October 2024
S M T W T F S
29
30
02
03
04
05
06
07
09
10
11
12
13
14
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
01
02
Upcoming Events
Club Executives & Directors
President
President Elect
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Past President
Vocational Service
Rotary Foundation
Membership
Public Relations
Interact Liaison
Sergeant-at-Arms
Executive Secretary / Director
Speakers
No Morning Meeting
Oct 15, 2024
Club Assembly
Nov 05, 2024
Club Assembly
Dec 10, 2024
Club Assembly
Jan 07, 2025
Club Assembly
Feb 04, 2025
Club Assembly
Mar 04, 2025
Club Assembly
Apr 08, 2025
Club Assembly
May 06, 2025
Club Assembly
Jun 03, 2025
Club Information
Flushing

Rotary Club of Flushing, Michigan

We meet In Person
Tuesdays at 7:00 a.m.
The Pig and The Hen
1072 S. Elms Rd.
Flint, MI 48532
United States of America
Home Page Stories
 
🌟 Today's Flushing Rotary Speaker: Brandi Schmidt - Little Pink Houses of Hope 🌟
This morning, we were honored to welcome Brandi Schmidt from Little Pink Houses of Hope to speak with our Flushing Rotary Club! 💖🏠
Little Pink Houses of Hope empowers breast cancer patients and their families to live each day to the fullest with purpose, hope, and direction on their cancer journey. Through free, week-long vacation retreats, they provide a much-needed break from medical schedules and the heavy burden of healthcare costs. But most importantly, they offer a supportive environment where families can rediscover joy, strengthen relationships, and build connections with others who truly understand the impact of diagnosis and treatment. 🌸👨‍👩‍👦
Thank you, Brandi, for sharing this incredible organization's mission with us today and your personal journey!
Interested in joining the Flushing Rotary? Send us a message!
Together, we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change—across the globe, in our communities, and within ourselves. 🌍💪
Rotarians in action at this year's Harvest Fest! 🌾🍂

We were proud to have the Rotary Club of Flushing present, sharing our mission of 'Service Above Self' with the community. From scholarships for local teens to grants for important projects, we’re committed to making a lasting impact.

To learn more about how we support the Flushing area and how YOU can get involved, send us a message!

Together, we’re building a better future! #RotaryClub #ServiceAboveSelf #FlushingRotary #HarvestFest2024 #CommunityAction 

🎉 Rotary Student of the Month: Hana Allam! 🎉

We are thrilled to announce Hana Allam as our Rotary Student of the Month! A senior at FHS, Hana currently holds an impressive GPA of 4.129, ranking her 2nd in the class of 2025.

Hana is the daughter of Azmy Allam and Walaa Awad and has a wonderful family support system, including her five older siblings—Nadia, Ibrahim, Lila, and her two accomplished brothers, Yusuf (2022 valedictorian) and Adam (2023 Interactor).

In her free time, Hana enjoys playing tennis and diving into murder mystery novels. She's actively involved in multiple clubs, including the Rotary Club, National Honor Society, and Quiz Bowl, and serves as the student representative on the Flushing Community Schools Board of Education.

Her commitment to community service is truly inspiring! Hana volunteers with the Muslim Youth of North America, participates in Adopt-a-Highway cleanups, organizes book distributions, and supports tennis events at FHS.

An accomplished athlete, Hana has been on the Varsity Tennis team for all four years and was a regional finalist and Flint Metro League Champion last year.

Looking ahead, Hana plans to study Biology or Chemistry at the University of Michigan Ann Arbor, with aspirations of becoming a Physician Assistant.

One of her favorite memories at FHS includes the excitement of Raider Games and, of course, playing tennis. She also credits Mr. Ian Thomas as her favorite teacher for his dedication and support.

Congratulations, Hana! We are so proud of your achievements and can't wait to see what the future holds for you! 🌟 #RotaryStudentoftheMonth #FHS #FutureLeader

 

The Flushing Rotary Club was honored to welcome District Governor Katherine Hahn to our weekly meeting on Tuesday, September 3rd!

