Books, Beards, and Being a Bright Spot in our Community - Elkhart Rotary Club September 25

It was a great day to be a Rotarian, welcoming fellowing Rotarian Carl Dickerson from the Cantonment Rotary Club in Florida. Carl founded Dickerson Literacy Initiatives and shared about Rotary International Projects in Costa Rica.
 
 
Dickerson Literacy Initiatives, LLC (DLI) is a specialized consulting company that designs literacy projects. We work with individuals, businesses, literacy foundations, churches and civic organizations to create and develop literacy projects which benefit children. Our projects support literacy, encourage a love of reading, raise awareness, strengthen and inspire community unity through collaboration. DLI donates well written and beautifully illustrated new books to support the reading initiative set forth in each literacy project. Age and culturally appropriate titles are carefully selected and approved for donation to school libraries, classrooms and given directly to children to create home libraries.  
DLI projects include: 
  • Reading to and with children 
  • Encouraging a love of reading
  • Creating opportunity and special memories with role models
  • Strengthening the communities we serve
  • Collaborative structure and design to make a significant impact
  • Initiatives to raise awareness and create unity
  • Sustainability
  • Fun and memorable presentations
  • Improving reading proficiency 
  • Promoting the continued growth of Rotary through collaboration
  • Marketing for our sponsors and all those involved
  • Preventing the Summer Slide
  • Special events around National holidays with educational resources
  • Donating new, high quality books to support a reading initiative
  • Investing in our most precious resource, children

Today's illustrious Sergeant was Bill Rieth, raising funds that support our local not for profit partners through Rotary Grants made in the spring.

Bill shared some incredibly important information about some September holidays... Including:

  • Beard Day! For thousands of years guys all had beards. There were no shaving kits or shaving cream. The idea of shaving didn’t start until around 4,000 B.C., when a rudimentary form of shaving cream was developed by Sumerians in Mesopotamia (located in present day Iraq.). The cream was made from animal fat and ash!
  • Fortune Cookie Month! Fortune cookies most likely were created by a Japanese man named Makoto Hagiwara in 1914 in San Francisco. Hagiwara owned what is now called the Golden Gate Park Japanese Tea Garden, where he served tea and fortune cookies.  
  • National Stupid Question Day! Teachers say there is no such thing as a stupid question.... but maybe there are exceptions. In honor of National Stupid Question Day, enjoy these thought-provoking ponderances:
    • Why do people push harder on a remote-control button when they know the battery is dead?
    • Why do they call it “getting your pet fixed” if afterward, not everything works any more for your pet?
    • If a kid refuses to sleep during nap time, are they guilty of resisting a rest?
    • If you try to fail, and succeed, - which have you done?
    • What is another word for “thesaurus?”
    • Why is it that if you donate a kidney, people love you.  But if you donate five kidneys, they call the police?
    • Do zombies eat brains because they’re hungry for knowledge?
    • If corn oil is made from corn and vegetable oil is made from vegetables. What is baby oil made from?

Rotarians are an integral and engaged part of our community! The following is a running list of events represented by Rotarians from the Elkhart Rotary Club. If you’d like more information, contact the Rotarian from the event or email elkhartnoonrotary@gmail.com and your message will be forwarded to them.

  • September 27, 4 p.m. Life Enhancement-Literacy Link “Read With Me’ session with the Red Ribbon Rookies. Location: Prairie Street Mennonite Church, 1316 Prairie Street, Elkhart. We could ALWAYS use more Rotary Readers! Contact: Jim Snodgrass
  • September 28, 6 p.m. Page to Stage District 6540 Grant Project with the Elkhart Public Library! We will be performing at the Elkhart Public Library Atrium. Come watch the show for FREE or maybe come early to help us set up as we transform the Library into a Magical Garden Set for these talented youth to edu-tain us all! WE REALLY NEED VOLUNTEERS  for this event: 3-4 people to help with set up, handing out programs, and selling concessions (5-6:15 p.m.) and another 3-4 people to help sell concessions and tear-down/clean up (6:15 – 7:30ish). Those interesting in helping should contact Lisa as soon as possible.Contacts: Julie Cotton and Lisa Guedea-Carreno
  • September 29, gates open at 4 p.m. Five Star Life presents Horses & Heroes. Bust out your cowboy boots and get ready for an evening full of equine demonstrations, live music, food, drinks, face painting, crafts for the kids, and more! Bring your kids, grandkids, family and friends! All proceeds raised will support Five Star Life's Equine Program. Location: Summit, 14260 US 12, Union, MI 49130. For more info and to RSVP visit https://form.jotform.com/232145026918151 Contact: Larry Knight
  • October 6-7, 6-9 p.m. Garden of Villains. Heroes and Villains invade Wellfield! Presented in partnership with the Hall of Heroes Superhero Museum, this Halloween-themed event combines the natural beauty of Wellfield with your favorite superheroes and villains and the fun of trick-or-treating. Full details and tickets at: https://wellfieldgardens.org/garden-of-villains-at-wellfield-botanic-gardens/ Contact: Eric Garton
  • October 7, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Freedom Walk. Join the Goshen Rotary  as they partner with Destiny Rescue to walk our way to rescue kids from sexual exploitation and human trafficking and help them stay free! Location: Goshen High School Track, 401 Lincolnway East in Goshen. Info and registration at https://freedomwalkgoshen2023.funraise.org/ Contact: Terri Rickel
  • October 8, 2-4 p.m. First Presbyterian Church Reception for Jim and Vernease Pyles - long term Elkhart residents and Morning Club Rotarian charter member. The Pyles are moving to North Carolina after a long and distinguished career as part of the Elkhart community, Jim with Miles Laboratories, and Vernease with Elkhart Community Schools Medical staff. Friends are hosting an informal reception in their honor. 200 East Beardsley Ave.  (adjacent to Ruthmere Mansion). Contact: Andy McCaskey
  • October 14, 7 p.m. Elkhart County Symphony and Goshen Theater present the concert version of Meredith Willson's "The Music Man". For more information and tickets visit https://elkhartsymphony.org/ Contact: John Hill
  • October 21, 9 a.m. Elkhart Rotary Club County Road 6 Cleanup! Meet in the parking lot at 3414 Co Rd 6, Elkhart, IN 46514. Signup with/Contact: Tom McArthur
  • October 21, doors open at 5 p.m., dinner at 6 p.m. The Center for Community Justice (CCJ) invites you to the Restorative Justice Award (RJA) Dinner, celebrating the 45th anniversary of the first Victim Offender Reconciliation Program in the United States. Location: Matterhorn Conference Center. For more information and tickets visit https://www.centerforcommunityjustice.org/ Contact: Irwin Larrier
  • November 16, 5:30 p.m. Social, 6:15 p.m. Dinner. District 6540 Foundation Fundraising Dinner at the Crystal Ballroom in Elkhart. The event is seeking silent and live auction items, donations, and sponsors. Guest Speaker is John Smarge, Rotary International Director 2010-2012 and RI-USAID Partnership Steering Committee 2021-2024. Contact: Terri Rickel
Books, Beards, and Being a Bright Spot in our Community - Elkhart Rotary Club September 25 Eric Garton 2023-09-25 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary September 18, 2023 - Mark Mow, Interim Superintendent ECS

On Monday we welcomed Mark Mow - Interim Superintendent of Elkhart Community Schools. The School Board approved Mow as interim superintendent in July. He replaces ECS superintendent Steve Thalheimer, who departed the district in June. Mow previously served as the district’s superintendent form 2002 until his retirement in 2012. He began with Elkhart Community Schools in 1970 as a middle school science teacher and served in multiple administrative position before becoming superintendent in 2002. Mow also served as interim superintendent for the district from July to December 2018. 
Mark shared the district is beginning their search for a new superintendent, the challenges and opportunities we face not only a school district, but as a community.
 
Today we welcomed two NEW ROTARIANS to our Club!
Priscilla Brown of Beacon Health Foundation and Natalie Evans of Crossroads United Way were inducted and provided brief introductions of themselves from the podium. We look forward to getting to know Priscilla and Natalie better and thank them in advance, for their service to our community.
 
Rotarians are an integral and engaged part of our community! The following is a running list of events represented by Rotarians from the Elkhart Rotary Club. If you’d like more information, contact the Rotarian from the event or email elkhartnoonrotary@gmail.com and your message will be forwarded to them.
  • September 21, 5 p.m. at Elkhart Rotary Club Thirsty Thursday! Jackson Rooftop. Contact: Peter Norton
  • September 21, 3-6 p.m. “Demystifying Digital Transformation” Bring Technology to Your Operations. Join manufacturing and technology experts as they break down the myths and obstacles to integrating Industry 4.0 technologies into your organization. It is easier than you think! This event is open to all manufacturers and entrepreneurs, regardless of size and capabilities. To learn more, visit: https://loom.ly/WvhKiaU3-3:30 p.m.: Networking; 3:30-5 p.m.: Presentations from industry experts; 5-6 p.m.: Cocktails and Q&A. Location: LEX 530, 530 E. Lexington Avenue, Elkhart. Depending on your organization, the right attendee might be: -Decision maker of factory floor production; -Company leadership; -Plant/Operations manager; -Technology specialist. Contact: David Damerow.
  • September 23, 9 a.m. 2nd Annual Larry Roberts and Bob Lindahl Bike Ride; location: Studebaker Park, 1020 McDonald St, Elkhart, IN 46516; Help raise awareness and money for a cure for Multiple Myeloma. The ride goes along the new River Trail to the Maplehart into Goshen connecting with the Pumpkinvine to Mooys, an Amish Ice Cream shop located about 6 miles northeast of Goshen on the Pumpkinvine. Total distance is about 36 miles but shorter rides are also an option. Contact: Don Stohler
  • September 27, 4 p.m. Life Enhancement-Literacy Link “Read With Me’ session with the Red Ribbon Rookies. Location: Prairie Street Mennonite Church, 1316 Prairie Street, Elkhart. We could ALWAYS use more Rotary Readers! Contact: Jim Snodgrass
  • September 29, gates open at 4 p.m. Five Star Life presents Horses & Heroes. Bust out your cowboy boots and get ready for an evening full of equine demonstrations, live music, food, drinks, face painting, crafts for the kids, and more! Bring your kids, grandkids, family and friends! All proceeds raised will support Five Star Life's Equine Program. Location: Summit, 14260 US 12, Union, MI 49130. For more info and to RSVP visit https://form.jotform.com/232145026918151 Contact: Larry Knight
  • October 7, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Freedom Walk. Join the Goshen Rotary  as they partner with Destiny Rescue to walk our way to rescue kids from sexual exploitation and human trafficking and help them stay free! Location: Goshen High School Track, 401 Lincolnway East in Goshen. Info and registration at https://freedomwalkgoshen2023.funraise.org/ Contact: Terri Rickel
  • October 8, 2-4 p.m. First Presbyterian Church Reception for Jim and Vernease Pyles - long term Elkhart residents and Morning Club Rotarian charter member. The Pyles are moving to North Carolina after a long and distinguished career as part of the Elkhart community, Jim with Miles Laboratories, and Vernease with Elkhart Community Schools Medical staff. Friends are hosting an informal reception in their honor. 200 East Beardsley Ave.  (adjacent to Ruthmere Mansion). Contact: Andy McCaskey
  • October 14, 7 p.m. Elkhart County Symphony and Goshen Theater present the concert version of Meredith Willson's "The Music Man". For more information and tickets visit https://elkhartsymphony.org/ Contact: John Hill
  • October 21, doors open at 5 p.m., dinner at 6 p.m. The Center for Community Justice (CCJ) invites you to the Restorative Justice Award (RJA) Dinner, celebrating the 45th anniversary of the first Victim Offender Reconciliation Program in the United States. Location: Matterhorn Conference Center. For more information and tickets visit https://www.centerforcommunityjustice.org/ Contact: Irwin Larrier
Rotary September 18, 2023 - Mark Mow, Interim Superintendent ECS Eric Garton 2023-09-18 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club at ETHOS - Monday, September 11, 2023

Today we took the show on the road to ETHOS Innovation Center! The club gathered for a brief business meeting and delicious boxed lunches from Matterhorn before learning about ETHOS Innovation Center and their ETHOS in a Bag program, culminating in a hands-on project to help stock the ETHOS in a Bag kits. And to #CelebrateCommunity, today we also welcomed members of the Elkhart Luncheon Optimist Club who joined us at ETHOS and our service project in order to further a spirit of cooperation and community among our area service clubs.
 
ETHOS' Core Values: 
  • Entrepreneurship: ETHOS fosters a culture of STEM innovation and healthy risk-taking to allow for success.
  • Innovation: ETHOS believes in staying curious, adventurous, and creative in all pursuits. 
  • Community: ETHOS is focused on being a asset in promoting STEM learning and careers in our community​.
  • Relationships: Relationships are key in helping learn, play and connect STEM to the world.
 
Megan Baughman, CEO, presented a thorough overview of the ETHOS in a Bag program, complete with handouts on the tables.
 
ETHOS in a Bag is a take-home STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math) series aimed at families with children between K-6th grade. Each bag contains activities that expose children to STEM concepts in real life and the community, by following along with videos on Youtube Live!
 
After lunch, club members volunteered to help prepare ETHOS in a Bag kits in their expansive onsite warehouse.
 
 
 
Elkhart Rotary Club at ETHOS - Monday, September 11, 2023 Eric Garton 2023-09-11 04:00:00Z 0

August 28, 2023 - Cory Hildebrandt and Matthew Anderson - AI/ChatGPT

 
Today we welcomed attorneys Cory Hildebrandt, Associate, and Matthew J. Anderson, Senior Associate from May, Oberfell, and Lorber and they shared some of the challenges and strengths of AI/Chat GPT. 
 
