2008 Arizona Is Home Scholarship

It Is Time For The 2008 Arizona Is Home Scholarship.

This year, I am doing something new for the “Arizona Is My Home” Scholarship. The winner will be the first student to be awarded a scholarship by participating in a Web 2.0 scholarship program. Applicants for the “Arizona Is My Home” will develop a Blog thread with his/her Arizona hometown being the central theme. This year’s recipient will be my fourth $2500 scholarship awarded.

Web 2.0 is a concept that has many meanings on the web. My interpretation of Web 2.0 is that web visitors have an opportunity to interact with those that write the content. So my focus this year is on using Blog’s to share ideas.

For the 2008-2009 “Arizona Is My Home” scholarship, students will create Blog entries. Then, visitors to the site will comment on the student’s thoughts. Each student participating will have an opportunity to develop his/her idea fully and establish a community of readers.

My goal is to help provide students a forum to learn and understand how to use the web to create and promote their own ideas. I also want readers to discover why Arizona is such a great place to call home.

There is still two additional changes to this year’s scholarship. This year’s scholarship Participants will have two choices for the writing prompt. One option is to create a piece that promotes his/her Arizona hometown and encourages others to consider making it their home also. The second choice is to write on the experience of losing a home. This second option was chosen to link faces to a tragedy that is destroying families and communities across Arizona.

The second change is that the scholarship is open for use at any accredited school in Arizona. This should help those that have chosen to attend proprietary schools like The University of Phoenix or the Arizona Culinary Institute.

The directions on how you can become a participant are below. Please be sure to read them carefully. If you have questions, you are always welcome to write me at chapman@westusa.com for additional help.

The “Arizona Is My Home” Rules and Regulations

1. The “Arizona Is My Home” Scholarship Writing Prompt (Two Options Available)

The first option is for individuals who already live in an Arizona town or city. The focus of the prompt is to develop an essay with his/her Arizona hometown being the focus. Students are encouraged to create a piece that promotes his/her Arizona hometown and encourages others to consider making it their home also.

The second option is in response to the increased number of families who have lost their home or may lose a home in the near future. Students will either Blog about what home means by explaining the loss of a home or the experience of moving into a home after not having a home of their own.

2. Initial foundation Blog posts should be long enough to establish premises that will enable readers to understand and comment.

3. Participants must add to their concept, reflect and respond to the comments of readers.

4. Blog entries must be written in English.

5. Language and concepts must be appropriate for a General or G Rated audience. Violation of this rule will result in immediate termination of the participant’s account.

6. All work submitted must be original, authored solely and completely by the applicant.

7. Each Blog thread will be judged based on the number of comments received, the structure of the concepts developed and the number of other Blog’s or websites that mention or comment on the participant’s concept or idea.

8. Each participant shall establish an account on the Arizonan.com. Then, follow these simple steps to become a participant in the “Arizona Is Home Scholarship” program.

Step 1: Go to http://www.arizonan.com/wp-login.php?action=register or by click on the login link at the bottom of the site. Enter a user name and email address. Remember that both the user name and password will be case sensitive.

Step 2: Go to your email account and complete the registration process.

Step 3: To http://www.arizonan.com/wp-admin/profile.php or click log in link at the bottom of the http://www.arizonan.com website. Then, click on the profile link in the upper right hand side of the page. The first link is much easier.

Step 4: Complete the profile information. For website, place your current school’s website or the website of the school you will be attending. Pay close attention to the biography portion of the profile. This will one of the elements reviewed in determining the winner.

 

Step 5: Blog your idea and develop a following. Blog about your ideas on other Blog’s and encourage others to visit your Blog on the Arizonan.com. Respond to comments and add to your concept on a regular basis.

The focus of this scholarship is to encourage students to learn how to use the power of the web to share their own ideas and motivate others. The “Arizona Is My Home” Scholarship was designed to be the first of its kind - Web 2.0 Scholarship.

9. Winners will be notified by phone and/or mail. Complete results will be posted at www.Arizonan.com. All submissions become the sole property of Carl Chapman and may be republished in whole or in part. Carl Chapman reserves the right not to award a prize or any prizes when submissions do not meet contest standards or criteria.

10. Scholarship monies become available to successful applicants who are full-time matriculated students. Participants must have completed 12 credit hours at the students Arizona school, college or university from which they seek to graduate

The “Arizona Is My Home” Scholarship may be applied for and awarded to a student prior to completing this above stated requirement. However, funds will be held until the final requirement is met.