Katherine joined the Rotary Club of Stratford in 2003, motivated by a passion to give back to the community that supported her three children. She served on the board of directors starting in 2015 and led the club as president during the challenging 2020-21 term, where her leadership earned the club recognition for exceptional growth, ranking in the top 5% in North America during Covid.

Until 2023, Katherine served as District Polio Chair. A dedicated Rotarian, she’s a multiple Paul Harris Fellow and a proud member of the Bequest Society, Polio Plus, and Paul Harris Society. We are excited for her upcoming role as District Governor for the 2024-25 Rotary year!

Thank you, Katherine, for joining us and sharing your insights as we work toward our goals for the upcoming year! 🌟 #ServiceAboveSelf #RotaryInternational #FlushingRotary #DistrictGovernor #KatherineHahn

 
📚 The Flushing Rotary Club is always proud to support Flushing Community Schools and our meeting on August 20th was no different! We were honored to present Superintendent Matt Shanafelt with a $1,700 check to support child literacy at our weekly meeting.
 
These funds were raised through our annual Huge Rotary Garage Sale held in the spring, and we're thrilled to see them go towards such an important cause. Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make this donation possible!
 
Together, we’re making a difference in our community. #FlushingRotary #SupportOurSchools #ChildLiteracy #CommunityStrong
 
We are incredibly grateful to Paul and Emily Musolf of Kitsune Defense for speaking at our recent Rotary Club meeting! 🥋✨
Their dedication to the Nonprofit Self-Defense School is truly inspiring. Kitsune Defense is all about helping individuals find their personal power through self-defense training and education. They emphasized that self-defense is not just about physical movements but also about the crucial skills of conversation and de-escalation.
Thank you, Paul and Emily, for sharing your mission and passion with us.
 
We were thrilled to have Ed Benning, the CEO of Mass Transportation, as our guest speaker at our recent club meeting! 🚍✨
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Ed for sharing his invaluable insight and wisdom. He provided a thorough discussion on the upcoming millage renewal on the ballot, a topic crucial for our community's future.
A big thank you to Ed for taking the time to enlighten and engage us. His expertise was greatly appreciated by all in attendance.
 
We were thrilled to welcome Amber Taylor, the Executive Director of Back to the Bricks, to our July 16th meeting! 🎉
Back to the Bricks is an incredible celebration that brings over 500,000 car show enthusiasts to Genesee County annually. It's a true ode to our love of motor vehicles and honors our area's rich automotive history. 🏎️✨
Leading up to the Main Event, Back to the Bricks hosts Tune-up Parties and Promo Tours that get everyone revved up with anticipation. And when the big day arrives, it's a spectacular showcase featuring classic, custom, and collector vehicles of all kinds. 🎶🍔👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
Flint, known as the birthplace of "America's Sports Car," proudly hosts a National Reunion for Corvette aficionados during this thrilling week. The event is not just about cars; it's about community, with music, food vendors, and plenty of family-friendly activities creating an unforgettable atmosphere. 🎶🌭🎈
Amber shared a lot with us about this amazing event that brings so much joy and excitement to our community! 🌟
Thank you to Bueche's Food World for providing the donuts that morning! The generosity of our local businesses is above and beyond!
 
We are thrilled to announce that our newest Paul Harris Award recipient is none other than Andy Suski! 🎉 Andy has consistently dedicated his time, resources, and generosity to our club, making a lasting impact in our community. We are incredibly grateful for everything he does!
A huge thank you also goes out to Madison Thomas, owner of Kathy's Restaurant & Lounge and Madison's on Main, for graciously offering a space for our meetings throughout July. Your support means the world to us!
Join us in congratulating Andy and thanking Madison for their contributions to our Rotary family! 💙🙌
 
🌟 Passing of the Gavel Announcement 🌟
We are honored to announce that on Tuesday, June 25th, we marked a significant moment as we passed the gavel from Dr. Duane Allyn to Raleigh Horne. Dr. Allyn has served with exceptional dedication and leadership over the past year, steering us through challenges and successes alike. His vision and commitment have been truly inspiring, and we are immensely grateful for his contributions to our community.
As we welcome Raleigh Horne into his new role, we look forward to continuing our journey with fresh perspectives and renewed enthusiasm. Please join me in extending our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Allyn for his outstanding stewardship and in offering our full support to Raleigh Horne as he steps into this important position.
Here's to a future filled with continued growth and achievement under Raleigh's guidance!
.  
 
