Friday, July 29
Alexandria Home Sales: June, 2016
In June, 2016, 281 Alexandria homes sold between $1,795,000-$99,000.
Alexandria Home Sales: June, 2016
Senior Dogs: Untold Stories
Like many geriatrics, senior dogs in our area are illness survivors and living with a range of conditions including arthritis, hip dysplasia and chronic back pain.
Thursday, July 28
Alexandria Column: Youth Education — Keeping Kids Motivated
Commentary-Community Lodgings
Summer is often anything but a vacation for low-income students, according to the National Summer Learning Association (NSLA).
Wednesday, July 27
A Mother’s Grief: Arrest in Hall Homicide
An arrest in Saquan Hall homicide brings cycle of revenge to a close, but no satisfaction.
In the days after Saquan Hall’s murder, his mother, Patrice Hall, learned details about the shooting. She learned how he was shot once, stumbled, fell, and how the man who killed her son came up and shot him again in the head. The details, Patrice Hall says, that no mother should ever have to learn about her son.
New Heights for Alexandria
Impending 355 foot residential tower is just the start for Carlyle’s upward growth.
While arguments rage in Old Town over three- and four-story buildings, at the western end of Eisenhower Avenue the city is moving forward with plans for some of the tallest buildings in Northern Virginia.
Alexandria People at Work: Act, Sing and Dance Through Summer
Michael Page is the Director of summer camps at LTA.
"Everyone ready to go on stage? Awesome!" The Counselors In Training at The Little Theatre of Alexandria Summer Camp have just rolled up the comic strip backdrop of villains and heroes created by the 3-5 grade group. The actors have been practicing giving each other a punch because, “We are superheroes for goodness sake. But we need to be focused so people don't get hurt."
Alexandria Snapshot: For 18th Century Ship
Old Town Civic Association President Yvonne Weight Callahan presents Alexandria City Archaeologist Dr. Fran Bromberg (center) a check for $4,000 on July 20 to help conserve the 18th century ship remains excavated at 220 South Union Street. Laboratory conservation should commence this year and will take several years. At left is Eleanor Green of Alexandria Archaeology.
Alexandria Letter: Change Name of Jefferson Davis Highway
Letter to the Editor
Over the last several months of testimony given before the Ad Hoc Advisory Group on Confederate Memorials and Street names, many chose “history” as their primary community value for the preservation of the memorials and street signs just as they are.
Alexandria ‘Fights the Bite’
The Alexandria Health Department held a community meeting about Zika and mosquitoes on Wednesday, July 20, 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Alexandria Beatley Library.
Alexandria Appetite: 3 Cool Menus for Hot Days
Here are three restaurants to refresh you as the mercury soars.
There’s no denying it: The dog days of summer have arrived in full force. Local thermometers have flirted with the triple-digit mark all week long, and normally bustling King Street has found its sidewalks nearly empty as residents take shelter from the heat. When you’re looking for some cooler fare, try these restaurants on for size.
Tuesday, July 26
Senator Kaine Hosts Interfaith Forum
Senator Tim Kaine spends last day before VP pick showing why Virginia matters.
No one knew it at the time, but Sen. Timothy M. Kaine’s (D-Va.) public appearances moderating roundtables in Northern Virginia last Thursday, July 21 would be his last day of relative political anonymity before being catapulted to political prominence 24 hours later as Hillary Clinton’s pick for her Vice-Presidential running mate.
Thursday, July 21
Alexandria: The Band Plays On
Students, parents, and teachers reflect on music camp experience before Friday’s concert.
On Friday, the George Washington Middle will host a student orchestra and jazz concert. For attendees, the concert will be a free hour of live music. But for the performers, the concert is the culmination of a week of practice and learning at the Alexandria City Public Schools’ music camp.
Alexandria: Market Affordable Homes in Freefall
Tax increases push rent increases; rent increases push out residents.
Alexandria has lost of 8,000 market affordable homes since 2010. Most weren’t lost to dramatic demolitions or fires. They were lost in moments like the one Clifford Wilkening is facing; where an increase in property taxes is forcing the owner of 31 buildings housing 200 city residents to consider his first rent increase in around eight years.
