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Club Information
Welcome to our Club!
Elmbrook (Brookfield)
We Rise & Shine
Fridays at 7:00 AM
St. Camillus - East Residence Tower
10100 W. Bluemound Road
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
United States of America
Attendance also possible via Zoom.
District Site Icon
District Site
Venue Map
Venue Map
 
 
Upcoming Events
Rotary Straightshooters - See PACBSA Outing May 19
May 18, 2023
 
PAC-BSA - 2023 Sporting Clays Classic
Waukesha Gun Club
May 19, 2023
11:15 AM – 6:00 PM
 
May Social: Memorial Day Parade Watch Party
John & Jeanne Allen's
May 29, 2023
 
ERC & Foundation BoD meeting
Zoom
May 30, 2023
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
 
Ronald McDonald House Dinner Prep
Ronald McDonald House Charities Eastern Wisconsin
Jun 08, 2023
3:00 PM – 6:30 PM
 
Shooting Fellowship Clays Outing - Milford Hills
Milford Hills Hunt Club
Jun 15, 2023
4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
 
View entire list
Speakers
Apr 28, 2023 7:00 AM
ERC 2023 Major Fundraiser ("SPIKES") club-wide workshop
May 05, 2023 7:00 AM
Get to know St. Camillus - ERC's new meeting venue
May 12, 2023 7:00 AM
Daylighting Underwood Creek in Elm Grove, Wisconsin
May 19, 2023 7:00 AM
Rotary New Member Classification Talks
Jun 02, 2023 7:00 AM
Earthquake response and Turkish Child Amputee program supported by Elmbrook Rotary
View entire list
 
 
Spikes for Tykes started in 1988 and  initially benefited Rotary International's End Polio campaign. Since then, the proceeds have been directed to the Child Abuse Prevention Fund, the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts, and numerous other charitable causes. Since its inception, SPIKES has raised over $750,000!
 
Our sponsors include large and small businesses, organizations, and individuals who field one or more volleyball teams at the entry rate of $150 per team. Sponsors may donate $150.00 without organizing a team, BUT WE ENCOURAGE ALL SPONSORS TO HAVE PLAYING TEAMS. Each playing team receives six (6) long-sleeve commemorative T-shirts.
 
HOW DO WE MAKE OUR MONEY? Spike for Tykes funds come from sponsorships, plus concessions and a raffle on the event day. In addition to the team sponsorships, major sponsorships—ranging from Bronze Sponsor to Presenting Sponsor—are encouraged.
Saturday June 3, 2023
9am - 3pm
Mitchell Park Pavillion 
Contact Mike Hogan
mjhogan53213@gmail 
 
Click on the document titles below to access major information for this year’s fundraiser:
 
Sponsorship Opportunity Form
Sponsorship Appeal Letter
2021-2022 ERF Charitable Contributions
Teams & Team Members
Rotary RSS Feed

The work by the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, of which Rotary is a core partner, is proving crucial in the battle against malaria.

 

Preserving Paul Harris mementos from trip to Central, South AmericaRotary members past and present hold Paul Harris in high regard for his role as the founder of Rotary and his vision for fostering friendship and international

 

The speakers at the 2023 Rotary Convention in Melbourne are transforming health care, advancing the cause of peace, and working to protect our environment.

 

Leveraging expertise: Peace CorpsThe collaborations between Rotary members and Peace Corps Volunteers that occur around the world make the partnership between the organizations vibrant and dynamic.The Peace Corps, an independent U.S.

 

After historic wildfires, an economic recovery in Turkey aims to preserve a traditional culture.

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

The work by the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, of which Rotary is a core partner, is proving crucial in the battle against malaria.

 

Preserving Paul Harris mementos from trip to Central, South AmericaRotary members past and present hold Paul Harris in high regard for his role as the founder of Rotary and his vision for fostering friendship and international

 

The speakers at the 2023 Rotary Convention in Melbourne are transforming health care, advancing the cause of peace, and working to protect our environment.

 
Executives & Directors
President
 
President Elect
 
Secretary
 
Treasurer
 
President Elect Nominee
 
Executive Secretary / Director
 
Community Service Chair
 
International Service Chair
 
Sergeant-at-Arms
 
Vocational Service Chair
 
Director (Past President)
 
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:
     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.
Our Venue:
The Elmbrook Rotary Club meets at: 
St. Camillus – East Residence Tower -
10100 W. Bluemound Road Wauwatosa, WI 53226
 
See you at 7a!
Stories
Friends for Health in Haiti 
On April 21, 2023, the Elmbrook Rotary Club was reunited with Dr. Catherine Wolf of Friends for Health in Haiti.  The Elmbrook Rotary has partnered with Health for Haiti for several years, providing funds that continue to grow after the donation is spent. Thank you Phyllis Blodgett for the introduction to this organization. In our 2022 campaign, Elmbrook Rotary donated funds for beans, which once grown,
 
 
could be planted, with the harvest yielding beans to plant, eat, and sell. The cycle continues. 
 
Health for Haiti has built a hospital for Haitians on the West side of the island, yet Dr. Wolf talked about physical health not being the only health program. Heath for Haiti attempts to improve water and organized sanitation systems. In addition, in a project considered completed, they built dozens and dozens of latrines to ward off illness. Livelihood training helps to improve employment, and ministries speak to spiritual health. 
 
Dr. Wolf also chronicled the multiday trips people make to the hospital to receive diabetes care and heart help. Sometimes people will travel 8+ hours, sleep outside the hospital, and wake up to be seen before heading home. They are provided the best available care in that part of the country, and it's in part because of people in other areas of the world supporting the effort. 
 
(common Haitian dwelling)
 
If you are interested in learning more or making a personal donation, please visit their website: https://www.friendsforhealthinhaiti.org/ 
 
If you think learning about great causes and getting involved with the ones that interest you sounds fun, please join us for a Rotary event! 
Read more...
Places You Give Money too Want to Sponsor Spikes!
Our 2023 Spikes Sponsorship sign up is open!
 
Please let your employer, your friends who own businesses, and the businesses you frequent know that Rotary is NOW ACCEPTING SPONSORS! Various levels of sponsorship are available, together with benefits for each level. You are someone's favorite client, and they would love to sponsor your Rotary Club! 
 
Spikes is a great team-building, family-fun event that allows small businesses, neighborhoods, or any club to hang out in beautiful Mitchell Park.
 
There will be food and beverages served, live music, and of course the dog park and kids' park. With a bounce house, balloon animals, martial arts and face painting, the 2023 Spikes provides lots of reasons for any group to sponsor a team and join in the fun! 
 
Please encourage the businesses in your life to bring a team and create some community memories. 
 
Read more...
Rocket Fuel for a great SPIKES!
SPIKES! is the Embrook Rotary Club's #1 fundraiser.
 
More than 1/2 of the funds we donate in a year will come from this single day event. (June 3 at Mitchell Park)
 
This is the event that raises money for ventilators for Andean Health and Development and to provide clean water in Guatemala. This is the way we support dozens and dozens of students at Well Point, and how we encourage hundreds locally through our relationships with Women's Center, Addiction treatment organizations, and Re-Entry programs. 
 
Just as the diagram depicts, a great SPIKES! starts with preparing to launch. If we aren't preparing and focusing energy now, in 8 weeks our SPIKES! will come out weak. 
 
If we begin the chatter & invites with friends and family now, we'll have an opportunity to introduce those folks to the groups we serve, and share how great Rotary is. If we let people know there will be food and beer, they might bring other friends to the event. If we let them know about kids activities, they might bring kids or grandkids, which usually means even more activity. 
 
We're also needing to attract corporate sponsors. Corporate sponsors insulate our efforts against poor weather. With lots of sponsors, the event truly becomes a celebration. With few sponsors, we're praying for good weather so we can raise funds from the general public for the organizations we care about. 
 
Please: Talk to your employer, your contacts at past employers, and the friends who own business and see if they'd be interested in supporting our give back work.
 
Please: Talk to your neighbors, people who you worship with, and your friends. Ask them to commit to grabbing a doughnut with you in the morning, or a drink in the afternoon. Ask them to bring their dog, or let their friends with kids know this is a "Classic Picnic" event everyone is welcome at. 
 
We have plenty of time to build a great event on June 3rd... if we all put in some effort the next 2 weeks.
 
If we all decide to hope another Rotarian is doing the inviting, the planning, the sponsor calls... we will have a nice event that solicits donations mainly from our club members.
 
There's no right or wrong way to get to our donation goals, but a successful fundraiser should also build goodwill, educate about the good these groups do, and give us a great opportunity to recruit new members.
 
Please reach out to the  SPIKES! Committee if you are interested in helping right now to make the 2023 SPIKES! the most memorable event in years! 
 
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April Birthdays & Anniversaries
 
 
Please join the Elmbrook Rotary Club in celebrating our esteemed member Birthdays and Anniversaries in April.
 
 
"Winter’s done, and April’s in the skies. Earth, look up with laughter in your eyes!" – Charles G.D. Roberts.
 
Happy Birthday! Wishing a wonderful year of good health, happiness, and success to our members:
  • Bonnie Bertram
  • Harry Farchmin
  • Sherry Fontaine
ERC also recognizes the following membership anniversaries:
  • John Schesta, 26 years
  • Paul Langer, 36 years
 
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Workplace Violence Prevention

-We Train You -You Train Your Staff-

“Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) training provides the de-escalation techniques and behavior management strategies you need to create a culture of safety.”Matthew Wolak of CPI, the largest global workforce violence prevention training company with over 15 million trained, presented a program highlighting their programs, goals, statistics, and a few techniques on de-escalation.

Through all-level organization training, employees from different responsibilities within an organization learn to speak the same critical language when faced with a potentially violent situation, preventing an increase in the risk level. Through situational awareness and using non-verbal and verbal techniques employees can de-escalate a situation, reducing the likelihood and severity of a workplace violence incident resulting in reduced injuries. Through this training, staff members learn the “power of the voice”, how to recognize anxiety when faced with a potentially escalating situation, resulting in a higher level of Staff confidence.

Programs Offered:

Nonviolent Crisis Intervention (NCI) provides the skills to safely recognize and respond to everyday crisis situations. NCI training complies with all current legislation and is evidence-based and fully accredited. This program is recommended for First responders, security personnel, Healthcare, Education and Human service professionals.

The Nonviolent Crisis Intervention with Advanced Physical Skills equips staff with the decision-making skills needed to confidently assess and address risk. It combines verbal intervention strategies and restrictive interventions with advanced physical skills for high-risk scenarios such as those that require floor intervention. This program includes the skills for the NCI recommended audience plus corrections/juvenile facility staff, security teams and, mental health professionals.

The combined programs provide:

· Prevention and verbal de-escalation skills.

· Disengagement safety techniques.

· Trauma-informed training.

· Risk assessment framework.

· Physical intervention techniques.

· Disengagement safety techniques.

· Physical intervention techniques.

· Skills for high-risk scenarios.

If you would like more information regarding workplace violence prevention, visit the CPI website at www.insittue.crisisprevention.com.

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Pilots Flying to Serve the Needs of Humanity

“The International Fellowship of Flying Rotarians was formed in 1965, focusing on fellowship and service by providing volunteer pilots to help with medical related transports.”

Rotarian Mark Hanson updated the Elmbrook Rotary on the newly formed partnership between the International Fellowship of Flying Rotarians and Air Care Alliance (ACA). In partnership they are providing private volunteer pilots in their own aircraft for medical and emergency missions, at no cost.

The ACA was founded in 1990 as a small group of volunteer pilot organizations wishing to work together in mutual support. “For more than three decades, we’ve made great strides for the world of charitable aviation.” The work of ACA has protected public benefit flying, promoted the work of volunteer pilots, and has increased access to free air transportation for patients and others in need.

Free Flights for those in need. This is how it works!

· A family in need to travel to a facility contacts the ACA www.aircarealliance.org

· Available flights are reviewed by the family.

· A flight is requested via the ACA, who refers the request to the best fit Public Benefit Flight Organization/s.

· The Best Fit Flight Organization/s validates the eligibility of the request.

· The request is approved, the pilot is notified, and the flight is scheduled.

Rotarians Spread the word!

Rotary Volunteer Outreach help is needed. Let friends, relatives, special service medical facilities, rural medical facilities, social workers, and veteran support groups know of this incredible service provided by this joint effort of volunteers.

Thank you Mark for sharing this important information and your service.

Mark Hanson has of donated or flown 400+ mission hours, serving 700 passengers and has covered 200,000+ miles since 2012.

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Foundation Grants Span Local to International Organizations
Charitable grants distributed by the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation through FYE 6/30/22 are now categorized by service areas and alphabetized by organizations.
See the Contributions flyer to view Elmbrook Rotary's priority areas, from local to international causes.Click here to download Grant Contributions listing
 
Please share this information with anyone who may be interested in sponsoring a Spikes team, joining the club, or making a donation. 
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Analyze, Recommend, Implement and Review

“Avoidance of pain and attainment of pleasure” can be realized by saving for today and planning for tomorrow with a protection strategy encompassing product solutions, wealth management and financial planning.

On March 31st, Michael Beinlich from the Wauwatosa Westpoint Financial Group Branch visited the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC).
Michael shared that Westpoint Financial believes in a culture of genuinely caring about people by working together in a welcoming and inspiring, inclusive valued way.

The time and resources invested are just a couple of reasons Westpoint earned trust from so many in this area”. Community involvement with charitable organizations, meaningful civic events, and other efforts are deeply important to the business.

