Ben Zang is on a mission to get Rotary closer to its roots, established so business people could both serve their communities and build their professional network. Zang, immediate past president of the Mequon/Thiensville Rotary Club, calls Rotary Means Business (RMB) the organization's “best kept secret.” As the Wisconsin Director for RMB's USA Board, Zang speaks to Wisconsin clubs about creating a fellowship group that would encourage business people in the club to network with each other and bring in non-Rotarians (potential new members) who also might be interested. He says RMB is an excellent way to “build the bench strength of the Club” and make the membership composition look more like the community we serve.

Zang suggests a once per month event where fellow Rotarians can have the opportunity to both learn about trusted business services from fellow members and offer their services, as well.

Zang's presentation sparked an audience discussion where some members felt this goal could be and already is accomplished at the weekly meetings, when hearing fellow members give their classification talks. Others felt such a fellowship group could be a nice supplement to what our club already does. As one member put it, those who are interested in participating in Dinner with Friends, for instance, will do so but may not be interested in Bike with Mike or the Beer Fellowship. 

Several members approached Zang after the meeting saying they strongly supported this approach and want to participate. 

To learn more, visit RMB.

For Jim Zellmer, literacy is a passion. He sees reports that indicate kids are losing ground, being less able to read than in past years. Jim, a technology specialist, says way too many kids are not proficient in reading. He's part of a program named Fast Lane Literacy that aims to turn the tide and make it easier for kids to learn.