Solar panels are a great way to utilize those hot sun rays for good.| Photo by Los Muertos Crew via Pexels
Saving energy is a positive, no matter how big or small — it benefits the environment and decreases your monthly expenses. From installing solar panels to closing the blinds while you’re away, there are plenty of ways to keep your bills environmentally + financially friendly.
Water Usage
You’re probably familiar with the basics of water saving. To keep things fresh, we rounded up some energy (and bill) saving ideas you may not have heard before:
If you drop an ice cube, don’t kick it under the fridge; Give it to a plant as a little treat.
Consider bathing your dog outside to help water a dry area. Note: Use biodegradable soap.
Place a bucket in the tub while waiting for the shower to warm up, and reuse that water for plants, laundry, etc.
True or False: The amount of sunlight that strikes the Earth’s surface in an hour and a half is enough to handle the entire world’s energy consumption for two years.
Hint: Keep reading the article to see if you can find the answer.
Artisan Pizza + Craft Cocktail Class | 1-2 p.m. | The Commentary, Arlington | $82 | Enjoy an interactive pizza-making and mixology class to impress your guests at your next house party.
Starting today at around 8 p.m., crews will begin shifting all four southbound lanes on I-495. The newly aligned southbound lanes are expected to open by 10 a.m. tomorrow. This work is part of the Virginia Department of Transportation’s preparations for upcoming toll lane construction. (FFXnow)
Eat
Want free Potbelly? The Fairfax Corner and Reston locations just got a fresh new look — check them out today. The first 50 guests at Fairfax Corner get a coupon book for a year of free food. Reston’s first 50 customers will score surprise gift cards worth $10–$100.
Try This
Grab your (foodie) passport. A dozen restaurants in Falls Church and Arlington are part of “Foodie Trek,” running until Sunday, Aug. 31. Pick up a passport at any participating spot, collect stamps by visiting all, and win prizes. (ARLnow)
Edu
Manassas City Public Schools is providing free breakfast and lunch throughout the summer for all children. These meals will be served on a first-come, first-served basis at four different sites around the area. (InsideNOVA)
Plan Ahead
Adam Sandler is hitting the road with his “You’re My Best Friend” comedy tour, making a stop in Washington, DC on Saturday, Sept. 27. General ticket sales start today at 12 p.m., so don’t miss your chance to catch him live.
Travel
Vote for Alexandria in the 2025 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards. The deadline to fill out the survey is Monday, June 30. Last year, Alexandria was ranked third among the top small cities in the US, and has consistently been ranked high.
Featured Deal
Athleta’s Semi-Annual Sale is on. Take up to 70% off bestsellers, workout staples, and everyday favorites built to move with you. Hurry — the sale ends Sunday, June 29.*
Post of the Day
Want to meet the Savannah Bananas? They’ll be taking over the Dunkin’ at 3325 Richmond Hwy. tomorrow, June 28, from 9 to 11 a.m. The team will be taking orders and giving away free merchandise in between their games in DC.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Has anyone checked out Paragon Theaters yet? Located in Falls Church, this new spot has seven theaters, a full bar, and some much-needed AC on a hot summer day. Tickets are $8 through June 30 to celebrate the opening.