Elmbrook Rotary Club News
LAST CALL: Global Grant Scholarship Opportunity
Posted on Jan 13, 2021
LAST CALL: Global Grant Scholarship Opportunity
District 6270 Global Grant Scholarship:   A Global Grant Scholarship in the amount of U.S. $30,000 is being offered by Rotary International District 6270 for matriculation in the Fall 2021 or Spring 2022. Must be for a graduate level program overseas, not in the United States, and must align closely with one of RI’s Areas of Focus. Applicants must hold at least an undergraduate degree or anticipate graduation within the current year. Application deadline is January 15, 2021; interviews, February 6; announcement of grant recipient, February 15. Application form and applicable reference documents are accessible in the Scholarship Resource Center of the RI District 6270 web site (www.rotary6270.org).
 
Please pass along this information to any aspiring scholar whom you know or meet who might be qualified to apply. Feel free to contact Larry Myers with any questions.
NAMI Southeast Wisconsin
Posted on Jan 15, 2021
NAMI Southeast Wisconsin
Sarah Pfeiffle of NAMI Southeast Wisconsin briefed Elmbrook Rotary on Friday, January 15, about the programs of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness).
 
She especially addressed the objectives, efforts, and results of the PATH (Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness) program. PATH has been financially supported for the past several years by an Elmbrook Rotary Mini-Grant.
 
The NAMI Southeast Wisconsin website can be accessed by clicking here in order to learn more about NAMI and its program. Click on the image below to view Ms. Pfeiffle's most informative presentation.
 
Bill Selzer's Thanks & Tips
Posted on Jan 07, 2021
Bill Selzer's Thanks & Tips
In 2020 Elm Grove Fire Chief (Retired) William Selzer was named as the "Business Person of the Year" by Elmbrook Rotary in recognition of his 47 years of service. He recently provided the photo below, displaying the ERC recognition plaque alongside other memorabilia in his home office.
 
 
In addition, Chief Selzer sent a letter of gratitude intended for the entire club membership. Click here to read his letter, which also contains fire prevention tips that can be profitably put to use by all of us.
 
Congratulations again to Fire Chief (Retired) Bill Selzer!
Want to Meet In-Person?
Posted on Dec 31, 2020
Want to Meet In-Person?
Elmbrook Rotary Club is not yet "formally" meeting in person, nor does it intend to change the venue for its normal meeting space. However, some members have expressed the desire to try meeting in-person with very limited numbers. ERC Director Jackson Bubolz is organizing the effort.
 
The plan is to try meeting on Friday mornings at the Sendik's Food Market at The Corners of Brookfield. Address is 20222 Lower, Union Street. The market has a roomy area which accommodates a small group. They will have coffee prepared for sale, and baked goods (or anything else in the grocery store) will be able to be purchased.
 
Plan to arrive at no later than 6:50 a.m. on Friday mornings to make your purchases and to socialize. The online Zoom meeting will begin at 7:00 a.m., for which purpose you need to bring along a smart phone, laptop, or tablet. The hope is to maintain social distancing, yet interact live once again. Come check it out!
How to Be an Ally
Posted on Jan 13, 2021
How to Be an Ally
The RI District 6270 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) task force is excited to present "Building Goodwill and Better Friendships: How to Be an Ally". This session will address why allies are needed in the workplace.  Are you an actor (spectator), ally, or accomplice?  We will discuss concrete ways to be an ally in the workplace as well as provide a summary of dos and don'ts for allies.  Lastly, we’ll discuss what it takes to rise to the challenge of going to the next level – that of being an accomplice.
 
Please join us Monday, January 25, from 6:00 to 7:15 p.m.
 
If you haven't already done so, register in advance for this meeting:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. 
 
Read more...
Meet Ana Ramirez
Posted on Jan 06, 2021
Meet Ana Ramirez
Ana V. Ramirez is the 8th student at the Common Hope School in Guatemala who has been sponsored by the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation.
 
 
Ana's family income is U.S. $364/month, and the six-member family lives in a small concrete-block home (10 meters by 10 meters). They obtain water and electricity from neighbors and must use an outhouse for a bathroom.
 
