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LEADERSHIP

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ROTARY CLUB OF
Roswell

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Our Rotary Family
BIRTHDAYS

YEARS OF SERVICE

FAMILY OF ROTARY

Our membership cares deeply about the needs and concerns of our members. We don’t want to miss an opportunity to reach out in friendship when such concerns arise. The chairperson of this committee is Lynne Lindsey and all news should be directed to her at lynnehlindsay@outlook.com

President's Message
Celebrating Service, Success, and Fellowship

What an incredible week it has been for Roswell Rotary! Our Golf, Tennis, and Pickleball Fundraiser meeting once again showcased the power of this club when we come together with open hearts and rolled-up sleeves. The energy in the room was contagious—from the exciting auctions and the ball drop fundraiser to the laughter and camaraderie shared among friends. And of course, the costumes didn’t disappoint—thank you, Lynne Lindsay! It was a shining example of Rotary’s spirit in action.

Danny Wuerffel’s inspiring words from the previous week—that life is not about us, that every person matters, and that blessings are meant to be shared—resonated deeply throughout the event. These reminders became more than just words; they became action. Our Rotarians generously gave their time, talents, and treasures. Thanks to these collective efforts, we not only strengthened our biggest fundraiser of the year but also proudly raised enough to sponsor the Roswell Fire and Police Department golf teams once again. For the third consecutive year, they will compete for the Rotary Responders Cup, and we couldn’t be prouder to support those who protect and serve our community.

As John D. Rockefeller, Jr. wisely said, “Think of giving not as a duty but as a privilege.” Last week, Roswell Rotary embodied this spirit fully through duty, service, and generosity.

That spirit was also on display as 47 Roswell Rotarians showed up strong to support the Roswell Police Department in the Tunnel To Towers 5K Road Race, benefiting the Fallen Officer Fund.  An incredible event and my 2nd thank you to Lynne Lindsay for going all in on it.  Immediately afterward, our fellowship and generosity continued at Gate City Brewing, where we hosted another round of fundraising—this time buying “$20 beers” for a great cause. Our Golf, Tennis Pickleball leader, Ryan G., started something that will continue for years to come.  Between the road race and the pints raised, Roswell Rotary proved once again that when we show up, our impact multiplies.

This week, we turn our attention to something a little different but equally exciting: the art and business of brewing. Past President Gordon Owens will moderate a lively panel featuring some of Roswell’s top brewmasters, including representatives from Gate City Brewing (Rotarian-owned), Variant Brewing (Rotarian-owned), Voodoo Brewery, and From the Earth Brewing Company. Expect a fun and engaging program filled with stories, insights, and perhaps a few surprises.

The fun doesn’t stop at lunch! Our Roswell Rotary Beer Crawl kicks off at 5pm after Thursday’s meeting. Here’s the plan:

• 5:00–6:30 PM: We’ll begin at Gate City Brewing, where Rotarians can enjoy a special flight of beers.

• 6:30 PM: We’ll stroll across downtown Roswell to Variant Brewing, where another exclusive Rotary flight awaits.

• To top it off, a food truck will be parked outside Variant, ready to serve up something tasty for anyone who needs a little bite to go with their brews.

This is the perfect opportunity to build friendships, welcome guests, and celebrate the incredible momentum our club is experiencing.

As Benjamin Franklin famously quipped, “Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy.” So bring a friend, invite a colleague, and let’s raise a glass to fellowship, service, and the enduring spirit of Rotary.

Tapped In: Roswell Rotary Gets Crafty, Beer Crafty

Roswell Rotary is about to tap into something truly special. On Thursday, September 4th, we welcome four of Roswell’s finest brewing companies to the stage. The panel includes Pat Rains of Gate City Brewing, Matt Curling of Variant Brewing, Tim Stevens of From the Earth Brewing, and James Rouse of the newly arrived Voodoo Brewing. Moderated by Past District Governor Gordon Owens, this lively discussion will explore everything from the explosion of IPAs to the curious appeal of sour beers. Beyond the pint glass, our guests will share insights into the brewing process, the science behind the hops, and the business of beer, an industry that generated $715 million in Georgia last year alone.

