Elmbrook Rotary Club News
October 24 is World Polio Day
Posted on Oct 07, 2021
October 24 is World Polio Day
World Polio Day is celebrated to raise awareness about polio eradication and thank thousands of healthcare workers who have contributed to removing polio from this world.
 
World Polio Day is observed on the 24th of October every year. Polio Day is an annually celebrated event to develop increased awareness about polio and take structural measures towards eradicating this disease.
Jonas Salk made a breathtaking contribution to the whole world through his discovery of the polio vaccine. The development was indeed a very significant milestone in medical history. Along with this vaccine, the oral form of ingesting this vaccine for kids below five years soon followed suit.
 
This discovery was carried forward by Albert Sabin. Thus, the world came to terms to fight against the deadly polio disease. Rotary International identified the immense efforts put in by Jonas Salk in bringing up the vaccine. Hence, every year his birth anniversary is also celebrated as World Polio Day.
 
For a summary of efforts toward ending polio and how you can become involved, view the following very short video. Click here if viewing via the Elmbrook Rotary's weekly eBulletin.
 
 
 
Read more...
Kathy's House Thanks ERC/ERF
Posted on Oct 25, 2021
Kathy's House Thanks ERC/ERF
Liz Beaudoin, Director of Marketing for Kathy's House, provides the following update.
 
Kathy's House is the Milwaukee area's only hospital guest house that serves both patients of all ages and their caregivers, and all area hospitals. We are grateful for Elmbrook Rotary Club's support of our Family Program for Patients and Caregivers, which helps offset lodging costs for economically disadvantaged families. 
 
High healthcare costs, lost wages, and travel expenses are barriers for many rural and minority families who need to travel to Milwaukee for advanced medical care. By providing housing for patients and family members while they are receiving advanced medical treatments in Milwaukee, Kathy's House helps to reduce these barriers and improve access to critical care. 

Dr. Malika Siker is a Brookfield resident, Kathy's House board member, and Professor of Radiation Oncology, Associate Dean of Student Inclusion and Diversity at the Medical College of Wisconsin. Dr. Siker describes Kathy's House as "a game-changer for improving health equity in our region. Patients and families facing serious health conditions can access lifesaving care regardless of geography, income barriers, or lack of other resources."
 
Kathy's House provides an affordable alternative to an expensive hotel room, or, more often, a stay in the caregiver's patient room, waiting room, or vehicle. Elmbrook Rotary Club's support of our Family Program ensures that entire families stay together in our "home away from home" while accessing the care they need. 
 
 
Photo Caption:  Jamie Nicklas of DeKalb, Ill., stayed at Kathy's House as grandmother Sandra Bonneville of Appleton, Wisc., underwent cancer treatment at nearby Froedtert Hospital. Jamie said, "Kathy's House is incredibly welcoming. There's a sense of community. We've been here for several weeks, and it doesn't matter who is in the House. Everyone here is really friendly and helpful. They want to share their story and share their empathy with what you're going through. It's just incredibly comforting to be here."
Mini-Grant Application Deadline
Posted on Oct 20, 2021
Mini-Grant Application Deadline
The deadline for receipt of Mini-Grant applications for 2021 is just over the horizon (October 27).
 
During 2020-2021, the Elmbrook Rotary Club/Foundation disbursed $109,781 to various charitable organizations, both domestically and internationally. Click here to view the list of recipients.
 
The Mini-Grant Application Form (in fillable PDF format) can be accessed and downloaded from both the "Foundation" and the "Resources/Frequently Requested Documents" menus on the ERC web site.
 
Please send completed application form and all required supporting documents in digital format to:  lwmyers2@att.net
Veterans in Focus Fall Exhibit
Posted on Oct 22, 2021
Veterans in Focus Fall Exhibit

For several years the Elmbrook Rotary Club/Foundation has supported the "Veterans in Focus" program. The program allows veterans to cope, using photo therapy as a way to express themselves.

Details for the next Veterans in Focus Photography Exhibit follow.

Dates of Exhibit:  November 8-12

Location:  University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Student Union, 2200 E Kenwood Blvd, Milwaukee, WI 53211

Special Meet and Greet the Veterans Artists:  12:00 p.m.—1:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 10

The exhibit is open to the public on each of the designated days from 8:00 a.m.  to 4:30 p.m.

Click on the image below to view a 12-minute video of the current exhibit. If attempting to view from the ERC weekly eBulletin, click here. Note that the video contains a credit for sponsorship by Elmbrook Rotary.

