4th Annual Holidays in the Park

Posted by Bob Buck on Nov 01, 2023
The 4th Annual Holidays in the Park Christmas Tree Decorating Contest Fundraiser is now under way. The Trees will be harvested and set up in Holmen's Halfway Creek Park.  Organizations, Individuals and Companies can sponsor a tree to decorate. During the month of December votes are made by the public for their favorite tree. The category with the most votes wins. The winner gets a $250 donation made to the Dave and Barb Skogen Boys and Girls Club in their name. The contest kicks off at the end of the Jinglefest Parade on the evening of Dec 2nd and continues until midnight, Dec 31st. Vist the holmenrotary.org website  and click on the Holidays in the Park menu item for full details and links to sponsor a tree.  Rotarians will be on hand Friday and Saturday evenings until 6:30 to receive your votes or vote via Venmo by using  @Holmen-Rotary
 
 
4th Annual Holidays in the Park Bob Buck 2023-11-01 05:00:00Z 0

Giving Tree

Posted by Kristin Beseler on Nov 25, 2022
This morning I put up a Giving Tree for local Holmen families at the Holmen Area Community Center.
I have wanted to give back in this way since I was a little girl. My family went through a hard time when my mother was sick and our community wrapped their hands around us and made sure we had a Christmas. I’ll never forget the feeling of coming home to garbage bags of presents on our doorstep.
Recently I let my Holmen Rotary Club know of my want to do this I had 10 volunteers come up to me to help. Next, I reached out to Aubrey & Karen at the HACC and they quickly joined forces with our club and made all of this come together. I have shed a few thankful tears over this.
If you have it in your heart to help get these families what they need this Christmas please see below.
 
*Stop into the HACC during open hours and grab a tag or two.
Mon - Thurs 7:00- 4:30 and Fri 7:00-3:00
 
*Bring back the gift by Dec. 12th with your tag attached and leave your gift unwrapped under the tree. You may also make a monetary donation and we’ll do the shopping for you!

Address: 600 N Holmen Dr., Suite 200, Holmen WI 54636
 
Giving Tree Kristin Beseler 2022-11-25 06:00:00Z 0

2023 Service Auction Scheduled

Holmen Area Rotary Club will hold this year's Service Auction Fundraiser on Friday evening, May 5th , from 5 to 9, at the Cargill Room at the Waterfront, 332 Front Street South, La Crosse WI 54601.  
 
Tickets are just 30$ in advance or reserve a table for 8 for $275
Contact Judy McHugh at 608-780-1628 to reserve your spot! 
Fantastic food, fellowship and non-stop fun!
 
 
2023 Service Auction Scheduled Bob Buck 2022-02-19 06:00:00Z 0

2019 HARC Service Auction

Posted by Bob Buck on Feb 19, 2019
Save the Date!
 
April 4th is the upcoming date for the Holmen Area Rotary Club's Service Auction. The Service Auction will be held at the Lunda Center at WWTC in La Crosse. 
This event is the clubs biggest fundraiser of the year and provides a majority of the funds that allows the club to do their work in the community. It is a lot of fun! With live auction of unique services and  items, bucket raffles, 50/50 raffles and more. Non-stop action. Appetizers and drink.
 
 
This year's MC will be Dustin Luecke! 
A native of Onalaska, News 19 Daybreak anchor Dustin Luecke has been a part of the WXOW/WQOW family since October 2009. During college, Dustin started working full-time at WQOW in Eau Claire operating the audio equipment for News 18 Daybreak and recording local sports highlights. After graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, Dustin started his career with WXOW as a Weekend Reporter. He transitioned to the role of Weekend Sports Anchor before eventually joining News 19 Daybreak as an Anchor. Dustin said that while the wake-up call is tough, he likes to have an excuse for drinking copious amounts of coffee. Dustin spends much of his free time with his wife, Dominique, and sons, Damian and Dax. He’s an active member of the Rotary After Hours club in La Crosse and enjoys staying involved with community theatre—both on stage and behind the scenes. During the summer, he can often be found on the area’s many great golf courses. He’s also becoming an avid curling enthusiast during the long Wisconsin winters. If you have a story you’d like to share, feel free to contact Dustin at 507-895-9890 or dluecke@wxow.com.
 
 
 
Tickets $20 are in advance. Buy a table for 8 and get drink tickets, table candy and a table tent with your company name on it for only $200. 
 
 
 
Sponsorship Options are available!
 
In return for your support, your company’s name and logo will be prominently posted at the entrance, in our program, on the tables and on the large screen prior to the event starting. Additionally, if you would like to attend we will provide complimentary tickets for you and your guests. Just let us know how many you would like.
 
 
 
To get tickets or become a sponsor please contact Judy at Judymchugh@msn.com or call (608) 780-1628  
2019 HARC Service Auction Bob Buck 2019-02-19 06:00:00Z 0

iFEED Feeds

Posted by Bob Buck on Dec 19, 2018
iFeed November 3rd 2018 - Team HARC helped fill 101,088 meals that are on their way to Nicaragua to feed hungry children. Over 35,000 food items were collected to fill the shelves at local food pantries thriough the Hunger Task Force. Way to go Team HARC! 
iFEED Feeds Bob Buck 2018-12-19 06:00:00Z 0

New Governor Visits HARC

Posted by Bob Buck on Jul 26, 2018
Wednesday's Holmen Area Rotary Cub meeting's highlight was a visit from Rotary District 6250's new Governor Bill Hoel and Assistant Governor Pat Boge. Bill spent some time going over the future focus of Rotary. Polio eradication is still Rotary International's prime focus. There were over 350,000 cases a year when Rotary took on the massive task of trying to eradicate the disease. So far this year there have been only 12 cases. Rotary will stay focused until the virus is gone. That means not only no more cases in the human population but no live virus detected for 3 years. Bill also expressed thanks for the amount of work done by the Holmen Area Rotary Club and said that we should be proud of the efforts the club has done in the community and for humanity. And that we should share that pride and "Be The Inspiration" for others. Thanks for coming and sharing with the club Bill and Pat! We look forward to doing some great things together in the new year. For more info on how Rotary makes a difference in the world go to https://www.rotary.org
 
New Governor Visits HARC Bob Buck 2018-07-26 05:00:00Z 0

2018 Rock-n-Ribs Epilogue

Posted by Adam Fleis on Jun 27, 2018
Holy Cow did we have fun Rotary Rock N Ribs! From the BBQ to the BASS, Bands and Great Friends! We had some amazing partners and many Team Members all work so hard for this!
 
