The Mexican Connection

The governor had no official business in Mexico the day he arrived. And none the next day, a Friday. According to his daily calendar, he met with Governor Beltrones for 30 minutes on Saturday morning over coffee. Saturday evening called for a casual dinner at the house with Juan Alberto Gutierrez, Beltrones' chief of staff, and Gutierrez's wife.

Meanwhile, the Symington family enjoyed all the amenities of beachfront living, thanks to Governor Beltrones and the people of Sonora.

Symington and his family remained over Saturday night, heading back to Phoenix at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday aboard the state aircraft. Other than the coffee and the dinner, state records make no mention of official business being conducted during the governor's stay. Symington reported that no state expenses had been incurred during the trip.

DPS records show the state plane made at least two round trips between Phoenix and Guaymas while shuttling Arizona's first family on its Mexican minivacation.

The cost to taxpayers: $3,016.