Under Construction! Updated club; updated website! We are working on updating our website, to keep it more relevant for our members, guests, and community. Please stay tuned for changes that should have this site far more functional than it ever has been before! If you want to give some input or suggestions, feel free to email David at david.matthew.liss@gmail.com. |
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ImaBridge 2019-2020 Rotary District Grant
ImaBridge's 2019-2020 Rotary District 6440 Grant totalled $4,578 or 43.6% of ImaBridge’s Project Total Budget: $10,500.00. Huntly Rotary Club added $1,108 and the Rotary Club of McHenry added $3,470. .jpg) |
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2019 Paul Harris Fellows and Frank E Low Award
During a regular noon Rotary Club of McHenry meeting at Uprooted, Don Tonyan, Sr. (Co-Chair of the Blues, Brews and BBQ’s Committee and the Service Projects Committee, as well as 2019 recipient of the Frank E. Low Award) presents Phil Bartmann (Blues, Brews and BBQ’s Committee member, 1994 recipient of the Frank E. Low Award, and our Club’s Rotary Foundation Chair) with Phil's Paul Harris Fellow plus five pin. Don Tonyan, Sr. is also a Paul Harris Fellow. These four subjects (Rotary Club of McHenry, Blues, Brews and BBQ’s, the Frank E. Low Award, and Paul Harris Fellow) serve to manifest and deliver service to others and community leadership. |
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Home of the Sparrow
On December 20, 2018, the Rotary Club of McHenry presented a check to the Home of the Sparrow, thereby participating in their matched funding program. Our primary fundraising event is the annual Blues, Brews and BBQ’s held in late August of each year and with the 2019 BB&B scheduled for August 16, 17 and 18, 2019. Come to BB&B – have fun and give back to our shared community. |
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Pioneer Center for Human Services
On Friday, December 14, 2018, the Rotary Clubs of McHenry (Noon Lunch and Sunrise) co-funded the Annual Christmas Banquet for clients and staff of the Pioneer Center for Human Services. Pictured below is a check for $3,300 from the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc, representing the Rotary Club of McHenry’s donations to Pioneer Center for the Annual Autumn Stade’s Farm outing (Thursday, October 25, 2018), co-funding of the Christmas Banquet (Friday, December 14, 2018) and Pioneer Center’s McHenry County PADS program. Our primary fundraising event is the annual Blues, Brews and BBQ’s held in late August of each year, with the 2019 BB&B scheduled for August 16, 17 and 18, 2019. Come to BB&B – have fun and give back to our shared community. |
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Savannah Gunderson
On December 6, 2018 and having been positively influenced by the leadership talk given by Rick Metzger, Savannah Gunderson (a Johnsburg High School student and 2018 Rotary Youth Leadership Award recipient) shared with members of the Rotary Club of McHenry that she is trying to raise $2,500 to bring Rick Metzger to Johnsburg High School so as to share with all of JHS’ students Metzger’s message – how to develop and hold positive attitudes. If you or your business would like to assist Savannah in raising funds to achieve this for her fellow students, click here. |
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World Polio Day 2018
World Polio Day 2018 is Wednesday, October 24, 2018. Events are taking place throughout the World. Be part of this extraordinary achievement – End Polio Now. Your donation helps Rotary and its partners reach every child with the polio vaccine. Thanks to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, your contribution will be tripled, getting us even closer to a polio-free world. Mail your contribution to the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 28, McHenry, IL 60051, noting “End Polio Now”. If you prefer to donate online, click here. |
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Cynthia Wolf - New Member
The Rotary Club of McHenry is pleased to announce the induction of Cynthia Wolf as an Honorary Member. Our Constitution and Bylaws provide: “Persons who have distinguished themselves by meritorious service in the furtherance of Rotary ideals and those persons considered friends of Rotary for their support of Rotary’s cause may be elected to Honorary Membership in this Club.” Cynthia has manifested this in many ways far exceeding those required. Welcome Cyndi. |
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Liebman Science Center
Brian C. DiBona, Executive Director, Friends of McHenry County College Foundation, updated Members of the Rotary Club of McHenry regarding Liebman Science Center at McHenry County College. The Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. made a $3,000 donation to the associated capital campaign. Proceeds from Blues, Brews & BBQ’s are invested in our shared community in manners similar to this. Come enjoy Blues, Brews & BBQ’s this August 17, 2018, August 18, 2018, and August 19, 2018 – have fun while benefiting our community. |
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Induction of Officers for 2018-2019
The 2018 induction dinner of the Rotary Club of McHenry was held at the McHenry Country Club. Club President Denis Buch presided over the meeting and related festivities. William “Bill” McLemore (past District Governor of Rotary District 6880 (1998-1999) and current Member of the Rotary Club of McHenry) served as the officiant to swear in Club officers for the 2018-2019 fiscal year. The evening was solemn, yet full of fellowship, humor and good food. During this event our Club recognized the outstanding service of various Members, recognized new Paul Harris Fellows, installed new officers and Chairs of various Avenues of Service, and provided a moment to express appreciation and thanks. |
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ImaBridge Africa
On Thursday, June 7, 2018 at our regular Noon Club meeting at the McHenry VFW, ImaBridge Africa updated members of the Rotary Club of McHenry regarding its recent service trips to Nigeria. Rotarian and Founder of ImaBridge Africa Rev. Fr. Godwin Asuquo is reaching out to Clubs of fellow Rotarians. ImaBridge is encouraging collaboration and partnership with ImaBridge Africa in connection with its ongoing international projects in Nigeria. |
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Bob Blake and McHenry Villa
On Thursday, May 31, 2018 the Rotary Club of McHenry held its regular Club meeting at McHenry Villa. Club Member Bob Blake is a resident at McHenry Villa; we held our meeting there to facilitate Bob’s participation. We also presented Bob with an award expressing our appreciation for Bob’s more than 63 years of dedication and service to the Rotary Club of McHenry and the communities we serve. |
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FISH and Twisted Limits Escape Rooms
On May 24, 2018, John Meyer from "Friends in Service Here" (FISH of McHenry – Food Pantry) our local food pantry presented FISH to Members of Rotary Club of McHenry. FISH makes food available to those who need it. Members learned that FISH has no paid employees; rather, everyone at FISH is a volunteer, even its three directors. Members also learned that for every $1 donated to FISH, FISH is able to procure $8 of food for distribution through its food pantry.
On May 17, 2018, each of the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. and Twisted Limits Escape Rooms presented checks to FISH. |
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RYLA 2018 Johnsburg, Marian and McHenry
Each year the Rotary Club of McHenry and the Rotary Club of McHenry–Sunrise offer Rotary Youth Leadership Awards to high school students who exhibit leadership qualities. Generally, three students from each of McHenry Community High School – East, McHenry Community High School – West, and Johnsburg High School are selected to attend a weekend of leadership training. |
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Family Health Partnership Clinic
On May 3, 2018, the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. donated $2,500 to the Family Health Partnership Clinic. This donation to will supply 106 diabetic patients with the testing supplies they need to check their blood sugar levels. Knowing blood sugar levels allows patients to monitor their health and keep it in normal range. Without these testing supplies, patients would be taking a risk that could adversely affect their lives. |
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Johnsburg, Marian & McHenry Advanced Placement Testing
One of the focuses of the Rotary Club of McHenry and the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. is on the Youth of our community who are intelligent, motivated, and ambitious – yet lack adequate resources to pursue their full potential. Historically we funded scholarships. We have shifted away from scholarship after learning that the current cost of post-secondary education is so high and the funding application process such that our historical approach often did not help students as much as it had. Moreover, it often served to reduce funding from other sources as a result of the current student aid application process. While we still fund scholarships for students these are now often in connection with Vocational post-secondary programs. |
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McHenry High School District 156 - AP Testing.jpg)
On April 5, 2018 during the regular Thursday, Noon meeting of the Rotary Club of McHenry at the McHenry VFW, the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. presented the McHenry High School District 156 with a check for $4,081 to help finance the cost of Advanced Placement Tests for 58 students in School District 156 (who are taking 93 AP tests); these students also qualify for free/reduced lunch. This may save students approximately $209,000 is college cost. |
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County Board Chair Jack D. Franks
On Thursday March 22, 2018, Jack Franks spoke to the Rotary Club of McHenry at our regular Noon meeting at the VFW in McHenry. The first elected McHenry County Board Chair shared the County Board’s general objectives as well as an impressive progress report regarding the bipartisan achievements of the County Board. Among the many objectives of the County Board was the overall goal of reducing real estate taxes. The County Board has achieved results exceeding their original goal of a 10 percent reduction, but the overall taxes on real estate include other taxes including those which support education. |
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McHenry St Patrick's Day Parade
The Rotary Club of McHenry participated in the McHenry Saint Patrick’s Day Parade. Fox River was dyed green. Following the Parade, members of the Rotary Club of McHenry volunteered to assist the City (and others) with festivities at McHenry ShamRocks the Fox at 1202 N Riverside Dr., McHenry. |
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Shamrockin - McHenry Township Senior Center
More than a dozen Members of the Rotary Club of McHenry served a St. Patrick’s Day corned beef and cabbage lunch with all the Irish fixings to McHenry Township Seniors at their SHAMROCKIN celebration on Thursday March 15, 2018 at the McHenry VFW. Following lunch, Mike Knauf and the Nippersink Rouge Trio preformed a diverse blend of traditional Irish vocal and instrumental music. |
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Lake County Center for Independent Living
Jenny Farley, the Youth and Vocational Services Supervisor for the Lake County Center for Independent Living (a not-for-profit, grassroots, advocacy, service and resource organization for people with disabilities) spoke to members of the Rotary Club of McHenry. Their philosophy is that people with disabilities have both the right and the responsibility to direct their own lives and pursue their own personal goals. Their mission is "to empower people with disabilities to lead self-directed lives as valued members of the community." Jenny Farley described the many and diverse programs offered by her organization. |
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Senior Services Associates
Leslie Edstrom (Director of Marketing and Fund Development, Senior Services Associates for Kane, Kendall, and McHenry Counties) spoke at our regular Rotary Club of McHenry meeting on March 1, 2018. She noted that this agency has been serving older adults, persons with disabilities, and their families since 1973. As she began, Leslie noted "We consider ourselves a 'One Stop Shop'”. She went on to say that their office has information for the public regarding just about every aspect and resource that is available in the area and can make referrals as well. |
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Rotary District 6440 Governor Don Brewer
Rotary District 6440 Governor (2017-2018) Don Brewer visited our Club. Prior to our regular Club meeting, Don led discussion during our Club Board meeting. (Pictured from left to right are: Mrs Don Brewer, Tony Huemann, Ron Newman, John Halbleib, Tom Webb, Cheryden Juergensen, Don Brewer, Dawn Cassidy-Turner, Denis Buch and Phil Bartmann.  |
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Habitat for Humanity
At the February 8, 2018 regular Thursday Noon meeting of the Rotary Club of McHenry, Holly Zissman (Director of Development for Habitat for Humanity of McHenry County (HFHMC)) and Alyssa Wilbourn (Volunteer Coordinator) reviewed HFHMC’s vision, what it does and how its programs work (e.g., Home Ownership, Critical Home Repair, and Veteran Repairs), the roles of ReStore, Volunteers, Sponsors and Donators, a brief history (with a few pictures of its projects) and overview of the excellent impact HFHMC has had in McHenry County, and how one can get involved. To see their presentation, click here. |
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Annual Meeting of Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation
Foundation Annual Meeting Each Fiscal Year the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc has an annual meeting of its Members. Last year it was on December 22, 2016. The Rotary Club of McHenry holiday activities dominated December 2017; the Annual Meeting of members was scheduled for January 18, 2018. Ron Bykowski, Chairman of the Board, began the meeting and, following a reading of the Minutes from the last Annual Meeting, provided a report. Chair Bykowski reported as follows:
Foundation funds in its Benefits Account are not reflected in these numbers. The Foundation’s investments have achieved excellent returns, averaging 17.56% over the last year. |
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DECA Chapter - Johnsburg High School
On January 11, 2018, Johnsburg High School Business Teacher and DECA Sponsor Terri Szramek introduced three seniors from this year’s JHS DECA team. They presented DECA’s "Ringwood Rocket 5K", which represents a community wide effort led by DECA students to raise funds for two Johnsburg teachers, Andy and Kim Reinhard (and their family). The Reinhards, parents of three young children, suffered extensive and unexpected medical bills. Proceeds from DECA’s efforts have helped to mitigate the Reinhards’ medical costs. |
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Ben Pohl - Distraction Related Accidents
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data, 37,461 lives were lost on U.S. roads in 2016, an increase of 5.6 percent from calendar year 2015. Although the overall rate increased, distraction-related deaths (3,450 fatalities) decreased by 2.2 percent. Ben Pohl survived a distraction related accident in March 1997. On Thursday, January 4, 2018, Ben Pohl presented his personal experience with "Distracted Driving" and its profound and lasting impact on his life (and those close to him). “As a driver, I was not distracted by a cell phone but rather from joking and laughing with four occupants in my car. This took my focus off driving and I crashed my car.” In March 1997, Ben was in a terrible crash in his 1973 VW while driving on Iowa’s I-80. In his VW Bug/Beetle were four of his best friends. Ben spent a month in a coma and then spent six months in painful rehabilitation; today he still has many physical challenges which were caused by his accident. He emphasized that other people in the car are at the top of the list of distractions, followed by cell phones, texting, reading books, seeking radio stations, and many other distractions from the major focus at hand for the driver – the safe operation of the vehicle. One of his video clips noted that: "The use of a cell phone while driving increases your chance of getting into a crash by 400%” Ben closed by saying that he is passionate about the issue and would like members to refer him to other groups to speak on the dangers of distracted driving. You can contact Ben at: ben@benpohlspeaks.com Pictured below from left to right are Ben Pohl and Tony Huemann (Club Member and Fire Chief – McHenry Township Fire Protection District)  |
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Dr Ashley N Winnen becomes a Paul Harris Fellow
On December 21, 2017 Dr. Ashley Newman Winnen became a Rotary International Paul Harris Fellow “in appreciation of tangible and significant assistance given for the furtherance of better understanding and friendly relations among peoples of the world.” Dr. Winnen is the daughter of Ron Newman, a member of the Rotary Club of McHenry and Chair of the Club’s Community Avenue of Service. |
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Pioneer Center - 2017 Christmas Lunch
On Thursday, December 21, 2017, the Rotary Club of McHenry co-funded and more than 20 members (together with family members and other volunteers) served Christmas lunch to our friends at the Pioneer Center. This event included a visit with Santa, caroling, socializing with our friends and lunch. Click here for additional pictures. |
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Rotarian Tree Planting in Johnsburg, McHenry, and Wonder Lake
Rotary International President 2017-18 Ian Riseley has asked every Rotarian to plant a tree in order to make a significant statement about the importance of building a sustainable environment and addressing climate change. The Rotary Club of McHenry has funded and planted more than 100 new trees in Johnsburg, McHenry, and Wonder Lake, IL. On Saturday, December 2, 2017, members of the Club and local community volunteers planted the Club’s trees in Johnsburg and Wonder Lake. Trees for the City of McHenry funded by the Club will be planted by employees of the City. Fifty trees were used to start a nursery for Johnsburg on the southwest corner of the Johnsburg Public Works property at 3200 N. Richmond Road, Johnsburg, IL. With the cooperation of Johnsburg Public Works, participants included Phil and Jan Bartmann, Mike Hein, Ed Hettermann (Johnsburg Village President), Fire Chief Tony Huemann, and Bill McLemore. Fifty trees were planted on Yacht Club Island in Wonder Lake. Ron Newmann, Tom Webb, and approximately eight others from the Wonder Lake Sportsmans Club (including Dennis Gallo, Jerry Graff (and two of his grandchildren – Abby Graff and her brother), Tony Musel, John Naatz, Mark Nichols, and Ken Shaleen). The Wonder Lake Sportsman’s Club had conducted an invasive brush-clearing project of Yacht Club Island on January 14th 2017. |
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Thank You BB&B Sponsors
On November 30, 2017, the Rotary Club of McHenry is expressing thanks for the tremendous support given to our Club – and in turn our community – over the past six years by the sponsors of Blues, Brews and BBQ. In addition to food, beverages, and other festivities, we are streaming a video thanking each sponsor. The video includes a clip from Blues, Brews and BBQ’s as well as one answering the question “What is Rotary”. To manifest the community benefits our sponsors have facilitated, the streamed video also displays various grant recipient logos, photos of checks delivered to recipients, as well as the numerous NW Herald stories in which these moments have been publicized. Here is the video - |
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McHenry County Sheriff's Office
On November 16, 2017 Tony Huemann, Program Chair, introduced the guest speakers, Chief Ricardo Pagan and Assistant Chief John Carlson of the McHenry County Sheriff's Office. Chief Pagan and Assistant Chief Carlson gave a complete overview of the scope of responsibility and operation of the McHenry County Sheriff's Office. At the end of their presentation, they answered questions. One area of discussion revolved around the opioid crisis in America (including its expansion to herione use), which is worsening. |
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FISH, Peterson Endowment and Club Foundation
The Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc (a Section 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization) presented a $1,750 check to Friends in Service Here or FISH. These funds arose from two sources through the Club's Foundation. A sum of $750 arose from the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation Chuck & Lois Peterson Endowment, which was established in 2012 by Chuck & Lois Peterson. An additional $1,000 came directly from the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, which represent primarily proceeds from it fundraiser Blues, Brews & BBQ.
