</b>Here are some thoughts on what makes Mount Vernon special:
<b>TRISH FINERAN, Waynewood:
<b>What do you love about Mount Vernon?
</b>My husband and I enjoy walking along Mt. Vernon Trail daily. Everyday it's different; people we pass and greet (other walkers, bikers, runners), changes in foliage, the tides, animal sightings, and activity on the river. We appreciate having the proximity to the more urban areas for convenience (shopping, entertainment, transportation options), but love the tranquility of our community and the friends we have made there.
<b>What "insider's tip" about Mount Vernon would you share with a friend?
</b>Don't miss the Saturday morning Yard Sales! For an adventure, follow the signs ... It's a great way to learn your way around the area and meet new people along the way!
<b>What advice would you give a new resident on how to make themselves at home and get involved here in Mount Vernon?
</b>Get involved; look for opportunities to volunteer through school, church, or the community. It's a great way to meet people and make a difference.
<b>MARYBETH POWERS:
What do you love about Mount Vernon?
</b>The beautiful ride up the parkway from Old Town to Mount Vernon — especially in the Fall.
<b>What "insider's tip" about Mount Vernon would you share with a friend?
</b>Visit Mount Vernon Estates to learn about our history. Enjoy a walk in Fort Hunt Park.
<b>What advice would you give a new resident on how to make themselves at home and get involved here in Mount Vernon?
</b>Become "Friends of Mount Vernon" and if they have children, get involved with the local sports organization — Fort Hunt Youth Athletic Association.
<b>ANN VERNON:
What do you love about Alexandria?
</b>The waterfront and all the streets of Old Town. The fact that it has its own Symphony Orchestra. Market Square on Saturday morning. The Royal Restaurant. Old Town shopping. History everywhere. So Dog Friendly. ) The variety of houses of worship.
<b>What "insider's tip" about Alexandria would you share with a friend?
</b>The birthday party for Alexandria on the waterfront, the weekend following the 4th of July, with performance by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra. Saturday morning Market Square Farmer's Market in Old Town, or Tuesday morning on Sherwood Hall Lane. Mt. Vernon Estate. Visit the various churches.
<b>What advice would you give a new resident on how to make themselves at home and get involved here in Alexandria?
</b>Get on the bike trails, get a kayak for the river, join a tennis club, take a course at the Torpedo Factory, train a Guiding Eye Dog with the local chapter of Guiding Eyes for the Blind. Volunteer at one of the community outreaches, Red Cross, or be a docent for Mount Vernon or one of the historical places in Old Town Alexandria. Become involved in worship, music, and fellowship in one particular church: I recommend Aldersgate United Methodist Church in the Fort Hunt area of Mt. Vernon.