Key Club Update pg.23
ISSUE NO. 25
flood buckets Pg.20
A Publication of the Texas-Oklahoma District of Kiwanis International
Governor Bio pg.8
KI-NOTES
October 2022
New Governor Patrick McCage
Contact us
Governor: Patrick McCage Governor-elect: Kathy Culbertson Immediate Past Governor: Brad McKenzie
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.
Regionals needed in various areas. Want to get involved with Key Club on a District level? Contact us for a job description if this sounds like something you would like to do. Contact Adrian Thompson at adrianthekiwanian@gmail.com.
YOU!
3 Regionals Wanted 4 KI Notes Guidelines and Deadlines 6 Governor's Message 8 Governor Bio 12 A Look at Clubs 20 Disaster Relief: Flood Buckets 22 Why We're Excited about ICON 2023 23 Key Club Update 24 Lessons Learned From My Year as President 27 DCON 2023 28 In Loving Memory 29 Editor's Message
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Contents
www.txokkiwanis.org
Region
Cities in Region
2
OK City | Woodward
4
Plano | McKinney | Allen
5
San Angelo | Brownwood | Abilene
8
Waco | Temple | Harker Heights
10
Nacodoches | Lufkin | Athens | Tyler
12
Bryan-College Station | Cypress | Katy | West Chase
13
North Houston | Sugarland | Galveston | Baytown | Texas City | Pearland
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22-23 District Officers
Editor: Evelyn Herrera District Marketing Chair: Marshall Kregel
txokdist@swbell.net
P.O. Box 13160, Arlington 76094-3160
817-640-7711
WE WANT
OUR STORY
Regionals needed for Texas Oklahoma Key Club
texas oklahoma district
www.facebook.com/texasoklahomakiwanis
2022-2023 Issues
Publishing Date
Submission Deadline
December 1st-5th
November 25th
February 1st-5th
January 25th
April 1st-5th
March 25th
June 1st-5th
May 25th
August 1st-5th
July 25th
KI Notes Submissions: KI Notes is an online newsletter published by the Texas Oklahoma Kiwanis District. A new issue is published Bi-Monthly. Clubs are welcome to submit the following: Articles, videos, and photographs. Any other content is accepted on a case by case basis. All content must be emailed to txokkiwanis@gmail.com to ensure your submission is received. All articles must have a minimum of approximately 100 words. Submissions with less words will be published at Editor's discretion. Articles with less than a 100 word count will not qualify for Distinguished Club bonus points. Photographs of very low resolution are less likely to be used in large sizes due to pixelation. Low Quality videos are less likely to be used, especially if the content of the video cannot be deciphered. If we are sent a link that we cannot access we will contact the person who submitted it to us or that content will be discarded due to lack of access. We accept content directly from social media pages. Make sure to include a link and that the post is publicly accessible. Links to social media content do not qualify as an article submission for Distinguished Club bonus points. The KI Notes editor is always excited to see the wide variety of content submitted! The following is a list of the kinds of content clubs can submit for KI Notes. Club projects Club updates Club fundraisers Club appreciation letters New club ideas A Step-by-Step project tutorial A new partnership announcement SLP related content A story about a club member A story that captures aspects of your club A thank you letter to a fellow member A Success Story KI Notes is a tool for clubs to communicate what they are doing and the type of impact they are having on their community. Likewise, members are able to share their own stories and experiences with Kiwanis. We accept a broad range of content as long as it is connected to a club and/or our district. If your submissions do not align with such content you will be notified by the Editor. KI Notes Deadlines: KI Notes submissions must now be submitted on the 25th of the month prior of the publishing of an issue. Please reference the following to understand when to submit your content. As usual all content submitted after the submission deadline is included based on the Editor's discretion. If your content is done according to guidelines it may be published in the following issue if it did not meet the deadline. Please direct any questions or concerns at txokkiwanis@gmail.com.
