It seems almost predestined that Fred DuVal would seek a life in public service.

Arizona is returning to its gold rush roots with a bill that would make precious metals legal currency.

Barry Goldwater was born three years before Arizona became a state. Who could have imagined that this toddler would become the man most associated with the Grand Canyon State? A five-term U.S. senator and the Republican presidential candidate in 1964, he epitomized the ruggedness of the Wild West and loved the state, with its magnificent vistas, as much as anyone possibly could.

From the day that Arizona became a state on Feb. 14, 1912, its boundaries have remained unchanged, but if not for some political gamesmanship, today’s Grand Canyon State would have had a remarkably different portrait.

Arizona Republican National Committeeman Bruce Ash announced that he will seek the state GOP chairmanship, and attorney Ron Carmichael said he will announce soon as well.

At the gala celebration for the opening of the newly constructed, $2.5 million ($29.6 million when adjusted for inflation), Hotel Westward Ho, recently elected Gov. John C. Phillips was asked to speak. He said, "I am not a great man and I have never done great things. With your friendship and cooperation and the assistance of Divine Providence, however, I sincerely hope that I will make you a good governor."