Stories for September 2020

Opinion: Commentary: Vote No on Question 1 in Virginia

The proposed process makes meaningful citizen input virtually impossible.

The rhetoric around Question 1 on the Virginia ballot is miles away from the actual redistricting process that would be frozen into constitutional language.

Restaurant of the Week: Dishes of India

Dishes of India provides delicious Indian food for lunch or dinner.

New Beetle Species Named after Alexandria Resident James Sherald

The new beetle is called Cantharis sheraldi Steury.

“I knew the second I saw it that it was none of the species I had ever seen before in the park, and probably none of the species known from the Eastern United States” said Brent Steury, Natural Resources Program Manager for the George Washington Memorial Parkway, a National Park site in Fairfax and Arlington counties, Virginia.

Three Friends Make Three New Friends in Alexandria

Senior Services of Alexandria’s Groceries to Go Program brings people together.

March wasn’t an easy month for any of us.

Name Change for Matthew Maury Elementary?

On Thursday, Sept. 17, 2020, the Alexandria City School Board voted to begin the process of officially considering the request to change the name of Matthew Maury Elementary School.

Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Wrong Approach for Stream Restoration

The biggest problem with the so-called natural channel design approach to stream "restoration" for us in the greater Washington, D.C. region is that it is planned and implemented in completely the wrong places: small order, interior forested, upper headwater streams and wetlands.

Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Public Meeting About Taylor Run

Sign up to attend Alexandria's virtual public meeting about the "restoration" of Taylor Run at Chinquapin Park and First Baptist Church on Tuesday, Sept. 29 at 7 p.m.

Crowds Gather for Early Voting in Alexandria

Absentee ballot requests increase across the state; Alexandria line moves well.

Voters across the state braved long lines and wait times in some places of several hours as early voting began Sept. 18 for the upcoming Nov. 3 general election.

Housing Resources for Those Impacted by COVID-19 in Alexandria

New State Program Pays Past-Due Rent through Virginia Housing

Through a new state program, Virginia Housing is administering relief for renters experiencing financial difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Purchase Bricks for Parker-Gray High School 100th Anniversary Memorial Walkway

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria African American Hall of Fame invite the public to purchase personalized bricks to create a memorial walkway recognizing the 100th anniversary of Parker-Gray High School.

Appetite: 3 Spots for a Warm Meal on an Autumn Day in Alexandria

When the mercury drops on the thermometer, it’s time to seek out a bit of warmth with your meals.

Celebrating National Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month

This month celebrates the cultural achievements and vast contributions the Latinx community has made to society for centuries.

Opinion: Commentary: We Need to Work Together to Avoid a Housing Crisis

On Sept. 1, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced a sweeping federal eviction moratorium for tenants who are unable to pay their rent due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

An Election about Elections

Voters to determine how redistricting works next year.

When Republicans were in charge of drawing political boundaries for the General Assembly and Congress, Democrats supported an amendment to the Virginia Constitution creating a new mapmaking commission. The idea was to take the power of political gerrymandering out of the hands of the majority and hand it over to a group that wouldn’t be quite so focused on screwing the opposition. But then Democrats seized control of the General Assembly, and most House Democrats flip flopped on the issue.

Mobilizing for the Biden-Harris Ticket

Virginia's former Governor, House of Delegate Speaker and Senate Majority Leader at Fairfax County Government Center.

The second and third day of early voting at Fairfax County Government Center brought enthusiastic voters exercising their rights to vote and more.

Getting in Shape at 60, 70 and 80

Starting where you are and staying consistent among suggestions from healthy and fit seniors.

Whether starting a fitness program after the age of 70 or restarting one after raising children and midlife career building, local seniors share inspiring stories of how achieving and maintaining fitness, health and wellness allows them to lead fulfilling, happy and active lives.

Opinion: Column: “Canceritis”

There are two generic types of cancer: the cancer that you have, and the cancer that has you.

Restaurant of the Week: Glory Days

Outside, Inside, Catering and To-Go, It’s Local

Glory Days Grill is a sports themed family-friendly American grill and bar that combines an award-winning menu of freshly prepared appetizers, entrées and sandwiches with entertainment that appeals to all ages.

People at Work: Worlds You Never Imagined Through 12-Year-Old Eyes

How can 12-year-old Sam Morrison pick his favorite place between Paris, the hinterlands of Thailand or the Sea of Galilee?