KI Notes Guidelines and Deadlines
Texas Oklahoma Kiwanis District Governor's Message Patrick McCage
It’s with a humbled heart I begin this term as Governor of the Texas Oklahoma District of Kiwanis International 2022-2023. I am honored to lead our Texas Oklahoma District and thank you for this opportunity. Growing up in Gainesville, TX, my family received service from the local Boys and Girls Club and the TX-OK District; I never imagined in a million years that I would be in this current role as the leader of the District in which I received service from over 40 years ago. I think back to the blessings I received from the community leaders who have impacted my life and have helped shape my perspective of service to others. As within our community and your community, our servant hearts continue to this day. We are starting with around 5,000 members in the Texas Oklahoma District, equaling to 10,000 hands that ensure our commitment to our current level of service. Let’s start by serving the children in Texas and Oklahoma which in turn will impact the children of the world. Our 2022–2023 T-O District Leaders who raise their hand to volunteer to help me lead this district are to be commended. There are too many to mention now, but you will rightfully get to know them. From our youth protection manager, membership and marketing, club coaching, and all the SLP leaders I say thank you, thank you, thank you. Thanks to our other District Leaders who are staying on for additional terms. Thanks to you who are able to continue this mission. To Our T-O Trustees and Lieutenant Governors, you are the true conduit to the Clubs from the District. Without you, this organization would not exist. I am willing to reset my commitment to Kiwanis along with you this coming year and am excited to do so. But we cannot do it alone. We need to set our district priorities in line with the community we serve. This will and can continue throughout the years to come. We are relevant, in our own special way, to the communities we serve by creating many opportunities for the youth. Our efforts as members of this District are to be relevant to our current leadership, relevant to the community we serve, relevant to our club members, and especially relevant to the young people who are going to be our future club members and leaders. I and many members of our District and internationally understand that for the continuance of Kiwanis service, we must include all to assist us. As our cities and states are changing so must we as an organization be willing to change. We must succeed in identifying future leaders. We will not succeed as an organization without new ideas, new creative vision, and eliminating the not-so-good ideas. All clubs throughout T-O should be engaged with our young leaders in Key Club and CKI. These future leaders need to know and understand the name “Kiwanis”. Kiwanis, the most impactful organization in the world is here to stand behind them and is willing to support them. Supporting them now, coupled with the knowledge of Kiwanis, will leave an indelible mark on these young adults. They will carry this forward when they are ready and willing to make an impact for their cities with the Kiwanis name. I would like to introduce you to two Governors Projects that I would love for our clubs, division, and regions to take a look at to see if they will fit within your area. The first is The F.L.A.G Program, the acronym stands for “Fly, Lower, And, Gather”. Not all schools, but some schools are lacking patriotism, possibly lacking a pathway in teaching patriotism to our kids. It would be grand for Kiwanis to assist in instilling patriotism back into the schools. My goal is to have Kiwanis partner with the F.LA.G. founder Jim Rodriguez and offer this to your school district with your local Kiwanis Club leading the way. Who would say no to patriotism? I want to encourage all Texas & Oklahoma Kiwanis Clubs to blanket your city and county schools to implement the F.L.A.G program. I hope and pray this becomes a reality district-wide! Kiwanis’ SLPs are heavily involved in the schools and this program is a simple, patriotic, and brief curriculum that can educate and instill pride and respect for the United States Flag. The second I'd like to introduce is Crater the Cavities. Dental hygiene, do you know the best idea out there is a stolen idea? I so respect and admire what the Denton Texas Noon Kiwanis Club is doing. This club builds dental goody bags for many many students throughout Denton County. This club has a Kiwanis Children’s Clinic in Denton, Texas as well. With Kiwanis clubs supplying these packs or clubs helping to offset the cost of dental visits, every child in your community should be able to attend school with pain-free teeth. I’ve been told, kids with less pain and or discomfort will greatly enhance their studying and learning ability. And we all want our community children to strive within their education. In closing, I would like to remind you of something I saw from Kiwanis International. A reminder on “Asking for help…”. Sometimes we’re afraid that someone may laugh at what we do. We hesitate to reach out and ask, we feel inspired but we feel stuck. So when did we stop thinking like kids??? Kids are fearlessly brave and kids never stop inventing or creating, most importantly kids are open to new friendships. When you ask someone to join your club, your club gains new skills and resources, new ideas and creativity, and most importantly new energy. And don’t forget, you gain a potential new friend. Why don’t you take a chance and invite someone new, someone to help you think outside the sandbox? Because building a better world for kids means seeing the world the way a kid does! Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you for your service to your community, and thank you for being a part of the best organization, in my opinion in the world, hands down. Now, let’s get to work! Patrick McCage Governor, Texas Oklahoma District of Kiwanis International Kiwanis Club of Gainesville Texas 940-736-1603
McCage Family
Time and Purpose As Patrick started his new year as Governor of the Texas Oklahoma District of Kiwanis International, he discovered his passion that lies beneath Kiwanis: his volunteering of time and his drive for purpose. Governor Patrick understood service but lacked a vehicle to guide him. When Patrick’s wife, Carla, blessed them with their second child, his eyes opened and he realized his desire to make his community a better place. After looking into several civic organizations in Gainesville, Texas, Patrick was consistently encouraged by Kiwanian Johnny Leftwich, Past Lieutenant Governor of Division 8, to return for a second lunch date. Patrick discovered that in Gainesville, Texas, if you know Johnny Leftwich, then you know Kiwanis. Johnny is Gainesville‘s Mr. Kiwanis. Governor Patrick jumped in and became passionate about this local club's service projects, primarily the Live Radio Auction and the Auction’s benefactors. He eventually chaired this live auction for several years. Just last year, Patrick turned over the reins of the auction so he could focus on the next level of servant leadership for the District. After Patrick’s second year with the Gainesville Kiwanis Club, he raised his hand to volunteer to become President-elect in 2004. Like many clubs, club member circumstances changed and Patrick was elevated into his presidency a half year early. After a half year of "learning the ropes" as