On Saturday, November 4th, district 6250 hosted the 2023 Vibrant Club Workshop (VCW) at the Cranberry Country Lodge in Tomah. The event was a success, with 42 Rotarians coming together for a day of camaraderie, training, and celebration. We focused on the Rotary Action Plan and its four key priorities, utilizing Public Image, The Rotary Foundations, and Membership to drive everything collaboratively.
We were joined by PI Chair Lynn Perez-Hewit, TRF Chair Erin Luken, and new Membership Chair Marc Augsburger, all of whom emphasized the significance of collective effort in enhancing the impact of Rotary and ensuring the success of its clubs. Additionally, District Governor Michelle McGrath addressed the group, underlining some pivotal points. (Note: The links to the materials to follow)
Exploring the Cranberry Farms of Wisconsin
We had an eventful morning workshop that included a tour of Wetherby's Cranberry Bog and a visit to the Cranberry Museum in Warrens. Fifteen individuals joined us for this tour, where we learned about the rich history, business and cultivation of cranberries in Wisconsin.
The cranberry, originally named Craneberries because of the flower's appearance, is grown on 21,000 acres across 20 counties in Wisconsin. These berries are harvested each year from late September through October. Cranberries thrive in the sand and peat marshes of central and northern Wisconsin. The first cranberry farms were established in the early 1890s in areas around the Warrens, Tomah, west of Wisconsin Rapids, and Black River Falls.
Today, cranberry farms are located in northern Wisconsin, primarily around Manitowish Waters, Eagle River, Spooner and Hayward. Cranberries are used in many juices, sauces and sweetened dried cranberry foods such as granola and cereals. The fall weather was fantastic, and everyone had an enjoyable time!
Thank you to all that joined us and helped put the workshop and cranberry tours together!
Michael Kloss
RI D6250- DGN 2025-26
Eau Claire Rotary Club
