Alexandria Living Magazine - March/April 2024

9 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Springtime is here! Start penciling in some fun this season with a look at our calendar of events..

BUSINESS

After the former owner decided to retire, a local resident decided to jump feet first into running a much-loved local business, Del Ray Hardware.

FOOD AND DINING

Honey wine, blended beers and spirits are on tap at these three new ventures.

FOOD AND DINING

Hotel restaurants aren't just for room service! Play tourist during cherry blossom season at some of these eateries attached to Alexandria hotels.

CIVIC LIFE

As the mayor's race heats up, we take a look at whether the role should be full-time instead of part-time and should City Council members represent specific neighborhoods?

BUSINESS

Are you a mom-and-pop business or thinking about starting a business in Alexandria? You'll want to find out about the new services offered by the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership.

TANGIER ISLAND STORY

The ferry to Tangier Island from Onancock, Va. starts May 1. Make plans now for a fun weekend getaway to this historic island in the Chesapeake Bay.

THE LAST WORD

We talk to local author Toni Andrews, who has published her first novel, "The Road to Second Chance."

PHOTO BY SAMANTHA BADEN FOR VISIT ALEXANDRIA

29 HOLLIN HILLS

The Hollin Hills neighborhood is celebrating its 75th anniversary! Local writer Glenda Booth delves into this unique place just south of the City of Alexandria.

35 NALLS PRODUCE

Local writer Linda Harvey visited with the Nalls family about the business they started in 1961 that has become a community favorite.

PHOTO BY TOD CONNELL FOR THE CIVIC ASSOCIATION OF HOLLIN HILLS (C) 2021 CAHH

PUBLISHER

Beth Lawton

EDITOR

Mary Ann Barton

ADVERTISING/EVENTS

Katherine Barton

DESIGN & ILLUSTRATION

Julianne Woehrle

SPRING INTERN

Grace Kenyon

Alexandria Living Magazine is published six times per year by Alexandria Living, LLC

©2024. 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.

PARTNER WITH US

Alexandria Living Magazine fully supports the local business community and offers several unique ways to partner with the publication.

•Sponsored articles and multimedia content on the website, in our popular email newsletters and on social media.

•Highlighted events in our events calendar, email newsletters and social media.

•Sponsored real estate listings.

•Brand awareness through online banner ads designed to boost your business.

•Contests, sweepstakes and giveaways.

To learn more about how partnering with Alexandria Living Magazine can help build your business, contact us at ads@alexandrialivingmagazine.com or call 571-232-1310.

PRESS RELEASES & TIPS

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

HOW TO SUBSCRIBE

Subscribing to Alexandria Living Magazine is easy! You can go to alexandrialivingmagazine.com/ subscribe to pay securely online by credit card, or mail a check with the subscription mailing address to Alexandria Living Magazine, 201 N. Union St. Suite 110, Alexandria, VA 22314. Subscriptions are $14.95 for one year or $24.95 for two years.

A Letter from Our Founders

Cherry blossoms, parades, home and garden tours — yes, it's springtime again in Alexandria! Welcome to our March/April issue — we've got lots to share with you in this issue, starting with our calendar of events on Page 9 which is full of fun activities that will keep you busy all season.

One of the most exciting events that takes place only every two years is the Hollin Hills House + Garden Tour. Tickets have sold out for this very popular event, but local writer Glenda Booth digs into the history and architecture of this very unique neighborhood.

Nall's Produce is a family-owned and managed garden center in Alexandria that has been going strong for decades. Local writer Linda Harvey got to know the Nalls family and found out about their special community ties. It's no wonder their business is a favorite: Pet pigs, apple butter, produce boxes, educational activities and tours are just part of the picture here (in addition to beautiful plants and flowers).

Speaking of family businesses, don't miss a story by writer Grace Kenyon about the beloved Del Ray Hardware. At one point, it appeared the longtime business might close when the previous owner retired, but a local resident jumped in with two feet and has kept the tradition alive.

A mayoral race is on in Alexandria this year and some wonder: Is there anything we can change about the city mayor's role to make it even better? Currently, our system requires only a part-time mayor. Should we have a full-time mayor? And city council members do not currently represent specific geographic segments of the city. Should they?

Looking to make some travel plans? Tangier Island is just five hours from Alexandria but feels a world away. Starting May 1, the ferry begins from Onancock to the island. To get there, you drive about four hours to Onancock (population 1,434), where you

catch the ferry for a one-hour boat ride to the island. Find out more about this Chesapeake Bay island getaway.

It's always fun checking out new restaurants. Don't skip over the eateries located at our local hotels — they're not just for tourists! We're especially interested in what's coming at the new Hotel Heron, which was previously a hotel for 45 years after opening in 1926. We re excited to find out what the views will look like from the rooftop bar opening there.

And last but not least, we talk with local author Toni Andrews about her debut novel, "The Road to Second Chance." We can't wait to give it a read.

Thanks for being a loyal reader and be sure to tell your friends and family about our magazine, website and Instagram!

See you right back here in May,

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.

KATHERINE BARTON Contributor

Kate manages advertising, social media, and event planning for Alexandria Living. She grew up in Alexandria and enjoys highlighting new creators, businesses and events on social media. Kate loves creating unique partnerships with local businesses and finding opportunities for the Alexandria Living brand to grow. If you're interested in advertising with us, email kate@alexandrialivingmagazine.com.

Linda is a freelance writer/editor who loves living in Alexandria and enjoys its smalltown feel, where there’s always a chance of six degrees of separation or less! She has called the Beverley Hills neighborhood home since 1998, raising two daughters with her husband. She enjoys volunteering with many local organizations, exploring the sites of the DMV area, and visiting her Hokie daughters. She’s still deciding if she likes pickleball more than tennis — but is game for either one.

Glenda is a freelance writer who has lived in Northern Virginia for more than 40 years covering travel, history, people and conservation for local, state and national publications.Glenda has volunteered for Earthwatch in Botswana, Greece, France, Saskatchewan (Canada) and the Galapagos Islands. A gardener, outdoors woman and lifelong learner, she lives in Fairfax County and is the mother of two grown sons.

Grace is a graduate student at the Missouri School of Journalism, where she specializes in magazine and investigative journalism. She is originally from Colorado and studied piano performance and pre-med at Wheaton College, 40 minutes outside of Chicago. She became interested in journalism while working at her college newspaper during the craziness of the COVID19 pandemic. As a reporting intern at Alexandria Living Magazine, Grace is thrilled to be living and working in Alexandria, where her fianc was born and raised.

Kim Turpin Davis built a career in public relations, starting at an esteemed advertising and PR agency in Houston. Her interest in politics led her to working on two national presidential campaigns in 1980. She then joined a bouti ue PR firm in Washington as Senior VP, managing a stable of premier clients. She pivoted into project work for a variety of clients while raising a family in Alexandria. She has also been involved in communications and fundraising for non-profit entities in Alexandria. She continues to enjoy using her skills in freelance writing.

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 Old Town North.

GLENDA BOOTH Contributor

KIM TURPIN DAVIS Contributor

LINDA HARVEY Contributor

G RACE KENYON Contributor

JULIANNE WOEHRLE Graphic Designer

SPRING 2024

Calendar of Events

March

The Power of Two Art Exhibit, Del Ray Artisans

March 1-30; opening reception March 1, 7-9 p.m.

Join fellow art patrons at the opening reception to meet the curator and the artists. The exhibit will be on display at the Colasanto Center. Gallery hours are Thursdays, noon-6 p.m., Fridays, noon-9 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays noon-6 p.m. (closed on March 31, 2024). The gallery is free, open to the public and accessible. 2704 Mount Vernon Ave.

14th Annual March150: Special Exhibition and Art Sale

March 3-30, 1-8 p.m. Fridays; 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays

Torpedo Factory Art Center’s annual special exhibition and art sale returns with proceeds going to provide free community programs at the Art Center – this year at a new location: The Gallery at Canal Center, located on the river, north of the Art Center. This new location is a hub for cultural and artistic events in Alexandria. Experience a wide variety of art from local artists who donated their art, each on an identical 10×10 wood panel. Public sales start March 2 and through the exhibition, with early sales starting the evening of the Art Party.

All works in this exhibition are priced at 150. On the final day of the exhibition, all works will be on sale for $100.

11 Canal Center

Mount Vernon Spring Wine Festival and Sunset Tour Tickets on Sale

Monday, March 4

Public tickets go on sale March 4 for the Mount Vernon Spring Wine Festival and Sunset Tour, where patrons can sample wines and enjoy live music. Festival dates are May 17, May 18 and May 19 from 6-9 p.m. Visit the Mount Vernon website for all the details!

3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway

"TWILIGHT GLOW" OIL ON CANVAS PAINTING BY CHRISTINE LASHLEY ONE OF 28 ARTISTS WHOSE WORK WILL BE FEATURED IN A 30TH ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITION AT THE PRINCIPLE GALLERY.

National Symphony Orchestra at Mount Vernon

Tuesday, March 12, 7-9 p.m.; April 9, 7-9 p.m.

Listen to members of the National Symphony Orchestra perform at the Ford Orientation Center at Mount Vernon. The hourlong concerts begin at 7 p.m. and are followed by a reception of champagne and chocolates with the musicians. Tickets are $68 per concert.

For more information visit mountvernon.org. 3600 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway

Secret Garden at the Rectory: ‘Broadway’s Best’

Thursday, March 21; two shows: 5 p.m.; 6:30 p.m.

Vocalist Susan Derry, accompanied by pianist Howard Brietbart, performs “Broadway’s Best Show Tunes” at the Secret Garden at the Rectory. Tickets are $45 or $25 for ages 12 and younger. Visit classicalmovements.com for more information.

711 Princess St.

Principle Gallery 30th Anniversary Exhibition

March 22-April 22; opening reception March 22, 6-8:30 p.m.

The Principle Gallery celebrates its 30th anniversary with an exhibition of works by

28 artists from around the world including artists Christine Lashley, Andreas Claussen and Larry Preston. The show will feature a variety of still lifes, cityscapes, landscapes and figurative works created using a range of mediums.

208 King St.

Concerts at The Birchmere

Check out some of the performances scheduled for March and April.

MARCH 4

Mac McAnally

MARCH 6

Celtic Tenors

MARCH 7

Syleena Johnson

MARCH 8

Eaglemania - The World’s Greatest Eagles Tribute Band

MARCH 9

Avery’s Sunshine

MARCH 16

Tom Rush with Matt Nakoa & Cheryl Wheeler

MARCH 22

Who’s Bad? The Ultimate Michael Jackson Experience

MARCH 24

Honoring Teddy Pendergrass with Gladys Knight & Eddie Kendricks Tributes featuring Steven DJ Fresh, Sonja & Robert T.

