I know what I'm about to write is true in most any market at this point in time, but for someone who has just a bit of capital available and wants to get in on the benefits of buying in a buyer's market, this is your chance!
There are a number of things coming together that make this a great time to buy more than just a home to live in. Interest rates are at historically low rates, there is a lot of supply on the market, sellers are starting to realize that they don't have as much bargaining room as they once did and, most importantly, a LOT of sub-prime, adjustable rate mortgages that were originated in the past couple years are coming due for their first adjustment.
It's really unfortunate that so many are going to lose their home to the bank. I wish it wasn't going to happen. However, it is a FACT that many will lose their homes in unfortunate circumstances. I've learned that you shouldn't feel bad about it, though. If you truly feel bad for them, perhaps you could help them out by taking over their payments for a few months or years. I know that sounds ridiculous, but I'm saying it to jar your thinking...yes, it's unfortunate that homes will be lost to the bank, but just remember: what someone else is going through is not really any fault of yours. In fact, some are saying that the government is to blame for not regulating lenders more over the past 5 years. If it is truly the case that buyers were put into homes that they could not afford, then one could even make an argument that it's even not the "fault" of the borrower!
Fact is, if you are able to purchase a home with instant equity and the seller is able to avoid foreclosure, you are doing both yourself AND the seller a favor. Why not look into what can be done to take advantage of what many are calling the "perfect foreclosure storm" and help people at the same time!
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Monday, March 26, 2007
Never Lived in the Midewst Before? Consider This!
Ok, so you're relocating to Scott Air Force Base and you've never lived in the Midwest. Here is something you may want to consider before you start looking at properties...
I'm originally from Virginia and never realized how important a basement is in this area. It's really incredible how quickly Spring weather can turn tornadic, but it happens pretty much every year. Residents of East Belleville and Shiloh, IL experience a small tornado in May, 2002 that resulted in many homes sustaining significant damage. Whiteside Middle School was among the targets of the tornado where more than $1 Million in damage was done. Read about it here.
In any case, what you want to consider before you start looking at homes is customizing your search to include homes that have basements. Where will you go when you hear those tornado sirens? If you don't have a basement, an interior room is best, but it's not nearly the protection you'll need in a bad storm. If someone tells you that your chances of getting hit are so low that you shouldn't worry about it, think again. There are more than 30 families in Villa Madero who where either thankful they had a basement or lamented its absence at the time the tornado hit.
Incidentally, in this particular case, I lived across the street from Villa Madero the night the tornado hit. I vividly remember going outside after the super cell passed overhead to be greeted by a BEAUTIFUL, bright moon and a very clear sky...so goes mother nature. Wild and tempestuous one moment, calm the next. It wasn't long after that that we started to hear helicopters, sirens, etc. What a night that was!
One final word of encouragement. Tornadoes in this area are sporadic. There have been some doozies, though, as you can see when you click here. My final advice: Buy a home with a basement, no matter what.
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
I'm originally from Virginia and never realized how important a basement is in this area. It's really incredible how quickly Spring weather can turn tornadic, but it happens pretty much every year. Residents of East Belleville and Shiloh, IL experience a small tornado in May, 2002 that resulted in many homes sustaining significant damage. Whiteside Middle School was among the targets of the tornado where more than $1 Million in damage was done. Read about it here.
In any case, what you want to consider before you start looking at homes is customizing your search to include homes that have basements. Where will you go when you hear those tornado sirens? If you don't have a basement, an interior room is best, but it's not nearly the protection you'll need in a bad storm. If someone tells you that your chances of getting hit are so low that you shouldn't worry about it, think again. There are more than 30 families in Villa Madero who where either thankful they had a basement or lamented its absence at the time the tornado hit.
Incidentally, in this particular case, I lived across the street from Villa Madero the night the tornado hit. I vividly remember going outside after the super cell passed overhead to be greeted by a BEAUTIFUL, bright moon and a very clear sky...so goes mother nature. Wild and tempestuous one moment, calm the next. It wasn't long after that that we started to hear helicopters, sirens, etc. What a night that was!
One final word of encouragement. Tornadoes in this area are sporadic. There have been some doozies, though, as you can see when you click here. My final advice: Buy a home with a basement, no matter what.
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Welcome to "The Shoppes at St. Clair Square"
If you're originally from St. Clair County or the surrounding counties of Madison, Monroe or Clinton Counties and drive through Fairview Heights these days, you'll see a lot of evidence of economic growth...namely the newest addition of retailers in Fairview Heights at The Shoppes at St. Clair Square.
Among the stores that are featured at The Shoppes are Banana Republic, Barnes & Noble, Ann Taylor LOFT, Chico's, Coldwater Creek, Jared the Galleria of Jewelry, Talbot's, Aveda, Jos. A Banks, J. Jill. As of opening day, only one retail bay was completely unoccupied.
To read about what was released in 2005 back when it was just a plan, click here.
You can read about one writer's experience of the Shoppes at St. Clair Square the first 2 days it was opened by clicking here.
If this is any indication of what's coming to our area, growth is here to stay! The only thing that will promise to be a bit unnerving is the traffic we'll see surrounding the mall at Christmas time. If misery loves company, then those who experience misery while visiting during the Christmas shopping rush can take heart-they won't be alone...hundreds of malls in other parts of the country will experience the same gridlock. The only solution that I've found to work 100% of the time is to get your shopping completed by October 31st. Good luck!
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
Among the stores that are featured at The Shoppes are Banana Republic, Barnes & Noble, Ann Taylor LOFT, Chico's, Coldwater Creek, Jared the Galleria of Jewelry, Talbot's, Aveda, Jos. A Banks, J. Jill. As of opening day, only one retail bay was completely unoccupied.
To read about what was released in 2005 back when it was just a plan, click here.
You can read about one writer's experience of the Shoppes at St. Clair Square the first 2 days it was opened by clicking here.
If this is any indication of what's coming to our area, growth is here to stay! The only thing that will promise to be a bit unnerving is the traffic we'll see surrounding the mall at Christmas time. If misery loves company, then those who experience misery while visiting during the Christmas shopping rush can take heart-they won't be alone...hundreds of malls in other parts of the country will experience the same gridlock. The only solution that I've found to work 100% of the time is to get your shopping completed by October 31st. Good luck!
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Mid-America To Become Major Freight Hub?
