They say the squirrels are busier than ever stashing away stocks of food, I have seen eagles and lots of small birds all flocked together. What does that mean? Some say that means a long hard winter. This is Michigan we are prepared for whatever is thrown at us. So bring it on. Last week the farm community took a big hit with the hail storm. What a year.
I am proud of all we have accomplished as a Rotary during these tough times. Hopefully in the near future we can get back to just making a better community without having to dodge obstacles. This month we will finish up Zinser Elementary school with a planting of native grasses. I hope to have a date to dispose of Tom’s paper files. We were able to meet at the Swan for the first time in months. We have some committees to form next month, along with lining up speakers and planning for our usual holiday volunteering. See you soon, Enjoy this wonderful Michigan week.
Sincerely,
Greg Madura, President
MEETING WHERE? Since mid-March our club has met online on Zoom, at the Henze Center, Dwight-Lydell Park and Wahlfield Park. This has been an adventure we pray we don't have to repeat even though we are grateful for the technology and facilities that are available to us in this area. Recently, we started meeting back at the Swan Inn after new orders from Governor Whitmer. You must wear a mask to come to the Swan Inn and downstairs. The seating is socially distanced and will be staggered. We are doing our best to keep everyone safe. If you don't feel comfortable coming yet, we understand.
FIRE PROTECTION MILLAGE ON ALPINE BALLOT
On October 15th, we hope to have a member of the Committee on the Fire Millage speak. This millage would remodel the existing Henze Center and construct 5 fire bays for trucks. This would become the primary fire station for Alpine Township. Mr. Larry Orlowski, a former Kent County Sheriff officer, is chair of the committee. The other members of the Blue Ribbon Committee are Alex Arends, Laurie Alt, Fritz Schweitzer, Mike Lasko and Roger Parent.
This presentation is for our information only. Comstock Park Rotary can not take a position on a political issue or candidate by our Constitution. Rotary is interested in the well being of our community where many of us live or work so the information will be timely.
COMMITTEE UPDATE
All members are expected to serve on at least one committee. Below are the current committees and their members. If you haven't signed up yet, please email or let Alex or Sharon know your choice. These committees will be meeting soon so put your thoughts and ideas together especially for ways that we can do some fundraising. New members should select a committee they might be interested in. Thank you. Help us in planning and implementing projects, invite potential members to get acquainted with Rotary, and share in the fellowship of working together.
Administration & Foundation:Diane Van Epps, Chair; Liz Knapp , Bob Homan, Gayle Steffen, Sharon Steffens, Cindy Witke
Membership & Public Relations: Alex Arends, Chair; Brent Beuschel, Gerry Hopkins, Dave Washburn / Missi McPherson
Service Projects: Christy Nowak, Chair; Dan Clark, Rick Van Setters, Greg Madura, Kent Gagnon, Bernie Spruit, Trina Elvey, Kevin Gritters, Missi McPherson / Dave Washburn
Comstock Park Rotarians at work revitalizing the courtyard at Zinser Elementary. Aug 2020 Pictured here: Bob Homan and Greg Madura hard at work digging a hole.
Rotary and Zinser Elementary Update
On Saturday, October 10th, several members and two children assisted in bringing the Zinser School project to the finish line by planting Praire Sedge and other grasses plus a pine tree. In addition, it was nice to see the pond rehab which was completed by Clarks Landscaping. Metal signs have also been installed. (See Dan Clark's picture to the left.)
Zinser Elementary is in the Kenowa Hills school district and educates students grades K-5. The school has a large courtyard that was in need of a renovation. Clark's Landscape created a design that features native Michigan plants so that it can be used as a teaching lab and an outdoor classroom. The Board of Comstock Park Rotary recently approved a $2,000 donation for the purchase of plants and trees. We thank Dan Clark and Clarks Landscaping for providing the plans for this project and parents for their support.
A large difference was made in the community with this project! Students will really enjoy some outdoor learning opportunities in this newly revitalized peaceful space.
CP Rotarians brought out their friends and families to Zinser Elementary to work on the courtyard. Oct. 2020 Pictured here: Back : Dan Clark, Belinda Choy, Sharon Steffens, Cindy Witke. Front: Mitchelle & Dariel Choy, and Gerry Hopkins. Taking the picture was Greg Madura.
Belinda Choy, was recently inducted as a new member. She has taken the Resident Relations position at York Creek Apts. Belinda has been employed at York Creek for three years. She and her two children, Mitchelle and Dariel, helped at Zinser School last Saturday. Dariel especially enjoyed the turtles.
