Stories

West Bloomfield Rotary Club's Incredible Impact on the Community

Rotary Day of Service w/ RI President Jennifer Jones and More!

RI President Jennifer Jones, RI President-Elect Stephanie Urchick, Rotary Foundation Trustee Dean Rohrs, Rotary VP Valarie Wafer, Rotary Aide to President-Elect Tom Gump, Zones 28 & 32 Director Drew Kessler and Rotary Zones 28 & 32 Director-Elect Chris Etienne will all be joining in person for a day of service!

It's going to be a fabulous weekend and we'll have so much personal time with each of the RI leaders.

Saturday, June 10th Service Projects with our Leadership 9:00am-Noon

West Bloomfield Laker Mulch Cleanup; Phase 2 Registration:

https://rotary6380.org/event/1b-wb-hills-tree-planting-phase-2/

Install log steps into the hill at the end of the trail where we stopped in phase 1.
Plant two BUR OAK and two TULIP POPLAR. Locations for planting will be decided by WBHS Earth Club.
Continue woodchipping the trail down the hill and along the lakeside trail as permiTed by West Bloomfield Township Environmental Dept.
Volunteers will be asked to bring a wheelbarrow and rake

The collaboration begins on Friday evening June 9th at 5:30 with a dinner; Then on June 10th, we start the morning with 3 different service projects, culminating in the evening with a Leadership in Rotary panel and dinner. Finally, on Sunday, June 11th, will have breakfast together and bid farewell. Each event registration is separate, We need an accurate count for each section.

We've reserved a block of rooms at the Embassy Suites in Troy for your convenience. If you are interested in staying there, please click on the link below to reserve and get the D6380 Discount.

Your link is: https://bit.ly/41WzeLW

Registration Links for our event:

Friday, June 9th with a dinner at the formerly known Bank of America Building, W. Big Beaver Road, Troy . Register for the dinner (No Charge) : https://rotary6380.org/event/dinner-networking-with-ri-leaders/
Saturday, June 10th Leadership Panel and Dinner ($65/per person). Register: https://rotary6380.org/event/copy-of-dinner-networking-with-ri-leaders/
Sunday, June 11th Breakfast; Register: https://rotary6380.org/event/sunday-brunch-with-rotary-leaders/

Any Questions can be directed to Roma Murthy (romamurthy6380@gmail.com)

WBHS Nature Cleanup

Putt for Polio

Polio

A prehistoric disease resulting in Paralysis and/or death.

1955 Polio vaccine becomes available.

1988 Rotary International becomes a founding partner of

Global Polio Eradication Initiative

2020 Polio nears extinction.

BUT

Are we still committed to extinction?

100% of people worldwide must be vaccinated.

You can help show your commitment by joining the fun of

PUTT FOR POLIO

Show your determination by inviting others to join the fun of

PUTT FOR POLIO

Donations

$10 to be a spectator.

$25 to enter the putting competition.

$75 and up to be recognized as a sponsor.

2023 WEST BLOOMFIELD ROTARY BENEFIT CONCERT

Featuring America's Got Talent and International Opera Star, Sean Panikkar and his talented family. They will share an evening of fantastic, stress relieving music. There will also be a silent auction to benefit our community through programs that strengthen mental health issues. Rotarians volunteer at the Haven in Pontiac, mentor STRIVE scholarship winners at West Bloomfield High School, promote education and Food Security programs such as Blessings in a Backpack, Meals on Wheels, and Thanksgiving Turkey dinners. Tickets are $75 each and can be purchased at Rotary Website (see link below). The performance will be at the Steinway Music Studio located at 2700 E. West Maple in Commerce Twp. Doors open at 6pm. on Thursday, April 27th.. Hors d'oeuvres and beverages will be served during the silent auction.

See Sean Panikkar perform - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y2BWwbnf-gQ

Tickets $75

Make checks payable to : West Bloomfield Area Rotary Foundation

and mail to : PO Box 252264, West Bloomfield, MI 48325

Click here to buy tickets ($75 each) or Donate (any other amount)

if you want to make a payment using Credit Card please send a msg. to westbloomfieldrotary@gmail.com

Interested in being a SPONSOR, please reach out to westbloomfieldrotary@gmail.com

Interested in donating an item for the silent auction, please reach out to westbloomfieldrotary@gmail.com

OMNI Safari Dinner 2022

Join us and help save a child ...

Zambia, Africa is one of the poorest nations in the world. Children are starving, clothed in tattered garments and have no shoes, often left to fend for themselves. A shortage of clean water and proper sanitation also leads to a high death rate.

To help alleviate the suffering, OMNI (Orphan Medical Network International) began providing medical and humanitarian care in 2000. Rotarian Dr. Henry Maicki has been part of the team of doctors, nurses and support personnel traveling annually to provide medical care since 2001. Team members pay their own transportation and lodging.

In 2007, OMNI established an elementary school in the George Community of Ndola. The children receive a nutritious daily meal, health care, shoes, clothing, and mosquito netting in addition to a basic education. Humanitarian care is provided as well.

