KI-NOTES
August 2026 (Issue NO. 48)
A Publication of the Texas-Oklahoma District of Kiwanis International
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DCON Recap is here! Check out all the fun.
Editorial
4 Governor's Message 6 DCON Recap 8 DCON Fundraising 10 DCON Awards & Recognitions 34 2027 DCON 36 26-27 District Leadership 38 Reminders 40 DCON Thanks 42 A Look at Clubs 56 New Club and SLP Charters 57 Celebrate Club Growth 58 Key Club Update 60 CKI Update 62 Foundation & District Updates 64 Icon Recap 66 Freddy's Fundraising 68 In Loving Memory 69 Editor's Message 70 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: Glenda Rast District Governor: John Cano Contributing Writers: John Cano, lyndel cook, Sam Curry , Richard Driskell, Sherry Dupre, Susan Hennum, Evelyn Herrera, Rhonda Hershey, Drexler John, Minori Kikuchi, Denise Kornegay, Michael Laurel, Shawn Loiacano, Dr. Darrel McDonald, Rhonda McGuire, Kelly Poland, Glenda Rast, Barbara Walker, Megan Whitworth, Crystal Yates
texas oklahoma district
Texas Oklahoma Kiwanis District Governor's Message John Cano
It has been my privilege and honor to serve as your district governor these past 10 months. By the time you’re reading this, we’ll have just a little over a month to finish our administrative year and prepare to hit the ground running on October 1. When I joined the Kiwanis family as a Key Club member 22 years ago and then continued through CKI, I could not have imagined that this is where it would lead me. Visiting the clubs, divisions, and regions across the district really helps you appreciate the variety of projects, fundraisers, and activities clubs do to fulfill their missions in their communities. Those visits were highlights of my year. Whether I was in the boxing ring in Corpus Christi, shooting clay pigeons in Edmond, flipping blueberry pancakes in Nacogdoches, being entertained by the incredibly talented dancers and singers on the San Antonio riverwalk, or just sitting in a club meeting to discuss what the next project was going to be, I was always reminded that everything we do is for the kids. The old truism stands - if you’ve seen one Kiwanis Club...you’ve seen one Kiwanis Club. Our diversity is our strength in that it allows each club to identify the needs in their unique communities and to operate in a way that best suits the members. I hope more of our members will make interclubbing a priority so you can expand your vision of what Kiwanis is and can be. I remain grateful to immediate past governor, Bobby, for our dozens of hours of meetings during his term to lay the groundwork for this year. He truly provided the foundation for the successes that we’ve had. At last year’s convention I laid out seven key priorities to focus the district on our primary purpose - building and strengthening clubs, education, and delivery of our SLPs and the Possibility Project - and I’m proud of the progress we’ve made. I’ve kept the district updated on those priorities in previous issues, and you’ll see the latest in this Ki-Notes. Some months ago someone asked me how we could maintain the momentum for all of the priorities I laid out. My thought is… How could we not? The district must remain focused on our primary purpose as well as the specific initiatives that are important to the members of our district. My ongoing vision is this: Clubs will remain supported and connected to the district, our SLPs will continue to grow, and the education and collaboration opportunities we provide at district convention and more locally at the division and regional events continue. The Service Committee will continue to expand its support to clubs with more disaster relief and preparedness work and new editions of the coloring books to share our Kiwanis story. One day, a building for the district can be financed to house our disaster relief operations and provide training and meeting space for our boards Success for Key Leader and expansion into every region of the district hosting an event so we can develop the leadership skills of our high school students Continuous growth of new clubs and strengthening of existing clubs through regional teams of coaches, openers, recruiters, and Kiwanis Advocates The pieces are all there - we just need the dedicated volunteers to continue to show up and ensure that our clubs remain strong, supported, and making an impact in their communities. I am committed to supporting Governor-Designate Marty in his agenda and look forward to my next year of service on the district board as the immediate past governor. Thank you all again for the memories, for your commitment to service, your support of our service leadership programs, the Foundation and the District, and for the incredible work you do in your clubs. It’s been my honor to serve you.
TESTIMONIAL "My favorite part was being able to meet and mingle with new people. Hearing their stories, asking how they joined the club and how long they've been part, what is life like in their towns, etc... I honesty wish it was DCON all over again. I really made sure to take my time to savor each day, but it really still didnt feel like it was enough. I really miss the people I met who were from out of town and state, and I hope to see them again." -Drexler John
Announcement The TX-OK Kiwanis District Convention was a huge success! One of the highlights of this year was seeing Kiwanians come together to support this year's charities and goals. After calculating out expenses, the district raised around $6000 for this year's three chosen charities. Alongside monetary donations, volunteers also collected canned goods and books. Along with these donations, $1175 was raised for the Governor’s Gift for the CKI Legacy Fund at District Convention. A great thanks to all of our donors and volunteers!
