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Editorial
4 Governor's Message 6 DCON 18 Events 20 A Look at Clubs 30 Kiwanis Voices 32 Celebrate Club Growth 34 LTG Summit 36 The Possibility Project 38 District Updates 40 New Club and SLP Charters 41 District Coloring Books 42 Future Training 43 DCON Early Bird Special 44 Extra Mile Award Letter 45 Train-the-Trainers 46 ICON 47 In Loving Memory 48 Editor's Message 49 Helpful Links
Contents
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 488 Schulenburg, TX 78956 www.txokkiwanis.org www.txokkiwanis.org/contact-us/ www.facebook.com/texasoklahomakiwanis www.instagram.com/texas.oklahoma.kiwanis/ www.linkedin.com/company/txokkiwanis https://vimeo.com/user95154993 www.youtube.com/@txokkiwanis
Editor: Evelyn Herrera Public Relations Coordinator: Pending District Governor: John Cano Contributing Writers: John Cano, lyndel cook, Mark Crouch, Tanya Dunlap, Paul Heinz, Susan Hennum, Evelyn Herrera, Joe Holland, Jeanette Kelley, Denise Kornegay, Marshall Kregel, Michael Laurel, Randy McDaniel, Glenda Rast, Al Richard, Blake Swarnes, Barbara Walker, Brian Walker, Alix Wallace, and Joanne Wisdom
texas oklahoma district
Texas Oklahoma Kiwanis District Governor's Message John Cano
Hello Kiwanians and friends, We’re halfway through the Kiwanis year, and the rest will zoom by us quickly! Spring and summer are busy times for many clubs with festivals, fundraisers, and major events. Lately I’ve been trying to keep up with my exercise and gym routine. Don’t you ever wish just joining the gym would yield results? After all, you’re paying for that gym membership - shouldn’t that count for something? When I thought about that recently, I realized that joining a Kiwanis Club is not so different! Just joining the club doesn’t result in community impact or professional or personal growth. We have to work out our “Kiwanis muscles” to see results by stepping up to lead projects and committees, participating in hands-on service projects, and being visible in the community. Last month we had a special promotion for the CKI Legacy Fund’s Cornerstone Patron recognition level. We had one gift matched, allowing one club to double their recognition efforts! A new match program for the $250 Legacy Fund patron recognitions will be matched up to $2000 in April and May - find out more on our social media accounts. In March we also kicked off the building efforts for a new club in the Sugar Land area and have plans to continue club building by organizing a new club in Katy in late May. By building clubs west of Houston, we can take advantage of an incredible opportunity to provide sponsorship to Key Clubs that don’t have a sponsor and bring more service to children in these rapidly growing communities. Over the past couple of months I had the pleasure of visiting clubs in South Texas during my stay in Victoria, and the Kiwanis Club of Victoria is now temporarily displaying the Governor’s Home Club banner. In mid-February I visited four clubs in the Corpus Christi area during my stay in Port Aransas. The sunrises over the beach were a daily delight, and riding the ferry between Aransas Pass and Port Aransas was always a fun experience. At Tuesday lunch with the Kiwanis Club of Corpus Christi, I learned about the six bingo nights they present on Tuesday evenings in February and March at HardKnocks Bar and Grill. Proceeds go to their foundation and support community projects. At Wednesday lunch with the Kiwanis Club of Corpus Christi Bay, they were in final planning stages for their three-day Golden Gloves boxing tournament. In a celebration of athleticism and good sportsmanship, since 1998 the club has hosted the amateur tournament that was first held in Corpus Christi in 1947. I had the honor of handing out trophies to the participants after a number of bouts! Finally, I had lunch on Thursday with the Kiwanis Club of Sinton, hosting an interclub with the neighboring Kiwanis Club of Taft. The members in Sinton were preparing for their long-running annual pancake supper that was held on February 23. All of the clubs displayed how they are doing their part to Embrace Excellence by working collaboratively to enhance their projects and impact on their communities! At the end of February I attended the 72nd annual convention for the Texas-Oklahoma District of CKI. College students from across the district gathered to learn, have some fun, and elect the new leaders for their organization. As a service project, they assembled backpacks for kids for comfort when a disaster strikes. To have some fun, they made their own masquerade masks for the convention’s theme of “Unmask Your Why” in exploring their calling for service. A favorite tradition for their weekend events is "warm fuzzy" paper bag mailboxes so attendees can leave notes for one another and enjoy reading them on the way home. Our district’s Kiwanis Committee on CKI, led by Colleen Biggerstaff, is instrumental in the continuity and success of the program. Volunteers from the district also included Chris Bunkoff presenting on team building and Susan Hennum ensuring the meetings ran smoothly. Board members from the Texas-Oklahoma Kiwanis Foundation were on-site to conduct over two dozen scholarship interviews for the students over the course of three days and gave $16,000 in awards. We’re proud of our collegiate branch of the Kiwanis family for a successful year and look forward to their growth and leadership in the future! On April 16 I head to Wichita Falls for the Leadership Education District Conference (LEDCON) for Texas-Oklahoma Key Club! In May I’ll visit the Kiwanis Club of Edmond’s Aiming for Miracles annual sporting clay event fundraiser benefitting the Children’s Health Foundation, the Kiwanis Club of South Oklahoma City’s 100th anniversary celebration, and a visit to the Kiwanis Club of Sapulpa/Division 25/Region 8. On June 13 I’ll start my day in Nacogdoches for the club’s Blueberry Pancake Breakfast during the city’s Texas Blueberry Festival and end the day with Kiwanis Night at Fiesta Noche del Rio hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Alamo, San Antonio. From there, it’s on to Manila, Philippines, for the Kiwanis International convention! Remember to check our District Calendar and use it to reference some of my scheduled visits and special engagements, important dates, and activities across the district: https://www.txokkiwanis.org/district-calendar/ We’re sharing a lot of exciting information in this issue about our District Convention in July, and in our June issue of Ki-Notes we’ll have an even more detailed agenda. The committee in Texarkana has been hard at work putting together a phenomenal convention, and you won’t want to miss it! Thank you again for all of the service you’re doing in your communities and for your support of our district programs and initiatives. Let’s Embrace Excellence in the second half of our remaining Kiwanis year!