Safari Dinner Ticket Price: $100

If you cannot attend, please consider giving to this cause:
^$420 will feed, clothe and educate a child for one year.
^$500 will provide training and food for a family.

Any amount is appreciated!

Click here to buy tickets or Donate

West Bloomfield Rotary Speaker Series

West Bloomfield Rotary Visits The Zekelman Holocaust Center

On March 5, 2022, the West Bloomfield Rotary Club along with Rotarians from other clubs and friends visited The Zekelman Holocaust Center in Farmington Hills, MI. It was a moving and educational experience for all who attended.

Interact Day of Peace

Focus On Our Members...

Raman Singh

Our Rotary theme for February is Peace Building and Conflict Resolution. West Bloomfield Rotary Club Member and President of the Interfaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit, Raman Singh, recently aired her views on how core human values can help individuals and communities in their peace building efforts. "The only way that we can heal is to see ourselves in each other. We need to find common values." she observed. "Rotary brings people together who share the value of service."

An Update from Paula Konfara...

November 14, 2021

Dear Rotary Friends,

I am so grateful for all of you. Many have you have sent cards, notes, money and gifts which have touched my heart and eased the burden I have been carrying. As you know, I was diagnosed With Stage 4 Ovarian Cancer. But you know me ……..I refuse to accept the prognosis. Instead, I pray, ask for prayer, believe God, go to recommended treatments —Chemo and Respiratory Therapy—prepare and eat the recommended foods on Gerson’s Cancer Diet and carry on. Most of the time I look and feel far better than I should, although I do nap daily. I do go to hospitals and doctor offices daily, as well as make numerous calls, which are all related to the cancer diagnosis. I retired early and quit or took leave from all my volunteer work including Rotary. Tomorrow, I will be undergoing major surgery, another step on the journey. It will be a long recovery and then more chemo. I do hope to join you at the Christmas party if all goes well. I really miss everyone and I miss being a part of the great work we do. It encourages me to hear all the great things you are doing to improve the world. I can’t wait to work side by side with all of you once again.

Your Fellow Rotarian,

Paula Konfara

TEAM TURKEY IS BACK!!

Help Us Provide Thanksgiving Meals

To Deserving Families

In Oakland And Macomb Counties

Team Turkey 2020

Once again, we're raising money to deliver fully cooked Thanksgiving meals to deserving families in the Oakland and Macomb Counties!

This year, the Rotary Club of West Bloomfield along with the Rotary Clubs of Birmingham, Lakes Area, Sterling Heights and Troy plus the Troy Fire Department and Royal Oak Youth Assistance will feed 200 families.

We want to do what we can to ensure that Thanksgiving is not a time of need for some while the rest of us celebrate a time of plenty.

We Need Your Help...

A $60 donation covers the cost of Thanksgiving dinner for 4 people. Donate here: TEAM TURKEY 2021 or send your check to:
West Bloomfield Area Rotary Foundation
PO Box 252264
West Bloomfield, MI 48325 (Please be sure to specify “Team Turkey 2021” in the memo line of your check.)

You also can volunteer to deliver meals on Thanksgiving morning! Sign up here: TEAM TURKEY DRIVERS. (Please include your phone number on the registration form)

Thank you for remembering those less fortunate by supporting this annual project!

West Bloomfield Area Rotary Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization

Carve a Pumpkin -- Donate a Pie (and more)!

Help raise money for TEAM TURKEY by registering for our Pumpkin Carving Contest!!!

Hal Parish - Saying Farewell To Our Friend

Hal Gwyn Parish

February 17, 1937 - September 7, 2021

OMNI Safari Dinner

Join us and help save a child ...

Safari Dinner Ticket Price: $100

This event is now closed.

If you cannot attend, please consider giving to this cause:
^$360 will feed, clothe and educate a child for one year.
^$500 will provide training and food for a family.

Any amount is appreciated!

Donate here

DG BrendaK "WooWoo" Tipton Visits WB Rotary

"Chief Encouragement Officer" BrendaK "WooWoo" Tipton pictured with President Marlenn Maicki and Past President Dr. Henry Maicki during her official District Governor visit on August 6, 2021. The club received District brochures and a special club banner!

West Bloomfield Interact Students Demonstrate Service Above Self!

The West Bloomfield Interact Club had a busy year despite restrictions on service projects due to the pandemic. Rising to the challenge, students were eager to assist in the ways that they could in order to serve their community and beyond.

Bloomfield Hills Interact President, Rose Mayoras, Playworks Karen Dunham, West Bloomfield Interact President Navya Paingol

and incoming President, Anjali Natarajan.

Official presentation of 150 soccer balls to the Academy of the Americas. Pictured are Mike Neff, Bloomfield Hills Rotary; Principal Brown; Playworks representatives;Rose Mayoras, Bloomfield Hills Interact Club, Navya Paingol and Anjali Natarajan, West Bloomfield Interact Club; Cindy and Jerry Hill, West Bloomfield Rotary Club.

The West Bloomfield Interact Club receiving a Youth Assistance Recognition Award for their volunteer service.

