Thursday, July 30
Appetite: Del Ray Boccato to Keep Mount Vernon Avenue Cool in Alexandria
In the dog days of a pandemic summer, a new beacon of cold treats has begun to shine in Del Ray, its light getting brighter day by day prior to its opening in just a few weeks.
Progressive Prosecutors Lobby for Justice
Commonwealth’s Attorneys from Alexandria, Arlington and Fairfax join forces to press for reform.
As lawmakers prepare to return to Richmond for a special session on criminal justice reform, this group of likeminded prosecutors known as the Progressive Prosecutors for Justice will be pushing for a package of criminal-justice reform bills that does not have the backing of the Virginia Association of Commonwealth’s Attorneys.
Wednesday, July 29
Ponds are Popular in Backyards Around the Area
Sometimes a water garden provides the natural setting for fish, frogs, butterflies and birds.
Backyard Ponds
Redevelopment Plans Under Microscope for Belle View Shopping Center
Mount Vernon Task Force delays decision on recommendation.
Belle View Shopping Center
Saturday, July 25
Alexandrians Sit on Edge of Eviction
Unemployment crisis due to coronavirus leaves families in jeopardy.
The impact of the coronavirus with loss of income has led to a roller coaster for many Alexandria families who have fallen behind on their rent.
Mount Vernon Unitarian Church Dedicates ‘Black Lives Matter’ Signs
About 25 members of Mount Vernon Unitarian Church (MVUC) — masked and socially distanced — joined Pastor Kate Walker the morning of July 7 to dedicate three Black Lives Matter signs, one at the drive to the church on Windmill Lane and two on Fort Hunt Road under the directional signs to the church.
‘Titan Oak’ in Danger in Alexandria
Residents rally to save 150-year-old tree at TC.
Concerned citizens and local activists gathered July 21 on the campus of T.C. Williams High School to protest the planned removal of a 150-year-old oak tree to make way for a new concession stand at the school’s Parker-Gray Memorial Stadium.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Citizens’ Expressions of Venom, Ignorance, and Unsupported Statistics
The Gazette published several articles in last week’s edition in which citizens expressed venom, hate, ignorance, and questionable conclusions unsupported by the statistics cited.
Opinion: Commentary: Ongoing Unemployment Crisis in the Commonwealth
I wrote here in May that perhaps the most challenging aspect of the COVID-19 pandemic that was not health related remains the ongoing unemployment crisis throughout the Commonwealth.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: It’s Not Too Late — Or Is It?
Regarding the presumed presidential candidates. we Americans can do better. The parties have better, they can do better. America — the World — needs better.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Going Back to the Dark Ages
With the July 8 decision by the Supreme Court to ban insurance coverage for contraceptives for women, we have gone back to the Dark Ages, where men in management will decide “what is best” for women who work in their offices and in their companies.
‘Cancel Our Rent’ in Alexandria
Southern Towers residents protest eviction hearings.
Residents of Southern Towers apartments gathered July 15 at the Franklin P. Backus Courthouse in Old Town to protest for the cancellation of rent payments and demand an extension to a statewide moratorium on evictions, which expired last month.
Seniors to Protest Via Zoom
Online forum scheduled for July 27.
An online protest for older adults is being planned via Zoom to allow seniors to “gather in solidarity and bring attention to the need to end systemic racism and push for police reform,” according to the event organizers.
City of Alexandria Employee Dies in Car Crash
Robert Bloom was Public Safety Systems Administrator.
Robert Bloom, the Public Safety Systems Administrator in the Department of Emergency and Customer Communications (DECC) for the City of Alexandria, died July 20 after his SUV struck a traffic pole at the intersection of North Kings Highway and Telegraph Road in the Huntington section of Fairfax County.
150 Years of Service in Alexandria
APD marks founding of police department.
The Alexandria Police Department marked the 150th anniversary of its founding with an informal gathering July 15 at police headquarters.
Alexandria’s Irish Walk to Close July 31
Economic uncertainty ends 50-year run.
The Irish Walk, a landmark shopping destination in Old Town for over 50 years, will be closing its doors July 31, a casualty of a string of recent economic challenges.
A Senior Year Unlike Any Other in Alexandria
Recent high school grads, Class of 2021 face college uncertainty amid pandemic.
Senior year, 2020 T.C. Williams graduate Mikaela Pozo applied to 17 colleges.
Continuing Social-Emotional Learning at Home this Summer
Grace Episcopal School may officially be on summer break, but this summer is unlike all of the others.
Robert Bloom Dies in Fatal Crash in Huntington
Detectives from Fairfax County Police Department Crash Reconstruction Unit are investigating a fatal car crash that occurred Monday morning in Huntington in the Mount Vernon Police District.
‘Don’t Replace Natural Resources with Townhouses’ in Fairfax City
City residents weigh in on Northfax West project.
Before Fairfax City Council last week approved the new plan for Northfax West, nearly two dozen residents called in with comments during the online public hearing.
‘It’s a Place Where We Can Support Growth’ in Fairfax City
Fairfax approves plan to revitalize Northfax West area.
It’s been years in the making, and last week, the Fairfax City Council greenlit a sweeping proposal to revamp and revitalize the City’s Northfax West area.
Friday, July 24
Appetite: Say Hello to Hank & Mitzi’s This Month in Alexandria
Soon, the aroma of rich Italian food will once more waft from the corner of Montgomery Street and St. Asaph Street.
Malicious Wounding Charged after Stabbing at Chantilly Church
Fairfax County police have charged a local man with three felonies following the stabbing of an associate pastor, Saturday afternoon, at Grace Covenant Church in Chantilly.
‘An Unmitigated Disaster which Is Entirely Avoidable’ in Chantilly
Plan to build homes under flight path sparks outcry.
