Alexandria Times

Vol. 17, No.31 Alexandria’s only independent hometown newspaper. AUGUST 5, 2021 Battle over LEE STREET

Residents divided over petition to rename Old Town street BY CODY MELLO-KLEIN

Residents of Lee Street were surprised to hear a knock on their doors a few weeks ago. Upon opening their doors, residents met Alex Sprague, founder of Reconstruct Alexandria, or one of his volunteers, who were out collecting signatures for a petition to rename the Old Town street. For some residents, the news came as a welcome surprise and a step toward removing Confederate namesakes from the city’s streets and honoring fig- ures or ideas they deem more worthy. For others, the petition represented an attempt to erase the city’s connection to commander of the Confederate Army Robert E. Lee, who grew up in Alexandria and has long been a focal point of the city’s history tourism. Sprague, who has lived in the Carlyle neighbor- hood since 2016, said he was inspired to start Re- construct Alexandria, a campaign to rename streets in the city that are named after Confederate, segre- gationist or controversial figures, after the election PHOTO/CODY MELLO-KLEIN SEE LEE STREET | 5 Residents on Lee Street are divided over whether to rename the street.

ACPS requests INSIDE Heritage private security BAR defers construction on redevelopment site. Proposal follows council’s reallocation of Page 12 SRO funding BY OLIVIA ANDERSON Finance

Alexandria City Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Invest in a 529 college Gregory Hutchings Ed.D. and staff sent a proposal to savings plan. the School Board on July 16 requesting increased secu- Page 18 rity inside school buildings. The report comes after City Council reallocated funds from the School Resource Of- Pets ficer progrm for mental health initiatives. Prepare for kitten season. COURTESY PHOTO Alexandria City High School. SEE ACPS | 10 Page 19 2 | AUGUST 5, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES

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Alexandria police ar- incident, according to the rested Mauricio Urquilla release. Escobar, an 18-year-old On July 29, two officers Alexandria resident, for on foot patrol in the West his alleged involvement in End heard several gunshots So you can try that a shots fired incident that in the 5400 block of Holmes occurred in the 5400 block Run Parkway at about 9:05 new coee shop. of Holmes Run Parkway on p.m., according to the re- July 29, according to a news lease. We’re increasing bus frequency, release. The officers located and improving connections and going Officers arrested and detained two people, in- fare-free! charged Escobar with cluding Escobar, and recov- throwing/shooting mis- ered a firearm, while other Discover the New DASH Network at siles into an occupied responding officers locat- dashbus.com/newnetwork. dwelling, illegal discharge ed shell casings and found of a weapon and drug pos- property damage to a near- session with intent to dis- by apartment building. No tribute, after an investiga- injuries were reported. tion following the July 29 [email protected] 4 | AUGUST 5, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES WEEKLY BRIEFING Mount Purrnon celebrates 180 cats adopted ACPS to require masks for upcoming school year The Alexandria School talking about maximizing Board voted unanimously safety, that would obviously on Tuesday to require that be challenging.” everyone wear a mask inside Crawford said another all Alexandria City Public consideration is that, in the Schools facilities and vehicles fall, schools will be going this upcoming school year, back to five days a week at regardless of vaccination sta- maximum capacity without tus. physical distancing. According to staff, sev- “When we’re not able to eral factors contributed to do that distancing, the im- the universal masking rec- portance of the other miti- ommendation. COVID-19 gating measures really kicks transmission numbers are it up a notch,” Crawford said. increasing within Alexan- Alexandria Health De- dria and, additionally, staff partment Acting Director Dr. said the new Delta variant Anne Gaddy clarified that, COURTESY PHOTO spreads “more easily” among according to the CDC, masked children and adolescents and children who are outside of a Alexandria’s first cat café houses 15 to 20 rescue cats at Originally planned for may result in “more severe” three-foot radius from some- and wine bar, Mount Purrnon, a time, all of which are found a spring 2020 opening, illnesses. one with COVID-19 are not celebrated its one-year anni- through a partnership with owner Kristin Cowan end- Also, according to ACPS considered in “close contact.” versary and a major adoption Fancy Cats and Dogs Res- ed up pushing back Mount Chief of Student Services Gaddy said this applies to stu- milestone on Sunday, accord- cue Team and most of which Purrnon’s opening date until and Equity Julie Crawford, dents, not other adults. ing to a news release. After are taken out of kill shelters. August 2020. Cown regularly ACPS does not collect health “If we discover there is opening during the COVID-19 Whether they are interested organizes special events at information on a personally a case, we’d be looking at a pandemic, Mount Purrnon in adopting or not, visitors are the cat café as well, including identifiable level to monitor three-foot radius around that has helped 180 cats find their able to interact with the cats Jeopurrdy nights, meditation the vaccine status of students case to determine who needs purr-ever homes. in one part of Mount Purrnon sessions and wine tastings, and staff. to be quarantined if they Located in Old Town at 109 and drink wine or grab a bite according to the release. “In trying to figure out themselves are not vaccinat- S. Alfred St., Mount Purrnon in a separate café section. [email protected] who should have a mask on ed,” Gaddy said. and who shouldn’t, we don’t Hutchings said that com- have a system to monitor munications with families that,” Crawford said. “The will start going out two weeks difficulty in monitoring and prior to school starting on enforcing mask policies for Aug. 24. 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LEE STREET FROM | 1 greatness and sadness,” Hol- Street’s name. ley said. “We can only hope Typically, the city re- We can only hope that by preserving of President Joe Biden. that by preserving and pass- quires that 75% of property “I’ve always loved this ing along every aspect of this owners on a street that is and passing along every aspect town for wanting to see history, both the good and being considered for a re- of this history, both the good and changes to what’s going the bad, we might be able to naming sign a petition ask- the bad, we might be able to provide on, particularly with our provide future generations ing for change, according to future generations with the perspective streets,” Sprague said. “… For with the perspective and Tony LaColla, land use ser- me personally, the idea just wisdom required to continue vices division chief in the and wisdom required to continue our feels good enough because our progress towards a more Department of Planning and progress towards a more perfect Union.” we’re doing more than just perfect Union.” Zoning. After the signaturesADOPT ABLE PET OF THE WEEK– Donald Holley, taking out a bad street name. The petition to rename have been secured, the city Lee Street resident I feel like by introducing a Lee Street was started by reviews the application, de- new one we’re starting to Sprague’s friend, Alexandria termines the validity of the send awareness messages.” resident Huayra Forster, who signatures and then goes to makes a decision to adopt or controversial figures. Conversely, several resi- has proposed replacing Lee the council naming com- reject the new name. “It’s essentially the same dents said that keeping the Street with Wanishi Street, mittee, which includes City However, according to La- process, the same criteria, as name Lee Street would signal derived from a Lenape word Council members Del Pepper Colla, the city is in the mid- we currently have, howev- that the city acknowledges for “thank you.” and John Chapman. dle of adopting a separate er the petition threshold is and is engaging with its com- “It’s [been] an entire life- The naming commit- policy for street names that plicated history. long waiting for people to tee reviews the staff report have explicit connections to SEE LEE STREET | 6 Donald Holley, who has be seeing our streets honor- and determines whether the lived on Lee Street since ing an actual tribe instead proposed new name and the 2009, expressed fear that “ef- of these Confederates that former name are appropriate forts to sanitize the names of wanted to take all that free- for a renaming based on a set streets, structures and other dom away,” Sprague said. of criteria. If that criteria is local areas will only diminish Sprague is overseeing the met, the committee passes our ability to learn from our petition process, which, if the application along to the complex history.” the petition reaches the sig- Planning Commission, which “There is no doubt that nature threshold established holds a public hearing and the history of our country, by the city, would eventually makes a recommendation to like the rest of the world, is result in a vote by City Coun- council. City Council holds filled with moments of both cil on whether to change Lee its own public hearing and ~~ Canine Special Health Needs Care ~ ~ Extra patience may be required to adopt Flash. At agePuppies 4, he is require energetic, surgery and sometimes. needs encouragement “Sarah’s Fund” to provides Shelter petsslow with down. needed procedures.

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PHOTO/CODY MELLO-KLEIN “Because everyone Alex Sprague and Huayra Forster started the petition to rename Lee Street as part of a larger effort to deserves a home.” rename Alexandria streets. 6 | AUGUST 5, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES

LEE STREET FROM | 5 son, virtual or a combination dents who contended it’s not Harry” Lee, Robert E. Lee’s that Lee Street was origi- – to explain to the commu- clear which Lee the street father and the ninth gover- nally named Water Street much lower. It’s only 25% of nity why they’re proposing was named after. Many agree nor of Virginia. because, at the time, “it was property owners as opposed a street renaming, provide with the historic record that The Office of Historic Al- next to the water’s edge,” to 75% of property owners.” some historic background, it was named after Robert E. exandria compiled an inven- referring to the Potomac LaColla said. “However, be- take public comment, that Lee and his wife, Mary Anna tory of Confederate street River. The first reference of cause we have lowered the type of thing.” Custis Lee, both of whom names in 2016 and updated Water Street was made in threshold, what we’re pro- The application to re- spent considerable time in the list in June 2021. The list city records in 1760. Accord- posing is that [the applicant] name Lee Street would fall the city, but some argued now includes more than 30 ing to Kaye, the street was hold at least one community into this category, LaColla that the street was named street names that have been later renamed, “probably meeting – that can be in per- said, despite several resi- after Henry “Light-Horse specifically pegged as being in 1870, the year Virginia named after Confederates, was returned to the Union, including Lee Street. The list and also the year of General notes that the street, which Lee’s death.” was originally named Wa- While there is not con- ter Street, was renamed Lee sensus among historians Street “upon the death of about why the street was re- Mrs. Robert E. Lee in 1874,” named, it is generally agreed four years after the death of that the street was renamed Robert E. Lee in 1870. shortly after the death of Local historian Ruth Lin- Lee and his wife. coln Kaye more directly tied As Sprague continues the namesake of Lee Street collecting signatures for his to Robert E. Lee in her 1972 petition, the conversation book, “Alexandria: A Com- around the concept of re- posite History.” naming Lee Street has re- In a comprehensive list of vealed divisions among its Old Town street names and their origins, Kaye wrote SEE LEE STREET | 7

PHOTO/CODY MELLO-KLEIN Lee Street was originally named Walter Street, and then renamed to Lee after the death of Mary Anna Custis Lee, Rober E. Lee's wife, in 1874. WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM AUGUST 5, 2021 | 7

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PHOTO/CODY MELLO-KLEIN Residents on South Lee Street were generally opposed to renaming, although their reasons differed.