I thought I'd look back a bit to see how long the "air bridge" has been in the works in order to get an idea as to whether or not it is a blip on the radar, or something that's been going on for some time.
Seems this went public some time in September with the following released that same month. Click here.
Time will tell, but it looks like this may be something pretty big in the making. As of today, there is no other information out there about this news.
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
Seems this went public some time in September with the following released that same month. Click here.
Time will tell, but it looks like this may be something pretty big in the making. As of today, there is no other information out there about this news.
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Local Road Improvements, Chapter 5 continued, New Mississippi River Bridge
Just found a very interesting article that was published today by the Belleville News-Democrat, one of the main newspapers publisehed in comminities that surround Scott Air Force Base. Read it here. It all comes down to toll or no toll...
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
Wednesday, March 7, 2007
Mid-America Airport to Become Major Freight Hub?
The following is in my opinion something that will prove to be extremely important for our local economy, especially real estate for sale in O'Fallon, Shiloh, Swansea, Fairview Heights and Belleville, IL.
Mark Kern, the St. Clair County Board chairman, has signed the memorandum of understanding with the industrial authority of Batam, an island known for scores of electronics factories 12 miles off the coast of Singapore. The pact clears the way for direct cargo flights to begin between the two airports -- the only agreement of its kind between Indonesia and a U.S. airport -- though no flights have yet been scheduled.
Click here to get the full Belleville News-Democrate article for more details on teh March 9 announcement.
WOW! More to come in future blogs
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
Mark Kern, the St. Clair County Board chairman, has signed the memorandum of understanding with the industrial authority of Batam, an island known for scores of electronics factories 12 miles off the coast of Singapore. The pact clears the way for direct cargo flights to begin between the two airports -- the only agreement of its kind between Indonesia and a U.S. airport -- though no flights have yet been scheduled.
Click here to get the full Belleville News-Democrate article for more details on teh March 9 announcement.
WOW! More to come in future blogs
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
Local Road Improvements, Chapter 4, Gateway Connector Coming to Our Community?
This particular topic is one that incites quite a bit of excitement, no matter if you are in the "for" or "against" camp.
Yes, development is coming to the Metro East and there are always two sides to every story. The topic is what's called the Gateway Connector. It's a L-O-N-G-Term "beltway-like" main thoroughfare project that entails both expanding existing roadways and building new roadways where there currently are none. In general, it's a project that spans 37 miles through Madison, St. Clair and Monroe Counties whose purpose is to help accommodate an expected 25% increase in traffic volume for the Metro East by 2020. To get the initial overview of the project, simply go to http://www.dot.state.il.us/gateway/NL1.pdf
On the "for" side, there is a real need to help the traffic demands of the future get met as they increase. The FACT that growth is coming to this area is evidenced by the increase of New Single Family Residential Construction, the expansion of the mission of Scott Air Force Base in the wake of the 2005 BRAC Commission, the pending expansion of the role that Mid-America Airport plays in National and International air cargo traffic and this author's observation that the Metro East is becoming a more prominent option for those who work in Downtown St. Louis who in the past would have moved out to St. Charles, Warren and Western St. Louis Counties, MO. Expansion to our local economy is coming at all levels! Argument is centered NOT on whether nor not expansion is coming, but on what form it will take.
The detractors to the Gateway Connector are assumedly made up of a group of of land- business- and home-owners oppose the construction of the Gatwway Connector for a number of reasons. Also, the most recent newsletter gives a bit more understanding on what Stop 158 is all about. Read it here. A lot of what they say makes sense, mainly that growth does not HAVE to mimic the urban sprawl that has been seen in community after community, St. Louis included. The main message is: Let's grow smart!
As it stands now, according to http://www.dot.state.il.us/gateway/public2.htm, the construction process is a long way off...10 to 15 years from 2004. We are in the Phase 1 portion of the project right now. The project, if carried out, could be concluded some time by the year 2020 or 2025. This is a 20+ year road project that in the end may be caught dead in the water. Wow!
This author believes that there could be a HUGE benefit to the entire local economy if what Stop158 refers to as the "core" is paid more attention. There are some beautiful buildings that are more than a century old that, if located more toward the center of development rather than left lying in areas that are "passed over" by progress, could play a central role to the beauty of our local economy and "look and feel." Nothing is simple these days, but I agree that some intense thought should be given to this topic before we proceed down the path of "creating new" through what is currently lots of farmland and greenspace.
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
Yes, development is coming to the Metro East and there are always two sides to every story. The topic is what's called the Gateway Connector. It's a L-O-N-G-Term "beltway-like" main thoroughfare project that entails both expanding existing roadways and building new roadways where there currently are none. In general, it's a project that spans 37 miles through Madison, St. Clair and Monroe Counties whose purpose is to help accommodate an expected 25% increase in traffic volume for the Metro East by 2020. To get the initial overview of the project, simply go to http://www.dot.state.il.us/gateway/NL1.pdf
On the "for" side, there is a real need to help the traffic demands of the future get met as they increase. The FACT that growth is coming to this area is evidenced by the increase of New Single Family Residential Construction, the expansion of the mission of Scott Air Force Base in the wake of the 2005 BRAC Commission, the pending expansion of the role that Mid-America Airport plays in National and International air cargo traffic and this author's observation that the Metro East is becoming a more prominent option for those who work in Downtown St. Louis who in the past would have moved out to St. Charles, Warren and Western St. Louis Counties, MO. Expansion to our local economy is coming at all levels! Argument is centered NOT on whether nor not expansion is coming, but on what form it will take.
The detractors to the Gateway Connector are assumedly made up of a group of of land- business- and home-owners oppose the construction of the Gatwway Connector for a number of reasons. Also, the most recent newsletter gives a bit more understanding on what Stop 158 is all about. Read it here. A lot of what they say makes sense, mainly that growth does not HAVE to mimic the urban sprawl that has been seen in community after community, St. Louis included. The main message is: Let's grow smart!
As it stands now, according to http://www.dot.state.il.us/gateway/public2.htm, the construction process is a long way off...10 to 15 years from 2004. We are in the Phase 1 portion of the project right now. The project, if carried out, could be concluded some time by the year 2020 or 2025. This is a 20+ year road project that in the end may be caught dead in the water. Wow!
