Spring2ACTion, the biggest single-day fundraiser for the city’s nonprofits, is just around the corner, and so is early giving.
After raising a record-setting $2.9 million for 186 local nonprofits from 8,331 donors last year, ACT For Alexandria has, for the second-straight year, set the upcoming fundraising goal at $2.5 million. ACT also wants 10,000 donors for what will be their 14th annual fundraising bonanza.
Spring2ACTion is the main annual fundraiser for most of the participating nonprofits. The top three recipients last year were Move2Learn with $170,400, Casa Chirilagua with $167,994 and Carpenter’s Shelter with $91,938.
Spring2ACTion will run from 12 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, April 24. Early giving starts next Wednesday, April 10.
Donations can be made on www.Spring2ACTion.org, where donors can search for and donate to their preferred nonprofits.
According to ACT for Alexandria:
All donations are tax deductible and irrevocable. (Donations will not be refunded). Donors will receive a receipt for their gift. The nonprofit will receive contact information for each donor, unless the donor elects to remain anonymous. Leaderboards will add a sense of competition and excitement during the build-up and event day. Additional cash grants will be awarded to the top winners in each leaderboard category for the day:
- Nonprofits that have the Most Donors – We will award prizes based on operational budget size broken down into three categories — small – $0-$100K, medium – $100K-$500K, and large – $500K+
- Free Agent Fundraisers that have the Most Donors – these prizes will be awarded to the organization designated by the Free Agent Fundraiser
Any Alexandrian looking to register for spring classes and programs through the Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities should mark Wednesday, March 20, down in their calendar.
“Registration for spring classes and programs, beginning April 1 through mid-June, will open on Wednesday, March 20, at 9 a.m. for City residents and Friday, March 22, for non-residents,” the city said in a release.
Programs range from sports to aquatics and camps, with options for both adults and children.
People interested in participating can register either online or in person at the Lee Center Registration & Reservation Office (1108 Jefferson Street).
Registration for summer programs is also right around the corner.
“Registration for summer classes and programs, beginning mid-June through mid-August, will open on Wednesday, May 15, for residents and Friday, May 17, for non-residents,” the release said.
Peak cherry blossom season is scheduled to hit later this month, but locals don’t need to go to D.C. to see them.
Visit Alexandria compiled a list of several events planned this month around Alexandria celebrating both cherry blossoms themselves and some of the cultural context around the beautiful pink trees.
There are multiple ways to see the cherry blossoms along the Potomac River, from the Water Taxi and City Cruises to a bike rental package at Unlimited Biking (421 King Street) in Alexandria.
The Mount Purrnon Cat Cafe and Wine Bar (109 S. Alfred Street) is hosting a “Purry Blossom Weekend” with cherry blossom-themed merchandise and drinks on April 13 and 14. Admission to the cat cafe is $20 for adults or $15 for children, or $40 for a day pass. All proceeds go to helping cats find a new home.
Some events planned in Alexandria include:
Pink Torpedoes: Cherry Blossom Art in An Old Munitions Factory, March 23 to April 14, — 105 N Union Street:
Explore all three floors of Torpedo Factory Art Center, home to the nation’s largest collection of working artists’ open studios under one roof, to view a building-wide exhibition of art inspired by the iconic cherry blossoms. Participating artists will exhibit one or more unique artworks in their studio or gallery. Each artist will explore their interpretations of the cherry blossoms—culturally, colorfully and viscerally—and visitors will discover new ways of thinking about the region’s seasonal pink event. Visitors will receive a “Pink Torpedoes” building map with locations of the artwork to discover. Each studio artist in the Art Center is selected by art experts and rank among the best in the region. Artists work in front of the visitor and discuss their work on view. Visitors may shop for one-of-a-kind art inspired by the cherry blossoms, plus more.
Workshop: Cherry Blossom Candle-Making with The Burning Wic at Shop Made in VA, March 24, from 3 to 5 p.m. — 1121 King Street:
Immerse yourself in the delicate beauty of cherry blossoms during our enchanting class with The Burning Wic. Craft your own candle in a stunning Rose Gold Mercury Tumbler, infusing it with the soft allure of cherry blossoms, and the candle will captivate during the day and radiate warmth at night. This unique class not only includes an 11 oz. candle but also a car diffuser, ensuring you can carry the essence of cherry blossoms wherever you go. Come for a magical experience, creating a shimmering masterpiece that adds a touch of spring inspired by the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms to both your space and travels.