President, Patrick continued with his leadership by giving his time and finding his purpose for his community. While not always leading from the front, you could count on Patrick to support and encourage all members of his club. Gently pushing them to achieve their peak performance. This continued from 2011 through 2016, when he volunteered to take on the role of Club Secretary. During this time, Patrick received Distinguished Club Secretary honors. According to Patrick, the greatest honor and recognition he has ever received was from the club's own Johnny Leftwich Kiwanian of the Year Award. Patrick continued, "Many of you will understand that we recognize individuals after they depart from your club, in Memoriam. Gainesville Kiwanis felt the need to honor the man who is the epitome of Kiwanis while still living, hence the Johnny Leftwich Kiwanian of the Year Award." Governor Patrick promoted advancement in his club's leadership positions. He challenged individuals to take ownership of their club and to bring their ideas to the forefront. One of Patrick’s dear friends, Randall Estes, was encouraged to do just this. However, the challenge was reversed on Patrick when Randall stated, "If I do this Club President thing, then you’re doing this Lieutenant Governor thing." Patrick could not turn down "a double dog dare". Therefore, they both embarked on their respective leadership roles for the T-O District. Randall understood his role, promoted Kiwanis, and wrapped his loving arms around the youth. Most importantly, Randall gave his time to Gainesville. Unfortunately, midway through his presidency, Randall Estes passed away. The Gainesville Kiwanis Club mourned, leaned on one another, and reminisced about their fellow President's wit, humor, and caring devotion. As Lieutenant Governor of Division 8, Patrick honored Randall’s challenge and continued on. At that moment, Patrick found his purpose. "I knew I had the desire to fulfill my friend’s challenge and I wanted to share my purpose and mission of Kiwanis, serving the children of the world, one child and one community at a time," said Patrick. Governor Patrick continued to raise his hand to volunteer his time and purpose when he committed himself to serving the Texas Oklahoma District as Trustee of Region 5 for a little over three years. "I felt my obligation to Randall and Kiwanis was not complete. The trustee role allowed me to gain a better understanding of how the organization of Kiwanis works," said Patrick. In late spring of 2021, Patrick was approached to lead the District as Governor-Elect. Patrick was honored that his name was brought up in this conversation, and he needed a few days to consider and discuss it with his wife, Carla. Once Patrick broached the topic with his wife, Carla, lovingly said, "You’re going to do what?". With his family’s support, aligning with his purpose as mentioned above, and most importantly, support from the leadership of the Texas Oklahoma District of Kiwanis International, Patrick was elected Governor-Elect in 2021. Patrick has been married for 22 years to his wife and together they have raised two loving daughters. Their oldest daughter, Sydney, is currently residing in Manhattan, New York. Sydney successfully completed her master’s program and is currently working and in the process of pursuing her Ph.D. in clinical psychology. Their youngest daughter, Madyson, is in her third year of college, attending Oklahoma Wesleyan in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, where she is playing softball and perusing a degree in Sports Management. Patrick and Carla live outside of Gainesville, Texas. For the past 24 years, he has devoted himself to the citizenry of Gainesville as the Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Gainesville, Texas. Carla is the Director of Project Management for Thyssen Krupp, where she manages the construction of airline passenger boarding bridges. Governor Patrick has been involved in many projects in the parks and recreation field, including playground construction, swimming pool construction, amusement ride operations, and employee management. For well over 25 years he has been an instructor for the American Red Cross in lifeguarding, lifeguarding instructor, CPR, first aid, and AED. Governor Patrick’s family is passionate about finding the perfect powder for the annual ski trips and finding the most tranquil beaches in Mexico. Over the past couple of years, the McCage family has endured highs and lows which has only brought his entire family closer together. The word "family" takes on a sincere meaning for Governor Patrick. Every family needs time with one another and to share the family’s purpose. The Kiwanis family has endured for well over 100 years, and our time is now. Our purpose is to help each and every child in Texas and Oklahoma and the World. Governor Patrick looks forward to sharing your Time and Purpose in 2022-2023.
2022-2023 Governor Patrick McCage
Randall Estes
Johnny Leftwich
OUR DISTRICT KIWANIS TEXAS-OKLAHOMA DISTRICT
Sonny Bright Duck Race is an event that Kiwanis support benefiting Children’s Hospital Foundation, part of the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Sonny Bright Duck Race is at Turner Falls Park in Davis, OK on October 22, 2022 from 1:30. $1000.00 prize for the first place duck.
The Kerrville Kiwanis Club has teamed up with the City of Kerrville and Schreiner University to sponsor a 1/2k "RACE" or walk or stroll through the park. The event is set to take place October 31, 2022 at 6:30PM.
Kiwanis Club of Sweetwater, TX Homecoming Submitted by Gonzalo San Miguel
Kiwanis Club of Abilene Melvin Martin First Responders Award Submitted by Charles Kirkpatrick
On September 7th, the Kiwanis Club of Abilene held its 16th annual Melvin Martin First Responders Award program. The award is named for retired Abilene Police Chief Melvin Martin, who presented the award. This honor is for first responders who have demonstrated great ability and dedication to their profession and community. This year's recipient of the award is Taylor County Sheriff Ricky Bishop, who also serves as the chief of the View Volunteer Fire Department. Sheriff Bishop was honored by the Kiwanis Club of Abilene for his role as the incident commander during May's massive Mesquite Heat Fire. The Mesquite Heat Fire would ignite and become one of the largest and most dangerous fires in the history of Taylor County, consuming 10,960 acres off U.S. Highway 277, roughly seven miles southwest of Abilene. Special guests at the recognition were members of eleven of the twelve Taylor County Volunteer Fire Departments. Also attending were members of the Texas Forest Service, Abilene Fire Department, officers of the Department of Public Safety, and representatives from the Texas Baptist Men's Association, and Nehemiah Men who assisted during the fire. State Representative Stan Lambert attended and presented Sheriff Bishop with a State of Texas flag in appreciation for Sheriff Bishop's leadership. Brad Birchum, Precinct Three County Commissioner of Taylor County, expressed his appreciation for the volunteer fire departments. He remarked that we were surrounded by greatness. He expressed that we saw heroes in action during the fire and praised Sheriff Bishop for putting others before himself as he stayed the course, even as the fire threatened his own home. This event is always one of our most inspiring meetings of the year and brings our first responders the recognition they deserve.
