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NEW BERLIN VETERANS MEMORIAL
DEVELOPMENT HISTORY 

            
 

 Genesis 

 Michelle M. Wittmer was a Wisconsin National Guard soldier serving in Iraq when she was killed   in action in 2004.  She was the first Wisconsin National Guard member killed in action since WWII and the first female casualty in the history of any U. S. National Guard unit. 

September 2004 

Led by Michelle Hawley and supported by the Wittmer family, friends and various Veteran groups, a formal request was made to the NB Parks & Rec Committee to rename Valley View Park in her honor.  The request was assigned to a committee for study. 

October 

Following considerable discussion the committee voted to table for further study and research.  Notable dissent was expressed by Don Hermann – Commander of the NB VFW Post.  He stressed the fact that there were numerous NB residents who had also made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.  He noted that there was currently no Veterans Memorial honoring any of NB’s fallen warriors. 

November 

Following more discussion the issue was tabled again.  Don Hermann suggested a Memorial at the new City Center would be more appropriate.  Mayor Ted Wysocki informed the committee that he was working with the VFW on a Memorial for all Veterans. 

December 

Mayor Wysocki then created an Ad Hoc Committee to recognize NB Veterans.  Named to serve were the following;

Ted Wysocki – Mayor
John Hopkins – Alderman
Lee Sisson – Plan Commission
Nancy Duff – Park & Rec
Mary Jane Whitty – NB Schools
Don Hermann – NB VFW Post
Larry Thysell – Library Board
Michelle Hawley – Citizen
Rich Cerone – Citizen

 The first meeting of this group was December 18, 2004 in the Common Council chambers at City Hall.  Mayor Wysocki outlined the specific purpose of the committee.  His expectation was that the group would meet 4 – 5 times and then present their recommendation to the Common Council for action. 

Don Hermann was elected Chairman.

All members contributed specific ideas and Alderman Dave Ament suggested renaming Coffee Street in the City Center to; 

Michelle Wittmer Parkway.

2005 

Commentary - In its formative years the group struggled to establish a footing and a direction.  While engaged and committed the group faced a sequence of obstacles, each of which required difficult decisions.  But, they continued to press forward. 

January 

The first committee meeting was hosted by Mary Jane Whitty in the Teachers Lounge at Eisenhower High School.  A crew from Channel 4 TV recorded the meeting. The key decision reached was to recommend to the Common Council that Coffee Road be renamed Michelle Wittmer Parkway through the new City Center. 

Further discussion addressed the notion of establishing a Memorial in the City of New Berlin for Veterans of all military branches.  Mayor Wysocki agreed to prepare a proposal to locate this new Memorial at the site of the new Library in City Center and to present this to the Library Board. 

February 

An appeal to honor Jay Balchunas was deferred.  It was during this period that Larry Thysell indicated that the Library Board might not be interested in the Memorial.  He suggested the old Library for consideration. 

May

Don Hermann gave a report on a proposal that suggested placing the Memorial within the front courtyard of the new Library.  He provided a rendering of how the Memorial would look.  The primary focus would be a bronze sculpture of a young boy holding a folded American casket flag.  The Statute would be placed on a marble base with markers representing all branches of the military.  Costs were estimated to be between $50 to $75,000 with all funding to be raised by private donations.  A copy of the photo follows. 

Other discussion revolved around the street naming issue and the probable need to establish a 501 (C) (3) Charitable Foundation. 


Original Photo May 2005

 

June 

Don Hermann reported contact had been made with the sculptor and that the Rock of Ages Memorial Company would prepare and present design ideas and cost proposals. 

July 

Design ideas and Memorial site location were discussed. General consensus was to continue to pursue the front of the new Library.  Don Hermann suggested the following inscription for the front of the Memorial; 

Dedicated to the memory of all citizens of New Berlin who have given their lives in the service of their country.  And to all who have served in the Armed Forces of the United States of America. 

