Active Rain/Tomato Blog

39th Annual Scottish Walk Kicks Off the Holiday Season in Old Town Alexandria

Sat, 05 Dec 2009 18:13:58 -0600

The 39th Annual Scottish Walk kicked off the holiday season today in Old Town Alexandria with the scent of heather and the sound of bagpipes.

Despite a bitterly cold/rainy/snowy day, crowds lined the streets of Old Town to cheer tartan clad residents, tartan clad Scottish dogs - Collies, Wolfhounds, Scotties, Westies, and Cairin Terriers - drum and bugle corps, Scottish folk dancers, elected officials, etc. Basically, if it was Scottish it was in the parade!

Sponsored annually by the Campanga Center , the Scottish Walk Weekend is one of the center's largest fund raising activities and a major tourist draw to Old Town.

Our favorite clan (and there are over 100) was the Hay Clan. As they paraded they would shout out to the crowds "hey" and the crowds would shout back "hey", going on for blocks and never missing a beat.

And our favorite dog? Although not technically a "son of Scotland", a Golden Retriever who carried his stuffed sheep throughout the parade captured out hearts. Available for adoption through the Golden Rescue League, he was a crowd favorite.

The finale of the parade is a a mini concert by three marching bands including the St. Andrew Society, the Fairfax Deputy Sheriff's Coalition Pipes and Drums and the Irish (?) American Band from Euclid, OH.

Cold or wet, it made no difference - it was a parade and Old Town was there to celebrate.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Santa Claus Drops In for Del Ray's Annual Holiday Tree Lighting

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 21:15:15 -0600

Santa Claus made an early appearance tonight at Del Ray's Annual Holiday Tree Lighting. Luminaria lined Mt. Vernon Avenue as toddlers, strollers, parents and grandparents filled the Del Ray Farmer's Market for cookies and hot chocolate provided by the the Mt. Jefferson and Del Ray Citizens Associations.

Neighbors Darlene Vanderbush & Sharon Pearce led the crowd in carols and a specially commissioned police cruiser delivered Mr. Claus to the strains of "Here Comes Santa Claus".

After the community holiday tree was officially lighted, Santa led the crowd down the block to Mind the Mat where he listened to gift requests and took orders for later in the month.

Sponsored by the Del Ray Business Association, the holiday gathering also collected canned goods, diapers and winter clothing for Carpenter's Shelter.

We saw a ton of neighbors including uber organizer Gayle Reuter, Patty Moran, Sheriff Dana Lawhorne and Brett Thompson of Pork Barrel BBQ.

As always, it was a good night to be living in Del Ray.

Michael

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

New Market Reports for Alexandria and Northern Virginia Coming Your Way

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:58:19 -0600

New market reports for Alexandria and Northern Virginia will soon be coming your way thanks to Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. As part of their continual effort to bring consumers the best and most up-to-date information on regional housing markets, Coldwell Banker has completely revamped its monthly market reports.

The reports will now be published on the 5th of the month instead of the 1st to capture the most accurate reflection of sales and inventory. The report narrative will be more extensive and will offer last month, last 3 months and prior year/same month comparisons.Click here for a preview.

I will continue to do neighborhood reports and reports by zip code in Alexandria for an even closer look at local sales.

I'm excited about these new reports and look forward to sharing them with you. Whether you are a buyer or a seller in Alexandria or elsewhere in the Northern Virginia area, it's important for you to be fully informed about the conditions that will affect your housing transaction.

Would you like to receive these market reports for Alexandria and Northern Virginia on a regular basis? Give me a call at 703.927.4554 or email me at michael.bergin2@verizon.net. I look forward to hearing from you.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Alexandria's Waterfront Parks - Oronoco Bay Park

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:07:16 -0600

Oronoco Bay Park is next in our series on Alexandria's Waterfront Parks. Situated just south of the aptly named Waterfront Park, Oronoco is one of the largest waterfront parks at 4.5 acres.

Home to many local festivals, Oronoco Bay Park is perhaps best know for the annual "Red Cross Waterfront Festival" which is the largest Red Cross fundraiser in the country.

The park was once known as “Texaco Bay” and before that it was owned by John D. Rockefeller's Standard Oil Company. The City acquired the property in the early 1980's, developed the park into its present design and changed the name to Oronoco Bay Park.

