Must Read Posts:  Relocating, it’s all about the schools

When relocating to Fort Carson, there are many neighborhoods to choose from including the Cheyenne Mountain area in southwest Colorado Springs, Fountain, Security/Widefield which are close to the base, and the Powers Corridor on the East Side of town.    Commute times vary from 5-35 minutes from these areas.

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Fountain, Security/Widefield

Due to its close location to the base and an abundance of affordable housing, Fountain and Security/Widefield are one of the most popular choices for Fort Carson Relocation.      Directly East from I-25 , Fountain is a vibrant growing community.    Fountain is located 10 miles south of Colorado Springs and the Fountain Valley area also includes Security and Widefield; which are located in-between Colorado Springs and Fountain.    Commute times to Fort Carson range from 5-20 minutes.  Some of my favorite neighborhoods in the area are the Glen at Widefield, Windmill Mesa, and Clearview Estates.

Cheyenne Mountain in Southwest Colorado Springs

Cheyenne Mountain is on the southwest side of Colorado Springs, just north of Post.    Part of the area is included in one of the most poplar school systems, District-12, and it’s prime location in the foothills of Colorado Springs, makes it a popular choice for Fort Carson Real Estate.    There are affordable townhome and condo opportunities as well as affordable single family homes.     Travel times from the Cheyenne Mountain community are 10-20 minutes.   Some of my favorite neighborhoods include the townhomes at Autumn Ridge, Cheyenne Meadows, Cheyenne Hills, Skyway, and Cheyenne Canon.

Powers Area in East Colorado Springs

As Colorado Springs continues to grow farther east, the homes on Powers Blvd are becoming more and more popular.    It has the city’s largest concentration of retail shopping, restaurants and entertainment; and new restaurants and shopping continues to be added.    Commuting from Powers takes 20-35 minutes.  Some of my favorite neighborhoods include Stetson Hills, Indigo Ranch, and Springs Ranch

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Congratulations Colorado Springs!  You’ve been voted in at number ten for the Best Places for Business and Careers according to Forbes Magazine.  In Colorado, we came in at number 10, while Ft. Collins came in at number 2.  Two other city’s showed up in the top 20, Denver at number 14 and Boulder at number 20.  Way to go Colorado!

North Carolina and Colorado are certainly winners here as they managed to capture ten of the top twenty on the list.  There are plenty of mid-western cities on the list as well.  Interesting was the lack of places in California and the Northeast Corridor. How did they determine the criteria for this Business and Careers List?

Forbes looked at eleven different criteria to come up with the list.  It looked at job growth along with cost of doing business, living costs, income growth and migration trends.  They also looked at how many residents over the age of 25 have actually finished college (Boulder came in number one there).  Also, on the list were crime rates, how many local colleges were located in an area and cultural and recreation opportunities.  New on the list this year was projected job growth in the next five years along with subprime mortgages as a percentage of total loan origination’s over a three year period.

Due to the high tech industries located in both Colorado and North Carolina, these two states are expected to recover faster than the rest of the country as the trends show that high tech will recover faster than other industries.

So, congratulations Colorado Springs.  Another reason to be proud of our city!

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Kathy (719-287-1049)   KTorline@msn.com

• After fierce competition Colorado Springs finally lands the Air Force Academy
• Military relocation? 6 tips to read before you buy a home
• An early history of Ft. Carson
• History of Ft. Carson part II

NORAD today, stills sits under the caverns of Cheyenne Mountain, even though its in a warm status.  It may not be as large as it once was due to the consolidation of NORAD and Northcom now housed mainly at Peterson Air Force Base, but its still there protecting us from not just external but now internal threats with the help of the FAA.

In 1957, both Canada and the United States were reeling from the threats of the Soviet Union, especially after the launch of the first satellite, Sputnik.  Everyone was scared and even schoolchildren were drilled on diving under their desks and covering their heads in case of a nuclear strike.  Both countries realized the importance of a continental home alarm system.  This lead to the creation of NORAD at Ent Air Force Base (now the Olympic Training Center).