AI is not a single technology. It exists in many different forms through different functions and applications. Some examples of AI include:
  • Natural language processing (NLP), Logical AI/inferencing, which creates decision trees based on user input, such as online tax preparation programs.
  • Machine learning, which is AI that learns from its past performance, such as predictive text.
  • Artificial neural networks, for instance, used in image recognition technology.
  • Machine perception and motion manipulation, for instance, used in industrial robotics.
  • Generative AI technologies, such as ChatGPT, that often utilize large language models (LLMs)
AI technologies can be used to perform various functions, including:
  • Content generation, including text, video, audio, and computer code/
  • Expertise automation.
  • Image recognition and classification.
  • Speech-to-text and text-to-speech conversion.
  • Text analytics and generation.
  • Voice-controlled assistance (like Amazon Echo and Google Home).
  • Language translation
CHALLENGES
A recent case, Cruz v. Raymond Talmadge d/b/a Calvary Coach, involved a GPS device, which is a common AI-driven device. In Cruz, the plaintiffs were injured when a bus struck an overpass. The plaintiffs brought claims against the manufacturers of the GPS devices used by the bus driver based on traditional theories of negligence, breach of warranty, and strict liability. The plaintiffs alleged that the devices were defectively designed because they:
  • Directed the driver to follow a route under an overpass that was too low for the vehicle.
  • Failed to warn the driver of the dangerous situation created by driving underneath the overpass.
  • The plaintiffs claimed that their injuries were foreseeable because faulty directions onto height restricted roadways by GPS devices have resulted in numerous bridge strikes. Additionally, plaintiffs claimed that feasible alternative designs existed because the device manufacturers had the data necessary to give users information about height restrictions. 
The Cruz plaintiffs based their claims on traditional product liability principles. Given the semi-autonomous nature of the GPS devices at issue, the plaintiffs' claimed injuries could be traced back to:
  • Design components that were developed by specific companies and substantially unchanged from the time the devices left the companies' control.
  • The companies' alleged failure to adequately warn about foreseeable dangers of their products.
However, applying product liability concepts is less straightforward when the product at issue incorporates more fully autonomous AI technology. For example, in cases where fault cannot be traced directly back to a human actor, the law must determine
  • Whether to consider the AI product itself to be the actor and, if so, the applicable standard of care governing the AI (for example, a reasonable human versus a new "reasonable machine" standard).
  • How to treat foreseeability when an AI product is intended to act autonomously. The use of AI raises questions not only about what is foreseeable for AI, but also whether humans might eventually be held to a different standard, especially in cases where AI was available to perform the task.
Creating and using AI and related technology, such as computer hardware, can present unique intellectual property (IP) issues regarding:
  • Protection of AI through IP
  • Ownership of AI IP
  • AI IP infringement 
About May, Oberfell, and Lorber
Based in Michiana since 1856, the full-service law firm of May Oberfell Lorber provides a broad range of legal experience. From individuals, to companies large and small, to firms outside Michiana needing an accessible local partner, we use a responsive team approach at competitive rates. Blending a passionate commitment to the local community with a full spectrum of legal services, we fulfill our promise of principled, professional service to our clients.
 
About our Speakers
Matt joined May Oberfell Lorber in 2020. For over fifteen years, he has handled all phases of litigation in large markets, including Chicago and Indianapolis, and has successfully argued for reversals in the appellate courts of Indiana, Michigan, and the Seventh Circuit. Matt has extensive experience in personal injury matters, appellate law, litigation, medical malpractice, and domestic and family law and continues to focus his practice in these areas: Personal Injury, Litigation, Appeals & Appellate, Medical Malpractice, Labor, Employment & Worker’s Compensation, Family & Domestic, and Professional Affiliations. He is a member of the Indiana State Bar Association, St. Joseph County Bar Association. Matt has a B.A. in French and Russian from the University of Notre Dame, cum laude 2000, a J.D. from Santa Clara University School of Law, 2003. He is a South Bend native, Adjunct Professor at IUSB, and has Studied abroad in France, Russia, and Singapore
 
Cory joined May Oberfell Lorber in 2021 as a summer associate. While attending Michigan State College of Law, Cory worked as an intern in the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office and took part in the Fresh Start Fridays expungement clinics. Prior to attending law school, Cory received a Bachelor of Science in Finance and worked professionally as a Relationship Manager for several years. In his free time, he enjoys exploring the world with his wife and their two kids. His practice areas include: Corporate and Business, Banking and Finance, Litigation, Labor, and Employment & Worker’s Compensation. Cory's Professional Affiliations: Indiana State Bar Association, St. Joseph County Bar Association. Cory has a B.S. in Finance, Indiana University Judd Leighton School of Business and Economics, 2016 and J.D. from Michigan State University College of Law, 2022. Cory is a South Bend native, a proud father of twins, and enjoys hiking, snowboarding, and grappling sports.
 
August 28, 2023 - Cory Hildebrandt and Matthew Anderson - AI/ChatGPT Eric Garton 2023-08-28 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club August 21 - Tami Hicks, Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County

 
Today we welcomed Tami Hicks, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County.
 
Hicks joined the Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County with more than 17 years’ experience in the field of public education. She was the principal at Model Elementary School in Goshen, where she led professional development, developed a social media presence for her school to increase community engagement and served on the district safety committee. During her tenure, she worked collaboratively with her team in the creation of the Kid Mayor program for all fourth-grade students in partnership with the City of Goshen. In 2021, Hicks was named Indiana Elementary School Principal of the Year for District 2. Prior to being principal at Model, she was assistant principal at Goshen Middle School and an instructional coach and teacher for Goshen Community Schools.
 
As CEO, Hicks replaced Kevin Deary, who retired after serving in his role for 28 years. Hicks’ responsibilities include leading the organization’s strategic direction, oversight of organizational operations, financials, programming, brand reputation, talent recruitment, resource development and stakeholder relationships. The CEO also serves as the organization’s primary ambassador and lead communicator.
 
About the Boys & Girls Clubs

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County began operations in 1956. The Clubs offer programming and service opportunities for children & teens to reach their full potential within the community. Each day, the Clubs provide powerful relationships with the youth they serve and open avenues of opportunity for young people across their community by offering safe places where young people can learn, grow and succeed.
 
Each day, they welcome more than 1,500 youth between the ages of six and 18 to their Clubhouses. As soon as our club members walk through our doors, they enter an environment of stability, consistency, and physical and emotional safety. Each day they build deeply powerful relationships with the youth they serve and open avenues of opportunity for young people across our community. B&GCs offer safe places where young people can learn, grow and succeed. They provide a quality Club Experience that assures success is within reach of every young person who enters their doors, with all members on track to graduate from high school with a plan for the future, equipped with the skills needed to have a successful life, and demonstrating good character and citizenship.
 
 
Rotary Foundation Chair and Club Secretary Howard Edwards presented Honorary Rotarians Mike and Jenny Nolan with Paul Harris Fellow awards. Mike and Jenny have been Interact Club liaisons for many years in service to the Elkhart Rotary Club and the many high school students who's participated for the past years, including chaperoning the club's annual trips to Costa Rica. 
 
 
 
Elkhart Rotary Club August 21 - Tami Hicks, Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County Eric Garton 2023-08-21 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club August 15: Holy Cross College President Marco Clark

 
Today we welcomed Holy Cross College President Marco Clark.
He talked about the tri-campus community and the role Holy Cross has in the tri-campus and Michiana communities and how the College prepares its students to be a force for good in this world. 
 
Marco Clark, Ed.D. has been the President of Holy Cross College at Notre Dame, Indiana since July 1, 2022. Dr. Clark is the first president of the College who is not a Holy Cross brother or priest. Dr. Clark comes to Holy Cross College from St. Edward’s University, sponsored by the Brothers of Holy Cross, Moreau Province, located in Austin, Texas and has worked for over thirty years as a Catholic educator and leader in higher education and secondary schools sponsored by the Congregation of Holy Cross. He succeeded Rev. David T. Tyson, C.S.C., who retired.
 
Dr. Clark holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the College of the Holy Cross, Massachusetts, a Master’s in Education in Guidance and Counseling from Bowie State University, Maryland, and a Doctorate in Education in Interdisciplinary Leadership from Creighton University, Nebraska. He has spent the entirety of his 33+-year career as a Catholic educator, 25 of those years serving alongside the Brothers of Holy Cross.
 
He and his wife Peggy, a Catholic school math teacher, have three grown children and five grandchildren. As a former Division I student-athlete (Football) and coach, Marco is also an avid sports fan. He loves to bike, kayak, hike, spend time with his family, travel, relax on the beach, and play golf.
 
 
Are you ready for the Cardboard Boat Races?
Join us Friday afternoon, August 18 at LaSalle Bristol Pond
 
This will be the largest fleet to date with 64 boats participating. Grab your crew and come cruising with our "CRUW" as we sail the seas to our favorite travel destinations.
11am-3pm: Food trucks, bountiful beverages, & adventurous activities
3pm - 5pm: The cardboard boats set sail
The Great Cardboard Boat Race is the official kickoff of CRUW's annual fundraising campaign that culminates with a must-see race of handmade cardboard boats. Will they sink? Will they float? Join us to find out on August 18.
This year's race features a Cruisin' with the CRUW theme! Represent your favorite travel destination as we sail the seas in 2023. Mediterranean Getaway... Australian Down Under... Caribbean Cruise... California Dreamin'... you get the idea! Show us your best dream vacation!
 
 
VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE BOAT - (ours) by making a donation at https://fundraise.givesmart.com/vf/VOTEBR23/team/Elkhartrotary
 
 
 2nd Annual Larry Roberts and Bob Lindahl Bike Ride
Sep 23, 2023 9:00 AM at Studebaker Park
1020 McDonald St
Elkhart, IN 46516

On Saturday September 23 at 9:00 a.m., the 2nd Annual Larry Roberts and Bob Lindahl bike ride to raise awareness and money for a cure for Multiple Myeloma begins at Studebaker Park. The ride goes along the new River Trail to the Maplehart into Goshen connecting with the Pumpkinvine to Mooys, an Amish Ice Cream shop located about 6 miles northeast of Goshen on the Pumpkinvine.  Those riders going that far can purchase ice cream, sandwiches etc.  We then turn around and repeat the ride back to Studebaker Park in Elkhart.  Total distance is about 36 miles but shorter rides are also an option.
 
Please email or text Don Stohler to register or with questions. donstohler@comcast.net / Cell 574-286-2386
Elkhart Rotary Club August 15: Holy Cross College President Marco Clark Eric Garton 2023-08-14 04:00:00Z 0
Elkahrt Rotary Club August 7 - Potawatomi Zoo Updates 2023-08-07 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting July 24, 2023

Lots of fun stuff today at the Elkhart Rotary Club! In case you missed it....
 
We inducted a NEW MEMBER—Dustin Miller—to the Club. Dustin is a lifetime Elkhart County community member and Manager of Project Development with DJ Construction in Goshen. President Julie Cotton conducted the induction and Membership Chair and former club president, Eric Garton, passed along the hardware. Dustin provided a brief intro of himself from podium - - Please make Dustin feel welcome in the club!
 
 
Today's Sergeant, Peter Norton, extracted fun fines from club members with the theme of 'The Open Champtionship' and trivia surrounding it. That's GOLF for those keeping score. Brian Harman stunned the golf world by capturing the 151st Open Championship at Royal Liverpool Golf Club on Sunday, finishing 13 under and won the Claret Jug by 6 strokes, which tied for the second-largest margin of victory by an American golfer in the storied tournament's history. Tiger Woods won by 8 at St. Andrews in Scotland in 2000.
Nice job, Peter! Remember, fines collected support our not for profit grants in the spring.
 
 
Julie Cotton reminded the club that NEXT MONDAY, July 31, we will be meeting for lunch and our regular noon Rotary Meeting OFFSITE at: 
The Historic Roosevelt Center, 215 E Indiana Ave in Elkhart.
After lunch and business we will tour Tolson at 1320 Denham. Rotarians can either walk over or we can shuttle those needing assistance in cars.
We had 47 people RSVP, there will be 50 lunches provided by the Matterhorn in case a couple folks forgot to let us know you are coming. Please let Julie know if you're coming, if you have not already. Thanks!
 
 
During lunch, we shared some photos of this past Saturday's Rotary Kayak Adventure down Christiana Creek, coordinated by member Jamison Czarnecki. Thanks for arranging, Jamison, looked fun! Here are the happy paddlers.
 
 
Eric Garton, Robert and Peggy Weed Executive Director, shared an update on the Events and Visitors Center Expansion Project. The Project realizes four key master plan features—a new 12,000 sq.ft. Visitors Center with event capacity, an Open Air Pavilion, relocation and repurposing of the existing Visitors Cottage, and increased parking capacity. As outlined, these features will provide not only a transformational guest experience with necessary infrastructure and amenities, financial sustainability for the future, and increased mission-effectiveness, but also deliver increased quality of place and promote economic development of our area.
Since its founding by the Elkhart Rotary Club in 2005, over 20 beautiful garden spaces and numerous special features have been installed at Wellfield. These major capital projects have been made possible by the vision and generosity of community leaders in the Elkhart, Indiana area. Wellfield is poised for its next transformational stage of development to meet an increasing need as we grow.
 
Eric shared that Elkhart Rotarian Marly Rydson (now living in Florida), inspired the project through a generous lead gift committment in April 2021 in honor of his wife of 59 years, Laura Rydson, one of the original Board of Directors of the Community Foundation (and first woman on the board), who passed away in August of 2021. Marly's gift to help build the Visitors Center also engaged support from the Community Foundation of Elkhart County. 
 
 
 
 
To learn more about the project visit: https://www.wellfieldproject.com/
 
Following his brief presentation about Wellfield's project, Eric also shared some funny Member Trivia in his role as Membership Chair.
DO YOU KNOW which Rotarian?....
  • ...was born in 1964, attended high school locally, is 1986 graduate of the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy, a 1991 graduate of IUSB, graduated 1995 from IUSB with two Masters degrees and in 1999 graduated with a third masters degree? OR
  • ...had Hall of Famer Bill Fitch as his college basketball coach? AND was the Student host to Louie Armstrong when he visited his college campus? AND spent 3 hours visiting Pete Rose shortly after his baseball career ended? OR
  • ...who once rode a motorcycle, solo, to Guatemala on a whim for charity without any spanish language aptitude? AND whose art was described by a newspaper review of his gallery's opening as "Ugly Bathroom Art"?
These are just a FEW of the tidbits that you learn at Elkhart Rotary Club meetings... we'll continue the Member Trivia - - keep sending your interesting member facts to Eric Garton for more fun later.
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting July 24, 2023 Eric Garton 2023-07-24 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting July 17, 2023

Today we welcome Jenny McGee, Founder and Executive Director of the Starfish Project. 
 
Their Purpose
At Starfish Project, we help exploited women and girls experience freedom, establish independence and develop careers.
The Story of the Starfish Project:
We began in 2006 as a small group of friends who could no longer simply walk by the women and girls we observed being exploited around our city in Asia. None of us had a business or jewelry design background. What we shared was a desire to restore hope and bring freedom. We never imaged that today our jewelry brand would be loved by women all around the world who share the same vision.
 
2006: Young girls sitting in windows under the red lights called us to action. We began by visiting brothels and building relationships with the women and girls we met. Little by little, we’d find a commonality, like our kids or our favorite food, and a conversation would begin. Week after week, we’d return to the same places. Our awkward chats slowly turned into coffee dates, throwing birthday parties for the women and even giving English lessons. As the women began to trust us, they shared their stories. Many were tricked by people they loved and even sold into brothels.