 

 
Protecting the Environment
Posted on Oct 12, 2021
Protecting the Environment
Rotary District 6270 kicked off Rotary International's newest Area of Focus with its "Environmental Days of Service" during October 4-10. Local clubs were encouraged to do anything they wanted during that week with an environmentally-focused theme.
 
Adding the "Environment" as a new area of focus provides Rotary International with the influence needed to continue sustaining humanitarian projects in the long term while also actively working to make the planet cleaner and safer for the communities it serves. This proactive approach to climate change ensures that Rotary International will be able to handle the inevitable changes arising from a warming planet amid increasing levels of pollution, deforestation, and extinction. Rotary is not alone. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, a partner of Rotary, has also added climate change to its top issues. Humanitarian organizations like Rotary have the network and resources necessary to help vulnerable communities adjust to environmental changes that are on the horizon.
 
 
RI District 6270 boasts of having been awarded the first Global Grant Scholarship in the new Area of Focus. Alaina Eckert of Sussex, WI, is the recipient. Working towards completing dual masters degrees simultaneously and currently in Germany, Alaina has been forced to adjust slightly her sequence of program studies. The Government of New Zealand has again delayed the issue of student visas until mid-2022. Alaina has therefore procured a three-six month internship with the Smithsonian Tropical Research Society in Panama, beginning in January 2022, and will hopefully proceed afterwards to New Zealand for a semester of studies at Lincoln University.
Economic and Community Development
Economic and Community Development

October: Economic and Community Development Month

Nearly 800 million people live on less than $1.90 a day. Rotary members are passionate about providing sustainable solutions to poverty.

Rotary members and The Rotary Foundation work to strengthen local entrepreneurs and community leaders, particularly women, in impoverished communities.

Rotary provides training and access to well-paying jobs and financial management institutions.

ROTARY MAKES HELP HAPPEN

Rotary creates opportunities to help individuals and communities thrive financially and socially.

ROTARY IMPACTS LOCAL ECONOMIES

Rotary members train people to become resources for their community, offering networking activities, advice on new business development, and financial management training.

The Rotary Four-Way Test challenges us to take a close hard look at the realities in our own communities. In particular, we must ask the question: “Is it Fair to All Concerned?” As a Club, through our service projects and giving, we have dedicated ourselves to improving the conditions and fairness for all concerned. Whether these efforts involve providing opportunities for at risk pre-school children to practice communication skills, serving pancakes at Breakfast with Santa, or partnering on sanitation and drinking water projects in communities in need throughout the world, they all serve to provide for economic and community development. Thank you for being a member of our Elmbrook Rotary Club and thank you for being concerned about, and dedicated to, improving the economic conditions for people in our community and throughout the world.

Noaman Sharief — ShelterBox USA Board Member
Posted on Sep 30, 2021
Noaman Sharief — ShelterBox USA Board Member
Noaman Sharief, Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) member and member of the ERC Board of Directors, has become a member of the Board of Directors of ShelterBox USA.
 
ShelterBox USA, long supported by Elmbrook Rotary, wants to see a world where no family is left without shelter when disaster strikes. Its Board of Directors and Staff share this determination and have all pledged to help make it happen. Striving to do the right thing is an important value at the heart of the organization and drives the ShelterBox commitment to improving equality, diversity, and inclusion in our work and workplace.
 
Click on Noaman's image below to view the other Board members and learn more about the mission and work of ShelterBox.
 
 
Congratulations, Noaman!
ERC in EGNI October 2021 Edition
Posted on Oct 05, 2021
ERC in EGNI October 2021 Edition
The October 2021 11th Anniversary Edition of the Elm Grove News - Independent has been printed and distributed.
 
You'll find the ERC paid ad in the "Business Directory" on p. 3, the ERC Friday meetings information on p. 5., and an article on the District 6270 Global Grant Scholarship opportunity on p. 7.
 
Click here to access and read. Copies are also available for pick up at the Elm Grove and Brookfield libraries, Sendik's, Ace Hardware, etc.
ERC Receives Rotary Citation
Posted on Sep 28, 2021
ERC Receives Rotary Citation
Craig Burnett, Past District Governor (PDG) of Rotary International District 6270 during 2020-2021, presented Elmbrook Rotary Club with the distinguished "Rotary Citation" for Rotary Year 2020-2021 at its breakfast meeting on Friday, September 24.
 
