SOTY pg.36
ISSUE NO. 20
Santas & Softballs pg.15
A Publication of the Texas-Oklahoma District of Kiwanis International
K Club pg.5
KI-NOTES
Happy Holidays!
From your favorite Kiwanis family
December 2021
Contact us
OUR STORY
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.
6 Governor's Message 12 A Look at Clubs 22 District Content
Contents
www.txokkiwanis.org
txokdist@swbell.net
texas oklahoma district
www.facebook.com/texasoklahomakiwanis
P.O. Box 13160, Arlington 76094-3160
817-640-7711
Would you like Governor B to visit your special event?
Governor B loves to participate in special events and celebrate your successes. If your club has an upcoming event that you’d like to invite him to, just complete the form found on the website under the District Leadership tab. You can also click HERE.
Take a look at Governor B's latest informational video to the district! In this video Governor B reflects on the wonderful holiday weekend and wishes the same for his fellow Kiwanians. He also takes this time to remind us that we are nearing the end of this quarter and clubs must begin submitting their reports. As clubs gear up to spread some cheer this holiday season Governor B presents this month's Plug-N-Play idea, Angel Trees. By supporting families via an Angel Tree, Kiwanians can spread more cheer directly to families in need.
WOOO!
BE a member of Governor B’s K-club! When you hear the term K-club you might be thinking “K”iwanis Club but this K-club is a bit different. In this instance, the K represents 1,000. Beginning January 1 and running 6 months until July 1, each person who sponsors a NEW member to Kiwanis will become a member of Governor B’s K-club. Each time you sponsor a member you will receive a small gift and be entered into a drawing for a prize. The person who brings in the MOST new members will have their dues paid for the next year. So start inviting folks today and sign them up!
I am kind of embarrassed to admit this, but it was not until just recently I watched for the first time the forever popular film, “It’s A Wonderful Life!” I had known the basic story and was obviously aware of Zuzu’s quote of, “Teacher says, 'Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings.'” Yet, watching the story in its entirety, and in color no less, I was moved by the beautiful reminder of the value and significance of life. I was also moved by the gracious generosity (spoiler alert) the townsfolks showed in coming together to raise the funds missing from the building and loan’s till to not only rescue the business but save George and the town from complete ruin. The film reminds us of the magnitude of life and the impact even one life can have on many! Just this past week, Emily and I learned the horrible news of the completely unexpected passing of one of our close friends. Becky was our age; she had just turned 40 this year. We have known this couple for almost 20 years. I was a groomsman at their wedding, and her husband was a groomsman at ours. She was a vibrant and passionate servant leader ministering as pastor of a church in Oklahoma. Her impact on the church and community has been widely seen by the outpouring of love to her husband and two children, and the grief expressed by hundreds around Texas, Oklahoma, and the whole country. We obviously continue to be shocked, and grief-filled, while also taking into consideration the reality of no one is guaranteed tomorrow, so we must make sure to take advantage of today! Our friend Becky, her life mattered and friends, your life matters too! When it comes to the necessity and need of service and servant leadership, you will frequently hear me say, “do for one what you wish you could do for all!” This is a concept which not only inspires me but also drives me to work for the betterment of others and the community, specifically kids and youth, even if it is just one person at a time. I have seen and continued to see the transformation possible by acts of kindness and mercy for the lives of children. If a child can get a chance to be their best and thrive in whatever environment they were born in, there is an opportunity for the trajectory of an entire family and generation to change for the better. When we serve even one child or one youth, we articulate how with our words of how the life of this child or youth matters, we show that it matters by our actions and use of resources. Serving others is not handing something down to the less fortunate from a position of more fortunate, it is handing out, handing across to another person in respect and dignity for their life, to proclaim life truly is wonderful and worth the effort. At the time of this publication, we will be in the season of the year which most articulates the value, meaning, and wonder of life. For many of us, we acknowledge and celebrate a birth during this season, a birth culminating in an event we truly believe gives meaning, purpose, and transformation to life. A birth foretold by prophets of old and a life lived to give the gift of “A Wonderful Life,” for all who would believe! If the event of this birth is not your personal narrative, I invite you still to join me during the seasons of Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or the Native American's Winter Solstice to proclaim life matters and life is wonderful and show this by meeting the needs of at least one child or youth. Give the gift of yourself to make the difference in the life of someone who cannot help themselves! I want to express my deepest gratitude and appreciation for everyone who is on this journey with me to not only make my year as governor a great one, but also the quest to help our clubs, divisions, and district be all it can be for the purpose and vision of improving the world one child and one community at a time. In essence, “do for one child and one community, what you wish you could do for all children and all communities!” This will only happen when every TO Kiwanis member is serving and every TO club is serving every month! Thank you to all who are on my team, you are the integral players in our quest to be the best we can be. Who are we going to be as we come into a new calendar year? BE Kiwanis! BE Positive BE Intentional BE Serving Emily, Anna Claire, Jack, and I want to wish everyone in the Mighty Texas-Oklahoma District of Kiwanis International a very Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year! It is indeed a wonderful life and the lives of those we serve matter! “For Unto Us a Child is Born!” May this remind and inspire all of us to give the greatest gift, our lives for others! You are Loved and Appreciated! In Service, Brad "Governor B" McKenzie Governor Texas Oklahoma District Kiwanis International www.txokkiwanis.org www.kiwanis.org
Texas Oklahoma Kiwanis District Governor's Message Brad "Governor B" McKenzie
Plug-N-Play
Upcoming PLUG-N-PLAY ideas...
