Summer brought with it a heat wave this year. Air conditioners are staying busy trying to beat the heat as the thermometer climbs toward 100 degrees today. The Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative (NOVEC) offers easy, low-cost ways to stay cool:
• Set the air conditioner thermostat at 78 degrees when family members are home; run fans to feel cooler. Set it a few degrees higher if no person or pet is at home.
• Close and lock all storm and regular windows before turning on the AC.
• Close window shades, blinds, and drapes on the sunny sides of the home. As a quick temporary solution, tack up old, white bed sheets or cloth. White reflects more sunlight.
• Delay running the dishwasher, clothes washer and dryer until late at night or early in the morning.
• Turn the electric water heater temperature from 140 degrees to 120 degrees.
• Turn off all unnecessary lights, electronic devices, and appliances.
• Replace incandescent light bulbs — which produce only 10 percent light, but 90 percent heat — with compact fluorescent bulbs. CFLs are cooler and last much longer.
• Cook with a microwave oven instead of the stove and oven. Grill outdoors.
• Replace or clean the AC filter monthly to keep the AC from having to work harder.
It could be a long, hot summer. Invest more to save more on electric bills:
• Install a programmable thermostat.
• Have at least 38-R insulation in the attic.
• Install an attic fan.
• Consider installing window awnings on the sunny sides of the house, if your community allows them.
• Install Low-E film on sunny-side windows to repel heat rays.
• Replace regular window-screen mesh with solar mesh on sunny-side windows.
• In the fall, plant shade trees on the southern and western sides of the house.
 For more energy-saving tips, go to novec.com/useitwisely12.
Recent Stories
Step back in time and experience history firsthand at Ben Lomond Historic Site in Manassas, VA. Built in 1832, this remarkable home once served as a Confederate field hospital during the Battle of First Manassas. Today, visitors can explore its preserved rooms, complete with Civil War-era graffiti left by Union soldiers, as well as the original slave quarters, smokehouse, and dairy that tell the story of the people who lived and worked here.
Stroll Through History – Don’t miss the fragrant Rose Garden, featuring one of the largest collections of antique roses in the region.
Engaging Tours – Open Friday-Monday, 10 AM-4 PM, with guided tours at 11 AM and 2 PM. Admission: $5 per person, free for children under six.
Accessible Experiences – Enjoy 360° Virtual Tour tablets and foreign language guides in French, Italian, German, Chinese, and Spanish—available at no extra cost!
Volunteer With Us! – Love Civil War history or gardening? Join our team and help preserve this incredible piece of Prince William County’s past.
Visit us at 10321 Sudley Manor Dr., Manassas, VA 20109
(703) 367-7872 | ? [email protected]
Plan your visit today and experience history like never before!
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Coles District Supervisor Yesli Vega is pushing to cancel the long-debated Route 28 Bypass project, a multi-year effort designed to alleviate congestion on Route 28 by extending Godwin Drive to connect Manassas with Dulles Airport. The Prince William Board of County Supervisors is set to vote on her resolution during its meeting on Tuesday, February 4, 2025. The project, initially endorsed in September 2020, was meant to relieve congestion on Route 28 by constructing a four-lane divided bypass extending Godwin Drive across Sudley Road. The road would have connected with Route 28 at a signalized intersection north of Bull Run Stream in Fairfax County.
If you’re searching for a loyal companion with a heart as big as his head, look no further than Hugo! This magnificent 4-year-old Mastiff-mix weighs in at 114 pounds, but don’t let his size fool you—he’s a gentle giant with a sweet and easy-going nature.
Hugo loves nothing more than taking leisurely strolls on nature trails, often checking in with his walking buddy to make sure you’re right there with him. His previous owner shared that he gets along well with children and other dogs, though he can be a little nervous around new people. Because of this, Hugo would do best in a quiet home with a patient owner who can help him build his confidence.If you’re searching for a loyal companion with a heart as big as his head, look no further than Hugo! This magnificent 4-year-old Mastiff-mix weighs in at 114 pounds, but don’t let his size fool you—he’s a gentle giant with a sweet and easy-going nature.
Hugo loves nothing more than taking leisurely strolls on nature trails, often checking in with his walking buddy to make sure you’re right there with him. His previous owner shared that he gets along well with children and other dogs, though he can be a little nervous around new people. Because of this, Hugo would do best in a quiet home with a patient owner who can help him build his confidence.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
