Local News and Events

Hello, friends and neighbors! This week in Berea, KY, brought a range of local updates that highlight how connected and active our community truly is.Community & SafetyEarlier in the week, local authorities reported the arrest of a Berea man in Pulaski County connected to a drug investigation. It’s a serious reminder of the importance of safety, community vigilance, and strong neighborhood networks.City Leadership UpdatesCouncilmember Wilson stepped down, and Barry Poynter joined the Berea City Council. These changes strengthen local governance and ensure our community continues to have responsive leadership.Supporting Neighbors Through the Winter StormWinter storms hit hard this week, but Berea’s spirit shines through. Local shelters expanded aid to unhoused neighbors, keeping our most... 01/30/2026

Tax season is officially here, and for many homeowners, it may come with a welcome surprise.Recent federal tax updates could result in larger refunds, around $1,000 more for many families, and one of the most notable changes impacting homeowners is the expanded State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction, which may now allow eligible households to deduct significantly more than in previous years.From a real estate perspective, this matters because stronger refunds can: Help homeowners offset property-related expenses Improve overall financial stability Support future buying or selling plans In markets like Berea KY and Richmond KY, these financial shifts often influence homeowner confidence and market activity. While tax professionals should always be consulted for individual guidance, underst... 01/30/2026

The other day I was visiting with a past client and he mentioned he took accordion lessons as a young adult.  I was surprised and asked him if he still played he said no but found it interesting.  You can guess what I did, I found The Villages Accordion Players Social Club.  I had no idea there was a club for accordion players but sure enough there is one.  I called him and left him know he could continue his career as an accordionist.  He didn’t seem that interested but you never know that urge to play the squeeze box could return!It turns the club performed last St, Patrick’s Day celebration at Lake Sumter Landing.  They serenaded the crowd with “Danny Boy,” “The Irish Washerwoman,” and “Too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ra. Interested?  The club meets every Thursday at Big Cypress Rec Center from 1:... 02/04/2026

The 75th Anniversary of the Scottsdale Parada del sol is January 31, 2026;  These festivities are VERY popular in this part of Arizona this last week of January.  The pride of our state is evident in the attendance and commitment of the city of Scottsdale since 1951!   It's all smiles this week as we come together for fun and the history of Arizona on full display from costumes to our Mexican and Indian heritage, as well is historic period costumes.   The 75th Anniversary of the Western Week for the City of Scottsdale starts January 24, 2026 and ends January 31st with the Parada del Sol Historic Parade.  The parade has been in operation for 75 years and includes over 125 floats and participants.   You may not find this many horses in ANY parade!   I've heard rumors this is the largest p... 01/29/2026

The United States is having some severe weather, cold, snow and ice here and affecting many millions of people.Portugal is also experiencing storms crossing the Country.    There were three different named storms (they aren't saying they are hurricanes), but strong winds, and serious rain has affected many along the coast.   Many trees are down, and roads are impassable.   My friend David is there now, and he said the winds have been crazy, and the rain has been unrelenting.   He now has a leak in one of the bedrooms that needs to be repaired when it stops raining for a bit.    Hope I can get used to this much rain!  01/29/2026

Sidewalk Snow Shoveling Enforcement Paused in Montgomery CountyUpdate from our Department of Housing and Community Affairs. Enforcement of sidewalk snow shoveling laws will not begin until Monday, Feb. 2 at the earliest. This is due to sustained freezing temperatures and snow- and ice-packed pathways.After 2/2 contact @311mc311This is a Montgomery County, Maryland announcement. Joe-Pye Weed, Eutrochium purpureum, Meadow Garden, Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania USA IMG 5803Photograph by Roy KelleyRoy and Dolores Kelley Photographs 01/29/2026

Student Registration for National History Day CompetitionThe 2026 Montgomery County National History Day Competition will be held at Sligo Middle School in Silver Spring on March 7. Student registration for the competition starts on Monday, Feb. 9 and ends on Friday, Feb. 13.  For middle and high school students who participate, History Day sparks critical thinking, and helps develop skills in research and analysis, writing, and public speaking. Working solo or in small groups, students create original documentaries, exhibits, performances, research papers or websites exploring a breadth of historical topics within an annual theme. The County's National History Day Competition is also looking for 230 student, community, and/or parent volunteers for the event. Volunteers who are 18 and o... 02/04/2026

