Bob Sutherland of the Cherry Republic

Bob told of growing up and playing high school basketball in Leelanau County. Even today he savors his school's home-and-away victories over arch-rival Frankfort one year. He still lives in Leelanau County, where he became the County's youngest Commissioner at age 30 (a position he was happy to relinquish!).

 

When Bob founded Cherry Republic, he was literally selling tee shirts out of the trunk of his car. He attributes his company's success to holding to core values--summarized under the categories of life, liberty, beaches and pie. Each year the company donates 1% of its sales to causes the company believes will have a positive influence in its region. This year that translates to about $1 million.

 

Bob concluded by telling of his personal adventure this winter--a trek across the ice to South Manitou Island. Since this was a trip that his father had attempted in 1975, it was an emotional venture that Bob and his companions accomplished. When asked he would do differently next time, Bob said "I'd enjoy it more!"--an approach that he would endorse for all aspects of life. (Click on picture for a larger view.)