2018 Rock-n-Ribs Epilogue Adam Fleis 2018-06-27 05:00:00Z 0

Traveling to Thailand

Posted by Bob Buck on Jun 27, 2018
On Wednesday June 27th, the Holmen Area Rotary Club were privy to Holmen High School Student Anja Houghtaling's  draft of her origin's presentation. No, you are not having de ja vue. Anja is Zoe Houghtaling's sister. Anja will be traveling to Thailand to live with a host family for a year and Zoe heads to Brazil. Anja's stay will be in the mountainous Chiang Mai province in the northwest corner of the country. Both leave in August.  Mom Tracy said this about her sudden empty nest " First, I will have a major breakdown, then try and find out who I am again."  Anja's presentation includes information about herself, her family, activities and interests along with interesting local information. These presentations can be given in the host country to the local rotary club, school etc. when the student arrives. Anja has been boning up on the Thai language and customs so that she can converse with the locals. We wish Anja a safe and wonderful adventure!
 
Traveling to Thailand Bob Buck 2018-06-27 05:00:00Z 0

Spring Road Clean-up  

Posted by Bob Buck on Apr 29, 2018
On Saturday, April 28th, the Holmen Area Rotary Club and Holmen Interact Club got together and did their semi-annual road clean-up. Once the snow finally melted, the massive amount of litter emerged. Clean-up took a little longer this time, due to the heavy amount of debris strewn through the ditches. There were 24 trash bags filled due to the group's efforts. 
Thank you to all those that showed up on a windy day to fill up trash bags! Holmen looks better for it.
Spring Road Clean-up Bob Buck 2018-04-29 05:00:00Z 0

Community Garden Workday

Posted by Bob Buck on Apr 29, 2018
 
The Holmen Community Garden lost it's stealth status over the weekend. The shed got painted in Lion's and Rotary Colors and is a real eye catcher. The raised beds were set and planning done to get the ground fertilized and turned by the end of next weekend. We'll be planting soon! Thanks to all that participated!
 
Community Garden Workday Bob Buck 2018-04-29 05:00:00Z 0

Water Project Update

Posted on Apr 25, 2018
 
Art Lyons spoke this morning about past international projects and current efforts being done on behalf of the Holmen Area Rotary Club. Providing clean water is one of the 6 main missions of Rotary. According to Rotary International, "Clean water, sanitation, and hygiene education are basic necessities for a healthy environment and a productive life. When people have access to clean water and sanitation, waterborne diseases decrease, children stay healthier and attend school more regularly, and mothers can spend less time carrying water and more time helping their families." 
It all started 8 years ago with HARC establishing a contact with a Rotary Club La Molina in Peru and utilizing Water Missions International's expertise to start a project to provide 220 sand filters to a community in need. The initial project was possible by taking advantage of Rotary's ability to amplify funds through Rotary grants. The $7K from HARC  was matched by the Rotary District office and again matched by Rotary International to fund a $25K project. This project was very successful and used as a template by other Rotary Clubs to further fulfill the need. Ultimately 5000 of these special sand filters have been installed into Peruvian households. For info on the Peruvian water filter project watch the video at https://player.vimeo.com/video/33735494
In 2017, the Holmen Area Rotary Club partnered with the Lakewood Ranch Rotary Club to assist with their $50K Peruvian water project in the community of Ivan Vasquez. The project includes a central, solar powered treatment facility and Rotary's WASH hygiene education program. The facility becomes a public utility for sustainability in the community. The project for 2018 is to continue to partner with the Lakewood Ranch Rotary Club and establish a similar solar powered treatment facility for the Peruvian community of Monte Castillo. Monte Castillo is a larger community of 12,000 people with a school and clinic. This project carries a $80K price tag but is again possible through the ability to take initial donations and increase them through available Rotary grants.   To learn more about Rotary's water projects go to https://www.rotary.org/en/our-causes/providing-clean-water .  
Water Project Update Bob Buck 2018-04-25 05:00:00Z 0

No Office - Office Party was a blast!

 
On Friday night , February 9th, the Holmen Area Rotary Club sponsored a wild party at the Legion. The participants ate at the Taco Bar, consumed various drinks, shook their bootees dancing, played games of questionable skill and listened to fabulous music from the Shufflin' Duprees. The focus of the event was to have fun but to also entice new folks to become interested in Rotary. It was a blast for all who came and surely a sad day if you missed it!
 
No Office - Office Party was a blast! 2018-02-14 06:00:00Z 0

2018 HARC Service Auction

Posted by Bob Buck on Jan 31, 2018
Save the Date!
 
April 12th is the upcoming date for the Holmen Area Rotary Club's Service Auction. The Service Auction will be held at the Lunda Center at WWTC in La Crosse. 
This event is the clubs biggest fundraiser of the year and provides a majority of the funds that allows the club to do their work in the community. It is a lot of fun! With live auction of unique services and  items, bucket raffles, 50/50 raffles and more. Non-stop action. Appetizers and drink.
 
 
Master of Ceremonies Brad Dinsmoor
Brad got his start in1983 as a radio journalist at Midwest Family Broadcasting in La Crosse.  After serving several years as both a program director and news director, Brad moved into sales and marketing where he has spent over 32 years working with local, regional, and national businesses providing creative and multichannel marketing strategies. Brad often serves a project manager developing budgets and managing all communication and timelines with his marketing teams. Brad works with organizations to develop meaningful relationships with media organizations to foster earned media opportunities in an increasingly competitive environment for non-paid media support. Brad has served on numerous boards and committees for several nonprofit organizations over the years, in addition to emceeing various fundraising events. In his free time, Brad enjoys sailing, downhill skiing, waterskiing and biking.
 