August 

Earl Hilgendorf from Rock of Ages Memorial presented his design proposal to be located in front of the new Library.  Cost estimate was $75,000 excluding the Flags, Statute and Lighting. 

Lee Sisson suggested the following inscription for the back side of the Granite base; 

For those who have fought for it, Freedom has a taste that the protected will never know. 

Ted Wysocki suggested the original inscription be modified as follows; 

In eternal gratitude to the citizens of New Berlin who gave their yesterdays for our tomorrows in the service of their country, and to all veterans who have served in the Armed Forces of the United States of America. 

Both inscriptions were endorsed and approved by the group.  Plans were then finalized for the conceptual presentation to the Library Board for their approval. 

November 

Don Hermann reported that the Library Board had rejected our proposal.  Only one member voted in favor. 

Earl Hilgendorf presented a revised design reducing the height to approximately 7 feet. 

Michelle Hawley introduced Attorney Jack Melvin, a member of her National Guard JAG unit.  He agreed to research our options on the 501 (C) (3) Charitable Foundation. 

December 

Mayor Chiovatero reported that John Vogel had been selected to replace Rick Cerone as a citizen member. 

Attorney Jack Melvin agreed that collaboration with the VFW to utilize their Charitable Foundation would be legal and beneficial. 

As a result of the Library Board rejection, alternate sites were explored (Current Site, Malone Park, Historical Park, old Library, etc.)  Earl Hilgendorf agreed to visit each site and give us his recommendations.

 

2006 

Commentary - With the New Year came an expanded and broader sense of purpose and direction.  This was coupled with a renewed source of energy led by the addition of Mayor Jack Chiovatero, Dave Gilligan and Rush Wilkins. 

 

January

 Mayor Chiovatero advised that Rush Wilkins would join the group replacing Larry Thysell.  It was also agreed we would immediately move our meetings from the new Library to NB City Hall.

 Common Council approved the new Memorial site at the corner of National Ave and Casper Drive.  Utilities, lighting and potential conflict with abutting neighbor were discussed.

 The VFW accepted the request to collaborate on using their Charitable Foundation.  Fund raising brochure ideas were reviewed.  A Post Office Box was established and promotional ideas were contributed.  Donor recognition levels were explored.

 Specific cost estimates were presented by Earl Hilgendorf from Rock of Ages Memorials.  It was agreed the name of the group should be changed to; 

NEW BERLIN VETERANS MEMORIAL COMMITTEE 

 

February

 Rush Wilkins agreed to serve as “point” spokesman for the group in all Press and Media relations.  A press Conference was planned and Mayor Chiovatero reported that Dave Patzer of Scan Group would donate 18,000 printed brochures to be inserted in the next issue of the city Newsletter.  On site signage was approved.  Letterhead design was finalized and Press Release packages were presented.

 March 

A new Web Site proposal by Ted Wysocki was accepted.  The initial Press Conference was conducted by Rush Wilkins in the Community Room at the new Library.  This action netted valuable space in the Journal, Citizen and Freeman newspapers.   

The Plan Commission approved the site and a large sign was installed. 

Don Hermann announced the first large donation of $10,000 from the VFW and presented the first budget showing donations in excess of $16,000. 

The Memorial design and construction cost proposal of $64,000 by Rock of Ages was endorsed and approved. 

 

Fund raising ideas and additional promotional plans were discussed.  The site sign dedication was staged with additional coverage by the media.

 

April

 A video was developed and is now featured on the City Cable channel.  The Web Site is up and operational.  Plans to actively participate in the Memorial Day celebration and July 4th activities were explored.  A donor list with contact assignments was finalized and distributed.

 Mary Jane Whitty presented ideas on fund raising by N.B. school children and the possibility of funding to cover the costs of the flag poles was proposed and endorsed.

 May

 The first payment of $6000 to Rock of Ages was approved.  Rush Wilkins distributed customized Tee Shirts for members.  Two paintings have been donated by George Zielinski to accommodate a Raffle at the booth during the July 4th activities.  Agreement was reached with the Sculptor Lundeen for the Bronze Statue.  It was agreed the Statue would face West.