One of the park's features, in addition to walking and biking paths, is a wooden boardwalk that curves out over the Potomac River adjacent to the rowing facility.

The name "Oronoco" was a variety of tobacco grown in Virginia and the street of the same name was once home to one of Alexandria's first tobacco warehouses.

Even in chilly weather, these pocket parks along Alexandria's waterfront are home to bikers, joggers, dog walkers, and those out for their "daily constitutional".

Michael

Alexandria’s Waterfront Parks - Rivergate

Alexandria’s Waterfront Parks - Tide Lock

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

It's 4:30a.m. and We're Off to the Races!

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 19:42:51 -0600

Virginia and I have been in Southern California since Thanksgiving Day spending a long holiday with our daughter, Taite. We did our fair share of sight seeing on Friday, taking in the sights in Corona del Mar, Newport and Laguna.

It was especially fun since Taite has just gotten her real estate license and we could speculate about pricing procedures, perceived value, locations, etc. The real fun though started Saturday morning with the Turkey Trot Tri.

Taite's boyfriend, Jonathan Pauley (a fine young man who we like immensely) is the creator/owner of Renegade Racing and manages and produces races and triathlons all over Southern California. It was just our luck that one of his major races - the Turkey Trot Tri - a race and triathlon - was happening during our visit.

We were willingly drafted as volunteers for both the 5k and 10k races on Saturday and then the triathlon on Sunday. And that my friends is why I was up at 4:30 a.m. and off to the races.

The races kick off at 8:00a.m. but registration opens at 6:00a.m. and, of course, the "volunteers" had to be there by 5:00a.m. to help get things set up and ready. We traveled about 30 miles north to Bonelli Regional Park, taking coffee and breakfast snacks, bundled to the nines.

I was immediately designated as the race "greeter" - answering questions and helping folks with the registration process. Later I moved out onto the course to make sure the runners were taking the right turns.

There is a ton of prep work that goes into producing a race and learning about it from behind the scenes was fascinating. I have a whole new appreciation for the sport and the folks who make it possible.

The races were fun but the triathlon was amazing. The athletes, women and men, ranged in age from late teens to septuagenarians in all shapes and sizes. First up was the 1/2 mile swim in 60 degree water. Most swimmers wore wet suits but there were those hardy souls who took the plunge in Speedos.

Once out of the water, it was up a hill to the transition area and the bikes. According to USAT (United States Triathlon Association) rules, athletes must have their helmets buckled before leaving the chute but may not mount their bikes until after they leave the chute. Ear phones, for any device, are forbidden and can result in a 4 minute penalty.

After a 14 mile bike ride, the athletes transitioned one more time for the 4.5 mile run. The top athletes do the three part trial in a little over an hour, for others it can take longer, much longer. Watching the sense of pride and accomplishment on the face of each participant was absolutely worth my 4:30a.m. wake up call. Hats off to everyone!

We're heading back to Virginia tomorrow but we'll leave California with great memories and a new found skill - greeter and race course monitor!

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Making My List and Checking It Twice - Books for Holiday Giving

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 18:16:13 -0600

Well, I’ve been making my list and checking it twice and the answer is always the same - books are at the top of our list for holiday giving. Who says you can’t sell real estate and read at the same time?!?

Over the next few weeks, I thought I would share a number of our favorites, in several different categories. I make no claim to having read all of these, just that they are on my list, for giving and getting. Today we are going to start with history books:

Defend the Realm by Christopher Andrew - a fascinating in-depth history of the Military Intelligence [Department 5] originally formed in 1909 to counter the danger to Britain from Germany espionage. Later renamed the Security Service, it is still best known as MI5.

A Country of Vast Dreams by Robert Mercy - takes a new look at the vastly underrated presidency of James Polk. An unabashed expansionist, Polk in one term enlarged the boundaries of the United States by one third. Highly recommended by my barber, Pat.

My Fellow Americans by Michael Woreck - this collection of presidential speeches provides an insightful look at our nation's darkest periods, and the careful words our leaders chose to offer comfort and inspiration, some of which are eerily contemporary.

