Our Weekly Meeting Venue: St. Camillus – East Residence Tower
Elmbrook Rotary Club meets every Friday morning at: 
St. Camillus – East Residence Tower
10100 W. Bluemound Road, Wauwatosa, WI 53226
 
Visitors Welcome! See you 7-8 a.m. for a hot breakfast & cup of coffee!
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Elmbrook Rotary Club News
A New Place to Gather and Learn
Posted by William Selzer
 
Did you know that the Milwaukee Public Museum has 500,000 visitors each year, 150,000 kids inspired annually, Field Trips for 44 WI counties every year, and 4Million objects & specimens from every WI County to deep in space?
 
Dr. Ellen Censky, President/CEO Milwaukee Public Museum share some exciting news about the new Museum project.
Founded in 1882, the Museum has had three homes with the fourth on the horizon… currently under construction… set to open in early 2027. The new venue was inspired by geological formations, diverse landscapes of the areas of Wisconsin. This 240-million-dollar project blends many of the current Museum experience with new interactive exhibits.
Read more...
Friday Morning Festivities
Posted by William Selzer
 
On Friday morning, members gathered to celebrate in the spirit of Christmas and the Holiday Season. Sandy Wysocki and her helpers, Joe Pottebaum, Jim Finn, Don Down, Kerri Richlen, Chris Salani and Ralph Gould provided a great program of remembrances and song.
 
Thank you for this fun and interactive Holiday program.
 
As the year comes to an end, thank you to all our members for your time spent selflessly supporting the club, community and each other. The number of volunteer opportunities and events the club provided and attended speaks to our motto, “Service Above Self”.
 
Wishing you all a new year of love, kindness, and service.
Wellpoint Holiday Carnival
Posted by William Selzer
 
On Sunday, December 8th, Wellpoint Care network held their annual celebration for Foster Families at the Italian Community Center. The Holiday Carnival featured:
  • Great Brunch for all
  • Visit and photo op with Santa
  •  Stilt walker, juggler, DJ, and the Milwaukee Flyers Tumbling Group
  • Gingerbread cookie decorating, face painting, a photo booth, and ballon art
  • A variety of games with prizes were offered
Seventeen Elmbrook Rotary members assisted in running games, in the food service, coat check, and cookie decorating.
 
This wonderful event was enjoyed by all the families, Wellpoint Staff and volunteers.
 
Thank you, Jack, Kim, Jan, Darcy, Kate, Scott, Tom, Paul, Marie, Bill, Cathy, Christopher, Mark, Jackie, Greg, Jeanne, and Phyllis.
A Wonderful Holiday Gathering
Posted by William Selzer
 
Elmbrook Rotary members and guests gathered at a member’s home to bring gifts for 226 foster kids and celebrate the season of giving and peace on earth. Our hosts, Doug and Janie welcomed their guests on a cold blustery night to share in the joy of the season, and to enjoy a variety of great food items and beverages.
 
There was even an appearance by Santa to thank everyone for their generosity and wishing all a healthy and safe new year.
 
The next day, five members delivered the bounty of gifts that filled the room at Wellpoint Care Network, pictured above.
 
Thank you, Jack, Jeanne, Doug, and Janie, for planning and making this gift event one to remember, and for our members selfless giving to so many great causes over this past year.
How does the Elmbrook Rotary Embrace "Service Above Self"?
Posted by William Selzer
 
The Elmbrook Rotary Club currently has eighty members with a mix of newer and experienced Rotarians with a broad range of vocations. What is “Service Above Self” as it relates to the mission of Rotary? It is the guiding principle where members are encouraged to focus on serving their communities locally and globally. The motto conveys the idea that personal success is more closely tied to helping others than what you do for yourself.
 
Over this past year the Elmbrook Rotary has participated in many volunteer opportunities, projects and fundraising for the non-profit organizations we support locally and internationally. Here is a synopsis of some of our “Service Above Self” activities.
Read more...
Raghav Patel: An Ambassador of India
Posted by William Selzer
 
