Local News and Events

"Explore and Unwind: The Ultimate Guide to Fun Things to Do in Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze, Florida"Introduction: Welcome to the picturesque paradise of Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze, Florida! Nestled along the Gulf Coast, this charming region offers a plethora of exciting activities and attractions for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or thrill-seeker, there's something for everyone. Join us as we explore the top fun things to do in this vibrant area. Sun, Sand, and Sea: Pensacola Beach Kick off your adventure with a visit to the renowned Pensacola Beach. Sink your toes into the sugar-white sands, bask in the warm Florida sun, and take a refreshing dip in the emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Pensacola Beach is a haven for b... 11/18/2023

Nestled along the picturesque shores of the Florida Panhandle, Gulf Breeze is a hidden gem that offers residents a taste of paradise every day. With its stunning natural beauty, thriving community, and idyllic coastal lifestyle, living in Gulf Breeze is a dream come true for many.Natural BeautyOne of Gulf Breeze's most captivating features is its natural beauty. The city is situated on a narrow strip of land between Pensacola Bay and the Santa Rosa Sound, providing its residents with easy access to breathtaking water views. Gulf Islands National Seashore, a protected area with pristine beaches and wildlife, is a paradise for nature lovers.For those who enjoy outdoor adventures, the city offers numerous parks, nature trails, and recreational areas. Gulf Breeze is also home to the Gulf Is... 11/17/2023

Charter Review Commission Seeks Input The Montgomery County Charter Review Commission is soliciting public comments on what matters the commission should consider for possible revisions to the County’s Charter.The County Charter is the constitutional framework for the County Government. The County Council, in coordination with the County Executive, appoints the 11-member, bi-partisan, Charter Review Commission to study the County Charter and recommend changes. The Council appointed new commission members in July 2023.The commission is required to submit a report to the County Council on its activities in every even-numbered year, on or before May 1. The report must include the commission’s recommendations for possible Charter revisions, if any. Those recommendations can lead to proposed... 11/26/2023

Gaithersburg Recognized as a Top Arts-Vibrant Community SMU Data Arts named the City of Gaithersburg, along with Frederick and Rockville, the seventh most vibrant arts community in the Top 20 Large Communities category. The vibrancy assessment covers aspects of supply, demand, and public support for arts and culture using a data-driven approach. The Gaithersburg-Frederick-Rockville community scored in the top 1% of measures related to contributed revenue and total compensation paid to those working in arts and culture.Read more here.This is a City of Gaithersburg, Maryland announcement. Gazania, Kentlands Photowalk, Gaithersburg, Maryland USA IMG 0134Canon PowerShot G11 CameraPhotograph by Roy KelleyRoy and Dolores Kelley Photographs 11/18/2023

It's breakfast time and time for a burrito, where do you go?Well, if you live in North Phoenix, the options are plentiful and I thought it was time to tally the results of the best North Phoenix breakfast burrito. Have you been to any of the winners? Where is your favorite? Drop a comment below and let me know.Blair P.S. If you want to join our FB Group, click the link. It is called Living North Phoenix. 11/13/2023

2023 Holiday Showcase Makers Market ~ December 2 in Carlsbad Village ~ The 2023 Holiday Showcase Makers Market takes place on Saturday December 2nd from 9 am until 4 pm. This is the 7th annual event. The Holiday Makers Market has been a popular event in Carlsbad Village for a number of years. Because of popularity the Makers Market has expanded, and now includes multiple events during the year, along with the special one at holiday time. The Holiday Showcase Makers Market is FREE to attend. Certainly you’ll want to bring credit cards or cash for your holiday shopping. And don’t forget you can #ShopSmall at Small Business Saturday in the Village on November 25th Thanksgiving weekend. The Makers Market is held outdoors at St. Michael’s By-the-Sea Episcopal Church. The Church is located at... 11/13/2023

Winter Lights Discount Tickets and Leashes ‘n’ Lights  The Winter Lights Festival at Seneca Creek State Park will be open nightly November 24 through December 31 (closed on December 25). Tickets must be purchased in advance and are only good for the specific date listed on the ticket. Donate to the City’s Holiday Giving Program and save on your admission. Visit Winter Lights for only $10 per car from November 27 through November 30. Purchase discounted tickets online, and bring donations of new children’s winter hats, gloves, and scarves to the check-in station when you arrive. Purchase tickets here. Treat your pooch to a leisurely 1-mile stroll or an invigorating 3-mile walk at Leashes ‘n’ Lights on Monday, November 20 from 6 - 9 p.m. Purchase tickets here.  This is a City of Gaithersb... 11/18/2023

