Rotary Club Of Grand Rapids

12.26.19 - No Luncheon - Celebrate the Holidays
2019-12-26 12:00 - 13:15 (America/Detroit)

12.19.19 - Holiday Luncheon
2019-12-19 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
A luncheon to just set back, relax and enjoy the holiday music & special entertainment provided by our very own Rotary Club of Grand Rapids Band, featuring Kevin Paul, Tom Bylenga, Ken Estelle and a special guest member Inge Whittemore.

Senior Neighbors Holiday Luncheon
2019-12-17 09:30 - 14:00 | Kuyper College, 3333 East Beltline, Grand Rapids, MI, 49525, United States
We would like to ask you to get involved with this fun and very rewarding event.
For over 30 years, Rotarians have partnered with Senior Neighbors and been serving a holiday lunch to 200 at-risk Seniors from all around West Michigan. They are provided with a plated lunch sponsored by Lake Michigan Credit Union and served by our Rotarians. They are given gift cards donated by Meijer and gift bags and items donated by S. Abraham and Sons, Pilgrim Manor and Alan Abraham.
They are also entered into a drawing for gifts and gift cards donated by our Rotarians. It would be great to have each senior “win” a gift from the drawing (some ideas for these drawing gifts are: gift certificates to places like Meijer and favorite restaurants. Other new items to consider that seniors can use: Hats, scarves, gloves, weighted or heated blankets or throws, small uncomplicated radios.
Bob Barnes, Senior Neighbors Inc. President and also a member of the Rotary Club of Grand Rapids said “We are honored to collaborate with the Rotary Club of Grand Rapids and greatly appreciate all that the Rotarians do each year to serve area at-risk seniors. This is a wonderful gift to older adults that often don’t have the opportunity to celebrate the holidays in this sort of setting.”
We are looking for volunteers for the day of the event, Tuesday, December 17th, from 9:30am to 2:00pm at Kuyper College. You may volunteer for the entire day or for one of the shifts listed below:

9:30am-10:30am – Fill gift bags (provided by Alan Abraham and SAS and Pilgrim Manor)10:30am-11:30am – Sign Holiday cards and insert gift cards10:30am-11:30am – Set-up Dining Hall11:30am-12:30pm – Assist with room set-up, seating Seniors and serving the Seniors lunch
12:30pm-2:00pm – Serving the Seniors, hand out gift bags and clean-up of the dining room

Volunteer for Senior Neighbors Holiday Luncheon
As mentioned above, we are also looking for the donations of gifts for the Gift Giveaway portion of our luncheon. You may bring your gift to our our Rotary luncheons on Nov. 21st, Club 77 on Dec. 5th and our luncheon on Dec. 12th . You may also drop your gift off to the Rotary office at 1345 Monroe Ave, NW, Suite 307.
Thank you in advance for your support of this event.
A special thank to our sponsors and host, without them this event would not take place.

Please contact the Rotary office at 616-459-5640 or rotary@grrotary.org should you have any questions.

12.12.19 - Charlie Wondergem
2019-12-12 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Charlie Wondergem is co-founder and a board member of the Billy Bear Hug Foundation (BBH), an organization formed to honor the life of his older brother, Billy, an aspiring pediatric oncologist who passed away at the age of 24, just prior to entering medical school. Since 2011, BBH has provided the “cure of comfort” to children with life-threatening illnesses in Michigan. Through partnerships with Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, Bronson Children’s Hospital, Hospice of Michigan, Metro Health Hospital, Mary Free Bed, Children’s Healing Center, Ronald McDonald House and a host of other organizations, BBH provides teddy bears, care packages, and other quality of life support to children with critical illnesses. In addition, through its unique Youth Advisory Board service-learning program, 40 high school students each year gain hands-on experience running a non-profit organization while gaining exposure to area business leaders, philanthropists and medical professionals.
Outside of BBH, Charlie is Manager of Corporate Development for Perrigo (NYSE:PRGO), where he has responsibility for mergers & acquisitions and other strategic growth initiatives for the global provider of consumer self-care products, and is Co-Founder and Partner of Renucell Group, which produces and markets the unique natural extract Plantolin® for use by CPG companies globally as a natural solution in their skincare ranges, in addition to marketing the Luv Ur Skin® brand of natural skincare products. Charlie began his career at Harris Williams & Co., a middle-market investment bank in Virginia, where he worked on sell-side M&A transactions for a variety of private equity and corporate clients. Additionally, he currently co-chairs the Leadership Advisory Council for Make-A-Wish® Michigan. He previously served on the State Farm Advisory Board, which directed $5 million annually to K-12 service-learning programs across the U.S. and Canada. Charlie graduated with honors from the University of Denver in 2013 with a degree in Finance.

