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 was not feeling well so we recited the Pledge of Allegiance

4-Way Test:  Drew Smith

Invocation:  Tim Dykstra

“New Year — a new chapter, new verse, or just the same old story? Ultimately, we write it. The choice is yours.”  Alex Morris                                            
Calendar Winners:  Read off by Rich Perlberg

Calendar Winners January 8, 2025

Visiting Rotarians:  None

Guests:  Deanna Klosinski, Ian Seraley, Alex Fichera; Prospective Members

Life Events:

Keeping the DeWindt Family in Our Thoughts
Please keep the DeWindt family in your prayers. Megan DeWindt’s mother recently passed away.

Birthdays:

Mike Snyder

Anniversaries:

Nikki LaDeur – 6 Years

Kassia Perpich – 6 Years

Walt Byers – 6 Years in our Club and 39 Years in Rotary

Howard Richards – 13 Years

Singing/Song:  Christian Smith led us in Happy Birthday. It was so off key that Howard called to express concern even though he was many miles away. Steve Cross was in attendance today and he should have been asked to lead the song. Please return Howard. We are in need of musical direction.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Club Assembly – Your Voice Matters!

We need a quorum at next week’s club assembly meeting, so please make plans to attend. We’ll be voting on the Community Giving Initiative, and your input is essential as we shape the future of our club’s impact. See you there!

Annual Health & Fitness Tips – Joe Blachy

Joe Blachy shared his annual get-fit tips and reminded Rotarians of the importance of health and exercise. Be sure to see Joe for a copy of his exercise system to help you stay on track!

Rotary Member Spotlight: Bill Collins

This week, we highlighted longtime member Bill Collins. Bill shared his “origin story,” reflecting on his early years in the military and National Guard, including experiences on the ground during the Kent State riots and a prisoner's riot at the Ohio State Penitentiary.
Bill opened up about overcoming challenges with substance abuse and celebrating 30 years of sobriety. After retiring from the National Guard, he built a successful career in auto sales, retiring in 2004.

Now a 20-year resident of Petoskey, Bill enjoys fly fishing, sailing, furniture making, music, and movies—especially The Godfather. He has volunteered through SCORE and Rotary and is a multiple-time Paul Harris Fellow.

Bill also reflected on the loss of his grandson, Luke, who battled illness for years. He expressed gratitude for the comfort and support he found among fellow Rotarians during that difficult time.

In closing, Bill summed up his journey with the words: “I’ve had a good life.”

PROGRAM:  Vocational Program

Bridging the Past and Present

Speakers: Megan DeWindt (Bay View Association) and Craig Stolzenfels (Bay Harbor Co.)

This week, Megan DeWindt and Craig Stolzenfels shared the stage to present on the rich histories and shared successes of two iconic Emmet County communities—Bay View and Bay Harbor.

Bay View Association
Megan highlighted Bay View as a historic summer community dedicated to transforming the mind, body, and soul. Founded by members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, Bay View is a welcoming destination along the shores of Little Traverse Bay, offering opportunities for learning, enrichment, and relaxation. With its warm, open atmosphere and vibrant cultural and educational programming, Bay View invites everyone to “Experience Summer with Us” and enjoy the beauty and history of this unique community.

Bay Harbor
Craig showcased Bay Harbor’s evolution into a world-class destination, boasting five miles of stunning Lake Michigan shoreline between Petoskey and Charlevoix. Known for its spectacular views, luxury amenities, and year-round recreational opportunities, Bay Harbor is a haven for residents, vacationers, and visitors alike.

The Village at Bay Harbor is a vibrant hub, especially in summer, with waterfront dining, boutique shops, and annual events like the Classic Car & Boat Festival, July 3rd fireworks, and the Bay Harbor Arts Festival. Fall brings the colorful Balloons Over Bay Harbor event, while winter offers a magical atmosphere with twinkling lights, cozy lodgings, and access to Northern Michigan’s ski slopes.

Craig emphasized that Bay Harbor is a four-season destination—perfect for mixing business with pleasure, reconnecting with loved ones, or simply unplugging from the everyday hustle.

Both communities exemplify the charm, history, and natural beauty that make Northern Michigan such a special place to live, work, and visit. And both communities con-tribute to our local economy—bringing jobs, investments, and opportunities to Emmet County.

Next Week’s Program:  Club Assembly