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MICHIGAN Builder
Serving the children of the world | Michigan District | Feb/Mar 2021 Issue
I have just
nine toes
Which makes me different
Which makes me And in embracing what makes us unique is just one
just as normal reason why our lives are so sacred. And why it would
as you, because be such a tragedy to succumb to suicide.
when you stop and I nearly did. At the time, in my underdeveloped
consider it, you too psyche, I thought myself not pretty enough. So I went
are distinguished into the basement of our family home where I knew
by something that a rifle to be kept, aimed it at my chest and pulled the
trigger.
separates your
essence from mine. I was 10 years old.
>> CLICK TO READ MORE
calendar
calendar || february/march calendar & officers
Michigan Builder
Michigan District of Kiwanis International
February
(USPS344-660)
Vol. LXXXV
February/March 2021 No. 3
3 Equity Excellence (11:30 am - 1 pm)
Phone: (517) 676-3837
Feb. 3, 10.17, 24 (Wednesday)
4 Let’s Talk 8 pm - Feb 11,18, 25 (Thursday) Toll Free: (877) MIKIWANIS
Fax: (517) 676-6600
6 New Member Orientation - 9 am / 10 am
E-Mail: executivedirector@mikiwanis.org
LG Training for 2021-22 year starts www.mikiwanis.org
15 Deadline for ALL CLUBS filing IRS 990 GOVERNOR
17 District Convention Planning Meeting Fran Babbage
20 Kiwanis Cafe - 9 am / 10 am
GOVERNOR-ELECT
Rosemary Robinson
March IMMEDIATE PAST GOVERNOR
Sarah Kew
NO DATE Club Leadership Education (CLE) Online begins
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
4 Let’s Talk at 8 pm on March 11, 18, 25 (Thursdays) Greg Smith
6 New Member Orientation - 9 am / 10 am
PUBLISHED BI-MONTHLY
10 Fountain Communications, Inc.
Equity Excellence Community of Practice
at 11:30 am - 12:45 pm Julanne Williams
13 Spring Divisional- 4,5,6 email: julanne1@me.com
19-21 Key Club- District Convention, Online
DESIGN AND LAYOUT
20 Circle K- District Convention- Online Gerry Talarico
THE MICHIGAN BUILDER
20 Kiwanis Cafe - 9 am / 10 am
is published Bi-monthly for $20 per year, by
27 Spring Divisional - 10,16 The Michigan District of Kiwanis,
P.O. Box 231, Mason, MI 48854.
Articles are due to the editor by the 5th of the month
priorto the month of publication.
Builder Publication Schedule
Issue Deadline Issue Deadline
Feb/Mar Jan. 5 Aug/Sept. July 5
Apr/May Mar. 5 Oct/Nov. Sept.5
* indicates dates June/July May 5 Dec/Jan Nov. 5
and events Club
Presidents and
Attention: Club Presidents, Secretaries & Bulletin Editors;
Secretaries
should note Lt. Governors and District Chairpersons. Submit all articles, photos and
video to Thebuilder@mikiwanis.org. All photo and artwork must be sent
as either jpg or bmp files. Video must be sent as mpeg files.
2 KiwanisMichigan February/March 2021
governor-elect || Tell everyone WHO WE ARE!!
governor || fulfilling promises to children
SERVICE AND I have been in contact with many clubs by
Communications zoom or through the lieutenant governors and
tell everyone
I am very pleased to hear of all the service
projects that have been going on during this
pandemic and how we are communicating to
WHO WE ARE!!
others about the service we do for children.
A few of the projects were:
• Cards and little gift bags were made by one club
• Thanksgiving and Christmas food distributions. Often it for more than 270 teachers. (Those have not been
was dropping the food off on the doorstep and ringing delivered because school was shut down, but the cards
the doorbell and departing before the household and gifts are ready to go as soon as school reopens)
member got to the door. The Kiwanis members that • Newspaper Drive. Instead of standing on the street
were part of these projects stated it was very rewarding corner, several Kiwanis clubs mailed the newspapers to
helping out others in their time of need. citizens. They did not ask for a donation. The club just
• Coat Drives, Shoe Drives, Scarves, Mittens, Boots and wanted to let the citizens know the work Kiwanis has
Diaper Drives were conducted in many clubs across been doing in the community.
the state and were distributed to those in need. • Literacy Projects. Working with their public library
• Sometimes
Popcorn Delivery.we
One areKiwanis
so busyclub
working on a project
that usually “Whatwhen
does aKiwanis on yourout
child checked shirta or
bookjacket
from mean?” -
the library.
for Kiwanis
sponsors we forget
a movie, to let
instead others
chose to know whopopcorn
pass out we are. you can explain it. and craft projects were distributed to
Worksheets
Andays,
for two instance of people
as the that wasdrove
whenup thetolocal YMCA was
the movie Westudents
need tobyalsotheremember
Kiwanis Club. (Seea article
we are global from Garden
theater
puttingparking area.
out their brochure on cognitively impaired City Club
organization thatelsewhere
is helpinginchildren
this builder.)
around the world.
