News

GoFundMe launched for Will Nichols, retiring manager of St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub in Del Ray

By James Cullum

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Will Nichols, the retiring general manager of St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub in Del Ray. Nichols has been a constant presence in the community since being hired in 1998, and the campaign has so far raised $5,675 out of a $10,000 goal.

The fundraiser was organized by the Del Ray Business Association.

“With the decision to move on because of his health, we, in the Del Ray community would like to show Will how much he means to us and what a difference he has made in so many lives,” DRBA said in the campaign.

St. Elmo’s owners Christine and Larry Ponzi called Nichols the”heart of Del Ray.”

“Will’s warm smile and genuine interest in you and/or your family is truly a one-of-a-kind experience,” the Ponzis said.

St. Elmo’s will also have a party for Nichols on Saturday, July 31, from 5 – 8 p.m.

Via GoFundMe

About the Author

  • Reporter James Cullum has spent nearly 20 years covering Northern Virginia. He began working with ALXnow in 2020, and has covered every story under the sun for the publication, from investigative stories to features and photo galleries. His work includes coverage of national and international situations, as well as from the White House, Capitol, Pentagon, Supreme Court and State Department. He's covered protests and riots throughout the U.S. (including the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol), in addition to earthquake-ridden Haiti, Western Sahara in North Africa and war-torn South Sudan. He has photographed presidents and other world leaders, celebrities and famous musicians, and excels under pressure.