Elmbrook Rotary Club News
Chosen: Fostering Forever Families
Chosen, a Christian-based foster-care and adoption support non-profit organization, exists to Foster Forever Families so that all children can experience a safe and loving home.
 
Amalie Bowling, Co-Founder (with husband Jason) and Executive Director, explained the mission and activities of Chosen to Elmbrook Rotary Club on Friday, February 14.
 
 
"Equip, Encourage, Engage" aspires to help with items or experiences that can directly benefit foster children with special needs. "Community Outreach" wishes to educate and inform the wider community about foster care, adoption topics, and the unique needs of foster and adoptive families. "The Family Closet" utilizes community donations to help foster and adoptive families to shop for clothing, baby items, school supplies, toys, and other new items needed for children in out-of-home care. "Boxes of Blessing" is a program that give churches and other organizations a chance to sponsor a donation box to collect "new" items for "The Family Closet."
 
More information on Chosen can be accessed on their web site (www.choseninlove.org) or their Facebook page (@ourchosenfamily).
Channel 58 Weather Briefing
Drew Burgoyne of Channel 58 Ready Weather provided a most informative and interesting briefing to Elmbrook Rotary on Friday, February 7.
 
 
Primary topic was severe weather in the United States and especially in Wisconsin. He engaged the ERC membership actively in understanding the risks and preparatory actions in dealing with severe weather situations. Wisconsin averages more than 20 tornadoes each year, but in 2005 there were more than 60 tornadoes in our state. He highly recommended that each family own, and use, a weather radio in their home.
 
This presentation is one of many highly interesting topics that are covered weekly at Elmbrook Rotary Club. We meet at 07:00 a.m. at the Western Racket Club in Elm Grove, WI, and would be pleased to have you join us, not only to enjoy the breakfast and speaker but also to learn about the work of Rotary throughout the world.
Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution
Millions of people all over the world are currently displaced by armed conflict or persecution. In fact, 90% of casualties in armed conflicts are civilians, half of which are children. Through service projects and Rotary programs, the Rotary family is committed to pursuing projects that address the structural causes of conflict, including poverty, inequality, ethnic tension, lack of access to education, and unequal distribution of resources.
 
 
Rotarians train adults and young leaders to prevent and mediate conflict, and aid refugees who have fled dangerous areas. During February, Rotary Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution Month, we’re celebrating our commitment to build peace and mitigate conflict.
Western Great Lakes District Conference

The Western Great Lakes District Conference is coming up on May 1-2 in Oshkosh, WI. Organizers of the conference, with strong representation from both District 6220 and District 6270, have put together two fabulous days of programming and entertainment.

Direct registration is accessible via this link.

 

Read more...
PAIN:  That Four-Letter Word
Elmbrook Rotary Club welcomed back a twice-former member and long-time Rotarian, Dr. Sridhar Vasudevan, on Friday, January 31.
 
 
Dr. Vasudevan addressed the membership on the topic of "pain." He has done much research and writing on the topic of pain management, having remained a practitioner in the field to this very day. One of his publications is entitled Multidisciplinary Management of Chronic Pain. The monograph can be purchased and downloaded as an eBook by clicking here. Dr. Vasudevan briefed the club membership on two of the prominent theories of pain and how to manage it.
 
This presentation is a great example of what ERC members profit from each week at the Western Racket Club in Elm Grove, WI. Join us any Friday for breakfast at 07:00 a.m. and enjoy both the fellowship and the presentations.
TRF Donor Opportunities
WHAT IS THE ROTARY FOUNDATION?
 
 
WHAT THE ARCHITECT OF THE ROTARY FOUNDATION HAD TO SAY
 
“The Rotary Foundation is not to build monuments of brick and stone.  If we work upon marble, it will perish; if we work on brass, time will efface it; if we rear temples they will crumble into dust; but if we work upon immortal minds, if we imbue them with the full meaning of the spirit of Rotary . . . we are engraving on those tablets something that will brighten all eternity.”  Arch C. Klumph, President of Rotary International, 1916-1917
 
Thank you for supporting The Rotary Foundation and its work.
Art Is Life
Stacie Estrada, a Wisconsin artist currently living in Menomonee Falls,WI, provided a presentation to Elmbrook Rotary on Friday, January 17, concerning the values of art in the world.
 
