12/18/07

T'was the week before Christmas when all thru the club…

 

On ticket we have S. Hearn, who wanders as the beginning of the meeting slowly starts up.  There are not too many around until… around 12:35p, the men in black from upstairs trickle in and walk around shaking hands. 

 

President Khong starts the meeting of the greatest club in Berkeley. Our substitute song leader B. Price tries as best he can tame the wild tones with the help of  F. Bliss assists with the piano.    

 

 

The CKIers were nestled all snug in their desks, while visions of A plus danced in their heads;

 

CKIers seem to have disappeared behind piles of finals and papers.  But with us we have Distinguished Lt. Gov, V. Carpenter and immediate-past L. Gov F. Bliss. 

 

 

Sunshine report: 

C. Finch, from rehab is back home and sends greets and apologies. No worries!  We are all wishing you well!

 B. Barnwall who got in a fight with a street person and sustained several fractures around the eye socket.  Give him a call to wish him well. 

            Additionally, Tammy has fractured her leg and has finally gotten back into the office.  Give her a call too to see how she is. 

Virginia reports on her blood pressure rising and silent violins play all around. 

 

 

Foundation News:  Make donations, get tax write-offs.  Very much appreciated.

 

Virginia has 20 more 15 dollar Sees Gift Certificates for only 13 dollars each.

 

No meeting the next two weeks.  The Thursday after new years  (3^rd of January) will be a Round Table, meeting at pyramid brewery at noon on Gilman and 8^th. 

 

Annual "Pass the Hat" event is today.  We contributed for thanks to our wait staff each week.

 

Virginia updates us on the Holiday Auction.  She praises Denise on her hard work and success this year while she was on vacation.

 

Christmas Caroling at Berkeley Pines Care center on Saturday December 22, 2007.  The address is: 2223 Ashby Avenue Berkeley, CA 94705.  We will be meeting at 11:45am in the front.  I'll have Caroling books, Cocoa and cookies for after.  Additional goodies and musical instruments welcome!  Any questions OR IF YOU NEED A RIDE email me back here or call me at 831-229-0337

 

Salvation Army has volunteering opportunities.  Contact Suzanne.Mondell@usw.salvationarmy.org for more information on how to get involved with donation distributions.

 

Virginia:  Holiday Cards are done and will be delivered to the hospital with toys from ACE hardware

 

 

Interclub report:  Oakland Club has interclub.  Berkeley Kiwanis must support other Kiwanis clubs' events!  San Leandro has a crab feed on Jan 12^th.  Alameda has a chili cook off (Jan 26).  Talk to Bill for more. 

 

Birthdays?  A bunch of them. Ask Phuoc

 

:) Happies and Sads :(

 

Bill C. Virginia finally went to a doctor

Virginia adds was told that doctor has no idea and has to go to dermatologist, but cannot sleep due to terrible itchies. 

 

Denise:  Happy that it's the holidays and gets to have family over

 

Evie:  Happy for the rain cause plants are looking sad. 

 

Virginia:  Happy to have family going away (to Idaho) to enjoy a quiet house.  Now son has to go to the doctor so must babysit

 

(Notice everyone is HAPPY!)

 

Guest Speaker:

Patrick to entertain and Wow us:

            The Founder and artistic director to the Shotgun players.  Part of Berkeley since the early-90s.  Now are at the Ashby stage.  Patrick talks about fundraising, as they are most from donations.  Currently running is Shaker Chair. http://www.shotgunplayers.org/shakerchair.htm

  Shakers known for chair hanging and their service to the community.  After praise, talked about his grandparents' involvement in Kiwanis, perhaps time to continue the family tradition? 

 

            An east coast boy starts up this place.  Lots of moving around with free shows but has finally moved down and bought a theatre.  How to integrate into community?  Mural was one idea, and another is to remove carbon footprint (and save some money) by going solar.   Will be the first 100% solar theater. 

 

            Patrick was lively and funny and extremely personable.  The theater is on Ashby and is extremely Bartable, in fact, he instructs us to park at BART. 

 

First week of every show is whatever you can pay!  (38 and under get special discount!)

 

Also pay what you can under 25$  and half price on goldstar any night

 

"Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night."

 

 

 

12/11/07

Twelve drummers drumming

Fa-la-la-la-LAAAAA…

It was a brisk and windy day, snow flurries swirling everywhere (or was that on Monday Night Football?)…yes, a perfect setting for "chestnuts on the fire" (only things missing were the chestnuts and the fire) …..But it didn't keep many people from coming out and enjoying a perfect setting for the

Berkeley Kiwanis Club's always festive annual Holiday Auction!

 

Eleven pipers piping

To start with, the City Club did it right and looked beautiful. Then the Kiwanis team put another layer on top of it, with its own touch. The tables were filled with offerings too great to meet the eye. Exotic cookbooks, strange and rare wines, unusual

 

 

 

candies and concoctions, hard-to-find antiquities and inequities, and a mind-boggling array of treasures, large and small, old and new,  unique and ordinary, hot and cold, tall and short.

Ten lords a-leaping

Young Prez P. Khong was poised to kick off the event in fine form and awaited the City Club's finest to set up the gourmet buffet. Oswaldo and troups showed up shortly. Meanwhile, Sec'y J. Rosano barked orders all around (ignored by most as usual) and made seemingly important announcements over the mike. (the other 8 lords were standing by)

Nine ladies dancing

Yes, they were dancing and prancing -- Chair V. Carpenter, Asst Chair D. Haughin, Honorary Member S. Silveira, Past LtGov R. Bliss, Neophyte Treasurer S. Hearn and others were scurrying around, busy as elves, hanging stockings, gay apparel, and sugar plums all over the place (not to mention boughs of holly figgy pudding, and frankincense, incense and nonsense).

Eight maids a-milking

As said, the tables were filled with great treasures, many of which were hand crafted by the amazing L. Hannawalt (rumors have it that hubby B. Hannawalt actually chipped in and handsomely at that), jams, preserves, and other creations by V. Carpenter, S. Silveira, R. Bliss, and others, all of which drew handsome offers.

 

 

 

Seven swans a-swimming

The silent auction took off with much anticipation and intense bidding. To the rescue came the famous UCB Circle K (there were at least 7)  having been poised to run and run, and did more than keep up with the fast-paced auction, and handled the check-out table for fast final payment and processing, when we finally filed out, drained of energy but filled with satisfaction.

Six geese a-laying

We had some very generous donors, ranging from the Berkeley City Club, Olympic Circle Sailing Club, Tilden Park Golf Course, Oakland Raiders, SF Giants, Cal Bears, Northside Travel, Berkeley Ace Hardware, Rist. Venezia, H's Lordships. We also had table sponsors Berkeley Ace Hardware, Immediate Past President J. Egeberg, and upstanding Kiwanian J. Piercy (aka the "Christmas Grumpy"), and table centerpieces by the always-crafty R. Bliss.

