Defense Secretary Leon Panetta’s news that President Obama and the department will ask for another round of Base Realignment and Closures, or maybe two more rounds, sparked fierce opposition in Congress and alarm in many military-heavy communities.

But not here. The possibility of a BRAC as early as 2013 with another in 2015 is seen by area leaders as more of an opportunity than a cause for concern.

“We’re ready to go,” said Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, sounding a theme. “I think we’ve all known that with shrinking budgets and everything else that there was a very real chance of another one. … We fully expected something to come out, whether it was a BRAC or a consolidation.”

The 2005 BRAC moved about 4,650 Army, Missile Defense Agency and other federal positions to Redstone Arsenal along with the new headquarters for the Army Materiel Command, the U.S. Army Security Assistance Command and much more. Battle said it is expected to create as many as 10,000 additional jobs in the region over the coming years.

Repeating that success would be good for the region and a hedge against possible program cuts, said Joe Ritch, longtime chairman of the Tennessee Valley BRAC Commission. The official deadline to complete the 2005 BRAC moves was only last September, and he said they’ve never really stopped planning for future rounds.

“I think we were a little surprised at 2013; I think that’s going to be the more difficult one to get through Congress,” Ritch said. “But if it’s 2013, we’re ready to go. If it’s 2015, we’re ready to go. And if it’s 2013 and ’15, we’re ready to go.”

The new BRACs would help cut the federal budget, costing some communities valued programs or even bases. But optimism runs high in Hunstville.

The 1995 BRAC, which brought Army aviation to the arsenal, and the 2005 moves have positioned the area well to prosper from another BRAC, said Madison Mayor Paul Finley. The region works together as an experienced team that can point to a successful track record, he said, and show defense officials how the Tennessee Valley can help them again.

“I am amazed at the amount of homework that this community does when it comes to understanding where our assets can make the biggest difference in helping the Army and the military accomplish their goals,” Finley said. “We’ve put ourselves in their shoes.”

Redstone Arsenal could, of course, lose something in a BRAC. The Army Ordnance Munitions and Electronics Maintenance School, 59th Ordnance Brigade and associated elements were moved from the arsenal in the 2005 BRAC. But Ritch believes that the losses would be more than offset by the gains.

And fears that we could lose some of the commands that just last year came here under the 2005 BRAC are baseless, he said.

“That would not make sense,” Ritch said. “The investments have been made, the returns are starting to come into place. That doesn’t make economic or military sense.”

Challenges ahead

The big 2005 BRAC also carried a price tag. Improvements to roads and schools are still being made to handle the additional traffic, students and families.

“The challenge continues to be funding,” said Madison County Commission Chairman Mike Gillespie.

Limited federal support is available for BRAC-related state and local projects. But much is now under way here, he said.

In the wake of the 2005 BRAC, highway and other improvement plans are in place, some funding has been secured, priorities are set and area governments are speaking with one voice as they meet with state lawmakers and others, he said. Unfortunately, budgets are tight and tax collections are down as everyone deals with a tough economy.

“I know Gov. (Robert) Bentley and the state are trying to gear up and get ready for one or more BRACs, if they happen,” Gillespie said. “We’re assured from the governor and from the highway director that when and as more funding becomes available we’re certainly at the top of the priority list. It’s just a matter of generating the revenue.”

“We are so much further ahead than we were with the last two BRACs,” Battle said. “We’ve got infrastructure in place, we’ve got road plans in place, we’ve got schools on the upswing.

“The track record shows that we have fulfilled all the promises we have made, plus more. And we’ve continued to work with the community and with Redstone Arsenal … through them being their best we become a success.”

Immigration law

One new concern is Alabama’s much-criticized immigration law, passed by the Legislature in 2011 and now facing legal challenges. Could it sway BRAC decision-makers?

“When you talk about liabilities? To me that would be a liability, whether real or imagined,” Finley said. “I absolutely am concerned about that.”

