Local News and Events

THINGS TO DO IN SOUTHCOAST MA & RI SEPT 25 - OCT 2024SOUTHCOAST HARVEST FESTIVAL, APPLE PICKING, CORN MAZE, CAR SHOW, HAY RIDES, & MORE VISIT https://www.safeharborrealty.net/blog/13991/things-to-do-around-westport-ma-sept-25-oct-2024COMPLIMENTS KAREN MARTIN REALTOR SAFE HARBOR REALTY WESTPORT, MA REAL ESTATE 09/26/2024

St. Michael’s Jazz Fest The inaugural St. Michael’s Jazz Fest takes place this weekend, September 28th and 29th. The festival will be held outdoors at St. Michael’s By-the-Sea Episcopal Church in Carlsbad Village at 2775 Carlsbad Boulevard. (photo courtesy of Pixabay).  The festival is 1 block from the train station – a recommended way to get there in addition to walking or by bicycle. There is limited street parking and the Village is busy on the weekends. However, you can also park at the train station but that parking may also be limited on the weekend. St. Michael’s Jazz Fest is from 10:30 AM to around 7:30 PM on Saturday  (last band is at 6:00) and from 11:00 AM to around 2:00 (last band at 1:00 PM). Here’s the full band schedule which includes the Grammy-award winning Rebirth Bras... 09/26/2024

Gaithersburg Halloween HappeningsHappy October, Gaithersburg! Spooky season is here, and we’re celebrating all month with chilling events and activities! Check out what’s in store: https://gburg.md/HalloweenHappeningsThis is a City of Gaithersburg, Maryland announcement.  Dahlia, 'Clearview Butterscotch', National Capital Dahlia Society Show, Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, Maryland USA IMG 3078Canon PowerShot G11 CameraPhotograph by Roy KelleyRoy and Dolores Kelley Photographs 10/01/2024

There is nothing that screams “It’s Fall!” more than visiting local orchards.As fall paints the west metro of the Twin Cities in vibrant hues, the local orchards invite apple enthusiasts and nature lovers to embrace the season. With crisp air and warm cider, these picturesque spots offer the perfect backdrop for a day of apple picking and autumn adventures. This is a SW Metro "only" Guide.Get your guide here: https://bit.ly/4eFgqHK 09/26/2024

If you have been in the real estate game for more than a minute, then you will have started listing homes. You will very quickly what works and what doesn't. That is why most listing agents recommend and provide some level of professional staging to their clients.Let's peel back the layers on the home staging debate and see what lies beneath. Is it really worth the expense, time and effort? Who should you use: your listing agent, a staging professional or perhaps a furniture company?*The photos used in this post are from my custom home company. As you can see, we pay to have every home we build fully staged when it is for sale.The MythMy wife Deb is in charge of listings at our brokerage. She is an ACCREDITED STAGING PROFESSIONAL® (ASP) and has a few other designations as well. My point... 09/27/2024

Tonight at 7:00 EST I will be doing my Thursday Evening LIVE! This one happens to be during what will likely be the peak of the effects of Hurricane Helene for us here in Central Florida. This is of course if we have power and Starlink can get my signal to you! We are as ready as we can be, only expecting rain and some tropical storm force winds, but that is if we don't see it wobble or shift course. This is a large and rapidly intensifying storm, and though we are outside of the "Cone of uncertainty" the effects of this storm extend hundreds of miles from the eye. Be sure to pop on and ask questions if you are considering making the move to Florida!  09/26/2024

The U.S. Census Bureau states that North Texas is home to 5 of the 15 fastest growing cities in the United States. It is not a surprise to the locals who are watching family owned farms and ranches rapidly turn into master planned neighborhoods. In case you are interested, here are the 5 cities they mentioned: Celina (26%) Princeton (22%) Anna (17%) Prosper (11%) Forney (10%) Why Is North Texas Growing So Fast?If you ask 10 local real estate agents, you are likely to get 11 different answers. Most of them will probably give you a list that includes a couple of the following reasons: the economy the weather local schools low crime rates friendly people The 400 pound jalapeño in the room is our ability to be friends with our neighbors that may have different political opinions from our ow... 09/26/2024

For S corporation owners, reasonable compensation is crucial for staying compliant with the IRS. As both shareholders and employees, owners must pay themselves a fair salary based on their work. This is important because shareholder-employees receive funds through wages (subject to payroll taxes) and distributions (not subject to payroll taxes). If the IRS believes an owner is underpaying themselves in wages while taking excessive distributions, it can lead to audits, penalties, and back taxes.But what exactly is considered reasonable compensation, and why does it matter?How the IRS Defines Reasonable CompensationThe IRS defines reasonable compensation as pay reflecting the value of services provided by the shareholder-employee. The salary should match what the company would pay someone... 09/26/2024