"Friends in Service Here" (FISH of McHenry – Food Pantry) makes food available to those who need it. FISH has no paid employees; rather, everyone at FISH is a volunteer, even its directors. For every $1 donated to FISH, FISH is able to procure approximately $8 of food for distribution through its food pantry. Click here for the most recent FISH newsletter. In August & September 2017, FISH served 1,124 families or 3,605 individuals; the FISH team distributed more than 8,900 bags of food! |
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Home of the Sparrow, Peterson Endowment and Club Foundation
The Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc (a Section 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization) presented a $1,750 check to Home of the Sparrow (HOS), which is celebrating its 30th Anniversary. These funds arose from two sources through the Club's Foundation. A sum of $750 arose from the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation Chuck & Lois Peterson Endowment, which was established in 2012 by Chuck & Lois Peterson. An additional $1,000 came directly from the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, which represent primarily proceeds from it fundraiser Blues, Brews & BBQ. Their mission statement is “to provide Hope, Opportunity and Support that empowers women and children as they journey from homelessness to self-sufficiency.” The number of individuals served grows each year in keeping with increased needs. In 2011, HOS programs served 105 individuals; in 2012, that was 123; in 2013, HOS served 159 persons; in 2014, that number was 224 women and children, and during the 2015 fiscal year, 553 individuals found help through HOS programs. During the 2016 fiscal year, HOS again exceeded their goal by serving 831 individuals. |
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2017 Holiday Meals
On November 9, 2017, the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. (organizer of Blues, Brews & Barbeque) presented the McHenry Knights of Columbus, Council #1288, McHenry, IL with a check for Holiday Meals. This reinvestment in our shared community assists in funding Thanksgiving and Christmas meals for McHenry residents who during the Holiday Season might find themselves without sufficient means to partake in these important American traditions – Thanksgiving and Christmas. Through the net proceeds of Blues, Brews & Barbeque (and other similar events), those who participate in such community events (which are organized by the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. ) help to fund various investments back into our shared community and its citizens. |
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21st Century Dad - David Hirsch |
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Pioneer Center Annual Stade's Farm Outing - Update
Barb Swanson, Pioneer Center Director of Funding Development and Events, joined the Rotary Club of McHenry for lunch. She delivered a thank you card "From Your Friends at Pioneer Center", thanking the members of the Rotary Club of McHenry for our 2017 Pioneer Center Annual Stade's Farm Outing. On December 1, 2017 - Pioneer Center is having a Holiday Book Review at D'Andrea Banquets & Conference Center located at 4419 Northwest Hwy, Crystal Lake, Illinois 60014. On December 21, 2017 - Pioneer Center is having a Christmas luncheon. 2018 is the Pioneer Center for Human Service's 60th Anniversary. Click here to see the many benefits it delivers to our community. |
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ImaBridge Africa - Annual Benefit Dinner
On November 4, 2017, the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc presented a $2,000 donation to ImaBridge Africa at its Annual Benefit Dinner which was held at The Church Of Holy Apostles Fr. Sherry's Center. Rev. Father Godwin Nsikan-Ubom Asuquo (a Member of the Rotary Club of McHenry) is also Pastor of Saint Patrick Church in McHenry and a Founder of ImaBridge Africa. Those who participated in the Annual Benefit Dinner (and many others who could not be there in person) became pillars in the Bridge of Love to Africa organized by ImaBridge Africa. Proceeds from ImaBridge Africa’s annual benefit dinner support their efforts in providing for the poor and underprivileged in Nigeria. ImaBridge Africa works cooperatively with leadership at the grassroots level in Africa on priority development projects in health, economics, education, empowerment of women and social justice. Pictured below from left to right are Rev. Father Godwin Nsikan-Ubom Asuquo (a Member of the Rotary Club of McHenry), Ron Bykowski (Chair of the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc), Denis Buch (Club President), Christine Carrington (President of ImaBridge Africa), and Thomas Webb (Vice-Chair of the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc):  |
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Johnsburg Junior High School – ShelterBox USA – Update
Results from the Johnsburg Junior High School student Fall Dance and “Penny Wars” are in. Proceeds from these fundraisers will assist in USA Natural Disaster relief through the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. and ShelterBox USA. Members of JJHS’ 6th Grade won the Penny Wars, which raised more than $500. The Fall Dance (and other sources) raised nearly $1,600. Members of the JJHS Student Counsel used a check to share these excellent results with other students and staff. From left to right are student council members: Tommy Oeffling, Mei Macey, and Kiera Welch.  Adding to these excellent JJHS student and staff results, the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. is increasing the overall funding to assist in USA Natural Disaster relief. Pictured below from left to right are Eric Dohrmann (Club Vocational Service Chair, Assistant Principal – JJHS) and Don Tonyan Sr. (Club Co-Chair of the Blues, Brews & Barbecue Committee, Co-Chair of the Club’s Service Projects Committee) holding a check which reflects that the JJHS student and staff efforts have been further increased through matched funding by the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc.  |
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Pioneer Center Annual Stade's Farm Outing
On October 26, 2017 we had our annual Fall Farm Fest at Stade's Farm & Market with our friends at Pioneer Center. We and our friends enjoyed Stade's Farm & Market, donuts and cider, lunch, the petting zoo, hayrides and pumpkin picking, as well as other Stade's Farm attractions. Click here for pictures from our Club's October 26, 2017 outing with our guests from Pioneer Center. Here are pictures from numerous past Fall Farm Fests with our guests from Pioneer Center. Thank you to Vern Stade and his staff as well as our Pioneer Center guests. |
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Rotary Youth Programs
At our regular Rotary Club of McHenry meeting, Lyle Staab, District 6440 Governor Nominee Designate and member of the Rotary Club of Long Grove, Kildeer, Hawthorn Woods, talked about Rotary Youth Programs. Each year, Rotary connects thousands of young people to a global network of friendship, service, and action. As members of Rotaract or Interact clubs, they learn about "Service Above Self" and make a difference in communities at home and abroad. At RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) weekends, they learn skills that will help them succeed as community leaders and in life. And students on a Rotary Youth Exchange, whether a Long-Term year-long program or a Short-Term experience lasting four to eight weeks, learn a new language, discover another culture, and truly become global citizens. Each year, 500,000 young people participate in Rotary Youth Service programs worldwide. In Rotary District 6440, there are 2,146 Rotarians (of the more than 1.2 Million Rotarians worldwide from more than 33,000 Rotary clubs in over 200 countries and geographical areas) and more than 2,800 youth who participated in our Rotaract, Interact, RYLA, and Rotary Youth Exchange (plus at least a thousand more in other activities). Lyle’s presentation can be accessed by clicking here. Pictured below is Lyle Staab, District 6440 Governor Nominee Designate and member of the Rotary Club of Long Grove, Kildeer, Hawthorn Woods .jpg) |
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October 24, 2017 – World Polio Day.jpg)
Members of the Rotary Club of McHenry (serving the greater McHenry area) are among millions reaching out on World Polio Day, October 24th, 2017 to raise awareness, funds and support to end polio. A vaccine prevents this crippling and paralyzing disease that still threatens children in parts of our world today. Each of the City of McHenry and the Villages of Johnsburg, McCullom Lake, and Wonder Lake recently issued a proclamation supporting this campaign (click on the name of the City or Village to view its Proclamation); each has proclaimed Tuesday, October 24, 2017 “World Polio Day” in support of the global effort to eradicate polio. Members of the Rotary Club of McHenry request that residents in these communities likewise honor this day and become part of this historic event. Since Rotary and its partners launched the Global Polio Eradication Initiative nearly 30 years ago, the incidence of polio has plummeted by more than 99.9 percent, from about 350,000 cases a year to just 37 cases in 2016. Since 1985, Rotary members worldwide have contributed more than $1.7 billion in our effort to eradicate polio; this includes major sums from the Rotary Club of McHenry and separately from individual Members and other community residents. The global Initiative includes the World Health Organization, U.S. Centers for Disease Control, UNICEF, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and governments around the world. To sustain this progress and protect all children from polio, Rotary has committed to raising $50 million per year over the next three years. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will match Rotary’s commitment 2:1. Without full funding and political commitment, this paralyzing disease could return to previously polio-free countries, putting children everywhere at risk. So far only one disease, smallpox, has been eradicated by vaccines, saving approximately 5 million lives annually. Polio could be next. If you would like to participate in making a difference in the World that has only been achieved one other time (that is, the eradication of smallpox), consider making a tax deductible donation to the “Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc.” by sending your check to P.O. Box 28, McHenry, IL 60051, marked “EndPolioNOW”. Every dollar you donate becomes three dollars (with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation matching). Become part of this historic event – the eradication of polio. For information on the Rotary Club of McHenry, click here or go to www.McHenryRotary.org. We are also on Facebook. For more information, contact us at rotaryclubofmchenry@gmail.com |
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David Hirsch - 21 Century Dads |
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Jim Proebstle
Jim Proebstle’s first two novels have received outstanding reviews from readers and industry professionals. They have been recognized with awards from the Eric Hoffer Award, the Indie Book Award, and the International Book Award. He and his wife, Carole, live in Deer Park, IL and call northern Minnesota home for the summer months. Proebstle received his BA and MBA from Michigan State University and was honored as an outstanding alumni from the Eli Broad College of Business in 2001. He was fortunate enough to play on a National Championship football team in 1965 and earn academic honors. Jim and Carole are loyal Spartans. Today's presentation concerned Fatal Incident. Inspired by a true story of an Air Transport Command (ATC) aircraft disaster in Alaska in 1944, Fatal Incident reveals the dark secrets of a WW II conspiracy of how twenty U.S. military deaths have gone unsolved for over 66 years. Jim described the book and answered various questions - all without providing a single spoiler. Jim did provide various details of interest and . . . . From Left to Right are: Jim Proebstle and John Halbleib (Club President-Elect)
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An Update on The Affordable Care Act (Obamacare)
At our regular Thursday Noon meeting on October 5, 2017, Eric Birkenstein of Birkenstein Financial Associates presented An Update on The Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), a copy of which you can obtain by clicking here. The presentation was informative. Eric answered various questions, including questions regarding costs, coverage, Medicare, Medicaid, group versus individual coverage and etc. asked by individuals, business entrepreneurs, as well as representatives of municipal employers. Pictured below are (from left to right) Denis Buch (Club President) and Eric Birkenstein (of Birkenstein Financial Associates):  |
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USA Disaster Relief - ShelterBox USA
On Thursday, October 5, 2017, Denis Buch (Club President) presented Ross Spencer with a check payable to ShelterBox USA for USA Disaster Relief. These funds were derived from our recent Blues, Brews & Barbecue; our Club Members are considering sending additional funds to help address our current unprecedented USA disasters. Additional funds were received from participants in our Blues, Brews & Barbecue through a collection jar and such funds will be sent to ShelterBox USA. The students and staff at local Junior High Schools - Johnsburg Junior High School and McHenry Middle School - are raising funds to further address USA Disasters. Johnsburg McHenry From left to right are: Denis Buch (Club President) and Ross Spencer (Ross Spencer is a ShelterBox USA volunteer as well as a member and the Treasurer of the Rotary Club of Long Grove, Kildeer, and Hawthorn Woods) .JPG) |
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USA Natural Disaster Relief
USA Natural Disaster Relief - Update The United States is the middle of an unfortunate spate of natural disasters. In Florida, Texas and Puerto Rico the aftermath of Category 4 Atlantic Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria mark the first time two such hurricanes have devastated the United States in the same year; in the western United States dry conditions and extreme heat are causing widespread forest fires. If you would like to assist in the relief of these natural disasters, you can send tax deductible donations to the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. at P.O. Box 28, McHenry, IL 60051. Please note on your check “USA Natural Disaster Relief”. Our Foundation will forward your donations to assist those affected by such natural disasters. .jpg) |
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McHenry Township Emergency Warning System
At the regular Noon meeting of the Rotary Club of McHenry on September 27, 2017, Rudy Horist (Deputy Chief of Administration) of the McHenry Township Fire Protection District presented McHenry Township’s siren emergency warming system which now includes 13 sirens, including the three new McHenry Township Emergency Warning Sirens. The locations and range of the sirens can be found by clicking here and the recent addition of new sirens is discussed in the McHenry Township Spring 2017 Newsletter, which is available by clicking here. The McHenry Township Emergency Warning Sirens were not designed to be a warning device for people inside their homes. It was designed to warn people who are outside of their homes, away from radios or televisions, which may be broadcasting warnings. When you hear a siren – seek shelter! The siren indicates approaching severe storms capable of producing hazardous conditions. Pictured from left to right are Denis Buch (President of the Rotary Club of McHenry), Rudy Horist (Deputy Chief of Administration of MTFPD), Linda Willetts (Public Education Coordinator of MTFPD), and Steve Spraker (Deputy Chief of Operations of MTFPD) .jpg) |
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Illinois Senator Pamela Althoff
At our regular Thursday Noon meeting on September 21, 2017 at the McHenry VFW Fox River Post 4600 at 3002 IL-120, McHenry, IL 60051, Senator Pamela Althoff spoke to members of the Rotary Club of McHenry. Senator Althoff reviewed recent Illinois State actions mentioning both unpublicized achievements that were excellent, as well as compromises that were less than optimal but necessary to allow the State to move forward. Senator Althoff also answered a few questions. .jpg) |
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Johnsburg Junior High School - ShelterBox USA
On Tuesday, September 19, 2017, Eric Dohrmann (Vocational Service Chair of the Rotary Club of McHenry and Assistant Principal of Johnsburg Junior High School), Andy Reinhard (7th and 8th Grade) and Christine Laudadio (6th Grade) (JJHS Student Council sponsors), Denis Buch (Club President) and John Halbleib (Club President-Elect and Foundation Secretary) introduced the ShelterBox USA fundraisers to students and staff at the Johnsburg Junior High School. Eric Dohrmann briefly explained the Rotary Club of McHenry and introduced Denis Buch and John Halbleib. Denis and John explained Rotary, ShelterBox, and how to donate, presented visual displays relative to ShelterBox USA, showed a brief video, and answered student questions. Andy Reinhard and Christine Laudadio, Student Council sponsors, explained (1) the upcoming student Fall Dance, (2) the “Penny Wars” that will start soon in the JJHS café, and (3) that profits from the dance and all other donations will go to ShelterBox USA to assist in funding disaster relief for those affected by Hurricanes Irma and Harvey. From left to right are: John Halbleib (Club President-Elect, Foundation Secretary), Eric Dohrmann (Club Vocational Service Chair, Assistant Principal – JJHS), Denis Buch (Club President) .JPG) |
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McHenry Middle School - Rachel's Challenge
McHenry Middle School Principal Michael Glover writes: “This school year we are welcoming Rachel’s Challenge to bring a focus on kindness at our school and of course “Being Nice” to each other.” On September 14, 2017, the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. presented a check at the McHenry Middle School (Grades 6-8) in support of the McHenry School District 15’s Rachel’s Challenge – Promoting Acts of Kindness program. This program has been designed to address and reduce instances of “bullying”. The program seeks to empower students and staff to initiate a chain reaction of kindness and compassion, as well as encourage students to deliberately reach out to others with kindness”. The McHenry Middle School’s program seeks to address both in-person as well as “cyber” bullying. For more details regarding this program and the school’s bullying policy, click here . Pictured below from left to right are Principal Mike Glover, Denis Buch (Club President) and Don Tonyan Sr. (Co-Chair of the Blues, Brews & Barbecue Committee, Co-Chair of the Club’s Service Projects Committee) .JPG) |
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ShelterBox USA - Relief for Hurricanes Irma and Harvey
Rotary International and ShelterBox USA are partners providing disaster relief. The United States is the middle of an unfortunate spate of natural disasters. In Texas and Florida the aftermath of Category 4 Atlantic Hurricanes Irma and Harvey mark the first time two such hurricanes have devastated the United States in the same year. The Rotary Club of McHenry has encouraged local schools to help disaster relief through ShelterBox USA, which provides (among other relief) shelters within shelters. This assistance will be used to assist those in Florida affected by Hurricane Irma and those in Texas affected by Hurricane Harvey. Florida – Hurricane Irma Texas – Hurricane Harvey On Thursday, September 14, 2017 Denis Buch (Club President) and Don Tonyan Sr. (Co-Chair of the Blues, Brews & Barbecue Committee, Co-Chair of the Club’s Service Projects Committee) introduced the ShelterBox USA fundraiser to students and staff at the McHenry Middle School. Additional presentations are scheduled for additional schools in McHenry, Johnsburg and other nearby communities. If you would like to assist in the relief of these natural disasters, you can send tax deductible donations to the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. at P.O. Box 28, McHenry, IL 60051. Please note on your check “USA Natural Disaster Relief”. Our Foundation will forward your donations to assist those affected by such natural disasters. Pictured below (from left to right) are Don Tonyan Sr. (Co-Chair of the Blues, Brews & Barbecue Committee, Co-Chair of the Club’s Service Projects Committee) and Denis Buch (Club President) holding our check for $1,000 for ShelterBox USA manifesting our commitment to ShelterBox’s disaster relief for those in Florida affected by Hurricane Irma and Texas affected by Hurricane Harvey.  |
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McHELP and the McHenry County Community Foundation
On September 14, 2017, Executive Director Robin Doeden presented the McHenry County Community Foundation. Robin described numerous programs of the McHenry County Community Foundation. One of McHenry County Community Foundation's current projects shares similar goals with those sought by Rachel’s Challenge. It is called McHELP. For more information, click on the following links: To download the free APP, click on the link below applicable to your cell phone: Pictured below from left to right are Robin Doeden (Executive Director of McHenry County Community Foundation) and Denis Buch (Club President)  |