Yet another controversial residential project is being proposed for Chantilly’s Westfields area.
Chantilly Woman Celebrates Her 100th Birthday
With her family and balloons, Chantilly’s Juanita Brill celebrated her 100th birthday on June 19.
‘Ugly Consequences’ in Montgomery County
West Montgomery seeks to stem incidents of illegal deforestation that some say is on the rise.
A member of West Montgomery County Citizens Association noticed forest clearing on a lot in the Glen Hills area of Potomac, and reported the incident to County regulators.
Bees, Birds, Photographers Flock to Fields of Sunflowers
Fields of sunflowers will be in full bloom this week off River Road in Poolesville.
Trailer in Potomac Library Parking Lot So You Can Get Involved
Montgomery County Executive Elrich Requests additional time for residents to respond to Draft Environmental Impact Statement for Toll Lanes Study for I-495 and I-270.
Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich, in a letter to Maryland Department of Transportation Secretary Greg Slater, said that the community needs more time to review and respond to the complex and lengthy Draft Environmental Impact Study (DEIS) for the proposed managed lanes project for I-495 and I-270.
Thursday, July 23
Church Damaged By Flood in Potomac
Historic Scotland AME Zion Church hopes to rebuild for the future.
Driving by Scotland AME Zion Church on Seven Locks Road, the building looks pretty much the same as it has for the last 50 years.
Your Discards, Their Treasure
Handheld devices keep older people in contact with healthcare providers, family and friends.
On a recent summer morning, a group of college students gathered to sort and sanitize handheld devices ranging from smartphones to tablets.
To Vote by Mail, You Must Request Your Ballot in Maryland
Your ballot to vote by mail will NOT be mailed to you automatically for November’s Presidential Election. You must request your ballot.
Meetings Move Outside in Time of Covid-19 in Potomac
Potomac Elementary School PTA meets to end one year, and to begin another.
As if anyone needs to be reminded that times are different, consider the Potomac Elementary School PTA meeting Thursday.
Grab Your Library Card and Keep Reading in Arlington
You can keep on reading during the brave new world of coronavirus rules and restrictions.
Arlington Launches Review of Police Policies and Practices
• Fifteen-member citizen group to report back by end of the year
Police Investigate Fatal Pedestrian Crash in Aurora Highlands in Arlington
The Arlington County Police Department’s Critical Accident Team (CAT) continues to investigate a fatal pedestrian crash that occurred on Wednesday, July 15 in the Aurora Highlands neighborhood.
Police Investigate Triple Shooting in Arlington Heights, Make Arrest
The Arlington County Police Department’s Homicide/Robbery Unit announces the arrest of two suspects for their involvement in a fatal shooting in Arlington Heights.
At the Crossroads
Lawmakers to slash the state budget and consider criminal-justice reforms.
The threadbare Franklin and Armfield office on Duke Street stands at the crossroads between racial injustice and economic crisis. It’s a ramshackle building now, but it was once the headquarters for the largest domestic slave trading firm in the United States, present at the creation of the systemic racism that plagues Virginia cops and courts. It’s also the city’s latest acquisition, and the state budget was to include $2.5 million to help transform it into the Freedom House Museum. But then the pandemic hit, and the governor hit the pause button on that line item as well as all the other spending priorities of the new Democratic majorities in the House and Senate.
Fairfax County Pivots Back to Virtual Learning
Superintendent sought Board consensus.
Members of the Fairfax County School Board reached a consensus during its July 21 Work Session and accepted Superintendent Scott Brabrand's recommendation to begin the 2020-21 school year 100 percent virtually.
In Search of Fireflies: She Got a Copperhead Bite Instead
Advice from an Arlington resident and Virginia Herpetologists
It was a beautiful summer’s eve in Arlington last July, and Sara Stepahin was walking with her partner to see fireflies at Fort C.F. Smith.
Wednesday, July 22
Groundbreaking Scheduled for North Hill
Affordable housing project expected to be in tune with the housing needs and EMBARK Richmond Highway project.
North Hill
Combat Reporting Lands Local Resident Marine Corps Award
Jefferson Manor resident was embedded with Marines in Afghanistan.
Local resident gets USMC award
Terraced Garden Becomes a Natural Escape
Springfield backyard brings batches of beans, cucumbers and science lessons.
Garden Classroom
Virginia Adopts First-in-the-Nation Workplace Safety Standards for COVID-19 Pandemic
Gov. Ralph Northam announced statewide emergency workplace safety standards in response to the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19.
Fairfax County Teachers Push for Virtual Start to School Year
Union says it is unrealistic to open school with a hybrid plan.
Two days after the Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) July 15, 11:59 p.m. deadline passed for students, teachers and school based technology specialists (SBTS) to respond to two Instruction Options for the 2020-21 school year, the Fairfax County Federation of Teachers (FCFT, AFT 2401) sent a letter to FCPS officials urging them to switch to 100 percent virtual learning.
Opinion: Column: Growing Pains
After more than six months away from the infusion center, due to the treatment for my papillary thyroid cancer stage II, I make my return on Wednesday, July 22.
Discarded Electronic Equipment Helps Seniors in Need
Handheld devices keep the elderly in contact with healthcare providers, family and friends.
On a recent summer morning, a group of college students gathered in Chantilly to sort and sanitize handheld devices ranging from smartphones to tablets.
Opinion: Commentary: John Lewis Legacy
The body of John Lewis will be laid to rest this week, but the legacy of his leadership in the Civil Rights Movement will live on.
Great Falls Crash Results in Fatality
A man died as a result of injuries sustained in a crash July 14 afternoon in Great Falls.
People: McLean Student to Study Russian on U.S. Department of State Scholarship
Alexander Joel, a rising high school senior at The Potomac School in McLean, was awarded a National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) full-merit scholarship to study the Russian language in Moscow, Russia for five weeks.