But the fun doesn’t end with the meeting. After the panel, Rotarians are invited to a special Rotary flight at Gate City Brewing at 5pm, followed by a pub crawl to Variant Brewing at 6:30pm, complete with another flight and a food truck. With 181 craft breweries now thriving across Georgia, this event celebrates not just the flavors but the entrepreneurial spirit behind the taps. As Benjamin Franklin (almost) said, “Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy.” So bring your curiosity, maybe a designated driver, and join us for a night of education, camaraderie, and perfect pours. Cheers to service above self with a little fun along the way.  Read more about our hometown brewers.

Pat Rains

Pat Rains, co-founder of Gate City Brewing Company, is an accomplished entrepreneur with deep roots in the food and beverage industry. A graduate of Oregon State University with a BA in International Business, Pat began his brewing journey after relocating from Portland to Atlanta, driven by a desire to recreate the craft beer styles he grew up enjoying. What started as a homebrewing hobby quickly evolved into a full-fledged business when he teamed up with fellow Rotarian Brian Borngesser. Together, they launched Gate City Brewing, which was named one of the fastest-growing breweries in the U.S. by the Brewers Association in 2017.

Pat’s leadership and commitment to community have earned him recognition as a nominee in Roswell Magazine’s “Top 10 Under 40,” celebrating young professionals making a meaningful impact. Under his guidance, Gate City has become a force for good, supporting local and national charities such as the Drake Foundation, Pitt Hopkins Foundation, and the Children’s Development Academy. Pat also championed the creation of Freedom Fighter IPA, with proceeds benefiting organizations combatting human trafficking in Atlanta.

Known for his collaborative spirit and belief in the “local beverage” movement, Pat continues to champion neighborhood-focused brewing. He’s passionate about creating meaningful connections through craft beer and values the opportunity to engage directly with the community. From small-batch beginnings to large-scale production, Pat’s journey reflects a deep commitment to quality, authenticity, and purpose-driven business.

Tim Stevens

Tim Stevens began his hospitality journey at just 15 years old, waiting tables in Clearwater, Florida. His passion for the industry led him to Atlanta, where he earned a degree in Hospitality Administration from Georgia State University. Tim quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the youngest General Manager at Buckhead Life Restaurant Group and overseeing acclaimed establishments like Nava and Chops Steakhouse. His early career was marked by accolades in wine selection and service excellence, establishing the momentum that would carry through his career.

In 2017, Tim and his wife Lisa opened From the Earth Brewing Company (FTE) in East Roswell, blending craft beer, locally sourced food, and live music into a vibrant community hub. Their innovative approach, especially during the pandemic when they introduced parking lot concerts and offsite beer garden experiences, helped FTE thrive and deepen its roots in Roswell. In 2023, the couple launched Bask Steakhouse next door, a fine-dining concept inspired by Tim’s culinary roots and built with a commitment to premium ingredients, local partnerships, and warm, club-like ambiance.

Beyond the kitchen and brewhouse, Tim’s dedication to community shines through. From supporting local schools and nonprofits to donating spent grain to farmers for livestock feed and compost, his mission has always been to give back. With nearly 30 years in the restaurant industry, Tim Stevens continues to shape Roswell’s dining scene.

Matthew Curling

Matthew Curling is the founder and operator of Variant Brewing Company, a Roswell-based brewery known for its inventive approach to craft beer. After earning his degree in business management in 2012, Matt’s passion for homebrewing quickly evolved into a professional pursuit. He gained early experience at Cherry Street Brewing in Cumming before working as a Business Analyst from 2015 to 2017, all while developing plans for Variant. In late 2017, he opened the brewery on Norcross Street, transforming a bright, industrial space into a welcoming taproom that reflects his hometown roots and creative spirit.

