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Happy Birthday Eric Gasper
Mar. 23, 2026
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Happy Birthday Ginny Myers
Apr. 01, 2026
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Happy Birthday Lisa Demankowski
Apr. 11, 2026
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2026 Rotary Club of Flushing Spring Craft Fair
Flushing Middle SchoolApr. 11, 2026
9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Rotary Club of Flushing, Michigan
Flushing, MI 48433
United States of America



On February 17, 2026, Shalonda Griffin, Community Relations Coordinator for the Michigan Gift of Life program covering Genesee and Saginaw counties, spoke to the Rotary Club of Flushing about the vital work her organization does to save and improve lives.
Griffin shared how Gift of Life Michigan, a nonprofit organ and tissue donation program, honors life through donation by partnering with hospitals, transplant centers, families, and communities across the state. The program manages the Michigan Organ Donor Registry and educates the public on organ, eye, and tissue donation — dispelling common myths and encouraging informed decisions that lead to lifesaving outcomes.
During her presentation, Griffin emphasized the impact that donor registration can have on individuals waiting for transplants. She highlighted that every additional registration brings hope to someone on a waiting list, and that one organ donor alone can save multiple lives. Through outreach, education, and community partnerships, Gift of Life Michigan strives to increase awareness and foster conversations about donation throughout Genesee and Saginaw counties and beyond.

Flushing High School is proud to recognize senior Keira Dumas-Knieper as a Rotary Student of the Month.
Keira currently carries an outstanding 4.160 GPA, ranks number one in the Class of 2026, and will graduate this spring with high honors. The daughter of Jennie Dumas and Dennis Knieper, she has distinguished herself not only through academic excellence, but through leadership, service, and involvement across the school community.
Her list of activities reflects both dedication and versatility. Keira is an active member of Rotary Interact Club, National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Rho Kappa, Key Club International, Quiz Bowl, International Club, Pay it Forward Club, Mock Trial, Student Leadership Organization, Varsity Club, and Girl Scouts. She also performs in Orchestra, Jazz Band, and Pep Band, and recently served as saxophonist in the Pit Orchestra for the school production of Mean Girls.
In athletics, Keira is a four year member of the Girls’ Varsity Tennis team, a former Freshman Volleyball player, and the Boys’ Tennis team manager. Outside of school, she trains in both Taekwondo and Jiu Jitsu.
Service is central to Keira’s character. She has volunteered through SMORES, Candlewalk, MLK Day of Service, Elms Lock In, and local initiatives including the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan and North End Soup Kitchen. She has organized drives, made blankets for animals, provided free math tutoring, and raised 3,000 dollars for Children’s Miracle Network. She also works as a private tutor.
This fall, Keira will attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology after being accepted in the first round of applicants. She plans to study chemical engineering. Her future goals include becoming fluent in Spanish, traveling abroad, watching a NASA rocket launch, conducting research internationally, and continuing to challenge herself academically and personally.
When asked about her favorite memory at FHS, Keira recalls performing hands on AP Chemistry experiments for elementary students during Halloween, including the iodine clock reaction and elephant toothpaste demonstrations. She credits math teacher Karen Sleno as a major influence, noting her constant support and ability to challenge students to apply math in meaningful, real world ways.
Keira Dumas-Knieper represents the very best of Flushing High School. Her commitment to scholarship, leadership, and service makes her a deserving Rotary Student of the Month.
Pictured left to right: Dean Ebert, Jennie Dumas, Keira Dumas-Knieper, Karen Sleno, and Kevin Foltz

