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Club Information
Welcome to our Club!
Elmbrook (Brookfield)
We Rise & Shine
Fridays at 7:00 AM
Western Racquet Club
1800 Highland Drive
Elm Grove, WI 53122
United States of America
Attendance also possible via Zoom.
DistrictSiteIcon
District Site
VenueMap
Venue Map
Upcoming Events
Rotary Straight Shooters - December 15 Shotgun Outing
Waukesha Gun Club
Dec 15, 2022
4:30 PM – 7:00 PM
 
Jan Social: Trivia Night
Jan 26, 2023
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
 
ERC & Foundation BoD meeting
Zoom
Jan 31, 2023
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
 
View entire list
Speakers
Dec 16, 2022 7:00 AM
Update on WRC renovation plan/impacts and benefits for ERC meetings
Dec 23, 2022 7:00 AM
Elmbrook Rotary Holiday Program
Dec 30, 2022
Enjoy the Holidays with family and friends!
Jan 06, 2023 7:00 AM
Updates from ERC Club Committees/Major Fundraiser kickoff
Jan 13, 2023 7:00 AM
Elmbrook School District Annual Update
Jan 27, 2023 7:00 AM
Ronald McDonald House - Eastern WI chapter updates and new developments
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 4, 2022
9am - 2pm
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
2020-2021 ERF Charitable Contributions
Teams & Team Members
Rotary RSS Feed

Learn how Rotary clubs are taking action in the United States, Mexico, Germany, Italy, and India.

 

Backed by Rotary’s Programs of Scale award, Partners for a Malaria-Free Zambia confronts a worldwide malady at the local level

 

A club in Washington’s wine country uses a novel approach to keep glass out of the landfill.

 

Leveraging expertise with AshokaRotary’s partnership with Ashoka brings together the vision of Ashoka’s social entrepreneurs with the local expertise of Rotary members to inspire innovation that can solve problems, create leaders, and

 

During the COVID-19 pandemic's initial U.S. wave in 2020, Detroit, Michigan, was one of many cities where first responders and medical personnel needed more personal protective equipment. A Rotary club in India learned about the situation and contacted its longtime partner, the Rotary Club of

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

Learn how Rotary clubs are taking action in the United States, Mexico, Germany, Italy, and India.

 

Backed by Rotary’s Programs of Scale award, Partners for a Malaria-Free Zambia confronts a worldwide malady at the local level

 

A club in Washington’s wine country uses a novel approach to keep glass out of the landfill.

 
Executives & Directors
President
 
President Elect
 
Secretary
 
Treasurer
 
Executive Secretary / Director
 
Community Service Chair
 
International Service Chair
 
Sergeant-at-Arms
 
Vocational Service Chair
 
Immediate Past President
 
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.
Stories
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 
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! 
December Birthdays & Anniversaries
 
 
"To appreciate the beauty of a snowflake it is necessary to stand out in the cold." - Aristotle
 
 
Please join the Elmbrook Rotary Club in celebrating our esteemed member Birthdays and Anniversaries in December.
 
Happy Birthday! Wishing a wonderful year of good health, happiness, and success to our members:
  • Greg Bonk
  • Jackson Bubolz
  • Jennifer Cagle
  • Lydia Miller
  • Lisa Molsbee
  • Bill Petterson
  • Carol White
ERC also recognizes the following membership anniversaries:
  • Sherry Fontaine, 1 year
  • Lydia Miller, 1 year
  • Jackie Radomski, 3 years
  • Kate Bloomberg, 8 years
  • Steven Ponto, 12 years
  • Bill Bulloch, 19 years
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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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November Birthdays & Anniversaries
 
 
Please join the Elmbrook Rotary Club in celebrating our esteemed member Birthdays and Anniversaries in November.
 
