Rotary Club Of Grand Rapids

9.7.17 - "Rotary in the PM" - RSVP required
2017-09-07 16:00 - 18:00 (America/Detroit) | Colliers International, 333 Bridge St NW, Suite 1200, Grand Rapids, MI, 49504, United States
Jason Webb and Colliers will be hosting our second “Rotary in the PM” meeting.
Please join us for networking, appetizers and drinks at Colliers International in Bridgewater Place overlooking beautiful downtown Grand Rapids.
We will have a modified program followed by an opportunity to network with fellow Rotarians while enjoying the view of the city from Colliers 12th Floor. Parking will be validated. Driving Directions
We hope that you will bring your spouses, friends, co-workers, clients and prospect members to this fun event.

***********************************************************************************************************************************
Colliers International is one of the most respected names in the commercial real estate industry because of the innovative results we deliver to our clients. With a culture devoted to service excellence, the West Michigan organization has a reputation that rests on its ability to create effective, customized solutions for a broad spectrum of client needs. Defined by our spirit of enterprise, Colliers International leverages the vast resources of our global network and local expertise to provide superb services to accelerate the success of our clients. Our advisors rely on teaming to offer the best services to our clients. This collaborative effort allows the organization to create customized solutions and offer specialized focus to each and every project. Together, we are committed to ensuring that our clients have the best possible experience and that we deliver solutions that meet their objectives and drive their success and their business forward.

8.31.17 - No Luncheon - Labor Day recognition
2017-08-31 12:00 - 13:15

8.24.17 - Volunteer for Disability Advocates ADA Compliance
2017-08-24 16:30 - 17:00
Volunteer Opportunity with Disability Advocates
Thursday, August 24 1:30pm-4:30pm
Groups of two will evaluate the sidewalks and curb crossings walking along Division, starting at Fulton, and heading south to Wealthy.
We will meet at the Urban Institute of Contemporary Art (UICA).
Family, friends, & co-workers are invited, as well. Please reach out to Dave Bulkowski @ dave.b@dakc.us, if you are interested or have questions.

8.24.17 - Rosalynn Bliss
2017-08-24 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Mayor Rosalynn Bliss became the City of Grand Rapids’ first female Mayor when she took office on January 1, 2016. She previously served as a Second Ward City Commissioner for 10 years.
Mayor Bliss also is an adjunct professor at Grand Valley State University’s School of Social Work. She earned bachelor’s degrees in psychology and criminal justice from the University of South Alabama and a master’s in social work from Michigan State University.
Mayor Bliss is active in her profession and in the community. She is President of the Michigan Municipal League and serves on the boards of the Downtown Development Authority, Experience Grand Rapids, Grand Valley Metro Council, Kent County Land Bank Authority and Interurban Transit Partnership, among many other organizations.
She is a member of the West Michigan Environmental Leadership Network, and she serves on the Mayors Innovation Project Steering Committee.
Mayor Bliss has been recognized and honored locally as well as statewide for her commitment, dedication and work in the field of child abuse and neglect and for her leadership in the community. Recognitions include:

Crain’s 100 Most Influential Women
Grand Rapids Business Journal’s 50 Most Influential Women in West Michigan
Five-time recipient of Grand Rapids Business Journal’s 40 Under Forty distinction
West Michigan Public Relations Society of America’s Communicator of the Year Award
ATHENA Young Professional Award
Tim Pope Memorial Award for Outstanding Young Governmental Leader
Christine Nelson Professional Award for Service to Children
Michigan Professional Society on the Abuse of Children Special Recognition Award

As Mayor, she is committed to supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs as well as addressing disparities in our community and making sure that Grand Rapids is the place for everyone.
She also is committed to engaging the community in local government and encouraging citizens – particularly women and minorities – to serve on boards and commissions. She believes that local government needs to reflect the diverse community in which we live.

8.17.17 - Johnny Brann Sr. & Johnny Brann Jr.
2017-08-17 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Johnny Brann Sr.
Johnny Sr. is a second-generation restauranteur with over forty years of experience. Along, with his brothers Tommy and Mike, Johnny has extended the legacy of their famous father, John Brann Sr., who made the sizzling sirloin steak a favorite dinner in Grand Rapids. Brann’s Steakhouse & Grille now has ten locations across Michigan and is heavily involved in the communities they serve.
Johnny Brann Sr. is a leading advocate for law enforcement, tirelessly fundraising, volunteering, and spearheading efforts to support families of fallen officers, dedicate police memorials (including the Service Above Selfie grand prize winning contribution to the Richmond Park Memorial), and challenge local government to increase funding. Further, Johnny continues to aid Veterans and active military, as well as fire departments, and other emergency/first responder heroes. He also gives back to his community by serving small business groups, neighborhood associations, school systems and youth sports programs, and many other local and non-profit organizations.

