Former City Councilman Connie Ring dies — “Carlyle Conwell “Connie” Ring, Jr., 90, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2021, at his home at Goodwin House, Alexandria, Virginia… He was an appointed member of the Alexandria School Board from 1969 to 1978, and chairman from 1976 to 1978. During this time, he was involved in the integration of public schools in Alexandria. Connie later held a seat on Alexandria’s City Council from 1979 to 1988.” [Legacy.com]
Alexandria starts pilot program to rename Confederate-named streets — “Alexandria is launching a pilot program and new process for residents to request changes to street names in the City of Alexandria.” [Alexandria Living]
The Birchmere is requiring proof of vaccination or negative COVID test — “Effective Wednesday, Aug. 25, all attendees, artists and staff will need to show proof of full COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test 72 hours before attending an event. The venue will accept three types of documentation: a physical vaccination card, digital copy of a vaccination card that matches a person’s photo ID, or negative test within the past 72 hours that matches a person’s photo ID. A physical or digital test will be accepted.” [Patch]
Brewski’s Barkhaus is celebrating National Dog Day in style — “Barkhaus opens early at 11 AM on August 26 with free puppuccinos, ‘dog beer,’ and food specials. Later, get dressed up for The Pet Gala, a ticketed event supporting the National Humane Society from 7:30 to 10PM. Black tie attire is required for all pups and humans, and tickets ($75) are on sale now.” [Washingtonian]
Alexandria firefighters to get collective bargaining training — “We’ll be running through our game plan on how we can lower holdovers, improve pay, improve working conditions, and ensure that WE the WORKERS have a seat at the table when decisions are made!” [Facebook]
Today’s weather — “Sunshine and clouds mixed (during the day). Hot and humid. High 94F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph… Partly cloudy skies (in the evening). A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low near 75F. Winds light and variable.” [Weather.com]
New job: Cannabis reviewer — “We are a DC-based start-up and cannabis review site that is rapidly growing. We are looking for cannabis connoisseurs who think they have what it takes to join our ranks as a reviewer of Virginia medical marijuana dispensary products and homegrows. This role is mostly remote but does require the ability to travel throughout one or more Virginia counties to pick-up or receive deliveries. For consideration candidates must be local to Northern Virginia and have a valid Virginia medical marijuana license.” [Indeed]
Recent Stories

St. Paul’s Episcopal Preschool, a play-based, half-day preschool in the heart of Old Town, Alexandria has limited openings for the ’23-’24 school year.
SPEP offers:
- 18 month old – Kindergarten classes
- Full day Kindergarten option (3 days/week)
- Early Care
- Transportation (ages 3+)
- Weekly Field Trips (ages 3+)
- Financial Aid available
Monarch Montessori School located in the heart of Del Ray is enrolling children 6 weeks to 6 years of age for our half day and full day program.
Our hours of operation are 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday-Friday. Monarch Montessori School is open year round, with intermittent breaks.
Children engage in self-directed, self-initiated activities under the guidance of a trained Montessori teacher. Classroom sizes range from 8-12 students. Our robust curriculum includes botany, sensorial activities, the social graces, culture, math, science, practical life, geography, music appreciation and language arts.
You’ll get half off of the registration fee when you register and begin care with us before April 30, 2023.
2023 Alexandria Scottish Rite Friends & Family Charity Event
On Saturday Evening May 6th, 2023, at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial, the Valley of Alexandria Scottish Rite will be holding its annual charity fundraiser for kids with speech and language disabilities. This event is open to the public.
Del Ray Dog Fest & Yappy Hour
The 1st Annual Del Ray Dog Fest is a fun outdoor event that will include dog-centered activities, dog menu items, live music, vendors and food on Sunday, April 2 from 11am- 3pm at the George Washington Middle School parking lot.