Greetings NORTH MANATEE Kiwanians and Friends,   

Over 20 people attended Friday's very entertaining meeting.  Several members bought family as guests. Debbie brought her daughter, Erin; Mike Lubrano brought his wife Michele; John Stephens brought his daughter, Melissa.  Our very charismatic speaker, Chandler the magician, was invited by Secretary Rob Harper.  Chuck Fradley took over as Fine-Master for absent member, Brian Brown.  (Brian, we all did miss your wit and banter; have a good trip and we'll see you soon.)

 

Rob Harper gave a short report on the highpoints of last Wednesday's board meeting.  One important item discussed was a club fundraiser in the form of a 5K race.  Barbara and Lawrence Barnett have stepped forward to lead this project.  If you are interested in helping, please contact Barbara at catmba@msn.com.  Barbara and Lawrence are sure to need a few more helping hands to get this off the ground. 

 

Roger Rodriguez has 50 Super Raffle tickets left.  Be sure to purchase a few for chances to win our monthly drawings starting in March and then for the BIG prizes at our Annual Banquet in October.  Cost: $20/each.  Proceeds from this will go into our administrative account which is used to defray the costs of attending Kiwanis conventions. 

Chuck Fradley announced to all that the new Wakeland K-kids club charter has been signed and the club is ready to have its first meeting on Monday, Jan. 23rd.  Grades 1st through 5th have been invited to participate.  North Manatee Kiwanis looks forward to working with this new group of motivated youngsters!

 
DIVISION 17/18N EDUCATION DAY: On the morning of Saturday, March 3rd, Lt. Governors Debbie McNulty (Division 17) and Mary Lynn Desjarlais (Division 18N) are teaming up to present a Kiwanis Education Day.  The event will take place at the Cancer Support Community Center just off of Lakewood Ranch Blvd and University Ave. (This is the same facility at which we had the Governor Visit in October.)  Time: 8:30am-1pm.  Please pencil this in now while you can. 
 
50/50 winner - North Manatee member, Roger Rodriguez... AGAIN!
 
MEMBERSHIP News
Our second Membership Meeting of the year is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 24th.  Our featured speaker will be past Florida Kiwanis Governor Bob Fowinkle. Please take a few minutes to think about who you might be able to invite.  Remember our goal this year was to reach 35 members by October 1st.  
 
KEY CLUB News  
The PHS Key Club spent last Wednesday raising money by parking cars at the Manatee County Fair to support the Teachers and Staff at Palmetto High School.  With the help of Key Club advisors, Chuck Collins and Julie Anne Williams, the Key Club members were able to park approximately 280 cars, completed 27 man hours and raised approximately $1200 dollars for their school.

BUILDERS CLUB News
No meeting this past Thursday due to short school week.
 
K-Kids News
Palm View K-kids:   

Palm View K-kids had 19 in attendance at Tuesday's morning meeting. They will be selling Candy Grams the week of February 6th-13th and in March they will partner with Rosemary in their front office to participate in the Relay for Life event. Then again in April, the club will sell candy grams and the monies made will go toward Easter baskets for the Rubonia Day Care.

 
Blackburn K-kids:

Well attended meeting this week with about 20 members. The meeting was opened and conducted expertly by President Grace and Secretary Avery, with a financial report from the treasurer.

 

The club was very well-received at hospice in December when they delivered "goody baskets." It was decided to refill the baskets each month, and members were asked to bring in donations of drinks, snacks, etc for the purpose.

 

Secretary Avery suggested early elections of the new officers, since all the present ones are 5th-graders. That way there would be time for cross-training.

Next meeting February 8th. 
 
INTERCLUB News  
Since out last Interclub at the Bradenton club did not have enough people to officially count (we need 3 member to attend but we only had 2), another Bradenton visit has been planned for Tuesday, January 31st, noon at the Bradenton Kiwanis Hall on 14th St. W.  We only have Deb and Chuck C. signed up with Bob M as a possible.  Please check your schedules and contact Roger Rodriguez, rbrodriguez4370@tampabay.rr.com if you are able to attend.

 

Our February Interclub will be with the Cortez Club on Friday, February 10th, 7;30am. They meet at Fia's Restaurant, (previously known as Gloria's Restaurant) just off of Cortez Rd in the same shopping center as McDonald's.  Presently we have 7 members signed up- Roger, Liva, Bob, Mike, Chuck C, Kevin and Deb.

 

If you have any suggestions on where else you would like to visit, contact Interclub Chairman, Roger Rodriguez (rbrodriguez4370@tampabay.rr.com).
 
PROGRAMS/SPEAKERS schedule
* Jan 27 - Melissa Porter, Manatee Village Historical Park
* Feb 3 - Cindy Eliason, Adopt A Family
* Feb 10- no speaker scheduled (Cortez Interclub planned)
* Feb 17- Donna Valenga, Solve Maternity Homes 

* Feb 24- MEMBERSHIP MEETING

* Mar 2 -  TBA

* Mar 9 - Jeff Steele, Hydrogen
 
If you have anyone in mind to speak at one of our club meetings, please see Lindell (lindelljcorrell@aol.com) for available dates.
 
UPCOMING EVENTS- Mark your calendars!
* Saturday, March 3- Div 17/18N Kiwanis Education Day, Cancer Support Community Center  8:30am-1pm
* Saturday, March 24 - Better Manatee Day
* Thursday, May 3 - Prayer Breakfast
 
 
PAST EVENTS
On Saturday, Jan. 21st, North Manatee members attended the Wakeland Elementary International Food Festival to sell good ol' American cuisine (hot dogs/chips and burgers/chips $2) to raise some money for our Community Service fund. Peter Ruscoe delivered supplies.  Mary Stinson and Bob MacDonald did most of the selling; Jim Eliason and Mike Lubrano were the designated "Grill Masters" and did all of the cooking,   Barbara Barnett and Rob Harper were switch hitting with both wrapping and selling, though Mike also switched off between cooking and wrapping.  Chuck was only trained to wrap.  Jim pulled the event coordinating the setup and bar-B-Q. Mary pulled off the style statement with high-heel boots!

Sales went well since they cooked and sold all but a few hot dogs and hamburgers. Thanks to all who participated!

 
PROGRAM/SPEAKER 
What an entertaining speaker we had on Friday!  Chandler the Magician, who has performed national acts on the road for major corporations, showed us tricks with cards, ropes and incredible feats of memory.   He first explained to us all that no one can predict the future and no one can communicate with the dead.  However, there were a few amazing things that he could show us.

 

First he asked Erin to pick a card from a deck and mark it in some unique manner.  Then he asked her to put in back in the deck, place the deck back in its box and then put the box into a bag.  Chandler then was able to reach into the bag and pull out Erin's card!

 

Don Kyzer was then asked to pick a card from the deck, mark it and then put it back in the deck.  After some banter and joking around, Chandler reached into his wallet and took out a small envelope from a zippered pocket.  In it, was Don's card!

 

Next Chandler showed us all an amazing act of memory- he split the deck in two and gave one part to Don Kyzer, the other to Chuck Fradley.  Then Chandler looked only at Don's cards.  Once he was sure he knew them, he proved to us all that he could name all of the cards in, not only Don's pile, but also in Chuck's!

 

Chandler called on Chuck Collins next and asked him to open a book, (one that Chandler had said he had memorized), and pick out a word on one of the pages, a big word.  Then Chuck was asked to think hard about what the word was.  Letter by letter, Chandler spelled out the word until he revealed that the selected word was "receptionist".  Amazing!

 

Finally Debbie was selected to help out with a few rope tricks, one of which demonstrated how tying the ends of two ropes together miraculously created a brand new long rope.