The following year, during an Easter party we held in the red light district, five women made the incredibly brave decision to escape their lives of exploitation. Knowing that leaving the brothel was only the first step in experiencing freedom, we launched full force into starting a business that would offer employment to our new friends — some of whom had never been to school a day in their life. Inspired by our vision to celebrate the value and beauty of each woman, our jewelry company was born. We rented a bright and cheery two-bedroom apartment with a hilarious orange sofa, and this space became our shelter and production area. The women made their first pairs of earrings around the dining room table.
 
By the end of our first year in business, we completed our first large wholesale order of 60,000 pairs of earrings! By June, we outgrew the orange sofa apartment and upgraded to a larger space as the women joining Starfish Project more than doubled! Equally as exciting were the birth of the first Starfish Project baby and the first Starfish Project wedding. It’s astounding how we, a group of women from vastly different backgrounds and stories, became a family.
 
2011: Five years later, we had established the only safe house and training facility for women escaping exploitation in our city in Asia of over 20 million. With more and more women wanting to join us, we poured ourselves into developing high quality, on-trend jewelry, ready for the international market. To employ more women and offer fair wages, we needed to sell a lot of jewelry because more sales equals more women hired. During this time, we were approached by another group of women seeking to replicate the project in a different part of Asia. We hopped on a train and met the women who shared our dream. After hearing their hearts and seeing their wonderful tenacity, we expanded Starfish Project, and the Riverside Branch was launched.

The women in our headquarters were so excited to go on their first business trip to the branch office that you’d have thought we were actually buying them a plane! It was a powerful moment seeing women that came to Starfish Project broken, with less than third grade education levels, going across the country to train up new staff at the Riverside Branch.
 
As we continued to grow, we saw the potential for women on our production line to develop careers in fields like photography and accounting. We had the incredible privilege to encourage and equip our friends with skills that could take them far beyond Starfish Project. The life transformations were, and still are, incredible! It’s a privilege to work alongside each woman, not only to make jewelry, but also to dream of a future for her and her family.
 
 
2022: Though we started as a small group of women hoping on behalf of others who had lost all hope, Starfish Project has grown into a highly successful jewelry brand. We are featured in household-name stores and fair-trade businesses all across America. We are proud that our jewelry business, now mostly run by women who have escaped human trafficking, is leading the way in on-trend designs and industry leading quality for ethical fashion.
Yet, there are still many women and girls in exploitation today. We desire to see each one experience freedom. With your help, we can!
Your purchases are an investment into this powerful mission to see women and girls experience freedom, establish independence and develop careers that will transform lives for generations.

For more information visit: https://starfishproject.com
 
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Congratulations and Thanks to Tom Pletcher, whose donations have earned a Paul Harris Fellow+7 Recognition at today's meeting, presented by immediate Past President, Todd Stone. To learn more about Paul Harris Fellow recognition by giving to the Rotary Foundation, click here.
 
 
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting July 17, 2023 Eric Garton 2023-07-17 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club July 10, 2023: It's a NEW ROTARY YEAR!

A terrific day to be an Elkhart Rotarian!
 
As our first meeting in July because of the July 4 holiday, this was the official 'passing of the gavel' meeting in which 2022-2023 President Todd Stone said his presidential farewell and handed the gavel to our NEW 2023-2024 club President, Julie Cotton! THANK YOU, Todd! THANK YOU, Julie!
 
 
Todd thanked the many members of the club who helped make our 2022-2023 a great year, including Board Members who'd just completed a three year term, including (L-R) Dawn Fisher, Paul Warning, Peter Norton, Andy McCaskey, Eric Garton, and Tom McArthur. Todd presented each with a token of his appreciation of his own creation. 
 
 
Julie shared her inspirations for the year upcoming, including the new Rotary Theme and Flag for 2023-2024:
 
We inducted a NEW MEMBER to the Club today! While she's been attending our Club as a 'visiting Rotarian' for several months, Mary Kaczka has now officially transferred her Membership from the Valparaiso Club to the Elkhart Rotary Club. Mary shared a few of her many experiences with Rotary, including several international conventions she's attended and her Rotary leadership experiences - - she's been a member of four Rotary Clubs, is a Past President, Assistant District Trainer, and was a Group Study Exchange Team leader on a trip to India!
 
 
 
Tony Warning introduced our guests, members of the Elkhart High School Interact Club, who made a now-annual spring service trip to Nosara, Costa Rica:
  • Nick Hardy (parents, Nicole and Nick Hardy)
  • Gianni Lucchese (mom, Heather Ek)
  • Kaden Kennedy (parents, Amanda and Pat)
  • Gavin Sommer (mom, Carrie)
  • Savannah Tully (mom, Mindy)
  • Emily Davis (parents, Tricia and Matt)
  • Chaperones: Jenny and Mike Nolan, Mary and Jason Kuehne)
  • Not in attendance: Addi Millslagle and Mom and chaperone, Brandi Millslagle 
Tony reminded and thanked the club for our placemat advertising campaign that helps pay for this trip each year, including a monetary donation to the David S. Kitson Library.
The Elkhart Rotary Club is a Partner of the David S. Kitson Library. Every summer vacation since 2005, students from the Elkhart, Indiana Youth Rotary Outreach Program have spent a week during their summer vacations visiting Nosara and working to maintain the Library building. Over 245 volunteers have served the Library through this partnership.
The Library's Mission: To promote reading, learning, and cross-cultural understanding.  And Vision: Fundación Biblioteca David Kitson enriches and empowers the people of our community by encouraging the lifelong habit and love of reading; providing welcoming spaces that offer collections and resources that inform, inspire, enrich, empower and entertain; promoting educational and training opportunities as an integral part of the community; creating a link between cultures that builds local and global awareness through cross-cultural understanding and friendship.
 
The students presented a short video compilation of their trip and shared stories about the experience.
 
 
 
Jenny and Mike Nolan has been working with the Interact Club for 7 years, since 2016! 
  • They've Chaperoned the Nasara, Costa Rica/David Kitson Library trip 5 times - missing 2 years due to covid.
  • For Interact, they typically have 10-12 kids per class so that's 40+ kids every year that they are keeping engaged. They meet every month at the Nolan's house.
  • Service projects include Taste of the Gardens, Salvation Army bell ringing, Habitat for Humanity, Dollars for Scholars, CR 6 cleanup, Aquatic Center, Church Community services & others.
Thanks to all who attended including our many guests. Thank you for helping to make our community a better place in which to live, work, and play!
Elkhart Rotary Club July 10, 2023: It's a NEW ROTARY YEAR! Eric Garton 2023-07-10 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club Meeting June 26, 2023

 
Thanks for all who joined us for our final meeting of the Rotary 2022-2023 fiscal year under Club President Todd Stone. Our next meeting will be Monday, July 10, we're off on July 3 in observance of Independence Day.
 
A busy agenda for today, beginning with the awarding of three Paul Harris Fellow awards for individuals' contributions to the Rotary Foundation. As pictured L-R:
  1. Dave Dygert, Paul Harris Fellow+2
  2. Sherm Hansen, Paul Harris Fellow+5
  3. Robert Peterson, who passed in May, posthumously awarded his Paul Harris Fellow pin, held by President Todd Stone, and
  4. Howard Edwards, our Club's Foundation Chair. 
 
Today, we also welcomed three not for profit representatives to receive their Spring 2023 Grant awards:
  • Whitney Miller, Area Director for the Boys and Girls Club of Elkhart County
  • Jamison Czarnecki, Elkhart Parks and Recreation Superintendent (and fellow Rotarian)
  • Peter Norton, Executive Director of Cancer Resources for Elkhart County.
Thanks to everyone who gives generously of their weekly fines, which support the Donation Committee's awarding of 14 local not for profits with nearly $13,000 in funding this year. And thanks to the weekly Sergeants and their Captain, Anthony Hunt, for coordinating the schedule. 
 
Our presenter today was Eric Garton, the Robert and Peggy Weed Executive Director at Wellfield Botanic Gardens who provided an update on the Events and Visitors Center Expansion Project. The Project realizes four key master plan features—a new 12,000 sq.ft. Visitors Center with event capacity, an Open Air Pavilion, relocation and repurposing of the existing Visitors Cottage, and increased parking capacity. As outlined, these features will provide not only a transformational guest experience with necessary infrastructure and amenities, financial sustainability for the future, and increased mission-effectiveness, but also deliver increased quality of place and promote economic development of our area. Since its founding by the Elkhart Rotary Club in 2005, over 20 beautiful garden spaces and numerous special features have been installed at Wellfield. These major capital projects have been made possible by the vision and generosity of community leaders in the Elkhart, Indiana area. Wellfield is poised for its next transformational stage of development to meet an increasing need as we grow. Here are some images from the presentation.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Rotary Club Meeting June 26, 2023 Eric Garton 2023-06-26 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Meeting June 12 Welcomes New Member Luke Lefever

Our Monday, June 12 meeting had a bit of change in the program with a canceled speaker. But it did not limit our ability to induct a new member. Welcome Luke Lefever to our membership! Sponsored by Rotarian Burne Miller, Luke Lefever was invited to join Rotary about ten years ago but at the time could not commit the time due to family obligations. As his schedule has allowed, Luke felt it was time to make the jump to Rotary, and we're thrilled he has. Luke has much community involvement, having been a past board member of several community organizations including of the Osolo Little League, Elkhart Education Foundation, Elkhart City Historic Review Board, and the Northern Indiana Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling Contractors Association. Currently, Luke is a board member of the Upper Room Recovery Community in South Bend. Luke is a financial advisor and Director of Client Experience for Pathway Asset and Tax Advisory. 
 
Members, please welcome Luke and help him get involved with our club. 
 
 
Rotary Meeting June 12 Welcomes New Member Luke Lefever Eric Garton 2023-06-16 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club June 5, 2023

Rod Roberson celebrates Elkhart's quality of place in 2023 State of the City address
WVPE 88.1 Elkhart/South Bend | By Marek Mazurek Published June 5, 2023 at 4:08 PM EDT

For Elkhart Mayor Rod Roberson, quality of place is the concept driving the city forward as it looks to build on the momentum of the past three years.
Speaking at a meeting of the Elkhart Rotary Club on Monday, Roberson delivered the annual State of the City address, touting the city’s strong housing market and focus on entertainment.
 
“The dynamics of quality of place simply overwhelm almost everything else local governments do,” Roberson said. “Young people are the future of growth and they’re mobile. What’s going to make them put down roots? Quality of place.”
 
Roberson said all aspects of city government play a role in quality of place, but he highlighted the completion of the River Greenway Trail and city’s recently announced plans to build an 8,000 seat amphitheater as recent successful initiatives.
 
“To make quality of place work, we must capitalize on the things that are uniquely Elkhart,” Roberson said.
 
The mayor, who’s ending his first term at the end of this year, also cited a report from the Wall Street Journal, which has named Elkhart one of the nation’s best emerging housing markets for the third time in two years. Since late 2021, the city has created more than 600 jobs and $85 million in investments through economic incentives for business, according to Roberson.
 
Roberson also credited the Elkhart Police Department, which reported an 11% decrease in violent crimes in 2022, as another component in creating a good quality of place. Use of force complaints are declining and staffing levels are rising, Roberson said, which are signs of the department’s shift away from the negative culture created under past administrations and police chiefs.
 
Monday’s State of the City marked Roberson’s fourth address and the mayor took a moment to celebrate what he sees as the city’s progress in those four years.
“If you remember [in 2019], Elkhart was coming off of a massive flood. The police department was being viewed as an embarrassment. Tolson Youth Center was being closed and the city’s administration and council were at war with each other. We’ve come a long way,” Roberson said.
 
Roberson is running for re-election and is so far not opposed by either party.
 
The mayor also touted the city’s 311 system as a successful way to engage neighborhoods in the city and emphasized the importance of of public-private partnerships in addressing housing and other issues.
 

 

Elkhart Rotary Club June 5, 2023 Eric Garton 2023-06-05 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club May 22, 2023 - The Matamba Project

On May 22 we welcomed visiting Rotarian from the Concord Rotary Club, Andrew Hicks. Andrew has been an attorney with Warrick & Boyn since 2007 and was inspired to help a remote hospital in Tanzania through mission work he'd done in the area over 20 years ago. Andrew shared how his personal life experiences inspired his support of the St. John's Hospital in Matamba,Tanzania. Matamba is in the region of Njombe in with a population of approximately 10,600 people and is one of the largest places in Tanzania. Andrew currently spearheads fundraising efforts for the project through St. Thomas Church here in Elkhart, which began in 2021 with a gift of $1700 to the hospital. Since that time, fundraising has increased and there is goal to raise $10,000 annually for support of the hospital, which makes a big difference to the lives of those in the area. Andrew's recent fundraiser, Bottlecaps & Corks, raised $5000 for the hospital. The Matamba Project is also proposed for a Rotary International Grant, supported by both Concord Rotary Club and Rotary International. Here are some highlights of slides from his presentation.
 
If you're interested in supporting the efforts, visit: https://www.osvhub.com/stthomaselkhart/giving/funds/the-matamba-project
 
To learn more about the project, contact Andrew - - catch him at an upcoming meeting of the Concord Rotary Club, Wednesdays at Noon at the Concord Martins' supermarket - - upstairs above the deli.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Elkhart Rotary Club May 22, 2023 - The Matamba Project Eric Garton 2023-05-22 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club - May 15, 2023

On Monday we welcomed fellow Elkhart Rotarian and Executive Director of Elkhart Education Foundation, Charmaine Torma!

Charmaine shared information about EEF, educational challenges faced by our community, and how EEF is addressing those challenges.

EEF, a 501(c)(3) organization, manages and expends funds received from donations that support the mission, vision and goals of the Elkhart Community Schools. EEF provides funds for innovative teaching practices, education programs and activities – Athletics, Arts, Academic Clubs/Service Organizations – that are outside of the parameters of the traditional operating budget for Elkhart Community Schools. The funds provided by EEF will be used to facilitate student achievement and skill development, to recognize and encourage staff excellence, and to cultivate community involvement from individuals, businesses and civic organizations.

For more about EEF visit: https://www.elkhartedfoundation.org/

Welcome back former member and longtime Rotarian Scott Franko! Scott and his wife are relocating back to the Elkhart area after several years away and are excited for the new adventures ahead. Scott was inducted back into our club membership on Monday.

Elkhart Rotary Club - May 15, 2023 Eric Garton 2023-05-15 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club May 8, 2023 - Lifeline Youth Ministries

 
On May 8 we welcomed fellow Elkhart Rotarian and Lifeline Youth Ministries executive director Darrell Peterson to share updates about lifeline, including their new expansion project, the Lifeline Hub, a place that provides a safe, family-like atmosphere for youth from 1st-12th grade. The Hub will comprise 36,000 square feet, is centrally located near Prairie and Hively, and will serve over 1,000 kids per year. 
 