• children Army
Salvation programs
Bell and several
Ringing. of themmembers
Although were titled • DoDolly
any Parton
of yourImagination
neighbors and friends
Library realize that
program. Funds were
Kiwanis sponsored. Many parents had
stayed 6 feet away from the shoppers and wiped no idea who
the or Kiwanis has been
provided toeliminating
the program neonatal
so a childtetanus around
receives a book in
what was Kiwanis.
kettle off after each deposit, they felt the donations the world? Didevery
the mail any of you shout
month untill for
they joy and
are tell
5-years-old.
were No onethis
higher knew the Kiwanis club had worked
year. others that we just
• Expectant eliminated
Parents were neo
given natal tetanus
goodie bagsinand
the
• withfor
Toys theTot
administrator at the
collections with oneYMCA andactually
division chose to Democratic Republicbooks.
informational of the Congo. This is the 27th
sponsor several events that allowed the
having a contest and the winning club donating overfamilies of country we have helped eliminate it in.
• Repaired a playground at a school that has a high
the cognitively
500 toys. impaired children to attend the events We have been working on this for such a long
percentage of disadvantaged children. The club has
free. time that many people forget how important it is to
• Salvation Army Angel Tree program. Kiwanians were raised over $12,500.
We need to get the word out on WHO WE ARE! save the children from such an excruciating death.
also able to collect many additional gifts for the • We Delivered
We need to shout out WE ARE KIWANIS!
children. seem totoys,
forget clothing, furniture,
to let others knowChristmas
who we are.
If you have been following Executive Director decorations and
So, let’s start shouting out gifts to numerous families in need.
• Encouragement Cards (See article from Ann Arbor club elsewhere in this
has were
listedwritten
severaland distributed
We Are Kiwanis!!!
Greg’s articles, he things we can do
to the teachers and/or students during this time of builder.)
to let others know about Kiwanis.
pandemic. • By doing these service projects and many more not
I think one of the easiest is for members to wear
• Gift bagsbranded
Kiwanis and cardsitems
for more than when
and then 250 children to do
others ask, mentioned in this article and by conducting fundraisers
projects and read a book at home. including selling nuts, raffle tickets and other items.
We are fulfilling our promise to help the children and
Fran Babbage let the citizens know WE ARE KIWANIS.
2020-21 Governor
Fran Babbage
EVERYONE KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!
Michigan District | 2019-20 Governor-Elect | Michigan District
Governor@mikiwanis.org
Governor-elect@mikiwanis.org
4 KiwanisMichigan December 2019/January 2020
3 KiwanisMichigan February/March 2021
governor-elect || growing slighty brighter
LIGHT AT THE END
OF THE TUNNEL
On the plane today, the flight attendant had me laughing as she
said "In the event of loss of cabin pressure, I must remove my mask
before putting on the oxygen mask". But what really struck with
me was when she demonstrated this process – I could see her face,
expression, her lipstick, and her smile. I really miss seeing people’s
smiles and am happy to see the light at the end of the tunnel
growing slightly brighter.
I was on a call yesterday with a global market strategist and he was
chatting about their expectations of how our world has evolved over
the past year and which of those changes they expect to be more
permanent. One change is that more employees will continue to
work from home instead of commuting. This is a great opportunity
for our Kiwanis clubs. Now some of these workers who were
interested in joining/volunteering will have a few extra hours or more
ability to flex their time to attend meetings and service projects.
But are we ready for new members? Will
our clubs be welcoming? Will our projects YOU CAN FIND
and fundraisers be of interest to them? One
THE MEMBER
way to determine these answers is to take a
survey of our current members and see what SATISFACTION
they like or possibly dislike about the club. SURVEY HERE.
(It’s OK to dislike something – I disliked the
restaurant we met in pre-COVID.) Kiwanis has created a survey to
help us determine our member’s satisfaction. The answers to this
survey or something similar will help the club find ways to attract
potential members and retain current members.
I’d love to hear from you – questions, concerns, victories to
celebrate, etc. And when you sponsor a new member, let me know!
Thank you for all you are doing!
Rosemary Robinson 2021 EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS ARE STARTING.
2020-2021 Governor-Elect CHECK OUT THE CALENDAR OF EVENTS AT
Michigan District
Governor-Elect@mikiwanis.org WWW.MIKIWANIS.ORG OR ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGE.
4 KiwanisMichigan February/March 2021
executive director || good news for your club!
GOOD NEWS!
executive direc
A NEW MEMBER IS JOINING YOUR CLUB.
Your club has focused on adding new members. You are talking to friends, family and people you meet about Kiwanis. You
are wearing Kiwanis items to create more visibility in the community. You are publicizing your service projects and fundraisers. All
because more members result in your club making a greater impact in the community to help kids.
That’s Great! Guess What? It worked!
New members are joining. Now you need to make sure they stay engaged and keep the enthusiasm they had when they
decided to join. Ultimately, your club needs to stay in touch with them, but here are some things the District is doing to help.
