After our recent feasibility study presentation, Stan Smith suggested that there might be some club members who would like make a year-end contribution to the playground. If you would like to do this, you can provide a check to Jenne in person no later than December 17. You can also send a check by mail to:
Thiensville-Mequon Rotary Foundation, Inc.
All-User Park Fund PO Box 73
Mequon, WI 53092
Checks should be made out to the Thiensville-Mequon Rotary Foundation Inc., All-User Park Fund.
If you are interested in donating by making a Qualified Charitable Distribution from an IRA, you should talk to your financial advisor to request the distribution directly from your IRA to the Thiensville Mequon Rotary Foundation, Inc. The Thiensville Mequon Rotary Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3), Tax ID 39-1612508.
Maureen O'Leary-Guth was recognized for excellence by the Wisconsin Law Journal, Legal All-star Awards. She was granted an award for Women in the Law. Congratulations Maureen!
While the United States is well-known for its Thanksgiving festivities, many cultures around the world celebrate their own harvest festivals.
Canada: Just a bit earlier than the U.S., Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving on the second Monday of October. Much like the American tradition, it involves feasting, family gatherings, and giving thanks for the harvest.
Germany: Erntedankfest, or Harvest Festival, is a German tradition that celebrates the autumn harvest. People decorate churches with fruits, vegetables, and flowers, and there are often parades and festivals to mark the occasion.
Korea: Chuseok is a major Korean holiday that celebrates the harvest moon. Families gather to pay respects to their ancestors and enjoy traditional foods like songpyeon (rice cakes) and hangwa (traditional Korean sweets).
India: Pongal is a Hindu festival celebrated in South India. It's a harvest festival that marks the beginning of the Tamil calendar. People decorate their homes with colorful kolam (rangoli) patterns and offer prayers to the Sun God.
Cynthia “Cindy” Bentley is the executive director of People First Wisconsin and a fearless advocate for people with disabilities. She is a survivor who endured institutionalization at Southern Wisconsin Center to go on to become a leader in Wisconsin. Cindy leads other self-advocates across the state of Wisconsin in making our communities more accessible. She is passionate about voting rights, long-term care, housing, community inclusion, mental health, employment, sexual violence prevention, and accessible transportation.
Cindy serves on several boards and works closely with other agencies/organizations that work for equal opportunities for people with disabilities. These include: The Governor’s Committee for People with Disabilities Member and co-chair of its Opportunities and access Sub-Committee, Milwaukee County’s Combined Community Services Board (CCSB) Board Member, Life Navigators Board Member, Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities (BPDD)-partner agent, The Survival Coalition of Disability Organizations, The Wisconsin Disability Vote Coalition Partner, Shirley Ryan Abilities Lab-Home and Community Participant Council Member and on the IDD-MH System Improvement Initiative: Community of Practice Steering Committee. Cindy is a decorated Special Olympics athlete who has served on the Wisconsin Special Olympics Board and traveled the world as a Global Messenger.
Cindy has spoken at the local, state, and national levels on the following topics: sexual violence prevention, self-direction, plain language, employment, and Home and Community-Based Services. She has also worked to stop seclusion and restraint and to close institutions. She has testified to Congress on guardianship and supported decision-making.
Cindy is a co-author of a biography about her life called, Cindy Bentley: Spirit of a Champion. She is currently working on another book about her life.
June 1, 2024 marked 40 years of Cindy living in the community. Cindy shares her story in the video,“Choose the Pond.” In recognition of this important milestone, Governor Tony Evers sent a letter and a video message, State Representative Darrin Madison presented a proclamation in her honor by the Wisconsin State Assembly at her anniversary celebration, and the City of Milwaukee also honored her with a Cindy Bentley Day proclamation. More information and links can be found on the People First Wisconsin website: here.
Hi! My name is Kevin Szydel, and I have been a coach with Special Olympics for over 40 years. I am the co-agency manager for North Suburban Special Olympics. North Suburban Special Olympics has won agency of the year three times. I have over 100 athletes in twelve sports. I have coached at the local, state, national, and world games. Some of the places I have coached at are Ireland, Washington, Florida, Iowa, and North Carolina. Coaching and volunteering for Special Olympics is extremely rewarding and a lot of fun. It is rewarding when my athletes achieve their goals, and they learn how to work together as a team.
MKE Urban Stables provides equine-assisted services and programs to youth and veterans
With the construction complete in May 2020, we became the first facility in the nation to combine equine-assisted therapy, community engagement programs, and mounted police patrol with a total of 24 horse stalls, indoor and outdoor riding arenas, classrooms, multi-purpose community room, and plenty of parking.
Congratulations to the Mequon Thiensville Community Foundation - 25 years of giving. We are grateful to have been included. We thank you for all you do to make Mequon and Thiensville so wonderful!
On Sunday, Aug. 1, Navy fighter pilot, Lt. Jeff McLean, and his wife, Air Force tanker pilot, Capt. Christine McLean took a bite out of the Big Apple and told NBC's Today that inter-service romance can thrive even in a war zone. The couple, graduates of the Naval Academy and Air Force Academy, married in 2009 and soon after the "I do's" were said separated for long deployments to the Middle East.
Lt. McLean, an F-18 Hornet pilot, had hoped that his many missions over Afghanistan might result in hearing his wife's voice across the radio frequencies during his many months in-theater, but it wasn't until his very last flight over Helmand Province that his wish was granted.
While it was all business at first, the two were able to share a moment at 20,000 feet when Jeff's fighter flew alongside the window of Christine's KC-135R Stratotanker. For a short moment she turned on the cabin lights and waved.
This is the stuff that fairy tales and romance novels are made of, and obviously NBC agreed.
For weeks prior to the couple's return stateside, producers from the popular morning news program called the 916th Air Refueling Wing to arrange for the pair to be on the show. Christine is a pilot with the 911th Air Refueling Squadron, the first active associate tanker squadron in the U.S. Air Force.
The couple was excited to tell their story, but probably more excited to see each other when they both arrived to the U.S. just a few days before the interview.
Lester Holt, weekend anchor for Today, interviewed the couple about how hard it was to not see each other for so long, what it was like to hear each other's voices on the radios and how hard it was to make something like this happen.
"The stars aligned," said Capt. McLean. She explained that because of the high operations tempo in the area there was never a guarantee that a certain tanker would refuel a certain fighter. It was all fate.
On Wednesday, we celebrated at the Rotary District 6270 Foundation Dinner. Former District Governor Karl Hertz and Ellen MacFarlane were recognized for their generous donations to the Rotary Foundation. We thank Sam Azinger for heading the Club's donations to the End Polio Now campaign. And our friend Bob Blazich from the Sunrise Club received the 2024 Rotary Agent of Peace Award. Congratulations to all!
Please help make the holidays a little brighter for kids and families and instill the spirit of giving within the community. We are welcoming all businesses, schools, neighborhoods, clubs and sports teams to get involved and become a toy collection location or participate as a volunteer.
Maureen L. O'Leary-Guth, President and Owner of O'Leary-Guth Law Office, S.C., has been selected as December’s featured Rotarian. Maureen's dedication to community service and her exceptional contributions to the legal profession make her an invaluable asset to our club. (Maureen served as our Club’s President in 2022-2023.)
O'Leary-Guth Law Office, S.C was founded in 1990. Maureen specializes in high-net-worth estate planning, complex tax planning, and business succession planning. Maureen oversees all aspects of the firm's operations and serves as an expert witness in trust litigation.
A lifelong Wisconsin local, Maureen grew up in Brookfield, Wisconsin, earned her undergraduate degree from Carroll College/Carroll University (started college at age 16), and graduated with honors from Marquette University Law School. Following law school, Maureen started her career in 2008 and finished purchasing the firm in 2018. In 2022 they purchased a much larger office building and moved the law firm from Thiensville to the east side of Mequon. The firm currently has about 16 employees.
T. Samuel Azinger, an active TM Rotarian, joined her firm as an attorney in 2017. His practice includes Estate Planning, Real Estate, Estate and Trust Administration, Retirement Benefits Planning, Charitable Giving, and Elder Law and Special Needs matters, including Title XIX Planning, Special Needs Trusts, and Long-Term Care planning. (Sam served as our Club’s President in 2020-2021.)
Maureen and her husband, Jeremy Guth (married for 15 years), reside in Glendale with their two daughters, Jax (9) and Mads (6). Being “mom” is her favorite hat that she wears. Their family enjoys traveling, and their most recent adventures included Ireland and Germany!
Jeremy is also a Rotarian (a member of the Rotary Club of Milwaukee), and an Attorney at O’Leary-Guth Law Office, S.C. focusing on business and real estate.
Maureen's interest in law and business began at Swimtastic, where she worked as a shareholder and Operations Manager as a young adult. This experience not only ignited her love for helping others but also provided beneficial insights into business and law, solidifying her desire to attend law school.
We are proud to have Maureen as a Rotarian. Her expertise, leadership, and commitment to making a positive impact (personally and professionally) in our community is inspiring.
Fun Fact:
They have an adorable schnoodle (Claire) as their family dog. When Claire isn’t playing with her doggy friends at Mequon’s PETU, Claire “works” at the office part-time napping in meetings and taking advantage of anyone who will pet her.
Common estate planning questions:
If I have a will, do I still need a trust? Often yes, as wills do not avoid probate. There are also additional benefits to a trust.
How often should I review my estate plan? She recommends that you read it every 5 years and/or whenever there is a significant change from a life event.
Dr. Bruce Rowe gave an inspiring presentation at the Frank L. Weyenberg Library on Saturday, October 26. He shared passages from his book entitled "Everything Under the Sun." You can purchase the book directly from Bruce or click here to purchase on Amazon.
"I've worked and lived in Milwaukee since 2011 and have grown to love the city more and more. I am the Volunteer and Training Associate at Kinship and spend most of my time sharing about Kinship's mission in the community and coordinating the volunteer experience at our Urban Farm and Food Center. I live less than a block away from the Food Center in the Riverwest Neighborhood so the community I work with is also the community I live with day to day. My work is a personal calling to link arms with my neighbors to build a better neighborhood and city where all can prosper." -Travis Sternhagen
Tis the season for giving, and it's never too early to start your Christmas shopping! Join us in celebrating the one-year anniversary of Jim Marshall's book, "The American Tailwind." This inspiring work explores the pursuit of the American dream and features stories of 60 soldiers connected to our team. As a TM Rotarian, Jim's dedication to service and community is evident in his writing. Let's show our support for Jim and his book by spreading the word and perhaps picking up a copy for a loved one this holiday season.
“When people see me walking with my crutches and braces, if I’m not wearing shorts, they do not think of polio,” says Ferris, who contracted the disease at six months old. “But when people see my legs, they’re like, ‘Oh, what happened?’ It starts a discussion around what people can do to work together for a polio-free world.”
Ferris tries to wear shorts whenever he’s hiking or using his hand-cycle, a three-wheeled device powered by hand cranks. And he’s found other ways to channel his athleticism into the fight against polio. In 2008, he hand-cycled 7,140 kilometers (4,437 miles) across Canada to raise awareness and funds for polio eradication.
Using a 27-speed hand-cycle and consuming 5,000 calories a day to maintain his energy, Ferris traveled 400 kilometers (249 miles) every 10 days from British Columbia in the west to Newfoundland in the east. His Cycle to Walk trip raised funds for Rotary International’s End Polio Now effort and other anti-polio projects.
Now Ferris has joined Team End Polio, a new campaign by the Global Polio Eradication Initiative to raise awareness about the need to wipe out the disease. Team End Polio’s starting roster of top international athletes includes several who, like Ferris, have been directly affected by the disease. All are determined to speak up on social media and at sporting events.
You're invite to a Frank L. Weyenberg Library presentation!
Event Description
There’s more we have in common than that which divides us. Join us for frank discussions of world events, and those here at home, and how we can make a difference. Speaker is James Counsellor, Retired Marine, Vietnam Veteran, Director of Veteran Affairs Committee of the Thiensville-Mequon Rotary Club.
I have now been a member of Rotary for almost 25 years. I originally joined the TM Rotary Club as a Corporate Sponsored employee of the WI Energy Corporation (WEC). At that time, I was a community customer contact representative. I worked with both elected and administrative officials in the northern area of Milw; Ozaukee and Washington Counties.
Our Clubs membership since its inception in 1937 not only includes a number of caring community business leaders and managers but also the City of Mequon Mayor, Village of Thiensville President as well as the Superintendent of Schools. They are all dedicated community stewards who believe in the Rotary mission to make a positive difference in our communities in keeping with the four way test.
In addition, I have always been proud to be associated with an accomplished group of principled professionals; their people of good character, integrity and their law-abiding community representatives! We are all members of an international family dedicated to helping others!
“Friendships are one of the many payoffs from being a Rotarian as we work together for common goals of Service Above Self. True friendships are where you genuinely care for each other’s well-being, share experiences, and support one another through ups and downs. It’s a safe space to be yourself without fear of judgment and a testament to mutual trust and respect. Lifelong friendships are common through our TM Rotary Club.”
For the 16th consecutive year, The Rotary Foundation has received the highest rating — four stars — from Charity Navigator, an independent evaluator of charities in the U.S.
The Foundation earned the recognition for adhering to sector best practices and executing its mission in a financially efficient way, demonstrating both strong financial health and commitment to accountability and transparency.
“We are delighted to provide the Rotary Foundation with third-party accreditation that validates their operational excellence,” said Michael Thatcher, president and CEO of Charity Navigator. “The Four-Star Rating is the highest possible rating an organization can achieve. We are eager to see the good work that the Rotary Foundation is able to accomplish in the years ahead.”
Charity Navigator analyzes nonprofit performance based on four key indicators, referred to as beacons. Currently, nonprofits can earn scores for the impact and results, accountability and finance, culture and communities, and leadership and adaptability.
Charity Navigator is the largest and most utilized independent charity evaluator in the U.S. Since 2001, the organization has been an unbiased and trusted source of information for more than 11 million donors annually.
At Tuesday's Common Council Meeting, Mayor Nerbun proclaimed October 20 through 26, 2024, as Friends of Libraries Week in the City of Mequon and encourages all community members to recognize the accomplishments of The Friends of Weyenberg Library and their continued pursuit of making Weyenberg Library innovative and a premier destination of learning. Pictured above (L) to (R) are Library Director Rachel Muchin Young, Friends' Directors Mimi Rosing and Nancy Urbani, and Mayor Nerbun.
Mequon Smile Design has the honor of participating in Freedom Day for the 6th year in a row and we would love to invite you to get involved in such an amazing national movement with us.
Freedom Day USA is a day where businesses across our nation will join to show their appreciation to the members of our armed services, their immediate families, and our Veterans, by providing a Day of Free. It is our opportunity as community members to give back, say Thank You, and show our gratitude for our service members’ sacrifices. This year’s celebration will be held on November 14th , 2024.
As a member of our community, we’d love to invite you to join us! Please consider helping us with a product donation or service from your business. All donations are greatly appreciated. Your donation can be something as simple as a gift certificate to your business, a night on the town, or a weekend at your favorite resort. A donation form for the silent auction items is attached. Simply fill it out, then call or email us and we’ll handle everything.
Additionally, I am glad to provide additional information about this national event. Please feel free to contact me at office@mequonsmiledesign.com or 262-240-9400.
Thanks in advance for your support in ensuring this exceptional event day is a success!
Rachel Bellmer serves as the Senior Director of Member Engagement at the Milwaukee Art Museum, where she has been on staff since 2010. She is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee, where she holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication. Rachel is passionate about connecting people with the powerful benefits of art and loves that she gets to work so closely with some of the Museum’s biggest advocates: its Members!
Joining the Milwaukee Art Museum in February of 2024, Anne Temple develops and supports corporate partnerships including Business Circle Membership and Sponsorship. The role supports Museum exhibitions, events, and learning and engagement programming to enrich the community, sustain the institutions place in our region’s arts and cultural landscape, and its vitality for future generations.
Ms. Temple’s career spans corporate, small business, and nonprofit business development and marketing. She received her bachelor’s degree in art and English from the University of Wisconsin – Madison in 2000 and continued her education for business and grant writing. She serves as a UPAF Chorus Line lead, is a South Shore Farmers Market director, and became a certified yoga instructor in 2023.
About the Milwaukee Art Museum
The Milwaukee Art Museum is an essential destination for art and architecture and a vital cultural resource that connects visitors to dynamic art experiences and one another. Housed in iconic buildings by Santiago Calatrava, Eero Saarinen, and David Kahler on a 24-acre lakefront campus, the Museum is Wisconsin’s largest art institution and home to both broad and deep collections, with exceptional holdings in American painting, sculpture, and decorative arts; conceptual and minimalist art; prints and drawings; European art from the Renaissance through the nineteenth century; photography and new media; modern and contemporary design; folk and self-taught art; and twentieth-century Haitian art. A bold symbol of Milwaukee’s ambition and forward-thinking vision, the Museum is a place for community building, education, and celebration that fosters creativity, free speech, and critical discourse for audiences of all ages and backgrounds. For more information, visit mam.org.
For almost four decades, Dorothy and Don Harms tethered their lives to the needs of their dairy cows. Twice daily milking. Seasonal races to plant and harvest corn and alfalfa for feed. The fourth generation in his family to run the Reedsburg, Wisconsin, dairy farm, Don Harms knew each of their 130 cows by name. For many people who work in agriculture, Dorothy Harms says, farming is part of their identity. “It’s not their job,” she says. “It’s who they are.”
But the grueling schedule took a toll, so they gradually transitioned, launching a farm-stay tourism business, switching to beef cattle, and selling off their dairy herd little by little until they parted with the last 25 cows five years ago. In the weeks that followed, the couple grieved. Dorothy Harms’ body, so used to hard but rewarding work, yearned to...
Read Full Article: https://www.rotary.org/en/seeds-hope-farmers-mental-health
Please join us as we celebrate our 32nd year helping incarcerated adults build skills and tools for successful futures. Our annual Keys to Opportunity Event raises funds to fulfill our mission as the only privately funded program in the State of Wisconsin.
