Good Morning and Welcome to July!

Today marks my 14th anniversary with the Sonoran Resorts, and yesterday was my birthday. I am incredibly proud to work for such an honorable and reputable company like Sonoran Resorts and the Sonoran Star. As for my birthday, once you reach a certain age, they start to feel less significant. While I'm not old yet, I'm old enough to see it as just another day. Maybe a nice meal, a couple of glasses of wine, and an early bedtime around 9:00 PM, as usual. Who could ask for more? Life is fleeting, and it's important to enjoy every day, birthday or not.

Now, on to business. The progress at the fantastic Sonoran Star Resort continues at an impressive pace, and we are on track to deliver Phase I in May. The massive crew is currently working on the 14th floor of Tower #1. The underground support pillars and foundational work for Towers #2 and #4 are complete, and the elevator structure between Towers #1 and #2 is nearly finished up to the 3rd floor. Work on the amazing amenities, including multiple pools, a lazy river, fire pits, and a private beach, will begin this month. Soon, you'll see just how impressive the entire resort will be. Come visit us, and you'll understand why I am so excited about this new beachfront development.

Sales for Tower #2 begin for the public on July 4th, and we will celebrate with an open house from the 4th through the 7th. We'll host a traditional July 4th picnic with hot dogs, hamburgers, potato salad, music, and drinks. Please stop by to see our model condo and tour the job site if you can. On Saturday evening, we'll have a special celebration featuring a fireworks display, live music, food, drinks, and a tribute to our former CEO, Fernando Anaya (QEPD).

The weather in town has been typical for this time of year: temperatures in the 80s and 90s with increasing humidity. While the temperatures aren't as extreme as in Phoenix, the humidity makes it feel warmer than the thermometer says. Personally, I prefer the lower temperatures and higher humidity over the scorching heat of Phoenix or Mexicali.

Have a very safe and enjoyable Fourth of July holiday, and remember to celebrate the true meaning of the day. Whether you're in Rocky Point or the USA, it's more than just a BBQ and time off work. This holiday marks the creation of the United States of America, and we should all feel thankful and strive to uphold the ideals of the founding fathers, respecting and appreciating their efforts and sacrifices.

Enjoy this beautiful month, and if you can, come to Rocky Point. If you need anything, don't hesitate to ask. Feel free to take advantage of my many years of full-time experience here. I'm more than happy to assist you with anything that I can, whether it's Sonoran Resorts related or not.

Feel free to call or email anytime, and I'll do my very best to help you. If I can't address your needs directly, I'm confident I can guide you in the right direction and connect you with someone who can.

Besides the links below, you can our listings at the following:

www.sonoranstar.com

www.sonoranresorts.mx

AMPI Puerto Penasco MLS

Pick up a handout at any of our Sonoran Resorts

Scottsdale Barrett Jackson Shows

Various Real Estate and Trade shows in AZ, NV, and CA

www.SonoranStar.com

Progress Continues on the New Sonoran Star Resort!

Recycling is Alive and Well in Rocky Point

Over a ton of cardboard and a ton of PET plastic have been collected at the Municipal Collection Center through the "EcoConscious" campaign. Thanks to the alliance formed with educational, artistic, and sports institutions, and the installation of 23 containers in strategic areas, there has been significant progress in raising awareness about the proper management and disposal of urban solid waste. This effort has contributed to improving the urban image and maintaining order in these areas.

Additionally, the Municipal Collection Center has received materials such as cardboard, PET plastic, plastic caps, batteries, and paper collected by citizens. The Department of Ecology thanked all participating institutions in this ecological campaign, which was a commitment by Mayor Jorge Pivac to promote proper waste management in the city.

The Municipal Collection Center, located at the corner of Belisario Domínguez and Derecho de Vía, is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm and Saturdays from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm.

Puerto Peñasco Medical Personnel Receive ACLS Certification

In a significant step towards establishing a medical tourism cluster in Puerto Peñasco, local doctors and paramedics have been certified in Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS). This initiative represents the first step in enhancing medical tourism in the region.