1. I am calling each new member who joins and welcoming them to
Everyone in your club can attend these
Kiwanis. I either speak with them or leave them a message for them
to call me. including your new members. Taking
2. Governor Fran is sending a welcome note card to all the new advantage of these along with what your club
members that includes a list of all the online items listed below. is already doing can help ensure your new
3. New Member Orientation, the First Saturday of every month at 9 am members will remain with Kiwanis for many
and 10 am. This is a one-hour overview of Kiwanis at the International years to come. But it will take everyone’s
and District level. It is meant to supplement your own club’s new focused effort to provide your new members
member orientation, not replace it. with a great Kiwanis experience. Perhaps you
4. Kiwanis Café the Third Saturday of every month at 9 am and 10 am. will also receive many emails like the one I
These are one-hour education sessions on various topics related to recently received.
helping your club get new ideas and suggestions for improvement.
5. Kiwanis Let’s Talk every Thursday at 8:00pm. Wide range of topics
both Kiwanis and non-Kiwanis related. Kiwanians' from around the
world have attended these sessions.
essive
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Although I'v ok forward to
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experience
Sincerely,
Roxan Elliott
Greg Smith | Executive Director | Michigan District
executivedirector@mikiwanis.org
Greg Smith | E
5 KiwanisMichigan February/March 2021 executivedirector@mik
Cover Page || I have nine toes contiuned
Through what I can only attest was a series of miracles, I somehow survived. Paramount was the mistaken
notion that my heart was located on the right side of my chest. Had I aimed more to the left, my name
would only whisper to you from some weathered tombstone.
I went on to excel in school, sports, business and more. I came to understand that I mattered. Today,
I direct a non-profit called “Embracing Imperfections.” My life is now dedicated to educating people
about what I call “the power of one.” I spend part of every day trying to prevent suicide.
Recently, I forged an agreement to formally partner with Kiwanis. With articles like this one, Kiwanis
increases its reach to those who need to be educated. As part of our collaboration, I hope to book more
speaking engagements so I can further inspire young adults
about what options they have besides taking their lives.
Why? Because suicide is a quiet monster. Each year,
more than 800,000 people die from suicide in the
U.S. alone. That’s an average of 129 per day.
Among those aged 10 through 24, it’s the second-
leading cause of death. And for every person
who succeeds at suicide, an estimated 25 others
attempt it.
In a world made even more challenging by a
Pandemic, suicide needs to be addressed and
better understood. My goal is to demonstrate
how by harnessing the power within you, it’s
possible to beat depression and move forward
in ways that give you purpose. To soar.
If you or your organization is seeking a
passionate speaker craving opportunities
to share her story and inject a message of
love and hope into your people and your
culture, please reach out. If together, we
can save but one young adult from a
tragedy-in-the-making, we’ve made it
a better world, haven’t we?
Contact Shandy Longcore
by calling 616-516-8281
### or visiting
www.embracingimperfections.org
6 KiwanisMichigan February/March 2021
district news || partnership page and club news
Kiwanis International and the Michigan District of
Kiwanis create special partnerships to help nurture
and prepare young people to be leaders. As
leaders they will make ethical and moral choices
while providing service to their communities.
Even during a pandemic, children and Kiwanians
still maintain relationships and find ways to serve
others.
The Boy Scouts of America give young
people the training they need to lead.
Working with your club, Boy Scouts will
further their development, even taking
on leadership roles in joint projects and fundraisers. The
BRIGHTON
Toys for Tots
Kiwanis International partnership gives them access to our
Kiwanis resources and we have additional help with hands
on projects. Click tis link to learn more about Michigan
scouting.
The Kiwanis Club of Brighton picked up
Girl Scouts offers the best leadership
over 50 boxes of donated toys from local
development experience for girls in the world;
one that is designed with, by, and for girls. businesses in the Brighton area and delivered
Many Kiwanis clubs already have relationships them to the Toys for Tots Howell distribution
with the Girl Scouts to help with Kiwanis service projects and center. Kiwanians were assigned locations
Kiwanians can help these young girls and women to achieve
and for two weeks picked up the toys for the
their greatest potential. For Lower Michigan three councils
govern the various troops. If your Kiwanis club would like to local Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. The
find a local troop to partner with, or to learn more about the Marines and volunteers sorted the thousands
activities in your area, click on one of these links:
of donated toys by age and gender.
WEST MICHIGAN TROOPS SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN TROOPS This year, parents provided shopping list
CENTRAL AND LOWER MICHIGAN TROOPS
and volunteers shopped and bagged toys for
a drive up pick up.
