It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Old Town Alexandria Waterfront gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Alexandria, VA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“We did not end up getting care from Always Best Care since our father uses”
“My family and I were blessed to find Rashid and his wonderful team of caregivers!”
“I'm writing this review as a friend and sometimes caregiver of a person with dementia.”
“Hi, Please know my Five Stars rating is very real & very honest! I reached out”
“My family has used Always Best Care for about five months now. We are grateful”
“Scott and his staff were excellent to work with. We quickly needed all night”
“My mother required some post-surgical assistance as she was healing from a knee replacement procedure.”
“Scott Maquire, owner is helpful and will work with you to develop a plan that”
“I had caregivers for my elderly mother from Always Best Care for close to three”
“Finding Always Best Care was a game changer for me and my mom (after trying”
“Our experience with Always Best Care Senior Services of Herndon was positive. Excellent communication and”
“Our family was delighted to have found Always Best Care Senior Services, having been recommended”
“With my wife bed bound and I the only caretaker, I was soon exhausted. Scott”
“I am a past client of this provider My mother was in hospice care and needed”
“Scott and his team provided excellent companion care for Mom as her dementia progressed. They”
“I had the good fortune to work for Scott Maguire at ABC following my move”
“Anyone reading this is likely where my family was. Completely exhausted and desperate. My husband”
“Wow--my family has worked with a number of companies to assist us through the years”
“I couldn’t be happier with the care Scott and his team have provided my mother”
“They were able to find a suitable care-giver within a relatively short time frame”
“Scott Maguire at ABC was very helpful when I needed to find an assisted living”
“I have worked with this company for many years as the leader in an assisted”
“Always Best Care has provided a wealth of knowledge. They helped me deal with”
“Always Best Care is a very respected business in Herndon. It is always a”
“Scott was a huge help to the Nay family by helping us find an Assisted”
“We did not end up getting care from Always Best Care since our father uses Medicaid, but they were very kind and helpful in connecting us with another agency who accepts Medicaid, and followed up with us to make sure we had reached the other agency.”
“My family and I were blessed to find Rashid and his wonderful team of caregivers! From the first day the emphasis was always on our father and how they could meet his needs and keep him comfortable. They took care of our dad as if he was a member of their family. The caring starts at the top with Rashid, who is amazing. He knew my father well and visited him often, always keeping us informed. He would be at the house to orient new care team members and introduce them to our father including weekends and shift change at 8 pm. When we could not be with our father, we knew he was in great hands. We were so fortunate to have found Rashid and his wonderful team of caring and empathetic caregivers, they were a blessing to us during a very difficult time.”
“I'm writing this review as a friend and sometimes caregiver of a person with dementia. She has received in-home services from Always Best Care for several years. Her home care aide, Brenda, helped my friend with things like organizing her files, paying bills, finding and keeping track of her things, canceling subscription items bought online and then not remembered, medication management, etc. She was kind, patient, and highly flexible. The company owner has also been wonderful to work with; kind, patient, flexible and responsive. I highly recommend ABC Senior Services!”
“Hi, Please know my Five Stars rating is very real & very honest! I reached out to Always Best Care S.S. (Fairfax County VA) & received the best customer service from Rashid after 11 exhausting calls. What I actually needed at that time they did not offer, but Rashid still proceeded to assist me. Rashid showed caring concerns and patience. Rashid even reached out on my behalf to others in his field of work as well provided me with further resources outside of his own practice! Not only did Rashid provide other resources, Rashid followed up with me the next day!! Mind you I missed the call/phone tag & Rashid still returned my call until we connected! That’s above beyond…. I was relieved of a lot of burden & false hope. The resources ended up being a huge success. So I want to highly recommend Contacting Always Best Care S.S. And have the pleasure I experienced with Rashid an awesome person, very professional top notch customer service for your needs. Rashid Farrell thank you for being you???? Octavia”
“My family has used Always Best Care for about five months now. We are grateful for the help and advice we have received. The home health aide sent to us has been outstanding and Scott Maguire has always been available for advice. We recommend ABC to anyone who needs its services.”
