunds, beagles and bulldogs). With the change in temperature often comes a change in activity levels.

Dogs that enjoy the cold may have increased energy compared to the warmer months and spend a lot of time frolicking in the backyard. Dogs (and owners) that don’t like the cold will likely be less active and go on fewer walks. Your pup’s calorie intake should be adjusted accordingly.

Adjust food and water

There are two kinds of dogs, those that come alive in the cold and snow (think huskies, Bernese mountain dogs, saint bernards etc.) and those that refuse to step

“A lot of people don’t realize how much less water their dog drinks in the winter,” said Annabell Bivens who has managed The Dog Store in Del Ray for five years. “Since it’s not hot out and the dogs are not as active, just adding something to the daily food is something we suggest,” she continued. If your dog is drinking less water, consider supplementing with goats

milk, bone broths, wet food and kibble toppers to make sure they are staying hydrated.

Keep boredom at bay

With lack of activity comes boredom but there are plenty of ways to keep your dog stimulated indoors. Lick mats, puzzle toys, safe-chews and treat-filled balls keep your dog’s mind engaged and their bodies moving. A tired dog will be less likely to reach for your favorite pair of slippers.

“20 minutes of chewing and figuring out puzzles can be as mentally tiring as 2030 minutes of walking can be physically exhausting,” explained Bivens.

Protect the paws

Many of substances used to melt ice on sidewalks and roads are dangerous or even toxic for dogs, not to mention that

ice and snow can cause frostbite. Consider purchasing dog boots or socks from a local pet store. The Dog Store carries dog boots in sizes XXS-XXL so dogs of all shapes and sizes can be protected.

It may take some time for your pup to get used to wearing something on his or her paws, but with persistence and lots of treats and praise, many dogs will adapt.

In addition to boots consider purchasing a natural paw balm or wax to protect and soothe paw pads. Local business Virginia

Cat Tent, PHOTO BY JEFF CRAEGER

Honey Bees sells a paw balm made with beeswax from their honey bees.

Make sure to clean your dog’s paws with soap and water or pet-friendly wipes after they have been outside to remove snow, ice and any toxic materials. Many local pet stores carry pet-safe ice melt you can use instead of traditional ice melt. Consider encouraging your condo association or local businesses to switch to pet-safe ice

According to the AKC, the following symptoms can be signs of hypothermia in dogs:

• Increased heart rate, followed by a slow heart rate

• Rapid breathing, followed by progressively slower and shallower breath

• Sluggishness and delayed reflexes

• Depression

• Paleness

• Dilated pupils

• Loss of consciousness

melts on their sidewalks if they don’t use them already.

Bundle up

Just because your dog has fur, doesn’t mean they don’t need a jacket to ward off the winter weather. Even long-haired breeds can benefit from a sweater or fleece not only to protect from the cold, but also to keep fur from dragging in snow and ice which can hurt to brush out. “The preventative for that is to wear a protective layer like a coat. As they’re walking, the underbrush gets all gunky but if they’re wearing a fleece it protects it,” said Karen Echeverri, who owns Pampered Pets Boutique and Barkery in Belle View. The shop carries dog jackets all the way up to size 6X.

In addition to looking absolutely adorable (and getting lots of attention), a coat or sweater can have a calming effect on some dogs. For dogs that get cold easily consider layering a fleece with a waterproof jacket over top. Let your dog get used to wearing the clothing item even while inside so they don’t only associate it with going outside. Select the right style for your dog to make sure they stay warm but don’t overheat.

Make sure your pup has a warm, cozy bed or blanket to sleep on (especially if they

aren’t allowed to snuggle with you in bed). Pampered Pets carries a branded fleece blanket that would be perfect for your pet (and you) and serves double duty to protect floors and furniture from wet paws and fur. Dogs should never sleep outside in cold weather.

Stay visible

Shorter days means that daily morning or evening walks in the winter are often in the dark. Make sure you and your dog stay safe with reflective leashes, clothing and light up collars or harnesses. Many dog jackets have reflective details for this very reason.

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The American Horticultural Society Celebrates 100 Years

BY MARY ANN BARTON

It's a beautiful fall day at River Farm, the national headquarters of the American Horticultural Society — blue skies, green grass, blooming plants — and the phone is jangling in Leslie Bauman's office just inside the foyer of the historic manor on the 27.6acre property overlooking the Potomac River.

A woman on the other end of the line just called to reserve a wedding date for June 2024.

The bucolic spot is popular for weddings, birthday parties, even memorials and rental fees help fund the mission of AHS. Bauman, events manager, loves her "dream job" and it keeps her busy all day long, whether she's on the phone, giving tours or

helping at events.

In the not too distant past, the place was pretty quiet.

The property — located off the George Washington Parkway between Old Town and Mount Vernon — was put up for sale two years ago for $32.9 million. A purchase offer from NOVA Parks, Northern Virginia Conservation Trust and their partners was rejected. A former Trump administration official hoped to purchase the property along with two other adjacent properties to create a luxury residential community, the Washington Business Journal reported.

With significant public opposition to any sale, the 10-member AHS board deadlocked and the property was taken off the market after half of its board

members resigned. (One of those adjacent properties, River View, next door to River Farm, was sold to Dan Snyder, owner of The Washington Commanders, for $48 million in cash, WBJ reported.)

