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Community Profile

Stoney Ward Teaches Hydroponic Gardening Through Spirit of the Canyon

April 2, 2022 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Team-building and healthy eating are part of his curriculum.

Changing lives one plant at a time,” is the heart and goal of Spirit of the Canyon owner Stoney Ward, who has had a vision for hydroponic gardening since moving to Grand Canyon Junction (also known as Valle) four years ago.

“I want to show people, especially school children, how to be healthier and how growing healthy foods such as microgreens is tasty, inexpensive and fast,” said Ward.

Ward’s vision has mushroomed into teaching 7th, 8th and 9th graders at Grand Canyon School, where students learn about several forms of hydroponics along with different systems such as microgreens and self-wicking systems with soil.

“My ultimate goal is to teach students how they can grow their own food no matter where they live and use less water than traditional farming,” said Ward. “I believe that instructing these kids about hydroponics and urban farming will help them prepare for their futures by helping them realize they can grow their own food, in their own space, especially during critical times such as climate change, pandemics, etc.”

“I think it’s really interesting and I think it’s really important for the future and to help the community in many ways,” said 7th grader Ronan Alvarez, 13, “I’m eating better now and I appreciate fresh vegetables. I want to grow microgreens at home.”

On the menu in Ward’s classes are sunflowers, peas and broccoli microgreens, along with several varieties of lettuce. Microgreen seeds are harvested at a very young stage and the sprouts mimic the flavor of the full-grown vegetable. “They are very nutritious,” he said.

Employed as general manager of Buck Wild Hummer Tours in Tusayan, Ward moved to Grand Canyon Junction from Las Vegas where he owned an outdoor recreation company. “I’ve worked with thousands of kids, teaching them survival courses, team building, zipline, ropes courses and whitewater rafting at Big Rock Candy Mountain Resort.”

For good measure, Ward says he likes to incorporate team building into his lessons. “No matter what their future job is, team building helps them learn how to work together as a team to accomplish their goals.”

Starting each class with breathing exercises is also a part of Ward’s instruction. “I’ve encountered some youth who seem pretty listless and uninspired. This could be partly due to the past two years of life during a pandemic and the uncertainty in their lives. Plus, kids spend a lot of time on their devices, [they have] unhealthy eating habits and not enough time doing hands-on tasks and exercise. Oxygen is good.”

“Mr. Ward has amazing energy and that’s a really great starting point, especially for middle school students,” said Grand Canyon School science/environmental science instructor Adrian Alvarez. “The students are really excited to see how fast the growing process is for microgreens. The other thing they’re really excited about with hydroponics is the low usage of water. A lot of us live in rural areas, so we know the importance of protecting our water, as many of us haul water to our homes.”

The students also have shown a lot of interest in the nutritional value of microgreens and how they can incorporate this into their diets, said Alvarez. “They are really excited to share this experience with their families and the community at large.”

As the students grow plants, they will be donating them to local food banks. “They will also be hosting a Farmers Market to bring healthy and organic produce to the community,” said Ward.

Spirit of the Canyon has gained support from the Grand Canyon Rotary Club with a generous donation. “Our kids are our future and more education about hydroponics is good for our community and I’m really glad about Stoney’s program with the kids. Fresh, pure organic vegetables and fruits and water conservation is important,” said Grand Canyon Rotary Club President Clayann Cook.

Located in Grand Canyon Junction, Ward established and constructed Spirit of the Canyon hydroponics ranch last May. “My plans are to have the students who are involved in this project come out to see the ranch and experience hydroponic farming first-hand.”

Ward plans to work with other farmers in the area and expand his educational program. “Once the foundation is set here at Grand Canyon School, I plan to use it as a model for other schools in Northern Arizona,” he said.

For more information about Spirit of the Canyon, visit
spiritofthecanyon.com or call
702-333-8361.

ADVICE FOR THOSE STARTING A BUSINESS

You need to make sure you have the passion for what you are doing. Research your competitors and create a business plan with the understanding that you will probably make changes along the way. A marketing plan is also important.

CHARACTER QUALITIES ADMIRED IN OTHERS

First, I love learning who they are and what they enjoy. I then like to understand what personality type they are: promoter, controller, analytic, supporter.

FAVORITE HOBBY

Enjoying nature’s wonders is tops.

FAVORITE VACATION SPOT

Havasu Falls in the Grand Canyon.

MY SUPERPOWER   

Is regulating my body temperature under extreme conditions through the Wim Hof [a Dutch extreme athlete] Method. It has been life-changing for me. QCBN

By V. Ronnie Tierney, QCBN

Filed Under: Community Profile, Education, Tourism Tagged With: Grand Canyon Junction, Grand Canyon School, Hydroponic Gardening, hydroponics, microgreens, Spirit of the Canyon, Stoney Ward

Sole Sister

March 1, 2022 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Tennies for Tots founder Paula Sedillo Wise is making little feet happy.

Paula Sedillo Wise’s volunteer work with Tennies for Tots is a labor of love that has sprinted across Central and Northern Arizona. The program brings shoes to 3,000 children at 35 Headstart centers in Yavapai and Coconino counties as well as on the Navajo and Hopi reservations. Some days, she delivers hundreds of pairs and “the kids are thrilled,” she says.

Sedillo grew up in Flagstaff, where her parents instilled in her the importance of helping others. That was reinforced in her for the rest of her life when her father came down with cancer. Instead of feeling sorry for himself, her dad, James Sedillo, told her, “Don’t cry for me. Cry for the children.” He died four months later.

And thus, the Tennies for Tots program became a tribute to her dad. “Dad, this is for you. I need to keep this program going for him.”