DCON in Texarkana We are absolutely thrilled to welcome you to Texarkana for the Kiwanis District Convention this year at the Texarkana Convention Center! It is truly an honor to host such an incredible group of leaders who are passionate about serving others and making a difference in their communities. Get ready to experience a place like no other! Texarkana is uniquely positioned on the border of Texas and Arkansas, giving us our famous nickname, the “Twin Cities.” While you’re here, don’t miss your chance to stand in two states at once at the iconic State Line Post Office and Federal Building; it’s a must-see (and a must-photo!) moment. Beyond the conference, Texarkana is full of charm, history, and fun just waiting to be explored: Step back in time with a visit to the one-of-a-kind Ace of Clubs House, a fascinating home you won’t find anywhere else. Car enthusiasts and history lovers alike will enjoy the Four States Auto Museum, showcasing a remarkable collection of classic and vintage vehicles. If you’re looking to relax and recharge, enjoy the natural beauty of Spring Lake Park or venture out to Wright Patman Lake for peaceful views and fresh air. For a taste of local culture, explore the creativity and exhibits at the 1829 Gallery and through TRAHC (Texarkana Regional Arts & Humanities Council), where local talent and regional art truly shine. While the historic Perot Theatre is currently undergoing improvements, it remains a beloved landmark and a symbol of the rich history that defines Texarkana. When the sun goes down, Texarkana offers just as much energy and connection. Enjoy a relaxing evening with friends at The Eagle Bourbon & Wine Lounge, known for its inviting atmosphere and great selection, or step into a unique, speakeasy-style experience at the 1923 Banana Club, perfect for unwinding and making lasting memories with fellow Kiwanians. Texarkana is more than just a destination; it’s a community built on kindness, connection, and genuine hospitality. From friendly faces to great food and unforgettable experiences, we hope you feel right at home from the moment you arrive. As you gather, learn, and celebrate throughout the conference, we encourage you to explore, connect, and enjoy all that our “Twice as Nice” city has to offer. Welcome to Texarkana; we’re so glad you’re here! Barbara Walker 2026 District Convention Chair
Bulliten/Newsletter Contest Submissions Due Website/Facebook Contest Submissions Due
Byron Williams is a Texarkana native whose life has been shaped by football, faith, and a deep commitment to giving back. As a former NFL wide receiver, Byron turned his success on the field into a lifelong mission to serve young people and strengthen communities. His journey from a local standout athlete to a professional one and trusted mentor reflects perseverance, purpose, and a belief in using one’s platform to uplift others. As the founder of the Best Wishes Foundation, Byron uses sports as a bridge to mentorship, health awareness, and character development. For the complete bio on Mr. Williams, check out our 2026 DCON convention page. We will be adding things to this as we get nearer to releasing registration. Don’t miss out!
The District Convention begins on Thursday night, July 23. The evening kicks off with a welcome reception. The next morning, on Friday, July 24, the convention officially begins. Members will have the opportunity to join workshops, learn, and grow. From sharpening leadership skills to building confidence through hands-on activities, there is much fun to be had Friday. End your night by joining Family Fun Night on Friday night at the 1923 Banana Club in Texarkana. Guests are encouraged to dress in their best 1920s-inspired attire to the speakeasy-style venue. Finally, the House of Delegates is held on Saturday, and the convention concludes on Saturday evening with the Governor’s Banquet. Can you believe this is only a peek of what's in store? Stay tuned for more info, including Spouse's Tours, the silent auction, charitable giving, and convention speakers!
JUNE 30
Proceeds from the silent auction at our July District Convention will support the Beds for Kids Ministry of Walnut Church of Christ. In 2025, the program placed 204 beds and served 85 families, with help from 280 volunteers. Beyond beds, families received essential items like furniture, clothing, and emergency assistance. Serving primarily Bowie, Cass, Miller, and Little River counties, the ministry continues to make a meaningful impact because a bed provides more than sleep; it offers comfort, stability, and a better path forward for children. Auction items should be brought to the convention and turned in by Friday at noon. Items should have a value of no less than $25.
Kiwanis members attending this year’s annual district convention are invited to a special Family Fun Night on Friday at the 1923 Banana Club in Texarkana. This unique speakeasy-style venue will set the stage for an evening of laughter, fellowship, and fun for all ages. Children and adults are both welcome, so bring the whole family and enjoy a memorable night together. The evening will feature a lively game of SINGO, combining music and fun in a way everyone can enjoy. To make the night even more festive, guests are encouraged to dress in their best 1920s-inspired attire. Whether you go full Gatsby glam or add just a touch of Roaring Twenties flair, it’s sure to make the evening even more special.