 
“There is music in the meadows, in the air —
Autumn is here;
Skies are gray, but hearts are mellow…”
William Stanley Braithwaite
 
Happy Birthday! Wishing a wonderful year of good health, happiness, and success to our members:
 
  • Raul Arredondo
  • Donald Black
  • Jim Dunn
  • Fred Gettelman
  • Doug Hafemann
  • Bill Selzer
  • Ted Wentzel
 
ERC also recognizes the following membership anniversaries:
 
  • Yusuf Quereshi, 1 year
  • Karyn Youso, 3 year
  • Andrew McCully, 7 years
  • Chris Spresser, 10 years
  • Linda Wickstrom, 27 years
Read more...
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. 
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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. 
 
     
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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. 
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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).
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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. 
Discovering the Town of Brookfield 
On July 22, the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) welcomed Anna Antoine, Town of Brookfield Tourism Director.
 
Anna outlines the areas where City of Brookfield & Town of Brookfield meet, and let us know of the coming accommodations to the area. Wimmer Properties is extending their luxury apartments on the corner of Barker & Bluemound and on that same intersection a Tribute by Marriot will be completed by 2024.  
 
Ms. Antoine also updated us on upcoming events at the Corners like their food truck festival and Brooktoberfest.  
   
                       
 
If you would like to get the Town of Brookfield newsletter, click here
 
If you would like to learn all of this information first hand, please join us for a Friday morning meeting. 
Help Requested for 2022 Packer Raffle 
Service clubs are built around volunteering time in a community to strengthen it, and to donate funds to organizations, allowing them to do their work more effectively. 
 
This is an opportunity to partake in both aspects of service!
 
Our Saturday mornings 7:30a-12p, there is a Farmer's Market in Brookfield (16900 Gebhardt Rd, Brookfield, WI)
 

At that Farmers Market the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) will be both selling raffle tickets for the Packer's home games this season, as well as sharing what Rotary is, how we help our community, and how interested folks can get involved. 
 
Volunteering for this project allows the opportunity to grow our club and grow relationships inside our club, as well as collect proceeds from the raffle to continue supporting the 40+ organizations the ERC works with. 
 
David Irwin has stepped up to organize and oversee the raffle this year.
 
Please reach out to him with interest and questions. Mike Groth of the Community Service board and Steve Stocker, long time organizer of this event, are also available to answer questions, talk strategy, and share how fun this event is to be a part of! 
Classification talks July 8, 2022
Classification talks are among Rotarian's favorite meeting outlines. A member of the club shares a bit about their past, what drew them to Rotary, and what they are looking forward to accomplishing. On July 8 the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) was fortunate to learn more about Julie Couden & Emily Jones. 
 
 
Julie grew up in New Berlin, traveled the world, and has circled back to where she started. She's always been inquisitive, and she's allowed that curiosity lead her the Wartburg College to pursue a degree in social work. Curiosity then led her to Africa to study health, water, and disease, and then to China to work in tech before landing in her newest adventure... sales. 
 
 
Emily Jones is used to having to think on the fly. As a mom, a teacher, and a black belt, she has to be ready for anything at all times. When she needed to be at work vs. in person for her talk, she flipped over to Zoom and didn't miss a step.
 
Emily studied Spanish abroad in Salamanca, Spain and loves teaching Spanish. She works at Tosa East as a Spanish teacher and enjoys volunteering locally with her church and Rotary, as well donating her time as far away as Costa Rica. A fun fact about Emily is she is the youngest of 11 siblings. 
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. 
2022-2023 Rotary President Jennifer Jones Takes Office 
On July 1, 2022, Rotary Clubs all over the world turned over leadership to the next round of leaders. The 2022 transition is especially notable as Rotary International President Jennifer Jones is the first woman to lead Rotary as President. 
 
In Jennifer's "Imagine" speech from January 2022, she channels John Lennon's famous declaration:
"You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one"
 
She says it's a challenge to all of us to imagine, and also act. Rotarians have imagined a world without polio, a world with clean water, and a world with peace.
 
This Rotary year, imagine what big outcomes we'll realize in the future, from the seemingly small actions, done consistently. 
 
Best of fortunes to President Jennifer Jones, and all the new presidents 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.

An International Focus 
The Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) welcomed two speakers with focus abroad to our June 24th breakfast meeting. 
 
