Alabama District Kiwanis Foundation That Have Not Yet Been Reported

Alabama

Kiwanis Kourier Winter 2014 Published by Alabama Kiwanis Foundation 13 pages Mid-winter Conference Feb. 21-22 By Patrice Stewart Kiwanis Kourier editor The Alabama District of Kiwanis Mid-winter Conference, scheduled Feb. 21-22 in Prattville, will cover topics such as the new Global Campaign for Growth, progress in The Eliminate Project, and what clubs need to do about background checks and other youth protection/risk issues. Alabama Kiwanians will meet at The Legends Marriott hotel and conference center for a weekend of Kiwanis education, leadership training and fellowship. Costumed characters including a loofah and soap were among those run- The featured ning into the waves at the Kiwanis Club of Gulf Shores third annual Polar speaker for several Bear Dip. workshops and the Interclub Luncheon will be Greg Beard of Alexandria, La., USA Clubs sponsor polar dip, Region 2 Growth Chair for the Global Campaign for Growth. The 2011-12 parades, pancakes, tour Distinguished Greg Beard Governor for the By Patrice Stewart Women in feather boas and crazy- Louisiana- Kiwanis Kourier editor looking 2014 glasses romped in the Mississippi-West Tennessee District, Kiwanians around Alabama partici- waves, while some families prepared he also serves as a co-chair for The pated in parades and projects right in advance with matching T-shirts Eliminate Project’s Lead and Major through the Christmas season and spelling out 2014, worn with Gifts Committee. into the new year. Hawaiian-style grass skirts. Three board meetings are scheduled The Kiwanis Club of Gulf Shores Kiwanis Club president David Friday afternoon (RIF at 12:45, District offered a way to start 2014 with a Foundation at 2:15 and District Board Williams went knee-deep in the Gulf chilly but fun noon dip into the Gulf to handle the official noon countdown at 3:45. A casual dinner is planned for of Mexico at the public beach. 6:45 p.m., featuring a karaoke benefit with a bullhorn. for The Eliminate Project. A hospitali- The third annual Polar Bear Dip And the guy wearing a white Elvis- drew a costumed Spiderman, Batman, ty room will be open afterward. style suit with scarf was Kiwanis past polar bear and a loofah with soap, On Saturday morning, coffee along with other characters running president and lieutenant governor (See PRATTVILLE, Page 10) into the surf and back out quickly. (See EVENTS, Page 5)

Registration is open online for Kiwanis International Convention in Japan July 17-20, 2014 Alabama Kiwanis Kourier, Winter 2014 2 Ala. District officers District’s membership for 2013-14 numbers are going up Governor: Bill Phillips, Pell City Governor-elect: Brian Rodgers, Most people enjoy the New Professionals. Indian Springs Year holiday. It’s a chance to Our New Club Building Vice-governor: Bob Palys, forget the disappointments Chairperson Colean Black, Cullman and failures of the past year with help from Kyle Pierce, is Past governor: Wayne Sisk, and a chance to look forward to be commended for hard Alexandria to good things and opportu- work in getting this club nities. Also, everyone enjoys LIEUTENANT GOVERNORS: started. In addition, several hearing good news. Division 1, Richard Hartz, more sites have been identi- I would like to share some Huntsville West fied for possible new clubs good news with you. Since this year, and organizational Division 2, James Stansell, the start of our Kiwanis new Rogersville year on Oct. 1, 2013, based on work on these sites will start Division 3, Pollyanna Higgs, the latest membership report From the soon with Colean, Kyle, the Jasper from Kiwanis International, lieutenant governor in each Division 4, Betty Whisenant, we have had a reported net Governor area, and volunteers. Tuscaloosa increase of 27 members in our I will continue to push for Division 5, Owen Bradley, Hoover- district membership through By Bill additional sites for clubs to be Metro the end of December. Phillips Jr. identified this year, as well as Division 6, Luther Jarmon, Vulcan, Membership growth is one helping prepare for next year, Birmingham of my goals for this year, and when our new regionally as I have been emphasizing it, I hope appointed Growth Team will be in Division 7, Gerald Ware, Gadsden each club has been working toward place and operational. Division 8, James Kendrick, this goal. The membership increase Wedowee My new club goal for this year is mentioned above has been all across five new clubs. This is certainly a Division 9, Alan Taylor, Millbrook- our district, with most divisions report- doable goal, but any goal requires the Coosada ing an increase in membership. I know help and efforts of our members. Division 10, Pat Padgett, Auburn some clubs have membership drives We have strong youth service Division 11, Joel Williams, Troy planned for this spring — how about yours? groups, with good leadership, in the Division 12, Margaret Murphy, Alabama District. They are always Monroeville In addition to the increase in membership in our existing clubs, we have seeking to grow, just as Kiwanis is. Division 13, Thomas Lott, a new Kiwanis club to add to our So far this year, I am aware of one Daphne-Spanish Fort District family. A new club has been new Key Club and one new Builders Division 14, Keith Graham, Azalea chartered in the Birmingham area as Club in the Alabama District. The Key City, Mobile the Kiwanis Club of Magic City Young Club, which is at Woodland High School, is sponsored by the Wedowee Kiwanis Club. The new Builders Club is at Victory Christian School and is Alabama Kiwanis Kourier sponsored by the Moody Kiwanis Club. There may be additional clubs Published by Alabama District Kiwanis Foundation that have not yet been reported. I Address news, photos and other correspondence to: know of additional sites that have Patrice W. Stewart, Editor expressed an interest in having clubs. 256-303-1668 n [email protected] It has been shown many times that Design and technical assistance by Steve Stewart, assistant professor, Troy University an increase in membership can be Bill Phillips Jr., Pell City ([email protected]) �� Governor contiguous for a club, as well as a division. I believe we are off to a good Brian Rodgers, Indian Springs ([email protected]) �� Governor-elect start in the Alabama District this year. Bob Palys, Cullman ([email protected]) �� Vice Governor Wayne Sisk, Alexandria ([email protected]) �� Past Governor Let’s build on success and accelerate Pat Manasco ([email protected]) �� District Secretary membership growth as we head into our centennial year of 2014-2015. Let’s DISTRICT OFFICE: 85 Bagby Drive, Suite 206, Birmingham, AL 35209 Phone (205) 945-1334 or (800) 745-1334, Fax (205) 942-5348; alabama.kiwanis.org end our year with more members and clubs than we started our year with.