This author believes that there could be a HUGE benefit to the entire local economy if what Stop158 refers to as the "core" is paid more attention. There are some beautiful buildings that are more than a century old that, if located more toward the center of development rather than left lying in areas that are "passed over" by progress, could play a central role to the beauty of our local economy and "look and feel." Nothing is simple these days, but I agree that some intense thought should be given to this topic before we proceed down the path of "creating new" through what is currently lots of farmland and greenspace.
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
Local Road Improvements, Chapter 3, I-64 Expansion lane addition
Back to road imporvements, I thought I'd give a bit of information on an Interstate project that has been going for some time now but that is almost finished...expected to be finished by Summer 2007.
The project website, http://www.64addlane.com/, says the following:
This project includes widening the existing 7.7 miles of 4-lane pavement to 6 lanes with the addition of two, 24 ft wide lane additions. The road work includes bituminous resurfacing on I-64 from IL 157 in Caseyville to Greenmont Road in Shiloh, bridge replacements, bridge repairs, new highway lighting, new signing, upgraded traffic signals and reconstruction of IL 157. When the project is completed the interstate's existing capacity will increase approximately 50%, helping to alleviate traffic congestion from the 71,000 vehicles/day currently traveling through this corridor. The project was awarded to Fred Weber. Inc of Maryland Heights, MO at a cost of approximately $56 million.
Although this will help lots, the morning, St. Louis-bound commuters will probably still deal with traffic snarls as they approach the St. Louis bridges. Certainly growth in the Metro East will directly be facilitated by the expansion of this traffic artery!
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
The project website, http://www.64addlane.com/, says the following:
This project includes widening the existing 7.7 miles of 4-lane pavement to 6 lanes with the addition of two, 24 ft wide lane additions. The road work includes bituminous resurfacing on I-64 from IL 157 in Caseyville to Greenmont Road in Shiloh, bridge replacements, bridge repairs, new highway lighting, new signing, upgraded traffic signals and reconstruction of IL 157. When the project is completed the interstate's existing capacity will increase approximately 50%, helping to alleviate traffic congestion from the 71,000 vehicles/day currently traveling through this corridor. The project was awarded to Fred Weber. Inc of Maryland Heights, MO at a cost of approximately $56 million.
Although this will help lots, the morning, St. Louis-bound commuters will probably still deal with traffic snarls as they approach the St. Louis bridges. Certainly growth in the Metro East will directly be facilitated by the expansion of this traffic artery!
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
Local Road Improvements, Chapter 2, New Mississippi River Bridge
What an amazing thing to watch how politics works. I haven't been around the world yet, so it's possible this has happened before, but it's a first for me. It's hard for me to imagine two states wrangling over the terms of a bridge as much as Illinois and Missouri have gone at it over the past months and years, but this is what's recently developed with our local "bridge expansion."
There is a strong will, both at the political and civilian level, to install a new bridge over the Mississippi River. The main 2 bridges that are currently used, the Poplar Street Bridge and the MLK (Martin Luther King) bridge, are frequently taxed out during the morning and afternoon rush hours. If there's lots of traffic now, we can only imagine where it will be in the coming years as the Metro East continues to grow.
Nonetheless, the will to pay for the bridge seems to be coming more from Illinois than Missouri. The reason is clear...Illinois motorists are the chief beneficiaries for the bridge. It's my opinion, however, that the benefit will be strong for Missouri business too, specifically for Downtown St. Louis. Therefore, it seems that both states should pony up significantly. Missouri has favored a toll bridge...let the drivers, who are mostly Illinoisians, pay for it each day, right?
Illinois was not as quikly in favor of a toll. In any case, on February 21, a 12-10 vote passed both states' support for the coupler bridge. What's next? Only time will tell, but if the toll feature comes back as a reality, a local radio celebrity on KMOX was known to say "look, just get it passed as a toll bridge, build it, then once it's in service and no one's using it because of the toll feature, the States will have to take over, the toll will be lifted, and we'll have our "toll-less" bridge. I disagree...what if the toll is not lifted and the new bridge continues to suffer from low traffic volumes? I think it's best to agree to a plan that will work going forward, not just in the short term.
Read more about the bridge on the official bridge website set up by the Missouri Department of Transportation (MDOT) and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), click
There is a strong will, both at the political and civilian level, to install a new bridge over the Mississippi River. The main 2 bridges that are currently used, the Poplar Street Bridge and the MLK (Martin Luther King) bridge, are frequently taxed out during the morning and afternoon rush hours. If there's lots of traffic now, we can only imagine where it will be in the coming years as the Metro East continues to grow.
Nonetheless, the will to pay for the bridge seems to be coming more from Illinois than Missouri. The reason is clear...Illinois motorists are the chief beneficiaries for the bridge. It's my opinion, however, that the benefit will be strong for Missouri business too, specifically for Downtown St. Louis. Therefore, it seems that both states should pony up significantly. Missouri has favored a toll bridge...let the drivers, who are mostly Illinoisians, pay for it each day, right?
Illinois was not as quikly in favor of a toll. In any case, on February 21, a 12-10 vote passed both states' support for the coupler bridge. What's next? Only time will tell, but if the toll feature comes back as a reality, a local radio celebrity on KMOX was known to say "look, just get it passed as a toll bridge, build it, then once it's in service and no one's using it because of the toll feature, the States will have to take over, the toll will be lifted, and we'll have our "toll-less" bridge. I disagree...what if the toll is not lifted and the new bridge continues to suffer from low traffic volumes? I think it's best to agree to a plan that will work going forward, not just in the short term.
Read more about the bridge on the official bridge website set up by the Missouri Department of Transportation (MDOT) and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), click
Local Road Improvements, Chapter 1
I'm going to go West for just a bit to St. Louis City and St. Louis County (west of St. Louis City). There is a planned (and just now beginning) improvement of the Interstate 64 corridor from Kingshighway in Downtown St. Louis west to Spoede (locally pronounced 'spay-dee), which isn't that far from the major North/South route, I-270. The
When you go to http://www.thenewi64.org/, a website set up to explore what it's all about, there are signs that it will be quite a haggle for local commuters. If you plan on living in the Metro East close to Scott Air Force Base or O'Fallon, IL and commuting to St. Louis County, plan on the need to significantly alter travel routes for what will be the better part of 3 years. There has been a lot of debate on how the project should be carried out. When all is said and done, there's sure to be more than just a few traffic jams!
The good news is that most of the traffic will be east-bound in the morning and west-bound in the evening, but commuter counts from IL to MO continue to rise.