Five golden rings

There were some very special guests today. First, we had esteemed representatives from our favorite sister clubs, not to mention likes of Oakland, Alameda, Albany-El Cerrito, San Leandro,  and Hayward-Castro Valley. And of course, there were very special guests and spouses, especially at today's sponsor tables. BUT LAST AND NOT LEAST, we had some very special B. K.'ers that we don't see often, of the likes of R. Frisbie, L. Iodice, J. Asher (of course, the latter doesn't have nearly the excuse….)

Four calling birds

Well, it seemed like there were four, but was it really two – of the best barkers in the world. Both S. Silveira and J. Rosano traded volleys and vied to finish this auction on time (thereby outdoing our sister club in Oakland last week). Well, needless to say, our venerable auctioneers met and exceeded this amazing challenge, even closing a few minutes ahead of time.

 

 

 

Three French hens

As the Silent Auction tables were winding down, with a fervent frenzy, the Live Auction got off with much anticipation and ado. There were so many grand prizes, it's impossible to record here. Top prizes included 3 gourmet and exotic dinners hosted by generous Kiwanians, such as an oversized barbeque extravaganza on the Carpenter's deck (won by ???), an Italian gourmet bash at Villa Leonardo  (won by J. Piercy), and the perennial favorite JR's Cioppino Feast (won by D. Leonard).

Two turtle doves

A night's lodging and dinner at the City Club (won by ???), and the Jeff Tedford Football (meaning next season will be what this season was supposed to be), won by F. Bliss.

And a partridge in a pear tree!

Event chair (the amazing) V. Carpenter announced, just before going to print, that according to preliminary results, this event has just set an unforeseen record of proceeds exceeding $7,000! (all of course for SERVICE!) Yes, although many accolades go to many others, as recorded above, it is hereby proclaimed that

Virginia Carpenter is our special partridge for 2007!

 

12/4/07

Holiday Auction is next week!  Do you have your lunch tickets yet?  Get them from Denise at her business on San Pablo Avenue for $15 before you show up at the door next week.  It will cost you and your "friends", neighbors and relatives $20 at the door.  You are bringing "friends", neighbors and relatives, aren't you??  You do have friends, don't you??  And what about your contributions to the silent and live auctions?  If you haven't turned them in yet, Denise would appreciate them delivered to her by Friday so that she can reduce the confusion of identifying and pricing everything just before the auction.  AND BY ALL MEANS, COME PARTICIPATE IN YOUR AUCTION.  

Have you noticed that the volunteer editors have been using slightly different formats for the Kollegiate?  Probably not: we aren't a very "noticing" crowd.  This format has been touted as better for e-mail readers (don't have to scroll up and down to read the columns) whereas the double column format is better for printed version readers (for reasons unknown to me, except "tradition").  So, let's see if you read this "Most Unnecessary Publication on The West Coast".  Do you want single or double columns of text?  e-mail Chair Jeff ( jegeberg@essic.net), send him a note at home, or call him at home. Use your Roster to get his address or phone.  

Since Christmas and New Year's Day fall on Tuesdays, there will be only one more meeting in December (not counting Auction).  So, you better plan on attending that meeting (Dec 18) since there has been no mention of where or when we will have our last meeting of 2007 or our 1 ^st meeting of 2008. 

When I showed up today, there was no one at the ticket table, but soon Sandy showed up and Charlie could finally get going on his lunch.  Khing Khong was a bit tardy, not clanging his bell until 12:35, but that was OK since we didn't have a guest speaker today.  Hizzoner asked for a "Ho Ho Ho" from everyone, but it was pretty subdued.  Pretty obvious that most of us have not gotten into the Christmas shopping mode as yet.  (Or, maybe we have!)  Since Borden wasn't present we did a pretty good job of GBA under the able hand-waving of Bob Rice and Roberta, our Social Engineer, was prepared with a seasonal invocation.   

Continuing with lightning speed Pres Phouc offered the opportunity for friendly insurance for those who weren't sure they had done a thorough job of hand-shaking.  After Sandy and Duane dutifully ponyed up, Phouc allowed as he hadn't appointed a Secret Greeter, but appreciated the honesty and generosity of those two stalwarts.  
 

Circle K Joe was with us for the whole meeting and gave us a rundown of this last week or so of concentrated Circle K activities.  Of course a meeting tonight (Tuesday) in Wheeler Hall, but by the time you read this it is too late to take any action.  He also announced that today was the last chance to make a reservation for their Fall Dinner to be held at Clark Kerr Campus on Friday (I think).  But, if you e-mail him ( jh_Lee@Berkeley.edu) Wednesday he may be able to sneak you in and tell you just exactly what time and date.  Circle K LtGuv Gail is having her Division Council Meeting in Santa Rosa, including a lunch before and the First Annual Circle K Quiz Bowl after.  Again, Joe can fill you in on details like date, time, and location.  This Sunday (Dec 9) they will be doing holiday baking at the Bliss residence, starting at 4:30 and will also be working on pediatric dolls.  

John reminisced about the "early" years when our Club started giving academic scholarships and noted that Jack Bailey was one of the first selectees and has told John that winning that scholarship convinced him to go to UCB and follow his "dream" of being in music.  Jack is now the music director of Voices of Musica Sacra which is presenting a caroling program on Dec 8 and 9.  Details at www.vmschorus.org , or call 925-944-5239. 

Debra is thinking of getting some of us together with Circle K and friends to do some caroling.  Considering how we "murder" GBA most Tuesdays, it was nice of her to invite us and she actually got a few hands raised.  Details will follow, probably by e-mail or phone.  

It was noted that our Secretary celebrated a birthday (un-numbered) last Friday.  It was also noted by JP that it was great that Jack was back to be the Secretary.  Jeff chimed in with a "wait a minute", wondering how it was that for a short trip to the mid-west Jack was able to miss two meetings, one Board meeting, and countless committee meetings.  Jack "Oh, Well'd" and put in a sizeable contribution in honor.  

Fruit Bob was even happier than usual.  He flashed a very fancy certificate issued by the SF Board of Supervisors in recognition of Bob's important volunteer involvement in his neighborhood in that fair City.  Wonder of Bob furnishes fresh fruit to the meeting attendees?  

Sandy reminded us that she is looking for donations of sox for the homeless and needy.  In response to Jeff's suggestion that most of the folks in the room had a pair, it was noted that the adjective "clean" needed to be added to explain the noun "sox".  They do not have to be new, but probably it would be in poor taste to bring in sox with holes, repaired or not.  She's willing to collect them at any meeting.  

The Paradis's have an anniversary coming up on 17 December, but probably are already celebrating and weren't here for an "alert", and won't get recognized next week at the Auction.  Tammy is supposed to edit this scandal sheet on the 18 ^th, but the odds are poor.  We shall see. 

We finally got to our program which was the annual effort (for us) to put stickers on cards to go to Oakland Children's hospital patients during the holiday season.  That's a challenge for our members, but with lots of prompting by Roberta, and music by Frank, we did it.                        Jp 

DON'T FORGET THE AUCTION 

11/2707

Just one minute late… Pres. Khing Khong welcomed all to the ninth meeting of his term.  Gorgeous day.. weather truly delightful. We were greeted at the ticket table by E. Goodman, and B. Rice led us in song.  Dr. Coe gave a short invocation asking for blessings on our friendships and our food!  B Lowman looked great with the poker table in her trusting hands, and the SG was none other than J. Piercy.   

