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Baseball / Spring Training / 2012 Cactus League / Athletics / Phoenix Real Estate

Jim Plummer — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 17:27:19 +0000

City of Phoenix / Phoenix Municipal Stadium:

Welcome to Phoenix! It’s the city that helped many other communities like Scottsdale, Tempe, Paradise Valley, Cave Creek and many valley communities grow. It’s the 6th largest city in the United States and still growing. No matter how hot it gets in the summer, people still come for work, play, and retirement. There are so many basis to cover about Phoenix, but I’ll let you see for yourself with no explanation necessary.

On the other hand, Phoenix is home of the Arizona Diamondbacks, right? Think again. The spring home of the Oakland Athletics sits at Phoenix Municipal Stadium and they are armed and ready to get going and make the run for October.

Lets Talk Oakland Athletics Baseball:

Needless to say, the Athletics had a rough 2011 season with not having enough hitting in place than expected. They had some significant injuries, which threw the team off. There was no much what show for. For one, it cost Bob Geren’s his job during the season and Bob Melvin took over. Defensively, they were one the worst teams in the league in terms of errors. It was a long season, but Bob Melvin has retained his managerial position and will have his work cut out for him.

Looking ahead, the Athletics’ hitting is something they need to improve. They have to develop these hitters into All-Star caliber. The big hit against this team during the offseason was they lost their top producer and left Fielder Josh Willingham to Minnesota. Newly acquired Seth Smith was a good pick up from Colorado. He could be in the clean-up spot. The Athletics have picked up a few other pieces including right fielder, Josh Reddick from Boston. If their hitting team remains healthy this year, and play solid, including on defense, then who knows what could lead them.

Pitching will be something to keep close eyes on. Rotation in their starting staff is something they need to keep a watchful eye on. Will Trevor Cahill get the opening start? Only Bob Melvin will have to decide. Though, I do feel the acquisition of Gio Gonzales (3.12 ERA) from Washington is a great pick up, and he very well could get the opening start. This spring will be a huge time for Oakland to determine those remaining spots in their rotation.

Overall, the competition of the American League West is going to be a challenge for the Athletics. The playoff contention is a long shot, but think about it. Bob Melvin has managed some good developing teams in the past. Are their signs to come for a surprise contention to come for the Athletics? We may not be surprised after-all. He came close in 2003 as first year manager on the Mariners and in 2007 he took the Diamondbacks to the playoffs, then lost in the National league Championship Series to the Rockies, and was named the NL Manager of the year. There maybe something in store we don’t know about.

Phoenix Real Estate For Sale for Oakland Athletics Fans

Showing properties 1 – 10 of 53. See more 85008 zip code real estate.
(all data current as of 2/6/2012)

$105,000 : 4051 E Vernon Avenue, Phoenix

3 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,500 sq ft

Lot size: 16,244 sq ft
$99,000 : 3543 E Yale Street, Phoenix

5 beds, 3.00 baths

Home size: 2,971 sq ft

Lot size: 9,586 sq ft
$87,900 : 3344 E Yale Street, Phoenix

3 beds, 1.00 baths

Home size: 1,670 sq ft

Lot size: 8,346 sq ft
$154,900 : 4228 E Vernon Avenue, Phoenix

3 beds, 1.75 baths

Home size: 1,943 sq ft

Lot size: 11,408 sq ft
$274,900 : 5401 E Lewis Avenue, Phoenix

3 beds, 2.50 baths

Home size: 2,444 sq ft

Lot size: 11,347 sq ft
$189,900 : 2528 N 48th Place, Phoenix

3 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,936 sq ft

Lot size: 11,191 sq ft
$159,900 : 4339 E Coronado Road, Phoenix

3 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 2,020 sq ft

Lot size: 10,298 sq ft
$200,000 : 5410 E Oak Street, Phoenix

2 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,515 sq ft

Lot size: 34,788 sq ft
$220,000 : 4104 E Oak Street, Phoenix

3 beds, 3.00 baths

Home size: 1,840 sq ft

Lot size: 16,396 sq ft
$125,000 : 3717 E Sheridan Street, Phoenix

3 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,464 sq ft

Lot size: 6,207 sq ft

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Baseball / Spring Training / 2012 Cactus League / Angels / Tempe Real Estate

