Rotary Informer

Welcome to the Rotary Club of Petoskey. President Christian Smith officiated the meeting. If you did not get the chance to attend, you can read about it in this newsletter.

Pledge/Anthem:  Howard Richards led us in My Country tis of Thee

4-Way Test:  Andi Symonds

Invocation:  Neil Bidwell  

A Doctor, a Lawyer and a Rotarian in charge of fundraising all die and arrive at the Pearly Gates about the same time. St. Peter tells them they may each have one thing to take with them to Heaven. The Doctor is first and asks for 1 million dollars. This is given and he proceeds to enter Heaven. The Lawyer, not to be outdone, asks for 2 million dollars. "Very well" says St. Peter and opens the gate to Heaven for the Lawyer. Finally, it is time for the Rotarian, who had been working on a fundraiser for the Rotary Foundation. St. Peter asks him what he would like to take to Heaven. The fundraiser moves up very close to St. Peter, and in a soft voice asks, "If it's not too much trouble, could I have the names of the two people who were ahead of me in line?"

Calendar Winners:  Read off by Kim Larson

Calendar Winners January 29, 2025

Visiting Rotarians:  None

Guests:  None  

Life Events:  None

Birthdays:

None

Anniversaries:

Bill Hicklen – 22 Years

Gary Fedus – 31 Years

Singing/Song:  Howard Richards led us in Smile

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Rotary Night at North Central Michigan College: Join us for the 2nd Annual Rotary Night on February 12, 2025, as the NCMC Timberwolves take on the Kirtland Community College Firebirds in an exciting basketball doubleheader! Women’s game starts at 5:30 PM, and the men’s game follows at 7:30 PM. Wear your Rotary gear or pin and receive a free popcorn.

Lunch Price Increase: Starting January 2025, lunch prices will be adjusted to $17.50 for members (including tax and a 22% service fee) and $22 for guests.

PROGRAM:  David Finley, North Central Michigan College

Dr. David Finley, President of North Central Michigan College, delivered an inspiring presentation about the college’s ongoing growth and success. Enrollment has in-creased by 5-6% this year, marking three consecutive years of steady growth. The college’s healthcare programs are also thriving, with the first class of Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) students graduating in December 2024 to begin their careers. Additionally, the 2024 Registered Nurse (RN) class once again performed among the best in the state, reinforcing North Central’s reputation for excellence in nursing education.

The college’s athletics department continues to expand, bringing more opportunities for students and adding value to campus life.

Looking ahead, North Central is making significant investments in its technical career programs, with plans to grow offerings in HVAC, construction, welding, and workforce training. A major milestone in this effort is the construction of the Martin Jahn Technical Center, a $22 million project that will provide state-of-the-art facilities for students pursuing careers in skilled trades. Meanwhile, the college is also advancing its childcare initiative and exploring the addition of a dental hygiene program to further support workforce development in the region.

North Central invites the community to join them for the groundbreaking of the Martin Jahn Technical Center on February 3 at 2 PM in the Borra Learning Center. And don’t miss Rotary Night at the Timberwolves basketball game on February 12—wear your Rotary pin or gear and enjoy a free popcorn while cheering on North Central’s team!

Next Week’s Program:  Emily Boehm, NW Michigan Habitat for Humanity