Admission: $45 per person
Special Gallery: “Japanese Inspiration” at The Athenaeum, April 4 to May 12 — The Athenaeum, 201 Prince Street
To complement Washington’s festivities celebrating the Japanese cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin, the Athenaeum Gallery is featuring the work of three local contemporary artists whose work is influenced and guided by traditional Japanese art. Sean Doonan is an illustrator whose fanciful posters are inspired by Japanese mythology, anime, video games and pop culture. David Gootnick creates lacy and delicate designs out of wood using an ancient Japanese artform called Kumiko. And Yoshiko Ratliff’s paintings are bold, but intricately detailed, representations of Japanese characters and kimonos.
Exclusive Tour: All Lit Up Like a Japanese Lantern: The Japanese Aesthetic in Frank Lloyd Wright’s Pope-Leighey House, April 6 — Woodlawn & Pope-Leighey House, 9000 Richmond Hwy
By 1941, the year Pope-Leighey House was completed, Frank Lloyd Wright had studied Japan for almost a half-century. He had become a serious collector of woodblock prints–even writing a book on the subject–and had won acclaim for his design of the Tokyo Imperial Hotel, one of the few buildings to survive the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923. On this special tour, visitors will discover how the famous American architect incorporated his love of Japanese art, architecture, and philosophy into Usonian homes, and how this East Asian influence shines in Wright’s Pope-Leighey House.
Admission is $20 for adults and $10 for students.
It’s a beautiful spring morning in Alexandria!
Today’s weather: Mostly sunny with a high of 72 degrees during the day, and cloudy with a low of 56 degrees tonight.
🚨 You need to know
Alexandria has been named one of the best places to visit, Patch first reported.
Money Magazine listed the city as a top destination, and called the city a “lux jumping-off point for D.C.-area visits.“
According to Money Magazine:
Along the King Street Mile in Old Town, you’ll find charming cobblestone streets lined with lanterns, outdoor cafes, Instagram-worthy murals and trendy bars. There’s also a vibrant art community — explore the many galleries or peek in at artists at work at the Torpedo Factory Art Center.
Other local coverage
- Custodian ‘Heart And Soul’ Of Alexandria Schools For 42 Years
Patch (Friday at 12;57 p.m.) - PHOTOS: 180 Alexandria Schoolkids Play to Sell-Out Crowd in Annual ‘Night of Stars’ Talent Show
Zebra (Monday @ 10 a.m.) - The Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar is coming to Alexandria VA this Summer
Zebra (Sunday at 2 p.m.) - Foody Newz To Look Forward to In Alexandria This April 2023
Zebra (Monday @ 8 a.m.) - Del Ray Farmers’ Market Announces Monthly Kids’ Club
Zebra (Monday at 8 a.m.)
Tweets of note
#Spring is in full bloom and so are the cherry blossoms. Now until April 16 enjoy a direct water taxi from Old Town to The Wharf development in Washington D.C. to see the blossoms in all their glory. Learn more from @AlexandriaVA: https://t.co/Xpk5SeJ5Du #ALXVActivities pic.twitter.com/L0JVFvabEQ
— AlexandriaVAGov (@AlexandriaVAGov) April 2, 2023
On this date in 1928, Alexandria legend Earl Lloyd was born. He is best remembered for breaking the NBA color barrier. We remember and honor Lloyd's legacy every day, but especially on his birthday. #ACPSBlackHistory #ACPSLegends pic.twitter.com/dFCTKJkee3
— Alexandria City Public Schools (@ACPSk12) April 3, 2023
The Alexandria Health Department is asking residents to stay up to date on vaccinations and to travel safe this spring break.
The guidance was issued in the city’s weekly COVID-19 update.
“The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones is to stay up-to-date on your vaccinations,” AHD advised. “If you will be spending time with individuals at higher risk of severe COVID-19, consider getting tested one-to-three days before you travel to see them. Monitor yourself for symptoms after you travel.”
There has been an uptick in Covid cases this month, and the number of cases is now 30,655, an increase of 89 cases since Monday (April 11), according to the Virginia Department of Health. The seven-day average of new cases is now 46.6 — up from 40.9 on Monday. The number of deaths remains unchanged at 185.
Face masks are still mandatory on public transportation, including on buses, planes and trains.
Alexandria is currently at a low COVID-19 community level according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Spring gets into full swing in Alexandria this month, and there are dozens of events around the city to get you out of the house.
Visit Alexandria has compiled a list of events this month around town, including Easter egg hunts, book signings, a film screening and musical performances.
April events in Alexandria:
- Outdoor cello concert: Listen to cellist Amit Peled at The Rectory in Old Town on April 7 (Thursday), from 5 to 6 p.m. and 6:30 to 7 p.m. Tickets cost $45 apiece for adults and $25 for children
- Book signing at Alexandria Visitor Center: Meet John Adam Wasowicz, the Author of the Old Town Mysteries, Daingerfield Island, Jones Point, Slaters Land and Roaches Run. Two book signings will be held on April9 and 10 (Saturday and Sunday) from 10:00 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Easter Egg Hunt with the Old Town Business Association: On April 9 (Saturday) from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Historic event at Carlyle House: On April 9 (Saturday), learn from costumed interpreters about how Major General Edward Braddock, Commander-in-Chief of His Majesty’s Forces in North America, landed in Alexandria in 1775. Tickets are free, and the event is from 12 to 4 p.m.