Charlie Wondergem and the Billy Bear Hug Foundation have generously offered us the opportunity to purchase and donate a “Billy Bear” to a sick child during this holiday season and for every “Bear” that you donate, they will provide you with your own “Billy Bear”.
To learn more about the Billy Bear Hug Foundation, please visit their website: http://www.billybearhug.org/
To understand what the Billy Bear Hug Foundation is all about, please watch the video!

12.5.19 - Club 77 @ LaFleur Marketing
2019-12-05 16:00 - 17:30 | LaFleur Marketing, 549 Ottawa Ave NW, Suite 201, Grand Rapids, 49505, United States
A time for networking and socializing, while getting to know more about Rotary and our Rotary Club of Grand Rapids Member.
Please feel free to invite your significant other, friends, co-workers and prospective members for a fun evening enjoying food, beverages and friendship.
Please RSVP by Friday, Nov. 29th

11.28.20 - No Luncheon - Thanksgiving Day
2019-11-28 12:00 - 13:15
Wishing you and yours a bountiful celebration!

11.21.19 - Phil Biggs
2019-11-21 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Phil is the Client Relationship Executive for Private Company Services leading business development for the entire Michigan market – based in PwC’s Detroit office.
Phil serves as a member of PwC’s US Automotive team and has nearly 25 years of experience in the auto sector. His industry experience ranges from consulting assignments with firms such as EY and the Highland Group, to working directly as a senior executive in the auto industry for two small technology companies.
Prior to joining PwC, Phil was Chief Business Development Officer for a Nashville-based tech start-up NeXovation, where he brought flatwire applications to Ford Motor and other OEMs.
Locally, from late 2010 to 2013, Phil served as an integral member of Fulton Innovation, Amway’s technology division. Phil helped to bring intelligent wireless power to worldwide commercial markets, and formed OEM tech partnerships with Toyota and FCA-Chrysler to support 100% growth of Amway-Fulton’s Qi technology.
Phil has an MBA in Finance from Central Michigan University and a Bachelor’s Degree from Grand Valley State University.

11.14.19 - John Baxter, Paul Ryan and Samantha Rose
2019-11-14 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
John Baxter – Western Michigan Area Chair, Employer Support of the Guard and Reserves (ESGR)
John joined the US Navy, and served from 1966-1969.
Served with the Military Headquarters of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization from 1966-1968. Volunteered for Vietnam in 1968 and was assigned to MACV HQ(Saigon): The Military Assistance Command Vietnam (Saigon) with various Advanced Tactical Support Bases in the Mekong Delta – in support of 2 River Patrol Boat Divisions, a Detachment of Sealwolf Heliocopters, and a SEAL Detachment
Upon his return from Vietnam, he served with the Navy’s Atlantic Nuclear Submarine Fleet Support Team.
Upon release from Active Duty, John earned his BS in Marketing from Michigan State University, and his Masters in Management from the Kellogg School, Northwestern University. He is currently CEO and President of Compass Associates, Inc. a strategic Marketing and Competitive Intelligence consulting firm with Associates worldwide.
Service Awards:

National Defense Medal Vietnam Service Medal Vietnam Campaign Medal
Navy & Marine Corps Combat Medal (pending)
Letter of Commendation – Commander of the USS Ray, SSN 653 (Nuclear Attack Submarine)