LEE STREET FROM | 6 Meanwhile, many resi- “Don’t demonize the dents on South Lee Street people who fought for the residents. Although opposi- have been adamant in their South. They fought for what tion and support are evident opposition to renaming, cit- they believed in, and it was across Lee Street, Sprague ing a broad spectrum of rea- not slavery – it was states’ said he has generally found sons. rights,” Wilbor said. “They patterns among residents on Longtime resident Jona- have a right to decide what the north and south sides of than Wilbor, who has lived they did or did not want to the street. on South Lee Street for do. Maybe slavery was a lit- North Lee Street resi- about 50 years, contended tle trigger for it, but it was dents – and some members that Robert E. Lee is a name not the real issue.” of the business community worth honoring. Civil War historians gen- – overwhelmingly expressed “Lee was a man of great erally agree that while most support for renaming the honor. He was a great war- Confederate soldiers fight- street, according to Sprague. rior, and I’m proud to have ing in the Civil War were “I’ve been waiting for our street named after him,” not slaveholders, since many someone to come and do Wilbor said. of them were young men this,” one North Lee Street Wilbor contested that who had little in the way of resident, who wished to re- the petition was predicated personal wealth, there’s no Back main anonymous, said of the on the “misunderstanding” doubt that the Confeder- to petition. “This is about more that the Confederacy at- acy’s political leaders saw than just a name. It’s about tempted to secede from the protection of slavery as one School what and who we choose to Union not over slavery but of the core reasons for the honor in Alexandria.” states’ rights. war. The soldiers them- If your child is entering 7th grade they selves enlisted for a number must have the Meningitis, HPV, and Tdap of reasons, including the vaccines in order to enroll. Talk to your This is about more than defense of their home and doctor and vaccinate them now! property – including slaves just a name. It's about – from Northern armies. According to the National what and who we choose Park Services’ Appomattox Court House site, “Whether to honor in Alexandria.” their families owned slaves – Anoymous, or not, many believed that Lee Street resident two fundamental aspects of SEE LEE STREET | 8 8 | AUGUST 5, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES

LEE STREET FROM | 7 to,” Adam Goodheart, his- torian and author of “1861,” Southern society, white lib- told NPR. erty and black slavery, were Some residents opposed under threat by a Federal the petition based on the government dominated by logistical complications for the North.” property owners whenever The primary cause of the their street is renamed. Civil War was “the increas- “You have people who ing polarization of the coun- are going to need to change try between the free states their driver’s licenses, and the slave states over change bills over, change issues of slavery, especially their registration, prescrip- the expansion of slavery,” tions, stationary,” LaColla James McPherson, a Civil said. “If you have a business, War historian and author, there’s going to need to be told the Pacific Standard. changes to advertising. All “When you go back and of this takes time, all of it you look at the actual doc- takes money. Some people uments, many people have might not be so happy with said since then that it was the time they’re going to about states’ rights, but re- have to put in or the money ally the only significant involved.” state right that people were Sprague said he is com- PHOTO/CODY MELLO-KLEIN arguing about in 1860 was mitted to securing the sig- Lee Street is famous in Old Town and the region for its Halloween festivities. the right to own what was natures necessary to rename known as slave property — Lee Street, despite opposi- Alexandria’s more compre- In fact, we actually might see for that one,” Sprague said. property and slaves unim- tion from some residents. hensive effort to rename a renaming of Janey’s Lane “… I think this is only the be- peded — and to be able to According to Sprague, re- streets in the city. before we even see Lee re- ginning of a magnificent fight travel with that property naming Lee Street would be “We’re looking at like 30 named because we only need for equality and awareness.” anywhere that you wanted the first step in Reconstruct streets that need a renaming. six or seven more signatures [email protected]

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PHOTO/INSTAGRAM Troy IsLey lost a close match to Gleb Bakshi of ROC, the PHOTO/INSTAGRAM 2019 World Champion for Middleweight Boxing. Noah Lyles (left) and Troy IsLey (right) both T.C. Williams grads, met up at the Olympic Village in Tokyo. Olympian Update Troy IsLey—Middleweight Boxing Round of 32: 5-0 win Round of 16: 2-3 loss

Tynita Butts-Townsend—Track and Field high jump Qualification: August 4 8:10 p.m. Final: August 7 6:35 p.m.

Noah Lyles—Track and Field 200m Round 1: 20.18 seconds Semifinals: 19.99 seconds Final: 19.74 BRONZE MEDALIST

PHOTO/ACPS Left: Alexandria City High School Principal Peter Balas, Noah Lyles' mother Keisha Caine Bishop and Carmen Sanders, campus admin- istrator for ACHS, at the watch party for Noah Lyles' Olympic race.

Above: School Board Chair Mea- gan Alderton and Superintendent Dr. Gregory Hutchings Ed.D. pose at the watch party.

PHOTO/INSTAGRAM Troy IsLey after his Round of 16 loss. 10 | AUGUST 5, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES

ACPS FROM | 1 made in collaboration with included a notice of rights the Alexandria Police De- that would be read to stu- You have, now, the schools According to the report, partment, aim to adapt to dents if they are questioned ACPS stakeholders, includ- new security regulations. by an SRO on school prop- making the decision that ing Alicia Hart, executive “ACPS is adjusting its erty. in some cases involves city director of facilities and op- school safety plans to re- The report highlighted personnel, police officers on extra erations, safety and securi- spond to the loss of the ACPS’ sense of urgency in duty assignments, and the city ty services leadership, sec- SRO program at the high reaching a viable solution ondary principal leadership school and middle schools, with APD as soon as possi- separately making decisions to and student services leader- ” Wilkins said. “ACPS con- ble. remove positions. It’s just not the ship, met to determine the tinues to keep school safety “Please note that this way we make good policy.” consequences of City Coun- and security as a priority decision only affords ACPS cil’s reallocation of funding for our students and staff.” approximately 3 months – Justin Wilson, Mayor, City of Alexandria from the School Resource Council voted 4-3 to establish a contingency Officers program, potential on May 3 to reallocate plan with regards to safe- security solutions and next $789,909 in funding from ty and security mitigations steps. the School Resource Officer for our students and staff crease to ACPS’ operating on traffic control and work ACPS Chief of Staff Ste- program to mental health in the midst of our summer budget to fund additional the perimeter of a school phen Wilkins said that the resources. This money will learning and reopening for “School Security Officers” location. school plans, which are now go toward the creation fall during a global pan- to help offset the loss. According to staff, the of new mental health po- demic,” reads the report. As part of the report, rate for a detailed police sitions, including a men- Born from that meet- Hutchings and staff pre- officer is $50 per hour, and toring partnership coordi- ing with ACPS stakehold- sented three potential se- the schedule for this offi- nator, public health nurse, ers, the report outlined the curity solutions. The first, cer is primarily 8 a.m. to 4 therapist supervisor, three “implications” of the recent Option A, is to supplement p.m. Monday through Fri- senior therapists and a hu- removal of SROs. It cited the loss of five SROs with day. The estimated cost is man services specialist. increased vulnerability at five additional School Se- $72,000 per officer, total- Back in October 2020, school sites; decreased de- curity Officers. According ing $144,000 for both. Both the School Board signed terrence of situations like to staff, the annual cost per officers would patrol the a Memorandum of Under- active threats; potential contracted SSO is approx- four impacted sites – Al- standing with APD to keep increase of calls for service imately $37,000, totaling exandria City High School, SROs in schools. It prohib- from APD to respond given $185,000 for all five. its Minnie Howard campus ited SROs from wearing no SRO coverage; decreased Unlike SROs, SSOs are and the city’s two middle COURTESY PHOTO body cameras and openly police response time to not armed, not law enforce- schools – and provide an Mayor Justin Wilson displaying long-arms and calls for service; and an in- ment officers and their pri- “additional layer of safe- mary responsibility is to ty” by performing random observe and report. daily check-ins at all ACPS Option B would involve campuses. increasing the safety and Finally, Option C, security services budget to Hutchings’ recommenda- include funding for at least tion, is a combination of two detailed police offi- Stop smacking cers, who generally focus SEE ACPS | 11 yourself in the face.

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COURTESY PHOTO ACPS Staff requested the implementation of school security officers and/or detailed police officers to maximize safety. WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM AUGUST 5, 2021 | 11

ACPS FROM | 10 and emotional issues their sion that in some cases in- something we could have children face through the volves city personnel, po- arrived at [in] the conclu- the aforementioned op- prioritization of adequate lice officers on extra duty sion of our process that we tions. mental health program[s],” assignments, and the city had collaboratively,” Wil- “This option would al- Councilor Mo Seifeldein, separately making deci- son said. low for additional SSOs who voted in favor of real- sions to remove positions. APD did not respond to to provide supplemental locating the funds, said in a It’s just not the way we requests for comment in safety coverage and for statement at the time. make good policy,” Wilson time for publication. detailed officer support Many who voted against said. “We make good policy Although council ul- in frequently patrolling it cited both school safety by sitting down at the ta- timately voted during its the exterior of facilities,” and a lack of communica- ble, collaborating, coming budget process to reallo- reads the report. tion between the School up with answers. Had we cate funding for the SRO The divided council Board and City Council. taken the time to do that, I program, a new MOU is decision in May involved Mayor Justin Wilson, think we potentially could currently in the works. COURTESY PHOTO the removal of five SROs who voted against reallo- have ended up in a much ACPS met with APD leader- Superintendent Dr. Gregory Hutch- from Alexandria City High cating the SRO funding, better place.” ship on June 10 to discuss a ings Ed.D. School, Francis C. Ham- told the Times that the pro- Of the three proposed revised MOU that incorpo- mond Middle School and cess was uncollaborative options, Wilson said he rates the new proposed op- student services and equi- George Washington Middle and disjointed, with coun- didn’t want to “put [his] tions, information on calls ty. School. Many who support- cil using a “sledgehammer” finger on the scale” but re- for service procedures and According to staff, the ed the program’s removal to override the board’s ini- iterated his opposition to the continued use of the hope is to accomplish this argued that it perpetuates tial 6-3 vote to keep the cutting the APD headcount Law Enforcement Occur- by the end of August. harm to students of color program intact. and dissatisfaction with rence Reporting Form. “Supplementing the and students with disabil- Wilson said he main- the overall situation. Next steps for ACPS in- SRO program with addi- ities. tains his initial stance, “The reality is that you clude updating the Student tional SSOs will provide “We hope to send a clear noting that ACPS staff’s look at one of these op- Code of Conduct to in- some safety and coverage message to the parents of most recent request is part tions – it could be that they clude a new administrative and help deter potential the children in our com- of the ongoing mission to have Alexandria police pa- process for responding to safety issues in the absence munity that we are serious keep students safe. trolling the perimeter of events that warrant police of the SRO program,” reads about dealing with the myr- “You have, now, the the building and things like support, an effort that will the report. iad of social, psychological schools making the deci- that – that could have been be led by the department of [email protected]

