Alexandria Times

Vol. 17, No.8 Alexandria’s only independent hometown newspaper. FEBRUARY 25, 2021 Council approves Heritage redevelopment Controversial project to provide up to provide testimony for and against 195 affordable housing units the project proposal. While many residents BY WILL SCHICK voiced their support for the project, many others opposed the redevelopment, which City Council voted unanimously to ap- will triple the number of total housing units prove the controversial plan to redevelop at the site. Those opposed raised concerns the Heritage at Old Town apartments at a about the impact of increased density on public hearing on Saturday. nearby traffic, the influx of new students The proposal passed after more than six into already crowded schools and an overall hours of public testimony and debate over distaste for the aesthetic and design of the whether the city should approve the plan. new buildings. The redevelopment will span across three “This development does not match what buildings, which will rise to seven stories in is there and what is now a completely love- some places, and feature 750 new units, 195 ly, livable neighborhood,” Yvonne Callahan, of which will be committed affordable. Forty-two members of the public signed SEE HERITAGE | 13

COURTESY PHOTO The sound of silence Audrey P. Davis, director of the Alexandria Black History Museum Single complaint, lengthy music. Starting in permitting process jettison June, Classical Move- classical concert series ments held a series Beyond February BY CODY MELLO-KLEIN of intimate, socially distanced outdoor Audrey Davis shines a light on city’s past at For six months during the pandemic, concerts in the “se- Black History Museum’ music was alive again in Alexandria. And cret garden” behind BY ALLISON HAGEMAN then, suddenly, it wasn't. its historic 18th cen- At a time when concert halls, clubs and tury building at 711 Last summer at the Alexandria vigils for George Floyd, Au- other live music venues had to close their Princess St. drey P. Davis, director of the Alexandria Black History Muse- doors, Classical Movements, an Old Town- Between June and NEETA HELMS um, collected history as it happened. based classical music tour company, found a Davis said she field-collected at vigils across Alexandria, creative solution to the sudden dearth of live SEE MOVEMENTS | 4 including one that occurred in front of the Alexandria Black History Museum and the Charles Houston Recreation Center. INSIDE She wanted to tell Alexandria’s social justice story and capture the historic events occurring following the deaths of Floyd and other Black Americans who had been killed by police officers. Election Council Health & Wellness The George Floyd initiative collected “incredibly powerful” Campbell and Moran join Stormwater utility fee Practice some self-love City Council race. increase approved. post-Valentine's Day. SEE DAVIS | 6 Page 3 Page 12 Page 15 2 |FEBRUARY 25, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES Christine Roland Garner Go take a hike ... seriously: Virginia.org/FavoriteHikes

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In 2012, dria School Board Washington D.C. coupon code member Bill Campbell police arrestedADOPT Mo- ABLE PET OF THEalex2021 WEEK announced he will ran after witnessing be running for City him assault his then Coupon expires BILL CAMPBELL PATRICK MORAN Council in the June 8 girlfriend by slam- Olio Olive 3/22/21 Democratic primary. mer Virginia Congressman ming her head into a Oils & Balsamics www.oliooliveoil.com Campbell has a degree and Alexandria Mayor Jim metal trash can cage outside a in mechanical engineering Moran, also announced his nightclub, according to court 41 S. Broad St. from West Virginia Universi- run for City Council on Face- documents. The same year, Lititz, PA 17543 ty and a graduate certificate book last Saturday. video surfaced allegedly show- (717)627-0088 in paralegal studies from Moran received a bache- ing Moran collaborating in a Georgetown University. In a lor’s degree in political science scheme to commit voter fraud. press release, Campbell said from Yale University and is the Moran and Campbell will that every decision he makes owner of Tactical Land Care, join nine other candidates in will be done “through the a landscape design company the June 8 Democratic pri- lens of equity.” He also said that provides eco-friendly im- mary: new candidates Sarah that he intends to keep a “la- provements to local property Bagley, Abdel Elnoubi, Alyia ser focus” on the issues that owners. He has also served Gaskins, James Lewis, Rich- he believes most impact the two terms as the chair of the ard Kirk McPike and Bill Ros- community which include Alexandria Citizen Corps sello and incumbent Coun- employment, housing, flood- Council and has helped sup- cilors Canek Aguirre, John ing and traffic. port the Alexandria Health Chapman and Amy Jackson. Patrick Moran, son of for- Department’s COVID-19 relief [email protected] ~~ Canine Special Health Needs Care ~ ~ Speak Easy features documentaryExtra 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. filmmaker Robin Hamilton Emmy award winning friends who create detailed cal stories. This puppy will soon undergo an operation to repair journalist and documentary dollhouses to tell the sto- Check out the“pulmonicHe’s latest lost ep- astenosis”, leg, but with gained donations perspective from Alexandrians. on what’s filmmaker Robin Hamilton ry of the city’s segregated isode of Speak Easy and important; be happy each day, and love those joins Speak Easy, the Alex- past. Hamilton also spoke catch up on previousYour five-dollarep- donation adds to Sarah’s Fund and andria Times podcast, this with Times Managing Edi- isodes on Spotify,around Apple you. Flash well~Bathtime knows this credo, for Ben~ and hopes together with contributions of others, ensures that week to talk about her film tor Cody Mello-Klein about Podcasts, Audible andfor the a home 14-month-oldof his own Ben is to living share it up in foster the care, love. but as they say, “Our Alexandria.” her previous films, her film- Times website: www.alex-medical “there’scare nois placethere like whenhome,” and needed. he’s hoping for a good one. Hamilton’s latest film making process, the role of times.com/2020/06/speak- Ben is a young, energetic guy, looking for someone who can keep chronicles two Alexandria memory and nostalgia in easy/ ForFOR MORE iNF oINFORMATION abouthim company alexa ABOUT during walks,SARAH’SNdria’ but once FUND,S he’s adoptable exercised PLEASE a bit, CALL he wants to residents and long-time the film and the value of lo- [email protected] snuggle up with his favorite people. 703-746-4774petS, plea OR VISITSe viUSS ATit www. www.alexandriaanimals.org.ALExANDRIAANIMALS.ORg/DONATE Please visit: [email protected] or call 703.746.4774. t THHANaNKk YyouOU Ladrey residents receive second vaccine THANK YOU The Alexandria Redevel- Alexandria Health Depart- the initial ThedoseThe AlexandriaAlexandriabut have AnimalAnimal Shelter’sShelter’s PetPet of of the the Diann Carlson opment and Housing Au- ment and pharmacists from now decidedWeekWeek to get isis sponsoredsponsoredtheir byby DiannDiann Hicks,Hicks Carlson,finding Weichert Old Town thority provided second dos- VanDorn Pharmacy, ARHA first dose, accordinghomes to the for pets and humans, alike. es of the Moderna COVID-19 administered the shots over release. 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PHOTO/ CLASSICAL MOVEMENTS Britton Riley (left) and Eugena Chang (right) perform in Classical Movements' secret garden.

MOVEMENTS FROM | 1 Helms and her husband and senior vice president Johan van November, Classical Move- Zyl have been wrestling with ments hosted more than 35 the city to get on the Planning concerts featuring top tier Commission and City Council classical musicians from some dockets in the hopes of secur- of the nation’s finest sympho- ing a special use permit. The ny orchestras. That was, until Planning Commission is set a single noise complaint from to vote on the SUP on March a neighbor brought the eyes of 2, with a City Council vote to the city on the secret garden. follow on March 13. “On the 18th of Novem- However, Classical Move- ber, we got a note in our door ments’ interactions with the … that basically told us there city goes back farther than was a complaint and we would just November. have to get a permit – it was Helms said she first con- just a little one-line thing – tacted the city in an attempt or we would be fined,” Neeta to secure a permit in April Helms, Classical Movements’ and May last year after the founder and president, said. entirety of Classical Move- The warning arrived ments’ touring business two days before an Ameri- evaporated. Helms and Van cana-themed Thanksgiving Zyl made repeated attempts concert was scheduled to to call and email the city, take place. Helms immedi- which the city acknowledges ately called the city and got in its staff report to the Plan- started with the permit pro- ning Commission, but were cess, but she said she knew “getting a run around” for the show had to go on. weeks, Helms said. “We decided we would With no response from face the fine if we have to, the city, Helms decided to if we get more complaints, move forward with the con- rather than cancel because certs, she said. people have bought tickets, “We then decided to do these artists have come and these concerts because we practiced, this new work had were zoned commercial,” been written,” Helms said. Helms said. “Outdoors we The city never issued a were safe, we were very qui- fine to Classical Movements, et and when the governor of according to Tony LaColla, Virginia raised the numbers the city’s land use services [of people who could gather] division chief. from 10 to 50, we announced ADVERTISE WITH US Classical Movements held our first concert. It was just two more concerts after the this one day, with a plan to Don’t miss your chance to advertise in the following special sections in the warning and cancelled six do three concerts with all lo- Alexandria Times! Contact us at 703.739.0001 for rates and more information. shows in late 2020 and early cal orchestras from the area.” March 4 March 18 March 25 2021. Kids Weddings Homes Over the last few months, SEE MOVEMENTS | 10 WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM FEBRUARY 25, 2021 | 5 HERE WE GROW AGAIN! We are proud to welcome these Outstanding REALTORS‰ to the Coldwell Banker Realty Alexandria Team! Throughout the past year, these professionals made the decision to join the Number 1 Real Estate company1 in the country to better serve their clients. They have improved their support for their clients by using the safe practices, cutting edge technology and tools Coldwell Banker Realty provides. For your real estate needs throughout the Alexandria and Greater Washington, DC region or the world, contact our knowledgeable team for the ultimate customer service experience.