 Site landscaping, design and lighting were discussed.

 June

 Cash donations = $24,552

 Down payment of $6000 for Statue was approved.

 Mary Jane Whitty introduced Eisenhower Middle and High School students who presented two $1500 checks which were raised through a variety of Car Washes, Dances, etc.  This was applied toward the purchase of the three flag poles.

 The Raffle license was received from the state and the July 4th Booth and Parade (Float) plans were finalized.

 Landscape options were explored.

 July

 Cash donation = $30,000 (approximately)

 A potential substantial cash donation in return for naming rights at the Memorial site was summarily rejected.

 The July 4th Booth activity generated considerable enthusiasm and resulted in one key result,  the recruitment of Dave Gilligan to the group.

 August 

 Cash donations = $31,780

 A scheme to distribute Brochures at various commercial locations was established and progress developing donors was reviewed. 

 The Library Board rejected our request for display space to promote the Memorial.

 Landscaping ideas were debated including one to consider an Amphitheater concept.

 October

 Cash donations = $37,835

 The concrete foundation is complete.

 Planning for the annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting ceremony were finalized.

 Rush Wilkins presented the idea of a large potential ($50,000 +) anonymous donor.

 November

 Cash donations = $45,639

 John Vogel assumed responsibility as Secretary of the group.  Flag proposals were reviewed, finalized and Mary Jane Whitty reiterated her commitment to provide funding generated by student activities.  Donor solicitations and recognition were discussed.

 No cases of pneumonia by those serving in the booth at the Tree Lighting ceremony were reported.

 December

 N.B. West High School students presented a $1500 donation.

 Ruekert & Mielke’s offer for Landscaping design was gratefully accepted.  The N. B. Now Blog is operational.

 

2007

 Commentary - Numerous site and funding issues characterize this, the 3rd full year of engagement in this endeavor.  Community acceptance also became a reality as the Memorial was constructed, dedicated and promoted.

 January

 Cash donations = $48,595

 Pavement on east side of site is to be removed.  Other landscaping issues discussed.

 May 19th (Armed Forces Day) was selected as the date for the Memorial dedication ceremony.  Nancy Duff volunteered to plan, organize and script the event.

 February

 Cash donations $60,475

 Landscaping and dedication ceremony were reviewed.

 

A special embroidered patch was designed and 100 initial pieces were donated by Al Stiegler.  These are to be sold for $10 each. 

Final payment for the bronze sculpture was authorized.

 

March

 Cash donations = $67,709

 Nancy Duff presented plans for the Memorial Dedication Ceremony including a promotional article in the city Newsletter.  A Memorial brochure was also inserted in this issue.

 Ted Wysocki presented plans for a Casino Night fund raiser at the VFW hall in May.

 Mary Jane Whitty presented another check for $1500 bringing the total from both High Schools to $6000.  Additional landscaping ideas were discussed with the idea of using stamped concrete for the sidewalks. 

Dave Gilligan was formerly introduced as the newest member of our group.

 

April

 Cash donations = $70,639

 Dedications plans were finalized. Flag Pole purchase and installation plans were finalized.  Heartland Business Systems donated printed invitations for dedication ceremony.

   
                                                                        




May

 This was an active month with both the Dedication Ceremony and the Casino Night events.

 The Dedication was a special event with Don Hermann as M. C., printed programs, special invitations, the N. B. Community Band and a gaggle of local dignitaries. A well done was extended to Nancy Duff for her exceptional effort.

  

                                                                                                     

 

              






 Casino Night was sold out and both the VFW and Ted Wysocki were recognized for their contributions.

 The need to improve our Web Site was discussed and Dave Gilligan volunteered to fix it.

June

 Cash donations = $86,086

 John Vogel presented an idea to sell commemorative Bricks to be installed at the site.

 

August

 Cash donations = $91,001

Landscaping and lighting issues were discussed.

September

 Cash donations = $96,401

 The Christmas Tree issue was resolved. 