He said local officials have already heard from state legislators looking at areas of the law that need to be adjusted. He hopes they’re reaching out at all levels across the state.

Battle said no one he’s met with about BRAC and economic development has raised the immigration law as a problem. “That’s one of those issues that everybody is fully aware of. But they also let it work through the court systems,” he said, and will then decide if it’s a valid problem or not.

“The current form of the law, yes, it is a problem for our image and something that I hope (state lawmakers) materially repair,” Ritch said. “But I’m convinced, from what I understand, they are making changes to the law that need to be made. The faster the better.”

Meanwhile, Gillespie said the best way to address immigration, stereotypes and image problems is the “head-on” way employed during previous BRACs: Get people here to see for themselves.

“Invite people who are making those decisions into the community, get a feel for who we are, what we have to offer, see our quality of life, see what education is about, see what impact that immigration law has had on the community,” he said. “We generally come out well ahead of others on every issue. And that’s why we’ve been so successful.”

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•  Commuting costs and environmental efficiency have increasingly factored into home buying decisions due to higher energy costs, but also due to overall concern for the environment.
• Factors that are most important to buyers are those directly related to the buyers’ pocketbook.
• Heating and cooling costs were at least “somewhat” important to 87 percent of home buyers.
• Commuting costs were at least “somewhat” important to 73 percent of home buyers.

Now take a look at the Huntsville AL real estate sales for December.

Madison County/Huntsville AL Real Estate Sales Statistics 

Huntsville AL and Madison County saw an increase of 7% in sold listings in December 2011 when compared to November 2011.  The average list price decreased 1% to $194,072 and the average sales price decreased by 1% to $188,077.  The average price per square foot was up by $11 per square foot, while market times increased by 10 days.

Search all Huntsville AL real estate and Huntsville homes for sale.

Having lived in the Huntsville AL area for most of his life, Mike Manosky understands exactly what makes this community special.  In fact, those who know him well will tell you he carries the same traditional values and focus on the future as Huntsville. 

Mike brings with him a keen eye for the details of buying or selling a Huntsville AL home and seemingly boundless determination and energy, which is why his clients benefit from his unique brand of real estate service. Rooted in Tradition, Focused on the Future – Mike Manosky will help make the most of your Huntsville AL real estate experience. Give him a call today, 256-508-0211 Direct or 800-803-0053 Toll Free, and discover the difference he can make during your family’s move.

Statistics are based on information for the North Alabama Association of Realtors and are deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

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MLS#994060

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xOnh-SufMno

Sprawling full brick home on a majestic mountain view lot! Just a short drive from Huntsville and you are in paradise! Featuring 4 bedrooms and a 24 x 21 recreation room there is something for the whole family in this home. The hardwood flooring throughout the main living areas is ideal for family and furry friends. An exciting great room with a gas fireplace offers super entertaining space. This designer kitchen is sure to please the cook in your family. Boasting gorgeous cabinets and counter space galore, stainless steel appliances plus a kitchen island, cooking is sure to be a pleasure. Relax mom and dad, this master suite is guaranteed to offer all the special conveniences you deserve at days end.  A teens dream come true bonus room with vaulted ceilings, two closets and sunny views is perfect for stashing the party goers. Rain or shine outdoor entertaining will be comforted under the covered patio. Everyone will have room to spread out in this amazing home.  Call today for your private tour.

Having lived in the Huntsville AL area for most of his life, Mike Manosky understands exactly what makes this community special.  In fact, those who know him well will tell you he carries the same traditional values and focus on the future as Huntsville.

Mike brings with him a keen eye for the details of buying or selling a Huntsville AL home and seemingly boundless determination and energy, which is why his clients benefit from his unique brand of real estate service. Rooted in Tradition, Focused on the Future – Mike Manosky will help make the most of your Huntsville AL real estate experience. Give him a call today, 256-508-0211 Direct or 800-803-0053 Toll Free, and discover the difference he can make during your family’s move.