Ana is an 11th Grade student, enrolled in Marketing and Advertising Certification. Her anticipated graduation date is November 2022. Since 2014, six members of Elmbrook Rotary Club (accompanied by four family members) have made the trip to Guatemala for the graduation exercises, a weekend-long celebration with, and support for, our sponsored student and her/his family. Any club member can volunteer to represent the club. Contact Erik Moeser if interested.
ERC Global Grant Paid by TRF
Posted on Dec 31, 2020
ERC Global Grant Paid by TRF
On December 28 the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) was notified that The Rotary Foundation has paid out $47,300 from its World Fund in support of Global Grant 2099786, "Pediatric Ventilators Santo Domingo Ecuador." The amount includes $11,000 of District Designated Funds (DFF) from Rotary District 6270.
 
     
 
 
Read more...
The Future of Rotary
Posted on Jan 07, 2021
The Future of Rotary
The Rotary Club of Troy, MI, and RI District 6380, (an international district that comprises parts of southeastern Michigan and also Canada) hosted an online presentation and Q&A on January 6 with John Hewko, Rotary International General Secretary. The program is most informative and provides Hewko's perspective on "The Future of Rotary." Enjoy the embedded YouTube video, or click here to access if trying to view from the Elmbrook Rotary Club's weekly eBulletin.
 
 
January is "Vocational Service" Month
Posted on Jan 04, 2021
January is "Vocational Service" Month

Through vocational service, Rotarians contribute their professional expertise and skills to address societal problems and needs, and to promote high ethical standards in the workplace.
Rotarians have two benchmarks for promoting professional integrity:  the Rotary Code of Conduct and the Four-Way Test. Click on "Read more" to study these two benchmarks.

Rotarians can support vocational service by 

  • Strengthening the emphasis on professional diversity in member recruitment; 
  • Identifying ways to emphasize professions in club activities;
  • Placing a stronger emphasis on business networking with integrity at the club and district level -- which also is a means of attracting and mentoring the next generation; and
  • Emphasizing the connection between The Four-Way Test and the Rotary Code of Conduct and their importance to the values of Rotary.
Read more...
2020 ERC "Holiday Party"
Posted on Dec 18, 2020
2020 ERC "Holiday Party"
The ERC 2020 Christmas Program will never be forgotten! Not deterred by COVID-19 and the limitations of an online Zoom video conference, coordinator Gary Gilmore (with the assistance of Jim Finn, Steve Stocker, and others) put together a pre-recorded presentation. It is available on the YouTube platform and be accessed by clicking here or on the image below.
 
 
Thanks to all who contributed and participated!
ERC Provides Gifts to SaintA Families
Posted on Dec 18, 2020
ERC Provides Gifts to SaintA Families
On December 17, 2020, the Elmbrook Rotary Club presented a collection of 90 gifts to families currently being assisted by SaintA in Milwaukee. The mission of SaintA is "to facilitate equity, learning, healing and wellness by the restoring connections that help children and families thrive."
 
 
The families and staff at SaintA were overwhelmed by the generosity of ERC members who shopped for, purchased, and wrapped the gifts that brightened the holidays for many families. Thanks to ERC member Jack Nelson for coordinating the effort!
International Mini-Grants Approved
Posted on Dec 15, 2020
International Mini-Grants Approved
 
 
The Elmbrook Rotary Foundation (ERF) Board of Directors has approved the following mini-grants for international projects:
 
  • Common Hope Student Sponsorship—$1,200
  • Common Hope Vision Team Support—$2,500
  • India E-Learning—$4,800
  • Friends for Health in Haiti—$2,500
  • Marquette Univ. Engineers without Borders (EWB) in Guatemala—$3,500
  • Giraffe Children's Charity—$1,100
 
Keeping Rotarians Connected
Posted on Dec 15, 2020
Keeping Rotarians Connected
If, on December 8, you missed Kristin Bock's special online presentation, fear not!
 
Entitled "Keeping Rotarians Connected: Using Nonverbal Communication in a Digital World," the presentation is now available on YouTube. Simply click here or on the image below.
 
New Leaders for ERC & ERF
Posted on Dec 09, 2020
New Leaders for ERC & ERF
The "Annual Meeting" of both the Elmbrook Rotary Club and the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation occurred on Friday, December 3.
 
Part of this online gathering included the election of new leaders for both the club and the foundation.
 
