For the next week ARLnow will be counting down the most-read articles of 2019.
We’re kicking off the retrospective today with articles #16-20.
20. Flooding and Power Outage Force Westover Stores to Close (21,167 views)
During the July 8 flash flooding, some Westover businesses — including Ayers Hardware and Westover Market — were among the hardest-hit. Photos and video showed flooded basements and water gushing out of the front doors. Ayers in particular is still recovering; despite receiving tens of thousands of dollars in donations, the store was subsequently hit hard by the trade war and tariffs.
19. Person Struck by Train at Courthouse Metro Station (21,354 views)
A person intentionally jumped in front of a Metrorail train at the Courthouse Metro station and died at the scene. The incident happened during the Thursday evening rush hour, causing significant delays for Metro riders.
18. Dehghani-Tafti Defeats Stamos in Commonwealth’s Attorney Race (22,256 views)
Arlington and Fairfax counties elected progressive criminal justice reform advocates as Commonwealth’s Attorney, to the surprise of some who assumed voters would continue to cast ballots for more moderate, law-and-order oriented prosecutors. Despite a huge (relatively speaking) fundraising haul, Dehghani-Tafti seemed almost surprised by the result. Formerly a public defender, Tafti has since the election been working to prepare for the top prosecutor job and select her staff. She takes office after the new year.
17. The Dating Divide Between D.C. People And Arlingtonians (22,981 views)
This extensively-reported article on dating those who live on the other side of the Potomac River went viral locally and spawned a healthy discussion over whether the distance between D.C. and Arlington is or is not surmountable when it comes to sparking romance. One key quote from a professional matchmaker, who was asked about the impact of Amazon’s HQ2 on the local dating scene: “If it’s anything like the headquarters in Seattle, D.C. and Arlington better buckle up. There’s going to be a lot of new single people in town.”
16. Oz Restaurant in Clarendon to Close (24,406 views)
Arlington’s most visible entree into the world of reality television said a final g’day to Clarendon this summer. The Australian restaurant had a rocky start but eventually found its footing with the help of a new chef, a popular weekend brunch and an active bar scene. Running a restaurant is hard work, however, and owners Ashley and Michael Darby, of “Real Housewives of Potomac” fame, called it quits as their first child arrived. As chronicled on Instagram, Darbys appear to be keeping busy raising baby Dean, making TV appearances and traveling.
Our top stories countdown will continue Friday.
Recent Stories

YULA’s ultimate frisbee spring season is now open for registration. We offer programs for middle and high schoolers – open to all players, whether they are new or have previous experience.Middle SchoolIn the Middle School league, mixed-gender teams practice once during the week and have games on Sunday afternoons. Spring league is a fun, safe, and positive environment. The season begins mid-March and wraps up with a tournament in early June. There are several options for practice days, so we can often work around schedule conflicts with other sports & activities.High SchoolThe High School program is organized by school of attendance and teams are classified by gender. New players will learn the basics in a supportive, welcoming environment. Experienced players will continue to develop their skills, and enjoy competition with other high school programs. The season concludes with a state level championship tournament in late May.All players are guided by experienced coaches who emphasize sportsmanship and good spirit. Ultimate is a fun sport with great camaraderie!YULA does not want finances to limit anyone from participating. Our middle school program offers a “Pay What You Can” cost structure and our our high school program is offering a $50 discount to new players.Visit our website to register and learn more. Sign up with a friend, but don’t delay, the season starts in March!http://www.yula-ulti.org

The Arlington-Aachen High School exchange is returning this summer and currently accepting applicants.
The sister-city partnership started in 1993 by the Arlington Sister Cities Association, which seeks to promote Arlington’s international profile through a variety of exchanges in education, commerce, culture and the arts. The exchange, scheduled June 17th to July 4th, includes a two-week homestay in Aachen plus three days in Berlin. Knowledge of the German language is not required for the trip.
Former participants have this to say:
_”The Aachen exchange was an eye-opening experience where I was fully immersed in the life of a German student. I loved biking through the countryside to Belgium, having gelato and picnics in the town square, and hanging out with my German host student’s friends. My first time out of the country, the Aachen exchange taught me to keep an open mind, because you never know what could be a life changing experience.” – Kelly M._
Valentine Pop-Up at George Mason University
Valentine gifts for someone special or for yourself are here at George Mason University from noon -4pm on February 14, 2023. Satisfy your sweet tooth with Kingsbury Chocolates, find a handmade bag from Karina Gaull, pick up treats from Village
Standup Comedy Showcase Starring Matt Ruby (Comedy Central)
Dead Horse Comedy Productions brings together top comedians from the DMV and beyond for a live standup comedy show!
Matt Ruby, Headliner
Matt Ruby is a comedian, writer, and filmmaker from New York City. His comedy has been filmed by