On Hallowed Ground by Robert Poole - a sensitive look at the storied history of America's most famous cemetery and it's reflection of a country in turmoil over the very human cost of war. Review.

A Fiery Peace by Neil Sheehan - Air Force General Bernard Schriever is the hero in this saga of underdog visionaries struggling to redirect a misguided military juggernaut while building this country's intercontinental ballistic missile program. Sheehan is the Pulitzer prize winning author of A Bright Shining Lie. Review.

D-Day by Antony Beever - combines extensive archival research with a remarkable use of telling anecdotes and is sharply critical of senior commanders on both sides. Review.

Lord of the Sea by John Hale - history and archeology both come to bear in this account of an Athens whose golden age and democratic institutions depended on it's navy. Between 489 and 322 B.C., Athens built, ruled and lost an empire extending from the Aegean to the Black Sea. Review.

When Everything Changed by Gail Collins - women, who once lacked the right to wear pants in public but now take their rightful place on the campaign trail have come a long way and Collins makes the most of highlighting early pioneers in the "movement."

The Imperial Cruise by Patrick Bradley - In 1905 Teddy Roosevelt initiated a series of clandestine agreements meant to secure America's push into Pacific territories. Instead, according to Bradley, he ignited the long fuse of Asian restlessness that would lead directly to WWII. Review.

Have you made your list and checked it twice? If not, I hope this will be a good beginning for your holiday giving.

P.S. We are going to be doing a post about once a week on other categories - biographies, mysteries, cookbooks and children's books so please stop by again.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Temple and Church Share A Thanksgiving Tradition in Alexandria

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 20:48:30 -0600

Tomorrow an Alexandria temple and an Alexandria church will share a Thanksgiving service - just as they have done for at least 30 years.

Temple Beth El and Christ Church Alexandria, once neighbors on Washington St., celebrate each November with a service of remembrance and thanks followed by a reception and hospitality.

The service alternates location each year and tomorrow will see the gathering at Christ Church at 10:00am with both priests and rabbis officiating. Over the years this service - generous in spirit and thanks - has developed a loyal following.

Now located on Seminary Road, Temple Beth El, was the first Reform Congregation in Alexandria.

On a day when we stop to celebrate family and friends and give thanks for our many blessings it is indeed appropriate that the congregations of a temple and a church come together in one of the best Thanksgiving traditions in Alexandria.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Is It Dry? Woodburning Tips for a Great, Crackling Fire

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:15:42 -0600

Ok, so you've done your annual fireplace inspection and now you're ready to buy firewood. Follow these smart woodburning tips for a great, crackling fire

1) Always check your source. Buy your firewood by the cord or rick instead of a whole truckload and you'll get exactly what you pay for. A standard cord of firewood is 128 cubic feet of wood, generally measured as a stack 8 ft. long by 4 ft. tall by 4 ft. deep. A rick is 8 ft. long by 4 ft. tall by the depth of the wood (approximately 18 inches.)

2) Is it dry? Dry, well seasoned firewood, with an average moisture content of 20-25 percent is easier to start, produces more heat and burns cleaner.

Home improvement stores sell inexpensive, hand held moisture meters to check your wood. In a pinch though, you can simply bang two pieces together. If the two pieces of seasoned wood are banged together, they make a "clunk." Two pieces of green wood will make a "thud."

3) Species. Species doesn't matter as much as moisture content. Premium hardwoods are great but softer woods like elm and even maple make fine hardwood as long as you are willing to make a few extra trips to the woodpile.

4) Store smart. Wood should be stored off the ground if possible and protected from excess moisture. Termites will think they have died and gone too heaven in your woodpile so keep only a small amount near your house.

Remember, probably the most important question you can ask is, "Is It Dry?" for a great crackling fire.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

The Last Flowers of Fall

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 14:23:23 -0600

Just four days from Thanksgiving we still have hydrangeas blooming in our front yard - the last flowers of fall. But now, instead of pale blues and pinks, the colors mirror the surrounding trees. We'll cut some this afternoon and enjoy their dried beauty long into winter.

The Last Flowers of Fall

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Saying Goodby to A Kitty Friend - Mr. Mac

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:54:50 -0600

Today we said goodbye to Mr. Mac, our 20 year old 20 lb orange red mountain lion of a cat. We were not Mac's first family but we were his last and nobody loved him better.

