Lily Margiljaj, our new social media intern. Lily is a student at Rochester Christian University and will be with us at least through this school year. Tom Townsend brought a guest, Bryan Hajciar, the Location Manager of Pixley's. Ernie Schaefer also brought Jan Riggs, the widow of former Rotarian Cary Riggs. Both Bryan and Jan are considering membership.
Karen Joyce was happy to be home after a fabulous trip visiting a former exchange student and his family. Unfortunately, she fell in Geneva on the way home and broke a couple of ribs. She’s recovering and happy to be back at Rotary!
Bill Ebinger
One more reason to celebrate: Jay Eastman announced that Brad Upton received his fourth Paul Harris recognition, earned through his generous support of the Rotary Foundation. Congratulations, Brad!
October is especially important in the Rotary world because we focus on our End Polio Now campaign in honor of October 24th's World Polio Day. Our district asks us all to raise funds and donate personally to the Polio Fund this month. Rochester Rotary will do this through our Family Trivia Night to End Polio, which is coming up on Friday, October 23, from 7 - 9 PM. The event will be held at Rewold & Sons (303 E. Third Street, Suite 300 in downtown Rochester). Bring the whole family for a fun evening to help build a brighter future for a polio-free world. Ernie Schaefer reminded everyone that Rotary’s fight to eradicate polio is legendary—and that supporting the upcoming event is an opportunity to become part of that legacy. Sponsorships are available for $100 or $200, and every dollar donated through the Foundation in a sponsor’s name counts toward their next Paul Harris recognition. Interested members can contact Ernie to sign up.
SONG LEADER
Sheriff David Blair is back, and nobody is safe! As autumn settles over Rochester, the Sheriff has sharpened his pencil, emptied his wallet, and prepared to separate Rotarians from their hard-earned cash. Remember, folks, ignorance is no defense, plaid is suspicious, and Halloween generosity can be downright criminal. Let’s review this week’s offenses!
But beware! The Lions have a bye week before facing Green Bay on October 25. Anyone wearing green and yellow is subject to a $5 fine for aiding and abetting the enemy. We can’t be too careful. Let’s keep those Lions rolling!
Detroit Zoo: Making a Difference for Animals and PeopleThe Detroit Zoological Society does far more than provide a place to see animals. Dr. De'Andrea Matthews, Vice President of Access and Community Engagement, shared an update on the Zoo’s growing impact on education, conservation, accessibility, and the community.
The Zoo is projecting 1.3 million guests in 2026, representing more than 46,000 member households. Visitors come from every county in Michigan and every state in the country. Beyond providing an outstanding visitor experience, the Zoo generates more than $190 million in economic impact.
The numbers tell an impressive story. The Zoo welcomed more than 105,000 visitors. Over 29,000 people participated in the Zoo's programs and special events. Nature Tots introduced more than 7,000 toddlers and their caregivers to nature and wildlife. More than 90 community partnerships help extend the Zoo’s reach throughout the region.
Education is a major part of the mission. The Detroit Zoological Society recorded more than 166,000 educational interactions with children, adults, and seniors. District partnerships bring opportunities to students, including sixth graders in Rochester, while teen programs such as Conservation Science Interns help young people explore conservation science and environmental stewardship.
The Zoo also creates meaningful experiences for people who might otherwise face barriers to visiting. Dream Night offers children with chronic or terminal illnesses and their families a memorable evening together. Nocturnal Adventures provides a night of respite for families and staff from transitional shelters. Senior Days welcomed more than 7,000 tri-county seniors for free visits this year.
Accessibility initiatives make the Zoo more welcoming to everyone. Sensory-friendly hours provide a quieter environment, while ReBokeh offers customized visual experiences. Through KultureCity, the Zoo provides sensory-inclusive training and products. Its Sunflower Hidden Disabilities Program promotes awareness and discreet support for guests with nonvisible disabilities.
Of course, the animals remain a major attraction. The Zoo celebrated numerous births, including three lion cubs, a female chimpanzee, three river otter pups and three penguin chicks. Seventy-six granulated glass frogs also hatched. New arrivals included Boba and Crumb, two joeys, as well as Nguvu, an adult male giraffe, and Darya, a two-year-old Amur tiger. Other additions included a male Chinese alligator and two spur-winged lapwings.
One of the major developments of 2026 was the opening of Erb Discovery Trails in late May. Featuring ten animal species, the new experience includes a stingray touch encounter and a reimagined farmyard where visitors can brush goats. More than 40,000 people visited during opening weekend!
Dr. Matthew’s presentation demonstrated how the Detroit Zoological Society connects wildlife, education, and community service. For Rochester Rotarians, it was a reminder that a beloved regional attraction can also be a powerful educational resource and community partner.
Rotarians interested in supporting the Zoo’s renewal campaign can direct friends and guests to its fact sheet to learn about additional opportunities to help.