Johnny Brann Jr.
Johnny Jr. continues the proud family restaurant tradition by growing both the legendary Brann’s Steakhouse & Grille brand and the new Kitchen 67 brand. Like his father, Johnny is committed to growing his surrounding communities and giving back to various organizations. Johnny serves on multiple boards, including West Leonard Business Association, West Grand Neighborhood Association, Grand Rapids Transformation Advisory Council, GR Community Challenge Foundation Scholars Program, and more. He was named to GRBJ’s “40 Under 40” List and continually advocates for youth education programs (Back to School Kids Parade and Games) and fighting hunger (Feed the Hungry).

8.10.17 - Matt Chapman and Wendy Ogilvie
2017-08-10 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Matt Chapman, Project coordinator and director of Grand Rapids Whitewater earned a BS in Advertising and Public Relations and holds a Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Leadership from Grand Valley State University. Matt spent his summers as a child playing in and along the Chippewa River in Midland, MI. where he first developed a passion for the outdoors. Matt came to Grand Rapids Whitewater in 2015 after serving as the Executive Director of Alternatives in Motion for four years. Matt brings over 10 years of nonprofit fundraising and leadership development experience to the Grand Rapids Whitewater team and is excited to be part the historic effort to put the rapids back in the Grand for everyone.

Wendy Ogilvie, Director of Environmental Programs; Grand Valley Metro Council (GVMC)
Wendy holds a BS in Forestry from The University of Michigan and an MS in Resource Development from Michigan State University. She worked for Fishbeck, Thompson, Carr & Huber, Inc. for 13 years focusing on water resource management projects. She joined GVMC in 2013 as the Director of Environmental Programs. Her work focuses on watershed & stormwater management, including facilitating Municipal Stormwater Permits and promoting green infrastructure practices. She is currently working with partners through facilitating Municipal Stormwater Permits and promoting green infrastructure practices. She is currently working with partners through the Lower Grand River Organization of Watersheds and Grand Rapids Whitewater to restore connective and improve habitat in the Grand River.
Presentation Description: Grand Rapids Whitewater is an innovative, local nonprofit organization focused on the revitalization of the Grand River through Grand Rapids and restoration of the city’s historic namesake rapids. The goals of this project are to expand recreational uses, improve aquatic habitats, enhance environmental quality of the community, and boost tourism, business growth and employment opportunities along the riverfront in Grand Rapids and throughout West Michigan. Grand Rapids Whitewater, in partnership with numerous agencies and organizations, including the City of Grand Rapids and the Grand Valley Metro Council, has been studying the project since 2009. This presentation will illustrate historical uses of the Grand River, showcase the complexities of the project, provide a current project update, and explore the environmental, economic, and social benefits associated with a revitalized Grand River system.