Jim Plummer — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 16:56:19 +0000

City of Tempe / Tempe Diablo Stadium:

When you think of Tempe, many people would think Arizona State University(ASU), right? Not always or at all is Tempe only revolved around ASU. Tempe is in the near central location of the valley connecting the east valley communities of Chandler, Gilbert, and Mesa. Plus, Scottsdale is to the north and Phoenix is to the west were downtown is only 10 minutes away by car or you can actually take the Valley Metro light rail. There’s more to Tempe than location, location, location. Tempe is the community for culture. You can see some live performances at the Tempe Center for the Arts. Tempe is the community for history. You can learn more about the historical events of Tempe at the Tempe History Museum. Temple is also the city of recreation. You can take a run or attend various outdoor events along the Tempe Town Lake. These are a few things to do that will keep Tempe in touch with you. What else is there Tempe has to offer? Spring training baseball is around the corner and is the spring home of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim!

Lets Talk Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim Baseball:

2011 was a tough ending for the Angels, but manager Mike Scioscia, and now the longest tenured manager in the league really has kept this team consistent over the years for contending for at least a playoff spot, including the World Series title in 2002. This past year was a really was a season of getting the team energized with young talent. Obviously, he did what he had to do, and did well when the Angels came short from the playoffs.

Everybody in the American League better look out for the Angels this year. I have a feeling their hitting will come out in force and will be one of the best in the big leagues. One of their top sluggers, Torri Hunter will be a huge threat again more than likely at cleanup. Their first baseman Mark Trumbo had a very solid rookie season, and came short for rookie of the year. He’ll will make sure his rookie performance was no fluke in his sophomore season. However, a huge signing could take Trumbo’s spot at First Base. Can you say Albert Pujols? Without doubt, Mike Scioscia will have his work cut for him for shifting positions. Trumbo needs to play somewhere in the infield or perhaps become their designated hitter. Of course, nobody can forget Bobby Abreu. We know what he can do. Last and not least, I like Peter Bourjos’ game. Yes, he may not have major power, plus he dealt with a high strikeout / at bat ratio, but his speed and his defensive abilities in the outfield are winning many fans over. I do believe he’ll have a huge year if his SO/AB ratio improves and his fundamentals keep getting better.

Pitching is the key to the Angels’ success. Again, I believe Jared Weaver, Dan Harren, and CJ Wilson will be at the top of their pitching games again at the top three spots in the starting rotation. There’s nothing to question about those guys. Closer, Jordan Walden had 30 saves last year, and he’ll be fine. The pitching will be a huge threat again, for sure.

Overall, if several young players including Bourjos, have huge break out seasons, Trumbo is consistent or even better, and all their star players play like All-stars, this team really has a shot to win it all, no matter what other teams have obtained during the off season.

Tempe Real Estate For Sale for Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim Fans:

Showing properties 1 – 10 of 294. See more city of Tempe real estate.
(all data current as of 2/5/2012)