This year at the Kiwanis District Convention, we encourage you to support two local nonprofits that are making a powerful impact in our community. We Are Washington The first organization is We Are Washington, a community development center in Texarkana, Arkansas. Their mission is to unite people and promote growth, and as their founder emphasizes, “the community owns Washington.” This means everyone—families, children, and neighbors—is a part of it. The center features a recreation wing that provides engaging activities to keep kids off the streets and out of trouble. Their life skills wing includes nine nonprofit organizations and numerous community partners, offering free classes for both youth and adults. These programs provide vital resources such as pregnancy support, youth empowerment, food security, entrepreneurship, and essential life skills—making this one of the few centers like it in our area. To support this organization, we are asking you to bring new or gently used books for 1st through 7th grade students. These books will help stock their library and give children the opportunity to build strong reading skills. East Texas Food Bank The second organization we are supporting is the East Texas Food Bank. According to Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap study, approximately 18% of Bowie County residents—including more than 29% of children—are food insecure and at risk of hunger. The East Texas Food Bank serves over 9,300 low-income households through programs like the Backpack Program, Senior Box Program, and Mobile Pantry Program. In fiscal year 2025 alone, they provided approximately 34 million meals, including over 2.1 million meals in Bowie County. To support their efforts, we are asking you to bring non-perishable food items such as peanut butter, canned proteins like tuna, chicken, or chili, soups, and other shelf-stable goods. These items are especially important for individuals and families who may not have consistent access to a kitchen or adequate food storage. Every item you bring helps meet a real need right here in our community. Thank you for being part of the impact.
Coni Meyers is a force of nature. Her extensive experience and expertise in crisis management and leadership have made her a renowned figure in the field. Coni is a 6X international bestselling author and speaker. She is dedicated to ensuring that individuals and communities become sustainable and are well-prepared during times of disaster. Coni Meyers spent 7 years as a FEMA inspector and trainer (over 50 disasters and 1000s of inspectors trained). She saw a real need for information about preparedness, survival, recovery, and sustainability. BePreparedBeReady.org was founded to create a network of resilient individuals that can empower their communities through events and education. We team with community leaders, other nonprofits, and businesses to provide education and services through churches, schools, civic organizations, and community groups. Coni will be teaching during the upcoming DCON convention in Texarkana and will have multiple classes. There will be demonstrations of the popular "Kits4Kids" program that teaches children to learn to plan for emergencies.
Thom Callaway was born in Tacoma, WA, because of the Air Force, made a stop in Missouri, and ended up in Texas. He grew up in Denton and graduated from Denton High School in 1983. While attending North Texas State University, now UNT, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1985, serving until 1993. While working for the Denton County Sheriff’s Department, he met his wife, Paige, in 1988, and they were married in August of that year (he didn't meet her at work). He went on active duty during Operation Desert Storm in 1991. In 1993, he left the Sheriff’s Department and entered into the financial services industry, where, 32 years later, he and his brother now have the local Ameriprise Financial Services office. He and Paige moved to Paris in 2009. They have two grown children and one grandchild. Both Paige and Thom are active members of Calvary United Methodist Church in Paris. Shortly after moving to Paris, he joined the Kiwanis Club of Paris, TX. He had been a member of the Denton Breakfast Kiwanis Club, joining in 1994 and serving as president in 1996-97. After joining the Paris club, he served on the Board of Directors for the club until becoming president in 2013-14. He continues to actively serve the club and has been honored as a Distinguished Club President, a George F. Hixson Fellow, a Walter Zeller Fellow, a C.T. Bush Award recipient, and a Life Member of Kiwanis International and the Texas-Oklahoma District of Kiwanis and the PLGA. Thom serves as the Kiwanis advisor to four Paris area Key Clubs and Builders Clubs and is the current membership chair for the Paris Club. He has also served as LTG of Division 32 twice (distinguished once) and trustee of Region 5. Thom is looking to advance his Kiwanis journey by running for 2027-2028 Governor-Elect and would appreciate your support.
With many DCON-related deadlines approaching, we have created a to-do list for member convenience. This list includes submission deadlines, such as the deadline for the Layperson of the Year submissions and administrative duty deadlines such as updating club officer information. Click on the image above to view, interact with, and download the To-Do list. The list also features links for several items for further inspection.
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure through the heart of downtown Texarkana designed especially for the Kiwanis Spouse’s Tour! Your day begins with a visit to the one-of-a-kind Ace of Clubs House, where unique architecture and fascinating stories set the tone for a truly memorable experience. From there, indulge in a delightful lunch at Cafe Lucille, where great food and warm hospitality come together perfectly. Continue your journey with a stop at the Museum of Regional History, where the rich heritage of our region comes to life. Then sit back and relax on a scenic drive past some of Texarkana’s most beloved landmarks, soaking in the charm and character of our twin cities. And of course, no visit is complete without a photo opportunity at the iconic State Line Post Office and Federal Building, where you can stand in two states at once! This thoughtfully curated tour is the perfect blend of history, flavor, and fun; you won’t want to miss it!
OUR DISTRICT KIWANIS TEXAS-OKLAHOMA DISTRICT
Help support the Nicoma Park Kiwanis Club's Blood Drive. They are also trying to get 15 or more successful donations in order to donate to the American Legion Boys State.
The Kiwanis Club of Hideaway-Lindale is set to host their 39th Annual Golf Tournament and promises a thrilling day on the greens while making a difference in the lives of the children in our community. The event is at 101 Hideaway Lane Central, Hideaway, TX 75771, on May 18, 2026, and tee times start at 10:00am.
