Difference Makers In Del Ray Recognized With Star Awards

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Difference makers in the Del Ray community were honored with the Del Ray Business Association's annual Star Awards.

The awards were presented Monday, "recognizing individuals who have gone above and beyond in their service to the Del Ray community," according to the business association.

The Outstanding Small Business Owner award was presented to Jenna Gotch of Passionately Pets and Amy Eggers of Coldwell Banker Realty.

Gotch was recognized for starting a thriving dog walking and pet sitting business and collaboration with other small businesses, volunteer work at Del Ray events and support of local animal rescue organizations. She also founded the new Del Ray Dog Fest in 2023.

"This quiet but consistent business owner started a side hustle 16 years ago in which she was able to grow into a successful full-time business," said Dr. Lauren Fisher, president of the Del Ray Business Association. "She had a vision and executed it beautifully, providing another wonderful addition and reason to live in Del Ray."

Eggers was recognized for her work as a realtor, serving as founder and CEO of the Del Ray Vintage Flea Market, co-chairing Art on the Avenue and serving as retail chair of the Del Ray Business Assocation.

"This business owner is a Del Ray native who is a small but mighty force," said Fisher. "She is dedicated and caring and compassionate to the people she serves, to advocating and assisting other small businesses, and is committed to enhancing the overall experience of our community."

The Outstanding City/Government Service award went to Mount Vernon Recreation Center Director Elsie Akinbobola. "No matter what we need, she is there for us," said Del Ray Business Association board member Pat Miller, noting Akinbobola's support of events like Taste of Del Ray, Art on the Avenue, the Del Ray Halloween Parade and more. "She is so dedicated to our community that friends joke that her fourth daughter is Alexandria."

The Outstanding Citizen award to DC Road Runners' Brian Danza, who is the race director of the Alexandria Turkey Trot.

"When Brian became the Race Director 12 years ago, we only had 3,500 runners registered for the Turkey Trot," said Miller. "Brian has helped grow our neighborhood race into the Mid-Atlantic's top Turkey Trot, with over 6,600 runners participating this year."

The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Patty Moran, administrative assistant to the principal at Alexandria City High School. Moran moved to Del Ray in 1976 and became known as one of the "Del Ray Divas" for her involvement in the community. She is also advisor of the high school's Key Club.

"Our events would not happen without the support of the incredible students at Key Club," said Del Ray Business Association board member Gayle Reuter. "And Patty is right there working with them — she's usually the first one at an event and the last one to leave."

Lastly, a special award was presented to longtime business and property owner Dennis Reeder. Reeder is credited with organizing the first block party that later became Art on the Avenue. His building was one of the first to house Del Ray Artisans during its early years.

"Dennis really believed in The Avenue," said Reuter. "He has always supported his small business tenants, particularly during the pandemic. He invested in Del Ray, and has given back to our community in so many ways."

Overall, the business association raised over $100,000 for local nonprofits through its events in 2023.

"Many businesses have gone above and beyond their core operations to give back to society and make a positive difference in the lives of others," said Fisher. "Whether it is through charitable donations, volunteer work, or sustainable business practices, the contributions of our small businesses are invaluable."

See more information about the business association and its upcoming events in Del Ray at www.visitdelray.com.