April 2024
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Upcoming Events
Club Executives & Directors
President
President Elect
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Past President
Vocational Service
International Service
Rotary Foundation
Membership
Public Relations
Interact Liaison
Sergeant-at-Arms
Executive Secretary / Director
Speakers
Steve Fine
Apr 23, 2024
Zoom Presentation For Rotarians by a Rotarian
No Morning Meeting/Evening social at Kathy's
Apr 30, 2024
Evening Social
Club Assembly
May 07, 2024
Scott Rose
May 14, 2024
Construction Trades Instruction Genesee Career Institute
Laura Fulco - Sam's Club
May 21, 2024
Health & Wellness Benefits, VAP Program
Brooke Summers
May 28, 2024
Food Bank of Eastern Meeting
Club Assembly
Jun 04, 2024
Club Information
Flushing

Rotary Club of Flushing, Michigan

We meet In Person
Tuesdays at 7:15 AM
Valley's Breakfast and Bistro
1072 S Elms Rd.
Flint, MI 48532
United States of America
Home Page Stories

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.

Hannah Boike

Flushing High School senior Hannah Boike has been named the Rotary Club of Flushing’s Student of the Month for May.

Boike, who graduated with the Class of 2022 yesterday, finished high school as a high honors student with a 4.031 GPA. She will be attending the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor’s School of Engineering this fall to double major in biomedical engineering and music performance.

Boike was a three-year member of the Rotary Interact Club at FHS and belonged to Mu Alpha Theta, the Science National Honor Society, the National Honor Society, Student Council (vice president), Beta Chi Theta choir and Madrigals (president). She sang with the Flushing High School choir and performed at many FHS concerts and events.

Additionally, Boike was awarded the Jan Liepmann Vocal Music Scholarship and received the Women of Engineering Merit Award. She was also part of the MSVMA State Honors Choir three years in a row and All State Honors Choir in her senior year.

Music is likewise a primary focus for Boike outside of school. She has composed and performed over 30 songs and plays various instruments, including the guitar, piano and ukulele. She hopes to release her own music someday on a streaming platform.

Boike dedicated time to serving with the NHS/Red Cross Blood Drive, Student Council’s Food Can Drive and the Rotary Mile Water Station at the Crim Festival of Races. As a Rotary Interact student, she also prepared s’mores at the Flushing Candlewalk, made blankets for Hurley Medical Center and volunteered at the Rotary Club’s Area 7 Book Distribution.

Boike said her favorite memories included performing at Flushing High School’s Holiday Collage concert and attending Raider athletic events. Her favorite teacher was Flushing High School choir director Nate Degner, who taught her valuable lessons with music and life in general.

Hannah’s parents are Kim and Jeff Boike, and she has three older siblings: Tyler, Megan and Connor.

(Reprinted courtesy of Ben Gagnon, The Flushing View)

 
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.
 
At Rotary, we are deeply concerned by the escalating loss of life and humanitarian hardship caused by the war in Ukraine. We’re using our deep networks and decades of experience to take swift action in the region.  Find out more about what Rotary is doing and how you can support relief efforts.

The Rotary Foundation has created an official channel for Rotary members and other donors around the world to contribute funds to support relief efforts underway by Rotary districts. The Rotary Foundation has designated the Disaster Response Fund as the main avenue for this.

Thanks to the generosity of Rotary members and others, as of 18 March, the fund has received more than $3.2 million in contributions. These funds are being distributed to Rotary districts that apply for Disaster Response grants and will be used to provide relief to refugees or other victims of the crisis, including items such as water, food, shelter, medicine, and clothing. 

Learn more about the fund

DONATE NOW

 

Ella Schmidt

Flushing High School senior Ella Schmidt has been named as the Flushing Rotary Student of the Month for February.

Schmidt, who will graduate with high honors this spring, is carrying a 3.6-plus GPA. She is involved with the Rotary Interact Club, the National Honor Society, and the Future Farmers of America (FFA), where she holds the position of Sentinel.

Through Rotary Interact, Schmidt volunteered to make s’mores at the Flushing Candlewalk and participated in blanket making for Hurley Medical Center, a Very Special Art Day, the Huge Indoor Garage Sale and Area 7 Literacy book delivery to Flushing Middle School. She has also volunteered her time at a local daycare, volunteered at the Burton Police Department and worked at the soup kitchen through NHS.

Schmidt has played three years of varsity tennis at Flushing High School and will be entering her fourth year of tennis overall this spring. One of her favorite FHS memories is competing at the Flint Metro League Championships at the Midland Tennis Club in her junior year.