A Sizzling Success: The 2026 Kiwanis Chili Cook-Off! Submitted by Michael Laurel
The community gathered for the annual Kiwanis of Holly Lake Ranch, Big Sandy Chili Cook-Off and Fundraiser Saturday, February 21st, at Holly Hall. With 20 talented contestants firing up their pots, the room was filled with incredible aromas and friendly competition. There was something for every palate, from tongue-tingling spices to family-friendly mild blends; the variety was truly remarkable. One unique twist was a standout chicken chili that caught everyone's attention. In keeping with tradition, Tina Beall served her comforting potato soup for those looking for a non-chili alternative. All entries underwent a blind judging process. After much deliberation, prizes were awarded to the 1st and 2nd place winners in the Beans and No Beans categories. Beyond the kitchen, the excitement continued with our 50/50 raffle where our winner took home $151 in prize money. A heartfelt thank you goes out to the chefs, volunteers, and every community member who attended. This support helps the Kiwanis Club of Holly Lake Ranch, Big Sandy, continue its mission of serving their local youth and community.
Creating massive impact one project at a time.
A Look at Clubs
Submitted by Alix Wallace
Kiwanis Club of Jones Aim, LiFT, Partnership
This cycle, the club dived deep into supporting new initiatives that create opportunities for the children in their schools to get involved - most recently, through their first-ever Jones Kiwanis Club Archery Meet (that hosted children in 4th grade through high school) and their Jones Kiwanis Club Powerlifting Meet. These events bring opportunities for club members to work closely in partnership with school administration, teachers, and staff on supporting their mission of providing a "third place" for children in the community. Archery is new to their community, and they have received an overwhelming amount of support from the club and the schools. Students sing praise about archery, as it is a sport that promotes focus, camaraderie, and support outside of the traditional basketball/baseball/softball/football world. Archery opens up opportunities for existing athletes, but also for those looking to find their niche. There have been success stories ranging from children who play every sport every season to those with disabilities that use archery as a creative outlet that allows them to focus on something new and exciting that they feel they can fully participate in. The club is proud to support these programs and are immensely thankful to their community for rallying around them.
The beginning of the DIAPER AND WIPE DRIVEs And recent successes
Kiwanis Club of Arlington Teacher of the Year Submitted by Evelyn Herrera
The Aktion Club of Texakana is celebrating an exciting milestone with the installation of ten new members who are ready to roll up their sleeves and serve the community. Aktion Club, a service organization sponsored by Kiwanis that is made up of adults with disabilities, focuses on leadership, friendship, and community service. With the addition of these then-new members, the club continues to grow its mission of giving back and making a positive difference across Texarkana. During the installation ceremony, the new members were welcomed with encouragement and enthusiasm from current members and supporters. Each new member pledged their commitment to service and to upholding the values of the Aktion Club. Club leaders shared that they are proud to see the organization expanding and are excited about the energy and ideas the new members bring. The Aktion Club of Texarkana has been actively involved in many local service projects, including volunteering with community organizations, assisting with holiday donation drives, and supporting events that benefit local families in need.
During the 2016 Texas-Oklahoma District Convention, a fellow Kiwanian shared his “Kiwanis Moment," a time when he felt he truly made a difference in the lives of children in his community. His discussion about supporting an organization that cared for foster children made me think about who was supporting the children in our community. As I was new to the area, I did a quick Google search and discovered that a local nonprofit, St. Jude’s Ranch for Children (now SJRC Belong), had an ongoing need for diapers and was seeking someone to organize a diaper drive. I belonged to the Kiwanis Club of New Braunfels at the time and brought the idea to my club, which readily welcomed the idea. By the end of February (the month of love) 2017, we collected over 500 packages of diapers and more than 300 packages of wipes. This motivated my club and I, and the diaper drive became an annual event. In February 2021, the Kiwanis Club of Texas Hill Country was chartered. We continued a joint annual drive with the New Braunfels club through 2023. In 2024, the two clubs decided to hold separate drives. That same year, we added the SHARE Center, the Comal Crisis Center, and 1 Hope for Children to the nonprofits we supported with the collected diapers and wipes. Thanks to generous community support this year, we collected 9737 diapers and 13,027 wipes at 13 collection sites. Every diaper and wipe collected was gratefully received by the four supported organizations, all of which serve children in need within our community. Since 2019, approximately 90,000 diapers and 14,000 wipes have been collected and distributed.
Submitted by Jan Clark
Aktion club of Texarkana Welcoming Ten New Members Submitted by Tanya Dunlap
The Kiwanis Club of Arlington held their annual Woodrow Counts Teacher-of-the-Year Luncheon on April 1st, 2026. The top three award recipients included Rebecca Clesse from Arlington Collegiate TCC-SE, Heaven Tello from Barnett Junior High, and Pamela Lewis from Morton Elementary. 9 other educators also received special recognition at KCA's TOY luncheon. All of these teachers have shown such determination and skill. The club is thankful for their roles in the Arlington education system and admires their dedication and effectiveness in guiding the next generation. This year's TOY program marks the 65th year the club has had the honor of recognizing the various talented AISD educators. The club looks forward to continuing this tradition for many more to come.
