On February 14th, 1912, Arizona become the 48th and last of the contiguous United States.  Located in the southwestern United States, it is noted for its desert climate, exceptionally hot summers and mild winters.  The exception is Arizona's high country, featuring pine forests and mountain ranges wth cool weather even in summer months.  Arizona is bordered by Utah, New Mexico, Mexico, and, across the Colorado River, Nevada and California. Area, 113,909 sq mi (295,024 sq km). Pop. (2005) 6,044,985 a 17.8% increase since the 2000 census. Capital and largest city, Phoenix. Nickname,Grand Canyon State, Copper State. Motto,Ditat Deus [God Enriches]. State bird,cactus wren. State flower, blossom of the saguaro cactus. State tree,paloverde. The state's principal crops are cotton, lettuce, cauliflower, broccoli, and sorghum. Cattle, calves, and dairy goods are, however, the most valuable Arizona farm products. Manufacturing is the leading economic activity, with electronics, printing and publishing, processed foods, and aerospace and transportation leading sectors. High-technology research and development, communications, and service industries are also important, as are construction  and tourism. Military facilities contributing to Arizona's economy include Fort Huachuca, Luke and Davis-Monthan air force bases, and the Yuma Proving Grounds. Testing and training with military aircraft and desert storage of commercial and military planes are both major undertakings.  And, of course, tourism. Arizona abounds in minerals. Copper is the state's most valuable mineral; Arizona leads the nation in production. Other leading resources are molybdenum, sand, gravel, and cement. Between 1940 and 1960, Arizona's population increased more than 100%, and since then growth has continued. By the 2000 census the cumulative increase since 1940 amounted to more than 1000%, and today Arizona is ranked among the fastest growing states in the nation, second only to Florida. Employment, especially in the Phoenix-Mesa metro area, continues to rank very high compared to other US cities.   In 2006, the area accounted for 4.8% of all US job growth.  That's 1 out of every 21 jobs created!