Visiting and prospective Rotarians are always welcome. We hope to see you there! 

Club Information

Service Above Self

We meet In Person
Tuesdays at 12:00 PM
River Club of Mequon
12400 North Ville Du Parc Drive
Mequon, WI 53092
United States of America
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Home Page Stories
Service & Storytelling: Life at the Pentagon

We have a most appropriate guest for Veterans Day.

Vice Admiral Dirk J. Debbink, U.S. Navy Reserve (retired) served on active duty with U.S. Navy as the 12th Chief of Navy Reserve on the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations in Washington, DC, from July 2008 to August 2012 prior to his retirement on 30 September 2012.  His service as a Surface Warfare Officer began in 1977 when he reported aboard USS FANNING (FF-1076), as Main Propulsion Assistant and later as Navigator during a Western Pacific deployment.  His 35 years of active involved with the Navy included approximately 11 years active duty and 24 years of drilling reserve duty, including four years as the Reserve Deputy Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

In his civilian capacity, he is Chairman of MSI General Corporation in Oconomowoc, WI.  The company is a design-build general contractor specializing in new construction and renovation of industrial, retail, commercial and institutional buildings throughout Southeast Wisconsin.

He currently serves on the board of directors of Cincinnati Financial Corporation of Cincinnati, OH; Navy League of the United States – Milwaukee Council; and Discovery World Museum in Milwaukee. He previously served as president of Fisher House Wisconsin and chairman of First Bank Financial Centres in Oconomowoc, WI.

VADM Debbink graduated from the US Naval Academy in 1977 and earned his MBA from the University of Chicago in 1990. He is registered as a Professional Engineer and a Real Estate Broker in the State of Wisconsin.

 

October 24: A Day for Global Unity & Global Health
October 24 holds a dual significance that few days can match: it is both United Nations Day and World Polio Day. One honors our collective aspirations for peace and cooperation; the other celebrates a milestone in humanity’s ongoing journey toward a polio-free world.
These two observances share more than a date—they share a purpose. Both remind us of what is possible when people, communities, and countries come together to solve problems bigger than any one nation can handle alone.
Since 1988, thanks to the efforts of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI)—a partnership that includes the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and Rotary International—polio cases have dropped by more than 99.9%. We are this close to eradicating a disease that once paralyzed hundreds of thousands of children every year.
The United Nations has long been a cornerstone of that effort, ensuring that vaccines reach even the most remote and unstable regions. It’s proof of what multilateralism can accomplish: practical progress that saves lives.
But the job isn’t finished. Polio still exists in a handful of countries. And in an interconnected world, it only takes one missed vaccination to risk resurgence.
What can you do today?
Get informed. Learn the facts about polio and how close we are to ending it forever.
Support global health organizations. Even a small donation can fund critical vaccinations.
Talk about it. Share stories and stats about polio eradication. Many people think it’s already gone.
Thank frontline workers. Whether doctors, UN personnel, or volunteers—they’re the backbone of this fight.
Advocate for peace and access. Polio thrives in conflict zones. Peacebuilding and public health go hand in hand.
Let today be a reminder: global problems demand global solutions. When we unite across borders for a shared mission—like eradicating disease or preserving peace—everyone wins.
#WorldPolioDay #UnitedNationsDay #EndPolio #GlobalHealth #UN75 #PeopleOfAction #PublicHealth #OneWorld
Cookies & Courage: Cookie Artist’s Sweet Story + Activity
Melissa Wolfram, Owner of Truly Scrumptious Cookies LLC in Mequon, will join us Tuesday to tell us about her tasty business. 
 
 
Truly Scrumptious Cookies specializes in creating deliciously fun cookie favors that will leave your clients with the Sweetest Impression of your organization. Our cookies are baked fresh to order in our commercial kitchen, using quality ingredients like King Arthur Flour, Land O'Lakes Butter & Premium Vanilla Extract. Each cookie is hand decorated with a soft, delicious glaze, then charmingly embellished with royal icing. A perfect combination!

