FAIRWELL-- "A Garden is Never Finished"

GALLIVANTING JOURNAL - September 2001
CAPITAL BUILDER - September 2001
CAPITAL BUILDER - August 2001
CAPITAL BUILDER - July 2001

GALLIVANTING JOURNAL - April/June 2001
CAPITAL BUILDER - June 2001
CAPITAL BUILDER - May 2001
CAPITAL BUILDER - April 2001

GALLIVANTING JOURNAL - January/March 2001
CAPITAL BUILDER - March 2001
CAPITAL BUILDER February 2001
CAPITAL BUILDER January 2001 [not published]

GALLIVANTING JOURNAL - October/December 2000
CAPITAL BUILDER December 2000 [not published]
CAPITAL BUILDER November 2000
CAPITAL BUILDER October 2000

Home Division 17's Instructions to Governor John
K-Family Weekend - Sept. 8-10
CAPITAL BUILDER September 2000

GALLIVANTING JOURNAL - September 2001

K-Family Weekend Board

2001-02 Governors in Taipei

We've had a GREAT year!! And don't you forget it. Remember all our successes in our individual communities, think of all the folks we have helped, continue working with our kids in guiding them towards a better future, and in general let us build on this year for next year.

One of the greatest pleasures I have had during the Capital Year of the Tiger is seeing the planning of, and agonizing over, all our programs and events by our volunteer Kiwanians in our communities. The camaraderie and stick-to-it-iveness of our members has once again demonstrated that we are the best community service club in the world!

HAGERSTOWN: Our convention was a great success, thanks to Chair Betty Slifer and her committee -- training, business, fun and companionship came together for another shared experience. There was something there for everyone. We had the pleasure of meeting our International Trustee David Currey and his lovely wife Eva and laughing at his Irish jokes - most of which we had not heard before! Our Friday night Honors Reception was attended by over 300 folks as we honored 15 members who had made significant contributions to both CDF and KIF and their good works, and honored all 23 lieutenant governors for their divisions' 100% participation in the Annual KIF Gift Fund. Saturday night's Governor's Banquet was closed down by a dozen or so hard-line dancers (Head Gardener amongst them) as our big band finally stopped at 11:30pm. Education sessions were packed with members looking for ideas and techniques with which they can be more effective back home.

MEMBERSHIP: I just want to thank you for your membership efforts this year. While most of our clubs have brought in at least one member, there are 40 clubs that I know are trying hard to do so before September 30th so that we can meet my goal of having every one of our clubs induct a new community service member. As I have mentioned before, please do everything you can within your clubs to retain those members you have so that we will end up on September 30 as a District with a PLUS in our membership totals for the year. The one criterion we have been working towards all year has been membership growth for the TOTAL DISTRICT. For the first time in many years, we arrive in early September with PLUS 26 members and now we have the year-end reports to deal with. We cannot demand that clubs do in three weeks what they have not done all year long, but we can encourage them to try to add one or two more new members to their club rolls in their September reports. AND we can encourage them not to drop ANY members who technically haven't paid dues by September 30th just to add them back in October or November when those members pay up.

What will be important for our District (and for Governor-Designate Jerry's year) is if we can say that the District pulled together this year and turned around this constant membership erosion we have been experiencing for the last ten years. Just so long as Capital can say we had a GAIN in membership -- even if only three -- we will be giving our successors an attitude boost to build on their "Peuler's Patriots" year.

K-FAMILY WEEKEND: Our fun-filled weekend for our K-Family board members was again at the Front Royal 4-H Camp. Governor-Designate Jerry did a great job arranging things, and in conjunction with CKI Governor Tara and KCI Governor Lisa determined workable roles for each organization in K-Family activities.

DISTINGUISHED KIWANIAN: When September 30 rolls around, Kiwanians can assess their participation in this year's activities. Look for the Distinguished Kiwanian form in this issue for all the criteria. I am always amazed that less than 2% of our members take advantage of this program, which gives you the little walking man pin in recognition of your achievements. This year, PLEASE fill out the form if you meet the criteria and get in to us by December 31 so that you can be recognized at the Hampton Midwinter Conference as a Distinguished Kiwanian!

WORLD SERVICE PROJECT: OK, folks, as we wind down this administrative year, we have cumulatively raised a grand total of cash and pledges of $1,435,777.36 as close as I can figure it from what KIF has received and what I've sent them or know has been sent them. To finish this Grand Adventure and redeem our $1.5 million pledge once and for all by September 30th we need to raise the final (ta-da) $64,222.64. So, the $64 Question is can we do it??

Any help from any club with funds they were going to send in (but haven't), any member who has promised to pledge whatever amount (but hasn't), any club or division that has talked about honoring their past leadership (but hasn't), any member or club who has talked about honoring someone or some group they deal with in their community (but hasn't), or any of you or your friends who have wished to upgrade your Hixson or Diamond Level, PLEASE PLEASE do so now. And as you find out that anyone or any club is actually doing these action items, let me know ASAP so I can add it to the District totals. Have them send the checks to me with their details -- remember that money can go in the bank for later designation!!

HANDING-OVER CEREMONY: In most years, the District leadership tries to hand over the reins to the succeeding class with our District in a better condition after we have added our efforts. I believe it will be so this year as the Patriots move forward with their agenda, and so on a year from now as Dan Warren and his crew assume the mantle.

I've had great fun and have done the best I can to motivate our clubs which are the heart of Kiwanis. I've used a garden as my simile for the District. As the Tigers hand leadership over to Peuler's Patriots, just remember, "A Garden Is Never Finished!" I have truly enjoyed being the facilitator of our joint efforts during this last year, and I'm looking forward to working with the next crew-in-charge from that fabled position of "Immediate Past."

Capital Builder - August 2001

Capital Builder - August 2001 Capital District had a great time hosting the Key Club International Convention on the 4th of July week. We received all sorts of kudos from International on the way that Convention Host Chair LTG Megan Moy and Administrator Walt Rudy had arranged everything that was required of Capital District. I was particularly thankful for those Kiwanians from Divisions 1, 17 and 20 who gave of their time to do the myriad administrative chores in a convention this size. I was gratified to see the involvement of all sectors of our K-Family either running booths, panels or helping out where needed. Special thanks go to Circle K Governor Tara and her crew, to Walt and Janis Rudy, to Bill and Janet Hand, to Judy and Bill Murray, and to Dave Lurie, Sarah Butcher and Bernadine Cole. Thanks especially to Gov-Elect Jerry for being there the whole time!