Our goal is to bring “financial wisdom and clarity in a world of infinite information, and to be recognized as the financial services firm that continuously evolves to reflect the communities we serve” says Beinlich.

Beinlich  states, "Our goal is to help you achieve your goals. To that end, we use a four-step process to help you solve your financial problems."

· Analyze – Before we recommend any product or service, we ask questions and get a clear understanding of your circumstances and financial objectives. We then analyze your insurance and investment portfolios to identify any gaps that may exist.

· Recommend - We will provide you with options to fill in the gaps or to help you reach your short, middle, and long-term objectives more efficiently.

· Implement – If you agree with our recommendations, we will work with you to implement them and help you secure the required products and services.

· Review – Because your financial situation is bound to change, we will work with you over time through periodic reviews to help you monitor your strategy and its ability to continue to meet your goals.

Mike, thank you for sharing your company’s mission, vision, and strategies. The question-and-answer session was informative and enlightening.

If you are interested in learning more about this company, visit www.westpointfinancialgroup.com

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Ending the Silence on Mental Health Conditions

Inspiring the Hope of Recovery

Mary Madden, Executive Director of NAMI, National Alliance on Mental Illness, presented an overview of how NAMI serves individuals and families affected by mental health conditions.  At no cost, NAMI provides services to Milwaukee, Waukesha, and Jefferson County residents. Mary was accompanied by Angela Reilly Director of Development and Marketing.

Nami “Inspires the hope of recovery, and deepens the understanding of mental health conditions for individuals, families, and communities” With a vision that “Individuals and families affected by mental health conditions thrive in communities that encourage recovery and where stigma does not exist”.

What makes NAMI unique is that everything comes from a “lived experience perspective”. The staff is comprised of individuals who have family members or are living with their own mental conditions.

 

The following classes are offered to individuals and families:

· NAMI Basics – 6-week group education for parents and family caregivers for children and teens who are experiencing symptoms of a mental illness or who have already been diagnosed.

· Family to Family – 8-session education program for families, significant others, and friends of people living with mental illness.

· NAMI Peer-to-Peer – 8-session program for adults with mental illness who are looking to better understanding their condition and get help in their journey toward recovery.

· NAMI Family and Friends – seminar that informs people who have loved ones with a mental health condition how to best support them.

· Compassion Tool Kit – is a class for parents and caregivers feeling stressed out with strategies on how to take care of themselves.

· Ending Silence – an outreach program presented to high school freshmen and sophomores addressing how they can help themselves and others when confronted with mental health issues as individuals, friends, and family members.

· In Our Own Voice – a presentation where two individuals talk about their own stories of recovery.

· Crisis Intervention Team Training – a program that teaches police officers how to help someone in a psychiatric crisis with the goal of keeping the officer, community and individual safe.

Unfortunately, “Stigma, Shame and Fear of mental health conditions are very much alive today”. Currently there is a myriad of treatments and strategies available, ranging from therapy and medications to meditation, acupuncture, and Reiki. Education and programs like those offered by NAMI are key to understanding and addressing mental healthcare needs.

If you would like to learn more about NAMI and how you can support this vital organization, visit www.namisoutheastwi.org.

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Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity - Bringing People Together to Build Homes, Communities, and Hope

Caroline Martini is the Volunteer Coordinator for the Milwaukee Habitat construction sites. Since 1984, Habitat's small staff of 8, volunteers and new homeowners have built over 600 homes.  These homes create significant improvements for the immediate area. 

Milwaukee Habitat revitalizes entire neighborhoods, block by block, with the goal of decreasing crime, increasing community engagement, and creating a vibrant sustainable neighborhood “where everyone has a decent place to live”.

Offering a hand up versus a handout, Habitat homeowners help build their own homes and pay an affordable $600-$900 per month mortgage, that fosters housing longevity. 

Did you know that:

  • Habitat homes have a 35% increase in graduation rates versus the average MPS student.
  • Nearly 60% of Milwaukee renters are currently living in unaffordable housing paying up to 70% of their income just to cover the rent, leaving little left over for education, savings, or even basic needs.
  • Milwaukee Habitat combats the city’s affordable housing crisis by providing families with an affordable path to safe and stable housing.
  • Studies show: Safe, affordable housing leads to improved health, education, and financial stability.
  • Homes are not a gift. Perspective homeowners are required to meet the criteria of being a first-time homeowner, spending more than 50% of their income on rent. Homeowners must be able to afford the mortgage and are willing to put in 300 hours of "sweat equity" on their home.
  • Crime rate in Habitat neighborhoods have a 46% reduction and a 25% increase in home value.
  • Homeowners are provided with classes on finances, budgeting, and home maintenance.
  • Volunteers provide 60,000 hours building homes and volunteering at the three Restore facilities.
 
 
Volunteer and Support Opportunities: 
 
  • The plan for 2023 is to build 30 homes. In 2022 the Elmbrook Rotary was involved in three builds. The build sites have a construction team member who will provide tools, construction materials, safety items and instruction for the day’s tasks. The day starts at 8:00am and ends at 3:00pm. Wear clothes and shoes that can get dirty and bring your own lunch and folding chair
  • Jackson Bubolz has been an active leader along with other Rotarians in volunteering. Keep an ear out for more projects in Fall when ladders aren't required
  • Another way to support Habitat is to donate items to one of three Restore sites, or volunteer Tuesday thru Sat. 10am to 2pm or 2pm to 6pm. 100% of the $3.5 million proceeds go directly to the construction of the homes
  • Habitat has a donation program consisting of one-time employer match or a legacy gift giving

If you are interested in learning more about this great organization, visit www.milwaukeehabitat.org to see the many opportunities to volunteer, donate or give support.

Thank you, Elmbrook Rotary, for your years of support in giving freely of your time and labor.

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Fighting Poverty in Guatemala – One Vision Team at a Time

Since 2011 the Embrook Rotary Club has sent 11 Vision Teams to Guatemala. They have partnered with Common Hope, whose mission is “Promoting hope and opportunity in Guatemala. Partnering with children, families, and communities who want to participate in a process of development to improve their lives through education, healthcare, and housing”.

Did you know that:

· More than 50% of Guatemalans live in poverty.

· More than 25% of Guatemalans live on less than $2/day.

· There are explosive rates of poverty, alcoholism, violence, mistrust, and unemployment.

There is a great educational need:

· On average adults have completed 3.5 years of education.

· 30% of the children fail first grade at least once.

· 7th grade school attendance drops as children go to work to supplement their family income.

· 18.6% of students graduate from high school.

The need for Housing is high:

· 67% of families live in homes without roofs and sufficient living space.

· Homes with cornstalk walls and dirt floors are unsafe and unsanitary.

· Families often live without basic electricity.

This year, the 9 person Elmbrook Rotary Vision Team assisted in preparing a school for the return of students by cleaning and organizing the school. The Team also constructed a house in three days! They started with building prefab panels, delivered them to the site, and created a home for a family in need. A great accomplishment by the Vision Team and a housing upgrade for the family.

 

 

Vision Team, thank you for your selfless contribution of time and labor in assisting the Common Hope organization in their mission of “helping poor people out of poverty”.

If you are wondering, how you can be a contributing member to the Elmbrook Rotary and Common Hope’s great Guatemalan mission? You can:

· Be a member of the Annual Vision Team that builds homes, works with students, and assists in healthcare.

· Sponsor a student – currently Elmbrook Rotary sponsors 2 students and 16 are sponsored by individuals associated with the Rotary.

To learn more about Common Hope, visit www.commonhope.org.

To view the great presentation created by Harry Farchmin, use this link: https://1drv.ms/u/s!As3J6helL0FqwG0wqvGavpXJtJ8V?e=PfOqfE

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March Birthdays & Anniversaries
 
Please join the Elmbrook Rotary Club in celebrating our esteemed member Birthdays and Anniversaries in March.
 
“March, when days are getting long, Let thy growing hours be strong to set right some wintry wrong.” ― Caroline May
 
Happy Birthday! Wishing a wonderful year of good health, happiness and success to our members:
  • Dave Engle
  • Kevin Roche
  • Charley Shirley
ERC also recognizes the following membership anniversaries:
  • Thomas Steinbach, 5 year
  • Tom Hochuli, 8 years
  • Linda Edelstein, 10 years
  • Don Down, 19 years
  • Joe Pottebaum, 23 years
  • Tony Consiglio, 26 years
  • Erik Moeser, 43 years
 
Read more...
Spikes Reboot
As the snow begins to thaw, members of Elmbrook Rotary Club look forward to an event that is reliable as day-light savings time... Spikes for Tikes!
 
As we've discussed in meetings, this year the club is re-doubling our efforts to bring in more sponsorships, more volleyball teams, and more members of our community attending the fun. Please mark 6/3/23 as a full day of fun and service at Mitchell Park in Brookfield.
 
Things we can start doing right now to ensure a great event:
 
 
- Sign up for at least one committee and begin on their first action item immediately 
- Let your friends, family. and neighbors know about this great event that will have competitive volleyball, food and drinks, and family entertainment
- Ask your boss if they would sponsor a team
- Ask a local business owner if they'd donate to our causes
- Let your favorite non- profit know they should plan to attend the day of festivities 
 
There will be much more to come. Remembering that Spikes is Elmbrook Rotary's one major fundraiser each year, we're hoping to see a ton of participation from our community so we both raise more funds for our great causes, and also help some great people realize they've been Rotarians this whole time and didn't even know it! 
 
Much more to come...
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Compassionate Service with a Campaign for Community Connection

On March 3, 2023 Ann Leinfelder Grove, President, and CEO of Wellpoint Care Network visited the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC). Leinfelder Grove reviewed the history, growth, and goals of Wellpoint Care Network, which serves 5,000 individuals daily in southeastern Wisconsin. Through the practice of Trauma Informed Care, the Wellpoint staff and volunteers help children and families thrive by restoring connections that promote equity, learning, healing, and wellness.

The vision is to transform the “historic 18-acre campus on Milwaukee’s northwest side into a vibrant neighborhood anchor where families, trauma-informed social services, mental health resources have a place to connect, collaborate, and care for themselves and one another”.

Ann thanked Jack Nelson and the Elmbrook Rotarians for their years of volunteer support, compassion and kindness providing a positive impact on those served, and she looks forward to many more years of partnering and working together.

The Goals of the Campaign are to:

· Prevent childhood and family adversity

· Heal individual, family and community trauma

· Support strong families and thriving communities

With the Vision to:

· Expand, renovate, and share our campus as an innovative model for community healing and wellness with community gardens, walking paths and a peace garden providing “a quiet natural space for contemplation and healing open to neighbors, staff, and our mental health clients and therapists”.

· Embed principals of Trauma Informed Care into the very design of our buildings and grounds with a mental health clinic, modern workspaces for therapists, social workers, and other team members to work in partnership and coordinate care. A community social hall will include multiple indoor and outdoor gathering spaces open to the public for “connection, collaboration, and creation”.

· Engage local families, center their voices, and leverage their wisdom and resilience for future growth.

Thank you Ann for your 33 years of service to this long standing, care providing institution, that is vital in offering Mental Health Services, Child, and Family Wellbeing along with Training and Consultation to Milwaukee’s children and families.

If you would like more information regarding Wellpoint and its mission, or how you can volunteer and be of support, visit www.wellpoint.org.

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Club Happenings 
We've had a busy few weeks at the Elmbrook Rotary Club, initiating a new member and celebrating 3 Red Badge recipients. 
 
The Red Badge is recognition of new members completing their training to be a strong Rotarian. This involves joining a board meeting, being involved in a service project, and taking part in a Fireside chat, etc. etc. 
 
Ian Smith, Don Black, and Rick Chabot have all completed their requirements, and will hopefully soon find a committee that speaks to them. Mark Thurner & John Allen are seen aiding in the graduation. 
 
The Elmbrook Rotary also inducted John Schindler, referred by Jackson Bubolz, into our club. John has been a land surveyor, a flight EMT, and currently focuses on residential realty. He is married to Jean, and currently holds office on the board of trustees in Elm Grove.
 
Our club also took time to discuss our areas for growth as we continue to grow membership and put more energy into Spikes. Those conversations are kept to our breakfast meetings, but the exciting part is we're all working together to consistently have a positive impact on our community and our world. 
 
Welcome to our new member, and our Red Badge graduates! 
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Eras - Engage. Relate. Advocate. Support.

Eras Development director Heather Uzowulu presented their available programing, including volunteer opportunities. She also shared best practices on preventing senior fraud and scams.

Eras Senior Network is a community-centered nonprofit organization serving Milwaukee and Waukesha Counties. Their mission is to engage and support seniors, adults with disabilities, and family caregivers in leading meaningful lives.

The “free of cost” programs are provided through partnering with government programs, non-profits, educational groups, corporations, and congregations.

Eras relies on their volunteers for program delivery and success. There are many opportunities for volunteering. If you are interested, visit Eras.org/Volunteer and take a brief survey to see which programs best fits you with your availability.

Volunteer driven programs focus on:

· Reducing isolation for seniors

· Maintaining independence through the Faith in Action services

· Mobilizing volunteers to make important contributions to the community's needs

· Transportation to medical appointments, the grocery store and food pantries

· Medical support

· Client assessment

· Friendly phone calls

· Minor home repair, lawn mowing and snow removal

· Friendly visit

· Stop Senior Fraud Program - presented by volunteers to requesting organizations

  • In 2022, Waukesha County seniors lost over 4million dollars to fraud and scams. Currently romance scams represent a large percentage of these financial abuses, targeting our seniors.

