Alexandria Gazette Packet 25 Cents

Serving Alexandria for over 200 years • A Connection Newspaper August 12, 2021 City dedicates marker in memory of ‘Face Yourselves’ lynching victim Benjamin Thomas. By Jeanne Theismann Gazette Packet

s twilight descended across the city, the powerful strains of “We Shall Overcome” rang out at the Aintersection of Fairfax and King streets as a crowd gathered Aug. 8 to re- member Benjamin Thomas, a 16-year-old who was lynched at that site 122 years ago. It happened around midnight, Aug. 8, 1899, when a mob of 2,000 white Alexandri- ans attacked the city jail on North St. Asaph Street. With a rope around his neck, Thomas was dragged to the intersection known as Leadbeater Corner opposite Market Square. Acting Chief of Police Don Hayes speaks at the Aug. 8 Along the way, he was pelted with stones remembrance ceremony for Benjamin Thomas, a 16-year- and pieces of iron, stabbed and shot several old who was lynched at the corner of Fairfax and King A crowd gathers at the corner of Fairfax and King streets Aug. 8 to times before being hanged from a lamppost. streets on Aug. 8, 1899. dedicate a marker commemorating the Aug. 8, 1899, lynching of “We can never bring justice for Benjamin 16-year-old Benjamin Thomas. Thomas but with perseverance we can begin Photos/City of Alexandria to tell the truth, which will move to reconcil- iation,” said Rabbi David Spinrad of Beth El Hebrew Congregation just prior to unveiling the historic marker at the site of the lynch- ing. Two years earlier, on April 23, 1897, an- other African American teenager, Joseph McCoy, was lynched at the corner of Cam- eron and Lee streets after being pulled from his cell at the police station. A historic mark- er was dedicated at that site earlier this year. Both markers are part of the Alexandria Community Remembrance Project, which A crowd fills Market Square Aug. 8 for the twilight ceremony commemorating the is working with the Equal Justice Initiative lynching of 16-year-old Benjamin Thomas, which took place Aug. 8, 1899. A marker based in Montgomery, Ala. The Equal Justice was dedicated at the corner of Fairfax and King streets where the lynching took place. Initiative published “Lynching in America: Confronting the Legacy of Racial Terror” in 2015 and opened The National Memorial for Peace and Justice in 2019. The memorial includes over 800 steel monuments, or pillars, one for each coun- ty in the United States where a racial terror lynching took place, with the names of the lynching victims engraved on the pillars. Communities across the country will be able to claim their pillars and install them in the Worshipful Grand Historian McArthur counties they represent and the ACRP is Myers, 31st Masonic District MHPHGLVA, working towards that end. leads the wreath laying procession from Joining Spinrad in the remembrance cer- Market Square to the corner of Fairfax emony for Thomas were Alexandria Mayor and King streets on Aug. 8, 2021 as part Justin Wilson, Acting Chief of Police Don of the remembrance ceremony and mark- Hayes, Sheriff’s Office Captain Sean Casey, er dedication in memory of Benjamin Alexandria Poet Laureate KaNikki Jakarta, Thomas. Thomas was 16 years old when Alexandria City Hall is illuminated in purple, the color of mourning, in honor of Shiloh Baptist Church Rev. Taft Quincey he was lynched at that intersection on Benjamin Thomas, a 16-year-old who was lynched at the corner of Fairfax and King Heatley, Beulah Baptist Church Rev. Profes- Aug. 8, 1899. streets on Aug. 8, 1899. Carlyle House and the George Washington Masonic Memorial sor Quadricos B. Driskell, and vocalist Tanya were also illuminated in purple from Aug. 6-9 in memory of Thomas. Wilkins. Worshipful Grand Historian McAr- that in both Alexandria lynchings, the white thur Myers, 31st Masonic District Most Wor- authorities were deliberately complicit in of the Black community who were willing to erything can be changed that is faced, but shipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Virginia, their refusal to name and bring to justice stand up to white violence. nothing can be changed unless it is faced.” led the wreath laying procession from Mar- members of the white mob. In the case of In closing the remembrance ceremony, Driskell concluded simply, “Face your- ket Square across the street to the site where Thomas, the officers defending the jail Rev. Driskell quoted novelist and activ- selves.” Thomas was murdered. were not prepared to protect the prisoner. ist James Baldwin: “You cannot lynch me To learn more about Benjamin Thomas and Research by the Alexandria Community Instead, city officials and law enforcement and keep me in ghettos without becoming the events of Aug. 8, 1899, visit the In Memo- Remembrance Project committee showed officers obstructed and punished members something monstrous yourselves…. Not ev- riam page at Alexandriava.gov/Historic. REAL ESTATE

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2 v Alexandria Gazette Packet v August 12-18, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Big Money for Big Biz, Not as Much for Poor

Lawmakers go on a sion. Meanwhile, groups advocating for low-income Virginians had a harder time. spending spree with Many advocates were hoping to persuade the governor and lawmakers on the mer- billions of dollars its of affordable housing, a need that is expected to become more pronounced from Uncle Sam. when a federal eviction moratorium ex- pires. They were not successful, despite a detailed plan to construct 7,000 new By Michael Lee Pope units of affordable housing circulated by GAZETTE PACKET the Virginia Housing Alliance. “We would have preferred that there ig business cleaned up this week, would be more money for unemploy- taking home the biggest prizes ment and other things such as affordable in the special session to spend housing and some other things under B$3 billion in stimulus cash. Next family and child welfare we would have year, their taxes will be lower because of preferred,” said Jay Speer, executive di- an $862 million investment into the un- rector of the Virginia Poverty Law Cen- employment insurance trust fund. And ter. “But we’re certainly hopeful that in telecommunications giants will bankroll the next budget cycle next year we’ll see windfall profits from the $700 million some of these things.” available to expand broadband internet. Meanwhile, low-income Virginians YET ANOTHER PROPOSAL for stimulus didn’t fare quite as well. spending that was rejected by the Dem- Gov. Ralph Northam and Democratic ocratic leadership was a proposal to use majorities in the House and Senate re- local neighborhood schools as a commu- jected a proposal from the Virginia Hous- Photo by Michael Lee Pope/Gazette Packet nity hub for offering social services. The ing Alliance to build 7,000 new units of Democrats who wield the gavel in the House and Senate crafted a plan to spend $3 billion idea was that the school wouldn’t just affordable housing. And they rejected a of stimulus cash. They also appointed an entirely new slate of judges to the appeals court, offer educational services, it would also proposal from the Fund Our Schools coa- expanding its jurisdiction and shifting its politics. be a community hub where people could lition that would have used local schools get other services that wrapped around as community hubs to distribute wrap- public education — things like food securi- around services such as housing assistance day afternoon, a few hours before parading very important problem that I want to bring ty, housing, internet access or health needs. or food security. Some argued that spending them through two committee hearings and attention to.” The Fund Our Schools coalition presented this pot of money on broadband is a mistake, giving them a final vote. The new judges in- research showing these kinds of schools especially considering the money Congress clude four women and four African Ameri- THE SPECIAL SESSION offered an oppor- allow students to focus on learning rather is about to unleash. cans, a counterbalance to the current bench tunity for lawmakers to spread billions of than economic insecurity. “This is not an equity budget,” said Kim that’s disproportionately white and male. dollars in federal stimulus money, creating “Most advocates in the coalition are dis- Bobo, executive director of the Virginia Pov- “We elected an unprecedented level of an opportunity to help people in need and appointed that we didn’t see any funding erty Law Center. “The big-ticket items really diversity to the bench,” said House Majori- also fund specific projects in House districts during the special session for community are large-scale infrastructure and long-term ty Leader Charniele Herring of Alexandria. where Democratic incumbents are in diffi- schools,” said Chad Stewart, manager of ed- projects that really will do little in the short “Today we took a historic step forward in cult elections. The $1 million appropriation ucation policy at the Commonwealth Insti- term to help low-income families.” making our legal system more equitable and for an African-American cultural center in tute for Fiscal Analysis. “We really see it as Democratic leaders in the House and expanding people’s rights as the Virginia Virginia Beach will likely be a talking point a pressing issue that we’re going to need to Senate cut a deal late Friday afternoon in Court of Appeals comes in step with state for several House Democrats in Hampton continue working with lawmakers on over a closed-door meeting that was not open to appellate courts across the country.” Roads who are in swing districts, and oth- the coming months and into the next legis- the public or the press, making some slight lative session.” changes around the edges of the governor’s The community schools model has been proposal. Sheriff’s deputies will get bonuses, “This is not an equity budget.” implemented in states as large as California as will correctional officers and home health — Kim Bobo, and as small as Vermont. New York City used care workers. But for the most part, the $3 its federal stimulus money to expand com- billion spending plan was essentially the executive director of the Virginia Poverty Law Center munity school models by nearly 150 school document Northam handed them last month sites. The problem for Virginia is that it — plus a $1 billion pot of money for him to One of the new appeals court judges is er pork barrel spending is aimed at Henrico doesn’t have an existing state office to imple- spend next year. Fairfax County Circuit Court Judge Daniel County and Fredericksburg. Across Virginia, ment it, which is why the coalition is asking “While other states are closing budget Ortiz, who is the only one to draw oppo- businesses will benefit from a $250 million for dedicated funding to establish communi- gaps, we are investing in Virginians,” said sition during the judicial interviews. Two appropriation for the Rebuild VA Economic ty schools in school divisions with the most Northam in a written statement after House Democrats refrained from voting for Ortiz Recovery Fund. poverty. That’s why advocates are pressing Democrats and Senate Democrats cut a deal. after concerns were raised over his role in “We are making monumental investments for the Virginia Department of Education to “We have consistently put resources into the guardianship system, which was compli- in businesses through the Rebuild Virginia form an office to work with school divisions helping families, businesses, and communi- cated by his former job as a lawyer for Inova. program,” said Senate Majority Leader Dick on implementation. ties recover from this pandemic and prepare In 2019, the Richmond Times-Dispatch pub- Saslaw. “Our response since March 2020 has “These services can create access for the for the future.” lished a three-part series called “Unguarded” helped Virginia maintain our best state for community to get health services, nutri- that revealed how the guardianship process business rating from CNBC and made sure tion, housing support, tutoring, expanded THE APPEALS COURT was also on the leaves vulnerable people unprotected. we continue that growth as we begin to learning time — all of which are shown to agenda for the special session, allowing “I’m not necessarily saying Ortiz should be come out on the other side of the economic improve student outcomes,” said James Fed- Democrats to install eight new judges to a blamed for all this,” said Del. Mark Levine crisis.” derman, president of the Virginia Education 17-member court, expanding its jurisdiction (D-45), who was one of the two to take a The approach taken by the Democratic Association. “Not to have to deal with the and shifting its politics. Democratic leaders walk on Ortiz. “I felt that if we did not do leadership aligns with much of the agen- toxic stress created by food insecurity, inad- finally got around to announcing the names what we did that no one would bring at- da outlined by the Virginia Chamber of equate housing, lack of internet access or of the judges they wanted to appoint Mon- tention to this problem, and I do think it’s a Commerce in advance of the special ses- unmet health needs.” www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet v August 12-18, 2021 v 3 News Senior Services of Alexandria’s Volunteers Are the Best Senior Services of Alexandria (SSA) would like to thank its volunteers for making a difference in an older adult’s life every day. From Meals on Wheels to Gro- ceries-to-Go, AniMeals, Friendly Visitors, and Senior Ambassadors, they are helping to make sure that Alexandria’s seniors are receiving proper nutrition, companionship, and information to keep them healthy, safe and engaged in the community. SSA couldn’t accomplish its mission of allowing older adults to age with dignity without its volunteers, and we are grateful to them. If you are looking for a volunteer opportunity, visit SSA’s website at www.seniorservicesal- Felicia Brewster a local ex.org or call 703-836-4414 ext. 110. Samantha Whiteside is a Realtor shops for an older Groceries to Go Volunteer who adult receiving Groceries Thanks to Cicely Woodrow and La’Shawn Knox with the Sheriff’s works at the Motley Fool. to Go. Office for delivering Meals on Wheels on July 4th where seniors received a patriotic “goody” bag. Pictured here with Marshall Hespe, SSA’s Nutrition Programs Manager.

