Richard Haddad/Roundup

Cynthia and Brianna Espinoza
Walking out of the Sawmill Theatre on a cool afternoon, the Espinoza sisters share a bond of sisterhood along with their feelings about their new home. Originally a Phoenix family, the Espinozas now live in Payson. "I like living here much better because it's not as hot as in Phoenix," said 12-year-old Cynthia. "When we moved here, I got to meet lots of new people and make more friends." "We love to go to the river," said 10-year-old Brianna. "We swim, jump off the rocks, swing and climb." The Espinozas represent a growing number of young families moving north to Rim Country not only to escape the heat, but also in search of a place where children can feel safe and be a part of the community.