Kiwanis Club of Baytown Kiwanis Club of Mineola Kiwanis Club of Texarkana Kiwanis Club of Allen Kiwanis Club of Denton, Breakfast Kiwanis Club of Weatherford, TX Kiwanis Club of Quitman/Lake Fork Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene Kiwanis Club of Abilene Kiwanis Club of Fort Worth
Bulliten/Newsletter Contest Submissions Due Website/Facebook Contest Submissions Due
JUNE 30
With Honors
Mighty Texas-Oklahoma Distinguished Clubs for 2024-25
Abilene Allen Austin-Northeast Baytown Fort Worth Greater Abilene Holly Lake Ranch, Big Sandy Jacksonville Mineola Quitman/Lake Fork Rockwall County San Angelo Texarkana University, Wichita Falls Weatherford, TX
Faye Dodson – Kiwanis Club of Abilene Joe Holland – Kiwanis Club of Denton Breakfast Joe McIntyre – Kiwanis Club of Denton Breakfast Ken Reedy – Kiwanis Club of Denton Breakfast Nancy Baker – Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene Shelley Drennan – Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene Nancy Kamman – Kiwanis Club of Denton Cole Martin – Kiwanis Club of Denton Tanya Blixt – Kiwanis Club of Denton Lauren Layne – Kiwanis Club of Texarkana John Callison – Kiwanis Club of Weatherford Kate Sitzenstatter – Kiwanis Club of Rockwall County
"President Cameo announced that Kevin McSherry has been selected as the Texas-Oklahoma District's Layperson of the Year for 2025-2026. Congratulations, Kevin! You make us so proud to be a Kiwanian! Kevin even made it on Google, which mentioned his being named our Layperson of the Year. So, Kevin was selected as Greater Abilene Layperson of the Year, Division 35 Layperson of the Year, and now Texas-Oklahoma Layperson of the Year. Each Kiwanis Club in Texas and Oklahoma may select their Layperson of the Year. Then one Layperson from all the clubs in the division is selected as the Division Layperson. Then all the Division Laypersons' names are sent to the Texas-Oklahoma District to be selected as the T-O District Layperson of the Year. Whew! What an honor to have a great Kiwanian and friend in our club!" - Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene
For achieving 70-99 points in the distinguished club criteria Kiwanis Club of Paris Kiwanis Club of Jones Kiwanis Club of Sapulpa Kiwanis Club of Stilwell Kiwanis Club of Tulsa Kiwanis Club of Robson Ranch Kiwanis Club of Highland Lakes (The) Kiwanis Club of Round Rock Kiwanis Club of Hideaway-Lindale Kiwanis Club of Brownwood Kiwanis Club of Denton, Breakfast, Denton Kiwanis Club of San Marcos
Trustee Randy McDaniel for Region 1 Committee Chair/Manager/Coordinator Marshall Kregel - Service Committee Chair
03 Daniel Pruett 18 Keith Rice 31 Denise Deason-Toyne 32 Jerry Patton 33 Mary Kay Phelan 35 Lyndel Cook 39 Gregory Roe 40 Jennifer Iwuchukwu
Ruby K Recognitions
Club Growth Award for 2024-25 Kiwanis Clubs of…
View Recognitions
We honor Kiwanians who invite five or more new members during their Kiwanis career with a Ruby K Award, free of charge. Ruby K pins recognize members for inviting new members — from five to 100 people. (Further Ruby K awards are given for multiples of 25 over 100.) The award is cumulative, so previous recipients are eligible for a new Ruby K when they invite additional members.
Division Growth Award for 2024-25
Fort Worth Weatherford, TX Oak Cliff, Dallas Lakewood, Dallas Mc Kinney Allen Rockwall County Houston Cypress Texas Sinton Greater Randolph Area Northeast San Antonio San Antonio Army Residence Community Golden K Denton Denton, Breakfast, Denton Muenster Navasota Orange Golden K San Angelo Texarkana Idabel Carthage Nacogdoches Woodward Weatherford, OK Altus University, Wichita Falls Graham Bethany Davis Shawnee Greater Ada Round Rock Northwest Austin Tulsa Palestine Corsicana Baytown South Oklahoma City Del City Southwest Oklahoma City Moore Tahlequah Paris Pampa Amarillo-Hi-Plains Gilmer Mineola Quitman/Lake Fork Abilene Greater Abilene Lampasas Midwest City Jones Luling
White (Clubs With 35 Members Or Less) Website/Social Media 1st - Kiwanis Club of Woodlands/South Montgomery County Website/Social Media 2nd - Kiwanis Club of Holly Lake Ranch/Big Sandy Blue (Clubs With 36 To 64 Members) Website/Social Media 1st - Kiwanis Club of Arlington Website/Social Media 2nd - Kiwanis Club of Denton Gold (Clubs With 65 Or More Members) Website/Social Media 1st - Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene Website/Social Media 2nd - Kiwanis Club of Abilene
White (Clubs With 35 Members Or Less) Newsletter 1st - Kiwanis Club of Holly Lake Ranch/Big Sandy Newsletter 2nd - Kiwanis Club of Denton, Breakfast Blue (Clubs With 36 To 64 Members) Newsletter 1st - Kiwanis Club of Fort Worth and Kiwanis Club of Weatherford, TX Newsletter 2nd - Kiwanis Club of Tulsa Gold (Clubs With 65 Or More Members) Newsletter 1st - Kiwanis Club of Abilene Newsletter 2nd - Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene Division Newsletter 1st - Division 5, Editor Glenda Rast Newsletter 2nd - Division 1, Editor Kathy Culbertson
Group 1 (less than 28 members) 1st - Kiwanis Club of Guthrie, OK - Annual Christmas Auction 2nd (tie) - Kiwanis Club of Holly Lake Ranch/Big Sandy - American Flag Program; Kiwanis Club of Austin-Northeast (Silicon Hills) - Butterfly Festival Group 2 (more than 28 members) 1st - Kiwanis Club of Abilene - Pancake Day 2nd - Kiwanis Club of Duncan, Chisholm Trail - Kiddieland Express Holiday Experience Honorable Mentions: Kiwanis Club of Hideaway-Lindale - Country Fest Auction & Raffle; Kiwanis Club of Jones - Town Ballfield
STUDENT
HIGH SCHOOL
DIV.