11. The scholarship monies will be paid to the student’s college or university, after Carl Chapman receives notification from the college or university of the student’s qualifying standing. Payments will only be issued to Arizona colleges or universities. New this year, students of private and for profit schools are eligible to participate.

12. All requirements of the scholarship must be met within 12 months of the awards. Failure to meet these requirements will result in loss of the award.

13. Unused scholarship funds will be held for future scholarship programs.

14. The “Arizona Is My Home” Scholarship can be applied for and awarded to a student prior to completing required conditions, by students who have been accepted to a Arizona college or university and by students who are currently enrolled and attending an Arizona college or university.

15. “Arizona Is My Home” Scholarship Timetable:

May 22, 2009 - The scholarship winner will be notified.

16. Employees of Carl Chapman and their family members are not eligible to participate.

17. Carl Chapman shall be the sole judge of all entries and his decision shall be final.

All Participants agree to abide by the rules of the “Arizona Is My Home” Scholarship program. Participants attest that all of the information provided is true and complete and may be verified through any means necessary.

18. By participating in the “Arizona Is My Home” Scholarship, certify that all submissions and writings are original, authored solely by the participant, and are not plagiarized or otherwise infringed upon the rights of any third party. Participants authorize Carl Chapman to confirm any details in this application by contacting the appropriate person(s).

19. Acceptance of the scholarship constitutes permission to use the winner’s names and/or likenesses for advertising, trade, and publicity purposes without further compensation. Carl Chapman also reserves all rights, including the right to edit, publish, use, adapt or modify any entry, including any personal information about the scholarship recipient and/or applicant quote, picture, essay, school name or year in school, without further consideration or payment to the scholarship recipient and/or applicant. Participants grant permission to share this information for the purpose of news media releases and/or commerce and/or assignee’s.

Writings may be published in whole or in part by Carl Chapman or by other parties associated, with Carl Chapman’s written permission. Carl Chapman reserves the right not to publish any essay it deems inappropriate for any reason. Carl Chapman reserves the right not to award a prize or any prizes when submissions do not meet contest standards or criteria.

20. Release of Information for Scholarships:

By submitting content and participating in the Arizona Is Home Scholarship program, Participants authorize the School, College or University to deposit any co-payable checks without my endorsement in order to expedite my scholarship award. Furthermore, participants authorize the release of academic and financial information to scholarship donors.

From Mexico

     Arizona has been always my home once I stepped on from Mexico. I knew it was my home from the moment I moved here. I never forget my first moment when I got into Arizona, and I looked around; then I saw many cacti and the desert and I said, “Wow…that is so great…lots of cacti…wow it is hot outside today.” I got used to that hot. I was very excited to be here. It endures me. It inspires me to learn many things that I have not learned from Mexico, I really enjoy learning many things from nature. I love living in Arizona.

 

     I believed that my heart belongs to Arizona. I cannot leave Arizona although it is my home. I know that I am in the right place to live in.

 

    Arizona is very beautiful to live in. Arizona has many things that natural beauty to explore. Arizona is a great state to live in. I assure you that it is the best one! I have been living here since I was a five years old. It took that long to know that I love Arizona.

 

     In addition, Arizona has many good schools for us, the students, who need that. You will find something that may fit you well, down in Arizona. It has everything that you can think of. You will have something good come of it, for its community.

I haven’t always felt so fond of Arizona

     I can sympathize with the sentiment that a lover feels when distant from the object of its affection, which is seemingly very similar to what I feel when I am distant from Arizona. Whenever heading toward my home state I get nervous, fix my hair and make-up, and make my thoughts calm and ready for anything. Not for anyone that I will see upon my arrival, mind you, but simply ready to be home.

 

     I haven’t always felt so fond of Arizona. In fact, I used to wish for small towns near the woods surrounded by fresh springs, with the help of hindsight I can see it was probably the television trying to program me. My sentiments changes almost without my knowing, at age twenty, I realized that I only desired those things because of the idea of actually having what I desired didn’t yet exist in my newly formed spirit. Just to make sure that I wasn’t being unfairly biased to my newly beloved Arizona, I traveled for five months around the states to visit all the other large scale, and some small-scale, metropolis’. I returned to Arizona with a newfound appreciation for the open desert and new but untested idea of truly is community.