The other good news is that there are plenty of jobs on the east side. Scott Air Force Base continues to grow and talk of a freight hub abounds.
To come in future blogs are information about the proposed New Mississippi River Bridge, the I-64 lane expansion and the whopper of them all, at least for our area, the Gateway Connector. Stay tuned for more!
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
When you go to http://www.thenewi64.org/, a website set up to explore what it's all about, there are signs that it will be quite a haggle for local commuters. If you plan on living in the Metro East close to Scott Air Force Base or O'Fallon, IL and commuting to St. Louis County, plan on the need to significantly alter travel routes for what will be the better part of 3 years. There has been a lot of debate on how the project should be carried out. When all is said and done, there's sure to be more than just a few traffic jams!
The good news is that most of the traffic will be east-bound in the morning and west-bound in the evening, but commuter counts from IL to MO continue to rise.
The other good news is that there are plenty of jobs on the east side. Scott Air Force Base continues to grow and talk of a freight hub abounds.
To come in future blogs are information about the proposed New Mississippi River Bridge, the I-64 lane expansion and the whopper of them all, at least for our area, the Gateway Connector. Stay tuned for more!
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
Tuesday, March 6, 2007
What To Do In The Winter, Chapter 7
There are a number of YMCAs in the area, 3 of which are within 15 minutes driving distance from Scott Air Force Base. Whether you choose to join or not, there is a HUGE benefit that you can derrive from what I'm about to reveal for FREE!
Every Friday night, so far for a few years and running, each of the local YMCAs offers what they call "Family Fun Night." We are members of the local YMCA and don't always go, but have found that the kids beg to ge every Friday night. During Winter months especially, this is a HUGE hit with both kids and mom and dad alike.
There are fun nights at YMCAs across the nation, but in case you haven't heard about them, you'll be interested to know that there are always snacks, drawings for door prizes, lots of organized games for the kids that adults can participate in as well, and the pool is always open for family swim. There is no childcare these nights, but that's the purpose of the family night...that families spend time doing something together.
Here are some links to all the local YMCAs:
Downtown Belleville Center - Robert L & Elsie A. Kern Center
East Belleville Center
Sonnenberg Center
Collinsville, Maryville, Troy (CMT) Center
Monroe County YMCA - HTC Center
O'Fallon Center
Outdoor Center/Lakeside Center - Home of "Life Adventures"
Red Bud Center
The only ones I've been to are the Downtown Belleville Center, the East Belleville Center and the O'Fallon Center. All three have been built within the last 3 or so years and are extremely well outfitted with all the equipment you could ask for...all extremely close to Scott Air Force Base!
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
Every Friday night, so far for a few years and running, each of the local YMCAs offers what they call "Family Fun Night." We are members of the local YMCA and don't always go, but have found that the kids beg to ge every Friday night. During Winter months especially, this is a HUGE hit with both kids and mom and dad alike.
There are fun nights at YMCAs across the nation, but in case you haven't heard about them, you'll be interested to know that there are always snacks, drawings for door prizes, lots of organized games for the kids that adults can participate in as well, and the pool is always open for family swim. There is no childcare these nights, but that's the purpose of the family night...that families spend time doing something together.
Here are some links to all the local YMCAs:
Downtown Belleville Center - Robert L & Elsie A. Kern Center
East Belleville Center
Sonnenberg Center
Collinsville, Maryville, Troy (CMT) Center
Monroe County YMCA - HTC Center
O'Fallon Center
Outdoor Center/Lakeside Center - Home of "Life Adventures"
Red Bud Center
The only ones I've been to are the Downtown Belleville Center, the East Belleville Center and the O'Fallon Center. All three have been built within the last 3 or so years and are extremely well outfitted with all the equipment you could ask for...all extremely close to Scott Air Force Base!
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
Friday, March 2, 2007
Christmas Shopping and When You Must Have it Completed
Ok, this is not timed correctly for the "normal" Christmas shopper, but if you live near Scott Air Force Base, or are relocating to Scott Air Force Base, you'll be thankful you got this warning early rather than later.
Most malls have a certain degree of highway infrastructure surrounding them that it's not TOO bad to visit them during the holiday season. Please note that St. Clair Square, where much of your Christmas shopping will probably be done here, is pretty horrific to access if you are comign from the South on IL-159. You see, 159 is a 4-lane route with many traffic signals, more the closer you get to the Mall. Unless you complete your shopping during the months leading up to Thanksgiving day of any particular year, you may find yourself spending much more time in traffic than you care to even think about. Just get it done early and enjoy your Christmas for once!
There's much more to know about the area, though, so if you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com. We look forward to welcoming you to our community!
Most malls have a certain degree of highway infrastructure surrounding them that it's not TOO bad to visit them during the holiday season. Please note that St. Clair Square, where much of your Christmas shopping will probably be done here, is pretty horrific to access if you are comign from the South on IL-159. You see, 159 is a 4-lane route with many traffic signals, more the closer you get to the Mall. Unless you complete your shopping during the months leading up to Thanksgiving day of any particular year, you may find yourself spending much more time in traffic than you care to even think about. Just get it done early and enjoy your Christmas for once!
There's much more to know about the area, though, so if you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com. We look forward to welcoming you to our community!
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Parks Close to Scott Air Force Base and O'Fallon, IL
Since today is dawning a bit warmer than the average March morning, I thought I'd give a bit of information on local parks I've found great for taking the kids to go out and play at. There are a handful of them in the area, each very clean, safe and fun.
I've already talked a bit about Pleasant Ridge Park in Fairview Heights as a popular sledding destination. Although we've enjoyed the sledding, I think we've derrived most of our fond memories from walks in the woods of this 95-acre wonderland. It's especially beautiful in the Spring and Fall. Summer in this area brings with it a bit of poison ivy, so if you venture out during the warmer months, you'll have to wear long pants to ensure you don't get it on your legs.
Another park in Fairview Heights is Longacre Park. It's got a HUGE playground that's aging, but still lots of fun for the kids. It's used so much that what normally splinter-ridden wood hand-holds have become very smooth through wear. There's a beautiful lake, sand volleyball, baseball, soccer and a very relaxing, very popular walking/running path that's 1.5 miles.