 
Self-taught with high school and WCTC classes behind her, she insists that it's the experience and working with other artists that has helped her grow. Her works include more than 30 murals and 50+ paintings. She has sold and customized over 40 commissioned pieces locally in parade of homes, businesses, and homes. It's seeing the customers' reactions she loves the best.
 
Her latest custom art business is a joint effort with her daughter and husband. Called "Believe Custom Art and Design," they offer live wedding paintings as well as custom pieces for individuals. You can view their work and business offerings at:  www.believecustomart.com
 
She has also owned Uptown Art studio in Sussex since 2013. She prides herself on helping others explore the art world and helping kids and adults value and admire art through the studio.
 
ERC members enjoy presentations like this every week on Fridays (7:00 a.m.) at the Western Racket Club in Elm Grove. Drop by for breakfast, enjoy the speaker, and consider joining the world of Rotary.
How To Use Your Gut Intelligence
Guest speaker at ERC on Friday, January 3, was Susan K. Wehrley, founder and owner of BIZremedies. Her focus is to ALIGN individuals and companies to their best selves as they reach their vision, values, and goals. She accomplishes this through the ALIGN program, which is an accumulation of the best practices from Susan’s Leadership, Teamwork, and Customer Service programs. In addition to the more traditional development practices, the ALIGN program also increases mindfulness and effective decision-making by increasing Gut Intelligence.
 
 
During her presentation, Susan taught ERC members the S.T.O.P Technique in order to Slow down, Tune in within, Observe what is happening around oneself and within oneself, and to Perceive the best possibility. The hoped-for result is the making of decisions from a clear, calm, and confident self in the new year!
ERC Cheers on the Badgers
Approximately 25 ERC Rotarians and family members gathered at the new Outback Steakhouse facility in Brookfield on New Year's Day to cheer on the UW-Madison Badgers football team in the Rose Bowl. It was also a chance to celebrate the New Year's Day birthday of Evonne Zalewski, spouse of ERC Treasurer, Mark Zalewski.
 
 
 
Unfortunately, the Badgers fell one point short of Oregon in this 108th Rose Bowl. This was the 10th appearance of the Badgers in a Rose Bowl. They have won three times (having lost to Oregon twice). The loss did not dampen the enthusiasm of the ERC cheerleaders. 
ERC Role in 2020 Rose Bowl Parade
ERC Rotarian Tom Curl and spouse Lynda had the unique opportunity to assist in preparing flowers for the floats in the 2020 Rose Bowl Parade. Tom shares the following:
 
"We are part of a tour group. Worked one day preparing roses to be put on floats. We did thousands of pink roses and younger, more nimble volunteers scrambled over the scaffolding and planks to put the roses on the surfaces. Today, we had close-up bleacher seats for the parade. The floral displays were amazing!"
 
 
The Rotary International float won the "Tournament Volunteer Trophy." Congrats to all Rotarians worldwide!
ERC Annual Holiday Program
On Friday, December 20, members of Elmbrook Rotary Club (under the direction of Gary Gilmore) participated in its Annual Holiday Program.
 
 
Skits, musical performances, games, & sing-a-long's highlighted the festive and joyous occasion. Thanks, and blessings, to all!
TRF Major Gifts Briefing at ERC
Rachel Greenhow, Major Gifts Coordinator for The Rotary Foundation (TRF), briefed the ERC on Friday, December 13, regarding the various ways to support the worldwide work of Rotary through providing major gifts to TRF.
 
 
Ms. Greenhow centered her presentation on explaining the following categories of gifts:  Rotary Foundation Sustaining Member, Paul Harris Fellow, Paul Harris Society, Bequest Society, and Major Donor. Details of these various recognitions, including the Arch Klumph Society and the Legacy Society, can be examined in detail at:  https://www.rotary.org/en/donate/recognition
 
Tom Curl, ERC representative for TRF, also briefly explained "The Million Dollar Journey," a recently launched combined effort of RI Districts 6270 & 6220. Details of this effort can be read by clicking here.
Paul Harris Fellows Recognized
On Saint Lucy's Day (December 13), two ERC Rotarians were presented with Paul Harris Fellow recognition.
 
Tom Curl was recognized with his 9th Paul Harris Fellow award, and Kate Bloomberg presented Paul Harris Fellow recognition to Scott Dryburgh.
 
