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How to get a rain barrel in NOVA
Improve your environmental practices with a rain barrel. | Photo via The City of Alexandria
It’s starting to smell like spring, and that means one thing… rain. Make the most of the season by installing a rain barrel on your property and turning those showers into a sustainable resource for your home and garden.
What’s a rain barrel
These containers, typically holding 30 to 100 gallons, are designed to collect and store rainwater for later use. The harvested water can then be used for watering plants, washing your car, and tackling a variety of other practical household tasks.
Take part in local workshops to prepare your rain barrel. | Photo via The City of Alexandria
How to get one
The Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District hosts workshops and offers products like rain barrels to support and engage community members in conservation efforts. See when the next workshop will take place.
Virginia Lakes and Watersheds Association offers a statewide rain barrel reimbursement program, providing up to $100 per barrel. Homeowners can receive reimbursement for up to two rain barrels per property through the program. Apply to the program here.
Do you live in one of these zip codes? Northern Virginia Magazine recently released its roundup of the Top 20 Hottest Zip Codes in Northern Virginia. See if you made the list. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
Festival
The annual Feel the Heritage Festival returns to Arlington on Saturday, Feb. 21, from noon to 5 p.m. The Charles Drew Community Center will host an afternoon of local vendors, live performances, and engaging history exhibits in honor of Black History Month. The event is free, but you’re asked to RSVP. (ARLnow)
Opening
A new sushi spot is open in Reston. Noku sushi is now open in the Reston Row section of the Reston Station development. This is the second location — the first is at the Village at Leesburg center. Scroll to the bottom for more food news. (The Burn)
Drink
Cheers, NOVA. Celebrate National Margarita Day this Sunday, Feb. 22. Check out these five spots across Northern Virginia to sip on the perfect margarita. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
Environment
Think before you flush. The Arlington County Department of Environmental Services warns that wipes labeled as ‘flushable’ aren’t always safe to flush. This follows the recent sewage pipe rupture that was partially caused by a wad of such wipes. (ARLnow)
Community
Falls Church’s advisory panel is urging city leaders to install “See Me” safety flags at crosswalks to make pedestrians more visible. One organization reports that nearly 80% of drivers stop when the bright flags are used, and complete kits cost under $200, making them a low-cost safety upgrade. Tell us what you think? (ARLnow)
Edu
The Alexandria Learning Cooperative is looking to move to Fairlington United Methodist Church. This transition comes from the plan to move from their homeschool cooperative format to a full-time school for up to 75 students. Leave a public comment by Thursday, March 5. (ALXnow)
Tech
A venture capital firm known for its work on national security and tech is relocating.Razor’s Edge Ventures is moving from Reston Town Center to the Row at Reston Station, and the news site will be the 13-story building at 1800 Reston Row Plaza. (FFXnow)
Home
Problem: You need your TV mounted, but the instructions are long, confusing, and easy to get wrong. Solution: Taskrabbit. Taskrabbit connects you with vetted professionals experienced in furniture assembly, handyman services, art and TV mounting, cleaning + more. Skip the stress and get help when you need it — book a task.*
Pro Tip
Attention Amazon Prime members — don’t miss the chance to earn extra cash on every purchase you make. Check out these 16 hacks to save money + earn more cash, all from the comfort of your couch.*
Finance
Americans are choosing this powerhouse card for smarter spending. It boasts 0% intro APR on all purchases and balance transfers for nearly two years, up to 6% cash back, a generous sign-up bonus, and zero annual fee. Add it to your wallet.*
Health
Crowded restaurants, bustling cafés, lively gatherings — your social life can be loud. These best-selling hearing aids cut through the noise so you hear every word with clarity + confidence. Built with cutting-edge technology and a nearly invisible design, they fit seamlessly into your life. Start a 45-day no-risk trial.*
Eat
Some nights you have the energy to cook. Other nights, you have the energy to… stare at the fridge and negotiate with it.Forkful meals arrive fully prepared, use grass-fed beef and free-range chicken, and are 100% seed oil-free. Get 50% off your first box with code CMD50.*
Spots are limited for this day party in Del Ray, hosted by Rosemarino and Things to Do Del Ray, Virginia. On Saturday, Feb. 28, from 1 to 3 p.m., you’ll be able to enjoy food, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, a DJ, and more fun festivities. Make sure to comment “Day Party” on the post to secure your spot.
A 4.6-star rated collagen mask that features a Botox-like peptide developed using Nobel Prize-winning technology. It deeply moisturizes dry skin while boosting elasticity and improving skin sebum levels.
Monstera Burrito, currently located in Georgetown, is opening its second location in National Landing’s Water Park. And they’re serving up my favorite food... breakfast burritos. You can also enjoy coffee, sandwiches, and other bites. They expect to open on Saturday, March 7, so mark those calendars.