Come Home to Better! Mountain View Meadows: June 2020

June 2020

Believe in Better:

KIDS PUSH, PULL & PEDAL PARADE

It's been a tough spring for kids in communities across the U.S. Families, neighbors, schools and churches have looked for creative ways to make graduations, birthdays, holidays and traditional events special despite the challenges of a world-wide health crisis. In 2015, Mountain View Meadows, with the support of the HOA and local co-sponsors, launched an annual community 4 th of July celebration at Mountain View Park located in the heart of the residential neighborhoods. The tradition will continue this year with a few changes to help manage social distancing. In 2014 when developer Mark Runkle and his wife Rebecca donated the fully-developed park to the City of Helena, the dedication event included a Kids Push & Pull Parade. This year's event, will feature a similar parade geared towards the young and young at heart. The new Kids Push, Pull & Pedal Parade will include units of up to 5 people with at least one person under the age of 12 being pushed or pulled by way of a decorated wheeled vehicle such as a baby carriage, stroller, wagon or wheel barrow. The units may also include decorated tricycles & scooters. Bicycles are ok if pushed rather than ridden but no motorized vehicles, skateboards or rollerblades due to safety concerns. The unit must contain at least one member 21 or older who is responsible for the unit and include or be sponsored by a person or business that lives or works at Mountain View Meadows. Blue Cross Blue Shield employees and anyone who has contributed to building infrastructure or constructing or selling a new home is welcome to participate. But take note, all members of the unit must be in costume! There is no specific theme so let your imagination run wild. Units will be judged on the basis of originality, fun, color, visual appeal and presentation with bonus points for integrating sound, music or special effects. A grand prize of $100 will be awarded to the winning unit along with several smaller prizes and awards. To register, email [email protected] and we will send you a form or drop by the MVM office at 431 S. Alice St. There is no fee to participate. We can't change everything, but we can make it better!

Building a Better Community:

DON'T FENCE ME IN

This spring marks the 20 th anniversary of the Don't Fence Me In Trail Run, one of Prickly Pear Land Trust's biggest fundraisers supporting its work to preserve open space in the Helena area. Like lots of other events, in light of the COVID-19 health crisis, this year's run got tweaked--virtually. "We just couldn't let such an important community event go by the wayside, so we got a little creative this year," said Executive Director Mary Hollow. "We'll be ringing in the race's big 20th birthday by offering it as a virtual race and a trail challenge. By taking our wanderlust to a whole new level and going "off the grid" of the traditional race structure, we hope that even more folks can join in the fun." Although having launched April 15, the new Trail Challenge will run through June 30th so there's still plenty of time to take part. Here's how it works: Participants can run established 30K, new 20K, 12K and 5K courses and turn in their best times for a shot at prizes or go all-in on a trifecta by turning in times for the 12K, 20K & 30K courses combined. Course maps are available through a special DFMI Strava Club where you can also track the times being shared by your competitors. "In addition," says event coordinator Kelli Butenko, "Everyone, from early birds to night owls, are encouraged to spread their wings on just about any trail, even out of town, and log their miles weekly as part of the Trail Challenge so that we can all see what our community is truly capable of." Trail Challenge categories include running and walking, biking, babies, dogs, and more. With more races, more prizes, more participation and more community spirit, Prickly Pear Land Trust welcomes you to celebrate coming together, celebrating love, fresh air and just letting off some steam and running wild. To register or for more info on the race, course maps, a list of fun awards, and other guidelines, visit the Prickly Pear website at https://pricklypearlt.org/events/dont-fence-me-in-trail-run/ or contact [email protected] . Kids under 17 can register for free.

On Topic:

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR CREDIT IN TOUGH TIMES

Credit scores affect buying power, particularly when it comes to purchasing a new home. A great credit score can save you substantially in lower interest rates and upfront financing fees.

Before you can buy a house, mortgage lenders want to know that you're a low-risk candidate. If you don't have good credit, the fear is you will default on your mortgage and the lender may consider you too risky for a loan. Consequently, your credit score may determine if you qualify. Even if you do qualify, your credit significantly affects the interest rate at which you can borrow money. In other words, a low credit score may cause your loan application to be disapproved or approved at a higher rate. What you want is approval with a lower interest rate which translates into a lower monthly mortgage payment.

