Stories

Benzie Sunrise Rotary Club members and a Friend of Rotary completed their clean-up of M-115 between Benzonia and Frankfort. The club has adopted a 2.5 section of highway that they clean of trash each year in the spring and fall. 

Charlie Hamlyn is Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for Grand Traverse County, as well as a Traverse City Rotarian. He described commonplace fraudulent schemes and how to avoid them.

On Tuesday we also recognized Benzie Central 7th grader Carson Case for Service Above Self.

Missy Smith is the Parent Liaison for the Great Start Collaborative of Traverse Bay.  A former elementary teacher, Missy has been working with children for over thirty years.

On April 24th Rotarians from both local clubs were on hand with friends to assist the Benzie Conservation District in the annual cleanup at Elberta Beach, part of the Great Lakes Watershed Cleanup.

 

Emily Burrus is the Guidance Counselor at Benzie Central for grades 10-12. She told us about the TRAILS Program and her Virtual Counseling Site.

Jeff Seeley is the Executive Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Graceland Fruit. He served as an adviser before officially joining the Board as Executive Chairman in March of 2019.

Kristi Boettcher, Director of Advocacy for the Women's Resource Center in Traverse City, presented a program today entitled "Domestic Violence 101."

At this week’s meeting, Benzie Sunrise Rotarians learned about the many Rotary Youth Programs including Interact Clubs, the Life Leadership Conference, Youth Exchange, Leadership Camp, and the Youth Protection Policy.   

Dr. Nick Nissley has been the President of Northwestern Michigan College since January of 2020.

Today we recognized Benzie Central High School senior Reeve Katt for her Service Above Self.

Diane Emiling is an Instructor at Northwestern Michigan College.  Her presentation covered implicit bias and structural racism.

Dave Wynne of the Sunrise Rotary Foundation presents Doug Durand, Executive Director of Benzie Senior Resources, with a $2,000 check to support the Resources' Produce Box Program.

At our meeting today we considered ways we can improve our weekly gatherings as we return to in-person meetings.

Sunrise Rotary Friend Kathi Houston was part of the team assisting with the BACN winter food drive at Family Fare Supermarket.

At today's meeting we recognized two Service Above Self winners from Benzie Central Middle School:  Benjamin DeRidder and Grayson Converse.

 

Senior Reeve Katt was one of four Benzie Central high schoolers sharing their experiences under the pandemic.  The others were Devon Harris, Jessica Whaley and Alyssa Brouwer, while Principal Dave Clasen facilitated the discussion.

Barb Termaat is the Executive Director of Newton's Road Northwest, a nonprofit dedicated to STEM-related learning for all youth in the five-county area in Northwest Michigan.

Todd Neibauer is the Vice President for Student Services and Technologies at Northwestern Michigan College.  As such he oversees admissions and other student-related services, including NMC's involvement in the Frontliners and Reconnect Tuition Programs.

Maggie Bacon is the Coordinator of the BEST (Building Educational Success & Training) Benzie County Cradle-to-Career Educational Network.

At our Club Meeting Val brought us up-to-date on a number of things, including the status of the Up North Bike Fest tentatively scheduled for August 21.  By May 1 we hope to be in a better position to determine whether it will be a live or virtual event.

Today's speaker was Ambasssador Robert E. Whitehead, a career diplomat who was called back into service after retiring.   Most of his overseas posts were in Africa.

On January 3 kids from our community had a great time learning how to cross country ski at Crystal Mountain. This was the first session of Crystal Community Ski Club's new Nordic Squirrel program for ages 8 - 10.

Peter Payette is the Executive Director of Interlochen Public Radio and Instructor of Media at Interlochen Center for the Arts. He has had ties with Benzie County his entire life.

Today Keith Krause gave his new member bio.  Keith and his family reside in a Chicago suburb but also have a place on Platte Lake.

Today we received an update from Rick Schmitt, co-owner of The Garden Theater and Stormcloud Brewing Company. A Colorado native, Rick spent 15 years at Crystal Mountain, where Chris MacInnes was his mentor.

The Honorable Barbara Gorman is the retiring Presiding Judge of the Montgomery County [Ohio] Common Pleas Court.  She also presided over the Common Pleas Drug Court, one of the problem-solving courts which were the subject of today's presentation.

The son of Sunrise Rotarian Jack Harnish, Chris Harnish is an Associate Professor of Architecture in Malawi and Director of the Development of Health Centre Protypes for the Malawi Ministry of Health.

Manuel ("Manny") Lamarche is a college advisor, serving as an Americorps member for AdviseMI at Benzie Central and Frankfort High School. He is pictured here with his family.

Dr. Dan McCole is an Associate Professor in the Department of Community Sustainability at Michigan State University.  As such, he is well qualified to describe trends in Michigan tourism.

Dave Mengebier is the CEO of the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation. Today he spoke about the Community Development Coalition of Northwest Michigan.

In 2014 Josh Stoltz became Grow Benzie's first full-time Executive Director.  Along with his other responsibilities Josh has been involved in the development of Volunteer Benzie County, a network of non-profits in Benzie County.

Today retired surgeon and Crystal Mountain resident Chuck Kraus described what it took to obtain a Michigan Historical Marker for the Diamond Crossing and Thompsonville. 

Camille Hoisington is Head of Strategic Projects at Traverse Connect.  Traverse Connect launched the "Michigan's Creative Coast" program this past June "to lead the charge to enhance the creative economy in the Grand Traverse Region."

Benzie County Undersheriff Greg Hubers explained the purpose of Proposal 20-2 on the November ballot.  Proposal 20-2 would amend the Michigan Constitution to clarify that with limited exceptions a search warrant is needed for an officer to search for electronic data.

This week we received an update on Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital from COO Kristi Johnson. Kristi was introduced by James Barker, President of Munson's Southern Regional Hospitals.

 

Kristi reviewed the many medical areas in which Paul Oliver is involved. As a Level IV Designated Trauma Facility, Paul Oliver has received the Guardians of Excellence Award, most recently for 2020. 

 

Ryan Schultz is the Chief Operating Officer of M R Products, Inc. of Copemish.  M R Products is engaged in plastic injection molding and is known as the home of  Mr. Chain.