Big News! 
 
We're absolutely thrilled to announce that the Flushing Rotary Club has just made history by awarding our very first $1,000 Vocational Scholarship to Michael Workman, who will be pursuing a wind turbine tech program!
 
Michael's passion for renewable energy and his commitment to the field of wind turbine technology are truly inspiring. We couldn't be more proud to support him as he embarks on this exciting journey.
 
This scholarship represents our dedication to fostering education and supporting individuals like Michael who are pursuing careers in vital, innovative fields. By investing in Michael's education, we're not just empowering one person; we're investing in a sustainable future for our community and beyond.
 
Congratulations, Michael! Your determination and dedication have set you on a path to success, and we're honored to be a part of your journey.
 
        
 
 
We are thrilled to announce and celebrate the achievements of two outstanding individuals who have been awarded the Rotary Scholarships for $1,000 each! 
 
Scarlett Kihn, recipient of the School and Community Leadership Scholarship, exemplifies exceptional leadership qualities both within her school and in her community. Scarlett's dedication and commitment to making a positive impact have truly made her stand out. Congratulations, Scarlett! 
 
Lily Ethington, recipient of the Academic & School Participation Scholarship, has demonstrated outstanding academic excellence and active participation in various school activities. Lily's passion for learning and involvement in school life make her a true inspiration to her peers. Well done, Lily! 
 
This morning, both Scarlet and Lily joined us for a heartfelt breakfast ceremony where they were presented with their well-deserved certificates. It was a joyous occasion filled with pride and admiration for these incredible young leaders. 
 
Please join us in congratulating Scarlet and Lily on their remarkable achievements! 🎉 Let's continue to support and empower our youth to reach their fullest potential. 
 
🚗💥 What an exciting night we had on Friday, May 17th at the demolition derby at Birch Run Speedway and Event Center! A huge thank you to our fellow Rotarian, Andy Suski, for giving us the opportunity to be part of this thrilling event. We were able to sell raffle tickets and raised over $500 for the Flushing Rotary Club! Your support helps us continue our mission and make a positive impact in our community. Thank you to everyone who came out and supported us!
 
 
Darwin was presented with this honor in front of our fellow Rotarians and family. Here is the speech that the Executive Director from the Flushing Area Chamber of Commerce, a Rotarian with Darwin, gave on behalf of the Flushing Area Chamber of Commerce and the 2024 SummerFest presented by JoelsCarz.com! Committee.
 
To my fellow Rotarians and cherished members of our community, it is my honor and privilege to stand before you today to introduce a true beacon of inspiration, Mr. Darwin Scherba. As we gather to celebrate the vibrant spirit of our town at the 2024 SummerFest, it is only fitting that we recognize an individual whose dedication and selflessness have truly made our community shine brighter than ever before.
Darwin's tireless commitment to service knows no bounds. From his integral roles at the Flushing Community Church, Mercy Team, volunteering his time for Flushing Christian Outreach, Bread for Life, and the Great Food Give-away, to his steadfast presence at Rotary projects, Darwin embodies the spirit of community involvement in its purest form. His unwavering support and active participation in countless community-minded events have left a it No permanent mark on our town, touching the lives of so many in profound ways.
But Darwin's contributions extend far beyond the boundaries of our town. His advocacy for literacy, demonstrated through his efforts to ensure books are readily available in the little book house on Main St., speaks volumes about his passion for empowering others through education and access to resources.
It is with great admiration and gratitude that the SummerFest committee has chosen Darwin Scherba as the grand marshal for this year's Shining Bright Like a Diamond Parade. His shining example of generosity, compassion, and unwavering dedication to making our community a better place serves as an inspiration to us all.
So please join me in celebrating Darwin Scherba, a true luminary in our midst, as we embark on a SummerFest filled with joy, unity, and the spirit of giving back. Let us follow his lead and continue to shine bright like diamonds, illuminating the path towards a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
 
Congratulations, Darwin!