Jennifer Demar of the NGO Guatemala Service Project shared the challenges the Guatemalans have confronted. Recognized as the "Poorest Country in the Western Hemisphere," this developing country has daily challenges many Americans never contemplate. Examples are malnutrition, contaminated water, and lack of access to diapers and other hygiene resources. 
 
The Guatemala Service Project is helping to address these needs with awareness, the collection of donations, and helping anyone who wants to get more involved, do so. 
 
 
The second speaker was Rotarian Dick Debe, member of the Mukwonago Rotary Club and former District Governor of Rotary International District 6270. He shared how his club's involvement with Guatemala has led to even more involvement. The Mukwonago RotaryClub has sponsored projects and earned grants to deliver seeds and create farming programs. They've had chickens delivered to Guatemalan communities to create food, or revenue, or both. Rick has gotten the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) involved in clean water initiatives, getting water purification tools to remote communities so they can drink water with confidence. 
 
The ERC shares its focus among many local and several international organizations. ERC donates volunteer time, financial gifts, and insight to programs. The overarching intention is to be a catalyst for positive change. 
 
ERC is always welcoming new members and meets weekly on Fridays at 7:00 a.m. at the Western Racquet Club in Elm Grove. Let a member know if you're curious about joining. 
Pop up Habitat Project 
On June 23, 2022 the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) helped staff a Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity project. Rotarians Mark Zalewski and spouse Evonne Zalelewski joined Jackson Bubolz to round out a group of seven volunteers. They lifted pre-built walls to the second story of a new Habitat home and raised three walls on the second level.
 
Habitat for Humanity is an avenue to give time or treasure for aiding housing issues in Milwaukee. Housing is often the "lead domino" which causes many additional challenges for families such as education, crime, and employment. Habitat works to provide families with affordable housing to help stabilize their expenses for shelter and to stabilize neighborhoods by increasing home ownership.
 
Please connect with Jackson Bubolz if you are interested in taking part of a Habitat build this year. There is high demand for volunteers; so this is a unique way to be active, be involved, and also learn some construction skills! 
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.
 
Shoot to Thrill 

The Elmbrook Rotary Straight Shooters (RI District 6270) enjoyed a joint outing with the Madison Shooting Sports Fellowship (RI District 6250) on Wednesday, June 15, 2022, at the Milford Hills Hunt Club in Johnson Creek, WI.

While It turned out to be the hottest day the year so far, a great time was had by all in meeting new Rotarians and breaking clays over the scenic fields.

After a fun late-afternoon shooting participants learned more about each other in fellowship while enjoying beverages and a meal.

Richard Barnhouse & WCTC
On June 16, 2022, Dr. Richard Barnhouse came to the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) to share the foundation that Waukesha County Technical College WCTC has established as a powerful educational resource in our community and where he sees WCTC's future programming. 
 
Dr. Barnhouse spoke about the two-year applied science degrees offered by WCTC as well as their one-year technical degrees. He explained that nursing and protective services (fire, police, EMT) are still some of their most popular programs, but there are other programs such as cosmetology that are quietly growing . Dental hygienists are in very high demand, if one is looking for a carer, and there are are many open seats in those classrooms.
 
WCTC is used both by individuals in our community and by employers, who provide on-going training for their employees. Dr. Barnhouse insists that WCTC stands among the top two-year schools in the country, and he is excited to continue to build the programs which people in our county need. 
 
If you are interested in taking a class, the enrollment periods are now every four months since WCTC switched from the semester academic system. 
 
Rotary offers engaging speakers, fellowship, and opportunities to give back to our community. Please join us at a 7:00 a.m. Friday breakfast meeting at the Western Racquet Club in Elm Grove. 
Rotary Response Update for Ukraine
With deep sadness, we feel the plight of Ukraine and its people.  When someone is suffering, we reach out to help. Rotary International, a service organization, is doing just that and is calling us to help those in need. The Rotary Foundation (TRF) moved quickly to provide grant funds for the relief effort in Ukraine and for those fleeing to other countries.
 