8.7.17 - 21st Annual Rotary Open
2017-08-07 12:00 - 18:30 | Blythefield Country Club, 5801 Northland Dr, Belmont, MI, 49306, United States
The Rotary Club of Grand Rapids and the Rotary Club of Grand Rapids Charities Foundation presents the 21st annual Rotary Open on Monday, August 7, 2017 at 12:00pm at Blythefield Country Club. A day of food, fun and fellowship will support the charities of the Grand Rapids Rotary Club.
To become a SPONSOR to register to GOLF, or to join the 19th Hole Awards Celebration click here: Sponsor/Registration Form
Among the philanthropic programs supported by Rotary, this year’s event will assist STRIVE, a mentoring program, providing scholarships for high school seniors in Grand Rapids Public Schools; Indian Trails Camp, which empowers individuals with disabilities by providing enrichment services for people of all abilities; Senior Neighbor Holiday Luncheon, bringing joy and happiness to seniors during the Holiday season; and Boyden-Shearer Scholarships, providing several college scholarships to Grand Rapids areas high school seniors, just to name a few.
Eighteen holes of golf, lunch, 19th Hole Awards Celebration and a cash bar, along with Live and Silent auctions will make for a fun filled day, while supporting local organizations.
The fee for GOLFERS is $200 per person and includes an 18 hole golf scramble, (6) $100 competition holes, a hole-in-one (car to be determined), driving and practice ranges, boxed lunch with soft drinks on course, beverage station on course, 19th Hole Awards Celebration and access to the Live and Silent auctions.
Non-golfers are encouraged to attend the 19th Hole Awards Celebration. Join the golfers for a Happy Hour Cash Bar, heavy hors d’oeuvres with a carving station, access to the Live and Silent Auctions for $40 per person.
There is nothing more ROTARY than GOLF
Is it the TRUTH?
Absolutely, we never lie on the golf course, especially about our stroke count. Golfers are very honest people.
Is it FAIR to all concerned?
Of course, the course and game is set so all golfer have an equal opportunity. Tee off from Black, Blue White or Red and then we have a “handicap”. What could be fairer?
Will it build GOODWILL AND BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
The best friends in the world are your “golfing buddies”. There is nothing more friendly than four guys or gals playing a round of golf every Thursday or Saturday morning or spending four days in Palm Springs, Scottsdale or Hilton Head. And nothing brings more goodwill than friends playing a round of golf.
Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
The 21st Annual Rotary Open will benefit our Rotary Club of Grand Rapids Charities Foundation supporting it’s many philanthropic projects and programs.
We hope you will join us on Monday, August 7 at Blythefield Country Club where all is TRUTHFUL, FAIR, FRIENDLY AND BENEFICIAL TO ALL . After all, it is GOLF!
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!!!!!!
MAJOR SPONSOR

HOLE-IN-ONE SPONSOR

ACE SPONSORS

EAGLE SPONSOR

FAIRWAY SPONSOR
The Peter Secchia Family
PAR SPONSOR

PUTTING GREEN – SCORE CARD – SCORE BOARD – DRIVING RANGE SPONSORS

PROGRAM SPONSOR

TEE and GREEN SPONSORS
Rotary Club of Grand Rapids Board of Directors

TEE SPONSORS
Dr. Larry Robson

GREEN SPONSORS
George Trowbridge

8.03.17 - Carl VerBeek and Varnum
2017-08-03 16:00 - 18:00 | Varnum, 333 Bridge St NW - 17th Floor, Grand Rapids, MI, 49504
Please join us for our inaugural First Thursday afternoon meeting on Thursday, August 3, 4:00pm at Varnum. Please RSVP by 12:00pm on Friday, July 28th to the Rotary office at rotary@grrotary.org or by calling 616-459-5640.
We will have a modified program followed by an opportunity to network with fellow Rotarians and guests while enjoying the view of the city from Varnum’s rooftop terrace. Parking will be validated. driving_directions

7.27.17 - Tim Hileman
2017-07-27 12:00 - 13:15 | Indian Trails Camp, 0-1859 Lake Michigan Drive, Grand Rapids, MI, 49534, United States
EVERYONE WANTS ANOTHER BEST DAY
IKUS Life Enrichment Services helps individuals with disabilities to discover their potential, experience greater freedom, learn new skills, and have fun in a safe environment. Ultimately, IKUS gives clients the tools they need to make every day another best day.
Because everyone wants another best day, IKUS serves individuals from five years old to eighty-plus. We also serve clients with a wide variety of abilities, including spina bifida, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, congenital anomalies, down syndrome, autism, multiple sclerosis, arthrogryposis, cognitive impairments, and other developmental and/or physical abilities, helping them to live joyful, productive lives through services that address each person’s specific needs and goals.

SUPPORTING FAMILIES, GUARDIANS, AND CASEWORKERS
One of our goals is to serve our clients’ natural and support systems, making the lives of parents, guardians, and case managers easier. To that end, our services give caregivers a much-needed break from their duties. Even better, IKUS’s comprehensive suite of services help individuals with disabilities attain greater independence and satisfaction in their lives, which in turn brings greater satisfaction to those who care for them.