Date: October 26, 2024
Location: Cedarburg Cultural Center - W64 N546 Washington Avenue
4:30 – 7:30 pm
Socialize Heavy appetizers
Silent auction
Wine pull
Raffles
5:00 – 7:00 pm
Musical entertainment Gary Haseley
6:00 pm
Program emceed by board member, Angelica Niemann
6:30 pm
Silent auction closes
Winning bids announced
TICKETS ARE ON SALE: www.ozaukeejailliteracy.org
$50 per ticket
$60 at the door
Tickets are also available at all branches of Port Washington State Bank
Rick Czaplewski is the author of the award-winning book, Better Dirty Than Done.
Rick is a 2-time, cancer survivor and has lived 28 years since he was pronounced cancer free in 1996. He comes from Milwaukee is the son of a US Air Force veteran and a nurse. He is a graduate of both the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire and the University of Wisconsin – Madison. He enjoys rooting for the Wisconsin Badgers with his son, Lance, in his spare time.
As a professional, Rick is a CPA, PMP, and MBA. He has worked for KPMG, HP, Siemens, and Xylem.
He runs his own consulting firm, No One Walks Alone. Rick works with organizations who want to improve their financial and schedule outcomes by teaching them best-in-class negotiation skills.
As a member of the NSA – Wisconsin Chapter, Rick is available for keynote speeches to organizations and companies as well as corporate training sessions.
Did you know that Karl Hertz is the only member that served as District Governor in our clubs 85+ years?
Term: 1996-1997
What do you love about Rotary?
“Making it our own” - the diverse nature of clubs; that is a story I love to tell.
What was your favorite thing about serving as District Governor?
Learning more about the variety of Rotary clubs and what RI does in the
world.
What surprised you the most about your term in office?
The kindness and support of so many
What advice would you give someone considering to be more involved with leadership?
Yes, it is a time commitment, but it is entirely worth it.
"My Rotary adventure started over 50 years ago with the Indianapolis club which had hundreds of people at the time. Then, as new positions moved us, I experienced a start-up club, a long-established club of about 100 members that sang every week, and for the last 40 years, T-M Rotary has been a very special experience. Rotary has been a vehicle to new friends as well as wonderful opportunities. The club offices, the local projects, the international projects, and being district governor. All of these opportunities allowed me to experience situations which I never dreamed of as a kid. Being in four clubs and visiting over 50 clubs here in district 6270 taught me that Rotary comes in many different forms with women and men of diverse countries, cultures, and needs. What an adventure it has been!"
The first answering machine was created by Joseph Zimmerman, a Milwaukee native, who had the idea for the invention after he spoke with an air conditioning and heating specialist who told him he did not want to leave his office because he had no secretary to take his phone calls.
John and Mimi Rosing have lived at 512 Alta Loma Drive in Thiensville for 30 years, raising four children who all attended Mequon-Thiensville School District schools.
42-year career in Hospital Administration and Nation-wide Consulting Practice focused on improving Acute Care Hospital Quality of Care, Safety, and Accreditation Status.
30-year parishioners of Lumen Christi Catholic Church
30-year member of the Thiensville-Mequon Rotary Club
Participant or volunteer in numerous Village and community events over 30 years
A pebble cast into a pond causes ripples that spread in all directions. As Rotarians, we lead by example. We love highlighting our family members that also demonstrate the values of Rotary.
Dr. Rachel Poulsen with her husband Dr. Michael Poulsen. Rachel has been a practicing dentist for 15 years. She owns her practice in Mishawaka, Indiana.
2 weeks ago, Rachel was inducted into the International College of Dentists. This is a prestigious process where 2 members must nominate you for membership with the membership approving after reviewing the persons credentials and demonstrating the act of serving others. Less than 3% of the dentists in America are members. The moto of the organization is “Integrity/Leadership/Service”.
Awarded to Rotary Club of Thiensville-Mequon in recognition of their outstanding dedication and commitment to Rotary's core values and mission during the 2023/2024 Rotary Year.
Pete Bosch from the Rotary Club of Waukesha serves as the District Governor for the 2024-2025 Rotary year.
Pete has held a number of roles within his club and the District, most recently as Rotary Club of Waukesha President 2019-2020, Assistant District Governor for Area M (Hartland-Lake Country, Waukesha, and Waukesha Sunrise), and as a member of the District Technology Committee.
This week was the third session of the Ozaukee Business Leaders Series which helped guests improve their marketing skills.
Tim Vertz, founder & CEO of Vertz Marketing led the workshop focused on "Internet Marketing" where many local marketing professionals and business owners attended.
Main Focus:
Logistics of advertising on Internet Search Engines
How Search Engine Optimization can improve your web traffic
Thank you to those that supported Taste of Mequon 2024. A very special thanks to our Rotary family volunteers - Jean Custer, Andy Nerbun, Drew Nerbun, Dick Nerbun, and Janet Wirth. Serving on the Mequon Festivals Committee are Jenne Hohn, Vanessa Nerbun, and Christine McClean.
The Guth family is pictured with foreign exchange students Pia and Freida.
If you would like to send thank you notes to our local Heroes, please give them to Angelica Niemann or drop them off at Spectrum Investment Advisors by October 1st.
"Heroes aren't just people who wear capes; they're the everyday folks who make a difference in their communities."
The War Memorial Center 9/11 Memorial honors the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives as a result of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and a third planned attack on Washington, D.C. The WMC 9/11 Memorial pays special tribute to the 343 firefighters, police officers and other first responders who died during the attacks, and U.S. military members who have been killed in the ensuing wars on terrorism.
In 2011, after a lengthy application process initiated by the War Memorial Center Board of Directors, the War Memorial Center was granted this piece of “9/11 steel” and K2011, then War Memorial Board Member and Vietnam veteran Joe Campbell and retired Milwaukee Fire Battalion Chief Mark Fox drove to New York City to pick up the steel beam. On their way back to Milwaukee, they were met at the Wisconsin border by hundreds of Patriot Guard motorcycle riders, and area firefighters flew flags from their trucks and saluted from overpasses. The piece of steel was installed at the War Memorial Center and dedicated on September 11, 2011, the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.
“[This memorial] represents what freedom is all about. It is not free,” said Campbell. “We have to defend it. We have to preserve it and obviously, unfortunately, we have to fight for it.”
Indulge in a healthy treat over the holiday weekend! These protein-packed frozen bites are easy to make and will be enjoyed by the whole family. Whether you plan to have one last splash up north or a relaxing staycation at home, this is a “must-try” recipe. Mix and match different flavor combinations.
Personal favorites:
Dark chocolate chips + Door County cherries
Almond butter + Sea salt + Crushed pretzels
Raspberries + White chocolate drizzle + Pistachios
The Friends of the Jonathan Clark House organization is proud to be a vibrant cultural asset and educational resource in our community. The strong support from the Rotary Foundation has been evident since we started in 2012.
We are reaching out to you as we develop our Board of Directors for January 2025. We will be electing up to five new board members at our January 8, annual meeting. Could you recommend someone from the Foundation leadership whom you think would be a good match for our historic preservation and education missions and would serve on our Board of Directors? We are also looking for community members who would like to contribute to one of our committees. Our goal is to increase community involvement in the Friends of the Jonathan Clark House as we look to the next generation of leaders.
You can refer to the enclosed list of board member expectations as you consider individuals that best fit our organization. We would be pleased to send you additional information and to meet with you to answer your questions. We look forward to hearing from you by October 1.
The Rotary International website, rotary.org, offers a variety of resources, including district roles, membership, fundraising, projects, awards, public relations, Rotaract, Interact, magazines, press center, and social media. Check it out!
Get Moving: Many volunteer opportunities involve physical activity, like gardening at a community center or building houses with Habitat for Humanity. This can help you stay active and improve cardiovascular health.
Stress Less, Live Longer: Studies have shown that volunteering can reduce stress levels and lower blood pressure. Reduced stress can lead to a stronger immune system and a decreased risk of chronic illnesses.
Staying Social, Staying Healthy: Volunteering connects you with others, combating feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Mental and Emotional Wellness:
Happiness Boost: Volunteering is a proven mood-lifter. Helping others releases endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals. This can combat feelings of depression and anxiety, leaving you feeling happier and more fulfilled.
Increased Purpose: Volunteering gives you a sense of purpose and meaning in life. Knowing you're contributing to a worthy cause can boost your self-esteem and confidence.
Cognitive Boost: Volunteering can keep your mind sharp! Activities that require learning new skills or problem-solving can help improve cognitive function and memory.
Overall, volunteering is a win-win situation. You contribute to a cause you care about while reaping incredible health benefits for your body and mind.
The Toilet Paper Throne: Believe it or not, Green Bay is the self-proclaimed "Toilet Paper Capital of the World," home to a major Kimberly-Clark paper production facility.
Ever poured your heart into a recipe, only to end up with a culinary catastrophe? Fear not, fellow food enthusiasts/Rotarians! The skills you use to navigate the kitchen mirror the magic of successful volunteering.
Preparation is Key: In both cooking and volunteering, gathering the right ingredients (knowledge, resources) is crucial. Research the organization, understand their needs, and come prepared to offer your unique skillset.
Follow the Recipe, But Improvise: Recipes provide a roadmap, but sometimes adjustments are necessary. Volunteering is similar - be adaptable! Unexpected situations may arise, requiring flexibility and a willingness to think on your feet.
“Spice It Up”: Just like adding a sprinkle of creativity to a dish elevates its flavor, your unique perspective can enhance a volunteer project. Don't be afraid to suggest new ideas and collaborate with others.
The Proof is in the Pudding: The true test of a successful recipe is the satisfied smiles around the table. Volunteering offers the same reward – seeing your efforts make a real difference in your community.
So, channel your inner culinary adventurer and volunteer today! You might just discover the perfect recipe for a more fulfilling and impactful life.
Our club has been nominated for Nonprofit of the Year and Jenne Hohn has been nominated for Volunteer of the Year for the 2024 Ozaukee Impact Awards through the Ozaukee Nonprofit Center! The Ozaukee Impact Awards seek to recognize local change-makers and the impact they had on the community over the past year. Winners in each category will be announced at the Awards Luncheon and Ceremony that will take place on Thursday, August 15th, from 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm at the Ozaukee Nonprofit Center. For tickets, click here.
Congratulations to Russell Witte-Dycus, recipient of his Paul Harris Plus Three!
The presentation of a Paul Harris Fellow recognition is The Rotary Foundation’s way of expressing its appreciation for a substantial contribution to its humanitarian and educational programs. The recognition is named after Rotary’s founder, the late Paul Harris, a Chicago lawyer, who started Rotary with three business associates in 1905. A world of goodwill and better understanding comes closer to reality today because Russ has made a substantial gift to The Rotary Foundation and a Paul Harris Fellow recognition may be presented. In being named a Paul Harris Fellow, he joins a remarkable company of people throughout the world, all recognized for their commitment to Service Above Self to benefit local and international communities.
We congratulate you Russ, and thank you for your commitment to Rotary’s common goals of world understanding and peace.
Congratulations to Herb for organizing the 38th year of participating in Family Fun Before the 4th. Thank you to all that participated. Peterson has become a master of corn roasting.
Today we celebrated three Paul Harris Award recipients! Congratulations to Nancy Witte-Dycus, Roger Kirgues, and Sean Bailey.
PAUL HARRIS FELLOW RECOGNITION Rotarians associate the naming of a Paul Harris Fellow as a tribute to a person who has demonstrated a shared purpose and support for the educational and humanitarian objectives of The Rotary Foundation. The recognition is named after Rotary’s founder, the late Paul Harris, a Chicago lawyer, who started Rotary with three business associates in 1905. A world of goodwill and better understanding comes closer to reality today because Nancy, Roger, and Sean have made a substantial donation to The Rotary Foundation and can be named as Paul Harris Fellows.
Becoming a Paul Harris Fellow is a tremendous accomplishment and honor. So much good begins with these gifts which are vital to the children, families, and communities who benefit. Only when people’s basic needs are met, can they pursue the larger elements of human life including conflict resolution, community building, and peace. Paul Harris Fellows, in a very tangible way, provide steppingstones to a more harmonious world.
Nancy, Roger, and Sean have repeatedly gone above and beyond in “doing good in the world.” We thank you for using your time, talent, and treasure to enhance the lives of others. Your generosity means so much to so many. On behalf of the club, we thank you and welcome you to receive your new Paul Harris pins. Please wear the pin with pride in honor of all the lives that you will reach through your generosity. We thank you for continuing to put “Service above Self.”
The POTC event made the front page of the News Graphic yesterday too. See the article and the actual newsprint pictures of the article attached. This will be out on the website today as well.
Thanks for making our foundation the success and impact it is!
On Tuesday, June 11 we welcomed new member Dr. Barbara Thompson.
Dr. Barbara Thompson is a retired school district Superintendent. She has two adult children. Barbara enjoys traveling and mentoring at-risk youth. She will be joining the Veteran Affairs Committee.
Welcome Barbara! We are delighted to have you as a part of the Thiensville-Mequon Rotary family!
Jeramey Jannene is passionate about building a better Milwaukee.
Jannene founded Urban Milwaukee in 2008 with business partner Dave Reid. In addition to overseeing the business side of the publication, he covers real estate and city government.
His reporting involves traveling to all corners of Milwaukee and City Hall to track down tips, attend meetings and dig up public records.
He is a member of the Rotary Club of Milwaukee. In his free time, Jannene enjoys spending time with his wife, Alison, and daughter. He is an avid bicyclist and runner on a decade-long quest to traverse every street in the city.
Reminder - we do not have Rotary this week (Tuesday, June 4).
For those that registered, we will see you at the Pillars of the Community Luncheon honoring Rotarian Connie Pukaite on Tuesday, June 4 at North Shore Country Club.
The Pillars of the Community luncheon is sold out. If you registered via Shelley and cannot attend, please let her know ASAP.
If you would like to donate to Connie's initiative, click here.
Our official Ozaukee Rotarians team for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s on September 28 at Veterans Park in Port Washington is now online and ready to join! Thanks in advance!
Rotary Friends,
It's time to rally the troops for an epic mission - the Walk to End Alzheimer's!
As you may know, Alzheimer's disease has impacted countless families, including many in our own community. This cruel condition robs individuals of their memories, their independence, and ultimately, their identity.
That's why, as the incoming MT Sunrise president, I've chosen Brain Health and Alzheimer's Awareness as our rallying cry for the year. And our first mission? The Walk to End Alzheimer's. This year’s walk is taking place on September 28th at Veterans’ Park in Port Washington.
Imagine the sense of hope we could bring to those affected by this devastating disease, simply by showing up and walking together as one unified force. That's the power we hold, and it starts by joining our Ozaukee Rotarians team: http://act.alz.org/goto/ozaukeerotarians .
This is no ordinary team - it's a county-wide force to be reckoned with, uniting all Rotary Clubs in Ozaukee for a common cause.
And our goal? A whopping $10,000 in fundraising! It's an ambitious target, but with our collective might from clubs all over the county, I know we can crush it. So sign up today, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready to spread the word far and wide. Share our page, rally your friends and family to donate, and let's show the world why Rotarians are called “People of Action!”
But the excitement doesn't stop there! We'll also need a dedicated crew of volunteers to ensure the Walk Day runs smoothly. I’ll be reaching out with more information on that later.
And if all this were not enough reason to join, did you know that Rotary is a National Team for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s? We will be part of a nationwide alliance with our Ozaukee team.
Rotarians, this is our chance to make a real difference in the lives of those touched by Alzheimer's. To show them that they're not alone, that we stand with them, and that we'll never stop fighting until we've found a cure.
Let's do this, Ozaukee Rotarians! For brain health, for Alzheimer's awareness, and because we are Rotarians!
Jim and Jenny Counsellor are also in Europe. Jim is seeing signs of Rotary everywhere. Pictured is a monument in Valleta Malta. His stops have included: Rome, Malta, Naples, Pompeii, Amalfi Coast, 2 stops in Bulgaria and London before heading home. He is photographed with Jenny at the most beautiful cathedral he has ever seen.
Back home in America's Dairyland, Jenne attended Mollie B's Polka Party with Berlin Rotary President Kyle Camp.
Dr. Kurpad received his MD from Bangalore Medical College, Bangalore, India in 1991, and his PhD from Duke University (Durham, NC) in 1995. He completed an internship in general surgery at University Hospitals of Cleveland, Case Western Reserve University, in 1996, and a residency in neurosurgery at that same institution in 2001. Dr. Kurpad completed three clinical fellowships as follows: July-December 1998, Skull Base Surgery, University of Tennessee (Memphis); July-December 2000, Neuro-Oncology, University Hospitals of Cleveland; and January-June 2001, Spinal Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin.
Dr. Kurpad has held appointments as Guest Scientist, Intramural Program, National Institute of Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health in July 2001; Guest Scientist, Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden, from August 2001-June 2002; and Invited Guest Faculty, University of Toronto School of Medicine, 2014. He was honored in 2015 by the University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine with the Distinguished E. Harry Botterell Professorship in Neurosurgery.
Dr. Kurpad joined the faculty of MCW as Assistant Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, in January 2002. He was promoted to Associate Professor in 2007 and achieved the rank of Professor with Tenure in 2014. Dr. Kurpad has served as Adjunct Faculty in the Departments of Neuroscience and Speech Pathology and Audiology at Marquette University since 2005, and as Adjunct Professor in MCW’s Department of Cell Biology, Neurology and Anatomy since 2007.
Dr. Kurpad specializes in the treatment of both spinal and cranial disorders. His clinical expertise lies in surgery for spinal trauma, tumors of the spine and spinal cord, degenerative disease of the spine, spinal deformities, skull base tumors, general neurosurgery, and minimally invasive methods for the treatment of spinal disorders. From 2002-2015, Dr. Kurpad served as Chief, Neurosurgery Service at the Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center and has been listed in Best Doctors in America since 2007. He is board certified with the American Board of Neurological Surgery.