The Rotary Disaster Response Fund has received more than USD $15 million through June 8, 2022. Any contributions made after April 30 are being used by the Disaster Response Fund for disasters throughout the world and not just Ukraine.
 
The Elmbrook Rotary Foundation (ERF) Board of Directors agreed to match individual Rotarian contributions up to USD $15,000. In the past months our Elmbrook Rotary Foundation has sent more than $34,000 to The Rotary Foundation Disaster Response Fund to support relief efforts in Ukraine and the Ukraine refugees. This includes member contributions and the full $15,000 ERF match.
 
Thank you so much to everyone that has donated! This is a great response, and we can all feel proud of our Elmbrook Rotary Club!
 
Thus far, some USD $3.3 million have been released through district grants to assist with relief efforts in Ukraine and with Ukrainian refugees. Soon after the Russian invasion began, Czech and Slovak Rotarians assisted in opening a train corridor to get much needed supplies into Ukraine. You can read about that ongoing effort by clicking here or on the photo below.
 
 
Numerous other examples exist. Rotarians and Rotaractors throughout the world are responding and acting. Read the stories here! ERC members who attended the RI Convention in Houston, TX, report that, in the Parade of Flags, the blue-and-yellow flag of Ukraine received a standing, thunderous ovation from the thousands of attendees. Help keep the tragedy of Ukraine front and center for both Rotary and the public in general. 
A Look into the 2022 RI Convention 
 
News from the Rotary International Convention 
 
Fellow Elmbrook Rotarians Tom Curl, Harry Farchmin, Tom Hochuli, and their spouses attended the RI Convention in Houston, TX, taking in all of the sights, sounds, experiences, and relationships at the largest gathering of Rotarians in the world. 
 
Charlie Duke, retired astronaut (see story screenshot above), talked about the need for our communities to work together as space missions were compelled to do.
Tom Hochuli has shared pictures of events on opening day, including one of a Texan telling a very interesting story about (or to) his armadillo (see photo below).
 
                                        
 
This convention is held each year and is open to any interested Rotarian. Mate, next year's convention will be held in Melbourne Australia. 
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)!
Purposeful Higher Ed - LAUNCH of Elmbrook 
The Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) has consistently focused on enhancing the opportunities of the students in our community. The LAUNCH program of Elmbrook has been a wonderful way to focus time and resources back into the high schools in our immediate school districts.
 
On 31 May, the ERC sponsored a large conference room block for the LAUNCH program's "Watch It Live" so their students could showcase what their semester's efforts had created. 
 
The LAUNCH program represents over 400 sophomores, juniors, and seniors from the Elmbrook and Wauwatosa School Districts. Student are grouped into interest "strands" such as global business, future teachers, business analytics, media solution, IT, engineering, healthcare solutions, manufacturing, and several other options. Student groups are paired up with mentors from related industries to receive insight and training from beyond the school's walls. Each mentor brings a real life "problem statement" from their business to the project. The student's job is to solve the problem through their own resources and rely on the mentor for guidance during challenges or confusion. 
 
 
Areas in which a Rotarian can get involved are:
  • Launch needs guest coaches each semester to listen to their problem statement, review their current progress, and provide feedback. This is a 90-minute commitment each session, and there are no minimum/maximum sessions in which one must be involved.
  • Launch needs interviewers. Each semester LAUNCH provides their students an opportunity to mock-interview with an adult who has real life work experience. This is a few hours commitment once or twice a semester.
  • If your business has projects they aren't getting to, bring those challenges to the LAUNCH program. This requires a weekly commitment of spending an hour with the students, working through the problem statement, and helping them to develop their ideas into real strategies.
Does this sound like a project you might be interested?
 
Please connect with Jack Nelson or Doug Hafemann for more details. If nothing else, please check out the next "Watch It Live" session in the Fall to understand better how our club's time, effort, and funds are serving those around us. 
Read more...
Memorial Day Social 
The Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) loves to help out locally and internationally whenever we can. When not actively serving, many Rotarians enjoy kicking back and relaxing in our community. 
 