Time for an update as to where we are in the District on key issues -- some of which will be resolved by the time of the District Convention:

HAGERSTOWN: Elsewhere in this paper is a BRIEF line up of what you will experience in Hagerstown - including training, business, fun and companionship come August 17-19th. There is something there for everyone. There is even an hour's gap in the program on Saturday from 3-4 pm while the hotel sets up our house of delegates for us. What an ideal time for informal groups (like the certified trainers) to meet together before the business session to plan activities and/or events. Our Friday night Honors Reception will feature those who have made significant contributions to both CDF and KIF and their good works, as well as the unveiling of the 2001 Teenager of the Year! Please come and have fun as the Saturday night Governor's socially active banquet and big band dancing later. Those of you who were in Williamsburg will have a chance to "swing" again! I'll remind you that business attire is the word for the night.

MEMBERSHIP: I just want to thank you for your membership efforts this year. While most of our clubs have brought in at least one member, there are 47 clubs, which I know are trying hard to do so before September 1st. so that we can meet my goal of having every one of our clubs induct a new community service member. As I have mentioned before, please do everything you can within your clubs to retain those members you have so that we will end up on September 30 as a District with a PLUS in our membership totals for the year.

NEW CLUBS: I have heard from a few people about new club possibilities this administrative year and we'll see how they pan out. I will be taking the month of August off to do blitzes in those possible new-club areas. I'm asking you to truly encourage your club and or division to move it on out! We have a team ready and able to come help you. Just tell your lieutenant governor or me that you are willing and able to form a new club and we'll be there. We have added three strong new clubs so far and are looking forward to getting more hotbeds of service ready for when school returns!!

K-FAMILY WEEKEND: Our fun-filled weekend for our K-Family board members will be again at the Front Royal 4-H Camp on September 7-9. Governor Elect Jerry will be arranging things, but I do want to make a pitch that EVERYONE is welcome if you have any role in K-Family activities. Board members from all three groups must be there, but the event is brightened up with Kiwanians attending as well, whether they are "zonies" (zone administrators) or not. We have a great chance to interact in a way you cannot do back in your own divisions, so give it a thought and a CHANCE!!

DISTINGUISHED KIWANIAN: When September 30 rolls around, Kiwanians can assess their participation in this year's activities. Look for the Distinguished Kiwanian form in this issue for all the criteria. I am always amazed that less that 2% of our members take advantage of this program, which gives you the little walking man pin in recognition of your achievements. This year, PLEASE fill out the form if you meet the criteria and get in to us by December 31 so that you, too, can be recognized as a Distinguished Kiwanian!

WORLD SERVICE PROJECT: The details of our IDD push are elsewhere in this issue, so look for your success there. I'm proud to say that I have just received another check from our Key Clubbers, which brings their total giving to $106,000. There are only a couple of Kiwanis divisions that have exceeded that!

I'll be seeing you around our Kiwanis events this summer. Take care and be sure to ASK

Capital Builder - July 2001

Taipei was a curious blend of cultures and historical buildings mixed amongst the older dwellings -- a mélange that was thoroughly enjoyed by all who took the time to explore outside the convention center. While (of course) spending all necessary time with governor-type stuff, I did find time to visit a few temples and an old European fort, and to chat with world-wide friends that one sees every year at convention time.

Now, let's look at an update as to where we are in the District and let's resolve to finish up our loose ends before Hagerstown District Convention:

MEMBERSHIP: I just want to thank you for your membership efforts this year. While International President Bo keeps asking about reaching our District goal of 1,670, we are currently showing around 600 new member adds, so we have a way to go for our goal. I have told him I would be more than satisfied if every one of our clubs could have at least one new member. We must, however, end up as a District with a PLUS in our membership totals come September 30 reporting time. That means I'm asking you folks to encourage your clubs to RETAIN those members they have and of course redouble their efforts to gain new folks to help them in their community service projects.

NEW CLUBS: Now before you "ho-hum" this part of what I'm writing, let me tell you that we have just organized the Kiwanis Club of Waterfront Southwest, Washington, DC thanks to the great efforts of PLG Linwood Watson and LTG Donna Dean. That's Divisions 13, 17 and now 1 that have done it!

I know some clubs will, and some clubs won't, try to build a new source of community service, but I'm asking you to truly encourage your club and or division to move it on out! With three new clubs now cooking, do any of you have a fruitful site that you can identify now in which we can come together this summer and build a new club? My Tyner's Tigers have talked with me about what they think their division can or cannot do.

Take another peak right now and let me know, especially those of you who gave me sites before of which nothing has come. We can do a great blitz in August and September to get these hotbeds of service ready for when school returns!! Count me in...

HAGERSTOWN: Elsewhere in this paper is the training schedule for your skills improvement exercises come August 17-19th. There is something there for everyone. And don't forget the Friday night Honors Reception and dinner theatre as well as the Saturday night Governor's socially active Banquet.

We will have a fully packed agenda for the Saturday business session, so do your homework by visiting the district web site and read about the proposed bylaws which are being recommended to you by your Board of Trustees. You must have your SIGNED delegate credentials into Secretary Ellis Stroup not later than August 1st if you wish to have a breeze going through the Credentials Committee!

CARING CORNER: Please remember the Caring Corner items that you are bringing to Hagerstown! Chair Ginny Espie's committee is trying very hard to break a record of monies raised for our seven pediatric trauma centers and only you can help them do it! Don't forget your Ducky Derby chances which each club has. If you need more, your District Foundation trustee has more for you. If you have a few hours to volunteer to help, please send Ginny an e-mail at devespie@ari.net.

And where would we be if I didn't mention our WORLDWIDE SERVICE PROJECT??? We are very slowly closing in on our goal, thanks to a very few dedicated individuals and clubs. At the moment, we still need $110,000 to redeem our $1.5 million pledge. We have $12,000 in outstanding pledges by clubs that have been outstanding for a while. Now being in a financial management career, I don't count pledges until paid. Of course IF these pledges were paid during July, we would have less than $100,000 to go, having raised 94% of our goal. You will note on the front page that the Kiwanis Club of suburban Frederick has challenged all other clubs to pony up and finish this IDD project. Can your club match any or all of this $10,000 challenge? Empty out those funds you have been "saving for later" or "for a rainy day." Think of all the kids around the world you are helping with your dollars……………

EDUCATION: Don't forget to get your incoming officers must be at the Club Leaders Education seminars this year as the material has changed to be more fruitful, helpful information that they will need to move the District forward toward Gov-Elect Jerry's goals!!

