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Russell Hampton
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Club Information
Welcome to our Club!
Elmbrook (Brookfield)
We Rise & Shine
Fridays at 7:00 AM
Western Racquet Club
1800 Highland Drive
Elm Grove, WI 53122
United States of America
Attendance also possible via Zoom.
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Venue Map
Upcoming Events
Weekly Meeting
Western Racquet Club
Aug 27, 2021 7:00 AM
 
Weekly Meeting
Western Racquet Club
Sep 03, 2021 7:00 AM
 
Weekly Meeting
Western Racquet Club
Sep 10, 2021 7:00 AM
 
Weekly Meeting
Western Racquet Club
Sep 17, 2021 7:00 AM
 
Sept Social: Elm Grove Oktoberfest
Elm Grove Village Park
Sep 18, 2021
4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
 
ERC & Foundation BoD meeting
Zoom
Sep 22, 2021
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
 
Weekly Meeting
Western Racquet Club
Sep 24, 2021 7:00 AM
 
Weekly Meeting
Western Racquet Club
Oct 01, 2021 7:00 AM
 
Weekly Meeting
Western Racquet Club
Oct 08, 2021 7:00 AM
 
Oct. Social: Progressive Dinner
Oct 09, 2021
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
 
View entire list
Speakers
Aug 27, 2021
All about Ron and Rotary
Sep 03, 2021
Coaching & Consulting LLC
Sep 10, 2021
Sep 17, 2021
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee
Sep 24, 2021
Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity
Oct 01, 2021
The Ability Center
Oct 08, 2021
Old World Wisconsin and The Museum of Beer and Brewing
View entire list
Sponsors
Interested in being a sponsor?
Download the website sponsorship guide
Rotary RSS Feed

Rotaractors harness the power of their networks to amplify their impact.

 

Learn more about the projects that Rotarians and Rotaractors are bringing to life in their communities

 

Gordon McInally selected to be 2023-24 Rotary International President

 

Members and government health officials use boats to reach villages deep in the rainforest.

 

Learn more about the projects that Rotarians and Rotaractors are bringing to life in their communities.

 
Photo Albums
Guatemala Vision Team 2020
Walk for Hope 2021
2019 Spikes for Tykes
Guatemala Team 2019
RI RSS Feed

Rotaractors harness the power of their networks to amplify their impact.

 

Learn more about the projects that Rotarians and Rotaractors are bringing to life in their communities

 

Gordon McInally selected to be 2023-24 Rotary International President

 
Executives & Directors
President
 
President Elect
 
Secretary
 
Treasurer
 
Sergeant-at-Arms
 
Immediate Past President
 
Director (Past President)
 
Director
 
Director
 
Director
 
Director
 
Director
 
Director
 
Membership
 
Programs
 
Public Image Chair
 
The Rotary Foundation
 
 
Elmbrook Rotary Club is pleased to recognize the following . . .
 
Emeritus Director:
     William Isbister (deceased)
 
Honorary Members:
     Tom Ehrsam, Jane Koons,
     & Renato Westby
Last Call for School Supplies Drive
The ERC Community Service Committee will collect school supplies at the front door of the Western Racquet Club prior to this week's August 27th meeting. This will be the last collection date for this year's school supplies drive. Thanks to all for your generous donations.
 
This school supplies drive is on behalf of the 95th Street School as well as St A's Cathy's Closet. The 95th Street School is a K4-5th Grade MPS facility where ERC members will be tutoring this year, and Cathy's Closet is for  children that are in St A's foster program.
 
 
If you want to support the school supplies drive but are unable to purchase items, Jan Constable will become your buyer. Just give him an envelope with your name on it and money placed inside the envelope. He will purchase the supplies and return the envelop to you with the supplies' receipt tucked inside.
 