Gary Dunn of the local Marine Corp tells
In every community, many children are
left to find their own recreation and us that donations were down, but every child
companionship. An increasing number still got their Christmas wishes. The Toys for
have no adult care or supervision at home. Young people
Tots in Midland called the Saturday before
need to know that someone cares about them. That’s where
a local Boys & Girls Club comes in. It’s a safe place where Christmas asking for toys for 400 children due
kids can play, learn and grow. And it’s where adult volunteers to the dam that failed in the spring. Families
help young people, especially those who need it most, reach had little or no money for toys for Christmas.
their full potential. Members learn about citizenship, service,
Truckloads of toys were delivered and
healthy lifestyles and much more. Click this link to find a club
near you. distributed thanks to donations from Livingston
County. Every child had a Christmas.
7 KiwanisMichigan February/March 2021
district news || how to have more fun!
TOP
TIPS
For Adding FUN to your
Kiwanis Virtual Meetings
1. Lead with Enthusiasm
2. Include Hands-On Activities
3. Try themed-meetings
4. Highlight a key speaker
5. Throw in a little humor
6. Offer multiple ways to participate
7. Host a Happy Hour
8. Play a game
9. Focus on positive sharing
10. Invite a friend
Julanne Williams & Melissa Rubingh
Prepared by the 2020-2021 Kiwanis of
Michigan District Fun Committee
8 KiwanisMichigan February/March 2021
club news || future project
REMINDER AND UPDATE
Children Are
Our Future Project
The 4 requirements to receive a special banner patch have had some alterations
due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
A) This is a new project.
Still challenging clubs to find a NEW PROJECT to serve the children ages 0-5 in your community. (In some
cases, clubs have asked for permission to expand a project to include those ages.) One of the goals of this
new project is to get the Kiwanis name out into the community!
Originally, we wanted this to be a hands-on project - but with Covid Restrictions, which will continue for an
unknown amount of time, the project can be something that serves the 0-5 years old, without personal contact.
B) Spring Divisional presentation is required.
If a club (or division) has a project planned for later in the spring or summer, the project should still be
explained at Spring Divisional, with the understanding that it will be done after the date of divisionals.
Originally at Spring Divisional, we requested a poster board display of the project, with pictures, and
information. We realize this will be too hard to do on Zoom.
We are asking each club to send a short, written description of the project (along with the information
sheet to your Lt. Governor and Governor Fran. Then at the Spring Divisional, Governor Fran or your Lt
Governor will briefly present the Children are our Future project descriptions to the others.
C) Information sheet filled out and submitted to Governor Fran by the Spring Divisional.
The completed information sheet should be submitted to Governor Fran (email franbabbage@yahoo.com, fax
313 386 2086) and the Lt Governor of the division before the Spring Divisional. (If the project has not occurred
yet, the submitted sheet may not be totally filled out. It can be updated at convention time.)
D) Poster board/tri fold display displayed at the August 2021 Convention in Dearborn. (If no one
from your club is attending convention, the Lt Gov can bring your display to the convention.)
Patches will be handed out at the Convention.
9 KiwanisMichigan February/March 2021
club news || C.S. Motts Foundation
C.S. MOTT CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL’S
MUSIC THERAPY PROGRAM THRIVES IN 2019
For sure, 2019 was a most difficult year for all of us, including our Kiwanis of Michigan Foundation
friends at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital (Michigan Medicine). And while the challenges were many
for the entire Child & Family Life Program at C.S. Mott and in particular for the music therapy team
therein, this group actually managed to thrive by coming up with innovative and creative ways to
reach and support C.S. Mott’s hospitalized children. To this end and quoting from Meredith Irvine
(The Manager of Music Therapy and a board certified music therapist at C.S. Mott’s):
“It is an honor and privilege to partner with The Kiwanis of Michigan Foundation. Your support
of the music therapy program at Michigan Medicine’s C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital and Sophie’s
Place (a dedicated music therapy studio space that will soon open at the hospital) is astounding.
We are beyond grateful for your support and thank you for your ongoing generous contributions
over the years.”
10 KiwanisMichigan February/March 2021club news || C.S. Motts Foundation
Sophie’s Place Heartbeat Recording Program
Central to how as well as why the music This incredible program has been an important part of
Click to watch video
therapy program at Mott’s has succeeded the music therapy program at C.S. Mott’s for a number
in these most difficult of times is the of years now. More specifically, it allows an at-risk child to record his
development of a truly state of the art heartbeat and accompany it with music of his or her choice.Additionally,
while the annual Mott Memorial for “Little Victors” that were no longer
music studio, “Sophie’s Place”. There are
with us had to be cancelled in 2019 due to COVID, the music therapy
two projects that have been key to rolling team made sure that these patients and their families were not forgotten
out “Sophie’s Place” as this unique music and composed a series of original compositions that created a virtual
studio will be used to support all the staff at experience for all.
Michigan Medicine.