Paula started the Tennies for Tots program in 2018 with four Headstart centers – two in Prescott and two in Flagstaff. “It has doubled each year,” she said. “I do a lot of shopping when shoes are on sale. People will call me to let me know about sales. We just finished our spring distribution.”

That distribution included trips to Headstart centers in the White Mountains, Winslow, Holbrook and Pinetop.

Tennies for Tots also works with the Firefighter Angel Foundation to bring shoes to children in the Quad Cities area. The Firefighter Angel Foundation gives backpacks with supplies to students during the holidays and helps families in need.

Working as an office manager for Good Samaritan Willow Wind in Prescott for 15 years, Sedillo saw the need when she sent her children to Headstart. “Another reason I wanted to help is because I struggled as a single mom.” Her sons are now 28 and 29.

“What’s really nice is after people’s children are helped, they want to help others. It’s nice when it comes full circle and they want to help somebody else,” she said.

Tennies for Tots is a non-profit organization that operates on donations and the help of volunteers. Currently, it has a donor who will match donations of up to $5,000 by the end of June.

Sedillo says the organization is always looking for more support. “Most of the volunteer work involves delivering and keeping an eye out for sales,” she said.

For more information or to make a tax-deductible donation, call 920-420-4360 or visit tenniesfortots.org. Tennies for Tots also has a Facebook page.

LAST TIME I FELT PROUD

I feel proud when we hear that children would have had the same pair of shoes with holes in them if not for Tennies for Tots. Children cannot focus on their classwork if they have holes in their shoes. I’m proud that we can make a difference.

BEST ADVICE EVER RECEIVED  

One of our biggest supporters said, “I like your concept, but you need to focus on shoes and socks.” That helped us. That was huge because we can’t do it all.

MY SUPERPOWER

Making little feet happy.

FAVORITE CHARACTER TRAIT

The generosity of people. Those who don’t have anything give the most. They say, “I’ve been in that position. I want to help.”

FAVORITE PLACE TO DECOMPRESS

Out in nature where I don’t have to think about anything and can just look at pretty flowers. QCBN

By Stan Bindell, QCBN

Filed Under: Business, Community Profile, Spotlight Tagged With: Headstart, Paula Sedillo Wise, Tennies for Tots

County Board of Supervisors Chair Prioritizes Service to Constituents

February 23, 2022 By quadcities 2 Comments

People are moving here from all over the world. With almost 12% growth, we simply must make solving water issues a major priority.

Longtime public servant Mary Mallory, currently chair of the Yavapai County Board of Supervisors (BOS), credits her childhood experience for inspiring her to focus on serving others in whatever way she could.

Mallory did not have a typical childhood. Her father was in the U.S. Army during World War II. He was a Philippine Theater war prisoner at the notorious Bataan Death Camp March when the war ended in 1945. He was released and returned to California. He never regained his health and was older than most dads when Mary was born in 1959 in Long Beach, California. At age 11, Mary had to take care of her mother, who had major health issues.

“They told me at school that I might be able to get some help from our Congressman. I didn’t know any better, so I caught public transport to his local office, went in and asked to see him. He graciously let me in, heard about our plight,” she said. “He initiated help through the Veteran’s Administration for assistance to me and my mom.”

Mallory says the positive impact of that one childhood experience – being helped by an elected official – remains with her no matter what jobs or volunteer organizations she commits to.

In an exclusive interview with Quad Cities Business News in late January, Mallory shared her long-held beliefs about what she thought the role of an elected official should be. She also shared her vision for the county’s and its community’s near future.

“It’s my heartfelt belief that if people in your community elect you to a position, it is your absolute responsibly to represent them honestly, fairly and sincerely. I think one of the highest honors a person can have is to be an elected representative. Voters put their trust in you. You should not defile it,” she said. “Any time you have any position of senior leadership, you should feel obligated to do all within your authority to be honest and transparent in working for what will benefit the greater good.”

Mallory says she felt that way when she was earning her business administration degree at Long Beach City College. “I continued feeling that way when I was a store manager for major supermarkets before I ever considered serving in public office. I certainly believed that when I was named to the Prescott Valley Town Council in March of 2011.”

Mallory served in a PV council member’s role until July 2019, when she was appointed to the BOS. District 5 voters then elected her to the same position in 2020. She was named board chair Jan. 1, 2022. Fellow BOS James Gregory from District 2 was named vice-chair.

Mallory Optimistic about Economic Future

Despite some grim consequences created because of impacts of the pandemic and its social and economic effects, Mallory is optimistic and enthusiastic about the fiscal future of Yavapai County.

“Given the increased growth in our county as evidenced by the census – from 211,033 in 2010 to 236,209 in 2020 – we’ve got to face up to some key issues. People are moving here from all over the world. With almost 12% growth, we simply must make solving water issues a major priority. We need to address the aging wastewater treatment systems and other out-of-date water facilities. We’ve now got some ARPA [American Rescue Plan Act] funds available to help with that,” she said. “Same is true with placing broadband throughout the county. Our rural residents need access to broadband to survive in today’s technological environment. ARPA can help with that, too.”

The BOS and county staff members will be setting specific priorities in upcoming meetings as they plan the budget for the next fiscal year.

“I want it made clear that in establishing a ‘Comprehensive Plan,’ we want citizen input. That plan will be our roadmap. It is required, and we want it to reflect where and how we should grow and what we should protect.”

Mallory cited eight elements that will be included in the plan: Land Use, Growth Areas, Transportation, Water Resources, Energy, Open Space, Environmental, and Cost of Development. She urges people to visit the Yavapai County Comprehensive Planning website at www.planningyavapai2032.org to complete online surveys to let their voices be heard.

Dumbest Thing I’ve Ever Done

When my husband, Kirk, and I moved from Southern California to Prescott Valley, we didn’t think we would need a house. We bought a fifth wheeler. Did anyone ever tell you how cold it gets in Prescott Valley during the winter?

