On This Day in Alexandria History — “On Dec. 9, 1839, the first lecture program was performed at Alexandria’s newly-built center for adult learning and knowledge, The Lyceum. The Alexandria Lyceum was founded a year earlier by a group of well-educated local men with an interest in improving public educational and cultural opportunities throughout the community. In early 1839, the group joined with the Alexandria Library to construct a new home for both organizations. This historic site has also served as a Civil War hospital ward, a private residence, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Nation’s first Bicentennial Visitor’s Center.” [Historic Alexandria]
Habitat Restoration Pilot Launches at Four Mile Run — “For this pilot program, two sections along the park’s forest edge have been set aside as Habitat Restoration Areas (HRAs)—places where nature will be given space to thrive. The project will use both natural regeneration and hands-on planting to restore native plants, improve wildlife habitat, and strengthen the park’s ecosystem.” [The Zebra]
ALX Cybersecurity Startup Raises $30M — “Fast-growing Alexandria cybersecurity startup SpecterOps has raised $30 million in new funding, bringing its total raised since March to over $100 million … The company’s flagship product, BloodHound Enterprise, helps organizations defend against cyberattacks by mapping routes hackers could take to break into their computers and networking systems. That allows the organization’s cybersecurity professionals to identify vulnerabilities before they are exploited.” [Washington Business Journal]
‘Home Alone’-Themed Pop-Up Bar Opens — “If you’re a fan of the holiday film ‘Home Alone,’ you’ll want to make plans to stop by a special speakeasy at Hotel Heron in the heart of Old Town Alexandria at 699 Prince St. … Fans of the film will adore the cocktails like the Filthy Animal! (a spiced colada with housemade Coco Loco); Rockin’ Round Xmas (a bourbon drink with bourbon-infused chocolate mousse); and Keep the Change! (a mix of cinnamon-infused tequila, lime, and agave with a cinnamon-toast rim) while reveling in ‘90s nostalgia.” [Alexandria Living Magazine]
Fire Dept. Joins JH Pancake Breakfast — “Families gathered for a warm meal, conversations with neighbors, and performances by kindergarten students! The breakfast was free for all, with donations supporting the school community.” [Alexandria Fire Department/Facebook]
It’s Tuesday — Expect sunny skies and a high near 35 with calm winds turning south at 5 to 9 mph in the afternoon. Tonight, it will be mostly cloudy with a low around 30 and south winds at 8 to 10 mph. [NWS]
