Grand Rapids is one of the most prosperous and dynamic cities in the State of Michigan. With a population just under 200,000 it has an exceptionally strong cultural presence for a mid-sized city. Grand Rapids is home to several private colleges including Calvin College, Acquinas College, as well as the Grand Rapids Community College. Nicknamed the "Furniture City", Grand Rapids…...

Just east of Morehead City, Beaufort, North Carolina is a charming and friendly small town of about 4700 by the sea. Pronounced Bow-furt, it is not to be confused with the South Carolina city of the same name, pronounced B'yoo-furt (see the Retirement Guide to Beaufort, SC). The Hatteras barrier islands sweep away to the east, and ferries will take you…...

A college town with 40,000 students, Bloomington is located in south central Indiana. It's a typical Midwestern university city, bustling with frequent festivals, sporting events and concerts.  The flagship campus of Indiana University is here, which is unusually beautiful. With a lower cost of living, plenty of art galleries, and a music arts center, there's plenty to like about Bloomington. …...

Franklin County is located in Northeast Texas, 72 miles southwest of Texarkana and 96 miles northeast of Dallas on Interstate 30.  Mount Vernon, the county seat, has been selected a Main Street City because of its historic preservation, museums, a diversified community of gifted artists, and a superb quality of life.  Franklin County (population just over 10,000) has been designated…...