Favorite Activity

We love hiking, biking and outdoor activities. We also enjoy travel in the U.S. and hope to see a lot more of this great country.

Last Time I Felt Proud

I am honored and humbled to be credited with initiating what is now called the “Healing Fields” in Prescott Valley, which honors those who lost their lives in the terrorist attack of 9/11. We Americans can never forget that horrifying day.

Who I Admire

With no hesitation, [I have to say] the late Harvey Skoog, former longtime Prescott Valley mayor. He was the kindest mentor to me when I was elected to town council and I’ll always remember him.

Advice for Newcomers

Don’t just sit back. Become aware of and participate actively in community issues. Become a part of the solution, not the problem. QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

Filed Under: Community Profile Tagged With: Mary Mallory, Yavapai County Board of Supervisors

Promoting Camp Verde’s Economic Development, Recreation, Smart Growth

January 28, 2022 By quadcities 1 Comment

Economic Development Director Steve Ayers is inspired by ‘Sense of Place’ projects.

The simple, childlike words of Dr. Seuss have become a powerful modus operandi for the Town of Camp Verde Economic Development Director, Steve Ayers.

Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better…it’s not… – The Lorax

“That has been my motto since I accepted this position in 2013,” said Ayers. “This job wasn’t what I aspired to do, but when the previous economic director resigned, she approached me and suggested I apply. She felt I would be a good candidate, as I had been periodically advising her on what she would, could and should do.”

At the time, Ayers was a journalist for the Verde Independent newspaper. “Rather than a resume, I wrote a 20-page paper stating how the Town of Camp Verde should move off the dime. It stirred the interest of the town manager and he eventually hired me.”

Since his appointment, Ayers has moved forward, bringing into the Town of Camp Verde a huge RV facility with 400 units, totaling $20 million. “This is a big revenue generator,” he said. “Additionally, a developer has recently broken ground on a 192-unit apartment complex.”

Other new projects include a hotel, a manufactured home community and other retail projects, including a Tractor Supply store.

Also on Ayers’ plate is progress on the Camp Verde Sports Complex, which was initiated in 1986. “The Town of Camp Verde purchased this property when it came up for sale, 110 acres for $2.3 million. The first phase consists of two baseball fields, two soccer fields, concession stands, restrooms and maintenance facilities.” Eventually, mountain bike trails will be incorporated.

Stating that the sports complex will be irrigated with reclaimed water from the wastewater treatment plant, Ayers made note of the fact that the water is A-Plus Water. “In order to use this water on the sports fields, it must be A-Plus, as determined by the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ). This means you can technically drink it.”

Since retired Psychiatric Technician Judy Stevenson moved to Camp Verde from California, she has come to the Camp Verde Sports Complex twice a week to walk with her dog, Hank. “The trails are awesome and my dog loves it. I’m so excited about this Sports Complex because I have grandchildren and when they get older and start playing youth sports, it will be so much fun.”

Balancing growth with no-growth, Ayers’ impetus is to invest on both sides of the scale. “The answer is not to not have growth, the answer is to have smart growth and be responsible to the things that you came here for. The work that comes out of our office is simply committed to doing what I call the right thing. The right thing is not always what gives you the most money or the most jobs or lands the most people here, it’s doing the things that balance out everybody’s needs.”

Calling his proposal “Sense of Place Development,” investing in parks, the Verde River and hiking and cycling trails are the tasks that Ayers took on in 2016. “We received funding from the Walton Family Foundation [a philanthropic organization begun by Walmart founders], and we conducted a River Recreation Master Plan to solicit feedback, priorities, concerns of community members about recreational opportunities and challenges along the 17-mile stretch of the Verde River that runs through Camp Verde.”

“He’s got the right spirit,” said Beaver Creek Trails Coalition President Stan Mish. “He’s doing fabulous work and great things for the community. In terms of my particular interest, he’s getting trails built and he keeps issues on the table and keeps us updated.”

“We had no hiking trails when I first started here, but we have received funds for construction of trails and parks,” said Ayers. “My department has brought in over $8 million in grants and outside funding. Though these may not sound like economic development initiatives, they are Sense of Place and they build and create a livable community.”

Ayers says Camp Verde has been discussing the importance of protecting the Verde River and enhancing the outdoor lifestyle of the Western rural community since the town incorporated in 1986.

Ayers is credited with reinstating the town’s designation as a Qualified Opportunity Zone with the U.S. Treasury. “Basically what this means is tax incentives for businesses.”

Born in Tucson, Ayers grew up traveling the world because his father served in the military. After a career in the automotive industry, Ayers went back to college and to complete his degree in professional writing. “I graduated on my 49th birthday.”

As past president of the Camp Verde Historical Society, Ayers was asked to write a book for the group’s fundraiser. He donated his time to write “Images of America Camp Verde.”

Ayers and his wife enjoy hiking and have one grown daughter.

LAST AMAZING MEAL 

My wife and I have tradition of making a seafood feast for Christmas Eve, and this year, because of the price of king crab, lobster and our usual mainstays, we tried something new. We made Maryland-style crabcakes and coconut shrimp, both of which, served with the appropriate dipping sauces, turned out heavenly. My wife, who is also my best friend, was my dinner partner.

BEST ADVICE I’VE RECEIVED

You are free to say whatever you want in an email. But if it is in any way a less-than-pleasant correspondence, sleep on it before you hit send.

ACTOR WHO SHOULD PLAY ME

Perhaps Bill Murray, since much of my current life is a neverending battle with gophers.

GUILTY PLEASURE

Belgian beer – the incredibly delicious and relatively expensive stuff made by the Trappist breweries.

