Rotary Club of Omaha Whirl 07.14.25 (Jul. 14, 2025)

July 16, 2025 Field Club of Omaha, 3615 Woolworth Avenue, Omaha, NE 68105

Presiding Officer: President Gretchen Harvey

Secretary: Matthew Boulay

Sgt at Arms: Christopher Rath
Digital Experience: Bill Harvey

Invocation & Pledge: John Mock

Navigator: Aileen Warren

Cashiers/Check-in: Need Volunteers

Admin Support: Rebecca Niemeyer Rens

Greeters: Scott Buchholz & Zac Triemert

Speaker Host: PDG Roxy Orr

Speaker: DG Robert Rapp

Buffet Lunch is $18 for members and $20 for visiting Rotarians and guests.
Lunch ticket is back. Please collect your lunch ticket after check-in and put it in the jar at the beginning of the buffet line

July 16, 2025 Rotary Speaker - District Governor Robert Rapp

Robert Rapp

Omaha Morning Rotary

District Governor 2025-26

Robert grew up on a farm/ranch in South Central Nebraska. He became a Rotarian in 1994 after serving as Rotary District’s 5650’s Ambassadorial Scholar to the University of Edinburgh Law School, Edinburgh, Scotland in 1988-89. He was President of his Omaha Morning Rotary Club in 2020-21. In 2022 Robert earned District 5650's prestigious Cadwallader Award for embodying the spirit of Rotary. Robert earned his undergraduate degree in Business/Finance from Doane University and MBA from the University of Nebraska Omaha. Robert’s professional background includes his work in economic/community development, international business consulting, and insurance and financial services. He enjoys spending time working and relaxing at the family farm/nature reserve located near Johnson Lake in the Platte River Valley. His son, Alex, and wife Allie live in Omaha, NE. Robert and his partner, Pam, live in Elkhorn, NE. His hobbies include music, photography, and history.

DISTRICT GOVERNOR FOCUS Club Strategic Planning; Building Stronger Rotary Clubs; Membership Retention & Growth; Rotary Club Innovation, Community & International Projects; Rotary International Foundation Giving; Peace & Conflict Resolution

Rotary Club of Omaha Celebrates the Installation of President Gretchen Harvey and 2025–2026 Leadership

Rotary Club of Omaha Celebrates the Installation of President Gretchen Harvey and 2025–2026 Leadership
By Yolanda Hoffman, Omaha NE, July 14, 2025

The Rotary Club of Omaha proudly marked the beginning of a new Rotary year with the installation of President Gretchen Harvey and her leadership teams. The ceremony was made especially meaningful by the presence of Nebraska Secretary of State and fellow Rotarian Bob Evnen, who graciously served as our presiding officer.

A proud member of the Rotary Club of Lincoln, Secretary Evnen brought both gravitas and warmth to the event. His participation underscored the strength of Rotary’s network of service-minded leaders and added a distinguished touch to the occasion. Secretary Evnen officially installed not only our Club officers and board members, but also the Rotary Club of Omaha Foundation Board—setting the tone for a year of leadership, vision, and action.

President Gretchen Harvey, a respected attorney and dedicated Rotarian, steps into the role with a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to community service. Born in Casper, Wyoming, Gretchen is a graduate of Colorado State University and Creighton University School of Law. Her legal career includes service as a law clerk for the Honorable John Grant at the Nebraska Supreme Court, nearly a decade at Nolan, Olson & Stryker, and her current role as the Nebraska Representative for the Society of Mayflower Descendants. She brings not only professional insight but also a deep appreciation for family and legacy.

Gretchen is joined by an outstanding team of officers and board members who will guide the club forward in alignment with Rotary’s theme of the year: “Unite for Good.” With the energy of new leadership and the wisdom of seasoned Rotarians, the year ahead holds great promise.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to President Gretchen Harvey and her leadership team, and our sincere thanks to Secretary Bob Evnen for honoring us with his time and service. Here's to a year of impact, collaboration, and Rotary fellowship.

President Gretchen Harvey with Inaugural Meeting Presiding Officer Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen

A Distinguished Installation: Secretary of State Bob Evnen Launches New Rotary Year

A Distinguished Installation: Secretary of State Bob Evnen Launches New Rotary Year
By Yolanda Hoffman, Omaha Nebraska July 14, 2025

The Rotary Club of Omaha welcomed Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen as the Installing Officer for the 2025–2026 leadership team at a special ceremony held on July 9. A fellow Rotarian from the Rotary Club of Lincoln, Secretary Evnen brought both warmth and gravitas to the event, delivering a message that resonated deeply with our members.

In his inspiring address titled “Unite for Good” Secretary Evnen reflected on the power of Rotary to bring people together in service:

“Rotary International President Francesco Arezzo of Italy calls on us to unite across generations, across professions, and across borders to do good in the world. It’s a reminder that while our differences make us dynamic, our shared values make us strong.”