Monday, July 20
Two Men Injured in Reston Stabbing
Detectives from Major Crimes Bureau are asking for the public’s help as they continue to investigate after two men were found with stab wounds July 17 around 3:41 a.m. in the 12200 block of Laurel Glade Court.
Food Pantry Shelves Near Empty in Herndon
Demand is greater than supply.
The Northwest Federal Credit Union Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Northwest Federal Credit Union, is out to fill empty tummies.
Finding Family in South Korea Through DNA Test
Kimberly Timora meets via video with biological mother, father, brother, two sisters and a niece.
For Kimberly Timora, taking a 23andMe test was an opportunity to learn more about her traits and medical history, but there was one other possibility she looked forward to the most.
Making Life Easier for Adults With Developmental Disabilities
The Narang Foundation donates $10K to Langley Residential Support Services.
"We feel strongly that every person, no matter their challenges, deserves the opportunity to thrive, and have a support system behind them," said RJ Narang of McLean.
Sunday, July 19
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: New Name: Nolan Dawkins High School
I write today about the matter of renaming T. C. Williams High School.
Dyke Marsh Is Lush and Dotted with Colors in Summer
At the height of summer, many stout, six-or-so-inch green spikes poke out of the water in Dyke Marsh and sport violet-blue, funnel-shaped flowers that clump around the central stem amid the plant’s lance-shaped leaves.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Relearning the Value of Private Charity
The cause behind the "More for Enforcement, Less for Assistance" phenomenon in Michael Lee Pope's feature about Alexandria spending more on policing but less on social services, ironically, is on the very next page.
The Other Alexandria: Betty Garrett Scott: ‘Memories of My Grandfather’
During the Civil Rights movement unrest in the 1940s and 1950s, Betty Garrett-Scott witnessed many historical moments that shaped her life.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Call for Independent Police Auditor; More Data on Police Actions in Alexandria
The Alexandria Human Rights Ordinance established the Alexandria Human Rights Commission (AHRC) in 1975. The Commission comprises 14 members appointed by city council for three-year terms. The AHRC works to ensure, among other things, that Alexandrians are treated fairly and in accordance with applicable state and local laws and regulations.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Rename T.C. Williams NOW
There has been a chorus of support for renaming T.C. Williams High School to remove the moniker of an arch-segregationist who does not represent our values.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Boone-Yoast High?
I recently heard about the effort to re-name T.C. Williams High School.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Confront Hate When We See It and Hear It
The accompanying photograph is of the vandalized memorial to Bijan Ghaisar who was murdered by the United States Park Police (USPP), in November of 2017
Saturday, July 18
Opinion: Commentary: Finally, Respect for Native Americans
This week, the Washington NFL team made an historic announcement that the franchise will finally retire its racist name and logo.
Unsung Heroes
Rotary project raises $16k for local nonprofits.
The Rotary Club of Alexandria raised $16,000 for local nonprofits through its third annual Flags for Heroes program, a display of 200 flags along the George Washington Parkway at Cedar Knoll Restaurant.
Eva Shea to Lead Alexandria Sportsman’s Club
First female president in Sportsman’s Club history.
Eva Shea, a two-time All American and two-time All New England Lacrosse player, has been elected as the 2020-2021 president of the Alexandria Sportsman’s Club.
Alexandria Sportsman’s Club Awards $16k to Student Athletes
TC, Bishop Ireton among honorees.
The Alexandria Sportsman’s Club has awarded $16,000 in scholarships to eight high school student athletes for exemplary performance in athletics and academics.
Goodbye, T.C.
Majority of School Board members support ditching name of segregationist.
Five out of nine School Board members say they are willing to ditch the name T.C. Williams, divorcing the name of a segregationist former superintendent from Alexandria’s only high school.
Obituary: Ron Umbeck dies at 78
Taught mathematics at Bishop Ireton for over 50 years.
Ron Umbeck, a beloved and dedicated educator at Bishop Ireton High school for more than 50 years, died July 13 at Inova Alexandria Hospital after suffering a fall at his home earlier this month. He was 78 years old.
Friday, July 17
Potomac Home Sales: June, 2020
In June, 2020, 70 Potomac homes sold between $2,555,000-$425,000.
Potomac Home Sales: June, 2020
Appetite: Off the Menu: Alexandria Restaurant News Notes
From more ways to get bagels to new restaurants opening their doors to welcoming back an old favorite, there are certainly signs of life amongst the city’s eateries again.
Guilty Plea for Swatting Conspiracy
A former leader of the white supremacist group Atomwaffen Division pleaded guilty July 14 to charges related to his role in a conspiracy that conducted multiple swatting events targeting journalists, a Virginia university, a historic Virginia church — Alfred Street Baptist Church, and a former cabinet official.
Virtual Library Meets Need for Escape for Alexandrians
Hannah Risley, reference librarian, and Katie Whitman, children’s librarian, were quick to start executing their programming in the digital sphere.
Every week, hundreds of Alexandrians have counted on being able to walk through the doors of James M. Duncan Branch Library, a place that has proven to be much more than the thousands of books it makes available to patrons.
Scholarship Fund of Alexandria Awards Over $500,000 in Scholarships to 2020 TC Titan Grads
181 Graduating Seniors receive scholarships to help make their college dreams become reality.
The Scholarship Fund of Alexandria (SFA) awarded $504,000 in college scholarships to 181 graduating seniors from the T.C. Williams Class of 2020.
Rotary Club Honors Fairfax City Educators
Weaver, Borhauer named Teachers of the Year.
This year, the Rotary Club of Fairfax is honoring two Teachers of the Year from City of Fairfax schools.