Volunteer Activities:
John was a charter member of the Wheaton AM (IL) Rotary Club, Rotarian of the Year In 1989, and is a Paul Harris Fellow. John was also a member of the Grand Rapids Downtown Rotary Club. He also served as a City of East Grand Rapids City
City Commissioner, and is currently on the Kent County Veterans Services Board Member – 2018 – present, Employer Support of the Guard and Reserves – 2019 – present, and a Life Member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, among other activities.
Paul J. Ryan – State Chair-Emeritus,State of Michigan ESGR
Served for 25 years with the US Navy, attaining the rank of Captain. During his Active and Reserve Service, Paul was deployed in the Western Pacific. His military decorations include the Meritorious Medal, the Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal (twice), and various service awards.
Paul was also involved with the Old Kent Bank (now Fifth Third Bank), and retired as Vice President after a 37 year career.
Paul volunteered with the ESGR for 18 years, and is the Emeritus Chairman of the State of Michigan ESGR. He is active with a wide variety of volunteer organizations supporting military families and veterans, including the United Veterans Council of Kent County, the West Michigan Veterans Coalition, and the Michigan Military & Veterans Hall of Honor.
Samantha Rose – Probation Officer and Social Worker/Counselor, Kent County Veterans Treatment Court
Samantha Rose graduated from Grand Valley State University (Michigan) in 2018 with her Masters in Social Work, and is now pursuing a second Masters degree at GVSU in Criminal Justice.
During her time at GVSU, she served as VP, then President, of GVSU’s SVA Chapter. Samantha attended the SVA Leadership Academy in both 2016 and 2017.
She is heavily involved in her local veteran community, serving in organizations such as American Legion and Auxiliary, United Veterans Council of Kent County, and West Michigan Veterans Coalition/VCAT 4.
Samantha has worked on many projects, including a video on Student Veteran Success for the Consortium of Michigan Veteran Educators. She was the Chairwoman for the First Annual Student Veterans of Michigan Conference.
She has been asked to speak at many different events, such as the Multistate Collaborative on Military Credit AnnualConference, and NatCon 2019.
Samantha works for the Kent County Veterans Treatment Court (Michigan), providing services as both a Probation Officer and a Social Worker/Counselor. Her plan is to eventually move into the Program Director position.
Samantha has a 9 year old daughter, and they love to hike and kayak

11.7.19 - Club 77 - Choice One Bank - RSVP by Oct 31st
2019-11-07 17:00 - 18:30 | Choice One Bank, 330 Market St SW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
A time for networking and socializing, while getting to know more about Rotary and our Rotary Club of Grand Rapids Member. This event will be in collaboration with the Grand Rapids Young Professionals.
Please feel free to invite your significant other, friends, co-workers and prospective members for a fun evening enjoying food, beverages and friendship!

10.31.19 - Eric Payne and Scott Rifenberg
2019-10-31 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Eric Payne began his tenure as Police Chief on July 22, 2019. With more than 30 years of experience with the Grand Rapids Police Department, Chief Payne remains focused on the priority areas of safety, community policing, transparency, staffing and training.
Chief Payne grew up in Dowagiac, Michigan. He attended Grand Valley State University (GVSU), earning a bachelor of science degree in criminal justice. He worked as a police officer for GVSU until he joined the Grand Rapids Police Department in September 1987. He is a graduate of the department’s Leadership Institute and has received advanced leadership training from the Law Enforcement Executive Leadership Institute and the Leadership Institute for Police Executives and New Chiefs.
Throughout his tenure with the department, Chief Payne has served on Patrol, in the Vice Unit and as a member of the Detective Unit’s Major Case Team. He has served as a Patrol Watch Commander and as the Administrative Lieutenant for the South Service Area. As a Captain, Chief Payne was Commander of the South Service Area and then the Investigative Division, which includes the Detective, Vice and Forensic Services units. In September 2017, Chief Payne was promoted to Deputy Police Chief of Operations, overseeing the Patrol Division, Special Response Team, Traffic Unit and Office of Special Events. Chief Payne has been a member of the department’s Crisis Negotiation Team since 1992. He served as its commander from 2010 to 2018.
Chief Payne and his wife, Jessica (a former Sergeant with the department), have two children.
Scott Rifenberg was born in Holland and raised in Grand Rapids. He graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice.
Deputy Chief Rifenberg began his career with the GRPD in 1996, serving on patrol in the West and South Service Areas, as well as spending six years with the Special Response Team (SRT). In September 2003, he was assigned to an acting Sergeant role and served the Southwest Service Area. After his promotion to Sergeant in August 2004 he held assignments in the South and East Service Areas, as well as the Vice Unit and SRT. In January 2014 he was assigned as a Watch Commander in an acting Lieutenant role. He was officially promoted to Lieutenant in November 2014 and assigned to command the SRT. Upon being promoted to Captain in July 2016, he commanded the newly formed Central Service Area.
His additional duties throughout his career have included Field Training Officer (FTO), Firearms Instructor and Use of Force Instructor. He is a graduate of the department’s Leadership Institute and was nominated for Officer of the Year in 2000 and 2007. Throughout his career Deputy Chief Rifenberg has been awarded a Commendation Award, four Team Performance Awards, an Achievement Award, three Meritorious Unit Citations, a Chief’s Citation, and several Letters of Recognition. Deputy Chief Rifenberg and his wife, Shannon, have three daughters.