Years of experience and a very organized system easily enables us to create corporate sized quantities. Lead time is generally 1 week for standard designs and a few weeks for custom designs. Treat your customers to a Truly Scrumptious Cookie and you'll be joining the ranks of some of our prominent business clients like Tory Burch, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Microsoft, Sam Edelman, Morgan Stanley and Mont Blanc. We ship year round to every state in the US! FedEx is our preferred carrier to safely and promptly deliver your delicious cookies.
 
For more information, visit Melissa's website (www.TSCookies.com) or visit her Etsy Shop: www.TSCookies.Etsy.com
Last call for Family Cooking Class
Join the TM Rotary Cooking Class!
 
 
📅 Thursday, November 13, 2025
🕟 4:30 – 6:00 PM
📍 Happy Place Cooking Space W57N14280 Doerr Way, Cedarburg, WI
💲 $50 per person
 
What You’ll Gain:
  • Practical kitchen tips
  • Simple prep-ahead strategies
  • Repeatable recipes for healthy mornings
You’ll leave with a ready-to-go meal prep of breakfast items to enjoy at home!
 
Class Plan & Menu:
  • Start with a tasty amuse-bouche: Chewy Breakfast Cookies
  • Prepare and take home: Make-Ahead Breakfast Sandwiches & Everyday Overnight Oats
 
Registration Deadline: October 21
Behind the Lens: A Unique View of the Green Bay Packers
 
 
At last week's Rotary meeting, longtime Green Bay Packers team photographer, Jim Biever, shared shots taken by him and his father before him.
 
As team photographer, Jim had access to the players in ways most fans can't even imagine. Yes, there fabulous action shots, lots of trophies, and community events. But we also saw the players goofing around in the lockeroom and on tour buses. 
 
Biever’s photographs are now represented by Getty Images and AP Images, available for publication in newspapers, books, TV networks, websites and advertising worldwide. Jim Biever images, often emotional, often iconic, preserve the spirit of Green Bay Packers football legacy.
Chef’s Table Live: Culinary Stories & Tutorial

Who hasn’t had one of those moments after a hectic and exhausting day when you ask, “Can’t somebody just come over to my house and cook for me?”

When Karen Wilets, owner of the Good Life Catering company, recognized this niche in the culinary world, she sought to fill it. Wilets’ success story began when she started supplementing her income by making desserts for the restaurant where she was employed. Her reputation for phenomenal sweets grew, and people started to ask when she was going to make other foods. Three years ago, the demand for Wilets’ food was so great, she was able to leave her job and commit herself to the Good Life, her homegrown business specializing in catering and personal chef services.

“People don’t have to go out to a restaurant to get a perfectly plated, creative and delicious meal,” Wilets explains. “I want my clients and their friends to feel like they just had food from the best restaurant in town, but in the comfort of their own home.”

While the Good Life accommodates cocktail parties, gourmet champagne brunches and catered corporate events, the business is gaining notice for its creative take on a private, in-home multi-course dinner with wine pairing. For a “Mystery Dinner,” a host or hostess invites 10 to 20 guests with instructions to bring their own “portion of protein,” anything from alligator to textured vegetable protein. Without any knowledge of what the guests will be bringing, chef Wilets, with a nod to “Iron Chef,” designs an eight-course meal around the ingredients.

“The last time I made a mystery dinner I was given four live lobsters,” Wilets says. “Whatever it is, I will make it work.”

She has a gift for spontaneous recipes that carry the flavor and texture of a dish that has been time-tested. Guests can expect petite plates that arrange color and dimension in a presentation that reflects the art degree Wilets earned from UW-Madison.

The Good Life also offers intimate cooking classes for four that teach students recipes and culinary techniques ranging from South American cuisine to sushi rolling. Once they have completed at least four classes, Wilets treats students to a dinner for two. “For me, eating scrumptious food and having fun with friends is the good life,” Wilets says. “I try to bring the good life to every event we’re invited to.”

For more information on the Good Life Catering, call (414) 416-2005 or visit www.glcatering.com.

Russ earns fifth Paul Harris Award
 
Russ Witte-Dycus earned his fifth Paul Harris Award. 
 