8th Congressional District Candidate Forum

The League of Women Voters of the Fairfax Area invites you to join its U.S. House of Representatives - Virginia 8th District Candidate Forum, to be held online on Wednesday, Sept. 23 from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.

Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Help Low Income Neighbors

Our low-income neighbors need our support.

Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Another Flooding Incident

As you know, Alexandria had another flooding incident on Sept 10.

Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Paid Sick Days: Necessary Benefit

Your article on Sept. 10 highlighted the ongoing fight for a paid sick day standard for workers in Virginia.

The Search Continues: Sept. 18 is POW/MIA Day

The strains of “God Bless America” were the last words anyone would hear from Capt. Humbert “Rocky” Versace before he was executed Sept. 26, 1963, while a prisoner of war in Vietnam.

Just Say Yes in Alexandria

Monte Durham salon opens in Old Town

Celebrity stylist Monte Durham of TLC’s “Say Yes to the Dress” celebrated the grand opening of his new eponymous salon Sept. 12 in Old Town with a ribbon cutting followed by a reception held at Hummingbird Bar & Kitchen at Hotel Indigo.

18th Annual Arts Festival in Alexandria

New Carlyle location a success with artists.

The 18th annual Alexandria Old Town Arts Festival took place Sept. 12 and 13 in the Carlyle district, one of many changes to the city’s longtime arts festival.

A Chilly Reception in Alexandria

ALIVE! receives donated shipping container.

Mayor Justin Wilson was among those on hand Sept. 14 when the nonprofit ALIVE! was formally presented with a refrigerated shipping container from AMX Leasing, the trailer/tractor arm of Abilene Motor Express.

‘We Will Never Forget’ in Alexandria

City marks 19th anniversary of 9-11 attacks.

It remains the worst terrorist attack in U.S. history: an unimaginable act of terrorism that took the lives of 13 Alexandria residents on Sept. 11, 2001.

Opinion: Commentary: Considering the Role of Law Enforcement

Asking for Council decisions based on facts specific to residents and employees of this city; don’t create a superfluous program in attempt to make an example of our department.

Over the last few months, the role of law enforcement within the community has become a frequent topic of discussion.

Appetite: Calling All Cats: Mount Purrnon Offers Cuddles, Rescue on the Menu in Alexandria

Cat lovers of the region, rejoice: Alexandria’s first cat café is on the loose.

Alexandria Celebrates the U.S. Constitution

The U.S. Constitution will be celebrated in Alexandria City Public Schools during the week of Sept. 17-23, 2020.

The Other Alexandria: Annie Withers’ Losses: Influenza Pandemic

Only Annie Johnson Withers could describe her own feelings when she lost a grandson and two daughters just a day apart from each other.

Pet Pantry’s Doors Wide Open in Alexandria for a Community in Need

Linda Easley didn’t know where to turn.

Alexandria City Council Requires Masks in Public Places

At its regular meeting on Sept. 12, the Alexandria City Council voted 5 to 2 to adopt an ordinance requiring masks in indoor and outdoor public places.

Mask Penalty Indoors, Side-Eye Outdoors

State Senate approves civil penalty indoors, City Council ditches fines outdoors.

Not wearing a mask indoors might get you a $500 fine from the Commonwealth of Virginia, although failing to wear on the sidewalk outside will get you just a side-eye from the City of Alexandria.

Opinion: Column: And So It Begins

Eleven years, six months and two weeks, approximately, after being diagnosed with "terminal" cancer: stage IV non small cell lung cancer, I have begun my treatment for stage IV papillary thyroid cancer.

Kamala Harris Speaks at Fairfax 9-11 Remembrance Ceremony

At Fairfax County Public Safety Headquarters, County Fire Chief John S. Butler stepped to the podium at the 9-11 Remembrance Ceremony to commemorate lives lost on September 11, 2001.

Safe Spaces for Productive Racial Discussions

Components that should be included in effective forums.

As symbols of racial tension and injustice seemed ubiquitous this summer, a group of parishioners at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Alexandria began meeting virtually to engage in dialogues about the thorny issue of race.

Opinion: Commentary: Facilitating Voting, Adjusting the Budget and Tackling Criminal Justice

Over the last month, the Virginia General Assembly has been in what’s called a “special session” to address voting in the forthcoming election, the budget and criminal justice.

Opinion: Letter to the Editor: What Problem is Ban Solving?

To the members of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors who recently voted to move forward on a public hearing for a total ban on firearms in public places within Fairfax County, I ask a simple question: what problem is this solving?