Gallivanting Journal - April/June 2001

Bob Cressy, new Div. 17 CDF Trustee congratulated by Gov and PG Scott Brewer	The famous "BO"tie for M&Ms "Membership Matters"	Div 17 $7K donation to Treatment & Learning Center
Div 17 Northwest Key Club donates $1,000 to IDD	The One and Only Tux sighting- Key Club Convention	(L-R) PLG Cal Bloom, Gov John, PKIVP Jim Kauffman, PKIT Dig DeGarmo share a moment at the Naval Academy Chapel

Capital Builder - June 2001

Now that we know that our New Year's Resolutions are set and WILL BE carried out, we can take a fresh look at where our clubs are headed and how we Kiwanians are prepared to bring friends and colleagues into our K-Family and when we will celebrate the fulfillment of our IDD pledge.

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION: Some 80 of your friends and colleagues are heading off to Taipei to experience the mystique of the Orient! I'll let you know the highlights in a later article. Remember that International Convention 2002 is in New Orleans, and we'll be returning to a lovely city where we were last there in 1994. And that was where we kicked off our commitment to the Worldwide Service Project - IDD. As you start planning your club's budget for next year, please plan on supporting financially your delegates to New Orleans -- we will be presenting Past Governor Dana Cable as a candidate for International Trustee and, frankly, we wish to maximize the number of delegates attending on his behalf.

EDUCATION: Now that we have trained our Lieutenant Governors-Designate, we are flexing our minds for the next round this summer of Club Leadership Education training sessions for incoming club presidents and other officers. All you budding presidents will have an opportunity to take this required training at selected sites around the District. We are not changing the divisional groupings or locations this year, and the dates set Education Chair Harold Laurent are up on the District web site. Check it out. This will be the final formal session for LTG-Ds and Club Officers to work together on specific tools that will, if utilized, be extremely helpful in moving the district further forward during Governor Jerry's year.

COMMUNICATION: The Capital Builder has undergone some positive changes and will be demonstrating other changes in the next few months. Comments I've heard have been VERY complimentary to our Editor Mike Durkin. And I would remind you that those of you who wish to see the full-blown club statistics sheets may do so on our District website at http://www.capdistkiwanis.org. Now, my fellow Kiwanians, many of you have complained that stuff you sent in in the past has not been printed. Beyond the editing function done by our Editor Mike, he cannot work with items that he does not receive!! So please submit your proud accomplishment and pictures so we can show the world.

WORLDWIDE SERVICE PROJECT: As of May 31st, we are pushing to finish our goal of $1.5 million -- your response has been great and we now need just $140,000 to complete our commitment. Can we find 140 Kiwanians out of our membership of 8,000 to step up to a Hixson, a Hixson Diamond or a Tablet of Honor, and we'll have done it!! How about taking YOUR turn to help 20,000 kids in the world? Please check your clubs for those who are holding money back until you can decide on who to honor. You do NOT have to wait -- we can credit your club with the amount and you can designate someone later on. If you plan on honoring one of your past leaders or someone in your community, please do it now. Let's announce to the world at Hagerstown that we have reached our goal……

MEMBERSHIP: I'm hoping that all of you are bringing guests to your meetings so they will experience the thrill of Kiwanis community service. To make a pitch for you to redouble your efforts is kinda hard since such personal touches are just that -- only YOU can bring guests and encourage membership. You must want to bring your friends and associates into the K-Family - and it is up to you. Is your club participating in the Six Pack Program, especially the "4 Under 40 " package deal? If not, ask your president when your club will get started! And those of you who have inducted new members, be sure to bring them to Hagerstown Convention so they really get a flavor of what we are about and be introduced at Saturday's luncheon.

NEW CLUB BUILDING: If you have been looking at our web site, you will know that we have welcomed two new clubs to the Capital District: the Monitor Club in Division 13 and the Crescent Trail Club in Division 17. Congratulations to all for joining the world's best community service club. Right on their heels is a club building in Southwest Washington, DC, being spearheaded by PLG Linwood Watson and LTG Donna Dean. As I write this they have 14 signed up. There are other divisions who have spoken about opportunities to build a new club and there is STILL time to do so this year. Let me know where and I'll be there to help…….

DISTRICT BYLAWS and POLICY STATEMENT: Our committee, chaired by Past governor Bob Powers, has completed its work on our suggested bylaw changes to bring them into conformance with those of Kiwanis International and up-to-date as far as how the District operates. You will have an opportunity to comment on them before voting on them in August. The second BIGGER project they have now completed in draft are changes in our policy statement that is our day-to-day guidance for all of us. You can participate in the updating of both bylaws and policy statement by going to our District web site at http://www.capdistkiwanis.org and going to "policy discussion" and following Chairman Bob's kind instructions. You will be voting on the bylaws at the House of Delegates in Hagerstown and the board will be voting on the policy statement at its meeting in Hagerstown. We absolutely need your input NOW so that your comments can be considered fully and carefully by the committee. So, please go check them out now.

HOBY: Governors get all sorts of mail from Kiwanians and others in our communities. As you know, the District has a very active HOBY movement in each of our states. I'd like to share a particularly poignant letter sent in by James Adler from the Floyd Kellam High School in Virginia Beach. He has just completed the Virginia State HOBY Leadership Conference.

"Thank you very much for your contributions to the Hugh O"Brian Youth Foundation. Your contributions have made this weekend conference of HOBY this weekend a huge success.

"Many young people have participated this weekend (in fact, over 230) and this conference has greatly changed our lives. We have heard many speakers on a variety of issues, such as future technologies, the place of charities and the changing nature of education in the new economy. These extremely talented leaders have enlightened us and inspired us to be leaders in our community.

"Personally, this weekend has changed my views entirely. I am now inspired to be a leader in the world around me and hopefully make an impact in the world.

"Once again, thank you for supporting Virginia's future leaders."