Khloe is currently carrying an impressive GPA of 4.086, placing her fourth in the esteemed class of 2024 at FHS. Her commitment to academic excellence is evident in her consistent performance and dedication to her studies.

Family plays a significant role in Khloe's life. She is the daughter of Mark and Kari Burba and has siblings named Kate, Kelsea, Mack, Margo, and Maddox Burba. 

In her leisure time, Khloe enjoys engaging in various hobbies, including reading, running, playing sports with her sibling Maddox, exploring botany, and even tackling her homework with enthusiasm.

Khloe's involvement in extracurricular activities is extensive and speaks volumes about her leadership abilities and commitment to service. She holds positions such as Secretary of the Rotary Club, Secretary of the National Honor Society, Treasurer of the Science Honor Society, and is a member of Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society, Rho Kappa Honor Society, and Wellness Club.

Furthermore, Khloe actively participates in volunteer work, dedicating her time to initiatives such as running the coffee bar at her church, assisting at the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan, contributing to the Church Food Pantry distribution, and engaging in various community service projects through organizations like S'mores and Blanket Making for Hurley. Her involvement in activities such as building bunk beds for Sleep in Heavenly Peace through Rotary Interact and supporting the Red Cross Blood Drive through NHS demonstrates her commitment to making a positive impact in her community.

While Khloe is not currently employed, she previously worked at Bongiorno's, where she gained valuable experience and developed essential skills.

Athletics also play a significant role in Khloe's life, as she has been a member of the Varsity Cross Country team for four years and the Track team for three years, showcasing her dedication and determination on the field.

Looking ahead, Khloe has ambitious plans for her future. She aspires to attend Lipscomb University in Nashville, TN, to study Nutrition with the goal of becoming a Dietician. Additionally, she dreams of embarking on numerous travels to broaden her horizons and explore new cultures.

When reflecting on her time at FHS, Khloe fondly recalls her experiences in Cross Country and Track, particularly the early morning meets and the camaraderie among her teammates. She also cherishes the time spent working in Ms. Lord's office, which has undoubtedly enriched her high school journey.

Finally, Khloe has chosen Bread for Life as her preferred charity for donation, inspired by her participation in a road race where she learned about the organization's impactful work.

In summary, Khloe Burba is a dedicated student, compassionate volunteer, and talented athlete who embodies the spirit of leadership and service. Her contributions to the FHS community are commendable, and I have no doubt that she will continue to excel in all her future endeavors.

Lily Ethington, a senior at FHS, stands as an epitome of academic excellence and community engagement, earning her the title of February Rotary Student of the Month. With a commendable GPA of 3.96, she ranks 24th in a class known for its exceptional talent and intellect.

Born to Justin and Jennifer Ethington, Lily cherishes her family deeply. Alongside her loving parents, she shares her life with a younger sister, Hannah, who is in the 10th grade, and an older brother, Jakob, who graduated in 2022. Lily's upbringing reflects a strong foundation of familial support and encouragement.

Lily's interests span a wide spectrum, from the tranquility of reading to the creative outlet of playing guitar and the invigorating pursuit of running. Her involvement in various clubs such as Rotary Club, Madrigals, Beta Choir, Key Club, National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society, and Rho Kappa Honor Society highlights her dedication to both academic and extracurricular excellence.

Driven by a passion for giving back, Lily actively engages in volunteer work, contributing her time and efforts to initiatives like S’mores, blanket-making for Hurley, and volunteering at the ECC and the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan. Additionally, her participation in events like the Crim Rotary Mile underscores her commitment to community betterment.

Currently dual-enrolled through the University of Michigan Flint, Lily envisions a future in the field of nursing. Her ambition to become a nurse practitioner, specializing in dermatology or psychology, reflects her desire to make a meaningful impact in healthcare. Lily's dedication to her academic pursuits and career goals is commendable, showcasing her determination to excel in her chosen path.