MARCH 27

The Zombies with Wendy Colonna

MARCH 29

Johnnie Steele & The Steele4Real Band

MARCH 30

The High Kings & Gaelic Storm at the Warner Theatre

APRIL 3

Incognito

APRIL 4

Leahy

APRIL 5-7

Average White Band “A Funk Finale Farewell Tour”

APRIL 12

Marcus Johnson

APRIL 13

Najee

APRIL 14

Leo Kottke

APRIL 18

Norman Brown

APRIL 19

A Tribute to Erykah Badu & Jill Scott preformed by Angelica Baylor

APRIL 20

Steep Canyon Rangers

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

The Ballyshaners 41st Alexandria St. Patrick's Day Parade

March 2 | 12:15 p.m.

Residents and tourists are encouraged to come early to enjoy events at one of the region’s best parades. All events are free to the public. King Street, Old Town Alexandria

Alexandria Symphony Orchestra: The Four Seasons and Brandenburg 5: Well Seasoned Brandenburgers

March 22, 7:30 p.m.

Members of the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra, led by Music Director James Ross, return to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church with a program featuring selections from the iconic masterwork The Four Seasons and a contemporary reimagining, Four Seasons Recomposed by Max Richter. Bach’s intricate Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 rounds out the program. All seating is general admission.Tickets $5 (18 and younger; $15 for students and $48 for adults).

Visit alexsym.org for more information. 228 S. Pitt St.

Little Theatre of Alexandria: Agatha Christie’s ’Murder on the Orient Express’

March 23-April 13

“Murder on the Orient Express,” published in 1934 by English writer Agatha Christie,

follows Belgian detective Hercule Poirot as he tries to solve a murder aboard the Orient Express. Adapted by Ken Ludwig, directed by Stefan Sittig and produced by Kadira Coley and Luana Bossolo. For tickets, visit thelittletheatre.com. 600 Wolfe St.

“Pink Torpedoes; Cherry Blossom Art In An Old Munitions Factory”

March 23 – April 14

Part of the National Cherry Blossom festival, visitors are encouraged to explore all three floors of the Torpedo Factory Art Center, home to the nation’s largest collection of working artists’ open studios under one roof, to view a building-wide exhibition of art inspired by the iconic Cherry Blossom.Each artist will explore their interpretations of the Cherry Blossom, cultural, colorful, and visceral. Visitors will receive a “Pink Torpedoes” building map with locations of the artwork to discover. 105 N. Union St.

Steep Canyon Rangers;

PHOTO BY JOEY SEAWELL

PHOTO BY E. MICHIO FOR VISIT ALEXANDRIA

Lee Fendall Museum & Garden Easter Egg Hunt

Saturday, March 23; Saturday, March 30

Although tickets went on sale in February, there’s no harm in checking to see if there are tickets still available for this popular event. Tickets are on the hour ( 15 for participating children between the ages of 2-12 5 for adults ages 18-plus). Activities include an egg hunt, crafts, lawn games and meeting the Easter bunny. Check the LeeFendall ouse EventBrite page for ticket availability.

614 Oronoco St.

APRIL

Arts and AI Convening

April 11

The City of Alexandria O ce of the Arts and Virginia Tech’s Institute For Creativity, Arts and Technology are planning an arts and AI convening at the Torpedo Factory Art Center of academics from top universities across the country and local Alexandrians, to include a reception and performance. This will be followed by a Virginia Tech art and technology residency at Torpedo Factory Art Center from approximately April 12 16. Visit torpedofactory.org for more information.

105 N. Union St.

River Farm Spring Garden Market

April 12 and April 13, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

The 2024 Spring Garden Market is set for April 12 and 13. The American orticultural Society’s annual market is one of River Farm’s largest fundraisers. This muchanticipated outdoor event brings together plant, seed and garden accessory retailers, as well as nature-focused artists and authors, gardening experts, food vendors and fun activities for the whole family to enjoy.

7931 E. Boulevard Dr.

Old Town Alexandria Historic Garden Week

April 20, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Hosted by the Garden Club of Alexandria and the Hunting Creek Garden Club, this easy walking tour of Old Town Alexandria features private townhomes and secluded

Pysanky Workshop at Made in ALX

March 9 | 2:00 p.m.

Learn to make Ukrainian eggs in this 2-hour beginner to intermediate workshop taught by Pysanka Artist and Instructor Stephanie Cheeseman, aka Pysanky Steph. Pysanky (PIH-san-kih) are the vibrant and traditional folk art of Ukrainian style eggs. Learn some history and symbolism and take home a Ukrainian style egg that you made yourself! A portion of proceeds

will benefit Razom for Ukraine as part of a 6-week Ukrainian fundraiser through Made in ALX with The Critical Mass, LLC and Pysanky Steph. Advance registration is required through madeinalx.com

533 Montgomery St.

gardens. Tour tickets include admission to Mount Vernon and Green Spring Gardens. Tickets are $55 at VaGardenWeek.org.

Alexandria Invitational Cheer Competition

April 20, 2-5 p.m.

Come watch your favorite local cheer teams at this annual event. To enter your team, contact Tamika Coleman at: tamika. coleman alexandriava.gov. Free admission for spectators. Alexandria City High School Gymnasium.

3330 King St.

ALX Dog Walk

April 20 | 8-11 p.m.

The Third Annual ALX Dog Walk will bring together 500 - plus adorable pooches and

countless humans for a beautiful two - mile walk down historic Union Street, returning along the Waterfront Walk to Oronoco Bay Park for a morning celebration filled with an amazing goody bag, music, bubbles, kids and dog activities, treats, a judged dog competition with prizes and lots of belly rubs Registration 25 - 30. Find out more at alxdogwalk.com.

Oronoco Bay Park, 100 Madison St.

Artist Lynn Boggess Opening Reception

April 26, 6-8:30 p.m.

Works by Lynn Boggess, a plein air landscape painter, will be on exhibit at Principle Gallery. Boggess grew up on a farm in Parkersburg, West Virginia. He received a BA in Art Education from Fairmont State College in 19 8 and an MFA

PHOTOS BY E. MICHIO FOR VISIT ALEXANDRIA

Schedule a time to chat!

in Painting from Cranbrook Academy of Art in 1980. Boggess was a professor of art at Fairmont from 1990 to 2007.

208 King St.

Mount Vernon Spring Plant and Garden Sale

April 27, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Shop for heirloom vegetables, herbs and annual flowers, plus native perennials, trees and shrubs grown in Mount Vernon’s greenhouses. Members can shop one day early on April 26 from noon to 6 p.m. A time slot must be reserved online. Rain or shine.

3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway

PNC Parkway Classic

April 28, 8 a.m.

The PNC Parkway Classic 10-mile race starts at Mount Vernon Estate and finishes at Oronoco Bay Park in Old Town Alexandria with a scenic course down the George Washington Memorial Parkway. The 5K starts and finishes at Oronoco Bay Park. Both start at 8 a.m. with a big, family-friendly celebration at Oronoco Bay Park including the kids’ dash at 10:30 a.m. Register and see the course map at parkwayclassic.com.

Historic Garden Week in Alexandria Starts April

BY KIM T. DAVIS

For 91 years, Virginians have celebrated the advent of spring at the Garden Club of Virginia’s annual Historic Garden Week home and garden tour. Offering a glimpse into some of the most remarkable homes and gardens Virginia has to offer, it is the only statewide garden tour in the nation, drawing tourists from across the country. Steeped in the deep history of the Commonwealth, the annual tour kicks off in Old Town on Saturday, April 20 and is not to be missed.

This year’s Old Town tour showcases six historic properties adorned with ex uisite floral arrangements designed and executed by blueribbon garden club members. Tickets also include admission to six historic public properties in the Alexandria area.

This year’s tour highlights include a stunning home and garden at 410 South Fairfax St. Built in 18 0, the home s owners are Lauren and

Christopher Bishop, who bought the property in 2016 from Polly Theban whose family purchased it in 1962.

“We were fortunate to know Polly and how much she cherished this home,” Lauren said. “And, when we updated it, we felt an obligation to ensure our restoration would honor the legacy of the home. It was truly a labor of love.

In 2019, the Bishops added a tasteful mudroom, kitchen and family room, in keeping with the character of the home. The living room features its original spacious 12-foot ceilings and original plaster moldings. Substantial front windows are original and restored in 2020. The basement was excavated and converted into a finished space in 2021.The home features elegant furnishings, beautiful abstract art and a charming garden filled with spring flowers.

Across the street is 41 South Fairfax Street, purchased in 1 96 by a cooper who crafted

wooden containers. The back half of the parcel featured two dwellings that were homes to free Black tenants as early as 1823. Current owners purchased the property in 2022 from the estate of Richard Simmons, president of The Washington Post. Throughout the years, owners added a kitchen, baths, flooring, lighting, slate, stone and brick patios as well as a stone wall. An early 19th-century carriage house is now a pool house. During renovations, beautiful interior brick work and exposed beams were revealed. A large magnolia and a crepe myrtle anchor the patios, where extensive new landscaping provides space for entertaining.

An Irish whiskey distiller built 213 North Fairfax Street in 1815. Current owners, Iris and Ari Karadaghi, ac uired the home in 2016, and embarked on a significant renovation and addition, resulting in 6,000 s uare feet of meticulously restored living space. The historic windows, staircases, stair railings and mantles

are of note. An addition overlooks the garden, creating a covered patio with a walled garden and a delightful half-moon fountain.

The residence on 513 Queen Street has existed for 234 years. Records from 1789 describe a one-room, one-story log and frame structure. A garden of outdoor “rooms” features a mature Kwanzan cherry and a majestic Natchez crepe myrtle, creating an intimate patio retreat in the heart of the city.

“Like most of Old Town, our home has an interesting history,” the current owner said. “The owner in 1946 allowed chickens in the house in defiance of a new law banning farm animals from being in yards, resulting in deplorable conditions within the house,” he said. “We loved the gardens, so we bought the garden and took the house." The couple unearthed a milk bottle in the garden, likely a gift left from the adjacent former dairy bottling company.

The lot at 611 Queen Street was purchased in 1803 and sold twice before William Veitch acquired it in 1807 for $250. He built a home between 1808-1810, later adding a two-story addition. In 1815, the property sold for $4,000 to William Vowell, president of the Common Council of Alexandria. In 1824, he shared honors with Mayor John Roberts when the Marquis de LaFayette visited Alexandria. Current owners Dominique and Dorn Wenninger purchased it in 2021, undertaking significant renovations. The home has an eclectic mix of artwork and furnishings from the Wenningers’ travels in Asia, South America and Africa. The garden has been replanted and the patio expanded to create, according to the owners, “a whimsical secret garden with cozy spaces and quirky corners of

interest, complete with Mexican stone carvings and an antique bench from Mexico.”

Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden is a featured property of the tour providing a look at American history through the experiences of those who lived and worked on the property for two centuries. This year, Lee-Fendall will celebrate the 50th anniversary of its opening as a house museum and garden. The newly designed garden for the Museum, which incorporated the bones of the 1850s pleasure garden created by the Cazenoves, was a bicentennial project of the Garden Clubs of Northern Virginia.

The tour also includes six public properties: Carlyle House, built in 1753; River Farm, once home to the Piscataway Native Americans and land acquired by George Washington in 1760, now home to the American Horticultural Society; George Washington’s Mount Vernon, a national treasure and historic landmark dating to 1674; Green Spring Gardens, featuring native plant gardens, a wooded stream valley with ponds, 20 thematic gardens, a historic house and a garden wall designed by acclaimed landscape designer Beatrix Farrand and Gunston Hall, home of George Mason, author of The Virginia Declaration of Rights and a 550-acre National Historic Landmark. The estate houses a Georgian mansion, c.1755, with a historic boxwood garden on the scenic Potomac River.

Tickets are $55 at www.vagardenweek.org and at the Alexandria Visitor Center, 221 King St. on tour day.

Wakefield Homes

Tell our readers a little bit about your company — how did it get started?

Wakefield omes LC began with Louis V. enuario, Sr., a West Point graduate who spent his military career with the US Army Corps of Engineers. After retiring from the Military in 1966 and spending three years in industry, Lou Sr. founded what was then called LV enuario and Associates in 1969 and began building custom homes. From there the enuario building entities grew to include enuario Const. Co., Inc. ( CC), Wakefield omes, LC, and enuario Properties, Inc. Rick joined CC in 19 9 after working two years with ughes

Aircraft with Louis Jr. joining a few years later in 1984 after working four years with Bechtel Engineering. Brothers Rick and Louis have been running the businesses solely for over twenty years.

Does Wakefield Homes build mainly in Alexandria?

Yes, our primary focus is on building single family detached homes in Fairfax County and townhomes in the City of Alexandria. You can see our builds and models throughout the Fort unt, Wellington, ybla Valley, and Mount Vernon neighborhoods, just to name a few.

What are some of the biggest design changes in homes that you've seen over the years?

From the 1980s through 2008, new homes have increased in size with open floor plans, taller ceilings, and more customized features in appliances,

flooring, and ceramic tile. From 2010 to present, house footprints are smaller with expandable space especially with fully finished basements and 3rdl evel Lofts. Open floor plans continue to be desirable, with flexibility for two home o ce spaces

What sort of trends are your customers asking for these days when it comes to building a home?

Buyers today are looking for decks and screened in porches for outdoor entertaining. There is also a shift towards fewer formal spaces, and a focus on finished basements and lofts to create additional flex spaces and home o ces. Buyers also want luxurious and gourmet kitchens and energy e ciency in the home.

What tips do you have for anyone considering building a home?

Use a local builder who has a proven track record. We encourage those

(L-r) Rick Genuario, Louis Genuario, Jr., and Arthur Genuario. Photos by SV Images

looking to build to reach out and explore our Build-On-Your-Lot program where the purchaser selects a home from our models for their own lot. Often, builders offer competitive construction to permanent loan programs for their BOYL purchasers. Our Build-On-Your-Lot program is made to help clients build their dream home, with a close working relationship with our team throughout the process.

Do you mainly work with clients before plans are even created or do you build homes and then put them on the market?

We mainly build our model homes on in-fill or subdivision lots, then sell them to prospective purchasers. Wakefield Homes LC is a Custom Production builder that customizes homes for our purchasers either prior to starting construction, or sometimes during the construction of speculative homes. We also take on projects to build custom homes, designed by architects who we know.

What is the biggest challenge your company is facing these days?

Costs and delays due to regulations and the complex permit process, di culty

in finding and purchasing buildable lots, the rising costs for labor and material, and the currently high costs of financing projects.

What is your company most proud of when it comes to your product? How is it different from other builders? We are proud of dedication to our customers and the product we produce, adding to the landscape of the community we love and live in. We do an excellent job of bringing refreshing designs to infill lots that are proportional to the neighborhood but adds positively to the revitalization to these older, yet desirable locations.

Anything else you'd like our readers to know?

With over fifty years of active involvement in building within our community, we are proud of our well earned reputation as an excellent builder in the very community we call home. We participate towards the continued improvement of the communities we build in through our well received houses and our long-standing involvement as volunteers in charitable, sports, schools and civic organizations.

This spring, we are partnering with The Patterson Group of TTR Sotheby’s International Realty to launch our latest project. We are thrilled to introduce Hybla

Valley Farms, where modern craftsmanship meets comfortable living and entertaining. Located on lots at 2804, 2800, 2784, & 2724 Boswell Avenue, Alexandria VA 22306, this collection of single-family homes is meticulously designed to provide a harmonious blend of style and functionality, each built on a half-acre lot. Each residence at Hybla Valley Farms offers spacious living areas, emphasizing an open-concept layout that seamlessly connects the gourmet kitchen to family room, well-appointed dining/living room, versatile flex spaces that can serve as o ces or playrooms, bedroom level laundry, luxurious primary suite, and two-car garage. Each host five bedrooms, four full bathrooms, one powder room, and an expansive walk-out lower level. Interior finishes feature painted kitchen cabinetry, stunning quartz countertops with tiled backsplashes, and stainless-steel appliances, with hardwood floors and elegant trim details found throughout these beautiful homes. Hybla Valley Farms is conveniently sited near local shopping, restaurants, community library, and parks.

For more information, please contact The Patterson Group at 703.310.6201 or explore the floor plans and finishes online at pattersonrealestate.com/page/ hyblavalleyfarms

Annual Plant Sale & Garden Products Marketplace at River Farm

40+ VENDORS, INCLUDING:

Plant, Seed & Gardening Accessories, Gardening Experts, Nature-focused Artists & Authors, FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! Food Vendors, Alpacas, & More!

PURCHASE TICKETS AT ahsgardening.org/sgm2024

ENTRY FEE*

$5 per individual (walkers, cyclists), or $20 per car includes parking and entry fee for all passengers.

FREE for AHS members with current membership card or current issue of The American Gardener

*Additional restrictions and exceptions apply. Visit ahsgardening.org/sgm2024 for details.

Del Ray Hardware

BY GRACE KENYON

Jay Portlance has fond childhood memories of visiting an independent hardware store in his Washington D.C. neighborhood. That is, before that store was converted to an Ace Hardware. So a few months ago, when it looked like the iconic Del Ray hardware store, Executive Lock & Key Service, would be closing, he bought it.

On Jan. 1, the store reopened as Del Ray Hardware Store under new ownership, with plans to expand their inventory and introduce updated technology to the store operations.

Portlance bought the store at 2003-B Mt. Vernon Ave. from Chris arvey in December, after Portlance’s wife read in a local publication about Harvey’s plans to retire and sell the store. Harvey had opened the store, which operated under the name of Harvey’s locksmith business, Executive Lock and Key Service, in the mid-1990s.

They talked it over for a few days and made an offer to arvey. Because they wanted to open on the first day of the new year, they had ten days to get the store up and running. Portlance renamed the store Del Ray Hardware, which is what most residents had come to call it.

Portlance has lived in the D.C. area his whole life. He grew up in Montgomery County, Md. and attended both high school and college in Washington, D.C. Now working as a Realtor, Portlance and his wife moved to Del Ray in 2019.

Your friendly neighborhood hardware store

While remodeling their home, Portlance frequented the Executive Lock and Key Service hardware shop. When the

announcement came that the shop might close if no one bought it, Portlance shared in the general anxiety of his fellow Del Ray residents. He didn’t want the shop to disappear, so he bought it. Now he’s juggling his real estate work while also running a hardware store.

“It’s one of the few things in the neighborhood that’s the only one of its kind, right?” Portlance said.

The Del Ray community would agree. Drew Dvorshak, one of four employees Portlance hired when he bought the shop, said that support from their neighbors has been effusive.

“I have probably spoken to 50 people who didn’t necessarily need anything, but they walked in here to say how happy they were that this was going to remain a hardware store and expressed thanks that we

did it for the community,” Dvorshak said.

Dvorshak, who is also a Virginia native, came onboard the day Portlance bought the shop. Like the other employees, he had reached out independently to Portlance to inquire about a job. He’s an independent hardware aficionado of sorts, having worked at several different stores during high school, college and during career transitions later in life.

e attributes his knowledge and a nity for hardware to his father and grandfather recruiting him to help with weekend projects around the house and at his grandfather’s home in rural Pennsylvania. His grandfather was an engineer on a B-1 flying fortress during World War II. Dvorshak remembers the day his grandfather, father and uncle installed electricity in his grandfather’s garage.

(L-r): Drew Dvorshak, Josh Gunter, Cassie Parker, Chris Vazquez and Jay Portlance (owner).

Authors,

“I saw firsthand what the dangers of electricity can be because the box was live when one of them turned the box on. And my grandfather didn t know and he went to grab a wrench off the box,” Dvorshak said. “It shot him across the room about six feet and he said every curse word I had ever heard. But he was OK.”

Something old, something new

For Portlance, shop management has come naturally since he had 15 years of experience bartending and managing sports bars in both D.C. and Austin, Texas before he started working in real

estate. For himself and his employees, the main challenge has been managing the store s famously eclectic inventory. They have already knocked down a wall and shortened the checkout counter, which gave them 500 s uare feet of extra space to make wider aisles that are ADAcompliant and, yes, more pet-friendly.

The store is a work in progress, but it maintains its old charm. The characteristic floor-to-ceiling pegboard is arrayed with an astonishing variety of mops, rakes, lightbulbs and those oddly specific things you might not even think to look for until you need them, like blender sealing rings. And there’s more to come in April, Portlance is planning to

expand the garden section with outdoor vegetables and herbs.

Dvorshak, for his part, thinks Portlance is exactly what the store needed an Alexandria resident with a commitment to stick around. When people come in to ask about the new owner, Portlance is usually working out on the floor, or perhaps pausing his work to offer a treat to a dog from the black bucket waiting by the door.

“I think that there is a great symbiosis here,” Dvorshak said. “With the community, you know, they love what Jay is doing. And Jay living in this neighborhood he loves doing it.”

Spirited Beginnings

New places to imbibe have opened in Alexandria.

A variety of spots for locally made honey wine, blended beers and spirits have opened — and it’s worthwhile to give these drinks a swirl.

Here’s a look at three new ventures here in Alexandria with uni ue offerings.

Negus Winery and Meadery

A new Ethiopian winery and meadery — which may be the first of its kind in the United States — is open now.

Gize Negussie, owner of Negus Winery and Meadery, opened a tasting room in late 2023. Negussie believes it is the first honey wine tasting room in the United States, conveniently located in the area that is home to the largest Ethiopian population outside of the country itself.