$100,000 : 1320 E Redfield Road, Tempe

3 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,444 sq ft

Lot size: 7,405 sq ft
$180,000 : 1845 E Pebble Beach Drive, Tempe

4 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 2,429 sq ft

Lot size: 6,000 sq ft
$99,900 : 609 E Mesquite Circle, Unit B103, Tempe

3 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,444 sq ft

Lot size: 1,444 sq ft
$104,900 : 4407 S Elm Street, Tempe

4 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,590 sq ft

Lot size: 8,224 sq ft
$100,000 : 324 W Santa Cruz Drive, Tempe

3 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,048 sq ft

Lot size: 6,922 sq ft
$125,000 : 6240 S Country Club Way, Tempe

4 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,984 sq ft

Lot size: 7,688 sq ft
$97,000 : 1103 E Bluebell Lane, Tempe

3 beds, 1.75 baths

Home size: 1,550 sq ft

Lot size: 6,464 sq ft
$109,900 : 3615 S Margo Drive, Tempe

3 beds, 2.50 baths

Home size: 1,544 sq ft

Lot size: 17,500 sq ft
$250,000 : 1224 E Sunburst Lane, Tempe

4 beds, 2.50 baths

Home size: 2,537 sq ft

Lot size: 10,677 sq ft
$270,000 : 2929 S Bala Drive, Tempe

4 beds, 3.00 baths

Home size: 2,214 sq ft

Lot size: 10,621 sq ft

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Baseball / Spring Training / 2012 Cactus League / Mariners / Padres / Peoria Real Estate

Jim Plummer — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:03:43 +0000

City of Peoria / Peoria Sports Complex:

This wonderful community of Peoria is part of the west valley with many things to do in the community and outside. Peoria is surrounded by many recreational activities, theaters and shopping. If you are a space historian, the place you may want to visit is the Challenger Space Center of Arizona, just to remember and tell your kids what occurred that winter Florida day in 1986. Peoria provides plenty of live arts entertainment as well. There are two live performing arts theaters including the Arizona Broadway Theatre and Peoria Performing Arts Center. To enjoy the 70 to 80 degree days, there are plenty of recreational activities nearby as well. Lake Pleasant is nearby for you to go camping, boating, sailing, water and jet skiing, and fishing. There are plenty of golf courses in the community.

Most importantly, Peoria is the spring home on the Seattle Mariners and the San Diego Padres. These two teams will train once again at the Peoria Sports Complex and make their run for baseball greatness in 2012. Let alone, there is plenty of real estate, if you look to own a place for spring training, or transplant to Peoria. I will take care of you.

Lets Talk Seattle Mariners Baseball:

Looking at last year’s record for the Mariners, and yes, it was pretty bad. However, they still did not lose 100 games during the 2011 campaign. Yes, not losing 100 games is something to build on when manager Eric Wedge and his staff were developing these players. They were scoping out these young players for the future, which is 2012.

The outlook for the 2012 season is going to be something exciting for Mariner fans. They are working hard to develop the talent of this team with solid prospects. For one, they just picked up from the Yankees. Jesus Montero is going to be one heck of a ball player for this team with his arm strength as a catcher. However, he may be their designated hitter for now. Plus, with Ichiroin the lineup, still will provide more solid punches at the bat.

From pitching, Seattle has their number one starter, and former Cy Young Award Winner, Felix Fernandez to throw some of his best stuff and challenge his best opponents on the bump. The rest of the starting rotation is young, and may not have dominant numbers. Carl Edwards is a very solid pitching coach and will work on those remaining four to improve their mechanics and numbers. I don’t have any doubt Brandon League with 37 saves in 2011, will have any problems closing games again this year.

Overall, I believe this team has all the potential to be good for years to come. Will the Mariners be a playoff team? If could happen. There’s plenty of competition in their American League Western division. Eric Wedge is a good manager, and with his experience while he was the manager the Cleveland Indians, I do believe can do the same of working this team to make winning strides in Seattle. If this young team develops fast, then they have a good chance to stay in playoff contention through September.

Lets Talk San Diego Padres Baseball:

Lets face it. The National League West was extremely competitive in 2011 as the San Diego Padres had their work cut out for them and finished in the basement. Obviously, their hitting didn’t provide much of anything for the team. After the season ended, the team appeared to be in shambles as some positions in the front office were shifted. After that last pitch of 2011, the team really didn’t know the direction they were going, or did they?

The outlook for the 2012 became a different picture as new General Manager, Josh Byrnesand his staff have found ways to pick up a few solid players for the Padres. Still, they will have their work cut out to evaluate the talent of the team. I also believe it starts from the farm system. There are six players ranked in the 100 top prospects for this year. That’s a start for the future along with some veteran players they picked up.