Paul Harris (1868-1947) founded Rotary Gustavus Loehr, Silvester Schiele, and Hiram Shorey. They gathered at Loehr’s office in downtown Chicago for what would become known as the first Rotary club meeting, February 23, 1945. Continuing the legacy of our founder, the Paul Harris Society recognizes individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International.
Butterflies & Balance: Monarch Education & Interaction
Raising Monarch butterflies from egg to release is a passion for Shelly Culea. This has led Shelly to also become an expert in growing pollinator plants and establishing butterfly gardens.

Traveling to the UNESCO World Heritage Monarch Sanctuaries in Mexico was a remarkable and profound experience for Shelly.  Since the 2015 Monarch Sanctuary visit, she has volunteered to help the butterfly by presenting Monarch lectures, workshops and installing Butterfly Gardens in area public and private land.   Shelly has installed Butterfly Gardens at the Port Washington City Hall, seven Group Homes, the Villa Terrace Museum and the Woman’s Club of Wisconsin. Through Shelly’s enthusiasm and encouragement she is able to persuade citizens to embrace the Monarch butterfly and help it’s recovery.

To learn about the three Monarch Lectures Shelly can present to your organization please go to: www.monarchprograms.com
 
No meeting this week, but lots of news!
 
 
Thiensville-Mequon Rotary Club Members are taking center stage at Mequon-Thiensville Chamber of Commerce Events this fall. 
 
Wednesday, September 17, the Chamber Luncheon features Jenne Hohn, Sandy Custer, and Kathleen Schneider talking about the Rotary All-User Playground. The trio will discuss the importance of building community through inclusive play. The luncheon will be at North Shore Country Club, 3100 West Country Club Drive. Make your reservation directly through the Chamber. In the comments section please note:  I want to sit with other T-M Rotarians.  
 
The Mequon-Thiensville Chamber of Commerce is honoring our own Angelica Niemann as Next Generation Leader Wednesday, October 23, 5 to 8pm, at the Watermark at Shully's, 146 Green Bay Road, Thiensville. Please make your reservations directly through the Chamber. In the comments section please note:  I want to sit with other T-M Rotarians. 
Meet the Team designing the Rotary Park Playground
Join us for the Rotary Park Playground Rotary Joint Meeting and meet the team who will bring this all-inclusive park to life.
 
Registration is now live for the October 1 event at Reuter Pavilion. Please sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C054FAEAD2EA3F4C25-58090956-joint
 
The food for the event is being generously donated by Highland House. The deadline to register is September 24.
 
Melinda Pearson, Regional Manager for Landscape Structures:
With 30+ years in the recreation industry, Melinda has led hundreds of creative, user-focused projects worldwide. 
 
Jill Moore Inclusive Play Specialist and Employee Owner for Landscape Structures:
Jill focuses on best design practices for multi-generational spaces, inclusive play environments, and universal design principles. 
 
Meghan Barrett, Consultant, CPSI:
Meghan brings a great perspective on inclusivity and a passion to promote play in the most inclusive, safe, and imaginative way.
 
Hollie Rickey, President of Gerber Leisure Products - Landscape Structures Wisconsin Representative:
Holly's firm is a leading designer and installer of commercial playgrounds, splash pads, shelters, site furnishings, and everything that makes a park come to life. 
Read more...
TM Rotary efforts improve health in Guatemala
 
TM Rotary is busy here at home, but at our September 9 meeting, Shelly Weston and Ellen MacFarlane will take us to Central America to tell us about the impact our club has in Guatemala.

The Thiensville-Mequon Rotary Clubs established the Guatemala Medical Resources Partnership (GMRP) in 2005 to help the people living in the Department of Santa Rosa, a remote area of the country on the Pacific coast, who did not have access to adequate health care. Every year, dedicated health care providers, interpreters, and other volunteers travel at their own expense to the small village of Oliveros in Santa Rosa to provide medical, dental, vision, nutrition, and pharmacy services to the local community in desperate need of such care. In 2012, it became apparent that many of the patients also required continuing care, mostly surgery, which, because of poverty, lack of transportation, and inability to negotiate the hospital system, they were unable to access. As a result, in 2014, GMRP established the Guatemala Continuing Care Project which provides these individuals and families with the care they require. With a gift of $200, one patient is able to obtain the surgery he or she needs. To learn more go to: http://gmrp.org/
Turning the Page: Jail Literacy Program
The Ozaukee County Jail Literacy Program (OCJLP), established in 1992 as a nonprofit, provides educational opportunities to incarcerated adults. Wisconsin's first private jail education program, OCJLP relies solely on grants and donations, receiving no taxpayer funds.
 