New board members joined AHS and now there's a renewed sense of purpose — and a palpable sense of relief — from the staff and surrounding community.

AHS is under new leadership with Suzanne LaPorte at the helm as the society celebrates its 100th anniversary. LaPorte is former CEO of Friends of Compass, Inc., a Washington D.C.-based nonprofit that provides pro bono strategic consulting to other nonprofits. She was named CEO and president of AHS in March.

Q: As AHS celebrates its 100th anniversary, you've come aboard this year to help set the organization up for success for another 100 years. Can you tell our readers some specific ideas or plans you have to ensure its success?

A: Our 100th anniversary year has been a very exciting time for AHS – and for me personally as I complete my first six months as President & CEO. We just held our 100th anniversary gala at River Farm, which was a beautiful event that attracted a sold-out crowd. It was also our most successful fundraising event ever. Overall, we've been working diligently to put new plans and strategies in place to help ensure a strong and vibrant future for both AHS and River Farm.

Our current priorities include making important repairs and improvements to the property and grounds and assessing our current operations to ensure that our programs meet the needs of our members and stakeholders. We are building the internal systems and structures that help support these goals such as enhanced staff, improving financial reporting, rebranding and launching a new website, and increasing communication with the local community. Also, thanks to State Senators (David) Marsden and (Scott) Surovell, who are responsible for $2.1 million in the FY24 state budget for River Farm, we are planning the use of the funds to increase public access to River Farm.

Q: What is on the AHS "wish list" when it comes to sprucing up the property?

A: The gardens and grounds at River Farm are inherently magnificent, which is why it was so important for our Board to save the property from development and keep it open to the public. Over the past year, we have focused on general clean-up and maintenance of the gardens, as well as creating colorful seasonal plantings. Visitors will notice a much cleaner and wellkept property that will continue to improve over time. Our long-range goals include restoring the meadow, creating inspiring demonstration gardens, increasing public access to the property (including along the riverfront), and adding additional features, programs and enhancements that improve the overall visitor experience. In terms of an immediate wish list, we are planning to build a greenhouse, continue to improve the gardens and enhance and restore the buildings to support our public programs. We also hope to augment our wonderful team of volunteer gardeners over the next year.

Q: How is AHS supported? Is it mainly from rental of the River Farm property, AHS membership dues, fundraisers?

A: The American Horticultural Society is a 501(c)3 organization that is supported by several sources, including contributions from supporters and donors. Through our membership program, we raise money to support educational programs, publications, daily operations and the ongoing maintenance and preservation of River Farm. Rental revenue generated from events provides about 10 percent of our annual revenues. Going forward, we will focus on creating a plan for supporting the maintenance and operation of River Farm as the home base for our national AHS programming – including laying the groundwork for a major endowment campaign. Achieving long-term financial stability of both AHS/River Farm is a major goal of the AHS Board.

Below is a Q&A with LaPorte about the future of AHS and River Farm.

River Farm awaits guests for a recent gala celebrating American Horticultural Society's 100th anniversary. Photo courtesy of AHS

Q: Previous board members have noted that the AHS has relied heavily on River Farm rentals to sustain the organization. Can you expand on that?

A: Our current goal is to develop a comprehensive strategy and plan for maximizing the use and potential of River Farm as the place where AHS lives its mission. As we reinvigorate our programs and expand our membership base, we expect to see continued growth in both revenues and our impact locally and nationally. Rental income is and will be just one part of a balanced and strategic approach to creating a successful longterm funding model.

Q: River Farm is a beloved treasure of the region. Are there any plans afoot to put a conservation easement or endowment in place?

A: The AHS Board members who fought hard last year to save River Farm from development, and an almost certain demise of AHS as we know it, are dedicated to putting protections and guard rails in place to ensure the property will remain the headquarters of AHS and be open to the public forever. During the past year, the Board has moved swiftly to recover from the devastating effects of a prolonged 18-month battle to save the property by strengthening Board governance and

laying the groundwork to evaluate options for permanent protections, including exploring a potential conservation easement and endowment. As a first step, we're working on updating our master plan for the property to identify the specific improvements (e.g., a greenhouse and enhanced public access) that will be an essential part of these discussions. The Board remains 100% committed to protecting River Farm in perpetuity and continues to work towards that goal.

Q: In an ideal world, what would you like to see happen for AHS and River Farm in the next five to 10 years?

A: Over the next few years, our work will be focused on achieving our aspirational goal of making River Farm the place where AHS lives its founding mission – to promote excellence in horticulture nationwide. To realize that vision and expand our impact and reach, we'll need all of our friends and supporters – especially our stakeholders in the local community – to engage in and support our initiatives and programs. By strengthening finances and raising an endowment, we can guarantee a stable future for both AHS and River Farm. By launching a portfolio of new programs that engage and inspire our audiences both locally and nationwide, we can substantially increase our impact in the horticultural

world. By investing in making River Farm a national showcase of horticultural excellence and inspiration, we can ensure that this idyllic property will be open and preserved for public enjoyment forever. We are already working towards achieving all of these goals.

Q: What are ways that the local community can help the mission of AHS?