Diwali or Deepavali is the Indian Festival of Lights. While a Hindu festival, it is celebrated throughout India and the world by many people connected to the Indian culture. It is a celebration of the victory of light over darkness.People celebrate by cleaning and then decorating their homes with lights, candles and diyas (oil lamps), as well as rangoli (designs made of flour and/or colorful flowers). It is also a time to wear new clothes (both traditional and modern).Lighting the divas or lamps symbolize purity and goodness, as well as good luck. Children enjoy lighting crackers and sparklers as well as other fireworks. Fireworks are meant to "scare off" bad spirits. People exchange gifts and visit each other to spread the joy. Another important element is engaging in charitable acts a... 11/12/2023

The Cantonment Rotary Club, a dynamic and influential organization, has been a driving force for positive change in the local community for several decades. Founded on the principles of service, leadership, and fellowship, this Rotary Club has consistently made a significant impact on the Cantonment region and beyond.A Rich History:The Cantonment Rotary Club has a rich history dating back to its establishment in [year of founding]. Since then, it has continued to grow and evolve while staying true to its core mission: "Service Above Self." The club's commitment to service is evident in the countless projects and initiatives it has spearheaded over the years.The Transformative Power of Giving: A Thousand Reasons to Donate to the Rotary FoundationIntroduction:In a world grappling with myr... 11/14/2023

Holiday Barket in Bethesda, Nov. 18Get ready for a pawsome Holiday Barket at Cabin John Regional Park, Bethesda on November 18, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.! Enjoy live music, pet-themed shopping, and a Grinch photo booth with your furry friend. Free event! Don't miss this festive fun! More info: https://ow.ly/ISts50Q8v5NThis is a Montgomery County, Maryland announcement. Dahlia, Crazy Mary, National Capital Dahlia Society Show, Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, Maryland USA IMG 2953Canon PowerShot G11 CameraPhotograph by Roy KelleyRoy and Dolores Kelley Photographs 11/17/2023

Keali'i Reichel at the Blue NoteThursday, November 16th -19th, 2023 , 6:30pmKeali‘i Reichel has been at the forefront in the revival and perpetuation of Hawaiian culture. He is a world class performer, best-selling recording artist, multiple award-winning kumu hula, prolific composer, renowned chanter, choreographer, dancer, crafter, scholar and teacher.In 2011 he was inducted into the Hawaiian Music Hall of Fame for achievement in all facets of Hawaiian music, chant and hula. He has received Grammy nominations for his 2004 CD Keʻalaokamaile and his 2015 release Kawaiokalena, and 36 Nā Hōkū Hanohano awards over a musical career spanning 25 years.Despite critical acclaim and fame, Kealiʻi is a Kumu Hula at his core.  His commitment to the perpetuation of his ancestor’s teachings and valu... 11/13/2023

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY: NOVEMBER 25THSHOPPING LOCAL IN GREATER CHARLOTTE "In a world where you can shop anywhere, shop local."... robynliechti.com Small Business Saturday is a perfect day to shop and buy local in Greater Charlotte! Sandwiched between Black Friday and Cyber Monday,  Small Business Saturday encourages consumers to shop at their local neighborhood stores all across the nation. In the years since 2010, when Small Business Saturday was first introduced by American Express during the Great Recession, American Express reports that approximately $163 billion has been spent in local businesses in the past 12 years. "Good things come to those who shop local." ... picks&giggles.com Top Reasons To Shop & Buy LocalDid you know that every time you spend $100 at a locally owned busin... 11/13/2023

HAPPY DIWALI! To my clients, friends, and colleagues who celebrate Diwali, may the Festival of Light fill your hearts with happiness and bring you and yours joy, prosperity, peace, and good fortune in the year ahead.  May the sound of firecrackers fill your life with happiness and may the sweets sweeten your relationships. “Allow each lamp you light to bring a smile to your face and to enlighten your soul. Allow the earthen lamp’s flame to cleanse your heart, mind, and soul. May the Diwali lamps brighten your life and the rangoli add more colours to it. May the sound of crackers and sweets bring more glee and cheer. The mirth, merriment, and joy of this divine festival surround you for the rest of your life. Happy Deepavali.”...  Shree Shambav May your Diwali be free from darkness and a... 11/12/2023