Citing the difficulty of receiving such recognition during the COVID-19 pandemic year, PDG Burnett congratulated the club for being among the very few in RI District 6270 who received the recognition.
 
 
Tom Hochuli, Immediate Past President for Elmbrook Rotary, received the citation on behalf of the club. He credited the entire membership for the achievement and offered his personal gratitude for the way(s) in which club members continued to remain active in service during 2020-2021. Congratulations, Elmbrook Rotary!
Global Grant Scholarship Opportunity
Posted on Sep 03, 2021
Global Grant Scholarship Opportunity
Rotary District 6270 is pleased to announce the availability of a Global Grant Scholarship for matriculation in the fall of 2022 or spring of 2023.
 
The amount of the scholarship is USD $30,000 and must be used for graduate school studies outside the United States. Applicants must be residents of the geographic area of D-6270 or attending an undergraduate school in the geographic area. In addition, a proposed program of study must be closely aligned with one of Rotary’s seven “Areas of Focus.” Members of Rotaract clubs are eligible to apply but not Rotarians nor their family members.
 
Deadlines are as follows:
September 1, 2021 – Application form available
January 14, 2022 – Complete Application Deadline (submit online only)
February 5, 2022 - In-Person or Zoom Interviews scheduled. An in-person interview is preferred.
February 14, 2022 – Successful Scholar Notified (for matriculation in 2022-2023 academic year.)
 
Click here to access the “Scholarships” page on the D-6270 web site for detailed information, the application form, and other supporting documents. Address any inquiries to Larry Myers, Chair of the D-6270 Scholarships Subcommittee (Email: scholarshipchair@rotary6270.org OR lwmyers2@att.net).
"Million Dollar Journey" Update
Posted on Jul 27, 2021
"Million Dollar Journey" Update

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

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

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

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

Old World Wisconsin Visits ERC
Posted on Oct 08, 2021
Old World Wisconsin Visits ERC
Elmbrook Rotary Club was treated to an update of the additions and improvements of Old World Wisconsin at its weekly meeting on Friday, October 8.
 
ERC member Fred Gettelman is a member of Rotary International's "Brew Fellowship." The purpose of this fellowship is to foster and encourage fellowship between and among Rotarians of all nations who have a love for beer and through this fellowship support international projects of The Rotary Foundation. Fred is also an active participant in constructing and operating a new brewing complex at Old World Wisconsin.
 
Dan Freas, Director of Old World Wisconsin, provided ERC with not just an update of the site but also concentrated on this newest addition. A newly constructed Brewing Experience building, combined with relocated historic Wittnebel’s Tavern and a festive outdoor Beer Garden, will allow Old World Wisconsin guests to celebrate Wisconsin’s brewing traditions like never before.
 
 
 
Mr. Freas hopes that both Rotarians and the general public will visit Old World Wisconsin to enjoy the state's history and culture. Zum Wohl!
Habitat for Humanity
Posted on Sep 25, 2021
Habitat for Humanity
Brian Sonderman, Executive Director of Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity, provided an update on the organization and its efforts on Friday, September 24.
 
Mr. Sonderman cited an abundance of data concerning the housing situation in the central city of Milwaukee. That data demonstrates the dire need for the ongoing efforts of Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity.
 
ERC President Thom Arndt announced the intention of Elmbrook Rotary Club to engage with the organization and support its efforts, including hands-on participation in building and renovating houses.
ERC Members Enjoy 2021 Elm Grove Oktoberfest
Posted on Sep 19, 2021
ERC Members Enjoy 2021 Elm Grove Oktoberfest
Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) members gathered on Saturday afternoon, September 18, to enjoy the second day of the 5th Annual Elm Grove Oktoberfest.
 
ERC member Ted Wentzel is Vice-President of the Elm Grove Community Foundation and helped organize the gala event. Food, drink (obviously, beer), music, & games highlighted the enjoyable event.
 
 
One of the highlights was the Masskrugstemmen competition. Masskrugstemmen ("Large Jug Hoisting") is a Bavarian Sport and is generally played in groups.  It consists of holding a 1-liter Stein, filled with Hofbrau beer, with one's arms. The arms must be completely stretched out and parallel to the floor. No bending of the elbows is permitted. You must hold the Stein as long as possible in this position. Winner is the one still holding the Stein(s) after the other competitors have yielded. Click on the image above to view a short clip of ERC member Christine Spresser's participation in the competition.
 