Dr. Kurpad has extensive research experience in spinal cord injury and is internationally recognized in the field of imaging biomarkers for spinal cord injury and cervical myelopathy. As the recipient of the prestigious Van Wagenen fellowship from the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, Dr. Kurpad conducted cellular transplantation research for spinal cord injury at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm. He runs a laboratory at MCW with international collaborators for the study of spinal cord injury and has served as principal investigator on several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed grants. Dr. Kurpad has been continuously funded extramurally since 2006 and has secured nearly $6 million in total grant funding. He has previously had extramural funding from the VA, NIH, and private foundations for cell transplantation and imaging biomarker research for spinal cord injury totaling over $2 million. He played a key role in establishing a $1 million spinal cord injury endowment by the Bryon Riesch Paralysis Foundation at MCW. He has active current extramural funding from the VA Research Service, Rick Hansen Foundation, and Craig Nielsen Foundation totaling over an additional $1.7 million. He serves on the editorial boards of several journals and is a study section reviewer for the VA Research Service. In March 2012, Dr. Kurpad filed a patent for algorithm sequence for human spinal cord diffusion tensor imaging.
Dr. Kurpad is a member of the Executive Committee of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS) and the Joint AANS/CNS Section on Neurotrauma and Critical Care. He serves as the Chair of the International Division of the CNS and has been a member of the Executive Committee of this organization since 2011, holding a number of leadership roles for the past six years. He also is a fellow of the American Association for Neurological Surgeons; honorary life member of the Neurological Society of India; and member of the North American Skull Base Society, American Association for the Advancement of Science, Society for Neuroscience, and the American Association of South Asian Neurosurgeons.
Dr. Kurpad has significant medical student and graduate student teaching experience, and has mentored many medical students, PhD students, residents, and post-doctoral fellows.
Dr. Kurpad has published more than 140 articles, original papers, book chapters, and reviews, and has presented about 50 local, regional, national, and international lectures and workshops. His MCW committee memberships include the Clinical Competency Committee (Department of Neurosurgery), Practice Services and Operations Committee, Trauma Committee, Inpatient Advisory Council, Steering Committee for the Neuroscience Service Line (Froedtert Hospital), MCW/MCP Compensation Committee, Stem Cell Committee, Neuroscience Center Board, and the Institutional Financial Advisory Committee (MCW).
For more than 20 years, Omar Shaikh has been one of Milwaukee’s leading business owners and community leaders. Known for high standards and exceptional service in the hospitality business, Omar leads the modern and sophisticated award-winning steakhouse Carnevor. As a well-rounded restaurateur and business operator, Omar joined the team that redeveloped downtown Milwaukee’s iconic Grand Avenue property and spearheaded the efforts of opening the 3rd St. Market Hall, which has brought energy and activity to an area of the mall and the city that was dormant for years. The food hall has become the place to be with creative restaurant operators, fun activities and an energy that draws in residents from throughout southeastern Wisconsin.
Omar remains committed to helping revitalize the historic downtown landmark with a strong focus on transformation and creating new experiences west of the Milwaukee River. Outside of hospitality and development, he is also a partner in O & B Consulting, and Tuk Tuk Chicago, a short-distance electric cab service. Omar Shaikh’s passion for moving Milwaukee forward can be seen through his extensive list of community involvement and his leadership in getting major projects accomplished.
He served as the Board Chair for VISIT Milwaukee for seven years and is one of the leading advocates for increasing tourism in southeastern Wisconsin. He is also a member of the Wisconsin Center District board of directors and was one of the community leaders who worked tirelessly with state and local officials to develop a financing mechanism to move forward the long-awaited $456 million expansion of the city’s convention center. The expansion will allow Milwaukee to compete against other major cities for conventions and meetings that will bring in millions of dollars for Milwaukee-area hotels, restaurants and retailers.
Omar was chairman of the Home Crew Coalition, a community group, which played a key role in 2023 in helping broker a bipartisan solution through state legislation signed by Gov. Tony Evers to ensure American Family Field has the resources it needs to remain one of the best ballparks in all of baseball and to keep major league baseball in Wisconsin through 2050.
In addition, Omar served on the host committee that worked directly in securing the 2024 Republican National Convention and is now working with business and community leaders to ensure the largest economic impact possible for southeastern Wisconsin businesses from the mega event, which will bring up to 50,000 visitors to Milwaukee in July 2024.
Omar is a strong collaborator with city, civic and business leadership across industries and is dedicated and passionate about connecting people and opportunities that support a prosperous, growing Milwaukee. He was recently named one of Milwaukee’s top 20 power brokers by the Milwaukee Business Journal. He strongly believes in giving back to the community and is chairman of the Milwaukee Kitchen Cabinet, which has put together the ‘Three Days of Christmas’ initiative for the past several years to provide holiday meals and gifts for non-profit groups as well as the Do Good with Food program that raised over $41,000 to benefit Children’s Wisconsin.
Omar and his wife, Connie, have been leaders in raising money for the area’s nonprofits and community groups, serving as co-chairs for several record-breaking fundraisers, including the Harry & Rose Sampson Jewish Community Center’s KidShare and Sharp Literacy’s ‘A Novel Event.’ When Omar & Connie aren’t fundraising, they open their home to rescued dogs and puppies and are passionate about securing safe and loving homes for dogs through a foster care program.
This World Immunization Week, we’re grateful to Rotary Foundation supporters like you who help keep communities healthy. We know that vaccines work. Rotary members around the world use them to fight vaccine-preventable diseases such as malaria, COVID-19, HPV, and hepatitis. And we have been using them successfully for decades in our work to end polio.
Rotary and our partners have reduced the number of polio cases worldwide by more than 99.9% since 1988, with Rotary clubs and members everywhere amplifying their efforts to create a polio-free world, one initiative at a time. The future of polio eradication is surveillance to detect the virus, and wastewater-based epidemiology will be a key tool in those monitoring efforts. Before we can celebrate the end of polio, we must remain vigilant and continue our work to immunize up to 400 million children each year.
The success Rotary members have achieved in preventing and treating disease would not be possible without our partners — or without donors like you, Ellen. During World Immunization Week, 24-30 April, you can support these efforts by:
With your support, we can continue to keep communities healthy and strong by preventing and treating diseases. Together, let’s continue the fight against disease this World Immunization Week.
The Common Council recently held its Annual Organizational Meeting on Tuesday, April 16, to swear-in newly elected members, elect a Common Council President and approve various subcommittee and aldermanic assignments for the 2024-2025 legislative year. The meeting also included a proclamation honoring Kathleen Schneider (pictured above with Mayor Nerbun) for her seven years of diligent service in representing District 7. During her tenure, she was an instrumental leader in countless initiatives, including helping the City navigate the effects of a worldwide pandemic and overseeing a significant expansion of the City’s sanitary sewer system. Dr. Schneider was also a strong supporter of the consolidation of the City’s Fire & EMS services with the Village of Thiensville that not only resulted in cost savings for local taxpayers, but also resulted in improved service delivery to the public. Thank you Alderwoman Schneider!
Thank you to Angelica Niemann for coordinating thank you notes to our Veterans on the Stars & Stripes Honor Flight, our speaker Amy Luft, and our time welcoming the flight. What an extraordinarily moving experience. Special thanks to friend of Rotary, Tammy Natale, who provided thank you notes from her Friendship Ministries program. We are deeply grateful to those who served. Thank you Veterans!
At the heart of Rotary's mission lies the pursuit of service and the commitment to fostering understanding and compassion within our communities. As we navigate the intricate tapestry of human experiences, we are reminded of the fragility of mental health and the profound impact it has on our lives.
At the 2023 Rotary International Assembly, RI President Gordon McInally courageously shared his journey, urging Rotary members worldwide to destigmatize conversations around mental health. His poignant narrative, punctuated by the loss of his brother to suicide, serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of open dialogue and support.
During my club visits, I shared my journey through mental health and wellness. There was a time when I, too, felt engulfed by despair, believing that suicide was the only escape from my struggles. Yet, through resilience and support, I emerged from the shadows, embracing a newfound sense of hope and purpose.
Recent statistics published by The New York Times shed light on the alarming rise in suicide rates across the United States. In the past 2 decades, suicide rates have risen about 35% with nearly 50,000 annually, while the rates in other wealthy countries have been dropping steeply and steadily. In the face of this sobering reality, Rotary members possess a unique opportunity to effect meaningful change. By fostering a culture of empathy and understanding, we can create safe spaces for individuals to share their struggles without fear of judgment.
As stewards of compassion and goodwill, we each play a vital role in Rotary's Mental Health and Wellness Initiative. Contrary to popular belief, one does not need to be a mental health professional to make a difference. Through simple acts of kindness and active listening, we can dismantle the barriers that prevent individuals from seeking help.
To support our collective efforts, Rotary International offers a comprehensive set of tools and resources aimed at raising awareness and promoting access to mental health care. I encourage you to explore the downloadable brochure provided, which outlines actionable steps for eliminating stigma and fostering resilience within our communities.
Additionally, I invite you to engage with the Rotary Action Group on Mental Health Initiative, a valuable repository of toolkits, success stories, and other resources. Together, we can harness the power of collective action to drive positive change in the realm of mental health advocacy.
Looking ahead, TriCon 2024 presents a unique opportunity to deepen our understanding of suicide prevention through a special workshop titled, Question. Persuade. Refer. 3 Steps Anyone Can Learn to Help Prevent Suicide. Led by esteemed clinical therapist Sarah Danahy, this workshop aims to equip participants with the tools and knowledge needed to intervene effectively in times of crisis.
Let us heed the call to action and stand in solidarity with those grappling with mental health challenges. As members of Rotary, we possess the power to ignite hope, foster resilience, and save lives. Together, let us embark on this journey of compassion and healing, knowing that our collective efforts can truly make a difference.
Embracing Mental Health: A Call to Action for Rotary Members
Courtesy of Charley Hanney, Ozaukee County News Graphic
The Rotary Club of Thiensville-Mequon’s proposed all-inclusive playground for Rotary Park, if ultimately approved, would be the Zrst of many improvements at the park. Image courtesy of the Rotary Club of T-M
MEQUON — The Rotary Club of Thiensville-Mequon’s all-user playground adjacent to the south pavilion at Rotary Park, 4100 Highland Road, is one step closer to becoming a reality.
The city of Mequon’s Common Council last week unanimously approved a pre-development agreement for the playground, which would meet the needs of all people — not just children — with a wide range of abilities and ages.
"As a volunteer for multiple organizations that serve the IDD community, I am excited that a play area for all abilities, and all ages has been so well received," Club President Jenne Hohn told the News Graphic Sunday. "It is wonderful to see the enthusiastic support from local leadership. I am thrilled that we are going to have this resource in Mequon at one of our loveliest parks."
According to the current concept plan, the park would consist of a large center structure with ramps, slides and climbing opportunities, surrounded by swings, including a wheelchair swing, sliders, archways, mounds, exercise equipment and a variety of other playground equipment.
It would also feature internal paths, landscaping, benches and shaded rest areas, with its colors and design resembling the park’s existing landscape, the club wrote, and in addition, include a safe entranceway, perimeter barriers and improved paths leading to the playground.
Former Mayor John Wirth told the council that this playground, initially identified as a need in the 2019 master planning efforts, is just one of several improvements that the club hopes to make to the park moving forward.
"Hopefully this is the first phase in a number of improvements we’d like to make to the park ...," Wirth said. "People go to Gathering on the Green, there’s no great path to get between the two pavilions at the park and there’s a variety of other improvements we’d like to see. But this, our first phase, is to do a playground. It’s something Mequon sorely needs."
The council agreed, noting that the new playground would be a significant improvement given that the current one’s equipment is more than 25 years old.
"This is a really exciting project...," Alderman Brian Parrish added. "They’re (playgrounds) very expensive and it’s going to take a lot of private groups to fund these over time, so to just get this one underway is very important..." The club, which reiterated that it was not seeking final approval just yet from the council, plans to gain additional input from the community and various organizations representing intellectually and developmentally disabled people.
If it receives final approval, the playground is anticipated to open in early 2026.
Matthew Joynt began teaching in public education in 1999. Prior to being appointed to the position of superintendent of schools in the Mequon-Thiensville School District in July 2017, he served as the assistant superintendent of educational services in the Mequon-Thiensville School District for four years. Dr. Joynt holds a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee, a master's degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and a bachelor's degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
He is a Wisconsin State Certified Teacher and has taught at the elementary level and served as an assistant principal and principal at high performing high schools in the Milwaukee area.
Matthew has extensive experience working to engage students, capitalizing on opportunities to embrace diversity, and facilitating change and continuous improvement efforts within organizations located in metropolitan areas. It is his goal to improve school performance, and Matthew has led school reform at elementary and secondary schools improving teaching and school culture to promote academic growth and help students embrace lifelong learning.
Professional Statement
My professional goal is to be a district administrator and instructional leader in a strong and effective public school district focused on student success. To achieve this goal I believe that my leadership must:
be driven through high expectations (goals and benchmarks) that are shared by all and monitored and assessed consistently.
include communication among students, staff, parents and community members that provides for a positive school environment and decision-making focused on student learning.
provide the means to make success a choice for all students and staff alike; then use accountability measures to ensure such success.
utilize evaluation of data sources and assessment of current practice to promote continuous improvement for students, staff, and the organization.
Amy Luft has a passion for working with veterans. Amy's work with veteran's stems from her desire to honor her late father, a WWIl Army veteran. Amy is a life-time member of the American Legion Auxiliary. She is a Past President of her local unit ni Grafton, and currently serves as the State Vice President. Amy is also a member of the Ozaukee County VFW Auxiliary.
In addition, Amy is very active with Stars and Stripes Honor Flight. Her involvement began as a volunteer guardian in April 2009. In October 2010 she joined the Board of Directors and was then appointed Vice President in 2013. In her role over the years, she served as Director for guardian training, assisted with Call Center, helped with flight logistics and worked closely with the medical team in organizing flights. Amy now serves as an ambassador for the program and to date, has completed 50 Honor Flights.
Amy works at Family Sharing of Ozaukee County as an Assistant Manager. In addition, she serves as a Trustee for the Village of Grafton where her and her husband, Todd, reside. They have two grown daughters and two grandsons, all who belong to the American Legion Family.
Congratulations to Past-president Rob Kos, recipient of the Paul Harris PLUS TWO Award. The presentation of a Paul Harris Fellow recognition is The Rotary Foundation’s way of expressing its appreciation for a substantial contribution to its humanitarian and educational programs. The recognition is named after Rotary’s founder, the late Paul Harris, a Chicago lawyer, who started Rotary with three business associates in 1905. A world of goodwill and better understanding comes closer to reality today because Rob has made a substantial gift to The Rotary Foundation and a Paul Harris Fellow recognition may be presented. In being named a Paul Harris Fellow, he joins a remarkable company of people throughout the world, all recognized for their commitment to Service Above Self to benefit local and international communities. We congratulate you Rob, and thank you for your commitment to Rotary’s common goals of world understanding and peace.
Jenne, Nancy, and Russ visited the Milwaukee Domes last week. The Georgia O'Keefe exhibit is lovely.
Part of the CAC's 2024 Annual Funding was a donation to Mel's Charities for their annual Magical Moments Dance. Over 120 attendees attended the dance at Cedarburg High School. Jenne (Coach Jenne) is pictured here with members of her Special Olympics basketball team.
We send our deep condolences to Karl Hertz for the loss of his beloved wife, and our dear friend, Carol Hertz.
Carol Sue Hertz, 88, passed away April 5, 2024, in Thiensville, Wisconsin. She had an accomplished career as an educator and was a devoted wife and mother. Carol took great joy in her family, community service, reading, gardening, and spending time in Door County.
Carol was married 66 years to her husband Karl Hertz. She described him as “her partner in life.” She dearly loved their three children : Karen Hertz-Sumnicht (Steven), Michael Hertz (Dorothy Thomas) and Sarah Chance. Her deep affection also extended to her five grandchildren: Mary Casper, Anna Casper, Jake Casper (Richard Tijerina), Charles Hertz and Eleanor Hertz. Carol was the daughter of Clarence and Maude Gruber and was born in French Lick, Indiana in 1935.
Carol received her undergraduate degree from Purdue University, her master’s degree from Butler University and a certificate of advanced studies from the University of Chicago. She started her long career teaching high school English in Indianapolis and ended her career as the K-12 curriculum director in Cedarburg, Wisconsin.
There will be a visitation at Lumen Christi Church in Mequon on Friday, April 19, 2024 from 12:30pm until a short prayer service at 2pm. Carol will be remembered at a private family Mass in the chapel at Our Lady of Peace Cemetery in Indianapolis, Indiana.
(Photo taken at the October 2022 District 6270 Foundation Dinner)
MEQUON — The Mequon Park and Open Space Board tonight will consider a new all-user playground adjacent to the south pavilion at Rotary Park, 4100 Highland Road.
The Rotary Club of Thiensville-Mequon is presenting the plan.
If approved, the Rotary Club would plan, construct and donate the playground to the city of Mequon. The Rotary committee that is planning the playground is chaired by Club President Jenne Hohn and former Mequon Mayor John Wirth.
"An all-user playground, sometimes called an inclusive playground, is a play area with equipment and resources that meet the needs of all people — not just children — with a wide range of abilities and ages," Hohn explained. "It is an all accessible play area where users of all ages and all abilities will be able to play and thrive."
Such a park was initially identified as a need in the 2019 master planning efforts.
Designed by Zimmerman Architectural Studios, the current concept plan consists of a large center structure with ramps, slides and climbing opportunities, surrounded by swings, including a wheelchair swing, sliders, archways, mounds, exercise equipment and a variety of other playground equipment. The playground would also feature internal paths, landscaping, benches and shaded rest areas, with its colors and design resembling the park’s existing landscape, the club wrote.
In addition, there would be a safe entranceway, perimeter barriers and improved paths leading to the playground.
“The lake and parking areas at Rotary Park can be tempting to kids and those with autism,” Hohn said. “We want this to be a safe experience for all guests of the park and enjoyable for guests’ parents, grandparents and caregivers.”
The club, which hopes to improve other facilities at the park, either with the playground or in future phases, said the project would not impact the nearby soccer fields. It plans to seek additional input from the community and various organizations that represent intellectual and developmentally disabled people.
Due to the scope of the project, the club anticipates the playground to open in early 2026.
“This will be another great project in our club’s 87 years of giving back to Mequon and Thiensville,” Hohn added.
According to the Mequon Park and Open Space Board’s agenda packet for today, the current playground at Rotary south was constructed in 1996, as several of the playground components were either donated or moved from other locations and are older than 1996.
It wasn’t until last summer when the club approved an initiative to move forward with planning documents for a proposed playground.