Indian Trails is a remarkable facility that brings adaptive recreation to the lives of each camper. It is simple in theory, but daunting in task. Indian Trails offers a barrier-free camp setting in which those with disabilities can participate in all manner of activities the outside world is ill-equipped to provide. It is a place filled with fun, recreation and friendship. Campers learn perseverance, team-work and self-reliance. They leave for home loaded with love, respect and memories.
The history of the partnership between Indian Trails Camp and the Grand Rapids Rotary Club is one of energy, commitment and loyalty. Since 1953 Rotarians have invested their time and money toward the success of the camp, helping Indian Trails become a community and state treasure, and one of only five camps in the nation serving the most disabled group with barrier-free camping facilities.
Indian Trails Camp, located six miles west of Grand Rapids, has been providing camping experiences to individuals with disabilities since 1953. Campers return year after year to suspend personal obstacles long enough to enjoy those activities we all remember as part of a treasured camping experience – swimming, canoeing, archery, music, competitive sports, challenge course, dances, and most of all, the opportunity to make friendships and build relationships that affirm and encourage greater self-discovery.
Indian Trails’ campers range in age from 5 to 70+ with such disabilities as: spina bifida; cerebral palsy; traumatic brain injury; congenital anomalies; down-syndrome; autism; multiple sclerosis; arthrogryposis and cognitive impairments.

7.20.17 - Jason Meyer
2017-07-20 12:00 - 13:15 | Blandford Nature Center, 1715 Hillburn Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, 49504, United States
Jason Meyer is currently the President and CEO at Blandford Nature Center in Grand Rapids, Michigan. With a background in conservation, environmental education, and nonprofit management, he brings a diverse set of skills and experiences to the profession. Over the past several years, Jason has led two nature centers in Michigan – Fenner Nature Center in Lansing, where he coordinated the transition of a city-owned nature center to nonprofit management and Blandford Nature Center, where his largest accomplishments are, so far, guiding the organization through a $10.3 million campaign and, separately from that campaign, the acquisition of the former Highlands Golf Club.
Jason was recognized by the Association of Nature Center Administrators as the inaugural Outstanding New Leader Award recipient in 2014 and was a finalist for the 2015 Exemplary Executive Award through the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Grand Rapids.

7.13.17 - Christian Gaines
2017-07-13 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Christian Gaines was born in Brussels, Belgium to American parents, moved to the United Kingdom when he was four years old, then came to the United States in 1984 to attend Vassar College, graduating in 1987 with a B.A. in English Literature.
In 1988, Christian helped to start the American Pavilion at the Cannes Film Festival, serving until 1994 as Administrative Director of this communication and hospitality center for the American film community attending Cannes. In 1990, he also went to work for the Hawaii International Film Festival as Administrator, and then served as Film Coordinator and Film Programmer in Hawaii from 1992 until 1994, dividing his time between Honolulu, Los Angeles and Cannes. During that time, he also coordinated the Asia-Pacific Film Tour, a fifteen-film, eleven-city tour of films from Asia and the Pacific Rim.
In August 1994, Christian was appointed Senior Film Programmer at the Sundance Film Festival where he was part of the team that programmed the 1995 and 1996 Sundance Film Festivals. He was also the first Director of New Media for the Sundance Institute and a consultant for the Sundance Channel. From 1996 to 2000 he served as Festival Director and Director of Programming for the Hawaii International Film Festival, where he was responsible for its overall management and programming.
In June 2000, Christian was appointed Director of Festivals at the American Film Institute (AFI), where he was responsible for several festival and film programming projects, including the annual AFI FEST presented by Audi. Christian developed AFI’s year-round exhibition programs of film series, mini-festivals, retrospectives and exclusive advance screenings – “AFI at ArcLight” and “Cinema’s Legacy: How Great Filmmakers Inspire Great Filmmakers.” In his first few years at AFI, Christian helped to start SILVERDOCS: AFI/Discovery Channel Documentary Festival, now called AFI Docs. In his role at AFI, Christian also spearheaded the launch of the Dallas International Film Festival.
In 2008, Christian joined IMDb.com, an Amazon.com company, where he was Director of Festival Strategy and Business Development overseeing the global expansion of Withoutabox.com, a web community and film submission platform connecting filmmakers to film festivals worldwide.
In April 2013 Christian joined ArtPrize as Executive Director. ArtPrize is a radically open, independently organized international art competition, annually attracting over 400,000 attendees and around 1,500 artists to Grand Rapids, Michigan over 19 days. $500,000 is awarded to artists through prizes that are determined equally by both public vote and expert jury. ArtPrize encourages critical discourse, celebrates artists, transforms urban space and promotes cultural understanding.
Christian has served on numerous film festival juries including Sundance, SXSW, Denver, Dallas, Montreal and Warsaw; has participated on numerous panels worldwide about film, film festivals, art and technology; has independently consulted for several film festivals and film projects; has attended many, many film festivals around the world; serves on the IFP Program Advisory Board, the Film Collaborative Advisory Board and has filed periodically for the online independent film daily Indiewire.com. He is a council member on the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs.
Christian is a movie and music fanatic, has run seven marathons (and counting) and was the bass player in an LA-area rock band. He has a regular music show on community radio WYCE-FM. Christian is married to Dr. Kristen Taylor, a cognitive psychologist, writer and development specialist. They have two spectacular children Lola (21) and Luke (18) and they recently traded Los Angeles for Grand Rapids in West Michigan to play a part in its growing reputation as a hotbed for art, design, culture, innovation and urbanism.

