Sierra Vista - Tombstone Arizona

Spirits of Arizona

noreply@blogger.com (Carl Chapman) — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 21:07:00 +0000

Being born in Germany and living there until I was six did not prepare me for the life that awaited me in Arizona. All I knew about the world around me was that it was green in the spring and summer, brown in the autumn, and white in the winter. I remember the day I was told we were moving to Arizona quite clearly. I was informed that I was going to move to the desert. This part instantly filled me with images of sand dunes, cacti and camels in addition to a healthy dose of dread.

So at the tender age of six I embarked with my family on a journey which would take me to my new home, whether I liked it or not. On arrival to Fort Huachuca, a brown landscape dotted with mountains greeted me. At the time, I did not care too much as long as I had a steady supply of toys and neighborhood pals. Fortunately, for me, we moved into a new neighborhood in town that had many children my age. After 2 years however, I was informed we were moving again, but this time it was not in town, but out in the countryside.

Initially this did not pose any complication in my life as I soon met new friends in the sparsely populated area. As I aged however, the rural nature of my home began to wear on me. Outside of school, my friends and I could rarely visit each other because of the long distance between our homes. There were, and still are, no parks or other places were we could meet. All that greeted me when I opened the front door was ten acres and a vast view of the mountains.

At the time, I did not value ten acres and a vast view. As many young people would observe, I found it to be boring. The truly gorgeous blue sky and the visual orchestra of an Arizona sunset in the shadow of the mountains was something I did not have time for. Yet unconsciously, the environment became an important part of my daily life.

Whenever I looked out of my window, tall green mountains wrapping my town's southwestern side greeted me. Now when I think about, it is as those mountains were a mother nurturing the town by cradling it and being ever watchful. Those same mountains produce a fantastic winter coat of white that contrasts with the desert below. Wonders such as these were things I continually took for granted.

Rural Arizona throughout my teenage years was definitely not my idea of fun. The largest town was located 10 miles away, and it only had around 40,000 people. Events tended to go around Sierra Vista leaving my life seemingly boring. As a teenager, I tended to ignore the natural beauty that surrounded me. Mountains could be seen on all sides and as far as the eye could see. The perpetual blue sky created the stuff of paintings when contrasted against the brown earth and the green mountains.

Unfortunately, I was too preoccupied to be concerned with matters of nature. My naïve idealism valued ever-grander things, and ignored the potential that a small town has. Reports of other teenagers living in large cities complaining that they had nothing to do did not faze me, as I told myself that they only feel that way because they had never lived in such a rural area. As I got older however, I began to realize that regardless of where we live, we create routines for ourselves because of what is available. The emptiness of the land here however, still created a longing for something different. This something different was namely, a different place with more life, with more culture, with more history.

Little did I acknowledge that Cochise County is brimming with history. People have inhabited this place for thousands of years, and all of them have left their mark on the land. At the time, I could not tangibly see the history the area passed down on its inhabitants. To me Tombstone was just another tourist trap, built entirely on a few minutes of history. Bisbee was just another former mining town with nothing unique to offer except a large gaping hole in the ground. As time passed however, I slowly began to appreciate the heritage of the area.

This occurred in small steps, and was by no means a sudden realization. The contributions of Chinese workers in the development of Tombstone are fascinating and little acknowledged, and the deportation of Eastern European workers in Bisbee is tragic and well documented. Upon first inspection, one could never glean this information, as it seems these people have not left their impact. It then becomes apparent that there is an incredible and intangible quality about Cochise County: that perhaps the previous inhabitants felt that it too was open and rural, but without realizing it, they contributed a wealth of culture to the place they inhabited. I think that is the legacy imparted to each generation that lives here.

There is a spirit in Arizona that lives in the wide-open spaces from mountain to mountain. It lingers on in the spirit of those that dwelled here centuries before. It is what allows us to live in a place that few would think they would want to call home. It makes all kindred spirits who call Arizona home.

Hang My Hat

noreply@blogger.com (Carl Chapman) — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 21:05:00 +0000

I hang my hat in Sierra Vista, Arizona. I have lived here in southern Arizona for the majority of my twenty-six years of life. I grew up on a ranch about eleven miles outside of Douglas, Arizona. In eighth grade, I had the opportunity to attend a two-room school where I was the only eight grader. The eighth grade graduation at Apache was all about me, what an experience! With that in mind, one can imagine the culture shock I faced when I moved to Sierra Vista to attend high school; I went from being the only eighth grader to being one of about two thousand students. I am glad to say I survived and enjoyed every bit of it.

Sierra Vista has grown a great amount since I moved here in 1992 therefore a lot has changed. We actually have a mall, though small, it is still a mall. The Mall at Sierra Vista is an enclosed mall with a total of 400,000-square-feet of retail space. The mall includes Dillard’s and Sears, a 10-screen, state-of-the-art Cinemark Movie Theater, a food court and about 50 other stores. The Mall at Sierra Vista is the first major mall to be built in southeastern Arizona outside the Tucson metropolitan area. Next to the mall, we have an Applebee's, Home Depot and the Marriott Hotel. Along with these businesses, construction of more hotels, a Lowe's, and IHOP are currently in progress. Job opportunities continue to arise, not only with these new businesses, but also in the construction business as well.

Sierra Vista also provides nearly every adult with the opportunity to further their education with colleges and universities that offer on-site classes as well as online courses. Just to name a few, we have a Cochise Community College campus, a University of Arizona South campus, a University of Phoenix and a Western International University campus.

In business, a well known saying is, “location, location, location,” I have to say that Sierra Vista has been an excellent, if not the best location, it practically has it all. Business is booming, yes, but if you want peace and tranquility, Sierra Vista is surrounded by mountain ranges and the last free-flowing river of the Southwest, the San Pedro River is just a few miles away. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and even romantic scenic drives. There is even the world's newest “living” cave, Kartchner Caverns, only 19 miles.

If it is a taste of the “Old Southwest” you want, Tombstone “The Town Too Tough to Die”, is only 16 miles away. I enjoy the fun during “Hell Dorado Days” and have watched a few gunfights over the years. For the history lovers, Bisbee is only 26 miles away with the awesome site of the Lavender Pit, which is so cool to ride on the mine train to explore much of the mine and learn how they mined copper. Douglas, which is home to the beautiful Gadsden Hotel, along with other historical buildings and an entry point to Mexico, is only 60 miles away.

As a high schooler growing up, I did not realize how lucky I was to have many of the opportunities and unique experiences that came with living in Sierra Vista. As an adult raising four children of my own, I realize the importance of good schools, good people, and good communities with plenty of opportunities. These are the reasons I, along with many Sierra Vistans, are raising our families here in Sierra Vista, Arizona.