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“That’s one of the things I love about the museum because we are really making history every day in Alexandria, and we have real history here. We have some incredible stories.” – Audrey P. Davis, director, Alexandria Black History Museum

cording to Davis. taught at Howard University While interning at the and contributed to “The Ne- museum, the staff mentored gro Caravan,” a book, Davis her and trained her in giving said, that is one of the early tours of the collections for anthologies of historic Af- dignitaries, celebrities and rican American literature. the general public. Her great-great-grandfa- “We had full run. We could ther was William Roscoe go into anybody’s office, we Davis, an African Ameri- could watch what the scien- can leader in Elizabeth City tists were doing on the lower County, Virginia during the PHOTO/OFFICE OF HISTORIC ALEXANDRIA level – there were no restric- Civil War. Elizabeth City Exterior of the Alexandria Black History Museum. tions for us,” Davis said. County is now a part of the That love for museums city of Hampton. DAVIS FROM | 1 “That’s one of the things As a child, her parents often has not waned in the years William Roscoe Davis’s I love about the museum be- brought her to museums. since. words are inscribed in the submissions from the com- cause we are really making “I loved museums,” Davis “She obviously does what main reading room at the munity, including pictures, history every day in Alexan- said. “I used to set up muse- she loves. She loves history, Library of Virginia in Rich- artwork, buttons and oth- dria, and we have real history ums in my room and charge she loves being able to share mond: “We want to get wis- er personal reflections on here. We have some incredi- my parents admission to that history with others,” Al- dom. That is all we need. Let events, Davis said. ble stories,” Davis said. come to my museum.” exandria Black History Mu- us get that, and we are made Davis herself is another Her mother, realizing her seum volunteer Kathy Rid- for time and eternity.” powerful influence on Al- Museum love daughter’s love for muse- dick said. Davis’ relatives have also exandria’s history and how Originally from Washing- ums when Davis was about won a Pulitzer Prize, a Gram- residents understand it. Her ton D.C., Davis’ parents were 12, found an internship at Family legacy my and work in art and histo- name has become synony- teachers. Her mother taught the Smithsonian Museum of Museums, history and art ry in academia. mous with the Alexandria for many years in Arlington Natural History. Davis ap- are a family legacy for Davis. City Historian Dan Lee, Black History Museum and Public Schools and her father plied and was accepted into Her grandfather, Arthur who works alongside Davis is known in historical circles taught history in D.C. before the internship for two years, P. Davis, was an African in the Office of Historic Al- throughout Virginia. becoming an administrator. which changed her life, ac- American historian who exandria, said that although Davis has long roots in the IN BUSINESS SINCE 1987 DMV area, her emphasis is much broader. Heating & Air Conditioning “It’s not about her family. 703-683-1996 It’s not about her own per- sonal history. It’s a desire to bring the voice and perspec- tive of African Americans in general to the way that we decide about what to com- Celebrating memorate,” Lee said. From college to muse- Additions and Alterations 40 Years in um director Interiors and Exteriors Call Us Today Davis earned her under- graduate degree and mas- • Kitchens • Baths • Basements - - Alexandria 703 533 2423 ter’s from the University of • Roofs • Windows • Siding for a no obligation discussion about Virginia in art history. While • Handyman HOW WE CAN HELP YOU! at UVA, she had a few intern- Class A Builder ~ License #2705 057273A [email protected] | www.wardsremodeling.com www.rbincorporated.com SEE DAVIS | 8 WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM FEBRUARY 25, 2021 | 7 8 |FEBRUARY 25, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES

DAVIS FROM | 6 “When she presents data, you want to listen because ships and worked at the Na- not only is her presentation tional Gallery doing histori- so sincere and impactful, cal editing. but you also get information After graduate school, Da- that … in my case, [helped] vis worked at The Experimen- me grow and [helped] others tal Gallery, a temporary mu- grow,” Riddick said. seum that was housed in the Smithsonian Institution’s Art Not just Alexandria and Industries Building. Davis is a busy person. One exhibit that stood Her day-to-day is a “mix- out to Davis was the “Eti- ture of everything,” she said, quette of the Undercaste.” As from organizing the city’s a museum staff member, she Black History Month pro- would put museum goers in a gramming to giving speech- morgue drawer, their funeral es and planning renovations would play, they would get at the museum. out of the morgue drawer and “It’s never dull, and it’s then they would go through always something new ... a maze where they went from which is why I love it because being a person who was mid- you're also thinking about dle class to a person who was future exhibits,” Davis said. homeless. PHOTO/ MISHA ENRIQUEZ, VISIT ALEXANDRIA Her impact goes beyond “We had lines around the A woman looks at part of an exhibit inside the Alexandria Black History Museum. Alexandria to the state of block daily to get into the Virginia, according to Lee. show, and it was again a real- the job, which was for a part- whose historical miniatures Alexandria’s history than be- When he applied for a grant ly interesting experience to be time curator, and was hired have been featured there, fore they came. at the Virginia Humanities a part of it and increased my in 1993. Davis has worked said she met Davis at the St. “It’s a small place, but she’s Council, they asked how love for museums,” Davis said. at the museum since then, Joseph’s Catholic Church made it so that people from much support he was getting After that experience, she eventually becoming acting bazaar. The church is a few anywhere can come in and from Davis, which he said is briefly worked as a tour guide director in 2012 when pre- blocks away from the mu- take something away about a “reflection of how much at Mount Vernon. While vious director Louis Hicks seum and Davis stopped to Alexandria or Black history weight she carries through- there, she met Gladys Quan- retired. Davis was appoint- shop and chat with her. or … whatever exhibit she has out the state.” der Tancil, Mount Vernon’s ed as the museum’s director Frazier, a native Alexan- going on,” Frazier said. “Her work is not just con- first African American wom- in 2015. drian, remembers the mu- The museum has been fined to one museum or even an tour guide, and a board seum’s building as a library closed for in-person visits one city,” Lee said. member of the Alexandria At the museum when she was growing up. during the COVID-19 pan- “Alexandria needs that Black History Museum. Sharon Frazier, who has Frazier said Davis ensures demic, but Davis said virtual museum and Audrey goes all Tancil told her there was volunteered at the Alexan- that visitors have a positive programs have been offered. around, speaks to different a position opening up at the dria Black History Museum experience and leave know- Lee said the museum has people, groups. It’s like she museum. Davis applied for for more than 16 years and ing at least a bit more about had to change its program- doesn’t turn people down,” ming and exhibits rapidly to Frazier said. respond to current events. Davis said she wants to Handyman Services “She has been able to encourage people to learn Division of Maid Services, Inc. adapt and to find a way to about and honor Black his- • Bathrooms • Painting represent both her museum tory and attend the Alexan- • Plumbing • Electrical and the city ... with grace and dria Black History Museum • Carpentry • Drywall Repair diplomacy,” Lee said. beyond Black History Month. • Kitchen • Power Washing Riddick said she has The museum, like Davis, learned many things while is there all year, working for Maid Services Inc. volunteering and watching Alexandria and Black history. the museum's virtual events. “I really am dedicated • Weekly • Apartments • Bi-Weekly • Condominiums She said she learned about to making sure we’re try- • Monthly • Townhouses the lynchings that occurred ing to tell everyone’s story • One Time • Single Homes in Alexandria from the mu- here in Alexandria,” Davis seum and added that it im- said. “There’re so many ter- Office: pacted her “understanding of rific people and so many in- 703-560-6243 where we are” and how this is teresting events that have “homegrown.” occurred, and I just look Cell and Text: Riddick said Davis also forward to continuing to in- 703 629-9977 Bruce Elton spurs growth by being an ex- terpret that history.” Owner maidservicesinc.com cellent presenter. [email protected] WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM FEBRUARY 25, 2021 | 9

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MOVEMENTS FROM | 4 little shocking for me because cil can amend, limits Clas- I have been playing for a live sical Movements to holding The initial day of concerts audience since I was 5, so to concerts on Friday and Sat- of June 20 was intended as a have everything cancelled, urday. More concerning for single event, a momentary it was devastating,” Eugena Helms, the SUP prohibits balm for those who could not Chang, a cellist in the Nation- Classical Movements from abide the deafening silence al Symphony Orchestra, said. organizing live outdoor en- of a world without live mu- When Chang performed in tertainment. sic, Helms said. The concert’s Sounds of Hope in Harmony “They could do outdoor success and safety for the in June 2020, it was the first events but have music in the audience and musicians ul- time she had taken the stage form of background music, timately led Classical Move- in months. Although the so one solo player, acoustic ments to expand the concept crowd of about 40 people and only, to limit the noise,” La- into a series called Sounds of her fellow musicians were so- Colla said. Hope and Harmony. cially distanced and masked, Helms said she is still

“I think she was a lifeline Chang said she still felt the PHOTO/ CLASSICAL MOVEMENTS hopeful the city will approve to a lot of people who enjoy connection that can only be Audience members are required to wear masks and are spaced at an SUP that allows Classical classical music and for whom forged during a collective ex- least 6 feet apart. Movements to hold outdoor it’s such an important part perience like a live concert. concerts as it has been doing of their life,” Carolyn Full- “We were all 6 feet apart, softer than the airplanes that tional obstacles that Helms since June. If the SUP is ap- er, a member of the Alexan- but actually in a way it was fly overhead, way softer than and her small team would proved on March 13, Helms dria Symphony Orchestra more intimate … because we the cars and the motorcycles have to overcome to secure a already has a March 15 con- board, said. “I think also, in had to listen more and look at and all the traffic that moves noise permit.” cert scheduled. this particular time when so each other to make that con- around us,” Helms said. “They would have to apply The Sounds of Hope and many people were facing se- nection,” Chang said. Even more surprising was for each individual concert. It Harmony series is not about vere limitations on what they In addition to social dis- when police officers arrived is kind of involved,” LaColla making money, Helms said. could do and the stresses of tancing and mask wearing, at the secret garden during said. “ … It involves pretty Priced at $40 per ticket, al- COVID and the uncertainty, Classical Movements took the Thanksgiving concert. much going door to door of most the entirety of the this was really a wonderful the temperature of every au- “The police said, ‘Well, everyone in the surrounding revenue gained from these present to the community.” dience member before they they say you don’t have a area to get their approval.” 40-person concerts goes to- Fuller attended six con- entered the venue and audi- permit, but I don’t want to Helms and her husband ward paying for musicians, certs in the series, including ence members were mostly know whether you have a canvassed the neighborhood marketing and cleaning and the children’s Halloween con- not allowed to leave their permit. There’s no crime be- to secure support but had sanitizing supplies. cert, because she “wanted to seat during the hour-long ing committed here. We’ve trouble getting signatures The concerts are meant to see what they would do.” performances. got a lot of other things to from nearby commercial benefit audiences and musi- The concerts were nota- From the summer until do,’” Helms said. property owners during the cians, according to Helms. bly some of the first live clas- fall, Classical Movements put Helms claims that the pandemic. “In my book, it’s the worst sical music concerts to occur on a variety of concerts rang- same neighbor who filed the The city gave partial ap- time for music and the arts in the country during the ing from chamber music and initial noise complaint called proval to the SUP in advance to be silenced in this fashion, pandemic. opera to gospel and spiritu- the police. There have been no of the Planning Commission not only for the artists but “Alexandria was a little als. As far as Helms knew, the more complaints since then. and City Council decisions in for the public,” Helms said. on the forefront of the Amer- neighbors enjoyed the per- The past few months, an attempt to provide Clas- Many people who have at- ican response to actively formances. Nearby residents Helms said she has been con- sical Movements with some tended Classical Movements’ finding ways to continue to would attend the concerts reg- sumed with navigating the flexibility. Classical Move- concerts over the past six make music happen,” James ularly. Even the neighboring permit process. Batted back ments can currently hold lim- months said they had been Ross, music director for the Sunrise Senior Living facility and forth like a ping pong ited indoor concerts, which moved by the experience. ASO, said. asked about putting a gate in ball between the Department Helms said puts her business Sheltered within the walls of Ross, who rented out and the fence that separated the of Transportation and Envi- in an impossible situation. the secret garden, musicians conducted several shows in two properties so elderly resi- ronmental Services’ Office of “During COVID, it’s su- and audiences were able to the secret garden as part of the dents could attend or listen to Environmental Quality and premely irresponsible. … The spend an hour away from the ASO, said the concerts were the music more clearly. the Department of Planning reason every concert hall is stress and cabin fever of the vital for musicians in the area. The noise complaint and and Zoning, Helms said that closed is because of the dan- pandemic. “Most of the people that ensuing warning from the city she has been “stuck between gers to the audience and per- “Those first experiences performed, they’re not lying came as a surprise to Helms, a lot of bureaucracy.” formers to be in an enclosed of having live people in front when they say that this was who said she remains ada- The city has attempted space with singers or per- of you playing and creating the only live performance mant that unamplified classi- to be flexible, LaColla said. formers, wind instruments something out of the moment they were able to do in these cal music does not exceed the City staff recommended that and brass instruments,” and particularly in that beau- last months,” Ross said. city’s noise ordinance. Classical Movements ap- Helms said. tiful garden with air around When the pandemic hit and “There is a noise ordi- ply for a noise permit in the City staff’s full proposal is you and plants, it was totally live music venues closed, many nance in the city – I totally meantime, which would al- no less problematic, accord- moving,” Ross said. “It re- classical musicians struggled respect it – but our musicians low the company to hold out- ing to Helms. The proposed minded all of us of what mu- to find opportunities. are softer than the birds that door concerts. SUP, which the Planning sic actually does or can do.” “It was sad, and it was a chirp along with us, way However, there are addi- Commission and City Coun- [email protected] WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM FEBRUARY 25, 2021 | 11