December Participate in a Giving or Angel Tree project Send Cards to Nursing Homes and/or Shut-Ins Ring a Bell for Salvation Army Kettle January Glove Love - Give gloves to elementary schools Host underwear and sock drive and donate early elementary school nurse World Kiwanis Week - 3rd week - Donate to International Children’s Fund February American Heart Month - Provide Valentine cards to elementary schools for kids who can’t afford them. Donate time or money to local Boys & Girls club National Canned Food Month - Donate canned goods to local food pantry .
You might have heard the term Plug-N-Play tossed around lately on our District’s social media, within the Distinguished Club Criteria, and by Governor B during his Monday Motivation videos. You also might be asking “Just what is Plug-N-Play”? Basically, it is a group of ideas that your club can PLUG into and just PLAY in service. Governor B (Brad McKenzie) wants every club and every member to participate in service this year. He had the idea, then he and his team have developed monthly “Plug-N-Play” service projects. These projects are simple to do individually or jointly at a regular club meeting. October’s suggestions were to send out cards of encouragement to breast cancer patients in conjunction with Breast Cancer Awareness month. Another was helping kids be safe at Halloween by participating in a Trunk or Treat, giving away glow sticks, holding a safety course, or having a hayride. November’s suggestions were to set up a blood drive or go individually and donate at a local blood collection center. The 2nd suggestion was to build a birthday cake kit to take to your local food pantry by wrapping an aluminum pan with a cake mix, frosting, and candles. December’s are to participate in an angel tree or giving tree program. Ring a bell for the Salvation Army Kettle drive, and send Holiday cards to nursing homes and shut-ins. January’s are to donate gloves to your local elementary school as well as hold a sock and underwear drive to give to the early elementary school for the school nurse or teacher to have in case of “accidents.” The 3rd week of January is also World Kiwanis Week. January is a great time to donate at least $10 to the Children’s Fund Foundation at International. This donation will also fulfill one of the Distinguished Club criteria. The full list for the remainder of Governor B’s term is on the website under the Member Resources tab, then click on the Forms, Reports, and Contests section within the Club section. If the hyperlink works in this article, you can also find that list HERE.
A TOUR In its 39th year, the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Amarillo is enjoying its new facilities at the Amarillo Medical Center Complex. RMH provides a home-like setting for families with a child who is hospitalized. The Amarillo Downtown Kiwanis Club was able to tour the RMH and has been a long-time supporter of the facility.
Celebrate with WOOOOOO Is your club WOOOOO worthy? Monthly WOOOOO videos are seen on our social media accounts. Send your pictures with a short explanation to TXOKGOVERNOR@GMAIL.COM and be featured. Here is the WOOOO video for October accomplishments.
Young Children Priority One Project The Kiwanis Club of Sapulpa is dedicated to its motto of "serving the children of the world". Club members recently donated $680 to purchase diapers & wipes for the Sapulpa Early Head Start as part of their Young Children Priority One project. The Sapulpa child development program provides for low-income families, serving children 6 weeks up to 3 years of age and their families. Director Chris Jones reported that they currently serve 32 children.