In our midst we found 4 Circle Kers from the great UCB.  Joe, Jenny, Gail and VJ came off campus to visit.  Jenny told us all that's going on: This Saturday the Oakland Holiday parade, Dec. 4^th last meeting of the semester, Dec. 7^th Fall Banquet at Clark Kerr 6-9pm $26, Dec. 9^th 4pm at the Blisses for holiday baking, card/fun pad project to deliver to Children's Hospital and maybe pediatric dolls if time.  The Circle Kers love our company- and we love theirs!!! 

D. Wong noted that we have 1 new member and 1 potential new member in the works.  Meetings will be held at Brennans once a month- fisrt Tuesday of the month- 8:pm to talk about membership, create goals and think/talk about weekly service projects.  Great new beginning!!  She also commented on the Cragmont Readathon tomorrow.  Those who signed up are committed.. if you wanted in, she would see what she could do!!   

Interclub chair B. Carpenter announced no interclub this past week; however four of us will head over to Alameda tomorrow for their meeting.  We are still advertising our upcoming Holiday Auction on Dec. 11^th. 
 
 
 

C. Fitch is looking fit- and has a great appetite.  He was spotted sitting among friends at one of the front tables.  Good to see you, Charlie!! 

S. Hearn announced that YEH is in need of new socks for adults 18-25 for the upcoming cold season.  We participated last year- let's all bring in pairs of socks for this group.  

Some folks admitted to birthdays past and upcoming.  D. Haughin a couple of weeks ago- and B. Carpenter this coming Sunday and he put in $71 for all those wonderful years.  He and VC will be on the high seas on that day.  Jenny announced that Cal Nev Ha Circle K is celebrating 50 young years. 

JJJJJLLLLL$$$$$$$$$$$$$$     

They were numerous and some were large!!  J. Piercy told a long story about his grandson and an accident.  He is doing fine but no skiing for 6 weeks.  D. Wong won a tennis match and is in the playoffs this weekend I think it is.  Pres. Khing Khong 4 J$$ for the four turkeys he partook of this past holiday season.  B. Barnwell compared the AllState/Aflack to today's State Farm/Geiko comments.  You had to be here.  B. Fay gave $$ for something about Margie's niece marrying a Stanford grad (or fan??).  VC gave a $ for a great Friday After Thanksgiving Day sale at the local ACE.  D. Haughin so happy about the 49ers and for all the auction stuff coming in.  F. Bliss gave $$ for two stuffed chickens- and announced that Pres. Khing Khong has been employed by him for 5 years now.  J. Egeberg gave a L for Frank!!!  J. gave a $ for NO turkey on Thanksgiving.  R. Bliss mentioned the Kiwanis magazine and an article about a noon club meeting also at dinner to include more members….  Good idea.     
 
 

Nobody introduced our speaker, none other than Tammy Paradis, present head of the scholarship committee for the Berkeley Kiwanis Club.   She works closely with the Berkeley Foundation; in fact those folks are all members of the scholarship committee.   This year they'll be giving away around $45,000 in scholarships.  They also want to work on a music scholarship this time.  F. Bliss will be in charge of this.  He talked about in the past BK used to do live auditions as a part of the selection process.  TP mentioned that next year the committee will work on going to a paperless system.  And they are also going to work on creating scholarships for young people going on the 2 year community colleges or trade schools.  E. Goodman asked if Oakland Tech will be included in the scholarship selection as we now support their Key Club.  The scholarship committee will be discussing this suggestion. 

Thanks, Tammy, for the information!!  We look forward to the announcements of winners and the scholarship luncheon in May.     

By the way:  Cazadero work day will be April 19^th,  Gualala the weekend after that..  SAVE the dates! 

Have a nice week!!  See you Dec. 4^th for the project workshop of coloring books and cards for Children's Hospital.  We get service hours for this, I think…   

      Editor:  vc

11/20/2007

 

Yummy food awaited those of us that started our Thanksgiving festivities early with our Kiwanis colleagues—stuffed chicken and mac and cheese and chocolate cake.  PrezPhuoc had us all gobbling like turkeys to get the meeting started on the right note….   

VC led us in an energetic GBA, accompanied by Immediate Past Lt Gov Frank on his Fine Fiddle.  Between the two of them, we stayed in tune and sounded wonderful!  RevBill led the invocation, reminding us to be thankful for all the blessings we have.  Duane gleefully collected the ticket money.  Insurance apprentice PrezPhuoc sold a number of insurance policies; Frank, Sandy, VC, and Evie were trembling with fear that they had ignored one of the key rules and regs of the meeting.  And a good thing they had insurance; all had missed the Special Greeter.  George was the Fine Master. 

Jan Robitcher and Lorella were our guests. 

Gail and Keiko (and a bit late Vijay) joined us, despite the Thanksgiving holidays (thank you for being with us!).  Gail thanked the Carpenters for the special K Family Thanksgiving feast, last weekend.  She also reminded us of their meeting next Tuesday, as well as the Installation dinner December 7 (6-9) at Clark Kerr Garden Room (contact Gail if you are attending). 

VC reminded us of the up-coming KIWANIS CLUB OF BERKELEY AUCTION.  All is ready (although more donations would be appreciated).  And if you would bring those treasures to the meeting next week, that would also be 
 
 
 

appreciated.  Rumor has it that there will be a football at the auction, signed by CAL's Coach Tedford (expect spirited bidding on that one). 

VC also has SEE'S CANDY CERTIFICATES for purchase.  You'll save $$ and the club will make $$; a win-win for all. 

Early Tuesday morning, PrezPhuoc and a Kiwanis contingent (including Circle K'ers) joined the Police Department in packing SPECIAL TURKEY BASKETS; over 400 boxes were completed.  

Our next interclub (after a visit to the  Alameda Kiwanis next Wednesday, note date change) will be the Oakland Auction December 3 (Park Plaza, 150 Hegenberger Rd). 

Roberta is planning her annual cooking/baking party prior to the Auction; details to follow. 

We wanted to sing Happy Birthday to Denise, but Denise wisely had taken the week off, celebrating her birthday far away from us. 

PrezPhuoc requested a "holiday" travel update:

VC and BC are off on an 8 day Caribbean Cruise to celebrate BC's birthday, Duane is heading to Miami, and Tamara is off to the East Coast to check on her kids and celebrate Christmas with them in the mountains of CT.  Jack is already somewhere celebrating in the Midwest. 

PrezPhuoc led a lively pre-auction Auction.  Evie, for $20, won the treasured Gobbling Turkey (was that Turkey in the Straw coming from that critter?).  OK, for those of you there, truth in print requires me to say that "lively" is a bit of an exaggeration…. 
 
 
 
 

Lots of happy and sad and confused $$$.

