Featured Speaker
Dr. Sean Gibbons, ISB Science, Microbiome project (May 27th)
Sean Gibbons received his PhD in biophysical sciences from the University of Chicago in 2015, dual-advised by Jack Gilbert and Maureen Coleman. His graduate work focused on using microbial communities as empirical models for testing ecological theory. Gibbons completed his postdoctoral training in Eric Alm’s laboratory in the Department of Biological Engineering at MIT from 2015-2018. His postdoctoral work focused on developing techniques to quantify individual-specific eco-evolutionary dynamics within the human gut microbiome.
Gibbons was awarded a Fulbright Graduate Fellowship to study microbiology and synthetic biology at Uppsala University in Sweden, where he earned a master’s degree in 2010. His PhD work was supported by an EPA STAR Graduate Fellowship. Upon joining the ISB faculty in 2018, his startup package was supported, in part, by a Washington Research Foundation Distinguished Investigator Award.
Microbial communities are complex (i.e. many interacting species) and adaptive (i.e. evolving). Complex, adaptive systems continually reorganize themselves in response to the environment. Gibbons investigates how the structure and composition of evolving ecological networks of microorganisms change across environmental gradients. In particular, he is interested in how ecological communities in the gut change and adapt to individual people over their lifespans (i.e. host genotype, host development and host behavior) and how these changes impact human health. His lab develops computational and experimental tools for investigating host-associated microbial communities to explore the interactions between ecology, evolution and ecosystem function, applying these insights to develop personalized interventions for improving human health and well-being.
Upcoming Speakers
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Club Updates
Fred Auch shares front table duties with new member, Lyndsey Jarvis.
Tracy Rockland sponsors our newest member, Rachel Knight.
A Successful Thirsty Thursday at Arena Sports in Issaquah
Thirsty Thursday was a successful event at Arena Sports in Issaquah generously sponsored by our past president David Laub. Pictured here is our Club Administrator Tara Lystad giving video game tips to a bow tieless David Fain.
Book Group Discussion – July 9, 2025
The next Book Group meeting will be hybrid (in-person and by Zoom) on July 9, 2025, from 6:30 to 8:30 PM. Back again in our rotation is a Fiction pick; this time it’s “West with Giraffes: A Novel” by Lynda Rutledge.
An emotional, rousing novel inspired by the incredible true story of two giraffes who made headlines and won the heart of Depression-era America.
“Few true friends have I known and two were giraffes…”
Woodrow Wilson Nickel, age 105, feels his life ebbing away. But when he learns giraffes are going extinct, he finds himself recalling the unforgettable experience he cannot take to his grave.
It’s 1938. The Great Depression lingers. Hitler is threatening Europe, and world-weary Americans long for wonder. They find it in two giraffes who miraculously survive a hurricane while crossing the Atlantic. What follows is a twelve-day road trip in a custom truck to deliver Southern California’s first giraffes to the San Diego Zoo. Behind the wheel is the young Dust Bowl rowdy Woodrow. Inspired by true events, the tale wheel weaves real-life figures with fictional ones, including the world’s first female zoo director, a crusty old man with a past, a young female photographer with a secret, and assorted reprobates as spotty as the giraffes.
Part adventure, part, historical, saga, and part coming-of-age love story, West with Giraffes explores what it means to be changed by the grace of animals, the kindness of strangers, the passing of time, and a story told before it’s too late.
Jacksonville Florida Times-Union “This is a beautifully written novel that has everything in it. Intrigue, guilt, desperation, redemption and a pair of the most wonderful giraffes to ever be documented. The truly inspiring part of this book is that it is based on true events. Some names have been changed and the story is invented by Rutledge, but it reads like a true biography.”
If you are interested in attending, RSVP to John Campbell to receive the location address and Zoom link, which will be published about a week ahead of the meeting.
Soon-to-be our president-elect Jeffrey gets sage advice from longtime member Mike Hendrickson.
“An Interview with Bob Wallace” highlighted Bob’s many contributions to our Club and community!