 

All in attendance were sad to see the meeting end.  Everyone so enjoyed the magician's tricks! 

 

Thank you Chandler for coming in to entertain and amaze us.

CLOSING REMARKS  

Those of you who attended last week's meeting are probably still saying "how did he DO that?" Some of you who do not attend often are really losing out on a treat. We have great programs, some of which, like Friday's, you would have to pay big bucks to see elsewhere. In addition, attendance at meetings (and participation in projects) shows your fellow members that you share the vision of our club.
 
We are coming into a season of high activity for our club - conferences, projects, meetings, etc. Please get involved, and catch the spirit of the Kiwanis Club of North Manatee.

 
Until Friday,
Peter Ruscoe- President

Greetings NORTH MANATEE Kiwanians and Friends,  

Great meeting with several special guests- Barb Brisley from the West Bradenton Kiwanis club, Mike Lubrano's daughter, Gabby, and Blackburn principal, Kathy Redmond (guest of Chuck Fradley).  Gabby is selling girl scout cookies and passed around an order sheet.  We can also purchase boxes of cookies that will be sent to troops.  If you were not at Friday's meeting but would like to order cookies, contact Mike at mikel3033@gmail.com.

 

At last week's visit to the Bradenton club, Peter was presented the "HOME CLUB" banner for the Foundation Trustee for Division 17. North Manatee member John Stephens is serving in that post for the next 2 years.  That's right!  Our club has both the Home Club banners for the Foundation Trustee AND the Lt. Governor.

 

Lt. Gov. Debbie McNulty held a Presidents' Meeting on the 11th to make several announcements-

- N. Manatee member, Chuck Collins is her official Division SLP coordinator

- N. Manatee member, Liva Serterides, is her official Division Membership coordinator

- Deb is still looking for someone to take the position of Division Eliminate Project coordinator

- in August Debbie will be stepping down as Lt. Gov so those interested in that position for the 2012-2013 year should please contact her soon.  A selection needs to be made by March 1st. To qualify, you must have served as a Kiwanis Club president.

 
Roger Rodriguez has 50 Super Raffle tickets left.  Be sure to purchase a few for chances to win our monthly drawings starting in March and then for the BIG prizes at our Annual Banquet in October.  Cost: $20/each.  Proceeds from this will go into our administrative account which is used to defray the costs of attending Kiwanis conventions. 

 
President Peter Ruscoe reminded everyone that this year's Kiwanis International Convention will be in New Orleans, June 28th-July 1st. Details can be found at http://sites.kiwanis.org/Kiwanis/en/NewOrleansConvention/Home.aspx.  If you have specific questions, contact Lt. Gov. Debbie McNulty at Div17LtGov@gmail.com.  And YES, Debbie is planning to attend!

 

DIVISION 17/18N EDUCATION DAY: On the morning of Saturday, March 3rd, Lt. Governors Debbie McNulty (Division 17) and Mary Lynn Desjarlais (Division 18N) are teaming up to present a Kiwanis Education Day.  The event will take place at the Cancer Support Community Center just off of Lakewood Ranch Blvd and University Ave. (This is the same facility at which we had the Governor Visit in October.)  Time: 8:30am-1pm.  Please pencil this in now while you can.

 

Thanks to Jim Eliason for stepping up as the coordinator for the International Food Festival at Wakeland Elementary.  We will be cooking and selling hamburgers, hot dogs and chips.  The money raised with go into our Community Service fund.  Jim passed around a sign-up sheet and what an enthusiastic response!  We already have 8 people signed up!

REMINDER: Board meeting, January 18th at Papa Nick's, 6:15pm.
 
50/50 winner - North Manatee member, Roger Rodriguez

 
MEMBERSHIP News
If you have been to our recent Friday meetings and have noticed a fellow North Manatee member who has been absent for awhile, give them a call and invite them back for a fun-filled, Friday breakfast.  We are 28 members strong.  Let's get a few more of those members out to see us Friday mornings.

 

KEY CLUB News   
The Palmetto Key Club has a few service projects lined up in the next month or so:

- Assisting with County Fair Parking after school on Wed, Jan. 18th

- Kids Against Hunger Packing Event at Bradenton Kiwanis Hall on Feb. 11th

- Shamrock Sales to benefit Muscular Dystrophy

BUILDERS CLUB News 
The Buffalo Creek Builders Club had a very productive meeting Thursday. With 16 members attending, they discussed plans to help with the Virgil Mills 5K Run planned for February 11th.  The club is also getting ready for their annual Valentine's Day Carnation Sales fundraiser and is also planning a visit to a retirement home where they will deliver some sort of treat to the residents.

 
K-Kids News
Palm View K-kids:  

No update this week.

 

Blackburn K-kids:

The first meeting of 2012 is scheduled for noon on Wednesday January 18th. The objective at that time will be to organize the upcoming candygrams project, and also to discuss possible fund raisers, since they have not yet had a fund-raiser specifically for the club. 
 
INTERCLUB News   
Our next official Interclub will be with the Cortez Club on Friday, February 10th, 7;30am. They meet at Fia's Restaurant, (previously known as Gloria's Restaurant) just off of Cortez Rd in the same shopping center as McDonalds.

If you have any suggestions on where else you would like to visit, contact Interclub Chairman, Roger Rodriguez (rbrodriguez4370@tampabay.rr.com).
 
PROGRAMS/SPEAKERS schedule
* Jan 20 - Chandler - Magic!
* Jan 27 - Melissa Porter, Manatee Village Historical Park
* Feb 3 - Cindy Eliason, Adopt A Family
* Feb 10- no speaker scheduled (Cortez Interclub planned)
* Feb 17- Donna Valenga, Solve Maternity Homes
 
If you have anyone in mind to speak at one of our club meetings, please see Lindell (lindelljcorrell@aol.com) for available dates.
 
UPCOMING EVENTS- Mark your calendars!
* Wednesday, January 18 - Board Meeting, Papa Nicks Restaurant, 6:15pm

* Saturday, January 21 - International Food Festival at Wakeland Elementary- Jim, Mary, Bob, Matt, Liva, Barb, Chuck C. Mike L. and Rob.
* Saturday, March 3- Div 17/18N Kiwanis Education Day, Cancer Support Community Center  8:30am-1pm

* Saturday, March 24 - Better Manatee Day

* Thursday, May 3 - Prayer Breakfast

 
 
PAST EVENTS 
None to report this week 
 
PROGRAM/SPEAKER

 

 

 

 

 
CLOSING REMARKS  
Friday's meeting was a lively event, with the room so full that the attendees couldn't even pull their usual trick of sitting as far away from the podium as possible! Due to the technical savvy of our speaker, we learned that the restaurant's new video screen does, in fact, work perfectly for presenters, so bear that in mind if a speaker wants "video capability."

 

Hope to see you Friday,

Greetings NORTH MANATEE Kiwanians and Friends, 
What a meeting!  Close to 25 people attended including a special guest from the Tallahassee area, Tommy Mills, Div. 3 Lt. Governor.  Attendees also included  Snowbirds Bob, Alex and Reg.  (All three were happy to be down south with us!)  Alex Weatherhead, Jessica Geisler and Audrey Tappan from Palmetto High School's JROTC joined us as our program.
 
Roger Rodriguez has 52 Super Raffle tickets left.  Be sure to purchase a few for chances to win our monthly drawings starting in March and then for the BIG prizes at our Annual Banquet in October.  Cost: $20/each.  Proceeds from this will go into our administrative account which is used to defray the costs of attending Kiwanis conventions. Div.3 Lt. Gov. Tommy Mills bought a ticket and then donated it back to the club.  Thanks, Tommy!