The origin of this fund takes us back to the late fifties (1958-60) during the presidencies of Rudy Peters and Ralph Huiras. Ralph had been initiated into the mysteries of corn roasting by Doc Elbe, and very quickly Ralph conceived a plan for a family picnic to be known as the Annual Corn Roast and Bratwurst Fry. Others joined in on the development of the fundraiser which would also serve as a community service project. The net profits from the picnic were to be used to finance Boy Scout programs and school scholarships, and in some cases the fund could be used for other community projects. These profits were kept in segregated funds and invested separately from the club’s operating fund. Over the years, successive Corn Roasts continued to generate profits and the segregated fund grew to the point that earnings were enough to finance the Scouts and the scholarships. The goal had been set to build the fund to $25,000.
By 1967 when Jack Wiese because president of T-M Rotary, the fund had grown to $13,000. The time seemed right to set up the fund in a more formal and legal format. Wiese appointed a committee to study the entire Scout-Scholarship Fund situation and come up with a recommendation to the club. The committee consisted of Merton Campbell, Chairman, Dr. T. D. Elbe, Clem Freitag, Ray Hintz, Ralph Huiras, Francis Meer, Russ Risley, and Harry Schmit. After several meetings the committee finished its job, with Ralph Huiras providing the legal expertise. In September 1967, the report was submitted to President Wiese, who then presented it to the Board of Directors for its perusal. The Board accepted the recommendations with a few minor changes, and shortly thereafter the THIENSVILLE-MEQUON ROTARY CLUB FOUNDATION became a legal entity. The purpose was to provide scholarships to aid graduates of Homestead High School, to provide support to the Boy Scouts of America in the Thiensville-Mequon area, and to provide for emergency services connected exclusively with services to the communities of Thiensville and Mequon or to non-profit or charitable organizations within these communities. A Board of Trustees of five members of the Thiensville-Mequon Rotary Club was to administer the fund, and the method of selecting the Board was specified. The first Board of Trustees consisted of Ralph Huiras, Harry Schmit, James Schmitz, Harold Viste and Jack Wiese (past president). In 1986 the FOUNDATION was reviewed again and some amendments were made, namely; (1) A modification was made in the selection of Trustees, with the treasurer to serve a five-year term; (2) An annual donation of $1000 was to be made to the Frank J. Weyenberg Library Foundation; and an annual donation of $1000 was to be made to the International Rotary Foundation as a Paul Harris Fellowship; this became known as an Honorary Paul Harris Fellowship to be determined by the Club Board of Directors.
Shortly after T-M Rotary launched the Rotary Park project it was necessary to review the foundation again and amend it to cover the initial expenditure of $80,000 plus additional future expenditures toward this $2,500,000 project. Currently the fund is entitled the Thiensville-Mequon Rotary Park Foundation, Inc. The foundation continues to be a vibrant force, as was it’s predecessors for the past 33 years, in meeting the service obligations and commitments of Thiensville-Mequon Rotary Club as it serves our local communities.
A very special THANK YOU to Jim Counsellor for arranging a private tour of the VA Campus. We spent time with Dona Drew and Dr. Bret Berger along with other VA dignitaries. The Veterans Affairs committee from the Sunrise Club joined us. It was an extremely informative event.
Congratulations to our most recent Student of the Month, Hailey Case. We honored her during our March 5th meeting at the River Club. Both of Hailey’s parents, Michelle and Mark Case of Mequon, attended with her. Hailey was selected for her commitment to serving her community and school through the Rotary Interact Club at Homestead High School and various volunteer opportunities at Rotary Park, the Mequon Nature Preserve and the Ozaukee Food Pantry.
She has also pursued her passion for art by leading the National Art Honors Society as the activities director and now co-president. She also enjoys the slopes with Homestead’s Ski & Snowboarding Club. She is a member of the National Honor Society, GEMS (Girls Exploring Math & Science) and has earned the Merit Award and High Honor Roll all 4 years, to name just a few of her accomplishments.
Hailey plans to study engineering this fall and, impressively, has been accepted to all of the schools she applied to and is deciding between University of Wisconsin-Madison, Purdue, and Minnesota. Hailey, congratulations and thank you for your “Service Above Self”!
Patrick is a music teacher, composer and performer. In college, Patrick excelled in psychology and philosophy. He considered a career in medicine but chose the path of the artist instead. Music credits include many films and numerous bands in which he played guitar, bass and piano with styles covering rock, jazz, country, ambient and techno. In 2007, Patrick co-founded Guitars for Vets (G4V) with his student and friend, Vietnam Era Marine, Dan Van Buskirk. Since then, G4V has grown to more than 150 chapters throughout the USA. He is credited with developing the G4V “four-way path” known as PAGE—Patience, Acceptance, Gratitude, Empathy. The G4V community applies these principles in all aspects of operation as they strive to open “windows of serenity” with our military brothers and sisters that live with the challenges of PTSD. Patrick continues to compose and perform music in his band, Kharma Shotgun. His vision for the future is to offer the G4V program to all wounded Veterans throughout the USA and beyond.
Patrick Nettesheim - June 11 Speaker, Guitars for Vets
Join us to honor the first female member of Thiensville-Mequon Rotary Club, and former Mequon Mayor Connie Pukaite on Tuesday, June 4 at North Shore Country Club.
The Mequon-Thiensville Community Foundation (MTCF) will hold its annual Pillars of the Community Award Luncheon on Tuesday, June 4th at 11:30 a.m. at North Shore Country Club. This year, the Foundation will honor Mequon resident and former mayor, Connie Pukaite. “Connie’s passion for people and the environment shines through everything she does – in her past professions, her service to the city of Mequon, and her countless projects that have positively impacted our community and beyond. Connie truly exemplifies what it means to be a Pillar of the Community,” says MTCF President Lori Lorenz.
Connie moved to Mequon in 1966, having been raised on a farm in Massachusetts that was settled by her ancestors in 1725. Those early roots proved to be foundational to her love of woodlands, trees and all-things nature, driving a passion to preserve and maintain natural spaces for future generations to come.
Connie’s life of service is remarkable, with a mission to make the lives of those around her better than how she found them and to strive for service over self. However, her service to ourcommunity didn’t begin for several years after settling in Mequon. Instead, she immersed herself in work to advocate for those who couldn’t advocate for themselves: elevating the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities; helping draft legislation to establish special education in public schools; and fighting for affordable housing and neighborhood renewal in the Milwaukee Lindsey Heights inner city neighborhood.
Indeed, according to close friend and prior Pillars award recipient, Sandy Custer, “To say that Connie is a pillar of Mequon-Thiensville doesn’t begin to take into account the profound influence she has had beyond our community. To me, Connie is a Pillar of Ozaukee County, the city of Milwaukee, and the state of Wisconsin, all in one.”
Connie’s impact in our own community is indeed immense. She served as Alderman for eight years over three different terms; as Mayor and Chair of the Planning Commission for six years; as President of the Mequon Police and Fire Commission for three years; and held numerous leadership positions for the Sunrise Rotary Club over the past 15 years. In fact, Connie was the first woman elected to a top governmental position in Ozaukee County, and was the first female member of the Thiensville-Mequon Rotary Club when they asked her to join in the mid-1980’s!
During her many years of service, she made an indelible mark throughout the community. Connie was instrumental in creating the first comprehensive land-use plan for Mequon; developing the Mequon Industrial Park and saving Garvey Woods; constructing the Mequon Police and Fire Station; developing the gateway feature that graces the entryway to the Town Center; and securing the site for the Spur 16 development, just to name a few!
While mayor, she set the vision for Rotary Park, noting the need for a park large enough to bring the community together to celebrate and recreate – the first park of its kind in Mequon. And on her last day as mayor, the city honored Connie with an 18-acre parcel of land abutting the northern edge of Rotary Park and bearing her name: Pukaite Woods. For the past 16 years, she has been the chief steward of that land, clearing buckthorn, establishing a prairie meadow and oak savannah areas, and maintaining it for all to enjoy.
Joining the Sunrise Rotary Club in 2009 brought together two of Connie’s passions: love for the environment and a desire to serve. As chair of the Environmental Committee she organized the planting of hundreds of native redbud trees throughout the Town Center, tamarack trees along the Riverwalk, and oak trees in Pukaite Woods, providing a bounty of natural beauty throughout the community.
Ask anyone who knows Connie and the praise is effusive. According to Cindy Shaffer, long-time friend and owner of Shaffer Development, “Nearly two decades ago our paths crossed at Mequon Thiensville Sunrise Rotary, and since then, her unwavering dedication to service has left an indelible mark on all who know her. Connie’s commitment to bettering our environment and promoting the common good has been a guiding light for me, both personally and professionally. She embodies the essence of the Rotary motto—service above self—pouring her heart and soul into initiatives that uplift and enrich the lives of those around her. What sets Connie apart is not just her visible contributions, but the countless acts of kindness and generosity that often go unseen. In a world that often seems chaotic and divided, Connie stands as a beacon of hope, reminding us all of the transformative power of compassion and selflessness.”
It shouldn’t come as a surprise then, that for the past dozen years Connie has been tirelessly advocating for the homeless in Ozaukee County and helped to co-found the first homeless shelter, Family Promise of Ozaukee County. Initially her efforts centered around partnering with local churches to provide shelter but soon realized the need was so much more. Fast forward 11 years later, and Family Promise opened its doors in early 2023 – the first free-standing shelter in Ozaukee County – with an emphasis on human dignity and seeking to determine the root cause of homelessness and preventing it in the first place.
Connie lives in Mequon and continues to work on several boards and committees, serving the people and the city that she loves. For Sponsorship Information or to register for this event, please visit our Pillars of the Community event page!
Annette Meyer is the founder of Annette Meyer Studios and Meyer Music Therapy Services. Having established these businesses in 2001, both have expanded to service numerous counties in two states, bringing music and all its benefits to both adults and children alike. Our clients all share the joy of music, and we use this as a means of achieving personalized goals designed around each individuals talents and skills.
Working with a diverse range of clients, we work to cultivate and empower each one, as the key to motivation and success, by introducing possibilities utilizing their own strengths. Having established small and large group programs, as well as working one-on-one, Annette is able to customize and deliver a positive, goal based experience, which benefits all participants.
This commitment to music as a means of personal expression is the foundation of Annette’s approach and methods. Music is a positive construct on so many levels, and whether listening, active playing, song writing or collaborating, everyone can experience the benefits on an intimate level.
The first meeting of the Thiensville-Mequon Rotary Club was held July 29, 1937, with the charter being officially presented on September 21, 1937. There were 20 original members.
From the very beginning the Thiensville-Mequon Rotary Club was alert to community needs and began immediately to support and initiate worthwhile community projects and programs. One of the earliest projects was sponsorship of the Boy Scout Program; and this support still continues in 1993, fifty-six years later. Other early projects were the County Apple Show and Smokey the Fire clown (a school program). During the World War II years, the club was involved with the sale of war bonds, clothing drives, and similar wartime activities. Many more projects have been initiated since those early years; and these are listed elsewhere in this program book. The most recent major project is the City of Mequon Rotary Park, a project officially launched on September 19, 1987, at the fiftieth anniversary ceremonies of the club. Thiensville-Mequon Rotary is working closely with the city of Mequon and initially presented a check for $50,0000.00 toward start up construction, with $30,000.00 in reserve for fundraising activities. Progress has continued in construction and fundraising. Ultimately, over $2,000,000.00 will need to be raised. The Thiensville-Mequon community has always been very supportive of Rotary's fundraising activities which finance numerous worthwhile community projects and programs; and we appreciate that and thank all of our local supporters. It is you who have helped finance the many activities of the Thiensville-Mequon Rotary Club.
Membership in T-M Rotary represents a cross section of the business and Professional individuals in the community. Not only are they good friends, but they are united in a common commitment to serve others for the benefit of the community. This commitment to service has been a dynamic force which has made a solid impact upon our activities and community involvement. The T-M Rotary Club is very proud to be an integral part of the community.
History written in 1993 provided by Shelley Weston
Our speakers on Tuesday, March 19 are Lisamarie Arnold and Jenny Strom, MA, LPC.
Jenny Strom, Director, MA, LPC
Jenny is a psychotherapist and director of North Shore Center in Mequon. She specializes in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families by creating a safe context from which change can occur. Jenny is devoted to helping clients navigate their way through difficult life issues, whatever those may be, in order to heal.
She has worked with clients to make positive and long-lasting changes around issues such as: PTS D, Complex trauma histories, Anxiety, Depression, Mental health and substance abuse, Child sexual abuse, Self-injurious behavior, Family violence/conflict, Grief and loss, as well as emotional, behavioral and relational problems affecting children.
She is intensively trained by the Linhan Institute in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and is a candidate for certification. She also has advanced training in Behavior Activation, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (E/RP). Jenny serves on the board of REDgen and Ozaukee Family Services and cares deeply about their missions and their impact on the community.
Lisamarie Arnold is the executive director of REDgen. REDgen School is peer to peer resilience program designed to educate and empower student leaders to raise resiliency within their school community through connection, reflection and conversation. REDgen School uses the Roots of Resilience curriculum building the foundation for all youth to move from surviving into thriving, both in school and in their lives. Students and staff advisors meet weekly to explore the Roots of Resilience. REDgen School uses education and self reflection to inspire change within themselves and the wider school community.
Frankie's Gift Shop is hosting a Book Fair on Sunday at Shully's Cuisine and Events. Our own Dr. Bruce Rowe is a featured author at the Fair. Dr. Rowe's book is entitled "Everything Under the Sun: A Family Doctor's Reflections on Life, Love, Loss and Renewed Hope in Medicine." We look forward to seeing you there.
Rotarians associate the naming of a Paul Harris Fellow as a tribute to a person who has demonstrated a shared purpose and support for the educational and humanitarian objectives of The Rotary Foundation.
The recognition is named after Rotary’s founder, the late Paul Harris, a Chicago lawyer, who started Rotary with three business associates in 1905. A world of goodwill and better understanding comes closer to reality today because Sam Azinger has made a substantial donation to The Rotary Foundation and can be named as a Paul Harris Fellow – PLUS THREE.
Becoming a Paul Harris Fellow is a tremendous accomplishment and honor. So much good begins with these gifts: wells are constructed, children are vaccinated against illness, senior citizens are afforded meals and services, children and adults are educated and given professional opportunities. This work is vital to the children, families, and communities who benefit. Only when people’s basic needs are met, can they pursue the larger elements of human life including conflict resolution, community building, and peace. Paul Harris Fellows, in a very tangible way, provide steppingstones to a more harmonious world.
Sam has repeatedly gone above and beyond in “doing good in the world.” Thank you, Sam, for using your time, talent, and treasure to enhance the lives of others. Your generosity means so much to so many. On behalf of the club, we thank you and welcome you to receive your new multiple Paul Harris pin. Please wear this with pride in honor of all the lives that you will reach through your generosity. Sam Azinger continues to put “Service above Self.”
Our speaker on Tuesday, March 12 is Caitlin Steinberg.
I am a founder, executive director, and chief historian at Operation Green Faces (OGF), a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the primary source history of the U.S. Navy UDT and SEALs, specifically from the formation of UDT through the Vietnam War. I have over six years of experience in leading a diverse team of contractors and volunteers, managing fundraising and grant writing, as well as cultivating relationships with key stakeholders and leaders within the Naval Special Operations community.
I am also an award-winning journalist and photographer, with a passion for covering breaking news and documenting stories of resilience and creativity. I received the SPJ James Julian Memorial Award in 2021 for my outstanding reporting, news writing, and podcast production during the 2020 political campaign season. My art pieces and photography have been featured by galleries in San Diego County, the Ansel Adams Gallery in Yosemite National Park, and multiple fine art wedding publications. Additionally, I have produced all of the documentary style oral history content created by Operation Green Faces using Ultra-HD 4k equipment formatted to fit any gallery or exhibit as well as appear in Documentaries and Films.
My mission is to create accessible, imaginative, and intimate experiences for museum visitors, artists, veterans, and students, by merging fine art, mental health services, public education, and oral history. I believe that by celebrating cultural heritage, creative expression, common human experiences, and public history, we can build more resilient communities and foster programs that educate, inspire, and heal.
To close, I am a proud member of the Society of American Archivists, the Oral History Association, and the American Association of State and Local History... I honored to work in this field for the rest of my life.
Our incoming President Tyler Briggs and incoming President-elect Peter Gohsman spent the weekend at Midwest PETS for Presidential training. They got to hang out with President Kyle Camp from the Berlin Wisconsin Rotary Club. Tyler will take his official role as President on Tuesday, June 25, 2024!
Our club is the recipient of the ShelterBox HERO Award.
About ShelterBox In 2023, ShelterBox supported more than 325,000 people (approximately 65,000 households). It is our second biggest year, behind the 420,000 supported in 2022, in terms of people reached since ShelterBox began in 2000.
We supported thousands of people in Türkiye and Syria after earthquakes devastated the region. In Morocco, where a powerful earthquake had caused widespread damage in the Atlas Mountains, our teams worked with our partner Association Le Grand Atlas, and Rotary District 9010 to distribute emergency shelter aid to around 20 affected communities.
East Africa has been victim to the worst drought in 40 years, causing millions of people to be displaced. We’ve supported thousands of people in Ethiopia this year providing essential household items, tarpaulins, and ropes for people who have been displaced. We also launched our first project in Somalia since 2011 and have so far been able to provide support for hundreds of people, with additional projects in the pipeline for 2024.
As the conflict in Ukraine approaches its third year, we are delivering our sixth project in the country supporting thousands more people with winter clothing, blankets, and stoves. We are continuing to support people affected by conflict in Syria with winterisation projects too, making sure people have thermal clothing, blankets, and tarpaulins to help make temporary shelters waterproof.
In Cameroon, we’ve supported over 100,000 people who have had to flee their homes due to conflict, the climate crisis, and poverty. Our latest project in the country has supported over 63,000 people with shelter.
Here are two short videos to watch about ShelterBox:
As we sit back and ponder the journey we have embarked on in Rotary, we create moments to look back and connect the dots. Well, it is time again to shape the future of Rotary through club and district resolutions. The Council on Resolutions (COR) meets online each Fall to vote on proposed resolutions and urgent enactments. A resolution addresses a concern for the entire Rotary world and not a local or administrative issue. Conversely, an urgent enactment is a change to the constitutional documents, proposed by the RI Board, that the Board has determined cannot wait until the next Council on Legislation.