On 30 May, ERC members Jeanne & John Allen invited club members and their families to take in the Elm Grove Memorial Day parade from the comfort of their front yard. Food, drinks, and stories were enjoyed all morning and into the afternoon as friendships were deepened along with our appreciation for Rotary. Thank you for hosting, Allens! 
 
Social events, educational breakfast meetings, local volunteer events, and international service trips—Rotary offers something for anyone who wants to be better connected to those among whom we live. 
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! 
Blogging with Alaina Eckert
Alaina Eckert is the current RI District 6270 Global Grant Scholar.
 
These days she is in Panama, doing her internship at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. After completing the internship, she still has a semester of study at Lincoln University New Zealand and a master's thesis to write. Alaina is the first Global Grant Scholar of The Rotary Foundation with the Environment as the Area of Focus.
 
She has created a website, which includes a weekly "blog." Follow her adventures at the following URL:  https://eckeala.wixsite.com/missadventures
 
Highlights of Boards of Directors
The Elmbrook Rotary Foundation (ERC) Board of Directors and the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) Board of Directors met via Zoom on Tuesday, May 24.
 
Among the highlights of the two board meetings were the following:
  • ERF Treasurer Gordy Mueller announced that, as of May 24, more than $39,000 has been raised by the annual Spikes for Tykes fund-raising effort.
  • Approved a Mini-Grant of $1,300 to support the Partners in Hope program of Community Warehouse.
  • Authorized the inclusion of $3,000 in the 2022-2023 budget to support ERC member attendance at the annual TriCon (three-district conference). The maximum would be $250 per attendee, and other parameters will be determined/announced in future months. The next TriCon is scheduled for April 28-29, 2023, in LaCrosse, Wisconsin.
Any ERC member is welcome to attend the meetings of the Board of Directors. Follow this website and the weekly ERC eBulletin for announcement of BoD meetings.
The Women's Center & ERC Go Way Back 
Anyone who has spent time at Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) meetings knows well that the club has deep ties to The Women's Center (TWC). At our May 20th meeting, Jessie Trauth (the TWC Shelter and Housing Programs Director) shared the legacy that compliments our deep connection. 
 
Over the last 30 years, ERC has:
  • Donated over $250,000 to this single organization (making the ERC the largest service club donor in TWC's history)
  • Outfitted sleeping quarters in the shelter
  • Landscaped the campus
  • Painted the interior of property
  • Raised awareness of TWC's services
As Spikes of Tikes, ERC's largest fundraiser, approaches its conclusion, it is important to remind all Rotarians, friends of Rotary, and local businesses that none of the positive and impactful work the ERC does can happen without donations of both time and treasure. We're looking forward to great Spikes for Tikes' results in 2022 and opportunities to continue our work in the community, while hopefully adding an organization or two to support in the 2022/2023 Rotary year.
Friends for Health in Haiti Update 
On May 6 the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) welcomed Dr. Catherine Wolfe, Founder, Executive Director, and Clinical Director for Friends for Health in Haiti. Dr. Wolfe shared how gang violence is intensifying challenges of the pandemic and recent earthquakes. Inflation is leading to hunger being increasingly prevalent. 
 
It's not all bad news though. Through programs like Friends for Health in Haiti, communities are able to get organized and work toward solutions. Leveraging repeatable farming techniques, having consistent education for children, and building solutions for clean drinking water and sanitary latrines are all ways Rotary clubs like ours can help boost the wellbeing of others. 
 
Other recent breakthroughs include installing solar panels at the hospital to deliver days of reliable power. Friends for Health in Haiti is also realizing the superior ability of cinderblock structures to weather storms and earthquakes vs. using rocks or tin materials. They are looking to implement stronger materials whenever possible. 
 
There are also opportunities within the ERC to have donations go further. $2,000 has been matched by an anonymous donor to help Friends for Health in Haiti, making a total USD $4,000+ that was raised to support the agricultural seed project of Friends for Health in Haiti. 
New Members & Stories within the Elmbrook Rotary Club
The Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) had a meeting full of introductions on May 13, 2022. 
 