A: We've always had a wonderful group of loyal members, volunteers and generous donors who have supported us from the local community. What's clear from the events of the past few years is that none of us can take our priceless asset, River Farm, for granted. The saving of River Farm required a sustained, coordinated effort by the AHS Board, the local community, public officials and others who rallied together to preserve this iconic property. We hope to strengthen and build on these partnerships going forward. Our friends and neighbors can help in a number of ways: become an AHS member, participate in our programs, volunteer in the garden, make a donation. We are so appreciative of our community's support and are excited to collaborate with all of our stakeholders to guarantee a bright future for AHS and River Farm, including ensuring that the property remains open to the public forever.

River Farm awaits guests for a recent gala celebrating American Horticultural Society's 100th anniversary. Photo courtesy of AHS

The Best Gifts

BY BETH LAWTON

My brother used to go overboard with the tape on his holiday presents to me. It was entirely intentional, as siblings like to annoy each other sometimes. He got a lot of pleasure from watching me struggle to open his gift.

To get him back for all those years of presents wrapped in packing tape, duct tape or both, one year I got him a gift card from Man Crates. The company is famous for sending gift cards fully encased in concrete.

While neither of us can remember what the gift card itself was for, the memory of him standing outside our parents’ house attacking the concrete brick with a hammer is a favorite.

It turns out getting a gift is fun, but giving gifts is good for your mental health.

Michael Norton, PhD, a professor at Harvard Business School, studies how decision-making affects well-being. “Giftgiving is a sign we care about the people in our lives,” Dr. Norton told Everyday Health. That social connection created by giving a gift can contribute to a person's overall happiness.

In addition, Norton’s research shows that spending money on other people can lead to more happiness long-term than spending money on yourself. Unrelated research has shown that giving makes people feel good because the brain responds to giving by releasing dopamine and endorphins.

Sometimes it’s the thought that counts, but sometimes it’s the actual gift. Unfortunately, some people aren’t very good at thinking of good gifts for their loved ones.

We rounded up a few tips to help ensure your friends and family are as excited about their gift as you are to give it.

Ask Questions

On one of these quiet, rainy fall evenings, sit down and think:

What does your sister enjoy doing?

What do your parents need to be more comfortable as they age?

What new interests do your kids have that you want to encourage them to pursue?

Is there something your loved ones really love eating or drinking?

Thinking about your recipient's interests, needs and wants early in the shopping season will help guide your Internet

PHOTO COURTESY OF ISTOCKPHOTO

research or your purchases in local shops. It will also help you avoid making a last-minute, rushed purchase that falls flat.

Just… Ask!

If you're still struggling with a gift idea, you can always ask someone for ideas! Asking your giftee's significant other, children or friends for ideas can be a useful way to find out what they need.

Did anything recently break that they used a lot? (Caution: A vacuum cleaner is rarely a good gift, even if it recently broke.)

Have they mentioned needing anything?

Have they seen something in a store that caught their eye?

Do they have a favorite restaurant or a new hobby?

A person’s family and friends can be your eyes and ears for holiday present research and may have great ideas for you.

Or, you can ask the person you're buying for directly! While this may be a last resort and remove the surprise element from opening a gift, it nearly guarantees your recipient will be happy with what they got.

THE GIFT OF SOMETHING TO DO

Increasingly, people are giving experiential gifts instead of just physical items. A gift card to a favorite restaurant, plans for a weekend getaway, or a promised movie night or ski trip can make a good gift with great memories attached. Plus, these gifts can give everyone something to look forward to in the dark days of January.

The same guidelines apply when giving these gifts — think about what your recipient really enjoys doing or what they’ve said they would like to do and get a gift card that matches. If you can’t find the right gift card, a VISA or American Express gift card will do, but put it in a fun, decorated holiday envelope with a personal note explaining what it’s for and why!

A number of local businesses offer classes or workshops that can be a fun winter activity, and they provide gift cards for those events, too.

Check out some of the gifts on the following pages for ideas from local businesses.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ISTOCKPHOTO

How to Avoid a Financial Hangover in January

BY BETH LAWTON

It wouldn’t be a surprise if some national news organization or a dictionary company declared “inflation” the word of the year. Everything from the price of your holiday meal to shipping rates for your gifts will be more expensive than last year and the year before.

Even when inflation isn’t so high, it’s easy to overspend in the holiday season. To avoid getting a stress headache when you open that VISA bill in January, here are some tips on how to stick to a reasonable budget for this year’s holiday gifts.

Advance Research Is Your Friend

In terms of both getting a great gift and not spending too much on it, planning ahead will be very helpful. When you’re making your list of what you plan to buy for various people, add a column to that list and budget the maximum amount you want to spend on each item. Then, compare prices before you go to the store or click ‘buy’ online.

If you’re planning to buy things on Black Friday or Cyber Monday, look up prices online or from your favorite local stores in early November. Some businesses may raise prices the week before

PHOTO COURTESY OF ISTOCKPHOTO

Thanksgiving just to make Black Friday deals look better than they really are, and tracking prices is one way to make educated decisions.

How to Pay for It

Be careful with those credit cards. It’s better to pay for presents with money you have saved up than it is to rack up more debt. (But try to avoid raiding your retirement account!)

While it may not help you this season, it’s a good idea to set up a holiday savings account at the beginning of 2023 and set up an automatic transfer of a small amount of every paycheck to that account. That way, you’ll have money saved up to spend on presents next holiday season.