 

     I grew up in Mesa amongst a sea of students, unknown, and I thought at that time that my world would just keep getting bigger and I would continue to be become less known. However, it didn’t, I now live on the same street as my three best friends, the same corner as my brother and on the same block as three of my four ex-boyfriends. My community started to become smaller not larger and it didn’t just get smaller in my social life, but my professional life as well. For five years, it was my pleasure to make the valley into a small community. I worked as a community event organizer and promotions director for a large, community-minded, business in Tempe (Whole Foods Market). Either I helped plan, initiate, donate or participate in every event in Tempe and many throughout the entire valley. I watched as not only the community came together for neighborhood-watch parties and muscular-dystrophy runs, but I also was able to be a part of those neighborhoods. This experience of watching the communities in Arizona grow and move and respond was a great experience for anyone (to know that they are apart of something really helps define meaning to ones life) and that something that I was apart of just happened to be Arizona. I had the opportunity to be interviewed on television by every local channel and could tell you a funny quirk about almost any new anchor. Arizona changed from my community to my family.

 

     As appreciation for Arizona extends into appreciation for some geographical locations around the valley. My mother owns the quilt shop in downtown Gilbert that I work at when time allows, and I have never been lost in the valley because I can always tell where I am located just based on the shapes and sizes of the mountain ranges around the valley. I know that South Mountain is the largest mountain biking park in the states, and that if you hike Camelback Peak you might get the opportunity to hear or see (or feel!) the bees that have the flight path right through a notch in the mountain. I can bore anyone under sixty about the origin of the valley being founded as a location for tuberculosis rehabilitation. I have made it a point to see all the natural and historical sights in every corner of the state from Fort Bowie, to Lake Mead, to the Petrified Forest. At times I feel like Arizona has also given glimpses at what it will feel like to be a grandparent, driving around the valley with anyone who would dare, pointing and exclaiming, “I remember when that was just a huge orange grove!”

 

     My ability to adapt with an absurd delight to the summertime in Arizona makes it obvious that I am very comfortable and happy to be in Arizona. The hotter the better, and in the winter months to remind myself of what is to come I attend hot yoga in a room about 110 degrees Fahrenheit.

 

     A lasting memory that pays homage to the community-mindedness of downtown Tempe is its now nationally famous ‘free-pile’ program. I needed to get rid of everything I owned but I didn’t have to put anything in the trash due to the success of this community made program. It might sound like I was littering the streets, but I assure you that everything I put on the street was gone, taken to a new home within four hours. Therefore, the last night, I moved my bed out to the sidewalk and since it was such a nice Arizona night, decided to sleep outside, and was woken up by one of the bicyclists going by wishing me tidings. My night outdoors is a perfect illustration of the home that I have in Arizona and I hope this essay shows the home that Arizona has in me.

Arizona is my hometown

     Arizona is a wonderful place to live. There are a long list of fun activities that you can do. There are many job opportunities, and education is relevant.

 

     First, in Arizona we have many activities that we can do to enjoy ourselves. For example, we have several clubs where you can go and play any sport you like. We also have an abundance of parks where you can go and have fun with all your family and friends. There are several malls and big stores where you can go and buy anything you want. We have nightclubs where we go to dance on the weekends, and a whole bunch of activities that would help you relax and enjoy every second of your spare time.

 

     Second, there is a proliferation of job opportunities around the state. Therefore, if you don’t have a job in Arizona, it is just because you are being lazy and haven’t looked for one. I myself have a wonderful job, and I really enjoy it. You can find a job just around the corner. Sometimes you don’t even have to look for a job, because the job is going to look for you. So if you are unemployed right now, or you know someone who doesn’t have a job, just come to our wonderful state of Arizona.

 

     Third, Arizona is the best place for education. Education in Arizona is cheaper than any other state, and the quality is the same. We have teachers from all over the world, so besides teaching us, they are also bringing a lot of diversity to our state. Moreover, all this diversity is what makes our state very strong. Education is the main factor for Arizona to be successful. This is why Arizona makes it easy for anyone to have a good education. So if you want to be successful in life, you should think of educating yourself in Arizona.

 

     Arizona is my hometown, and I invite you to do all the activities we do. You would never be unemployed again, and you and your family would have a good education. Don’t miss this opportunity. Arizona is my hometown and can be yours as well.