ERC members enjoy a social every month. It's part of Rotary camaraderie.
Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee
Posted on Sep 17, 2021
Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee
The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee (BGCGM) was the featured program of Elmbrook Rotary on Friday, September 17. Presenter was Kathy Thornton-Bias.
 
Kathy Thornton-Bias is the 15th president and CEO of BGCGM and the second female to lead the Clubs since its founding in 1887 by Annabell Cook Whitcomb. She grew up in a Rotarian's family and is currently a member of the downtown Milwaukee Rotary Club.
 
The BGCGM is the largest Boys & Girls Club in the country with 44 locations throughout greater Milwaukee serving approximately 5,000 youth each day. In addition to providing an overview of the BGCGM's mission and purposes, Thornton-Bias also announced the establishment of "The Learning Center," a new program at a new location that is intended to prepare teenagers for college.
Green Bay Packer Ticket Raffle Results
Posted on Sep 10, 2021
Green Bay Packer Ticket Raffle Results
 
Our 2021 Green Bay Packer Ticket Raffle fundraiser is in the books. The winners were drawn at the meeting on Friday, September 10!
 
ERC member Chris Salani drew each winning ticket, and ERC member Linda Edelstein recorded the names. The eight (8) winners are:
 
ELMBROOK ROTARY 2021 PACKER TICKET RAFFLE WINNERS
    
DATEGAMENAME 
Sep 20vs LionsGeorge Krug 
Oct 3vs SteelersRon Hegwood 
Oct 24vs WashingtonGary Rauch 
Nov 14vs SeahawksGordy Miller 
Nov 28vs RamsDoug Jacobson 
Dec 12vs BearsMargaret Schmitt 
Dec 25vs BrownsSteve Stocker 
Jan 2vs VikingsCharley Shirley 
    
 
Winners are being notified, and their e-tickets will be sent to them.
 
Again, a BIG THANKS to everyone who bought and sold tickets and to those who volunteered on Friday mornings or at the Brookfield Farmers Market. You're the reason for our success.
 
It appears as if we raised close to $5,000 before expenses, with $2,500+ in net profit going towards the organizations we support!
 
Thanks again, and GO PACK!!
 
[Special thanks also for the printing donations
by National Sign & Design - New Berlin, WI,
and Special Editions - Sussex, WI.]
 
          
Upcoming Social Events
Posted on Sep 15, 2021
Upcoming Social Events

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

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. 

Héctor Colón Motivates ERC
Posted on Sep 03, 2021
Héctor Colón Motivates ERC



Héctor Colón, CEO of Lutheran Social Services, shared his life story in a motivational presentations to Elmbrook Rotary Club on Friday, September 3.


That story is encapsulated in his book, My Journey from Boxing Ring to Boardroom:  Five Essential Virtues for Life and Leadership.

In summary, the five virtues (using the acronym of CHAMP) are:

  • Courage (willing to take risks)
  • Humility (putting others first)
  • TemperAnce (practicing restraint)
  • Magnanimity (striving for greatness)
  • Perseverance (never giving up)

Héctor Colón is the President and CEO of Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan (LSS). Under his visionary and Servant-Leadership approach, Colón has positioned LSS for greatness - adapting new models and business strategies to increase impact and viability for staff, clients, and the organization.

Colón was named a 2021 Notable Minority Leader and the 2019 Nonprofit Executive of the Year by BizTimes Media. He also was chosen as Hispanic Man of the year by United Migrant Opportunity Services (UMOS). His book is available for purchase on amazon.com and at hectorcolonmke.com.

ERC Receives ShelterBox Recognition
Posted on Aug 31, 2021
ERC Receives ShelterBox Recognition
Bill Tobin of ShelterBox USA writes:
 
"Greetings President Thom, Past President Tom, and Elmbrook Rotary Club.
 

"Congratulations on receiving ShelterBox HERO recognition for Rotary Year 2020-2021.

 

"Your support is very much appreciated. Your club will be listed on our HERO page www.shelterboxusa.org/hero

"ShelterBox has provided aid to over 2 million people since 2000. We could not have reached them without clubs like yours. The global pandemic has not stopped our efforts, and your help provided aid to over 33,000 families in 2020 and over 13,000 households in the first half of 2021.

