I. Welcome and Opening Remarks V. Rakowski called the meeting to order at 9:45 AM
V. Rakowski said some kind words about Barb Steele who had passed away this past week.
• Establish Quorum / Roll Call by Secretary Present: Victoria Rakowski, President; William Bennett, Vice President; Daniel Blanton, Treasurer; David Weber, Secretary; Robert Delecki, Cameron Geralds, Lindsay Miller, Nicholas Schulz, Ross Trim Sr., Brian Rogers, General Manager, and Nina Brinker, Assistant General Manager.
II. Executive Session To convene after regular meeting.
2025 Board Master Goals
• Long-Term Financial Plan
• Board & Committee Governance Review o Board Policy Manual o Committee Charters / Structure
III. Approval of Meeting Agenda
Motion by N. Schulz, supported by W. Bennett to approve July 26, 2025, Meeting Agenda as presented. Motion Approved 9-0.
IV. Approval of Consent Agenda
Motion by N. Schulz, supported by D. Blanton to approve July 26, 2025, Meeting Consent Agenda as presented. Motion Approved 9-0.
V. OPERATIONS / GENERAL MANAGER’ S REPORTS
Most, if not all, of this report has already been published through the Membership Minute blog.
A. CCR MEMBERS HELP RAISE $ 34,500 FOR STORM RECOVERY – We are humbled and grateful for the outpouring of generosity shown by our membership in the wake of the 2025 ice storm that impacted much of Northern Michigan and our beloved Canada Creek Ranch.
Following the storm, the Canada Creek Regional Foundation Board of Directors stepped up with a pledge to match up to $ 10,000 in donations to aid the Ranch in its recovery efforts. This initiative was shared with the membership, and, as always, your response was nothing short of incredible.
Thanks to your support, the Foundation received $ 12,500 in donations. When combined with the Foundation’ s matching contribution, a total of $ 22,500 has been provided to help offset storm-related costs and aid in our ongoing cleanup and restoration efforts. Once we add in the monies that were directly donated to CCR, the total donations come to $ 34,500. Amazing!
Board of Directors Meeting Unapproved July 26, 2025
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This success is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we work together. The funds raised have brought much-needed financial relief and have allowed us to make real progress toward restoring the club after the storm.
I would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to all who contributed, and specifically to the CCR Foundation Board. Your generosity not only strengthened our recovery but also reaffirmed our shared commitment to preserving the natural beauty and mission of Canada Creek Ranch.
B. HONORING THREE VALUED TEAM MEMBERS FOR THEIR YEARS OF DEDICATION – As the summer season begins at Canada Creek Ranch, I want to take a moment to recognize three long-tenured team members who announced their retirements from specific roles earlier this year. While each of them leaves behind big shoes to fill, we are incredibly grateful for the years of commitment they have given to the Ranch.
Leann Howe is retiring after 15 years of outstanding service as a server in the Ranch House Grille. Leann has been a familiar and friendly face to countless members and guests, always bringing warmth, efficiency, and a sense of pride to her work. Her dedication to ensuring a positive dining experience for all will be remembered fondly, and she will certainly be missed by both her fellow teammates and the members she has come to know so well.
Cassie Cotner is retiring from the CCR Fire Brigade after an impressive 19 years of service. Cassie has been a trusted and committed member of our fire brigade, serving in many roles, including training officer for many years. Her willingness to serve our club is during these years is much appreciated. I thank Cassie for nearly two decades of dedication in keeping our Ranch safe.
Matt Reilly is also stepping down from the CCR Fire Brigade after 16 years of service, some as an officer. Matt’ s contributions to the Brigade have been invaluable, and his experience and knowledge of the club made a lasting impact on our safety. While we will miss him in his firefighting role, we’ re grateful that his work and commitment to CCR will continue within the Maintenance Department.
Please join me in thanking Leann, Cassie, and Matt for their many years of service, and in wishing them the very best in this next chapter. Their dedication, loyalty, and presence have helped make CCR a special place, and they will be deeply missed in their respective roles.
Motion by N. Schulz, supported by W. Bennett, to approve the Operations / General Manager’ s Report as presented. Motion Approved 9-0.
VI. Committee Reports
· Campground May 4, 2025, Meeting Minutes
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