 Brick sales as a fund raiser was approved.

 

 October

 Cash donations = $98,431

 Landscaping and Brick sales were discussed. Rush Wilkens announced that the Kasian brothers of Green Acres nursery would donate & plant the trees at the site.

 Web Site improvement is to be coordinated by Dave Gilligan.

 November

 Cash donations = $104,115

 Dave Gilligan created a promotional brochure for the Brick sales activity.  Plans to promote at the Christmas Parade were discussed.

 Dave Gilligan developed a new Web Site.

 December

 Landscape issues / costs were discussed.  Brick brochures and a pricing schedule were finalized.  Preferred Electrical donated time & material for lighting.

Mary Jane Whitty, along with Zack Szanianski from the Student Council at Eisenhower presented a $2000 donation to the Memorial.  This brings their total to $5000.  Coupled with the $1500 from West H. S. we have received $7500 total from New Berlin school students to support this worthwhile effort.

A new issue was introduced concerning the ability to establish an organizational structure that will insure the integrity and character of the Memorial in the future.  It was agreed to keep this on the table as we move into the New Year.

2008

 Commentary – With completion of the Memorial in sight and funding available to pay vendors on-time, there was a feeling of accomplishment among the group.  The resolve was not diminished but there was a sense of “rounding 3rd base and heading home”.  As in the past year, landscaping issues dominated the discussion and Rush Wilkens provided the necessary and critical leadership in resolving these challenges.

 January

 Cash donations = $108,330

 Planning for the 2008 Casino Night event was discussed and Rush Wilkins volunteered to head up this activity, which will be located and staged at the Ale House (New Berlin Entertainment Center)

 Landscaping and Brick sales were discussed and the new Brick brochure will be inserted in the next city Newsletter.

 February

 Cash donations = $108,689

 Brick sales = $5300

 Rush Wilkins reviewed plans and promotion for the Casino Night.  Authorization to invest up to $7000 was provided.

 Panton Builders presented a concept called “Faux Brick” for the sidewalk in the Memorial.

  March

 Cash donations = $108,809

 Brick sales = $5900

 Casino Night details were reviewed.  An announcement is included in the city Newsletter.  A wide variety of promotional effort will be invested.

 The sidewalk construction contract was signed.

April

 Cash donations = $109,584

 Brick sales = $12,300

 Parking spaces on North side of Memorial will be included in Panton contract.  Work will be completed this month.  Johnson Aggregate donated the gravel. Casino Night plans finalized.

 Brick placement will separate Veterans and general community.  Johnson Sand and Gravel donated the gravel.

 May

 Brick sales = $17,000

 Sidewalk is sealed and complete.  Brick configuration and layout finalized. Schmitz Redi-Mix donated the concrete.

 Despite outstanding promotional efforts, ticket sales to the Casino Night fell short of expectations. 

William Zaborowski was introduced as the newest member of the  committee.  

 

 June

 Cash donations (June 28th) = $121,695

Brick sales = $30,650

In-kind Donations = $29,482

 Total revenue raised to date = $181,827

 Rock of Ages and Panton Builders have been paid in full.  Site grading and seeding was authorized.  

 Mayor Chiovatero reported that the City insurance policy will cover liability for the Memorial site.

 Planning for the July 4th Booth activity was finalized.  Because of the delay in seeding (heavy rains) we will unfortunately need to fence off the Memorial site to protect the new grass.

 

July 

Cash Donations         $121,775

Brick Sales                      33,150

In-kind Donations          29,482 

All Invoices have been paid. 

The critical need for on-site water was discussed and Rush Wilkens reported he had a donor who offered to pay for the Sprinkler System (Estimated $5000 cost).  Grading, seeding and brick repair are also needed.  

September 

Cash Donations                             $121,935

Brick Sales                                          33,150

In-kind Donations                              29,482 

All invoices have been paid.  Current cash balance is $24,449. 

