Rockwall selected as host site for Kiwanis convention

Rockwall selected as host site for Kiwanis convention

(Rockwall) October 25, 2012 – Members of the Rockwall County Kiwanis Club are busy preparing for the arrival of more than 800 fellow Kiwanians, who will converge upon the shores of Lake Ray Hubbard next summer for the 95th Annual Texas/Oklahoma District Convention of Kiwanis International.

This is the second year that Rockwall has been selected as the host site for the District Convention, which is scheduled for August 9-11, 2013 at the Hilton Bella Harbor.

The 2009 convention drew nearly 1,000 visitors to the area’s hotels, restaurants and shops, and proved to be such a success that Rockwall was among the top choices for the 2013 gathering. Ann Wilkins, Governor for Texas/Oklahoma District 2012-13, will preside over the convention.

“This is an important time for Kiwanians, when we come together to work on our bylaws and policies, elect the new district governor, and take advantage of training and networking opportunities,” said Glen Farris, who once again serves as Convention Chair. “With the support of clubs in our Division, Rockwall Kiwanians look forward to another outstanding meeting with The Harbor as its beautiful backdrop.”

The convention schedule will allow time for visiting Kiwanians to experience some of Rockwall’s finest dining and entertainment hot spots. Farris says he also hopes it gives local residents the chance to learn more about Kiwanis and its mission to “change the world one child and one community at a time.”

“We are actively seeking new members. If you have a heart for service and a love for children, we encourage you to join us,” said Farris, who recently began his second term as president of the Rockwall club. “We support Lone Star CASA, the Boys and Girls Club, Helping Hands and others to help children in the Rockwall community.”

They also offer the Angel League Baseball Program for special needs children, the Terrific Kids School Recognition Program and the Wheel Chair Ramp Build Program. They sponsor Key Club for Rockwall and Heath high schools, provide community grants and educational scholarships, and host the annual Tri-Rock Triathlon.

‘Through the Eyes of A Child’ Christmas Parade

Next up on their calendar is Rockwall’s Christmas parade, coming Saturday, December 1.

Registration is underway through Monday, November 19 and is limited to 100 groups. Floats will be judged on the theme of “Through the Eyes of a Child.”

To register, visit rockwallkiwanis.org or call 972-722-6001 for more information.

“Each year we hold a poster contest for all the third through fifth graders in Rockwall ISD. The student with the winning artwork serves as Grand Marshal of the parade,” said Farris. ‘This year’s winner is Courtney Kirk form Amy Parks  Elementary School.”

Discover Kiwanis

Rockwall Kiwanians meet at 7 p.m. the first Tuesday of every month at the Rockwall Wedding Chapel, 305 S. Fannin St., making it convenient for visitors to drop by and see what Kiwanis is all about. They also host noon luncheon meetings there on all other Tuesdays, often with guest speakers. Mayor David Sweet will address the group at the October 30 meeting, and Scott Self will speak about adventures in sailing November 13. To learn more, visit rockwallkiwanis.org.

Written by Dawn Redig, Blue Ribbon News, all rights reserved.

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