Kent Simpson REALTOR® and some other alphabet soup

"Gee, I would like to make my home more energy efficient...but the cost is just too much."

"Putting in a solar system is a good idea, but unaffordable."

"By utilizing local incentives, I found it was well within my budget to build a Green Home."

These statements are being heard more often nowadays - with the shock of rising energy costs, increasing awareness of sustainable living and other reasons, Renewable Energy & Efficient Buildings are starting to become a reality instead of a dream. There are federal, state and local programs to help offset the expense.

Where can one find out more about the available incentives in a particular location? One website can be a great place to start: Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE)

Established in 1995 and funded by the US Dept. of Energy, the database is updated & maintained by the North Carolina Solar Center and the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC).

Just click on your state, and you're on your way! See, wasn't that easy?

Growing up on a farm outside of Las Cruces, I have to admit that I yearned to leave the first chance I could. Having spent years in various parts of the United States, many touched a nerve but none captured my soul like the Desert Southwest. Tucson is my home now and I love "The Old Pueblo" however my soul remains in The Mesilla Valley. Appreciating Las Cruces and its people for what it was, is and can be, is very satisfying.

My family has owned this farm north of Fairacres since 1932. Bordered on the east by the Rio Grande River, the western side is bounded by mesa and BLM land.

Last September our family threw a 75th Anniversary Party for Simpson Farm. The idea was to pay homage to the farming heritage of Las Cruces in addition to that of our ancestors. The payoff was to feel good about it & having a great time, seeing old friends, touching base with family and stirring the desire to someday come back to live where my roots are. As August speeds by, the memories of last year's celebration are still vivid.

My father announced his retirement from farming at the celebration...with the support of my mother.

A constant factor in farming, as in most of life is change. From horse-drawn plows to steel wheeled tractors and the wonders of laser-leveling and drip irrigation. Dad's retirement was another change: his father and grandfather farmed until the day they died - he is still young enough to enjoy what retirement brings and experience new adventures!

Despite his retirement, the heritage of farming remains as another farmer has leased the land...he used to work for Simpson Farm when he was in college. My father is still fulfilling his role as steward of the land his forefathers nurtured.

I hope you enjoyed these few pictures, perhaps they will awaken feelings of your own heritage. Though Las Cruces is ever-growing and evolving, it retains the sense of community and special character that touch new residents and visitors alike. Perhaps it has something to do with the best enchiladas the world has to offer! Tom Wolfe...you were wrong, sir: you CAN go home again.

Kent Simpson

Most cities have a network of parks and a few recreational activities offered through the municipal government--we pay for it through taxes and come to expect it. I've noticed through the years that Tucson seems to offer more than a lot of other places I've lived, but until yesterday, never really had much of an idea about the incredibly broad scope and outstanding programs offered!

At a local health fair, I noticed a booth manned by a staffer from Tucson Parks & Rec. In just a few minutes, I was blown away as she gave me a brief overview of the programs and services they offer. Rather than have her spend 20 or 30 minutes just to tell me more, I grabbed a booklet (64 Pages!) to study on my own time.

WOW! It is truly amazing what they have for the community--fitness centers with top quality equipment, after-school programs, seniors programs, an amazing array of classes, events and activities, parent-child interactive programs...you name it. NOW I know why the young lady beamed when she told me that Tucson Parks & Rec is regarded as one of the best in the nation! Click on the logo above to check it out yourself.

Just an hour south of Tucson is an area of rolling grass-covered hills, known as "Arizona's Wine Country." The town of Elgin, perhaps village is the more appropriate moniker, is the heart of the region's wine production surrounded by horse property.

Rich soil and friendly growing conditions have attracted winemakers to the area, some garnering acclaim from oenophiles and industry critics worldwide.

Arizona Wine Growers Association

Canelo Hills Vineyard & Winery

Callaghan Vineyards

Dos Cabezas Wineworks

About Arizona Wines

Canelo Vineyards & Winery

Tim & Joan Mueller are very gracious hosts at Canelo Hills Winery.

Even though they were just about to shut down the tasting room for the day, Joan allowed me to come in and shoot a few photos.

Callaghan Vineyards

The scenery is spectacular in the area. Views abound in all directions. This is looking southeast, just down the road from the vineyards.

As you go northeast from the valley floor, you will see yuccas and other types of vegetation.

In addition to wineries, the Sonoita/Elgin area is attracting people who love the open space and proximity to the Coronado National Forest. It is a horse lover's paradise! Most parcels are a minimum of 10-20 acres and have deed restrictions against mobile homes.

While power is readily available, wind an solar systems are prevalent as supplemental supply sources.

Sam Hughes is one of those "magical" neighborhoods one finds in some cities that blends a mix of architectural styles, a diverse population of students, professionals and families, seniors, small shops & businesses into an eclectic blend that is greater than the sum of its parts. The neighborhood is bigger than the individuals who inhabit it.

Bordered by the University of Arizona (Campbell Avenue) to the east, Country Club Road to the west, Speedway & Broadway Boulevards to the north and south, it has enjoyed Historic Neighborhood status since 1994. Given its proximity to the U of A, one can walk to sports or cultural activities, a wide variety of restaurants and is home to businesses that are Tucson "institutions" like Rincon Market and Bob Dobbs' restaurant.

Many homes in Sam Hughes were originally built to house teachers for the elementary school that bears its name. An historic apartment building (now condos), the El Encanto Apartments graces 6th Street with its atmosphere of a grand past--some of the cottages were built as housing for generals while the bulk were elegant officer's quarters. Others include those of professors and locals who enjoyed living close to the world of academia. Over the years, additions and modifications by successive owners give a sense of intrigue when exploring homes in the neighborhood. While street-facing exteriors may be similar, one never quite knows what will be behind the front door! Highlights can include lovingly preserved hardwood floors, the rare basement in Tucson, niches and curved accents...with modern touches like granite counters, travertine and updated systems. Many properties incorporate eco-friendly aspects.

Landscaping and gardening is marked by well-planned desert flora, giving the area a manicured and "cared for" feeling. It is a vibrant, active community of people in different walks of life.

Should you ever visit Tucson, be sure to take part of a morning & enjoy a walk through the neighborhood. Stroll from the University, meander your own path along the streets, pick up a sandwich along the way and enjoy it on the other side at Himmel Park. You won't be disappointed!

Who was Sam Hughes? Please visit the link below to find a short biography.

Who Was Sam Hughes? Sam Hughes Neighborhood Association Sam Hughes Listings