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Search all Huntsville AL real estate and Huntsville homes for sale.

Having lived in the Huntsville AL area for most of his life, Mike Manosky understands exactly what makes this community special.  In fact, those who know him well will tell you he carries the same traditional values and focus on the future as Huntsville. 

Mike brings with him a keen eye for the details of buying or selling a Huntsville AL home and seemingly boundless determination and energy, which is why his clients benefit from his unique brand of real estate service. Rooted in Tradition, Focused on the Future – Mike Manosky will help make the most of your Huntsville AL real estate experience. Give him a call today, 256-508-0211 Direct or 800-803-0053 Toll Free, and discover the difference he can make during your family’s move.

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December 20 -28.  Hanukkah (or any one of a dozen spellings). 

This  Festival of Lights is an eight-day Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean revolt of the second century BCE. Hanukkah is observed for eight nights and days, starting on the 25th day of Kislev according to the Hebrew calendar, which may occur at any time from late November to late December in the Gregorian calendar. The festival is observed by the ;lighting of the candles on a nine-branched menorah, one candle on each night of the holiday, progressing to eight on the final night, and it is customary to give children one gift (gelt) each night.  Although it is based on a military victory, it is actually considered a time to celebrate Jewish independence and religious freedom in general.  Hanukkah is a relatively minor holiday in the Jewish year; in the United States, however, its closeness to Christmas has brought greater attention to Hanukkah and its gift-giving, special foods, and games.

December 25.  Christmas

The religious basis:   Christmas is a Christian holy day which celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. It is typically celebrated on December 25^th, and the word Christmas comes from “Christ’s mass.” The story of the birth of Christ is told in the opening chapters of the gospels of Luke and John.  Each contains different elements of the Christmas story. The visit of the Archangel to the shepherds and the birth of Jesus in a manger are from Luke. The story the visit from the Wise Men bringing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh are from Matthew.

Over the years Christmas has also become a very popular social holiday with an emphasis on lighted and decorated trees and wreaths, exchange of presents, caroling, special foods, and the colors red and green.  Christmas traditions abound throughout the Western world, many of which have secular origins, some with their roots in ancient folklore and pagan beliefs. Click here to learn about a wide range of Christmas customs.

December 26-January 1. 

Kwanzaa.  Neither political nor religious, Kwanzaa is a reflective holiday which was created in the 1960’s to foster pride and unity among African-Americans.  Kwanzaa is a week -long celebration honoring universal African-American heritage, family life, and culture. It features activities such as lighting a candle holder with seven candles—each representing an important principle of life–and culminates in a feast and gift giving.  Visit Wikipedia for much more information about this holiday.

December 31.  New Year’s Eve. 

New Year’s Eve is a social holiday observed annually on December 31, the final day of any given year in the Gregorian calendar. In modern societies New Year’s Eve is often celebrated at festive gatherings, during which participants dance, eat, consume alcoholic beverages, and watch or light fireworks to say goodbye to the current year and celebrate the incoming one. The observance of New Year’s Eve generally extends through midnight of January 1.  It is a holiday celebrated throughout the world and has many different names.  The dropping of the ball in Times Square and the singing of Auld Lang Syne are symbolic of this holiday in the U.S.           

Here are outstanding power point presentations dealing with each of these holidays. Although the site is designed primarily for children, the extensive array of topics and interesting information provides excellent reading for adults, too.

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At this time of year when lists play such a large role in our lives, it is also necessary to revisit a safety checklist to ensure an accident-free holiday for your family, guests, and even your pets.  The U.S. Fire Administration offers these suggestions:

DECORATIONS:

• Inspect lights for damage and link no more than 3 strands together.  Use only UL approved and follow directions.
• Beware of overloading outlets. 
• Don’t leave on when you’re not home.
• If you prefer a live tree, make certain it is fresh when you buy it and water, water, water!
• Use non-flammable or flame retardant decorations
• Never leave lighted candles unattended, near combustible materials, or within reach of children or pets.  Make certain to extinguish them before retiring for the night.