Well, people, off to the Polo Classic and other such summer goodies. See you again as I trundle around the District and listening to what you have to say!!!

Capital Builder - May 2001

Here we go, folks, another dynamite month of Kiwanis community service to look forward to, building on the successes of the past few months! I'm celebrating May by talking about member growth - both in our clubs and in our efforts to bring our friends and associates into the Kiwanis K-Family. Elsewhere in this Builder, I'll mention the importance of making sure your club is represented at Hagerstown Convention by properly credentialed delegates. AND I'll also mention your responsibility with regard to our proposed bylaws…….

MEMBERSHIP: You may have noticed that this issue of your Capital Builder is special and talks all about our members, the juice of your community service efforts. As of March 31, 2001 we had 347 new member adds this year towards our statistical goal of 1,700 - see their names that are listed elsewhere. Now, take a peek through the rest of this issue and then come back here to your favorite corner!

[PAUSE]

Welcome back! As Kiwanians, we are exhorted to produce, perform, and accomplish many tricks and achievements, especially concerning membership. Think carefully about your role because the most disappointed person, if things don't work out, will be you!!

Capital District's major goal is having thriving clubs with low retention problems and a steady stream of new members easing in during the year. And so, who will be doing all this fabulous retention and recruiting? The answer, fellow Kiwanians, is YOU AND I. Let me lay out a few good guides for you to follow this year, and as your District Governor, I'll be helping you out:

l. Lead by example -- recruit at least one new member yourself (required for becoming a Distinguished District Kiwanian) as soon as you can in this administrative year, and if you have sponsored members before in your club, be sure you talk with them and encourage them in continuing their Kiwanis service.

2. Do all you can to help your fellow members concentrate on membership building in your club and division -- keeps us all thinking of our own commitment to our club and community. As of March 31st, our top new-member-add club is Richmond with 17, followed by Williamsburg with 15, Winchester with 11, and Alexandria and Roanoke tied with 10 each. Congratulations!

3. Make sure to have a steady stream of guests visiting your club, whether they become members or not. Your fellow club members can be inspired by "new faces," and may know some guests of their own they can bring.

4. Speaking of new members, they will challenge your presidents -- such as where to put them on club committees and projects for balance. Your job as sponsor is to motivate them after the first month of attendance. Among your new members, you will find some future gems for club/divisional committees/projects!

5. RETENTION is the bigger job, although it should be the easiest. Every club and division looses members through lack of an effective retention effort by clubs. Let's face it, we don't like to recognize problems, and if members aren't around much, we are embarrassed to check them out. Just remember, you have a great advantage - they are ALREADY in the club. Maybe you need to "recruit" those persons again. Our slogan this year is "Re-member!"

6. Remember that we all like to be made a fuss of....it suits everyone's style and personality....so build your basis for growth through keeping what you've got by making sure your presidents USE the tools available to them for a good Kiwanis Orientation. Ask yourself: (a) When was the last time a club member received a perfect attendance tab? (b) Did your club's last new member's sponsor receive a sponsor pin at the same induction ceremony? (c) Did your club HAVE a formal induction ceremony? And (d) How many of your members have Ruby K new member sponsor awards?

My point is that you can create the greatest recruiting engine in your club/division if you fuel and water your OWN members on an ongoing basis.

So charge yourself up and inspire your fellow Kiwanians. Look to past members. Look to parents of your key clubbers. Look to persons of whom you have not the slightest idea if they are community-minded (you might wake up a potential Club president). All you got to do is....

ASK...and ASK again.....and then, thank them for joining!!

Spring has sprung - as "someone" said in days gone by! Our clubs have survived the Ides of March and I have every confidence that once the dust settles from our March 31 club reports, we will have continued our steady climb in new member adds. We have two clubs which we hope to organize in April - the Crescent Trail Club in Division 17 on the 14th and the Monitor Club in Division 13 on the 17th. Good luck and thanks to Past Governor Scott Brewer and PLG Joe Kalista for leading our successful recruiting push in these two locations. We have other locations being worked on -- stay tuned! And now for some specifics……

FRENCH DEAF STUDENTS: I was delighted to welcome 20 French deaf students from the Institute for the Young Deaf and their three adult teachers to the Washington, DC area as part of their tour of cities in the Eastern USA who have schools for the deaf originally organized along the lines of the first school for the deaf in France some 150 years ago. While their trip was supported by the Kiwanis Club of Bourg-en-Bresse, we were delighted to arrange tours of the White House (courtesy of Chief of Staff Andy Card), the Capitol complex (courtesy of Congresswoman Connie Morella [D-MD]), Air & Space Museum (courtesy of Div 17 LG Ben Schlesinger), and Mt. Vernon and Great Falls (courtesy of Div 20 LG Warren Kane). A highlight for us Capital District Kiwanians was picking the kids up at Dulles in the middle of two inches of rain and caravanning them to Gallaudet where they were staying. Thanks go to all our drivers over the weekend: PG Ed Novak, Edd & Anita Nolan, Bill Harris, Lou Childers, Mary Green, Bob Crist, Warren Kane, Ben Schlesinger and, of course, the Head Gardener.

K-FAMILY CONVENTIONS: The month of March, of course, is the scene of much rejoicing with Circle K and Key Club conventions holding forth on all their accomplishments for the past year and with new leadership taking over. I've been delighted to work with my counterparts -- CKI District Governor Brian Knowles and Key Club District Governor Bryan Longest -- and watching them inspire their members to new heights of community service and of enthusiasm. Thanks, Brian and Bryan!! I know that Gov-Elect Jerry Peuler will have an equally rewarding experience working with incoming CKI Governor Tara DiSciullo and Key Club Governor Lisa Sincavage……..

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION: The latest registrations are in for Capital - 53 members and 25 guests are going. So far, top honors go to Divisions 1 and 20 with 16 people each, followed by Div 12 with six, Divs 4, 9,and 17 with five each, Divs 2 & 13 with four each, Divs 16 & 24 with three each, Divs 11, 15 & 18 with two each, and Divs 10 & 22 with one each. There is still time to come to Taipei and Asia at a great price and experience the mystique of the Orient! International has arranged for many sightseeing tours to take place as part of the Convention program so you and you families can work the tours together.