“Scott and his staff were excellent to work with. We quickly needed all night companions at the hospital and home for more than two months. Scott responded to our needs and provided some wonderful people. Highly recommend.”
“My mother required some post-surgical assistance as she was healing from a knee replacement procedure. Scott was very helpful in arranging a dependable and compassionate caregiver for the time which we needed the assistance. I could confidently attend to my work schedule knowing that my mother was receiving the help she needed for medication reminders, meal preparation, exercise prompts and having a supportive ear during the convalescence from Sue. I recommend Always Best Care Senior Services very highly.”
“Scott Maquire, owner is helpful and will work with you to develop a plan that works best for your situation. My mom loves here caregiver and I highly recommend Always Best Care Senior Services for peace of mind,”
“I had caregivers for my elderly mother from Always Best Care for close to three years, and I would unreservedly do so again. It took a little bit to find providers who were right for my mother’s particular needs (besides becoming increasingly frail, she had severe anxiety), and for my schedule (my mother was living with me), but owner Scott Maguire was extremely accessible and responsive, and ultimately we established an arrangement that worked well. The caregivers were honest, reliable, caring, and responsive to my feedback, and communication via daily logs and in-person reporting ensured I was aware of anything I needed to know. I found the advantage of working with a small company whose owner I never had trouble reaching or getting to understand my needs a huge factor in what made this agency work for me.”
“Finding Always Best Care was a game changer for me and my mom (after trying several other companies). Scott was professional and responsive. He found the perfect companion for my mom (Kendall). She was reliable, flexible, thoughtful, kind and an excellent communicator. Within a short time, my mom began asking when that "nice Kendall" was coming again. I cannot recommend ABC Senior Services highly enough. I will always be grateful for their services.”
“Our experience with Always Best Care Senior Services of Herndon was positive. Excellent communication and billing was easy.”
“Our family was delighted to have found Always Best Care Senior Services, having been recommended by another senior care agency. They quickly responded with excellent experienced care givers who were terrific in caring for my father, giving him the attention he needed. The personal attention given by the owner was terrific. The nursing consultation was also appreciated. I highly recommend this agency.”
“With my wife bed bound and I the only caretaker, I was soon exhausted. Scott and Always Best Care came to my rescue by providing me with the help I needed to get through this ordeal. The young lady that came 7 hours a day was a Godsend to me. She was attentive and caring and made my wife's life so much better, no to mention my own. I would not have made it through without her. Scott dealt directly with the insurance people saving me from having to manage any record keeping and payment issues. That also relieves a lot of stress. I would strongly recommend Always Best Care to anyone in need of such services.”
“I am a past client of this provider My mother was in hospice care and needed help and companionship and I couldn’t be there 24/7. Always Best Care sent providers to be with her and I can’t say enough good things about them. They were compassionate and skilled, and always there when I needed them. I could relax knowing that my mom was in good hands.”
“Scott and his team provided excellent companion care for Mom as her dementia progressed. They ran errands with her, provided meals for her and Dad, and generally kept her engaged and entertained during the pandemic. Scott was a wealth of knowledge and always available to help us navigate the disease and it’s effects. I highly recommend him and his team!”
“I had the good fortune to work for Scott Maguire at ABC following my move from New Hampshire to Virginia. I was with the agency for eight years until last month when I moved to Florida. Scott always cared about his clients, and had a knack for matching them with compatible caregivers. He was always available for questions and concerns. I had opportunities to work for other agencies between clients, but chose to stick with Always Best Care, because the name of the agency says it all.”