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Call Babs to preview this fine residence and put her expertise to work for you! cell 703.627.5421 | OldTownAlexandriaLiving.com | [email protected] 109 S. Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 | 703.549.9292 | Equal Housing Opportunity 12 | AUGUST 5, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES BAR defers decision on Heritage construction Board of Architectural BAR initially approved review process, BAR mem- Review pushed deci- the developer’s request to bers rejected the applicant’s sion on redevlopment demolish the existing build- renderings of the develop- to September ings in September 2020, a ment and criticized the ar- BY KATHERINE HAPGOOD decision which was appealed chitect’s plans. During the by residents in Old Town July 15, 2020 concept review, The Board of Architec- and near the property. City BAR members specifically tural Review deferred a de- Council then upheld the ap- directed the developer and cision on the Certificate of proval for demolition in Oc- architect to alter the devel- Appropriateness for con- tober 2020. opment’s design so that it struction of the controver- However, the BAR ap- was more in line with the sial redevelopment at the proval process was not en- neighborhood’s height, scale Heritage at Old Town apart- tirely smooth sailing for de- and architectural character. ments during a meeting on veloper Heritage at Old Town When the developer and July 29. PropCo. The applicant pre- architect brought revised The development, which sented four concept reviews plans to the board on Sept. would take place at 431 S. before BAR in July 2020, 2, 2020, board members said Columbus St., 416 S. Alfred September 2020, October little had changed. St., 900 Wolfe St. and 450 S. 2020 and December 2020. During the most recent Patrick St, will involve tear- Staff from Old and Historic BAR meeting, board member ing down the Heritage’s pre- Alexandria also “attended Lynn Neihardt again argued vious 244-unit apartment several working sessions to that few substantial chang- complex and replacing it review the proposed design es have been made over the with a 750-unit, seven-story and provide feedback,” ac- past year. building. The new develop- cording to the Old and His- “I have seen rendition af- ment will include 195 units toric Alexandria staff report ter rendition where it is dif- of committed affordable from July 29, 2021. housing. Previously in the concept SEE HERITAGE | 13

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PHOTO/ASLAND CAPITAL MANAGEMENT Renderings of the South Patrick Street portion of the project, with top being the rendering prior to the July 29 meeting, and the bottom being the current rendering. WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM AUGUST 5, 2021 | 13

HERITAGE FROM | 12 that the project would pro- vide, many other residents ficult to truly see the differ- have consistently expressed ence between the prior and concern about the size and the current and have had scale of the proposed proj- to flip back and forth from ect. Prior to the July 29 page to page,” Neihardt said. meeting, 14 residents sent Other board members ex- letters and emails to the pressed concerns that their board expressing their opin- prior critiques regarding the ions that the board deny the size of the proposed seven project, with the main rea- story project had not been sons cited as size and scale, addressed. Most buildings and the monolithic design. in the area of the proposed “The changes made af- project are four stories tall, ter all this commentary, not with the largest being six significant. … This project stories tall. is a massive overreach going “We’ve had five or six beyond anything now built meetings about this project, in the Route 1 North can- and I’m empathetic for the yon,” resident Yvonne Cal- community that the proj- lahan, vice president of the PHOTO/ASLAND CAPITAL MANAGEMENT ect is far larger than code,” Old Town Civic Association, The massing of the project in the context of the rest of the area. board member Robert Ad- said during the meeting. ams said. “It’s overreaching; According to Christine with something that better the applicants who come After denial, the applicant it’s not in context with the Roberts, chair of BAR, the reflects the board’s feed- before us for Certificate of could go before City Coun- size and scale of the envi- board’s practice is to give back. Appropriateness, and we cil with three potential ronment.” first time Certificate of Ap- “We would be going be- give them a chance to come outcomes: Council denies Although residents of the propriateness applicants yond our precedent if we go back,” Roberts said. the application, council ap- Heritage and other residents that the board would oth- ahead and deny this without Members were concerned proves the application or of the city supported the in- erwise deny, the opportuni- giving lead for a referral. We with potential repercussions crease in affordable housing ty to come back before BAR are generally very giving to if BAR denied the certificate. SEE HERITAGE | 16 Did you know?

18 days Baby’s heart begins to beat 43 days Brain coordinates movement 8 weeks All organs are functioning 9 weeks Has permanent, individual fingerprints 10 weeks Baby can feel sense of comfort/pain 11 weeks Baby can smile & suck his/her thumb Over 2 million couples wait to adopt—including children of all races & those with special needs

Any textbook will confirm what every doctor knows: LIFE BEGINS AT CONCEPTION P r o l i f e a c r o s s a m e r i c a . o r g ( 7 0 3 ) 7 8 0 - 4 7 0 0 14 | AUGUST 5, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM AUGUST 5, 2021 | 15

This commemorative broadside is dedicated to the memory of Benjamin Thomas who was lynched at the corner of King and Fairfax streets, just opposite Market Square, on Aug. 8, 1899.

His torture and murder at age 16 a fair trial and protection, his death racial terror and work toward racial pillar has two names on it. The first House and the lynching location at and pledged their commitment to so- was one of thousands of racially mo- is a sad counterpoint to the freedom equity and social justice. The EJI me- is Joseph McCoy, who was lynched the corner of King and South Fairfax cial and restorative justice in the city. tivated lynchings that occurred in his family had gained only 30 years morial includes more than 800 steel on April 23, 1897. The second is Ben- Streets will be illuminated in purple Many serve on committees and have the United States. In the Common- before. monuments, or pillars, one for each jamin Thomas. to mark this solemn historical event. been working via Zoom this year on wealth, between 1882 and 1968, there The mayor and City Council estab- county in the United States where a On Aug. 8, 2021, at 7 p.m. on Market A special Alexandria Community Re- the research, marker, pilgrimage and were 100 documented lynchings, 11 of lished the Alexandria Community Re- lynching took place, with the names Square, Alexandria as a community membrance Project marker will be education committees. If you would them in Northern Virginia. membrance Project in 2019, inspired of the lynching victims engraved on will gather to remember the life of dedicated on the lamp post at King like to actively participate on a com- Benjamin Thomas, an Alexan- by the Equal Justice Initiative’s Na- the pillars. A goal of the Community Benjamin Thomas. Please join us in and South Fairfax streets. mittee, attend lectures, or just learn dria native living in this city with his tional Memorial for Peace and Justice Remembrance Project is to bring Al- person for this important reflection. More than 300 Alexandria resi- about the current initiatives, please family, deserved much more from in Montgomery, Alabama, to help our exandria’s pillar to the city and dis- All weekend, Alexandria’s City Hall, dents have joined the Alexandria sign up for the monthly newsletter at his community. Denied the right to community understand its history of play it in a prominent location. The the Masonic Memorial, the Carlyle Community Remembrance Project Alexandriava.gov/Historic.

old white girl. He denied the allegations. Alfred Mason the street. and the site of the lynching. White sightse- responsible for Thomas’ murder. More In the lynching’s aftermath, the com- Harry McDonald Many white newspapers praised the ac- ers, revelers and even groups of young boys than a dozen Black men had been arrested munity generally acknowledged that he John Nelson tions of the police in defending Thomas. and girls gathered there. for protecting him on the night of Aug. 8, was not guilty of these charges. However, other reports suggested that not Thomas’ body was taken to Demaine’s but not a single white citizen was charged After his arrest, Thomas was detained at Edward Payne enough was done to prevent the mob from Funeral Home on King Street, where it was with his murder the next night. the Alexandria Police Station House at 126 James B. Turley breaching the jail. John Craven, a white cit- visited by hundreds. This did not include N. Fairfax St., on the east side of City Hall Richard Washington izen, claimed that at least one officer was his mother Elizabeth who, according to the The research and writing of this narrative by Market Square. Alexandria’s Black com- William Washington anxious for the lynching to happen and Evening Star “could not bear to look upon was created by the Research Committee of the munity soon became aware of the arrest John Wilson that Police Chief Webster did not make an her boy.” At 10 a.m. on Aug. 10, Thomas was Alexandria Community Remembrance Project. and the nature of the accusations against earnest effort to repel the mob. interred at Penny Hill Cemetery. On Aug. We invite you to read the full narrative and learn Thomas. Just two years earlier, a white mob The next morning, most of these men The hooting and jeering mob dragged 28, a memorial service was held at Shiloh more about the lynching of Benjamin Thomas pulled another young African American the 16-year-old south, down St. Asaph Baptist Church at West and Duke streets. were heavily fined or sentenced to serve and Alexandria’s history of racial injustice at Al- teenager named Joseph McCoy from the Street, his head bumping over the rough Reverend Warring, of Shiloh Baptist time on the Alexandria chain gang. The exandriava.gov/Historic – Alexandria Commu- same station house and lynched him. Hop- cobblestones. They pelted him with stones, Church, spoke of Thomas as a moral, hon- mayor ordered Thomas to be detained at nity Remembrance Project. ing to prevent a repeat of that crime, sev- the jail on St. Asaph Street. bricks and pieces of iron. They stabbed est boy, who was innocent of the crime The August 1899 view of King and eral groups of Black men organized them- By the evening of Aug. 8, a white mob him, kicked him and shot him. Wounded that led to his lynching. He asked, “Who selves and offered their services to aid the had gathered. Sometime between 11 p.m. and bleeding, Thomas cried out for his can tell how this poor innocent boy felt S. Fairfax streets, then known as police in defending Thomas. and midnight, the mob, which numbered mother. as he crouched in the cellar at the jail and “Leadbeater’s Corner.” Both the police and Alexandria May- somewhere between 500 and 2,000 peo- At the corner of King Street, the mob listened to the howling mob crying for or George L. Simpson rejected their ple, descended upon the jail and demand- turned eastward, then stopped at the in- his life’s blood; when the rope was placed Today, like in 1899, the southwest corner concerns. Many of the Black men who ed that Thomas be handed over to them. tersection of King and Fairfax streets, half about his neck and into his mouth; when of Fairfax and King streets is a busy inter- sought to protect Thomas were arrest- Witnesses remarked that the mob includ- a mile from the Alexandria jail. The mob he was dragged mercilessly through the section opposite Market Square and in the ed. Their efforts, however, were enough ed many prominent white Alexandrians. quickly fashioned a noose and Thom- streets and bullets were being poured into shadow of City Hall. Around midnight on to keep Thomas safe for the night. The Simpson made a plea for calm, while at the as was lynched from a lamppost outside his body by his heartless persecutors, as he Aug. 8, 1899, a 16-year-old Black teenager names of the men arrested, who risked same time promising a swift trial and stat- Leadbeater’s Apothecary. cried in vain for his mother?” named Benjamin Thomas was lynched at their lives to protect Thomas, are: ing that if this did not happen, “I will give Although city authorities were not able, Reverend Warring advocated charging this site by a white terror mob comprised you my word, as a man of honor, that I will or willing, to prevent the murder of Thom- anyone guilty of the lynching with criminal of Alexandria citizens. They attacked the James Alexander personally lead a mob tomorrow night to as, they did react quickly to white citizens’ assault, and he exhorted the congregation city jail on North St. Asaph Street, and Ben- Robert Buckner lynch Thomas.” concerns about a perceived threat of retal- to boycott businesses of anyone who had jamin Thomas was dragged half a mile be- Allen Carter The mob was undeterred. They broke iation from the Black community the next been in the lynch mob: “Men stand behind fore being hanged from a lamppost in the down the front door and surged into the day. Simpson issued orders limiting gath- counters selling you goods whose hands Today’s view of the corner of Thomas Elzie erings in the African American communi- are stained with the blood of Ben Thomas. heart of today’s Old Town. jail. The Alexandria Gazette described that King and S. Fairfax streets, where Edward Gibson “a great shout went up when Thomas was ty. No similar restrictions were placed on Don’t spend another dollar with them.” The day before, Aug. 7, 1899, Alexandria 16-year-old Benjamin Thomas was police arrested Thomas on the charge of Albert Green found and one hundred willing hands Alexandria’s white citizens, who were out Mayor Simpson, however, failed to in- attempted criminal assault on an 8-year- John Haskins dragged him out and up the stairs” onto in abundance in the vicinity of City Hall vestigate any members of the white mob lynched on Aug. 8, 1899. 16 | AUGUST 5, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES

HERITAGE FROM | 13 change again,” Neihardt said. council sends the applica- “Given that we’ve been tion back to the board. here seven times now “I’m also concerned that and we have not seen any the City Council is able to change, I vote to not ac- override the BAR,” Adams cept the deferral,” board said. member John Sprinkle said. Typically, City Council “Madam Chair, I’ve asked sends denied applications these questions, exactly the back to the board under same questions, from con- these circumstances, but cept review number one. that is not required. We have not heard a single “I want it to be that [the response any way in terms board] are part of this dis- of the precedent and the ex- cussion. And I firmly be- act design applications that lieve that if we deny it right have come forward. We’ve now, we have thrown our- basically seen tweaks of the selves out of this discussion initial proposal. … I don’t for the rest of the project, see why we should go for- and I do not agree with that ward.” at all,” Purvi Irwin, a board The Board voted 5-2 to member on BAR, said. defer the request for new Several board members construction, with Sprin- expressed that they had kle and Neihardt voting in little faith in the project’s opposition to the deferral. ability to meet their needs. BAR will now reconsider “I cannot support this the application for new con- application and I cannot struction in September, af- support a deferral. I don’t ter a restudy. PHOTO/ASLAND CAPITAL MANAGEMENT think we’re going to get a [email protected] Rendering of proposed South Alfred Street elevation.

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703 797 3800 | HERMITAGENOVA.ORG 5000 FAIRBANKS AVENUE | ALEXANDRIA, VA 22311 WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM AUGUST 5, 2021 | 17 Times ARTS Livinq LTA’s “Rumors” is pitch perfect, farce

BY JORDAN WRIGHT IF YOU GO What: “Rumors” at the Little I suppose you might say Theatre of Alexandria the conflict at the center of Where: 600 Wolfe St., “Rumors,” the latest produc- Alexandria 22314 tion from the Little Theatre Run dates: Through Aug. 14 of Alexandria, is an exercise For tickets and information: in futility. An accountant, a thelittletheatre.com, pair of lawyers, a politician, 703-683-0496. a therapist and their respec- sustainable? If you put your tive wives are plotting, and money on “no,” then you’d struggling, to keep the se- be spot on. When the play- cret that their best friend, wright is Neil Simon, who and evening’s host, Charlie, has been nominated for more who happens to be the dep- Tony and Oscar Awards than uty mayor of New York City, any other writer, the plot has shot himself on the eve- guarantees hilarity and con- ning of his 10th wedding an- voluted mayhem will ensue. niversary. As more country club To add to the confusion, cronies turn up bearing gifts his wife has taken a powder. and seeking explanations First arrivals, Chris (Steph- for their absent friends, COURTESY PHOTO anie Chu Rudden) and Ken the pace quickens. Claire Peter Halverson as Ernie Cusack, Eileen Copas as Officer Pudney and Janice Rivera as Cookie Cusack Gorman (Mike Rudden), (Jayne L. Victor) and Lenny in "Rumors." make the initial discov- Ganz (Mike Donahue) are ery when they find Charlie, deeply suspicious, as are stentorian voice. The more dall has wrangled this ter- ney, respectively. drugged up and incommuni- the Cusacks (Peter Halver- he piles it on, the funnier it rific cast into a fast-paced “Rumors” is produced by cado. Until they can figure son and Janice Rivera) and gets. Ditto for the marvelous comedic wonder. Timing is Nick Friedlander and Jen- out what has transpired, the the Coopers (Kirk Lambert Jayne Victor as Lenny’s wife, everything, and this troupe nifer Lyman, with sets by duo makes outlandish excus- and Roxanne Waite). When whose deadpan delivery and nails it with tightly woven Charles Dragonette, light- es for Charlie’s dire condition neighbors summon police, knife-sharp retorts are the performances. ing by Ken and Patti Crow- and Myra’s disappearance to the couples must fabricate a perfect balance. If you’re looking for the ley, sound by Alan Wray and the new arrivals. It is at this mutually agreed upon story, The farce is maddening, perfect entrée back to the costumes by Judy Whelihan. point where the bar cart and and pronto. And did I men- of course – but that’s just sacred confines of the the- its intoxicating gifts begin to tion gunshots? it. We know what’s going ater, then look no further Jordan Wright writes about play an increasingly influen- Mike Donahue’s stel- on, but the characters keep than this terrific produc- food, spirits, travel, theatre tial role. lar performance as Lenny piling on topsy-turvy mis- tion. and culture. Visit her website Can this ever-twisting, will put you in mind of Mel communications till we’re Joe Dzikiewicz and Eileen at www.whiskandquill.com absurdly implausible lie of Brooks striding the stage rolling in the aisles. Copas also appear as as Of- or email her at Jordan@ the missing host couple be delivering comic zingers in Director Matthew Ran- ficer Welch and Officer Pud- WhiskandQuill.com. FINANCE PETS College Savings Kitten Season Prepare for the future with a 529 plan. | Page 18 Learn what, or what not, to do if you find a lost kitten. | Page 19 18 | AUGUST 5, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES FINANCE Prepare for the future with a college savings plan A 529 plan is a flexi- capacity or another — stu- prepare them for an out- plan. you're using alternative sav- ble, affordable option dents and parents alike an- standing and abundant fu- As a financial profession- ing methods like tradition- for investing in your ticipate the beginning of a ture. There are many ways al for more than 35 years, I al bank savings accounts, child’s education new school year. With this we can aid in this prepara- make it a habit to regularly there’s no time like the BY SHAWN McLAUGHLIN fresh start comes a time to tion. A perfect place to start remind families to prepare present to start with a 529 celebrate our children's suc- for every student is with a for their child’s future fi- account. Now is the time to After a year and a half cesses, as our professors, College Savings Plan, more nancially; a large part of invest in your child’s future, of virtual learning — in one caregivers and teachers commonly known as a 529 that is arranging for their especially as the new school education. Thousands of year quickly approaches. families every month choose The Commonwealth of to start building their chil- Virginia is home to the larg- dren’s college savings with est 529 plan in the entire 529 plans. This flexible and country. Every year, Vir- affordable option allows you ginia529’s management ap- to prepare for whatever your proach, low fees and strong child’s post-high school edu- investment make it the best cation will look like. option for Virginia families. A 529 plan is very versa- A great benefit of 529 plans, Member FINRA & SIPC tile and can be used at most that other investment strat- two- or four- year colleges, egies sometimes lack, is that vocational schools, graduate they are tax-free. All earn- schools or technical schools ings in these accounts grow in the United States. How- free from state and federal ever, they are not limited taxes, and qualified with- to domestic universities. If drawals are tax-free. Lastly, your child prefers an inter- another bonus to 529 plans national school, this plan is that any Virginia resident can likely be used there too. who owns a Virginia529 ac- If you haven’t yet be- count may deduct contribu- gun saving for your child’s higher education needs, or SEE COLLEGE | 21

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1421 Prince Street, Suite 200 Phone: 703.684.9222 Alexandria, Virginia 22314 www.mclaughlinryder.com FILE PHOTO A 529 plan can be used at most two - or four - year colleges, voca- tional schools, graduate schoolr, or technical schools. WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM AUGUST 5, 2021 | 19 PETS Kitten season by the numbers Fabulous BY GINA HARDTER Francine Pop quiz: You see a kit- She had a rough ten, by itself, outside on a hot start in life and summer day. What do you limps a bit due to a do? gunshot wound. But Answer: It depends. she does not let that When we see an animal get her down and in need, especially a baby can’t wait to meet animal, so many of us want her forever family! to help. After all, they’re so cute with their big eyes Due to COVID-19 we are only doing adoptions by appointment. For more and round cheeks, traits de- information contact King Street Cats: signed to evoke a parental [email protected]. instinct in animals and hu- PHOTO/AWLA Visit us at www.kingstreetcats.org If you see a lone kitten that appears dirty or undernourished, it mans alike. Surely, that an- might be time to call animal services. imal needs our help. KittenPalooza But many times, the the way it should stay, at tell. Just because mama cat Kitten & Cat Adoption Event solution that’s best for that least until kittens are about isn’t visible doesn’t mean Saturday 8/7 & Sunday 8/8 animal is to leave it alone. eight weeks old and able to she’s not around, hunting 12:00 - 3:00 This goes for baby squirrels, fend for themselves without for dinner, checking out the By Appointment with fledgling birds and, as the mom. area or just enjoying some Approved Application temperatures heat up, kit- What about the other well-deserved me-ow time. tens found outdoors. 10% of kittens? There are If the kitten you see appears Tails High Now that the weather is certainly circumstances in healthy and clean, mom is www.tailshigh.org warmer, we are in peak “kit- which a kitten might need a likely still taking care of him ten season,” so called be- human helping hand. When or her. If the kitten appears cause female cats across the do you call in the experts to dirty or undernourished, region are birthing litters assist a kitten in need? then it’s time to call for re- of kittens — indoors, out- inforcements. doors and a lot of places in If a kitten is visibly But no matter what, between. The best and saf- sick or injured please do not handle that est place for those kittens, Mama cat is good, but kitten. We certainly don’t 90% of the time, is with that medicine is sometimes nec- expect everyone to be cat mother cat. essary, and that’s where the experts, gauging kitten age, Mama cat is a busy lady, Animal Welfare League of health and temperament, and she does so much for her Alexandria comes in. Some- and that’s why we’re here to newborn kittens. She feeds times an unwell kitten needs help. Call the Animal Wel- them regularly, every few extra care through veteri- fare League of Alexandria Does Your Dog Need hours, to make sure they get nary and foster programs. at 703-746-4774 extension a Friend in the the nutrition a growing fe- 2 or email info@alexandria- line needs. She keeps them If a kitten is trapped or animals.org with any kitten Middle of the Day? clean, because little kittens in danger concerns. After all, we all 15, 30 & 60 Min. Visits don’t know the first thing Kittens are mischievous, love kittens. Together, we about personal hygiene. She and AWLA’s Animal Services can help them live happy, Dog Walking, Pet Sitting & teaches them how to be so- have found them in storm healthy lives. Overnight Options Available cial but not overwhelming to drains, in walls of construc- other cats, how to go to the tion sites and so many other The writer is the director bathroom and just generally places. Mama cat isn’t going of marketing and how to be a cat. to be able to help those kit- communications for the If that kitten you saw is tens, but animal service ex- Animal Welfare League Ask About looking healthy and happy, perts can. of Alexandria, a 501(c) Our Puppy it’s likely that mom is some- (3) nonprofit organization Packages where, taking better care of If a kitten appears to supporting Alexandria Schedule A Consultation Today! her baby than a human could be abandoned by its and beyond. More 571-438-2323 – even if you don’t see her mother information is available at at that moment. And that’s This one can be harder to AlexandriaAnimals.org. Shop Apparel, Gifts & Pet Supplies at www.PassionatelyPets.com/Shop v 20 | AUGUST 5, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES HOMES How to use and maintain a generator When severe weather and flooding hit, be prepared for a power outage BY BRANDPOINT