Group Presentation from the Board: Sheriff Knowles, Angelica Niemann, Kathie Gordon, Grace Eernisse, and Holly Ryan

Programs Offered:

  • Basic literacy skills
  • Goal setting, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills
  • Computer literacy courses
  • Financial literacy courses
  • Job readiness
  • Workforce development
  • General Education Diploma (GED) or High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) completion with on-site testing
  • Family literacy
  • Mindfulness
  • Art Workshops
Letter of support from the Sheriff:

“The Ozaukee County Jail Literacy Program does more than provide an education to those who are incarcerated. The Jail Literacy Program is also a support system for incarcerated individuals enrolled in the program, allowing them to gain confidence, skills, and relationships that will help foster their success. The Jail Literacy Program is an asset for the Ozaukee County Jail, and I am grateful for their partnership.” -Christy Knowles - Ozaukee County Sherriff

Letter of Support from Former Students:

“Twenty-five years ago, I got myself into some trouble. Shortly after my incarceration, I enrolled in the Ozaukee County Jail Literacy Program. This program offers inmates an opportunity to study and I received strong instruction from compassionate teachers. While in jail, I earned my HSED. Along with that achievement came self-confidence, which enabled me to further my education after my sentence. The Ozaukee County Jail — and the inmates who choose to enroll in this program, are truly blessed.”-Alex

Speaker (August 26): Civic Snapshot: Business Meeting/ Village Voice: Thiensville President John Rosing Speaks
John and Mimi Rosing have lived at 512 Alta Loma Drive in Thiensville for 32 years, raising four children who all attended Mequon-Thiensville School District schools.
  • President of the Village of Thiensville April 2024 - Present     
  • 42-year career in Hospital Administration and as Executive Vice President of a nation-wide consulting practice known as Patton Healthcare Consulting, a firm focused on improving acute care hospital quality of care, safety, and accreditation status
  • Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives
  • 31-year parishioners of Lumen Christi Catholic Church
  • Grand Knight/Sir Knight, St. Pope John Council 5438 Knights of Columbus, 4th Degree
  • 31-year member of the Thiensville-Mequon Rotary Club
  • Family and Community Service Award, Mequon-Thiensville Sunrise Rotary Club 2014-2015
  • Rotarian of the Year, Thiensville-Mequon Rotary Club 2019-2020
  • Member Downtown Thiensville Business Association (TBA)
  • Member Mequon-Thiensville Historical Society and Friend of the Jonathon Clark House Museum
  • Contributor to the Mequon Thiensville Community Foundation
  • Participant or volunteer in numerous Village and community events over 30 years, e.g., leading the restoration of the historic and lovely Yellow Farmhouse at the intersection of Freistadt and Park Crest Roads
Read more...
City Pulse: Mayor Andy of Mequon Shares Updates

  
Andrew Nerbun was elected as Mequon’s 12th mayor in April of 2022. He previously served as the Alderman for District 7 from April of 2012 to March of 2017 and Alderman for District 8 from April of 2017 to April of 2022. Andrew served on the Public Safety Committee and Public Works Committee.  Additionally, Andrew has been a Den Leader and Pinewood Derby Chair for Boy Scout Pack 3865, helped coach various youth sports groups and participated in the Mequon Community Conversation Task Force. 

Andrew currently works at Leonardo DRS, where he holds the position as Director of Mechanical Engineering. Andrew holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Marquette University.

Amazing things happen because of Rotary
When we join Rotary, we're never alone. We've entered into a fellowship that includes 1.2 million people across the world, is 36,443 clubs. My goal is to use this newsletter to highlight a Rotary initiative somewhere around the globe. 

