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/

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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!

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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
Salvation Army Campaign 2010 Scott Puckett 2011-01-02 00:00:00Z 0
Club meeting November 22nd Tom Shoff 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
Foundation Recognition 0
Dean Hupp Paul Harris 0
GSE Marie Drake 0