The 2011 offense was not up to par with the lack of scoring power. This year, they’ll work on relying on outfielder, Camerin Maybin, who has good speed and the fundamentals to get runners home. I feel his last year’s performance will get better at a young age of 24. Plus, the two time all star from the American League, Carlos Quentin is a solid pick up from the White Sox. There are some bright spots in the lineup, but feel there will be some shifting throughout the year to determine what batting positions fit best.

The Padres’ pitching rotation is really not bad at all. Actually, this rotation looks good on paper. Two of their pitchers Tim Stauffer and Cory Luebke are very solid at the top part of the rotation and could be one of the leagues elite pitchers in the league. To me Padre fans, their records from last year were good and close to .500 mark from last year doesn’t mean anything. Stauffer (3.41 ERA) and Luebke (3.09 ERA) can make hitters fearful in the league. Run supports were all they needed. Adam Harang (3.64 ERA) from the Dodgers is an extremely good pick up for them. He could be second or third in the rotation. The closing position is nothing to worry about with another huge pickup in Heath Bell, with 43 saves with the Marlins in 2011.

Overall, this could be an interesting year for the Padres in the National League West. The hitting could be average to good without superstar numbers, but if the pitching holds up and Bell does his job at closer, they could be another team everyone should look out for this year.

Peoria Real Estate For Sale for Seattle Mariners and San Diego Padres Fans:

Showing properties 1 – 10 of 468. See more city of Peoria real estate.
(all data current as of 2/2/2012)

$140,000 : 9207 W Topeka Drive, Peoria

2 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 2,350 sq ft

Lot size: 9,415 sq ft
$209,900 : 8903 W Daley Lane, Peoria

4 beds, 2.50 baths

Home size: 2,188 sq ft

Lot size: 16,219 sq ft
$130,000 : 8882 W Piute Avenue, Peoria

2 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,448 sq ft

Lot size: 4,488 sq ft
$180,000 : 9247 W Black Hill Road, Peoria

4 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 2,337 sq ft

Lot size: 7,195 sq ft
$199,900 : 18825 N 96th Avenue, Peoria

2 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,653 sq ft

Lot size: 7,260 sq ft
$170,000 : 7209 W Lone Tree Trail, Peoria

4 beds, 3.00 baths

Home size: 3,110 sq ft

Lot size: 7,200 sq ft
$125,000 : 8713 W Mcrae Way, Peoria

2 beds, 1.75 baths

Home size: 1,560 sq ft

Lot size: 7,200 sq ft
$165,000 : 6731 W Bloomfield Road, Peoria

4 beds, 3.00 baths

Home size: 2,364 sq ft

Lot size: 10,986 sq ft
$154,900 : 39410 N Quintero Lane, Unit 2, Peoria

2 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,852 sq ft

Lot size: 1,825 sq ft
$199,000 : 19839 N 86th Avenue, Peoria

2 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,691 sq ft

Lot size: 8,587 sq ft

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Baseball / Spring Training / 2012 Cactus League / Giants / Old Town Scottsdale Real Estate

Jim Plummer — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 18:45:26 +0000

City of Scottsdale / Old Town Scottsdale / Scottsdale Stadium:

The excitement is in the air! As I talk about the communities where spring training games are held, the teams and real estate, the first I would like to talk about is Old Town Scottsdale. Old Town Scottsdale is the spring home of the San Francisco Giants, as they train and play their spring home games at Scottsdale Stadium.

Old Town Scottsdale is the central location for entertainment. Old Town Scottsdale is a vibrant location with plenty of art galleries, varieties of restaurants, taverns, and tons of shopping including Scottsdale Fashion Square. These attractions are what makes Old Town Scottsdale great, and many people want to live there. Besides, what’s even greater? You can own real estate in Old Town Scottsdale and walk to Scottsdale Stadium to see Cactus League baseball action and the San Francisco Giants!