Thanks to Gary Hacker who is back restocking the Norma Roberts, volunteer coordinator Jennifer Leonard and “Lucy” are Friend- Senior Information Corners for the AniMeals Program, with her ly Visitors and brighten the day of their Jeffery’s Catering who prepares tasty Meals on around town, and he’s also pup “Lucky.” senior with weekly visits. Wheels for seniors 365 days a year. a Senior Ambassador. $12,500 Grant to Support Seniors and Pets “This grant will allow Senior Services of Alexandria has received a $12,500 Meals on Wheels Loves Pets grant us … to keep pets for its pet support program, AniMeals on Wheels. Funding will be used to provide happy and healthy, expanded access to needed veterinary care, grooming services, and other support as and address the kinds needed for the pets of Meals on Wheels and current AniMeals clients, which can often be of crises that might a financial and physical challenge for older adults to manage on their own. The Ani- otherwise lead our Meals program is a collaboration between SSA and the Animal Welfare League of Alex- clients to surrender a andria (AWLA). “Senior Services of Alexandria is pleased cherished friend.” to have received this grant that will pro- — Stella Hanly, vide monies for expanded care for the pets Executive Director, AWLA of current Meals on Wheels and AniMeals clients, said Mary Lee Anderson, SSA’s Ex- happy, healthy lives together. ecutive Director. “SSA will collaborate with “Having the company of a pet not only its AniMeals partner, The Animal Welfare makes homebound seniors feel less lonely League of Alexandria, to provide expanded but also improves their physical and men- services for clients’ pets including veterinary tal well-being, helping them to stay happier, care, grooming services and more. Ensuring healthier and more independent. Yet, nearly that Meals on Wheels clients’ pets continue half of the clients receiving pet assistance to stay healthy is one step toward combating from Meals on Wheels don’t have anyone loneliness.” From left, Joanna Fortin, Director of Community Programs, Animal Welfare League else to help them with their pet needs,” “For years, we’ve been glad to help be- of Alexandria; Mary Lee Anderson, Executive Director, Senior Services of Alexandria; said Meals on Wheels America President loved pets stay with their owners, working and Stella Hanly, Executive Director of Animal Welfare League of Alexandria. and CEO Ellie Hollander. “That’s why we’re alongside Senior Services of Alexandria so appreciative of our growing partnership through the AniMeals component of Meals ished friend.” year, Meals on Wheels America and PetSmart with PetSmart Charities – it makes it pos- on Wheels,” said Animal Welfare League of Funding for this grant was made possible Charities awarded $601,538 in grants to 79 sible for us to continue to invest Meals on Alexandria Executive Director Stella Hanly. through a partnership between Meals on local Meals on Wheels programs through the Wheels Loves Pets grants in local Meals on “This grant will allow us to extend those Wheels America and PetSmart Charities as Meals on Wheels Loves Pets initiative. One Wheels programs, like Senior Services of Al- efforts to keep pets happy and healthy, and part of Meals on Wheels America’s strategic in four seniors lives alone and, for many of exandria and the Animal Welfare League of address the kinds of crises that might oth- effort to combat social isolation and loneli- them their pet is their closest companion; Alexandria, to provide critical supplies, care erwise lead our clients to surrender a cher- ness among seniors across the country. This this funding helps to ensure they can live and assistance for pets of seniors.” 4 v Alexandria Gazette Packet v August 12-18, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Felicia Brewster a local Realtor shops for an older adult receiving Groceries to Go.