 
Tickets $20 are in advance. Buy a table for 8 and get drink tickets, table candy and a table tent with your company name on it for only $180. 
 
 
See the list of 2018 items being offered so far....http://holmenarearotary.org/Page/2018-service-action-highlights
 
Sponsorship Options are available!
 
In return for your support, your company’s name and logo will be prominently posted at the entrance, in our program, on the tables and on the large screen prior to the event starting. Additionally, if you would like to attend we will provide complimentary tickets for you and your guests. Just let us know how many you would like.
 
Sponsorship Levels:
$   250.00 (includes 2 tickets)
$   500.00 (includes 4 tickets)
$1,000.00 (includes 8 tickets)
 
To get tickets or become a sponsor please contact Sue at sueamalin@gmail.com or call 608-792-2399  
 
2018 HARC Service Auction Bob Buck 2018-01-31 06:00:00Z 0

Lobsterfest

Posted by Bob Buck on Jan 11, 2018
Think cold drinks and good food....
 
                                                                           ....... is almost here!
Order NOW as these little buggers will need time to get through TSA and get on the plane to make it here in time! 
 
LaCrosse Rotary East Club's 2nd Annual Lobsterfest at Colgan Air will be held Friday, June 15th from 4:00 to 10:00 PM. The fresh lobsters come right off the plane and in to the pot. There will be live entertainment.  All Lobster Dinner tickets are advance purchase only.  (But you don't need to purchase a Lobster Dinner Ticket to attend.)  Alternate food and beverage options will be available for purchase the day of the event. Money raised by the event will go to development of the Adaptive Pathways at Chad Erickson Memorial Park.   To get your lobster dinner tickets go to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lobsterfest-tickets-40798770220
Lobsterfest Bob Buck 2018-01-11 06:00:00Z 0

Rotary Lights 2017

Posted by Bob Buck on Nov 27, 2017
Tis Rotary Lights Season!
On Sunday November 26th, the Holmen Area Rotary Club and Rotary Club of La Crosse East volunteered to work the Rotary Lights, La Crosse. Rotary Lights is a cooperative effort among the area's Rotary Clubs, numerous other non-profit groups and volunteer organizations and sponsors. Over 4 million lights, Santa workshop, live nativity scene and more. Admission is free but a donation in cash or food item is greatly appreciated. Over 250,000 food items are donated by his event every year to the area's food pantries. To learn more check them out at http://www.rotarylights.org/
 
 
 
Rotary Lights 2017 Bob Buck 2017-11-27 06:00:00Z 0

Thanksgiving Dinners for New Horizon

Posted by Bev Rott/Bob Buck on Nov 21, 2017
The Holmen Area Rotary Club members donated and shopped to provide shelter clients a Thanksgiving meal. 10 families sponsored by New Horizons will receive a bag containing the ingredients to create a traditional Thanksgiving meal. The New Horizons Shelter and Outreach Centers are a shelter for individuals and families who have experienced domestic violence. Their mission is to  provide safety and services to adults and families who have experienced domestic and sexual abuse so that they can make decisions about their lives in a supportive, nonjudgmental and empowering atmosphere. They answered over 2100 calls to their crisis hot line and sheltered almost 200 men, women and children with almost 11,000 nights of shelter in 2016. Providing these Thanksgiving meals allows some of the displaced to feel a small sense of normalcy. Along with the meals, the Rotary Club also provided a box of miscellaneous individual toiletries and gift cards. 
To learn more about New Horizons visit them at http://www.nhagainstabuse.org/
Thanksgiving Dinners for New Horizon Bev Rott/Bob Buck 2017-11-21 06:00:00Z 0

Community Garden Update

Posted by Bob Buck on Nov 09, 2017
 
A hard freeze has put an end to any outdoor Community Garden activities, giving us time to reflect on how the year went and make plans for the future.
Thank you ! to all the volunteers that took time to help out.
This was the first year for the Community Garden in Holmen and a lot of experience gained during the year. The Garden is a joint effort between the Holmen Lion's Club, the Holmen Area Rotary Club and Gundersen Hospital. The garden is located on the North side of Holmen off of Holmen Drive. Approximately 1/2 acre was planted and over 2700 pounds of produce was harvested and distributed over the year. Most of the produce was taken to the local food pantry at St. Elizabeth's, offered during the public lunch at the Village Hall, during Holmen's Hope with some being taken to Hunger Task Force in La Crosse.  This was a successful start but there were plenty of lesson's learned. When to plant, what to plant, what was accepted by recipients, what grew best and what didn't, how to distribute the harvest, watering management, lack of volunteers when needed and weeds. A meeting was held recently between the members of the Holmen Area Rotary Club Community Service Committee and members of the Holmen Lion's Club to discuss the garden and exchange information. Already there are plans being formulated to go at it again next year, bigger and better.  Some of the ideas/plans going forward- 
  • Increase size of the available plot.
  • Fix up and paint the shed.
  • For fall-early spring have soil tested, plowed, add compost/fertilizer.
  • Increase the number of available volunteers, especially during mid to late May. Direct appeal to create opportunities- for area church groups, youth to fulfill community service hours, etc.
  • Be on the lookout for needed materials- inexpensive fencing for tomato cages, straw or used silo bags to keep weeds down.
  • Improve management of volunteers with easy to follow garden structure and accessible priority task list on site.  
  • More focused mix of plantings.
I am sure 2018 will be a better year for the Community Garden and the people that it will help. Even if you think you have a brown thumb, consider becoming a Community Garden sponsor or volunteer. 
 
