Originally Published in the Cedarburg News Graphic on Thursday, June 13, 2024
MEQUON — The Mequon-Thiensville Community Foundation last week presented Connie Pukaite the 2024 Pillar of the Community award, which recognizes a Mequon-Thiensville community member who has had a significant impact on making the city and village great places to live and work.
A sold-out crowd of over 275 family, friends, guests and dignitaries gathered at the North Shore Country Club to celebrate the former Mequon mayor and her many contributions to the community, including her service as alderwoman for three terms, mayor and chairwoman of the Planning Commission from 1986 to 1992, and president of the Mequon Police and Fire Commission for three years.
“We all need role models, Connie, and though you may feel a little selfconscious about this honor, your contributions, your role-modeling, the manner in which you worked for the common good, remind us of the power of civic accord,” said Lee Szymborski, a former Mequon city administrator, fellow rotarian and 25year Mequon resident.
According to MTCF President Lori Lorenz, the event netted over $75,000, with $30,000 going towards MTCF’s general fund to be used for grants to the community and the rest donated to help fund the development of a connector trail between Spirit Lake and Pukaite Woods — the 18-acre parcel of land that Pukaite was honored with on her last day as mayor.
In addition to honoring Pukaite, the event also featured several notable presentations to commemorate MTCF’s 25th anniversary and its significant impact it has had on the community. First, State Sen. Dan Knodl, R-Germantown, presented a Citation by the Senate plaque, recognizing the foundation’s commendable mission and efforts to maintain high-quality facilities, services and programs throughout the city and village. Mequon Mayor Andrew Nerbun and Thiensville Village President John Rosing then each presented Proclamation plaques to the foundation to honor and celebrate 25 years of service and dedication to the betterment of the communities.
In a surprising gesture, Mayor Nerbun even officially declared June 4, 2024, as Mequon-Thiensville Community Foundation Day, urging residents, businesses, and community members to show their support and extend appreciation for the members’ service and efforts that have enhanced and strengthened the city of Mequon.
“The MTCF would like to thank and acknowledge the generous support of their sponsors: Title and Platinum Sponsor, Gentian Financial; Gold Sponsor, Sommer’s Automotive Group; and Silver Sponsor, Spectrum Investment Advisors as well as their numerous Table Sponsors and Underwriters,” according to a MTCF press release.
Since 1999, the nonprofit has granted over $1.1 million to fund recreational, municipal, beautification, and historical endeavors throughout the two communities. To learn more about the group, where to donate, or how to become involved, go to www.mtcfgives.org.
Photos courtesy of Jean Hill