Alexandria People at Work: Walking through City’s History
“There is no real place called Mercy Street although it would have been right there on the 100th block of N. Fairfax Street," according to Meredith Barber, tour guide for DC Military Tours.
Wednesday, July 20
Food Truck Full of Temptations: Ed Hardy
Ed Hardy’s truck has recently been parked in Reston at lunchtimes, but often travels around Fairfax County to feed the hungry.
Alexandria Snapshot: Music Video Premiere
Participants in the Kids Empowering Kids program of the Dream Dog Foundation pose for a photo with Mayor Allison Silberberg June 21 at Samuel Tucker Elementary School’s Empowerment Assembly following the premier of the group’s music video “Cyberbullying – Don’t Do It!” Also celebrating the video screening is school principal C. Rene Paschal, left, and Lorraine Friedman, director of the experiential learning program.
Alexandria: Takin’ It to the Streets
Del Ray Music Festival moves to The Avenue.
Changes are brewing for this year’s Del Ray Music Festival, including a new location and the debut of pop-up beer gardens, a first for an outdoor street festival in the City of Alexandria.
Alexandria: Beauticians, Barbers and Books
Literacy initiative targets youths on summer break.
Local barber shops and beauty salons across the city have united to promote Beauticians, Barbers and Books, a new literacy initiative to encourage children to continue reading throughout the summer.
Alexandria: Making Progress Against Childhood Hunger
Serving up ways to provide food.
“When you look at the big picture of childhood hunger in Alexandria, you almost don't want to tackle it," said Melanie Gray, director of Outreach and Mission at Historic Christ Church in Alexandria. "So we take it one piece at a time."
Alexandria: Cora Kelly Pre-Testing Irregularity Under State Review
Administration takes disciplinary action against principal.
A pre-Standards of Learning test irregularity at Cora Kelly School for Math, Science, and Technology resulted in disciplinary action against Principal Brandon Davis and an ongoing investigation by the Virginia Department of Education.
Alexandria Snapshot: Light on Streets, Not in Trees
City resident Ronald Gochenour writes: I believe that the citizens of the City of Alexandria deserve the key benefits of streetlights — enhancing crime deterrence and enhancing vehicular and pedestrian traffic safety. I have worked very hard to help keep the city safe and the city staff have fought me tooth and nail not to cut trees blocking lights. Lighting is a top priority? That is a joke.
Alexandria: Local Artist Presents First Solo Exhibition
Jerry Loughlin displayed his artwork on July 14, in his first solo exhibition at @Home Real Estate.
Alexandria Letter: Residents Deserve Better
Letter to the Editor
Alexandria is not on the worldwide map of historical significant places by happenstance.
Alexandria Obituary: Charles Somerset Parran
Charles Somerset Parran, 73, of Alexandria and Hillsboro, N.H., died on Thursday, July 7, 2016 at Hillsboro House Nursing Home. Born in Washington, D.C. at Columbia Hospital on July 29, 1942, Charles grew up in Prince Frederick, Md.
Alexandria Obituary: Evalyn Tripp Hutzel
Former Alexandria resident Evalyn Tripp Hutzel, 100, of Medford, Oregon, died July 11, 2016 with her family by her side.
Alexandria Letter: Compile Better Data
Letter to the Editor
When we were surprised by the Bike Share station on S. Royal Street and asked the city why proper outreach and permitting was not followed, it came to my attention what a poor job that some city staff does disseminating data and information to City Council, committees and commissions.
Alexandria Column: America Let’s Do Lunch
Senior Services of Alexandria
More than 10 million (1 in 6) seniors in the U.S. face the threat of hunger and more than 15 million (1 in 4) are living in isolation.
Alexandria Column: The Mailbox
Not unlike a man of like age, it leans slightly as dictated by their common enemy, age. Eight decades will do that.
Finding Echo
From Sri Lanka to Alexandria
On the way to the Metro stop, by the narrow alley way you pass every morning on the way to work, or even from the comfort of your own home you’ve seen your fair share of cautious glowing eyes belonging to one of the area’s many stray animals.