FIREPLACES:

• Place the tree in your Huntsville real estate at least 3 feet away from the fireplace.
• Keep a screen in front of the fire to prevent flying sparks.
• Remove stockings hung with care when the fireplace is in use.
• Never burn wrapping paper in your fireplace and risk a flash fire.

GUESTS:

• When entertaining friends at your Huntsville real estate, be certain that you have childproofed your home–not just to protect breakables but also to protect young ones.
  
• Make sure that outside walkways and steps are well lighted.
• Use nightlights in hallways and bathrooms.
• Add non-slip mats in your tub and shower–and possibly grab bars for the older set.

PETS:

• Avoid feeding the cats or dogs which also reside in your Huntsville real estate food such as rich and fatty fowl meat, onions, grapes, raisins, or chocolate.
• Do not give animals turkey bones as they will splinter and cause great damage.
• Keep all trash out of reach.  Better yet, take it outside frequently.

Got all that?  If so, relax and enjoy the season!

Search all Huntsville AL real estate and Huntsville homes for sale.

Having lived in the Huntsville AL area for most of his life, Mike Manosky understands exactly what makes this community special.  In fact, those who know him well will tell you he carries the same traditional values and focus on the future as Huntsville. 

Mike brings with him a keen eye for the details of buying or selling a Huntsville AL home and seemingly boundless determination and energy, which is why his clients benefit from his unique brand of real estate service. Rooted in Tradition, Focused on the Future – Mike Manosky will help make the most of your Huntsville AL real estate experience. Give him a call today, 256-508-0211 Direct or 800-803-0053 Toll Free, and discover the difference he can make during your family’s move.

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• 12/01/2011 – 12/30/2011
• Times: Tues.-Sat. 10 AM-4 PM & Sun. Noon-4 PM
• Address: 3101 Burritt Drive Huntsville, AL 35801
• Phone: (256) 536-2882
• Admission: Admission charged
• Venue: Burritt on the Mountain

Step into a magical world of holiday delight, as the already beautiful Burritt Mansion is decked out for the holidays by local designers & decorators.  It will amaze young & old alike.

COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS TREE DISPLAY

• 12/01/2011 – 12/30/2011
• Times: Mon.-Thurs. 9 AM-9 PM, Fri.-Sat. 9 AM-5 PM & Sun. 1-4 PM
• Address: 915 Monroe Street Huntsville, AL 35801
• Phone: (256) 532-5940
• Admission: No admission charged
• Venue: Huntsville Public Library

The annual display takes place throughout the Main Library during the month & it is enjoyed every year by young & old alike.

• 12/01/2011 – 12/21/2011
• Times: Mon.-Fri. 9 AM-4:30 PM
• Address: AL A&M, James Wilson Building Normal, AL
• Phone: (256) 372-5846
• Admission: Admission charged
• Venue: State Black Archives Research Center & Museum

The exhibit includes traditional artifacts & other arts & crafts that reflect the creative aspects of celebrating Kwanzaa.

GALAXY OF LIGHTS DRIVE-THROUGH

• 12/01/2011 – 12/31/2011
• Times: 5:30-9 PM
• Address: 4747 Bob Wallace Avenue Huntsville, AL 35805
• Phone: (256) 830-4447
• Admission: Admission charged
• Venue: Huntsville Botanical Garden

Join the tradition by driving through the winter light extravaganza in the warmth of your car. See thousands of twinkling lights with old favorites & fabulous new animated displays.

SANTA’S PIT ROW

• 12/01/2011 – 12/31/2011
• Times: 5-9 PM
• Address: 1 Tranquiltiy Base Huntsville, AL 35805
• Phone: (256) 837-3400
• Admission: No admission charged
• Venue: U.S. Space & Rocket Center

We invite you to join us at Santa’s Pit Row, located at the new entrance for the Galaxy of Lights.

