KI-NOTES
OCTOBER 2026 (Issue NO. 49)
A Publication of the Texas-Oklahoma District of Kiwanis International
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Editorial
4 Governor's Message & Bio 6 26-27 Motto 8 26-27 Vision 10 26-27 Distinguished Criteria 12 26-27 Elite Leader 14 26-27 District Leadership 16 A Look at Clubs 28 Youth Protection 29 Gov. Visit Update 30 Key Club News & Charters 32 Key Leader 34 CKI Update 38 DCON 39 In Loving Memory 41 Helpful Links 42 Editor's Message
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: Marty Mullins Contributing Writers: John Callison, John Cano, lyndel cook, Tinh-An Ha, Susan Hennum, Evelyn Herrera, Scott Kilian, Marty Mullins, Monty Murry, Chelsie Phifer, Kelly Poland, Glenda Rast, Brian Walker, Patty Wininger, Crystal Yates
texas oklahoma district
Texas Oklahoma Kiwanis District Governor's Message Martin "Marty" Mullins
Welcome to the new Kiwanis year! I am honored and excited to welcome each of you to another year of service, leadership, fellowship, and impact and to promote this year’s motto “Service Without Borders” across the Texas-Oklahoma District. This is more than the beginning of a new administrative year—it is the beginning of a new opportunity to make a difference. Every club, every member, every project, and every act of service matters. Together, we have the ability to strengthen our communities, inspire the next generation, and demonstrate what happens when Kiwanians work together with a common purpose. Our district is filled with passionate leaders and dedicated volunteers. From the largest cities to the smallest communities, the spirit of Kiwanis is alive because of you. The M&M Team is back, and we have a group of outstanding leaders in place to assist the clubs in the Mighty T-O District. If you want to be a leader, contact the M&M Team, me, or Governor-Elect Thom. Thom and I are a team and here to serve your district. We’ve started an Elite Leader designation for our outstanding leaders. We have also launched a new website with a fresh look, and we continue to update it. Please take a look, as it offers a lot of information and can probably answer any questions that you have, including the Distinguished Requirements and the Elite Leader Requirements. Let’s make this a year where we reach beyond our usual boundaries, build stronger connections between our clubs and communities, and remember that service knows no borders. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside you, and I look forward to the journey ahead. Let’s make it a year to remember. In Service, Marty Mullins District Governor 2026-2027 Texas-Oklahoma District of Kiwanis International
I was born in Memphis, TN, moved to Texas at the age of 6, and grew up in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. My Kiwanis adventure started when I was invited by my banker to a Kiwanis Club of Cedar Creek Lake meeting in September of 2009. After attending the meeting and seeing what the club was about, I joined and was elected Club President-Elect for the 2010-2011 year. I served on the Kiwanis Club of Cedar Creek Lake’s Board of Directors for fifteen years, chairing several project committees; served as President twice, President-Elect twice, and Interim President twice; served as Division 26 Lieutenant Governor for three terms; and served as Region 7 Piney Woods Trustee for four years, District Governor-Elect, and presently as your District Governor. I’ve been honored as a Distinguished Member, a Distinguished President, a Distinguished Lieutenant Governor, a Walter Zeller Presidential Fellow, a George F. Hixson Fellow, a Gary Hicks Award recipient, a Kiwanian of the Year twice, and a CKI Legacy Fund Patron. When not taking care of Kiwanis business or working, I volunteer in my community. I’m presently serving as the Chair of the Cedar Creek Lake Area Chamber of Commerce (GBC/Mabank/Tool/Seven Points/Kemp/Malakoff/Eustace/Trinidad); Chamber Ambassadors Vice President and Chair and/or committee member on all Chamber events; Chair of the Gun Barrel City Chamber Chapter; President of the Board of Directors for the Library at Cedar Creek Lake in Seven Points, TX; Board Member of the Cedar Creek Lake Literacy Board (Dolly Parton Imagination Library) and a member of the Cedar Creek Lake Parrot Head Club. I have served as chair for the Gun Barrel City Planning & Zoning Commission, chair for the Gun Barrel City Board of Adjustments, and vice chair of the City of Gun Barrel City Ordinance Review Committee. I’ve been married 29 years to his wife, Anne, and have two grown daughters, Melissa and Krystal, along with four grandchildren. After 35 years in the engineering industry, I sold my part of the business, and along with Anne, who is an architect, I started TexasAbility, LLC, where we perform plan reviews and site inspections for compliance with the Texas Accessibility Standards. I also volunteer with several industry organizations, including serving as the vice president of the Illuminating Engineering Society in Fort Worth, TX; Texas Chapter Board Member of the International Association of Electrical Inspectors in Irving, TX; membership chair; and Texas Representative on the Southern Section Board (11 States) of the International Association of Electrical Inspectors in Alabama and on the Legal & Legislative Committee for the Accessibility Professionals Association in Austin, TX. I’m excited to continue my Kiwanis journey as governor for 2026-2027.