Alexandria: Dropping Off 320 Pounds of Drugs
“Drug Take Back” event collects 11 bags of prescription drugs.
In front of the Neighborhood Pharmacy of Del Ray, residents dropped medication into large clear trash liners within cardboard bins from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 16.
Alexandria: Sharks and Jets Take over LTA Stage
“West Side Story” features a Romeo and Juliet story on the gang-ridden streets of 1950’s New York.
The Little Theatre of Alexandria (LTA) is presenting "West Side Story" from July 23 to Aug. 13, 2016. The musical features a Romeo and Juliet story on the gang-ridden streets of 1950’s New York, dominated by the Sharks and the Jets. Two teens from the warring gangs meet and fall in love, causing tension between their respective friends. Can the two lovers survive when hate and ignorance are unwilling to yield?
Alexandria Appetite: Vola’s Dockside Grill to Bring Classic Fare to Waterfront
The restaurant and bar take the place of the former Waterfront Market near the Torpedo Factory.
Saunter toward the waterfront in Old Town Alexandria and you’re sure to spy progress afoot near the Torpedo Factory. The former Waterfront Market space at 101 N. Union St., closed since last year, is being transformed into Vola’s Dockside Grill and Hi-Tide Lounge, with an aim at opening in August after months of construction.
Wednesday, July 13
Alexandria: 'Escape Room' Trend Continues to Grow
Darren Sonnier was traveling in Prague when he and his wife, Ginger Flesher, decided to do their first escape room together. After a few more, they were hooked.
Alexandria: Changes Coming to Victory Center
Planning approves three additions.
The Victory Center has sat empty and untouched for a decade, but after a controversy over the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) potential move to the site, developers are working to make the complex more appealing.
Alexandria: Transit Improvements Arriving
Governor announces road and rail projects.
The Atlantic Gateway is underway. Gov. Terry McAuliffe discussed the details of the $1.4 billion plan to reform regional road and rail projects at Alexandria’s Union Station on July 8. For Northern Virginia, the program means road expansions and more express lanes, but for Alexandria a big piece of the proposed improvements could be the rebuilding of the Long Bridge parallel to the 14th Street Bridge.
Alexandria: Residents React to Revenge Killing
Police chief says July 2 murder was “street justice.”
The July 2 murder of Saquan Hall in the 1000 block of First Street comes only weeks after the murder of Pierre Clark less than a block away. At a community meeting on July 6, local residents urged the audience to come together. But many said they couldn’t escape the sense that these same pleas and plans had been spoken again and again at these meetings but the violence keeps occurring.
Alexandria: Trying To Ease the Pains of Childhood Hunger
Massive need requires massive effort.
Childhood hunger in Alexandria is just beyond the doorstep. Some of the underlying causes include lack of knowledge about the existence of the problem or the resources available to alleviate it.
Alexandria Obituary: Deborah J. (Dougherty) White
Deborah J. (Dougherty) White died on July 3, 2016, after fighting a courageous battle with cancer.
Alexandria: ‘Not a Box’ Now on Display
New installation exhibit at the Torpedo Factory.
“Not a Box” is the Art League Gallery’s first installation exhibit. All 13 pieces transform the gallery space using a range of materials and techniques.
Alexandria Letter: City Government Extravagance
Letter to the Editor
The Alexandria Bike Share program is a case of a good idea badly executed. No doubt it began when someone decided the public should be enticed to use bikes in lieu of using cars. So far, so good. But when it came time to convert concept into reality, instead of turning to the private sector, it went Venezuela. It became a government-owned venture.
Alexandria Letter: Statue: Not a Traffic Hazard
Letter to the Editor
Members of the Ad Hoc Advisory Group on Confederate Memorials and Street Names failed to ask important questions and gather necessary facts about several essential matters before voting on their recommendations to City Council.
