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Articles by Susan Sullivan
Alexandria Historian Uncovers Civil War Secrets in New Book on Union Occupation
occupied alexandria Alexandria, VA – Alexandria historian Madeline Feierstein has turned her passion for research into a career uncovering forgotten stories of people and places. Her new book, Occupied Alexandria: How The Civil War Transformed A Southern City, published by The History Press, explores how Union occupation reshaped Old Town Alexandria.
From History Buff to Author, Ancestry Guru, and Professional Historian
Alexandria, VA — Getting into the dusty details of history is more than a hobby for Madeline Feierstein — it’s a self-defined “passion” that has launched her into some very curious places. To her own surprise, she said her dogged searches into the ancestry of individuals and places often lead her to critical connections, transcending family ties and lifetimes, and offering new trails to explore.
Inova Mount Vernon Hospital Family Celebrates 50th
MOUNT VERNON, VA – The 50th Anniversary Celebration at Inova Mount Vernon Hospital felt more like a family reunion than an institutional event recognizing extraordinary growth and service over five decades. “Family” was a word repeated by multiple speakers on Friday, Oct. 9, as elected officials, community leaders, longtime partners, physicians, staff, and volunteers gathered to celebrate Inova Mount Vernon Hospital.
Gadsby’s Tavern Junior Docents Build Public Speaking Skills
Laurie S. and Oliver F., both high school students who have volunteered since age 11, credit the junior docent program with “definitely helping with public speaking” while they provide details about their assigned stations (the chocolate and spice trade) at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum. Alexandria, VA – Looking for a way to boost a child’s confidence, knowledge, and public speaking skills simultaneously?
Alexandria Flower Arranging Workshops at Bastille This Fall
Royce Cohen, who hand-picks every fresh blossom and branch for her stunning arrangements herself, will share her expertise and special styling tips for the upcoming holiday season. Credit Royce Flowers Alexandria, VA – Looking for a way to engage in some dramatic creativity and hands-on fun while learning how to put some pizzazz into a floral arrangement? Or maybe you’re just wanting to indulge in something different like a delightful Saturday afternoon of flower arrangement and French food?
Alexandria Writer Jeffrey Higgins Warns Fellow Authors about AI Ideas
Holding his latest novel, Jeffrey James Higgins enjoys welcoming diners and writers to Elaine’s Restaurant, both as a writing salon host and as co-owner of the award-winning restaurant. Alexandria, VA – Creativity and imagination—once considered exclusively human traits—may be endangered as Artificial Intelligence (AI) moves beyond simple assignments and routine tasks. With AI increasingly taking on those human traits, are our brains beginning to atrophy from convenience?
Alexandria Model Tine Kirby Takes on New York Fashion Week
A modest display of Tine Kirby’s modeling work is displayed on her Old Town home’s coffee table. Alexandria, VA – It’s not unusual when children follow in their parents’ footsteps for a career—often to their own surprise.
The Back-to-School Need Hiding in Plain Sight in Alexandria
Dev Technology volunteers fill backpacks with grade-specific school supplies for Northern Virginia Family Services’ Back2School campaign in Falls Church. Photo: Susan McLain Sullivan. ALEXANDRIA, VA – Alexandria is a city of considerable wealth, with a median household income of $119,681. But need is woven through the community: 7.9% of residents live below the federal poverty line, according to U.S. Census data.
Rain Couldn’t Dampen the Fun at Alexandria’s Back 2 School Slam Jam
Volunteer Natalie Thai watches Lucas Baye, 5, enjoy the bounce house during METWC’s Annual Back 2 School Slam Jam. Photo: Susan Sullivan ALEXANDRIA, VA – Despite a midday downpour, cookies, pizza, popcorn, a bounce house and a live DJ created a sunny mood for children at the 15th Annual Back 2 School Slam Jam on Sunday, Aug. 2, at Patrick Henry Recreation Center.
Bastille Owners Open Maison Breizh, a New French Lunch Concept in Old Town
Chef Michelle Poteaux cuts the ribbon to formally celebrate the opening of Maison Breizh as family members, guests, and supporters gather outside the new Old Town lunch destination on July 15. Photo: Lucelle O’Flaherty ALEXANDRIA, VA — Chefs Michelle and Christophe Poteaux formally celebrated the opening of Maison Breizh, a new casual French lunch concept connected to Bastille Brasserie & Bar, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony July 15.
