Local News and Events

Yesterday the DIRT ROAD REAL ESTATE work family, met out on the west side of Oatman, AZ on old Route 66 to participate in an annual Oatman Christmas event. Each Christmas holiday season, individuals and small businesses are encouraged to decorate a tree or bush with Christmas decorations.  The registration funds are designated to feed the wild burros (donkeys).For those not familiar with Oatman, AZ, this old , historic mining town has numerous wild burros, will actually tamed burros, that freely roam the streets and sidewalk. These burros today are the descendants from the original burros the miners brought in the 1800's. Each entry is judged, and the winner is acknowledged.I believe the efforts of the DIRT ROAD REAL ESTATE work family showed creativity as well as a uniqueness.  There w... 12/04/2024

One of my absolute favorite December traditions is the Austin PT50 “Wrappy Hour,” an inspiring event sponsored by Independence Title to support Austin Angels, a non-profit benefiting the foster children they serve. This heartwarming gathering is all about spreading holiday cheer, one beautifully wrapped gift at a time! Attendees bring gifts for the children, and Independence Title provides everything needed to transform them into festive surprises—wrapping paper, bows, bags, and more. It's incredible to see everyone’s creativity on display as they put their personal touch on each present, knowing it will bring joy to a deserving child. Many of us from the office make it a priority to attend because the holiday spirit is so alive; I love the vibe! The room buzzes with laughter, goodwill... 12/07/2024

Why are People 👫👨‍👧🤵Moving to South Florida … Because it is 🏖 ⛱ Paradise in the Winter. Absolutely Magical with: ❄ ⛄No Cold Weather🏔 ❄ No Snow Shoveling⛄🧊No Ice ScrapingWinter Weather in 🌴South Florida 🌴 is generally dry and sunny. 🌞 ☀ It is usually still warm, in the 60s-70s, with the occasional “cold front.” Looking for your South Florida dream home? 🏡🏘Whether you are looking for a single-family home, a condo, or townhome give Kathy Hyatt and her Team at RE/MAX a call at 954-347-0244 and visit: www.HyattRealtors.com .#SouthFlorida #SouthFloridaWeather #ParadiseinSouthFlorida #WinterParadise #RemaxKat #RealEstateKat #RockStarKat #RockStarRealtor #KathyHyatt #KathyHyattSellsPlantation #KathyHyattRealtor #PlantationFlorida #SunriseFlorida #DavieFlorida #HyattRealtors #CooperCityFlorida #... 12/03/2024

The 5th Annual EPIK Jolly Jeep Journey Dec 7th 2024A highlight of the Holiday Season in Catonsville is the Annual EPIK Jolly Jeep Journey. This Annual event is coordinated and organized by EPIK Home Group of Keller Williams, one of 8 events (mostly community fundraisers) hosted throughout the calendar year.How it started. In December of 2020, during COVID, over 50 Jeep owners safely decorated their vehicle and joined with Santa and Mrs Claus to bring the Christmas cheer to residents of many Catonsville nursing homes and the Children's Home. It was a beautiful sight. Here was the news coverage https://bit.ly/WBALJeepCaravanCoverage2020All the Jeeps meet at CAA Park in the heart of Catonsville. While it is only limited to Jeeps, the community are invited to view the vehicles while station... 12/03/2024

HOA Fees Are On the Rise—Does It Make Sense to Buy a Home With Monthly Dues?By Charles Stallions, Your Trusted Real Estate Expert in Pensacola, FLYou’re browsing homes in Pensacola and find one that feels perfect—it’s the right size, in a great location, and within your budget. Then you notice it’s part of a homeowners association (HOA) with $150 monthly dues. Does this change your excitement?Many buyers wrestle with whether to pursue or avoid homes with HOA fees. On one hand, the extra cost can feel burdensome, especially if you’ve been saving diligently. Conversely, HOAs often provide services that enhance the property and community. Let’s dive into the pros and cons to help you decide if an HOA home is the right move for you.Pro: HOAs Enhance Community LivingHOAs are designed to keep... 12/09/2024

  The City of Denver will provide Denver residents with some grand entertainment on Saturday!  The 50th annual Parade of Lights will be held in downtown Denver with a 2-mile route for families to enjoy the lights and sounds of a Holiday parade.     Saturday night - 12/7 Parade will begin at 6 pm       You won’t want to miss the sparkling lights, marching bands, 40+ ornate floats, giant balloons and delightful characters including Major Waddles the Penguin and Santa, as they take to the streets of Downtown.  Spectator viewing for the Parade is free all along the two-mile route or purchase grandstand tickets for seating in front of the City & County Building.   The Parade will last approximately one hour. The weather is expected to be very mild, so not as important to bundle up the kiddos... 12/03/2024