Needed School Supplies
Backpacks
Pencil Boxes large and small
Pencil Pouches w/3 rings
# 2 Pencils
Boxes of crayons - 24 Count
Boxes of colored pencils
Boxes of washable markers
Dry erase markers
Permanent markers (Sharpies)
Highlighters
Large glue sticks 
2 pocket folders
2 pocket folders w/prongs and fasteners
Spiral note books
Flash cards - math
Pink erasers
Packages of cap erasers
Manual pencil sharpeners
White glue
Scissors
Scissors with bunt ends
Rulers
1" binders
1 - 5 tabbed dividers for binders
Blue lined loose leaf paper
Bottles of hand sanitizer
Lysol wipes
Regular size boxes of Kleenex
Rolls of paper towels
Large packs of napkins
Packs of Play-doh
Boxes of Ziploc sandwich bags
Boxes of ziploc gallon bags
Boxes of Band-Aids for K4 & K5 classes
Water bottles for gym class
Stories
Green Bay Packers Ticket Raffle Fundraiser
NFL training camps have started, Aaron Rodgers is back, and Elmbrook Rotary kicked off its 6th Annual Green Bay Packers Ticket Raffle Fundraiser at Friday's club meeting on July 30!
 
 
Volunteers are needed to help sell and hand out tickets before club meetings and at the Brookfield Farmers Market on Saturday mornings through September 4. Sign up sheets will be available to solicit volunteers.
 
Raffle winners will be drawn at the ERC meeting on September 10. Each winner receives two tickets to one of eight Packer home games.
 
To make a donation to our fundraiser and purchase your Packer Raffle Tickets online, click here or on the image below.
 
 
This is a great way to promote our club, build awareness for the causes we support, and raise funds in the process. GO PACK!!
 
[Printing donations by National Sign & Design - New Berlin, WI and Special Editions - Sussex, WI]
 
          
Oconomowoc Rotary Bicycle Tour Fundraiser
On September 18, 2021, the Oconomowoc Rotary Club is sponsoring a Bicycle Tour to raise funds toward completion of a new riding trail that stretches from Oconomowoc to Watertown. 
 
Entry fees vary:  $45 per rider & $95 per family (up to 4 people) when pre-registered; $50 per rider & $100 per family (up to 4 people) on the day of the event. Riding distances also vary:  8-, 16-, & 38-mile options.
 
Click here or on the image below to access detailed information and to register for this unique opportunity.
 
August Birthdays & Anniversaries
 
 
Please join the Elmbrook Rotary Club in celebrating our esteemed member Birthdays and Anniversaries in August.
 
 
 
“Write about winter in the summer.” – Annie Dillard
Happy Birthday! Wishing a wonderful year of good health, happiness, and success to our members:
 
  • Thom Arndt
  • Phyllis Blodgett
  • Don Down
  • Caz Laska
  • Mike Lauer
  • Dan Roads
  • Mark Thurner
  • Angela Willms
 
ERC also recognizes the following membership anniversaries:
 
  • Chris Salani, 7 years
  • Mike Schmeling, 10 years
  • Jon DeVries, 11 years
  • Ralph Gould, 18 years
  • Caz Laska, 26 years
  • Jim Finn, 28 years
  • Caz Laska, 28 years
  • Gary Gilmore, 29 years
  • Ron Jones, 35 years
Read more...
Brad Schimel at ERC on August 20
Brad Schimel, Waukesha County Circuit Court Judge, addressed the Elmbrook Rotary Club on Friday, August 20, on the topic of the "Waukesha County Drug Treatment Court Program."
 

Judge Schimel grew up in the Town of Vernon and graduated from Mukwonago High School. He attended UW Waukesha for 2 years and then finished his Bachelor Degree at UW Milwaukee. He began his career in the Waukesha County Courthouse as an intern in the DA's Office in 1989, and, after graduating UW Law School in 1990, was hired as an Assistant DA. He served as an Assistant DA until he was elected Waukesha County District Attorney in 2006 and was twice reelected as DA. He left the courthouse in 2015 after being elected Wisconsin Attorney General. Brad and his family stayed here in Waukesha County, and he returned to the courthouse as a Circuit Court Judge in January 2019.
Need Rotary Supplies?
Since 1920 the Russell Hampton Company has been Rotary's original club supplies vendor. The company is the world's largest and most respected provider of Rotary Club supplies, awards, personalized gifts, apparel, signage, and more.
 
