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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

Teen Builds Business Out of Chocolate

April 4, 2021 By quadcities Leave a Comment

  Tyler Stickler works hard to make life sweeter at the Grand Canyon Chocolate Factory.

When you have been the Flagstaff High School student body president, captain of the football and track teams, and a part of the school’s Governing Board, it’s not surprising that you would be in a business management position at age 19.

For Grand Canyon Chocolate Factory Co-owner and Manager Tyler Stickler, starting a business and running it was an opportunity he couldn’t pass up. “I just wasn’t interested in going to college after high school,” said Stickler. “Then, my dad had this epiphany for a business so we sat down and came up with this idea to open a candy store at the gateway to the Grand Canyon. We opened right when COVID hit so business was a little slow, which we expected, but it picked up fast and we are doing surprisingly well.”

Stepping into his new role, Stickler is in charge of sales but says he has his hand in every aspect of the business. He drives to Tusayan from his home in Flagstaff every day. “I work from 9 in the morning until 9:45 at night.”

“Tyler is a very kind and driven person,” said Sales Associate and Cashier Sophia Maragos. “I can’t wait to see how far he takes the business. He is so passionate about it.”

Selling an abundance of treats, the lineup at Grand Canyon Chocolate Factory includes 15 different flavors of truffles, 18 types of fudge, 24 flavors of gelato, candy and caramel apples, and a large selection of trail mix and popcorn.

“Our biggest seller is our Grand Canyon Crunch,” said Stickler. “It’s Rice Krispies on steroids,” he said. “It has marshmallows, white and dark chocolate, and peanut butter.”

Stickler researched candy shops and says he is very proud of the selection he offers. Everything, except the gelato, is made on site. Stickler’s mother, Vicki, and other family members and friends help out.

Grand Canyon Chocolate Factory Manager Sean Ketcher grew up with Stickler and he and his family helped get the store going. “I’ve learned that when Tyler has a goal, he doesn’t stop. He digs down and works until he achieves it. I’m really lucky to work with him.”

Renovations are planned in the next couple of months, along with an expansion of products. “We have space on the other side of our building, so we’re looking into opening a coffee and pastry shop as well,” said Stickler. “We have had requests for specialty coffee and drinks.”

The Grand Canyon Chocolate Factory is located off Highway 64 in Tusayan. For more information, call 928-853-9753 or visit grandcanyonfactory@gmail.com.

My superpower:

My parents. They taught me to push myself out of my comfort zone. In high school, I was scared of public speaking, but I pushed myself and eventually, I spoke in front of 8,000 people and felt at ease. Also, my parents taught me people skills and the ability to communicate effectively. I thought it was normal to have these traits, but as I grew older I’ve realized it’s not, and that has set me apart. I owe it all to my parents.

Character traits I most appreciate in others:

For me, it’s hard work. I think hard work defines character more than any other trait. Just by showing up and working consistently is one of the most important attributes someone can have. More than anything, work ethic will get you further in life.

My guilty pleasure:

Weird, but other than the Grand Canyon Chocolate Factory, my life is the gym at Flagstaff Athletic Club. I love weightlifting.

My favorite place to recreate:

My family grew up around Page and Lake Powell, so I fell in love with it because it is such a beautiful area and so much to do. My dad and I also like to hunt, especially in the Kaibab Forest, Unit 9.

Best advice I’ve ever received:

My dad taught me that hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work. He’s always said there’s no substitute for a good attitude and good work ethic and I always believed that and always will because it’s worked for me. That’s the way I live my life. QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

Filed Under: Business, Community Profile Tagged With: business, chocolate, Co-owner, coffee, community profile, Grand Canyon Chocolate Factory, Manager, pastry. treats, starting a business, Tyler Stickler

Nation’s Winningest Soccer Coach Retires

February 25, 2021 By quadcities 1 Comment

Mike Pantalione ends his extraordinary 32-year career at Yavapai College.

Pantalione was hired in 1988 by then YC Athletic Director Lynn Merritt. He was at the University of Montana, where he earned his degree. Prior to that, Pantalione had been coaching and directing soccer programs in England and then the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Kenyon College in Ohio, Jesuit High School in Portland, and Archbishop Wood High School in Philadelphia. In all, he has been active in soccer for 40 years.n icon in the Quad Cities and even more so in the collegiate soccer world, Mike Pantalione retired in mid-January after a 32-year career as head soccer coach at Yavapai College (YC).