After visiting a few meetings, Emily Jones & William (Bill) Selzer both decided to join our club. Over the next few months they will hopefully make friends with many Rotarians, as well as better understand the ways they can be involved in local to international efforts. They will have a chance to choose an Avenue of Service that best fits their interests and share their classification talks with us later this year. 
 
Part two of our meeting was hearing classification talks from slightly more seasoned members. 
 
Sherry Fontaine shared that she is not a new Rotarian, having been active in a club in Onalaska, WI, since 2015. She has always been someone who liked adventure. As a college student, her class was only the second to be integrated with both men and women. Although there were some challenges with culture shift, she loved being part of something new and big. She went on to travel and, amid her 30 years in academia, living in London for a stretch was particularly memorable. She focused on instructing Public Health Administration among other areas. 
 
Lydia Miller was born in New Jersey, went to Penn State to learn to teach in special education, and realized that finance was more her speed. Investment banking allowed her to see most of the world, including S.E. Asia and Africa. 
 
The second stage of Lydia's journey has been focusing on her two almost adult children, ages 17 & 14. Although they keep her "on her toes," they also have rooted her to the area, allowing our club the benefit of having her as a member. Lydia promises there any many stories she would love to tell in a smaller setting; so look for her at an upcoming social or volunteer event. 
 
Tom Michalski has called this area home for a long time. He graduated from Greenfield, studied at UW-Milwaukee, and took a staff role at Marquette, which turned out to be a 30-year post. 
 
Tom's experience in life is that things just work out. They might not make sense in the moment, but if we keep showing up, things will work out just as they are supposed to. Tom is leveraging his decades of experience in our community, both as a new Rotarian and also as a civil servant with hopes of growing positive impacts locally. 
Read more...
New Hope School Guatemala Project
         Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) has sent teams to Guatemala in February of every year since 2012 to work with Common Hope. Common Hope is a St. Paul-based NGO, offering housing, medical, social, and educational services.  In 2021 and 2022 the trips were cancelled due to the global pandemic. Because the clients whom Common Hope serves are largely unvaccinated, one way to continue helping has been remotely via Zoom and email.
 
         In 2021 Elmbrook Rotary (assisted by a grant from Rotary International District 6270) provided books, supplemental materials, desks, and supplies for students in the remote village of San Miguel Milpas Altas. The school was experiencing high failure rates. This year the aid was focused on the New Hope community near Guatemala CIty, founded 21 years ago by Common Hope after a disastrous mudslide. The school was built five years later. It was a from-the-ground-up effort to create a model to be emulated in other places over the ensuing years. Teachers were provided with six Dell PCs and peripheral equipment, replacing obsolete technology and enabling them to provide enhanced online learning experiences. This will continue until the Ministry of Education in Guatemala authorizes a return to in-person school attendance.
 
Elmbrook Rotary Club members will again travel to Guatemala in February of 2023 to catch up with onsite work related to the two remotely-provided projects, return to the usual home building, and participate in other program elements to aid families. Contact ERC member Erik Moeser for more information and for details on the February 2023 trip.
Getting Kids Fit - Physically & Scholastically
On April 29 the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) was visited virtually by Marcellus Dawson of Fit Club MKE. 
 
Marcellus shared how their programming teaches children the rules and details of sports like baseball and golf, and to be added soon, soccer and yoga.
 
The players receive a baseball glove when they begin the program together with opportunities to study school and sports on campus. On top of sports training, Fit Club MKE also provides children's books for members to take home, building their literacy along with their home library.
 
Marcellus shared that the best part of the program is seeing kids come in with apprehension and uncertainty and leave knowing they can play a game well and be part of this sports and education club. 
 
Fit Club MKE is currently in a growth and transition stage, adding programming while also seeking out donations to build a new facility. They are wanting to bring these types of education / athletics / community engagement directly to the players' neighborhoods. The link above provides an opportunity to donate to this organization if so moved. 
 
Bikes for Stripes
Last year Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) embarked on sponsoring a new local endeavor by providing a Mini-Grant to the "Bikes for Stripes" program of the Milwaukee Homeless Veterans Initiative (MHVI).
 