Our motto for this upcoming year is:
Service Without Borders
To me, those three words mean far more than crossing state lines. They remind us that service knows no boundaries. It reaches beyond geography, beyond generations, beyond cultures, beyond backgrounds, and beyond differences. It calls us to work together, to share ideas, to support one another, and to recognize that every act of kindness has the power to change a life. "Service Without Borders" also means removing barriers within our own organization. It means experienced members welcoming new members with open arms. It means clubs partnering with neighboring clubs. It means divisions learning from one another. It means our service leadership programs and Kiwanis clubs are working side by side to develop the next generation of leaders. Together, we are stronger than any one club or individual. My commitment is simple. I will listen. I will encourage collaboration. I will celebrate innovation while honoring our traditions. I will visit the regions throughout our district because every club matters, every member matters, and every community we serve matters. I hope this year we will focus on three priorities. First, let us grow. Not simply by opening new clubs or adding members, but by inviting people to become part of something meaningful. Every new member brings fresh ideas, new energy, and additional opportunities to serve. Second, let us strengthen our clubs. Healthy clubs create lasting impact. By investing in leadership development, member engagement, and fellowship, we ensure that Kiwanis remains strong. Third, let us expand our impact through "Service Without Borders." Let us look beyond what we've always done and ask what more we can do together. Whether partnering with neighboring clubs, supporting disaster relief, strengthening our youth programs, or responding to community needs, our willingness to work together will multiply the difference we make. I do not see myself as someone standing in front of this district. I see myself as someone walking beside you. Leadership in Kiwanis is not about titles. It is about service. It is about encouraging others, lifting one another up, and helping every member discover the joy that comes from making a difference. I ask each of you to join me in embracing our motto. Let us make "Service Without Borders" more than a theme for one year. Let it become the way we approach every project, every partnership, every meeting, and every opportunity to serve. Together, let us strengthen our clubs, inspire new leaders, invest in our youth, and build communities where every child has the opportunity to succeed. Let’s continue to serve with compassion, lead with integrity, and demonstrate every day that there truly are no limits to Service Without Borders. Marty Mullins District Governor 2026-2027 Texas-Oklahoma District of Kiwanis International
"This theme is more than a slogan. It is a commitment. A commitment to grow beyond limits, to lead with purpose, and to serve with impact." - Marty Mullins
The Vision 2026-2027
Membership Build 10 new clubs including 2 Kiwanis Voices Clubs in the District: Work with Lt. governor to locate possible sites. Build a team for each build including members of the sponsoring club, Lt. governor, trustee, club openers, and club coach. Focus on Strengthening and Growing Existing Clubs Ensure club officers have the tools and resources to succeed. Ensure the club membership chair and team are aware of the resources available. Strengthen mentorship for new Kiwanians. Challenge each member to bring in one new member. Challenge each club to end the Kiwanis year with positive membership numbers of 3 new members. Provide club support via Lt. governors, club coaches, and other district and international resources. Leadership Development Focus on Education: Provide adequate Lt. governor training. Define Lt. governor and trustee roles. Ensure club officers and chairs are trained. Encourage Lt. governors, trustees, and club leaders to train as club openers and club coaches. Encourage Lt. governors and trustees to train as club leadership education (CLE) trainers. Encourage Lt. governors, trustees, and club leaders to attend the T-O District Convention (and Kiwanis International Convention when possible). Provide Regional training to assist clubs in marketing, membership, project, and fundraising ideas, etc. Focus on Engagement: Encourage Lt. governors to engage with their counterparts in Circle K and Key Club and participate in their conventions. Encourage clubs to participate inter-clubs and the exchange of ideas. Encourage clubs to partner with other clubs and assist with service projects, fundraisers, and club openings even if it’s outside of your division or region. Service Impact Encourage clubs to create a new service project for 2026-2027. Encourage clubs to start at least 1 Service Leadership Program or a BUGS and Terrific Kids program. Encourage clubs to support the T-O Foundation, Kiwanis Children’s Fund, Women in Kiwanis, and Circle K & Key Club conventions. Encourage clubs to participate in or support the Disaster Relief Program effort. Communication and Connection Encourage open communication between divisions and between divisions and district leadership. Encourage and foster a teamwork mentality through-out the district. Encourage each club to develop a signature project that promotes Kiwanis in their community.