DISTRICT CONVENTION: Momentum is gathering for Tyner's Tigers Grand Finale in Hagerstown in August 17-19. Education Chair Harold Laurent is interested in hearing from anyone who would like to put on a roundtable to talk about a club project or would be willing to host a panel on a topic of general interest to our membership. If you have an idea, send him an e-mail at hlaurent@home.com. For the theater buffs coming to Hagerstown, we will be having a dinner theater production "Shake, Rattle & Roll" on Friday night right at the Ramada. Particularly important to you delegates is the business session where we will be discussing and voting on the revised District bylaws and policy statements. Watch for a major article in the May Builder about the importance of the credentialing process by the clubs BEFORE delegates arrive at the convention site.

COMMUNICATION: We have been inundated with comments about Editor Mike Durkin's first issue of the Builder. It is obvious that you are hungry for changes. Well, we have heard those of you who commented about all the statistical data - it would be available on the web site for those few who wished to see it each month. What we will have in the monthly Builder will be the club rankings within their divisions. Now, you must do your part in providing articles and photographs to be considered for publication. See Mike's column in this issue for how to send this material in to him mjdurkin1@aol.com. And don't forget to peek at our District website occasionally for all the latest news and forms!! Look us up at http://www.capdistkiwanis.org......USE IT!!

I must say that I've had fun as I gallivant around the District -- check my web site for some of the pictures taken at events at which I've been. Just two more Official Visits, then on to steak frys, polo matches, picnics, etc. Once again, thanks for all the constructive comments about what the Capital District should be doing in the future. Who said Kiwanians didn't speak up??



Capital Builder - March 2001

The Ides of March are upon us and soon we will be halfway through this administrative year. Many of our successes in community service projects and fundraisers are behind us as we plan the remainder of this year. New member adds continue to be reported by our clubs as we invite our friends and neighbors to partake from the Kiwanis table. Inventive ways are being discovered for invigorating our clubs and refurbishing others as we take an honest look at what we are presenting to our communities. Let's make sure that our March reports to Ellis keep those trends cooking!! And now for some specifics……

POLO CLASSIC: Join us at an interclub opportunity hosted by the Woodbridge Club on June 9, 2001 at Great Meadows, VA where we will be able to appreciate fine weather, excellent horses, great vendors, yummy barbeque and marvelous dancing in the evening!! For only $20 per carload, you can bring your interclub for a day of fun. You can even watch our Board of Trustees and Finance Committee wrestle with weighty financial matters of the District. If "You Are There," you might see some senior officials of the District make public fools of themselves trying to play polo -- stick horses would be more appropriate for most of us. This year's activities benefit our pediatric trauma centers.

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION: There is still time to come to Taipei and Asia at a great price and experience the mystique of the Orient! International has arranged for many sightseeing tours to take place as part of the Convention program so you and you families can work the tours together -- not have one member at the delegate sessions and everyone else off on tour! If you went to Nice and Montreal, you should plan on Taipei to represent your club as a delegate.

EDUCATION: Spring training for incoming club presidents and other officers has been set up for PEPC (Presidents Elect Training Conference) under our elite "educators" who will help your new leadership acquire the skills they will need to lead Distinguished Clubs in Gov-Elect Jerry's year. Education Chair Harold Laurent will be letting the LTGs and LTGEs know where and when you can go to absorb more energy!!

COMMUNICATION: Mike Durkin has taken over as Builder Editor and welcomes articles and photographs to be considered for publication. If you have questions about something you want to send in, e-mail him at mjdurkin1@aol.com. And don't forget to peek at our District website occasionally for all the latest news and forms!! Look us up at http://www.capdistkiwanis.org......USE IT!!

WORLDWIDE SERVICE PROJECT: I want to continue my bald-face request for helping the District fulfill its pledge -- I looking for 142 good people to step up to the plate and get us the final "out" of this game. If your club or division is going to honor someone this year, do it NOW, or at least turn the money in and we can deliver the goodies later on. Remember that each $1,000 helps 20,000 kids in the world.

NEW CLUB BUILDING: While we are making progress with site selection and with finding out what communities needs are, we have yet to organize a new club in the District. The longer we wait, the tougher it is to organize it and keep it running. The leadership team this year commits to shepherding these brand new clubs for a year and it certainly is easier to do the sooner you get started.

I want to thank these Divisions and prospective sites: Div 2 (Galax or Hillsville), Div 3 (Bedford), Div 5 (Stuart's Draft), Div 7 (Claymont), Div 13 (Newport News), Div 17 (Bethesda), and Div 18 (Hopewell). Just so you know, we have room for more!! Just give me, or New Club Building Chair Jim Kauffman, a jingle.

POLICY STATEMENT Bob Powers' committee is hard at work revising, as needed, our policy statement that is our day-to-day guidance for all of us. We are looking for your help in the updating by going to our District web site at http://www.capdistkiwanis.org and going to "policy discussion" and following Chairman Bob's kind instructions. We want to consider your comments as we finish up. This will be a significant discussion item at the August House of Delegates.

Thanks to all for my friendly reception as I gallivant around the District -- check my web site for some of the pictures taken at events at which I've been. This month I'll be finishing up my Official Visits. I have gotten all sorts of constructive comments about where the Capital District should be heading. Who said Kiwanians don't speak up??



Capital Builder February 2001

Now that our extremely successful Midwinter Conference is over and we begin to put what we learned from each other to work, we can take a fresh look at where our clubs are headed and how we Kiwanians are prepared to bring friends and colleagues into our K-Family and when we will celebrate the fulfillment of our IDD pledge.

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION: Those of you who plan on going to Taipei should complete your reservations as soon as possible and get ready to join the other 80+ District Kiwanians who are rushing to visit Taiwan and Asia at a great price. Consider our convention as the keynote core of a longer vacation time experiencing the mystique of the Orient! And how nice to have sightseeing as part of the official schedule!

EDUCATION: We are beginning the Spring training warm-up sessions for incoming club presidents and other officers. Some of you beat the rush by taking PEPC (Presidents Elect Training Conference) at the Midwinter Conference under the awesome tutelage of Don Dudey. All the rest of you budding presidents will have an opportunity to take this required training at selected sites around the District. We are not changing the divisional groupings or locations this year, but once the dates have been set Education Chair Harold Laurent will be letting the LTGs and LTGEs know where and when you can go to absorb more energy!!