By Bill Petterson, Marie Owens, and Jim Dunn
 
This past year, our Rotary club had the privilege of hosting Raghav, an exchange student from Nagpur, India, as part of the Rotary Youth Exchange program.  Having him with us truly highlighted the global connections Rotary fosters, putting the "international" in Rotary International.  Raghav brought fresh perspectives, shared his culture, and built lifelong friendships, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who met him.  His time with us was a reminder of how the program unites people from different parts of the world, promoting understanding and peace.
Read more...
2024 Elmbrook Rotary Book Drive
Posted by William Selzer
By Jan Constable 
A Huge Success
Early this fall the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) kicked off their annual book drive with the goal of surpassing last year’s gift to Literacy Services of Wisconsin (LSW) of 500 books. As usual, the ERC Rotarian’s exceeded their goal. The books delivered to LSW this last week totaled 1,108.
Each year Rotarians collect new or gently used fiction, non-fiction, biographies, cookbooks, how to books and children’s books which are gifted to LSW. LSW gives books to their students for their reading pleasure and for reading to their children. Books not selected by the students are sold to a secondhand bookstore.
Read more...
Graduation Day
Posted by William Selzer
By Tom Curl
 
For the past 13 years, the Elmbrook Rotary Club has worked with Common Hope, a Minnesota-based organization dedicated to educating the children of Guatemala.  Some 97 of our members, family and friends, have made a combined 164 trips to Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to build simple houses and help social workers support students and their families.  Many of us have sponsored students.  Club coordinator Erik Moeser estimates that total contributions from our club, individual members and grants from Rotary District 6270 stand at about $478,000.
Read more...
Veterans in Focus
Posted by William Selzer
By Bonnie Bertram
 
November 22, 2024
 
Today, Erik and Carol Moeser, Bill Selzer, Kerri Richlen, Mark Zalewski and I attended the annual Meet and Greet Veteran participants in the Veterans in Focus photography group which our club has supported for the past 8 years.
We were introduced to Courtney Zeller, C.T.R.S, Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, by our former member, Daniel Zomchek, who at the time was Director of the Zablocki VA Medical Center.
 
The photography course is offered to Veterans in the Outpatient Mental Health Recreation Therapy and Homeless Prevention Programs. Courtney’s idea for the photography group came from her in-home visits to Veterans, many of whom did not have any pictures hanging on their walls. At the end of the photography classes, Veterans are able to choose a framed photograph to take home.
Read more...
Lighting in Purple... the Daniel W. Hoan Bridge
Posted by William Selzer
 
On Thursday October 24th, Rotarians from Milwaukee, Elmbrook and local area clubs gathered to view the lighting of the Hoan Bridge, in recognition of Rotary International’s mission to eradicate polio worldwide. After the group photo, the Milwaukee club hosted a hors d’ oeuvres and drinks, get-to-gather at Sail Loft.
Highway Clean Up
Posted by William Selzer
 
An Elmbrook Rotary crew spent a couple of hours picking up discarded items along Greenfield Ave., demonstrating the Rotary motto “Service Above Self”.
Remembering Those Who have Served
Posted by William Selzer
 
Veterans Day, celebrated annually on November 11th, honors the military veterans who have served in the United States Armed Forces. It was originally known as Armistice Day, marking the end of World War I, which officially concluded on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. This day is dedicated to recognizing and appreciating the sacrifices and service of all U.S. military veterans.
Veterans Day is celebrated in various ways, including:
  • Parades and public ceremonies
  • Wreath-laying ceremonies at memorials and cemeteries
  • Speeches and events honoring veterans
  • Educational activities in schools
It's a time for the nation to come together to express gratitude for the bravery and dedication of those who have served.
Ride to End Polio
Posted by William Selzer
 
By Mark Zalewski
 
On Saturday October 26th - 16 hearty Elmbrook Rotarians and friends dragged themselves out of bed to participate in the 4th annual Elmbrook Rotary Triathlon to End Polio.
 
The first event - The "Ham Egg & Pancake Throwdown" - saw the entrants attacking copious plant and animal-based items, washed down with unlimited amounts of brown liquid in preparation for the additional events.   Of special note was Jim Dunn's "Herbivore Bowl" which for some reason was also topped with 3 eggs 
 
The event took its toll however - with only 9 of the original 16 starters continuing on to the 2nd event - The 12.25-mile overland bike ride to the Zablocki VA Center.   
 
Nobody wound up in the hospital this year - and 6 riders managed to complete the full (1 hill) course to return O'Donoghue's for the final event.
 
The Final Stage - The "Guinness Pint Glass Lift and Chili Scooping" had all six remaining participants, led by President Tom - finishing in a virtual tie.
 
With the real winners being the Kids of a world where Polio will finally be eradicated.
 
