Local News and Events

Soccer Stars and Fans Are Falling in Love with America  From the moment international soccer teams and fans arrived in the United States, their admiration for America began shining bright. Discovering for themselves the amazing country that has been consistently shown to them in a bad light by legacy media. They are positively beaming from their in-person experiences.  They realize now what makes our country special, the sports stadiums, warm hospitality, incredible food and the unmistakable freedom plus opportunity for all. It's a celebration of what unites us through the spirit of the game.  We have hosted a group from Scotland and England at our home who were also very impressed with America. Words often failed them but their SMILES said it all!   Lionel Messi has embraced it fully s... 06/19/2026

One of my favorite things about Madison County is that there's always something happening that brings people together. From local farmers markets to family festivals and community gatherings, these events help make Berea and Richmond more than just great places to buy a home, they're places where neighbors become friends.This weekend, residents have several opportunities to get out and enjoy everything our community offers.The Berea Farmers Market on Saturday morning is a wonderful place to support local growers and makers while enjoying fresh seasonal products.Car enthusiasts can spend Saturday afternoon at the Buffalo Wild Wings Car Show, where classic and custom vehicles create a fun atmosphere for all ages.Families looking for entertainment won't want to miss Summer Fest, featuring ... 06/19/2026

Wind Phone Honors Local Community MemberA new Wind Phone has been installed in Kentlands, offering a peaceful space to reflect, remember, and connect with loved ones who have passed. The idea was brought forward by community member Meaghann Diez, who wished to honor her late daughter, Hailey. Wind Phones are simple, disconnected telephones placed in peaceful outdoor settings. Originating in Japan in 2010, they give people a private way to share memories, speak from the heart, and process grief. Click here to read the press release.This is a City of Gaithersburg, Maryland announcement. Phalaenopsis Orchids, 'Moth Orchids', Longwood Gardens,Kennett Square, Pennsylvania USA IMG 2838Canon PowerShot G11 CameraPhotograph by Roy KelleyRoy and Dolores Kelley Photographs 06/27/2026

 When I first started exploring options for my next chapter, Naples, Florida, quickly caught my attention. It’s not just a place to live; it’s a lifestyle. If you’re considering a move to a place that offers luxury, comfort, and endless sunshine, Naples should be at the top of your list. Let me walk you through why so many are choosing this gem on the Gulf Coast for their retirement years.Embracing the Naples Retiree Lifestyle: What Makes It So Special?Naples offers a unique blend of upscale living and natural beauty that’s hard to beat. Imagine waking up to warm breezes and spending your days on pristine beaches or exploring vibrant cultural scenes. The city is known for its luxury homes, world-class golf courses, and a welcoming community that values both relaxation and activity.One o... 06/19/2026

Maryland SUN BucksEnrollment in SUN Bucks for Summer 2026 is now open! Maryland SUN Bucks helps families with school-aged children who receive free or reduced-price meals buy groceries during the summer break when school meals are unavailable. Families who qualify for the Maryland SUN Bucks program will receive $40 for June, July, and August (a total of $120) for each eligible student. If you have any questions, call 1-800-332-6347 and select the Maryland SUN Bucks option. Learn more.This is a Montgomery County, Maryland announcement. Bonaire Wind Hibiscus, Longwood Gardens,Kennett Square, Pennsylvania USA IMG 2816Canon PowerShot G11 Camera, f/4.0, 1/500 sec., ISO-80, 21 mm, No FlashPhotograph by Roy KelleyRoy and Dolores Kelley Photographs 06/20/2026

Winners of the Annual ‘Girl Power Contest’ The Montgomery County Commission for Women recently announced the winners of its ninth annual “Girl Power Contest,” which encourages residents to celebrate women’s achievements and share their perspectives in recognition of Women’s History Month. This year’s top winners are Ada Ahuja-VanTassel, Kalyani Mishra, Eliana Cortez, and Natalie Jean.The annual contest highlights the impact of women and girls in Montgomery County and beyond.Click here to read the press release.This is a Montgomery County, Maryland announcement.  Tulips, Longwood Gardens Photowalk, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania USA IMG 4442Canon PowerShot G11 CameraPhotograph by Roy KelleyRoy and Dolores Kelley Photographs   06/24/2026

Silver Spring Blues Festival Returns Saturday, June 20Celebrate blues music in downtown Silver Spring during the 17th Annual Silver Spring Blues Festival from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, June 20. The free festival will feature nationally and regionally recognized performers, including Mud Morganfield, son of legendary blues musician Muddy Waters.Additional performers include The Daryl Davis Chicago Blues Band, Soul Crackers featuring Tommy Lepson, Cathy Ponton King, Nella B & the Noise, and others.The festival is the final event of Silver Spring Blues Week, which includes live performances and events throughout the week. There is still time to enjoy a performance by Carly Harvey, Washington, D.C.’s “Queen of the Blues” and a former contestant on NBC’s The Voice, at the United Therap... 06/19/2026