Landscaping bids were reviewed and it was agreed to invest up to $10,000 for the installation of a lateral (with meter and faucet) from Casper Drive.  Another $2725 was authorized for topsoil and seeding. 

Publicity continues in both the city Newsletter and the New Berlin NOW, thanks to the good efforts of Rush Wilkens. 

Ted Wysocki proposed staging a third annual Casino fund raiser in 2009.  He volunteered to organize and run it, and move it back to the VFW facility.

 

October  

Cash Donations                             $121,974

Brick Sales                                          34,950

In-kind Donations                               29,482 

It was agreed to pay $15,000 to cover majority of landscaping and irrigation expenses. 

A total of 40 new bricks will be installed by the committee this month.  Total bricks sold = 290. 

Mary Jane Whitty has a family who volunteered to care for the flower beds at the site.  She also advised that we will be invited to participate in a Veterans Day celebration at Eisenhower Middle School. 

November 

Cash Donations                                   $121,974 (455 Donors)

Brick Sales                                                35,650  (295 Bricks)

In-kind Donations                                    29,482 

All invoices are current. 

Landscaping discussion included long term maintenance of the Flower area, oil stains on several bricks and the somewhat unsightly fence on the East side of the property. 

Dave Gilligan reported that the Historical info and numerous photos have been added to the Web Site. 

John Hopkins advised that Highland Memorial Gardens had offered to donate a bronze plaque for our donor recognition area.  It was agreed that the Committee would need to select and fund a large granite stone for the plaque. 

Mary Jane Whitty announced the Veterans Day celebration will be November 11th and the Middle School students will present a sizable donation.  A proclamation will be created by Mayor Jack Chiovatero and Don Hermann will participate in the program. 

December  

Cash Donations                              $123,975  (456 Donors)

Brick Sales                                           36,250   (300 Bricks)

In-kind Donations                                29,482 

Total Revenue raised to date (December 4th)  =  $189,707. 

Ted Wysocki reported the New Berlin Garden Club will assume responsibility for the flower garden area.  He also advised we will receive a major donation from the estate of Al Stigler.  In view of this it was agreed to cancel plans for the 2009 Casino Fund raiser.  


 

 

2009

 

Commentary - There is a general feeling of comfort and satisfaction with results to date.  Roadblocks and obstacles of every imaginable type have been met and the project nears completion with a Memorial design and site location second to none. 

While crossing the finish line is in sight there are still challenges that will require continued dedication and effort from the committee.  Chief among these is the need to create an organizational structure that will insure the integrity, character and funding for the Memorial looking to the future ahead.

 

January 

Cash Donations           $124715   (459 Donors)

Brick Sales                        37250   (309 Bricks)

In-kind Donations            31162 

Total Revenue raised to date  (January 7th)  $193127 

New flags have been purchased.  Highland Memorial has offered to provide a “Donor” plaque if we will purchase the Granite stone and pay for the installation.  It was agreed to accept this offer and finalize Plaque content in the period ahead.

 

February 

Cash Donations                $124755   (465 Donors)

Brick Sales                              39152  ( 316 Bricks)

In-kind Donations                  31162

Total Revenue raised to date  (February 5th)  $195069 

Larry Stephens, representing the estate of Al Stigler, presented a check for $11731 from an insurance policy held by Al.  He also presented $1545 which was donated during Al’s funeral. 

Discussions on landscaping included the need to re-lay the Bricks, add a Rain Sensor to the sprinkler system and repair the Telephone enclosure on the North end of the site.  Also, it was noted that the “Christmas Tree” was in bad shape. 

The Monument Stone design was approved. 

The notion of securing a 501 ( c )3 Charitable Tax status for the Memorial was discussed and approved by a unanimous vote. 

March 

Cash Donations                  $136800  (467 Donors)

Brick Sales                                39852  (322 Bricks)

In-kind Donations                    31162

Total Revenue raised to date  (March 5th)      $207814 

Cash Balance    $24610 

It was agreed that Site maintenance had to be provided on a regular basis by a professional and a bid from Chuck Bedwell, New Berlin Landscaper, was accepted for the coming year. 