Alexandria Letter: Selling Out The Parkway
Letter to the Editor
The intent and purpose of the George Washington Memorial Parkway (GWMP) was made clear in 1887 by Edward Fox, who, building on the idea that “every patriotic American who visits Washington makes a pious pilgrimage to the home and tomb of the Father of his Country,” suggested that “immediate steps should be taken to make a splendid drive from the Virginia terminus of the Aqueduct Bridge to Mount Vernon.”
Alexandria Letter: Here’s How Citizens Feel
Letter to the Editor
Our City Council hardly hesitates to backhandedly dismiss citizens’ thoughtful concerns about whatever deal-du-jour City Council fancies — Ramsey Homes, Woodbine, Colonial Inn, North Old Town Giant site, hardly used bicycle lanes on King Street Hill, La Bergerie, etc.
Alexandria Letter: Effects of Higher Property Taxes
Letter to the Editor
We have just paid 2016 property taxes on different apartment buildings and the tax increase alone over last year's taxes equates to about an extra $15 per month per apartment unit.
Alexandria Letter: Not Enforcing Zoning Code
Letter to the Editor
Every City Council in the history of zoning laws in this city has sought to preserve and protect the residential character of neighborhoods by implementing and enforcing a zoning code … but not the current City Council.
Alexandria: Opening Day Fire Engulfs Al’s Steakhouse
Fundraiser to be held at Holy Cow July 14.
Al’s Steakhouse, a favorite in the Del Ray community for decades, suffered extensive damage when a three-alarm fire swept through the restaurant July 6, the grand reopening day for new owners Emily Breeding and the Breeding family.
Making America Pokémon Trainers Again
Pokémon Go is a hit in Alexandria.
Across the street from Pop’s Ice Cream, on a path that runs through Oronoco Bay Park, even down the road from the VéloCity Bicycle Cooperative on Del Ray’s Mt. Vernon Avenue — these are all places that digital creatures, known as Pokémon, can appear in the new smartphone game “Pokémon Go.”
Alexandria Mentor of the Month
Lucy on her love for Courtney
My mentor-tutor Courtney McSwain has been with me for over six years. It has been such a wonderful thing. Her program commitment was only one year, but she chose to stay on this long with me anyway. What a precious angel Courtney has been to my life. She’s the best mentor-tutor anyone could ever have.
Alexandria Column: What Would Dr. King Say?
Commentary
Our nation is tragically and inextricably gripped by violence, last month in Orlando, then Minnesota and Baton Rouge, and now Dallas. All of these incidents are unthinkable and heartbreaking in their own way. Our thoughts and prayers go out to those who have suffered in all of these locations.
Alexandria: Learning about Civil War from a ‘Drill Sergeant’
Nine children — eight boys and one girl — aged 9 to 12, participated in Fort Ward’s Civil War Kid’s Drill Day on Saturday, July 9, from 9 a.m. to noon.
Celebrating Alexandria's 267th Birthday
Members of the Alexandria community gathered to celebrate the city’s 267th birthday at Oronoco Bay Park on Saturday, July 9. Spectators were able to enjoy an evening of live music along with birthday cupcakes and a variety of food vendors. The night concluded with a performance from the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra and a fireworks display.
Alexandria Appetite: 3 Restaurants To Help Pack Your Picnic
Running short on time but still want to dine al fresco?
By this point in the year, outdoor movies, jazz concerts, and wine festivals are in full swing. And with the Fourth of July in the rearview mirror, the summer picnic season is well under way.
Tuesday, July 12
Editorial: Be Part of Our Annual Community Guide
Share tips in upcoming Newcomers and Community Guides.
The Connection’s annual Newcomers and Community Guides will publish Aug. 24 with a deadline of Aug. 17.
Monday, July 11
Alexandria: Chamber Names '40 Under 40'
Chamber to honor city’s rising stars.
Forty of the city’s rising stars will be honored July 28 as the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce celebrates its inaugural 40 Under 40 awards program.
Wednesday, July 6
Alexandria Column: Calling All Seniors 60-Plus
Commentary–Senior Services of Alexandria
The Senior Academy is back for its second annual session starting on Wednesday, Sept. 7 at City Hall from 10 a.m. to noon and will continue every Wednesday through Sept. 28.
