It was a night of tractor racing for the businesses and organizations in Gratiot County who attended the 15th annual Lions Club tractor race. You may be picturing an outdoor track, the sound of running engines, and large tires, but that’s not exactly how it went. Each participant races a small wooden tractor on a table track through the roll of dice. It’s a night of laughter, bets, and friendly competition!
GreenStone's Alma branch came to win! The GreenStone tractor won the first two heats but came up short in the race for overall champion. Megan Hessbrook, Jennifer Whitford, and Riley Travis from the Alma branch attended the competition.
The event raised $8,000 for the Lions Club which helps fund their multiple projects around Gratiot County. The organization addresses natural disasters, community hunger, childhood cancer, community service, and youth and leadership scholarships.
For Jennifer Whitford, the Lions Club mission hits close to home. “One of their projects is free vision screening and while at the fair my 18-month-old nephew had his vision screened, and we learned that he had a vision impairment and needed glasses,” Jennifer explained.
Supporting events like these provide heartfelt moments for employees like Jennifer who have a personal connection, but it’s also a great way to connect with the community and GreenStone customers.
“I saw a handful of customers and mutual companies that we work alongside. So, it was a great time to mingle, see each other in person, and spread awareness of the GreenStone name,” Megan Hessbrook said.
Before the tractors began their race across the table, they lined up for judging when attendees pick the best-looking tractor to win the “Sexiest Tractor” title. Businesses adorn wooden tractors with LED lights, real rubber, and smokestacks. The GreenStone tractor used to be decorated differently each year, but now it’s wrapped to look like a real tractor with the GreenStone logo.
GreenStone encourages all branches and employees to get involved in their local communities to support organizations like the Lions Club. Through supporting the Lions Club, we are also helping to fight against community hunger, natural disasters, and other community disparities the Lions Club works to supports. To learn more about Greenstone's mission to get involved, visit Open Fields Blog | GreenStone FCS.