ROLE MODELS

I’ve had many: My parents for genuinely caring enough to share their lives with me, the handful of bosses I have worked for who never put me on a leash, and my best friend, Chip, who is the very definition of what the Yiddish language refers to as a “mensch.” The term is commonly translated as “a person of integrity and honor.” But the sportswriter Joe Posnanski wrote the best definition I ever read (I paraphrase): “He’s the guy who stands up for you when you aren’t around, the guy who gives you the aisle seat so you can sit with your friend, the guy who leaves a note on your windshield when he dents your car, the guy who brings the hostess a gift, knows your birthday, knows your kid’s name, your dogs’ names and never forgets to pass along the promised book or recipe or recommendation.” QCBN

By V. Ronnie Tierney, QCBN

Filed Under: Community Profile, Local News Tagged With: ‘Sense of Place’ projects, Dr. Suess, Steve Ayers, Verde Independent newspaper

Jeff D’Arpa is the Man Behind the Adventure

January 3, 2022 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Grand Canyon Railway general manager enjoys working where others play.

Going to work in places where he could play is what Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel General Manager Jeff D’Arpa had in mind while growing up, and that’s exactly what happened.

With ski resorts, national parks, hotels and now the Polar Express and Grand Canyon Railway in his professional queue, D’Arpa has completed 25 years with the Xanterra Travel Collection.

In his new position as Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel General Manager, D’Arpa oversees 280 to 340 employees and said, “The team I work with is outstanding and makes this a manageable assignment. To be able to incorporate trains and hospitality at this scale is a unique opportunity and I cherish the challenge it provides me.”

D’Arpa’s career began at Deer Valley Resort in Park City, Utah, where he began working in the ski shop. “My goal was to manage a ski or golf resort,” he said.  Again his dream was fulfilled as he stepped into the role of restaurant manager at Deer Valley.

When the snow melted, D’Arpa took off to work at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon as a food server in the summers. He stayed busy hiking the Grand Canyon trails and climbing the corporate ladder.

Starting as a food server for Xanterra Travel Collection in 1996, D’Arpa was able to work his way up to management.

He served as regional general manager of Zion National Park in Utah, the North Rim of the Grand Canyon and Bryce Canyon National Park before becoming director of resort operations at the Grand Canyon Railway in Williams.

Chief Parks Officer Gordon Taylor has worked alongside D’Arpa for many years. “He certainly has integrity, intelligence and the energy to get things done.  I am a very lucky man to have the honor to call Jeff both a teammate and a friend.”

Along with his responsibilities at the Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel, D’Arpa also oversees the Grand Hotel in Tusayan and the Tusayan Trading Post.

Born in Yonkers, New York, where he spent his formative years, D’Arpa moved to Florida when he was 16. While working at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, D’Arpa would visit Flagstaff in the mid ‘90s. “I always enjoyed the atmosphere, lifestyle and community. I also had some great friends from back East relocate to Flagstaff, making our transition to the area quite easy.”

Married to Lisa, the couple has two daughters and spends their free time hiking, skiing and cycling. D’Arpa also enjoys playing drums. “Weekends are never long enough,” he said.

The Grand Canyon Railway Hotel is located in Williams and has daily round-trip excursions to the Grand Canyon. The Polar Express will run through Dec. 30. For more information, call 888-848-3511.

Biggest Influence
I’ve been fortunate to work for Xanterra’s Chief Parks Officer Gordon Taylor since 1996. He has trusted and supported me through all my years with Xanterra, allowing me to grow and enjoy many achievements both personally and professionally.

Character Qualities Most Admired
Hard work and honesty.

Favorite Places to Visit
The bottom of the Grand Canyon and top of Humphreys Peak. To have these gems in your backyard and not make regular pilgrimages to enjoy them wouldn’t make sense to me.

The Last Time I Laughed My daughters make me laugh all the time. Somehow they are the funniest humans alive. Any of their TikTok videos put me in stitches.  QCBN

By V. Ronnie Tierney, QCBN

Filed Under: Community Profile, Local News Tagged With: Gordon Taylor, Grand Canyon, Grand Hotel in Tusayan, Jeff D’Arpa, The Polar Express, Xanterra, Zion National Park

Retiring the Voice of County Health

November 23, 2021 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Terri Farneti retires following an intense public information effort through COVID-19.

Some may think only the past couple of years have been truly challenging for those involved in public and community health.

Terri Farneti likely will disagree with those folks. She’s been directly involved with public health issues for the past 16 years. It was only two months ago, in fact, that she retired from the intensity of those pressures escalated by the pandemic. Before that, other health concerns kept her constantly reacting.

For 16 years, Farneti has been integral in alerting residents about the full range of healthcare issues that permeate the various county communities.

She started her career with Yavapai County Community Health Services (YCCHS) in December 2005 as an administrative assistant to the assistant director of public health. Through the next few years, she demonstrated abilities and skills that resulted in rapid promotion to positions of increasing authority and responsibility. Hence, when the H1N1 virus – sometimes called the “Swine Flu” – ravaged the world’s population from 2009 until fall 2010, she was directly involved with identifying, developing and supporting vaccination clinics utilizing hundreds of volunteers throughout the county. “This was a massive effort, and the county had not previously done anything quite like it,” she recalled.

Not long after that, she was part of the YCCHS team that developed the very first Community Health Assessment Implementation Workplan. That effort, which began in 2012, led to the department’s becoming an applicant for the National Public Health Accreditation in 2015. “This was a huge project, and we had 197 items we had to document and submit for review to receive accreditation. But we got it in March 2016,” Farneti said.

In 2017, when Leslie Horton was named department director, Farneti was promoted into a position as special projects coordinator. Horton said Farneti soon became involved in grant writing and coordinating many of those areas of knowledge and expertise that assured the department was operating smoothy. She later was given public information duties.