The Rotary Club of Flushing recognized Billy Waire this morning as the Student of the Month for September.
Flushing High School senior Billy Waire is wrapping up his final year with an impressive 3.44 GPA and hopes to graduate this spring with honors.
Billy is the son of Bill Waire Jr. and Stephanie Bradshaw and has two siblings.
When he’s not focused on academics, Billy enjoys figure painting, reading, learning, hiking, music, and spending time with friends. He is heavily involved in school activities, participating in Rotary Interact, Investment & Financial Literacy, Mock Trial & Debate, Club Unity, Flushing Youth Alive-Christian Club, Blueberry Ambassadors, Pay It Forward, International Club, and Key Club. He also hopes to launch a Quiz Bowl team before graduation.
Billy is passionate about giving back to the community, volunteering for a variety of events and organizations, including SMORES, Candlewalk, the Crim Rotary Mile, Senior Center’s Valentine Lunch-in, Adopt-A-Highway, the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan, FHS Theater set builds, and the Go Gold for the Kids 5K, among others.
Outside of school, Billy works at Creative Water Works as an irrigation technician, where he builds custom water features, like waterfalls, and keeps sprinklers running smoothly.
He also enjoys skeet shooting as his sport of choice.
Looking ahead, Billy plans to attend Madonna University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in forensic science. His bucket list includes traveling to Switzerland, buying a home with a dedicated office, becoming fluent in another language, taking a road trip on Route 66, traveling more, getting a DNA test, and continually striving to be the smartest version of himself.
When asked about his favorite memory at FHS, Billy smiled and said, “My first (and last) detention.”
Billy credits much of his academic inspiration to his favorite teacher, Mrs. Amy Kleinedler, explaining:
“Mrs. Kleinedler is easily my favorite teacher. She’s always there for me and the rest of her students, whether it’s before, during, or after class. She talks to us like we’re equals, she actually listens and respects our opinions. Even when I wasn't having the best day I always looked forward to her class. Chemistry was never boring in her class. She is someone I look up to and strive to be like in the future. Because of her, I fell in love with chemistry and think that it may be something I want to do in the future—such as forensic chemistry.”


🌟 A big thank you to Brian Birchmeier and Robert Gunn from the Civil Air Patrol for their engaging and informative presentation at this morning’s Flushing Rotary Club meeting!
We appreciated the opportunity to learn more about the incredible work being done through the Flint Local Composite Squadron, part of the Michigan Wing of the Civil Air Patrol. From emergency services and search & rescue missions to youth cadet programs and aerospace education, it’s inspiring to hear about how this organization continues to serve our communities and develop the next generation of leaders.
👏 Thank you again, Brian and Robert, for your time and dedication. We’re grateful for all you do!
#FlushingRotary #CivilAirPatrol #FlintCompositeSquadron #ServiceAboveSelf #MichiganWingCAP

🌟 Introducing Our New Rotary Club of Flushing President – Dr. Dean Ebert! 🌟
Please join us in welcoming Dr. Dean Ebert as the new President of the Rotary Club of Flushing! We are thrilled to have him take the helm for the 2025-2026 Rotary year. Dr. Ebert brings with him a wealth of experience, leadership, and a true heart for service — qualities that perfectly align with Rotary’s mission of "Service Above Self."
Under his guidance, we look forward to another impactful year filled with meaningful community service projects, strong fellowship, and continued dedication to making a difference both locally and beyond. Here's to a year of growth, purpose, and positive change under Dr. Ebert’s leadership! 🙌
#RotaryClubOfFlushing #ServiceAboveSelf #LeadershipInAction #FlushingMI #RotaryPresident2025


Pictured left to right: Kevin Foltz, Flushing HS Principal and Flushing Rotarian, Nicole Lord, Flushing HS Teacher, Mackenzie Thompson, March Student of the Month and Mackenzie's mom, Jeanette Thompson.
📣 March Student of the Month Spotlight! 🌟
Join us in congratulating Mackenzie Thompson, a standout senior at Flushing High School and our March Student of the Month! 🎉
With an impressive GPA of 3.995 and ranked 18th in her class, Mackenzie is on track to graduate this May with High Honors. She’s also part of the FREC (Flushing Raider Early College) program and plans to continue her studies at Michigan State University, where she hopes to earn her Bachelor’s in Nursing and pursue a career as a pediatric oncology nurse. 💚🎓
Mackenzie is a true role model—active in Wellness Club, National Honor Society, and Rho Kappa (Social Studies Honor Society). She has a heart for service, volunteering with: ✨ Elementary school programs
✨ Serenity House women’s shelter
✨ Camp Quality’s Childhood Cancer Race
✨ The Gold Out Football Game
✨ Leukemia & Lymphoma Society — where she led Team Robby, raising over $16,000! 🧡
Outside of academics and service, Mackenzie enjoys spending time outdoors—kayaking, biking, walking, and baking delicious chocolate chip cookies. 🍪 She also loves getting creative with arts and crafts. This spring, she’s stepping onto the court to play tennis for the first time! 🎾
She shares her journey with her biggest supporter—her mom, Jeanette Thompson. 💕
✨ Favorite Memory at FHS: The Gold Out Football Game
✨ Favorite Teacher: Ms. Lord – for her positive energy and unwavering support, even while maintaining high standards.
We are so proud of everything Mackenzie has accomplished and can’t wait to see all that she will do next. 💫
Congratulations, Mackenzie! You are a true example of Raider excellence! 👏 #StudentOfTheMonth #FlushingPride #RaiderStrong
📢 Exciting News for Flushing Students! 🎓✨
The Rotary Club of Flushing is awarding three $1,500 scholarships to deserving students—and the time to apply is NOW!
If you're a student looking for support in achieving your educational goals, don’t miss this opportunity. Apply today at www.cfgf.org!
📅 Deadline approaching—don’t wait!
💰 Three $1,500 scholarships available
📍 Apply now: www.cfgf.org
Spread the word and tag a student who should apply! 🙌 #FlushingRotary #ScholarshipOpportunity #InvestInTheFuture


