KI-NOTES
August 2025 (Issue NO. 42)
A Publication of the Texas-Oklahoma District of Kiwanis International
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Governor: Bobby Quinten Immediate Past Governor: Dr. Kathy Culbertson
OUR STORY
KI Notes Staff
The first Kiwanis Club in what is now the Texas-Oklahoma District, was officially completed February 10, 1917, at Dallas, Texas, with a membership of 200. Due to the increasing number of clubs across the country members realized the need of setting up the District organization. In October 1918, the Dallas Club selected one of its members to serve as interim Governor of the Texas-Oklahoma District until an organization conference could be arranged. The first meeting was in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and on February 10, 1919, the Texas-Oklahoma District was organized.
4 Governor's Message 6 The Six Objects 8 DCON RECAP 28 Events 30 A Look at Clubs 40 Editor's Message
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Contents
www.txokkiwanis.org
https://twitter.com/txokkiwanis
24-25 District Officers
Editor: Evelyn Herrera District Marketing Chair: Marshall Kregel
txokdist@swbell.net
texas oklahoma district
www.facebook.com/texasoklahomakiwanis
817-640-7711
Texas Oklahoma Kiwanis District Governor's Message Bobby Quinten
KIWANIANS = PEOPLE POWERED BY THE OBJECTS At the 2025 District Convention in July, delegates spent much time discussing bylaw amendments in the House of Delegates. Our District Bylaws are important because the Texas-Oklahoma District is a business. The District is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit social welfare legal entity. There are times we must talk like a business, think like a business, and transact like a business. Our business must comply with the laws and must file timely paperwork with authorities. There are regulators, watchdogs, and agencies who care deeply about how we conduct business. The District has many legal responsibilities. The District has strong legal vulnerabilities. Consequently, at times we have no choice but to discuss bylaws, processes, and procedures. Bylaws govern Kiwanis. However, the moment we allow District Bylaws to drive who we are and what we do as Kiwanians, we lose the mission. What drives Kiwanians are the Objects. What drives Kiwanians are the Six Objects of Kiwanis, adopted 101 years ago by 3,000 delegates at the International Convention in Denver. These Six Objects, crafted in 1924, survived the Roaring Twenties and the Great Depression, World War II and the Baby Boom, the Korean War and the Cold War, the Space Race and the Civil Rights Era, the Vietnam War, and the assassination of President Kennedy. These same Six Objects lived through Watergate and the energy crisis, disco in the 70s and punk rock in the 80s, the Gulf War, and 9/11. They led Kiwanis through presidents from both political parties, economic booms and economic downturns, the Internet and social media, and even a global pandemic. Yet today, the Six Objects have not changed. The Objects remain relevant to who we are as Kiwanians. They tell the world what we stand for. The Objects provide the foundation for every Kiwanian and every club to improve their community and the world one child at a time. Kiwanians must be people powered by the Objects. Kids need Kiwanis today more than they have ever needed Kiwanis before. I urge you to live out every single one of the six Objects in everything you do as Kiwanians. If you do not know them, get to know the Six Objects of Kiwanis and embed them in everything your club is doing. Doing so will make their world a better place. Thank you for the honor of serving as your District Governor. I am grateful for you and thankful for your support. Please continue to work together on the mission—one child, one community at a time—in the spirit of the Six Objects of Kiwanis. Thank you! Bobby Quinten TX-OK Kiwanis Governor
The Objects of Kiwanis answer two questions for all to know. What do Kiwanians do? And for what purposes do we do them?
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We give primacy to the human and spiritual, rather than the material, values of life. We encourage the daily living of the Golden Rule in all human relationships. We promote the adoption and the application of higher social, business, and professional standards. We develop, by precept and example, a more intelligent, aggressive, and serviceable citizenship. We provide, through Kiwanis clubs, a practical means to form enduring friendships, to render altruistic service, and to build better communities. We cooperate in creating and maintaining that sound public opinion and high idealism that make possible the increase of righteousness, justice, patriotism, and goodwill.
The Six Objects
DCON SURVEY
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AMENDMENTS
OUR DISTRICT KIWANIS TEXAS-OKLAHOMA DISTRICT
Kiwanis of Northeast Tarrant County set to host their 21st Annual Butterfly Festival at 532 Keller Pkwy, Keller, TX 76248-2303, United States on September 20-21.