On Friday, April 25, the club received a briefing about this program by MHVI Executive Director Debbie Buchanan in its Zoom-only meeting (necessitated by installation of a new HVAC system at the Western Racquet Club). She was joined by West Allis Rotarian Dan Kasun, who coordinates the "Bikes for Stripes" effort.
 
Ms. Buchanan also shared the mission and purpose objectives of MHVI, and Dan Kasun not only described the details of "Bikes for Stripes" but also provided information on how to get involved. For example, the Rotary Club of West Allis will hold  a volunteer opportunity on May 7 to support the Bikes for Stripes program.
 
Check out the follow URLs to glean more information and to volunteer:
 
 
 
 
 
Millennial Action Plan (MAP)
Steven Olikara, Brookfield native & US Senate hopeful, spent time with the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC). He is a member of the Millennial Action Plan (MAP), and shared his love of music, politics, and his motivation to have our community and state work together for a better future. 
 
Steven shared how the political strategies of outrage culture, arms-race-style funding for campaigns, and demonization of opponents are poisoning our political climate. Steven sees Final 5 voting, listening to opposition with intent to understand, and resident-based government as today's biggest areas for opportunity. 
 
A musician himself, Olikara insists that to make good jazz, all musicians must play together, building off each other's strengths, and listening to what's happening around them. Time will tell if that strategy has a place in American government. 
ERC Helps Build
Habitat for Humanity is another example of how Elmbrook Rotary Club members give back to the community.
 
On Thursday, April 7, seven ERC Rotarians and one guest Rotarian joined a Habitat for Humanity team to build a new home located at 3466 N. 2nd Street, Milwaukee, WI. 
 
This build entailed framing the home and moving prebuilt walls from ground level to the second story. The volunteers measured, raised, and secured walls on the second story. The home is now ready for trusses and a roof before work on the interior begins. 
 
                         
 
 
 
            
 
 
Thanks to ERC members Mark Thurner, Lucas Severson, Tom Curl, guest Rotarian Paul Turner, John & Pati Allen, Patti Allen Brickman, & Mike Groth for a job well done!
 
If you have interest in participating but haven't yet, please reach out to the ERC Community Service group so that they can determine interest in a third build in as many months. 
Local Options for Assisted Living 
On April 8 the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) was visited by Shannon Angell, CEO, of St. Camillus. St. Camillus is one of the largest independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities in our area. 
 
She shared information about the new residence building, newly completed, as well as insights on amenities, package options, and pricing. 
 
Shannon is one of the dozens of local guests the ERC hosts each year to keep our members up-to-date on community progress, aware of planned changes, and understanding what service opportunities are available to our members. 
 
Please join us for a 7:00 a.m. meeting any Friday! 
Elmbrook Rotary Fieldtrip 
Because the Western Racquet Club was under maintenance, the Elmbrook Rotary club visited the Sharon Lynn Wilson Center for the Arts on Friday March 25. 
 
We heard about the upcoming theater season, including plans for Starry Nights, and we received a tour of the facility.
 
We also received a surprise! The Sharon Lynn Wilson Center wanted to make a special gesture to our club, a driving force in fund raising before, during, and after the Center's 1994 opening. They revealed a large inscription, "Elmbrook Rotary Fireside Lounge," appearing between the northern etched windows in the lobby and honoring the club's efforts in making the Center a reality. 
 
 
 
Upcoming "Starry Nights" events on the Center's outdoor grounds are sure to be a staple of our club's social events this summer. 
 
 
Classification Talks 3.18.2022
A recurring theme in the Elmbrook Rotary Club is how much we love classification talks. Rotarians love these presentations because we're able to hear a 5-10 minute talk from a member about their life.
 
We hear antidotes, ah ha moments, and some really funny stories. Our trio of presenters at the 3/18/22 meeting were a great example of why. 
 
Rick Chabot shared with us the differences in cost of commonly purchased items from the year he was born to share some of the change he's seen. He's been very involved in Boy Scouts and Rotary, and his advice from 32 years in Rotary is to visit other clubs and engage in international programs. 
 