 

My favorite section in Arizona is the Grand Canyon

     Arizona has and always will have an enormous impact on my life. Provided I have lived here all twenty years of my life, I am quite fond of our state. I am currently enrolled at Glendale Community College wrapping up my two-year general studies Associate Degree. Then, I will be moving on to ASU West where I will immediately begin working on my major in Communications.

 

     I currently work at Greenleaf Wholesale Florist where I have been delivering flowers now for more than a year and a half. The first ten months I took a route that went to Globe, Safford, then Clifton and Morenci, and down to Willcox and then home. Wow, is that an interesting drive. Especially, in Clifton and Morenci! In Clifton, you can see the old, giant door they used to shut at night to seal the town (I had asked one of the women who owned the local flower shop I was delivering to).

 

     I also know the town sheriff in Morenci (which is literally right on top of Clifton about a few hundred feet up) because he is the husband of Barb at Busy Bee’s. I had never seen this side of Arizona before. I knew we had mining towns but I didn’t think that they would be that fun to visit.

 

     After taking that route, I began taking what they call the “tourist route” which is straight up north. Prescott, Chino Valley, Cottonwood, and Sedona. A much more scenic route I must say. It is cool, because my Grandpa is buried there and my dad grew up there. My first day on the route, I got to see his burial site, as well as my dad’s old house. It was an incredible experience. Chino Valley is an interestingly windy town. Every time I go, it is windy and I can’t quite figure it out yet? Then onto Cottonwood, in which you go through one of the coolest towns in America, Jerome. A ghost town. Well, more touristy now but a really cool place. One day I got to talk with a native and hear the entire history of the town and it was quite weird. On your way to Sedona, you can see the rich, red mountains. The scary part is watching people take pictures while driving even when there is a passenger!

 

     My favorite section in Arizona is the Grand Canyon. Some say it is just a big hole in the ground but I have to disagree. I, personally find it fascinating and especially beautiful in the winter. When the entire canyon is lightly covered in snow, it is impossible to not want to see. A landmark everyone person should have the opportunity to see.

 

     Over the years, Arizona has become a very special place. Not only because I grew up here, played sports here, and made lasting friendships here, but because of the sights I have seen while on the job. I didn’t think I would like driving all over the state three days a week, but the things I have experienced while I’m out have made me look forward to work everyday. The views never get old and I find myself never getting tired of seeing the same old thing.

Arizona became my home when I arrived to it from Nashville, TN July of 2005

     Arizona became my home when I arrived to it from Nashville, TN July of 2005. When I moved to the United States in 1999 with my parents from United Arab Emirates, my parents brought me and my sister here for a goal and a path that will lead us to the open doors of our future, which is education. The United States, in any third world country you go to, is known for its education and how you can achieve in anything you put your mind into. I always had plans after I graduate from high school to go to college and knowing what I want to be when I grow up; some days I say I want to be a doctor and sometimes just because I love science, I always say I want to be a nuclear scientist.

 

     When me and my family moved to Arizona, well, my parents at first were speechless, they said, what a very clean state and how beautiful it is. It also reminded them of United Arab Emirates, where I was born and lived for eleven years. It was a big change, but at the same time, the bigger the better. Well July passed and August came, the school time has come, it was my junior year, but at the time, I was not happy because I was still missing my best friends in Nashville, TN. My first day of school at Mountain Pointe High School arrived; I was nervous but excited at the same time. People here in Arizona, well I can say students here, are very different and very friendly, that really made me open my eyes and see what Arizona is like.

 

     My junior year at Mountain Pointe was near over and I got some news from my family about moving to a house, I already knew my family was building one but I didn’t know when it would be done. I finished my junior year on May 24th of 2006 and I was so happy because the summer is here and I’m going to have a lot of fun. Well I thought that way, but I thought wrong, I had to help the family with the moving furniture to the new house and just helping them get everything to the new house. When I got to our new house the first thing I said was, Arizona you took care of me and my family and helped my family to build there American dream house in your land and I really want to thank you.

