theHISTORY & MYSTERY of the Carefree CEMETERY Dear Reader, You might be wondering why on earth an editor would choose to cover any town’s cemetery, let alone an out-of-the-way little village with an easy-going name like Carefree, Arizona. However, one glance at the incredible photographs that came from this assignment and I think you’ll support my decision. The first mysterious detail is that it’s named the Cave Creek Cemetary although it’s located in the Town of Carefree. But these things happen as neighboring towns collaborate so we won’t be derailed by blurred borders and shared plots. A cemetery is a fascinating place that often tells the real story of a community. It harbors memories and history, wrapped in a delicate and emotional package that in this case just happens to be beautiful as well. This is the time of year that we memorialize those who have passed and at the same time, it is a season of blossoming. Here you will see the bittersweet dichotomy of lush overgrowth on timeworn headstones and the intimate tales they tell. It’s not often that you have an offbeat assignment such as this, much less a photographer who literally gasps with delight upon learning of the assignment. It seems odd to recommend a visit to a cemetery, but I believe the rich images from our staff photographer, Jennifer Agema, and her write-up that follows will tempt you to slow down, take a stroll and take a closer look at the hidden beauty of this restful corner of Carefree. ~Serena Webbe, editor
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