Lets Talk San Francisco Giants Baseball:

2011 was a very competitive season across the National League. Was the 2010 championship season a fluke for the Giants? It certainly was not. Manager Bruce Bochy still did a good job managing this team in 201, but just came 4 games short from the wildcard, when the NL West’s Arizona Diamondbacks put the nail in the coffin during the last series against them. Think about it, Bochy had to make many shuffles in his lineups due to injuries and the trade for Carlos Beltran from the New York Mets, as a rental for the final push for the playoffs, but still came short.

The outlook for 2012 remains solid in my opinion. I do believe if the Giants can keep the line-up in-tact if they do not have the injuries like they did last year. If so, they are back in the playoff hunt and could become World Series contenders again. Offensively, hitting is still pretty solid, but some key players from 2010 championship team are gone. However, key acquisitions of Melky Cabrera and Angel Pagan could add some depth. There are no major power hitters, and the team is not filled with a whole lot of speed. Now Carlos Beltran brief 2011 stay with the Giants are not going to help matters in hitting, but manager Bruce Bochy knows how to manage this lineup that is not too flashy. If managed properly, and the team has and buys his fundamentals in the game, he could have a contending lineup.

The starting pitching rotation is extremely solid again this year, along with their number one aceTim Lincecum, whose Earn Run Average (ERA) was just over 3.00. Four of the five projected starters for this year had ERA’s from 3.04 to 3.55 in 2011. It’s a solid rotation, which none had losing records. In the pen, I feel they have a solid setup roster, but if closer Brian Wilson remains consistent to put out the fire, look out. “Fear the beard” right?

Overall, if they play the proper fundamentals, stay healthy, I believe the Giants will be back in World Series form. Bruce Bochy knows how to manage this team, and will be extremely competitive against other teams. From the wildcard standpoint, I see contenders from the National League East, Central, and certainly the West all have that shot. From the West, the San Francisco Giants are still in that category. A solid manager and good pitching are the keys to get at least a wildcard berth.

Old Town Scottsdale Real Estate For Sale for San Francisco Giants Fans:

Showing properties 1 – 10 of 116. See more 85251 zip code real estate.
(all data current as of 2/1/2012)

$534,000 : 7117 E Rancho Vista Drive, Unit 2005, Scottsdale

2 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,635 sq ft

Lot size: 1,635 sq ft
$239,000 : 4200 N Miller Road, Unit 111, Scottsdale

3 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,419 sq ft

Lot size: 1,389 sq ft
$279,000 : 7141 E Rancho Vista Drive, Unit 1007, Scottsdale

1 bed, 1.00 baths

Home size: 888 sq ft

Lot size: 887 sq ft
$245,000 : 4710 N 70th Street, Scottsdale

3 beds, 3.00 baths

Home size: 2,163 sq ft

Lot size: 13,888 sq ft
$200,000 : 8545 E Heatherbrae Drive, Scottsdale

3 beds, 2.50 baths

Home size: 1,850 sq ft

Lot size: 7,032 sq ft
$179,000 : 7960 E Camelback Road, Unit 201, Scottsdale

2 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,369 sq ft

Lot size: 1,581 sq ft
$295,000 : 4200 N Miller Road, Unit 423, Scottsdale

3 beds, 2.75 baths

Home size: 1,977 sq ft
$145,000 : 8339 E Devonshire Avenue, Scottsdale

3 beds, 1.75 baths

Home size: 1,416 sq ft

Lot size: 7,074 sq ft
$259,000 : 7181 E Camelback Road, Unit 1031, Scottsdale

1 bed, 1.00 baths

Home size: 525 sq ft
$209,900 : 8701 E Columbus Avenue, Scottsdale

4 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 2,042 sq ft

Lot size: 8,426 sq ft

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

No Phoenix Open Golf? No Problem!

Jim Plummer — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:07:02 +0000

No Phoenix Open Golf? No Problem!

The tournament is fast approaching! The excitement is in the air to determine the 2012 Waste Management Phoenix Open champion. Not to forget, the parties, and other events at the TPC Scottsdale, which will draw huge crowds. Are you up for it? Are you excited? Maybe not? You don’t want to go? I totally understand.

