Elmbrook Rotary Club News
Our Green Bay Packer Ticket Raffle Fundraiser is Back!
Posted by Steven Stocker on Aug 04, 2022

Looking for a chance to WIN tickets to a Green Bay home game during the 2022 season - and help needy organizations and causes at the same time? Club President Harry Farchmin is urging everyone to do their part in buying and selling Packer raffle tickets during our 7th Annual Green Bay Packer Raffle Ticket Fundraiser from now through September 9! Donations will go to the programs and organizations we support in Brookfield, Elm Grove, and around the world!
 
Read more...
Elmbrook Rotary August Social 
Posted by Chris Salini on Aug 19, 2022
Elmbrook Rotary August Social
Each month the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) meets outside our traditional Friday morning meetings for fellowship in the community. On August 8, 2022, several Rotarians met at Greenfield park for stories, laughs, and refreshments. 
 
 
   
 
 
(one may notice, those who provide content get featured in our Club communications :))
 
 
Rotary is all about doing good in our world. At the same time, it's about what we do while we're doing good. Please check us out for a meeting of a social event! 
Bridge Builders Inc - Transforming Neighborhoods Block by Block 
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on Aug 17, 2022
Bridge Builders Inc - Transforming Neighborhoods Block by Block
On August 12, 2022 the Elmbook Rotary Club (ERC) was visited by Kurt Owens of Bridge Buiders Inc. 
 
Kurt talked about the ground up approach Bridge Builders uses to empower the people of the communities they serve block by block vs. relying solely on governance. The ways they are empowering the communities they serve is by keeping good housing stock, leveraging the available workforce, dovetailing efforts with other non-profits, create full time neighbors, and revive community owned businesses. 
 
Their current project is raising funds to buy 20 homes and make them "Lighthouse" properties, or properties where a full time neighbor who is dedicated to the community lives. 
 
To learn more, please visit their website: https://bridgebuildersmke.org/ and to learn more about Rotary, please join us for a 7a meeting. 
Adopt A Highway
Posted by Paul Langer on Aug 07, 2022
Adopt A Highway

On August 6, 2022 the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) launched it's inaugural cleanup of Greenfield Avenue, (Hwy 59), between Barker Road and Hwy 164.

Paul Sawicki, Chris Salani, Phil Landry and son, Jeanne Allen, Paul Langer, John Allen Rick Chabot and Rick's son-in-law David. Bill Petterson behind the camera. They collected 5 bags of trash plus several larger objects. 

The next cleanup date will be in October. If you're interested in talking trash, please see Paul Langer. 

Elmbrook Rotary Club Assembly
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on Aug 07, 2022
Elmbrook Rotary Club Assembly
On August 5, 2022 the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) held an assembly to reflect on how the club is upholding the 4 way test of what we think, and do. We looked for ways we can provide a better Rotary experience for everyone, and enjoy our own time with Rotary all the more.  
 
The common themes were finding more ways to get to know Rotarians, both in meetings and outside of them. We also had calls for better communication on upcoming service projects and working professional programing our presentations. 
 
Our breakout sessions allowed us to identify opportunities to grow as a club, as well as offer solutions to our concerns. 
 
Please stay tuned for meeting time and place where all ERC members are encouraged to help us Image a 2022-2023 Rotary year. Members will work though these and other items, and work to be intentional in making this Rotary year one to remember. 
 
ERC Awards Scholarships
Posted by Dan Roads on Aug 02, 2022
ERC Awards Scholarships
The Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) is active in many different areas of our community. Sometimes there are projects at the Women’s Center we can help with. Other times Rotarians will commit to weekly volunteering and helping students with their literacy skills. Today’s report is on seeds (scholarships), that we hope will bloom into impactful careers.  The ERC awarded 3 scholarships to worthy recipients.
 
A $1000 scholarship paid each year for four years went to Sarah Astley from Brookfield Central High School who will attend UW- Stevens Point.A $1000 scholarship paid each year for four years went to Adriga Bhattacharyya from Brookfield East who will attend UW- Milwaukee.A $1000 scholarship paid each year for two years went to Charles Benjamin Fleming who will attend Waukesha County Technical College. This scholarship is specific to a student entering a two year program in a field that relates to a First Responder status. The scholarship is funded by Elmbrook Rotary Club to honor the 40+ years of service that retired Fire Chief William (Bill) Selzer gave to the Elmbrook Community.Dr. Thomas Arndt, President of the Elmbrook Rotary Club presented all three scholarships at the respective school’s Senior Honors Night at the end of the school year.
 
If getting involved with any area of our community is of interest, please reach out us via our website: https://elmbrookrotary.org/. Membership info is under the join tab.  
ERC Announces Total Charitable Contributions 2021 - 2022 
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on Aug 02, 2022
ERC Announces Total Charitable Contributions 2021 - 2022
The Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) ended it's 2021-2022 fiscal year on June 30th, 2022. This was the completion of a year where we saw in- person meetings return, favorite projects and events renewed, and new service opportunities surface. This year has pulled our club together, and we had lots to celebrate. 
 
Service projects are a big part of what the ERC does each year. The other facet is the charitable contributions our members and community leaders make. These donations are raised by a mixture of fundraising events such as Spikes for Tykes, a silent auction, and our upcoming fundraiser, and the upcoming raffle for Packers tickets to home games in 2022. 
 
In 2021 - 2022 the ERC had one of the largest donation totals in recent memory. The $154,514.62 reflects both the efficacy of fundraising efforts, and also the size of the club's heart. The club often added several hundred more dollars to a donation when the "hat gots passed" to help out. 
 
 
The ERC is grateful for the  opportunity to strengthen those around us, both with service effort, and with intentional donation. 
 
If you are interested in connecting with our local Rotarians, getting involved in a service project, or donating to a cause that  is special to you, please connect with our membership chair John Allen at jallen@jallengroup.com. 
Sargent Shakedown Spotted
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on Aug 02, 2022
Sargent Shakedown Spotted
There's a new Sheriff, I mean, a new Sargent in town, and he means business.
 
On July 29, 2022, it appears Sargent at Arms Dave Engle delivered back to back to back to back fines to unsuspecting Rotarians. Some were the variety that we expect (late fines, pin fines) and some were blatant money grabs (like accusing and fining a member for not wearing their name badge... while that member wore their name badge...) Either way, another few dozen dollars were raised because we lacked some attention to detail. 
 
A note to newer members. The Sargent at Arms has special authority to hand out fines to members who are not keeping Rotary as crisp as it could be. Those fines could be for:
 
  • Forgetting to wear your Rotary pin
  • Not having a name badge on
  • Being late
  • Leaving early
  • Not completing a "full" happy table
This list is not inclusive, and some have been fined for something off the wall.
 