No men’s soccer coach in the nation has a record that even comes close to Pantalione’s .900 winning percentage. He is the only coach in intercollegiate soccer to average more than 20 wins a season.

A Hall of Fame recipient, he coached the Roughriders to several National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) championships. His team won its first national championship in 1990 – two years after he founded the team. The Roughriders won national championships again in 1992, 1997, 2002, 2003, 2007 and 2009.

Those who know Pantalione will tell you he is a quiet, humble man, reluctant to take credit for any Roughrider accomplishment. That was apparent when Pantalione, in an exclusive interview with QCBN, said, “It’s a player’s sport. All the credit should go to the players for the program’s success.”

However, the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania native’s individual honors are too numerous to be put aside. Among them:

1980—Named national coach of the year by Special Olympics, Washington, D.C.

1995—Recipient of National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) National Merit Honor because of high standards for professional and ethical behavior.

2006—First-ever national coach to be named to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Hall of Fame.

2012—Awarded the NJCAA National Service Award for significant contributions to junior college athletics.

2015—Received NSCAA Letter of Commendation for unusual achievements that exceeded performance requirements, expectations and contributions to junior college athletics and soccer in the United States.

2016—Awarded the prestigious Bill Jeffrey Award in recognition of long-term service and contributions to collegiate soccer.

2016—Only active coach in men’s sports to be selected for the Arizona Community College Athletic Conference Hall of Fame. Pantalione also is a member of the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame.

 

But, larger than Pantalione’s personal honors are those of the teams he and assistant coach Hugh Bell coached through the three decades they worked at YC. Those include seven national NJCAA championships, 78 total championships (conference, regional district and national), 21 national tournament appearances, 19 Final Four national appearances, 28 Arizona Conference titles, and 29 consecutive years of being ranked in the weekly Top 10 National Soccer Polls.

Student-athletes under Pantalione’s leadership number 64 All-Americans, 146 All-Region players, six national Players of the Year and 22 NJCCA Hall of Fame players.

More than 350 of his players moved on to soccer scholarships at major colleges and universities, and dozens played with national teams, Major League Soccer teams and World Cup teams.

Expressing Gratitude to the Coach

Following the announcement of Pantalione’ s retirement, tributes poured in from all over the nation. Former student athletes, fellow coaches, parents and fans let him know of their affection.

Pantalione says he has been contacted by hundreds of former student athletes, many of whom have gone into professional or semi-professional soccer careers, and others into coaching and teaching.

“Coach Pantalione had a legendary career guiding the Roughriders to unparalleled success both on and off the field,” YC President Lisa Rhine said of Pantalione’s years of contributions. “We are proud and honored to celebrate all the achievements he accomplished in the coaching community. We wish him nothing but the best in retirement.”

YC Athletic Director Brad Clifford echoed Rhine. “Words cannot express what Mike has meant to Roughrider athletics. Mike is a true professional in every sense of the word. Mike is a Hall of Fame coach who is well-respected across the world for his soccer knowledge that has made Yavapai College synonymous with soccer.”

The college is sponsoring a public event at 2 p.m., Saturday, March 27, when the recently completed practice soccer field is scheduled to be dedicated as the Michael Pantalione Field. Immediately following the dedication ceremony, the celebration will continue in the YC Community Room, where the new head soccer coach and the new women’s soccer coach will be introduced. Guests need to RSVP in advance via the YC Events pages if they plan to attend.

Pantalione is reported to have recruited soccer players to Yavapai College by telling them that “Yavapai” is a Native American word that means “winning soccer.”

Plans for retirement include:

I am remaining in Prescott. This has been our family’s favorite place. It is home.

Advice I share with fans:

Let us be grateful to people who make us happy. They are the ones who make our souls blossom.

Special people in my life include:

Dedicated student athletes. They’re the ones who scored more than 3,000 goals. I didn’t.

I credit my success to:

Yavapai College. Special acknowledgement is due for allowing me to guide, direct and support every one of my student-athletes during my tenure.

The dates most special to me are:

Nov. 18, 1990, when we won our first national championship and Nov. 18, 2007 – 17 years later, when we won our sixth national championship. QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

Filed Under: Community Profile Tagged With: community profile, Mike Pantalione, soccer, yavapai

Marlboro Man in Action at the Grand Canyon

January 28, 2021 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Some boys do grow up to be cowboys, and some cowboys even grow up to be Marlboro men. Such was the case for Grand Canyon National Park Service (NPS) Wrangler Ed Forbis.