 

Today we received an update on the Benzie Central Schools from the new Superintendent, Amiee Erfourth. Prior to her appointment Aimee spent 20 years at Betsie Valley Elementary School, the last six as Principal.

Glen Chown is the Founder and Executive Director of the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy.  The Conservancy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that serves Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska and Manistee Counties.

Lisa Peacock, Health Officer for the Benzie-Leelanau Health Department and a member of the Governor's Task Force, provides an update on COVID-19 within Benzie County. Her office prepares a weekly update on their website.

Diane Tracy is the President of the Board of Directors of the Benzie Aquatic Center, a 501(c)(3) looking into the construction of an aquatic and fitness center in Benzie County.

During our Club Assembly we were pleased to induct a new member:  Keith Krause.

 

Barbara Mort is the Executive Director of the Benzie Area Historical Society & Museum. The group's mission is to connect people to our region's past.

Dan Worth is Clean Energy Program Director for the Groundwork Center in Traverse City, successor to the Michigan Land Use Institute. Groundwork is a nonprofit serving residents and communities within a 10-county area in northwest Michigan.

Our Past President Dave Wynne is the President of the Crystal Lake & Watershed Association, a non-profit whose purpose is to protect and promote the natural qualities of Crystal Lake and its surrounding watershed.

Sarah Sanderson received a Rotary Peace Fellowship and was selected to go to Tokyo for two years of training. She currently works for the U.S. State Department as a foreign service officer at a U.S. Consulate in northern China.  She participated in our Zoom meeting from China.

Julia Winter went from being an award-winning chemistry teacher at Detroit Country Day School to the founder and CEO of a start-up known as Alchemie Solutions.

Kimmee Wenkel, co-founder and executive director of the Cognition Science & Discovery Center gave the Sunrise Rotary Club a virtual tour of the new center.  

Today we were honored with a visit from District 6290 Governor Jon Catlin, pictured here with Rotary International President Holger Knaack.

In view of the pandemic our traditional President's Dinner was replaced by a virtual Presidential Transition available in its entirety by clicking here. 

Scott Adams is President of Eaton Corporation's eMobility Division. He gave us an overview of electric vehicles and their future.

Dr. Kara Murphy Gregory is founder and Executive Director of PoWeR! Book Bags--a 501(c)(3) that seeks to empower children to play, write and read to build a better tomorrow.

Today Benzie Sunrise Rotary Foundation President Kris Thomas presided over the Foundation's annual meeting.

Sisters Jaylynn, Chelby, and Mae Talsma, along with Zach Grundy, receive Service Above Self recognition from Val Gerhart. Since the pandemic closed Michigan schools in mid-March, the four volunteers have played a key role in the County's two school districts' delivery of meals to families in need of support. 

 

Bill Tobin, a long-time Rotarian, is Rotary Relations Manager for ShelterBox USA.

We continued to adjust to the new normal with another meeting via Zoom.

Today we moved closer to our usual format with a PowerPoint presentation by Devin Moore, Education & Outreach Coordinator for Aryana Natural Foods.

At our second Zoom meeting Val Gerhart ran the "Getting to Know You" program, with each participant describing another Sunrise Rotarian based on an interview in November.  Well worth repeating!

Today we had our first meeting since February via Zoom.

President Dave Wynne has followed our standard procedure to cancel our meetings when the Benzie Central Schools are closed during the school year.  Our next meeting will be via Zoom on May 5.

Oliver Roberts, Co-Founder, Brewmaster and General Manager of Five Shores Brewing in Beulah shares his passion for brewing.

 

 

Farmer Carol Bontekoe And New Dawn Fields

Joe Tobin runs the SEEDS after-school program for Benzie Central Middle Schoolers, acting as their "fun uncle" (according to Joe's wife).

For our Rotary Minute Jeff Rabidoux reported on his experience on the Club-sponsored trip to the Dominican Republic with local high school students.

Amanda McLaren, Director of the Benzonia Public Library, told us about the library's exciting oral history project.

Sunrise Rotarian Bill Kennis is the Executive Director of the Benzie Transportation Authority.  He gave us the annual report on Benzie Bus and urged us to vote on March 10th on the millage renewal.

Benzie Central 7th Grader Grayson Converse receives Service Above Self recognition from David Sylvester while sponsoring teacher Dan Long looks on.

When Kay Leers first spoke to the Club in 2017, Remain in Touch was new to Benzie County.  She returned today to give us an update on the program that helps incarcerated parents stay in touch with their children.

Today we met at Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital in Frankfort under the guidance of the hospital's Outreach Manager, Stephanie Williams.

Today Patty Higgins, Pastor of the First Congregational Church in Benzonia, gave us an update on Habitat for Humanity in Benzie County.  Patty has been a Board member of the local organization for a year and a half.

Judy Harnish and her Rotarian husband Jack are members of the Legacy Society of Cass Community Social Services, a Detroit nonprofit dedicated to providing food, housing, health services and jobs to those in the community.

 

Benzie Central 12th grader Finn McLaren receives Service Above Self recognition from Benzie Sunrise Rotary's David Sylvester.

 

On December 4th and 5th Sunrise Rotarians returned to Benzie Central to conduct interactive CHOICES workshops with 8th graders.

Today Shaun Anchak returned to give a plug for the Maritime Heritage Alliance while teaching us all to play the harmonica.

Today we went on record as supporting Zonta in saying NO to Violence Against Women.

Shenandoah Chefalo, author of Garbage Bag Suitcase, is herself a survivor of the foster care system.  She is also a faculty member and trainer at the Center for Trauma Resilient Communities--a new initiative by the Crossnore School and Children's Home to help organizations translate the science of trauma and adversity.

President Dave Wynne inducts new members Diane Miller and Chris Hodges.

Benzie Central 8th grader Samantha Grant hears nothing but nice words from teacher Kirsten Cline before receiving Service Above Self recognition from Sunrise Rotary.

On behalf of the Club President Dave Wynne accepts the 2019 Community Impact Award from Doug Durand of Benzie Senior Resources, last year's winner.

Kandi McKenzie is coordinator for the Benzie Area Youth Initiative, which seeks to address issues such as drug and alcohol abuse faced by Benzie County youth.

Phyllis Kladder, Treasurer of the Sunrise Rotary Foundation, presents a symbolic big check to Tim Furbacher of the Crystal Community Ski Club.