Service Perform a community assessment to see if your projects are still relevant. 5 points Sponsor at least one new Service Leadership Program or adopt an orphan club. 15 points Submit a Signature Project to district and international competition. 10 points Participate in the Texas-Oklahoma Sophomore of the Year scholarship. 5 points Education Club leadership (president, secretary, treasurer, membership chair) has completed the latest Club Leadership Education training. 10 points Youth Protection Guidelines are presented to ALL club members. 10 points 100% of club members and any advisors have approved background checks. 5 points Club provides new member orientation for all new members. 5 points Club is represented at the Governor’s Regional Meeting. 10 points Club is represented at 100% of all of their division council meetings. 10 points Club is represented at the district convention. 10 points Club is represented at the international convention. 15 points Club participates in 6 interclub meetings. 5 points Growth Sponsor or co-sponsor a new Kiwanis or Voices Club. 15 points Join your local chamber of commerce. 5 points Club has a net gain in membership of at least 3 members by the end of the administrative year. 15 points Submit a membership plan to the District Membership & Engagement Coordinator. 10 points Publicly promote your signature project/fundraiser or other projects within your community. 5 points Complete and submit all 12 monthly reports on Engage. 10 points Submit incoming officers and membership chair on Engage by June 1. 10 points Contributions Contribute $5 ($10 preferred) per member to the Kiwanis International Children’s Fund. 5 points Contribute $10 per member to the Texas-Oklahoma Foundation. 10 points Honor someone with a C. T, Bush Award, Gary Hicks Award, or Women in Kiwanis Award. 10 points Contribute towards sending a Key Club member or Circle K member to convention or training. 5 points Provide a Key Club or Circle K convention or training conference sponsorship. 5 points
TX-OK Kiwanis District Distinguished Criteria 2026-2027
Click to view bonus points!
Clubs must a accumulate at least 100 points to qualify. Clubs will be recognized at the 2028 District Convention.
KI Distinguished Criteria
This is open to any trustee, Lt. governor, committee chair, district leader, or club member. The following must be met: Attend and complete the training for their position. Attend and complete Club Opening & Strengthening training. Become certified. Attend and complete Club Coach training. Become certified. Attend and complete Club Leadership Education training. Become certified. Participate in at least 1 club opening or club boost. The governor or governor-elect may recognize an individual as an Elite Leader for going above and beyond their regular duties for good of the district.
Contact TX-OK
Member & CLE Training
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Individuals will be recognized at the 2028 District Convention.
District E-Library
TX-OK Kiwanis District Elite Leader 2026-2027
Youth Protection
Forms & Reports
Position
Name
Contact
Club
District Governor
Marty Mullins
Cedar Creek Lake, TX
District Governor-Elect
Thomas Callaway
Paris, TX
Immediate Past District Governor
John Cano
Silicon Hills – Austin, TX
District Secretary
Al Richard
Baytown, TX
District Treasurer
Crystal Yates
Mansfield, TX
Trustee – Region 1 (Term end: 2027)
Randy McDaniel
Allen, TX
Trustee – Region 2 (Term end: 2028)
Bryan Matthys
Huntsville, TX
Trustee – Region 3 (Term end: 2029)
Mendell Morgan
Greater Randolph Area
Trustee – Region 4 (Term end: 2027)
Dr. Mark Crouch
West Angelo – San Angelo, TX
Trustee – Region 5 (Term end: 2027)
Kameron Klement
Gainesville, TX
Trustee – Region 6 (Term end: 2028)
David McCaghren
Greater Abilene – Abilene, TX
Trustee – Region 7 (Term end: 2027)
Sherry Dupre-Bridges
Quitman/Lake Fork, TX
Trustee – Region 8 (Term end: 2029)
Ralph Keen
Stillwell, OK
Trustee – Region 9 (Term end: 2029)
Eugene Ray
Wayne, OK
Trustee – Region 10 (Term end: 2028)
Rhonda Hershey
Harker Heights, TX
Division
Region
26
7
32
5
24
10
3
2
39
1
1 – Metroplex
9
2 – Bayou Bunch
3 – South Texas
12
4 – Panhandle Plains
8
5 – Red River
35
6 – Big Country
34
7 – Piney Woods
25
8 – Northern Outpost
30
9 – Heartland
23
10 – Hill Country
Website
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To get in touch with a member of the district, fill out a contact form.