Born on a ranch in Deer Lodge, Montana, from the brim of his hat to his well-worn boots, Forbis is a genuine cowboy. His warm country accent and perfectly-shaped thick cowboy mustache portray the rough cowboy on a bucking horse that he portrayed in Marlboro advertisements.

“I grew up living next to Darrell Winfield, who played the famous Marlboro Man for over 30 years,” said Forbis. “He was a horse trader and he’d have about 300-400 horses on his ranch.”

“After I graduated high school, I went to ride colts for Darrell . He’d pick out young dummies like me to get on them brooks and break them in.”

Further down the road, Forbis was hired by Marlboro to ride bucking horses as a stuntman for Marlboro advertisements and television commercials, a job that lasted 12 years. Footage of Forbis riding a bucking horse with a herd of wild stations not only became popular in the United States, but worldwide.

“When smoking advertisements were banned in the United States, other countries who didn’t have regulations picked up the commercials and ran them,” said Forbis.

“Almost all Marlboro’s commercials had footage of wild horses and a cowboy galloping through. It charmed people,” said Forbis. “Most filming was in Wyoming and other states and some filming was in the ocean on the coast of California. We got beautiful shots, but the waves were cold and almost drowned me.”

“When I tell people about my dad, they kind of listen in [disbelief],” said Forbis’s youngest son, Doug, who works as a Crisis Clinician with Terros Health in Flagstaff. “I’m really proud of my dad and I’ll probably tell people about him the rest of my life. We’re close, but due to work schedules, it’s been hard to see my dad as much as I would like.”

Forbis has another son in Scottsdale and a daughter and three grandchildren who reside in Montana.

Rodeoing is also a Forbis favorite. “Bucking horses, bulls, cattle, roping calves, I do it all and love it,” he said. “I never had a desk job in my life and never will. I work on a horse. If I ever had to quit saddling a mule or horse, I’d be done. I can’t imagine myself doing anything else but what I’m doing.”

The worst accident Forbis remembers is when he got bucked off a horse. “I slipped and fell and we both went down. Then the horse got up and stepped on the back of my head. I got 14 stitches and was back at work.”

As a packer for the National Park Service (NPS), Forbis takes supplies down the South Kaibab and Bright Angel trails, sometimes staying at Phantom Ranch.

“Ed is a great guy and great to work with,” said NPS Lead Packer Chris Clark. “He does a good job and he’s a good friend. He’s been with us for about five years.”

Rambo Three and Stagecoach are two movies that Forbis worked in as an extra.

Created by Leo Burnett Worldwide, the Marlboro advertising campaign is noted as one of the most brilliant advertisement campaigns of all time and achieved the goal of bringing a masculine edge to the filtered cigarette, which were considered feminine.

This Marlboro man, Forbis, never smoked.

I can describe myself in one word: Simple.

My favorite thing to do:

Rodeo. Team-roping with my horse, Angel.

My favorite place to travel:

Mostly in the United States. I don’t need to go anywhere else except maybe Brazil, great beaches. Also, maybe Canada because there’s great fishing there.

My favorite food and restaurant:

Mexican. Plaza Bonita in the romping town of Tusayan.

The actor who will play me in the movie about my life:

Kevin Costner. Costner seems to ride a horse pretty well. That’s one thing I can pick out in Western movies is how well actors can ride. So many of these new guys don’t ride well – and I can catch it. QCBN

By V. Ronnie Tierney, QCBN

Filed Under: Community Profile Tagged With: community profile, Ed Forbis, Grand Canyon, Marlboro Man

Meeting Student, Workforce Needs

November 28, 2020 By quadcities 1 Comment

Closing in on her second anniversary as Yavapai College (YC) president in February, Lisa Rhine shared the major philosophical shift the college is taking.

“We have a new view of how post-secondary education should be structured to meet personal and societal needs,” she said. “We’re putting that vision into place at Yavapai College. Classes and curricula now fit students’ needs instead of making students fit academic policies based on centuries-old tradition.”

YC’s mission is providing students with an education they want and need to enter the job market and find a meaningful career.

