1. Arizona became a state on February 14, 1912, but February 24 is also an important date in Arizona's statehood history. On this day in 1913, the first legislature of the state of Arizona convened in the brand new state capitol building in Phoenix, marking an important milestone in the state's development.

2. On February 24, 1937, the historic Oatman Hotel was destroyed by fire. The hotel had been a popular stopover for travelers along Route 66 and was famous for its connection to the wild burros that roamed the nearby hills. The hotel was eventually rebuilt and still stands today as a popular tourist attraction.

3. Arizona's long and storied mining history is also tied to February 24. On this date in 1884, a group of silver miners struck it rich in Tombstone, Arizona, leading to a new wave of mining activity in the area. This event helped cement Tombstone's place in the history of the American West.

4. February 24, 1997, saw the dedication of the Clinton P. Anderson Cancer Center at the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center in Albuquerque. The center was named in honor of the former senator from New Mexico and is one of the leading cancer research institutions in the Southwest.

5. Finally, February 24 is also National Tortilla Chip Day, a celebration of one of the Southwest's most beloved snacks. Whether consumed on their own or as the foundation for a tasty plate of nachos, tortilla chips are a staple of Arizona cuisine and are enjoyed by people all over the world.