To view more of the district leadership team, please click the button below.
Leadership
Contact Form
Links
TX-OK Kiwanis District Leadership 2026-2027
Long-time Greater Abilene Kiwanian, Joe Marshall, celebrated his 101st birthday on September 12th! Joe has been a member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene for 69 years. His daughter Julie Neill, pictured with Joe, is also a Kiwanian. Joe has held several positions in the club and the Texas-Oklahoma District. Joe has served as the Texas-Oklahoma governor twice! He has served as Lt. Governor, President, and board member. He also served on many committees. His awards include the Walter Zeller Fellowship, George Hixson Fellowship, C.T. Bush Award, Kiwanian of the Year (1972-73), Layperson of the Year, and the Lowell Perry Award (given in honor of Greater Abilene Kiwanian Lowell Perry). He was even the top seller of the club's Chili Day tickets, selling more than 2,500 tickets each year. One of the awards that the club presents each year is the Joe Marshall Kiwanian of the Year Award. In 2012, the club renamed the award from Kiwanian of the Year to the Joe Marshall Kiwanian of the Year. Joe loved to say, "I'm excited about Kiwanis!" Whenever the club needed a boost. He was always there to get us "excited!" Joe served in WWII and later became a professor at Abilene Christian University. He also could be found sitting in front of his ham radio, call sign K5AZY, talking to people all over the world. Joe and his wife Wilma were both professors in the Education Department at ACU. Both of them touched the lives of many future teachers that have gone into the world to teach. Happy Birthday, Joe! Like you, we are excited about Kiwanis!
Creating massive impact one project at a time.
A Look at Clubs
The following are just a few of the many Aktion Club of Weatherford highlights of this past month. September 1st brought a regular club meeting where we welcomed our newest member, Brayden. On September 3 and 20, the club met on Sunday afternoons to make more than 200 peanut butter sandwiches each week to feed the Weatherford High School football team after their early Monday morning workout. On September 24, the club rode in the Weatherford High School Homecoming Parade! On September 27, the club helped Central Christian Church unload 4,200 pumpkins for the church pumpkin patch. (It was hot and heavy work!) On September 29, the club held its 2nd Annual Fundraising Dinner. For the dinner, Chef Damon Norfleet of Ronald McDonald House-Fort Worth joined in the fun! (Our Aktion Club loves cooking with Chef Damon—in fact, cooking and serving the guests of the Ronald McDonald is the club's favorite service project.) The Club is especially grateful to Central Christian Church of Weatherford for providing their kitchen and hall for the dinner, to Tailgater’s BBQ for smoking the pork, and to Raising Cain’s for coming to the dinner and providing the beverages. Aktion Club members sold tickets to the dinner, decorated the hall, and, with Chef Damon’s supervision, cooked the meal. Club members took turns telling the diners what they love most about Aktion Club! DJ Lightsaber (a club member) provided the music. Aktion Club members and their families baked desserts for a silent auction. The club served 140 plates of pulled pork sandwiches on fresh-baked bread, cole slaw, baked beans, macaroni and cheese, and fresh pickled red onions with cookies. The 12-member club raised over $2,500 at the dinner and identified three potential new members!
Weatherford, Texas
Submitted by John Callison
September Highlights
Chisholm Trail Kiwanis Club of Duncan, Oklahoma Club Updates Submitted by Patty Wininger
Club update from the Chisholm Trail Kiwanis Club of Duncan, Oklahoma: The club's new officers and board were installed in September. The club finished up another successful season of operating their beloved Kiddieland amusement park, which operates from May through September, seeing record numbers of kids and families. This year Kiwanis Kiddieland hosted its first ever Fall Fest complete with all rides open, pumpkin painting, hot apple cider or apple juice, popcorn, a scarecrow decorating contest, and face painting. It was held on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 5 pm to 9 pm in Fuqua Park, Duncan, Oklahoma. The club will also hold their fifth annual Kiwanis Kiddieland Express Holiday Experience the first two weekends in December on the 4th, 5th, 11th, and 12th, from 6 to 8pm, where the park becomes a traditional Christmas-themed event complete with Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus, Snow Globe jump house, costume characters, carousel ride, and the train ride complete with the story time of "Twas the Night before Christmas," hot chocolate, and a big cookie. Both events are only $5 per person and are fundraisers for the club. The club held their summer swim classes in June and July, where over 300 children and youth participated in lessons and safety classes. They also continue to sponsor our local high school Key Club with over forty students who have joined and participate in service, leadership, and engagement. The kick-off was September 2.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene TEACHER APPRECIATION Submitted by Lyndel Cook
Gail Jay reported that Greater Abilene held two Teacher Appreciation continental breakfasts on 9/15/26 for 260 teachers that serve 1,400 children at Stafford Elementary School and Long Early Centers. The club received word back that the teachers loved their treats! All the teachers appreciate the support and recognition Greater Abilene provides for them. Thanks, Kiwanians! Lt. Governor Lyndel Cook also delivered the new K-Kids kits and 100 T-O District coloring books for the kindergarteners at Stafford Elementary. Long ELC counselor Melissa Martinez and Principal Julie Wilson will receive the goodies from Kiwanians Gail Jay and Nancy Baker.
