What was your first experience or awareness of Rotary? It was way back in 1975 as a senior in high school when I accepted an academic recognition from the Rotary club of Milwaukee. It was also my first experience addressing a couple hundred people.
How did you find MT Sunrise and what prompted you to join? After selling our business in 1998 an attorney friend of mine, Joe Fenzel invited me to breakfast when MT was meeting at Columbia St. Mary’s. He said that “it was time to give back”. He was right, but I received way more in return over the last 19 years.
How often do you wear a Rotary pin? I originally only wore my Rotary pin just on Fridays. Later I developed the habit of wearing either a pin or clothing with a Rotary logo on it everyday. That habit has opened many doors, opportunities and friendships over the years. I’m proud to belong to Rotary and I want to show it.
Have you ever attended Rotary International events? Yes I’ve attended 3 international conventions, a membership conference and a peace conference. It’s amazing to be part of an organization that is successfully working to make the world a better place for all.
What do you want to do to give back to Rotary and MT Sunrise? I want to share Rotary with others, so I’m proud to have sponsored 21 members and participated in the formation of 2 Rotary clubs. Financially I support TRF with annual contributions and I am a Bequest Society Member. I’m more than happy to share more over a beverage sometime.