Put the Alabama District Kiwanis Convention on your calendars: Aug. 1-3, 2014, in Mobile Alabama Kiwanis Kourier, Winter 2014 3 Alabama District Kiwanis history This is the third in a series of articles on Alabama District Kiwanis history compiled by Bob McCurley, who has served as an Alabama District Kiwanis Governor and as a member of the boards of Kiwanis International and its foundation. Those early years Bob McCurley

Kiwanis was formed during World War I on Jan. 21, 2015, in uring the last half of the 1920s, bad economic times Detroit, Mich., as a men’s business club. Before long, members hit Alabama and America. Kiwanis growth slowed, found the real purpose of Kiwanis was as a civic club. This civic with only five more clubs formed during the last club purpose quickly evolved, and a new beginning for Kiwanis Dhalf of the 1920s. The good news is that over 90 percent of International materialized in Birmingham, Ala., with the pur- these clubs still survive today. To be a Kiwanian in the chase of the Kiwanis name from Allen Brown. Kiwanis became 1920s meant one was a community leader of great renown. The charter members were the “who’s who” of the city. the organization we know today on May 21, 1919, at the The 1930s were not much better. Only four clubs were Tutwiler Hotel in Birmingham. (See Alabama Kiwanis Kourier, formed, and one of them did not survive the decade. Summer 2013). With World War II raging, Kiwanis did not fare much better in the early 1940s. Effort was he year 1919 was a good focused on the war, both in time in America. World War I Europe and the Pacific. During the had ended the year before, period 1940 to 1945, only two clubs were formed and only one of Tand there was enthusiasm and a them survived. feeling for helping others begin new lives in new places. Returning orld War II ended in soldiers moved to the towns and August 1945, and our cities eager to meet new friends troops returned with a and new opportunities. renewedW new feeling for helping In Alabama, new clubs were formed immediately. During their fellow man. These veterans make up what many now 1919, five new clubs joined Birmingham to become the call our greatest generation. Kiwanis took off, with three nucleus of what would later be the Alabama District. (See new clubs formed in 1946, 11 more in 1947, three in 1948 and three more in 1949. Fall 2013 Alabama Kiwanis Kourier.) Twenty new Kiwanis clubs in only four years is a fantas- During 1920 five more clubs were formed; 1921, eight tic commitment of involvement. In the previous 20 years clubs were organized; five more in 1922; six clubs in 1923 Alabama had organized 11 clubs, and only six had sur- and two in 1924. In 1925, the Alabama-Florida district was vived these hard times. Kiwanis was entering its greatest divided, making Alabama a separate district with 32 clubs. years of growth.

There are many more “Kiwanis stories waiting to be told.” If you have anec- dotes or stories you want to include in the Alabama District history, please Can you help send them. Anyone who may have information or Kiwanis pictures of these early days, please send them to Bob McCurley, [email protected], or to with photos District Secretary Pat Manasco, [email protected]. The future editions of the Alabama Kiwanis Kourier during 2014 will include or information? excerpts from other decades, along with articles about our sponsored youth organizations and district leadership.

Have questions? Call the Kiwanis District Office in Birmingham at 205-945-1334 Alabama Kiwanis Kourier, Winter 2014 4

Building leadership skills was the focus when more than 60 Circle K members gathered at Camp Lee at Anniston. Circle K District Convention will take attendees around the world By Zach Nolen Circle K Governor, Alabama District More than 60 Circle K members from across the state gathered at Camp Lee at Anniston on the weekend of Nov. 1 for the annual Alabama Leadership Academy. The weekend was full of leadership building exercises that took members far outside of their comfort zones to stretch their leadership skills to make them better leaders in their communities. Attendees participated in several low ropes activities, a climbing wall, and a zip line. With much planning and care, the event went off without a hitch and ended with members temporarily parting from their newfound friends and planning events with their respective clubs to bring them together to serve their communities. Zach Nolen Coming off the success of their Alabama Leadership Academy, the Alabama District Board has been hard at work planning an amazing Members of the UAB Circle K Club are shown with convention for Feb. 28-March 2 in Opelika. Camp Lee director Marcus Strickland. The theme for the convention will be “All Around the cific country and will use the culture to teach valuable les- World: Making a World of Differences.” It will take attend- sons about service, leadership and fellowship. ees across the globe to show the impact that Circle K mem- Our Alabama District Circle K Board is currently in the bers are making in various countries. Each of the planned workshops will be focused on a spe- (See CIRCLE K, Page 5)

