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Believe in Better:
FIREWORKS, FIRE TRUCK & FUN!
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Every year Prickly Pear Fireworks sets out to wow the community with a free fireworks display supported by donations from individuals and local businesses. The annual 4
th
of July show gets underway between 10:00 and 10:30 PM dazzling viewers with explosions of light and color in the skies above East Helena. Because of its location, Mountain View Meadows has some of the best viewing spots around, drawing people from all over the Helena area. With so many people coming out to watch the fireworks, it seemed like a great time to add a little flare for the kids at ground level. This year, Mountain View Meadows and Chicago Title will sponsor two inflatable "Jackalope Jump" bounce houses at Mountain View Park from 6:30 to 10:00 PM. A "Wild West" house for the little tykes and a "Fire Station" for kids 6-12 will be set up by Jackalope Jump in the open area between the pavilion and the amphitheater. JUMPING IS FREE!--but parents must sign a waiver. A representative from Jackalope Jump will be on hand with waivers and to monitor kids going in and coming out of the houses so that every child gets as many turns inside as he or she wants! Of course, there are plenty of things to do for people of all ages at the Park including playing horseshoes on of one the two regulation horseshoe pits or enjoying a game of sand volleyball, basketball or tennis. Also, while you're in the park or in the area getting ready to watch the Prickly Pear Fireworks display, grab a bite to eat from vendors set up along the northwest corner of the park. Vendors include "Cool Cat Hotdogs" serving beef dogs, smoked bratwurst, veggie dogs, lemonade and coke products and "Life House Coffee Truck" featuring all kinds of espresso drinks, tea, smoothies and Italian Soda. "Saigon Alley" will also be available with seasonal cuisine from Southeast Asia plus fried banana and peanut butter sandwiches for kids. These and other vendors will be ready to take your orders starting around 6:30 PM. There's always something better happening at Mountain View Meadows, so be sure to drop by Tuesday, July 4th
to enjoy our nation's 241st
celebration of its Declaration of Independence. And if you'd like to check out a new home while you're in the area, stop by the Information & Sales office at 431 S. Alice St. between 2 & 6 PM for a tour.
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Building a Better Community:
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Helena is a wonderful place to live during the summer months due to the variety of events going on each day of the week. These events are fun social gatherings that get you out of the house with an opportunity to give back to the community by donating money to local causes around town. First of all, we have Alive @ 5, which is a summer concert series that takes place every Wednesday during the months of June, July, & August. The series offers an entertaining event where food, drink and craft vendors, local bands and members of the community can celebrate summer in various parks and hot-spots in the Downtown area. Next, is the Farmer's Market held every Saturday
9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
on Fuller Avenue
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Only Montana agricultural products and hand-crafted items produced or manufactured by the vendors may be sold at the Helena Farmers' Market. Carroll College and the Helena Symphony Orchestra will "play that funky music" at the 14th annual Symphony Under the Stars on July 15, 2017. Three vocalists, including Broadway stars, recording artists, and an American Idol finalist, bring the music of the 70s and 80s to the Big Sky! Helena's 2017 Last Chance Stampede & Fair runs from July 26-29. It opens with a rodeo each night, 4-H exhibits, food vendors and carnival. Things really get going with the Night Show that begins at 7:30 PM on July 26th starring Country superstar Billy Currington in the Outdoor Arena. For additional information on all of these events that do their part to build a better community, you can visit www.helenaevents.com.
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On Topic:
THE BENEFITS OF TREES
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According to a government publication on urban forestation, the basis for the value of a tree could be emotional or aesthetic. But, as the publication points out, public spending on tree planting, tree care and management also reflects an approximate economic value of trees to a community.
However, it isn't just the community at large that derives an economic advantage from trees. Privately-owned property values increase in proximity to trees. In addition, trees located on a private parcel are typically included in calculations by real estate agents and appraisers in determining the value of a home. Homes with mature trees or located next to or near public spaces with mature trees benefit the most, yet planting trees as an investment for future economic benefits cannot be underestimated.
The Arbor Day Foundation is one of the strongest proponents of the benefit of trees. Its website at
www.arborday.org lists a number of studies and outcomes which demonstrate the advantages of trees. The following are some statistics from the website on the aesthetic, social and economic value of trees.