 
Lifeline's mission is to share God’s love by providing inner city youth with caring role models, teaching basic life skills, developing student leaders and connecting students to their local schools and churches. Lifeline is a full-cycle of engagement ministry that provides a safe, family-like atmosphere for youth from 3rd-12th grade. While at club, youth can enjoy a variety of activities: gym time, games, tutoring and the friendship of others. They receive a Bible lesson and participate in a small group interaction as it relates to the lesson. Club members also get the opportunity to earn points redeemable for prizes. Prizes can be anything from a bag of Takis up to Bikes. It all depends on how motivated they are.
 
 
For more information visit: https://www.elkhartlifeline.com/ and for for more information about The Lifeline Hub, visit https://www.elkhartlifeline.com/the-hub
Elkhart Rotary Club May 8, 2023 - Lifeline Youth Ministries Eric Garton 2023-05-08 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club, May 1, 2023 — enFocus

Today we welcomed Andrew Wiand, Executive Director of enFocus. enFocus is a nonprofit with a novel approach to talent attraction and community development. They intentionally match graduates to high-impact projects with regional organizations to provide meaningful professional experiences. To date, they have employed over 1,000 Fellows and Interns on over 250 projects. These collaborations not only deliver innovative solutions for local organizations, they inspire young professionals to stay in our region.

Andrew provided an update on the organization's growth across sectors, projects, and retention of recent graduates in Elkhart County. 

For more information visit: https://en-focus.org/

For Andrew's bio visit: https://en-focus.org/team

Our club's Rotary Foundation Chair, Howard Edwards, presented FOUR Paul Harris Fellow recognitions to dedicated donor Tom Neat, who continues to give to the Foundation in the names of his family members. THANK YOU, Tom, for your continued support of the Rotary Foundation and all of the great work Rotary does around the world.

Sergeant's Chair Anthony Hunt gave a master class in enunciation and tongue-twisters from the podium for today's fun fines. A reminder, your fines support local not for profits through grants from the Donations Committee. Give early, give often, your support furthers the missions of local organizations who expand our ability to make our community a better place in which to live, work, and play.

Elkhart Rotary Club, May 1, 2023 — enFocus Eric Garton 2023-05-01 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting April 24, 2023

Indiana Youth Institute’s 2023 "State of the Child" Presentation

 
Today we welcomed representatives from the Indiana Youth Institute:
  • Tami Silverman, President & CEO 
  • Taylor Johnson, Policy & Data Advocacy Manager
  • Chelsea Naylor, Northwest Outreach Manager

Tami and Taylor presented the Indiana Youth Institute’s 2023 State of the Child. We learned about the key data on Hoosier youth well-being from the newly released Indiana Youth Institute 2023 Indiana KIDS COUNT® Data Book and County Dashboard. IYI's 2023 KIDS COUNT® Data Book examines the overall well-being of Indiana kids, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and continuation of racial and ethnic disparities in outcomes across four domains, Family & Community, Health, Economic Well-Being, and Education. 

IYI’s President & CEO, Dr. Tami Silverman and Taylor Johnson, Policy & Data Advocacy Manager, highlighted the most recent information and trends in the Elkhart area. Access to reliable, high-quality data and resources empowers and equips leaders, policymakers, youth workers, and advocates with a go-to, trusted source to create positive change for Indiana youth.

Dr. Tami Silverman, DPA
After being raised in Bloomington, Indiana by a family of educators and having 25 years of experience managing teams to create positive impact and lasting change, Tami Silverman leads the vision of the Indiana Youth Institute by constructing and implementing strategies to fulfill IYI’s mission of statewide child success. Tami serves as the organization’s primary spokesperson, advocating for programs, innovations, and policies that benefit children and youth. Tami brings to IYI a clear understanding of the challenges faced by many children and families through her experience in family violence prevention and youth leadership and service. It was while working with thousands of homeless, often traumatized children that she confronted first-hand how some children face seemingly insurmountable challenges while others are born with immense resources and support. This has sparked her passion for equity, ensuring that all children can reach their full potential. She currently serves on the Indiana Department of Workforce Development’s Cabinet Youth Committee, the Indiana Commission for Higher Education’s Partnership Pentagon, the Indiana Criminal Justice Authority’s Juvenile Justice State Advisory Group, the board of directors for the Center for Sports Transformation and Indiana University’s Society of Aeons.

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting April 24, 2023 Eric Garton 2023-04-24 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club at Five Star Life's Summit Campus in Union, MI

 
Today club members braved the spring(?!) weather [aka snowstorm] to venture north of the state line to Union, Michigan for a visit to Summit, Five Star Life's 350-acre leadership training center. We heard from Aubrey Danielson, Executive Director and several of the organization's staff who provided insight and information about their varied programming. At Summit, Five Star Life integrates the soft skills kids develop through character, mindset, and leadership curriculum with a variety of specific hard skills (equine, archery, nature education, adventure, art, etc.). Summit provides the perfect on-ramp for kids to pursue and develop these hard skills, an introduction to a new world of possibilities, while also focusing on mindset development. Programs offered include:
  • Equine Learning and Horsemanship
  • Adventure Learning (high ropes course, rock wall & team building )
  • Target Learning with Archery and Hatchet Throwing  (in partnership with USA Archery/US Junior Olympics)
  • Nature Education (fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, gardening, birds of prey, botany, & more)
In 2005, Five Star Life embarked on a journey to fight the silent epidemic: the student dropout rate. 7,000 kids were dropping out of school every school day based on the Department of Education’s figures. Condoleezza Rice said we were in the middle of creating a two-class society: the educated and uneducated. Five Star Life’s mission is to change the face of culture by changing the mindsets of kids. Research shows that at the core of each person’s success or failure is a mindset.  Research also shows that kids drop out because they do not value education and ultimately do not value themselves.  Five Star Life attacks this root issue by infusing our proprietary curriculum that teaches kids how to develop successful mindsets which is the beginning of their transformation!
 
Thank you, Aubrey and the Summit crew for hosting our club today!
 
On July 15, the Elkhart Rotary Club has scheduled a fun Leadership Day at Summit that will include options including: Equine, Hatchet Throwing, Boating, Archery, Fishing, Elk Experience and the HIGH ROPES Course. Look for more information coming soon or check with club President Elect, Julie Cotton. 
 
 
For more information about Five Star Life and Summit, visit: https://www.fivestarlife.org/
 
Elkhart Rotary Club at Five Star Life's Summit Campus in Union, MI Eric Garton 2023-04-17 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting April 10, 2023

 
Monday we welcomed author Tom Rose, who discussed his book, "Balloon In A Box—Coping with Grief". Grief over the death of a spouse, child or loved one leaves you broken and wounded. Your heart aches and you experience a wide variety of emotions. This book is about how to handle these emotions. Tom shared his journey of grief as well as memories, good and bad. Tom described how to control the “balloon in your box” and move forward in life with your loved one, not without them. Even if you are not grieving you will find this book to be a thought provoking read.
 
 
About Tom
Thomas L. Rose, was born in Peru Indiana, to Norman and Donna (Hipskind) Rose. He has two younger sisters Jacquelyn (Rose) Roberts (deceased) and Jill (Rose) England.
The family moved in 1953 from Peru to Goshen, Indiana where he still resides. He attended St. John's Parochial School and Goshen High School graduating in 1958. He attended St. Joseph, Ball State and Goshen College. He married Joyce Grissom in 1962. Their son, Brock, was born in 1964. Brock and his wife, Rose, have a daughter Amanda (Rose) McMahon who with her husband lives in the Goshen area. Tom worked in advertising and marketing most of his life and actually still does today with his son, at Rose and Rose Associates. Tom and wife Joyce coauthored two cookbooks, Cooking Together Chinese Style and Cooking Together Quick and Easy. They also hosted a cooking segment on the local Fox TV affiliate for 13 years. During that time they toured the Midwest teaching cooking classes. After his wife's death, Tom, with help of his son, authored a third cookbook, Cooking Together Revisited, which is dedicated to Joyce with the proceeds going to the families Breast Cancer Support Projects. Tom along with his family produce a YouTube cooking show, Cooking Together Generations, to help promote their Breast Cancer Support Projects. for more visit: www.cookingtogether.com.
 
Happy Birthday, David Damerow, who was nice enough to provide some thoughtful words along with leading the Pledge and Four Way Test after being showered with a group singing to celebrate his day.
 
 
REMINDERS
Monday, April 17 our regular noon meeting will be at Five Star Life's Summit Camp in Union, Michigan.
The address is 14260 US Highway 12, Union, MI 49130. When you pull into Summit, drive past the green lodge and red horse barn, up to the big yellow building on the right (Goodwin Hall). It will be best to park along the side where the race track is and then form a second line, if needed. 
Please sign up to make sure have enough boxed lunches for all attendees, if you have not done so. Please reach out to Eric Garton directly if you have not already, or signup online at https://elkhartrotary.org/event/five-star-life---lunch-field-trip/
Our shortened business meeting will begin at noon, but you're welcome to arrive as early as 11:30; lunches will be available at 11:45. After the shortened business meeting, we'll take a tour of Summit with our host, Aubrey Daniels, Five Star Life executive director. You can walk or ride on their people mover; we'll finish up by 1:15. 
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting April 10, 2023 Eric Garton 2023-04-10 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club April 3, 2023 with Julie Cotton

Today we welcomed fellow Elkhart Rotarian and President-Elect, Julie Cotton for some belated April Fool's Day fun, presenting "April Fool's Improv... No Foolin'".
Aside from being our club's current President Elect (among many roles in our club's leadership), Julie is the creator and founder of Next Level Improv. Today she shared her passion for engagement and boundless enthusiasm by getting our club members up and active! In the category of "a picture tells a thousand words", enjoy the fun photos of our club members from today...
 
 
 
About Next Level Improv:
IN Fall of 2016, Next Level Improv, LLC was born. In the midst of a 3-year project with a Recovery and Mental Health Center in South Florida. One of the Owners- a dear friend of mine, Phil Diaz, approached me about bringing Improv into one of his facilities as supplemental programming for clients undergoing in-patient treatment.
We started once a month while other modalities were also being sampled by the patient populations as to their efficacy, benefit to staff and clients as well as overall enjoyment. Of the other disciplines introduced, Improv was one of the favorites! We soon bumped up to once a week. Staff, Therapists, Students, Caseworkers all noticed improved communication and self expression both individually and peer to peer.
During this 3-year period, I also began training to be a Transformational Leadership Trainer and saw direct correlations between Accelerated Learning Techniques, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, Transformational & Personal Development Distinctions and the Technology of Improv. Next Level Improv was created out of this union. I saw clearly the synergy between disciplines and Founded a vehicle to carry the vision out to the world.
A statement from Julie: "When I was 9 years old, a troupe of touring Actors came into my middle school in Phoenix, AZ and transported me to a world of Make Believe- sets, costumes, music, characters and transformed my school gymnasium into a whole world of possibilities! That day I declared, “I wanna do THAT when I grow up!” Twelve years later, I worked for THAT company and toured with them for 5 seasons bringing theater arts into the lives and minds of youth all over the Southwest! I saw the tangible power that confidence, clear vision, creativity, and unlocking the imagination of my inner child could have in my life! When do we stop allowing that inner child to create worlds on our behalf? My vision is to inspire people to DREAM and PLAY again- specifically by putting practical tools into their hands, hearts and minds that connect them directly to their most creative inner Self. How I do that is through Improv Technology."
Elkhart Rotary Club April 3, 2023 with Julie Cotton Eric Garton 2023-04-03 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting March 27, 2023

Today we welcomed Brett Bauer, CFO of 1st Source Bank, discussing interest rates, inflation, the economy, and banking industry.
 
 
 
 
 
Brett Bauer initially joined 1st Source Bank as a Corporate Trainee in 1999 before becoming a Trust Investment Analyst in 2000. In 2006, he started managing the Bank’s fixed income portfolio until he was promoted in late 2012 to Chief Investment Officer. At this time, he also assumed the responsibilities for managing 1st Source’s funding and treasury functions, bank liquidity, municipal and large CD pricing and services, a $1 billion-plus investment portfolio, as well as setting and managing the Bank’s asset liability policy and approach. He has played a key role in vetting tax equity investments in 1st Source’s solar financing business. In 2020, he also took over responsibility for the company’s Financial Analysis unit and was promoted to Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer a year later. Prior to his tenures with 1st Source, Mr. Bauer worked for Bear Stearns Japan Ltd. in Foreign Securities Operations and later served as a Vice President in the Government Securities Portfolio Management area for Bear Stearns. Mr. Bauer graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a BS in Business Administration in 1994 and obtained an MBA from the University in 2013.
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting March 27, 2023 Eric Garton 2023-03-27 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Meeting March 20, 2023 - The Elkhart Area Career Center

Spring has sprung as we welcomed Brandon Eakins, Director of the Elkhart Area Career Center. 
 
The Elkhart Area Career Center (EACC) was started in 1972 and serves juniors and seniors from twelve Indiana school districts and one Michigan school district, totaling sixteen public and private high schools. Traditionally, over 1000 high school students enroll in half-day programs at EACC. Students are able to gain real experience and earn college credits through Ivy Tech Community College and Vincennes University that can be transferred to other colleges and universities. Opportunities for juniors and seniors at EACC are unmatched anywhere else in the area!
 
 
In addition, EACC students have the opportunity to earn industry recognized certifications to give themselves a better opportunity for their futures in their chosen career fields.  Students set themselves up to earn more income and start at higher levels upon graduation. All programs also offer work based learning opportunities such as job shadowing, clinicals, and internships.  Students can transfer their experiences into long-term careers or continue on in the summer.
 
EACC hosts an employability panel within the career clusters hosted by panels of industry leaders, a job fair where students actually apply for available positions, and open mock interviews that are often real interviews.  The opportunities for the juniors and seniors at EACC are unmatched elsewhere. All students can accomplish much more than a high school diploma, and that is exciting!
 
Students who choose EACC become motivated, focused, career and postsecondary oriented, and end up becoming valuable and productive young citizens who craft their futures.
For more information visit: For more visit: https://myeacc.org/
 
CLUB REMINDERS
  • Deadline for Submission for the J & K Kissinger Award is March 28, 2023. The J & K Kissinger Award was created in 1989 by District 6540's then-Governor William H. Heinhuis to commemorate the Rotary life and service of John M. (Jack) Kissinger, a member of the Elkhart Rotary Club who served as District Governor during the 1963-1964 Rotary year. Find the application and information HERE.
  • Deadline for this year's Rotary Grants is April 1. As part of its mission of “Service above Self”, the Elkhart Rotary Club provides an opportunity for financial support for programs benefiting the Elkhart County community. Requests for donations/grants will be accepted by email until April 1, 2023, and normally range from $500-$1000. Funding of approved grants will occur June 19, 2023.  Find the application and information HERE.
 
