News

More than 6,000 homes and businesses were without power Friday afternoon in the Pentagon City and Crystal City area after a major outage.

The outage started around 1 p.m. There were frequent police and fire dispatches to the area for traffic complaints, numerous elevators stuck with people inside, and a report of smoke and alarms in the Pentagon City mall food court.


News

With water-system issues in Richmond delaying the start of the legislative session, Arlington representatives are ready with firm goals as the Virginia General Assembly prepares to get going next week.

“There is so much more to do to continue building a more just, equitable Commonwealth,” said Del. Adele McClure (D-2), who is entering her second legislative session after winning election in 2023.


Announcement

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Events

About a month out from Valentine’s Day, love is in the air in Rosslyn.

Whether you’re in search of ‘the one’ or just some new friends, the Rosslyn BID is inviting all to find connection at its “Cuffing Season 2.0” event next Wednesday, Jan. 15.


Around Town

Arlington’s real estate market reflects the broader community — it’s diverse, dynamic, and never boring.

This weekend’s local open houses offer a snapshot of Arlington’s wide variety real estate offerings, from affordable condos to multi-million dollar homes. One highlight: just over $2 million, this home includes custom woodworking, screened in porch and fenced backyard.


Opinion

Though Valentine’s Day is next month, it’s not too early to make reservations to celebrate with your special someone.

We’ve compiled the top spots for “Best Restaurant for a Fancy Dinner in Arlington” as part of our ARLnow Readers’ Choice awards. Before choosing your favorite, consider menu options, taste, service and overall atmosphere.

Did we miss your favorite restaurant? Write it in!

Don’t wait to vote as polls will close in two weeks.

Voting for Best Gym/Fitness Studio in Arlington is still taking place. Be sure to cast your vote before voting closes next Friday at 9 a.m.

Two weeks ago, we voted on ARLnow’s pet of the year 2024. The results are now official:

  1. Dottie
  2. Trifecta
  3. Princess Kona!

News

As Arlington County eyes another possible tax increase this fiscal year, County Manager Mark Schwartz warns that trimming the county $1.65 billion budget would be no small task.

From the rising costs of compensation to funding commitments that can’t be altered in the short term, Schwartz suggested that cutting costs to fill an anticipated budget gap of $30 to $40 million — about 2% of Arlington’s $1.65 billion budget — isn’t as easy as some might think.


News

The Democratic field for the lone County Board seat on Arlington’s 2025 ballot ticked up to two on Wednesday night (Jan. 8).

As expected, incumbent Takis Karantonis launched a re-election bid at the monthly meeting of the Arlington County Democratic Committee.


News
Snow remnants in Ballston (staff photo by Jay Westcott)

Arlington Schools Open Again — Arlington Public Schools students are back in class again today, with schools set to open on time (as of Thursday night). [Twitter]

Annual MLK Tribute Approaching — “Join Arlington County as our community honors the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the 2025 MLK Tribute event on Sun., Jan. 19, 5-6:30 p.m. in the Wakefield High School auditorium.” [Arlington County]

Local GOP Questions Fire — After word that a small fire at the Crystal City Sports Pub was likely set intentionally, the Arlington GOP posted on X: “Suspicious, huh. The restaurant is owned by Republicans.” On Friday afternoon, Freddie’s Beach Bar and McNamara’s Pub were also identified as having been damaged by the arsonist. [Twitter]

Report Potholes Online — From Arlington’s Dept. of Environmental Services: “January flakes bring street surface breaks. Report a pothole and other stuff to the County in a few clicks.” [Bluesky, Arlington County]

Saturday Snow Update — From Fox 5’s Mike Thomas: “Here’s our thoughts for the snow event late tomorrow night through Saturday morning. Center of the wave passes well south of DC, so southern zones have the best shot at more than a coating.” [Twitter, Capital Weather Gang]

It’s Friday — Clouds will increase throughout the day, with a high near 30 and northwest winds at 5 to 10 mph in the morning. Snow is expected Friday night, primarily after 1am, with a low temperature around 25 and light south winds. There is a 90% chance of precipitation, and new snow accumulation may be less than an inch. [NWS]