Satellite Club The Gainesville Kiwanis Club has opened up a Satellite club in attempt to reach those who cannot join their normal weekday meetings. The Satellite club met recently for their second meeting Nov. 18th.
Donating Groceries The Kiwanis Club of Galveston has distributed a Turkey and a sack of groceries at Thanksgiving and Christmas since 1985. This year we delivered to 70 underserved families in Galveston.
Whoville Festival the Kiwanis Club of Venus and their Key Club aided their city by creating a Whoville-themed festival for more than 2000 visitors. They assisted the city with painting and running the event.
OUR DISTRICT KIWANIS TEXAS-OKLAHOMA DISTRICT
This year, for Halloween, the Kiwanis Club of Venus and the Key Club of Venus put on their second annual Halloween Hayride. Last year, only 79 people rode the ride, but this year the hayride serviced more than 240 people, and included free candy, games, face painting, spooky stories, and a half-mile hayride in a scary forest! The Key Club members dressed in costumes and entertained the children while James Hopper, the president of the Kiwanis Club of Venus, told spooky stories. The event was three hours long, and the ride was full the whole time! Next year will be too big for one trailer!
Kiwanis Club of Venus Halloween Hayride SUBMITTED BY Wendy Silvers
Clubs are looking to brighten up the holidays for their communities.
A Look at Clubs
We've shivered and we've sweated, but this year's softball fundraiser weather was perfect! This was the 10th year that the Kiwanis Club of New Braunfels hosted a softball tournament between the New Braunfels Police Department and the Comal County Sheriff's Office. Funds raised through this event go to the Blue Santa and Green Santa programs, which provide Christmas gifts to children who might otherwise receive none. A few years back, the New Braunfels Fire Department joined the fun to help increase funds. This year, a community team under the name Quit Your Pitchin' played too. Volunteers from the Salvation Army donated, prepared, and served the food. Key Clubbers from Smithson Valley High School set up and managed the children running around in the Kids Zone games, donated by Rec 'n' Roll. We could not have asked for more positive, polite, and conscientious helpers. This year’s fundraiser did not disappoint. We brought in more than $100 in raffle tickets, $500 in concessions, and $1,000 in ticket sales, enabling us to exceed $800 in donations to each of the Blue Santa and Green Santa programs. We also raised $225 through our Socks for Scholarships table and shared everything we love about Kiwanis with a prospective member from the City Council.
Kiwanis Club of New Braunfels Santas & Softballs SUBMITTED BY Courtney Fallway
The The Kiwanis Club of Sapulpa awards Makinzie Ellis with the Student of the Month title.
Kiwanis Club Of Sapulpa SOTM SUBMITTED BY Kathy Berryhill
Makinzie Ellis is the Kiwanis Student of the Month for September. She is the daughter of Joe and Laurie Ellis. Makinzie is a Senior at SHS where she has a 3.4 GPA and is on the A/B honor roll. She volunteers as a peer tutor and office aid. Mackinie recently placed 1st at the annual Route 66 Art Show. She is a 4-year member of FCCLA (Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America) serving 2 years as an officer. She is the current Vice President. She has served multiple hours of community service and has plans to attend college majoring in Art Education and becoming an art teacher.
Kiwanis Club of Bartlesville held their annual Bartlesville Holiday Wreaths & More local charity fundraising event on Nov. 11 at our local Hilton Garden Inn. This is an event that our club partners with 31 other local non-profits to showcase holiday creativity to raise funds for the non-profits. It was a combination of an online popularity contest and silent auction with a final in-person event. The creative theme of “Fairytale Christmas” ties in with their Christmas parade theme taking place in later Dec. In other news, as part of an annual tradition, the club assisted their local Salvation Army on the day before Thanksgiving to serve hot Thanksgiving meals to those less fortunate in the community. Volunteers were joined by Pastor Waymond.