Email news and photos to the Kiwanis Kourier, [email protected] Alabama Kiwanis Kourier, Winter 2014 5 Circle K (From Page 4) final planning stages for the convention, to be held at the Marriott Grand National in Opelika, and the excite- ment is building for what is sure to be one of the best conventions to date. Along with the election of the new District Board, there will be activities such as talent and oratorical contests and also an awards ball to recognize clubs and individual members who have gone above and beyond over the past year. This is sure to be a convention that should not be missed. We would like to invite any Kiwanians who would like to attend. It is always a great opportunity for Circle K members to interact with Kiwanians and is another high point of the convention. For more information, email me at In front of the climbing wall are Circle K District Governor Zach Nolen, [email protected]. Plains Lt. Gov. Jessica Bloom and District Secretary Meggie Hall.

program featuring festive music, hot Spirits and music Events apple cider, homemade baked goods (From Page 1) The Young Professionals Kiwanis and lighting of the Yule Log. Club of Magic City had a different Steve Jones, now a Gulf Shores city In Foley, the annual downtown take on holiday spirits and festivities. councilman. His wife, Renee, wearing Christmas parade was sponsored Dec. They sponsored “Kiwanis Uncorked,” a red evening gown and patriotic hat, 7 by the Foley Kiwanis Club. a competitive wine tasting, at joined him for a dip. Afterward, spectators could head to Moonlight on the Mountain in Heritage Park for “Let It Snow,” the They also had a collection station to Birmingham. bring in money for Kiwanis causes. city’s annual gift of a chance for resi- In Monroeville, Kiwanians invited The Gulf Shores Police Department’s dents to play in man-made snow, guests to an Awards Night dinner, Special Olympic Torch Run also along with a village of holiday crafts, where Citizen of the Year and shared in the proceeds. music and food vendors. Kiwanian of the Year honors were The Gulf Shores club offered com- The Kiwanis Club of Gadsden announced. memorative T-shirts for purchase, and scheduled its parade for Dec. 9 with a Florence and Decatur Kiwanis clubs lunch was served at The Hangout on theme of “Christmas Around the were among those entertained with the beach. World.” Kiwanis Governor Bill Christmas music programs by youth A giant Slip ‘n’ Slide was set up on Phillips and wife, Jean, were asked to groups from the area. The Florence the beach, too. Gulf Shores Kiwanians be special guests and ride in the High School Chorus sang Christmas wanted to make their event more fam- parade. songs for Florence Kiwanians, while ily-friendly than a similar activity held The annual Hartselle Kiwanis Club the Kiwanis Club of Decatur was at the Flora-Bama. Christmas Parade through the quaint entertained by the Decatur Youth downtown with many antique and Symphony. Parades with themes gift shops was planned for Dec. 12. A Ringing bells Early in the holiday season, many tropical theme with warm undertones clubs were sponsors of the Christmas was chosen: “Hawaiian Christmas.” The Salvation Army got some bell- parades in their cities. In Bay Minette, the Kiwanis Club ringing help from many Kiwanians. The Rogersville Kiwanis Club spon- offered a peek into six local homes The Kiwanis Clubs of Anniston and sored a Dec. 7 Christmas parade with decorated for Christmas as part of its Decatur were among those signing up the theme “Holidays for Heroes,” annual “Holiday Tour of Homes.” to ring bells for a day. with all veterans invited to participate Ticket proceeds went to the club’s These are just a few of the holiday or attend. The club asked those annual Scholarship Fund. The Bay activities the Kourier noted around attending to bring toys. The fun con- Minette club also sponsored a Alabama. Next time, send your events tinued after the parade with an “Old- “Pancakes with Santa” event, with and photos to kiwaniskourier@gmail. Fashioned Christmas in Rogersville” tickets sold for $5 each. com.