Tornados, floods, hur- ricanes and more – severe weather is increasing around the world. Are you ready if a threatening storm hits your home? “Storm frequency and in- tensity is increasing, which means it's important for homeowners to take a pro- active approach to severe weather preparedness," Jon- athan Green, senior regional parts and service manager at Northern Tool + Equip- ment, said. "Having the right equipment and gear on hand and ready to go means your COURTESY PHOTO family can stay as safe and as Remember to test a generator monthly to ensure it is working properly. comfortable as possible." Power to your home may GX390 OHV Engine has a fu- requirement, so look at the Northern Tool + Equipment be intermittent and unre- el-efficient engine with a dig- surge watts required. offers parts, service and re- Keep it clean and level: liable during bad weather. ital ignition for easy startup. Having a generator is half pair expertise to ensure that Always run the gener- In worst cases, entire power The control panel features 10 the battle as it is just as im- generators, water pumps and ator on level surfaces free grids can go out for days or outlets and a 12-volt DC out- portant to use the equipment other equipment is tuned up from debris or other items. weeks at a time. According let, so you can power things safely and maintain it prop- and ready. Non-level or vibrating sur- to Green, it's important to like a well pump, a refriger- erly by following generator faces may result in problems prepare by having flashlights ator and freezer, lights and safety and maintenance tips: Use fresh gas: including poor engine lubri- ready, stocking up on batter- electronics like TVs and cell There is approximately a cation, which can cause over- ies and properly maintaining phones to stay connected to Store units properly: 90-day shelf life on fuel, es- heating. a generator to power necessi- emergency information. When not in use, keep pecially in smaller quantities ties in a home. When selecting a gener- your generator clean and like what would be in the gas Don't overdraw power: If a major storm is ap- ator, it's important to know covered in a safe, accessible tank of a small engine, or a The size of your generator proaching, the American the right size for your needs, location. small gas can. Never use bad will dictate how many things Red Cross recommends un- which is based on the rated gas in a generator or you risk it can power. Keep in mind, plugging small appliances wattage of what you want to Perform maintenance: damage to the engine. items with heating elements to reduce potential damage power, as not all generators Being prepared is key, and or motors often need double from power surges that could have the same power draw. a critical component of that Run units wisely: their rated wattage to start occur. Always follow orders To do this, add up the watt- is making sure your gear is Place generators outdoors up, which is called surge. from authorities, who may age of tools, appliances and ready in advance of serious away from your home but tell you to turn off utilities to motors you will want to run weather. To that end, test shielded from rain as much “Having a generator can prevent damage to your home at the same time, then select the generator monthly to as possible. Never run gener- be life changing during ex- or within the community. a generator with the running ensure it's working properly. ators inside or covered tight- treme weather, and it's im- If you are without elec- wattage rating to match or Just like any other engine, a ly because this can clog spark portant to use this equip- tricity, a portable genera- exceed the total load. Items generator requires mainte- arrestors and filters resulting ment safely and maintain it tor can help power critical with electric motors require nance, so keep up with the in a fire hazard. Additionally, properly so you're ready no household equipment. For additional surge wattage at manufacturer's recommend- not ventilating exhaust in- matter what so your family example, the NorthStar Por- startup that can double or ed schedule for things like creases risk of carbon mon- is ready when severe weather table Generator with Honda triple the normal wattage oil changes and spark plugs. oxide poisoning. comes your way,” Green said. WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM AUGUST 5, 2021 | 21

COLLEGE FROM | 18 And since we live in an age As summer comes to surrounded by technology a close and schools start CALENDAR tions to 529 accounts, up to and social media, the cus- to prepare for the return AUGUST 6 AUGUST 7 $4,000 per account per year, tom IDs are safe to share on of their students, we need from their Virginia state in- all platforms. to make sure our children TOGETHER ART EXHIBIT “To- FRIENDSHIP FIREHOUSE gether” is a special exhibit by FESTIVAL The Friendship Fire- dividual income taxes. Although there have are set up for success. Af- the Del Ray Artisans’ volun- house Festival is back after As if the appeal of a 529 been many technological ad- ter a challenging year and a teers and board members that last year’s hiatus. Celebrate plan were not enough in the vancements with regards to half, many people may not promotes artistic expression Friendship’s 247th year and financial preparation of a Virginia529, there are other be looking into investment in the visual, performing and the history behind the city’s first fire company. Learn about child’s future, growing their ways for family members to plans just yet. However, the applied arts. Members who donated the most volunteer fire safety today and yesterday college savings through so- contribute to a loved one’s best time to start is now, and hours from January 2019 and see the city’s firefighting cial gifting is smart and plan. For example, Invest529 529 plans offer the flexibility through April 2021 were invit- equipment up close. There will easy, as well. Virginia529 gift cards can be found at and return that will work for ed to enter pieces. The gallery be music, displays by commu- nity organizations, craft ven- offers a way to contribute to participating Target stores every family. capacity is limited to 15 peo- dors and food and beverages any Prepaid529 or Invest529 all around Virginia. Also, a ple at any one time to facil- itate social distancing; face available. Children will receive free Friendship fire hats. Entry account using a custom gift custom gift certificate can The writer is president masks must be worn while into the historic Friendship ID number, without any fees. be printed and mailed to a and CEO of McLaughlin visiting the gallery. This event Firehouse Museum will be These custom gift IDs loved one utilizing mail-in Ryder Investments, Inc., runs from Aug. 6 to 28. staggered for COVID-19 safety. Time: Varies can be shared with family payment methods. These an Alexandria-based Time: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: 2704 Mount Vernon and friends to make gift-giv- gifting measures are per- financial services firm, and Location: 100 block of South Ave. ing easier. The online gift- fect for a back-to-school he received a gubernatorial Alfred Street Information: https://delrayar- ing portal makes it easy for pick-me-up that will further appointment to the board Information: https://www. tisans.org/event/together/?in- alexandriava.gov/Friendship- grandparents, godparents a child’s education while of directors of the Virginia stance_id=2320 Firehouse and other family members giving them theDoes freedom yourto College home Savings ’Plans exterior in 2009 need some post-winter TLC? to contribute to a loved one’s choose what to do with it and served as chair of the education safely and easily. Calllater down us the today line. for aboard FREE for nearly estimate. nine years. We are schedulingSEE CALENDAR summer | jobs26 now! HOME OF THE WEEK 703-684-7702

Spacious,Run in April and May 2020 upgraded oasis in Alexandria No expense has been AT A GLANCE spared in building and up- Address: 3003 Franklin St. dating this property. Situ- Price: $1,199,500 ated on .42 acres, this home Square feet: 5,305 features more than 5,000 finished square feet and Bedrooms: 5 over $90,000 in upgrades by Bathrooms: 4.5 the owners, including a PVC Year built: 2018 fence around the flat back- Thinking of painting your home’s exterior beforeContact: winter Bonnie Rivkin arrives? yard, new patio with built-in It will be here before you know it. Call us now for& Courtney a FREE Rivkin estimate! fire pit, grill enclosure and Bonnie: 703-598-7788 hot tub. Plus, there are new Courtney: 703-869-7788 remote-operated window 703-684-7702COURTESY PHOTOS [email protected] Left: The newly updated family home sits on a .42 acre property. treatments, an air ionizer, rivkinresidential.com driveway gate, French drain Right: The kitchen features a marble island, walk-in panty and stainless steel appliances. Runand more.in June, July, August, 2020steel appliances. On the main seating area, stand-alone tub, pose rooms, which could be to National Landing and the The main level features level, the dining room, living large shower with a bench made into a home gym, the- Pentagon. hardwood flooring and 10’ room and foyer feature beau- and a water closet. There are atre room or home office, and Welcome home to the ceilings, a spacious family tiful wainscoting. three additional bedrooms on a walk-out to the backyard. best of D.C.-metro area liv- room with a gas fireplace that On the upper level, the ex- this level and two more full This home is conveniently ing with the advantages of opens to a gourmet kitchen pansive primary bedroom has bathrooms. located less than 10 minutes a large yard and new home, featuring an oversized mar- a tray ceiling, two large walk- The finished basement to Old Town, 20 minutes to while still being a quick Uber ble island, walk-in pantry in closets and a spa-like bath- offers another family room, D.C., 20 minutes to DCA, 1.2 or Metro ride away from all and top-of-the-line stainless room with double vanities, guest suite, two multi-pur- miles to the Metro, and close D.C. has to offer.

