February invites us to reflect on one of Rotary’s most enduring and essential commitments: Peace and Conflict Resolution. At its core, Rotary was founded on the belief that lasting change begins with understanding, respect, and a shared commitment to the common good. In a world that often feels divided, this theme could not be more timely.
Peace is not only forged on the world stage, it is built locally, one relationship and one conversation at a time. Right here in our own community, we see peace in action when educators create inclusive environments for students, when service organizations collaborate to meet the needs of our most vulnerable neighbors, and when individuals choose dialogue over division. These moments may not make headlines, but they are powerful examples of conflict resolution at work.
Nationally, our country continues to grapple with complex social, political, and economic challenges. While opinions may differ, Rotary reminds us that respectful engagement and a willingness to listen are critical tools for progress. Programs that promote civic education, youth leadership, and community mediation help foster understanding and reinforce the idea that disagreement does not have to lead to discord.
On the international level, Rotary’s commitment to peace is unmistakable. Through Rotary Peace Centers, we invest in developing leaders who are trained to prevent and resolve conflict across cultures and borders. Rotary grants and global partnerships help address the root causes of conflict (e.g. poverty, lack of education, and inequality), creating pathways toward sustainable peace. These efforts demonstrate how service, when guided by compassion and cooperation, can transcend boundaries.
As Rotarians, we are uniquely positioned to be ambassadors of peace. Whether through our service projects, our professional lives, or our everyday interactions, we have the opportunity to model empathy, fairness, and understanding.
This February, let us recommit ourselves to Rotary’s vision of a more peaceful world, starting right where we are, and extending as far as our service can reach.
Birthdays: Emily Folkema-1, David Washburn-7, Bernard Spruit-8
Anniversaries: None
MARCH
Birthdays: Diane Van Epps-4
Anniversaries: None
Attached is a link for the December 2025 Rotary International Newsletter. It contains very informative articles surrounding the efforts in ending Polio. All Rotarians should be encouraged to read these articles along with the monthly magazines. They contain valuable information PLUS we never know when we might be quizzed! ;)
During our Club Assembly on January 11th, Comstock Park High School teacher, Danelle Hovenkamp, spoke with our club about Unified Sports at Comstock Park High School. Unified Sports is an inclusive program combining individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities (athletes) and without (partners) on the same team for training and competition. Comstock Park High School has Unified Sports teams in bowling and basketball. See more about Unified Sports at Comstock Park High School in the School News Network.
February 5th's Club Assembly speaker will be Ed Hood. He is the Past President of our club in 1989. He will be sharing on Comstock Park Rotary and DDA History Highlights!
Upcoming Events
02/05/2026 Board Meeting @ Wahlfield Construction 10:50-11:50 All are welcome
02/05/2026 Club Assembly @ Mill Creek 12:10-1:15 with Ed Hood speaking
02/19/2026 Club Assembly @ Mill Creek 12:10-1:15 Committee Meetings