This year, Interact student made cards for special needs students, and nursing home residents, helped with the Bloomfield Hills' Mercy Place clean-up, the West Bloomfield Garlic Mustard Grass clean-up, assisted with Blessings in a Backpack food distribution, donated 150 soccer balls to Academy of the Americas and more.

West Bloomfield Rotarians Honored at Michigan Week Celebration

Rotarians Recognized For Their Volunteerism

Marian Soditch

Marian Soditch was nominated for the Hidden Treasure Award by the West Bloomfield Interact Club. A founding member of the West Bloomfield Rotary Club, Marian also founded the Rotary-sponsored Interact Club in 2010. The Interact Club is open to any youth ages 12 to 18. The group meets monthly to plan and execute service projects in the community and beyond. Unlike most Interact Clubs that are sponsored by Rotary but school-based, the West Bloomfield Interact Club is a community-based and open to students from any area school. Rotary Club members are the advisors. From inception, Marian acted as the advisor, mentor and chief cheerleader for these inspirational young leaders. She participated in their by-monthly Sunday meetings and monthly service projects for 11 years. Additionally, Marian continues as a supportive member of West Bloomfield Rotary club, which she and husband Milton founded in 1998, giving generously to each club service endeavor.

Jaspreet Singh

Jaspreet Singh received the Hidden Treasure Award for his work with the West Bloomfield Rotary STRIVE program. He has chaired the Rotary STRIVE Scholarship committee for the past 3 years. The STRIVE acronym refers to Students Taking a Renewed Interest in the Value of Education. His commitment to WBHS students who need extra encouragement and motivation is evident. Through his leadership, the committee regularly meets with scholars to mentor and assess needs. Jaspreet also assists in other Rotary service projects by generously giving both time and monetary support. Outside Rotary, he is a regular driver for Meals on Wheels and is active in his gurdwara. Jaspreet exemplifies the Rotary credo, “Service Above Self".

Judy Garver

Judy Garver received a Lifetime Volunteer Leadership Award for her long-time service and commitment to Rotary and the West Bloomfield community. Judy was a dedicated Rotarian for 29 years. She served three terms as a club president and was the District 6380 Governor in 2009-2010. At the time of her death in 2020, she was Executive Secretary for the Rotary Club of West Bloomfield and an enthusiastic supporter of all Club and District endeavors. Additionally, Judy served on the Michigan Week committee, was a dedicated member of her church, Spirit of Grace and served on the Greater West Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce for many years. Her dedication and optimism are sorely missed.

Graduation Looms Near For Our STRIVE Scholars

It was a challenging year for students. School online and then hybrid for some made for lots of changes. Our STRIVE committee struggled to maintain contact even though it was only possible on sporadic Zoom calls. Despite the barriers, all STRIVE students have met the requirements for graduation and have plans for further education. Congratulations to our 2020-21 STRIVE Scholars! We wish you well.

Heaven Gilmore - intends to pursue a nursing career. She will attend Oakland Community College in the fall.

Michaela Hester - has received a full scholarship to the College for Creative Studies where she will pursue her interest in visual imaging. Michaela is an accomplished artist who will succeed in the art world no matter what path she chooses.

Shania Baker - adapted well to the new environment and has been enjoying online learning this year. Shania plans to attend Oakland Community College in the fall. She intends to pursue a career in physical therapy.

Rotarians Serving the Environment

Saturday, May 8 was a beautiful day to enjoy West Bloomfield Woods Nature Preserve while helping to free of invasive Garlic Mustard plants. Eight Rotarians, family members and three Interact members were on hand to assist. WB Parks Staff provided background information about the preserve and the native plants while we worked. President Floer provided coffee and donuts. Perfect!

May 8, 2021- Garlic Mustard Stewardship with WB Parks

Interact Club Helps Blessings In A Backpack

Every week, Blessings in a Backpack provides weekend food to 280 students in the West Bloomfield School District. While most packages are delivered to students at their school, families in the Lakers Online program must pick up their packets at West Bloomfield High School. On Wednesdays, Blessings in a Backpack volunteers offer weekend food from 11:30am - 12:30pm and 3:30pm - 4:30pm to Lakers Online families who need the extra support. The volunteers have kept this schedule since October 2020 and will continue until the end of the school year. Recently, our Interact Club has been assisting with the process which provides a little break for the "regulars" and offers a "Service Above Self" opportunity for the student volunteers. Thank you for helping address a continuing need in our community.

Lily and Maleeha ready to distribute weekend food for Blessings in a Backpack.	Simran and Nayan at the end of their Blessings in a Backpack shift.

United We Walk - United We Serve

"Everyone Can Be Great Because Anyone Can Serve"

WB Interact Club Brings Holiday Cheer

The December project for our West Bloomfield Interact Club was one of their favorites - making and distributing holiday cards. This time, the lucky recipients were patients at SKLD West Bloomfield, a skilled nursing rehabilitation center. The Interact Club members made and decorated approximately 45 cards. Club President, Navya Paingol and Club Historian, Anjali Natarajan delivered the cards to the facility on December 24 - just in time for their sleigh ride that evening. The club's efforts brought joy to many including the staff!