Community Garden Update Bob Buck 2017-11-09 06:00:00Z 0

I-FEED Puts Dent in World Hunger

Posted by Bob Buck on Nov 08, 2017
What is I-FEED?
I-FEED is an annual Rotary event that focuses on supplying food locally and to other parts of a hungry world. This year's event was November 4th at Logan High School in La Crosse Wisconsin. Hundreds of people showed up to participate. There were 36 teams of 12 people each that spent their Saturday packing basic meals that are easy to heat and eat. The Holmen Area Rotary Club sponsored three teams, two Holmen High School Interact teams and one adult club team.  Each team mans a table and has to measure and fill ingrediants in each bag, heat seal it and create the master carton of 36 meals. The action is fast and furious, with people cheering the teams on. Money collected goes to purchase the basic meal ingredients. The meal consists of a combination of rice, soy, dried vegetables and a vitamin enriched protein powder.  Each meal bag can feed 6 people.  The teams packed a total of 77,000 meals for distribution. The meals were originally destined for Nicaragua.  However  this year, on short notice, 21,000 of the meals  were trucked to Minneapolis and  put on a Delta flight to  Puerto Rico to help with hurricane relief efforts there. Also as part of the event, non-perishable food items were collected. During I-FEED 2017, 26,300 food items were collected and donated to the Hunger Task Force. The Hunger Task Force is a supply resource for the area's food pantries. 
 
 
I-FEED Puts Dent in World Hunger Bob Buck 2017-11-08 06:00:00Z 0

Hot Time at Chili Contest

Posted by Bev Rott on Oct 31, 2017
On Saturday October 28th, Holmen's Hope had their First Annual Chili and Mac-n-cheese contest. Holmen's Hope is a local charitable organization strongly supported by the Holmen Area Rotary Club. The event drew a large crowd to sample the 13 Chili and 4 Mac-N-Cheese entries. The recipes were tasted and judged by Professional Kansas City Barbecue Society Judges along with a 'Peoples Choice' award, voted on by the public tasting the various fare.  
Silent Auction, Bucket Raffle, Root beer floats added to the fun! Over $8000 was collected by Holmen's Hope for their school backpack program. 
The winners were;
Chili
People’s Choice - Donna Lombard (Late Entry)
KCBS-
1st place  –Eric Davidson (Team Journey)
2nd place –Trinity Drugg (Texas Roadhouse)
3rd place- Andy Niles (Holmen Marine)
 
Mac n Cheese
People’s Choice- Dave Pehl (Dad Can Cook)
KCBS-
1st Place – Features Holmen (HHS National Honor Society)
2nd Place- Dave Pehl (Dad Can Cook)
3rd Place – Al Sauerwein (Big Al’s Ghetto Hop)
 
For more information on Holmen’s Hope or how you can help, please check out The Holmen's Hope Facebook page
Or contact Bev Rott @beverly2611@gmail.com
Hot Time at Chili Contest Bev Rott 2017-10-31 05:00:00Z 0

Another Highway Cleanup is History

Posted by Bob Buck on Oct 30, 2017
 
Wow! Even with the cold weather and blowing wind, the participation in the highway cleanup on Saturday was phenomenal. Because there were so many volunteers, the job was completed an hour earlier than was done in the past. "Thank you" to all who participated,  with a special "Thank you" to all the Holmen High School Interact Students that woke up early on a blustery day to make our community cleaner.  
 
 
Another Highway Cleanup is History Bob Buck 2017-10-30 05:00:00Z 0

Sense of Accomplishment on Habitat Day

Posted by Bob Buck on Oct 23, 2017
Saturday October 21st, Holmen Area Rotary Club Members pitched in to help with the Habitat for Humanity-La Crosse Area 5th and Mississippi street project. Dodging raindrops, an erosion barrier and safety fence were erected, floors cleaned, cabinets moved, windows cleaned, shelves built and painted and many more tasks were completed. The HARC shared the day on site with the Ladies on Ladders Group from the La Crosse Area. They swing a mean hammer. Good Luck to Sue and Andi and their trip to a Habitat build in Cambodia! A group from the Holmen High School Rotary Interacters also took part, breaking a sweat for a good cause. By the end of the day everyone left dirty and tired with a sense of real accomplishment. Thanks to those that participated and hope you can join again next time. For more info about Habitat and the La Crosse build please visit http://www.habitatlacrosse.org/.
Sense of Accomplishment on Habitat Day Bob Buck 2017-10-23 05:00:00Z 0

India Connection

Posted by Bob Buck on Aug 25, 2017
अभिवादन करना (Welcome) Pranav!
 
On August 14th, Pranav Waghanna came to Holmen from India as part of the Rotary Youth Exchange program. Exchanges for students 15 to 19 years old are sponsored by Rotary clubs in more than 100 countries. Students that participate in the Exchange Program learn leadership skills, make new long lasting friendships, learn a new culture and language and become truly global citizens. Pranav will be staying with a local host family and starting the academic year at Holmen High school in the fall. 
 
At the Wednesday August 23rd Holmen Area Rotary Club meeting Pranav was officially recognized and exchanged his home town Rotary banner for a Holmen banner with Jason Munz, current club President.  
 
Let's engage with Pranav and learn about the Indian culture. And also show him the best that the Holmen Area, Wisconsin and this Country has to offer. 

 
 
India Connection Bob Buck 2017-08-25 05:00:00Z 0

Deerwood Park Shelter Commemoration

Posted by Bob Buck on Aug 21, 2017
 
 
 
 
The Holmen Area Rotary Club with the help of myriad sponsors, built an open air picnic shelter in Deerwood Park. The shelter is conveniently located between two of the baseball fields and should provide shelter to gathering groups from the sun and rain for many years to come.  Permits for events to use the shelter can be obtained from the Holmen Village Hall. On Wednesday night August 30th, 2017 from 6:00 to 8:00, the Holmen Area Rotary Club and guests will gather at the shelter to commemorate it being built. If you plan to attend please bring a side dish/dessert to pass.
 

 
 
Deerwood Park Shelter Commemoration Bob Buck 2017-08-21 05:00:00Z 0

E_CYCLE

Posted on Aug 11, 2017
SAVE THE DATE - SAVE THE PLANET!
 
