• Following the call to order by President Homer Nye, Jennifer Casey brought us the day’s Thoughts of Gratitude and Reflection. 

• Al Bonney & Friends led the singing with “Me and Bobby McGee” before Nikki Sobkowski introduced our guests for the day.

• Nikki then returned to the dais to Introduce new member and Rotarian transfer from further north, Bryan Price. 

• We also met another new member, Aarron Davenport, introduced by Benjamin Marentette.

• Our newest Youth Exchange Student Ayl from the Philippines gave us a brief yet comprehensive view of his country. Good to meet this young man! Make sure to say Hello. And a thank you to his current host parents John & Rachel.

• It’s Rotary Foundation Month, so we saw a nice short video….

• Steve Wade put out the request for assistance and donations for Christmas Baskets. By far the most emotionally exhilarating and rewarding services we do as a Club!

• Vern Gauthier did his reminder and ask for help for Bell Ringing (Dec 9-14) and a free week at Fit for You as part of the Ride for Polio (11/23). A donation is all that is required for next week’s free option.

• Don’t forget the Holiday Party on 12/10. Keep your eyes peeled for an email sign-up.

Youth Exchange Student Ayl from the Philippines with President Homer

Tom Petzold introduced Tribe Chairman Sam McClellan of the Proud Nation of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. It’s been a few years since we last heard at the noon club from the Chairman. It was a good opportunity to reacquaint the Club with the Band and their activities.

Chairman McClellan’s comments were on the general interest side. He spoke of the grants that have gone to the Fire Departments and some others that have gone to the assistance of the Band’s many neighbors in need. He was very generous in his praise of Rotary and the work we do in the interest of the community that is shared by the Band. 

The Chairman intimated the Band’s focus on and commitment to the preservation of air, land and water. They are against Pipeline 5 and the Tunnel, which they feel are damaging to the Band’s economy and the resources impacted.

He referenced the handout (see the Images below) that will bring us up to date. He acknowledged his assistant, LeAnn and niece, Christy who have done much to advance him and the programs they pursue. Then he spoke lovingly of his wife of 47 years and extended family and thanked them as well.