housing photo credits here by Patricia Bathurst T he Five Cs — that was the Arizona mantra from early days. Those Cs stood for copper, citrus, cotton, cattle and climate, in some ways the very essence of the state, as well as its economy. Today, it might be said there's another C being added throughout Valley cities. This one will stand for culture. Cities across the Valley of the Sun are taking stock of what they offer residents and even how they offer it. It's about definition, establishing the sense of place that connects people to their own community. Cities are reconsidering the balances among residential and business development, development and infrastructure, people and public services, people and cultural resources. Cities offer ' personality' Every city and town across the Valley has a different feel, a different vibe — a different perspective. And every city and town wants to maintain its unique attitude, and also evolve to meet both the needs and expectations of Arizona's ever- growing population. It used to be said that retail followed rooftops. Today, many Valley cities find that retail — and commercial develop-ment, too — is coming before the roof-tops. Much of the retail is exceptionally high- end, many new businesses are high-tech, and there are growing opportunities in health care. While there's an increasingly diverse business community helping to create a 21st century economy, there are also opportunities in the arts, entertainment and sports that will shape each city's sense of place and community in different ways. Each city is approaching these new opportunities and changes a little differently, giving the Valley of the Sun an increasingly rich fabric of choices and possibilities — for work, play and lifestyle. Even better, home prices throughout the Valley today offer buyers exceptional value. As communities make strides in crafting more singular identities and enhancing amenities, home buyers will see excellent opportunities to find a home in a community offering them a uniquely Arizona version of a 21st century lifestyle. Home Sweet Home Valley's cities continue evolution in services and development to enhance 21st century lifestyles 36 2009 GREATER PHOENIX ULTIMATE GUIDE TO LIVING HERE housing