ARLNow Celebrates 10 Years Covering Arlington Online

ARLINGTON, VA -- Scott Brodbeck launched ARLNow, the digital news website, back in 2010 with just a car, camera, laptop, police scanner, and willingness to cover the Arlington County community. Back then, he had no idea whether people would actually read it or businesses would buy advertising to support it.

On Wednesday night, Jan. 29, a large crowded gathered at Bronson Bierhall in Ballston to help Brodbeck celebrate ARLNow's 10th anniversary.

"We have had the privilege of continuing to serve the community for 10 years, and I'm just blown away," Brodbeck said about the party.

Brodbeck jokingly credits the success of ARLNow to his stubbornness and willingness to work 12 hours a day.

"There are a few more things that go into it," he said. "One of those things that really matters is caring, caring about the community and the people in it. That's something I've done since day one and continue to do."

Judging from the turnout at Wednesday night's party. Arlington has clearly embraced Brodbeck and the website he started.

"Reaching 10 years is a significant milestone for any small business," said Kate Bates, president and CEO of the Arlington Chamber of Commerce, who attended Wednesday night's party. "Over the last decade, ARLNow has become the real-time source for breaking local Arlington news. ARLNow’s coverage is valued by residents, businesses, and our local government as demonstrated by the range of attendees who gathered together for their celebration.”

Brodbeck's success is not limited to Arlington. He runs Tysons Reporter and Reston Now, which cover the Tysons Corner and Reston communities, respectively. He also just launched ALXNow, which covers Alexandria.

"I have no more plans for additional sites," he said. "We have four sites that we own and operate in Northern Virginia. We have one that we partner with in D.C. We help them with their technology and ad sales. I'm not planning on doing anything more beyond that. I think we're reached a good point, and what I want to do now is go up but not out."