 

Last week Gordon Wardell from the LWR Kiwanis club visited our club and asked if any of us could help out at their Wrestling Tournament at LWR High School on Jan 7th.  Chuck Collins, Rob Harper and Lawrence Barnett volunteered.  Apparently the event was a huge success; check out the Past Projects section below for details.
 
ANNOUNCEMENT: January's board meeting is set for the 18th at Papa Nick's, 6:15pm.

 

50/50 winner - North Manatee member, Kevin Geisler
 
MEMBERSHIP News
If you have been to our recent Friday meetings and have noticed a fellow North Manatee member who has been absent for awhile, give them a call and invite them back for a fun-filled, Friday breakfast.  We are 28 members strong.  Let's get a few more of those members out to see us Friday mornings.

KEY CLUB News  
Last Thursday night Peter Ruscoe and Roger Rodriguez joined Key Club advsors Debbie McNulty and Chuck Collins at Palmetto High School's Open House night.  All four were on hand to help president Brittney and VP Stephanie explain "Key Club 101". During the course of the evening, this "K-team" spoke to many 8th grade students and their parents.  Everyone agreed the event was a big success!
 
BUILDERS CLUB News 
At their first meeting of 2012, the Builders Club decided to sell carnations for Valentine's Day (all proceeds go to a children's home) and then they brainstormed ideas for visiting the Woodlands Retirement Home.  Also, Ms. Rubin received information about a 5K run that Mills Elementary is organizing on Sat. 2/11.  The club has already been contacted by the Mills PTO President so Builders Club has signed up to help.

 
K-Kids News
Palm View K-kids:  
No report this week.

Blackburn K-kids:
No meeting just yet.  We hope to hear back from them next week. 
 
INTERCLUB News  
Tuesday afternoon, Peter Ruscoe and Debbie McNulty joined the Bradenton club for lunch.  Bradenton President Brenda Rodgers announced 2 special upcoming events- Feb 11th, Kids Against Hunger Packing Project and March 24, Better Manatee Day.  Their speaker for the day was John Ziemnicki and Mary Cantrell from the Manatee Technical Institute.

 

Past Kiwanis Foundation Trustee Lu Files officially presented the Foundation Trustee Home Banner to North Manatee's president Peter Ruscoe in honor of North Manatee member, John Stephens.

 
If you have any suggestions on where else you would like to visit, contact Interclub Chairman, Roger Rodriguez (rbrodriguez4370@tampabay.rr.com).
 
PROGRAMS/SPEAKERS schedule
* Jan 13 - Timothy W. Blend, MD- Medical Director of the Blend Institute
* Jan 20 - Chandler - Magic!
* Jan 27 - Melissa Porter, Manatee Village Historical Park
* Feb 3 - Cindy Eliason, Adopt A Family
* Feb 10- no speaker scheduled (Cortez Interclub planned)
* Feb 17- Donna Valenga, Solve Maternity Homes
 
If you have anyone in mind to speak at one of our club meetings, please see Lindell (lindelljcorrell@aol.com) for available dates.
 
UPCOMING EVENTS- Mark your calendars!
* Saturday, January 21 - International Food Festival at Wakeland Elementary
* Saturday, February 18- Div 17/18N Kiwanis Education Day, Cancer Support Community Center  8:30am-1pm
 
 
PAST EVENTS
Eagle Scout Award

Saturday afternoon, at the First United Methodist Church in Palmetto, Marshall Eckford presented a special award on behalf of our club to Tim Foote.  Tim just completed all of the duties to earn the honor of becoming an Eagle Scout.  Last year, our club contributed money to Tim for use on his Eagle Scout project.  We are also proud to say that Marshall is also an Eagle Scout.

 

Eagle Scout is the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouting program of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA). A Scout who attains this rank is called an Eagle Scout or Eagle. Since its introduction in 1911, the Eagle Scout rank has been earned by more than 2 million young men. The title of Eagle Scout is held for life, thus giving rise to the phrase "Once an Eagle, always an Eagle".

 

Requirements include earning at least 21 merit badges and demonstrating Scout Spirit through the Boy Scout Oath and Law, service, and leadership. This includes an extensive service project that the Scout plans, organizes, leads, and manages. Eagle Scouts are presented with a medal and a badge that visibly recognizes the accomplishments of the Scout. Additional recognition can be earned through Eagle Palms, awarded for completing additional tenure, leadership, and merit badge requirements. Some such awards that are given are letters from the Air Force, Army, Supreme Court, and even the President of the United States.

 

LWR Wrestling Tournament

On Saturday, Chuck Collins, Rob Harper and Lawrence Barnett took time out of their Saturday morning to help the LWR Kiwanis Club with their Wrestling Tournament at Lakewood Ranch High School. Their job was to support the scoring team which was composed of 3-4 students. One student or adult’s job was that of a tapper (simply tap the referee on the back when the match was over), one machine scorer, and 1-2 scorers who completed a hand written form. It was fast and all of them had to stay focused.  Chuck, Rob and Lawrence enjoyed working with the students who did an incredible job keeping the matches running smoothly (though LWR Kiwanis President Gordon Wardell had a lot to do with the efficiency of the whole day!)  Great job Chuck, Rob and Lawrence!

 

 
PROGRAM/SPEAKER
Battalion Commander Cadet Lt. Col. Alex Weatherhead, Executive Officer Cadet Major Jessica Geisler and Cadet Audrey Tappan from Palmetto High School's JROTC program came in to speak to our members about how the JROTC program benefits the young men and women who participate.  The Palmetto High School JROTC program not only instills cadets with the values of leadership, responsibility, and motivation but it also provides a foundation of our nation's history.  Basic concepts such as First Aid and knowledge that will prepare them to be successful in life are taught.  

 

The Palmetto JROTC has 5 competitive teams-

- Raiders: physical competition with push-ups, sit-ups, mile run, rope bridge, litter carry, land navigation and obstacle course

- Drill: exhibition and marching competition with 8.5lb rifles

- Rifle: shooting competition in the prone, kneeling and standing positions

- Color Guard: team consists of their most highly skilled drill team members

- Academic: cadets compete in tests that challenge their abilities in leadership, math, english and political information

The cadets also participate in community service projects such as cleaning up the Fairgrounds and volunteering at the Sysco company picnic.

 

The Palmetto JROTC, a part of the Business, Law and Leadership Academy, is the largest organization on the PHS campus with 246 cadets.

 

Thank you all for coming to speak to us about your very successful program.

  
CLOSING REMARKS 
Now that the holidays are behind us, it is time to get ready for the upcoming projects and events for the new year.  We have the Wakeland Elementary International Food Festival just around the corner as a little fundraiser and Lt. Gov. Debbie McNulty is planning this year's Kiwanis Education Day in February.  Better Manatee Day is planned for March 24th and the International Convention to be held in Orleans is at the end of June.  

 

At the start of the Kiwanis year, the club agreed to support projects focused helping the homeless (in particular, the children!).  Now is the time to get those going.  Please come to me with your ideas so we can put them into motion.

 

In the meantime, please do your best to attend our Friday meetings for some K-family camaraderie and fun.

 

Hope to see you Friday,

 

 

 

 
50/50 winner - Last week, Chuck Collins; this week, Lindell Correll 
 
MEMBERSHIP News
Currently our club has 28 members.  President Peter's goal this year is to increase our membership to 35.  We are off to a good start with our membership meeting this month- Don Kyzer turned in his application and we had several other guests express interest in learning more about us. 
 
Please don't hesitate to invite friends, family, neighbors, and/or coworkers to attend one of our Friday meetings.  The more "helping hands" we have, the more good we can do for the children of Manatee County. Specific questions of membership can be directed to our 2011-2012 Membership Chairman, Kevin Geisler-  keving_cpa@hotmail.com.
 