- The net cooling effect of a young, healthy tree [strategically placed] is equivalent to ten room-size air conditioners operating 20 hours a day. U.S. Department of Agriculture
- If you plant a tree today on the west side of your home, in 5 years your energy bills should be 3% less. In 15 years the savings will be nearly 12%. Dr. E. Greg McPherson, Center for Urban Forest Research
- A mature tree can often have an appraised value of between $1,000 and $10,000. Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers
- In one study, 83% of realtors believe that mature trees have a 'strong or moderate impact' on the salability of homes listed for under $150,000; on homes over $250,000, this perception increases to 98%. Arbor National Mortgage & American Forests
- Landscaping, especially with trees, can increase property values as much as 20 percent. Management Information Services/ICMA
- One acre of forest absorbs six tons of carbon dioxide and puts out four tons of oxygen. This is enough to meet the annual needs of 18 people. U.S. Department of Agriculture
- There are about 60 million to 200-million spaces along our city streets where trees could be planted. This translates to the potential to absorb 33 million more tons of CO2 every year, and saving $4 billion in energy costs. National Wildlife Federation
- Trees properly placed around buildings can reduce air conditioning needs by 30 percent and can save 20-50 percent in energy used for heating. USDA Forest Service
- Trees can be a stimulus to economic development, attracting new business and tourism. Commercial retail areas are more attractive to shoppers, apartments rent more quickly, tenants stay longer, and space in a wooded setting is more valuable to sell or rent. The Arbor Day Foundation
- Healthy, mature trees add an average of 10 percent to a property's value. USDA Forest Service
- The planting of trees means improved water quality, resulting in less runoff and erosion. This allows more recharging of the ground water supply. Wooded areas help prevent the transport of sediment and chemicals into streams. USDA Forest Service
- In laboratory research, visual exposure to settings with trees has produced significant recovery from stress within five minutes, as indicated by changes in blood pressure and muscle tension. Dr. Roger S. Ulrich Texas A&M University
- Nationally, the 60 million street (boulevard) trees have an average value of $525 per tree. Management Information Services
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Benefits and Updates:
MOUNTAIN VIEW MEADOWS
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1
. THE 4th OF JULY
: Some of you may have heard that the Reach Air medical transport helicopter was planned to be at the park on the 4th of July so kids could take a tour of the helicopter and parents could learn more about the service. A schedule change has affected this event but there will be Bouncy Houses set up for kids and a special deal from "Cool Cat Hotdogs" for residents. Just let the vendor know you live at Mountain View Meadows and you will get an exclusive 2 for $5.00 discount!
2.
WHEN TO WATER: As we shared last year, remember that once your grass is well established, you should be able to cut back on your watering to save money. But while we're in a dry spell, be sure your trees are getting plenty to drink. Don't panic if the leaves start to dry up. According to "experts", as long as there is green under the bark, your tree should survive. But the more you can do to take stress off your trees as they get established the more they'll grow to love you.
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New Homes F
or Sale:
PLANS TO BUILD AND BUILD TO SUIT
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A choice of new homes to meet your lifestyle and budget are ready for move-in at Mountain View Meadows with more under construction. Visit our Information & Sales Office at 431 S. Alice Street to tour our right-now homes, view plans to build and check out lot maps. Realtors always welcome. Have your own plan? Give us a call at 406-449-0800 to arrange a meeting. The availability of new homes and lots is subject to change so check back often. Below is a listing of some of the new homes ready for move-in or currently under construction.
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Aspen Park at Mountain View Meadows
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2938 Big Timber Loop: GORGEOUS SINGLE-STORY with all the style and quality you've come to expect from a Sierra Custom Home. Just shy of 2000 S.F., this brand new 3BD/2.5BA beauty includes a luxurious master suite, an office/flex room, walk-in pantry, fireplace, Hardieplank siding, concrete tile roof, stone and timber exterior accents, a 3-bay tandem garage and a covered outdoor living space. Stop by the office to check out the floor plan or contact Dawn Purvis, Century 21 at 406.439.6380 for additional information and pricing.
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2930 Big Timber Loop: NEW UPSCALE HOME PLAN underway with 2460 S.F. of single-story living with an additional 280 S.F. finished bonus space above the garage. Vaulted living room, corner fireplace, breakfast bar, a huge pantry, den/office, wood doors and trim, wood floors, granite and tile throughout, an oversized garage, stone and timber exterior features, a concrete tile roof with a 75 year warranty, Hardieplank siding, a beautiful front porch entry, a huge covered outdoor living space and a large 2-car garage are among the many amenities that set this home apart. Drop by the Information & Sales Center at 431 S. Alice St. to check out this brand new 3BD/2.5BA home plan priced at $415,900.
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Antelope Trace at Mountain View Meadows
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2785 Favor Loop: The Sun. T
otally framed and under roof, come see for yourself this upscale 1872 S.F., single-level Weatherall-built home. The open floor plan will wow you with space and livability. The Sun features a fireplace, gas stove, pantry, 8-lite panel double doors leading into the flex room off the great room, a master suite with separate tub and shower, granite and tile throughout, soft-close cabinets, a concrete front porch with craftsman design elements, and a covered concrete patio in back. Call 406.449.0800 to lay your claim to this new home priced at only $299,900.
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2781
Favor Loop:
The Big Sandy.
Single-story with a whopping 1903 S.F. makes this open floor plan exceptionally desirable at $299,900. The home features a huge great room with fireplace and vaulted ceiling, a light and beautiful master suite with double vanity and large walk-in closet, granite countertops, soft-close doors, and concrete porches front
and
back! Stop by the MVM office at 431 S. Alice St. for a personal walk-through or contact David Torgerson, Versant Real Estate Group, at 406.459.8565 for an appointment to view this exceptional Weatherall-built home. If you've seen this home, you'll want to sign a contract now before it is gone!