Black History Month Kick-OffThe Montgomery County African American Advisory Group invites the community to its first Black History Month Kick-Off and Good Trouble Awards Presentation from 6-9 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 4. Organizers are hosting this inaugural event to launch Black History Month with purpose, honoring a century of Black history while creating space to reflect, connect, and prepare together as a community. The event will be held at the Isiah "Ike" Leggett Office Building, located at 101 Monroe St. in Rockville.  Register online.This is a Montgomery County, Maryland announcement. Thistle, Meadow Garden, Longwood Gardens,Kennett Square, Pennsylvania USA IMG 5806Canon PowerShot G11 CameraPhotograph by Roy KelleyRoy and Dolores Kelley Photographs 01/29/2026

Open Positions on Board of Social ServicesCounty Executive Marc Elrich seeks applicants to fill five public member vacancies on the Board of Social Services, which oversees the County’s social welfare programs. They include food assistance, medical aid for those without insurance, and child protective services. Social services are essential to connecting County residents to housing, energy, and economic stability through our community outreach and partnerships. Applications must be submitted by Wednesday, Feb. 11.Apply online.This is a Montgomery County, Maryland announcement. Thistle, Meadow Garden, Longwood Gardens,Kennett Square, Pennsylvania USA IMG 5815Canon PowerShot G11 CameraPhotograph by Roy KelleyRoy and Dolores Kelley Photographs 02/03/2026

One of the things I love most about Madison County is the sense of community, and this week’s local events are a perfect example of why people love living here.On January 31, Madison County is hosting a variety of activities that bring together families, neighbors, and local businesses.From Shotokan Karate (10–11 AM) for those looking to stay active, to HOLY HOT GLUE! Let’s Make Bible Charms (10 AM–1 PM) for creative kids and families, there’s something for every stage of life.Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the iNaturalist I.D.-a-thon (11 AM–1 PM), while families looking for a relaxed afternoon can stop by Family Open Hours (3–5 PM).The day wraps up with live music featuring John McHugh & George Molto at Chenault Vineyards (6–9 PM), a great reminder of how local venues add character and ... 01/29/2026

Positions Open on Montgomery County’s Human Rights CommissionMontgomery County is looking for some fresh voices for its Commission on Human Rights. The group promotes equal rights and opportunities for all persons. Members work to eliminate discrimination, prejudice, intolerance, and bigotry in housing, recreation, education, health, employment, public accommodations, and justice across our community. Commissioners are expected to serve on special or standing committees and participate in community activities.Applicants of diverse backgrounds, professions, genders, geography, abilities, ethnicities, and ages are encouraged to apply.The application deadline is Wednesday, Feb. 11.Apply online.This is a Montgomery County, Maryland announcement. Water Lily, Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square,... 02/02/2026

 Selling a home is traditionally viewed as a marathon, not a sprint. From finding a realtor to staging rooms and waiting for financing approval, the process can drag on for months. But life doesn't always operate on a standard timeline. A sudden job relocation, an inherited property, or a financial shift can create an urgent need to liquidate assets quickly.If you find yourself in a position where time is your most valuable currency, the standard playbook might not work for you. Fortunately, the real estate market offers multiple pathways to the closing table. Whether you are in Hartford, New Haven, or the quiet corners of Litchfield County, it is entirely possible to streamline the transaction. This guide explores actionable strategies to help you sell your house fast in Connecticut wi... 01/29/2026

Journal Entry for 1/29/2026 I am no longer selling, but I am still learning. The weather isn't the only thing that changes - I am changing too. During the recent winter storm, I couldn't bear to stay home to wait and see if my pipes would freeze or if the power went out, just how cold my house would be. Nor could I wonder how I could eat since everything is run by electricity. So, I decided to book a room at the Marriott Courtyard. After taking all necessary precautions, I packed my bags and left. The photograph is the view from my room. I wasn't lonely, and neither was my car out front. The Staff went above and beyond to accommodate my needs. Yesterday, I wrote a review and was surprised this morning to receive a thank you from the General Manager for my review. This morning, I receive... 01/29/2026