Phil and Cindy Cook run Mrs. Mullen's Closet, a nonprofit providing clothing and other items for Benzie County students.

Mary Lane receives Paul Harris Plus One recognition from Club President Dave Wynne.

On October 24 a small but spirited group of Sunrise Rotarians cleaned up our designated portion of M-115.

At our annual breakfast at Benzie Central we gave Service Above Self recognition to 11th grader Seth Wilkinson.

Amanda Elliott is employed by Child & Fanily Services of Northwestern Michigan in its YouthWork program, an AmeriCorps program modeled after the old Civil Conservation Corps.

 

John Wemlinger, local author of the new book Before the Snow Flies, addressed the national epidemic of suicide

 

Troy DeShano, Communications and Special Projects Manager at Michigan Legacy Art Park, gave us an update on the non-profit based at Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa.

For our Rotary Minute we recognized Michelle Russell and Barb Skurdall, relay winners in theTri Up North Triathalon in Frankfort run by Kris Thomas.

Today we had the pleasure of hosting District 6290 Governor Dave Thomas.

When Healthy Harvest returned to Ryan Noonan's farm on September 7th to harvest potatoes, Sunrise Rotary was on board.

Ed Hoogterp, Benzie County Drain Commissioner, spoke about the impact and management of stormwater runoff.

Today Aaron Kaskinen and Karl Putney showed us highlights of Troop #10's recent trip to Alaska, supported by Sunrise Rotary and many others in our community.

 

 

 

Dave Wynne ran our Club Assembly, bringing Club members up-to-date on Club activites.

Alline Beutler is the Site Manager for the Traverse City office of Justice for Our Neighbors (JFON), a network providing free legal and other services to immigrants and refugees.

Today Jacob Ingleston stopped by to provide an update on his status and to receive a $1,000 renewal of his 2018 Choices Scholarship.

Karen Emerson explained that NMCAA is a private non-profit community action agency serving ten counties in northwest lower Michigan (including Benzie County).  Its motto is "helping people by linking services, resources, and opportunities."

Mercedes Michalowski is the Executive Director of the Oliver Center for the Arts. The Center's mission is to "establish and maintain an educational program and facility for the advancement of the arts, and to promote and develop visual, culinary, and literary arts."

Sunrise Rotarian and Advocates for Benzie County President Jack Harnish advised of the Advocates' support for an effort to build affordable housing at the site of the old "question mark" building in Honor.

For today's Rotary Minute Mitch Deisch announced the resumption of the mission in which three area Rotary Clubs take local high school students to the Dominican Republic for a service project.

Amy Somero, Anibal Pepper and Sue Hammon were on hand to talk about about the trip they took last year to Dr. Pepper's hometown of Arequipa, Peru.

Today two Benzie Central graduates stopped by to pick up renewal checks on their 2018 Sunrise Rotary scholarships:  Robby Stewart and Alexis Perry.

 

 

Ranae McCauley, Executive Director of United Way of Northwest Michigan, educated us on the new 2-1-1 program launched in our region last September.

Foundation Treasurer Phyllis Kladder presents a symbolic $3,000 check to Matt Olson, Superintendent of the Benzie Central Schools.  The funds will go toward the purchase of an ice-making machine needed by athletic trainers at middle and high school activities.

Rose Fosdick and Martie Manty share an update on the progress of the Betsie Valley Community Center.

This week's Rotary Minute was provided by Past President Andy Ashworth.

Self-described amateur astrophysicist David Penney gave us a PowerPoint presentation on the improbability of life and humans existing on earth today. 

Paige Cutler thanks the Club for the renewal of her scholarship while Kris Thomas awaits with her check.

Kris Thomas, President of the Sunrise Rotary Foundation, conducted this year's annual membership meeting.

Annabelle Fortine was pleased to receive a check from Steve Mitchell as this year's winner of the Sunrise Rotary Choices Scholarship.

Val Gerhart, Kay Bond and Jason Reed provided an update on the Advocates for Benzie County.

 

Sonny Rodriguez presents a symbolic $2,000 big check to Eric Lilly of the Drop-In Center in Benzonia.

 

Kris Thomas watches as Madisen Miner, this year's winner of the Tim Krause Memorial Scholarship, addresses the Club.

Nick Killian is GOREC's Program & Guest Services Manager. Prior to his present position he was a professional in the Boy Scouts for 14 years (and an Eagle Scout).

Sonny Rodriguez  (on the left) presents a symbolic $2,000 check to Sue Webber of Special Olympics while Sunrise Rotary Foundation Board member Dave Wynne assists.

Kevin D'Alessandro is the TCAPS Early College/Commitment Scholarship Coordinator. He explained NMC's role in the early college program.

Ashley Darga is the Early College Program Specialist for the Traverse Bay Area Intermediate School District.  Among other things, she explained the difference between early college and dual enrollment.

Sonny Rodriguez presents a symbolic check for $1,000 to Joy to Ride's Carol Kraak.

Sponsoring Benzie Central teacher Barry Hahn raves about our modest Service Above Self winner MacKenzie Wysocki while David Sylvester looks on.

Benzie County native Tia Kurina-Cooley was the first of three new members to describe their life histories in a nutshell.

Jim Drubert gave the last of the three new member bios.  Like David, his life history included a chapter in South Bend.

After belonging to three other Rotary clubs, David Oellerich was no stranger to new member bios.  Nevertheless, David said he put in 1,000 hours preparing his 10-minute PowerPoint presentation!

Mark Lagerwey, Associate Director of Business Development at Baker College (and President-Elect of the Rotary Club of Cadillac), described the programs developed by Baker in response to changes in the world of employment.

Brent Boerema is the Principal of the Traverse Bay Area Intermediate School District Career-Tech Center. The Center's goal is to prepare students for careers that won't be outsourced.

Zoe Joy Lozowski, a sophomore at Benzie Central, was the latest to receive our Service Above Self  recognition.

Allan O’Shea is the founder and President of Contractors Building Supply, Inc. in Copemish. He and his company have been in the renewable energy business for nearly 40 years.

Today's program was  about cracking the stigma of mental illness. At the end of the presentation Sonny Rodriguez on behalf of the Club presented a symbolic big check for $1,000  to Stigma Busters Dani, Nick and David to further their efforts.