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Run in Sept, Oct, Nov, and Dec 2020 22 | AUGUST 5, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES Our View Better together Opinion Any successful relationship requires hard work. It involves trust, communication and collaboration, and the relationships with and with- “Where the press is free and every man is able to read, all is safe.” in government are no different. - Thomas Jefferson City Council’s recent reallocation of nearly $800,000 of School Re- source Officer program funding on May 3 was contentious – to say the least – and brought myriad different viewpoints to the forefront begging Photo of the Week to be heard. Some supported the program, arguing that increased security was necessary to maximize student safety. Others advocated against the program, citing its potential impact on students of color and students with disabilities. However, one point was generally agreed upon: The process by which this decision came about was disjointed and represented a communica- tive split between council and the city’s elected School Board. Regardless of how you feel about the SRO program, council’s decision to override the School Board’s original 6-3 vote to maintain the SRO program without engaging in deeper conversations with the board certainly eroded some trust in its relationships with the board and with the community. Now, in looking at ACPS’ subsequent proposal on how to handle school security in the wake of the SRO presence in schools, we at the Times can’t help but notice that the three potential options, which in- clude the addition of School Security Officers and/or detailed police offi- PHOTO/JINSTAGRAM VIA @ALEXANDRIA.VA cers, eerily resemble the now-defunct SRO program. A piano located at Pat Miller Square in Del Ray as part of the Piano We have to ask: Could the request by ACPS staff, discussed in “ACPS Project. requests private security” on page 1, and any resulting discord, have been either mitigated or sidestepped completely had a few more conver- sations been scheduled and a few more voices been heard? Neighbors helped where the city failed The School Board and City Council have come together harmonious- To the editor: leading into the darkness of night, all ly for several issues in the past, particularly over the last decade. Coun- As we deal with the heat and without power. cil’s unanimous, if hesitant, approval of a new pool for the high school’s humidity of summer, it’s time to talk Let me describe just one affected Minnie Howard campus is a prime example. The more recent approval of about our mayor and his priorities, customer: A wonderful, 97-year-old a swing space during the rebuilding of George Mason Elementary School as well as Dominion Power and their gentleman who lives independently in is another. The SRO removal process was sadly not one of those times. monopolistic stranglehold on us all. his house on one of the affected blocks. Communication is a key ingredient in any just decision-making pro- First, let me state that all When we contacted Dominion to ask cess, particularly when it comes to interactions between the leaders in equipment and infrastructure require why they chose this worst of all possible our city. Even though the outcome might not be completely amenable to maintenance and replacement. Some maintenance windows on one of the each party, if communication is at the core of the process, at least each repairs are done under emergency hottest, most humid and unhealthy party had the opportunity to be heard. circumstances, and some are scheduled air days was chosen, they said it was This is important to keep in mind right now, when the Pew Research as upgrades. That is a given. to accommodate some offices in Center reports that only about one-quarter of Americans trust the fed- This saga all started with a robo-call the neighborhood. I then asked why eral government to generally do what is right. While we acknowledge on July 22, notifying two full blocks of businesses were more important than that local government doesn’t operate in exactly the same way, our city homes and offices about an emergency residents and got no answer. should still do all it can to keep communication channels wide open for need to replace a Dominion electric They said they could not delay both its residents and fellow city leaders. This is especially vital, as the transformer. First, robo-calls are so maintenance due to leaking oil from city starts to grapple with the new Delta variant and as students, teach- prevalent and misused – who even the transformer. If this were true ers and staff return to school in the fall. bothers to answer them? or valid, they could have performed City Council and the School Board have a lot on the horizon that will Leaving leaflets in doors would have the maintenance on the Saturday require strong partnership. Nearly half a million dollars are slated to go been a far more effective way to notify or Sunday between notification and toward school construction in the next decade, a large portion of the in- residents of an impending “scheduled” actual maintenance. coming federal American Rescue Plan Act funding is allocated for school outage in this weather. Thankfully I pointed out that leaving a 97-year- projects and the pandemic doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime a neighbor who did get the robo-call old man home alone in this heat was soon. informed me of the scheduled outage. both immoral and showed contempt Relationships take work. Going forward, we hope that the board and Now to the details: Dominion for the health and safety of customers. council will take the necessary steps toward mending their relationship needed to replace a failing transformer Just imagine your 97-year-old family and, as a result, improving Alexandria as a whole. This will likely require and viewed it as an emergency, citing member traversing a hot and dark lots of time, effort, and yes, lengthy conversations. service and environmental reasons for house and stairway, and rather than Communication leads to trust, trust leads to understanding and un- doing so on July 26. This maintenance holding on to the railing, holding on to derstanding leads to forward motion. Let's move forward together. entailed a five-hour power outage from 5 to 10 p.m., the hottest part of the day SEE COLLINS | 24 WWW.ALEXTIMES.COMWWW.ALEXTIMES.COM MARCHAUGUST 5, 5,2020 2021 | 27| 23

Bad driversStill awaiting are the realethics menace reform TheThe BusinessBusiness Plan Plan To the editor: red lights almost every day, often with Bill Reagan As I was Tocrossing the editor: North Ivanhoe when I amDurant crossing Center a street. on July It would 16, 2019, with Bill Reagan Street on July Nathan22, a driver Macek, ran volunteer the gochair a longright wayalongside toward Paul undoing Smedberg, stop sign ofonto the AlexandriaSeminary PlanningRoad. Comthe -messWMATA on Seminary board chair. Road Alexandria if the mission, is also director of proj- Mayor Justin Wilson, City Man- No reason to panic, every reason to plan The bumper sticker on her van Commonwealth of Virginia would We’re up to this task ect development and finance and ager Mark Jinks, former Mayor While we’re still learning about engaged by Alexandria SBDC, “There read, “Undoa seniorthe Mess: vice presidentSeminary of WSP,remove a Kerry the licenses Donley of and drivers others who also JustCOVID-19, when commonlywe thought called we corona had- foris no pent-up reason toAlexandrians, panic. There is but every also Road.” Therelarge are engineeringhundreds, maybefirm that run has stop spoke signs in and favor red oflights. the project at turnedvirus, the its corner, potential we’re impacts now aredealing dom- spunreason off to plan.”much needed funds for lo- thousands, beenof more working drivers closely like withher. the city the meeting. -Steve Dunham, withinating more uncertainty,the media. When and we perhaps see the cal First,nonprofits. owners And should the hundredsconsider of I see them andrunning the Washington stop signs Metropolitan and Macek’s dual rolesAlexandria – as a senior somethingeffects overseas of a setback. and outbreaks We’re again in the volunteerstheir business’s all feel essential a sense functions, of accom - Area Transit Authority on the Po- vice president at the firm that has beingUnited encouraged States, we tohave wear good masks reason plishmentand evaluate for howthe rolesthose they might played. be tomac Yard Metro Station Alter- been assisting the city and Metro – vaccinatedto become concernedor not – and about take what pre will- impactedThroughout by significant the ordeal employee of the Respectnative and B project. protect Fortfor Ward the past 10 graves years “with ongo- cautionshappen in locally. crowed situations. Some pandemic,absences. Now innovative is the time Alexandrians to cross- To the editor: As director of project developinvolved- ing in financial decisions analysis about Fortconsult - workplacesWe’re thatbeing had told begun that thehybrid best havetrain foundemployees a way on toone make another’s life liv - A recentment ramble and financethrough for Fort WSP, MacekWard Park’sing” and history other and services graves to are secure returnspreventive have decided measures to resumefor now tele are- able.responsibilities. Businesses have discovered new “has conducted cash flow mod- funding for the new station, and all the things you’re supposed to The next step is to evaluate lo- Ward revealed that the City of new to this preservation effort. work for the time being. ways to serve their customers’ needs eling and uncertainty analyses chair of the Alexandria Planning do to avoid the common flu – wash gistics required for employees to Alexandria has removed the Some have tried to discount the We’ve worked so hard to get and, in the process, were rewarded of capital and operating funding Commission – is a clear conflict of hands frequently, cover work remotely, and those temporary forprotection more than theythree dozenhad transconclusion- interest. that there was a coffin throughcoughs two and toughstay home springs, two with moremight loyal require customers. enhanced Many provided forportation the burial projects, site ofapplying an buried in- andWhy found are inconflicts this location, of interest, summersas soon andas you a beginvery to communicationscustomers have such devel as - unknown novativeperson. financingThe removal approaches which to suchmay ashave this obviousbeen a case,part tolerat of - challengingfeel bad. winter.Staying Theaway providingoped closer a phone connections and of the temporaryaddress the budgetarywood and challenges the Old ed Graveyard, in Alexandria? and No Cressey’s financial ad- combinationfrom crowds of isconsci proba- - computer.to and concerns for busi- rope barrierfaced is curiousby public given agencies,” the accordevaluation- vantage, that either the directcoffin or indirect,was entiousbly not mask a bad wearing, idea but is nesses,Owners andneed particular to re- - decades of ingdisrespect to the WSP city website. leaders severelyshould damaged be allowed by cityby people road- serv- sociallikely distancing overkill until and we viewly fortheir their HR employees.policies have shownMacek toward publicly African testified grading in ing equipment. on public trust boards. incrediblyknow more effective about vac con- - forWe’ve possible learned changes to appre to - American favorburial of Alternativeareas in BFort at the VirIt’s- ironic, and-C. Dara,sad, Halthat Hardaway, the cinestagious were payingcases neareroff. encourageciate what employees one another to Ward Park.ginia Department of Environ“Unknown- Grave” protectionJimm Roberts, Unfortunately,our region. a vir- stayis doinghome iffor they’re the common not mental Quality hearing at the Alexandria Businesses most dis- BILL REAGAN feeling well; paying em- As is the common practice, would be removed at a time that ulent variant evolved good. rupted are those dependent on China ployees during extended sick leave and, combined with the We’ve done it indi- once again city officials did not city officials are about to unveil for production, and the ripple effects for themselves or sick/quarantined provide theINPUT public with anyFROM their | 26 ideasverse, morefor affluent,memorializing more likely carelessnesswill increasingly of some affect our daily family members;vidually. or dealingWe’ve learnedwith advance notice of this decision. other gravesto be homeowners in the park. and City less and likely vaccinelives. resisters “What do and you re mean- there’s noBILL having to closenot tofor takea temporary things for The grave wasin questionpublic engagement was one foroutside the to archaeologists, have young children historians than the luctantDiet maskCoke?” wearers, it REAGANperiod. Perhapsgranted. you shouldThat estabincludes- which was identifiedupcoming Arlandriaby the former and Deland Ray thetypical descendants resident. As theof successfulthe has startedObviously, sending if travel the and gather- lish special ourHR provisionsown health, just andfor it City of Alexandriasmall area Archaeologist plan updates. Outreach Fort WardArlandria and and Seminary Del Ray engagement areas unvaccinatedings are risky, to hospitalityICUs in increasing businesses alsoCOVID-19 includes circumstances. how things we’d gotten Pamela Cressey,for this Ph.D. effort has included contend,mul- demonstrates, with first-hand the city has and several numberswill suffer around and the the country. tourism industry usedAlso to canimportant change drasticallyis identifying over - Cressey tipleand hercommunity assistant, meetings, Fran factualopen toolsinformation, that can broaden that ourthere reach. We’rehas begun also planning learning accordingly. from fur - night.credible We’ve sources become of information. much better Bromberg, housesretired andfrom pop-up the Office events arecon -otherThis unidentified level of public graves engagement in ther researchAt the White on the House Delta press variant’s confer- adaptors.You’re already hearing misinforma- of Historic ductedAlexandria, in Spanish and thereand English. the park. isn’t possible with every planning transmissibilityence last week, that the thehead vaccinated of the Cen- tionWe’ve about condeveloped artists taking greater advan -ap- Meetings included childcare, to effort, but demonstrates that we ters for Disease Control said it was a tage of the situation. Our local Health has been considerable turnover in -J. Glenn Eugster, are advised to start masking again preciation for relationships – with facilitate attendance by parents do have a template for doing it well. good time for businesses to dust off Department website is constantly that department.with young Many children, of those and tested Moving forward,Alexandria I hope that in certaintheir pandemic circumstances. preparedness Consider plans,- lovedupdated ones, with with the mostcolleagues current andand as new communications channels civic associations, business groups ing whatbut let’s we nowget real.know, Few it justsmall makes busi- partvalid ofinformation a more interdependent and will also have com - to inform the public, such as text and other community organiza- sensenesses to hit have the emergency “pause” plansbutton on theto munity.links to other key sites. Go to: https:// McKeemessaging amassed and Spanish-language wealth intions Philadelphia will broaden their own reach hopefullyshelf. Yes,break we the should infection all have cycle. them www.alexandriava.gov/HealthBusinesses and business groupsand news articles. to be as inclusive of the communi- Ofbut course those are it’s often disappointing among the smart to aresearch working “coronavirus.” collaboratively. Like- not AlexandriaThe city conducted a survey ties they represent as possible and changepractices our we’retrajectory. perpetually Lesser hoping folk to wise,Alexandria business SBDCcommunities staff has and ad -lo- To the editor:of residents in both languages,in a livery continue stable.” to weigh in on issues of mightget feel to next diminished, year. but you know calvised governments businesses arethrough learning similar how to Char McCargorevealing Bah,that thein prioritiesher ofWhat concern. Bah fails City staffto mention should continue is what, we’veThere are,become however, so much some betreal-- bettercircumstances communicate in the pastand andappreciate will July 8 columnSpanish-speaking “The Othersurvey thatre- McKeeto engage neither these groups,returned while to also ter thanly worthwhile that! The things 18 months that business – and oneprovide another’s updates needs and suggestions and pressures. as Alexandria:spondents Colonel Johndiffer McKee, in many nor re - reestablishedseeking feedback residence from groups in and countingowners – can of startCOVID-19 thinking have about given now Regionalismconditions develop. is flourishing. To review our tip spects from those of the English individuals heard less often. that might help out if circumstances sheet on how businesses can manage from indenture to millionaire,” Alexandria during his lifetime. us new perspectives, taught us some We’re understandably anxious speakers. The Del Ray Citizens We must actively work to solic- worsen locally – and, incidentally, the coronavirus, see our website at claims thatAssociation “John McKee also was conducted one The a millionsit comments he amassed representative was as ofa our lessonsthese that are are smart sticking preparations with us, to and un- toalexandriasbdc.org. get back to whatever “normal” of Alexandria’ssurvey mostof its successfulmembers andPhiladelphia re- diverse resident. community, and respect- they’redertake making at any us muchtime, sturdierso you’re and not willThough be, but much the unfortunateis still unknown, reality African Americans”ported the detailedand “was comments The fullyBaltimore consider Afro the Americanviewpoints of morewasting resilient. effort. isit thatmakes we sensemust continuefor you tofor begin a while known as offeredthe wealthiest by each Africansurvey responLedger,- all dated to make April certain 12, we’re 1902, making CodyThe Mello-Klein’s listing below featureis pulled arti from- longerthinking with and uncertainty.planning now. Given our American indent, not augmentingonly the city the but outreach states, “Johnthe best McKee, decisions Philadelphia’s for our commu - cle ina varietylast week’s of experts Alexandria and reputable Times, pandemic experiences, we’re capable the country.”conducted by city staff. Richestnity Negro as a dead. whole. - Founder and “Lifesites. finds To aecho way,” the highlighted comment of onelife’s of of that.The writer is executive director Bah’s sweepingToo often, assertion the voices is heard Owner at of McKee City,-Nathan New Macek, Jersey, chair abilitythose to experts,adapt, Patriciato survive Frame, and a huto- Weof are the all Alexandria in this togetherSmall Business and we simply untrue.city hall True, are older,McKee less was racially and di - ThousandsAlexandria of Planning Real CommissionAcres thrive.man He resources illustrated consultant the point frequently with are working ourDevelopment way out of Center. this to- born a free indentured servant in of Real Estate Elsewhere - Was the phenomenal success of the Alex- gether. Alexandria in 1819; however, as Possibly the Wealthiest Negro in andria Drive-in, and how that inno- Bah notes elsewhere, “(i)n 1840, at the Country.” vative idea to fight isolation galva- The writer is executive director of the age of 21, McKee … migrated to -Craig Taylor, nized a community into action. It not the Alexandria Small Business Devel- Philadelphia where he found work Alexandria only established a memorable venue opment Center. 24 | AUGUST 5, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES OUT OF THE ATTIC