7.6.17 - President's "Passing the Tiller"
2017-07-06 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States

6.22.17 - Jon Hankins and Mario Benevides
2017-06-22 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Jon Hankins, Community Relations Officer, Aquinas College

Mario Benavides Llanos, Director of Operations, Nicaragua
Mario is native of Nicaragua and a chemical engineer with extensive experience in a broad array of endeavors in the business, engineering and agricultural sectors. He has been with Aqua Clara since 2009 and is now Director of AcquaNic, our in-country organization in Nicaragua.

6.15.17 - Thomas R. Dilley
2017-06-15 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Thomas R. Dilley is a retired attorney and frequent lecturer on cemetery history in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He is the author of several books of local history, and he is a member of the Grand Rapids Historical Commission, trustee of the Grand Rapids Historical Society, past chair of the Grand Rapids Public Library Foundation, and trustee of the Grand Rapids Public Museum Foundation.
Thomas is a lifelong resident of Grand Rapids, where he lives with his wife, Debra, daughter, Sarah, and basset hound, Ruthie. His 40-year interest in the history of his hometown is reflected in his avid collection of the postcards in Grand Rapids: Community and Industry, as well as a large assortment of other materials documenting the history of the city.

6.08.17 - Know Me Better
2017-06-08 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Today’s meeting is going to focus on our Members!
A fun interactive program designed to help you get to know your fellow Club members.

Rotary After Hours
2017-06-01 17:00 - 19:00 | Miller Johnson Attorneys, 45 Ottawa Ave SW - 11th Floor, Grand Rapids, 49503, United States

6.01.17 - Vicki Seidl
2017-06-01 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Chief Prosecutor
Juvenile Division, Kent County Prosecutor’s Office (2003-Present)
• Supervise five attorneys, law clerks and support staff
• Liaison between Family Court Judges and Prosecutor’s Office
• Liaison between Department of Human Services and their contract Agencies
• Handle diverse caseload and regularly appear in court on juvenile matters
• Teach courses and guest lecturer for law enforcement, case workers,
and other court personnel. Also a guest lecturer for Nurse Examiner Program at YWCA.
Assistant Prosecutor
Juvenile and Appeals Divisions, Kent County Prosecutor’s Office (1996-2003)
• Litigated delinquency and protective proceedings
• Handled appellate issues, wrote briefs and argued motions in Circuit Courts,
Court of Appeals and State Supreme Court
Michigan Court of Appeals Staff Attorney
Pre-Hearing Division, Michigan Court of Appeals (1993-1996)
• Researched and wrote briefs on criminal/and civil issues for appellate judges
Illinois Appellate Court Staff Attorney
Illinois Appellate Court 3rd Judicial District (1989-1993)
• Researched issues raised by parties and wrote proposed opinions for the Court
Illinois Appellate Prosecutor’s Staff Attorney
State of Illinois Appellate Prosecutor Division (1988-1989)
• Wrote appellate briefs and argued cases on behalf of twenty-three
Illinois county prosecutor’s offices
EDUCATION
Southern Illinois Law School, Juris Doctorate, Cum Laude (1988)
Central Michigan University, Bachelor of Science (1982)

Volunteer Opportunity
2017-05-19 09:00 - 14:00
We have a wonderful and fulfilling opportunity to continue supporting our partnership with Disability Advocates of Kent County. On Friday, May 19th, from 9am until done (Possibly two shifts and lunch will be provided) at 2640 Woodward SW, Grand Rapids, we will build a wheelchair ramp for a 5 year old boy with Cerebal Palsy, allowing him increased and unfettered access to his home.
These projects are some of the best and most impactful things our club does, so please come join us.
The Community Engagement Committee is looking for 4 to 6 volunteers to join the build under the supervision of a licensed and experienced contractor. No construction expertise is necessary. While not mandatory, if the volunteers have drills they are encouraged to bring them.
Please contact me at rjeliassen@gmail.com or 616-406-7398 at your earliest convenience if you can participate. Thank you for considering this great project.