Michael Musgrave tells how he ended up in Beulah as a new member of Benzie Sunrise Rotary. 

Josh Stoltz, Executive Director of Grow Benzie, gave us an update on his organization's past, present and future.  A native of northern Michigan, Josh became Grow Benzie's first full-time director in 2014 and recently received Rotary Charities' first Changemaker Fellowship.

Benzonia Public Library: Who knew?!

Kimmee Wenkel, President, Provided Update on Cognition

Jack Harnish presented his new member bio on March 12.

Jeff Rabidoux presents newest Club member Tia Cooley with her Rotary pin on March 12.

Ross Stephenson also presented his new member bio on March 12.

On March 19 Payton Moore returned to share her story of her medical mission to Cambodia.

On March 5 the Club was fortunate to learn more about the concepts of permaculture and hugelkultur from area farmer Chad Van Tol who practices both at his Benzie County farm, Cold Creek Permaculture.

March is Reading Month and Rotarians are doing their second round of reading and book giveaways to 1st grade students at the elementary schools in the Benzie Central district.  Betsie Valley Elementary children were thrilled to select their very own book to take home and keep. 

Farmer Carol Bontekoe of Grow Benzie shared the story of her through hike of the Appalachian Trail (AT) from Georgia to Mt. Katahdin, Maine.  And what a phenomenal storyteller she is!

 

Peggy Case is the President of the Michigan Citizens for Water Conservation (MCWC), a grass-roots nonprofit dedicated to water conservation and water justice.  She sees the major threats to water supply as sewage and fertilizers, chemicals, and the oil and gas industry.

David Sylvester presents a Service Above Self Award to Benzie Central 8th Grader Michael Robert Musgrave while father Mike looks on.

Carissa Savage and her husband Nathan Cornell own and operate Lost Lake Farm in Honor. It is a 40-acre tract of woods and fields, with 1.5 acres in vegetable production and an 8-acre pasture for pigs.

On January 24 Dave and Jan Wynne read to 1st and 2nd graders at the Lake Ann Elementary School.

Today we heard from Northwest Michigan Works! staff members (from the left) Susan Ward, Shelly VanderMeulen, Sharon Laraway Gordon, Sue Oseland and Mary Szwed.

Benzie Central High School's Science Olympiad Team was one of the recipients of funds following the Foundation's recent quarterly review of grant applications. Some of the Team members are pictured here with their coach, Jalen Williams. 

Tim Furbacher is the Nordic Program Director of the Crystal Community Ski Club (CCSC). While CCSC has a full slate of programs to bring affordable alpine (downhill) and nordic (cross-country) skiing to local residents, Tim's focus today was on the NordicRocks program for our area's elementary schools.

High School Senior Abby Bretzke receives Service Above Self recognition from Sunrise Rotarian David Sylvester.  At Benzie Central Abby has maintained a 4.0 GPA while being captain of the cross-country, basketball and track teams.

Val Gerhart reads to 1st graders at Betsie Valley Elementary School in Thompsonville. 

Sarah Lucas is the Director of Community Development for Networks Northwest.  A graduate of Eastern Michigan University, Sarah is certified by the American Institute of Certified Planners and has been a practicing planner in Northwest Michigan for over 15 years.

 

On November 29 and 3o Sunrise Rotary conducted CHOICES workshops for Benzie Central 8th graders.

The Michigan ACEs Initiative is a state wide effort to create awareness in communities across Michigan.  The Adverse Childhood Experiences Study demonstrates the correlation between toxic doses of stress hormones in childhood and health outcomes both physical and mental.  As an ACEs Master Trainer Mary Gruman, our speaker today, is charged with bringing this science to decision makers in the hope of creating collaboration to reduce ACEs.

Patty Roth is a social emotional educator for MSU Extension targeting key areas of importance to Michigan.  Today she focused on improving health and nutrition in Michigan residents with Mindfulness as a technique.

Mckai Henry receives Service Above Self Award for November.

Dennis Wiand gave us an update of Zero Gravity's use of drones to assist inland lakes. 

Jim Hamp is Crystal Lake's resident expert on aquatic invasive species, having conducted an aquatic plant survey there over the last several years.

Jane Perrino is the Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinator at the Benzie Conservation District.

Tad Peacock is the Executive Director of the Benzie Conservation District.

Today we inducted two new members:  Jack Harnish (on the left) and Ross Stephenson (on the right).

Our own Clark Brown educated us on the Civil Air Patrol, the all-volunteer civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force.

Today we learned how Kim Simon found his way to Benzie County and Sunrise Rotary.

Jeff looks on as Michael Musgrave addresses the membership after his induction.

Mac Whisner was among the Sunrise Rotarians on hand to help Wayne and Joan Webber provide coats, boots, hats, gloves and socks to Benzie County elementary students.

On October 24 we cleaned up our designated Adopt-a-Highway portion of M-115. A good turn-out of Sunrise Rotarians made for quick work--the whole job in an hour!

Peter Gerhart is a law professor at Case Western University in Ohio. He spoke to us about social morality in law.

Dave Wynne of the Sunrise Foundation Board presents a symbolic check for $2,730 to Al Jongekrijg and Val Gerhart of the Advocates for Benzie County to implement the Dolly Parton Imagination library in Benzie County.

School sponsor Rebecca looks on as Benzie Central senior Annabelle Fortine receives Service Above Self recognition from David Sylvester.

Heather Shumaker explained that Saving Arcadia is a work of narrative non-fiction--non-fiction that reads like a novel.

Gary Gordon was one of the Sunrise Rotarians on hand at Shop-N-Save for the BACN Food Drive.

Before addressing the Club, District Governor Brian Robertson presents Club member Michelle Russell with Paul Harris recognition while Club President Jeff Rabidoux looks on.

Describing herself as a full-time realtor and part-time pharmacist, Jenn Stewart gave us a short version of her life story.

Carolyn Thayer of Plan It Wild explained why it is important to use native plants for shoreline landscaping.

 

Val Gerhart and Mary Ann Behms told us about the Local College Access Network that seeks to encourage youth to pursue post-secondary education. 

Today we inducted Kim Simon into Benzie Sunrise Rotary.

Paul Gerhart was our second AmeriCorps speaker.

