Posts by Kathleen Messmer
Bennett Place: A Beacon of Hope and Resilience, Even Today
I had never heard of Bennett Place, located in the heart of North Carolina, ever. Not in school, not in anything I read. Ever. It is a sobering historic site that carries with it rich stories reflecting the resilience and determination of its people. Known primarily as a pivotal location during the Civil War, Bennett…
Read MoreDiscover Southern Charm and Elegance at Heights House
Nestled in the heart of the historic Boylan Heights neighborhood, and formerly known as Montfort Hall, Heights House stands as a stunning testament to the charm and character of Raleigh, North Carolina. Recently renovated to provide a blend of modern sophistication and timeless elegance, Heights House is more than just a hotel; it’s an experience…
Read MoreNature’s Artistry in Mendocino County
Nestled on the rugged coast of Northern California in Fort Bragg, Mendocino County, Glass Beach is a mesmerizing destination that showcases the beauty of nature’s reclamation. Once a dumping ground for everything from cars to appliances and all manner of trash, glass, and debris between 1906 and 1967, this beach has transformed itself over the…
Read MoreRedlands Revealed: A Charming Escape in Southern California
Redlands, California, is a hidden gem that perfectly captures the charm of Southern California. The city is known for its historic architecture, with beautifully preserved Victorian homes dotting the streets. A stroll through the downtown area reveals buildings dating back to the late 1800s, showcasing unique styles such as Colonial Revival and Mission Revival architecture.…
Read MoreEnchant – Las Vegas
As I arrived in Las Vegas, I was drawn to a big, beautiful sign beckoning with “Enchant” in front of the hotel. I was curious so, I asked what it meant. The valet said, “You must enter to find out,” so enter I did, down countless corridors until I reached a world not unlike Alice…
Read MoreCelebrating Dia de los Muertos at the Famous Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Waiting in line to enter the 25th-anniversary celebration of Dia de los Muertos at the famous Hollywood Forever cemetery was, in itself, a surreal experience. Many people in line were in costume and some were very clever. The sign over the entrance was fashioned from the typical marigolds prevalent in Day of the Dead celebrations…
Read MoreAmerica’s Air Show: MCAS Miramar
So, I have a confession to make. Can you believe I’ve never been to a Blue Angels Air Show before? Yep, it’s true. I’ve never had the chance to witness one of these incredible shows, and I have to admit, I’ve been seriously missing out. Recently, I had the opportunity to attend “America’s Air Show”…
Read MoreInside the Blue Angels: A Conversation with Lieutenant Commander Wes Perkins, USN
Interviewing Lieutenant Commander Wes Perkins, was probably the best part of my entire experience at the MCAS Miramar Air Show, billed as “America’s Air Show”. He’s been flying for 11 years and has been with the Blue Angels for about a year. He has one more year with the Blue Angels before returning to the…
Read MoreAll Aboard: Exploring the Rich History of the Southern California Railway Museum
The Southern California Railway Museum, formerly known as the Orange Empire Railway Museum, is located in Perris, California, and is a fascinating destination for train enthusiasts and history buffs, not to mention it’s loads of fun. Where else do you get the opportunity to ring the bells on a locomotive that’s over a century old? …
Read MoreHyde Street Pier: Maritime History in San Francisco
If you’re even remotely interested in maritime history, in general or in the Bay Area specifically, a trip to Hyde Street Pier is an absolute must. Situated at the far end of Fisherman’s Wharf, Hyde Street Pier stands as a remarkable testament to the city’s rich maritime heritage. As part of the National Park Service,…
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