Bellevue Rotarians with Admiral Sucato after USS Nebraska (SSBN 739) at Bangor Base
More Than Coffee: A Powerful Rotary Fellowship Experience
What happens when you bring together longtime Rotarians and newer members for a casual coffee chat? More than you might expect.
Recently, four Bellevue Rotary members—Stu Vander Hoek, Dan Seydel, Frank Sosebee Jr., and Jemal Idris—met as part of our club’s Fellowship Coffee initiative. What began as a simple meet-and-greet quickly unfolded into something much deeper: a thoughtful, energizing exchange of stories, insights, and purpose.
The group shared personal journeys into Rotary, lessons from past service, and ideas for the future. Long-standing traditions were explored, and fresh perspectives were welcomed. It was mentorship, networking, and friendship—all in one.
Dan reflected, “Having veteran members take an interest in us is a tremendous privilege—and gives me real hope for the future of our club.”
Stu added, “When each of us had our elbow on the small table, I knew we were in a good place.” He shared how meaningful it was to learn Frank’s story and hear his honest questions about the Rotary experience.
Frank shared, “As a newer member, being invited into such an open and meaningful dialogue gave me real perspective—and a sense of purpose. I left knowing I’m part of something bigger.”
Jemal noted, “These moments are some of the most powerful ways to connect across generations in Rotary. Every time I sit down for one of these conversations, I walk away learning something completely new—and often profound—about a fellow Rotarian. That’s the magic of Rotary fellowship.”
In a world full of busy calendars and digital messages, this gathering was a reminder of what makes Rotary truly unique: the human connection.
Incoming president Michael checks in with past presidents Barbara and David.
Newly awarded blue badge members Brandon, Robb, and Tim get acknowledged by President Tom.
Maria Norena announces the John Lee environmental award to past president Steve McConnell
New member David Lin and spouse, Pauline!
President Tom inducts our newest member, Dr. David Lin
Our group of new members at the Fireside event
April 29th 2025 Meeting Notes
Inspiration from Rotarian Virginia McKenzie, Charter President of RC PNW Ending Sex Trafficking, and The More We Love’s Executive Director Kristine Moreland:
Rotarians Virginia McKenzie and Ben Wicks
Ben Wicks, Virginia McKenzie, Cathy Burnell, Kristine Moreland, Stephen Morse, and Eric Laschever
President Tom, Kristine Moreland, and Virginia McKenzie
Learn about the end of sex trafficking:
- Saturday, June 14th
- Open House at The More We Love Emergency Receiving Center in Renton, WA
- 2:00 PM PT Movie Showing of VIP Tour: Bobbi Jo Under the Influence
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Talk with your teens about how to avoid grooming and sexual exploitation
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Explore Script for Talking to Teenagers to get started
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Call on Virginia McKenzie for ideas about service projects for Bellevue Rotary
May Rotary Anniversaries!
Join us in celebrating the remarkable dedication and service of our members as they mark their Rotary Anniversaries. These individuals have contributed their time and energy to make a positive impact in our community and beyond, embodying the true spirit of Rotary. Let’s take a moment to recognize their outstanding commitment and express our heartfelt gratitude for their unwavering support.
| Rotarian | Rotary Years |
|---|---|
| Margaret Doman | 29 |
| John Comstock | 15 |
| Kim Lorenz | 15 |
| Adam Snyder | 14 |
| Norman Langseth | 13 |
| Dave Hoagland | 13 |
| Halene Sigmund | 13 |
| Paul Lwali | 12 |
| Heather Trescases | 12 |
| David Anderson | 9 |
| Troy Roper | 4 |
| Fran Dougherty | 2 |
| Conner Perryman | 2 |
May’s Calendar Highlights
Here are some of the items on the BRC Calendar for May:
- Rotary Youth Service Month
- Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month [For More Information]
- Mental Health Awareness Month [For More Information]
- May 1st May Day
- May 1st First Day of National Week of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls
- May 5th Cinco de Mayo [For More Information]
- May 6th 10:00 AM-11:00 AM PT World Community Service Committee Meeting
- May 6th 12:00 PM-1:30 PM PT BRC Lunch
- May 8th 12:15 PM-1:45 PM PT DEI Committee Meeting
- May 11th Mother’s Day
- May 13th 12:00 PM-1:30 PM PT BRC Lunch
- May 14th 6:30 PM-9:00 PM PT Book Group Discussion
- May 15th 6:00 PM-7:00 PM PT Thirsty Thursday
- May 20th 12:00 PM-1:30 PM PT BRC Lunch
- May 21st 8:00 AM-9:30 AM PT BRC Board Meeting
- May 26th Memorial Day
- May 27th 12:00 PM-1:30 PM PT BRC Lunch
The Calendar includes some committee meetings, service events, and other BRC happenings. If you are a Committee Chair or Event Organizer, you can add your item to the calendar by filling out the Google form at https://forms.gle/RppUFLstN4AnzXR6A.