The spirit idea behind the fines is keeping everyone focused on taking pride in being a Rotarian, respecting the time of the other members, and maybe get Happy fines going if it's a slow start.  
 
Please keep an eye out for Sargent Shakedown... and wear your pin! 
 
Discovering the Town of Brookfield 
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on Jul 27, 2022
Discovering the Town of Brookfield
On July 22, the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) welcomed Anna Antoine, Town of Brookfield Tourism Director.
 
Anna outlines the areas where City of Brookfield & Town of Brookfield meet, and let us know of the coming accommodations to the area. Wimmer Properties is extending their luxury apartments on the corner of Barker & Bluemound and on that same intersection a Tribute by Marriot will be completed by 2024.  
 
Ms. Antoine also updated us on upcoming events at the Corners like their food truck festival and Brooktoberfest.  
   
                       
 
If you would like to get the Town of Brookfield newsletter, click here. 
 
If you would like to learn all of this information first hand, please join us for a Friday morning meeting. 
Help Requested for 2022 Packer Raffle 
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on Jul 20, 2022
Help Requested for 2022 Packer Raffle
Service clubs are built around volunteering time in a community to strengthen it, and to donate funds to organizations, allowing them to do their work more effectively. 
 
This is an opportunity to partake in both aspects of service!
 
Our Saturday mornings 7:30a-12p, there is a Farmer's Market in Brookfield (16900 Gebhardt Rd, Brookfield, WI)
 

At that Farmers Market the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) will be both selling raffle tickets for the Packer's home games this season, as well as sharing what Rotary is, how we help our community, and how interested folks can get involved. 
 
Volunteering for this project allows the opportunity to grow our club and grow relationships inside our club, as well as collect proceeds from the raffle to continue supporting the 40+ organizations the ERC works with. 
 
David Irwin has stepped up to organize and oversee the raffle this year.
 
Please reach out to him with interest and questions. Mike Groth of the Community Service board and Steve Stocker, long time organizer of this event, are also available to answer questions, talk strategy, and share how fun this event is to be a part of! 
Classification talks July 8, 2022
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on Jul 15, 2022
Classification talks July 8, 2022
Classification talks are among Rotarian's favorite meeting outlines. A member of the club shares a bit about their past, what drew them to Rotary, and what they are looking forward to accomplishing. On July 8 the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) was fortunate to learn more about Julie Couden & Emily Jones. 
 
 
Julie grew up in New Berlin, traveled the world, and has circled back to where she started. She's always been inquisitive, and she's allowed that curiosity lead her the Wartburg College to pursue a degree in social work. Curiosity then led her to Africa to study health, water, and disease, and then to China to work in tech before landing in her newest adventure... sales. 
 
 
Emily Jones is used to having to think on the fly. As a mom, a teacher, and a black belt, she has to be ready for anything at all times. When she needed to be at work vs. in person for her talk, she flipped over to Zoom and didn't miss a step.
 
Emily studied Spanish abroad in Salamanca, Spain and loves teaching Spanish. She works at Tosa East as a Spanish teacher and enjoys volunteering locally with her church and Rotary, as well donating her time as far away as Costa Rica. A fun fact about Emily is she is the youngest of 11 siblings. 
Addressing Anger with Serenity 
Addressing Anger with Serenity
On July 15, the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) welcomed Kenneth Ginlack, CEO of Serenity Inns of Milwaukee.
 
Ken shared that being in long term and active recovery himself, his experiences have allowed him to connect personally with the men at Serenity Inns. As he's counseled hundreds of recovering addicts, he's found that pain and anger are the triggers which lead most people to relapse. He's also noticed that so much of their anger and pain are tied to early childhood episodes of abuse. Although what happened can't be changed, the staff at Serenity Inns works to help the men to use different coping mechanisms to work though the hurt. 
 
The work Serenity Inns does is emotional and frustrating at times, but it is also leading people back to a productive life and a hopeful future. 
 
If you are interested in getting involved, the men's evening meal is completely dependent on donations. People will make a meal, come to the home and have dinner with the staff and men in recovery. If you are interested in learning more, please connect with them at: http://serenityinns.org/
Avalanche of Paul Harris Award Winners
Posted by Gordy Miller on Jul 05, 2022
Avalanche of Paul Harris Award Winners

At its Changing of the Guard ceremony held on June 29, Elmbrook Rotary Club presented forty Paul Harris Fellowships. These Fellowships included four first-time Paul Harris fellows, five Fellowships presented as gifts from a Rotarian to a spouse, one Fellowship earned by a non-Rotarian and thirty additional Fellowships presented to Rotarians who were already Fellows.

The remarkable number of Fellowships awarded was due not only to the generosity of Club members but also to two limited-time Paul Harris matching programs which have since expired. Under the first matching program, the Club matched each donation of $500 to The Rotary Foundation with a transfer of 500 recognition points. Under the second program, the Club matched any gift made to The Rotary Foundation for polio prevention with an equal number of recognition points. The recognition points were provided by the Club itself and by members who have accumulated a large number of recognition points.

These matching programs generated a Paul Harris “buzz” among Club members and prompted many of them to make contributions they might not otherwise have made. The net result of the matching programs has been a substantial increase in contributions to The Rotary Foundation and more engagement by Club members.

To build upon past success and encourage more Paul Harris giving, the Club continues to offer two matching programs. For Rotarians who have not yet obtained a Paul Harris Fellowship, the Club will match a donation of $500 to The Rotary Foundation with a transfer of 500 recognition points. For those who are already Paul Harris fellows, the Club will contribute 200 recognition points for each donation of $800 to the Rotary Foundation.

Anyone who wants more information about the matching programs and anyone who would like to receive quarterly reminders about making regular Paul Harris contributions is encouraged to contract Foundation Treasurer Gordy Miller.

2022-2023 Changing of the Guard 
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on Jul 01, 2022
2022-2023 Changing of the Guard
On June 29, 2022, the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) held it's annual celebration, the Changing of the Guards. This ceremony offers thanks and gratitude to the resigning president, and promotes current members to move up the leadership ranks. 
 
This year we celebrated Thom Arndt as he wrapped his 4 years of service, the last presiding as president. Thom's goals were to bring more hands-on projects to our club. That led to a highway clean up commitment, several Habitat for Humanity builds, and an in person Spikes event this Spring. Thank you Thom for your leadership.
 
Moving up through our leadership ranks, Harry Farchmin will serve as our president in the 2022/2023 Rotary campaign. Chris Spresser will be our Vice President, and Tom Steinbach will act as our Secretary. Joining the leadership seats this year is Dave Engel at Sargent-at-Arms. 
 
