Recap from the May 6, 2024 Meeting.
Meeting run by: President, Megan Francis
Thought of the day: Holly Peterson
Welcome Guests: Gretchen Nollman, JoAnn Ruby, DG Dennis Drager, Mark Ruggeberg, Bill Koellner.
Paul Harris Fellowship Presentation:
Mark Ruggeberge and Bill Koellner from D6000 and DG Dennis Drager recognized Mike and JoAnn Ruby as beacons of philanthropy and their dedication to the Rotary Foundation. Mike joined in 1979, served as president 2x, and held many district leadership roles, including District Governor. They have given over $100,000, reaching Major Donor level 4.
The Ruby’s accept the recognition today as a message to others that others can and should give. These donations are literally changing the world, and it is our charity of choice.
Watch the full presentation at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092433505060
Club News:
- Follow the Rotary Club of Muscatine’s Facebook page, @MuscatineRotaryClub.
- ACH forms are available for easy dues payment.
- Mobile Food Pantry Volunteer Opportunity: Use the link below to sign up for the next Mobile Food Pantry on May 7. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rmtNfi25shfn2S1LYG0e56iVwcMj2VA9X6FB5WU_vS4/edit
- Garage sale fundraiser, May 11th, 8am- 3pm. All proceeds will support Rotary projects. Donations can be dropped off at Crossroads between 8 am and 4 pm—Check-in at the front desk. Steve Snider has a truck available Wednesday to help move large donations. Email him at ssnider@muscatineiowa.org. We will have a pricing event on May 10.
Pricing Volunteers: 5/10 3-7 pm: Megan Francis, Lindsey Phillips, Holly Peterson
Garage Sale Volunteers: 5/11- email Lindsey Phillips to sign up: lphillips@muscatiney.org
7 am-10:30 am- Carlin Lawhead, Erika Cox, Lindsey Phillips
- m-1:30 pm- Mike Ruby, Holly Peterson
1 pm-3:30 pm- Lindsey Phillips
- Please consider offering aid to those affected by tornado damage in any way you can, whether with time, talent, or treasure. If you can, consider contacting GoServGlobal at office@goservglobal.org or call 515-448-3131 to see how you can help them as they mobilize to assist within these communities. Please consider donating in support of TORNADO RECOVERY for these communities. Please send checks to HEF at Rotary District 6000 H.E.F. PO Box 5774 Coralville, IA 52241-5774
Presentation-
Niki Nienhaus- Executive Director- Flickinger Learning Center
Niki is the new executive director of Flickinger Learning Center. She shared her journey and history with the program that led her here today.
New Things: Through a partnership with United Way and Kendall Emmert, The Bridge, a teen drop-in center, is set to open this summer. Location is currently being piloted at Flickinger Learning Center in May, June, and July. They will provide meals and snacks and have access to the food pantry as well. The goal is to be a safe place and help them gain self-sufficiency and connections to services.
Flickinger continues to partner with organizations to expand programming for students. Partners include MCC, The United Way, Stanley Center for Peace and Security, ISU Extension, and special projects with the Muscatine Arts Council.
Next Meetings: May 13- Chemo Riders; May 20- Xicotepec Project; May 27- No Meeting.