“Anyone reading this is likely where my family was. Completely exhausted and desperate. My husband and I had been primary caregivers for my in-laws when one ended up with non-COVID pneumonia and the other had a stroke followed by a fall-- all since early January. Now vaccinated, they were ready for outside help and wanted it to start right away. We had been talking to an agency throughout the process that came highly recommended, Old Dominion. But they were not able to turn around an awesome caregiver in 72 hours and recommended I call one of their friendly competitors-- Scott- At Always Best Care Senior Services in Herndon. Scott understood that we were looking for stopgap care until Old Dominion could find someone permanent and after a call Friday afternoon, he had someone at my in-laws on Monday, 8:00am. And she was terrific. It makes all the difference to have such a positive experience from the beginning. My in-laws were very pleased and appreciated that Scott had been upfront that the caregiver he had available had a thick accent and that, combined with a mask, might be challenging for someone hearing impaired. This is an issue for my mother in law and it made all the difference that she knew in advance. The other thing I appreciated is that all of Scott's caregivers are vaccinated or on their way. The one he sent was getting her second shot later in her start week with us. Unfortunately, my father-in-law is going to need a stint in skilled rehab, so we won't be continuing with Scott's wonderful caregiver. But Scott stepped up to help provide some insiders perspective on facilities. There was nothing to gain from that, except putting goodness out into the world. The process is overwhelming and it made such a difference to get his perspective. We could not have been more pleased to have had such a terrific experience and highly recommend Always Best Care Senior Services if you or a loved one is looked for quality care.”
“Wow--my family has worked with a number of companies to assist us through the years in the Annandale area. This is the best. Scott Maguire--the owner is responsive, collaborative, and empathetic to unique questions and requirements. This is the company we will work with hereafter.”
“I couldn’t be happier with the care Scott and his team have provided my mother this past year. They’ve been very responsive and flexible to her changing needs. I would recommend this very well-run company to anyone seeking top-notch care for their loved one.”
“They were able to find a suitable care-giver within a relatively short time frame”
“Scott Maguire at ABC was very helpful when I needed to find an assisted living facility for my mother. Later, when my mother's needs increased, ABC provided a very good companion for her. I recommend Scott and ABC without reservation.”
“I have worked with this company for many years as the leader in an assisted living community in the local Herndon neighborhood. I have found that the caregivers at "Always Best Care" were compassionate, caring and engaging with the the residents they served with our community. The management team at Always Best Care, in addition, were very responsive to any questions or concerns that we may have had and resolved issues immediately. The management team often visited their team members in the community ensuring that their employees were engaging with their clients and performing professionally in the "guest community". I would highly recommend this organization if you are looking for a team who can understand the needs of the senior as well as the needs of the family.”
“Always Best Care has provided a wealth of knowledge. They helped me deal with all the issues that appeared once my Mom got sick and could no longer take care of herself. Scott shared ideas and information. He was able to direct me to VA services I didn't realize my Mom was entitled. This money thanks to Scott has allowed my Mom to stay in her home and have services provided to her. I highly recommend Scott and his caring wonderful staff at Always Best Care.”
“Always Best Care is a very respected business in Herndon. It is always a pleasure to work with Scott and his team.”
“Scott was a huge help to the Nay family by helping us find an Assisted Living Home that suited my parent's budget and lifestyle. Scott identified our financial concerns and then went to work looking for a place for my parents. He found a great place closer to my home and my parents are thrilled with it and are able to bank money instead of wasting money at the place they were at before. Scott's referral service will always be remembered by the Nay Family”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Jones Point Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Ada's on the River or visit Captains Row Old Town Alexandria, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Alexandria, VA, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Alexandria, VA understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Alexandria, VA 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
From new dining to the next waterfront art installation, here are the new experiences Visit Alexandria is highlighting in 2025.Patch Staff|Updated Thu, Jan 23, 2025 at 12:24 pm ETALEXANDRIA, VA — Between new and upcoming openings of more restaurants and retail to events and art installations, Visit Alexandria says there's plenty for residents and visitors to look forward to in 2025.New restaurants are one of th...