KEY CLUB News   
Advisor Debbie McNulty has been busy putting together a tri-fold display board highlighting Key Club and their activities. Palmetto High School's special Freshman Orientation (designed to promote their school for "School Choice") is set for January 5th. Ms. Williams' room will be one of the "stops" on the tour to showcase Key Club and Kiwanis.

 

If any of our members are available for an hour or two Thursday night, Key Club advisors Debbie and Chuck would love to have to join them at PHS to help promote Kiwanis and Key Club.  Meet in the PHS front office at 6pm or contact Debbie (debmcnulty@gmail.com) or Chuck (cecolli67@gmail.com)
 
BUILDERS CLUB News
No meeting this past week due to the holidays.
 
K-Kids News
Palm View K-kids:  
No meeting this past week due to the holidays.
 
Blackburn K-kids:
No meeting this past week due to the holidays.
 
 
INTERCLUB News  
Great job everyone!  We are well on our way to making the rounds to all of the Division 17 clubs.  Our visit to Anna Maria Island Kiwanis was the last one for 2011. 
 
Our first Interclub of 2012 will be Bradenton Kiwanis on Tuesday, January 10th at noon.  Peter, Mary, Chuck C and Debbie signed up to attend.
 
If you have any suggestions on where else you would like to visit, contact Interclub Chairman, Roger Rodriguez (rbrodriguez4370@tampabay.rr.com).

 
PROGRAMS/SPEAKERS schedule
* Jan 6 - Palmetto H.S. JROTC
* Jan 13 - Timothy W. Blend, MD- Medical Director of the Blend Institute

* Jan 20 - Chandler - Magic! 

* Jan 27 - Melissa Porter, Manatee Village Historical Park

* Feb 3 - Adopt A Family

* Feb 10- TBA

* Feb 17- Donna Valenga, Solve Maternity Homes
 
If you have anyone in mind to speak at one of our club meetings, please see Lindell (lindelljcorrell@aol.com) for available dates.
 
UPCOMING EVENTS- Mark your calendars!
* Saturday, January 21 - International Food Festival at Wakeland Elementary
* Saturday, February 18- Div 17/18N Kiwanis Education Day, Cancer Support Community Center  8:30am-1pm
 
 
PAST EVENTS
None to report this week. 
 
PROGRAM/SPEAKER
No program this week.  
 
CLOSING REMARKS 
Well, how was 2011? Yes, I know --- we probably don't want to hear ALL you feedback! But I firmly believe that we personally, the club and as a nation have much to look forward to in 2012. Let's make the effort to drive our future success, rather than letting the economy and those around us define it for us. I believe in you, my fellow Kiwanians! Let's make 2012 the best yet!

 

Happy New Year!
Peter Ruscoe- President

Greetings NORTH MANATEE Kiwanians and Friends,  

Impressive attendance for a meeting just days before Christmas- we had 11 members and 5 guests. Peter, Lindell, Kevin, John S, Mike L, Roger, Chuck C, Bob S, Bob M, Eric and Brian managed to fit the Friday meeting into their busy schedules.  Kevin, Peter and Mike L brought their lovely wives, Carolyn, Mary Martha, and Michele.  John Stephens brought his daughter, Melissa and Eric brought his son, Eli.

 

For some holiday fun, President Peter handed out a Christmas Trivia Quiz. There were prizes for the winners and even for the loser!

 

Chuck said that Solve really needs a counter top ice maker, and asked us to consider purchasing it for them. We'll address it at the next meeting. 

 

John Stephens' daughter, Melissa works at the Manatee Historical Park. She said that on March 17th, they will have a special celebration there as part of Manatee Heritage Days. She invited us to be a food vendor. We asked whether we would have a lot of competition and she said no - they had learned from past experience not to double-up on vendors. So there may be people selling drinks, ice creams etc, but probably we'll be the only hot food vendor. This item will be definitely be discussed by the Board at their January meeting. 

 

50/50 winner - Oops! Peter forgot to write it down. However, another ticket was drawn to win a copy of the book that Eli has written, and is to be published soon.  Very impressive for a school-age student!  Way to go, Eli! 
 
MEMBERSHIP News
Currently our club has 28 members.  President Peter's goal this year is to increase our membership to 35.  We are off to a good start with our membership meeting this month- Don Kyzer turned in his application and we had several other guests express interest in learning more about us. 

 

Please don't hesitate to invite friends, family, neighbors, and/or coworkers to attend one of our Friday meetings.  The more "helping hands" we have, the more good we can do for the children of Manatee County. Specific questions of membership can be directed to our 2011-2012 Membership Chairman, Kevin Geisler-  keving_cpa@hotmail.com.
 
KEY CLUB News   
No meeting this past week due to the holidays but advisors Debbie McNulty and Chuck Collins will be busy over the break putting together a tri-fold display board highlighting Key Club and their activities. They will be participating in Palmetto High School's special Freshman Orientation (designed to promote their school for "School Choice") on January 5th. Ms. Williams' room will be one of the "stops" on the tour to showcase Key Club and Kiwanis.

 
BUILDERS CLUB News 
No meeting this past week due to the holidays. 
 
K-Kids News
Palm View K-kids:   
No meeting this past week due to the holidays.

 
Blackburn K-kids: 
No meeting this past week due to the holidays. 
 
 
INTERCLUB News   
Great job everyone!  We are well on our way to making the rounds to all of the Division 17 clubs.  Our visit to Anna Maria Island Kiwanis was the last one for 2011. 

 

Our first Interclub of 2012 will be Bradenton Kiwanis on Tuesday, January 10th at noon.

 

If you have any suggestions on where else you would like to visit, contact Interclub Chairman, Roger Rodriguez (rbrodriguez4370@tampabay.rr.com).

 
PROGRAMS/SPEAKERS schedule
* Dec 30 - no speaker scheduled
* Jan 6 - Palmetto H.S. JROTC
* Jan 13 - Timothy W. Blend, MD- Medical Director of the Blend Institute
 
If you have anyone in mind to speak at one of our club meetings, please see Lindell (lindelljcorrell@aol.com) for available dates.
 
UPCOMING EVENTS- Mark your calendars!
* Saturday, January 21 - International Food Festival at Wakeland Elementary
* Saturday, February 18- Div 17/18N Kiwanis Education Day, Cancer Support Community Center  8:30am-1pm
 
 
PAST EVENTS
None to report this week. 
 
PROGRAM/SPEAKER
No program this week.   
 

 

Very well attended meeting Friday with 17 members and 5 guests.  Erin McNulty was able to attend since Manatee H.S. opted for a modified schedule for Friday. (Classes didn't start until 8:30am)  Long time Kiwanis friend, Don Kyzer, joined us for breakfast along with our speaker, Norman Olshansky from the Van Wezel Foundation.

 

President Peter Ruscoe and Secretary Rob Harper reported on the recent board meeting.  A few of the highlights included official approval of the Wakeland Elementary International Food Festival project, discussion on added support of the Manatee SOLVE organization and approval for presenting a North Manatee Kiwanis Award to a local youth who just earned Eagle Scout status.
 

One important goal for our club this year is to plan an official fundraiser.  We need members to step forward to be on a Fundraiser Committee, not to chair a project but to present ideas to the club on possible fundraiser projects.  If you are interested in helping out with this, please contact either Peter Ruscoe or Kevin Geisler.

 

50/50 winner - N. Manatee Member, John Stephens

 
MEMBERSHIP News
Welcome to Don Kyzer who turned in his membership application just last week.  Membership chairman, Kevin Geisler, will be meeting with him soon to discuss our club's membership requirements and to get an idea of what types of community service interest him the most.