My Sanctuary

noreply@blogger.com (Carl Chapman) — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 20:55:00 +0000

Arizona has been my home for as long as I can remember. I was born at the Sierra Vista hospital, and lived in the small town, while my dad attended the University of Arizona in pursuit of his degree in civil engineering, and my mom taught at the local high school. We soon began to move residences, and settled in Denver, Colorado at the request of my dad’s employers. We missed the year-round warmth of the sun, and open earth, so every year my family would drive the fourteen grueling hours towards a secret oasis, the home of my grandparents, and every year I fell more in love with the beautiful land and intriguing people of Arizona. Settled in Sierra Vista, Arizona, they ran a cattle ranch and live in a beautiful house on a majestic hill they built soon after I was born. The yearly trip to southern Arizona, not only became an anticipated family excursion, but a vacation from the troubles of school and life. My grandparents care for hundreds of cattle and many horses, and when I was there, whether I was 9 or 19, I was a cowgirl living for the animals, no longer stuck in a city burdened with overpopulation and suburban development.

As my senior year approached, I was thrilled to finally be able to have the chance to apply to an accredited university just an hour away from my sanctuary as a child. As soon as I stepped on the U of A campus I felt at home, just as comfortable as I feel anywhere in the beautiful state. The University of Arizona has provided me with the opportunity to live close to my grandparents, while growing and learning away from the safety net of my parents. I believe that Arizona will be my home after graduation, and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to enjoy college, and most importantly spend time with my family.

Arizona is the place where I attend school, and where some of my best childhood memories remain. The state has provided me so much, and I am thrilled to call Arizona my sanctuary, where I was born, and where I always want to be. Even though my drivers’ license labels me as a Colorado resident, and I return to Colorado for the summer, Arizona is where I grew up, where I spent time with my family, and the place I call home.

The Only Place I Could Call Home

noreply@blogger.com (Carl Chapman) — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 20:55:00 +0000

Not many people my age can claim to have lived their entire lifetime in Sierra Vista, Arizona, but I can, and am happy to say it. I was born at 8:36 a.m. on a hot and sunny June 1st in the Sierra Vista Hospital (now the Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center). Most of my childhood friends came from neat and exotic places all over the world; many were from military families. Friends came and went, and went and came. It was cool when they somehow made it back.

I grew up with two brothers in a red brick house in the Bella Vista area, a central part of the town, where my parents still live and the notches in one old doorframe marking the growth of their children. When I was four years old, I found a picture of a ballerina in the local yellow pages and insisted to my parents that I must start lessons “right now!” Ballet has kept me very busy and very healthy since that day. I took lessons at the Sierra Vista Ballet under the instruction of Hilda Bergsneider for almost ten years and then branched out into other dance forms at LimeLight Productions.

One dance teacher at Limelight, Tina Marie Cooper, was a trained dance therapist. I helped her teach classes on Fort Huachuca, as well as in the studio, and she taught me about the body in movement. Tina once taught a class with some autistic girls, and it was joy to see how much they loved the class. It was about this time that I decided to look into a career in the medical field.

After graduating from Buena High School, I took classes at Cochise College to help me focus on a profession. It was through my coursework at Cochise that I discovered physical therapy. To explore this interest, I took a job working as a tech in a rehabilitation clinic.

Working for Roger Surette, I got hands-on exposure to the profession, what I now feel is my true passion. I loved working with people everyday and knowing that I helped them, even in some small way, feel better when they left the clinic than they did when they arrived. I worked there for a full year before taking my education north to the University of Arizona in Tucson.

I am now a senior at the U of A with a major in the Physiological Sciences. I was offered and have accepted a unique internship at the U of A this fall. Under this F.A.C.E.S. internship (Fostering and Achieving Cultural Equity and Sensitivity in the Health Professions) I will spend hours in several clinical rotations at the University Physicians Hospital at Kino, where I will gain more exposure to physical therapy as well as to pharmacy and nursing. The internship is geared towards developing cultural competency and eliminating healthcare disparities as to minorities using the healthcare system.

My educational plan is to gain a Doctorate of Physical Therapy after I earn my Bachelor of Science degree. I will also explore the pharmacy and nursing options during my internship this fall.

I still dance when I can, schoolwork permitting, as dance has been a great passion in my life. Whenever it is that I graduate, with whatever education I might finally complete, my intention is to practice my craft in Sierra Vista, Arizona, the only place I could call my home.

My Closest Friends and Family

noreply@blogger.com (Carl Chapman) — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 20:53:00 +0000

I have lived in Arizona for 23 years and have spent 21 of those years in Sierra Vista, Arizona. This little city in the southeastern part of the state has a population of roughly 60,000, mostly retired and military because Fort Huachuca is contiguous with Sierra Vista, only separated by Buffalo Soldier Trail. Sierra Vista with its diverse culture has so much to offer all generations who come to visit, and to live. For the older generations, there are two golf courses. The beautiful Huachuca Mountains are only 15 to 20 minutes away, providing great hiking and camping spots. The City of Sierra Vista Parks & Leisure holds a variety of social events for the older generations anywhere from table tennis leagues to social gatherings and trips across the border including cruises. Every year the city holds the annual senior games, which many people from across the country attend. In the fall, there is the triathlon, which starts at the local aquatic center, which is one of the leading centers in the state in just about every aspect, and which I had the privilege of working for as a lifeguard assistant manager for 3 years.

The Aquatic Center also known as the “Cove” is the “wettest wildest fun under one roof.” A truly amazing center, the “Cove” draws much attention for the city with its versatile uses. The facility, which is an indoor wave pool with retractable roofs, caters many different events from privately rented pool parties to movie night at the “Cove” with an advertised movie; this past summer was King Kong and The Chronicles of Narnia. There is also Tsunami night where the waves are turned up, pizza and soda are offered all night long, and a DJ for are provide for a safe and fun getaway for the kids and teenagers. There are swim lessons ranging in age from 6 months to adult. The pool is home to the Buena High School swim team and a local year round team called the “Cougars.” During the year, there is lap swim three times a day, which is a great way to keep in shape and many people of all generations use. Last and not least is the water fitness classes offered from high passed to deep water and even warm water, whatever you are looking for this facility could help you in one way or another.

If you want more out doors there are many excellent trails in the area for horse back riding, ATV’s, and mountain biking. There are girls & adult softball leagues offered plus little league and traveling teams. Other sports are soccer, flag football the bowling league, which meets on the Fort and a dirt bike track called Nomads. There are a variety of different Martial arts in the area, one of which I am an assistant instructor at, plus two gyms, Buena health and fitness, and Cochise racquet club. For just leisure shopping, there is the Wal-Mart and the complex that it is now in with a variety of other stores in just walking distance. Just 3 or 4 miles down the road is “The Mall at Sierra Vista” with which I was employed as a security guard for a while. There are varieties of different restaurants ranging from fine Mexican food to Chinese. The people in the area are some of the nicest I have ever met, very few of them would not help someone if asked, which makes my living in this city even more special to me. The history of the city is quite colorful, going back the establishment of the city in 1956 to the start of Fry Town and to the start of Fort Huachuca in the mid to late 1800’s which would give birth to Fry Town and later Sierra Vista.