RUSK COUNTY WISCONSIN FOREST HUNTING & TIMBER LAND WANTED! 1-2026    Buyers are ready to invest in Your Wisconsin Forest Land.  Who do you know that may be ready to sell for the right price?  Timberland, both mature and growing stock.     Red, Jack, and White Pine     Quality Central and Northern Hardwoods   Hunting Land, both turnkey premium hunting parcels and camps and those properties that have potential with the right management.     Old farms     QDM enhanced properties     Heavily managed habitat.     Non-managed habitat.     Nearly any partially wooded property may fit one of our buyers' needs.    Give us a Call and let us know who You know that may be interested in Selling their land for the right price.   We are the Forest Land, Timber Land, and Hunting Land Experts with seve... 01/29/2026

IRON COUNTY WISCONSIN FOREST HUNTING & TIMBER LAND WANTED! 1-2026    Buyers are ready to invest in Your Wisconsin Forest Land.  Who do you know that may be ready to sell for the right price?  Timberland, both mature and growing stock.     Red, Jack, and White Pine     Quality Central and Northern Hardwoods   Hunting Land, both turnkey premium hunting parcels and camps and those properties that have potential with the right management.     Old farms     QDM enhanced properties     Heavily managed habitat.     Non-managed habitat.     Nearly any partially wooded property may fit one of our buyers' needs.    Give us a Call and let us know who You know that may be interested in Selling their land for the right price.   We are the Forest Land, Timber Land, and Hunting Land Experts with seve... 01/29/2026

The Villages, Florida has a place you might want to check out, Harry and The Natives.  Many of my friends have tried and all say it was a great experience.  This from their website:  www.NativesVillages.comStep into a lakeside escape where the tiki vibe meets fresh, scratch-made dining. At Harry and The Natives at The Villages, we don't believe in shortcuts — there's no freezer here, only fresh ingredients prepared daily with care. From our Shrimp & Grits and Tuna Poke to classics like burgers, pulled pork, and coastal-inspired handhelds, every plate delivers bold flavor with an Old Florida flair. Join us under the tiki hut and discover why locals and visitors alike call this their go-to spot for good food, cold drinks, and unbeatable vibes. We are first come, first served and do not ac... 02/03/2026

Recently I shared we had 800 holes of golf in The Villages, Florida and soon was corrected as another course was opened.  Until I see in print the total number of holes I will just give updates on what is coming.  South of the turnpike we have four new executive 9-hole courses and a 27-hole championship course being built.Two coming soon executive course are Beautyberry and Honeysuckle which are close to Eastport.  These will be off Bexley Trail just north of Marsh Bend Trail.  What I read which was in the past few weeks opening soon.The other two executive course are Timberland and The Lakes.  Located on McNeill Drive between Central Parkway and Marsh Bend.  In the future was how it was described.Meadowview Championship 27-hole course which will be off Bexley Trail bordering the turnpi... 02/01/2026

THANK YOU! To each and every one of you who took the time to leave me a review — I truly appreciate you taking the time to provide feedback!! Apologies for the delay with the drawing, and Congratulations to our Winners, Brian and Deana Vanest! I am so fortunate to have worked with such wonderful people. Please stay in touch, and keep me in mind if you know anyone who may have a real estate need I recently referred two clients to an amazing Realtor team in NY and NJ, and they are super happy — referrals matter! And remember… everything is negotiable, even when it’s not real estate Cheers! Joanne 01/28/2026

Alert Montgomery - Cold Emergency AlertA Cold Emergency Alert has been extended for Montgomery County until Tuesday, 2/3 at 12pm. Residents should be prepared for wind chill values to be below 20 degrees. These dangerously cold temperatures and wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin within 30 minutes and/or hypothermia. Try to stay indoors if possible. Take extra precautions if you work or spend long amounts of time outdoors. Wear extra layers and when possible, take frequent breaks in a warm location. If you need relief from the cold, visit County facilities such as Libraries and Recreation Centers during business hours. Public shopping centers are also available as warm locations during their hours of operation.Residents concerned about the well-being of a homeless individu... 01/28/2026

According to a January 2026 seasonal housing market report, May is the best month to sell a house in the United States. The study examined 12 months of data to find when sellers are most likely to close a deal. May is the best month to sell a house, with a 34.92% success rate. Houses are the most expensive in summer, especially in June, when the median price hits $370,000. March is the fastest month to sell, with homes finding buyers in just 29 days. The research by Highland Cabinetry measured selling success by observing how many homes on the market actually sold each month. This sell-through rate was combined with median prices, days spent on market, and buyer competition level through a market heat index that tracks how actively buyers are searching and making offers. Together, these... 02/02/2026