So Thanks - and Well Done - to all who came out on Saturday
 
Thanks everyone for your commitment to Rotary and to your community... Elmbrook Rotary Club - "We Rise and Shine"
A Day of Sharing
Posted by William Selzer
 
On October 31st, a group of volunteers from the Elmbrook Rotary Club read books to approximately 100 children from St. St. Mary Margaret School at the Wellpoint Campus.
Rotary International: The Big Picture
Posted by William Selzer
 
By Lydia Miller
 
This week, I had the incredible opportunity to visit the Rotary International headquarters in Evanston, IL. The timing couldn’t have been better; it was a stunning fall day, with the sunlight glistening on Lake Michigan. Most meaningfully, it was the day before World Polio Day. In front of the Rotary building is a statue of a man administering the polio vaccine to children and it speaks volumes about the impact Rotarians have worldwide. It serves as a powerful reminder that when we come together, we can achieve remarkable things.
 
Read more...
2025 Guatemala Water Project
Posted by William Selzer
 
By Doug Jacobson
 
In the highlands of Guatemala people washing their clothes in a stream is a daily task. As is carrying water in buckets from the same stream, sometimes for several miles, then gathering firewood to boil the water before it might be safe to drink. Disease from waterborne contaminants is widespread, and in some cases patients in hospitals are forced to bring their own water because the local hospital does not have clean water. Clean, safe water, a commodity we take for granted, is unknown for thousands of the proud, hard-working people of Guatemala.
Read more...
2024 Business Person of the Year
Posted by William Selzer
 
By Ralph Gould
 
On October 18th, Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) announced that Tina Chang, Chairman & CEO of Brookfield-Based SysLogic was the recipient of ERC’s 8th Business Person of the Year award.  Tina was selected from a number of candidates proposed by Brookfield Mayor Steve Ponto for demonstrating significant contributions to her business as well as demonstrating strong community involvement.
 
Tina has been serving clients for over 28 years in the areas of Technology Strategy & Digital Transformation, Information Management & Business Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Software Development. Tina has maintained a strong background in business leadership and technology innovation, and she has leveraged SysLogic to launch four technology start-ups (SysSpark, LLC, Cyberspect, LLC, WillBridge, LTD, and Ghostscale, LLC). Prior to SysLogic, Tina worked for Andersen Consulting (Accenture), where she served as a business analyst and consultant to Fortune 500 companies. 
Read more...
LAUNCH... "A Hands-on Experience"
Posted by William Selzer
 
The LAUNCH program at Brookfield East High School is an innovative, profession-based learning initiative designed for high school juniors and seniors. It provides students with opportunities to engage in real-world projects and tasks related to their future career interests. Here are some key features of the program:
  • Career-Based Learning: Students work on projects in collaboration with local businesses and professionals, gaining hands-on experience in various fields.
  • Interdisciplinary Approach: The program integrates core academic subjects like math, science, and English with professional tasks, allowing students to earn credits while exploring their career interests.
  • Community Engagement: LAUNCH students often showcase their projects to business professionals and community members, fostering a strong connection between the school and the local community.
Read more...
Fraud and Financial Crimes
Posted by William Selzer
 
Robert Schuldes, Senior Vice President Director of Financial Crime for Associated Bank Fraud Division updated the Elmbrook Rotary members on current scams and how to avoid being a target and victim.
Watch for red flags
“Fraudsters are especially active during times of uncertainty, trying to take advantage of fear, empathy and desire for more information. The types of communications vary, so it is critical you look for any red flags with emails, phone calls, letters, text messages, faxes and social media.”
Read more...
An Inclusive Play Space for All
Posted by William Selzer
 
The Partnership between the City of Brookfield, Elmbrook Rotary, and other gracious donors has brough the vison of an all-inclusive playground to Wirth Park. On a beautiful evening, John Kelliher and Mayor Steve Ponto welcomed and recognized the Staff, Playground Committee, City Council members, Friends of the Park and Recreation, local business/individual donors, and the Elmbrook Rotary for their $100,000 donation to the project. A large crowd of playground enthusiast attended the opening… eager to try out the numerous engaging pieces of equipment set in a cushioned base, providing “an extra layer of safety, making it a worry-free environment for active play”.
The playground committee was assigned the task of raising $300,000, to date…  $301,152.72 has been raised… the goal has been met, thank you for making this a reality!!!
Read more...
Depolarize and Come Together
Posted by William Selzer
 
Braver Angels (formerly known as Better Angels) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to political depolarization in the United States. Founded in 2016, its mission is to bring Americans together to bridge the partisan divide and strengthen democratic values. They organize workshops, debates, and other events where people with differing political views can engage in meaningful conversations and better understand each other's perspectives.
 