Saturday Sept 6th, 10am-4pm Highland Lakes Kiwanis Club presents Market Day on Main Street, Downtown Marble Falls TX. Vendors, Food, Music, Shopping & More! https://marketdayonmain.com
Kiwanis Club of Texarkana Hosts Inaugural K.I.D.S. Camp for Children with Diabetes Submitted by Barbara Walker
Texarkana, TX - The Kiwanis Club of Texarkana proudly launched its first-ever K.I.D.S. Camp (Kids Improving Diabetes Safety) from June 9–13, 2025, at Camp Preston Hunt, marking a significant step forward in the club’s ongoing commitment to supporting youth and families in the Texarkana area. Originally envisioned more than 30 years ago by Mary Jackson, the camp was designed as a unique, inclusive day camp tailored specifically for children living with diabetes. It offers a safe, supportive, and fun environment where kids can fully enjoy the camp experience while also learning to manage their condition with confidence. Throughout the week, campers participated in a variety of enriching activities, from outdoor adventures and team-building games to diabetes-friendly cooking lessons, arts and crafts, and educational sessions led by medical professionals and trained volunteers. Each element of the camp was designed to foster independence, boost self-esteem, and build a sense of community among children who often navigate unique health challenges. “This camp was born out of a desire to fill a gap in our community,” said Destiny Carter, Camp Coordinator and Kiwanis President-Elect. “We wanted to create a space where children with diabetes feel seen, supported, and celebrated. Judging by the joy on their faces all week long, I think we absolutely achieved that.” The success of the K.I.D.S. Camp was made possible thanks to the generous support of local sponsors, healthcare partners, dedicated volunteers, and proceeds from Kiwanis Club fundraising efforts. Importantly, the camp was offered completely free of charge to all participating families. About the Kiwanis Club of Texarkana: The Kiwanis Club of Texarkana is committed to improving the lives of children through service projects, leadership initiatives, and community partnerships. As a proud chapter of Kiwanis International, the club has served the Texarkana region since 1915, striving to make a lasting impact on the next generation. For more information about future camps or to learn how you can get involved, please contact: Kiwanis Club of Texarkana at www.kiwaniscluboftexarkana.com
Creating massive impact one project at a time.
A Look at Clubs
Submitted by Glenda Rast
THE RAINS CAME; KIWANIS RESPONDED
On July 4, 2025, almost record rains fell on small towns in Central Texas. In the still of the night, as people slept after enjoying time with friends and family on the Guadalupe River and dreaming of the fun and adventure that awaited them the next day, the water came. Rushing water carried away houses, cars, and trees, leaving nothing in its path but destruction, pain, and suffering. The amount of rain and flooding defied even the “worst case” estimations of many meteorological computer programs, and broadcasting the warning was complicated by lack of cell phone coverage in many areas. As the rain fell, the terrain of the area funneled water, causing the river level to rise to devastating levels, rising one foot every two to three minutes in some areas. Up to a week later, more rain came, bringing additional flooding and loss. What started as a seemingly simple inquiry from the T-O District Disaster Committee turned into so much more. In true Kiwanis fashion, the Texas Hill Country Kiwanis Club stepped up, offering emergency disaster hygiene backpacks (provided by the District) to those in need. The initial delivery of backpacks was made on July 6, with a second and third distribution occurring a few days later. But, there was still more work to be done. At the request of T-O personnel, the Texas Hill Country Club began collecting financial contributions. Donations came in, not just from our friends and family and colleagues, but from around the T-O District as well as neighboring districts. Every dollar donated goes directly to vetted 501(c)(3) organizations directly involved in flood relief efforts. We have begun to distribute funds and supplies and will continue to do so as long as we have funding. We still need your help! You can donate here or mail donations to: Texas Hill Country Kiwanis Club, P. O. Box 542, Spring Branch, TX 78070 Funds are considered tax-deductible financial contributions to help those who have lost so much. Recovery efforts continue, and the residents are beginning the long, backbreaking, and heartbreaking process of trying to put their lives together, a process that will take several months or even a year or more.
Texarkana, TX – The Kiwanis Club of Texarkana proudly hosted its 2025 Annual Banquet on Tuesday, June 17, at 6:00 PM, at the Truman Arnold Student Center, located on the Texarkana College campus. This annual celebration highlights the club’s dedication to serving the community through service, leadership, and philanthropy. A major highlight of the evening was the presentation of more than $32,000 grants to local nonprofits and organizations working to make a lasting impact in the lives of children, families, and under-served communities. From youth development and education, to food security and healthcare, this year’s recipients reflect a broad range of essential services in the Texarkana area. Grant recipients included: Ag Learning Center at Four States Fair Grounds Beds for Kids Boy Scout Troop 86 Caddo Area Council CASA of Northeast Texas – Volunteer Advocate Summit Dolly Parton Imagination Library Domestic Violence Prevention Downtown Veteran Support Group East Texas Food Bank Fearfully & Wonderfully Made First Choice Pregnancy Center For the Sake of One Girl Scout Troop 2123 Hope 29 Hospice of Texarkana Mariah House NVST TXK Razorback EAST Pig Pantry Running WJ Grant 1 Running WJ Grant 2 Salvation Army Kids Club House Stuff the Bus Texarkana AR Police Department PRIDE Program Texarkana College Foundation Texarkana Presidential Scholarship Texarkana ISD Resource Center Texarkana Resources for the Disabled Texarkana Young Marines Today’s Youth Tomorrow’s Leaders Texarkana Regional Arts & Humanities Council (TRAHC) In addition to, over $3,000 in scholarships were awarded for Sophomore of the Year to Karsyn Burns and 5 Leadership Scholarships to Kylie McAlister, Shekinah Perlas, Mackenzie Wiley, Stephanie Shimpock, and Grant Shaw. The club celebrated the successful launch of its inaugural Kiwanis K.I.D.S. Camp, a summer initiative focused on children living with diabetes. Originally started over 30 years ago by Mary Johnson. The camp provided a supportive, educational environment designed to help campers build confidence, learn critical self-care skills, and connect with others facing similar challenges. It was a meaningful step forward in the club’s mission to serve the children of the world. Especially, those with unique health needs. Kiwanis Club Vice President Barbara Walker shared, “We are so proud to support these incredible organizations and launch our new programs like K.I.D.S. Camp that directly touch the lives of children in our area. When we invest in our youth, we’re investing in the future of Texarkana.” The banquet also featured recognition of outstanding Kiwanis members and community leaders who exemplify the spirit of service and commitment. Mayor Bob Bruggeman presented the Citizen Award to Mary Johnson and Destiny Carter, who received the Kiwanian of the Year Award. For more information about the Kiwanis Club of Texarkana or to get involved, please visit www.kiwaniscluboftexarkana.org .