Kiwanis Club of Bartlesville Holiday Wreaths & More SUBMITTED BY Konrad Brandemuhl
Duncan Chisholm Trail Kiwanis Club Kiddieland SUBMITTED BY Stacy McGough
The Duncan Chisholm Trail Kiwanis Club has multiple projects every year, Kiddieland (May 1st-Sept 30th), Kiwanis Swimming Lessons (June and July, 2 weeks each month), and Christmas Trees (Friday after Thanksgiving till trees are gone). One of our major projects is running a small amusement park with 4 rides, the merry-go-round, airplanes, tilt-a-whirl, and the train, owned and operated by the Duncan Chisholm Trail Kiwanis Club, Kiddieland! This park has been in existence for many years, several generations have enjoyed this park through the years! This summer our club was 100 years old, we had a birthday party at Kiddieland, open to the public, LOTS of folks came out to celebrate with us! Attached is a copy of our Kiddieland “history”. Currently, we are replacing the old train track. There are many folks in our community that have volunteered their time and talents in this project, Clint Adams, Hope Construction, WW Builders, Wade Construction, Clay Wilson, Leonard Case, a host of Kiwanis members, and Friends of Kiddieland volunteers! Kiwanis is so very thankful for these folks! I have attached photos we have taken so far in this project. In one of these files, there is a picture of coaches and players from Duncan High School Baseball that volunteered their Saturday, November 13, 2021, to move 675 cross ties from storage to Kiddieland! This was vital to the club, as the new train track installation begins TODAY, we are MAKING HISTORY here!
Greenville Golden Kiwanis Club RAMP #400 MILESTONE SUBMITTED BY pat bowman
On Saturday, November 13, 2021, a 13-man GGK/GHS Key Club team built a 30-foot ramp in Greenville, Texas. This ramp was a major milestone as it was 400th ramp built since the GGK started supporting the Texas Ramp Project in 2009. We were assisted by 4 of the GGK’s Key Club members and their sponsors. Also assisting was John Laine, the Executive Director of the TRP. This ramp definitely demonstrated to our Key Club helpers what kind of challenges we sometimes face. Getting the first module attached to the existing stairs proved to be difficult. The concrete was so hard it was extremely difficult to drill the holes to attach the ramp. The client’s husband said these concrete stairs had come out of an old bank building. He was laughing asked if these stairs were part of the bank vault. From warehouse to completion, it took the 13- man team, 4.5 hours for a cumulative total of 58.5 hours. With 4 hours for module building and 2 hours for the survey, we expended a total of 64.5 hours. Shown are before and after pictures. In the final picture are show L-R; Chris Strickland, Noah Daugherty, Riley Carter(all Key Club (KC) members), Tom McAllister, Tisha Pradhan (KC), Cliff Riggins, Tom Davis, Paul Nall, Rich Ryan (knelling), Jim Wiggins, the client’s husband, Will Reese, Mike Peterson, and John Laine. Taking the picture was Andrea Wilkinson, the Key Club school sponsor. The client and her husband were both very pleased with the ramp.
The Kiwanis Club of Harker Heights New Officers SUBMITTED BY Vivian Marschik
The Kiwanis Club of Harker Heights installed the 2021-22 Officers and Board of Directors. President Ron Dalton, Past President Paul Loughran, President-Elect Gary Honaker, Secretary Vivian Marschik, Treasurer Randy Stone, Board of Directors: Jeanette McNiesh, Darrel Charlton, Charles Sweeney, David McClure, and James McKinnon. Honored guests were the HHHS Key Club President Natascha Ali Bocas and her parents and Lt Governor TX/OK District 23 Jeanne Passalugo and former Lt Gov Ed Passalugo. After a year and half of Covid 19 setbacks club members are anxious to get the new year going by planning our pancake supper, expanding our flag program, focusing on our Key Club and youth in the community, and hoping for the best.
