Events

Bob Blazich is the President of the Mequon-Thiensville Historical Society.  Bob is not a historian, but he is a storyteller who has a very interesting story to tell.

In a fast-paced presentation, Bob will share the modern history of the land our community stands on.  Bob’s story will start about 400 years ago when our community’s land was claimed by both Virginia and Quebec.  You will learn why Chicago is part of Illinois, why the UP is not part of Wisconsin, and what part Thomas Jefferson played in the title of your home’s legal description.  You will also learn why the Town of Mequon rushed to become a city, and why our main roads are exactly one mile apart.

Celebrating our 27 th year, Mel’s Charities’ mission is to provide “Great Times for Great Causes,”
supporting non-profit organizations in Ozaukee County, with a strong emphasis on individuals
with special needs, memorial scholarships, and community impact. The goal has always been to
help others while having fun.

Professional Biography

Dr. Michael Litman is a Professor of Computer Science at Concordia University Wisconsin with more than 26 years of experience in higher education, teaching, research, and technology innovation. His current research focuses on Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing, and the transformative impact these technologies are having on industry, education, and society.

Dr. Litman is the co-founder of the AI & Quantum Innovation Lab at Concordia University Wisconsin, where he works with students, faculty, and industry partners to explore practical applications of next-generation computing technologies. In addition to his academic work, he is actively involved in Wisconsin’s startup ecosystem as an Angel Investor with CU Ventures, helping entrepreneurs and emerging technology companies transform innovative ideas into successful businesses.

Beyond technology and entrepreneurship, Dr. Litman is the founder of a Christian apologetics ministry known as The Quantum Disciple, where he explores and defends the Christian faith through science, logic, philosophy, and emerging technologies. His work seeks to build meaningful dialogue between faith and reason while helping audiences understand the implications of scientific discovery on questions of purpose, truth, and human existence.

Combining academic expertise, entrepreneurial experience, and a passion for innovation, Dr. Litman frequently speaks on Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing, workforce development, emerging technologies, and the future of digital infrastructure.

Presentation Summary

Powering the Future: Data Centers, Artificial Intelligence, and Wisconsin’s Emerging Technology Economy

Artificial Intelligence, cloud computing, and next-generation digital services are driving an unprecedented demand for computing power. At the heart of this transformation are modern data centers, the critical infrastructure that powers everything from online banking and healthcare systems to Artificial Intelligence and future quantum computing platforms.

In this presentation, Dr. Michael Litman will examine the rapid growth of the data center industry and explore why communities across the country are competing to attract these large-scale technology investments. Particular attention will be given to the proposed data center development in Port Washington, Wisconsin, including its potential economic impact, infrastructure requirements, workforce opportunities, energy demands, and strategic importance to the region.

Drawing upon his background in Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing, entrepreneurship, and technology education, Dr. Litman will discuss how data centers serve as the foundation for emerging technologies and why their role will become increasingly important as Artificial Intelligence systems continue to expand. 

A classification talk in Rotary is a brief presentation given by a new member to introduce themselves to the club, sharing both their professional background and personal story. It typically highlights their career or field of expertise, key life experiences, and reasons for joining Rotary, helping fellow members better understand who they are and fostering connection and relationship-building within the club.  Patrick is sponsored by club member Scott Bern.

The Mequon-Thiensville Sunrise Rotary Club Assembly is a working meeting led by the Club President, focused on addressing current and relevant club needs. This session provides an opportunity for members to engage in key club activities, including classification talks for new members, planning and coordination of upcoming events, and participation in committee meetings. The assembly is designed to foster collaboration, strengthen engagement, and ensure the continued effectiveness and growth of the club’s service initiatives.