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| 491 Twilight - Known for their rustic natural finishes, this 3BD/2BA home by family owned and operated Grewett Construction will wrap you in style and comfort. With main floor living and an additional 1548 S.F. walk-out basement, you'll enjoy over 3,000 square feet to spread out with ample room to grow. This beautiful new home features knotty alder trim, great views and a rear upper deck. MLS#298491. $319,900. |
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Craftsman Village at Mountain View Meadows
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531, 533 & 535 S. Alice Street:
Three new condo units nearly finished; two 1213 S.F. single-story plans priced at $219,900, each with a 200 S.F. covered outdoor living space and a 1521 S.F. two-story priced at $214,900. All three condos feature soft close cabinets, laminate flooring and stainless appliances, plus attached 2-car garages. The single-story condos include granite counter tops and tiled master baths. Call 406.449.0800 for a private walk-through. MLS#297154
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| The Town Hall Main Floor |
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| The Town Hall Upper Floor |
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2793 Alexis Avenue: The Town Hall. Location, location, location--directly across from Mountain View Park with unobstructed mountain views! Construction just underway on this beautiful new 2-story 3BD/2.5BA classic craftsman home plan featuring a full front porch, spacious great room with fireplace, separate dining area, office nook, an upstairs loft (could be a 4
th
bedroom), air conditioning and a large 2-bay attached garage. $289,900. Call 406.449.0800 while there's still time to choose colors.
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Neighborhood:
Trees Make the Best Neighborhoods!
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Some places start with great trees. Other places recognize the value of trees and start day one planting them as an investment for the future. Young trees take time and care to nurture but their aesthetic and economic value is tremendous. It's interesting watching trees grow into beautiful assets to our neighborhoods. We took some photos this week of trees planted from 2009 through to 2017. It's easy to see from the photos how, in such a short time, what a difference trees make in building the best neighborhoods.
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BOULEVARD TREES PLANTED 2010 - 2014
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TREES PLANTED 2009 AT HOME IN ASPEN PARK
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BOULEVARD TREES PLANTED 2015-2017
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88 TREES PLANTED IN 2014 AT MOUNTAIN VIEW PARK
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EVEN CARRIAGE LANES (ALLEYS) GET TREES!
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2016 POCKET PARK TREES PLANTED
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NEW TREES BEHIND CONDOS, SPRING 2017
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Jeff Savage & Tracy Cook
Have now settled into their new home!
There are currently four homes under contract on Alexis Avenue and three condo units under contract on Alice Street. If you see any of these neighbors checking on the progress of their homes, be sure and say hello!
Congrat
ulations!
And Welcome to the Neighborhood!
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Fun & Fitness:
Luck is Headed Your Way!
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Want to get out this summer and enjoy the nice weather that Montana has to offer but not quite sure exactly what to do? Why not check out the Mountain View Park right in your back yard? Here is something you probably don't think of very often--a game of horseshoes! Interestingly enough, there are
numerous
health benefits of playing horseshoes for those of any age. The Top 10 Health Benefits of Horseshoes, taken from Health Fitness Revolution, are social activity, improved coordination, the virtue of patience, improved cell health, light cardio, mindfulness, flexibility, a more cheerful mood,
relieved stress and an increase in strategic planning.
Exercise, sociability, and sunlight are all proven to improve mood and contribute to living a happy and more satisfied life. Stop by the Mountain View Meadows Office at 431 S. Alice St. to borrow a pair of horseshoes and have a blast!
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With sadness, we want to let everyone know that Brittani, who has managed our Sales and Information Center this past year, will be returning to professional education. This upcoming school year Brittani will be teaching Sophomore English, 5-7 Grade Intensive Reading and Senior Journalism at Jefferson High School in Boulder. We wish Brittani tons of goodwill and thank her for being such a great asset. The bright side of losing Brittani is welcoming Danielle Prebil to our team. Danielle, a 2017 graduate of Montana State University, began training under Brittani nearly a month ago and has quickly caught on to the ins and outs of the office. Danielle earned a B.S. in Business Management with a minor in Entrepreneurship at MSU, a perfect foundation for assuming her new role at Mountain View Meadows. But working at MVM isn't her first go-round with business. During her senior year at MSU she and two close friends were consultants for "Mountain Maids of Montana" assisting the company in building its marketing campaign utilizing Instagram and Facebook and developing sales brochures. Mark says a lot of business sense is learned at the dining room table and Danielle is a great example. Thirty-seven years ago, Danielle's parents founded "Kleen King" (which recently merged with Dayspring Restoration) so she literally grew up in a business environment. In addition, Danielle's connections to the community run deep, having been born and raised in Helena just like her father and graduating from Helena High School. Although Danielle says she is still learning about Mountain View Meadows and its residents, she is excited to be here and thinks it will be fun. I put her on the spot by asking her what it's like working with us. She said, "You don't make me nervous," which we think is a reasonable place to start. Danielle also said she likes our vision and everything we've done. And I can say we sincerely like Danielle and know she will bring much joy to the office as we work together to continue to develop that vision.
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Wave Goodbye to Brittani!
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