Greetings fellow Kiwanians, I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving Holiday. I reflected on the many things I am thankful for in my life. One of the things I am most thankful for is the family and friends that support me in my endeavors. I am thankful for our Kiwanians that do so much in their communities and for the children around the world. I visited several clubs this year and we talked about your fundraisers, projects, goals, and membership. All of the clubs have very impactful projects working with food banks, churches, the Salvation Army, and so much more. I have met people who benefit from your programs and they are very grateful that someone cares and has used their time and money to make a difference. Most non-profit organizations get a bulk of their money during the holiday season. As Kiwanians we need to remember these needs occur all year long and be there to help. If you have not done so recently, now may be a good time to start re-evaluating your communities needs and make sure your clubs are providing the needed support to the children and the community. Don’t forget to schedule those speakers for your club meetings that are both informative and stimulating. When thinking of speakers remember the Service Leadership Programs (SLPs). The K-Kids, Builders Club, Key Club, CKI, and Aktion Club can bring a great presentation to your club or division council meeting. If you don’t have an SLP invite one from a neighboring club. One of the most important things to remember year-round is to ask someone to join Kiwanis. If you don’t ask someone to join Kiwanis, you are denying them the opportunity to say YES!! Use your projects, fundraisers, club meetings, speaker programs, annual banquet, and awards programs to recruit. People that come to these events value you as well as the service you provide and most likely will join your club, so please ask them to join. Don’t forget the Sophomore Of the Year scholarship is approaching fast. Get the word out so the students can start preparing. I have spoken to past award winners and they said it was one of the most important scholarships they won because of the encouragement it provided. If you want me to visit or get someone to come to help your club with growth or just to make the Kiwanis experience better. Call, text, or email me to get a coach and/or Past Governor mentor scheduled to visit your club so that we may help you recruit new members and/or get back to the pace you were before the pandemic. I wish you all a happy holiday season and a special new year!! Thank you for your service, Paul Heinz Immediate Past Governor Texas/Oklahoma District of Kiwanis International (405)246-5972 #KidsNeedKiwanis
Texas Oklahoma Kiwanis District Immediate Past governor's Message Paul Heinz
District content
Content brought to you by the Texas Oklahoma Kiwanis District Team.
Distinguished Club Criteria Complete 10 out of 12
Complete ACE Tool - Forms are found HERE. At least 1 member of club attend Governor’s Visit Full Delegation of 3 delegates at District Convention (2 of whom should be President and President Elect) At least 1 member attend ICON Have net gain of 5 in membership Sponsor/Support at least 1 SLP 2 Interclub (with at least 2 members) to Kiwanis Club meeting 2 Interclub (with at least 2 members) to a SLP meeting Officer Training complete by Current and Elect Officers Participate in at least 12 “Play-N-Plug” service projects Give $10 per member to both TX-OK Foundation and Int’l Children’s Fund At least 2 members attend 75% of Divisional Council Meetings (in person or by Zoom) Extra Credit with Certificate of Appreciation from Governor Sponsor or Co-Sponsor New Club
Since the beginning of this Kiwanis year, Governor B has pushed the theme of “BE Kiwanis”. There are many different ways to BE Kiwanis and this year’s Distinguished Club Criteria reflects the qualities of what it means to BE Kiwanis. First, it is imperative to understand how your club is seen within your community and by your fellow members. Using the ACE tool found on the Kiwanis International website is an excellent way to accomplish this. Governor B feels this is so useful it warrants a place on the criteria list. Interacting with Kiwanis at the Division, District, and International levels help to not only educate club members but to uplift and encourage those who attend “BE Kiwanis”. Friendships are formed and sustained across your division and the district. Ideas of fundraising and service are shared between clubs. The benefits seen and received by this interaction are immeasurable. Therefore, SIX of the twelve stated criteria are tied to attending events and interacting with other clubs in the various division, district, and international opportunities. A distinguished club is a healthy and thriving club. In order to be healthy and thriving, a club must also be growing. Thus, the criteria of a net membership of 5 new members are seen. Yes, this is an ambitious goal, but Governor B believes that by celebrating your successes while you are striving to “BE Kiwanis”, your club will naturally grow as others want to be part of this great organization. If your club is active in chartering or co-chartering a NEW club, you’ll receive a bonus of extra credit as well as a certificate of appreciation from Governor B. As you probably already know, Kiwanis is an international organization dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. How do we do this? By interacting with and sponsoring our Service Leadership Programs (SLPs). Club members who do this come away with a renewed sense of hope for the future while impacting the lives of kids who all need another positive influence. In order to mentor youth in what it means to be a servant leader, one must already be that leader. One way to accomplish this is to participate in the officer training provided by the district. Training videos have been posted to our district website under the Members Resource tab. Some divisions and regions hold in-person training events as well. Your club can easily fulfill this criteria in less than just a few short hours. Another way of changing the world one child at a time is to donate at least $10 per member to the Texas-Oklahoma Foundation. The scholarships given by the Foundation give Key Club and CKI members an opportunity they might not otherwise have to attend the university of their choice. Donating $10 per member to Kiwanis International’s Children’s Fund completes our mission of changing the world. For the price of a lunch or a couple of cups of coffee, you become a part of a worldwide network that catches kids in need. Lastly, Kiwanis is a SERVICE organization. We do service! This does not necessarily mean we have one big project. It can also mean small ways of giving back. Not everyone is equipped to build a playground or fund a food pantry, but anyone can write a card of encouragement or read to a child. Using the Plug-N-Play ideas is an easy way to serve your community and check off a criteria item. You can find a bullet point list of all the Distinguished Club Criteria on the website under the Member Resources tab, then click on Forms, Reports, and Contests and look for the Club section. It is a goal of Governor B to have a record number of Distinguished Clubs all of whom have shown what it means to “Be Kiwanis
Distinguished Club Criteria in order to BE Kiwanis Submitted by Kelly Poland
100 year advice - Have trust and confidence. - Have fun. - Don't die too early. - Don't eat anything that's healthy. - Always eat ice cream.
