April 1, 2008
About the Cover
April 1, 2008
A water jug capturing reflected sunlight drew attention one morning during a routine jog on the ridge top. On closer inspection, a large camp was discovered just over a hill from our house. Camp remains of backpacks, discarded clothing, food, trash, and water jugs were scattered along a protected, well-hidden draw. My husband Keith and I discovered this second camp on our land and it was noticeably different from the previous camp. Women crossers were included in this group, evidenced by clothing, personal items and female debris.
The German Vanguard in Southern Arizona
April 1, 2008
Sometimes it is good to take a different perspective on history, so as to see things in a new light. It may not be well known that the largest ethnic group (17%) in the United States claims German ancestry. So it is not surprising that persons with German origins were in the vanguard of exploration and development in the Pimería Alta or what we now call Southern Arizona and Northern Sonora.
Backcountry Almanac
April 1, 2008
Creare Diem!
Aries
April 1, 2008
The zodiacal year opens on the first day of spring under Aries, the sign of the Ram. Red hot and unstoppable, Aries is the fire of birth, springtime and all new beginnings. It is the spark of spirit that sets life in motion. Those born under this exuberant sign are filled with adventure, optimism, and the fire of new life.
The Border Towers: Lessons Relearned
April 1, 2008
A year ago at this time, most media and many people became entranced by the Department of Homeland Security and Boeing’s technological solution to securing this country’s borders. The SBInet’s Project 28 long range surveillance towers were rising on lands to the south and west of Arivaca. At community meetings, Boeing and DHS told us that P28 would allow them to detect, identify and track anyone crossing the border and the towers would stretch across Arizona by the end of 2008. Technology was coming to the rescue and would effectively and efficiently relieve us of the need to deal with border issues.