Pictured left to right: Kevin Foltz, Vera Jenkins (mom), Ariel Jenkins, and Yvonne Fil (most influential teacher).
🌟 Congratulations to our February Rotary Student of the Month: Ariel Jenkins! 🌟
Ariel, a senior at Flushing High School, is an outstanding student with a 3.948 GPA and will graduate this May with High Honors. She is the daughter of Vera Jenkins and is an only child.
🎨 Hobbies & Interests:
Ariel is a talented AP Art student who loves drawing, sewing (adding unique touches like frills to sweaters), and caring for her beloved dog, Roxy (a Maltese/Yorkie mix).
📚 Clubs & Activities:
She is actively involved in KEY Club (Kiwanis), National Art Honor Society, National Honor Society, Rho Kappa, and recently joined the Rotary Interact Club after participating in the MLK Day of Service at Dort Event Center.
💖 Volunteer Work:
Ariel gives back to her community through service at the Food Bank of Eastern MI, Springview Elementary’s Express Christmas Program, and by face painting at Homecoming. She also leads as head of the youth usher board at Evergreen Missionary Baptist Church in Flint.
🏆 Academic Achievements:
While not involved in sports, Ariel is a proud Flint Metro League Math & Science 2023 1st Place winner in Geophysical Science.
🎓 College & Career Goals:
Currently enrolled in FREC (Flushing Raider Early College), Ariel aims to complete her associate’s degree while in high school. She plans to transfer to U of M Ann Arbor or Ferris State University to pursue architecture or drafting.
💭 Future Plans:
Aside from her academic and career ambitions, Ariel looks forward to visiting her grandparents more.
💡 Favorite Memory at FHS:
Being selected for the National Art Honor Society and excelling in Algebra 2 through RVA in 9th grade.
🍎 Most Influential Teacher:
Ariel credits Mrs. Fil for her patience, strong communication, and caring nature, which have made a lasting impact on her.
👏 Join us in celebrating Ariel’s achievements and bright future ahead! 🎉✨ #RotaryStudentOfTheMonth #FlushingProud #FutureArchitect


🎉 Congratulations to our Rotary Student of the Month: Drew Schmidt! 🎉
Drew is a senior at Flushing High School, maintaining an impressive 3.817 GPA, and is set to graduate with high honors this spring. He is also in his second year at the Genesee Career Institute (GCI), studying in the Aviation Academy.
Drew is the proud son of Andrew and Brandi Schmidt and has an older sister, Ella (FHS Class of 2022), who was also a recipient of this award and a dedicated member of the Rotary Interact Club.
His passions include sports, traveling, fishing, and hunting. Drew has been actively involved in numerous clubs, including serving as the President of the FHS Rotary Interact Club, as well as being a member of the National Honor Society and the Varsity Club.
Drew’s commitment to giving back to his community is evident through his volunteer work with Candle Walk Set-up, Adopt-a-Highway, blanket making for Hurley Medical Center, and more. He also volunteered at the Flushing Youth Sports Camp this past summer!
Athletically, Drew has been a standout in tennis and basketball. He’s played three years of tennis (two on Varsity), earning 2x first team FML honors and qualifying for the state tournament, and four years of basketball (two on Varsity). Throughout his athletic career, Drew has consistently achieved scholar-athlete status.
Looking ahead, while Drew is officially undecided on his college plans, he’s strongly considering Western Michigan University to pursue his dream of becoming a commercial pilot.
In his free time, Drew has a goal to visit all 30 Major League Baseball ballparks—having already been to 21! He’s also proud to have recently completed visits to all 50 states.
Drew’s favorite memory at FHS is competing at the State Finals for tennis this past weekend, with a close second being the baseball team’s postseason run, winning the Regional Championship this past spring. His favorite teacher is Mr. Thomas, who he admires as a coach and a father figure to all his athletes.
Drew’s dedication to his academics, athletics, and community is truly inspiring. Congratulations, Drew, on this well-deserved honor! 👏
#RotaryStudentOfTheMonth #FlushingPride #FHS



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