Patch Staff
|Updated Thu, Jan 23, 2025 at 12:24 pm ET
ALEXANDRIA, VA — Between new and upcoming openings of more restaurants and retail to events and art installations, Visit Alexandria says there's plenty for residents and visitors to look forward to in 2025.
New restaurants are one of the topics Patch readers are most interested in. The Old Town neighborhood accounts for many of the openings. The Parlour, Madame Coco’s libation lounge, will open on Royal Street in late January, specializing in cocktails, coffee and chocolate. Madame Coco had been one of three woman-owned businesses damaged by a fire in November 2024, leading it to relocate to Royal Street. Locally-based Greenheart Juice Shop will open its newest location as well as Azerbaijani Sharbat Bakery and Cafe later in 2025.
The waterfront brings other dining highlights, including the newly opened Cooper Mill in a historic warehouse. The restaurant has a grab-and-go market, casual tavern and private event space. A grand opening is planned in February. Other waterfront additions include The Pier Bar near tall ship Providence and Catboat Pizza Bar at the Washington Sailing Marina, both of which will return for another season when the weather is warmer.
Alexandria's coffee scene will get an additional caffeinated boost. The veteran and family-owned Café du Soleil is working to open its second location in the former locaiton Abyssinia Mart spot at 720 Jefferson Street. Mudhouse Coffee, which originated as a coffee cart decades ago, is planning a King Street location. Hypergoat Cafe is open as of August 2024.
In case you missed it, some of last year's openings were Thanida Thai Restaurant and Bar relocating from an Old Town North redevelopment site, Ben’YaYs serving Louisiana-style beignets, Mystic BBQ & Grill in the former Myron Mixon's Pitmaster BBQ spot, Frankie’s Kitchen & Cocktail Bar, La Tingeria at Port City Brewing Company and Andy’s Pizza at Carlyle's Atlas Brew Works.
Alexandria's hotels are also offering new restaurants and other amenities. In summer 2024, the Lorien Hotel & Spa became Archer Hotel Old Town Alexandria. The hotel will unveil a new hotel design with an updated lobby, living room and event spaces in early 2025. Its King Street Spa will close for a renovation starting on Jan. 31. In the spring, the hotel will debut the restaurant HomeGrown from a husband-and-wife duo, joining hotel bar AKB.
That hotel renovation follows the introduction of Hotel Heron in 2024. Located at the site of the historic George Mason Hotel, it opened cocktail bar Francis Hall in October and is currently offering rooftop igloos during the winter season at its rooftop bar. Old Town North's Hotel AKA Alexandria also had an expanded menu at a.lounge+bar in August 2024.
New retail will include The B.E.S.T. Gift Shop's future King Street space with products by artisans with disabilities. Local makers shop Made in ALX is now on King Street as of November 2024. Romance bookstore Friends to Lovers, one of the three women-owned businesses damaged in the November fire, temporarily relocated above Wine Gallery 108 at 108 N. St. Asaph Street as it seeks a permanent location. Old Town Books has debuted its junior section.
Other recent openings include home decor and art store Eries Interiors, custom boot store American in Paris and men's bespoke shoemaker Old House Provisions.
In Del Ray, Visit Alexandria highlighted plans for the Del Ray Farmhouse Market & Garden from the Del Ray Hardware owners at the former Bellies & Babies location. In October, Visit Del Ray shared the opening of Mulberry Lane, a children's play space and coworking space. Del Ray's pop-up bar wrapped up its Joy on the Avenue holiday rendition in early January, so stay tuned as it prepares for the next theme.
In the spring, more than 30 retro arcade games will return with the opening of Continues Arcade. The arcade's restaurant will be led by D.C. celebrity restaurateur and Top Chef contestant Spike Mendelssohn. In other entertainment offerings, trampoline park Sky Zone is expected to open later in 2025. In the meantime, indoor baseball and softball training facility The Dugout is open since fall 2024.