“This grant will allow us … to keep pets happy and healthy, and address the kinds of crises that might otherwise lead our clients to surrender a cherished friend.” — Stella Hanly, Executive Director, AWLA happy, healthy lives together. “Having the company of a pet not only makes homebound seniors feel less lonely but also improves their physical and men- tal well-being, helping them to stay happier, healthier and more independent. Yet, nearly half of the clients receiving pet assistance from Meals on Wheels don’t have anyone else to help them with their pet needs,” said Meals on Wheels America President and CEO Ellie Hollander. “That’s why we’re so appreciative of our growing partnership with PetSmart Charities – it makes it pos- sible for us to continue to invest Meals on Wheels Loves Pets grants in local Meals on Wheels programs, like Senior Services of Al- exandria and the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria, to provide critical supplies, care and assistance for pets of seniors.” www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet v August 12-18, 2021 v 5 Opinion Alexandria Gazette Packet Deciding on Funds, Addressing Needs www.AlexandriaGazette.com @AlexGazette An independent, locally owned weekly newspaper delivered By Sen. Scott Surovell to homes and businesses. Commentary We also worked to reform Virginia’s judicial Published by appellate system. Prior to our action, Virgin- Local Media Connection LLC n Aug. 10, the Gener- exandria, Richmond and Lynchburg ia was the only state in America that did not 1606 King Street al Assembly completed combined sewers which currently provide a right of appeal to litigants in either Alexandria, Virginia 22314 work in a special session dump billions of gallons of untreat- criminal or civil cases. In 2020, I carried a reso- Free digital edition delivered to your email box. Go to Oto appropriate federal ed sewage into the Potomac and lution directing the Judicial Council of Virginia connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe pandemic funds and elect judges. James rivers. to study the issue and that group recommended In March, President Joe Biden v $25 million for the Virginia a change. I worked with Senate Judiciary Chair- NEWS DEPARTMENT: [email protected] signed the $1.9 trillion American Res- state park maintenance backlog. I man Sen. John Edwards to draft the legislation Editor & Publisher cue Plan Act (ARPA). ARPA brought had hoped to address a statewide which passed during the regular session. Mary Kimm $4.3 billion in unexpected funds to $275 million backlog so we can The study recommended that the legislature [email protected] @MaryKimm Virginia but required it to be invested in specific complete work at Stafford County’s Widewater elect six new judges to handle the case volume Jeanne Theismann areas such as water, sewer and broadband in- State Park. I will continue to press for this in the generated by creating a right of appeal. Because [email protected] frastructure to respond to the COVID-19 emer- Governor’s next budget. of two retirements among existing judges, we @TheismannMedia gency, address pandemic impacts and provide v $111 million in financial aid for low-in- had to elect eight new members to the Court. Janet Barnett, John Bordner, Mark Mogle government services suffering from revenue come Virginia college students; After a six-month vetting process by nine bar Contributing Photographers reductions because of the pandemic. Unlike v An historic $250 million investment in our associations that considered 82 applicants, our [email protected] other counties, Fairfax County received $222 stressed mental health system; caucuses vetted candidates and elected eight Shirley Ruhe v Contributing Photographer and Writer million in direct ARPA funding with similar re- $120 million for consumer utility assis- new members to the Court of Appeals of Vir- [email protected] quirements. tance; ginia. v Eden Brown, Bridgette Adu-Wadier Here is how we voted to invest most of these New funds for supportive housing, sub- Four new judges will come from Northern Vir- Contributing Writers funds: stance abuse treatment and community crisis ginia. This is a welcome development because [email protected] v $700 million to build “last-mile” broad- systems; previously our region had only one member, but Hope Nelson v Food Writer band and close Virginia’s digital divide over the $5,000 bonuses for all Virginia State Po- we have over 32% of Virginia’s population. The [email protected] next three years; lice (VSP) and state Capitol Police officers and Court of Appeals has never had a judge from Ar- @kitchenrecess v $862 million for Virginia’s Unemployment $3,000 bonuses for deputy sheriffs and correc- lington or Alexandria. There were no judges on Michael Pope Senior Reporter Trust Fund which was depleted. Without our tional officers around the state. We also fund- the existing court who lived west of Richmond. [email protected] action, it would have been forced to assess ma- ed bonuses to alleviate salary compression in We elected one judge from Charlottesville and @michaelleepope jor unemployment insurance premium increas- the VSP and $5,000 recruitment bonuses with one from Roanoke. Four new judges are Afri- ADVERTISING: For advertising information es on small businesses; $2,000 recruitment relocation grants. can-Americans and four are women. The exist- [email protected] v $73.6 million to upgrade the Virginia Em- v $3 million to improve access to early vot- ing court had only one minority member and 703-778-9431 ployment Commission’s systems to improve re- ing; three women. Debbie Funk v Disply Advertising/National Sales sponses to unemployment claims; $4 million for gun violence prevention The new judges represent a diversity of legal 703-778-9444 v $250 million for school heating, ventila- programs; expertise, practice areas, life experiences and [email protected] v tion and air conditioning upgrades if localities We also retained $1.1 billion of ARPA perspectives and eight judges have not been Tara Lloyd Display Advertising, 703-740-7128 match those funds; localities that are tradition- funds to appropriate in 2022 contingent upon elected since the Court was created in 1985. [email protected] ally charged with funding 100% of school con- Delta variant progress. Our action was truly historic and will greatly David Griffin struction costs in Virginia. We also passed an amendment requiring bolster our judicial system and how it operates. Marketing Assistant 703-778-9431 $411 million for wastewater treatment in- the Department of Motor Vehicles to open for It is an honor to serve you. Please share your [email protected] frastructure, including $125 million for the Al- in-person service within 30 days. views with me at [email protected]. Classified & Employment Advertising 703-778-9431

Alexandria Treatment Court Partners with NOVA Parks Publisher Jerry Vernon 703-549-0004 [email protected] OVA Parks, a multi-ju- tives such community healthier. Passes to the are affiliated with is interested in Art/Design: risdictional organization as free admission to local cultur- Great Waves Water Park and the partnering Laurence Foong, John Heinly, overseeing a number of al experiences. Incentives which Cameron Run Mini-Golf Park will with the Alexandria Treatment Ali Khaligh N Production Manager: parks and recreational facilities in allow participants to build on per- allow ATC participants to bond Court, please contact Deputy Com- Geovani Flores Northern Virginia, recently part- sonal relationships with their chil- with their children and create monwealth’s Attorney David Lord Editor Emeritus: nered with the Alexandria Treat- dren carry particular significance. childhood memories.” at [email protected] or Mary Anne Weber ment Court to assist treatment NOVA Parks donated a signif- If you or an organization you 703-746-4100. CIRCULATION court participants in their path icant number of passes to two Circulation Manager: Ann Oliver toward recovery. ATC seeks to pro- fun-filled Alexandria amusements [email protected] vide treatment and assistance to popular with children, the Great individuals diagnosed with sub- Waves Water Park and the Camer- Let Us Know Your View A Connection Newspaper Connection Newspapers welcomes views on any public issue. stance use disorders who stand on Run Mini-Golf Park, to be used Letters must be signed. Include home address and home and business numbers; The Alexandria Gazette Packet is distributed weekly charged with non-violent offenses. as incentives for program partici- to selected homes in the City of Alexandria. we will only print your name and town name. Any owners or occupants of premises that do not Participants commit to in-depth pants. wish to receive the paper can notify the publisher Letters are routinely edited for length, libel, grammar, by telephone at 703-778-9426 or by email to substance abuse treatment, includ- Alexandria Commonwealth’s At- good taste, civility and factual errors. [email protected], and the distributor will be notified to discontinue service. ing individual and group therapy, torney Bryan Porter said: “I want Send letters frequent testing, and participation to thank Online www.connectionnewspapers.com/contact/letter/ in community support groups in NOVA Parks for helping mem- By email: [email protected] return for an opportunity to have bers of the Alexandria communi- By mail to: Letters to the Editor The Connection non-violent criminal charges re- ty on their path toward recovery. 1606 King St., Alexandria VA 22314 duced or dismissed. Participants Our innovative Alexandria Treat- who successfully progress through ment Court program relies on the You can comment on our Facebook page or find us on Twitter the ATC program receive in-court generosity of individuals and or- www.facebook.com/connectionnewspapers recognition of meaningful mile- ganizations to provide the incen- https://twitter.com/alexgazette stones. tives which facilitate rehabilita- https://twitter.com/mtvernongazette That recognition may take many tion. NOVA Parks is an important https://twitter.com/followfairfax forms, to include receiving incen- partner in making the Alexandria 6 v Alexandria Gazette Packet v August 12-18, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Obiutary Alexandria Gazette Packet Thomas “Tommy” Lacey Jr. www.AlexandriaGazette.com @AlexGazette Recent T.C. graduate An independent, locally owned weekly newspaper delivered to homes and businesses. Published by dies at 18. Local Media Connection LLC By Jeanne Theismann 1606 King Street Alexandria, Virginia 22314 Gazette Packet Free digital edition delivered to your email box. Go to connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe ommy Lacey was a towering fig- ure. At 6 feet 5 inches tall, he NEWS DEPARTMENT: was a gentle giant with a passion [email protected] Tfor sports and hanging out with Editor & Publisher friends at Al’s Steakhouse in Del Ray. A Mary Kimm [email protected] standout lacrosse player, the 2021 graduate @MaryKimm of T.C. Williams High School was preparing Jeanne Theismann to attend James Madison University in the [email protected] @TheismannMedia fall when he died unexpectedly on Aug. 4. Janet Barnett, John Bordner, He was 18 years old. Mark Mogle Thomas Edward Lacey Jr. was born Oct. Contributing Photographers [email protected] 1, 2002, to Nancy Lacey and Thomas Lacey Shirley Ruhe Sr. He was raised in Alexandria along with Contributing Photographer and Writer [email protected] younger brothers Jack and Will and sister Molly. Photo contributed Eden Brown, Bridgette Adu-Wadier Tommy attended both public and private Contributing Writers Tommy Lacey died Aug. 4 at the age [email protected] schools, including Trinity MOPS Preschool, of 18. Hope Nelson Maury Elementary, Basilica School of Saint Food Writer Mary, Bishop Ireton High School and T.C. Tommy, who died with his parents by his [email protected] @kitchenrecess Williams High School. He was known for his side, was predeceased by his grandfathers, Michael Pope athletic prowess and love of sports, playing Cdr. Archibald S. Thompson, U.S. Navy, and Senior Reporter [email protected] football as an ankle biter through his fresh- Robert A. Lacey, and his cousin, Albert H. @michaelleepope man year of high school. He especially ex- Gruneisen, IV. celled at lacrosse, playing for eight years at In addition to his parents and siblings, ADVERTISING: For advertising information Alexandria Lacrosse Club, Bishop Ireton and Tommy is survived by grandmothers Patryce [email protected] 703-778-9431 T.C. Williams. Thompson and Eleanor Lacey, aunts Kath- Summers were spent with family in Geor- erine, Margaret, Anne, Elizabeth, Ellen Debbie Funk Disply Advertising/National Sales gia along with an annual two-week stay at (James), and Natalie, his Uncle Robert and 703-778-9444 [email protected] Camp Laney in Mentone, Ala., where Tom- nine first cousins.