Horton said during the pandemic, the YCCHS activated a Public Health Emergency Response. “Terri’s work quickly and drastically changed as the public information officer. She gathered information, issued press releases and Facebook posts and whatever other means of information she could find to inform the pubic of the latest COVID 19 data. Terri was our ‘go-to’ person for information for the media.”

Farneti explained, “When the pandemic hit in January 2020, we’d never faced anything like it. It took all the talent from throughout the YCCHS to establish the Emergency Operations Center. I feel so fortunate that I was in a team atmosphere that made positive things happen. In spite of it all, YCCHS applied for re-accreditation in January 2021. We all cooperated and managed to submit our reapplication for accreditation on June 1, 2021.”

Not Always in Health Service Disciplines 

Farneti, a native of Wayland, a small town in west central New York, earned her degree in hotel and restaurant management from Rochester Institute of Technology. She has more than 40 years of experience in the restaurant and hospitality industry, ranging from small operations to working for the Marriott Corp. in New Jersey and at major hotels in New Jersey, Atlanta, Georgia and Hilton Head, South Carolina. She met her French-born husband Maurice when they both worked at the L’Auberge Chez Francois in Great Falls, Virginia. They moved from there to Washington, D. C., where they worked at the prestigious Hay-Adams Hotel in catering, which Farneti calls, “a highlight of my hospitality career.”

In 1998, they moved from D.C. to Prescott, where they purchased a coffee shop on Gurley Street they renamed “Provence.” A couple of years later, Farneti accepted a position at Yavapai College, where she held dual administrative roles as a member of the Leadership Center Team and a staff member for the Office of Government for Northern Arizona. When Yavapai College downsized those units, she applied for and was hired by YCCHS, where she worked and advanced for 16 years.

“As much as I enjoyed my work for the county, both at the college and most recently, health services, I confess my husband, Maurice, and I enjoyed some other marvelous experiences here in the community and the state. I especially enjoyed my community organization experiences—the Prescott Area Leadership Class, Big Brother-Big Sisters as a “big” for 14 years, the Launch Pad Teen Center and most important, the League of Women Voters for Central Yavapai County.”

NOW THAT I HAVE MORE TIME

I’m planning to join the U.S. Tennis Association and play more tennis, especially in league play. I’ll also remain involved in League of Women Voters.

WHERE I’D LIKE TO VISIT

Maurice and I want to climb into the Dodge Sprinter camper van we bought and see some new country – anywhere we want to go. I especially want to go back East to see friends and family we haven’t seen since we moved out here 24 years ago.

FAVORITE HOLIDAYS

How’s this for opposites: St. Patrick’s Day and Halloween. I guess it’s because I love the Irish heritage I have, but I also love being incognito in my costumes for Halloween.

PEOPLE I ADMIRE

I observed so many of my colleagues these past few years putting in extra hours of work, trying to help people understand just how severe and serious these epidemics and pandemics are. Sometimes they were treated inappropriately and unfairly. The reality is, they need to be praised and admired.

UPON REFLECTION

I’ve done far more than I ever thought I would do. I’ve worked with some tremendous friends and leaders. I gained far more than I ever expected. But now it’s someone else’s turn to gather information and attend meetings and take responsibility. I just hope they are as lucky as I have been. QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

Filed Under: Community Profile, Local News Tagged With: Terri Farneti, Yavapai County Community Health Services

Called to the Stage

October 1, 2021 By quadcities 1 Comment

Actress Robyn Allen is named Prescott-area ATHENA.

Stage actress Robyn Allen has spent more than 30 years in the entertainment industry, but says she had to overcome her shyness to perform.

“I was always very shy,” she said, “but if I had written a poem, I would just stand up and recite it in front of my relatives. I think that’s how they tricked me into auditioning for plays in school.”

Soon she found her own trick, which was to become completely immersed in the character and stay focused.

Allen shared her story with more than 100 people at the 2021 Prescott-area ATHENA Awards, Sunday, Sept. 19, at Goods from the Garden, where she was honored with the leadership award, sponsored by Quad Cities Business News and Prescott Woman Magazine.

“I was shocked and so honored to be a finalists alongside those women,” she said. “I really wanted to take a moment and learn who they were and what their journeys were that got us to this place.”

Allen, the executive director of Suze’s Prescott Center for the Arts (PCA) since 2016, is adamant that success doesn’t happen on our own. “It takes an enormous amount of support. We have hundreds of volunteers [at PCA]. I have an amazing staff and have always had a great team around me, supporting and surrounding me,” she said as she acknowledged her husband, Al, and thanked her team at PCA.

Besides acting, Allen’s career has included producing, directing and arts leadership. She received her education at Arizona State University under the direction of Marshall W. Mason and at the New Actors Workshop in New York. She served as artistic director of Theater Works in Peoria and was a founding member of the acclaimed Algonquin Theater Co., in Phoenix.

She has received 38 ariZoni nominations and 14 awards for her work in theater, including best director, best actress, best supporting actress and best guest artist. In addition, she has been featured in The Arizona Republic’s Who’s Who of Women in Theater.

One of her favorite productions was “Sweeney Todd,” for which she won an ariZoni Award for directing. Allen says her most fun experience was participating in a comedy horror film called “‘Netherbeast Incorporated’ about an undead telephone company staffed by flesh-eating, vampire-like employees. I worked with a lot of great comics in that film like Darrell Hammond, Dave Foley and Steve Burns. It was shot in Arizona.”