The Phoenix Open, golf, parties, and the huge crowds are not for everyone. So, we are fortunate to have many other events besides golf that Scottsdale has to offer. Here are a few events taking place in Scottsdale during the tournament. All events are FREE!

Thursday, February 2th, 2012:

ArtBridge Thursdays @ Marshall Way Pedestrian Bridge: 6:00 – 10:00 PM: Cost: FREE!

Docent-led Tours of SMoCA @ Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art – 1:30 PM: Cost: FREE!

Native Trails @ Scottsdale Civic Center Park – 12:00 – 1:30 PM: Cost: FREE!

Scottsdale ArtWalk in Downtown Scottsdale – 7:00 – 9:00 PM: Cost: FREE!

Friday, February 3th, 2012:

Native American Dancing @ Hyatt Regency Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch: 5:00 PM – Cost: FREE!

Saturday, February 4th, 2012:

Native Trails @ Scottsdale Civic Center Park: 12:00 – 1:30 PM - Cost: FREE!

Old Town Farmer’s Market @ Brown Avenue & First Street: 8:30 – 1:00 PM – Cost: FREE!

Sunday, February 5th, 2012:

Real Estate Day! If you are on the market for a home in Scottsdale, Sunday during the final round is a perfect time do view some homes. I will set you with lenders first to help you get pre-qualified! There are plenty Scottsdale Real Estate to choose from. I am your agent who will assist you in finding you a home and connecting you to the best lenders here in the valley. My number one priority is to take care of you.

Scottsdale Real Estate For Sale:

If you are on the market for real estate in Scottsdale, here are some of the homes currently active on the market. I am the agent with a passion to work with you!

Showing properties 1 – 10 of 500+. See more city of Scottsdale real estate.
(all data current as of 1/24/2012)

$399,900 : 9021 E Sharon Drive, Scottsdale

4 beds, 3.00 baths

Home size: 2,628 sq ft

Lot size: 9,893 sq ft
$465,000 : 24552 N 116th Street, Scottsdale

4 beds, 2.50 baths

Home size: 3,042 sq ft

Lot size: 10,019 sq ft
$1,125,000 : 10040 E Happy Valley Road, Unit 2009, Scottsdale

2 beds, 2.50 baths

Home size: 3,077 sq ft

Lot size: 13,777 sq ft
$319,000 : 19012 N 91st Way, Scottsdale

3 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,616 sq ft

Lot size: 5,315 sq ft
$313,500 : 8420 E San Pedro Drive, Scottsdale

3 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,997 sq ft

Lot size: 5,743 sq ft
$2,375,000 : 10418 E Palo Brea Drive, Scottsdale

4 beds, 3.50 baths

Home size: 5,100 sq ft

Lot size: 38,866 sq ft
$345,000 : 9119 E Davenport Drive, Scottsdale

5 beds, 3.00 baths

Home size: 2,628 sq ft

Lot size: 8,952 sq ft
$229,000 : 19475 N Grayhawk Drive, Unit 2086, Scottsdale

2 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,275 sq ft

Lot size: 123 sq ft
$1,325,000 : 20097 N 95th Way, Scottsdale

5 beds, 4.50 baths

Home size: 5,774 sq ft

Lot size: 29,088 sq ft
$647,500 : 7957 E Via De Luna Drive, Scottsdale

3 beds, 3.50 baths

Home size: 3,671 sq ft

Lot size: 18,000 sq ft

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Michelina’s Ristorante Phoenix, AZ~~~Yummy!

Adele Coffman — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:00:46 +0000

I am blessed…and the next blog I write will give MORE examples of that…but as a result of my blessings…my hubby and I were invited to have dinner at a local Phoenix restaurant where we have never had the pleasure of dining before. Michelina’s at 3241 E. Shea.

OMG (oh my goodness)! I can’t even describe how good the food was. I think you will be able to see the “yummieness” in these pictures.