Mac came to us after losing his original homeowner to cancer. He made a brief stop at my brothers but another, far less mannered feline, made the situation untenable. Mac moved onto Howell Avenue and never looked back.

He was known to one and all, afraid of neither man nor beast and fairly indiscriminate with his affection. Our next door neighbor reported one day that Mac, sensing a new opportunity, entered an open door and made himself at home in an upstairs bedroom. Location was not a deterrent to a good nap.

A strappingly handsome chap, Mac was stolen one year from our front yard by someone who wanted to give him as a Christmas present. We recovered him, weeks later, only because he had been rescued (yet again!) by the neighbor of the woman who did NOT want him as a Christmas present but saw our wanted poster at the local vet's office.

He loved to eat and expected a full bowl at all times. Chicken was a favorite along with my morning cereal but shrimp put him right over the top. He kept his own dining hours and expected that I would match my routine to his. Not much for playtime, Mac preferred to supervise rather than participate in any activity that required excessive locomotion. That being said, a loose shoe string or belt always got his attention.

Mac enjoyed a good college basketball game and was a Redskins fan but thought golf was a snooze. And NACAR? He didn't give it the time of day. He loved sleeping in the garden, most often under a spread of hostas or on the chaise. He claimed a chair or sofa in each room in the house and did not take kindly to being moved. After all, it was his house and we were there at his indulgence.

He was my constant companion and I will miss him dearly.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Six Things to Check Before You Cozy Up to the Fire

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:49:35 -0600

Winter is fast approaching and there are six things to check before you cozy up to the fire. It's not particularly glamorous or fun but there are definitely things that you need to check out on a yearly basis before you even begin to think about chestnuts roasting on an open fire . . . .

Spring and early summer are the very best times to have your annual fireplace inspection and generally the cheapest. Still, if you've put it off till now it's not too late.

The degree of maintenance will depend on what kind of fireplace you have. A masonry fireplace is one constructed entirely of bricks or stone and mortar and are almost always found in older or more rustic homes. A factory-build fireplace consists of a metal firebox and chimney.

If you are not sure which you have there are a couple of easy clues. First, the hearth or floor of a masonry fireplace is usually constructed of bricks joined with mortar. Factory-built fireplaces use refractory panels made of a pale grey heat-resistant stone.

Look up through the damper - a masonry fireplace will have a large void called the smoke chamber but a factory-built unit will connect directly to a round, stainless steel pipe.

Finally, take a look at your chimney. If you have a square cap or no cap at all, it's pretty sure you have a masonry built fireplace. On the other hand, a round cap is a sure sign of a factory built unit.

Now that you know what you have, let's look at the six things you need to check.

Foundation: supports the entire structure of a masonry fireplace and can weigh several tons

Should be inspected when buying a new home, if you have questions check with a home inspector

Firebox: recessed area where the fire is built.

Are the bricks or mortar loose or cracked? If so, you run a risk of the fire not being properly contained as it burns.
For a factory-built fireplace, look for cracks in the refractory panels. If there are gaps through which you can fit a quarter, then the panels need to be replaced.

Damper: mechanism that separates the interior of the fireplace from portions exposed to the exterior of your home.

The damper must be closed when the fireplace is not in use to prevent heat and cool air from escaping. Before using the fireplace, test the lever to see that the damper opens and closes properly. If must be able to open and stay open for proper venilation once a fire is built.

Flue: passageway through which smoke and sparks are carried up and out.

A flue will accumulate creosote, a natural build up of carbon which can ignite on its own and cause a fire. The flue should be inspected annually (something you can do). Take a yardstick and scrape some of the soot from the inside. If the buildup appears to be more than a quarter-inch thick, then you need to call a chimney sweep for a good cleaning.

Chimney: structure surrounding one or more flues and all related components.

Make sure the roof flashing is in good repair, directing water away from the chimney structure and that masonry chimneys are in good condition with no loose mortar.

Chimney cap: keeps pests and damaging elements out and has a spark arrestor to prevent floating embers from causing a fire.

If you chimney does not have a cap - and many masonry units do not, it pays to invest in one to keep out water, birds and squirrels. A damaged or leaking cap should be replaced.