While at Santa’s Pit Row guests will have a photo opportunity with Santa and his rocket sleigh, are able to visit the live reindeer, play in the snow area, make smores over the fire and enjoy other holiday treats available for purchase. Plus make that one last restroom stop before entering the Botanical Gardens.

SANTA’S VILLAGE

• 12/01/2011 – 12/23/2011
• Times: 5-9 PM
• Address: 109 Gates Avenue Huntsville, AL 35801
• Phone: (256) 564-8100
• Admission: Admission charged
• Venue: Alabama Constitution Village

Young & old alike will delight in visiting Santa & Mrs. Claus’ home, the reindeer in their stable & elves in their toy shop working busily to create special memories for you & your family in the village Santa calls home.

Search all Huntsville AL real estate and Huntsville homes for sale.

Having lived in the Huntsville AL area for most of his life, Mike Manosky understands exactly what makes this community special.  In fact, those who know him well will tell you he carries the same traditional values and focus on the future as Huntsville. 

Mike brings with him a keen eye for the details of buying or selling a Huntsville AL home and seemingly boundless determination and energy, which is why his clients benefit from his unique brand of real estate service. Rooted in Tradition, Focused on the Future – Mike Manosky will help make the most of your Huntsville AL real estate experience. Give him a call today, 256-508-0211 Direct or 800-803-0053 Toll Free, and discover the difference he can make during your family’s move.

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Huntsville AL Foreclosure Activity and 30 Year Interest Rate

Huntsville interest rates averaged 4.07% in October while the number of foreclosed homes increased from 67 to 87.

Foreclosure activity is based on the total number of properties that receive foreclosure filings – default notice, foreclosure auction notice or bank repossession – each month. Interest rate is based on the average 30-year fixed rate from Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey.

Huntsville AL Foreclosure Geographical Comparison

Huntsville AL foreclosure activity in October was 0.09% below national statistics, 0.01% below state figures and 0.02% below Madison County statistics.

 Huntsville AL Foreclosure Activity by Month

The number of  Bank-Owned properties increased from 47 in September to 48 in October. The number of Auctions increased from 20 to 39 and there is a 6-month rising trend in Huntville AL foreclosure activity.

Are you or someone you know behind on your mortgage payments and facing a Huntsville AL foreclosure? You do have options. A short sale may be the answer to saving you, your family and your home. Give me a call for a private consultation.

Search all Huntsville AL real estate and Huntsville homes for sale.

Having lived in the Huntsville AL area for most of his life, Mike Manosky understands exactly what makes this community special.  In fact, those who know him well will tell you he carries the same traditional values and focus on the future as Huntsville. 

Mike brings with him a keen eye for the details of buying or selling a Huntsville AL home and seemingly boundless determination and energy, which is why his clients benefit from his unique brand of real estate service. Rooted in Tradition, Focused on the Future – Mike Manosky will help make the most of your Huntsville AL real estate experience. Give him a call today, 256-508-0211 Direct or 800-803-0053 Toll Free, and discover the difference he can make during your family’s move.

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7096 Jacks Creek Lane, Owens Cross Roads AL 35763
MLS#803253

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k98hjtX1uzc

This sprawling home is brilliantly designed for a laidback lifestyle. As you drive up to this home you will want to ponder a moment and absorb the tranquil surroundings and lush landscaping. Come on in and take a look! Meander your way through on the hardwood floors and you will find yourself in over 3400 square feet of luxury. An elegant formal dining room is sure to please the most distinguished guests. Imagine all the delicious meals you can create in this stunning designer kitchen. Flourishing with gorgeous cabinets, lustrous granite counters and professional appliances, cooking is sure to be a pleasure. Family and friends can join the cook in the charming breakfast room combined with unsurpassed views. A southern styled great room invites you to start making those family memories around the see-thru fireplace flanked by arched entries to the tranquil sunroom.  A luxurious master retreat provides a soothing oasis of special conveniences and comforts at day’s end with an 11 foot trey ceiling, gleaming wood floors and recessed lighting.  A pampering master bathroom boasts a spa tub, custom shower, his and hers vanities, tile and a walk-in closet.  The additional bedrooms are generously sized and feature private bathrooms. An enormous bonus room is ideal for recreational fun. Grab a good book and step out on the multi-level decking, persuading you to unwind with captivating mountain views. This is a place one could happily linger throughout the day. Soothe your worries away in the built-in hot tub. Nestled in mountain views, this beauty will not last long. Call today for your private tour.

