About Cochise County, AZ

We crossed the state line from New Mexico into Arizona yesterday at about 4:00, coming home from GlenMar Ranch in Oklahoma. It wasn't long before we could see the smoke of a wildfire in the distance. I called 911, and they put me in touch with State Forestry.

I pulled over at the exit nearest the location of the fire to take photos. I emailed this and one other to KVOA Channel 4, and made the 10:00 news!

The fire is on BLM land near the ghost town of Dos Cabezas. As I write this morning, I don't know the outcome. The wind was blowing pretty hard yesterday afternoon.

When I find out more, I'll let you know.

_______________________________

I'm Mike in Tucson, your preferred Tucson, AZ Mortgage lender.

Think of me as your Tucson expert. Call me for more info on vacationing in Tucson.

Or call me if I can help you with a purchase or refi mortgage;
(520) 349-9090

Photos copyright Mike in Tucson. All rights reserved.

I love a Mom and Pop restaurant! Don't you?! And they are even better when you just stumble upon them!

Last weekend, on the way home from business in Sierra Vista, Arizona, driving down Highway 92, my family and I slowed for a checkpoint. While waiting, I see a strip mall off the side of the road. Here's what caught my eye -

OPEN -- Southern Cooking -- and CLEAN!

Okay - I was hungry and game for some good old fashioned southern food and talked the hubby into stopping!

First of all -- the restaurant wasn't just clean - it was immaculate. Nothing fancy, but very functional and homey. I noticed that on every wall there was some sort of scripture or verse related to Family. Hence the name, Family Tree Restaurant. There was lots of dining space and an old-fashioned soda bar with swivel bar stools!

Being careful about what I eat for 90% of the year (I tend to splurge from time to time on things that aren't the best for me - but are the best tasting!)- my family and I quickly reviewed the menu and decided on a sirloin burger with fries, lightly breaded catfish (YES - catfish - haven't had that since I lived in Augusta, Georgia) and my daughter settled on ravioli with no sauce.

In a nutshell - this is a true family, owned and operated establishment. They put their heart, soul and all their money into this American dream. The owners value their customers and try very hard to make it as comfortable as home. At first, we were the only customers in the restaurant, but quickly, it began filling up with people just passing by. And the owners were excited! The food was more than generous, it was "light" considering it was gently fried and it was cooked and served quickly!

Here is how I know these folks have a good sense of family - while we were eating, my daughter lost yet another tooth. At that moment the chef came over and asked how everything was. Happily, my daughter shrieks, "It's all great except for a tooth that came out in my pasta!" The chef got such a kick out of it and took the time to sit and talk with her about the Tooth Fairy!

If you happen to be in Sierra Vista or Huachuca City, Arizona - and are feeling like some good ole' southern cooking, make sure you stop at the Family Tree Restaurant!

Gabrielle (Kamahele) Rhind - 2009. If you want to reprint parts of this - just email me for my permission rhindohana@msn.com. Buying or selling Tucson Arizona Real Estate? Click info@gabriellerhind.com and let me know how I can help you! Or visit www.BuyMyTucsonHome.com

A week ago, I spent part of a Sunday afternoon in Bisbee, Arizona. While waiting to meet a client before we went to view the Loma Linda Mansion, I had a chance to wander down a side street, away from the tourist area for a few minutes - you never know what's around the corner in an old mining town!

First thing that caught my eye was an old Indian Motorcycle ad painted on the side of a building - someone has spruced it up and done a little restoration to it. Made me think of my days in Durango, Colorado tending bar in a place dedicated & decorated with restored Indians & memorabilia (the bar stools were actually replicas of the saddle on the old Indian Chieftain model). Cool!

As I wandered down to get a better angle to take a photo, I noticed this taxi. One thing I love about the west, old mining towns in particular...is the wry sense of humor that underscores a hardscrabble life. Think I'll let the taxi speak for itself:

Topic: Real Estate Q&A Ask Brad Questions
Guest: Brad Snyder

Download this episode (right click and save)

02/14/2009 I

“Open House” is a radio show dedicated entirely to the subject of Sierra Vista and Cochise County real estate. My name is Brad Snyder and I'm a REALTOR and Property Manager at Sierra Vista Realty and I host the show. This program has been designed to bring you news and information you can use. Each week I will have guest experts including REALTORS, appraisers, remodelers, and many others talking about what they know best and answering your questions and concerns. My goal is to inspire, empower, and enlighten as we discuss issues that effect homeownership and yes….we will even talk about this weekends open houses.

The broadcast is designed to be a resource for anyone interested in selling, buying, or just protecting your investment in Sierra Vista and Cochise County. I hope to bring my unique experience and passion for Cochise County real estate to a community of listeners.

Bradley Syder - Realtor and Sierra Vista Proprty Manager
www.BradSnyder.com

Topic: Plumbing Facts and Tips
Guest: Jerry Dickamore, owner of Huachuca Plumbing

“Open House” is a radio show dedicated entirely to the subject of Sierra Vista and Cochise County real estate. My name is Brad Snyder and I'm a REALTOR and Property Manager at Sierra Vista Realty and I host the show. This program has been designed to bring you news and information you can use. Each week I will have guest experts including REALTORS, appraisers, remodelers, and many others talking about what they know best and answering your questions and concerns. My goal is to inspire, empower, and enlighten as we discuss issues that effect homeownership and yes….we will even talk about this weekends open houses.

The broadcast is designed to be a resource for anyone interested in selling, buying, or just protecting your investment in Sierra Vista and Cochise County. I hope to bring my unique experience and passion for Cochise County real estate to a community of listeners.

Brad Snyder
www.BradSnyder.com