Team Turkey Is Over But Gratitude Prevails

A note from a Thanksgiving dinner recipient.

This Thanksgiving - JOIN THE TEAM!

West Bloomfield Rotary Club once again is joining forces with neighboring Rotary Clubs to deliver fully-cooked Thanksgiving meals to deserving families in Oakland and Macomb counties on Thanksgiving Day. It’s in our hands to make a difference for those in need around us. Show your thankfulness this Thanksgiving by giving to others through Team Turkey.

Here's How You Can Help:

Donate toward food expenses
Volunteer to deliver meals (Drivers are especially needed!)
Recommend a family in need
Purchase a Rotary-branded face mask

To learn more, volunteer or donate: https://www.rotaryteamturkey.org

OMNI - Making A Difference

Dr. Henry Maicki during an OMNI medical mission "Nearly 20 years ago, I joined a medical team organized by Orphan Medical Network International. OMNI reaches out to the poorest of the poor in Zambia and is devoted to sustained improvements in the lives of orphaned and vulnerable children. It provides critical resources such as food, clean water, medical care and education. My trip to Zambia shook me, both personally and professionally, by what I witnessed first-hand. It became very clear that the needs far outweighed available resources to care for these children. I knew right then that I would become a long-time friend of OMNI. I’ve returned to Zambia many times since to be a lifeline for as many children as possible. I believe every child deserves a future. I’m proud that the Rotary Club of West Bloomfield has partnered with OMNI in an effort to lift children out of the cycle of poverty. The support that we extend not only raises the spirits and gives hope to these deserving youngsters, it also impacts the hearts of those who give."

You can help! As we have in the past, our goal is to raise enough money to sponsor at least 20 children. A $360 Sponsorship provides one child’s needs for an entire year.

Donate By Credit Card

or PayPal Here:

For Payment by Check:

Make checks payable to: West Bloomfield Area Rotary Foundation

Mail to: West Bloomfield Rotary

PO Box 252264, West Bloomfield, MI 48325

The West Bloomfield Area Rotary Foundation is a non-profit, 501(3)c tax-exempt organization.

Welcome Back!

GeeBee Thimotheose

Welcome back to our newest member, G.B. Thimotheose! G.B. is no stranger to West Bloomfield Rotary. He is a former member and past president of our club. Professionally, he is the co-Founder and Partner of Kyyba Films. G.B. has executive produced three major feature films, Devil’s Night: Dawn of the Nain Rouge, Celebrity Crush and Christmas Coupon which have been distributed around the world. His films have been featured in major world film festivals including Festival de Cannes, Dances with Film, Sunscreen Film Festival, Gasparilla International Film Festival, Tampa Bay Underground Film Festival (TBUFF), Houston Horror Film Festival, The Melbourne Independent Filmmakers Festival, Rock Horror Film Festival (Brazil), etc. His film Celebrity Crush premiered at the historic TCL Chinese Theatre (Grauman's Chinese Theatre) and Devil’s Night: Dawn of the Nain Rouge at Festival de Cannes.

G.B. graduated summa cum laude from Walsh College with a Master's of Business Administration. He also has a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Detroit-Mercy, graduating with honors. G.B. has membership in such esteemed organizations as Delta Mu Delta, Psi Chi, The National Dean’s List, All American Scholar, and Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges. In addition to being a past President of the West Bloomfield Rotary Club, he also is a past President of the West Bloomfield Optimist Club. G.B. is the only Indian-American to have served as President of both esteemed service organizations. G.B. is the recipient of the Rotarian of the Year Award, the Spirit of Optimist Community Service Award, and the Society of Excellence President’s Circle Award.

Holding Court

West Bloomfield Rotary showed up in full color to support Park-To-Treat-To-Go, hosted by West Bloomfield Parks on Sunday, October 25. A parade of costumed adults, including our President Renee Floer, distributed candy to hundreds of trick-or-treaters who stood beside their car, waiting excitedly for sweet treats to be dropped into their Halloween bags. Thank you to our Rotarian volunteers Jaspreet Singh and Cindy Hill, Interact members Ysabella Macalino and Simran Chandna plus former Interacters Simran and Surveen Singh and Rotary supporter, Debbie Floer.

World Polio Day is October 24, 2020

Jack Nicklaus, Polio Survivor

"Polio is just a memory now, but it was a horrible disease. I contracted it when I was 13—a year or two before Jonas Salk's polio vaccine was made available. I started feeling stiff, my joints ached, and over a two-week period I lost my coordination and 20 pounds. I recovered after a few weeks, but I still may suffer from post-polio syndrome. My whole career, my joints have gotten awfully sore at times.” You can help eradicate polio forever. To donate: http://endpolionow.org

Making Our Mission Possible By Donating To WB Parks

Members of the WB Parks Commission gathered with West Bloomfield Rotary members on September 23, 2020, as we presented them with a donation to be used towards the Universally Accessible playscape being built at Drake Sports Park in the near future.

