Putting the Spotlight on City’s African American History
Char McCargo Bah has a passion for Alexandria’s African American history and genealogy. Through her research, speaking, and writing on this topic, she has made a lasting contribution to the city. Bah has researched and reported on the background of Alexandria’s African American Community for more than 30 years. She had a pivotal role in the publication of “African Americans of Alexandria Virginia – Beacons of Light in the Twentieth Century” (History Press, 2013), which she co-authored with four other volunteers.
Pioneering through Life’s Obstacles
One of America’s greatest assets is an enduring belief that we can all be more and achieve more. It’s this pioneering spirit and optimism that I find even among those who have little. I was reminded of this recently by a special client of Rebuilding Together Alexandria named Darrin*. He is a life-long Alexandrian with a big frame, big smile, and a big heart to match. Over the years, he worked hard as a landscaper to provide for his six children that range in age from late teens to toddler. The work took its toll on his body especially his knees. Now after several surgeries, he has limited mobility and has been forced to go on disability.
Counting the Days
In real life, murders and other crimes are not unraveled within a 60-minute television show. This is no truer than in Alexandria where the unbelievable is still incomprehensible, astounding and unresolved. Those involved with criminal investigations have difficult tasks; be assured there are no quitting times when shifts are completed.
Making a Difference in Haiti
Haiti is a naturally beautiful paradise nestled amongst the irony of extreme squalor and abject poverty. Much of its natural beauty has been destroyed by self-imposed deforestation that only intensified after the earthquake of 2010.
Obituary: Caroline Stackhouse Weiner
Caroline Stackhouse Weiner, the school counselor at St. Bernadette School in Springfield, died unexpectedly on Feb. 4 at her home in Alexandria. She was 32 years old and wife to Justin Matthew Weiner and the mother of sons Brock, 5 and Cullen, 2; and 3-week-old daughter Caroline.
Community Mourns Loss of Ruthanne Giammittorio Lodato
When John and Debbi Kelly decided it was time for their two young children to study music, there was no question that their neighbor on Ridge Road would be the family's piano teacher. What they didn't realize was just how much that teacher would become a part of their lives — and their living room.
Livingood To Keynote Friendship Firehouse Breakfast
Wilson “Bill” Livingood, Sergeant-at-Arms of the House of Representatives for 17 years until his retirement in 2011, will deliver the keynote address at the Friendship Veterans Firehouse Association annual breakfast to kick off the citywide series of events celebrating George Washington's birthday on Feb. 17.
Generations of Families To Be Honored at Gala
Senior Services of Alexandria’s Generation to Generation Gala — highlighting families in Alexandria whose dedication and passion for giving back to the community are passed down from generation to generation — will take place on Saturday, March 29 at the Hilton Alexandria Mark Center.
Fuse Box Lighting Up the Wammie Awards
Five teenagers from Alexandria up for Best New Artist at this year's Wammie awards Sunday, Feb. 16.
Among the eight acts up for new artist of the year at this year's Washington Area Music Association Wammie Awards, most won't have to worry about getting up for high school the next morning. Fuse Box, five talented musicians who discovered their love of music at a young age, have been playing together in some form or another for several years, and as a fully-fledged band for nearly four years.
Bank Makes Donation to Police Foundation
$6,500 raised for Fallen Officers Memorial.
Officials from John Marshall Bank gathered Jan. 30 to present a check for $6,500 to Alexandria Police Chief Earl Cook and Police Foundation Chairman Willem Polak to go towards the building of a Fallen Officers Memorial at APD headquarters.
Senior Housing Options
One size doesn’t fit all.
Senior Services of Alexandria’s (SSA) Feb. 12 Speaker Series is about “Senior Housing: New and Innovative Solutions.”
From a Mentor’s Perspective
My journey as a mentor began in early 2010. I felt called to become more involved in the local community and I have always had a passion for helping kids in need.
Free Seminar Addresses Heart Health
For Inova Alexandria Hospital’s Chief of Cardiac Surgery Dr. Linda Bogar, matters of the heart are a passion she shares with our patients every day of the year.
‘Ella’ has Scatitude
MetroStage production runs through March 16.
Based on the book by Lee Summers and conceived and directed by Broadway royalty Maurice Hines, “Ella” takes the audience on a musical journey through the celebrated singer’s life.
Transfer of Power in State Senate
The Virginia Senate underwent a significant transfer of power last week following the elections of Senators Jennifer Wexton (D-Loudoun) and Lynwood Lewis (D-Accomack).