Music Therapy Providing Support To Children About To
Undergo A Major Procedure
First there is “Rise Up" a Click to watch video
project is spearheaded by one Another way that the music therapists at C.S. Mott’s use music to support
and calm seriously ill children is reflected here in this brief video depicting
of the music therapists at C.S. Mott’s as
how a music therapists engages a child about to undergo surgery.
a way to unite patients, families and staff
through the use of music. This powerful General Overview of Music Therapy At C.S. Mott’s Children’s Hospital
project demonstrates how music can create Click to watch video Again, so as to not clutter up our illustration here of the
connection and even comfort through amazing work being done at C.S. Mott’s by the music
therapy team here is an overview video of the music therapy program that
difficult times.
shows much better than our words could, the core of the music therapy
Another project that is key is “MottTube”, program, enjoy!
a playlist of therapeutic content supported
by the Child & Family Life Department, Virtual Platforms of Care
with the music therapy team contributing Finally, due to the recent drive for more and more telemedicine and the
significantly to its content. “MottTube” accompanying use of virtual platforms, the music therapy team has risen
is now available both externally through to the occasion by providing creative, compassionate and thoroughly
Michigan Medicine’s YouTube Channel as supportive care to C.S. Mott’s patients. And while the use of these virtual
platforms was a year three goal for “Sophie’s Place”, with the hard work
well as internally at the hospital through
of staff it looks like these very important virtual platforms that serve to
patient televisions. Content here is elevate the outreach capabilities of the music therapy program will be
appropriately centered around patient and able to be incorporated immediately upon the (imminent) opening of
family needs and is being provided for a “Sophie’s Place”.
variety of ages. Click to watch video
C.S. Mott’s “Sophie’s Place” when it officially opens very
Pre-COVID-19 the music therapy team soon will be the only “Sophie’s Place” among hospitals
consistently listed in the U.S. News Report List of the Top 10 Children’s
had a board certified music therapist and
Hospitals in The United States. And to get a further glimpse of what we
an educational specialist provide weekly all have to look forward to with its’ opening as well as a better idea of the
in-person group meeting of patients and history behind “Sophie’s Place” and who Sophie actually was, here is a
their families for age appropriate stories final video for you to take a quick look at, this time of the grand opening
and songs that typically served to reinforce of the first “Sophie’s Choice” in Salt Lake City, Utah.
socialization, normalization, counting, letter The hard work, dedication and passion for the music therapy program
at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital has continued a pace and even been
recognition, color recognition, etc. After
ramped up during our current COVID pandemic. And as the music
the pandemic hit, the team took this weekly therapy team prepares for the upcoming year and their work with patients
program and made it virtual, and in doing and their families, it has become clearer every day that the partnership
so has seen truly AMAZING results. Here is that we at The Kiwanis of Michigan Foundation have with C.S. Mott’s
a link that provides an example of what we and this amazing team of music therapy professionals continues to make
are talking about here: a difference in the lives of so many of Michigan’s hospitalized children
Click to watch video
and their families….let’s continue to have this said about our Michigan
Foundation and Michigan Kiwanians.
11 KiwanisMichigan February/March 2021club news || C.S. Motts Foundation
In an effort to support Special Olympics Michigan we
are seeking participation from local Kiwanis Clubs for
the Virtual Polar Plunge. By getting involved you are
helping to fund Special Olympics Michigan athletes
who compete in every county around the state. There
are many ways to support this fun event:
• Register online and create a fundraising page,
then share it with family & friends.
• Form a team. By your club virtually plunging
as a team you will create team bonding as
you work together to raise funds for Special
Olympics Michigan.
• Challenge others to take the Virtual Plunge:
family, friends, children, co-workers, other clubs
/ Kiwanians
• Donate an item for our Virtual Polar Plunge
auction that takes place online. We can arrange
for our volunteer committee members to pick
up any donated items.
o Awards will be given to top fundraisers:
Individual Kiwanians and clubs.
MICHIGAN LAW ENFORCEMENT
What kind of impact do our virtual events have?
Here are our social media analytics data from
2020:
• Virtual Summer Games: 173,818 engagements,
11,526 views, 32,411 views ceremony videos
• Virtual Fall Games: 213,000+ engagements;
13,000 views, 13,945 views ceremony videos
Special Olympics Michigan provides year-round
sports training and athletic competition for children
and adults with intellectual disabilities. Athletes
During the month of February 2021 – the Virtual Polar build physical fitness, develop self-confidence, and
Plunge for Special Olympics Michigan will take place prepare for participation in society. Special Olympics
all around the state. The Virtual Polar Plunge is a way Michigan is supported entirely by private funding
and without support of state or federal funds. The
to safely raise funds in a zany way for Special Olympics
generosity of our partners – like Michigan Kiwanis
Michigan as participants freeze their fur in a wide variety Clubs, enables the program to continue.
of creative and “socially distant” ways:
For more information or to register
~ Take a dip in a kiddie pool
~ Make a snow-angel in your bathing suit
CLICK
~ Outdoor squirt-gun fight For more information or questions contact:
~ Toss pails of cold water on each other Robbie Waclawski
~ Run through the sprinkler Special Gifts Manager
~ Spray each other with the garden hose Robbie.Waclawski@somi.org
~ Other – be creative….. 989-774-1427
12 KiwanisMichigan February/March 2021club news || Midland Kiwanis
Midland Kiwanis makes
and collaborate by individuals and organizations in our
community — bringing their talents to the project — make it
outdoor classroom a possible.
reality for children
“Translating the vision to reality and then seeing the
children using the Outdoor Classroom is the best reward
possible,” he added. “Every time our Midland Kiwanis Club
Made possible with help of Midland foundations, has reached out to individuals, the community and businesses,
businesses and individuals. Midland Kiwanis Club’s Young they have responded with enthusiasm. They bring their own
Children’s Committee, chaired by Earl Soules coordinated this creativity and skills to work with us to make great projects
project with the help of Midland foundations, local businesses happen for children.”
and individuals.
