News
Colonial Village seen through an office building (courtesy George Brazier)

Ex-Arlington Officer Charged — A former Arlington County police officer has been charged with three counts of solicitation of a minor following a Fairfax County police investigation. Lawrence Lofzewski, 37, of Springfield served with ACPD from 2022 to 2025 and previously with D.C.’s Metropolitan Police Department, FCPD said. He was working as a mental health associate at Rivermont Schools in Lorton at the time of his arrest. [WJLA]

Trump Speaks at ANC — President Donald Trump honored the nation’s fallen service members Monday during a Memorial Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, speaking before veterans, active-duty military personnel and Gold Star families near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. “From 1776 to 2026, America has always stood as a great and moral cause,” Trump said. [The National Desk]

Mini Grant Applications Open — Arlington County’s Neighborhood Mini Grant Program is accepting applications through July 17 for projects that promote community building, racial equity and inclusion. Up to $25,000 in total funding is available, with grants capped at $1,000 per applicant. Eligible projects include block parties, neighborhood clean-ups and small beautification efforts. [Arlington County]

Recycle Right Rollout — The County is rolling out a new “Recycle Right” initiative aimed at reducing contamination in curbside recycling. Key reminders: keep recyclables empty, clean and dry; leave out plastic bags; and flatten cardboard boxes. The County’s “Where Does It Go?” tool offers item-by-item disposal guidance. [Arlington County]

Holiday Travelers at DCA — At Reagan National, travelers told WTOP about their Memorial Day plans. “I’m here to celebrate my brother’s 80th birthday,” said Marcel, who flew in from Atlanta. “He has no idea and it’s been a secret for two months.” AAA expected 45 million Americans to travel at least 50 miles over the holiday weekend. [WTOP]

Diploma 60 Years Later — Arlington resident Ken Grundborg twice missed his Georgia Tech commencement ceremonies — in 1960, when the Army sent him to Korea after he finished undergrad, and again in 1966, when graduate work was followed by a posting to Vietnam. Six decades later, the school welcomed the 88-year-old retired Army colonel back to receive both diplomas. “It was the most memorable day of my life,” Grundborg said. [Kiwanis Club of South Arlington]

Arlington 1958 Flashback — Falls Church News-Press columnist Bill Fogarty looks back at May 1958 in Arlington, when the County considered an $8 million bond referendum that would help build a new Central Library on Quincy Street and a new Courthouse, while the School Board narrowly defeated a motion to require sitting teachers to sign a “non-Communist oath.” New hires, however, would have to. [FCNP]

Spanberger Defends Veto — Gov. Abigail Spanberger (D), speaking at the Center for American Progress’ Ideas conference in Washington, defended her veto of public sector collective bargaining legislation passed by the Virginia legislature. “I continue to support public sector collective bargaining. And I continue to look forward to a place where we’ll have a bill that I’ll sign into law,” she said, citing implementation concerns. [FNCP]

It’s Tuesday — Expect mostly cloudy skies today with patchy fog and a 40% chance of rain showers. High near 77 with an east wind around 1–5 mph. Showers and thunderstorms become more likely overnight, with a low around 66. [NWS]

Want more local news from around the region? Check out our newest sister site, WSHnow.


Around Town

Good Friday evening, Arlington. Let’s take a look back at today’s stories and a look forward to tomorrow’s event calendar.

🕗 News recap

The following articles were published earlier today — May 22, 2026.

Since it’s Friday, we’ve also compiled a list of the most-read articles of the week, below.

  1. Virginia Democrats demand return of Arlington House materials targeting Robert E. Lee (20270 views)
  2. Student struck by pickup truck near Washington-Liberty High School (14392 views)
  3. Virginia Supreme Court agrees to take up Missing Middle lawsuit (11581 views)
  4. Arlington Pride block party is canceled, replaced with LGBTQ+ movie screening (7052 views)
  5. Two more office buildings approved to become housing in Crystal City (6604 views)
  6. Windows smashed, items stolen from 16 vehicles in Potomac Yard (4852 views)
  7. Clarendon barbecue restaurant’s inventive flavors featured on WETA’s ‘Signature Dish’ (4608 views)
  8. Superintendent seeks $250M to refurbish and expand TJ, Swanson middle schools (4491 views)
  9. WEATHER ALERT: Severe Thunderstorm Watch issued for Arlington (4446 views)
  10. Longtime state delegate and circuit court judge James Almand dies at 77 (3993 views)
  11. Dominion announces merger with NextEra, creating a massive power company as AI drives energy demand in the US (3738 views)

📅 Upcoming events

Here is what’s going on Saturday in Arlington, from our event calendar.

Here are the events planned for Sunday:

🌧️ Saturday’s forecast

Expect rain and areas of fog with a high near 61 degrees today and an east wind around 11 mph. The chance of precipitation is 100%, with new rainfall between a quarter and half an inch likely. Rain continues into Saturday night, with a low around 55 degrees and an east wind of 6 to 10 mph. The chance of precipitation remains high at 90%, with similar new rainfall amounts expected. See more from Weather.gov.

💡 Quote of the Day

“Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.”
– Mother Teresa

🌅 Tonight’s sunset

The MonumentCam screenshot above is used with permission of the Trust for the National Mall and courtesy of EarthCam.

We hope you have a great weekend, Arlington! If you have something to say about an issue of local note not covered today, feel free to post it as a letter to the editor on our new forum. 👋


Sponsored

No matter your age, having a will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family. A properly prepared will ensures your wishes are carried out, helps reduce family disputes, and can make the estate administration process much smoother.

Unfortunately, many Virginians make avoidable mistakes that can create unnecessary stress and expense for their loved ones. Here are five of the most common.