“When I first came on campus two years ago, I did a listening tour for the first six to nine months. I tried to meet every person on campus – employees and student groups. I spent time listening and trying to figure out what themes emerged. What I discovered is that we are an institution that serves students, but we weren’t as strong as we should be in relationships that support one another. I knew if we didn’t get those relationships right, we weren’t going to reach the goals we needed to reach to be successful.”

Rhine says she and her administrative team adopted the concept of the “YC Way: relationship excellence, learning excellence and service excellence.”

One change she put into place is a comprehensive management framework to grow enrollment. That involved dividing the student affairs division into student affairs and enrollment management – an infrastructure similar to what exists at many universities. It focuses on identifying prospective students, walking them through the application process, and then supporting them throughout their enrollment.

It paid off. Despite the impact of COVID-19, summer student headcount was up 30%. YC was the only community college in Arizona that experienced an increase in enrollment.

A second major change was the introduction of new academic offerings, including trades programs, transfer degrees and lifelong learning courses. Those include new partnerships with Northern Arizona University (NAU) in education programs and a collaboration with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) in cyber-tech programs.

One unique new program involves the 3D printing and construction of homes. The college purchased two different commercial printers. A small machine, used for training, will print smaller houses of about 900 square feet. The big printer is capable of printing homes up to 2,000 square feet. “What’s remarkable is that the printer can do a complete home in about a month, as opposed to traditional construction, which can take several months,” said Rhine. “In this area, that size home can cost from $400,000 to $600,000 and more. We can do it for between $90,000 and $120,000. We’re the first community college in the nation to have that program. I can’t wait until we get a demo house set up.”

Other curricular changes involve bringing a skilled trades center to the Verde Valley campus, which will provide certificate programs for electricians, plumbers, heating, ventilation and air conditioning technicians, and others.

These changes are the result of the meetings Rhine and her team conducted in the community to understand the greatest needs for residents and employers.

Meanwhile, Rhine says the college worked hard to work keep costs down. As a result, YC has the lowest tuition in Arizona for community colleges and the lowest taxpayer cost per student. “We didn’t want to increase taxes. We didn’t want to increase our budget.”

“We are so fortunate to have Lisa as president,” said YC Governing Board Chair Deb McCasland. “Her commitment to student success is evident.”

Yavapai College has two main campuses – one in Prescott and one in the Verde Valley – and four centers: Career and Technical Center, Chino Valley Center, Prescott Valley Center and Sedona Center.

Rhine, a Brooklyn, New York native, spent most of her younger life in Ohio. She earned her bachelor’s degree in 1988 from Wright State University and her master’s in 1991 from the University of Dayton. She met her husband of 24 years, James “Jim” Rhine when they were working at Sinclair Community College. They married in 1996. With degrees in mathematics, he is currently teaching at Prescott High School.

Rhine earned her doctorate in education administration in 2004 at Capella University in Minneapolis.

The Rhines have two adult sons. Alex, 23, is completing an associate degree at YC and planning to transfer to NAU. Ben, 21, is a junior at Virginia Tech where he’s majoring in building construction.

I am grateful for

I couldn’t have been more blessed. This college has so many intelligent and talented faculty, staff and students.

Something new learned since moving to Arizona

I was nominated to dance in the Dancing with the Stars fundraiser last year. Jim and I signed up for dance lessons. We now do Latin dances – the bachata and salsa – and love it.

What I do in my spare time

I make time for family. For 24 years, I have made it a practice to prepare dinner at home six nights a week. Family is important.

My favorite Christmas tradition

I prepare a large dinner on Christmas Eve and then we attend midnight mass. We share gratitude for the year gone by and our hope for the year to come.

Making the move to Prescott after living in major urban centers

I want Prescott to be my forever home. I hope it’s my last stop on the higher ed train. I’m trying to develop relationships I know are going to be long-term because I don’t plan to go anywhere. I’ve been given an exceptional opportunity. You know, we are genuinely grateful to be here. We’re in awe of the beauty and friendliness of the community. There’s no place I’d rather be. QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

Filed Under: Community Profile Tagged With: community profile, Lisa Rhine, spotlight, YC

Nebeker Selected to Sculpt Bronze Statue Honoring Fallen Officers

August 30, 2020 By quadcities 1 Comment

One of America’s most renowned Western artists, Bill Nebeker, was selected to create a bronze sculpture as a memorial to officers who have lost their lives in service of citizens of Yavapai County.