Other entertainment will come in the form of events and art installations. Visit Alexandria will look to attract D.C. visitors attending WorldPride2025 from May 17 to June 8 to attend Alexandria events such as 8th Annual Alexandria Pride Fair, Pride at Torpedo Factory Art Center and a Priday Market & Drag Show plus book WorldPride hotel packages with some profits benefiting Alexandria LGBTQ+ organizations.
In late March, Waterfront Park will get its seventh annual temporary art installation. Break Water by D.C.-based mixed media artist Nekisha Durrett will be a tribute to Black communities' resilience and strength during crises. The art has a focal point inspired by the steamboat River Queen, which Black entrepreneur Lewis Jefferson owned in 1898 until a fire destroyed it in 1911. Beneath that sculpture lies a ground mural of ropes called “Life Lines” paired with histories, events, people, places and traditions contributing to Alexandria's identity. The art exhibit will be in place through November.
This winter's coldest temperatures were recorded Wednesday morning in Northern Virginia. When will the cold snap end?Megan VerHelst, Patch StaffWASHINGTON, DC — The ongoing arctic blast has blanketed Northern Virginia with frigid temperatures and bitterly cold wind chills, but the end may be in sight. Normal temperatures could return by early next week, according to forecasters.The lowest temperatures of the ongo...
Megan VerHelst, Patch Staff
WASHINGTON, DC — The ongoing arctic blast has blanketed Northern Virginia with frigid temperatures and bitterly cold wind chills, but the end may be in sight. Normal temperatures could return by early next week, according to forecasters.
The lowest temperatures of the ongoing cold snap occurred Wednesday morning with widespread single digits and low teens, Washington Post forecasters reported. Wind chills fell to right around zero or a few degrees below.
At 11 a.m. Wednesday, the wind chill was 11 degrees and the true temperature was 19 in Washington, D.C. Wednesday followed a similarly cold day Tuesday when temperatures reached a high of just 24 and a low of 16.
"January’s average temperature is running 4.6 degrees below normal, and Wednesday is expected to be about 15 to 20 degrees colder than usual as the worst of the cold grips the area," Post forecasters said.
While the cold may seem never-ending, some relief is on its way.
While Thursday will get off to a cold start, warmer air will move into the region and push temperatures into the mid-30s, according to the National Weather Service. By Sunday, temperatures should reach the low to mid-40s and remain there through the start of next week.
"Next week, computer models suggest there may be a good deal of temperature variability, but highs should average close to normal," Post forecasters said.
There's "a chance for a little rain and snow" in some areas around Sunday, but it's too far out to know specifics. Meteorologists are uncertain where the potential storm could hit, what type of precipitation it would bring and how much may fall during the "weak and fast-moving" system.
"There is still a lot of uncertainty as to who gets what type of precipitation as well as a high uncertainty as to who doesn't get any precipitation as a few models are showing a downsloping flow over the heart of our region. The GFS, along with a blend of other models, are revealing a chance of a little rain or a little snow. The EURO keeps the low pressure to the south," the NWS said.
Here's the detailed NWS forecast for the Washington, D.C. region through this weekend:
Wednesday: Sunny, with a high near 21. Northwest wind 5 to 7 mph becoming calm in the afternoon.
Wednesday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 11. Calm wind.
Thursday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 34. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph.
Thursday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 17. Light and variable wind.
Friday: Sunny, with a high near 33. Northwest wind 5 to 8 mph.
Friday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 13.
Saturday: Sunny, with a high near 37.
Saturday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 25.
Sunday: Mostly cloudy, with a high near 44.
Sunday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 26.
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Nearly 11 years after cancer treatments, an Alexandria resident continues to raise funds for cancer research amid another ailment.Patch StaffALEXANDRIA, VA — Nearly 11 years ago, Alexandria resident and Air Force veteran Pat Malone was undergoing seven hours of surgery to remove a malignant tumor at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. That February 2014 procedure led by neurosurgeon Dr. Walter Faillace got rid of a hockey puck-sized tumor in Malone's chest. Radiation, rehabilitation and physical therapy follow...