Sullivan: Why can’t the Basalt Planning Commission just say no?
I recently attended the Basalt Planning Commission meeting regarding the proposed Marriott Residence Inn at the old Movieland site in El Jebel, and I left utterly baffled. During the hearing, a clear consensus emerged: each and every planning commissioner expressed major reservations about the project. The overwhelming majority of public comment echoed these exact concerns, painting a clear picture that this massive extended-stay hotel is fundamentally incompatible with our community.
‘Young Washington’ Brings George Washington’s Formative Years to Life at Mount Vernon Premiere
The official poster for Young Washington, a new historical drama exploring George Washington’s formative years before he became America’s first president. The film, which premiered at George Washington’s Mount Vernon ahead of its nationwide release, opens in theaters July 3. Courtesy photo / Wonder Project & Angel Studios. MOUNT VERNON, VA – Enter center frame: a very young, weeping George Washington, a boy who has just lost his father.
You’ve Never Seen George Washington Like This Before
The Great Hall of Mount Vernon’s newly opened $20 million George Washington: A Revolutionary Life Education Center served as the setting for the ceremonial ribbon-cutting by Mount Vernon dignitaries on June 11, 2026. The new facility features immersive exhibits, interactive experiences, and rare artifacts exploring the life and legacy of George Washington. Photo: Susan Sullivan/The Zebra Press.
Mom's Spiced Zucchini Bread
Mom's Spiced Zucchini Bread This spiced zucchini bread recipe is super moist and flavorful, loaded with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. I tried several recipes before I asked my mom for her recipe. I get huge zucchini at the farmers' market every Saturday, and this is the perfect use for them. It reminds me of my childhood. The loaves can be frozen and are great as gifts. People love them. Submitted by carriekdevine Updated on May 14, 2026
Sullivan: Results, not rhetoric, for the Roaring Fork Valley
As residents of the Roaring Fork Valley, we are fortunate to live in a region defined by an independent spirit. From the banks of the Crystal River to the peaks of the Elk Mountains, our community has a long history of solving local challenges through pragmatic collaboration. I want to thank Representative Jeff Hurd for his stated commitment to protecting our water rights and his work on the Shoshone water rights acquisition — a vital issue for everyone in Western Colorado.
The Yellowstone Art Museum and its enduring partnership with Yellowstone County | Opinion
For more than 30 years, the Yellowstone Art Museum (YAM) and Yellowstone County have shared a public-private partnership that has enriched our community. The county’s support has helped the Museum preserve the historic former county jail, care for its regional art collection, and provide vibrant programming that connects people of all ages to creativity and culture. kAm%92E A2CE?6CD9:A H2D F?6IA64E65=J 5:DCFAE65 E9:D J62C H96? E96 *6==@HDE@?6 r@F?EJ r@>>:DD:@?
Renovation of Historic Home Honors Its Heritage and Craftmanship
Alexandria, VA – While many search for years to find a historic home to restore and treasure, for Andrew and Dr Margie Warrell, the opportunity quite literally knocked on their door. Shortly after relocating from Asia during the pandemic, the Warrells rented a stately red-brick townhouse at 211 Prince Street in Old Town Alexandria.
Rolling Through the Years: North Ridge's Wheel Day Celebrates 75+ Years of Community Spirit
On Sunday, May 25, the North Ridge neighborhood in Alexandria, Virginia, came alive with the vibrant sights and sounds of its annual Wheel Day parade. This cherished tradition, sponsored by the North Ridge Citizens’ Association (NRCA), has been a staple of the community since the 1940s, bringing together residents of all ages to celebrate unity, creativity, and the simple joy of movement. The parade commenced on N.
And To Think…They Met as Civil Servants in Alexandria City Hall
ALEXANDRIA, VA -Surrounded by blue linens and flowers and the soft glow of white sparklers beneath a beautiful white wedding tent in McLean, guests cheered and shared their warmest wishes with newlyweds Deborah Warren — Arlington County Dept of Human Services Deputy Director — and Jim Moran—the beloved former Alexandria mayor and retired U.S. Congressman from Northern Virginia. Their joyful Friday ceremony marked the beginning of a weekend filled with intimate, invitation-only celebrations.