- Cherry Blossom Jubilee: On Sunday (April 10), enjoy live performance by taiko drum group Nen Daiko on the waterfront side of the Art Center, followed by an Art Center-wide exhibition of cherry blossom-inspired works by resident artists and galleries
- Outdoor vocal recital: On Thursday (April 14), Mexican soprano Judy Yannini makes her Secret Garden debut in a program of selections from vibrant zarzuelas to beloved operas, from 5 to 6 p.m. and 6:30 to 7 p.m. Tickets cost $45 apiece for adults and $25 for children
- Easter Egg Hunt at Lee-Fendall House: On April 16 and 17 (Saturday and Sunday), there will be Easter egg hunts at the historic property, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for children ages 2 to 12, $5 for accompanying adults
- Outdoor bluegrass concert: On April 21 (Thursday), listen to father-son team Ken & Brad Kolodner, from 5 to 6 p.m. and 6:30 to 7 p.m. Tickets cost $45 apiece for adults and $25 for children
- Advance screening of ‘TRASHY: a zero waste film’: The feature documentary follows its director as she tries not to throw anything away over the course of a year. The free screening at the Torpedo Factory Art Center starts at 6 p.m.
- 89th Annual Old Town Alexandria Homes & Garden Tour: The long cherished event will be held on April 23 (Saturday), from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets cost $55 apiece if bought online and $65 at the Alexandria Visitor Center to tour the Carlyle House, Lee-Fendall House, River Farm, Gunston Hall, Mount Vernon and Green Spring Gardens
- Alexandria Symphony Orchestra performance: The ASO will perform the music of Barber and Brahms at its April 23 (Saturday) concert. The event is from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. and costs $20-$85 for adults, $5 for children and $15 for students
- Rocklands BBQ meat and greet party: The April 23 (Saturday) event features School of Rock performances and local vendors
- Soul Food Saturday: On April 23 (Saturday), explore the contributions of African American innovation and tradition to American cuisine with a unique walking tour around Old Town. The event is from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and tickets cost $95 apiece
- Earth Day tree planting: Join the Alexandria City Council on April 23 (Saturday) for a tree planting on Earth Day in Old Town, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.
- History discussion on African American housing crisis in Alexandria: On April 28 (Thursday), Dr. Krystyn Moon will examine how segregationist practices impaired Alexandria’s African American residents. The event is virtual
- Old Town Alexandria Fine Art And Design Festival: On Saturday (April 30), more than 100 artisans, crafters, independent consultants and other local small businesses in John Carlyle Square
Spring2ACTion starts early giving — “Alexandria’s official Day of Giving is April 28, but early giving is open and residents are generously donating to more than 100 local nonprofit organizations.” [Alexandria Living]
Citizen group advicates to return to ward representation — “For most of its history since the early 1800s, the City of Alexandria had neighborhood-based representation on its city council. Now, a bipartisan coalition of residents is calling for a return to that type of government, arguing that ward representation would foster better service and accountability to residents.” [Alexandria Living]
Mister Kleen donates hand sanitizer dispensers to Neighborhood Health –“Mister Kleen Maintenance Company, Inc. is giving back to the community with a donation of more than 100 automatic hand sanitizer dispensers with stands to Neighborhood Health, a local nonprofit community health center that serves more than 42,000 patients in clinics across Alexandria, Arlington, and Fairfax County.” [Zebra]
Today’s weather — “Thunderstorms in the morning will give way to partly cloudy skies and gusty winds late. Storms may contain strong gusty winds. Morning high of 67F with temps falling to near 55. Winds W at 20 to 30 mph. Chance of rain 80%… Clear (in the evening). Gusty winds diminishing after midnight. Low 37F. Winds WNW at 20 to 30 mph.” [Weather.com]
New job: Bartenders — “Doyles Outpost is the newest FUN in town a uniquely designed entertainment concept featuring a mouthwatering menu, full bar, novel two level laser tag arena, the latest arcade games and the HologateTM virtual reality attraction. We are the perfect venue for your next corporate event, social gathering or birthday party.” [Indeed]
Verizon store crash suspect also suspected of crashing into D.C. apartment complex — “Following receipt of his emails, we immediately worked to increase security at the property. Unfortunately, he visited the office twice last Monday and the second visit is when he crashed his car into our lobby. After leaving The Drake, he visited a Verizon store in Virginia and crashed his car through their storefront as well.” [PoPville]