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Capital Caring Health is one of the oldest and largest providers of advanced illness, elder health, home and hospice care in the country, caring for more than 2,000 patients per day in Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. 12 |FEBRUARY 25, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES Council approves stormwater fee increase Residents push city neighborhoods. Previously, to specify how fund- the city has used the storm- ing will be used water fee to fund projects in- “Given the size of the existing BY WILL SCHICK tended to control water qual- infrastructure, we have to make ity and not flooding. the capital investments in this to City council unanimous- Speakers at the public ly passed an ordinance dou- hearing mostly live in Del increase the size of the pipes and the bling the stormwater utility Ray, an area that has expe- detention facilities to actually make fee from $140 to $280 during rienced repeated flooding some of those improvements.” Saturday’s public hearing. in recent years. They called The increased fee will upon the city to take more – Yon Lambert, add $155 million into the pre-emptive action to pre- director, Department of Transportation city’s coffers over the next vent severe flooding. They and Environmental Services 10 years and will help fund also asked that council direct an ambitious new flood mit- the city to conduct more lo- igation action plan, accord- calized projects, or spot im- called on City Council to pro- nation of human waste and about the trauma of surviving ing to city staff. The plan in- provement projects, during vide immediate assistance like rotting food.” the multiple storms that rav- cludes various capacity and extreme weather events. for those who live on his The flooding, Scates said, aged her neighborhood last spot improvement projects Daniel Alderman, a resi- street. Alderman also said he has led her to live in a “con- year. Engel said the storms in meant to overhaul Alexan- dent of Hume Avenue in Del still worries about losing his stant state of fear because July and September caused her dria’s crumbling stormwater Ray, said he lives in a perpet- car to the rain. whenever it rains, you don’t family to spend tens of thou- infrastructure. ual state of dread over what Allison Scates, also a know.” She added that she sands of dollars on water dam- Although residents have the next storm could do. Hume Avenue resident, said was particularly concerned age mitigation – costs, she been calling on the city to “On the night of July 23, her home flooded twice last about what may happen this said, that were not covered by take action and address the 2020, I parked my Honda Ac- year: once in July and again summer. homeowner’s insurance. stormwater system after cord on the street in front in September. Councilor Canek Aguirre “In addition to the costs of a slew of intense flooding of my home and lost it that “When it flooded in Sep- then asked Yon Lambert, di- these repairs, we spent upward events over the past two evening in the rainwater,” tember, sewer water came in rector of the Department of of $10,000 to rent an Airbnb years, several residents said Alderman said. through the drain, as well Transportation and Environ- out of state for the four of us to they believed enlarging the Alderman said he strong- as water from the alley. It mental Services, if he could live in while [restoration] work city’s budget was not enough ly supported increasing the was so bad,” Scates said, “It elaborate on what the city was in progress,” Engel said. to curb flooding in their stormwater utility fee and smelled like it was a combi- could do to mitigate flooding Engel added that the in neighborhoods that are stress of overseeing repairs known to be flood prone. to their home while caring “Do we have staff that for two children without can be dispatched to mon- childcare and managing a itor some of these hotspots full-time job was incredibly that we know are going to stressful. She also said the potentially get activated city’s slow approach to recti- during a flash flood? And fying the stormwater issues what would they potentially has caused her family to seri- do?” Aguirre asked. ously consider relocating. “The answer is that there “The timeline for this plan is very little we can do,” Lam- has also put into question our bert responded. desire to stay in Alexandria, Lambert explained that and especially, Del Ray, which the current infrastructure is where we hoped to raise our cannot process excess storm- children,” Engel said. water and that large-scale Engel also said that she improvements are necessary. “did not approve an increase “Given the size of the in stormwater fees in princi- existing infrastructure, we ple, but I am concerned about have to make the capital in- the schedule, both for repairs vestments in this to increase affecting Hume and all across the size of the pipes and the Del Ray.” retention facilities to actu- Given Hume Avenue res- ally make some of those im- idents’ concerns about the provements,” Lambert said. need for immediate stormwa- Natalie Engel, another Hume Avenue resident, spoke SEE STORMWATER | 14 WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM FEBRUARY 25, 2021 | 13

HERITAGE FROM | 1 of massive fires in such build- the Alexandria Housing Af- ings all over the country,” fordability Advisory Com- vice president of the Old Town Raymond said. mittee and a volunteer coun- Civic Association, said at the In response, City Manager selor for the Christ Episcopal virtual hearing. Mark Jinks said that the project Church financial ministry, Chris Morell, a resident proposal was in line with the said that while she preferred who lives on South Columbia state’s fire safety guidelines. a more traditional design for Street, said that while he sup- He also said that “probably the project, “what we came to ported improving affordable almost all multifamily build- realize with our project is that housing in the area, he did ings being built in the last five we’re building for the current not support this particular years in Alexandria are of this COURTESY IMAGE and future generations, not development. type of construction.” The Heritage redevelopment will feature 750 new units, 195 of for ourselves.” “Projects driven by exces- While a number of resi- which will be affordable. The concerns around the sive monetary gain, that use dents spoke out in opposition redevelopment proposal were the cheapest construction to the project, many others verse and equitable,” Ali said. led to … gentrification of the not limited to members of and high-density architec- voiced support for it, includ- Kevin Harris, the president area and the displacement of the public. Councilor Canek ture that dominate their sur- ing some who live in the cur- of the Alexandria Redevelop- our community,” Harris said. Aguirre said he was worried roundings to the detriment rent Heritage complex. ment and Housing Authority Harris added that he lives about how the increased den- of Alexandria … must be re- Marta Ali, a current Her- Resident Association, argued in affordable housing and be- sity brought on by the proj- strained,” Morell said. itage resident, said that the that the redevelopment’s af- lieves that neighbors should ect would impact access to Martha Raymond, another current proposal advanced the fordable housing could pro- welcome people from all eco- schooling in the area. resident, said she was con- current citywide goal of creat- vide residents who have been nomic walks of life. “At this point, we’re still cerned about the materials ing more affordable living op- pushed out of Old Town, par- “I’m a small business own- in dialogue with the school being used to construct the portunities for residents. ticularly minority residents, er, a father of three wonderful system about accommoda- building. “I believe the objectives with a new housing opportu- girls, a caring husband, a coach tion strategies,” Karl Moritz, “My comment has to do of the South Patrick Housing nity in the neighborhood. and a minister in my church. director of the Department of with the proposed construc- Affordability Strategy and “In Old Town, in particu- The people who live in afford- Planning and Zoning, said in tion type: multi-story wood the Heritage redevelopment lar, new developments have able housing are not parasites response. “We have not land- over a concrete base or podi- plan can help toward creating pushed longtime residents, to our community. We are our ed on one or even formalized um. I’m commenting because cost-saving and development many of whom were people of community,” Harris said. there are too many [incidents] projects that are forever di- color, out of the city. This has Betsy Faga, a member of SEE HERITAGE | 14