Adrianne Stine
Aledo H.S. - Weatherford, TX
1
Isabella Adame
MacArthur H.S.- N.E. San Antonio
5
Obarita Aarushi
Talkington School for Young Women Leaders - Lubbock
7
Kylie Butler
Idabel H.S. - Idabel
13
Kollins Allen
Sayre H.S. - Sayre
17
Ruby Miller
Duncan H.S. – Chisholm Trail
20
Eduardo Valdes-Munoz
Harker Heights H.S. – Harker Heights
23
Audryn Lee
Vandegrift H.S. – Austin-Northeast (Silicon Hills)
24
Kayla Coleman
Sapulpa H.S. - Sapulpa
25
Arianna Bloice
Stuart Career Tech H.S. - Baytown
28
Madison Moreno
Wayne H.S. - Purcell
30
Talon Thurber
Stillwell H.S. - Stillwell
31
Emmalee Cannon
Prairiland H.S. - Paris
32
Caroline Shoemaker
Stamford H.S. - Stamford
35
Aishat Na-Allah
Edmond Santa Fe H.S. - Centennial
40
Group 1 (less than 28 members) 1st - Kiwanis Club of Guthrie, OK - Annual Christmas Auction 2nd (tie) - Kiwanis Club of Holly Lake Ranch/Big Sandy - American Flag Program; Kiwanis Club of Austin-Notheast (Silicon Hills) - Butterfly Festival Group 2 (more than 28 members) 1st - Kiwanis Club of Abilene - Pancake Day 2nd - Kiwanis Club of Duncan, Chisholm Trail - Kiddieland Express Holiday Experience Honorable Mentions: Kiwanis Club of Hideaway-Linday - Country Fest Auction & Raffle; Kiwanis Club of Jones - Town Ballfield
Recognized at DCON 2026: Sean And Tricia Raich John Cano Dr. Darrell And Judith Mcdonald Theo And Kathy Van Eeten Mary Kay & Tom Phelan
"Leave a Legacy That Lasts a Lifetime A life dedicated to helping others deserves to be remembered. Through the Legacy Society, you can create a lasting tribute to your service and ensure that future Kiwanians continue the Foundation’s mission of supporting the youth of the Texas-Oklahoma District." - T-O Foundation
Recognized at DCON 2026: Sue Catron Kiwanis Club Of Tahlequah Hannah Wallace Kiwanis Club Of Weatherford, TX Cheryl Smyth Kiwanis Club Of Hideaway-Lindale Glenda Rast Kiwanis Club of Texas Hill Country
"The Women in Kiwanis (WIK) Assistance Fund was started by Governor Susan Hennum in 2011-2012 to commemorate 25 years of Women in Kiwanis. The fund is held within the Texas-Oklahoma Kiwanis Foundation to provide partial and matching awards to students in Key Club and CKI to attend leadership development and training conferences." - TX-OK Kiwanis District
Recognized at DCON 2026: Founders Circle Konrad Brandemuhl Dr. Wil Blechman Fellowship Tom Brehm
The Kiwanis Children's Fund awards special recognitions to their donors and supporters. Depending on your gift amount you can earn different recognitions. The Founder's Circle and the Dr. Wil Blechman Fellowship are just two of the many recognitions offered by Kiwanis.
The primary purposes of the PLGA are to: assist in the promotion of the Objects of Kiwanis International and therein provide leadership for the growth of Kiwanis; Aid and assist current Lt. Governors as needed in the divisions; Willingly serve as advisor and consultant to all Kiwanians and clubs; Assist and support the Service Leadership Programs; and, Encourage a strong communication between the PLGA and district membership.
Recognized at DCON 2026: PLGA Carlene Campbell Most Valuable LTG Lyndel Cook PLGA Extra Mile Award Michael Laurel Kiwanis Club of Holly Lake Ranch/Big Sandy
The Kiwanis Children's Fund awards special recognitions to their donors and supporters. Dending on your gift amount you can earn different recognitions. The Founder's Circle and the Dr. Wil Blechman Fellowship are just two of the many recognitions offered by Kiwanis.
Registration Momentum is Already Building for the 2027 Texas-Oklahoma District Convention!
Submitted by Shawnee DCON Chair Richard Driskell
The excitement has already begun for the 2027 Texas-Oklahoma District Convention, and the response from this year's convention was nothing short of incredible! During the 2026 District Convention, 107 Kiwanians pre-registered to join us in Shawnee, Oklahoma, on July 22nd through the 25th, for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of service, fellowship, and Kiwanis tradition. With our Olympic theme, "Looking Back. Running Forward," the 2027 convention will honor the rich history of our district while looking ahead to the future of Kiwanis. Attendees will also help celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Shawnee Kiwanis Club, making this convention a milestone event you won't want to miss. Convention guests will enjoy an outstanding group rate at the Grand Casino Hotel (only $99/night plus tax/fees), making it easy to stay close to all the activities while enjoying one of the area's premier destinations. Attendees will also have the opportunity to experience some of Shawnee's unique attractions through optional tours of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation Cultural Heritage Center, the Citizen Potawatomi Nation Eagle Aviary, and the beautiful St. Gregory's Abbey and Monastic Community, each offering a glimpse into the history, culture, and traditions that make our host city so special. The early enthusiasm shown through our record-setting pre-registration is a testament to the excitement surrounding Shawnee and the incredible convention experience our planning team is creating. If you haven't registered yet, watch for additional information in the coming months and make plans now to join Kiwanians from across Texas and Oklahoma for an inspiring weekend of leadership, learning, service, and fun. Thank you to the 107 members who have already committed to being part of history—we can't wait to welcome you to Shawnee in 2027!
Click to View District Map!
Governor Marty Mullins
New! Trustee Region 3 - Mendell Morgan (pending appointment) Trustee Region 8 - Ralph Keen (pending appointment) Trustee Region 9 - Gene Ray
johnmcano@gmail.com
Culbertson
District Convention (Shawnee)
Phifer
Check out new resolutions from DCON. Click here!
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Get to know the new 26-27 leadership team.
Write down leadership training schedules. See district calenar by clicking here.
Tag the district on your DCON photos!