From rotary.org:

United States

To help people affected by the financial crisis of 2008, the Rotary Club of Summit County (Frisco) began serving a weekly dinner free of charge in the Colorado ski town. Sixteen years later, they haven’t stopped. In January, the club and its partners served their 200,000th meal. “The housing and mortgage crisis deeply affected people in Summit County, so in November 2008 I went to a nonprofit in the county and asked the director what was needed to help people through it,” says club member Deborah Hage. “For people displaced, living in their cars, or sofa surfing, there was no way for them to prepare meals with the food being distributed by the food banks and pantries.” On a typical Tuesday night, 100 to 500 people — children, families, retirees, and even donors who simply enjoy the camaraderie — come together to share restaurant-quality dinners and good company.

Liz reminds Rotarians to tell their story
Posted by Rachel Muchin Young
District 6270 Governor Liz Nevitt joined us for lunch August 5 to share her Rotary story. She talked about what Rotarians can do, about the difference Rotarians make in the world. 
 
She reminded everyone that Rotary is a safe place. That struck me as particularly poingant in this divisive moment in time. We focus on what we can accomplish together. 
 
She talked about Rotary initiaves, particularly eradicating polio telling us that when talking about the project someone once commented that Rotary is the only organization that has the audacity to start such a monumental program, AND the tenacity to finish the job.  
 
We are closer than ever to ending polio, but outbreaks and challenges persist. Polio, the deadly viral disease that was once the leading cause of paralysis among children worldwide, is very close to being eradicated. Since 1988, the number of children affected by polio has reduced by 99.9 per cent. For more information about Polio Plus, click here. 
Rotarians help central Texas flood victims
Rotary District 5840 is now accepting tax-deductible donations through our 501(c)(3) Foundation to support urgent disaster relief efforts following the devastating flooding in Kerrville and nearby areas.
As many of you know, the Guadalupe River rose over 30 feet—well above its major flood stage—resulting in tragic loss of life and severe damage. Kerrville is home to two of our own Rotary Clubs, and together we are committed to standing with the community as they begin the long road to recovery.
Your generous contribution will:
  • Provide some immediate relief to affected families
  • Support local Rotarians in cleanup and rebuilding efforts
  • Fund long-term recovery solutions within our communities
We are working hand-in-hand with the Rotary Clubs of Kerrville, who will guide us on how best to direct support and when it will be safe for volunteers to mobilize.

💛 How to Donate

We are offering multiple ways to give:
📲 Credit Card
Make a secure online donation via credit card:
👉 https://rotary5840.org/donate/district-5840-disaster-relief/
✉️ Check
Make checks payable to: Rotary District 5840 Foundation
Memo: Disaster Relief
Mail to: Rotary District 5840 Foundation, P.O. Box 13, Boerne, TX 78006
💻 Zelle Payment
Send using Zelle to: D5840floodrelief2025@gmail.com
Memo: Disaster Relief
Please add your email address and/or contact information in the comment section if you want a tax receipt.
A volunteer hotline will be available later this week - stay tuned!
This is our time to live Rotary’s values — to lead with compassion, serve with action, and Unite for Good. 
 
Please give what you can. Let's show everyone what Rotary can do when we "unite for good"!!
 
Thank you!
 
Liz Nevitt
Rotary District 6720 Governor
Rotary Forward: Visit from District Governor Liz
Elizabeth “Liz” Nevitt is the District 6720 Governor for the 2025/2026 Rotary year. 

Liz is a fourth generation Rotarian. She joined the Menasha Rotary Club in 1998 and moved to the Ripon Rotary Club in 2012. Liz served as President of each club twice, and held other club leadership roles. At the District level, she served as Assistant Governor for three years, District Family of Rotary Resource Group Coordinator and has been the District Stewardship Subcommittee Chair for the past three years. Liz is also a Rotary Foundation Major Donor, Paul Harris Sustaining Member, and the District's newest PolioPlus Society member.
 
 
Rotary All-User Playground Website is Live
Posted by Jenne Hohn
We’re excited to share something we’ve been working on related to this vital community project — our brand-new Rotary All-User Playground Website is now live!
 
 
You’ll find the “what”, “why”, “who”, “when”, and “how” of this transformative project designed to serve as the heart of our community.
 