During tough times, you may rely on your credit card to keep you afloat, particularly if you haven't prepared for a job lay-off, a cut in hours, or a personal health or family issue. Even if you aren't looking to purchase a new home today, your credit score will determine if you can in the future. So, what can you do to protect your credit now?

Bev O'Shea, in a recent article on NerdWallet, says it is better to prepare than panic and starting now is better than doing nothing. Here is what she suggests for protecting your credit:

Paying on time is the most important factor in your credit score. If you are putting more on your credit cards, it's essential to pay on time - even if it means carrying a balance.
Consider contacting your credit card issuer or lender if you are affected by the coronavirus. You may qualify for some leeway.
Be aware of your credit limits. The amount you owe has a big effect on your score. And if you max out or go over your limit on your credit cards, it hurts your credit score.
If your credit score is good, consider asking for a higher credit limit or apply for a new card with a 0% introductory interest rate. You'll look better on an application if you are below your credit limit and you can save money by lowering your credit card interest rate. However, avoid new credit applications if you are about to finance or refinance a home.

It pays to safeguard your score because having access to credit, at a reasonable interest rate, can help you navigate through rough patches. Keeping your credit in order now will make it easier to qualify for a mortgage and reduce your monthly payments when times get better and you are ready to purchase your new home.

Benefits and Updates:

MOUNTAIN VIEW MEADOWS

1. 4TH OF JULY COMMUNITY CELEBRATION: We want to thank STAHLY ENGINEERING for stepping up to co-sponsor the event again this year. We'll be sending out an email later this week with all that's happening. North Hills Trio band, a favorite during last year's event, is back! There will be delicious tacos, burritos, enchiladas and quesadillas available at the Missionary Food Truck and Shaka Hawaiian Ice will wow you with authentic island shaved ice flavors featuring an unbelievably scrumptious snow-cap topping -- it's the best ever! We're also planning a sidewalk chalk art competition along with the Kids Push, Pull & Pedal Parade. Want to help? Email [email protected] to join the planning committee, judge, post signs or just lend a hand as needed.

2. RV PARKING: It's that time of year when RV's begin to pop up along the sides of streets. At one time, HOA covenants prohibited all RV parking. However, because we live in Montana where there are so many wonderful outdoor activities -- and with Mountain View Meadows just a hop, skip and jump from the Lake -- it was decided to permit responsible RV parking between May 1 and Sept. 30. Responsible parking means adhering to covenants regarding RV's that are intended to keep others safe, respect neighbors, protect home values and maintain the integrity of your neighborhood:

No recreational vehicle of a type of fifth-wheel, motor home, camper, boat or trailer exceeding twenty-two (22) feet in length may be parked on city streets at any time.
Vehicles with a GVW over 1 ton may not park on City streets except for loading and unloading.
No vehicles, RV's, trailers, boats, campers, motorbikes, 4-wheelers, snowmobiles, golf carts, snow blowers or other motorized equipment may be parked or stored on any adjacent lands, parks or open spaces.
At no time may any RV of any type or size parked on city streets:
- be used for overnight accommodations.
- open "pop-outs" or other extensions, with the exception of steps when loading or unloading.
- connect power cords across sidewalks between 7:00 AM and 10:00 PM.
- park in front of another Fee Parcel Owner's property without expressed permission.

Please remember, that the City of Helena may have additional parking restrictions.

3. WILLING TO MOW LAWNS: Some of you asked who to call to mow lawns. Three young people, Peyton, Hudson and Owen, are hoping to earn some extra cash this summer. They are willing to mow Garden Home lawns for $15 each and will stop by your house to quote a price for bigger yards. If this sounds like a fit, call April at 406-475-2749.

New Homes F or Sale:

PLANS TO BUILD AND BUILD TO SUIT

A choice of new homes to meet your lifestyle and budget are ready for move-in at Mountain View Meadows with more under construction. MVM now has a number of home sites that are eligible for 0% down loans. 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 are 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.

The Uplands at Mountain View Meadows

363 Elouise Cobell: This 3BD/2BA single-story Sierra Custom Home is move-in ready! With 1591 S.F. a few of the amenities in this home include a gourmet kitchen with a gas range, gas fireplace, tray ceilings, granite countertops, soft close cabinets, tile floor in baths and laundry, stainless steel appliances, covered porches, and an attached 2-car garage. For more information call Dawn Purvis, Century 21 at 439-6380. $329,900. MLS# 22004787.