Last night was a magical experience as I joined my oldest granddaughter Hailey, along with her mom and dad, to see Wicked. Let me tell you—it was absolutely phenomenal! The movie is a long one, but every moment felt necessary to unravel this captivating story. The cast delivered amazing performances, bringing Elphaba and Glinda’s journey to life in such a powerful way. For those unfamiliar with the story, Wicked offers a fresh perspective on the classic tale of The Wizard of Oz. It delves into the life of Elphaba, a young woman misunderstood because of her green skin, and her unlikely friendship with Glinda, whose charm and ambition drive her quest for popularity. Their bond is tested after an encounter with the Wizard of Oz, leading them down very different paths.This was only Part 1,... 12/03/2024

Archaeologists Work with Indigenous PeoplesBefore John Smith arrived and even before the glaciers melted to create the Chesapeake Bay, Indigenous Peoples had called the land that is now Maryland home. Indigenous sites in Maryland have been dated as early as 12,000 years ago by archaeologists.Thanks to state and federal grants, a growing relationship with today’s Piscataway descendants, and a strong partnership with Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources, archaeologists and students have been working to uncover the history of Indigenous Peoples in Southern Maryland. Read more.This is a Maryland Department of Natural Resources article. Clematis, Kentlands Photowalk, Gaithersburg, Maryland USA IMG 6076Canon PowerShot G11 CameraPhotograph by Roy KelleyRoy and Dolores Kelley Photographs 12/08/2024

December 14, 2024 is National Wreaths Across America Day   HONOR AMERICA'S FALLEN HEROES ONE WREATH AT A TIME THIS HOLIDAY SEASON   DONATE A WREATH FOR WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA DAY ON DECEMBER 14, 2024   “A person dies twice: once when they take their final breath, and later, the last time their name is spoken.” ... Unknown   December 14, 2024 is National Wreaths Across America Day... you can help ensure that a Christmas remembrance wreath is placed at each fallen veteran's gravesite on December 14th at Arlington National Cemetery and at some 4,600 participating military gravesites around the country, at sea and abroad. You can help by sponsoring a veteran's wreath at a cemetery near you, by volunteering or by donating to a local fundraising group. Each year, the Wreaths Across America or... 12/09/2024

Auburn University’s Annual Tree Lighting CeremonyThe holiday spirit is officially here, and there’s no better way to celebrate than at Auburn University’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony! This beloved tradition brings the Auburn community together every year, spreading joy, warmth, and the magic of the season.A Tradition That Shines BrightThe Auburn University tree lighting, typically held at Samford Lawn, features the lighting of a stunning evergreen tree adorned with thousands of twinkling lights. It’s a perfect event for families, students, and anyone who loves holiday traditions. The ceremony often includes: Festive Performances: Enjoy live music and holiday carols performed by local groups. Special Guests: Past events have featured university leaders or Aubie the Tiger spreading chee... 12/02/2024

HONOR AMERICA'S FALLEN HEROES ONE WREATH AT A TIME THIS HOLIDAY SEASON   DONATE A WREATH FOR WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA DAY ON DECEMBER 14, 2024   “A person dies twice: once when they take their final breath, and later, the last time their name is spoken.” ... Unknown   December 14, 2024 is National Wreaths Across America Day... you can help ensure that a Christmas remembrance wreath is placed at each fallen veteran's gravesite on December 14th at Arlington National Cemetery and at some 4,600 participating military gravesites around the country, at sea and abroad. You can help by sponsoring a veteran's wreath at a cemetery near you, by volunteering or by donating to a local fundraising group. Each year, the Wreaths Across America organization lays millions of wreaths at military gravesites... 12/02/2024

🌵Events in the East Valley ~ 12-9-24 ☀️For ALL of Your East Valley AZ Real Estate Needs📞Call or 🙋‍♂Text Brian at 480-773-2370📨Email Brian  ~  Search the MLS for FREE Riparian After Dark 2024The Riparian Preserve comes alive with a holiday glow during Gilbert's annual Riparian After Dark event presented by Sundt/PCL, A Joint Venture and BMW. Stroll around the 1.5 miles of trails and walkways that weave through the park and enjoy thousands of holiday lights and displays.  To learn more about this event, click HERE. I specialize in the East Valley of the Phoenix Metro area - Gilbert, Mesa, Chandler, Tempe, Scottsdale, Apache Junction, and Gold Canyon☀️For ALL of Your East Valley AZ Real Estate Needs📞Call or 🙋‍♂Text Brian at 480-773-2370📨Email Brian  ~  Search the MLS for FREE 12/09/2024