Sierra Vista means so much to me I can’t think of another place that I would rather call home. The name Sierra Vista translated means “Mountain View” and I must say that the views of the Huachuca’s and the neighboring mountains provide moments where one wants to stop and enjoy the few beginning moments of the day with the refreshing sun rise, or it’s breath taking sunsets off into the desert night. Sierra Vista to me is a place where people who don’t even know you welcome you. It is the place of my closest friends and family.

St. David Is My Home

noreply@blogger.com (Carl Chapman) — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 20:52:00 +0000

When was the last time you drove down the street and the couple walking their dog actually waved to you? This has not happened to me for some time, however, when I feel the need to want this form of acceptance I make the two and half hour journey down into southern Arizona. I travel to St. David, Arizona so that I can be back at home, definitely, where the heart is.

Aside from enjoying strangers making kind gestures, St. David would not be as welcoming to me if not for the grand farmhouse residing under massive Arizona ash, Chinese elm, and Cottonwood trees. In this structure, built back in the 1950’s, lives my grandmother with numerous cats prowling around outside. The yard surrounding the house is enclosed with a fence where fields filled with vegetables, cows, a horse, and grass account for the outlying area. Beyond the fields, lies two ponds filled with fish hiding in a thicket of mesquite trees and further down lies the San Pedro River. St. David was definitely quite the place to grow up in, just based on the house that I thought I had outgrown. Only now do I realize that I will always hold the town of St. David in my heart, just as my own father and his two brothers still do. They were raised in this same house and graduated from the same high school that I did. St. David is more than just a town on a map, but a site that furnished families, and not just mine.

The population of St. David is just under 2,000 people. This small neighborhood is where friends and bonds are made quickly between the residents. When someone needs a helping hand, like my elderly grandmother, many different community outreaches are made, from the missionary couple who live just down the street or her fellow church congregational members. Not only are residents welcomed to all events, whether it be to school or church activities, outsiders are also always welcome.

With such a small population, this town may seem dull with no excitement whatsoever occurring. Of course, a police beat for St. David usually involves not much beyond strange noises heard in the backyard, yet residents of this quaint town participate in many rewarding activities. For instance, there are numerous swimming and fishing ponds and lakes where many individuals spend hot summer days. Hunting areas surround the town, where gamers are constantly found in search of deer, rabbits, or quail. Also found in this area are train tracks, where many families venture out for picnics to enjoy watching the trains snake their way through the rolling hills. Before these leisure activities take place, a great amount of farm work is completed daily because St. David is predominately a farming community.

Farming is important in this small community, however, not the sole center of the hearts of residents. School is extremely valued in St. David. The St. David School District boasts high standings in standardized tests and each year the graduating class accumulates thousands of dollars in scholarships. Community involvement is one reason for this high success rate, along with the dedicated faculty working in the school district. Every teacher made an effort to show concern with each individual student that made me work harder to achieve the highest grade that I could. I would not be currently attending Arizona State University if it were not for the constant encouragement I received from the faculty.

I am proud to say that I am from St. David, Arizona. The town may not have had a large shopping mall or even a stop light; however, it is filled with residents that generate a true community feeling. St. David is found in each of these individual’s hearts and homes.

McNeal Is My Home

noreply@blogger.com (Carl Chapman) — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 20:52:00 +0000

I live in McNeal, Arizona. I chose McNeal because of that fact it still has the feel of the old west. Ever since I was a little girl, I wanted to be a rancher. Now, that I am a retired firefighter/paramedic; I am living out my dream. My town is very small with very friendly people. Crime is very low. In fact, the police go home at 10pm.

I am involved in the local community garden in Elfrida and in church. The people here are involved in the community and in helping the young people to achieve their goals.
I live on an old ranch that has been divided up and sold off; but you can just feel the old west here. Tombstone is just 30 minutes away.

My town is very peaceful and quiet. I love the fact that I live so far out, that they do not deliver mail out to me. I love just sitting outside at night listening to the peace and quiet and watching the moon and the stars. I enjoy listening to the yapping of the coyotes. I do not believe there is a more beautiful place on earth.

Bulldog Country

noreply@blogger.com (Carl Chapman) — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 20:51:00 +0000

The border town community of Douglas, Arizona may be small but certainly has strong culture and tradition. Douglas High School sports, holidays and class reunions keep the community on its feet year round. On the negative side, everyone is exposed to drugs one way or another. The use and sale of illegal drugs is very common in Douglas. The smuggling of illegal aliens is also available to anyone looking for quick cash. It takes education and strong role models to keep the youth of Douglas out of trouble.

Douglas football is usually the topic of the town from August to November even though the Bulldogs have not had too many winning teams. The community supports the “dawgs” through thick and thin, mostly the thick. Douglas has a smaller pool to pick athletes from; it is so small everyone who tries out for the team makes it. The majority of the team plays both offense and defense. The “dawgs” play schools that are considerably bigger and stronger, mainly because they have more athletes to choose from. Even though the “dawgs” are tough and always play physical. Coaches always commented on how many hard-hitters Douglas always produced. My father is a Douglas football coach so I have followed the “dawgs” since I can remember; I also know some of the opposing coaches.

Douglas and Bisbee High Schools have one of the longest rivalries in high school football in the country. Both teams play annually for “The Pick.” The Pick is a miner’s picks trophy with the score of the last game played which is held for the year by the winning team. The rivalry is strong and tempers flare between both teams and crowds during the game. The game for the pick is the highlight of the “dawgs” season.

Wrestling has always produced exceptional athletes and given much entertainment during the winter season. Baseball is another sport that attracts many to the parks. It all starts with little league baseball, which is taken very seriously by the players and parents. Caravans of fans follow the all-star teams throughout Southern Arizona during the state playoffs. I have seen cars in Sierra Vista with Douglas All-Stars painted on the windows.

Douglas is a tight-knit Hispanic community with strong family values. Just about everyone knows everyone or has at least heard of the family name. Holidays are a time for families and friends to get together and celebrate. All parks are filled with people for every major holiday. Everyone seems to offer carne asada (grilled steak) as the main course at every celebration. There is nothing like a plate of carne asada served with beans and rice, it reminds me of Douglas.