If you do choose to use a credit card, look at the terms and conditions of your cards closely. Some offer cash back on purchases, some offer automatic discounts, and some offer rebates or rewards at certain stores. Go to each credit card’s website and see what offers and deals are available so you know which card to use for each purchase.

Go Homemade

Is there something you’re really good at? Whether its knitting or another artistic endeav or, consider crafting something for your loved ones this year. If you’re not particularly crafty, framing a favorite photo or making candy at home can make an appreciated holiday gift for friends or family. If you still want to buy some thing, you can make it a smaller gift when you supplement it with something homemade.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ISTOCKPHOTO

5 tips to avoid holiday scams:

The top rule to remember this holiday season: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is! Listen to your gut, always, when you're looking for deals.

Here are a few more tips:

• Shopping online? Look for the SSL certificate. When you're on a secure website, you'll see a small lock icon in the address bar or the website will start with https.

• Be careful clicking on links in email. If a company is offering a coupon or promotion, it's probably also on their website. Instead of clicking on the link, go to the company's website and shop from there.

• Sometimes an email you receive making you aware of a "problem with your delivery" or asking for an extra fee for expedited shipping is actually a scam. If you aren't sure, pick up the phone and call the company you bought the item from to check with them first.

• Avoid purchases from businesses that only accept a cash, check or money order. It's more likely that getting your money back will be difficult or impossible.

• It's safer to pay with a credit card than it is to pay with a cash app like Venmo. Only use cash apps to pay people you already know and trust.

This holiday season, shoppers plan to spend an average of $770 on holiday gifts. Shoppers are also starting to shop earlier and do more price-com parison research due to inflation.

— RESEARCH FROM ALLY BANK, JULY 2022

Holiday Gift Guide

We’ve rounded up a few gift ideas to help you get started this holiday season.

The Gift of Self Care

Heyday is a skincare destination that takes the guesswork out of skincare and the facial out of the traditional spa experience. They offer fully custom facials that are approachable and affordable, allowing consumers to make facials a regular part of their wellness routine instead of a once-in-a-while luxury. They opened in Old Town Alexandria this summer and their gift cards are the perfect self-care gift — they can be used for a facial or for purchasing products at their shop. Plus, your first facial is just $65 (normally $130).

Heyday Skincare, 815 King St, Suite A 703-977-1165

alexandria@heydayskincare.com heydayskincare.com/products/ first-time-facial-at-alexandria

A Happier Kitchen

Catstudio dish towels make such wonderful gifts. They're bright and beautifully designed to celebrate the spirit and specialness of cities, states, and universities across the country. The Catstudio collection is expansive and includes dish towels of all 50 states as well as an assortment of hand-embroidered pillows and frosted tumblers. They also carry their military collection of towels, pillows, and glasses. There is truly something for everyone!

Red Barn Mercantile, 1117 King St. 703-838-0355

redbarnmercantile.com/collections/ catstudio-collection

Sparkle and Shine

A Personal Toast

This set of personalized wood coasters makes the perfect Christmas gift! The beautiful wood slices are cut from Californian Pine logs, laser engraved, and hand-sanded for a rustic yet refined look. Each coaster is 3/8" thick and between 3.5 and 4.25 inches in diameter, just $9.99.

Munsel Made 207-346-1623 etsy.com/listing/954366195/ custom-name-engraved-wood-coaster-set

Sophisticated Fun

The LAMY safari is one of Penny Post’s best-selling fountain pens. Made in Germany, these pens are timelessly modern and globally sought after. Available in a variety of colors, the LAMY safari is fun, reliable, and an excellent gift for expert and novice fountain pen users alike. And if fountain pens are not what you're after, a rollerball option is also available. $37

Penny Post, 1201 King St. 703-888-1515

shoppennypost.com/collections/ lamy-collection

These white gold diamond cluster earrings from King’s Jewelry will go with just about any outfit and add some sparkle to dark winter days. $695 (normally $925).

King’s Jewelry, 609 King St. 703-549-0011

kingsjewelry.net

Elegant Relaxation

This elegant and eco–friendly bathrobe is handcrafted from recycled silk sari fabric. The robe is hand–embroidered with a traditional running Kantha stitch. The Kantha Stitch Sari Bathrobe is handcrafted by talented makers working with artisan partner CRC Exports. By negotiating fair prices that allow artisans to support their families and grow their workshops, CRC helps artisans develop self–sustaining businesses. Assorted colors and patterns; each is unique. $175

Ten Thousand Villages, 915 King St. 703-684-1435

tenthousandvillages.com/Alexandria

An Heirloom Piece

This 14k yellow gold Uneek bracelet is gorgeous for your true love. It features 112 round diamonds with combined approximate weight of 1.54 ct. in a captivating finish.

Mystique Jewelers, 123 S. Fairfax St. 703-836-1401

mystiquejewelers.com

Local Pride

Inspired from Old Town Alexandria's architecture of the beautiful streets on South Fairfax Street, home of Mystique Jewelers, in honor of their 30th year celebration in Alexandria. This custom cuff is hand painted, adorned with 22K gold leaf and sterling silver leaf. Using an intricate process, the jewelry is gilded and burnished by hand and is fabricated over a period of five days, resulting in an exquisite work of art, each piece finished to a rich patina. The bracelet comes in small, medium, large and x-large. A beautiful and memorable gift for today and the holidays. $395

Mystique Jewelers, 123 S. Fairfax St. 703-836-1401

mystiquejewelers.com

Indestructable — Really!