The “Stop Senior Fraud Program” addresses a number of scams focusing on seniors, i.e. grandparents, telemarketing, funerals, sweepstakes, online/email, medical/Medicare, investments, power of attorney, and charities scams.

Several videos regarding fraud and scams are posted on the Eras website. A resource contact list for victims or those looking for preventative measures against frauds and scams will be provided on the Elmbrook Rotary Newsletter in the near future.

For more information visit or call: Eras.org/Volunteer

Mil Co. 414 488-6931 ……..Waukesha Co. 262-549-334

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Updates! Guatemala & Common Hope
Our Common Hope team in Guatemala has landed safety and got right to work.
 
Please use this link to see the beginning of their experiences serving in Central America: 
 
Look for Elmbrook section. 
 
If this looks like a good way to spend a week in February, the 2024 team will begin forming shortly after this team returns. 
Classification talks 02.03.2023
One of the Elmbrook Rotary Club's favorite events are "classification talks". This is where members can share about their upbringing, their vocation, their families, hobbies, and aspirations. During classification talks, members get to know each other more intimately, which leads to stronger relationships and a more engaging member experience. 
 
On February 3, 2023, we heard From Vesile Yilmaz, Don Black, & Kemal Yilmaz. Although classification talks are kept between club members, it's safe to say the overwhelming impression of the club is that these 3 newer members will bring a wealth of expertise, passion, and energy to our meetings.
 
If you'd like to get more out of your Rotary experience, befriend a new club member, join a new project, or invite a new friend to our club. 
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February Birthdays & Anniversaries
 
 
Please join the Elmbrook Rotary Club in celebrating our esteemed member Birthdays and Anniversaries in February.
 
 
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” — Martin Luther King, Jr.
 
Happy Birthday! Wishing a wonderful year of good health, happiness, and success to our members:
 
  • Bill Bulloch
  • Julie Couden
  • Tom Curl
  • Chris Salani
  • Karl Schulz
  • Thomas Steinbach
  • Steven Stocker
  • Larry Winkelhake
  • Kemal Yilmaz
 
ERC also recognizes the following membership anniversaries:
 
  • Doug Hafemann, 2 year
  • Jacson Bubolz, 5 years
  • Karl Schulz, 7 years
  • Greg Bonk, 10 years
  • Fred Gettelman, 15 years
  • Mark Thurner, 27 years
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More Than a Place to Stay - Keeping Families Together

This Winter, John Cormana presented to the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) an update on the growth, services and volunteer opportunities at the Ronald McDonald House. A volunteer since 2011, John shared stories of how volunteer services have provided families with comfort during challenging time in their lives. “We are just there to minimize the families worries.” John stated. 

The Ronald McDonald House provides a no cost, clean, & safe place to stay while their child receives treatment. Families receive lodging and meals when a child is in the hospital. This provides parents the ability to focus their full attention on their child. “Hope in healing is provided through strength and support from families, staff, and volunteers. By keeping families together, stories are shared, and memories are made”. Since 1984, over 50,000 families have benefitted from the Ronald McDonald House. 

Over the years the House has expanded through major renovations, from under 30 rooms to 70 and other amenities, i.e. a family room area where families can spend the day while their child is receiving outpatient therapy at Rogers Memorial Hospital in Oconomowoc.

Serving Wisconsin and beyond, this RMHC provides pet, music, and art therapy, along with family garden education and Kids Can Cook programs. A stocked hospitality cart is even wheeled through the halls of the hospital, providing nourishment to the patients and families.

Financial support is provided by the following:

· Pop Tab Program – 400K of recycled tabs per year

· Annual Golf Event – held each year at the Ironwood Golf Course in Sussex

· Annual Gala – Guests enjoy passed hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, and a large silent auction before heading into the main ballroom for a delicious dinner. Guest speakers, including past guest families, share what the House means to them and how others can support the RMHC® mission.

· Coin Boxes at 30 Local McDonald restaurants – 150-200K annually

· Chefs Dinner – provides delectable dishes from around the world by six local chefs.

· Third Party Events – local groups or individuals provide some sort of fundraising event.

Since the pandemic the volunteer staff has diminished from 550 down to 330. Rebuilding the volunteer staff is a current mission.

Available Volunteer Opportunities

· Family Room Volunteers help to create a warm welcoming environment.

· Hospitality Volunteers perform light housekeeping, organizational duties, welcoming guests and assisting with check-outs.

· Kitchen Keeper Volunteers ensure the kitchens are clean, well-organized, and stocked.

· Office Assistance Volunteers answer phones, greet and welcome guests, and office work.

· Van Driver Volunteers transport guests to and from the hospital, grocery stores and other local errands.

If you are interested in supporting the Ronald McDonald House through one or more of their volunteer programs, or just want to learn more about this great place, login to www.rmhc-easternwi.org to view the opportunities and sign-up to serve families in need during a difficult time.

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Openings on the PR team 
2023 is going to be a memorable year for the Elmbrook Rotary Club.
 
We are resuming our annual service trip to Guatemala and we are refreshing Spikes, our largest fundraiser. With all of that, plus all the other nice things we're doing in the community, the PR team needs reinforcements. The PR Team wants to do a great job sharing what the Elmbrook Rotary Club is doing to be part of the solution, and we could use some help telling the stories. 
 
Opportunities are:
- Assembling our weekly newsletter
- Posting on our social media pages
- Maintaining content and accuracy of website
- Writing submissions to the Elm Grove News Independent
- Creating new media relationships to help attract more members 
- Helping Rotarians remember to take pictures and send stories of their service projects 
 
All of these create stronger bonds between us as members, and build trust with the community to gain members, projects, and goodwill. 
 
If you feel you'd enjoy any of these above tasks, please connect with Jackson Bubolz to learn more about the role and decide if you'd like to help. 
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Adopt our Adopt-A-Highway Program 
Our club has big volunteer commitments like building homes in Guatemala, small commitments like collecting produce after the farmer's markets, and everything in between. This opportunity is much closer to the smaller end.
 
The Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) is looking for (2) people willing to each organize (1) Adopt A Highway clean up a year. This project is ideal for the person who wants to contribute their time, but is not able to commit to an ongoing project with lots of meetings and follow up.
 
Paul Langer will continue to oversee our Adopt A Highway effort and run one of the three cleanup dates per year. He can supply anyone interested with a complete checklist of things that need to be done for the half-day cleanup, and provide any coaching needed.
 
We provide a cleanup event 3 times per year, spring, mid-summer, and late fall. Again, this opportunity involves a limited, time specific commitment and is an easy effort.
 
Please chat with Paul Langer if you want additional information or are willing to manage an event. You can reach him at 202-595-4377.
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Money Smart, Life Smart, Breaking the Generation Cycle

Brenda Campbell President and CEO of SecureFutures shared the vision, goals and volunteer opportunities for this non-profit organization. Secure Futures programs are “Building stronger communities by empowering teens with financial education, tools, and mentorship. An investment in teen financial capability is an investment in the future.” These programs focus on 11th and 12th grade students, and Brenda shared success stories and examples of how communities are stronger through these financial literacy programs.

The three programs available are:

Money Path – The most complete academic, career and financial app for teens and young adults. Money Path “opens student’s eyes” to the reality of how academic and career choices they make now impact their life and long-term financial wellbeing. This plug and play program gives the students a look into their financial future based on earnings and debt if they go into the workplace, a 2 year, or a 4 year school so they can make informed planning decisions.

Money Coach – Is the only financial mentoring program of its kind. Focusing on under resourced communities, Money Coach empowers teens through one-on-one small group mentorship to build strong money management habits for long-term financial capability. This program is a semester long and allows mentors to help students in numerous way as they build their coaching relationship. 

Money Sense – Teaches teens money management essentials with a flexible program that introduces teens to financial basics like banking, creating a savings plan, managing a budget, and maintaining healthy credit.

By getting involved you can change a teen’s life. “Volunteers are a critical component of these programs. Your unique life and professional experience allow you to bring our financial literacy programs to life, connecting teens where they are and sharing real-world examples of how money management works.”

Volunteers are down from 1,200 pre-pandemic to about 250 today. If you are interested in volunteering for any of these programs, visit www.securefutures.org to explore details of the various programs and available opportunities. Or contact Brenda Campbell at brenda@securefurues.org 414-310-5920

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You're Never Far from Rotary! 
One of the Great things about Rotary is you are welcome to attend Rotary meetings all over the world!
 
Rotary has a Club Locater App that lists every Rotary club in the world, when and where they meet. 
 
Next time you travel, check out a Rotary Club in the area.  Call ahead if you can - but even if you just stop in - they will be welcoming. Here is a recap of memorable experiences I've gained:
I have attended meetings in Mesa, AZ,  Seattle, WA,  Savannah, GA,  Mystic, CT,   and Jackson Hole, WY   among others.  Besides having a good meal and an interesting program, you may find some pretty cool people at your table  (the sheriff of Jackson,  a bunch of retired Generals in Savannah, or the guy who puts on the Unlimited Hydroplane Boat races for SeaFair in Seattle - among others).    And - because you have probably missed an Elmbrook club meeting on your travels- you also get to count this as a Make-up meeting and get credit for your meal cost.
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Every Student, Every Time, All the Time

Elmbrook School Superintendent Dr. Mark Hansen presented a district update at the Elmbrook Rotary Club's 1/13/23 meeting. Dr. Hansen has served as Superintendent since 2012 and shared how the district has grown and prospered over the years.

“With an amazing staff, really engaged parents and thoughtful kids”, the district has been ranked in the top four in the state, based on student achievement and customer satisfaction.

“Bringing college into the high schools” gives students access to 30 college credits before they graduate. This allows students to explore career option in High School vs. a more expensive evaluation while away at college. 

· Dual Credit Options allows students to simultaneously earn college and high school credits through several college sponsored on or off campus locations.

· Another introduction to different careers is the Launch program. Launch is a professional based learning experience providing students with real world business experiences.

· Internship/Mentorship programs help both partners and students with real-world challenges in fields of student's interests. Local businesses are helping to strengthen our local education. 

Dr. Hansen proudly shared the success of the different sports teams, and performing art programs the students are involved in.

Elmbrook has an AAA bond rating, being one of three school districts in Wisconsin with that distinction. Due to a well-managed and unique capital investment program, funding for projects and facilities maintenance is not reliant on a referendum or bond. Due to controlled costs the tax mil rate has gone from $13.60 to $7.47 over the past thirty-one years while academic performance has gone up.

With healthcare costs rising 8-12% annually, the district became a self-insured entity. An Acute Care Clinic located within the heart of the district provides service to staff members during the workday. With this offering there is less disruption on the educational side by staff being able to visit the clinic during class prep time. This program has saved 34 million dollars in healthcare costs over the past five years.

If you are interested in volunteering your expertise for Launch, please talk with Jack Nelson, vocational chair. 

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A First Line of Defense in Keeping Your Loved Ones Safe – Smoke and CO Alarms

The installation and maintenance of smoke and CO alarms are key to an early warning of a fire or the presence of carbon monoxide (an odorless and colorless gas that can cause illness or sudden death) 

Safety Tips:

 

  • Fire and CO alarms should be installed on every level. Smoke alarms should also be in front of and inside sleeping areas. Basements need them too. 
  • Test alarms monthly
  • Replace unit every 10 years or at manufacturer recommendation 
  • Keep 10 ft + from stove
  • When starting a vehicle, pull it out of the garage immediately to avoid CO build up
  • Clear dryer, furnace, stove, and fireplace vents during/ after a heavy snow
  • Some of the symptoms of CO poisoning are: headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain and confusion. If you suspect CO poisoning, move to a fresh air location and call the fire department. 

Depending on the CO levels, the effects can develop over time or have sudden onset within minutes. Victims of CO poisoning may require the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy to increase the concentration of oxygen in the blood stream, replacing the carbon monoxide. Depending on CO levels this may take 4-5 hours in the chamber.

Your fire department has the tools to identify hidden fires using thermal imaging and CO levels via a multi-gas meter.

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Comparing notes 
Did you know that a Rotary member is welcome at Rotary meeting in the world?
 
On January 17, 2023 Rotarians Paul Sawicki & Jackson Bubolz decided to follow up on the advise given by our district governor and check out another meeting. They visited the Milwaukee Rotary club, noticing many similarities and many differences. 
 
The Milwaukee Club meets at noon on Tuesdays at the Veterans Memorial Building. They are holding their first meeting of the month in the morning, and it's causing quite a stir among members. Pictured above is the name area for their 400+ members. 
 
The food was excellent, the speaker was great- similar quality to ours. The one most notable difference... they didn't have time for happy/sad fines with over 100 people attending. 
 
 
Milwaukee, Mequon/Thiensville, Mukwonago, or other. Checking out another club brings perspective, insight, and a chance to meet new Rotarians in our community or from around the world. 
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Network with "Northern Rotarians"
We continue to hear that Rotary isn't just about having breakfast while listening to a speaker. Some may conjecture that breakfast is the smallest piece to being a Rotarian. 
 
Our club has a social event lined up on January 25th where Lucas Severson will be delivering a late afternoon Trivia session. 

If trivia isn't your thing, or you want to take a drive after the last question is answered, there is an excellent opportunity to network with Rotarians who meet to the North of us. Rotarians will discuss projects they are excited about, items that aren't working quite yet, and everything in between. 
 
 
 
If this looks like an event you are interested, please say so during happy fines this Friday. This seems like a second great opportunity to carpool with members of our own club and get to know them better. Then, we break up and meet other folks at the event, and compare notes on the way home. 
 