Deadline for the spring edition of the online Kiwanis Kourier is April 1, 2014 Alabama Kiwanis Kourier, Winter 2014 6 April event can change lives of emerging young leaders By Jamie Brabston District Key Leader Administrator Registration for Key Leader 2014 is under way! In the words of Key Leader graduate Emme Martinez (who also serves as our liaison to the Key Club): “Key Leader is a wonderful opportunity for students to explore new ideas, accom- plish exciting challenges, build endur- ing friendships, and have fun while developing the skills to be a true ser- vant leader!” We are so excited that Emme is on our team and will be joining us at Key Leader again this year! Emerging leaders in your area must attend this exciting, fun and educa- tional weekend April 11-13, 2014, in beautiful Jackson’s Gap, Ala. Past participants from the Alabama District have described their Key Leader experience as “awesome” and “life-changing!” Students participate in a team-building exercise during the 2013 Key Participants who Leader retreat in Jackson’s Gap. attend the Key Leader weekend dent facilitators and lead other Key will return as photographer. retreat will partici- Leader participants in small groups. We need several more adult volun- pate in large and Key Leader’s mission is to inspire teers from the Alabama District to small group work- young people to achieve their person- assist with coordinating logistics and shops, discussions al best through service leadership. supervising the students. If you are and team-building Emerging leaders looking for that interested in volunteering as a chaper- activities, while extra nudge are ideal candidates for one, please let us know. This is a fun, Jamie Brabston developing leader- the Key Leader experience. There is rewarding experience for the adults, ship skills that will no limit on the number of students as well as the students. help them to change their schools, who may attend from a single school If you are interested in learning communities and world for the better. or group. Ideally, we will have repre- more, visit www.key-leader.org or They will make amazing new friends sentation from all over our District! contact me, Jamie Brabston, at and have experiences they will never This is also a wonderful opportunity [email protected] or 256- forget while exploring leadership in a to foster interest in your community if 679-6341. whole new way. you are trying to start a Key Club at Please do not miss this opportunity your local high school or increase Key Leader 2014 to make a difference in the lives of the membership in an existing club. Date: April 11-13, 2014 youth in your community! Online registration is open now; Location: Camp ASCCA in Key Leader is open to all students space is limited. See www.key-leader. Jackson’s Gap who are currently in 8th - 12th grade, org. (Some scholarships and help with Fees: Only $200 per student whether or not they are already serv- transportation may be available on a ($175 for Key Club members) ing in Key Club or Builders Club. first come, first served basis.) Includes: Two nights’ lodging, We look forward to welcoming back We are thankful to have a new site all meals and snacks, program many Key Club members who have coordinator: Sabrina Young, who has materials, a cool T-shirt and lots expressed interest in returning, participated as a chaperone in several of fun! including some who will serve as stu- past Key Leader events. Kevin Yates

Support Reading Is Fundamental with readers and donations for books and other needs Alabama Kiwanis Kourier, Winter 2014 7 Club Spotlight: Monroeville By Patrice Stewart Kiwanis Kourier editor Kiwanis and other civic clubs have definitely felt an impact from the economic downturn in recent years. But in Monroeville, Kiwanis has remained a strong presence, despite Monroe County’s unemployment rate -- the fifth highest in the state -- and loss of major forestry, textile and other industries. Lt. Gov. Margaret Murphy, a member of the Monroeville club since 1995, said the club’s membership once was 125, but the roster now hovers around 90. That’s still a number dozens of other clubs would like to claim. Many cities with much larger populations can only muster up 16 to 25 dues-paying members. What makes the difference? How does your club stack up to the Kiwanis Club of Monroeville? Monroeville officers for 2013-14 and some board members are, front, from Club president Ricky Powell thinks left: president-elect David Stewart, treasurer Toni McKelvey, Lt. Gov. “the work the community sees us do” Margaret Murphy and president Ricky Powell; back: secretary Phil Allen, is the main reason the club stays immediate past president Bob Crawford and board members Bill Lamar, strong. “Good news travels fast,” he Keith Baggett, Jonathan Dick, Allen Dunning, Rodie Ruffin (in back) and said. Tommy Wright. He listed the club’s annual pancake supper, radio day, twilight golf tour- Commerce, Boy Scouts, Pilots for Oct. 1. nament, Christmas wreath sale and Christ, Dixie Youth League, Monroe The club doesn’t rest on its past cake auction as major fundraisers. ville Area YMCA, United Way, record. Officers and members are That gets members involved and Monroeville Police Department and always on the lookout for new mem- helps fund many local projects. more. bers. On the same day new officers were Powell, who is executive director of “We are planning a membership installed last fall, checks totaling the Monroeville YMCA, joined the about $7,000 were presented to repre- Kiwanis Club of Monroeville in 2006 drive,” said Powell. “We are also hav- sentatives of the Chamber of and was installed as 2013-14 president (See MONROEVILLE, Page 8)

Monroeville club secretary Phil Allen presented flow- Monroeville club’s 2013-14 president Ricky Powell, left, ers to second-term Lt. Gov. Margaret Murphy, a member and president-elect David Stewart talk over plans for the of the Monroeville club since 1995, after she installed year. new officers.