Elkhart Rotary Meeting March 20, 2023 - The Elkhart Area Career Center Eric Garton 2023-03-20 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting March 13, 2023

Today we welcomed David Parkinson, volunteer and coordinator with the Electrifying Engineers robotics team and members of the team. The Electrifying Engineers are a part of FIRST®, a robotics community that prepares young people for the future through a suite of inclusive, team-based robotics programs for ages 4-18 (PreK-12) that can be facilitated in school or in structured afterschool programs. For 30 years, FIRST has combined the rigor of STEM learning with the fun and excitement of traditional sports and the inspiration that comes from community through programs that have a proven impact on learning, interest, and skill-building inside and outside of the classroom.  FIRST engages PreK-12 students in exciting, mentor-based, research and robotics programs that help them become science and technology leaders, as well as well- rounded contributors to society.

 

 
 
 
 
 
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting March 13, 2023 Eric Garton 2023-03-13 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting March 6, 2023 Juve­nile Deten­tion Alter­na­tives Ini­tia­tive (JDAI)

Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Noon Division meeting for March 6, 2023 as we welcome Juve­nile Deten­tion Alter­na­tives Ini­tia­tive (JDAI) new program coordinator Brad Miller & former program coordinator Ray Caples 
 

 
Indiana joined the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative (JDAI) in 2006 and JDAI was added to Elkhart County in 2011.
JDAI is a bipartisan effort with public, private and community partnership for juvenile justice system improvement. The initiative focuses on the reallocation of public resources from mass incarceration toward investment in youth, families, and communities. This reinvestment provides an opportunity for lasting improvement to public safety.
JDAI is the most replicated juvenile justice system reform effort implemented nationwide.  For over 25 years, JDAI has proven that the juvenile justice system’s dual goals of promoting positive youth development and enhancing public safety are not in conflict and can be greatly strengthened by eliminating the unnecessary or inappropriate use of secure detention. Indiana is one of approximately 300 JDAI sites in 40 states and the District of Columbia to implement the Eight Core Strategies to enhance and improve their juvenile justice systems. These sites are home to approximately 30% of the nation’s youth ages 10 – 17.
 
By the numbers: 
Marion County joined the JDAI in 2006, becoming the first JDAI site in Indiana. By the end of 2016, the County had reduced admissions to detention by 66.4% and the average daily population in detention had fallen by 40.8%. During this same period of time, IDOC commitments were decreased by 52.5% and the number of felony petitions filed has also been reduced by 59.6%. The County has saved millions of taxpayer dollars previously used for incarceration, through the use of less expensive and more effective community-based alternative supervision programs for youth. In 2009 and 2010, four (4) additional Indiana counties became JDAI sites—Johnson, Lake, Porter, and Tippecanoe. Three (3) more sites were welcomed into Indiana’s JDAI expansion in 2011 and 2012—Clark, Elkhart, and Howard counties. In 2014, the Indiana JDAI expanded to include an additional 11 counties.  These counties include:  Allen, Bartholomew, Boone, Delaware, Henry, LaGrange, LaPorte, Madison, Monroe, St. Joseph, and Wayne.
 
Ray and Brad shared Elkhart County's numbers from 2011 (when JDAI began in Elkhart County) through 2022:
 
ADP = Average Daily Population; ALOS = average length of stay; IDOC = Indiana's Department of Corrections numbers of juveniles incarcerated; and F-Petitions = Felony Petitions
 
 
Congratulations and THANKS to President-Elect Julie Cotton for receiving her Paul Harris Fellowship award at our meeting today, presented by President Todd Stone.
 
 
And thanks to Tom McArthur for returning a club flag to our meeting from his travels in Florida, where he visited the LaBelle Rotary Club. LaBelle is located along the Caloosahatchee River and not far from Lake Okeechobee. LaBelle is known for its Curtis Honey House, country architecture, citrus farms, and Swamp Cabbage Festival.
 
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting March 6, 2023 Juve­nile Deten­tion Alter­na­tives Ini­tia­tive (JDAI) Eric Garton 2023-03-06 05:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting February 27, 2023 - Breanna Allen, Executive Director, Tolson Center for Community Excellence

Today we welcomed fellow Elkhart Rotarian and Executive Director of Tolson Center for Community Excellence, Breanna Allen as she shared both the history and future of Tolson as an exciting new project for our community. The Tolson Center for Community Excellence builds off the foundation established by Herbert and Ruth Tolson and carried forward by the City of Elkhart for decades. A true community partnership—built on the feedback from residents—is creating a revitalized Tolson Center rooted in South Central Elkhart, reaching across generations and cultures to serve all of the Elkhart community and beyond.
 
Breanna shared the history of the community center.
 
Then Breanna shared what's coming! The NEW Tolson Facility will include:
  • 30,000 sq. ft
  • 2 Indoor Gymnasiums
  • Dance and Art Room
  • Computer Room
  • Childcare Room
  • Community Care Room
  • Commercial Kitchen
  • Outdoor Basketball Courts
  • Soccer Field
  • Park 
  • Beautiful Landscaping
  • Indigenous Plants
 
 
For more about the Tolson Center for Community Excellent, including how you can become involved or support the project, visit: https://www.tolson.org/
 
More about Breanna: 
Born and raised in Terre Haute, Breanna earned two Bachelor of Science degrees in Criminology & Criminal Justice and African & African American studies from Indiana State University. Allen continued on to earn a Master of Science degree in Student Affairs and Higher Education from Indiana State University. Allen recently earned an Education Doctorate in Educational Leadership with a concentration in Higher Education from Northcentral University.  Allen is a mother of four and resides in South Bend with her husband and family. Breanna’s professional career brought her up to Michiana to work as a Student Affairs Specialist at Harrison College. Gaining experience supporting at-risk college students, fostering an environment to increase student engagement, and assisting with Career Development prepared Allen to transition to Ivy Tech Community College Elkhart County Campus, as the Director of Career Development for three years. While working in higher education, particularly with adult learners, Allen recognized gaps in the alignment of the workforce and education. Furthermore, there was a significant disconnect amongst minorities with college graduation rates low and the struggle of securing a high wage high demand job. This realization empowered Allen to begin pursuing her Doctorate of Education Degree in Higher Education Leadership, from Northcentral University, in San Diego, California. Allen’s dissertation focus is “The effect mentoring programs at Community Colleges have on Minority Males Success”. Prior to entering her new role at Tolson Center for Community Excellence, Allen worked for a non-profit organization, Horizon Education Alliance. While not working, she is serving her community in a variety of capacities, including as a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Eta Mu Omega Chapter in South Bend and serves as the President of the chapter. Breanna is also the secretary of the Inclusive Procurement Board with the City of South Bend and is a '40 under 40' recipient. Servant leadership drives every move Allen makes, knowing that giving to the community only makes it stronger. She has a personal investment in serving minority and women entrepreneurs and the youth, as they are our future. 
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting February 27, 2023 - Breanna Allen, Executive Director, Tolson Center for Community Excellence Eric Garton 2023-02-27 05:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting February 20, 2023 - Jennifer Sager, Sleep in Heavenly Peace

What a great day to be an Elkhart Rotarian! Thanks to those who joined us in person for the President's Day edition of our Club Meeting at Matterhorn Conference Center. 
 
Today we welcomed Jennifer Sager, Chapter Co-President of the Elkhart Chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace, a private, not-for-profit dedicated to providing beds for children. Sleep in Heavenly Peace believes that all children deserve a safe, comfortable place to lay their heads. Across the US, too many boys and girls go without a bed—or even a pillow—to sleep on. These children end up sleeping on couches, blankets, and even floors. This can affect their happiness and health. That’s where Sleep in Heavenly Peace comes in. They're a group of volunteers dedicated to building, assembling and delivering top-notch bunk beds to children and families in need. Our organization has grown steadily over time, and we’re working on opening more chapters in different states to serve more people.
 
Jennifer shared that the Elkhart Chapter began in 2018 and since that time has delivered over 550 to the local community. Their chapter is entirely made up of volunteers (currently 8) and they receive support and operating funds from the community as donations of funds as well as in-kind donations - - like bedding and other supplies. On average, one single bed + mattress + bedding = $300 to construct using volunteer labor. Volunteer days might make 10-20 beds (10 bunkbed sets) by 30-40 volunteers, maybe 3-4 hours to complete. To learn more about the Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Elkhart Chapter, or to find out how you can help visit: https://shpbeds.org/chapter/in-elkhart-co/
 
Announcements Today:
  • Keith Sarber put in a plug for community theater! Murder is coming down the tracks to the Bristol Opera House... February 24 – March 5. Elkhart Civic Theatre will present Ken Ludwig’s adaptation of Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express starting February 24 for a two weekend run at the Bristol Opera House.  The play is based on Agatha Christie’s novel of the same name. About the play: Just after midnight, a snowdrift stops the Orient Express in its tracks. The luxurious train is surprisingly full for the time of the year, but by the morning it is one passenger fewer. An American tycoon lies dead in his compartment, stabbed multiple times, his door locked from the inside. Isolated and with a killer in their midst, the passengers rely on detective Hercule Poirot to identify the murderer – in case he or she decides to strike again. Keith Sarber stars as Monsieur Bouc! For more info and tickets visit: https://elkhartcivictheatre.org/murder-on-the-orient-express-opens-february/
  • Jim Snodgrass, on behalf of the Red Ribbon Rookies, thanked those who contributed ideas for the committee's inaugural 2023 project. The committee has chosen to partner with Tolson Center for Excellence and their literacy initiative AND Council on Aging, who will help supply volunteers for that initiative. We look forward to hearing more about this project - -great job, Red Ribbon Rookies!
  • Julie Cotton announced:
    • Junior achievement volunteer training is upcoming - New Volunteer Training and Kit Pick ups are Tuesday 2/21 11:00-12:30. These  will take place at JA BizTown 1025 N Michigan St, Elkhart. Please note you only need to come to training if you are a completely new volunteer.  There will also be a virtual training on Thursday March 2 at 10am  you will need to arrange kit pick up prior to the training. Get inspired with a quick video about JA volunteer opportunities: https://youtu.be/qrj5Hu9qmpM
    • Join our upcoming wellness challenge, or "couch to 5k" as we prepare to help out as 'Sparkle Runners' in support of the Girls on the Run Michiana Elkhart 5k run scheduled for Saturday, May 13. You can walk or run to support the participants. More info to follow...
    • May 29 we'll have a fifth Monday social - no regular meeting; We'll also coordinate participation in Elkhart's Memorial Day Parade - -more info coming soon!
    • Sunday, June 11: South Bend Cubs game! Signup at https://elkhartrotary.org/event/southbend-cubs-game-1/
 
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting February 20, 2023 - Jennifer Sager, Sleep in Heavenly Peace Eric Garton 2023-02-20 05:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club—February 13, 2023: Sean Lanier, Resolve Solutions

Today we welcomed Sean Lanier, Founder and Executive Director of Resolve Solutions, a nonprofit in Virginia that works to provide a local solution of identifying undiscovered talent of future global leaders to address the manpower shortage critical to the National Security of the United States of America. Resolve Solutions' Mission is: Providing educational and financial support along with early college preparation. For more about Resolve Solutions and how you can support their efforts, visit https://resolvesolutions.org/
 
 
Today's meeting began as President Todd Stone introduced Candy Yoder to give some thoughtful words. Along with leading the Pledge and Four Way Test, Candy shared a timely, brief history of Black History Month for February: President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month in 1976, calling upon the public to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” Today, Black History Month is a time to honor the contributions and legacy of African Americans across U.S. history and society—from activists and civil rights pioneers such as Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth, Marcus Garvey, Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X and Rosa Parks to leaders in industry, politics, science, culture and more. 
 
Important Announcements, Dates, and Deadlines:
  • Peter Norton reminded club members that this Thursday, February 16 at 5 p.m. is Thirsty Thursday at Artisan. Come as you are, enjoy a drink and fellowship with fellow Rotarians. 
  • March 28 is the deadline for nominations for the J & K Kissinger Award, to be presented to District 6540's 'Rotarian of the Year' by President Todd Stone at our district event in April. For more about the award and to find the nomination form, CLICK HERE
  • April 1 is the deadline for grant applications for not-for-profit organizations in our area. Download the application here.
  • June 11: Join us for Sunday Funday with the South Bend Cubs vs. the Lansing Lugnuts! Where: Four Winds Field in the Owner's Suite
    When: Sunday June 11th, Game time is 2:05PM, (the Ballpark is open prior to the game if you and your family would like to take advantage of their many Game Day experiences.) Who: All Elkhart Rotarians, families and friends welcome! Cost: $40/person includes ticket for admission, rental of the owner's suite, hat, T-shirt, and lunch! Register online here - - don't miss your chance, this event will sell out! 
  • Today, we welcome Elkhart High School senior Shea Hull, who'll be joining us weekly in February. Today, Shea introduced herself from the podium said she looks forward to returning next week to learn more about what Rotary has to offer in the community.
 
Elkhart Rotary Club—February 13, 2023: Sean Lanier, Resolve Solutions Eric Garton 2023-02-13 05:00:00Z 0

February 6 - Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting

Another great meeting of the Elkhart Rotary Club, welcoming Chaunte Calbert, Administrative Manager, Youth Advocate Program of Elkhart County as our speaker.

Chaunte discussed the overall purpose of Youth Advocate Programs. Youth Advocate Programs— YAP for short— is a national nonprofit advocating for and delivering evidence-based services in homes and communities as a more effective and racially equitable alternative to youth incarceration, congregate child welfare, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities placements, and neighborhood violence.

YAP recognizes that generational poverty and structural racism and bias have contributed to educational, employment, health, and other disparities in communities across the U.S. and globally. Among these disparities are the disproportionate numbers of youth and adults of color who are incarcerated or living in other out-of-home facilities, such as group homes, residential treatment centers and others.

By redirecting justice, child welfare, behavioral health, and other social services dollars from youth prisons and other residential facilities to communities where our program participants live, we are helping our systems partners achieve racial equity in their service delivery and outcomes, which are strengthened with our evidence-based model.

For more visit: https://www.yapinc.org/

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Today, we also elected new board members!

Congratulations to Rotarians elected to a 2-year term: Andy McCaskey, Tom Neat, and Monica Abair. 
Congratulations to Rotarians elected to a 3-year term: Rob Hartzler, Paul Warning, and Irwin Larrier

Thanks to all who are volunteering to serve in the club's leadership!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Next week's meeting: February 13, 2023

Feb 13, 2023 12:00 PM
Sean Lanier - Founder and Executive Director of Resolve Solutions

Please welcome Sean Lanier, Resolve Solutions, a nonprofit in Virginia that works to provide a local solution of identifying undiscovered talent of future global leaders to address the manpower shortage critical to the National Security of the United States of America.

Their mission: Providing educational and financial support along with early college preparation.