Nebeker’s selection was announced by the Yavapai Law Enforcement Memorial Committee (YLEMC), chaired by Sheriff Scott Mascher. Nebeker, a lifelong resident of Prescott, said he was humbled and honored beyond his ability to express.

Recognized as one of the nation’s most prominent sculptors of cowboys and horses, Nebeker has been president four times of the prestigious Cowboy Artists of America.

Nebeker was not always famous. He and his wife, Merry, scratched out a modest living in the 1960s and early ‘70s, working at a foundry in Skull Valley created by the late Western artist, George Phippen.

It was not until 1974, when he sculpted a small statue of legendary Western actor John Wayne, that he achieved more than regional recognition. He fashioned the sculpture after an image he had of Wayne from the award-winning movie “The Searchers.” Wayne heard about it, contacted Nebeker and invited him to meet him in Stanfield, a small town near Casa Grande, where Wayne owned a ranch. The Nebekers drove down in their pickup truck.

“We sat on the tailgate and talked to Wayne,” said Nebeker. “He ended up buying a couple of my bronzes. Before long, a lot of Hollywood people knew about me.” His works started selling.

Nebeker credits Merry, his wife of 55 years, with being his main supporter and cheerleader during the lean years when he struggled to make a professional career of Western art. Now, his works are showcased in major museums throughout the United States. Private collectors also have his work. Several European galleries and museums display his art.

On Aug. 9, Nebeker’s largest sculpture ever, “If Horses Could Talk,” was mounted on a roundabout at Deep Well Ranch and Crystal Lane on SR 89 going north out of Prescott. The artwork shows a cowboy peering through binoculars to find a deer while his horse is looking downward under a rock ledge where a buck has hidden.

Remembering Law Officers

His newest sculpture, “Lest We Forget,” will memorialize the estimated 18 Yavapai County law officers who have died in the line of duty since the founding of Arizona Territory.

The memorial features an officer of the 1880s-1900 territorial era portrayed in Western style – a gun belt and holster with historic depictions of a pistol and bullets, wearing old-fashioned trousers tucked into high-topped leather boots. Hat in hand, he’ll look down in honor toward an empty pair of boots signifying fallen officers.

The life-size statue will be mounted on a granite boulder approximately three feet by four feet wide and deep. A smaller boulder in front will be inscribed with names of fallen officers and display a pair of empty old-time boots with spurs on them.

When finished, the sculpture will be located on the Courthouse Plaza in a triangular-shaped raised area near the corner of Montezuma and Gurley Streets. It will be highly visible to thousands of residents and visitors who explore Arizona’s first territorial capital and seat of government.

Nebeker spoke about the memorial’s significance to him. “Several lifelong friends and Prescott High School classmates have been policemen, sheriffs, DPS officers and U.S. marshals. In fact, several of their children now are serving our community, county and state. To create something to honor law enforcement officers is a great opportunity. To have it on the Courthouse Plaza in the town where I grew up and near the famous Bucky O’Neill statue is beyond my wildest dreams.”

Prescott Chief of Police Debora Black commented about the choice of Nebeker to create the memorial: “A memorial dedicated to honor law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice will be a fitting addition to our already beautiful County Courthouse Square. It will allow everyone to pay homage to our fallen heroes. Bill Nebeker grew up in our Prescott tradition. His work embodies the legacy of our Western heritage. I can’t think of anyone better suited to create a memorial reflecting the valuable role peace officers play in our community.”

“This statue at the Courthouse Plaza will remind us all that freedom and peace [are] not free,” said Yavapai County Board of Supervisors Chair Craig Brown.

Nebeker said he hopes to have the memorial completed by January. It currently is being cast by the Prescott Valley foundry Bronzesmith.

No taxpayer dollars are being spent to construct the memorial, YLEMC committee members said. Instead, a fundraising campaign fund has been established for those who wish to contribute.

Best advice I ever received:

Be honest. A man’s word is his bond.

Favorite celebrity to hang out with:

John Wayne, but he’s gone. Now, probably Sam Elliott, with that gravelly deep voice that fits so many of his Western movie characters.

Favorite meal:

No doubt about that. A couple of eggs, over medium, easy, sausage and hashbrowns – every morning of the week.