Fairfax High Seniors Awarded Rotary Scholarships
Six Fairfax High graduating seniors recently received college scholarships from the Rotary Club of Fairfax.
National Artifact Loaned to Suffragist Memorial
Women’s Suffrage reaches Centennial in August.
Last month, the National Park Service (NPS) announced the planned loan of a historic section of iron fence, once used to protect the White House, to memorialize the first group of protestors to stand before it.
Fairfax House Fire Causes $90,000 Damage
Fire officials say an early morning fire last Saturday displaced six people and caused approximately $90,000 damage to a Fairfax home.
Monetary Donations Needed for Fairfax County Students’ School Supplies
More than 30 percent of all children in Fairfax County Public Schools are eligible to receive free or reduced-price meals.
Thursday, July 16
Farmers Market Reopens in Burke
Vendors, customers look forward to Saturdays.
The sweltering Saturday of July 11 was the first of the weekly Burke Farmers Markets since December, where farmers, bakers and chefs came from all over Maryland and Virginia to sell their products.
Area Targeted for Improvements to Include Janna Lee Avenue
Rec center and tech incubator could be the start of more opportunity.
Stabbing on Janna Lee
Discarded PPE Litters Neighborhoods
Disposal of this essential equipment has not found its way into the trash cans in some cases.
PPE litter
Rubinstein Honored as Sully District Officer of the Quarter
It’s pretty special for a police officer to be selected as his station’s Officer of the Quarter.
Montgomery County Public Schools Plans for Fall Opening
Published draft subject to review
Montgomery County Public Schools announced Saturday a plan for reopening schools this fall.
Volunteers Work to Clean Trash Along C&O Canal
Potomac resident Allen Gorrelick runs along the path above the C&O Canal near Angler’s Inn about three times a week.
Potomac Community Village Celebrates Eight Years
Potomac Community Village marked its 8th birthday June 23 and threw a party to celebrate.
Meet Marta Hill Gray, New Executive Director of Culpepper Garden
Marta Hill Gray wears one of her masks as she has her temperature taken, signs in with her own pen and walks through the door of Culpepper Garden on July 1.
What Is the Arlington Public Schools Plan for Reopening Schools for 2020-21?
At the June 25 School Board meeting, Superintendent Dr. Francisco Durán presented the recommended APS plan for the 2020-21 school year based on state guidance for reopening Virginia schools.
AT&T Grants Arlington’s Bridges to Independence $20,000
Others like Joe have a chance to succeed thanks to grant.
Joe is on the autism spectrum and wanted to participate in the Bridges to Independence summer internships initiative.
Man Fatally Wounded in Reston Shooting
Detectives from Major Crimes Bureau are continuing to investigate a fatal shooting that occurred Friday night, July 10, in a Reston apartment community.
Wednesday, July 15
Controversy over Hidden Creek Country Club in Reston Erupts
Stakeholders and county supervisor speak out.
It is approaching three years since Connecticut-based real estate developer Wheelock Communities announced its acquisition of Hidden Creek Country Club in Reston.
Opinion: Commentary: Next Steps: Virginia legislature must take significant next steps in the closing months of this year.
Readers of this column are certainly aware that on more than one occasion I have praised the work of the 2020 General Assembly session as being historic and transformative.
Opinion: Independent Progressive: Highlights and Lows in Reston’s First Half of 2020 Covid
Here we are in July, half way through 2020. Is it my imagination or have these six months been longer than most years?
The Closet Awards Scholarships
The Closet of the Greater Herndon Area, Inc. recently awarded $45,000 in college scholarships to 22 deserving high school graduates at five local high schools.
Protecting Paychecks
Restaurants, lawyers and consultants in Alexandria receive millions in forgivable loans.
Restaurants in Alexandria received the biggest chunk of federal cash from the Paycheck Protection Program, landing more than 200 forgivable loans and saving about 4,000 jobs, according to new data released from the Small Business Administration. Lawyers, consultants and home health care workers also scored big, landing hundreds of loans and saving thousands of jobs. Ultimately, businesses in Alexandria received more than 3,000 loans and preserved more than 35,000 jobs.
Herndon Village Network Continues Services through Pandemic
During the ongoing pandemic, Herndon Village Network (HVN) is continuing to provide its essential transportation services to Herndon senior citizens.
South Block Opens in Vienna
With more than 10 locations across Washington, D.C. and Virginia, South Block has just opened the doors on its newest storefront at 207 Maple Ave. East, Vienna.
Founder of Stroke Comeback Center Retires
Advocacy for those impacted by aphasia continues at the national level.
Darlene S. Williamson, M.S., CCC-SLP, of Oakton, long-term Executive Director and Founder of the Stroke Comeback Center (SCC), recently retired, stepping away from the non-profit organization she launched in 2005.
Vienna Summer on the Green Goes Virtual
Vienna offers a variety of summer entertainment programs on town’s Facebook page.
In the face of a recent COVID-19 pandemic, the town of Vienna did not skip a beat in transitioning to Facebook Live to hold the Summer Concerts on the Green.
McLean and Great Falls Real Estate Market: Home Proves to Be Truly ‘Essential’ in COVID-19 Time
How pandemic has impacted real estate market.
The first half of 2020 has come to a close. At the end of the first quarter, the real estate market was showing a strong opening season.
Masked with Love
Great Falls resident and extended family donate N95 masks to hospital.
David Chien of Great Falls and his extended family who reside in Hong Kong donated 100 N95 masks to Reston Hospital Center.
Great Falls Teen Releases Debut Album
Elizabeth Rothenberger, 16, is releasing her debut EP starting with the single ‘Ricochet.’
Like most teenagers, Elizabeth Rothenberger of Great Falls enjoys listening to music.