Every family has their own recipe of the 3000-year-old drink, once reserved for royalty and now a central feature of any Ethiopian celebration. Whenever Negussie’s mother made tej, or Ethiopian honey wine, Negussie and his siblings would race to taste the unfermented

drink before it was sealed. The wine needs to be cut off from oxygen as it ferments, but the sweet, unfermented drink, called birz, is given to kids too young for alcohol.

You can enjoy both birz and several varieties of tej at the Negus tasting room at 5509 Vine St. in Alexandria's Eisenhower West neighborhood, within walking distance of the Van Dorn Street Metro station. Guests of any age can enjoy birz in the tasting room, and they can host events with up to 100 people in their indoor-outdoor space.

Orkney Springs

Orkney Springs opened a distillery and tasting room near Del Ray.

Orkney Springs creates gluten-free vodka made from European wheat and proofed with Orkney Springs water. The distillery also offers gin.

The distillery and tasting room opened at 3125 Mount Vernon Ave. in late 2023 and drinkers can reserve tastings through the company’s website or drop by the venue.

Orkney Springs is named after a small

town in the western Shenandoah mountains, north of Harrisonburg. The distilleries items are created with mountain spring water from the Orkney Spring itself.

Founded in 2019 (in Springfield), Orkney Springs Distillery "was founded to create craft distilled spirits that are best in class and truly remarkable," according to the company's website. The Alexandria tasting room and store opened in late 2023. For more information, visit orkneyspringsdistillery.com.

Mieza Blendery

Also open for tastings is Mieza Blendery in the West End’s Eisenhower Valley.

A blendery is a special type of brewery, where, according to the owner, “the objective is to make a lot of diverse beer components, many of them may not taste good or balanced on their own, but when blended correctly result in an experience that couldn’t be achieved as a single one-off batch.”

The blendery is at 109 Clermont Ave. Learn more at miezabeer.com.

Negus Winery. Photo by Misikir T. Kabede.

More Than Room Service:

Alexandria’s ‘Hotel Restaurants’

By Mary Ann Barton

Alexandria residents and visitors alike have a vast array of restaurants to choose from, including eateries that might get overlooked — at local hotels. If you think they’re only for tourists, think again. Beautiful views, rave reviews, patio dining in warmer weather....we're excited to stop by and try one of these spots this spring. Act like you’re on vacation and drop into one of the city’s hotel restaurants during this cherry blossom season!

Chef Raphael Francois helms the kitchen at A. Lounge at Hotel AKA Alexandria. The circular bar (above) is highlighted by a cloud sculpture by Frank Gehry.

Photos courtesy of Hotel AKA Alexandria

Hummingbird at Hotel Indigo, 220 S. Union St.

Owned by Alexandrians Meshelle and Cathal Armstrong, Hummingbird Bar and Kitchen is a waterfront indoor/ outdoor eatery at Hotel Indigo, 220 S. Union St. Start with the Southern Fried Oysters with Shishito (a sometimes-hot East Asian pepper) tartar sauce. Try the signature Hummingbird cake, a Southern-style pineapple and banana cake with pecans, rum glaze and cream cheese frosting.

A. Lounge at Hotel AKA Alexandria, 625 First St.

At otel AKA Alexandria, you’ll find A. Lounge, offering a menu of classic and signature bites, wines and light bites.

The A. Lounge offers a happy hour each day from 5-7 p.m. Hours of the lounge are Sunday-Wednesday, 5-10 p.m. and Thursday-Saturday, 5-11 p.m. The 180-room hotel, which opened last year, was designed by Pierro Lissoni of Lissoni New York.

The menu is curated by Bill Chait (described in one and chef Raphael Francois, whose hotel restaurant in London earned him two Michelen stars. Decor includes artwork by photographer and artist Sabine Pigalle. An eye-popping circular bar is highlighted by large cloud light sculpture designed by Frank ehry. You’ll also find a French-inspired cafe on the main floor

serving breakfast and lunch, serving Illy coffee and pastries from Un je ne sais Quoi pastry shop in Washington, D.C.

Kiln Restaurant at Hotel Heron, 699 Prince St.

Kiln is the flagship restaurant for the new Hotel Heron opening soon in Alexandria. The name gets its name from an open hearth in the eatery. The all-day restaurant will feature beloved classics “skillfully reimagined with a contemporary twist, as well as locally inspired dishes that celebrate the best of the Chesapeake Bay and beyond.” Dishes will be “infused with open flame, smoke and char over the embers of the open-hearth grill.” Hours at the new restaurant will be 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. The hotel, located at 699 Prince St., was occupied by the George Mason Hotel from 1926 to 1971 and was most recently used as o ce space. The 134room hotel, part of the Aparium Hotel Group, will also include a rooftop bar in addition to Kiln, which will be located on the ground floor. For more information call ( 03) 662-1900.

King & Rye at The Alexandrian, 480 King St.

At King & Rye, whiskey connoisseurs can enhance the dining experience at this centrally located restaurant near Market Square in Old Town. A family-style dinner with a fixed price of 95

per person, pairs four whiskeys with biscuits, a starter, an entree and dessert. Keep an eye out for King & Rye’s fun “yappy hours” on the patio behind the restaurant, where you can bring your pup and enjoy treats and libations for you and your pooch.

Like many locations in Alexandria, there is interesting history to be found here. The hotel is where the first Union soldier, Col. Elmer Ellsworth, was killed May 24, 1861, after a fight with the secessionist innkeeper. e was the first Union soldier to die in the Civil War. The 24-year old New Yorker was killed while removing a Confederate flag from the then-Marshall House Inn.

Brabo Brasserie Restaurant; The Tasting Room, Lorien Hotel & Spa, 1600 King St.

Yelp reviewers rave about the European-inspired menus at The Tasting Room and Brabo. The most talked about menu item are the flatbreads at The Tasting Room, a casual and cozy spot that offers a smaller menu then Brabo. Brabo offers a wider array of entrees including Steak Frites, Asado Argentina, Roasted Halal Chicken, Wild Mushroom Risotto and much more.

Representing Us

BY BETH LAWTON

Alexandria is headed into another election cycle for mayor and city council, and it’s going to be a competitive race this year with several people vying for seats.

While every election cycle has different key issues — the proposed sports arena, other development and affordable housing this year — a few questions come up time and again:

Should the mayor of Alexandria be a fulltime job?

And, should Alexandria reduce or eliminate at-large council positions in favor of ward representation?

Full-Time Job, Part-Time Pay

Alexandria’s city charter set up the system that remains today: A mayor and six members at-large who serve for terms of three years. The mayor “shall be recognized as the head of the city government for all ceremonial purposes, the purposes of military law and the service of civil process.”

The mayor and council member positions in Alexandria are not full-time jobs, and while the mayor and council members are paid, none make more than $50,000 per year. In addition to council meetings and near-daily events throughout the city,

both the mayor and city council members serve on a variety of regional boards and commissions with meetings that take time and require preparation. Each mayor and city council member is allowed to have a full-time aide.

The question of whether the mayor should be a full-time job is a bit theoretical in nature, as having the mayor be o cially full time would re uire a change in the city charter and perhaps its governing structure overall. That would be a lengthy, legally complicated and di cult change.

However, Alexandria is not a 90,000-person city anymore, noted former Mayor Allison Silberberg, and a larger and still-growing city needs different services.

“That means growing needs in terms of constituent services, being responsive, being there to help, being able to listen… and carving a path forward together,”

Silberberg said.

“While we aren’t as big in population as some jurisdictions in this region, we are not tiny and all and more to the point, we have complex issues that deserve and need our careful attention, so that we are making decisions that are wise,” she said. “It would be logical to have it be full time.”

Silberberg, who was mayor from 2016 – 2019, was able to treat the position as full time and leave most of her consulting work behind. While she was vice mayor and still working in the District, Silberberg’s aide noted that it felt like Silberberg had two full-time jobs.

“For mayor, to me, it does seem to be more than full time, and that’s the way I treated it, and I was honored to serve,” Silberberg said.

Current Mayor Justin Wilson could not respond to a request for comment by the magazine’s print deadline, but Wilson, who works full time for Amtrak, has said in the past the hours are like a second full-time job.

Current councilwoman Alyia Gaskins, who is running for mayor to replace Wilson, said Alexandria's mayoral position should be a full-time position. “In fact, I think if you asked our current mayor or any

former mayor, they would say it's already a full-time job.

Current Vice Mayor Amy Jackson, who is also running for mayor, did not respond to a request for comment.

The Question of Ward Representation

The other question that comes up with every election cycle is whether it’s time to return Alexandria to ward representation (where each council member represents a different neighborhood) instead of having six at-large city council members with all council members representing the entire city.

Similar to the mayor issue, the change would be di cult to implement, and there are both potential benefits and drawbacks for residents.

Ward representation has a complicated and racially charged history in Alexandria. From 1804 to 1950 — except for a 10-year period from 1921 to 1931 — Alexandria had four to six wards.

A large part of the reason Alexandria moved to an at-large system in 1950 was to intentionally limit minority voices, according to longtime Old Town resident Michael Maibach. The move, after nearly 150 years of ward representation, was part of widespread resistance to school desegregation to ensure fewer voices from minority neighborhoods.

According to an FAQ document from the NAACP’s Legal Defense and Education Fund, “At-large methods of election are often discriminatory because they, in combination with racially polarized voting, prevent voters of color from electing their candidates of choice where they are not the majority in the jurisdiction.” (More than 56% of Alexandria residents identify as “white alone,” according to U.S. Census data.)

“Neighborhoods deserve to have a voice. This is not rocket science,” said Maibach, who has been helping lead the charge for a return to ward representation for several years.

Right now, Alexandria’s city council elections are at-large and city council candidates can live anywhere in the city. While some residents argue that this

allows them to choose from the best and brightest candidates across the city, others say at-large representation is a disservice to residents in certain neighborhoods.

The change back to ward representation would make campaigns more personal, Maibach’s group argues. Further, they say, a ward system could create more transparency and better accountability at the ballot box.

Silberberg suggested that a hybrid approach, where some city council members are ward-based and others are at-large, would be a positive move. “It would create an opportunity for those who might not have the resources to run an at-large campaign, and it would give a voice to a specific neighborhood, so that a person representing a certain area of the city could speak to what they’re hearing from their constituents.”

Gaskins was more nuanced in her approach. “I think we have to ask ourselves, ‘What is the problem we are trying to solve?" so that we can truly address the concerns of our residents,” she wrote an in email to Alexandria Living Magazine

“No two parts of our city are the same, each has its own challenges and needs, but simply switching to a ward system doesn't guarantee better, more equitable, representation; just ask some of our neighbors in surrounding jurisdictions. The best way to ensure people feel represented and heard is to elect candidates who commit to be responsive, transparent, and accountable.”

Be sure you’re signed up for Alexandria Living Magazine’s email newsletters to keep up on election news this spring and summer. You can subscribe at alexandrialivingmagazine.com/ subscribe. The primary for mayoral and city council candidates in Alexandria is in June.