Pancake Days – Paris, Texas Style Submitted by Julie Tidwell and Denise Kornegay
Imagine filling a building for five days with a total of 10,896 hungry people ready for all-you-can-eat pancakes and sausage. That’s how the Kiwanis Club of Paris does it. Starting in 1953, Pancake Days have provided pancakes, sausage, and beverages to our community for 71 years. The only years Pancake Days were not held were 2020 and 2021 due to Covid-19. Setup begins the week before in the Community Exhibit Center at the Red River Fairgrounds. The building is filled with tables and chairs, and five pancake griddles are put in place, including a unique round griddle. It is 4.5 feet in diameter and rotates to cook up to 60 pancakes at once. The Sausage Shack is ready with another flat-top grill that will work non-stop from the early hours of the morning until the last person has been fed. Kiwanians work to roll plasticware and napkins for our to-go boxes and for our elementary students. Once everything is ready, we have Pancake Cooking School to train new cooks as well as to test the secret recipe before we start flipping thousands of pancakes. What does it take to cook pancakes and sausage for almost 11,000 people? Here’s our shopping list: 2,700 pounds of pancake mix 2,940 pounds of sausage 16,704 ounces of syrup 365 gallons of milk 400 gallons of juice 7 cases of coffee 53 cases of 2L sodas 65 gallons of tea 12,000 forks 12,000 knives 24,000 napkins 15,000 cups 4.000 packets of syrup 15,300 pads of butter The doors opened at 6:00am on Friday, February 27, with more than 20 people already in line, and by 8:00pm, Kiwanians had served over 3,000 people. The next day was much the same, serving over 3,500 people. The final portion of Paris Pancake Days are three Kidz Dayz. Twelve area elementary schools solicit sponsorships to send all classes to eat pancakes during three half days. Buses load students and teachers and drop them off ready to eat. Teachers are armed with pizza cutters and wet wipes to cut pancakes and wipe sticky hands and faces. This year we served 4,350 happy Pre-K to 5th grade students. Kiwanians sell ads to local businesses, which are digitized and shown on large monitors throughout the building. These ads, class sponsorships, and donations help keep our ticket prices low so that everyone can enjoy pancakes with us. It’s not unusual to see the same faces twice during the weekend. Ninety-five percent of our proceeds go right back into our community to the agencies and nonprofit organizations that we support. It also helps fund our projects Fly Your Flag, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library for two counties, Texas Ramp Project, and the Camp Kiwanis campground at Pat Mayse Lake. We also sponsor seven Service Leadership Programs in area schools and provide scholarships to senior Key Club members. How many volunteers does it take to make this happen? Over 70 Kiwanians, along with students from Key Clubs, Builders Clubs, and other school organizations, all lend a hand to keep things moving. It takes the whole Kiwanis village to be sure. We’re already evaluating and looking at ways to improve Pancake Days 2027. Come on and enjoy some pancakes with us next year!
Submitted by Lyndel Cook
Catching Up with the Kiwanis Club of Greater abilene
The Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene always knows how to drum up some fun and charitable giving! If you are looking for ideas on how to keep your club active in your community, look no further. Check out what this amazing club has been up to recently. $2,500 CHECK PRESENTED TO FOOD BANK OF WEST CENTRAL TEXAS Greater Abilene Kiwanian Gail Jay presented Ronnie Kidd (far left), retiring executive director from the Food Bank, with our Community Caring Award for his service to the Food Bank. Past President Gail Jay then asked Ronnie Kidd, Summer Menchaca, and Patrick Dembach from the Food Bank of West Central Texas to come forward, and she presented them with a “large check” for $2,500. The Food Bank provides food for a diverse cross-section of households across West Central Texas. Families, seniors, children, and working adults striving to make ends meet are helped by the services and food provided by the Food Bank. Fifty percent of the people served are children, and 43% are seniors. Also, 67% are living below the poverty line. A special program "Food for Kids" provides weekend meals for children so they return to school nourished, focused, and ready to learn. STAFFORD ELEMENTARY K-KIDS MAKE VALENTINES FOR VETERANS & STUFF 1,200 EASTER EGGS The Stafford Elementary K-Kids made Valentines for Veterans on Thursday, February 12th, from 3:30 to 4:30 at Stafford Elementary. Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene Kiwanians Carl Brown, Keith Clifton, Susan Reid, and Lt. Governor Lyndel Cook met with the K-Kids at Stafford Elementary. The kids made Valentine's Day cards for veterans and had a pizza party. Thanks to Kiwanian Shelley Drennan for delivering the Valentine cards and treats to the veterans!! The kids will be helping some of the teachers with different projects for the rest of this month. Then they will be preparing Easter eggs for the kindergarten Easter egg hunt on April 2nd. Greater Abilene Members are asked to bring non-chocolate candy and large plastic eggs for the kids to stuff for the hunt. Starting March 5th, we will be having interclubs over the next several weeks with the kids to help stuff 1,200 eggs. KIWANIAN FLOYD MILLER RECEIVES LEGION OF HONOR AWARD FOR 30 YEARS SERVICE President Cameo presented Floyd Miller with his Greater Abilene Legion of Honor award. Cameo thanked him for 30 years of service to Kiwanis and children. Floyd has been a recipient of the Layperson of the Year award, has participated on several committees, worked at countless fundraisers, reports on civic events in the Abilene area, and is the owner and editor of the West Texas Tribune. Congratulations, Floyd! The Kiwanis International Legion of Honor award is presented to each Kiwanian starting with 25 years of service to Kiwanis International. Then members are presented the award in five-year increments thereafter. $2,500 CHECK PRESENTED TO MEALS ON WHEELS PLUS Kiwanians Gail Jay and Kevin McSherry presented a $2,500 check to JoAnne Glantz from Meals on Wheels Plus. Kevin also asked for a show of hands for the members who have delivered Meals on Wheels currently or in the past. Meals on Wheels Plus has been providing home-delivered meals since 1975. A noon meal is delivered to the homes of seniors or adults with disabilities who are unable to provide balanced meals for themselves. They can also arrange emergency medical care when needed. "Pet Food on Wheels Plus" provides pet food, as well as routine veterinary visits for a limited number of pets. They also provide electric fans, space heaters, and microwaves as needed.