If you know of anyone who might be interested in learning about what we do, please invite them to attend one of our meetings.  Specific questions of membership can be directed to our 2011-2012 Membership Chairman, Kevin Geisler-  keving_cpa@hotmail.com.
 
KEY CLUB News  
Last Wednesday was Palmetto Key Club's last meeting of 2011.  Eight members attended.  Advisor Julie Williams announced a couple of volunteer opportunities- 12/17 Sysco Christmas Festival, 12/20 Mt Carmel Community Center Food Distribution.  

 

The club is also planning to volunteer their time to helping park cars at the Manatee County Fair on January 18th. 

 

On January 5th, Palmetto High School will have a special Freshman Orientation (designed to promote their school for "School Choice")  Ms. Williams' room will be one of the "stops" on the tour to showcase Key Club and Kiwanis.  Advisors Debbie McNulty and Chuck Collins will be there with a tri-fold display board and lots of enthusiasm to show the visitors the merits of Key Club.
 
BUILDERS CLUB News 
Buffalo Creek Builders club combined their last meeting of 2011 with a holiday party AND a Toy for Tots collection project.  Advisors Debbie McNulty and John Stephens praised the students on their participation with Breakfast wtih Santa and their overall enthusiasm to help the community. 
 
K-Kids News
Palm View K-kids:  
Last Wednesday the entire club went across the street from the school and sang Christmas carols in the Club House.

The residents made special goodies for us and club members socialized for a while with them then sang a couple more songs before caroling their way back to school.  The members also made goody bags which were presented by Santa to everyone!  It was priceless to watch the kids sitting and socializing with everyone, I'm not sure who recieved the biggest reward!!

 

Blackburn K-kids: 
Blackburn K-kids met Wednesday. They drew pictures to be delivered to a local Hospice on Dec 16th. The club had elections for Treasurer (Mikayla Calhoun) and Vice President (Katrina Ramiriz).  Since Katrina is a 5th grader and won't be at Blackburn next year, the club will likely also select a President-Elect from the 4th grade nominees to serve along side the VP. 

 

 
INTERCLUB News   
Very well attended interclub at Anna Maria Island Kiwanis on Saturday.  All told we had 10 North Manatee representative attend- Peter and his wife Mary Martha, Chuck Collins, Brian, Roger, Liva, Barb and Lawrence, Debbie and her daughter, Erin.  The meeting's program was Neil Fonelli, the publisher of the quarterly magazine, "Taste- Dining and Travel".

 

AMI Kiwanis is busy working with the Salvation Army by providing "Bell Ringers".  They help out in front of the AMI Publix.  Past President, Sandy, announced that plans are well under way for their annual Valentine's Day Dance at the AMI Community Center on Feb. 9th.  Tickets are $15 and all proceeds go to the Community Center. 

 

To get everyone in the holiday spirit, song leader (and Treasurer) Susie Kruse led the group in "Jingle Bell Rock" and "Do You Hear What I Hear".  A great time was had by all.

 

This was the last Interclub of 2011.  For suggestion's for January's choice, contact Interclub Chairman, Roger Rodriguez (rbrodriguez4370@tampabay.rr.com).
 
PROGRAMS/SPEAKERS schedule
* Dec 23 - no speaker scheduled
* Dec 30 - no speaker scheduled
* Jan 6 - Palmetto H.S. JROTC
* Jan 13 - Timothy W. Blend, MD- Medical Director of the Blend Institute
 
If you have anyone in mind to speak at one of our club meetings, please see Lindell (lindelljcorrell@aol.com) for available dates.
 
UPCOMING EVENTS- Mark your calendars!
* Saturday, January 21 - International Food Festival at Wakeland Elementary

* Saturday, February 18- Div 17/18N Kiwanis Education Day, Cancer Support Community Center  8:30am-1pm
 
 
PAST EVENTS
None to report this week.  
 
PROGRAM/SPEAKER
 
Norman Olshansky, President and CEO of the Van Wezel Foundation, spoke to us about how his organization reaches out to the community.  The Van Wezel Foundation is set up as a 501-c3 while the actual Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is operated by the city of Sarasota.

 

The foundation is setup to support the community aspects of the hall. Their mission is "to enrich the lives of members of the Gulf Coast community, with an emphasis on children, through the performing arts while supporting the needs of the Van Wezel- the region's premier performing arts hall." According to Mr. Olshansky, the foundation touches the lives of 25,000 school children a year through various workshops and programs.  About 40% of these children are from Manatee County.  The foundation partners with the Manatee County schools to not only educate the students but the teachers too.  One workshop trains teachers how to use "performing arts techniques" to make other subjects more fun to learn.

 

In addition to the teachers/children's programs, the foundation provides Community Outreach Ticketing which supplies tickets to individuals who could not normally attend such performances.  Several free concerts in Manatee and Sarasota counties are funded by the foundation as well.

 

To learn more about the Performing Arts Center go to http://www.vanwezel.org/boxOffice/eventCalendar.cfm

To learn more about the Van Wezel Founation, look here - http://www.vwfoundation.org/

 

Thank you, Norman, for taking the time to speak to us about the unique way that your foundation touches the lives of children.

 

CLOSING REMARKS 

I am SO pleased with how 2011 has turned out for our club. We've had enthusiasm, potential new members, and most of all FUN! But, in all seriousness, that is not the focus of Kiwanis, or our club. We exist primarily to serve others, and I'm happy to say that we have had the opportunity to see and hear about children's smiles - our mission.

 

Let us keep that in mind in the coming week - it's all about giving and children. Is there something you can still do outside of the ordinary to make a brighter Christmas for a child? Then DO it -- now!

Greetings NORTH MANATEE Kiwanians and Friends,  

Very successful Membership Meeting last Friday!  The meeting was well attended with 15 members and several guests. In Brian's absence, Mike Lubrano did an excellent job as Fine Master. 

We also had a special visit from members of the West Bradenton Club.  Welcome to Barb Brisley, Ross Edwards and Pam Edwards.  How wonderful to have you interclub with us.

Upcoming Interclubs-
  * Saturday 12/17, with Anna Maria Island Kiwanis, 8:30am at Cafe on the Beach Restaurant, 4000 Gulf Drive on Anna Maria Island

 50/50 winner - N. Manatee Member, Barbara Barnett
 
MEMBERSHIP News

Many thanks to John Stephens for his excellent presentation on the history of our club and on the Kiwanis organization.  John brought three guests, Keith, Jacob and Ben Durrance, Jack Gay's son-in-law and and his two sons.  Roger Rodriguez brought Nestor Leveque from Manatee Glens. He also knows North Manatee member, Mary Stinson.  We hope to see them all back at another of our Friday meetings. 

Bob Terry, our speaker from a couple of weeks ago, expressed interest in learning more about us but he was unable to make the Membership meeting.  Perhaps he will be able to join us again soon.

If you know of anyone who might be interested in learning about what we do, please invite them to attend one of our meetings.  Specific questions of membership can be directed to our 2011-2012 Membership Chairman, Kevin Geisler-  keving_cpa@hotmail.com.

 
KEY CLUB News   
Chuck Collins attended last Wednesday's Key Club meeting in place of Kiwanis Advisor Debbie McNulty.  Meeting was small, only 8 members attending, but Key Clubber, Josh, gave a report on his (and Robert's) participation at the Division Project meeting with Lt. Gov. Jackie Aranibar, last week. 

 
Meanwhile, across the country, in California, Debbie McNulty, attended the Brea Kiwanis meeting and had the pleasure of meeting two of the Brea Olinda Key Club members- Michelle Lu (Treasurer) and Marisa Kuriki (Bulletin Editor).  Marisa provides the Key Club updates reported in Brea Kiwanis' weekly newsletter.

