The Alexandria Brief
Independent journalism that makes you smarter about Alexandria, Virginia. Deep dives delivered daily, powered by neighbors, free for all.
What Makes The Alexandria Brief Different
Original reporting
Deep dives and analysis - Not just what happened, but why it matters and what it means for Alexandria. Solutions-oriented journalism that makes you smarter about your community.
By a neighbor, for neighbors
I live in Alexandria and cover the city I call home. These decisions affect me too—I, like you, am a taxpayer and resident.
The Alexandria Brief is a member of the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce and the Del Ray Business Association.
Community-powered
100% funded by community members—no advertising, no conflicts of interest, no corporate ownership. Just independent journalism, answerable to neighbors.
Free for all
All content is free for everyone. No paywall. Local news should be accessible to every Alexandria resident, whether you can pay or not.
Community-focused journalism
I focus on what matters to Alexandria—not what gets pageviews or clicks. Real journalism serving the community’s needs.
My Vision & Values
My Mission: To deliver independent journalism that makes Alexandria residents smarter about their community. I focus on accountability, deep dives, and the stories that affect your daily life—not what gets pageviews.
My Values: I’m committed to accuracy, independence, accountability, and transparency—the ethical standards of the Society of Professional Journalists, Online News Association, and Local Independent Online News Publishers. I will correct all known errors and clearly mark any sponsored content.
What I Cover
From city hall to your neighborhood—government decisions, development projects, community events, public safety, local businesses, and the stories that affect your daily life in Alexandria.
Government & Accountability - City council, school board, mayor, budget, elections
Education - Alexandria City Public Schools, policies, budgets
Development & Planning - Construction, zoning, neighborhood impact
Community - Events, neighborhoods, civic associations, local businesses
Public Safety - Crime, police, fire, emergency services
Quality of Life - Transportation, parks, infrastructure, housing
About The Publisher
I’m Ryan Belmore, and I live in Alexandria—covering the city I call home.
With nearly 15 years in local independent journalism, I’ve been recognized as LION Member of the Year (2020). I am a member of the Society of Professional Journalists, Online News Association, and Local Independent Online News Publishers.
I’m committed to the codes of ethics of these organizations: accuracy, independence, accountability, and transparency.
I’ve served on Alexandria’s Commission for the Arts and Board of Zoning Appeals. I contributed weekly to ALXnow from June 2023 to February 2025, then served as its publisher from March to October 2025.
These decisions affect me too—I’m a taxpayer and resident, just like you.
Contact: ryan@alexandriabrief.com
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Our Newsletters
The Alexandria Brief - A daily newsletter that makes you smarter about Alexandria—with news, context, and analysis on what’s shaping your community. Delivered every weekday morning
Weekend Brief - A weekly newsletter, delivered on Thursdays, that serves as your guide to all that’s happening, new, and to do for the weekend ahead in Alexandria.
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Why Become A Member?
While all our journalism is free, we’re funded entirely by member support. If you’re able, consider becoming a member to help keep this sustainable.
