I Love You, Arizona!

by Nicole Careaga

Each year around this time, many folks are thinking about hearts, flowers, chocolates and diamonds. How can you not when the TV is littered with ads about obtaining the best of the best for your special someone. However, growing up here in the valley, this month always brings a different type of feeling for me. Fond memories of my youth, attending elementary school and enjoying what we so eagerly celebrated at this time, Arizona Week. See, I went to a school where we embraced our local heritage and celebrated the birthday of AZ each year. A birthday that little know actually falls on Valentine’s Day. We would celebrate by hosting square dancing contests, learning about the state and participating in fun activities as a school.

For those of you that are not aware, this year February 14, marks Arizona’s 109 birthday. In 1912, President William Howard Taft signed the declaration allowing us to become the 48th state. All this, after the residents of Arizona voted against becoming part of New Mexico. Growing up we were given the knowledge of our state bird; the cactus wren, or state tree; the Palo Verde, and even sang what one day became recognized as a state song, I Love You Arizona.

Now that I am older, being an Arizonan has a new meaning. It became the place I found love, my career, and we have another generation of Arizonans that will pass on the traditions of the past.

Many of you, either visited, had family here, or heard of the vast beauty our state holds and have come here to create a new home, or even a second home. I enjoy that I have been able to be a part, while be it small, in so many of you living in the place that my family has called home for three generations. Toscana embodies the idea of outdoor living, enjoying recreation, friends and family. Our beautiful desert landscape thrives in our climate, and enjoys our sunny days as much as we do. The view of the golf courses to the north has become a symbol of our city and state.

As we move into a new year, I hope you all will join the team and I in continuing to make Arizona and Toscana a fantastic place to call home. Be on the lookout for the dates and times of upcoming committee meetings, board meetings, and beautification projects.