For more visit https://resolvesolutions.org/

February 6 - Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting Eric Garton 2023-02-06 05:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Grant Requests are being accepted through April 1, 2023

 
The Elkhart Rotary Club is now accepting grant applications through April 1, 2023
 
As part of its mission of “Service above Self”, the Elkhart Rotary Club provides an opportunity for financial support for program and services benefiting the Elkhart County community. Requests for grants will be accepted by email until April 1, 2023, and normally range from $500-$1000. However, applications of exceptional merit requesting larger amounts may be considered. Grant requests will be evaluated by the Club's Donations Committee volunteers in the weeks following the deadline and awardees will be notified. Grants will be awarded in person on June 19 at the Club's Monday Meeting.
 
The funds distributed on an annual basis are raised directly through donations from Elkhart Rotary Club members at weekly meetings. A rotating roster of 'Sergeants' extract fun 'fines' from club members. The process takes about 5 minutes each meeting and is a fun way to learn about fellow club members and their activities in the community, as well as through trivia or celebrating memorable member milestones. The 'fines' are collected each week and comprise the total available funds that Donations Committee volunteers award to requesting organizations. 
 
Criteria the Donations Committee will consider for measuring proposed projects include: 
  • Does the project address the greatest needs in Elkhart County? 
  • Does the project address youth or youth-oriented needs? 
  • Does the project or the proposing organization have a broad community impact? 
  • Does the project empower girls and women? 
Applicants will be contacted within six weeks of the deadline with a decision. Grant recipients must be in attendance on Monday, June 19 at 12 p.m. to receive a check and provide a brief, 3-minute overview on the project being funded to our club at Matterhorn Conference Center in Elkhart. 
 
The grant guidelines and application can be found on the Elkhart Rotary Club's homepage (look for "Downloads" section) or CLICK HERE for the application.
Download the application and return by April 1 for consideration by the committee. The Elkhart Rotary Club is proud to support the wonderful missions and efforts of local not-for-profit organizations and their dedicated staff and volunteers who serve our community and make Elkhart County a better place to live, work, and play.
 
 
Elkhart Rotary Club Grant Requests are being accepted through April 1, 2023 Eric Garton 2023-02-03 05:00:00Z 0

January 30 - Trina Harris, City of Elkhart Development Services

Today we welcomed Trina Harris, Economic Development Specialist for the City of Elkhart's Development Services, introduced by Irwin Larrier.
Trina described the three areas of focus:
  1. Economic Development
  2. Community Development, and
  3. Redevelopment
 
Trina shared a great video showing some results of the City's Small Business Continuity Program grants.
Clink this link to view the video. https://youtu.be/kmBHZQ-2Kzg
 
Thank you, Trina, for visiting and sharing more about the City's Development Department.
January 30 - Trina Harris, City of Elkhart Development Services Eric Garton 2023-01-30 05:00:00Z 0

January 23, 2023, Noon Division Meeting of the Elkhart Rotary Club

Today we welcomed Dan Funston, Superintendent of Concord Community Schools. 
Dan shared updates about the growth of the district as well their strategic planning for the period 2023-2027. 
He shared their 'Portrait of a Graduate' and the details of their Strategic Plan Pillars:
  1. Student Engagement and Academic Success
  2. Student Wellbeing,
  3. Thriving Staff, and
  4. Community Building

For a video introduction, view this video: https://youtu.be/_cq7MF13gbY

 
Todd Stone presents Tom Neat the Rotary Foundation's Major Donor award for Tom's generous donations over the years.
January 23, 2023, Noon Division Meeting of the Elkhart Rotary Club Eric Garton 2023-01-23 05:00:00Z 0

January 16, 2023, Noon Division Meeting of the Elkhart Rotary Club

Jan 16, 2023: A full meeting today!
 
“If I lived in China or even Russia, or any totalitarian country, maybe I could understand some of these illegal injunctions. Maybe I could understand the denial of certain basic First Amendment privileges, because they hadn’t committed themselves to that over there. But somewhere I read of the freedom of assembly. Somewhere I read of the freedom of speech. Somewhere I read of the freedom of press. Somewhere I read that the greatness of America is the right to protest for right.
--Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 1968
(excerpts from his final speech before his assassination in April 1968, nearly 55 years ago)
 
Brad Rogers, Elkhart County Commissioner and the Hon. David C. Bonfiglio, Judge. Commissioner Rogers and Judge Bonfiglio presented an update on the Elkhart County Consolidated Courts project. For full details visit: https://elkhartcounty.com/en/news/county-courts-groundbreaking/
 
Charmaine Torma introduced our January Elkhart High School Students, who will be attending the remaining meetings in January. Students are (picture L-R) Maurice 'Mo' Harris, Diya Patel, and Emily Holtz. Please make them feel welcomed and get to know them!
 
Our club's heartfelt condolences to longtime Elkhart Rotarian Linda Rupnow and her family, who's husband (and longtime Lion's Club Member), Stan Rupnow passed away on Friday, January 13. Here is a link to Stan's obituary and arrangements at Billings Funeral Home:
 
 
January 16, 2023, Noon Division Meeting of the Elkhart Rotary Club Eric Garton 2023-01-16 05:00:00Z 0
Irwin Larrier - Center for Community Justice Eric Garton 2023-01-13 05:00:00Z 0
Get to Know Fellow Rotarians Andy McCaskey 2021-09-07 04:00:00Z 0
Economic Development Corp Projects Andy McCaskey 2020-12-09 05:00:00Z 0
LaCasa 2021 Outlook Andy McCaskey 2020-11-26 05:00:00Z 0
RV Industry Update Andy McCaskey 2020-11-18 05:00:00Z 0
Three Kinds of Journalism Andy McCaskey 2020-11-09 05:00:00Z 0
Diversity in Rotary Andy McCaskey 2020-11-02 05:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Industry Perspective Andy McCaskey 2020-10-19 04:00:00Z 0
Potawatomi Zoo Revitalization Andy McCaskey 2020-10-12 04:00:00Z 0
Ribbon of Hope Andy McCaskey 2020-10-05 04:00:00Z 0
Hotel Elkhart Project Andy McCaskey 2020-09-29 04:00:00Z 0
Kem Shield: a Covid 19 Story Andy McCaskey 2020-08-31 04:00:00Z 0
Wellfield Gardens Event Plans Andy McCaskey 2020-08-18 04:00:00Z 0
Welcome to Morning Division Andy McCaskey 2020-06-25 04:00:00Z 0
District Grant-Community Foundation-Return to Matterhorn Andy McCaskey 2020-06-16 04:00:00Z 0
The Crossing Andy McCaskey 2020-06-10 04:00:00Z 0
Wellfield Japanese Garden Project Andy McCaskey 2020-06-03 04:00:00Z 0
Inovateus Solar - Commercial Solar Projects Andy McCaskey 2020-05-18 04:00:00Z 0
ShelterBox and Guatemala Dress Project Update 2020-05-11 04:00:00Z 0
Elkhart General Hospital COVID-19 Response Andy McCaskey 2020-05-06 04:00:00Z 0
Bank and Accountant View of PPP Andy McCaskey 2020-04-27 04:00:00Z 0
Indiana Youth Institute Andy McCaskey 2020-03-24 04:00:00Z 0
Sustainable Elkhart - March 16, 2020 2020-03-22 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting March 9, 2020

Posted by Eric Garton on Mar 09, 2020
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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on March 9, 2020; We welcome Terry Mark, Director of Communications and Public Relations for the Elkhart County Convention and Visitors Bureau, who discussed the CVB's work over the past several years leading to Elkhart County's new 'destination brand', "Well Crafted", launched in January.
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting March 9, 2020 Eric Garton 2020-03-09 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting March 2, 2020

Posted by Eric Garton on Mar 02, 2020
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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on March 2, 2020; Today we welcomed Krista Bailey, Director, IUSB Center for a Sustainable Future, presenting: Sustainability: What, Why, How
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting March 2, 2020 Eric Garton 2020-03-02 05:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting February 24, 2020 Eric Garton 2020-02-24 05:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting February 17, 2020 Eric Garton 2020-02-17 05:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting February 10, 2020

Posted by Eric Garton on Feb 10, 2020
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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on February 10, 2020; Today we welcomed John McSorley - Managing Partner, Qualified Plan Development, and ​Financial Advisor from Guidance Wealth, LLC.
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting February 10, 2020 Eric Garton 2020-02-10 05:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting February 3, 2020 Eric Garton 2020-02-03 05:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting January 27, 2020 Eric Garton 2020-01-27 05:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting January 20, 2020

Posted by Eric Garton on Jan 20, 2020
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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on January 20, 2020; Today we welcomed Community Foundation of Elkhart County President (and fellow Elkhart Rotarian!) Dr. Pete McCown and Elkhart Greater Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Levon Johnson as they presented the planning work they have been co-leading related to the future of the Tolson Center and Park.
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting January 20, 2020 Eric Garton 2020-01-20 05:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting January 13, 2020 Eric Garton 2020-01-13 05:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting January 6, 2020 Eric Garton 2020-01-06 05:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting December 16, 2019

Posted by Eric Garton on Dec 16, 2019
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Welcome to a special meeting of the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on December 16, 2019; Today we welcomed our friends from Tuesday, the Elkhart Kiwanis Club to join us in a meeting of holiday friendship, live music, and fellowship.
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting December 16, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-12-16 05:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting December 9, 2019

Posted by Eric Garton on Dec 09, 2019
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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on December 2, 2019; Today we welcomed Carl Bossung, Co-Founder of Senior1Care, who addressed the growing needs and increasing challenges facing families caring for seniors
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting December 9, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-12-09 05:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting December 2, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-12-02 05:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting November 25, 2019

Posted by Eric Garton on Nov 25, 2019
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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on November 25, 2019; Today we welcomed Shabbir Qutbuddin, Director of IT Sector Partnership at Ivy Tech Community College for the South Bend - Elkhart Region.
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting November 25, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-11-25 05:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting November 18, 2019

Posted by Eric Garton on Nov 18, 2019
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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on November 18, 2019; Today we welcomed Elizabeth Keiling who shared about her upcoming experience with TeachBeyond. Soon, Liz will be embarking on an adventure to Chiang Mai, Thailand, serving students as a science teacher.
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting November 18, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-11-18 05:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting November 11, 2019

Posted by Eric Garton on Nov 11, 2019
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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on November 11, 2019; Today we welcomed Angela Logan, PhD., associate teaching professor of Management & Organization and the St. Andre Bessette Director of Nonprofit Professional Development (NPD) at Notre Dame.
 
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting November 11, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-11-11 05:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting November 4, 2019

Posted by Eric Garton on Nov 04, 2019
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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on November 4, 2019; Today we welcomed new Ivy Tech Chancellor Dr. David Balkin as he presented Ivy Tech updates from the campus to the community.
 
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting November 4, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-11-04 05:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting October 28, 2019

Posted by Eric Garton on Oct 28, 2019
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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on October 28, 2019; Today we welcomed Michael Patton, Co-Founder and Senior Pastor of Kingdom Life Christian Cathedral located in South Bend. Michael presented information about Cross Community, Inc. - - South Bend Northwest Affordable Housing Project.
 
 
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting October 28, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-10-28 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting October 21, 2019

Posted by Eric Garton on Oct 21, 2019
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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on October 21, 2019; Today we welcomed Susan Tybon, President and CEO and Aaron Bradford, Director of Development for the of YWCA North Central Indiana.
 
 
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting October 21, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-10-21 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting October 14, 2019

Posted by Eric Garton on Oct 14, 2019
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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on October 14, 2019; Today was a very special day at Rotary that included the presentation of an award to a local hero as well as a forum to learn more about our Elkhart Mayoral Candidates Dave Miller and Rod Roberson.
 
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting October 14, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-10-14 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting October 7, 2019

Posted by Eric Garton on Oct 07, 2019
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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on October 7, 2019; Today we inducted two new Rotarians into our Club; Jessica Benko and Dean Leazenby, and welcomed fellow Elkhart Rotarian and President and CEO of ADEC, Donna Belusar, PH.D., for a presentation of udpates and news from ADEC!
 
 
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting October 7, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-10-07 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Gathering September 30, 2019

Posted by Eric Garton on Sep 30, 2019
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Welcome to a special 'News and Notes' edition of our weekly E-Bulletin. In the absence of a regular Monday lunchtime meeting, we'll take the opportunity to review our special, Fifth Monday dinner meeting on Monday, September 30 as well as things to remember and upcoming events.
 
Elkhart Rotary Club Gathering September 30, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-09-30 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting September 23, 2019

Posted by Eric Garton on Sep 23, 2019
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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on September 23, 2019; Today we welcomed Gregg Fore, Partner and Chief Revenue Officer for G & G Media Group and RV Business Magazine as he presents: "The State of the RV Industry"
 
 
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting September 23, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-09-23 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting September 16, 2019

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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on September 16, 2019; Today we welcomed Richard Pfeil of Pfeil Innovation Center, as he presented "Demographics of our Population at the National, State, and Local levels projected through 2050"
 
 
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting September 16, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-09-16 04:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting September 9, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-09-09 04:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting August 26, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-08-26 04:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting August 5, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-08-05 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting July 29, 2019

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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on July 29, 2019; Today we welcomed both the Interact Club AND Rotary Peace Fellows Sarah and Jonathan Nahar. A special fifth-Monday 'double feature' presentation.
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting July 29, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-07-29 04:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting July 22, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-07-22 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting July 15, 2019

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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on July 15, 2019; Today we welcomed Wayne Stubbs, President of the Board of Directors of the Elkhart County Symphony Association (ECSA), as well as ECSA Co-Executive Directors Karen Braden and John Hill, a fellow Rotarian.
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting July 15, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-07-15 04:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting July 8, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-07-08 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting July 1, 2019

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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on July 1, 2019; Today our new 2019-2020 Club President Candy Yoder presided over her first meeting of the new year and we welcomed our District 6540 Governor Alfred Brothers, Jr., to give us an update on the state of the district and share plans and initiatives for this coming 2019-2020 Rotary year.
 