468 Sandwiches of Service: Our First Rotaract/Interact Project for Union Gospel Mission
Our first Rotaract/Interact service project packed 468 peanut butter & jam sandwiches for Union Gospel Mission.
Past President Jemal and President Tom inspect a wonderful box of PB&J’s made by our Newport Interact team to help feed the homeless:
Group photo after assembling 480 sandwiches at Newport High School:
Chuck Doland and Partners For Work Featured in Greet Magazine
January’s theme at the Bellevue Rotary Club is all about “Brace For Impact”. The positive impact we make in the success of our communities by investing our time, talent, treasure and trust.
A shining example is highlighted in this month’s article in Greet Magazine which features our own Chuck Doland and his commitment to service above self. The article focuses on Chuck’s long term work with the Bellevue Schools and Partners For Work. In the article you will see our wonderful greeters Megan (from last year) and Sebastian (this year). Chuck reflects on the power of Rotarians working together to effect change, build inclusivity and lift our communities. Find a copy and be inspired. Well done Chuck!
Article Summary
Chuck Doland, a longtime West Bellevue resident and Bellevue High School alumnus (’61), has dedicated his life to community service through his work with the Bellevue Rotary Club. A key focus of Chuck’s efforts is the Partners for Work (PFW) program, which connects individuals with developmental disabilities to meaningful employment opportunities. This initiative started with four Rotary clubs and has expanded to nearly 25 chapters in King County and created over 200 competitive jobs. Author of A Trifecta of Impact in Bellevue, Allison Frey, notes:
“The program’s footprint has grown thanks to its proven success in connecting communities and businesses to the untapped potential of individuals with developmental disabilities.”
PFW provides mock interviews, resume presentations, and job tours to help students transition out of public school and gain employment. In accordance with Washington Administrative Code (WAC) and the Individuals with Disability Education Act (IDEA), the Evergreen Transition Program in Bellevue further supports young adults with disabilities from high school to fulfilling futures by fostering independence in employment, education, and life skills.
Chuck champions the Rotary ethos of “Service Above Self” and believes in the transformative power of inclusivity, emphasizing the value that individuals with disabilities bring to the workforce, and says “communities thrive when they’re inclusive.”
New Bellevue Rotary website feature: Club internal pages
In the past few months, several committees have asked to publish club internal content to our website.
As our website is currently targeted to public facing content only, the ability to add club internal content was lacking until now.
We’re pleased to announce that we have a new section of our website dedicated to this.
You can find this section by clicking on “Club Internal” on the member page (see screenshot) of our site or by directly opening: https://bellevuerotary.org/internal/
This section of the website is password protected, we will change the password from time to time and send an update to brc-mbrs@ (and include it in the emailed bulletin as a reminder as well)
Using Zelle for Club and Foundation Invoices and Donations
The Rotary Club of Bellevue and the Bellevue Rotary Foundation now accept payments via Zelle. We recently switched our banking relationship in order to reduce operating costs for both the Club and the Foundation, but we need your help! Another way to reduce our operating costs if for our members to start using Zelle to make Happy Bucks, Fines, Club, and Foundation payments as there are no fees associated with these transactions versus the fees we incur when payments are made via credit card.
See instructions on how to use Zelle to make payments to the Bellevue Rotary here.
