The Alexandria Brief — PM | Monday, February 9
Thousands line Old Town streets to welcome Buddhist monks; more than 4,000 have voted; Council to rededicate Confederate-named streets tomorrow
What a scene in Old Town today. Thousands of people lined Washington Street to welcome Buddhist monks nearing the end of a 2,300-mile Walk for Peace from Fort Worth to Washington, D.C. Mayor Alyia Gaskins presented the group with a city proclamation, and Venerable Bhikkhu Paññākāra told the crowd at Christ Church to practice mindfulness and “react with kindness only.”
Meanwhile, more than 4,000 Alexandrians have now voted early ahead of tomorrow’s special election — and City Council meets tomorrow night to rededicate three Confederate-named streets.
Here’s what I published today.
Thousands line Old Town streets to welcome Buddhist monks on Walk for Peace. Mayor Gaskins presented a proclamation as thousands gathered along Washington Street and at Christ Church. The monks are expected to arrive at the Capitol tomorrow.
More than 4,000 have voted ahead of Tuesday’s special election. Polls are open 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. tomorrow. All Alexandria voters will choose between Elizabeth Bennett-Parker and Julie Robben Lineberry for Senate District 39. Voters in House District 5 will also pick between Kirk McPike and Mason Butler.
City Council to rededicate three Confederate-named streets Tuesday. The Torpedo Factory operator process, Duke Street plan and McPike vacancy are also on the docket.
The week ahead in Alexandria. Election Day Tuesday, George Washington Birthday Parade Saturday, and much more.
ICYMI: Here’s this morning’s newsletter. With a full round-up of weekend news and things to do today in Alexandria.
Coming Up
Election day is tomorrow. What Alexandria voters need to know.
Mayor Gaskins to join National Building Museum panel on equitable cities on Thursday. Gaskins will join urban planners and a science fiction author at the National Building Museum next month for a discussion on building healthier, more equitable cities.
Heart of Del Ray voting and announcement. Voting open through Thursday, announcement comes on Friday.
George Washington Birthday Parade on Saturday. Route modified due to Marke Square construction.