Celebrating Rotary's Basic Education and Literacy Month

How West Bloomfield Rotary Supports Students Of All Ages

STRIVE scholarships (Students Taking a Renewed Interest in Education) offer motivation and recognition to at risk high school juniors and seniors. Often, these students face personal hardships. STRIVE gives these students an additional support system.

Our Pre-K Book Bash delivers new books to preschool students in the West Bloomfield School District. Many of these children have few or no books of their own.

We provide ongoing support for the OMNI (Orphan Medical Network International) school in Ndola, Zambia where students through Grade 9 receive meals, clothing and medical treatment in addition to education. Generous donations as well as monetary grants from Rotary International help sustain this program.

Rotary Readers deliver story time delight for primary grade classrooms on a monthly basis. Reading aloud to students increases their comprehension and literacy skills.

Judy Garver (August 11, 1940 - August 11, 2020)

A Life Well-Lived

A life well lived is a precious gift,
of hope and strength and grace,
from someone who has made our world
a brighter, better place.

It's filled with moments, sweet and sad
with smiles and sometimes tears,
with friendships formed and good times shared,
and laughter through the years.

A life well lived is a legacy,
of joy and pride and pleasure,
a living, lasting memory
our grateful heart's will treasure.

--Author Unknown

Judy, you will be sorely missed by all who knew you.

Thank you for your leadership, guidance and service

to West Bloomfield Rotary, to Rotary District 6380 and to Rotary International!

Judy’s family welcomes all to a memorial gathering on Friday August 21, 2020 from 3pm-6pm at Family Funeral Care, located at 2904 Orchard Lake Rd in Keego Harbor. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Judy’s honor to The Rotary Foundation at: www.rotary.org/en/donate.

Judy Garver, of West Bloomfield Michigan, passed away Tuesday August 11, 2020, 80 years to the day of her birth on August 11, 1940. Judy was born the daughter of Gerald and Lenore (Johnson) Garver in Detroit, Michigan. She graduated from Cooley High School, class of 1958, and started college at Valparaiso University in Indiana. She later earned her bachelor degree from Wayne State University. Judy began as a bank teller for National Bank of Southfield, then worked her way up to Branch Manager and Vice President at Comerica Bank. As a business woman, she was active in the National Association of Bank Women, the National Association of Women Owners, Financial Women International, and multiple chambers of commerce, including 10 years with the Greater West Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce as a board member and 3 years as its president. Judy was extremely active in her community. She was in Rotary International for 29 years, serving 3 times as a club president and a year as District Governor of District 6380. She served 15 years on the board of the Locklin Pines Condominium Association. Always a supporter of youth programs, she supported the Boy Scouts of America and taught classes in Junior Achievement. She was an active member of the Spirt of Grace Church in West Bloomfield. Judy is survived by her husband Hal Parish, whom she married on November 25, 2000 at Historic Trinity Lutheran Church in Detroit; sons Frederick (Donna) and Karl from a previous marriage; twin stepsons David (Nurya) and Donald (Lisa); grandchildren John, Brian, and Lucia; step-grandchildren Nathan, Claire, Evan, and Aiden; siblings Gerald (Arlene) and Jeffery (Karen); as well as many nieces and nephews. Judy’s family welcomes all to a memorial gathering on Friday August 21, 2020 from 3-6pm at Family Funeral Care, located at 2904 Orchard Lake Rd in Keego Harbor. Memorial contributions may be made in Judy’s honor to The Rotary Foundation online at www.rotary.org. This is preferred in lieu of flowers.

Meet Our Newest Members

Dr. Joerg Janssen Ginger Winter

Dr. Janssen joined our club in late February. He lives in Bremen Germany with his family including wife, Regina Schwartz, son Richard and daughter Christine.

Dr. Janssen is a General Practice physician who has expertise in travel medicine, palliative care and life coaching. He travels to the United States frequently and was a steady visitor to the West Bloomfield Rotary Club prior to becoming a member. Additionally, he already has become an international ambassador for Rotary having recently visited our sister club in Ramla, Israel.

Mrs. Ginger Winter transferred her membership from Saline to West Bloomfield in June when she and husband, Ralph, relocated to our community. A Paul Harris Fellow and member of the Saline Rotary for 12 years, she served as Membership Chair for several years and was Chair of the Rotary Historic Oakwood Cemetery Enactment tour for 3 years. Ginger also is a Senior Director with Mary Kay, Inc. Previously she taught elementary school in Bloomfield Hills and Plymouth, MI and holds a BA from Oakland University and MA from Eastern University. She and her husband have two daughters, two sons-in-laws and five granddaughters.

Mission Possible Cancelled

Due to the continuing COVID-19 crisis, we are unable to reschedule our Mission Possible gala. While the event itself has been cancelled, our mission to support youth continues and the needs are growing. Thank you to our generous sponsors who assisted us in securing funds to continue our scholarships for at-risk WBSD students, provide Thanksgiving meals for those who have none, purchase books for pre-school children and support WB Parks in building a universally accessible playscape at Drake Sports Park.

Donate A Serving Of HOPE

Join the West Bloomfield Interact Club and the West Bloomfield Rotary Club in our Summer

Meal Ticket Challenge

Your donation provides nutritious meals for families in need. Each year, Grace Centers of Hope serves more than 190,000 meals to men, women, and children in their life-changing programs. Hope begins with just one meal!

