A partnership and restoration fund for the Old Presque Isle Lighthouse, one of the oldest surviving lighthouses on the Great Lakes, was announced on Tuesday, October 23. The announcement marks the beginning of a campaign to raise $250,000 for the first phase of the lighthouse’s restoration. The fund is based at the Community Foundation for Northeast Michigan.

Karen Pettalia, wife of the late Presque Isle Township supervisor and State Representative Peter Pettalia, was there to present a check for $15,000. Pettalia was killed in a traffic crash in 2016.

“Pete tirelessly dedicated his energy and leadership to Northeast Michigan and Presque Isle Township,” Karen Pettalia said in a press release. “He knew first hand how much it took to keep these magnificent lighthouses as proud beacons of our community and the Great Lakes. In his memory, I hope people will continue to help take care of our lighthouses, both through their generosity and by volunteering their time.”

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