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HERITAGE FROM | 13 “A deferral is not acceptable STORMWATER FROM | 12 amended. It specifically de- mitigation projects. to us,” Puskar said. “We have scribes what the fee could be Residents have also ex- what the options are that been working on this project ter repairs, Mayor Justin Wil- used for. And it’s this section pressed concern about how we’re looking at.” for over a year. We have made son pushed Lambert to speci- that we want amended to al- the city determined its pre- “It would behoove us to all the changes that we can fy when residents in that area leviate any confusion.” cise financial need for a 100% have some type of plan with- make to the height, the mass, could expect work to begin in Only six members of the increase in the fee and have in the next year or two be- the scale of this project.” their neighborhood. public provided live com- called for more transparency cause if you build it, they will Noting the city’s current Lambert said the city had ments about the stormwater and accountability on where come,” Aguirre said. issues with traffic in specific not scheduled work to begin fee, discussion of which came the money will be spent. Initially, Councilor Amy areas, Councilor John Chap- on Hume Avenue until fiscal at the end of a public hear- Many community mem- Jackson also expressed strong man said it was prudent to be year 2022, which starts in ing that lasted more than 11 bers, including include those reservations about project. aware of the possible impacts July of next year. hours and included six hours participating in the virtual “You have a bigger foot- the development could have According to the staff of discussion about another public hearing, also expressed print showing that we now on area traffic in the future. presentation, the timeline controversial topic, redevel- dissatisfaction with the slow have stormwater drainage “I think this development for completing projects once opment of the Heritage in timeline for the planned proj- issues,” Jackson said. “We’re plan highlights another rea- they are funded ranges from Old Town. None of the resi- ect improvements. going to have a lot of prob- son why I think we need to, three to five years. dents who spoke at the meet- After the closing of pub- lems concerning traffic. … I as a city, think about how Sheriff Dana Lawhorne ing were explicitly against lic comments, Councilor Mo don’t know how you’re going we’re going to attack those said that while he support- raising the stormwater fee. Seifeldein made a motion, to put an extra 400 units on pain points and do it kind of ed increasing the stormwa- However, many residents seconded by Vice Mayor this property … and have it all deliberately, systematically, ter fee to help fund projects of the Alexandria commu- Elizabeth Bennett-Parker, to go well.” because I think that’s going meant to curb flooding, he nity continue to oppose the pass the ordinance. The ordi- Jackson asked council and to be beneficial for our resi- did not believe the language fee for a variety of reasons. nance passed 7-0. staff whether it was possible dents,” Chapman said. of the ordinance made this In letters written to the Al- Council also directed staff to defer voting on the propos- After more than six hours purpose clear. exandria Times, community to draft an amendment to the al until they could better re- of discussion, Aguirre put “We have no problems members have said they be- ordinance that includes more solve some of these concerns. forward a motion to approve paying the new fee as long lieved the city would squan- deliberate language to ex- Ultimately, the developer’s the proposal, seconded by as there are guarantees that der the excess funding on plain how the fee would help attorney, Cathy Puskar, said Councilor Del Pepper. The it goes to fix the flooding,” paying staff salaries instead specifically fund projects deferring the project was not motion passed 7-0. Lawhorn said. “… Section of applying the funds to meant to curb flooding. an option for the developer. [email protected] 56-236, that needs to be work on much-needed flood [email protected]

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To you, FILE IMAGE Take time to practice self-love and self-care even when it’s not from you Valentine's Day.

Learning the benefits do your own detective work of self-love can help to find some optimal ways to you year-round love yourself and understand “Love can be empowered through BY CATHY CANFIELD why self-love is such an im- a practice of daily self-love, taking portant practice. charge of how love is expressed to Another Valentine’s Day When imagining love, we has come and gone, and the most often think of others ourselves not just on Valentine’s Day heart-shaped chocolates are loving us and how they ex- but the other 364 days of the year.” marked down to 75% off. Like press their love – whether it’s the 75%-off aisle, it can be friends, family or a romantic depressing to have this hol- partner. So, on Valentine’s how love is expressed to our- does, show up for you in your CATHY iday pass as a reminder that Day, if we don’t feel we have selves not just on Valentine’s worst moments or know how CANFIELD love, in your ideal version, this love in our life, we feel Day but the other 364 days to make you laugh. It could did not show itself. I chal- like we’re in a space of deficit of the year. This is where it be as simple as a warm hug find ways that you can trans- lenge you to empower your or loneliness. I used to wear can feel intangible – hang and saying, “I love you.” You late feeling love from others Valentine’s Day – and more black on Valentine’s Day, in there. First, I want you to may have other ways that into love for yourself. importantly, your daily ex- even if I had a “special some- imagine what this other per- come to mind. The first chal- Let me give you an ex- perience – of love by demon- one,” because I felt it was un- son would do to show their lenge is to write these down. ample: One of your favorite strating love for yourself. fair to highlight love on a day love to you. Perhaps take it a step further ways to be loved is sponta- We hear talk of self-love when not everyone had it. Are they a good listen- and write down what your neously receiving flowers. and self-care, but what is it, Love can be empowered er? Do they remember your ideal love looks and feels like. Here’s a crazy idea: Buy actually? I’m going to give through a practice of daily favorite things? Maybe they The next step is to get you some clues so you can self-love, taking charge of get you in a way no one else creative. Take your list and SEE SELF-LOVE | 16 16 |FEBRUARY 25, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES HEALTH & WELLNESS

&SELF-LOVE FROM | 15 You might say to your- decided to buy myself flow- self, “It’s dumb to waste ers. And as amazing as that yourself flowers, sponta- money buying myself flow- was, my only regret is that I neously. If you can’t fathom ers.” Does this mean, “I’m didn’t claim it. When a rude this or feel like it’s not de- not worth flowers? Even middle-schooler yelled out, Heather Jenkins served or silly, let’s explore ones from the grocery store? “She probably bought them National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach that feeling together. What I’m not worth having joy?” for herself,” I was complete- comes to mind? Is there a Or, “This doesn’t mean any- ly embarrassed and ran. If I Contact Calming Connection & Wellness physical or emotional feel- thing because I bought them could travel back in time, I to schedule an appointment. ing that comes with this for myself.” would go back and proudly idea? A belief or thought This reminds me of a story declare that “I love myself [email protected] about yourself? If not, con- from middle school. An orga- and yes I bought myself www.calmingconnectwell.com gratulations, buy yourself nization at school was selling flowers!” @calmingconnectionwellness flowers. carnations for a fundraiser So try it. Buy yourself the 858.395.1001 If so, congratulations around Valentine’s Day. The flowers. For no reason. Any anyways because this be- color of the flower indicated day of the year. Maybe not gins the true process of lov- a message, red for love, pink carnations though – you de- ing yourself. Celebrate and for friendship, etc. serve better than that. Start buy yourself flowers. Just The popular kids, of with the most important re- be curious about and notice course, received bouquets lationship: to you, from you. what may come up for you. from admirers. Some stu- Take just a small moment, dents received a few from The writer is director of a few breaths, to observe friends. Some got none at Counseling of Alexandria, a Did you know eating the your response to this idea. all. I was typically in the small counseling practice that right Indian foods has many Perhaps write some of those “no flowers received” cate- has served the Alexandria health benefits? thoughts down. gory. No big deal. One year I community since 2011. Simply the tastiest Indian cuisine!