 
A big thank you also to Mark Zalewski and Gordy Miller for overseeing the responsibilities of club treasurer and foundation treasurer respectively. 
 
Rotary is a collection of people who understand that change starts with us. By following the 4 Way Test, we all work to build our community in the way that best fits our skills and interests. Please consider joining us for a breakfast meeting in our 2022-2023 Rotary year. 
2022-2023 Rotary President Jennifer Jones Takes Office 
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on Jul 01, 2022
2022-2023 Rotary President Jennifer Jones Takes Office
On July 1, 2022, Rotary Clubs all over the world turned over leadership to the next round of leaders. The 2022 transition is especially notable as Rotary International President Jennifer Jones is the first woman to lead Rotary as President. 
 
In Jennifer's "Imagine" speech from January 2022, she channels John Lennon's famous declaration:
"You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one"
 
She says it's a challenge to all of us to imagine, and also act. Rotarians have imagined a world without polio, a world with clean water, and a world with peace.
 
This Rotary year, imagine what big outcomes we'll realize in the future, from the seemingly small actions, done consistently. 
 
Best of fortunes to President Jennifer Jones, and all the new presidents in our 2022-2023 Rotary year!
 
 
Ukrainian Relief updates
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on Jul 01, 2022
Ukrainian Relief updates

At Rotary, we are deeply concerned by the escalating loss of life and humanitarian hardship caused by the war in Ukraine. We’re using our deep networks and decades of experience to take swift action in the region.

How we are taking action: (click for video)

All donations to our Disaster Response Fund from 3 March to 30 April 2022 have been prioritized for use providing humanitarian aid to regions that are supporting Ukrainian refugees or other victims of the war.

Thanks to the generosity of donors around the world, we raised more than $15 million in contributions that are already helping provide people with essential items such as water, food, shelter, medicine, and clothing.

So far, 142 disaster response grants totaling $4.3 million have been awarded to support people affected by the war. The Rotary Foundation will continue to use the donations for humanitarian aid in and around Ukraine, and districts can apply for these grants until 31 December 2022.

Donations made to the Disaster Response Fund after 30 April will be available to all communities around the world that need assistance recovering from disasters.

An International Focus 
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on Jun 28, 2022
An International Focus
The Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) welcomed two speakers with focus abroad to our June 24th breakfast meeting. 
 
Jennifer Demar of the NGO Guatemala Service Project shared the challenges the Guatemalans have confronted. Recognized as the "Poorest Country in the Western Hemisphere," this developing country has daily challenges many Americans never contemplate. Examples are malnutrition, contaminated water, and lack of access to diapers and other hygiene resources. 
 
The Guatemala Service Project is helping to address these needs with awareness, the collection of donations, and helping anyone who wants to get more involved, do so. 
 
 
The second speaker was Rotarian Dick Debe, member of the Mukwonago Rotary Club and former District Governor of Rotary International District 6270. He shared how his club's involvement with Guatemala has led to even more involvement. The Mukwonago RotaryClub has sponsored projects and earned grants to deliver seeds and create farming programs. They've had chickens delivered to Guatemalan communities to create food, or revenue, or both. Rick has gotten the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) involved in clean water initiatives, getting water purification tools to remote communities so they can drink water with confidence. 
 
The ERC shares its focus among many local and several international organizations. ERC donates volunteer time, financial gifts, and insight to programs. The overarching intention is to be a catalyst for positive change. 
 
ERC is always welcoming new members and meets weekly on Fridays at 7:00 a.m. at the Western Racquet Club in Elm Grove. Let a member know if you're curious about joining. 
Pop up Habitat Project 
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on Jun 28, 2022
Pop up Habitat Project
On June 23, 2022 the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) helped staff a Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity project. Rotarians Mark Zalewski and spouse Evonne Zalelewski joined Jackson Bubolz to round out a group of seven volunteers. They lifted pre-built walls to the second story of a new Habitat home and raised three walls on the second level.
 
Habitat for Humanity is an avenue to give time or treasure for aiding housing issues in Milwaukee. Housing is often the "lead domino" which causes many additional challenges for families such as education, crime, and employment. Habitat works to provide families with affordable housing to help stabilize their expenses for shelter and to stabilize neighborhoods by increasing home ownership.
 
Please connect with Jackson Bubolz if you are interested in taking part of a Habitat build this year. There is high demand for volunteers; so this is a unique way to be active, be involved, and also learn some construction skills! 
Thanks for Making "Spikes" a Success 
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on Jun 08, 2022
Thanks for Making "Spikes" a Success
Prep and Tear down
 
No event can be a success without lots of working planning ahead of time and dedicated people on site early to prep and make sure the day gets started well.
 
 
We also needed volunteers willing to stay afterward to clean up, pack up, and keep going after everyone had their fun . . .
 
 
and last but not least... friends & neighbors to come celebrate a great Rotary year and a strong Spikes for Tykes event!
 
 
Thank you to all the Rotarians and their families for the effort that went into this year's event. It was great to be back among our members and our Elmbrook community!
 
Don't forget the online "Silent Auction," which begins on June 22, as part of the annual "Spikes for Tykes" fundraising effort.
 
Shoot to Thrill 
Posted by Harry Farchmin on Jun 20, 2022
Shoot to Thrill

The Elmbrook Rotary Straight Shooters (RI District 6270) enjoyed a joint outing with the Madison Shooting Sports Fellowship (RI District 6250) on Wednesday, June 15, 2022, at the Milford Hills Hunt Club in Johnson Creek, WI.

While It turned out to be the hottest day the year so far, a great time was had by all in meeting new Rotarians and breaking clays over the scenic fields.

After a fun late-afternoon shooting participants learned more about each other in fellowship while enjoying beverages and a meal.

Richard Barnhouse & WCTC
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on Jun 20, 2022
Richard Barnhouse & WCTC
On June 16, 2022, Dr. Richard Barnhouse came to the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) to share the foundation that Waukesha County Technical College WCTC has established as a powerful educational resource in our community and where he sees WCTC's future programming. 
 
Dr. Barnhouse spoke about the two-year applied science degrees offered by WCTC as well as their one-year technical degrees. He explained that nursing and protective services (fire, police, EMT) are still some of their most popular programs, but there are other programs such as cosmetology that are quietly growing . Dental hygienists are in very high demand, if one is looking for a carer, and there are are many open seats in those classrooms.
 
WCTC is used both by individuals in our community and by employers, who provide on-going training for their employees. Dr. Barnhouse insists that WCTC stands among the top two-year schools in the country, and he is excited to continue to build the programs which people in our county need. 
 
