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.
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.
Personal Growth and Development: Membership in Rotary continues one's growth and education in human relations and personal development.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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."
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.
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).]
On Friday, July 30, Sara Eskrich, Executive Director of Democracy Found, provided a thought-stimulating and question-provoking overview of the concept of "Final Five Voting."
Democracy Found is a Wisconsin-based initiative committed to revitalizing democracy. The organization argues that implementing Final-Five Voting (a system wherein the top five candidates are selected from the primary ballot and instant runoff voting is used in the general election) will ensure that politicians are held accountable for delivering results. A bill on Final-Five Voting is currently being considered in the Wisconsin legislative chambers.
The concept of Final-Five Voting is explored and explained in The Politics Industry (available on Amazon), a book by path-breaking political innovator Katherine Gehl and business strategist Michael Porter. They apply the tools of business analysis—and Porter's distinctive Five Forces framework—to show how the political system functions just as every other competitive industry does, and how the duopoly has led to the outcomes we see today.
Using this competition lens, Gehl and Porter identify the most powerful lever for change—a strategy comprised of a clear set of choices in two key areas: how our elections work and how we make our laws. The Politics Industry hopes to open eyes to the true dynamics and profound challenges of the American political system and provide real solutions for reshaping the system for the benefit of all.
NFL training camps are starting this week, Aaron Rodgers is back, and Elmbrook Rotary is kicking off our 6th Annual Green Bay Packers Ticket Raffle Fundraiser at this Friday's club meeting on July 30!
Beginning with the Friday meeting on August 6, and continuing through Saturday, September 4, volunteers are needed to help sell and hand out tickets before club meetings and at the Brookfield Farmers Market on Saturday mornings. Sign up sheets will be available to solicit volunteers.
Raffle winners will be drawn at the ERC meeting on September 10. Each winner receives two tickets to one of eight Packer home games.
Preseason tickets for the August 21 game against the New York Jets are also available to members at cost or best offer. If interested, please contact Steve Stocker, chair of the raffle fundraiser. The face value of the two tickets is $148.
This is a great way to promote our club, build awareness for the causes we support, and raise funds in the process. GO PACK!!
[Printing donations by National Sign & Design - New Berlin, WI and Special Editions - Sussex, WI]
Rotary Million Dollar Journey Reached its Goal . . . and More . . . and More!
A joint effort between the Wisconsin & Michigan Rotarians of Districts 6220 and 6270 to raise $1,000,000 for The Rotary Foundation (TRF) by October 2020 reached its goal four months early in July 2020. With that success, and with even greater need, the districts continued the journey by raising more funds. The campaign ended on June 30, 2021.
Tom Curl, our Elmbrook Rotary Club's TRF representative, reports that the final tally was USD$2,797,153!
In these unprecedented times of pandemic and economic uncertainty, this result once again demonstrates the "giving gene" that Rotarians possess.
With CoViD-19 lockdowns hopefully behind us, the Elmbrook Rotary Club is back to socializing and having fun. Our monthly socials are one of the ways that our members “build GOOD WILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS,” the third tenet of the Four-Way Test of "the things we think, say, or do." Mark your calendars now for the following socials.
August 13 — Pabst Mansion Mini-Tour & Beer Garden. Our August social is going to be a special one . . . a private mini-tour of the Pabst Mansion & Beer Garden. We'll start gathering at 4:30 p.m. with the mini-tour starting at 5:00 p.m.
September 18 — Elm Grove Oktoberfest. It's the best beer time of the year, and we're going to celebrate all the special seasonal brews at the Elm Grove Oktoberfest. This social is a club favorite and supports the Elm Grove Community Foundation. Hope to see you and your family there! Look for our starting at 4:00 p.m. in the beer tent.
October 9 — Progressive Dinner. We’re going to do things a bit differently this year (for health safety reasons). Instead of having dinner at members' homes, small groups will meet for dinner at various restaurants (TBD). After dinner, we’ll all progress to Steve and Mary Ponto’s home for dessert.
The Elmbrook Rotary Club is special because of the camaraderie shared among all our fellow Rotarians. We hope you will join us at some/all of these great social events. Spouses, guests, and prospective members are always welcome.
Ron Jones has been a Rotarian for 35+ years. He has announced to Elmbrook Rotary Club that he and his wife Barbara have sold their home here in Wisconsin and are retiring permanently to Florida. ERC members hope that this dedicated, faithful Rotarian will find another club in Florida OR even continue as an ERC member. The latter is possible because of how the CoViD-19 global pandemic has created opportunities for Rotary virtual membership in any club in the world.
Ron shares the following about his Rotary journey:
"My history with Rotary began (35 years ago) in April 1986. I was VP of Patient Care Services at Elmbrook Memorial Hospital. Dr. Sridhar Vasudevan, M.D., was assigned to launch a new evening Rotary Club in Brookfield by the Brookfield Rotary Club Board of Directors. Dr. Vasudevan came to me, at Elmbrook Hospital, to garner interest in me and others to join Rotary. We were designated a provisional club status on May 6, 1986.
"On October 22, 1986, the club received its official charter at a large gathering hosted by the Brookfield Rotary Club. The new Brookfield Sunset Rotary Club began with 25 new members. Jim Dunn and I were charter members on that night.
"I was President-Elect, and Jim Dunn was on the Board and also chair of the Club Service Committee. I had perfect attendance for my first 32 years.
"After 23 years of Nursing and Administrative work at Elmbrook Memorial Hospital, I was recruited to be President of the Siebert Lutheran Foundation in June 1993. In January 2014, I retired from Siebert Foundation."
On Friday, July 16, Ron was "mugged" by ERC President Dr. Thom Arndt with a small farewell gift. Thanks, Ron, and richest blessings to you and Barbara as you make another "transition" in life.
Joe Addis, a Certified Arborist, visited Elmbrook Rotary on Friday, July 16. He is a Certified Arborist and a Certified Treecare Safety Professional with an associates degree and bachelor's degree in Urban Forestry. He can provide a comprehensive plant health care program, pruning recommendations, evaluation of the health and structure of trees, and a long term plan for maintaining landscapes. He works closely with residential and commercial property owners in caring for their trees and shrubs.
The information on "Tree and Plant Disease," which he provided to ERC, was much appreciated. One member commented: "I wish that I had learned this years ago!"
Rotary International is a world-wide organization of about 1.2 million business people and professionals in 35,000 clubs dedicated to serving others.
With about 80 members, the Elmbrook Rotary Club is part of Rotary International District 6270, whose geographic area covers southeastern Wisconsin. There are 54 local clubs in D-6270 as well as numerous Interact Clubs and Rotaract Clubs.
Over the past three years, Rotarians in this district have contributed or raised more than $1.3 million for projects. These ranged from local needs to international activities in Guatemala, Haiti, India, and Ecuador.
In addition, some $35,000 was designated for CoViD-19 relief in Wisconsin communities and around the world.
D-6270 Rotarians also contributed $70,000 toward eliminating the few remaining pockets of polio in South Asia. This was matched by the Rotary International Foundation's Polio Plus Fund and the Bill and Melina Gates Foundation for a total of $420,000.
The 11th trip to Antigua, Guatemala—in partnership with Common Hope—now has the travel dates of February 7 and 13, 2022.
There is a core group of members/spouses planning to go. As was true in the past, the larger the team the better the experience. As of this moment there are 10 persons who are planning to make the trip, and all have participated in prior years. Newer members are most welcome, and encouraged, to join the group. This is handled on a "first come first serve" basis, and the team can fill at the last minute. At the moment there are around eight (8) slots open.
Please call or write for further information. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Erik Moeser, an International Committee member, or any previously involved ERC member.
The April 2021 edition of the Elm Grove News - Independent carries a major article on Rotary International (RI) District 6270's announcement of the selection of Alaina Eckert, Sussex, WI, as its Global Grant Scholarship applicant for 2021-2022. Ms. Eckert was referred to the D-6270 selection committee by Elmbrook Rotary Club leadership. Click here or on the image below to access the article.
Ms. Eckert is a graduate of Sussex Hamilton H.S. and of The University of Wisconsin—Madison. She has already begun a dual degree, Master of Science/Master of International Nature Conservation, in a cooperative program of the Georg-August Universität in Göttingen, Germany, and Lincoln University in Lincoln, New Zealand. Since her Area of Focus is "Environment," the Global Grant will be one of the first in this newest emphasis of Rotary International, which takes effect on July 1, 2021.
The practical approach of Ms. Eckert's study program is to preserve the integrity of nature, in combination with the assessment of risk management and conservation strategy, and offers an invaluable experience in the education of international conservation. The four-semester program offers new perspectives to maintaining biodiversity and ecosystems that allow local communities to be resilient to future ecological changes, maintain economic stability and growth, use adaptive conservation management strategies for both the betterment of the community and the ecosystem, and preserve critical ecological systems. Thus, Ms. Eckert’s program of studies aligns closely with RI’s newest Area of Focus, the "Environment."
The amount of the Global Grant Scholarship is U.S. $30,000. RI District 6270 is providing $16,667 of that amount, and The Rotary Foundation is matching it at an 80% level with another $13,333. The Rotary Foundation, RI districts, and Rotary clubs invest in our future leaders and philanthropists by funding scholarships for graduate study through the Global Grant Scholarship program. Information about Rotary’s other scholarship programs can be accessed at: https://www.rotary.org/en/our-programs/scholarships.
RI District 6270 Global Grant Scholarship Recipient
The 4th of July Parade returned to Brookfield on July 3, and members of Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) were present!
ERC tradition has been to participate in both the annual Elm Grove Memorial Day Parade and the annual Brookfield 4th of July Parade. Unfortunately, COVID-19 spoiled both events in 2020 and the Elm Grove Memorial Day Parade in 2021. However, the Brookfield Independence Day celebration was back in full swing this year!
ERC participants who walked the parade route, and handed out lots of candy, were: Thom Arndt (2021-2022 ERC President), Kevin (convertible driver) and Sue Roche, Christine Spresser & Linda Edelstein (banner bearers), Bill Petterson, and Tom Hochuli.
Thanks to our six ERC members and one family member who well represented our club!
The Rotary International President for 2021-2022 is Shekhar Mehta, member (since 1985) of the Rotary Club of Calcutta-Mahanagar, Calcutta, India. He and spouse Rashi look forward to meeting as many Rotarians as possible during this new Rotary year.
Shekhar has chosen "Serve to Change Lives" as the theme for 2021-2022. He states the following about the theme: "Imagine the change we, as Rotary members, can make when there are so many more of us! More people to care for others, more people to Serve to Change Lives. Think of the impact we can have through grow more, do more. More members will enable us to embark on bigger and bolder service projects. And each of us can also continue to serve in our own personal ways, responding to needs in our communities."
To read what family and colleagues have to say about him, click here.
At its Changing of the Guard ceremony held on June 30, Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) announced forty-three Paul Harris Fellow recognitions. These included six first-time Paul Harris fellows, six presented as gifts from a Rotarian to a spouse or child, and thirty-one additional recognitions of Rotarians who were already Paul Harris Fellows.
The remarkable number of Paul Harris Fellow recognitions was partially the result of the fact the COVID-19 pandemic had prevented recognitions that were earned during the prior fifteen months. However, the principal reason for the extraordinarily large number was a new, limited-time Paul Harris matching program instituted by ERC earlier in 2021. Under the club’s matching program, the club matched each donation of $500 to The Rotary Foundation (TRF) with a transfer of 500 Foundation recognition points. The TRF points are provided by the club itself and by members who have accumulated a large number of recognition points.
Announcement of the matching program generated a Paul Harris “buzz” among club members and prompted many of them to make contributions they might not otherwise have made. The matching program, which runs through the end of the current calendar year, has already generated more than $9,200 of donations to The Rotary Foundation. In addition, the presentation of so many recognitions at the Changing of the Guard event has prompted several members to indicate that they will make Paul Harris donations before the end of the calendar year. The net result of the matching program has been a substantial increase in contributions to The Rotary Foundation and more engagement by the members of Elmbrook Rotary Club.
The July 2021 edition of the Elm Grove News - Independent is available by clicking here.
A major ERC article on the "Literacy Services of Wisconsin" (written by Jan Constable) is located on p. 6. The July 2021 ERC meetings (with program speaker information) are listed in the "Calendar of Events" on p. 5; and ERC's paid advertisement appears on p. 3.
"You'll be back!" We've been saying that for many months now, but now we can say for certain, "We're Back!" In July it's finally coming true for the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC)!
In-person meetings resumed on Friday, July 9. It was a terrific start to post-COVID meetings with a great program speaker (Annemarie Sawkins, "A Creative Place—The History of Wisconsin Art") and a visit from the RI D-6270 Global Grant Scholarship winner (Alaina Eckert, "Environment" Area of Focus) and her parents. Attendance included 58 in person and 4-5 via Zoom online.
Don't miss the opportunity! Each week a full breakfast will be available at the Western Racquet Club in Elm Grove. The buffet line will begin at approximately 06:45 a.m., and the meeting will begin shortly after the top of the hour.
Meetings will also be available via Zoom. ERC is investigating technology that will provide optimum video and audio performance for those attending via Zoom. The desire is to have the majority of members attending in person, although Zoom will be available for those who require it and for remote program speakers when appropriate. The Board will evaluate the success of this arrangement in January 2022.
Nearly 100 Elmbrook Rotary members and guests gathered on Wednesday, June 30, for a perfect evening at the Mitchell Park pavilion in Brookfield. The event was the 2021 "Changing of the Guard." Spirits were bright (in a post-COVID outdoor venue), hugs were plentiful, and both food and drink were greatly enjoyed.
The meal was catered by Bunzel's, and the after-dinner program featured brief presentations for various purposes. These included remarks by outgoing President Tom Hochuli, updates on the "Million Dollar Journey" by Tom Curl and the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation by Michael Schmeling, announcement of an abundance of Paul Harris Fellow recognitions (see separate article), a report on "Spikes for Tykes" results by Mike Hogan, and distribution of perfect attendance awards by Harry Farchmin.
The culmination of the evening was the installation of the 2021-2022 officers. Those officers are: Dr. Thom Arndt, President; Harry Farchmin, Vice-President; Christine Spresser, Secretary; Dr. Thomas Steinbach, Sergeant-at-Arms; Mark Zalewski, Treasurer; and Gordy Miller, ER Foundation Treasurer. Jeanne Allen, Bonnie Bertram, & Paul Langer also became Directors of both the club and the foundation.
Incoming President, Dr. Thom Arndt, paid tribute to the outgoing officers and directors and encouraged everyone present to "Serve to Change Lives," the Rotary International Theme for 2021-2022.
Please join the Elmbrook Rotary Club in celebrating our esteemed member Birthdays and Anniversaries in July.
"My life, I realize suddenly, is July. Childhood is June, and old age is August, but here it is, July, and my life, this year, is July inside of July." ―Rick Bass
Elmbrook Rotary members and guests participated in the annual "Walk for Hope," supporting Common Hope's programs in Guatemala, on Saturday, June 5.
We walk because less than 20% of kids graduate from high school in Guatemala. We walk to support education for students living in poverty, so that they can graduate and help end generational poverty for their family. We walk for the kids just starting school, where they will likely hold a book for the first time. We walk so that families have access to quality health care. We walk to help young people dream, grow, and succeed.
Now more than ever, all of us appreciate the Power of Healthcare, Community, and Hope. Let's walk the Extra Mile to fight poverty with diplomas!
Each $1,200 we raise will sponsor a student and their family for one year. Approximately $3,000 was raised on Saturday morning, June 5. Support our team by going to our fundraising/registration page (click here).
See a handful of photos from the June 5th event by clicking here.
The Rotary Western Great Lakes District Conference successfully held its first virtual conference during May 1-6. To help Rotarians to be inspired, to become engaged, and to be change makers, the Conference Committee has provided:
5.5 hours of General Sessions
11.7 hour of Breakouts covering Membership, Engaging Youth & Young Adults, Leadership, and Fundraising
3 hours of House of Friendship
RWGLDC is pleased to announce the launch of its YouTube channel with Rotary International President Holger Knaack's Opening Remarks, https://youtu.be/KhrDqGJs3uQ, Past District Governor Bill Gormont’s Magic of Rotary, https://youtu.be/Sz8DVgHlqWA, and more.
This new channel enables you to share a video of how you were inspired. Perhaps there was a breakout session held at the same time as the one you attended. You have the opportunity to see what you missed and grow in Rotary. By subscribing to the Rotary Western Great Lakes District Conference YouTube channel, you will be alerted as more conference videos are posted in the coming days.
Barry Nelson James, Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) member since 1984, died on Tuesday, May 25. He was 87 years old.
A memorial service occurred at the Becker Ritter Funeral Home, Brookfield, WI, on Wednesday, June 2. The full "Tribute" (obituary) on the funeral home's web site can be read by clicking here.
Barry was an avid, devoted Rotarian whose own maternal grandfather, Canadian John Nelson, served as Rotary International President during 1933-34. Barry himself served terms on Rotary International District 6270's District Grant Committee and Global Grant Committee. In the local club he served as ERC President during 1990-91. He also initiated "Diane's Dictionaries," one of ERC's many projects which was named after his first wife. Information about this charitable effort can be read by clicking here. He was also the Primary Contact (driving agent) for ERC's Global Grant initiative for an e-learning project in India during 2014-15.
ERC President Tom Hochuli remembers about him, "Barry was generally the first person to arrive at our meetings each week and during this past pandemic year has been in attendance for the majority of meetings on Zoom." Indeed, he will be missed.
The Elmbrook Rotary Club's Board of Directors has acted to rename the ERC annual golf outing to the "Barry James Memorial Golf Outing" and to designate any proceeds from the outing for use by the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation. As the official "Tribute" notes, "It never mattered what his score was as long as he got the round in within 2 ½ hours."
Requiescat in pace!
If desired, memorials can be given (by family request) either to "Elmbrook Rotary Club" or to "Living Hope Presbyterian Church."
Rotary District 6270 has welcomed a new satellite club in Fond du Lac. New clubs make it possible for current members, past members, and new members of Rotary to create more opportunity for service in their community and in the world. A special thanks to Barb Senn and the Board of Directors of the Fond du Lac Morning Rotary Club for spearheading this effort. It is wonderful to see how Rotary can renew itself and adjust to new times and circumstances. The new club is currently meeting virtually once a month but is looking to change to hybrid meetings in the coming months. With ten (10) active members, the club is set for growth.
A satellite club offers current members of a club the opportunity to meet a changing schedule or circumstance, past members to rejoin Rotary, and new members to join at a time and place that fit their work hours or family schedule better.
A few comments from club members to illustrate some of the many reasons for clubs to offer an alternative to a traditional Rotary experience:
“We used to be Interact members and wanted to rejoin the Rotary World, but a morning club did not make that possible.”
“We now spend several months out of state and the time difference makes it difficult to participate in a morning meeting.”
“I am commuting to work at 7:00 AM and an afterhours club makes it possible to join Rotary.”
Congratulations to Fond du Lac Afterhours. Four growing, active Satellite Clubs are now part of Rotary District 6270.
During World Immunization Week, April 24-30, Elmbrook Rotary joined with Rotary International and the other 150+ Wisconsin Rotary clubs to help combat vaccine hesitancy and misinformation by spreading the facts about why #VaccinesWork.
With decades of experience fighting polio, Rotary has played, and will continue to play, a key role in informing people about the power and effectiveness of vaccines. As COVID-19 vaccines become more available, Rotary members are using our experience in fighting polio to help communities with their vaccination education and organization efforts. Today, because we and our partners have worked so hard, wild poliovirus remains endemic in only two countries: Afghanistan and Pakistan. Yet to eradicate it there, and to prevent a resurgence in other parts of the world, we must continue to build trust in vaccines.
Rotary International has produced a new two-minute video, "Rotary Inspires Leaders in Global Health." In it, global health leaders like U.S. infectious disease expert Dr. Anthony Fauci, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Co-Chair Bill Gates, UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta H. Fore, and World Health Organization Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus talk about what Rotary has achieved in the fight to end polio.
Click here or on the URL above, or on the image below to access and view the video.
Together, we can be just a starting place in helping our local community members to understand the value of vaccinations for themselves and their community.
ERC's monthly meetings in May are listed in the "Calendar of Events" on p. 5. A major story, written by ERC member Erik Moeser and concerning the use of monies received this year from a District Grant, appears on p. 6. Copies are also available for pick up at the Elm Grove & Brookfield libraries, Sendik's & Ace hardware in Elm Grove, etc.
The photo depicts Linda Garcia (center) and her parents when they joined former Brookfield Mayor Kate Bloomberg and her daughter Amy Sandlass in Antigua, Guatemala, a few years ago to celebrate Linda’s high school graduation at the Common Hope school. Linda’s concentration was Business Administration, one of a handful of specialties open to high school students, as studies are heavily “trade” oriented.
Emily Tucker, RI Regional Membership Officer (RMO) for Zones 25B & 29, has provided a monthly newsletter (the RMO April Membership Update) that contains several most interesting and helpful documents.
In this month’s newsletter, she shares a resource on club models and membership types, stories from Rotaractors who have become Rotarians, an update on membership leads, and our District 6270 membership progress to goal reports.
Elmbrook Rotary Club was not able to send a team of members, along with “friends and family,” to Guatemala this past February as it has done since 2012 because of COVID-19 issues. Instead, the club applied for a District Grant from Rotary International District 6270, representing 54 clubs in southeastern Wisconsin, to provide help for 7th grade students who are at risk of dropping out of school (now particularly difficult to deal with due to the pandemic).