Through the efforts of Scott Lasky, Laskape Design and
Young children at Midland County Educational Service Landscaping, the paper design was brought to life. Hills were
Agency, Longview Early Childhood Center (LECC) received a created, as well as stone paths and log pathways. Laskape
new outdoor classroom area, further expanding the outside provided the overall shaping of the Outdoor Classroom.
play and learning space.
Matt LeVasseur, Sugar Construction brought their
Midland Kiwanis Club’s Young Children’s Committee, innovative experience from the Whiting Forest streambed
chaired by Earl Soules coordinated this project with the help of build to create one for the Outdoor Classroom at Longview.
Midland foundations, local businesses and individuals. They built the concrete streambed for the kayak water feature.
This new outdoor classroom space is unique in that it Sugar Construction also opened up a major portion of the area
includes the construction of a freestanding kayak at the top of for children with limited mobility (wheelchairs and walkers) with
a running stream, which is the key feature of the area. extensive sidewalks, connecting all areas of the playground.
There is also a stage with sunken tire seating, a tire Three Rivers Construction designed and built the kayak
climbing hill, a concrete crawl-slide tube, wooden bridge over stand to set the stage for the unique water feature. Three Rivers
the streambed, log pathways, and a new paved walkway that has experience and know how that has supported a number of
allows access to all the areas of the playground for all children. projects over the years.
“This project has surpassed all of my expectations and All three of our local contractors donated both labor and
seeing children using it as we envisioned, is beyond words! For materials to make the project possible and helped bring it to
me, the pictures that have been taken so far say it all,” said fruition.
Kimberly Clark, director of Early Childhood and Family Services
LECC. A large concrete crawl tube was donated by Northern
Concrete Pipe of Bay City. To make it safe for the children, the
The LECC Outdoor Classroom/Playground space was
interior was ground smooth and sealed by Sugar Construction.
designed by Thad Hallberg from Hallberg Design Studio. He
In addition, Midland Tire donated over 60 used tires for the tire
has been involved in several outdoor projects at Longview as
hills, walkways, fall zones and stage seats.
well as many community projects.
The Midland Area Community Foundation facilitated “The collaboration of this community never fails to amaze
me,” Clark said. “The longstanding partnership between the
funding. Supporting this project were the Howard & Polly
Midland Kiwanis Club’s Young Children Committee and the
Fenn Fund, Midland Kiwanis Foundation, and the Kellogg
Youth Fund/Midland County Youth Action Council. Generous (Midland County Educational Service Agency) has turned
individuals also made substantial donations to the project. another dream into a reality. Once again, our youngest learners
at Longview Early Childhood Center are the beneficiaries of
“When you first imagine a project like this for children and a new unique outdoor play space that can be accessed by all
the idea takes hold, it seems like such a stretch,” observed children (no matter what their abilities are).”
Midland Kiwanis Earl Soules. “But the willingness to engage
13 KiwanisMichigan February/March 2021club news || story time to go
AN ANSWER TO THE PANDEMIC FOR YCPO
“Storytime to go”
Under the urging of Michigan’s Kiwanis Governor Fran Babbage for clubs to find
new Yong Children Priority One programs, the Garden City club has come up with a
program that fits the goals of YCPO. The beauty of the program is that it’s a stay at
home project that assists parents in starting a child’s education at a very early age.
Creating this program was accomplished by the Garden City Kiwanis club partnering
with the Garden City library, sharing ideas and naming the program "Storytime To Go,"
which is appropriate for what is going on in today’s world.
Storytime To Go kits contain five theme books as well as instructions and
supplements to encourage users to get all they can out of the kit. Storytime exposes
children as young as new-born to reading, rhyming, singing and talking while teaching
a caregiver helpful tricks to continue the child’s literacy growth. The kits target ages 0-5,
focusing on the five major tiers of early literacy: read, talk, learn, sing and play. These
kits can be checked out for three weeks at a time, will be sanitized upon return and held
for a quarantine time between each distribution. Another advantage of the program is
that its use can be extended using friends, families and babysitters after the pandemic
ends.