 
Trivia night or a District mixer, investing time in Rotary will enhance your experience, and also enhance the connections we have in our club! 
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January Birthdays & Anniversaries
 
 
Please join the Elmbrook Rotary Club in celebrating our esteemed member Birthdays and Anniversaries in January.
 
 
"December is letting go, Of all the past year’s fails, And starting anew in January, As time again chases its tail." – Stewart Stafford
 
Happy Birthday! Wishing a wonderful year of good health, happiness, and success to our members:
 
  • Jan Constable
  • Jack Hill
  • Dean Johnson
  • Wally Smanski
 
ERC also recognizes the following membership anniversaries:
 
  • David Irwin, 1 year
  • Thomas Michalski, 1 year
  • Larry Rovens, 2 year
  • Jack Hill, 5 years
  • Carol White, 20 years
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Why is Rotary Growing in Ukraine During a War? 

By Tom Gump, member of the RI Membership Growth committee and past governor of District 5950 (Minnesota, USA), and Mykola Stebljanko, public image coordinator in Zone 21A and past governor of District 2232 (Ukraine)

Membership has grown 23.5% in Ukraine since Russian forces invaded the country on 24 February 2022. The region, which comprises Rotary District 2232, has added four Rotary clubs and five satellite clubs. The reasons behind this growth hold important insights for any Rotary club interested in increasing its membership or any district looking to add clubs.

We conclude that no one joins a club, Rotary or otherwise, to sit around and do nothing. People join because they want to become engaged with a cause and do something real. Rotary matters and engaging our members in service opportunities that create lasting change matters.

 

The clubs in Ukraine became more visible in their communities in the days and months after the war began. People are witnessing the positive impact members are having and want to join in on making a difference.

One club, for example, had their members learn to become volunteer firefighters so they could help put out fires, literally, when local building are hit by shelling.

People are drawn to the opportunity to find meaning and purpose when they see real positive change taking place.

Survey results

The example in Ukraine essentially confirms the results of the three most recent Rotary International annual surveys – the all-member, programs and offerings, and leadership surveys. These found that club experience is the single most important indicator of member satisfaction. A Rotary member who does not have a positive club experience won’t find enough value in the club to stay. New members who join a club but find it doesn’t meet their expectation frequently leave. And new members who are never integrated into club activities are most likely to leave no matter what else Rotary has to offer beyond their club.

In the surveys, Rotary International membership staff used attitudinal questions and resulting answers to cluster members into four distinct types.

  • Inclusive-friendship engagement
  • Disengagement
  • Exclusive-professional engagement
  • Hyper-engagement

Each type had implications for satisfaction and retention. The scariest part was that 24.9% of members worldwide, the second highest, fell into the disengagement type. These members are the most likely to terminate their membership from dissatisfaction.

Impact clubs

We believe the growth the Ukraine clubs have experienced is not a fluke, and has important lessons for all clubs. The “impact clubs” that are forming in North Carolina, USA, do more service projects and have less meetings and are growing in their membership.

If you want to grow your membership, create a club experience that allows your members to be people of action. Let’s learn from the example in Ukraine and grow Rotary by engaging our members.

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Register Now for Rotary TriCon 2023

Rotary International Districts 6220, 6250 and 6270, which span from Rotary clubs in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan to the majority of Wisconsin, are jointly holding an outstanding Rotary conference experience. The topics and goals would be difficult to accomplish with the resources of a single district, so don't miss out on this lively, educational, and fun-filled Rotarian experience.

TriCon 2023 is at The La Crosse Center in La Crosse, Wisconsin. The conference starts on Friday, April 28, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. and concludes on Saturday, April 29.

A Rotary Foundation dinner (open to all) occurs on Thursday evening, April 27, and a “Meal Packing Service Event” and a “Pints for Polio Fundraising Event” occur immediately after the conclusion of the conference on Saturday, April 29.

The conference is filled with outstanding speakers and breakout sessions that will both educate and motivate. Learn more at: www.rotarytricon.com

Registration is now open and available via the above link. “Early Bird Registration” ends on February 28, after which the conference registration fee increases to $50. Elmbrook Rotary Club will subsidize up to ten (10) members with $250 each to attend TriCon 2023 (pending member eligbility). This will cover approximately 60% of the conference cost (excluding transportation) 

On top of the fantastic company and content, Rotarians will have an opportunity to take in the beautiful La Crosse, WI and even take the Amtrak if one is feeling so adventurous. 

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Snow Blower Injuries: The Invisible Danger

Snow season is here, bringing the need to shovel or use a snowblower. There are more than 3000 snowblower injuries each year resulting in lost fingers, mangled hands, and injured wrists. These types of injuries are life-changing. 

Here are a few tips on how to avoid lacerations, the loss of fingers and broken bones:

 

· You can spray the auger, impeller, and chute with a cooking spray, WD40 or a commercial snow blower chute spray to help prevent snow

from sticking and jamming the blower.

· Most accidents occur when snow is wet, heavy, and deep. If a significant snowfall or wet snow is predicted, consider blowing several times during the storm, reducing the workload and clog potential on the blower.

· Upon a jam, turn the snow blower OFF and disengage the clutch, waiting a minute may assist in releasing the impacted impeller’s stored energy.

· NEVER PUT YOUR HAND DOWN THE CHUTE. If a jam occurs, use a broom stick or device provided with the blower designed to clear out the snow in the chute. Try not to get the stick too close to the impeller when clearing the snow from the chute. If the impeller catches the stick, injury to the wrist can occur from whiplash.

Dr. Kalar, surgeon at the Mayo Clinic, says “Most people don’t realize that you can still injure your hands even when you turn the snowblower off”. When snow or an object, like a rock or stick, jams the auger or impeller, kinetic rotational energy is captured and stored in the system. As the obstruction is cleared, the impellers forcefully rotate releasing the energy and, within an instant, can capture and sever fingers and break bones even with the snowblower shut off. This information can be applied to either single or two stage snowblowers.

Please share this information with family and friends.

Be safe and enjoy the winter season!

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Holiday Special Coming 
Each year, the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) puts on a Holiday special to celebrate traditions and the excitement at the end of year. 
 
Please join us for our last meeting at the Western Racquet Club this Friday (12.16), & check out the Holiday program at our temporary home, The Machine Shed in Pewaukee on 12/23. 
 
Our 12/23 Machine Shed meeting will offer great food, holiday fun, and the perfect way to close out the 2022 calendar year.
 
Please join us at 7a the 16th and the 23rd! 
Christmas Tree Safety

Ever wonder exactly how quickly a Christmas Tree can burn? 

NFPA Christmas Tree Video 

 

A tree fire produces extremely hazardous conditions, that can result in loss of life and property in only a matter of seconds.

This tree had not been watered. Observe how fast the fire spreads for the tree, traveling upward to the ceiling expanding in volume and spreading within the room. Temperatures can reach 1300F degrees at the ceiling.

If your tree is in an open design space, the fire will continue to grow and travel up stairwells and into rooms with open doors. If the tree is confined to an enclosed room, the fire will continue to grow until the fuel is consumed causing the fire to become fuel and oxygen starved. The room visibility will blacken, and temperatures can be 1000F degrees from ceiling to floor creating a deadly environment.

· Almost one third of home Christmas Tree fires are caused by electrical problems

· Although Christmas Tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are likely to be serious

· A heat source too close to the tree can causes more than one in every five of the fires

Please:

· Make sure the smoke and CO alarms are in good working order

· Make sure the tree is at least 3 feet from a heat source and not blocking an exit

· Check light strings for worn or broken cords

· Water the tree daily

· Turn off the tree lights when not at home or when sleeping

· Have all bedroom doors closed while sleeping

· Review options on how you plan to exit your home during a fire

· Dispose of the tree when it dries-out

Stay safe and have a wonderful holiday season.

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Elmbrook Rotary Interact Club

On December 12, 2022, 4 officers of Brookfield East's Rotary Interact Club visited the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC).

Interact clubs bring together young people ages 12-18 to develop leadership skills while discovering the power of "Service Above Self.” The Brookfield East club organizes at least two projects every year, one that helps their school or community and one that promotes international understanding. Rotary clubs sponsor, mentor, and guide Interactors as they carry out projects and develop leadership skills. The ERC's mentor is Rotarian Jack Hill.

Each Officer introduced themselves and explained what activities they were involved in:

· Mary, a sophomore, has been with the club for one year. She was involved in a program that provided cards for retirement home residents.

· Megan, a senior, has been with the club for three years. She helped prep signs for the fine arts craft fair benefit

· Mia, a senior, has been with the club three years. She is looking forward to the "blanket drive" for the woman’s shelter.

· Alex, a senior, has been with the club for four years. He has enjoyed volunteering at the Brookfield Germanfest event.

Interact Club aims to connect with leaders in our community and around the world to:

· Take action to make a difference in your school and community

· Discover new cultures and promote international understanding

· Become a leader in your school and community

· Have fun and make new friends form around the world

· There are 342,953 Interactors in 14,911 clubs worldwide in 145 countries

Thank you, Mary, Megan, Mia, Alex and Interact members for your service to the community and each other.

For additional information on Rotary Interact Clubs, visit www.rotary.org or Rotary International on Facebook.

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Renovation and Remodel of the Western Racquet Club

At the December 16, 2022 Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) meeting President Harry Farchman introduced Timon Corwin, General Manager of the Western Racquet Club.

Corwin shared the Western Racquet Club's (WRC) goal to update key areas within the club. The vision is to make the club a member destination where they can socialize, watch live events or enjoy the bar room, dinner, or relax by the fireplace. Upgrades of the dining room, boardroom, bathrooms, and lobby will give the club a new fresh inviting look. To keep the full-time staff employed, there will be various projects available, and opportunities and benefits for the members during the construction phase.

 

The Project

During the pandemic, private clubs were anxious and unsure of what the impact would be on membership activity, recruitment, and retention. Instead of a reduction, this private club found that membership grew by a net of sixty families. This growth spawned the idea of reviewing the club’s operations and the need for developing a strategic plan for the renovation and remodel of the WRC. The last major renovation was in 2017, changes to the pool deck area.

A focus group was formed, comprised of staff and club members. A blend of feedback from this group on how they want to use the space provided guidance for the architects. The target remodel areas were the bar room, dining room, bathrooms, board room, lobby area and kitchen. From this group, a strategic plan was developed.

Planned Changes

· Bar room area – replacing and expanding the existing bar area to include more bar seating, with adjacent A la carte dining and removal of walls, opening the space, to a fireplace with soft seating. Large screen TV’s will added.

· Dining room - replacing the existing carpet/tile, installing a new wood plank ceiling, lighting fixtures, interior doors, wall treatments, and the removal of the wait station.

· Kitchen - replacing the flooring, ceiling, and upgrading the dish washing station. Upon completion of the kitchen remodel, curbside meals will be available to the members and bar service in the lower level.

· Additional Changes will include upgrade of the audio/visual/Wi-Fi system, current board room to become an A la carte dining room, a built-in host station in the lobby, updating of the bathrooms and new furniture and artwork.

The plan is for the project to be completed by the end of April and the Club fully open for Mother’s Day.

Timon joined the club staff in 2010 as Director of the Tennis Program followed by the appointment of General Manager. Prior to receiving the Tennis Director position at the club, Timon coached collegiate tennis, was a collegiate tournament director, received the Arthur Ash award, named Coach of the Year, played tennis professionally, and was inducted into the Collegiate Coach Hall of Fame. Timon graduated from Brookfield Central High School in 1982, Kalamazoo College, and Marquette Law School. He and his wife have four children who have attended Brookfield East High School.

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In Memory of Gordy Miller 
Last week, Gordy Miller, 73, passed away. Gordon K. Miller (October 17, 1949  -  December 4, 2022) Obituary 
 
He had been our foundation treasurer and has been a very active member of our Club for 18 years. Please keep Jerri and Gordy's family and many close friends in your prayers.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations directly to the Arthritis Foundation at https://www.arthritis.org or the Elmbrook Humane Society at https://ebhs.org

We have some great pictures with Gordy from December meetings. 

 

 

Candy Cane Connection 
On December 11, 2022, the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) at the Wellpoint Candy Cane Connection Event. 
 
                       
 
If you know people who have this kind of cheer, invite them to our next Rotary meeting! 
Growing Rotary Through Service

Mike Phillips, District Governor, and member of the West Bend Sunrise Rotary Club addressed the Elmbrook Rotary at the Friday Dec. 9th meeting. He reviewed his role as Governor and talked about the structure of Rotary, number of clubs word wide, the Rotary Presidents Theme “Imagine Rotary”, and the challenges of growth and retention.

In President Jennifer Jones's Imagine Rotary theme, she encourages: 

· Imagine how we can be better clubs by fully engaging our members within the club

· Imagine how we can grow ourselves through our mission and service to others

· Imagine how we can provide service and benefits to our community and beyond

The Challenges for Club Growth and Retention

Mike reviewed a program for recruitment and retention created by the West Plano Rotary Club. This program has resulted in considerable membership growth and retention for their Club. This program focuses on the use of social media, i.e., Facebook and partnerships between the club and other non-profit community organizations.

Promotion of Projects and Volunteer Opportunities through social media

Our current and planned new projects can be announced through a Facebook Event post with the ability for easy volunteer sign-up. Through emails, the Elmbrook Rotary website, and our newsletter, projects and events can be further highlighted. There are many individuals in our community that may be looking for opportunities to volunteer without the commitment of joining a club. As this program grows, there may be a number of these volunteers who recognize the value of community service, fellowship, and personal growth gained through membership in the Elmbrook Rotary Club.