Alexandria: Levy Joins MercerTrigiani Law Firm
Douglas S. Levy recently joined MercerTrigiani as counsel to the law firm.
Animal Welfare League of Alexandria: Born 70 Years Ago
Founded out of concern for local animals.
Seventy years ago this June the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria was born, and it was one of the first humane organizations in metropolitan Washington.
Alexandria People at Work: One Pint Can Save Three Lives
Robbins manages Red Cross Blood Drive in Alexandria.
It was 12:20 p.m., and donors were starting to line up for the American Cross Blood Drive at Alexandria Chapter House.
Alexandria: Governor Discusses Voting Rights Restoration
Ex-convicts meet with governor to discuss voting rights restoration.
The right to vote is one of the most fundamental American freedoms, and one denied to many Virginians released from prison on felony charges. On June 29, Gov. Terry McAuliffe met in Alexandria’s Northern Virginia Urban League with advocates for the restoration of ex-inmate’s rights.
Portner Brewing Returns to Alexandria
Great, great granddaughters of Robert Portner plan to resurrect family legacy in the city.
Though separated by a century and a half, Robert Portner and his great, great granddaughters Catherine and Margaret Portner have a few things in common.
Alexandria: Bikeshare Installation Draws Local Ire
“I’m not happy when the city is acting as though they are above the law.”
The Capital Bikeshare’s journey into Old Town is off to a bumpy start. While city officials say the Capital Bikeshare has been a success so far, one particular station has incensed local residents who say the city isn’t following its own implementation rules. Residents say their objection to the South Royal Street Bikeshare station has nothing to do with the bikeshare or bikes in the city, but anger over the city installing a colorful sign without any type of approval or public outreach.
Alexandria: Inmates Honored at Ceremony
Sheriff Dana Lawhorne and his staff held a graduation ceremony on June 21 to honor several inmates at the William G. Truesdale Adult Detention Center for their recent educational achievements.
Alexandria Letter: Orphaned Intersection?
Letter to the Editor
If you have ever tried to move through the intersection of King and Union streets on a weekend or holiday, you most likely would comment: “It’s a zoo!”
Alexandria Letter: Re-think Decision
Letter to the Editor
The following open letter is addressed to Mayor Allison Silberberg and the City Council.
Alexandria Letter: Try ‘Quiet Fireworks’
Letter to the Editor
The New York Times recently published an article regarding the popularity of "Quiet Fireworks" in Europe.These are beautiful displays without the loud booms of traditional fireworks.
Alexandria Letter: History Matters
Letter to the Editor
Two articles caught my attention in last week’s Gazette, the first, a report on the council’s decision on the Ramsey redevelopment; the other a letter to the editor in support of maintaining the name Jefferson Highway.
Alexandria Letter: Why Concentrate Poverty?
Letter to the Editor
Your June 16 lead article, “No Vacancy,” is most disturbing. Homelessness is a problem and Bridges to Independence may be an excellent facility, but Carpenter’s Shelter is our primary concern. Your story references an expansion, a 90-100 unit expansion as guided by City Council.
From The Old Town Boutique District: Opening a Business?
Here are a few tips.
When I decided to open a retail store in Old Town Alexandria, I was looking for an opportunity to do something that I loved, be my own boss and be able to walk to work everyday with my dog.
Alexandria Brief: Police Investigate Homicide
The Alexandria Police Department is investigating a murder that occurred in the 1000 block of First Street on Saturday, July 2.
ACCT Presents ‘The Dixie Swim Club’
It's a little "Steel Magnolias" meets "Same Time Next Year" meets "Golden Girls" and "On Golden Pond"
Aldersgate Church Community Theater (ACCT) is presenting "The Dixie Swim Club" from July 8-24.
Tuesday, July 5
Pushups For Charity Challenge Benefits Veterans
Local veteran opens gym, Rebel Fit USA.
Strategies for Preventing Concussions This Summer
Local physician is pioneering traumatic brain injury treatment.
Summer has been dubbed “trauma season” by health care professionals.