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BLACK HISTORY siblings fought to In the spring of 1848, after MUSEUM escape slavery hearing they might soon be BY GAYLE CONVERSE auctioned, the sisters decid- Our thanks to an AND PAT MILLER ed to make a run for freedom Alexandria woman who aboard the schooner Pearl. helps preserve our city’s Try to imagine being cap- The small ship was spot- history every day and tured from an overloaded ted near the mouth of the who graciously provided boat on open water and sold Potomac as it tried to reach some of this information to a notorious Alexandria northern waters and liberty regarding the Edmonson slave trader. For two young for its 77 passengers. Follow- sisters: Audrey Davis, sisters, whose memory is ing their capture, the sisters director of the Alexandria honored in Alexandria, April were sold to Joseph Bruin, Black History Museum. 1848 marked the start of a whose slave pen at 1707 Duke seven month-long period of St. was part of the notorious For additional information fear, abuse and uncertainty. Bruin & Hill complex. Bruin on Alexandria’s Black History The stage had been set was eventually arrested, and COURTESY PHOTO Museum and city-wide in the two decades preced- his assets were comman- A memorial for the Edmonson sisters at 1701 Duke St. activities celebrating Black ing the American Civil War, deered by federal soldiers. History Month 2021, please when northern Virginia’s soil After weeks of imprison- were freed by November 1848 The same year the Ed- visit: visitalexandriava.com – depleted from a century of ment in Alexandria, Mary and journeyed north. monson sisters were cap- The Museum is located tobacco – caused the demand and Emily were sent to New While students at the New tured and freed, a courageous in the original segregated for enslaved labor to decline. Orleans for potential sale to a York Central College in Cor- woman who had belonged to library for Alexandria's Plantation owners began brothel. Due to a Yellow Fe- tland, New York, they began George Washington’s house- African American to sell field hands and house ver outbreak, the girls were their abolitionist work when hold at Mount Vernon died residents at 902 Wythe servants to the Deep South, eventually returned to the they joined Frederick Doug- as a fugitive – separated at a St., Alexandria, 22314 Tel. and Alexandria became one Bruin Jail, where they worked lass in publicly denouncing young age from her sister. (703) 746-4356 Alexandria of the most infamous trail- as laundresses. the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850. Fifty years earlier, Ona Black History Museum blazers in the slave trade. Following local efforts to The Edmonson sisters’ Judge Staines had escaped | Alexandria, 22314 free his daughters, Paul Ed- story became one of the in- slavery when she fled visitalexandriava.com The Edmonson sisters monson traveled to New York spirations for Harriet Beech- then-President Washing- Fifteen-year-old Mary Ed- City, where the Rev. Henry er Stowe’s, “A Key to Uncle ton’s Philadelphia house. stress and became Martha monson, 13-year-old Emily Ward Beecher, brother of nov- Tom’s Cabin.” The child of a white father Dandridge Custis Washing- Edmonson and their 12 sib- elist Harriet Beecher Stowe, A statue abutting the for- and Black mother, Ona Judge ton’s personal maid. Ona and lings had been born into slav- helped raise $2,250 to pur- mer jail building honors the was born at Mount Vernon her younger sister, Delphy, ery in Montgomery County, chase the Edmonson sisters Edmonson sisters. around 1774. At age 10, she Maryland to a free Black fa- from Bruin. 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817 S. WASHINGTON ST. | ALEXANDRIA, 23314 FILE PHOTO Renovating your home to be brighter and uncluttered can help pay off on the market. The “right time” for home improvement Small and large renova- personal goals. Even if the yield a higher sales price with tion projects can help timing seems counter to the fewer concessions. This is find a buyer prevailing market trends, it BY VICI BOGUESS, CLAY can indeed be the “right time” BURKE AND SISSY ZIM- and the transaction can still MERMAN deliver excellent results. Once the decision to sell Like most realtors, we are is made, the next very im- frequently asked some ver- portant question is, “What Thinking of sprucing up your home’s sion of: “Is now a good time do I need to do before it goes for me to sell my house/rent- on the market?” interior this year? al property/mother's condo?” Despite any market condi- Call us now for a FREE estimate, and take or “Will it be worth more tions, it is critical to present THE BURKE BOGUESS 10% off if the work is performed when X happens?” More and the property at its best, to the ZIMMERMAN GROUP between January and March 2021. more, however, we are asked widest pool of buyers. For that important, even in the newly about proposed improve- reason, we welcome any and robust, suburban neighbor- ments: “How much will it all questions about design hoods, but it is essential in be worth if I make this up- choices and improvements the previously hotter market 703-684-7702 grade?” in the works. The beauty of of urban condos. Where sell- In recent years, our mar- some “improvements” is not ers are currently competing techpainting.com ketplace has seen outside shared by all prospective pur- with higher inventory num- influences weigh more than chasers. A good agent and a bers and a smaller pool of usual, between the arrival smart seller can work togeth- buyers, superior conditions of Amazon's HQ2, Virginia er to see that the investment and presentation can really Tech’s Innovation Campus, of time, energy and upgrade pay off. a strong economy and a most dollars pay off. Sometimes the prepara- unwelcome global pandemic. The value added can be tion “to do” list can be man- We have found that it is measured in many ways. A aged in a week or two. More always best when our clients high level of buyer interest often, it takes three to four make their decisions based and competition and shorter on their overall priorities and days on market almost always SEE IMPROVEMENT | 19 WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM FEBRUARY 25, 2021 | 19 HOMES IMPROVEMENT FROM | 18 in the photos. Even purchas- elects to go the more direct ers with no culinary inter- route. weeks to be show ready. Even ests steer clear of the listings Occasionally, the like- if selling is not immediate, it with outdated kitchens. ly use of the property has never hurts to get a head start The same is true of bath- changed. A property with a on editing cabinets, closets, rooms and dressing areas. large lot may be sold to the attics and basements. There Almost every homeowner can purchaser planning a full- is beauty in uncluttered and appreciate and long for a beau- scale renovation. There are airy spaces. The ultimate goal tiful, functional bath to start times when the best plan is to of being market ready will or end the day. Whether it is market a clean, vacant prop- guide and motivate the na- a modest update of hardware erty in as-is condition and ture of a client’s improvement and fixtures or a full renova- price it to encourage compe- projects. Generally speaking, tion, our team recommends tition from a different group adding fresh, neutral paint simple finishes and clean FILE PHOTO of buyers seeking to make throughout is the quickest lines. Pre-market preparation Geneally, a fresh coat of paint and refinishing the floors are the their own improvements. and least expensive way to is not the time to make a bold quickest way to refresh the space. “One size fits all” is not refresh the space, along with design statement. our approach to real estate. replacing worn carpets and Experience proves that that a system or appliance widely effective pieces of ad- In the end, this year has con- refinishing floors. smart buyers recognize and is below par, consider mak- vice do not serve every client. firmed our belief that almost Renovated kitchens and value quality improvements ing the repair or replacement Circumstances do not always any time can be the right bathrooms continue to be key and well-maintained sys- before there are additional allow or warrant the signifi- time. With good communica- to attracting buyers. From tems. Purchasers and their consequences. Also consider cant financial investment to tion, a shared understanding first-hand experience, we agents will swoon over the another valuable lesson of prepare the property. There of goals and a well thought know prospective purchasers words “recently replaced roof 2020: Do not expect a quick are instances when a senior out plan, a seller and their gravitate to properties with and water heater.” If you are delivery of new appliances. client or long-distance own- resourceful agent can find updated kitchens and baths planning ahead and know Of course, even these er considers the options and success. HOME OF THE WEEKDoes your home’s exterior need some post-winter TLC? Call us today for a FREE estimate. We are scheduling summer jobs now! Easy one-level living in703 Old-684 Town-7702 penthouse AT A GLANCE Run in April and May 2020 Location: 621 N. 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Run in Sept, Oct, Nov, and Dec 2020 20 |FEBRUARY 25, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES CALENDAR ACW sion and support. the extremist insanity in 1793 Paris. ACW FROM | 17 unsuccessfully for three FEBRUARY 25 Time: 6 to 8 p.m. This grand and dream-filled comedy Location: Virtual is about violence and legacy, art and years to have Ona returned SIMPLICITY AT HOME: Information: www.delraypsych.com/ activism, feminism and terrorism, actually belonged to the Cus- to his wife’s service. Ona THOUGHTFUL LIVING WITH events compatriots and chosen sisters and tis estate. lived the rest of her life in YUMIKO SEKINE Get to know how people actually go about chang- Yumiko Sekine, founder of Fog Linen VOICES OF WOODLAWN: A ing the world. Shows run from Feb. When Washington became New Hampshire, but the fed- Work, as she discusses her new RECKONING BY FOUR POETS 27 to March 20. the first U.S. president, Ona’s eral Fugitive Slave Act forced book, “Simplicity at Home: Japanese OF AMERICA’S SLAVE-HOLD- Time: Varies sister Delphy stayed behind at her to live as a fugitive. She Rituals, Recipes and Arrangements ING PAST In Voices of Woodlawn, Location: Little Theatre of Alexan- for Thoughtful Living,” with Thread- four poets give voice to the mar- dria, 600 Wolfe St. Mount Vernon while Ona was married sailor Jack Staines in leaf. Sekine, founder of beloved ginalized lives of the enslaved at Information: www.thelittletheatre. Japanese lifestyle brand Fog Linen brought to the country’s new 1797 and had three children, Woodlawn, a Fairfax, Virginia former com Work, provides a guide to cultivating plantation that is now a historic site. capital cities of New York and one of them named Nancy a beautiful, joyful home throughout Maryland poets Diane Wilbon Parks, later, Philadelphia. The Penn- after the ship that ferried her the year. Over Zoom, viewers will MARCH 5 Patrick Washington, Sylvia Dianne sylvania city became Ona’s to relative safety. meet Sekine, learn about her inspira- “Ladi Di” Beverly and Hiram Larew tion for the book and Fog Linen Work “GIVE ME SHELTER” ART EX- first exposure to free Blacks Despite never securing confront the sadness, anger, injus- HIBIT Shelters are often structures, and discuss simple rituals and tech- tice and confusion of such a past yet sometimes they are just a state and Quaker abolitionists. Ona’s return, the Custis fam- niques rooted in Japanese traditions and its haunting legacy. They are of where one is. For many it is a way for decorating, organizing, preparing joined by poet and harmonica player, One May evening in 1796, ily retained many enslaved to connect to their dwellings, and food and more. Cliff Bernier, in a powerful program as the Washingtons sat at din- servants, including Ona’s for others it merely means finding Time: 7 to 8 p.m. of witness. ner, Ona quietly slipped away sister Delphy, who was inher- Location: Virtual Time: Noon to 1 p.m. refuge. Some people even choose to shelter from the facts of the Information: www.hellothreadleaf. Location: 9000 Richmond Highway and boarded the “Nancy,” ited by the ill-tempered Eliza COVID-19 virus and its spread. The com Information: www.woodlawnpope- which eventually carried her to Parke Custis Law. current crisis has nearly 40 million leighey.org/voices-of-woodlawn Portsmouth, New Hampshire. ANXIETY AND STRESS MAN- American renters at risk of home- AGEMENT WORKSHOP Join FEBRUARY 27 lessness. A building, box, bench, According to the Washing- The writers are founders of Del Ray Psych and Wellness in this grate, tent, car are all places where ton Library at Mount Vernon, Alexandria Celebrates Women, humans shelter. Come see how local small group workshop and learn how SIMPLICITY AT HOME: “THE Ona stated that she wanted a nonprofit that is commemo- to create a sense of balance and REVOLUTIONISTS” Four beauti- artists explore the concept of shelter calm in amidst stress and anxiety. ful, sassy women lose their heads in the “Give Me Shelter” art exhibit freedom but was also afraid rating the centennial of wom- The workshop, led by Sarah Pitkin, in Lauren Gunderson’s irreverent, at Del Ray Artisans. Elements of the of being passed down to Eli- en’s suffrage and highlighting licensed professional counselor, will girl-powered comedy set during the exhibit will benefit the Carpenters address different types of anxiety French Revolution’s Reign of Ter- Shelter. za Parke Custis Law, one of influential women throughout and stress, teach skills to manage ror. Playwright Olympe de Gouges, Time: Opening day from noon to 8 Martha Washington’s grand- the city’s history. Contact and reduce anxiety and help partic- assassin Charlotte Corday, former p.m. daughters who was reputed to them at AlexandriaCelebrates ipants learn ways to create calm in queen Marie Antoinette and Haitian Location: 2704 Mt. Vernon Ave. their lives. The workshop is limited to rebel Marianne Angelle hang out, Information: www.delrayartisans. own a “fierce temper.” [email protected]. Wear a mask. eight individuals to maximize discus- murder Marat and try to beat back org/exhibits George Washington tried

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 FEBRUARY 25, 2021 | 21

Weekly Words DEATH NOTICES

EDWARD BOLAND (78), of Alexandria, Feb. 15, 2021

HELEN CULLINAN (93), of Alexandria, Feb. 15, 2021

CHERI MEULENDYK (71), of Alexandria, Jan. 29, 2021

JUDITH MUSTOE (77), of Alexandria, Feb. 16, 2021

CORINNE SALAHI (75), of Alexandria, Feb. 12, 2021 Solutions from last week last Solutions from