Elected to the Board of Directors for both organizations for a three-year term (Class of 2024) were Jeanne Allen and Bonnie Bertram. Past President Paul Langer was also elected to the Board of Directors for a one-year term (Class of 2022). Their tenure of office takes effect on July 1, 2021.
 
ERC member Tom Steinbach was elected to serve as Sergeant-at-Arms, beginning on July 1, 2021, and succeeding to Secretary, Vice-President, & President in succeeding years.
 
Congratulations to all, and thanks for being willing to serve!
ERC First-Ever Online Auction Update
Posted on Dec 09, 2020
ERC First-Ever Online Auction Update
ERC's historic, first-ever, ONLINE SILENT AUCTION experienced awesome, smashing results!  A total of $11,299 was raised (bids, $8,824; donations, $1,475; & auction sponsorship, $1,000).
 
Combined with the annual "Spikes for Tykes" fundraiser results, this amount has already enabled ERC committees to authorize nearly $30,000 through the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation to support the charitable activities of 17 different organizations. Fantastic!
 
Thanks to all for your participation!  Please contact anyone on the committee with any follow-up questions.
 
Online Silent Auction Committee:
Kevin Roche, Chair; Tom Hochuli, Honorary Member; Kathy Becker; Bonnie Bertram; Kate Bloomberg; Mike Groth; Jackie Radomski.
Common Hope Guatemala Graduation
Posted on Nov 29, 2020
Common Hope Guatemala Graduation
Because of COVID-19, sponsors of graduating students at the Common Hope School in Guatemala were not able to attend graduation events in person. However, the Common Hope organization arranged for two Zoom events in order to connect sponsors with their graduating students. Sergio Cuc C(Z)elada, who has been sponsored by the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation, was among the graduates.
 
 
Sergio hopes to attend a university in order to study Agriculture or Civil Engineering. Click here to read letters of gratitude from both Common Hope and from Sergio himself.
 
On November 1, Common Hope also debuted its "Salute to Hope," a video that explains and celebrates its work in Guatemala. Click on the image below to access the video, available on YouTube.
 
 

Share Hope this Holiday

This holiday season, please consider sharing hope with students and families in Guatemala. You can shop the Special Edition Gift Catalog in support of Covid-19 Crisis Response, send a note to someone in Guatemala to let them know you’re thinking of them, or order the NEW limited edition Holiday Boxes in the Common Hope Holiday Shop!  Click here or on the image below to shop and order. Thank you for helping to deliver hope this holiday!

Veterans in Focus 2020
Posted on Dec 01, 2020
Veterans in Focus 2020
Veterans in Focus (VIF) trains veterans in photography, videography, and film. The local program at the Zablocki VA Medical Center has been financially supported by the Elmbrook Rotary Club's annual Mini-Grants effort for the past several years. Because of COVID-19, there will not be a VIF public display this year. However, do view the short video below which explains the objects of the program and some results of the 2020 training sessions.
 
 
If unable to access when attempting to view on a mobile device, click on the Veterans Day 2020 image below.
 
 
Through the Milwaukee VA Veterans in Focus program, veterans are able to express themselves and possibly even begin to prepare themselves for a career.
The USSS Investigates ERC
Posted on Oct 31, 2020
The USSS Investigates ERC
On October 30, 2020, Elmbrook Rotary Club had the privilege of being visited by Special Agent Tyrone ("Ty") Daniels of the U.S. Secret Service. However, rather than "investigating" Elmbrook Rotary, Special Agent Daniels provided a most interesting overview of the history and mission of the United States Secret Service. Keeping ERC members stumped with historical trivia, SA Daniels enlightened all participants with a most interesting presentation. Click on SA Daniels' image below to access the 45-minute presentation.
 
 
SA Daniels provided an overview on the following topics:  whom the Secret Service is authorized to protect; the types of crimes the Secret Service investigates; how the Secret Service differs from other federal law enforcement agencies; the role the Secret Service had in Milwaukee’s DNC Convention (working with ERC's own Linda Wickstrom); and why agents seem to always wear sunglasses.
 
If you are not yet joining Elmbrook Rotary at 07:00 a.m. on Friday mornings, do consider it.
World Polio Day Cycling Fundraiser
Posted on Oct 28, 2020
World Polio Day Cycling Fundraiser
Saturday, October 24, was World Polio Day.    Mark Zalewski, ERC Treasurer, is a member of Cycling2Serve, a Rotary Fellowship. In past years Cycling2Serve has organized a major event in Tucson that has raised millions for End Polio Now.   In this year of COVID-19 it organized virtual rides around the world in order to raise funds.  Check out this Rotary Fellowship and the annual event by clicking here or on the image below.
 