Opinion: Commentary: Virginia Commonwealth’s Attorneys Voicing Support for Criminal Justice Reform
We are a group of Commonwealth’s Attorneys who represent and are responsible for the safety of over 40 percent of the population of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Opinion: Column: It's a Twofer
And not just Tuesday, either. All week in fact, I'll be waiting to hear the music.
Tuesday, July 14
Five Fairfax County Graduates Named 2020 National Merit Scholarship Winners
Five Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) graduates from the class of 2020 have been named winners of college-sponsored scholarships by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC).
Look Below the Impervious Surface
The public has 90 days to respond to a proposed $11 billion project that would impact 48 miles of the Beltway, the American Legion Bridge, and land and water below for generations to come.
The risk is $11 billion and contamination of waterways and parkland for generations to come.
Revolutionary Measures in Police Reform in Fairfax County
Calls to 911 could be dispatched differently from the start.
Only 40% of Fairfax County Police officers are currently trained in crisis intervention techniques.
Opinion: Commentary: A Teacher’s Take on the Reopening of Schools
I teach high school English in Fairfax County Public Schools. A number of teachers from across the county suggested I share the following concerns with the community about the plan for reopening schools next month.
Coalition Pleads for Removal of Fairfax County SROs
NOVA Equity Agenda Coalition proposes redirecting of funding to hire counselors.
"While schools' primary role is to serve as an institution for learning, it must also remain a suitable place for young people to mature and sometimes err, without being subjected to the unquestionably perilous path of the criminal justice system," wrote members of the NOVA Equity Agenda Coalition in a July 6 letter to Fairfax County Public Schools Board and Fairfax County Board of Supervisors.
Randolph-Macon Academy Fully Opening for Fall 2020 Semester
Randolph-Macon Academy in Front Royal, Virginia will open for on-campus operations for all students and staff for the Fall 2020 semester. All classes will be held in-person with full course schedules and teacher instruction.
A COVID-19 Summer Gives Time for Reading
From current events to mysteries, books can fill time and lead to lively family conversations.
During a recent 12-hour car ride to their summer home in Michigan, the Leland family finished two books, “Bridge To Terabithia” by Katherine Paterson and Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird.”
Saturday, July 11
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Let’s Have an Ombudsman in Alexandria
Former Alexandria Mayor Allison Silberberg tried during her one term in office to establish a permanent ethics commission. However her “cohorts” on the City Council, refused to support her initiative.
Public Art Installation Opens in Waterfront Park in Alexandria
New exhibit frames 300 years of African American history.
Following delays of several months due to COVID-19 restrictions, the city has formally opened its newest public art installation at the Alexandria waterfront.
Early Morning Shooting Injures Five in Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon Police District officers responded to an apartment complex in the 7900 block of Janna Lee Avenue in Mount Vernon at 1 a.m. July 7 for a shooting.
All Aboard! The Tall Ship Providence in Alexandria
ALL ABOARD! The Tall Ship Providence, a 110-foot, 12-gun sloop of war, is a replica of the first ship authorized to serve in the Continental Navy and John Paul Jones' first American command.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Racism Must Force Us as Individuals to Act
Over a century ago African-American educator and activist, W.E.B DuBois argued the dilemma, "Am I an American or am I a Negro ... does my black blood place upon me any more obligation to assert my nationality than German, Irish or Italian blood would."
Opinion: Commentary: Protecting Our Planet
I hope your Fourth of July holiday was restful and enjoyable, and that you are staying safe wearing your mask in public and exercising prudence through social distancing and good hygiene.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Racial Justice Applied to Traffic Enforcement
An open letter to Alexandria’s City Council Members, the City’s Manager and Alexandria’s Chief of Police: Subject: AFSS statement on racial justice applied to traffic enforcement
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Change T.C. Williams’ Name
Twenty-two years ago, in 1998, Hopkins House asked the School Board to change the high school’s name, but the board declined. Today, we ask again.
17 Companies Join Fairfax County EDA Virtual Career Fair
July 14 event for tech professionals
Microsoft, Amazon Web Services and 15 other leading tech companies in Northern Virginia are bringing recruiters to a virtual career fair that the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority is presenting July 14 to help mid-career tech professionals find jobs.
Masked George and Martha at Mount Vernon
At the visitor’s entrance of Mount Vernon, George and family are appropriately masked.
Health Care Heroes in Mount Vernon
#CAREavanChallenge visits assisted living facilities.
The gauntlet was thrown. ElderTree Care Management Services challenged care providers to get creative and show appreciation for health care aides at local assisted living facilities.
Health Care Heroes in Alexandria
#CAREavanChallenge visits assisted living facilities.
The gauntlet was thrown. ElderTree Care Management Services challenged care providers to get creative and show appreciation for health care aides at local assisted living facilities.
Land of the Free: Alexandria
Homes across the city were adorned with displays of patriotism over a Fourth of July weekend that was more subdued than usual due to ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Friday, July 10
Living Legends of Alexandria: ‘Champions for Children’
Magaly and Tom Hirst
Passionate. Dedicated supporters. Generous. Inspirational. Humble. These are just a few words to describe Tom and Magaly Hirst’s philanthropic efforts to give back to Alexandria through the Mason Hirst Foundation.
Economic Confidence Survey of the Mount Vernon-Lee Business Community
Taking the temperature of the local business community, Mount Vernon Lee Chamber of Commerce surveyed its members to find out how local businesses are reacting to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Food for Everyone During Pandemic in Alexandria
ALIVE! serves as the City’s basic food resource for people in need through many programs targeting specific populations.
Ann Patterson, Food Program Director for ALIVE!, says that the first week after the pandemic was announced, they packed for 400 in their regular food distribution but 1,100 families showed up.
