As a kid, I grew up in the great state of Arizona.  My family moved to Phoenix from Huntsville, Alabama, while I was half way through fourth grade in elementary school.  While there was a lot to get used to,  both weather wise and culturally (every town and state has its own vibe, after all), I consider Phoenix my adoptive hometown, second only to my  birthplace, Maryville, Tennessee.  They both hold very special places in my heart.

As I write this, my adoptive home state has received a lot of attention, both positive and negative, with the recent signing of a bill that addresses some of the very real problem the state has with illegal immigration. I watched with somewhat sad amusement the histrionics demonstrated on both sides of the controversy. 

I have an opinion on the matter and it’s actually based on me having read the bill. However, this is not the place to discuss such things.  There are much better websites than Boomerocity to discuss such important matters.

I will say this: I love the state of Arizona and its people with all of my heart.  It’s a great state and I have many incredible memories of my 20 years there.  Over the years I have gone there every chance I get, and will continue to do so.

Is the state perfect?  No (Well, maybe it’s a little more perfect because I moved away). But, then, neither are the people, cities, or states that are self-righteously boycotting the state.  I seem to remember having read in the papers where they have their own issues with racist behavior.  I also seem to remember reading a wise saying about splinters and logs in people’s eyes.  Maybe I’m mistaken.

In the mean time, I still love the Grand Canyon State and all the people in it, both legal and illegal.