Here are a few pictures to remind you of our last international convention in Indianapolis, when we celebrated 100 years of Kiwanis.
Press Releases Submitted by Marshall Kregel
A competent Press Release will go a long way towards supporting your club’s media campaign. Establish a relationship with a local journalist (go and meet them) so they will know who you are when you send them a press release. Many newspapers have an online edition, so you have a chance to be seen in multiple ways. Here are some great examples of templates and documents found on the Kiwanis International website. SAMPLE NEWS RELEASES, PROCLAMATIONS AND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR https://www.kiwanis.org/clubs/member-resources/media-relations/sample-news-releases Sample news releases Whether you’re hosting a pancake event, installing new officers or announcing your next service project, we’ve developed some news release templates to help you promote your club. • Pancake event • Service project event • Playground event • Kiwanis One Day • Donation to local organization • Holiday help • New club officers announcement • New district governor elected • New club opening • Kiwanis International convention attendee • Club member anniversary Sample proclamations • Club anniversary Sample letters to the editor • Help make the community better • Help the community during the holidays and year round Sample editorials • Kids need Kiwanis
Ingredients: 1 metal cake pan 1 box cake mix 1 can of frosting 2 hot pads Candles or a gift Dollar Tree sells 60 candles for $1. You can then split the packs and put the candles in small snack bags.
Make your Own Have fun with it!
Birthday Baking Kits Submitted by Colleen BiggerstafF
On Saturday, September 25 KI held their annual Governor’s training in Dallas. As the host District, I was asked to put a service project together for the spouses/partners at that event. So I asked my BFF Susan Hennum to help come up with an idea – we needed something simple but that would have a big impact – and we were asked less than 2 weeks prior to the event to put it together! Susan told me about an event that the NE Dallas Kiwanis Club did that was a huge success. Many of our Kiwanis clubs have participated in helping to provide food and manpower to local food pantries, which is always needed and much appreciated. But this time, they provided a cake mix, canned icing, a baking pan, candles, and either an oven mitt or potholder and wrapped the “kit” in cellophane to provide to those recipients at the food pantry. Families were there to get sustenance for their families, but when they also received something as simple as birthday cake supplies, several mothers had tears in their eyes. That’s not something they even thought of. So it was a simple project with a big impact. At the Governor’s training event, there were about 15 spouses/partners who put together 100 of the baking kits. They only cost 5-6 dollars to put together and they were given to Allen Community Outreach to distribute to the residents of Collin County, which covers multiple zip codes and therefore given to many people. This was fun to participate in and easy to do! I hope that many of our local clubs will consider doing something similar in their areas! This is a great service project idea for your Kiwanis Club. The total cost to each member is a minimum of $5.25. Cost to your club is 2 rolls of saran wrap and copy paper. Dollar Tree is a great option to buy supplies as it is low cost. You can also find some of these items on Dollar Days as well. This is recommended if your club wants to purchase some items in bulk. Ask all your members to either bring a set of the 5 items or make a donation to your club and assign one person to go to Dollar Tree and pick up the items. Someone can make tags to go on top of the items but under the saran wrap. Make sure to put your club name and club website on the tag. Donate to a local food pantry!
