“Faces of Rotary” is a series on Facebook, where we introduce members regularly. Today we introduce you to Margrit Kehmeier`
What do you like about Colorado and the Rotary Club of Cedaredge?
I love Colorado—this colorful piece of earth with its wide-open views and varied landscapes. Living in Eckert is especially enjoyable because from here, I can see green fields, the Grand Mesa, and the desert in the distance. It is a wonderful place to call home also because of the friendliness of the people. Colorado also gives me plenty of opportunities to enjoy some of my favorite activities, especially skiing and walking. When I am not outdoors, I enjoy cooking and experimenting in the kitchen. I joined the Rotary Club of Cedaredge in the summer of 2024. After my husband and I moved to Eckert, club members gave us a warm welcome and helped us connect with the community. Over time, Rotary has become an important part of our life here. I was also grateful for the opportunity to continue the work of former Public Image Chair Don Benjamin and his wife, Donna Marie.
What are you working on at Rotary?
As Public Image Chair, I work with fellow club members on the club's external communications. Together with Past President Steve Blackburn, we have developed a more structured communication process to improve workflows, responsibilities, and consistency. We prepare press releases nearly every week and regularly share news and stories on our Club’s Facebook. It has been encouraging to see the Rotary Club of Cedaredge receive recognition beyond our local community for its leadership and storytelling. Our Club and Foundation have stories, and the Surface Creek Valley community has many worth sharing—from service projects and scholarships to the people and partnerships behind them. I look forward to continuing this work and finding new ways to tell these stories.
What would you like to see from Rotary in the future as far as opportunities?
I look forward to learning during Mark Condon's presidency and gaining experience that will help prepare me to follow him next year as Club President. I appreciate the opportunity and the trust the club has placed in me. Looking ahead, I hope our club continues to attract new members. Offering online participation in meetings can make Rotary more accessible and flexible for people with different schedules and commitments. I would also like to see more opportunities for socializing. Fellowship is an important part of Rotary and helps build the relationships that support our work in the community. It is encouraging to see the club growing. More members mean more opportunities to serve and support local projects, including providing scholarships for students. I look forward to being part of that continued development.
Margrit Kehmeier was born in Germany and is married to Ralph Kehmeier, a native Coloradan from Eckert. She loves writing and worked for many years as a PR Consultant.