Halloween is a time for fun, fright, and festivities, but it’s essential to prioritize safety as you prepare for the spooky season. Here are some practical tips for Catonsville families to ensure your little monsters enjoy a safe and enjoyable Halloween! 1. Costume Safety Choose Safe Costumes: Opt for costumes that fit well and are not too long to prevent tripping. Avoid long capes or oversized outfits that can pose a hazard. Visibility is Key: Ensure costumes are bright and visible. Add reflective tape or accessories to costumes, so your child can be seen easily by drivers in the dark. Face Masks: If your child wants to wear a mask, make sure it doesn’t obstruct their vision. Consider using non-toxic face paint instead for better visibility. Flame-Resistant Materials: Choose costumes m... 10/07/2024

 WHERE TO PICK, PATCH, AND MAZE YOUR WAY THIS FALL IN CHARLOTTE!Fun Fall activities for many families include a visit to a pumpkin patch, picking apples, corn mazes, hay rides. The Greater Charlotte area provides numerous venues to participate in these traditional Fall activities. Here's a partial list of venues you can reach in under an hour if you live in the Greater Charlotte area.   CHARLOTTE PUMPKIN PATCHES  Hall Family Farm: 445 West Rebound Road in Lancaster, SC. Open until November 3rd. Includes 7-acre corn maze, goat walk, kids walk, kitchen and bakery. Check the website for hours and prices for pumpkins. Lineberger's Farm: 906 Dallas Stanley Highway in Dallas, NC. Established in 1929, Lineberger's Farm offers both pumpkin picking and muscadine grape picking in October and Nove... 09/26/2024

 As Halloween approaches, it’s the perfect time to get creative and transform your Catonsville home into a spooky spectacle! Homemade decorations not only save money but also allow for personal touches that reflect your family's style. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating fun and festive Halloween decorations that will delight your neighbors and trick-or-treaters alike!1. Spooky DIY Jack-o’-Lanterns Materials Needed: Pumpkins (various sizes) Carving tools or pumpkin carving kit Tealights or LED candles Permanent markers (optional) Instructions: Choose Your Pumpkins: Select a variety of pumpkins based on size and shape from your local pumpkin patch or grocery store. Design: Sketch your designs on paper or use a permanent marker to draw directly on the pumpkin. Carve: Using your carvin... 10/06/2024

Tour Reid’s Fine Foods in Charlotte, NC   If you’re looking for a taste of Charlotte’s local flavor, Reid’s Fine Foods is a must-visit. This iconic gourmet grocery and dining spot has been serving up high-quality, Southern-inspired foods for nearly a century. With multiple locations across the city, Reid’s offers everything from fresh produce and butcher cuts to prepared meals and a full wine selection—making it the go-to spot for both everyday essentials and specialty items.When you step inside Reid’s, you immediately feel its blend of upscale market and neighborhood café. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch, planning a special dinner, or shopping for gourmet gifts, Reid’s has you covered. Their hot bar features Southern classics like fried chicken, mac and cheese, and collard green... 09/30/2024

Discover Paper Skyscraper in Charlotte, NC      If you're exploring Charlotte, NC, you absolutely have to visit Paper Skyscraper—a local treasure that's as unique as the city itself. Nestled in the vibrant Dilworth neighborhood, this independent gift shop is a dream for anyone who loves discovering quirky, thoughtful items. Whether you're looking for a clever greeting card, a funny coffee mug, or a beautifully illustrated book, Paper Skyscraper has something that’ll catch your eye.Walking into the store feels like entering a whimsical gallery. The layout is bright and inviting, with each shelf brimming with surprises. From home décor to stationery, it’s easy to lose track of time wandering the aisles, and you can tell the shop curates its products with care. The friendly staff are alwa... 09/26/2024

Last week we flew to Northern Virginia and came home with Covid, plus a freaking hurricane in the Gulf!  Guess the good thing I don’t have any desire to eat hurricane snacks or what I bought at Total Wine!Let’s talk tornadoes, we don’t have basements so think about interior rooms or closets.  Our plan is our walk-in closet which has the most protection away from exterior walls and windows.  If you either use the search feature on my page or scroll back to August 8th I wrote about the Groundhog Day Tornadoes back in 2007.  Look at the pictures and read the article, serious stuff!So today is the day, this hurricane is big spanning across the state, the latest they expected it to be a Cat 4 but as of this morning maybe a Cat 3.  Either way a very dangerous storm.  The way it looks for The ... 09/26/2024