Horses and the People they Help: A Six-Part Series

If you aren't familiar with how horses are helping people, read on.

Horses and the People they Help: A Six-Part Series

‘I Don't Care If the Horse Poops on Me!’

One mom's commitment to helping her son to get back to therapeutic riding.

"When your child is young and has a diagnosis, you try anything," says Rachel Kirkland.

Leading by Example

Equine Assisted Learning teaches critical life skills.

"The ability to be aware to have compassion; to be confident, but not arrogant; and to take joy in helping to create someone else's success."

Talking to Ty

The 21-year-old Paint Gelding is a great listener.

“Everyone gets her. Everyone accepts her. Everyone likes her. And that means a lot, as a parent.”

Turning Possible into Possibilities

When therapy was needed during quarantine, Sprouts provided a way.

“Riding takes my physical therapy to the next level.”

Horses as Co-Therapists?

Introducing Equine Assisted Psychotherapy

"I saw these kids coming from foster homes and oftentimes reading their charts, the amount of trauma and neglect [they had experienced] was horrifying. Where do you even start?"

Horses and the People They Help

If you aren't familiar with how horses are helping people, read on.

Perri Wight Green of McLean was riding horses before she could talk.

Opinion: Letter to the Editor: The Death of a Tree

On Monday, Sept. 2, an “ Eco City” and one designated as “Tree City”, along with Alexandria Public Schools, had a beautiful old oak tree cut down in order to make room for a concession stand at the new TC Williams stadium.

Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Char McCargo Bah: Engaging and Captivating

I would like to commend Char McCargo Bah for the beautiful article she wrote on my grandfather, Wilmer B. Henry.

Senior Academy Fall Session Is Going Virtual

Registration is opened for October sessions.

Senior Services of Alexandria is hosting its Fall Senior Academy virtually via zoom in October.

For Seniors, It’s Their Last First Day at T.C.

Outdoors, some almost-normal activities allow seniors to celebrate the last time they will have the first day of high school, albeit with masks and distancing.

Opinion: Letter to the Editor: ‘Let it Be’: In Support of T.C. Williams

I am writing to comment on this misguided effort to change the name of T.C. Williams High School.

Sweet Surprise: Del Ray Celebrates Ryan Bailey’s 31st Birthday.

The Del Ray community turned out for one of its own Aug. 30 to hold a surprise drive-by celebration in honor of Ryan Bailey’s 31st birthday.

Eddie George to Speak Sept. 16

ASC to Host Heisman winner, NFL great via Zoom.

Heisman Trophy winner and four-time NFL Pro Bowler Eddie George will be the featured speaker at the Sept. 16 meeting of the Alexandria Sportsman’s Club.

Opinion: Commentary: Special Session Looks at Nursing Homes, Reporting Outbreaks, Election Reform

As the third week of the General Assembly’s Special Session draws to a close, several major legislative accomplishments are moving forward.

Little Theatre of Alexandria Presents “Love Letters”

Stars real-life husband and wife team of Steve and Nicky McDonnell

After a few months of being shut down due to Covid-19, the Little Theatre of Alexandria is staging an in-person production of “Love Letters” from Sept. 11-27.

Appetite: Off the Menu: Alexandria Restaurant News Notes

The shift from summer hasn’t stopped progress: A Del Ray gelato shop nears its dawn, a Chinese restaurant in North Old Town makes a foray outside and a hotel restaurant gets a makeover in name and menu.

Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Vote Yes on Amendment 1

As a volunteer over the last four years advocating to end gerrymandering and reform the way our legislative districts are drawn, I wanted to let you know that we have a chance to approve a state constitutional amendment to create the Commonwealth’s first ever redistricting commission.

People at Work: Nothing Stops Music—Even the Coronavirus

MMM meets over Zoom to enjoy classical music.

Victoria Gau sits in her unfinished basement office with the window overlooking the garden with her silk plant from Amazon, new rug and the screen blocking off the stuff she doesn’t want everyone to see.

Opinion: Letter to the Editor: For Some Workers, Nothing Leisurely About This Labor Day

Workers lucky enough to have a job face the double bind of fearing the risk of COVID-19 and being laid off.

There will be nothing leisurely about this Labor Day for many working families, not least for essential workers.

The Fight for Paid Leave

After effort for paid sick days falters, lawmakers move toward paid quarantine leave.

The fight for paid sick days is on hold for now, and advocates have moved to a fallback position for the special session of the Virginia General Assembly: quarantine leave.

