Local News and Events

Why Brea Deserves More Attention From Serious Orange County BuyersAfter helping families navigate North Orange County real estate for 14+ years, I've watched Brea transform from a shopping-center suburb into one of the region's most balanced communities. While Yorba Linda gets the prestige headlines and Fullerton draws the college-town crowd, Brea's quietly built something increasingly rare in Southern California: genuine suburban livability combined with actual urban amenities.Let me walk you through what November 2025 looks like in Brea, covering the real estate market, school performance, community development, and honest comparisons to neighboring cities.The Real Estate Reality: Stabilized and RationalThe Brea housing market has finally entered a phase that makes logical sense. We'r... 10/29/2025

Part One October 30th Part Two November 4thI had a real nice conversation with Pat Hayes, Founder and Director of Transition Life Consultants (TLC).  Pat and I have been trying to find the time that worked with both our busy schedules.  I found Transition Life Consultants as I was looking at different groups that serve The Villages, Florida.  Reading their website, I wanted to share as many residents need to know about this service.  This from their website: www.tlc-services.orgTLC Services is an innovative, unique organization utilizing the professional knowledge and skills of 20+ retired, volunteer social workers, mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, drug/alcohol counselors and psychologists to provide groups, education, training, and one-on-one counseling service... 10/30/2025

Certain commercial sectors are particularly vulnerable to mold contamination due to the nature of their operations, occupancy levels, and environmental conditions. The presence of mold in these settings can quickly erode customer trust, damage brand reputation, and lead to costly remediation or legal challenges.Restaurants & CafésCleanliness and safety are non-negotiable in food service environments. Visible mold on ceilings, walls, or in restrooms can immediately alarm patrons and result in damaging reviews. Many establishments paint ceilings black to conceal stains and prevent visual detection of moisture-related issues—a sign of how critical mold prevention truly is.Hotels & LodgingGuest comfort and air quality are paramount in the hospitality industry. Even a single mold complaint c... 10/29/2025

This year marks a monumental milestone for Town Center at Aurora.This year, we are thrilled to celebrate an extraordinary milestone: 50 years of Town Center at Aurora being the heart of commerce, culture, and community in our city. Over the last five decades, the Town Center has not just been a shopping destination but a beloved gathering place for locals, a space for growth, and a symbol of how Aurora continues to evolve. As we reflect on the journey, we are excited to commemorate this anniversary with events and recognitions that celebrate the rich history and vibrant future of Town Center at Aurora. A Look Back: The History of Town Center at Aurora Town Center at Aurora has come a long way since its opening 50 years ago (then known as The Aurora Mall), evolving from a small shopping ... 10/29/2025

🏡 What Pensacola Homeowners Need to KnowEach year, homeowners across Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze receive a property tax assessment notice. This valuation—combined with the local tax rate—determines how much you’ll owe in property taxes. Ideally, it reflects your home’s true market value. But as a Gulf Coast real estate broker who’s helped hundreds of clients navigate this process, I know assessments aren’t always accurate.If your home is overvalued, you could be paying more than your fair share. The good news? You have the right to challenge it—and I’m here to help.🔍 Common Reasons Your Property Tax Assessment May Be WrongUnderstanding why assessments go awry is the first step toward protecting your wallet. Here are the most frequent culprits:•     OvervaluationAssessors may use ou... 10/30/2025

Happy National Cat Day 🐾🐱🐈😻😽🐈‍⬛ From Charlotte's Pet-Friendly Realtor®October 29 Is The Purr-fect Excuse to Celebrate Our Feline Friends “I have studied many philosophers and many cats. The wisdom of cats is infinitely superior.”... Hippolyte Taine It's National Cat Day!  Today we pause to honor the true rulers of our homes — the ones who nap 18 hours a day, shed on our clothes, and still convince us they’re doing us a favor by gracing us with their presence.  National Cat Day, a purr-fect excuse to shower our feline overlords with love (and maybe a treat or two, if they allow it). It's also The purr-fect day for all cat parents to wish their fur babies a happy day and to show our cats just how much we love and appreciate them.  As NationalCatDay.com says: "we dream about, marvel at, an... 10/29/2025

Fall is here, time to get outside after the Summer heat. Start with Camelback Mountain at the intersection of Phoenix, Paradise Valley and Scottsdale. Starting from the left or Invergordon side or on the right by the camel's head and praying monk at Echo Canyon ). (Camelback Mountain, photo: Jeff Masich)   Here are the Top 50 hikes in Arizona for you to enjoy. There is so much to offer in the state from pine trees to deserts. Sure most people will immediately think of the Grand Canyon. However, without even leaving the Phoenix metro area we have over 60 miles of trails in the McDowell Mountains of Scottsdale not to mention Piestawa Peak #3, Camelback Mountain and South Mountain Park #2 with awesome views of downtown and the Valley of the Sun. But there is so much more...Read on! (Photo... 10/28/2025