The Memorial web-site has been updated by Dave Gilligan. 

Location of the Donor Monument was finalized. 

Preliminary discussion was held on ideas for promoting the Site on an annual basis.  The concept of forming a “Society” was introduced by Lee Sisson.  Included was a Membership Development plan. 

John Vogel reported he completed the application for a grant from the Room Tax Grant Program.

 

April 

Cash Donations                     $136850  (468)

Brick Sales                                   40152  (324)

In-kind Donations                       39602 

Total Revenue raised to date  (April 2nd)  $216604 

Cash Balance     $24482 

Brick Installation needs to be corrected.  Stano Services was selected to provide this service. 

Mary Jane Whitty proposed staging a “New Berlin Military Family Day” to recognize New Berlin Veterans and their families.  This promotion would be designed to recognize people, achievement, history and pride.  The concept was embraced by all and available dates were explored.  It was stressed that the event should be unique and special to our Memorial, and the date selected should be free from conflict with existing established events. 

A set of “Soldiers Prayer” silhouettes has been donated and a decision on how and where they can be used will be made later.

 

May 

Cash Donations             $136850  (468)

Brick Sales                           40952  (334)

In-kind Donations               39602 

Total Revenue raised to date   (April 30th)   $217404 

Cash Balance       $25207 

A $3600 bid from Stano to remove and replace the Brick section was approved with the expectation that the work would be completed by the July 4th celebration.  It was also agreed to commit $400 to replace the “Christmas Tree”. 

Rush Wilkens introduced the idea of sending a letter on behalf of the Memorial Committee to New Berlin students graduating from the Military Academies.

 

June 

Cash Donations                                $136850   (468)

Brick Sales                                              41252  (337)

In-kind Donations                                   39602 

Total Revenue raised to date  (June 4th)  $217704 

Cash Balance       $23799 

Noting that Cash and In-kind donations have remained static for the past three (3) months, an Operating Plan for the balance of this year and 2010 needs to be crafted.  Rush Wilkins, Ted Wysocki and Lee Sisson agreed to take a cut at this. 

During this meeting a plan was presented by Lee Sisson describing how the organization should be structured going into 2010.  The plan calls for a non-profit organization to be established with responsibility and authority to operate, maintain and promote the Memorial.  It was decided that before moving forward on this reorganization we would complete our current tasks. 

Rush Wilkens presented a comprehensive and uniform set of rules for permanent commemorative information at the site.  It was unanimously accepted. 

Don Hermann described the July 4th activities which will include a Booth (tent) at Malone Park.  The classic WW II Jeep will also be available and we will use this opportunity to promote the Memorial Site.




July

Cash Donations                       $138066  (475) 

Brick Sales                                    42902  (350) 

In-Kind Donations                        39602

 Total Revenue to Date (July 23)                      $220570

 Cash Balance       $23270

Revenue from July 4th Tent totaled $501 including $150 in Patch sales by Dave Gilligan. 

Rush Wilkens, John Hopkins and Ted Wysocki selected the location and placement for the new Monument at the Memorial site.
Mary Jane Whitty presented the plan for the 1st Annual New Berlin Military Family Day scheduled for October 3rd.  It was agreed that any proceeds from food sales be donated to the Citizens Youth Academy.

 Ted Wysocki presented details for the 1st Annual Al Stigler Golf Tournament scheduled for September 3rd at the New Berlin Hills Golf Course.  Proceeds will be divided equally between the New Berlin Soap Box Derby, New Berlin Veterans Memorial and the Wisconsin Lions Camp.

 August

 Cash Donations                      $138216   (480)

 Brick Sales                                    43702   (359)

 In-Kind Donations                        43462

 Total Revenue to Date  (August 27)             $225380

 Cash Balance       $20961

 The “dearly departed” Maple tree has been replaced by Green Acres.  Rush Wilkens also reported that Action Landscaping will replace the Christmas tree.

Details for the Military Family Day event were presented by Mary Jane Whitty.  Sprecher will provide signage along National Ave. 

The Chamber of Commerce has cancelled the Annual Christmas Parade but the New Berlin Lions Club will continue to sponsor the Annual Christmas Tree lighting ceremony, scheduled for December 5th at the Memorial site.

 September

 Cash Donations                     No Change

 Brick Sales               N/C

 In-Kind Donations   N/C

 Total Revenue to Date (September 16)  N/C

 Cash Balance            N/C

 Bill Ray was introduced as our newest member of the Committee.  Bill is a Navy Veteran and a GE Retiree.  He was recruited by Lee Sisson. 

Schmelling Landscaping will install the new Christmas tree. 

Details for the Military Family Day were discussed. 

Ted Wysocki presented a check for $869 from the 1st Annual Al Stigler Golf Tournament.  He reported the event was an outstanding success. 

Bill Ray unveiled a new Brick Mapping project.  All agreed this will be a great addition to the Memorial site when the on-site locator is installed.  It will also be featured on the Web Site.

 

 October

 Cash Donations                              $139084   (483)

 Brick Sales                                            44102   (362)

 In-Kind Donations                                45806

 Total Revenue to Date  (October 1)                    $228992

 Cash balance                               $21858

 Specifics for the Military Family Day were finalized as follows;

 Mary Jane Whitty  -  Overall event responsibility

Rush Wilkens  -  M. C.

Don Hermann  -  Presentation of Colors

Jack Chiovatero  -  Opening & closing

John Vogel  -  Presenter

John Hopkins  -  Presenter

 Bill Ray demonstrated continued progress with the Brick Mapping project.

 November

 Cash Donations                             $139084  (483)

 Brick Sales                                          45262  (373)

 In-Kind Donations                              45806

 Total Revenue to Date  (November 5)      $230153

 Cash balance                     $22221

 Appreciation was expressed to all for their contribution in making the 1st Annual New Berlin Military Family Day an outstanding success.  The new Monument recognizing major donors was dedicated with approximately 250 citizens participating in this celebration.

 Amy Skrpchak presented a donation of $700 from the New Berlin Junior Women’s Club.  All expressed sincere gratitude and appreciation. 

Recognizing that our mission has been achieved (and then some) on this, the 5th Anniversary of this committee’s creation, the question of the next chapter or “Shaping the Future” of this activity was discussed and debated.  It was the general consensus that more can be accomplished in terms of recognizing and serving New Berlin Veterans and their families; therefore, it was agreed to continue moving forward with this worthwhile investment of time and effort.

 It was agreed to explore various options available and settle on a strategic direction at our final 2009 meeting next month. 

 

December

 Cash Donations                             $140845   (487)

 Brick Sales                                           45462   (375)

 In-Kind Donations                               45806

 Total Revenue to date (December 3)               $232113

 Cash Balance                        $23665

 Don Hermann reported a donation of $1500 from the Elizabeth Brinn Foundation…not included in the above revenue metrics.

 Following a spirited discussion on the future of this activity it was agreed, effective January 1, 2010, the New Berlin Veterans Committee would be changed to the

 NEW BERLIN VETERANS MEMORIAL SOCIETY 

Next, an Operating Budget for the calendar year 2010 was adopted as follows; 

Expenses     $6000
Revenue         9300
Contribution to Reserve      $3300 

A critical part of the revenue stream will be $4500 income generated from our 3rd Casino Night event.  Scheduled for February 20th at the VFW, Ted Wysocki volunteered to chair this activity.  

 

COMMENTARY

The year 2010 will bring both new challenges and opportunities.  While community acceptance is now a reality, it needs to be expanded and our mission supported.  The organizational change represents a new frontier that will enable us to engage more of the community in the process of recognizing and supporting our Veterans and their families.  With a strong, committed leadership team coupled with five solid years of experience working together, we are confident that the future of the New Berlin Veterans Memorial is both distinctive and encouraging.