Tara Lloyd my forged many lifelong friendships. He was A funeral Mass will be held Thursday, Aug. Display Advertising, 703-740-7128 known for his toothy grin, easy going sense of 12, at 10 a.m. at the Basilica of Saint Mary, [email protected] Licensed Brokers in DC, VA & MD humor, and his fierce devotion to his family 310 South Royal St. Donations may be made David Griffin and friends. As the oldest cousin on the Lacey in Tommy’s memory to the WENDT Center David W. Spires Marjorie J. Spires Marketing Assistant 703-765-3500 • Cell: 703-850-4256 703-660-6789 • Cell: 703-472-7713 703-778-9431 side of the family, Tommy was the pied piper for Loss & Healing, P.O. Box 45924, Balti- [email protected] of spirited high jinks on family vacations. more, Md., 21297 or www.wendtcenter.org Classified & Employment OPEN SUNDAY, AUGUST 15, 1-4PM Advertising 703-778-9431 Bulletin Board 1703 Maple Hill Place, Alexandria, VA 22302 - $1,125,000 Publisher *Enclave of Contemporary Patio Homes Jerry Vernon Submit civic/community announcements at ConnectionNewspapers.com/Calendar. Photos and OPEN 703-549-0004 artwork welcome. Deadline is Thursday at noon, at least two weeks before the event. on a quiet cul-de-sac next to Forest and [email protected] Chinquapin Parks & Taylor Run Stream Art/Design: EXTENSION OF CDC EVICTION MORA- Natural Setting-Backs to Trees *Phenomenal Laurence Foong, John Heinly, TORIUM Location just inside Beltway near King Ali Khaligh to eligible households facing a housing crisis Production Manager: On Aug. 3, 2021, the U.S. Centers for Disease Street Metro, Old Town Alexandria and Geovani Flores Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a or homelessness. Residents can call the DCHS Pentagon *Unique floor plan *Approx. new order temporarily halting evictions in Customer Call Center at 703-746-5700 or text 4000 sq ft *4 BRs/3.5 BAs/Large 2-Car Editor Emeritus: 703-346-5599 to learn about rental assis- Mary Anne Weber locations where there have been surges in Garage *3 Finished Lvls w/2 Walkout Lvls COVID-19 and increases in cases of the Delta tance, as well as other available emergency assistance. *Main Lvl Primary Suite *One level living CIRCULATION variant. The moratorium is in effect through w/Laundry on Main & Lower Lvls *Vaulted & 2-Story Ceilings, Chef’s Kitchen with New Circulation Manager: Oct. 3 and covers all renters living in commu- Ann Oliver CHARLES E. BEATLEY LIBRARY UNDER- Cooktop adjacent to Family/Den area *Lrg. Formal Living/Dining Rms *Light/Bright *Freshly [email protected] nities, including the City of Alexandria, that painted *Deck *Fenced Rear *Low Maintenance *New Roof 2019 *New Carrier HVAC meet these criteria. Information of commu- GOES PARKING LOT REPAIRS w/Air Scrubber 2021 * Do Not Miss this Incredible Property! Directions: King St Rail Station, nity transmission can be viewed on the CDC Parking will be limited at the Charles E. Beatley, A Connection Newspaper west on Route 7, L on Janney’s Lane. R on Francis Hammond Pky - becomes Maple Hill - to 1703. COVID tracker. Jr. Central Library, located at 5005 Duke The Alexandria Gazette Packet is distributed weekly Rent relief related to pandemic income loss Street in Alexandria, due to a parking lot to selected homes in the City of Alexandria. continues to be available for Alexandria repair project beginning Monday, Aug. 9. Any owners or occupants of premises that do not OPEN 2112 Belle View Boulevard wish to receive the paper can notify the publisher residents. The Virginia Rent Relief Program The branch and parking lot will remain open by telephone at 703-778-9426 or by email to (RRP) provides rent relief to both renters and during construction; however, sections of the [email protected], and the Alexandria, VA 22307 distributor will be notified to discontinue service. landlords: RRP provides eligible renters with parking lot will be closed during construction assistance to cover rent payments past due causing limited parking. $689,000 beginning April 1, 2020. Renters can submit This five-month project will improve drainage *Modified Cape Cod on Corner Lot in popular applications online or call 703-962-1884 for and parking conditions for customers at this more information. location. Beatley Central Library is open for Bucknell Manor Subdivision *Two-Story Landlords can apply on behalf of tenants to business during normal hours throughout all Addition *4 Bedrooms *3 Remodeled Full receive financial assistance for past-due construction activity. The parking lot project Baths *Remodeled Kitchen *Replacement and current rental payments. Landlords can is scheduled to be completed in January Windows *Hardwood Floors on Both Levels submit applications online, email rentrelief@ 2022. *1 Car Garage at Rear *Expansive Decking virginiahousing.com, or call the City of Alex- Consider using public transit to reach the library. *2 Driveways *Privacy Hedge at Front & Side Elevations *Loads of Space in Super Location andria Office of Housing at 703-746-4990 for Metrobus 8Z, 29K, 29 N, 21A and 25 B stop just outside the Beltway on Bus Line and near County Rec Center & abundant shopping! eligibility assistance. near the library and DASH buses AT7 and AT8 Dir: From Alexandria Old Town, GW Parkway south, R Belle View Blvd to 2112 on Right. The City’s Department of Community and Hu- stop at the library. man Services (DCHS) Office of Community SEE PICTURES & FLOOR PLANS at www.partnersinrealestate.com Services (OCS) also provides rental assistance See Bulletin, Page 9 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet v August 12-18, 2021 v 7 News All Fired Up Friendship Firehouse Festival celebrates 25 years. By Jeanne Theismann Gazette Packet

he Friendship Firehouse Festival made a triumphant return after a one-year hiatus to celebrate its T25th anniversary Aug.7 at the historic Friendship Firehouse Museum on S. Alfred Street. “We had around 200 people come through the museum today,” said Catherine Weinraub, the historian and site manager of the Friendship Firehouse Museum. “I think that is a good turnout for the first festival in two years.” Sponsored by the Friendship Veterans Fire Engine Association, the festival saw Nur Telli, left, with son Sulaman, 4, and Aisha, 6, pose for a photo early crowds enjoying clear skies, learning in front of 19th century firefighting apparatus during a visit to the about the city’s historic firefighting appara- Friendship Firehouse Museum as part of the Friendship Firehouse tus and perusing the many booths lining the Festival Aug. 7. 100 block of South Alfred Street, including that of local author Larry Issa. “This has been a good day,” said Issa, Gretchen Bulova, Director of the Office of Histor- who was debuting his award-winning “Get ic Alexandria, holds cookies given to attendees Back to the Book.” in memory of longtime Friendship Veterans Fire “I enjoy meeting and talking with every- Association president Joe Shumard Aug. 7 at the one and I don’t think the rain dampened Friendship Firehouse Festival. anyone’s spirits.” Cloudy skies moved over the region “I am happy with our turnout and hope followed by a steady rain, causing the fes- people will come back and visit,” Weinraub tival to end one hour early, but not before added. “We are open once a month and Photos by attendees were given free fire helmets and invite everyone to learn about the history of Jeanne Theismann/ special cookies handed out in memory of firefighting in Alexandria.” Gazette Packet longtime Friendship Veterans Fire Engine www.alexandriava.gov/FriendshipFire- Association president Joe Shumard. house

Alexandria author Larry Issa debuts his award-winning “Get Back in the Book” at the Aug. 7 Friendship Firehouse Festival.

