FALL 2022 NORTHERN VIRGINIA EDITION BRITISH SURFING COMMUNITIES OFFER FREE WOODEN BODYBOARDS TO CUT POLLUTION Across the beaches of Britain, communities of surfers are coming together to help cut plastic pollution in an exhilarating way. An underappreciated contributor of plastic waste during the short British summer is the mass of polystyrene bodyboards that descend onto the coast with families and children. Nicknamed “snappers” by locals, the boards unfortunately end up littering the beaches at the end of summer, when the tourists return inland with no further use or space for them. One local authority has completely banned them. However, one manufacturer has recognized that it’s not simply a problem of wasteful attitudes. The reality is that not every parent has the financial ability to splash out on an expensive sustainable alternative, but they don’t want their children to miss out on the fun during the often fleeting summer season in the UK. The Dick Pearce and Friends startup began offering free day-long rentals of traditionally crafted wooden bodyboards, the ecofriendly option for holidaymakers in southwest England wanting to hit the sea. Titling their idea “Surf Wood for Good,” they’ve since expanded their endeavor to over 30 locations across the British coast, with 140 wooden boards gifted to surfing shops across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. We could follow their example for the beaches in the U.S.
to greener fun for all in the near future.
WONDER WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD? Whether you're curious about prices in your area, whether it's an excellent time to sell, or just need an expert to answer your questions I can give you the tools and offer guidance through the entire buying or selling process. Let me know how I can help by simply giving me a call at 571-336-0088 to set up a time to connect.
WAYS TO MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS Whether you’re settling into a beautiful new home or you’re a longtime resident looking to make new friends, meeting your neighbors for the first time can be as daunting as making new friends in a new school. Here are four ways to help smooth out the process and make it as easy and natural as possible. LEAVE YOUR HOUSE It sounds obvious, but if you spend plenty of time sprucing up your front yard or walking around the local area, you’re bound to cross paths with your neighbors eventually. Introduce yourself and be open about the fact that you’re new to the area; you’ll likely receive some good tips on the neighborhood. LOOK FOR ONLINE LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUPS Many neighborhoods have Facebook groups, Nextdoor.com pages, WhatsApp groups and other online communities residents can join. Especially during the pandemic, these became important places for neighbors to cooperate, ask for help and share updates. OFFER A HELPING HAND If you notice a neighbor pruning their garden or fixing a fence, offer to help them. Not only will your kindness be greatly appreciated, you’ll also be able to chat and know each other while you’re working on the task at hand. HOST A HOUSEWARMING PARTY Everyone loves being invited to a party, and what better way to make friends with your new neighbors than to host one of your own? Not only will it help you meet other residents, but it could also help others to know each other too!