A graduate of Michigan Tech, Leah Wachlin was the first of our two speakers.  She spent a year in the AmeriCorps VISTA program, working behind the scenes with students in Manistee.

Our own Dave Wynne told us about the non-profit he and his siblings formed to provide homes and education for indigenous Mayans at Lake Atitlan, Guatemala.

David Oellerich gets welcomed into Benzie Sunrise Rotary by President Jeff Rabidoux.

Becky Ewing began her work at Rotary Charities in 2008 as the Program Officer. She became the Associate Director in 2013, and on July 1 of this year she succeeded Marsha Smith as Executive Director. She has local ties to Benzie County, having recently acquired a place on Little Platte Lake.

Marsha Smith served as Executive Director of Rotary Charities of Traverse City from 1997 until stepping down recently with retirement pending in January of 2019.

 

Alexis Perry is the newest winner of our most prestigious scholarship--a $1,000 scholarship renewable each year for three more years.

Assistant District Governor Jon Carlin was on hand to present Benzie Sunrise with a certificate of Outstanding Service in connection with our support of the youth exchange program.

John Modlin, MD, is the Deputy Director for Polio Research and Development at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. He also has long-time local ties with Crystal Lake.

Tim Evans of Traverse City Home Inspections LLC explained the role of inspections in both commercial and residential real estate.

 

Theil Theil was present to publicize his program about the needs of South Sudan: "The Journey of Undying Hope." 

Following our meeting Bill Anderson presented a symbolic check for $3,000 to John Parkin and Kay Bond of Advocates for Benzie County.

 

A Peace Corps veteran and Washington, DC Rotarian, Carrie Hessler-Radelet is President of Project Concern International (PCI).

Skip Comer receives a $1,000 check from Jeff for Blessings in a Backpack.

In 2015 Marcy Fries was the first winner of a $1,000 Tim Krause Memorial Scholarship.

On a busy morning Jacob Ingleston was recognized as the recipient of one of our Choices Scholarships.

Michelle Thompson, Benzie County Treasurer, educated us on the Benzie County Land Bank Authority for which she is the Chair.

Hailing from Chattanooga, Phil Lambert has been coming to the shores of Crystal Lake for many years.

Jane Perrino and Tad Peacock urged support of the Conservation District's request for a millage renewal on the August 7 ballot.

Robert Stewart won a $1,000 Choices scholarship at Benzie Central this year.

Brayden Huddleston returned today for the first renewal of his $1,000 Choices Scholarship.

Rotarian Chuck Oldanie provided an update on Rotary International's collaborative initiative with Habitat for Humanity that he first told us about two years ago.

Today President Kris Thomas ran the Annual Membership Meeting of the Benzie Sunrise Rotary Foundation. 

Today we inducted another new member:  Jenn Sterling.

At last week's 6th grade awards program we gave the 22 students their Middle School Interact Club key chains. 

Dave Clasen, Principal of Benzie Central's Middle School and High School, gave us an update on the programs Sunrise Rotary has established at the Benzie Central Schools.

On June 6 at a dinner at the Traverse City Golf and Country Club the Zonta Club of Traverse City announced that Kris Thomas had won the 2018 ATHENA Award.

Crystal Mountain CEO Jim MacInnes described how the resort is using more clean energy for everyone's benefit.

President and CEO of the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation Dave Mengebier gave us a GTRCF update.

Paige Cutler returned today for the renewal of her $1,000 Tim Krause Memorial Scholarship.

Robert Downes, author of the acclaimed "Windigo Moon," described life for the Ojibwe Indians in the early times.

Benzie Central Middle School student Natalie Fritz receives Service Above Self recognition from Sunrise Rotarian Trina Garner.

Today we heard from four representatives of the Paul Oliver Living & Rehab Center and Skilled Therapies:  Adrienne Jones, Kathy Pilon, Stephanie Williams and Kristi Johnson (from the left in the photo).

Today we welcomed Phil Lambert as the newest member of Benzie Sunrise Rotary.

Sunrise Rotarian Val Gerhart holds up a basket of bread and other goodies that went to every Benzie Central School to honor the school's educators.

Today we welcomed in our newest member:  Norma Corwin of Elberta.

Nancy Grote and Jennifer Abel head up the Traverse City branch of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, a book-giving program that mails free books to children in participating communities from birth until age five. 

For the last two and a half years Kelly Ottinger has been the Fundraising Coordinator for BACN (Benzie Area Christian Neighbors), a nonprofit that has been serving the community for 35 years.

Benzie Central Senior Lauren Nordbeck receives Service Above Self recognition from Sunrise Rotarian David Sylvester.

Today Sunrise Rotarian Roger Perry gave us a guided tour of Ecuador.

Raised in Midland and a graduate of Ferris State University and Aquinas College, Phyllis Kladder is an accountant for Presto Tech Solutions in Grand Rapids.

A graduate of Benzie Central and CMU, Josh Stoltz became Grow Benzie's first Executive Director eight years ago.

Today Allison Barker received Service Above Self recognition from Sunrise Rotary.

Xavier Verna is the Executive Director of the nonprofit Ramsdell Regional Theatre for the Arts.

Kathi Houston is the Volunteer Services Coordinator at the Family Division of the 19th Circuit Court in Beulah.

A camera-shy Roger Perry receives Paul Harris recognition from Steve Mitchell.

Val and Bruce Gerhart amused the crowd (and each other) with their tag-team new member bios.

Certified Peer Recovery Coach Scott Scholten's job is to offer "A Lifeboat of Hope in a Sea of Despair."

Steve inducts Bruce Gerhart and Val Gerhart as the newest members of Sunrise Rotary and our first husband and wife pair.

Steve Mitchell bestows Service Above Self recognition upon Benzie Central Senior Alex Holmes-Serrano.

Scott Barker narrated a slide show featuring photos from one of the trips he has led to Israel.

On November 30 and December 1 a team of Sunrise Rotarians returned to present the CHOICES program to Benzie Central 8th graders.

Alex Bloye, Director of NMC's Unmanned Systems program, brought a drone that can be used in connection with an agricultural spraying program.

Today we received an update on Benzie Bus from its Executive Director, Sunrise Rotarian Bill Kennis.

Today we inducted our newest member:  Phyllis Kladder. 

David recognizes Elise Johnson for her Service Above Self at Benzie Central Middle School.