So there you are, six things to check before you cozy up to the fire.

Wait! You don't have a house with a fireplace? Call me at 703.927.4554 and let's find you one.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

October 2009 Home Sales in Alexandria's Old Town Neighborhood

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:37:53 -0600

October 2009 home sales in Alexandria's Old Town neighborhood show identical DOM (days of market) as in October 2008 and an increase of one in the number of sales.

The exciting news is that the average sold price shows an 8.8 percent increase from $611,462 in October 2008 to $670,236 in October 2009.

This steadfastness in total sales, along with the 2009 price increase, speaks to the overall health of the housing market in Northern Virginia.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Rogue Mortgage Swindle = 12 Year Prison Term

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 08:21:05 -0600

Joy Jackson, a Maryland woman who stole millions from area homeowners in a rogue mortgage swindle has been sentenced to a 12 prison term. Operating out of Lanham, MD, Jackson's scheme touched hundreds of vulnerable homeowners in Northern Virginia, the District and Maryland.

The Metropolitan Money Store promised to help people keep their homes and repair their credit. According to the Washington Post, " the company directed owners to transfer title of their homes to third-party buyers for a year. During that time, Metropolitan said it would borrow against the value of the house and use that money to pay the mortgage and repair homeowner's credit ratings.

It also promised to help owners obtain better interest rates. Instead, Metropolitan siphoned off the equity and Jackson and others spent the cash. The company also stopped making mortgage payments on the houses."

Jackson used the cash to buy jewelry, fur coats and vacations and to cover a lavish wedding at the Mayflower Hotel where guests dined on lobster and champagne and were serenaded by Patti LaBelle.

For a person who preyed on the most vulernable and the least knowledable I'm not sure 12 years is long enough.

Rogue Mortgage Swindle = 12 Year Prison Term.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Blogging the Frugal Life Style in Alexandria and Northern Virginia

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 21:15:29 -0600

Blogging the frugal life style does not belong only to the "experts." Indeed, individuals in Alexandria and Northern Virginia are contributing to the blogging landscape with a wide variety of offerings on how to survive - and thrive - in what some have called "lifestyle deflation."

Some of the blogs are quite professional and have advertisers but most are your basic do-it- yourself blog.

Stay at home moms, young couples and singles all offer their take on making the most of every dollar. Some share month to month grocery budgets, complete with store by store sales while other focus on activities and taking advantage of coupons. Anyway you look at it, its easy to access information that anyone can use.

Here are some of our favorites:

This list is just the tip of the iceberg. Almost all of the blogs reference other blogs so be prepared to spend some time surfing and finding out about the best bargains in the area - it's contagious!

Blogging the Frugal Life Style in Alexandria and Northern Virginia

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Mortgage Rates Show Slight Decrease for Home Buyers in Alexandria

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:45:03 -0600

Mortgage rates are showing a slight decrease for home buyers in Alexandria with FHA, VA and conforming conventional loans in the 5 percent and 0 point range. Rob Clark, our go to mortgage guy offers this observation on the market:

"With limited economic data released last week, mortgage rates continued their recent trend of slowly moving downward. While we continue to see limited activity outside of conforming and FHA-backed mortgages, it is worth noting that jumbo mortgages are beginning to reappear more widely in the market, and the difference between conforming and jumbo rates has been shrinking.

This is a week full of economic data for markets to sort through. With recent signs that the labor market could be hitting bottom, any signal that indicates that the recovery is beginning to power up could start pressuring mortgage rates upward.

Both Retail Sales and Industrial Production are due this week. If these two influential reports show greater strength than anticipated, then the likelihood of increasing rates will grow. However, if they both come in lower than expected, we could see this trend of very slowly decreasing rates continue.

Both the PPI and CPI also are also due this week. If they are near expectations, they will create some additional downward pull on rates."

Next we'll be bringing you up to date information on the extension of the first time home owners tax credit so stay tuned.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Nook - The Latest in E-Reader Technology

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 18:12:50 -0600

What is "nook"? Nook is the latest in e-reader techonology and it's being introduced this month by Barnes & Noble - a reading tool designed by book people for book people.