For the dog that has destroyed every “indestructible” toy on the market, here’s one that will actually last! This Nuts for Knots rope toy available at The Dog Store in Del Ray comes in a variety of colors and is great for tug and fetch! $8.99

The Dog Store, 2301 Mt. Vernon Ave. 703-685-9166 shop.thedogstore.com

Glamour and Glitter

For playing dress-up or a shopping outing, these adorable, shiny and sparkly purses by Tiny Treats from Zomi Gems are sure to elicit a squeal of delight. Your child will be thrilled to carry this mermaid totestyle handbag. Several other styles available, too! $35

Monday’s Child, 218 N. Lee St. 703-548-3505 mondayschildclassics.com/ purple-blue-mermaid-purse

A Real Puzzler

For those cold winter days at home, pick up a challenge! With original art by award-winning Alexandria photographer Daniel Horowitz, these 1,000-piece puzzles will provide a fun challenge for everyone in your household. Limited editions. $37.95

Made in ALX, 533 Montgomery St. 703-239-4592 madeinalx.com

A Fun Challenge

This puzzle might just be the perfect after-dinner activity. This 500-piece puzzle from Old Town books features our charming city-scape reimagined with book spines in the mix. Artwork by illustrator Mike Reddy. $19.99

Old Town Books, 130 S. Royal St. 703-647-9749 oldtownbooks.com

Cozy and Warm

Socks? Yes, socks. While this gift may be the brunt of jokes, there’s a better way to shop. The Old Town Sock Co. has thousands (literally) of sock designs, allowing you to pick out the perfect pair to match your loved ones’ personality. From favorite dog breeds to hobby-themed socks, fuzzy warm pairs, five-toe socks, foozies and more, you can find a pair that will be much appreciated! Prices vary.

The Old Town Sock Co., 1003 King St. 202-836-7127

oldtownsockco.com

Sophisticated Sips

These are store favorites at The Old Town Shop! These Whiskey Stones from George Washington’s Mount Vernon are made of black basalt, which means they are non-porous, odorless and tasteless. Chill your whiskey without watering it down! Tip: The Old Town Shop is one of the few places locally that you can pick up chocolate-covered peanuts from Virginia’s own Hubbard Peanut Co. (more commonly known as Hubs) and is a popular spot for locally-themed holiday ornaments.

The Old Town Shop, 104 S. Union St. 703-684-4682

theoldtownshop.com

Don’t Show Up Empty-Handed!

Invited to a holiday party? Don’t show up empty-handed! When you don’t know the party host (or hostess) well enough to get a truly personal gift, you should still bring something to show your appreciation for their hospitality. A few suggestions:

• Pick up a bottle of wine from Wine Gallery 108 at 108 N. St. Asaph St., or a dry drink mix from Umbrella Dry Drinks (popping up through the end of this year) at 101A S. St. Asaph St. If you’re interested in some of Virginia’s most unique wines, check out Woodlawn Press Winery, 8733-B, Cooper Rd. south of Fort Hunt.

• We’ve found some amazing, yummy finds at Cheesetique, and they have a convenient and easy build-your-own gift basket option online. Cheesetique has a location in Del Ray at 2411 Mt. Vernon Ave. There’s a Shirlington location, too.

• If you were asked to “Bring a dessert!” to your gathering, make an unforgettable entrance with a tower cake from Bread & Water Co., 1512 Belle View Blvd. in Belle View.

• Flowers are always appreciated (unless your host is allergic). Pick up a bouquet from the Foxchase Florist, 4613 Duke St.

As for etiquette, once you hand over your item, your host can do whatever they want with it! While you may be salivating over that hostess gift you brought, they are under no obligation to serve it, especially if it doesn’t happen to match the menu. To be safe, pick up something for yourself that you can enjoy at home!

M a d e i n A L X c a r r i e s u n i q u e , h a n d - c r a f t e d g i f t s m a d e b y A l e x a n d r i a r e s i d e n t s .

V i s i t u s a t 5 3 3 M o n g t o m e r y S t . i n O l d T o w n N o r t h , o r s h o p o n l i n e t h i s f a l l a t w w w . m a d e i n a l x . c o m .

F R I D A YD I D Y O U K N O W . . .

W e l i k e h a v i n g f u n ! S i g n u p f o r a c r e a t i v e , c r a f t y w o r k s h o p w i t h a l o c a l m a k e r ( n o e x p e r i e n c e r e q u i r e d ) . O r , c o n t a c t M a d e i n A L X f o r i n f o r m a t i o n o n h o s t i n g a p r i v a t e p a r t y , b i r t h d a y o r f u n d r a i s e r w i t h u s . E m a i l s h o p @ m a d e i n a l x . c o m .

S H O P S M A L L , S H O P L O C A L

Spirit Catching the Aloha

As hula dancers undulate to the sounds of the rolling surf and a ukulele, a burntorange sun melts into the horizon. Palm fronds sway on cue in the breeze. It’s heavenly Hawaii.