Variant Brewing lives up to its name by embracing experimentation and variety. Matt and his team have crafted over 300 unique beers, constantly exploring new ingredients, techniques, and flavor profiles. Inspired by the complexity of brewing, much like cooking, Matt sees each recipe as an opportunity to innovate. Whether it’s tweaking hop combinations or introducing unexpected adjuncts like herbs and spices, the goal is always the same: deliver quality, consistency, and a memorable experience for every guest who walks through the door.

Outside the brewery, Matt enjoys spending time with his six-year-old son Liam, making hot sauces, running, skiing, reading, and playing video games. He’s also deeply engaged in the Roswell community, supporting local art through the “Art Around Roswell” sculpture tour and recommending favorite spots like Canton Street, Vickery Creek, and East Roswell Park. For Matt, Variant Brewing isn’t just a business, it’s a way to connect, create, and contribute to the place he proudly calls home.

James Rouse

James Rouse is the co-owner of Voodoo Brewing Company in Roswell, Georgia, alongside his wife, Betsy Rouse. James was born in Okinawa, Japan, into an Air Force family, which meant moving all over the map—from the frozen tundra of Fairbanks, Alaska, to the southern charm of Charleston, South Carolina. Growing up on the go taught him adaptability, resilience, and how to thrive in what he likes to call “life’s ultimate training ground.”

He started his career the old-fashioned way, by rolling up his sleeves and doing the work. Over time, his persistence and “never quit” attitude pushed him into leadership roles. At Woodgrain Distribution Company, James worked his way up from an entry-level rep to Regional Manager, leading a team of 60 and keeping 400 stores running smoothly. In 2018, he joined Octane5 and made a big impact by streamlining processes and rethinking how things got done. His knack for solving problems with smart, creative solutions landed him the role of Director of Production, where he managed everything from people to processes with an eye on innovation.

By 2024, James decided it was time to take his love of leadership, community, and great beer into a whole new adventure, opening his own Voodoo Brewing Company franchise. With a focus on craft beer, elevated pub food, and a welcoming community vibe, James is building more than just a brewpub—he’s building a place where people come together.

Pub Crawl Thursday Sept 4 5pm

• 5:00–6:30 PM: We’ll begin at Gate City Brewing, where Rotarians can enjoy a special flight of beers.

• 6:30 PM: We’ll stroll across downtown Roswell to Variant Brewing, where another exclusive Rotary flight awaits.

• To top it off, a food truck will be parked outside Variant, ready to serve up something tasty for anyone who needs a little bite to go with their brews.

This is the perfect opportunity to build friendships, welcome guests, and celebrate the incredible momentum our club is experiencing.

Golf-Tennis-Pickleball

https://birdease.com/30819

Sign Up for Sponsorship
Thank You Premium Sponsors!

Thank you for your Premium Sponsorship of the 2025 Golf-Tennis-Pickleball Tournament

• Patsy & Bill Wolff- Diamond Golf & Tennis Sponsor
• Patrick Family Foundation-Rally Rockstar Pickleball 
• Mayor Kurt Wilson-Gold Golf 
• Jim Coyle-MediStreams- Gold Golf
• Tod Baker- Carl Black-Gold Golf
• Lori Allen & Jon-Paul Croom- WellStar Gold Golf
• Bob Hagan- Sterling- Round Robin Tennis
• Lee Hollingsworth- Round Robin Tennis
• Swank Law Group- Bill Swank-Silver Golf
• State Farm-Trummie Lee Patrick III- Silver Golf 
• Stone Law Group- James Stone-Silver Golf 
• WS Nielsen- Mike Nielsen-Silver Golf 
• Atlanta Re-Roof- Andrew Darby-Silver Golf
• Brown & Co- Frank Brown-Silver Golf
• Carpet Depot- Matt Thomas-Silver Golf
• Geico- John Gordon-Silver Golf
• Sandy Buhler- Court Tennis
• Schmit & Associates- Dave Schmit -Court Tennis
• Good Life Travel-Chris Archer- Court Tennis

Every Member Participates
What is YOUR Role in This Year's Tournament?