Patch Staff
ALEXANDRIA, VA — Nearly 11 years ago, Alexandria resident and Air Force veteran Pat Malone was undergoing seven hours of surgery to remove a malignant tumor at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. That February 2014 procedure led by neurosurgeon Dr. Walter Faillace got rid of a hockey puck-sized tumor in Malone's chest. Radiation, rehabilitation and physical therapy followed for several months over the summer. Today, Malone is cancer free and continues to fundraise in support of cancer research.
Malone will host his 11th annual Stand Up To Cancer, an attempt to stand up for 24 consecutive hours as a fundraiser. It will start at 4:26 p.m. on Feb. 10, the time he woke up from his tumor removal surgery, and end at 4:26. p.m. on Feb. 11. The fundraiser benefits Stand Up To Cancer, a program of the Entertainment Industry Foundation to support national and international cancer research. The 24-hour Stand Up To Cancer will be held at Fire Works Pizza in Arlington.
Malone's fundraiser resulted from a desire to help advance cancer research and honor the military and civilian medical team at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center's John P. Murtha Cancer Center as well as the Radiation Oncology Clinic at the Alexander T. Augusta Medical Center on Fort Belvoir. The National Cancer Institute estimates that 40.5 percent of men and women will receive a cancer diagnosis in their lives, based on data from 2017 to 2019.
The cancer survivor has attempted the 24-hour standing fundraiser despite another worsening condition. At Walter Reed, Malone learned he had Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia, a rare and incurable condition that causes weakness and stiffness in the legs. A former marathon runner, he lives with the worsening condition through professional physical therapy at Walter Reed. He also walks often in Alexandria, Arlington, Leesburg and D.C. although his ability to walk for long periods of time is worsening.
Residents can donate to the fundraiser in person at Fire Works Pizza with cash or checks made out to 'Stand Up To Cancer,' or online on Malone's fundraiser page. All proceeds directly support Stand Up To Cancers research programs to cure all types of cancer.
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Students had their first classes at the Virginia Tech Innovation Campus's new academic building Tuesday. Patch StaffALEXANDRIA, VA — Students got an introduction to the Virginia Tech Innovation Campus in Alexandria as its first academic building opened for classes Tuesday.The new 11-story, 300,000-square-foot building is the first for the campus in Alexandria's Potomac Yard. It was announced alongside Amazon's second head...
Patch Staff
ALEXANDRIA, VA — Students got an introduction to the Virginia Tech Innovation Campus in Alexandria as its first academic building opened for classes Tuesday.
The new 11-story, 300,000-square-foot building is the first for the campus in Alexandria's Potomac Yard. It was announced alongside Amazon's second headquarters in neighboring Arlington County and is planned as part of a larger mixed-use development by JBG Smith near the new Potomac Yard Metro station.
The campus is enrolling students pursuing Master of Engineering degrees in computer science and computer engineering as Virginia Tech seeks to develop more tech talent for regional employers. As of the fall 2024 semester, 455 Master of Engineering students were enrolled in Northern Virginia. By 2030, the Innovation Campus expects to enroll 700 to 900 master's degree students.
According to Virginia Tech, highlights of the new building are the Boeing Auditorium with a capacity of 200 in a classroom-style format or 300 in an auditorium format, 14 classrooms ranging from 25 to 90 seats, three instructional studios for online teaching and learning, 32 huddle rooms for student and faculty collaboration, a cyber physical lab, two-story drone testing cage and eighth floor roof deck with a capacity of 300 people. A fifth floor suite will be the Northern Virginia headquarters of the Sanghani Center for Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics, while the second floor will host a K-12 Initiatives Center to promote STEM learning, the Boeing Center for Veteran Transition and Military Families, and the Hokie One Stop student services center. An underground parking lot provides 169 parking spaces and eight electric charging stations.