I've had this post in mind for several days and then tonight just happened on a post by Erica Ramus who was asking about the Kindle so I knew there was no time to waste. In the spirit of full disclosure though, I will tell you that my wife works for B&N so I've been totally indoctrinated and privy to lots of information.

One of the key questions that Erica asked was "Do you miss BOOKS"? My take on this e-reader trend is that it's not about giving up books but simply sourcing them in a different way.

For instance, my wife and I love to listen to books on tape on long car trips. We get to hear something together that we might not ordinarily tackle, she doesn't get motion sickness from trying to read and there are no radio commercials! But when we get back home, yep, the books are still piled beside the bed.

Early feed back from customers coming into my wife's store is that nook will be a life saver for frequent (air) travelers, folks who have downsized or are planning to, college students, and, interestingly, mothers. Air travelers make perfect sense - with all the space and weight restrictions, downloading 10-15 books into 11 oz of carry on is a no brainer.

Folks in small houses or condo's can still buy all the books they want on line and save precious space for that special book on art or travel or that one book beside the bed. College students can download text books - bottom line on that category. And now for mothers. Mothers never know when or where they are going to get 5, 10, maybe even 20 minutes of time to themselves. With nook they can have the morning paper, a favorite magazine or the latest biography right at their fingertips.

Ummmmmmmmmm, that last description sounds like it could apply to real estate agents too. But don't take my word for it. Click here for a complete nook product description and here for a competitive checklist. Price - $259. Click here for a review from Gaget World.

Books are NOT going away but how we use and read some of them may change, just like the changes we have seen in real estate transactions.

Nook - the latest in e-reader technology.

Questions?

P.S. - nook is officially lowercase according to B&N

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

A November Sunday on the George Washington Parkway

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 15:12:13 -0600

On a beautiful November Sunday, the George Washington Parkway was alive with activity - biking, walking, running and sitting on a bench - and wonderfully quiet in its beauty.

A November Sunday on the George Washington Parkway.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

October Home Sales in Alexandria's Del Ray Neighborhood

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 10:39:37 -0600

October home sales in Alexandria's Del Ray neighborhood show a decline in the number of sales from a year ago - 15 in 2008 to 10 in 2009 - but with an increase in home values.

The average price is up almost 9.4% with the average number of DOM (days on market) down from 91 to 50 for the same time period.

These numbers are a good reflection of both the stability of the real estate market in Northern Virginia and the continuing overall turnaround.

Want to know more specifics about October home sales in Alexandria's Del Ray neighborhood? Give me a call at 703.927.4554 or email me at michael.bergin2@verizon.net.

Northern Virginia Ranks at #3 for Nation’s Healthiest Housing Markets

October Market Report for Alexandria and Northern Virginia

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Alexandria's Waterfront Parks - Rivergate

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 17:03:50 -0600

Rivergate, the second in our series about Alexandria's Waterfront Parks, is also one of the smallest. A little less than 2 acres, the park is located at the junction of Madison Street and the Potomac River.

In fact, driving south on Madison Street will lead you directly into a small parking lot for this space. Bordered on the north by Tide Lock Park and on the south by Oronoco Bay Park, Rivergate is a tidy nugget in the linear parks that front the Potomac River.

Although considered a city park, Rivergate is actually owned by the Rivergate Owners Association with permanent public access to the waterfront park area. The land east of the bike path is maintained by the city with an annual contribution from the association.

Rivergate City Park offers cycling, jogging, shaded picnic tables, all important benches for sitting and a terrific volleyball court.

Another feature of the park's location is the Alexandria Boat House, a joint venture of the City and T.C. Williams High School. While the high school boasts a nationally and internationally known rowing program, the facility is also home to Alexandria Community Rowing.

The boat house in an integral part of the Alexandria community and a perfect addition to its waterfront.

This rain will be over soon and when it is, treat yourself with a visit to one of Alexandria's Waterfront Parks at Rivergate.

Related Story:

Alexandria’s Waterfront Parks - Tide Lock

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Flooding Causes State of Emergency in Virginia

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:38:47 -0600

Govenor Tim Kaine has declared a state of emergency in Virginia because of costal flooding. The authorization will allow agencies to take necessary precautions as the state continues to experience the remnants of Tropical Storm Ida and a costal Nor'easter.