Among her cherished memories at FHS, Lily fondly recalls her experience during this year's collage, where she had the honor of holding the Taylor Swift 2024 flag, symbolizing her fondness for memorable moments shared with her peers. Furthermore, her admiration for Mr. Nate Degner, her middle school choir teacher, exemplifies the profound impact educators can have on their students' lives. Lily acknowledges Mr. Degner's ability to make learning enjoyable and his genuine care for his students as instrumental in shaping her academic journey.

In alignment with her passion for nursing and healthcare, Lily has chosen to support the American Nurses Foundation through her donation. Her contribution reflects her dedication to assisting nurses facing various challenges within the healthcare system, particularly focusing on mental health issues.

In the 15-year history of the Rotary Club of Flushing’s Service Above Self Award, few recipients have given more of themselves than this year’s nominee, Bob Coe. 
Coe, a retired General Motors executive received his recognition at a Rotary Club meeting on Tuesday, February 6th.  The award itself honors a member of the Flushing community for exemplary service and reflects the Rotary International motto of “Service Above Self”. 
Coe is the Mercy Team Leader at Flushing Community Church of the Nazarene.  Coe leads a team of devoted Christians that address food and clothing needs in the Flushing community and the City of Flint. The primary groups that the Mercy Team assists are Eastside Mission in Flint, Life Challenge, Genesee County Mental Health Court and the Flushing Christian Outreach Center.  Coe and the Mercy Team work closely with Flushing Community Schools to identify needs within our school district.  Bread for Life is a program that provides meals on weekends for chronically hungry children.  The Mercy Team is planning 5 mobile food distribution dates this year where they coordinate shipments of food from the Food Bank of Eastern MI.  The Mercy Team also provides Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter “Boxed Dinners” for families in the Flushing community. 
Bob and his wife Carol have been Flushing residents since 1974.
The Rotary Club of Flushing teamed up the West Flint Optimist Club and Signs by Crannie to build 46 beds for the Sleep in Heavenly Peace organization.  "Build Day" took place on Saturday. February 3rd at Signs by Crannie warehouse in Flint.  Dan Crannie is a Flint Rotarian and also a member of the West Flint Optimist Club.    
 
Kate Burba, a senior at FHS, distinguishes herself with a GPA of 4.017, placing her 13th in the class of 2024. Born into a bustling household with parents Mark and Kari, alongside siblings Khloe, Kelsea, Mack, Margo, and Maddox, Kate shares a triplet bond with Khloe and Kelsea. Embracing a diverse range of interests, Kate finds solace in reading, running, playing the cello, and practicing yoga. Her active involvement in numerous clubs, including Rotary Club, Key Club, and National Honor Society, reflects her commitment to service and leadership. From volunteering with church groups to spearheading service projects, Kate's dedication to her community shines through. Balancing her academic pursuits with work experiences at Mancino's Pizza and Grinders and Johnny's Pour House, Kate's resilience is further evident in her athletic endeavors in Cross Country and Track. As she prepares to embark on her college journey at Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, Kate aspires to pursue a career in pediatric psychology. With dreams of traveling South America, running a marathon, and owning three golden retrievers, Kate's zest for life knows no bounds. Reflecting on her high school years, Kate fondly remembers bonding with classmates on field trips, particularly a memorable visit to the zoo. Her admiration for teacher Tanya Peet underscores the impact of educators who inspire and support their students. In her commitment to making a difference, Kate chooses to support World Vision, an organization dedicated to providing clean water and education accessibility for those in poverty worldwide.
 