"Help us Stock the Box for 2021-22:
https://www.shelterboxusa.org/stockthebox/

"Thank you for being a ShelterBox HERO! — Bill"

School Supplies Drive
Posted on Aug 31, 2021
School Supplies Drive
Jan Constable, Chair of the Fall 2021 School Supplies Drive, reports the following:
 
"Thanks to your generous donations, our fall school supplies drive was very successful. The supplies were divided up and donated to the 95th Street School and to Cathy's Closet at St A. 
Attached please find a complete list of the donated school supplies. Thanks again for your donations."
 
Community Service Committee
Rotary Disaster Response Fund
Posted on Aug 31, 2021
Rotary Disaster Response Fund

With more than 1.2 million members worldwide, Rotarians are on the ground and ready to take action to help communities recover when disasters strike.

Rotary members and The Rotary Foundation play a unique role in disaster recovery and rebuilding efforts. Working closely with our partners and other organizations that specialize in disaster relief, Rotary members lead projects to support every phase of a community's recovery.

Rotary supports three phases of relief:

  1. Immediate response: Our local clubs and partners immediately offer helping hands and supplies.
  2. Short-term assistance: Our clubs and districts help affected communities wherever we can through funds and materials to re-establish day-to-day operations.
  3. Long-term rebuilding: Our clubs plan and implement projects that rebuild affected communities
Although separate from the Annual Fund, contributions to the Disaster Response Fund count toward Every Rotarian, Every Year; Rotary Foundation Sustaining Member; Paul Harris Fellow; Paul Harris Society; Major Donor; and Arch Klumph Society recognition. They also count toward club recognition opportunities. Click here to donate.
Need Rotary Supplies?
Posted on Aug 10, 2021
Need Rotary Supplies?
Since 1920 the Russell Hampton Company has been Rotary's original club supplies vendor. The company is the world's largest and most respected provider of Rotary Club supplies, awards, personalized gifts, apparel, signage, and more.
 
Interested? Click on the image below.
 
Transitioning of Longtime ERC Member
Posted on Jul 17, 2021
Transitioning of Longtime ERC Member
Ron Jones has been a Rotarian for 35+ years. In July he announced to Elmbrook Rotary Club that he and his wife Barbara have sold their home here in Wisconsin and are retiring permanently to Florida. On Friday, August 27, Ron shared with ERC members 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 the Siebert Foundation."  
 
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 from any residence in the world.
 
Thanks, Ron, and richest blessings to you and Barbara as you make another "transition" in life!
 
Brad Schimel at ERC on August 20
Posted on Aug 21, 2021
Brad Schimel at ERC on August 20
Brad Schimel, Waukesha County Circuit Court Judge, addressed the Elmbrook Rotary Club on Friday, August 20, on the topic of the "Waukesha County Drug Treatment Court Program."
 

Judge Schimel grew up in the Town of Vernon and graduated from Mukwonago High School. He attended UW Waukesha for 2 years and then finished his Bachelor Degree at UW Milwaukee. He began his career in the Waukesha County Courthouse as an intern in the DA's Office in 1989, and, after graduating UW Law School in 1990, was hired as an Assistant DA. He served as an Assistant DA until he was elected Waukesha County District Attorney in 2006 and was twice reelected as DA. He left the courthouse in 2015 after being elected Wisconsin Attorney General. Brad and his family stayed here in Waukesha County, and he returned to the courthouse as a Circuit Court Judge in January 2019.
MYAC Expansion
Posted on Aug 06, 2021
MYAC Expansion
Elmbrook Rotary Club member Linda Edelstein is the Executive Director for the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra (MYSO). On Friday, August 6, together with Besty Corry, Managing Director of First Stage, and Del Wilson, Executive Director for the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center (MYAC), she provided an overview of the expansion project for the MYAC.
 
The center plans to renovate 42,000 square feet of underused space in the lower level of the current building in order to add two new rehearsal halls, six studios, and six small group instruction rooms, and to upgrade its mainstage hall on the facility’s main level.

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

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

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

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

Final Five Voting
Posted on Jul 30, 2021
Final Five Voting
On Friday, July 30, Sara Eskrich, Executive Director of Democracy Found, provided a thought-stimulating and question-provoking overview of the concept of "Final Five Voting."
 

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

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

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

Tree and Plant Disease
Posted on Jul 16, 2021
Tree and Plant Disease
Joe Addis, a Certified Arborist, visited Elmbrook Rotary on Friday, July 16. He is a Certified Arborist and a Certified Treecare Safety Professional with an associates degree and bachelor's degree in Urban Forestry. He can provide a comprehensive plant health care program, pruning recommendations, evaluation of the health and structure of trees, and a long term plan for maintaining landscapes. He works closely with residential and commercial property owners in caring for their trees and shrubs.
 