Between June 22 and 23, a workshop was held at the Peñasco Expo Center to certify 33 doctors from clinics and hospitals, paramedics, and members of the Fire Department. The workshop was supported by the Municipal Government, led by Mayor Jorge Pivac, in coordination with Dr. Miguel Ángel Padilla, coordinator of MEDTOURSON.

The training, led by Enrique Manuel Ramírez, aimed to equip medical personnel with the skills to handle cardiological emergencies, ensuring high-quality services for both local citizens and patients from the United States.

The Sonora Medical Tourism Project (MEDTOURSON) envisions creating a medical cluster specializing in various fields. This will provide better health services to the region and promote medical tourism, thus boosting Puerto Peñasco's economy.

Dr. Miguel Ángel Padilla Durán, representing MEDTOURSON in Puerto Peñasco, confirmed that the course covered cardiovascular emergencies, including acute coronary syndrome, stroke, respiratory arrest, cardiac arrest, airway management, defibrillator use, external pacemaker placement, CPR, and the management of lethal and non-lethal arrhythmias. The course also included simulations of different cases to identify and treat various causes effectively.

Padilla Durán emphasized that this certification marks a pivotal development for the medical and paramedical staff, ensuring qualified professionals are available to provide high-quality services to both locals and visitors. This training is expected to increase patient survival rates by up to 60%.

He highlighted that this course is the beginning of establishing a medical services cluster for both tourists and local residents, ensuring better emergency care tools for visitors from the United States and Canada, as well as residents.

Padilla Durán also thanked the municipal government, led by Jorge Pivac, for their support in this endeavor, acknowledging the combined efforts of local businesses and medical professionals to enhance medical tourism in Puerto Peñasco.

Rolling Rockies Wheelchair Basketball Team in 1st Place Tournament

Puerto Peñasco achieved 1st Place in the city of Navojoa last weekend as well as in Caborca ​​in April and in Puerto Peñasco in May so we have 1st place in the Wheelchair Basketball League in the state of Sonora but we still need to attend Hermosillo in July, Obregon in August, and Nogales in September so we need support to be able to achieve it.

We are thrilled to represent our City and plan to bring back the first-place trophy. This victory is our way of thanking everyone who supported us in donations and in attending this event. We extend our heartfelt gratitude and countless blessings for your generosity and support.

This team exists by donations only, so if you would like to donate in order to help them continue their proud winning streak, please email: frankba.lp@gmail.com

BLESSINGS, Francisco Bercovich, Team Captain

Water Tanks Construction Completed, Helping to Assure Adequate Water Supply

The water supply in Puerto Peñasco has stabilized with the activation of the storage tanks located behind the Instituto Tecnológico Superior de Puerto Peñasco and the operation of 11 wells, announced Héctor Acosta Félix.

In a statement, the General Director of the Municipal Water, Sewerage, and Sanitation Agency (OOMAPAS) reported that water delivery via tankers continues only in areas not yet connected to the water pipeline network.

He specified that the storage tank provides over 500,000 liters of water daily to the network, primarily serving residents in the San Rafael and Nuevo Peñasco neighborhoods. This supply complements the water sourced from the wells in the Puerto Peñasco area.

He recalled that an electrical failure at one of the wells recently caused low pressure and water shortages. The issue was resolved quickly, and water supply returned to normal.

For areas and neighborhoods lacking a piped water supply, OOMAPAS is providing water via tanker trucks.

He noted that the purchase and installation of two storage tanks, each with a capacity of 2 million liters, were funded by the Municipal Government, led by Mayor Jorge Pivac, and OOMAPAS. This effort aims to enhance and streamline water distribution and prevent outages.

600 Pet Sterilizations Achieved in First Half of 2024

More than 600 pet sterilizations, including dogs and cats, were completed in the first half of 2024 through ongoing campaigns in various neighborhoods and community centers in Puerto Peñasco, revealed Erick Francisco Gastélum Pacheco.

The head of Animal Control at the Municipal Health Coordination reported that, in response to the hot season, preventive actions are being intensified. These include spaying and neutering, vaccination, deworming, and medicated baths for ticks, with at least two campaigns conducted weekly.

