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Born and raised on a farm outside of Buckley, Brenda left the area for a time to study in Boston and New York and lived in Los Angeles for 15 years, only to finally return to the place she now considers home, Traverse City, in 1980. Amongst the many things she enjoys about Northern Michigan is the wonderful people and natural beauty. Though her travels have provided some spectacular views, Brenda has never found any place with scenery that compares to Traverse City. She and her husband, Ross, recently celebrated their 21st anniversary of wedded bliss along with their four sons, four granddaughters (three of which are identical triplet girls!) and one grandson.
Her local claim to fame is as an avid community supporter and non-profit event planner. Having started the Extravaganza for the Women’s Resource Center, the Black & White Gala for the Old Town Playhouse, the Cattle Baron’s Ball for the American Cancer Society, the Big Soiree for the Big Brothers Big Sister’s Organization, and most recently, the Crescendo Club to benefit the Traverse Symphony Orchestra, Brenda considers it a great honor to have been able to contribute to the area through working with these local non-profit organizations. She was also appointed, by Governor Granholm, to the Board of Directors of the Michigan Council for Arts & Cultural Affairs. Brenda has selected Traverse Health Clinic and Coalition as the beneficiary of these charitable contributions because of the incredibly important work they do in providing excellent healthcare to uninsured, low-income members of our community. The Clinic is served by a committed group of caring volunteer physicians, and she is hoping this competition will bring needed attention to this deserving organization.
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