Moving to O'Fallon, there's a host of parks. The names are O'Fallon Community Park, Hesse Park, Rock Springs Park, Thoman Park, St. Ellen Mine Park, Family Sports Park. Our favorite is the playground at the O'Fallon Community Park in downtown O'Fallon. The playground there is one of those newer coated metal monstroties that probably cost better than $100,000. (NOTE: that is just a guess!) O'Fallon has provided a great map for the parks.
Shiloh, just south of O'Fallon, has a new park as well, the Shiloh Community Park. There's another park in Shiloh as well, but we've found the SCP to be more easily accessible to us. It's on Frank Scott Parkway and has baseball and soccer fields, tennis courts, basketball courts and a pretty nice playground for children ages 5-12.
One of my favorite Belleville parks is Foley Park. Now to get to this one, you have to drive a bit (unless you live on the south side of Belleville or in Smithton, IL), but it's worth it in my opinion. It's located in the middle of farm land and has a wide-open feeling. I love to go there and work from my car when it's not too hot or too cold. There's a number of old strip mine pits that have been turned into fishing holes. I'm not a fisherman, but judging from the volume of people fishing, I'd guess it must be good.
There are many more parks in Belleville, but I like Foley the best! It doesn't show up on the city's website, but comes under St. Clair County Parks. The address is St Clair County Foley Park, 5119 Douglas Rd., Belleville, IL 62220.
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
I've already talked a bit about Pleasant Ridge Park in Fairview Heights as a popular sledding destination. Although we've enjoyed the sledding, I think we've derrived most of our fond memories from walks in the woods of this 95-acre wonderland. It's especially beautiful in the Spring and Fall. Summer in this area brings with it a bit of poison ivy, so if you venture out during the warmer months, you'll have to wear long pants to ensure you don't get it on your legs.
Another park in Fairview Heights is Longacre Park. It's got a HUGE playground that's aging, but still lots of fun for the kids. It's used so much that what normally splinter-ridden wood hand-holds have become very smooth through wear. There's a beautiful lake, sand volleyball, baseball, soccer and a very relaxing, very popular walking/running path that's 1.5 miles.
Moving to O'Fallon, there's a host of parks. The names are O'Fallon Community Park, Hesse Park, Rock Springs Park, Thoman Park, St. Ellen Mine Park, Family Sports Park. Our favorite is the playground at the O'Fallon Community Park in downtown O'Fallon. The playground there is one of those newer coated metal monstroties that probably cost better than $100,000. (NOTE: that is just a guess!) O'Fallon has provided a great map for the parks.
Shiloh, just south of O'Fallon, has a new park as well, the Shiloh Community Park. There's another park in Shiloh as well, but we've found the SCP to be more easily accessible to us. It's on Frank Scott Parkway and has baseball and soccer fields, tennis courts, basketball courts and a pretty nice playground for children ages 5-12.
One of my favorite Belleville parks is Foley Park. Now to get to this one, you have to drive a bit (unless you live on the south side of Belleville or in Smithton, IL), but it's worth it in my opinion. It's located in the middle of farm land and has a wide-open feeling. I love to go there and work from my car when it's not too hot or too cold. There's a number of old strip mine pits that have been turned into fishing holes. I'm not a fisherman, but judging from the volume of people fishing, I'd guess it must be good.
There are many more parks in Belleville, but I like Foley the best! It doesn't show up on the city's website, but comes under St. Clair County Parks. The address is St Clair County Foley Park, 5119 Douglas Rd., Belleville, IL 62220.
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
Monday, February 26, 2007
What To Do In The Winter, Chapter 6
I'm going to expand on the previous post that I made about Alton, IL and eagle watching. If you want to transform your eagle-watching into a bit more than a day trip and you like a slower pace but nice accommodations, you'll want to visit Pere Marquette State Park and thier Pere Marquette Lodge and Conference Center.
I've personally stayed there more than 5 times. I usually go there to withdraw from the hustle and bustle of suburban life and get back in touch with a setting that's much like the rural area where I grew up.
It's about an hour's trip from Scott Air Force Base and the communities of O'Fallon, Shiloh, Swansea and Belleville, IL. Once you get north of Alton, the trip is beautiful. You'll be going west/north on what's called the Great River Road. What a scenic trip! First, you're following the Mississippi River. Then, once you get into Grafton, you'll be following the Illinois River.
You'll know you're almost to the Lodge becuase you'll see the Brussels Ferry (it corsses over into Calhoun County, IL) on your left. Not much further and you'll see the stone structure off to your right.
Once at Pere Marquette Lodge and Conference Center, you can choose from their 50 lodge guest rooms or their 22 natural stone cabins. However, recommendations are recommended for pretty much every weekend. All accommodations are centrally cooled and heated. The last time I was there (in early 2006) the cabins were a bit "used," but still very peaceful.
There's a dining facility in the lodge. They are famous for their fried chicken meals. However, there are other items on the menu that are prepared with those who don't appreciate what I call "country kitchen fare."
Even though I'd rate the food at 4 out of a possible 5, it's the setting and peace I have gone there for in the past. I still remember going one Winter in advance of about 4 inches of snow. It was an incredibly beautiful scene when I woke up.
In addition to a great setting, the hills up to which the lodge and grounds back, are filled with great, extremely well-marked trails that offer a variety of difficulty, from moderate all the way up to very difficult. Along some of the trails are some beatuiful overlooks of the Illinois and Mississippi rivers.
This is one of those things that you'll have to put on your list of required to-dos during the time you make Scott Air Force Base your home. You won't regret taking some time off to visit this beautiful destination!
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
I've personally stayed there more than 5 times. I usually go there to withdraw from the hustle and bustle of suburban life and get back in touch with a setting that's much like the rural area where I grew up.
It's about an hour's trip from Scott Air Force Base and the communities of O'Fallon, Shiloh, Swansea and Belleville, IL. Once you get north of Alton, the trip is beautiful. You'll be going west/north on what's called the Great River Road. What a scenic trip! First, you're following the Mississippi River. Then, once you get into Grafton, you'll be following the Illinois River.
You'll know you're almost to the Lodge becuase you'll see the Brussels Ferry (it corsses over into Calhoun County, IL) on your left. Not much further and you'll see the stone structure off to your right.
Once at Pere Marquette Lodge and Conference Center, you can choose from their 50 lodge guest rooms or their 22 natural stone cabins. However, recommendations are recommended for pretty much every weekend. All accommodations are centrally cooled and heated. The last time I was there (in early 2006) the cabins were a bit "used," but still very peaceful.