Many times, in The Villages there is too much going on and you have to pick and choose which fun event you would like to attend.  That was the case Friday night as I attended Hope for America, Saluting our Veterans and one of my teammates Sheri Whiting attended The Electric Light Party, here is her account of the evening!Where can you find over 1,600 people, many in costumes with glow sticks and neon lights, dancing in the streets? Friday night at Lake Sumter Landing is where! One of The Villages hottest performers, Blonde Ambition Band, commanded the stage with their high-energy party songs, amazing vocals and choreographed dance moves. They were joined by jugglers, costumed dancers and electric lighted drummers to name a few. If you enjoy a high-energy party under the stars, be sure t... 11/12/2023

🌵Events in the East Valley ~ 11-20-23 ☀️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 Holiday Kickoff 2023FREE event, 150 vendors, Santa, handmade vendors, food trucks, FREE family activities.  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 11/20/2023

🥗The Salvation Army - Grassroots Services☀️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 really out there for those in need.When it comes to the needs of different communities, one size definitely doesn’t fit all. That’s why The Salvation Army’s structure allows for each location to meet the very distinct challenges that are faced by the people in its own area. Where homelessness might be particularly troubling in one area, another might be experiencing an increase in drug addiction or h... 11/19/2023

I did it Friday night dinner before 5:00 pm but for a good reason.  Friday night we went to the Hope for America, Saluting our Veterans and knew we needed to be there by 6:00 to get a seat, glad we did.  Looking at dining choices between home and the church that was hosting the event and knowing which restaurants would have quicker service we decided on Tequila Cantina Mexican Kitchen.  When we arrived around 4:30 the place was already starting to fill up and by 5:30 there had to be 25 people outside waiting for a table.  It is easy to understand why the restaurant is so popular the food, service and Margarita was great!   From their website: At Tequila Cantina Mexican Kitchen, we center our dining experience around high-quality, fresh ingredients and authenticity to Mexican culture.  W... 11/12/2023

Have you visited the Tonto National Forest or the Tonto Land Bridge in Arizona? They are sites to behold. But wait! Where DOES that apparent Native American name "Tonto" actually come from you ask? (Tonto National Forest Anasazi Ruins by Leigh-AnnE, Pixabay)Origination of "Tonto" As Used In:1. Tonto National ForestPhoto: Lindy Sanden, Pixabay2. Tonto Land Bridge3. Tonto (Lone Rangers Pal)Lone Ranger and Tonto (ABC Television Public Domain- Wikepedia)After the Mexican American War in the 1850s treaties were signed and land ceded. The American raised their flag  and the Mexican flags were lowered in ceremonies. The American map makers came to take over the new Arizona Territory including California from Mexico. The map makers in Arizona asked the local Native Americans, who were the more ... 11/12/2023

Celebrate Small Business Saturday~ Carlsbad Village ~ November 25, 2023 ~ The holiday shopping season seems to arrive earlier every year. Halloween is a distant memory, and Thanksgiving is less than 2 weeks away. Which also means the 14th annual Small Business Saturday in Carlsbad Village is coming soon. Small Business Saturday was initiated by American Express back in 2010 The first Saturday after Thanksgiving is the traditional day to support small businesses throughout the US. And you’ll find abundant opportunities at our Carlsbad Village retailers to #shopsmall. Many residents, and visitors, support small businesses in Carlsbad already but this is special opportunity to do so! And with the holiday shopping season upon is, that’s good news. The Carlsbad Village Association website no... 11/11/2023

On this 11th day of November, I think about those that served or have served so selflessly to preserve the freedom we enjoy because of their sacrifices. A soldier, living and/or dead, has the power to move us to tears. I can paste no image here today to make you feel more vulnerable to tears. There is already too much sadness in this world. Humans are not the only ones who grieve. Research studies have shown us that primates, elephants, and even beavers are known to cry. Like many pet owners know, or can attest, dogs have been known to exhibit signs of compassion when their master is dying or died. Some dogs have even sat on their graves for long periods of time. People say a loving pet mourns too.  Published stories of wars about soldiers who were in the battlefield, and letters left b... 11/11/2023