 
The information on "Tree and Plant Disease," which he provided to ERC, was much appreciated. One member commented:  "I wish that I had learned this years ago!"
Elmbrook Rotary's Arms Spread Wide
Posted on Jul 12, 2021
Elmbrook Rotary's Arms Spread Wide
Rotary International is a world-wide organization of about 1.2 million business people and professionals in 35,000 clubs dedicated to serving others. 
 
With about 80 members, the Elmbrook Rotary Club is part of Rotary International District 6270, whose geographic area covers southeastern Wisconsin.  There are 54 local clubs in D-6270 as well as numerous Interact Clubs and Rotaract Clubs.
 
Over the past three years, Rotarians in this district have contributed or raised more than $1.3 million for projects. These ranged from local needs to international activities in Guatemala, Haiti, India, and Ecuador.

In addition, some $35,000 was designated for CoViD-19 relief in Wisconsin communities and around the world.
 
D-6270 Rotarians also contributed $70,000 toward eliminating the few remaining pockets of polio in South Asia. This was matched by the Rotary International Foundation's Polio Plus Fund and the Bill and Melina Gates Foundation for a total of $420,000.
 
Does Rotary make a difference? You be the judge.
Meet Rotary's New President
Posted on Jul 03, 2021
Meet Rotary's New President
The Rotary International President for 2021-2022 is Shekhar Mehta, member (since 1985) of the Rotary Club of Calcutta-Mahanagar, Calcutta, India. He and spouse Rashi look forward to meeting as many Rotarians as possible during this new Rotary year.
 
 
Shekhar has chosen "Serve to Change Lives" as the theme for 2021-2022. He states the following about the theme:  "Imagine the change we, as Rotary members, can make when there are so many more of us! More people to care for others, more people to Serve to Change Lives. Think of the impact we can have through grow more, do more. More members will enable us to embark on bigger and bolder service projects. And each of us can also continue to serve in our own personal ways, responding to needs in our communities."
 
To read what family and colleagues have to say about him, click here. 
ERC Abounds in Paul Harris Fellow Recognitions
Posted on Jul 03, 2021
ERC Abounds in Paul Harris Fellow Recognitions
At its Changing of the Guard ceremony held on June 30, Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) announced forty-three Paul Harris Fellow recognitions.  These included six first-time Paul Harris fellows, six presented as gifts from a Rotarian to a spouse or child, and thirty-one additional recognitions of Rotarians who were already Paul Harris Fellows.

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

Announcement of the matching program generated a Paul Harris “buzz” among club members and prompted many of them to make contributions they might not otherwise have made. The matching program, which runs through the end of the current calendar year, has already generated more than $9,200 of donations to The Rotary Foundation. In addition, the presentation of so many recognitions at the Changing of the Guard event has prompted several members to indicate that they will make Paul Harris donations before the end of the calendar year.  The net result of the matching program has been a substantial increase in contributions to The Rotary Foundation and more engagement by the members of Elmbrook Rotary Club.
2021 ERC Scholarships Awarded
Posted on May 27, 2021
2021 ERC Scholarships Awarded
ERC President Tom Hochuli presented scholarships to the following students from Brookfield East (on May 19) and Brookfield Central (May 25):
 
 
Brookfield East:
 
Christian Stiyer—4-year scholarship to attend Ohio University and pursue degrees in Wildlife Biology and Film Production.
 
Brookfield Central:
 
Hannah Heun—4-year scholarship to pursue a nursing degree at Saint Louis University.
 
Seth Olski—2-year scholarship to attend UW Milwaukee in pursuit of an Associate Degree in Kinesiology and Exercise Science (or Pre-Physical Therapy).
 
   
 
Congratulations and best wishes
to these aspiring post-secondary scholars!
 
 
Meet Ana Ramirez
Posted on Jan 06, 2021
Meet Ana Ramirez
Ana V. Ramirez is the 8th student at the Common Hope School in Guatemala who has been sponsored by the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation.
 
 
Ana's family income is U.S. $364/month, and the six-member family lives in a small concrete-block home (10 meters by 10 meters). They obtain water and electricity from neighbors and must use an outhouse for a bathroom.
 
