Pat Miller Neighborhood Square Dedicated In Del Ray (Photos)

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Last weekend was a busy one for Del Ray as tens of thousands flooded into town for Art on the Avenue. But it was also a special moment to honor a community member that puts together tons of events like this.

Mayor Allison Silberberg and Alexandria City Council, along with other community leaders such as state Del. Mark Levine and Rep. Don Beyer, dedicated Pat Miller Neighborhood Neighborhood Square Saturday in honor of the Del Ray Business Association treasurer.

The square, which hosts the Del Ray Farmers Market (Mount Vernon and Oxford Avenues), now has a temporary sign in her honor. A permanent sign will be installed after the intersection's bus stop is reconfigured.

Councilmember Del Pepper, who chairs the Facilities Naming Committee, said it's not often a dedication happens when a person is still alive. Miller is an exception in light of all the work she's done for the neighborhood and city.

"We didn't want to wait, for heaven's sake," said Pepper at the dedication. "We wanted to honor her now."

Silberberg called Miller "a phenomenon in our midst" that helped transform Del Ray into one of the area's most desirable neighborhoods. Miller's impact was evident at Art on the Avenue, which has transformed from a small block party to a top regional arts festival that drew over 60,000 people.

"It's such a heartfelt thanks," said Miller. "I am absolutely, totally speechless."

Miller, who has lived in Del Ray for over 30 years, has served as a president of the Del Ray Business Association and served on the board for more than 20 years. She co-chairs the Special Events Committee, planning events such as First Thursday, Taste of Del Ray, the Halloween Parade, Turkey Trot and Holiday Tree Lighting.

She is market manager of the Del Ray Farmers Market, chair of Art on the Avenue and a board member of the Alexandria Police Foundation, special needs nonprofit Kelly Cares Foundation and Community Partners for Children. Miller previously chaired the Alexandria Commission for the Arts among numerous other volunteer roles. She was named an Alexandria "Living Legend" in 2012.

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Images courtesy of the Del Ray Business Association