OUR MAIN STREET

RecentlyParade Magazine encouraged its readers to brag about their hometown main street. The following is what I submitted about Yuma's Main Street:

Just in time for the 100th birthday of Yuma, Arizona, it's Main Street is coming back to life. It is the site of many activities participated in by both the full time residents of the desert city as well as the 80,000 visitors from other parts of the country and Canada who spend the winter months here. Year round, Main Street is the site of a variety of special events such as a Farmer’s Market, the Medjool Date Festival, Spirit of Yuma Festival,Yuma River Daze and other events celebrating Yuma's distinction as "Winter Vegetable Capital of the World". Also drawing people downtown is the Historic Yuma Theater, a beautifully restored 1930s theater featuring both local talent and traveling shows. Next to the theater is the Yuma Art Center spotlighting local artists. Across the street from these two cultural sites is another draw for visitors, Lute's Casino, which is a eclectic eating place where everyone brings their out of town guests. In recent years Main Street has grown with the addition of small cafes and bars making for an exciting place to spend an evening. Near Main Street are some of the sites connected with Yuma's role as "Gateway to the Southwest". These include Yuma Crossing where those exploring the area crossed the Colorado River, the Ocean-to-Ocean Bridge which was the first river crossing in the southern U.S. and the Yuma Territorial Prison, a unique historical museum. The history of the city and area are also highlighted at the nearby Sanquinetti House Museum. All in all, our Main Street is a place to have fun, learn history, enjoy good fellowship and just enjoy the 340 days of bright sunshine throughout the year.