 Contracting Opportunities for Women-Owned & Veteran-Owned BusinessesMontgomery County is making it easier for women-owned and veteran-owned businesses to compete for County contracts.Beginning Wednesday, July 1, the County will recognize additional federal and state certifications, including the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Women-Owned Small Business, Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business, and Maryland’s Veteran-Owned Small Business Enterprise certifications.The change reduces barriers for businesses by allowing them to use certifications they have already earned while expanding access to County contracting opportunities.Click here to learn more.This is a Montgomery County, Maryland announcement. Tulips, Longwood Gardens Photowalk,Kennett Square, Pennsylvania US... 06/23/2026

Homes for Sale Auburn: Backyard BBQ or Restaurant for July 4th?If you’re searching for homes for sale Auburn, houses for sale Auburn, homes for sale Opelika, or looking for advice from top Auburn and Opelika Realtors, here’s a fun July 4th question:Are you firing up the grill at home or letting somebody else do the cooking?For many people, the answer says a lot about the type of home they want.Some buyers dream about a backyard built for entertaining. Others prefer low-maintenance living and spending their free time enjoying local restaurants instead of mowing grass and cleaning patios.As someone who has lived in the Auburn area since 1988 and has been a REALTOR® for over 20 years, I’ve seen both lifestyles become very popular.Why Backyard BBQ Lovers Prioritize Outdoor SpaceMany buyers ... 06/19/2026

The Slow Death of Kalamazoo: Stagnation Disguised as ProgressFor decades, Kalamazoo’s success was built on something remarkably simple: Individuals took risks.A mechanic opened a machine shop. An investor bought a neglected building and fixed it up. A chef opened a neighborhood restaurant. Someone saw an opportunity where others saw a problem, and they risked their own capital to build it. That organic process is called a free market.Today, City Hall is quietly replacing that dynamic engine with an ideological agenda. They don't call it socialism. They use a much slicker, academic term whispered in planning commission meetings:"Decommodifying Kalamazoo."It sounds noble, but the reality on the ground is predatory. It is the steady replacement of private enterprise with absolute administr... 06/18/2026

Where to Watch the World Cup in Pacifica?A question recently came up in one of our local community groups about where to find the best spots around town (Pacifica, CA) to catch the World Cup games. As a fellow resident who loves seeing our community come together for major events, I wanted to pull together a quick guide to help everyone out!While I want to share these local spots as a community resource, please note that this isn't an official endorsement of any specific business, just a helpful starting point to see where neighbors might be gathering to watch the tournament.Here are several local restaurants, breweries, and gathering spots around Pacifica where you can catch World Cup matches. Because match times vary, it’s always a good idea to contact them directly to confirm specifi... 06/18/2026

Seattle Mariners Filipino Heritage Night Is Back. Here's How to Make the Most of It.Filipino Heritage Night at T-Mobile Park is this Saturday, June 20, 2026. First pitch is 7:10 PM, and the Mariners host the Boston Red Sox. Tickets are still available, and every ticket purchased through the Filipino Community of Seattle ticket offer includes an exclusive Mariners-themed Filipino Heritage Windbreaker.One thing first, because it matters more than anything else here: tickets must be bought by Friday, June 19 at 5:00 PM, online only. They are not sold at the Team Store or the box office. If you want in, today or tomorrow is the window.Here's what you need to know before Saturday.The detailsDate: Saturday, June 20, 2026First pitch: 7:10 PM (FCS lists the event window as 7:10 PM to 10:10 PM)O... 06/18/2026

Summer is a time for family gatherings, vacations, lake days, and making memories. Unfortunately, it can also be a season of tragedy when safety precautions are overlooked.Recently, a heartbreaking accident occurred at a local lake after heavy rains, resulting in the loss of several young lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this unimaginable tragedy.As we head into the busy summer season—and especially with the July 4th holiday approaching—please take a few extra moments to think about safety:Never leave children unattended near water. Make sure everyone wears a properly fitted life jacket when boating or swimming in open water. Be aware that lakes, rivers, and streams can have strong currents and hidden dangers, especially after heavy rainfall. Never mix alcoh... 06/18/2026