Former Rotarian, Beth Bauer, the new State Coordinator for Braver Angles shared the organization’s mission and vision of how-to bring people together on all sides of the political spectrum.
Read more...
Safety. Shelter. Support.
Posted by William Selzer
 
On Friday Sept. 20, the Elmbrook Rotary Club morning meeting was hosted by the Woman’s Center in Waukesha. Executive Director Faith Holly Beal and Mike Hogan in charge of Management/Operations, welcomed the group and provided the history, mission, and a tour of the facility.
 
The Women’s Center provides a range of services aimed at supporting and empowering individuals affected by domestic abuse, sexual violence, child abuse, and trafficking regardless of age, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, nationality, or immigration status.
 
“Our vision is to create an engaged community that does not tolerate or accept interpersonal violence and provides abundant resources to ensure futures free of violence.”
Read more...
Sounds of Hollywood
Posted by William Selzer
 
On a beautiful sunny Saturday afternoon at the Hart Park Rotary Stage in Wauwatosa, the Medical College of Wisconsin Orchestra in conjunction with the Wauwatosa Rotary, presented “Sounds of Hollywood”. The concert highlighted the works from well-known composers; Henry Mancini, John Barry, Jerry Goldsmith, Hans Zimmer and John Williams who wrote the scores for Chariots of Fire, Star Wars, Gladiator, Pirates of the Caribbean, Star Trek, 007 and others.
They also included a segment of jazz tunes, and a fantastic clarinetist, William Helmers, accompanied by the orchestra.
Conductor, Dr. Alexander Mandl provided the audience with an engaging introduction for each selection. This two-hour concert was a tribute to a number of great composers, performed by a talented consortium of musicians from MCW.
Read more...
Partners in Food
Posted by William Selzer
 
Every Saturday during the harvest season, the Brookfield Farmers Market highlights local vendors and growers from 7:30 – noon in the Brookfield Central parking lot. Elmbrook Rotary is a partner with the Market and the Salvation Army Food Pantry. Around noon a member fromthe Elmbrook Rotary collects donated produce at the Market’s to be given to the Waukesha County Food Pantry.
The generosity of the fresh produce given by Market Vendors is truly appreciated by those who are served by the Pantry.
Read more...
Nine Win... the Luck of the Draw
Posted by William Selzer
 
 
 
On Friday September 7th, the Elmbrook Rotary Annual Packer Ticket Raffle drawing took place. Nine community members won two tickets to an upcoming home game at Lambeau Field.
Congratulation to:
  • Colts – Sunday Sept. 15th – James Doyle
  • Vikings – Sunday Sept. 29th – Steve Coartney
  • Cardinals - Sunday Oct. 13th – Nadya Tenges
  • Texans – Sunday Oct. 20th – Brad Ewald
  • Lions – Sunday Nov. 3rd – Justin Schoepke
  • 49ners - Sunday Nov. 20th – Gary Allmers
  • Dolphins – Thursday Nov. 28th – Kay Noman
  • Saints – Monday Dec. 23rd – Tom Curl
  • Bears – Day and Time TBD – Beth Mattes
A big thank you to our Raffle Leader and Organizer Karl Schulz, and fellow members, who sold tickets at the Saturday morning Brookfield Farmers Market.  And, thank you to all our members who sold and purchased tickets.
 
100% of the proceeds go to funding the community and international non-profit organizations we support!
Milwaukee Rep Powering Milwaukee... Our Theatre, Our Community, Our Future
Posted by William Selzer
 
At a recent meeting, Milwaukee Rep Theatre Executive Director Chad Bauman, reviewed the past, present and future of this great theatre company. Chad recently was named the non-profit executive of the year and is a member of the Milwaukee Rotary Club. His presentation covered the early beginnings, continual growth, and the current remodeling project.
Read more...
Bridge to Brighter
Posted by William Selzer
 
Elmbrook Rotary Club member Nick Sgarlata is the Executive Director of Bridge to Brighter. At the Friday morning meeting, Nick shared stories about the mission, vision and history of this great organization. Nick and his wife Carrie are foster adoptive parents. They have fostered 15 children, adopted two, and have three biological kids.
 