He stated that an average of 100 pets are being sterilized each month, with roughly equal numbers of dogs and cats. This year, however, more cats have been brought to these campaigns.

During the most recent campaign held on Tuesday, June 18, at the Nueva Esperanza Community Center, 75 pets were treated, including 15 sterilizations, 19 rabies vaccinations, 40 deworming treatments, and 28 medicated baths.

He emphasized the positive response from the Puerto Peñasco community and mentioned that the objective is to continue these campaigns across different neighborhoods. The aim is to match or exceed the nearly 1,000 sterilizations achieved in 2023 by the end of the current municipal administration.

Gastélum Pacheco added that sterilization campaigns, along with mobile clinics, fumigation against harmful fauna, and other preventive measures, are being maintained regularly in community centers and at homes that request these health services.

Mayor Jorge Pivac Announces the Construction of Walmart in Puerto Peñasco

Mayor Jorge Pivac has announced the construction of a Walmart Mexico store in Puerto Peñasco. The company has obtained all necessary permits from the municipal administration, and the initial phase of land preparation has already begun.

The store will be located on Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez Boulevard, near the intersection with Fremont Boulevard, and is expected to open in 2025.

The mayor stated that all possible legal facilitation was provided to Walmart's legal representatives to successfully complete the required procedures, including obtaining construction and feasibility permits as stipulated by law.

"This administration has always supported the development and growth of Puerto Peñasco. We have provided every possible assistance for this store's construction, which will generate significant economic benefits as a source of direct and indirect employment, starting from the initial construction phase," the mayor said.

He also noted that this new commercial establishment will offer residents and visitors an additional option for purchasing goods and services.

Cannonball Jellyfish Harvest in El Golfo de Santa Clara, Sonora

The cannonball jellyfish, primarily found in the state of Sonora, is consumed in the Asian market and used in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.

This jellyfish species belongs to the Stomolophidae family and is commonly known as the cannonball jellyfish, cabbage-head jellyfish, or cannonball jelly, named for the shape and size of its bell.

Like other marine species, cannonball jellyfish are predators, feeding on marine fish, particularly croakers. Their main threat in the ocean is the leatherback turtle, which relies on jellyfish for survival.

Ivancito Mendoza shared a photo today showcasing the product currently being harvested in the Gulf of Santa Clara, Sonora.

Here is his photo and caption: "This is what a panga with 5 tons of cannonball jellyfish looks like."

It's Stingray Season Again!

Stingray General Facts:

Habitat: Stingrays are typically found in shallow coastal waters and estuaries. They often bury themselves in the sand or hide in mud to camouflage themselves from predators.

Physical Characteristics: These flat-bodied fish have a distinctive diamond-shaped body with a long, whip-like tail. The tail ends in a barbed spine (stinger) that is capable of delivering a painful sting.

Defense Mechanism: Stingrays use their venomous spines defensively when threatened or accidentally stepped on by humans. The venom, while rarely fatal, can cause pain, swelling, and tissue damage.

Behavior: Generally docile, stingrays are not aggressive towards humans but may sting defensively if provoked or inadvertently disturbed.

Tips to Avoid Stingray Stings:

Shuffle, Don't Stomp: When walking in shallow waters where stingrays may be present, shuffle your feet along the sand rather than taking big steps. This motion alerts stingrays of your presence and gives them time to move away.

Water Visibility: Avoid wading in murky or cloudy waters where visibility is low, as this increases the likelihood of accidentally stepping on a stingray.

Heed Warning Signs: Pay attention to warning signs posted at beaches that indicate the presence of stingrays or other marine hazards. These signs are placed in areas where encounters are more likely.

Avoid Touching Marine Life: Refrain from touching or disturbing stingrays, as this may provoke defensive behavior. Observing them from a safe distance is recommended.

Protective Footwear: If you're particularly concerned about stingrays or plan to spend a lot of time in the water, consider wearing protective footwear such as water shoes or reef walkers.

Immediate Action if Stung: If stung, rinse the affected area with seawater to remove any debris, apply hot water (not scalding) to the wound to help alleviate pain, and seek medical attention promptly, especially if symptoms worsen or if the sting is near sensitive areas like the chest or face.