Elmbrook Rotary was able to provide ten (10) LG tablets, loaded with software and internet capability, to a new “Resource Center” in a remote village. The center was designed in cooperation with Common Hope, an NGO based in the World Heritage City of Antigua. Common Hope promotes literacy and school attendance through work in housing, health, nutrition, and social services. The tablets are being used to enable contactless interventions, enabling staff to encourage students to remain in school. The technology enables working with the families to improve their circumstances and to make decisions, without the risk of in-person visits. Once the family decisions are made, the tablets can then be provided to another student, and so forth.
The issue is, and has been, economic in nature. A school-age child can be seen as an “asset” in third world areas in a country like Guatemala, being forced to work in fields to increase the family income. That leads to a cycle of poverty, which Common Hope tries to break by its efforts. Since Common Hope’s inception in Guatemala, those efforts have resulted in more than 3,000 high school graduates. The average level of school completion is roughly five years, and illiteracy in some remotely indigenous villages can be 60% or more.
For more information on how you can help, contact Elmbrook Rotarian Erik Moeser.
On Friday, April 16, 2021, the members of Elmbrook Rotary Club were privileged to be entertained, informed, and delighted by Lande Grindle, one of the broadcasters for the Milwaukee Brewers organization.
Lane shared with the club his own background that led him to his dream job, broadcasting for the Brewers and working side-by-side with the legendary Bob Uecker, who was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2015.
The Zoom recording of Mr. Grindle's presentation can be accessed by clicking on the image above or by clicking here. He predicted that the St. Louis Cardinals would be the Brewers' end-of-season competitor this year but that the Brewers would prevail.
The Elmbrook Rotary Club and Foundation have been honored to support the Veterans in Focus Photography Group at the Milwaukee VA Medical Center since its inception in 2017.
The idea for the photography group came from visits that Courtney Zeller, HUD VASH Certified Therapeutic Recreation Therapist, had with veterans in their homes. Since many veterans had challenges finding stable housing in the past, Courtney took note that their living environments were “relatively stark." A photography group class could potentially enable Veterans to experience the health benefits of camaraderie and self-exploration while additionally creating personal framed photographs to display at their home.
Veterans in Focus has been very successful and has evolved over the past five years, with two sessions offered annually in the spring and in the fall. Together with three talented community volunteers, the veterans learn the technical skills of using the camera and photography along with skills that can be applied to improve their mental health. Then they explore various places in the community to practice their skills. Some of these places have included the Milwaukee Lakefront, the Milwaukee Urban Ecology Center, the Water Tower, and the Harley Davidson Museum, to name a few. Each session is concluded with a photography exhibit open to the public for the veterans to display and share their work. The past community venues which have offered their sites for exhibits have included The Wilson Center, Northwestern Mutual, Carroll University, Milwaukee County Library-Central Branch, and the Milwaukee County War Memorial Center.
The exhibits are accompanied by an online slideshow which proved to be especially helpful in 2020 due to the pandemic. The most recent slide show, dated October 14, 2020, can be viewed online at www.youtube.com/watch?v=sAbD6RAKq6g . The 10 minute slideshow demonstrates the stunning photographs taken by the Veterans during the Fall 2020 session, and takes one to the rich venues visited, including the Sculpture Gardens, Havenwoods State Forest, Mitchell Domes, 3 Bridges Park, MKE Urban Stables, and the War Memorial! One of these photographs (taken during the fall session by Jeffry Peterson) is exhibited in this article.
The following quote is from a veteran who was a participant in the fall session which encapsulates the benefits of the program: “I gained inner growth, patience, and more awareness of my surroundings.” Another surprising outcome of the program has been that two of the past veteran participants are pursuing a future interest photography and are taking college education courses in photography related fields of study.
If you or your company would like to learn more about the Veterans in Focus photography program, please contact Courtney Zeller (Courtney.zeller@va.gov).
The Civic Music Association, Milwaukee, is one of many charitable organizations that are sponsored by the Mini-Grant program of the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) and the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation (ERF).
The CMA was founded in 1918. It has served many hundreds of young musicians and music educators over the years through educational experiences, scholarship programs, performance opportunities, and award recognition. In recent years, the emphasis has increased on private music lessons based on financial need and other factors. Elmbrook Rotary Foundation donations have in the past been recognition of that effort.
Civic Music’s Board of Directors is made up of musicians, MPS music teachers and community leaders. CMA has maintained an association with MYSO (Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra) and the Steinway Society of Milwaukee. It has had to re-invent itself in the past year, and on-line lessons and recitals have been substituted for live participation due to the COVID-19 global pandemic. Some programs have been pushed back pending the return of normal health considerations, which all hope for in the not-too-distant future.
Serenity Inns addresses an unmet community need for residential treatment for men who are recovering from addiction and who have no insurance or funds to pay for treatment. The organization provides support for mind, body and spirit.
Their goal is to provide the men with the support and accountability they need to rebuild their lives and to become self-sufficient, contributing members of the community. The need for this program is demonstrated by statistics attesting to the rising rate of opioid addiction along with an ever-present and growing waiting list.
All of the men served by Serenity Inns are battling addictions. They are typically between the ages of 18 and 55; they have an addiction to heroin/opiates, cocaine, or alcohol; and they are without the ability to pay for treatment. They must complete detox before arriving at Serenity Inns due to the possible medical complications that detox entails. Nearly 100% of the men served at Serenity Inns have a history of incarceration.
Serenity Inns’ main program is the residential Recovery Program, which is supplemented by the Alumni House independent living program (see photo) and the Outpatient Program. Together the programs served approximately 100 people annually.
For the second year in a row, Serenity Inns recently was awarded “Best in Milwaukee” by the Shepherd Express in the Alcohol & Drug Rehab Center category.
Elmbrook Rotary Club and the ERC Foundation are pleased to support Serenity Inns through our Mini-Grant program.
Through grants from The Rotary Foundation, Rotarians improve access to essential medical services for mothers and their children. These efforts are aimed at reducing the number of children under age five who die each year because of malnutrition, inadequate health care, and poor sanitation – a figure that is currently estimated at 7 million.
According to another estimate, more than 80 percent of maternal deaths can be prevented with access to reproductive health services and trained health care workers. Rotarians provide education, immunizations, birthing kits, and mobile health clinics to support these causes. Women are taught how to prevent mother-to-infant HIV transmission, how to breast-feed, and how to protect themselves and their children from disease.
Elmbrook Rotary Club is the international partner for a Rotary Foundation Global Grant that has provided pediatric and neonatal ventilators for Andean Health & Development's(AHD’s) locally-staffed teaching hospital in Santo Domingo, Ecuador.
Encourage your friends , relatives, neighbors, and business associates to join Rotary and support maternal and child health.
The Rotary Foundation (TRF) has announced additional changes to its Global Grants program. The first major change occurred last year when TRF decided that World fund resources will be used to match only District Designated Fund (DDF) contributions, and the match remained at 100%. This change was because, due to COVID-19 distributions, TRF fully expended the Global Grant budget.
The most recent change takes effect on July 1, 2021, and includes the following:
1. DDF contributions transferred to Polio Plus will be matched at 50% (instead of 100%) 2. The World Fund match of DDF will be reduced from 100% to 80% when being used for Global Grants. 3. 5% of the current year’s Annual fund-SHARE contributions will be taken equally from the World Fund and DDF to help fund operating expenses. (i.e., for every $100 contribution, $5 will go to operating expenses, $47.50 to DDF, and $47.50 to the World Fund). 4. The ability to roll over unused DDF will be limited to five years. The first DDF rollover redirection will take place on 1 July 2026. Currently there is $48.8 million DDF being carried by various districts throughout the world, and TRF desires to put those monies to work. [NOTE: RI District 6270, in which Elmbrook Rotary is located, does NOT carry over large amounts of DDF from one year to the next. Rather, a rollover occurs only when the amount is already designated for a particular purpose.]
The Elmbrook Rotary Club's International Committee has elected to support a unique collaboration between Jhoole in India and Womanspace in Rockford, IL.
Jhoole is a nonprofit ethical fashion social enterprise based in Maheshwar, Madhya Pradesh, India. Founded by Hannah Warren, a past Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar and President Elect for the Rockford Rotary Club, Jhoole employs women to help them gain economic independence, invest in education and break the cycle of poverty in their community. Jhoole focuses on empowering women both financially, through employment and vocational training, and as individuals, through community programming in literacy, mindfulness, health, and creative arts.
In a new collaboration, Jhoole has partnered with Womanspace, a unique nonprofit organization in Rockford, IL, that focuses on empowering women to become creative, confident, impactful leaders. A group of artists from Jhoole and Womanspace have cross-pollinated ideas and techniques to design an athleisurewear collection that will be manufactured, hand-dyed and block-printed by Jhoole. The collection is available for purchase here.
Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) was both educated and entertained by a world-renowned economist, Dr. Mark Skousen, in its weekly Zoom virtual meeting on Friday, March 12.
Mark Skousen, Ph. D., editor of Forecasts & Strategies, is a nationally known investment expert, economist, university professor, and author of more than 25 books. In July 2018 Dr Skousen was awarded the inaugural Triple Crown in Economics for his work in economic theory, history, and education, and has been identified as one of the 20 most influential living economists.
In his presentation to ERC, Dr. Skousen challenged members to solve some of the world's most interesting puzzles and paradoxes in economics and finances. Keeping the audience completely engaged, he won more than a few "converts" to his economic theories. A PDF copy of his presentation slides can be accessed here.
A limited number of Dr. Skousen's book, The Maxims of Wall Street, were made available on the ERC's online auction site, and proceeds were given to The FOOD Pantry of Waukesha County. Additional copies are available for purchase on Amazon.com. Access by clicking here or on the image above.
Elmbrook Rotary's Puzzle Palooza online auction netted $10,000 in support of The FOOD Pantry Serving Waukesha County.
The online auction had over 200 items, including some new puzzles and puzzle company gift cards. The $10,000 was raised through bidding on gently-used puzzles and cash contributions (both matched dollar for dollar with a grant from the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation).
Karen Tredwell, Executive Director of The FOOD Pantry, reports that pantry usage was 30% higher in April, May, & June of 2020 compared to 2019, and increased usage has remained comparable this year. The FOOD Pantry is currently serving about 6,000 individuals per month throughout the entire Waukesha County area. A "digital check" was presented to Director Tredwell in ERC's Zoom meeting on Friday, March 5. The paper check was sent via USPS.
The FOOD Pantry intends to utilize the funds received from Elmbrook Rotary for the new mobile unit at Elmbrook School District's Burleigh Elementary School. A major article in the March 2021 edition (see p. 7) of Elm Grove News - Independent features the fundraiser. Click here or on the image above to access a PDF copy of the EGNI edition.
A great experience has been planned for 2021-2022 Rotary leadership in the Great Lakes and Midwest geographical areas during March 11-13. The President Elect Training Seminar (PETS) is a mandatory annual training event for all Presidents Elect and is also available for other Rotary leadership. This year, because of the global pandemic, the event will be a virtual one.
The Great Lakes Rotary PETS and the Midwest PETS have combined resources to create a partnership of 13 Rotary districts. The event is being referred to as MEGA PETS.
This year’s virtual PETS will be a great opportunity to network and to share ideas with other PEs outside one’s district and to learn from some of Rotary’s prominent leaders. Practical information is intended to prepare PEs for their year as a Rotary club president.
PETS trainers have developed a virtual curriculum based on years of experience and feedback from the previous attendees. That experience indicates that club presidents-elect often feel some trepidation about handling their new role, and returning presidents need a more in-depth focus. Surveys also indicate that, after attending PETS, the presidents elect increase their confidence to 95%+. This year will be no different.
Thom Arndt, Elmbrook Rotary’s PE, will be in attendance as will Larry Myers, D-6270 Assistant Governor for Area E. Let’s hope they will be inspired!
Elmbrook Rotary has enjoyed an extremely successful, second online auction fundraiser.
Running from February 12 until February 19, the online auction benefitted The FOOD Pantry of Waukesha County (which is experiencing heightened use because of COVID-19). The Elmbrook Rotary Foundation matched every dollar raised up to $5,000. Thus far, the effort has resulted in nearly $10,000 being raised for The FOOD Pantry. Although the bidding for puzzles ended at noon on Friday, February 19, the online auction site remains open until Friday, February 26, for donations.
The FOOD Pantry has announced that it intends to use the monies received from this fundraiser to help finance a new mobile food pantry at Burleigh Elementary School in the Elmbrook School District.
February is "Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution" month for Rotary worldwide.
Forty-two million people are displaced by armed conflict or persecution, and 90 percent of armed-conflict casualties are civilians, half of them children. Through service projects, fellowships, and other Rotary-sponsored campaigns, members train adults and young leaders to prevent and mediate conflict, and aid refugees who have fled dangerous areas. Members also pursue projects to address the underlying structural causes of conflict, including poverty, inequality, ethnic tension, lack of access to education, and unequal distribution of resources.
Join Rotary and help spread peace around the world. Give now to promote peace.
Even before celebrating Elmbrook Rotary's successful receipt of a $98,000 Global Grant from The Rotary Foundation (TRF), ERC member Jim Dunn continued his ongoing support of Andean Health & Development (AHD) by participating in its annual group bike ride in September 2021.
Because of the global pandemic, this annual fundraiser became "virtual" this year. Some 143 cyclists in 17 different states and four different countries participated. Generosity from 369 donors resulted in net contributions of $634,935 from the annual fundraiser.
Be sure to read the article (p. 6) in the February 2021 edition of Elm Grove News - Independent about ERC's Global Grant from TRF. Click here to access.
And, do join ERC's weekly meeting on Friday, February 19, when Dr. David Gaus (AHD Founder & CEO) will be the featured speaker.
Throughout the year, Common Hope is hosting a series of virtual Zoom Sessions on focused topics from health care to housing. Common Hope wants to bring Guatemala to you with opportunities to dive deeper into culture, context, programs, and more.
Learn about the education system in Guatemala, the challenges of maintaining educational health in a pandemic, and the progress of education in Guatemala.
This session will be 60 minutes and there are two session times to choose from. You will hear from Executive Director, Shari Blindt along with visits from team members in Guatemala.
Sarah Pfeiffle of NAMI Southeast Wisconsin briefed Elmbrook Rotary on Friday, January 15, about the programs of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness).
She especially addressed the objectives, efforts, and results of the PATH (Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness) program. PATH has been financially supported for the past several years by an Elmbrook Rotary Mini-Grant.
The NAMI Southeast Wisconsin website can be accessed by clicking here in order to learn more about NAMI and its program. Click on the image below to view Ms. Pfeiffle's most informative presentation.
The Rotary Club of Troy, MI, and RI District 6380, (an international district that comprises parts of southeastern Michigan and also Canada) hosted an online presentation and Q&A on January 6 with John Hewko, Rotary International General Secretary. The program is most informative and provides Hewko's perspective on "The Future of Rotary." Enjoy the embedded YouTube video, or click here to access if trying to view from the Elmbrook Rotary Club's weekly eBulletin.
In 2020 Elm Grove Fire Chief (Retired) William Selzer was named as the "Business Person of the Year" by Elmbrook Rotary in recognition of his 47 years of service. He recently provided the photo below, displaying the ERC recognition plaque alongside other memorabilia in his home office.
In addition, Chief Selzer sent a letter of gratitude intended for the entire club membership. Click here to read his letter, which also contains fire prevention tips that can be profitably put to use by all of us.
Congratulations again to Fire Chief (Retired) Bill Selzer!
Ana V. Ramirez is the 8th student at the Common Hope School in Guatemala who has been sponsored by the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation.
Ana's family income is U.S. $364/month, and the six-member family lives in a small concrete-block home (10 meters by 10 meters). They obtain water and electricity from neighbors and must use an outhouse for a bathroom.
Ana is an 11th Grade student, enrolled in Marketing and Advertising Certification. Her anticipated graduation date is November 2022. Since 2014, six members of Elmbrook Rotary Club (accompanied by four family members) have made the trip to Guatemala for the graduation exercises, a weekend-long celebration with, and support for, our sponsored student and her/his family. Any club member can volunteer to represent the club. Contact Erik Moeser if interested.
Through vocational service, Rotarians contribute their professional expertise and skills to address societal problems and needs, and to promote high ethical standards in the workplace. Rotarians have two benchmarks for promoting professional integrity: the Rotary Code of Conduct and the Four-Way Test. Click on "Read more" to study these two benchmarks.
Rotarians can support vocational service by
Strengthening the emphasis on professional diversity in member recruitment;
Identifying ways to emphasize professions in club activities;
Placing a stronger emphasis on business networking with integrity at the club and district level -- which also is a means of attracting and mentoring the next generation; and
Emphasizing the connection between The Four-Way Test and the Rotary Code of Conduct and their importance to the values of Rotary.
Please join the Elmbrook Rotary Club in celebrating our esteemed member Birthdays and Anniversaries in January.
“"I'll never understand why everybody puts so much emphasis on January first. There are three hundred and sixty-four other days in the year that you can make a change." ―Elizabeth Eulberg
On December 28 the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) was notified that The Rotary Foundation has paid out $47,300 from its World Fund in support of Global Grant 2099786, "Pediatric Ventilators Santo Domingo Ecuador." The amount includes $11,000 of District Designated Funds (DFF) from Rotary District 6270.
The ERC 2020 Christmas Program will never be forgotten! Not deterred by COVID-19 and the limitations of an online Zoom video conference, coordinator Gary Gilmore (with the assistance of Jim Finn, Steve Stocker, and others) put together a pre-recorded presentation. It is available on the YouTube platform and be accessed by clicking here or on the image below.
On December 17, 2020, the Elmbrook Rotary Club presented a collection of 90 gifts to families currently being assisted by SaintA in Milwaukee. The mission of SaintA is "to facilitate equity, learning, healing and wellness by the restoring connections that help children and families thrive."
The families and staff at SaintA were overwhelmed by the generosity of ERC members who shopped for, purchased, and wrapped the gifts that brightened the holidays for many families. Thanks to ERC member Jack Nelson for coordinating the effort!
If, on December 8, you missed Kristin Bock's special online presentation, fear not!
Entitled "Keeping Rotarians Connected: Using Nonverbal Communication in a Digital World," the presentation is now available on YouTube. Simply click here or on the image below.
The "Annual Meeting" of both the Elmbrook Rotary Club and the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation occurred on Friday, December 3.
Part of this online gathering included the election of new leaders for both the club and the foundation.
Elected to the Board of Directors for both organizations for a three-year term (Class of 2024) were Jeanne Allen and Bonnie Bertram. Past President Paul Langer was also elected to the Board of Directors for a one-year term (Class of 2022). Their tenure of office takes effect on July 1, 2021.
ERC member Tom Steinbach was elected to serve as Sergeant-at-Arms, beginning on July 1, 2021, and succeeding to Secretary, Vice-President, & President in succeeding years.
Congratulations to all, and thanks for being willing to serve!
ERC's historic, first-ever, ONLINE SILENT AUCTION experienced awesome, smashing results! A total of $11,299 was raised (bids, $8,824; donations, $1,475; & auction sponsorship, $1,000).
Combined with the annual "Spikes for Tykes" fundraiser results, this amount has already enabled ERC committees to authorize nearly $30,000 through the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation to support the charitable activities of 17 different organizations. Fantastic!
Thanks to all for your participation! Please contact anyone on the committee with any follow-up questions.
Online Silent Auction Committee:
Kevin Roche, Chair; Tom Hochuli, Honorary Member; Kathy Becker; Bonnie Bertram; Kate Bloomberg; Mike Groth; Jackie Radomski.
Veterans in Focus (VIF) trains veterans in photography, videography, and film. The local program at the Zablocki VA Medical Center has been financially supported by the Elmbrook Rotary Club's annual Mini-Grants effort for the past several years. Because of COVID-19, there will not be a VIF public display this year. However, do view the short video below which explains the objects of the program and some results of the 2020 training sessions.
If unable to access when attempting to view on a mobile device, click on the Veterans Day 2020 image below.
Through the Milwaukee VA Veterans in Focus program, veterans are able to express themselves and possibly even begin to prepare themselves for a career.
December is Rotary's "Disease Prevention and Treatment" month.
Disease results in misery, pain, and poverty for millions of people worldwide. That’s why treating and preventing disease are so important to us. We lead efforts both large and small. We set up temporary clinics, blood donation centers, and training facilities in underserved communities struggling with outbreaks and health care access. We design and build infrastructure that allows doctors, patients, and governments to work together.
Our members combat diseases like malaria, HIV/AIDS, Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, and polio. Prevention is important, which is why we also focus on health education and bringing people routine hearing, vision, and dental care.
HOW ROTARY MAKES HELP HAPPEN
We educate and equip communities to stop the spread of life-threatening diseases. Rotary members have hundreds of health projects underway around the world at any given time.
OUR IMPACT ON DISEASE
The Rotary Foundation is changing the world by providing grants for projects and activities around the globe and in your own backyard.
Rotary makes amazing things happen, like:
Providing clean water: Rotary has worked with partners to provide more than 80 percent of Ghana’s people with clean water to fight Guinea worm disease.
Reducing HIV infection: In Liberia, Rotary members are helping women get tested for HIV early in their pregnancies. They used prenatal care to reduce new HIV infections in children by 95 percent over two years.
Ending polio: Rotary members have played a key role in bringing the world to the brink of polio eradication. Their efforts have not only ended polio in 122 countries but also created a system for tackling myriad other health priorities, such as Ebola.
Because of COVID-19, sponsors of graduating students at the Common Hope School in Guatemala were not able to attend graduation events in person. However, the Common Hope organization arranged for two Zoom events in order to connect sponsors with their graduating students. Sergio Cuc C(Z)elada, who has been sponsored by the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation, was among the graduates.
Sergio hopes to attend a university in order to study Agriculture or Civil Engineering. Click here to read letters of gratitude from both Common Hope and from Sergio himself.
On November 1, Common Hope also debuted its "Salute to Hope," a video that explains and celebrates its work in Guatemala. Click on the image below to access the video, available on YouTube.