 
Mark Zalewski is also a member of the local Bay View Bike Club, which had its regular rides scheduled for Saturday, October 24. Therefore, he combined the two events in order to raise some money for End Polio Now.  He rode a total of 56 miles (five of them due to a wrong turn) and raised more than $1,000 for End Polio Now. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation will match these donations at a 2 for 1 level. 
 
ERC members are encouraged to fulfill their pledged commitments, either directly through The Rotary Foundation (TRF) or by using the pledge form from Cycling2Serve. One can also send a check to ERC Foundation Treasurer, Gordy Mueller, for forwarding to TRF. Please also let Mark Z. know or include his name in the information to The Rotary Foundation so that the Elmbrook Rotary Club gets credit for the donation.
 
Thanks to all for supporting this World Polio Day fundraiser! And, special thanks for Mark Z. for doing this!
 
Walk for Hope Update
Posted on Oct 04, 2020
Walk for Hope Update
In its very first year, Walk For Hope showed that despite being physically distant, we've never been more united! Together, more than 1,060 generous donors and 402 walkers raised $100,000!  Elmbrook Rotary Club contributed with 12 walkers and $1,193. Each dollar helps to fund 1,040+ months of programming for Common Hope students. The enthusiasm, generosity, and positive energy generated across borders and around the world are truly inspiring!
 
 
 
View the Common Hope “thank-you video” above to learn the whole story. Click here if unable directly to access the video.
EGNI Publicity on ERC's 2020 AVID Scholarships
Posted on Oct 06, 2020
EGNI Publicity on ERC's 2020 AVID Scholarships
An article on our 2020 ERC AVID scholarships has been published in the October 2020 edition of the Elm Grove News - Independent. Click here to access the publication. The story is on p. 6.
 
Earlier this summer the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) announced the  2020 recipients for its AVID Scholarships. These scholarships were awarded in an online setting and presented by Past President Mike Schmeling.
 
For the past several years, ERC has limited its scholarships to participants in the AVID program in the Elmbrook School District. Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is a school-wide approach to curriculum and rigor adopted by more than 4,000 schools in 45 states and 15 countries over 28 years. It is a research-based program that equips students to meet the challenges of rigorous coursework in high school and college. Also, AVID is closing the opportunity gap in college graduation rates among diverse and underrepresented demographic groups.
 
The 2020 ERC Scholarship recipients were:
 
Ms. Emma Harris - Brookfield Central
Receives $1000 annually for 4 years and will attend UW-Whitewater
 
Mr. Daniel Epple - Brookfield East
Receives $1000 annually for 4 years and will attend UW-Madison
 
Ms. Julia Hickey - Brookfield Central
Receives $1000 annually for 2 years and will attend Waukesha County Technical College
 
Congratulations to these three outstanding students as we encourage them to work hard and thrive in the next level of their education!
You'll Be Back
Posted on Sep 23, 2020
You'll Be Back
Yes, "You'll be back.!
 
So states the popular song in Hamilton, the broadway musical.
 
However, it appears that it won't be as quickly as we had hoped. In-person attendance on Friday mornings has not been what was originally projected, and The Western Racquet Club cannot financially justify the low numbers.
 
In-person meetings for Elmbrook Rotary Club are therefore suspended once again. We return to Zoom only.
 
But, "You'll be back!"
GG Scholar Presents at Elmbrook Rotary
Posted on Sep 25, 2020
GG Scholar Presents at Elmbrook Rotary
Ciara McHugh, the RI District 6270 Global Grant Scholar for 2018-2019, was the featured presenter for Elmbrook Rotary's Zoom "virtual meeting" on Friday, September 25.
 
Ciara is in her third year of a Ph.D. research studies program at Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland. Her RI Area of Focus is "Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution." Her specific research centers on the intersection and impact of technology (especially social media) on the tensions between police and minority communities. Click on the image of Ciara below to view a Zoom recording of her presentation.
 
 
During this past year, Ciara has also been instrumental in the formation and leadership of a Rotaract Club at QUB in Belfast. She joyfully shared that ongoing experience with ERC.
 