Why was Colorado Springs chosen as the command center for the newly formed NORAD?  Mainly because of its location.  It was beyond the reach of the soviet missiles of the day.  Even bombs of the time could not have penetrated the mountain.  In May 1961, blasting began on the center.  It finally opened in 1966 with a cost of over $142 million, an enormous sum even in those days.  When completed it could be a temporary self -sustaining unit.  Its enclosed by 25 ton steel blast gates and hundreds of feet of solid granite.  It has a series of large chamber covering more than 4 1/2 acres.  Each building rests on on immense coil steel springs for protection from nuclear blasts or earthquakes.  Along with its extensive ventilation system, there are food stores and a natural water spring to provide nourishment in case, they would have to lock themselves in.

NORAD continued to evolve as the times changed.  In the 1990’s they even helped track drug smugglers.  An Air Force Space Command even tracks space debris and satellites, which makes it safer for our astronauts (this has been moved to California). Strategic Command also housed at Cheyenne Mountain is moving to Shriever Air Force Base.

NORAD has become a magnet for space -related business and the city of Colorado Springs became a magnet as a space capital of the world.  Take a look at the city and you’ll find plenty of space related companies housed here.

Even though NORAD is scaling back as some of its units move elsewhere, its relevancy is increasing not decreasing due to growing threats.  NORAD will live on because of its mission to our national survival lives on.  Of course, Santa tracking on Christmas Eve will still be an important task for the men and women stationed at NORAD.  Since 2001, there have been no public tours and as of this writing there seem to be no plans to start them again.

NORAD still houses many fine men and women.  They still have a wonderful support staff of military police officers, firefighters and even cooks to maintain a quality lifestyle for those stationed at Cheyenne Mountain Air Base.  There is no actual base housing for the military at Cheyenne Mountain Air Base.  They are quartered at Peterson Air Force Base.

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Kathy (719-287-1049)   KTorline@msn.com

For a Free Colorado Springs Relocation Guide, Email Kathy Torline at KTorline@msn.com

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo sits above The Broadmoor Hotel at 6,800 feet up Cheyenne Mountain. Spencer Penrose was originally given a bear and then other exotic animals became part of his collection.  After a child was bitten, he decided he needed a place to house his menagerie and so he built and incorporated it  in 1926.   Over the years its delighted young and old alike.  Want to feed giraffes?  You can certainly do that here.

With its 172 species of wild animals, engaging exhibits and irresistible attractions, The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo serves the citizens and visitors of Colorado Springs well.  Along with the wonderful exhibits, you can ride a carousel that was a popular attraction at the 1932 World’s Fair. A cherished feature of Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, it has been giving people of all ages a great ride since 1937. You can also take a train ride or ride a pony. How about a ride on the Mountaineer Sky Ride where you can  take a chairlift-style, open-air ride that provides spectacular views of the Zoo, Cheyenne Mountain, Colorado Springs and the plains to the east.

Take your lunch or buy some food while you’re there.  You can also take a trip tho the Will Rogers Shrine as part of your admission.  This is an absolutely wonderful way to spend a day in Colorado Springs.

• 33 unique things to do in Colorado Springs — #1
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Kathy (719-287-1049)   KTorline@msn.com

Governor Ritter is expected to sign a new bill approved by the state Senate that will give homeowners facing foreclosure an 90 day window to try and work out a way to keep their homes.  The bill would require the state to post a notice on the doors of foreclosed homes no later than 15 days after the foreclosure notice is delivered.  The homeowner would then have five days to contact the state’s foreclosure hot line (1-877-601-hope) and set up an appointment with a foreclosure counselor.  If the homeowners can prove they have income then the lender will be required to meet with them to try and work out a payment plan.

During the next 90 days, foreclosure proceedings would be suspended, although the homeowner would have to keep paying 2/3 of the mortgage payment.  Mortgage brokers support the plan as they’re more interested in saving the investment than taking possession of the homes where it would show up as bad debt and that doesn’t help the lenders.

