What a challenging week in Alexandria. Here’s the rundown.
Alexandria track star Noah Lyles won the bronze medal in the 200 meters at the Tokyo Olympics, garnering congratulations from around the country, including locally by Virginia Governor Ralph Northam and Mayor Justin Wilson. Also this week, Lyles’ mom and brother held a watch party at his alma mater, Alexandria City High School.
This week, we also spoke with Alexandria boxer Troy “The Transformer” Isley, who said competing in the Olympics was a ‘dream come true.” Tynita Butts-Townsend, the third T.C. Williams High School graduate to participate in the games, did not make it past the first round of the high jump.
“I thought I would feel more crappy about getting last at the Olympics, but then I read that sentence again…IM STILL AN OLYMPIAN!” Butts-Townsend tweeted.
On the coronavirus front, with the City recommending residents wear masks indoors, this week the School Board voted to make it mandatory that face masks be worn when school starts later this month.
Important stories
- Five arrested after shots fired in Old Town North
- Eviction moratorium extended for Alexandria
- Monte Durham wants to film TV show out of his Old Town hair salon
- Development on West End lot could signal the start of Mark Center overhaul
- Former ACPS administrator Tammy Ignacio says experience matters in School Board bid
- Alexandria midfielder Eryk Williamson plays in U.S. 1-0 upset over Mexico in the 2021 Gold Cup
- Child neglect suspect arrested after evading Alexandria police for six months
- City plans commemoration for lynched Black Alexandrian
- ALX Community opening third coworking space in Old Town
- Woman arrested for sending threatening texts and attacking roommate in Landmark area
- Fingerprints lead to 7-Eleven robbery suspect already jailed after DNA linked him to separate 7-Eleven incident
- Mount Vernon Trail widening project gets funding
Top stories
- Parks Department braces for strain on system when Minnie Howard field closes down
- Alexandria reports 204 COVID-19 cases in July, a big jump over last month
- Alexandria City High School to host Olympics watch party to cheer on alumnus Noah Lyles
- ALXnow’s top stories this week in Alexandria
- GoFundMe launched for Will Nichols, retiring manager of St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub in Del Ray
- With ACPS expecting enrollment increase, Alexandria Mayor explains where kids come from
- Report details life of Black Alexandrians post-Civil War in home slated for redevelopment
- Noah Lyles to race for gold medal in 200 meters at Tokyo Olympics
- 18-year-old arrested for firing gunshots at West End apartment building
- EXCLUSIVE: Halal slaughterhouse opens, gives away free chickens for first two days in business
- Heritage project skirts denial at Board of Architectural Review meeting
Have a safe weekend!
Recent Stories

Are you seeking a confidential space where you can explore your emotions, overcome challenges, and find inner peace? Look no further than our dedicated psychotherapy service! We understand that life can be overwhelming at times, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
At Peaceful Mind Solutions, our passion lies in helping individuals like you navigate life’s complexities and find the strength to thrive. Our skilled and compassionate therapist is committed to creating a warm, non-judgmental environment where you can express your thoughts and feelings openly. With our personalized approach, we tailor each session to address your unique needs and empower you to overcome obstacles.
Through evidence-based techniques and a deep understanding of the human mind, our therapist will guide you on a transformative journey of self-discovery. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth, we’re here to provide guidance and practical tools for lasting change.
Time flies when you’re having fun! The T.C. Williams High School Class of 1973 will hold its 50th reunion July 21-23, 2023 in Alexandria. All graduates and their adult nears and dears are welcome. Events include a Friday evening icebreaker, Saturday dinner dance, and a Sunday brunch. For more information: tcwilliams73.com, 770.789.3534.
Spring Fling at Rising Sol Yoga School
Join us for a day of FREE hot yoga. Experience our class styles and meet our teachers. Buy a bite at the Bake Sale to benefit The Carpenter’s Shelter, peruse some special vendors, take advantage of in-person only discounts on