🍂 The Ultimate Big Bear Fall Foliage Road Trip: 5 Scenic Overlooks As summer's vibrant greens begin their slow retreat, Big Bear Lake transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of gold, crimson, and rust. While our evergreen pines stand stoic, the aspen groves, cottonwoods, and oaks burst into a fiery display, creating an unforgettable autumn spectacle. Catching this fleeting beauty requires a bit of planning and a scenic drive.Here’s your ultimate road trip guide to experiencing Big Bear’s magnificent fall foliage, complete with five must-visit scenic overlooks. When to Go: Timing Your Trip for Peak Color The exact timing of peak fall colors varies year to year, largely depending on temperature fluctuations and rainfall. Generally, the best window in Big Bear is from mid-October through e... 10/28/2025

Every Wednesday we plan to share our most recent visit to the  PHOENIX ZOO. We have been members for seven years, it is the best $169.00 a year we have ever spent.  We hope you enjoy some wonderful photos and stories.  Bill and Pam   Every week we post a featured animal from our visit to the Phoenix Zoo. Subscribe to our page to follow. Bill   YouTube Channel for our Zoo visits   Today we stopped by to say goodbye.  These two beauties are off to Florida to oversee their own Herds.   "The two cubs are about a year and a half old, and zoo officials say they've reached the age when they would naturally leave their family pride in the wild. Jasiri and Azizi were born to parents Boboo and Zuri in June of 2024. Before the move takes place, the zoo will hold a going away party for the pair on... 11/05/2025

Montgomery County Office of Procurement Annual Procurement FairThe Montgomery County Office of Procurement will host its annual Procurement Fair from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 5, at the Silver Spring Civic Building, located at 1 Veterans Place in Silver Spring. This year’s event will feature a new workshop highlighting eligibility requirements and the benefits of certification for veteran-owned businesses. It will also feature assistance to minority, female, and disabled-owned businesses looking for certifications to do business with the County. The event is free, but registration is encouraged. Click here to read more.This is a Montgomery County, Maryland announcement. Dahlia, Kentlands Photowalk, Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA IMG 5474Canon PowerShot G11 CameraPhotograph... 10/31/2025

Understanding Your Medicare ChoicesMontgomery County SHIP Presents Understanding Your Medicare ChoicesJoin SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) for free monthly Medicare seminars at two different County libraries this month. The Montgomery County SHIP Director will present expert, unbiased information about what you need to know before enrolling in Medicare. You will learn what coverage you need, how enrollment periods work, and how to avoid penalties.   Thursday, November 6th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pmTwinbrook Library 202 Meadow Hall Dr, RockvilleTuesday, November 18th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pmWheaton Library 11701 Georgia Ave, Silver SpringNo registration requirement. For information, visit https://MedicareABCD.org/events/list/.Montgomery County SHIP is a federally funded prog... 11/04/2025

Free Virtual 50+ Employment ExpoTuesday, November 18th from 10:00 am to 3:00 pmAt the Virtual 50+ Employment Expo, you can:  Network with age-friendly area employers Receive valuable job search guidance   Learn about new tools and ways to search for employment opportunities  Each Expo includes multiple employers with available full-time and part-time job opportunities. Employers: Find your next hire at the Expo! If you have at least three job openings to fill, just forty minutes of your time can introduce you to competent, accomplished professional candidates. Registration is complimentary, and you may register for more than one Expo at a time. Jobseekers and employers can visit VirtualExpos.AccessJCA.org to register or for more information. Next Expo: Tuesday, January 20thThis is a Mon... 11/03/2025

Food Resources for Furloughed Federal EmployeesThe federal government shutdown is impacting programs like SNAP & WIC, but Montgomery County has resources to help. If you’re a furloughed worker or need food assistance, visit our Food Resources page for updated info, maps & contacts: https://ow.ly/mbz650XjaVXThis is a Montgomery County, Maryland announcement. Commotion Moxie, Blanket Flower, Kentlands Photowalk, Gaithersburg, Maryland USA IMG 6272Canon PowerShot G11 CameraPhotograph by Roy KelleyRoy and Dolores Kelley Photographs 11/02/2025

Caregivers Month Holistic Care, Arts, and MoreNational Caregivers Month Holistic Care, Arts, and More! (In-Person Program)Wednesday, November 19th from 9:00 am to 12 pmThe Arc Montgomery County, 7362 Calhoun Place, RockvilleJoin us for a morning of relaxation, connection, and inspiration as we celebrate National Caregivers Month with a special in-person program dedicated to supporting caregivers' well-being. Hosted by the National Family Caregiver Support Program, the Commission on Aging, and The Arc Montgomery County, this event offers a variety of engaging activities designed to nurture mind, body, and spirit.9:00 am to 9:30 am Light Breakfast and Registration9:30 am to 10:30 am Spiritual Aspects of Caregiving, with Dr. Christina Puchalski10:30 am to 10:45 am Breakout Sessions10:45 am... 11/01/2025