MAYOR ALLISON SILBERBERG

AEDP Offers New Services to Alexandria’s Small Businesses

BY GRACE KENYON

After 30 years in the Navy, Laura Hatcher wanted an instruction booklet for civilian life. The military is like that — rules, schedules, orders — someone telling you where to be and when. But when she decided to turn her photography hobby into a job, there was no one telling her what to do. Life after military service was liberating, but overwhelming.

“We have to completely reinvent ourselves,” Hatcher said. “We’ve worn, most of us, two or three colors for 30 years, and now we’re expected to go out and get a job and get a LinkedIn profile and sell ourselves.”

Now, a big focus of Hatcher’s business is taking military ceremony photos and headshots for veterans. It’s a service for people reinventing themselves, like Hatcher did six years ago. Part of what allowed her to make this transition, however, were the services provided by the former Alexandria Small Business Development Center, or SBDC.

With the recent launch of its own small business program, the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership (AEDP) has received the torch from the Alexandria SBDC, which shuttered its local o ce and merged with the George Mason SBDC

“We have to completely reinvent ourselves."

-Laura Hatcher

(L-r): Senay Gebremedhin, Cristina Amoruso, Talia Jones and Philomena Fitzgerald. Photos by Laura Hatcher

“The reason why people come to cities like Alexandria is because they're fun, they remind us of the past, make us think of the present and the future.”

-Cristina Amoruso

in 2023. Quick to acknowledge the decades of groundwork the Alexandria SBDC laid, one remaining staff member, Philomena Fitzgerald, joined AEDP as small business program manager.

The AEDP’s expanding network of resources, which are free to Alexandria residents and businesses catering to Alexandria, are designed to help any type of small business at any stage.

“How do we integrate them more and

bring them into becoming successful entrepreneurs in the city and staying in the city?” asked Cristina Amoruso, the new director of small business and entrepreneurship. “If they're successful, we ll be successful as a city.”

Amoruso, who came to Alexandria after working to revitalize historic commercial districts in Washington, D.C., knows that the city has a unique charm that presents plentiful business opportunities.

Philomena Fitzgerald

“The reason why people come to cities like Alexandria is because they're fun, they remind us of the past, make us think of the present and the future,” Amoruso said. However, the AEDP also knows that Alexandria comes with its challenges.

“We have an amazing community that's very eager to support local, and Alexandria is so awesome and amazing, but it does come with expectations,” said Liz Bolton, vice president of strategic communications at AEDP. “You can be really successful here. But you have to be pretty savvy, I think, to serve a super savvy consumer base.”

This spring, the AEDP small business team is introducing even more programming to help business owners make informed decisions about their businesses. There will be a variety of webinars, as well as

fireside chats with guest speakers. There are resources available in English, Spanish and Amharic for every business — for profit or nonprofit, brick-and-mortar stores and services, or pop-ups. Even if residents want to start a side-hustle or sell products only online, AEDP can help figure out the best approach.

“We ll help you find what is right for you at this moment in your life,” Amoruso said. “We want to help all entrepreneurs in all walks of life.”

Suhyoon Wood has been on both the giving and receiving side of small business mentorship. Before her husband’s military job brought them to Virginia, she was running a small kombucha business in Columbus, Georgia. After the move, she approached the AEDP to figure out a way to restart her business in Alexandria,

but one thing led to another and she began working as one of their business consultants instead.

Now, Wood serves as a counselor for small business owners, with a focus on marketing, branding and social media. She helps entrepreneurs communicate their unique ideas to their consumer base, and draws from her own experience being mentored through her small business venture.

“It takes so much to run a business and own a business,” Wood said. “But I think so much of it is feeling supported and feeling understood, and having resources available to you.”

The AEDP offers practical training and coaching in many areas of running a business, which is a daunting endeavor that re uires you to be a jack-of-alltrades, Hatcher said. Sometimes the hardest thing is knowing what you don’t know. The AEDP can provide answers to your uestions, or at least help you figure out the questions you need to be asking. And the program helps you surround yourself with mentors and like minded people, something Hatcher knows well. She has been dedicated to mentoring other photographers through classes at Capital Photography Center and plans to begin working as a mentor for the AEDP program.

“You can’t do it alone. You have to surround yourself with people you aspire to be like,” Hatcher said. For the team at the AEDP, the ultimate goal is empowerment.

“Not only we're going to help you become a stronger business owner, but we're helping you believe in yourself,” Amoruso said.

If you are interested in any of the AEDP small business resources, they would love to hear from you. Visit their website, alexandriaecon.org/small-business, email smallbiz@alexandriaecon.org or call Small Business Client Services Coordinator Talia Jones at 703-652-5357.

BY GLENDA C. BOOTH ALL PHOTOS BY TOD CONNELL FOR THE CIVIC ASSOCIATION OF HOLLIN HILLS

The land was “heavily wooded and enigmatic,” wrote Charles M. Goodman, an architect, recalling his first impression of the land that has been home to the Hollin Hills community for 75 years.

“It was the kind of land homebuilders avoided,” he said, according to Hollin Hills, Community of Vision, published in 2000.

oodman, an architect likely influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright, had been recruited by developer Robert Davenport to pioneer a unique community and design its homes. Goodman envisioned Hollin

Hills as a “laboratory” for a new way of life.

Between 1946 and 1971, Hollin Hills became a wooded enclave of around 450 houses on 326 acres about two miles south of Alexandria’s southern border in Fairfax County. Davenport named it “Hollin Hills,” starting at a time when Fort Hunt Road was unpaved and Fairfax County provided few public services. The plan included winding roads, no hard curbs, gutters or sidewalks and community parks that followed streams.

Rejecting the typical suburban bulldozed terrain with a street grid street of right angles and “cookie cutter” houses that most developers championed then, the two entrepreneurs worked with the land, respecting its natural topography, drainage, slopes and trees. When Bianca Meiklejohn, an early settler, saw the wooded area of her new home, she remarked, “I thought my husband was taking me into the wildest country. There was nothing here.”

Frank Lloyd Wright had said, “Let your home appear to grow easily from its

site and shape it to sympathize with the surroundings if nature is manifest there, and if not, try and be as quiet, substantial and organic as she would have been if she had the chance.” Goodman took that approach to heart and designed houses that “fit the land,” not dominate it as was so typical of many subdivision styles then. The Hollin Hills houses are set back from the streets on irregularly shaped, onethird to one-half-acre lots sited at unique angles with vegetative screening offering privacy from neighbors.

Without fencing, each property seems to flow into the next one, making it feel like a large park. Generally, the one-level houses are on flat or low-slope lots and two-level houses on the steeper lots.

“Shaping the structure to fit the site, rather than reshaping and forcing the site to fit the structure, is a defining feature of ollin ills,” explains the community’s successful National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), 2013 listing.

The 1944 “G.I. Bill” for returning World War II service members provided eligibility for Veterans Administration housing loans with no down payment. The war effort had produced new building materials and construction methods,

which, in part, led to a housing style called “Mid-Century Modern.” The ollin ills’ NR P nomination explains, “A product of the Modern Movement, the buildings were created from standardized plans with prefabricated modular elements and window walls that unite the interior with the outdoors.” Goodman referred to the style as “contemporary.”

The houses have large, light-filled open floor plans and floor-to-ceiling windows oriented to the outdoors. Goodman made bedrooms small and closets minimal because he saw them as purely utilitarian spaces. Roofs are flat, “butterfly,” or lowsloped gables with overhanging eaves so they almost blend into the landscape horizontally. Most houses have outdoor patios and few have garages.

The houses’ walls of glass and clean, geometric lines were unsettling to some. “I first thought the house looked like chicken coops,” said Rebecca Christoffersen, a resident. “I decided subsequently that many of them still look like chicken coops, but I have grown to love chicken coops.”

ollin ills was the first planned “modern style” community made up entirely of

contemporary homes in the Washington area.

Very Green

Landscape architects Lou Bernard Voight, Eric Paepcke and Dan Kiley designed many of the individual properties’ landscapes, accenting the land’s natural features. Their intent was “to blur the boundaries between the private and the public realm, allowing the greenery to wash over the entire neighborhood, enveloping the houses in its embrace,” wrote Dennis Carmichael, a resident.

Virginia Delegate Paul Krizek, who’s still enjoying his childhood home, sees that as an asset. “I like the open architecture with loads of huge windows looking out at the rolling hills, huge trees and our yards’ borders that are mostly invisible and roll into each other. Add to that all of the parks the civic association maintains and of course, so many wonderful people who place a premium on the environment and the unique architecture.”

Another Hollin Hiller Mike McGill concurs, saying, “I just really enjoy living in and experiencing my home and looking out its big windows at all the foliage, the deer, the foxes and the birds.”

On May 4, Hollin Hills will celebrate the community’s 75th anniversary with a house and garden tour. Tickets were sold out by early January. Artists, architects and designers will be available at some homes that feature their work. The community has other traditions including a July 4th picnic, Oktoberfest, a Thanksgiving Turkey Trot, holiday caroling and a winter potluck dinner.

The name “Hollin Hills” comes from the 18th century plantation house called “Hollin Hall,” now owned by the Mount Vernon Unitarian Church nearby. George Mason gave the house to his third son, Thomson Mason.

Maintaining the Character

Over the years, many homeowners have built additions. From the outset, protective covenants have sought to ensure that changes protect the basic character of Hollin Hills. The Civic Association of Hollin Hills has a Design Review Committee (DRC) of volunteer residents who provide guidance to homeowners on proposed exterior additions and renovations and determine whether the plans are consistent with the association’s guidelines. The guidelines state, for example, “Unless specifically indicated otherwise in this document, all new construction and all alterations that affect the visual appearance of any building or structure require approval by the DRC to assure the maintenance of what the covenant refers to as ‘harmony and conformity of external design with existing structures in the subdivision.’ Exterior alterations that are not visible from the street do require DRC approval. Hollin Hills was designed holistically, and any proposed alterations must be considered in that context.”

While controversies do erupt over some proposed changes, most community residents believe the process has worked to preserve the fundamental character of the community. Roger Miller has lived in Hollin Hills since 1954. “I see the design review committee as a plus, but not everyone does,” he says, joking that some call it the “Design Rebuke Committee.”

“The community remains relatively intact and retains its historic elements due largely to the foresight and willingness of the homeowners to preserve the aesthetic of their community,” notes Fairfax County’s website.

The last section to be built, dubbed by locals as “new Hollin Hills,” has wider streets, curbs, gutters and sidewalks. Some say that for this section, completed in the early 1960s, Fairfax County o cials required wider, straight streets to accommodate large emergency vehicles.