Bring us your tired, your poor, your broken television sets, radios, computers and tablets
 
Holmen Area Rotary Club with help from Thrivent Financial is hosting an E-CYCLE event September 9th from 9:00 to Noon at McHugh Excavating site on 35 just south of Route 53 . Devices accepted will be recycled in an environmentally responsible way. 
  • Electronic recycling of Computers, Microwaves, TVs (even the big honking projection ones if you can get them there!), small appliances, tablets, radios, boom boxes, monitors etc.
    • Small fee for Monitors($10) and TVs ($15)
    • Note- Devices containing refrigerant (ie.dehumidifiers, refrigerators, air conditioners) and large appliances (ie. washers, dryers, ranges) can not be accepted. 
  • Coupons for Free BACK TO SCHOOL Haircuts
  • Bring Non-Perishable food or make a cash donation to Holmen's Hope 
  • Take away some fresh produce from the Holmen Community Garden

 
E_CYCLE 2017-08-11 05:00:00Z 0

The Yellow Squash are winning!

Posted by Bob Buck on Aug 09, 2017
 
 
Come help us battle the attack of the squash! Every day they seem to multiply! They need to be eaten!
Send us your best yellow squash recipe so we know how best to battle them. Or better yet, stop by and take some home. 
 
Check out Recipes to date under "Read more..."
 
UPDATE - As of today (Sept 13) the Holmen Community Garden has produced and distributed over 1500 pounds of food.

 
The Yellow Squash are winning! Bob Buck 2017-08-09 05:00:00Z 0

Community Garden Update

Posted by Bob Buck on Jul 12, 2017
The Community Garden is starting to produce. The first veggies were picked this week and set out for distribution. The initial hard work is starting to pay off but to stay ahead of the weeds will require additional volunteers.  Regular work nights are Tuesdays and Thursday evenings 6:00 to 8:00 but if you can't make those times you can stop by anytime and weed a row or two. 
 
 
The garden is located between Green Mound Cemetery and Route 35 off of Bluffview Drive. For more info contact Tom Knobloch of the Holmen Area Rotary Club or John Oliver of the Holmen Lion's Club.
Community Garden Update Bob Buck 2017-07-12 05:00:00Z 0

Rock-N-Ribs Epilogue

Posted by Bob Buck on Jul 01, 2017
Rock-N-Ribs 2017
Smashing Success
 
Thank You to all the participants and attendees of this years Rock-N-Rib Fest! The 2017 Rock-N-Ribs Competition June 23rd and June 24th was a great success for the La Crosse Valley View Rotary and the Holmen Area Rotary Clubs. The event saw an increase in participation and drew huge crowds. The list of Winners of the cooking competitions can be seen at www.rotaryrocknribs.com. The food was hot and tasty and the musical talent was spectacular. Minneapolis cover band Hairball gave one heck of a show on Friday night. Not only was the music fantastic, but the constant costume changes to emulate the lead singer of the covered band were phenomenal!
If you missed it this year, make sure you set aside the time for Rock-n-Ribs 2018. 
 
 
Rock-N-Ribs Epilogue Bob Buck 2017-07-01 05:00:00Z 0

Holmen Community Garden

Posted by Bob Buck on Jun 09, 2017
"Only two things that money can't buy and that's true love and homegrown tomatoes" - John Denver
 
Holmen Community Garden
 
The Holmen Community  took a step in fighting hunger by breaking ground on a new Community Garden on the north side of town. The garden is a collaborative effort between Gunderson Hospital, The Holmen Lions Club and the Holmen Area Rotary Club. On June 8th, representatives from Gunderson, The Holman Lions and the Holmen Area Rotary Club gathered to dedicate the garden and do a little planting. Food from the garden will go to those in need through direct donation or local food pantry. For those wanting to help out, work nights are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 8 PM. The garden is located between Green Mound Cemetery and Route 35 off of Bluffview Drive. For more info contact Tom Knobloch of the Holmen Area Rotary Club or John Oliver of the Holmen Lions. 
Holmen Community Garden Bob Buck 2017-06-09 05:00:00Z 0
Rock-N-Ribs Update June 1 Bob Buck 2017-06-01 05:00:00Z 0

2017 Auction a success

2017 Service Auction a Success!
 
 
Auction night was one of fun, great food and large hearts. The Holmen Area Rotary Club would like to thank all of those that participated. By stepping up, your generous actions help provide the funds that keep the Rotary Club and their good works rolling. Overall there was a 30% increase in donations over last years event. This raises the bar for next year but the club enjoys a good challenge.  Hope to see you there!
2017 Auction a success 2017-05-04 05:00:00Z 0
Rock-N-Ribs Update Buck 2017-03-14 05:00:00Z 0

Rock-n-Ribs for 2017

Posted on Mar 14, 2017

Rock-n-Ribs 2017!!!

 
 
Holy Smokes! Time for great eats and beats - This year Rock-n-Ribs events include;
  • MARCH 17-18th - World Famous Travis Clark (Multi-Award winning Clark Crew BBQ from Yukon OK) Cooking Class  - (Didn't make it? - It was Awesome! - next time )
  • APRIL 29th -  First Steak Cookoff Association Judge's Class -  Become a Judge- taste all the different entries!
  • June 23rd - Kids Q Competition, GrillMasters/PitMasters, Steak Cook-off, Dave Rogers Blues Band, The Retro Specz
  • June 24th - Pulled Pork Competition, VIP Rib Competition, Kansas City Barbeque Society State Championship, Stand-Alone Backyard Cook-Off, Mystery Ingredient Competition, Gregg Hall and the Wrecking Ball, The Blue Olives
Don't Miss it- You'll be hungry if you do!
 