Interested? Click on the image below.
 
ERC in EGNI August 2021 Edition
The August edition of the Elm Grove News - Independent carries a Rotary article on The Women's Center by ERC member Mike Hogan.
 
You'll find the article on p. 6, an ERC ad in the "Business Directory" on p. 3, and the ERC Friday meetings information on p. 5.
 
Click here to access and read. Copies are also available for pick up at the Elm Grove and Brookfield libraries, Sendik's, Ace Hardware, etc.
Upcoming Social Events

With CoViD-19 lockdowns hopefully behind us, the Elmbrook Rotary Club is back to socializing and having fun.   Our monthly socials are one of the ways that our members  “build GOOD WILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS,” the third tenet of the Four-Way Test of "the things we think, say, or do."  Mark your calendars now for the following socials.

September 18 — Elm Grove Oktoberfest.  It's the best beer time of the year, and we're going to celebrate all the special seasonal brews at the Elm Grove Oktoberfest.  This social is a club favorite and supports the Elm Grove Community Foundation.  Hope to see you and your family there!  Look for our starting at 4:00 p.m. in the beer tent.

October 9 — Progressive Dinner.   We’re going to do things a bit differently this year (for health safety reasons). Instead of having dinner at members' homes, small groups will meet for dinner at various restaurants (TBD).  After dinner, we’ll all progress to Steve and Mary Ponto’s home for dessert.

The Elmbrook Rotary Club is special because of the camaraderie shared among all our fellow Rotarians.  We hope you will join us at some/all of these great social events.  Spouses, guests, and prospective members are always welcome. 

MYAC Expansion
Elmbrook Rotary Club member Linda Edelstein is the Executive Director for the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra (MYSO). On Friday, August 6, together with Besty Corry, Managing Director of First Stage, and Del Wilson, Executive Director for the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center (MYAC), she provided an overview of the expansion project for the MYAC.
 
The center plans to renovate 42,000 square feet of underused space in the lower level of the current building in order to add two new rehearsal halls, six studios, and six small group instruction rooms, and to upgrade its mainstage hall on the facility’s main level.

The MYAC campus, which is the home of Milwaukee children’s theater group First Stage and the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra, consists of two buildings near the intersection of West Walnut Street and Vel R. Phillips Avenue: the main building at 325 W. Walnut St. and another building across the street at 1702 N. 4th St.

MYAC also plans to update the building’s systems to increase energy efficiency, improve safety and security with a reconfigured front entrance and improve technology in the facility.

The project is expected to be completed by the fall. MYAC is using Milwaukee-based Ramlow/Stein Architecture & Interiors and Brookfield-based Hunzinger Constructions Company for the project. A second phase of the project will include renovating MYAC’s building on Fourth Street, which the organization purchased in 2016. When completed, the project is expected to create nearly twice the available teaching, rehearsal, and performance space by allowing 20,000 additional children to participate in their programs annually. Other groups, including Milwaukee’s Children Choir and Danceworks, already rent the facility.

MYAC first opened in 2005 in collaboration with First Stage and MYSO. In addition to those two organizations, MYAC hosts Danceworks, Milwaukee Children’s Choir and Festival City Symphony. The center annually serves about 25,000 students from about 90 zip codes throughout southeastern Wisconsin and northern Illinois.

Final Five Voting
On Friday, July 30, Sara Eskrich, Executive Director of Democracy Found, provided a thought-stimulating and question-provoking overview of the concept of "Final Five Voting."
 

Democracy Found is a Wisconsin-based initiative committed to revitalizing democracy. The organization argues that implementing Final-Five Voting (a system wherein the top five candidates are selected from the primary ballot and instant runoff voting is used in the general election) will ensure that politicians are held accountable for delivering results. A bill on Final-Five Voting is currently being considered in the Wisconsin legislative chambers.

