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We’re thrilled to announce Audrey Hammond as our April Rotary Student of the Month! Audrey is a senior at FHS who will be graduating this May with High Honors, holding an impressive 3.98 GPA. She’s also a dedicated Dual Enrollment student through Mott Community College, where she’s taken English, Marketing, and Public Speaking.

Audrey is the daughter of James and Erica Hammond, and she enjoys spending time with friends, working out at the YMCA, and cooking in her free time.

She's an active member of many clubs including:

National Honor Society

Science National Honor Society (Vice President)

Rho Kappa

Mu Alpha Theta

SLO

Rotary Interact

Her volunteer work speaks volumes of her commitment to community service. Audrey has generously given her time to:

Youth Dance Camp at Powers

Pink Out the Rink (Cancer fundraiser during Jr. Firebirds)

Red Cross Blood Drive (with NHS)

Special Olympics

Peer 2 Peer Bowling Event

ECC Turkey Trot

Candlewalk & Harvest Fest

Seymour Elementary Lock-in

East Side Soup Kitchen (with SLO)

Audrey also works at Squeeze the Day and Judy’s School of Dance, where she’s danced for 14 years, competing in ballet, jazz, and contemporary. She began dancing at the age of 3 and continues to shine as a performer.

Future plans? Audrey will be attending Olivet Nazarene University to study Biology, with hopes of earning her master’s in Genetics and becoming a Genetic Counselor. One day, she dreams of moving to Colorado—because it’s fun, beautiful, and home to one of her cousins!

Her favorite FHS memories include football games, Prom, and Homecoming, and her favorite teacher is Ms. Lauren Quigley, who not only inspired her love of science but also shared a special connection through dance.

Congratulations, Audrey! Your passion, dedication, and heart for service inspire us all!

#RotaryStudentOfTheMonth #FutureLeader #fhspride

March Student of the Month

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

2025 Rotary Club of Flushing Scholarship Opportunities

📢 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

February 2025 Student of the Month

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

December Student of the Month

Flushing Rotary Club Student of the Month: Garrison Angliss!

We are proud to recognize Garrison Angliss as the Flushing Rotary Club Student of the Month for December! Garrison is a dedicated senior at Flushing High School (FHS) with an impressive GPA of 3.45 and will be graduating with honors this spring. He is also in his first year at GCI studying Automotive Technology, where he's already laying the foundation for his future career.

Garrison is deeply involved in his community and school. He helped start the Flushing Youth Alive Bible Club at FHS, providing a space for students to connect and grow in faith. Outside of school, he’s volunteered at events like the College Career Fair, Candlewalk, food drives, and has contributed much of his time at his church, The Trinity Assembly of God.

In addition to his volunteer work, Garrison has a wide range of interests, including hunting, fishing, wood carving, and experimenting with his 3D printer. His three pet lizards also enjoy his attention and care.

Garrison has also stayed active through sports, participating in Soccer, Cross-Country, Track (as a pole vaulter), and previously Wrestling and Skeet Shooting. He is known for his strong work ethic, having been employed at Big Johns, Moss Landscaping, and Scratch BBQ.

Looking ahead, Garrison is still exploring career options, including potentially working in auto/plane mechanics or flipping houses as a side hustle. His future plans also include skydiving and parachuting—true to his adventurous spirit!

Garrison's favorite memory of FHS is the opportunity to help the community, especially after the challenging Covid-19 years. His favorite teacher is Mr. Bob Wiedyk, his Woodshop teacher, who has inspired his love for hands-on learning.

We are excited to see all that Garrison will accomplish in the future and are proud to have him as a part of our community. Congratulations, Garrison, on being named Flushing Rotary Club Student of the Month!

Pictured left to right: Teacher, Mr. Bob Wiedyk, Garrison's mother and father, Garrison, and Flushing High School Principal and Rotarian, Mr. Kevin Foltz.

October Student of the Month: Drew Schmidt!

🎉 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

Rotarians Gather for a Social Event at Kathy's 126!

What an incredible evening with the Flushing Rotary Club last night! Our members gathered at Kathy’s 126 in Flushing for a night filled with laughter, great conversation, and delicious food. It was wonderful to share such a fun and memorable time together. A big thank you to everyone who came out and made it special! #FlushingRotary #CommunityConnections #GoodTimes

Brandi Schmidt - Little Pink Houses of Hope

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.

#FlushingRotary #LittlePinkHousesOfHope #BreastCancerSupport #RotaryInternational #TogetherWeCan

Rotarians in Action at Harvest Fest

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 September Student of the Month - Hana Allam!

🎉 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

Flushing Rotary Club Welcomes District Governor, Katherine Hahn!

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

Flushing Rotary Club Presents Fundraising Check to Flushing Community Schools

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

Kitsune Defense of Flushing presents to the Flushing Rotary Club

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.

#RotaryClub #KitsuneDefense #NonprofitSelfDefenseSchool #PersonalPower #CommunitySupport #Gratitude

Rotary Club of Flushing welcomes Ed Benning, MTA CEO

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.

#Community #MassTransportation #EdBenning #MillageRenewal #InsightfulSpeaker #Gratitude

Amber Taylor - Back to the Bricks!

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!

#FlushingRotary #BacktotheBricks #CommunityEvents #CarEnthusiasts

Paul Harris Award Given

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!

#FlushingRotary #PaulHarrisAward #CommunitySupport

Passing of the Gavel

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!

Flushing Rotary Makes History with First Ever Vocational Scholarship!

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.

Two $1,000 Rotary Scholarship Recipients Awarded

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.

A Night at the Birch Run Speedway!

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!

Flushing Chamber of Commerce Recognizes and Awards Rotarian Darwin Scherba with the inaugural parade Grand Marshal spot for 2024

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!

April Rotary Student of the Month: Khloe Burba

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.

February Rotary Student of the Month: Lily Ethington

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.

Bob Coe receives Flushing Rotary Club’s Service Above Self Award

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 6^th. 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.

Sleep in Heavenly Peace

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.