Birthdays are big events, which fill up backyards or parks. These gatherings are never small because families are so big in this town. Piñatas are a must and are always elaborate. It is very important for the woman of the house to present a clean and fancy setting for her guests. The host always makes sure everyone has had enough to eat. Every person is treated as family, even if they are newly introduced. The host is there to accommodate every guest in her house. Almost everyone gets dressed up for these parties, this makes everything fun and that much more important which means a lot to the younger children.

Quincineras (sweet sixteen) parties are no joke to the people of Douglas. These parties last as long as weddings and are planned well ahead of time. Quincineras consist of a court of boys and girls who perform a dance at the reception. The Quincinera starts out as a ceremony in a Catholic church then moves to a hall for the reception. After the performance by the court, dinner is served, then the floor is open for anyone who wants to dance. Once all the guests are settled in, the dance floor is filled with all generations. Grandparents, parents, teenagers and children all dance. Everyone is dressed for the occasion, the court all wear the same dresses and tuxedos.

Ten-year class reunions are held every year. Year round fund-raisers are held in Douglas on specified weekends. The biggest fundraiser is the G Avenue bed-race. Participants are separated into teams, which make their own bed on wheels. G Avenue is blocked off for the duration of the race. One person is on the bed while two people push the bed from Tenth Street to Fifteenth Street and back. The reunion has different activities over a three-day weekend. People usually end up attending two or three reunions because they are close with people whom graduated a year before or after.

Even though there are many great things about Douglas, there is one that people pay attention to; drugs. Being a border town, drug use and smuggling is big. Everyone is exposed to it one way or another. Many high school students know somebody who can get them involved selling or smuggling for quick cash. A lot of money can be made in this business, which makes it appealing to many. So many high school students get into trouble with the law because of their choice to involve themselves. Many teenagers experiment with drugs and end up using on a regular basis. Liquor, cocaine, marijuana and LSD are what many use when “partying in Douglas.” These drugs are very cheap and easy to come by, most kids don't even have to pay, there is always someone who has plenty and hands it out free of charge.

I took a trip to Mazatlan, Mexico where I was able to meet and hang out with many people from Colorado, Phoenix and New Mexico. When they found out I was from Douglas, Arizona they all asked if I had any marijuana with me. They were excited to hear about the availability and prices of drugs that Douglas offered. Many mentioned the drug tunnel that ran from a house in Agua Prieta Sonora across the border to a warehouse in Douglas, Arizona. The drug tunnel is my hometown's claim to fame.

I have seen many people ruin their lives because of drugs. Douglas youth grow up quickly because of drugs, many have a relative or friend who has been in trouble or has a problem. Even though kids are exposed, they don't fully understand the effects drugs have or the consequences people face when using or selling. For some simply being in the wrong place at the wrong time can lead them to trouble.

Selling drugs isn't the only way someone can make quick cash; transporting illegal aliens offers quick cash. I have had two friends who decided to give illegals a ride for money. One friend made $500 to take three men to Phoenix, Arizona and another who made $250 to drive five men in a strangers van to a spot in the desert fifteen minutes out of Douglas. Easy cash for a simple task can leave teenagers in a juvenile facility. The youth of Douglas needs strong positive role models to keep them in line and help them overcome the obstacles thrown in front of them.

Even though people know Douglas for their border issues and stereotype me for simply growing up in Douglas, I am proud to say I come from a town where people are so welcoming they greet people with a hug and a kiss on the cheek. I have been told that it is strange for me to kiss girls on the cheek in front of their husband or family but that is the way we grew up. Every woman close to us gets a hug and a kiss and every man gets a hug. It seems people from Douglas can spot somebody else from Douglas even though there may be a ten-year age difference. People remember each other even if they met each other once through a friend or cousin. I have yet to experience a community as a whole to be as family and friend oriented as I have in Douglas. Citizens of Douglas take so much pride in their town the Douglas motto is, “The Premier Southwestern Border Community.”

Willcox Is My Home

noreply@blogger.com (Carl Chapman) — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 20:50:00 +0000

I live in Willcox, AZ. Many people don't really hear of Willcox. Willcox has a lot of historical background. It is located in Cochise County. This is located in southeastern Arizona.

We have an annual holiday called “Rex Allen Days”, which is a big deal in Willcox. Willcox is a very small town, with a population of about 4000 people. Willcox is my hometown, because it’s small and convenient to everyone in town. Everybody knows everybody and it’s very friendly. The weather here is great and the people here are friendly. Willcox is not only small, but it's an excellent place to raise kids and to just kick back and relax.

The Town Too Tough To Die

noreply@blogger.com (Carl Chapman) — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 20:50:00 +0000

I currently reside in Tombstone, Arizona and call this town my home. Tombstone is a special little town. There is an amazing amount of history that has been recorded here. When this town was originated, some of the people here were outlaws and others were just trying to make an honest living in a new place. The town currently has about the same make up. However, one thing is for sure, everyone here loves this town. From the tourists who can’t wait to return, to the residents trying to promote and preserve its history.

We are a small community only having about twelve hundred residents year round. In the winter, that amount almost doubles because of our wonderful winter weather. We have an elevation of 4500 feet, this allows for a small amount of snow in the winter months, but is high enough to keep us a little cooler in the summer. When winter begins approaching, the “snow birds, people of all ages trying to escape the cold, fill up our camp grounds and rental properties. Some of them even own homes they only reside in for the winter.

When someone comes here, they may notice that almost everyone on the streets is carrying a gun. However, it is not because of the crime. Many residents dress in full 1800s clothing every day. Tourists can even rent a costume for the day. We hold many events honoring groups of people from the past. The biggest event is Helldorado days. People come from everywhere to re-enact gunfights, compete for best 1800s dress, dance, socialize, and learn more history.

We are a close community where everyone knows each other. However, when a visitor comes, they are welcomed as part of our “family.” We don’t have to lock our doors or keep our children inside because of crime. Nevertheless, there is a town marshal and several deputies around just in case things get out of hand. With our historical taverns, some times people do “enjoy” themselves a little too much, and may need a ride back to their room.

Our economy is based mostly on tourism. The residents work together to preserve and promote our history to keep our National Historic Status. We even have a committee that makes sure we are following all of the historic guidelines in our historic district. On the main street, Allen, we have replaced the pavement with dirt. You feel like you are back in the 1800s with the stagecoaches driving by and the cowboys on the corner giving directions. If you get a little thirsty, you may want to stop into the Crystal Palace or Big Nose Kate’s for a Sarsparilla. Not all of the tourists come for the 1800s history. Some come for our other attraction. Our town is haunted. We have been featured in many documentaries because of our ghosts. We have some that walk the streets during the night and some that reside in various historic homes and bordellos. There is a group, friends of the dead, which tourists can contact to go on nighttime ghost walks. These tours give history and go to places where the apparitions have been sighted before. You may even see them for yourself.