The Paul Harris Fellow recognition is achieved when you give $1,000 or more to the Annual Fund, PolioPlus, or an approved Foundation grant. To recognize someone else as a Paul Harris Fellow, you can give that amount in their name. Learn more about Paul Harris Fellow recognition.
Brookfield German Holiday Market
Elmbrook Rotary Club was a major sponsor for the Brookfield German Holiday Market on Saturday, December 7, 2019, by providing the hayride and by assisting with other events in addition.
 
     
 
Members of the ERC-sponsored Brookfield Central and Brookfield East Interact Clubs also assisted with a raffle that garnered approximately $600 for the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation.
 
Thanks to all ERC and Interact members who helped make the afternoon a most enjoyable experience for all who came!
ERC Receives Rotary Citation
Posted on Nov 28, 2019
Elmbrook Rotary Club has been awarded a 2018-2019 Rotary Citation with Presidential Distinction. Award of the basic citation required meeting at least nine (9) goals established by Rotary International. However, ERC went above and beyond by accomplishing 2/3 goals established by the 2018-2019 RI President. This resulted in a "Gold Distinction" in addition to the basic citation. Congratulations to all!
 
RI District 6270 Assistant Governor Larry Myers
presents a "2018-2019 Rotary Citation with Gold Distinction"
to ERC Immediate Past President Kevin Roche
and current President Michael Schmeling
Districts 6270 & 6220 Million Dollar Journey
Posted on Nov 20, 2019
The Rotary Foundation (TRF) has received the highest rating - four stars - from Charity Navigator, an independent evaluator of charities in the U.S. More Rotarians, and others, see the wonderful results of our projects and scholarships worldwide, and they are using TRF as their “Charity of Choice” in their annual giving and their estate plans. 
 
So, in cooperation with District 6220 to our North, District 6270 has decided to have a little fun and, together, we have set out on a Million Dollar Journey.  The goal for our two districts together is to find and recognize NEW Major gifts to the Foundation.
Read more...
ERC Rotarians in Antigua, Guatemala
Posted on Nov 09, 2019
ERC Rotarians Mark Zalewski (& spouse Evonne) and Larry Winkelhake (& spouse Jean Guzetta) proudly represented the club at the November graduation ceremonies of Common Hope's New Hope School in Antigua, Guatemala. They report that there were 155 graduates. Some 80 financial sponsors were also present, including the Winkelhake's & Zalewski's.
 
The Zalewski's were privileged to celebrate with their sponsored graduate, Monica Esquival Rivera, whom they supported for six years. Pictured with Monica, in addition to Mark & Evonne Zalewski, are her proud mother and sister. Larry Winkelhake and his spouse Jean were also able to celebrate with their sponsored graduate, Carlos de Leon.
 
 
In addition to celebrating graduation with the students whom they have financially sponsored, the ERC Rotarians also report that they had a great visit with Sergio Cuc, the student being financially sponsored by ERC itself.  Sergio has successfully passed his exams and is on to his senior year in school.  His major is automotive technology, and he therefore greatly appreciated the gift of a Harley-Davidson T-shirt from the club.  The Zalewski's and Winkelhake's were joined by Sergio's mother, father, and abuela (grandmother).  Sergio is one of her 45 grandchildren.
 
 
Online ERC & ERF Payments/Donations
Posted on Sep 11, 2019
It is now possible for members of Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) to make online payments and donations both to ERC and to the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation (ERF).
 
Two separate commercial merchant accounts have been activated which intend to keep transactions separated between ERC and ERF.
 
To make payments to ERC, simply follow the link provided in one's individual club account (and quarterly statements). A surcharge of 5% is billed to one's club account when utilizing a credit card or debit card.
 
To make donations or payments to ERF, simply click the "Donate" or "Donate Now" button that can be found on multiple pages on the ERC web site. Or, one can click the URL link that will be provided in ERF invoices to club members. Please ensure that donations or payments intended for the ERF account are not made to the ERC account. The opposite is also true. And, please remember that not all payments to the Foundation [a 501(c)(3) entity] are tax-deductible. IRS rules and policies must be followed.
 