The Amarillo Downtown Kiwanis Club recently packed backpacks provided by the district for children ages 12 to 18. Each backpack was filled with essential items, including socks, shampoo, a brush, a toothbrush and toothpaste, a pen and notebook, small puzzle books, toilet paper, a compact mirror, deodorant, and other necessities. The backpacks will be distributed through a partnership with Amarillo ISD. These supplies are intended to assist children experiencing homelessness or those affected by emergency situations and difficult home circumstances. When a need arises, the school district is notified quickly and will coordinate with a club member to ensure the backpacks are delivered to the students who need them. President Scott Kilian and club member Brett Beesley worked together to establish this partnership and are pleased to know these backpacks will provide comfort and support to children during challenging times.
Amarillo Downtown Kiwanis Club backpacks for children Submitted by Scott Kilian
The Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene closed out their 2025-2026 Kiwanis year through special recognitions and charity. Take a moment to see how the club wrapped up their year and welcomed the 2026-2027 Kiwanis year. COMMUNITY CARING AWARD PRESENTED President Cameo read an introduction to explain why the club presented their Kiwanis Club's Community Caring Award to Joe Stephens, Abilene Community Band. This recognition goes back to an important project in the club’s history. Around 2008, Hendrick Medical Center announced Project 2010, the largest building expansion in Hendricks' history at that time. The $80 million project added approximately 250,000 square feet to the campus and included the relocation and expansion of Hendrick Children’s Hospital. The project was completed in 2012. The Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene, along with the other Kiwanis Clubs in Division 35 of the Texas-Oklahoma District, pledged $50,000 toward Project 2010. The club members donated, held fundraisers, and worked hard to fulfill that commitment. But the club was still short of their goal. That’s when Joe Cook and Cameron Rinard, both Kiwanians and members of the Abilene Community Band, along with Kiwanian and Celebration Singers member Gener Linder, suggested that the club contact the Abilene Community Band. The Abilene Community Band (ACB) graciously stepped up. They agreed to sponsor at least three concerts, with the proceeds benefiting Hendrick’s Project 2010. Their generosity and willingness to partner with Kiwanis helped the club reach their $50,000 commitment. Joe Stephens represents that same spirit of community service and partnership. The Community Caring Award is about recognizing people who don’t simply talk about making their community better—they show up, give their time and talents, and help make things happen. The ACB did that for Kiwanis and for the children and families of Abilene. Joe, on behalf of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene, thank you for what you have done for the community and, most importantly, for the children. The club is proud to present you with the Kiwanis Community Caring Award. CMN RECEIVES $4,000 CHECK President Cameo presented Brad Benham and Susan Greenwood from Hendrick Medical Center and Melinda Blay from Hendrick Children’s Miracle Network with a large presentation check for $4,000. Brad thanked club members for their support of their mission of helping children. Brad and Susan were also the club's program for the day. Brad filled the club in on the new building projects happening at Hendrick Medical Center North. The goal of the new construction is to better serve an underserved community with new Ob/Gyns and labor and delivery rooms. Hendrick also wants to grow large enough to meet the growing need of Abilene and its large rural region. Most important is to create a centralized access point so every mom in the region knows that the care she needs during labor and delivery is ready for her. This growth and transformation is to better serve every mother and every baby. There will be 4 new first-response rooms, 3 high-risk suites, 8 more delivery rooms, 6 new mother/baby rooms, and 8 new NICU bays. Brad said the potential philanthropic investment will be around $14,575,000. $4 million will go toward the Birthplace unit, $2 million for the LDR wing and NICU, and several other medical bays and rooms. NEW OFFICERS AND BOARD MEMBERS INSTALLED LTG Lyndel Cook recognized all board members for 2025-2026 and thanked them for their service. He also recognized Region 6 Trustee David McCaghren, who is serving a three-year term for the T-O District. Lyndel inducted 2026-2027 Board of Directors: 1-year continuing members Susan Holland, Steven Leggett, Doug Slack, and Ikie Taylor; 2-year BOD members Steve Brown, Barry Gurley, Gail Jay, and Kevin McSherry. Jamie Bearden is an alternate club director and treasurer of the club's foundation. Club officers are Secretary Nancy Baker, Treasurer Diane Terrell, Vice Presidents Brad Birchum and Justin Whiteley, President-Elect Joey Parker, Past President and Foundation President Cameo Harvey, and Club President Shelley Drennan. PRESIDENT CAMEO THANKS CLUB FOR SUPPORT Newly elected President Shelley Drennan presented a certificate of appreciation to outgoing President Cameo Harvey for her 2nd term as president. Shelley read a letter of thanks for a $100 donation in Cameo’s name to Breakfast on Beech St. in lieu of a past president's plaque. President Cameo thanked the club for their support of her and her goals during this past year. She said it was a pleasure to serve as president again and feels Greater Abilene had an outstanding year for 2025-2026.
