AFFEW Environmental Awards

Honoring Our Local Leaders

Each year at our Annual Meeting, AFFEW honors local leaders who are exceptional in the environmental field and have made a difference in the community. The board of directors takes pride in recognizing these individuals and businesses for sustainable practices, environmental leadership and hours of volunteering.

2023 Awards

Environmentalists of the Year 

Kathy Winczewski has been a champion for a healthy environment for a long time. She was  passionate teacher working on environmental projects with her students and was on the AFFEW board for many years. Kathy continues to volunteer a great deal, especially with the Invasive Species Removal program in Cartier Park. As a city council member for several years she introduced many sustainable ideas and practices, helping Ludington become a more sustainable city!

Volunteer of the Year 
Carmelitta Tiffany has been helping with AFFEW memberships for over 3 years, sending  out emails of gratitude along with tax receipts. She recorded and photographed AFFEW’s Earth Day programs in 2023. Carmelitta is currently helping to expand fundraising opportunities for our organization.

Sustainable Business of the Year
Kyle and Lynnette Nichols, owners of Trailhead Bike Shop, are very involved in the community, donating time and resources to many local charities. They have been a force in improving cycling opportunities throughout the county including road, trail and mountain biking. They have  also helped promote physical and mental health by getting kids involved in cycling and outdoor recreation.

Past Awards

YearEnvironmentalistVolunteerSustainable Business
2022Dave & Chrissie HallDave Dister

Ted & Louise Gerta,
Ludington Bay Brewing Co.

2019Alan HaslamJim Clark &
Brenda Begnoche

Marsha Maluchnik, Evergreen Natural Foods
2018Glenn WalquistHeidi MoloneyPadnos
2017Jordan DeVries, Mason-Lake Conservation Dist.Steve Begnoche, Ludington Daily NewsDave Diephouse,
Q Smokehouse