Photos Behind the Scenes: Congressman and Alexandria Mayor Jim Moran Marrying Deborah Warren Today--his 80th Birthday!
ALEXANDRIA, VA – Deborah Warren, who is today marrying retired U.S. Congressman and former Alexandria Mayor Jim Moran, asks, “If not now, when?” The two have known each other since 1985. Yes, that’s 40 years. Back then, Warren had just been hired by the City of Alexandria to provide mental health services and Moran was serving as Alexandria’s Mayor. The two soon learned they had both grown up in New England towns near one another, and attended the same Catholic high school.
Campagna Center Celebrates 80th Anniversary With Gala
ALEXANDRIA, VA-Amid toasts to a banner year of service to the Alexandria community, board members and numerous supporters bid farewell to Dr. Tammy Mann, who has served as the president and CEO of Campagna Center, at its “Lighting the Way 80th Anniversary Gala” held at historic River Farm on Friday night (May 9).
Alexandria Author Explores Bravery in 'The Courage Gap'
ALEXANDRIA, VA-Ever have one of those “if only I had spoken up” moments? Those brief but significant times when a thought could have been expressed and likely would have changed the outcome of a situation? According to Alexandria resident Dr. Margie Warrell, these moments represent the courage gap – the space between what we know we should do and what we actually do.
Revolutionary War History Comes Alive at George Washington's Mount Vernon May 4
ALEXANDRIA, VA-Red azaleas and redcoats will be all over the grounds of George Washington’s Mount Vernon this weekend as the gardens and grounds of the mansion celebrate a special anniversary. May 4 marks the 250th anniversary of Washington’s departure to Philadelphia to become the leader of the Continental Army. A once-in-a-lifetime reeactment is planned.
Imagine Artwear Bids Farewell to King Street
ALEXANDRIA, VA-Vowing to continue her ongoing online presence, Carol Suplee, the owner of Imagine Artwear, sees the silver lining in a sad departure from her shop at 1124 King St. Many recognize the store by the lively outdoor mural, along with her Imagine bench and an Anthony and Cleopatra concrete sculpture setee.
VA Pilates Continues to Offer Healing on Historic Civil War Site
Alexandria, VA – Among the many things Victoria Azor loves about her Pilates studio in Old Town, one stands out: the building’s deep historical roots. Located at 323 S. Washington Street, VA Pilates operates in a space with a rich past. Azor takes pride in both the site’s historical significance as the home of social reformer Julia Wilbur and its current role in promoting health and pain relief for her clients.
A Passion-Driven Life Suits Noted Alexandrian Floral Designer Royce Cohen
Alexandria, VA – If you’ve lived in Alexandria for any length of time, you have probably seen Royce Cohen, but you may have wondered, who is that elegant little lady with the great hairstyle, oversized glasses, and that raucous laugh? For decades, Royce has been scurrying in and out of functions, from small dinner parties to gigantic galas, carrying various arrangements of flowers and tablescapes, holiday wreaths, and decorative accents.
Two Local Businesses Offer Free Business Portraits and Spirit-Boosting Flowers for Furloughed Federal Workers
ALEXANDRIA, VA—Matt Mendelsohn is the kind of professional who practices what he preaches. This Sunday, March 2, he will be at it again, using his highly honed photography skills to assist federal government workers who suddenly find themselves without a job. He is giving away free headshot photos at his professional studio at 600 Madison Street, above the Royal Restaurant.
Free Business Portraits and Spirit-Boosting Flowers for Fired Federal Workers Thanks to Two Small Businesses
ALEXANDRIA, VA—Matt Mendelsohn is the kind of professional who practices what he preaches. This Sunday, March 2, he will be at it again, using his highly honed photography skills to assist federal government workers who suddenly find themselves without a job. He is giving away free headshot photos at his professional studio at 600 Madison Street, above the Royal Restaurant.
Alexandria’s Jane Hess Finds New Career in Modeling
Alexandria, VA – Jane Hess Collins once wore the uniform of a U.S. Air Force colonel during her 20-year career in the military. More than a decade later, as a self-proclaimed “work-in-progress,” the 67-year-old fashion model said she was excited to wear a mid-length body wrap in an ad for Jiminez Beauty Center in McLean—her first professional gig as a model.