If you are interested in taking a class, the enrollment periods are now every four months since WCTC switched from the semester academic system. 
 
Rotary offers engaging speakers, fellowship, and opportunities to give back to our community. Please join us at a 7:00 a.m. Friday breakfast meeting at the Western Racquet Club in Elm Grove. 
Rotary Response Update for Ukraine
Posted on Jun 15, 2022
Rotary Response Update for Ukraine
With deep sadness, we feel the plight of Ukraine and its people.  When someone is suffering, we reach out to help. Rotary International, a service organization, is doing just that and is calling us to help those in need. The Rotary Foundation (TRF) moved quickly to provide grant funds for the relief effort in Ukraine and for those fleeing to other countries.
 
The Rotary Disaster Response Fund has received more than USD $15 million through June 8, 2022. Any contributions made after April 30 are being used by the Disaster Response Fund for disasters throughout the world and not just Ukraine.
 
The Elmbrook Rotary Foundation (ERF) Board of Directors agreed to match individual Rotarian contributions up to USD $15,000. In the past months our Elmbrook Rotary Foundation has sent more than $34,000 to The Rotary Foundation Disaster Response Fund to support relief efforts in Ukraine and the Ukraine refugees. This includes member contributions and the full $15,000 ERF match.
 
Thank you so much to everyone that has donated! This is a great response, and we can all feel proud of our Elmbrook Rotary Club!
 
Thus far, some USD $3.3 million have been released through district grants to assist with relief efforts in Ukraine and with Ukrainian refugees. Soon after the Russian invasion began, Czech and Slovak Rotarians assisted in opening a train corridor to get much needed supplies into Ukraine. You can read about that ongoing effort by clicking here or on the photo below.
 
 
Numerous other examples exist. Rotarians and Rotaractors throughout the world are responding and acting. Read the stories here! ERC members who attended the RI Convention in Houston, TX, report that, in the Parade of Flags, the blue-and-yellow flag of Ukraine received a standing, thunderous ovation from the thousands of attendees. Help keep the tragedy of Ukraine front and center for both Rotary and the public in general. 
A Look into the 2022 RI Convention 
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on Jun 15, 2022
A Look into the 2022 RI Convention
 
News from the Rotary International Convention 
 
Fellow Elmbrook Rotarians Tom Curl, Harry Farchmin, Tom Hochuli, and their spouses attended the RI Convention in Houston, TX, taking in all of the sights, sounds, experiences, and relationships at the largest gathering of Rotarians in the world. 
 
Charlie Duke, retired astronaut (see story screenshot above), talked about the need for our communities to work together as space missions were compelled to do.
Tom Hochuli has shared pictures of events on opening day, including one of a Texan telling a very interesting story about (or to) his armadillo (see photo below).
 
                                        
 
This convention is held each year and is open to any interested Rotarian. Mate, next year's convention will be held in Melbourne Australia. 
Spikes for Tykes 2022
Posted on Jun 07, 2022
Spikes for Tykes 2022
The Elmbrook Rotary Club's "Spikes for Tikes" annual fundraising drive experienced one of its culminating events on Saturday, June 4.
 
The June 4th in-person wrap-up was a volleyball event held at Mitchell Park in Brookfield. Approximately 20 teams from the community played an hour of volleyball and learned more about Rotary. Each playing team received six (6) long-sleeve commemorative T-shirts. A cash raffle added to the funds raised, and both food and drinks were available for purchase.
 
Enjoy the photos from the June 4th wrap-up, snapped by ERC member Erik Moeser, by clicking here.
 
"Spikes for Tikes" is the club's largest fundraising event and is the main way the club creates funds to donate into our community. If you wonder about where the money goes, check out this PDF which lists the 2020-2021 charitable donations of Elmbrook Rotary Club and its Foundation. It's impressive!
 
If your school, company, or place of worship missed the event this year, please reach out to one of the Elmbrook Rotarians. We'd love to get you involved in "Spikes '23" and also introduce you to the ways we're serving our community through Rotary. 
 
The fundraising effort continues through the club's "Changing of the Guard" event at the same location (Mitchell Field, Brookfield) on June 29. Connected with that event will also be a "Silent Auction," proceeds of which will be added to the "Spikes for Tykes" totals. The online portion of the "Silent Auction" will begin on June 22—lots of treasures, goodies, and experiences to win (for the right bid)!
Purposeful Higher Ed - LAUNCH of Elmbrook 
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on Jun 01, 2022
Purposeful Higher Ed - LAUNCH of Elmbrook
The Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) has consistently focused on enhancing the opportunities of the students in our community. The LAUNCH program of Elmbrook has been a wonderful way to focus time and resources back into the high schools in our immediate school districts.
 
On 31 May, the ERC sponsored a large conference room block for the LAUNCH program's "Watch It Live" so their students could showcase what their semester's efforts had created. 
 
The LAUNCH program represents over 400 sophomores, juniors, and seniors from the Elmbrook and Wauwatosa School Districts. Student are grouped into interest "strands" such as global business, future teachers, business analytics, media solution, IT, engineering, healthcare solutions, manufacturing, and several other options. Student groups are paired up with mentors from related industries to receive insight and training from beyond the school's walls. Each mentor brings a real life "problem statement" from their business to the project. The student's job is to solve the problem through their own resources and rely on the mentor for guidance during challenges or confusion. 
 
Read more...
Building Media Relations 
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on May 31, 2022
Building Media Relations
On 27 May, Trish Nitschke of the Center for Business Communication Excellence met with the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) to share ideas on how to make one's brand more visible. Take-aways that can be used for business or personal branding are:
  • Build relationships with local news people. Share 3-5 stories each year with them
  • Make stories compelling and easy to understand, with visuals packaged ahead of time if possible 
  • Many mediums are available to leverage: 
    • Local news
    • Podcasts
    • Social media 
As the ERC continues to attract new members from all areas of our community, it was a treat to have Trish share top ideas around branding. Because these strategies are readily available for growing businesses and personal brands, there is carryover to how ERC can leverage these strategies to grow awareness of our club and increase the impact we make. 
 
Please consider bringing a friend to our next 7:00 a.m.  breakfast meeting to hear great speakers like Trish! 
Highlights of Boards of Directors
Posted on May 25, 2022
Highlights of Boards of Directors
The Elmbrook Rotary Foundation (ERC) Board of Directors and the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) Board of Directors met via Zoom on Tuesday, May 24.
 