The concept of Final-Five Voting is explored and explained in The Politics Industry (available on Amazon), a book by path-breaking political innovator Katherine Gehl and business strategist Michael Porter. They apply the tools of business analysis—and Porter's distinctive Five Forces framework—to show how the political system functions just as every other competitive industry does, and how the duopoly has led to the outcomes we see today.

Using this competition lens, Gehl and Porter identify the most powerful lever for change—a strategy comprised of a clear set of choices in two key areas: how our elections work and how we make our laws. The Politics Industry hopes to open eyes to the true dynamics and profound challenges of the American political system and provide real solutions for reshaping the system for the benefit of all.

Transitioning of Longtime ERC Member
Ron Jones has been a Rotarian for 35+ years. He has announced to Elmbrook Rotary Club that he and his wife Barbara have sold their home here in Wisconsin and are retiring permanently to Florida. ERC members hope that this dedicated, faithful Rotarian will find another club in Florida OR even continue as an ERC member. The latter is possible because of how the CoViD-19 global pandemic has created opportunities for Rotary virtual membership in any club in the world.
 
Ron shares the following about his Rotary journey:
 
"My history with Rotary began (35 years ago) in April 1986.  I was VP of Patient Care Services at Elmbrook Memorial Hospital.  Dr. Sridhar Vasudevan, M.D., was assigned to launch a new evening Rotary Club in Brookfield by the Brookfield Rotary Club Board of Directors.  Dr. Vasudevan came to me, at Elmbrook Hospital, to garner interest in me and others to join Rotary.  We were designated a provisional club status on May 6, 1986. 

"On October 22, 1986, the club received its official charter at a large gathering hosted by the Brookfield Rotary Club.  The new Brookfield  Sunset Rotary Club began with 25 new members.  Jim Dunn and I were charter members on that night. 

"I was President-Elect, and Jim Dunn was on the Board and also chair of the Club Service Committee.  I had perfect attendance for my first 32 years. 

"After 23 years of Nursing and Administrative work at Elmbrook Memorial Hospital, I was recruited to be President of the Siebert Lutheran Foundation in June 1993.  In January 2014, I retired from Siebert Foundation."  

On Friday, July 16, Ron was "mugged" by ERC President Dr. Thom Arndt with a small farewell gift. Thanks, Ron, and richest blessings to you and Barbara as you make another "transition" in life.
 
"Million Dollar Journey" Update

Rotary Million Dollar Journey Reached its Goal . . . and More . . . and More!

A joint effort between the Wisconsin & Michigan Rotarians of Districts 6220 and 6270 to raise $1,000,000 for The Rotary Foundation (TRF) by October 2020 reached its goal four months early in July 2020. With that success, and with even greater need, the districts continued the journey by raising more funds. The campaign ended on June 30, 2021.

Tom Curl, our Elmbrook Rotary Club's TRF representative, reports that the final tally was USD $2,797,153!

In these unprecedented times of pandemic and economic uncertainty, this result once again demonstrates the "giving gene" that Rotarians possess. 

Recruitment for Guatemala 2022

The 11th trip to Antigua, Guatemala—in partnership with Common Hope—now has the  travel dates of February 7 and 13, 2022.

There is a core group of members/spouses planning to go. As was true in the past, the larger the team the better the experience.  As of this moment there are 10 persons who are planning to make the trip, and all have participated in prior years.  Newer members are most welcome, and encouraged, to join the group.  This is handled on a "first come first serve" basis, and the team can fill at the last minute.  At the moment there are around eight (8) slots open.

Please call  or write for further information.  If you have any questions, feel free to contact Erik Moeser,  an International Committee member, or any previously involved ERC member.

Tree and Plant Disease
Joe Addis, a Certified Arborist, visited Elmbrook Rotary on Friday, July 16. He is a Certified Arborist and a Certified Treecare Safety Professional with an associates degree and bachelor's degree in Urban Forestry. He can provide a comprehensive plant health care program, pruning recommendations, evaluation of the health and structure of trees, and a long term plan for maintaining landscapes. He works closely with residential and commercial property owners in caring for their trees and shrubs.
 
