What a journey it has been. This final reflection brings me to the final four stops of my 51-club tour across District 6250. It has been an absolute honor to witness the incredible impact, dedication, and "Service Above Self" attitude alive in every corner of our district. Here is how we crossed the finish line!
Stop 48: Rotary Club of Stoughton (June 3rd)
The final stretch began on a beautiful, warm early summer day in Stoughton, where I was met by the welcoming smiles of President Tom Fendrick and his fantastic club.
Stoughton Rotarians have truly shaped the cultural and physical landscape of their community:
- The Iconic Rotary Gazebo: Located east of the historic Stoughton Opera House, Rotary Park and its picturesque gazebo serve as the cultural and musical heart of downtown during the warmer months.
- Gazebo Musikk: This highly anticipated, free, family-friendly outdoor concert series brings residents together every Thursday evening from late May through September for live music, community mingling, and fellowship.
- Catfish River Music Festival: Every July, the Rotary gazebo transforms into the main stage for this multi-day free festival, acting as a massive community draw and the primary fundraiser for the Friends of the Stoughton Opera House.
Stop 49: Rotary Club of Watertown (June 8th)
Only a few days later I kicked off a week-long road trip starting in Watertown. While President Chelsy and their President-Elect were both unavailable, a dedicated member named Kim stepped up to lead the meeting and did a marvelous job—she is definitely a future Rotary leader to watch!
Watertown boasts a rich history of civic preservation and youth investment:
- Preserving the Octagon House: In the 1930s, the club fiercely championed the movement to save this famous pre-Civil War landmark, even holding meetings on its lawn to drum up civic support. Once acquired by the Historical Society, Rotary funded and executed the restoration of its historic gardens—a close relationship that continues today.
- The "Outstanding Seniors" Program: In a robust partnership with the Watertown Unified School District, Rotarians honor high school seniors who excel in academics, athletics, and service. These students attend weekly Monday meetings, giving them a wonderful opportunity to network with local business and civic leaders.
- Environmental Impact: The club also remains deeply committed to the community through the Rock River Project and the Riverside Park Shoreline Restoration.
Stop 50: Rotary Club of Waupun (June 9th)
Under a bright, sunny blue sky, I traveled to Waupun and was warmly greeted by President Mitch and a small but fiercely passionate club of Rotarians deeply woven into the local civic fabric.
Waupun proves that size does not limit impact, driving change through key local traditions:
- Annual Beerfest: The club’s signature fundraising engine is a massive craft beer-tasting event featuring over a dozen Wisconsin breweries, local appetizers, raffles, and live music. Best of all, 100% of the proceeds are funneled straight back into local causes.
- Wilcox Park Revitalization: Utilizing hard-earned funds alongside matching District Grants, the club has invested thousands of dollars and countless volunteer hours to upgrade the park’s recreational infrastructure, creating a safe, modern space for families to gather.
Stop 51: Rotary Club of Jefferson (The Grand Finale!)
My final official club visit took me to Jefferson. President Charlie couldn't make it, but President-Elect Mike did a fantastic job leading the way. I was greeted by enthusiastic club members and with Assistant Governor Beth Naughton we all celebrated the end of the tour.
The Rotary Club of Jefferson is a true cornerstone of local civic life, anchoring the city's social scene and investing heavily in the next generation:
- Rotary Waterfront Park & Concerts: The club's most enduring physical gift to the city is this scenic park along the Rock River. Co-hosted with the Jefferson Live Music Foundation, the free weekly summer concert series draws thousands of residents for live music, food trucks, and riverside fellowship.
- Brat & Burger Dinner & Raffle: Every August, the community turns out in droves for this massive fundraiser. Like Waupun, 100% of the proceeds go right back into the community to fund vital local projects.
- High-Impact Scholarships: Thanks to their summer fundraising success and local endowments, the club awards nearly $20,000 annually in college and technical school scholarships to graduating seniors from Jefferson High School.
Keep shining your light!
Unite for Good,
Michael Kloss
Past-District Governor 2025-26
Rotary Club of Eau Claire WI