Tombstone has been named the “Town Too Tough To Die” because it has burned down, has been shot up by outlaws and had many other challenges, but continues to survive. Any community that can stick together through anything is a community I want to be a part of. The residents here have a dedication to this town and to each other. My community provides safety and security to all who come here, and that’s why I am proud to call Tombstone, Arizona my home.

Palominas Is My Home

noreply@blogger.com (Carl Chapman) — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 22:52:00 +0000

My hometown is Palominas, Arizona. I am proud to be a member of the 6th generation of my family to live in the San Pedro Valley of Arizona. Five generations have been born here. My three times Great-Grandmother settled in the St. David area. She had a trading post there and traded with the Apaches from the Dragoon Mountains. She worked and traded with the Apaches in the 1850’s and 60’s. A few years and several generations later, I was born in Sierra Vista, Arizona. I grew up in Palominas, right next to the San Pedro River.

My family has farmed and irrigated from the San Pedro River their entire lives. Our rural farming way of life is dwindling rapidly I am sorry to say. What my family has enjoyed in a rural community will perhaps be gone before my children are born and grown. I would like to get my degree then come and work in the medical field here in the San Pedro Valley. My wish is to live and thrive in my rural surroundings and be able to offer my children the ability to grow up on the land and learn how important it is to be self-sufficient. One family tradition I grew up with is producing, storing, and eating what you can grow yourself. My family for generations raised cattle and grew crops and come harvest time, they shared with any family less fortunate than they did. It was a way of life to make sure your neighbors had enough to eat, even if you sometimes went with a little less. The cost of taxes and land is making this way of life the exception rather than the rule in small farming areas of Arizona. We must, in my generation and generations to come, find a way to keep the small farms and ranches from disappearing into urban development. Our way of life is important. I feel to the future of America and I plan to work very hard to get my education and then raise my children in the small community way of life. I want them to feel comfortable talking to their neighbors and I want them to help take care of everyone in their community.

Let me tell you a little about my hometown. The name Palominas means “Place of the Doves.” It is from the name “Palominas de San Pedro,” a name that Father Kino gave to an Indian village located by the river in what is now Mexico. Palominas is nestled between the Huachuca Mountains and the Mule Mountains. It has beautiful high desert landscape with a combination of Oak Trees, Mesquite, Creosote Bushes, and Cat Claw. With the San Pedro River running right in the middle of it, with its ribbon of bright green Cottonwood trees and desert willows laced in and out. The river is located along the migratory path between Canada and Mexico; this part of Arizona is one of the best bird-watching areas in the United States. A wide variety of species can be observed all year long, although the hummingbirds are especially plentiful. The Huachuca Mountains are some of the birding hotspots in the U.S. In the shady canyons of these mountains, you'll find the Nature Conservancy's Ramsey Canyon Preserve, as well as Garden Canyon (on Fort Huachuca army base north of Ramsey Canyon). To the south of Ramsey Canyon are Carr Canyon and Coronado National Monument, which both offer more good birding opportunities. To the east of the Huachuca’s lies the San Pedro River, much of which has been designated the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area. This is one of the few rivers in southern Arizona, and though it isn't much bigger than a creek, the forests along its banks attract an astounding variety of birdlife. This part of southern Arizona is the most beautiful spot in the United States as far as I am concerned. We have beautiful weather year around. Very mild winters with just a touch of snow and summers at least 10 to 15 degree’s cooler than Tucson or Phoenix. I would love for anyone to come and see how wonderful it is here and I will bet you that you will want to stay and make this part of Arizona your home.

Come to Palominas and I‘ll show you around.

Elfrida Is My Home

noreply@blogger.com (Carl Chapman) — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 17:38:00 +0000

I love my hometown; although small, it is a thriving community. There are many aspects that make a small town thrive and function, and we have them all. Life in a small town is more fulfilling than meets the eye. We have the basics needed, we benefit more than just ourselves, and the quality of life is simpler no hustle and bustle.

I live in the small town of Elfrida, in the southeast corner of Arizona. It was often the big joke, while I was growing up that while driving through if you blinked you would miss the town entirely. As a small town, we have what is needed. We have adequate police protection, a fire department, loaded with volunteers, a medical facility, an elementary school, a high school, two stores, two gas stations, and four churches in this tiny town, with active members in each church. Naturally, volunteer work is not limited to the fire department; you will find them at the schools and the community center as well. There is no sales tax, no mayor to impose town laws. Our schools have won numerous awards, both in the elementary and high school, for being the best in the state. The high school has set state records in both athletics and academics.

Elfrida was once famous for its crop of peaches. People from all over the state knew about Grizzle Peaches, and there was no comparison from anywhere else to their sweet juicy taste. In this valley, we harvest chili, which is grown specifically for the Macayo’s Mexican Restaurants in Phoenix and Tucson. Also grown here is corn, which provides a large percentage of the corn tortillas used in the west. Other crops grown are maze, which is a grain crop, alfalfa, apples, cherries, pecans, grapes, and pinto beans. Many raise cattle here, and the land is capable of growing cotton.

I hated life growing up in a small town; the opportunities were limited, and of course no fun for a kid or teenager. We didn’t go to movies, play video games or hang out at the local mall; we were however, creative in our fun. That is where the benefits come in. We invented ways not to be bored, which means we went outside. We rode horses, played cowboys and Indians with cap guns, and with our very own homemade bows and arrows, built forts, and dug foxholes. Our swing sets were made out of old tires, or a board for the seat. We even played C.H.I.P.S. while riding our banana seat bicycles. In a small town, there are options that are not available to you when you come from the big city. If I want to go camping I can do that anywhere between 5-10 miles with a maximum of 30 miles from my home. I don’t have to travel a hundred miles to go camping and when I get there, find 20 people at the same camp site. I can go hiking or target shooting right down the road.

The temperatures are cooler in the summer and more comfortable year round. We actually have about as close as you can get to four seasons in Arizona. We are a self-sustained community. People are friendlier and give you a warm, genuine hello even if you are a stranger. I moved from Phoenix where all that my children had for a back yard seemed no larger than a refrigerator cardboard box. I feared for their safety; refusing to let them ride their bikes or turn my back for two seconds, which made my 10 year old feel untrusted. Over protective mother, maybe; but since we’ve moved they can run, play, go over to their friends houses’, ride their bikes, do all the things that I was able to do while growing up, most of all, they get to be kids. I am here getting an education, to make life better for my children and I, by doing so I am able to let them enjoy the thrills that I experienced. I have been to many different regions of this great nation as well as a handful of different countries since I left after graduation; and I never thought that I would return. No matter where I’ve been or will ever go there’s only once place I call home.