Schmidt’s main hobby involves horse-riding and showing horses, especially her own horse named George. Moving forward, her vision is to have a side hustle as a horse trainer/breeder for the horse show circuit.

Schmidt plans to study crop and soil sciences at Michigan State University but she’s also interested in becoming a Michigan State Trooper and pursuing something in the criminal justice field. She currently works at the Flint Farmers Market Apple Cart and is a farmhand at Xanadu Farms.

Schmidt credits Skye McWilliams and Tracey Groom from Genesee Career Institute (GCI) for introducing her to a variety of career fields related to agriculture. She’s especially thankful to her GCI instructors for pushing her to do things outside of her comfort zone through the agricultural program and giving her the total FFA experience, like showing pigs and raising chickens.

Schmidt also enjoys traveling. In fact, her family has set a goal of visiting all 50 states (Alaska this June will be their 50th state). She is the daughter of Andrew and Brandi Schmidt, and her brother Drew is a ninth grader in the Flushing School District.

(Article courtesy of Ben Gagnon, The View Newspaper Group, Inc.)

Traci Koch, RN, the Flushing Community Schools Nurse, was awarded the 2022 Rotary Club of Flushing's "Service Above Self" award.  This award recognizes a member of the Flushing community for exemplary service to the community, thereby reflecting the Rotary motto of "Service Above Self."
 
Employed by the Flushing Community Schools as the School Nurse for 26 years, Traci Koch, RN, provides many essential health services within the schools. In recognizing Mrs. Koch for her outstanding service by naming her Flushing Community Schools Employee of the Year, the FCS stated that "While we have known since she was hired in 1996 just how blessed we are to have Traci as our school nurse, her position has certainly been thrust into the spotlight over the last two years.  She is an absolute pro, as knowledgeable and as helpful as can be, and has taken on the added responsibilities in stride.  She is instrumental in helping us decipher and interpret guidance from the health department and has been the absolute go-to for all COVID activity.  She is our main conduit to the Genesee County Health Department for all things COVID related.  She has done all of this while maintaining all of her regular nurse responsibilities in support of all our kids and buildings.  Traci is pulled in so many different directions daily, and does it with an unmatched level of professionalism, expertise, patience, and thoroughness.  She is incredibly humble, quick to give so much credit to our teams in the buildings that are helping immensely every day.”   
 
Flushing Schools Deputy Superintendent Andrew Schmidt says "Traci was hired by Flushing Community Schools in 1996 (26 years ago).  For a period of years, she worked for both Flushing and Carman-Ainsworth Schools but has worked full time in Flushing for the past 5-6 years.  As a school nurse, Traci is responsible for the health, safety, and well-being of 4,100 students and over 500 staff located at 7 different buildings. Traci floats between buildings and serves students with heart conditions, seizures, severe allergies, and other chronic health conditions. She trains the medical emergency response teams at each building for CPR, first aid, AED, and she is an exceptional teacher.  In addition to providing exceptional care to our students with increasing medical needs, our offices have become pharmacies.  The number of medications being administered is staggering and Traci helps manage all of that with our secretaries and principals.”
 
Finally, according to Flushing Rotary Service Above Self Award coordinator Darwin Scherba “Personally, I’ve had the pleasure of working directly with Traci for a little over a year.  I can tell you this about Traci, no matter what obstacle is thrown her way, she does not panic, she keeps her cool, she does whatever it takes to get the job done.  She has earned the respect of our students, staff, and parents in our district.  She puts ‘Service Above Self’ into every decision that she makes.  And every decision is made for the health and safety of our students, staff and the Flushing Community.  I cannot think of anybody that is more deserving of this year’s Rotary Service Above Self award than Traci Koch.” 
 
The Rotary Club of Flushing is pleased to award its 2022 "Service Above Self" award to Traci Koch, RN, Flushing Community Schools Nurse, for her outstanding service to the students and staff of the Flushing Schools, and to the larger Flushing community as a whole.
Pictured (L-R): Andrew Schmidt, John Gault, Darwin Scherba and Matt Catlin.
 
The Rotary Club of Flushing has installed a new Little Free Library book dispensary in Cornwell Park in downtown Flushing at the SW intersection of Cherry and Main streets.   The Little Free Library will provide books free of charge for individuals to use on a 'take a book, leave a book exchange basis.'  The inaugural books are being provided by the Rotary Club of Flushing as a part of its literacy program and are primarily intended for grades K-7.  The Flushing Rotary Little Free Library is a member of the worldwide Litte Free Library network (www.littlefreelibrary.org) of over 100,000 locations worldwide.  The Rotary Club of Flushing is pleased to be able to provide this resource to the Flushing community to promote literacy.