There are or have been 4,045 cases of COVID-19 in Alexandria since the pandemic started in March, according to the Virginia Department of Health.
That’s an increase of 68 cases since Friday, and VDH attributes the spike to a “surveillance system reporting issue” and missed 689 cases.
With its sold-out inaugural season in the books, the Alexandria Drive-In has written ACT for Alexandria a $15,000 check and is planning a sequel.
“Alexandria Drive-In started as a dream to help raise funds for locally loved nonprofits and to provide our friends and neighbors safe family entertainment,” Kelly Grant, chief operating officer for ALX Community told ALXnow. “The generosity of our volunteers and sponsors has been overwhelming. The decision to schedule a second series has been made and will be announced next week.”
City Recommends Staying Home for the Holidays — “The safest way to enjoy the holidays while COVID-19 remains in the community is to find ways to celebrate at home… For everyone’s safety, the CDC recommends quarantining for 14 days following all travel.” [City of Alexandria]
Voter Registration Deadline is Approaching — “There’s currently no line to vote at the Office of Voter Registration and Elections (132 N. Royal St.)! This option is available to all registered voters in Alexandria through Oct. 31. For days, times, other locations, and other voting options, visit alexandriava.gov/1720.” [Twitter]
It’s the end of a busy week in Alexandria.
Once again, crime and public safety stories were the most read on ALXnow.
Alexandria has formed a multi-agency Eviction Prevention Task Force with the goal of lowering evictions and helping impacted residents.
“There have been nearly 20K unemployment claims in Alexandria since the beginning of the pandemic,” tweeted Mayor Justin Wilson. “Keeping our residents housed during this uniquely challenging time has required partnership and new collaboration. More work is required.”
There have been three more deaths due to COVID-19 in Alexandria, and the Virginia Department of Health is anticipating more than 20,000 additional cases statewide by Thanksgiving.
The death toll now stands at 73, and the victims were two women and one man. Two of the victims were in their 70s and one was in their 80s. Of the 73 deaths, 96% have been residents above the age of 50.
Beyer Criticizes Trump’s Position on Michigan Governor Abduction Plot — “Trump has now responded. This is just sick.” [Twitter]
Voter Registration Deadline Approaching — “The deadline to register to vote in the November 3 elections or update voter registration information is Tuesday, October 13.” [Twitter]
Expect stand-up comedy to continue in Alexandria while the weather holds out.
For more than a month, friends Mike Kurtz of Cry Baby DC and Jack Coleman of Capital Laughs have put on stand-up shows in an Old Town parking lot, and the performances have been a welcome relief for the comedians since gatherings have been restricted.
Alexandria’s Latino population has been heavily impacted by COVID-19, and an annual 5K to support them is going virtual.
From October 8-26, nonprofit Casa Chirilagua will conduct its virtual 5k run and walk to help support students and families impacted by COVID-19, virtual schooling and unemployment.
Alexandria residents feeling the financial impact of the pandemic could be eligible to get $100 to $400 in grocery store gift cards as part of a new program with the city and ACT for Alexandria.
Residents who have not received financial help from the government will be prioritized for the ALX Cares Grocery Gift Card Program, which runs through December or until the funds run out.
(Updated 12:10 p.m.) Alexandria Nearing 4,000 cases of COVID-19 — “The latest update from the City on COVID-19: Positive tests up 6 to 3,938 in the City (84 in last 7 days) 7-day Positivity Rate down to 4.0% 0 new hospitalizations Still safer at home, wash hands and wear masks.” [Twitter]
The Majestic Reopens After 8-Month Hiatus — “Diners can expect an all-new menu offering seasonal dishes such as Roasted Parsnip Agnolotti with black truffle, bacon jam and parmesan ($12), vegetarian Preserved Smoked Beet Tartare ($9) with crispy capers, horseradish yogurt, shallots and almonds, and of course there’s the Majestic Burger ($17) or Rigatoni & Eggplant for $18.” [Alexandria Living]