There's a dining facility in the lodge. They are famous for their fried chicken meals. However, there are other items on the menu that are prepared with those who don't appreciate what I call "country kitchen fare."
Even though I'd rate the food at 4 out of a possible 5, it's the setting and peace I have gone there for in the past. I still remember going one Winter in advance of about 4 inches of snow. It was an incredibly beautiful scene when I woke up.
In addition to a great setting, the hills up to which the lodge and grounds back, are filled with great, extremely well-marked trails that offer a variety of difficulty, from moderate all the way up to very difficult. Along some of the trails are some beatuiful overlooks of the Illinois and Mississippi rivers.
This is one of those things that you'll have to put on your list of required to-dos during the time you make Scott Air Force Base your home. You won't regret taking some time off to visit this beautiful destination!
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
Thursday, February 22, 2007
What To Do In The Winter, Chapter 5
Something happens each Winter in this area that is both unique and beautiful. Alton, IL, a mere 34 miles from your home in O'Fallon, IL, is a local city whose history abounds. The tallest man, Robert Wadlow, if from Alton. At 8' 11", he's the tallest person who ever lived!
The thing that many don't know about Alton is that in the Winter months of December through February, local residents have a unique opportunity to interract with a bird of prey that every American is enthralled by, the American Bald Eagle. Adopted as the national symbol of the United States for its independence and strength, the eagle is truly fascinating to watch.
There are a number of locations where one can view the birds which are explained fully in an Eagle Watcher's Guide. (NOTE: the Eagle Watcher's Guide may take a while to load, but it's worth it!) Read this and you'll learn all you need to know to successfully make plans for your first Eagle-watching experience.
Just to keep it interesting, the City of Alton has arranged (so far every Winter that I can remember) to have a LIVE EAGLE on display at the Alton Visitor's Center. We went there in January and it is truly incredible to see one up-close. Of course, the eagle they have on display is unable to fly; he would not survive in the wild, so he hangs out inside where it's warm for us to marvel over him. What a wonder. I strongly recommend it for kids who've never seen one before. Combine some facts about the strength of the eagle and its independence and you have a great illustration to show the kids the importance of inner strength in one's life in order to survive, especially today!
Although this day trip can carry you all day, there are other things to do in Alton as well. My favorite is to visit the Melvin Price Locks and Dam. It's an opportunity to see up-close how riverboat traffic navigates using the technology of the lock. This is a must-see not only for the kids, but most any adult will find it interesting as well.
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
The thing that many don't know about Alton is that in the Winter months of December through February, local residents have a unique opportunity to interract with a bird of prey that every American is enthralled by, the American Bald Eagle. Adopted as the national symbol of the United States for its independence and strength, the eagle is truly fascinating to watch.
There are a number of locations where one can view the birds which are explained fully in an Eagle Watcher's Guide. (NOTE: the Eagle Watcher's Guide may take a while to load, but it's worth it!) Read this and you'll learn all you need to know to successfully make plans for your first Eagle-watching experience.
Just to keep it interesting, the City of Alton has arranged (so far every Winter that I can remember) to have a LIVE EAGLE on display at the Alton Visitor's Center. We went there in January and it is truly incredible to see one up-close. Of course, the eagle they have on display is unable to fly; he would not survive in the wild, so he hangs out inside where it's warm for us to marvel over him. What a wonder. I strongly recommend it for kids who've never seen one before. Combine some facts about the strength of the eagle and its independence and you have a great illustration to show the kids the importance of inner strength in one's life in order to survive, especially today!
Although this day trip can carry you all day, there are other things to do in Alton as well. My favorite is to visit the Melvin Price Locks and Dam. It's an opportunity to see up-close how riverboat traffic navigates using the technology of the lock. This is a must-see not only for the kids, but most any adult will find it interesting as well.
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
What To Do In The Winter, Chapter 4
Ok, I've been busy for the past few days and getting to my follow-up blog on our second sledding experience from this past weekend has been on my mind, so here goes...
I just realized that both sledding excursions I'm featuring here are Fairview Heights, IL destinations. There really are a lot of activities to pursue in Southwestern IL; Fairview Heights is known locally more for commerce than anything else since the largest Mall this side of the Mississippi River is St. Clair Square Mall in Fairview Heights.
That said, I honestly can't even begin to tell you how strange this sledding location is. You see, it's built on a heap of strip mine remains. St. Clair County was at one time a HUGE underground and strip mining location. (NOTE: if you're relocating to St. Clair County or communities around Scott Air Force Base, don't CONSIDER buying homeowner's insurance without getting mine subsidence insurance! Feel free to contact me at andrewe@remax.net for further informaiton on this "mine field" that must be navigated successfully).
In any case, the sledding this past Sunday was great. You'll notice that the "slopes" look less like snow and more like grass. Well, that's becasue there was
quite a bit of grass showing up as the snow retreated under the assault of 55 degree temperatures and a sun that wanted to show that Spring is just around the corner. However, because the weather for the past 3 or so weeks had been so cold, the fact was that the "snow" we sledded on was actually ice. The conditions were great. Here's an example of my oldest son catching some air on his sled.
When all was said and done, all 7 of us (we went with some neighbors) were there fully 2 1/2 hours before we thought anything about the clock. I think it's becasue it was warm enough that we were totally comfortable the entire time. No hot chocolate needed today! "Phew" says the dad; "Bummer!" say the kids.
This is a GREAT location for sledding because of its central location (easy to get to from Route 50 in O'Fallon, IL, very close to Scott Air Force Base) and the size of the hills...something to look forward to if you're currently stationed somewhere in Texas or any other warmer climate that doesn't normally experience Winter!
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
I just realized that both sledding excursions I'm featuring here are Fairview Heights, IL destinations. There really are a lot of activities to pursue in Southwestern IL; Fairview Heights is known locally more for commerce than anything else since the largest Mall this side of the Mississippi River is St. Clair Square Mall in Fairview Heights.
That said, I honestly can't even begin to tell you how strange this sledding location is. You see, it's built on a heap of strip mine remains. St. Clair County was at one time a HUGE underground and strip mining location. (NOTE: if you're relocating to St. Clair County or communities around Scott Air Force Base, don't CONSIDER buying homeowner's insurance without getting mine subsidence insurance! Feel free to contact me at andrewe@remax.net for further informaiton on this "mine field" that must be navigated successfully).