Share Hope this Holiday
This holiday season, please consider sharing hope with students and families in Guatemala. You can shop the Special Edition Gift Catalog in support of Covid-19 Crisis Response, send a note to someone in Guatemala to let them know you’re thinking of them, or order the NEW limited edition Holiday Boxes in the Common Hope Holiday Shop! Click here or on the image below to shop and order. Thank you for helping to deliver hope this holiday!
The Rotary Foundation (TRF) transforms your gifts into projects that change lives both close to home and around the world.
The Rotary Foundation's mission is to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace. Rotary Foundation grants (1) promote peace, (2) fight disease, (3) provide clean water and sanitation, (4) sustain mothers and children, (5) improve education, and (6) strengthen local economies. On July 1, 2021, supporting the environment will be added as a 7th Area of Focus.
The Foundation is a worldwide leader in the efforts to eradicate polio through its partnership in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI). Since 1988, Rotary and its partners in the GPEI have immunized over 3 billion children, reducing the incidence of polio by 99.9 percent and eradicating it from all but two countries. Rotary has contributed more than $2.1 billion and thousands of volunteer hours to eradication efforts. The Foundation also funds training of peacemakers through the Rotary Peace Center program. Most recently, Rotary's Disaster Response Grants are making it possible for Rotary members to respond effectively to local recovery efforts as they unfold, and COVID-19 was recently added as an eligible activity.
Strong financial oversight, a stellar charity rating, and a unique funding model mean that TRF makes the very most of your contribution. Give and become a part of Rotary’s life-changing work!
The collective leadership and expertise of 1.2 million members help tackle some of the world’s biggest challenges, locally and globally. We are united by common values and vision for the future as we sharpen our focus with targeted specific causes that will reach communities most in need.
Please join the Elmbrook Rotary Club in celebrating our esteemed member Birthdays and Anniversaries in November.
“But there is always a November space after the leaves have fallen when she felt it was almost indecent to intrude on the woods…for their glory terrestrial had departed and their glory celestial of spirit and purity and whiteness had not yet come upon them.” ― L.M. Montgomery, Anne of Windy Poplars
On October 30, 2020, Elmbrook Rotary Club had the privilege of being visited by Special Agent Tyrone ("Ty") Daniels of the U.S. Secret Service. However, rather than "investigating" Elmbrook Rotary, Special Agent Daniels provided a most interesting overview of the history and mission of the United States Secret Service. Keeping ERC members stumped with historical trivia, SA Daniels enlightened all participants with a most interesting presentation. Click on SA Daniels' image below to access the 45-minute presentation.
SA Daniels provided an overview on the following topics: whom the Secret Service is authorized to protect; the types of crimes the Secret Service investigates; how the Secret Service differs from other federal law enforcement agencies; the role the Secret Service had in Milwaukee’s DNC Convention (working with ERC's own Linda Wickstrom); and why agents seem to always wear sunglasses.
If you are not yet joining Elmbrook Rotary at 07:00 a.m. on Friday mornings, do consider it.
Rotary District 6270 World Polio Day Activities - Social Media Sharing Contest
RI District 6270 has encouraged local clubs to share what we are doing to eradicate polio via, among other methods, online social media. As a way to inspire us, District 6270 leaders created a little contest with rewards for contest-winning clubs. To keep this as uncomplicated and easy to accomplish as possible, they designated a very straight-forward set of actions on just two popular social media platforms, Facebook and Twitter.
Contest Activities
1. Timeline:The contest will run from 12:00 a.m. on October 15 through 11:59 p.m. on October 30. All counted activity must happen in that range of dates!
2. Action:Post about WPD on Facebook, and encourage all who read the posts to share them widely.
3. Action:Tweet about WPD on Twitter, and encourage re-tweets.
4. A club may make as many FB posts and Twitter tweets as desired, but the number of posts and tweets are not what get a win. It’s the total number of Facebook shares and Twitter re-tweets a club gets in the specified time range, indicating how well we’ve encouraged others to spread the message about World Polio Day.
Please Note: You must "Share" the Facebook post, not just "Like" it. "Like"s do not count; only "Share"s count. Please use your Facebook account to "Share" any Elmbrook Rotary Club posts on its Facebook page to your own Facebook page. Do the same with any ERC "Tweet"s on Twitter. Simply effect a "Retweet."
To repeat, Jackson Bubolz, ERC social media co-cordinator, is leading the charge for Elmbrook Rotary. Do get your Facebook and Twitter skills up to speed and "Share . . . Share . . . Share . . . Retweet . . . Retweet . . . Retweet!" The deadline for all Shares and Retweets is Friday, October 30!
Saturday, October 24, was World Polio Day. Mark Zalewski, ERC Treasurer, is a member of Cycling2Serve, a Rotary Fellowship. In past years Cycling2Serve has organized a major event in Tucson that has raised millions for End Polio Now. In this year of COVID-19 it organized virtual rides around the world in order to raise funds. Check out this Rotary Fellowship and the annual event by clicking here or on the image below.
Mark Zalewski is also a member of the local Bay View Bike Club, which had its regular rides scheduled for Saturday, October 24. Therefore, he combined the two events in order to raise some money for End Polio Now. He rode a total of 56 miles (five of them due to a wrong turn) and raised more than $1,000 for End Polio Now. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation will match these donations at a 2 for 1 level.
ERC members are encouraged to fulfill their pledged commitments, either directly through The Rotary Foundation (TRF) or by using the pledge form from Cycling2Serve. One can also send a check to ERC Foundation Treasurer, Gordy Mueller, for forwarding to TRF. Please also let Mark Z. know or include his name in the information to The Rotary Foundation so that the Elmbrook Rotary Club gets credit for the donation.
Thanks to all for supporting this World Polio Day fundraiser! And, special thanks for Mark Z. for doing this!
Earlier this summer the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) announced the 2020 recipients for its AVID Scholarships. These scholarships were awarded in an online setting and presented by Past President Mike Schmeling.
For the past several years, ERC has limited its scholarships to participants in the AVID program in the Elmbrook School District. Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is a school-wide approach to curriculum and rigor adopted by more than 4,000 schools in 45 states and 15 countries over 28 years. It is a research-based program that equips students to meet the challenges of rigorous coursework in high school and college. Also, AVID is closing the opportunity gap in college graduation rates among diverse and underrepresented demographic groups.
The 2020 ERC Scholarship recipients were:
Ms. Emma Harris - Brookfield Central
Receives $1000 annually for 4 years and will attend UW-Whitewater
Mr. Daniel Epple - Brookfield East
Receives $1000 annually for 4 years and will attend UW-Madison
Ms. Julia Hickey - Brookfield Central
Receives $1000 annually for 2 years and will attend Waukesha County Technical College
Congratulations to these three outstanding students as we encourage them to work hard and thrive in the next level of their education!
In its very first year, Walk For Hope showed that despite being physically distant, we've never been more united! Together, more than 1,060 generous donors and 402 walkers raised $100,000! Elmbrook Rotary Club contributed with 12 walkers and $1,193. Each dollar helps to fund 1,040+ months of programming for Common Hope students. The enthusiasm, generosity, and positive energy generated across borders and around the world are truly inspiring!
This month also includes the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty on the 17th and World Polio Day on the 24th of October.
Rotary supports investments in people to create measurable and enduring economic improvement in their lives and communities.
The Rotary Foundation enables Rotarians to invest in people by creating sustainable, measurable, and long term economic improvements in their communities and livelihoods by:
Building the capacity of entrepreneurs, community leaders, local organizations, and community networks to support economic development in impoverished communities;
Developing opportunities for productive work;
Reducing poverty in under-served areas; and
Supporting studies for career-minded professionals related to economic and community development.
October is Economic and Community Development Month
Please join the Elmbrook Rotary Club in celebrating our esteemed member Birthdays and Anniversaries in October.
“You don't waste October sunshine. Soon the old autumn sun would bed down in cloud blankets, and there would be weeks of gray rain before it finally decided to snow.” - Katherine Arden, Small Spaces
Ciara McHugh, the RI District 6270 Global Grant Scholar for 2018-2019, was the featured presenter for Elmbrook Rotary's Zoom "virtual meeting" on Friday, September 25.
Ciara is in her third year of a Ph.D. research studies program at Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland. Her RI Area of Focus is "Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution." Her specific research centers on the intersection and impact of technology (especially social media) on the tensions between police and minority communities. Click on the image of Ciara below to view a Zoom recording of her presentation.
During this past year, Ciara has also been instrumental in the formation and leadership of a Rotaract Club at QUB in Belfast. She joyfully shared that ongoing experience with ERC.
Both Elmbrook Rotary and all of RI District 6270 can be proud of the contributions of this budding scholar to the world at large and to Rotary International. She is a prime example of what supporting The Rotary Foundation can accomplish.
Elmbrook Rotary culminated its annual fundraising effort, "Spikes for Tykes," on Saturday, September 19, with a service project.
COVID-19 prevented the normal volleyball event as well as the celebratory silent auction banquet. Therefore, both club members and family members gathered in Mitchell Park in Brookfield to participate in Common Hope's "SponsorPalooza Virtual Walk for Hope." Approximately 20 participants walked the route and/or contributed toward the effort by making a financial contribution.
ERC's submitted donations have approached $1,000. However, commitments are still arriving, and fulfillment of pledges (or new submissions) are encouraged by no later than the end of the month. Common Hope's walk-a-thon results will be announced on October 1.
In addition, Dr. Dan Zomchek announced that he and his spouse Jennifer have committed to sponsoring a student at the Common Hope school in Guatemala as part of the "SponsorPalooza" challenge. They join a growing list of Elmbrook Rotary families who have done the same. To learn more about Common Hope, check out their programs at this URL.
So states the popular song in Hamilton, the broadway musical.
However, it appears that it won't be as quickly as we had hoped. In-person attendance on Friday mornings has not been what was originally projected, and The Western Racquet Club cannot financially justify the low numbers.
In-person meetings for Elmbrook Rotary Club are therefore suspended once again. We return to Zoom only.
The 10th Anniversary Edition of the Elm Grove News-Independent (September 2020) contains an article on Elmbrook Rotary's "Business Person of the Year" award.
The award recipient was announced (via Zoom) on Friday, August 14, 2020. The 2020 awardee was William ("Bill") Selzer, retired Fire Chief of the Village of Elm Grove Fire Department. Award committee chair (and ERC member) Ralph Gould announced the awardee and later presented him with the applicable plaque.
The story appears on p. 6 of this anniversary edition. Printed copies are available at many locations, including the Elm Grove Public Library, Sendik's, and Ace Hardware. The file can also be viewed online (click on ARCHIVE).
September is "Basic Education and Literacy" month in Rotary. Basic education and literacy is one of The Rotary Foundation’s six Areas of Focus. We know that basic education and literacy are essential for reducing poverty, improving health, encouraging community and economic development, and promoting peace. Read more to understand the challenges.
Avi Mylrea joined the ERC Zoom virtual meeting from Minnesota on Friday, August 28, and provided an update on how Common Hope in Guatemala is coping with COVID-19 and adapting to it. She shared a number of most exciting and creative ways in which Common Hope continues to care for the community in Guatemala. The Zoom session was recorded; therefore, simply click here or on the photo below to view the briefing.
Avi also reported on the following ways in which those interested can provide support to the Common Hope efforts in Guatemala:
Click here to sponsor a student! – By the way, WE HAVE A MATCH! The first month of every new sponsorship in September will be matched by a generous anonymous donor!
Elmbrook Rotary Club just concluded another successful drive for school supplies. Divided between the 95th Street School (K - 5th Grade; a SaintA school) and Cathy's Closet, the amount of items collected was phenomenal! Following is an inclusive, but not exhaustive, list: 20 backpacks, 431 markers of various kinds, more than 1,000 pencils, 50 packs of crayons, 115 pocket folders, 104 blue sticks, 480 legal pad sheets, tissues and hand sanitizers, 50 medical masks, 60 tooth brushes, 72 tubes of tooth paste, & 12 soccer balls.
Way to go, ERC! Specials thanks go out to Greg Bonk, Jan Constable, and Jack Nelson for spearheading the drive, collecting the items, and delivering to both organizations.
The World Health Organization (WHO) on August 25. 2020, announced that transmission of the wild poliovirus has officially been stopped in all 47 countries of its African region. This is an historic and vital step toward global eradication of polio, which is Rotary’s top priority.
[Click on the photo above to read the full story.]
Now that the African region is free of wild poliovirus, five of WHO’s six regions, representing more than 90 percent of the world’s population, are free of the disease. Polio caused by the wild virus is still endemic in Afghanistan and Pakistan (the WHO’s Eastern Mediterranean region).
In its virtual meeting (via Zoom) on Friday, August 14, 2020, Elmbrook Rotary Club announced the recipient of its "Business Person of the Year" award. The 2020 awardee is William ("Bill") Selzer, retired Fire Chief of the Village of Elm Grove Fire Department. [Click on the image above to view a video of the award presentation.]
Retired Chief Selzer provided 47 years of service to the Village of Elm Grove in its Fire Department. 31 of those years were as Fire Chief.
Interim Fire Chief David Kastenholz shared the following comments: "Bill was a respected leader in the fire service; his innovation and leadership skills were as strong as anyone I have ever worked with in the fire service or the corporate world. Bill understood how to treat the people he worked with. When things went well and there was praise to be given, he always made sure the department received it. Bill never needed nor did he want to be in the lime-light. Bill had a collaborative attitude; he knew we would always be a better department if we interacted with the other departments within the Village as well as our neighboring departments. Joint training and sharing of resources occurred while Bill was Chief. Bill was responsible for modernizing our apparatus and equipment. If we felt there was a piece of equipment that would help us do our job in a safer and more efficient manner, Bill was on-board. Bill's command presence was unflappable! No matter what was going, Bill remained cool, calm, and collected! That presence gave all of us the opportunity to do our jobs to the best of our ability."
Elmbrook Rotary Club also announced that it has named an annual two-year scholarship the "Elmbrook Rotary Bill Selzer First Responder Scholarship." This scholarship will be reserved for, and given to, selected students who desire to pursue a career as a first responder.
Congratulations to Fire Chief (Retired) Selzer! We salute you, and thank you for your service!
"Health Care in the U.S.: What are we investing and what are we getting in return?" was the focused topic for the guest speakers at Elmbrook Rotary on Friday, July 31.
Physicians for a National Health Program is a single issue organization advocating a universal, comprehensive single-payer national health program. PNHP has more than 20,000 members and chapters across the United States.
PNHP member, Dr. Roland Brilla, and second-year medical student Simon Yadgir addressed the topic.
The topic generated the most animated discussion at an ERC meeting in recent memory. In fact, the discussion continued way past the closing gavel and made its way into the ERC chat room in WhatsApp.
Do join Elmbrook Rotary Club any Friday morning for our meetings at 07:00 a.m. We are currently meeting virtually via Zoom and hope to initiate "hybrid" meetings (i.e., both in-person and virtual options) in September. Simply send a note to the club contact person on this web site for an invitation to join. You'll like what you see and experience!
On Friday, July 24, motivational speaker and author Roslyn Franken shared the amazing story of her parents, survivors of WW II, and her own personal story with Elmbrook Rotary.
Mr. Franken has authored her parents' story in a book entitled, Meant to Be, which will also be turned into a movie. In a follow-up message to ERC members, she writes the following: "If anyone would like a personally autographed copy of my book, Meant to Be, instead of ordering from Amazon, [you] can order it directly from my website at https://roslynfranken.com/buy-now.html. [You] just need to indicate in the PayPal checkout box the instructions how [you] want the book autographed and the exact name [you] would like me to sign it to. Thank you again for the wonderful opportunity to share my parents' story."
To hear her presentation, click here or on the graphic above. The video clip contains only her presentation and not the remainder of the club meeting.
Three former Rotary Youth Exchange students joined Elmbrook Rotary via Zoom on Friday, July 17, and provided an update of their lives and activities.
Joining the ERC weekly meeting were:
Otto Mattila, from Finland, 2013-2014, Brookfield East H.S.
Caroline (Carly) Hetzel, from Germany, 2011-2012, Brookfield East H.S.
Giovanna (Gi) Rezende, from Brazil, 2016-2017, Brookfield East H.S.
Fuka Sunagawa, from Japan, 2019-2020, Brookfield Central H.S.
To view/hear their greetings and updates, simply click here or on the photo above. The video file also contains the remainder of the July 17th meeting.
Elmbrook Rotary continues to conduct "virtual meetings" but is making plans for in-person (or "hybrid") meetings to begin soon. Stay tuned!
The recordings for each breakout session of the recently completed RI Virtual Convention can be accessed by clicking here or clicking on the image below.
Click the title of each breakout and you should be taken to the recording. If you are prompted to ‘sign up’ for the convention again, there should be a selection to check indicating that you have already signed up. In view of the current ERC survey concerning the format of our future meetings, especially recommended for viewing is "Using Virtual Tools To Engage Members" originally live streamed on Monday, June 22, at 08:00 a.m.
The RI Convention team is also in the process of transitioning the recordings to a digital asset management portal. The recordings will be accessible in that location after the end of July. Do take advantage of these resources.
Holger Knaack, member of the Rotary Club of Herzogtum-Lauenburg-Möln, Germany, is Rotary International President for 2020-2021.
A Rotary member since 1992, Knaack has served Rotary as treasurer, director, moderator, member and chair of several committees, representative for the Council on Legislation, zone coordinator, training leader, and district governor. He is an endowment/major gifts adviser and was co-chair of the Host Organization Committee for the 2019 Rotary International Convention in Hamburg. Knaack and his wife, Susanne, are Major Donors to The Rotary Foundation and members of the Bequest Society.
Rotary Opens Opportunities is the theme chosen by President Knaack for 2020-2021. At the International Assembly in San Diego in January 2020, he had the following to say about his theme: "So as you can see, Rotary is not just a club that you join. It is an invitation to endless opportunities. It opens opportunities to serve in a project as big and historic as End Polio Now and also in a small community project, where you just plant a tree. And it opens opportunities for you to live a richer, more meaningful life, with friends around the world, based on our core values. As Rotarians, we are very blessed to take on leadership roles at this wonderful moment for our organization. Everything we do opens another opportunity for someone, somewhere. Therefore, the theme for our year is: Rotary Opens Opportunities."
Rotary Creates Opportunities is the Rotary International theme for this year. RI President Holger Knaack recently said: “Don’t be afraid of change; continue to use new tools and adapt to change.”
I look forward to serving as President of the Elmbrook Rotary Club for the coming year. Our meetings will continue to be on Friday mornings at 7:00 a.m. via Zoom technology until it is appropriate to resume in-person meetings. Then, those meetings will likely be in a hybrid format with the option of attending via Zoom. Rotary International does not want members to feel compelled to attend any meeting or activities where they do not feel safe and comfortable. It will be our challenge to be open to opportunities to adapt to change while maintaining the traditions of fellowship and service that are the fabric of our club.
To help guide us, a survey will go out soon to learn of each member’s comfort levels. I am confident that, as a club, we will embrace the challenges ahead in this uncertain period as we find new ways to continue our mission.
In its Zoom-enabled virtual meeting on Friday, June 26, Elmbrook Rotary Club & Foundation installed its 2020-2021 Officers and Directors.
The names and positions are listed in the following JPEG images.
In addition, the entire Zoom session was recorded. Click on either JPEG image to view the 50-minute ERC meeting.
The club's sincere gratitude is offered to outgoing President Mike Schmeling and his fellow Officers/Directors for their faithful service during a most challenging year! And, best wishes go to incoming President Tom Hochuli and his administration for this next Rotary Year, which begins on July 1.
Installation of 2020-2021 Officers & Directors
The Elmbrook Rotary Club's "Straight Shooters" observed "June Is Rotary Fellowships Month" with an outing.
Harry Farchmin, the "Straight Shooters" coordinator, provides the following report: "The Rotary Straight Shooters (our local fellowship group of International Shooting Sports Rotarians) enjoyed a Sporting Clays outing at the Waukesha Gun Club on June 18, 2020. We had 13 Rotarians and guests join together to enjoy shooting on wonderful summer evening. Our group included five new shooters who all did very well and enjoyed the outing. The Rotary Straight Shooters have regular outings on the third Thursday of every month. Outings and registration information are posted on the Elm Brook Rotary Club and D-6270 Calendars."
Also, visit the RI Fellowships web page to learn more about the many opportunities for worldwide fellowships. Chances are that at least one group exists that will match your personal interests.
ERC member Linda Wickstrom has discontinued her "Hat Challenge" for ERC's weekly Zoom meetings and has issued a new challenge for finding and using the best Zoom Virtual Background.
To make use of the Virtual Background function in Zoom, one must have a computer or mobile phone that supports this function. Read a full-length "Zoom Support" article that discusses the required settings and the applicable settings within Zoom itself.
In addition, there is a big difference between using the Virtual Background function with or without a "green screen." And, one needs to scour the Internet to find the best still images and/or videos for incorporating into the Zoom meeting experience.
View the following YouTube videos for step-by-step instructions:
Rotary International also provides custom virtual background images for use on Zoom. Check out this YouTube video that explains how to find/download the images and how to install them within the Zoom software.
Happy hunting, learning, and experimenting! [If you need personal assistance, contact ERC member Larry Myers or ERC member Jackie Radomski.]
Ciara McHugh was the District 6270 Global Grant Scholar for 2018-2019. She is approaching her third year of a Ph.D. research program and has been instrumental in establishing a new Rotaract Club at her graduate school, Queen’s University Belfast. Following is her report.
" Early in the year, a group came together with the intention of creating a Rotaract chapter in Belfast, Northern Ireland. We were from a variety of disciplines, a range of countries, and each were introduced to Rotary in different ways. After a number of late-night brainstorming sessions at QUB's [Queen’s University Belfast’s] cafe (pre-lockdown, of course), we allocated board positions and made plans to get a Queen's University Belfast Rotaract Club off the ground.