Byron Williams: Former NFL Wide Receiver and founder of Best Wishes Foundation Bisan Abdalla: 2026-27 District Governor of Texas-Oklahoma District of Key Club International Tinh-An Ha: 2026-27 District Governor of Texas-Oklahoma District of CKI Brad Boyd: Kiwanis International Area Director Cathy Szymanski: Kiwanis International Vice President and 2026-27 Board Counselor to Texas-Oklahoma Michael Malik: Director of Development for the Kiwanis Children’s Fund
Division 1: Ronald McDonald House Heart Program Fort Worth Texas Submitted by DIv 1 Lt. Governor, Shawn Loiacano
Kiwanis Clubs of Division 1: Cleburne, Fort Worth, Lake Granbury, Saginaw, and Weatherford, TX. Under the guidance of Chef Ian, in their kitchen, volunteers made a difference by providing, preparing, and serving a delicious meal to guest families in the family dining room. Members also cleaned up and washed dishes. After the families there were fed, everyone packed to-go boxes for the family members that were still at the hospital with their loved ones. This experience was great for team building with the Kiwanis family. Clubs made a tax-deductible donation to help provide the meal and support the program. Members from all five clubs participated in preparing and serving lunch and dinner with Chef Ian. For lunch on May 4th, Philly steak sandwiches, coleslaw, and potato salad were all made with fresh ingredients. Bread, steak sauce, and cheese sauce were prepared from scratch. For dinner on June 9th, pulled pork sandwiches, cucumber salad, potato salad, coleslaw, and pickled onions were made with fresh ingredients. Bread and cheese sauce were made from scratch. Members had a wonderful time working together to prepare and serve the families. The group also donated 100 Kiwanis Coloring Books to RMH.
Creating massive impact one project at a time.
A Look at Clubs
Awards At Greater Abilene
LEGION OF HONOR FOR 25 YEARS
KIWANIAN NEIL TATOM RECEIVES AWARD
TWO MEMBERS RECEIVE CKI LEGACY AWARDS
President Cameo announced that Kiwanian Joey Parker has received his 25-year Legion of Honor. Joey has been a president and a Region 6 trustee. He has helped with the golf tournament committee and has been involved in many other aspects of leadership in both the club and in the Texas-Oklahoma District of Kiwanis International.
The Past Lieutenant Governor’s Youth Leadership Award is presented by the Past Lieutenant Governor’s Association. The purpose of the award is to recognize adults who give countless hours of dedicated service as mentors and leaders to our Service Leadership Programs such as Greater Abilene's high school Key Club in Clyde and the Circle K International Club that they sponsor at Hardin-Simmons University. This year’s recipient is Neil Tatom! Neil attended Abilene Christian University and is self-employed—he owns APTCO, a business supply company. He has held numerous positions at the district, division, & club level. He received the Distinguished LTG award in 2005-06, was the club president in 1996-1997, and has been active on the board & several committees during his 46-year membership. He’s also been the recipient of the George Hixson Fellowship, a C.T. Bush, Kiwanian of the Year, Layperson of the Year, and the Lowell Perry Memorial award. Neil was one of the original members involved in CKI at HSU. In 2016-2017, he was a member of the exploratory and charter committee, then was the head advisor to CKI for several years, and continues to serve as an integral part of the club's team of advisors. The other advisors seek his council, from the small details, like what food to bring for CKI parties, to helping select the club’s CKI $1,000 scholarship winners. Neil attends CKI meetings and provides guidance for the students as well as coming up with ideas for service projects. He came up with a service project that supported the historic Swenson House for several years. He helps design their T-shirts and offers great ideas for growing their club membership. He is the designer of all of the Kiwanis t-shirts and polos as well. Neil is a silent volunteer, always willing to lend a hand, helping kids of all ages, serving the community.
Submitted by Lyndel Cook
Angela Nicolini and John Landers were presented CKI Legacy Fund Awards at the club's last two meetings. Angela has been a Kiwanian for more than 30 years. She was involved with CKI since the club considered CKI participation in 2016 and was a faculty or club advisor. She was the moving force regarding the golf tournament. She came up with the idea for the fundraiser, was the first chairperson, and has since served twice as co-chair of the golf fundraiser. Angela has served on numerous Kiwanis committees and the Board of Directors and is a Club Past President. John has been a Kiwanian for more than 39 years. He was responsible for the Youth Services Toothbrush program for 27 years, providing every AISD kindergarten student with a toothbrush, until local dentists took over the program. He was a founding member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene Foundation and has served on numerous Kiwanis committees and the board.
The Kiwanis Club of Harker Heights participated in the Grand Reopening of Kern Park on Saturday, July 18th. Members passed out Kiwanis coloring books to children who stopped by and brochures about the club to the adults, and the adults were invited to come to a meeting. As an example of what Kiwanis is about, materials were provided to fill bags with activities to be donated to Foster Care Bell County for use with new children coming in. They also wrote notes of encouragement to put in each bag.
Kiwanis Club of Capitol Hill HS AWARDs & Recognitions Submitted by Rhonda McGuire
Kiwanis Club of Capitol Hill High School had much to celebrate. They recently had the opportunity to award a bright student with a scholarship as well as recognize several other academically gifted students. Kiwanis Mike Ossenkop stood with high school senior Fatima Solis and club president Billy Rendeluk as she received her $1000 scholarship for college. Solis is a senior at Capitol Hill High School and will attend college in the Fall. Kiwanians Billy Rendeluk, Mikę Ossenkop, Carolyn Sopher, and Rhonda McGuire posed with high school seniors who were recognized for outstanding grades and attendance at the end of the school year. Students were all seniors from Capitol Hill High School, Oklahoma City, OK.