Del Ray Balloon Boutique owners Rob- ert Groves and Linda Johnson display Representatives of the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office in front of historic fire fighting apparatus Aug. 7 at their creative designs during the Aug. 7 the Friendship Firehouse Festival. Friendship Firehouse Festival. 8 v Alexandria Gazette Packet v August 12-18, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Bulletin lost (adj): 1. unable to find the way. 2. not appreciated or understood. 3. no longer From Page 7 flower distribution, cheerleaders, and route monitors. https://www. owned or known volunteeralexandria.org/ FALL RECREATION PROGRAM Assistance League of Northern Virginia AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW is an all-volunteer non-profit or- The Department of Recreation, Parks ganization that feeds, clothes and & Cultural Activities’ fall program- provides reading assistance and Adopt ming will offer a variety of in-per- books to children in need. Assis- son options for all ages and new tance League’s programs touch the virtual programs. A complete list lives of hundreds of children in Donate of fall programs will be available Fairfax and Prince William Coun- on the City’s website Wednesday, ties and the City of Alexandria. Aug. 4. Registration for fall classes There are many volunteer oppor- Volunteer and activities offered by RPCA will tunities for community members begin at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, to contribute to helping those in August 18, for City residents and need. To learn more, email info@ Volunteers needed for on Friday, Aug. 20, for nonresi- alnv.org, or visit www.alnv.org. dents. Fall registration applies to Join Friends’ Board. Those who care adoption events, programs taking place September about mental health, the Alexan- through December 2021. dria community, and collaborating fostering, Summer registration continues to be with fellow residents to make transportation, open for the end of the season sure the City’s most vulnerable classes and camps. Visit alexandri- residents have a chance to thrive, adoption center ava.gov/Recreation to learn more then consider joining the Board of about the City’s summer recreation Friends of the Alexandria Mental caretaking and more. programs and to register. For Health Center. The Friends Board is in-person registration, visit the Lee an all-volunteer group of residents Center, 1108 Jefferson St. or call that oversees the administration the Registration and Reservation of one of Alexandria’s top mental Office at 703-746-5414 Monday health charities. Friends has no through Friday between 9 a.m. and paid staff, so Board members, 8 p.m. working on average 10 hours per month, share the day-to-day work VOLUNTEERS WANTED needed to accomplish its goals. ACPS- Help Provide Meals to Children Interested candidates should email Alexandria City Public School (ACPS) [email protected]. will provide two days worth of STEM Professionals Needed. Help breakfast and lunch meals with assist K-12 STEM teachers as part a snack pack free for any en- of the American Association for the rolled ACPS student on Mondays, Advancement of Science’s STEM Wednesdays, and Fridays. Friday Volunteer Program, stemvolun- distribution will include a meal(s) teers.org, during the 2018-19 for Saturday. Volunteers will meet school year. In the 2017-18 school at various schools to assist with year, there are 85 volunteers in 6 lostdogandcatrescue.org packing boxes and loading buses Northern Virginia school districts. with boxed meals. Then, volun- Contact Don Rea at 571-551- 2488, teers will ride the bus along to or [email protected]. distribute the meals while on site Volunteer Adult Mentors Needed. Help at a few ACPS mobile pop-up loca- assist the Department of Family tions. Click on each location to sign Services’ BeFriendA-Child mentor- Same Company, Same Employees, up: Francis C. Hammond Middle ing program. The mentors provide School, TC Williams High School, opportunities for companionship, or Jefferson Houston School. guidance and support to children Same Great Value - Now Celebrating 20 Years! www.volunteeralexandria.org who have been abused and ne- Alexandria Dept. of Community and glected, or who are at risk of abuse Human Services- and neglect. Contact Ibrahim Khalil TWO POOR TEACHERS Volunteer Guardian ([email protected]) Looking for individuals who can assure at 703-324-4547. the well-being of an incapacitated ALIVE! offers numerous programs Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling Alexandrian living in an Assisted that aid low-income families in Living Facility or Nursing Facility. Alexandria that rely on volunteers: Volunteer Guardians are appointed monthly food distributions, furni- by the Court to make decisions for ture, houseware and emergency older Alexandria residents who food deliveries, and community Alexandria author Larry Issa debuts his award-winning “Get have lost the capacity to under- food drives. Individuals, families Back in the Book” at the Aug. 7 Friendship Firehouse Festival. stand the consequences of their and groups are encouraged to decisions. The volunteer will visit participate. Students can earn the resident monthly and follow community service hours by par- the person’s wishes as much as pos- ticipating. Visit www.alive-inc.org/ sible. www.volunteeralexandria.org volunteer.htm or contact the Vol- Alexandria Families for Safer Streets - unteer Coordinator at volunteers@ Executive Assistant to AFSS Board alive-inc.org. of Directors Volunteer Drivers Needed. Drivers The agency is seeking an executive as- needed by the American Cancer sistant to help coordinate a diverse Society to take cancer patients to group of tasks necessary to keep treatment in Northern Virginia. To us on track and moving forward. volunteer, call 1-800-227-2345 or Someone with office manager go to cancer.org/drive. skills would be the ideal candidate. RSVP, a volunteer network for seniors www.volunteeralexandria.org seeking service opportunities • Electrical (ELE) Fully Insured & Class A Licensed ALIVE! Volunteers are needed to assist in and around Fairfax County, • Gas Fitting (GFC) Since 1999 with multiple programs relating to Arlington County and the City of 10% down their Food Program, ALIVE! House, Alexandria, offers a wide array of • Heating Ventilation and Air nothing until the job and Alexandria Eviction Prevention opportunities for volunteers 55 is complete for the Partnership Program will distribute and older. RSVP volunteers enjoy Conditioning (HVA) food at Mobile Pop-ups and Truck flexible schedules, free accident • Plumbing (PLB) past 17 years to Trunk events, etc. https://www. and liability insurance while volunteeralexandria.org/ALIVE serving, optional mileage and meal • Residential Building (RBC) Alzheimer’s Association – Walk to End reimbursement and are invited Alzheimer’s to volunteer group projects and Saturday, Sept. 25 (National Harbor) & social gatherings. To sign up for an Free Estimates 703-999-2928 Saturday, Oct. 9, 2021 The National upcoming orientation, email Carly Check if your contractor is licensed at the state level Mall, Washington, DC. Volunteers Hubicki at chubicki@volunteerfair- http://www.DPOR.virginia.gov are needed on the day of the events fax.org or call RSVP at 703-403- to help with set up, sign placement, 5360. To learn more about RSVP, Visit our website: www.twopoorteachers.com information services, promise visit www.rsvpnova.org. www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet v August 12-18, 2021 v 9 HomeLifeStyle News Itching to Know Cause of Local Phenomenon