"Theo, a Belfast native and active Interactor, was chosen as president; Veja, who is from Slovakia, volunteered her experiences from her Scottish Rotaract days as Outreach chair; Anna, a Global Grant scholar from Wisconsin, became secretary; and I volunteered as treasurer.
"Over the last few months, we've had to adjust our approaches and strategies to adapt to pandemic conditions. But, with ongoing support from the Belfast Rotary Club, our bi-weekly Zoom calls are full of the same energy and enthusiasm as those first brainstorming sessions. I'm pleased to say that our members have kept busy: with social distanced volunteering at Age-NI, donating energy bars to frontline and hospital workers, engaging with local racial-justice organizations, and organizing an online charity quiz to raise money for local pandemic efforts.
"I'm honored to be a part of such an encouraging and engaged group of Rotaractors, and I look forward to expanding our outreach in the years to come."
Anna DeWitt (the 2019-2020 GG Scholar from RI District 6220) is from Appleton, WI, and is shown in the photo holding the Appleton Rotary Club banner (mirror image on their Zoom meeting). Ciara McHugh, for whom Elmbrook Rotary served as local Rotary liaison during her 2018-2019 GG Scholarship, is holding a Whitnall Park Rotary Club banner. Clearly, the RI Global Grant Scholarship program, the Interact clubs, and Rotary clubs throughout the world are having an impact in these days of COVID-19 (and beyond).
Interestingly, Ciara's Ph.D. research is focusing on "how to ameliorate strained relationships between police and minority communities, specifically through visual technologies, and the ways in which gender paradigms can help overcome barriers between the two groups."
Congratulations, Ciara, on your continued involvement in Rotary! Keep on keeping on!
Michael Gosman, President & Chief Executive Officer of Acts Housing, was the featured speaker at Elmbrook Rotary Club's "virtual meeting" (via Zoom) on Friday, June 12.
Acts Housing provides one-on-one and online, HUD-approved homebuyer and financial counseling for individuals and families to help them become ready to buy.
As a real estate brokerage, Acts represents families in the purchase of homes, for owner occupancy, in Milwaukee and Beloit. Acts then helps families plan and execute home rehabilitation, with a focus on reclaiming vacant foreclosures. Their affiliated nonprofit partner, Acts Lending, Inc., provides mortgage loans for rehabilitation projects.
Acts serves diverse families throughout Milwaukee and Beloit. Many families purchase formerly vacant, vandalized foreclosures. Usually, rehab costs are less than demolition, and new owners save hundreds on their monthly housing costs.
Elmbrook Rotary has quite a few members who participate in "Straight Shooters," the local gathering of the Rotary "Shooting sport" Fellowship. Other ERC members belong to the "Beer" Rotary Fellowship.
ERC member and Club Treasurer Mark Zalewsky writes the following about his involvement in two Rotary Fellowships:
"If you haven't seen it yet, this month's [June edition of The] Rotarian has a small piece on Rotary Fellowships [p. 60]. Fellowships can be a way to extend the Rotarian spirit beyond just the Club level to the World beyond - through common interests or professional affiliations. Many of the Fellowships organize events that coincide with the International and Regional conferences. And, many events support Rotary causes while being fun in their own right.
"I am a member of the Cycling Fellowship (Cycling2Serve) and the Surfing Fellowship (long story). I've participated with over 200 Rotarians from all over the world - including RI Executive Secretary John Hewko and the RI staff - in the annual El Tour de Tucson and helped raise in excess of $7 million for End Polio Now. And, before COVID derailed the RI convention, the Surfing Fellowship had planned to have 500 surfers "Hang Ten" at Waikiki. Also, through social media we can stay connected with each other's activities.
An RI District 6270 member has been awarded with Rotary International's "Service Above Self" award! Nancy Rhodes of the West Allis Rotary Club is the honored recipient.
Rotary’s highest honor recognizes Rotarians who demonstrate Rotary’s motto, Service Above Self, by volunteering their time and talents to help others. The award is internationally competitive and is granted to no more than 150 Rotarians worldwide, and no more than one from each district, each year.
Nancy Rhodes is a DYNAMO! She is a strong, determined, compassionate, tireless, & effective leader, in & out of Rotary. Since joining Rotary in 1988 -just one year after the Supreme Court ruled Rotary clubs may not exclude women based on gender- Nancy has held leadership positions at all levels of Rotary - from Club to International. Her husband, Don Drecktrah, is also a Rotarian.
Nancy personifies what the Service Above Self award is all about. She is extremely dedicated to Rotary, and particularly to The Rotary Foundation, where she works diligently to identify prospective donors. As one member/donor put it, “She may be little, but Nancy can pick you up and shake you until every last nickel falls out of your pockets. And… she does it with a smile.”
She is generous with her time, talents, & knowledge; her calendar is always full of Rotary meetings, events, & projects. Nancy never expects from others what she herself does not give, often many times over. What many aren’t aware of is her accomplishments behind the scenes: advocating & promoting support of people, ideas, & projects; quietly inspiring others to give money for causes; identifying people’s talents/capabilities & getting them involved in areas where they can make an impact. It is work with many hours of organizing, directing & being on one’s feet, the results of which many take for granted.
Nancy was one of the first women to join a Rotary club. After decades of service at the local, district, zone, and international levels, she is now duly recognized. Congratulations, Nancy!
Bill Tobin, Rotary Relations Manager and ShelterBox Ambassador for ShelterBoxUSA, provided an update briefing to Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) on Friday, May 29. You can view his entire slide show briefing by clicking here. As a result of his briefing, ERC member Doug Jacobson began a donation challenge that has produced more than $2,000 for ShelterBox USA.
Right now, more than 88 million people around the world have been made homeless by natural disaster and conflict. ShelterBox is working to change this. View this video that traces 20 years of ShelterBox impact.
By providing emergency shelter and tools for families robbed of their homes by disaster, Shelter Box is transforming despair into hope. ShelterBox teams work with disaster-hit families around the world, offering emergency shelter and other essential items to support them in rebuilding their lives.
Every disaster is different and so is every community; so ShelterBox spends time with those affected to make sure they can offer the right support at the right time to help them recover.
See the following resources for learning more about, and following, the efforts of ShelterBox:
On Friday, May 22, ERC member and TRF (The Rotary Foundation) rep for the club, Tom Curl, provided a motivational report to Elmbrook Rotary Club that encouraged support of TRF.
Usually, when "Foundation" is mentioned, ERC members think of the Elmbrook Rotary Club Foundation, which annually provides approximately $70,000 to charitable organizations both nationally and internationally. Click here or on the image below to read about the ERC Foundation work during the 2018-2019 Rotary Year.
However, Tom's emphasis was on The Rotary Foundation globally and how to donate. A handful of other ERC members provided testimonies of how they have made commitments to TRF through personal wills, family estate trusts, IRA distributions, and outright gifts. Emphasis was also given to the "Million Dollar Journey" of RI District 6270. Joining the meeting was Nancy Rhodes, a Past District Governor of District 6270 and current Endowment/Major Gifts Advisor for Zone 29.
ERC members who shared their stories nearly unanimously made mention of ERC's own international efforts at the Common Hope school in Guatemala and credited that involvement as an incentive for their own commitments to The Rotary Foundation.
Dr. Jeffrey Reed was the featured speaker at Elmbrook Rotary Club's "virtual meeting" on Friday, May 15. Jeff is a Past District Governor of RI District 6270 and has made numerous trips to India in support of club projects and polio immunization efforts in that country. He provided an excellent overview of Polio Eradication efforts in India as well as examples of "Indian Rotary Clubs' Commitment to Service Above Self."
Prior to his current role as Dean of the School of Business at Marian University in Fond du Lac, Dr. Reed served as Director of the Management Program, Director of the Honors Program, Interim Director of Institutional Research, Faculty Senate President, and Co-Executive Director of the Center for Spirituality and Leadership. He received the Underkofler Award for excellence in undergraduate teaching, and he was a visiting professor at Harlaxton College in 2006.
Indian Rotary Clubs Commitment to Service Above Self
After two unsuccessful Friday morning connections with Dr. Jane Baker Koons in India, several members of Elmbrook Rotary Club were able to effect and record a Zoom video conference with her.
Dr. Jane Baker Koons has been an Educational Consultant to Schools in India since 2007. She was instrumental in an Elmbrook Rotary Club TRF Global Grant several years ago.
View her 29-minute update by clicking here or on the image below.
You can access more information about Dr. Koons and her work by clicking here.
Elmbrook Rotary Club "virtual meetings" continued on Friday, May 8, at 7:00 a.m. (via Zoom) with special guests from Serenity Inns: Ellen Blathers and Virginia Zignego.
Serenity Inns works with men who are the fringes of society – men who are estranged from friends and family, homeless, recently released from prison, addicted to drugs or alcohol – and engages them in a structured, long-term rehab program, which includes housing for alumni. Serenity Inns recently was awarded “Best in Milwaukee” by the Shepherd Express in the Alcohol & Drug Rehab Center category. Ellen Blathers is the co-founder and Executive Director of Serenity Inns. Ms. Blathers received a Black Excellence Award from the Milwaukee Times in 2019; she was also runner-up for the Nonprofit Executive of the Year Award in 2017. Virginia Zignego is the Director of Development & Administration.
Quality Transitional Living Program for Recovering Persons
Like many Rotary Clubs in the United States, the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) has a tradition of opening our meetings with “Happy Fines ($).” The “Happy Fine” has a storied place in Rotary history and in our local club as a way to get members talking beyond their immediate table about what’s new in their lives, family, jobs, and the community. Members typically contribute a dollar or several dollars for their “happiness/news,” and all of us enjoy hearing about what’s going on in one another’s lives.
Since the onset of COVID-19, we’ve suspended in-person meetings and now have virtual meetings via Zoom. This past Friday’s meeting ran long due to our speaker and an update on coronavirus stats & responses in Waukesha County. We had to cut short our day-in-review, the joke of the day, and our “Happy” discussion. Not to be deterred, a number of ERC members turned to the ERC WhatsApp group to share their “Happy” news and to offer contributions in support of COVID-19 relief. Bill Severson kicked it off with a contribution, a match, and a poker challenge. Then we were off and running. Several members responded to the challenge. We had commitments for several hundred dollars when Kathy Becker “upped the ante,” and commitments really took off. We crossed the $1,000 mark, and the momentum continued. After a few hours, we surpassed our self-made $2,000 goal with contributions from 20 members. The ERC Foundation Board of Directors will determine the specific organizations to which the funds will be sent.
Special thanks and shout-outs to: Jeanne Allen, John Allen, Pati Allen-Brickman, Kathy Becker, Bonnie Bertram, Phyllis Blodgett, Sue Cerletty, Tom Curl, Linda Edelstein, Harry Farchmin, Ralph Gould, Tom Hochuli, Doug Jacobson, Andy McCully, Larry Myers, Kevin Roche, Chris Salani, Bill Severson, Noaman Sharief, & Mark Thurner. Way to go, ERC!!!
NEWS FLASH: The ERC Foundation has offered a matching grant, U.S. $1 per $1, up to $12,000 (which includes the $2,150 already raised) for COVID-19 support to three local organizations. More details will be forthcoming.
Wisconsin State Senator Dale Kooyenga was the featured speaker at the "virtual meeting" of the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) on Friday, April 17. Attendance totaled some 60 ERC members and guests, continuing to outpace the average attendance at in-person meetings.
Senator Kooyenga addressed the impact of COVID-19 on the State of Wisconsin and the state's response to it. He also fielded many questions from ERC membership, provoking much discussion.
ERC virtual meetings continue to provide top-quality topics and speakers. Don't miss them - every Friday online at 7:00 a.m. via the Zoom application.
ERC's second virtual meeting occurred on Friday, April 10, with 53 members and guests in attendance. Brett R. Bennett of the SKYGEN USA organization was the featured speaker. Brett has been on three separate humanitarian missions to Tanzania, Africa, as part of a team to establish mobile vision clinics, train local staff, and provide much needed vision testing and eyeglasses to tens of thousands of local Tanzanians in need. In addition to his briefing, he spoke of an RI Global Grant that is being written in order to benefit those whom SKYGEN assists.
Rotary International's new monthly theme for April is Maternal and Child Health!
Every day mothers risk their lives giving birth, and millions of children die each year from treatable, preventable causes. At least 7 million children under the age of five die each year due to malnutrition, poor health care, and inadequate sanitation. To help reduce this rate, Rotary provides immunizations and antibiotics to babies, improves access to essential medical services, and supports trained health care providers for mothers and their children. Rotary’s projects ensure sustainability by empowering the local community to take ownership of health care training programs.
Maternal and Child Health Care is also recognized as one of Rotary’s Six Areas of Focus.
To get more information and read news about Rotary's work to promote maternal and child health can be found at the link below:
Linda Wickstrom, a member of Elmbrook Rotary Club, is the Public Information Officer for the Waukesha County Emergency Operations Center (EOC). She offers the following report:
"We are living in a time that none of us could have anticipated. And though our public health professionals in Waukesha County have been tracking the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) for months, its far-reaching impact is unprecedented. I can assure you that Waukesha County has mounted an organized, proactive, coordinated response to this pandemic.
"As of March 18, the Waukesha County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) fully activated to its highest level. I was deployed as Public Information Officer, a role that I’ve been training for through Homeland Security and FEMA for three years. The EOC is the County’s coordinated center of emergency management for Waukesha County municipalities, hospitals, EMS, law enforcement, and other agencies to actively work together to share resources and make decisions quickly as this situation develops.
"While almost all of the County’s non-essential employees are working virtually, we remain open for business, though how services are provided has changed to ensure the safety of residents and employees.
"There are a couple ways you can stay well informed about the County’s response:
"Thank you for following the guidelines to wash your hands, practice social distancing, and stay at home when you can. Stay safe. Slow the spread. Flatten the curve."
Elmbrook Rotary Club's first "virtual meeting" occurred on Friday, April 3. It was a rip-roaring success with 63 participants!
ERC's own, Dr. Mark Bruce, was the featured speaker. He again related his personal story and personal communications with Jackie Kennedy when she was the nation's First Lady. Dr. Bruce's story appears in his book entitled, Jackie, a Boy, and a Dog: A Warm Cold War Story (now in its second printing). His web site (www.JackieBoyDog.com) contains a composite of his meaningful and motivational personal story, including video clips and how to purchase the book. His 39-minute ERC presentation can be accessed by clicking here or on the image below.
Dr. Bruce, an emergency medicine physician who has led multiple international medical mercy trips, also used the occasion to speak about COVID-19 and his own personal involvement here in the State of Wisconsin. He insisted that God provides skills and grace to each individual and that the current global pandemic is an opportunity to put those skills and grace to good use for the sake of our neighbor.
Elmbrook Rotary Club intends to schedule regular online "virtual meetings." ERC leadership will provide notices and instructions concerning when, what, and how to participate.
Because of the COVID-19 global pandemic, both the District 6270 "Celebrate 2020" Conference (scheduled for May 1-2 in Oshkosh, WI) and the Rotary International Convention (scheduled for June 6-10 in Honolulu, Oahu, HI) have been canceled.
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Hotel reservations in Oshkosh have been automatically canceled, and District Conference registrants will be contacted for a full refund. Likewise, the RI committee is working diligently to inform convention registrants and to issue refunds for the International Convention. Detailed information regarding the RI Convention can be accessed here.
Canceled: District 6270 Conference & RI Convention
Pres. Michael Schmeling, on behalf of Elmbrook Rotary Club, inducted and welcomed its newest member, Carol Stearns, on Friday, March 13. John Allen, ERC Membership Chair, serves as Carol's sponsor.
Carol is a Family Risk Advisor for Mil-Town Associates American Family Insurance, with offices in Elm Grove. Carol’s role as a Family Risk Advisor II allows her to help her clients protect what matters most to them and help them realize their dreams. Carol has resided in Elm Grove, Wisconsin, since 1996. Her husband John is a Senior Mortgage Loan Originator for American Fidelity Mortgage Services, Inc. Grown sons, Christian and Evan, are currently studying to become a pastor and a teacher, respectively. The family enjoys ping pong, concerts, time spent in a small log cabin in the north woods, as well as traveling to other new and familiar places. Carol is an avid runner and serves on the Altar Guild at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.
Dr. Mark Hansen, Superintendent of the Elmbrook School District since 2012, was welcomed at Elmbrook Rotary Club on Friday, March 13.
He presented a most informative update on the school district, including impending actions in an attempt to control the spread of COVID-19. Elmbrook School District continues to excel in every aspect under his leadership, embracing the motto, "Every Student, Every Time, All the Time." The marks of excellence are everywhere, from the restraints on property taxation and referendums to the achievements of students.
Elmbrook Rotary was among the first to learn of the move of the school district to online virtual learning on March 16. Dr. Hanson's presentation is a great example of the benefits of membership at Elmbrook Rotary Club. Join us on Friday mornings, 7:00 a.m., at the Western Racket Club in Elm Grove. PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE IS NO MEETING ON MARCH 20 & MARCH 27! We too are sensitive to defeating the menace of the coronavirus.
Mark Hansen, Elmbrook School District Superintendent, at ERC
Due to the increasing severity of the COVID-19 global pandemic, the State of Wisconsin has issued "Emergency Order #12 Safer at Home Order." This order became effective at 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 25, 2020, and will remain in effect until 8:00 a.m. on Friday, April 24, 2020, or until a superseding order is issued.
Therefore, the Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) will NOT MEET in person until further notice. ERC members are encouraged to stay in touch via the "Elmbrook Rotary Club" group chat room that has been established on WhatsApp. In addition, the ERC leadership has arranged for "virtual meetings." The Zoom application will be used for these "virtual meetings." Notification and instructions for each "virtual meeting" are sent to club membership.
Sunagawa Fuka ("Fuka") is the ERC's Rotary Youth Exchange student for 2019-2020. She attends Brookfield Central High School. Hailing from Japan (southwest of Tokyo), she had the opportunity to share the highlights of her year with Elmbrook Rotary at its breakfast meeting on Friday, March 6. Her presentation was enthusiastically received by all in attendance, including her two host families for this academic year who joined the club for breakfast.
ERC learned from Fuka that she shares the birthday of our nation (July 4). Club members in attendance also learned much about her family in Japan, various Japanese cultural traditions, and her own school and extracurricular activities in Japan.
ERC is exceedingly proud of this "brave" young lady and looked forward to her remaining months in our midst. Unfortunately, COVID-19 removed those remaining months. Fuka left Wisconsin early on the morning of Tuesday, March 24. Online schooling prevented the cultural and language learning of the student exchange program, and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe mandated a two-week quarantine for anyone (citizen & non-citizen) arriving in Japan after midnight on Wednesday, March 25. Therefore, Fuka avoided the 14-day quarantine by traveling to her home before the mandate took effect. We will miss her!
Tom Hochuli, President Elect of Elmbrook Rotary Club, participated in the 2020 Midwest PETS in Itaska, IL, during the weekend of March 6-8 and was commissioned for his year of service that begins on July 1. This year's training seminar was privileged to welcome Holger Knaack, RI President 2020-2021, who is from the Rotary Club of Herzogtum Lauenburg-Mölln, Germany.
Tom Hochuli, President of ERC for 2020-2021,
is commissioned for his year of service.
The Rotary Midwest President-Elect Training Seminar (PETS) is one of the largest multi-district PETS in the United States. It was formed in 2012 with a view to becoming a premier training event with the atmosphere of a mini Rotary International Convention by leveraging the expertise and buying power of seven Rotary Districts from Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin: Districts 6220, 6250, 6270, 6420, 6440, 6450, & 6460. Larry Myers, ERC member and an Assistant Governor (Area E) for RI District 6270, also attended the 2020 PETS.
Holger Knaack, RI President for 2020-2021, addresses the 2020 Midwest PETS
With the ability to host exceptional speakers, informative workshops, detailed district training sessions, fellowship and networking, the basic purpose of the Midwest PETS is to motivate the 500+ attendees—including club presidents-elect, presidents-elect nominees, and assistant governors—to ensure they are extremely well prepared for their year of service.
LAUNCH is a program within the Elmbrook School District that is supported by Elmbrook Rotary Club. Instructors develop real-world, project-based learning strategies through collaborations with business and community partners. These interactions enhance the learning experience, preparing students for college and career. Many ERC members have assisted in this effort.
The March 2020 newsletter of LAUNCH is available for your reading and interest. Simply click on the image below.
It has been a month since our team returned from a week in Guatemala. These were not beach-goers but rather workers partnering with Common Hope, an NGO based in St. Paul, MN. In the colonial city of Antigua, at 5,000 feet in the highlands, they had brisk mornings followed by temperatures in the high 70s during the day, and unfailing sunshine.
This year’s team was the 10th we have sent since our first full team traveled in 2012. It was unique in that this time we had Rotarians and spouses from four neighboring Rotary clubs: Mukwonago, Mequon-Thiensville Sunrise, Mitchell Field, and Oconomowoc. There was an amazing vibe as the 11 people got to know each other well very early in the week, working side by side on the house construction project, and all the other activities that typify the week of service way above self. Team Leader Wally Smanski wrote the following, describing the activity of implementating the District Grant which we received for the purchase of medical supplies and prescription drugs for the health center:
“Our Vision team visit to Common Hope in Guatemala included the following activities in support of our District Grant. Our initial task included counting and sorting pills for the pharmacy at the clinic. Availability of basic meds is critical to healthy families. We then participated in eyeglass distribution to 35 children who had eye exams and required corrective lens. The process was a celebration event for the children and their parents. An ice-breaker activity reinforced the value of good eyesight in everyday life. In a classroom setting, proper eyecare and eyeglass care were explained during a presentation by a clinic nurse. The actual eyeglass distribution ceremony was amazing. The doctor read each child's name, and our team members presented them with their eyeglasses and took a photo to remember this special event. Sandwiches and juice completed a wonderful experience.”