As community members become aware of our volunteer opportunities and participate, a contact email/phone database can be created. As a new project is posted, former participants can be contacted to see if they may be interest in the upcoming project or event.

Partnerships with other Non-Profit Community Organizations

There are several nonprofit organizations in our area that may be looking for volunteers for their service projects. Volunteer event partnering will increase the awareness, and visibility of the Elmbrook Rotary within the community and metro area. Through partnerships, there will be club exposure and an opportunity to attract more members.

We meet at 7a on Fridays. Rotarians, please bring your friends. 

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Pancake Partnership 
2.5 weeks until the Pancake Breakfast! 
 
Our District Governor Mike Phillips encouraged our group to engage other service groups in the area. This event would be a great way to get things rolling. 
 
Please save the date for February 4th, and maybe invite your family or a friend to join you. The more interactions we have with other service groups, the more opportunities are bound to present themselves. 
 
Elmbrook Rotary Hayride
For years the Elm Brook Rotary Club (ERC) has sponsored the Hay Ride at the Brookfield German Holiday Market. The tradition continued another year as Rotarians braved the cold to staff the attraction and share with others what Rotary is all about. 
 
Do you know people that think standing in the cold for charity is a good deal?  Bring them to a Rotary volunteer event! 
Wellpoint Foster Family donation 
Christmas is on for over 100 families at Wellpoint!
 
Students at Wellpoint can be candidates for very few presents or no gifts during the holidays. The Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) donated both monies that were turned into toys, as well as bought and wrapped toys themselves. Each of the gifts matches a specific "wish" for a boy or a girl in our community. 
 
Jack Nelson and Doug Jacobson delivered over 100 gifts that will find their way into someone's stocking this Holiday. 
 
Wrapping and delivering gifts is one example of dozens the ERC activities we organize throughout each year to help brighten the school and home life of hundreds of children in our own and surrounding communities.  
 
If you are curious what a "Service" group is all about, please join us for a 7a Friday meeting. 
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Polio Update 
What is that Polio Picture?  What will it take?
 
A little history - Before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, progress towards eradicating polio was proceeding at a remarkable rate. During the 1940s and ’50s, when polio outbreaks were a common scourge of the summer months, the disease killed or paralysed more than half a million people worldwide each year – mostly children. The introduction of inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) and, later, live attenuated oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV) led to a dramatic reduction in the incidence of polio in higher-income countries during the 1960s and ’70s.
But it wasn’t until the 1980s that the battle against polio really commenced.
 
 
 
 
At that time, community- and school-based surveys revealed that polio was the leading cause of paralysis in lower-income countries, with one in every 200 polio infections causing paralysis.
 
In 1988, the World Health Assembly adopted a resolution for the worldwide eradication of the disease, and a public-private partnership called the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) was launched. Led by national governments, together with the World Health Organization (WHO), Rotary International, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, UNICEF, and later joined by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Gavi, The Vaccine Alliance, GPEI has made huge progress in protecting countries’ populations against polio through widespread OPV campaigns. 
 
Advocate, Donate & Educate to END POLIO NOW & FOREVER!
20,000,000 Children Saved from the Paralysis of Polio Since 1988      
    
 
 
 Total paralysis cases
Year-to-date 2022
 
Total
2021
Total
2020
 
Total
2019
Total
 2018
Globally
30
6
140
176
33
- in endemic countries:
22
5
140
176
33
- in post-endemic countries:
8
1
0
0
0
 
 
2022 Wild Polio Cases – Pakistan 20, Afghanistan 2, Mozambique 8
 
 
"The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain!"
- Dolly Parton, Singer, Actress, Humanitarian, and Winner of the 2022 Courage & Civility Award
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Holiday Season Safety Tips

Before the Holiday festivities begin, there are a few fire facts and fire prevention suggestions from the National Fire Protection Agency:

49% of house fires are caused by unattended stove top cooking, with triple the number of fires on Thanksgiving Day. Most of these cooking equipment fires are due to overheating of cooking oils.

· Do not leave items cooking on the stovetop unattended.

· Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are in working order. Test them annually by pressing the “Test Button”. Both Smoke and CO alarms should be replaced every seven to ten years.

· Have a fire extinguisher and or a fire smothering blanket, (i.e. Prepared Hero Fire Blanket) available within proximity of the kitchen. Make sure the extinguisher’s indicator registers in the “Green”

· If a fire occurs in a pan on the stovetop (and can be done safely), place a lid, cookie sheet, fire blanket or other non-flammable type cover over the pan to smother the fire. If using a fire extinguisher, start far enough back before discharging to keep from splashing the flammable liquid onto any nearby combustible items, causing the fire to grow and extend. Make sure an escape route is unobstructed or will not be blocked by the fire in the event the fire is not extinguished.

· A turkey fryer should not be utilized in a garage, structure or close to any combustible objects.

· If you plan on cleaning your oven with the cleaning cycle, please read the oven cleaning instructions in the operator’s manual and beware of the location of the oven circuit breaker on your electrical panel in case you want to de-energize the appliance.

· Don’t delay in calling 911 in the event of a fire. Fires doubles in size every 30 – 60 seconds.

December is the peak month for fires caused by burning candles

· Do not leave candles burning in an unoccupied room

· More then one-third of home candle fires started in the bedroom

· Three of every five candle fires start when combustible items are too close to the candle. Keep candles at least one foot from flammable furnishings etc.

· More than two of every five decoration fires happen because decorations are placed too close to a heat source

Additional information and the Fire and Injury Prevention Safety Tips program will be provided in the future as the program is developed.

Have a great and safe Thanksgiving!

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Our Local End Polio Now Ride

When we couldn't make the trip to Tucson for the End Polio Now Ride headline event, we decided to reprise last year's ERC Freeze Out Polio Ride on Saturday.   

It’s obvious not everyone in the Land of the Lambeau Field Frozen Tundra is a fan of cold weather (especially when it was in the 70's a week earlier.)  But 2 intrepid riders (thanks Greg) and 3 boosters (thanks Harry, Anne and Evonne) came out for the ride.  And few more (thanks Jim and John) showed up at the Post-Ride Festivities at O'Donoghue's.  Although the offer of a pint of Guinness may have helped.

But there's nothing frigid about the generosity of Elmbrook Rotarians, and our commitment to end polio worldwide.  We have raised nearly $5,000 this year with this event - and that gets matched 2 for 1 by the Gates Foundation.  So GREAT JOB and thanks to everyone who supported the effort. In the last 2 years its now close to $20,000!

There is still time to get involved.  The Cycling 2 Serve Fellowship will be including contribution through month end, so if you haven't yet, consider sending a few bucks to Gordy at our Elmbrook Rotary Foundation for End Polio Now.

You will get a tax deduction, a 2 for 1 match from the Gates Foundation and Paul Harris Credit. A three-3fer! 

If are working on your first Paul Harris Fellowship - it only takes $500, and the Club will match that to get you there. If you are already a Paul Harris Fellow, it takes $800 for your next one and the Club will add the last $200.

Lots of reasons to contribute. Did we also mention we could eliminate Polio worldwide?

You are what makes ERC the great Club that it is.

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Don't let their Stories get away! - The Stories Project

At the 11/18/2022 Friday morning meeting, President Harry Farchmin introduced Toomas Mitt, founder of The Stories Project. The Stories Project began one year ago with the ultimate mission to "Honor and celebrate people’s stories and provide a video keepsake for their families”. The finished product is a way to share life stories with future generations.

The Philosophy: Everyone has a story to tell.

“We believe our lives are a series of stories. These stories uncover our dreams. Expose our heartaches. Celebrate our love. Share our grief. These stories define who we are as individuals and shape our identity as a family. These stories become our legacy. Capture them before they are gone."

Toomas shared how his 92-year-old mother inspired him with her gift of a handwritten autobiography. Her gift told tales of her life that he had no idea transpired. This gave him the idea to start up an organization that would provide a means for individuals to share their life stories. Through the assistance of volunteers, the process is threefold; the initial phone contact, a zoom pre-interview session and the 60-minute video taped interview. Post interview, an unedited copy of the interview is provided on a flash drive that can be shared with their family. The interview is edited down to approximately 30 minutes and with permission, is posted on the website.

“This priceless treasure informs future generations of their heritage.”

If you are interested in learning more about this non-profit organization, volunteering, or sponsorship visit The Stories Project at: www.thestoriesproject.org, call 414-616-3744, or email info@thestoriesproject.org.

If learning more about your local businesses and non profits is a focus, consider joining us for a 7a Friday meeting. 

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Waukesha County Park System – A Way to Enjoy All that Nature has to Offer

Rotarian Mark Thurner introduced Steven Siodlarz and Emily Hiller from the Waukesha County Park System. Steven is a senior landscape architect who plans, designs, plus manages the construction and development of the System’s lands and facilities. The WCPS is a passive recreation nature-based system comprised of:

· 9 Fee-Based Parks – 3000 + acres

· 12 Greenways/Park Land – 4000 +

· 4 Bike and Pedestrian recreation trails for hiking and nature watching – 41 miles

· 2 Golf Courses

· 2 Ice Arenas

· Retzer Nature Center – 477 acres

· 5 Lake Access Sites

· Expo Center for special events

Steven gave an overview of the facilities and recreation opportunities offered at each location. During the pandemic, the parks remained open and experienced an increase in attendance that has been sustained post pandemic. One of the most recent projects is the 3-mile Fox River Trail. The plan is to connect many of the trails, providing a continuum network through the county and beyond.

Emily is the Public Communication Coordinator for the System. She shared information on their collaborative Partnership Engagement Program with partners, stakeholders, sponsors, and volunteers. Emily explained the importance of communication between these partners to maintain a viable sustainable program where everyone involved is an “owner of the end result”. Volunteers are a key component in providing the parks with:

· The Adopt-a-Trail program

· General Park maintenance

· Tree planting at various sites

· Citizen Science Programs

· The Adopt-a-Drain program

· Habitat restoration workdays

· Special events assistance

· The Retzer Teaching Naturalist program

Emily thanked the Elmbrook Rotary Club for their 2023 Adopt-a-Trail Commitment, and the recent planting of 30 trees by Rotarians along the Fox River Trial.

For more information about the Waukesha County Park System, visit their website at www.waukeshacounty.gov to learn more about the recreational and volunteer opportunities available.

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The Good, Bad and the Ugly – Lessons Learned

On 11/4/2022, Linda Wickstrom, an Elmbrook Rotarian and Public Information Officer (PIO) for the Waukesha County Health and Human Services Department gave a presentation on the role of the Public Information Officer. As a member of the Incident Management Response Team (IMT) for Southeast Wisconsin, she described the need for a “Go Bag” that is kept in her car with the essentials needed to perform her duties. As a Team member, she may be deployed at any time, day, or night.

This past August, Linda spent 4 days at the National Information Officer Association Convention, which she is a member. Four hundred PIO’s from across the country, shared their experiences with “the good, bad, and the ugly”, with Lessons Learned from incidents, as members of the Response Team.

Linda shared two events that were presented and critiqued at the convention. One of many challenges for the PIO is to be transparent providing, timely and accurate information to the public.

On August 29th, 2021, Hurricane Ida, a major Category 4, hit Louisiana as a “Life Altering Storm”. With that terminology from the PIO, along with a mandatory evacuation order, residents understood the severity of the situation. As a result, there were no deaths associated with this incident.

The storm knocked out all power and internet service, delaying the first news conference by 4 days. Social Media became a means for the PIO and Team to view and track postings of the storm damage and needs of the community.

Some of the PIO Lessons Learned:

· Debris from an event like a hurricane, can cause flat tires on various first responder vehicles. Dedicated maintenance and repair units are needed to help keep the first responder mobile.

· As soon as possible, have a news media conference. At that conference, identify reputable charities the people can contribute to, and warn residents and business owners of potential contractor fraud.

· Due to the possible occurrence of the internet being down, have paper maps available for (EOC) Emergency Operations Center and response teams.

On January 22nd, 2021 a county in a southern state was a victim that brought their operation to a grinding halt for weeks by a cyber-attack that entered their system via a spearfishing fake emailed invoice with a macros enabled attachment. Once opened, the malware entered the county network system of 60 independent servers that were not backed-up. The attackers demanded a $500,000 bitcoin ransom. In the end, the county did not pay the ransom.

As a result:

· Emails were down for one month and communications were by phone

· 3,000 of the county computers needed to be scrubbed. The costs to scrub the computers and upgrade the system was significant.

· The county was unable to cut payroll checks

· They lost two days of data that could not be recovered

· Most of the system was down for 4-5 months

Take aways for business owners:

· Have your system backed up

· Have a cyber security insurance policy

· Make sure the insurance company will monitor the dark web if an attack occurs to see if the attackers have posted anything regarding the cyber attack

· Have a Crisis Business Continuity Plan in place in the event there is a complete loss of power

· Have an attack plan to keep operational

Linda, thank you for sharing the role of the Public Information Officer, your experiences, and thoughts with the Elmbrook Rotary.

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Elmbrook Rotary Announces Business Person of the year 

On November 9, 2022 the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) announced Neil Palmer, President, Village of Elm Grove, as the recipient of the 6th annual Business Person of the Year Award. The program recognizes the leadership and accomplishments of a successful Brookfield or Elm Grove individual.

Neil Palmer has served the Village of Elm Grove as a Trustee for fourteen years and as Village President for seventeen. Village government structure in Wisconsin is a unique arrangement. In most areas, board members possess the authority and the rights, and the Village President has no veto power. The Village President does, however, nominate all committee members—trustees and citizen members. None of the Board members are full-time, and Village operations are managed by hired professionals. Palmer's strategies for success were hiring good people and recognizing the Village President is achieved by being a leader—not a boss.