Each year, the Kiwanis Club of Belton presents a Citizenship Award to one 5th grade student from each elementary school and one 8th grade student from each middle school in the Belton Independent School District. Staff members at each campus nominate one student who is friendly and helpful to everyone, who has a positive demeanor, who finds ways to help without being told, and who helps no matter who is watching or even if no one is watching. These students are honored at their end of school award assembly in front of their classmates and parents. The child’s parents are invited to the stage to help with the presentation. The nomination letter is read aloud and presented to the parents. They receive 2 certificates and are told how important these types of awards are when making their portfolio when they are seniors. Then they receive a medallion and are invited to ride on the Kiwanis Citizenship Float in the Belton July 4th parade. That usually excites them more than anything else!
Kiwanis Club of Belton Citizenship awards Submitted by Rhonda Hershey
Creating massive impact one project at a time.
On September 16th, we had the pleasure of hosting our first annual Homecoming Dance for Sweetwater High School. This particular event has not been held for various reasons in three years. We had a turn out of approximately two hundred students from our highschool. Local venders such as Domino"s, Pizza Hut, and Biggs Pizza contributed pizza and the fixings. Our local Walmart provided the drinks. The music was provided by our very own Chris Gomez ( a very talented DJ). This was a testament to our city in that we only had two weeks to plan the event. Our local police department, medics, and chaperones did a marvelous job of keeping us safe. We are now looking forward to doing this again next year.
A Look at Clubs
70th Anniversary
Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene Celebrates 70 years! Submitted by Gail Jay
A 70th Platinum Anniversary for the Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene was held on Thursday, August 25, 2022, at the Beehive Restaurant in downtown Abilene. The room was filled with members and guests who gathered to celebrate the accomplishments of their past seventy years of service to children. Mayor Anthony Williams declared August 26, 2022 as “Kiwanis International Day” for the Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene to mark their anniversary. This club has evolved through the merger of six clubs over the years. Gail Jay, Committee Chairperson, read a letter from Lt. Gov. Randy Roewe, congratulating our club on our seventy years of service. She cited the history of how the Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene evolved through the years. In addition, past recipients of various awards—Tablet of Honor, George Hixon, Legion of Honor, C. T. Bush, Layperson of the Year, Lowell Perry Award, Walter Zeller Award, and Joe Marshall Kiwanian of the Year Award, were recognized. Past and present officers of the TX-OK District and the Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene were also asked to stand. It takes “everyone in Kiwanis” to make this an outstanding club. Joe Marshall was also recognized for having served as Distinguished T-O Governor and Distinguished Lt. Gov. during the years. It was also noted that during his membership, he established eighteen clubs! During our celebration, awards were given by TX-OK Governor Brad McKenzie to outstanding members. Joe Marshall received his 65-year Legion of Honor Award, Harlan Owen received a 50-year Legion of Honor, and Lyndel Cook received the 35-year Legion of Honor. Nancy Baker was awarded the George Hixon Award. The following members were recognized for recruiting members: Lyndel Cook, Darrin Cox, Shelley Drennan, Gail Jay, and Joey Parker. They received a “BE” pin earlier in April from the Governor. In addition, Jennifer Eames, Larry Folwell, and Tom McAlister were present to receive their pins. Jennifer Hass, David Miller, and Angela Nicolini were unable to be present, but were recognized as well. Cameo Harvey gave an overview of the “John Landers Partners-In-Education Program.” This is a partnership with Abilene schools—Long Early Childhood Learning Center and Stafford Elementary—which meets the needs of underserved children in our community. Throughout the year, we provided coats, shoes, clothes, socks, underwear, and school supplies to these students in need. Debbie Taubert, counselor, and Melissa Scott, principal of Stafford Elementary, spoke of their heartfelt appreciation for all of our work. Jenny Putnam, Retired Principal of Long Early Learning Center, talked about the value of service and how it has impacted students as well as teachers and staff. We have provided pull-ups, socks, underwear, and stuffed animals for Christmas baskets and teacher appreciation breakfasts and lunches. After all, teachers and staff are the backbone of schools every day. It’s the little things that keep them “pumped up” as they meet the daily educational needs of children. In addition, we support the McKinney-Vento program for identified homeless children by providing fleece blankets, backpacks, and school supplies, as well as underwear, socks, and coats. President Steven Leggett gave a brief summary of our past 64 years of Chili Day & Silent Auction. Due to failing equipment, the cost of meat (buying 2,000 + pounds), and other factors brought about by COVID-19, we transitioned from serving chili to playing golf. Our profits from each of the past five years of Chili Day were $22,000. The first “Kids Need Kiwanis” Golf Tournament brought in a profit of $45,000! The second tournament was a $58,000 profit! All of this money is used to support the children of Abilene. Without the support of local businesses and volunteers, this fundraiser would not have been as successful as it has been. We are truly blessed with a giving community! With the motto of “serving the children of the world”, we decided to “make a difference” in a bigger way. Our members voted to designate $25,000 as our anniversary gift to City Square-Abilene. This is a drop-off center that is dedicated to providing teen students a safe place to come after school. They will be given a a snack, a meal, and a safe place to get counseling, tutoring for schoolwork, and meet friends. This project is in the development stage. Ben Siburt and Carrin Ezzell presented a video of their summer program, detailing the effects it has had on teens. President Steven presented both of them with a $25,000 check! Before closing the meeting, Gail Jay read her poem, “70th Anniversary of Kiwanis.” A copy was given to each attendee with a Kiwanis key chain flashlight so that when things seem dark, they could shed a light from Kiwanis to guide their way. President Steven thanked everyone for attending and recognized the committee for a job well done! We look forward to seeing what the next seventy years have in store for the Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene!
