The Alexandria Brief — PM | Thursday, February 5

Extreme cold watch issued; CIA officer enters Beyer primary; Warner warns of election threats; measles exposure

It’s been a busy news day — here’s what I’ve published since this morning.

Extreme cold watch issued as another Arctic blast approaches. Wind chills could reach 10 below zero Saturday, with gusts up to 55 mph. The city has opened warming centers and extended shelter hours. Snow is possible on Friday afternoon before the front arrives.

Former CIA officer enters crowded primary to challenge Beyer. Marine veteran Adam Dunigan says he resigned from the agency to fight what he calls an authoritarian project. He joins five other candidates in the Democratic primary for Virginia’s 8th District.

Warner warns of threat to Virginia elections. In his weekly media availability, the senator drew Nixon parallels as he blasted DNI Tulsi Gabbard’s role in a Georgia voting machine raid. He linked it to ICE surveillance and efforts to nationalize elections.

Health department warns of new measles exposure sites. Anyone present at five northern Virginia locations should fill out a survey for the Fairfax County Health Department.

100% of high-traffic trails now clear. Snow crews are shifting focus to Old Town parking. Mayor Gaskins is headed to Richmond for the General Assembly. It was the first full school day since the storm.

Election Day is Tuesday. Early voting continues through Saturday at 132 N. Royal St.

Weekend guide: What’s happening Feb. 6-8. Restaurant Week wraps up, the Old Town Warehouse Sale returns, and Sunday is Super Bowl Sunday — but bundle up.

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In case you missed it this morning

Groomer found guilty in dog’s death. A former Richmond Highway groomer was convicted of felony animal abuse after a video showed he choked and slammed dogs over six months. He told law enforcement he felt “justified.”

Filing deadline for Council race is tomorrow. Five candidates are vying for McPike’s seat. Anyone else must file between 4-7 p.m. Friday at the ADC office on Mount Vernon Ave.

..and here’s this morning’s full newsletter.

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Behind the scenes

I've been listening, and based on your feedback, I've added sections to the site to make it easier to find the coverage you care about:

• Government & Politics — city council, state legislature, elections, and policy.

• Public Safety — police, fire, courts, and public health.

• Development — real estate, construction, planning, and zoning.

• Business — local economy, openings and closings, economic development.

• Food & Drink — restaurants, bars, breweries, and the local dining scene.

• Community & Culture — neighborhood news, events, arts, and civic life.

• Education — ACPS, school board, and issues affecting students and teachers.

• Transportation — roads, transit, bikes, pedestrians, and your commute.

I’m still working through 500+ posts to get everything categorized — please bear with me as sections fill out over the coming days.

I’ve also been adding an “In Brief” section to the morning newsletter for quick-hit local items, and on busy news days like today, I’m experimenting with afternoon editions. Let me know what’s working, just hit reply.

Thanks for reading, and for your ongoing support,

~ Ryan