to live in.” The Possible invasion of mites feed on midge larva in- Chiggers are active this time of year, but it is the oak leaf itch mite. side the galls. not a big problem in a metropolitan area.” “This is very During the summer of 2007, a bite rash By Mercia Hobson interesting,” wrote Lori Cham- outbreak occurred in the western suburbs The Gazette berlain, Virginia Department of Chicago, reported U.S. Pharmacist. They, of Forestry, in an email to the too, were not only dealing with the myste- eople in Northern Vir- Connection the same day. “Un- rious bites but the return of swarms of cica- Photo courtesy of Anne Walker ginia may reconsider fortunately…there has not been das, like Northern Virginia. Candles in hurricane lanterns where they enjoy the a sample submitted to the Vir- According to the Illinois Natural History Photo credit Gregory S. Manalo Photo by Anne Walker such as these by Farm and Feast outdoors. A mite so tiny ginia Tech Insect Identification Survey report, Entomologist Ed Zaborski P deduced a connection between the bites and A cozy throw can add an ele- The warm colors in this room are a simple way to transition the naked eye cannot see it may Lab this year.” ment of warmth to an interior by Anne Walker evoke visions of home accessories from summer insert her tiny stylets and secret Photos of the apparent bites, the cicadas’ return. Zaborski believed the space autumn. to fall. saliva into residents and suck like the ones taken Aug. 7 on bites came from the Pyemotes (itch mites) their fluids. Its bite packs such a the arms of two Herndon resi- appearing to feed on the cicada eggs. In punch for some its after-effects dents, John Pilcicki, a wildlife 2004, Kansas reported a significant infesta- cause sleepless nights and visits biologist at DOD, and Heather, tion of the oak leaf itch mite and Nebraska to physicians. showed areas approximately in 2005 when the mites fed on midge larva Design Ideas to inside galls on pin oak trees. Reports popped up in North- two centimeters in diameter, ern Virginia in late July and ear- with a central vesicle, pustule- “Weather associated with spring cold ly August, neighborhood social or blister-like swelling. fronts or human or animal migration pat- Welcome Fall media posts seeking cause and terns may have carried the Pyemotes [itch relief for what appeared to be IN A RANDOM SAMPLE of ten mites] to Illinois from neighboring states, an outbreak of human pruritic individuals in Herndon over such as Kansas and Nebraska,” cited the re- Small changes in dermatitis, itchy rashes, and le- two days, six reported near port. sions from bites, possibly from word-for-word complaints. The Dr. Raymond Cloyd, Department of Ento- home accessories can the oak leaf itch mite. How to bites, similar to scores of ones mology Kansas State University said in Ex- get rid of the pests? The Arling- posted and described online, tension Entomology Oak Leaf Itch Mite that transform a space. ton Facebook group, “Arlington occurred mainly on the Hern- for “the first time in Kansas … the oak leaf Neighbors Helping Each Other don residents’ necks, shoulders, itch mite has been a problem in successive By Marilyn Campbell Through COVID-19,” recorded upper torsos, arms, and hands, years (2015 and 2016), which is likely as- The Gazette nearly 300 posts on the mat- although they were described ter by Aug. 10. The discussion elsewhere on the body as well. hen it comes to interior design, atten- appeared in other local online Based on complaints, a pat- tion to even the smallest of details took groups as well. tern of similar descriptions on new importance over the past year. Some entomologists and sci- emerged: extremely itchy, pain- WSpending more time indoors has al- Photo courtesy of Sallie Lord entists say that the source of ful welts, and extended red- lowed us to experience the ways in which minor em- Designer Sallie Lord says the approach of Autumn mysterious bites may be the ness, with symptoms lasting 7 bellishments can have a major impact on the mood is time to reorganize an office space to prepare anthropoid, the oak leaf itch to 14 days. Some of Heather’s and feel of a room. From throw pillows in a living for a new school year. mite, Pyemotes herfsi. The bites were on her hand. She had room to doormats in a mud room, local designers un- eight-legged parasite could be been gardening and did not see veil accessories that can help one transition from sum- one, said Sherry Hope-Kennedy of Studio SHK. “Keep giving humans and pets a “mite or feel anything until the next mer to autumn while maintaining serenity and style. the main area more neutral while having more fun shower” as the invisible pests day. According to the CDC, per- “Don’t look at this as a major undertaking or you’ll with private areas.” fall from flagging pin oak tree sons bitten by Pyemotes herfsi, be overwhelmed,” said Alexandria interior designer Seasonal blossoms in colors that herald the start branches or crawl onto them, the oak leaf itch mite, generally Allison Bohlke. “It doesn’t have to be time consuming. of fall can add an air of chic serenity to any interi- sight unseen as they garden or do not recall being bitten but As the weather begins to cool down, take an hour to or space. “Fresh flowers will always be in style, said sit in the grass. feel an itchy discomfort (which look around your house for places where you remove Walker. “Like real candlelight, fresh flowers are a low- Other Virginia entomologists can be intense) beginning 10 to things that scream summer and swap them out for cost way to bring real joy into your home.” and scientists say the cause has 16 hours afterward, and lasting cozy alternatives.” A wooden drink tray not only conjures up woodsy yet to be scientifically qualified. up to 14 days. “I created a blue and white nautical theme in my images of autumn, but it’s versatile, functional and The biter’s identity is not sup- Kirsten Burls, Virginia Coop- family room for summer,” continued Bohlke. “In a can be used year round, particularly as school begins. ported in the area by a sample, erative Extension, Virginia Tech month or so, I will put away my linen throw pillows “Filled with flower vases, it can be a casual-chic cen- the gold confirmation standard. Virginia State University, said, and cotton throws and bring out my cashmere throws terpiece on your dining table, or you can use it to car- The oak leaf itch mite, Pyemotes “I’ve never heard anybody sug- and wool throw pillows in warm camel and rich cream ry barware or beverages to your guests,” said Walker. herfsi, was confirmed when a gest a way to obtain the actu- for a cozy look.” “In your mudroom, it could hold keys, phones and sample was submitted to the al insect identification. They’re One of the easiest ways to transition home decor other things you need to drop in a central location. Insect Diagnostic Lab at Kansas too small … My advice to indi- from summer to fall is to add candlelight, advises Po- “The [metal bin] has an outdoorsy, cool vibe with State University in 2014, after viduals about this phenomenon tomac interior designer Anne Walker of Anne Walker industrial chic décor,” continued Walker. “Use [them] that region experienced similar [is] to say, ‘This too will pass.’” Interiors Design. “There’s something about the warm to corral office supplies on your desk, to hold televi- experiences, according to ksal. People should just be vigilant glow of real candlelight that just can’t be replaced. It’s sion remote controls in your family room, or to serve com. and rule out other possibilities. an instant mood lifter,” she said. “Hurricane lan- snacks when you entertain. Fill them with rolled-up On Monday, Aug. 9, Eric Day, She ran through other pests terns come in several sizes and ini beautiful smoked towels near your mudroom or guest room. Fill them Department of Entomology, Vir- whose bites also cause raised glass or clear glass. We use six in assorted sizes on our with plants to make an herb garden on your patio. ginia Polytechnic Institute, and red areas but noted the differ- patio all year round, and they never get old.” The possibilities are endless.” State University said, “This is ences. “Ticks, there’s generally a Kitchens and bathrooms can serve as a backdrop for Whether one hour or one month, spending time on not a mite we have received in tip … People are aware of when cool weather inspiration. “If you’ve been using white a home refresh is worth the effort, says Chantilly de- the lab…They [the oak leaf tree they are bitten by mosquitos … hand towels and kitchen towels, try getting versions signer Sallie Lord of GHI Team. “This is a great time mite] are often associated with Bed bugs are harder to spot but in bold colors or monogrammed hand towels using for a purge to clean out the desk drawers to prepare insect galls. Midges [any small do result in finding evidence … thread in warm, jewel tones,” said Bohlke. for a new school year ahead,” she said. “We love a two-winged fly] make the gall, In fact, the power of color should not be underesti- well organized space that you can walk in and feel the a protective structure for them See Invasion, Page 11 mated. “Use color so that the spaces appeal to every- design and the function.” 10 v Alexandria Gazette Packet v August 12-18, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Invasion Suspected

From Page 10

Chiggers are active this time of year, but it is not a big problem in a metropolitan area.” During the summer of 2007, a bite rash outbreak occurred in the western suburbs of Chicago, reported U.S. Pharmacist. They, too, were not only dealing with the myste- rious bites but the return of swarms of cica- das, like Northern Virginia. According to the Illinois Natural History Survey report, Entomologist Ed Zaborski deduced a connection between the bites and the cicadas’ return. Zaborski believed the bites came from the Pyemotes (itch mites) appearing to feed on the cicada eggs. In 2004, Kansas reported a significant infesta- tion of the oak leaf itch mite and Nebraska in 2005 when the mites fed on midge larva inside galls on pin oak trees. “Weather associated with spring cold Photo by Mercia Hobson/The Gazette fronts or human or animal migration pat- Oak trees with branch dieback, “flag- terns may have carried the Pyemotes [itch ging,” possibly harboring oak leaf itch mites] to Illinois from neighboring states, mites as they feed on cicada eggs and such as Kansas and Nebraska,” cited the re- larvae. port. Dr. Raymond Cloyd, Department of Ento- sociated with the mild winters we have ex- mology Kansas State University said in Ex- perienced.” tension Entomology Oak Leaf Itch Mite that Adria Bordas is the Unit Coordinator Se- for “the first time in Kansas … the oak leaf nior Extension Agent-Horticulture Virgin- itch mite has been a problem in successive years (2015 and 2016), which is likely as- See Invasion, Page 13 Sign up for www.connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe to all of our papers FREE DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION

www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet v August 12-18, 2021 v 11 Entertainment Dine In, Out or at Home This Summer Restaurant Week

By Hope Nelson and for one, both featuring an array of Gazette Packet protein choices to enhance your tortillas. The two-person option offers a choice of ike an old friend that you know up to four proteins (equaling a pound you can rely on year after year, in weight total), ranging from brisket to Alexandria’s summer Restaurant vegan chorizo, as well as eight tortillas LWeek is almost here once more. and all the fixings, including guacamole, The 10-day festival of all things foodie chips, rice and beans and two elote. The kicks off Aug. 20, but you’ll want to make one-person menu offers a half-pound your reservations for many spots well of proteins (choice of two) with all the ahead of time. Not quite ready to dine sides except for elote. Not feeling the in? No problem. There are plenty of to-go taco love? No problem. The taqueria also options available as well. has quesadillas and wings on the Restau- rant Week menu. Aldo’s Italian Kitchen, 2850 Eisenhow- er Ave. Suite 1 Yunnan by Potomac, 814 N. Fairfax St. Indoor dining, outdoor dining, takeout Noodles, bao buns and all the fixings: or delivery – Aldo’s has your options for Where do we sign up? Yunnan by Poto- this Restaurant Week. Begin your meal mac is offering both in-person and to-go with a soup or salad, then select from orders for its Restaurant Week menu, and chicken marsala, lobster ravioli or grilled either way, you’ll finish the meal happy salmon as an entrée, and finally finish and full. Their two-person deal offers up things off with a choice of cheesecakes one small plate to start – choose from – chocolate chip and limoncello are on Asian pear radishes, chili bok choy, and offer – or a cannoli. trees, including jambalaya pasta, chicken ranging from curry puffs to spring rolls, and more – one bao bun or dumpling order to and waffles, and, of course, mussels. then moves onto a main course featuring share, and then two mixian noodle entrees, Augie’s Mussel House, 1106 King St. the likes of panang curry, fried rice, pottery from lettuce wraps to brothy concoctions. Augie’s may be known for its mussels, but Sisters Thai and the Magnolia Dessert shrimp and more, and finally winds down that’s not all that’s available for Restaurant Bar, 503 Montgomery St. with some toffee cake and ice cream. Hope Nelson is the author of “Classic Week. The restaurant’s two-person menu One of the newer kids in North Old Town is Restaurants of Alexandria” and owns the deal offers up one appetizer (which features coming out of the gate strong with its Restau- Taqueria Picoso, 1472 N. Beauregard St. Kitchen Recessionista blog, located at www. the likes of wings, steak and cheese eggrolls, rant Week offer. Their in-person three-course Love tacos? Taqueria Picoso has you cov- kitchenrecessionista.com. Email her any time and pretzels with beer sauce) and two en- menu starts with a choice of four appetizers, ered. The eatery is offering up deals for two at [email protected]. Calendar

