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]