Both Elmbrook Rotary and all of RI District 6270 can be proud of the contributions of this budding scholar to the world at large and to Rotary International. She is a prime example of what supporting The Rotary Foundation can accomplish.
ERC Participates in "Walk for Hope"
Posted on Sep 25, 2020
ERC Participates in "Walk for Hope"
Elmbrook Rotary culminated its annual fundraising effort, "Spikes for Tykes," on Saturday, September 19, with a service project.
 
COVID-19 prevented the normal volleyball event as well as the celebratory silent auction banquet. Therefore, both club members and family members gathered in Mitchell Park in Brookfield to participate in Common Hope's "SponsorPalooza Virtual Walk for Hope." Approximately 20 participants walked the route and/or contributed toward the effort by making a financial contribution.
 
 
ERC's submitted donations have approached $1,000. However, commitments are still arriving, and fulfillment of pledges (or new submissions) are encouraged by no later than the end of the month. Common Hope's walk-a-thon results will be announced on October 1.
 
In addition, Dr. Dan Zomchek announced that he and his spouse Jennifer have committed to sponsoring a student at the Common Hope school in Guatemala as part of the "SponsorPalooza" challenge. They join a growing list of Elmbrook Rotary families who have done the same. To learn more about Common Hope, check out their programs at this URL.
ERC Story in Elm Grove News Independent
Posted on Sep 16, 2020
ERC Story in Elm Grove News Independent
The 10th Anniversary Edition of the Elm Grove News-Independent (September 2020) contains an article on Elmbrook Rotary's "Business Person of the Year" award.
 
The award recipient was announced (via Zoom) on Friday, August 14, 2020.  The 2020 awardee was William ("Bill") Selzer, retired Fire Chief of the Village of Elm Grove Fire Department. Award committee chair (and ERC member) Ralph Gould announced the awardee and later presented him with the applicable plaque.
 
 
The story appears on p. 6 of this anniversary edition. Printed copies are available at many locations, including the Elm Grove Public Library, Sendik's, and Ace Hardware. The file can also be viewed online (click on ARCHIVE).
 
Congratulations again to Chief Selzer!
"Million Dollar Journey" Update & Continuation
Posted on Sep 09, 2020
"Million Dollar Journey" Update & Continuation

Rotary Million Dollar Journey Reaches its Goal… and Continues

After reaching a $1,000,000 fundraising goal early, Rotary International Districts 6220 & 6270 extend the goal deadline and dollar amount to support the Rotary Foundation during trying times.
 
A joint effort between the Wisconsin & Michigan Rotarians of districts 6220 and 6270 to raise $1,000,000 for the Rotary Foundation by October, 2020, reached its goal four months early. With that success, and with even greater need, the districts will continue the journey by raising more funds, and a new conclusion in April, 2021.
 
A bit over one year ago, on the recommendation of Rotary International District Governors Steve Handrick and Steen Sanderhoff, their respective districts embarked on a path to collectively raise one million dollars of new gifts to the Rotary Foundation; a Million Dollar Journey. With many generous gifts – each in excess of $10,000 – from both districts, the goal was reached early, in July of 2020.
Read more...
African Region Polio Free
African Region Polio Free
The World Health Organization (WHO) on August 25. 2020, announced that transmission of the wild poliovirus has officially been stopped in all 47 countries of its African region. This is an historic and vital step toward global eradication of polio, which is Rotary’s top priority.
 
[Click on the photo above to read the full story.]
 
Now that the African region is free of wild poliovirus, five of WHO’s six regions, representing more than 90 percent of the world’s population, are free of the disease. Polio caused by the wild virus is still endemic in Afghanistan and Pakistan (the WHO’s Eastern Mediterranean region).
2020 ERC Business Person of the Year
Posted on Aug 14, 2020
2020 ERC Business Person of the Year
 
In its virtual meeting (via Zoom) on Friday, August 14, 2020, Elmbrook Rotary Club announced the recipient of its "Business Person of the Year" award. The 2020 awardee is William ("Bill") Selzer, retired Fire Chief of the Village of Elm Grove Fire Department. [Click on the image above to view a video of the award presentation.]
 
Retired Chief Selzer provided 47 years of service to the Village of Elm Grove in its Fire Department. 31 of those years were as Fire Chief.
 