Delegates from each Rotary district cast votes on proposals presented by clubs, districts, the RI Board, and the general council or Rotary in Great Britain and Ireland Council. Resolutions that receive approval are subsequently reviewed by either the RI Board or The Rotary Foundation Trustees. Swiftly approved enactments alter the constitutional documents and become effective one month following the transmission of the Council on Resolutions report.
So, why is this information important? This presents a chance for you to influence the global operations of Rotary. Clubs and districts can propose resolutions for review at the upcoming COR next Fall, with a submission deadline of June 30.
Curious about the resolutions deliberated upon last fall? You can access them online at https://my.rotary.org/en/council/cor/vote. These results will be available on the page until the commencement of the next COR.
For further inquiries, feel free to reach out to PDG Rick Debe, who currently serves as our district's representative.
Reflecting Forward: Your Resolutions, Your Rotary Impact
Congratulations to President Jenne Hohn, recipient of her first Paul Harris Award. The presentation of a Paul Harris Fellow recognition is The Rotary Foundation’s way of expressing its appreciation for a substantial contribution to its humanitarian and educational programs. The recognition is named after Rotary’s founder, the late Paul Harris, a Chicago lawyer, who started Rotary with three business associates in 1905. A world of goodwill and better understanding comes closer to reality today because Jenne has made a substantial gift to The Rotary Foundation and a Paul Harris Fellow recognition may be presented. In being named a Paul Harris Fellow, she joins a remarkable company of people throughout the world, all recognized for their commitment to Service Above Self to benefit local and international communities. We congratulate you Jenne, and thank you for your commitment to Rotary’s common goals of world understanding and peace.
February 2024 The Guatemala Medical Resource Partnership (GMRP) is a project of the Thiensville-Mequon Rotary Clubs, started in 2005 by Doug Hansen, formerly of Washington Island, WI and his Rotary Club members. January of 2024 was the 20th year of our work there. The mission serves the rural population around Oliveros, Guatemala, an extremely poor area in the southeastern part of Guatemala, near the Pacific Ocean and the border with El Salvador. Each year around 600-800 people registered for care at our 4 1/2-day clinic. Our clinic is often the only medical care they receive during the year. Doug and his wife Pam had gone to Guatemala to visit their son Brian, who was in the Peace Corps there. They were so very touched by the people’s poverty, that they came home determined to do something about it. It took Doug and his Rotary Club members a whole year of research, and the finding of Enrique Gandara (Kico), the Guatemalan Rotary member working in Madison WI who was key in putting the plans together to bring their hopes to fruition. It is his ranch the team stays at. And his workers who help set up the clinic and feed us. His contacts help us get through customs down there with minimal hassle, and he arranges the in-country transportation and protection we have. After the first mission, a team of T-M Rotarians went back to Oliveros and updated and rewired the school electrical system. Another team went back and hooked up a water tower to the existing well that now serves a large part of the area. The water is chlorinated and fluoridated, providing safe drinking water and improving dental health. Water does not go to individual homes, but is within walking distance for people to fill jugs. Currently, every January, a team of about 40 people, consisting of medical providers, dentists, dental assistants, interpreters, optometrists, nurses and general volunteers-who all personally pay over $1,300 each for their own airfare, bus transportation in Guatemala, and room and board-travel to Guatemala. At times we have a nutritionist to help with education. We did not sent a team in 2021-2023 due to Covid problems, but supported our Continuing Care program. The clinic is held in a local elementary school which doesn’t hold classes for the week we are there. Our examining tables, dental chairs and other equipment are stored in a donated semi-trailer. Trying to make this a partnership, local parents and teens help us haul the equipment into the school to set up, and also to put it all away. Local volunteers help with registration and escorting patients to the right areas. Other volunteers are a Guatemalan psychologist who generally joins us, and at times a Guatemalan ob/gyn and his assistant are with us for 2 days. We’ve also had Guatemalan dentists join us as well. Students of English help serve as interpreters. In 2014, we began our Continuing Care program. For several years we had been looking for a way to serve people who needed various surgeries and care after we left, --for cataracts, hernias, orthopedic problems, cancer, etc. This part of our program has been truly life-changing for the patients involved! We have continued to provide this through covid years. In 2014 we found Floridalma Quintanilla (Flory), a Guatemalan woman who works at a hospital for the poor in Antigua and knows her way around the medical system in the country. Since then, she has organized our approximately 145 yearly follow-up patients and their care, shepherding them through the bus ride to the hospital, 3 hours away from their town, and through all the necessary trips and tests that lead to surgery. The operations are provided free of charge by teams of rotating international surgeons, we pay the hospital surgical fee. Flory is a genius at getting other services donated or at a reduced price—ambulance rides to the hospital by the local fire department, prosthetic devices for our amputees by another mission, half price fees from the hospital, free chemo treatments for a needy mother, wheel chairs and much more. She also asks patients to help pay for part of their tests and treatment, as she feels they are able. Still, we need to pay her salary ($400 a month), hospital fees, doctor consults, lab tests, MRIs, CT scans, X-rays, prescriptions, Covid tests and transportation for the patients. We often have to pay for dental work, since some teeth are so badly infected that there would be a risk to do surgery without repairing them. Our budget is about $15,000 for the week-long clinic and $50,000 or more for the Continuing Care program. We are always looking for medical personnel, dentists, optometrists and interpreters to join our team. Please visit our web site http://gmrp.org to get a better idea of our project -- to view a short video, see photos of the mission, read short articles about the people served, and see quotes from our team members. You may also donate online or send checks to T-M Rotary-GMRP, PO Box 182, Washington Island, WI 544246
Our speaker on March 5 is James Marshall. James founded Spectrum Investment Advisors located in Mequon, WI in 1995—he currently resides as the chairmen, ambassador, and partner. He has dedicated much of his free time to his community, as James is the Chairman of Mequon/Thiensville Chamber of Commerce Past Presidents, and the current President of OED—Ozaukee County Economic Development. James has a deep appreciation for Warren Buffett’s success and moral code—as he has applied much of Buffett’s advice to his own life. Having lived through the Korean, Vietnam, and Cold War, James has witnessed the valor that the U.S. military men and women hold. He is a proud American who acknowledges the amount of bravery that backs every U.S. citizen’s success.
After four years, James and his son Jonathan along with Katy Pavon finished the book, The American Tailwind. They launched the book in November 2023 with a 2-day book launch at Foxtown Station in Mequon, inviting the community to celebrate the history of the American resilience. The book launch theme was veteran focused with a “Berkshire Hathaway Conference” flare. Spectrum sold dilly bars for local veteran organizations, toasted with coca cola, passed out poppys from the American Legion, with the grandson of General George Patton (Pat Waters) as the special guest speaker during the program.
This year kicked off The American Tailwind Media Tour, including a January 2024 appearance on WTMJ’s, the Morning Blend show!
The Thiensville-Mequon Rotary Club raised $5188 for Family Sharing during their recent holiday drive. The fund raising team led by Sandy Custer beat Jenne Hohn’s team by raising $3538 to Hohn’s $1650. Angelica Niemann was in charge of the drive. Pictured from left to right: Sandy Custer, Julie Hoover from Family Sharing, Angelica Niemann, and Jenne Hohn.
Past-president Maureen O'Leary-Guth, President (and Friends of the Domes Board Member) Jenne Hohn, and President-nominee Peter Gohsman recently attended An Elegant Auction in support of the Milwaukee Domes.
On Tuesday, February 20th, our featured speaker is Tim Van Vooren, Sports Director from Fox 6 Milwaukee.
I have been at FOX6 since September 1990 and have enjoyed every minute of it.
Growing up in West Bend, I never would have believed that I would get the chance to cover events such as Super Bowls and Final Fours and Major League playoff games and NASCAR events as a Milwaukee sportscaster.
In between, there have been so many feature stories with folks who excel far from the spotlight.
With continually evolving technology, there are more and more exciting ways to share those stories.
This job is never the same from day to day, which is one of the reasons it is so much fun.
Thanks for letting me be a part of your viewing experience.
As we reflect on the journey of Rotary International, it is remarkable to think that just 35 years ago, representatives from across the Rotary world gathered in Singapore for a pivotal meeting at the Council on Legislation. This meeting marked a significant moment in Rotary's history, as it came on the heels of the 1987 US Supreme Court decision declaring that women could no longer be excluded from membership. The winds of change were blowing, and the Rotary landscape was about to transform.
The Council on Legislation (COL) delegates convened on January 23, 1989, and a historic decision was made. They voted to eliminate the RI Constitution requirement limiting Rotary Club membership to men. By January 26, 1989, the doors were allowed to swing open. Women would be welcomed into Rotary clubs around the world. The echo of this decision would resonate for decades, shaping the trajectory of Rotary in ways unimaginable at the time.
One individual who foresaw the importance of adapting to a changing world was Past Rotary International President Frank J. Devlyn. In addressing his fellow delegates, he emphasized the vast differences between the world of 1989 and the world of Rotary's inception in 1905. His words laid the foundation for a new era in Rotary that embraced inclusivity and recognized the need to evolve with the times.
The decision to admit women into Rotary clubs worldwide was not a spontaneous event but the result of decades-long efforts by dedicated men and women from every corner of the Rotary world. Previous Council meetings had seen close votes on the matter, highlighting the ongoing struggle for change.
The response to this groundbreaking decision was nothing short of overwhelming. By June 1990, the number of female Rotarians had soared to over 20,000. Fast forward to July 2010, and women's membership worldwide reached 195,000, constituting about 16% of Rotarians. In July 2020, that number surpassed 277,000, making up approximately 23% of Rotary's global membership.
Rotary's commitment to creating an environment where everyone is included and allowed to have a sense of belonging has become a top priority. The organization recognizes that its capacity to make a lasting impact and expand its reach is magnified when diverse voices unite. Rotary celebrates and welcomes the contributions of individuals from all backgrounds, irrespective of age, ethnicity, race, color, abilities, religion, socioeconomic status, culture, sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
The journey of women in Rotary is not just about membership numbers. It is about active participation and leadership. Women have increasingly taken on roles that contribute to their communities and assumed leadership positions within Rotary. The 1989 Council on Legislation vote remains a watershed moment, symbolizing Rotary's commitment to progress and inclusivity.
As we look back at the evolution of Rotary over these 35 years, it is evident that change is not just inevitable. Change is essential. The story of women in Rotary serves as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of an organization that continues to grow and diversify. The spirit of Rotary lies not only in its rich history. The spirit exists in its ability to embrace change, guided by the belief that a Rotary Club should reflect the communities it serves. In the words of Frank Devlyn at the 1989 COL, "Rotary has to adapt itself to a changing world." Let us continue to celebrate the spirit of Rotary, where change is embraced as a catalyst for a brighter future.
Embracing Change: The Evolution of Rotary and the Inclusion of Women
Rotary members Matt Joynt, Andrew Nerbun, and Van Mobley led the State of the Community address on Wednesday, February 7.
Pictured (L) to (R) are Chamber Vice President Ron Knaus, Superintendent Dr. Matt Joynt, Mayor Andy Nerbun, Chamber President Bob Adams, and Thiensville Village President Van Mobley.
Rotary clubs in the ski resort towns of Park City, Utah, and Breckenridge, Colorado, have a friendly rivalry for the longest “shot ski” — a ski affixed to shot glasses that people raise together to down whiskey at the same time. In October, the Rotary Club of Park City Sunrise recaptured the crown as 1,363 people lined a street to drink rye whiskey (or apple cider) in unison from hundreds of shot skis held end to end. The event raised more than $43,000 for grants to assist community organizations, club member Connie Nelson says. She concedes that she and fellow club member Mike Luers were inspired by the Colorado club during a “reconnaissance” tour of successful winter resorts. “Their main street was closed for a festival. I looked at Mike and he looked at me and we said, ‘We can beat that,’” she says. The festive affair is “branding for our Rotary club,” Nelson adds. “We not only sell out but we have people on a waiting list to try to get on the line. It’s not just to sample the alcohol. It’s about the getting together, the unique community sharing.”
Honduras
Nearly 40 percent of adolescents are not in secondary school in Honduras, where educational achievement scores are low. The Rotary clubs of Tegucigalpa Sur and Peterborough, Ontario, teamed up to address the issue. In 2018 the clubs, which have collaborated on projects before, constructed a teacher training center in the municipality of Lepaterique and supplied books and other learning materials. Most recently, the clubs partnered with a nonprofit organization and the country’s Ministry of Education to provide literacy training to primary school teachers. “Sixteen-hour workshops are being held on a rotating basis with 160 teachers” representing 62 schools, says Marie Press, a member of the Peterborough club. “The feedback has been incredibly positive.”
TriCon offers an opportunity to gather together for a weekend to share ideas, learn from numerous speakers, connect with others from across the state, and yes, GET INSPIRED!
You know "WHY" you are a Rotarian, but brainstorming and learning new ways to answer the "HOW" can be transforming.
At TriCon, you will hear Rotarians from all over the globe share their stories, see how other Rotarians accomplish their goals, brainstorm with individuals, make new friends and have tons of fun in the process! That is the beauty of Rotary and the power of three districts coming together for a weekend.
Visit our website at rotarywglconf.org to see what the weekend in Packer Country has to offer! Check out the details, and while you're at it, look in the upper right corner for that REGISTER NOW button and get yourself registered!
Today's inspiration came from the in-person version of Peterson Apfelbach. It was inspiring to see him!
With an update from Ellen:
Peterson was at our meeting today. He told his story as his Inspiration and thanked everyone who sent texts, cards, and emails or called. He described his chemo fatigue and how he is fighting to get his strength back.
The moral of his story is: put out good into the community. You never know when or how it may return to help you.
The Mequon-Thiensville Sunrise Rotary Club and the City of Mequon are excited to partner again for the fourth year, offering a Candlelight “Walk-In-The-Woods” at Pukaite Woods in Rotary Park.
The event will take place on Saturday, February 17, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The event is free to the public. The public restrooms will be open, and volunteers from the Rotary Club will serve hot cocoa and cider with bonfire stations positioned throughout the park. This year will feature a “Winter Beer Garden.” The 1840 Brewing Company will have a beer truck on site with beverages for purchase. Bring your furry friend, as dogs on leashes are welcome!
Learn more about how you can assist with the environmental sustainability of the woods at the event.
Join members of Rotary and Guests from Districts 6220, 6250 & 6270 at our annual 3‑district conference in Green Bay
It is our pleasure to welcome you all to TriCon24, which will be held from the 18th to the 20th of April 2024. This conference promises to be a spectacular event that will bring together Rotary members from all corners of our three districts; 6220, 6250, and 6270.
Conference Agenda
Here's a quick summary.
Thursday - The Foundation Dinner at The Automotive Gallery
Friday Morning - TriCon24 Conference kicks-off with Annual District Meetings
Friday Afternoon through Saturday - Workshops, House of Friendship, Polio Silent Auction
Activities - Lambeau Field Tours, Pounding the Pavement 4 Polio, Dine Around, Question-Persuade-Refer Workshop, and more.
Did you know you can donate monthly to the Rotary Foundation through Rotary Direct? From donations as little as $5/month to whatever you'd like, it's very easy to do. Click here for directions on how to donate. For more information about the Rotary Foundation, click here.
Our own Mayor Nerbun recently visited the University School of Milwaukee. In his own words:
It was a busy but rewarding Friday! I started out my day at University School of Milwaukee where I explained what a mayor does to a group of preschoolers using the show “Paw Patrol” to learn about different jobs. They agreed I was more like Mayor Goodway than Mayor Humdinger, which I’ve been told is a good thing! We then held a preschool council meeting and voted on a matter of great importance. Should the class have Goldfish or Graham Crackers for snack time? (Goldfish for the win)
Their next project is learning about police officers, so since I had business at Mequon Police Department later in the day, I agreed to bring along “K9 Officer Chase” with me on my adventures and document what we did.
Then I was on to the PD to get an update on police related activity for the past few months and a ride along with Sgt. Ben Heinen to see first hand what our officers do every day. K9 Chase was along for the entire day and now has some good stories for his preschool class on Monday when I return him!
Thank you to University School and Mequon PD for making my day a great one!
Kathleen Cady Schilling is the Executive Director of Ozaukee Economic Development. Kathleen has been with OED for over 15 years and has been involved in economic development for over 25 years. Kathleen has previously worked for the City of Monroe in Michigan, Brookfield Wisconsin and the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee.
As a member of the District 6270 PolioPlus Society, you get the good news first...
We ended the year 2023 with a total of 12 cases of wild poliovirus, with Afghanistan and Pakistan each experiencing only 6 cases. Of course, this is 12 cases more than we would like to see, but it is an improvement from the 22 total cases in 2022.
The last recorded case in Afghanistan was September 4th, and in Pakistan it was on October 24th - ironically World Polio Day. How nice would it be to have that be the date of the last case on Earth!
Another bit of good news...as of December 31st our District has contributed 7.5% more to the PolioPlus Fund than at the same time in 2022. Thanks to Rotarians such as yourselves, we are making a difference in ending polio. Our District's contribution for the first half of the Rotary Year is $57,498.
Thanks for your contribution, and your ongoing commitment to a minimum annual donation of at least $100. We had a great result from this year's World Polio Day fundraisers, and are planning even bigger things in the coming months.
There will be two MAJOR workshops at the upcoming TRI-CON, an update on the Flight to End Polio and a presentation by Mike McGovern, head of Rotary's efforts to End Polio Now. There will also be an opportunity to join other Rotarians in a workshop to swap fundraising stories and ideas.
Two fundraising events for PolioPlus will also be held at TRI-CON. There will be a silent auction of gift baskets donated by clubs, featuring items from their service area, as well as a Pound the Pavement 4 Polio walk, which can be done anytime between now and April 20th.
A group of health care workers from Wisconsin has resumed post-pandemic care in Guatemala. They touched down last weekend. They are sending diary entries and photos. Attached is one of their latest updates and a photo of the group.