10.24.19 - Michelle Van Dyke
2019-10-24 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Michelle Van Dyke serves as President & CEO of Heart of West Michigan United Way and has held this position since January 2016.
Previously, Michelle was the president of Fifth Third Mortgage Company. Michelle joined Fifth Third Bank in 2001 through the acquisition of Old Kent Bank, and assumed the position of executive vice president of Retail Banking. In 2004, she was named president and CEO of the Western Michigan affiliate. She later was named regional president for each of Fifth Third Bank’s Michigan affiliates. In 2009, Van Dyke assumed the responsibility for the St. Louis affiliates and the Ohio affiliates in 2011.
In 2014, she accepted the role of president of Fifth Third Mortgage Company.
While at Old Kent, Van Dyke served as senior vice president and manager of the Central U.S. Mortgage region. She was named president of Old Kent Bank, Illinois, in 2000.
Van Dyke received her bachelor’s degree in business economics from Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Van Dyke serves on the boards of Davenport University, Spectrum Health System, and Fifth Third Bank, Western Michigan.
Van Dyke was named one of American Banker’s “25 Most Powerful Women in Banking” in 2007, 2012, 2013, and 2014, and a “Woman to Watch” in 2005, 2010, 2011, and 2015. In 2013, Van Dyke was named a “Woman of Achievement and Courage” by the Michigan Women’s Foundation. In 2014, and 2018 Van Dyke was named one of “The 50 Most Influential Women in West Michigan” by the Grand Rapids Business Journal.

10.17.19 - Michelle LaJoye-Young
2019-10-17 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Michelle has worked for the Kent County Sheriff’s Office since 1989 in various roles within the Corrections, Patrol, Communications, and Support Services Divisions; she served as Chief Deputy, Undersheriff, and appointed in 2018 as Sheriff. She has worked diligently to implement processes which make the Office of the Sheriff more efficient, transparent and accountable to the community. Some of her key projects include a jail expansion, Jail Management and data collection software, criminal history improvement, law enforcement mobile computing initiatives, dispatch consolidation and record management upgrades. The Sheriff’s Office has most recently released a mobile app as a resource to our community partners. In 2018, she was recognized by the Governor for her contributions to statewide communications.
Michelle served in the Michigan Army National Guard and Army Reserves from 1985 through 1998 where she left as a Captain. She obtained her Bachelors in Criminal Justice from Michigan State University, a Masters in Public Administration from Western Michigan University, MCOLES certification from Grand Rapids Community College, and graduated from Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command. In 2016, Michelle was inducted into the Michigan State University School of Justice Wall of fame. In November 2018, Michelle was appointed as the first female Sheriff in Kent County history and the only existing female Sheriff in the State of Michigan.
Michelle is proud to represent Kent County and the Sheriff’s Office in various boards and organizations and works hard to ensure Kent County community values are represented on a local, state and federal level. Some of her key memberships are:

Children’s Advocacy Center, Board Member
Grand Rapids Boys and Girls Club, Board Member
Michigan Criminal Justice Information Advisory Board, Member
Michigan Criminal Justice Advisory Board, Governor Appointment
Michigan Interoperability Board, Governor Appointment
FBI Mobile Data Security Taskforce, Member
FBI Information Services Committee, Member
FBI Beyond 2020, Criminal Records Improvement, Committee Member
Grand Rapids Community College Corrections Advisory Board Member
Grand Rapids Community College Law Enforcement Advisory Board Member
Grand Valley University Police Academy Advisory Board Member

10.10.19 - Dr. Hyung T. Kim
2019-10-10 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Dr. Kim earned his medical degree from The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and completed both his internal medicine residency and an MBA at the University of Michigan. He was also a leader of the healthcare practice at renowned consultancy McKinsey & Co. and an executive at Ascension Health before returning to academic healthcare – most recently as senior associate dean for clinical affairs at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine.
Dr. Kim brings extensive, versatile experience as a physician executive with proven leadership in operations, quality, strategy, technology and innovation. In addition to his tenure at MSU, Dr. Kim also served as CEO of SIU HealthCare, where he had oversight of patient care at SIU School of Medicine, including leadership of a faculty group practice of more than 250 physicians and other providers practicing in 60 locations. As a vice president at Ascension Health in St. Louis, Missouri, he led strategy and development for an internal innovation center.
His experience as a chief executive brings an extensive set of skills to lead Saint Mary’s. His proven leadership in building alignment and leading change in complex environments poises him to lead the organization through the intricacies of health care delivery in our community.
This summer, his wife, Joyce and their three children, moved to East Grand Rapids. Their oldest daughter began attending Michigan State University this fall; their second daughter is a junior and their son a freshman in high school.