By understanding stingray behavior and taking precautions, beachgoers can enjoy the ocean safely while minimizing the risk of stingray encounters.

CDC Announces New Rules for Transporting Dogs from Mexico to the U.S.

Starting August 1, 2024, all dogs traveling to the U.S., including those returning from Mexico, must be over six months old and microchipped. The microchip must be ISO compatible and documented in the dog’s rabies vaccination and other records.

Impact on Dog Lovers

This new rule may come as a surprise to dog lovers who travel regularly with their pets for leisure, sports, or shows. Those bringing dogs from Mexico and other countries for adoption will be particularly affected.

Why the U.S. is Changing the Rules

The CDC estimates that nearly one million dogs are imported into the U.S. annually, with about a quarter crossing by land. At least 100,000 of these dogs are from countries considered a rabies risk. Concerns about rabies-infected dogs entering the country have prompted these significant changes.

A report by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, titled "Control of Communicable Diseases; Foreign Quarantine: Importation of Dogs and Cats," highlighted several incidents that led to the rule changes:

2019: The importation of a rabid dog cost over $400,000 in public health investigations and post-exposure rabies treatments for those who had contact with the dog.

2020: There was a 52% increase in dogs denied entry due to fraudulent documentation.

2021: A rescue organization imported 33 dogs and one cat from Azerbaijan. Despite valid-looking rabies vaccination documents, one dog developed rabies symptoms three days after arrival. The other animals were quickly dispersed across nine states, resulting in a massive public health investigation. Eighteen people received rabies treatment, and exposed animals were quarantined for 45 days to six months and re-vaccinated.

These incidents are costly, stressful, and dangerous. On average, for every rabid dog imported, about 20 people need prophylactic treatment and 21 dogs require treatment, vaccination, or quarantine.

Puerto Peñasco Government Commemorates the 50th Anniversary of the Puerto Peñasco Volunteer Fire Department

Mayor Jorge Pivac, along with public officials, special guests, and Mr. Héctor Rivera Hernandez, the first Commander and Founder of the Puerto Peñasco Volunteer Fire Department, led the ceremony commemorating the 50th Anniversary (1974-2024) of this emergency institution.

The ceremony took place in the municipal civic auditorium, where a well-deserved tribute and recognition were given to founding firefighters, commanders, and directors of the department, as well as benefactors and board members, in the presence of family and friends. Following this, a commemorative plaque was unveiled at the central fire station.

Honored Founding Firefighters:

Alfonso Sánchez Miranda

Héctor Rivera Hernández

Ramón Bustamante Gradillas

Rubén Darío Soto Figueroa

Héctor Miquirray Pasos

Norberto Pino Nogales

Eduardo Heredia Ramírez

Rogelio Castillo Acosta

Pablo Epifanio Espinoza Suastegui

Miguel Ángel Sarabia Cruz

Jesús Cota Miranda

Beach Rules

We warmly welcome everyone to come and enjoy our beautiful beaches, but we do ask that you please respect them and take good care of them so that people can continue to visit and enjoy our wonderful town and beaches for years and years to come. Above is a short list of rules to follow when visiting the many Rocky Point beaches. Basically, the same type rules that you have heard time and again in the USA: Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints, kill nothing but time.

Meet the Sonoran's Family of Beachfront Resorts

TAU Continues Impressive Work Helping Tourists and Residents Safely enjoy Rocky Point's Beaches

In response to the high influx of tourists during the summer season, with an expected presence of over half a million visitors in Puerto Peñasco, the Auxiliary Tourism Unit continues its patrols along beaches, sand dunes, and high-traffic areas to provide assistance, information, or aid in emergencies.

Carlos Bravo Martínez, director of the Auxiliary Tourism Unit of Puerto Peñasco, reported that just in recent days, they assisted 22 people on the beaches for injuries caused by stingrays or jellyfish stings, and helped 20 people with disabilities access the beach using beach wheelchairs.