Kiwanis Club of Harker Heights Grand Reopening Submitted by Rhonda Hershey
Submitted by Crystal Yates
"Helping hands" is a favorite phrase for many nonprofit and volunteer organizations. It captures the hands-on dedication and due diligence of volunteers. It is both a reminder and a motivator for members to become active and involved and unite with others. By pitching in together in servitude we can make great strides in our communities. Take a look at how the Kiwanis Club of Holly Lake Ranch, Big Sandy, has really captured this spirit. Annual HLR Kids Fishing Tournament The Kiwanis Club of Holly Lake Ranch, Big Sandy, co-sponsored the Annual Kids Fishing Tournament on June 2nd. The Hole 12 pond at Holly Lake Ranch was buzzing with energy as 22 eager kids gathered for fishing, fun, and friendly competition. Kiwanis Club provided donuts to kick off the event and trophies for the top 3 competitors. Event hosts Warren Blesh, Bruce Slaven, Craig Mervine, Brandon Belcher, and Gene Wiley generously provided the kids' lures and the prize for the first catch of the day. Kiwanis corporate member Origin Bank kept everyone hydrated with cold water and gave tackle boxes and sunglasses to every single contestant. This annual youth event brought families together for a memorable day on the water. Summer Food Drive For many local children, summer break means losing access to reliable school meals. To ensure no child in our community goes hungry while school is out, Kiwanis of Holly Lake Ranch, Big Sandy, organized a summer food drive to help stock the food pantry at Hawkins Helping Hand. Kiwanis corporate members, City National Bank and Origin Bank, participated by putting collection boxes in their lobbies. The community responded with generous donations of non-perishable food items. Club members Laura Smith and Michael Laurel delivered a truckload of essential groceries to Hawkins Helping Hand on June 30th. A special thanks to Origin Bank customer Ritchie Hartman, who made a generous cash donation of $250, which was used to purchase food items for the HHH food pantry. These donations will provide local families with a much-needed buffer against food insecurity during the remaining summer months. Community Partnerships at HLVFD Bingo Night The Kiwanis Club teamed up with the Holly Lake Volunteer Fire Department to serve snacks at the community's popular Saturday Bingo night. Volunteers Cara Kraft, Dianne Robinson, JoAnn Powell, Laura Smith, Michael Laurel, Rose Upton, and Sharon Lindquist took over the operations of the concession stand for the evening. This partnership is part of an ongoing commitment by the Kiwanis Club to staff the bingo concession stand at the VFD during months with a fifth Saturday. Thank you to all the dedicated volunteers who worked the shift and to everyone in the community who stopped by the window to support both organizations. 5th Monday at East Texas Food Bank A dedicated team of volunteers from Kiwanis of Holly Lake Ranch, Big Sandy, rolled up their sleeves on “5th Monday," June 29th, at the East Texas Food Bank in Tyler. The volunteer lineup included Michael & Kathleen Laurel, Ben & Terri Zetsche, JoAnn Powell, Rose Upton, Laura Smith, and Christina Drake, and her daughter, Chandler Cook. The team started by packing banana boxes filled with essential food and beverage items that will be deployed to distribution sites across East Texas. The volunteers also worked at the bulk station, where they measured, sealed, and packed individual 1-pound bags of rice. When they were done, the team packed 96 boxes of food and beverages and 816 pounds of rice. Their incredible effort translates into hundreds of meals for our neighbors in need. 4th of July Home Decorating Contest The Kiwanis Club of Holly Lake Ranch, Big Sandy, celebrated our nation's 250th anniversary with their first-ever 4th of July Home Decorating Contest, drawing an impressive field of 15 homeowner entries. Homeowners displayed incredible patriotism, but after the judging was done, 1st Place went to Kim Shoemaker, who won a 2-year subscription to the Kiwanis Flag Program. Debbie Hart won 2nd Place for a 1-year subscription. Due to overwhelming success and community demand, plans are underway to make this inaugural competition an annual event. 4th of July Hot Dog Event The Kiwanis Club of Holly Lake Ranch, Big Sandy, hosted its highly anticipated annual 4th of July Hot Dog Event. Crowds filled Holly Hall following the Holly Lake Ranch Golf Cart Parade. Holiday visitors of all ages enjoyed hot dogs, chips, and cold drinks while celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. This year’s event may have set a new attendance record, judging from the size of the crowd and the hundreds of hot dogs sold! The strong turnout made the day especially memorable and underscored how much residents and visitors look forward to this signature community tradition.
Holly Lake Ranch's Helping Hands
Submitted by Michael Laurel
The Kiwanis Club of Nacogdoches Blueberry Pancake Breakfast Submitted by Dr. Darrel McDonald
The Kiwanis Club of Nacogdoches held their Blueberry Pancake Breakfast as part of the 36th annual Blueberry Festival held in downtown Nacogdoches. The event attracts over 20,000 attendees. Although the Kiwanis Club has been cooking pancakes for some 70 years, it has become a signature draw for the festival. Each year they invite individual guest cooks, including civic leaders, local officials, and representatives of the SFASU Academic faculty, staff, athletics coaches, players, and cheerleaders. This year, special cooks and servant leaders from the Texas-Oklahoma Kiwanis District included Governor John Cano, Governor-Elect Marty Mullins, and Region 7 Trustee Sherry Dupre, who brought an interclub group from her home Quitman Kiwanis Club. In addition, an interclub from the Lufkin Kiwanis Club led by Judith Culpepper, president, and President-elect Lyn Lentz helped serve the hungry folks. The club served over 5,250 fresh, piping hot blueberry pancakes, sourcing locally grown blueberries. The Nacogdoches Key Club helped with the event, as well as other youth groups, including the Honor Society and BSA Girl Scout Troop 2025.
Kiwanis Club of Weatherford, TX K-Family Day at Tarrant Area Food Bank- West Submitted by Shawn Loiacano
Kiwanis, Aktion, and Key Clubs recently spent their morning sorting 5243 lbs of food items. According to TAFB-W that calculates to 4367 meals. This helps the Tarrant Area Food Bank to better and more efficiently serve those in need.