10.3.19 - Club 77 @ One Bourbon and Bridge Street Market
2019-10-03 16:00 - 17:30 | One Bourbon, 608 Bridge St NW, Grand Rapids, 49504, United States
We will be starting at One Bourbon and then going to Bridge Street Market for a tour hosted by our own Ken Bair, Store Manager.
A time for networking and socializing, while getting to know more about Rotary and our Rotary Club of Grand Rapids Member.
Please feel free to invite your significant other, friends, co-workers and prospective members for a fun evening enjoying food, beverages and friendship.

9.26.19 - Michael Van Denend
2019-09-26 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Michael has always been interested in world events and issues—and is a strong advocate of non-partisan grace-filled discourse.
He’s fond of Richard Mouw’s description of “convicted civility”—which is “combining a civil outlook with a passionate intensity about our convictions.”
Along with wife Loni, he’s been on a number of global adventures—and they’ve served numerous times in Haiti, before and after the devastating 2011 earthquake.
Michael came to the World Affairs Council after 33 years as the executive director of the Calvin College Alumni Association, where he interviewed and wrote stories about alumni all over the globe.
In addition, he’s an on-air radio programmer at WYCE 88.1 FM (Saturdays from 8-10 a.m.) where he presents folk, blues, jazz, rock and a lot of WORLD music.

9.19.19 - Kenny Wawsczyk
2019-09-19 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Kenny Wawsczyk joined the North Country Trail Association (NCTA) as the Regional Trail Coordinator for Michigan in August 2015. Seven years prior he worked seasonally for the U.S Forest Service in the Manistee National Forest as the Trails Crew Leader.
Born and raised in White Cloud he still lives close by with his wife Maureen and three year old son, Patrick. In his spare time you can find him outdoors either fishing, hunting or hiking.

9.12.19 - Dr. Bernice Patterson
2019-09-12 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Dr. Bernice Patterson is passionate about seeing the worlds of psychology and spirituality come together to speak to the real and relevant needs of the people and organizations that she serves. Through her role as Founder and CEO of Infinity Consultation Group (ICG), Dr. Patterson has been able to craft and deliver thought provoking and life changing interactive workshops and seminars. She is a highly sought-after speaker inside and outside of the church, where she is able to motivate her listeners to take a hard and honest look at themselves and ask the questions, “Who do I want to be in this world and am I doing the work to be that person? If not, what is holding me back?” Through her platform she has been able to lead people into a deeper understanding of self, their mental and emotional health, and how to better co-exist within the worlds that they live and work in daily.
Dr. Patterson has been working in the field of psychology for the past 12 years. She has developed, managed, and currently facilitates monthly cultural diversity trainings for an APA accredited pre-doctoral internship. Dr. Patterson currently serves as the Cultural Diversity Liaison for the largest free-standing psychiatric hospital in the nation, and implemented a five-part training series entitled Cultural Diversity and Its Impact on Behavioral Health Professionals and the Communities That They Serve for their outpatient clinic network and their Chaplin Training Program.

9.5.19 - Club 77 @ Mathison | Mathison Architects
2019-09-05 16:00 - 17:30

8.29.19 - Labor Day Celebration - No Luncheon
2019-08-29 12:00 - 13:30
From the US Department of Labor