Most recently, under Allen’s leadership, Suze’s Prescott Center for the Arts received a nomination for the 2020 Governor’s Arts Awards, the 2020 Prescott Chamber Business Excellence in Arts and Culture Award and the 2020 Twink Lynch Organizational Achievement Award, on the national level. Noted in the Twink Lynch acknowledgment was the organization’s ability to redirect resources to create PCA Serves, which addresses the needs of the center’s mostly elderly patron population and served the broader community during the pandemic.

At the same time, the center had engaged in a capital campaign to build a new studio theater, and expand rehearsal and classroom space to better serve the community’s youth and create an additional art gallery.However, Allen says the campaign, “Setting the Stage,” was put on hold while the group focused on helping the community maneuver through the pandemic. Nonetheless, an anonymous donor came through, enabling the center to move forward with its expansion plans. As a result, PCA was able to break ground in July.

Allen was born and raised in Phoenix. Her husband grew up in Mayer. While visiting his family, she was introduced to Prescott and had always kept the idea of living there one day in her mind. The two made the move from Phoenix to Prescott in 2015. “Literally six weeks after I got here, the one job I do opened up at Prescott Center for the Arts. It fit like a glove.”

She planned to work as the interim director until they filled the position through a national search. “I fell in love with the community, the gallery, the center and everything about it.”

She decided she should apply for the job and the center agreed. “It’s just been go, go, go since then,” she said.

“I love everything about community theater, especially watching the growth of individuals and working with our youth,” she said. “The arts enhance a community. There really is something for everyone. You don’t have to be a performer, you can be active in other departments. We have opportunities for our youth to learn theater management and administrative skills. We need designers in lights and costume and enjoy teaching these skills to our volunteers. Community theater is a great place to get your feet wet. When I first started directing, I knew I’d have to learn how to do it all and you learn it quickly.”

Allen has been married for 34 years. She and her husband have two daughters and a son.

Biggest Role Model

Judy Rollings is a founding member of Actors Theater of Phoenix. I learned a lot from her. She was my mentor and still is. She is my acting coach and has championed me through difficult times.

Guilty Pleasure

Chocolate in any form.

Favorite Pastime

Spending time with my husband. It’s a challenge to be married to someone like me with a career like mine. I’m gone nights and weekends, I work crazy hours. So when we have time together I love to get on our motorcycle with him and feel the wind in my face.

Favorite Movie

I can space out and let go by watching romantic comedies. “Love Actually” is a favorite. So is “50 First Dates.”

Travel Destination Wish List

I really want to go to Paris and Rome. I am a romantic and so is my husband. QCBN

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

Filed Under: Community Profile, Local News Tagged With: Actress Robyn Allen, Athena Awards, Prescott Center for the Arts, Prescott Woman Magazine, Prescott-area ATHENA, Quad Cities Business News, Robyn Allen, The Arizona Republic

Retired L.A. Detective Stuns with ‘Bombshell’

August 26, 2021 By quadcities 1 Comment

Best-selling author Mike Rothmiller pulls from his investigative notes to write about Marilyn Monroe’s death.

Delving deep into political intrigue energizes Mike Rothmiller, a former Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) detective, who, in 1977 at age 27, had been the youngest person assigned to the department’s Organized Crime Intelligence Division (OCID).

The division armed a succession of LA police chiefs with intelligence to peddle influence and intimidate opponents, Rothmiller said. Among about 70 detectives active during Rothmiller’s five-year tenure, he noted, not one arrest was made.

“Going back to the 1930s, the police chiefs were the most powerful people in Southern California,” he explained. “It was a very different time.”

New detectives were assigned to learning how the filing system worked. Never dreaming that he would one day be writing books about what he discovered, Rothmiller said he flipped through index cards linked to files about mobsters, actors and actresses, politicians and other icons.

From Detective to Writer

Now a New York Times bestselling author chasing down conspiracy theories, Rothmiller has published 34 books since 1992. Four of those volumes were co-authored and some were written under pen names.

His latest book, “Bombshell: The Night Bobby Kennedy Killed Marilyn Monroe,” incorporates Rothmiller’s handwritten notes, Monroe’s diary, and a 1982 interrogation of the late actor and Kennedy brother-in-law, Peter Lawford. “Bombshell” re-
creates the events of Aug. 4, 1962, at Monroe’s LA home, and has generated media buzz in Australia, England and Germany.

Rothmiller stumbled upon Monroe’s missing diary, the grail in Robert F. Kennedy’s (RFK) frantic search of Monroe’s home on the night she died. Lawford later told Rothmiller that he was at Monroe’s home while Kennedy rummaged for the incriminating volume. Monroe’s diary had not been logged in the OCID filing system, a fact that Rothmiller ascribes to it having been buried. Rothmiller handwrote the entries that interested him.

When Rothmiller interviewed Lawford 20 years after Monroe’s death, he says the actor was an alcoholic and a broken man. Nonetheless, the he said he is certain that the actor was sober and truthful about witnessing RFK mixing a special beverage for Monroe. Not realizing what the concoction was, Lawford allegedly joined RFK in urging the emotionally distressed Monroe to drink it.

Undercover to Mainstream

The undercover experiences of Rothmiller in OCID and the cover-ups he alleges in his books are a far cry from his daily life in Prescott. He and his wife, Nancy, arrived 15 years ago following a stint in Colorado.

He is currently working on his first novel and his next compendium of conspiracies, including RFK’s assassination and the Black Dahlia murder. The fiction book is pure detective drama.

“My wife is reading it now,” he said. “I wrote it actually the way that detectives speak, not the TV stuff. It takes place in Hollywood. I worked there, so that’s where I come from in my writing.”

Rothmiller also has been digging into Hillary Clinton’s 340,000 emails. Despite his intense interest, Rothmiller says those email messages likely will be classified for the next 25 years.

“I enjoy the research more than anything else,” he said. “I dig in. A lot of times, it’s a deadend. My work is true crime, very graphic. There is no candy coating.”