5.18.17 - Elissa Hillary
2017-05-18 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Elissa Hillary is committed to working at the leading edge of values-based capitalism, building sustainable local economies that put people first. As the President of Local First since 2007, she has brought together nearly a thousand businesses in West Michigan to collaborate in building a vibrant community that encourages sustainable business development. As a consultant, speaker, and thought leader, she has stressed the significance of building social capital through the mutual investment of the local business, consumer, government, and philanthropic sectors. Under these initiatives, West Michigan’s economy and brand has thrived, with nationally-recognized growth and the birth of new industries.
Elissa was named Grand Rapids Young Non-Profit Professionals Exemplary Executive in 2010, a BCorp Measure What Matters Champion in 2014, and has three times been named one of Grand Rapids Business Journal’s “Top 40 Under 40” business leader. She is a 2011 Business Alliance for Local Living Economies (BALLE) Fellow and BCorp Ambassador.

5.11.17 - STRIVE Luncheon - Keynote Speaker John Salan
2017-05-11 12:00 - 13:15
We take this time to honor the Junior and Senior students from Ottawa Hills and Union High Schools that have participated in our STRIVE Student Mentoring/Scholarship Program.
STRIVE is a motivational program targeting high school junior and senior students who want to improve their educational status and their life prospects.
The mission of the STRIVE Program is to mentor high school students to achieve academic success, graduate from high school and continue their education in college, university, trade, technical or career school
In pursuit of this mission, the STRIVE program provides positive role models for students to promote self discovery, the importance of High School Graduation, development of good values, development of life skills, and individual responsibility in STRIVING for excellence in life.
We will also hear a short presentation from our own John Salan as he tells some of the history of STRIVE.
John F. Salan, District 6290 Governor (service year: 2009—2010)
A second generation Rotarian and a Paul Harris Fellow, John’s involvement in Rotary dates to 1958 when he was a Junior Rotarian with the Plymouth Rotary Club. He joined the Petoskey Rotary Club in 1975 and served as its president in 1986-87. While an active member in Petoskey, working every fundraiser from the annual summer bratwurst sales through too many spaghetti dinners to count, John became involved in the District 6290 and Central States Rotary Youth Exchange program. His eldest daughter spent a year abroad as a Rotary Youth Exchange Student in Finland and his second daughter then spent a year in New Zealand through the program. His dedication to Youth Exchange continues to this day through his service on District 6290’s Youth Exchange Committee as Vice-Chair and Youth Protection Officer.
John continued to focus on Rotary’s commitment to mentoring youth as a member of the Grand Rapids Rotary Club since 1990 and served as that club’s president in 1995-96. He was among the early advocates for the STRIVE program for at-risk secondary students and was the chairman of the District 6290 STRIVE committee for two years. He also advocated for expanding involvement of the younger generation in philanthropic activities through the INTERACT program. Other recent community activities included serving on the Salvation Army Advisory Board, coaching a Special Olympics softball team, and coaching an eighth grade basketball team.
Married to his college sweetheart, Helen, John is the father of three adult daughters and has one granddaughter. Helen is the executive director of Healing the Children-Michigan/Ohio, a charity dedicated to coordinating medical care for children in need around the world. Together, John and Helen are active in their parish community in Grand Rapids.
John graduated from Eastern Michigan University where he played varsity baseball after graduating from Plymouth High School as a three-year, three-sport varsity letterman. He earned his law degree from Wayne State University. Early in his career as a public prosecutor, John served as the chief trial attorney for the Washtenaw County Prosecutor’s office in Ann Arbor. From 1974-1989, he was the Emmet County Prosecuting Attorney, a position to which he was re-elected by an overwhelming majority three times. During this time, he was a tireless advocate on behalf of children and an in-demand speaker on topical issues. While a prosecuting attorney, John served for over twenty years on the board of directors of the Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan including a term as that organization’s president. In 1989, he became a federal prosecutor with the United States Department of Justice assigned to the Western District of Michigan in Grand Rapids. He retired from this position in 2013 and now devotes his time to volunteer activities.