NO COMMENT by Daniel Mauer, edited by David Steinberg ACROSS 55. Memphis-to-Chicago dir. 112. Group of computational 15. Port-au-Prince natives 72. Seafarer's drink 1. Banana ___ (UC Santa Cruz 57. Powerful Apple computer fields, informally 16. Like a wild party 75. "Don't care if they do!" mascot) 60. *___ vice president (... third 114. El ___ (Castilian knight) 17. I, on a clock 76. Minnesota college near 5. Tiny terrors letter) 115. Factory 21. Out of bed Carleton 9. Green space in Paris 63. "Hold your horses, horse!" 117. Avoiding journalists' ques- 24. Boo-boo 78. Question following a dramatic 13. Painter Frida 64. Diva's solo tions, or what each starred 25. Animated ogre pause 18. Remove from office 68. Swung wildly answer is doing? 31. Udder part 79. "The Thinker" sculptor 19. Grim 69. Number before tres 121. Transmission repair chain 33. "My Hero ___" (anime series) 80. Boxer known as "The Greatest" 20. Where Nebraska's largest 71. Alternative to speaking? 122. React to seeing your idol, 34. Designer Versace 81. Envision zoo is 73. Lead-in to "mater" perhaps 35. Like an aspiring attorney's 84. Tax experts, briefly 22. From the top 74. Fish that are snaky 123. Waterfront platform studies 85. Mystical glow 23. *Educated (hint: look down 77. *Certain athlete (... sixth 124. Red muppet 37. "___ at last!" 86. Magic and Jazz after this answer's sixth letter) 125. Second person? 38. Tolkien's tree creatures 87. Coalition letter) 80. Cash and stocks 126. TV star Leakes 40. Jrs., next year 90. As well 26. Swanky hotel offering 82. Natural 'do 127. Sleeve fillers 41. Big name in ketchup 92. Los Angeles, e.g. 27. Pumpkin ___ 83. Much-hated synonym for 128. Bend, as a muscle 43. Trailer hookup 93. Tire features 28. Shed tears "damp" 46. Gibb brothers' band 94. Scientific objective in 2020 29. Brooklyn ___, N.Y. 84. Venetian waterway DOWN 47. Actor unlikely to get a meaty role 95. "In other words ..." 30. Not behind the times 88. One of 10 "piggies" 1. Popular sink scrubber 48. Narcissist's problem 97. Ovum 32. Fearful 89. Conference handouts 2. Fallen angel 50. Presidential office shape 98. "My life's a mess," quaintly 34. Take hold of 91. *Widespread attention (... 3. Mark the start of 53. Gloomy atmosphere 102. ___ roast 36. Orcas, octopuses and such sixth letter) 4. The Monkeemobile, e.g. 54. Wax-wrapped cheese 103. Fenway Park team 39. Unfreeze 96. Opposite of full, moon-wise 5. Wasted some gas 56. Discontinue 105. Mary of "The Maltese Falcon" 40. More reserved 99. Disappearing Asian sea 6. Extract, as diamonds 58. Sentry's station 107. Element in fluorescent lamps 42. Perlman of "Cheers" 100. Rombauer who wrote "The 7. Word after "college" or "test" 59. Champion gymnast Aly 108. They may be on tap 44. Make, as money Joy of Cooking" 8. Make a teddy bear, say 60. Certain photography deg. 110. Seeded 45. Genetic messenger 101. Kind of acid in proteins 9. Breakfast item with a S'Mores 61. Summer drink endings 112. Mix 46. *Infringe on a copyright, say 102. Strictness flavor 62. Canon line 113. Those folks (... eighth letter) 104. Fill to capacity 10. Stockpile 64. "Little Birds" author 115. Buddy 49. Utterly destroys 106. Cut crystal feature 11. Genre for MC Lyte 65. Empties (of) 116. Taoism's ___-tzu 51. Prefix for some music genres 108. Jumper's cord 12. Munch (on) 66. Still competing 118. John or Jane in court 52. 107-Down and others 109. Unchallenging courses 13. Buckwheat porridge 67. Long, long ___ 119. Transcript stat 53. Vexation 111. Remote control brand 14. "Fighter" singer Christina 70. Beach bottle letters 120. NFL whistle blower 22 |FEBRUARY 25, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES Our View Four votes Opinion As the number of Alexandrians to pay for keeping a first-class hos- “Where the press is free and every man is able to read, all is safe.” who have declared their candidacies pital within Alexandria’s city limits, - Thomas Jefferson for City Council approaches a dozen, we share Goff’s concerns about the this year’s local Democratic primary unaddressed problems that adding Photo of the Week on June 8 becomes more fascinating 2,500 housing units at that site will by the minute. It’s also extremely im- cause. If just one in five units has one portant. school-aged child – it will be more – Most Alexandrians realize this then that development alone will re- but perhaps don’t often think of it quire another entire school in Alex- in these terms: It takes four votes andria. Not to mention other quality on the dais who agree on an issue of life issues, such as traffic, noise, to advance a particular perspective. pollution and the strain this enor- That’s it. mous project will put on Alexandria’s Short-term projects and long-term already overwhelmed sewer system. vision both emanate from four votes. All city voters would be wise to While Alexandria’s city manager spend some time deliberating on and staff are tasked with implement- which issues they care most about and ing council’s decisions and city code, making sure they know where council the seven-member legislative body candidates stand on those issues be- makes the policy. Alexandria’s mayor fore casting their votes on June 8. wields the gavel at council meetings, Make no mistake, the Democratic but their vote is just one of the seven. primary in this one-party city is the So, what matters most to you, as local election, as it’s been 12 years a voter? Is it the environment? Is it since a Republican has been elected PHOTO/CHELSEA WEST the health of small businesses? Is it to City Council. The Torpedo Factory on a sunny day. school overcrowding and the lack We will do our best to help inform of in-person instruction during the Alexandria Times readers on the Your Views pandemic? Is it racial justice? Is it candidates in the coming months. ethics and transparency in govern- • We will be running a front-page ment? Is it affordable housing? Is it profile on each council candidate A moral and professional failure the increasing density of Alexandria? who wishes to be interviewed, new- To the editor: partment of Environmental Quality. Is it historic preservation? comers and incumbents alike. An environmentally destructive The grant is intended to reduce It’s not enough to say all of these • We will offer each candidate and unnecessarily costly plan advo- phosphorus from entering the Ches- issues are important. For if all issues space on our editorial pages for one cated by two city officials in the De- apeake Bay. But here’s where T&ES are viewed equally, then nothing is 600-word My View column entitled partment of Transportation & Envi- went off its ethical tracks: The grant prioritized. Voters need to decide “Why I’m running for Council.” ronmental Services – Yon Lambert application gave it a choice. Either what’s most important to them. • We will send out a questionnaire and Jessie Maines – fails on moral use actual phosphorus data from Council members must often on issues to each candidate and will and professional grounds. However, Taylor Run or use extrapolated data make difficult choices. An example print their responses along with brief they can still redeem themselves. from a stream 125 miles away in from just this week was the decision bio blurbs in our Voter’s Guide, which Their current plan is to use tax Pennsylvania known to be laden about the Heritage development, will appear in the May 20 Alexandria dollars you remit to the state and to with phosphorus. which required choosing between a Times. the city to turn the ancient Alexandria To ensure it got a grant, T&ES massive jump in density or preserv- • We will cover council and may- stream known as Taylor Run into a opted to use the extrapolated data ing a larger number of affordable oral debates. glorified culvert denuded of hundreds from the phosphorus polluted Penn- housing units. • We will endorse candidates for of soil-stabilizing, nutrient-absorbing sylvania stream. T&ES never tested What’s needed during this cam- council and mayor in our May 27 edi- venerable trees and rare vegetation. Taylor Run to ascertain what, if any paign is a discussion around the tion. They assert their natural chan- phosphorus, it might be sending larger issue: Are huge increases in The local election officially gets nel design plan, publicly supported downstream eventually into the bay. density the best way to retain afford- underway at noon on March 8, when by Mayor Justin Wilson, is the only But one environmental staffer, able housing, or is the city better off candidates for council and mayor solution to stop phosphorus from en- Rod Simmons, did on his own time setting aside funding in the budget? must file in order to be part of the tering the Chesapeake Bay from Tay- and at his own expense. His find- The tradeoffs involving density were lottery drawing of ballot slots. Res- lor Run, a small headwater stream. ings were laboratory tested. The test also part of council’s decision to ap- idents can still file through March To implement it, T&ES sought and prove redevelopment of the Landmark 25 but will appear on the ballot after obtained a grant from Virginia’s De- SEE FAILURE | 24 Mall site, as resident Bill Goff points out those in the lottery. in his letter on pages 24 and 25. The direction of the city is in the The opinions expressed in letters and columns are those of the writers only and While we think being on the hook hands of voters on June 8. It takes do not reflect the views, nor receive the endorsement, of the Alexandria Times. for $130 million is a reasonable price four votes. WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM FEBRUARY 25, 2021 | 23