This new bill would certainly help many Colorado homeowners though not everyone would benefit.  If the homeowner has no income due to a loss of a job, and they have no ability to repay the mortgage, there’s no help for them in this bill .  The lenders are only required to meet with these homeowners, not come to an agreement with the owners, but many are willing to try, given all the foreclosed homes they’re carrying on their books.

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Kathy (719-287-1049)   KTorline@msn.com

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Fannie Mae has instituted new rules when it comes to giving loans for condos.  If the building is brand new, they want to make sure there are enough owners to pay for maintenance and preserve the value of the property.  These new rules are designed to protect the buyers and lenders but they could also make it harder for the owners to sell them.

Fannie Mae will only guarantee mortgages in new or newly converted condos if 70% of the units are sold or under contract.  That 70% could be hard to reach if buyers cannot get financing.  In older units, Fannie Mae will not guarantee a mortgage if more than 15% of the other owners are delinquent on the HOA fees.

Fannie Mae wants to reduce the risk for lenders and protect buyers from condo fee increases or special assessments that could cause hardships to the new owners.

Nationwide, there is over a one year supply on condo sales and these new rules could mean that condo sales will decrease even more.

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Kathy (719-287-1049)   KTorline@msn.com

Like the warmth of the sun
And the light of the day,                                                    
May the luck of the Irish
shine bright on your way.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day to one and all!  I’m thinking we’re all a little Irish today.  Want to know of some places to hang your hat tonight and have a little bite and some great beer?  Here’s a few suggestions that will bring out the Irish in all.

No Irishman will ever turn down a request to head to Jack Quinn’s, a nationally recognised pub and alehouse in downtown Colorado Springs.  The restaurant offers a full menu of Irish fare along with all your favorite brews.  Better get there early as they are full up most of the day.

In the mood for something a little more upscale?  How about Mackensie’s Chop House located in the historic Alamo building.  You can find some of the finest and freshest steaks and seafood that Colorado Springs has.  Fine dining but with a more casual feel.

Of course there’s always O’Furry’s located on Fillmore.  It’s The Omelet Parlor by day and a fun bar at night where they have awesome burgers and ice cold beer.

So, whatever you do today, enjoy and remember to drink responsibly.

Some other restaurants that you might like reading about:

• Adam’s Mountain Cafe in Manitou Springs, a MUST for any visit to Manitou
• Jose Muldoons…best margaritas in town
• Marigolds Cafe and Bakery
• Mona Lisa Restaurant… a perfect romantic dinner

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Kathy (719-287-1049)   KTorline@msn.com

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For other information on the General check out these articles:

• The Founder of Colorado Springs, William Jackson Palmer
• The Young Years of Colorado Springs
• Tea and crumpets in Colorado Springs
• The End of an Era in Colorado Springs

Today marks the 100th anniversary of General William Jackson Palmer’s death.  He died on March 13, 1909.  He fell off a horse in 1906 and was paralyzed from then until his death.  He wanted no fuss made about his death and his family had him cremated.  He was buried in Evergreen Cemetery, but the town would not forget their favorite founder.  They had a parade that went from Pikes Peak Ave. to the cemetery.  Today, we still value his foresight on designing this beautiful city that we call home.

To honor his life, there are many activities being planned from now into next week.  I hope you’ll take a look through and maybe plan on attending one or two of them.

First up, today: at 10 a.m. in the Carriage House at Glen Eyrie Castle (which was Palmer’s estate) as they hold a celebration of his life. Historians Len Froisland, Donald McGilchrist, and Susan Fletcher will talk about Palmer’s remarkable life, his final few years, and his vision for Colorado Springs. The events include a free tour of Glen Eyrie Castle followed by a discussion about Palmer’s influence on our city and the signing of a memorial tribute.

On Saturday, March 21:  Join in a wonderful recreation of Palmer’s funeral procession.  It starts on Pikes Peak and winds up at Evergreen Cemetery.  In the afternoon, plan on heading to The Pioneers Museum for a lively discussion of Palmer and his life.