About 24 hours earlier, we were waking up in the dark and parking in a far-off lot to catch an early morning flight from Dulles to Honolulu and then Maui. Now, we are being led to our table at Huihui, a restaurant on Kaanapali Beach in Maui. It was definitely worth all the effort!

Kaanapali Beach

The aloha spirit is alive and well at the Kaanapali Beach Hotel, which is about a 40-minute drive from the Maui airport and sits right on the beach. During our stay, everyone working there was courteous and seemed happy to work there. Checkin was easy, and we were up in our top-floor room in the renovated section of the hotel in no time. (The hotel had a $75 million renovation during the pandemic.) Our view from the balcony was nothing but pool, palm trees and the surf. If you plan to stay here, ask for a room on the

top floor and in the renovated section. We were not disappointed.

Huihui is the hotel’s new restaurant right on the beach that was recently ranked as the number one new restaurant for 2022 by Hawaii Magazine. It was our go-to for several meals and is a lovely place to start your day.

Some of the “can’t miss” activities we enjoyed while in Maui included scuba diving, snorkeling, taking the road to Hana, visiting a town called Paia and of course watching the sunset, going for walks on the beach and trying out some great restaurants.

We used Lahaina Divers, about a four-mile drive from the hotel for two scuba trips — one to Five Caves at Makena Landing Beach Park and the other to Cathedrals near the privately owned island of Lanai. There, we saw sea turtles, dolphins and black and white-tipped sharks. Lahaina Divers does everything by the book; their dive masters were thorough, knew what they were doing and made the trips fun.

Pointers for getting there

There are ways to make that long trek to Hawaii easier.

• Whatever airline you decide to fly on (we flew on United), make sure you’re a member of their loyalty program so you can accrue points.

• Add your TSA PreCheck number to the airline program so it will automatically be added to your reservation.

• If your luggage doesn’t lock, purchase a TSA-approved lock.

• Differentiate your luggage with bright name tags.

• Before heading to the airport, bring an empty water bottle you can fill up at one of the water stations near your gate.

• Bring snacks and a wrap/poncho for catnaps on the flight.

• Find out if your flight will have entertainment; it makes the time fly.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARY ANN BARTON

The sun sets near Poipu Beach in Kauai

I went on my first snorkeling trip at Honolua Bay, about a 15-minute drive from the Kaanapali Hotel. We purchased a snorkeling kit at Lahaina Divers. Parking is difficult at Honolua Bay, but you might luck out with a parking space just outside the path to the rocky beach. Take some sort of water shoes to help get you across the rocks. It was a wonderful experience, I saw an eel and small colorful fish.

The road to Hana is more about the journey — the winding, twisting roads and amazing views — than the destination. You’ll want to be sure to stop at Maui’s Garden of Eden on the way. Even on a day that started out rainy, it was very busy. Once you’ve parked though, hiking the grounds isn’t crowded at all. After we reached Hana, instead of turning around to go back the way we came, we decided to head east, around the island. This particular area looks like you’re on the other side of the moon. Herds of cows

meander across the roadway and it’s also where we got a flat tire after hitting a lava rock, right in front of an abandoned house straight out of a scary movie. Luckily, we had the tire changed in no time and limped back to the airport 50 miles to trade in our rental.

Visiting Paia is another must. It’s a small town where you can get a shave ice at a place called Ululani’s and then stroll around looking in shop windows and stopping in at any of several art galleries. Paia is near what turned out to be our favorite restaurant on the trip, Mama’s Fish House. It’s a family-run place where the patriarch lives next door (his wife, “mama,” Doris Christenson, passed away last year). We learned not to show up early before our reservation. Valet parking is mandatory and they can only accommodate you a few minutes before your scheduled arrival. If you can, request a booth that looks out on the water.

After a week in Maui, we took a short flight to Kauai, where we stayed at Koloa Landing Resort in Poipu, about a 10mile drive from the airport. The island is noticeably more green and lush than Maui. Koloa Landing’s sprawling pool is full of nooks and crannies — waterfalls, slides, hot tubs. The hotel is not right on the beach, but we found a beautiful spot to watch the sunset by heading toward the water and making a left toward the Sheraton just down the road. On a grassy spot looking out to the water, a small crowd gathers each night to take it all in. Lava’s on Poipu Beach at the Sheraton is a nice place to get dinner and watch the sunset. There is a more upscale restaurant on the property as well, RumFire, which was closed the night we stopped by.

Be sure to make time to visit the McBryde & Allerton Gardens, National Tropical Botanical Garden, 4425 Lawai Road. It’s a small guided tour that begins on a bus and takes several hours. The property is filled with amazing flowers and trees, including huge trees that were the backdrop for filming of “Jurassic Park.” We took a tour that included a boxed dinner, dining at the beachfront home where Robert Allerton had lived with John Gregg, who designed the home. Allerton purchased the property in 1938 and was

Koloa Landing Resort view in Kauai

Morton Bay Fig Tree at Allerton Gardens

responsible for the design and layout of the gardens.

Our most memorable dining experience in Kauai was at Beach House, near our hotel. The place sits right on the water and is a magnet for weddings. We sat practically ringside watching a wedding unfold from our table. The food, ambiance and service were superb.

After a winding driving tour and stops to check out Waimea Canyon in Kauai, we stopped at a hole in the wall spot for a quick lunch, The Shrimp Station. You’ll eat on a paper plate at a picnic table but it was great.