Decoys and Subterfuge

Decoys, misinformation and other subterfuge were used by detectives and their sources to keep OCID’s intervention quiet, Rothmiller said. Often, there would be an official crime investigation and a parallel OCID case. The OCID analysis never saw the light of day.

“We were working under cover,” he explained. “In a lot of cases, the information [from sources] was so startling to you that it was seared/embedded into your memory.”

The backstory behind how he snagged the interview with Lawford and the actor’s concern that Rothmiller was a CIA agent provide interesting reading in “Bombshell.” Shortly after the Lawford interview, Rothmiller was ambushed and badly injured. Ultimately, the attack was traced to another case involving Central and South American gun running and drugs.

“I was in the hospital in the trauma center under an assumed name,” Rothmiller recalled, when intelligence personnel reported that the attacker had returned to Nicaragua and that Nancy also had been targeted. “[The criminals] wanted to send a message to everyone in law enforcement that if you got in their way, they would take out your whole family.”

Rothmiller’s first book was published about 10 years after he had left police work. Titled “LA Secret Police,” the book documented life inside OCID and quickly made the bestseller list. By that time, he had been a TV reporter and had his own ESPN series.

“I thrive on exposing things that the average person does not see,” Rothmiller said. “Intelligence gathering is a completely different world. There are things that people do not want you to see.  There is so much political corruption, but now they are more cautious and devious in the way they cover their tracks.”

Best Advice Ever Received

It came from my mother: I am not sure how old I was, 8 or 9 that I recall, and about to play hardball at the park. I had never played before and I was nervous about it. She said, “Michael, you don’t know what you can accomplish unless you try.” I did well and pitched a no-hitter. Her words always stayed with me. What is the worst that can happen? You don’t know until you try.

Favorite Place to Visit

For vacation, I like Alaska and I have been 20 to 30 times to Hawaii. When not a vacation situation, I like going places that are unusual and different. I am an archeological site steward for Arizona. I have spent plenty of time off the beaten path, hiking two-story cliff dwellings that look like the inhabitants walked away a couple of weeks ago, even though it was the year 1300. Doing the news (as a TV reporter/director), I spent two weeks in the Amazon swimming in clear tributary waters and enjoying the wildlife.

Who I Admire

When I was in San Diego working at Sony and on the USO Board of Directors, I met a lot of military personnel being shipped off to Iraq and other places, not knowing if they would be coming back. I saw them with their spouses and children. The littlest children did not understand where Dad or Mom was going. Even in police work, you can quit anytime you want, but not as a soldier going on deployment to war. You can’t say, “I quit today.” I have to admire those people. In my book, “My Hero: Military Kids Write About Their Moms and Dads,” the kids wrote essays about why their parents are their heroes. I admire those kids, too, for how brave they were talking about their parents.

My Superpower

That goes back to what my Mom said. I am not afraid to try new things, not knowing if I am going to succeed or fail. If I succeed, wonderful. Maybe it’s an attitude toward life.

Five Years From Now

I assume I will still be writing right here. It keeps my mind active. Research and writing are like a treasure hunt for me. Most of the time, I find a gem to answer a question or open others’ eyes to something. QCBN

By Sue Marceau, QCBN

Filed Under: Community Profile, Spotlight Tagged With: community profile, Marilyn Monroe, Marilyn Monroe’s death, Mike Rothmiller

ERAU Chancellor Ranks Among ‘Most Influential Women in Arizona’

August 3, 2021 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Anette Karlsson begins third year leading the aeronautical university.

Anette Karlsson arrived in Prescott on Aug. 1, 2019, as chancellor of the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) Prescott campus. She pledged a university education that was personal, student-focused and totally immersive. She also emphasized the continuation of rigorous learning experiences that had positive educational and economic impacts on Arizona and the nation.

Though barely known in Arizona when she arrived, a year later, she was named one of 2020’s “Most Influential Women in Arizona.”

However, because of the COVID-19 shutdown of public events, the celebration was delayed until this month in Phoenix.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the prestigious event organized by AZ Business and AZRE magazines, both of which focus on high-level corporate, business and educational executives and owners. “Being named is a testament to the number of brilliant, talented women leaders in Arizona. The program is one of the most elite and competitive in the state, ” said AZ Big Media Editor in Chief Michael Gossie. More than 2,000 women were considered.

Karlsson, a native of Sweden, has achieved international prominence as an engineering and aviation expert, as well as a higher education administrator. Karlsson had a successful academic and work career in Sweden. She completed degrees in engineering – a bachelor’s in 1985 and a master’s in 1990 – at Linkoping University. During that same period, she worked for SAAB Corporation in the aerospace division.

She moved to the United States, where she served as a scientific attaché in the Swedish Embassy. Karlsson soon enrolled at Rutgers University, where she earned her doctorate in mechanical and aerospace engineering in 1999. She completed post-doctoral research experience at Princeton University. She later joined the University of Delaware faculty from 2008 to 2012, and became chair of the Department of Mechanical Engineering. In 2012, she moved to Cleveland State University as a professor and dean in the Washkewicz College of Engineering.

Karlsson accepted the administrative position at ERAU, succeeding Dr. Frank Ayers, who retired at ERAU-Prescott and moved to the ERAU-Daytona Beach, Florida, campus.

“She brought stellar academic credentials, superb executive experience, a passion for both engineering and aviation, and a team-oriented approach to the chancellorship,” said ERAU President Dr. P. Barry Butler.

As leader of what is rated the No. 1 aviation and aerospace university in the nation, Karlsson said, “Enrollment is expected to exceed 3,000 this fall, with students coming from all 50 states and from more than 40 foreign nations. The increase, though modest, is an exception to what is happening in the rest of the country. This speaks well of our dedicated faculty and staff, who consider students the reason why we have a university.”