Feel Free to visit the website:  www.rotaryrocknribs.com
Rock-n-Ribs for 2017 Buck 2017-03-14 05:00:00Z 0

2017 Rotary Service Auction

Posted by Buck on Feb 24, 2017
Latest Auction Action Update !
Holmen Area Rotary Club 2017 Service Auction
 
Along with the Purple Pinkie, multiple raffles, bucket raffle, food and drink, the following Live Auction items have been announced for the April 20th 2017 Service Auction:

Live Auction Items

 

Del Congos de Uvita Costa Rica baby! –

  

Imagine sandy beaches, tropical splendor, luxurious accommodations! This all can be yours! The Auction item is for 1 week stay at a luxurious 3 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom, mansion in Uvita area of Costa Rica. Million dollar Pacific ocean view from a custom built home with largest infinity edge pool in Uvita Area and less than 1/2 mile as the Toucan flies from the Ocean. Privacy on over 13 acres with 35 foot waterfall and only 2.5 miles to shopping, restaurants and bank plus added security of staff living on grounds in another house. The 3,500 sf Kincaid design home has the most incredible ocean views from every room including master suite shower. Home is surrounded by exotic gardens with over 500 tropical flowering plants and fruit trees. All furniture is custom made ,several wood carvings ,custom Italian Tile work throughout. Grounds and house are meticulously maintained by our maid/gardener/security guard. A guest house that could sleep an additional 4 persons is available for additional cost.  Check it out at You Tube- https://youtu.be/e_dQVzwfX2I . Truly an amazing opportunity! Scott Ryan

GOURMET CAKES- One of many delectable gourmet cakes can be yours, if the price is right. These are way more better than your mama's and not the usual 'cake walk' fare. Choose from Red Velvet, Almond Raspberry, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Lemon Poppyseed or Dark Chocolate Strawberry. Can’t decide on which one? Maybe you want to buy two! Plates and forks are included so eat it here or take it home to enjoy! Judy McHugh

PARTY TO GO -How about a fun night with you and 9 friends? We arrive with libations and hot and cold appetizers. We bring the basics and mixes, plastic cups, plates, napkins, silverware and serving dishes and clean up the kitchen when we are done. You just provide the place and the guests. Let us do the rest. (4 hour limit). Bev Rott, Cory Berget, and Jason Munz

FOOD NETWORK STARS ITALIAN FEAST FOR SIX.- A complete four course Italian dinner for 8 using exceptional recipes from five different TV personalities. This evening will begin by enjoying a bowl of Mario Batali’s Italian Chicken Soup, followed by Barefoot Contessa’s Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad. Tyler Florence’s Braised Beef Braciole will be served alongside of Giada De Laurentiis’ baked Orzo. The dinner will be completed by serving Sandra Lee’s Kahlua Tiramisu. Complimentary wines will be included. The evening will conclude with some Rotarian fellowship while sipping some ice cold Limon cello liqueur. Truly an evening to remember!  Jim Spencer

SMOKING WHISKEY WEEKEND-Whiskey and Cigars!!! How much better can it get? A few of us got together and asked what would make the best guys weekend ever? After excluding all illegal or immoral ideas, we were left with two things: really good whiskey and really good cigars. The winner of this item will receive premium whiskey from 3 different countries, a selection fine medium bodied cigars and accessories. Designed to be shared with a few really good friends, although you might just want to hole up and enjoy it all yourself! Adam Fleis, Tom Knobloch, Art and Vicki Lyons

10 TASTES OF PERU- For 6-8 people. All of the recipes were brought back from our three trips to set- up and evaluate the Holmen Area Rotary Club’s water project in Peru. Tasty, yet exotic full menu of Peruvian delicacies!  Next best thing to being there. Nancy and Dean McHugh

LET ME MOW YOUR LAWN ALL SUMMER- A Holmen Rotarian will take care of mowing your lawn in the La Crosse, Holmen or Onalaska area for three consecutive months this summer. You decide on the months and leave it up to Scott. Maximum yard size 1 acre. (Service includes lawn equipment, fuel and labor.) Scott Ryan

MOTHERS CAR SPA DAY- Car beat up after a winter of slush and snow? A Holmen Rotarian will wash, polish and wax your car, SUV, van, or pick-up (no semi's please), clean the tires and wheels, wash the windows,  vacuum up the Cheetos from between the seats and clean and treat the leather/vinyl.  All using high quality MOTHERS California Gold wash, clay, polish, wax, tire/wheel cleaner, upholstery solutions and equipment. The winner gets to go home with any of the remaining MOTHERS products. Bob Buck

SALSA GARDEN- You don’t have to climb the wall to Mexico for great salsa! You can grow and make your own. Barry and Kristin Gardeners (M and M) Extraordinaire will come to your home and build a 4X4 raised bed garden that includes; organic composted soil, tomato plants, mild and hot pepper plants, cilantro and onions. Everything right in your back yard required to make fantastically fresh salsa! Barry Miller and Kristin Mueller

BACHELOR/BACHELORETTE LIMO CRUISE WITH COCKTAILS - (For those 21 and over) For you and 6+ of your friends, a luxury Limo, stocked with your choice of cocktails for the evening! (Really- no one has to get married to bid on this) . Barry Ploessl

THE EASE OF ELEGANCE DINNER- Arrive in casual dress but dine in elegance.  Dinner, drinks, and lots of fun and laughter for six.  The evening will begin outdoors by the fireplace with homemade margaritas and tasty hors d' oeuvres.  Later we'll gather in the dining room to continue your evening with a gourmet meal, wine and, of course, a scrumptious dessert. When the evening does end, you won't be going home empty handed as you'll be taking home any leftovers and a special dessert, made just for you.  This way you'll be able to enjoy the same great food the next day and remember just how much fun you and your friends had over at my home.  Jackie Jensen-Utz

KILLER DRONE SESSION- Get High Def video and pics of your home, wedding, party, construction site, BBQ, family reunion, etc.  from the air! The possibilities are endless! Up to 4 hours includes travel and set up. This is our $1000.00 pkg. We provide HD video or pictures with the very best equipment on the market (DGI Phantom4- Samsung Gear 360 camera for Virtual Reality). You get a digital file of all the filming. If you “BUILD A WALL” we will fly over it!! By Bigshot studios. James Gross

WINE BUY- Buy a cork, match it to a bottle and take that bottle home!. Larry Bodin 

WINE TOUR- Chris Butler

 

Bucket Raffle Items

Attorney  Services – Will, Durable Power of Attorney and Medical Power of Attorney- $100/min Sonja Davig.

Fine Art by Art Anderson- Two beautiful prints perfect for any office, study or living room.  Edward Davig.