Denise Dunbar Benjamin Thomas and Emmett Till Publisher & Executive Editor This “Out of the Attic” article “Lynching in America: Con- for his items, and walked out. [email protected] originally ran in the Aug. 6, 2020 fronting the Legacy of Racial Bryant, co-owner of the store,

Cody Mello-Klein issue of the Alexandria Times. Terror:” https://lynchingina- came out behind him. That is Editor In August of 1619, the En- merica. eji.org/report/. when Till allegedly whistled [email protected] glish pirate ship, White Lion, Benjamin Thomas and Em- at her. Years later, Bryant ad- landed at Point Comfort, in mett Till are two examples of mitted she made it up. She was Olivia Anderson present-day Hampton, Virgin- the many lynchings that stand never charged in Till’s murder Reporter [email protected] ia, heavy with Africans kid- out. case. napped from their homeland. On Aug. 8, 1899, a 16-year- In the dark early morning Katherine Hapgood They were transported to Vir- old African American teen- hours of Aug. 28, Carolyn Bry- Intern ginia and some “20 and odd” ager, Benjamin Thomas, was ant’s husband, Roy Bryant, and [email protected] Africans were traded to English lynched for allegedly attempt- his half-brother J.W. Milam, settlers in exchange for food. ing to assault Lillian Kloch, an kidnapped Till from his uncle’s Margaret Stevens For generations, whites 8-year-old white girl. Benjamin home. Sales Director used violence to control Afri- was hanged from a lamppost at Till’s partially submerged, [email protected] cans, historically referred to the intersection of King and mutilated body was found in PHOTO/PERCY WHITE Patrice V. Culligan as slaves, the derogatory “nig- Fairfax streets. He was buried the Tallahatchie River on Aug. Publisher Emerita gers,” negros, coloreds and in a pauper’s graveyard. 28. ism and perceived white su- [email protected] blacks. Accepted forms of con- On Aug. 28, 1955, Em- On Sept. 22, 1955, Jet Mag- premacy. Their deaths would trol included beatings, maim- mett Till, a 14-year-old Afri- azine published an article with not have been possible without ings and lynchings, all deeply can American teenager, was pictures of Till’s disfigured the collaboration, official or ADVERTISING rooted in the culture and laws lynched for allegedly whistling body. unofficial, between residents, Margaret Stevens of Virginia and the United at Carolyn Bryant, age 21. Till Bryant and Milam were business owners and local gov- [email protected] States. lived in Chicago and on Aug. charged with murder and ernments. Marty DeVine Thousands of lynchings oc- 21, visited his uncle Moses found not guilty. They admit- Benjamin Thomas and Em- [email protected] curred in the U.S. over gener- Wright and cousins in Money, ted to killing Till in a Jan. 24, mett Till call out to us to re- ations. Many of them involved Mississippi. 1956 Look Magazine article. Patrice V. Culligan member them and to fight for [email protected] accusations that a Black man On Aug. 24, Till rode into The likelihood of these two a more just and equal society. assaulted a white woman. The town with his older cousins to Black teenagers being lynched Equal Justice Initiative dis- get candy and soda from Bry- increased exponentially by Out of the Attic is provided by Tina Franco cusses lynching in its report, ant’s Store. He walked in, paid them living in a culture of rac- the Office of Historic Alexandria. Office Administrator [email protected] COLLINS FROM | 22 Wilson replied that the 5 mayor are available upon The good news is that GRAPHIC DESIGNER to 10 p.m. maintenance request, but I encourage despite our city government’s Chelsea West a flashlight? window was cooler than an all Alexandria residents to lack of help in this and many [email protected] After hours trying to early morning maintenance think about the following: instances, our residents are work within the system with window. When I replied Dominion is unaccountable indeed wonderful. Neighbors CONTRIBUTORS Dominion’s corporate and with the absurdity of this and in this instance seemed helped neighbors, and we Alexa Epitropoulos local offices, I gave up and statement, I heard nothing to be uncaring about the were able to find a place to be Kim Gilliam contacted Wilson. I sent further and the maintenance health and well-being of its safe, cool and healthy during Allison Hageman him an email with all of the proceeded as originally residential customers. Wilson this unfortunate incident. Dawn Hoiem pertinent information and planned. likewise has a track record of Not everyone is so lucky. Louise Krafft contact information and My communications with supporting businesses over -Scott Collins, Sarah Liu work order for Dominion. both Dominion and the our residents. Alexandria Dr. Vivek Sinha Jordan Wright Weekly Poll ALEXTIMES LLC Take the poll at alextimes.com Denise Dunbar Last Week This Week Managing Partner Have you or a family member ever been to the Do you think Lee Street should be renamed? The Ariail family Winkler Botanical Preserve? A) Yes. Suzanne Brock 31% What's the Winkler Botanical Preserve? B) No. William Dunbar 30% No. C) Only the opinions of Lee Street residents should matter. HOW TO REACH US 20% Yes I have been there. D) I'm not sure. 110 S. Pitt St. 12% My children and I have both been there. Alexandria, VA 22314 703-739-0001 (main) 7% Yes, my children attended camp or went there on school 703-739-0120 (fax) field trips. www.alextimes.com WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM AUGUST 5, 2021 | 25

Weekly Words DEATH NOTICES Douglas Baker (82), of Alexandria, July 19, 2021

Michael Bodson (80), of Alexandria, July 25, 2021

James Brincefield (80), of Alexandria, July 23, 2021

John Geraghty (78), of Alexandria, July 29, 2021

James E. Parker (53), formerly of Alexandria, July 19,

2021

Peggy Proffit (86), of Alexandria, July 24, 2021 Solutions from last week last Solutions from