--JohnP sad that the True Secretary was on a trip

--PrezPhuoc happy for the scrumptious Traditional Thanksgiving K family dinner at the Carpenters, happy for all the pre-Thanksgiving, Thanksgiving dinners he has had so far

--RevBill happy for Jan's attendance, happy 3 kids are coming home for Thanksgiving

--Bettye happy to see PreviousLtGovFrank at the West Berkeley Senior Center Party, happy her niece has passed the bar

--Deborah happy for a guitar session, happy 'cuz "her kids" told her she was just the best teacher they've ever had

--Tamara feeling consternation for joining Toastmasters, feeling nervous for her 3^rd speech coming up

--PreviousLtGovFrank sad for his performance in line dancing at the above mentioned Senior Center celebration

--VC happy for the chance to tease Deborah about her hot date

--Evie wishing Tamara good luck at Toastmasters

--RevBill happy a good friend was the speaker today

--George happy for the experience of working with Meals on Wheels while in college

--VC happy her grandson adores George (but she is afraid that grandson thinks Our George is related to Curious George…). 

Bettye introduced Today's Speaker, Faye Combs (Faye also is Bettye's supervisor).  Fay was a riveting speaker, with an opening that revealed the many obstacles she has overcome in her life.  Although she was  illiterate through a good portion of her life, she is now literate and secretary of the National Board for Adult Literacy! 

She has been the Director of Meals on Wheels in Berkeley, for 17 years.  There are 8 Meals on Wheels in Alameda County.  Berkeley Meals started in 1977.  Nutritious meals are delivered to needy seniors between 10 and 2.  Project Open Hands is the core behind the program, preparing the meals and delivering them to the Berkley Meals on Wheels who then delivers them to the needy.  She explained in details the many steps and equipment used to keep the food safe. 
 
 
 
 

As part of this program, Faye also worked with Volunteers of America this weekend in preparing 360 Thanksgiving baskets! 

To apply for Meals on Wheels, you must

--Be 60 years or older

--Be homebound

--Be unable to prepare a balanced meal

--Have a safe pathway to the delivery door

--Be able to safely store and reheat meals

--Participate in 2 brief quarterly phone interviews and 2 in-home assessments annually.

Unfortunately, there are 70 people currently on the Waiting List for Meals on Wheels!  Meals on Wheels relies heavily on private donations.  A mere $20, for example, will take 3 people off the Waiting List. 

For those needed donation checks, Meals on Wheels is located:  1901 Hearst Street, Berkeley 94709. 

Meals on Wheels also needs volunteers willing to donate time for a variety of needs. 

Thank you, Faye, for an inspiring talk.  And thank you for all the good you do in coordinating this special and needed program. 

In closing, PrezPhuoc asked Keiko to lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance. 
 
 

REMEMBER 

VC has See's Candy Certificates 

HOLIDAY AUCTION December 3 
 

                              

      (tjp)

11/13/07

'Tis the Season: Autumn is Here 

The Clue: Yes, leaves falling everywhere… stories of Old Blue stalwarts sitting (to no avail) in the steady rain last weekend in Memorial Stadium at Strawberry Canyon … plans for turkey give-aways to the needy…honoring all of us Veterans sitting in the Peanut Gallery…much anticipation for upcoming holiday events…an official visit by the Lieutenant Governor and his entourage…an autumn prelude virtuoso violin performance … and much more…(Whew, what else could you ask for? AND more on most of this later)

The Kickoff: Prez Phuoc started by announcing that the usually reliable Secretary was "not at his post."  Well, "so what" was the most oft' response.  Thankfully, a very competent team was on duty for the day so it didn't matter. There were E. Goodman and then S. Hearn at the door (trying to match the ticket sales to the money collected – an usual accomplishment for B.K.),  
 

There was the usual Bob & Bill Tandem doing the much-too-loud and very off-key vocal tribute but a very respectable thankful word.  "Yo' Geo" Maxe on the finebox rounded out this esteemed group without undo fanfare. Very rare indeed.

When Did Daylight Savings End Anyway?

Well, we changed some of our clocks for a week or so, and then the rest. So which were right? We never knew, but it didn't matter much because it didn't last very long. At least, for some of us, we showed up at events an hour early, rather than late. Meanwhile, we all got a week older.

Better Late Than Never

Regardless of what clock you were watching (that's not to say anyone was bored), the meeting started more or less on time. Wow, did we have guests today? To start with, it seems like we always have the sitting Lt Governor with us, and this time it's none other than our very own E. Levitch (A surprise visit? … More later). While he had the spotlight, he introduced his very own guest, known to all of us by now as Jessica (rumor as it that she has an application that she's thinking of filling out). While we were at it, we acknowledged other past LtGov's in the room (No, not very properly) – names of Bliss, Bliss, and Carpenter come to mind.

Speaking of Blissful (hint), was there a Secret Greeter today? Well, did we tell you about the violin prelude? And did you ever think that it's difficult to shake hands with a violin artist while he's playing. Need I say more? Insurance apprentice Khong sold a number of policies (but admitted they were not "All Risk")

When the __Come Marching In

It's fill-in-the-blanks time. Answer is the world-famous Circle K of UC Berkeley. CK Joe arrived breathlessly at the door and came forward to tell some stories (By the way, Joe tried his hardest to lose his keys, leaving them behind wherever he went). To start with, they just arrived back from the Masquerade Ball last weekend at UC San Diego, and they're still tired. Gail and Virginia walked in just in time to back up his story. After a quick recovery, he went on to announce upcoming events –

• This Fri: Bay Area Rescue Mission
• This Sat: Carnival at Playland in Berkeley
• Sunday: K Family Dinner (Thanksgiving style) at the Carpenters
• Fri Dec 7: Fall Banquet ($26) at the Clark Kerr Garden Room

Sign up for all of these events now!

We forgot there were some other guests today, very important guests, from our sister (and mother?) club from the great neighboring community of Oakland. Yes, they even had an interclub consisting of Russ, Stan & Art. We, of course, thought they came to buy all the tickets (door, raffle, and others) to the greatest holiday fest of all – at Berkeley Kiwanis Holiday Auction on Dec. 11 (more on that later) --- BUT NO! They came to push their own warm-up act on Mon, Dec 3. Some of us bought a bunch of tix and are trying to remember its NEW location:

Yes, the Oakland Holiday Auction is at the Park Plaza at 150 Hegenberger Road on Dec. 3 ($25)! 

World's Greatest 2007 Holiday Event

But the best of all is the Berkeley Kiwanis Holiday Auction on Tues, Dec. 11. And better yet, the price is only $15 (in advance, because it's $20 at the door). Buy your tickets now…and for the 50-50 drawing ($1,000 guaranteed).  There will be fantastic bid items, including hosted theme dinners and an autographed Cal football (yes, their interesting season will be over).  

Overtime

There were two successful Interclubs last week, at the Richmond club last Wed and at the DCM on Thur.

And then there were so many Happy/Sad dollars that it's impossible to record them all, including many for being so wet and then so dry for the Cal/USC football game, Russ from Oakland for attending a superior meeting today, and B. Fay for another tasteless joke.

A Sobering Thought

Then F. Bliss introduced our esteemed program for the day, current Lieutenant Governor Ed Levitch's official visit.

Ed told us his story of how he became a member of Kiwanis and what the ideals of the club mean to him. He noted that it started out as a business club and how much it has changed for the better. He indicated that he will be here for us and asked us to be here for him.

As far as a specific project for the year, he asked each member to come up with an idea and let him know.  He is promoting the idea of several clubs getting together (also with Circle K and Key Clubs) to work on projects. It was noted that One K Day is set for Sat, April 8, 2008.

As far as the state of Division 2, it is still hovering at 9 clubs and 250 members. IF it cannot maintain this level, it remains at risk. A new concept is being floated of alternative membership (no obligations for dues or lunch), but this hasn't gotten very far.

Thanks Ed!   
 

????? Challenge of the Week: Can the upcoming Holiday Auction outdo the previous event of the year--????

11/6/07

Yep, it IS November already.  Have YOU started your Christmas shopping yet!  (Me neither!)  Planning for your Holiday Auction is well underway.  Last week VC was flogging the "split-the-pot" drawing and today it was sheets of 8 lunch tickets that we need to sell to our friends, relations, neighbors, and anyone else we can get to come and spend money.  It would be nice if a majority of the net came from the public (and we want to include other Kiwanis Club members in that group). Do you remember that December 11 is the date!!  Next week that will be less than a month away.  Bring in those "treasures" that you want auctioned (silent or live) and take advantage of VC's offer to provide free transportation and storage. 

Khing Khong was right on the ball today; he tried to open the meeting on the dot of 12:30, but failed to ring the bell so was behind as soon as he started.  But, things got better – or at least what seemed better as things went along. 

Bettye had all the chores assigned although the ticket-seller was probably an unscheduled (but appreciated) Evie.  Bob, accompanied by Frank, led a spirited GBA (why does it always sound better in key when Borden is not present?); Grouchy gave his brief invocation; Bettye took over the fine box and away we went – well, sort of. 

Ed Levitch introduced his "gal Friday" from work and proceeded to announce that she will be applying for membership.  That was news to her!!  And I didn't know Ed paid his employees enough to afford this Club.  He did "take out papers", for her, though.  On a more positive note, he didn't seem to be favoring his aching back quite so much and reports that the best thing going for his back seems to acupuncture.   

Lt Guv Ed also encouraged everyone to attend his DCM (Division Council Meeting) this Thursday evening at 6 PM (that's 1800 hours for you National Guard folks) in the conference room at his office complex.  Enter from the Heinz St. side, not from 10^th Street.  He promises an upbeat and important meeting. 

Bill C. reported on 3 interclubs this past week.  Circle K (4 attendees), Richmond (4 attendees) and the Circle K Fall Training Conference (4 attendees).  Bill, VC, Evie, Gimpy, Frank, Roberta, Phuoc, Tony Ng (TONY NG!!!), and Jane were the attendees.  And Jane even made it to lunch today (Tony didn't!).  Jane reports that it was the biggest Fall Training Conference yet,  
 
 

and her last since she is already training her replacement on the District level position.  Will Jane miss the Circle K more that they will miss her??  It might be a toss-up. 

Pres. Phuoc announced 4 birthday celebrants for November, but only Denise was present, so although we supposedly sang HB to them all, it was really for Denise.  Gotta be present to have it sung to you!  (Oops, will that discourage folks from attending?) 

Jeff and Jane were each presented with 6 year perfect attendance recognition.  I suspect Jack did his usual and got their 5 year tags back – saves money, you know! 

Roberta was asked to explain why she wasn't wearing her meeting badge.  There was some discussion of her "loosing" it when she took it home after a meeting.  (Now, that's a fineable action in itself!)  But even worse, she let it slide off the car seat and into the seat adjustment mechanism which "did a job" on it.  She had snuck around using an old regular badge but finally turned in both the badges (the old and the mangled) and asked for a replacement.  As a Life Member Roberta has one of those special badges, and of course they are in short supply and quite valuable.  Since she had "confessed" it didn't seem that the Pres could be too tough on her, but something green was added to the "Fine" card box. 

There were a fair number of H$ deposited in that card box, but only a few got recorded.  As usual, I was having too much fun.  Duane has graduated from his "in the REAL water" rowing class and now is qualified to do it on his own.  Hope he doesn't go out under the Bay Bridge!  There were lots of H$ for our now active web site (www.berkeleykiwanis.org ) and if you haven't reviewed it, you should.  Just remember, it gets changed daily since it is still in the forming stage.  Send your comments to the webmaster (Debra). 

Bettye introduced our speaker, Eva Garcia, the acting Director of the West Berkeley Senior Center (Hearst & 6^th Streets).  Eva has been "acting" Director for 6 months and is currently on the short list to become THE Director.  She told us a bit about "her" Center and the programs it offers, including a hot lunch five days a week.  There is a fee for the lunch, but most of the activities are supported by the City.  The target population is low income Seniors, but all Seniors are welcome.  (Maybe we should meet there!!! Most of us qualify.)   Line dancing, holistic fitness, computer operation, Food and Nutrition are some of the many activities/classes offered and there are even a couple of pool tables available for you sharks.  Eva mentioned a "story-telling" class – that should be right up our alley.  They are having a pre-holiday lunch party on Nov 16 (Friday) and would welcome some volunteer help to set up, serve and clean up.  Nothing was said about helping cook!  Bettye will probably show up next week with a sign-up sheet. 

Eva was pretty brief, and after she answered questions there were still 10 minutes left.  So, Khing Khong made a bigggg mistake, and asked if anyone had a story to tell.  JP and Denise both jumped up, and both paid.  You needed to be there – well, maybe not! 

Joe led the Pledge right after Bettye admitted she is still working on next week's program. 

And off into the sunlight we went.        

10/30/07

October 16, 2007 Printer/ Mailer, Duane Leonard

^{KIWANIS CLUB u Celebratin’ Service u BERKELEY, CA}

A young mystery Cal student, who claimed to be our fearless president Phuoc K, dressed in flip flops and backwards baseball cap called the meeting into order today. A room full of ghouls and goblins greet him back.

We have Devilish Denise H. on ticket sales, Bob Rice leads God bless America with some help from American Idol, Borden P. Bill F gave our thanks in the invocation, and hardly recognizable hairy version of Bob S is on the fine box, from here on in called the box of Ultimate Doom.

We have six in costume today, Sandy in German gear, President Khong a cal-student, Denise H a devil, Bill C as his alter ego: the big bad wolf, Bob as… Bob S with hair. George M tried to pass as a golfer and Roberta B as a Korean tourist but I think that was not quite far enough of a stretch. For each legitimately costumed kiwanian, President Khong put in 1 scary dollar into the box of Ultimate Doom.

Our favorite sponsored youth club came in with a not seven donuts but seven boxes of donuts. Joe L tells about Key to College, where the college students hold a panel to introduce high school students to college. They had an Eat for Service event on Saturday. Then they also worked at a Pirates of Emerson as a fundraiser. FTC is this weekend and we have several Kiwanians joining them. Our sugar-loving members were then supplied with delicious holey baked goods. I guess they just wouldn’t wait till the candy was cheap after Halloween for their sugar rush.

Jeff reminds us that we no longer have parking rights! We only have two slots, one for el presidente and one for our guest speaker.

$$$$ Jeff also reminds us Dues are due. $$$$

Scholarship chair Tammy P. announces that work has began in the scholarship program. Interest is accruing! Great! Lots of monies to give out! Scholarship committee has been talking about goods and bads of previous years. There are many new ideas. Duane is going to start talking to High school counselors to find out when to put out the application and when is the best day to have scholarship lunch. Discussion has began on perhaps helping out students who are going to a trade school? Also, we are looking to put together a new process for Cazadero scholars to get our monies. A new idea is giving money early (in 8^th grade), which earns interests through hs, encouraging those students to do well in high school to use that money! Also remember, you can donate too! Tax deductible. John P. mentions, increasing the dollar amount with inflation, then trick or treats for the foundation.

Announcement: President Cal Fan is happy to tell us that Berkeleykiwanis.org is up and running! Thanks to Debra and George.

Committee reports:

Fundraising: Werewolf Bill announce 50-50 tickets are for sale for our holiday auction. Tickets are only 10 dollars a piece. Also you can buy a table at the holiday auction. At this point, President Cal Fan’s phone goes off, did he put a dollar in the box of Ultimate Doom for that?

Holiday Auction Planning meeting: Every week there is going to be a meeting at 11:30am fundraising planning for holiday auction. Come help out!

Interclub: Werewolf Bill tells about the wonderful interclub with Debra Phuoc, Bill and Virginia represented at the spaghetti feed for Hayward/Castro Valley’s first on 10/25/07. We’re looking to have an interclub at Richmond tomorrow 12 at Gonzalez restaurant. We need a forth! Who wants to go?

Shelves for Emerson: Sandy, Denise and Jack worked on making shelves last week. Let’s get Oakland Tech to join in helping install these shelves.

President Cal Fan also reports that fire relief, project is coming along. We might have a free van from enterprise, and lots of people who are wanting to help… More to come on this.

Membership chair Debra W says committee meeting has been postponed due to scheduling conflict to next Tuesday at 8pm at Brennan’s. Join in help plan the function of the meeting, talk about possible projects for active members and have some dinner and drinks!

Birthday!!! Roberta! A little late due to surprise party this weekend. It is the 60^th year! Let’s sing!

Hey Jane A! We have a lovely perfect attendance pin to give to you. When are you going to start showing up again?

Happys and Sads for our box of Ultimate Doom

• A happy 5 from Evie who has been gone, lots of happy times with sister. Sounds like a busy weekend celebrating reunions and Roberta’s bday
• President Cal Fan gives a happy dollar for carving pumpkins, he went simple and so his face didn’t fall over.
• Leo is happy to make his annual trip to Kiwanis meetings. (great to see you!)
• Bill faye is happy for Betty, who was gone.
• Jeff announces happiness for Bob growing hair over night
• John P says, “Here’s a dollar, I’m happy”
• Bob R adds more money for the Bob S. hair cut fund.
• Borden P is also happy.

George introduces our guest speakers, Dan Sawislak, president who is speaking on oxford project and Brower Center. Chris Hess talks about social services available. RCD is a nonproject committee development. Create housing and managed for those who were homeless or need help, also social services since 1984. The site is just eight blocks away, there is a large construction project, a hole in the ground. Half of these apartments are 2-3 bedroom family. There will be amenities: computers lab for training for youth and adults, outdoor spaces, parking, Brower center also will be adding 800 sq feet of retail space, restaurant, 100 spot underground parking lot. Housing with services is a key element to creating opportunities in people’s lives. This can help people deal with transportation, saving for education, housing etc.

They welcome support by being a community builder, or going to annual event at the Berkeley rep through advertisements or itesmf or auction in June or come in to connect and help out directly with their residents.

10/23/2007

^{KIWANIS CLUB Celebratin' Service BERKELEY, CA}

Next meeting (close to Halloween) the Pres. will pay $1 for each person who wears a costume.

With a loud WAHOO Pres. Khing Khong welcomed all to the fourth meeting of his term. It was a beautiful summer (???) day, but isn't this October? We were graciously greeted at the front table by S. Hearn, who took our money and handed out lunch tickets like a pro. B. Rice led us in song and J. Piercy gave a heartfelt invocation. Your "fine" money is safe on the poker table when it is in the hands of D. Wong.

Two guests joined us. Suzanne Mondel from the Salvation Army on Garden Street in Oakland is looking for a Kiwanis Club. She was a former Circle Ker, and we would love to see her join our group. Erik Hansen is the pastor to youth at First Presbyterian Church in Berkeley; he was the guest of G. Maxe. Also in our midst were three Circle Kers from the great UCB. Joe, Virginia and Hedwig all put in appearances and had something to say.

Circle K is BUSY as usual. Last Friday we enjoyed a pizza K family gathering at Bobby G's on University Avenue. This coming Saturday they host their annual Halloween Children's Festival at the Lincoln Center in Oakland. If you feel like showing up to help decorate the haunted house, they'll be busy at that from 7pm to midnight both Thursday and Friday. The Festival is 8-4 the 27^th. Too tired to cook after the Festival?? Then head off to Pasta Pomodoro in El Cerrito to have dinner. 20% of the monies from what you purchase will come back to Circle K (it's a fundraiser!!). Sunday is the Key to College Program to be held on the Cal Campus from 8-3. They expect students from 13-16 high schools to attend. Another fundraiser is selling Krispy Kreme

donuts. For a fee donuts will be delivered to Kiwanis next Tuesday. The first weekend of November is FTC (Fall Training Conference). It's a great experience… and lots of fun to attend as a Kiwanian. The Circle Kers love our company!!!

Pres. Khing Khong announced that the Key Clubbers had their Fall Rally this past Saturday. It was very well attended, and over $13,000 was raised for PTP. This is a huge increase over previous years. All who went had a great time.

Interclub chair B. Carpenter announced two interclubs this past week; The K family dinner and the Oakland Club. Oakland's Holiday Auction will be held on December 3^rd.

PLEASE pick up your phone and dial Charlie Fitch. He has had another fall, was in the hospital for a bit, and now is home. Let's all keep in touch!!!

S. Hearn announced that anyone interested in helping to varnish boards for the Emerson School shelves should show up at her house THIS Friday morning about 10ish. It'll be a couple of hours of service for the school, and you'll feel great for the experience and comraderie. Give her a call!!

RIF is tomorrow and Thursday. WOW.. finally!!

Both days should be finished no later than noon.

8:30am Wed. we begin at the 10^th Street site. 9:00am on Thurs. we begin at the Emery Marina site. Thanks to all who signed up to help. Want or need a smile… come on out for this service event.

Call VC if you're interested.