Submitted by Lyndel Cook
Continued on next page...
Featuring the Kiwanis Club of Texarkana Submitted by Monty Murry
Hidden in the Dust: Rediscovering the Kiwanis That Dreamed Big
A few years ago, the Kiwanis Club of Texarkana celebrated its 100th anniversary. In the months leading up to the celebration, I (Monty Murry) was given the responsibility of preparing a report on the history of our club. During my research, someone mentioned that the club might still have a few things in storage at an old warehouse downtown in the facility that had itself been in operation for 80 or 90 years. I contacted the warehouse, and after checking its records, the staff confirmed that the Kiwanis Club of Texarkana did, in fact, have some items stored there. I believe that discovery surprised them almost as much as it surprised me. I immediately climbed into my truck and drove downtown, having no idea what I might find. What I discovered not only astonished me but also changed the way I thought about Kiwanis. Inside the warehouse were dozens of dust‑covered boxes that had apparently remained untouched for 60 years or more. I loaded them into my truck, took them to my office, and spent the next several days going through their contents. The boxes were filled with old newspaper clippings, photographs, reports, and other records telling the remarkable story of what our club had accomplished during its early years. Each evening, I would go home and, often with tears in my eyes, tell my wife about another discovery I had made. These were not merely accounts of meetings, luncheons, or fundraisers. They revealed a club whose members looked at the greatest needs facing their community and asked, "What can Kiwanis do about it?" Here are just a few of the things I discovered. Lighting The White Way Shortly after our club was organized, Broad Street, Texarkana's principal business street, was dark, especially on moonless nights. Recognizing the need for better lighting, they undertook a project called The White Way. In 1925, our club brought the first electric streetlights to Texarkana on Broad Street. Kiwanis saw a city in darkness and helped light the way. Paving the Roads into Texarkana The roads leading into Texarkana were unpaved and unsightly, creating a poor impression of the community for those entering the city. Our club petitioned the state to pave the highways leading into Texarkana. The state agreed, and the paving was accomplished in 1924. Kiwanis recognized a problem, organized a response, and helped make Texarkana a more accessible and welcoming city. Establishing the First Farmers Market In 1926, Kiwanis established Texarkana's first farmers market at the corner of Fourth and Ash streets. The club initially provided wooden tables for local farmers and later constructed sheds over them. This project supported area farmers while giving local families convenient access to fresh food. Bringing a Junior College to Texarkana Our club recognized early that Texarkana needed greater educational opportunities. Working tirelessly with other community organizations, Kiwanis helped bring the city's first junior college into existence in 1927. Texarkana College is a thriving institution today. Supporting a Municipal Airport In 1928, Kiwanis worked with city officials to help establish a municipal airport in Texarkana. At a time when aviation was still in its infancy, our members had the vision to recognize how important air travel would become to the city's future. Solving the Post Office/Courthouse Dispute In 1929, the two Texarkanas were divided over where the new federal post office and courthouse should be located. Some wanted it on the Texas side, while others wanted it on the Arkansas side. Kiwanis helped develop an ingenious solution: place the building directly on State Line Avenue. Our club helped secure the site and assisted in designing the surrounding streets. A disagreement that might have divided the community instead produced one of Texarkana's most distinctive landmarks. Creating an Early Homeless Shelter When the Great Depression struck, Texarkana saw increasing numbers of people passing through town in search of jobs, food, and a place to sleep. Our club responded by establishing the city's first shelter for transients. Located in a two‑room building near Ash Street, the shelter provided cots and meals to people who had nowhere else to go. Initiating Mosquito Control In 1933, Kiwanis initiated Texarkana's first mosquito-control program. It may sound like a routine public service today, but at the time it represented an important advancement in community health and quality of life. Building a Camp In 1936, our club worked with others in the community to establish Camp Preston Hunt. Kiwanis built three cabins, installed a flagpole in the center, and named the site Kamp Kiwanis. Nearly a century later, those three cabins are still being used by Scouts, a living reminder that a Kiwanis project can continue serving young people for generations. Providing Child Care