Our Meal Ticket Challenge will provide nutritious meals for only $2.05 per meal

Your donation counts!

$205.00 = 100 meals

$153.75 = 75 meals

$102.50 = 50 meals

$ 51.25 = 25 meals

$ 20.50 = 10 meals

$ 2.05 = 1 meal

Make checks payable and send to:

Rotary Club of West Bloomfield

PO Box 252264, West Bloomfield MI 48325

Donate by credit card

or PayPal here:

ZOOM MEETING SUCCESS!

Great to see so many members and guests at our April 10 meeting! Our featured speaker was Chief Greg Flynn, West Bloomfield Fire Department. (Chief Flynn is pictured on the Zoom panel, bottom row first photo on the left)

Community Event - Join Us!

Happy 2020 from West Bloomfield Rotary!

Volunteering At Haven's Gift Giveaway

On December 11, 2019, West Bloomfield Rotary members and friends worked the Haven Gift Giveaway for the third year in a row. Haven, a shelter for victims of domestic and sexual violence, holds this event annually for graduates of their program. They are invited to shop for "free" for their families and themselves. Volunteers provide shopping assistance, inventory, shelf stocking and checkout assistance. Most importantly, they provide encouragement, support and good cheer for these fragile individuals.

Rotarians, Dr. Henry and Marlenn Maicki worked the first shift along with Club President Jerry Hill.	Interact Club members help sort items for the Giveaway on December 11.
Friends of Rotary, Mary Kleam, Maddie Kleam and Linda Weir assist on our first shift.	Rotarians Lee Jaffke, Chris Martin, Cindy Hill, Raman Singh, Renee Floer and Judy Garver worked on the second shift.

Congratulations to our Interact Club!

Eating for Good - Team Turkey Fundraiser

Rotary Team Turkey provides fully cooked Thanksgiving dinners to families in need on Thanksgiving Day. Help us reach our goal of providing 300 meals this year!

Join us on October 28 from 4pm to 8pm

7100 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield

You must present the special flyer in order for your purchase to be credited towards our fundraiser. Find it under "Read More."

Thank you!

2019 INTERACT DAY IS COMING!

November 9, 2019

Join us at West Bloomfield High School For Interact Day 2019

Pictured Above: Interact Club of West Bloomfield

Here's your chance to connect with Rotary District 6380 Interact Club members from across Southeastern Michigan and Southern Ontario. Meet New Friends!! Share Ideas!! Have Fun!!

When: November 9, 2019

Where: West Bloomfield High School, 4925 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield MI 48323

Time: 8:30am - 1:30pm

Cost: $12 Advance Registration ~ $15 At the Door (includes continental breakfast and lunch)

**Let us know you're coming**

1. Register through Google Docs: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfCKhA4dE3uJ9vVGnVKXhiwviSZ0QFPs2HUkEUFuudhrhz4yg/viewform?usp=sf_link

2. Register and pay $12 via Venmo: @WBRotary-98 (please note names of attendees)

3. Register via westbloomfieldrotary@gmail.com and pay at door ($15)

Safari Dinner Fundraiser - September 15!

Rotary Readers Making An Impact!

Pictured above front from left: Paula Konfara, Pam Zajac, Judy Garver and Linda Wolschlager. Back: Cindy Hill and Mark Einhaus

Each month, a dedicated group of volunteers spends time in classrooms reading to students. Students and teachers alike look forward to these visitors! The Rotary Readers are regulars at Roosevelt Elementary in Keego Harbor where they interact with children in Kindergarten, First and Second Grade classrooms. The West Bloomfield Public Library is a partner in this endeavor having curated and donated over 35 books that engage children of this age. Plans to expand the program to other West Bloomfield School District elementary schools are in the works! Readers include Rotarians: Mark Einhaus, Judy Garver, Cindy Hill, Jerry Hill, Paula Konfara, Marlenn Maicki, Linda Wolschlager, Pam Zajac and community members: Mary Kleam, Gary Rhineheimer.

	Rotarian Mark Einhaus prepares to read "Sparky" to second grade students in Mrs. Katy Knighton's class.
	Our community partner, the West Bloomfield Township Public Library, generously curated and donated 35 books complete with bookplate.
	Rotary Reader and Superintendent of West Bloomfield School District, Dr. Jerry Hill, knows that reading to children builds cognitive development, improves language skills and prepares them for academic success.

Annual Spaghetti Dinner
To Benefit Youth!

Join Us For Pasta With A Purpose

Purchase Your Tickets Now: http://www.rotaryclubofwestbloomfield.com/events

$15 per adult ~ $7 children under 12

Proceeds support West Bloomfield Rotary Youth Projects including STRIVE (Students Taking a Renewed Interest in the Value of Education) which offers annual scholarships to West Bloomfield High School students; RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Assembly) a program designed to build future leaders and our new Pre-K Book Bash giveaway offering every West Bloomfield pre-school student a book to call their own.