Alexandria’s Annual 'Taste of Scotland' Whisky Tasting Draws a Sell Out Crowd, Raising Spirits
ALEXANDRIA, VA – The online countdown clock that whirls off the days, hours, minutes, and seconds—is down to single digits with the annual Taste of Scotland whisky fundraiser held this evening, Friday, Dec., 6, at The Atrium (277 S. Washington St.) to support the Campagna Center. The precursor event launches the annual Scottish Weekend in Alexandria and this year’s 53rd Annual Scottish Christmas Parade on Saturday.
Crème de la Crème in Old Town Alexandria Offers Beautiful and Unique Entertaining and Gift Solutions
ALEXANDRIA, VA – “Unique and useful,” is how Crème de la Crème’s co-owner Tara Wegdam defined her approach for choosing beautiful gifts and French homeware during the holidays—or for any special occasion, as she welcomed guests to the company’s festive outpost at 907 King Street. Crème de la Crème’s ultimate mission is to inspire—or–to rescue the creative host, she noted. “First of all, the vision is trying to find unique gifts.
250 Years and Growing Gives Trinity Reasons To Be Grateful
Alexandria, VA – Older than the Nation itself. Older than the ink on the Bill of Rights or the Constitution. Even older than the fateful first shot at the North Bridge in Lexington and Concord or the Boston Tea Party when 342 chests of tea were tipped into the Boston Harbor, there was the “little flock” of founders of the Trinity United Methodist Church www.trinityalexandria.org in the young Town of Alexandria, Virginia.
Need a Helping Hand with Your Holiday Lights this Year?
ALEXANDRIA, VA – Decking the halls—and bushes, porches, roofs, trees, and walkways—with boughs of holly and miles of lights can be easier than you might think. Creating a lighted wonderland for any winter holiday with the help of an outdoor landscaping decorator can make all the difference between becoming a scrooge or turning into one of the holiday-loving Who’s from Whoville.
The YATES Team Reaches Legacy Business Status and Continues to Achieve
Alexandria, VA – “What we’re trying to do is so much more than the bottom line. It’s about responsible growth, great service, creating jobs, and creating an environment that’s healthy for our community and healthy for our people.
Susan Sullivan Kinney and Brian Laverdure: The Cryptocurrency Debate
Since 2009, when bitcoin was introduced as the first cryptocurrency, consumer interest in and utilization of this novel asset has ebbed and flowed. Price fluctuations, high interest rates, computer hacks and a lack of clear regulations have led many to question the practicality and safety of virtual currencies, while also drawing a speculative—and even curious—interest from others.
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum Society’s Spring Fling Boosts Endowment Fund
Alexandria, VA – From the plein air of the spacious patio in the rear of the historic building to the second-story Assembly Room and third-floor Ballroom, the 2024 Spring Fling hosted by the Gadsby’s Tavern Museum Society brought together more than 100 ticketed supporters and board members in a common goal to build the endowment of the historic building where George and Martha Washington once danced and colonists gathered to consider weighty matters of the time.
Co-working at The Link Offers A Local Vibe and Plenty of Work Space
Alexandria, VA – While office space continues to evolve, most still exude an impersonal air of silent elevator rides and reflective towering steel with one-way glass walls. The atmosphere at The Link linkinoldtown.com at 215 N. Payne defies the norm in its wellness-infused vibe meets office-space functionality. The converted former Chec Soda factory space offers a fresh take on productivity.
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum Society’s Spring Fling Boosts Endowment Fund
From the plein air of the spacious patio in the rear of the historic building to the second-story Assembly Room and third-floor Ballroom, the 2024 Spring Fling hosted by the Gadsby’s Tavern Museum Society brought together more than 100 ticketed supporters and board members in a common goal to build the endowment of the historic building where George and Martha Washington once danced and colonists gathered to consider weighty matters of the time.
April Blooms with Shakespeare Readings and Poetry Month Celebrations
Alexandria, VA – In some high school English classrooms, April is a natural month for the reading of the works of William Shakespeare. Not only is it the month of his birth in April 1564 but also of his death in April 1616. Coincidentally, both blessed events occurred in the same location of Stratford-upon-Avon where historic records at Holy Trinity Church bear witness—and the monument.
Sound Stroll Offers Multisensory Immersion in Shakespeare
Alexandria, VA – The two young software engineers arrived on bicycles at Old Town’s Torpedo Factory Art Center on a recent weekend anticipating a walk among the visual arts studio. However, when they stepped into the center’s elevator, they saw a notice for a “Sound Stroll” at Target Gallery and headed to the main floor to check it out.