:) :) :) :) :) :) $$$$$$$$$$$$$$

They were numerous and some were large!! B. Fay very, very, very sad about the Bears. D. Leonard made it J by saying they'll win Saturday. F. Bliss sporting a new suit, shirt and tie purchased in Korea. He also got 2 other suits, a total of six shirts and six ties AND a leather jacket. WE need to see that leather jacket!! S. Hearn very, very happy she made it around the track 2 times. B. Lowman sad that she cannot make RIF as she has to work (and we thought she was retired!!). J. Rosano asking for prayers for the firefighters and the residents in Southern California at this time. Pres KK is going to look into a possible project of collecting blankets and household goods to send down. Great idea.

G. Maxe introduced our speaker, Tracy Hanna, head of the Teen program at the YMCA. PG&E has donated a building directly across the street from Berkeley High to the YMCA specifically for a teen center. It will take 2-3 years to get it up and running. The Teen Center is in the process of hiring 6 teens from across the city to help plan, design, and suggest programs for this center. These teens will be paid for their hours (approx. 10 hours per week) + will receive a stipend at the end of the 12-18 month period. Other segments of the present Team program are Y Scholars (helping and mentoring the first child in a family to be able to get to college), Outsiders (a work training program), and Youth and Government (includes some traveling to get to various "events"- thus they fundraise!!). We are looking for ways to be involved with the YMCA, both in the younger age levels (ie Head Start) and the teen level and all ages in between!!

By the way: Cazadero work day will be April 19^th, Gualala the weekend after that.. SAVE the dates!

YMCA concerts coming up:

Nov 3: Valley Center for the Performing Arts, Holy Names Univ., 3500 Mountain Blvd.

8:00pm.

Nov 4: Vacaville Performing Arts Theatre

1010 Ulatis Drive, Vacaville. 3:00pm

More info: www.ypsomusic.net

Or 510-849-ypso

JOBS FOR THE YEAR:

Administration: J. Egeberg

Meetings: February & August

Kollegiate Meetings Programs

J. Egeberg D. Haughin F. Bliss

V. Carpenter B. Price B. Hanawalt

T. Paradis B. Rice

J. Piercy Roster/Calendar

D. Wong J. Rosano

J. Piercy

E. Levitch

Community Services: B. Lowman

Meetings: May & November

Local Focus Children Focus

B. Lowman E. Goodman

L. Hanawalt G. Maxe

R. Bliss T. Woo

Cazadero Gualala New Ideas

F. Bliss J. Rosano G. Maxe

B. Fay

Fundraising: V. Carpenter

Meetings: March & September

Holiday Auc. Solano Stroll Octoberfest

L. Hanawalt J. Piercy J. Egeberg

J. Alexander F. Bliss

D. Haughin D. Haughin EcoMetro Bks

V. Carpenter D. Leonard D. Leonard

R. Forbes P. Khong

P. Khong

Membership: D. Wong

Meetings: April & October

Recruitment Retention Education

D. Wong E. Goodman J. Piercy

P. Khong C. Fitch

Sponsored Youth: D. Haughin

Meetings: January & July

Circle K Key Cl. BH Key Cl. Oak.T

J. Alexander D. Haughin P. Khong

T. Ng V. Carpenter L. Hanawalt

S. Chun

W. Carpenter

B. Barnwell

Youth Services: S. Hearn

Meetings: June & December

DEAR YPSO Scholarships

E. Goodman E. Levitch T. Paradis

F. Bliss S. Hearn G. Maxe

RIF F. Bliss A. Paradis

V. Carpenter

HAVE A GREAT YEAR!!

10/16/07

"King" (Prexy) Khong started the meeting with a clang of the bell within seconds of 12:30.  He must be trying to break with the tradition of "late".  It's a good thing since even with starting late, he ran into the speaker's time (but more later). 

Awaiting us on our tables was the "annual" club survey.  King asked us to fill them out while we ate lunch.  I have trouble double tasking myself, but to take notes, eat lunch, and fill out a form is way beyond capacity.  Got it done, though.  Some had to stay after "class" to get it done! 

Phuoc admitted that he hadn't appointed a Secret Greeter and thus couldn't sell insurance or collect fines.  VC volunteered that she would serve as the SG and asked that everyone be fined.  That wasn't done, and I didn't note that Fine Box Carrier "Fruit" Bob collected from her.  Just another missed opportunity. 

The working crew, besides Bob, included George on the ticket desk (note the neat pile of money, Duane); Bob Rice on GBA (with one note accompaniment by Frank) and invocation by our Spiritual Engineer, Roberta. 

Time to mention that the Blisses arrived back from Korea tomorrow and thus were not too current on sleep, but vowed to get back on "normal" schedule by tomorrow.   
 

They had a great two weeks, including celebration of grandson's 1^st BD.  (But I didn't note any H$ for that occasion!).  We will get the full report at a later meeting when they get their pix and sleep straightened out. 

Ed L. introduced his new "girl Friday" (Boy, what a job she has), Jessica.  Please do not confuse her with Jenny – she's his "girl" every day.  Ed was also effusive with his pride in the pictures of Gualala that Elizabeth had taken and Jessica was able to retrieve from the innards of the computer. 

Another guest (stranger) walked in with Ed and Jessica – the one and only Zalman.  He was not recorded as a guest, but seems to be in good health.  He did mention that he and Carina are no longer a couple, but did not give any details, and of course no one asked. 

Al Coe was called upon to report his trip to Little Farm with daughter and grand daughter, and his pride at seeing the sign board that gave credit to this Club and the Berkeley High shop class for developing the start of the Little Farm 50 years ago.  Al suggests that if you haven't been up recently you ought to make a visit – particularly on a weekend when there are lots of kids. 

Duane reported very briefly, but very positively on the Oktoberfest and VC noted that we should net "north of" $2000 when  

the expenses are paid.  The date of 20 Sep has been chosen for next year (The UCB Bears have a "Bye") and the "band" (Edelweis) scheduled – they had a good time, too - so mark it on your calendar and DON'T allow anything to keep you away. 

Alex subbed for Joe and filled us in on Circle K activities.  It is impossible to keep notes on his rapid fire speech but I have notes that say UCB had a first place team in the N. CA. "Competition"; they enjoyed helping at the Oktoberfest (their assistance was priceless); and they are working on a "Renovating Oakland" project.  Perhaps Tammy should get them to renovate her kitchen!?? 

King finally recognized our "sitting" LtGuv and IP LtGuv and then another past LtGuv, but not the 4^th VIP.  Believe it or not, that was VC and there wasn't a peep (then) from her, either! 

Secy Jack noted that "Dues are Due" and circulated a Roster that he's about to give to the "composing agent".  If you weren't there and have any changes you better phone them to him tomorrow! 

RIF will be on Oct. 24 & 25, but VC left the sign-up sheets somewhere, so call her if you want the details and to sign up.  She will hopefully have the sheets with her next week, but that is just the day before. 

The quiet half of the Carps reported on 2 interclubs this past week and is looking for help to make a visit to Richmond tomorrow, but this will probably get to you too late to help.  Come to lunch and you will be informed a bit more timely. 