Formally announced during the 2025 Kiwanis International Convention, the Kiwanis Voices pilot program is an exciting opportunity to create Kiwanis clubs specifically for people ages 18-26. In our district we have a goal of starting two new Kiwanis Voices clubs in communities where graduating Key Club members are largely staying local, where there’s an opportunity to build a bridge for graduating CKI members to join a Kiwanis Voices club with their peer group before transitioning to a more traditional Kiwanis Club, or where there’s not an option for Key Club alumni and other young adults to establish a CKI club at a college or university. The Kiwanis Club of Harrah, OK, is already starting work to sponsor a club at the Eastern Oklahoma Technology Center! To help you and/or your club organize a Kiwanis Voices club, we’re providing the following five-step guide: Find out if your Kiwanis club or one nearby will sponsor a Kiwanis Voices club. During discussion with the Kiwanis club, make sure its leaders know that the club must remit a US$100 sponsorship fee, understand the obligations of sponsorship for a new Kiwanis club, and appoint one member as the club coach. Find at least 15 new members between the ages of 18 and 26. Each person must complete a membership application and submit the required annual dues. (Note: A sustainable Kiwanis Voices club has members of each age represented and exceeds the minimum number of members to open a club. There is no maximum number of members.) Host an organizational meeting. This is the official start of the Kiwanis Voices club. The sponsoring club will assist with the election of charter officers and completion of bylaws, and it will allow the new members to discuss and determine their mission, their first service project, and the timing of the next meeting. Complete and submit the official charter paperwork. Send the new club information sheet, official roster, completed member applications, and US$40 for each member to Rene Booker, club processing representative, Kiwanis International, 3636 Woodview Trace, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46268. You may also email newclubs@kiwanis.org. (Note: Sponsoring clubs may choose to open Kiwanis Voices with the Club Opening Tool.) The sponsoring club should assist in acquiring an Employee Identification Number (EIN). Information on applying for an EIN is available here. For Kiwanis Voices clubs in the U.S., sponsoring clubs should also submit Form 8976 (see more information here) or any other government documentation and requirements. Next Steps Upon receipt and processing of the Kiwanis Voices paperwork, the sponsoring club coach and Kiwanis Voices officers will receive an email with the next steps. The new Kiwanis Voices club will also receive support with 30-, 60-, and 90-day tasks to complete prior to its official charter celebration. Remember: Kiwanis Voices clubs may continue to add charter members up to the charter celebration — approximately 90 days after the organizational meeting. Member applications received in that time frame should be sent to Rene Booker (kiwanisvoices@kiwanis.org). After the charter ceremony, the Kiwanis Voices secretary will be able to add new members through Kiwanis Engage, the member management portal for all Kiwanis members and affiliates. As the Kiwanis Voices program continues, look for more information and resources — such as upcoming social media assets to market the club in schools and throughout the community.
February +3 None February +10% Chickasha 14% March +3 Athens 5 Robson Ranch 4 Paris 3 March +10% Newcastle 33% Coppell 13% YTD Net Growth +5 Robson Ranch 19 Paris 9 Allen 9 Greater Abilene 6 Jones 6 Athens 5 Hideaway-Lindale 5 Gilmer 5 YTD Percentage Net Growth +22% Robson Ranch 54% Broken Bow 40% Chickasha 33% Coppell 29% Heart of Oklahoma-Purcell 29% Venus 27% Gilmer 23% Texas Hill Country 22%
Hi all! Personal reflection, being simply put, is thank you to KI and T-O District for putting this on and allowing me, personally, the opportunity. It was enlightening talking shop with Kiwanians from all over the world and bouncing ideas back and forth and sharing tools for each other's toolboxes. They took amazing care of us; the food and accommodations were absolutely amazing. And I feel this was some of the most applicable, up-to-date training I have received in my brief Kiwanis tenure. I feel it is an absolute forward investment that will pay dividends in the growth of our organization. What I learned... Wow… Analytics on clubs. We did an exercise on night 1 when we hit the ground running... Analyzing a club with limited information, just date opened and membership metric, is much like what I have been staring at on the LRP committee. Numbers will show you one story. Then we would add in more factors and add another layer and another... Club demographic, then add into community survey/need/other organizations in the area. Communication from officers to the LTG level. Overall having your finger on the pulse of your division is so much more than just reading the numbers on a spreadsheet. The need for connection and communication is a must. Also learned club issues aren't an isolated thing; it seems everyone has "that" member. But with proper communication and direction with the overall win of the community at stake, anything can be achieved. All in all I had an amazing time. I was skeptical going into it from my previous training endeavors with our organization, but it seems KI as a whole are definitely stepping in the direction of modernization and actionable service! Thank you very much again for this unforgettable opportunity. In service, Blake
A word from TX-OK attendees...
