The Elkhorn Rotary Christmas Potluck Dinner on Friday, January 9, 2026 was a fun night of good food, laughter, and fellowship with our Rotarian family. Thank you to all who attended and enjoyed a wonderful evening! Happy New Year!
2025/26 Mid-Year Review
The club got a half-year update from President Katie James on Wednesday, January 5, 2026, where she shared the status of the club's fundraising and donations for the 2025/26 Rotary year. She reminded members about the two separate accounts that the club operates: One that manages the club's operations (i.e. membership dues, lunches, bills, etc.) and one the is exclusive to fundraising, donations received, and community support. These two pools of funds are kept separate to ensure donations are not used for club business.
The club is in a comfortable position on the business side, with $11,556.56 in the Operations account (about a five month reserve). We must pay the upcoming invoice from Rotary International later this month (about $3,000).
The fundraising efforts of the club were tremendous in 2025! The Community Support account gave donations to the City for our Babe Mann Park Pavilion commitment ($8,000; one year left), the EAHS Music Department ($1,000), Foreign Exchange Student program ($1,000), and Texas flooding relief aide ($734). We have about $12,000 remaining: Suggestions given for donations were the World Affairs Seminar, Racine club Belize trip, Walworth County Reading Project, Polio Plus, Rotary Soccer Park, and Cycling Without Age. The Board will consider these options at their January meeting and make recommendations to the club for 2026.
OTHER UPDATES:
Elkhorn Rotary said a fond farewell to Heidi and thanked her for her many years of service to the club. We need a new Secretary... can you take notes at Board meetings, take attendance at meetings, and get the PO Box mail? Please see Katie to assist the club.
Meal on Wheels signups are now open for 2026! See link below or speak to Jon A. on how to sign up.
Ted announced the winner of the Rotary Football pool and awarded Craig with $120! Second place went to Bill. Thanks to all for participating!!!
3rd Quarter Invoices were sent on Monday, January 12th for January-March dues (and meals, if applicable). Please speak to Treasurer Chris C. or check your ClubRunner account to make payments, check invoices, or answer questions regarding your balance.
Help Fill Our Community's Stomachs and Hearts!
Sign ups are now open for the Elkhorn Rotary's 2026 monthly Meals on Wheels shifts. Check your calendar and get first pick of your preferred dates! Volunteer for a 60-minute delivery route to bring smiles and lunch to the Elkhorn community! Can either be done solo or with a buddy. Sign up below with a free Meal Train account or speak directly with Jon A. on how you can help or get training support.
The Impact of the First World War on Rotary’s International Expansion
The First World War had a profound impact on Rotary’s international expansion, representing both a challenge and an opportunity.
During the conflict, Rotary’s growth in Europe slowed significantly.
International communications were disrupted, existing clubs were often isolated, and many Rotarians were mobilized for the war effort, halting development initiatives.
However, the war also strengthened Rotary’s belief in the importance of international understanding and peace.
After the conflict, Rotary experienced rapid expansion, particularly in Europe.
In a continent seeking reconstruction and determined to prevent future wars, Rotary’s ideals of service and international cooperation found strong resonance.
New clubs were established in countries such as France, Germany, and Italy, often with the support of American Rotarians involved in postwar reconstruction.
The war also influenced Rotary’s growing commitment to international humanitarian projects, addressing reconstruction needs and supporting war victims.
This experience reinforced Rotary’s dedication to global peace, positioning it as an early actor in citizen diplomacy and transforming it into a truly international movement.
