Lifestyle
T
he Kiwanis Club of LBI proudly celebrates their 40th anniversary this year at the same time the Kiwanis Club International celebrates its 100th anniversary.
Since the local club’s incorporation in 1975, this altruistic group has been dedicated to the mission of serving children worldwide. Teachers, accountants, tradespeople, retirees and people from all professions who live on the island and the mainland meet once a week to plan and implement programs and fund-raisers.
recruiting campaigns have resulted in the induction of 14 new members with more on the way. Big fund-raisers are the Super 50/50 Raffle, Texas Hold ‘Em tournaments, and flea markets held every summer at the park on 9th Street and the Bay. This year’s flea markets are scheduled for July 9 and August 13 from 8am to 4pm.
Recently, I attended a Kiwanis meeting in Ship Bottom. After coffee and the weekly raffle, I was impressed that the first order of business was to stand and face our American flag to sing God Bless America, followed by the pledge of allegiance and a prayer.
The club hosts an Easter breakfast and a Christmas breakfast every year for special needs children. Approximately 80 children attend the event where they participate in arts and crafts and receive gifts from the Easter Bunny and Santa Claus. Members support children’s hospitals, community organizations and school programs, distribute food baskets during holidays, aid veterans and military families, teach bike safety to children, and provide citizenship awards and scholarships to students.
In recognition of their 40th year, the club is holding a special drive to attract new members. Through March of 2015, successful
Kiwanis of LBI sponsors and mentors three youth service clubs: the Builders Club of Southern Regional Middle School, and the Key
Key Club members of Southern Regional High School. Back row: Alex Henderson, Avila Reynolds, Sam Westpy, Heather Cullen, Chris Melillo. Middle row: Kayla Byrnes, Francesca Brown, Colleen Cochran, Elena Nitting, Ltg. Julia Paco, Becca Pallen, Gov. Josie Suddeth, Advisor Ms. Peg Malley, Summer Cordasco, Max Maffie, Alyssa Casini, Kēlani Anastasia, Sarah Paco, Kieran Lyons. Front row: Laura Hunt, Anna Spaschek, Maggie Adair, Christine Chirichillo, Christine Suddeth, Kailey Bertelson, Sam Pitarski, Evonna Ranade. Kieran Lyons photo Page 48 56 • Echoes of LBI