Local News and Events

We hope everyone enjoyed a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday with their friends and/or families. We certainly did. Now that that is over, it's time to focus on Christmas! And here in Ventura County, that means the Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights 2025!What: Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights 2025Where: Ventura Harbor VillageWhen: December 12th & 13th, from 4 pm to 8 pmAdmission: FREEVentura Harbor Parade of Lights 2025Beginning at 4 pm on both December 12th and the 13th, organizers of the annual Parade of Lights in Ventura set up rides for the kids and carnival games for all ages. Food vendors set up their trucks around the lawn area as well to ensure that everyone keeps their strength up. At 5:30 pm, live performers entertain with twinkling LED lights while the SB Bubble Guy also performs. Do... 12/01/2025

Happy Birthday to My Best Friend Forty-eight years ago, I met the person who became my best friend and husband. Today is Larry's birthday!  There is never a day or minute that passes that I don’t thank God for this remarkable Renaissance man.  This man flew F-4s, kayaked in the Everglades, dived, and hunted. He is also a great baker and sewed his own lightweight tent and curtains for the VW bus he transformed into a camper.    He may not have been the person I ever imagined myself ending up with, but he’s exactly who I needed—and the one I was meant to be with. There’s no one I’d rather spend my days with than Larry. Happy Birthday to my best friend, my soulmate, and my gift from heaven.  I feel like a part of my soul has loved you since the beginning of everything.Maybe we’re from the ... 12/01/2025

Journaling for Christmas Celebrations  As the December festivities begin for the Christmas season, please participate and write your blog posts with comments too. Most important of all, please do not leave anyone feeling sad or lonely. To the hundreds gathered in spirit and celebration, I am extending my arms wide with love and gratitude. May this season be a tapestry of laughter, kindness, and cherished memories. Let every carol sung, every gift given, and every embrace exchanged be a reminder of the beauty that lives in generosity and connection.Here's what's happening in and around Flower Mound. December 6 - Christmas Parade & Tree LightingCelebrate the season at the Flower Mound, Texas Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting. Experience the ambiance of the illuminated nighttime parade feat... 11/30/2025

🏡 Top 10 Real Estate FAQs in Pensacola, Pace & Gulf BreezeBuying or selling along the Gulf Coast comes with unique questions. Here are the 10 most frequently asked questions I hear from clients—and precise answers to guide you.1. 💰 How much is my home worth right now?•     Value depends on recent comparable sales, condition, and location.•     Online estimates are rough; a local broker’s analysis is more accurate.Graphic idea: Bar chart comparing “Online Estimate vs. Local Market Value.”2. 🏠 Should I renovate before selling?•     Skip over‑improvements that price you above neighborhood comps.•     Focus on ROI areas: kitchens, bathrooms, curb appeal.Graphic idea: “Do/Don’t” split graphic: ✅ Fresh paint, ❌ Full gut remodel.3. 📈 Is now a good time to buy or sell?•     Gulf Coast markets r... 12/06/2025

🥗Catholic Charities - Rachel Hrbolich PSA☀️For ALL of Your East Valley AZ Real Estate Needs📞Call or 🙋‍♂Text Brian at 480-773-2370📨Email BrianInspired by posts that I see from others, I wanted to begin a weekly series of resources for people in need who are in the East Valley.  I think continuing to research this weekly series will also help me to discover what is out there for those in need.Catholic Charities is committed to helping a community’s most vulnerable with solutions that permanently improve lives. They do this by serving and sheltering neighbors, strengthening children and families, and welcoming refugees and immigrants, and collaborating with the community. To learn more, click HERE.☀️For ALL of Your East Valley AZ Real Estate Needs📞Call or 🙋‍♂Text Brian at 480-773-2370📨Emai... 12/07/2025

Iron Bowl Saturday in Auburn, Alabama: Game Day, War Eagle Spirit, and Auburn Life 🦅🏈There’s nothing like Iron Bowl Saturday in Auburn, Alabama, when the city becomes a living postcard of orange and blue. From the moment the sun rises over Jordan-Hare Stadium to the last “War Eagle!” shouted at Toomer’s Corner, you can feel the pride, energy, and heart that make this community special. As a REALTOR®, proud Auburn alum, and someone who’s lived here for decades, I spent the entire day capturing it all — the traditions, the fans, the laughter, and the memories that remind me why people don’t just visit Auburn… they move here.The Police Escort: When the Team ArrivesThe excitement started hours before kickoff. The police escort for the Auburn football team came roaring through, lights flashi... 11/30/2025