Among the highlights of the two board meetings were the following:
  • ERF Treasurer Gordy Mueller announced that, as of May 24, more than $39,000 has been raised by the annual Spikes for Tykes fund-raising effort.
  • Approved a Mini-Grant of $1,300 to support the Partners in Hope program of Community Warehouse.
  • Authorized the inclusion of $3,000 in the 2022-2023 budget to support ERC member attendance at the annual TriCon (three-district conference). The maximum would be $250 per attendee, and other parameters will be determined/announced in future months. The next TriCon is scheduled for April 28-29, 2023, in LaCrosse, Wisconsin.
Any ERC member is welcome to attend the meetings of the Board of Directors. Follow this website and the weekly ERC eBulletin for announcement of BoD meetings.
The Women's Center & ERC Go Way Back 
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on May 24, 2022
The Women's Center & ERC Go Way Back
Anyone who has spent time at Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) meetings knows well that the club has deep ties to The Women's Center (TWC). At our May 20th meeting, Jessie Trauth (the TWC Shelter and Housing Programs Director) shared the legacy that compliments our deep connection. 
 
Over the last 30 years, ERC has:
  • Donated over $250,000 to this single organization (making the ERC the largest service club donor in TWC's history)
  • Outfitted sleeping quarters in the shelter
  • Landscaped the campus
  • Painted the interior of property
  • Raised awareness of TWC's services
As Spikes of Tikes, ERC's largest fundraiser, approaches its conclusion, it is important to remind all Rotarians, friends of Rotary, and local businesses that none of the positive and impactful work the ERC does can happen without donations of both time and treasure. We're looking forward to great Spikes for Tikes' results in 2022 and opportunities to continue our work in the community, while hopefully adding an organization or two to support in the 2022/2023 Rotary year.
New Members & Stories within the Elmbrook Rotary Club
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on May 17, 2022
New Members & Stories within the Elmbrook Rotary Club
The Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) had a meeting full of introductions on May 13, 2022. 
 
After visiting a few meetings, Emily Jones & William (Bill) Selzer both decided to join our club. Over the next few months they will hopefully make friends with many Rotarians, as well as better understand the ways they can be involved in local to international efforts. They will have a chance to choose an Avenue of Service that best fits their interests and share their classification talks with us later this year. 
 
Part two of our meeting was hearing classification talks from slightly more seasoned members. 
 
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Friends for Health in Haiti Update 
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on May 25, 2022
Friends for Health in Haiti Update
On May 6 the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) welcomed Dr. Catherine Wolfe, Founder, Executive Director, and Clinical Director for Friends for Health in Haiti. Dr. Wolfe shared how gang violence is intensifying challenges of the pandemic and recent earthquakes. Inflation is leading to hunger being increasingly prevalent. 
 
It's not all bad news though. Through programs like Friends for Health in Haiti, communities are able to get organized and work toward solutions. Leveraging repeatable farming techniques, having consistent education for children, and building solutions for clean drinking water and sanitary latrines are all ways Rotary clubs like ours can help boost the wellbeing of others. 
 
Other recent breakthroughs include installing solar panels at the hospital to deliver days of reliable power. Friends for Health in Haiti is also realizing the superior ability of cinderblock structures to weather storms and earthquakes vs. using rocks or tin materials. They are looking to implement stronger materials whenever possible. 
 
There are also opportunities within the ERC to have donations go further. $2,000 has been matched by an anonymous donor to help Friends for Health in Haiti, making a total USD $4,000+ that was raised to support the agricultural seed project of Friends for Health in Haiti. 
New Hope School Guatemala Project
Posted by Erik Moeser on May 02, 2022
New Hope School Guatemala Project
         Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) has sent teams to Guatemala in February of every year since 2012 to work with Common Hope. Common Hope is a St. Paul-based NGO, offering housing, medical, social, and educational services.  In 2021 and 2022 the trips were cancelled due to the global pandemic. Because the clients whom Common Hope serves are largely unvaccinated, one way to continue helping has been remotely via Zoom and email.
 
         In 2021 Elmbrook Rotary (assisted by a grant from Rotary International District 6270) provided books, supplemental materials, desks, and supplies for students in the remote village of San Miguel Milpas Altas. The school was experiencing high failure rates. This year the aid was focused on the New Hope community near Guatemala CIty, founded 21 years ago by Common Hope after a disastrous mudslide. The school was built five years later. It was a from-the-ground-up effort to create a model to be emulated in other places over the ensuing years. Teachers were provided with six Dell PCs and peripheral equipment, replacing obsolete technology and enabling them to provide enhanced online learning experiences. This will continue until the Ministry of Education in Guatemala authorizes a return to in-person school attendance.
 
Elmbrook Rotary Club members will again travel to Guatemala in February of 2023 to catch up with onsite work related to the two remotely-provided projects, return to the usual home building, and participate in other program elements to aid families. Contact ERC member Erik Moeser for more information and for details on the February 2023 trip.
Blogging with Alaina Eckert
Posted on May 02, 2022
Blogging with Alaina Eckert
Alaina Eckert is the current RI District 6270 Global Grant Scholar.
 
These days she is in Panama, doing her internship at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. After completing the internship, she still has a semester of study at Lincoln University New Zealand and a master's thesis to write. Alaina is the first Global Grant Scholar of The Rotary Foundation with the Environment as the Area of Focus.
 
She has created a website, which includes a weekly "blog." Follow her adventures at the following URL:  https://eckeala.wixsite.com/missadventures
 
Getting Kids Fit - Physically & Scholastically
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on May 03, 2022
Getting Kids Fit - Physically & Scholastically
On April 29 the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) was visited virtually by Marcellus Dawson of Fit Club MKE. 
 
Marcellus shared how their programming teaches children the rules and details of sports like baseball and golf, and to be added soon, soccer and yoga.
 
The players receive a baseball glove when they begin the program together with opportunities to study school and sports on campus. On top of sports training, Fit Club MKE also provides children's books for members to take home, building their literacy along with their home library.
 
Marcellus shared that the best part of the program is seeing kids come in with apprehension and uncertainty and leave knowing they can play a game well and be part of this sports and education club. 
 
Fit Club MKE is currently in a growth and transition stage, adding programming while also seeking out donations to build a new facility. They are wanting to bring these types of education / athletics / community engagement directly to the players' neighborhoods. The link above provides an opportunity to donate to this organization if so moved. 
 
Ukrainian Rotary Update
Posted on Apr 27, 2022
Ukrainian Rotary Update
Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) experienced a special opportunity on Friday, April 22,  when it received an update via Zoom on Ukraine and how Rotary Disaster Response Fund donations are being utilized, both within District 2232 and specifically in Odessa.
 