In any case, the sledding this past Sunday was great. You'll notice that the "slopes" look less like snow and more like grass. Well, that's becasue there was
quite a bit of grass showing up as the snow retreated under the assault of 55 degree temperatures and a sun that wanted to show that Spring is just around the corner. However, because the weather for the past 3 or so weeks had been so cold, the fact was that the "snow" we sledded on was actually ice. The conditions were great. Here's an example of my oldest son catching some air on his sled.When all was said and done, all 7 of us (we went with some neighbors) were there fully 2 1/2 hours before we thought anything about the clock. I think it's becasue it was warm enough that we were totally comfortable the entire time. No hot chocolate needed today! "Phew" says the dad; "Bummer!" say the kids.
This is a GREAT location for sledding because of its central location (easy to get to from Route 50 in O'Fallon, IL, very close to Scott Air Force Base) and the size of the hills...something to look forward to if you're currently stationed somewhere in Texas or any other warmer climate that doesn't normally experience Winter!
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
Monday, February 19, 2007
What To Do In The WInter, Chapter 3
If the trend for warmer Winters in Southwestern IL continues, the following will not always be an option, but the "warmer Winter" trend was put to a grinding halt this year, so who knows. We've had a l-o-n-g string of cold days (probably 2 weeks or so). Today is the first sign that there's life after Winter. The high today was a welcomed 60 degrees!
Here's a picture of my daughter hitting the snow ramp just right. I'm not sure if she'll recover from the landing, but rumor has it that after she grinded to a halt, she was still smiling!
When all was said and done, my 8 year-old son got a bloody nose, but that would have happened no matter WHAT we did...he seems to be drawn to incidents that involve a great deal of drama. He simply viewed it as an opportunity to tell another story to Gramdma and Grandpa. Neither my 3rd nor 4th children reported any incident, except having lots of fun.
In any case, I went sledding with my kids on Saturday of this past weekend at a local park in Fariview Heights, Pleasant Ridge. It truly is "pleasant." It's fully 95 acres with space for roller-blading, picnic pavilions that may be rented, great hills for sledding, a wonderful playground that toddlers through 8 year olds will appreciate and hiking trails in the hilly woods. It's a great way to relax from the hustle and bustle of everyday activities. Here's what we saw when we were there this past weekend.
The sledding this past weekend was fantastic! Although the temps were in the mid-20's, combined with a brisk NW wind at about 20 mph, which made for a pretty chilly day, the slopes were absolutely perfect. You'll want to beware that the hills at Pleasant Ridge actually make up a valley. People sled on each side of the valley from opposite directions. What this means is that on some of the more popular places on the hill, there is the potential for collisions. I personally feel it adds exhileration to the experience . If you've got childern under the age of 6 or so, you may want to leave them at home!
Here's a picture of my daughter hitting the snow ramp just right. I'm not sure if she'll recover from the landing, but rumor has it that after she grinded to a halt, she was still smiling!When all was said and done, my 8 year-old son got a bloody nose, but that would have happened no matter WHAT we did...he seems to be drawn to incidents that involve a great deal of drama. He simply viewed it as an opportunity to tell another story to Gramdma and Grandpa. Neither my 3rd nor 4th children reported any incident, except having lots of fun.
After sledding, we returned home, grabbed some hot chocolate and were happy to have yet another intimate family experience to store in our memories. Life is grand!
Tomorrow I'll share another sledding location we visited on Sunday. Yes, although most of the area is pretty flat, there are certianly places to find hills that can provide TONS of sledding enjoyment!
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base to join us for sledding some year, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com ...and don't forget to bring your sled!
Saturday, February 17, 2007
Welcome To Military Surface Deployment & Distribution Command!
It's been a bit since this announcement was first made by Mitch Chandran, Public Affairs, Headquarters SDDC, but I thought I'd take this opportunity to give my official welcome to all members who will be coming to Scott Air Force Base, IL as part of the SDDC move. This is a wonderful community that you'll enjoy to call home once you get settled.
From the press release in September, 2006, the move involves members from the following locations:
Headquarters SDDC, Alexandria, VA
Transportation Engineering Agency, Newport News, VA
Headquarters, SDDC, Ft. Eustis, VA
Welcome to all!
There were a number of professional and community members from the Scott Air Force Base and surrounding communities who went and visited many of the HQ SDDC members in Virginia last year. Some who went were my colleagues from RE/MAX. The goal was to make the relocation process to our area as smooth and seemless as possible.
I'm a native of Alexandria, VA. I went to High School at Hayfield Secondary and loved growing up there. I have helped others relocate from Northern Virginia and other military installations successfully. I love it when my unique approach to relocation assistance helps to make the actual relocation a positive experience!
If for some reason you were unable to attend the events that were held then, and you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
We in the Scott AFB community look forward to the time in the future when we may call you our colleagues, neighbors and friends. Welcome aboard!
From the press release in September, 2006, the move involves members from the following locations:
Headquarters SDDC, Alexandria, VA
Transportation Engineering Agency, Newport News, VA
Headquarters, SDDC, Ft. Eustis, VA
Welcome to all!
There were a number of professional and community members from the Scott Air Force Base and surrounding communities who went and visited many of the HQ SDDC members in Virginia last year. Some who went were my colleagues from RE/MAX. The goal was to make the relocation process to our area as smooth and seemless as possible.
I'm a native of Alexandria, VA. I went to High School at Hayfield Secondary and loved growing up there. I have helped others relocate from Northern Virginia and other military installations successfully. I love it when my unique approach to relocation assistance helps to make the actual relocation a positive experience!
If for some reason you were unable to attend the events that were held then, and you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
We in the Scott AFB community look forward to the time in the future when we may call you our colleagues, neighbors and friends. Welcome aboard!
Friday, February 16, 2007
What To Do In The Winter, Chapter 2
I mentioned yesterday that I'd give some details about a wonderful, family-friendly "everything center." Here goes.
My son just turned 8 on February 4th. He loves Six Flags, St. Louis, but unfortunately, it's not open this time of year. He can't figure out why it's not open in February and won't believe us when we say it's too cold!
In any case, I took him for the first time to the Korte Rec Center in Highland, IL. I was pleasantly surprised. First, for the four of us we were supposed to pay $22.00. The attendant realized it was a special day for my son and simply "rounded down" to $20.00 and wished us a great time!