Alexandria Women for Good Excel in Goodness
Alexandria, VA – When Laura Turner shows up on the doorstep of an aspiring nonprofit in Alexandria with a check valued in the thousands, she is often met with cheers and hugs.
Students Express Appreciation for Opening Up Shakespeare’s World
Alexandria, VA – How can one measure Shakespeare’s ability to capture raw human life experiences in his works or to engage–even the young and the hesitant–in the pleasure of sublime language and drama experienced around the world? Enjoying a class in a subject is one thing but being inspired to pursue study or even to choose a career in the field (or directly related area) is quite another.
Greenstreet Gardens Is Creating a Spring Full of Surprises
Alexandria, VA – With the highly anticipated arrival of springtime, Greenstreet Gardens and owner Ray Greenstreet are preparing exciting changes for novice and expert gardeners and those who want to develop a reputation for having a green thumb. Along with fresh paint and lighting upgrades, Greenstreet Gardens at 1721 W. Braddock Road will soon christen a handsome, custom-built wooden project bar for small-scale potting and retail gatherings in the Gift Shop.
Spring’s Northern ALX Native Plant Sale Offers Plants That Thrive in NoVA
Alexandria, VA – Long before winter began transitioning to spring, C. Scott Knudsen was making plans for the spring 2024 Northern Alexandria Native Plant Sale set for Saturday, April 27. Spring is when people think about what kinds of plants to choose and new opportunities to promote native plants as smart choices for both novice and experienced gardeners.
Dean Norton Has Walked Mount Vernon’s Grounds Longer Than the General Himself!
Alexandria, VA – Like millions of other gardeners and horticulturists across America, Dean Norton is seeing the promise of green things to come this spring: The soil is rich, dark, and turned, the seed stock germinates silently in the greenhouse, and the excitement of reawakening nature is palpable.
Old Town’s Carefull Knitters Use the Magic of Yarn and Creativity to Meet Community Needs
By Susan McLain Sullivan Alexandria, VA – Have you ever watched somebody snuggle into a hand-knitted Afghan blanket or shawl? Or, maybe you’ve seen the tiny heads of newborns crowned in cozy, knitted caps? You are witnessing the magic of yarn. The gifted items frequently rouse a sigh of pleasure—even some giggles or a smile—from the feel of soft items.
Celebrating 15 Years, fibre space Earns Growing National Attention for Needles, Yarn, and Community Involvement
Alexandria, VA – At first glance, the façade of fibre space appears to be a curious architectural structure with a colorful story to share—a striking historic flatiron design and a bright blue brick exterior with an iconic mural of a knitter floating in space that covers the entire length of one side of the building. But that would be judging the award-winning business by its cover, as inviting as it is.
Good Mood Food - Columbia Metropolitan Magazine
It's that time of year. Daylight savings time has not come back yet, so we have no choice but to accept the onset of early dark in the afternoons. For many Americans, less sunlight and colder temperatures beginning midfall and lasting through winter can cause a form of depression known as seasonal affective disorder or the “wintertime blues.” Scientists have theorized many ways to naturally reduce the symptoms of depression, and “good mood foods” have been researched ad nauseam.
Find Unique Last-Minute Holiday Gifts at The Old Town Shop in Alexandria
ALEXANDRIA, VA – The welcoming decorations of The Old Town Shop, just a block from the beautiful waterfront, bring shoppers to the assorted treasures within its cozy walls. Among a marvelous assortment of gifts are other 2023 holiday ornaments, including the 2022 and the 2023 White House ornaments, as well a few just for Old Town Alexandria. This unique ornament of the iconic Old Town Houses is engraved with Old Town Alexandria and is a perfect gift to remember Old Town.
PHOTOS: It's Merry and Bright at Gossypia Boutique in Alexandria
ALEXANDRIA, VA – Located on Cameron Street across from Alexandria City Hall, the Gossypia boutique welcomes shoppers into a wonderland of hand-fashioned and hand-crafted clothing, jewelry, and beautiful, authentic Latin American Folk Art. What does the name mean? Gossypia is simply the Latin word for cotton. Owner Amanda Lasker used it to name the business because the shop only sells attire with natural fibers.
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