 
BUILDERS CLUB News 
Peter Ruscoe attended Thursday's meeting to recruit help for Breakfast with Santa.  Apparently he was given a grand welcome since 11 Builders Club members showed up to help Saturday morning.  The members helped with serving food, clearing tables and assisting Santa.  How wonderful to see so many middle-schoolers give up their Saturday morning to give back to the community!

And a Special Thanks to North Manatee member, Liva Sertrrides, for doing "double duty" as cashier and supervising the BC kids.  Apparently, Peter had his hand full keeping up with mixing pancake batter!

K-Kids News
Palm View K-kids:  
Tuesday's meeting had 19 in attendance.  The K-kids had a Christmas party and practiced for tomorrow's caroling trip!  They will be in the Clubhouse across from the school at 9:00am.

Blackburn K-kids:
No report this week.

 INTERCLUB News   
No official Interclub this week BUT Lt. Gov. Debbie McNulty had an opportunity to visit her father's Kiwanis Club in Brea California.  Their Breakfast Meeting program presented awards to the winners of the Kiwanis-sponsored Annual Spelling Bee.  Then Debbie along with Brea members, Dan Cook and Dennis O'hern, competed against the three <elementary school> winners.   One by one, over 4 rounds, Debbie, Dan and Dennis were eliminated... the kids won. (It appears the "spell checker" was invented just for Debbie!)

 
Upcoming Interclubs-
  * Anna Maria Island Kiwanis, Saturday 12/17, 8:30am at Cafe on the Beach

 If you have any suggestions on future interclubs, contact Interclub Chairman, Roger Rodriguez (rbrodriguez4370@tampabay.rr.com).

 PROGRAMS/SPEAKERS schedule
* Dec 16 - Norman Olshansky, Van Wezel Foundation, President and CEO
* Dec 23 - no speaker scheduled
* Dec 30 - TBA
* Jan 6 - Palmetto H.S. JROTC
* Jan 13 - Timothy W. Blend, MD- Medical Director of the Blend Institute

 If you have anyone in mind to speak at one of our club meetings, please see Lindell (lindelljcorrell@aol.com) for available dates.

 UPCOMING EVENTS- Mark your calendars!
* Saturday, January 21 - International Food Festival at Wakeland Elementary

  
PAST EVENTS 
The Breakfast with Santa project went well with few hiccups. Peter estimated that our club served a little shy of 500 people.  Peter spend much of his time mixing pancake batter; Liva collected the money AND organized the Builders Club helpers; Rob, Brian, Bob S, Marshall, Roger and Mike L worked their magic on making pancakes and sausage. 

 
PROGRAM/SPEAKER
Long standing North Manatee member John Stephens did a great job presenting the core ideas of Kiwanis to a full house.  Many entertaining stories about his projects and conferences were used to keep us all interested in what it means to be a Kiwanian.  John also shared some new ideas of how to go to a drive-in service and best ways to go on a cruise without really going-sleep on a retired paddlewheeler!

 

Thanks, John, for a very informative and entertaining presentation. 

 
CLOSING REMARKS 
Wow, what a week! (Well an-end of week, anyway.)  Immediately before Friday's meeting, we met with Donel Beal from Williams Elementary, to hand over the 240 hot dogs and buns that we had promised for their evening event. Then, after a well-attended and lively membership meeting on Friday, we were represented bright and early (6am) on Saturday at the County Extension office, cooking for Breakfast with Santa. We estimate that we served sausages, pancakes and drinks to about 500 customers. Well done everyone!

 

Next week I expect two or three prospective members to be in attendance to learn more about us. Let's make them feel especially welcome!

Until Friday,
Peter Ruscoe- President

Greetings NORTH MANATEE Kiwanians and Friends, 
Very energetic meeting with 15 members attending.  Guests included Speaker Bob Terry and Williams Elementary PTO representative, Donel Beals and her two sons.  Snowbirds Alex and Bob S are down for the winter so we are very happy to have them back with us for the next 6 months.

 

Donel Beals from the Williams Elementary PTO addressed the club about a Cookies with Santa event going on Friday, December 9th.  Williams PTO will be hosting a Bonfire with a DJ, Christmas Caroling, food, cookies and of course SANTA CLAUS.  Donel appologized for the short notice but she was hoping North Manatee Kiwanis could provide 200 hot dogs and buns for the project.  (No cooking required!)   The membership was in agreement to support the event so President Peter called a quick board meeting to officially approve the purchase of the food. 

 

Chuck Fradley announced to the club that Wakeland Elementary's Annual International Festival will be January 21st and the club is welcome to participate once again in selling our speciality of American cuisine (hot dogs and burgers).  Last year we sold out of food so this year we plan to bring even more so we can make a little money to add to our community fund.

 

Breakfast with Santa coming up on Saturday! 

Next Friday remember to bring your griddles to prepare sausages and pancakes at the Breakfast with Santa project

and take them to the Extension Services.  We need them ahead of time to set up the night before.  So far we have the following people signed up to help Friday morning- Peter, Rob, Brian, Bob S., Marshall, Roger, Mike L, Chuck F, and Liva.  The Buffalo Creek Builders Club will also be providing "elves" for the occasion. Come one, come all!  A great time will be had by all.

 

Important meeting Friday!  On Dec. 9th, our club will host our first "Membership Meeting" of the 2011-2012 year.  Invite your friends, neighbors, businiess associates, church members and anyone else you may know who has an interest in helping the community!   Dynamic speaker John Stephens will be giving a presentation on "What is Kiwanis?" combined with "How does North Manatee Help our Community?". It is sure to be an informative as well as entertaining event.

 

Upcoming Interclubs- 
  * Saturday 12/17, with Anna Maria Island Kiwanis, 8:30am at Cafe on the Beach Restaurant, 4000 Gulf Drive on Anna Maria Island
 
50/50 winner - N. Manatee Member, Roger Rodriguez (Don't forget to buy your SUPER RAFFLE tickets from Roger at Friday's meeting!)
 
MEMBERSHIP News

MEMBERSHIP MEETING-  December 9th. 

Please make sure that you invite a prospective member to our December 9, 2011 membership meeting. Our club is growing and offers many opportunities to give back to our community. If you know someone that would benefit please invite them to hear John Stephens introduce them to what Kiwanis is all about. Also, please try to come to the meeting that day to show your support and to meet any guests

Questions regarding membership should be directed to Kevin Geisler, our 2011-2012 Membership Chairman.
 
KEY CLUB News  
No Palmetto Key Club meeting this past week due to Faculty Advisor Julie Williams feeling under the weather.  We hope you feel better soon, Ms. Williams!

 

However, Wednesday afternoon, PHS Key Club members Josh and Robert along with Key Club Advisor, Debbie McNulty, attended a special Key Club session at Sweet Berries in Bradenton.. Key Club Lt. Gov. Jackie Aranibar provided outstanding leadership by meeting with Key Club representatives from around Manatee County to discuss a "Service Leadership Program Kiwanis Day".  The idea is to have all of the Key Clubs, Builders Clubs and possible K-kids to sponsor some sort of "game booth" to create a "Family Fun Day".  The tentative date selected is April 14 and the likely location is G.T. Bray Park.  We are still in the early planning stages so there will be more details to follow in the coming months.
 
BUILDERS CLUB News
Fourteen members attended the Dec. 1 meeting for Buffalo Creek Builders Club.  Faculty Advisor, Ms. Rubin was not able to attend since she was busy getting her Cross Country team ready for an upcoming meet.  However, Advisor Ms. Anderson took up the slack and showed a Power Point on "Helpful Hints to Remember as We Volunteer our Time".  Important points included Dress Code, Permission Slips, Saying Goodbye, Work vs. Play.  