Best place to vacation:

Big Island, Hawaii, up north where all the cattle ranches are.

Advise for a long, successful marriage:

Lots of hugging and kissing and dancing. And never go to bed at night angry.

Best character quality to pass along to my children:

For more information, visit billnebeker.com

By Ray Newton

Filed Under: Community Profile, Spotlight Tagged With: art, Bill Nebeker, community profile, Prescott Valley foundry Bronzesmith, Sculpture

Prescott Downtown Partnership Has New Executive Director

August 1, 2020 By quadcities 1 Comment

Even with cancelations and postponements of many activities in the greater community, the Prescott Downtown Partnership (PDP) has managed to support and organize several events around the popular Courthouse Plaza.

Much is the result of the determination of the new executive director, MJ Smith. Smith assumed that role in early April after longtime resident Kendall Jaspers retired from the position. Smith praised Jaspers for his passion for Prescott and all he had achieved and initiated during his almost 10 years as leader of the PDP. Jaspers earlier had owned and operated Kendall’s Famous Burgers and Ice Cream, having founded it in 1987 directly across the street from the Courthouse.

Smith brings a wealth of professional marketing and promotional experience to the PDP. She came to Prescott from the Laughlin Tourism Commission, a major non-profit organization that served the gaming and hospitality industry in Clark County, Nevada. She was there 11 years.

Asked why she and her husband, Paul Terry, a chef, and their daughter moved to Prescott, Smith responded, “A PDP board member asked me that same question. My budget with the LTC was significantly larger, and we had year-round activities. But, when I saw the position posting for the PDP, I couldn’t believe my eyes. We’ve been familiar with Prescott for years.  We’ve vacationed in the Quad Cities area many times. We fell in love with the climate, environment and most of all, the friendly hometown community atmosphere.”

But, there’s a bigger reason, MJ explained. “Paul and I chose Prescott because this is where we want to raise our daughter, now 6 years old. This is the kind of lifestyle and childhood experience we want Aoibhinn [pronounced “Aven”] – and that rhymes with raven – to have as a kid. [Her] name is Irish in origin. Her middle name is Isle.”

Smith’s connection to Ireland goes back to when she finished her bachelor’s degree in journalism at the University of Arizona, in her hometown of Tucson. She accepted a correspondent’s job with the Associated Press in Cork, Ireland, the country’s second largest city.  She was there two years.

PDP Role Had Immediate Challenges

When Smith arrived, right away she became involved in meeting challenges created by the pandemic. “Balancing public health and economic health is making us approach things differently. We have had to adapt to a new way of doing business. For many of our 80-plus PDP members, that may mean limiting occupancy and accepting high cost adaptations in order to reopen. We’ve met with Arizona and Yavapai County Health officials, City of Prescott representatives, chamber of commerce members and discussed the most responsible way to handle events.”

During the early July week of Prescott Frontier Days and the World’s Oldest Rodeo, despite cancelation of the parades and dances, Smith and her colleagues worked an 80-hour week. “We wanted to be certain during all the events, including the Fine Arts and Crafts Show around the Courthouse Plaza, that sanitation and cleaning protocols were being observed. We had hand-wash stations and signage everywhere to remind people to be responsible and to respect their fellow attendees.”

Smith is emphatic in her belief about the value of a unified voice such as the PDP. “Small businesses by themselves may not always be the loudest voice in the room, but when they band together and unite in a message, they can effect real change. Tourism is a powerful economic driver and economic tool to attract new business. Strong local support, too, has been a major factor in keeping businesses open.

She says research shows that people associate a higher quality of life with a destination they enjoy during a vacation. “If we in Prescott position ourselves as a quality vacation destination, we’re positioned for strong economic development down the road.”

She said the PDP is already working ahead for events such as the popular Courthouse Lighting, which attracts thousands of people to “Arizona’s Christmas City.”

What quality do you most admire in colleagues and associates?

“Follow-through. Over the years, I’ve worked with people who paint incredible pictures with words but never create anything tangible. I much prefer those who tackle their objectives head-on.”

Who gave you the best advice?

“My dear friend, Jena Morga, told me, ‘It’s not your child’s responsibility to fulfill your dreams. It’s your responsibility as a parent to give your child the tools they need to fulfill their dreams.’”

What is your favorite holiday?