Poem distributed at 70th Anniversary event. 70th Anniversary of Kiwanis By Gail Jay We come today to celebrate, And reflect back on the past; Throughout these past seventy years, Our members made our friendships last. We’ve built a bond like family; We laugh; we serve; we share; We help out children all the time, Because we all still care. Clothes, shoes, socks, and underwear, Are things which we provide; We make a challenge to buy coats, To keep kids warm when it’s cold outside. We offer scholarships each year, To those who are in need; It’s meant to honor and to help, And recognize a student’s deeds. Throughout these years we’ve earned our funds, With help from all of you; We had Chili Day sixty-four years; Then, we questioned what to do? So, golf became our focus; We’ve held a tournament two years; And it has been successful, Even with the bittersweet tears. It broke a long tradition, Of something from the past; But during the pandemic, We could not do the task. Our goal is helping children; In everything we do; We even help non-profits, We know their needs are true. So, help us now to celebrate, And join in on our fun; We couldn’t do this by ourselves, Because in Kiwanis—we need everyone!
At the September 20 GISD School Board Meeting, five members of the GHS Key Club (KC) received awards from the Presidential Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) Program. These KC members did voluntary service during the 21/22 school year and documented their service hours to meet the requirements of the program to receive one of three awards; Bronze, Silver, or Gold. Each award consisted of a letter from President Joe Biden stressing the importance of volunteers to this country and thanking them for their service, a certificate for their award, and a challenge coin. Shown in the picture are Lizzie Cavett, Bronze, Ian Kowalczyk, Silver, Noah Daugherty, Gold, Mari Wilcock, Silver, and Savannah Wardlow, Gold. Congratulating these students, on the second row, left to right, are Natalie Mougia, Greenville High School (GHS) Faculty Advisor; Aletha Kruse, GISD School Board President; Pat Penland, Greenville Golden Kiwanis (GGK) President; Patricia Wedel, PVSA Administrator for GGK; Pat Bowman, GGK Key Club Advisor; and the Superintendent of the Greenville Independent School District, Sharon Boothe.
Greenville Golden Kiwanis Presidential Volunteer service award Submitted by Pat Bowman
United to Build
Submitted by Cynthia Bentley
The local Noon Kiwanis club, with assistance from the Lion’s club, helped to build a ramp for a local Hopkins County resident this past weekend. The two organizations came together to provide mobility for this resident that will hopefully help to allow her to make it to doctor’s appointments, explore the outside, and just over all give her the ability to leave her home. This ramp build was made possible by the Texas Ramps Project. The Texas Ramp Project has a yearly budget of around 2 million dollars, which they use to purchase supplies and to help increase the mobility of Texans across the state. The majority of their funds are donated via grants and large corporate sponsors. They rely on organizations such as the Kiwanis and Lion’s Club to provide the labor for putting up the ramps, helping reduce the cost associated with installation. A ramp, for many individuals, equates to freedom. The freedom to leave their home, see the doctor and friends, or just the freedom to be outside the confines of a building. For many, without the assistance of a ramp, would be more likely to end up in a care facility. Since the inception of the Texas Ramps program in June of 2006, they have built over 1,400 ramps, equating to over 100 miles. Donations can be made for future ramps at https://donorbox.org/texasrampgeneralcampaign. All applications for a ramp must be submitted through a doctor’s office or home health service, to verify the need of the resident requesting a ramp. Once the request has been accepted, a site review of the location will take place, and then the ramp will be built shortly after. If you know someone in need of a ramp, please have them reach out to their doctor to make a request. The Kiwanis and Lions Clubs are looking forward to helping other Hopkins County residents increase their mobility in the coming months. They hope to work together to streamline the process by prefabricating the 8x4 and 4x4 sections ahead of time to make installation faster. By consolidating efforts the groups hope to be able to help more residents. If you would like to volunteer to help in the next ramp building project please reach out to the Noon Kiwanis Club for more information, Dave Froneberger is the president and can be reached at david.froneberger@gmail.com. “Whatever my individual desires were to be free, I was not alone.” - Rosa Parks.
Kyle Buda Kiwanis Club Doc Mc Stuffins visits Hemphill Elementary School Submitted by Cynthia Bentley
The Kyle Buda Kiwanis Club kicked off another successful "Bikes for Books" reading program at Hemphill Elementary School. The 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students were entertained by Doc Mc Stuffins (Kiwanian Dr. Vanessa Westbrook). Dr. Westbrook got the students excited with a reading for the students to start their "Wonderful World" of reading! Each student will receive a NEW BOOK, to start their reading adventure toward winning a new bike and safety gear! The bike (s) and safety gear will be awarded on December 9th at Hemphill Elementary School. This is Kyle Buda Kiwanis' 3rd year giving new books to the students at Hemphill Elementary School in the "Bikes for Books" reading program.