Now, we are in the time of year that we start thinking of children, Christmas Time. Christmas shouldn’t be the only time we care about children that “Do without”. They do without all year long. One of the biggest problems in all of our communities is Grandparents Raising their Grand Children. This is a year-round dilemma. A lot bigger of a problem than you really think. Most Grandparents are on a fixed income and have some difficulty caring for themselves, but a lot of Senior citizens have taken on the added responsibility of caring for and raising a second family. Check with your local Social Services Departments. You will be shocked at the number of seniors trying to provide for their Grandchildren due to the fact neither parent is accepting their responsibility. Locally several of our clubs have teamed up with Social Services Charities to help see that those forgotten children get help during this time of the year. We seek out those senior families and help purchase items from their Christmas wish list. Some of the Grandparents that we work with are raising three to five children and trying to do it on Social Security. Now don’t be shocked at what you will see on the wish lists; underwear, socks, sheets/pillowcases, pajamas, toothbrushes/toothpaste, and something for Grandma. We shopped from a Christmas wish list and there was not a single toy requested. We felt so ashamed of our own wish list, all they wanted were necessities. Each year we get requests to help at Christmas time, so let's help this Christmas by helping those that REALLY are needy. If nothing else donate to your local food bank or Toys for Tots or your club can Ring the Bell for Salvation Army. I also encourage you to start thinking about the coming year. Check with your club members for IDEAS that they would like your club to consider when “Serving the Children of the World”. Is your club working with your schools on "Terrific Kids" or "B. U. G."? Why not?
Serving the Children of our Communities Submitted by Sarah A. Augenstein
Submitted by Konrad Brandemuhl
Texas Oklahoma KCF Total Giving
Year
Total
15%
5%
2019-2020
$48,433
$7,265
$2,422
2020-2021
$41,574
$6,236
$2,079
Recently our district received some discouraging news from Kiwanis Children’s Fund Board regarding KCF District Grants. All districts in good standing can request a grant of a certain percentage of the district's total unrestricted giving from the previous Kiwanis year, including donations from clubs, individuals, and other donors. Their board decided to reduce this grant from 15% to 5%. The 15% grant remains in effect for contributions made in the previous fiscal year but, for the current fiscal year, only 5% grants will be available for next year. The following table is an example of the impact of those changes. According to the notification, the 15% grant amount was supposed to encourage member districts to contribute more to KCF; however, since it lacked the desired effect, the KCF board decided to reduce the grant to 5%. GivingTuesday was Nov. 30, 2021. I hope you had a good GivingTuesday. ( https://givingtuesday.org ) Does the KCF participate in GivingTuesday? KCF does not actively participate in GivingTuesday. KCF believes this global event should be for local efforts and that active participation in this event would dilute our message and efforts. The new initiative for 2021-2022. You or your club officers may have recently received an email from KCF about a 365 effort. If your club isn't currently donating to the KCF, consider a $1 per day contribution to the KCF, hence the $365 club effort. Please, ask your club board to add an agenda item to your annual budget for the KCF and TO Kiwanis Foundation. If your club doesn’t wish to do so at the club level, please consider finding a few members in your club to contribute that amount to KCF and the TO Kiwanis Foundation.
The Holiday season brings out the best in those who have the heart to give. Money is donated, Service is donated. Toys are donated, Time is donated. You’ve seen it and have most likely felt it. COVID didn’t stop Key Club from showing this spirit of giving and only caused a small bump in the road. The Key Clubs adapted quickly to online service and found many creative ways to individually serve. Sending cards as we see in Governor B’s Plug-N-Play ideas is one. This year, with schools being back in person, Key Club is exploding! We already have 4 new charters since October 1. Kids want to help others. Key Club gives them that opportunity. Wouldn’t you like that enthusiasm and drive in your club? It would be like the Holiday servicing spirit all year long. You can have it! All you need to do is contact your local Key Club and start being a part of them. In addition to the immediate benefits of youth and enthusiasm at YOUR next service event, you are planting seeds of new Kiwanis members for when these kids are adults. Yes, ’Tis Always the Season for Key Club.