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2017 Blues, Brews and Barbecue - a great success
Thanks to the excellent levels of attendance at the Rotary Club of McHenry’s 2017 Blues, Brews & Barbecue, this fundraiser was a great success. Proceeds more than doubled those from 2016; these proceeds will be invested in our shared community (like the more than $150,000 the Rotary Club of McHenry has reinvested in our shared community over the last five years). See This is Us for details. We appreciate the excellent participation of our community. The Kansas City Barbecue Society competition was a great success. We had 36 teams competing and more than 40 judges and other individuals who officiated the competition. The results can be viewed by clicking here. The KCBS Representative estimated a public attendance of 10,000. Although this was our first, we received excellent reviews from the KCBS Representative; that is, in all of the eight categories to be evaluated, our first KCBS event received the highest “excellent” rating. .jpg) For additional pictures of the event, click here |
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McHenry School District 15’s STEM/STEAM Programs
McHenry School District 15’s Josh Reitz (Assistant Superintendent for Learning Service) and Brian Kilinski (Director of Human Resources) presented the District’s programs better known as “STEM” (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) and “STEAM” (which includes Arts). McHenry School District 15 is comprised of 8 schools (5 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, and 1 year-round elementary school) educating children in Kindergarten through Eighth Grade. Josh and Brian reviewed various attributes of the STEM/STEAM programs, including courses, facilities, technologies, and personnel. There is a great deal of excitement about the STEM program, which excitement is growing. STEAM includes emphasis on the Arts, which prompted a discussion regarding music and related programs. Pictured from left to right are Josh Reitz (Assistant Superintendent for Learning Services, McHenry School District 15), Denis Buch (Rotary Club of McHenry President), and Brian Kilinski (Director of Human Resources, McHenry School District 15). .jpg) |
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Blues Brews & BBQ's
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ShelterBox USA - Blues, Brews and Barbecue
In preparation for their presence at Blues, Brews, and Barbecue – August 18-20, 2017 at Petersen Park, McHenry, IL, Ross Spencer presented ShelterBox USA – “Right now, around 85 million people around the world have been made homeless by natural disaster and conflict. ShelterBox is working to change this.” There will be a booth at Blues, Brews, and Barbecue explaining Rotary, the impending eradication of Polio (only the second disease to be eradicated), and ShelterBox USA at the upcoming Blues, Brews and Barbecue – fun and entertainment which benefit our shared community. Come have fun listening to great music – all the while making the world a better place. Ross Spencer is a member and the Treasurer of the Rotary Club of Long Grove, Kildeer, and Hawthorn Woods. The proceeds from Blues, Brews and Barbecue go back into our shared community. You have fun and your fun benefits our shared community. The event sponsor is the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation. Your Rotary Club of McHenry has generated over $150,000 during the last five years — mostly through Blues, Brews and Barbecue. These numbers do not begin to value the countless hours Rotarians volunteer through numerous service projects. We have distributed more than $120,000 of such $150,000 to local community, vocational and youth service projects in the Greater McHenry, Illinois area, including but not limited to these Illinois, USA locations: Bull Valley, Johnsburg, McHenry, Prairie Grove, Ringwood, Spring Grove, Volo, and Wonder Lake. Some examples can be found by clicking on This is Us. Ross Spencer is pictured, below .JPG) |
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Newest Members
Newest Club Members Today, Members of the Rotary Club of McHenry welcomed Kelly Ann Johnson and Pastor Thomas E. Rogers Jr our newest members. Kelly Ann Johnson is a manager with the McHenry Savings Bank. Pastor Thomas E. Rogers, Jr recently became the pastor of Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, 404 N Green Street, McHenry IL 60050 and will be installed Saturday, August 12, 2017. Pastor Rogers is a Rotarian who is transferring from the Rotary Club of Woodstock to the Rotary Club of McHenry. The Club is pleased and honored to have Kelly Ann and Pastor Tom as Members of our Club. Pictured below from left to right are Pastor Thomas E. Rogers, Jr. (Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church), Kelly Ann Johnson (McHenry Savings Bank) and Club President Denis Buch (welcoming each of them as new Members) .JPG) |
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Donald and Rose Mary Weingart Charitable Endowment
Donald and Rose Mary Weingart Charitable Endowment Don Weingart died on July 13, 2017. He was predeceased by his beloved Rose Mary. To honor Don and Rose Mary, the “Donald and Rose Mary Weingart Charitable Endowment of the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation” has been established. Memorial donations may be made to the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 28, McHenry, IL 60051. Rotarian Walter Carey invited his business partner Don to join the Rotary Club of McHenry and Don join in November of 1963. Rotary became and remained his passion. Don served as Club President (1971-1972), a director on its Board, and in various other officer and committee positions. Don was a member for over 53 years and he remained a Rotarian until his death. He maintained a perfect attendance and led the Club in song and good spirit. Here we are at The Springs holding a regular weekly meeting with Don Weingart at the center of the meeting and having led us in song once again. He thoroughly enjoyed working on community projects. Don particularly enjoyed the Annual Rotary Ham Dinner which he was instrumental in organizing over the years. Don also served on the McHenry School Board for 12 years, was Parade Marshall for Fiesta Days and was awarded the "Keys" to the City of McHenry for his service to the community. Don Weingart and other Rotarians built numerous Club service projects throughout the greater McHenry and Johnsburg area. To list just a few, here are some examples: Rotary Park (located at the North East corner of 3rd Avenue and Waukegan Street in McHenry); several concession stands at McCracken Athletic Field; Petersen Park playground equipment (e.g., slides, & etc.); Fort McHenry Playground; Walsh Park (1202 N Green Street) and Harry Dean Memorial Park; more than three decades of scholarships for local residents of McHenry or Johnsburg who are pursuing post-secondary education; funding for various service projects such as McHenry Area Youth Commission; life alert systems for residents who might not otherwise be able to afford them (distributed through Centegra); and playground equipment for Pioneer Center residents; and etc. Internationally, the Rotary Club of McHenry funded (or co-funded) the eradication of Polio (now in its final stages), a fire engine truck for use in a remote area in South America, student computers for use in a school in a remote region of Central America. For more about Don as a Rotarian, visit This is Us. .jpg) |
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This is Us
Rotary Club of McHenry - We are People of action. We are social and fun, mysterious, and more. In 2017, our Club received an award recognizing excellent service to our Club. The Rotary Club of McHenry pursues five Avenues of Service as part of our Service Above Self. These Avenues of Service are Club, Community, International, Vocational and Youth. Club Service involves such Member actions as drive the successful of our Club. Club Service is funded by Member contributions and achieved through Member involvement. International Service comprises those Member activities as serve to advance international understanding, goodwill, and peace, as well as projects designed to help people in other lands. International Service is funded primarily through Member contributions and achieved through Member involvement. Some funding is achieved through funding received during the annual Bleus, Brews, and Barbecue festivities through a special booth setup for such purpose – such as Rotary Foundation, PolioPlus and ShelterBox. Here are some examples: The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International – which Foundation funds and sponsors a large volume of projects around the world, including the eradication of polio. The Rotary Foundation recently celebrated its Centennial. Members often fund the Rotary Foundation through individual contributions of $1,000 (or more) and thereby become “Paul Harris Fellows”. Here are some examples of funding of International Service through the Paul Harris program (listing is of recipient of award):
Other International Service projects include: The proceeds from Blues, Brews and Barbecue go back into our shared community. You have fun and your fun benefits our shared community. The event sponsor is the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation. Substantially all of such proceeds help fund our Community Service, Vocational Service and Youth Service in the Greater McHenry, Illinois area, including but not limited to these Illinois, USA locations: Bull Valley, Johnsburg, McHenry, Prairie Grove, Ringwood, Spring Grove, Volo, and Wonder Lake. Here are some examples: Community Service comprises varied efforts that Members make (sometimes in conjunction with others) to improve the quality of life of those who live within our Club’s community. As you review these examples, keep in mind that Vocational Service and Youth Service are simultaneously “Community Service”, described below.
Also, see Vocational and Youth, below Vocational Service promotes high ethical standards in businesses and professions, recognizing the worthiness of all dignified occupations, and fostering the ideal of service in the pursuit of all vocations. The role of Members includes conducting themselves and their businesses in accordance with Rotary’s principles and lending their vocational skills to Club-developed projects in order to address the issues and needs of society.
Youth or New Generations Service recognizes the positive change implemented by youth and young adults through leadership development activities, involvement in community and international service projects, and exchange programs that enrich and foster world peace and cultural understanding. |
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McHenry Township Fire Protection District Station 5
The regular Noon meeting on Thursday, July 13, 2017 included a special vocational presentation by Fire Chief Tony Huemann. At McHenry Township Fire Protection District Station 5, Fire Chief Huemann explained the organization and operation of the McHenry Township Fire Protection District. He also presented some of the details associated with the history, design, and construction of Station 5. Click here to see the Fire Chief’s presentation. The construction of Station 5 was completed on September 30, 2016, and it went into service on December 1, 2016. Average call response time has decreased nearly 14.2% to 4 minutes and 20 seconds. Formed in 1939, today the MTFPD provides Emergency Response Services to 56 square miles and approximately 65,000 residents residing in McHenry, Johnsburg, Lakemoor, McCullom Lake, Ringwood, Holiday Hills, and Bull Valley. The MTFPD operates 24 hours a day out of five stations with Paramedics and Firefighters. In addition, the MTFPD has a full-time Chief, 2 Deputy Chief's, 3 Battalion Chief's, and a Fire & Life Safety Educator, as well as a Fire Prevention Bureau Director. In addition, the MTFPD offers and/or lists numerous classes and programs relating to fire prevention, safety and health. “Our goal is to continue to operate with part-time personnel, find ways to become more efficient and fiscally responsible, and provide emergency services to the communities we protect.” For more, see the Annual Reports for the MTFPD, which can be found by clicking here. Pictured below is Fire Chief Tony Huemann (Rotary Club of McHenry President (2015-2016))  |
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Derik Morefield Joins the Rotary Club of McHenry
The Rotary Club of McHenry is pleased to announce that that Derik Morefield has become a member of our Club. Derik Morefield, MPA, ICMA-CM, is the City Administrator of the City of McHenry. Welcome Derik! Pictured below are Club President Denis Buch (left) welcoming Derik Morefield (right) to the Rotary Club of McHenry.  |
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Neighbors Food Pantry of Wonder Lake
The Food Trust funded and/or sponsored by Rotary Club of McHenry, Neighbors Food Pantry of Wonder Lake, and Northern Illinois Food Bank was a great success. Notwithstanding the 90 degree heat, organizing and distributing the food were more than 27 volunteers from the Rotary Club of McHenry, Neighbors Food Pantry of Wonder Lake, Northern Illinois Food Bank and other local residents (and not so local – thank you Felix Curtis). The Food Truck also served many participants. Nativity Lutheran Church made their facilities available. Many thanks to all! Charitable contributions like this are funded from the proceeds of fundraisers like Blues, Brews and Barbecue (August 18-20, 2017 in Petersen Park) through the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc., which funded the food truck through Neighbors Food Pantry of Wonder Lake and the Northern Illinois Food Bank. |
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Wonder Lake Food TruckThe Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. has funded a food truck through the Northern Illinois Food Bank. Members of the Rotary Club of McHenry (and other volunteers) will be distributing food on Thursday, July 6, 2017 between 4PM and 6PM at Nativity Lutheran Church, which is located at 3506 East Wonder Lake Road, Wonder Lake IL. The Neighbors Food Pantry of Wonder Lake regularly operates a food pantry in association with the Nativity Lutheran Church. Those who would like to volunteer should click here . Charitable contributions like this are funded from the proceeds of fundraisers like Blues, Brews and Barbecue (August 18-20, 2017 in Petersen Park). Below is a picture on another Rotary Club of McHenry sponsored Northern Illinois Food Bank food distribution – providing nutritious meals to those in need.  |
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Jerome & Ethel Buch Charitable Endowment
On June 29, 2017 Denis Buch (Owner of Boone Creek Cabinetry & Design) was inducted as President (2017-2018) of the Rotary Club of McHenry, by Rotary District 6440 Governor Donald Brewer of the Algonquin Rotary Club. District Governor Brewer also used the opportunity to induct other officers of the Rotary Club of McHenry. The night was highlighted by commemorating an event which occurred 62 years ago, and those that ensued thereafter. One of the founding members of the Rotary Club of McHenry in 1955 was Jerome Buch. Together with his wife Ethel and other members of the Club, the Club grew and many special traditions and achievements followed. Jerome Buch served as Club President during the 1964-1965 Year, and here we are a half-century later and his son is now President of the Club – a “first” for our Club where a father and a son have both served as Club President. Manifesting Jerome Buch’s nature as a true Rotarian, here are just some of Jerome’s achievements:
Jerome Buch and other Members of the Rotary Club of McHenry designed, funded (or co-funded) and built numerous Club service projects throughout the greater McHenry and Johnsburg area. To list just a few, here are some examples: Rotary Park (located at the North East corner of 3rd Avenue and Waukegan Street in McHenry); several concession stands at McCracken Athletic Field; Petersen Park playground equipment (e.g., slides, & etc.); Fort McHenry Playground; Walsh Park (1202 N Green Street) and Harry Dean Memorial Park; more than three decades of scholarships for local residents of McHenry or Johnsburg who are pursuing post-secondary education; funding for various service projects such as McHenry Area Youth Commission; life alert systems for residents who might not otherwise be able to afford them (distributed through Centegra); and playground equipment for Pioneer Center residents; and etc. Internationally, the Rotary Club of McHenry funded (or co-funded) the eradication of Polio (now in its final stages), a fire engine truck for use in a remote area in South America, student computers for use in a school in a remote region of Central America. To honor both his father and his mother, President Denis Buch established the “Jerome & Ethel Buch Charitable Endowment of the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation” effective (and funded on) the date Denis shared his father’s legacy of becoming President of the Club – June 29, 2017. Today, charitable contributions and service projects like those mentioned above are funded from the proceeds of fundraisers like Blues, Brews and Barbecue (August 18-20, 2017 in Petersen Park) through the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. (a 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization). Below are Denis Buch (President of the Rotary Club of McHenry 2017-2018) and his father Jerome Buch (President of the Rotary Club of McHenry 1964-1965, Founding Member, Perfect attendance for more than 40 years)
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Induction of New Officers
On June 29, 2017 Denis Buch (Owner of Boone Creek Cabinetry & Design) was inducted as President (2017-2018) of the Rotary Club of McHenry by Rotary District 6440 Governor Donald Brewer of the Algonquin Rotary Club. District Governor Brewer also used the opportunity to induct other officers of the Rotary Club of McHenry. Below from left to right are Rotary District 6440 Governor Donald Brewer, Denis Buch (Club President), Dawn Cassiday-Turner (Club Secretary, a Relationship Banker with American Community Bank & Trust, McHenry) and John Halbleib (Club President-Elect)  This Club meeting was presided over by Bill McLemore, then Club President (2016-2017) and now Club Past President. Bill thanked members of the Club for achieving an excellent year and for building momentum as we go into the next year. Bill issued more than a dozen certificates of “Presidential Commendation” expressing appreciation for their service in many capacities. Following Denis’ induction as President, Denis made a brief presentation (1) summarizing his recent trip to the June 10-14, 2017 Rotary International Convention in Atlanta; (2) described the extraordinary global momentum garnered in Atlanta to fund the $1.5 Billion dollars needed to finally eradicate Polio; (3) outlined certain overall goals and objectives for the Club and the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc.; and (4) made a $10,000 bequest to the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. honoring his father (a Founding Member of the Club) and mother, entitled the “Jerome & Ethel Buch Charitable Endowment of the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation”. As a team, Denis and his wife Michele attended the 2017 Rotary International Convention in Atlanta. There were numerous “breakout” sessions. So as to experience as much as possible, each attended and participated in as many as “breakout” sessions they could – each taking notes to share with the other. Below from left to right are Denis Buch and Michele Buch while attending the 2017 Rotary International Convention in Atlanta  Over 22,500 Rotarians were in attendance. There were presentations by many famous individuals who shared their personal Rotary Stories. The highlight was the initial main session at which Rotary International leaders outlined what it was going to take to completely eradicate Polio. They estimated that it was going to require $1.5 Billion over the next three years to complete the eradication of Polio, a global campaign begun by Rotary International in 1985. Within less than an hour and with the cooperation of numerous Rotary Groups in many Countries there were pledges of $1.25 Billion (including pledges from Rotary International, Canada, the U.S., the European World Health Organization, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (which pledged up to $300,000,000). Below from left to right are attendees of the 2017 Rotary International Convention in Atlanta, Georgia, Michele Buch, Mr & Mrs. John F. Germ (a member of the Rotary Club of Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA and 2016-2017 President of Rotary International), and Denis Buch (President of the Rotary Club of McHenry 2017-1028)  As an effective team, President Buch identified a number of shared goals designed to serve our shared community in an ever expanding and more effective manner. This requires individuals dedicated to service above self, acceptance of responsibilities in various offices, and as much funding as possible.