The worldwide campus, including the other residential campus in Florida, brings the total enrollment to 31,000 for ERAU.

MAJOR CHALLENGE

“Soon after I moved here, the pandemic began. We had to think about moving ahead with educational programs while at the same time keeping everyone safe during all these months. That derailed some of my plans.”

FASTEST GROWING PROGRAMS

“Actually, aviation – graduating pilots. The aviation industry is coming back strong. Also, the airline industry is suffering from a shortage of pilots because so many are retiring. Cybersecurity is also increasing in enrollment.”

SOURCE OF PRIDE 

“The Golden Eagles flight team this past late May won its 13th national flight championship, competing against 28 major universities in the U.S. We’re really proud of those top-notch students.”

NEXT MAJOR PROJECT

“We’re in the design phases of a new student union center. We desperately need it. That’s part of my long-term goal – to refresh the campus. Then, we’ll look at new classrooms and office buildings.”

FAVORITE ACTIVITY

“I really do enjoy rising early and getting out and jogging and exercising. But it seems lately, I’ve had to cut back on that because of so many other obligations. I get out on weekends.” QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

Filed Under: Community Profile, Local News Tagged With: Anette Karlsson, Barry Butler, community profile, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, ERAU chancellor, ERAU Prescott campus, Pilots

Enjoying the Ride

June 26, 2021 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Soledaddy Longboards owner handcrafts his unique skateboards at the Grand Canyon.

Thinking about surfing in Northern Arizona may sound a bit unusual, but according to outdoor recreationist Nicolas Sutherland, riding his Soledaddy Longboard here “is the closest you can get to riding the ocean waves.”

“I heard about Soledaddy Longboards at Aspen Sports,” said Sutherland. “The board is handmade, beautiful and rides like a dream, and I love the retro look, so I knew I had to give them a try. It’s so much fun carving down hills with its flexible deck and extra-long shape. I’ll probably buy another one soon.”

Crafted in his garage at the South Rim Grand Canyon Village, Soledaddy Longboards owner Scott Rommel, who works for Grand Canyon National Park in water utilities, has sold more than 50 boards since last August. His tagline is “Everybody wants one.”

“Aspen Sports has been invaluable to my business,” said Rommel. “The response from customers has been incredible. Last August, they sold out in a couple weeks. I had to resupply the store to keep up with the demand.”

“The Soledaddy Longboards are selling extremely well,” said Aspen Sports Skateboarding Manager Jorge Doniz, who has been skating for more than 15 years. “People like them because of their unique Southwest features and amazing ride. It’s hard to get a flex on a board but with Soledaddys, you can go high speeds and maintain control. It helps the rider enjoy the board more. I just bought a new board and I’m real excited about it.”

Born and raised in San Diego, Rommel moved to the Grand Canyon 17 years ago. His dad was a surfer and carpenter and built Rommel a skateboard when he was 7 years old. “In the 1990s, I started constructing skateboards and sold them in a couple shops in San Diego as well as the swap meet for a few years. I believe I am the first skateboard designer to build skateboards with a what I call a ‘double swallowtail.’”

Rommel says his inspiration for the look and style of his boards come from his love for old cars. “I love classic cars from the 1950s and 1960s – it’s such a great American art form. The detail and quality they show through their work is inspiring. Classic car designs have subliminally seeped into my designs.”

The initial restart of Soledaddy Longboards began last year when Rommel went back home to San Diego to visit his parents. “I found a couple old planks in the garage and my son saw them and said I should start making them again. So, I picked up a hobby from 25 years ago,” said Rommel.

Using birch laminate that he purchases from Spellman Hardwoods in Flagstaff, the Soledaddy Longboards are a half-inch thick and up to 60 inches long, inlaid with alder hardwood. “Birch laminate has more flex and gives great suspension, like a luxury car,” explained Rommel. A recent longboard features Monument Valley-themed artwork.

Owner of The Pizza Guy, Mike Williams, who collects skateboards, has a Soledaddy original that Rommel made for him. “It is a really cool board with red inlay with my logo.”

Eventaually, Rommel says he hopes to have a small workshop and a couple of employees. “That would be so cool, but right now it’s just me, my garage and backyard, and that’s fine because I’m having fun. I love what I to do and it’s very satisfying work.”

My superpower is:

Focus. I can latch on to an idea or vision and go for it until I finish it. This helps a lot in board making. I’m also good at planning, taking into consideration many things and putting them all together to formulate a course of action.

Best advice I’ve ever received:

The best business advice I’ve gotten is from my multimedia consultant, graphic artist and somewhat of a silent partner, Elise Burnette, who tells me to “stay the course” and “stick to your guns.”

A skill I’d like to learn:

Computer graphic design. It would be great to create digital artwork that I could turn into decals for my boards. Right now, I use all of my time to actually produce the boards.

My role model is:

I admire those people who stick to their beliefs no matter what. That takes a lot of courage. It could be Malala Yousafzai or Greta Thunberg, or it could be characters in films like those played by John Wayne or Clint Eastwood’s character in “Unforgiven.”

My favorite travel destination is:

The eastern Sierra Mountains, up in the high country, the John Muir Wilderness. It’s so beautiful – crystal clear creeks, streams and lakes full of wild trout. That always draws me back. That’s what I think heaven would look like to me. QCBN

By V. Ronnie Tierney, QCBN

For more information about Soledaddy Longboards, visit soledaddylongboards.com or call 928-640-0607.

Filed Under: Community Profile Tagged With: Aspen Sports, community profile, Enjoying the Ride, Scott Rommel, Soledaddy Longboards, South Rim Grand Canyon Village, spotlight

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