Ana is an 11th Grade student, enrolled in Marketing and Advertising Certification. Her anticipated graduation date is November 2022. Since 2014, six members of Elmbrook Rotary Club (accompanied by four family members) have made the trip to Guatemala for the graduation exercises, a weekend-long celebration with, and support for, our sponsored student and her/his family. Any club member can volunteer to represent the club. Contact Erik Moeser if interested.
African Region Polio Free
African Region Polio Free
The World Health Organization (WHO) on August 25. 2020, announced that transmission of the wild poliovirus has officially been stopped in all 47 countries of its African region. This is an historic and vital step toward global eradication of polio, which is Rotary’s top priority.
 
[Click on the photo above to read the full story.]
 
Now that the African region is free of wild poliovirus, five of WHO’s six regions, representing more than 90 percent of the world’s population, are free of the disease. Polio caused by the wild virus is still endemic in Afghanistan and Pakistan (the WHO’s Eastern Mediterranean region).
Why Join Rotary?
Posted on Aug 02, 2021
Why Join Rotary?

20 Reasons to Join Rotary


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

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

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

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

  5. Citizenship in the Community: Membership in a Rotary club makes one a better community citizen. The average Rotary club consists of the most active citizens of any community.
Read more...
TRF Donor Opportunities
Posted on Jan 29, 2020
TRF Donor Opportunities
 
 
WHAT DOES THE ROTARY FOUNDATION DO WITH ITS MONEY?
 
 
The Rotary Foundation spends charitable contributions on multiple programs - from the eradication of polio, to scholarships, vocational training teams, Rotary Peace Centers, and humanitarian projects. The funds are used for programs and projects Rotarians feel passionate about. With a four-star rating by Charity Navigator for ten years in a row and over 1.2 million Rotarians overseeing the funds at a grassroots level, you have all the confidence in the world that your funds through Rotary are in amazing hands doing amazing work here and abroad.
 
You can read stories and see the details
of The Rotary Foundation’s financials
in the most recent Annual Report on rotary.org. 
 
 
Online ERC & ERF Payments/Donations
Posted on Sep 11, 2019
Online ERC & ERF Payments/Donations
It is now possible for members of Elmbrook Rotary Club (ERC) to make online payments and donations both to ERC and to the Elmbrook Rotary Foundation (ERF).
 
Two separate commercial merchant accounts have been activated which intend to keep transactions separated between ERC and ERF.
 
To make payments to ERC, simply follow the link provided in one's individual club account (and quarterly statements). A surcharge of 5% is billed to one's club account when utilizing a credit card or debit card.
 
To make donations or payments to ERF, simply click the "Donate" or "Donate Now" button that can be found on multiple pages on the ERC web site. Or, one can click the URL link that will be provided in ERF invoices to club members. Please ensure that donations or payments intended for the ERF account are not made to the ERC account. The opposite is also true. And, please remember that not all payments to the Foundation [a 501(c)(3) entity] are tax-deductible. IRS rules and policies must be followed.
 
 
Finally, one can always use the old-fashioned (and least expensive) way of payment/donation with an individual check or bank check via "Bill Pay" at one's bank.
Image
Members of the 2019 Guatemala Vision Team stand in front of the house they built in February along with the Ventura family who will be living there!
About Elmbrook Rotary
Elmbrook Rotary Club was founded by 26 Brookfield and Elm Grove, Wisconsin, USA business leaders to promote fellowship as a foundation for community service, ethical ideals and the advancement of international understanding, goodwill and peace. Elmbrook Rotary Club is also proud to sponsor The Brookfield East High School Interact Club, a service oriented group of high school students. Our mailing address is: Elmbrook Rotary, P.O. Box 1014, Brookfield WI 53008-1014.
 
ERC Peace Initiative
Elmbrook Rotary Club has embarked upon a "Peace Building Project."
 
 
Announced and previewed on Friday, October 18, the project will stretch over multiple years as the club and its membership engage in peace building in Milwaukee.
 
View the embedded video from the Rotary Action Group for Peace. If not viewable, follow the URL linked to "Rotary: Peace Is . . ."
 
For a detailed look at ERC's peace initiative, view the PDF entitled "ERC Peace Building Project." Above all, stay tuned and become involved as the project unfolds.

2021 Business Person of the Year

 
The Elmbrook Rotary Club has opened nominations for the 2021 Business Person of the Year Award to honor a strong local leader who has entrepreneurial skills and strategic vision.  Applicants must be a majority owner and/or operating head of a successful for-profit business or non-profit organization.  Additionally, applicants must be living in and/or have a business located in the City/Town of Brookfield or Village of Elm Grove.
 