AUG. 6-28 ”Together” Art Exhibit. At Del Ray Artisans ary War and Presidency, and at their Gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount beloved Mount Vernon. Enjoy some Vernon Avenue, Alexandria. “Together” is an of the Washingtons’ favorite treats art exhibit (August 6–28, 2021) of works by and delicacies prepared by the Mount Del Ray Artisans’ outstanding volunteers and Vernon Inn Restaurant. Following the board of directors. Celebrate their dedication program, guests are invited to take and enjoy their artwork. Visit https://delray- a self-guided tour of the estate. Call artisans.org/event/together. 703-780-2000 or visit mountvernon. org SATURDAY/AUG. 14 Original Summer Picnic. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. At SATURDAY/AUG. 14 the Original Mount Vernon High School, Floral Design Workshop. 1-2:30 p.m. At 8333 Richmond Hwy, Alexandria. Join SFDC Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Saturday, August 14 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Spring Road, Alexandria. Discover The Alexandria Summer Sidewalk Sale will take place Aug. 14-15 in Old Town and Del Ray. for the original Summer Picnic at Original new ways to arrange summer beauties Mount Vernon High School. There will be or turn blooms into edible garnishes at Green returns to the D.C. region’s Shop Small desti- Green Spring Gardens at 703-642-5173. live music, food trucks, local vendors, and Spring Gardens. On Saturday, Aug. 14, nation for independent boutiques, Alexandria, more! All you need is a blanket or chair and 2021, Green Spring hosts the “Floral Design with the annual Alexandria Summer Sidewalk THURSDAY/AUG. 19 they’ll provide the rest. Visit the website: Workshop: Summer Edition.” Certified floral Sale throughout Old Town and Del Ray. The Summer Garden Tour and Tea to Go. 1-2 p.m. sfdc.org/picnic. Register here: https:// designer Betty Ann Galway will help you cre- event features record participation with more At Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring www.eventbrite.com/e/original-summer-pic- ate a beautiful summer flower arrangement. than 70 Alexandria boutiques stepping out Road, Alexandria. (Adult) Tour the vibrant nic-tickets-162577151637 Learn how to properly care for and handle of their storefronts and offering discounted demonstration gardens with a master garden- flowers, and get some creative new design summer merchandise plus activations on King er docent who will inspire you with dazzling SATURDAY/AUG. 14 ideas. The cost is $39 per person, plus a $30 Street and in Del Ray. Learn more at VisitAl- plant combinations and tales of Green Spring Garden Tour: Green Spring Up and Down. supply fee. exandriaVA.com/SidewalkSale. past and present. Tour only: $12/ Optional 10-11:30 a.m. (Adults) Extension Master tea box: $24. Register online at www.fairfax- Gardener docents lead a special “Grand SATURDAY/AUG. 14 SUNDAY/AUG. 15 county.gov/parks/parktakes with program Tour” of Green Spring! View some upper Outdoor Musical Dinner. 4 p.m. At The Rectory Brush Up Your British. 2-3 p.m. At Green Spring code (code 03T.8AQS) or call Green Spring demonstration gardens, then take the garden on Princess Street, 711 Princess St., Alex- Gardens, Alexandria. Celebrate Britain’s Gardens at 703-642-5173. path less travelled to explore the naturalistic andria. Honor the centennial year of Astor National Afternoon Tea Week by exploring lower garden areas: the Virginia Native Plant Piazzolla with a multi-course dinner of linguistic and cultural differences between AUG. 20-29 Garden, woodland stream valley, and ponds. Argentinian steak and Malbec wine – and the Britain and America. Compare customs and Alexandria Restaurant Week. For 10 days and Tour involves a steep slope with loose gravel. singular sound of the bandoneon in a pro- manners in these two nations “divided by two weekends, more than 70 restaurants in $15 per person. Register online at www. gram featuring the entrancing music of the a common language” - at the tea table and Alexandria will offer a $49 in-person and/ fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes (code 8A0. composer who brought tango to international beyond! A link to the virtual program will or to-go dinner for two during Alexandria I0PR) or call Green Spring Gardens at 703- attention, along with other celebrated tango be emailed up to an hour before the start of Restaurant Week. Nearly 50 of the restaurants 642-5173. composers and original music by Emmanuel the program. Optional afternoon tea boxes will offer solo diners a $25 in-person and/or Trifilio. Cost is $42. Visit the website: https:// prepared by the caterer will be available for to-go dinner for one in addition to serving the SATURDAY/AUG. 14 www.classicalmovements.com/secretgarden- pick up at Green Spring Gardens between 10 $49 dinner for two. The online menu book Tea with Martha Washington. 1 p.m. At Mount concerts a.m. and 1 p.m. on the day of the program. makes it easy to browse selections from doz- Vernon Inn Restaurant, 3200 Mount Vernon Tea boxes include savory finger sandwiches, ens of Alexandria eateries and enjoy special Memorial Hwy., Mount Vernon.Join Martha AUG. 14-15 pastries, scone with cream and jam, and tea menus in-person or from the comfort of your Washington for a cozy tea as she shares Alexandria Summer Sidewalk Sale. Throughout bag. Lecture only: $12/ Optional tea box: own home. View the menu flip-book and view memories of her and the General’s life as a Old Town and Del Ray. One of the longest $24. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty. participating restaurants at www.Alexandri- young married couple, during the Revolution- running seasonal summer shopping events gov/parks/parktakes (code FB8.E4K2) or call aRestaurantWeek.com. 12 v Alexandria Gazette Packet v August 12-18, 2021 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com News Classified WWW.CONNECTIONNEWSPAPERS.COM Invasion To Advertise in This Paper, Call by Monday 11:00 am 703-778-9411

From Page 13 ia Cooperative Extension Fairfax County Office. She said that al- though they had volunteers report bites, itching rash, “We don’t have anyone who has submitted a sam- ple because they [the suspected mites] are microscopic…No one can say for definite that this is what it is … However, as far back as 2004, when we had the 17 year Brood X, there have been reports that these [mites] might tend to brew up a little bit more in popula- tion and nuisance.” While Northern Virginia has a large oak tree population, Bordas said the mites might not just be in oak trees. “I would say not just in oaks, though probably oaks in gen- eral.” If the culprit is verified in the region as the oak tree itch mite, it makes a sci-fi horror story. Invisi- ble, fully mature male and female alien invaders emerge from an ovisac at the end of their mother’s hugely swelling abdomen, then mate. The males, but the fertilized females with 200 to 300 eggs are laser-focused to eat and seek out their prey. They enter their home sight unseen through minute open- ings. The female invaders inject their prey with a potent neurotoxin and saliva mixture capable of para- lyzing victims 166,000 times their size. The saliva liquifies the prey’s tissue, so the females can feed on their fluids, nourishing their progeny to adulthood in one week when they emerge. Dispersed via the wind, they can drop onto hu- mans.