Have questions? Call the Kiwanis District Office in Birmingham at 205-945-1334 Alabama Kiwanis Kourier, Winter 2014 8 that has kept the club strong. Monroeville “If you undertake a project for the (From Page 7) club, you know that you will have support from the members,” said ing a Past Presidents’ Day where we Murphy, a retired English instructor will invite all past presidents, active for Alabama Southern Community and inactive.” College. “Our club is unique in that we have See how your club stacks up to a group of leaders that care about our Monroeville in sponsorship of community and believe firmly in what Kiwanis youth service clubs, too. Kiwanis stands for,” said Powell. “Although Monroeville has a popu- “Our club is a close group of friends lation of only about 7,000 and that work together toward a common Monroeville is the largest town in the goal. I’m blessed to be a part of such a county, the Monroeville Kiwanis Club great group of people, and nothing is sponsors four Key Clubs and a Circle more rewarding than serving as a K Club,” Murphy said. Representa Kiwanian.” tives from the youth clubs regularly President-elect David Stewart has attend Kiwanis meetings. been a member of the Monroeville club for 31 years. The president and Always a project general manager of WMFC Radio has The club always has something served about eight years as club trea- going on, with members designated to surer and has been on and off the head each project or event, from the board of directors through the years. Bob Crawford got a past presi- Kiwanis One Day Project to the Jessie Chartered in 1947 dent’s plaque from the Kiwanis Club L. Blankenship Scholarship. Members of Monroeville. enjoy everything from Reading Is The club was formed in 1947, he Fundamental to the fall weekly foot- said. His father, the late Bill Stewart, incoming club officers at state meet- ball contest. just missed being a charter member ings. The club normally meets at noon on and joined the second week after the Treasurer Toni McKelvey has han- Tuesdays with a buffet luncheon at club was formed. He later served as dled the club’s financial duties for the Vanity Fair Golf & Tennis Club. club president and was named its many years, too. Monroeville has also hosted the dis- Man of the Year in 1968 and Citizen of Division 12 Lt. Gov. Margaret trict governor’s visit to the division the Year in 1990. Murphy is in her 19th year as a mem- for several years. “They had a very active club then, ber of the Monroeville club, which she In early December, spouses and too,” said Stewart. “The ‘Greatest said is the oldest and largest service guests are invited to the club’s annual Generation’ was running it then.” club in Monroeville and Monroe Awards Night, where Citizen of the He said the Kiwanis Club of County. She has Year and Monroeville has always been the been its member- “Our club is unique in that Kiwanian of the strongest civic club in the town that ship chairman, we have a group of leaders Year honors are also has Rotary, Civitan, Business & program chairman presented. Professional Women, and other clubs. that care about our commu- (twice), vice presi- The club even “Obviously, our membership is nity and believe firmly in dent and presi- has its own down, but I think we’ve done real what Kiwanis stands for. dent, as well as Kiwanis Men’s well to hold it together like we have,” Our club is a close group of division lieutenant Chorus to perform said Stewart. “We still have a substan- governor for two friends that work together at various events. tial number of members.” straight years. In toward a common goal.” And Monroeville fact, the Longtime club secretary —Ricky Powell, is big on interclubs Monroeville club and always sends When you find a strong, active is planning to pro- Monroeville club president a big group to dis- Kiwanis club, you will most often find vide a lieutenant trict conventions. a dedicated, knowledgeable club sec- governor for the retary who has done that job for more division four years in a row. Money is collected for the Kiwanis than a couple of years. In Monroeville “The economy has hit Monroe International Eliminate Project at each Kiwanis, that person is Phil Allen, County rather hard with the loss of club meeting. “We saved 52 lives last who has been club secretary for more some of its biggest industries, leaving week with the money collected to fight than a decade. He took that role after the county with the fifth largest unem- maternal and neonatal tetanus world- serving as president and lieutenant ployment rate in the state,” she said. wide,” said division chair Laura Allen. governor and has also been active at Many people moved away to find or Monroeville is the home club of J.W. the district level and on its Founda keep jobs. Sales, who served as district governor tion Board. While membership has dropped, she in 1992-93, and many past lieutenant Allen and Paul England, another said, “This has not affected the dedi- governors besides England and Allen. past lieutenant governor from the cation of the club’s members to ser- Kourier editor Patrice Stewart origi- Monroeville club, often help train vice to the area. It is this dedication nally joined Kiwanis there in 1991.

Email news and photos to the Kiwanis Kourier, [email protected] Alabama Kiwanis Kourier, Winter 2014 9 5-year initiative seeks WANTED membership growth

By Jamie Brabston ber of Kiwanis clubs and members in Do you love your club? our district. We want YOU to be n Certified New Club Builders I believe all Kiwanians in our Dis involved! We are currently looking for (one per division) to lead the trict do. We love serving our commu- dedicated Kiwanians to serve as effort to take Kiwanis to new com- nities and our children; we love the Certified New Club Builders and munities in their division. This fellowship and camaraderie; we love Certified Club Counselors in their person will work with the Certified leading, connecting with our commu- divisions (training will be provided). Club Counselors and Lieutenant nities and raising funds for local and For this 2013-14 year, Pat Padgett is Governor in their division to build global projects, such as elimination of the Membership Chairman, and clubs in communities that do not maternal and neonatal tetanus. Colean Black is the New Club Builder. yet benefit from Kiwanis. n Certified Club Counselors Only strong and healthy clubs can Kiwanis International and the dis- (two per division) will work with support our mission as Kiwanians. tricts are making preparations now to the New Club Builder and More Kiwanians means more strength aid the transition into the new, larger Lieutenant Governor in their divi- to fulfill all of these goals. campaign for the 2014-15 year. sion to provide mentoring and The global campaign for GROWTH Last August, Jamie Brabston was membership growth guidance to is a member-led, five-year initiative to appointed the Alabama District Chair the clubs in their division. Their increase Kiwanis membership at the for the Global Campaign for Growth primary goal will be to ensure that grassroots level. by Greg Beard, Regional Growth new clubs become independent Kiwanis will celebrate its 100th Chair for five Southern states (and the and strong. They will also mentor birthday in 2015, and through this featured speaker at Alabama’s Mid- any division clubs that are “at campaign, our clubs have the oppor- winter Conference in Prattville). risk” and have low membership. tunity and the support to be stronger She has already attended an orienta- If you have an interest in serv- than ever to welcome a new century tion meeting in Indianapolis. She ing in one of these capacities, of impact in our communities. It is hopes to identify the new certified please contact Jamie Brabston at key to this mission that we have a club builders and counselors as soon [email protected] or strong leadership structure in place as possible so they can attend a train- (256) 679-6341. that is focused on increasing the num- ing session in Atlanta April 25-26. Training in Indianapolis

Several Alabama Kiwanians braved an estimated 20 inch- es of snow and ice in Indianapolis in early January to attend annual training sessions scheduled by Kiwanis International. District secretary Pat Manasco attended training with others in her position, while Service Leadership Program administrators attended other sessions. David Womack was there for Circle K administrators’ meetings, Glenda Selman for Aktion Club, Phillip Selman for K-Kids and Kevin Yates for Builders Club. George Price and Paul Sexton could not attend Key Club training due to a schedul- ing conflict with an Alabama Key Club gathering.

