Phoenix

Established in 1881, Phoenix is the 5th largest city in the United States, and ranks as one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation. Visitors, residents and businesses find Phoenix offers just about everything in the way of sports, recreation, arts, culture, dining, lodging and financial opportunities. Ranging over tens of thousands of acres, the Phoenix mountain and desert preserves offer something for everyone, whether on foot, mountain bike or horseback. Some key outdoor spots include Camelback Mountain, Piestewa Peak/Dreamy Draw and Papago Park.

Some of Phoenix's popular attractions are the Arizona Science Center, the Heard Museum, the Desert Botanical Garden, Chase Field, The Phoenix Zoo and the Phoenix Art Museum. Sports fans can be found watching the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field, the Phoenix Suns at US Airways Center and the Phoenix Coyotes at the Glendale Sports Arena.

Higher education is also attracting new residents and businesses to Phoenix. According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, in 2005 Arizona State University grew significantly, and now has the largest enrollment in the United States. ASU offers an array of academic programs that include nationally ranked business, liberal arts and sciences, law, health care, engineering and fine arts colleges; and generates business and academic partnerships that have enhanced the economic and community development in the City of Phoenix. Some of Phoenix's major employers and industries are high tech, aerospace and service industries, which make up the large portion of the economic base of Phoenix. Key employers include Banner Health, PetsMart, Mayo Clinic, Honeywell, American Express, JPMorgan Chase, Apollo Group, Phelps Dodge and Wells Fargo.

Phoenix hosts a variety of annual events and performances that illustrate its diverse culture including the Phoenix Symphony, the Hispanic Heritage Festival, Arizona State Fair, PGA FBR Open Golf Tournament, Fiesta Bowl, and First Friday's Artwalk (in Downtown Phoenix). Residents and visitors find Phoenix to be the ideal desert oasis with a metropolitan flavor.