 

     I was wondering most of the time which high school am I going to attend? Then my parents said you would be going to Cesar Chavez High School. I started saying to myself, what about Mountain Pointe? I already made friends over there and my teachers love me, but then my parents said I could not go there because it’s out of the school zone and Cesar Chavez is the closest high school here. My first thought in mind was senior year, the most fun and sad year at the same time of my life. When I was registered at Cesar Chavez, I said, here I come class of 2007. The first day of school, when I placed my foot in front of the doors, I had a big relief not a sad relief but a very exciting happy one. Well, now I’m sitting here looking for a scholarship for college that will help me pursue my goal in life. A scholarship that will get me to the college I always wanted to go to, Arizona State University. Arizona played a big role in my life, it helped me finish my education here and it welcomed my family and me. I’m proud to say that I’m going to be a graduate from an Arizona high school. I hope that one day I can give back to the state of Arizona with student scholarships that need it, and for those who deserve it and can reach the key to success.

 

 

 

Arizona is my home, and it always will be

     Arizona is, and has been, an important place in my life. I was born and raised in Glendale, Arizona. I have grown to love the community in which I live in and the unique wonders that Arizona has to offer.

 

     I am attached to the weather, and I believe it contributes so much to how Arizona is shaped. During the winter, it gives us so many opportunities to be in the outdoors. From October until May, I enjoy hiking up the small mountains in and around Phoenix. In addition, I take two to three trips a year to Flagstaff to ski and to enjoy the snow. I enjoy seeing the diverse group of wildlife, which includes animals ranging from elk and deer all the way to coyotes and javelina. Winter in Arizona has no limits. Phoenix has the specific weather conditions to incorporate outdoor activities, and Flagstaff is available for the winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding. At the age of three, I learned to ski at the Snow Bowl resort in Flagstaff. Since then, I have continued to ski and snowboard at the two ski resorts in Arizona.

 

     It amazes me that in a desert state I am able to experience such climates that are only two hours away from each other. Although summers in Arizona can be extremely hot, it is my favorite season of the year. Summer welcomes the water sports. At the age of three, I also learned how to water ski. Each summer, my family and I take a thirty-minute drive to Lake Pleasant once a week to water ski. It is an incredible lake, and I appreciate that Arizona has such sundry geographical features.

 

     On a cultural level, it is nice to know that Arizona has evolved into a state with so many different ethnic backgrounds. Two hundred years ago, mainly American Indians populated Arizona. Now, there is a large melting pot of people including Hispanics, Asians, African Americans, and Caucasians. I plan to attend Arizona State University, and I am looking forward to seeing just how culturally diverse this state has become. I am expecting to see professors from all over the world and students of many nationalities. I believe that all the changes that have occurred have made Arizona one of the most interesting places in the country. Arizona is my home, and it always will be.

The state of Arizona began on February 14, 1942

I have lived in Arizona my entire life. Growing up here had many advantages on my life, which I grew to appreciate. The cultural diversity is very different and many people come to live here over anywhere for many reasons. The desert climate is beautiful all year around with little humidity. You can even travel a few hours out of town to go skiing in the snow. There are many sites to see and experience as well as adventures to enjoy. With many colleges, universities, and private schools to choose from, one can get a sense of knowing that their future career lies in any of our educational schools nearby.

 

The state of Arizona began on February 14, 1942. We became the 48th state in the union. With the influx of people to enjoy our beautiful weather, the Phoenix metro area gradually became one of the largest cities in the United States. With this, the real estate market is growing at a rapid pace. The housing market is advancing and this makes Arizona a great place to invest and make some money.

 

The Native American culture has a big influence on our cultural diversity, as it is the start of our history. Everyone is moving here from different states as well as countries. I have gained knowledge in many other areas, so I feel that I have traveled and didn’t have to go very far. The weather is mild and we have very little humidity. Traveling two hours in any direction north will lead you into snow in the winter months. This is convenient because of the option you have to choose snow or not. Most states have snow that you cannot avoid. The snowbirds come to enjoy our winter months from all around the United States.

 

The land here in Arizona is the most beautifully landscaped environment. I love to hike, so mountains are my adventure. There are so many in all directions to choose from with different intensities. I enjoy a great hike because of the exercise I benefit from. The Grand Canyon is the largest mountain to hike and is a huge tourist attraction. The sunrise and sunsets are most exquisite and this makes a great romantic place for couples.

 

With 355 days of sunshine, golfing has become very popular here in Arizona. We also have world-class golf resorts and many five star hotels. White water rafting and the Salt River are enjoyable ways to get some sun and socialize with friends.