Part of our support of Common Hope is the sponsoring of Guatemalan children to enable them to remain in school. The “model” adopted is to expose our team members to families and children, and that has automagically led to more than 35 sponsorships over the years. This time, Matt and Lynn Zach of the Oconomowoc Rotary Club “adopted” a little girl, and the heartwarming photos below provide a sense of the joy on both sides. It is not necessary to travel to Guatemala to become a sponsor, and we can help arrange a match for anyone who is interested.
Beyond that, there are plans for trip #11 in February of 2021, and Elmbrook Rotarians new and old are encouraged to inquire about it. We will need to have a strong level of interest by May 31 in order to be able to proceed with making the arrangements. It is first come, first served, with a few spots reserved for “first timers.” In early 2011, an intrepid ERC foursome traveled to several places in Guatemala, at their own expense, to research possibilities for “boots on the ground” participation in an international project (a major charge to the International Committee by ERC President Charley Shirley). Since then, we have had 23 additional Elmbrook Rotarians, 10 guest Rotarians representing 8 other clubs, 16 spouses, 12 family members, and 12 friends make the trip, almost half of them multiple times. Team sizes have ranged from 10 to 17, each having a slightly different dynamic, and as in many things, the more the merrier.
So consider joining us. It is a “life changing” experience as anyone who has been part of a team will tell you. Not one person has come back without being an enthusiastic supporter of the program and the fundamental concept of helping create an environment where literacy and education can take the place of agricultural child labor. Activities in health, housing, and family development are all components of reaching that goal.
You can view the team's entire photo album on the ERC web site by clicking here.
R.J. Hottovy, CFA, is a director of equity analysis with Morningstar. On Friday, February 28, he provided a most interesting presentation to Elmbrook Rotary Club that contained his reasons for why Amazon is a great investment, both now and especially in the future.
Mr. Hottovy makes the following observations: "Our analysis suggests that Amazon Web Services and Amazon Advertising are not receiving the credit they deserve from the market, and we still identify multiple paths to margin expansion for the company's online and physical retail segments in the years to come, even against an uncertain global economic backdrop."
Do visit Elmbrook Rotary on any Friday morning at 7:00 a.m. for breakfast and for other thought-challenging presentations.
Elmbrook Rotary was treated to a thorough briefing about the structure and activities of WI's Department of Natural Resources on Friday, February 21, by Joseph Liebau, Jr.
Joe Liebau has worked with the WI DNR for many years and has served in multiple positions during his career. He was named southeast secretary's director in September 2016. Before coming to the DNR, Joe worked for WasteCap Resource Solutions for eight years. Previous to that Joe worked for Brown County in their Hazardous Waste Department.
DNR's secretary's directors serve as the department's eyes, ears, and voice throughout the state, ensuring prompt attention to local issues and improved responsiveness to opportunities. The secretary's five directors act with the full authority of DNR Secretary Preston D. Cole to build relationships, resolve challenges for DNR customers, and integrate citizen feedback to improve service. The secretary's directors have offices in northern, northeastern, west central, south central, and southeastern Wisconsin.
This presentation is just one of many excellent learning opportunities provided by Elmbrook Rotary every Friday morning (7:00 a.m.) at the Western Racket Club in Elm Grove. Join us some Friday for breakfast and, at the same time, increase your knowledge about the community and about the worldwide work of Rotary.
Chosen, a Christian-based foster-care and adoption support non-profit organization, exists to Foster Forever Families so that all children can experience a safe and loving home.
Amalie Bowling, Co-Founder (with husband Jason) and Executive Director, explained the mission and activities of Chosen to Elmbrook Rotary Club on Friday, February 14.
"Equip, Encourage, Engage" aspires to help with items or experiences that can directly benefit foster children with special needs. "Community Outreach" wishes to educate and inform the wider community about foster care, adoption topics, and the unique needs of foster and adoptive families. "The Family Closet" utilizes community donations to help foster and adoptive families to shop for clothing, baby items, school supplies, toys, and other new items needed for children in out-of-home care. "Boxes of Blessing" is a program that give churches and other organizations a chance to sponsor a donation box to collect "new" items for "The Family Closet."
More information on Chosen can be accessed on their web site (www.choseninlove.org) or their Facebook page (@ourchosenfamily).
Drew Burgoyne of Channel 58 Ready Weather provided a most informative and interesting briefing to Elmbrook Rotary on Friday, February 7.
Primary topic was severe weather in the United States and especially in Wisconsin. He engaged the ERC membership actively in understanding the risks and preparatory actions in dealing with severe weather situations. Wisconsin averages more than 20 tornadoes each year, but in 2005 there were more than 60 tornadoes in our state. He highly recommended that each family own, and use, a weather radio in their home.
This presentation is one of many highly interesting topics that are covered weekly at Elmbrook Rotary Club. We meet at 07:00 a.m. at the Western Racket Club in Elm Grove, WI, and would be pleased to have you join us, not only to enjoy the breakfast and speaker but also to learn about the work of Rotary throughout the world.
Millions of people all over the world are currently displaced by armed conflict or persecution. In fact, 90% of casualties in armed conflicts are civilians, half of which are children. Through service projects and Rotary programs, the Rotary family is committed to pursuing projects that address the structural causes of conflict, including poverty, inequality, ethnic tension, lack of access to education, and unequal distribution of resources.
Rotarians train adults and young leaders to prevent and mediate conflict, and aid refugees who have fled dangerous areas. During February, Rotary Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution Month, we’re celebrating our commitment to build peace and mitigate conflict.
Elmbrook Rotary Club welcomed back a twice-former member and long-time Rotarian, Dr. Sridhar Vasudevan, on Friday, January 31.
Dr. Vasudevan addressed the membership on the topic of "pain." He has done much research and writing on the topic of pain management, having remained a practitioner in the field to this very day. One of his publications is entitled Multidisciplinary Management of Chronic Pain. The monograph can be purchased and downloaded as an eBook by clicking here. Dr. Vasudevan briefed the club membership on two of the prominent theories of pain and how to manage it.
This presentation is a great example of what ERC members profit from each week at the Western Racket Club in Elm Grove, WI. Join us any Friday for breakfast at 07:00 a.m. and enjoy both the fellowship and the presentations.
WHAT DOES THE ROTARY FOUNDATION DO WITH ITS MONEY?
The Rotary Foundation spends charitable contributions on multiple programs - from the eradication of polio, to scholarships, vocational training teams, Rotary Peace Centers, and humanitarian projects. The funds are used for programs and projects Rotarians feel passionate about. With a four-star rating by Charity Navigator for ten years in a row and over 1.2 million Rotarians overseeing the funds at a grassroots level, you have all the confidence in the world that your funds through Rotary are in amazing hands doing amazing work here and abroad.
Stacie Estrada, a Wisconsin artist currently living in Menomonee Falls,WI, provided a presentation to Elmbrook Rotary on Friday, January 17, concerning the values of art in the world.
Self-taught with high school and WCTC classes behind her, she insists that it's the experience and working with other artists that has helped her grow. Her works include more than 30 murals and 50+ paintings. She has sold and customized over 40 commissioned pieces locally in parade of homes, businesses, and homes. It's seeing the customers' reactions she loves the best.
Her latest custom art business is a joint effort with her daughter and husband. Called "Believe Custom Art and Design," they offer live wedding paintings as well as custom pieces for individuals. You can view their work and business offerings at: www.believecustomart.com
She has also owned Uptown Art studio in Sussex since 2013. She prides herself on helping others explore the art world and helping kids and adults value and admire art through the studio.
ERC members enjoy presentations like this every week on Fridays (7:00 a.m.) at the Western Racket Club in Elm Grove. Drop by for breakfast, enjoy the speaker, and consider joining the world of Rotary.
John "Jack" Melloh died on January 8, 2020. A former, longtime member of Elmbrook Rotary Club, he was well-known, much loved, and highly respected by ERC members.
Also a formerly ordained Roman Catholic priest, he spent some 10 years in the priesthood before meeting and marrying Mary Ann (Gautsch), who was known as "Sister Jeremy" in her own religious order and who preceded him in death. Together they had one son, Michael. A complete obituary can be read at: https://www.beckerritter.com/tributes/John-Melloh. A donation to the Alzheimer’s Association or Habitat for Humanity is encouraged.
Please join the Elmbrook Rotary Club in celebrating our esteemed member Birthdays and Anniversaries in January.
“JANUARY, The first month of the year, A perfect time to start all over again, Changing energies and deserting old moods, New beginnings, new attitudes” ― Charmaine J Forde
Adherence to and promotion of the highest ethical standards in all occupations, including fair treatment of employers, employees, associates, competitors, and the public.
The recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations, not just those that are pursued by Rotarians.
The contribution of your vocational talents to solving the problems of society and meeting the needs of the community.
During January, Rotarians are encouraged to focus on this important avenue of Rotary service. Discussions on vocational service can lead to projects that not only develop the ethical consciousness and vocational skills of Rotarians but also the talents within their communities. Vocational Service Month is an opportunity to begin year-long vocational service activities, ranging from Rotary discussions to awards to community projects.
Guest speaker at ERC on Friday, January 3, was Susan K. Wehrley, founder and owner of BIZremedies. Her focus is to ALIGN individuals and companies to their best selves as they reach their vision, values, and goals. She accomplishes this through the ALIGN program, which is an accumulation of the best practices from Susan’s Leadership, Teamwork, and Customer Service programs. In addition to the more traditional development practices, the ALIGN program also increases mindfulness and effective decision-making by increasing Gut Intelligence.
During her presentation, Susan taught ERC members the S.T.O.P Technique in order to Slow down, Tune in within, Observe what is happening around oneself and within oneself, and to Perceive the best possibility. The hoped-for result is the making of decisions from a clear, calm, and confident self in the new year!
Approximately 25 ERC Rotarians and family members gathered at the new Outback Steakhouse facility in Brookfield on New Year's Day to cheer on the UW-Madison Badgers football team in the Rose Bowl. It was also a chance to celebrate the New Year's Day birthday of Evonne Zalewski, spouse of ERC Treasurer, Mark Zalewski.
Unfortunately, the Badgers fell one point short of Oregon in this 108th Rose Bowl. This was the 10th appearance of the Badgers in a Rose Bowl. They have won three times (having lost to Oregon twice). The loss did not dampen the enthusiasm of the ERC cheerleaders.
ERC Rotarian Tom Curl and spouse Lynda had the unique opportunity to assist in preparing flowers for the floats in the 2020 Rose Bowl Parade. Tom shares the following:
"We are part of a tour group. Worked one day preparing roses to be put on floats. We did thousands of pink roses and younger, more nimble volunteers scrambled over the scaffolding and planks to put the roses on the surfaces. Today, we had close-up bleacher seats for the parade. The floral displays were amazing!"
The Rotary International float won the "Tournament Volunteer Trophy." Congrats to all Rotarians worldwide!
Elmbrook Rotary Club was a major sponsor for the Brookfield German Holiday Market on Saturday, December 7, 2019, by providing the hayride and by assisting with other events in addition.
Members of the ERC-sponsored Brookfield Central and Brookfield East Interact Clubs also assisted with a raffle that garnered approximately $600 for the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation.
Thanks to all ERC and Interact members who helped make the afternoon a most enjoyable experience for all who came!
Rachel Greenhow, Major Gifts Coordinator for The Rotary Foundation (TRF), briefed the ERC on Friday, December 13, regarding the various ways to support the worldwide work of Rotary through providing major gifts to TRF.
Ms. Greenhow centered her presentation on explaining the following categories of gifts: Rotary Foundation Sustaining Member, Paul Harris Fellow, Paul Harris Society, Bequest Society, and Major Donor. Details of these various recognitions, including the Arch Klumph Society and the Legacy Society, can be examined in detail at: https://www.rotary.org/en/donate/recognition
Tom Curl, ERC representative for TRF, also briefly explained "The Million Dollar Journey," a recently launched combined effort of RI Districts 6270 & 6220. Details of this effort can be read by clicking here.
On Saint Lucy's Day (December 13), two ERC Rotarians were presented with Paul Harris Fellow recognition.
Tom Curl was recognized with his 9th Paul Harris Fellow award, and Kate Bloomberg presented Paul Harris Fellow recognition to Scott Dryburgh.
The Paul Harris Fellow recognition is achieved when you give $1,000 or more to the Annual Fund, PolioPlus, or an approved Foundation grant. To recognize someone else as a Paul Harris Fellow, you can give that amount in their name. Learn more about Paul Harris Fellow recognition.
Patrick Kris Klepacz, an Elmbrook Rotary Club member since June 2019, died suddenly on Sunday, December 8, 2019.
Born in Poland, Patrick was brought to the United States as an immigrant at the age of six months. A graduate of Franklin H.S. and UW-Milwaukee, he met his spouse Weronika (also from Poland) in Sheboygan. For the past number of years the couple had been living in Milwaukee, where Patrick engaged in nonprofit work.
The annual meetings of both Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) and the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation (ERF) occurred on Friday morning, December 6, 2019, at the Western Racket Club in Elm Grove, WI.
All active members of the ERC are automatically members of the ERF. In addition to approving minutes of last year’s annual meeting, the members of the ERC took the following election actions pertaining to its Board of Directors and Officers (effective July 1, 2020):
Jackson Bubolz, Director, Three-Year Term, Class of 2023 Jim Dunn, Director, Two-Year Term, Class of 2022 Tom Curl, Director-Past President, One-Year Term, Class of 2021 Mark Zalewski, Treasurer, Three-Year Term Christine Spresser, Sergeant-at-Arms, One-Year Term (succeeding to Secretary, Vice President, and President in successive years).
Convening as the ERF, members also approved last year’s annual meeting minutes and took the following election actions pertaining to ERF Board of Directors and Officers (effective July 1, 2020):
Jackson Bubolz, Director, Three-Year Term, Class of 2023 Jim Dunn, Director, Two-Year Term, Class of 2022 Tom Curl, Director-Past President, One-Year Term, Class of 2021 Gordy Miller, Treasurer, Three-Year Term.
December is Rotary Disease Prevention and Treatment month. Rotary is dedicated to fighting and preventing disease. Disease Prevention and Treatment is one of Rotary’s Six Area of Focus. Disease and illness result in pain and injury. Prolonged severe illness may result in loss of employment and income. It affects families. It affects quality of life.
Rotary and Rotarians are committed to helping people to live healthy lives. Our signature project in this area is Polio Eradication. But polio is not the only disease or aspect of healthy living on which Rotarians have expended energies.
Elmbrook Rotary Club has been awarded a 2018-2019 Rotary Citation with Presidential Distinction. Award of the basic citation required meeting at least nine (9) goals established by Rotary International. However, ERC went above and beyond by accomplishing 2/3 goals established by the 2018-2019 RI President. This resulted in a "Gold Distinction" in addition to the basic citation. Congratulations to all!
RI District 6270 Assistant Governor Larry Myers
presents a "2018-2019 Rotary Citation with Gold Distinction"
We welcome Karyn Gimbel Youso as the newest member of Elmbrook Rotary Club. Karyn lives in Elm Grove and is a divorce attorney and mediator. She owns and operates First Look Family Law in Brookfield.
ERC President Michael Schmeling and sponsor, Pati Allen Brickman,
The Rotary Foundation (TRF) has received the highest rating - four stars - from Charity Navigator, an independent evaluator of charities in the U.S. More Rotarians, and others, see the wonderful results of our projects and scholarships worldwide, and they are using TRF as their “Charity of Choice” in their annual giving and their estate plans.
So, in cooperation with District 6220 to our North, District 6270 has decided to have a little fun and, together, we have set out on a Million Dollar Journey. The goal for our two districts together is to find and recognize NEW Major gifts to the Foundation.
For a number of years Elmbrook Rotary Club has financially sponsored a program entitled, "Veterans in Focus." The intent is to provide Veterans with the opportunity for self-exploration and self-discovery through photography-based interventions that promote personal healing, recovery, and overall health and wellbeing. Two sessions per year are offered.
The photo exhibit this year is at the Humphreys Memorial Chapel Narthex and is available for viewing during November 11-22.
A slide show is also available for viewing on YouTube. If unable to view below, simply navigate to the following URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=584a2BF87JE&feature=youtu.be. The background music is by Tim Clausen of Jazz Helping, and the photography venues this year include Brady Street, North Point Lighthouse and Sunrise, Jones Island, Tripoli Shrine, Pabst Mansion, and Harley Davidson Museum.
Please join the Elmbrook Rotary Club in celebrating our esteemed member Birthdays and Anniversaries in November.
“Don't wait until the fourth Thursday in November, to sit with family and friends to give thanks. Make every day a day of Thanksgiving!” - Charmaine J. Forde
The Rotary Foundation transforms your gifts into projects that change lives both close to home and around the world. As the charitable arm of Rotary International, we tap into a global network of Rotarians who invest their time, money, and expertise into our priorities, such as eradicating polio and promoting peace. Foundation grants empower Rotarians to approach challenges such as poverty, illiteracy, and malnutrition with sustainable solutions that leave a lasting impact.
Strong financial oversight, a stellar charity rating, and a unique funding model mean that we make the very most of your contribution. Give and become a part of Rotary’s life-changing work!
The collective leadership and expertise of our 1.2 million members helps us tackle some of the world’s biggest challenges, locally and globally. We are united by common values and vision for the future as we sharpen our focus with targeted specific causes that will reach communities most in need.
The LAUNCH program at Elmbrook schools is still in need of mentors with business experience to assist students with their LAUNCH projects! Over 400 students and only 35 mentors to this point. LAUNCH is hoping to reach 70 mentors.
Please consider spending one hour, or one hour a week, for as many weeks as you feel comfortable with, helping the Students at LAUNCH as they develop their LAUNCH projects.
On Friday morning, October 11, Elmbrook Rotary conducted an off-site meeting in the Simulation Center at Froedtert & The Medical Center of Wisconsin. Dr. Jon Gould, Chief, Division of General Surgery, and other staff members provided an overview and tour of the two-year-old Simulation Center.
Please join the Elmbrook Rotary Club in celebrating our esteemed member Birthdays and Anniversaries in October.
“October is the fallen leaf, but it is also a wider horizon more clearly seen. It is the distant hills once more in sight, and the enduring constellations above them once again.” — Hal Borland
World Polio Day is celebrated on October 24. World Polio Day was established by Rotary International to commemorate the birth of Jonas Salk, who led the first team to develop a vaccine against poliomyelitis. Use of this inactivated poliovirus vaccine and subsequent widespread use of the oral poliovirus vaccine, developed by Albert Sabin, led to the establishment of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative.
Mark your calendar to tune in for Rotary International’s World Polio Day Online Global Update on Thursday, October 24, streamed on Facebook in multiple time zones and languages around the world. This year’s program will highlight the heroes of polio eradication, with stories from polio-endemic and recently impacted areas. Tune in at: https://endpol.io/wpdev
Mark and Evonne Zalewski, together with Larry Winkelhake and his wife Jean Guzetta, will represent Elmbrook Rotary Club in Antigua, Guatemala, at the high school graduation of their sponsored students (Monica Rivera & Carlos de Leon, respectively). They will also visit our own club student (Sergio Cuc), who is finishing 11th grade.
Representatives from Kathy’s House visited the Elmbrook Rotary Club on Friday, September 13.
Staff volunteer rep Mona Theobald explained how Kathy’s House provides a true “home away from home” for patients and/or their caregivers. It is a caring place where guests can eat, sleep, and be with others when they want – or be alone when they need time, introspection, and quiet healing. The house provides a place where mutual support thrives, which is one of the great strengths of Kathy’s House.
Cindy Warner (Professional Executive Coaching, LLC) visited the Elmbrook Rotary Club on Friday, September 6, to discuss logic, emotion, and "horse sense." The full title of her presentation was "Emotional Intelligence and Character: Lessons in Leadership."
A Rotarian from Fond du Lac, she explained that our hearts create an emotional field that is 50x larger than our heads. She also shared that a horse's heart is 12x larger than a human heart; therefore, our equine friends understand emotional connections much quicker and better than we humans do. In fact, her own horse Echo often imitates her very movements and can sense her emotions. Applied to human relationships, this means that understanding and responding to emotions is just as important as is the intellect (mind).
And, visit Elmbrook Rotary any Friday morning at 7:00 a.m. (Western Racket Club in Elm Grove, WI) to hear more interesting presentations and learn more about Rotary.
It is now possible for members of Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) to make online payments and donations both to ERC and to the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation (ERF).
Two separate commercial merchant accounts have been activated which intend to keep transactions separated between ERC and ERF.
To make payments to ERC, simply follow the link provided in one's individual club account (and quarterly statements). A surcharge of 5% is billed to one's club account when utilizing a credit card or debit card.
To make donations or payments to ERF, simply click the "Donate" or "Donate Now" button that can be found on multiple pages on the ERC web site. Or, one can click the URL link that will be provided in ERF invoices to club members. Please ensure that donations or payments intended for the ERF account are not made to the ERC account. The opposite is also true. And, please remember that not all payments to the Foundation [a 501(c)(3) entity] are tax-deductible. IRS rules and policies must be followed.
Finally, one can always use the old-fashioned (and least expensive) way of payment/donation with an individual check or bank check via "Bill Pay" at one's bank.
Ciara McHugh continues her Ph.D. program in research at the Senator George J Mitchell Institute for Global Peace, Security, and Justice at The Queen's University of Belfast, Northern Ireland. This is the second year for this Global Grant Scholar, for whom Elmbrook Rotary Club has served as local liaison in RI District 6270.