School Year
2021-2022
2020-2021*
Participating Schools
# of Items
Value
AISD Elementary
9198
6754 US$
3162
Jr. High
4129
2024 US$
AISD Total
13327
8777 US$
MISD
4302
2467 US$
Arlington Total
17629
11244 US$
FT Worth
359
258 US$
Total All Schools
17988
11502 US$
2432 US$
7152
4280 US$
* AISD was severely affected by COVID.
2019-2020
The Kiwanis Club of Houston held a golf tournament earlier in the summer and just last month presented the check to Texas Children’s Hospital for over $26,000.
On Saturday morning, September 10, members of the Kiwanis Club of Belton joined with the Belton Lions Club and the Belton Rotary Club to clean the banks of Nolan Creek. This is a popular area between the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor and Yettie Polk Park where many activities take place, including the Kiwanis Turtle Festival. More than 20 large bags of garbage were collected with such items as bottles, soda/beer cans, construction netting, various shoes, bottles, a plastic tarp, and things too numerous to list. Unofficially, Kiwanian Roo Hutchins discovered the grossest find: a dead duck that was in advanced stages of decomposition! It was a great opportunity for the local service organizations to work together and give back to our community!
At the beginning of the 2021-2022 school year, KCA joined with School Supply Squad in an attempt to augment their capability and set a goal of reaching all “at risk” students in Arlington, TX elementary and Jr. High schools. School Supply Squad (SSS) was formed by Trinity United Methodist Church, and was supported by individual donations by the congregants. SSS stocked 30 standard elementary school items, and each month relied on school counselors to identify students who could not afford to purchase their own supplies and consolidate the school’s needs, and with 8 volunteers delivered each school’s requests. Some schools were covered by local benefactor churches, and for several years SSS was able to call on 30 elementary schools and supply the needs of around 20 schools. With the basic infrastructure in place, Kiwanis conferred with SSS to determine how the two child oriented entities could join forces to reach out to all Title 1 elementary, plus add Jr. High, schools physically located in Arlington - 66 schools in total. Training volunteers, and contacting and coordinating with schools we knew would take more than one year, so Kiwanis provided 6 volunteers and sufficient funds to reach all 66 schools before the end of the second school year, expecting a relationship and care with an estimated 50 schools. For the 2021-2022 school year we contacted 58 schools, and received requests from 38. The chart above represents what was accomplished in 2021-2022 with Kiwanis compared to previous years. Of course, 2020-21 was a terrible year of disruption for schools, however, the annual average for years to and including 2019-2020 was 7500 to 8000 items supplied. Kiwanis volunteers contacting and delivering to Arlington schools include Laura Arnhart, Larry James, Jeremy Normand, Russ Hagan, Dave Turney, Don Henderson, and Jim Burgess.
The Mineola Kiwanis Club took advantage of an offer from Kiwanis International to receive a free farmstand from the Lettuce Grow Company. The Farmstand is a self-watering, self-fertilizing hydroponic system that grows plants in nutrient-enriched water without soil. Since Mineola Middle School has an active outdoor classroom, the Farmstand was a perfect gift for the students to learn about hydroponics. Pictured putting the stand together are Past President Roy Shockey, Beth Shockey and Art Gould. Other Kiwanians are Joyce Curry and President Becky Moore, along with science teacher Susan Witt and Middle School Science students.
Greenville Golden Kiwanis Ramp Building Submitted by Pat Bowman
Kiwanis Club of Houston Charitable Donation Submitted by Robert Lee
Kiwanis Club of Arlington School Supply Squad Submitted by Jim Burgess
Texas Oklahoma Kiwanis Flood Bucket List with Estimated Pricing based on 2021 price lists The following list is created from other online lists such as the Salvation Army, United Methodist Church, Lutheran Church, and prior Kiwanis disaster relief efforts within the TX OK District. Prices in bold text are cost of item per bucket. 5-Gallon Container with Lid – (from Lowes or Home Depot) 5.00 for the bucket and 2.50 for the lid. 7.50 Empty Spray Bottle (to mix bleach and water) – 32oz plastic spray bottle –2.00 each Paper towels › (2 Rolls per bucket) – 6-count packages for 5.38 / package -1.79 Disposable rags › (6 rags / bucket) (Lowes) Proline Paint Rags 12 pack for 4.48 2.24 Glass cleaner › Tru Grit Glass Cleaner 26oz 2.55 each N95 particulate and dust masks > (2 / bucket)A 10-pack at Lowes is 24.48 4.89 Liquid Dish Soap > Dawn 28oz bottle from HEB, 4.37 Liquid Laundry Soap > All brand Free and Clear, HEB, 8.21 Liquid cleaner › (1 bottle / bucket) Fabuloso Lemon Liquid Multi-purpose cleaner, 56oz, 2.76each Bleach (1-gallon size) › H-E-B Bravo Low Splash Concentrated Regular Bleach, 43oz. 2.27 each Scrub brush › Utility Brush, 3.57 each Two pairs of rubber gloves › (Men’s Large) From H-E-B, Reusable Latex Gloves, Large, 1.51 OR….purchase a box of 100 gloves for 12.34 – Hill Country Essentials Disposable Vinyl Gloves Fit All. 50 cents for 4 gloves. Sponge(s) › (3 / bucket)H-E-B Heavy Duty NYLON Scrubber Sponge , 9 pack, 6.17 each pack.2.05 (Optional) broom and/or mop -H‑E‑B Large Cotton Deck Mop –5.12each 5 Contractor size trash bags – 55 gallon, 20 count, 12.24 / roll (39 gallon bags work great too if you can’t find the contractor size. Contractor bags are generally thicker and more heavy duty)3.06 Total (includes cost of bucket and a mop) for above purchased through HEB and Lowes, 53.33 per bucket based on 2021 pricing. Adjust for inflation. Skip the mop and get the bucket donated and save about 12.50 / kit.