Yours in Kiwanis service and Fellowship,
Thomas J. Jankowski-Co-Chair Garden City Kiwanis YCPO
thomjank@yahoo.com 734-748-2180
14 KiwanisMichigan February/March 2021club news || Kiwanis Club of Brighton & Livingston Salvation Army
Kiwanians ringing bell Mark Shay, Dennis Dimoff, Terri Pawlowski-Shay (Club President) and Marcy Jensen-Waller at Green Oaks JC Penney’s
December 5th will mark the 60th year the members of the
Brighton Kiwanis Club has rang the Bell for the Salvation Army
according to Michael Eaton, Brighton Kiwanis Bell Ringing
Chair. Kiwanians started ringing the bell in Downtown Brighton
the first Saturday of December in 1951 and has continued the
tradition since then. Locations have changed during the years
from Downtown Brighton, Brighton State Bank, Brighton Mall,
Meijer’s to now the Penney’s at Green Oaks.
The weather ranged from zero to 55 degrees. One bell
ringing day it was 10 degrees and 7 inches of snow fell during
bell ringing.
Some of the Kiwanis members are snowbirds in Florida
and ring the bell the same day but in warmer and sunny
condition.
April Dertian of the Salvation Army mentioned that the
Kiwanis club members have volunteered over 1000 hours of
bell ringing and has raised more than $75,000 on the first
Saturday of December. Many years their kettle receives the
largest daily donation for the season.
The Brighton Kiwanis with the Brighton Aktion Club, and
the Hilton Cub Scouts rang at Green Oaks Village Place,
JC Penney’s.
15 KiwanisMichigan February/March 2021club news || educational opportunities
DISTRICT EDUCATION
The Michigan District of Kiwanis is pleased to announce
several educational opportunities for our Kiwanis family
members and friends.
EQUITY EXCELLENCE CERTIFICATE PROGRAM - the Equity
Excellence Certificate Program will provide knowledge and skills
building opportunities in equity principles to improve equity and
inclusive excellence. Attending this program will lead to a certificate of
completion. Registration is just $100 per Kiwanian and $200 for non-
Kiwanians. The 8-session program starts Wednesday, February 3. The
program is being held from 11:30am - 1pm EST.
SIGN UP HERE
KIWANIS CAFE is held the 3rd Saturday of each month and will follow
on Kiwanis topics to help you and your club. Upcoming topics for
February and March are:
FEBRUARY 20- Ways to connect in your community and How to do a
club and community assessment
MARCH 20- Meaningful Service and Children are our Future
REGISTER HERE
KIWANIS, LET'S TALK started on Thursday, January 21 at 8pm EST.
After a very successful 2020 series, Kiwanis, Let's Talk is back with an
amazing lineup of speakers!
REGISTER HERE
February 4 Reading is Fundamental and Kiwanis
February 11 Thermostat Culture: Setting temperature for 2021
February 18 Finding your Why
February 25 Injuries are no Accident: A look at the CNH Pediatric
Trauma Program
March 4 Events in the Virtual World
March 11 Embracing Imperfections: Suicide Awareness and
Prevention
March 18- Kiwanis Amplify Program
March 25- Building the Blueprint for Future Generations Kiwanis
International
NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION
Michigan
First Saturday of every month at 9:00 am and 10:00 am Kiwanis is a global organization of
volunteers dedicated to improving the world
one child and one community at a time.
REGISTER HERE
Click to view the Michigan District
of Kiwanis website
16 KiwanisMichigan February/March 2021club news || 2020 Distinguished Service Award
DUNDEE
The Kiwanis Club of Dundee recently bestowed its 2020 Distinguished Service
Award to member Eddie Manuszak. Exemplifying the Kiwanis mission of “Serving
MEMBER
Children of the World,” Mr. Manuszak, superintendent of Dundee Schools, was
recognized for “going above and beyond” his educational responsibilities in
community service.
RECEIVES
With the myriad of challenges this past year, Mr. Manuszak has been diligent in
keeping the public informed, utilizing newsletters, online video services, and virtual
meetings. Each has been successful in providing immediate and accurate resources.
AWARD
Working with students, teachers, staff, administrators, parents and community
members, Mr. Manuszak created a task force to update and refine school safety
procedures. In addition, he is known for his community “meet and greet” called
IN 2020
“Sip with the Sup” where he invited local resident to visit, share thoughts and ask
questions. He was instrumental in developing a weekly meal program that extended
through the summer and over 111,000 meals were distributed to local families.
Mr. Manuszak was also recognized with working with the Dundee Area Business
Association and the Dundee Area Senior Center where, along with local sponsorship,
he produced the annual Senior Sing and Swing, a free event that included dinner and
entertainment by the Dundee choir and jazz band.
Richard Greer, the Dundee Club President stated, “Our Kiwanis Club is grateful
for Mr. Manuszak’s leadership, drive, and commitment. With his encouragement,
others have followed suit to demonstrate optimism amidst our 2020 challenges.
He truly exceeded our expectations for his servant-led leadership to our Dundee
community”.
17 KiwanisMichigan February/March 2021club news || Detroit #1
WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS
MAKES IMPACT IN DETROIT DURING COVID-19
Reprinted with permission from Wayne State magazine, Fall/Winter 2020.