The Kiwanis Club of Lufkin's main service project over the last several years is helping the Christian Information Service Center distribute food through the Senior Box Program for families over 60 years of age who qualify. This program works in conjunction with the Department of Agriculture and the East Texas Food Bank as well as local contributors. This year the program serves approximately 324 families each month with a 40-pound box of food.
Kiwanis Club of Lufkin Senior Box Program Submitted by Dr. Darrel McDonald
Submitted by Andrew Carlson
The Kiwanis Club of Abilene Honors Local Fire Captain with the Robert P. Connelly Medal of Heroism
At its June 17 meeting, the Kiwanis Club of Abilene presented the Robert P. Connelly Medal of Heroism to Fire Captain Lawson "Gus" Stuart, a civilian federal firefighter and paramedic assigned to Dyess Fire & Emergency Services at nearby Dyess Air Force Base. In addition, the club made a $500 donation to Captain Stuart's nonprofit of choice. On Feb. 10, 2025, Capt. Stuart responded to a medical emergency at the end of the active runway at Dyess, where he discovered a construction worker had become pinned against a metal wall by a large industrial pipe while working in a trench 30 feet below ground. Capt. Stuart quickly realized the worker would not survive unless immediate action was taken, so he made the selfless decision to enter the trench without full protective rescue equipment. Once inside the trench, Stuart coordinated with personnel above to stabilize and lift the pipe off the victim, saving his life. Established by Kiwanis International in 1967, the award honors the memory of Robert Connelly, an ordinary Kiwanian who sacrificed his own life while attempting to save the life of another. Over the decades, hundreds of individuals have been honored for their acts of bravery, heroism, and sacrifice. Capt. Stuart was so moved by the club’s service to the Abilene community that he decided to become a new Kiwanian himself!
Kiwanis Club of Abilene member Billy Sides (left) and President Randy Roewe (right) present the Robert P. Connelly Medal of Heroism to Capt. Lawson “Gus” Stuart, a firefighter and paramedic with Dyess Fire & Emergency Services at Dyess Air Force Base.
Kiwanis Club of greater abilene AG Scholarship Submitted by Lyndel Cook
The Kiwanis Club of Mineola sponsored a Best Decorated Residence contest. 11 entries were submitted with the winner, a full property-decorated home owned by Jan Scurlock in a lake subdivision on the north side of Mineola. The club placed a yard sign to acknowledge the best judged entry. The Mineola Club is well known as the "Flag Club," with over 500 flag subscriptions as their major fundraiser, so this punctuated that project. The winner happens to be one of their subscribers but will get the following 5 years free as the best decorated in town. The award was presented at a July 4th ceremony at the local football stadium before a great community turnout honoring the nation's celebration. An interesting note is that two other area Kiwanis Clubs heard about the project plans at a Division Council Meeting in May and implemented the idea in their own communities. Further, Mrs. Scurlock was invited to visit the club following the honor and is considering becoming their newest member.
Kiwanian Ikie Tayor presented an Ag Science Scholarship for $1,500 to Georgia Munden from Merkel High School. Georgia will be attending Tarleton State University and majoring in animal science. Georgia was very busy as the Merkel FFA Chapter President, National Honor Society President, and editor of the Merkel High School Year Book. She also placed 11th in the 2026 Houston Market Goat Show. Congrats, Georgia!
President Cameo introduced Bryan Basham, president of World Christian Broadcasting, as the club's speaker on a recent Thursday. Bryan spoke about Lowell Perry and how WCB began. He even mentioned that the WCB is also celebrating their 50th anniversary. Their beginning: Maurice Hall, a 2nd Lieutenant in WWII, suggested using shortwave radio during the war. Short-wave radio listeners grew to several billion worldwide. WCE broadcast the message of Christ in Chinese, Russian, English, Korean, Spanish, Arabic, and Portuguese. WBC broadcast from Madagascar and from Anchor Point, Alaska. President Cameo also presented a $1,000 check to Bryan in support of the work of WBC.
The Kiwanis Club of Mineola Best Decorated Residence Submitted by Sam Curry
Kiwanis Club of greater abilene WORLD CHRISTIAN BROADCASTING Submitted by Lyndel Cook
June Growth + Harrah Oklahoma +4 Texas Hill Country +3 June Growth % Harrah Oklahoma 16% Texas Hill Country 13% July Growth + Wylie +19 Quman/Lake Fork +5 YTD + Robson Ranch +21 Harrah Oklahoma +14 Paris +14 Jones +10 South Oklahoma City +9 Abilene +9 Allen +9 Navasota +9 YTD % Harrah Oklahoma 93% Coppell 86% Navasota 82% Robson Ranch 60% Texas Hill Country 44% Broken Bow 40% South Oklahoma City 36% Chickasha 33%
New Club and SLP Charters
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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. Kiwanis Club of Wylie with 20 members, sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Northeast Dallas County K-Kids Club of Boyd Elementary with 30 members in Allen, TX, sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Allen Builders Club of Artie Henry Middle School in Cedar Park, TX with 20 members sponsored by Kiwanis Club of Northwest Austin Builders Club of Gainesville, TX with 20 members, sponsored by Kiwanis Club of Gainesville
Update as of 8/11/2026
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July left us with so much to catch up on...
The T-O Key Club District has been busy this summer. One of the best ways to catch up is through reading their newsletters. By clicking the button below you can view what they were last up to in the months of May and June.