This will be achieved through teamwork and cooperation focused on the best interests of our shared community. |
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Rotary Club of McHenry - We are People of ActionMaking a difference! |
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City of McHenry, ILOn Thursday, June 22, 2017, Wayne S. Jett (Mayor of McHenry), Derik Morefield (McHenry’s City Administrator), and Doug Martin (McHenry’s Director of Economic Development) were guests of the Rotary Club of McHenry. Mayor Jett reviewed numerous City of McHenry initiatives designed to encourage economic development, increase employment and in other ways serve our community well. Mayor Jett, City Administrator Morefield, and Director Martin also answered questions from Members of the Rotary Club of McHenry. Pictured below is City of McHenry Mayor Wayne Jett .JPG) |
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Kansas City Barbeque Society BBQ Cook-OffWhen Ron Schrader is not teaching P.E. at Johnsburg Junior High School, throughout the Midwest Ron regularly competes in Kansas City Barbeque Society Sanctioned BBQ Cook-Offs. Ron was a guest of the Rotary Club of McHenry at our regular Thursday lunch meeting. The Club invited Ron to share his experience and advice as we develop this year’s KCBS BBQ Cook-Off at Blues, Brews and Barbecue August 18-20, 2017 in Petersen Park). Ron – thank you for helping us better plan an excellent experience for all competitors. Below, from left to right are Ron Schrader and Don Tonyan (Co-Chair of the Blues, Brews & Barbecue Committee). Don welcomes Ron, as Ron completed his application to compete in this year’s KCBS BBQ Cook-Off.  |
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Association for Individual DevelopmentOn Thursday, June 1, 2017, Wayne S. Jett (Mayor of McHenry) and Derik Morefield (McHenry’s City Administrator) were guests of the Rotary Club of McHenry. During this regular Club meeting, Lynn O'Shea (President/CEO of the Association for Individual Development (AID)) and Bob Zima (Director of AID-McHenry Behavioral Health Services) presented the Association for Individual Development. For 54 years AID has provided services to individuals who have developmental, physical and/or mental disabilities, those who have suffered a trauma or those at risk. AID’s service areas in McHenry County included Algonquin, Cary, Harvard (beginning on May 25, 2017), Huntley, McHenry and Woodstock (with plans for expansion). Bob Zima’s operates out of the McHenry Behavioral Health Services located at 5342 W. Elm Street, McHenry, IL 60050, Phone: 847.322.4591 (cell) or 847.931.2350. For AID’s 2016 Annual Report, click here. Pictured below (from left to right) are Derik Morefield (McHenry’s City Administrator) and Wayne S. Jett (Mayor of McHenry)  |
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2017 Blues, Brews & Barbecue NewsDon Tonyan on behalf of the Rotary Club of McHenry’s Blues, Brews & Barbecue Committee announced a number of exciting developments regarding the upcoming August 18 through August 20, 2017 Blues, Brews & Barbecue festival at Petersen Park, McHenry, IL:
Don Tonyan is pictured below as he presents an update regarding the Club's 2017 Blues, Brews & Barbecue festival August 18 through August 20, 2017 at Petersen Park, McHenry, IL  |
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RYLA 2017 McHenryEach year the Rotary Club of McHenry and the Rotary Club of McHenry–Sunrise offer Rotary Youth Leadership Awards to high school students who exhibit leadership qualities. Generally, three students from each of McHenry Community High School – East, McHenry Community High School – West, and Johnsburg High School are selected to attend a weekend of leadership training. At the Rotary Club of McHenry Noon meeting on May 18, 2017, Jeff Batt (RYLA coordinator and member of the Rotary Club of McHenry–Sunrise) and Amber Bowgren, Assistant Principal of McHenry Community High School – West, brought three Rotary Youth Leadership Award recipients who attended the RYLA weekend of leadership training. These included Breanna Banker, Denise Beyer, and Rowan Coon. Jeff Batt explained various aspects of the RYLA program. Each of the three students shared memorable aspects of their experience at the RYLA weekend of leadership training, as well as how each felt it helped them become more refined and effective leaders. As they continue their postsecondary education, each believed that the RYLA weekend of leadership training has provided meaningful preparation for future leadership. Assistant Principal Amber Bowgren shared how RYLA has positively impact students at her school. Pictured from left to right are Rotary Youth Leadership Award recipients Breanna Banker, Rowan Coon, Denise Beyer; Amber Bowgren (Assistant Principal of McHenry High School West Campus); and Jeff Batt (Member of the Rotary Club of McHenry - Sunrise)  |
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FISH and Twisted Limits Escape RoomsTo Members of the Rotary Club of McHenry, John Meyer from "Friends in Service Here" (FISH of McHenry – Food Pantry) presented a PowerPoint on our local FISH food pantry. FISH makes food available to those who need it. Members learned that FISH has no paid employees; rather, everyone at FISH is a volunteer, even its three directors. Members also learned that for every $1 donated to FISH, FISH is able to procure $8 of food for distribution through its food pantry.
Following John’s presentation, Keith Desmet (co-owner of Twisted Limits Escape Rooms) presented a $500 check to FISH; these funds will enable FISH to purchase $4,000 of food for distribution to those who need it. Twisted Limits is at 3735 W Elm Street in McHenry, IL.
Pictured from left to right: John Meyer (FISH of McHenry – Food Pantry), Keith Desmet (co-owner of Twisted Limits Escape Rooms), and Bill McLemore (President of Rotary Club of McHenry)
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Mayor of McHenryNewly elected Mayor Wayne Jett (Mayor of McHenry effective May 1, 2017) shared a meal with Members of the Rotary Club of McHenry. Sue Low invited Mayor Jett as her guest and introduced him to Members of the Rotary Club of McHenry. Sue was Mayor of McHenry from 2003 to April 30, 2017. She remains an active Member of the Rotary Club of McHenry. Many Members already knew Wayne and others enjoyed meeting him. Pictured below from left to right are McHenry Mayor Wayne Jett and retired McHenry Mayor Sue Low  |
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Family Health Partnership ClinicSuzanne Hoban, MPH, Executive Director of Family Health Partnership Clinic presented to the Rotary Club of McHenry various aspects of their program including their move from Woodstock to Crystal Lake (401 E. Congress, Crystal Lake, IL 60014), the recent addition of a dental clinic, health care for the homeless (in connection with which they have hired a nurse who has experience in this area). Their Vision is: “Over the next ten years, the Family Health Partnership Clinic will assure that the residents of the McHenry County area will enjoy the benefit of full access to high quality health care, regardless of the ability to pay. The Clinic operates on a sliding fee scale, although no patient is turned away due to inability to pay. At registration, patients will be asked to provide some proof of income. NOTE: Because all of the doctors and some of the nurses volunteer their time, hours when patients can be seen is limited. Appointments are necessary. Call the Clinic main phone number at 770.220.9300 to schedule an appointment.” Click here for a copy of their 2016 Annual Report Below is Suzanne Hoban, MPH, Executive Director of Family Health Partnership Clinic presenting aspects of their program.  |
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2017 Club Service AwardRotary District 6440 held an award ceremony on April 28, 2017. Generally, awards are determined based on the “Tier” to which a Rotary Clubs belongs. Here are the “Tiers”: “Tier awards are based on Club membership as of July 1, 2016
The Rotary Club of McHenry is in Tier II: 23-39 members. Awards are determined for each Rotary Avenue of Service, which include: Club, Community, International, Vocational and Youth. Generally, one Avenue of Service Award was given in each Tier for the best overall achievement in such Avenue of Service. Thus, for all Five Avenues of Service for the three Tiers there are a total of 15 Avenues of Service Awards for Rotary District 6440. Rotary District 6440 has approximately 71 Rotary Clubs. First, our Club and its Members earned the 2017 Club Service Award for Tier II: 23-39 Members. The Rotary District 6440 Club Service Award is awarded for the best overall achievement in Club Service/Club Administration, which includes such matters as:
Second, our Club also received the “End Polio Now – Challenge Award” for our contribution of at least $60 per Member. Congratulations to all Members of the Rotary Club of McHenry for these excellent achievements. Pictured below is Denis Buch (President-Elect) accepting the Club Service Award.  |
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Don Weingart Meeting - at The SpringsDon Weingart is one of the Founding Members of the Rotary Club of McHenry. Our Club was founded on April 12, 1955. Throughout our history, Don has been and continues to be an active Member. We usually begin each of our meetings with a song led by Don. Recently, Don has been at The Springs at Crystal Lake Rehabilitation Center. There is agreement that Don’s leadership in song is a tradition we all enjoy. Here we are at The Springs having our weekly meeting, once again led in song by Don. From left to right – Standing: John Halbleib, Mike Low, Phil Bartmann, Lori Lowe, Ron Newman, Tony Huemann, Denny Welter, Don Tonyan Sr., Tom Webb, Denis Buch, Bill McLemore, Ron Bykowski, Don Arvidson, Jim Vyduna, Diana Mark, and Dave Rolow; Seated: Bob Blake (a Founding Member), Don Weingart (a Founding Member) and Dorothy Arvidson; Front Row: Sue Conway Low, Donna Schaefer and Craig Adams  |
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Joshua Shefner and Blue MangoJoshua Shefner presented “Blue Mango” to the Rotary Club of McHenry. He is a student at the Milwaukee School of Engineering and recipient of the Thomas W. Davis Student Leadership Award. Josh is a civil engineering major and team leader of an eight student team from MSOE’s University Scholars honors program; this team participated in a yearlong project to design and build a solar food dehydrator for a rural village in Jamaica. They were asked by the Blue Mountain Project, a non-profit located in the Blue Mountains of Jamaica, to design technology to dehydrate an often unused crop in the region – mangoes. This team now refers to itself as the “Blue Mango”. In addition to designing and building the dehydrator, Blue Mango also created a business model and training program to teach local residents how to use the equipment. This project serves to improve the health, education and economy in the region. Josh is also a member of the successful MSOE student chapter of the American Society of Civil Engineers which in early April 2017 hosted the annual Great Lakes Region Student Conference. “Students from 19 universities participated, including Marquette, MSOE, Northwestern, Notre Dame, UW-Madison, UW-Milwaukee and others.” MSOE students organized the entire conference. The MSOE team achieved these awards: 5 – 1st place (including “1st place: Conference Overall”); 2 – 2nd place; and 1 – 3rd place. Josh graduated from McHenry High School - East Campus as a member of the Class of 2015. Pictured below from left to right are Josh Shefner and Terry Fitzgibbons (Club member, Associate Principal – McHenry Community High School District 156, McHenry High School, West Campus and Assistant Principal – McHenry High School, East Campus)  |
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FISH of McHenry Food Pantry & Twisted Limits Escape RoomsOn Thursday, April 6, 2017 the Rotary Club of McHenry and Twisted Limits Escape Rooms joined together for an excellent night of real-life escape adventures designed to challenge and excite our team as we raced the clock to decipher clues, and complete a series of puzzles. We are pleased to report that our sleuthing paid off. Twisted Limits is at 3735 W Elm Street in McHenry, IL This event also generated a contribution to FISH of McHenry Food Pantry by Joe Panek and Keith Desmet (owners of Twisted Limits) from the proceeds of this Rotary Club event. Joe and Keith, thank you for a fun and challenging evening, as well as your generous gift to FISH. Below (from left to right), Keith Desmet and Joe Panek present to Bill McLemore (Club President) a $500 check made out to “FISH”.  |
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Club Fun, Social Events & CommunityRotary Club of McHenry has been very social as a club while also combining “service above self” as we support our shared community. Here are some examples: In connection with our 2016 yearend Holiday Banquet, we encouraged Members to bring diapers for the Diaper Bank of Northern Illinois. Recently, Rev. Phyllis Mueller, Diaper Bank of Northern Illinois, wrote "Thank you McHenry Rotary Noon Club for helping us with Size 1s! You are spectacular!"  On March 12, 2017 Members of the Club marched in the McHenry Saint Patrick’s Day Parade, joined by family and friends who marched in the Parade with us.  On March 31, 2017 we enjoyed the company of Members, family and friends at Liquid Blues Ltd, 126 N Benton St # 2, Woodstock, IL 60098. On April 21, 2017, we enjoyed the company of Members, family and friends at D.C. Cobb's, 226 Main St, Woodstock, IL 60098. Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. is the organizer of Blues, Brews & Barbecue, which is scheduled at Petersen Park on August 18, 19 and 20, 2017. Learn more about Blues, Brews and Barbecue here or here, view a video and/or become a sponsor at or click here . Those interested in joining the Rotary Club of McHenry should let us know at RotaryClubofMcHenry@gMail.com Support our shared community, come to the August 18-20, 2017 Blues, Brews and Barbecue. |
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Everyday Hero – Rotary Club of McHenry Ron Bykowski
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Rotary Club of McHenry Vocational ScholarshipsPictured below (left to right) are Bill Brogan, Instructor – Criminal Justice, McHenry Community College, Scholarship recipients MCC Students Roberto J Lopez and Luke Leon, and Co-Chair of the Scholarship Committee, Rotarian Tom Webb.
 Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. is the organizer of Blues, Brews & Barbecue, which is scheduled at Petersen Park on August 18, 19 and 20, 2017. Those interested in joining the Rotary Club of McHenry should let us know at RotaryClubofMcHenry@gMail.com Support our shared community, come to the August 18-20, 2017 Blues, Brews and Barbecue. Learn more about Blues, Brews and Barbecue.
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The Land Conservancy of McHenry CountySarah Michehl presented The Land Conservancy of McHenry County to the Rotary Club of McHenry. As a local nonprofit, it mission is “To preserve natural, scenic and agricultural land resources in McHenry County by working with individuals, communities and a diversity of other partners.” As of 2016, TLC was 25 years old and had preserved over 2,100 acres in McHenry County. TLC is a member–supported nonprofit organization whose members and volunteers continue to preserve open space for future generations.
Pictured below is Sarah Michehl, Community Engagement Specialist, The Land Conservancy of McHenry County:
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Johnsburg High School Advanced PlacementJohnsburg High School is a public High School in Johnsburg, Illinois (Johnsburg School District 12). The Skyhawks are known for many great accomplishments such as playing in the recent Illinois State football championship game. Adding to their many accomplishments, the Skyhawks made the Advanced Placement® “honor roll” consisting of the 433 school districts in the United States of America and Canada. To do so the Skyhawks had to simultaneously achieve increases in access to Advanced Placement® courses for a broader number of students and also maintain or improve the rate at which their AP® students earned scores of 3 or higher on an AP Exam. A score of 3 or higher facilitates earning college credit and/or advanced placement in colleges and universities throughout the United States (and other countries).
Below, the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. presents a $1,000 to Johnsburg School District 12 for its Advanced Placement program. Pictured are (from left to right): Eric Dohrmann (Club Member and Assistant Principal of Johnsburg Junior High School), Thomas Haurum (Guidance Counselor at Johnsburg High School), Kevin Shelton (Principal of Johnsburg High School), Ron Bykowski (Chair of the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation), Jim Vyduna (Scholarship Committee Co-Chair (Academic)) and Tom Webb (Scholarship Committee Co-Chair (Vocational)).
 Those interested in joining the Rotary Club of McHenry should let us know at RotaryClubofMcHenry@gMail.com Support our shared community, come to the August 18-20, 2017 Blues, Brews and Barbecue. Learn more about Blues, Brews and Barbecue.
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McHenry Downtown Indoor TheaterRotary Club of McHenry member Don Tonyan presented plans for the new, expanded, renovated, and fully modernized downtown theater at 1208 North Green Street in McHenry (old address 1204 North Green), which had closed in 2014. Such project is being funded by Boone Creek Crossing LLC and has been approved by the McHenry City Council.
Don Tonyan also introduced Scott Dehn. Scott will be managing the new theater; he added ideas regarding its operation. Scott Dehn is Owner and President of both: Golden Age Cinemas, LLC and Golden Age Holdings, LLC. He owns and is successfully operating nearby movie theaters.
Pictured here from left to right are Scott Dehn and Don Tonyan:
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Happy Birthday Rotary
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Blues, Brews & Barbecue CommitteeThis hard-working committee and other Rotary Club of McHenry members work hard throughout the year to make Blues, Brews & BBQ a blast each August. Some key decisions were made at this recent meeting. Keep an eye out for exciting band, food, beverage, and BBQ contest news! Meanwhile, shout out to (from left) Donna Schaefer, Phil Sweeney, Lori Lowe, Diana Mark, Phil Bartmann and Don Tonyan. Thanks for your dedication to our fun!
Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. is the organizer of Blues, Brews & Barbecue, which is scheduled at Petersen Park on August 18, 19 and 20, 2017.
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Dawn Cassiday-TurnerDawn Cassiday-Turner presented her vocation as a "Relationship Banker" for the American Community Bank, McHenry, IL to the Rotary Club of McHenry. As a relationship banker, Dawn manages the American Community Bank’s overall financial services relationship with its customers.
Dawn studied at the University of Denver and then Columbia College, where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree. Dawn and her husband live in Spring Grove with their six children, along with a small menagerie of dogs, a cat and a couple of chickens. Dawn also coaches the first-ever McHenry Warriors Girls High School lacrosse team. She has also served on the National Ski Patrol for 5 years at Wilmot, as a member of the District 114 Board of Education for 6 years and on United Way’s allocation panel.
Dawn: “I strongly believe in volunteering and I’m thrilled to be a member of the Rotary to further serve our community!”
Pictured below is Dawn Cassiday-Turner
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Foundation Donation of $3,000 to the McHenry School District 156The Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. presented a check to the McHenry School District 156 for $3,000 in support of its Advanced Placement (AP) Program testing. AP courses and exams can help students earn college credit while still in high school and strengthen their college applications. In other words, high school students have the option of taking advanced placement college courses and if they test above a certain level, such students can earn college credit hours.
However, there are costs associated with the AP testing program. The Rotary Club of McHenry has provided grants to support such testing program at the McHenry School District 156. We believe this is an excellent investment in our community’s high school students.