David Irwin is a new member with a history of travel. He spent some time growing up in Europe and travels often for work. Business and the affairs of the world are a few of his leisure activities. He has two high schoolers at Brookfield East.
 
Yusuf Quereshi is another new member, and wanted to get involved with a service group because of the example his parents and grandparents set. Yusuf likes spending time at local parks all the way up to the National parks. He also really likes numbers and enjoys his role as an actuarial accountant. 
 
 
2021 Business Person of the Year
The Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) recently announced Phil Landry, Owner of C3E Geomatics,LLC, as the recipient of the 5th annual Business Person of the Year Award. The program recognizes the leadership and accomplishments of a successful Brookfield or Elm Grove individual.
 
In a span of five years, Phil completed his bachelor’s degree and founded C3E Geomatics, LLC, a land surveying company, in 2017. Community support, sharing, and mentoring have been a significant part of Phil’s life and career. This includes being a supporter of the Community Warehouse, an organization designed to support background-challenged individuals by providing employment, job skills, and practical housing support. Phil also supports Partners in Hope, a faith-based community reentry program for ex-offenders, run by Community Warehouse. C3E Geomatics is also writing a custom career packet about land surveying for The Community, another organization working to aid offenders in their career decisions long before release. Currently, C3E Geomatics provides financial support to these organizations. The long-term goal is to be able to offer employment opportunities and mentorship to the individuals served by these organizations.
 
Phil founded the business with the goal of helping ex-offenders because he himself served a two-year prison sentence. During his time of incarceration, Phil came to understand that he needed to make a radical change in his life so that he wouldn’t end up in prison again. Even with Phil’s careful planning for his release (including enrolling in a university, arranging for a place to live, and applying for financial aid), he still needed the additional support of community organizations and a local church in order to get established on the right path. Because he understands the tremendous hurdles that ex-offenders face when released back into society, he feels committed to supporting released offenders in the greater Milwaukee area.
 
Pictured (left to right):
Ralph Gould (Chair of the ERC selection committee),
Tom Michalski (Trustee of Village of Elm Grove,
Waukesha County Board Supervisor,
and selection committee member),
Phil Landry (2021 awardee),
& Dr. Thom Arndt (ERC President).
 
In order to continue growing the business he founded in 2017, Phil needed to gain professional licensure in the state of Wisconsin. However, he faced numerous obstacles in this process because of his criminal record. Working with a local assembly member as an advocate, Phil finally obtained licensure and has been able to grow C3E Geomatics from a revenue of $65,000 in 2017 to $385,000 in 2020. The business is projected to make well over $500,000 in 2021.
 
Phil loves to share his story, particularly with ex-offenders and other marginalized groups, in order to encourage them not to give up when they are pursuing employment, education, and a successful quality of life.
 
Elmbrook Rotary Club is pleased to be able to honor Phil Landry with its 2021 Business Person of the Year award.
 
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).]
Read more...
At ELMBROOK ROTARY - We Rise & Shine!
 
When we say "WE RISE & SHINE” to others, it means:
  • WE RISE to meet early every Friday.
  • WE RISE to the occasion by helping those in need.
  • WE RISE to make a difference in our community and the world.
     
  • WE SHINE by living the Rotary 4-way Test.
  • WE SHINE by staying positive and encouraging others.
  • WE SHINE by lighting the way for service above self in Brookfield, Elm Grove, and beyond.
The tagline appears on our Coffee Mugs, on our Web site, on club emails, and on other communications going out. Try using the tagline the next time you’re talking to someone about Elmbrook Rotary or Rotary in general. In fact, consider purchasing an Elmbrook Rotary Coffee Mug for $7.
What Is Rotary?
How do others perceive Rotary and what we do?
 
Enjoy this humorous video about what Rotary really is. Click me to view!
 
Filmed in 2017 in the Fargo-Moorhead area (North Dakota Minnesota border region), where there are five Rotary Clubs. Video was supported by Rotary District 5580.