This medical relief mission is sponsored by Rotarians in Wisconsin. The project started with our club in 2003. In fact, our Board completely funded the first trip. Monies donated go through our local foundation. To get involved with this project, you can click here.
It's almost midnight and the “boys” are finally getting a chance to go to sleep. It was a long day but they’ll have a chance to sleep later in the morning since we won’t go to the ranch until after Amy and Peter arrive. The school is all clean. Goyo is going to start moving stuff to the courtyard and possibly locals will help them to begin setting up.
Denise Loveridge from Interfaith Caregivers of Ozaukee County was our speaker on Tuesday, January 16. They have a new pilot program and could use volunteer help. Click here or on the image below for more information:
Join our President (and Friends of the Domes Board Member) for an elegant night at the Milwaukee Domes. Doors open at 5:30PM, with a cocktail hour featuring hors d’oeuvres, drinks and a signature cocktail sponsored by Zilli Hospitality Group. Next, travel across the world, enjoying cuisine that is themed after each dome. Throughout the facility, enjoy fun opportunities to win prizes and bid on one-of-a-kind items and experiences, all while enjoying our selection of live music. Finally, end the evening in the starlit greenhouse where you will be served dessert and coffee.
We need volunteers for Frost Fest 2024 at the War Memorial Center on Saturday, February 3. For further information, contact James Counsellor, jimjennycounsellor@gmail.com, (262) 573-6410.
Paul J. Schultz was born in Kenosha, Wisconsin and at the age of five his family moved to Menomonee Falls. Immediately after graduating High School, and following in his long family military history, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force where he served as a Flying Crew Chief aboard the KC-135/A Stratotanker. After five years on active duty, and visiting many foreign countries, Paul received an Honorable Discharge and went on to become a professional jet mechanic for Federal Express at their international hub located in South Korea.
Upon returning to the United States several years later, Paul entered UW-Milwaukee and received his B.S. in Healthcare Administration. Over the next 25 years, he rose to the level of Administrator/Executive Director of large Skilled Nursing and Assisted Living organizations in the Southeastern region of Wisconsin. In early 2019 Paul was recruited to become the new Executive Director of Interfaith Caregivers replacing the retiring Director.
Paul enjoys gathering with friends and family, spending time on the water, and playing frisbee with his dog. He is a U.S.A.F. combat veteran, and a life member of both the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
AJ Bocchini has been rescheduled to February 6 due to inclement weather.
From crashing wheelchairs to national championships, this is the story of how AJ Bocchini rolls through life.
Born two months early and weighing a mere 3 pounds 14 ounces, AJ was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at a young age. His many adventures began when he was introduced to his first wheelchair. Raised in the small village of Kohler, Wisconsin, it was here that AJ’s love for sports developed and flourished as football and basketball manager for the high school programs.
He took his passion for basketball to the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, earning his bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism and his master’s in athletic administration. AJ became the student manager for the men’s basketball team and was an integral part of two national championships.
As you read AJ’s humorous and insightful stories, hopefully you will be inspired and also challenged to overcome all that is before
After coaching stints at St. Catherines and Kohler High schools and then working for Fiserv (Milwaukee Bucks), AJ now resides in Mequon, bringing his energy to various teams and organizations:
Homestead High School: Assistant Varsity Men’s Basketball Coach
Mel’s Charity’s of Ozaukee County
Daily Sports Show Podcast Cedarburg Library Radio
Chinooks Baseball: Concession Stand
Inspirational/Motivational Speaker to any/all schools/organizations and businesses.
• For more information on the book FINISH please check out:
Congratulations to Team Sandy - winner of the Family Sharing Drive!
The totals:
🥇 Team Sandy - $3538 🥇
🥈 Team Jenne - $1650 🥈
🏆 TOTAL - $5188 🏆
A very special thank you to all who participated. In lieu of tailgate snacks, the River Club will be serving a tailgate-themed menu on Tuesday, January 9.
Hi everyone, my name is Samantha Bear! I was born and raised in the North Shore of Milwaukee, Fox Point area, and went to a Nicolet High School. I had the pleasure of attending Marquette University my freshman year of college, then transferring to UW-Milwaukee where I received my B.A. in Cross-Categorical education for individuals with disabilities ages 12-21+. Along with that I received a special certification for Autism Spectrum Disorders. After working in MPS, living and teaching in Israel, and moving back stateside, I started my masters with Loyola University of Chicago. While working as the lead transition teacher for Menomonee Falls High School, I completed my M.A. in International Higher Education with a sub focus of disabilities in higher education globally. For four years I worked at Bethesda College at Concordia University WI; focusing in on enhancing independent living skills and community integration for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As of September 1, 2021, I have shifted from education to the non-profit sector working as the Executive Director of Blossom IDD and run the Cedarburg Mercantile; both of which support individuals with disabilities. Along with that, in August of 2023 I started my Doctorate in Education with a focus on Higher Education Teacher and Learning with my research topic centered around global best practices in transition for people with IDD. In my spare time I love to hang out with my buddy through the Best Buddies WI organization and do respite care for individuals in the community. I love to volunteer a ton with a local food pantry and serve on their board, work with individuals trapped in the street life due to homelessness or human trafficking, travel-as much as possible, and hang out with my cat and recently (2) adopted dogs at home in Bayview! Fun fact about me, I speak 6 languages!
Thanks to more of you spreading the word to your friends and clubs, we have had enough funds come in to pay for all the clinic costs- supplies, medicines, etc and to cover our Continuing Care program through at least January, I would estimate. 😍 Good news indeed!
*Now we need to build the Continuing Care fund to cover all of the patients that will be referred for followup care at our January clinic.
This will require donations both now and throughout the upcoming year, if we are to fulfill the promises we make to the patients we will see.
Please continue to spread the word about our mission this fall and winter and upcoming year.
We have an amazing health care delivery system setup, with the people in Guatemala to run it. All that remains is for us to fund it. 🤩
Gratefully, Barb
More information about our GMRP Project can be found HERE.
Congratulations to Andy Nerbun and Van Mobley - recipients of the 2023 Intergovernmental Cooperation Award.
On Wednesday, November 15, the Southern Ozaukee Fire & EMS Department (SOFD) and many City and Village Officials attended Wisconsin Policy Forum’s 31st Annual Salute to Local Government that was held at the Italian Community Center in Milwaukee. SOFD was awarded the Intergovernmental Cooperation Award for the merging of the Mequon and Thiensville Fire Departments that took place on January 1, 2023. Watch the video detailing highlights of the merger here.
Congratulations Andy and Van!
Andy and Van - Intergovernmental Cooperation Award
The Veterans Affairs Committee volunteered at MKE Urban Stables on Saturday on behalf of the SE Wisconsin Veterans Suicide Prevention Task Force. Activities included a Grooming Station, Donkey Kissing Booth, and Veterans resource information.
Several Rotarians attended the Chris Herren Talks presentation at the Cedarburg PAC. The event was hosted by our friends at Mel's Charities and co-sponsored by Rotary District 6270, Mequon-Milwaukee Diversity Passport Club, Cedarburg-Grafton Rotary Club, and Port Washington-Saukville Rotary Club. Included in all of the great work Rotary does, our district has a Rotary Action Group for Addiction Prevention. Our District Governor, Don Griffing does great work- especially in regards to addiction and recovery.
Out-and-about at the Mequon Thiensville Community Foundation's Donor Reception
Thanks to Angelica for heading the Family Sharing Drive and dropping off the first round of checks! She delivered $2000 today and we are only half-way through the Drive! Remember, the Family Sharing Drive ends at our December 5 meeting.
Join us for an in-person volunteer opportunity on Monday, December 4. We will be decorating a holiday tree at the new Family Promise location in Pt. Washington. Please bring small donation gift cards to share. (Kwik Trip, Culver's, Piggly Wiggly, Meijer, Walmart, etc.) A little goes a long way.
We honored our first Student of the Month, Clare Pepke, on November 6th. Clare is a senior at Homestead High School and is the daughter of Kathleen & Michael Pepke of Mequon. Clare was recognized for her community service and leadership within her school and our local community.
One of Clare’s most impactful projects was a silent auction that she independently organized for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), an organization that she is passionate about and sees a real need among our youth especially since COVID. NAMI doesn’t have sufficient resources to help all of those in need, so she coordinated with local news networks, the local artist guild, and her art teachers to build support for the event. She raised approximately $1,500 selling artwork at her event.
In addition to being passionate about artwork and supporting NAMI, Clare is also very involved in Homestead’s National Honor Society, she is the Vice President of the National Art Honors Society and is the Vice President of the Psychology Club. She is also a recipient of the Scholastic Gold Key award for her artwork.
Clare, we are honored to recognize you as our Rotary Student of the Month. Thank you for your “service above self” and setting such a great example among your peers!
Jenne, Maureen, and Jeremy attended the recent District 6270 Foundation Dinner in Hartford. Our Club received the End Polio Now - Countdown to History Appreciation Award. Thank you to our Club and the great work of Sam Azinger for this award! We met some wonderful friends in Rotary including Saki, a Rotary Youth Exchange student from Japan.
Several Rotarians enjoyed the Grand Re-opening of The Cheel
Rotarians attended Thiensville's Appreciation Dinner Wednesday, Nov. 1st. Rotarian Colleen Landisch-Hansen presented Van Mobley recognition for 20 years of service and Dianne Robertson recognition for 25 years of service. Congratulations on serving the community!
On Tuesday, November 7 we feature Mel Stanton of Mel's Charities. We look forward to hearing an update about the Saukville Gateway project.
After growing up in Cleveland and Green Bay, Mel settled in Ozaukee County in the mid 1980s. This journey began when he encouraged a gathering of friends to help one family in need. From that simple act of charity, Mel’s Charities has grown into an organization that has raised over $2million to impact countless lives in Ozaukee County. Mel truly has a servant’s heart, guided by a strong faith, and driven with incredible energy to find new ways to impact people in our community.
“Our story is a true testament of what can be accomplished by having fun, not taking yourself too seriously and a huge dose of God’s grace. We keep impacting more lives every year…and we’re just getting started.”
The Bay-Lakes Council, Boy Scouts of America held a 'walk of fame' to recognize 50 people who were Scouts in their youth over the past 50 years and used their Scouting background to do all kinds of wonderful, positive things for others. Tim Vertz was named as one of the 50. Stan Smith accepted the honor on behalf of his son Brad.
Thiensville Rotarians Trick-or-treating
The Roadside Clean-up Crew - with special thanks to Angelica for the treats!
Now in his eleventh season at Milwaukee Rep, under Chad’s guidance the theater has grown significantly from a $9M to $14M+ organization. He’s completed two capital campaigns to remodel the Stackner Cabaret, build the endowment, launch the John D. Lewis New Play Development Program, create a new A Christmas Carol and deepen the theater’s community engagement programs. He is currently stewarding the $78M campaign to build the new Associated Bank Theater Center. Previously he was the Associate Executive Director at Arena Stage in Washington, DC, where he was instrumental in opening the Mead Center for American Theater, a new 200,000 square feet performing arts complex. While at Arena, he worked on the Broadway transfers of Next to Normal (Pulitzer Prize; Tony Award), Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (Tony Award), and Wishful Drinking starring Carrie Fisher. Bauman is a graduate of Harvard Business School with a Master of Fine Arts in producing from the CalArts.
October 31 Speaker, Chad Bauman, Executive Director Milwaukee Repertory Theater
Jenne at the Balance Gala with (from left) Cedarburg-Grafton Rotary Board Member Pat Thome, Milwaukee Community Sailing Center Development Director Teresa Coronado, and Cedarburg Mayor Mike O'Keefe
Weekly Photos and Reminder - No Noon Meeting This Week (October 10)
Congratulations to Board Member Russ Witte-Dycus, recipient of his Paul Harris Plus Two! The presentation of a Paul Harris Fellow recognition is The Rotary Foundation’s way of expressing its appreciation for a substantial contribution to its humanitarian and educational programs. The recognition is named after Rotary’s founder, the late Paul Harris, a Chicago lawyer, who started Rotary with three business associates in 1905. A world of goodwill and better understanding comes closer to reality today because Russ has made a substantial gift to The Rotary Foundation and a Paul Harris Fellow recognition may be presented. In being named a Paul Harris Fellow, he joins a remarkable company of people throughout the world, all recognized for their commitment to Service Above Self to benefit local and international communities. We congratulate you Russ, and thank you for your commitment to Rotary’s common goals of world understanding and peace.
Congratulations Russ Witte-Dycus - Paul Harris Plus Two
Past President Maureen O'Leary-Guth receiving the 2023 Herbert J. Mueller Outstanding Professional Adviser of the Year Award from the Greater Milwaukee Foundation
Rotarians at Mel's Charities Fun Run/Walk
Captain (President) Jenne sailing with Berlin Wisconsin Rotary Club President Kyle Camp
We feature speaker Ted Kellner, CFA on Tuesday, September 26. He is the 2024 RNC Host Committee CEO. Mr. Kellner will discuss the economic impact of the upcoming RNC in Milwaukee.
A Chartered Financial Analyst with 50 years of investment experience, Ted is a retired founder and portfolio manager with Fiduciary Management Inc., an investment management firm established in 1980. The firm currently manages approximately $18 billion in assets, in pension and profit sharing trusts, Taft-Hartley and public funds, endowments, and personal trusts throughout the United States. Ted also founded and serves as Executive Chairman and Treasurer of Fiduciary Real Estate Develop- ment, Inc., also in Milwaukee, which owns and manages over $1.8 billion in multi-family residential units. Ted and his wife, Mary, reside in Mequon, Wisconsin and have three adult children and five grandchildren.
EDUCATION AND PAST EXPERIENCE
Mr. Kellner was born in Port Washington, Wisconsin on May 6, 1946; he graduated Grafton High School in 1964; earned his BBA in Finance, Investment and Banking at the University of Wisconsin School of Business in 1969; and participated in the Brittingham Scholar program at Oslo University in 1969. He served as Vice President and Research Analyst for Brittingham, Inc. of Wilmington, Delaware, from 1969-1973; and as Vice President of Milwaukee-based Nicholas Company, Inc., from 1973-1980.
The Cedarburg-Grafton Rotary Club is hosting the Ozaukee County Mixer on Thursday, September 28 from 5:00 - 7:30 pm at the Peter Wollner American Legion in Cedarburg. They need a head count for food. Even though this is a free event, they need to collect RSVP's. You can register here or by clicking on the photo below.
Angelica and her boyfriend Zach joined Captain Jenne at the Milwaukee Community Sailing Center for an evening sail. This experience will be a highly sought-after auction item at Fall Into Comedy! ⛵️
Members of the Veterans Affairs Committee volunteered at the Project 22 event at the Harley-Davidson Museum on Sunday, September 17. The event was hosted by the Military and Veterans Resource Center at UWM. For more information about Project 22, click here.
You are invited to join us on a one-of-a-kind trip to Rotary Headquarters, the Paul Harris Home, and Mt. Hope Cemetery. We depart at 8:00 AM on Friday, November 3 and return by 6:30 PM. The trip is $125/person and includes lunch and snacks. Contact Jenne for a ticket order form. We are extending the invitation to TM Rotarians first. If the trip does not fill up, we will open registration to all Ozaukee County Rotary Clubs.
We had a wonderful time at Family Night 2023! Thanks to Chef Sandy and his cooking crew of Jean, Stan L, John R, Greg, Oliver, Shelley, Tim, and Jenne. Thanks to Ellen and Christine for the amazing appetizers. Ellen brought her magical desserts. Thanks to Russ for providing the speaker, music, and microphone. Thanks to Nancy for the tablecloths. We had award-winning brandy old-fashioneds provided by Tim V! What a fabulous night! Thanks to all who attended.
We are building a TMR Team to participate in Mel’s Charities Fun Run/Walk. Contact Jenne to be a part of our team. The event takes place on Saturday, September 23 at 8:00 AM and includes a pancake breakfast.
Congratulations to President-elect Tyler Briggs - Paul Harris Plus One! The presentation of a Paul Harris Fellow recognition is The Rotary Foundation’s way of expressing its appreciation for a substantial contribution to its humanitarian and educational programs. The recognition is named after Rotary’s founder, the late Paul Harris, a Chicago lawyer, who started Rotary with three business associates in 1905. A world of goodwill and better understanding comes closer to reality today because Tyler Briggs has made a substantial gift to The Rotary Foundation and a Paul Harris Fellow recognition may be presented. In being named a Paul Harris Fellow, Tyler joins a remarkable company of people throughout the world, all recognized for their commitment to Service Above Self to benefit local and international communities. We congratulate you Tyler, and thank you for your commitment to Rotary’s common goals of world understanding and peace.
Congratulations Tyler Briggs - Paul Harris Plus One
The Ozaukee County Rotary Mixer is approaching quickly. The event is on Thursday, September 28. Our host is the Cedarburg-Grafton Rotary Club. To register, click here:
On Tuesday, August 15 our speaker will be District Governor Don Griffing. He will be accompanied by the assistant District Governor Terry Schacht.
Don Griffing is a project management and process improvement expert drawing up a 32-year career in Information Technology as a software developer. In 2002, he founded his own company focused on cloud-based applications. From jet engines to travel apps, and media to fleet maintenance, Don’s extensive experience enables him to identify problems and create solutions that better the people, causes, and communities he serves.
Don received a B.S. in Computer Science from the University of Minnesota, College of Science and Engineering, and an M.S. in Software Engineering from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota. Passionate about learning and teaching others, Don was an adjunct instructor and frequent presenter on technology. He previously volunteered with TEALS -- Microsoft Philanthropies program to help build and grow sustainable computer science programs in high schools across the US and British Columbia, Canada – and was a volunteer in the Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central Wisconsin Mentor 2.0 program.
Don became a Rotarian in 2007 after years as a Rotary “Andy” in support of his wife, Marjorie, a Past Club President of the Rotary Club of St. Paul #10. Since 2007, Don has been an active Rotarian in four clubs and five districts serving in a variety of roles including Committee Chairs, Club President, District Technology Chair, and Assistant District Trainer. Don was an early adopter eClubs and is a leader in leveraging technology to keep Rotarians engaged to sustain the good work they do.
Don and his wife Marj are Major Donors to The Rotary Foundation. They live in Oshkosh, Wisconsin with their two cats overlooking Lake Butte des Mort.
