West U Rotary Newsletter Week of Sept 11th (Sep. 08, 2025)

Stephen Smith

Happy New Year, West U Rotarians and Friends,

As we step into a brand-new year, I am energized by the optimism, momentum, and Unite for Good; Compassion in Action that continue to define the West University Rotary Club. The start of 2026 finds our club not slowing down—but flourishing—through visible service, strong partnerships, and an exciting pipeline of future leaders.

This past weekend perfectly reflected that momentum. West U Rotarians proudly hosted two community service events tied to the Houston Marathon. Our members unfurled American flags along the marathon route through West University Place and operated a hydration station on University Boulevard. These high-visibility projects showcased Rotary service in action while supporting one of Houston’s most iconic community events. Thank you to everyone who volunteered—you represented our club exceptionally well.

Our Youth Service programs are thriving, and Thursday’s breakfast meeting was a wonderful example. We were honored to host the officers of the Lanier Middle School Interact Club, including their President, Alara Romman. These impressive young leaders are the newest members of our Rotary family, and we congratulate them as we proudly mentor and support this growing Interact Club. In addition, we are excited to share that 10 RYLA campers have been selected to attend the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards camp this February—an outstanding opportunity to develop leadership skills that will serve them for years to come.

At our Club Assembly on Thursday morning, we also highlighted the depth and reach of our ongoing community service initiatives. From the Bagel Program with Star of Hope, Second Servings pop-up grocery events, and YMCA youth and afterschool programs, to seasonal efforts including Lamar High School Scholarships, Challenger Baseball, and future projects such as a Buffalo Bayou cleanup and expanded service with the Community Family Center, our club remains actively engaged across all ages and needs. These projects are made possible by dedicated Rotarians who consistently step up to serve.

Our International Service work continues as well. On Tuesday, 13 Belize vagabonds from West U Rotary head toBelize City, partnering with the Rotary Club of Belize City to build our 7th house together. This hands-on project reflects the heart of Rotary’s global mission, and we look forward to sharing stories and updates from the field. Stay tuned for the latest update next week.

As we begin this new year, let’s carry forward the optimism of fresh beginnings, the pride of visible service, and the shared commitment that makes West U Rotary such a special club. Together, we are strengthening our community—locally and globally—one project at a time.

In Rotary Service,
Stephen B. Smith
President, West University Rotary Club
✨ Unite for Good; Compassion in Action ✨

Final meeting at Pico's

Last meeting was our final gathering at Pico's, and we want to thank them again for the years of support and service they provided to our club. Thank you to all our members who contributed to our final “tip” collection for this fabulous group. We wish all of them the best in their next venture, and remain grateful to them for being our Rotary home for so many years.

October 2nd NEW LOCATION!!!

This is the week! Meet us at our new home, Scooters, On October 2nd where we begin an exciting new chapter at a familiar spot:

Skeeter’s, 5529 Wesleyan

September Birthdays!

Celebrate our September birthday members.

Introduce yourself to Hitomi

If you haven't met already, make sure you give Hitomi a nice Texas-sized welcome at our next meeting.

Loving Memory: Cindy Woods

CINDY WOODS MEMORIAL SERVICE

November 7th at 11:00 a.m.

Westmoreland Chapel, South Main Baptist Church

Please keep Mike and family in your hearts and prayers.

HPD Equine Officer appreciation visit

Those who could join us this past Saturday had an informative time learning about Houston Police Department's Equine Officers. But really, we were there to feed the horses and visit with the barn cat. Did you know that HPD and NYPD go back and forth between the largest mounted patrol divisions? It takes three months to train the horses where they’re exposed to loud noises (ie. firecrackers, shouting) and various terrains to prepare them for patrolling events such as parades and protests. The hay bill alone is about $10K/month. Supporters can sponsor a horse through the HPD Foundation, which helps defray the cost of veterinary care, equipment, etc… When the horses retire (usually about the age of 20), they are also adoptable by qualified ranches that can give them proper senior care and love.

As you can see in the photos, the horses LOVE big carrots, but also appreciated some apples served in a bowl (for finger protection). Most of us are ready to go back and do it again, we had so much fun. Thank you Lisa Bunse for organizing this fantastic outing!