Before launching his consulting company in 1994, Neil spent 21 years with Wisconsin Electric Power Company in a number of positions of increasing responsibility. Neil Palmer & Associates was founded to assist clients to evaluate, site, permit and construct major projects, especially those in regulated energy industries. Neil’s success led to work for clients in industrial development, landfill, communications and the railroad industries.

Under Neil Palmer’s boards, The Village saved Tonawanda Elementary School, brought a safe sidewalk down Juneau Boulevard, facilitated the addition of Watermark Condominiums, and prevented the teardown of the original St. Mary’s Church— these are just a few of the many projects that have occurred during Palmer's 31 years of service.

Perhaps, one of the most important contributions has been Neil’s work following the devastating flood of 1998. Neil led a multi-year project to develop a crucial village-wide storm water management plan involving state and regional efforts. This resulted in the Village Park being re-imagined and re-developed into the popular and vibrant space it is today. He continues to work towards the revitalization of the downtown, the daylighting of the creek through the business district, and the consideration of the School Sisters of Notre Dame campus redevelopment as current top priorities.

Pictured from left: Doug Jacobson, Tom Michalski (ERC Business Person Selection Committee), Neil Palmer (ERC 2022 Business Person of the Year), Steve Ponto (Mayor, City of Brookfield), Ralph Gould (ERC Award Program Chair)

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Light News... 
Seems like a light news week, doesn't it? 
 
The ERC Sunrise eBulletin is comprised of stories of completed service projects, updates on donations, recaps of weekly meetings, birthdays/ anniversaries, & some club related mischief. The website & newsletter have links to upcoming events, direct links to Rotary, and upcoming speakers.
 
The website and the eBulletin are as robust as what's shared with the PR team. If you have a completed project, upcoming involvement opportunity, or mischief, please send a short article and a picture and we'll get it in the Sunrise. 
 
A big THANK YOU to Bill Selzer for taking over weekly meeting recaps. His articles are delivering great recaps of our Friday meetings. Thanks to Chris Salani for always snapping the pictures. 
 
Please keep the PR team up to date with the positive projects you're working on, and we'll keep the Sunrise full. 
 
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Elmbrook Rotary 2022 Business Person of the Year – Elm Grove Village President Neal Palmer

Every year the Elmbrook Rotary honors a local businessperson “For Outstanding Business Achievement and Community Service”. This year’s recipient, Neal Palmer, was introduced by Rotarians Ralph Gould and Doug Jacobson.

For 21 years, Neal was employed by Wisconsin Electric. In 1994, he started the consulting firm Neal Palmer and Associates. His company was founded “to assist clients with efforts to evaluate, site, permit and construct major projects”.

Over the past 31 years, Neal has volunteered and served as a Trustee on the Village of Elm Grove Board for 14 years followed by 17 years as Board President. During his tenure, he served on numerous village committees and as President, lead the Village Board in the following:

· Due to the extensive damage in the 1998 flood, a multi-year village wide storm water management plan was developed, resulting in the Village Park and other sites being reimagined and redeveloped. This was a successful regional and state flood mitigation project.

· Keeping Tonawanda Elementary School open

· Funding a sidewalk on Juneau Blvd. west of the railroad tracks, that provides a safe pedestrian access to the Village Park

· The Preservation of the Old St. Mary’s Church on the corner of Watertown Plank and Juneau Blvd.

· The addition of the Watermark Condominium project

· Development of a Master Plan for the revitalization of the downtown area

· Daylighting of the creek through the business district

· The Sisters of Notre Dame campus redevelopment project

As this year’s recipient, Neal thanked the Rotary members for this honor and their service. He recognized and thanked his wife for her support. He also thanked Jill Varick and Jennifer Morales from the Audubon Society, who also attended the event.

Neal’s philosophy, echoes that of his grandfather’s, “You don’t have the right to complain about anything if you are not willing to try and change it”.

Over the years he has embraced the belief, as a leader, that “Everybody brings knowledge. If you come into the room with the understanding, we all have the same goal, lets try to figure out how we get from here to there and best way possible.”

Neal said, "As president, you layout the issues that need to be addressed, keep at them until you get them solved, and try to bring people together”.

He credited the success of many village projects to the talents of those board members, resident volunteers, and professionals he served with through the years.

In closing, Neal emphasized the importance of public service, and encouraged residents to “get involved in your local government”.

And if you, a loved one, or friend want to be more connected to our community, please check out a 7a Friday morning meeting with the Elmbrook Rotary Club!

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Partners In Hope Annual Fundraiser 
Community Warehouse’s Partners In Hope, a faith-based prisoner re-entry program based in Milwaukee and one of Elmbrook Rotary’s mini-grant recipients this year, held their annual fundraiser at the beautiful Sharon Lynn Wilson Center on October 22.
The theme was “Discovering Hope, New Beginnings”. Several graduates of the program told their incredible personal stories and Jose Hernandez, CEO, noted the tremendous growth in the number of graduates this year. Companies like Quad Graphics have stepped up to the plate to hire and support these graduates, as well as other local businesses. Everyone, including Rotarians Phil Landry and Lydia Miller, left the event uplifted and hopeful – and for good reason – this program works!
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Small commitment, huge harvest 
Trumpets are sounding - I’m happy to report with October 22nd's produce collection of 206 lbs of unsold produce, the Elmbrook Rotary has collected 3,068 lbs of excess produce so far this season!
 
The Salvation Army THANKS you for collecting food that’s cooked up meals for those in need as well as fresh items that are also added to the food pantry. Thank you!
 
The last farmer's market in Brookfield is 10/29 and we could use one more person for the final week of produce collection. The task is collecting remaining produce from vendors and transporting it to the Salvation Army. Please see Kevin Roche or Mike Groth if interested. 
Rotary Social at C.C.'s Elbow Room
Rotary is about raising awareness of causes, donating time, and giving money. It's also about having fun. 
 
On October 19th the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) went out of a few drinks at C.C.'e Elbow Room in downtown Brookfield. Family stories were shared, business was discussed, and ideas for making the next Rotary project bigger and better were hatched. As you can, these Rotarians are too deep in thoughtful conversation to pose for a picture. 
 
Please mark your calendars for November 19th. A month after a great weekday social, we'll gather at Chris Spresser's renovated and reimagined home for an open house. Come anytime between 12-5p.
 
 
Connecting with our Rotary Roots 
On a recent trip out East, Elmbrook Rotarian Bill Pettersen & wife Fe travelled to Wallingford, Vermont where they were able to visit the home town of Paul Harris. Paul was the founder of Rotary and said the values of his small town were the values he hoped to find in others. 
 
 
As you may know, Paul's "Rotary" club has grown into one of the largest service clubs in the world. 
Elmbrook Senior Taxi 

“Dedicated to Providing Safe, Reliable, and Affordable Transportation”

On 10/21/2022 guest Marj Koslowski, Board President, and Tom Slavinsky, Executive Director, of the ELMBROOK SENIOR TAXI visited the Elmbrook Rotary to talk about their service.

For the past twenty-nine years, the non-profit organization Elmbrook Senior Taxi has been serving seniors 62+ years old and adults with disabilities. Their mission is to “provide transportation to low income, elderly, and otherwise needy residents of City of Brookfield, Town of Brookfield, Village of Elm Grove and Village of Butler”.

Marj discussed the history, the taxi operations and highlighted the benefits to the patrons they serve. The Senior Taxi positively impacts their riders lives by, “keeping seniors in their own homes, supporting parents of disabled adults and providing nutrition support”. Funding is provided by the County, the 4 municipalities, individuals, foundations, and sponsorships. This funding helps in reducing cost to their riders.

The fleet of five taxis with six drivers, provide 900-1000 door to door rides per month with variable cost transportation, for:

· Medical and dental appointments

· Shopping and movies

· Church, work, and errands

· Beauty and barber shop appointments

· Family and friend visits

· Serving Mon.-Tues.-Thurs.-Fri. 8:00am – 5:00pm, Wed. 8am-9pm Sat. 8am-4pm

The objectives are to provide independence and meet the ambulatory needs of seniors and disabled adults at an affordable, breakeven rate. Riders can obtain a Waukesha County Taxi Card that provides a discount on fares. Taxis are disinfected between passengers, and drivers along with their passenger’s, wear masks following CDC guidelines. To learn more, visit www.elmbrookseniortaxi.org

Currently, Elmbrook Senior Taxi is looking to hire 4 additional drivers. A background check and driving record review are a requirement.

If you, a loved one or friend need door to door transportation at a fair price, consider the ELMBROOK SENIOR TAXI at 262-785-1200, and Facebook @ELMBROOK SENIOR TAXI.

And if you or a loved one wants to be more connected to our community, please check out a 7a Friday morning meeting with the Elmbrook Rotary Club! 

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Elmbrook Rotarians Clean Up Well 
Being a Rotarian means giving a little of ourselves back to our community.
 
Pictured on October 15, 2022 are Dean Johnson, President Harry Farchim, Scott Dryburgh, and Tom Curl in front of one of the signs touting Elmbrook Rotary's Sponsorship. They pictured are a few of the 9 Rotarian and one spouse team participating in our Adopt-A-Highway initiative. This is a recent initiative for the club, taking responsibility for a stretch of Greenfield Rd and keeping it looking great. 
 
If you feel like you'd like to be proactive around some of the "trashy" challenges in our society, check out a 7a meeting. The Elmbrook Rotary Club offers programming, volunteering, and donation opportunities year round round to keep Rotarians engaged in making the world an even better place to pass on to our children. 
 
 
Milwaukee Symphony’s Beautiful New Home
On October 14, 2022 Architect George Meyer visited the Elmbrook Rotary Club to talk art and architecture. 
 
Meyer practiced architecture for 35 years and retired in 2021 as CEO of Kahler Slater Architects. The firm has been involved in many key downtown revitalization projects, i.e. the Calatrava Art Museum, Milwaukee Museum, and Kimpton Journeyman Hotel.
 
 
One of the most recent project by his firm, is the renovation of the Warner Grand Theatre, the new home of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra. Located on Wisconsin Avenue and 2nd St., built by Warner Brother in 1931, it was designed to be a “movie palace” for its patrons, and maintained prosperity for many years. In 1973 the Marcus Corporation purchase the theatre and divided the 2000 seat venue into a 1000 seat lower theatre and a 1000 seat upper theatre. Over the years they kept the décor intact. Unfortunately, the doors closed in 1995.
 
Commissioned in 2000, Kahler Slater began the design renovation project for Milwaukee Symphony Orchestras new home. Moving to this new venue next to Grand Avenue Mall and the Convention Center will be part of the area rebirth. The renovation project was completed in 2021, at a cost of seventy million dollars, far below the cost of a new concert hall.
 
One of the key planning elements for this project was the completion of a spatial acoustical study. From the study data, the firm created the theatres remodeled space design. The modifications required to create the best sound quality, patron viewing, venue flexibility, and décor were:
  • Moving the wall behind the Orchestra back thirty-five feet to increase the orchestra area space volume for proper sound mixing. This took six months for set-up, and 8 hours to move this 625-ton wall three feet at a time.
  • Narrowing the space below the balcony to improve the hall sound quality
  • Reshaping the slope in the seating areas to improve patron viewing
  • Providing variable acoustic curtains in the hall that allow to fine tune the music sound quality
  • Adding a projection and lighting area below the balcony, giving the ability to present movies, i.e. Star Wars and Indian Jones with Symphony accompaniment and lighting for the stage.
  • Including stage lifts that allow for orchestra layout rearrangement during intermission
  • Creating an open atrium gathering space with frit glass panes. The fused frit words were names of all the composers the symphony had played prior to moving into the new hall. These panes also cut the heat gain from the sun.
  • Using finish materials that were inspired by the orchestral instruments, i.e. brass and wood
  • Refurbishing the murals on the walls and ceilings. It took one year to clean the soot and accumulated cigarette smoke from over the years. Crews used a mild solvent, cotton balls and q tips.
 
Today, George is the Chair of the UPAF fundraising campaign to support the performing arts in the Milwaukee. If you have not had a chance to see this beautiful renovation, order your tickets to experience a wonderful visual and symphonic experience. If you have not had the chance to familiarize yourself with Rotary, please check out your local Elmbrook Club meetings at 7a each Friday. 
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Changing the way America Travels - Front Desk

On October 7, 2022 the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) was visited by Frontdesk CEO Jesse DePinto.

Frontdesk is a six-year-old Milwaukee based company offering an option to hotels, Vrbo’s and Airbnb’s.  Frontdesk provides fully furnished luxury apartments that are cost-effective, and 50%-100% larger than a average hotel room, including cooking and laundry amenities. The company is in 33 markets with 1,000 units inside 160 buildings. 

They are myopically focuses on urban downtown neighborhood settings, such as Milwaukee’s Third Ward.Jesse shared his company’s mission “to provide short term stays for modern dynamic living”, and a vision for “leading a cultural shift to a type of immersive lifestyle that defines modern travel”.

De Pinto feels we are in the beginning of a travel renaissance, with the data showing people are preferring short term rentals and vacation style rentals over hotels. Stays are offered by the night, week, month, or year, giving travelers flexibility to meet their work and living needs. This provides “fluidity between work, living and travel”.

With the core value of “doing the right thing” through a dedicated engaged diverse staff, the company’s goal is to create an excellent product for their customers through consistency and comfort with every stay.