In Kauai we made reservations for scuba

diving with Seasport Divers which was just down the road from Koloa Landing. They have morning and afternoon dives and the dive from their boat didn’t disappoint with views of dolphins, sea turtles, an Eagle ray and more.

It’s a trip of a lifetime and we hope you’ll add it to your vacation list soon. Aloha!

Great dining options in Maui and Kauai

Tip: Make reservations at restaurants you want to try as soon as you firm up your travel plans.

• Beach House Restaurant, Kauai; beautiful restaurant right on the water. Lots of waterfront weddings take place here.

• Huihui, Kāanapali Beach Hotel, 2525 Kāanapali Parkway, Lahaina. Go at sunset, when you can hear live music and watch hula dancing.

• Lahaina Fish Company, 831 Front St., Lahaina - another great place to watch the sunset — ask for a table near the water.

• Mala Ocean Tavern, 1307 Front St. in Lahaina - try the purple Taro Sweet Bread with Honey butter, it’s amazing. Delicious seafood.

Another great spot for coffee lovers is a tour of Kauai Coffee Company, 870 Halewili Road. We got some coffee there to take back home to friends and family and you get to sample their coffees.

We traveled to Maui and Kauai in August and the weather was fine. We experienced maybe two half-days of rain the entire trip (and were rewarded on our final day in Maui with a double rainbow). We were worried there would be large crowds of tourists but the only place we experienced “overcrowding” was on the walkway near Kaanapali Beach, and even there you have the option to just hit the beach instead of the boardwalk.

• Mama’s Fish House, 799 Poho Place, Paia; this was our favorite restaurant. Celebrating its 50th year, it has a great ambiance with a view of the water, impeccable yet “not stuffy” service and delicious and well-presented food. Just be aware it’s very pricey.

• Matteo’s Osteria, 161 Wailea Ike Place, Wailea; if you’re looking for an alternative to seafood for a night and love Italian food, you’ll want to make a stop here. Delicious food, friendly waiters and a lively setting. Popular with locals and tourists alike.

• The Shrimp Station, 9652 Kaumualii Hwy. in Kauai. This seafood shack is a great place to stop after touring Waimea Canyon.

Maui's Garden of Eden on the Road to Hana

Mala Ocean Tavern in Lahaina, Maui

Huntley Meadows: A Haven for Wildlife, Photographers

BY MARY ANN BARTON

Forests, wetlands and flowerdotted meadows greet visitors to Huntley Meadows at 3701 Lockheed Blvd., just south of Alexandria in Fairfax County.

Huntley Meadows, all 1,452 acres of it, is the largest park operated by the Fairfax County Park Authority. The park features a visitor center, a beaver-created wetland with boardwalk, wildlife observation plat forms and an interpretative trail system.

The park is home to abundant wildlife and is known for attracting birds, amphibians and plants considered less common in the area. Forests, native grass and wildflower meadows surround the wetlands. The main bodies of water that flow through the park are Dogue Cree, Barnyard Run and the headwaters of Little Hunting Creek.

The park is a magnet for wildlife and wild life photographers who have created their own Facebook page where they chat, swap tips and of course, their amazing photos.

Local photographer Mac Mirabile, who works at the World Wildlife Fund, is part of the group. He first discovered the park in 2015, when he came along with a group of about a dozen other photographers who were part of the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup Group.

“I remember going out to Huntley Meadows at dawn in summer 2018,” he said, recalling one of his more memorable shoots, “being the only one yet at the park and being overwhelmed by the sounds of nature. As I walked slowly along the boardwalk I heard a ruffling nearby and got down on my knees to see a green heron moving stealthily among the plant life. I grabbed my camera and focused on it in

the dim light, snapped a few photos and then it darted its long neck into the water briefly and retrieved a frog!”

Another local photographer, Charles Schmidt, first heard about the park from a friend who lives near it. He likes to arrive between sunrise and 10 a.m. “Animals and birds seem more active and it’s less crowd ed,” he said.

In these days of iPhone photos, Mirabile and his compadres usually use something a little more complicated. He uses a Nikon Z6 mirrorless camera with a Sigma 500 f4 Sport lens (and typically uses a 1.4X teleconverter for extra range), he noted. The Nikon Z6 is a full frame camera which when paired with a fast bright telephoto lens allows him to photograph at dawn when the wildlife and birds are more active (and there are fewer other photographers around).

For novice photographers, he said it’s best to learn about the wildlife you are interested in to anticipate their behav ior. “Compositionally, try to get as low as possible, which will extend the background from your subject and give a pleasing subject separation,” he advised. Another tip: Be prepared to wait (and wait) for action, which can be fast and fleeting. And spend time processing your photos after your photoshoot and pay attention to what settings (ISO, shutter speed, F-stop) worked well in what situations and what didn’t.

PHOTO BY CHARLES SCHMIDT

PHOTO BY CHARLES SCHMIDT

PHOTO BY ANN SIEGAL

Schmidt notes that above all else, “be patient.”

“It has taken me hours of waiting to get most of my favorite images at Huntley,” he said. “The entire boardwalk and all the paths are great and something is always there to photograph. I prefer the area at the end of the boardwalk near the obser vation tower. I find the widest variety of wildlife there.”