COMMUNICATION: It is with mixed feelings that I announce to you that our District Editor of the "Capital Builder" Robert Hughes has retired. My sadness is that after 16 years of service, he acknowledged that increasing responsibilities with his professional position have interfered with his Kiwanis volunteer duties (heaven forbid!). My gratitude is for Robert's and Ruth Ann's efforts for shepherding the "Builder" through many years -- including several International Awards of Excellence. We all wish him well as he recalibrates his life.

It is with utmost pleasure that I can announce that our new Editor is Michael Durkin, a very experienced graphics person, well known in Division 17 and in his own Rockville Club for all the posters and flyers he has done. And for those of you who remember it, my Governor-Elect literature and Jim Kauffman's International Treasurer literature were both done by Mike. He will be working to coordinate the hardcopy Builder with its appearance on our web site. So don't forget to consult our District website at http://www.capdistkiwanis.org......USE IT!!

KIWANIS VOLUNTEERISM: Let me thank the following persons for stepping up to serve you on three important District committees - please thank them when you see them:

• Long Range Planning: Irv Washington (Div 1), Ron Reynolds (Div 2), John Fox (Div 3), Sandi Scannelli (Div 5), Linda Walls (Div 11), Dig DeGarmo as Chair (Div 12), Dave Blanch (Div 14), Ramsey Geyer (Div 17) and Tom Varner (Div 24).
• District Meetings: Linwood Watson (Div 1), Art Eppihimer as Chair (Div 7), Betty Slifer (Div 9), Frank Dulong (Div 13), Nate Pearson (Div 15), Bill Roberson and Larry Watson (Div 20), Bob Reilly (Div 21) and Charlie Adams (Div 24).
• Budget and Finance: Charlie Adams, Pres Davis, Dave Espie, Jim Kauffman, Gus Lamond (as Chair) and Bob Powers.

Keep an eye out for those Kiwanians who are helping your Lieutenant governors by working as Division Chairs -- an unsung job in most cases -- and I'd ask you to make a special point to thank them for their efforts in keeping the administrative stuff moving.

WORLDWIDE SERVICE PROJECT: Thanks to pledges at the Conference, we are pushing to finish our goal -- we now need just 145 Kiwanians out of our membership of 8,200 to step up to a Hixson, a Hixson Diamond or a Tablet of Honor, and we=ll have done it!! How about taking YOUR turn to help 20,000 kids in the world?

Kiwanis international keeps all sorts of statistics on IDD donations. As of November 16th, out of the top 100 clubs or divisions, the Leisure World club is ranked #62 in total cash giving by a club and Division 17 ranked #26 to total cash giving by a division. In total giving per member by club, we have four: Chesterfield at #41, Great Bridge at #72, Rossmoor at #79 and Northwest Washington at #80. In total giving per member by division, we have three: Division 17 ranked #25, Division 24 ranked #62, and division 13 ranked #99.

HONORS BANNER: Capital District has 13 clubs who have reached Honors Banner distinction. In alphabetical order, they are: Alexandria, Chesterfield, Eastern Branch, Georgetown (DC), Gloucester, Hampton, James River, Loch Raven, Mercury 64, Northwest Washington, Rockville, Rossmoor and Suburban Frederick. All our clubs can meet the eligibility for a banner. If you have a membership of 30 or less, you must have a minimum of 10 Hixson and Tablet recipients in your club. If you have 31 or more, you must have a minimum of one-third of that membership number holding Hixsons and Tablets. This count is for individual awards -- not Diamonds which indicate a level of Foundation support. When you meet the criteria and we'll get you an Honors Banner!

MEMBERSHIP: I'm hoping that all of you are bringing guests to your meetings so they will experience the thrill of Kiwanis community service. To make a pitch for you to redouble your efforts is kinda hard since such personal touches are just that -- only YOU can bring guests and encourage membership. You must want to bring your friends and associates into the K-Family - and it is up to you. Is your club participating in the Six Pack Program, especially the "4 Under 40 " package deal? If not, ask your president when your club will get started!

DISTRICT BYLAWS and POLICY STATEMENT: An incident at our Roanoke District Convention clearly showed that our Bylaws needed to be updated. The District Executive Committee made a decision in good faith to correct administrative oversights to allow some delegates to be seated, in essence overriding the Credentials Committee. Unfortunately the Committee's action (including my own as a committee member) was not consistent with the written bylaws. For that action, as Governor, I apologize to our membership, and note that it will never happen again. Our Bylaws Committee has been busy as bees working on suggested bylaw changes to bring them into conformance with those of Kiwanis International and up-to-date as far as how the District operates. The Board approved the proposed new bylaws in Williamsburg and recommend your approval in the House of Delegates in Hagerstown.

The second BIGGER project they are now beginning on is our policy statement that is our day-to-day guidance for all of us. As with the bylaws, you can participate in the updating of the statement by going to our District web site at http://www.capdistkiwanis.org and going to "policy discussion" and following Chairman Bob's kind instructions. We absolutely need your input NOW so that your comments can be considered fully and carefully by the committee. It's really of no use to moan and groan at the last minute when everything is ready for approval. So, do it now.

See you again as I trundle around the District finishing up my Official Visits and listening to what you have to say!!!

Capital Builder January 2001

Now that we know that our New Year's Resolutions are set and WILL BE carried out, we can take a fresh look at where our clubs are headed and how we Kiwanians are prepared to bring friends and colleagues into our K-Family and when we will celebrate the fulfillment of our IDD pledge.

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION: Those of you who plan on going to Taipei should complete your reservations with InConTra as soon as possible and get ready to join the other 100+ District Kiwanians who are rushing to visit Taiwan and Asia at a great price. Consider our convention as the keynote core of a longer vacation time experiencing the mystique of the Orient! And how nice to have sightseeing as part of the official schedule.

EDUCATION: We are beginning the Spring training warm-up sessions for incoming club presidents and other officers. Some of you beat the rush by taking PEPC (Presidents Elect Training Conference) at the Midwinter Conference under the awesome tutelage of Don Dudey. All the rest of you budding presidents will have an opportunity to take this required training at selected sites around the District. We are not changing the divisional groupings or locations this year, but once the dates have been set Education Chair Harold Laurent will be letting the LTGs and LTGEs know where and when you can go to absorb more energy!!