Frontdesk is providing the next generation of travel options for the modern traveler. All registration is handled online (booking, check-in, door codes, Wi-Fi passwords, and a phone number to call for requesting sheets, towels et) and requests are then delivered on within one hour. There are no front desks or concierge services available.

To learn more About Frontdesk or book accommodation visit: www.stayfrontdesk.com, and to learn more about the Elmbrook Rotary Club, please join us at a 7a meeting, or on a local volunteering excursion. 

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Welcome back Veterans in Focus 

On Friday, September 30, the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) welcomed the Veterans in Focus program and Bonnie Bertram introduced guest speaker Courtney Zeller, C.T.R.S. Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. Courtney has been a Specialist for 12 years with the Zablocki VA Hospital Health Care System. Accompanying her was US Army Iraq Veteran Lavella Green, a program participant, and Kris Hinrich a Milwaukee Rotary V.I.F.P. volunteer member.

As an outpatient health setting specialist, Courtney’s goal is to have a positive impact on veterans who have served our country, focusing on mental health, wellness, and maintaining a stable housing setting.

After visiting veteran homes in 2017, she saw a common theme. Many homes were stark and void of artwork and photographs. These visits inspired her idea. As part of her practice, she envisioned that photography could be one of her therapeutic interventions. This led to the development of the Veterans in Focus Program paring wellness with photography skills, for example:

- Mindfulness and focus

- Identity and perspective

- Balance and composition

- Positive thinking and lighting

The program participants visit various sites in the metro area, they attend instructional sessions on taking portraits, and have an opportunity to listen to a military photographer lecture. At the end of the program, the artists create a photography exhibit of their works. These exhibits have been sponsored by many companies and venues throughout metro Milwaukee. 

The benefits and goals of the program are to:

- Reduce stress and social isolation

- Boost self-esteem & confidence

- Personal accomplishments

- Improve focus & attention

- Explore and connect with community

- Social skills & camaraderie

- Healthy leisure skill

Veterans receive their personal, framed photographs that they can display in their homes. This program is offered annually in two group sessions, spring, and fall. 

Lavella Green shared how this program has positively impacted her life by giving her an opportunity to get out of the house, enjoy the fresh air, and develop her photographic skills. She shared her portfolio of photographs with the group.

Courtney gave a special thank you to Bonnie and the ERC for the support of this program. The ERC has been involved in this program for the past five years through the purchase of cameras, photo printing and framing.

If you are interested in seeing the photographic works of our Veteran artists, here is the information for the next exhibit:

Exploring the Milwaukee Community Through Photography

Date of Exhibit: November 2nd-November 11th (open to the public, Monday-Friday 8am-4:45pm)

Location: Milwaukee City Hall Rotunda, 200 E. Wells St.

Special Meet & Greet the Veterans Artists: November 11th from 12pm-2pm

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Many donations harvested at the Brookfield Farmers Market 
All Summer Rotarians have been taking turns cleaning up at the Brookfield Farmer's Market. What they are doing is collecting unsold produce late morning and delivering it to the Salvation Army.
 
On October 1, 2022 Kevin Roche (pictured with Market manager Bobbi Harvey) rounded up another 251 lbs of fruit and vegetables, bringing the total the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) has collected to 2,570 pounds... and counting... 
 
If this sounds like a nice way to get out in our community and help address food insecurity, please connect with Mike Groth to save your spot as one one of the last produce-donation collectors in  '22.
 
If you'd like to learn more about the ERC, please join us for a 7a meeting at the Western Racquet Club. 
Elmbrook Foundation & Club meeting 9.27.22 recap 
Board meetings are an opportunity for everyone to be a part of open dialogue addressing what types of projects our club pursues, how the club dues are spent, and where our donations end up. All new members are expected to attend a meeting within their first year, and veteran members who haven't been in a while are encouraged to drop in and keep things interesting. 
 
On September 27, 2022 the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) & the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation (ERF) met. A few highlights were:
 
  • Friday Raffle Prize - The winner will be credited one free meal.
  • Dues Increase - The ERC 2022-23 Budget was adopted. To avoid a deficit budget due to increasing costs (RI dues, insurance, technology, etc.), quarterly dues will increase by $25 to $75 effective October 1, 2022. This is the first dues increase for the Club in nearly 10 years.
  • Rotary Youth Exchange - Board approved hosting an Inbound Rotary Youth Exchange student for 2023-24. Expect to hear more from Bill Petterson and other club members who will be championing this effort.
  • Venue Planning during Western Racquet Club renovation - We will temporarily move our Friday morning meetings to the Machine Shed Restaurant starting mid-December when construction starts.
  • Membership Changes - Joe Pottebaum was granted a leave of absence through 12/31/2022, Pati Allen Brickmann and Steve Merritt have left the Club, and Larry Myers was approved Rule of 85 status.
Hope to see you at the next board meeting, 6p on November 22nd. 
Read more...
ERC completes 3rd Habitat project in 2022
The Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) made a decision in 2021 to actively search out opportunities to preform more "hands on" service work. One partnership that really took off was with Milwaukee's Habitat for Humanity. 
 
Habitat for Humanity aims to bring affordable homeownership to anyone who desires it. A way they do that in Milwaukee is by purchasing vacant lots to build on. They fundraise to acquire building materials and wages for their employees, and Habitat relies heavily on volunteer groups for labor. Some labor volunteers come from large corporations, and some comes from churches and service groups like the ERC. 
 
On September 22,  2022 fellow Rotarians Paul Sawicki, Jack Hill, Paul Langer, & Tom Curl  worked with Habitat employees and "Habituals" (volunteer 3+ days a week) to frame the second story of a home on 5th St in Milwaukee. They hoisted walls from the ground to the second level, they tacked in walls, and prepared the home to be enclosed. 
 
The home they worked on could be ready for a family to take over the mortgage as soon as Spring. 
 
If you've been curious about getting involved in a Habitat build, please talk with Mike Groth or Jackson Bubolz about the Friday, October 28 Habitat build. This will be the ERC's 4th of the year, and it will feature a flooring project - a great project for anyone who doesn't love ladders. 
 
     
Read more...
On Demand Club Runner Training
Ever wonder when the next Rotary volunteer event is? Check Club Runner
 
Curious who our speaker is next week? Check Club Runner
 
Want to invite a friend to the next Rotary social? Check Club Runner
 
If you aren't that familiar, please use this link to learn what's all available to you on Club Runner: https://elmbrookrotary.org/
 
The value of this tool is enormous. Our webmaster Larry Meyers has graciously set time aside to teach our members how to both better use the website to learn about upcoming events, and also how to submit your own content, or send your own email message to the group. 
 
If you have events, communications, or recaps and pictures of completed volunteer projects, please use this link to see an On-Demand recording of Larry covering the most commonly used functions on and in the site: Link
 
Thank you Larry for your 3 years of service to the Elm Brook Rotary Club, and the training provided to keep this well oiled public relations team moving. 
Read more...
Sending or Hosting an Exchange Student? 
The Rotary Youth Exchange program is our flagship study abroad program for young people ages 15 – 18.
 
The experience begins the year before going to study abroad, with the application, selection and preparation processes. Students spend a year abroad integrating into a different culture, attending school, and learning new languages.
 
Have a child or grandchild wanting to go abroad? Considering hosting?
 
Join the info session: September 27 2022 7-8pm - Link 
 
 
 
Global Grant Scholarship Opportunity
Rotary District 6270 is pleased to announce the availability of a Global Grant Scholarship for matriculation in the fall of 2023 or spring of 2024.
 
The amount of the scholarship is USD $30,000 and must be used for graduate school studies outside the United States. NOTE: Applicant cannot be a Rotarian or be related to a Rotarian but can be a member of Rotaract.  To be eligible, applicant must be a resident in the geographical area of District 6270, be a student at a college/university in the geographical area of District 6270, or have strong ties to Southeast Wisconsin (see District 6270 map).  Experience (professional or volunteer) in the field of study is required. All fellowship/scholarship/stipend funding opportunities must relate to one of Rotary’s Seven Areas of Focus.
 
Deadlines are as follow:
 
September 1, 2022 – Application form available
January 13, 2023 – Complete Application Deadline (submit online only)
February 4, 2023 - In-Person or Zoom Interviews scheduled. An in-person interview is preferred.
February 13, 2023 – Successful Scholar Notified (for matriculation in 2023-2024 academic year.)
 
Click here to access the “Scholarships” page on the D-6270 web site for detailed information, the application form, and other supporting documents. Address any inquiries to Larry Myers, Chair of the D-6270 Scholarships Subcommittee (Email: scholarshipchair@rotary6270.org OR lwmyers2@att.net).
Read more...
Common Hope Partnership & Walk 
On September 16th, 2022 the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) was visited virtually by Krista Rivard of Common Hope. 
 
           
 
She shared with us that the ERC's donations go toward covid relief, daily living personal goods, and their school. The donations from club members cover the tuition of 20 students, who are all pictured above. When students graduate and begin in a profession, their wage is usually able to raise their family out of poverty. 
 
The Common Hope presentation was coordinated with the ERC's Common Hope walk which happened the following day (9/17) at Mitchell Park. The walk not only raises funds, but also raises awareness of ERC's annual trip to Guatemala which will happen February 5th-12th. If anyone is interested in joining the group of 9 Rotarians and spouses already enrolled, please talk with Erik Moser to learn more about the trip. 
 
If you think learning and contributing to international issues sounds interesting, check out a 7a Friday meeting. If you'd like to do more international volunteer work, the Elmbrook Rotary Club may be just what you are looking for. 
Updates From the District 6270 Website

Here are some updated from the District 6270 website https://rotary6270.org/ that you might enjoy: 

Info Session Scheduled for Rotary Youth Exchange

Our fall Virtual Information Night for the Rotary Youth Exchange program is scheduled for 7pm on Tuesday, September 27th. This is meant to be an info night for students who are interested in the program. Rotarians and others who would like to learn more about the program are welcome to attend as well. 

Please share with youth who may be interested in a study abroad experience, local high schools, newspapers, friends, and others. Please contact Kristine Bantz, Outbound RYE Coordinator with any questions.


 https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwufuygqDksHdRRXwYCqng07uHi5651Wr47

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First Case of Polio in US in Nearly a Decade

The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) has been informed of a case of paralytic polio in an unvaccinated individual in Rockland County, New York, United States.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are coordinating with New York State health authorities on their investigation. Initial sequencing confirmed by CDC indicates that the case is type 2 VDPV.

Any form of poliovirus anywhere is a threat to children everywhere. It is critical that the GPEI Polio Eradication Strategy 2022-2026 is fully resourced and fully implemented everywhere, to ensure a world free of all forms of poliovirus can be achieved.

We are calling on every single Rotarian to take action and be a part of the fight to end polio, helping to raise $50 million per year for polio eradication.

New PolioPlus Society in Rotary District 6270

New PolioPlus Society in Rotary District 6270

Rotary District 6270 is excited to announce the start of the PolioPlus Society in our district.  This is a district program to recognize those Rotarians, Rotaractors, and friends of Rotary, who have pledged to give at least $100 annually to the PolioPlus Fund of The Rotary Foundation, until the wild poliovirus is no longer endemic around the world. The goal of this PolioPlus Society is to raise awareness and provide recognition for Rotary’s goal of eliminating the disease from the planet. 

We would like to invite you to consider and join the Rotary District 6270 PolioPlus Society by completing the pledge form on the PolioPlus Society page, https://rotary6270.org/sitepage/polioplus-society.  Members of the Rotary District 6270 PolioPlus Society will receive a certificate and a specially designed PolioPlus Society lapel pin.

Stay up to date with all things Rotary at: https://rotary6270.org/

Rotary "Cleans Up" at the Brookfield Farmer's Market
The  ERC likes to split our giving between time and treasure.
 
Since July 2nd, various Rotarians from our club have been volunteering each Saturday late morning to collect excess produce from vendors to donate to the Salvation Army.
 
Last Saturday Bill & Fe Petterson collected 251 pounds of produce bringing our 2022 summer (to-date) total to 2,137 pounds! This is a tremendous outcome that came about from a handful of people being creative around saving food, and putting in the effort to make it happen. 
 
Thank you to everyone who spent a Saturday morning at the Farmer's Market this Summer. We'll be back again in December for the Brookfield German Holiday Market. 
Many Ways to Engage Rotary
Rotary can look like a Friday morning breakfast meeting. It can be reading to children, building a home in Guatemala, or remembering to bring in your plastic bags or a few cans of food. 
 
Rotarians and their friends spent time on the 10th biking for a great cause: 
 
 
Please watch the website, check your newsletter, and talk to fellow Rotarians before meetings to find the best way for you to be involved with the Elm Brook Rotary Club! 
Upending Alzheimer's Disease
On September 9, Tim Harrington & Anne Marie Pilot (virtual) form the Alzheimers Association stopped by the Machine Shed to share some news and updates around Alzheimer's disease. 
 
Tim shared that both of his parents lived with the disorder which got him active in both awareness and also fundraising to find a cure.
 
A few takeaways are:
  • Dementia is a "blanket term". As there are many kinds of cancer, there are different types of Dementia like Vascular Dementia and Lewy Body Dementia. 
  • The disorder affects the Hippocampus first, which is the region of the brain responsible for "higher thought"
  • There was a 16% increase in death by Alzheimer's during the pandemic, showing a strong correlation with socialization and keeping "sharp"
There wasn't a happy, uplifting end to the talk. There is still no "cure" for Alzheimer disease, yet on-going research provides potential hints to moving this disorder from incurable to treatable. Alz.org provides more information on research, fundraising, and stories of hope. 
the passing of Chuck Steinbach
It is with a heavy heart that I'm writing that Chuck Steinbach, Charter and Honorary Member of the Elmbrook Rotary Club, passed away this week.  He was diagnosed with a brain tumor in November 2021 and succumbed to the cancer August 28, 2022.
 