Disaster Relief: FLood Buckets Submitted by Marshall Kregel
The Texas Oklahoma Disaster Relief program supports the distribution of flood buckets to homes that have been devastated by flooding from storms, tornadoes, and hurricanes. What are flood buckets? Flood buckets are buckets or bucket-like containers filled with supplies to assist with clean up after a natural disaster, specifically one resulting in flooding. We have filled these buckets and carried them to homes along the Texas coast as well as to communities in Louisiana after Hurricane Iris. This is an awesome program for families that have come home to flood damage and must clean their floors and walls. In many cases, they don’t have access to local resources because the stores have suffered the same damage. It is quite possible to get community support to help fill the buckets in advance of any emergency. The Rowlett Target Store donated a gift card to the Rowlett Kiwanis Club to help fill these buckets and even received donations from other Kiwanis clubs! Christ wrote: "Shout out to Matt Dalton, Store Manager at the Rowlet Home Depot, who provided 20 buckets that will be filled with cleaning supplies as part of our Disaster Relief Service Project preparation. It’s because of great community partners that we’re able to serve the needs of people in our communities." For more information about the Disaster Relief Program in the TX OK Kiwanis District, contact Marshall Kregel, Disaster Relief Chair, at mkregel@hotmail.com Attached is a sample supply list for flood buckets. Prices on the list fluctuate from store to store, and it may be that you are able to find some great discounted items at the dollar stores.
Large 8.5 x 11 labels for the flood buckets. These are printed in portrait mode so as to not cover up the Home Depot logo on the buckets. Home Depot donated the buckets to the North East Dallas County Kiwanis Club (Rowlett). The labels were purchased directly from Amazon.
Incoming Rowlett club President, Chris Bunkoff, asked for a bucket donation from the local Home Depot.
Worry not, my friends! While visiting Minneapolis in the summer, you needn't worry about snow drifts higher than your house or winds that rival T-O tornadoes. Instead, you can expect moderate weather and plenty of fun, whether outside or in. Families seeking hands-on learning should book tickets to the Science Museum of Minneapolis. Art lovers can visit the Minneapolis Institute of Art or wander through the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. If you love spending time outside, plan to take a hike around Minnehaha Falls, right there in the city. For those of you who get a thrill out of diving up and down on a rollercoaster, the greater Minneapolis area is home to the Valleyfair amusement park as well as the Mall of America. That's right, guys! While your wives enjoy four floors of shopping, you can duck into the Nickelodeon Universe. You'll get to hang out with friends from Texas-Oklahoma who you might only see once a year at DCON and become acquainted with prospective friends from all over the U.S. and around the globe. We'll learn the latest from KI about service, fundraising, and membership. We'll hear from motivational speakers, including the Key Club and Circle K International Presidents. This convention will take place June 21-24, 2023. Mark your calendar now!
Governor Patrick McCage appoints Adrian Thompson to lead Texas Oklahoma Key Club District.
Why We're Excited about ICON 2023 Submitted by Courtney Fallway
Adrian Thompson to Lead District Key Clubs
As my term comes to its end, I reflect back on my year as president of the Kiwanis Club of Texarkana and wish I had known at the start what I know now. There were many things I should have done differently, but it is the hard lessons learned, more than the accomplishments, that define us as officers and leaders within our club. While I realize each club is unique, having different goals and purposes, I wanted to share the lessons I learned and what worked for us as a club over this past year, in hopes that it will bring encouragement, and perhaps inspiration to an incoming president in the same position I was in just one year ago. 1. Increase your club’s name recognition within the community. My number one goal at the beginning of the year was to increase our awareness and recognition in the community. I wanted people to see us and to know who the Kiwanis Club of Texarkana was. So, we started out by having our first float in the annual Christmas parade. This was scary for us because we had never done anything like this before. Our float was not the best, but it was a start. We immediately began planning for this year, which we hope will be nothing short of spectacular. When there was a city-wide chili cook-off, we entered it because it gave us an opportunity to display our banners and signs and to pass out brochures. We entered not one, but two teams in the local spelling bee. Although we didn’t win - which was upsetting because we have a very competitive bunch - we had our picture in the local newspaper not once, but twice, wearing our Kiwanis t-shirts. My club put its foot down, however, when it came to the hot dog eating contest. By actively seeking out opportunities for involvement, we have increased our recognition within the community. These activities were also fun, promoted comradery, and built lasting friendships between our members. 2. Increase your service. My second goal for the year was to increase our service projects. We discovered that people want to do more service. The more service we did, the more visitors we had at our weekly meetings, which meant more new members coming into the club. This was an unexpected consequence. We had people showing up wanting to join our club simply because they had seen what we were doing in the community and wanted to be a part of our organization. This became an amazing cycle - the more service we did, the more the community noticed, which meant more new members. More new members created more excitement, which led to more service. If you want to increase your membership, increase your service. Give people a reason and a “purpose” to join. 3. Make the meetings fun and enjoyable. I found that when visitors came to a meeting where everyone was laughing and enjoying themselves, they were more likely to want to come back, and so were the members. As the one responsible for conducting the meeting, the president can play a huge role in setting the overall tone. In years past, our club’s weekly meeting was largely conducted by the president, which