Mountain View

noreply@blogger.com (Carl Chapman) — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 17:13:00 +0000

I have lived in Arizona for 23 years and have spent 21 of those years in Sierra Vista, Arizona. This little city in the southeastern part of the state has a population of roughly 60,000, mostly retired and military because Fort Huachuca is contiguous with Sierra Vista, only separated by Buffalo Soldier Trail. Sierra Vista with its diverse culture has so much to offer all generations who come to visit, and to live. For the older generations, there are two golf courses. The beautiful Huachuca Mountains are only 15 to 20 minutes away, providing great hiking and camping spots. The City of Sierra Vista Parks & Leisure holds a variety of social events for the older generations anywhere from table tennis leagues to social gatherings and trips across the border including cruises. Every year the city holds the annual senior games, which many people from across the country attend. In the fall, there is the triathlon, which starts at the local aquatic center, which is one of the leading centers in the state in just about every aspect, and which I had the privilege of working for as a lifeguard assistant manager for 3 years.

The Aquatic Center also known as the “Cove” is the “wettest wildest fun under one roof.” A truly amazing center, the “Cove” draws much attention for the city with its versatile uses. The facility, which is an indoor wave pool with retractable roofs, caters many different events from privately rented pool parties to movie night at the “Cove” with an advertised movie; this past summer was King Kong and The Chronicles of Narnia. There is also Tsunami night where the waves are turned up, pizza and soda are offered all night long, and a DJ for are provide for a safe and fun getaway for the kids and teenagers. There are swim lessons ranging in age from 6 months to adult. The pool is home to the Buena High School swim team and a local year round team called the “Cougars.” During the year, there is lap swim three times a day, which is a great way to keep in shape and many people of all generations use. Last and not least is the water fitness classes offered from high passed to deep water and even warm water, whatever you are looking for this facility could help you in one way or another.

If you want more out doors there are many excellent trails in the area for horse back riding, ATV’s, and mountain biking. There are girls & adult softball leagues offered plus little league and traveling teams. Other sports are soccer, flag football the bowling league, which meets on the Fort and a dirt bike track called Nomads. There are a variety of different Martial arts in the area, one of which I am an assistant instructor at, plus two gyms, Buena health and fitness, and Cochise racquet club. For just leisure shopping, there is the Wal-Mart and the complex that it is now in with a variety of other stores in just walking distance. Just 3 or 4 miles down the road is “The Mall at Sierra Vista” with which I was employed as a security guard for a while. There are varieties of different restaurants ranging from fine Mexican food to Chinese. The people in the area are some of the nicest I have ever met, very few of them would not help someone if asked, which makes my living in this city even more special to me. The history of the city is quite colorful, going back the establishment of the city in 1956 to the start of Fry Town and to the start of Fort Huachuca in the mid to late 1800’s which would give birth to Fry Town and later Sierra Vista.

Sierra Vista means so much to me I can’t think of another place that I would rather call home. The name Sierra Vista translated means “Mountain View” and I must say that the views of the Huachuca’s and the neighboring mountains provide moments where one wants to stop and enjoy the few beginning moments of the day with the refreshing sun rise, or it’s breath taking sun sets off into the desert night. Sierra Vista to me is a place where people who don’t even know you welcome you. It is the place of my closest friends and family.

My Peaceful Little Town

noreply@blogger.com (Carl Chapman) — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 18:19:00 +0000

Arizona was not my home. I came from Oswego, New York. I moved here with my now husband. He was tired of spending most of his year(s) in Iraq when he was stationed at Ft. Campbell. When I moved here with him, it was to get some time together. I came into the relationship already toting two kids. Therefore, for us to have time together in any aspect was hard enough already. We came here to Sierra Vista, Arizona as an option to get a rest from deployments. When I first got here, I hated this place. My husband is from Phoenix, so we visited there as soon as we arrived in Arizona. I enjoyed the area immensely. I grew very excited in starting the new life, in a new state, as an “us.”

My excitement changed when we drove three hours south and started looking for a new place to call home. It was tiny, nothing to do, and completely secluded for the most part within a 30-mile radius. Three days later, after searching for a house, we came upon one that we settled for. It was by no means perfect, but this was now our home. As we grew in family size from four to five, we needed a new place. I found something when my husband came home with a real estate magazine of Sierra Vista. I just happened to find one or two houses that were for rent. I checked it out in advance before approaching my husband with the idea of moving. I loved the house. He liked it as well. We moved.

This was in May of 2006. Now I am enrolled in college courses, have three kids to boot, and a husband in Korea. My day is non-stop with sports, school, daycare, and then the mommy chores around the house. I was emotional when I found out that we were not eligible for financial aid. This is a first for us. I also took on the burden of taking in my brother-in-law, who is homeless, shortly before getting the notice of non-eligibility.

I have learned to grow quite fond of this little town. As much as there is not much to do, there is a fine point. I can get almost anywhere in town within fifteen minutes. The kids know their friends and neighbors. In addition, I run into people around school, the store, church, and even just out walking. Familiar faces are what I like for my kids. It helps them blossom in the social aspect.

Now when we go to Phoenix to visit, although it is a nice change of pace for us, it is hectic. Moreover, every time I have had enough of my three-day weekend, I know that I am going to come home to my peaceful little town of Sierra Vista. Kids, we’re going home!

Sierra Vista, the Town without a Past!

noreply@blogger.com (Carl Chapman) — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 16:36:00 +0000

Imagine a small, but thriving community, set against a beautiful background of picturesque mountains. Imagine clear, blue skies, warm weather, and the most beautiful; awe inspiring sunrises and sunsets, and clean, fresh air. Imagine a moon so large you can reach out and touch it, and stars so bright that you can spend all night viewing the many constellations. Imagine this same town within a short driving distance to natural parks, ghost towns, many famous historical places and even another country. A place ready-made for all people who shy away from cold weather, a place filled with all different species of birds and animals year-round, where 'snowbirds' of all species migrate to. This is my town, the lovely little town of Sierra Vista, Arizona, the town without a past.

Sierra Vista is a town of about 40,000 people, small enough to retain a small town atmosphere, yet big enough for anything that is needed. It is a rapidly growing community because of its ideal, central location and spreading popularity. With sunny winters, and constant blue skies, it's enough by itself to draw people in numbers, even without all its added benefits of the surrounding area. Founded in the 1950's, it was built around the famous Ft. Huachuca, an old military fort used in the 1800's to fight Indian Wars. The fort is still thriving today, as is Sierra Vista. Because of its new origin, Sierra Vista has no downtown, unlike most older towns. Instead, it has several main streets, with the main street, Fry Blvd., leading into the fort, and many little growth spurts around all the shopping centers.

Despite its newness, Sierra Vista still managed to elbow its way into the records book as having been first in something that has become a worldwide craze. The McDonald's on Fry Blvd. was the very first fast food restaurant in the country to come up with the idea of a drive-through! A very important and popular addition to our modern, rushed style of living, and one that many people can't seem to live without!