PTA should support all parents Ethical Reflections To the editor: support the majority of the com- with Rev. Ian Markham As you may know, parents are munity for whom Virtual+ is un- struggling, kids are in crisis and sustainable. ACPS’ own research the lack of leadership in ACPS to shows kids are failing more than help them is inexcusable. ever. It is my understanding that Further, the assumption COVID-19 and change everyone who supports the ACPS is following guidelines is Back in March 2020, we talked about hands might well dissipate forever. We opening of schools believes our wrong. Dr. Anthony Fauci along “two weeks, perhaps a month to flatten have known for decades that the ex- teachers are amazing and have with nearly every leading medi- the curve” and a V-shaped recovery. changing of the peace in church is much gone above and beyond their cal journal and association says These two weeks were to be a brief ab- more dangerous to your health than professional duty. in-person learning is best and is sence from the office, the church, the drinking alcoholic wine out of a shared While many “were able to safe with mitigations. restaurant and shaking hands. Almost a silver cup. transition ... to the virtual busi- The Centers for Disease Con- year later, the pandemic has changed us Overseas travel will take time to ness world,” a majority of city trol and Prevention says un- in ways that we are yet to realize. come back as Americans remind them- residents aren’t afforded such a equivocally “a school at the … An expectation of returning to the selves afresh that there is almost every luxury. highest risk of transmission, normality of 2019 has receded. We are in geographical experience you can imag- Shouldn’t the PTA be sup- does not mean that the school for a season of mixed econo- ine here in America, which porting those not as fortunate cannot re-open for in-person my. Masks and physical dis- is only a car ride – although and struggling with Virtual+? learning.” tancing will probably con- sometimes a long one – away. Sadly, instead of supporting all My hope is the PTA will follow tinue for many months while One more permanent change parents, the PTA is choosing to its mission and support all fami- restaurants and places of wor- involves the elderly and those support only those having suc- lies, those choosing Virtual+ and ship slowly open. In addition, with underlying health con- cess in Virtual+. those for whom in-person would there is an increasing consen- ditions: Due to COVID-19’s Kids are in crisis and “under- serve their families best. sus emerging that COVID-19 higher fatality rate, they stand[ing] that in-person is best -Gina Baum, will continue to be around, will always have to be care- … for most kids” does nothing to ACPS parent mutating and changing, to ful about going into crowded become a more fatal strain of REV. IAN venues. the seasonal flu that will need MARKHAM But there are even deeper an annual vaccination. changes happening. Those VDE policies are misguided Looking beyond this transition sea- of us living through this moment will To the editor: noun a student prefers. An indi- son, there are some changes we can an- never again take a restaurant meal with The Virginia Department vidual can prefer whatever pro- ticipate. In the work realm, there will friends or a concert for granted. The of Education has introduced a noun they like, but they cannot be greater flexibility. Although remote thought “do you remember the great guidance document entitled insist that a teacher or a fellow working can inflict a heavy toll – like pandemic of 2020-2021?” will be forever “Model Policies for the Treat- student use anything but the loneliness, weight gain and lack of hu- on our minds. ment of Transgender Students in pronoun that corresponds to the man interaction – there are also advan- We will live life with a heightened Virginia’s Public Schools.” child’s birth gender. tages: The long commute can be avoided sense of its fragility and, hopefully, I am not against an adult And thirdly, how can you and presence for spouses and loved ones with a heightened sense of gratitude. being able legally to do lots of force young girls to share their is made easier. Some companies will We know how hard it can be to function things that I would not do, but bathrooms with boys? Even if probably go to completely remote work, when the simple pleasures of life – visit- surely as adults, we should not those boys claim to be girls? while others will be more open to some ing an elderly parent, enjoying a sport- allow children to do such things. Physically they are boys. Why hybrid combination. ing event – are denied. So, we will find I include in that list deciding the punish 99% of a school to ac- In respect to housing, the delights of ourselves wanting to give thanks for the question as to whether one is a commodate the preferences of a downtown urban living look less attrac- very simplicity of gathering, being to- boy or a girl. fraction of one percent? tive when you need a yard for outdoor gether, enjoying company and not view- When children reach adult- Finally, when the school is entertaining. So, after decades of sub- ing each other as a potential carrier of a hood, they can decide for them- placed in loco parentis, it behooves urbia losing out to trendy Old Town, we life-threatening plague. selves who they are and take them to inform the parents of any are seeing single family detached homes We are in for a season of painful adjust- whatever steps they wish as a event that could impact a child’s enjoying a surge in value. ment. There will be winners and losers. consequence of that. But chil- well-being. If you want to drive Takeout and delivery are becoming For certain industries, this will be a mo- dren are and should be treated parents away from public schools more popular than dining at a restau- ment of dramatic upheaval and change, differently from adults for a rea- with all that that implies – includ- rant, and the convenience and ease of which will come at some social cost. son. They are not mature enough ing an unwillingness to pay their DoorDash and Grubhub will remain Imaginative adaptation will be re- to make such determinations. In tax money to schools and admin- attractive. Religious congregations warded. And those institutions and or- fact, they should be protected istrators who implement such pol- learned how to use technology during ganizations already anticipating this from making such decisions un- icies – go ahead. this pandemic, and the better ones will new world will be able to seize the mo- til they are fully aware of what You are making the best come out of this season stronger by cre- ment and come out of this pandemic it means. case I have yet heard for school ating hybrid congregations partly on- even stronger than they were before. I am also appalled at the choice. line and partly in person. thought of punishing staff or -Janet L. Bates, There are deeper changes at work in The writer is dean of Virginia students for not using the pro- Alexandria this moment. The practice of shaking Theological Seminary. 24 |FEBRUARY 25, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES Manipulating environmental Interstate Compact is legal To the editor: fect is when enough states I wish to address technical representing more than 270 data has long-term implications misleading statements from a electoral college votes have To the editor: as a put-down of global warming? Jan. 21 letter in the Alexandria set their own individual laws During her time as mayor, Allison Silber- What more egregiously obvious example Times, “Popular Vote Interstate regarding the awarding of berg made improving the city’s tree canopy could climate deniers ask for of manipulating Compact is Unconstitutional.” their own states’ Electoral a priority. Thousands of trees were planted, data to keep money flowing into projects than It would be unconstitution- College votes. helping alleviate density’s destructive envi- using clearly irrelevant data from rural Penn- al if states agreed to change I find it convenient when ronmental effects. sylvania to apply to an urban stream, while votes if another state were to some people support states’ Now, city hall myopically wants to com- ignoring actual data from samples a qualified dictate it. rights, then sometimes don’t. promise the tree canopy to reconfigure technician has collected and had a reputable The national popular vote Also, if enough states were Taylor, Strawberry and Lucky Runs to ob- laboratory analyze, to justify millions of dol- winner being awarded the elec- to set laws awarding their tain Chesapeake Bay environmental credits lars of grant money to pay a contractor well toral votes of Virginia is legal Electoral College votes to the and free money in the form of Virginia DEQ connected into doing these sorts of projects? now. All it takes is a law, prior popular vote winner – and matching grants. The fossil fuel industry is quietly watching to the 2024 election, that pass- that was the only reason Pres- City hall’s absurdly bureaucratic posi- these developments because, as soon as they es both chambers of the Legis- ident Joe Biden lost to former tion fails to see the big picture of not only happen, their lobbyists and public relations lature and is signed by the gov- Vice-President Mike Pence in the immense short-term damage this will agencies can spring into action. Once “scien- ernor. The only thing that this the hypothetical matchup the cause, but the much more subtle long-term tific consensus” is equated in the public mind “Interstate Compact” agree- letter writer mentioned – then impact of getting environmental credits by with “manipulating large amounts of data to ment does is set the starting I would support it. using a theoretical formula based on data keep money flowing into their projects,” per- date for Virginia to make this That is called having in- from somewhere else, while ignoring actual suading the public to go along with expensive, change in its law regarding the tegrity in my support for de- data from the places affected. disruptive changes to address global warming rewarding of Electoral College mocracy. I don’t just support Recall former Energy Secretary and Tex- becomes even more difficult than it already is. votes, after they set it into law. it when it is convenient. as governor Rick Perry’s quip about scien- What will city hall say then? The condition for Virgin- -Henry Johnson, tists “manipulating large amounts of data -Dino Drudi, ia’s own law to come into ef- Alexandria to keep money flowing into their projects” Alexandria FAILURE FROM | 22 Maines’ and Lambert’s highly questionable decision on Tay- The flaws of Landmark results made clear that Tay- lor Run to stand. To the editor: son Houston. Douglas MacArthur is next in lor Run has such a minimal Fortuitously, impending Inova Alexandria Hospital has decid- line with 10 other schools to follow. level of phosphorus that, had changes to pollution reduction ed to move to the Landmark area to build a The city and School Board have a pen- Maines and Lambert used this crediting will make it impos- twin tower, state-of-the-art facility with 230 chant for excessive spending. Jefferson test data in their grant appli- sible in the future for T&ES to beds, a trauma center and a medical office Houston came in 18% over budget. Patrick cation, the grant would not claim absurd amounts of ero- building. The total development will also in- Henry came in 40% over budget. The recent have been approved. sion and nutrient pollutants, clude 2,500 residential units and retail. cost of MacArthur is a 45% increase over the When the ethically unsa- thus forcing them to reeval- The bill for the city in this endeavor is original estimate, and the Minnie Howard vory manner by which T&ES uate the cost-effectiveness of $130 million: $76 million for the sewers and rebuild is currently assessed at $180 million acquired its grant was decried their projects. parks and $54 million for the land. Bonds for construction. in local newspapers by Alex- Because of these chang- covering 30 years will pay for this project, Our remaining 12 schools need to be andria resident Jim Clark, a es, effective July 1, 2021, the using the taxes generated by the develop- fixed, and the price tag will be in excess retired Environmental Protec- stream “restoration” indus- ment of the 2,500 residential units. In a re- of $1 billion. How can we reconcile laying tion Agency attorney, Wilson try expects the use of natu- cent article, it was stated by the city that this down $130 million at Landmark when the went in to full Trump-mode. ral channel design for small Landmark development would generate $778 schools are a mess? The return on the in- Wilson caustically de- headwater streams like Tay- million dollars over a 30-year term as a result vestment in the Landmark project for the nounced Clark’s criticism in lor Run to become outmoded. of tax revenues from the Landmark project. city over 30 years is quoted as net $600 mil- an email to me, saying “I read This recent development now Sounds like a winner doesn’t it? Well, no lion – a partial payment at best. (what Mr. Clark wrote) and gives T&ES another ethical not really. Where will the remaining funds for found it absurd… (It) shows a choice: Revise its ethically Where are the schools that will support school construction come from? remarkable ignorance of the flawed plan or rush it to con- this Landmark community? There must be I am concerned about the number of ten- laws and procedures associat- tract before July 1. students in the 2,500 units. However, ac- ants that will occupy the 2,500 units that the ed with compliance with ap- Frankly, it’s unconsciona- cording to the city plan there is no need for city will build and the number of cars that plicable law.” ble that T&ES would persist in a school at this location. How can this be? these units will occupy. Let’s assume the This disdainful criticism by pushing its current destruc- Tucker is at full capacity. Where do we units house two individuals with two cars. Wilson of a citizen, a retired tive and costly plan for Taylor build another school? The cars will overtake the roads at Landmark EPA attorney no less, who Run, especially since it would I am concerned with the need of renova- and spill over to Duke Street, creating severe simply sought to share his ex- not have received a grant had tion of Francis Hammond and George Wash- congestion and gridlock. pertise, was unnecessary and it used actual phosphorus data ington middle schools. I am concerned that Duke Street is already the most congested unbecoming. Worse will be from the site. only two elementary schools have been re- if our City Council is cowed -Jimm Roberts, cently renovated – Patrick Henry and Jeffer- SEE LANDMARK | 25 by Wilson into permitting Alexandria WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM OUT OF THE ATTIC FEBRUARY 25, 2021 | 25 Preserving the present: Documenting the Denise Dunbar Publisher & Executive Editor city’s response to the killing of George Floyd [email protected]