Through the support of LINCS (Leverhulme Interdisciplinary Network for Cyber Security) and The Rotary Foundation's Global Grant Scholarship, Ciara is exploring how police and communities interact around the world. She is especially interested in looking at tensions between minority groups and police forces, and how we might rethink relationships between the two. When not researching, she is out hiking in the Mournes, sailing in Belfast Harbour, playing her ukelele at the Sunflower, and trying new vegan recipes.
The Queen's University of Belfast recently awarded her with a scholarship that will enable her to do some of her research in North America. This means that we'll see Ciara from time to time during the coming year. In the meantime, do enjoy her blog (https://ciarajmchugh.weebly.com), which details her adventures and progress in her studies.
Basic education and literacy is one of The Rotary Foundation’s six areas of focus. We know that basic education and literacy are essential for reducing poverty, improving health, encouraging community and economic development, and promoting peace. The month of September annually emphasizes this focus.
Susie Coakley, student at Pilgrim Park Middle School, visited Elmbrook Rotary on August 30 to thank the club for its support of the Magnum Bonum ("A Great Good") team of Destination Imagination.
The team was financially supported this past year by the ERC Foundation. The students were able to participate in the Global Finals of Destination Imagination and also accomplished several service projects.
See the embedded JPEG for a summary of their activities.
On Friday, August 30, Dr. Robert Hall provided an overview of the LAUNCH program in the Elmbrook School District. He is the Executive Director of this program opportunity that began in September 2017 for Elmbrook junior and senior high school students. The Wauwatosa School District high schools will also join the program in the current academic year. LAUNCH seeks to connect rigorous learning with real-world, hands-on projects provided by area business and industry. LAUNCH is built on the principles of profession-based learning, professional skills development, self-discovery and exploration, entrepreneurial mindsets, and responsiveness to the needs of students and businesses. The program now includes 400+ students and multiple strands. LAUNCH needs assistance from the business community for: (1) sharing professional stories & experience; (2) providing project feedback for 75+ projects; and (3) offering mentorship to students. An appeal to ERC members will be forthcoming.
On Friday evening, August 23, Elmbrook Rotary welcomed its newest Rotary Youth Exchange student, Fuka Sunagawa, from Japan. Five ERC members, together with their families, welcomed Fuka as she arrived at Billy Michtell IAP.
The Jeffrey Griffin family is serving once again as host family for the first months of Fuka's junior year at Elmbrook Central H.S. In addition to father Jeff, the Griffin family includes spouse Sherrie and their adult children, Mackenzie and Patrick. This is the third Rotary Youth Exchange student whom they have hosted.
Fuka was immediately immersed in ERC activities when she and the Griffin family visited the Brookfield Farmers' Market the very next day and got to meet Packers legend Bob Long at the ERC tent. Fuka will be seen frequently at ERC breakfast meetings, beginning on Friday, August 30.
Year 3 of Elmbrook Rotary Club's "Business Person of the Year" award was launched on August 5 with press releases to a number of local print and digital media as well as an "e-blast" to hundreds of Brookfield and Elm Grove businesses.
This award is a way for ERC to recognize individuals in our community who are service-minded and doing outstanding work. Additionally, this award is a means of making the public aware of ERC and its contributions to the local, regional, national, and international communities.
Elmbrook Rotary Club is a group of professionals and community leaders (movers & shakers) who are in an ideal position to sponsor/lead this event. ERC members are not eligible for this award; however, anyone is encouraged to nominate a candidate who you personally know would be "worthy" of this award. Last year's winner, Mark Mirsberger, CEO of Dana Investment Advisors, was nominated by Noaman Sharief.
The deadline for receipt of nominations is October 5, and the winner will be honored at the ERC meeting on Friday, October 25. For more program information and details on making a nomination, please visit:
Dates are June 6-10, 2020. It is NOT too early to register! In fact, Rotary International advises registering as soon as possible to ensure a place. They anticipate having to close registration prior to the December 15th deadline for early registration. Register at riconvention.org.
Sarah Perkins and two other reps from the Wisconsin Leadership Seminars (WILS) visited Elmbrook Rotary on Friday, August 2, and provided an update on their organization. For many years Elmbrook Rotary has provided the registration fee for three students from Elmbrook Central H.S. and Elmbrook East H.S. to participate in the WILS program. Click here to see the recipients of the $68,415 charitable amounts provided by ERC during the 2018-2019 Rotary Year.
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).
Looking for a chance to WIN tickets to a Green Bay home game during the 2019 season - and help needy organizations and causes at the same time? Club President Mike Schmeling is urging everyone to do their part in buying and selling Packer raffle tickets during our 5th Annual Green Bay Packer Raffle Ticket Fundraiser from now through August 30! Donations will go to the programs and organizations we support in Brookfield, Elm Grove, and around the world!
At the ERC breakfast meeting on July 26, Dr. Mora Anderson provided an update on the Capitol West Academy (CWA).
Dr. Anderson is the Executive Director of CWA and possesses a Ph.D. in Curriculum & Instruction from UW-Milwaukee. The Elmbrook Rotary Club has been involved in the tutoring of students at CWA for many years. Capitol West Academy, a tuition-free public school, provides a safe, nurturing, educational environment where children, with the support of their families and community, learn and grow to be successful lifelong learners and productive citizens. Join ERC any Friday for a delicious breakfast and to hear about CWA and other community service projects in which ERC is involved.
It has been announced that the new Assistant Governor (AG) for Area E of RI District 6270 during 2019-2022 is Elmbrook's own Larry Myers. A relatively new member of Elmbrook Rotary, Myers has 21 years of perfect attendance at Whitnall Park Rotary and Elmbrook Rotary. He twice served as President of Whitnall Park Rotary and has been a member of District 6270's Scholarships Committee for four years.
Area E of District 6270 comprises three local clubs: Elmbrook, Mukwonago, & Oconomowoc. There are currently 53 local clubs in District 6270. The previous Assistant Governor for Area E was also another Elmbrook Rotarian, Wally Smanski.
After a break of two weeks, Elmbrook Rotary resumed its Friday morning breakfast schedule on Friday, July 12.
Guest speaker was Thomas Fehring. An engineer by trade, Mr. Fehring has penned a number of books, including "The Magnificent Machines of Milwaukee and the Engineers Who Created Them." A 2017 JSOnline article describes his passion: "Ferhing wants to preserve Milwaukee's history and to tell others about the significant engineering accomplishments. He established some sites as engineering landmarks in the city. Most recently, a landmark was devoted to the Sholes & Glidden typewriter, the first commercially successful machine sold to the public." (https://www.jsonline.com/story/entertainment/books/2017/07/14/magnificent-machines-milwaukee-recalls-inventions-engineering-innovations/453491001). Fehring shared the insights about Milwaukee's machine innovations which he gleaned in writing this monograph. His books are available for sale online at www.amazon.com. Profits from "The Magnificent Machines of Milwaukee" go to the Milwaukee County Historical Society, whose Board of Directors includes two ERC Rotarians, Fred Gettelman and Mark Zalewski.
Join ERC any Friday, 7:00 a.m., at the Western Racket Club in Elm Grove for breakfast, a most interesting presentation, and the opportunity to meet community Rotarians.
Elmbrook Rotary Club once again this year sponsored a unit in the Brookfield 4th of July Parade.
The unit featured 2019-2020 ERC President Michael Schmeling. The convertible was driven by 2018-2019 President Kevin Roche. Other ERC Rotarians and family members also participated and distributed approximately 90 lbs of candy along the parade route. Weather was perfect; patriotism was abundant. Thanks to all!
A new Rotary year began on July 1. The Rotary International Presidential Theme for 2019-2020 is "Rotary Connects the World."
Mark Daniel Maloney (Rotary Club of Decatur, Alabama, USA) is RI President for 2019-2020 and believes that connection is at the heart of the Rotary experience. “(Rotary) allows us to connect with each other, in deep and meaningful ways, across our differences,” Maloney says. “It connects us to people we would never otherwise have met, who are more like us than we ever could have known. It connects us to our communities, to professional opportunities, and to the people who need our help.”
Rotarians in RI District 3350 (Thailand) have produced an interesting song & video that connects the 2019-2020 Presidential Theme with the work and impact of Rotary worldwide. Click here or on the image below to view and hear the production. It is only 3 min. 29 sec. in length.
Concurrent with the 2019 "Changing of the Guard" event on June 26, there occurred additional fundraising opportunities for the 123 members and guests (a record #!) in attendance. Three opportunities presented themselves: Silent Auction, 50/50 Raffle, & a Cork Pull.
The Silent Auction netted a total of $10,288. The 50/50 Raffle brought in an additional $1,000, and the Cork Pull netted $500. [The recipient of the 50/50 Raffle donated the $500 winnings back to the overall effort.] The grand total, to be added to the "Spikes for Types" proceeds, is therefore $11,788. The Elmbrook Rotary Foundation's Board of Directors is responsible for distribution of these monies via grant requests and other community charity involvement.
Sincere thanks to all ERC members (especially committee members) and guests for a wonderful gala evening and successful fundraising efforts!
The June 26th "Changing of the Guard" event included installation of the 2019-2020 Officers of Elmbrook Rotary Club.
The 2019-2020 Officers are:
President, Mike Schmeling
President-Elect, Tom Hochuli
Secretary, Thom Arndt
Sergeant-at-Arms, Harry Farchmin
Treasurer, Mark Zalewski
Immediate Past President, Kevin Roche
2018-2019 ERC President Kevin Roche and his team were given well-deserved gratitude for their leadership during the past year. It was also announced that the Elmbrook Rotary Club will receive a Rotary Citation with Gold Presidential Distinction for the club's successes during 2018-2019. Well done!
In his acceptance speech, 2019-2020 President Mike Schmeling lauded the past successes of Elmbrook Rotary and appealed for continued support throughout the next Rotary year. The Rotary International Presidential Theme for 2019-2020 is "Rotary Connects the World." Mark Daniel Maloney (Rotary Club of Decatur, Alabama, USA) is RI President for 2019-2020 and believes that connection is at the heart of the Rotary experience. “(Rotary) allows us to connect with each other, in deep and meaningful ways, across our differences,” Maloney says. “It connects us to people we would never otherwise have met, who are more like us than we ever could have known. It connects us to our communities, to professional opportunities, and to the people who need our help.”
After a rather long hiatus, the Fireside Chat has resumed at Elmbrook Rotary. The fireside chat is a tradition that has endured as a fun, welcoming social activity that provides new members with a history of Rotary and an explanation of the various opportunities for involvement. This is an informal way to learn about community and international projects and find common interests.
The first renewed Fireside Chat occurred in the home of Mark Thurner on Wednesday evening, June 19. Several more have occurred since that date. Participants learn much about the programs and activities of Elmbrook Rotary Club in addition to those of District 6270, Rotary International, and The Rotary Foundation.
Fireside Chats are scheduled periodically. If you have never attended a Fireside Chat, please contact ERC member John Allen to add your name to the guest list. You won't regret it.
Elmbrook Rotary Club participated in supporting the Elm Grove Family Fun Fest (which included the Fun Run) on July 4. All activities occurred at Elm Grove Village Park.
ERC volunteers assisted with the annual Fun Run. They also sold Sprecher products (provided by Sprecher), sodas & water (provided by Sendik's), and glo sticks at the Family Fun Fest.
Thanks to all who assisted in another successful event that impacted the community!
June happens to be "Rotary Fellowships Month." Rotary Fellowships are international groups that share a common passion. Being part of a fellowship is a fun way to make friends around the world, explore a hobby or profession, and enhance your Rotary experience.
Locally, a number of Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) members belong to a Rotary Fellowship called "Shooting Sport." The International Fellowship of Shooting Sport Rotarians was established in November of 2005. Since then a Spring Clays Shoot has taken place annually in NE Florida in various locations over the years.
ERC members of this fellowship call themselves the "Elmbrook Straight Shooters" and engage in several shooting events throughout the year. Both handgun and long gun events are held. All ERC members and guests are welcome to participate. Contact Harry Farchmin or Gary Gilmore for more information.
Jae-Kyu Lee, founder of J.K. Lee Blackbelt Academy, and son Chan Lee provided the program at Elmbrook Rotary on Friday, June 7. Please see the entire story by clicking "Read more ..." so that you don't miss the video clips.
Recipients of the 2019 ERC AVID Scholarships have been announced. There are two four-year awards and one two-year award. To be eligible, students have to be actively involved in the AVID program at Brookfield Central H.S. or Brookfield East H.S.
Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is a school-wide approach to curriculum and rigor adopted by more than 4,000 schools in 45 states and 15 countries over 28 years. It is a research-based program that equips students to meet the challenges of rigorous coursework in high school and college.
The recipients at Brookfield Central are Anita Ayala (four-year winner), who intends to major in Criminal Justice at UWM, and Emily Metzinger (two-year winner), who will pursue a Business associate degree at WCTC. The Brookfield East recipient is Mariana Brown (four-year winner), who intends to study Business at Arizona State University.
ERC President Kevin Roche with Mariana Brown
2019 AVID Scholarship Winner at Brookfield East H.S.
Elmbrook Rotary extends hearty congratulations to the scholarship recipients and wishes much success for them in their college endeavors!
On Friday, May 24, representatives of ERC's two Interact clubs visited Elmbrook Rotary and provided a briefing of their 2018-2019 activities.
Elmbrook Central H.S. Interact Club Representatives
During the past academic year, the Central H.S. Interact Club assisted with the German Holiday Fest, the Ekal Vidyalaya Milwaukee Fundraiser, Hope Center Clothing Sorting, and tutoring. They are currently helping to locate a host family for a 2019-2010 Rotary exchange student coming from Japan.
Elmbrook East H.S. Interact Club Representatives
The East H.S. Interact Club set a new record this year with 86 members. With such a large membership, they excelled in the number and quality of service projects. Their support included the following projects and organizations: Turkey Trot, Fight for Air, Santa Hustle, German Holiday Market, the MYSO, Sunset Playhouse, Open Door, House of Peace, CareAge, Raising Readers, tree and brush clearing at the Brookfield East Nature Center, river bank clean-up at Underwood Park, fund raising for the Humane Society, and an end-of-the-year locker clean out to gather school supplies to donate to the Capitol West Academy.
Congratulations and thanks to both Interact clubs in demonstrating Rotary's emphasis on "Service Above Self"!
On May 27, 2019, Elmbrook Rotary Club participated in the 72nd annual Elm Grove Memorial Day Parade. ERC President Kevin Roche led the parade unit, which included Tom Hochuli, Larry Myers, Chris & Carina Salani, Matt Smanski, & Mark Thurner. In addition to receiving good exercise by walking the parade route, they distributed 75 lbs of candy to children (and children-at-heart) who observed this annual tradition alongside the streets. Thanks to all who assisted! Special thanks go to Jeanne & John Allen, who offered their yard and home before, during, and after the parade for before-parade treats, a great view of the parade itself, and an after-parade cookout. Approximately 40 ERC Rotarians, including family members and guests, enjoyed the hospitality of the Allen's.
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.
Classification talks are a chance to know the people you meet with on Friday mornings, and serve with throughout the year, a little better. Several meetings a year, we take time to learn more about members, their life stories and ambitions, and what brings us all together via Rotary.
In the past several months six ERC members provided classification talks. Click on "Read more..." to learn more about them.
Remember to join ERC each Friday morning at the Western Racquet Club if you're looking for a powerful group of people with whom to network.
On Saturday, June 1, Elmbrook Rotary Club sponsors the 32nd annual “Spikes For Tykes Volleyball Spiketacular” at Mitchell Park in Brookfield. The day is sure to be filled with a whole lot of fun, with lots of food and drink and Rotary fellowship!
Spikes has been a big success for over 31 years because of the generosity and involvement of businesses, individuals, students, and Rotarians that have helped raise over $750,000 since it began. Last year, we had over 40 playing teams and over 100 sponsors who donated their time, talents, and athleticism.
If you intend to donate or take part in Spikes this year, please note that only a few days remain for you to help this one-day event make an impact for a lifetime.
Ciara McHugh, the 2018-2019 Global Grant Scholar from RI District 6270, began her PhD. program at Queens University in Belfast, Northern Ireland, in September 2018. She describes her program with these words: "Over the next few years, through the support of LINCS (Leverhulme Interdisiplinary Network for Cyber Security) and The Rotary Foundation's Global Grant Scholarship, I'll be exploring how police and communities interact around the world. I'm interested in looking at tensions between minority groups and police forces, and how we might rethink relationships between the two." ERC is the local Rotary liaison for Ciara during her Global Grant Scholarship, and ERC member Marie Owens is her contact. In addition, ERC member Larry Myers is on the RI District 6270 Scholarships Committee and guided Ciara through the TRF application process. She maintains a most interesting blog. Follow Ciara's progress and adventures via her blog: https://ciarajmchugh.weebly.com
The annual ERC Changing of the Guard Dinner & Silent Auction is scheduled for June 26 at the Western Racquet Club in Elm Grove. Deadline to register was Wednesday, June 19, 12:00 p.m. If you missed the deadline, contact Linda Edelstein immediately to see if you can be added to the 124 persons already registered for this gala event. This Friday, June 21, is the deadline for submitting donations for the Silent Auction.
The Elmbrook Rotary Club Vision Team for 2019 returned from Antigua, Guatemala a few weeks ago after a week of service with Common Hope, Inc., a St. Paul, MN based Non-Profit organization which has spent the last 30 years improving lives with education, healthcare, housing, and social services.
The Western Racquet Club has recently increased the breakfast fee to $16 USD per person, up from $15 USD. This is due to increase costs associated with the food and the preparation of it.
As such, the Rotary Club of Elmbrook will increase the cost of breakfast to $16 USD per person. This new cost will be implemented on the 1st of April, 2019.
Kevin Roche, Kate Bloomberg, Tom Hochuli, Dan Roads, Wally Smanksi and Mark Thurner met RI President Barry Rassin at Milwaukee Downtown Rotary Club as he spoke about the impact Rotarians service is having around the world.
Join Brookfield area residents and Elmbrook Rotarians this Saturday as we support this year's German Holiday Market at Brookfield Civic Plaza on December 1st. Take the family on a hayride, enjoy authentic German food and music, beverages from the Schwabenhoff, plus visit a number of vendors selling holiday gifts!
At our meeting last week, we announced that Mark Mirsberger, CEO of Dana Investment Advisors is the recipient of our Business Person of the Year Award. The program recognizes the leadership and accomplishments of a successful Brookfield or Elm Grove individual.
2019 GO FOR THE GREEN & GOLD: The Green Bay Packer Ticket Raffle fundraiser ended on Friday, August 30, and the winners were selected at our morning meeting. Club President Michael Schmeling drew the winners. Click "More" to see the list of winners.
The Elmbrook Rotary Club recently announced its 2nd Business Person of the Year Award that will recognize the accomplishments of a successful Brookfield or Elm Grove individual. The program kicked off this month with nominations being requested online and will run through October 6th.
Looking for a chance to WIN tickets to a Green Bay home game during the 2018 season - and help needy organizations and causes at the same time? Club President Kevin Roche is urging everyone to do their part in buying and selling Packer raffle tickets during our 4th Annual Green Bay Packer Raffle Ticket Fundraiser from now through August 31st. Donations will go to the programs and organizations we support in Brookfield, Elm Grove, and around the world!
We held our annual Changing of the Guard on June 20, at Western Racquet Club and swore in our newest Officers for the 2018-2019 Rotary year. Last years President, Linda Edelstein gave her final remarks as she welcomed in Elmbrook Rotary's new President Kevin Roche.
Congratulations to all Elmbrook Rotarians on another Great Spikes Extravaganza! The weatherman co-operated and over 40 Teams had a great time playing Volleyball highlighted by the first ever Brookfield Central vs Brookfield East All Star Game which was won by East 25-18.
Club member Gary Zwirlein recently announced that as part of RI President Ian Riseley’s challenge to plant a tree for every Rotarian during this 2017-2018 year the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation made a $1,200 donation to Simple Hope for 60 trees.
For the past 3 weeks, we had our Annual Spring food drive to benefit the Waukesha Food Pantry which was lead by club members Gary Zwirlein and Greg Bonk. The club collected a total of 99 items weighing 130 pounds. In addition, the club contributed $1,449 in total cash donations which included a $500 match from the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation. Thanks to everyone for helping those in need!
Now in it's eight year, the Guatemala Vision Team is finding time to enjoy the beautiful Guatemalan countryside while working on various projects. This years teams consists of eight Elmbrook Rotarians including John and Jeanne Allen, Pati Allen Brickman, Doug Jacobson, Erik Moeser, Wally Smanski, Kathy Becker, and Jim Finn.
Join Brookfield area residents and Elmbrook Rotarians this Saturday as we support this year's German Holiday Market at Brookfield Civic Plaza on December 2nd from 1 pm to 7 pm. Take the family on a hayride, enjoy authentic German food and music, plus visit a number of vendors selling holiday gifts!
Several months ago, honorary Elmbrook Rotary member Jane Koons visited our Club and gave updates on the success of the E-Learning program in India. The following is a report from Jane about the growing interest and the positive impact that the E-Learning program we helped initiate is having on the students in India.
Last month, many of you contributed to the Capitol West Academy School Supplies Drive initiated by Jan Constable and the Community Service Committee. This used to be a once a year event but with the increased demand, our club rose to the occasion and donated the following supplies.
Our 2017 GO FOR THE GREEN & GOLD - Green Bay Packer Ticket Raffle fundraiser ended on Friday, September 1 and the winners were selected at our morning meeting. Steve Stocker helped draw the winners and Gary Zwirlein reported that we met our goal of $5,000 raised after expenses!
Our 3rd Annual Green Bay Packer Ticket Raffle Fundraiser will come to an end tomorrow when we draw winning pairs of tickets to each of the 8 Green Bay home games during the 2017 season! We are close to reaching our goal of $5,000 and looking for one final push before tomorrow's drawing. So, if you haven't already sold or purchased raffle tickets, you have one last chance today and early tomorrow to GO FOR THE GREEN & GOLD!