 

The education foundation is excellent here. There are many degrees to choose from and many different educational schools to compare. I had many choices to choose which one is best to become a pilot. Technical schools are profound here. My father has attended many and has become successful in his area of employment by being a hardware technician. He installs computers and hardware and networks them. My stepmother currently works at a hospital as a Clinical Account Manager and teaches physicians how to use software for their electronic medical records. She started her education by attending nursing school as an LPN, worked hard for her associate’s degree then accomplished a Bachelor in Science for nursing. With many programs here in Arizona, education is the most important aspect in all lives as it open doors for a successful future.

 

Living here in Arizona has taught me the enjoyment of a good adventure. Whether it may be hiking, golfing, or just watching the sunset, one can never get bored. I believe that education is the key for a successful future and there are many to choose from here. This gives you a sense of peace knowing that every positive step you take leads you into a great future.

Arizona has amazing landmarks as well as very rich, deep, and colorful roots

     Arizona will always be my true home. While growing up, I always wanted to know what it would be like to live in another state. I never really appreciated Arizona until a couple of years ago when I found there is no other state even close to Arizona. Looking back on my life, everything I know is associated with Arizona. I realized I could never feel more safe, secure, and proud in any other place but Arizona. It has such a great mixture of fun and history. I hope that the memories instilled in me will drive other people to experience what I have.

 

     There are many fun places to go. I live in Tucson, which has become such a great urban city. There are places to see movies (Park Place Mall), eat food (El Charro), go shopping (La Encantada), visit zoos (Reid Park), and hang out with friends. Tucson by far has the best Mexican food in the world. I know of someone who moved to Arizona from Mexico and says the Mexican food here is better. Beyond Tucson, though, Phoenix has even more to do. There are shopping malls, over twenty different art exhibits and museums, a great nightlife, and various park attractions. Phoenix is Arizona’s engine and is a huge business center. The city life is so diverse and offers many different options to suit any type of person. There also are the Universities of Arizona and Arizona State, which draw in teens from all over the country and world. The economic and city life in Arizona sounds great, but there is something else more beautiful, unique, and wondrous about Arizona many never appreciate.

 

     Arizona has amazing landmarks as well as very rich, deep, and colorful roots. Every time I am driving, I always have a gorgeous view of the mountains. I have had many people visiting from out of town tell me how amazing it is that Arizonans see these breathtaking views everyday. It was at these moments I would stop and look at the mountains and know how lucky I am. I can easily drive to the base of Mount Lemmon, take a scenic hike, and completely forget I live in the city. No one in New York City could do that.

 

     We are also home to the great Grand Canyon. It is a national landmark and has many legendary tall tales associated with it. It is wonderful to think that I can drive four hours and be able to visit the canyon everyone talks about and comes to see from all over the world. Another really cool natural landmark is Colossal Cave. Once inside, you can see stalagmites that have been growing for millions of years. It is nice and cold inside, which is great since it is so hot outside. You can also see the occasional bat. I also remember the bottomless pit, which is deep inside the cave. Everyone that I have spoken has said they’ve dropped a penny in it and never heard a sound come back.

 

     Places such as the Desert Museum, the Wildlife Museum, Old Tucson, San Xavier, and many exhibits of old Indian inhabitants really shape what Arizona is about. These are great places to learn and experience the beginnings of this wonderful state. I remember as a kid being so excited to take a picture of the huge polar bear in the Wildlife Museum. All the animals on display were once real and the experience is very hands on. It always felt like I would go back in time, when the animal was living. The Desert Museum, on the other hand, has animals that are actually alive. I love seeing the prairie dogs and snakes. There are also blocks of information along walls and rocks on the animals’ exhibits. At Old Tucson, I loved to play bandits and robbers at the “Wild West” stomping grounds. The Indian exhibits all around.

 

      Many people think Arizona is nothing but tumbleweeds, cowboys, and dirt. However, if those people were to come and visit, their view would definitely change. If a tourist wanted to find an urban city, Arizona has it. If a tourist wanted to visit a place of life, history, and beautiful nature, Arizona has it. To think that once there was a completely different culture roaming Arizona is just amazing. It has developed into such an amazing state. It is a getaway and economic staple all into one. If I were to make a description of Arizona, I could do it so that any type of person would be drawn to the fervid life of Arizona.