“I love any excuse for wonder and whimsy. St. Patrick’s Day is special at our house. A mischievous leprechaun named Diarmuid McRonnan visits and makes a mess of things, turning everything green. But Halloween also is a big one. I love decorating for the change of seasons.”

What’s your favorite meal?

“Living with a chef has its perks. I love Navajo tacos, fresh seafood, real Mexican food and dessert.”

Where do you go to get away?

“I’m drawn to the ocean. Sand on my feet, salt water in the air, listening to waves as I fall asleep. I am a true thalassophile.” QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

Filed Under: Community Profile Tagged With: community profile, MJ Smith

Clydene Dechert Summons Summer Music on the Square

May 28, 2020 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Music lovers from throughout the Quad Cities are looking forward to another season of rousing band music, especially after having been cooped up for the past three months because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ready to strike the downbeat to open her 23rd season, Clydene Dechert will wave her baton to coax the music out of the talented musicians of the Central Arizona Concert Band (CACB).

“I think people throughout the greater community are going to be ready for some lively music,” she said. “Our band certainly can take care of that need.”

The Prescott Downtown Partnership (PDP) sponsors several summer concerts, the CACB among them. As part of its ongoing programs to bring people downtown, PDP officials say they promote pre- and post-concert shopping, dining and entertainment that businesses offer on and near Courthouse Square.

The band performs its fall, winter and spring concerts at the Davis Learning Center on the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University campus.

Dechert, a professional musician who has performed with major musical organizations throughout the Southwest, smiled broadly when asked how many people have attended concerts she has conducted.

“Truthfully, that would be impossible to estimate. When I think of the dozens of free public concerts the band has played at the Courthouse Square, that alone would amount to thousands over the years. That audience is not just local. I’ve had visitors from all over – even some who are international – come up and tell me how much they enjoyed hearing the kind of music the band performs,” the retired music professor said. “We get hundreds, too, at our ERAU concerts.”

Concerts scheduled by Dechert carry a broad selection of music, ranging from classical to show tunes and contemporary; and always, toe-tapping, hand-clapping versions of popular marches, especially those of John Philip Sousa.

Well-known throughout the Quad Cities area, the New Mexico native lived on ranches in the Land of Enchantment and, later, Arizona. The third generation of a musical family, she began playing the piano at age 4. As a youngster, she also was an active rodeo participant – barrel racing and bull riding. And, as a teenager, she was an African safari hunter.

Dechert earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Arizona State University. She later studied percussion at the Aspen School of Music and was a member of the prestigious Aspen Festival Orchestra. The ambitious Dechert also studied classical conducting with internationally recognized conductors, including Philip Greenberg of the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra.

Prior to coming to Prescott upon retirement in 1995, Dechert served as instrumental music director for the Scottsdale Symphony Youth Orchestra, associate conductor of the Scottsdale Symphony Orchestra, and conductor of the Scottsdale Chamber Orchestra. She also performed in the percussion section of the Phoenix Symphony.

Almost immediately upon arriving in Prescott, Dechert made herself known to local and regional audiences. She has conducted several popular programs such as “Oliver,” “A Chorus Line,” “Damn Yankees,” The King and I,” and “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum.”

Dechert is the principal timpanist with the Prescott Pops Symphony Orchestra. Perhaps her major contribution to community music was when she and the late Bob Boorn founded the CACB in 1997.

“We had no idea then the band would become so popular,” she said. “From those few volunteer local musicians who wanted to play band music until now, we’ve grown to a semi-professional group of 60 or so highly qualified musicians of all ages. I think we’ve created an environment of educational and artistic excellence that gives them and the audience genuine enjoyment.”

The band rehearses regularly in facilities provided by the Franklin Phonetic Primary School in Prescott Valley.

Dechert has earned many honors in her distinguished career and was inducted into the Arizona Music Education Hall of Fame in 2011.

Why do you encourage introducing music to children?

“To make them a more rounded individual.”

What’s your favorite holiday?

“This goes back to our large family gatherings at the ranch in New Mexico. It was then, and still is, Christmas.”

What would be your favorite vacation?

“A nice stay at the historic La Posada Hotel in Winslow, Arizona.”

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

“My mother told me, ‘It’s time to retire after you go to a state retirement meeting.’”

What’s your favorite piece of music?
“‘Crazy,’ by country musician Patsy Cline.” QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

Filed Under: Community Profile Tagged With: community profile, Dechert

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