The Elmbrook Rotary Club announced this week the creation of a Business Person of the Year Award that will recognize the accomplishments of a successful Brookfield or Elm Grove individual. The program kicks off this month with nominations being requested online and will run through September 22nd.
On Saturday June 3rd, we held our 30th Annual “Spikes for Tykes” Volleyball Fundraiser at Mitchell Park in Brookfield on a day that was suited more for ducks, with rain throughout the morning. Despite the foul weather, the event was a huge success with over 50 teams showing up to play. Combined with with over 50 Elmbrook Rotarians, their spouses, friends and guests, everyone pitched in and made it a fun event.
It's less than one week until our 30th Annual Spikes for Tykes Volleyball Spectacular - our biggest fundraiser of the year that will be held this coming Saturdaym June 3 at Mitchell Park in Brookfield. Are all your teams registered and sponsors signed-up?! Find out more about Spikes here!
It's Almost Here - Spikes for Tykes This Saturday!
Thanks to all Rotarians who contributed $825.00 to the Boston Store Community Day coupon book fundraiser. $740.00 will go to the Veteran's start-up photography class, enabling the Recreation Therapist to purchase 5 digital cameras and framing supplies.
The balance of $85.00 plus a $165.00 allocation from our SaintA Christmas party budget will enable ERC to make a $250.00 gift to SaintA residence/school, from their Wish List, in addition to the pizza and magician entertainment for the resident boy's Christmas party on 12/8. Thank you for your support and generosity!
Thanks for Donating! - Community Days Fundraiser Results
Elmbrook Rotarians came out on a chilly Wednesday night in October to enjoy the China Lights Exhibit at the Whitnall Park Boerner Botanical Gardens. Over a dozen Rotarians and friends enjoyed the numerous lighted sculptures, whimsical animals, Chinese jugglers and acrobats.
Over the past several weeks, President Mike Hogan has inducted two new members to the club. They include Daniel Zomchek, who was sponsored by John Allen and
Our speaker last Friday was Mame McCully, Executive Director of the Milwaukee County Historical Society – and also coincidentally is the wife of Elmbrook Rotary member Andy McCully. Two club members, Fred Gettelman and Mark Zalewski also serve as Directors of the Society.
Several weeks ago, we had four talented and smart young women attend our club meeting who we have sponsored with scholarships and at recent youth seminars throughout the state. Their talks were inspiring and each of them exemplifies the spirit of Rotary.
Our 2016 GO FOR THE GREEN & GOLD - Green Bay Packer Ticket Raffle fundraiser ended on Friday, August 5 and the winners were selected at our morning meeting. Club President Mike Hogan pulled each ticket out of the raffle drum and Chairperson Gary Zwirlein reported that we exceeded our goal of $5,000 and raised $5,720 after expenses that will go towards the programs and organizations we support in the coming year!
The last several weeks has seen a flurry of activity for Elmbrook Rotary as we ended one Rotary year and began another along with celebrating activities on July 4th. Last week, on June 29th we had our annual Changing of the Guard where we celebrated our achievements from the past year and swore in of our new Officers and Directors. We also thanked outgoing Club President Mark Zalewski for his dedicated year of service.
Our 29th Annual Spikes for Tykes Volleyball Spectacular on Saturday, June 4th is in the books and the day couldn't have turned out better! We had over 52 teams playing and almost 100 sponsors that raised funds to support our programs that help individuals and organizations in our community and throughout the world. Still need to find out about Spikes?! Go here to learn more - What is Spikes for Tykes?
A lively crowd was on hand last week to get us going on this Arbor Day – a day to celebrate everything green. Also lighting up the room was our Club’s Marathon Man – Chris Salani who just back from a week in Scottsdale and sporting a snappy pair of Ferrari logo blue running shoes. They looked fast even sitting still!
On Friday April 1st and Friday April 8th, Elmbrook Rotary held our Annual Spring food drive to benefit the Waukesha Food Pantry which was lead by club member Arne Landsverk. The club collected 42 items weighing 46lbs and $736. In addition, the club contributed $1000 bringing the total cash donations to $1,736. Thanks to everyone for helping those in need!
At a recent club meeting, new member Karl Schultz gave his Classification Talk and the following provides an overview on his background. Like many Rotarians, Karl has no shortage of interests and achievements between multiple patents as an engineer, membership in the the Porsche Club of America, and former Alderman in Brookfield - list goes on...
That is correct, plural, as this year for the first time we fielded two Vision Teams to Guatemala! The first one, under the leadership of John Allen, was from February 7 to 14, and the second, under Christine Spresser was from February 21 to 28.
Club member Barry James recently announced that this year’s presentation of “Diane’s Dictionaries” took place at Capitol West Academy, St. Martini School, and Trowbridge Street School. Now in the seventh year of the program, it has provided 1,439 dictionaries to young people.
At a recent club meeting, we were fortunate to have not only one, but three classification talks from new members! Franklin Onwubuariri, Andrew McCully, and Pete Moegenburg shared their backgrounds on career, family and why they decided to join Rotary. And just last week, our newest member - Spencer Taintor, who serves as the Head of School at Brookfield Academy, gave his classification talk. Read on to learn more about Pete's talk and watch for more write-ups from newer members in the weeks ahead.
Last month, many of you contributed to the Capitol West Academy School Supplies Drive initiated by Jan Constable and the Community Service Committee. This used to be a once a year event but with the increased demand, our club rose to the occasion and donated the following supplies.
As plans are being finalized for our trip to Guatemala next month, we are very excited to announce that there will be not just one Vision Team, but two! The first one, led by John "Julio" Allen (and no doubt ably assisted by Jeannie) will be leaving on February 7th and will include 7 veterans of previous trips and 5 "newbies". The second team will follow on February 21st, led by Christine Spresser, "with a little help from her friends", and will be made up of 4 veterans and 7 new to the experience. ERC members that are involved for the first time are Jim Finn and Marc DeVries, who will travel with Christine.
Since 2009, Elmbrook Rotary has sponsored Capitol West Academy's (CWA) Annual Spelling Bee. This year, almost 200 students participated in the event! Each year we’ve provided the first and second place winners at each grade level with prizes including gift cards from Barnes and Noble Book Store. In addition, Club members act as the pronouncers for the event. Each grade level held a preliminary spelling bee in their classrooms and the top three winners for each grade completed in the school spelling bee on January 14th.
Our Speaker at last Friday's meeting was Cathy Lin, who took us through 5000 years of Chinese cultural history in 20 minutes. Cathy is with the Chinese Cultural Center which is sponsoring the Shen Yun Performing Arts presentation next month in Milwaukee.
A crisp morning gave us a hint of Winter, but it didn’t chill the warm fellowship at the Elmbrook Rotary annual Christmas program. The room was bright with Christmas sweaters from festive to downright weird and members shared their favorite Christmas memories – with stories ranging from family traditions and grandchildren, to a visit from a tipsy Santa Claus. To cap it all off, our own Elmbrook Troubadours - Jim Finn, Gary Gilmore, Kevin Roche, and Ned ”the Grinch” - took us through a range of Holiday favorites in a Christmas sing-along.
Members of the International Committee recently reported on the implementation of our Global Grant E-Learning project which began this past July with the purchase and installation of the equipment including computers, projectors, screens, software. For newer members who may not be aware, our club was asked in 2014 to consider being the Primary International Sponsor of a Global Grant application by a club in District-2980 Tamil Nadu State, India. The grant was to fund a proposed internet-based learning system for 60 schools across the state with District-2980 being the Primary Host Sponsor.
As this years Guatemala teams prepare for their trip in February, and we look back at the recent trip by Gwen Condon and her husband Ken, the program has made incredible strides. Read on to learn more about how our International Committee, along with Common Hope, has made this into a sustainable program that will benefit students, families and Rotarians for years to come.
Elmbrook Rotarians once again supported this year's German Holiday Market at Brookfield Civic Plaza on Saturday, December 5th and a host of happy hayriders took in the "balmy" conditions.
Last month, from November 5th to the 9th, club member Gwen Condon and her husband Ken, travelled to Guatemala, to the Common Hope facilities in Antigua, to represent our club at the high school graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2015.
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.
Our annual Christmas party, for the boys of SaintA Home the night before, had everyone in good spirits this morning. Magician Gil Girard dazzled the boys with his slight-of-hand – including lifting Barry James’ watch right off of his wrist. The Grinch showed up and tried to spoil the event but fortunately Santa arrived with gifts for everyone and a pile of new games for the school game room. Poor Kevin Roche missed seeing Santa again. Seems he leaves the room every year right before Old St. Nick gets there. Maybe next year Kevin….
Last month, longtime Rotarian and club member Ron Jones gave his classification talk at a Friday meeting and the following is his write-up. Ron's diverse career path and his dedication to volunteering are great examples of "Service Above Self."
A crisp morning with the promise of the season’s first snow for the weekend. Todays’ meeting highlighted the Rotary fight to eradicate Polio worldwide. Our World Polio Day activities raised over $1600 that will be matched 3:1 by the Gates Foundation. Joining us was Ronn Blaha the advisor to the Brookfield Central Key Club (yes, we can even get the Kiwanis to help fight Polio).The Key Club kids raised $500 selling End Polio Now Crocus pins. Thanks Kids!
Club member Tom Pyne recently connected with our former Rotary Exchange Student, Otto Mattila from Finland and here's what he's been up to since returning home!
One of the winners in our 2015 GREEN BAY PACKER TICKET RAFFLE, Greg Thomas and his wife attended the Packers vs. Saints game at Lambeau Field on August 29. Fundraiser Chairperson Gary Zwirlein, reported that we not only exceeded our goal of $8,000 but went beyond expectations and raised a total of $9,035. For more on the fundraiser and a complete list of WINNERS read-on.
Over the past several weeks, President Mark Zalewski has inducted two new members in Harry Farchmin, who was sponsored by Mayor Steve Ponto, and Ted Wentzel, who was sponsored by John Allen. Harry is a Civil Engineer and Ted is a Marketing with an IT company. Welcome to Elmbrook Rotary!
With less than a week to go until our Annual SPIKES FOR TYKES Volleyball Spectacular on May 30th, we’re over two-thirds of the way to reaching our goal of raising $50,000! If you haven’t been in contact with potential sponsors, sponsored a team for yourself, or got a team together to play, now is the time to make it happen!
On the Friday before Memorial Day, our morning speaker featured Dr. Timothy McMahon who is a Professor of History at Marquette University. Tim shared his vast knowledge of WWI in a talk entitled, "Catastrophic Catalyst - The Seeds of WWI."
Ron Jones has been leading Elmbrook Rotary’s scholarship efforts for years and recently announced that the recipients of this year's awards have been named after a thorough process over the past few months.
Our Speaker this morning was Dr David Gaus who is Founder of the Andean Health and Development. He was joined by Laura Dries who is Executive Director. Working with the rural indigenous populations of Ecuador, Andean Health is one of the international outreach programs sponsored by Elmbrook Rotary.
At recent Friday meetings, two newer Club Members, Kate Bloomberg and Tom Hochuli gave their Classification Talks. Both have a long history of public service with Kate being a former Mayor of Brookfield and Tom being a board member of the Potawatomi Area Council Boy Scouts of America.
Elmbrook Rotarians – mark your calendars for our annual Changing of the Guard Dinner and Silent Auction on June 25th at Western Racquet Club. Join in celebrating our successes from the past year and giving a rousing start to the new Rotary Year!
A group of a thirteen Elmbrook Rotarians and their guests gathered on May 13 at Bullwinkles Sports Bar in Brookfield as part of the ongoing effort by Chris Spresser and the Club Service Committee to have more social gatherings. Even the Prez and incoming Prez took part! Watch for upcoming details about the next event on June 11th at Nagawicka Lake.
Our Speaker this morning was Sportscaster, Lance Allen from TMJ TV4. He talked about his early days as a kid growing up in Rice Lake and how he was fortunate to be able to channel his love of sports into his dream career.
Thanks to everyone who took part in our Annual Book and Magazine Drive. Approximately 225 magazines went to the Brookfield Library. 164 soft covered appropriate books were delivered to the Waukesha County Jail. In addition, 389 books were dropped off at Literacy Services of Wisconsin and 94 children books went to Capital West Academy. Wisconsin.
The Brookfield East Interact Club recently took on a project to support and recognize Earth Day which was on April 22nd. The Interact Club talked with Club Supervisor and Vocational Committee Chair, Dan Roads about ideas for a project and they were aware of past Interact clean-up projects that Club Member Jack Nelson had coordinated.
If you haven't seen or heard the notices, our collection date for the ERC Annual Magazine and Book drive starts this coming Friday, May 8, 2015. Please talk to your coworkers, friends, and neighbors. We all have books and magazines that we have read sitting in our offices and homes. The nice thing about these donations is that it allows others to have the same enjoyment you had while reading them. The magazines will go to the Brookfield Library's magazine exchange rack. Children books will go to the Capitol West Academy, soft covered appropriate adult books to the Waukesha Jail, with the rest of the books going to Literacy Services of Wisconsin.
We had a full room this morning and a number of guests including Donna Weber and students from Capitol West Academy and Art Salani, President of Global Fastener and Supply were on hand in addition to Club Member Jack Melloh, who we wished a Happy Birthday. It was also was fitting that on Arbor Day 2015, we meet in Elm Grove which is know as the City of Trees!
Our speaker this morning was Tim Engel who is President of Better Earth Textile Recycling (BETR). A seasoned Marketing and Sales Executive, Tim is using his professional skills to address the challenge of keeping over 24 billion tons of discarded clothing and textiles out of our landfills each year.
A group of a dozen Elmbrook Rotarians and their guests gathered on April 15 at Camp Bar in Wauwatosa as part of the ongoing effort by Chris Spresser and the Club Service Committee to schedule more casual social outings. These are great opportunities to get to know each other a little better while checking out some of the local establishments. Camp Bar has a unique "up north" theme that would make you think you're in Eagle River, WI! Join in the fun next month as the event is scheduled to be at Bullwinkle's Sports Bar in Brookfield on May 13
Last month, two of our speakers were two of ERC’s more noted travelers in Alice Lambie and Dana Johnson. At our April 10 meeting, Dana shared her knowledge on travel safety with great reminders about how to stay safe when traveling abroad and then on April 17, Alice shared her adventures with the Polar Bears in Manitoba, Canada. Learn more about their presentations and watch a video from the National Habitat Adventures on Alice's Polar Bear trip!
As some of us celebrated Wisconsin’s win over North Carolina on Thursday in the Sweet 16, our Friday morning meeting featured a lot of red sweaters as the outside cold temps were in the 20’s and still well below normal. With all the talk of basketball and the NCAA Tournament, we were joined by representatives from the Milwaukee Bucks, Peter Feigin and Alex Lasry who were gave us updates on plans for the new arena and talked about the direction of the team.
Our Friday meeting last week was highlighted by several reports from two recent teams that visited Common Hope in Antigua, Guatemala for outreach efforts. (See the story below for details on the ERC trip). Our Elmbrook Rotary Club recently returned from their fourth trip to Guatemala and was instrumental in helping the Brookfield Congregational Church (BCC) send a team for the first time in late January 2015. Between the BCC and ERC, almost 50 people have experienced the work of Common Hope on the ground. The video clip above helps give an idea of the invaluable work they are doing. If you are interested in making the trip to Guatemala next year or having your organization field a team, please contact Club President Tom Curl.
As we looked forward to the warmest day of the year today – the snow is melting and Spring can’t be far behind. That prospect has Club Member, and resident lawn care expert, Mark Thurner rubbing his hands with delight at the prospect of numerous green and growing lawns.
Our speaker this morning was ERC Member and Brookfield Mayor, Steve Ponto. Steve gave us updates on a number of exciting projects under development along the Bluemound Road commercial corridor. He touched on plans for development of Brookfield Square, Plaza 173, in addition to the former WTMJ and Ruby Farms Property.
We held our semi-annual Food Drive over the past several weeks which was coordinated by Dr. Thom Arndt of the Community Service Committee. The event benefits the Waukesha Food Panty and is held in both March and during the summer in June and July. The drive this year was ran so that it would be completed to take advantage “Match Day” sponsored by The Greater Milwaukee Foundation.
On March 2, eleven Elmbrook Rotarian's and their spouses were part of over 30 participants who took part in Read Across America Day at the Capitol West Academy School on 88th Street in Milwaukee. The Read Across America Day event celebrates Dr. Seuss’ birthday and focuses on creating a love of learning. The message to kids is: reading is important, and fun!
The Elmbrook Rotary Club Vision Team for 2015 returned from Antigua, Guatemala on Sunday, March 1 after a week of service with Common Hope, Inc., a St. Paul, MN based Non-Profit organization which has spent the last 30 years improving lives with education, healthcare, housing, and social services.
Chris Spresser, Chairperson of the Club Service (Fun!) Committee, recently announced that they've added another social event to the Club calendar on March 14th — a Sunset Playhouse performance of "The Nerd"! This is a Mayfair Rotary Club fundraiser with the proceeds supporting the Mayfair Club's general scholarship fund and 20 other charitable efforts.
This years’ Elmbrook Rotary Progressive Dinner was held on February 13 and it was once again the social highlight of the year. 50 Club Members and their guests attended the homes of 6 different host families then headed over to Don and Kate Wilsons afterwards for their fabulous collection of desserts.
The following is a brief report by former Club Member, Larry D’Attilio with updates on the Vietnam Micro Finance Program he helped initiate with the International Services Committee almost 5 years ago. Larry and his wife Pam Foard, who was also a member of the club, have been welcomed guests to recent meetings in between their global travels.
Even though it was the coldest morning of the year, there was plenty of warm fellowship at Friday's breakfast meeting. Nevertheless, a few of the less hearty members are taking off for warmer territory over the next few weeks as they head for Florida, Mexico and Bora Bora – Can you take us along?!
And our own Vision Team, which includes President Tom and Lynda Curl, VP Mark and Evonne Zalewski, and Jan and Darcy Constable, will be leaving for Antigua, Guatemala. They will spend a week working with our partners at Common Hope on literacy projects and home construction. We wish them and everyone safe travels.
This years’ Elmbrook Rotary Progressive Dinner was held on February 13 and it was once again the social highlight of the year. 50 Club Members and their guests attended the homes of 6 different host families then headed over to Don and Kate Wilsons afterwards for their fabulous collection of desserts. A big thank you goes out to the Wilson’s for their generosity in opening their home once again as well as all the dinner hosts which included: Joe & Sharon Pottebaum, Don & Judy Down, Kate Bloomberg, Chris Spresser & Marty Manley, Steve & Mary Ponto, and Mark & JackieThurner. Thanks to Chris Spresser, Chairperson of the Club Service Committee, Marc DeVries and others on the committee for their efforts in planning and coordinating this year’s event.
Another Successful - and Fun - Progressive Dinner!
At recent Friday meetings, two new Club Members, Bill Severson and Chris Salani gave their Classification Talks. With Bill growing up in Wisconsin Rapids and Chris originally from Taipei, Taiwan, there backgrounds and ages say a lot about the diversity in our club. And while their experiences and interests are different, both of them have a passion for service. Here are overviews on their talks.
No triskaidekaphobia (fear of the number 13) at our meeting today as we had a packed venue with a number of guests. We especially welcomed Tiffany Bianco and Olivia Wallesar, and their parents. Tiffany and Olivia were among the award winners from Wisconsin Leaders of Tomorrow and represented the Milwaukee area at the National Leadership Conference in St Louis this past summer. Elmbrook Rotary has been supportive of this project for the past 13 years and a number of club members have served on the Board of Wisconsin Leaders of Tomorrow.
We welcomed back club members, Linda Wickstrom and Kate Bloomberg from their church sponsored Vision Team trip to Common Hope in Antigua, Guatemala. Both paid “Happy Fines” to describe the positive experiences of the trip. But Linda also came back with an unexpected “souvenir” – a cast on her broken ankle – injured as she hurried across a dark courtyard on her first day in Antigua. But thanks to a good local doctor, and $160 later, she was back in action even if she was moving just a bit slower.Our own ERC Vision Team will be leaving for Guatemala on February 21, and a presentation to the Club of both trips is scheduled for March 20th.
Some bleary eyes for many of the members this morning, who participated in last night’s Club Visioning Session. About 26 ERC members were joined by 6 District 6270 leaders to create the “Vision” of what the Elmbrook Rotary Club could be in 2019. Watch for more on this in the weeks ahead. This morning we also congratulated Club Member Jeanne Allen, as she celebrated the final day before retirement from her long banking career, in fitting fashion – with a full day of client appointments!
Now that most of us have moved through the 5 Stages of Grief after last Sundays Packer loss, we are ready to move on. Brewer Spring Training starts February 20th! This morning, we listened to one of our newer members, Gwen Condon as she presented her Classification Talk to the Club, (for more on Gwen, see the story below). Gwen transferred to ERC from the Lake Country Rotary and while she misses the friendships she had at Lake Country, she's glad to be part of a club with a high-level of community and international involvement.
The ERC Club Service Committee is starting 2015 where it left off last year, with a number of social activities for Elmbrook Rotarians to take part in. On January 22, 18 Rotarians and their guests visited World of Beer in Wauwatosa to sample some craft beers from, you guessed it— around the world! Next month on February 13, we have our social event of the year with the Progressive Dinner then in March 22, the Club will be having its first Bunco Game Event! For more information on any of these events, contact Club Service Chairperson, Chris Spresser at cspresser@yahoo.com.