He congratulated President Gretchen Harvey and her incoming Officers and Directors, urging them to lead with vision and heart:

“Leadership in Rotary isn’t about personal recognition. It’s about building something greater than ourselves.”

Secretary Evnen’s remarks were so well received that several members suggested inviting him back annually to serve as our permanent Installing Officer, a testament to his impact and connection with our club.

🌟 New Member Orientation – Save the Dates!

Are you a new Rotarian or just looking to learn more about how to get the most out of your membership? Join us for one of our upcoming New Member Orientation sessions! These gatherings are a great way to connect with fellow members, learn about club opportunities, and discover how you can make a meaningful impact.

📅 Orientation Dates:

July 23 at 4:00 PM – Regency Area
August 20 at 7:30 AM
September 24 at 12:00 Noon

Each session is designed to fit different schedules and provide valuable insights into our club's mission, projects, and pathways to getting involved. Whether you're brand new or just need a refresher, you're warmly invited.

New members are encouraged to attend.

We look forward to welcoming you!

🎶🧀 Mac, Mules & Music: Unite for Good! 🧀🎶

🎶🧀 Mac, Mules & Music: Unite for Good! 🧀🎶
A Rotary Club of Omaha Signature Fundraiser

Fellow Rotarians,

Join us for an unforgettable evening of macaroni & cheese, mules, music, and community impact! The Rotary Club of Omaha invites all clubs, in addition to Rotary friends & family across the metro, to support our newest fundraiser, Mac, Mules & Music, taking place:

📍 Lucky Bucket Brewing Co
📅 Friday, August 22
🕔 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📌 11941 Centennial Rd, LaVista, NE

We’re uniting for good with a casual, family-friendly event that features gourmet mac & cheese, refreshing mules, and music! Proceeds from this fun night out will benefit three long-standing Rotary initiatives:

The Eighth Grade Honor Roll
The 911 Memorial
The Outland Trophy Dinner

We encourage Rotarians across the district to show up in support - bring your club members, families, and friends. Let’s show the strength of Rotary’s network and make this a city-wide success.

🎟️ Sponsorships and tickets are now available from $40 single tickets to $10,000 Title Sponsorships; there’s a way for everyone to join in and contribute.

👉 Let’s Unite for Good—because when Rotarians gather with purpose, great things happen.
Visit https://square.link/u/ElDHVDJa to reserve your spot or sponsor today!

Happy Birthday, Rotarians!

Governor Robert Rapp July 2025 Message

Rotary District 5650 Rotarians: This is my first newsletter of the new Rotary year. First, let me tell you what an honor and a privilege it is to be your 2025-26 District Governor. We have an exciting year ahead of us and I know we will all accomplish important things together serving our communities and the world as we “Unite For Good.”

Before I give you my message for July, I would like to thank PDG Tom Kerfoot, Omaha Suburban Rotary Club, for his great leadership over the past 2024-25 year in serving our Rotary District. Thank you, Tom!!

Tom, along with the rest of our District Leadership Team, did an excellent job, always thinking of others and how to best serve our Rotary Clubs. We are fortunate as Tom will continue to serve next year as Foundation Chair. Mick McKinley, PDG, Council Bluffs Noon Rotary Club, is stepping down after serving in this role for many years. A big thank you to Mick for his many years of dedicated service. Please thank him when you see him.

Hopefully, that won’t be long, as he and his bandmates from “Paul Harris and his Fellows” will be headlining at our Fall Rotary District Conference, October 17-18^th, 2025 at the Scott Conference Center, Aksarben Village, Omaha on Friday evening, October 17^th, 2025, for “Rotary Got Talent”.

Rotarians serving meals at Stephen Center

Rotarians are making a difference at Stephen Center. CLICK HERE to sign up.

Stephen Center partners with the community, families, and individuals to overcome homelessness, addiction, and poverty. Stephen Center has served the homeless and low-income in Omaha since 1984 through its three programs: Emergency Shelter, HERO Program, and Transitional Living Program. The Omaha Downtown Rotary partners with Stephens Center in serving hot meals to its residents.

July 2, 2025 Rotarian Volunteers at Stephen Center

Rotary Social is Business Networking

Where three or more Rotarians gather, it's called a Rotary Social, and you earn attendance credits. Rotarians may come from different clubs. Connect with Rotarians and enjoy the power of Rotary fellowship. Below are our recent Rotary Socials.

Rotarians at Empower Breakfast L to R: Lisa Tonjes Moritz, Brett Frevert, James Mackiewicz, Shelly Ruwe, Bill Harvey and President Gretchen Harvey

Rotary Social meeting with the new General Secretary of the Scottish Rite Lodge Omaha David Greenberg (Suburban Rotary) Micah Evans (Millard Rotary) and Yolanda Hoffman (Omaha)

Rotarians at Cavanaugh for Congress L to R: Lisa Tonjes Moritz, Tom Gouttierre, Jim Suttle. Not in photo is Jim Cavanaugh

CWS tailgate Rotary meeting - James Mackiewicz, Larry G., and Todd Chaney from Downtown, Patricia Cantu from West and
Angie Chaney from Suburban

Three Club members enjoy lunch at the German-American Club with their fellow Packyderm Group pals.

