Melody Anderson

European-style castle ruins resting upon the highest bluff in the Lake area is the focal point of one of Missouri's most fascinating state parks.

Built originally by a Kansas City businessman the castle was first utilized as a mansion retreat, and later as a hotel. Gutted by fire in the 1940's, and purchased by the State of Missouri in the 1970's, the castle ruins inspire awe when viewed by land or water or sky.

Located just 5 miles from Camdenton's Town Square, Ha Ha Tonka state park is a geographical wonderland of rock formations, bluffs, caves, sinkholes, hiking trails, springs and lush vegetation that has become a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike.

This park is a favorite place for me to steal away an hour or two in the afternoon when I'm in need of a bit of a retreat. Somedays I enjoy sitting on benches near the castle just to enjoy the quiet - and in the summer months - to do a bit of people watching.

Look for lots of posts in the weeks and months to come about our area parks - such as The Lake of the Ozarks State Park and the near-by Katy Trail. There's so much to see and enjoy, and no doubt there's many parts of them I haven't seen yet. If you have a favorite activity or spot at one of these parks, I would love to hear about them.

(This article was originally posted at Ha Ha Tonka State Park Castle Ruins.)

$7500 tax credit for first-time homebuyers

If you have not owned a home or condo in the past 3 years - or have never owned a home - this is a particularly good time to buy. Area lenders have many good loan packages available - such as a USDA first-time homebuyers loan package - that not only offers good fixed rate financing, but oftentimes allows 100% financing. And now, thanks to a special tax incentive bill that has become effective, you could receive a $7500 tax credit if you buy a home between April 8, 2008 to July 1, 2009.

It's important to note that this is a tax credit, and not simply a deduction. How great is that?!

If you have a reasonably good credit score, a steady employment history (or other reliable income sources), and can otherwise quality, you can take full advantage of a down market. Call or email me and I'll give you a list of local lenders who can help you determine whether or not you will qualify.

(Article originally posted at my community and real estate blog: $7500 tax credit for first-time homebuyers.)

County Clerk's office to open on Saturday for early voters

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I was surprised to encounter this site Wednesday as I stopped in at the Camden County Clerk's office to place an absentee vote. Arriving jshortly after lunch, I had a little bit of a wait while 4 clerks checked in other voters in line ahead of me.

Demand for early voting is so high that the County Clerk's office is scheduled to be opened on Saturday, Nov. 2 until noon.

With Missouri being such a hotly contended battleground state for the Presidential election, one can't help but wonder the effects of such a strong turnout.

(This article originally appeared on my community and real estate blog: www.PostcardsFromTheLake.com.)