He noted that there has been an increase in beachgoers encountering stingrays and jellyfish due to the hot weather. Bravo Martínez explained that many of these incidents occur because tourists are unaware of the dangers posed by these marine animals, despite warning signs posted at the most frequented beaches.

Fortunately, he added, the cases they have attended to have not been severe, and most have been resolved without major issues or serious harm to the affected swimmers.

The head of the Auxiliary Tourism Unit reiterated the noticeable rise in stingray incidents on Puerto Peñasco beaches, underscoring the critical need to enhance precautionary measures and alert beachgoers about the risks of contact with these marine creatures.

Additionally, he reported that 3,248 coolers were inspected to prevent glass bottles from being brought onto the beaches, and over 1,400 general community good-deed services were provided. They also supported traffic management at tourist hotspots, among other actions.

Chocolate Tres Leches Cake

Chocolate Tres Leches cake is a supremely juicy and indulgent treat. The cake, soaked in a liter of a blend of milks, has risen into the moist cake mecca, becoming one of the favorite choices for generations.

The history of this magical cake dates back to the 19th century, when milk-soaked cake recipes began appearing in European cookbooks, particularly in England. These early versions likely influenced the creation of tres leches in Latin America. Surprisingly, Nestlé played a significant role in popularizing the cake in the 1940s by including a tres leches recipe on the labels of its evaporated and condensed milk products distributed in Latin America.

I am excited to share one of their favorite versions of tres leches: a recipe featuring cocoa powder and a secret ingredient, espresso.

Chocolate Tres Leches with Espresso

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup cocoa powder

1 tablespoon espresso powder

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

5 large eggs, separated

1 cup granulated sugar, divided

1/3 cup whole milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Tres Leches Mixture:

1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk

1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 shot of espresso

For the Topping:

1 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cocoa powder, for dusting

Instructions:

Preheat and Prepare:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Beat Egg Yolks:

In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with 3/4 cup of the granulated sugar until thick and pale yellow.

Add the milk and vanilla extract; mix until combined.

Beat Egg Whites:

In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form.

Gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.

Combine:

Gently fold the flour mixture into the egg yolk mixture until just combined.

Carefully fold in the beaten egg whites until no white streaks remain.

Bake:

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Prepare the Tres Leches Mixture:

In a large measuring cup or bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and espresso until well combined.

Soak the Cake:

Once the cake has cooled, pierce the surface with a fork all over.

Slowly pour the tres leches mixture over the cake, ensuring the entire surface is covered. The cake will absorb the liquid.

Chill:

Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to soak up the tres leches mixture.

Make the Topping:

In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

Serve:

Spread the whipped cream frosting over the cake.

Dust generously with cocoa powder before serving.

This chocolate tres leches cake with espresso is poised to become one of your new favorite desserts, perfect for sharing on any occasion.

24 Smiles vs. 3: The Real Difference Between Mexico and the US

Is Mexico a happy country? For myself and those who have spent years living here, safety and smiles define the experience. This perspective often contrasts sharply with common misconceptions A small experiment illustrates this beautifully.

A wellness coach from Vermont, who specializes in helping women with autoimmune issues, proposed an experiment inspired by a study on how smiling enhances mood. The experiment was simple: visit a supermarket and smile at everyone encountered. The coach in Vermont and a friend in Cozumel, Mexico, aimed to see how many smiles would be returned and how it would affect their moods.

The results highlighted a stark difference. In Cozumel, 24 smiles, 2 handholds, a couple of hugs, and even a kiss from a sweet grandmother who offered a blessing were received. The warmth of the Mexican people was evident. In Vermont, however, only three smiles were returned, with most people avoiding eye contact.

These findings might surprise some, but for those familiar with Mexico, it’s a familiar story. The most common question asked by those considering moving to Mexico is, “Is Mexico safe?” For many, including single women who live and travel alone, the answer is yes—with common sense precautions. The reality is, walking down a dark alley while drunk at 2 AM is risky anywhere in the world.

The experience of living in Mexico is overwhelmingly positive. The warmth and friendliness of the locals are daily delights. This piece aims to dispel the myth of Mexico being unsafe.