History of Labor Day

Labor Day 2019
On September 2, 2019, the U.S. Department of Labor celebrates and honors the greatest worker in the world – the American worker. Labor Day 2019 is the 125th anniversary of Labor Day being celebrated as a national holiday.
Labor Day: What it Means
Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.
Labor Day Legislation
The first governmental recognition came through municipal ordinances passed in 1885 and 1886. From these, a movement developed to secure state legislation. The first state bill was introduced into the New York legislature, but the first to become law was passed by Oregon on February 21, 1887. During 1887, four more states – Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York – created the Labor Day holiday by legislative enactment. By the end of the decade Connecticut, Nebraska, and Pennsylvania had followed suit. By 1894, 23 more states had adopted the holiday, and on June 28, 1894, Congress passed an act making the first Monday in September of each year a legal holiday in the District of Columbia and the territories.
Founder of Labor Day
More than a century after the first Labor Day observance, there is still some doubt as to who first proposed the holiday for workers.
Some records show that Peter J. McGuire, general secretary of the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners and a co-founder of the American Federation of Labor, was first in suggesting a day to honor those “who from rude nature have delved and carved all the grandeur we behold.”
But Peter McGuire’s place in Labor Day history has not gone unchallenged. Many believe that Matthew Maguire, a machinist, not Peter McGuire, founded the holiday. Recent research seems to support the contention that Matthew Maguire, later the secretary of Local 344 of the International Association of Machinists in Paterson, N.J., proposed the holiday in 1882 while serving as secretary of the Central Labor Union in New York. What is clear is that the Central Labor Union adopted a Labor Day proposal and appointed a committee to plan a demonstration and picnic.
The First Labor Day
The first Labor Day holiday was celebrated on Tuesday, September 5, 1882, in New York City, in accordance with the plans of the Central Labor Union. The Central Labor Union held its second Labor Day holiday just a year later, on September 5, 1883.
By 1894, 23 more states had adopted the holiday, and on June 28, 1894, President Grover Cleveland signed a law making the first Monday in September of each year a national holiday.
A Nationwide Holiday
The form that the observance and celebration of Labor Day should take was outlined in the first proposal of the holiday — a street parade to exhibit to the public “the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations” of the community, followed by a festival for the recreation and amusement of the workers and their families. This became the pattern for the celebrations of Labor Day. Speeches by prominent men and women were introduced later, as more emphasis was placed upon the economic and civic significance of the holiday. Still later, by a resolution of the American Federation of Labor convention of 1909, the Sunday preceding Labor Day was adopted as Labor Sunday and dedicated to the spiritual and educational aspects of the labor movement.
The character of the Labor Day celebration has changed in recent years, especially in large industrial centers where mass displays and huge parades have proved a problem. This change, however, is more a shift in emphasis and medium of expression. Labor Day addresses by leading union officials, industrialists, educators, clerics, and government officials are given wide coverage in newspapers, radio, and television.
The vital force of labor added materially to the highest standard of living and the greatest production the world has ever known and has brought us closer to the realization of our traditional ideals of economic and political democracy. It is appropriate, therefore, that the nation pays tribute on Labor Day to the creator of so much of the nation’s strength, freedom, and leadership – the American worker.

8.22.19 - Dave Thomas
2019-08-22 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
David F. Thomas
D6290 Governor 2019-20
Brief Biography
FAMILY:
Born in Glen Rogers, West Virginia in 1948; Dave’s family moved to Glen Burnie, Maryland in 1952 where he grew up, met, and married Carol, his high school sweet heart in 1968. In 1971 they were blessed with the birth of a son, Michael; and in 1975 a daughter Jennifer. Jennifer works for Amazon in Seattle. Michael works for Bay Mills Resort & Casino in Brimley. Mike’s wife, Daniela, and three children Emily, Colin and Olivia are spoiled on a regular basis by the rest of the family
Employment:

USMC attaining rank of, Sargent
Johns Hopkins Hospital, Administrator
University of Vermont, Director
University of Missouri, Executive Director
National Consultant HUP, Case Western, Fresno, Athens Georgia
Burns Clinic, Executive Director
Midwest Physicians, CEO
Orland Park Surgical Center, President
Michigan Heart, CEO

Recognition and Honors:
Dave is a member of the Petoskey Methodist Church. He is the current Commandant of Detachment 690 Marine Corps League and a 3rd Degree Master Mason. He has served as Club President, TOM AG, National President of the Academic Practice Assembly, and President of Illinois MGMA. He has also served on the Boards of the PHSCF, Michigan Chamber of Commerce, Traverse Symphony Orchestra, United Way, Salvation Army, and St. James Hospital. Dave was recently recognized as Alumni of the year by his Alma Mater Glen Burnie High School.
Education: BA Carson Newman, M.A.S. Johns Hopkins University, C.M.P.E. MGMA

8.15.19 - Susan Jazwiec
2019-08-15 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Skills
• Passionate about Consumer Education and Internet safety
• Strong leadership capabilities
• Experience in coaching and mentoring
• Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, team environment
• Has a strong drive for results
• Strong engagement and communication skills
• Resourceful
• Is a trusted advisor to colleagues
• Focused and driven
• Radio Broadcasting
Education
• Master in Education Administration Grand Valley State University
• Bachelors of Arts
Major: Group Social Studies Minor: Elementary Education
Work Experience
• Michigan Attorney General’s Office for Outreach (2016-present) Independent Contractor-Speaker for
Consumer Education and OK2SAY/CSI
• Grand Rapids Community College 2011-present
Adjunct Professor Math and Computer Application Departments
• Grand Rapids Public Schools 1985-2016 Computer Applications/Multi media Student and Adult
Technology Education
Volunteer/Extra Curricular Activities
• West Michigan Literacy Center -English tutor (2016-present)
• MacKenzie Animal Shelter Volunteer (2018-present)
• Justice For Our Neighbors volunteer (2018-present)
• WYCE (88.1FM) Radio Programmer (2004-present)
• Rogue River Blues Series Co Chair (2003-present)
• West Michigan Whitecaps Host family (2001-present)
• Red Cross Volunteer (2007-2011)
• Rockford Celtic Festival Chair (2000-2005)
• The Rockford Area Arts Commission Member
• 2000-2006
Awards/Grants
• Nellie B. Stevens Award GRPS International Travel 2008
• Community Foundation Grants 1985, 1987, 1993, 2003, 2010