Bridge to Brighter is an organization dedicated to supporting youth in and aging out of foster care in Milwaukee County. They provide vital services, resources, and programming to help these young individuals transition successfully into adulthood. Their focus is on building independence and self-sufficiency through life skills training and supportive housing. 
Read more...
Reading: A Way to a Better Life
Posted by William Selzer
 
“Reading is the most important skill we have in life.”
Brian Floriani shared his life story and journey that brought him to the founding of Bernie’s Book Bank, a non-profit organization that is named after his avid reading father. As he began his career as an elementary school teacher, in a under resourced community outside of Chicago, Brian realized how critical literacy is, and how this transformative time in a child’s life, effects the rest of their life. He embraced the impact of literacy, and in 2009, started Bernie’s Book Bank out of his garage, with $5,000 on his credit card, in hopes to make a difference in the lives of children without books.
“The vision is where every child has equal access to books and the opportunities they inspire.”
Read more...
Summer Highway Cleanup
Posted by Paul Langer
 
Six Elmbrook Rotarians performed the Summer Adopt-A-Highway Cleanup on August 22. In 2022, The Elmbrook Rotary Club adopted a section of State Highway 59, also known as Greenfield Avenue, in the southwest corner of Brookfield. The Adopt-A-Highway initiative is one of the efforts of the Club’s Community Service avenue of service. We are pleased to have this project and to contribute to the health and aesthetics of our community.
Read more...
Nation Building in Afghanistan
Posted by William Selzer
 
Another great presentation at the Friday morning ERC Sunrise Meeting.
Our speaker, Bethany Rentsch, studied terrorism at the University of St Andrews in Scotland, lectured at the University of Leipzig in Germany, and taught young girls English and social responsibility in Palestine.  She was recruited as a US Military advisor for the NATO mission in Afghanistan where she worked as a contractor trainer for 16 months.
 
Bethany shared her story of “Nation Building in Afghanistan: How it Began, Why it Failed, and What Happens Next”
Read more...
Rise and Shine 
Posted by William Selzer
 
This article highlights several recent Club activities.  Community members are welcome to join us at any of our events... check out our website calendar for up-coming Friday morning speakers, club projects and activities.
Get your Packer Raffle Tickets! Tickets can be purchased at the Rotary Table at the Brookfield Farmers Market on Saturdays from 7:30am to noon. Tickets can also be purchased from any Elmbook Rotary Club member, or by contacting Karl Schultz at kschulz2@gmail.com. “For only $10, a single Raffle Ticket gives you 9 chances to win 2 tickets to one of the 9 home games at the famous “Frozen Tundra” and every penny goes to support needs in our community and beyond",.. supporting our 35 plus community and international non-profit organizations.
Read more...
Meals from the Heart: Nourishing Families in Need
Posted by William Selzer
 
What Is “Meals from the Heart”?
“Meals from the Heart” is a beautiful program that embodies compassion, community, and sustenance. At RMHC, it’s not just about providing shelter; it’s about creating a home-away-from-home for families facing challenging times. When a child is receiving medical treatment far from their own home, the burden can be overwhelming. That’s where “Meals from the Heart” steps in.
How Does It Work?
Read more...
Wirth Park Playground Renovation
Posted by William Selzer
 
The City of Brookfield Wirth Park Playground Renovation Project is almost complete and looking great! This project is all about providing “a space for leisure and play for all abilities and ages”. The playground is designed with inclusive features allowing the opportunity to play and socialize together.
 
The Elmbrook Rotary Club is a major sponsor of this project serving the community providing funding and local support.
 
Recently, John Kelliher, Director of Parks, Recreation and Forestry for the City of Brookfield, pointed out the signs recognizing the Club’s contributions to this worthy community project. He also mentioned the plan for an additional Elmbrook Rotary recognition sign along the walk leading from the parking lot to the playground.
 
Stay tuned for the Grand Opening.
Read more...
ShelterBox: A Beacon of Hope in Times of Crisis
Posted by William Selzer
 
ShelterBox is a remarkable organization founded with a simple yet powerful vision: to provide emergency shelter and essential supplies to people affected by disasters and humanitarian crises worldwide. Since its inception in 2000, ShelterBox has been a beacon of hope for those who find themselves displaced, vulnerable, and in urgent need of assistance.
Fellow Kenosha Club Rotarian Fran Wargolet shared her passion, commitment, and history with the ShelterBox organization. She thanked the Elmbrook Rotary Club for their past support and funding for this great cause.
Recently, Fran and her daughter participated in a fundraising 30-mile hike around Yosemite National Park for ShelterBox. To date they have raised $16,000… congratulations and thank you!
 