The founding visionaries also included community parks. The largest follows Paul Spring Creek. Today, these mostly forested common areas also include Voight Memorial Park, Charles Goodman

Park, Brickelmaier Park and McCalley Park. The community has a swim club and tennis courts along Fort Hunt Road. Elisabeth Lardner and Jim Klein, who moved to the community in 1993 with two young sons, were attracted to the parks and streams where their sons could play, plus “its simplicity of housing design and the houses’ siting for privacy,” says Elisabeth.

Historic Designations

In 2013, the U.S. Department of Interior listed Hollin Hills on the National Register of Historic Places and the state on the Virginia Landmarks Register. The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors approved the Hollin Hills Historic Overlay District in 2022.

The community was eligible for the national and state listings for its architecture, community planning and development. One justification for the federal listing was “the creativity of Robert C. Davenport’s financing and the

See HOLLIN HILLS, Page 34

Introducing

Alair Alexandria

Alair Alexandria (formerly Carbon Design Build) is a full-service home design and construction company serving Alexandria and the surrounding area. Under the direction of Matt Bieschke, a 20-year veteran homebuilder, we are devoted to the design process and using cutting-edge, innovative construction methods to create functional, beautiful, and inspiring homes.

Website: alairhomes.com/alexandria Phone: 703-349-7720

Tell our readers about Alair Alexandria.

I have been building and remodeling homes in Alexandria with my wife (an architect) for almost 20 years. Last year, we joined the Alair™ network as the third o ce in the region alongside Alair Arlington and Alair Hunt Country, and the one-hundredth o ce in North America.

What makes you different from other builders?

We are invested in the communities where we build and committed to being a resource for our homeowners well after our build is finished. We focus on the relationship with our homeowners, treating them like friends and family. I’m an active

owner, and clients are surprised I am often on-site at their projects! I love to do some work myself.

Alair offers unparalleled transparency in the construction industry, which is a big reason why I joined the network. Alair’s proprietary Client Control™ platform was designed so homeowners can easily track every hour, dollar, and selection related to their projects. Our system empowers homeowners to take charge of their home construction experience and eliminates surprises.

Alair is also committed to helping build a strong community in the areas we build by supporting nonprofit partners. We raised $8,625 for ALIVE! last year, and have committed to regularly helping drive trucks and distribute food. We’ve also partnered with Stop Child Abuse Now (SCAN) of Northern Virginia and Gunston TOPSoccer.

How do you approach your designs?

As a fully custom builder, every project is uni ue, and we are flexible and adaptable to our homeowner’s needs and design preferences.

I enjoy transformational projects, the ones that greatly impact the way people live in their homes. We focus on e ciency in space planning, ensuring that the homes we build fit into the neighborhood while helping our homeowners make the best of their available square footage.

You have several homes on the Hollin Hills Tour. What excites you about building in Hollin Hills?

When my wife and I left D.C. for the suburbs in 2006, we chose Hollin Hills for the community and the unique style of the homes. Mid-century homes with open concepts, floor-to-ceiling glass, and structures nestled in the landscape are our jam. I love the challenge of incorporating modern design elements while preserving the historical landscape of the neighborhood.

What is the most important tip you can give someone considering building a custom home?

Make sure you have a comfortable, trusting relationship with your builder. Building and remodeling is a personal and emotional process; you have to trust in your relationship with your builder that when there is a problem, everyone is working together to solve it. If it doesn’t feel like a good fit from your first interactions with him/her, it probably isn’t.

Matt Bieschke. Photo by Tammy Loverdos | Showcase Photo Tours

inventiveness of oodman’s modern house designs . . . ollin ills, and the collaborative partnership of oodman and Davenport, received national acclaim and international attention as the first planned subdivision to combine novel land planning, modern house and landscape designs and a merchandising plan that required the lots and house designs to be sold separately,” states the nomination.

Mc ill wrote in the community’s newsletter, “It was Charles oodman’s

achievement, with Robert Davenport, to take his own variant of the modernist style and create a living, breathing neighborhood that still flourishes after more than half a century, accommodating additions to the original homes but retaining its mid-century modern character so well as to ualify for listing on the National Register of istoric Places.”

A Few Negatives

As for the downsides of living there, some complain that it’s not easy to walk to stores, schools and cultural events.

The 101 Fairfax Connector bus does go up and down Fort Hunt Road and to the Huntington Metro station frequently. Cliff Bernier and Kyoko Nakamura moved there in 1989. Bernier says, “The joys greatly outweigh the frustrations. There are a few: The architectural review for house modifications, while entirely necessary to preserve the historic integrity of the neighborhood, can be daunting. Floor-to-ceiling windows can lead to cold rooms and condensation on sills. Storage space is limited. Deer nibble on our azaleas and raccoons fish in our pond, but we consider these minor costs to pay for living in a park. We like feeling a part of something beautiful and historic, the diverse designs, the landscaping and additions. All these lend a sense of community, art and inclusion that is very special.”

ollin ills has received many awards over the years. “ ollin ills is one of Virginia’s most noteworthy contributions to modern architecture,” noted architectural historian Richard Guy Wilson. “ ollin ills has grown from oddball experiment into one of the most beautiful and admired modernist communities in America,” wrote Stephen Brookes, editor of the ollin ills Bulletin. Hollin Hillers agree.

Community Association of Hollin Hills hollin-hills.org

Friends of Hollin Hills FriendsofHollinHills.org

National Register of Historic Places dhr.virginia.gov/wp-content/ uploads/2018/04/029-5471-Hollin_Hills_ HD_2013_NRHP_Final.pdf

Virginia Historic Landmarks Listing, dhr.virginia.gov/historic-registers/029-5471/

Fairfax County Historic Overlay District fairfaxcounty.gov/planning-development/ historic-overlay-districts/hollin-hills

From HOLLIN HILLS, Page 32

NALLS PRODUCE & GARDEN CENTER

Farm-fresh produce, pantry goods, seasonal plants and a well-loved pig make Nalls a community fixture.

BY LINDA HARVEY

Tucked into the Franconia area of Alexandria is a place that stirs up those feelings of nostalgia when you first pull in and hear the familiar crunch of the gravel under your tires in the parking lot. You might even catch the sounds of clucking chickens when you step out, a friendly gaggle of hens and roosters that keep the resident Penny the Pig company.

You don’t have to take a long scenic car ride to get to Nalls Produce and Garden Center. It s just off the main road not far from Springfield Town Center and a relatively short drive from the highway. Its location has helped it become a community mainstay for decades for those seeking fresh produce, flowers for their gardens or even a delicious

treat during one of their Whoopie Pie Weekends.

What started out as a small farm stand on Beulah Street back in 1961, Nalls is now a bustling, thriving family-owned business that retails mostly locally sourced vegetables and fruits, seasonal plants and shrubs and a wide variety of specialty food items from other small businesses. They’re also known for crowd-pleasing annual festivals such as their autumn pumpkin patch that’s a tradition in itself.

With the anticipation of warmer days ahead and peak gardening season, Nalls is gearing up for its countdown to the first day of spring promotion — 12 Days Till Spring from March 8 -19 this year. Each day a different gardening-themed item will be deeply discounted while supplies last. Past deals have included various plants, flowers, mulch, pots and the crop share program.

These discounts are a customer favorite and Nalls devotees are always excited to hear about the surprise deal announced

each morning on social media, according to Valerie Nalls, the general manager and daughter of co-owner Cary Nalls, Sr. Despite its old-time charm, Nalls doesn’t hesitate to use new technology to reach customers, who can follow the countdown specials and other springtime events on Instagram (@nalls_produce) and FaceBook (Nalls Produce).

It’s All in the Family

Valerie enjoys telling the story about how her father, Cary, set up a roadside farm stand when he was a young kid, with the help of his grandfather. At that time, they sold excess produce from their own garden. Growing up, her dad wasn’t too fond of school, according to family lore, and he just couldn’t wait to get home and run his business.

By high school, Cary had built a permanent building on the property, which still stands as part of the front of the current main wooden structure. And he just kept expanding from there, purchasing more property, including a

part of his grandparents' land.

Cary, who still works nearly seven days a week at Nalls, was just as devoted and determined early on. e bought his first pickup truck before he had a driver’s license and had others drive him around to get produce until he could legally drive himself.

Even Valerie’s mother, Sharon, came on as bookkeeper once she married Cary, and she still handles that side of the business today as co-owner despite a divorce. Cary, Jr. runs his own landscaping business but will help out at times when needed.

Nalls was a part of Valerie’s life from the day she was born, and when she got older, she enjoyed working as a parttime cashier there through high school and college. She went to George Mason University to study business management but Nalls was always in the back of her mind. However, she never thought she’d actually get into the family business.

She changed her mind when she realized she could create a role for herself at Nalls and make a career out of it. After graduating college in 2007, she came on full-time, and since then has helped grow and expand the business. She was instrumental in creating many of their now popular events and introduced a crop-share subscription program in 2011.

Even the next generation see themselves

in the family business. Valerie’s own children, 11 and 8 years old, are looking to the future and want to open a cafe on the property and run it themselves. She laughs a bit when sharing this but her pride and love for their excitement to keep growing the business are evident.

A Community Staple

During peak season, Nalls will have about 60 staff members, which include longtime employees who work full time as well as part-time ones drawn from the surrounding community, such as retirees and generations of local teenagers getting their first paying job.

Valerie describes Nalls as a "community go-to" where customers rally behind them for their onsite events, which are, at times, fundraisers for local nonprofits. She’s found that “givers get in return” — not in a financial way, but rather in an emotionally supportive way.

“We have built an amazing community around us, with engaging and friendly customers who have shopped here for years,” she describes with affection. “They love doing things with us and even for us.”

Nalls not only raises funds for nonprofits but is willing to give back to the community through donations of pantry goods to schools for door prizes or plants for landscaping, giving talks to groups about native plants, helping with Eagle Scouts and Girl Scout projects, and providing preschool tours.

In return, customers thank them by dropping off homemade cookies for staff and showing up for events such as Pennies for Penny, which has raised thousands of dollars for the Humane Society in honor of their beloved pig’s birthday.

Another event that brings people together is their Community Apple Butter Cook — a fundraiser for Rising Hope Mission, a local organization that provides food support and other services to those in need. The all-day cook is the main event but Nalls turns the grounds into a festival

with free apple cider, apple tastings, kids crafts and family-friendly activities.

It takes an entire community to make the batches and batches of apple butter that need to be stirred constantly in a huge copper kettle over an open fire, Valerie explains. Customers can sign up for 10 minute sessions for the fundraiser — arms get tired pretty fast, she says, and having others lined up keeps the stirring going. The end product is jars and jars of apple butter for sale at the store and money raised for a good cause.

Locally Sourced Produce and Pantry Goods

Walking into Nalls’ small retail building is like stepping into a country store, with touches of farmhouse antiques here and there, along with a row of bushel baskets atop of wooden crates, each holding various produce depending on the season and that week’s deliveries from regional farms. Lining the walls are rustic shelves with a good selection of pantry goods and baked treats all sourced by local vendors or other small businesses.