Chicken Marsala
Marsala wine and mushrooms

Cannelloni Pasta filled with meat and spinach with alfredo sauce

Chicken Parmigiana
Marinara sauce and mozzarella Cheese

This was the SPECIAL of the day…Super Yummy Salmon

Pasta Shells Stuffed with Spinach and Ricotta
Choice of marinara or alfredo sauce

This is top grade olive oil and balsamic vinegar available for dipping the crusty bread. AGAIN…super yummy! And check out the container…so cool.

The decorating is attractive and inviting…and the service was impeccable. From “soup to nuts” as it is said (even though we had no soup or nuts)…it was great. The entire experience was fabulous.

A little surprise at the end of the meal…they served a complimentary “Michelina’s kiss” after dinner drink which completes a great experience. I am not sure what it was…but it was tasty.

I would say if you are looking for a nice place for a great dining experience…this is the place.

Check out their menu here.

As always… if you are looking for a GREAT agent to help with your real estate needs please e-mail me at Adele@GreaterPhoenixHomes.com or give me a call (or text) at 602-504-3898 or 888-897-7821 x 114. Plus, I have a GREAT search tool on my web site that gives you the ability to search the entire MLS…just like agents do. Very COOL! Go to Metro Phoenix Homes For Sale and check it out! YOU can create and save as many searches as you would like…and it is THE SAME SEARCH I DO AS AN AGENT! You will LOVE it!

THIS IS THE BEST MOST ACCURATE SEARCH OF OUR LOCAL MLS

ATTENTION AGENTS…Is your Real Estate Career or Company taking you where you want to go?
Need MORE business? Need MORE leads? What has your company done for you lately?
Ask Me Why… I joined eXp Realty.

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park – Scottsdale & Real Estate

Jim Plummer — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:02:49 +0000

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park – Scottsdale & Real Estate:

There are so many attractions all throughout the valley, but many attractions many people did not know exist. Every community has something for everybody. Without any question, Scottsdale has one of many attractions I want to share with you, and it’s located in the heart McCormick Ranch.

If you love trains, the place to go is The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. This park has many attractions for those who are passionate about railroads. One attraction features a 10,000 square foot building, which showcases the park’s four model railroad clubs.

The Model Railroad Building is a one-of-a-kind building showcasing the park’s four model railroad clubs along with surrounding railroad displays and artifacts. Plus you can take a ride around the park on the Paradise and Pacific Railroad. Tickets are very inexpensive for admission. Best of all, you and your kids can hop aboard inside one of the railroad cars for birthday parties. Plus, you can enjoy many beautiful days having lunch, dinner, or enjoy company outings in several picnic areas at the park. This park is a “must visit” for the whole family!

To learn more about the link, McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park.

McCormick Ranch Real Estate – For Sale

Contact me for showings at McCormick Ranch!

Showing properties 1 – 15 of 68. See more Mccormick Ranch community real estate.
(all data current as of 1/18/2012)

$215,000 : 8726 E San Pedro Drive, Scottsdale

2 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,949 sq ft

Lot size: 7,125 sq ft
$365,000 : 8520 N 85th Street, Scottsdale

4 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 2,073 sq ft

Lot size: 10,414 sq ft
$195,000 : 7401 N Scottsdale Road, Unit 5, Scottsdale

3 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,496 sq ft

Lot size: 2,062 sq ft
$389,000 : 8426 N 85th Street, Scottsdale

3 beds, 2.50 baths

Home size: 2,556 sq ft

Lot size: 8,407 sq ft
$630,000 : 8205 E Del Claro Drive, Scottsdale

4 beds, 3.00 baths

Home size: 3,441 sq ft

Lot size: 10,150 sq ft
$198,900 : 7240 N Via Nueva –, Scottsdale

2 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,350 sq ft

Lot size: 3,603 sq ft
$299,000 : 7348 N Via Camello Del Norte –, Unit 221, Scottsdale

3 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,342 sq ft
$155,000 : 9450 N 94th Place, Unit 120, Scottsdale