Here is why: An AP test costs around $93, but could earn the student 3 college credit hours. Assuming an average student takes 15 college credit hours during a typical college semester and the average college tuition per year is $20,000, then our $3,000 donation could help to fund the equivalent of approximately 3 years of full time college. Here is the potential of such grant to the AP program. $3,000/$93 = 32.25 tests = 32.25 x 3 credit hours = 96.8 credit hours = 96.8 credit hours/30 credit hours per year = 3.2 years of college (spread across numerous students) = 3.2 years x $20,000 per year = $64,500 in saved tuition for such students. Note: if the students go to more expensive schools, the cost savings is higher. These are just approximate numbers, but they illustrate that the AP program can greatly benefit qualified students.
The largest fundraiser of the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. is Blues, Brews and Barbecue which is scheduled at Petersen Park on August 18, 19 and 20, 2017. The Rotary Club of McHenry and such Club’s Members formed the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. (an Illinois not for profit corporation which is also a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code) to fund ongoing charitable/service operations on a tax exempt basis and to ensure continued sustainability of the Club’s charitable/service operations. The Club and its Charitable Foundation develop, improve and maintain the cultural, recreational, economic, educational and social welfare of people in the greater McHenry area (and throughout the world).
Pictured (from left to right) are Ryan McTague (Dist 156 Superintendent), Maddie Weaver (AP student), Terry Fitzgibbons (standing in the second row, Associate Principal, West Campus), Jessica Long (AP student), Cole Petty (AP student), Tague Sode (AP student), Martha Potthoff (Principal), Bill McLemore (Club President), and Ron Bykowski (Foundation Chair)
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Knights of ColumbusOn February 3, 2017, the McHenry Knights of Columbus Councils 1288 and 16446 sent a “thank you” letter to the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. (organizer of Blues, Brews & Barbecue - which is scheduled at Petersen Park on August 18, 19 and 20, 2017) for its donation of $550. Holiday Meals Committee Chairman Charles J Caner wrote: “Your contribution helped make it possible to provide a valuable gift of food to families in need at Thanksgiving and Christmas. We provided over 825 meals during the 2016 event which has only been made possible because of thoughtful contributions from people like you. For Thanksgiving each meal contained a turkey and for Christmas each meal contained a ham. Many of these families expressed their gratitude and thankfulness for our help which we pass on to you.”
Pictured here at the November 3, 2016 check presentation are from left to right: Denis Buch (President-Elect of the Rotary Club of McHenry), Carl W. Smith (SK Grand Knight St Patrick Council 16446), and Ron Bykowski (Chairman of the Rotary Club of McHenry Foundation, Inc.).
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ImaBridge Africa 2017 Mission Trip to Nigeria
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Donation to the VFW Post 4600Pictured are members of the Rotary Club of McHenry presenting to VFW Post 4600 Commander Bob Lungren a Da-Lite Professional Fully Motorized Movie Screen donated by Ron and Linda Bykowski on behalf of the Rotary Club of McHenry. The large screen was expertly installed by club members Tom Webb, Don Tonyan and Denis Buch.
The Club's weekly lunch meeting is held at the VFW every Thursday at 12:00 Noon. Those interested in learning more about membership in the Rotary Club of McHenry are welcome to attend.
Pictured below from left to right are:
Back Row: Denis Buch (President-Elect), Donald Arvidson, Dawn Cassidy-Turner, Thomas Webb, Phil Sweeney, Michael Hein, Ron Newman
Front Row (Standing): John Halbleib, Phil Bartmann, William McLemore (President), Commander Bob Lungren (VFW), Ron Bykowski
Seated: Robert Blake, Donald Tonyan
The new screen is behind them.
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New Officers for 2017-2018 Fiscal YearToday, President-Elect Denis Buch (pictured below) announced the officers of the Rotary Club of McHenry for the July 1, 2017 to June 30, 2018 year. They were elected by the Members of the Club as follows: President – Denis Buch; President-Elect – John Halbleib; First Vice President – Rev. Michael Hein; Secretary – Dawn Cassidy-Turner; Treasurer – Cheryden Juergensen and Co-Sargent at Arms – Craig Adams and Tony Huemann
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Northern Illinois Food BankMorgan Abate, representing the Northern Illinois Food Bank presented “Hunger in America 2014 Study” (statistics regarding hunger), the Northern Illinois Food Bank’s McHenry County Snapshot regarding Poverty Statistics for McHenry County, and some of the ways You can help the Northern Illinois Food Bank help others.
Pictured below, Morgan Abate
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Habitat for Humanity of McHenry CountyOn January 12th, 2017 Barb Swanson, the Director of Development for Habitat for Humanity of McHenry County (HFHMC), presented some of the numerous programs offered to the community by HFHMC to the Rotary Club of McHenry. HFHMC is an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing organization. HFHMC strives both to change the systems that lead to poverty housing and to build communities where everyone can afford to live.
Pictured below, left to right, are Bill McLemore (President of the Rotary Club of McHenry) and Barb Swanson (Director of Development for Habitat for Humanity of McHenry County)
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Rotary Award for Humanitarian ServicesRev. Fr. Godwin Nsikan-Ubom Asuquo, Pastor of Saint Patrick Church in McHenry, is the recipient of the Rotary Award for Humanitarian services in connection with his efforts in forming and developing the ImaBridge Africa, USA, team. See his Founder’s Statement. More on I’m a Bridge. The ImaBridge Africa, USA, team has worked in supporting the people of Akwa Ibom State in areas of Healthcare, Provision of Clean Water, Education and Microfinance since its founding in 2008. Current efforts serve to provide relief and care for victims of a recent Church collapse.
Fr. Godwin Nsikan-Ubom Asuquo, Pastor of Saint Patrick Church, is also Pastor/Founding Director, ImaBridge Africa
.jpg) Pictured below from left to right are Chris Carrington, Vice President and Board member of I’m a Bridge Africa, as well as Father Godwin
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Craig M. AdamsRotary Club of McHenry welcomes its newest member, Craig M. Adams, McHenry Township Supervisor.
Craig is shown below (left) with his sponsor, Don Tonyan (on the right).
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Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable FoundationMerry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone!
Ron Bykowski, Chairman of the Rotary Club Foundation, headed the annual meeting of the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. His report (and that of other officers of the Foundation) reported excellent asset growth and return on investments, as well as very high levels of local grants and scholarships designed to benefit the greater McHenry area.
The Rotary Club of McHenry and such Club’s Members formed the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc. (an Illinois not for profit corporation which is also a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code) to fund ongoing charitable/service operations on a tax exempt basis and to ensure continued sustainability of the Club’s charitable/service operations. The Club and its Charitable Foundation develop, improve and maintain the cultural, recreational, economic, educational and social welfare of people in the greater McHenry area (and throughout the world).
The Foundation manages funding from the Club as well as various donor-directed endowments. The Foundation also receives contributions from the public and encourages larger gifts that are ordinarily made by way of estate planning strategies. These include, but are not limited to, cash donations; securities which have appreciated in value such that donation to the Club Foundation will give rise to tax advantages for the donor; life insurance policies which name the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation Inc. as a beneficiary; naming the Club Foundation as beneficiary of the donor's retirement account(s); and so on. Any and all such gifts may be named to give honor or recognition to a special person, donor, organization, or business entity in perpetuity. The Foundation’s largest fundraiser each year is the Blues, Brews and Barbecue, which is scheduled for Petersen Park on August 18, 19, and 20, 2017.
Ron Bykowski is pictured below
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Medical Cannabis in IllinoisKirsten Velasco presented Medical Cannabis in Illinois in which she covered the various medical conditions for which it has proved beneficial, patient experience, the science and biology relevant to its medical use, as well as the relevant laws and politics. Here is a link to the presentation. Here is their Facebook page.
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Rachel’s Challenge – Promoting Acts of KindnessKim McGann (Dean), Chelsea Baird (Assistant Principal), and Michael Glover (Principal) of McHenry Middle School (Grades 6-8) presented the school’s Rachel’s Challenge – Promoting Acts of Kindness program. This program has been designed to address and reduce instances of “bullying”. The program seeks to empower students and staff to initiate a chain reaction of kindness and compassion, as well as encourage students to deliberately reach out to others with kindness”. The McHenry Middle School’s program seeks to address both in-person as well as “cyber” bullying.
“Bullying” can be described as “unwanted, aggressive behavior among school aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated, or has the potential to be repeated, over time. Bullying includes actions such as making threats, spreading rumors, attacking someone physically or verbally, and excluding someone from a group on purpose.”
See for example
“Cyberbullying” can be described as “bullying that takes place using electronic technology. Electronic technology includes devices and equipment such as cell phones, computers, and tablets as well as communication tools including social media sites, text messages, chat, and websites.
Examples of cyberbullying include mean text messages or emails, rumors sent by email or posted on social networking sites, and embarrassing pictures, videos, websites, or fake profiles.”
See for example
The Bullying policy is:
“BULLYING POLICY: McHenry Elementary School District 15 has an official policy prohibiting bullying and any other form of intimidation or harassment. Anyone having knowledge of such behavior is directed to contact the building principal immediately. Bullying might include any harassing or intimidating behavior (verbal, physical or visual) that unreasonably interferes with one’s education. Examples of prohibited conduct include name-calling, using derogatory slurs, or wearing or possessing items depicting or implying hatred or prejudice toward another person. Prohibited conduct includes any use of violence, force, noise, coercion, threats, intimidation, fear, harassment, bullying, including, but not limited to all forms of cyber-bullying via any media source, hazing, or other comparable conduct. This type of behavior will not be tolerated in District 15 schools and will be dealt with by school administrators according to building disciplinary policy”.
Pictured below from left to right are Kim McGann, Chelsea Baird, and Mike Glover
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Rotary Foundation CentennialOn Sunday, November 13, 2016, members of the Rotary Club of McHenry attended the 100th Anniversary of Rotary Foundation Banquet in Arlington Heights. Those who attended included Fr. Godwin Nsikan-Ubom Asuquo, Pastor of Saint Patrick Church in McHenry, Denis and Michelle Buch of Boone Creek Cabinetry & Design, Ron and Linda Bykowski (Ron is the Chairman of the Rotary Club of McHenry Charitable Foundation, Inc.), Rev. Lori M. Lowe, Rector of Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church, and Rev. William (Bill) McLemore, Rector of Saint Ann’s Episcopal Church and President of the Rotary Club of McHenry.
The speaker was Past Rotary Foundation Trustee, Sam Owori from Uganda who is also the Rotary International President-elect for the year 2018-2019. He is a member of the Kampala Rotary Club. Sam Owori shared various aspects of the Rotary Foundation's profound impact in the world.
Fr. Godwin, Denis and Michelle Buch, Ron and Linda Bykowski, and Rev. Lori Lowe are pictured below. Rev. Bill McLemore is taking the pictures.
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McHenry County Adult ProgramOn November 10, 2016, Carol Toft (a student’s mother), Marcia Chester (Director and a student’s mother), and Steve Chester (a student’s father) presented the McHenry County Adult Program (“McCAP”) to the Rotary Club of McHenry. McCAP is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that serves young adults with special needs in the greater McHenry County area. With a 2:1 student to staff ratio, each participant is encouraged and supported to reach their full potential and improve their quality of life. McCAP’s mission is “To provide a meaningful learning experience that will enrich and expand the lives of young adults with serve and profound disabilities.”
From left to right are: Steve Chester, Marcia Chester (Director), David Chester, William McLemore (Rotary Club of McHenry President), Carol Toft, and Nikki Toft.
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Holiday MealsOn November 3, 2016, the Rotary Club of McHenry Foundation, Inc. (organizer of Blues, Brews & Barbeque) presented the McHenry Knights of Columbus, Council #16446, McHenry, IL with a check for $550. This reinvestment in our shared community assists in funding Thanksgiving and Christmas meals for McHenry residents who during the Holiday Season might find themselves without sufficient means to partake in these important American traditions – Thanksgiving and Christmas. Through the net proceeds of Blues, Brews & Barbeque (and other similar events), those who participate in such community events (which are organized by the Rotary Club of McHenry Foundation, Inc.) help to fund various investments back into our shared community and its citizens.
This wonderful Holiday season is extended more broadly to a larger number of our residents through the efforts of the McHenry Knights of Columbus, Council #16446, McHenry, IL and similar efforts of others.
The McHenry Knights of Columbus will host a Holiday meal packing function at Holy Apostles Church (which is located at 5211 Bull Valley Rd, McHenry IL) on the following dates:
Email the event chair Charles Caner for this event at: http://kofcknights.org/EmailCouncilEC.asp?ID=95874&CNO=1288 if you would like to participate in the meal packing and/or delivery function.
Pictured here from left to right are Denis Buch (President-Elect of the Rotary Club of McHenry), Carl W. Smith (SK Grand Knight St Patrick Council 16446), and Ron Bykowski (Chairman of the Rotary Club of McHenry Foundation, Inc.).
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The Rotary Foundation CentennialSarah Oliver (member of the Wilmette Harbor Rotary Club) is the Chair of Rotary District 6440 Rotary Foundation Committee. On November 3, 2016, she presented various aspects of the Rotary Foundation to the Rotary Club of McHenry, IL. Sarah’s presentation was interesting and informative. Rotary Clubs around the world continue to improve our world through service above self.
“The Rotary Foundation transforms your gifts into projects that change lives both close to home and around the world.” The Rotary Foundation’s Centennial is 2017.
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Magical Mystery TourOn October 27, 2016, members of the Rotary Club of McHenry (and guests) went on a Magical Mystery Tour.
The details of the Magical Mystery Tour had been kept a well-guarded secret. As the evening unfolded, we enjoyed a wonderful reception at Boone Creek Cabinetry & Design’s showroom, followed by a social, yet suspenseful, bus ride to an undisclosed location. Upon arriving, we enjoyed appetizers and a delicious meal at the Pirch Kitchen, Bathroom, and Outdoor Store at 624 Oak Brook Center, Oak Brook, Illinois.
Denis (President-Elect of the Rotary Club of McHenry) and Michele Buch organized this extraordinary event. This was fun, entertaining and most of all it served to build goodwill and better friendships, and it was beneficial to all. Here are a few pictures from the event.
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Character Based ManagementRobert Beezat presented Character Based Management , his most recent book. The book can be purchased online by clicking here. The presentation can be downloaded from the home page of the Rotary Club of McHenry.
You can also download the free “Be A Better You” app, which is a personal workbook companion to the book Character Based Management by clicking here. The app’s goal is to help you keep track of the characteristics you want to focus on to become a more well-rounded manager. You'll fill out a short assessment, set a few action items upon which to focus, and the app will send you a weekly reminder email. Sign up for free, opt out any time.
For more on Robert Beezat’s experience, click here.
Here is Robert Beezat presenting Character Based Management, his most recent book.
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Pioneer Center - Annual Fall Farm FestOur annual Fall Farm Fest at Stade's Farm & Market with our friends at Pioneer Center. We love having our friends at the farm for donuts and cider, petting zoo and hayrides and picking pumpkins. Thank you to Vern Stade and his staff.
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Save a LifeHarvey Mysel is the Founder & President of Living Kidney Donors Network (LKDN) (Blood Pressure Screening Program). Harvey established the LKDN after recognizing the need for better resources while pursuing a successful living kidney transplant in 2006. LKDN's purpose is to share knowledge and build the confidence to enable the life changing benefits of living donation.
Here is Harvey Mysel (left) administering a blood pressure test for Bill McLemore (right), President of the Rotary Club of McHenry.
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Welcome New Member Dawn Cassiday Turner Dawn Cassiday Turner, Relationship Banker at American Community Bank & Trust in McHenry, has become a member of the Rotary Club of McHenry. Pictured here is President Bill McLemore welcoming Dawn on behalf of all members.
Dawn Cassiday Turner (Left) William “Bill” McLemore (Right)
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Kathy (Kat) Beringer, Assistant Governor – Northwest Sector – Rotary InternationalKathy (Kat) Beringer, Assistant Governor – Northwest Sector – Rotary International, presented members of the McHenry Rotary Club with the 2016-2017 Directory for Rotary International, District 6440 (“The Home District”). Kat also mentioned a few upcoming anniversaries of various clubs (e.g., Waukegan Rotary Club’s 100th anniversary on December 1, having been formed on such date in 1916).