Arizona is the center of attraction for visitors during the winter season

     I started my expedition by asking my father a very simple question. What is a home? It took him several minutes to answer. He said, “A home is an environment that provides security and happiness where families reside together.”

 

     Every one knows Arizona or at least we have heard about it. However, today I am sitting face-to-face on a tatami mat with a different Arizona, which few people see or hear all over the world. People come to Arizona all the time from within United States and abroad. They come from California and Canada. They swim from Mexico and even Wake Island. They fly from Africa and Asia. Each person comes with a unique history.

 

     Arizona is American’s city of people, plants, water, and fantasy. Arizona is divided into fifteen counties; Coconino, Mohave, Pima, Yavapai, Maricopa, Apache, Navajo, Cochise, Yuma, Graham, Pinal, Gila, La Paz, Greenlee, and Santa Cruz. Each county has a unique features and history.

 

     The old, long, meandering, deep and broad Colorado River has made it possible for Arizona to be the American’s fastest-growing, driest state; the perfect perceptible indication of the notion that water and gas will never run out. Arizona is the desert of ostentation, cars and water especially during winter and summer.

 

     As early as 300 BC (approximate), life already existed in Arizona. The Native Americans (Hohokam) engaged in farming in the valley by constructing the irrigation ditches, which enabled them to get abundant water from the Salt and the Gila River. For the desert to support more lives, dams have been built on the western rivers for reclamation purposes. One of the dams is Theodore Roosevelt, which was built in 1902 and has expanded the water supply for the growing population. Every house in Arizona has an ample supply of fresh, treated and clean water.

 

     Arizona is the home of a variety of unique animals, birds, plants, and minerals. The saguaro is a large, tree-sized cactus with night blooming flowers. Saguaros grow slowly taking up to approximately 90 years to grow and they are slow at multiplication. In fact, most vehicles’ license plates in Arizona display a saguaro cactus. The saguaro is an endangered species. Damaging saguaro cactus in any way is against the law in Arizona.

 

     In pursuit of an impressive desert plants display, I recently chose to stay in Tucson. Which was most impressive? The Saguaro of course. In the saguaro plants - can you imagine? Gila woodpeckers and the gilded flickers were creating holes for nests in the giants of the desert, which has encouraged other birds such as the Elf Owl to invade the saguaro. Surprisingly, Saguaro is used for the construction of the house roofs at Tohono O’odham land near Tucson Arizona. Saguaro cactus has made Arizona a unique state worldwide.

 

     During summers, when I was driving my three-ton car along U.S Route 60, east of Phoenix, to one of the recreation destinations for the residents of Arizona, I saw the legendary Superstition Mountains. As I was approached the Superstitions, I encountered many visitors who were ready for hiking. One could easily tell that they were visitors from abroad by the look of their dress and their accent. A vast network of hiking trails makes it easier for hikers to access the Superstition Mountains from multiple access points. The altitude in the western portion of the Superstitions is lower than eastern portion and the variation of the altitude lowers slightly the temperatures making it favorable for hiking during summer. In addition, hikers find it more comfortable because of the Monsoon’s moisture which makes Arizona a little bit humid in August. The magnificent McDowell Mountains to the northwest and the White Tank Mountains to the west of Phoenix attract a large number of visitors and residents.

 

     As a youth, I liked skiing during winter weekends and Mount Sierra Estrella, which is to the southwest of Phoenix; it was my favorite playground. In the winter, Mount Sierra Estrella boasts a cloak of glistening white snow and the temperatures in the neighboring area is conducive to farming. For those people who like farming, Mount Sierra Estrella is your best destination.

 

     I deliberately chose a different route and drove my dark-turquoise Honda back to my cocoon. I saw the South Mountain Park, which I came to learn later from my neighbor, is the largest metropolitan park in the world and can accommodate approximately 4 million visitors each year.

 

    Snow in the Arizona desert is a rare phenomenon; mild, sunny weather encourages “snow birds” (winter visitors) to migrate from the cold regions of the northern parts of the U.S. to enjoy the indoor entertainment and outdoor activities. In addition, during the monsoon season, from July to mid September, humid air, and strong winds, blow in from the Gulf of California; thunderstorms are more vigorous dumping a copious rain on the parched desert. Residents are grateful to the weather forecasters who have remained always faithful, posting warnings to residents of impending severe weather when there is a need to take precautions.