For customers who are entertaining or looking for a housewarming gift, Nalls is a convenient one-stop shop, Valerie says. The array of olive oils, jams, spreads, dips, honey, peanuts, chips, and baked goods brings many customers returning again and again. Plus, longtime fans of the store know it carries certain specialty goods regularly — such as custom cookies from Alexandria’s MB Bakery with farm-themed icing, including, of course, a pink pig; or the whoopie pies in various flavors from the Country Village Bakeshop located in Dayton, Va.

Nalls is one of the retail locations for South Mountain Creamery, known for their classic glass milk bottles and delivery service to customer’s homes. But here at Nalls, you can pick up a bottle of milk any day of the week or choose from other dairy products from this Maryland farm, such as heavy cream, buttermilk, chocolate milk, ice cream, butter, cheeses and even eggnog during the holiday season.

farm fresh produce and specialty goods at Nalls is like having a farmer’s market down the road during the entire week, and not having to wait for weekends or a special day. And they’re more than happy to have this “trickle-down” impact on other small businesses by featuring products from several family-run farms and vendors in one place.

Cary has cultivated these “fruitful relationships” with orchards, nurseries and farms, with some going back 30 years and with locations in Virginia, Maryland, southern Pennsylvania and even New Jersey and Florida. Daily deliveries keep their supply of produce and other goods well stocked.

“This is where my dad shines,” Valerie describes. “He’s fun to talk to, animated and knowledgeable. He’s curated the whole network and knows when and where to get the best produce — whether it’s blueberries from a particular farm because they didn’t get a storm to where to get the best corn for the week.”

Crop Share Program

Even though Nalls is not a working farm — it doesn’t have enough land for its own crops — that doesn’t stop them from creating a Crop Share Program for customers. “It’s a great way to eat healthy and try new things,” Valerie explains.

On Fridays and Saturdays, customers

who have signed up to participate can pick up a box of pre-selected fruits and vegetables. Members of the program pay a monthly fee, choosing box pickups either two or four times each month depending on their membership.

Staff sort through that week’s produce deliveries to fill the boxes, and Nalls has found that customers like the convenience of getting healthy food along with the corresponding recipes found in each box. Many members join a private Facebook group to share cooking ideas — another way Nalls helps build community with its customers.

As the weather gets warmer and spring fully takes hold, the Crop Share boxes will feature East Coast and locally sourced produce, including leafy greens, strawberries, squash, tomatoes, corn, potatoes, cantaloupe and green onions.

Not Your Ordinary Garden Center

From the road, you can’t miss the brightcolored flowers in hanging baskets that frame the red barnyard structure. And then there are the rows and rows of plants providing an explosion of color with bold pinks, yellows, purples and various shades of green lining the gravel paths.

On any peak spring day, you’ll find customers wandering the grounds pulling Radio Flyer wagons, looking to fill them

with annuals, perennials, herbs, plants or shrubs for their gardens. The selection, from trees to houseplants, is all sourced from a network of nurseries that partner with Nalls.

This quaint rustic setting — like a slice of country life in suburbia — is not the only thing that sets Nalls apart from the typical big-box garden centers. It’s how they cultivate their collection of plants and when they provide them to customers, according to Valerie. Big-box centers tend to bring out plants too early for the season, she says. Nalls, on the other hand, supplies plants that are well-suited for the area and current conditions, plus they know what is susceptible to cold damage and want to prevent costly mistakes from happening to themselves and their customers.

Nalls also is a big proponent of native plants, which are plants that would naturally grow in this area. “A rule of thumb is that native plants have dormant roots in the winter so the plant is still alive even though its leaves above ground are brown and dead looking,” Valerie describes.

They carry a selection of native plants such as Dogwoods and Virginia Bluebells, and many varieties are now less prone to disease. She encourages customers to try native plants and describes ferns that are perfect for shaded yards and easy to care for, and she speaks highly of the White Hibiscus, with its “big, bold, beautiful

Valerie points out that shopping for

flowers” that can handle the heat and humidity even better.

Valerie acknowledges that you might find cheaper prices elsewhere, like at big-box centers, “but you won’t get the emotions and feelings like you will when you shop here, with the most friendly and knowledgeable staff. It’s a charming place that customers fall in love with.”

It’s easy to spot staff in their red Nalls T-shirts, and customers shouldn’t hesitate to ask for help when selecting plants for their space, Valerie says. Customers also can join their active FaceBook group called Budding ardeners, that’s very supportive with answering uestions and giving advice.

Nalls also posts helpful information on social media about featured plants or flowers. It’s a uick resource to learn if a plant needs full sun, its water needs and other care tips. Their posts also highlight what’s in stock, upcoming events and other plant specials year-round and many beautiful photographs of flowers, produce and some pig pix too

Pig Tales and Kid-Friendly Activities

Not many garden centers have animals and lots of kid activities, but that’s what makes Nalls special for families, Valerie says. Roosters, chickens and two pigs make up their roster of animals.

Penny, a teacup pig with black-and-white coloring, is a well-loved attraction. Now 12 years old, she stays mostly in her pen where children can spot her during a visit. She’s a friendly pig who used to wander around the grounds, but she’s more content staying put in her enclosed pen. Even the chickens no longer wander freely due to foxes in the area.

More than 400 people showed up for one of Penny’s birthday bashes despite the 100-degree heat and stifling humidity, Valerie recalls. They served strawberry cupcakes, since Penny loves strawberries, and the party featured kids’ activities and the Pennies for Penny fundraiser.

But Penny is no longer the only pig at Nalls since Arnold arrived in 2022 giant, rambunctious and full of energy. e’s made his home here since no one came forward after he was running loose around the neighborhood. They kept getting calls that it was Penny even though she was safe in her pen, and then animal control showed up, Valerie explains laughing. Arnold was eventually caught and he ended up staying at Nalls permanently.

Penny’s pig pen is the starting point for kid-friendly activities before heading to the outside Kids Club area. Ms. Laura, a former teacher, holds monthly story and crafting times, and also talks a bit about gardening. Families can sign up for the Kids Club newsletter to be alerted about upcoming activities, get fun recipes and find links to online story times. Ms. Laura also designs a seasonal take-home craft kit that can be purchased in the store.

If you’re looking to spend a beautiful day outside this spring, stop by Nalls “an endearing little shop and garden center unlike anything else in the area,” describes Valerie with affection for her family business.

Nalls Produce and Garden Center, 7310 Beulah St., Alexandria, VA; (703) 971-4068; www.nailsproduce.com; @nalls_produce.

Hours: Sunday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; MondaySaturday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Year-Round Fun at Nalls

Spring

12 Days Till Spring deep discounts on garden-themed items (March 8 -19)

Summer

Peach Weekend peaches by the case

Tomato Weekend bulk sale/10 lb. box

Summer Series a week of free content for kids

Fall/Halloween

Pumpkin Hill free festival with lots of activities, play area, pumpkins, gourds, apple cider donuts, kettle corn, picnic area

Pumpkin Wall Instagram-worthy display

Pumpkin IllumiNight free post- alloween weekend event. Carve pumpkins, then all Jack-O-Lanterns are displayed the next night.

Community Apple Butter Cook stirring the pot, apple cider, apple tasting, crafts, and activities. Donations to Rising ope Mission.

Seasonal products Order Thanksgiving turkeys, pies, pumpkins, gourds

Winter/Christmas

12 Days of Christmas special deals on items each day Candlelight Christmas caroling, ornament-making, free apple cider, and more. Donate winter clothing items for Rising ope Mission.

Stocking Stuff-a-Thon select items that fit in stocking are 20 off

Seasonal products Christmas trees, wreaths, centerpieces, poinsettias, firewood

Weekend Specials (various times)

Sour Dough Bread Weekends

Whoopie Pie Weekends

Pickle Palooza

Tantalizing Tangier Island

BY GLENDA C. BOOTH

Tangier Island Mayor James “Ooker” Estridge crabs in the summer and oysters in the winter. Crabs, oysters and water: These are the essence of life on this flat speck of land in the middle of the Chesapeake Bay, one mile wide and three miles long, four feet above sea level and home to around 400 people.

One claim to fame: It’s the soft-shell crab capital of the world.

Estridge relishes his private getaway, his crab shanty, a pelagic “man cave” sitting on pilings above the Bay’s waters.

“It’s right in town, but they can’t reach me,” he snickers, as he studies the blue crabs scooting around in rectangular metal tanks. Here, he sorts his catch, monitors their growth, waits for them to shed, prepares them for shipment – and indulges in tranquil seclusion, except for a friendly gull that often stops by for a morsel.

The mayor got the “Ooker” nickname as a boy because when he impersonated his pet rooster, people said he sounded

like the rooster. The name stuck. He started crabbing at age 5 and now harvests soft shell crabs for New York City and Crisfield markets from May to October. He’s a waterman, like many there who cherish their life on an island riddled with water and surrounded by water.

Tangier Island is a slow-paced step back in time, 16 miles from Reedville, Virginia and 13 miles from Crisfield, Maryland, where folks chug around on golf carts and effuse about their way of life. There’s no police o cer, no jail, no bank, no drugstore, no theater.

“We just make up stuff. That can beat the movie theater,” jokes a local in the town museum’s video. There are plenty of breezes, boats, gulls and oyster shells. Everyone knows everyone’s name. The grocery store had this “advertisement” of services last summer: “Anyone need a grave, deck, steps or oil drum painted, call Jack.”

The island has one grocery store with basics, an air strip, a power plant and a wastewater treatment plant. The K-12 school with eight teachers educates 40 to 50 students and graduates one to 10 a year. A doctor comes once a week most weeks. Many people keep a car in Crisfield, Maryland, and drive to Salisbury to shop. Daily ferries deliver supplies, from mail to crates of Mountain Dew to a bag of Subway sandwiches.

Tangier is the only inhabited Virginia island not connected to the mainland by a bridge. (What we know of as Tangier Island is actually three islands connected by small bridges. Much of it is tidally inundated marshland.)

What to Do There

Visitors from the mainland readily decompress by ambling along the narrow

streets, some only six to eight feet wide, chatting up friendly locals and inhaling the fresh ocean air. There are a few cars and trucks around, but the primary modes of getting around are to walk, bike or ride in a golf cart. Locals in golf carts greet disembarking visitors at the dock.

Absorbing marine and marsh life, soaking in sea breezes and watching beautiful sunsets are favored pastimes. White, pristine beaches beckon.

Paddling around the marshy land and creeks, a kayaker might happen upon a clapper rail, a chicken-like bird, hiding in the dense, marsh vegetation. Another secretive bird, the Virginia rail, is as common to islanders as a robin is to mainlanders. The rail’s “grunting” may give away its presence before its reddish bill pokes out of the cordgrass. When the tide comes in, marsh periwinkles or sea snails crawl up submerged grass stems to escape predators. Fiddler crabs scamper out of tiny holes in the mud. Some people spot dolphins and orca whales out in the Bay.