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting July 1, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-07-01 04:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting June 24, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-06-24 04:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting June 17, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-06-17 04:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting June 10, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-06-10 04:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting June 3, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-06-03 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting May 20 , 2019

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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on May 20, 2019; Today we welcomed Iris Hammel, Executive Director of Regional Innovation and Startup Education. Iris is a creative problem solver and lifelong learner with a passion for helping others to unleash their potential through connecting people, resources and ideas. Iris’s unique background consists of over ten years of both business and education. This experience includes being a co-founder of Connected Classrooms and TeachMe3D.org as well as starting an entrepreneurial middle school. Iris wants to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs to make a lasting impact on our community.
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting May 20 , 2019 Eric Garton 2019-05-27 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting May 13 , 2019

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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on May 13, 2019; Today we welcomed Brooke Ammerman from the University of Notre Dame Department of Psychology, speaking on "Suicide Prevention in Our Community – What You Can Do". Professor Ammerman’s research examines the spectrum of self-injurious thoughts and behaviors, including non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), suicidal ideation, and suicide attempts; she works from the framework that self-injurious thoughts and behaviors serve as an extreme means of emotion regulation.
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting May 13 , 2019 Eric Garton 2019-05-13 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting May 6, 2019

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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on May 6, 2019; Today we welcomed speaker Bryan Ritchie, Ph.D., M.B.A. and vice president and associate provost for innovation at the University of Notre Dame. In this role, Ritchie leads the University’s new IDEA Center initiative and coordinates the University’s innovation, commercialization and entrepreneurship programs. 
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting May 6, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-05-06 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting April 29, 2019

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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on April 29, 2019; Today we welcomed speaker Dr. Jessica Payne from the University of Notre Dame, whose presentation title was: "Sleep on it! There's More to it that Just the Old Adage". Dr. Payne’s research focuses on how sleep and stress influence human memory and psychological function.
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting April 29, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-04-29 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting April 15, 2019

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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on April 15, 2019; Today we hosted a special meeting to conduct a civil debate between contested mayoral primary Democratic candidates Ashley Boling Molyneaux and Rod Roberson.
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting April 15, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-04-15 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting April 8, 2019

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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on April 8, 2019; Today we welcomed the committee formed to propose an Elkhart Boat House, rowing program, and Portage Park located at the old Alick's property along the south side of the St. Joe River; namely: Tom Shoff, Tripp Bradford, John Banks, and architect Jeff Helman.
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting April 8, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-04-08 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting April 1, 2019

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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on April 1, 2019; Today we welcomed members of our own club: Erin Wagler, Andy McCaskey, Anthony Hunt, Jason Bryant, and Eric Garton as they presented the Marketing Committee's primary tools for promotion and community awareness; namely our elkhartrotary.org website, Clubrunner, the Clubrunner app, FaceBook, and the rotary.org website.
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting April 1, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-04-01 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting March 25, 2019

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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on March 25, 2019; Today we welcomed Dr. Jann Joseph, Chancellor, Indiana University South Bend, and her guests Jennifer Essig, MA, CCC-SLP, Clinical Assistant Professor and Dr. Dennis Cleary, OTR/L, Associate Professor, the Program Directors of the IUSB Speech-Language Pathology and Occupational Therapy programs.
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting March 25, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-03-25 04:00:00Z 0

Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting March 11, 2019

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Welcome to the Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting on March 11, 2019; Today we welcomed Tami Silverman, President and CEO Indiana Youth Institute, as well as her colleague Charlie Geier, Impact, Data Solutions & Statewide Advocacy Vice President for IYI.
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting March 11, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-03-11 04:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting March 4, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-03-04 05:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting February 25, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-02-26 05:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting February 18, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-02-19 05:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting February 11, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-02-11 05:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting February 4, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-02-04 05:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting January 28, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-01-31 05:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting January 21, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-01-21 05:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting January 14, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-01-14 05:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting January 7, 2019 Eric Garton 2019-01-07 05:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting December 17, 2018 Eric Garton 2018-12-18 05:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Community Organization Grants Available for Spring 2019! Eric Garton 2018-12-06 05:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting December 3, 2018 Eric Garton 2018-12-03 05:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting November 12, 2018 Eric Garton 2018-11-18 05:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting November 5, 2018 Eric Garton 2018-11-05 05:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting October 29, 2018 Eric Garton 2018-10-29 04:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting October 15, 2018 Eric Garton 2018-10-19 04:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting October 8, 2018 Eric Garton 2018-10-10 04:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting October 1, 2018 Eric Garton 2018-10-02 04:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting September 24, 2018 Eric Garton 2018-09-24 04:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting September 17, 2018 Eric Garton 2018-09-17 04:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting September 10, 2018 Eric Garton 2018-09-10 04:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting, August 27, 2018 Eric Garton 2018-08-27 04:00:00Z 0

Interact News

Rotary Interact Group Assists in a Build
For Habiat for Humanity
 
 
Several members of the Rotary Interact group particpiated in a build for Habitat for Humanity on Saturday, April 21st.  Included among the group were: Will Nolan, Bryan Ramirez, Henry Gatzemeyer, Elley Kuehne, Abi Downs, Austin Arbaugh, Abraham Hill and John Rehmels. 
 
See more pictures by clicking the link below.
Interact News 2018-05-01 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--April 23, 2018 2018-04-26 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--April 16, 2018 2018-04-26 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--April 2, 2018 2018-04-09 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--March 26, 2018 2018-03-29 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--March 19, 2018 2018-03-21 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--January 22, 2018 2018-01-23 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--December 4, 2017 2017-12-05 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--November 27, 2017 2017-11-28 05:00:00Z 0
Interact Group Activity 2017-10-31 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--October 23, 2017 2017-10-24 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--October 9, 2017 2017-10-10 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--September 25, 2017 2017-09-26 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--September 11, 2017 2017-09-13 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--August 28, 2017 2017-09-07 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--August 14, 2017 2017-08-15 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--August 7, 2017 2017-08-10 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--July 24, 2017 2017-07-25 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--July 10, 2017 2017-07-11 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--June 19, 2017 2017-06-23 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--May 22, 2017 2017-05-23 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--May 8, 2017 2017-05-14 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap, May 1, 2017 2017-05-02 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--April 24, 2017 2017-04-25 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--March 20, 2017 2017-03-28 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--March 13, 2017 2017-03-15 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--March 6, 2017 2017-03-12 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--February 27, 2017 2017-02-28 05:00:00Z 0

Club Meeting Recap--Februrary 13, 2017

Annual Grant Committee Awards Announced
 
(more details available in from the "read more" link below)
 

The Grant Committee met recently to review 26 applications from well deserved non-profit agencies in our community.  A total of $28,800 in funds were requested from these to support positive results for within their agency and our community.  

This year our club was able to support grant requests to non-profits for a total of $9,000.   The recipients for the 2017 year include:

ADEC = $500

Church Community Services = $750

Council on Aging = $500

Jr. Achievement & Lemonade Day = $500

LoveWay = $456

Renew = $1,500

Roosevelt STEAM Academy = $400

Ryan's Place = $750

United Cancer Services of Elkhart = $1,000

Wellfield Botanic Gardens = $850

WVPE = $1,000

YWCA North Central Indiana = $800 

Club Meeting Recap--Februrary 13, 2017 2017-02-14 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--February 6, 2017 2017-02-09 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--January 30, 2017 2017-02-02 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--January 23, 2017 2017-01-24 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--January 16, 2017 2017-01-19 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--January 9, 2017 2017-01-11 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--December 13, 2016 2016-12-14 05:00:00Z 0
For All Elkhart Rotarians 2016-12-06 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--November 28, 2016 2016-11-29 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--November 21, 2016 2016-11-22 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--November 7, 2016 2016-11-08 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--October 31, 2016 2016-11-02 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--October 17, 2016 2016-10-24 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--October 10, 2016 2016-10-11 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--October 3, 2016 2016-10-04 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--September 26, 2016 2016-09-27 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--September 19, 2016 2016-09-21 04:00:00Z 0
A Special "Thank You!" 2016-09-06 04:00:00Z 0

Special Event:

 
 
 
Join us this Saturday,
 
August 27, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
 
at Wellfield Botanic Gardens
 
Elkhart Rotary's Signature Event!
 
(Click here for detailed information)
 
 
Special Event: 2016-08-24 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--August 22, 2016 2016-08-24 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--August 15, 2016 2016-08-16 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--August 8, 2016 2016-08-10 04:00:00Z 0

Club Meeting Recap--August 1, 2016

Posted on Aug 05, 2016
Rotarian, Doug Risser, Speaks About His
Recent Rotary Friendship Exchange
Trip to Turkey
 
 
Former Rotary President, Terri Rickel, Presents
Greg Anders and Cindy Lindahl with a
Distinguished Service Award
 
Club Meeting Recap--August 1, 2016 2016-08-05 04:00:00Z 0

.

 
Wellfield Botanic Gardens Presents:
 
Groovin' in the Gardens
(rain or shine under the big tent)
 
Thursday, August 4th, 7:00 p. m.
 
Featuring "Harmonious Wail"
 
(click above for a musical sample)
 
 
. 2016-08-03 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--July 25, 2016 2016-07-26 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--July 18, 2016 2016-07-21 04:00:00Z 0

Thank You, Marie Drake!

Our Club Secretary, Marie Drake, is Presented with an
Award Honoring Her Many Years of Dedicated Service
Thank You, Marie!
 
Thank You, Marie Drake! 2016-06-23 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meerting Recap--June 20, 2016 2016-06-23 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--June 13, 2016 2016-06-15 04:00:00Z 0

Club Meeting Recap--June 6, 2016

Posted on Jun 09, 2016
Doug Risser is Presented with the Lifetime Achievement
Award, "Avenue of Service Citation" by
District Governor, Roger Simms
 
 
Karen Sommers, Director of the Dean Ornish Program
for Beacon Health System, and Knoll Yarger, a Program
Graduate, Tell the Club About the Program
 
  
Club Meeting Recap--June 6, 2016 2016-06-09 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--May 23, 2016 2016-05-24 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--May 9, 2016 2016-05-10 04:00:00Z 0

Club Meeting Recap--May 2, 2016

Posted on May 04, 2016
Matt Miller, President of Newmar Corporation,
Tells the Club about the Manufacture
of High-End RVs
 
 
Our Club Exchanges Flags with Visiting Rotarian
Ondrej Tuma from the Czech Republic
 
Club Meeting Recap--May 2, 2016 2016-05-04 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--April 25, 2016 2016-04-29 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--April 18, 2016 2016-04-21 04:00:00Z 0

Club Meeting Recap--April 11, 2016

Elkhart Rotary Honors Our First Responders
 
 
The April 11th meeting of the Elkhart Rotary Club was a special day for the public safety officers of our community.  Elkhart Rotary honored the men and women of the 911 Center, Emergency Management, Elkhart Fire and Elkhart Police Departments.  Over 100 officers for the respective agency’s attended the luncheon and listened to presentations by Dan Shaffer of 911, John Faigh of Emergency Management, Police Chief Ed Windbigler and Fire Chief Chad Carey. Mayor Timothy Neese made closing remarks.
Club Meeting Recap--April 11, 2016 2016-04-14 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--April 4, 2016 2016-04-06 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--March 28, 2016 2016-03-29 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--March 14, 2016 2016-03-17 04:00:00Z 0

Volunteer Saturdays

"Volunteer Saturdays"
at Wellfield Botanic Gardens
(We need YOU!)
 
Come out and volunteer at Wellfield Botanic Gardens horticultural area, beginning Saturday May 14, 9:00am - 11:00am.  All club members will receive one make-up credit when they volunteer to help.  Volunteer Saturdays will be on the 2nd and 4th of each month through October.   Bring your family and friends, (children should be 10 and older), and dress appropriately to "dig-in" and help make our gardens grow!
 
Volunteer Saturdays 2016-03-14 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--March 7, 2016 2016-03-11 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--February 29, 2016 2016-03-02 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--February 22, 2016 2016-02-26 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--February 8, 2016 2016-02-11 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--January 25, 2016 2016-02-05 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--January 11, 2016 2016-01-13 05:00:00Z 0

Rotary Foundation Fellowship Event

 
 
YOU'RE INVITED!
 
Rotary Foundation Fellowship Event
February 12, 2016
6:00 p.m.
Peddler's Village Event Center
 
Sponsored by the Rotary Clubs from Elkhart, Goshen, and Concord
 
(Click here for more details and to register)
 
 
Rotary Foundation Fellowship Event 2016-01-11 05:00:00Z 0

In Memory of Jim Brotherson

 
Longtime Elkhart Rotary member, Jim Brotherson, passed away on December 18th.  Jim was a Rotary member since May 1, 1979 and past president of Rotary 1993–94. In April of this year the Elkhart Noon Rotary presented Jim with the J & K Kissinger award for his 36 years of service in civic and community affairs.
 
(please click below for more about Jim)
In Memory of Jim Brotherson 2016-01-08 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--December 7, 2015 2015-12-10 05:00:00Z 0

Interact in Action!

Posted on Dec 01, 2015
Interact Students Ring Bells for Salvation Army
 
 
 
Pictured above are  Alexx Freshour and Michael O'Toole
(more below)
Interact in Action! 2015-12-01 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--November 16, 2015 2015-11-17 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--November 9, 2015 2015-11-09 05:00:00Z 0

Rotary in the Community

Posted on Nov 06, 2015
Interact Students Assist with CR 6 Clean-up
 
 
Pictured above are: Gabi Nolan, Taylor Sotebeer, Emily Decker, Brandon Ball, and Trevor Piazza 
Rotary in the Community 2015-11-06 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--November 2, 2015 2015-11-05 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--October 19 & 26, 2015 2015-11-05 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--October 12, 2015 2015-10-14 04:00:00Z 0
Congratulations, Elkhart Rotarians, on Perfect Attendance! 2015-10-12 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--October 5, 2015 2015-10-09 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--September 21, 2015 2015-09-29 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--September 14, 2015 2015-09-17 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--August 24, 2015 2015-08-26 04:00:00Z 0

Don't Miss....

Join us this Monday, August 31st, for a Special Evening Meeting
(see details below)
 
Don't Miss.... 2015-08-26 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--August 17, 2015 2015-08-20 04:00:00Z 0
Join us This Saturday for "Taste of the Gardens" 2015-08-18 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--August 10, 2015 2015-08-11 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--August 3, 2015 2015-08-04 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--July 27, 2015 2015-07-28 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--July 20, 2015 2015-07-23 04:00:00Z 0

In Memory of Bill Petersen

Posted on Jul 19, 2015
 
Bill Petersen, a longtime Rotary member since 1980, passed away July 16, 2015.  Bill was a member of the Membership Caring Committee.  One to always call or visit Rotarians who were home bound or in the hospital.  A very stoic man with a special warmth to all that knew him.
 