 

     Arizona is the center of attraction for visitors during the winter season. The warm climate encourages visitors from within the U.S and other parts of the world who come for both business and recreation. As a result, the local government has benefited from tourists’ taxes. In addition, tourists are a source of income for enterprises that sell goods and services to these travelers. The local government has utilized the travelers’ tax well by constructing an extensive network of smooth, wide roads, efficient public transport, an advanced aviation system, and rail transport.

 

     On January 16, 2006, (Martin Luther king holiday), I drove north to see the Colorado River as it passes through the Grand Canyon. At the gate, I gladly paid the entrance fee to see this natural wonder. The Grand Canyon’s magnificent waterfalls form a secluded and unexpected rain forest. The Grand Canyon is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. I glided along the roads of the Grand Canyon with windows wide open and smelled the pungent perfume from the desert vegetation. I saw those who were lucky to have their lovers and friends, happy throughout the day. Every street was filled with polite notices and beautiful heart symbols. Couples walked in pairs down the paths holding hands and pulling along their little offspring, watching carefully for dangerous animals - bears! I realized how double dealers, “love stealers,” could easily be found at the Grand Canyon because it is the best place for lovers to experience how marvelous nature can heal broken or pending relationships through the gorgeous Grand Canyon. The splendor of the Grand Canyon’s array of unique colors as day fades into night is breathtaking.

 

Arizona even contains the Dinosaurs National Monument on the border between Utah and Colorado, which contains the complete skeletons and eggs of prehistoric dinosaurs. In addition, tourists wait in line for the chance to explore Yellowstone National Park to see over 300 geysers propelled into the air by subterranean gases. The park also has hundreds of different types of animals including elks, buffaloes, and bears.

 

As the saying goes, “Education is the key to success.” Various institutions have been set to aide education in Arizona. Arizona has elementary schools, high schools, colleges, and public and private universities. The presence of the colleges has always enlivened the “Valley of the Sun” with a cultural and intellectual stimulation. Arizona State University (ASU), which was founded in the year 1885, has made the “Valley of the Sun” proud. ASU has developed a number of nationally recognized programs in the fields of art and sciences. ASU is a home of both local and international students who represent many countries with the aim of nurturing the inextinguishable desire to educate oneself by tackling the enigmas of mathematics, chemistry, engineering and other course descriptions that I have not listed. ASU has added beauty to Arizona by hosting students with cultural diversity who participate in various athletics, and extracurricular activities. As a result, many companies, including computer companies in Chandler, have relocated their businesses to Arizona in order to make use of this pompous resource of graduates from ASU.

 

When considering a move to Arizona, a new comer will want to consider the economy and cost of housing. Now it may make sense to train management analyst, advertising sales agent, and financial analyst, but to the average person like me, it may as well be written in Yoruba number system. The median home price in Arizona is relatively cheap, approximately $167,900 per unit as compared to that of Minneapolis which is  $298,900 per unit. The cost-of-living index in Arizona is approximately $60 as compared to the U.S. average of $100. The rate of unemployment average is approximately 1.5% as compared to the U.S. average of approximately 5%, and the future job growth is expected to be approximately 32% as compared to U.S. average of 9%.

 

Arizona is a home of more than approximately 2 million illegal immigrants. The increase in population growth has made Arizona a better place for married families and single folks to enjoy the nightlife in great bars, casinos, and motels. Living is affordable; the local economy is growing strong with plenty of opportunities for jobs and career advancement, making Arizona a more attractive place to live. The quality of life has increased from good to great in Arizona. The crime and divorce rate are lower due to the reinforcement of Protestant, Catholic, Jewish, Muslim, and Mormon churches. Gay, Lesbians, Malaysians, and Buddhists are partially off the map in Arizona.

 

Arizona is popular with PhDs, musicians, artist, casinos, and retirees and young people who like abundant recreational activities. The residents and visitors have much to learn from Arizona, so when you have time on weekends drive around, relax, and get the real rhythm of Arizona. As the saying goes, “There’s no place like home.” At the end of the day, I drive in the twilight, a happy person, to Mesa, Arizona to be reunited with my beloved parents and my siblings and rest from a long drive exploring the wonders of Arizona. Mesa is a flat piece of land, extensive, with strip malls, radar cameras, and a main street dotted with unique sculptures; a community where at night vehicles are tucked safely behind garage doors which go up and down and villainy before dawn is newsworthy.

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