Nominations for this award will be accepted through Friday, October 15, via the Elmbrook Rotary Club website only. Click here or on the image above to complete and submit a nomination.
 
The Elmbrook Rotary Club will publicly announce and honor the award winner at our Friday morning, October 29th meeting, 7:00-8:00 a.m. at the Western Racquet Club in Elm Grove.
 

Learn More

Rotary 2021-2022 Theme
ERC Calendar
October 2021
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Rotary Links
Rotary Four-Way Test
Of the things we think, say or do:
  1. Is it the truth?
  2. Is it fair to all concerned?
  3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
  4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned?
Service Above Self
- Learn more about our guiding principles
 
Rotary's Four Way Test

Of the things we think, say or do:

  1. Is it the truth?
  2. Is it fair to all concerned?
  3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
  4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Service Above Self

- See more at: http://portal.clubrunner.ca/5700/#sthash.YgEI863i.dpuf

Of the things we think, say or do:

  1. Is it the truth?
  2. Is it fair to all concerned?
  3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
  4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Service Above Self

- See more at: http://portal.clubrunner.ca/5700/#sthash.YgEI863i.dpuf

Of the things we think, say or do:

  1. Is it the truth?
  2. Is it fair to all concerned?
  3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
  4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Service Above Self

- See more at: http://portal.clubrunner.ca/5700/#sthash.YgEI863i.dpuf
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Our Meeting Location
Whether you're a visiting Rotarian or someone interested in finding out what Rotary's all about, please feel free to join us on Friday Mornings. You'll receive a hearty welcome - plus a whole lot more!
 
Our meetings are held at the Western Racquet Club in Elm Grove.

ImageWHEN: Elmbrook Rotary Club is a breakfast club that meets every Friday from 7:00-8:00 AM
 
WHERE:  Western Racquet Club in Elm Grove, WI. 1800 Highland Drive
 
COST: $17 Breakfast
 
Venue Map          District Site           How to Join
Speakers
Ralph Gould
Oct 29, 2021
2021 Business Person Of The Year
Engineers Without Borders -- Marquette Chapter
Nov 05, 2021
Guatemala Engineering Projects
Dr. Daniell Bastian
Nov 19, 2021
Bürgermeister der Einhardstadt Seligenstadt (Mayor of Einhardstadt Seligenstadt) Brookfield‘s Sister
Annual Meeting
Dec 03, 2021
View entire list...
Upcoming Events
View More...
ERC Facebook Page
Like Us On Facebook
Follow Us on Twitter
 
 
Support the Foundation of the Elmbrook Rotary Club
 
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Kiwanis Lions Optimist Rotary join for week of service to Celebrate Community

Kiwanis, Lions, Optimist, Rotary, join for week of service to Celebrate CommunityEVANSTON, ILL.: October 7, 2021 – Celebrate Community, a joint initiative of the four major volunteer service organizations, will launch

The Best Chance to Eradicate Polio is Now

World Health Organization’s polio chief, Aidan O’Leary explains why now is our best chance to eradicate polio.

Join us for Rotary’s World Polio Day Online Global Update

Join us for Rotary’s World Polio Day Online Global Update Rotary International14-October-2019  Mark your calendar to join us on 24 October 2019, for Rotary’s World Polio Day

RI President-elect Jennifer Jones announces Rotary’s $97 million pledge for sustainable projects during Global Citizen Live

The star-studded global event rallied people to take action on some of the world’s most urgent problems.

Photo Albums
Club Officers
President
Thom Arndt
President Elect
Harry Farchmin
Secretary
Christine Spresser
Treasurer
Mark Zalewski
Sergeant-at-Arms
Thomas Steinbach
Immediate Past President
Tom Hochuli
Director (Past President)
Paul Langer
Director
Jim Dunn
Director
Noaman Sharief
Director
Jackson Bubolz
Director
Gordy Miller
Director
Jeanne Allen
Director
Bonnie Bertram
Membership
John Allen
Programs
Mark Thurner
Public Image Chair
Larry Myers
The Rotary Foundation
Tom Curl
In Recognition . . .
 
The Elmbrook Rotary Club and Foundation are pleased to recognize the following individuals.
 
Foundation Director Emeritus:
     William Isbister (deceased)
 
Club Honorary Members:
    Tom Ehrsam, Jane Koons, & Renato Westby

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