Author: Ryan Belmore

On This Day: Alexandria Had 48 Factories, 328 Retail Businesses — On this day in 1914, the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce reported the City had 48 manufactories, 39 wholesale houses, and 328 retail businesses, with combined business revenues of $30 million. [Historic Alexandria]

Alexandria Health District Navigates Federal Funding Crisis — When the Virginia Department of Health lost $219 million in federal COVID-era grants this March, Alexandria’s health district laid off 11 staff members who provided community immunization clinics, IT support, and multilingual outreach to diverse immigrant populations. District Director Dr. David Rose rescued nine positions by tapping into American Rescue Plan Act funds and securing emergency funding from Alexandria’s city council, though the relief is temporary as the district braces for increased demand from residents who may lose Medicaid coverage under recent federal changes. The funding cuts compound existing VDH problems including a $33 million deficit and embezzlement scandals, though Commissioner Karen Shelton says the department is working through 30 recommended reforms to rebuild accountability across Virginia’s 35 health districts. [ALXnow via Virginia Mercury]

The Alexandria Police Department is advising residents and visitors to plan for multiple events today that will affect traffic and access in Old Town and along the Route 1 corridor. At the same time, early voting continues for the November 4 general election.

A protest against President Trump’s policies will span much of the day, beginning with a demonstration along Route 1 in 90 minutes and continuing with an afternoon rally at Market Square. A City Council public hearing meeting and the weekly farmers’ market are also underway or starting soon.