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371 Elouise Cobell: Beautiful Sierra Custom Home with all the upscale details you'll love from tray ceilings, arched entryways and a gas fireplace to a tiled walk-in master shower, double vanity and water closet. This exceptional 3BD/2BA 1700 S.F. floorplan includes a tiled laundry/mud room directly off the attached 2-car garage, a large walk-in pantry, a café off the kitchen, a large kitchen island, and an open great room. Sit on your covered front porch or relax on your private covered rear patio or just enjoy upscale living in your new Sierra home. Call Dawn Purvis 406-439-6380 for an appointment. $339,900. MLS# 22004784.

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2686 Summers Crossing: 1716 S.F. 3BD/2BA single-level Sierra Custom Home about to break ground! This brand new floorplan features a zero-barrier front courtyard entry and spacious rear covered patio. Coffered ceiling in the great room with 9' ceilings throughout the rest of the home. The sooner you buy the more choices you'll make on cabinets, granite, tile and flooring along with both interior and exterior colors. Call 431-7680 and we'll email the floorplan and lot location so you can start dreaming about your new home!

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2692 Summers Crossing: A lovely front porch sets off the entry to this 3BD/2BA single-level home ready to start one block south of BCBS. This 1647 S.F. Sierra Custom Home features a fireplace, coffered ceiling in the great room, covered rear patio off the café and an attached 2-car garage. Lock in your historically low interest rate now so you can relax and enjoy watching your home progress from start to finish. Call 431-7680 for additional information.

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Craftsman Village at Mountain View Meadows

235 Bella View: "THE TOWN HALL". A classic you'll love to live in right across from Mountain View Park! Over 1900 S.F., this 2-story craftsman 4-square offers 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths and an upstairs nursery or TV room. A fireplace, central air, side patio, full-front porch and an attached 2-car garage are only a few of the features that make this house the place to call home. Call Anna Havranek at 406-438-1141 for a tour today. Priced at $332,900. MLS# 22001571.

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255 Bella View: "THE PROSPECTOR". 2210 finished square feet with an attached 3-car garage makes this 3BD/2.5BA 2-story one of the most desirable floorplans available in Craftsman Village. Located directly across from Mountain View Park, your new home boasts a large open great room and half bath on the main floor and a huge loft on the upper floor flanked by two bedrooms to the rear and a spacious master suite upfront with park views. Nearly completed, this Sierra Custom Home will be ready in plenty of time to enjoy summer by the park. For additional information call Dawn Purvis at 439-6380. $345,900. MLS# 22002976.

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2897 Stacia Avenue: "THE ASTER". New 2BD/2BA single-story craftsman garden home featuring granite countertops, soft-close cabinets, stainless steel kitchen appliances, electric fireplace and an attached 2-car garage. Comes complete with U.G. water system, front and carriage-lane landscaping and side yard fencing. To tour this home today, please call 449-0800. Still time to choose colors! $239,900.

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2878 Alexis Avenue: "THE MEADOWRUE". Fall in love with the main floor master on this 3BD/2.5BA 1507 S.F. classic craftsman home. Granite countertops, soft-close cabinets, laminate flooring, tiled wet areas, stainless-steel kitchen appliances and a big laundry room provide a great upscale feel in this modestly-priced home. Located just one block from Mountain View Park! For pricing call 449-0800.

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Condos at Mountain View Meadows

2867, 2869, 2875, 2877, 2883 & 2885 Vista Avenue: Brand new Condo floorplan! "Vista" Condos feature rear decks overlooking the open space draw, some with unobstructed mountain views. Street entry into attached 2-car garage with an additional concrete parking pad for your guests. Interior details include open great room with stunning views, 10' tray ceilings, granite countertops, soft-close cabinets, raised breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, tiled wet areas, and master bath with double vanity and walk-in tiled shower. These absolutely will be gone before you know it! 1635 S.F. Condos $309,900. 1660 S.F. Condo $315,000.