Thursday, July 9
Fairfax City’s July 4th Wave Parade
Since Fairfax City couldn’t hold its usual gigantic Fourth of July parade, with large crowds, this year, it instead held a much smaller parade, traveling through the neighborhoods while residents waved at the participants.
Enjoying the Weekend in Burke Lake Park
Over the Fourth of July weekend, many area residents visited Burke Lake Park to relax, have fun and celebrate Independence Day with friends and family.
Fairfax City Officials Sworn In Online
Meyer recounts outgoing Council’s accomplishments.
Although it had to be done virtually this year, Fairfax City’s Mayor, Council and School Board were officially sworn in last Tuesday, June 30.
Sharing Acts of Kindness
To acknowledge and inspire kindness and good deeds, Volunteer Fairfax has launched the #GoodConnectsUs campaign, recognizing citizens connecting with each other through volunteerism.
Lightning Strike Causes Mount Vernon Hotel Fire
More than 100 hotel guests were in the Woodlawn Court building in Mount Vernon on Tuesday around 1 a.m., but one guest who was outside alerted management to fire on the roof.
More for Enforcement, Less for Assistance
Since the recession, funding has increased for public safety but decreased for social services.
Since the recession, spending on public safety in Alexandria has increased year after year. According to documents from the Virginia Auditor of Public Accounts, that category of government spending has increased 38 percent since 2010 as city leaders increased salaries for police officials and funded new positions at the city’s emergency communications center. But during that same time, spending on health and welfare programs has increased only 12 percent. Spending on social services has actually gone down since 2010.
‘Workers Have Been Hit Hard Financially’ in Centreville
Centreville Labor Resource Center holds a food drive.
For people living from paycheck to paycheck, a global pandemic makes things infinitely worse.
Appetite: Dining Out, Phase 3: Two Restaurateurs Discuss the Latest in Alexandria
Now that Alexandria is solidly in Phase 3 of the Virginia Forward reopening plan, restaurants and cafes are wide open – with social distancing in place – both inside and out.
New Ramp from I-66 East to Route 28 North
The first new exit ramp and bridge for the under-construction I-66/Route 28 Interchange is slated to open ahead of schedule – on or about this Wednesday, July 8.
Children, Bicycles and Patriotism Galore in Centreville
Small-town Americana: To help their residents celebrate the Fourth of July together, Centreville's Newgate community held a children’s bike parade through the neighborhood.
Send Photos for the Pet Almanac
The Pet Almanac, a twice-yearly special edition, will publish the last week of July, and photos and stories of your pets with you and your family should be submitted by Thursday, July 23.
Safe Shopping at Potomac Village Farmers Market
Masks and social distancing are the order of the day on Thursday afternoons 3-7:30 p.m. at the Potomac Village Farmers Market.
Wednesday, July 8
BikeMatchMoCo: Bikes to People Who Need Them
The Montgomery County Department of Transportation has created a new “BikeMatchMoCo” program that is a free service enabling people with extra, unused bicycles to donate them directly to individuals who need a bike.
Montgomery County Councilmember Evan Glass Introduces LGBTQ Bill of Rights
Councilmember Evan Glass introduced the “LGBTQ Bill of Rights,” which would broaden and strengthen Montgomery County’s legal protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer residents.
Arlington Announces Compliance with Virginia Community Policing Act
The Community Policing Act, Virginia House Bill 1250, takes effect July 1, 2020.
Arlington Police Investigate Fatal Motorcycle Crash
The Arlington County Police Department’s Critical Accident Team is investigating a fatal single vehicle crash involving a motorcycle, that occurred on the evening of July 3, 2020.
Arlington Neighborhood Sends Off a New Midshipman
Pandemic precautions color Plebe summer
At 7 a.m. on Thursday, July 2, more than forty neighbors gathered to line North Abingdon Street to send off Shane Tomb as he left to begin his “Plebe Summer” at the U.S. Naval Academy.
Growing, Bagging, Donating—Community Comes Together in Arlington
It is Monday morning, and eight vegetable bagging work stations are located more than six feet apart in the Rock Spring United Church of Christ Carpenter Room.
With 25 Percent of Previous Appointments, PT Offered Outdoors
Join the birds and the sunshine for physical therapy.
Two ceiling fans move the pleasant afternoon air on the front porch of Lisa Shimberg’s house where she has set up a physical therapy bed.
Reston Hospital Center Receives Patient Safety Excellence Award™
Reston Hospital Center is a recipient of the Healthgrades 2020 Patient Safety Excellence Award™.
4th of July 2020 Reston Style
Picnics and fireworks continue.
Official Fourth of July festivities around Reston may have been canceled for Independence Day 2020, but homegrown activities continued.
Opinion: Commentary: Not Over Until It Is Over in Virginia
Hundreds of new laws went into effect last Wednesday. A total of 1,289 new laws passed the General Assembly in its regular session in January and February and were signed into law by Governor Ralph Northam.
Pathway Homes Presents Summer of the Arts Exhibit
Original works available for sale at Vienna Arts Society gallery.
Purple Piece, Organ, Lion Pride, City Lights, Violent Behavior. These are names of some of the 30 works of art presented in Pathway Homes' Summer of the Arts 2020 on display at the Vienna Arts Society gallery, located at 513 Maple Avenue West #1.
Opioid Overdose Prevention System-OOPS
Local students earn top award at global competition.
The Challenge: In Fairfax County, opioids are the number one cause of unnatural death. According to the Virginia Department of Health Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, the proportion of all overdose deaths that include fentanyl and fentanyl analogs is higher in Fairfax than all of Virginia.
Honoring Bob Alden
A community leader who worked to establish the McLean Community Center, McLean Central Park and Dolley Madison Library, died on June 7, 2020.
Robert (Bob) Ames Alden, a community leader who worked to establish the McLean Community Center, McLean Central Park and Dolley Madison Library, passed away on June 7, 2020, at his McLean home at the age of 87.