Tis the season to shine, shimmer, and show off your holiday spirit! The Canyon Creek Light Fight is ready to turn the neighborhood into a dazzling wonderland of twinkling lights, joyful décor, and over-the-top creativity.Whether your style is timeless and classic, wildly whimsical, or full-on Griswold glory, this is your moment to light up the block! Register your home and join in the merriment, because nothing spreads holiday cheer like a little friendly competition.Important Dates to Know:🎄 Register by: Monday, December 1st🎅 Viewing & Voting Window: December 8th–19th✨ Winners Announced: December 20thAll decorations must be ready to glow by the time the voting begins on December 8th. Residents will receive a Light Fight map and voting form to pick their favorites, and category winners ... 11/30/2025

2025 has been a remarkable year for Real Estate Partners, and I’m grateful to share that our team has officially surpassed our annual goals here in Central Mississippi.What makes this milestone meaningful isn’t the number itself — it’s the people behind it.I want to take a moment to acknowledge the outstanding professionals who made this possible:My dedicated agents —Alton Files, Steve Craft, Tainaya Williams, and Arnetta Smith — each of you has gone above and beyond this year. Your commitment to serving clients, adapting to challenges, and elevating your craft shows in every transaction. I’m proud to work alongside you.To the many cooperating agents who worked with us throughout the year — thank you. Every smooth closing, every professional negotiation, every collaboration is appreciat... 11/29/2025

Bundle Up, Show Up, and Let the Holiday Magic Begin!Canyon Creek, get ready, our annual Winter Festival is sliding into the season on Saturday, December 6th, and you won’t want to miss a single sparkling moment!u When: Saturday, December 6thu Time: 3:00 - 5:00 PMu Where: Canyon Creek Community PoolStep into an afternoon filled with festive cheer and holiday enchantment! Here’s a peek at what’s waiting for you:u Winter Fair and more surprises to delight all agesu Carriage rides to whisk you into the magic of the seasonu Live music to keep the holiday spirit hummingu Pictures with Santa because no winter wonderland is complete without the big guy!                                                                                                                                                ... 11/29/2025

Auburn University Graduation Day 🎓 or Opelika’s Christmas in a Railroad Town 🎄?When it comes to celebrating local pride, Auburn and Opelika, Alabama know how to do it right. Few weekends capture the spirit of these twin communities like Auburn University graduation day and Opelika’s Christmas in a Railroad Town—two events that highlight everything special about living in this corner of East Alabama.In Auburn, graduation day is pure joy and nostalgia. Families fill Auburn University, graduates take photos under Samford Hall, and the sound of the fight song echoes across Jordan-Hare Stadium. Restaurants downtown buzz with laughter, and proud parents beam as their Tigers move their tassels and head into a new chapter.Meanwhile, just down the road, Opelika transforms into a Hallmark-style w... 11/29/2025

Late-Night Waffle House 🍳 or Early Morning Big Blue Bagel 🥯?If you’ve ever lived in Auburn, Alabama, you know the real late-night debate isn’t just about football or game-day parking—it’s whether to grab a plate of hash browns at Waffle House or an everything bagel from Big Blue Bagel the next morning. This classic Auburn question is practically a rite of passage for anyone connected to Auburn University and downtown life. Whether you’re studying late, celebrating a Tiger win, or up early house-hunting near campus, both spots have their loyal fans. Waffle House is the go-to for those late-night cravings—open 24/7, buzzing with students and locals swapping stories under that familiar yellow glow. Meanwhile, Big Blue Bagel offers the morning-after comfort: a warm bagel sandwich, coffee, a... 11/29/2025

Uber and Joby Aviation have partnered and have created air taxis.   You will be able to book an air taxi through the Uber app, and the system will include a ground "Uber" ride to a vertiport, where you will then board the air taxi.About the Aircraft - The EVTOL aircraft are designed to take off and land vertically like a helicopter and then transition to forward flight.  They are intended to be quieter, safer, and more energy-efficient than traditional helicopters.Performance - These Joby air taxis are designed to carry up to four passengers, have a range of about 100 miles, and can travel at speeds of up to 200 mph.Timeline - Joby aims to launch commercial operations in Dubai in 2026 and plans to expand to other cities such as New York and Los Angeles, with initial rides likely to star... 11/29/2025

Spots Open on Montgomery Cares Program Advisory BoardCounty Executive Marc Elrich is seeking applicants to fill 11 vacancies on the Montgomery Cares Program Advisory Board. The Montgomery Cares rogram is a group of community-based health care providers that provide medical care to uninsured adults in Montgomery County. The program offers medical check-ups, sick visits with a doctor/nurse, medications, lab tests, x-rays, access to specialists, oral health care, and participation in other health programs.Needed for the board are one community health care provider that participates in the program, one representative of a hospital that participates in the program, four people with knowledge and experience with issues relating to health care for the uninsured, three members of the public, an... 11/28/2025