Picture: Kat and Bill McLemore, McHenry Rotary Club President
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PAST PRESIDENT, TONY HUEMANN, HONORED AS A PAUL HARRIS FELLOWAt the regular meeting of the McHenry Rotary Club, Thursday, July 21st, at the McHenry VFW Post, Past President, Tony Huemann received the anonymous gift of being made a Paul Harris Fellow. The award was presented by (Left to right in photo below) yours truly; with Rotary Foundation Chair, Phil Bartmann; and Tony and his wife, Brenda, Huemann present for the awarding. A goodly number of Tony's family attended the meal and ceremony.  |
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BYKOWSKI'S AWARD FR GODWIN PAUL HARRIS FELLOW At the Thursday, July 7th, noon meeting of the McHenry Rotary Club (President McLemore's first), he presented, on behalf of Ron and Linda Bykowski, the Paul Harris Fellow citation to Fr. Godwin Asuquo, newly inducted Rotarian, and Pastor of St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Church, McHenry. Ron noted Fr. Godwin's mission work with his native country, Nigeria, and that he has been a resident of the United States for 17 years and is an American citizen. (Shown below, left to right: Ron Bykowski, Fr. Godwin, Linda Bykowski, and President Bill McLemore. The presentation followed the President's address in which he formed the club into four action committees under the direction of the Directors of Avenues of Service: Club Service (Donna Schaeffer); Community Service (Ron Newman); Vocational Service (Brian Thoma); and International Service (Karen Lavin). He also  introduced the Club Officers: Tony Huemann, Past President; Denis Buch, President Elect; Terry Fitzgibbons, Secretary; and Cheryden Juergensen, Treasurer. |
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BILL MCLEMORE INDUCTED AS CLUB PRESIDENT |
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MCHENRY ROTARY WELCOMES TWO NEW MEMBERS |
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FORMER MCHENRY ROTARIANS VISIT THE CLUB |
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ROTARY YOUTH LEADERSHIP AWARD (RYLA) VISITS MCHENRY ROTARY (Left to right) Trista Iodice and Jeff Batt, McHenry Sunrise Club; students: Kyle Lim, Jim Myers, Megan Jurek, and Bri Huff; and Amber Bowgren, Assistant Principal, McHenry High School West Campus. They visited the McHenry Rotary Club at noon, Thursday, May 12th, at the McHenry VFW Club to talk about their recent RYLA weekend. The students were among 100 young women and men who met for three days at YMCA Camp Edwards in East Troy, Wisconsin, April 7-10th. The youth were selected for their leadership abilities and skills from several local high schools. The weekend included educational presentations on leadership, times for fellowship, and small group sharing. |
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‘HOME OF THE SPARROW’ RECEIVES MCHENRY ROTARY SUPPORT |
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McHENRY ROTARY LEARNS ABOUT ADVOCACY FOR CHILDREN |
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MCHENRY ROTARY WELCOMES NEW MEMBER |
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McHENRY ROTARIANS LEARN ABOUT THE FOX WATERWAY |
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BRAD BURGESS SPEAKS ON LOCAL VOLNTEER CENTER OF MCHENRY COUNTY |
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DG ELECT, RICK RIVKIN, VISITS MCHENRY ROTARY |
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DON TONYAN BRIEFS CLUB ON PLANS FOR THE BLUES - BREWS - BBQ |
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CLUB RECEIVES AWARD FOR SUPPORT OF ADVANCED PLACEMENT PROGRAM |
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CLUB WELCOMES A NEW MEMBER.jpg) John F. Halbleib, proposed by member Lori Lowe, was officially inducted by unanimous approval, as a member of the Rotary Club of McHenry. John gave the Club a brief overview of his background and vocation. He lists his position as Member/Owner of John F Halbleib, LLC as well as President & Chairman of the Life, Liberty & Pursuit of Happiness Research, Inc. His wife is Jeanne Duffy. John's birthday is May 5th, her birthday is June 26, and their anniversary is October 3rd. |
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CIRCUIT JUDGE ADDRESSES MCHENRY ROTARY |
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MEMBER BECOMES A PAUL HARRIS FELLOW |
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TONYAN EXPLAINS THE INTRICACIES OF ICE FISHING |
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AG KAT BERINGER VISITS MCHENRY ROTARY |
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PAUL HARRIS FELLOW RECOGNITIONJames A. Valley, long-time friend and business associate of Ron Bykowski, was presented with a Paul Harris Fellow recognition at the regular noon meeting of the McHenry Rotary Club, Thursday, January 21st, at the McHenry VFW Lodge. The Paul Harris recognition is presented by persons contributing $1,000 or more to the Rotary Foundation. This is an international fund which supports service projects all over the world, polio vaccines, education, water supplies, and many related needs. Ron and Jim have worked together for 34 years and Ron added, "We have had fewer spats than either one of us with our wives." Left to right in the photograph: Ron and Linda Bykowski, Rita and Jim Valley, Bill McLemore. |
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HELPING WITH ADVANCE PLACEMENT EXAMS |
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HELPING WITH ADVANCE PLACEMENT EXAMS |
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COUPLE RECEIVE MAJOR DONOR RECOGNITION |
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LOCAL MCHENRY WOMAN RECEIVES A PAUL HARRIS FELLOWSHIP HONOR. |
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MCHENRY ROTARY WELCOMES CATHY PATENAUDE |
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ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BANQUET |
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McHENRY ROTARIANS JOIN TO "FEED THE STARVING CHILDREN." |
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MCHENRY ROTARY AT STADE'S FARM WITH PIONEER CENTER |
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SIX YEAR OLD GUEST! |
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DISTRICT GOVERNOR, RODNEY ADAMS, VISIT MCHENRY ROTARY |
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DISTRICT GOVERNOR PRESENTS PAUL HARRIS FELLOW TO LINDA BYKOWSKI |
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DON TONYAN GIVES REPORT ON WEEKEND BB&B |
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BB&B ORIENTATION |
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GIFT BAG "BRIGADE" |
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CLUB OFFICER INSTALLATION++ After enjoying a delicious steak and baked potato meal with a lemon sherbert for dessert, the 2015-2016 officers were installed including incoming President, Tony Huemann (shown in the photo being sworn in by Assistant Governor, Don Brewer). ++ Other than President Huemann; the 2015-16 Club Officers are: Brian Thoma, Immediate Past President; Denis Buch, Vice-President; Cheryden Juergensen, Treasurer; Terry Fitzgibbons, Secretary; Karen Lavin, Director for International Service; Ron Bykowski, Charitable Foundation Chair; Phil Sweeney, Membership Chair; and Phil Bartmann, Rotary Foundation Chair. ++ In his closing remarks, President Huemann outlined three basic goals for his administration: (1) Increase club membership by at least 3 new members; (2) Increase our activity in Polio Plus; and (3) Increase club awareness of the international nature of Rotary. ++ Last but not least, Bob Blake won the weekly raffle which comes to about $100. |
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EARL FERRIS, FORMER MCHENRY ROTARIAN DIES
N. Earl Ferris II
Earl Ferris, a member of McHenry Rotary in the 1990's died Saturday, July 13th, at his home in Huntley.
He was born May 24, 1929 the son of S. Wayne and Allice (Herring) Ferris. He was raised and educated in Hampton, Iowa, graduating from Hampton High School in 1947.
Earl attended Iowa State University and later enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served in the Korean War.
March 30, 1951, he married Wanda M. Wiese in Eldora, Iowa, and they lived in Hampton where he owned and operated the Earl Ferris Nursery.
He was a life-long Rotarian serving in the Hampton Rotary Club, the Round Lake Rotary Club, and the McHenry Rotary Club, rising to the office of President in several and becoming a Paul Harris fellow multiple times.
He is survived by his companion, Marjorie Hanson of Huntley, his children, Skip (Terri) Ferris of Gilbert, Minnesota, Bill (Linn) Ferris of Lakeville, Minnesota, Maryann Sudmeier of Arvada, Colorado, Bob (Patty) Ferris of Crystal Lake, Illinois, and John (Heather) Ferris of the Village of Greenwood, Illinois, 8 grandchildren, 6 great- grandchildren, his sister, Patricia Boehmler of Mesa, Arizona and his brother, Wayne "Mickey" Ferris. Earl was preceded in death by his wife of 51 years, Wanda.
A memorial gathering will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday, June 19th at the DeFlore-Jorgensen Funeral Home, 10763 Dundee Road, Huntley, Illinois.
A Memorial Service will be held at 2 P.M. on Saturday, June 20th with visitation an hour prior at the First Congregational Church, 11628 E Main Street, Huntley, Illinois.
Burial with full military honors will be at Hampton Cemetery in Hampton, Iowa, Monday, June 22nd, 11 a.m.
Instead of flowers, the family lists several avenues for contributions including the Rotary Foundation, 14280 Collections Center Drive, Chicago, IL 60693 or at Rotary.org.
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LOCAL FUND RAISER GIVES HELPFUL HINTS TO MCHENRY ROTARIANS The McHenry Rotary Club welcomed Kathrine P. Violett, Community Development Associate at McHenry Savings Bank to their Thursday, June 11
 th, noon meeting, at the McHenry Country Club. Kathrine, an accomplished fund raiser, gave some basics to the membership regarding securing sponsors for the club’s “Blues, Brews, & BBQ, scheduled for the weekend of July 31-August 2nd, at Petersen Park in McHenry. This annual even raises funds for club projects such as scholarships, food banks, and other local charities. She said the secret is to know the “right person, the right ask, the right time, and the right way.” |
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DON ARVIDSON BRINGS HIS SON AS A GUEST TO THE JUNE 11TH MEETING Don Arvidson, a member of the McHenry Rotary Club since April 12, 1964, architect and general contractor, brought his son, LTC Mark Arvidson, recently retired from the U. S. Army to our regular meeting, Thursday, June 11th, at the McHenry Country Club.
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RROTARIANS TAKE A “BOAT RIDE” DOWN THE CHAIN O’LAKES |
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A MONTH IN AFRICA: A MARK-ROLOW SHOW |
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ROTARIANS CLEAR LAND AT PETERSEN PARK |
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Members Attending the Final Meeting at Marzano's Italian Restaurant, Thursday, April 30th |
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VFW WOMEN ADDRESS CLUB ON ‘REACH ACROSS AMERICA’ |
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STATE SENATOR ALTHOFF MCHENRY ROTARY GUEST SPEAKER |
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THURSDAY, APRIL 2ND, MEETING INCLUDES A "HAPPY BIRTHDAY" |
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VISTA MEMBER ADDRESSES MCHENRY ROTARY ON LOCAL FOOD BANK |
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PIONEER CENTER DAY PROGRAM DIRECTOR ADDRESSES MCHENRY ROTARY |
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HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL TALKS ON ‘ADVANCED PLACEMENT PROGRAM’ The McHenry Rotary Club welcomed guest speaker, Marsha Potthoff, Principal of McHenry High School, West Campus, who explained the ‘Advanced Placement Program’ at the school. Twenty separated courses are offered at the High School including, art, biology, chemistry, geography, history, physics, and psychology. The stumbling block for many students is the cost of testing which she hopes can be assisted with scholarship help. The program was held Thursday, February 26th, 12 noon, at the regular meeting in St. Paul’s Church, McHenry.
 Photo: Rotarian, Terry Fitzgibbons, a school official from East Campus, with Marsha Pottoff, Principal at the West Campus, McHenry High School. |
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F.I.S.H. VOLUNTEER EXPLAINS LOCAL FOOD BANK PROGRAM |
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CHRISTMAS BANQUET FEATURES VIOLINISTS The annual McHenry Rotary Club Christmas Banquet was held at the North 31 Banquet and Conference Center, 6 P.M., Thursday evening, December 4th. About 40 guests enjoyed a fellowship time with cash bar refreshments, a delicious meal featuring roast beef and barbeque chicken, and a violin program featuring eight young women violinists and their instructor. Music varied from the classical to the popular and included Tennessee fiddling!
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McHENRY ROTARY JOINS IN HOSTING A COMMUNITY BREAKFAST The first McHenry Community Fellowship Breakfast was held at 7:30 A.M. at McHenry High School West Campus, Wednesday morning, November 26th. Hundreds of leaders and citizens of the community attended the breakfast sponsored by the High School National Honor Society, Kiwanis, Lions, and the two Rotary Clubs of McHenry. Kiwanian, Nancy Tunberg, who brought the idea to fruition welcomed everyone, along with Jared Kaminiski and Alec Lancaster of the Honor Society. The McHenry High School Choir provided music for the occasion and led the group in the singing of the National Anthem. The keynote speaker was Kit Carstens who talked of the history of community development in McHenry, the present situation, and the future possibilities. The meeting ended with a 17 minute video presentation featuring alumni of McHenry High School West Campus. Among those attending from the McHenry Noon Rotary Club were Tony Huemann, Sue Low, Bill McLemore, Donna Schaefer, Phil Sweeney, Don Tonyan, and Tom Webb.
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HARGROVE AWARDED SECOND PAUL HARRIS FELLOW Past District Governor and Club Member, Bill McLemore, presents a two jeweled gold pin to Terry Hargrove whose generous contributions to the Rotary Foundation have earned him the honor of a second Paul Harris Fellow award. The presentation was made at the regular club meeting, Thursday, November 20, 2014, at the noon gathering of the club in the river side meeting room of the McHenry Country Club. (Photo courtesy of Donna Schaefer)
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CLUB RECEIVES APPRECIATION PLAQUE Terry Fitzgibbons presented a plaque to our Rotary Club at the regular meeting, Thursday, November 13th from the Warrior Academy's Speaker Series, for our club's contribution to help pay the expenses for a recent guest speaker, Keith Hawkins. Hawkins addressed five local schools on the subject of how to deal with bullying among students. The plaque details Mr. Hawkin's background and information about his presentations, times and places. According to Terry, this program was very well received by the students.
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GRAPHOLOGIST DESCRIBES MENTAL BENEFITS OF CURSIVE WRITING! The McHenry Rotary Club welcomed guest speaker, Charles Benedetti, a graphologist from Lincolnshire, Illinois, to its regular noon meeting, Thursday, November 6th, at the McHenry Country Club. He detailed what he looks for in handwriting analysis as well as stressed the importance of children learning cursive writing at an early age. He is anxious to bring his message to schools where the act of cursive writing seems no longer important. He feels that learning cursive writing is very important for mental acuity and brain to muscle control. Shown above, Brian Thomas (left) and Don Tonyan (right) look on as Charles Benedetti demonstrates the benefits of learning and using cursive writing. |
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JOHNSBURG POLICE CHIEF EXPLAINS OUTREACH PROGRAMS
The McHenry Rotary Club welcomed guest speaker, Johnsburg Police Chief, Keith Von Allmen, who gave an informative presentation on his department’s community outreach programs which include an Explorer Youth Program, Shop with a Cop, Community Police Academy, Bowl with a Cop, and a Prescription Drug Takeback program. Club President, Brian Thoma, also presented a check representing McHenry Rotary’s support of the Explorer Youth Program at the regular Thursday noon meeting, October 23rd, at the McHenry Country Club.
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McHENRY ROTARY AT STADE'S FARM
Thursday, October 16th, Stade's Farm... McHenry Rotarians gathered for lunch here today and assisted with the visit of exceptional children and adults from a local agency. They enjoyed petting animals, a hay ride, and other activities at this popular local farm and park. Photo courtesy of Donna Schaefer. |
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MCHENRY COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION SERVES VETERANS
The McHenry Rotary Club welcomed guest speaker, Robin R. Doeden, Executive Director for the McHenry County Community Foundation at their noon meeting, Thursday, October 9th, at the McHenry Country Club. Ms. Doeden outlined several programs of her organization that helps veterans, especially in the area of medical treatment and education services. The McHenry County Community Foundation is an affiliate of the Chicago Community Trust. |
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ROTARIANS LEARN ART OF SELF DEFENSE FROM JOE ROSNER
The McHenry Rotary Club welcomed guest speaker, Joe Rosner, a local self-defense instructor from Hebron, Illinois. Rosner put forth some no-nonsense ways in which persons could increase their safety when accosted by a threatening person. His talk was given at the regular Thursday meeting of the McHenry Rotary Club at noon, October 2nd, in the McHenry Country Club. His presentation included a role play with a Rotarian to show how to thwart physical aggressive movements. Photo: Rosner demonstrates how to break a choke hold with McHenry Rotarian, Terry Hargrove. |
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ALGONQUIN ROTARIAN TAPPED AS DISTRICT GOVERNOR
Donald Brewer, Assistant Governor for Rotary District 6440, has been elected to serve as District Governor for the Rotary year 2017-2018. Don is a member of the Algonquin Rotary Club and has served as Assistant Governor for a number of years. He visited the McHenry Rotary Club at its regular meeting, Thursday, October 2nd, at the McHenry Country Club. Brewer is shown in this photograph being congratulated by McHenry Past President, Tom Webb. |
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POLICE CHIEF ON SCHOOL SECURITY
The Rotary Club of McHenry, at its Thursday noon meeting, September 25th, at the McHenry Country Club, McHenry, welcomed Chief John Jones of the McHenry Police Department who gave a talk on steps taken in McHenry to respond to possible armed attacks at local schools. The Chief outlined the training and community based cooperation of police, fire, public works, and educational leaders to prepare for the eventuality of someone bringing a weapon to school as an act of terror. Photo: Club President, Brian Thoma, is shown with guest speaker, Chief John Jones. |
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McHENRY ROTARY PDG PRESENTS TWO PAUL HARRIS FELLOWSHIPS
The Rotary Club of McHenry, at its Thursday noon meeting, September 25th, at the McHenry Country Club, McHenry, had member, PDG Bill McLemore, present two Paul Harris Fellows with their certificates and pins. Ron Bykowski, through a substantial contribution to the Rotary Foundation, increased his giving level to 8 and designated a portion of his gift to honor new member, Susie Franks, as a Paul Harris Fellow. Photo: (Left to right, benefactor Ron Bykowski, Paul Harris Fellow Susie Frank, and PDG Bill McLemore. Photo courtesy of Donna Schaefer. |
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McHENRY ROTARY WELCOMES NEW MEMBER
The Rotary Club of McHenry, at its Thursday noon meeting, September 25th, at the McHenry Country Club, McHenry, inducted Susie Frank, founder and director of Mission Community Center for Sacramental Growth, MCCSG. Her organization is a McHenry Resource Center for home schooling and education program for our county area. Photo: Club President, Brian Thoma, (on the right) inducts Susie Frank as a member of the McHenry Rotary Club.
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VISITING ROTARIAN SISTER MARY MARTHA AND MEMBER PHIL BARTMANN
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ROTARIANS LEARN ABOUT LOCAL FARMING
The Rotary Club of McHenry, at its Thursday noon meeting, September 11th, at the McHenry Country Club, McHenry, welcomed Dan Volkers of the McHenry County Farm Bureau. Mr. Volkers presented a power point talk of the current activities and programs of our local farm bureau. Photo: Club President, Brian Thoma, is shown with guest speaker, Dan Volkers. |
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PLEASE CALL “CELEBRATE MY DRIVE” HIGH SCHOOL VISITORS IMPLORE!