The history and impact of ShelterBox:
Read more...
Democracy and Governance
Posted by William Selzer
 
The World Affairs Seminar, “Peace Through Understanding” is a “unique interactive educational program for high school students sponsored by Rotary International District 6270. It is a weeklong experience providing an opportunity for international students to discuss issues in a non-threatening environment.”
The Seminar was started in 1977 with over 30,000 future world leaders participating in this great program. For many years, Elmbrook Rotary has sponsored two delegates from Brookfield East High School.
At a recent meeting, Doug Jacobson introduced Brinnly Ward and Ava Hicks, the clubs two representatives to the 2024 World Affairs Seminar that recently took place at Carroll University. The theme this year was “Democracy and Governance: Evolving Global Perspectives”.  Brinnly and Ava thanked the club for their sponsorship, gave a synopsis of the Diplomacy Simulation exercise, including highlights of their experience of collaboration and international friendship building.
Read more...
ERC Assists at Bikes for Stripes Summer Resource Fair
Posted on Jun 17, 2024
 
The Milwaukee Homeless Veterans Initiative (MHVI) has been providing services to veterans since 2008. In the past three years, the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation has provided mini-grants to the MHVI's "Bikes for Stripes" program. On Flag Day, June 14, 2024, seven club members and family members from the Elmbrook Rotary Club donated 24 hours of service to the "Bikes for Stripes Summer Resource Fair" at the West Allis Farmers Market.
 
A total of 82 bicycles were received by veterans who waited in a long line to register and to receive a bicycle.
 
    
 
In addition to MHVI staff, some 14 partner organizations were also present, providing free gifts and services to the veterans.
 
    
 
ERC participants helped by readying the bicycles, serving food and drinks, and distributing many other free gifts.
 
 
Thanks to the following for their participation and hard work:  John Allen, Christoph & Larry Myers, Jack Nelson, Bill Selzer, and Evonne & Mark Zalewski. They demonstrated "Service Above Self" in order to "Create Hope in the World."
Read more...
2024 Wellpoint Community Garden
 
On June 4th, Wellpoint Care network launched their 2024 vegetable and flower Community Garden season. Children from St. Margaret Mary School were in attendance along with representatives Jack Nelson and Bill Selzer from the Elmbrook Rotary Club, and Wellpoint Staff were in attendance. 
The group was welcomed by Alex Williams and the Wellpoint Garden Team. The Team recently completed 9 raised planting beds, three of them set for kids and six taller beds that are accessible for walkers and wheelchairs. Thank you, Bed Builders; Jack Nelson, Tom Curl, Thomas Steinbach, Kerri Richlen, Mark Thurner, and Bill Selzer were thanked for their hard work and craftsmanship. Blessing Clark from Wellpoint was also a member of the construction crew.
The activities included:
  • The dedication of three raised beds, in recognition of the Elmbrook Rotary Club for their dedication and support of the Wellpoint Care Community Garden, along with Jack Nelson and Bill Selzer for their involvement in this project. Permanent metal plaques will be installed on three of the beds.
  • Children colored pictures of flowers and plants, then planted annual flowers in the new beds.
The Community Garden Team looks forward to the completion of the MMSD project, and development of in ground garden plots, and a Peace Garden giving staff and residents a tranquil place to enjoy.
 
To view the Wellpoint Garden event article thanking the Elmbrook Rotary, click on this link:
https://wellpointcare.org/media-and-events/blog-stories/volunteers-the-catalyst-behind-wellpoint-care-networks-mobile-garden-beds
 
 
 
 
Memorial Day... Honoring Those Who Gave Their Lives
Posted by William Selzer
 
On Monday, May 27th, our country remembered and mourned those who have lost their lives fighting for our freedom, and celebrated, for all those who have served and are serving in our armed forces today.
The Elmbrook Rotary members, families, and friends recognized this day at a gathering at John and Jeanne Allen’s home to watch the Elm Grove Memorial Day Parade. After the parade, a potluck lunch was shared.
 
Thank you to Jeanne and John for hosting, and all those who attended and brought great food to share.
New Member... Kurt Schley
Posted by William Selzer
 
On April 19th, President Chris Spresser inducted Kurt Schley into the fellowship of the Elmbrook Rotary club and Rotary International, serving throughout the world. Kurt, President of Elmbrook Hospital, was proposed by Steve Ponto for membership, who presented Kurt with the Rotary lapel pin.
“With the motto Service Above Self, the object of the club and all Rotary clubs is to encourage and foster this ideal as a basis of worthy enterprise.”
 
