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
Launch and Beast
Posted by William Selzer
 
Recently the Club received two excellent presentations from the Brookfield East Launch and Beast Rototics programs, at our Friday morning Sunrise meetings. Launch was presented by Bob Hall, Executive Director, and Beast Mentor Richard Oakes, along with senior Ayush from the team.
The Launch Program at Brookfield East High School is designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world professional experiences. Through innovative partnerships, hands-on projects, and career-focused learning, students gain the skills and insights needed to thrive beyond high school. This program provides students with:
  • Career Exploration
  • Project-based Learning
  • Mentorship
  • Internships
  • College and Career Readiness
This program provides an enhanced understanding of potential career paths and industry, and the development of professional skills relevant to the modern workforce.
Bob and his team of mentors have given Launch students inspiration, and a head start in a path to a future of exciting possibilities.
Read more...
Drive Out Polio
Posted by William Selzer
 
by Mark Zalewski
 
20 Enthusiastic Elmbrook Rotarian made the trek to the Machine Shed restaurant on Saturday for the first event of the Elmbrook Rotary 2025 "Drive Out Polio" Triathlon. 
 
There to pile on the pancakes and shovel in the eggs where Larry and Claudia Rovens, Harry and Anne Farchmin, Karl Schulz, Tom and Linda Curl, Doug and Janie Jacobson, Greg Bonk, Jim Dunn, John Allen, Shawn Wurtzbacher, Dr Tom Steinbach, Prez Dave, Paul Langer, Lydia Miller and Mark and Evonne Zalewski.
 
Winner of the first Event - The Carbo-Loading - was none other than Larry Rovens - attacking a slice of coffee cake the size of the Chicago phone book before going after Claudia's blueberry pancakes.   On the way out the door, the local boy scouts took advantage of Karl and Paul's sweet tooth - selling candy bars to help their troop.
 
The effort required lifting those forks at breakfast took it's toll and only nine intrepid Rotarians - the Zalewskis, Curls, Jacobsons, Paul, Karl and Jim moved on to Event 2 - the 45 mile Kettle Moraine Drive.   Jim Dunn won this event hands down before it even started, with the Coolest Car Award - for his Red Hot Corvette.
 
Read more...
Barry James Memorial Golf Outing
Posted by William Selzer
 
by Noaman Sharief
 
The Elmbrook Rotary annual golf outing began as an informal outing during the pandemic - first one at Blackstone Creek Golf Club on Sep 29, 2020.
 
Barry was an avid, devoted Rotarian whose own maternal grandfather, Canadian John Nelson, served as Rotary International President during 1933-34. Barry himself served terms on Rotary International District 6270's District Grant Committee and Global Grant Committee. In the local club he served as ERC President during 1990-91.
 
Sadly, Barry James passed away in spring/summer of 2021. At which point, I proposed to call this annual event “Barry James Memorial Golf Outing” with proceeds funding the educational endowment fund - which Barry was passionate about. 
We held this at a number of different courses, as well at The Luxe, and at the Ironwood Golf Course in 2024.
 
The format remains the same - no rules, no "fundraising", come as you are and have fun!
 
As the official "Tribute" notes, "It never mattered what his score was as long as he got the round in within 2 ½ hours."
 
“Special thanks to our fellow ER Rotarians, pictured, who continue to support this event year after year.”
The Rotary Commitment to Eradicating Polio
Posted by William Selzer
 
A Global Public Health Initiative
 
Polio, or poliomyelitis, is a crippling and potentially deadly infectious disease caused by poliovirus. For much of the 20th century, polio was a feared disease that affected millions of people—primarily children—around the world. The fight to eradicate polio has been one of the most ambitious public health campaigns in history, and Rotary International has played a central role in this global effort.
 
Rotary International, a worldwide service organization, launched its PolioPlus program in 1985. This initiative was the first and largest internationally coordinated private-sector support of a public health initiative, with the goal of eradicating polio worldwide. Rotary’s work includes fundraising, advocacy, volunteer mobilization, and direct involvement in vaccination campaigns.

 

Read more...
Rotary Peacebuilding
Posted by William Selzer
 
Promoting Global Peace Through Community Action and Education
 
Rotary International is a global humanitarian organization committed to promoting peace and resolving conflict around the world. Peacebuilding is at the heart of Rotary’s mission, with a focus on creating lasting change through education, dialogue, and grassroots action.
 
Peacebuilding refers to efforts that address the root causes of conflict and promote sustainable harmony within and between communities. This involves fostering understanding, resolving disputes, and building societies that are resilient to violence and injustice.
 
Rotary approaches to peacebuilding through a variety of initiatives:
  • Education: Rotary supports peace education programs to equip individuals with the skills necessary for conflict resolution and cross-cultural understanding.
  • Dialogue: Rotary clubs organize community dialogues that bring together people from diverse backgrounds to discuss challenges and solutions for peace.
  • Service Projects: Rotary sponsors local and global service projects that address issues such as poverty, inequality, and access to education—factors that often contribute to conflict.
  • Peace Fellowships: Through the Rotary Peace Fellowship, individuals receive advanced training in peace and development studies at leading universities around the world.
Anyone can participate in Rotary’s peacebuilding efforts—whether by joining a local Rotary club, volunteering for service projects, or applying for a Rotary Peace Fellowship. By working together, Rotary members and partners strive to build a more peaceful and just world.
 