David Sylvester bestows Service Above Self recognition upon Benzie Central Senior Abbie Smith.

Jack Segal, Co-Chair of the International Affairs Forum in Traverse City and retired diplomat who served in Russia (among many other places), spoke to a large and engaged audience of Rotarians and guests about our relations today with Russia and its leader, Vladimir Putin. 

Sunrise Rotarians Mitch Deisch and Matt Olson discuss how the Club might become involved in the creation of a Michigan Promise School.

Larry Winter is the Program Coordinator for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program in Northwestern Michigan.

Steve presents Halloween-clad Bob Istnick with his seventh Paul Harris recognition.

Susi Prescott retraced the steps that took her from being a French teacher in Sydney, Australia to the Co-Director of the Elohim School in Arequipa, Peru.

A St. Louis native (and Cardinals fan), Mercedes Michalowski has been Executive Director of the Oliver Art Center for three years.

A retired professor from Clemson, John Bednar has been coming to Crystal Lake since he was seven years old.

Following his presentation to the Club, District Governor Ed Swart and wife Carol received (and donned) coveted Benzie Sunrise aprons from Club President Steve Mitchell.

Kathy Ross, Team Leader for Days for Girls- Benzie, holds up part of the sustainable menstrual kit that her organization produces for girls and women worldwide.

Dennis Wiand developed a business known as Zero Gravity Aerial that uses drones to survey lakes to find aquatic invasive species, among other things.

Carol Kraak of the Benzie County Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau is the founder of Joy2Ride Benzie, a 501(c)(3) that proposes to bring specially designed wheelchair bikes to the Betsie Valley Trail.

Today Clark Brown told us how he became Assistant Pastor at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Benzonia.

Longtime banker Don Jeffery said that Michigan's banks are in great shape today despite the many challenges they face.

Trina Garner told us of the many steps in her career and life.

Gary Gordon gave the first of two new member bios.

Our own Kris Thomas told us what happens in Rotary at the District level.

Ellen Herscher has a PhD from the University of Pennsylvania.  She has taught archaeology at Cornell and the University of Minnesota, and her specialty is the pottery of Cyprus.

Frankfort Rotarian Ned Edwards urged us to vote in favor of the millage request on next week's ballot to support the activities of Benzie Senior Resources.

Michelle Russell presents Devin Neihardt with his $1,250 STRIVE Scholarship.

In 2015 Marcy Fries was the first winner of a $1,000 Tim Krause Memorial Scholarship.

Today Clark Brown became the newest member of Benzie Sunrise Rotary.

Benzie Central graduate Brayden Huddleston attended our meeting to thank the Club for his $1,000 Choices Scholarship (and to pick up his check!).

Alan Marble is a retired DNR Enforcement Officer who chooses to spend part of each summer as a cook at an isolated hunting and fishing camp in Alaska.

Marcin Swierkot, the exchange student from Poland jointly sponsored by the Frankfort and Sunrise Clubs, said goodbye.

Michelle Russell explains why Paul Clulo richly deserved the Paul Harris recognition he received at the President's Dinner.

Joe Hollenbeck is a Frankfort native who is Principal at the Lincoln American School in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Kathi Houston coordinates the Volunteer Program of the Family Division of the 19th Circuit Court in Benzie and Manistee Counties.

Dr. Carol McKee explained that the goal of Community Cats of Benzie County is to eliminate homeless cats in Benzie County through humane intervention. 

Renee Hintz, Executive Director of the Legacy Art Park, thanked us for our support and provided an update on activities at the Park.

William Green was recognized as the 2017 winner of the Tim Krause Memorial Scholarship.

Today Luke Reed was back for the renewal of his 2016 Choices Scholarship.

Skip Comer (far left) and Bev Toomey of Blessings in a Backpack of Benzie County receive a symbolic $1,000 check from Dick Conrad and Davis Sylvester of Sunrise Rotary.

Last year Paige Cutler won a renewable $1,000 Tim Krause Memorial Scholarship; today she returned to have it renewed.

Today Kris Thomas wore three hats:  She reported on the Healthy Harvest food rescue program; she gave a wrap-up on Bike Benzie, and she ran the annual meeting of the Sunrise Rotary Foundation.

Dave Wynne was the first of two speakers explaining the role of the Crystal Lake & Watershed Association.

Retired surgeon Jim Hamp was the second speaker from the Crystal Lake & Watershed Association.

David inducts Trina Garner into membership at Benzie Sunrise Rotary.

Jane Perrino is the Aquatic Species Coordinator for the Benzie Conservation District and the Project Leader for the Aquatic Invasive Species Pathway Project.

Kay Lears describes Remain in Touch, a program that she brought to Benzie County that offers male and female inmates in the Benzie County Jail an opportunity to read books for their children.

Joe Conger, a Son of the American Revolution, gave us a PowerPoint presentation on the 8th Honorary Citizen of the United States:  Spaniard Bernardo Galvez.

Anibal Pepper, an M.D. and Rotarian, and wife Ann gave us an update on their recent trip to Peru.

Tim Bannister and Ric Robb listen to comments following their presentation on the non-profit known as Advocates for Benzie County.

Kris Thomas told us why she feels compelled to support the Rotary Foundation.

When we presented Career Days at Benzie Central, Norm Labadie was part of the Rotary team meeting with 7th graders.

Sporting their Dominican shirts, Benzie Central sophomores Thea Gray, Abby Bretzke and Bella Huddleston report on their recent trip to the Dominican Republic, a Rotary International Mission sponsored by the Rotary Clubs of Gaylord, Manistee and Benzie Sunrise. 

David Sylvester presents Benzie Central senior Sam Snow with Service Above Self recognition.

Dave Wynne was the second new member to talk about his life.

Today Pat Kiely gave the first of two new member bios.

Scott Gest, a research analyst for Networks Northwest, joined the Club today to share a bit about the work being done by his organization to support quality of life in our area. 

this is a test story

Benzie Central School District Superintendent and Sunrise Rotarian Matt Olson updated the club on the upcoming School Millage Vote.

Amanda McLaren and her daughter Sophie joined our club meeting to update us on all that is happening at the Benzonia Public Library.

This week's club meeting was held at the Benzie Central Middle School where Rotarians, Teachers, Students and Administrators discussed the partnership between the Benzie Sunrise Rotary Club and Benzie Schools.