18 KiwanisMichigan February/March 2021CHANGE YOUR 2020-21 DIRECTORY
(Also make appropriate Secretary changes on pages 17-22)
2020-21 Officer Changes DIVISION 5
(In addition to Robert Ptaszynski)
WARREN K04791 (1957) Paul J. Elsey (Louisa),
Pres: Walter Bieber, 22019 Crestwood, Woodhaven, MI 48183
1414 Alameda Blvd, Troy Mi 48085-6741 Club: Woodhaven
Phone: (586) 246-1977 Phone: (734) 692-2018
Email: wbieber@hotmail.com Cell: (734) 771-0552
Email: pelsey@comcast.net
ST. IGNACE K03755 (1951)
Pres: Austin Kimberling,
Council of Past Governors
2009-10: Joan C. Van Arsdalen,
W101 Densmore Dr. St. Ignace, 49781-9620
1791 Steamburg Rd., Hillsdale, 49242-2087
Phone: (906) 430-4930 Club: Hillsdale
Email: akimberling@gmail.com Phone: (517) 437-2962
Cell: (517) 320-0723
MONROE K02007 (1934) Email: billjoan52@comcast.net
Sec: Michael Weipert,
4610 W. Dunbar Rd.., Monroe, 48161-9118 District Committees
Phone: (734) 243-9022 BUILDERS CLUB ADMINISTRATOR
Email: weipert@charter.net Sue Devon
Phone: 517-331-6256
DOWNRIVER WEST K18513 (2013) Email: susancdevon@gmail.com
Pres: Al Cotto,
22753 Doncaster Ave., Brownstown, 48193-8217 YOUTH PROTECTION MANAGER
Phone: (734) 285-4696 Jackie Wickham (Wesley),
Email: bigpapi3@sbcglobal.net 2541 Union St. Osseo, 49266-9596
Club: Hillsdale
Phone: (517) 523-2146
ONSTED K03764 (1951) Email: jlynnwickham@gmail.com
Sec: Rick Richardson,
313 Dewey Lake Beach, Brooklyn, 49230-9039
Phone: (517) 605-7260 PROGRAMS
Email: rickrichardson69@comcast.net Fellowship of Christian Athletes –
Matt Diener,
Phone: (440) 465-3584,
TRI CITIES, GD. HAVEN-SPRING LAKE K17086 (2004) Email: mdiener@fca.org
Sec: Jessica Christopher, Website: www.michiganfca.org
714 Columbus Ave., Grand Haven, 49417-1549
Phone: (616) 414-9111
Email: jessica@momentumcentergh.org
INFO FOR ADDITIONAL INDIVIDUALS
2020-21 Lt. Governor - DIVISION 2
Renea Callery (Tom Munro)
4609 Rosalie St., Dearborn, MI 48126-4109
Club: Dearborn
Cell: (313) 505-0331
Email: reneaewi@gmail.com
19 KiwanisMichigan February/March 2021In Memoriam || help your club
3 Exciting Videos to Help your Club
Grab some popcorn and a refreshing beverage as you sit back, relax and enjoy
these lively, informative sessions to help make your club more relevant, raise funds,
attract members, and have fun! All of them are on the Michigan District of Kiwanis
YouTube channel.
2020-21
GOVERNOR'S
Building Blocks for
Virtual Club Success
M EMBERSHI P TR O PH Y
Click to watch video
Cheboygan ............................................. +13
How to do a Virtual Lac Ste. Claire.......................................... +12
Fundraiser
Garden City............................................... +8
Detroit #1.................................................. +7
Click to watch video Canton....................................................... +6
Petoskey ................................................... +6
Delta Township .......................................... +5
Tri Cities ..................................................... +5
Putting the “Fun” back
in Fundraising Net gain is from 10-1-20 thru 12-31-20
and includes clubs only with at least a net
gain of +5 based on official membership
PRESS
Click to watch video numbers supplied by Kiwanis International.
as we go to
In Memoriam
KENNETH K. WYCKOFF ROBERT L. WASKOVIAK SR. Active Clubs............................................. 142
Traverse City Saginaw District Beginning Membership ............ ..3773
+74
SHIRLEY ANN GRIEVE DR. OWEN R. DUEWEKE Reporting Members January 7, 2021….. 3847
Mason Golden K Kalamazoo Sunrise
JAMES H. ULLRICH
Mount Clemens
MICHAEL P. MYERS
Rogers City
Net Gain members
SLP MEMBERS
WARREN J. MAYER DELFIN DIVINA
Chelsea Metropolitan North-Troy
LARRY A. ACKERSON EUGENE DEUEL
Mason Onsted
CLUBS PAID MEMBERS
K-Kids 10
CORRECTION: IN THE DEC/JAN BUILDER, Builders Club 29
Robert Foote, Coldwater was inadvertently listed. Key Club 113 1022
Robert is still with us.
Circle K 10 160
Aktion Club 23 119
20 KiwanisMichigan February/March 2021You can also read