Kiwanis Club of Texarkana Awards Over $34,000 in Grants at Annual Banquet
At the 2025 Joint Chamber of Commerce Banquet, the Davis Kiwanis Club was chosen as this year’s Murray County Civic Club of the Year. This award is based on nominations and covers civic groups across both Davis and Sulphur. Nominations are then voted on by both Chamber Boards. The picture above showcases club members and officers posing with the award.
Submitted by Jim Van den Dyssel
Paddles for a Purpose: Southlake Kiwanis Club Serves Up Scholarships Through Pickleball
Denton Noon Kiwanis Club Watermelon Carving Contest Sourced from Facebook
The Southlake Kiwanis Club hosted its inaugural Spring Paddles for a Purpose Pickleball Tournament on Saturday, April 26th, at the Southlake Pickleball Complex—transforming a day of friendly competition into a powerful fundraising effort for local students. The tournament, powered by the SWISH Tournament App, brought together dozens of pickleball enthusiasts of all skill levels. Thanks to strong community support, player participation, and the generosity of sponsors, the event successfully raised funds to support the club’s Key Club Scholarship Program, which helps recognize and reward outstanding student leaders in the community. “This tournament was about more than just having fun on the court—it was about giving back to the next generation of service-minded students,” said Tournament Co-Chair Dan Seyler. “We’re grateful to everyone who participated, volunteered, or sponsored the event. Your involvement directly supports young leaders who are making a difference.” shared Tracy Ferguson, Club President. The event featured mixed doubles, and men’s and women’s divisions, and was marked by competitive play, sportsmanship, and a shared commitment to community impact. Volunteers from the club, Key Club members, and local supporters kept things running smoothly throughout the day. The funds raised from Paddles for a Purpose will go directly toward Key Club scholarships, which are awarded annually to deserving high school seniors who demonstrate leadership, academic excellence, and a commitment to service.
LSA Burger Company and many Denton local businesses came out in support of the Denton Noon Kiwanis Club Children’s Clinic! Through fantastic community support of the club's Watermelon Carving Contest, many funds were raised. For 100 years, the Denton Noon Kiwanis Club has provided medical, dental, vision, and mental health care to uninsured children of Denton County. That is only possible through the support of generous community members and businesses.
Kiwanis Club of Davis Civic Club of the Year Submitted by Heath Foster
Empowering Education with Wholesale School Supplies
Understanding the critical role of proper tools in the educational journey, we proudly offer a wide array of wholesale school supplies and if we don’t have what you are looking for, we will work with you to be able to source it and meet your needs. The collection is designed to support students from preschool through high school, encompassing essential items such as notebooks, glue, folders, rulers, and creative materials like scissors, glue, and crayons for art projects. By providing these wholesale school supplies at affordable prices, we ensure that educational institutions and school districts, regardless of size or budget, can afford to supply their students with the resources needed for a comprehensive learning experience.
One-Stop Shop
KI Notes submissions can be emailed to txokkiwanis@gmail.com.
Texas Oklahoma Kiwanis District Editor's Message Evelyn Herrera
WHOA DCON Did you get a chance to visit DCON this year? If not, did you take a peek at all the fun online or through KI Notes? It was a BLAST. What part of the district convention spoke out most to you? This year's convention showcased the district's immersion in community work. With their first-ever hands-on service room, members had the opportunity to do collective good while gathered. What an amazing opportunity for connectivity while working on goods for local pantries! Did you see the local vendors showcase their items? What artistry! Not only did Kiwanians get a chance to volunteer, but they boosted the local economy while in Denton. They especially boosted sales for the vendors present at the convention. There was a plethora of handcrafted artisan work and goodies. We sure hope you had a chance to sample some of Denton's top-notch items. No matter what part of DCON was your favorite, take inspiration from the fun and sprinkle the goodness in your own town! Host your own local vendor fair, create flood buckets for disaster relief, or stock up local pantries. Part of being a Kiwanian is leveraging all we learn for the betterment of our communities.