Penticton’s mayor proud to be a Rotarian

Although best-known as the mayor of Penticton, a long-time city councillor and local businessman, John Vassilaki is equally proud of having the title “Rotarian” in his portfolio.

“I’m proud to wear the Rotary pin. When other people see it, whether they are Rotarians themselves or just aware of the work Rotary does, you are greeted with so much enthusiasm,” Vassilaki said in an interview.

“Rotary does so much for our community. I don’t think people realize how much money they raise not only for our own community, but for global causes — polio eradication, clean water, schools for girls.”

Vassilaki joined Rotary in 2002 and was sponsored by the late Harry Chesher. In those days, meetings were held at the former Penticton Inn.

Over the years, he’s volunteered for many projects, including the Christmas wheelbarrow raffle, Ironman aid stations and the Rotary Ribfest, where, appropriately enough, he’s behind the bar drawing on his experience from being a former nightclub owner.

His favourite Rotary activities are the ones which involve seniors.

Prior to entering municipal politics, he was twice on the club’s executive board.

“I had always been a member of a service club. Before I joined Rotary, I was active with the Lions Club and was a two-year president for them. Rotary meetings are at noon-hour which works well for my schedule.” In addition to being a member of the Rotary Club of Penticton, Vassilaki is also member of a club in Mexico, where he owns a second home. The club is made up of English-speaking North Americans (the president is Mexican) and it’s located in Playa del Carmen. Being a Rotarian, members are welcomed at meetings anywhere in the world. Vassilaki and his wife have attended meetings in both Hawaii and Athens.

“I’m not able to devote as much time to Rotary as before I was mayor, but Rotary is still a very big part of my life, something I really enjoy” he said.