Packer Raffle Winners
Posted by William Selzer
 
Elmbrook Rotary Club Packer Raffle Winners 2025
 
Congratulations Winners:
 
September 7, Lions – Karen Tredwell
September 11, Commanders – Nancy Teas
October 3, Bengals – Colin Foster
November 2, Panthers – Maya SiiKarla
November 10, Eagles – Amy Haberkorn
November 23, Vikings – Bill Petterson
December 7, Bears – Jerome Buting
TBD Ravens – Linda Edelstein
Rotary Global Grant Scholarships
Posted by William Selzer
Empowering International Study and Service
 
Bridgette Scholz, formerly Potter, shared with the Club how her scholar experience has impacted on her journey and life. Her dissertation assessed the Potential Impact of H-2A visa expansion for Seasonal Agricultural Worker Visas, in reference to Wisconsin and the nation.
 
She also shared how the program fosters life long connections with other scholars creating a diverse community with shared values resulting in respected leaders who embody the Rotary values of Peace, Education, and Health.
 
Rotary Global Grant Scholarships are prestigious awards offered by Rotary International to support graduate-level academic studies or research abroad. These scholarships are designed to promote Rotary’s mission of advancing world understanding, goodwill, and peace by funding international study aligned with one of Rotary’s areas of focus.
 
The scholarships aim to prepare future leaders to address the world’s most pressing humanitarian needs. Successful applicants must propose a program of study or research that falls within one or more of Rotary’s seven areas of focus:
  • Peacebuilding and conflict prevention
  • Disease prevention and treatment
  • Water, sanitation, and hygiene
  • Maternal and child health
  • Basic education and literacy
  • Community economic development
  • Supporting the environment
For more information on Rotary Global Grant Scholarships, including details on eligibility, application deadlines, and the application process, visit the official Rotary International website at [URL] or contact your local Rotary club.
 
Thank you, Bridgette for sharing your journey. For more information on the Global Grant Scholarship Program, visit, www.rotary.org
 
The Big Kahuna Award
Posted by William Selzer
 
At a recent Sunrise Meeting, President Dave Engle presented Harry Farchmin with the Big Kahuna Award for his leadership and dedication to this years Family Fest.
 
The Family Fest Planning Team was also recognized by Family Fest Cochair Sandy Wysocki for their countless hours spent planning and working at the event. Sandy also thanked all the members who helped serving food and drink, cooking, face painting, providing music, and people power… making it a fun-filled day for families and community members.
 
This event and other projects throughout the year would not be possible if it weren’t for our generous sponsors: HJS Packaging and Distribution, George Moore IV Recovery Foundation, MLG Capital, HANDLE IT, St Camillus, Wealth Management – Dunn Investment Management Group, and BAIRD The Tony Consiglio Osmanski Hienz Group.
 
Thank you, Harry, Sandy, Team, club volunteers, and sponsors.
Back-to-School Bash at Wellpoint Care Network
 
On August 7th, Wellpoint held their 4th Annual Back-to-School Bash highlighting providing students with 1,800 free backpacks filled with school supplies. Other activities included a DJ, haircuts, along with community support groups, Fire and EMS units, plus an appearance by the Milwaukee Mayor.
 
The Elmbrook Rotary 14 volunteers provided support by helping in the free food service line, offering hot dogs, brats, chips, and water. 2,000 meals were served.
 
Thank you, Jack Nelson for coordinating our group… including Bill P, Cathy S, Evonne Z, Mark Z, Mark T, Kerri R, Cole R, Kate B, Scott D, John A, Kim N, William S, and Sue C.
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 2025-2026 Theme
 
 
Thank You 2025/2026 Club Sponsors :
ERC Calendar

December 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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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

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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

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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

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 SUPPORT  THE 
 ELMBROOK   ROTARY   FOUNDATION 
Speakers
Dave Engle-ERC President/Francis Vogel
Dec 12, 2025
ERC - Annual Club Meeting/New Member Classification Talk
Jim Finn & Suppoorting Cast
Dec 19, 2025
Christmas Celebration
NO MEETING
Dec 26, 2025
Christmas
NO MEETING
Jan 02, 2026
Happy New Year
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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!
 

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
 
Venue Map          District Site           How to Join
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Club Officers
President
David Engle
President Elect
Bill Petterson
Club Vice President
Bill Petterson
Secretary
Greg Bonk
Sergeant-at-Arms
Ian Smith
Immediate Past President
Thomas Steinbach
Club Treasurer
Mark Zalewski
Club Foundation Treasurer
John Allen
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 Class of 2028
Sandy Wysocki
Director Class of 2028
Larry Rovens
Director (Past President-Class of 2025)
Mike Hogan
Community Service
John Scott
Membership
Mark Thurner
International Service
Kemal Yilmaz
Programs
Ralph Gould
Public Image Chair
Bill Selzer
Satellite Chair
Liam Sawyer
Satellite Chair Elect
Daniel Costello
Satellite Secretary
Harry Farchmin
Major Fundraising
Harry Farchmin
Vocational Service
Dave Urban
Peacebuilder
Dave Urban
Social Committee
Chris Salani
Sunshine Committee
Bonnie Bertram
Youth Exchange Officer
Bill Petterson
Club Foundation Chair
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, & Renato Westby.
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