 
Finally, one can always use the old-fashioned (and least expensive) way of payment/donation with an individual check or bank check via "Bill Pay" at one's bank.
LAUNCH at Elmbrook School District
Posted on Aug 25, 2019
On Friday, August 30, Dr. Robert Hall provided an overview of the LAUNCH program in the Elmbrook School District. He is the Executive Director of this program opportunity that began in September 2017 for Elmbrook junior and senior high school students. The Wauwatosa School District high schools will also join the program in the current academic year. LAUNCH seeks to connect rigorous learning with real-world, hands-on projects provided by area business and industry. LAUNCH is built on the principles of profession-based learning, professional skills development, self-discovery and exploration, entrepreneurial mindsets, and responsiveness to the needs of students and businesses. The program now includes 400+ students and multiple strands. LAUNCH needs assistance from the business community for:  (1) sharing professional stories & experience; (2) providing project feedback for 75+ projects; and (3) offering mentorship to students. An appeal to ERC members will be forthcoming.
 
RI 2020 International Convention
Posted on Aug 15, 2019
Dates are June 6-10, 2020. It is NOT too early to register! In fact, Rotary International advises registering as soon as possible to ensure a place. They anticipate having to close registration prior to the December 15th deadline for early registration. Register at riconvention.org.
 
Read more...
ClubRunner Mobile App
Posted on Aug 06, 2019

The ClubRunner Mobile App is your key to connect to your club on the go!

Completely free to download and use, this app will let you access the key info you need while you're on the go. Password protected just like the ERC website, the ClubRunner Mobile app allows you to to view the ERC member directory, contact your members and executives, read the latest articles posted to the ERC website, learn more about ERC upcoming events and speakers, view ERC meeting details, and track your attendance statistics—right from your smartphone or tablet! Download the ClubRunner Mobile App either from the App Store (for Apple products) or from Google Play (for Android devices).
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!
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 Road
 
COST: $16 Breakfast
 
Venue Map          District Site           How to Join
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.
2019 Business Person of the Year Award

The Elmbrook Rotary Club announced on October 25 that its 2019 Business Person of the Year award recipient is Jamie O’Donoghue, owner of O’Donoghue’s Irish Pub in Elm Grove. The Rotary Award honors a strong local leader who has entrepreneurial skills and strategic vision.

Jamie O'Donoghue (center) is presented with the Elmbrook Rotary Club's 2019 Business Person of the Year Award from Selection Committee member Tom Michalski, Elm Grove Village Board Trustee, (L), and Ralph Gould, Award Program Chair and Elmbrook Rotarian (R)

“Jamie joins an impressive group of past Business Person of the Year award recipients:  Mark Mirsberger, CEO of Dana Investment Advisors, in 2018; and Lisabeth Passalis-Bain, Publisher of the Elm Grove News-Independent, in 2017,” said Award Program Chair Ralph Gould. “This annual award helps the Elmbrook Rotary Club recognize a successful business owner/operator in Brookfield or Elm Grove who demonstrates community responsibility.”

O’Donoghue has shown service-mindedness and significant community involvement through local sponsorships by O’Donoghue’s Irish Pub of the annual Elm Grove Memorial Day celebration with proceeds benefiting the American Legion’s Post 449, the Elm Grove Village Farmer’s Market, Elm Grove Oktoberfest, Children’s Hospital Toys for Christmas program, Irish Fest, Elm Grove Citizens’ Police Academy, Humane Animal Welfare Society (HAWS), and several area golf outings.

A committee of Elmbrook Rotarians and local government officials selected the award recipient.

Speakers
Joseph Liebau Jr., WI DNR
Feb 21, 2020 7:00 AM
DNR Overview
Morningstar Analysts
Feb 28, 2020 7:00 AM
How Bricks Compete with Clicks in a New Retail Era
Fuka - ERC's Exchange Student from Japan
Mar 06, 2020 7:00 AM
My Experiences
Dr. Mark Hansen
Mar 13, 2020
ElmBrook School district
View entire list...
ERC Calendar
February 2020
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Rotary 2019-2020 Theme
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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Club Officers
President
Michael Schmeling
President Elect
Tom Hochuli
Secretary
Thom Arndt
Treasurer
Mark Zalewski
Executive Secretary / Director
Tom Hochuli
Sergeant-at-Arms
Harry Farchmin
Immediate Past President
Kevin Roche
Director
Kate Bloomberg
Director
Gordy Miller
Director
Daniel Zomchek
Director
Marie Owens
Director
Christine Spresser
Director
Noaman Sharief
Director (Past President)
Gary Gilmore
Membership
John Allen
The Rotary Foundation
Tom Curl