What a news-filled week in Alexandria.
Things got off to a snowy start on Monday and Tuesday, as the city was under a winter weather advisory.
local business
Del Ray’s annual popularity contest is back, and voting is officially open for the 2021 Heart of Del Ray award.
The annual distinction is sponsored by the Del Ray Business Association, and selecting the business that represents the heart and soul of the community is determined by a vote from neighbors and customers.
Like many Alexandrians, Tonya Kemp faced a difficult 2020 early on when she lost her job in May. But out of that loss came a new project that became a new business: West End candy shop Rocket Fizz (1721 Centre Plaza).
Alexandria’s Rocket Fizz is a locally-owned franchise of the mostly-America based soda pop and candy shop chain.
Alexandria Police Participate in Honoring Fallen Capitol Police Officer — “APD participated in the memorial service for fallen U.S. Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick. Our officers rendered honors for Ofc. Sicknick, and joined the escort from the U.S. Capitol to Arlington National Cemetery. Our prayers are with his family and friends.” [Twitter]
Free COVID-19 Self-Testing Kiosks Available Around City— “Visit a Curative COVID-19 self-testing kiosk in Alexandria for a free test. Tests do not require government ID; service available in English and Spanish. Make an appointment at Curative.com. Walk up testing also available. For more info: alexandriava.gov/114730.” [Twitter]
East Coast-based pet store chain Loyal Companion is planning on opening its doors in Old Town North on Feb. 25.
“We’re a one-stop-shop for pet wellness,” Loyal Companion said on its website. “Stop by and wow your pet with our selection of toys, treats, food, supplements, expert advice and grooming all under one roof.”
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Dr. Lauren Fisher, the co-owner of Del Ray Psych and Wellness, has been elected the new president of the Del Ray Business Association.
“I am honored to be representing an amazing group of resilient, supportive, and community-oriented business owners,” Fisher said in a statement. “I look forward to helping our local businesses and community members adapt, evolve, and strengthen over this next year. In the words of Helen Keller, ‘Alone we do so little, together we can do so much.'”
Del Ray Business Association Launches ‘I Love Del Ray’ Campaign — “Now through April, you’re going to see a lot of marketing and promotion out there about all of our wonderful small businesses — both in-home and brick-and-mortar — and how we can support them through these tough upcoming winter months.” [Zebra]
How Alexandria is Celebrating Black History Month — “Join the City in celebrating #BlackHistoryMonth with special virtual events and activities throughout February, honoring the history, culture, achievements and contributions of African Americans.” [Twitter]
The Del Ray Business Association just launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Inova Alexandria Hospital.
Hospital workers are on the front line of the pandemic in the city, and the DRBA campaign is just the latest of numerous efforts to show appreciation.
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Erik Muendel wants the new ESP Tea and Coffee to be what the old Killer E.S.P. should have been.
The coffee shop at 1012 King Street was a beloved, hip hangout spot in Old Town featuring sorbet, pie and espresso, that latter from which the bistro derived its name. Behind the scenes, however, its controversial owner Rob Shelton clashed with staff who alleged inappropriate behavior toward women and minors working at the shop. The conflict culminated with the entire staff quitting in early 2020 followed by the replacement staff quitting just months later.
Buying an existing business can often be easier than starting from scratch.
The latest listings on BizBuySell show businesses for sale in and around Alexandria. Many are restaurants, which have been heavily impacted by the pandemic.
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Bread & Water Co. at the Belle View Shopping Center has decided to expand its menu with a fried chicken sandwich.
For $10 every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, customers can get a fried chicken sandwich on a homemade brioche bun, with pickles and special sauce. New $4.50 side orders include waffle fries, brownies and banana pudding.