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2641 & 2643 Jeannette Rankin Drive: "NEW UPLAND CONDOS!". One for the Parade and one for you! Brand new 2053 S.F. upscale duplex condos underway on Jeannette Rankin Drive in The Uplands neighborhood. Condos feature a spacious 17' x 18' living room with a 10' high tray ceiling, separate dining area off kitchen, huge walk-in pantry, raised breakfast bar, laundry room with sink and cabinets, luxurious master suite featuring 10' tray ceiling, 2 closets (one walk-in), double vanity, private water closet, walk-in tiled shower and separate soaking tub. You'll enjoy design details like granite countertops, tiled wet areas, and lots of closets and each condo comes with a gas fireplace and central air. You'll love the covered outdoor grilling/sitting porch and a 2-car garage with storage room plus the opportunity to add a fence to enclose an exclusive outdoor-use space. Just being framed, stop by when it's safe again to go out and we'll discuss in person your claim on one of these beautiful 3BD/2BA one-of-a-kind single-story condos all with convenient and reliable City of Helena services.

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1285 S.F. UPLAND CONDO. Brand new single-level 2BD/2BA condo just underway. Front porch views, an attached 2-car garage and a covered outdoor living space highlight this Weatherall condo within walking distance of BCBS. Master suite features a vaulted ceiling, walk-in closet, tiled bath & shower, double vanity and private water closet. Open vaulted great room. Soft-close cabinets, stainless-steel kitchen appliances and pantry in kitchen. Priced at $269,900. For additional info, stop by the Info & Sales office at 431 S. Alice St. or call 406-431-7680.

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1464 S.F. UPLAND CONDOS. Two available! Duplex building now under roof available late fall. Single-level condo living to make your dream of a nearly care-free lifestyle a reality. 3BD/2BA plus a covered outdoor living space provides plenty of space to spread out in comfort. Special amenities of this new floorplan include laundry room sink, mechanical room off laundry room, vaulted ceilings and attached 2-car garage. Enjoy upscale finishes like laminate flooring in great room, tiled wet areas, granite countertops and soft-close cabinets. Be the first to choose your side by calling 406-431-7680. $294,900.

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2857 & 2859 Twilight Avenue: New 1219 S.F. duplex condos scheduled for completion late spring -- Absolutely perfect for the "downsizer" or the "first time" home buyer! Condo features 2 bedrooms and 2 baths, a pocket desk, an attached 2-car garage and a covered outdoor living space. Design amenities include granite countertops, soft-close cabinets, water-resistant laminate flooring, tiled laundry, baths and entry, and carpeted bedrooms. Electric or gas range, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher and garbage disposal included! Monthly condo fee is $130 and pays for sidewalk snow removal, mowing and landscaping care as well as exterior building insurance and maintenance. Priced at $254,900. Call now! 406-449-0800.

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Aspen Park at Mountain View Meadows

ASPEN PARK: This view could be yours, but hurry! There are only two walk-out lots facing the Elkhorns still available in Phase I. Stop by the office at 431 S. Alice Street to discuss your plan for a new home at Aspen Park. We'll help you choose the perfect lot and connect you with the best builder to make your dream home a reality.

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Mountain View Meadows | 406-449-0800 | [email protected] | http://www.MVMeadows.com
431 S. Alice Street
Helena, MT 59601

In This Issue

Believe in Better

Building a Better Community

On Topic

Benefits and Updates

New Homes for Sale

The Best in Our Neighborhood

Welcome to the Neighborhood

Fun & Fitness

From Mark & Rebecca

The Best in Our

Neighborhood:

IT'S A BOY!

Did you hear the news? We'd like to welcome the best new member of our neighborhood, Myles Daniel Starkey. Okay, that may not be fair to any other babies born this spring so let's say the best new baby in our Mountain View Meadows family. If you stopped by the MVM Sales & Information Center before the Shelter-at-Home mandate, you may have noticed that office manager Danielle Starkey would have greeted you with a growing baby bump. On the morning of May 19, Danielle and her husband, Jon, welcomed their son into this world. Fortunately Myles waited until fathers were allowed back into the birthing room! Although we miss Danielle's smile -- and the office is not nearly as functional without her -- mom will be home with baby till sometime in July. On behalf of the MVM community, we wish Danielle, Jon and Myles much love and happiness. It's a reminder that good things happen even in the most difficult of times.