can be mundane, and yes - BORING. I tried to change that up by involving as many members as possible in the meeting. This year we had “James’ Corner” on the program each week, which allowed our president-elect to talk about all of the upcoming service projects and ways for members to get involved. Finding ways to make each meeting fun will be different for each club. However, if you find that your meetings are boring, don’t hesitate to change it up, and involve more members. We are not required to continue doing things the way they’ve always been done. 4. Show your club that you care. Caring comes from actions, not words. I quickly discovered that there was more to being president than simply being the one in charge. For example, if your club is anything like ours, you probably have a secretary that is used to doing most, if not all, of the work. It can be easy for a president to let them do that. After all, its what they’ve always done, and you’re the president. I was determined to do whatever I could to change that. The club notices these things more than you realize and it shows them that you care. Being a president is not hard, but being a “good” president is the toughest job you will ever have, at least it was for me. To be a caring president requires putting in long hours each week behind the scenes - out of the spotlight. It requires being the first one to the meeting to make sure everything is set up perfectly, and being the last one to leave. It’s the little things that matter the most, but the little things quickly add up. I was not always the president I should have been, but each member of my club knew I truly cared. 5. Be on the lookout for future leaders. A good president should always be on the lookout for potential leaders within the club and groom them for future service by giving them assignments and tasks. Most of the time, they will show themselves quickly, but there are others who simply need a little encouragement and prodding. 6. Be willing to listen to your members. Being president, especially for a large club like ours, requires having good mediation skills. It demands patience and understanding, and most importantly, a willingness to listen to the viewpoints and concerns of others. I realized quickly that being the president didn’t mean being the one “in charge” or the one who decides what should be done. The club is made up of many volunteers who are giving up their time and energy to be there and participate. A good president should be willing to listen to each of them, and to remember always that he or she is their servant.. 7. Always listen to your secretary. Just do it. There isn’t much more that needs to be said here. Our club is lucky enough to have not one, but two, secretaries. When they gave me advice, and they often did, I said, “Yes ma’am.” 8. Rely heavily on your president-elect. My president-elect has been my closest confidant and best friend over the past year. We have laughed together, wrung our hands together, celebrated successes together, and have had each other’s back the entire way. Knowing that he would eventually be taking my place, he was as nervous and excited as I was. While he was there to learn what it would mean to be president someday, we were actually both learning together. I believe this closeness between the president and president elect is important to the future success of any club. 9. Remain actively involved as past president. After a long, grueling year as president, retirement sounds really tempting right now, although I know there is much left to be done. Becoming president shouldn’t be an “initiation process” one must go through alone in order to earn their stripes. It would seem to me that all former presidents should be doing everything possible to ensure the success of the current one. That’s why I’ve asked our incoming president to put me in charge of the membership committee this year, which will provide me the opportunity to continue working towards that endeavor and to provide needed assistance to my successor. I often remember the words of Nelson Mandela, “Do not judge me by my success, but judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.” There have been many things I’ve tried throughout the year that didn’t work. Each time something failed, I would find my way back to the drawing board, talk with my officers, and run things by the board to come up with something new. “We’ve always done it this way” is a phrase I will dismiss quickly. I prefer instead, “Why don’t we try something completely different, even crazy?” You will be surprised how something “crazy” can lead to something “wonderful.” I wish for all of you a happy and successful year. Monty Murry, President, Kiwanis Club of Texarkana Lt. Gov., Division 13 Awarded Outstanding Club President, TX-OK District, 2022.
LESSONS LEARNED FROM MY YEAR AS PRESIDENT Submitted by Monty Murry
SEE YOU IN GRANBURY, TEXAS! AUGUST 2023
KI Notes submissions can be emailed to txokkiwanis@gmail.com.
Month
Division
Club
Name
August
Greater Randolph Area
Jan Senecal
30
South Oklahoma City
Carl Sullivan
Carol Ross
23
Temple
James Mohler
September
1
Cleburne
Gerald Kiel
21
Ada Diamond K
Mike Cook
34
Hide-A-Way Lake
Grady Kitchens
Fort Worth Golden K
James Grissel
19
Bethany
Grant Keeton
October
San Antonio Army Residence Community Golden K
Lewis Jamison
James Rhone
Brownwood
Bill Carpenter
Harold Lockwood
All listed with sympathy and memory.
In Loving Memory
“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.” -Richard Puz
Texas Oklahoma Kiwanis District Editor's Message Evelyn Herrera
Hello Fellow Kiwanians, I want to thank everyone who has shared their stories for publication this last year. These articles really showcase the power of Kiwanis. Now that we have entered a new year I really want to encourage all clubs to share their stories. Whether its your first article in years or you send in one every issue, all articles are welcome. This year you can even gain bonus points towards Distinguished Club recognition by submitting articles! There are many free websites and tools that can help you compose an article. From Word to Google Docs and Grammarly to Quill Bot, the world is your oyster for article creation. Aside from KI Notes articles perhaps your club may find themselves writing up their very own club newsletter. Remember, with a new year comes new opportunities. Take this time to reinvent your club or spruce up a favorite program. Change can be scary, but it is also exciting! Best of luck to all the new leaders and shout out to the members sticking it out another year!