Building Performance Improvement Board OpeningsPassed in 2022, Building Energy Performance Standards, or BEPS, are policies that set performance levels for buildings and require all covered buildings to meet these levels over time, with progress measured at regular intervals. The Building Performance Improvement Board oversees the implementation of the policies and recommends changes.The board is particularly seeking owners or managers of multifamily residential buildings with market-rate units, nonprofit building owners or managers, and representatives of nonprofit organizations focused on climate action, resiliency, public health, green building, economic development, or building decarbonization. Technical building design and operations professionals are also encouraged to apply for t... 12/02/2025

Teens Called to Create Life-Saving MessagesThe Montgomery County State’s Attorney’s Office invites middle and high schoolers who live in, or attend school in, Montgomery County, to participate in the “Speak Up, Save a Life” video contest. Create an original PSA about the dangers of opioids and fentanyl for a chance to win prizes up to $5,000. Winners will be announced at the “Save a Student Summit” on Jan. 31, 2026. Participants can also earn 10 SSL hours. The deadline for entries has been extended to Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026.Click here to visit the websiteThis is a Montgomery County, Maryland announcement Autumn Colors, Squash Blossom, Kentlands Photowalk,Gaithersburg, Maryland USA IMG 0146Canon PowerShot G11 CameraPhotograph by Roy KelleyRoy and Dolores Kelley Photographs 12/06/2025

Montgomery County New Bag LawMontgomery County’s amended Bring Your Own Bag law goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2026. The amended law changes the County’s current rules on plastic and paper carryout bags.The most significant changes include an increase in the bag tax to 10 cents, of which retailers keep five cents, and a prohibition on the use of plastic carryout bags. Some businesses in certain municipalities within Montgomery County are exempt from the plastic bag prohibition.The law aims to reduce waste, protect waterways, and encourage residents to bring their own reusable bags when shopping.Click here to visit the website.This is a Montgomery County, Maryland announcement. Gazania, Asteraceae, Kentlands Photowalk,Gaithersburg, Maryland USA IMG 0657 ACanon PowerShot G11 CameraPhotograph... 12/04/2025

Montgomery County Sets Records for Minority and Local Business ContractsMontgomery County’s Office of Procurement reported record awards in its Fiscal Year 2025 annual reports for the Minority, Female, and Disabled-Owned Business Program (MFD), and the Local Small Business Reserve Program (LSBRP). Certified MFD businesses received $274 million in contracts, representing 21.21% of the total eligible dollars, $1,292,084,215. This marks a 10% increase in dollars from last year and directs more than a quarter of a billion dollars in contract spending. For the third consecutive year, the MFD program has set a record for the total dollar amount awarded to certified vendors.Click here to read the press release.This is a Montgomery County, Maryland announcement. Gerbera Daisy, Tangerine, Kentla... 12/03/2025

Redevelopment of Lakeforest Transit CenterMontgomery County Executive Marc Elrich, Maryland State Delegate Julie Palakovich Carr, and County Councilmembers, including Marilyn Balcombe, Sidney Katz, Dawn Luedtke, and Laurie-Anne Sayles joined Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) Director Chris Conklin, WRS Inc. Real Estate Investments Principal Kevin Rogers, and other community leaders for a ceremony to mark the first phase of a partnership between the County and WRS Inc. Real Estate Investments to relocate and redevelop the Lakeforest Transit Center at the Lakeforest Mall site in Gaithersburg. The new transit center is part of a plan to transform the closed Lakeforest Mall into a mixed-use development that will support residential housing, entertainment, shopping, and ... 12/02/2025

Edmonds Farmers MarketIf you’re researching the Edmonds farmers market, you’re probably interested in more than fresh produce—you’re exploring a community that understands how weekend rituals, local growers, and real conversation shape quality of life. Buyers moving from Bellevue, Seattle, or the Eastside often ask what makes Edmonds special, and the farmers market is usually the first answer. It’s not simply a place to shop; it’s a gathering ground where residents meet neighbors, support artisans, and slow down long enough to enjoy the waterfront breeze.As a local realtor working with clients moving from Bellevue to Snohomish County, I’ve seen how the market becomes a deciding factor for homebuyers. It reflects values: sustainability, connection, and local ownership. Those who fall in ... 12/08/2025

Luxury Living Tubac Country ClubIf you’re exploring luxury living Tubac Country Club, you’re likely looking for more than a new home—you’re searching for a lifestyle. Tubac Country Club sits in one of Southern Arizona’s most well-kept secrets, a community built around old-world charm, wide grass fairways, adobe architecture, and striking mountain views. As a local realtor, I’ve seen buyers from Scottsdale, Tucson, and even the Northeast fall in love with Tubac not because it tries to be flashy, but because it cultivates luxury that feels authentic, grounded, and timeless.A Community Rooted in History and ComfortLuxury here is not about high-rise penthouses or crowded clubhouses. Tubac grew from an artist’s village and a historic Spanish settlement. The streets are deliberate. Homes are ... 12/08/2025