for Working Mothers As the Great Depression was coming to an end, more mothers were working during the day and needed a safe place for their children. Kiwanis secured a room at Grim School, cared for the children, and provided them with lunch each day. Long before child care became common, our club saw the need and responded. Establishing Public Playgrounds Kiwanis also brought to Texarkana its first public playgrounds. Four playgrounds were established on East Ninth Street, at Bramble Park, on the Boulevard, and on Factory Street. Once again, our members recognized a need affecting children and families and did something about it. What Happened to the Kiwanis That Dreamed Big? As I read these stories, I began to wonder whether there was once a time when Kiwanis dreamed bigger than we do today. Our club still does many wonderful and important things throughout the year. We support children's organizations, provide grants, award scholarships, conduct service projects, and improve the lives of young people throughout our community. Those efforts matter greatly, and we are very proud of them, as we should be. But when was the last time we attempted something as ambitious as creating a day‑care center, establishing a homeless shelter, developing public playgrounds, helping to open a college, or bringing an airport to our city? The early members of our club did not wait for someone else to solve the community's problems. They identified the greatest needs facing Texarkana, brought people together, and found a way to meet them. Their resources were probably limited. Their challenges were undoubtedly great. But their vision was enormous. If Kiwanis is to remain relevant, both at the club level and throughout our district, we must recover some of that boldness. We must be willing to innovate, to take risks, and to consider projects that may initially appear beyond our reach. We must not be afraid to dream bigger. Those dusty boxes taught me that we do not have to reinvent Kiwanis. The example we need has been part of our story from the beginning. We simply need to rediscover it.
Continued...
A Letter From the Youth Protection Manager
Hello Mighty Texas-Oklahoma Kiwanians. My name is Brian Walker, and I am the District Youth Protection Manager. As we begin another Kiwanis year, I want to remind club leaders that as we serve children we must also make sure that we keep their safety at the forefront of our mission. It’s the perfect time for Kiwanis clubs to complete the annual required youth protection training, review Kiwanis Youth Protection Policies, ensure Service Leadership Program advisor contact information is updated in Engage, and that advisors' background checks are current. On our Youth Protection Week webpage, you'll find links to: Kiwanis Youth Protection policies An updated training slide deck for your club to share A list of district youth protection managers Information about Praesidium Academy's online courses, and Information about our Youth Protection Helpline Live webinar dates. I have also included this link, https://vimeo.com/863372175 , that will take you to a 15-minute narrated video of the Youth Protection PowerPoint slide deck. Completing the training can be as simple as playing this video at a club meeting. I live in Tulsa, OK, and am also open to joining your club in person or via Zoom to do the training as well. After your club completes training for the 2026-27 Kiwanis year, your club secretary should check the box on the Sponsored Youth section in Kiwanis Engage. By checking the box, this will let the district and international know that you have completed the training. Through this annual training, your club is helping to protect youth—and the Kiwanians who work with them—while strengthening the Kiwanis family’s status as a role model in building the next generation of servant leaders. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me either by text/phone at 918-849-0464, or you can email me at youth-protection@txokkiwanis.org. Thank you for your service to the children of The Mighty Texas-Oklahoma District! In Service, Brian Walker Youth Protection Manager Texas-Oklahoma District of Kiwanis International
Submitted by Kelly Poland
New SLP Charters
Hello T-O! As the chairperson for the TX-OK Committee for Key Club, I’m thrilled to share this year’s report with you. Financially, Key Club is doing wonderfully, and we’re looking forward to another year of profitability. But let’s not forget, success isn’t just about money. I’m also happy to say that the Key Club District Board is fully staffed. Each division now has a Lt. Governor, and Governor Bisan Abdalla received over 100 applications from members eager to fill any division that didn’t already have a resident member elected. As we mentioned before, Key Club wrapped up its membership year on June 30 with an all-time high of 17,679 members. Our annual convention, LEDCON, saw the highest attendance since COVID, with 685 members. Plus, we had the highest attendance at ICON in my