News

Morning Notes for June 17, 2026

Gulls and ducks compete for snacks at the Old Town waterfront (staff photo by Jay Westcott)

On This Day in Alexandria History — “On June 17, 1899, druggist John Janney closed the pharmacy he had operated at the northwest corner of King and Washington Streets, and left Alexandria to open a new drugstore in Newport News. It was the first time in over 50 years that Alexandrians could remember the store being closed and vacant. The store subsequently was acquired by Ernest Allen, and in 1906 became Timbermann’s Drug Store, which operated at the prominent corner until moving one building north in 1950.” [Historic Alexandria]

35 Years of Van Dorn Street Metro — “Cheers to 35 years! 🎉 Since its opening on June 15, 1991, Van Dorn St station has served as a connection between Alexandria and Fairfax County, and last year it served 1 million trips! Here’s to beating that record in 2026.” [WMATA/Bluesky]

Spanberger Announces Deal to Establish Marijuana Retail Sales — “The compromise between [Gov. Abigail] Spanberger, Fairfax County Del. Paul Krizek (D-16) and state Sen. Lashrecse Aird (D-13) would allow recreational marijuana sales to begin on July 1, 2027. The governor’s office says this allows time for the Cannabis Control Authority to develop regulations, testing and safety standards and oversight framework.” [FFXnow]

Cops Fatally Shoot Suspect on Metrobus After Woman’s Killing — “The man attacked the woman, with whom he had been in a relationship, near Wisconsin Avenue NW and Porter Street at about 7:10 a.m. Tuesday, interim chief of police Jeffery Carroll said. When police arrived, they found the woman on the sidewalk.” [NBC Washington]

Alexandria Resident Caught in Apartment Trespassing — “A 43-year-old Alexandria man was arrested and charged after a camera captured him inside a City of Fairfax apartment, according to police.” [Patch]

Alexandria City High School Scores Cappies Awards — “Two cast members in the Alexandria City High School (ACHS) production of “Anastasia: The Musical” took home 2026 Cappies awards. ACHS senior Ailinn Colarulli received the Featured Actor in a Male Role in a Musical honor and sophomore, Page Vogel, received the Vocalist in a Female Role award.” [Alexandria City Public Schools]

Tickets for Chamber ALX’s 40 Under 40 Awards on July 16 — “This is one of the most anticipated nights of the year. We’re bringing together a packed house of business leaders, friends, colleagues, and past honorees to celebrate 40 incredible young professionals who are already shaping the future of our region.” [Chamber ALX]

Affordable Homeownership Unit Still Available — “The City of Alexandria Office of Housing continues to market a resale-restricted condominium unit at 3702 Valley Dr, Alexandria Virginia, 22302. The one bedroom/one bath, 760 square feet, unit is listed at a reduced price of $345,000 and is part of Parkfairfax community. This unit includes a patio and in-unit washer and dryer. Amenities include pools, tennis and basketball courts, playgrounds, exercise room and more.” [City of Alexandria]

Senior Law Day Aids Older Adults — “When Alexandria resident Annie Hall left Senior Law Day at First Baptist Church of Alexandria on June 6, she took home more than a packet of information. Like the event’s other 225 attendees, Hall gained valuable insights into estate planning, public benefits, financial protection, and how to spot potential scams.” [The Zebra]

Next Community Cookout — The city’s next Community Cookout will happen at the Andrew Adkins Community (1200 block of Wythe Street) from 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 17. More than 50 city agencies and nonprofits have participated in the events. The rain date is June 18. [City of Alexandria]

Parking Options in Old Town — “Market Square Garage may be down, but garage parking is abound throughout Old Town! Check out City-owned and private garages for stress-free parking, and look for real-time parking availability signs. Learn more: alexandriava.gov/parking.” [Alexandria T&ES/X]

It’s Wednesday — It will be sunny with a high of 88 degrees and a southwest wind at 3 to 8 mph. Wednesday night will be partly cloudy, with temperatures dropping to around 69 degrees. Expect a south wind at 5 to 9 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph. [NWS]

Support local journalism. Join the ALXnow Press Club to boost our reporting and to get upgraded newsletters.

About the Author

  • This is the staff byline for ALXnow, used by editors and other full-time staff. Launched in October 2019, ALXnow is the place for the latest news, views and things to do around Alexandria, Virginia.