Submitted by Kelly Poland
July was a whirlwind for Key Club! It kicked off with the TX-OK District of Key Club hosting the Key Club International Convention at the Anatole Hilton in Dallas. TX-OK was well-represented, with 74 students and 10 adults joining us from July 1 to 5. And guess what? 10 more DFW area students came by each day! Three of our 25-26 Lt. Governors—Tien Nguyen from Div 10, Ruth Yaregal from Div 11, and Bisan Abdalla from Div 9 received the Robert F. Lucus Distinguished Lt. Governor award. Plus, past Governor Hannah Nguyen received a Distinguished Governor award, along with District Officers Kunj Senjaliya and Nancy Nguyen, who also received Distinguished awards. This year, International introduced a fantastic contest called “The Big Pitch,” which gives 3 lucky clubs cash to support a service project. Two TX-OK Key Clubs made it to the top 5 finalists and presented their “pitches” to the entire convention, where the body voted on the winners. Fulshear HS in Katy, TX, was the big winner, snagging a $10,000 grant! Their project is helping immigrants navigate the government channels to become citizens and offering support within their community. The TX-OK Key Club Board held their annual Summer Board in Texarkana, right alongside the Kiwanis District Convention. Not only did the Board handle Key Club business, but they also attended several Kiwanis sessions. It was quite a sight to see all the red polos lined up along the back wall during the opening session or walking the hallway. Key Club is definitely the future of Kiwanis, and this board is already planning to continue their K-family pathway in life. Now, Key Club is gearing up for the start of the school membership push! If you sponsor a Key Club, attend a meeting, or host a back-to-school event inviting parents to discuss the benefits of the whole K-Family, you’ll be glad you did.
News
So many Key Club members were recognized for their amazing achievements. The annual Recognition and Awards Session was able to shine the light on numerous dedicated and talented volunteers.
Dr. Kathy Culbertson set to step up and serve as President for 2026-2027
Governor Designate Marty Mullins to Mark Regional Visits During His Year
As we approach our new year on October 1, 2026, Governor Marty’s Leadership Team is busy putting together regional visits all over Texas and Oklahoma. Here are the dates for you to add to your calendar. Past Lt. Governors within the region will meet at 9am, and all conferences will begin at 10am. More information on location will be sent to all presidents and secretaries. Saturday, October 3, 2026 Regional 9 Saturday, October 24, 2026 Regional 1 Saturday, November 7, 2026 Region 6 Saturday, December 5, 2026 Region 10 Friday, December 11, 2026 Region 2 Saturday, January 23, 2027 Region 8 Saturday, March 6, 2027 Region 7 Saturday, April 3, 2027 Region 3 Saturday, April 10, 2027 Region 4 Saturday, April 24, 2027 Region 5
Denise is a 11-year member of the Kiwanis Club of Paris and currently serves on the District Convention Team. Denise currently serves as club secretary and was a Distinguished Club Secretary for 2023-2024. She is the Kiwanis Adviser for K-Kids at Crockett Intermediate School.
Texas-Oklahoma Kiwanis Foundation Elects New Officers
Kathy has spent 31 years in Kiwanis, starting out as a Key Club faculty advisor for a high school in Fort Worth and progressing to secretary, lieutenant governor, governor-elect, and district governor (2023/2024). She is a member of the Fort Worth and Weatherford Kiwanis Club.
Denise Kornegay to serve as President-Elect for 2026-2027
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Quitman Kiwanians bring global perspective home after international convention
Written by Megan Whitworth
Five members of the Quitman-Lake Fork Kiwanis Club traveled more than 8,000 miles to Manila, Philippines, last month, where they joined Kiwanians from around the world to exchange ideas, build friendships and return home with a renewed commitment to serving children in their own community. The group attended the Kiwanis International Convention June 24-27, 2026, joining hundreds of members representing clubs from approximately 80 countries. The five members representing Quitman were John and Joanne Wisdom, Sherry Dupre, Pam Bowdoin and Randy Bennett. While educational workshops focused on leadership, membership engagement and fundraising, attendees said some of the most meaningful lessons came outside the meeting rooms. “I love going to convention to connect with other members from around the world and hear the great stories about what their club does and how they do it,” said Joanne Wisdom, secretary of the local Kiwanis club and a member for 20 years. “I believe that when we attend the International conventions yearly, we are showing that our community and club are engaged in striving for the best and taking every opportunity to learn from others to improve upon our projects,” said Dupre, a Texas-Oklahoma District trustee and Kiwanian for 16 years. “I am always proud to say that we are from Quitman/Lake Fork.” “Sometimes people say they only want to support local projects,” Dupre added. “But after going to conventions around the world, you see those faces and how can you not help them? Today they live in Manila. Maybe next year they will live in Quitman.” According to Bowdoin, five of the nine convention attendees from the Texas-Oklahoma District of Kiwanis International came from Quitman. “We would wear matching shirts each day so we stood out a little more,” Bowdoin said. “People would come up to us to get a picture since there were a good amount of us, and of course, because we were from Texas.” This year’s convention centered on the theme “Get Together, Stay Together,” encouraging clubs to strengthen membership while expanding their impact on children around the world. Wisdom said one presentation on grant writing gave her ideas the Quitman club could begin exploring at home. “I would like to see us start pursuing more grant opportunities,” Wisdom said. “Every time I go to convention I come back with new ideas for service, fundraising and leadership. This time was no exception, and hopefully the knowledge I gained will help the club increase its effectiveness and positive impact on the community.” Outside the convention, members experienced a country of striking contrasts. They toured Taal Volcano, sampled Filipino cuisine and learned about the country’s iconic jeepneys by taking a tour of a factory. A jeepney is a form of public transportation that started after World War II when locals took abandoned U.S. Jeeps and stretched them into buses, Wisdom said. Several members pointed to one story that left a lasting impression. A Kiwanis club in Cebu, Philippines, shared how it funds approximately 100 cleft palate surgeries each year for children through capital campaigns and grants. Bowdoin was also deeply moved by another club that created a community food program that serves children three hot meals a day, seven days a week, after the