Welcome Kurt to the Embrook Rotary club!
Welcome... New Member Induction
Posted by William Selzer
 
On Friday April 5th, David Weinberg was inducted into the Elmbrook Rotary Club and Rotary International. President Chris Spresser requested Lucas Severson to present the Rotary pin, representing the ideals of Rotary to David.
“Service Above Self, the Object of this club, and all Rotary Clubs, is to encourage and foster this ideal as a basis for worthy enterprise.”
Welcome David, to the Elmbrook Rotary Club!
"Every Student, All the Time, Every Time"
Posted by William Selzer
 
Dr. Mark Hansen, Elmbrook School Superintendent, presented his annual update to the club on the Elmbrook School District’s recent accomplishments and programs. Dr. Hansen has served the district since 2012 and has seen the system flourish and grow both academically and socially.  Recently, he received the State Superintendent of the Year Award for 2024… Congratulations Dr. Hansen!
The School District of Elmbrook’s “Mission is to educate and inspire every student to think, to learn, and to succeed… with the Vision and Core Values to inspire the work of our students, staff and community as we prepare all students for success”.
 “We have amazing results across the system.”
Read more...
2023 Common Hope Graduation Ceremony
Posted by William Selzer
 
Bill and Fe Pettersen along with Marie Owens and Todd Hill reported on the 2023 Graduation, of Elmbrook Rotary sponsored students. Bill and Fe have followed the educational journey of their student, Evelyn Roxana, from 7th grade to high school graduation. She graduated with special training to become a chef and is interning in a restaurant while working in a factory.
Over the years, Elmbrook Rotary has been involved in Guatemala by sponsoring students, building homes and providing other health and education related services on their annual pilgrimage with Common Hope.
Read more...
"Developing a Space for Leisure and Play for All Abilities and Ages"
Posted by William Selzer
John Kelliher, Director of Parks, Recreation and Forestry for the City of Brookfield gave a presentation on the Wirth Park Playground Renovation Project, planned for construction this spring.
Over the years the Park and Recreation Programs have grown, providing “Children and families spending time together… that is what relationship building is all about”. 
The City of Brookfield is excited to announce the Wirth Park Playground Renovation Project. The playground will be designed with inclusive features allowing all ages and abilities the opportunity to play and socialize together.
Read more...
Project ADAM (Automatic Defibrillators in Adam's Memory)
Posted by William Selzer
Jodi Wenzel, Project Coordinator for the ADAM Project has practiced as a pediatric nurse at Childrens Wisconsin Hospital for 15 years. At the Friday meeting she shared her passion, knowledge of Sudden Cardiac Arrest, and the evolution of the ADAM Project. 
In 1999, a 17-year-old athlete, Adam Lemel, collapsed by sudden cardiac arrest while playing basketball. CPR was started and 911 called. At that time there were no AEDs available at the school, or a practice plan in place. EMS personnel arrived and were unable to revive Adam… he passed away on the court. As a result of the tragic loss of their son, Joe and Patty Lemel worked with Childrens Hospital of Wisconsin to develop Project ADAM (Automatic Defibrillators in Adam’s Memory). Lumel’s continuing to advocate for Project ADAM, keeping Adam’s memory alive and his legacy has prevented over 200 sudden cardiac deaths.
Read more...
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Members of the 2019 Guatemala Vision Team stand in front of the house they built in February along with the Ventura family who will be living there!
About Elmbrook Rotary
Elmbrook Rotary Club was founded by 26 Brookfield and Elm Grove, Wisconsin, USA business leaders to promote fellowship as a foundation for community service, ethical ideals and the advancement of international understanding, goodwill and peace. Elmbrook Rotary Club is also proud to sponsor The Brookfield East High School Interact Club, a service oriented group of high school students. Our mailing address is: Elmbrook Rotary, P.O. Box 1014, Brookfield WI 53008-1014.
 
ERC Peace Initiative
Elmbrook Rotary Club has embarked upon a "Peace Building Project."
 
 
Announced and previewed on Friday, October 18, the project will stretch over multiple years as the club and its membership engage in peace building in Milwaukee.
 
View the embedded video from the Rotary Action Group for Peace. If not viewable, follow the URL linked to "Rotary: Peace Is . . ."
 
