Del Ray Business Association Honors Community Leaders at Annual Star Awards
By Maureen Schweers
Alexandria, VA – The Del Ray Business Association recognized outstanding community leaders and volunteers during its annual Star Awards at the organization’s holiday luncheon, celebrating individuals who have made a lasting impact on the Del Ray neighborhood.
The Del Ray Business Association presented a Lifetime Achievement Award to Jen Walker of The Jen Walker Team, honoring more than 30 years of service to the community.
“From the moment she came to Del Ray, she has invested her time, energy, and resources into making Del Ray a vibrant, welcoming place for everyone. If it wasn’t for Jen believing in our many early projects and her willingness to sponsor and volunteer for them, I believe Del Ray wouldn’t be what it is today,” said DRBA board member Gayle Reuter.
“While the Jen Walker Team has been recognized year after year as a top real estate firm, breaking all records, Jen Walker’s contributions show that leadership isn’t just about professional success — it’s about showing up for your neighbors,” said Reuter. “Whether through sponsoring events, supporting schools, or creating spaces for families to gather, she has woven herself into the fabric of Del Ray. Her efforts have made the neighborhood more connected, more joyful, and more resilient. Jen Walker embodies the very spirit of Del Ray.”
The Star Award for Business Owner of the Year was awarded to Jeff Wallingford, the owner of Taqueria Poblano – a Del Ray favorite for over 25 years.
“What truly distinguishes Jeff is his deep commitment to the Del Ray community,” Reuter said. “Whether it’s supporting local schools, nonprofits, partnering with neighborhood events, or providing a welcoming space for all, Jeff has shown that business success goes hand-in-hand with giving back.”
The Star Award for Outstanding Public Service was presented to Sgt. Matthew O’Malley of the City of Alexandria Police Department’s Homeland Security Section and Events Management Unit, in recognition of his leadership in coordinating public safety at major community events.
“None of our events would be possible without the cooperation of the Alexandria Police Department,” said DRBA President Lauren Fisher. “Whether there are 500 or 50,000 attending, they all go super smoothly. In particular, we’re grateful for his assistance with our 50th Anniversary Turkey Trot, which had record attendance.”
The Citizen of the Year Award was presented to Eva Hartman for her extensive volunteer work related to food security, urban farming, advocacy, and nonprofit collaboration. Hartman has played key roles in numerous community events, including Del Ray Dog Fest, Bands & Brews Bar Crawl, Candy Cane Bar Crawl, Well Ray, and Spring2Action.
“Eva’s volunteer work exemplifies what makes Del Ray special: connection, creativity, and collective impact,” said Fisher. “We are deeply grateful for her time, her leadership, and her unwavering commitment to building a stronger, more compassionate community. She is passionate about engaging our nonprofit partners to maximize visibility, partnership, and fundraising. ”
The Outstanding Youth Volunteer Award was presented to Sebastion Dargbe, a senior at Alexandria City High School, Key Club member, and Business & Government Academy student. Dargbe has completed more than 300 volunteer hours since August while maintaining a GPA above 3.5.
“Whenever there is a call for help, Sebastion is always the first in line to volunteer,” said Key Club adviser Patty Moran.
The Del Ray Business Association represents independently owned restaurants, retailers, and businesses in the Del Ray neighborhood of Alexandria. Learn more at www.visitdelray.com.
Del Ray Docket
Now through Feb. 11
Heart of Del Ray Nominations & Voting
visitdelray.com
What business warms your heart when you think of them? Nominations and voting for the annual Heart of Del Ray award will take place at visitdelray.com; the winner will be announced on Friday, Feb. 13.
Feb. 6-28
Lunar New Year: Year of the Horse Art Exhibit
Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue
Celebrate the Lunar New Year by exploring its traditions, stories, and cultural significance—including the dynamic symbolism of the horse in the zodiac—at Del Ray Artisans’ Lunar New Year: Year of the Horse art exhibit. Meet the curators at the exhibit’s opening reception on Friday, Feb. 6, 7 to 9 p.m.
Feb. 7, 14, 21
Del Ray Farmers’ Market
The Pat Miller Neighborhood Square, Oxford & Mount Vernon Avenues
8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
This year-round market features fruits and vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, cheeses, bread, fresh pasta, baked goods, cut flowers, and more.
Feb. 14
Del Ray Vintage & Flea Market
Mount Vernon & Bellefonte Avenues
9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Find your treasure! Shop 50+ vendors selling vintage, antique, thrift, artisan, and more. For more information, visit delrayvintageflea.com.
Feb. 14
Gustave Art & Craft Market
Gustave Jardin, 2213 Mount Vernon Avenue
9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Discover local artists and creatives and savor Gustave’s Parisian specialties in this outdoor market, sponsored by Alexandria Celebrates Women and Coldwell Banker Realtor Maureen Clyne.
Feb. 28
Del Ray Citizens Association Chili Cook-Off
Commonwealth Academy
5 to 8 p.m.
Who makes the best chili in Del Ray? Enter your best recipe (or just sample!) during this neighborhood tradition. Visit delraycitizens.org for more information and for tickets.