Renee Floer Named President Nominee!!

Renee Floer was elected President Nominee for 2020-21 at the December 7, 2018 meeting. Renee joined our club in 2017 and is a Certified Financial Planner. She and husband Scott have two children, Lana who will graduate from MSU this spring and Clark who graduates from West Bloomfield High School in June. Pictured here, President Elect Jerry Hill and current President, Cindy Hill congratulate President Nominee Renee at our annual Holiday Brunch.

West Bloomfield Rotary Celebrates!

At the annual Foundation Celebration, we received two $2500 District Grants to be used for OMNI water projects and a $500 District Grant for the TEAM TURKEY project! Great news and great causes! We also were recognized for our contributions to the PolioPlus fund. Hal Parish, pictured with District Governor, Jane McManus, displays the plaque received at the event.

We're This Close!

The Rotary Club of West Bloomfield welcomed Ginger Barrons, End Polio Now District Co-Chair on October 26, 2018. Ginger gave an informative presentation on where we stand in the quest to eradicate this terrible disease. We're this close to zero cases worldwide. Let's keep up the fight.

2017-18 Presidential Citation Earned!

Accepting the Presidential Citation is Past President, Scott Loney; President, Cindy Hill with Past Assistant Governor, Paul McVey

Past Assistant Governor, Paul McVey, delivered a 2017-18 Presidential Citation to the club at our October 5, 2018 meeting. The Presidential Citation is achieved by meeting goals that support the priorities established by the Rotary International President. Congratulations to all club members for assisting in achieving the goals!

World Polio Day

Rotary International has partnered with the World Health Organization (WHO), the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to eradicate polio worldwide at a cost of over $9 billion worldwide. We are so close to completely beating this terrible disease which has killed or permanently disabled so many. Each year, the Rotary Club of West Bloomfield donates to the Rotary Foundation Polio Plus Fund with the assist of a matching donation challenge by club member, Hal Parish. To learn more about polio and Rotary's work, see http://www.polioeradication.org.

2018 OMNI Fundraiser

Join us at the Steinway Piano Gallery | September 27

The Rotary Club of West Bloomfield
is raising funds to continue education, medical care and humanitarian aid for those who need it in Ndola, Zambia, Africa.

Join Us For Presidents' Night

Join us for a convivial evening celebrating our accomplishments under the direction of President, Scott Loney, and for the induction of the 2018-19 Club Officers and Board of Directors. Enjoy a lakeside BBQ and entertainment at beautiful Pine Lake Country Club.

All West Bloomfield Rotary Club members and their guests are encouraged to attend!

When: July 18, 2018

Where: Pine Lake Country Club ~ 3300 Pine Lake Road, Orchard Lake

Time: Cocktails at 5:30 PM, Dinner at 6:30PM, Program and Installation of Officers and Board of Directors following

Details: Please RSVP by July 6, 2018 to Cindy Hill at cynthiajoyhill@yahoo.com or (248) 242-4657. Cost is $60 per person.

Mail payment to Treasurer, Steve Lepsetz ~ 31500 West 13 Mile Road, Suite 114, Farmington Hills 48334 or pay at the door.

Business Attire is requested.

STRIVE Scholars Recognized At MI Week!

2017-18 STRIVE Scholars, Noelle Sellars and Diamani Kleckley, were recognized at the annual Michigan Week Breakfast. Both girls graduated from West Bloomfield High School on June 3, 2018.

In attendance from Rotary were President Scott Loney, President Elect and STRIVE Chair, Cindy Hill, STRIVE Co-Chair, Jaspreet Singh and President Nominee, Dr. Gerald Hill who is also Superintendent of West Bloomfield School District.

Support Our Interact Club's Donation Drive

Rotary Club of West Bloomfield Celebrates 20th Anniversary!

Got Stuff? Need Stuff?

Come to the West Bloomfield Rotary Garage Sale!

Charity Cakes 2018

Rotary Distinguished Service Award

Posted on Oct 19, 2017

The Rotary Clubs of Ann Arbor and West Bloomfield welcome you to a very special afternoon honoring Holocaust survivor, Martin Lowenberg. Mr. Lowenberg has made his personal mission one of sharing his story with younger generations in order that this dark period in history is never forgotten.

“We aren’t getting any younger. Pretty soon, there will be no one left to provide a first hand account of the Holocaust.”

– Martin Lowenberg

Read The Daily Tribune Story

OMNI Fundraiser 2017

An Entertaining Piano Concert, A Silent Auction & Fun

Thursday Nov. 2, 2017

Get Your Tickets Now --Spaghetti Dinner

Join us for food and fun on August 17, 2017 at the Rotary Cub of West Bloomfield's annual Spaghetti Dinner. There will be pasta and homemade sauces plus salad and dessert -- all from the kitchens of our talented Club Members. And, don't miss the Trivia Contest where you can test your knowledge and win some exciting prizes!

Presidents' Night 2017

Join us for a convivial social evening celebrating the accomplishments of Dr. Henry Maicki’s two years as Club President and the induction of Scott Loney as our new President. Our four new club members will be inducted and we also will honor our Interact Club's accomplishments. A light buffet dinner and non-alcoholic beverages will be served.