The Art League bringing back in-person classes this month — “In-person classes will start on Monday, April 5 with adherence to CDC, Alexandria Health Department and Virginia Department of Health guidelines. Over 40 classes will be offered, covering a range of art forms, including drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture, metal jewelry design, stained glass, and steel furniture design and construction.” [Patch]
April is Sexual Assault Survivor’s Month — “In April, the City will recognize Sexual Assault Awareness Month with a series of events, activities, workshops and displays to support survivors of sexual assault and engage the community in prevention efforts.” [City of Alexandria]
Today’s weather — “Sunshine and clouds mixed. High 48F. Winds NW at 15 to 25 mph. Higher wind gusts possible… Clear skies. Widespread frost likely. Low around 30F. Winds NW at 10 to 20 mph.” [Weather.com]
New job: Child care director — “Are you a natural leader who LOVES working with children? Are you passionate about working in child care and managing and inspiring a team? Are you ready to grow personally and professionally? We are seeking an awesome assistant director to join our child care team.” [Indeed]
Virginia Governor Proposes Legalizing Marijuana This Summer — “Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam proposed Wednesday moving up the legalization of simple possession of marijuana to July 1, nearly three years sooner than previously planned.” [Patch]
Lena’s Pizza opens spring dining experience — “Walking in, customers will also see green grass and butterflies.” [Zebra]
Made in ALX, Blue Room Studio launch Del Ray restaurant matchbook art competition — “Local artist Laurel Prucha Moran has created a watercolor painting of a matchbook from every independent restaurant in Alexandria’s Del Ray neighborhood — more than 30 in all. Now, Moran will put 12 of the most popular matchbook watercolor paintings, as determined by resident’s votes, on an art print that will be available for purchase only through Made in ALX.” [Alexandria Living]
Today’s weather — “Partly cloudy skies, with gusty winds developing during the afternoon. High 49F. Winds NW at 20 to 30 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph… A few clouds. Low 29F. Winds NW at 15 to 25 mph. Higher wind gusts possible.” [Weather.com]
New job: Plant obsessed cashier — “Speedy Cashier needed for our busy and bustling garden center in the heart of Alexandria. Excellent people skills and proficient computer skills a must. This is a part time to full time position including weekends, with full time during peak seasons. Plant knowledge a big plus! Come grow with us!” [Indeed]
ALIVE! will conduct another food distribution to more than 1,000 families this Saturday, and the nonprofit needs face mask donations for volunteers.
“We received a donation from Yates Dry Cleaning,” ALIVE! Executive Director Jennifer Ayers told ALXnow. “We need more. We tried to order some recently and they’re hard to get. Right now we’re still waiting on them.”
ALIVE! has given away a record 110,000 pounds of food since the COVID-19 pandemic hit Alexandria. In fact, the nonprofit is breaking all sorts of records. On April 15, ALIVE! received the top number of donations — $145,611 from 491 donors — in the annual Spring2ACTion fundraiser. The funds will be used for programming purposes, Ayers said.
“That was amazing,” Ayers said. “Our original goal was 60,000, based on what we raised last year.”
There's a lot of be thankful for this week at ALIVE! Handmade masks from Yates Dry Cleaning -PPE for volunteers and staff! And a big thank you again to @LidlUS for the amazing cold storage for our food warehouse, keeping things chill until we can get it out! pic.twitter.com/Mo5ioVxdqU
— Alive4Alexandria (@ALIVE4AlexVA) April 17, 2020
Home deliveries have also increased substantially, as ALIVE! is now delivering food every day to 500 individuals stuck at home, as opposed to an average of about 200 families before the crisis.
ALIVE! is utilizing a warehouse space provided by the city to receive all of the food from suppliers, and the pandemic has caused a few disruptions in deliveries. Inside the warehouse, no more than 10 volunteers at a time receive the food and package it, while being six feet away from each other.
“Home deliveries for today was 500, and that’s almost 600 pounds of food for just one day,” said Ann Patterson, ALIVE’s food program director. “I have enough food to do another 1,000 families this Saturday, but then we’ve got to figure out how to manage on a week-to-week and on a day-to-day type kind of basis, and you have to manage it that way because the supply chain has been disrupted.”
This Saturday’s food distribution will be held at the Leonard “Chick” Armstrong Recreation Center (23 W. Reed Ave.) and John Adams Elementary School (5651 Rayburn Avenue) from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Those receiving food are encouraged to drive to the sites and to stay in their cars. Pedestrians are asked to observe social distancing and to stay six feet away from volunteers or others.
Photo via Alive!/Facebook