We were there to swim, so we went straight to the locker rooms and got dressed. The locker room smelled clean and was in good shape. Once in the swimming area, we were pleasantly surprised that, even though it was 15 degrees Fahrenheit outside, it was easily 90 degrees inside, a great relief for me go gets chilled just looking at something cold!
They have something they call a Vortex in the pool area. WOW! Up to 10 or so kids/adults can get in there at a time and you literally spin around like you're in a tornado. It was really fun. The kids would do that endlessly if allowed to.
They have a pretty good slide, a lazy river and a lap pool. Best of all for parents with small kids, there's also a shallow play area that's safe for most any toddler.
Finally, in the pool area, there's a GREAT hot tub...well, make that a hot pool. It's big enough that it should not be called a tub!
Food was Ok, the regular snack bar fare, but the family-friendly factor more than made up for that. No walking around without shirts in the main area, modestly-dressed employees, etc.
There's a full-size basketball court, but we didn't go in.
To round it out, there's also a fitness center in the facility. Arc trainers, treadmills, Flex circuit equipment, all kinds of stationery bicycles are among the equipment that's there.
This particular destination can provide a full day's enjoyment for the entire family.
Finally, they do birthday parties that are VERY reasonable. Our daughter is going to have her birthday party there in March, so I'll update how that experience was once we've lived it. Our church is going there tonight with the elementary-aged kids. It's an all-nighter with all kinds of things planned. The kdis will even have a chance to win a Nintendo Wei! I'll update how that went next week.
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
My son just turned 8 on February 4th. He loves Six Flags, St. Louis, but unfortunately, it's not open this time of year. He can't figure out why it's not open in February and won't believe us when we say it's too cold!
In any case, I took him for the first time to the Korte Rec Center in Highland, IL. I was pleasantly surprised. First, for the four of us we were supposed to pay $22.00. The attendant realized it was a special day for my son and simply "rounded down" to $20.00 and wished us a great time!
We were there to swim, so we went straight to the locker rooms and got dressed. The locker room smelled clean and was in good shape. Once in the swimming area, we were pleasantly surprised that, even though it was 15 degrees Fahrenheit outside, it was easily 90 degrees inside, a great relief for me go gets chilled just looking at something cold!
They have something they call a Vortex in the pool area. WOW! Up to 10 or so kids/adults can get in there at a time and you literally spin around like you're in a tornado. It was really fun. The kids would do that endlessly if allowed to.
They have a pretty good slide, a lazy river and a lap pool. Best of all for parents with small kids, there's also a shallow play area that's safe for most any toddler.
Finally, in the pool area, there's a GREAT hot tub...well, make that a hot pool. It's big enough that it should not be called a tub!
Food was Ok, the regular snack bar fare, but the family-friendly factor more than made up for that. No walking around without shirts in the main area, modestly-dressed employees, etc.
There's a full-size basketball court, but we didn't go in.
To round it out, there's also a fitness center in the facility. Arc trainers, treadmills, Flex circuit equipment, all kinds of stationery bicycles are among the equipment that's there.
This particular destination can provide a full day's enjoyment for the entire family.
Finally, they do birthday parties that are VERY reasonable. Our daughter is going to have her birthday party there in March, so I'll update how that experience was once we've lived it. Our church is going there tonight with the elementary-aged kids. It's an all-nighter with all kinds of things planned. The kdis will even have a chance to win a Nintendo Wei! I'll update how that went next week.
If you're thinking of relocating to Scott Air Force Base, or for information on communities, schools or homes for sale in O'Fallon, Belleville, Shiolh, IL and other communities that surround Scott Air Force Base, please go to www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com
Thursday, February 15, 2007
What to do in the Winter, Chapter 1
Ok, so the climate for Scott AFB and surrounding communities of O'Fallon, Shiloh, Swansea and Belleville, IL are not like Hawaii! I'll give that to you up front. However, your orders are to move here, your PCS is on the calendar, so that's what you'll do, and make the best of it!
I've decided to write a series of articles about what can be done here during the Winter. I'm a father of 4 and know how important it is to keep the kids active.
One place we've found to be GREAT is the Family Sportsplex in Belleville. They have Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball and Cageball. There are also batting cages, a great snack bar and reasonably clean restrooms. (Ok, that's one point where they fall down, but hey, no one's perfect, right?)
Anyway, my oldest son is playing indoor soccer this Winter. He had his first game last Saturday. I didn't know what to expect from the referees and the league in general since this is his first try at indoor soccer. I was pleasantly surprised. My son's team won 10-0, which of course we were happy about, but I was impressed that once the score got to 6-0, no additional points were registered on the score board. The other parents who had kids in the same league for more than one year said they do that to prevent the losing side from getting demoralized. I was extremely happy with that. Seemed like a breath of fresh air in a society that is going further and further down the road of "I can do it better than you." There's hope!
I'll pick this up again tomorrow. There are really quite a few things to do during the Winter; you just have to be willing to go find them. They won't come find you! Next time, I'll talk about a wonderful, family-oriented indoor "everything" center. Keep tuned for more...
Until then, if you have any questions about relocating to Scott Air Force Base, you can always access my comprehensive relocation website at www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com!
I've decided to write a series of articles about what can be done here during the Winter. I'm a father of 4 and know how important it is to keep the kids active.
One place we've found to be GREAT is the Family Sportsplex in Belleville. They have Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball and Cageball. There are also batting cages, a great snack bar and reasonably clean restrooms. (Ok, that's one point where they fall down, but hey, no one's perfect, right?)
Anyway, my oldest son is playing indoor soccer this Winter. He had his first game last Saturday. I didn't know what to expect from the referees and the league in general since this is his first try at indoor soccer. I was pleasantly surprised. My son's team won 10-0, which of course we were happy about, but I was impressed that once the score got to 6-0, no additional points were registered on the score board. The other parents who had kids in the same league for more than one year said they do that to prevent the losing side from getting demoralized. I was extremely happy with that. Seemed like a breath of fresh air in a society that is going further and further down the road of "I can do it better than you." There's hope!
I'll pick this up again tomorrow. There are really quite a few things to do during the Winter; you just have to be willing to go find them. They won't come find you! Next time, I'll talk about a wonderful, family-oriented indoor "everything" center. Keep tuned for more...
Until then, if you have any questions about relocating to Scott Air Force Base, you can always access my comprehensive relocation website at www.RelocateToScottAirForceBase.com!
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