Rotary Club of New Berlin, New Berlin Rotary, what is rotaryA fascinating look at "a very unusual country"
 
Members of the Rotary Club of New Berlin were treated to an interesting look at Ethiopia during their meeting on Dec. 10. Frequent traveler Rex Fritischi talked about his trip, which he took back in March.
 
Formally known as the Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, the country occupies an area of approximately 420,000 square miles in the Horn of Africa. Its population of roughly 88 million is "very religious," Rex says; 85-90% are members of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. Churches were a common theme in Rex's presentation. He offered numerous images of churches both modern and old; some dated to 5th or 6th century BC. One, St. Mary of Zion Church (in Axum), claims to hold the Ark of the Covenant.
 
Rex, a certified travel consultant, has more than 30 years of travel experience involving approximately 160 countries. He was amazed and enlightened while traveling throughout Ethiopia, which he called "a very unusual country."
 
Rex's images displayed many facets of Ethiopia, including market day, the terrain (both high ground and lowlands), daily life, school days, farming, and more. With religion playing such a pivotal role in everyday life, we were treated to numerous colorful religious displays in churches and privately held artwork.
-----------------------------------------------
 
Rotary Club of New Berlin, New Berlin Rotary, what is rotaryWrapping up Christmas cheer for needy families
 
After our meeting on Dec. 10, club members wrapped gifts for three needy families in the area. This is a regular project for the Rotary Club of New Berlin, and one which brings us the most pride.
 
The gifts are scheduled to be delivered on Dec. 18.