 

Members also reported on their experiences helping at the Blackburn Fall Festival.  In total, eight BC members participated.  Great job to everyone!

 

Kiwanis Advisor, Debbie McNulty, spoke to the group about helping at the Breakfast with Santa event on the 10th.  Students will sign up officially at the Dec 8th meeting.  Since Debbie is out of town on business, President Peter Ruscoe will be filling in for her at the BC meeting and will be the point person at the Breakfast with Santa event.  (Yes, Peter will be in charge of the ELVES!)

K-Kids News
Palm View K-kids:  
Palm View K-kids had twenty in attendance and wrapped the presents from Saturday's shopping trip to Walmart at which they spent $300.00 of the monies that they have raised this year. The club bought for six children. The members were very excited about the entire project and truly learned about giving!  They even had one of their parent/K-Kid team purchase some boots for one of our recipients because our funds didn't go that far!  Advisors Elaine Johnson and Jeannette Beckett couldn't be more proud of their club!

Blackburn K-kids:

No report this week.
 
INTERCLUB News   
Very successful Interclub with the Manatee-Sunrise club last Thursday.  Five members (Peter, Liva, Barb, Bob M, and Mary) joined Lt. Gov. Debbie McNulty to share breakfast and company at Norma Rae's restaurant in Palmetto.

 

As usual, Manatee-Sunrise is VERY busy with assorted projects, the first of which is a Toy Drive. They are also planning a big Pot Luck Christmas Party on the 11th.  President Terri was also proud to report that their club, in a joint effort with the Bradenton Club, is starting a new Builders Club AND K-kids at St. Joseph's. 

 

Thank you, Terri and Manatee-Sunrise members for your hospitality.

 

Upcoming Interclubs- 
  * Anna Maria Island Kiwanis, Saturday 12/17, 8:30am at Cafe on the Beach
 
If you have any suggestions on future interclubs, contact Interclub Chairman, Roger Rodriguez (rbrodriguez4370@tampabay.rr.com).
 
PROGRAMS/SPEAKERS schedule
* Dec 2 - Bob Terry, Community Action Partnership
* Dec 9 - MEMBERSHIP MEETING
* Dec 16 - Norman Olshansky, Van Wezel Foundation, President and CEO
* Dec 23 - no speaker scheduled
* Dec 30 - TBA
* Jan 6 - Palmetto H.S. JROTC
* Jan 13 - Timothy W. Blend, MD- Medical Director of the Blend Institute
 
If you have anyone in mind to speak at one of our club meetings, please see Lindell (lindelljcorrell@aol.com) for available dates.
 
UPCOMING EVENTS- Mark your calendars!

* Saturday, Dec 10 - Breakfast with Santa, 8-11am (food preparation starts at 6:30am)  Peter, Rob, Brian, Bob S. Marshall, Roger, Mike L, Chuck Fradley and Liva signed up so far.
 
 
PAST EVENTS
None to report.
 
PROGRAM/SPEAKER
Bob Terry with the Manatee Community Action Agency spoke to us about how his organization provides assistance to low income individuals to create new businesses.  The Community Action Agency administers grants to get new businesses up and going while at the same time helping the owners understand what it takes to make their businesses work.  They work with the owners to create viable business plans and go over accounting practices.

 

In many cases the Manatee Community Action Agency is the primary source of assistance for families at or below the poverty level.  Currently, there are 30 new business cases "in the works" for this next year. Last year five new businesses were funded last year and of those 5 only 1 failed. 

 

Thank you, Bob, for taking the time to come visit our club and tell us all about the important service you do for the community.  Please come back and visit us again.

 

 
CLOSING REMARKS 
I'm looking forward to this coming Friday, and hoping that we can bring as many prospective members as possible.

But don't forget to also bring griddles - that day.

On Saturday (bright and early for the sausage-grillers) bring your enthusiasm and a smile - we'll have the opportunity to display Kiwanis spirit to a whole lot of adults and children. And if anyone has a (paper) chef's toque, I'll be happy to wear it and make it look like I'm in charge!

Until Friday,
Peter Ruscoe- President

Our "Day-After-Thanksgiving" meeting was just a ROUND TABLE since we knew that most of our members would not be able to drag themselves out of bed early Friday morning.  Roger Rodriguez, Brian Brown and John Stephens managed to defeat the tryptophan in their Thanksgiving turkeys and showed up for breakfast early Friday morning.  John brought a guest, Monica, to join in the camaraderie.

 
Next week bring an extra $20 or so to purchase some SUPER RAFFLE TICKETS. Roger Rodriguez has them for $20 each. Remember that supporting this helps our club's Administrative fund which is used for general club operations and convention expenses. Starting in April, we will draw two $20 winners each month until our Annual Banquet in October. You can purchase tickets for your friends and family as well. 
 
At our next meeting, be prepared to sign up to help at this year's Breakfast with Santa.  It will take place on Saturday Dec. 10th from 8-11am at the Manatee Extension Services Center just across the street from Palmetto High School.  We will need members to help with food preparation and serving in shifts starting at 6:30am. In addition we need griddles - preferably ahead of time so that they can all be set up ready to go. Peter will collect them at the meeting on Friday December 9th and take them to the Extension Service. Rob Harper will have a special sign-up sheet so you can select just which fun job you would like - (pancake cook, sausage cook, food server, etc.) 
 
Upcoming Interclubs-
  * TOMORROW, Thursday 12/1, with Manatee-Sunrise Kiwanis, 7:15am at Norma Rae's Restaurant, 413 10th Ave West in Palmetto
  * Saturday 12/17, with Anna Maria Island Kiwanis, 8:30am at Cafe on the Beach Restaurant, 4000 Gulf Drive on Anna Maria Island
 
50/50 winner - No winner this week since we just had a ROUND TABLE
 
MEMBERSHIP News
MEMBERSHIP MEETING-  December 9th. 
 
Please plan to invite guests for December 9th's meeting. This will be the club's first opportunity to spread the word about Kiwanis and add new members for this 2011-2012 year.  The very dynamic John Stephens will be the featured speaker.
 
Questions regarding membership should be directed to Kevin Geisler, our 2011-2012 Membership Chairman.
 
KEY CLUB News   
No meeting this past week.  Key Clubbers got Wednesday off from school for the holiday. 
 
BUILDERS CLUB News
No meeting this past week.  BC members had no school Thursday due to Thanksgiving. 

 

However, their next off-campus project is "Donuts in December" at Mills Elementary on Dec. 3rd from 9am-noon.  They will be helping the Mills PTO by selling donuts to raise money for the school.  If anyone is available to show up to offer support and show the Builders Club how much we appreciate their efforts, please contact Debbie McNulty (debmcnulty@gmail.com).

 
K-Kids News
Palm View K-kids:  
Nineteen members attended Tuesday's meeting. They looked at pictures from their Guide Dog field trip and passed out permission slips for Saturday's shopping trip to Walmart for their "adopted family" and for their December 14th caroling outing.

 

Blackburn K-kids:

No report due to last week's holiday.

 
INTERCLUB News   
Upcoming Interclubs-
  * Manatee-Sunrise Kiwanis, Thursday 12/1, 7:15am at Norma Rae's (Deb, Bob M, Barb, Mary, Peter and Liva signed up so far)
  * Anna Maria Island Kiwanis, Saturday 12/17, 8:30am at Cafe on the Beach
 
If you have any suggestions on future interclubs, contact Interclub Chairman, Roger Rodriguez (rbrodriguez4370@tampabay.rr.com).
 