Faculty members (left to right), Terry Fitzgibbons and Jen Beattie, and Senior High student, Bradley Smith, make an appeal to the members of the McHenry Rotary Club, Thursday, September 11th, 12 noon, to support a program of driving safety, “Celebrate My Drive,” of State Farm Insurance Company. The school that receives the most “votes” at www,celebratemydrive.com” will receive $100,000 in education grants. The meeting was at the McHenry Country Club on John’s Street in McHenry. |
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LOCAL COUPLE BRING SEARCH DOGS TO McHENRY ROTARY
The Rotary Club of McHenry, at its Thursday noon meeting at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, McHenry, welcomed Sharon and Bob Naskrent of the Illinois/Wisconsin Search and Rescue Team with two of their search dogs. They spoke of the many ways these dogs have saved lives with their unique ability to track and smell.
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McLEMORE TREATS CLUB TO LUNCH, THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4TH
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MCHENRY ROTARY LEARNS ABOUT THE HISTORIC PETERSEN FARM
The Rotary Club of McHenry, at its Thursday noon meeting at the McHenry County Club, welcomed local historian, Pat Wirtz, who presented a program on the history of the Petersen Farm and the community activities planned by the Petersen Farm Foundation. The farm dates back to 1842 when Page Colby purchased 240 acres along what would become McCullon Lake Road. Every year the Foundations holds a “Petersen Farm Day” with tours of the farm house, activities for the children, and other forms of entertainment. Over 1,500 attended their last event. |
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PHOTO STORY OF THE SWEENEY ICE SLOSHING
ROTARIAN TAKES ICE BUCKET FOR ALS AT MEETING Mayor Sue Low dared Phil Sweeney, both members of the McHenry Rotary Club, to take the ALS ice water challenge. Phil accepted the challenge and the club elected Jim Vyduna and Don Tonyan to lift and pour the bucket of ice and water over his head. Through a process of auction and club action, the group raised nearly $200 to help fight ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or ‘Lou Gehrig’s Disease' Phil, in his pre-dousing speech, named his siblings, brothers Brendan and Frank, sister, Maureen, to join the thousands who have taken the ice bath for ALS. The whole procedure ended the weekly noon meeting of the McHenry Rotary Club on the grounds of the McHenry Country Club, facing the members looking through the windows. Photo: Jim Vyduna and Don Tonyan pour the ice water over fellow Rotarian Phil Sweeney. |
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DISTRICT GOVERNOR, ELLEN YOUNG, VISITS MCHENRY ROTARY
The Rotary Club of McHenry welcomed the Governor of Rotary District 6440, Ellen Young, at its regular meeting, Thursday, August 14th, at the McHenry Country Club. The governor presented a brief power point program highlighting the world-wide service projects of Rotary International and spoke of the importance of involvement in community service. District 6440 has over 2,000 members in about 66 clubs in the northeast corner of Illinois. Photo: Governor Meets with Board of Directors. (Clockwise from left), Donna Schaefer, Tony Huemann, Assistant Governor Don Brewer, Governor Ellen Young, Cheryden Juergensen, (backs to camera), Past President Tom Webb, President Brian Thoma |
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MAYOR HONORS LOCAL CITIZEN FOR WORLD WAR II DOMESTIC SUPPORT
Mayor Sue Low presents a McHenry proclamation to member Don Weingart, a long-time McHenry Rotarian, for his support of the United States Military during World War II. These awards were presented at the veterans appreciation ceremonies at the Pearl Street Park the preceding Sunday which Don was unable to attend. The photo shows Don and Mayor Sue with the proclamation at the Thursday, August 14th, noon meeting of the club. Ron Bykowski also noted the World War II service of member Bob Blake. |
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McHENRY ROTARY PRESENTS $948.10 CONTRIBUTION TO LOCAL DIAPER BANK
Bill McLemore, Priest Associate Retired, of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, McHenry, receives a check for $948.10 from Rotarian Don Tonyan as part of the Community Service monies raised at their recent Blues, Brews, and Barbecues. From all reports, this was one of the most successful of these annual events sponsored by McHenry Rotary. Early estimates indicate the club will be able to offer nearly $20,000 outreach to the community. |
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KELSEY PAPERS REVEAL VALUABLE CLUB HISTORY
I have been scanning the photos and papers left by Jack Kelsey(about 200 so far) and found a real treasure for our history. Among the photos, newsletters, and memorabilia, is his 1965-1966 membership notebook. Not only with photos and brief bios of all the members in that day, but in the back is a brief history of each year from 1954-1966. The attached photo is of Jack's page in the directory. It will take a while to finish scanning the material, but I just wanted to share this. I've scanned every page. Bill McLemore, Club Historian |
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TAX ASSESSOR JULY 24th CLUB PROGRAM
Mary Mahady, McHenry Township Assessor was the guest speaker at our club meeting, July 24th, 12:00 noon, at the McHenry Country Club. |
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Reel - July 10, 2014President Thoma called the meeting to order, with 15 Rotarians in attendance and our guest speaker, Lucy Tonyan (see Bill McLemore's story about our speaker). Phil Sweeney lead us in the Pledge, Denny Welter the 4 Way Test, Don Weingart a song and Bill McLemore a prayer of thanks and hope for a speedy recovery for Phil Bartmann. Fun and Frolic - Brian quizzed us "On This Day In History" Mystery Hand Shaker - Phil Sweeney Happy Dollars - Brian for Phil B. coming home from the hospital and fleecing Sweeney at poker, Jim Vyduna for his stay at his condo in Colorado, Kathy for her upcoming trip to Alaska, Patrick for spending some time with his 9 month old granddaughter in Ohio and Bill McLemore for the return of Lori from her grandmother duties out of state. Reports: Picnic In The Park - July 17th - 5 pm Veterans Park...BYOB (bring your own beverage) - No meeting at the Country Club Bags Tournament - July 19th - corner of 120 and Riverside Drive - benefit for St. Pauls Diaper Bank Fiesta Day Parade - July 20th - volunteers needed to hand out brochures during parade 50/50 drawing - Sue Low had the ticket but the white marble remains...pot is now $ 121
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LOCAL ARTIST PRESENTS THE PROGRAM FOR JULY 10th
Lucy Tonyan, a long-time resident of McHenry, recently an Art Teacher at Montini Catholic School for 18 years, talked to the McHenry Rotary Club about the importance of art for children and adults. She recently resigned from her teaching position to spend full time with her art school studio she began in downtown McHenry. She believes that art can be applied to many different disciplines such as geography, reading, writing, and history. Lucy mentioned the "Art Parties" at her studio every Friday and Saturday night. She also explained a new medium, Chalk Paint, which can be used to decorate furniture, walls, and paint effects. Lucy is shown in the photo attached to the right of McHenry Rotarian, Donna Schaefer. |
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CLUB GETS AN INFORMATION "HIGH" ON MEDICAL MARIJUANA
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BRIAN THOMA SUCCEEDS TOM WEBB AS CLUB PRESIDENT
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FRED NEUSCHEL RECEIVES CHECK FOR $1,000 TO AID POOR FAMILIES IN MEXICO
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CLUB MAKES GIFT TO ST PAUL'S DIAPER BANK
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KATHY PELZ WINS PRESIDENT'S AWARD
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NEW MEMBER DR. PATRICK MAYNARD
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ROTARIANS OF McHENRY ENJOY ‘GREEN BAY LOVE STORIES’
The Rotary Club of McHenry welcomed Sandy Sullivan of Franklin, Wisconsin, the author of “Green Bay Love Stories” who entertained the members telling of her association with the Green Bay Packers beginning in 1961. Sandy addressed the club at their regular noon meeting, Thursday, June 5th, at the McHenry Country Club. She shared her personal memories of what she calls the “Packers glory days.” Photo: Guest speaker, Sandy Sullivan, is shown with Club President, Tom Webb.
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McHENRY ROTARY VISITED BY HOMEBREW JUDGE
The Rotary Club of McHenry welcomed Roy Stoppenbach, an Electrical Engineer with Continental Automotive Systems as well as a licensed judge for homebrew. He will be one of the judges for the upcoming Blues-Brews-Barbecues scheduled August 1-3rd at Petersen Park in McHenry. Roy described the 5 areas to be considered in the judging. The homebrew contest is just one of the many activities planned for this annual fund raiser of McHenry Rotarians. Roy is pictured with Don Tonyan, Chair of the BB&B weekend. |
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MOTHER AND DAUGHTER AT ROTARY
We always enjoy it when members bring their family to club meetings and we were blessed today with Donna Schaefer and her daughter Hannah! |
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McHENRY ROTARY MEETS RECENT SCHOLARSHIP HONOREEThe Rotary Club of McHenry welcomed Jesse Lopez, one of three awarded a $3,000 scholarship by the club Scholarship Committee. Jesse graduated from McHenry High School West Campus where he played varsity soccer and will be entering St. Xavier University in Chicago with a major in business and finance. Jesse is on the left of Scholarship Chair, Terry Fitzgibbons, in this photograph. |
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McHENRY ROTARY LEARNS ABOUT A SPECIAL HOME HEALTH CARE PROGRAMThe Rotary Club of McHenry welcomed Sherry and Hugh McGowan, Directors of “Visiting Angels,” a local program for living assistance among the elderly and infirm. The couple spoke alternately on the training of their volunteers and the value of home bound health and wellness care. Among their services are meal preparation, errands and shopping, light housekeeping, and companionship. Their offices are located at 12 E. Crystal Lake Avenue in Crystal Lake. They made their presentation at the regular Thursday meeting of McHenry Rotary, May 15th, in the river side dining hall of the McHenry Country Club. |
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McHENRY ROTARY WELCOMES ROTARY YOUTH LEADERS
The Rotary Club of McHenry welcomed a group of local High School students who have recently participated in the Rotary Youth Leadership Award training workshops. These three day events include learning communications skills, problem solving, conflict management, being effective leaders, and community and global citizenship. The students were presented and introduced by Jeff Batt of the McHenry Sunrise Rotary, to the Thursday noon meeting of the McHenry Rotary Club, May 15th, at the McHenry Country Club. Photo: (left to right): Jeff Batt , Sunrise Rotary Club; Liesl Zostrow, McHenry West Campus; Cassiddy Wowrzos, McHenry West Campus; Roberto Varela, McHenry East Campus; and Caitlyn Grubich, McHenry East Campus. |
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HOME SCHOOLING PROGRAM FOR THURSDAY, MAY 8TH
Our club welcomed a group of participants in the Mission Community Center for Sacramental Growth (MCCSG) Thursday, May 8th, at the McHenry Country Club. The program was scheduled by Susie Frank (see photograph) of the organization who gave the opening talk about their purpose and mission. Other speakers directed their comments on various aspects of the non-profit group that seeks to imporove education through tutoring, sports, and club activities. |
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MANAGING FIRE TRUCKS WITH ROAD CONSTRUCTION
The Rotary Club of McHenry welcomed Tony Huemann, Chief of McHenry Township Fire Protection District, and also a club member since 2010, as their program Thursday, May 1st, at the McHenry Country Club. Chief Huemann spoke to the members about the arrangement planned for fire protection during the road construction underway and planned for three areas: Route 31 and Route 120 in downtown McHenry, Route 31 and Bull Valley Road south of the city, and a round-a-bout in Johnsburg at a major intersection. Plans include a temporary fire house in a vacant auto mechanic building as well as coordinating with construction activities. |
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VOCATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP STUDENTS VISIT McHENRY ROTARY
Our Rotary Club welcomed three local High School students who have each been awarded a $500 Vocational Scholarship by this club. (Left to right) Stuart Swanson, Johnsburg High, looks to a career in equine care; Ashley Burr and Colin Ellison, who both attend McHenry High West Campus. Ashley looks to study nursing and Colin seeks to become a firefighter and paramedic. |
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R. I. PRESIDENT ADDRESSES MEMBERSHIP GROWTH
Ron Burton, R I President 2013-14 has an extensive 7 page article in the May issue of the ROTARIAN. The lead statement for the article is: "For the past decade, Rotary's membership has lingered around 1.2 million. That means for every person who joined in the last 10 years, another person left. Today's numbers show Rotary is not only stagnant but in decline in many areas." The article begins on page 62 and covers many different aspect of membership growth. The last page (illustrated here) is TAKE ACTION--Not sure why your club is shrinking? Ask these questions: (1) Is my club's meeting time, format, and location convenient for members with families or younger professions still building their careers? (2) How well does my club reflect the age, gender, and professional diversity of my community? (3) Whose interests are reflected with my club's programs? (4) Do ceremonial activities take time away from speakers, club business, project planning, and networking? (5) Does my club have plans in place to contact guests after they visit? |
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ROTARIANS GET A “SKI LIFT”
The Rotary Club of McHenry welcomed its own Jim Vyduna who recently returned from a skiing trip in British Columbia who gave a program on snow skiing and avalanche safety. After some informative power point videos of a skier sliding a down a steep mountain slope, Jim carefully explained the extensive equipment needed for this alpine sport and survival. Of special interest was his demonstration of a special inflated protection device use in case of an avalanche. He noted that each skier carries a GPS that pinpoints his or her location as well as a signal emitter in case of being covered under snow. Vyduna provided the program Thursday, April 17th, at the regular noon meeting in the McHenry Country Club. |
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PRAYER BREAKFAST PROPOSED FOR WEEK OF THANKSGIVING
Nancy Tunberg, Bank Manager of the local First Midwest Bank, shared her former experience of an annual Prayer Breakfast in Gurnee sponsored by the local civic clubs. She wants to have the same type of breakfast here in McHenry and called on help by the McHenry Rotary Club. A suggestion was made to hold it on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving this year as the children will be out of school that day. Several members agreed to serve on the committee to help plan and execute this breakfast. Photo of Club President, Tom Webb, and Nancy Tunberg. Photo and submission by Bill McLemore, Club Publicity Chair, Thursday, April 3, 2014.
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BOY SCOUT EXECUTIVES ADDRESS OUR CLUB
We welcomed Nakisha Wilson, District Executive of the Blackhawk Area Council of the Boy Scouts and Dave Boudreau, McHenry District Director. They gave an overview of the scouting program in this area along with an introduction to the new Venture Scout Program. They noted their goals are “building youth of character, confidence, and leadership.” The presentation was made at our regular noon meeting, Thursday, March 27th, in the McHenry Country Club. Photo: (Left to right) Tom Webb, Club President; Nakisha Wilson, and Dane Boudreau. |
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PRESIDENT WEBB INITIATES CLUB MEMBERSHIP DRIVE!
President Tom Webb, at the Club Assembly, Thursday, March 20th, reminded all the members of the importance of bringing new members into the club. 100% of the members were so excited about the prospect that they posed for this attractive group photograph which reveals the warm community spirit of McHenry Rotary. Club Publicity Chair, Bill McLemore, took this photograph to illustrate how compelling Rotarians can be when challenged to spread the word about Rotary and our local club.
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McHENRY HIGH SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT ADDRESSES ROTARIANS
The Rotary Club of McHenry welcomed Michael L. Roberts, Ed. D., McHenry County District 156 Superintendent of Schools, to its Thursday noon meeting, March 13th, at the McHenry Country Club. Dr. Roberts also brought Eric Blake, Principal of the East Campus High School; and Marsha Potthoff, Principal of West Campus, and introduced them to the club. The superintendent spoke at length of the many changes in the school education programs but emphasized that the students and their education were the main focus of his administration. Photo: Superintendent, Michael Roberts, with Principals Marsha Potthoff and Eric Blake. |
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McHENRY ROTARY LEARNS OF NEW LOCAL BREWERY
The Rotary Club of McHenry welcomed Curt Ames, a 30 year veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, who has recently opened his own brewery in McHenry.
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McHENRY ROTARY GETS ESTATE AND FINANCIAL PLANNING ADVICE
The Rotary Club of McHenry welcomed Amy Barrett and Roberta Levinson who respectively presented programs on Financial and Estate planning. The two local attorneys “busted myths” associated with both of these important life issues. (Pictured to the left are Amy Barrett; Club President, Tom Webb; and Roberta Levinson.
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POLISH GOURMET LUNCHEON FEAST!
Cheryl and the chefs outdid themselves for our lunch meal this Thursday, February 20th. She said, 'I'm using you as guinea pigs to test my menu for a regional PLAV supper meeting to be held here." I took this photo of Tony Huemann's plate which only includes a few of the selections offered. |
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“BUILD A DREAM” REPRESENTATIVE FRED NEUSCHEL TELLS OF AID TO THE POOR IN MEXICO
President Elect, Brian Thoma, welcomes guest speaker, Fred Neuschel for his "Build A Dream" slide presentation.
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CATHOLIC NUN MAKES UP A ROTARY MEETING IN MCHENRY!
Mother Mary Martha, a sister of the Fraternite Notre Dame order, surprised us with her "make up" Thursday, February 6th. She is with the Shrine of Ecce Homo, 10002 Harmony Hill Road in Marengo and a member of the Marengo Rotary Club. She joined Rotary in New York City in 1997 and has been an active Rotarian ever since. She spoke briefly of the work of her order which is to operate soup kitchens for the homeless and needy people and children. She is shown in this photograph with Club President, Tom Webb.
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CLUB GETS PHOTO HISTORY OF MCHENRY FROM PAT WIRTZ!
The Rotary Club of McHenry welcomed Patrick Wirtz, McHenry Historian, who gave a slide show of people and places of the community dating back to the earliest history of its settlement. Pat has a photographic memory which augmented his commentary as he showed his pictures. |
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FATHER-DAUGHTER ATTENTION TO CLUB ASSEMBLY
Mike Ossler, our newest member, brought his daughter, Veronica, to today's meeting. The photograph shows them listening to the discussions on the Club Assembly which formed the program for today's, January 23rd, regular meeting at the Polish League of American Veterans lodge. Another frequent guest welcomed was Janice Bartmann, wife of Phil.