Special guests included Nikolay Stebljanko (Past District Governor of D-2232) and Veniamin Lushpenko (Rotary Foundation Chair and Past President of the Odessa Rotary Club). Rotarian Lushpenko is personally known by ERC Rotarian Larry Myers, who attended meetings of the Odessa Rotary Club in 2017 & 2018. Nikolay Stebljanko is helping to coordinate Rotarian relief efforts throughout Ukraine. Click here to view a list of medical supplies that are needed. Click here to view a list of local Rotary clubs and districts throughout the world who are trying to assist those still inside Ukraine and her refugees.
 
Rotarian Stebljanko reported that, as of last week, more than USD $200,000 had been received by Rotary districts through the Rotary Disaster Response Fund to assist with humanitarian efforts on behalf of Ukraine, both inside and outside the country. Rotarian Lushpenko reported that members of Rotary Club Odessa have been buying humanitarian aid, medicines, and First Aid Kits for people who live in Odessa Region. About 10 years ago the Odessa Rotary Club, with cooperation with Rotary Club Aleksandria, bought a bus equipped with a ramp for disabled people. After the Russian invasion, Rotary Club Odessa has been using the bus to help disabled people to move around Odessa, to evacuate these people, and to transfer humanitarian aid and food around Odessa. To date the only sponsor from the USA is Rotary Club Rockwell (Iowa). Therefore, members of Rotary Club Odessa will be appreciate any involvement, participation, support, and help from other USA-based Rotary clubs! Funds are needed for these efforts and can be provided directly to the club by wire transfer without applying for a district grant via the Rotary Disaster Response Fund.
 
During the Zoom meeting, Theresa Reagan of the Milwaukee Rotary Club also spoke of that club's effort to collect, sort, and ship medical supplies to Ukraine. That effort can be reviewed by clicking here.
Rotary International Statement on Ukraine Conflict
Posted on Feb 28, 2022
Rotary International Statement on Ukraine Conflict

It is a tragic and sad time for the people of Ukraine and the world.

At Rotary, we are deeply concerned by the deteriorating situation in Ukraine and the escalating loss of life and humanitarian hardship there. Continued military action against Ukraine will not only devastate the region, but also risk spreading tragic consequences across Europe and the world.

As one of the world’s largest humanitarian organizations, we have made peace the cornerstone of our global mission. We join the international community in calling for an immediate cease fire, withdrawal of Russian forces, and a restoration of diplomatic efforts to resolve this conflict through dialogue.

In the past decade, Rotary clubs in Ukraine, Russia and nearby countries have transcended national differences and have actively engaged in peace-building projects to promote goodwill and to marshal assistance for the victims of war and violence. Today, our thoughts are with our fellow Rotary members and others in Ukraine coping with these tragic events. Rotary International will do everything in its power to bring aid, support, and peace to the region.

Rotary International
25-Feb-2022

Bikes for Stripes
Posted on Apr 27, 2022
Bikes for Stripes
Last year Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) embarked on sponsoring a new local endeavor by providing a Mini-Grant to the "Bikes for Stripes" program of the Milwaukee Homeless Veterans Initiative (MHVI).
 
On Friday, April 25, the club received a briefing about this program by MHVI Executive Director Debbie Buchanan in its Zoom-only meeting (necessitated by installation of a new HVAC system at the Western Racquet Club). She was joined by West Allis Rotarian Dan Kasun, who coordinates the "Bikes for Stripes" effort.
 
Ms. Buchanan also shared the mission and purpose objectives of MHVI, and Dan Kasun not only described the details of "Bikes for Stripes" but also provided information on how to get involved. For example, the Rotary Club of West Allis will hold  a volunteer opportunity on May 7 to support the Bikes for Stripes program.
 
Check out the follow URLs to glean more information and to volunteer:
 
 
 
 
 
Millennial Action Plan (MAP)
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on Apr 19, 2022
Millennial Action Plan (MAP)
Steven Olikara, Brookfield native & US Senate hopeful, spent time with the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC). He is a member of the Millennial Action Plan (MAP), and shared his love of music, politics, and his motivation to have our community and state work together for a better future. 
 
Steven shared how the political strategies of outrage culture, arms-race-style funding for campaigns, and demonization of opponents are poisoning our political climate. Steven sees Final 5 voting, listening to opposition with intent to understand, and resident-based government as today's biggest areas for opportunity. 
 
A musician himself, Olikara insists that to make good jazz, all musicians must play together, building off each other's strengths, and listening to what's happening around them. Time will tell if that strategy has a place in American government. 
ERC Helps Build
Posted on Apr 13, 2022
ERC Helps Build
Habitat for Humanity is another example of how Elmbrook Rotary Club members give back to the community.
 
On Thursday, April 7, seven ERC Rotarians and one guest Rotarian joined a Habitat for Humanity team to build a new home located at 3466 N. 2nd Street, Milwaukee, WI. 
 
This build entailed framing the home and moving prebuilt walls from ground level to the second story. The volunteers measured, raised, and secured walls on the second story. The home is now ready for trusses and a roof before work on the interior begins. 
 
                         
 
 
 
            
 
 
Thanks to ERC members Mark Thurner, Lucas Severson, Tom Curl, guest Rotarian Paul Turner, John & Pati Allen, Patti Allen Brickman, & Mike Groth for a job well done!
 
If you have interest in participating but haven't yet, please reach out to the ERC Community Service group so that they can determine interest in a third build in as many months. 
Local Options for Assisted Living 
Posted by Jackson Bubolz
Local Options for Assisted Living
On April 8 the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) was visited by Shannon Angell, CEO, of St. Camillus. St. Camillus is one of the largest independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities in our area. 
 
She shared information about the new residence building, newly completed, as well as insights on amenities, package options, and pricing. 
 
Shannon is one of the dozens of local guests the ERC hosts each year to keep our members up-to-date on community progress, aware of planned changes, and understanding what service opportunities are available to our members. 
 
Please join us for a 7:00 a.m. meeting any Friday! 
Elmbrook Rotary Fieldtrip 
Posted by Jackson Bubolz on Mar 29, 2022
Elmbrook Rotary Fieldtrip
Because the Western Racquet Club was under maintenance, the Elmbrook Rotary club visited the Sharon Lynn Wilson Center for the Arts on Friday March 25. 
 
We heard about the upcoming theater season, including plans for Starry Nights, and we received a tour of the facility.
 
We also received a surprise! The Sharon Lynn Wilson Center wanted to make a special gesture to our club, a driving force in fund raising before, during, and after the Center's 1994 opening. They revealed a large inscription, "Elmbrook Rotary Fireside Lounge," appearing between the northern etched windows in the lobby and honoring the club's efforts in making the Center a reality. 
 