Deadline for the spring edition of the online Kiwanis Kourier is April 1, 2014 Alabama Kiwanis Kourier, Winter 2014 10 Prattville (From Page 1) More about the featured speaker… gatherings are scheduled from 7:15 to Greg Beard of Alexandria, La., Madagascar to see The Eliminate 8:15 for Reading Is Fundamental, who is heading a new Kiwanis Project at work and will talk about Eliminate, past governors and past growth campaign in several that during the Interclub Luncheon. lieutenant governors. Southern states, will be the featured Beard is a former member of Buil A buffet breakfast, included in the speaker at the Alabama District’s ders Club, Key Club and Circle K. A conference registration fee, will be Mid-winter Conference in Prattville graduate of Alexandria Senior High served just before the opening general Feb. 21-22. School, he received a Bachelor of session begins. The breakfast and Beard, a Kiwanian since joining General Studies degree from Louisi meeting are scheduled from 8:30 to the Kiwanis Club of Alexandria, La., ana State University in Baton Rouge. 9:30 a.m. in 1995, earned “Distinguished” He earned his Juris Doctorate Workshop sessions honors as club president and as from Southern Law Center in Baton 2011-12 governor of the Louisiana- Rouge and is a partner with his Beard will lead two workshop ses- Mississippi-West Tennessee District. brother in Beard & Beard, LLC- sions on a new Kiwanis global growth He is a life member, a Hixson Attorneys. Beard is a member of the initiative, with Jamie Brabston of Ambassador and a Walter E. Zeller Louisiana State Bar Association and Birmingham explaining what is need- Charter Fellow. the Louisiana Cattlemen’s Asso ed from Alabama Kiwanians (see ciation and also serves as a deputy story, Page 9). As the USA-Region 2 Growth Chair for the Global Campaign for sheriff/diver for the Rapides Parish Another workshop topic club mem- Sheriff’s Department. bers will want to learn about is risk Growth, he will lead two morning management for their clubs and what workshops about this new effort. Ordained a deacon in 1999 at must be done to protect the youth Beard and his wife, Lisa, are major Calvary Baptist Church, he has Kiwanians serve, such as background gift donors to The Eliminate Project. served as chairman of the deacons checks and precautions to take when He is serving as a co-chair for The and currently serves on several driving youth to Kiwanis meetings. Eliminate Project’s Lead and Major church committees. During the two sessions of morning Gifts Committee. He recently went He and his wife have a 17-year- workshops, Kiwanians also can with a Kiwanis group to old son, Tyler. choose from topics including Circle K, Key Club, Builders Club, K-Kids, tional Kiwanis Jeopardy game with The registration fee is $75 per mem- Aktion Club, Key Leader, Reading Is prizes. ber, including the opening session Fundamental and the Alabama “Please encourage all of your club breakfast and the interclub luncheon. Kiwanis Foundation. members to come to our Mid-winter Guest tickets for the luncheon are $30 Also, club leadership training for Conference, where we are going to each. Each ticket for the casual Friday incoming club presidents and secretar- have a lot of fun, fellowship and edu- evening dinner and karaoke night will ies will be held from 9:45 to 11:30 a.m. cation,” said District Secretary Pat be $30. and completed in the afternoon from Manasco. 2:15 to 4. The deadline for Mid-winter Conference registration at $75 is Feb. The Interclub Luncheon starting at How to register 11:45 a.m. will include Hixsons, 8; a late registration fee of an addi- Zellers and other award presentations Registration with a credit card pay- tional $15 per person must be paid and the roll call of clubs. Beard, the ment can be accomplished online after Feb. 8. For information, call or featured speaker, will talk about The through a link from the district web- email Manasco at 205-945-1334 or Eliminate Project, a Kiwanis world- site, alabama.kiwanis.org (with service [email protected]. wide initiative to eradicate maternal fee added). You may prefer to print Room reservations should be made and neonatal tetanus. out a registration form (one per directly with the Legends Marriott Following the luncheon, several Kiwanian attending) and mail it to the hotel at 800-468-3571. A conference more break-out sessions are planned district office (85 Bagby Drive, Suite rate of $119 is available until Feb. 1 to at 2 p.m. Topics will include the 206, Birmingham, AL 35209) with a those mentioning Kiwanis. The hotel Kiwanis International Foundation, check. A registration form is included is located at 2500 Legends Circle, The Eliminate Project, and an educa- in this issue of the Kiwanis Kourier. Prattville, AL 36066.