Meet up at Happy Hollow Club L to R: Susan Koesters, Hal Daub, Sandy Lemke

We are Rotary

The Rotary Club of Omaha is now recruiting more members! It's your opportunity to join the Rotary Club of Omaha, click here to complete the membership application form. For questions, please contact Membership Chair Franco Gentile at FGentile@sbgtv.com.

Jul 23, 2025

Rotary Foundation Recipients Presentation

American Red Cross, Hillcrest, ICAN, Omaha Community Playhouse, Joslyn, RISE

Jul 30, 2025

Rotary Foundation Recipients Presentation

Immanuel, MADD, Midwest Womens Entrepreneur, Respect

Aug 06, 2025

Colonel John Folsom

Service, Sacrifice & Support

Aug 13, 2025

Martie Cordero

Storm Chasers & Union Omaha Update

Aug 20, 2025

Dr. Reynold Henry

Whole Blood Initiative

Aug 27, 2025

Phil Taylor

Cybersecurity

Sep 03, 2025

Amy Tritsch

Education

Sep 10, 2025

Gene Kowel

9/11

View entire list

New Member Orientation

Jul 23, 2025

Rotary After Meeting Socials
Field Club Bar
Jul 30, 2025 1:00 PM

Stephen Center 2723 Q St., Omaha, NE 68107
Stephen Center
Aug 05, 2025

*Club sings "GBA"

Aug 06, 2025

Annual Rotary Club of Omaha Pool Party!

Aug 07, 2025 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

New Member Orientation

Aug 20, 2025 7:30 AM

Rotary After Meeting Socials
Field Club Bar
Aug 27, 2025 1:00 PM

Stephen Center 2723 Q St., Omaha, NE 68107
Stephen Center
Sep 02, 2025

*Club sings "GBA"

Sep 03, 2025

View entire list

Club President

Gretchen Harvey

Club President-elect

James Mackiewicz

Immediate Past Club President

Heather Legge

Club Administration Director

Yolanda Hoffman

Club Secretary

Matthew Boulay

Club Treasurer

Jim Stewart

Club Foundation Chair - TRF

Heather Legge

Sergeant-at-Arms

Okley Gibbs

Club Membership Chair

Russell Vaughn

Club Polio Chair

Bill Harvey

Club Program Chair

Tobi Mathouser

Club Public Image

Lisa Tonjes Moritz

Club Service Projects

Steve McCollister

Club Foundation Board Chair - Club Foundation

Tobi Mathouser

Board Member - 2025-2028

Tobi Mathouser

Club Foundation Board Member 2024-2027

Tobi Mathouser

Club Foundation Board Member 2023-2026

Aileen Warren

Club Foundation Board Member 2025-2028

Jill Slupe

Club Foundation Immediate Past President

Chris Tooker

Board Member - 2023-2026

Josh Todd

Board Member - 2024-2027

Lisa Tonjes Moritz

Club Foundation Board Member 2025-2028

Leslie Volk

Board Member - 2024-2027

Susan Koesters

Board Member - 2023-2026

Sue Kutschkau

Club Foundation Board Member 2023-2026

Sean Connolly

Board Member - 2025-2028

Gene DeBoer

Club Foundation Board Member 2024-2027

Gene DeBoer

Member Birthdays

Michael Mancuso

July 1

David Carrig

July 6

Theo Freye

July 9

Chris Mehaffey

July 11

Brad von Gillern

July 13

Benjamin Washburn

July 17

Randy Ferlic

July 17

Donald Swanson

July 20

Pastor Heidi McGinness

July 22

Paul Cohen

July 23

Dakotah Smith

July 24

LeRoy Swedlund

July 24

Jeremy Bouman

July 25

Tom Gouttierre

July 29

Amie Konwinski

July 30



















Aileen Warren Adam Leong Amy Tritsch Aileen Warren Bill Harvey Gretchen Harvey Bob Keefer Brad Burklund Camille Metoyer Moten Brett Frevert Charlie Peters Colleen Brennan Deb Skinner Elkhorn Athletics Josh Todd Fletcher Reel Gene DeBoer Goodwill Industries Heather Legge Heidi McGinness Huntrex.com Jim Murphy Jim Stewart John Mock Larry Guenther Larry Johansen LeRoy Swedlund Lisa Tonjes Moritz Michelle Trawick Nash Mahupete Okley Gibbs Omaha Downtown Rotary Foundation Omaha School of Massage Therapy Paul Cohen PDG Bob Perrin PDG Roxy Orr Ralston Schools Foundation Randy Wieseler Rick Waxman Sarah Robak Scott Buchholz Steve Carper Steve McCollister Susan Koesters Tobi Mathouser Todd Chaney Todd Murphy Tom Gouttierre Westside Foundation