New Water Taxi Service, Doggie Dining, and Taste of Falls Church Winners

Is your home ready for fall and winter? McEnearney Associates is offering a free seminar on getting your home buttoned up for the season. The discussion will be led by realtor Debbie Hauter at 7 p.m., McEnearney Associates, 212-A N. West St. in Falls Church. 

Take Fido out for some German fare in Clarendon, coffee on Columbia Pike or Thai food in Shirlington. Arlington County has granted variances to 27 restaurants to allow dogs in designated outdoor seating areas. The restaurants must comply with a number of conditions to minimize public health and safety risks. Click here for a list of restaurants.

Speaking of restaurants...here are the Taste of Falls Church award winners. Nourish Market earned an honorable mention, Curry Mantra II was named Best Value, and to Mad Fox Brewing Company took the top prize at this year's event. 

Hop on board a new water taxi service aboard the Miss Sophie, connecting the National Mall, Georgetown and National Harbor. This service will be offered six days a week, Tuesdays through Sundays, with no service on Mondays, except holiday Mondays. Reservations may be made online, www.potomacriverboatco.com, or tickets may be purchased at the ticket booths at National Harbor and Georgetown.  At the National Mall, tickets may be purchased on the boat, on a space available basis. 

Save the Date: Brides Against Breast Cancer is a national nonprofit that tours the country selling donated wedding gowns with the proceeds going toward programs and services for people who are impacted by cancer.  The "Nationwide Tour of Gowns" will make a tour stop in Washington, DC Sept. 13-14 at the Dupont Circle Hotel, 1500 New Hampshire Ave. http://www.bridesagainstbreastcancer.org/upcoming-shows-2013/washington-dc-bridal-show-september-2013/