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#758871

Nestled on a private cul-de-sac lot this gem is sure to please. A lovely formal dining room combined with an elegant formal living room is ideal for entertaining. Imagine all the delicious meals you can create in this gourmet kitchen. Flourishing with an abundance cabinet and counter space, a smooth-top range, a center island plus a huge pantry, cooking is sure to be a pleasure. An impressive family room with soaring ceilings, skylights and patio access is just waiting for family fun. A luxurious master retreat provides a soothing oasis of special conveniences and comforts at day’s end with a trey ceiling, two walk-in closets and sunny views. The pampering master bathroom features a garden tub, separate shower and dual raised vanities. The additional three bedrooms are generously sized and there are two additional full bathrooms.  Bring all your toys as the two car garage plus a detached storage building is ready for stocking. Mosey out on the patio or relax in the screened porch. The private backyard is ideal for grilling and chilling. This the perfect place to call home. Call today for your personal 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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• 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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For 5 nights, walk at your own pace through the winter wonderland of holiday lights, enjoy the sounds of the season & see real-life nursery rhyme characters & of course, Santa.  Children can make gifts & warm refreshements will be available.  No cars allowed on these nights.

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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It’s nearly that time of year again—Halloween, a time of ghosts and ghouls, tricks and treats, and costumes and candy!  Did you know that Halloween is second only to Christmas in terms of spending?  Yep–$1.2 million on costumes and another $2.5 million on candy, decorations, and other themed paraphernalia! 

Other little-known facts include:

• 86% of Americans decorate their houses.                                                  
• 10% of pet owners costume their pets. (Click here for unique ideas)
• 35 million pounds of candy corn are produce yearly. (How many are consumed in your Huntsville home?)

Halloween traditions are many and varied.  “Tis the night for donning a costume, wearing a mask, bobbing for apples, and, the children’s favorite—trick-or-treating.  Looking for something different to give to the little ones coming to your Huntsville home this year?  How about juice boxes, mini-marshmallows, popcorn balls, fruit roll-ups, 4 pack crayons, small glo-sticks, silly erasers, themed pencils, or goldfish snacks?

Ghoulish Groaners:  

What is a mummy’s favorite music?    Wrap
Best Halloween insurance?  Mediscare
Favorite drink of ghosts and goblins?  Ghoulade    

Carving a Jack-o-Lantern: 

Be your pumpkin orange, white, green, and yes, even blue, you want the face on the porch of your Huntsville home to be individual and unique.  Get free templates to assist you in carving or for cut and paste faces here.

If you see a spider on Halloween, the spirit of a loved one is watching over you.

Costumes: 

Forget the old standbys of ghost and witch.  Get creative and think about the unusual.  A bearded lady? A cupcake?  Or perhaps popcorn or an aquarium?  Although the web is filled with sites which sell costumes, you can express yourself by making your own garb.  Check out CostumeIdeaZone.com for silly, serious, and/or super fast ideas.

A kid came up with a bright idea to dress up as an IRS Agent. This way he could take 28% of the man’s candy and leave without saying ‘Thank You!’ J)))

PROJECTS AND ACTIVITIES FOR THE YOUNG AND YOUNG AT HEART CAN BE FOUND AT Caboose.com, Halloween.com, ZombiePumpkins.com, and TheTeachersCorner.net.  For creative ideas such as wicked wreaths, friendly ghosts, fright lights, tasty treats, and much, much more, visit LowesCreativeIdeas.com.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!  

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Scarecrow Trail at Botanical Garden

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Mayor Tommy Battle credits Huntsville’s ranking to his administration’s commitment to prioritize children’s health and welfare through the City’s Parks and Recreation department.

“Childhood obesity is a major social and health problem here in this country,” said Mayor Battle. “Our objective is to have a playground within walking distance of every child in Huntsville so that any child can have unstructured play, anytime, on a safe, state of the art, play ground.”

Only one and five children in the United States lives within walking distance of a playground. That’s not the case in Huntsville. The City currently has 66 public playgrounds, comprised of 42 City of Huntsville parks and 24 Huntsville City School playgrounds.

In the past year alone, Huntsville’s total expenditures for capital projects and improvements of playspaces for children was $275,000. The City’s cost to maintain playspaces was $435,000. In total, that’s more than $700,000 in funds dedicated to improving the mental, social, and physical welfare of our children.

The City, however, can’t do it alone. The EveryBody Can Play Playground in Brahan Spring Park is a testament to the community’s creativity and spirit in helping to provide a handicap-accessible playground for children and adults. Community groups, non-profit organizations and businesses contributed $325,000 for the project.

“This project was the focus of the local Optimist and Kiwanis Clubs, and what was most impressive was that we had more than 900 people contribute through physical work or fundraising,” said Greg Patterson, Director of Parks and Recreation.

Patterson says the City is now working on plans to incorporate a water park in the Everybody Can Play Playground.

Just last year, a KaBOOM and Home Depot grant helped Huntsville fund another major playground for the James A. Lane Boys & Girls Club in Lincoln Village. Hundreds of volunteers, including corporate and civic organizations, helped contribute time and money to the project.

“Huntsville is honored to be recognized and supported by KaBOOM!,” said Mayor Battle. “Hopefully, this will inspire adults and children to remember to take time out and play. There is always a park just around the corner.”

Huntsville is one of three cities in the state and among 151 in the country to be recognized as a “Playful City USA.”

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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Tickets are available for purchase at the VBC Box Office, www.ticketmaster.com, by phone at 800-745-3000 and all Ticketmaster outlets.

InSideOut Tickets are $75* and include admission to the Big Spring Jam Festival as well as a reserved seat in the VBC Propst Arena to enjoy the artist playing on the WDRM stage presented by Landers McLarty Nissan on BOTH Friday and Saturday.

InSideOut Friday and InSideOut Saturday Tickets are $37.50* and include admission to the Big Spring Jam Festival as well as a reserved seat in the VBC Propst Arena on the WDRM stage presented by Landers McLarty Nissan Mercedes Benz Toyota. Friday ticket includes Alan Jackson with Drake White, Doug McDonald and Cecilia Halsey. Saturday ticket includes Josh Turner with Thompson Square, The Springs, Logan Mize and Madison Station.

The OutSide Two Day* Ticket allows you access to the outside stages at the Big Spring Jam on both Friday and Saturday.

The OutSide One Day* Ticket allows you access to the outside stages at the Big Spring Jam on either Friday or Saturday.

*Convenience & Facility Fees May Apply

Children

Festival admission is free** to Children 10 and under with adult purchase.

** When purchasing InSide Out tickets, children who have reach their 2nd birthday will require a ticket for admission to the WDRM stage presented by Landers McLarty Nissan inside the VBC Propst Arena.

Dates & Times

Gates Open:
Friday, September 23, 2011 5:30 p.m.
Saturday, September 24, 2011 4:00 p.m.

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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