Local explorer is Rotary luncheon speaker

The Coconut Grove's weekly luncheon is Thursday, August 25 at the Coconut Grove Sailing Club, starting at 12:15 pm.

Guest speaker is Charles Kropke, Managing Partner of Dragonfly Expeditions.   

Charles Kropke.
Photo courtesy YouTube

As Managing Partner of Dragonfly Expeditions, a 20-year-old expeditionary tour company of Florida and the Caribbean Basin, Charles has created over 150 tours pertaining to history, ecology, adventures, culture and the learning sciences.  Under his guidance over 100 tour guides strive to give passionate and informed interpretations of the geographical region in which the company operates.

An avid adventurer, Charles will share insights into the history of how the Florida Everglades have been impacted by developers as well as personal anecdotes of his experience with people, animals and the wilderness as a guide and entrepreneur. Charles fascination with South Florida began as a young child when his family moved to Fort Myers and one of his teachers challenged him to learn about the environment and how he could have a positive impact. During his career as a stock broker, he was introduced to the Everglades Restoration Movement where he became a 10-year First Lieutenant engaged in the removal of the invasive Melaleuca tree from many square miles of the Everglades. His entrepreneurial spirit took over and Charles began venturing into the startup and growth of various businesses including Dragonfly Expeditions, Margaritaville Travel Adventures, Windjammer Sailing Adventures, and Tropic Moon Media.

Charles has written several books including "South Beach: Stories of A Renaissance” and recently won an Emmy for the documentary “Unseen Everglades”.

Please RSVP to coconutgroverotaryclub@gmail.com.

The luncheon is $20 and all are welcome, not just Rotary Club members.

The Coconut Grove Sailing Club is at 2990 S. Bayshore Drive.