 

Middle School Student Victoria Cobb receives the Service Above Self Award from Club President David Sylvester.

Club Member Mac Whisner tells his story at this weeks club meeting.

Benzie Sunrise Rotary President David Sylvester and Sunrise Rotarian Mac Whisner welcome the clubs newest member, Pat Kiely.   

Ingemar Johannson, President of the Honor Area Restoration Project, told us about HARP's ongoing project to acquire a 52-acre parcel of property adjacent to the Platte River.`

Sonny Rodriguez sponsored his son Vince as the latest addition to Benzie Sunrise Rotary.

Coda Mix, a senior at Frankfort High, told us about her year as a Rotary International exchange student in Greenland.

David Sylvester presents a Service Above Self award to Benzie Central Senior Olivia Brian.

Nature photographer Charles St. Charles III told us about his ambitious project to capture the natural world throughout the continent with time lapse cameras and live video.

Today we gave Service Above Self recognition to Reeve Katt of the Benzie Central Middle School.

Sunrise Rotary Foundation Board member Dave Wynne presents a symbolic check for $2,030 to Kimmee Wenkel of COGnition Science & Discovery Center in Beulah.

Amy Green from Frankfort High gave a PowerPoint presentation on her year in Brazil as a Rotary International Exchange Student.

Amiee Erfourth, Principal of the Betsie Valley Elementary School in Thompsonville, gave us an update on the RIF (Reading is Fundamental) Program, as well as a description of the ongoing project to create the Betsie Valley Neighborhood Center.

History teacher Scott Kubit thanked the Club for its support of the annual trip to Chicago for Benzie Central juniors that he has organized the last seven years. 

Barb Skurdall presents Howard Herron of the Benzie Central Athletic Boosters with a symbolic check for $20,000 for "Back the Track," as track coach Asa Kelly looks on.

Bob Roelofs of the Benzie County Veterans' Committee returned to give us an update on the Memorial that opened on Veterans Day in 2016.

An exchange student sponsored jointly by the Frankfort and Sunrise Rotary Clubs, Marcin Swierkot gave us a short primer on the history of Poland, followed by a discussion of his life as an exchange student living in Frankfort.

David formally inducts Matt Olson as the newest member of Sunrise Rotary, ending with the presentation of the not-so-formal blue apron.

David bestows Service Above Self recognition upon Benzie Central High School senior Joey Johnston.

Today we welcomed back Al Bonney to hear about the Rotary Foundation.

 

Under the category of "Better late than never," Dick Conrad gives Paul Harris recognition to Barb Skurdall.

This week we returned to Benzie Central to present the CHOICES program to 8th graders.

Melinda Hollands told how she became involved with Ski for Light, a non-profit that seeks to enhance the quality of life and independence of visually or mobility-impaired adults through cross-country skiing.

David Sylvester presents Service Above Self recognition to Benzie Central 8th grader Skyler Kennedy.

Matt Olson, the new Superintendent of the Benzie Central School District (and prospective Sunrise member) filled us in on the state of the Benzie Central Schools.

 

Kimmy Wenkel told us about the new children's museum that will be opening shortly at 244 S. Benzie Blvd in downtown Beulah.

Erin House said that the Child & Family Services' Safe Haven Supervised Visitation and Exchange Program is looking for new sources of revenue after losing its federal funding.

Retired teacher Kris Dykstra maintains the library at Crystal Lake Elementary School, as well as creating monthly reading themes and engaging students in story time each week.

Lisa Vogler, attorney for a group known as Taxpayers for the Maples, spoke about the problems surrounding the Maples building project.

Larry Ross helps a youngster try on a new coat at the Wayne and Joan Webber Foundation annual distribution of winter outerwear to Benzie County elementary students at the Platte River Elementary School.

Linda Dewey took over from her late father William as President of the Kassel Mission Historical Society, a 501(c)3) organization dedicated to the men who fought in what became known as the Kassel Mission of September 27, 1944.

Executive Director Glen Chown founded the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy in 1991 with a $100,000 grant from Rotary Charities.

Michelle Russell  told us all about the "Pathways for Benzie Youth" grant of $2,500 that we received from the Consumers Energy Foundation.

David presents Service Above Self recognition to Benzie Central senior Bethany Barker.

Today Frankfort Rotarian Dick Lutz introduced us to Marcin Sweirkot, the inbound exchange student from Warsaw, Poland jointly sponsored by the Benzie Sunrise and Frankfort Rotary Clubs.

Colby Taylor is the founder of Covenant Defense, a faith-based cooperative network operating out of Traverse City.  Its focus is to educate people and to equip them with the knowledge and skills to preserve their safety and community.

Kurt Bard, a financial adviser at State Savings Bank in Frankfort, is also a long-time member of the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association. Kurt showed us a short video about NAVHDA and talked about training and working with hunting dogs--clearly a passion with him.

A retired Air Force pilot from Texas, Boyd Clampitt moved to Michigan in 1996. Since then he has run marathons, hiked the Appalachian Trail and climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro. Today he took us from one end of the Appalachian Trail to the other.

Gabe Kennis, Michael Shaub and Eryk Feala from BSA Troop 267 returned to report on the trip they took to Alaska with the help of Benzie Sunrise Rotary and many other generous supporters.

BACN Fundraising Director Kelly Ottinger led a tour of the facilities and answered many questions about the organization's numerous services for BACN neighbors.

Today volunteer Lynne Bekkering welcomed us to the BACN facility, starting off on the right foot by donating a happy dollar to the Club in thanks for our support.

Today we welcomed Gary Gordon as a new member.

Marcus Matthews is a Certified Personal Trainer who heads up Crystal Mountain's Peak Fitness Center.

Stephanie Scott is the Director of the Crystal Mountain Spa.

Veteran pilot and Frankfort Rotarian Jim Radabaugh described the September 2015 trip that he took wife with Pam to many of the national parks in the west, showing us many great photos both from the air and from the ground.

Today's featured speaker was John Wemlinger, author of "Winter's Bloom," a self-published novel based on "bits and pieces" of his life.

Our featured speaker today was John Wemlinger, author of "Winter's Bloom," a self-published novel based on "bits and pieces" of his life.