There are 55 employees based at the Innovation Campus as of fall 2024, including 17 faculty. By 2029, the campus is aiming to have 50 faculty. The campus also has a research focus on artificial intelligence and machine learning, wireless and next generation technology, quantum information science and intelligent interfaces.
A grand opening event for the Virginia Tech Innovation Campus will be held on Feb. 28 with keynote speaker Regina Dugan, the president and CEO of Wellcome Leap.
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Forecasters expect several chances of snow before a polar vortex arrives with colder temperatures.Patch Staff|Updated Thu, Jan 16, 2025 at 10:31 am ETVIRGINIA — Frigid wind chills from the polar vortex will follow a few more chances of snow in the Northern Virginia region in the next few days.The National Weather Service has issued a hazardous weather outlook in Northern Virginia and other parts of the D.C. region. On Thursday after...
Patch Staff
|Updated Thu, Jan 16, 2025 at 10:31 am ET
VIRGINIA — Frigid wind chills from the polar vortex will follow a few more chances of snow in the Northern Virginia region in the next few days.
The National Weather Service has issued a hazardous weather outlook in Northern Virginia and other parts of the D.C. region. On Thursday afternoon and evening, forecasters say snow showers could result in a slick coating on roads.
A potential winter commuting hazard statement was implemented for the evening commute, as forecasters expect a 30 to 50 percent chance of snow around the D.C. region.
"If this threat does materialize this afternoon and evening rush- hour, many roads could quickly turn snow covered," the National Weather Service forecast says. "This could lead to dangerous traveling conditions on untreated surfaces. If commuting this afternoon and evening, be aware of the possibility of travel disruptions."
Another chance of snow will be Sunday. The National Weather Service says "there is a slight winter storm threat Sunday" that could bring impacts to travel.
According to the Washington Post's Capital Weather Gang, models show Sunday's winter storm chance could bring a dusting or less to 1 or 2 inches of snow.
AccuWeather says accumulating snow and ice could create slippery road conditions on Sunday.
"At this time, most likely snow will have departed Washington, D.C., in time for the Presidential inauguration on Monday, but there may be slippery conditions for those traveling to the nation's capital from Sunday to early Monday morning," said AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Adam Douty.
After that, forecasters say "dangerously cold wind chills" will affect the region from Sunday night through Wednesday morning. That's due to the polar vortex, a system of chilly polar air, making its way to parts of the U.S., including the D.C. region, according to the Capital Weather Gang.
On Sunday, forecasters believe the polar vortex will keep temperatures in the 30s on Sunday. For those attending Inauguration Day and Martin Luther King Jr. Day events, Monday could be chillier, with temperatures potentially staying below 25 degrees.
Forecasters believe Tuesday will be the coldest day from the polar vortex effect. Temperatures may reach highs in the low 20s and have lows around the teens. Wednesday will bring similar temperatures before highs in the 30s approaching the 40s in the following days.
Between the cold weather and winter storms, the Capital Weather Gang says January is shaping up to be colder and snowier than usual in the region.
Here's the National Weather Service forecast in the days ahead at Reagan National Airport:
Thursday: Scattered snow showers before 1 p.m., then scattered rain and snow showers between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., then scattered sprinkles and flurries after 4 p.m. Cloudy, with a high near 36. South wind around 11 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40 percent. At night, scattered rain and snow showers before 8 p.m., then scattered flurries between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Mostly cloudy during the early evening, then gradual clearing, with a low around 26. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph. The chance of precipitation is 30 percent at night.
Friday: Sunny, with a high near 43. At night, increasing clouds, with a low around 32. South wind 6 to 9 mph.
Saturday: A chance of rain and snow before 10 a.m., then a chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 47. South wind 7 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40 percent. At night, partly cloudy, with a low around 32.
Sunday: A chance of snow after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 40. Chance of precipitation is 40 percent. At night, partly cloudy, with a low around 20.
Monday: Sunny, with a high near 26. At night, partly cloudy, with a low around 10.
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 22. At night, partly cloudy, with a low around 10.
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