The Kiwanis Club of Paola was chartered with the theme “Improving the World; One Child and One Community at a Time.”  The club was the first club chartered in the Kansas District in 2004-05.

On Wednesday, September 14, 2005 the Paola club members took the stage at the Paola High School to receive their official charter and pins.   The ceremony was opened by Lt. Governor Cynthia Sdano with the Olathe Sunrise Kiwanis Club conducting the flag salute and the Kiwanis Club of Merriam the patriotic singing.  The welcome was given by the Paola Mayor Artic Stuteville. The formal Charter presentation was made by 2004-05 Governor Richard McCall with the member recognition and pinning completed by 2005-06 Governor John Fajen and District Secretary Dot Leakey.

The installation of the new club officers was conducted by 2004-05 Lt. Governor Cynthia Sdano.   The officers present to receive their pinning were President Jan Owens; Vice-President Mary Wheeler; Secretary Lois Osborn; and Treasurer Teresa Reese.  The Paola Club chartered with 22 motivated and dedicated members.  The club has already completed several community service and school projects.        

Many gifts were exchanged to the Club and individuals who gave so much time and effort to build the club.  Closing remarks were given by 2005-06 Lt. Governor Bill Donegan.

A second club has been organized and was  chartered on November 3rd. Gardner is located between Lawrence and Kansas City. This is the first time the city of Gardner has had a Kiwanis Club and we are very excited to have them join the K-Family.

Kiwanians Gary Grose and Gene Beery have been working since this summer organizing the club. Look for pictures from Gardner’s charter celebration in the next issue of the Kansas Kiwanian.