death of an 8-year-old child from malnutrition. “That is what Kiwanis is here for,” Bowdoin said. “To truly make a difference in the lives of kids.” Bowdoin was also deeply moved as she walked through neighborhoods affected by poverty. “The first few days we stayed in the convention center and I felt like I was in America. However, our first tour was completely opposite of that,” Bowdoin said. Bowdoin said walking through neighborhoods where many families live in poverty gave the group a new perspective on everyday life in the Philippines. “We walked through a part of Manila where most people live in poverty. Fifty percent of the city is at poverty level, and it’s mind blowing to see how people just use whatever they can find to build their homes. Everywhere you would just see people doing what they had access to just to survive. Coming over to a place like America is a dream and we completely take it for granted.” “Walking through what we would call a slum area and seeing how many live so very sparsely on such a small income, but yet they are generally a very happy people,” Dupre added. She also recalled children approaching visitors asking for money before returning moments later to play with other children. “It broke your heart to see them,” Dupre said, “and yet two minutes later they were playing with other children without a care in the world.” Despite the poverty, all three members described the Filipino people as exceptionally welcoming. “You think Texas is great at hospitality?” Bowdoin said. “The Philippines has us beat.” For Wisdom, the convention reinforced that even a club from a small East Texas community can have a role in a much larger mission. “Our local club connects us to our community,” Wisdom said. “Convention brings a broader understanding and pride in the impact that our service has on the entire world.” As the members returned to Quitman, they brought more than ideas for future projects. They returned with a reminder that service extends beyond borders and that the work done in a small town can be part of something much larger. “We have to keep growing and evolving,” Bowdoin said. “The best way to do that is to form connections and friendships outside of your comfort zone. You have to get out and explore the world if you want to make your world great.” The 2027 Kiwanis International Convention will be held next summer in Dallas.
Hello, My name is Brittani Brewer, Marketing Manager for Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers / Ram-Z Restaurants. I am reaching out because I believe we have an opportunity to help your organization raise meaningful funds in a simple, scalable way while engaging supporters across multiple communities. Through Freddy's Force 4 Good, qualifying organizations receive 15% back from eligible sales generated during their fundraising event. Supporters can participate in-store, through the drive-thru, or through the Freddy's app by using the GIVEBACK promo code when placing a pickup order. Please note that third-party delivery services are not eligible for fundraising credit. (Fundraising flyer example below.) One of the things I love most about this program is how easy it is to participate. Organizations only need to generate $250 in eligible sales to qualify for the fundraising donation. There is no inventory to manage, no products to sell, and no order forms to collect. Supporters simply enjoy a meal while supporting a cause they care about. We currently have 39 Freddy's locations across Oklahoma, Texas, Ohio, Kentucky, and Arkansas that are available to support fundraising efforts. Because many organizations have chapters, affiliates, and supporters in multiple communities, we are exploring opportunities to create larger fundraising initiatives that extend beyond a single location. To put the opportunity into perspective: • 39 participating Freddy's locations • Just $1,000 in eligible fundraiser sales per location • Approximately $5,850 donated back to your organization That's nearly $6,000 raised from a single coordinated fundraising event. Supporters can help generate results through social media, email campaigns, newsletters, text messaging, chapter communications, volunteer networks, and community outreach. We also work with our restaurant teams to support fundraising awareness and help ensure qualifying purchases are properly tracked. As an added benefit, supporters who download the Freddy's app receive a reward within 24 hours that can be redeemed with a qualifying $5 purchase, including select menu favorites such as a Double Steakburger or a Regular Concrete. This gives supporters another reason to engage while supporting your mission. I am passionate about helping organizations raise more funds and finding bigger ways to give back. I would love the opportunity to discuss how Freddy's Force 4 Good could support your chapters, affiliates, and communities through a coordinated multi-location fundraising partnership. Thank you for the incredible work your organization does. I look forward to the opportunity to connect with your fundraising or partnership team. Warm regards, Brittani Brewer Marketing Manager Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers / Ram-Z Restaurants bbrewer@ramz.com 580-740-6779
Division
Club
Name
38
Kiwanis Club of Kerrville
James Patrick Walsh
4
Kiwanis Club of Corpus Christi Bay
Charlie Saenz
Kiwanis Club of Lone Grove
Charles Rutledge
Harvey Wilson
12
Kiwanis Club of San Angelo
Roland Howard
Kiwanis Club of San Antonio-Bexar
Charles Lutter
Kiwanis Club of Choctaw
Paul Snyder
Kiwanis Club of Sun City Georgetown
Paula Sutter
Kiwanis Club of Paris
Peggy Hawkes
Kiwanis Club of McLoud
Nancy Tigrett
San Antonio Army Residence Community Golden K
Rafael Villarreal
Texas Oklahoma Kiwanis District Editor's Message Evelyn Herrera
In Loving Memory
“The idea is not to live forever, it is to create something that will.” – Andy Warhol
Gratitude I want to take a moment to thank everyone who has reached out to me after the district convention. While I may have been absent from DCON this year, I appreciated hearing people looked forward to meeting me and were appreciative of my work on Ki-Notes. For those who are unaware, I have been the Ki-Notes editor for almost 7 years now. When I started, I was quite the rookie. Even though I had an artistic touch, becoming the editor of this newsletter has continually pushed me to learn, grow, and become more creative. If you visit the Ki-Notes page on the district website, you can see my work on Ki-Notes developing ever since 2019. While I have a deep passion for this work, I could not have come this far without such a strong district team, engaged members, and supportive Kiwanian friends. Thank you to everyone for joining me on this journey. It has been a pleasure growing within the district, and I am ever so excited to continue to make more connections. Thank you to everyone who has diligently submitted content and reads each issue. You are what makes Ki-Notes so special.
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