COMMUNICATION: It is with mixed feelings that I announce to you that our District Editor of the "Capital Builder" Robert Hughes is retiring. My sadness is that after 16 years of service, he acknowledges that increasing responsibilities with his professional position have interfered with his Kiwanis volunteer duties (heaven forbid!). My gratitude is for Robert's and Ruth Ann's efforts for shepherding the "Builder" through many years -- including several International Awards of Excellence. We all wish him well as he recalibrates his life.

It is with utmost pleasure that I can announce that our hunt for the next editor has been quickly successful -- our new Editor will be Michael Durkin, a very experienced graphics person, well known in Division 17 and in his own Rockville Club for all the posters and flyers he has done. And for those of you who remember it, my Governor-Elect literature and Jim Kauffman's International Treasurer literature were both done by Mike. He will be working with Robert over the next few weeks transitioning to adding his byline to our February "Capital Builder." We anticipate some changes in how the Builder will look, and a subcommittee of the Board of Trustees is looking into different production and delivery possibilities. In the meantime, don't forget to consult our District website at http://www.capdistkiwanis.org......USE IT!!

WORLDWIDE SERVICE PROJECT: As we are now into January, we are pushing to finish our goal -- your response has been great and we now need just 240 Kiwanians out of our membership of 8,200 to step up to a Hixson, a Hixson Diamond or a Tablet of Honor, and we'll have done it!! How about taking YOUR turn to help 20,000 kids in the world? Let's announce to the world at Williamsburg that we have reached our goal!! It looks like our December 31 total was just about $1,270,000………

HONORS BANNER: Capital District has 13 clubs who have reached Honors Banner distinction. In alphabetical order, they are: Alexandria, Chesterfield, Eastern Branch, Georgetown (DC), Gloucester, Hampton, James River, Loch Raven, Mercury 64, Northwest Washington, Rockville, Rossmoor and Suburban Frederick. All our clubs can meet the eligibility for a banner. If you have a membership of 30 or less, you must have a minimum of 10 Hixson and Tablet recipients in your club. If you have 31 or more, you must have a minimum of one-third of that membership number holding Hixsons and Tablets. This count is for individual awards -- not Diamonds which indicate a level of Foundation support. Let me know if you meet the criteria and we'll get you an Honors Banner!

MEMBERSHIP: I'm hoping that all of you are bringing guests to your meetings so they will experience the thrill of Kiwanis community service. To make a pitch for you to redouble your efforts is kinda hard since such personal touches are just that -- only YOU can bring guests and encourage membership. You must want to bring your friends and associates into the K-Family - and it is up to you. Is your club participating in the Six Pack Program, especially the "4 Under 40 " package deal? If not, ask your president when your club will get started! And those of you who have inducted new members, be sure to bring them to Williamsburg Midwinter so they really get a flavor of what we are about and be introduced at Saturday's luncheon.

DISTRICT BYLAWS and POLICY STATEMENT: Our committee has been busy as bees working on our suggested bylaw changes to bring them into conformance with those of Kiwanis International and up-to-date as far as how the District operates. You will have an opportunity to comment on them before voting on them in August. The second BIGGER project they are now beginning on is our policy statement that is our day-to-day guidance for all of us. As with the bylaws, you can participate in the updating of the statement by going to our District web site at http://www.capdistkiwanis.org and going to "policy discussion" and following Chairman Bob's kind instructions. We absolutely need your input NOW so that your comments can be considered fully and carefully by the committee. It's really of no use to moan and groan at the last minute when everything is ready for approval. So, do it now.

See you again as I trundle around the District finishing up my Official Visits and listening to what you have to say!!!

Capital Builder December 2000

As we approach this holiday season for many faiths and cultures, let's reflect on our diversity in membership and in community projects. I can't tell you via these written words how I am heartened by my interactions with you as I travel around our tremendous District. Pat yourselves on your collective backs -- despite what you personally think about what you particular club is (or isn't) doing, when all are efforts are put into a District-wide perspective, Kiwanians are doing outstanding things for those in need.

Let me thank the following persons for stepping up to serve you on three important District committees - please thank them when you see them:

• Long Range Planning: Irv Washington (Div 1), Ron Reynolds (Div 2), John Fox (Div 3), Sandi Scannelli (Div 5), Linda Walls (Div 11), Dig DeGarmo as Chair (Div 12), Dave Blanch (Div 14), Ramsey Geyer (Div 17) and Tom Varner (Div 24).
• District Meetings: Linwood Watson (Div 1), Art Eppihimer as Chair (Div 7), Betty Slifer (Div 9), Frank Dulong (Div 13), Nate Pearson (Div 15), Bill Roberson and Larry Watson (Div 20), Bob Reilly (Div 21) and Charlie Adams (Div 24).
• Budget and Finance: Charlie Adams, Pres Davis, Dave Espie, Jim Kauffman, Gus Lamond (as Chair) and Bob Powers.

Keep an eye out for those Kiwanians who are helping your Lieutenant governors by working as Division Chairs -- an unsung job in most cases -- and I'd ask you to make a special point to thank them for their efforts in keeping the administrative stuff moving.

COMMUNICATION: Just about everything you and your club will need that your Lieutenant governor may not have on his/her fingertips can be retrieved from our District website (http://www.capdistkiwanis.org). And Bob Powers has added other links to K-family sites as well. Just so you know........USE IT!!

WORLDWIDE SERVICE PROJECT: As we are now into December, we are pushing to finish our goal -- your response has been great and we now need just 240 Kiwanians out of our membership of 8,200 receive a Hixson, a Hixson Diamond or a Tablet of Honor, we'll have done it!! How about taking YOUR turn to help 20,000 kids in the world? Let's announce to the world at Williamsburg that we have reached our goal!!

Kiwanis International keeps all sorts of statistics on IDD donations. As of November 16th, out of the top 100 clubs or divisions, the Leisure World club is ranked #62 in total cash giving by a club and Division 17 ranked #26 to total cash giving by a division. In total giving per member by club, we have four: Chesterfield at #41, Great Bridge at #72, Rossmoor at #79 and Northwest Washington at #80. In total giving per member by division, we have three: Division 17 ranked #25, Division 24 ranked #62, and Division 13 ranked #99.