(click below to read more)
In Memory of Bill Petersen 2015-07-19 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--July 13, 2015 2015-07-18 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--July 6, 2015 2015-07-07 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--June 29, 2015 2015-07-01 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--June 8, 2015 2015-06-10 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--June 1, 2015 2015-06-03 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--May 18, 2015 2015-05-20 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--May 11, 2015 2015-05-14 04:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--May 4, 2015 2015-05-06 00:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--April 27, 2015 2015-04-28 00:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--April 20, 2015 2015-04-21 00:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--April 13, 2015 2015-04-20 00:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--April 6, 2015 2015-04-07 00:00:00Z 0
April 3, 2015 2015-04-03 00:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--March 23, 2015 2015-03-26 00:00:00Z 0
Meeting times and locations for some nearby Rotary Clubs 2015-03-18 00:00:00Z 0
Rotary Dollars 2015-03-18 00:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--March 9, 2015 2015-03-12 00:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--March 2, 2015 2015-03-04 00:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--February 23, 2015 2015-02-24 00:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--February 16, 2015 2015-02-17 00:00:00Z 0

Club Meeting Recap--February 9, 2015

Posted on Feb 10, 2015

Greg Losasso, President of Elkhart General Hospital, Speaks to the Club

Mayor Dick Moore Makes a Proclamation Recognizing Elkhart General

Dr. Don Westerhausen Discusses Cardiac Care at Elkhart General

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Club Meeting Recap--February 9, 2015 2015-02-11 00:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--January 26, 2015 2015-01-27 00:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--January 19, 2015 2015-01-21 00:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--January 12, 2015 2015-01-13 00:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--January 5, 2015 2015-01-06 00:00:00Z 0

In Memory of Denny Gill

Posted on Jan 04, 2015

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Denny Gill, a long-time member of the Elkhart Rotary Club, died Tuesday, December 23, 2014. A lifetime area resident, Denny graduated from Goshen High School in 1960 and served in the U.S. Navy Reserves. He married Judith Gregory in 1985 and they had two sons, Jeff and Jamie.

Denny worked for Stoutco Inc. for over 48 years.  During that time rose from his initial position as a metal fabricator, beginning in 1966, to the position of company president in 2000.  He served in that capacity for 13 years.

Denny was a very active member of Rotary since 1999. He served in many leadership roles, including membership and fellowship. He also served for several years on the advisory board for the Salvation Army, where he was involved in fundraising, fund appropriation and supporting the annual gala.

He will be deeply missed by our Rotary club and by all who were privileged to know him.

In Memory of Denny Gill 2015-01-04 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--December 15, 2014 2014-12-16 00:00:00Z 0

In Memory of Don Krabill

Posted on Dec 15, 2014

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Don Krabill, a long-time member of our Elkhart Rotary Club, died on Sunday, November 2, 2014.  Don received his education at Goshen College. He met and married Jurate in Paris. They had two children, Derek and Heather, who reside in New York and Oregon.

Don was chair of the Elkhart General Hospital Board of Directors; chair of the Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce; served on the Elkhart Chamber Education Foundation; chair of the affiliated Elkhart General Hospital-Memorial Hospital governing body, Beacon Health Systems; and a founder and President of the Elkhart Center.

He will be greatly missed by his family and friends and all Rotarians who knew him.

 

In Memory of Don Krabill 2014-12-15 05:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--December 1, 2014 2014-12-03 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Interact Trip To Nosara, Costa Rica 2014

Posted on Jul 16, 2014

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For the past ten years the Elkhart Rotary Club has sponsored the Interact Group for their annual activities and most of all, the Senior Service Project Trip to Nosara, Costa Rica. This year there were not any eligible high school seniors that could make the trip so it was decided to instead take regular Rotary members to do the much needed work. The participants this year were Tony Warning, Martha Peterson, Doug and Sharon Risser, Connie Caiceros, and Kim Clarke.

All service trips in the past have been involved with working/volunteering at the David S. Kitson Memorial Library in Nosara, Costa Rica. The library is only one of two lending libraries in the entire country of Costa Rica.  In addition to being a library to the local Tico population it is also a computer learning center, English language learning center, senior center, as well as many other uses.

Our work at the Library this year was mainly involved with compiling an inventory of all the literature in the building. This is always a huge task as the local people that use the library do not understand the concept of “lending”. Many of the books are not returned and have to be replaced. In years past the Interact Group has been involved with various projects including construction, moving, painting, book repairing, and even helping with English lessons for the local population.

The biggest contribution that we continue to do is our annual monetary donation to the Library. This year the Interact Club donated $3500 to the annual operating budget of the Library. The money comes from revenue generated by the Rotary Placemat advertising campaign. The  $3500 Interact/Rotary donation amount is 1/10 of the entire annual operating budget for the Library. They appreciate the Elkhart Rotary Club very much! Our Elkhart Rotary name is even on the Founders Plaque located on the wall of the Library.

For the 2014-15 calendar year we expect that the Interact Group will have 10-12 Seniors that will make the trip to Nosara. Angie Welter and Vince Von Der Vellen will be club sponsors and will also accompany the Interact Group to Nosara. The Interact group should have a total of 25-30 students as members for this next school year.

Over the past years several Elkhart Rotary Members have journeyed to Nosara to check out the Library. Please think about that when planning your next vacation. It is a great place to visit. Please feel free to contact me if you would like more information on the library.

Kind Regards,

Tony Warning/Interact Sponsor 

Rotary Interact Trip To Nosara, Costa Rica 2014 2014-07-17 00:00:00Z 0

Congratulations, Elkhart Rotarians!

Posted by Richard Kallenberg on Jun 30, 2014

We have exceeded our annual giving goal for the Rotary International Foundation.  The most recent report from RI indicates that our giving for the last Rotary year was $25,803.25.  We knew we could do it and you made it happen.  Thank you for your wonderful generosity.  The world is a better place because you give.  

-- Dick Kallenberg, Foundation Chair

Congratulations, Elkhart Rotarians! Richard Kallenberg 2014-07-01 00:00:00Z 0

In Memory of Bob Stackhouse

Posted by Richard Kallenberg on Jun 09, 2014

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Bob Stackhouse died June 4 following a brief illness.  An active member of St. John's Church, Bob was one of the first people I met when we moved to Elkhart in June of 1987.  Along with Harold Borneman and others from St. John's, Bob was one of the men who invited me to join Elkhart Rotary.  He joined this club in April of 1978 and he was faithful in his attendance up until three weeks or so ago when his health began to fail.

It is hard to measure a person's life in a few words.  Bob was a veteran of the U.S. Army, which he joined in March of 1945.  He was a graduate of Purdue University.  He spent his entire professional life working for a local company:  CTS where he was engaged in sales and management.  He was actively engaged in the life of this community, serving on the boards of the Salvation Army and the Elkhart County Council on Aging. He was on the founding board of the Elkhart Railroad Museum.

Bob married his high school sweetheart, Mary Lou, a marriage that lasted 67 1/2 years.  He leaves behind three daughters,  eight grand children and seven great grandchildren. 

I knew him best as a member of this Club and as a faithful member and leader of St. John's Episcopal Church where I served as Rector for 20+ years.  He was a quiet man, a family man, a gentleman, and a Christian man.  He will be missed.

--Dick Kallenberg

In Memory of Bob Stackhouse Richard Kallenberg 2014-06-10 00:00:00Z 0

Remembering Bob Pfaff

Posted by Shannon White on May 12, 2014

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Robert "Bob" Pfaff, an Elkhart attorney, practicing corporate and civil law, was a Rotarian, a Paul Harris Fellow and a friend to all who knew him. His practice of law gave him opportunity to meet and to know many people of the community. Once he had met you, he remembered your name, a wonderful trait that many of us fail to master.

While serving in the U. S. Army, he married Elizabeth "Betty" Anne Moore. They had four children and five grandchildren, and they were all at his side when he died May 9, 2014.

For several years, Bob assembled fellow Rotarians, chartered a bus and traveled to Ann Arbor for the University of Michigan football games. Everyone had a grand time, even if Michigan lost the game, which didn't happen often. He was the last person to serve a full year as sergeant-at-arms for the club.  I believe that was the 1978-79 Rotary year.  He was club president in 1971-72. It was a good year. We, who knew him, feel a loss.  Rest in peace, Bob.

 

Remembering Bob Pfaff Shannon White 2014-05-13 00:00:00Z 0

In Memory of Fred Mischke

Posted by Shannon White on May 05, 2014

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Fred, 83, died May 1, 2014.  He will be sorely missed by wife, Lori, of 30 years, two children, two grandchildren, family, friends and fellow Rotarians, with whom he had years of fellowship and fun.  He was a dedicated Elkhart Rotarian.
 
In January of 1972 he joined the Elkhart Rotary club with the classification of mobile home manufacturing.  He was vice-president and treasurer of Skyline Corporation, a national pioneer and leader of manufactured homes. 
 
The "new guy" became immediately active, serving as chair of the Sergeant-at-Arms Committee.  During the 1973-74 Rotary year Fred was elected to the board of directors and served as club president in 1976-77.  No other member, before or since, advanced so rapidly to the club's top position.
 
Over the ensuing years, Fred worked on several service committees: Club, Community, International and Vocational.  For the past eighteen years he has been chief money counter as Rotarians rang bells for the Salvation Army "Tree of Lights" campaign.  With an extensive background in finance, he could count the money nearly as fast as the coin machine. 
 
Because of failing health the past year Fred was unable to attend club functions but he never dropped his membership, never lost his zeal for " Service Above Self", and he kept in touch with club members via telephone calls and emails.
In Memory of Fred Mischke Shannon White 2014-05-06 00:00:00Z 0

In Memory of Bill Heinhuis

Posted by Shannon White on Apr 21, 2014

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Bill joined Elkhart Rotary in April, 1970, being proposed by his father, William. With his father, Bill owned and operated Bill's Lumber, Inc. on Cassopolis street for many years. Bill served as our president, 1981-82 and as district governor, 1986-87. He was a Paul Harris Fellow and through a very generous gift to Rotary International, he and his wife Pat made it possible for other Rotarians to become Paul Harris Fellows.

Bill wore his Rotary pin with pride. Bill was a fine family man, good to his wife and generous to his children and grandchildren. His grandchildren loved to hear his made-up stories about the infamous Harry Horsethief. He was an active member of the Elkhart Municipal Band for fifty-plus years, and in the early years played in our Rotary Roaming Band during our Salvation Army bell ringing event.

Bill was a down-to-Earth kind of guy, friendly and a proud American. Sorry to report that he should be added to the list of Elkhart Rotarians who have died this Rotary year. His obituary was in the April 21st edition of the Elkhart Truth--Shan

In Memory of Bill Heinhuis Shannon White 2014-04-22 00:00:00Z 0

Members Marketplace

Posted on Aug 05, 2013

This is a brand new section of the website to give our members an outlet for announcements that may not be appropriate from the meeting podium.  These might include things like:

  • Job openings in your company you would like other Rotarians to know about
  • Information about your not-for-profit organization and how to contribute
  • Upcoming community events you would like to promote

All items should be submitted to Greg Anders by email through the website.

 

 

Members Marketplace 2013-08-06 00:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--June 24, 2013 Gregory Anders 2013-06-25 00:00:00Z 0
Club Meeting Recap--June 17, 2013 Gregory Anders 2013-06-18 00:00:00Z 0

Club Meeting Recap--June 10, 2013

Posted by Gregory Anders on Jun 10, 2013

Evan Bontrager speaks about the Pumkinvine Nature Trail and the wonderful recreational opportunity it offers for Michiana's bike riders.

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Club Meeting Recap--June 10, 2013 Gregory Anders 2013-06-11 00:00:00Z 0
Special Thanks on Fifth Monday evening 2013-05-03 00:00:00Z 0
Report on District Conference 2013-05-03 00:00:00Z 0
J & K Kissinger Award 2013-05-03 00:00:00Z 0
Group Study Exchange 2013-05-03 00:00:00Z 0
Welcome New Member Andrew Harman 2013-05-03 00:00:00Z 0
May Anniversaries 2013-05-03 00:00:00Z 0
May Birthdays 2013-05-03 00:00:00Z 0
2013 Taste of the Gardens 2013-05-03 00:00:00Z 0
Membership Changes 2013-05-03 00:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Caring Committee Maria Slager 2013-05-03 00:00:00Z 0
Congratulations Elkhart Rotary on Foundation Giving! 2013-04-02 00:00:00Z 0
Thank you letter from Church Community Services 2013-03-31 00:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Member Chuck Kelson 2013-02-27 00:00:00Z 0
Welcome New Member Roger Duffy 2013-02-27 00:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary printed, pocket size club directory 2013-02-19 00:00:00Z 0
Letter From Charles Miller 2013-02-19 00:00:00Z 0
District Rotary Grant 2013-02-10 00:00:00Z 0
Paul Harris Fellows Presented 2013-01-07 00:00:00Z 0
New member induction 2013-01-07 00:00:00Z 0
In Memory of Rotarian Janice Ruszkowski 2012-12-31 00:00:00Z 0
District Foundation Dinner 2012-12-16 00:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting December 11, 2012 2012-12-16 00:00:00Z 0
District 6540 Marie Drake 2012-12-02 00:00:00Z 0
2012 Salvation Army Campaign Mike Lobeck 2012-11-21 00:00:00Z 0
Welcome New Member Michael Kemp 2012-11-21 00:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting November 19, 2012 2012-11-21 00:00:00Z 0
Donations 2012 2012-11-21 00:00:00Z 0
Thank you from Gene Hungate 2012-11-14 00:00:00Z 0
Welcome New Member Connie Caiceros 2012-11-14 00:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotary Club Meeting November 12, 2012 2012-11-12 00:00:00Z 0
Reflections on the Foundation Dinner 2012-11-01 00:00:00Z 0
Rotary License Plate Marie Drake 2012-10-16 00:00:00Z 0
Visit our Facebook page 2012-09-18 00:00:00Z 0
Board of Directors Change Marie Drake 2012-08-12 00:00:00Z 0
Welcome New Honorary Rotarian - Nick Simons 2012-07-16 00:00:00Z 0
Bulgaria Picnic at the Wellfield Gardens, Monday, June 4th Marie Drake 2012-05-22 00:00:00Z 0
Attendance Make-up Marie Drake 2012-01-02 00:00:00Z 0
Committee Chairs and Members Marie Drake 2011-12-05 00:00:00Z 0

Rotarian Beryl Boss

Posted on Jul 13, 2011
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Beryl E. Boss – Born July 4, 1933

A Rotarian since 1996 died on June 23, 2011. Beryl exemplified Tom Brokaw’s book “The Greatest Generation.”

 

Beryl
Rotarian Beryl Boss 2011-07-14 00:00:00Z 0
Elkhart Rotarian Myrl Nofziger presented the Service Above Self Award. Marie Drake 2011-04-27 00:00:00Z 0
Group Study Exchange 2011-04-17 00:00:00Z 0
District Rotary Foundation Dinner 2010 Marie Drake 2011-01-02 00:00:00Z 0
Haiti 0
Presentation in Brazil Marie Drake 0
Eden Update 0

Taste of the Gardens

Posted by Terri Rickel

Taste of the Gardens

                                         2010

Taste of the Gardens Terri Rickel 0
Dean Hupp Paul Harris 0
GSE Marie Drake 0