Sierra Vista makes an ideal place to live, no matter what you're interested in. It's big enough for whatever you need, yet small enough to make it easy to get around in, and to make you feel at home. Despite being a new town, it's surrounded on all sides by a historical past. Not only is Ft. Huachuca is nearby, but also the very famous town of Tombstone, where after just a 20-minute drive, you feel as though you've entered a time warp, where the streets are made of dirt, and stagecoaches and horses roam the streets, along with citizens dressed in the costumes of the 1800's, and gunfights in the streets. After about a 45-minute drive, you can wander the scenic streets and attractive little shops of the artistic old mining town of Bisbee, take a tour of the copper mine, or view all the art from the artist community that now lives there. If you really have a spirit of adventure, you can make the 45-minute drive to the border, and cross over into a completely different country! The small town of Naco, Sonora, Mexico is perfect for getting an authentic feel for what Mexico is really like. It's also a perfect chance to brush up on that Spanish you've been putting off learning!

Though there are plenty of activities for the 'hobby' minded, such as golf, craft shops and ballooning, there is also even more for people that don't have the money to spend on their hobbies, or just want to 'save a buck'. There are two movie theatres with competitive prices, which also show free afternoon movies from time to time. There are constantly art shows, flea markets and children's fairs that have no entry fee. At the children's fairs, you can often find a small petting zoo, where you can let your children loose among the animals and snap pictures to your heart's content, all for no charge. There are restaurants galore, from high to low prices; there is something for every one of all tastes. Go for Chinese one night, Mexican the other, and Vietnamese the next, or just settle for some home-style cooking, a quick fast-food trip, or a quiet night at home with your choice of pizza.

For a day out with the kids, take them to one of the many green parks that Sierra Vista sports, containing several playgrounds each, and let your kids run wild while you catch a snooze or read a long forgotten book. It's a great place for an inexpensive date as well. Pack a picnic lunch and take a walk around the park or swing on the swings, a nice opportunity to talk in peaceful surroundings.

Sierra Vista recently acquired a large water park for those hot days where you just can't take the heat. For a small entry fee, you can swim and splash to your heart's content in one of the large pools, the water slides or the heated pool. The park is always holding numerous activities to include everyone. You can have a water party, where they provide 'all you can eat' pizza, or take your baby and go to a fun 'Mommy and me' splash time, where the water is shallow and the water toys are abundant.

For the more adventurous minded, there are nature parks in plenty, with hiking trails and signposts to describe where you are. The San Pedro River, the only free-flowing river in the southwest, has a nature center set up, where you can get some quick info on the area, or browse their unique gift shop. A hummingbird refuge, birdwatchers come from all over the world to view all the different species of birds that live here. Located within hiking distance of the San Pedro are several ghost towns, where you can view the old ruins of the towns and mines that were located there. Just be sure to watch out for the mine pits and rattlesnakes! On your hikes, keep an eye out for all the indigenous cactus, mesquite trees and wild herbs that are growing nearby. Some trails even have signs posted to describe the different vegetation.

My personal favorite is the Coronado National Park and Forest. With rolling mountains, beautiful trees, dry riverbeds, and cactus and wildlife in plenty, it's a beautiful place to go and get a 'real feel' of the desert life, yet have trees surrounding you with their shade at the same time! There is a cave you can hike to and explore, and at one spot in the forest there is a place where after a five-mile hike, you can reach the fence bordering Mexico, and see the spot where Coronado first crossed over into America. Along the hike, you can stop at special viewing spots and look out over the world, spotting towns miles away, or just enjoy the surrounding mountains.

There are many other virtues to this small, lovely town in the desert, far too many to list. These are the main reasons, though, why Sierra Vista is my home, and why no matter where I end up in the future, I will always think of it as my hometown. Arizona is a beautiful state, and certainly a must for anyone to visit, but also a wonderful place to live. It's a state like no other, and my town of Sierra Vista far surpasses the imagination.

My Hometown

noreply@blogger.com (Carl Chapman) — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 21:05:00 +0000

Many people believe a hometown is where you currently live. I have always believed otherwise. Although I was born in Flensburg, Germany and have recently moved from Shawnee, Kansas to Elkridge, Maryland, I firmly believe my hometown is still and will always be Sierra Vista, Arizona. Although I’ve moved to places that were near big cities, such as Kansas City, Missouri and Baltimore, Maryland, I have not been able to shake the small town Sierra Vista homesickness, I endure during the school year. Fortunately, I am still able to visit my hometown of Sierra Vista every summer, because my mom and step dad still reside there. Even though I only lived there for eight years, Sierra Vista has always been the special place I call my hometown.

Many of my friends and family don’t understand how Sierra Vista is such a great place. Most think it’s because the family I have there, but it’s way more than that. They don’t understand the heart warming significance of the encompassing mountains, green and lush during the raging thunderstorms of the monsoon season; dried to ashes during the spring and summer; and snow capped for no more than three days at a time during the months of winter. They don’t realize how the never ending view of the Arizona desert makes me happy with awe. They don’t understand how I love the suppressing heat as every year it gets hotter and hotter (we had all 100 plus degree days last summer), drying up old lakes and ponds, where my childhood memories of fishing took place; while having the fire hazard at Highly Severe everyday, forcing me to drink like a camel in the Sahara. To top everything off, Sierra Vista nestled sweetly in the middle of this beautiful mountain desert landscape.

To me Sierra Vista is more than what most people see. Where most people just see a small town in the middle of nowhere attempting to develop, I see a beautiful little city where great memories took place. Sierra Vista was where I got 7th place on my first official cross country race ever, and 12th at the 3rd annual Cochise County Youth Classic race. It was were my wonderful 6th birthday party took place at the local Peter Piper Pizza, and where I read all sorts of books to meet the requirements of the local Hastings’ summer book club. It was were I willingly got up super early on Saturday’s to go down to the Flea Market, and find cheap trinkets that only a child would want. It was where every year, my family and I would gather in the park on the fourth of July to yet again see the worst display of a fireworks show ever, but still come back year after year to see it again and laugh about it all the way home. This is my hometown Sierra Vista.

Although there have been many changes in Sierra Vista, my outlook of it hasn’t changed. It is still wonderful. Today in Sierra Vista, we have a marvelous indoor wave pool called The Cove, where I enjoy Tsunami nights during the summer. The Sierra Vista Mall was built, and although there isn’t much to it, it is still a popular asset to the town. Many, many, many new housing developments are being built, the majority of them having special paths for runners and bicycles. Currently, everyone is getting excited for the new Best Buy that will be built right next to the mall. In addition, the fourth of July show is beginning to improve year after year. Isn’t Sierra Vista great or what?