memory, with 85 members and chaperones attending all days, and 10 more joining us for 1 or 2 days. Also, it’s worth noting that in the past, Key Club District Board members were the only ones on District Committees. This year, Governor Bisan Abdalla has encouraged club members to get involved more at the district level. As a result, we now have over 50 club members serving on various district boards. As Chair, I’m so grateful for the success we’ve achieved, and it wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible Kiwanians on this committee with me. I want to express my sincere thanks to Cassi Zenor, Hayley Herman, Brittany Stiborik, Pam Bowdoin, Vanessa Westbrook, Heidi Tournoux-Hanshaw, Emily Waller, Hunter Faubion, Carl Thomas, Cathy Dodson, Jaime Miranda, Peter McGlinchey, and Steven Baringer. These dedicated Kiwanians invest countless hours in mentoring, transporting, and training the Key Club District Board, as well as supporting the clubs in their regions. Key Club is thriving in Texas-Oklahoma! I get questions every week from schools, students, and teachers about how to start a Key Club. If you’re looking to bring new energy and enthusiasm to your Kiwanis Club, reach out to your local Key Club. And if you don’t currently sponsor a Key Club, please contact me, and I’ll be happy to help you get started! Kelly Poland administrator@tokeyclub.com
News
Check out the newest 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. Key Club of Grand Oaks High School with 46 members, sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of The Woodlands/South Montgomery County Key Club of Incarnate Word Academy with 15 members in Houston, TX. No Kiwanis sponsor yet. Key Club of Davis High with 71 members in Houston, TX. No Kiwanis sponsor yet.
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The 2026-2027 Key Club District Board
Update as of 10/13/2026
Texas-Oklahoma Key Leader is Back, and We Need Student Leaders! Submitted by Chelsie Phifer After a decade, Key Leader is returning to Texas-Oklahoma! This transformational leadership experience gives high school students the opportunity to build confidence, strengthen communication and teamwork skills, make new connections, and discover what it means to lead through service. Already a leader? Put your skills into action! Current school leaders or Key Club members can apply to serve as Student Facilitators at our November Key Leader event. Student Facilitators will help guide small groups, lead activities, encourage participants, and use their leadership experience to inspire other students. Whether you're ready to discover your leadership potential or ready to flex the leadership skills you already have, there's a place for you at Texas-Oklahoma Key Leader. Leadership starts here! Registration is open through November 8. Learn more and register at Texas-Oklahoma Key Leader.
Dr. Kathy Culbertson now serving as President for 2026-2027
Texas-Oklahoma Kiwanis Foundation President
Dr. Kathy Culbertson was recently elected as foundation president for the 2026-2027 year. 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 Clubs.
Stay Tuned For Some Exciting News!
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Rafael Villarreal
Terrance Robinson
Arlington
Kay Lancaster
Alamo, San Antonio
Charles Smith
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Ardmore
Johnny Norman
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Elk City
Jim Coffey
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William Glasscock
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Nacogdoches
Wilbert Brown
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Joe Bryant
Philippe Fisher
Southlake
Dee Huston
Hideaway-Lindale
Dinah Ragsdale
In Loving Memory
“The song is ended, but the melody lingers on.” - Irving Berlin
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Texas Oklahoma Kiwanis District Editor's Message Evelyn Herrera
Time to Vote Have you received a political mailer? Come across a political ad? Of course you have! The midterm elections are here. Early voting has begun for some, and for others it begins in a few weeks. Voting can bring up a mixed bag of feelings for some. Not everyone is inspired to take part in this civic duty. But it is necessary to make your voice heard. If you are looking for motivation to run to the polls, look no further than this issue of KI Notes. I was personally inspired by Monty Murry's submission on page 22. If you skimmed over it, please take a closer read. In this submission, Monty describes his journey of uncovering past Texarkana Kiwanis Club impacts. There he details the club's wide breadth of community work and engagement. This work took many forms, from community building to political engagement. This submission was a lesson from the past about the importance of dreaming big and becoming involved. What better way to get involved than researching incoming politicians and policies? Reflect on what your community needs and help usher in the future you want to see.