5.04.17 - Peter D'Arienzo
2017-05-04 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
D’Arienzo comes from the Kansas City Zoo where he was the Director of Operations.
Before the Kansas City Zoo, D’Arienzo served as the Plant Human Resources and EHS Manager at Donaldson Company International. He also spent 20 years at the American Multi-Cinema where he became corporate director.

5.04.17- Rotary After Hours
2017-05-04 08:00 - 17:00 | Deksia, 49 Coldbrook St SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503
The May 4th Rotary After Hours event is being hosted by Rotarian, Joshua Conran and his company Deksia. The address is 120 Stevens St. SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
This event is open to all Rotary Club of Grand Rapids members. We encourage you to invite your spouse, significant other, co-workers and prospective members.
This is a great time to learn more about Deksia, Joshua and your fellow Rotarians.
Beer and Wine will be provided, along with light Appetizers.

4.27.17 - Al Bonney
2017-04-27 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Rotary: Al is the District Rotary Foundation Committee Chair for District 6290. He joined Rotary in 1996 and was club President of the Traverse City (Ml) Rotary club in 2008 – 2009. His brother, Father and Grandfather were all active Rotarians.
Professional: Al worked in over 13 different Marriott hotels during his career from 1970 and 1995. He and his family lived in Dhahran and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Cairo, Egypt and Athens, Greece where the children did most of their secondary schooling.
Hobbies and other Activities: Al and Joan live in Traverse City, Michigan where Joan is an active painter. Al, when not busy doing Rotary things, plays the banjo, directs the Rotary Chorus for the Traverse City Annual Rotary Show, and builds wooden boats.

4.20.17 Interact Luncheon featuring Rev. Dr. Phil Johnson
2017-04-20 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Dr. Phil Johnson starts fires. Starting fires is his mission in life, the focus of his faith, energy and optimism. His mission is Igniting Your Passion to Do the Impossible™. He inspires people to champion their dreams – setting their hearts on fire and unleashing their passion for life, love and work. He offers Speeches inspiring committed action, Coaching enabling authentic leadership, and Consulting guiding critical decisions. A head, heart and soul coach, he enables people from business, education, associations and government to use their gifts to achieve their common purpose. Dr. Phil is a Master’s gold-medal hurdler.
His educational background is as varied as his curiosity about life itself. He holds degrees in psychology, theology and leadership, serves as an adjunct faculty member at Davenport University, and is a mediator/arbitrator. An ordained minister, Rev. Johnson is the Pastor at New Day Church-on-the-Hill. He has a special place in his heart for Africa where he coordinates Kibera Kids Kitchen, a feeding program he established for children in Kibera Slum in Nairobi, Kenya.
Dr. Phil has wide radio and television experience, and is the author of eight books including The Compassionate Conspiracy: A Field Guide to Changing the World. His next book, Lead Like a Heretic: How to Challenge the Status Quo – and Thrive, will be released later this year.

News Flash – Promontory Press released Dr. Phil Johnson’s new book, The Compassionate Conspiracy: A Field Guide to Changing the World. Purchase your copies today at…
http://www.amazon.com/Compassionate-Conspiracy-Field-Guide-Changing/dp/1987857356/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1452200172&sr=8-1&keywords=The+Compassionate+Conspiracy

4.13.17 - Fred Keller
2017-04-13 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Fred Keller founded Cascade Engineering in 1973 with the belief business can complement financial performance with important work in the social and environmental arenas. Driven by Fred’s belief, a small team of six employees has grown to be a company of 1,600 people serving a worldwide customer base.
From the very beginning, Fred Keller emphasized the key role business can play in building financial, social and ecological capital, often through partnerships with government and community agencies. His innovative management approach and work in advancing sustainability are featured regularly in business and industry publications.
With a passion for making a positive impact, Fred has served on the boards of the Meijer Corporation and Fifth Third Bank, West Michigan. He was formerly the board chair of the U.S. Department of Commerce Manufacturing Council and is a past chair and current member of the Board of Trustees for the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. Fred is also a trustee for the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation. In addition, Fred has been part of many community organizations and change initiatives including Talent 2025 and K-Connect.
A Grand Rapids, Michigan native, Fred earned a B.S. in materials science and engineering from Cornell University and an M.S. in business management from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