2026 Lieutenant Governor Membership Summit
Hi! It was a great summit! Thank you so much for allowing me to go. We learned so much, and I truly gained a different perspective and way of looking at membership. My favorite part was an exercise in assessing hypothetical clubs to determine where to place the most time and effort regarding recruiting new members. The process of that exercise changed my perspective and helped me better assess membership potential in different situations. I also thoroughly enjoyed discussions about ways to think outside of the box when assisting struggling clubs and ways to better help them strengthen their club. The summit was a completely different membership program than I’ve experienced with KI in the past, with new info, statistics, and perspectives. It was also great to meet and spend time with KI leadership, including past and future presidents. I'm looking forward to sharing and implementing the knowledge that I gained. Thank you again. Joanne Wisdom
This year, Kiwanis International hosted its first Lieutenant Governor Summit. This summit was held back in March at Indianapolis. The summit weekend was packed with members from over 28 Kiwanis districts. It was a fantastic opportunity for growth for LTGs as they attended workshops and collaborated with leaders from other districts.
The Possibility Project is Kiwanians, through philanthropy, helping Kiwanians be successful and helping children thrive. Background Kiwanis Children’s Fund (KCF) plays an important role in getting money out to clubs and organizations to support the children of the world. For the last 30 years we have partnered with UNICEF for two campaigns. The first was the Iodine Deficiency Campaign (IDD), and the other most recently was the Eliminate Project—eliminating maternal and neonatal tetanus. Over those two campaigns, we were able to raise and leverage over $261 million to successfully complete those two campaigns. In 2020 the Eliminate campaign successfully concluded, eliminating maternal and neonatal tetanus in 35 countries around the world, saving millions of mothers and their babies. This led our KCF Trustees to ask clubs and members, "What would you like to see KCF do next for our next worldwide campaign?" Unanimously members and clubs said, “We need more help to impact more kids in our communities.” This led to the beginning of The Possibility Project, our first-ever campaign focused on supporting our Kiwanis club-led service projects. Over the last 5 years, our grant requests have grown 10 times. Thus, for every $2 requested, $1 was able to be funded. We want to be able to fund every qualified grant request, which is why we need your help to support our Kiwanis family – our brothers and sisters who are trying to reach every child in their community. That is why we have created The Possibility Project – together we will impact 10 million children by raising 25 million dollars over the next 5 years. And we can’t do it without each and every one of us coming together to help. Here is a brief video about The Possibility Project: https://vimeo.com/962286484 Becoming an Impact Club This campaign’s Impact Club giving level can be reached by giving at least $100 per member per year for 5 years. Basically, broken down even further, it is just $8.34 per member per month or $1.92 per week. If members were to consider giving $8 or even $10 a month on a recurring basis, the goal would be reached! You can also do other local fundraising events to collect the money. Maybe your club would like to honor a member of the club or community member with a honoring a club member or outgoing president with a Blechman or Hixson Fellowship. Impact Club gifts can be made from the treasury of the club, fundraisers the club puts on, peer-to-peer fundraising for KCF (Facebook fundraisers), or individual club membership gifts to KCF. Texas-Oklahoma District Benefits It is gifts like these that can make a transformational impact on kids all around the world and right here in our district. Already since 2022 over $64,000 has been given back to the district through club grants, district grants, and scholarships, impacting 21,862 children in our district. Thank you for considering this extraordinary request and allowing me to speak to you today. My hope is that as you have watched the video and read the information provided, you see how important your club's donation is to helping even more children around our district and the world. Please consider this opportunity to join me and so many other Kiwanians and Kiwanis clubs in this tremendous new campaign effort to reach 10 million kids through Kiwanis – while uplifting our Kiwanis family.
Submitted by Paul Heinz
The Possibility Project
Youth Protection Update
Hello fellow Kiwanians. I wanted to introduce myself as the new Texas-Oklahoma K-Kids District administrator. I am looking forward to working with you and hope many of you want to start a K-Kids club. I am Region 1 Trustee Randy McDaniel from the Allen Club. We currently have just under 30 K-Kids clubs district-wide, and this is a great way to introduce Kiwanis to your school district. Please review the information about K-Kids at www.kiwaniskids.org and let me know how I can be of service. You can reach me at: Ranmcd1958@gmail.com 972/215-9429 cell Randy McDaniel
Club Building Update
Hello Mighty T-O! BIG NEWS FOR YOUTH PROTECTION: We now have our own Texas-Oklahoma Kiwanis email address. The new email address is Youth-Protection@txokkiwanis.org We are excited that hopefully now when emails about youth protection go out, instead of getting filtered to spam, they will be recognized as a legitimate email from the district. You can still continue to use my cell, 918-849-0464, as well. We are now at the halfway point of the Kiwanis year, and it is a great time to see if your club has completed the required annual Youth Protection Training or if any members need to complete or renew a background check. Kiwanis International requires that each club present the required youth protection training at a general club meeting each Kiwanis year, October 1-September 30. Kiwanis has published the training in several formats this year: a 15-minute video on the web and a PowerPoint presentation that someone in the club can moderate, or I can do the training for your club either via Zoom or in person. Background checks are required for anyone that is listed as a Kiwanis advisor for a K-Kids club, Builder's Club, Key Club, Circle K club, or Aktion club. Kiwanis also requires the faculty (school or sponsoring group employee working with any of the above clubs) and any chaperones to complete a Kiwanis background check. A chaperone is any Kiwanis member, faculty member, parent, or legal guardian, 21 years of age or older, who has been approved by the school or agency to accompany youth members at a specific event that is off school premises. If you want to access the training materials for youth protection, they can be found on the District Google Drive and within the "Youth Protection" folder. If you need anything related to youth protection, please reach out to me, and I will be happy to help. In Service, Brian Walker, Youth Protection Manager- Texas-Oklahoma District of Kiwanis International
New K-Kid District Administrator
The district has been hard at work building up new clubs. We have club builds in progress in Sugar Land, TX, Katy, TX, and Yukon, OK.
