People

Potomac Theatre Company Summons ‘Blithe Spirit’

Show opens Friday night.

This month the Potomac Theatre Company presents Noel Coward's comedy “Blithe Spirit.” The play premiered in 1941 in London and was adapted into an Oscar-winning 1945 film starring Rex Harrison. The play begins with a séance where novelist Charles Condomine hopes to gather material for his next book. During the séance the medium accidentally summons the spirit of his first wife, Elvira. Charles is the only one who can see her, and she makes things very difficult on Charles' marriage to his second wife, Ruth.

Thinking Day

Each year on Feb. 22, World Thinking Day, girls honor their sister Girl Guides and Girl Scouts by taking time to give thanks for their international friendships and remember that Girl Scouts of the USA is part of a global community

The Ballyshaner’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade

St. Patrick's Day Parade pays tribute to Vietnam veterans.

In what was perhaps the biggest turnout since its inception, Alexandria celebrated its Irish heritage March 2 and paid tribute to Vietnam Veterans in the 32nd annual St. Patrick's Day Parade. Sponsored by The Ballyshaners, the parade was founded by Pat Troy, who officially stepped down as organizer following this year's event.

How To Help

For anyone wishing to help the family of Officer Peter Laboy, the Alexandria Police Association is coordinating efforts for individuals and organizations to show support or donate to the family. “We have set up a Facebook page that will update everyone on Officer Laboy's progress and any specific requests of the family,” said APA board of directors trustee Capt. Shahram Fard.

Brownie Scouts Trained to ‘Speak for Success’

Girl Scout Troop 6974 led 21 Brownie Scouts from four different McLean troops in a training program the Seniors developed called “Speak for Success.”

Brenda Blisk Named to Top 1000 Financial Advisors

Brenda Blisk, CFP®, has been recognized by Barron’s magazine for the fifth consecutive year as one of “America's 1000 Top Financial Advisors” and in addition has landed the 23rd spot in Virginia.

Great Falls EMT Wins Basic Life Support Provider of the Year Award

Elliot Zaret is this year's recipient of the Fairfax County 2012 Basic Life Support Provider of the Year Award.

Rescued Cats and Dogs Bring Loyalty to Families

Families grow with adopted pets.

The ASPCA estimates that nationwide, somewhere between five and seven million “companion animals” wind up in shelters each year. Of that number, 60 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats are euthanized ... each year. The prominent humane organization also figures only about 20 to 30 percent of cat and dog pets were acquired from rescues and shelters.

Mount Vernon School Notes Jan. 28

School notes for Mount Vernon natives.

Saving Buddy

He first appeared on our patio several years ago, a large gray and white cat, bedraggled and hungry, sitting on a chair, waiting for a handout.

A Lesson of Love

For Kolleen Raitz of Lorton, twelve-and-a-half-year-old springer spaniel Lanny acts as more than just a lifelong friend, but as the reason she decided to pursue a career as a dog trainer. “She's special for so many reasons, but mostly because of the profound effect she has had on my life and the lessons she has taught me over the years. She is, without a doubt, the single most important thing that has ever happened to me. She has taught me everything, from patience and forgiveness to self-control and being able to believe in myself

Training a Guiding Eyes Dog

Mixed emotions of raising and letting go.

When Guiding Eyes for the Blind dropped off Saki at Bridget Kennerley’s house, they made sure to tell her what to expect from the young golden retriever on that first night. What they couldn’t tell her, however, was how different her life would be every night after.

Vercessi’s Latest Novel Highlights Local Sites

Pursuing a cold case.

Retired Navy captain and local author George Vercessi highlights the Alexandria area in his latest novel “NCIS Agent Jerzy Shore.”

Barkley Square Opens Pet Spaaah

Barkley Square Pet Spaaah has opened at the former location of Dogspaw Grooming in Falls Church.

Stearman: Helping Young and Old in Alexandria

He epitomizes spirit of volunteerism.

Lewis A. Stearman has supported Alexandria’s youth for almost 75 years. His passion for serving young people developed when, as a compassionate 16-year-old, he sent Valentine’s Day cards to patients at Children’s Hospital in Washington, D.C.

The Connection