🌱 Weapons Screening In Alexandria Schools? + Cherry Blossom Season

Hi all. It's me, Sean Peek, your host of the Del Ray Patch newsletter — back in your inbox with everything you need to know about what's happening in the community.

But first, today's weather:

A bit of snow and rain. High: 40 Low: 30.

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Here are the top three stories in Del Ray today:

1. Alexandria City Public Schools is seeking feedback from the community about a pilot program for weapon screenings in its schools. The survey is currently open to the public, and will be until Mar. 8, 2023. The pilot program will consist of multiple weapons screening processes that, if approved, have a goal date of implementation in May. (Del Ray Patch)
2. On Feb. 23, Senator Coons (D-Del) joined Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) in an effort to limit short-term limited insurance plans, also known as junk plans. These plans can deny patients with pre-existing conditions, and are not required to cover essential services such as maternity care or prescription coverage. (Senator Chris Coons)
3. If your favorite time of year is when the cherry blossoms begin to bloom, this season could come early this year to Alexandria. Multiple events with be happening in Alexandria to commence the cherry blossoms' arrival, such as The National Cherry Blossom Festival starting in March. Visit the link for a full roundup of local happenings, retail offerings, and food and drink specials (Alexandria Living Magazine)

Today in Del Ray:

• Introduction To Paper Quilling Workshop At 2704 Mt Vernon Ave (11:00 AM)
• ODDBALL CINEMA At James M. Duncan, Jr. Branch Library (1:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Cora Kelly Elementary has hit over half of its fundraising goal for the March book fair with 10 days left to go. If you're interested in learning more about the school's goal and donation, click here. (Cora Kelly Elementary PTA via Facebook)
• If you're considering adopting a new furry friend, Del Ray area shelters are a great place to start. There are currently thousands of animals up for adoption in the state of Virginia, but these adoptable companions are community locals. (Del Ray Patch)
• Lena's Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap 2nd Annual Meatball Madness returns on Saturday, Mar. 11! Participants of all ages are invited to put their relay race skills to the test in this fun meatball-inspired tournament. (Visit Del Ray via Facebook)
• Campagna Center has announced its Forward Together campaign, a $6.7M fundraising effort that will expand programs and revive South Washington Street in Alexandria to ensure the building supports the quality of services within the community. (The Campagna Center via Facebook)

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Featured events:

• Old Town Alexandria Civil War Roundtable (February 25)
• Alexandria Citizen's Swing Band Spring Fling (February 25)
• 2023 Alexandria Sister Cities Scottish Social and Whisky Tasting (February 25)
• Shoff Promotions Comic Book & Sports Card Show (February 26)
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Alrighty, you're all good for today. I'll see you soon!

— Sean Peek

About me: Sean Peek is a writer and entrepreneur with a degree in English Literature from Weber State University. Over the years, he has worked as a copywriter, editor, SEO specialist, and marketing director for various digital media companies. He currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.