If you have any questions or would like to know more before our next club presentation, please reach out to: 
  • Jenne Hohn, Noon Club
  • Lynn Streeter, Sunrise Club
Thank you in advance for your interest and support!
Counsellor's Business Meeting
The first Rotary business meeting with Jim Counsellor at the helm will require all of us to look at goals for our club. 
 
Increasing membership is always a goal, but Jim wants us to look at that goal quantitively. How many members do we want to welcome to our club, then a plan to make that happen. 
 
Other foci will be fundraising, veterans affairs, participation in district-wide initiatives, and increasing support and involvement in current programs, including the Rotary Park All-Inclusive Playground, the Guatemala project, and more.
 
Attend this very important meeting. We guarantee it will be interesting -- and the food will be great. This week's Head Chef is Heather Mader. 
 
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Rotary Links
Home Page Download Files
Links
 
Speakers
Amelia Figg-Franzoi - Homestead Theatre Teacher
Nov 18, 2025
Spotlight on Youth: The Power of Musical Theatre
Board
Nov 18, 2025 11:00 AM
Monthly Board Meeting
Schlorship
Nov 18, 2025 12:00 PM
Homestead Stedent of the month
Jim Counsellor
Nov 25, 2025 12:00 PM
NO MEETING
Chef Hadley Shully
Dec 02, 2025
Festive Bites: Shully’s Holiday Appetizer Demo
Pickleball Kingdom
Dec 09, 2025
Winter Rally: Pickleball Pro Tips + Kingdom Launch
CHRISTMAS PARTY
Dec 16, 2025 12:00 PM
NO MEETING
Dec 23, 2025
NO MEETING
Dec 30, 2025
Sally Wagner & Lauren O'Brien
Jan 06, 2026
Fresh Start: Happy Place Kitchen Returns + Healthy Meal Prep
Rachel Proeber
Jan 13, 2026
DIY Dreams: Board & Brush Story
Tom Howel
Jan 20, 2026
Life as a Professional & Olympic Curler
James Kieselburg
Feb 03, 2026
Invention Meets Inspiration: Tour of the Grohmann Museum
Sarah Uhing
Feb 10, 2026
Sweet Histories: Captain Chocolatier + Chocolate Tasting
Matt Panelli
Feb 17, 2026
Heart of a Survivor
Judge Williams
Mar 03, 2026
Order in the Court: Behind the Bench
Jake Meier-Director of Marketing & Communications
Mar 10, 2026
Brew & Business: Fiddleheads Coffee + Tasting Ride
MT Chamber of YP
Mar 17, 2026
YP Power: Young Professionals & Community Engagement
Melinda Caughill
Mar 24, 2026
Aging Smart: Medicare Overview
Matt Joynt
Apr 07, 2026
State of Schools on Local Education
Ann Benish
Apr 14, 2026
Stronger Every Day: Staying Active at Home, Work, and Beyond
Janell Vera
Apr 21, 2026
Blooms & Sustainability: Earth Day Flower Farm Activity
Angie Wisniewski, MBA - Ascension
May 05, 2026
Mental Health Matters: Addressing a Global Issue with Local Impact
View entire list...
Meeting Responsibilities
If you cannot fulfill your responsibility, please make arrangements for someone else to take your place.
Greeter
November 11, 2025
Lak, Jr., Joseph
 
November 18, 2025
MacFarlane, Ellen
 
Pledge
November 11, 2025
Landisch-Hansen, Colleen
 
November 18, 2025
Mader, Heather
 
Prayer/Inspiration
November 11, 2025
Lysaught, James
 
November 18, 2025
Marshall, James
 
Club Executives & Directors
President
James Counsellor
President Elect
Angelica Niemann
Past President
Tyler Briggs
Executive Secretary / Director
Shelley Weston
Secretary
Kathleen Schneider
Treasurer
Shelley Weston
Club Service
Heather Mader
Community Service
Robert Kos
International Service
Ellen MacFarlane
Vocational Service
Barbara Thompson
Public Relations
Rachel Muchin Young
The Rotary Foundation
Samuel Azinger
Veteran's Affairs
Donald McLean

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