Tuesday, August 15 Speaker - District Governor Don Griffing
Andrew Nerbun was elected as Mequon’s 12thmayor 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.
Taste of Mequon is quickly approaching and we need volunteers. The event is Saturday, September 9 from 12 PM - 9 PM. You can sign up here or click to sign up on the logo below.
Presented by the Southeastern Wisconsin Veteran Suicide Prevention Taskforce
Veteran-centered music series wraps up second season
MLWAUKEE — A free, family-friendly outdoor music series in support of veterans will wrap up its second season on Wednesday, Aug. 9, at Milwaukee’s lakefront.
“Music in the Garden” will be 6-8 p.m. at the War Memorial Center, 750 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive, featuring music from the band Tonight Only.
Presented by the Southeastern Wisconsin Veteran Suicide Prevention Task Force the series takes place in the newly renovated War Memorial Beer Garden, northeast of the War Memorial building.
Food and drinks from Kegel’s Inn will be available for purchase. No outside food or drink is allowed. Parking is free with a purchase from the beer garden.
In addition to music and refreshments, the event includes information and resources for veterans and their families.
“‘Music in the Garden’ continues to be a fun, casual venue for Veterans and their families to come together,” said Dona Drew, co-chairwoman of the Task Force. “Veterans have been connecting with other Veterans as well as with valuable resources available to them. And the music, food and drink have been excellent.”
Tonight Only features a mix of blues, classic rock and other favorites from the 1960s to the present.
Music in the Garden - August 9 at the War Memorial
The presentation of a Paul Harris Fellow recognition is The Rotary Foundation’s way of expressing its appreciation for a substantial contribution to its humanitarian and educational programs. The recognition is named after Rotary’s founder, the late Paul Harris, a Chicago lawyer, who started Rotary with three business associates in 1905. A world of goodwill and better understanding comes closer to reality today because Todd Davis has made a substantial gift to The Rotary Foundation and a Paul Harris Fellow recognition may be presented. In being named a Paul Harris Fellow, Todd joins a remarkable company of people throughout the world, all recognized for their commitment to Service Above Self to benefit local and international communities. We congratulate you Todd, and thank you for your commitment to Rotary’s common goals of world understanding and peace.
Welcome to our newest member Richard Busalacchi! Richard is the MATC Regional Campus Executive Director. Richard will be joining the Vocational Service Committee. Welcome Richard!
The presentation of a Paul Harris Fellow recognition is The Rotary Foundation’s way of expressing its appreciation for a substantial contribution to its humanitarian and educational programs. The recognition is named after Rotary’s founder, the late Paul Harris, a Chicago lawyer, who started Rotary with three business associates in 1905. A world of goodwill and better understanding comes closer to reality today because Heather Mader has made a substantial gift to The Rotary Foundation and a Paul Harris Fellow recognition may be presented. In being named a Paul Harris Fellow, Heather Mader joins a remarkable company of people throughout the world, all recognized for their commitment to Service Above Self to benefit local and international communities. We congratulate you Heather, and thank you for your commitment to Rotary’s common goals of world understanding and peace.
We also thank you for the terrific job you are doing with the Summer Chef Series!
Congratulations Heather Mader - Paul Harris Plus One
We received gratitude from Balance for our recent donation via Facebook:
Did you know that Session 1 of this year's Children's Summer Rec program had 26 volunteers?!
Thanks to a generous donation from Thiensville-Mequon Rotary Club we were able to purchase t-shirts for all of our amazing volunteers. Without volunteers, this amazing camp for kids with intellectual and developmental disabilities would not be possible.
Volunteer shirts help make our volunteer buddies easy to spot in a crowd and help our kids stay safe at busy locations like the Milwaukee County Zoo.
We had a wonderful time at Changing of the Guard 2023. Congratulations to the new Board of Directors! We also honored Jim Counsellor with the Service Above Self Award and Jenne Hohn as Rotarian of the Year. The Honorary Paul Harris Award will be given at the first meeting in July.
The Mequon-Milwaukee Diversity Passport Rotary Club hosted their annual fund raiser on Saturday, June 10 - Global Fusion. The event featured amazing food, Hmong dancers, a silent auction, and a wonderful turnout of Rotary friends.
Be Bold. Be Proud. Be Experienced-Obsessed. Those are words Marty Brooks, president and CEO of one of downtown Milwaukee’s premiere destinations, the Wisconsin Center District (WCD), lives by and encourages colleagues to make their own.
Brooks joined the WCD in 2018. The WCD is a quasi-governmental special purpose district established by the state in 1994 to own and operate three venues in downtown Milwaukee: the Wisconsin Center, Miller High Life Theatre, and UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena. The WCD employs 80 full-time staff, 250 part-time staff, and is governed by a 17-member board of directors.
Brooks is currently overseeing a $456 million WCD expansion expected to be completed in spring of 2024, ahead of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee in July 2024. The expansion will bring the exposition hall to 300,000 contiguous square feet, doubling its current size, and allowing the convention center to host two large events simultaneously.
With the expansion comes a heavy focus on inclusion. Brooks has committed to a comprehensive DEI plan that maximizes the local workforce by utilizing an array of diverse businesses and trade workers.
Prior to coming to Milwaukee, Brooks had developed a career path with expertise in television, sports and entertainment venue management. Brooks served as the senior vice president and general manager of America’s Center Complex in St. Louis. During his tenure, Brooks secured A-list artists to perform at The Dome at America’s Center including Taylor Swift, the Rolling Stones, Beyoncé and U2. He also booked the first professional soccer match to play on natural grass indoors. Prior to that, Brooks was hired as executive vice president and general manager for the Scottrade Center, home of the St. Louis Blues Hockey Club. He oversaw a $79 million restoration of the Peabody Opera House adjacent to the Scottrade Center.
Brooks worked for Madison Square Garden for 22 years and held several positions in that time including senior vice president of programming and production for the MSG Network, president and executive producer of Miss Universe, and senior vice president and general manager of Madison Square Garden Connecticut where he oversaw the Hartford Civic Center, Rentschler Field and the business operations of the Hartford Wolf Pack, the American Hockey League affiliate of the New York Rangers.
Brooks currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Westown Association and VISIT Milwaukee.
We had a large group of Rotarians and friends in attendance at the Pillars of the Community Luncheon honoring our own Andrew Petzold. Congratulations Andrew!
SE WI Veteran Suicide Prevention Task Force is excited to present Music in the Garden Music Series again this summer (formally known as Live on the Plaza) from 1800-2000. The dates are as follows:
June 14th Band: Driving Buddies
July 12 Band: Inner Ally
August 9 Band: Tonight Only
Please attend this fun event for the whole family! The concert is held at Milwaukee’s Premier Lakefront Beer Garden-Kegel’s Beer garden located at the War Memorial Center. We had a great turn out last year and expect another great summer event!
Thanks to all of the Rotarians and friends who set up the Field of Flags on Thursday, May 25. Photo credits to Ellen MacFarlane, Roger Kirgues, and Jenne Hohn.
It takes a village to get the newsletter out! Thanks to Tim, Sam, and Jenne for stepping up while we continue to send healing thoughts and prayers to Russ. Look for the regular newsletter schedule to resume soon.
On Tuesday, June 6, Rotarian Andrew Petzold will be celebrated as a Pillar of the Community.
From the Mequon-Thiensville Community Foundation website:
The Mequon Thiensville Community Foundation (MTCF) is thrilled to announce that Andrew Petzold, President and CEO of Concord Development Company, is this year’s recipient of the Pillar of the Community Award. “Andrew’s dedication and commitment to the growth and development of the Mequon-Thiensville community is nothing short of extraordinary,” says MTCF president Lori Lorenz. “The impact he has had exemplifies what it means to be a Pillar of our Community.”
Andrew first became actively involved in the community in the 1990’s, pushing for a vision and strategic direction for Mequon. He was particularly instrumental in encouraging financial and medical organizations to establish locations in Mequon to help differentiate it from neighboring suburbs. Since that time, he has transformed the local landscape, soliciting businesses from all sectors to take root while helping existing businesses expand and thrive.
Jim Marshall, Chairman and Founder of Spectrum Investment Advisors, notes that Andrew was instrumental in finding the right parcel for his business and drove negotiations to purchase the one-acre site. He credits Andrew with the success of Spectrum. “Without this location, we wouldn’t be the business we are today.” Asked to describe Andrew, Jim didn’t hesitate. “Vision. Quality. Making a difference. Every one of his developments is an asset to the community. Mequon is lucky to have him.”
Similarly, Pastor Bob at Christ Church says Andrew was vital to their expansion, providing leadership and expertise throughout the process. “He expresses not only integrity and honesty, but more importantly, he embraces and lives out his faith by positively impacting the community. Andrew is a Christ follower who makes a difference.”
Andrew’s love of community is also evidenced by his commitment to local service organizations. He was a member of both the Chamber of Commerce and Thiensville-Mequon Rotary Club, serving as past president and chairing numerous committees for both organizations over the span of 18+ years. He also served on Mequon’s Economic Development Board, the Mequon Community Foundation and Ozaukee Economic Development. Indeed, the hats he has worn are too numerous to mention. However, what can’t be overlooked is Andrew’s selfless generosity. He is renowned for providing free consulting services, legal work, funding and technical assistance, all in an effort to enhance the community.
One highlight for Andrew was his role in bringing Kapco Park and the Chinooks to the Mequon lakefront. Part of the original ownership group, Andrew still takes great pride in knowing this unique community asset will provide joy and entertainment to families for generations to come.
We can also thank Andrew for helping to bring a landmark project to downtown Milwaukee. In 2011, then-Governor Scott Walker appointed him to the Bradley Center Sports and Entertainment Corporation (BCSEC) Board. As Vice-Chair, Andrew played a key role in successfully winding down operations at the Bradley Center while paving the way for the new Fiserv Forum. Although not a direct connection to Mequon-Thiensville, this new sports and entertainment arena has undoubtably elevated the city of Milwaukee, inspired tangential development, and is a benefit to us all.
Outside the real-estate and development world, Andrew can be found behind the wheel of a ski boat. When his daughter, Grace, decided to try water skiing a few years back, he had no idea her skill level would quickly rise to the national and world stage. Her passion prompted his involvement, and together they compete internationally — with dad in the driver’s seat, literally! They also host clinics and coach other water ski teams to help grow and give back to the sport they both love.
Andrew lives in Mequon with his wife, Wendy, of 30 years, and their goldendoodle, Annie. Together, they have two adult children.
On Tuesday, May 23, we welcomed Vince Vitrano. Vince is the host of Wisconsin's Morning News on Newsradio WTMJ.
Vince Vitrano is an Emmy award winning journalist and Host of Wisconsin’s Morning News, on Newsradio WTMJ in Milwaukee. Vince worked in television news as a producer, reporter and anchor for 26 years before moving to radio.
Vince’s work as a reporter and anchor have earned him numerous honors from the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association, Associated Press and the Milwaukee Press Club, as well as a 2015 Chicago Midwest Regional Emmy. He twice won Digital and Online Personality of the year honors from WBA in 2018 and 2020. Vince lead the way in social media for the Milwaukee market, pioneering the use of Twitter and Facebook as journalistic tools.
In 2022, Vince was inducted into the Dennis H. Alldridge Hall of Fame, honoring those who’ve made a significant impact on the mission of Special Olympics Wisconsin. During his nine years on the Board of Directors, Vince served as Chairman, Chair-Elect, and Secretary of the Board. He also served on the Board of Directors for The First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin. Vince continues his non-profit work in support of numerous causes, including the United Performing Arts Fund, for which he was awarded the Jack M. Burchill award recognizing, “significant contributions in the promotion of UPAF and the performing arts. Vince also proudly supports the MACC Fund, Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin, First Stage, USO, The Milwaukee Public Museum, and Greendale High School where his children attend.
Vince was born in Milwaukee and grew up in Wauwatosa, graduating from Tosa East High School. He has a degree in Communication from St. Norbert College in De Pere, Wisconsin. Vince's wife, Nicole, is originally from Cedarburg. The two are proud parents Ella, Max, and Olivia.
Congratulations to member Nancy Witte-Dycus. Nancy was honored by Thiensville Village President Van Mobley with a Proclamation of Appreciation on Tuesday, May 2. The proclamation acknowledges Nancy's retirement as owner of Fantasy Flowers and recognizes her service to the community. Thank you Nancy!
Dan Buttery provided the following information as a way to learn more about the Milwaukee War Memorial Center:
If you have not done so, please sign up to receive our eNews via our website. We cannot sign you up for privacy reasons, but we encourage you to sign up via this link: https://warmemorialcenter.org/newsletter/
At the bottom of the webpage, you will see our social media links. You can connect via those various sources.
On Tuesday, May 9 we welcome Dona Drew, LCSW, CSAC, ICS. Dona is theCommunity Engagement and Partnership Coordinator at the Zablocki VA Medical Center.
Dona Drew is a Wisconsin Native. After high school, she enlisted in the US Marine Corps for 4 years. She worked as a Field Communication Operator while stationed with the 3rd FSSG at Camp Kinser in Okinawa, Japan. She was then attached to Marine Corps Headquarters at Henderson Hall in Washington DC where she worked at the Pentagon and Navy Annex. She was among the first Women Marines to be allowed to work in this MOS (Military Occupational Specialty).
After Dona was honorably discharged from the Marine Corps, she received her Bachelor Degree in Social Work from George Mason University, Fairfax, VA. After graduation, she returned to WI and started working for ProHealth Care while she obtained her Master degree in Social Work at UW Milwaukee in 2010.
In 2013, she began her VA career as the lead social worker in the Women’s Program at the Domiciliary (6 week residential program). In February 2018, she was hired to create a new position of social worker/case manager in the outpatient Substance Use Clinic. In October 2020 Dona joined the Suicide Prevention Team. Currently, Dona is Community Engagement and Partnership Coordinator at the Milwaukee Zablocki Medical Center. She is the co-chair of the Southeastern Wisconsin Veteran Suicide Prevention Task Force and works closely with other partnerships in the Veteran community to end Veteran Suicide. She is passionate about Suicide Prevention and believes that we all have play an important role in ending suicides in our community.
Our speaker on Tuesday, May 2 is Daniel Buttery, President and CEO of the War Memorial Center.
Daniel W. Buttery is a Wisconsin native, growing up in Rio, WI. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point in 1994 with honors.
Dan first enlisted and then later commissioned as a US Army Engineer Officer in 1998, honored as OCS Class 39 President. He went on to become Company Commander of C-Company 724 Engineer Battalion in 2001. Dan’s deployments included German (Overseas Deployment for Training) 1998, Chontales, Nicaragua (Peace Keeping for Southern Commanded, USSOUTHCOM) 2001 - 2002, Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) 2003 – 2004 and the Republic of Korea Joint Operations 2006.
Dan’s combat engineer company successfully conducted 300 missions in Iraq from May 2003 – April 2004, covering all corners of the country. As a company commander, Dan was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for missions conducted in Iraq. Injuries sustained in country eventually ended his military service.
From 2015-17, Dan served as the Assistant Deputy Secretary for the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs in Madison, WI, where he was responsible for advancing pro-Veteran legislation in the State of Wisconsin.
Dan understands the sacrifices that members of the United States Armed Forces and their families give on a daily basis to maintain our freedom. For that, he works to serve these individuals and the charitable organizations that best serve our Veterans. Dan was the founder and now past President of the Board of Directors for Fisher House Wisconsin, Inc., a 100 percent volunteer appointment.
Dan is the President / CEO of the War Memorial Center in Milwaukee, a position he took on in January, 2020.
The Rotary President-elects of Ozaukee County have joined to collaborate, exchange ideas, and work to strengthen the reach of Rotary in our county. The next Mixer is in the works along with a county-wide Rotary project. Pictured from left: Dick Kinney, PE of M-T Sunrise Rotary, Joel Cencius, PE of Mequon-Milwaukee Diversity Passport Club, Jenne Hohn, PE of T-M Rotary, Michael Herbrand, PE of Cedarburg-Grafton Rotary, and Nate Wille, PE of Port Washington-Saukville Rotary.
We feature member Dr. Matt Joynt, Superintendent of Schools in the M-T School District on Tuesday, April 18.
Matthew Joynt began teaching in public education at Wilson Elementary School in the Mequon-Thiensville School District (MTSD) in 1999. Prior to being appointed to the position of superintendent of schools in the Mequon-Thiensville School District in July 2017, he has also served in other positions in the school district including assistant principal at the high school and as the assistant superintendent of educational services. This year is his 24th year in education and his 19th as an employee of the MTSD. Dr. Joynt holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a master's degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He earned a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 2019.
Matthew has extensive experience working to engage students, capitalizing on opportunities to embrace diversity, and facilitating change and continuous improvement efforts within educational organizations located in our metropolitan areas. It is his goal to improve school performance, ensuring high-quality teaching and a positive school culture that ensures academic growth and helps students embrace lifelong learning.
On Tuesday, April 11 we feature Traci Neuman and Brian Ewig, producers of My Wisconsin Backyard. A link to the program can be found here.
Traci’s backyard is Lake Michigan and spends as much of her time sailing on it as possible. She is also a year around cyclist, runner and still photographer. Her hope is to bring people together by introducing different opportunities to help everyone find their own outdoor passion. Her favorite part of the job is learning, sharing and making a difference in the community.
Traci grew up in Minnesota, received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Mass Communications from the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse and has a Certification in Broadcast Meteorology from Mississippi State University.
Prior to joining Milwaukee PBS in 2014, she spent over twenty years working as a multimedia journalist, photographer and editor at news stations in Wisconsin and Illinois.
Brian Ewig is a multimedia producer for Milwaukee PBS, and can most often be found in his garden. He developed his love of the outdoors at a young age fishing on Lake Michigan with his grandfather.
Brian grew up watching educational and outdoor programming on Milwaukee PBS, and feels grateful to be able to continue that same level of excellence in programming with the Telly award-winning web series My Wisconsin Backyard.
Congratulations to our most recent student of the month, Alexa Bremmer. We honored Alexa at our Tuesday meeting and she was accompanied by her parents, Patrick and Debbie Bremmer of Mequon.