Officials anticipate flooding could last through Friday evening as the state experiences sustained periods of rain and storm surges. Conditions were expected to be worst in the Hampton Roads region, including Poquoson and Norfolk, where several dozen residents have already been rescued from their homes.

Alexandria is also vulnerable, especially low lying commerical and residential areas in Old Town and south along the George Washington Parkway.

photo by Joe Gidjunis

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Del Ray's MV Big Flea is Ready for Donations

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 20:35:11 -0600

Del Ray's MV Big Flea is ready to start taking donations for its April 24th sale. Wait. What? You're new to the area and don't know about the MV Big Flea?

Alexandria's biggest charity flea market, the MV BIG FLEA is organized by and supports the Mt. Vernon Community School PTA. Located in the heart of Del Ray, this annual event raises more than $25,000 for PTA projects.

And now that you know - the Big Flea is accepting drop-off donations at its storage site: 409 E. Alexandria Avenue on Sunday, November 22nd--from 1-3pm only.

The MV Big Flea accepts items that have resale value. In recent years, that has included electronics, furniture, antiques, collectibles, jewelry, kids items (toys, strollers), bicycles, household furnishings, sporting goods, artwork, small appliances and more. If you think your item can be resold, we’ll likely accept it.

We’ve also learned that some items just aren’t right for the MV Big Flea. As a result, we cannot accept the following items for donation:

Clothing
Chandeliers/ceiling fans
Large upholstered furniture, beds or cribs
Stuffed animals
Building supplies
Pillows/curtains/linens
TVs (flatscreen OK) or computer hardware
Books (Contact Thom Downing, Friends of Duncan Library, at iuthom@aol.com)

For more information and additonal drop off dates, visit the MV Big Flea's Web site.

Del Ray's MV Big Flea is Ready for Donations

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Alexandria Group Home Residents Aim for Special Olympics

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 17:46:48 -0600

A few weeks ago we wrote about our neighborhood chili cook off and how a particular group of folks had turned an otherwise dismal, rainy night into an unforgettable occasion. Particular because the group all live at the Bellefonte Group Home. The home is a part of the Alexandria Community Services Board and each of the 16 adults has special needs.

In addition to winning the 8th Annual Del Ray Chili Cook Off, the group, self-named "the MOB" (Members of Bellefonte), have set their sights on entering their basketball team - the Wizards - in the national Special Olympics.

The Wizards won the local Special Olympics basketball tournament in 2008. They knew they could do better though and with the encouragement of their coach they set themselves a rigorous training and practice schedule. They also began raising money for entry fees, uniforms and trophies to give out at the upcoming local venue in December.

So far the Wizards have raised $800 through several bake sales, a yard sale and a raffle. They've done this on their own and with some help from their neighbors at Bellefonte Garden Apartments.

But now its time for the entire community to get involved. Last night the Del Ray Citizens Association announced that it would support the Wizards with a community bake sale this Saturday at the Del Ray Farmers Market. There are three ways to help:

Bake and donate - bring your favorite baked goods to the Farmer's Market on Saturday morning to contribute to the sale. Whole pies and cakes, wrapped single serving brownies, a bag of cookies, etc. (please mark ingredients for those with food allergies)
Buy and donate - stop by the Bellefonte Wizard's booth at the market and stock up for the week!
Donate directly - for those without a sweet tooth (or watching their waistlines) we'll collect donations at the booth or you can mail a donation to Bellefonte Wizards, c/o A Show of Hands, 2301 Mt. Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22301.

Several individuals have pledged to match whatever money to bake sale brings in so now is not the time to be shy. This is a great community effort by Alexandrian's, supporting a group home in their bid for the Special Olympics, and another example of why Del Ray is our favorite place to live.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Veterans Day at Christ Church Alexandria

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 14:15:25 -0600

The parish rolls of Christ Church Alexandria, the home church of George Washington and Robert E. Lee, are filled with the names of men and women who have served their country in military service.

From four star generals and admirals to combat pilots and coast guard commanders to privates and warrant officers, they are all part of a great legacy.

To honor that legacy, Christ Church Alexandria celebrates Veterans Day in very special way.

A "wall of heroes" - photos of those who have served, past and present - is put up for all to see. Parishioners are invited to add photos of themselves or family members; a program and reception is presented between services; and a guest preacher offers the sermon.

