Pick-ups Rule in T-Town (a.k.a Boy's Town)

One of the things you quickly notice about Tucson is that there are a lot of pick-up trucks around town; and dogs and kids ride in the back, even on the hottest days.  Tucson is where 1967 Ford 150 pick-up trucks come to retire.  I have never seen so many in one place before.  Some have been lovingly restored with vintage turquoise and white paint jobs.  Others wear their years proudly.  More than a few, I am sure, are driven by their original owners. 

Some times you might spot a pick-up loaded to the gills with an assortment of furniture and household goods. It seems if you own a pick-up, some believe there is no reason to rent a moving trucking to protect your belongings while in transit.  So what if it's windy, dusty, raining or the hot sun is beating down on your stuff.   Who cares if a few items accidentally fall off the back of your truck as you bump along local roads and highways.  Pick-ups are also handy for hauling your horse and ATV trailers.

Something else that is quite common in these parts is the number of people riding motorcycles sans helmets. In the state of AZ, if you are over 18, you are old enough to make your own risk/reward decision about whether or not you think it is a good idea to ride with a helmet.  Besides, it's a pain to tie back and tuck up that long graying mane of hair into a motorcycle helmet. 

A British woman I know who moved here with her husband from California, calls Tucson a "Boys Town."  I think it is a good description.  There are ample things about this town that guys just find so fascinating and about which most women just shrug and roll their eyes.   Pick-ups are one; then there is the Pima Air and Space Museum, the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base and the Boneyard of retired military aircraft.  The Boneyard has even appeared in its share movies. 

A cowboy attitude remains strong in this part of the southwest.  There are several shooting ranges scattered across town where guys can spend a few hours at target practice.  While some men may prefer to practice their golf swings at a local golf club, many here prefer to hang with their buddies at the shooting range. Don't be surprised to see families at the shooting range.  Dad's proudly coaching their young sons and daughters with their new junior sized rifles.  I never met a ten-year old girl with a pink rifle until Jim took me to the Pima County shooting range. Oh, yes, pink cowgirl boots and hat often complete the look.


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