Want to stay up to date with the latest infor- Profile” link in the upper righthand corner. mation from Kiwanis? Make sure Kiwanis Make sure that all of your information is cor- Update International has your current email and other rect; add a short bio if you would like, or even your information. a profile picture. records Members may now update their own informa- Most importantly, please make sure that they tion by logging in to: reporting.kiwanisone.org. have your current email address. This will help online First-time users must register using the link. us all stay in touch. Once logged in, you can click the “Update —Brian Rodgers, Governor-elect

Keep up with progress of the KI worldwide service project at www.TheEliminateProject.org Alabama Kiwanis Kourier, Winter 2014 11 ALABAMAAlabama DISTRICT District Kiwanis KIWANIS 2012 Mid-Winter Conference 2014THE LMid-winterEGENDS-MONTGOMERY MARRIOTT HOTEL ConferencePRATTVILLE, ALABAMA

The Legends-MontgomeryFebruary 21Marriott-22, 20 1Hotel,4 Prattville, Ala. Please copyFeb. and use 21-22, one registration 2014 per Kiwanian Please copy and use one registration per kiwanian Please PRINT!!

Last Name ______First Name ______

First Time Attendee: Yes ____ No ____ Are you staying at the Marriott? Circle Friday Y N Saturday Y N

Mailing Address ______

City ______State ______Zip code ______

Home Phone ______Bus. Phone ______

e-mail: ______

Kiwanis Club ______Division ______

Partner/Guest Name ______Name for Badge ______

Names and ages of Youth Attending______**************************************** EVENT NUMBER FEE TOTAL

MEMBER REGISTRATION FEE # @ $75.00 $ ______Includes Opening Session Breakfast and Inter-club Luncheon

GUEST TICKET – INTER-CLUB LUNCHEON (not a Kiwanis member) # @ $ 30.00 $______

Join Fellow Kiwanians for a Fun filled night to celebrate the success of The Great Alabama District Friday Night Fun Filled KARAOKE for ELIMINATE _#______@ $ 30.00 $ __ BANQUET TOTAL FEES ENCLOSED______$______

Late registration fee of additional 15.00 per person after February 8, 2014 Persons attending the Interclub luncheon must check in at desk at least 30 minutes prior to the start of the luncheon or lose their reservations. MAKE REGISTRATION CHECK PAYABLE TO: ALABAMA DISTRICT KIWANIS MAIL REGISTRATION TO: Alabama District Kiwanis, 85 Bagby Drive, Suite 206, Birmingham AL 35209. Reservations made will be paid since we are charged based on reservation numbers. ROOM RESERVATIONS: Reserve directly with hotel: The Legends-Montgomery Marriott Prattville 2500 Legends Circle Prattville Alabama 36066 1-(800) 468-3571 Reservations must be made no later than February 01, 2014 to receive conference rate. MENTION KIWANIS CONFERENCE TO RECEIVE CONFERENCE RATE. Rate Code: Kiwanis All single or double occupancy rate - $119.00; Triple rate - $119.00; Quad rate - $119.00, plus tax. Reservations made after February 03, 2014 will be on space available basis at full rate.

1. Make copies and fill out the form (PRINT) for each member that is going to attend, and send to the District Office.

2. Send a Check to the District Office for registration and meals requested. No one will be admitted to events who has not prepaid.

For more information, call Pat Manasco at the District Office. (205) 945-1334 [email protected], [email protected]

Put the Alabama District Kiwanis Convention on your calendars: Aug. 1-3, 2014, in Mobile Alabama Kiwanis Kourier, Winter 2014 12 April 1 is deadline for best price on Tokyo convention registration By Patrice Stewart Kiwanis Kourier editor It’s always interesting to learn about another culture, and there will be plenty of opportunities for that at the 99th Kiwanis International Convention in Tokyo-Chiba, Japan, July 17-20. Along with learning more about how Kiwanis clubs work in other parts of the world, you will get to meet members from all over and share the Kiwanis experience. one planning to attend the convention let her know. The convention will be held at the Makuhari Messe “There will be no shuttle buses this year, because all con- International Convention Complex in the city of Chiba, a vention hotels are so close to the convention center,” said suburb of Tokyo. Manasco. The Kiwanis International website convention section Kiwanis International has obtained special rates for air- has plenty of information about Japan and special packag- fare, airport transfers and four nights at a convention hotel, es for those planning to attend, along with air, hotel and including breakfast, to help members tour possibilities. Keep an eye on that save on travel costs. Tumlare site for new details added regularly. Alabama District Secre Destination Management, the official Registration can be handled online. If tary Pat Manasco asks that convention package provider, also has you plan to be a delegate for your club anyone planning to attend pre- and post-convention tour packag- and vote for the future leaders of the International Convention es for Kiwanians wishing to see more Kiwanis, as well as on proposed notify her. Special rates are of Japan, as well as Cambodia, amendments, be sure to print out the Vietnam, China and Hawaii. online certificate of election of club del- available for airfare, airport Four-night Chiba hotel and air pack- egates and alternates in advance so it transfers, hotel rooms and ages (from major U.S. gateways) start can be filled out and signed by your breakfast. Pre- and post- at $1,899 for those sharing a room, or club officials. convention tours are also $2,079 for singles (if you fly from three Registration will be $185 until April offered. major California airports, those prices 1, said Alabama District Secretary Pat drop to $1,599 and $1,789). However, Manasco, and then it goes to $235 until airline taxes and security fees are not May 15 and to $250 for those registering at the Japan con- included in those package prices and are expected to run vention center July 16 and later. She will have some con- about $585 extra. vention brochures on her exhibit table at the Mid-winter For details, watch the website: www.kiwanis.org/con- Conference in Prattville Feb. 21-22, and she asks that any- vention/2014. It’s OK to slurp your noodles and other tidbits about visiting Japan These 10 interesting tidbits about ments for Japanese-speaking custom- 8. If store clerks greet you by shout- Japan will prove useful if you attend ers. Also, slurping is fine when eating ing “Irasshaimase!” they are saying, the Kiwanis International Convention noodles. “Welcome!” And you may hear in Tokyo-Chiba, Japan, July 17-20: 5. Do not cross the street when the “kudasai” repeated often; it means 1. Tips are not expected or accepted. sign is red at an intersection in the “please.” 2. You can find toiletries and snacks convention city — even if there are no 9. You can choose to take a bus or at familiar 7-Eleven stores, or Family cars or bikes in sight. And be aware ride the metro or get a taxi. Don’t be Mart or Lawson. They sell toiletries, that bikers ride on sidewalks, but they surprised if you notice white lace slip soups, candy, beer, rice balls, skew- are skilled at avoiding pedestrians. covers over the seats of taxis. ered chicken, cigarettes, umbrellas 6. People waiting at a bus stop or and more. And you’ll also find vend- for a train will form a line. You may 10. You may see some people wearing machines everywhere, but to buy see bus employees saluting arriving ing white masks over their mouths. In cigarettes you must insert an ID to and departing buses with a deep bow. Japan, this is a common way to pro- prove age. 7. If you look lost while holding a tect against germs — and to prevent 3. Many convenience stores are map, a small crowd might form the spread of germs when one is sick. open 24 hours a day. around you to try and help. Don’t be On the streets during rush hour, com- 4. Outside restaurants, plastic fac- surprised if people go completely out panies often hand out packages of tis- similes of dishes serve both as menus of their way to help you find the place sues with their logos and business for non-Japanese speakers and entice- you were looking for. information.