Bloody Mary Basket- All the fixins for truly phenomenal Bloody Mary. Matt Cromheecke

“Take a look at Holmen Basket” – Locally sourced items for a truly amazing experience. Nancy Proctor

Coloring Book Basket Coloring Book Basket – Children and adult coloring books that will keep you and yours entertained for hours.  Justin Bodin

Pamper Me Basket- Basket of goodies to make you feel good. Peg Knobloch and Sue Maline

Quilt by Michelle Henderson - Hours of hard work are clearly evident in this beautiful hand made work of art. Donated by Art and Vickie Lyons daughter, Michelle Henderson

Brewer Basket- Your favorite Wisconsin Baseball team items and tickets.

Golf Lovers Basket- Get ready for warm weather! A basketful of golf goodies guaranteed to take strokes off your game (or at least make you feel like a pro!) Kathy Reinolt

PIES - no, not squirrel pie but pie to die for(no foolin!) and 4 doz. Homemade, best ever choc chip cookies. Scott Marshall

 
 

 

 

2017 Rotary Service Auction Buck 2017-02-24 06:00:00Z 0

Holmen Area Rotary Celebrates 10th Anniversary Year

While many folks are starting the second half of their calendar year on July 1, the Holmen Area Rotary Club is beginning their fiscal year.  Not only is July 1 the first day of Rotary’s fiscal year, this date marks the beginning of this relatively young club’s 10th Anniversary Year.

 

The Holmen Area Rotary club consists of approximately 35 members, including business owners, community leaders, retirees and spouses, school administration, insurance, financial advisors, real estate brokers and many more unique classifications.

 

Rotary represents greater than 1.2mm individuals around the world, making them the largest single service organization in the world.  Rotary’s motto is “Service Above Self” but can readily be described in six words:  Join Leaders, Share Ideas and Take Action.  Speaking of Taking Action, “Our club is very active both locally and internationally”, exclaimed Adam Fleis, the club’s president during the 10th Anniversary year.  

 

Community projects completed/ongoing include Holmen’s Hope Community Dinner, Spring Community clean up, Highway 35 road-side clean-up, a 4-sided clock located in Halfway Creek Park, purchase of a Holmen Police K-9 Dog, Camp Decorah Boy Scout Camp restoration, Summer lunches in the Park, Respect Retreat and STRIVE Program (Holmen High School mentorship programs), as well as Holmen High School Scholarships, just to mention a few of the local community projects this club has accomplished in its nine years.  And community projects are not all this club does annually.  “We host over a half dozen ‘social events’ throughout the year at various venues to promote comradery and to have good fellowship”, remarked Bryan Helgeson, club appointed social director.  “One project we are currently working on and are excited to say are very close to finalizing the fundraising portion of the project is our Deerwood Park shelter”, Helgeson went on to say.  This will be a $40,000 shelter project and will be donated to the Village of Holmen.

 

Internationally, this club has supported several clean water projects in multiple villages in Peru as well as a central water system and private family restrooms in another community.  These projects are accomplished through collaboration with Water Missions International in one instance and directly through a local Rotary Club in Lima Peru by providing education and funding for the construction of Bio Sand Filters.  “Clean water is something we all take for granted”, indicated Dean McHugh, Rotary District 6250 District Governor and club member, “and now, villages in Peru have experienced what it is to be able to drink a glass of water without concern for contamination”.   Outside of clean water in Peru, our club has assisted in providing financing to purchase a cow for a community school facility in Kenya.  And another international project is our ongoing support for both incoming and outgoing foreign exchange students at the high school level.

 

“So the projects just described do not just happen,” Fleis said, “the club accomplishes these projects primarily through three annual fundraising events – a Club Member Service Auction in the Spring, Rock ‘n Ribs Competition in the Summer and a Green Bay Packer Raffle in the Fall.”

 

Rotary has a Foundation that all clubs and individual members support financially.  The funds received by the Rotary Foundation are used for many goodwill projects around the world, the eradication of Polio being the primary project.  However, a portion of those funds are redirected back to area clubs in the form of Grants to support various club projects.  As a result of this club’s fundraising, collaboration with other clubs financial supporting our international projects in collaboration, coupled with grant funds received from the Rotary Foundation, the Holmen Area Rotary Club has raised and supported nearly $250,000 worth of projects in our community and internationally.

 

If you have a desire to “Join Leaders, Share Ideas and Take Action”, please join other like-minded individuals for a hot breakfast every Wednesday morning at 7:00 a.m. at the Holmen Village Community Room or visit our website at homenarearotary.org.

 

We look forward to seeing and/or hearing from you.

Holmen Area Rotary Celebrates 10th Anniversary Year 2016-07-23 00:00:00Z 0

Service Auction

 
Thank you to our event sponsors!
 
District Sponsor
 
Club Sponsors
 
Service Auction 2016-02-16 00:00:00Z 0

Local Interact Clubs Win International Award

Posted on Feb 02, 2016
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Interact is a service organization for high school students that is affiliated with Rotary International.  Interact Clubs are sponsored by a corresponding local Rotary Club, giving students an opportunity to provide service in the community and around the world.  Interact students from five area high schools:  Aquinas, Central, Holmen, Logan, and West Salem recently worked together to help local food pantries and those in need of food.  The Interact teams packaged over 54,000 meals and collected donations of an additional 30,000 food items from local volunteers and businesses.  The attached video about their project took first place in Rotary's International Interact Video Contest beating out 87 other projects in 25 countries.
 
Local Interact Clubs Win International Award 2016-02-03 00:00:00Z 0

Holmen Rotary - At Night!

Posted on Apr 28, 2015
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So you like all you have heard that Rotary has been doing in the Holmen community and around the world, but the Wednesday morning 7am meetings just don't work for you?  There may be an opportunity for you and we would love for you to come and check it out.
 