‘Tis Always The Season for Key Club Submitted by Kelly Poland
August 4th, 2022-August 7th, 2022
DISTRICT CONVENTION 2022 Georgetown
DcOn Submitted by John Cano
Calling all Texas-Oklahoma Kiwanians and friends! Save the date for the district's 104th annual convention from August 4-7, 2022 at the Sheraton Austin Georgetown Hotel & Conference Center in Georgetown, Texas! This convention will be the first time that clubs from across the district can gather together again in person to learn new ways to serve our communities, develop and inspire leadership for our youth, and conduct important business in electing the leadership for our district. After two years apart, we hope you're all looking forward to reconnecting with your friends to celebrate all of the great ways we're improving the world one child, and one community at a time. This convention will be a celebration of all things that make Kiwanis a positive force for change in the world. We'll have great entertainment and inspiring speakers, a well-organized and effective program for each session, informative forums and workshops, and local vendors. Members of Division 24 are working together to make this a great event and we can't wait to welcome you all to Georgetown!
save the date
Sophomore of the Year Submitted by John Curlee
Sophomore of the Year History Walter Hurst was a long-time member of the Texas-Oklahoma Foundation Board and financial supporter of the Texas-Oklahoma Foundation. He proposed and lobbied the Texas-Oklahoma Board for three years to start a scholarship fund for sophomores. Finally, in 1979-80* they agreed to start the “Walter Hurst Sophomore of the Year Scholarship.” In recent years, the program has normally been referred to as “Sophomore of the Year or SOTY.” The Scholarship award is not based on academics, but on leadership qualities. A goal is to seek out, recognize and develop leadership potential commencing with high school sophomores, and to encourage and prepare the next generation of civic and corporate leadership for America's future. A second goal is to help sophomores gain experience and confidence in following written instructions when applying for scholarships. A third goal is to educate people in the schools and communities about the Kiwanis organization. The number of scholarships awarded from year to year depends on the amount of money available from the Texas-Oklahoma Foundation. Each club in the District is asked to contribute a minimum of $10 per member as an annual gift to the Foundation. Special recognition is given to District clubs for a gift of $10 per member. The District SOTY awardees will receive a congratulatory letter that includes instructions on how to redeem the award after enrolling in a college or university. In addition to the scholarships given at the district level, many clubs award scholarships from their club fund. The Foundation requests that clubs giving scholarships use a name slightly different as to avoid confusion when the time comes for the students to receive their funds. Instructions for Students Click on the image for a closer look Instructions for Kiwanis Club Presidents Click on the image for a closer look Instructions for LT. GOVERNOR Click on the image for a closer look
SOTY Important Dates Mark your calendar!
January 28, 2022- Last day for club representative to deliver SOTY applications to school(s) & explain the program to counselors March 4, 2022- Student application due in counselor's office. March 11, 2022- Last day for club representative to pick up applications from school. April 8, 2022- Last day for clubs to forward their club nominee to Lt. Gov. or Trustee if Div. has no Lt. Governor. (Items must be postmarked by this date or earlier) May 13, 2022- Last day for Governor to send Div. Nominee to SOTY Chair. (Items must be postmarked by this date or earlier) August 4‐7, 2022- Winners will be announced at District Convention.
https://www.tofoundation.com/
Texas Oklahoma Kiwanis District Editor's Message Evelyn Herrera
Hello Fellow Kiwanians, This is it, we made it to the end of 2021! I hope this year treated you all better than the previous. Without a doubt, every year brings with it its challenges, but no matter, it is well known that Kiwanians face challenges head-on. During the holiday season, I often find myself reminiscing about the kindness I have recieved throughout my life. In all honesty, I was once the kind of child most Kiwanis clubs gear to assist. I recall times when I depended on free lunches for the summer and school supply drives to be prepared for school. Due to the generosity of those who engaged with their community, I was able to fare better in school and survive dire times. I share this because I want to let you know that every little bit you do matters. Regardless of how big of a project your club produces or the number of volunteers you have, you make an impact. The children of today will remember your kindness in the years to come. This is how we create a better future. Regardless of what you celebrate this season, I wish you all joy and prosperity. May 2022 greet us all with open arms. Sincerely, Evelyn Herrera
Month
Division
Club
Name
October
5
San Antonio ARC Golden K
William Moore
28
Galveston
Dennis Ferguson
21
Shawnee
Michael Lester
1
Fort Worth Golden K
Jason Curtiss
November
14
Henderson
Jim Commons
West Side, Fort Worth
Dempsey Vest
35
Abilene
Dennis Laster
19
Bethany
Richard Bond
Jack Snoddy
Kenneth Whittington
8
Denton
Ralph Rosprim
Denton, Breakfast, Denton
Peter Lane
All listed with sympathy and memory.
In Loving Memory
“Unable are the loved to die. For love is immortality. ” - Emily Dickinson
KI Notes submissions can be emailed to txokkiwanis@gmail.com.