June 22, 2009 Club Bulletin #287

Posted by Sara Fitzer-Huston 
 
 

Week of June 22, 2009

 

Today's Program:  Shane Orr and Debra Yonish, staff members of United Way of Muscatine, will explain the Local Information-N-Connection to Services and Volunteer Solutions Programs.

 

Song Leader for June: Marilyn Smith

 

Invocation: Rich Dwyer

 

Program Chair for June: Sr. Irma Ries

 

In Case You Missed It

Our presentation on Monday was given by Jeff Jirak, Muscatine Police Department, on gang activity in Muscatine.  Jeff has been with the department for 17 years and has spent a great deal of time combating gang activity during that time.  Jeff shared that the two biggest gangs in Muscatine are the Black Gangster Disciples and Latin Kings.  Jeff predicted that gang activity will steadily increase over the next few years as many of the gang members that were sent to prison are now being released and returning to Muscatine.  Most gang members are recruited into the gang at age 10 or 11.  Members gain status by committing crimes and serving prison time.  Jeff is hoping to bring back the Street Crimes Unit which was disassembled a few years ago due to funding decreases.  This unit is the key to decreasing gang activity and keeping our community safe.  When asked what we as individuals could do to combat the increase in gang activity Jeff said the best thing anyone can do is to be an active parent in your children's life.  Gangs thrive on youth who do not have a strong family base or parental involvement.  To learn more about gang activity contact Jeff at the Police Department.

June 15th Guests

  • JoAnn Jensen, guest of Bob Jensen
  • Jim Bready, guest of Bill Schafenacker  

June 15th Club Announcements

  • August 17th is Rotary Night at Modern Woodman Park.  Please come at 7 p.m. to help raise funds for Polio Plus and enjoy a night at the ballpark.  See Karen for more information.
  • First reading for membership for Drew Burkamper of Lee Agency, Inc.  Drew is sponsored by Zach Klipsch, if you have any concerns about this proposed member please speak to a Board member.
  • Melanie Alexander and committee are seeking nominations for the following Rotary awards: Vocational Achievement, Citizen of the Year Award, and Robert L. Roach Award for Lifetime Service.  If you would like to nominate someone for one of these awards please speak to Melanie.
  • Diana Gradert invited Rotarians to attend the Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine Area to attend their Annual Meeting on Tuesday, June 16 at 5 p.m.
  • Thank you notes from Morgan Othmer and Ashley Titus were shared giving thanks to Rotary for the scholarships received.
  • Please welcome new member Mark Nelson of Edward Jones.  Mark is sponsored by Harvey Allbee.
  • Bob Jensen received sustaining Paul Harris Member Award.  Bob is the founder and President of TEMP Associates and dedicated community member.  JoAnn Jensen presented Bob with his Paul Harris pin.  Thank you, Bob, for your dedication to Rotary and our community. 

Happy News

  • Tim Nelson thanked Ann Moody for her service as Secretary for our club.  Thank you Ann for all that you do for Rotary!
  • Bob Jensen welcomed all Rotarians to attend the Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine Annual Meeting with guest speaker Barry Griswell, former Chairman and CEO of Principal Financial Group.
  • Kip Fisher congratulated Gayle Roberts for recent award for her work at Stanley Consultants. 

Coming Up.

June  29:  Christy Roby-Williams, Muscatine Regional Empowerment,  will speak on collaboration efforts involving early care, education, health and human services on behalf of children and families residing in the area.

July 7:  Make-up meeting at Snackers 7:30 a.m.

July 21:  Make-up meeting at Snackers 7:30 a.m.