Holmen Rotary has started a group which will meet primarily evenings but be involved in the same projects as the current club members.  For the next two months, the group will be meeting the first and third Wednesday evenings; May 6. May 20, June 3, and June 17 at Pizza Corral in Holmen 6pm.  They will also have socials at 6pm  the fourth Wednesday; May 27 and June 24 at locations yet to be announced.  Please stop by and check it out.  Call Dean McHugh 608-769-4803 if you have any questions.
Holmen Rotary - At Night! 2015-04-29 00:00:00Z 0

Do You Want to Do Good in the World?

Posted on Feb 10, 2015
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Come check out Holmen Rotary and Do Good in the World with us.
Do You Want to Do Good in the World? 2015-02-10 06:00:00Z 0

Polio fundraising in La Crosse

Posted on Sep 17, 2014
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In 1985 when Rotary began its polio eradication efforts, there were 350,000 cases annually in 125 countries.  In 2014 the fight is down to three countries:  Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Nigeria and only 147 cases reported year to date.  Rotary will continue its efforts until every last case of this dreaded disease has been eliminated and all children of this world grow up free of this threat.
 
Zone Institute training for Rotarians from New York to Nebraska took place this fall in La Crosse.  Rotarians raised over $92,000 for Rotary's polio eradication efforts during this five day event.  Holmen Rotary's own Justin Bodin raised $2,500 of the amount himself through the sale of 100 special friendship bracelets he made for the event.  With two to one matching by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the total amount resulting from the La Crosse event will be $277,000.  That's enough to immunize over half a million children against polio! 
Polio fundraising in La Crosse 2014-09-18 00:00:00Z 0

Holmen Rotarians Deliver Christmas Gifts in Peru

Posted by Dean McHugh on Dec 19, 2013
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Four Holmen Rotarians recently made their third trip to Lima Peru.  This time in addition to working on the club's ongoing clean water projects, Holmen Rotarians helped deliver Christmas presents to children in the poor villages courtesy of the fundraising efforts of fellow Rotarian Justin Bodin.

Holmen Rotarians Deliver Christmas Gifts in Peru Dean McHugh 2013-12-20 00:00:00Z 0

Holmen Rotarians meet with Peru Project Partner

Posted by Dean McHugh on Dec 18, 2013

Holmen Rotarians who were in Lima, Peru this last week to check the status of past and ongoing Biosand Water Filter projects were able to parlay their trip into a preliminary meeting on what they hope will be their next clean water project.  Holmen Rotary representatives met with Juan Simon, a representative of Water Missions International.  We are in the process of submitting a grant request to Rotary International in the amount of $70,000.  The grant would fund a centralized water filtration and distribution system, as well as 100 latrines for the community of 2,400 people.

Holmen Rotarians meet with Peru Project Partner Dean McHugh 2013-12-19 00:00:00Z 0

Holmen Area Rotary. Come Join Us

Posted by Dean McHugh on Nov 28, 2013

A video compilation by Holmen Rotary member Steve Johnston and his company the WOW Factory.  The video shows many of the successful projects of our Rotary club including Peru Biosand Water Filters, Student Exchange, Holmen Police K-9 unit, E-cycle, Halfway Park Clock, and Holmen High School Interact Club.  We meet 7am Wednesdays at Holmen Village Hall.  Come join us.  We need your help to change our community and our world.

Holmen Area Rotary. Come Join Us Dean McHugh 2013-11-29 00:00:00Z 0
The Rotary Foundation - Doing Good in the World Dean McHugh 2013-11-29 00:00:00Z 0
November Programs Scott Ryan 2013-10-29 00:00:00Z 0
Holmen Rotary completes protion of Boy Scout Camp project Dean McHugh 2013-10-09 00:00:00Z 0

Christmas in Peru - Part II

Posted by Dean McHugh on Oct 08, 2013

Holmen Rotary members will travel to Lima, Peru in mid December 2013 to help deliver Christmas presents to children in villages served by Holmen's previous Biosand Water Filter projects.

Christmas in Peru - Part II Dean McHugh 2013-10-09 00:00:00Z 0

Young carolers raise money for Newtown shooting families

Posted by Jake Bowe on Jan 02, 2013
Carolers

Michael Martin photo

Alyssa McCathie, Madison Gabbers, Macie Frederick and Milena Moit, from left, took matters into their own hands and raised $334 for families affected by the shooting in Newtown, Ct., by going door to door singing Christmas carols.

Young carolers raise money for Newtown shooting families Jake Bowe 2013-01-03 00:00:00Z 0

Bracelets for children in Peru

Posted by Steve Johnston on Oct 28, 2012

A story about Holmen Rotarian Justin Bodin and his quest to provide a one of a kind Christmas experience for 170 children in one of the poorest districts of Lima, Peru.


Bracelets for children in Peru Steve Johnston 2012-10-29 00:00:00Z 0
Congratulations to Onalaska Hilltopper Club! Jim Spencer 2012-02-29 00:00:00Z 0
Holmen Rotary Club - Biosand Filters in Peru Dean McHugh 2012-02-21 00:00:00Z 0
Rotary Eradicating Polio Worldwide Art Lyons 2011-11-02 00:00:00Z 0
A brief video on compassion and inner peace ... Art Lyons 2011-08-17 00:00:00Z 0
See Rotary International Polio Commercial Art Lyons 2011-08-11 00:00:00Z 0

Going to the dog: Rotarians give big for Holmen K-9 unit

Posted by Ryan Olson on May 05, 2011

When Rotarians make a pledge, they follow through. At a Holmen Village Board meeting in February, Rotary members Nancy Luedtke and Scott Ryan announced a $20,000 pledge over the next two years to help cover the costs of purchasing and training a dog for the Holmen Police Department.

Last week, Rotarians and guests - a crowd of 175 in all - raised $22,000 in a live "service" auction.

 Click here for the full article. 

Going to the dog: Rotarians give big for Holmen K-9 unit Ryan Olson 2011-05-06 00:00:00Z 0
Holmen's Hope honored by Foundation Ryan Olson 2011-04-28 00:00:00Z 0
Matching Grant for Phase 4 of Lima Water Project Dean McHugh 2011-02-24 00:00:00Z 0
What is Rotary? Ryan Olson 0