One of our newer members, Gwen Condon, recently gave her Classification Talk at a Friday meeting. And while she’s new to Elmbrook Rotary, she’s been an active Rotarian for years with the Lake Country Rotary Club. Here’s a topline on her talk:
On March 2 from 9:15 to 10:30 a.m., join Elmbrook Rotarians along with other volunteers and community leaders, to take part in the annual Read Across America Day at Capitol West Academy (CWA) in Milwaukee. Volunteer one hour of your time to read to a group of children at CWA. Just bring your favorite Dr. Suess book or use of theirs. Contact Donna Weber of CWA at 414-465-1355 or dweber@cwaacademy.org for details. "You're never too old, too wacky, too wild, to pick up a book and read with a child."
Take part in Read Across America Day on March 2nd!
On January 13, 2015 the Elmbrook Rotary Club sponsored the 7th annual Capitol West Academy Spelling Bee Contest. Each year, our Club has provided Barnes and Noble gift cards to the 1st and 2nd place winners in each grade, in addition, we've helped out as being pronouncers during the contests. We're proud to support this event and continue our focus on literacy programs in the Milwaukee area.
There was plenty of hopefulness at our meeting this morning from 40 degree weather this weekend to a Packer win over Seattle on Sunday. A lot of Green and Gold was evident among the membership. We inducted another new member today, Ed Doolan who was sponsored by Club President Tom Curl. No sooner has he joined the Club, that he and his wife Marsha will be fleeing to Florida for 6 weeks!
Last Friday was our first meeting of 2015 after being away for two weeks of Holiday cheer. As the temperature was cold and in the single digits, we’re starting to see some brightness on the eastern sky – a sign of longer days and warmer times to come. The layoff also saw plenty of pent-up ‘Happy Fines,” two new member inductions plus a number of guests including former members, Larry D’Attilio and Pam Foard who were back from 3 months in Vietnam working with on the Women’s Micro-Lending Project. The program, which is one of ERC’s international projects, boasts a 100% repayment record which is the best of any similar project worldwide.
Even the arrival of Mr. Grinch couldn’t dampen the Holiday spirit that filled the room at our meeting this past Friday. We were treated to another outstanding production from our resident musical troupe consisting of Ned Consigny, Gary Gilmore and Jim Finn, otherwise known as a ConGilFin Production. They were ably assisted by the booming baritone of Joe Pottebaum as he led the Club through some spirited renditions of holiday classics. And, you know ? – we sounded pretty good!
The ERC Club Service Committee has had a busy month starting with the Packer Party on November 23 to watch the game against the Minnesota Vikings at Mo's Irish Pub in Wauwatosa. A total of 20 people showed up and while the majority of people were Packer fans, 2 were Patriots fans, and there were single fans of the Detroit Lions, Chicago Bears, and Denver Broncos. Everyone enjoyed getting together and watching the game despite how close the final score was!
Elmbrook Rotary Youth Protection Committee Chairperson John Schesta recently talked at a Friday morning meeting to let members know that every year Rotary International asks clubs to renew and maintain their commitment to youth protection. This commitment grew out of the various sex abuse scandals that have occurred in recent years with other organizations and is similar to commitments that other youth-oriented groups have implemented.
Mike Schmeling, who is the current Chairperson of the Community Services Committee, recently announced the following recipients of Mini Grants after a thorough review by committee members and approval of the ERC Foundation Board. The Committee has awarded a total of $24,000 in various amounts to the following organizations:
At a recent Club Meeting, former Club President Mark Thurner announced that The Wisconsin Leaders of Tomorrow (WLT) – Elmbrook Chapter is seeking nominations for student leaders for the 2014-2015 competition. As many of you know, Mark along with other Elmbrook Rotarians currently serve on the WLT Board and many Club Members have taken part in this process over the years. The deadline for nominations that need to be turned into school representatives is Friday, January 9, 2015.
There were a lot of good feelings this morning, and some bleary eyes, following last night’s Christmas party for the boys at SaintA's. There were also plenty of Happy Fines congratulating the fine job of organization by Bonnie Bertram, Jan and Darcy Constable, Kevin Roche, Wally Smanski, Jeanne Allen, Kathy Becker, Greg Bonk, Dan Roads, Thom Arndt, and everyone else who helped out. Special thanks to Lind Edelstein for bringing the MYSO Steel Band to give our party a tropical Caribbean flair. Christmas is about sharing and it’s especially important to the young men at SaintA's who are going through some tough times too early in life. This is truly the Spirit of Rotary Present and is a rewarding experience for all who participate.
We held our Annual Club Meeting on December 5, 2015 and elected our newest Officers and Board members beginning with the 2015-2016 Rotary year. In his last official duty as Past President, Gary Zwirlein led the Nominating Committee which included Tom Curl, Mark Zalewski, Mike Hogan, Jan Constable, and Mark Thurner.
Club Member Erik Moeser recently announced that we’re excited to let everyone know that Elmbrook Rotary will be sponsoring another new young person as part of our association with Common Hope and her name is Yenifer Paola Chacon Garcia! Yenifer is taking the place of Esvin Hernandez, who graduated from high school this past month. As many of you know, our intrepid Sergeant-at-Arms, Linda Edelstein traveled to Guatemala to meet both Esvin and Yenifer recently and was able to take part in celebrating Esvin's accomplishment.
How great would it be to continue the tradition started by Linda, and by having an Elmbrook Rotarian travel to Guatemala next November to celebrate Yenifer’s graduation?! This is a wonderful opportunity for us to really connect with her and her family and if this is something you’re interested, please contact Linda for more information.
Past Club President Jan Constable recently gave his Classification at our Friday morning meeting. Jan is incredibly involved in so many of our programs and is a big advocate of literacy, having been instrumental in helping start-up our tutoring program at Capitol West Academy. If you didn't make the meeting when he spoke, here's Jan's bio and learn about his first experience with coming to a Rotary meeting. As you'll read and despite the situation, Jan was persistent and we're glad he still decided to join the club! Plus, who knew Jan was a talented Rugby player traveling to England, Ireland and Wales!!
Despite the frigid temperature outside this morning, we were warmed by the fellowship that filled the Western Racquet Club as we all get ready for the upcoming Thanksgiving Holiday. There were a lot of happy fines from members who will be joined by family or traveling next week to enjoy the holiday.
Our presentation this morning was from Rob Henken, the President of the Public Policy Forum. The Forum is a 100 year old non-partisan research organization focusing on issues critical to Milwaukee and the surrounding Metro area. Rob presented the findings of recent PPF research into the financial viability of the Milwaukee’s cultural and entertainment facilities and infrastructure including parks, museums, sports and entertainment venues. The premise of the study looked at these facilities as key economic assets vital to Milwaukee’s future.
The Forum looked at the variety of these assets, their quality, adequacy and condition. They determined what it would take to improve and maintain them in order to make them competitive with facilities located in similar cities in the country. They also looked at potential financial solutions and researched how these challenges were met by similar cities such as Denver, Oklahoma City and Pittsburgh.
Thanks to all Elmbrook Rotarians who participated in the fundraiser for SaintA and bought Boston Store Coupon Books. We reached our $1,000 goal thanks to a final contribution by Jim Dunn and the amounts have enabled the Community Service Committee to purchase a total of 9 different African drums and 1 stand.
This gift of drums from our club will be presented to SaintA by Santa on December 11th at the Annual Christmas Party. Rotarians and their spouses or significant others will have an opportunity to sign-up for the event at our club meetings on Friday November 21st and December 5th. In addition, Jan and Darcy Constable will be passing out the "Wish List" for those Club Members who wish to buy gifts for the resident boys.
With the holiday season closing-in, Elmbrook Rotary has a number of activities and events that are sure to get you in the spirit! First, there's the upcoming Packer Party on November 30th. Then enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes of Germany at the German Holiday Market on December 6th. And then take part in the Annual St. A's Christmas Party on December 12th! Please see the Club website listing for details or contact the Community Service Chair -Mike Schmeling and the Club Service Chair - Chris Spresser for details.
Longtime Elmbrook Rotarian, Ned Consigny recently gave his Classification and while we know that Ned is a big UW-Madison supporter, how many of us knew that he had a twin and received his Bachelor of Science and Masters in Dairy Science!
Ned was Born on February 11, 1934 in Madison Wisconsin. 45 minutes after he entered the world his twin brother Tom arrived and they grew up in Madison. Ned Attended UW-Madison and received his Bachelor of Science in 1957 and later received his Masters in Dairy Science in 1960. He wanted to see the world outside of Wisconsin and accepted a job with the Carnation Company in Portland, Oregon to run the Quality Control Department. During his training period, Ned realized that he was a people person and returned to Madison in 1960 to work for his Major Professor on a project in working towards his Masters degree.
Ghouls, Ghosts and Goblins were everywhere this morning with the Western Racquet Club festooned with its spookiest Halloween décor. Plus, Mother Nature added a “Trick” of her own, giving us a dusting of snow. The thought of an early winter has Club Members Ralph and Jo Gould heading to the Galapagos and some warm Southern hemisphere weather and John Allen and Doug Jacobson fleeing to Sanibel Island for some golf. But most of us are sticking around including Charley Shirley, who is finally finished with his annual Leaf-a-Thon which is up to 120 bags this year – but who’s counting?!
A shout out to Chris Spresser for organizing a fun get together at the Ruby Tap in Wauwatosa on Thursday night. And Thom Arndt, got a tap on the shoulder from President Tom Curl to tell us why he joined Rotary – The fellowship and a chance to be involved in the community attracted him to the ERC. Fellowship and Fun – ERC has it all!
Erik grew up in a small farming community in western Illinois called Alpha. At 800 people and .32 square miles, Alpha makes Elm Grove look enormous.
In 1993, Erik graduated from Bradley University in Peoria, IL, with a degree in Public Rations. He was the seventh member of this family to attend Bradley, including both of his parents and one of his two siblings. His parents are so enamored of their experience at Bradley that Erik was given the middle name of Bradley. Erik shares that love of Bradley by volunteering on the University’s Alumni Association Board of Directors.
A good hearty breakfast and warm Rotarian fellowship was just the thing for a grey Friday morning.
We heard from Club Member, Greg Bonk this morning – answering the question of “Why did I join Rotary?” The simple answer – “I was asked by another Rotarian.” It can be as straightforward as that but it may have helped since Greg knew half of the people at the first meeting he attended! Since joining ERC, Greg has gotten closer to old friends who were already Rotarians and has made many more new ones. Only regret? He still has not won the raffle, not yet anyway.
And our veteran member Classification Talk was given by Ned Consigny who joined the Club in 1988. He took us through his long and varied career – starting as Dairy Science major at UW-Madison (where he realized he liked people a lot more than cows), to manufacturing sales, to the owner of his own advertising specialty business - from which he has just recently retired. Ned’s 26 years as an Elmbrook Rotarian included serving as President and he continues in his ongoing role as Head Choral Master of the “ERC Birthday Singers.” Ned is an outstanding example of the commitment to service and the community that makes ERC the vibrant club it is.
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The Elmbrook Rotary Club Vision Team for 2019 returned from Antigua, Guatemala a few weeks ago after a week of service with Common Hope, Inc., a St. Paul, MN based Non-Profit organization which has spent the last 30 years improving lives with education, healthcare, housing, and social services. 
At our meeting last week, we announced that Mark Mirsberger, CEO of Dana Investment Advisors is the recipient of our Business Person of the Year Award. The program recognizes the leadership and accomplishments of a successful Brookfield or Elm Grove individual.
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For the past 3 weeks, we had our Annual Spring food drive to benefit the Waukesha Food Pantry which was lead by club members Gary Zwirlein and Greg Bonk. The club collected a total of 99 items weighing 130 pounds. In addition, the club contributed $1,449 in total cash donations which included a $500 match from the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation. Thanks to everyone for helping those in need!
Last month, many of you contributed to the Capitol West Academy School Supplies Drive initiated by Jan Constable and the Community Service Committee. This used to be a once a year event but with the increased demand, our club rose to the occasion and donated the following supplies..jpg)
On Saturday June 3rd, we held our 30th Annual “Spikes for Tykes” Volleyball Fundraiser at Mitchell Park in Brookfield on a day that was suited more for ducks, with rain throughout the morning. Despite the foul weather, the event was a huge success with over 50 teams showing up to play. Combined with with over 50 Elmbrook Rotarians, their spouses, friends and guests, everyone pitched in and made it a fun event.
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Thanks to all Rotarians who contributed $825.00 to the Boston Store Community Day coupon book fundraiser. $740.00 will go to the Veteran's start-up photography class, enabling the Recreation Therapist to purchase 5 digital cameras and framing supplies.
Elmbrook Rotarians came out on a chilly Wednesday night in October to enjoy the China Lights Exhibit at the Whitnall Park Boerner Botanical Gardens. Over a dozen Rotarians and friends enjoyed the numerous lighted sculptures, whimsical animals, Chinese jugglers and acrobats.
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At a recent club meeting, new member Karl Schultz gave his Classification Talk and the following provides an overview on his background. Like many Rotarians, Karl has no shortage of interests and achievements between multiple patents as an engineer, membership in the the Porsche Club of America, and former Alderman in Brookfield - list goes on...
That is correct, plural, as this year for the first time we fielded two Vision Teams to Guatemala! The first one, under the leadership of John Allen, was from February 7 to 14, and the second, under Christine Spresser was from February 21 to 28. 
Since 2009, Elmbrook Rotary has sponsored Capitol West Academy's (CWA) Annual Spelling Bee. This year, almost 200 students participated in the event! Each year we’ve provided the first and second place winners at each grade level with prizes including gift cards from Barnes and Noble Book Store. In addition, Club members act as the pronouncers for the event. Each grade level held a preliminary spelling bee in their classrooms and the top three winners for each grade completed in the school spelling bee on January 14th.
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Elmbrook Rotarians once again supported this year's German Holiday Market at Brookfield Civic Plaza on Saturday, December 5th and a host of happy hayriders took in the "balmy" conditions..jpg)
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Our annual Christmas party, for the boys of SaintA Home the night before, had everyone in good spirits this morning. Magician Gil Girard dazzled the boys with his slight-of-hand – including lifting Barry James’ watch right off of his wrist. The Grinch showed up and tried to spoil the event but fortunately Santa arrived with gifts for everyone and a pile of new games for the school game room. Poor Kevin Roche missed seeing Santa again. Seems he leaves the room every year right before Old St. Nick gets there. Maybe next year Kevin…..jpg)
Last month, longtime Rotarian and club member Ron Jones gave his classification talk at a Friday meeting and the following is his write-up. Ron's diverse career path and his dedication to volunteering are great examples of "Service Above Self.".jpg)
On the Friday before Memorial Day, our morning speaker featured Dr. Timothy McMahon who is a Professor of History at Marquette University. Tim shared his vast knowledge of WWI in a talk entitled, "Catastrophic Catalyst - The Seeds of WWI."
Our Speaker this morning was Dr David Gaus who is Founder of the Andean Health and Development. He was joined by Laura Dries who is Executive Director. Working with the rural indigenous populations of Ecuador, Andean Health is one of the international outreach programs sponsored by Elmbrook Rotary.
A group of a thirteen Elmbrook Rotarians and their guests gathered on May 13 at Bullwinkles Sports Bar in Brookfield as part of the ongoing effort by Chris Spresser and the Club Service Committee to have more social gatherings. Even the Prez and incoming Prez took part! Watch for upcoming details about the next event on June 11th at Nagawicka Lake.
Our Speaker this morning was Sportscaster, Lance Allen from TMJ TV4. He talked about his early days as a kid growing up in Rice Lake and how he was fortunate to be able to channel his love of sports into his dream career. 
Thanks to everyone who took part in our Annual Book and Magazine Drive. Approximately 225 magazines went to the Brookfield Library. 164 soft covered appropriate books were delivered to the Waukesha County Jail. In addition, 389 books were dropped off at Literacy Services of Wisconsin and 94 children books went to Capital West Academy. Wisconsin.
The Brookfield East Interact Club recently took on a project to support and recognize Earth Day which was on April 22nd. The Interact Club talked with Club Supervisor and Vocational Committee Chair, Dan Roads about ideas for a project and they were aware of past Interact clean-up projects that Club Member Jack Nelson had coordinated.
A group of a dozen Elmbrook Rotarians and their guests gathered on April 15 at Camp Bar in Wauwatosa as part of the ongoing effort by Chris Spresser and the Club Service Committee to schedule more casual social outings. These are great opportunities to get to know each other a little better while checking out some of the local establishments. Camp Bar has a unique "up north" theme that would make you think you're in Eagle River, WI! Join in the fun next month as the event is scheduled to be at Bullwinkle's Sports Bar in Brookfield on May 13
As some of us celebrated Wisconsin’s win over North Carolina on Thursday in the Sweet 16, our Friday morning meeting featured a lot of red sweaters as the outside cold temps were in the 20’s and still well below normal. With all the talk of basketball and the NCAA Tournament, we were joined by representatives from the Milwaukee Bucks, Peter Feigin and Alex Lasry who were gave us updates on plans for the new arena and talked about the direction of the team.
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Our speaker this morning was ERC Member and Brookfield Mayor, Steve Ponto. Steve gave us updates on a number of exciting projects under development along the Bluemound Road commercial corridor. He touched on plans for development of Brookfield Square, Plaza 173, in addition to the former WTMJ and Ruby Farms Property. 
On March 2, eleven Elmbrook Rotarian's and their spouses were part of over 30 participants who took part in Read Across America Day at the Capitol West Academy School on 88th Street in Milwaukee. The Read Across America Day event celebrates Dr. Seuss’ birthday and focuses on creating a love of learning. The message to kids is: reading is important, and fun!.jpg)
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No triskaidekaphobia (fear of the number 13) at our meeting today as we had a packed venue with a number of guests. We especially welcomed Tiffany Bianco and Olivia Wallesar, and their parents. Tiffany and Olivia were among the award winners from Wisconsin Leaders of Tomorrow and represented the Milwaukee area at the National Leadership Conference in St Louis this past summer. Elmbrook Rotary has been supportive of this project for the past 13 years and a number of club members have served on the Board of Wisconsin Leaders of Tomorrow.
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On January 13, 2015 the Elmbrook Rotary Club sponsored the 7th annual Capitol West Academy Spelling Bee Contest. Each year, our Club has provided Barnes and Noble gift cards to the 1st and 2nd place winners in each grade, in addition, we've helped out as being pronouncers during the contests. We're proud to support this event and continue our focus on literacy programs in the Milwaukee area. .jpg)
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Mike Schmeling, who is the current Chairperson of the Community Services Committee, recently announced the following recipients of Mini Grants after a thorough review by committee members and approval of the ERC Foundation Board. The Committee has awarded a total of $24,000 in various amounts to the following organizations:
At a recent Club Meeting, former Club President Mark Thurner announced that The Wisconsin Leaders of Tomorrow (WLT) – Elmbrook Chapter is seeking nominations for student leaders for the 2014-2015 competition. As many of you know, Mark along with other Elmbrook Rotarians currently serve on the WLT Board and many Club Members have taken part in this process over the years. The deadline for nominations that need to be turned into school representatives is Friday, January 9, 2015..jpg){kind=logo}
There were a lot of good feelings this morning, and some bleary eyes, following last night’s Christmas party for the boys at SaintA's. There were also plenty of Happy Fines congratulating the fine job of organization by Bonnie Bertram, Jan and Darcy Constable, Kevin Roche, Wally Smanski, Jeanne Allen, Kathy Becker, Greg Bonk, Dan Roads, Thom Arndt, and everyone else who helped out. Special thanks to Lind Edelstein for bringing the MYSO Steel Band to give our party a tropical Caribbean flair. Christmas is about sharing and it’s especially important to the young men at SaintA's who are going through some tough times too early in life. This is truly the Spirit of Rotary Present and is a rewarding experience for all who participate.
Club Member Erik Moeser recently announced that we’re excited to let everyone know that Elmbrook Rotary will be sponsoring another new young person as part of our association with Common Hope and her name is Yenifer Paola Chacon Garcia! Yenifer is taking the place of Esvin Hernandez, who graduated from high school this past month. As many of you know, our intrepid Sergeant-at-Arms, Linda Edelstein traveled to Guatemala to meet both Esvin and Yenifer recently and was able to take part in celebrating Esvin's accomplishment.
Past Club President Jan Constable recently gave his Classification at our Friday morning meeting. Jan is incredibly involved in so many of our programs and is a big advocate of literacy, having been instrumental in helping start-up our tutoring program at Capitol West Academy. If you didn't make the meeting when he spoke, here's Jan's bio and learn about his first experience with coming to a Rotary meeting. As you'll read and despite the situation, Jan was persistent and we're glad he still decided to join the club! Plus, who knew Jan was a talented Rugby player traveling to England, Ireland and Wales!!.jpg)
Our presentation this morning was from Rob Henken, the President of the Public Policy Forum. The Forum is a 100 year old non-partisan research organization focusing on issues critical to Milwaukee and the surrounding Metro area. Rob presented the findings of recent PPF research into the financial viability of the Milwaukee’s cultural and entertainment facilities and infrastructure including parks, museums, sports and entertainment venues. The premise of the study looked at these facilities as key economic assets vital to Milwaukee’s future.
With the holiday season closing-in, Elmbrook Rotary has a number of activities and events that are sure to get you in the spirit! First, there's the upcoming Packer Party on November 30th. Then enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes of Germany at the German Holiday Market on December 6th. And then take part in the Annual St. A's Christmas Party on December 12th! Please see the Club website listing for details or contact the Community Service Chair -Mike Schmeling and the Club Service Chair - Chris Spresser for details.
Erik grew up in a small farming community in western Illinois called Alpha. At 800 people and .32 square miles, Alpha makes Elm Grove look enormous.
We heard from Club Member, Greg Bonk this morning – answering the question of “Why did I join Rotary?” The simple answer – “I was asked by another Rotarian.” It can be as straightforward as that but it may have helped since Greg knew half of the people at the first meeting he attended! Since joining ERC, Greg has gotten closer to old friends who were already Rotarians and has made many more new ones. Only regret? He still has not won the raffle, not yet anyway.