Family Caregiver Support ProgramThe National Family Caregiver Support Program invites you to powerful, informative and uplifting events for caregivers.  Join us at these Zoom meetings.Respite Programs and other Resources for CaregivingFriday, November 14th from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pmJulz Abate and Ruth KershnerJoin Zoom Meeting:  https://montgomerycountymd-gov.zoom.us/j/81094419723?pwd=o1lAamOyVYuA1SpU6114KhnI5fsiuA.1Alzheimer's Program:  Healthy Living for Brain and BodyMonday, November 17th from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pmJoin Zoom Meeting:  https://montgomerycountymd-gov.zoom.us/j/835939%2043739?pwd=J4kFjUxoLqWxfqon3XtPn8R1yVHeEX.1Mental Health Coaching for Caregivers (In English)Monday, November 17th from 5:30 pm - 6:30Jhoselyn Rodriguez, CEO & Founder, Coaching Salud HolisticaJoin Zoom Meeting:... 11/01/2025

Job Search Training for 50+ Job SeekersThe Career Gateway Provides Affordable Job Search Training for 50+ Job Seekers November 3rd, 5th, 7th, 10th, and 12thAre you over 50 and looking for a new job?   The JCA Career Gateway Program can help you hone your resume, polish your networking and interviewing skills, and use internet job search resources more effectively. For only $99, each session of the Career Gateway features: 30 hours of small-group classroom instruction over five days comprehensive take-home materials practical exercises and a long-term mentor Sessions run from 9:00 am until 4:00 pm. Optional employment-related tech classes are also available. Sessions and tech classes will be held as an interactive, live Zoom experience. Don’t be intimidated by online instruction; we’ll t... 10/30/2025

Building Your AI Awareness: Pearls and PerilsLearn about Artificial Intelligence and How to Avoid Fraud during the Age-Friendly EcoSystem Summit’s Last Day – Free and VirtualBuilding Your AI Awareness: Pearls and PerilsThursday, October 30th from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pmArtificial intelligence is transforming our world - for better and for worse. Learn how AI can support aging through health, connection, and safety, while also uncovering the ethical and security risks, ageism concerns, and protections we must champion to create a truly age-friendly digital future.Speakers: Laurie Orlov, Aging and Health Technology WatchMichael Phillips, AARP Technology Strategy IntegrationPeter Abadir, Johns Hopkins UniversityJeb Saunders, North Carolina Department of JusticeMichael Herndon, Consumer Financia... 10/29/2025

Journaling - October 28, 2025 Two Roads Diverged and I -I took the one less traveled by,and that has made all the difference.---Robert Frost Yesterday evening made all the difference in my life. I could have stayed home reading a book, or tuning into The Voice, instead I went to a quiet place of solitude. My alma mater presented "GLORIA!" An evening of CHORAL MUSIC featuring the University of Dallas Chorale. All I had to do was listen.  The program began with the University of Dallas musicians playing "Sonata XII in D-minor," (RV 63) by Antonio Vivaldi. It was followed by the Chorale singing "Ave Maria....Virgo serena, and "Gloria in D-major (RV 589). For the first time, the meaning of the words "And on earth peace to all those of good will," became clear. The orchestra played perfectly... 10/28/2025

On the south side of The Villages, Florida is a great place to visit and eat, Fenney Grill.  I have been spending time lately in the Fenney area and knowing if I am there and hungry where I will be stopping.  On their website www.FenneyGrill.com they introduce themselves at “Where great food meets the great outdoors.”  This also from their website, “You will find Fenney Grill conveniently nestled near the Fenney Recreation Center, the Fenney Family Pool, and two Executive Golf Courses.  Hosting you in a casual, drop-in environment, we serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.”For some Fenney Grill is the perfect place to stop after enjoying the Fenney Nature Trail for a beverage and discuss all you saw on the trail!  I love this, “Our philosophy is simple: start local, dream big, and le... 11/03/2025

Dinner at Acre  or Pizza at Little Italy ?If you live in Auburn or you’re just visiting, there’s one delicious debate locals know all too well — Acre or Little Italy? Do you go fancy with Southern farm-to-table at Acre, or grab a gooey New York-style pizza at Little Italy downtown? Either way, you’re tasting a piece of Auburn’s personality.  The Case for AcreAcre isn’t just dinner — it’s an experience. Located right in downtown Auburn, the restaurant sources ingredients from its on-site gardens and nearby farms. Think local, refined, and proudly Southern. It’s where you celebrate big wins, impress guests, or unwind after a long week of showings and open houses.  The Pull of Little ItalyThen there’s Little Italy — laid-back, nostalgic, and always packed with students, families, and lifel... 10/28/2025