For a detailed look at ERC's peace initiative, view the PDF entitled "ERC Peace Building Project." Above all, stay tuned and become involved as the project unfolds.
Rotary 2024-2025 Theme
 
 
Thank You 2024/2025 Club Sponsors :
ERC Calendar
January 2025
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The Elmbrook Rotary 2025 Business Person of the Year Award will honor a strong local leader who has entrepreneurial skills and strategic vision. Honorees are majority owner and/or operating head of a successful, for-profit business or non-profit organization. Additionally, they must be living in and/or have a business located in the City/Town of Brookfield or Village of Elm Grove.
This award was established in 2017 by the Elmbrook Rotary Club to shine a spotlight on an individual in our Elmbrook community who has demonstrated:
*Service-mindedness
*Significant, measurable contributions to his/her industry, service organization or charity
*Significant community involvement
*Strong customer service skills
*Effective leadership qualities
 2024 Business Person of the Year Recipient
Tina Chang, Chairman & CEO of Brookfield-Based Syslogic is the 2024 Business Person of the Year. She has strong community involvement, serving on various boards and foundations in the greater Milwaukee area. Thank you for your leadership, contributions to technology, and support of community service.
Established in 1983, the Elmbrook Rotary Club has been active in our community for 40 years and is a part of Rotary International founded in 1905. The Club is an energetic group of more than 80 individuals with a wide range of backgrounds from business professionals to community leaders to those dedicated to public service.
A committee will review candidate/s submitted by the Mayor of Brookfield or the President of the Village of Elm Grove by alternating years. The Elmbrook Rotary Club will publicly announce and honor the award winner at a Friday morning meeting in October 2025, 7-8a.m. at San Camillus East building in Wauwatosa.
 
 
 

 

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Rotary Four-Way Test
Of the things we think, say or do:
  1. Is it the truth?
  2. Is it fair to all concerned?
  3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
  4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned?
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Rotary's Four Way Test

Of the things we think, say or do:

  1. Is it the truth?
  2. Is it fair to all concerned?
  3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
  4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Service Above Self

- See more at: http://portal.clubrunner.ca/5700/#sthash.YgEI863i.dpuf

Of the things we think, say or do:

  1. Is it the truth?
  2. Is it fair to all concerned?
  3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
  4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Service Above Self

- See more at: http://portal.clubrunner.ca/5700/#sthash.YgEI863i.dpuf

Of the things we think, say or do:

  1. Is it the truth?
  2. Is it fair to all concerned?
  3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
  4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Service Above Self

- See more at: http://portal.clubrunner.ca/5700/#sthash.YgEI863i.dpuf
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 SUPPORT  THE 
 ELMBROOK   ROTARY   FOUNDATION 
Speakers
Bruce Korus & Dr. JoAnne Hill
Jan 17, 2025
Family Physician Innovation in Employee Health
Launch Team/Elmbrook Rotary New Members
Jan 24, 2025 7:00 AM
Launch Team Presentation/Ali & Mia Classification Talks
Marquette EWB Students
Jan 31, 2025 7:00 AM
EWB-Marquette Work in Guatemala
Kola Alayande, Ph.D., Outreach Chair SCORE SE WI
Feb 07, 2025
Introduction to the SCORE Mentors Organization
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Our Meeting Location
Whether you're a visiting Rotarian or someone interested in finding out what Rotary's all about, please feel free to join us on Friday Mornings. You'll receive a hearty welcome - plus a whole lot more!
 

WHEN: Elmbrook Rotary Club is a breakfast club that meets every Friday from 7:00-8:00 AM
 
WHERE: 

St. Camillus – East Residence Tower

10100 W. Bluemound Road

Wauwatosa, WI 53226

COST: $7 Breakfast
 
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Club Officers
President
Thomas Steinbach
Vice President
David Engle
President Elect
David Engle
President Elect Nominee
Bill Petterson
Secretary
Bill Petterson
Treasurer
Mark Zalewski
Executive Secretary / Director
David Engle
Sergeant-at-Arms
Greg Bonk
Immediate Past President
Harry Farchmin
Director (Class of (2025)
Jack Nelson
Director (Class of (2026)
John Allen
Director (Class of (2026)
Lydia Miller
Director (Class of (2027)
Bill Selzer
Director (Class of (2027)
Lucas Severson
Director (Past President-Class of 2025)
Wally Smanski
Community Service
Ian Smith
Membership
Mark Thurner
International Service
Erik Moeser
Programs
Ralph Gould
Public Image Chair
Bill Selzer
The Rotary Foundation
Tom Curl
Major Fundraising
Harry Farchmin
Vocational Service
Dave Urban
Club Service Projects Chair
Ian Smith
In Recognition . . .
 
The Elmbrook Rotary Club and Foundation are pleased to recognize the following individuals.
 
Foundation Director Emeritus:
     William Isbister (deceased)
 
Club Honorary Members:
Honorary members are those who have distinguished themselves by meritorious service and embody Rotary ideals, or those considered friends of Rotary for their support of Rotary's causes. ERC honorary members are Scott Dryburgh, Tom Ehrsam, Ron Jones,  Jane Koons, & Renato Westby.
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