 
The information on "Tree and Plant Disease," which he provided to ERC, was much appreciated. One member commented:  "I wish that I had learned this years ago!"
Elmbrook Rotary's Arms Spread Wide
Rotary International is a world-wide organization of about 1.2 million business people and professionals in 35,000 clubs dedicated to serving others. 
 
With about 80 members, the Elmbrook Rotary Club is part of Rotary International District 6270, whose geographic area covers southeastern Wisconsin.  There are 54 local clubs in D-6270 as well as numerous Interact Clubs and Rotaract Clubs.
 
Over the past three years, Rotarians in this district have contributed or raised more than $1.3 million for projects. These ranged from local needs to international activities in Guatemala, Haiti, India, and Ecuador.

In addition, some $35,000 was designated for CoViD-19 relief in Wisconsin communities and around the world.
 
D-6270 Rotarians also contributed $70,000 toward eliminating the few remaining pockets of polio in South Asia. This was matched by the Rotary International Foundation's Polio Plus Fund and the Bill and Melina Gates Foundation for a total of $420,000.
 
Does Rotary make a difference? You be the judge.
We're Back!
"You'll be back!" We've been saying that for many months now, but now we can say for certain, "We're  Back!" In July it's finally coming true for the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC)!
 
In-person meetings resumed on Friday, July 9.  It was a terrific start to post-COVID meetings with a great program speaker (Annemarie Sawkins, "A Creative Place—The History of Wisconsin Art") and a visit from the RI D-6270 Global Grant Scholarship winner (Alaina Eckert, "Environment" Area of Focus) and her parents. Attendance included 58 in person and 4-5 via Zoom online.
 
Don't miss the opportunity! Each week a full breakfast will be available at the Western Racquet Club in Elm Grove. The buffet line will begin at approximately 06:45 a.m., and the meeting will begin shortly after the top of the hour.
 
Meetings  will also be available via Zoom. ERC is investigating technology that will provide optimum video and audio performance for those attending via Zoom. The desire is to have the majority of members attending in person, although Zoom will be available for those who require it and for remote program speakers when appropriate. The Board will evaluate the success of this arrangement in January 2022.
ERC in Brookfield Parade
The 4th of July Parade returned to Brookfield on July 3, and members of Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) were present!
 
ERC tradition has been to participate in both the annual Elm Grove Memorial Day Parade and the annual Brookfield 4th of July Parade. Unfortunately, COVID-19 spoiled both events in 2020 and the Elm Grove Memorial Day Parade in 2021. However, the Brookfield Independence Day celebration was back in full swing this year!
 
 
 
ERC participants who walked the parade route, and handed out lots of candy, were:  Thom Arndt (2021-2022 ERC President), Kevin (convertible driver) and Sue Roche, Christine Spresser & Linda Edelstein (banner bearers), Bill Petterson, and Tom Hochuli.
 
Thanks to our six ERC members and one family member who well represented our club!
2021 Changing of the Guard
Nearly 100 Elmbrook Rotary members and guests gathered on Wednesday, June 30, for a perfect evening at the Mitchell Park pavilion in Brookfield. The event was the 2021 "Changing of the Guard." Spirits were bright (in a post-COVID outdoor venue), hugs were plentiful, and both food and drink were greatly enjoyed.
 
The meal was catered by Bunzel's, and the after-dinner program featured brief presentations for various purposes. These included remarks by outgoing President Tom Hochuli, updates on the "Million Dollar Journey" by Tom Curl and the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation by Michael Schmeling, announcement of an abundance of Paul Harris Fellow recognitions (see separate article), a report on "Spikes for Tykes" results by Mike Hogan, and distribution of perfect attendance awards by Harry Farchmin.
 