Tuesday, July 7
Drive-thru Drama Performed in McLean
The Alden Theatre is putting on a Drive-Thru Drama production of ‘Small Change.’
After the end of live performances during quarantine, the Alden Theatre is championing a new form of theatre: the Drive-Thru Drama.
Great Falls: 4th of July Celebration Reimagined
Drive-thru parade underscores the spirit of Great Falls.
The annual 4th of July Parade and Hometown Celebration produced by Celebrate Great Falls Foundation took on a new look in 2020.
Great Falls Park Welcomes You to ‘New Normal’
Great Falls National Park is in full swing for the summer season, and the weekends as usual have been very busy with locals, especially eager this year for something to do after being cooped up from quarantine.
Great Falls Teen Inducted Into Honor Society
Aleena Dawer, 16, of Great Falls, has accepted an invitation for a lifetime membership in The National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS), the nation’s leading certified honor society for high-achieving first- and second-year college students with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA.
Q&A on Back to School for Fairfax County
Superintendent takes questions at Virtual Town Hall.
FCPS hosted a virtual Town Hall Meeting on July 6, to answer questions about its two Return to School Plans: Full-time Online Instruction or In-Person Instruction with Social Distancing.
Send Photos for the Pet Connection
The Pet Connection, a twice-yearly special edition, will publish the last week of July, and photos and stories of your pets with you and your family should be submitted by Thursday, July 23.
Data Proves Black People Treated Differently in Fairfax County
Arrests of Black people disproportional in every police district in the county.
Of all arrests made by police officers in the county, Black people are arrested 38.54 percent of the time. Black people are targets of police use of force 45.63 percent of the time in the county. Black people make up less than 10 percent of the population.
Opinion: Column: Questions and “Canswers”
"Very interesting," to quote Artie Johnson from "Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In," that "crazy-kooky" comedy show from the 70s.
A Summer Oasis
Pool house evolved into a space that incorporates the beauty of the outdoors into the interior design.
Transforming the expansive backyard into a summer oasis by designing a pool and adjacent pool house.
Saturday, July 4
The Other Alexandria: Standing on Historical Land: James E. Henson, Esq.
After the end of the Civil War, George L. Seaton was commissioned by the Freedmen Bureau to build two schools for the education of Colored children.
‘Flags for Heroes’ in Mount Vernon
Hundreds of flags on display through July 11.
A lone bagpiper stood among hundreds of American flags as the strains of Amazing Grace wafted through the air during the opening ceremony of the 3rd annual Flags for Heroes display June 28 at Cedar Knoll Restaurant along the George Washington Parkway.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Failing to Stem Impact of Covid-19 on Vulnerable
Even as many of our leaders emphasize reopening the economy, covid-19 cases in Virginia have fallen only by 50 percent, and Alexandria has more Covid-19 cases than most other jurisdictions in Virginia.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Missing the Obvious?
Michael Lee Pope's article on income gaps misses some obvious explanations. Many minorities are recent immigrants. Do we really expect them to step into jobs with incomes commensurate with Alexandria's 80% college-educated whites?
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Statues for Benedict Arnold
I'm a history buff and have read many books about the Civil War in order to understand events surrounding that tragedy.
Mount Vernon High School Hires Basketball Coach
Mount Vernon High School hired a new head boys basketball coach, Dennis Murphy.
Senior Services of Alexandria Welcomes New Board Members
Senior Services of Alexandria (SSA) welcomed 5 new board members at its virtual Annual Meeting on June 23, 2020.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Not Above the Law
I applaud the effort of the 12 local state politicians to put the United States Park Police (USPP) on notice that they are not above the law.
Opinion: Commentary: Preventing the Callous in Young Black America
Growing up in Birmingham, AL, I recall playing in the basement of 16th Street Baptist Church. The same church that was bombed in 1963 by the KKK, killing four young Black girls and injuring dozens.
Opinion: Commentary: Virginia State Legislature Will Vote on Policing Reforms
The events of the last 60 days have been troubling for America and our community.
Friday, July 3
Opinion: Commentary: New Laws Coming This Week
This week, on July 1st, the Commonwealth will see a host of new legislative changes, over 1000 new laws, as a majority of the bills that the General Assembly passed during the historic 2020 legislative session go into effect for the first time.
T.C. Williams: What’s in a Name?
Efforts intensify to change name of T.C. Williams High School.
When the Disney movie “Remember the Titans” was released in 2000, it brought national attention to T.C. Williams High school. Starring Academy Award winner Denzel Washington, the movie shone a spotlight on the integration of Alexandria’s public high school and the 1971 undefeated season of its football team.
Alexandria Officer Charged for Unjustified Use of Force
An Alexandria Police officer was arrested on the evening of June 30 and charged with misdemeanor assault and battery, for the unjustified use of force while on duty.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Old Town Alexandria Traffic
Although we are gradually returning to normal, I regret to say that some “normal” things are still not acceptable, since the Alexandria City Council and the Police Department continue to ignore enforcing traffic and bicycle laws.
GOP Women of Alexandria Host Douglass Leadership Institute Chairman and State GOP Party Candidates
The Commonwealth Republican Women’s Club (CRWC) of Alexandria met via Zoom to discuss state party candidacies and the recent US Senate primary, and to hear a special guest speaker on African American conservatism.
Reconsidering Police in Schools in Alexandria
School resource officers face new scrutiny during Black Lives Matter movement.
Earlier this year, rising senior Fina Osei-Owusu encountered a yelling crowd while walking the second floor B wing of T.C. Williams High School.
