How did climate change became such a divisive issue? How did the warming of the Earth evolve into a line in the sand for politicians? I don’t know those answers.  What I do know is that it is definitely hotter earlier in the season, year after year.
I don’t need scientific data, I can just look in my garden. All plants come up earlier. June bugs arrive in May. Lenten roses are blooming in February.
I am not politically aligned with any Democrats or Republicans or even independents, but I have noticed the majority of my Republican friends seem to believe there is no global warming, there is no climate change and there are no melting ice caps.
I guess, like reading the Bible, you can find evidence to support anything you believe, so if you do believe in climate change, you can find lots of evidence that confirms your personal belief. Likewise, if you don’t believe in global warming, you can find lots of expert reference to support that. If you are a middle of the road sort of person, you can collect reference and back up your arguments on both sides.
I admit I have a jaded way of thinking about global policies and politics. I’m pretty sure everything revolves around money. Whether war or famine, health or religion, climate change, corporate policy, automation, jobs, benefits or any number of big think items, money is at the heart. Someone is getting rich either by spending vast amounts of money or saving vast amounts of money.
Jobs are created or jobs are lost because of profit. Wars are waged to absorb countries and gain their resources. Religions collect untold fortunes to help the poor, but don’t you think for one moment no one is profiting from their bounty.
Regardless what you think about climate change, SOMETHING is happening. What might bring it home for non-believers is the recent lawsuit by Farmers Insurance Company against Chicago, alleging the city is not preparing the infrastructure for increased flooding due to climate change.
So, here’s the deal; it doesn’t matter whether you believe climate change is occurring. There are plenty of people who do believe it. Businesses, concerned about their profits believe in climate change. The United States Government has a Climate Change Adaptation Task Force. There are literally thousands of scholarly articles and volumes of research indicating that climate change is occurring.
You don’t have to believe it. There are enough people who do believe and enough of those big money makers who do believe that new policies are going to be crafted, new ways of responding are going to be developed. It doesn’t matter whether you agree or disagree. So if you’ve been resistant to get on the bandwagon about climate change or you’ve been straddling the fence, you may as well jump in and get wet. It looks like everyone else is!
Recent Stories
The “Souper Bowl” returns to Historic Downtown Manassas for First Friday on February 7, 2025, with a sold-out crowd ready to sample soups from top local restaurants. Attendees will explore downtown, tasting a diverse selection of soups—from classic Tomato Basil Bisque to bold Pork Belly Ramen and Cocoa Cloud Dessert Soup—served at various businesses. Participants will vote for their favorite, crowning one soup the ultimate winner. With new contenders and returning favorites, the event promises a flavorful journey. Missed out this year? Stay tuned for next year’s Souper Bowl and more exciting First Friday events in Manassas.
Award-winning brand Always Flavored is relocating across the street from 610 to 619 Caroline St., with plans to open by March 31, 2025. The move allows for an expanded selection of hot sauces, seasonings, and gourmet products, plus tastings and events.
The announcement comes as the brand celebrates recent award wins:
Ritabeata’s Mild Sauce – 2nd place (International Flavor Awards)
Peri Peri Sauce – 3rd place (2025 Scovie Awards)
A grand opening celebration is planned.
In this Potomac Local News Podcast episode, host Uriah Kiser sits down with Craig Wade, President of the Prince William Association of Realtors, and Matthew Rathbun, President-Elect of the Fredericksburg Area Association of Realtors. They discuss the latest trends in the local real estate market, the impact of rising interest rates, and the challenges first-time homebuyers face in Northern Virginia.
The conversation also dives into the region’s housing inventory, with insights on the growing demand for homes and the lack of affordable options, especially in areas like Prince William, Fredericksburg, and Stafford. Craig and Matthew share their predictions for 2025, the future of smart growth, and the importance of balancing development with affordability.
Looking for a furry friend who can steal your heart? Look no further than Chloe, the 5-year-old Maremma Sheepdog, waiting for her forever home at the Prince William County Animal Shelter.
Chloe isn’t just any dog—she’s an Italian superstar in livestock protection, with a personality as impressive as her heritage. This lovable lady may have a calm and gentle demeanor, but don’t let her laid-back attitude fool you—she’s a heart-stealer extraordinaire!
Chloe is ready to charm her way into your home, and she’s patiently waiting for someone special to give her the love she deserves. Are you ready to make room for Chloe in your life?
Visit the Prince William County Animal Shelter today to meet Chloe and other wonderful animals available for adoption. For more information or to contact the shelter, visit www.pwcva.gov/department/animal-services. Don’t wait—come see Chloe today, and you might just find your new best friend!
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