Call Or Text For My Free Report Now: 850-476-4494Strong schools. Strong community. Bright futures. Pensacola isn’t just a place to live — it’s a place to grow. Families here value education, connection, and opportunity, and our local schools deliver all three.These top‑rated schools are helping shape the next generation of Gulf Coast leaders: 🏫 Pensacola High School — A+ Rated 📚 Pine Forest High School — A Rated 🎓 Beulah High School — A Rated 👩‍🏫 Workman Middle School — A Rated ✏️ Montclair Elementary — A RatedWhen you’re buying or selling, school zones matter — and homes near strong schools often move faster and hold their value longer.If you’re thinking about making a move in Pensacola, Pace, or Gulf Breeze, I’ll help you position your home or find the right neighborhood for your fami... 06/19/2026

According to a recent report, the IRS has lost more than 20,000 employees over the last year.  That's more than 20% of its workforce.  Even more concerning, the divisions responsible for processing tax returns and helping taxpayers have lost over 8,000 employees.On February  22nd, 2026, the IRS reassigned employees from departments like Human Resources and Information Technology to answer taxpayer phone calls and help process returns.  Many of these employees have little or no experience working directly with tax issues.  This assignment was for 120 days. That would be like reassigning me to teach and answer biology questions.  The only reason I passed biology is that the professor had a "study" session before each test where he told us the questions and the answers.  I cannot wrap my b... 06/24/2026

Thankful Thursdays…For Vision From Another’s Eyes To say that external forces have encouraged divisiveness among the people in our country would be an understatement.  However, this is NOT a political post.   While I couldn’t begin to explain soccer to you, I’ve been watching the World Cup. One of the venues is in Houston, so there’s a bit of local pride involved. The only true voyage of discovery, the only fountain of Eternal Youth, would be not to visit strange lands but to possess other eyes, to behold the universe through the eyes of another.Marcel Proust While the soccer matches have captured much of the attention, one of the most pleasant surprises has been watching the reaction of visitors to our country. Through posts on Instagram and X, as well as news reports, we've been given... 06/18/2026

What does Pagdiriwang turning 40 mean for Filipinos in Seattle?Forty years. Same festival, same volunteers, no payday, no quit. That is not luck, kababayan. That is the long game, played on purpose.This June, Pagdiriwang hit its 40th year at Seattle Center. By the organizers' own count, it is the largest Filipino arts and culture festival in the Pacific Northwest, and it runs start to finish on volunteer hands. No corporate engine. No paid cast. Just a community that decided four decades ago its culture was worth the work, and then showed up to prove it every single year.So the festival is the highlight reel. The harder question, the one I want to sit with, is what we build next.Here is the board, move by move: 1987: The Filipino Cultural Heritage Society of Washington presents the firs... 06/17/2026

Score Big On Summer Fun At Ballantyne Village This Weekend... ... With A FIFA World Cup Watch Party & A Pop-up Market Mark your calendar for this Saturday, June 20th from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Ballantyne Village is combining FIFA World Cup excitement at Blackfinn Ameripub  with one of South Charlotte's favorite Pop-Up Markets, making it an easy way to enjoy an afternoon of soccer, shopping, local vendors, outdoor bar🍹, and live music🎶. Ballantyne Village is located at 14825 Ballantyne Village Way at the corner of Johnston Road and Ballantyne Commons Parkway. Catch World Cup Matches⚽There's something special about watching soccer surrounded by fellow fans. Every save, every goal and every last-minute finish feels even bigger when the room erupts together. If you're looking for that kin... 06/19/2026

Wordless Wednesday…A Short and Precious Life The downside of caring for our bluebirds is that you end up caring for them. For Larry and me, this is true for all of God’s creatures we see. (except for snakes)The bluebird chicks fledged on Sunday. We could tell they were ready to meet the world. All 4 had grown so much and were scrambling to test their wings. Three of the chicks flew out and up, immediately…one at a time…up, up, and away!!!                                                                         The empty nestBut there was the fourth bluebird chick. Now that his 3  siblings fledged,  there was a lot more room to spread his wings.  He had the box all to himself. However, at the urging of his parents, baby bluebird left the only home he’d known for parts unknown.  However, t... 06/17/2026

Main Line and Chester County Homes NewsletterHello,Summer has arrived, school is out, vacations are underway, and many homeowners are asking the same question:"What has changed in the real estate market this year—and what hasn't?"As we approach the halfway point of 2026, there are certainly some shifts worth noting, but there are also several fundamentals that remain remarkably consistent.What Has Changed in the Real Estate Market?Buyers Are More DeliberateToday's buyers are taking more time before making offers. They're comparing options, paying attention to condition, and looking carefully at long-term value.While well-priced homes continue to attract strong interest, buyers are less likely to overlook deferred maintenance or pricing that doesn't align with the market.Inventory Has Im... 06/18/2026