PROGRAMS/SPEAKERS schedule
* Dec 2 - Bob Terry, Community Action Partnership
* Dec 9 - MEMBERSHIP MEETING
* Dec 16 - Norman Olshansky, Van Wezel Foundation, President and CEO
* Dec 23 - no speaker scheduled
* Dec 30 - TBA
* Jan 6 - Palmetto H.S. JROTC
* Jan 13 - Timothy W. Blend, MD- Medical Director of the Blend Institute
 
If you have anyone in mind to speak at one of our club meetings, please see Lindell (lindelljcorrell@aol.com) for available dates.
 
UPCOMING EVENTS- Mark your calendars!

* Saturday, Dec 1- Supporting our Buffalo Creek Builders Club with a project at Mills Elementary, 9am-noon

* Saturday, Dec 10 - Breakfast with Santa, 8-11am (food preparation starts at 6:30am)

 

 

None to report.

 
PROGRAM/SPEAKER
ROUND TABLE- No speaker this week.
 
CLOSING REMARKS  
 
I hope all of you had a special Thanksgiving with friends and family.  How wonderful to know that we also have each other in our K-family for support nd friendship.

Remember that we have several events coming up in the next 3 weeks- a Builders Club event on the 3rd, Breakfast with Santa on the 10th,  and two interclubs, Manatee-Sunrise on the 1st and Anna Maria on the 17th.  Please do your best to participate when you can.

Until Friday,
Peter Ruscoe- President

Greetings NORTH MANATEE Kiwanians and Friends,  

Very lively meeting Friday, spiced up by the attendance of the Anna Maria Island Interclub. Bob MacDonald's charming daughter, Rio, was there as well.  She stood up and gave a confident explanation of her school fundraiser.  Everyone was very impressed. 

 

Roger Rodriguez has SUPER RAFFLE TICKETS for sale, $20 each.  At last month's Annual Banquet, member Chuck Fradley won the big $400 prize, with John Winters and Dave Marshall each winning $100.  Starting in April, we will draw two $20 winners each month until our Annual Banquet in October. You can purchase tickets for your friends and family as well.  See Roger for the tickets!

 

Please keep in mind that Breakfast with Santa is coming up in a few weeks on Dec 10th.  The event runs from 8-11am at the Manatee Extension Services Center just across the street from Palmetto High School.  We will need members to help with food preparation and serving in shifts starting at 6:30am. In addition we need griddles - preferably ahead of time so that they can all be set up ready to go. Peter will collect them at the meeting on Friday December 9th and take them to the Extension Service. Brenda Rogers cannot attend for the entire event this year, and she has always taken on the messy job of preparing pancake batter. Rumor has it that President Peter will step into that role. Bring your cameras. Please see Rob Harper to sign-up.

 

  * Manatee-Sunrise Kiwanis, Thursday 12/1, 7:15am at Norma Rae's Restaurant, 413 10th Ave West in Palmetto

  * Anna Maria Island Kiwanis, Saturday 12/17, 8:30am at Cafe on the Beach Restaurant, 4000 Gulf Drive on Anna Maria Island

 
50/50 winner - One of Mike Sabatino's sons
 
MEMBERSHIP News
MEMBERSHIP MEETING-  December 9th.
 
Please plan to invite guests for December 9th's meeting. This will be the club's first opportunity to spread the word about Kiwanis and add new members for this 2011-2012 year.  The very dynamic John Stephens will be the featured speaker.
 
Questions regarding membership should be directed to Kevin Geisler, our 2011-2012 Membership Chairman.
 
KEY CLUB News   
The Palmetto Key Club had two projects going on over the weekend.  On Saturday and Sunday, Key Club members helped with the Stuff the Bus efforts at the Parrish Publix and the Palmetto Publix.  On Saturday, members also attended the Blackburn Fall Festival, helping with setup, booths and anything else the PTO organizers needed.  Great job, Key Clubbers!

 

 

BUILDERS CLUB News

According to advisor, Gina Anderson -

 

"The Blackburn Fall Festival went very well! It was this past Saturday from 12-4. We had about 8 or 9 members help out.  They worked the game booths and a jumpy slide.

 

Our last meeting was strictly a party in celebration of our club raising over $200 for UNICEF. We also wrapped up with canned food drive (with the help of our Learn and Serve class/club). Buffalo Creek Middle School raised a total of 3,091 canned food items!! "

 
K-Kids News
Palm View K-kids:  
Fifteen member in attendance at Tuesday's meeting.  Most of the time was spent practicing their caroling since they will be singing Christmas carols in a few weeks.

Their food drive ended early this week. They donated 224 items to the Mayors Food Bank. The advisors will be taking the kids shopping one Saturday in December for their Adopt a family.

Blackburn K-kids:
Going strong with about 25 members. Both the President (Grace LaBree) and Secretary (Avery Rath) are serving their second terms, so the leadership has experience! For Halloween, they bagged 512 candygrams. The club is adopting 3 families for Thanksgiving. Mr Dillon and Ms Travis have donated 2 turkeys. K-Kids Advisor) Peter said that he would provide the third on behalf of our Kiwanis Club. The K-Kids will be bringing in grocery items, and their club funds will pay for whatever else is needed. During the meeting on Nov 16th, the members decorated place mats to go into the 3 families' packages. December's project is to create posters fro Tidewell Hospice, and to deliver them, along with goodie bags, on December 10th
 
INTERCLUB News  
We had TWO Interclubs this week.  The first was the Division Council Meeting held at the Bradenton Kiwanis Hall.  Lt. Gov. Debbie McNulty spoke to members from the Manatee County Kiwanis clubs about the State of the Division, Distinguished Club requirements for 2011-2012 and Division Membership.  Peter Ruscoe, John Stephens, and Liva Serterides represented our club.

 

The second interclub was Tuesday night with the West Bradenton Kiwanis.  Roger, Liva, Peter, Debbie and Deb's lovely daughter, Erin attended the W. Bradenton meeting with members Barb, Rich, Mark, Pam, Danny and Bill.  President Barb reported on last week's Division Council Meeting, their Key Club's Salvation Army Bell Ringing project and an upcoming Christmas project at GT Bray Park on Dec 3rd.

 

 

If you have any suggestions on future interclubs, contact Interclub Chairman, Roger Rodriguez (rbrodriguez4370@tampabay.rr.com).
 
PROGRAMS/SPEAKERS schedule
* Nov 25 - ROUND TABLE, no speaker scheduled
* Dec 2 - Bob Terry, Community Action Partnership
* Dec 9 - MEMBERSHIP MEETING
* Dec 16 - Norman Olshansky, Van Wezel Foundation, President and CEO
* Dec 23 - no speaker scheduled
* Dec 30 - TBA
* Jan 6 - Palmetto H.S. JROTC
* Jan 13 - Timothy W. Blend, MD- Medical Director of the Blend Institute
 
If you have anyone in mind to speak at one of our club meetings, please see Lindell (lindelljcorrell@aol.com) for available dates.
 
UPCOMING EVENTS- Mark your calendars!
* Saturday, Dec 10 - Breakfast with Santa, 8-11am (food preparation starts at 6:30am)

On Saturday, Blackburn Elementary had their annual Fall Festival. Matt, Peter, Brian, Liva, Barbara, Lindell and Marshall attended. They cooked 170 dogs and 215 burgers; they had great weather and great fellowship.  By 3pm, their job there was done.

 
PROGRAM/SPEAKER
No speaker this week.
 
CLOSING REMARKS 
Countdown to Thanksgiving! I hope all of you are focused on gratitude for everything you have, especially your loved ones. We have all seen the devastating results that loneliness can wreak on an individual, and sometimes our unintentional lack of concern for those close to us can be very hurtful. Let's build bridges, mend relationships, share the joy with others and plan on having a blessed and happy Thanksgiving!
 
Peter Ruscoe- President