The summer exhibit kicks off on Saturday, May 5, with the opening of the butterfly house and a party in the Children’s Garden. We’ll get the party started with music and games from Steve Metz of Metropolitan DJ, as well as some incredibly talented face painters  and classically trained butterfly dancers. The butterfly artists will also be on hand to answer questions about their butterflies and to display their other works of art.

Huntsville Botanical Garden
4747 Bob Wallace Avenue
Huntsville, AL 35805
256-830-4447

Directions
Take I-565 exit #15 onto Bob Wallace Ave. The Garden is east about one-half mile on the right side of the road.

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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The latest MayFlowers initiative is a relief concert that will be held at AM Booth’s Lumberyard on 28 April 2012. The goals are to renew the energy of the relief effort, remember those who were effected by the 27 April 2011 tornadoes, and to celebrate the regrowth and incredible resilience of our community.

Where:

When:

Tickets:

Bands:

Sponsors:

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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Admission charged. 10 AM-Noon at Burritt on the Mountain, 3101 Burritt Drive Huntsville. The morning begins with light refreshments in the Trillium Room. The egg hunts begin promptly at 10:45 starting with the 3 & younger group. Visiting our barnyard animals, creating your unique Easter hat & designing your own greeting cards round out the morning’s festivities. For more info, call (256) 536-2882.

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Housing affordability conditions have reached the highest level since recordkeeping began in 1970, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

NAR’s Housing Affordability Index rose to a record high 206.1 in January, based on the relationship between median home price, median family income and average mortgage interest rate. The higher the index, the greater the household purchasing power. An index of 100 is defined as the point where a median-income household has exactly enough income to qualify for the purchase of a median-priced existing single-family home, assuming a 20 percent down payment and 25 percent of gross income devoted to mortgage principal and interest payments.

NAR projects the affordability index for all of 2012 will be at an annual high, with little movement in mortgage interest rates or home prices during the year.

What does affordability look like in our local real estate market? Take a look at February figures.

Madison County/Huntsville AL Real Estate Sales Statistics 

Huntsville AL and Madison County saw an increase of 11% in sold listings in February 2012 when compared to January 2012. The average list price decreased 4% to $182,555 and the average sales price decreased by 5% to $176,532.  The average price per square foot decreased by 4%, while market times increased by 3 days.

 For more information about Huntsville AL real estate, please visit MoveToHuntsville.com or call me at 256-508-0211. 

To begin searching Huntsville AL homes, please use my complimentary MLS search.  

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

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35th Annual Ellen McAnelly Memorial St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Begins at the intersection of Spraggins Street and Monroe Street in downtown Huntsville, outdoor activities, performing arts and other activities. 11:30 a.m.

Acting up! Academy of Dramatic Arts

8402 B Whitesburg Drive (256-270-9636)

Irish Insanity Improviganza with comedy troupe Nuclear ReActors. Tickets are $8, children under 8 are free.

Bench Warmer

2998 University Drive (256-539-6268)

St. Patrick’s Day party with live music by Random Conflict, The Dirty Swagger and The Casket Kids. Food and drink specials and giveaways. Doors open at 11 a.m., first show at 9:30 p.m. $5 for ages 21 and over, $10 for ages 19 and 20.

Bench Warmer Too

3000 University Drive (256-539-6268)

St. Patrick’s Day party with “Party Like It’s Panama” beach theme for spring break. DJ Yella Boy mix tape release party, bikini contest, food and drink specials. Party begins at 8 p.m. Get in free by wearing beach attire until 11 p.m.

Brickhouse Sports Café

7 Town Center Drive (256-585-1599)

Live music with Josh Allison on the patio, the Providence fountain will be dyed green, specials include $5 Irish Car Bomb, $5 Jameson shot, $4 Bushmills shot, $3 Guinness pints, $3 Smithwick pints. 4 p.m.

Carson’s Grille

6585 U.S. 431, Owens Cross Roads (256-585-1842)

Live music with Alex and Hunter of .45 Surprise. Drink and food specials, including $2 beer. 9 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Crossroads Cafe

115 Clinton Ave. (256-533-3393)

Saint Patrick’s Day Celebration, live music with Kush. Doors open at 9 p.m.

Drink specials include $2 Green Coors Light Draft, $3.50 Killians Red, $4.25 Guiness (16 oz.), $5 Irish Whiskey, $6 Irish Car bombs.

Finnegan’s Irish Pub

3310 S. Memorial Parkway (256-881-9732)

Live music with Nancy Pendergrass. Lunch of corned beef and cabbage and Irish stew. Guinness and Bud Light on tap, Jameson and Bushmills Irish Whiskey. 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Flying Monkey Arts Center at Lowe Mill

2211 Seminole Drive (256-489-7000)

“All Star” St. Patrick’s Day Celebration, live music with a 10-piece band featuring top Irish music players from the Tennessee Valley area. 7:30 p.m. $8 admission.