Today we met the new Superintendent of the Benzie County Central Schools, Mathew Olson.

 District 6290's new District Governor is Gernot Runschke, an architect from the Rotary Club of Grand Haven.

David announces that Bill Parris has received Paul Harris Recognition Plus Five.

Kris Thomas advises Marcy Fries, first winner of the Tim Krause Memorial Scholarship, that the Club will extend her scholarship annually.

Bill Kennis brought several of his Boy Scouts to thank the Club for its support of the Troop's trip to Alaska that will get underway shortly.

Injury Prevention Coordinator Jennifer Ritter told us about Safe Kids North Shore and its mission to prevent unintentional injuries.

Wrapping up her time as a Rotary Exchange Student in Benzie County, Dhea Dhiafira gave us her concluding report.

Rachelle Bishop provided an update on the year she spent as a Rotary Exchange Student in Portoveijo, Manabi, Ecuador.

Benzie Central grad Kileen Moore came to our meeting to thank the Club for the Choices scholarship that she was awarded and to accept the $1,000 check from David.

Sonny receives Paul Harris recognition from Kris Thomas for personifying "Service Above Self."

Logan Jones, Tyler Iverson, Jimmy McLaren and Finn McLaren from the Benzie Central Middle School Odyssey of the Mind Team came to thank Benzie Sunrise Rotary for its financial support this past year.

When David took the helm at the first meeting of the new Rotary year, he had plenty of support--including that of Tiffany and Adaline.

Chuck Oldanie, Tampa Bay realtor and Rotarian, told us about the global collaborative initiative that is building homes in Mumbai, India and in other places around the world.

Benzie Central Senior Paige Cutler thanks the Club for the $1,000 Tim Krause Memorial Scholarship that she won.

Dick Conrad reports on our latest success:  the 6th Annual Golf Outing to Benefit Area Youth held over the weekend at Crystal Lake Golf Club.

Benzie Central Senior Luke Reed thanks the Club for the $1,000 scholarship that he received.

Lisa Tiesworth, Safenet Prevention Specialist for Centra Wellness, was largely responsible for obtaining the initial funding for the Initiative.

Karen Larsen was the first of two speakers describing the program underway to reduce issues like drug or alcohol abuse among Benzie County youth.

 

Barb handles the induction of our newest member:  Mac Whisner.

 On behalf of the Club Sonny Rodriguez presents a check for $1,000 to Sue Webber, his successor at Special Olympics.

Kileen Moore, Luke Reed and Paige Cutler were pleased to receive Sunrise Rotary scholarships at Benzie Central's Senior Class Night.

Josylin Thompson also received a STRIVE Scholarship, as did Justin Hawkins, who was unable to attend. 

Jessica Priest receives one of the Club's three STRIVE Scholarships from Michelle Russell.

Andy Ashworth went from a high school athlete in Brooklyn, Michigan to a Certified Financial Planner and President of Sunrise Rotary.

Bill Anderson succeeded in a big way at Hope College despite what he described as an undistinguished high school career in his hometown of Owosso.

Roger Perry fields questions about Cuba today.

Benzie Central Middle School student Grant Hackbarth receives Service Above Self recognition from David Sylvester.

Doug DeYoung, Public Affairs Area Manager for Consumers Energy, presents a $2,500 Pathways for Youth grant to Barb while grant-originator Michelle looks on.

Executive Director Phil Ellis explained that the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation exists to facilitate, promote and serve philanthropy and permanent endowments, enhancing the quality of life in its five-county region.

Before Marlene left she introduced her successor, Dave Schaffer.  After a few brief remarks Dave promised Barb that he would return in a year to provide another update.

Marlene Wood, retiring Benzie County Recycling Coordinator, provided an update on recycling in Benzie County.

Sonny Rodriguez presents a 1st place plaque to Bill Kennis, Mitch Deisch and Ted Schendel, members of the the Club's winning team at the Benzie Dodgeball Tourney.  Not pictured is Andy Ashworth, who was responsible for the winning catch and throw.

Barb inducts our newest member, Renee Olah.

Brad Dean, Director of Golf at Crystal Mountain since 1994, returned to give us an update on The First Tee of Northern Michigan.

Barb pins a badge on Sunrise Rotary's newest member, Bob Dunn.

The Regional Foster Care Initiative is the brainchild of Hon. Nancy Kida, retired Benzie County Judge.

Marc Murphy, Executive Director of Northern Family Intervention Services, introduced today's topic with an exercise for all in attendance.

Paul Clulo shared his life story with our club.

Club Member Kris Thomas shared her life story with the club.  

Club President Barb Skurdall presents new member Monica Cole her Rotary Pin.

Marilou Schlotterbeck educated our club members on the Benzie County Baby Pantry.

The Club held its annual meeting at Benzie County Central Middle School.   The meeting was well attended by not only members of our club but by School Board Members, Administration, Faculty, Parents and Students.  

Finn McLaren was awarded the Middle Service Above Self Award.

Dr. Jane Millar, a former Rotary International District 6290 District Governor, visited our club from Petoskey to let us know about the upcoming Council on Legislation which will convene in April.

Dr. Anibel Pepper visited our club with a brief update on what has been happening in Arequipa, Peru and at the Elohim School.   

Chelsea Dunham receives the Service Above Self Award from David Sylvester.

John Ruggles joined our club meeting to tell us about Eagle Village.  John is a Rotarian from the Big Rapids Rotary Club and also volunteers his time traveling around the state educating others about Eagle Village.

Dr. Louis Yock, Director of the Benzie Area Historical Museum, spoke to us about the development of religious denominations in our country.

Mitch Deisch, Benzie Sunrise member formerly with Manistee Rotary, told us about the recent humanitarian trip to the Dominican Republic jointly sponsored by the Gaylord and Manistee Rotary Clubs.  The recent trip was the 19th for the Gaylord Club and the 8th for Manistee Club.

Sarah Anderson (with assistance from husband Richard) gave us a slide show about the farm-based distillery that her family is opening outside of Thompsonsville.

Bob Roelofs told us about the project to honor Benzie County veterans with a new memorial in Benzonia.

Bailey LaPan receives Service Above Self recognition from David Sylvester.

Today we honored Elizabeth Loveland for her service above self as a Benzie Central Middle Schooler.