All West Bloomfield Rotary Club members and their guests are encouraged to attend!

When: July 17, 2017

Where: West Bloomfield High School iCenter ~ 4925 Orchard Lake Road, 48323

Time: Doors open at 6:30 PM, program begins at 7:00 sharp.

Please RSVP by July 11, 2017. Cost is $20 per person. Payment can be made through PayPal or at the door.

Questions? Call Scott Loney at 248-330-1742 or send e-mail to rotaryclubofwestbloomfield@gmail.com

http://www.rotaryclubofwestbloomfield.com/events

West Bloomfield Interact Club

West Bloomfield Rotary Club is the sponsor of the West Bloomfield Interact Club.

What in the world is an Interact Club and who are the members of this group? What do the members of the group do?

Interact Clubs are a wonderful part of the Rotary world in the US, Canada and internationally. Students from the ages of 12 to 18 are eligible to join an Interact Club either in their own school, a neighboring school or in their community where they live or work. Our Interact Club was formed in 2008. Students who join Interact Clubs stay in their club until they graduate from high school. (Rotaract Clubs are formed at Universities or in communities for post-high school people).

Posted by Steve Ketcham

Club Happenings

May 21, 2009

There will be a board meeting on the 29th at 8:00 am, with a Grub Crawl meeting to follow.

NOTE: THE BOARD AND GRUB CRAWL MEETING WILL BE HELD AT THE WESTACRES BRANCH OF THE WEST BLOOMFIELD LIBRARY. WESTACRES IS LOCATED AT 7321 COMMERCE ROAD. PLEASE PARK ON THE WEST SIDE OF THE BUILDING AND GO TO THE STAFF ENTRANCE BY THE MAILBOX AND KNOCK. Steve's direct phone number is 248-232-2401.

-Scott's preparation for his trip to Mongolia is moving along. Scott has found a Geo Metro to make the trip in. Please plan to attend one of the upcoming fundraisers for Scott!

Exchange Students-The club has agreed to help oversee an exchange student in the coming school year. Tony will be a mentor to the student, and Dr. Hearn is putting the word out in the community that we are looking for host families.

Membership Directory-Membership directories were passed out. Please make any changes and return them to Marian.

Student Council Leadership Camp-Bob mentioned that in speaking with the leadership teacher at the high school, she mentioned that two members of the same family would like to attend the Student Council Leadship Camp. The students need to pay $320 to attend. The club agreed to give something to the family, with the amount being decided at the board meeting.

-Judy received an award from the Board of Trustees for being District Governor. Congratulations Judy!

Speaker-Robin Boyle gave a wonderful presention on the decline and future of Detroit.

President's Night and July 9 Meeting

Posted by Steve Ketcham

Just a reminder for anyone who hasn't been around for a while, but President's Night will be tonight, June 30, 6:30 pm, at Italia Fresca. The cost will be $25 per person.

There will be no meeting this Thursday due to President's Night. The meeting on July 9 will be exclusively for the meeting with our member, and the current District Governor, Judy Garver.

Club Happenings May 14, 2009

Posted by Steve Ketcham

Make sure you check out the calendar of meeting dates on the site because a few meetings have been cancelled in the next few months.

Scott's Fundraisers-Shelley has cancelled her fundraiser for Scott but there are two other opportunities to support him, June 1st at the Uptown Grill and June 8th at the Mongolian BBQ in Novi.

Green School-Thanks to Dr. Hearn, Green School held a Hats Off event, which raised $215 for polio elimination. A big thanks goes out to the children of Green School.

Richmond Rotary Books-The Richmond Rotary Club purchased 22,000 new books for ages 9-12. They are looking for clubs who can use them for projects.

Youth Exchange-Tony has mentioned that there are 3 foreign exchange students who still need to be placed in our district. Dr. Hearn will put the word out through the schools to try and find host families in West Bloomfield.

RYLA-Joan reported that her grandsons had a wonderful time at RYLA.

Club Happenings May 7, 2009

Posted by Steve Ketcham

Lee Jaffke was presented with the Greater West Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce Excellence in Civic Leadership Award at the MI Week Breakfast on May 8. Congratulations Lee!

Mongol Rally BD's Mongolian BBQ Charity Fundraising Dinner-Scott passed out information on this event, which will take place on June 8, from 6:00-10:00 pm. The BD's Mongolian BBQ in Novi is located at 43155 Main Street, Ste. 200, 735-1900. Tickets are available on the Mongol Rally site (MongolRallyGuys.com) or at the door, and the cost for the event will be $25 for Adults and $15 for kids (includes dinner, soft drinks, tax and tip). Come out and support Scott, Collin and their Rotary project in Mongolia!

Yvonne Buzek, from Backyard Birds Garden and Nature Store, gave an excellent talk at the May 7th meeting on the kinds of birds that can been seen here in MI. Yvonne showed photos of many bird species and played examples of their distinct calls.

Don't forget, Judy Garver's induction as District Governor will be on June 5 at Bentley's in West Bloomfield.