THE OAK LEAF ITCH MITE is a tiny reddish-tan parasite with a shiny exoskeleton and four pairs of legs. It is invisible to the naked eye. Sign up for According to Raymond A. Cloyd, FREE DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION an entomology professor at Kansas to all of our papers State, “The oak leaf itch mite has one of the highest rates of popu- lation increase … Millions can be produced in a very short time.” Cloyd reported the oak leaf itch mite was first detected in the Mid- west in 2004. It was responsible www.connectionnewspapers.com/subscribe for the 2014 and 2017 widespread itching bites. “A single female can produce between 200 and 300 eggs,” according to Cloyd in Oak Leaf Itch Mite. Cloyd said that the oak leaf itch mite is thought to be exclusive to pin oak trees. Although the oak leaf itch mite typically preys on midge eggs from the tiny two-winged flies common- ly called “no-see-ums” that target pin oaks, the mites may not be as specific a feeder as previously

See Invasion, Page 14 www.ConnectionNewspapers.com Alexandria Gazette Packet v August 12-18, 2021 v 13 News Sole Survivor Business By KENNETH B. LOURIE Directory Invasion Suspected It’s been nearly three weeks since “the burning,” and I’m here to say - while sitting WWW.CONNECTIONNEWSPAPERS.COM down with my left foot elevated, that I am From Page 13 approximately 75% the man I used to be pre-July Call 703-549-0004 Prevention and Elimination 17 around 2 pm central standard time. I can now for advertising information walk, mostly on my right foot, but always with thought. Instead of feeding solely on midge There are very few strategies to prevent the help and security of my new best friend: the eggs in the pin oak trees, the mites might oak leaf itch mite bites. Dudzinsky said to walker. I am no longer housebound or bedridden. also be devouring the massive numbers of minimize exposure to oak trees, especially Though I still cannot drive for fear of ripping off ELECTRICAL ELECTRICAL cicada eggs left behind by the region’s 2021 pin oaks. Do not sit under them. If you are the brand new skin which has appeared on the Brood X invasion, according to John Dudz- picking up leaves or fallen flagging branch- balls of my feet (especially the progress on my insky, Community Forester and Society of es from the cicadas [or working near them], right/driving foot), healing from the inside out; I am free however to be a passenger, and load Municipal Arborists Virginia Liaison. wear long rubber gloves, a long-sleeved myself onto the backseat of our SUV and extend The bountiful cicada eggs deposited by shirt, hat, pants, and socks pulled up and my legs across the entire seat to minimize any the female Brood X cicadas over several over pant cuffs. discomfort. The pain is very manageable, but weeks in May and June into slits of healthy Bordas, who works outside in four to five- on occasion I have taken a few of the percocets and now flagging pin oak branches, among hour stretches, understands how hard it is that had been prescribed for pain. The relief was hardly immediate and the pill size was other trees, make easy feeding for the fe- to dress with mite-protection when tem- moderate so I don’t see myself getting addicted male mites to nourish their progeny. peratures soar. She recommended wearing a (percocet is OxyContin). In fact, the size pill I was LANDSCAPING LANDSCAPING Because of the vast, possibly unprecedent- shirt pretreated with DEET at a 30 percent prescribed barely dulled the pain; most of which ed quantities of cicada eggs in Northern Vir- level, no higher, and wearing it over a reg- has subsided anyway. (And when I was in severe ginia, the mites’ seven-day life cycle, and the ular shirt to avoid skin exposure. “I put that pain in Texas, the physician’s assistant prescribed number of offspring produced by each mite, on over a lighter shirt,” Bordas said. She tylenol with codeine. It did nothing. It wasn’t even worth the co-pay. Perhaps a physician’s the oak leaf itch mite population may be ex- added not to spray the skin of older adults assistant, without a doctor present, couldn’t ploding this year. with DEET because their skin is thinner, like- prescribe a narcotic, especially one that has “Of course, oak leaf itch mites don’t fly,” wise for children. addictive qualities. Presumably, it was for my own Dudzinsky said. “The wind will catch them. “Be cognizant of when you come indoors, protection. At that point however, I didn’t need Summer Cleanup... They can even fit through the mesh of immediately take a shower… and wash protection. I needed pain relief.) screens. They’re extremely tiny, 1/125 of an clothes in hot water,” Bordas said. After seeing a physician’s assistant in Galveston, an Emergency Room doctor in inch,” he said. Controlling the mites at their source may Gaithersburg, two Podiatrists in Kensington and “Whatever is happening right now seems be impossible. There is nothing to treat mites my Internal Medicine doctor in Silver Spring, to be the same year as the cicadas,” Day on the trees “because the mites themselves I have been set free-ish. None of these doctors said, “I think it is a case of two and two to- are inside the galls,” according to Bordas. felt the need to see me again. The healing of my gether — make five.” feet has progressed far enough that the threat of infection has passed so I am now on my own, sort of. I (my wife, Dina, actually) am to continue dressing my wounds for one to two weeks (depending on which foot) and use our Obituary Obituary own judgment about when to discontinue the treatment. It appears as if I have survived the ordeal, mostly. Landscape Drainage Landscape Drainage Francois Duret And though there were times at the beginning If all you remember about Francois Duret were the sly, when the pain was excruciating, and times in the disarming smile and the twinkle in his eye, that would middle when the pain was bearable; at the end, be enough. in a week or two, I will be forever grateful that But there was so much more. my condition did not deteriorate due to infection, Duret, who died June 23 in his beloved Old Town Al- blistering or nerve damage. As it happened, “the exandria, Va., also was a proud son of France whose burning” was simply the unintended consequence national pride was always on display. In the saddle of of the damage 11-plus years of chemotherapy has a sleek BMW motorcycle, he was the ‘Mad Frog’, while done to my body, inside and out. Because of the the license plate on a tiny Smart car carried the vanity neuropathy in my feet (thankfully, there isn’t any tag of ‘Frog Two.’ neuropathy in my hands or other extremities), During his half century in Alexandria, Duret, 77, was the I can never, because physically I can’t, walk ultimate host, entrepreneur and civic warrior who was barefoot. And because of that pre-existing adored by a legion of friends and neighbors, from Queen condition, the bottoms of my feet are as soft as and Royal Streets, to France and the United Kingdom, a baby’s behind. With no calluses formed on my where he and his family once lived. Duret was a man of many passions: family, professional feet to protect me, I’m kind of a standing duck out car racing, international sailboat competitions, music, there. I found out the soft way how hard it is for the theater, politics, wine, cigars and great conversation. me to walk across hot pavement. His love of the arts and music, encouraged by his grand- at the racetrack in the sky, my friend.” And the shoeless choice I made was a choice mother, seemed to fill every room, and he shared that Indeed, Duret cherished his family and an ever-expand- I, like millions of others who’ve gone to the passion with his grand-daughter, who he accompanied ing circle of friends who joined him traveling the world, beach, made quite casually. I was simply doing on outings to the Kennedy Center and Cirque de Soleil. often into the perched villages of France and Italy. something - walking barefoot, that came naturally The son of Andre and Lucette Joussain Duret, Francois In his Old Town Alexandria neighborhood, Duret proved and historically, as in I’ve done it a hundred Rene Duret was born Dec. 3, 1943 in France, one of a vocal and formidable advocate for historical preser- times, especially having walked across hot sand. three children. vation. His Queen Street home served as a de-facto Not anymore. As a long-time cancer patient, Duret was always drawn to adventure. As a young man, headquarters for local campaigns to maintain the city’s generally speaking, I’m aware of many of the dos he signed up for duty in a French paratrooper unit. Little rich link to the nation’s founding. and don’ts and what trouble to avoid, but never wonder that he would become a professional race car In that effort, he will be fondly remembered for almost had I considered that my lung/thyroid cancer driver, competing in the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans, single-handedly scuttling a neighbor’s plans to trans- treatment might cause a problem potentially, on one of the world’s oldest motor-sports events; and at form a historic Queen Street townhouse to a glass- Goodwood Motor Circuit in the United Kingdom. His sheathed McMansion. Duret delivered the knockout the soles of my feet if I walked barefoot at the racing skills translated to the open water where he was blow during the Presidents’ Day Parade when he strung beach. I know I’m supposed to avoid the sun (I’ll a crew-member in competitive sailboat events in the a banner across the front of his home, calling attention be the one sitting under a beach umbrella with U.S. and Europe. to the planned blight next-door with a giant, bright red a hat on my head, sunglasses on my face and Even in business, Duret embraced living life on the edge arrow. The bold play surprised more than a few pass- covered head to toe, with towels and a tearshirt), as a globe-trotting oil trader and design consultant for ing city leaders and the Abe Lincoln stand-in, notably but nobody ever advised me that I shouldn’t go car manufacturers. And he once held a stake in a gold out-fitted in the historically appropriate black stove-pipe to the beach. Before “the burning,” I would have mine. His final business venture allowed him to share his hat. thought I was an experienced enough cancer joy for car racing with the public, founding AllSports, a Duret’s booming laugh could be heard for blocks. patient that I knew what situations might be luxe indoor miniature speedway that he operated for 15 Duret was preceded in death by his wife, Kathy Duret, harmful to my health. Apparently not. It seems as years in Northern Virginia. who died in 2016. He is survived by his brothers, Jean if I haven’t quite learned all my lessons, yet. A friend, Will Langhorne, described Duret aptly as a Loup Duret and Michel Duret; daughter, Megan and “beam of positive energy in the world.” grand-daughter, Francesca; and his extended family Kenny Lourie is an Advertising Representative for “Thank you for making the world a better place and whom he adored, particularly his Aunt Mimi with whom The Potomac Almanac & The Connection Newspapers. blessing us with your love,” Langhorne wrote. “See you he spoke at least three times a week.

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