Every now and then we meet someone who is so exceptional, you just know there's a story that must be repeated for all to hear. This is the story of Marilyn Walker who provided students from the University of Dallas in Irving, Texas, opportunities to perform with instruments, in musicals, and many choirs that she directed during the 32 years while she provided stewardship and dedication for inspiring others to develop musical talent.It is with graitude I recognize "The Crowley Chamber Trio," and Marilyn Walker for presenting free concerts at the most beautiful Musem I have ever been to, to honor the late David Crowley and the David M. Crowley Foundation, and it is all because of the benevolent generousity and dedication of Marilyn to continue music to be appreciated for students and othe... 09/25/2024

Fall Time Fun:VA State Fair Starts Sept. 27th- Oct. 6thLocated at the Meadow Event Park:13191 Dawn Blvd. Doswell, VA 23047This is the time of year when you get excited knowing that the sound of the rides and the smell of funnel cake will be consuming the air.  The State Fair of VA at  the Meadow Event Park is kicking off on September 27th and will run until October 6, 2024. This year’s theme is “Where Home Grown Happens” will feature plenty of games, events, contests, and more for the whole family to enjoy while experiencing the beautiful agriculture of Virginia. Make time to go and see the birthplace of Secretariat and enjoy the beginning of Fall. For more information about the State Fair please visit http://statefairva.org/.Need a Place to Call Home in VA? CallState Wide Realty Co at ... 09/25/2024

There's No Place Like H.O.M.E. After the home search has concluded, the next steps come quickly. Once an offer becomes accepted by sellers, a home inspection is ordered, negotiation allows for both sides to determine the terms and conditions of real estate purchase contract. If getting a mortgage, the lender works closely with all parties to ensure success through qualification & documentation. Closing and recording take place, bringing forth a range of emotions, though buyers are able to move in and sellers, move on.  HOPE: Buyers realize the home will be the perfect fit for their wants, needs and desires. They feel hopeful that the property offers a place they can truly feel at home plus along with it, a sense of security. OPPORTUNITIES: With so many factors to consider, buyers can ch... 09/25/2024

Is it time for a move to a place where small-town charm meets the conveniences of a vibrant city? Then let me introduce you to the small Texas town of Celina Texas. Recently named the fastest growing town in the US, Celina won't be considered a small town much longer.Arriving In TexasOnce you land at DFW International airport you are a quick 40 minute drive to the historic district or 'heart' of Celina. Keep in mind, our highways and roads are pretty amazing here in Texas. They should be, since we spend tons of money every year on them.Starting The TourWe love to give personal tours of Celina to our out of town clients. We always start out in the historical downtown area. Depending on who we are helping, we grab a coffee, some BBQ, or some candy from one of the following: Summer Moon Co... 09/25/2024

Looks like you have today yet to pick up anything you need.  If The Weather Channel is right looks like our worst weather will be Thursday evening.  30 mph winds with gust to 60 mph and heavy rain.  You need to be where you want to be by 5:00 pm Thursday.  Stay out of golf cart tunnels!Update on “Dick’s Lanai Furniture”.  There is only three, “Not Worried about Lanai Furniture”, “Thinking about Moving Lanai Furniture” and “Moving Lanai Furniture”.  Currently I am “Moving Lanai Furniture!”Stopped yesterday to pick up a few things at the store, filled the car, and a quick trip to Total Wine.  Few more people out than normal but not crazy, you don’t need 10 cases of water or food for a month, I’m thinking by Friday afternoon this will be gone!Dick Betts, REALTOR®The Betts TeamTouchstone Re... 09/25/2024

Burlington, North Carolina, often overshadowed by its larger neighbors, offers a unique blend of small-town charm, cultural richness, and natural beauty. This vibrant city is a fantastic choice for those seeking a high quality of life, affordable housing, and a strong sense of community.Reasons to Love Burlington Affordability: Burlington offers a relatively low cost of living compared to many other cities in the United States, making it an attractive option for homebuyers and renters. Strong Community: The city is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, with a variety of community events and organizations to get involved in. Natural Beauty: Burlington is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including parks, lakes, and trails, providing ample opportunities for outdoor re... 09/24/2024