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MINISTRY TO CHICAGO HOMELESS FEATURED IN FEBRUARY "ROTARIAN"
A series of articles in the latest issue of THE ROTARIAN features the unique work of Chicago Rotarians to "Find Safe Haven" in one of the cities most dangerous neighborhoods!
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“THE HOMELESS COULD BE YOUR NEXT DOOR NEIGHBOR”
The Rotary Club of McHenry welcomed Barb Swanson of the Pioneer Center as guest speaker, Thursday, January 16th, at their noon meeting in the Polish Legion of American Veterans Post on North Park Street in McHenry.
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ROTARIAN HONORED AS A “PAUL HARRIS FELLOW”
Ronald Newman, who joined our McHenry Rotary Club in September 2011, was honored with the award as a “Paul Harris Fellow” at the January 16, 2014 meeting of his club in the Polish Legion of American Veterans Post on North Park Street in McHenry. |
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McHENRY HIGH ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL ADDRESSES CLUB
The Rotary Club of McHenry welcomed Carl Vallianatos, Assistant Principal at McHenry High School-West Campus, to its regular Thursday noon meeting, January 9th, at the Polish Legion of American Veterans Post on North Park Street in McHenry. |
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DON TONYAN TREATS MARY TO A ROTARY BIRTHDAY DINNER!
Mary Tonyan was a guest of her husband, Don, at Thursday, January 2nd, regular meeting of our club at the Polish Veteran's Lodge, McHenry.
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NEW MEMBER, MIKE OSSLER
Mike Ossler and his wife, Carla, and daughter, Veronica, who visited us on August 29th this summer, has moved into the area and will be a regular attender at our meetings. This photo was taken January 2nd, at the Polish Veteran's Lodge. Please welcome Mike when you see him at up-coming meetings. As President Tom Webb put it, "he's our first new member of 2014!"
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McHENRY ROTARY LEARNS THE THERAPY OF LAUGHTER
The Rotary Club of McHenry had a special guest for its Annual Christmas banquet in Julie Ostrow of “Find the Funny Enterprises.” She presented several humor and improvisation exercised to facilitate laughter, healing, and enhanced communication. The event was held at the McHenry VFW on Thursday evening, December 19th from 6-9 PM.
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McHENRY HOUSING DIRECTOR REVIEWS SERVICES
Pictured is the Executive Director of the McHenry County Housing Authority, Julie Biel Claussen, who was greeted by Club President, Tom Webb.
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RON NEWMAN, CLUB MEMBER, PRESENTS PROGRAM ON AFFORDABLE CARE ACT
McHenry Rotarian, Ron Newman, with Mutual of Omaha, presented the program Thursday, December 5th, at the regular meeting of the club. He is pictured in the photo with Past President Kathy Pelz holding one of the guides to the Health Insurance Marketplace of the Affordable Care Act.
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A letter from the President of Rotary
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‘FLIGHT FOR LIFE’ TAMMY CHATMAN EXPLAINS AIR MEDICAL TRANSPORT
Tammy L. Chatman, Public Information Officer for the McHenry Base of 'Flight for Life' explains the vital mission of this life-saving medical helicopter service.
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GUEST SPEAKER NOVEMBER 7TH...
Mary L. Donner, Community Relations Representative for PACE makes a second visit to our club.
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ROTARIANS HEAR “GHOST STORY” FROM SPRING GROVE FIRE CHIEF
The Rotary Club of McHenry welcomed Rich Tobiasz, Fire Chief of Spring Grove, to its Halloween Day meeting.
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THREE MEMBERS HAD HOLIDAY COLOR TO MEETING
"BOO!" This might have been the cry as these three made their entry into the club's Halloween day meeting!
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'PIRATE' PHIL INVADES HALLOWEEN MEETING
'Pirate' Phil Bartmann, sporting an evil looking black eye patch, made his presence known at the October 31st meeting.
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KIM LARSON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, FAMILY ALLIANCE, OCTOBER 10TH PROGRAM
We welcome Kim Larson, Executive Director of Family Alliance, as our program. She is also President of the Woodstock Rotary Club.
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Dozen Club Members Attend Pioneer Center Outing at Stades Farm
Members of the McHenry Rotary Club joined about 80 developmentally challenged adults at Stades Farm 10 miles north of the city for a morning of petting animals, hay rides, pumpkin pickings and many other activities Thursday, September 26th, from 10:30 AM until 2:00 PM/
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RECRUITING ROTARY MEMBERS
Important article by a young Rotarian in the northwest gives excellent points about membership growth.
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SUNRISE ROTARIAN SHARES CLUB PROJECTS WITH THE NOON CLUB
The Rotary Club of McHenry welcomed Adam Diamond, a member of the Rotary Club of McHenry Sunrise, to its noon meeting Thursday, September 12th, at the McHenry Country Club. Adam is shown in the attached photograph with Past President, Kathy Pelz, who presided at this meeting.
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FORMER EXCHANGE STUDENT RETURNS AFTER 30 YEARS
Flavia Susaro, who was an exchange student with our club 30 years ago, attended our regular meeting, Thursday, September 5th, at the McHenry Country Club, and present the program. She is shown between Janice and Phil Bartmann in the attached photograph. She was good friends with their daughter while attending the Johnsburg school.
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District Governor Elect, Ellen Young, visits McHenry Rotary
In an unofficial capacity, desiring to have a make-up, Ellen Young attended out club, Thursday, September 5th, and spoke briefly about her 5 K walk for Rotary Foundation.
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TWO NEW MEMBERS INDUCTED INTO OUR CLUB, THURSDAY, AUGUST 15TH
Denis M. Buch, a local general contractor; and Darren Wagner, Sales Manager for the Elm Street Walgreen's, were both inducted into our club by Assistant District Governor, Don Brewer, at the club meeting, Thursday, August 15th, 12:30 P.M., in the McHenry Country Club.
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Northwest Herald/Letter to the Editor The following was submitted to the Northwest Herald
Rotary Blues Brews & BBQ
To the Editor:
The Rotary Club of McHenry extends a big THANK YOU to the city of McHenry( Administration, Parks & Recreation, Police); McHenry Township Fire Protection Dist.; Corporate Sponsors including Northwest Herald, Gary Lang Auto, Buss Ford, Sunnyside Chrysler; Chas. Herdrich & Son; Rex Towing for Parking; along with many others too numerous to list. We also would like to thank the individuals that attended, along with volunteers, bands and vendors for their support of our 2nd annual event that ran Aug. 2-4 at Petersen Park.
Great music & food, 5K Run for Youth Leadership, BBQ Cook-off, plus perfect summer weather made it a great success. The event allowed Rotary to engage the community and promote the ideals of our 1.2 million global member organization: "Service Above Self". We strive to improve the quality of life of the community every day and 100% of the events proceeds will go to the projects we do. To see in detail what Rotary does, please go to: www.rotary.org
Lastly, thanks to our fellow Rotarians ( and spouses), including the McHenry Sunrise Rotary Club for the hundreds of man hours it took to plan and execute the event.
Sincerely,
Kathy Pelz & Don Tonyan, Event Co-Chairs
Thomas Webb, President
Rotary Club of McHenry |
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DISTRICT GOVERNOR SARAH OLIVER VISITS McHENRY ROTARY
McHenry Rotary among the first visits of District 6440's governor for 2013-14, Sarah Oliver, of the Wilmette Sunrise Rotary Club
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RON AND LINDA BYKOWSKI RECEIVE PAUL HARRIS FELLOW RECOGNITION
District Governor, Sarah Oliver, presented three Paul Harris Fellow recognitions at her visit to our club, Thursday, July 25th.
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THE ROTARIAN - August 2013
Your new "Rotarian" should have arrived in the mail this week. Here are some highlights from this issue.
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TOM WEBB INDUCTED AS PRESIDENT
Photo: L-R, Assistant Governor, Don Brewer; President Tom Webb and his wife, Kathy; and outgoing President, Kathy Pelz, hands the gavel over.
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reel 6-13-13 |
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DREAMBUILDER COACH TOM WENDT ENCOURAGES LIFE WELLNESS
Tom Wendt, of Life Mastery Institute, addressed our club Thursday, June 13th at the McHenry Country Club on discovering your dream life.
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GUEST SPEAKER, MARY DONNER, SETS THE 'Pace" FOR LOCAL TRANSPORTATION
The Rotary Club of McHenry welcomed Mary Donner, Community Relations Representative for Pace a suburban public transportation provider, at our June 6th, club meeting.
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VOCATIONAL SCHOLAR VISITS OUR CLUB
Rotarian Lorraine Kopczynski brought Lance DeRosa (shown in the attached photo) as a guest to our regular Thursday meeting, June 6th.
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Club Welcomes Recent Scholarship Winner
James Vyduna and Terry Hargrove of the Scholarship Committee welcome Danielle Feit to the Club Meeting
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McHenry Rotary Club Meeting - May 9, 2013 |
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McHenry Rotary Club Meeting - May 2, 2013 - McHenry Country Club |
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THE REEL
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TONYAN AT HIS EDI TOR'S WORK
Don Tonyan, Editor of the club e-letter, "The Reel," hard at work jotting down all the information from today's Club Assembly meeting.
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CENTEGRA FOUNDATION PROMOTES WELLNESS THROUGH ‘TELEMONITORING.’
Amy Moerschbaecher, Director of Medical Ancillaries for Centregra Health Systems spoke to the McHenry Rotary Club about a new cutting-edge program to extend medical care to the home.
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CLUB HEARS DR SHINHERR REGARDING SPORTS INJURIES
Dr. David A. Shinherr, DC, Director of Orthopedics and Neurology at the Centegra Health Center, gave an information address to the club today, April 4th, on efforts to curb the concussions and cardiac problems in local sports activities.
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CLUB HEARS TALK ON ADVOCACY FOR DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED YOUTH AND ADULTS
Cindy Sullivan, Executive Director of Options & Advocacy of McHenry County addressed the McHenry Rotary Club recently on the work that her organization does in helping persons with developmental disabilities of all ages.
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SHAVED TO DO "SERVICE ABOVE SELF"
This news release has been sent to the Herald and the Tribune and is shared here as an on-going story about the 'Service Above Self' effort of the McHenry Rotary Club. |
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CLUB LEARNS OF RESOURCE FOR UNINSURED McHENRY CITIZENS
Program Chair, Phil Bartmann, greets Suzanne Hoban NPH, Executive Director of the Family Health Partnership Clinic of McHenry County.
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SPECIAL COMMUNITY RECREATION EFFORTS ARE FEBRUARY 14th, PROGRAM
Brian Shahinian and David Dauphin bring an informative program on the work of the Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA) to the February 14th Club Meeting.
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OUR CLUB LEARNS OF LOCAL HOUSING NEEDS |
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Assistant Governor Brewer Visits Our Club
Donald R Brewer, Assistant Governor and President of the Alqonquin-Lake in the Hill Rotary, attends the January 31st meeting.
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Bill Gates talks about ending polio in IndiaMicrosoft founder Bill Gates has spent the last 18 years giving away his billions. He talks to Matt Lauer about the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation's progress, saying it's vaccine effort has contributed to eradicating polio around the world, but there is still much more to be done. Check out the interview at http://video.today.msnbc.msn.com/today/50637245
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COUNTY DEPUTY TREASURER ADDRESSES THE CLUB
Glenda L. Miller, Chief Deputy Treasurer for McHenry County, Guest Speaker, January 24th
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Club Learns of Local Diaper Bank Ministry
Rev. Phyllis Mueller, Director of the St. Paul's Episcopal Diaper Ministry, Addresses the Club
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2013-14 Theme: Engage Rotary, Change Lives
Rotary International, President-Elect, Ron Burton unveiled the 2013-2014 Rotary International theme during the opening plenary session of the 2013 International Assembly in San Diego, California, USA, the annual training event for incoming district governors.
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ATTENDANCE AWARDS PRESENTED
President Kathy Pelz presents attendance award certificates to three members with significant perfect attendance records.
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Reel January 3, 2013Ahhhhhhhhh.....back to the PLAV!!!!! Pork chops, scallop potatoes, grean beans and cherry cheesecake for dessert. I guess the post-holiday diet will have to wait until March. President Pelz called the meeting to order, assigning opening duties to Tom W. (4-Way Test), Don W. (Song), & Lori (Prayer). Yours truly walked in during the pledge, and it appeared that whoever led did an excellent job. Visitors: Michelle Z. Visiting Rotarians: 0 Calendar update: Jan 4th - Fish Fry - Wind Hill Mar. 17 - St. Pat's Parade April 18 - District Conference B-days/Anniversaries: Bill & Lori - January 8th Announcements: The following rotarians were recognized for their many years of perfect attendence: Don Weingart: 57 years When Don started his perfect attendence streak, this is what was going on in the world: Winston Churchill resigned as prime minister of Great Britain, Richard J. Daley becomes mayor of Chicago, the Salk polio vaccine receives full approval from the FDA, ABC broadcasts a "sneak peek" of Disneyland - which had yet to open, "Gunsmoke" debuts on CBS, actor James Dean is killed in a car accident, in Montgomery, AL Rosa Parks refuses to give up her bus seat to a white passenger and is arrested, and Brian Thoma's mother celebrated her 7th birthday!!!!! Don Arvidson: 48 years Denny Welter: 34 years Mystery Handshaker: Lori Happy Dollars: Lori & Bill (Anniversery), Karen(Mexican trip), Terry (Christmas with grandbaby), Mike(Christmas in FL), and Lorrain (upcoming 3 months in FL) F & F: Chief Tony stumped almost nobody with trivia on significant events in January. Dig a little deeper next week Tony!!! Make-Ups - Denny Welter, Richmond (In a speedo????) Program: Mayor Low gave an update on "what's happening" in McHenry Sullivan Foods deal fell through Possible suiter for the Borders and old Wal-Mart properties Buffalo Wild Wings will be going in next to Olive Garden Dog Park will open next to Kohls Fort McHenry will be refurbished this Spring Reorganization of the Police Dept Admin. Finance - the city's budget is balanced 50/50: No drawing today - We left the marbles at MCC.
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Venue Change |
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ROTARY SPEAKER TOUTS CHANGES IN FUNDING
Walter Reed, a guest speaker from the Wilmette Rotary Harbor Club, addressed the McHenry Rotary Club, Thursday, December 6th, on “The Rotary Foundation: Then, Now, and in the Future.”
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Mitten Ladies attend November 29th Club Meeting
McHenry Rotarians arrived at noon Thursday, November 29th, to find a display of colorful mittens.
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McHENRY ROTARIANS RECEIVE UPDATE ON COUNTY TRANSPORTATION
Joe Korpalski, Director of Transportation for McHenry County, was the guest speaker for the regular noon meeting of the McHenry Rotary Club, Thursday, November 15th, at the McHenry Country Club.
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2012 Stade Farm Event
On a beautiful, brisk and sunny October day, Rotarians and 75 developmentally disabled adults from Pioneer Center and 25 staff spent an afternoon of fall activities at Stades Farm. Everyone enjoyed hayrides and petting zoo. Stades apple cider donuts and a pumpkins were given to all in attendance. This is the second year that the Rotary Club of McHenry has sponsored this event. Rotarians assisted with getting clients on and off the hay wagon and visited with them as they enjoyed the outdoors.
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A Big Thank You! |
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Rotarians to Help Stamp Out Hunger! High winds and extreme heat did not keep area residents from lining up for a food distribution sponsored by McHenry Township and staffed by the Rotary Club of McHenry members and families. The mobile food truck from the Northern Illinois Food Bank brought meat, breads, fresh produce, snack bars and condiments. 10,000 lbs of food was distributed to 125 households (279 adults and 127 children) |
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Ingrid Danler's New AddressIngrid is enjoying her new job and new home in Mad Town. Her new address is 3138 Forest Run Way, Madison, WI 53704 and her home email is itcanbedone13@yahoo.com
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Please Note Change of Venue for Sept. 4th MeetingThe Rotary of McHenry will not be meeting at McHenry Country Club on September 4th. In honor of Rotarian Bill McLemore's 45 Anniversary of being a Rotarian, he is hosting the club (and any visiting Rotarians) to a specially prepared spaghetti luncheon with cake from Riverside Bakery. The celebration will take place at noon at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 3706 W. St. Paul's Avenue, McHenry 60050. St. Paul's Avenue is north of the intersection of Green Street and Charles Miller Road on the west side of Green Street. It is north of Knox Park and the Public Works Building is on the corner. The church is on the right (north side) of the street. |
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ALS Ice Bucket Challenge |
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reel August 7, 2014 |
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Meeting date and venue change for July 31, 2014
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reel July 3 2014 |
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Annual Rotary Bags Tournament during Fiesta Days Sidewalk Sales
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reel 6/27/14 |
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CHALLENGER LEARNING CENTER FEATURED AT McHENRY ROTARY
The Rotary Club of McHenry welcomed Chantel Madson, Executive Director of the Challenger Learning Center in Woodstock, at their regular Thursday noon meeting, June 19th, at the McHenry Country Club. Ms. Madson gave an informative power point presentation beginning with the tragic explosion of the Space Shuttle in 1986 and the effort to honor the deaths of those astronauts with learning centers around the country providing experiences in rocketry, robotics, and space engineering. She noted that our local center last year conducted 300 missions involving 9,000 students. Photo shows Ms. Madson with Club President, Tom Webb. |
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