Artist and activist Tonika Johnson will join us via Zoom to tell the story of her highly acclaimed Folded Map Project, which began as an art project and transformed into a bridge between neighborhoods and an advocacy tool. The Project began as a photo series that "used the City of Chicago's grid system to identify and capture residences at corresponding addresses on the North and South Side in order to explore the visual legacies of segregation, socioeconomic disparities and racial discrimination."
"Folded Map began as an art project, but has become my way of combating social injustice," she said. "Ultimately, I want Folded Map to help us heal and get to know each other so that we can tear down the racist walls that divide us." Tonika will share how our North Suburban community can use the resources of the Folded Map Project to deepen our understanding and make vital connections with our neighbors across the city.
www.foldedmapproject.com
July 20, 2022 -- Guest Speaker, Nora Kusaka with Engineers Without Borders -- Wilmette Harbor Club -- 7:30 am to 8:30 am
Engineers Without Borders—Chicagoland Professional Chapter will be presenting on the ongoing projects the chapter is working on and will highlight our recent successful implementation of the water and sanitation projects with the Wema Children’s Centre in Kenya, and the second phase of the work that is to follow.
Presenter Backgrounds:
Nora Kusaka Herrero is a site civil engineer with Wight & Company, working in the greater Chicago area. She has 6 years of experience and has worked on various types of projects throughout the United States. Nora specializes in low-impact stormwater management and is utilizing these skills on projects with EWB to promote groundwater infiltration and stormwater capture and reuse.
Alan Phelps is a civil engineer with David Mason & Associates working on site design and stormwater management for new buildings and schoolyards in Chicago. With over 8 years of water and wastewater infrastructure experience, he has contributed to the success of a number of water projects in Latin America, Asia, and Africa. Alan is the president of the EWB Chicagoland Professional Chapter and the leader of the Wema Program in western Kenya.
Recent Meetings and Events
July 6, 2022 -- Evening Social Event -- Wilmette Harbor Club -- 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Last Wednesday's evening social event was a great way to start the month. It was a beautiful night at the harbor. We enjoyed good food and great company. Guests are always welcome.
June 29, 2022 -- Transition DinnerThe Club's annual Transition Dinner was held on the evening of Wednesday, June 29, 2022. At dinner we said "Thank you" to Mike Bailey and his leadership team. Departing board members include Beth DeWall, Ben Ivory and Jim Pockross. We then welcomed Brent Hendricks and his leadership team. New board members include Heidi Voorhees and Jim Bowman. Mike Bailey, Jeff Krupp, Sarah Oliver, Frank Hussey, Puran Stevens, Heidi Voorhees, and Corinne McClintic will continue as board members for another year. The Persian cuisine from Noon O Kabab was delicious. We are grateful to Puran Stevens for arranging a lovely dinner.
June 22, 2022 -- Ouilmette Foundation
Holly Gilson, Board President, The Ouilmette Foundation, and Andrew Tinucci, Partner, Woodhouse Tinucci Architects, provided an update of the activities of the organization.
Holly Gilson provided a brief overview of the Ouilmette Foundation's mission and strategic plan, which envisions a multi-year commitment to the restoration of Wallace Bowl, along with continuing support of the Wilmette Park District's Scholarship Program. The Ouilmette Foundation was originally founded to coordinate community engagement and private financial support for the refurbishment of Wallace Bowl that was completed in 1986. This tradition of sponsoring collaborative fundraising efforts to enhance our parks and enrich the community life that takes place in them continues to the present day. Architect Andrew Tinucci followed with a brief presentation on Wallace Bowl's significance and the restoration work that will be needed to preserve its unique qualities while updating it for the enjoyment of current and future residents. John Flanagin, a member of the Ouilmette Foundation and a member of the Rotary Club of Wilmette, provided additional remarks.
Please see the following for more information:
June 15, 2022 -- Charley Smith, Haven Youth and Family Services
Charley Smith, LCSW, Executive Director of Haven Youth and Family Services, provided an update of the activities of that organization.
Charley's informative presentation highlighted the lingering impact of Covid on the mental health in our community and included a discussion of increased anxiety and depression, the increased use of social media, safety assessment referrals from new sources and staffing concerns to meet the need of the community.
Haven Youth and Family Services promotes mental health and community wellness to support people in leading their best lives. Please see the following for further information:
June 8, 2022 -- Club Forum
The Club conducted a Club Forum at the June 8, 2022 meeting. Evelyn Lee, the Club's current Assistant Governor, and Richard Brill, the Club's incoming Assistant Governor beginning July 1, each made presentations. They discussed, among other matters, the Club's continuing coordination with District 6440. Richard is a member of the Rotary Club of Wilmette, past president and past secretary of that club, and is a 14-year Rotarian. He has been the District's Public Image Chair for the past five years.
Susan Fisher also provided an update of presentations and developments at the Rotary International Convention in Houston.
June 1, 2022 Trivia Night Context
The Trivia Night Contest of the Rotary Club of Wilmette Harbor returned on the evening of Wednesday, June 1, 2022 at the Harbor Club in Gillson Park.
The event was well attended, with many guests joining us for this fun evening.
Thanks to Jim Pockross and the entire Trivia Night Contest committee for organizing this event, and to Jack Close for being an unflappable and charming master of ceremonies for this event. Special thanks to the many sponsors of this event, including Wayfair, Glasgow and Associates, @Properties, Green Bay Animal Hospital and Byline Bank.
Unless otherwise specifically indicated regular Wednesday morning meetings will continue to be held at 7:30 am in hybrid form, so that members and guests can participate either in person at the Harbor Club in Gillson Park or by Zoom. The link to the hybrid meeting will be emailed to members, guests and others within the community who express an interest in attending.
On the first Wednesday of each month, however, the Club generally holds evening events, and does not meet in the morning on those Wednesdays.
Please note that, beginning in August 2022, regular meetings will be held at 7:15 am rather than 7:30 am.