4.06.17 - SPRING BREAK - NO LUNCHEON
2017-04-06 12:00 - 13:15

3.30.17 - Rochelle Sather
2017-03-30 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States

3.23.17 - Mike Wall
2017-03-23 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
He brings over 18 years of financial analysis, forecasting, consulting and manufacturing experience to IHS Automotive, with a primary focus on assisting automakers, suppliers and financial firms in their evaluation and understanding of the auto industry, as well as in-depth analysis of vehicle markets and trends. Mike is quoted frequently in the media on a variety of automotive topics and has delivered presentations on the outlook for the automotive industry to company executives and other interested groups, including the United Nations Industrial Development Organization in Vienna, Austria. Mike graduated Summa Cum Laude with an undergraduate degree in Finance and later earned the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designation.

3.22.17 - Service Above Self Award Dinner
2017-03-22 18:00 - 20:30 | The Cultural Center at St. Nicholas, 2250 E. Paris Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49546, United States
This years Service Above Self Award Dinner will be taking place on Wednesday, March 22, 2017 and will feature the presentation of the Frederik Meijer Service Above Self Award.
This award is given in recognition of Frederik Meijer, whose humanitarian acts of selfless service made an enduring difference in the lives of others. The dinner will be held at the St. Nicholas Cultural Center, 2250 E Paris Ave SE, Grand Rapids Mi 49546. Doors will open at 6:00pm.
The 2017 Frederik Meijer Service Above Self Award Winner is Rick DeVos.
Rick exemplifies the philanthropic legacy of Frederik Meijer through his personal efforts; making a measurable impact on community philanthropy, demonstrating a strong commitment to volunteerism and/or voluntary fundraising, and gives generously of his time, treasure and talents.
More about Rick…..
RICK DEVOS, age 34, is an entrepreneur and investor. In 2009 he created ArtPrize, a simple social experiment designed to see if artists and the public could engage each other in a new way. The scale and energy of the event launched it into debates all over the art world, from urban planning circles to the global press. In 2012 Rick founded Start Garden, a unique venture seed fund that invests in early stage companies and strives to build Michigan’s startup ecosystem. In 2016 Start Garden reorganized to form the Entrepreneur Ecosystem, Start Garden Foundation, and the for-profit fund Wakestream Ventures. Rick is the Founder and CEO of Wakestream Ventures, an early stage fund with investments ranging from $100Kto $1.5M.
Rick graduated from Calvin College in 2004. He lives in Ada, Michigan with his wife Melissa, and their daughters Clara, Sloane, and Remington. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for ArtPrize, the Grand Rapids Art Museum, the Grand Rapids Economic Club and University of Michigan’s Center for Entrepreneurship.
Rick’s accomplishments include; Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Calvin College, 2004, Founder of ArtPrize, 2009, Founder of Start Garden, 2011, Recipient of Honorary Doctorates from Grand Valley State University and Ferris State University
If you would like to attend the Frederik Meijer Service Above Self Award Dinner please click on the following: TICKETS.
To sponsor the Frederick Meijer Service Above Self Award Dinner, please fill out the Sponsorship Form and return it to the Rotary office at 1345 Monroe Ave NW, Suite 204, Grand Rapids, MI 49505 or email it to rotary@grrotary.org.
Should you have any questions about becoming a sponsorship, or obtaining tickets to the dinner please contact the Rotary office at 616-459-5640.
A special Thank You to our sponsors:
Frederik Meijer Award Sponsor

Platinum Sponsor:

Silver Sponsors:

Bronze Sponsors:

3.16.17 - Dick Gauthier
2017-03-16 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Dick Gauthier is a Grand Rapids native and attended Western Michigan University, receiving a degree in political science.
He is in his 32nd year at Universal Forest Products and enjoys serving in his current capacity as VP of international business development. Feeding a desire to confirm, and see firsthand, the connection between political oppression and decrepitude, he visited North Korea in 2010, and Chernobyl and Cuba in 2015.
Currently residing in EGR, he is married to Samantha, and has a daughter, Ava, a sophomore at Hope College.