‘It’s Been an Honor’: Trailblazing Judge Dawkins Retires After 26 Years
Nolan Dawkins grew up at a time when Alexandria segregated everything from water fountains to public schools. But he was determined to make a difference, becoming one of seven individuals to integrate George Washington High School in the 1960s, then distinguishing himself as an officer in Vietnam.
Northern Virginia Parks Lure Vacation Campers
Low risk campgrounds open.
Though making safe vacation choices during the Covid-19 pandemic is challenging, area parks are ready to welcome vacationers with fresh air and de-stressing camping opportunities.
‘Because My Skin Is Black, Is My Life Worth Less?’
Black Lives Matter protest in Fairfax City.
Their voices were strong, and their message was clear: Black Lives Matter.
Hiking, Running, Walking
What are the young people doing in pandemic time?
During the months of isolation, many young adults have altered their lifestyles and picked up new hobbies.
Alexandria City Public Schools Serves 30,000 Meals Weekly to Children during Coronavirus
Five yellow school buses and two vans line up outside door 34 at T.C. Williams every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 9:30 a.m. for meal deliveries to Alexandria children.
Community Market Opens in Lorton
Lorton Workhouse Arts Center hosted the first of its weekly Community Markets.
On the warm Saturday morning of June 27, the Lorton Workhouse Arts Center hosted the first of its weekly Community Markets.
COVID-19: Not a Fair Fight in Alexandria
Regional perspective: pandemic exposes health inequality leading up to discrepancies in life expectancy.
In Alexandria, the Latinx population, which comprises 16.8 percent of the City, accounts for 55.5 percent of Alexandria’s positive cases of COVID-19.
Thursday, July 2
Opinion: Commentary: Moving Forward: The Anatomy of Racism in our Everyday Lives
In the past few weeks, many people, especially African Americans, have had to reconcile what they have seen in witnessing the murder of George Floyd and that of their own experience. I am no exception.
Opinion: Commentary: Public Demands Changes, Not Studies and Delays
Virginia Senate Democratic Caucus Police Reform and Criminal Justice Equity Plan
The deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor has awoken Americans and Virginians to long standing problems in policing in America.
Marta Hill Gray Named Executive Director at Arlington Retirement Housing Corporation
Susan Philp, Board Chair of Arlington Retirement Housing Corporation (ARHC), nonprofit owner of Culpepper Garden, announced that Marta Hill Gray was named the new Executive Director of ARHC and will begin on July 1, 2020.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Why I, a 20 Year Old, Decided to Vote for Susan Cunningham for Arlington County Board
This is an extremely important election in our history as a County.
‘The Pandemic Has Really Changed Everything’ in Sully District
Kathy Smith discusses the ‘State of Sully.’
What’s happening in the Sully District, land-use cases and COVID-19’s effects on Fairfax County’s budget were discussed during Supervisor Kathy Smith’s (D-Sully) “State of Sully” talk.
Westfield Grad Receives Sheriffs’ Institute Scholarship
Westfield High grad Michael Corwin has just received a Virginia Sheriffs’ Institute scholarship.
Streets Are For People in Montgomery County
Get outside and play…and eat.
For less than a month, Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) has had a program in place that allows residents to close their streets to through traffic, allowing neighbors to use the street for walking, biking, visiting or just wandering about free of [most] traffic concerns.
Covid Week in Potomac
FIREWORKS? NEXT YEAR: Fourth of July celebrations; “Germantown Glory” and “Mid-County Sparkles” have been cancelled.
Montgomery County Minimum Wage Increases on July 1
The minimum wage will increase in Montgomery County on Friday, July 1, in spite of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Wednesday, July 1
Community Gardener Help with Food Insecurity in Arlington
Arlington food networks work together during coronavirus pandemic.
The South Four Mile Run Community Garden has changed its procedures due to the coronavirus pandemic, but tomatoes and peppers are still tangled with squash sporting yellow blossoms and remains of the sugar snap peas.
Police Investigate Triple Shooting in Arlington Heights
The Arlington County Police Department’s Homicide/Robbery Unit is investigating a shooting that took place on Columbia Pike in the early morning hours of June 28, 2020 that left one victim deceased and two victims with minor injuries.
Need to Intervene in Montgomery County
Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich presented his vision and plans to “Reimagine Public Safety.”
Alexandria Reckoning
Police launch formal inquiry into why Black people make up majority of arrests.
Black people are 23 percent of the population in Alexandria, and yet most arrests in the city are of African Americans. Most cases when police use force are against Black people. Most drug arrests are of Black people. And almost half of the inmates at the Alexandria jail are Black people.
Appetite: Not Ready for Indoor Dining? Eat Al Fresco Here in Alexandria
Here on the precipice of Virginia’s Phase 3 of reopening, most of Alexandria’s restaurants are back to business as usual – within the scope of a major pandemic, that is.
Arlington Playgrounds Are Open!
It’s Parks and Recreation Month. Arlington County just opened the playgrounds, and kids are filtering back slowly.
Plans for Old Mount Vernon High School
Virtual meeting puts educational uses on the forefront for the 1939 building.
Old Mount Vernon High School plans.
The Work of Bees, Birds and Butterflies Officially Recognized
National Pollinator Week notes the importance of pollination to the food chain.
Pollinator week
USDA Coronavirus Program Feeds Many in Springfield
Supervisor Rodney Lusk and Journey Church make it happen.
Food distribution in Springfield
Glam Gowns to Uplift Cancer Patients at Virginia Hospital Center
Elise Yanker Hasenei dropped off a donation of 140 hospital gowns at Virginia Hospital Center recently to bring positivity and aid during this time of need in the midst of the Covid crisis.
Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Alexandria Police Department Has a Systemic Racism Problem
The Alexandria Police Department is one of the most professional and respected law enforcement agencies in the country. And yes, the Alexandria Police Department does have a systemic racism problem within it. The two can be synonymous.