The Alexandria Black His- oral history interviews with Cody Mello-Klein tory Museum is dedicated to members of the community Managing Editor not only collecting the story and these too will be added to [email protected] of Alexandria’s past, but also the archive of voices record- Margaret Stevens documenting its present for ing these momentous events. Sales Director future generations. In the You can read the statement [email protected] wake of the tragic killing released on June 9, 2020 by of George Floyd on May 25, ABHM Director Audrey Da- Patrice V. Culligan 2020, there was an outpour- vis, which is posted on the Publisher Emerita [email protected] ing of shock, grief, solidarity Museum’s website, as well as and action from the Alexan- the statements of many city Allison Hageman dria community. leaders who also spoke out. Intern [email protected] Vigils, peaceful marches, You can still contribute to posters, signs and sidewalk this collecting initiative by Will Schick messages appeared across PHOTO/ ALEXANDRIA BLACK HISTORY MUSEUM completing an online form Intern the region. They gave voice available on the ABHM website [email protected] to the feelings and emotions to the local community to re- ther and his young daughter or by contacting the Museum. felt by a community at a piv- cord their feelings, thoughts, standing beneath the Black Learn more about the col- ADVERTISING otal moment in history. Much artwork, photographs and ob- Lives Matter Plaza street lections and the work of the Margaret Stevens of this material was ephem- jects. Staff collected some tan- sign near St. John’s Church in Alexandria Black History [email protected] eral, homemade and quickly gible objects, including Black Washington D.C. Museum at our website, al- Marty DeVine constructed by people who Lives Matter masks, pins, The ABHM’s staff added exandriava.gov/BlackHistory [email protected] felt an overwhelming need to signs, artwork and t-shirts. the digital photographs and and the work and program- give public voice to their per- However, the greatest vol- the physical objects to the ming of the Alexandria Com- Patrice V. Culligan [email protected] sonal emotions and beliefs. ume of donations were digital Museum’s permanent collec- munity Remembrance Proj- Realizing both the histor- photographs. Some are works tion, creating the Black Lives ect which, in conjunction Chelsea West ical importance of the events of art, hauntingly beautiful Remembered Collection. The with the Equal Justice Initia- Sales Intern and transient nature of the and poignantly sad. Others Collection is now available tive, is a city-wide initiative [email protected] material culture created, the are snapshots taken by people to view through our Historic dedicated to helping Alexan- Tina Franco Alexandria Black History while marching or standing at Alexandria Collections On- dria understand its history of Office Administrator Museum staff knew that they vigils and peaceful protests. line portal. The Museum will racial terror hate crimes and [email protected] needed to mobilize an effort Many document the signs of launch a new online exhibi- work toward creating a wel- to capture the community’s solidarity and allyship that tion for the anniversary of coming community bound by ART DIRECTOR response for the Museum’s sprung up in the windows of George Floyd’s death in May equity and inclusion. Lyvian Sieg permanent collection in or- shops, restaurants and homes that documents the local [email protected] der to preserve this story for throughout the Alexandria community’s response. Out of the Attic is the future. and Washington D.C. area. Office of Historic Alexan- provided by the Office of CONTRIBUTORS The Museum put out a call And a few are of a proud fa- dria staff conducted several Historic Alexandria. Mara Benner Alexa Epitropoulos LANDMARK FROM | 24 inent domain over the Duke idential units are built in such for apartments, towers for Kim Gilliam Street corridor in order to tear mass numbers. corporations – and we let Dawn Hoiem street in the city and the city is up sidewalks and store fronts The city has been neg- schools crumble. It shouldn’t Louise Krafft seeking to make it worse. The to place a new third bus lane, ligent in providing school be that way. Sarah Liu city, in an attempt to mitigate which will not mitigate the is- capacity. We build for high -Bill Goff, Dr. Vivek Sinha congestion, will declare em- sue of congestion if these res- density. We build towers Alexandria Jordan Wright

ALEXTIMES LLC Weekly Poll Denise Dunbar Managing Partner This Week This Week Take the poll at alextimes.com The Ariail family Suzanne Brock Which tax level on top of the 5.7% increase to the assesment do What is your attitude toward the Democratic primary on June 8? William Dunbar you prefer for this year's city budget? HOW TO REACH US 59% 6 cent drop A) There's never been a more important local election. 110 S. Pitt St. 20% Flat. B) It's important, but so are all elections. Alexandria, VA 22314 15% 2 cent drop. C) It's not particularly important. 703-739-0001 (main) 703-739-0120 (fax) 6% I'm not sure. D) I don't know. www.alextimes.com 26 |FEBRUARY 25, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES Classifieds AUCTIONS nior & Military Discounts. Call questions. Cash to help COMMISSION Dial in: 301-715-8592 1-877-614-6667 pay funeral and other final TUESDAY, MARCH 2, 2021 ATTN. AUCTIONEERS: Adver- expenses. Call Physicians PUBLIC HEARING – 7:00 PM tise your upcoming auctions Webinar ID: 926 5562 3381 ATTN. CONTRACTORS: Adver- Life Insurance Company- statewide and in other states. Password: 337741 tise your business statewide 844-509-1697 or visit www. ALEXANDRIA CITY COUNCIL Affordable Print and Digital and in other states. Affordable Life55plus.info/vapress SATURDAY, MARCH 13, 2021 Solutions reaching your target Public comment will be received Print and Digital Solutions PUBLIC HEARING – 9:30 AM audiences. Call this paper at the meeting. The public may to reach Homeowners. Call LEGAL NOTICE or Landon Clark at Virginia submit comments in advance Landon Clark at Virginia Press Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic Press Services 804-521-7576, to Planning & Zoning staff at Services 804-521-7576, emergency, the March 2, 2021 [email protected] [email protected] for [email protected] meeting of the Planning Com- the Planning Commission hearing, mission and the March 13, 2021 to the City Clerk at Gloria.Sitton@ HOME IMPROVEMENT REAL ESTATE ALEXANDRIA PLANNING meeting of the City Council are alexandriava.gov for the City Vinyl Replacement Windows ATTN. REALTORS: Advertise COMMISSION & CITY being held electronically pur- Council hearing, or make public Starting at $235* Installed w/ your listings regionally or state- COUNCIL suant to Virginia Code Section comments through the conference Free Trim Wrap Call 804-739- wide. 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WWW.ALEXTIMES.COM FEBRUARY 25, 2021 | 27 OBITUARY Herbert Lain Holt March 25, 1934 – Feb. 13, 2021 It is with great joy for the played quarterback for the ents and sister Charlotte long and wonderful life he Racers and was co-captain of Brown (Memphis, Tennes- lived that we announce the the team. He was the student see), Herbert is survived by passing of Herbert Lain Holt, body vice president and pres- his wife Celia Maurelle Holt, 86, on Saturday, Feb. 13, 2021, ident of the Methodist Stu- son John Lain Holt and daugh- at sundown in Carlsbad, Cal- dent Union. At Murray, Herb ter-in-love Martee Holt of ifornia. Still on his feet until met the love of his life, Celia Greensboro, North Carolina; just eight days prior to his Maurelle Kirksey of Paducah, grandchildren Lauren Mau- passing, Herbert long battled Kentucky, and they married relle Holt (currently Pouls- Parkinson’s Disease and nev- over the winter break of their bo, Washington, engaged to er once complained. Our hero senior year in 1955. They re- Darrin Cripe) and Alexander drew his last breath peace- cently celebrated 65 years of Lain Holt of Charlotte, North fully at home, surrounded by happily ever after. Carolina, (engaged to Claire loved ones. We could not have After graduating from Kane); daughter Kristen Walk- asked for more for our beloved Murray State in 1957, Herb er, son-in-love Justin D. Walk- husband, father, grandfather, then earned his master’s er of Carlsbad, California, and uncle, coach and friend. degree in secondary educa- grandchildren Scarlett, Stella, Herbert was born in 1934 tion administration over the Katherine and Audrey Walker; to Otis Eldridge Holt and summers while he worked as nephews Mike Brown (Car- Martha Louise Holt (nee Mc- head football coach and head la), Pat Brown (Bethany) and Daniel) in Gibson County, basketball coach for three Tim Brown; the late John Da- Tennessee. A proud son of years in McKenzie, Tennes- vid Kirksey (brother-in-love), Trenton, Tennessee, Her- see. Herb then accepted an sister-in-love Alice Kirksey, bert attended Trenton Ele- offer to teach and coach in niece Diane De La O, nephews mentary and Trenton Middle Alexandria, Virginia. In Al- Samuel Kirksey (Olga), and School and played quarter- exandria, Coach Holt drew COURTESY PHOTO Matthew Kirksey, extended back and was captain of the out the best from students family and countless friends. football team for Peabody and players and touched the Herb and Maurelle raised a few lives as a lifeguard on He will be sadly missed by all High School. During his high lives and hearts of hundreds their son and daughter in Kentucky Lake in his youth. who knew him and we are sure school tenure, Herb won the of students and their parents Springfield and West Spring- He loved country music that over his 40 working years distinction of being voted for 40 years. field, Virginia. After re- and dancing and became a as tireless coach and teach- football captain of the “Big Herb taught physical edu- tirement, Herb continued square dance caller in the er there will be many other 10” on all 10 western Ten- cation and English at Francis to coach kids’ baseball for 1970s. He gave his family lots stories to be shared about his nessee high school coaches’ C. Hammond High School the Springfield Babe Ruth of swim and beach days with kindness, support and gen- ballots. In basketball, Herb in Alexandria, where he was League. He proudly served bonfires and stories, trips to erous spirit. Herbert made a served as captain of the junior also the assistant football as the membership chair- music festivals, amusement difference in many lives and varsity and varsity basketball coach and the junior var- man, vice president and parks and county fairs, foot- heaven is a better place for teams. Aside from sports, sity baseball coach. When president of the Northern ball and basketball games, calling him home. Herb exhibited leadership as T.C. Williams High School Virginia Athletic Directors, long country drives and es- A celebration of life will the senior class president. opened, he served as head Administrators, and Coaches pecially family and friends. be held when people can Herb also played baseball football coach and the junior Association (NVADACA). He loved bluegrass, spaghet- safely gather. Please sign the for the Humboldt Tennessee varsity baseball coach. After A natural at sports, he ti Westerns, Burt Reynolds guest book and leave com- American Legion. Because three years, Herb was ap- turned his love of sports to- comedies, ice cream and U.S. ments at www.accucarec- of Herb’s outstanding sports pointed athletic director, and ward golf and enjoyed golf historical fiction novels in remation.com/obituary. In performances, he was hon- later became assistant prin- outings and trips with his no particular order. He was lieu of flowers, please con- ored in 2006 by being induct- cipal. Coach Holt was at T.C. son and friends. Herb never cool, calm and collected and sider a donation to a schol- ed into the Gibson County Williams High School foster- once met a stranger and was supported and loved us dear- arship fund in Herb’s name Sports Hall of Fame. Known ing goodness during the time known for his get-up-and- ly, always encouraging our for young college-bound as Ol’ Twinkletoes, he was of the story “Remember the go, tenacious and fun-loving independence and best selves athletes at Northern Virginia also honored in 2020 to be in- Titans.” Coach Holt also will spirit. Genuinely interested while also being available Athletic Directors, Adminis- ducted into the Peabody High be remembered for his dedi- in people, Herb never missed to catch us should we fall. trators, and Coaches Associ- School Football Hall of Fame. cation to students at George an opportunity to help some- Herb and Maurelle moved ation (NVADACA) at www. Herb graduated high Washington Middle School. one or bring out the best to Carlsbad, California to be nvadaca.org or P.O. Box 305, school in 1952 and attended Upon retirement from T.C. in them, whether a family with daughter and family Burke, VA 22009. Murray State University in Williams in 1997, he was in need or a kindred spirit and were able to enjoy lots of The family wishes to Murray, Kentucky on a foot- named “MacDaddy of the Se- hitchhiking a country lane. family celebrations together. thank his amazing caregiver, ball scholarship where he nior Class” by the seniors. Herb also saved more than Predeceased by his par- Sandy S. 28 |FEBRUARY 25, 2021 ALEXANDRIA TIMES

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