As you drive by his statue in the middle of Platte today, take a moment and thank him for his creation and vision!

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Kathy (719-287-1049)   KTorline@msn.com

For a Free Colorado Springs Relocation Guide, Email Kathy Torline at KTorline@msn.com

Are you preparing for a move to the Air Force Academy?  If so, I hope you find these sites helpful.  The Academy is celebrating its 50th graduation in May and it continues to educate young men and women for service with The United States Air Force.  The Academy has approximately 4000 cadets and graduates about 1000 per year.

If you are moving here with your family, there are four housing areas located on the grounds of the Academy.  You can also live off base where there is plenty of housing located in the northern part of Colorado Springs, Monument or Palmer Lake.

Anyone being transferred to the Academy is assigned a sponsor to make your transition easier, but here is some arrival information that will also help make your move go more smoothly.

If you have children of school age, they will be attending the award winning District 20 school system, where there is a high school and elementary school located on The Academy itself.  You can start the process before ever arriving and it will certainly help speed up getting your children enrolled.

If you plan on living off base and in Colorado Springs, its nice to know that all utilities except garbage comes in one bill (remember, this applies only to the city of Colorado Springs.  Other towns may be set up differently).  To get your utilities hooked up check out the utilities site.

The Academy has its very own newspaper, The Academy Spirit and it’s free to you and full of interesting articles about where you’ll be living.  You can also check out The Gazette which is the local Colorado Springs paper.

For information on what to see and do (and there’s plenty of that here), check out the Colorado Springs Convention and Visitors page or browse through our site here.

For some other articles that you might enjoy reading about The Air force Academy check out these:

• After fierce competition Colorado Springs finally lands the Air Force Academy
• Air Force Academy is finally built in Colorado Springs
• Government and Military are #1 employers in El Paso County
• 33 unique things to do in Colorado Springs — #4 Air Force Academy Chapel

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Kathy (719-287-1049)   KTorline@msn.com

• After fierce competition Colorado Springs finally lands the Air Force Academy
• An early history of Ft. Carson
• History of Ft. Carson part II

Located on the grounds of The United States Air Force Academy, sits Colorado’s top man-made tourist attraction.  It’s the cadet chapel and along with the Academy itself was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2004.

It has 17 silvery spires, which are three dimensional, elongated triangles that sweep upward from the building.  Stained glass bathes the interior in natural light.  Some people complained in the 1960’s when it was completed that it “looked like upended fighter wings and that worshiping there was like going to church in a B-52″.  The architect, Walter Netch, wanted the effect to convey the appearance of the great cathedrals of Europe, although done in the modern elements of aluminum and steel.  The total effect creates a new modernism in a government building which attempts to meet the needs of all faiths.

The chapel has five different areas:  one for Protestants, as you enter, take a look at the 99 ft pinnacled ceiling and then check out the glowing stained-glass mosaics that outline the building.  In the back of the Protestant area check out the pipe organ which has 4334 pipes…very impressive!  Walk into the Catholic Chapel and you’ll see a stunning, abstract portrayal of the firmament done in colored glass.  In the Jewish Chapel you’ll discover some wonderful paintings of Shlomo Katz.  The newest Chapel situated in the basement serves the Buddhist.  You’ll find the temple has matte green walls, recessed lighting and a beautiful and intricate altar.  The floor and walls are hand-planed finish of Port Orford Cedar (the tree is actually a cypress belonging to the same family as the Japanese Hinoki, which is used in many Japanese temples).  The last area is for other religions to hold their services.

Worship services are also open to the general public as well as the cadets.  The tours are self-guided and as it is located on the Air Force Academy grounds make sure you have an up-to-date-insurance card and be prepared for the possibility of your vehicle being searched.  Its best to go during the summer when its far less crowded and your tour will be more pleasant.  The chapel is open Mon-Sat from 9am-5pm for tours.

For more information, check out www.usafa.af.mil or call (719) 333-2025

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Kathy (719-287-1049)   KTorline@msn.com