Having lived in the Huntsville AL area for most of his life, Mike Manosky understands exactly what makes this community special.  In fact, those who know him well will tell you he carries the same traditional values and focus on the future as Huntsville. 

Mike brings with him a keen eye for the details of buying or selling a Huntsville AL home and seemingly boundless determination and energy, which is why his clients benefit from his unique brand of real estate service. Rooted in Tradition, Focused on the Future – Mike Manosky will help make the most of your Huntsville AL real estate experience. Give him a call today, 256-508-0211 Direct or 800-803-0053 Toll Free, and discover the difference he can make during your family’s move.

Search all Huntsville AL real estate and Huntsville homes for sale.

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Sarah Joespha Hale, author Mary Had a Little Lamb, campaigned vigorously for 20 years to have Thanksgiving made a national holiday.  Five presidents turned a deaf ear to her pleas, but Abraham Lincoln listened, and on October 3, 1863, he declared that the last Thursday in November would be a national holiday.  Sarah was also the one who urged that the Thanksgiving feast include such foods as turkey, stuffing, pumpkin pie, cranberry sauce, and mashed potatoes of two kinds.  Sound familiar?

And speaking of food, are you thankful for the abundance of our planet?  Show your gratitude by implementing these “green” suggestions for your holiday meal:

• Use organic cranberries, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin
• Shop at a famers’ market
• Start a compost pile with all your leftovers

Click here for other earth-friendly holiday ideas.

Interested in giving traditional foods a modern twist?  Try baby greens with fennel, wheatberry stuffing, and wild mushroom gravy.  What about shredded Brussels sprouts or cranberry spinach salad?  For recipes for these dishes and other updated foods, visit the web sites of Good Housekeeping and Allrecipes.

What do you get when you divide the circumference of a pumpkin by its diameter?  Pumpkin Pi!

“Thanksgiving, after all, is a word of action.”
William Jennings Bryan

Giving back…Thanksgiving is a perfect time to share our blessings with those less fortunate than we are and to spread the spirit of friendship and community.  Opportunities for helping others during the holiday season are many and can involve one individual or the entire family.  Some ways to foster goodwill and embrace the idea of sharing include:

• Collecting and contributing non-perishable foodstuffs for a local food bank.
• Giving money to local agencies who feed the hungry.
• Volunteering your time to sort supplies, set up and/or clean up, or serve meals on Thanksgiving Day.
• Inviting a neighbor who lives alone to join you for dinner.
• Taking a warm plate of Thanksgiving food–and a big smile–to a shut-in.
• Contributing to holiday food collection bins in grocery stores.
• Purchasing pre-packaged boxes of food (generally under $10.00) to be distributed by local grocers.
• Checking with your local place of worship to see where you help is most needed.

And remember our military personnel… by contacting A Million Thanks, a year-round campaign to show our appreciation for our U.S. military men and women, past and present, for their sacrifices, dedication, and service to our country through our letters, emails, cards, and prayers.  Over 5 million pieces of mail have been sent to date.  Zazzle will send free holiday cards to military folks, and Coupons to Troops has a great program in which you donate unwanted or expired coupons to military families living overseas.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL!  Remember to be grateful for what you have and to “give thanks for unknown blessings already on the way.”  (Native American saying)

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