Welcome to the

Neighborhood

Brandon Hansen

Has settled into his beautiful "Aster" Garden Home.

Caroline Taranik

Moved and settled into her gorgeous single-level condo in Craftsman Village.

Walter & Carole Cox

Are loving their brand new "classic" condo.

Sherry Held

Is enjoying her cozy new condo on Twilight.

Stacie Bell

Moved into her lovely Sierra Custom Home last week.

Aimee Franks

Recently settled into her spacious "Meadowrue" Garden Home.

Sudie Bladen

Is ready to pick up her keys to her brand new Weatherall Condo.

Congrat ulations!

And Welcome to the Neighborhood!

Fun & Fitness

STRESS RELIEF

If you've turned on the TV lately, read a newspaper or carried a sign, you know that people all across the nation are experiencing high levels of stress. Stress isn't just a mental or emotional issue. It can physically hurt you, too. Chronic tension can lead to long-term conditions like depression, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure as well as headaches, back pain, insomnia, upset stomach, anxiety and anger.

"Just getting up and moving around is a powerful way to reduce stress," says Jeff Migdow, M.D. "But some exercises are better than others. Pursue activities that encourage the mind and body to work together." Below is a list of stress-relieving activities from everydayhealth.com that Migdow recommends.

1. Yoga postures are a form of strength training, making you more resilient and flexible, which in turn relieves physical tension. It also uses deep breathing, triggering the body's relaxation response. Studies show yoga reduces blood pressure, too. But perhaps its biggest benefit is mental focus, a key to stress management.

2. Walking requires no classes or special equipment. Walking frequently can reduce the incidence of many stress-related conditions including cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes.

3. Gardening is actually a low-impact workout that burns calories while providing the stress-busting bonus of putting you in contact with the earth, which refreshes your spirit.

4. Dancing has many physical, mental and emotional benefits. Researchers have found that people who ballroom dance have less risk of developing dementia, perhaps because learning new steps challenges your brain, too. Dancing fosters a sense of community and connection to other people, which lowers stress levels and boosts happiness.

5. Tennis, a great cardio workout, can prevent high blood pressure and heart disease. And because you can't play tennis alone, the sport keeps you connected to others -- a key component of stress reduction. Tennis triggers your brain to release endorphins, the biochemicals that produce euphoric feelings of peace and satisfaction.

6. Circuit Training alternates weight-training moves with cardio. The result is a high-intensity 30-minute workout with the same benefits of longer exercise sessions. It's short, sweet and pumps up your body's endorphin levels, which improves your mood.

7. Pilates is a series of exercises that emphasizes body awareness, core strength and proper alignment. Pilates creates a physical harmony that simply doesn't allow stress to take hold as easily.

From

Mark & Rebecca

COVENANTS?

Yes, we have them. Most of you have figured that out by now and a few of you have gotten a call, a letter or a personal drop-by to discuss an issue. No one is interested in fines so amicably working out a problem makes everyone feel so much better. Google "Covenants" or "HOA's" and you will see that research shows they truly do increase and protect your home value. And with your home being, for most of you, your #1 investment, then supporting and abiding by the covenants will benefit you in the long run. Nobody really likes being told what to do. If you love a pink door and fight your HOA to have one, you may change your attitude when your neighbor paints his house turquoise. And it doesn't take too many poorly cared-for yards, fences or homes to transform a beautiful streetscape with desirable properties into a declining, shabby neighborhood. Our approval process for a home or parcel improvement is pretty simple and working through it saves everyone time and trouble. Most people get what they want, a few, unfortunately do not, and the rest are willing to compromise. No one wins when an improvement goes in without approval. Just ask the guy on Stacia that had to first remove a wooden deck before the sale on his home could go through. We knew nothing about the deck because it was behind his fence. If he'd provided a plan as required by Covenants, we could have explained the location was against the city set-back requirements and the structure encroached on his neighbor's property even with an easement. We don't pretend to know all the answers and we learn from you all the time. But please take into consideration some of the photos below the next time you find yourself dismayed about covenants and design standards. Remember their purpose is not control over your life but the health, safety and well-being of you and your neighbor, the protection of your property and the value of your home and our community.

Warning! These photos are NOT US!