The sensationalism of the 24-hour news cycle often skews perceptions. While some may imagine cartel shootouts, that is just not the case in the vast majority of the country, and certainly not in Rocky Point. It’s also important to remember that Mexico is vast, with 31 states (excluding Mexico City, which isn't technically a state). The majority of the country is far removed from any "Wild West" imagery. Communities across Mexico are filled with locals who readily offer genuine smiles and assistance, creating a tangible sense of happiness.

First-hand experiences abound, showcasing the kindness and warmth of the Mexican people. From bus drivers sharing their lunch to grandmothers giving away parsley for recipes, acts of kindness are a daily occurrence.

One particular story stands out: recently, a man chased a woman down the street to return a 200 peso note she dropped in the Super Ley supermarket. Laden with heavy bags, he jogged to catch up and return her money, all with a big smile. This kind of kindness and honesty is one reason why I choose to live in Mexico.

Mexico is one of the top countries worldwide for expats, with millions from around the globe calling it home. Safety and smiles are the essence of Mexico, making it one of the happiest countries for those who have experienced its warmth and hospitality firsthand.

Arizona Fun Facts

Here are 64 interesting facts you might not have known.

1. Arizona has 3,928 mountain peaks and summits, more mountains than any one of the other Mountain States (Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming).

2. All New England, plus the state of Pennsylvania would fit inside Arizona.

3. Arizona became the 48th state and last of the contiguous states on February 14, 1912.

4. Arizona's disparate climate can yie7ld both the highest temperature across the nation and the lowest temperature across the nation in the same day.

5. There are more wilderness areas in Arizona than in the entire Midwest. Arizona alone has 90 wilderness areas, while the Midwest has 50.

6. Arizona has 26 peaks that are more than 10,000 feet in elevation.

7. Arizona has the largest contiguous stand of Ponderosa pines in the world stretching from near Flagstaff along the Mogollon Rim to the White Mountains region.

8. Yuma, Arizona is the country's highest producer of winter vegetables, especially lettuce.

9. Arizona is the 6th largest state in the nation, covering 113,909 square miles.

10. Out of all the states in the U.S., Arizona has the largest percentage of its land designated as Indian lands.

11. The Five C's of Arizona's economy are: Cattle, Copper, Citrus, Cotton, and Climate.

12. More copper is mined in Arizona than all the other states combined, and the Morenci Mine is the largest copper producer in all of North America.

13. Clark Gable and Carole Lombard, two of the most prominent movie stars of Hollywood's Golden Age, were married on March 18, 1939, in Kingman, Arizona.

14. Covering 18,608 sq. miles, Coconino County is the second largest county by land area in the 48 contiguous United States.(San Bernardino County in California is the largest).

15. The world's largest solar telescope is located at Kitt Peak National Observatory in Sells, Arizona.

16. Bisbee, Arizona is known as the Queen of the Copper Mines because during its mining heyday it produced nearly 25 percent of the world's copper and was the largest city in the Southwest between Saint Louis and San Francisco.

17. Billy the Kid killed his first man, Windy Cahill, in Bonita, Arizona.

18. Arizona grows enough cotton each year to make more than one pair of jeans for every person in the United States.

19. Famous labor leader and activist Cesar Chavez was born in Yuma.

20. In 1912, President William Howard Taft was ready to make Arizona a state on February 12, but it was Lincoln's birthday. The next day, the 13th, was considered bad luck so they waited until the following day. That' how Arizona became known as the Valentine State.

21. When England's famous London Bridge was replaced in the 1960s, the original was purchased, dismantled, shipped stone by stone and reconstructed in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, where it still stands today.

22. Mount Lemmon, Tucson, in the Santa Catalina Mountains, is the southernmost ski resort in the United States.

23. Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch in Picacho, Arizona is the largest privately-owned ostrich ranch in the world outside South Africa.

24. If you cut down a protected species of cactus in Arizona, you could spend more than a year in prison.

25. The world's largest to-scale collection of miniature airplane models is housed at the library at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, Arizona.

26. The only place in the country where mail is delivered by mule is the village of Supai, located at the bottom of the Grand Canyon.

