Author: ALXnow.com

On This Day in Alexandria History — “On Nov. 17, 1927, a devastating tornado ripped through Alexandria, injuring dozens of people and causing half million dollars in damage. The front façade of Jackson Hotel on King Street was torn away and some displaced families were temporarily sheltered at the almshouse in Del Ray … The path of the tornado spread over 17 miles long with a width ranging from 20 to over 300 yards. Witnesses described the sound of the wind as ‘a huge waterfall.’ Fortunately there were no fatalities, but 32 people were injured in the unusual weather event.” [Historic Alexandria]

APD Honors Crash Victims — “Chief McGuire joined Alexandria Families for Safe Streets this morning (Sunday) for an important ceremony marking the day and affirming our commitment to Vision Zero. We stand with survivors and all who continue to carry the impact of these incidents. Together, let us commit to safer roads, responsible driving, and protecting one another.” [Alexandria Police Department]

On This Day in Alexandria History — “On Nov. 14, 1854, the Alexandria Common Council prohibited construction of new wooden buildings in certain parts of town. Decades of devastating fires causing huge property damage were routine in Alexandria, and fears of a rapidly spreading fire that would cause a great loss of life were well founded. Sadly, just months later a massive conflagration at existing buildings along King Street killed seven firemen, who were later memorialized with an obelisk at Ivy Hill Cemetery.” [Historic Alexandria]

Free Paper Shredding Tomorrow — “In honor of America Recycles Day, the City of Alexandria’s Resource Recovery Division will host a free shredding event for residents on Saturday, Nov. 15. Residents are invited to bring eligible materials to the parking lot of 3871 Mt. Vernon Avenue (MOM’s Organic Market) from 9 a.m. to noon for secure, sustainable shredding and disposal.” [City of Alexandria]

On This Day in Alexandria History — “On Nov. 13, 1873, the Alexandria City Council granted permission to the Electro-Magnetic Telegraph Company, created in 1845 by inventor Samuel Morse, to run its lines through Alexandria providing instant communication for the first time from New York all the way to Richmond.” [Historic Alexandria]

House Passes Bill to End Shutdown — “The compromise funds three annual spending bills and extends the rest of government funding through Jan. 30. Republicans promised to hold a vote by mid-December to extend the health care subsidies, but there is no guarantee of success.” [The Associated Press]

On This Day in Alexandria History — “On Nov. 12, 1918, construction began for the U.S. Naval Torpedo Station, on North Union Street. A contract for its construction had been awarded on October 14, 1918, but work did not begin until the day after Armistice Day (November 11, 1918), which marked the official end of World War I. The first torpedo was produced there in November 1920. Once fully operational, the Torpedo Station was responsible for the manufacture and maintenance of torpedoes for the next five years.” [Historic Alexandria]

‘Living Legends’ Ceremony Tonight— “The project honors individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to the Alexandria community. Resident Nina Tisara conceived the idea in 2006 to document the lives of influential people in Alexandria while they are still alive and celebrated the first Legends in 2008. Among this year’s Legends is Olympian Noah Lyles, 28, who is not only known for his speed but for his advocacy for mental health awareness.” [Alexandria Living Magazine]

It’s Veterans Day — “Several city offices will close [today] in observance of the holiday, while veterans and the Alexandria community are welcome to participate in some local ceremonies and events. The Friends of Rocky Versace will host its annual Veterans Day ceremony at 1 p.m. inside the Mount Vernon Recreation Center at 2701 Commonwealth Avenue.” [ALXnow]

Minnie Howard Closed for Repairs —The main pool is closed until further notice pending repairs. The warm water training pool will have offer extended hours with limited capacity on these dates: Monday, Nov. 10 from 4-8:45 p.m.; Wednesday, Nov. 13 from 4-6:20 p.m. and 7:20-8:45 p.m.; Thursday, Nov. 14 from 4-8:45 p.m.” [City of Alexandria]

On This Day in Alexandria History — “On Nov. 10, 1900, the Alexandria Golf Club, located on Shuter’s Hill, hosted its first tournament. Golf course designer Robert White of Cincinnati had laid out the links that fall, and the following year a clubhouse was built. Entrance fees at the nine-hole course were $5 for men and $3 for women.” [Historic Alexandria]

Reminder: Old Town Road Closures — “Alexandria will temporarily shut down the streets surrounding City Hall on Monday as part of preparations for the City Hall Renovation Project. N. Royal Street will close to traffic between Cameron Street and King Street from 7 a.m. Monday until 7 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 13. Parking will also be prohibited on that section of road from Nov. 13-20.” [ALXnow]