Owners of The River Farm Are Looking to Sell

The American Horticultural Society needs the funds; the surrounding community needs the farm.

River Farm For Sale

Opinion: Column: Cancer For Dummies: Me

As I was telling my long-time friend, Rita, over the phone on Saturday afternoon, as a cancer patient – and I know this is going to sound ridiculous, short-sighted and stupid, I am not always forthcoming and honest when it comes to sharing new symptoms with my doctors, particularly my oncologist.

Last Chance to See the ASPIRE HOUSE in McLean

Design showhouse closes on Sunday, Sept. 13.

Designing a dream home can be likened to assembling a haute couture wardrobe.

Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Old Town Alexandria Businesses in Support of the Live Event Industry

Common Plate Hospitality along with other businesses in Old Town Alexandria are coming together to support the Live Event Industry by participating in the Red Alert #WEMAKEEVENTS movement which supports the Bill S3814, the Restart Act proposed to Congress.

The Other Alexandria: Grandfather and Us: Wilmer Benjamin Henry

There are many stories in Alexandria about its past and when the West End of Alexandria was rural.

Above and Beyond in Alexandria

First responders honored in hybrid Valor Awards ceremony.

The Chamber ALX held its 2020 Valor Awards Aug. 27 at the Hilton Old Town Alexandria in a hybrid ceremony that adhered to social distancing guidelines while honoring the city’s first responders for their heroic actions in the line of duty.

Opinion: Letter to the Editor: We Need Help in the Gap

I am writing about the generous services provided to older low income city residents and the lack of similar services for everyone else.

Opinion: Letter to the Editor: Vote Yes on Amendment 1

As a volunteer over the last four years advocating to end gerrymandering and reform the way our legislative districts are drawn, I wanted to let you know that we have a chance to approve a state constitutional amendment to create the Commonwealth’s first ever redistricting commission.

Opinion: Commentary: Physical Activity Important in Virtual Learning

By integrating creative and sustainable practices and programs into the school day, kids feel better, focus better and learn better.

The decision to remain 100 percent virtual as Alexandria City Public School resumes wasn’t surprising, but the official announcement was still a jolt.

Animal Welfare League of Alexandria Awarded ‘Better Cities for Pets’ Grant

The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria has received a 2020 Mars Petcare “Better Cities for Pets” grant for $10,000.

Renaming: Next Steps, So Many Steps in Alexandria...

School administration to start community engagement process before December vote on name change.

Alexandria school administration is taking a different approach to ditching the T.C. Williams name, educating the community to get buy-in instead of just striking the name outright like many other school districts.

Remembering Parker-Gray in Alexandria

Celebrating the 100th Anniversary

In September 1920, the Parker-Gray School opened for African American students grades 1–8.

Things to Know About Coronavirus Testing

If you think you have coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) or have been exposed to someone who was confirmed to have the disease, contact your health care provider or visit one of the testing sites listed here.

Opinion: Commentary: Protecting The Postal Service

Hundreds of calls and emails from constituents urging Congress to stop efforts to sabotage the USPS.

This August the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) unexpectedly became a center of national attention.

Appetite: Off the Menu: Alexandria Restaurant News Notes

From more time to pick up great restaurant deals to lifting a glass at a new outdoor watering hole to carb-loading with thick and chewy bagels, the city is bursting with flavors. Here’s a rundown of the latest news.

Former Lee District Supervisor Joe Alexander, 90, Dies

His efforts in Lee District show signs that will be forever remembered.

Death of Joe Alexander

Impact of Extended Social Isolation on Teens and Tweens

Psychiatrists and psychologists say that missing opportunities to connect with peers can cause long-term damage.

After a summer of postponed vacations, closed pools and limited summer camps, all a byproduct of COVID-19, parents are concerned about the wellbeing of their children.

Virginia Assembly Bills to Protect Right to Vote

On Friday, Aug. 28, the Virginia General Assembly Senate and House of Delegates passed budget bills supporting safe elections during the pandemic.

Opinion: Letter to the Editor: A Time for a Good Gun Safety Law

Back on Sept. 13, 2019, state Senator Scott Surovell, wrote an opinion article in the Connection newspapers about his father and son feeling scared and intimidated by four armed men walking through a farmer’s market carrying AR-15s.

Drop-Box Election

Pandemic protocols rewrite rules on voting.

When absentee ballots are distributed in the next two weeks, voters will have a new option to exercise their franchise: a drop box, which will be installed outside the Registrar’s office on North Royal Street.