Volunteering has been an important part of Alexa’s high school career. She donates her time to Gigi’s Playhouse (a down syndrome achievement center), tutors and helps with the Turkey Trot and Christmas tree lot. Alexa has also spent the last 2 years volunteering weekly at the Columbia St. Mary’s Hospital in Mequon, prepping patients for various procedures. She has also had the opportunity to shadow physicians in the operating room, which has further sparked her interest and passion to one day become a surgeon.
Alexa will be studying bio-medical engineering this fall at either the University of Wisconsin-Madison or Georgia Tech. Alexa, we thank you for your service above self!
Alexa is pictured above with her parents:
Patrick, Alexa (Student of the Month) and Debbie Bremmer
The photo above is part of the family that received the home we built.
The sign above reads:
The Rotary club of Antigua Guatemala delivers the Cayetana Echeverría nursery school to the children of Antigua for their benefit and as a permanent desire for their improvement.
February 1987
It was nice to see evidence of the "home grown" Rotary club as well as evidence of involvement from other Rotary clubs from the U.S.
This is a photo of some of the teens I traveled with; several "Interacts" from the high school and a "Rotaract" who is in college.
There is an active volcano near to where we stayed; an eruption in 2018 killed more than 100 people.
The photo of me on the hillside was taken on visits with the social worker. It shows some of the housing and how bags of dirt are used to create steps.
A few construction photos. We also spent time organizing donations to the library and much more time organizing clothing donations by gender and size so they were more readily available to staff members.
Capping a 30 year career in global event marketing & strategic planning (VP Production - GMR Marketing) & music instrument retail (multiple stores) combined with a 50 year run as a guitarist with 4 WAMIs and a Hall of Fame award, Jason now leads the WAMI (Wisconsin Area Music Industry) Board as President. The organization’s new website speaks clearly to the direction WAMI has taken. https://wami.org/. In addition, Jason is a Partner with Independent Studios (MKE premier post-production house) and Nariadyme Studios (recording studio) and a guitarist with the Elephonic, Semi-Twang, Bill Camplin, Plumb Loco, Sawyer Road & Post Turtles bands.
Jesse was born & Raised in Boise, Idaho and moved to MKE to attend MSOE. He started the CORE Consulting - Engineering Services Firm specializing in Recruitment, Product Design & Rapid Prototyping located in downtown Thiensville. He started the Thiensville Farmers Market in 2012, "the cheel" in 2014, "the baaree" in 2017 and the "Daily Taco & Cantina" in 2020. He is also a Board Member of WAMI & the Thiensville Business Association; Founder/Director/Volunteer – Thiensville Village Market and Founder/Director/Volunteer – Best Dam Blues Festival. Above all, he is a Proud Father & Husband!
Nathan Moldavsky was our most recent Student of the Month. His parents, David & Sara Moldavsky, also attended our meeting while we honored Nathan for his service above self. Nathan was selected for his commitment to serving his community and his school through his leadership and involvement with multiple service groups.
Nathan has utilized his passion and love for music to help serve the disability community. Nathan has been playing the piano since he was 6 years old. His freshman year he started a non-profit program called “Piano for Change” to spread awareness of the benefits of music for individuals with disabilities. He has organized multiple concerts and raised over $18,000 to fund programs for people with disabilities. Nathan plans to double major in psychology and neuroscience this fall. Nathan, we thank you for all that you do for your school and community!
Nathan is pictured above with his parents:
David, Nathan (Student of the Month) and Sara Moldavsky
Our speaker on Tuesday, March 21 is Sara Pashak. Sara Pashak currently serves as the President of the Board and Meal Site Ambassador for the Ozaukee Food Alliance. She is Associate Professor and Chair of the Political Science Department at UWM and resides in Port Washington with her husband, Don, and two awesome kids. She cannot imagine a life without service, though she wouldn't mind a nap.
Thiensville-Mequon Rotary is a proud sponsor of the National Honor Society Induction Ceremony at Homestead High School. President Maureen O'Leary-Guth gave the welcome address. 155 students were inducted into the society this year. Special thanks to Megan Borland for coordinating the event with the High School.
The time has come to participate in our annual TM Rotary March Madness non-Virtual Tournament. Everyone is encouraged to fill out as many brackets as they would like (5 recommended). Here's how it works.
The cost of entering is $20 per bracket. The proceeds will all be donated to the Rotary International Foundation at the end of the tournament with the lesser of all funds raised and $1,000 donated in the name of the winner. The lesser of the remaining funds and $500 will be donated in the name of the first runner up, and the lesser of the remaining funds and $250 will be donated in the name of the second runner up.
2. Print or download several copies of the attached bracket and manually fill them out. Email them to Sam (sazinger@olglawoffice.com) or drop them off at Sam's office (1251 W. Glen Oaks Lane, Mequon). Please do this as soon as possible, but not later than Wednesday evening.
3. Send Sam an email indicating you don't want to go through the hassle of filling out your own brackets, but want to participate. Let him know how many brackets you'd like him to randomly select for you, and he'll roll the dice on your behalf. Please do this as soon as possible, but not later than Wednesday evening.
A few extra things:
Please don't make Sam chase you down for money. You can write a check (payable to the Rotary Foundation), pay cash, or send money via Venmo to @Sam-Azinger. Money should be delivered by the end of the Tournament (but sooner would be preferred).
Feel free to share with your friends.
Even if you are not a member of the TM Rotary Club, you are welcome to participate. If you win and are not a member of the Club, the funds will be donated by the Club and points will be issued toward an honorary Paul Harris (unless you would like to dedicate a member whom the proceeds should be donated on their behalf). We'll cross that bridge if/when we get there. What's important to remember is that the proceeds will be donated within the TM Rotary Club. #RetainTheSamAzingerTrophy!
Rotarians spent a chilly Thursday afternoon viewing local inclusive playgrounds. The team of Jim Ott, Megan Borland, Sandy Custer, Kathleen Schneider, and Jenne Hohn met at Possibility Playground in Port Washington, All My Friends Playground in Grafton, and the All Children's Play Area in Menomonee Falls. Contact Jenne with the New Projects Committee if you are interested in participating in this project.
Rotarians were out and about to hear members Thiensville Village President Van Mobley and Superintendent of Schools Matt Joynt at the Mequon-Thiensville Chamber of Commerce State of the Community event. The event also featured Mayor Andrew Nerbun. The event was held at the Annex at Foxtown Brewery and sponsored by Concordia University.
Thanks to Maureen and her team at O'Leary-Guth Law Office for hosting our Fireside Chat. Ellen, Sandy, and Maureen gave a thorough history of Rotary and our club. It was an informative and engaging evening. Thanks to all who attended!
On Tuesday, March 14 we feature speaker Tracy Johnson. Tracy has served as CEO of CARW – the Commercial Association of REALTORS® Wisconsin since 2014. She has more than 25 years of association management and non-profit experience and has held roles as executive director for TEMPO Milwaukee; director of public affairs for the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra; and director of communications for an association of plumbing and mechanical contractors. Tracy spent several years with a global manufacturer, Bradley Corporation, as well as a local advocacy group, Partners Advancing Values in Education (PAVE). She has served on a number of volunteer and professional boards and committees, and is very involved in community organizations including Ascension Wisconsin, Downtown Milwaukee Rotary Club, VISIT Milwaukee, Public Policy Forum, TDA – Transportation Development Association, and Mobilise. Tracy holds a public relations degree and an executive MBA with a focus on international business, both from Marquette University. She has been recognized by the Business Journal as a Forty Under 40, “Woman of Influence” and Power Broker. Tracy is a West Allis native and enjoys running, golf, and watching Marquette and Bucks basketball. In 2020, she completed the US Chamber of Commerce IOM (Institute of Organizational Management) program and went on to earn the Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential from the American Society of Association Executives. Tracy also holds the RCE (REALTORS Certified Executive) designation from the National Association of REALTORS. In her community, Tracy serves as a member of the Mequon Economic Development Committee, Mequon Festivals Committee, and the Weyenberg Public Library Foundation Board. She is a frequent guest host and contributor on AM620 WTMJ. Tracy lives in Mequon with her husband Jim and sons Zachary (12) and Charlie (9), who both attend Lumen Christi Catholic School.
Tyler and Jenne had an awesome time at Rotary PETS. From training with the District Governor to networking with the incoming Presidents of Ozaukee County, to meeting new friends from District 6270 and beyond, it was an incredible weekend. Incoming International President Gordon McInally presented on Friday, offering his vision for Rotary 2023-24. The theme for the upcoming Rotary year is "Create Hope in the World." McInally's focus is mental health and well-being. The speech will soon be available and posted on our website. We look forward to the upcoming Rotary year!
On Tuesday, March 7 we welcome Teresa Coronado from the Milwaukee Community Sailing Center.
Teresa Coronado learned to sail scows on her grandfather's knee, and has been sailing all boats in all weathers ever since. She competed in the Race to Alaska in 2018, but has stuck to the Great Lakes for her racing adventures since then. Teresa is crew on Eclipse in the Milwaukee Bay Women’s Sailing Organization Monday-night racing series, and crew on Team Cattywampus in the MAST Friday night racing series. She currently sails a Sunfish, a Butterfly, and an old Capri 13 on Lake Michigan when she isn't chartering on Lake Superior or in the BVI. After joining the Milwaukee Community Sailing Center and learning about keelboats, she began sailing the loveable Ensign, too. Teresa’s certifications include: US Sailing Keelboat and US Sailing Keelboat Instructor certification; AED/CPR/First Aid Infant, Child, Adult, Red Cross certification; US Sailing Level 1 Instructor certification; US Sailing REACH instructor certification; US Sailing/US Powerboating Safe Powerboat Instructor. She also has a PhD in Early American Literature from the University of Oregon. Teresa currently serves as the Chair of the Lake Michigan Sail Race Federation Women’s Sailing committee, as a Board member of the Midwest Women’s Sailing Conference, and is the Outreach & Program Director of the Milwaukee Community Sailing Center.
Kola Alayande and Chuck Zamora led a Rotary Means Business event on Friday, February 24 at No Studios in Milwaukee. Group members promoted their businesses followed by a presentation on goal-setting led by internationally acclaimed speaker Zamora. No Studios is a unique community space founded by Academy Award winner and Wisconsin native John Ridley. Look for these events to be held every other month.
Join us at O'Leary-Guth Law Office for a Rotary Fireside Chat - RESCHEDULED DUE TO WEATHER TO MARCH 8Th
From Membership Director Jeff McLean: The focus of this event is a fireside chat for new members, but we would love to have as many club members join as possible for a lively discussion about Rotary, our club and how to get involved.
2022-23 Rotary International District 6270 Governor Mike Phillips
Mike grew up in Chicago, attended Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin where he lived from 1972- 1985, and has made West Bend his home since 1985. A Rotarian for over 15 years, Mike has served in numerous club and district positions, including president of West Bend Sunrise Rotary in 2013-14, and Assistant District Governor for Area D from 2017-2020. Outside of Rotary, Mike remains active in multiple businesses, enjoys spending time with his family and his dogs, and is a talented musician.
Our speaker on Tuesday, February 14 is new member Angelica Niemann.
Angelica Niemann is the inaugural Miss Wisconsin in the Miss Volunteer America Organization- an organization that empowers women through serving their communities. Angelica has worked for over a decade to accomplish her goal to compete at the national level. She represented Wisconsin last May where she earned the Interview Award making up 40% of the overall score. Angelica lives in the Mequon area and is the current Marketing Manager at Spectrum Investment Advisors.
On 25 January the 5 Ozaukee County clubs embraced this year’s theme “Imagine Rotary”, by coordinating the first of many “Rotary Mix & Mingle”events. This event was promoted and open to the public. Rotarians and guests had an opportunity to Meet-Network-Share Ideas. Each club president, or their representative shared some of their club’s recent projects and invited prospective and former members to visit a meeting, or future club event.
Mequon-Thiensville Sunrise member Cindy Shaffer was our host at her Spur 16 development’s Mequon Public Market and provided the 85+ guests with delicious small plates and beverages. Thiensville-Mequon Noon member PE Jenne Hohn was the cheerleader of this event and received press support and participation from many members of the other Oz Co Rotary clubs of Cedarburg- Grafton, Port Washington-Saukville, and Mequon-Milwaukee Diversity Passport.
Thanks to having this event listed on the D6270’s calendar we had guest appearances and announcements from DG Mike Phillips, Polio Society Chair Rob Bassett, Milwaukee RC’s International Chair Pat Cronin. There were also two members from the Elmbrook RC visiting to see how this type of Rotary networking event could be duplicated in their area. All in all, it was a very successful and enjoyable initial event and a great way for the Oz Co Rotary clubs to “Imagine Rotary”.
The Mequon-Thiensville Sunrise Rotary Club and the City of Mequon are excited to again partner for the third year offering a Luminary “Walk-In-The-Woods” at Pukaite Woods in Rotary Park. The event will take place on Saturday, February 18 from 5:30 P.M. - 8:30 P.M. The event is free to the public. The public restrooms will be open, and volunteers from the Rotary Club will be serving hot cocoa, cider, and coffee with bonfire stations positioned throughout the park. Dogs are allowed but must be leashed.
Our speaker on Tuesday, February 7 is Jordan Luhr. Jordan Luhr has over twenty years of experience in non-profit human services driven by a passion to serve. Most recently Jordan was Executive Director at a social services agency for older adults, helping them maintain dignity and self-respect through enrichment programs, case management and day programming for those with dementia.
He also served as Vice President of Development and Public Relations at an agency providing youth with serious emotional, mental and behavioral health challenges, residential treatment, education, and outpatient services. Prior to committing to the non-profit sector, he had an extensive career in the corporate healthcare sector working in sales, marketing, and general management.
Jordan’s experience is complemented by a Bachelor’s degree from Marquette University, an MBA from the University of Maryland and a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from North Park University. Jordan is married to Renee and has five children and four grandchildren.
Our friends at the Mequon-Milwaukee Diversity Passport Rotary Club have invited us to attend their Health Awareness Event on Saturday, February 11 from 10 am - 12 pm. Bring your work-out gear! You can scan the QR code or click here to register.
Thanks to all who attended the first ever Ozaukee Rotary Mixer. We had 100 registrants and many requests to do the event quarterly! Sunrise Club member Cindy Shaffer was a fabulous host - thank you Cindy! Special thanks to our own Tim Vertz and the Vertz Marketing team for creating the flyer.
* Reminder - we meet at Thiensville Village Hall on Tuesday, January 17 *
Our speaker on January 17 will be Thiensville native Congressman Glenn Grothman.
Glenn Grothman is the congressman for Wisconsin’s 6th Congressional District. Grothman is currently serving his fourth term in Congress, having first been elected in 2014.
In the House of Representatives, Grothman serves on three committees, the House Committee on Education and Labor, the House Committee on Oversight and Reform, where he serves as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on National Security, and the House Committee on the Budget. Grothman's time in office has also been marked by his passionate advocacy for manufacturing, worker training, welfare reform, higher education reform, immigration reform, and pro-life causes. Grothman has also been recognized for his work to protect Medicare and Social Security by receiving the “Guardian of Seniors’ Rights” award.
Before serving in Congress, Grothman served as the Assistant Majority Leader in the Wisconsin State Senate where he worked on economic growth legislation and tax reform. Prior to his election to the state senate, Grothman served as a representative to the Wisconsin State Assembly for 10 years. He was also a practicing attorney in the areas of estate planning and probate and worked as a tax preparer.
Grothman earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in accounting and Juris Doctor from the University of Wisconsin - Madison. He graduated from Homestead High School near his home town of Thiensville, Wisconsin.
Grothman, 67, lives in the Town of Greenbush in Sheboygan County.
Our speaker on Tuesday, January 10 will be Bob Roden.
Bob Roden has been a part of the agriculture industry his entire life. His farming begin on his family farm in Saukville. Being the second oldest of ten children, in 1981 he purchased his own farm in Saukville. When he started on his own, he had 25 cows. The farm was close to the Village of Saukville and had limited land to allow for any expansion, so in 1995 he and his wife purchased a farm in the Town of Trenton. When they moved in 1995, they had 90 cows. Over the years, the farm has expanded and currently they milk over 900 cows in a new 40-stall rotary parlor.
In the 1980’s Bob experienced record high interest rates, as compared to recent years that were very low. He has seen some very tough times in the dairy industry, and also some of the best. He never gives up on being a farmer because he is passionate about it and truly enjoys the work.
Bob and his wife, Cindy, have 5 adult children and 17 grandkids. They, along with their son and Bob’s brother, own Roden Echo Valley, LLC. Bob is currently the Vice President of the Ozaukee County Farm Bureau and finds value in being an active member in the community.
Special thanks to our speaker Bob Tatterson, PhD, who spoke on Tuesday, January 3.
Bob is Founder and President of Xponential Ventures, a business and technology consulting firm and private investment vehicle. He was previously Vice President of Research and Development and Chief Technology Officer at Sealed Air Corporation and Brady Corporation. Earlier he held research and technology executive leadership positions at GE Plastics and General Electric. Bob earned an MS and Phd in chemical engineering from University of Michigan and a BS in Chemical Engineering from the Ohio State University. Bob lives in Mequon with his wife Kathy and two children and serves on several nonprofit boards and advisory councils. As a hands-on volunteer community leader, and former volunteer firefighter, he makes an impact through service to education, the environment, the arts and sciences.
For more information about Bob and XPonential Ventures, click here.
I became a member in 1978 shortly after moving my office from downtown Milwaukee to Mequon. Was encouraged to join by a business associate, George Colburn, who shortly thereafter earned the nick name "Chicken George" after serving the club under cooked chicken for lunch.
Didn't become very active until 1985, which was our club's 50th year and the fund raising and building of Mequon's Rotary Park commenced.. I soon realized and appreciated how much good a small group of people could do for their communities.
Have particularly enjoyed being involved for 25+- years with the Family Fun before the 4th's annual July 4th celebration, and with the assistance of Rotary Club members serving free ice cream and staffing the Corn Roast booth.
Have also enjoyed being involved with many of our clubs community benefiting activities. I recently had occasion to present to our club a Quote from Albert Einstein about life. "I believe in one thing - that only a life lived for others is a life worth living." Sounds like a good Rotary motto.
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(Mike Phillips is pictured on the right)
