#1018 Club Bulletin, April 6, 2026
Recap from the April 6, 2026, meeting.
Meeting run by President: Mark Roberts
Thought of the Day: Carlin Lawhead
Contact Mark to get on the Thought of the Day schedule.
Happy News/Announcements: All Happy News funds go towards our scholarship awards.
Jess Pfab- Jess shared that she has resigned from Muscatine Radiology and will be joining the world of real estate in Iowa City. While the change is bittersweet, she is grateful for the connections she has made through Rotary. Jess also welcomed Sherozna Teed, who will be joining Rotary to represent Muscatine Radiology. Jess’ last day with Muscatine Radiology is April 24.
Megan Francis- In honor of Public Health Week, Muscatine County Public Health will host an open house on Tuesday, April 7, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. This is a great opportunity to meet the Public Health team. On Wednesday, enjoy lunch or dinner at Applebee’s to support Trinity Muscatine Friends. Be sure to mention the fundraiser when you go.
Final Reading for Team Staffing Solutions. We are excited to have Cheri, Charity, and Alexia all join us from Team Staffing. Welcome to the Club.
Club Business:
- Remember the Rotary Foundation when you consider giving to organizations. The Foundation supports local and international service projects. You can give through ACH or check. Talk to Lindsey for more information.
- Garage Sale: Mary 30th Time TBD. Please start setting items aside to donate.
- Follow the Rotary Club of Muscatine’s Facebook page, @MuscatineRotaryClub.
- We are looking for members to join the board. This is a great opportunity to get involved and give back.
Presentation-
Liz Estilow- My G.E.A.R Outreach
Liz Estilow, founder and director of My G.E.A.R. Outreach, shared the mission of her organization, which provides comfort and support to children entering foster care for the first time. Founded in Clinton 10 years ago and serving Muscatine for the past four years, My G.E.A.R. Outreach is a 501c3 supported by corporate, church, and individual donations to help children ages 0–18 who are often removed from their homes with little to no belongings.
The organization provides “First Overnight Bags” filled with essential items and comfort items, including new pajamas, socks, underwear, a pillow and blanket, toiletries, journals, coloring books, and age-appropriate toys. Each bag is thoughtfully customized by age, gender, and in some cases, cultural needs, helping children feel seen and supported during a difficult transition.
With the average foster care stay lasting six months to a year or longer, these items make a meaningful difference. The cost to provide each bag has grown from about $75 to nearly $300 over the past 10 years. There is also an ongoing need for foster parents in our area.
For more information about My G.E.A.R. Outreach or how to get involved, please contact Liz at mygearoutreach@yahoo.com or visit their website. https://mygearoutreach.org/
Missed Monday’s Meeting? Enjoy the recording using the link below.
Passcode: u3a^g1B3
Next Meetings:
April 13- Sara Weisbeck: Prevention Coordinator, Robert Young
April 20- Carmen Galvin: Muscatine Child Protection Center
April 27- Heidi Fields: Muscatine Women’s Leadership Network