Help local farms feed their livestock with your leftover holiday decor. | Photo via Flickr
Not sure what to do with your pumpkin after Halloween this year? We’ve got the perfect recommendation for you. And the answer is a lot cuter than you might think — check out Pumpkins For Pigs.
What’s Pumpkins For Pigs?
This organization works to reduce food waste by bringing items like pumpkins to farms, sanctuaries, and rescues for feed and compost.
Founded by Jennifer Seifert in Loudoun County, this organization has expanded to operate 600+ drop-off sites across 44 US states and Canada. Seifert first launched the idea by partnering with 10 farms and animal sanctuaries, inviting people to drop off their leftover pumpkins for use as animal feed or compost.
Benefits of donating
According to the organization’s website, there are many benefits besides providing food for livestock. Here are just a few:
Reduces costs for local farms, sanctuaries, and animal rescues by providing free compost material.
Decreases landfill waste, helping extend the lifespan of existing landfills and lessen environmental impact.
Strengthens community connections by engaging residents in sustainable, farm-supporting initiatives.
South Block is opening at Reston Town Center tomorrow, Oct. 25. There will be free food, a banana costume contest, giveaways, and a live DJ at the opening event. (FFXnow)
Opening
The new West Alexandria Transit Center will open on Sunday, Nov. 2, as part of the transformation of the former Landmark Mall site. The West End Alexandria Redevelopment Project aims to revitalize the area into a mixed-use community featuring retail spaces, housing, townhomes, and the new Inova hospital campus. (ALXnow)
Sports
The Arlington County Board unanimously approved a $6.5 million project to renovate and enhance the tennis facilities at Bluemont Park. The upgraded complex will feature a dedicated practice area located outside the main court section. (ARLnow)
Development
Phase one of the Issac Newton Square development in Reston is officially underway. The plan is to convert this office park into a mixed-use neighborhood over the next 20 years. Check out the development plan. (FFXnow)
Northern Virginia recently launched Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a non-profit bringing free books to children all over the world. The nonprofit’s leadership hopes to start in Alexandria, and then expand throughout NOVA as funds allow. (NBC Washington)
Shop
Starting to think about holiday shopping? Tysons Corner Center welcomes Reformation with free mini flower bouquets tomorrow, Oct. 25 for shoppers. Other new stores include Cole Haan, Gap, Rivian, and SKIMS. Plus, a Harry & David gift baskets location is coming soon. (FFXnow)
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Help out local community members through the Nourish Your Neighbor Program, which will be taking place at markets all across NOVA through Friday, Oct. 31. Purchase extra items at these markets and drop them off at the market’s information tent. Interested in volunteering? Sign up here.
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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.
Once again I am here to say GOOD LUCK to those racing the Marine Corps Marathon this weekend. On my run the other day, I ran past the finish line and saw them setting up for the race. I hope to catch some of the action Sunday, so if you hear someone you don’t know screaming really loud for you, it’s probably me.