I am enjoying tremendously the reception I'm receiving as I move around our District on my Official Visits. It has been great fun meeting everyone, greeting old friends, and listening to the sage advice given freely and frankly by many of you. You know what you want to do in your club and division -- and I've pledged that Tyner's Tigers will help you wherever we can. Now, let's talk about a few things this month:

COMMUNICATION: I am making a big push to publicize our Internet links we have set up for you to use in our District website (http://www.capdistkiwanis.org). Just so you know........

1. All 23 Lieutenant Governors have e-mail addresses so you can contact your District Trustee directly on the issues. Come visit "Leadership"
2. 36 of 38 District Chairpersons have e-mail addresses so you can contact our subject matter experts directly with your question or request. Come visit "Leadership"
3. 19 of 23 Division Growth & Vitality Chairpersons have e-mail addresses so you can get direct information and advice about improving your "product" (club operation) to help you attract new "customers" (members) this year. Come visit "Leadership"
4. For the first time, you can register your comments and opinions about those issues being discussed by your District Board. As you know I have appointed a committee to take a very close look at our bylaws and policy statement, especially at election campaigning and in credentialing of delegates. Come visit "Policy Discussion Area"
5. They say a picture is worth a thousand words. Be sure to take a look at Bob Powers' great selection of pictures -- maybe you're in one! Come visit "Photo Gallery"

WORLDWIDE SERVICE PROJECT: We are rapidly closing in on our $1.5 million goal in fighting the effects of IDD upon the children of the world.. We are in a countdown mode - $300,000 left and decreasing every day. I know we will be able to celebrate our successful finish at the Williamsburg Midwinter Conference. Well folks, if just 300 Kiwanians out of our membership of 8,200 receive a Hixson, a Hixson Diamond or a Tablet of Honor, we'll have done it!! Okay....your turn to help 20,000 kids in the world! And don't forget, charitable deduction time is coming up for all of us.

MEMBERSHIP: My emphasis on membership AND new club building is already bearing fruit. Most divisions I've visited have already been inducting new members and District New Club Building Chair Jim Kauffman is working with four sites for new clubs. I ask your clubs to make a extra effort to bring more friends and associates as strictly guests to your club. Think about it as public relations to let them see that you are proud of our Kiwanis brand of community service. Your guests will talk to their friends and so forth. And if you've prepared the garden properly, all you will have to do is ASK!!

MIDWINTER CONFERENCE: I encourage you to attend our midwinter conference in Williamsburg on February 1-4, 2001 at the Williamsburg Hospitality House. You received the registration form in the October Capital Builder and the Conference Schedule is in this issue. We have made some critical changes this year, based on your comments:

1. Training sessions have been arranged in sequence under particular interests. There are no repeat sessions and all are moderated by experts in that subject. Please note that we have a "First Timer" session for those who have never been to a conference.
2. There will be a Governor's Honors Reception on Friday night before we all go to dinner at one of the marvelous Williamsburg restaurants. In cooperation with our Kiwanis International Foundation and the Capital District Foundation, I will be honoring all of you who have made significant contributions to their programs. And those who are receiving awards will have them presented at this time so they will have them during the convention.
3. And the biggest change of all will be the Governor's Banquet at which no business or presentations will be conducted. Food, conversation/gossip, then music and dancing opportunities! You can leave whenever you wish. So be sure to sign up and come enjoy yourself at a social event.

Remember that Tyner's Tigers are here to help you, provide encouragement for your efforts, and lend hands-on assistance when possible. However, only YOU can accomplish your goals!

Carpe Diem "SEIZE THE DAY!"

The Capital District Year of the Tiger has now begun. And your Governor has had great fun planning for what will become our most successful year ever in the District. The Tigers have met, read, discussed, trained, practiced and visited in all areas of the District. Plans for successfully achieving our two major goals have been implemented and we're roaring to go!! Those two goals are:

1. Bringing more friends and associates into our Kiwanis brand of community service. The need for our special activities is there throughout our district and we all know many folks we can bring into our clubs to help us provide that service. All we have to do is ASK!! Our goal is to get back to 10,000 members.

2. Completing our Worldwide Service Project - IDD by the end of December, with a celebration at our Williamsburg Midwinter Conference to be presided over by our International Counselor David Henderson. Five years ago, many scoffed at us pledging to raise $1.5 million. Well, people, all we need to finish is $330,000. EASY - if each of our 210 clubs honors just one member with a Tablet of Honor before the donation goes to $2,000 after December 31st and if 120 of our 430 Hixson and Hixson Diamond Fellows upgrade to the next level. I challenge you all to finish now. I've already matched 10% of what my Tigers have pledged and received my Diamond #7, next comes my Diamond #8 before the end of the year. Okay…..your turn to help 20,000 kids in the world!

The key to success in Capital has always been our sense of teamwork -- we are not islands in an archipelago, we are a community service World and we have clearly demonstrated that as Kiwanians we can accomplish whatever we set our minds to. All of your elected and appointed leadership (read Lt-Governors and District Chairs) are here for one purpose - to assist you in accomplishing your goals and participating with you in making sure your projects are successful. Pride and joy in being a Kiwanian is contagious and will help you find within yourself the enthusiasm to bring new folks into the fold by asking them to become Kiwanians themselves.

K-Family spirit abounds - just take a look at the pictures up on our District web site. From Tiger songs being written and cars being wrapped at K-Family weekend, to having the governor pontificate on the issues while standing on a chair, to having Governor's Official Visits be a real visit at a project or at a less formal occasion (encouraging more members to attend a less-expensive event), to having all your Lt-Governors and all but two of the District Chairs on e-mail - we have set the stage for you. It is up to you to make our garden grow, and we're all here to help you. Please check the District web site or my Tyner's Tigers web site for all the latest news. Did I tell you that my Division 17 gave me instructions on how to be successful? Look them up on my site. Remember that my eyes are on the goals, not the problems, and there are many ways to reach those goals.

Carpe Diem - "SEIZE THE DAY!"

(L-R) Div 18 LTG Don Schroeder, Head Gardener, Colonial Hts. Pres Billy Conwell

(L-R) Past Gov Joe Hillier and his new Tablet of Honor, Past Gov Howard Brown & Gov John

Energetic Discussion at PCM

Divison 13 Hixson Presentations

Key Club LTG Mamta
Jhaveri & CKI LTG Stephanie Kohout
at Div 1 Official Visit