8.8.19 - Dr. Norman Beauchamp - RSVP required
2019-08-08 12:00 - 13:15 | Grand Rapids Reseach Center – MSU CHM, 400 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Norman J. Beauchamp Jr, MD, MHS, became dean of the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine in October 2016, and Michigan State University associate provost and assistant vice president for health affairs, February 2018.
Prior to MSU, Dr. Beauchamp was a professor and chairperson of the Department of Radiology at the University of Washington, a position he assumed in 2002. While there, he served as vice chairperson and chairperson of the University of Washington Faculty Senate, was president of the clinical practice of 1,600 physicians employed by the university, and was medical director of the Seattle/King County Clinic, which provided dental, vision and medical care to thousands of low-income and uninsured patients. Dr. Beauchamp also served as professor of neurological surgery and industrial and systems engineering at UW.
Dr. Beauchamp received his Bachelor of Science degree from Michigan State University and was selected as one of MSU’s top 25 of 10,000 undergraduate students. He received his Master of Health Science degree from the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health.
As the second College of Human Medicine graduate to become dean, Dr. Beauchamp spent his last two years of medical school in Grand Rapids and subsequently completed his surgical internship at Blodgett Hospital and Saint Mary’s Hospital.
After completing his residency in radiology, and two fellowships, neuroradiology and interventional neuroradiology, at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Dr. Beauchamp joined the faculty in 1996. While at Johns Hopkins, he served as interim chairman of the department of radiology and vice chairperson for clinical operations.
As a diagnostic neuroradiologist and neurointerventional radiologist, Dr. Beauchamp focused on developing improved ways to prevent, predict, diagnose and treat patients suffering from stroke. He directed the National Institutes of Health-funded Epidemiologic Studies Image Analysis Center at Johns Hopkins and UW, which included nearly 6,000 study participants.
An influential scientist and national leader in the radiology community, Dr. Beauchamp has received numerous awards for his research and has published more than 100 peer-reviewed papers. His research focuses on developing advanced MRI imaging techniques to extend the treatment window for acute ischemic stroke and to identify risk predictors for stroke and dementia.
Dr. Beauchamp is chair of the International Outreach Committee of the American Roentgen Ray Society and on the board of directors of the Society of Chairs of Academic Radiology Departments and is past president of both of those organizations. He was chairperson of the Radiology Research Alliance, the Coalition for Bioimaging Research and the American Radiology Education Committee.
Among his many honors, Dr. Beauchamp was presented the outstanding faculty teaching award in radiology at Johns Hopkins three times. In 2016, he received the University of Washington’s David B. Thorud Leadership Award and, in 2018, he received the Grand Rapids Business Journal Newsmaker of the Year award for health sciences.

8.1.19 - Club 77 @ Varnum
2019-08-01 16:00 - 17:30
Please plan on joining us and RSVP by Thursday, July 25th to rotary@grrotary.org!
Driving directions and parking info is below.

7.25.19 - Dr. Philomena Mantella
2019-07-25 12:00 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Philomena V. Mantella is one of higher education’s leading entrepreneurs. She is a recognized leader in strategic thinking, market dynamics, and innovation in the way education is delivered. Her innovative drive comes from more than 30 years in higher education administration. She has done path-breaking work while serving as an officer at public and private universities in New York, New Jersey, Michigan and Massachusetts.
She is the fifth president of Grand Valley State University, beginning her tenure July 1, 2019.
Mantella has a Ph.D. in college and university administration from Michigan State University and master’s and bachelor’s degrees in social work from Syracuse University.
She spent the last 18 years at Northeastern University as senior vice president of Enrollment and Student Life and the chief executive officer of the Lifelong Learning Network.
Mantella is known as a change agent and has had an integral role in expanding global markets and lifelong learning efforts. She is a proven leader in innovation in digital learning and enrollment management.
Her comprehensive understanding of both sides of the educational market – learners and employers – has resulted in success for students and has increased the economic vitality of the markets served.
She is committed to ensuring institutional integrity and building consensus for the mission and the noble cause of education.
Her strong student-centered philosophy, coupled with her operational expertise and strong vision for the future of education, positions her perfectly to lead Grand Valley State University into its seventh decade.
Mantella has been married for 40 years to attorney Robert H. Avery and has three sons and four grandchildren