A gathering will be held at Krause Funeral Home, 21600 West Capitol Drive, Brookfield, Wisconsin, on Friday, September 9, 2022, 4:00 PM – 6:45 PM. Sharing of Memories at 7:00 PM.
 
For more information visit the Krause Funeral Home website at https://www.krausefuneralhome.com/obituary/charles-w-steinbach/
 
The family asks that in lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation, PO Box 1014, Brookfield, WI 53008-1014 or National Brain Tumor Society, 55 Chapel Street Suite 006, Newton, MA 02458.
Elmbrook Rotary August Social 
Each month the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) meets outside our traditional Friday morning meetings for fellowship in the community. On August 8, 2022, several Rotarians met at Greenfield park for stories, laughs, and refreshments. 
 
 
   
 
 
(one may notice, those who provide content get featured in our Club communications :))
 
 
Rotary is all about doing good in our world. At the same time, it's about what we do while we're doing good. Please check us out for a meeting of a social event! 
Wellpoint Community Garden Grand Opening
At 11:00am on August 16th, members of the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) attended a Community Garden Grand Opening Celebration, held at Wellpoint.
 
Program Director Starlet Hayes welcomed the attendees to the event and introduced staff members. Wellpoint President Ann Leinfelder Grove talked about the mission of Wellpoint and vision for the Community Gardens. She acknowledged the Community Garden Committee, Volunteer Staff , Elmbrook Rotary and those who have been instrumental in the garden project; Tony, Jodi and Zachery Consiglio for rototilling the garden plot and for their continued project support.
 
Jack Nelson, a key member of the Wellpoint Board of Directors and member of the garden planning team, received a beautiful piece of art created by children from the community representing the garden project. Jack addressed the attendees, explaining how the project has and continues to develop with the input from the team. He encouraged community members to share any ideas they have for the project.
 
                                 
 
The ceremony was concluded with the unveiling of the Community Garden sign and community children along with Jack and Ann ceremonially turning the first shovels and raking of the soil. Refreshments were served after the ceremony.
 
Wanting to be a larger part of your community? Consider joining the ERC for a 7a breakfast meeting and learning about this and other opportunities to literally and figuratively get our hands dirty serving others. 
2022 Packer Raffle Winners Drawn 
The winners of the 2022 Packer Ticket Raffle have been drawn. 
 
Thank you everyone who  participated. This raffle raised thousands of dollars which will go directly back into the Elmbrook and surrounding communities via grants, donations, and raising awareness of great causes local and internationally. 
 
Winners of 2 tickets for each game are as follows:
 
               
Date   OpponentWinner   
18-Sep 
Bears
 Mark Zalewski
2-Oct
   Patriots   
Tom Michalski
16-Oct
   Jets   
Becky Kirchen
13-Nov
Cowboys
Ralph Gould
17-Nov
Titans
Dustin Schilz
19-Dec
Rams
 
Tim Nethery
1-Jan
Vikings
 
Ted Blum
8-JanLionsAlexa Zastrow
           
 
If you have not been contacted by a Rotary member or the Club itself, please reach out to David Irwin: dwi2020@outlook.com to solidify the pick up of your prize. 
Nature in our backyard
On September 2, 2022 Eddee Daniel of A Wealth Of Nature visited the Elmbook Rotary Club (ERC) to share how this program is promoting the outdoors in our communities. 
 
Eddee is on a 2+ year project to capture pictures, write ups, and park information for all of the county and state parks, preserves and sanctuaries in South Eastern Wisconsin. He shared stories of exploring and talked at length about some of our more storied treasures like the Ice Age trail and Lapham's Peak. 
 
If you'd like to plan your next adventure in a S.E. Wisconsin park, please use this website to begin your research: https://awealthofnature.org/
 
If you'd like to spend more time with people wanting to keep S.E. Wisconsin a great place to live, join us for a 7a Friday breakfast meeting! 
Bringing some Class to the ERC
On August 19, 2022 the Elm Grove Rotary (ERC) was introduced to the Carolyn Korona & Anne Harberg of the Elm Grove Lifelong Learning. 
 
Aging is a combination of staying active mentally, as well as social, physically and spiritually. The lifelong learners aim to provide opportunities to exercise many of those aspects at once.
 
The wide ranging class topics include everything from wildflowers to Nazi POW, home cooking to chair yoga, Antarctic expedition to Civil War nursing... here is the link to learn more and sign up for a discussion:
https://www.egs4ll.org/
 
Classes run October 3 - November 8 2022. $10/ class or $65 unlimited classes
Bridge Builders Inc - Transforming Neighborhoods Block by Block 
On August 12, 2022 the Elmbook Rotary Club (ERC) was visited by Kurt Owens of Bridge Buiders Inc. 
 
Kurt talked about the ground up approach Bridge Builders uses to empower the people of the communities they serve block by block vs. relying solely on governance. The ways they are empowering the communities they serve is by keeping good housing stock, leveraging the available workforce, dovetailing efforts with other non-profits, create full time neighbors, and revive community owned businesses. 
 
Their current project is raising funds to buy 20 homes and make them "Lighthouse" properties, or properties where a full time neighbor who is dedicated to the community lives. 
 
To learn more, please visit their website: https://bridgebuildersmke.org/ and to learn more about Rotary, please join us for a 7a meeting. 
Adopt A Highway

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

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

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

Elmbrook Rotary Club Assembly
On August 5, 2022 the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) held an assembly to reflect on how the club is upholding the 4 way test of what we think, and do. We looked for ways we can provide a better Rotary experience for everyone, and enjoy our own time with Rotary all the more.  
 
The common themes were finding more ways to get to know Rotarians, both in meetings and outside of them. We also had calls for better communication on upcoming service projects and working professional programing our presentations. 
 
Our breakout sessions allowed us to identify opportunities to grow as a club, as well as offer solutions to our concerns. 
 
Please stay tuned for meeting time and place where all ERC members are encouraged to help us Image a 2022-2023 Rotary year. Members will work though these and other items, and work to be intentional in making this Rotary year one to remember. 
 
ERC Awards Scholarships
The Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) is active in many different areas of our community. Sometimes there are projects at the Women’s Center we can help with. Other times Rotarians will commit to weekly volunteering and helping students with their literacy skills. Today’s report is on seeds (scholarships), that we hope will bloom into impactful careers.  The ERC awarded 3 scholarships to worthy recipients.
 
A $1000 scholarship paid each year for four years went to Sarah Astley from Brookfield Central High School who will attend UW- Stevens Point.A $1000 scholarship paid each year for four years went to Adriga Bhattacharyya from Brookfield East who will attend UW- Milwaukee.A $1000 scholarship paid each year for two years went to Charles Benjamin Fleming who will attend Waukesha County Technical College. This scholarship is specific to a student entering a two year program in a field that relates to a First Responder status. The scholarship is funded by Elmbrook Rotary Club to honor the 40+ years of service that retired Fire Chief William (Bill) Selzer gave to the Elmbrook Community.Dr. Thomas Arndt, President of the Elmbrook Rotary Club presented all three scholarships at the respective school’s Senior Honors Night at the end of the school year.
 
If getting involved with any area of our community is of interest, please reach out us via our website: https://elmbrookrotary.org/. Membership info is under the join tab.  
ERC Announces Total Charitable Contributions 2021 - 2022 
The Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) ended it's 2021-2022 fiscal year on June 30th, 2022. This was the completion of a year where we saw in- person meetings return, favorite projects and events renewed, and new service opportunities surface. This year has pulled our club together, and we had lots to celebrate. 
 
Service projects are a big part of what the ERC does each year. The other facet is the charitable contributions our members and community leaders make. These donations are raised by a mixture of fundraising events such as Spikes for Tykes, a silent auction, and our upcoming fundraiser, and the upcoming raffle for Packers tickets to home games in 2022. 
 
In 2021 - 2022 the ERC had one of the largest donation totals in recent memory. The $154,514.62 reflects both the efficacy of fundraising efforts, and also the size of the club's heart. The club often added several hundred more dollars to a donation when the "hat gots passed" to help out. 
 
 
The ERC is grateful for the  opportunity to strengthen those around us, both with service effort, and with intentional donation. 
 
If you are interested in connecting with our local Rotarians, getting involved in a service project, or donating to a cause that  is special to you, please connect with our membership chair John Allen at jallen@jallengroup.com. 
Addressing Anger with Serenity 
On July 15, the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) welcomed Kenneth Ginlack, CEO of Serenity Inns of Milwaukee.
 
Ken shared that being in long term and active recovery himself, his experiences have allowed him to connect personally with the men at Serenity Inns. As he's counseled hundreds of recovering addicts, he's found that pain and anger are the triggers which lead most people to relapse. He's also noticed that so much of their anger and pain are tied to early childhood episodes of abuse. Although what happened can't be changed, the staff at Serenity Inns works to help the men to use different coping mechanisms to work though the hurt. 
 
The work Serenity Inns does is emotional and frustrating at times, but it is also leading people back to a productive life and a hopeful future. 
 
If you are interested in getting involved, the men's evening meal is completely dependent on donations. People will make a meal, come to the home and have dinner with the staff and men in recovery. If you are interested in learning more, please connect with them at: http://serenityinns.org/
2022-2023 Changing of the Guard 
On June 29, 2022, the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) held it's annual celebration, the Changing of the Guards. This ceremony offers thanks and gratitude to the resigning president, and promotes current members to move up the leadership ranks. 
 
This year we celebrated Thom Arndt as he wrapped his 4 years of service, the last presiding as president. Thom's goals were to bring more hands-on projects to our club. That led to a highway clean up commitment, several Habitat for Humanity builds, and an in person Spikes event this Spring. Thank you Thom for your leadership.
 
Moving up through our leadership ranks, Harry Farchmin will serve as our president in the 2022/2023 Rotary campaign. Chris Spresser will be our Vice President, and Tom Steinbach will act as our Secretary. Joining the leadership seats this year is Dave Engel at Sargent-at-Arms. 
 
 
A big thank you also to Mark Zalewski and Gordy Miller for overseeing the responsibilities of club treasurer and foundation treasurer respectively. 
 
Rotary is a collection of people who understand that change starts with us. By following the 4 Way Test, we all work to build our community in the way that best fits our skills and interests. Please consider joining us for a breakfast meeting in our 2022-2023 Rotary year. 
Avalanche of Paul Harris Award Winners

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

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

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

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

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

Ukrainian Relief updates

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

How we are taking action: (click for video)

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

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

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

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

Thanks for Making "Spikes" a Success 
Prep and Tear down
 
No event can be a success without lots of working planning ahead of time and dedicated people on site early to prep and make sure the day gets started well.
 
 
We also needed volunteers willing to stay afterward to clean up, pack up, and keep going after everyone had their fun . . .
 
 
and last but not least... friends & neighbors to come celebrate a great Rotary year and a strong Spikes for Tykes event!
 
 
Thank you to all the Rotarians and their families for the effort that went into this year's event. It was great to be back among our members and our Elmbrook community!
 
Don't forget the online "Silent Auction," which begins on June 22, as part of the annual "Spikes for Tykes" fundraising effort.
 
Spikes for Tykes 2022
The Elmbrook Rotary Club's "Spikes for Tikes" annual fundraising drive experienced one of its culminating events on Saturday, June 4.
 
The June 4th in-person wrap-up was a volleyball event held at Mitchell Park in Brookfield. Approximately 20 teams from the community played an hour of volleyball and learned more about Rotary. Each playing team received six (6) long-sleeve commemorative T-shirts. A cash raffle added to the funds raised, and both food and drinks were available for purchase.
 
Enjoy the photos from the June 4th wrap-up, snapped by ERC member Erik Moeser, by clicking here.
 
"Spikes for Tikes" is the club's largest fundraising event and is the main way the club creates funds to donate into our community. If you wonder about where the money goes, check out this PDF which lists the 2020-2021 charitable donations of Elmbrook Rotary Club and its Foundation. It's impressive!
 
If your school, company, or place of worship missed the event this year, please reach out to one of the Elmbrook Rotarians. We'd love to get you involved in "Spikes '23" and also introduce you to the ways we're serving our community through Rotary. 
 
The fundraising effort continues through the club's "Changing of the Guard" event at the same location (Mitchell Field, Brookfield) on June 29. Connected with that event will also be a "Silent Auction," proceeds of which will be added to the "Spikes for Tykes" totals. The online portion of the "Silent Auction" will begin on June 22—lots of treasures, goodies, and experiences to win (for the right bid)!
Building Media Relations 
On 27 May, Trish Nitschke of the Center for Business Communication Excellence met with the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) to share ideas on how to make one's brand more visible. Take-aways that can be used for business or personal branding are:
  • Build relationships with local news people. Share 3-5 stories each year with them
  • Make stories compelling and easy to understand, with visuals packaged ahead of time if possible 
  • Many mediums are available to leverage: 
    • Local news
    • Podcasts
    • Social media 
As the ERC continues to attract new members from all areas of our community, it was a treat to have Trish share top ideas around branding. Because these strategies are readily available for growing businesses and personal brands, there is carryover to how ERC can leverage these strategies to grow awareness of our club and increase the impact we make. 
 
Please consider bringing a friend to our next 7:00 a.m.  breakfast meeting to hear great speakers like Trish! 
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.