Lauren Popovits, a senior at FHS, epitomizes academic excellence with her impressive 4.004 GPA, ranking 18th in her class, poised to graduate with high honors on May 22nd. Amidst tackling three AP classes, her dedication extends beyond academics. With parents John and Chrissy, both FCS employees, and siblings Evelyn and Ben, Lauren finds joy in various pursuits, from her love of robotics and 3D printing to her involvement in clubs like Rotary Interact and National Honor Society. Her altruism shines through extensive volunteer work, balancing it all with her roles as a private tutor and occasional house and dog sitter. Although sports take a backseat to her passion for robotics, her future at Kettering University, double majoring in Electrical and Computer Engineering, promises to be bright. Lauren's fondest memories at FHS include leading her team to victory at the State Robotics Tournament and the guidance of her favorite teacher, Mr. Ian Thomas, who instilled in her the confidence to speak and lead effectively. With aspirations to travel and start a family, Lauren's generosity extends even further with a $100 donation to the Judson Center, reflecting her commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
 
Andrew Tunnicliff, a distinguished senior at FHS, boasts an impressive 4.074 GPA, securing the 6th rank in his class and is set to graduate with high honors on May 22nd. Supported by his parents, Steve and Melissa, alongside siblings Braeden and Allyson, Andrew's journey is marked by both academic prowess and a fervent love for sports. Engaging in activities like fishing and closely following professional athletes, Andrew's passion for sports extends to his roles on the Varsity Basketball and Football teams. Beyond athletics, Andrew's leadership shines through his involvement in various clubs, notably serving as the Rotary Interact Co-President and holding positions in the National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Science National Honor Society, and Student Council. Additionally, Andrew's commitment to community service is evident through his volunteer work with organizations such as SMORES and the Food Bank. While he doesn't currently hold a job, his dedication to his community is further highlighted by his position on the Flushing Community Schools Board of Education as the student representative. With a rich sports background, including multiple years in Varsity Track and Cross Country, Andrew's future plans include studying Physical Therapy, with potential aspirations for international studies. Reflecting on his high school years, Andrew cherishes memories like winning the Metro League 4x800m Relay and being elected as the President of the Class of 2024. His admiration for teacher Dave McGregor underscores his appreciation for educators who instill both knowledge and life lessons. In his commitment to advocacy, Andrew chooses to support The ARC, a Disability Rights Organization, advocating for inclusivity and equal rights.
 
Jade LaGore, a standout senior at FHS, boasts a remarkable 4.051 GPA, holding the 8th rank in her class and slated to graduate with high honors on May 22nd. Supported by her parents, Joel and Sonya, and with an older sister, Jaren, who also graduated from FHS, Jade's academic success is complemented by her passion for music and sports. A talented violinist, Jade is a member of various prestigious musical ensembles, including a Dort Honors String Quartet and The Flint Youth Symphony Orchestra, showcasing her dedication to her craft. Additionally, her involvement in an all-girl band in Tennessee highlights her versatility as a musician. Outside of music, Jade finds joy in playing tennis and actively participates in clubs like Rotary Interact, National Honor Society, and Student Council. Her commitment to community service is evident through her volunteer work with organizations such as SMORES and the Food Bank, as well as her involvement in the worship team at Flushing Community Church. With work experience ranging from musical gigs to an internship at OLV Investment Group, Jade's future plans include double majoring in violin performance and business finance, with aspirations to attend U of M Ann Arbor or the New England Conservatory. Reflecting on her high school experience, Jade cherishes memories like being on the Homecoming Court and participating in the parade. Her admiration for teacher Lauren Quigley underscores the impact of educators who foster meaningful relationships and inspire confidence in their students. In her commitment to giving back, Jade chooses to support Bread for Life, exemplifying her dedication to making a positive impact on her community.
 
The Flushing High School (FHS) Rotary Interact Club continued the tradition of making blankets for children in the Hurley Hospital
pediatric department. Children who are in the hospital are given a blanket that they can take home with them upon their release from the hospital.
Hurley Hospital nurses have shared with the Interact Club the joy and comfort children have received from the blankets.
 
The FHS Rotary Interact Club is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Flushing since its chartering in 2009. Both clubs enjoy working together on a number of projects. The FHS staff sponsor for the Interact Club is Flushing Rotarian and high school Assistant Principal, Kevin Foltz. Many thanks to the Interact Club for your dedication to Service-Above-Self.