2 beds, 1.75 baths

Home size: 1,492 sq ft

Lot size: 1,419 sq ft
$132,900 : 9275 E Mission Lane, Unit 110, Scottsdale

2 beds, 1.75 baths

Home size: 978 sq ft

Lot size: 103 sq ft
$109,500 : 9460 N 92nd Street, Unit 218, Scottsdale

1 bed, 1.00 baths

Home size: 801 sq ft

Lot size: 79 sq ft
$410,000 : 7850 E San Carlos Road, Scottsdale

3 beds, 3.00 baths

Home size: 2,650 sq ft

Lot size: 5,086 sq ft
$350,000 : 8193 E Del Caverna Drive, Scottsdale

3 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 1,938 sq ft

Lot size: 3,985 sq ft
$495,000 : 8423 E Via De Jardin Street, Scottsdale

5 beds, 3.00 baths

Home size: 3,001 sq ft

Lot size: 10,962 sq ft
$196,900 : 9355 N 91st Street, Unit 224, Scottsdale

2 beds, 1.75 baths

Home size: 1,114 sq ft

Lot size: 117 sq ft
$389,000 : 7827 N Via Del Mundo Drive, Scottsdale

4 beds, 2.00 baths

Home size: 2,214 sq ft

Lot size: 8,306 sq ft

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Sweet Republic Ice Cream

Vicki Botkin — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 19:56:14 +0000

What’s not to like about Sweet Republic’s ice cream? It is ice cream after all, and ice cream is good. But Sweet Republic makes great ice cream, all natural and hand crafted. They have the basics, vanilla and chocolate, the salted butter caramel is to die for and the almond butter crunch rocks. Sure the chocolate is Belgian and the vanilla comes from Madagascar, and none of the flavors are enhanced artificially. But the main reason to go is for the unusual flavors, the ones you don’t see at your local Baskin-Robbins. Creamy and bold Jameson Whiskey, Deconstructed beer (hops infused ice cream, crunchy malt and roasted barley), sweet corn. The one flavor that must be tried, even if you don’t end up liking it, is the honey blue cheese. Originally paired as a duo with the Medjool date, the blue cheese works against all odds. What should be a pungent overpowering experience turns out to be a balanced, creamy, mellow and delicious scoop. Take a chance, try it. Can’t handle it still? Baby steps. Try one of the more traditional flavors paired with something just a little more out there, Earl Grey or the basil lime sorbet pair well with almost anything. No matter the flavor, you can’t go wrong at Sweet Republic.

Sweet Republic Artisan Ice Cream
9160 E Shea Blvd
Scottsdale, AZ 85260

Open noon-7 everyday

Click here for more info

Scottsdale Quarter

Vicki Botkin — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:45:14 +0000

Scottsdale Quarter is the best new experience in the Valley. Whether you want to shop, wine and dine, or be entertained, there is something for everyone.

Recent to join Brio Tuscan Grille at Scottsdale Quarter are Stingray Sushi, True Food Kitchen and Grimaldis Pizza, Coal Burger and the upscale Dominicks Steakhouse. Or how about stopping into Champagne and Tea. Maybe finish the evening off with a stop at Menchies Frozen Yogurt where you will find over 100 rotating flavors and over 60 rotating toppings. The Apple Store will be sure to have all your technology needs. Or how about Brookstone or H&M for shopping? For your next movie try IPic Theater where you will be treated to plush media seating and a menu of appetizers and your favorite cocktail. They even have a DJ on weekends.

Located on Scottsdale Road on the North corner of Greenway and directly across from Kierland, you should check it out. You won’t be disappointed.

Click here for more info

Drive A Porsche or Lamborghini

Vicki Botkin — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 01:16:46 +0000

Head on out to the Firebird International Raceway this Sunday, Jan 15, from 9AM to 4:30 PM and make your dream come true by jumping into the drivers seat of a Formula 2000 Race Car. You many choose to be a passenger or you may want to take a driving course and become the driver! Either way, its sure to thrill. Prices start at $75.

Click here for driving options and pricing