Hello all, The 6th and newest edition of the Texas-Oklahoma Coloring Book Series is now available for delivery! This new coloring book uses both English and Spanish to describe the service project picture that the child is coloring. In this way, parents can use the coloring book as a "reader." It is also a big marketing program for Kiwanis in that parents will have access to the booklet and see all the cool programs that Kiwanis Clubs plan around the district. I'm prepared to ship boxes of 100 coloring books, and the price will be 105.00 / box plus shipping. You can order ½ boxes of 50 for 52.50 / box plus shipping. I will use UPS Ground for a shipping service unless anyone lives close to the Dallas area and wants to pick up the boxes from me directly. That could save a lot of money if the club is ordering multiple boxes. I have 5000 coloring books in stock and am ready to ship now! We will have coloring books at the convention also. Best regards, Marshall Kregel District Service Committee Chair
New Club and SLP Charters
Contact Us
DIstrict coloring Books
Check out the newest clubs and SLP charters. A big thanks to all supporting members! If your club is interested in sponsoring or learning more about how they can lend a hand, contact the district leadership today. K-Kids Club of Langham Elementary with 75 members in Nederland, TX ; sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Orange, TX. Key Club of Cedar Ridge High School with 38 members in Round Rock, TX; sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Round Rock. On the horizon..... Aktion Club of the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired in Austin, TX, Sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Silicon Hills. Key Club of Veritas Academy in Austin, TX; Sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Silicon Hills. Key Club of Westville High School; Sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Stilwell, OK.
Update as of 4/1/2026
Fellow Texas-Oklahoma Kiwanians, It is time to "Train-the-Trainers" again!!! If you are interested in becoming a certified Texas-Oklahoma CLE (Club Leadership Education) Trainer: Fill out the linked Microsoft Word document and return it to Mark Crouch at mbcrouch8847@gmail.com, and CLE Instructor training (via Zoom) will be in two parts – Part One -Monday, May 4, 7 P.M.-8:30 P.M. Part Two - Tuesday, May 5, 7 P.M.-8:30 P.M. Links to the Zoom meetings will be sent out at a later date. *** The meetings will be recorded. If you cannot attend on the scheduled dates but are still interested in the training, send an email to mbcrouch8847@gmail.com with your contact info and Mark Crouch will make the videos available to you. ========================== Click HERE to download the CLE Instructor Application.
Month
Division
Club
Name
November
13
Kiwanis Club of Pittsburg
James Jordan
February
38
Kiwanis Club of Kerrville
James Patrick Walsh Jr.
30
Kiwanis Club of Capitol Hill High School
James Barnett
March
35
Kiwanis Club of Stamford
Kelly Michael Jones
5
Kiwanis Club of New Braunfels
Stacy Snell
Bruce Snell
40
Kiwanis Club of Choctaw
Mary Snyder
Kiwanis Club of Del City
Harry Currie
April
34
Kiwanis Club of Hideaway-Lindale
Barham Fulmer
Extend Your Manila Adventure "When you come to Manila, Philippines, for the 2026 Kiwanis International Convention, you’ll find even more than the information and inspiration of our big event. You’ll find a city filled with hospitality and history — the kind that invites you to stay a little longer. If you extend your stay by a day or two before or after the convention, you can immerse yourself in a day full of history, art and leisure — and turn your convention trip into a deeper adventure. " - by Lauren Young
Read More...
In Loving Memory
“Wherever a beautiful soul has been, there is a trail of beautiful memories.” — Unknown
KI Notes Submission Deadlines
Issue
Issue's Submission Date
January 20, 2025
March 20, 2025
June
May 20, 2025
August
July 20, 2025
These dates are subject to change. Please email if you need an extension.
KI Notes submissions can be emailed to txokkiwanis@gmail.com.
Contact TX-OK
Texas Oklahoma Kiwanis District Editor's Message Evelyn Herrera
Economic Instability Up 50 cents, up a dollar, up two dollars... have you felt it in your pocketbook yet? It is no secret that the prices of goods and services keep going up. Economic instability is a huge cause for complex tensions, increased vulnerabilities, and increased desperation in communities. While some of us have been able to stretch a dollar, others didn't have a whole dollar to stretch to begin with. Understanding the economic inequalities in your community is essential for your club to grasp, especially now, in order to continue to provide aid as money tightens. To put this in perspective, when I look around my little community, I have a firm understanding of the needs of the school in my neighborhood, the increased visitors to the local food pantry, and the increase of people on my local Facebook group looking for jobs. When assessing these three factors in depth, I have concluded that some children in school are extra vulnerable, supplies in the food pantry are running thin, and my fellow community members must be undergoing additional hardships. As a helper, this means I need to figure out the best ways to help compensate for the surge of need. It can be overwhelming to try and bridge these new gaps of need. This can be especially so if you find that you too are struggling. But, no matter how difficult it may seem, there is grand strength in collaboration. Sometimes, new issues need new approaches. Are you no longer able to stock up your club's food pantry to keep up with demand? Consider additional research into local grocery deals or do a scheduled food haul. Are the rising gas prices putting your Meals on Wheels deliveries at risk? Consider carpooling or utilizing the most energy-efficient volunteer vehicle. Are your club members having difficulty affording their usual services? Prioritize small local businesses that are flexible enough to work with your budget. Consider looking at your local Facebook groups or on the Nextdoor app to see if anyone is offering services. While our savings get smaller, our compassion and creativity must get bigger. Together we can brainstorm new solutions to the growing economic obstacles.
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