The culmination of the evening was the installation of the 2021-2022 officers. Those officers are:  Dr. Thom Arndt, President; Harry Farchmin, Vice-President; Christine Spresser, Secretary; Dr. Thomas Steinbach, Sergeant-at-Arms; Mark Zalewski, Treasurer; and Gordy Miller, ER Foundation Treasurer. Jeanne Allen, Bonnie Bertram, & Paul Langer also became Directors of both the club and the foundation.
 
 
Incoming President, Dr. Thom Arndt, paid tribute to the outgoing officers and directors and encouraged everyone present to "Serve to Change Lives," the Rotary International Theme for 2021-2022.
ERC Abounds in Paul Harris Fellow Recognitions
At its Changing of the Guard ceremony held on June 30, Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) announced forty-three Paul Harris Fellow recognitions.  These included six first-time Paul Harris fellows, six presented as gifts from a Rotarian to a spouse or child, and thirty-one additional recognitions of Rotarians who were already Paul Harris Fellows.

The remarkable number of Paul Harris Fellow recognitions was partially the result of the fact the COVID-19 pandemic had prevented recognitions that were earned during the prior fifteen months. However, the principal reason for the extraordinarily large number was a new, limited-time Paul Harris matching program instituted by ERC earlier in 2021. Under the club’s matching program, the club matched each donation of $500 to The Rotary Foundation (TRF) with a transfer of 500 Foundation recognition points. The TRF points are provided by the club itself and by members who have accumulated a large number of recognition points.

Announcement of the matching program generated a Paul Harris “buzz” among club members and prompted many of them to make contributions they might not otherwise have made. The matching program, which runs through the end of the current calendar year, has already generated more than $9,200 of donations to The Rotary Foundation. In addition, the presentation of so many recognitions at the Changing of the Guard event has prompted several members to indicate that they will make Paul Harris donations before the end of the calendar year.  The net result of the matching program has been a substantial increase in contributions to The Rotary Foundation and more engagement by the members of Elmbrook Rotary Club.
RI District 6270 Global Grant Scholarship Recipient
The April 2021 edition of the Elm Grove News - Independent carries a major article on Rotary International (RI) District 6270's announcement of the selection of Alaina Eckert, Sussex, WI, as its Global Grant Scholarship applicant for 2021-2022. Ms. Eckert was referred to the D-6270 selection committee by Elmbrook Rotary Club leadership. Click here or on the image below to access the article.
 
 
Ms. Eckert is a graduate of Sussex Hamilton H.S. and of The University of Wisconsin—Madison. She has already begun a dual degree, Master of Science/Master of International Nature Conservation, in a cooperative program of the Georg-August Universität in Göttingen, Germany, and Lincoln University in Lincoln, New Zealand. Since her Area of Focus is "Environment," the Global Grant will be one of the first in this newest emphasis of Rotary International, which takes effect on July 1, 2021.
 
The practical approach of Ms. Eckert's study program is to preserve the integrity of nature, in combination with the assessment of risk management and conservation strategy, and offers an invaluable experience in the education of international conservation. The four-semester program offers new perspectives to maintaining biodiversity and ecosystems that allow local communities to be resilient to future ecological changes, maintain economic stability and growth, use adaptive conservation management strategies for both the betterment of the community and the ecosystem, and preserve critical ecological systems. Thus, Ms. Eckert’s program of studies aligns closely with RI’s newest Area of Focus, the "Environment."
 
The amount of the Global Grant Scholarship is U.S. $30,000. RI District 6270 is providing $16,667 of that amount, and The Rotary Foundation is matching it at an 80% level with another $13,333. The Rotary Foundation, RI districts, and Rotary clubs invest in our future leaders and philanthropists by funding scholarships for graduate study through the Global Grant Scholarship program. Information about Rotary’s other scholarship programs can be accessed at:  https://www.rotary.org/en/our-programs/scholarships.
Meet Rotary's New President
The Rotary International President for 2021-2022 is Shekhar Mehta, member (since 1985) of the Rotary Club of Calcutta-Mahanagar, Calcutta, India. He and spouse Rashi look forward to meeting as many Rotarians as possible during this new Rotary year.
 