Past speakers have included Secretary of Veteran Affairs Togo West, Gordon Sullivan, Chief of Staff of the Army,and Ron Nessen, a war correspondent and press secretary to former president Gerald Ford.

Rev. Michael Pipkin

Today's speaker, former Navy Chaplain and rector of the Falls Church Continuing Congregation, brought his very recent experiences in Iraq and at Bethesda Naval Hospital to a welcoming crowd. Rev. Pipkin noted the wall of heroes even as he spoke of the horror and inhumanity that is war and how he remains forever changed by his experience.

My Vietnam days

Thank you to all who have served and thank you to Christ Church for honoring its veterans.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Lincoln Memorial by Moonlight

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:59:20 -0600

One of the great joys of living in the Alexandria/Northern Virginia area is easy access to some of the nation's most famous landmarks. Last night's full moon, rising above the Lincoln Memorial, provided a memorable sight and a great reminder of why we love it here.

A friend of ours, Julie Wommack, took this with her mobile phone on the way to choir practice!

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Alexandria's Waterfront Parks - Tide Lock

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 12:58:05 -0600

The City of Alexandria maintains a series of 14 waterfront parks along the Potomac River.

Each is relatively small but together they form a linear line some two miles in length and are anchored by the Mt. Vernon Bike Trail. Each one carries a marker denoting its hours, size and historical identity. Today we will visit Tide Lock Park.

Tide Lock Park

Tide Lock Park consists of 6.70 acres that are completely accessible to the waterfront and takes its name from an old canal that existed in the 1800's.

The remains of the canal were discovered during the construction of an office building and were incorporated into the design.

These artificial waterways were used to move goods and materials to and from sea going ships. The goods were then transported by canal barges up and down the canal which were controlled by huge wooden locks. The last of the Alexandria canals were destroyed by floods in the early 1820's and were never re-built because the railroads were beginning to take over.

Today there is a replica of the lock and canal which uses many of original canal wall stones and is an integral part of the landscape for the Trans Potomac Canal Center/Savage Fogarty which maintains this property with permanent public access.

Tide Lock Park also includes quiet spots for sitting, an outdoor amphitheater, water features and examples of Greco Roman sculpture. Truly a tiny gem, Tide Lock is a green respite for workers, visitors and residents and one of the things that makes Alexandria a great place to live.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Active Rain/Tomato Blog

39th Annual Scottish Walk Kicks Off the Holiday Season in Old Town Alexandria

Santa Claus Drops In for Del Ray's Annual Holiday Tree Lighting

New Market Reports for Alexandria and Northern Virginia Coming Your Way

Alexandria's Waterfront Parks - Oronoco Bay Park

It's 4:30a.m. and We're Off to the Races!

Making My List and Checking It Twice - Books for Holiday Giving

Temple and Church Share A Thanksgiving Tradition in Alexandria

Is It Dry? Woodburning Tips for a Great, Crackling Fire

The Last Flowers of Fall

Saying Goodby to A Kitty Friend - Mr. Mac

Six Things to Check Before You Cozy Up to the Fire

October 2009 Home Sales in Alexandria's Old Town Neighborhood

Rogue Mortgage Swindle = 12 Year Prison Term

Blogging the Frugal Life Style in Alexandria and Northern Virginia

Mortgage Rates Show Slight Decrease for Home Buyers in Alexandria

Nook - The Latest in E-Reader Technology

P.S. - nook is officially lowercase according to B&N

A November Sunday on the George Washington Parkway

October Home Sales in Alexandria's Del Ray Neighborhood

Related articles:

Northern Virginia Ranks at #3 for Nation’s Healthiest Housing Markets

October Market Report for Alexandria and Northern Virginia

Alexandria's Waterfront Parks - Rivergate

Alexandria’s Waterfront Parks - Tide Lock

Flooding Causes State of Emergency in Virginia

Del Ray's MV Big Flea is Ready for Donations

Alexandria Group Home Residents Aim for Special Olympics

Veterans Day at Christ Church Alexandria

Lincoln Memorial by Moonlight

Alexandria's Waterfront Parks - Tide Lock

Tide Lock Park