 
 
Upcoming "Starry Nights" events on the Center's outdoor grounds are sure to be a staple of our club's social events this summer. 
 
 
Classification Talks 3.18.2022
Posted on Mar 20, 2022
Classification Talks 3.18.2022
A recurring theme in the Elmbrook Rotary Club is how much we love classification talks. Rotarians love these presentations because we're able to hear a 5-10 minute talk from a member about their life.
 
We hear antidotes, ah ha moments, and some really funny stories. Our trio of presenters at the 3/18/22 meeting were a great example of why. 
 
Rick Chabot shared with us the differences in cost of commonly purchased items from the year he was born to share some of the change he's seen. He's been very involved in Boy Scouts and Rotary, and his advice from 32 years in Rotary is to visit other clubs and engage in international programs. 
 
David Irwin is a new member with a history of travel. He spent some time growing up in Europe and travels often for work. Business and the affairs of the world are a few of his leisure activities. He has two high schoolers at Brookfield East.
 
Yusuf Quereshi is another new member, and wanted to get involved with a service group because of the example his parents and grandparents set. Yusuf likes spending time at local parks all the way up to the National parks. He also really likes numbers and enjoys his role as an actuarial accountant. 
 
 
Wisconsin DOT I 94 East West/Team
Wisconsin DOT I 94 East West/Team
On March 11th the Elmbrook Rotary Club was joined by Bill Mohr & Mike Pyritz of the Wisconsin DOT I-94 East/West Team to learn more about upcoming improvements to a major interstate in our community.
 
The current I-94 interstate stretch has been in service consistently over the last 60 years and is in need of rehabilitation.
 
While traffic is being re-routed, the team will take this opportunity to also add an additional 2 or 4 lanes (1 or 2 eastbound, 1 or 2 westbound) and will be removing the 175 left handed exit and replacing with an off ramp on the right hand side of the road. This project completes the major I-94 restoration project, as it follows the completion of the Zoo and Marquette interchange. 
 
Summer in Milwaukee has always meant great weather and road construction. There are always short- term sacrifices, but Bill and Mike promise that these changes will create infrastructure we're happy with for decades. 
 
 
2022 Book Drive
Posted by Jan Constable on Mar 08, 2022
2022 Book Drive

Elmbrook Rotary Club had a great response to its 2022 Book Drive and collected 276 reading books. The books were donated to Literacy Services of Wisconsin (LSW).

LSW is an adult literacy center located on the corner of Plankinton Avenue and Michigan Street in downtown Milwaukee. LSW will make the books available to their students for their reading pleasure. Any books not selected will be sold to a second-hand bookstore, with the funds raised going into LSW's operational account.

Mike Groth, Chairman of the Elmbrook Rotary Club's Community Service Committee, recently delivered  the books to LSW. The above photos shows (left to right):  Holly McCoy, LSW Executive Director; Dustin Slane, LSW Director of Marketing and IT; Mike Groth; and Chad Knezel, LSW Director  of Development & Volunteer Engagement.

Thank you, ERC Rotarians, for supporting the 2022 Book Drive

The #KiaBoys of MKE
Posted on Mar 08, 2022
The #KiaBoys of MKE
Have you heard about all the break-ins related to the entry level models from 2016-2021 Hyundais and Kias?
 
At the March 4th  Rotary meeting, Detective Kelly of the MPD shared some insight.
 
Here’s the reconnaissance:
  • Broken back windows don’t set off the car alarm
  • Steering column has a “soft underbelly”
  • A USB can then start and stop the vehicle like an ignition key
  • Accumulating these offenses have become status symbols in our community (i.e. #KiaBoys handle)
What can be done?
 
An ounce of preventing is better than a pound of cure.
  • If you own a KIA or Hyundia in those manufacturer years - consider selling it
  • Lock your cars! These folks take these stolen cars to the suburbs to upgrade their score. Locked cars (of any brand) are a HUGE detractor to theft
  • Close your garage; close your blinds at night. Don’t be the easy target.
Our communities are overall safe. These are a few tips to help avoid big surprises.
Wild Polio Case Detected in Malawi
Posted on Feb 28, 2022
Wild Polio Case Detected in Malawi
As an imported case from Pakistan, this detection of type 1 wild poliovirus in Malawi does not affect the WHO African region’s wild polio-free certification status.

The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) has confirmed a case of type 1 wild poliovirus (WPV1) in a child suffering from paralysis in Malawi. Analysis has shown the virus is genetically linked to WPV1 that had circulated in Pakistan’s Sindh province.

Detection of WPV1 outside the world’s two remaining endemic countries of Pakistan and Afghanistan is a serious concern and underscores the importance of prioritizing polio immunization activities in countries such as Malawi to prevent future instances of importation.

While the news from Malawi is disappointing, the polio program has seen importations from endemic countries to regions that have been certified wild polio-free in the past, and has moved quickly to successfully stop transmission of the virus in these areas. Now is the time for all parties — Rotary members, communities, government leaders, and global partners — to recommit to ending all forms of polio for good. Read Rotary's full statement.
ERC/ERF International Service Projects
Posted on Feb 16, 2022
ERC/ERF International Service Projects
The International Service Committee of Elmbrook Rotary Club has recommended the following distribution of funds for international projects:
 
$1,200—Andean Health Development—supporting the physician residency training program at Hesburgh Hospital in Santo Domingo, Ecuador.
$1,280—Common Hope—sponsoring a Common Hope high school student (to be assigned, including funds for gifts as allowed by Common Hope policy and periodic food bags for the student's family) in Guatemala.
$1,200—Friends for Health in Haiti—supporting a new Agriculture Program which will purchase seeds for crops to provide a sustainable food source.
$1,200—Giraffe Children’s Charity—helping some of the poorest children in Nairobi, Kenya, receive an education, thereby continuing ERC sponsorship of two primary school age children per year through eighth grade.
$1,200—Caserio El Tesoro Water Project—helping purchase materials to capture and provide fresh water for El Tesoro, Guatemala, a community of about 324 people located one hour north of the municipality of San Martín Jilotepeque, department of Chimaltenango, Guatemala. This is in connection with TRF Global Grant Application #2232182, in which the Marquette University Chapter, Engineers without Borders USA, is serving as a cooperating organization.
$1,100—Rotary Water Initiative—helping to deliver a minimum of 50 TivaWater filters to families in Chichicastenango, Guatemala. This is an international project of the Rotary Club of Mukwonago, Wisconsin.
"That's the way we've always done it!"  
Posted on Mar 02, 2022
"That's the way we've always done it!"
The Elmbrook Rotary Club has always challenged that mentality. 
 