Interim Fire Chief David Kastenholz shared the following comments:  "Bill was a respected leader in the fire service; his innovation and leadership skills were as strong as anyone I have ever worked with in the fire service or the corporate world. Bill understood how to treat the people he worked with. When things went well and there was praise to be given, he always made sure the department received it. Bill never needed nor did he want to be in the lime-light. Bill had a collaborative attitude; he knew we would always be a better department if we interacted with the other departments within the Village as well as our neighboring departments. Joint training and sharing of resources occurred while Bill was Chief. Bill was responsible for modernizing our apparatus and equipment. If we felt there was a piece of equipment that would help us do our job in a safer and more efficient manner, Bill was on-board.  Bill's command presence was unflappable! No matter what was going, Bill remained cool, calm, and collected! That presence gave all of us the opportunity to do our jobs to the best of our ability."
 
 
Elmbrook Rotary Club also announced that it has named an annual two-year scholarship the "Elmbrook Rotary Bill Selzer First Responder Scholarship." This scholarship will be reserved for, and given to, selected students who desire to pursue a career as a first responder.
 
Congratulations to Fire Chief (Retired) Selzer! We salute you, and thank you for your service!
Rotary Opens Opportunities
Posted on Jun 29, 2020
Rotary Opens Opportunities
Holger Knaack, member of the Rotary Club of Herzogtum-Lauenburg-Möln, Germany, is Rotary International President for 2020-2021.
 
A Rotary member since 1992, Knaack has served Rotary as treasurer, director, moderator, member and chair of several committees, representative for the Council on Legislation, zone coordinator, training leader, and district governor. He is an endowment/major gifts adviser and was co-chair of the Host Organization Committee for the 2019 Rotary International Convention in Hamburg. Knaack and his wife, Susanne, are Major Donors to The Rotary Foundation and members of the Bequest Society.
 
 
Rotary Opens Opportunities is the theme chosen by President Knaack for 2020-2021. At the International Assembly in San Diego in January 2020, he had the following to say about his theme: "So as you can see, Rotary is not just a club that you join. It is an invitation to endless opportunities. It opens opportunities to serve in a project as big and historic as End Polio Now and also in a small community project, where you just plant a tree. And it opens opportunities for you to live a richer, more meaningful life, with friends around the world, based on our core values. As Rotarians, we are very blessed to take on leadership roles at this wonderful moment for our organization. Everything we do opens another opportunity for someone, somewhere. Therefore, the theme for our year is: Rotary Opens Opportunities."
Nancy Rhodes Recipient of RI "Service Above Self"
Posted on May 26, 2020
Nancy Rhodes Recipient of RI "Service Above Self"
An RI District 6270 member has been awarded with Rotary International's "Service Above Self" award! Nancy Rhodes of the West Allis Rotary Club is the honored recipient.
 
Rotary’s highest honor recognizes Rotarians who demonstrate Rotary’s motto, Service Above Self, by volunteering their time and talents to help others. The award is internationally competitive and is granted to no more than 150 Rotarians worldwide, and no more than one from each district, each year.

Nancy Rhodes is a DYNAMO! She is a strong, determined, compassionate, tireless, & effective leader, in & out of Rotary. Since joining Rotary in 1988 -just one year after the Supreme Court ruled Rotary clubs may not exclude women based on gender- Nancy has held leadership positions at all levels of Rotary - from Club to International.  Her husband, Don Drecktrah, is also a Rotarian.
Nancy personifies what the Service Above Self award is all about. She is extremely dedicated to Rotary, and particularly to The Rotary Foundation, where she works diligently to identify prospective donors. As one member/donor put it, “She may be little, but Nancy can pick you up and shake you until every last nickel falls out of your pockets. And… she does it with a smile.”  
 

She is generous with her time, talents, & knowledge; her calendar is always full of Rotary meetings, events, & projects. Nancy never expects from others what she herself does not give, often many times over. What many aren’t aware of is her accomplishments behind the scenes:  advocating & promoting support of people, ideas, & projects; quietly inspiring others to give money for causes; identifying people’s talents/capabilities & getting them involved in areas where they can make an impact. It is work with many hours of organizing, directing & being on one’s feet, the results of which many take for granted.