1. Trying to Write a Will Without Legal Guidance

Online templates and DIY wills may seem like an easy way to save money, but they often create bigger problems later. Virginia law has specific requirements for a valid will, including proper signatures and witness requirements. Even small mistakes can leave a will open to challenges or delay the administration of an estate.

2. Forgetting to Update Your Will

A will shouldn’t be something you create once and forget. Marriage, divorce, the birth of a child or grandchild, buying a home, or losing a loved one can all affect your estate plan.

Reviewing your will every few years—or after a major life event—helps ensure it still reflects your wishes and keeps your loved ones protected.

3. Overlooking Federal Estate Tax Planning

Virginia no longer has a state estate tax, but federal estate taxes may still affect larger estates. As home values and investments continue to grow, more families may find themselves closer to the federal exemption than they expected.

Planning ahead can help minimize tax consequences and preserve more of your estate for your beneficiaries.

4. Not Planning for Minor Children

For parents, a will does more than distribute assets—it allows you to name a guardian for your minor children. Without that designation, a court may ultimately decide who will care for them.

Many families also choose to establish a trust so inherited assets can be managed responsibly until children reach an age or milestone they determine is appropriate.

5. Choosing the Wrong Executor—or Not Naming One at All

Your executor is responsible for carrying out your wishes, paying debts, and distributing your assets. Selecting someone who is organized, trustworthy, and capable of handling those responsibilities is just as important as deciding who inherits your property.

It’s also essential to clearly identify your beneficiaries. Vague language or outdated information can create confusion and, in some cases, disputes among family members.

Don’t Forget the Rest of Your Estate Plan

A will is only one part of a comprehensive estate plan. Depending on your circumstances, you may also benefit from:

  • A revocable living trust
  • A durable power of attorney
  • An advance medical directive
  • A transfer-on-death deed for your home

Together, these documents can help protect your finances, outline your healthcare wishes, and simplify matters for your family if you’re ever unable to make decisions yourself.

The Bottom Line

A well-prepared estate plan provides peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. By avoiding these common mistakes and keeping your documents up to date, you can help ensure your wishes are honored while reducing stress for your family in the future.

If it’s been several years since you’ve reviewed your will—or you’ve never created one—it may be time to speak with an experienced Virginia estate planning attorney about your options.

PJI Law, PLC: Estate Planning Attorneys in Fairfax, VA

At PJI Law, PLC, we work with clients across Fairfax and Northern Virginia to build estate plans that reflect their intentions and align with Virginia law. Our estate planning attorneys take the time to review your assets, beneficiary designations, business interests, and family structure so your plan works as intended.

Whether you’re creating your first will or revisiting an existing one, our team will help you avoid the mistakes that can undermine your entire estate plan.

Call (703) 865-6100 or contact us online to schedule your complimentary consultation today.

PJI Law, PLC
3900 Jermantown Rd, 2nd Floor
Fairfax, Virginia 22030
(703) 865-6100
https://pjilaw.com


News

An Arlington detective has been honored by the U.S. Department of Justice for cybercrime work that included helping take down a foreign forum trafficking in child sexual abuse material.

Detective John Bamford of the Arlington County Police Department was named the Eastern District of Virginia’s 2026 Hometown Hero, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced today. The award was created by the DOJ to mark the 250th anniversary of American independence and recognizes a law enforcement partner who reflects “a steadfast commitment to the enduring ideals of liberty, service, and civic responsibility,” according to the announcement.


News

As she mulls over her own political future, Arlington’s senior state senator is seeking to help Democrats pick up seats in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Despite the Democratic redistricting map being overturned by the Virginia Supreme Court, Sen. Barbara Favola (D-40) believes her party has a chance in November to flip several of the five Virginia congressional seats currently held by Republicans.


Around Town

After about a year of preparations, a Nashville-inspired burgers-and-fries franchise is seeking to open soon in the Buckingham neighborhood.

Nash & Smashed aims to open next month at 310 N. Glebe Road, serving up hot chicken, sandwiches and smash burgers, Chief Operating Officer Lamaan Malik told ARLnow. The restaurant, which replaces a former Boost Mobile, will have seating for 25 guests and will stay open late throughout the week.


Opinion

Arlington’s title companies handle everything from title searches and insurance to settlement services, protecting your interests and guiding you through the closing process with professionalism.

Here are the nominees for “Best Title Company in Arlington” as part of our ARLnow Readers’ Choice awards.

Did we miss your favorite title company? Write it in!

Voting will close in two weeks.

Voting for Best Real Estate Agent for Sellers in Arlington is still taking place. Be sure to cast your vote before voting closes next Friday at 8:30 a.m.

Two weeks ago, we voted on the Best Moving Company Serving Arlington. The results are now official:

  1. Square Cow Movers (tied)
  2. Bookstore Movers (tied)
  3. Town & Country Movers

News

A Ballston-based defense technology firm is investing $19 million to expand its Arlington headquarters and add 210 jobs, doubling its Virginia workforce.

Innovative Defense Technologies, headquartered at 4401 Wilson Blvd, develops automated software tools that help U.S. military programs integrate, test and field new systems faster. The expansion was announced today by Gov. Abigail Spanberger (D), who approved an $800,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to help Arlington land the project.


Sports

Jimmy Carrasquillo continues to establish himself as the most accomplished public-school soccer coach in Arlington.

The longtime coach of the Washington-Liberty Generals boys team recently earned his 300th career victory. The breakthrough came May 19, when the host Generals blanked the Marshall Statesmen, 5-0, in a Liberty District tournament-semifinal match.