Find your role in this year's tournament. It is our big fundraiser and we need YOU! So many opportunities to participate and make a difference. Look at the graphic above and pick the item(s) that work for you! If you have questions, here is who to contact:

• Pickleball & Tennis- Rich Austin richclean@bellsouth.net & Mindy Jones goldyall@aol.com
• Golf- James Stone james@stonelaw.com or Ryan Gehricke rgehricke@lanternrealestategroup.com
• Golf Sponsors- James Stone james@stonelaw.com & Ryan Gerhike rgehricke@lanternrealestategroup.com
• Pickleball Donations- President Trummie Lee trummie@trummie.com
• After Hours Pop-Up- Peter Saddler petersaddler@outlook.com
• Volunteers- Nancy Alterman nancyhalterman8@gmail.com
• 50/50 Raffle- Nancy Alterman nancyhalterman8@gmail.com
• Ball Drop- Shannon Harrison shharrison2020@gmail.com
• Wine & Bourbon donations- Katie Anderson ktucker@ehla.com
• Sending donation letters to your contacts- Joe Mazzeo joemazzeo1@gmail.com

Or stop by the Golf-Tennis-Pickleball Table at lunch!

50-50 Keeps Growing!

The pot keeps growing every day. Tickets will be sold right up until the drawing. See Nancy Alterman for tickets! And look for the 50-50 signs at the tournament! How big will it grow?

We Need Your Dark Spirits
Bourbon and Red Wine Collection for Tournament Wine Pull

Katie Anderson is making an urgent ask!  Please help us with the wine and bourbon collection for the bottle pull at the tournament. She will be collecting your donated bottles each weekat the tournament table. Or you can drop donations off at her office E Home Loan Advisors 595 W Crossville Road Roswell, GA 30075 -especially if you are donating wines that need to be kept cool. This is a super popular feature of the tournament and a great money maker! Guidelines - Bourbon/Whiskey bottles should be $40 value and up.  Red wine donations should be $30 value and up. Thanks for making this event a success. Contact Katie Anderson ktucker @ehla.com if you have questions. 

Remember, Katie is begging you to help!

Board Member Spotlight
Hal Schlenger- Public Image Chair

Having lived in six states prior to settling in East Cobb in 1998, Hal Schlenger worked in product and account management for technology companies, including 2 years in Silicon Valley. Along the way, Hal joined Rotary in 1987, applying leadership values taught by his dad and also learned as a graduate assistant at the Dale Carnegie Institute. 

Enabling small/middle market businesses to thrive by providing innovative, forward-thinking employee benefits has become Hal’s passion because it aligns with his values of helping others to be their best. He applies his leadership philosophy with Conscious Capitalism in Atlanta in order to restore the good name of capitalism.

Married to Alison, a nurse practitioner caring for dementia patients and their family, they have an adult son Zak, married to Natasha with two fun grandchildren, Gia and
 Caleb. Having fostered more than 100 Golden Retrievers, they are also involved in the Interfaith community in North Fulton.

Interesting fact: In addition to teaching sailing on Lake Lanier, Hal also conducts business and business development aboard a 32” sailboat instead of on a golf course.

Sat. Sept 20 8:30am
Rivers Alive- Sweep the Hooch

Save the Date: Saturday September 20, 8:30 AM till Noon! Annual Statewide River cleanup, locally sponsored by Keep Roswell Beautiful and City of Roswell. Call or text Dutch Earle 770-403-0755 for more details and to sign up.

Great project for families!

Juan Saves the Day

Last Thursday, we came frighteningly close to a fried chicken disaster. The fryer decided to break and Juan heroically made an executive decision to pan fry the fried chicken for our lunch manually. Thank you Juan for always making sure that Roswell Rotary Club has the best fried chicken ever. And now you know the rest of the story. 

Last Week at Rotary