Nancy was one of the first women to join a Rotary club. After decades of service at the local, district, zone, and international levels, she is now duly recognized. Congratulations, Nancy!

The Rotary Foundation
Posted on May 20, 2020
The Rotary Foundation
On Friday, May 22, ERC member and TRF (The Rotary Foundation) rep for the club, Tom Curl, provided a motivational report to Elmbrook Rotary Club that encouraged support of TRF.
 
Usually, when "Foundation" is mentioned, ERC members think of the Elmbrook Rotary Club Foundation, which annually provides approximately $70,000 to charitable organizations both nationally and internationally.  Click here or on the image below to read about the ERC Foundation work during the 2018-2019 Rotary Year.
 
However, Tom's emphasis was on The Rotary Foundation globally and how to donate. A handful of other ERC members provided testimonies of how they have made commitments to TRF through personal wills, family estate trusts, IRA distributions, and outright gifts. Emphasis was also given to the "Million Dollar Journey" of RI District 6270. Joining the meeting was Nancy Rhodes, a Past District Governor of District 6270 and current Endowment/Major Gifts Advisor for Zone 29.
 
 
ERC members who shared their stories nearly unanimously made mention of ERC's own international efforts at the Common Hope school in Guatemala and credited that involvement as an incentive for their own commitments to The Rotary Foundation.
TRF Donor Opportunities
Posted on Jan 29, 2020
TRF Donor Opportunities
 
 
WHAT DOES THE ROTARY FOUNDATION DO WITH ITS MONEY?
 
 
The Rotary Foundation spends charitable contributions on multiple programs - from the eradication of polio, to scholarships, vocational training teams, Rotary Peace Centers, and humanitarian projects. The funds are used for programs and projects Rotarians feel passionate about. With a four-star rating by Charity Navigator for ten years in a row and over 1.2 million Rotarians overseeing the funds at a grassroots level, you have all the confidence in the world that your funds through Rotary are in amazing hands doing amazing work here and abroad.
 
You can read stories and see the details
of The Rotary Foundation’s financials
in the most recent Annual Report on rotary.org. 
 
 
Online ERC & ERF Payments/Donations
Posted on Sep 11, 2019
Online ERC & ERF Payments/Donations
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.
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.
2020 Business Person of the Year

The Elmbrook Rotary Club is pleased to announce that its 2020 Business Person of the Year award recipient is Village of Elm Grove Retired Fire Chief William ("Bill") Selzer.

[Click on the photo to view the presentation.]

Chief Selzer served for 47 years with the Elm Grove Fire Department, 31 of those years as Fire Chief. He retired, effective June 1, 2020; however, his legacy will last for much longer. Interim Fire Chief David Kastenholz commented, "Bill's command presence was unflappable! No matter what was going on, Bill remained cool, calm, and collected! That presence gave all of us the opportunity to do our jobs to the best of our ability."

Under committee chair Ralph Gould, the Elmbrook Rotary Club annually presents its "Business Person of the Year" award to an individual who has displayed unique entrepreneurial skills and abilities in the community.

Elmbrook Rotary Club also announced that it has named an annual two-year scholarship the "Elmbrook Rotary Bill Selzer First Responder Scholarship ," intended to motivate and financially support students who wish to become first responders.

Congratulations, Chief Selzer! Thanks for your service!

Rotary 2020-2021 Theme
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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
Steve Merritt
Jan 29, 2021
Salvation Army
Dan Jongetjes - GM, John's Disposal
Feb 05, 2021 7:00 AM
Single Stream Recycling - How it Works & Where Does it All Go?
Tom Plantenberg
Feb 12, 2021
World Affairs Seminar
Dr. David Gaus
Feb 19, 2021
Andean Health & Development
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Club Officers
President
Tom Hochuli
President Elect
Thom Arndt
Secretary
Harry Farchmin
Treasurer
Mark Zalewski
Sergeant-at-Arms
Christine Spresser
Immediate Past President
Michael Schmeling
Director (Past President)
Tom Curl
Director
Daniel Zomchek
Director
Marie Owens
Director
Jim Dunn
Director
Noaman Sharief
Director
Jackson Bubolz
Director
Gordy Miller
Membership
John Allen
Programs
Mark Thurner
Programs
Thomas Steinbach
Public Image Chair
Larry Myers
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:
    Tom Ehrsam, Jane Koons, & Renato Westby
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