Raptors like peregrine falcons and a bounty of waterfowl rest, nest and forage in the marshes, birds like pintails, redheads, buffleheads, brants, widgeons, teals and black ducks, some all year,

some only in the winter.

The Tangier Island Museum and Interpretive Cultural Center, in a film and exhibits, honors many locals, visiting dignitaries, war heroes and yes, oystering and crabbing. English Captain John Smith explored the island in 1608 and likely encountered the Pocomoke Indians here. One exhibit acknowledges that English colonists displaced Native Americans. John Crocket and his family settled here in 1686.

The museum’s displays are fittingly hyper-local. A veterans’ wall honors islanders who served their country in the military. One exhibit applauds Spanky Kind’s 30 years of coaching basketball. Ina Parks’ stove, fueled by #1 kerosene, is displayed along with a pair of ice skates, washboards, a blanket hand-made from World War II parachutes and, of course, crabbing gear.

The museum relates notable and lessnotable historic events like these: Tangier was one of two Virginia precincts that voted not to secede from the Union as the Civil War’s start approached. During the war, a Union steamboat, the Penguin, stopped by while chasing Confederate smugglers.

See TANGIER, Page 43

Rising Water, Flooded Land

Like many coastal communities, Tangier Island is no stranger to flooding.

Rising water and island erosion is increasingly affecting the charming little community, leading to concerns about its long-term viability. Since 1850, two-thirds of the land that makes up the Tangier islands has disappeared underwater.

“It’s so bad that studies estimate if nothing is done, Tangier Island could be uninhabitable in less than 30 years,” according to travel and science reporter Tom Schaad.

Efforts to save Tangier Island started in the 1980s, when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built a nearly 1.1-mile long seawall. Those efforts have worked, but there’s much more to be done along the island’s other shorelines.

Learn more in a special report from WAVY-TV, including a video on efforts to restore the land, at bit.ly/saving-tangier-island-va.

Internet that gets you

Daniel knows you want internet that has excellent customer support without any robots answering your calls or complicated phone trees. He also knows you want your internet provider to offer fair pricing as well as give back to your community. It’s not that Daniel can read minds: it’s just that as a fellow Alexandria resident, this is exactly what he wants for himself.

Potomac’s Newest Classic Yacht Charter Set to Make Waves at Your Next Private Event

Explore DC and the Potomac underway or slipside by hosting your next bespoke event from a new perspective on a well-appointed 70’ oot c a ic motor yac t. i c a ic yacht, Sentry, built in 1977 (Hatteras Yachts) by the yacht architect Jack Hargrave for the Payson family who were actively involved in the America’s Cup Sailing Competitions.

e yac t eature a ric i tory pampering crew, and amenities serving an elevated and memorable experience for corporate clients, non rofit an in i i ua . Today, Sentry is anchored in the Occoquan region and is owned by the Case family. Robert and Cheri Case have a love for navigating the waters, observing wildlife, participating in recreational activities, and are committed to preserving the history of the region. Their company, Southern Cross Navigation, LLC was founded in December of 2022 out of

their passion for chartering and serving a bigger mission to partner with local businesses, corporates, non-profits, and most importantly individuals and organizations who want to give back to the community through charitable acts.

The yacht is well appointed with a full kitchen, salon, a large upper and lower deck, 3 private bedrooms and bathrooms, a library, and galley all lined in mahogany and teak wood throughout. All experiences are highly customizable from choosing your pick-up points, catering services, excursions, and amenities through their white glove service. Individuals and organizations are able to rent out the space for private events, book full or half day cruises, or multiday signature charters spanning the Potomac and Chesapeake Bay.

The most unique attribute of Southern Cross Navigation, LLC’s business model is the ability for the event planner or host to choose how they wish to plan the

ultimate experience. The yacht provides a unique event space either underway or dock-side, and can host an intimate or fair sized crowd depending upon the requests. Set out to sea to explore with family and friends, celebrate an engagement or mile-stone while dockside or host your most important decision makers aboard Sentry.

To begin planning your next adventure or learn how to become a local partner visit their website to learn more today at outherncrossnavigation.com.

From TANGIER, Page 40

During the War of 1812, the British built Fort Albion, mounted a cannon and based their fleet’s operations on the island. undreds of enslaved people fled to Fort Albion to be free, in exchange for serving as Colonial Marines and fighting for the British. From Tangier, the British traveled north to sack and burn Washington, D. C. In 1814, they launched from Tangier and sailed to Baltimore to attack the city.

In 1898, locals voted against the sale of li uor (the island is still o cially “dry”). In 1916, when 1,000 people lived on the island, President Woodrow Wilson visited. In 191 , people were “frozen in” for 52 days. In 194 , the island had four bathtubs and four radio telephones. In 1990, a seawall went up on the western shore.

A Unique Lingo

Tangier Islanders have a distinctive dialect. Some mainlanders say that when an islander says “high tide,” it sounds like “hoy toyed” when they say “tourist,” it sounds like “terrorist.” While linguistic experts debate the brogue’s origins, some liken it to a British Cornwall or Devon accent. For islanders, “coal oil” is

kerosene a “wheelbar” is a wheelbarrow “eye winkers” are eyelashes.

A museum poster attributed to a local resident, Sonny Forbes, advises, “Don’t make a joke of our native tongue. Our quaint ways may be misunderstood as slow, but time is abundant here and we wish it not away.”

A Crabby Place

Generation after generation of watermen have crabbed and oystered. Mayor Estridge says his father, grandfather and great grandfather were crabbers. e eagerly offers a uick blue crab gender identification tutorial: The male crab’s underside or apron looks like the Washington monument. The female’s apron is shaped like the U.S. Capitol.

Most crabbers motor out on the water before sunrise to check their crab pots, to empty, rebait and reset them. Crabbing can be harsh, backbreaking, unpredictable work in all kinds of weather.

Tangier Island crabs are so scrumptious that they merit special deliveries. Until the early 1980s, the U.S. Navy had a radar installation on the island. Locals love to tell visitors that Patuxent River Naval Air

Station pilots would helicopter over to Tangier and order crab cakes for lunch. They called en route and a Lorraine’s restaurant employee obligingly delivered these tasty crustaceans to the air strip.

Stacks upon stacks of crab pots, which are wire or metal traps, are staples of the local scenery, fitting icons for a longestablished way of life.

Survival

Climate scientists report that sea level rise is a reality, especially on Tangier Island. Since 1850, the land mass has

shrunk by 67 percent. By 2050, the island may not be habitable by people, experts predict. A 2015 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers study estimated that full protection of the island would cost $250 million to $350 million and $100 million to $200 million to relocate residents to solid ground. Local o cials are lobbying for funding for a new jetty, sea walls and other protections.

It’s “God’s Island,” as per the title of a book on the island’s history. The town museum mission is “to make people passionate about Tangier Island and the surrounding Bay.” This modest little museum and the island do not fail.

Getting, Staying There

For many, Tangier Island is a day trip destination, but it takes two or three days to thoroughly absorb the island’s beauty, tranquility, rhythms and sites,

from weathered gravesites to tiny back streets and to crab cuisine.

Lorraine’s is the main restaurant, known for crab cakes and dip. Generous platters of fried oysters, fried shrimp, flounder, clam strips and soft shells are favorites too. All seafood is fresh from the sea, of course.

The Sharon Kay III is a year-round ferry from Crisfield, Maryland. In summer, the Chesapeake Breeze departs from Reedville, Virginia, and the Steven Thomas from Crisfield.

Local outfitters offer some paddling tours, waterfowl hunting, ecotours and fishing excursions.

For ferries, lodging and other travel information, visit tangierisland-va.com.

Alexandria Author Publishes Debut Novel

BY MARY ANN BARTON

Alexandria resident Toni Andrews has just published her debut novel, “The Road to Second Chance.”

The story begins in the small town of Second Chance, West Virginia in 1962, where, "the enchanting landscape belies the poverty of a dying coal town and tragedy shatters the idyllic life of young Laney Mae Martin," the book jacket notes. When her father dies in a fatal car crash, Laney Mae's life spirals into disarray. Her bitter mother uproots Laney Mae and her brother Neal from their familiar surroundings to the D.C. suburbs.

“I open part one of the novel with the Emily Dickinson quote: ‘Hold dear to your parents for it is a scary and confusing world without them.’" In the novel, the historical backdrop goes from JFK to the terrorist attacks of 9/11.” A fictitious neighborhood called

Potomac Manor” figures into the story.

A Groveton High School (now West Potomac) grad, Andrews continues to make her home in the area. “I love the fact that my children attended high school at the same place I did,” she said.

Her love of writing goes back to grade school. “I have old report cards where teachers note my enjoyment in creating short stories,” she said.

Her favorite book growing up was “Where The Red Fern Grows.” “It had such an impact on me. It was the first book I bought myself and it inspired me to want to become a writer. For a time, I pursued journalism but always wanted to write fiction.”

I’m most proud of:

Raising and guiding two amazing young adults: my daughter Meredith and my son, John.

Three people (living or dead) I would invite to dinner are:

President John F. Kennedy, the great actor/dancer Gene Kelly and Emma atewood, the first woman to hike the Appalachian Trail at age 6

Every morning, I read:

The Washington Post. I have since I was a kid

My favorite author is:

Angie Kim (“Miracle Creek” and “Happiness Falls”). I love her. Aside from being a wonderful new literary voice, she is a wonderful human being. I met her at the Old Town Books writers conference in 2019. I kept in touch with her and when I finally finished my manuscript, I asked her: now what She connected me with a wonderful editor, Barbara Esstman (who lives in Fairfax). I would have never finished this novel without this help

My favorite meal is:

Landini’s Linguini with white clam sauce (and a gin martini to start)

My pet peeve is:

People who ridicule or demean others.

My dream is:

To see The Road to Second Chance in a film version. (I can envision Maggie yllenhaal and her brother Jake as Laney Mae and her brother Neal )

My favorite way to relax is:

Spending time with my granddaughter, Tillie (age 20 months). I also enjoy decorating.

What I like most about Alexandria is:

It’s amazing history and small-town charm. I worked at the old Port Packet Newspaper and later, at Burke & Herbert Bank for several years and love how that institution is still here and the incredible storied past it has — just like the city. Even if I live five minutes south of Old Town, Alexandria is my hometown

Welcome to the new Verstandig Pavilion at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital where you’ll find:

• 31 state-of-the-art operating rooms

• Expanded and modernized new emergency department with 32 private rooms

• Access to the most advanced treatment technologies

• 156 private patient rooms with natural, healing light Visit MedStarHealth.org/Pavilion to learn more.