Recap from the April 21, 2025, Meeting.
Meeting run by President, Mike Wedell
Thought of the day: Moriah Ellis
Welcome to our guests: Lindsey Welch, Krista Regennitter, and Peggy Gordon.
Welcome to the online members: Shane Orr
Happy News/Announcements: All Happy News funds go towards our scholarship awards.
Sarah Lande- Happy to welcome two guests, Peggy and Krista. Both ladies were recently honored as Volunteer of the Year by Sister Cities. Lindsey Phillips- Please take a yard sale flyer and sign up to help price and organize donations on Friday, May 9, or during the sale on May 10.
Club Business:
- Follow the Rotary Club of Muscatine’s Facebook page, @MuscatineRotaryClub.
- We are looking for members to join the board and/or help with programs and membership. This is a great opportunity to get involved and give back.
- May 10- Garage Sale Fundraiser. Donations will be brought to Crossroads starting on Monday, May 5. Sign up to help during the sale. Shifts are Friday, May 9, to price items at Crossroads or three shifts during the garage sale on May 10.
- Work started on the Pocket Park. We will update the Rotary grant activity as that process continues.
- Lisa Heckman is looking for volunteers to share a Thought of the Day. Please email her at heckmanlisa@hotmail.com to get on the schedule.
- Volunteer Opportunities:
- Mobile Food Pantry Volunteer Opportunity: Volunteers are still needed from 4-5:30 on May 6. Use the link below to sign up if you are available. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rmtNfi25shfn2S1LYG0e56iVwcMj2VA9X6FB5WU_vS4/edit
Presentation-
Yoko Tanaka- Cranes of Friendship
The Japan America Society of Iowa (JASI) is a nonprofit, volunteer-based organization that seeks to establish mutual understanding between the Japanese and American communities in Iowa. JASI provides opportunities to its members and the public to participate in social, cultural, and educational activities.
Origami's exact origin is unknown, but by the 1st century, paper folding was used for religious ornaments. In the 14th–15th centuries, folded paper known as noshi became part of gift-giving rituals, eventually evolving into the traditional art form now recognized as heritage origami.
Origami crane-making is a beloved tradition in Japan, symbolizing peace, hope, and togetherness, passed down through generations. Some origami creations are even celebrated as fine art. Through this meaningful tradition, the Japan America Society of Iowa (JASI) invites local communities and schools across Iowa to share in the joy of crafting and connecting.
Our project offers both in-person and Zoom sessions to teach participants the art of crane-making. Together, we will create a magnificent display of one thousand cranes, with each strand labeled by its community of origin. These cranes will join a special exhibit welcoming a donation of 1,000 cranes from Yamanashi, Japan, in celebration of cultural exchange and 65 years of friendship between the Sister States.
Missed Monday’s meeting? Catch up using the recording link below.
Passcode: Rotary#1
Next Meetings:
April 28- Meet the City Administrator
May 5- Impact Life
May 12- TTT Chapter
May 19- Parks & Rec Capitol Projects