Mortgage rates tumble; VA cracks down on handheld devices while driving; poultry butcher in Alex.?

It's challenging to keep up with local news, particularly the items that may impact your life, your commute, or your community. That's why each week we compile a few interesting developments happening in the area.

The Washington Post: Mortgage rates tumble to 10-month low

"According to the latest data released Thursday by Freddie Mac, the 30-year fixed-rate average dropped to 4.41 percent with an average 0.4 point. (Points are fees paid to a lender equal to 1 percent of the loan amount.) It was 4.46 percent a week ago and 4.32 percent a year ago. The 30-year fixed rate hasn’t been this low since early April."

The Washington Post: Va. lawmakers vote to ban handheld devices while driving, but will it reduce crashes?

Virginia lawmakers voted this week to prohibit drivers from using handheld mobile devices while behind the wheel, a major tightening of an existing ban against texting while driving as new research shows distracted driving remains a persistent problem.

Washington Business Journal: Live poultry butcher operation proposed for Alexandria

"Alexandria could soon be home to the region’s newest halal butcher shop and live poultry butchery operation. Saba Live Poultry, a family-owned halal and organic meat processing operation with 14 locations on the East Coast and two in California, is requesting a special use permit to open at 3225 Colvin Road, a relatively industrial area off Duke Street."

The Washington Post: How to stain woodwork in your home like a pro

"Anyone can stain wood, but you have to do several things and know a few secret tips to get results professionals produce on a daily basis."

ArlNow: Two More Companies Will Soon Offer Dockless Scooters, E-Bikes in Arlington

"Two more companies are planning to bring their dockless scooters and e-bikes to Arlington in the coming days. Spin will soon be dropping its electric scooters around the county, while Jump will offer both e-bikes and scooters in Arlington. Both companies currently operate in D.C."

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