Remember your annual club gift of $5 per member to the Kiwanis International Foundation Alabama Kiwanis Kourier, Winter 2014 13 400 participate in Run to Read, earn $8,400 for Jean Dean RIF

Jean Dean RIF values running right along with reading. The sixth annual Run to Read, held Nov. 2 in Opelika, netted about $8,400 for Jean Dean Reading Is Funda mental, said executive director Cathy Gafford, while about 400 people — runners and walkers and volunteers and children — had fun. Proclaimed “Run to Read Day” by Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller, the event featured 10-K and 5-K runs plus a 1½-mile walk. It also included the Clifford the Big Red Dog Dash for those 5 and under and the Ope-Lika ¼-mile sprint for children 6 to 9. Clifford the Big Red Dog was there as usual, and children also enjoyed Sparky the fire dog, a fire truck, and inflatables. A parenting fair was held for par- ents, with groups bringing resources and ideas on how to be a better par- ent, said Gafford. The Jean Dean RIF Run to Read through an Opelika historic neighborhood Alabama author and Dadeville is growing in popularity, and this year it drew about 400 people. Kiwanian C.D. Bonner visited with “We couldn’t put on this run with- an assisted living facility in Opelika, participants while selling and signing out the help of Rich Bailey, our run also will benefit Jean Dean RIF. The his book, “I Talk Slower Than I Think” director and Opelika Kiwanis mem- Emblem Club and Cambridge Place and donated all proceeds to Jean Dean ber, who makes it possible,” said put on this breakfast, Gafford said. RIF. Gafford, noting that chip timing was Jean Dean RIF, signature service Auburn mascot “Aubie” was a pop- used this year. project of the Alabama Kiwanis ular visitor, as usual. Also helping out “And we appreciate all the groups Foundation, provides three age-appro- were “Ope” and “Lika,” the mascots who help, including Auburn’s Kappa priate books a year to every Head from Opelika High School, and the Kappa Gamma, our biggest source of Start child in Alabama and many in school’s band members played the run volunteers, and Kiwanis helpers state-sponsored day care. This nation- national anthem. Cub Scout Troop 858 and others. ally recognized project has provided helped with flag ceremony at the “Our goal is to have sponsors from well over a million books to more beginning. every county for our two biggest fun- than 460,000 young children in the last “We gave overall prizes to male and draisers, because we are helping kids 23 years. female winners in each run, but we from every county.” Tax-deductible donations can be also gave prizes in eight different age The next Run to Read will be Nov. 1, made through the donate button at categories,” said Gafford, as well as 2014, in Opelika, while another big www.jeandeanrif.org or checks writ- door prizes and goodie bags. “And RIF event, the Truel Watts Ride to ten to Jean Dean RIF and mailed to this year we had a vacation door Read, will draw motorcycle enthusi- P.O. Box 848, Opelika, AL 36803-0848. prize, a week-long vacation at a asts to the Opelika area June 7, 2014. For more information, contact Hilton Head timeshare -- that’s a pret- A pancake breakfast fundraiser com- Gafford at [email protected] or ty neat door prize.” ing up March 1 at Cambridge Place, 334-750-9974.

Alabama n Mobile is planning a good time for n The Alabama District will be entertaining Kiwanians! Reserve Aug. 1-3, 2014, for Kiwanis International President Gunter Gasser of coming the Alabama summer convention at the Austria March 24-26, 2014. He will probably make events Battle House Renaissance Hotel in Mobile. stops in Birmingham and a few other places.

Registration is open online for Kiwanis International Convention in Japan July 17-20, 2014