Do you have interesting ways to say things in your little corner of the world? Arizona does, too. Have no fear, I’ve put together a little cheat sheet for you so you can instantly sound like a true Arizonan even if you have a Brooklyn accent when you come to the 101st FMCA Rally in Tucson.
Saguaro – Suh-waar-oh
The iconic symbol of the state stands majestically in the desert. The saguaro flower that blooms in late spring is the state flower.
Prescott – Press-kit
Think Presskit like a bisquit. Here’s a fun fact: Prescott was the original capital when Arizona was a territory before it was moved to Phoenix in 1889. I’m so used to the Arizona way to say it that when Dak Prescott shot to fame with the Dallas Cowboys, hearing the announcers say his name sounded so strange.
Cholla – Choy-ah
The cholla cactus is also called jumping cactus. You don’t want to get too close. Now, the cactus doesn’t really jump. They detach easily from the main plant and hook into your shoes and/or clothing. Their spines are barbed, like a fish hook and are painful to remove. The cactus may look like a fuzzy teddy bear but let me tell you, they sure aren’t cuddly like one!
Canyon de Chelly – Can-yun duh-shay
Located in Northeast Arizona, this has been a National Monument since 1931.
Mogollon Rim – Mog-ee-yun (long o)
This area is heaven on earth for valley dwellers the summer heat. The rim itself is a geological feature that cuts across the state for over 200 miles and forms the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau. The higher altitude means lower daytime temps and glorious summer rain storms.
Hualapai – Wa-la-peye
The Hualapai are an Indian Tribe in the Northwestern part of the state along the Grand Canyon.
Tohono O’Odham – Taw-haw-naw aw-aw-dham
An Indian Reservation close to Tucson primarily in Southern Arizona that extends into the northern Mexico state of Sonora.
Tlaquepaque – Tlah-keh-pah-keh
This is a cute little arts and shopping village in Sedona on the bank of Oak Creek. If you’re in Sedona in May, check out the chili cook-off.
Thank goodness Sedona is easy to say!