“Finally, practice, practice, practice,” he said. “I have found photographing birds at home very useful. Setting up a bird feeder allows a photographer to practice on still subjects and more importantly birds in flight as they move to and from feeder and surrounding area.”

Alexandria photographer and writer Ann Siegal made her first trip to the park in the ‘70s. “I couldn’t believe the wildlife wonderland I’d found off of Route 1 south of Alexandria!”

One of her more memorable shoots involved a beaver. “On an 18-degree day a few years ago, I popped by in the afternoon to see what Huntley Meadows looked like with the ponds frozen over,” she said. “I heard a cracking sound and was soon

face-to-face with a huge beaver coming out onto the ice and waddling around for about 30 minutes. Just me and the beav! A truly unique experience! My camera and I were so happy.”

Taking photos at Huntley Meadows never gets old. Mirabile is still on the prowl for photos he hasn’t quite gotten yet.

“For a long time, I've wanted to get some

shots of osprey pulling fish out of the lake, which takes a lot of patience and even more luck,” he said. “I've gotten some of those shots recently, so now every time I visit Huntley Meadows, I hope to see river otters. I've gotten a few shots of them in the past, but they are fairly elusive in my experience.”

Schmidt also has a Huntley photo wish list. “Every year some photographers get imag es of the ducklings jumping from the nest boxes,” he said. “I would love to be there to photograph that moment.”

Siegal noted that the park is a pretty stress-free zone these days. “I always say Huntley Meadows offers a slice of the real America — people of all ages, ethnicity, backgrounds, etc. focused on sharing their love of nature. It's delightful, especially since it naturally seems to be a politics-free zone —everyone is willing to share their knowledge and offer photo tips to anyone who asks.”

On Siegal’s wish list? “Others have seen or heard coyotes in the park, but I haven't yet. That would be awesome!”

PHOTO BY MAC MIRABILE

PHOTO BY MAC MIRABILE

A Love for Animals

BY MARY ANN BARTON

76 years old," she said. "The city in 1989, gave us control." The AWLA moved to its current location, the Vola Lawson Shelter, in 2002 from Payne Street. A big misconcep tion by many is that the AWLA is fully fund ed by the city. AWLA receives about a third of their budget from the city and everything else is through fundraising.

"Even the adoption program, the city does not pay for the adoption program," Stella noted. AWLA's main fundraiser is Paws in the Park, which was held last month. "We do other fundraisers throughout the year as the need arises." COVID slowed down some fundraising activities and AWLA hopes to do more in 2023, she said.

able to keep up with demand."

While Hanley enjoys all aspects of her job, the best part is when new kittens and puppies arrive. "It never gets old," she said. "No matter how many puppies and kittens we have, we're still 'Oooh, puppies, kittens!' I love making the connection with their new families and that's the best part of my job."

Stella Hanley Executive Director Animal Welfare League of Alexandria

The lilt in her voice gives it away — Stella Hanley isn't from around here. The North ern Ireland native moved to the United States not long after college, from her job in Belfast after a company transfer. But after fostering a puppy for a friend who was a veterinarian, the software devel oper decided to change careers, going to grad school to learn how to manage a non-profit.

She adopted that foster puppy, Rupert, who is now a 17-year old senior dog, a rat terrier and dachshund mix. Hanley, executive director of the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (AWLA) lives with him in Del Ray, with her husband Michael Mulherin, an Amazon executive and Army veteran and their 7-year-old daughter, Aoife.

After her daughter was born, Hanley took on a part-time role at the AWLA after working for the animal shelter in Wash ington D.C. Working at AWLA in several positions eventually led to her becoming executive director, a position she's held for the past seven years.

She oversees an organization that has grown since its beginnings in 1946. "We're

The pandemic also impacted staffing at AWLA, as it has at many other places of business. "We've had difficulty finding staff, keeping staff, we've had outages due to COVID and trying to maintain our customer service and animal care has been very very challenging," Hanley said.

In addition to staffing challenges, city residents are in need of pet food, supplies and vaccinations, she noted. "People are reaching out to us. We redistribute most of the donations we receive. We haven't been

About 50 percent of the animals at the shel ter come in as strays or are "surrenders" from another city. "The other 50 percent are from areas that don't have as many resources as we do," she noted. AWLA receives animals from other areas including West Virginia and as far away as the Miami Dade shelter in Florida. "Anytime we have space here, we want to make sure we fill it with an animal that needs help," she said.

More than 500 volunteers help the shelter, including fostering animals — kittens need ing to be bottle-fed; animals that are too young to be adopted; animals with special medical or behavioral needs, who are not doing well.

To learn how you can help AWLA, visit their website at alexandriaanimals.org.

What I like most about Alexandria:

"The easy access to the city, the waterfront. I really like the community and my neighbors in Del Ray. I love the small-town feel. And being in Old Town, especially during the holidays with all the lights."

Three people I'd invite to dinner:

"My mother died when I was young. Definitely she would be one. My dad, who passed away a few years ago. And Jane Goodall would be the third."

I'm most proud of:

"My daughter, Aoife. Her name comes from Irish mythology, meaning 'most fearsome warrior.'"

My favorite book is:

"I love to read. 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,' 'Lessons in Chemistry,' and 'Sea of Tranquility.'"

My favorite music: The Frames, a Dublin band.