King noted that there are 3 anniversarys this  month, Steve and Doris Chun, Bob and Lois Brown, and Bob and Joyce Skrak.  Bob S was the only celebrant present, so we should all call Steve and Bob B. 
 

Lots of H/S $.  Fay H to see Zalman and going to see UCLA vs UCB but S re. Oregon. Jeff S that Bill H did not dress Linda as well today as he did Saturday (you had to be at both to be in on this).  VC, Linda, Phuoc H for Oktoberfest.  Borden H that JP sang as loud as he did.  Linda H to attend a Quilt Festival and buy a long arm quilter.  (I didn't think she had such short arms!)   

And, Sandy had a H that she is participating in Hopewalk to support children suffering (mentally or physically) from AIDS  She hopes to raise contributions thru

www.firstgiving.org/sandyhearn.   You can read the details at www.globalstrategies.org 

Bill H introduced longtime friend and partner, Phil Hudner, who came over to talk to us about the Donner Party.  He is a direct descendent of a survivor.  Phil noted that most folks know of the Donner Party from the reports of cannibalism.  It's a long story, but the first problem was that the party did not travel "lite", but had way overloaded wagons (no room for anyone to ride), were always late (and getting later), and were given some terrible advice – take the short way over Donner Pass rather than the long way (but not so high!) to Oregon and then South.  Phil took a bus trip (not overloaded) that followed the Donner route and found lots of corroboration of information passed down thru his family.  Take what you read with a grain of salt seems to be his evalua-tion of most of the literature on the subject. 

Next week, Tracy Hanna of the YMCA will talk about the YMCA Teen Program.  The following week we will hear about the Oxord Project which is slowly growing to new heights. 

Gail led the Pledge and King Khong rang the gong so we could all go out into the rain.

10/09/2007

The Berkeley Kiwanis Club

October 13, 2007

_____________________

October 2007: To Start With 

At long last, there was an idyllic Club Installation event Saturday in the park (Live Oak, that is), and President Elect Phuoc is finally Prez PK. Former Prez Retread is finally a Past President (again), and boy, is he happy! The incoming Prez treated everyone to gourmet catered BBQ and made his remarks short and sweet but nevertheless indicated some lofty and worthwhile goals for new ideas this coming year.  

Meanwhile, the outgoing retread congratulated all for some great successes AFTERALL this last year:

• the "best-ever" Holiday Auction (V. Carpenter & L. Hannawalt presiding),
• the "best-ever" Camp Gualala outing (J. Rosano presiding, and thanks to, or in spite of, the efforts of team leaders such as G. Maxe, E. Levitch, J. Piercy, S. Hearn),
• the biggest (for a long time) & best Scholarship Award Program, which

 
 
 
 

(spearheaded by the always invigorating T. Paradis and a cast of thousands), 

• the emergence of a greatly strengthened K Family through the leadership and effort of several, starting with G. Maxe, D. Wong, P. Khong, D. Haughin, and last but not least

L. Hannawalt for bringing us a new youth program (The Key Club from Oakland Tech), among other good things.

• The last great event is our next fund-raising/social event of the year, the 1^st ever Berkeley Kiwanis Oktoberfest, coming right up this Saturday, October 13.

 

As a fitting expression of gratitude, the ex-prez presented each of these leaders with their very own personalized German beer steins to be put to good use at this gala event.   

For the non-beer-drinkers and tie-shunners, he presented G. Maxe, P. Khong, E. Levitch with an eclectic collection of license plate frames and strange neckties.

And Now for a Clean Start 

Anyway, getting on (finally!) to today's meeting at the historic City Club (with new parking rules in place), Mr. Khong, at his very 1^st meeting as the installed president of the Berkeley Kiwanis Club, walked in with the very same Kiwanis "children-of-the-world" tie on that he recently acquired. (Rumor was, however, he had to go out and buy a new shirt to wear a tie with). 

Wow, did we have guests today? To start with, it seems like we always have the sitting Lt Governor with us, and this time it's none other than our very own E. Levitch. While he had the spotlight, he introduced his very own guest, known to some as the young Ms. Levitch, Susie,  
 
 
 

wife of son Jeff. Since he still had the spotlight, he then announced the 1^st DCM of the year this Thursday at 5:00 p.m. at the office of Levitch Associates. A fantastic dinner is evidently included, and it wasn't clear whether donations are appreciated (but they probably are).  

After all those intros, once again D. Wong quietly introduced her usual guest, Evan. Nice to see him again (hmmm…)  

Marching On 

There was no Secret Greeter today, and this may be a sign of the times. The rumors were something about a conflict of interest in selling insurance (legal regulations and licensing provisions or something like that).  

The obviously biggest announcement of the week by D. Leonard about how all is a very big GO for the much-anticipated 1^st annual Oktoberfest – Lederhosen , Dirndl boobettes (needn't I remind you), Oom-Pah Bands, German raffles, and all. SEE YOU THERE! 

Other exciting events this week are the regular meeting of the not-so-regular UC Circle K Tues night at 100 Wheeler,  

AND a fantastic Interclub opportunity this Wed at the Alameda Club's Policeman of the Year ceremony. 

Oh, and don't forget LtGovEd's DCM dinner Thur and you have an action-packed week!! 

Lastly, next week there's another fantastic opportunity at the Spaghetti Feed at  Hayward-Castro Valley on Oct 25. 

Then Circle K took over with their never-ending agenda including:

• Cal Avenue  (10/13) on campus: fundraising, etc
• K Family Dinner (10/19) – still looking for location
• Rebuilding Oakland (10/20)
• Childrens Festival (10/27)
• Key to College (10/28) – looking for Kiwanis speakers on your college experience
• Halloween event (10/30)

 
 

Late in the Game 

There were so many Happy/Sad dollars that it's impossible to record them all. Especially with his large contribution for the rubber fine box last year, J. Egeberg tried, with some cockamamie logic to apply the proceeds to last year's books (his year), but it didn't work at all. 

Overtime 

Prez Phuoc warned us of changes this year, and we started off his 1^st meeting with the program coming along BEFORE the meeting. What's that all about? Well, it turns out that our speaker had conflicting obligations, and it's unlikely we'll keep it up all year (so don't worry). 

Then G. Maxe introduced a superb program for the day, Pamm Shaw of YMCA"s Head Start program, which has been rapidly growing, particularly in the Bay Area, and actually has more "Early Head Start" classes (age 3 years and younger). They are very appreciative of Kiwanis programs, such as coaching and mentoring by Circle K and our very popular RIF programs and are always interested in partnering with us. Her fundamental question for us is "If you have an hour… (especially if you have special skills such as music, computers)" She had a couple of anecdotes about

how they were referred to recently by medical authorities as to the only place they could find Spanish speaking baby delivery. And then she told the happy/sad success story about one of their "graduates" who got a $90,000 job offer but that cut her off from welfare because the federal low income level is $20,000 (for a family of four). In summary, just remember "If you have an hour…" – that's the way Pamm wants us to close. Thanks, Pamm!