7.18.19 - Tim Gleisner
2019-07-18 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
I am the Head of Collections at the Library of Michigan. In this role I am in charge of all of the Collections of the State Library, including the Law, Government Documents, Michigan and Rare Book Collections. I am also in head of all programming and much of the outreach of the library. This includes programs such as Michigan Notable Books, an annual list of the top 20 books produced by Michigan authors, or books on Michigan subjects. What is amazing about my current job is I get to travel the state to libraries of all types and sizes. And while out in the field I collect the stories and history of Michigan
Previous to the Library of Michigan I was the Head of Special Collections at the Grand Rapids Public Library, and Head of Local History and Genealogy at the Herrick District Library in Holland, Michigan. In both roles I collected and preserved the history of the West Michigan region. During this time I have learned everything anyone could ever want to know about the Dutch in America. Grand Rapids and Holland are the home of the largest Dutch enclave in North America.
I am a native of Wisconsin and have lived and roamed around Lake Michigan most of my life. Much of my compiling of library history centers in the Upper Midwest and the influence libraries have had in this part of the world. I love history of all types and read any history I can get my hands on. I also love cities. I am constantly in Chicago, Detroit or New York any chance I can get.

7.11.19 - Tim Liang
2019-07-11 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Tim Liang is a managing director at AlphaMax Advisors. AlphaMax is a management consultancy that specializes in helping American companies achieve financial success in China. The majority of AlphaMax’s clients are private manufacturing companies with annual revenues of $750 million or less. The firm was founded in 2003 by Ping Liang. Ping and Tim work closely with clients to develop and execute China entry strategies, including domestic China sales, US export sales, joint ventures, wholly owned operations, and sourcing. They are frequently engaged to improve the management and operations of client-owned companies in China and to conduct due diligence on clients’ Chinese competitors, partners and suppliers.
Prior to joining AlphaMax, Tim was senior vice president at Grand Haven, Michigan-based JSJ Corporation. Previously, he worked at McKinsey & Co., Arthur D. Little and Cummins Inc. Tim has 37 years of China business experience. He received a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Oberlin College and three master’s degrees from Yale University – in East Asian Studies, Chinese Archaeology and Public & Private Management.
Tim currently serves on the boards of four companies and the boards of the Grand Rapids Symphony and Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park.

7.4.19 - 4th of July - No Luncheon
2019-07-04 12:00 - 13:15

6.27.19 - Presidents Passing of the Tiller
2019-06-27 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States

6.20.19 - Michele Suchovsky
2019-06-20 12:00 - 13:15
Michele has served for 15 years as executive director of two nonprofit organizations, the first a disability organization and the second a fundraising and education organization. In these roles, she helped to grow both organizations into thriving nonprofit agencies impacting the lives of children and adults throughout West Michigan.
Michele believes that all people should have the right and opportunity to live independent, full lives and that PAWS® is a critical resource for helping people to find and maintain independence. Joining Paws With A Cause® in November 2018 was a dream come true as she has seen firsthand how an assistance dog can transform lives and communities for the better.
For fun, she enjoys curling up with a good book (especially when it is cold outside!), hiking the fabulous trails in Michigan with her husband and dog, or hosting gatherings of friends at her home.

Carrie Simmons, External Relations Manager
Carrie has been with Paws With A Cause® for two and a half years. Her passion and previous work for disability justice and love of dogs makes PAWS® the perfect place for her. The magical stories of the life-changing work of assistance dogs is something Carrie loves to share with anyone who will listen. While at Western Michigan University, Carrie earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Go Broncos!

With special guests, WINDSOR, a PAWS demonstration dog, and PROMISE, Foster Puppy and Future Assistance Dog.

6.13.19 - Chip Kragt
2019-06-13 12:00 - 13:15 | University Club of Grand Rapids, 111 Lyon St NW Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Chip was hired as the Managing Director for 20 Liters in August of 2015.
Chip’s background in program implementation, volunteer management, and planning stem from his over 10 years of non-profit experience in Human and Social Service agencies, most recently with the American Red Cross. Chip brings more than 3 years of international experience working in Kenya, Haiti, Alaska, and Northern Ireland.
Chip holds a BS in Psychology from Cornerstone University.
Chip is passionate about the humanitarian right to basic necessities and breaking the cycle of poverty.
He and his wife are raising their first child (and expecting their second) in Grand Rapids, MI.