 
Shekhar has chosen "Serve to Change Lives" as the theme for 2021-2022. He states the following about the theme:  "Imagine the change we, as Rotary members, can make when there are so many more of us! More people to care for others, more people to Serve to Change Lives. Think of the impact we can have through grow more, do more. More members will enable us to embark on bigger and bolder service projects. And each of us can also continue to serve in our own personal ways, responding to needs in our communities."
 
To read what family and colleagues have to say about him, click here
"Rest in Peace," Barry James!
Barry Nelson James, Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) member since 1984, died on Tuesday, May 25. He was 87 years old.
 
A memorial service occurred at the Becker Ritter Funeral Home, Brookfield, WI, on Wednesday, June 2. The full "Tribute" (obituary) on the funeral home's web site can be read by clicking here.
 
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. He also initiated "Diane's Dictionaries," one of ERC's many projects which was named after his first wife. Information about this charitable effort can be read by clicking here. He was also the Primary Contact (driving agent) for ERC's Global Grant initiative for an e-learning project in India during 2014-15.
ERC President Tom Hochuli remembers about him, "Barry was generally the first person to arrive at our meetings each week and during this past pandemic year has been in attendance for the majority of meetings on Zoom." Indeed, he will be missed.
 
The Elmbrook Rotary Club's Board of Directors has acted to rename the ERC annual golf outing to the "Barry James Memorial Golf Outing" and to designate any proceeds from the outing for use by the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation. As the official "Tribute" notes, "It never mattered what his score was as long as he got the round in within 2 ½ hours."
 
 
Requiescat in pace!
 
If desired, memorials can be given (by family request) either to "Elmbrook Rotary Club" or to "Living Hope Presbyterian Church."
2021 ERC Scholarships Awarded
ERC President Tom Hochuli presented scholarships to the following students from Brookfield East (on May 19) and Brookfield Central (May 25):
 
 
Brookfield East:
 
Christian Stiyer—4-year scholarship to attend Ohio University and pursue degrees in Wildlife Biology and Film Production.
 
Brookfield Central:
 
Hannah Heun—4-year scholarship to pursue a nursing degree at Saint Louis University.
 
Seth Olski—2-year scholarship to attend UW Milwaukee in pursuit of an Associate Degree in Kinesiology and Exercise Science (or Pre-Physical Therapy).
 
   
 
Congratulations and best wishes
to these aspiring post-secondary scholars!
 
 
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.
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.
ERC on Twitter
Did you know that Elmbrook Rotary Club has a Twitter account? It's true! Become a "Follower" (@ElmbrookRotary).
 
ClubRunner Mobile App

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).
What Is Elmbrook Rotary Club?
What is Elmbrook Rotary Club? What do we do? Who are we?
 
 
 
Watch our promotion video to learn about us. If accessing via our weekly eBulletin, click here to watch.
Why Join Rotary?

20 Reasons to Join Rotary


 
 
 
  1. Friendship: In an increasingly complex world, Rotary provides one of the most basic human needs: the need for friendship and fellowship. It is one of two reasons why Rotary began in 1905.

  2. Business Development: The second original reason for Rotary's beginning is business development. Everyone needs to network. Rotary consists of a cross section of every business community. Its members come from all walks of life. Rotarians help each other and collectively help others.

  3. Personal Growth and Development: Membership in Rotary continues one's growth and education in human relations and personal development.

  4. Leadership Development: Rotary is an organization of leaders and successful people. Serving in Rotary positions is like a college education. Leadership: - learning how to motivate, influence and lead leaders.

  5. Citizenship in the Community: Membership in a Rotary club makes one a better community citizen. The average Rotary club consists of the most active citizens of any community.
     6.  Continuing Education: Each week at Rotary there is a program designed to keep one informed about what is going on in the community, nation, and world. Each meeting provides an opportunity to listen to different speakers and a variety of timely topics.
 
     7.  Fun: Rotary is fun, a lot of fun. Each meeting is fun. The club projects are fun. Social activities are fun. Serving others is fun.
 