Furniture Factory

619 Meridian St. (256-539-8001)

Live music with Fatso, new patio grand opening. 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Humphrey’s Bar & Grill

109 Washington St. (256-704-5555)

Live music with Bourbon and Shamrocks, 3 to 7 p.m., and Black Eyed Susan, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Doors open at 11 a.m.

Huntsville-Madison County Public Library (Main)

915 Monroe St. (256-532-5940)

Story Time with the Irish Dancers, books about all things green, St. Patrick’s day crafts. All ages. 10:30 a.m.

Huntsville Young Professionals

115 Clinton Ave. (256-533-3393)

Beer tasting at Crossroads Cafe, music, food, drinks and door prizes. 4 to 8 p.m. $10 in advance for a VIP pass with two drink tickets, $15 at the door.

Lone Goose Saloon

108 Cleveland Ave. (256-715-0705)

Live music with The Robertsons. 8 p.m. to 12 a.m.

The Nook Tavern

3305 Bob Wallace Ave. (256-489-0911)

St. Patrick’s Day party with Murphy’s Irish Stew, bangers and mash, keep the glass when you buy from selected Irish beers. Noon.

Sammy T’s Music Hall

116 Washington St. (256-539-9974)

St. Patrick’s Day Party, $4 green pitchers, $1 jello shots, specials on Irish shots and drinks, party favors, DJ Keibot. 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Stem & Stein

10871 County Line Road (256-325-3779

St. Patrick’s Day Party, live music with Alyssa Jacey from 7 to 9 p.m., corned beef panini and homemade potato salad for $9.99, $3 Straight to Ale Rocket City Red and Boulevard Irish Red, green beer (Green Flash IPA) and $5 Hands wines, including chardonnay.

Straight to Ale brewery

3200 Leeman Ferry Road

Live music with Whiskey River Kings, release of Rocket City Red, a traditional Irish Red Ale and all standard beers will be on tap. 2 to 8 p.m.

The Sports Page Lounge & Deli

9009-M S. Memorial Parkway (256-880-9471)

Live music with 5ive O’clock Charlie at 4 p.m. and Bourbon and Shamrocks starting at 9 p.m. Irish food and drink specials.

Voodoo Lounge

110 South Side Square (256-539-0335)

St. Patrick’s Day Party, live music with Fistful of Beard. Drink and food specials. 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Wilcoxon Municipal Ice Complex

3185 Leeman Ferry Road (256-883-3774)

Shamrock Skate. 1 to 4 p.m. $7 to skate, $3 to rent skates. $1 off if you wear green.

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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MLS#686193

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0nsiN80duQg

Large windows adorn this home with breathtaking views! A bright and airy floor plan with gleaming wood floors and detailed molding is centered on a double gas fireplace. Sprawl out in the inviting great room boasting soaring ceilings and spectacular backyard views. The delicious kitchen features gorgeous cabinets, counter space galore plus serving bar. Wakeup to panoramic bay window views in the sunny breakfast area. A distinguished formal dining room is accented by a dazzling chandelier, columns and detailed moldings. The luxurious master suite features soaring ceilings, a toasty fireplace, deck access and a sitting area with bay window views. A pampering master bathroom features dual vanities, a walk-in shower and a bubbly whirlpool tub. The additional bedrooms are designed for comfort and share a hall bathroom. A super recreation room with vaulted ceiling, recessed lighting and a full bathroom is an ideal man cave. Extensive decking overlooks natural stone landscaping and mature trees. The ultimate privacy awaits you! 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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Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus Presents Dragons is coming to the Von Braun Center Arena April 26-29.

Tickets are $11 to $70 for celebrity circus seating and will be on sale at the VBC box office and Ticketmaster locations or ticketmaster.com. For group rates and information, call 256-603-2420. Children ages 2 and up must have a ticket

During the new Dragons show, circus-goers will see Shaolin Kung Fu Warriors, charging Cossack riders, Asian elephants, tigers, the Globe of Steel and continued glimpses of the Dragon. But what will it take to lure a true dragon from its golden lair? You’ll have to come to the show and see.

The circus includes an all-access pre-show an hour before the show to all ticket holders. Families can join pre-show host Andre McClain and participate in interactive experiences such as learning juggling and balancing skills, get performer autographs, see one of the Asian elephants paint a picture and meet the Ringling Bros. clowns.

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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We’re celebrating Alabama Food all year long in 2012!

From gulf coast seafood, to gourmet cuisine and BBQ we’re celebrating all that Alabama Food has to offer! Join us this year as we indulge in 2012. And visit this new website, Year Of Alabama Food,  for Alabama recipes, restaurants, farmers mrkets, and Alabama food trails!

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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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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