27. Located on Arizona's western border, Parker Dam is the deepest dam in the world at 320 feet.

28. South Mountain Park/Preserve in Phoenix is the largest municipal park in the country.

29. Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station, located about 55 miles west of Phoenix, generates more electricity than any other U.S. power plant.

30. Oraibi, a Hopi village located in Navajo County, Arizona, dates back to before A.D. 1200 and is reputed to be the oldest continuously inhabited community in America.

31. Built by Del Webb in 1960, Sun City, Arizona was the first 55-plus active adult retirement community in the country.

32. Petrified wood is the official state fossil. The Petrified Forest in northeastern Arizona contains America's largest deposits of petrified wood.

33. Many of the founders of San Francisco in 1776 were Spanish colonists from Tubac, Arizona.

34. Phoenix originated in 1866 as a hay camp to supply military post Camp McDowell.

35. Rainfall averages for Arizona range from less than three inches in the deserts to more than 30 inches per year in the mountains.

36. Rising to a height of 12,643 feet, Mount Humphreys north of Flagstaff is the state's highest mountain.

37. Roadrunners are not just in cartoons! In Arizona, you'll see them running up to 17-mph away from their enemies.

38. The Saguaro cactus is the largest cactus found in the U.S. It can grow as high as a five-story building and is native to the Sonoran Desert, which stretches across southern Arizona.

39. Sandra Day O'Connor, the first woman appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court, grew up on a large family ranch near Duncan, Arizona.

40. The best-preserved meteor crater in the world is located near Winslow, Arizona.

41. The average state elevation is 4,000 feet.

42. The Navajo Nation spans 27,000 square miles across the states of Utah, Arizona and New Mexico, but its capital is seated in Window Rock, Arizona.

43. The amount of copper utilized to make the copper dome atop Arizona's Capitol building is equivalent to the amount used in 4.8 million pennies.

44. Near Yuma, the Colorado River's elevation dips to 70 feet above sea level, making it the lowest point in the state.

45. The geographic center of Arizona is 55 miles southeast of Prescott near the community of Mayer.

46. You could pile four 1,300-foot skyscrapers on top of each other and they still would not reach the rim of the Grand Canyon.

47. The hottest temperature recorded in Arizona was 128 degrees at Lake Havasu City on June 29, 1994

48. The coldest temperature recorded in Arizona was 40 degrees below zero at Hawley Lake on January 7, 1971.

49. A saguaro cactus can store up to nine tons of water.

50. The state of Massachusetts could fit inside Maricopa County (9,922 sq. miles).

51. The westernmost battle of the Civil War was fought at Picacho Pass on April 15, 1862 near Picacho Peak in Pinal County.

52. There are 11.2 million acres of National Forest in Arizona, and one-fourth of the state forested.

53. Wyatt Earp was neither the town marshal nor the sheriff in Tombstone at the time of the shoot-out at the O..K. Corral. His brother Virgil was the town marshal.

54. On June 6, 1936, the first barrel of tequila produced in the United States rolled off the production line in Nogales, Arizona.

55. The Sonoran Desert is the most biologically diverse desert in North America.

56. Bisbee is the Nation's Southernmost mile-high city.

57. The two largest man-made lakes in the U.S. are Lake Mead and Lake Powell, both located in Arizona.

58. The longest remaining intact section of Route 66 can be found in Arizona and runs from Seligman to Topock, a total of 157 unbroken miles.

59. The 13 stripes on the Arizona flag represent the 13 original colonies of the United States.

60. The negotiations for Geronimo's final surrender took place in Skeleton Canyon, near present day Douglas, Arizona, in 1886.

61. Prescott, Arizona is home to the world's oldest rodeo, and Payson, Arizona is home to the world's oldest continuous rodeo, both of which date back to the 1880's.

62. Kartchner Caverns, near Benson, Arizona, is a massive limestone cave with 13,000 feet of passages, two rooms as long as football fields, and one of the world's longest soda straw stalactites: measuring 21 feet 3 inches.

63. You can carry a loaded firearm on your person, no permit required.

64. Arizona has one of the lowest crime rates in the U.S.A.