     8.  Public Speaking Skills: Many individuals who joined Rotary were afraid to speak in public. Rotary develops confidence and skill in public communication and the opportunity to practice and perfect these skills.
 
     9.  Citizenship in the World: Every Rotarian wears a pin that says "Rotary International." There are few places on the globe that do not have a Rotary club. Every Rotarian is welcome - even encouraged - to attend any of the 33,000 clubs in over 200 nations and geographical regions. This means instant friends in both one's own community and in the world community.
 
   10. Assistance when Traveling: Because there are Rotary clubs everywhere, many a Rotarian in need of a doctor, lawyer, hotel, dentist, advice, etc., while traveling has found assistance through Rotary.
 
   11. Entertainment: Every Rotary club and district has parties and activities that provide diversion in one's business life. Rotary holds conferences, conventions, assemblies, and institutes that provide entertainment in addition to Rotary information, education, and service.
 
   12. The Development of Social Skills: Every week and at various events and functions, Rotary develops one's personality, social skills and people skills. Rotary is for people who like people.
 
   13. Family Programs: Rotary provides one of the world's largest youth exchange programs; high school and college clubs for future Rotarians; opportunities for spouse involvement; and a host of activities designed to help family members in growth and the development of family values.
 
   14. Vocational Skills: Every Rotarian is expected to take part in the growth and development of his or her own profession or vocation; to serve on committees and to teach youth about one's job or vocation. Rotary helps to make one a better doctor, lawyer, teacher, etc.
 
   15. The Development of Ethics: Rotarians practice the 4-Way Test that governs one's ethical standards. Rotarians are expected to be ethical in business and person relationships.
 
   16. Cultural Awareness: Around the world, practically every religion, country, culture, race, creed, political persuasion, language, color, and ethnic identity is found in Rotary. It is a cross section of the world's most prominent citizens from every background. Rotarians become aware of their cultures and learn to love and work with people everywhere. They become better citizens of their countries in the process.
 
   17. Prestige: Rotary members are prominent people: leaders of business, the professions, art, government, sports, military, religion, and all disciplines. Rotary is the oldest and most prestigious service club in the world. Its ranks include executives, managers, professionals - people who make decisions and influence policy.
 
   18. Nice People: Rotarians above all are nice people - the nicest people on the face of the earth. They are important people who follow the policy of "it is nice to be important but it is more important to be nice."
 
   19. The Absence of an” Official Creed": Rotary has no secret handshake, no secret policy, no official creed, no secret meetings or rituals. It is an open society of men and women who simply believe in helping others.
 
   20. The Opportunity to Serve: Rotary is a service club. Its product is serving. Rotarians provide community service to both local and international communities. This is perhaps the best reason for becoming a Rotarian: the chance to do something for somebody else and to sense the self-fulfillment that comes in the process and return of that satisfaction to one's own life. It is richly rewarding.
[List "borrowed" from the Rotary Club of Champaign, IL (https://www.champaignrotary.org/index.php?s=20reasons).]
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At ELMBROOK ROTARY - We Rise & Shine!
 
When we say "WE RISE & SHINE” to others, it means:
  • WE RISE to meet early every Friday.
  • WE RISE to the occasion by helping those in need.
  • WE RISE to make a difference in our community and the world.
     
  • WE SHINE by living the Rotary 4-way Test.
  • WE SHINE by staying positive and encouraging others.
  • WE SHINE by lighting the way for service above self in Brookfield, Elm Grove, and beyond.
The tagline appears on our Coffee Mugs, on our Web site, on club emails, and on other communications going out. Try using the tagline the next time you’re talking to someone about Elmbrook Rotary or Rotary in general. In fact, consider purchasing an Elmbrook Rotary Coffee Mug for $7.
What Is Rotary?
How do others perceive Rotary and what we do?
 
Enjoy this humorous video about what Rotary really is. Click me to view!
 
Filmed in 2017 in the Fargo-Moorhead area (North Dakota Minnesota border region), where there are five Rotary Clubs. Video was supported by Rotary District 5580.