Proof: The club has re-imagined our weekly drawing. 
 
                             
 
Doing away with a format that had stagnated, the new approach has several welcome changes:
  • Both In-Person & Zoom attendees can participate.
  • Instead of a "progressive pot," each weekly winner will receive a $20+ gift card and an opportunity to patronize a local business.
  • Current donors are Brunch of Brookfield and First Watch of Brookfield, but that's just be beginning...
  • Please let Paul Langer or Mike Hogan know if there is a local business you think would want to have their name in front of Elmbrook Rotarians each week for the drawing.
All proceeds go toward our club's donations to Rotary International. 
 
Pick up your raffle tickets at the registration desk from the Sergeant-at-Arms (Dr. Thomas Steinbach) or with our Zoom host! 
New Paul Harris Fellow Incentive
Posted on Feb 10, 2022
New Paul Harris Fellow Incentive
The Paul Harris Fellow recognition acknowledges individuals who make contributions, or who have contributions made in their name, totaling $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation.
 
Last year the Elmbrook Rotary Club's Board of Directors approved a special, limited-time-only program under which the Club would match any  $500 Paul Harris gift. That program, which ended December 31, 2021, was a great success. During the first six months of this current Rotary year, sixteen Rotarians took advantage of the program and earned a total of 21 Paul Harris Fellow recognitions. Their gifts to The Rotary Foundation totaled $9,600!

Even though that special program has ended, opportunities still remain to earn a Paul Harris Fellow recognition with ERC’s assistance.  Two matching programs are currently available.
 
(1) The Board wants to encourage members (especially new members) who are not currently a Paul Harris Fellow to contribute to The Rotary Foundation and receive recognition. For these members only, the Club will continue to match a $500 gift. This effectively gives a member the recognition of being a Paul Harris Fellow at “half price.”
 
(2) Members who already have one or more recognitions will be able to use the Club’s traditional matching program, namely, the Club will add the last $200 after the member has made gifts totaling $800.
 
Anyone who would like more information about Paul Harris Fellows may contact Gordy Miller, Elmbrook Rotary Foundation Treasurer.
Image
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 2022-2023 Theme
ERC Calendar
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2022 Business Person of the Year

 
 
The Elmbrook Rotary Club has opened nominations for the 2022 Business Person of the Year Award to honor a strong local leader who has entrepreneurial skills and strategic vision.  Applicants must be a majority owner and/or operating head of a successful for-profit business or non-profit organization.  Additionally, applicants 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
 
Nominations for this award will be accepted through Friday, October 14, via the Elmbrook Rotary Club website only. Click here or on the image above to complete and submit a nomination.
 
The Elmbrook Rotary Club will publicly announce and honor the award winner at our Friday morning, October 28th meeting, 7:00-8:00 a.m., at the Western Racquet Club in Elm Grove.
 
The 2021 winner was Phil Landry, owner of C3E Geomatics, LLC.
 
If your nominee is selected as Elmbrook Rotary’s 2021 Business Person of the Year, we will donate $200 to a charity specified by, and in, your name.
 
Questions?
Contact Ralph Gould, ERC member & Award Program Chair
(414) 975-3887
 
 
 
2022 Spikes for Tykes
 
 
Spikes for Tykes started in 1988 and  initially benefited Rotary International's End Polio campaign. Since then, the proceeds have been directed to the Child Abuse Prevention Fund, the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts, and numerous other charitable causes. Since its inception, SPIKES has raised over $950,000!
 
HOW DO WE MAKE OUR MONEY? Spike for Tykes funds come from sponsorships, plus concessions and a raffle on the event day. In addition to the team sponsorships, major sponsorships—ranging from Bronze Sponsor to Presenting Sponsor—are encouraged.
 
The 2022 "Spikes for Tykes" effort culminated with a low-key volleyball event on Saturday, June 4, at Mitchell Park in Brookfield. Nearly 20 teams played for the first time since the global pandemic shut down the event in 2020 and 2021.
 
The fundraising effort continues through the "Changing of the Guard" event on June 29. a "Silent Auction" is part of that event.
 
Click on the document titles below to access major information for this year’s fundraiser:
 
Sponsorship Opportunity Form
Sponsorship Appeal Letter
 
 
Photo Albums
Rotary Links
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?
Service Above Self
- Learn more about our guiding principles
 
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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Speakers
Carolyn Korona/Anne Harberg
Aug 19, 2022
Elm Grove School For Lifelong Learning
Elmbrook Rotary New members
Aug 26, 2022 7:00 AM
Rotary Member Classification Talks
Eddee Daniel, Project Director-Preserve Our Parks
Sep 02, 2022
A Wealth of Nature: Parks and Natural Areas in Southeast Wisconsin
Tim Harrington/Anne Marie Pilot Alzheimers Asso.
Sep 09, 2022 7:00 AM
2022 Walk to End Alzheimer's - Waukesha County
View entire list...
Upcoming Events
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!
 
Our meetings are held at the Western Racquet Club in Elm Grove.

ImageWHEN: Elmbrook Rotary Club is a breakfast club that meets every Friday from 7:00-8:00 AM
 
WHERE:  Western Racquet Club in Elm Grove, WI. 1800 Highland Drive
 
COST: $17 Breakfast
 
Venue Map          District Site           How to Join
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RSS
Rotary statement on recent polio detections in U.S., Europe

Rotary statement on recent polio detections in U.S., Europe

Stephanie A. Urchick selected to be 2024-25 Rotary International President

Stephanie A. Urchick is selected to be the 2024-25 president of Rotary International

Recognizing a woman’s worth

Programs of Scale grant-winner Together for Healthy Families in Nigeria helps families by focusing on the fundamental needs of women

RI President Jennifer Jones crosses Canada from coast to coast to coast

Organized around several hubs, the tour started on 17 June to draw attention to the positive impact that clubs have in their communities.

Club Officers
President
Harry Farchmin
President Elect
Christine Spresser
Secretary
Thomas Steinbach
Treasurer
Mark Zalewski
Executive Secretary / Director
Christine Spresser
Community Service Chair
Mike Groth
International Service Chair
Erik Moeser
Sergeant-at-Arms
Dave Engle
Vocational Service Chair
Jack Nelson
Immediate Past President
Thom Arndt
Director (Past President)
Jan Constable
Director
Jackson Bubolz
Director
Gordy Miller
Director
Jeanne Allen
Director
Bonnie Bertram
Director
Raul Arredondo
Director
Jack Nelson
Membership
John Allen
Programs
Mark Thurner
Public Image Chair
Jackson Bubolz
The Rotary Foundation
Tom Curl
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, Chuck Steinbach, & Renato Westby.

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