By Maureen Schweers
Alexandria, VA – After the biggest turnout and the closest vote in the Heart of Del Ray history, the Del Ray Business Association presented two Heart of Del Ray awards – to The Dog Store/Your Dog’s Best Friends and The Duncan Library/Friends of Duncan Library. The annual award, given to the business or organization that represents the heart and soul of Del Ray, is determined by a public vote of neighbors and customers.
“The community made it clear that they love these businesses more than anything, so for the first year, we are going to have two Hearts of Del Ray,” said Del Ray Business Association board member Gayle Reuter.
The Dog Store fosters community among two- and four-legged friends in Del Ray by participating in community events, decorating for all the holidays, and doting on the pups in the neighborhood. “They are always friendly, helpful, and clearly love their community of dogs and humans,” read one nomination. “On walks down the Avenue, every pup must stop to get love and treats from the staff. Mine drags me in there every time!” wrote another.
One of Del Ray’s favorite “third places,” Duncan Library brings the community together with programs and resources covering a wide variety of interests and causes — and, of course, books. “It is the epitome of the heart of Del Ray. It’s a gathering place for everyone, and it embraces you the second you walk in the door,” wrote one nomination. “The library’s programming for all ages is incredible, the staff is warm and welcoming, and the Friends of the Library works so hard fundraising behind the scenes to make all the extras that make Duncan so special possible,” wrote another.
Nearly 2,000 neighbors, friends, and customers participated in online voting. Past winners of the award include A Show of Hands, Jen Walker of McEnearney Associates, Bobi Bomar Homes of Alexandria, The Neighborhood Pharmacy of Del Ray, Greener Cleaner of Del Ray, Del Ray Pizzeria, Mind the Mat Pilates & Yoga, Caboose Cafe, Del Ray Cafe, HomeGrown Restaurant Group, Taqueria Poblano, Ms. Preeti’s 7-11, Dolce & Bean, Lena’s Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap, and the Del Ray Farmers’ Market.
The Del Ray Business Association represents the independently owned restaurants, retailers, and businesses in the Del Ray neighborhood of Alexandria. For more information, go to visitdelray.com.
Del Ray Docket
Now through April 14
The Power of Two Exhibit
Del Ray Artisans, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue
The Power of Two art exhibit features any two related items in one piece of art, such as two of a kind, two complementary items, duos, twins, parents and children, and lovers.
March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Del Ray Farmers’ Market
The Pat Miller Neighborhood Square, located at the intersection of Oxford and Mount Vernon Avenue
8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
This year-round market — named one of the best in the state — features fruits and vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, cheeses, bread, fresh pasta, baked goods, cut flowers, and more.
March 9
Del Ray Vintage & Flea Market
Mount Vernon & East Bellefonte Avenue
9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Find your treasure! Visit over 50 vendors at The Wellness Junction lot at 1900 Mt. Vernon Ave., plus the Salvation Army Corps lot across the street. For more information, visit delrayvintageflea.com.
SAVE THE DATE!
April 4
First Thursday
6 p.m. to dusk
Along Mount Vernon Avenue in Del Ray
First Thursday, Del Ray’s monthly street festival, returns for its 2024 season with live music, themed activities, and more. Learn more at visitdelray.com.
April 14
Del Ray Dog Fest
George Washington Middle School, 1005 Mount Vernon Avenue
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Join us for the 2nd Annual Del Ray Dog Fest, an outdoor festival celebrating dogs, their owners, and the Del Ray community! This event includes dog-centered activities, menu items, live music, vendors, and food. Following the event, a “Yappy Hour” will be held for owners and their pets at participating restaurants. This DRBA event is sponsored by The Peele Group. For tickets, visit visitdelray.com.
ICYMI: Alexandria School Board Aproves Combined Funds Budget for FY 2025