Although I been to and moved to many gorgeous places, I can’t seem to get Sierra Vista out of me. No matter where I am, I always have a tugging feeling in my heart that I want to be in Sierra Vista. It will be a wonderful reunion when I return to live there for a few years after graduation. I’ve gotten so used to just visiting Sierra Vista every year, that next year will be a big surprise when I don’t get back on an airplane to leave. I think it will be wonderful to attend either Cochise College in Sierra Vista or take an hour commute every day to the University of Arizona.

Sierra Vista has always been the heart of my childhood and the longing of my adolescence. I am a small town girl lost in a big city, counting down the days until I go home. Those days are becoming less and less as graduation becomes closer. Next year, I will have a one-way flight from Baltimore, Maryland to Phoenix, Arizona. Then a three hour drive to my hometown, Sierra Vista. Home is where you make it, but a hometown is where your heart makes it.

Mountain Range View

noreply@blogger.com (Carl Chapman) — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 17:09:00 +0000

Until I began my college career, I never truly appreciated the quaint little town. I can't say that I was born and raised in Sierra Vista. I was born on Fort Huachuca in 1986, I was a baby when I did a tour of the world with my military parents, and then returned to Sierra Vista/Fort Huachuca in 1997. I finished my education back in Sierra Vista, where my friends and I complained of the lack of activities in our town.

I suppose, it’s until you are older, one can experience Sierra Vista in its true splendor.

I am now a student at the University of Arizona, in Tucson, Arizona. My first night on the town had hit me hard when I glanced up to the sky and saw no stars. I guess I took for granted the nights of stargazing during my “bored” phases. Tucson also has a wretched heat, Sierra Vista also suffers from the same heat, but there is always a constant little breeze from the mountains that gives the town its name. Sierra Vista literally translates into “Mountain Range View,” which solidifies its status as a beautiful gem in the southeastern-most county of the state.

Sierra Vista/Fort Huachuca is the hub of commerce and growth in Cochise County, Arizona. I am always surprised to return and see a new development such as a Best Buy or an IHOP entering the town. It is nice to see Sierra Vista now compared to 1997 and hearing from when my parents resided in the town in the '80's. Despite the incredible growth of commercial real estate, there is still plenty of “boonie-land;” undeveloped, untouched areas that were enjoyable to view and explore during my days as a cross country runner and taking incredibly long walks with my dog (a by-product of the “lack” of things to do). Of course, such exposure to the outdoors segues into run-ins with the wildlife with close encounters and close escapes. My dog and I have run into gorgeous Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds as well as javelinas and a coyote. Mind you, this is only at the foot of the mountain ranges. As one progress higher up into the mountains, deer, raccoons, as well as the occasional bear can be spotted.

Sierra Vista is a rare city as its average temperature for the year is 74.8 degrees Fahrenheit. Supposedly, the happiest people live in areas with that temperature range. Until moving…I realize I was much happier in Sierra Vista, as I had my dog, my friends, and the stars.

Arizona Is Where I Needed To Be

noreply@blogger.com (Carl Chapman) — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 22:53:00 +0000

As a child, I lived in Sierra Vista, AZ. The city was small, calm, and welcoming. I had countless friends and took part in several community activities, most of which took place at the city park. My mother was a Girl Scout troop leader. I am quite fond of these memories.

In elementary school, we had several visitors, one of which sticks in my mind. He was an officer for the police department and came in to teach his D.A.R.E. program. He taught us the dangers of drug abuse and gangs. He taught us how to recognize dangerous situations and steer clear of them. The reason this stands out so much is because the things he was warning us about, weren’t things you saw in Sierra Vista.

Now that I am an adult I realize the importance of his teachings. He wasn’t saying Sierra Vista was a bad place. He was saying, “These things exist, be careful”. As I entered junior high, my family moved to New Mexico. This was a complete culture shock for me. I began to see things I had only ever heard of before. I smelt marijuana for the first time, although I didn’t know what it was at the time. I remember thinking back to the D.A.R.E. classes. This is when I began using the information that police officer had taught us. I stayed away from the places that made me feel uneasy, and I just said “no”.

Although I never had trouble with drugs or gangs, life was rough outside of Arizona. I was a teenage mother. I was a high school drop out. I was in a violent marriage for a couple of years. I worked a low paying job. For a while I couldn’t imagine myself ever having a college education, but things were about to change.

In the summer of 2004, I moved back to Arizona. Something inside me told me Arizona is where I needed to be. This time I chose Tucson. I had big hopes and dreams and knew I would need a big city to fulfill them. I began pursuing a college education with a very ambitious goal; I wanted to be a doctor. I will be finishing my Associate’s degree this fall and have transferred up to NAU to utilize their distance learning program to attain my Bachelor’s in Science. Afterwards, I plan to transfer back down here to Tucson and attend the University of Arizona, College of Medicine. In the mean time, I work fulltime managing a medical practice. I am involved with a wonderful man and have 3 children. So you see, life in Arizona is wonderful. It’s full of opportunities.

Sierra Vista Is My Home

noreply@blogger.com (Carl Chapman) — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 22:24:00 +0000

I grew up in a very small town named Sierra Vista, AZ. Growing up everyone from school, including myself, referred to our city as “Sorry Vista”. It seemed as if there was never anything to do there besides go out to eat. We actually just got a mall about 6 years ago. That was pretty much the excitement of my life. Finally something exciting to do, but alas the mall came to be known as “the hall at Sierra Vista”. Not even a mall would spice up this boring, retirement town.
Yes, a retirement city-it is located right next to the army base, Ft. Huachuchua. Many retired military men raised their families in Sierra Vista. The town was being taken over by old people. I could not wait to graduate college and get away from the small town that I had grown to hate. I always thought that after graduating college I'd move as far away as I could get-either California or Texas. Now those are two great states, what does Arizona have to offer? Apparently, I was young and stupid.

I moved 90 miles away from my hometown to a town named Tucson. I was so excited to move away and finally leave behind this small, boring town. I've been in Tucson for about 7 months now and I would rather be back in Sierra Vista then anywhere else. I've grown to miss the small things-Denny's (where everyone always hung out), everyone knowing my name, the church and preacher I grew up with, the house I lived in and loved more then anything else, and being able to get anywhere in the town in under 10 minutes. After being away from my hometown for less then a year, I've realized how great my hometown really was.

After I graduate college, I plan on moving back to Sierra Vista and teaching at the same high school I graduated from. I want nothing more then to get married and raise a family in the wonderful city that I grew up in. As an added bonus, half of my family lives in Sierra Vista so family time is very valued and very frequent. I guess the saying “distance makes the heart grow fonder” rings true to this situation. It took a very short amount of time for me to realize that yes, “Arizona is my home” but even more so, “Sierra Vista is my home”.