We hope everyone enjoyed time with their loved ones on Thanksgiving. Now it's time to focus on the next big holiday: Christmas. We ask that you continue the good cheer for those less fortunate in our community by participating in the 13th annual Ventura Can-Tree event.What: Ventura Can-Tree 2024Where: Figueroa Plaza, Downtown VenturaWhen: December 5th to 9thContact: Food Share of Ventura (805) 983-7100Ventura Can-Tree 2024According to the County of Ventura's Human Services Agency, more than 70,000 people in Ventura County experience food insecurity each and every day. Our food pantries have seen an uptick in people who come to their facilities for assistance. Now in it's 13th year, Food Share Ventura's Can-Tree event offers a fun way to help feed people during the holiday season.How You... 12/02/2024

HONOR AMERICA'S FALLEN HEROES ONE WREATH AT A TIME THIS HOLIDAY SEASON DONATE A WREATH FOR WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA DAY ON DECEMBER 14, 2024 “A person dies twice: once when they take their final breath, and later, the last time their name is spoken.”... Unknown December 14, 2024 is National Wreaths Across America Day... you can help ensure that a Christmas remembrance wreath is placed at each fallen veteran's gravesite on December 14th at Arlington National Cemetery and at some 4,600 participating military gravesites around the country, at sea and abroad. You can help by sponsoring a veteran's wreath at a cemetery near you, by volunteering or by donating to a local fundraising group. Each year, the Wreaths Across America organization lays millions of wreaths at military gravesites. Each t... 12/02/2024

Open select evenings Nov. 21, 2024 - Jan. 5, 2025 Featuring more than one million lights, the Arboretum’s annual Winter Lights walking tour transforms the gardens into an illuminated wonderland with nature-themed light displays at every turn. Click HERE for more information.   Winter Live   Music Series     Reserve  Tickets Here   Event Rides  by SW Transit 12/01/2024

Receiving an IRS audit notice can feel overwhelming, but your steps will depend on the type of audit: correspondence, office, or field. Each requires a tailored approach, and professional representation is especially helpful in avoiding common missteps, like saying too much during in-person meetings.Correspondence Audit: Respond by MailThis is the simplest type of audit, conducted entirely through mail and focused on a specific item. Read the Notice: Identify the issue and deadline. Focus only on the requested items. Gather Documents: Collect records, such as W-2s, 1099s, or receipts, that address the IRS's concerns. Respond Clearly: Write a concise cover letter explaining your position on each issue. Include supporting documents, and send everything by certified mail. Office Audit: Let... 12/03/2024

  This year's Thanksgiving festivities were spent with a good friend.   We got a smoked turkey but still, many smaller turkeys were difficult to find, so many households have a refrigerator full of leftovers!   How long should these leftovers be kept?   The experts say - only 3-4 days!    Don't use the smell test, on Sunday, either put them in the freezer, or toss them.    You don't want any bacteria to ruin the week for you!   So, if you have leftovers on Sunday --- TOSS THEM, OR put them in the freezer!   Joan CoxBroker/Owner, REALTOR®House to Home, Inc. Serving the Denver Metro area including all suburbs Helping Buyers and Sellers achieve their real estate dreams, one house at a time! LinkedIn  |  Facebook  |  YouTubeAbout Me  |   My Blog       My Website 720-231-6373   Call or Text... 12/01/2024

🥗Catholic Charities - Unaccompanied Minor Foster Care☀️For ALL of Your East Valley AZ Real Estate Needs📞Call or 🙋‍♂Text Brian at 480-773-2370📨Email Brian  ~  Search the MLS for FREEInspired 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.Unaccompanied Minors are foreign-born children in the United States without parents or legal guardians. This program differs from traditional foster care in that it provides a unique supportive environment for both the foster family and the unaccompanied refugee minors. Their support system includes mentors, case managers, former unaccompanied youth, volunteers... 12/08/2024

 This year's Thanksgiving festivities were spent with a good friend.   We got a smoked turkey but still, many smaller turkeys were difficult to find, so many households have a refrigerator full of leftovers! How long should these leftovers be kept?   The experts say - only 3-4 days!    Don't use the smell test, on Sunday, either put them in the freezer, or toss them.    You don't want any bacteria to ruin the week for you! So, if you have leftovers on Sunday --- TOSS THEM, OR put them in the freezer!  12/01/2024

We have always supported small businesses, not just on the official "Small Saturdays", but all year long. Thanks to John Pusa  he reminded me that Vroman's celebrated their 130th year in business. How incredible is that? Now we could not go when the actual celebration was during the middle of the week, but we were thrilled to come our first opportunity.Now if you are wondering, we have been supporting Vroman's for about 26 years. Yes, today Diane bought not just a couple of books, but various celebration cards, like Birthdays and other special occasions. She even managed to find a few Christmas - presents for our friends. Personally, I refrained with extra ordinary willpower not to buy the latest Jack Peppin cookbook.The best part was we bought Holly along in her stroller and as every t... 11/30/2024