SUGGESTED TRACK by Drew Schmenner, edited by David Steinberg ACROSS 61 Isolated to block all commu- 112 Microbe 18 Many-headed serpent 71 Response to the Little Red Hen 1 Quick snooze nication 116 Rarely attainable standard 24 "Othello" villain 72 Graduating group (Abbr.) 7 Forbid 62 Disorder 117 Haunting melody? 25 Angsty music genre 73 Letter after sigma 10 Bread with a pocket 64 Chunk of drifting ice 121 Where one steps into the 30 ___ the Man (baseball legend's 77 Major defeats 14 Month when St. Patrick is 66 Peace activist Yoko spotlight rhyming nickname) 78 Sword wielded at the Olympics honored 67 Movie theaters, to a Brit 122 Challenge in a sleepover 31 Soft serve holder 80 "Beauty and the Beast" heroine 19 "Positions" singer Grande 68 Closing number? game 32 Politically aligned groups 81 Tale 20 Santa ___ winds 72 Hollywood up-and-comer 123 Candy with colorful dispens- 33 Tropical vacation spots 86 Cellular messenger 21 Not as planned 74 Title for a baronet ers 34 Name that anagrams to "Ina" 87 Three-piece suit component 22 Home to Prada and Gucci 75 Made a rip in 124 Oscars and Nobels 35 Flat-bottomed freight carrier 88 Flightless bird Down Under 23 Streaming music? 76 Aching 125 Carries 36 Buckeyes' university 90 "Pick me, pick me!" 26 Dealt (with) 79 Like many a film with lots of 126 Poetic tributes 37 Actress Tyler 91 Verb stamped on candy hearts 27 Ink on the body profanity 127 Astound 39 Friend, in Paris 94 "There was no alternative" 80 Prerelease software versions 42 Man made from dust 95 Warm up again 28 Copenhagen native 128 Most recent 82 Attention for a sick child, 43 More brusque 96 Make really mad 29 "All the President's ___" briefly DOWN 45 Major Greek export? 98 Promise 30 Smoothing power tool 83 Janitor's implement 1 Broadway ensemble 47 ___ acid (protein part) 100 Go "Achoo!" 31 Zoo enclosure 84 Blue ___ shoes 2 Diva's delivery 49 Leave in a hurry 101 Be on the mend 32 Country single? 85 Power chords? 3 Hue 50 Beast such as Mufasa 103 Body part you can flick 35 Necktie with a cord and 89 Sushi order 4 Pesters incessantly 51 Madre's boy 104 Broad valleys clasp 92 Over there, poetically 5 Name that anagrams to "Ina" 52 Heavyset 105 Quotes as evidence 38 Type of exam 93 Often-misplaced TV accesso- 6 Bamboo-eating bear 54 Boatloads 106 TV brand 40 Home to most of the world's ry 7 Eye-catching online ad 55 Cutesy chewing sounds 108 Edgar ___ Poe population 94 Wrath 8 Poker payment 56 Actress Arthur 111 Gush, as lava 41 Bambi's mother, for one 97 ___-Hoop 9 "I'll pass" 57 Best Buy stopped selling them 112 Nibble like a gopher 42 Partner of "oohing" 99 Reaction to poison ivy 10 Knife for peeling in 2018 113 Bronte's "Jane ___" 44 Alteration, informally 102 Elementary addition prob- 11 Eager child's cry 61 Motorcycle attachment 114 They hold up curtains 46 Singer Del Rey lems 12 Prefix with "pod" 63 Cut into tiny pieces 115 Need to 48 Auto tune? 103 Bird song? 13 Author Rand 65 Painter's stand 117 Short phrase with lasting 53 Rachel Maddow's network 107 All tidied up 14 Book after Jonah 67 PC shortcut often used before meaning 58 In the past 109 Like an enthusiastic fan 15 Made up (for) pasting text 118 Home, slangily 59 News service org. 110 (Not my error) 16 Pair that may have good flow 69 One to respect 119 Place for a peel 60 "NYPD Blue" actor Jimmy 111 Close, as an envelope 17 John of "Monty Python" films 70 Miller ___ 120 Need to settle up 26 | AUGUST 5, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES CALENDAR CALENDAR FROM | 21 Time: Performances at 4 and presents a new dance by Rox- AUGUST 14 7 p.m. AUGUST 21 ann Morgan Rowley featuring Location: 711 Princess St. dancers over the age of 40 ALEXANDRIA SUMMER Information: https://www. BREWS AND BANDS BAR and examines ideas of resil- AUGUST 8 SIDEWALK SALE Alexandria’s classicalmovements.com/ CRAWL Come to Del Ray for ience. The final performance summertime deal-snagging secretgardenconcerts/ the first annual Brews and is called “Tales of Moria,” in- SUMMER COOKIE DECORAT- tradition features deep dis- Bands Bar Crawl, a celebration cludes choreography by Philip ING WORKSHOP From baking counts from dozens of inde- of community and life. This Baraoidan and explores the beginners to seasoned pros, pendent boutiques throughout event, featuring over 15 of the concept of fate meddling in this cookie decorating work- Old Town and Del Ray, plus AUGUST 20 area’s top restaurants with relationships. A livestream link shop provides something for free parking at four City of live music and bands all along ALEXANDRIA RESTAURANT will be available for those un- everyone. Rachel Lilly of Sugar Alexandria parking garages in the avenues, takes place all able to attend in person. Cookie Sisters will walk par- Old Town. Stroll the D.C. re- WEEK Enjoy Alexandria throughout Del Ray. Swag bags Restaurant Week and show Time: 7:30 p.m. ticipants through every step gion’s Shop Small destination and collectors cups will be giv- Location: 201 Prince St. of creating the perfect sugar for deals on fashion, jewelry, your support for the city’s en to the first 300 registrants. large community of locally Information: https://jane- cookie, imparting skills like home décor, gifts and more Time: 1 to 6 p.m. franklin.com/kick-off outline and flooding, wet-on- outside of participating bou- owned restaurants. For 10 Location: Del Ray wet designs and fine lines. days and two weekends, tiques. This event runs from Information: https://www.vis- PERSONALIZED PARACORD Each participant will decorate dozens of restaurants will Aug. 14 to 15. itdelray.com/events BRACELETS Learn how to use five cookies, take home Ra- offer a $49 in-person and/ Time: Varies paracord to create intricate, chel’s recipes for roll-out sug- or to-go dinner for two. Select Location: Varies personalized bracelets. Guests ar cookies and royal icing and restaurants will offer a $25 Informaton: https://www.vis- will meet in a professional receive a complimentary drink. in-person and/or to-go dinner AUGUST 27 italexandriava.com/things-to- jewelry studio and decorate In accordance with CDC guide- for one in addition to the $49 do/shopping/sidewalksale/ ATHENAEUM SEASON KICK- metal, copper or brass with lines, guests over 12+ who are deal for two. This expanded of- fering was created during Alex- OFF Celebrate the beginning whatever words or symbols fully vaccinated may attend OUTDOOR MUSICAL DINNER: andria Restaurant Week To-Go of the Athenaeum season they choose. Open to ages 8+. without a mask. TWO TO TANGO Honor the cen- in January 2021 in response with a performance from Jane Wine and beer will be provided Time: 2 p.m. tennial year of Astor Piazzolla to increased interest from Franklin Dance at the North- for adults. Shared tools and Location: 847 S. Pickett St. with a multi-course dinner of single diners during COVID-19. ern Virginia Fine Arts Associa- equipment are sanitized be- Information: https://www.visi- Argentinian steak and Malbec This event takes place from tion. The event features three tween uses; workstations are talexandriava.com/event/sum- wine – and the singular sound Aug. 20 to 29. unique dance performances separated by plexiglass. mer-cookie-decorating-work- of the bandoneon in a pro- Time: Varies followed by a question and Time: 6 to 8 p.m. shop/18109/ gram featuring the entrancing Location: Varies answer session. The first is Location: 1112 King St. music of the composer who Information: https://www. “Family Photos” with music by Information: https://www. brought tango to international visitalexandriava.com/restau- Steve Rogers, where dances visitalexandriava.com/event/ attention, along with other cel- rants/restaurant-week/ are paired with projections, personalized-paracord-brace- ebrated tango composers and images from the performer's lets/18168/ original music by Emmanuel childhood or from a past gen- Wear a mask. Trifilio. eration. The second, “Forty+”,

Give it a Shot!

Protect Yourself & Your Community. The Alexandria Times encourages all residents to get the COVID-19 vaccine when available. #VaxALX WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM AUGUST 5, 2021 | 27 Classifieds contact Planning & Zoning staff Discounts. Call 1-877-614-6667 BUSINESS FOR SALE at 703.746.4666 or email the plan- Sign business located in scenic ner listed no later than August Dont let the stairs limit your mo- Luray, VA. In business for over 19, 2021. bility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the 29 years with room to grow! In- AUCTIONS cludes clientele and lots of equip- stairs, is concerned about a fall ment. $300k to $500K depending On Site Auction w/ Real Estate. or wants to regain access to their on options. Owner will consider Saturday, August 14, 2021, 9 a.m., entire home. Call AmeriGlide partial financing and will consult 2148 Mt. Pleasant Church Road, today! 1-888-510-0805 up to three years. 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No court ap- TIVE REVIEW pearance. Estimated completion Your Home. Vinyl Replacement Windows time twenty-one days. Hilton The following requests have Starting at $235* Installed w/Free Oliver, Attorney (Facebook). 757- been received for administrative Trim Wrap Call 804-739-8207 for 490-0126. Se Habla Espanol. BBB REQUEST A FREE QUOTE! review and approval. MORE details! Ronnie Jenkins Member. https://hiltonoliverat- ACT NOW TO RECEIVE II Siding, Roofing, Gutters and torneyva.com. A $300 SPECIAL OFFER!* For information on the follow- More! (833) 688-1378 ing applications or to comment, Up to $15,000.00 of GUARAN- *O er value when purchased at retail. visit the City’s website at www. GENERAC Standby Generators TEED Life Insurance! No med- Solar panels sold separately. alexandriava.gov/planning or call provide backup power during ical exam or health questions. 703.746.4666. utility power outages, so your Cash to help pay funeral and home and family stay safe and other final expenses. 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COMMONWEALTH PLANNER: Abigail Harwell– installation services available. $0 Call 888-608-4974 Abigail.Harwell@alexandriava. Down Financing Option. Request OF VIRGINIA gov a FREE, no obligation, quote REDISTRICTING COMMISSION today. Call 1-833-688-1378 WANTED TO BUY OR In accordance with section TRADE PUBLIC HEARINGS 11-500 of the zoning ordinance, Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! Hearings to solicit public comments on the FREON WANTED: We pay $$$ the above listed request may be LeafFilter, the most advanced drawing of state and congressional legislative districts for cylinders and cans. R12 R500 approved administratively by the debris-blocking gutter protec- in Virginia. R11 R113 R114. Convenient. Director of Planning & Zoning. If tion. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter Certified Professionals. Call A total of eight public hearings will be held in you have any comments regard- estimate today. 15% off Entire 312-291-9169 or visit Refrigerant- July and August. Hearings are scheduled regionally ing the proposal above, please Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Finders.com both in person and virtually. Hearings will be livestreamed and archived online To place a classified ad, call For more information on dates and registration: https://www.virginiaredistricting.org Margaret Stevens at 703-739-0001 Follow Us @CommissionVa 28 | AUGUST 5, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES

Donna Cramer, Realtor® We're in this together, and I will guide you home. Licensed in Virginia | 703.627.9578 | [email protected] | dcramer.com

PENDING | Alexandria PENDING | Alexandria 5819 Wyomissing Court | 22303 3601 Tupelo Place | 22304 3 bedrooms | 2.55 baths | $559,000 4 bedrooms | 3.5 baths | $1,995,000

Beautifully renovated, three level townhouse on Beautiful sequestered oasis on almost three- a cul-de-sac setting, a half mile from Huntington quarters of an acre. Fire pit with built-in seating, Metro. New kitchen and wood floors. inviting pool and large pool house.

SOLD | Canal Way SOLD | North Springfield 1138 N Pitt Street | 22314 7107 Woodland Drive | 22151 3 bedrooms | 3.5 baths | $999,000 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | $1,052,000

FOR RENT | Yates Gardens RENTED | Old Town 903 S Saint Asaph Street | 22314 621 Wythe Street | 22314 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | $3,350/mo. 1 bedroom | 1 bath | $1,895/mo.

I genuinely appreciate your referrals; please call me if you are moving out of the area. McEnearney Associates, Inc. has an extensive network of agents in other locations. We can help you find a REALTOR® in your next town or your next country!

109 S. PITT STREET, ALEXANDRIA, VA 22314 | 703.549.9292 | EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY