Arizona Illustrated

Charles Mingus is one of the most influential figures in 20th-century American music. He was born in Nogales, AZ to a father who was a Buffalo Soldier stationed at Camp Little in 1922. He later became known as a virtuoso jazz bass player, band leader, and composer. Although Mingus' time in Nogales was brief, his Southern Arizona roots are still a sense of pride and celebration for the community. His 100th birthday was celebrated with concerts in Phoenix, Tucson, and Nogales by the quintet Mingus Dynasty before being finalized with the unveiling of the Charles Mingus Memorial in Nogales. History comes to life in an iconic building that was designed in 1928 and continues to serve the community. The Pima County Historic Courthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places but is finding new uses after a renovation project that began years ago. It is one of the favorite places for Tucson architect Rosemary Bright. As part of the recurring series about recommended plants for our region, we hear about the desert ironwood, Olneya tesota, which is a tough and essential tree in the Sonoran Desert. Among other attributes, the ironwood trees provide shade, habitat, and nutrition to plant and animal species in our region. Cocina La Ley has been a Nogales, Arizona staple since German Larios founded the restaurant in 1994. It has been in the family ever since, serving up delicious and fresh tacos and soups for nogaleños and people passing through the city. What is the key to Larios’ success? Use fresh ingredients, make the customers feel at home, and make it an unforgettably delicious dining experience!