The first meeting under the new regime was called to order on Monday, October 3, with Club President, Tom Ketelaar, presiding. Jonathan Turner once again provided entertainment along with his Kiwanis Goodtime Band.

      The regular Club meeting of October 10 was called to order by Club President, Tom Ketelaar. Entertainment was provided by Jonathan Turner and his Columbus Day Trio of Nina, Pinta and Santa Maria.

      President Tom began his announcements by reminding us of the availability of Dining Tour books for the low cost of $35. He also added that arrangements have been made with Rotary and Circa 21 for a January 25, 2012 get-together to see the popular musical "Grease".

      Tom next informed us that Sheila Gusse would be the coordinator of working out the reading program to be conducted at the Martin Luther King Center.

      Tom also made note of the invocation and songleading volunteer sheet which was circulating through the room.

      Second Vice President, John Califf, announced that the Grants Committee would be reorganizing in terms of membership but that the task of the Committee would be continuing and, of note, is already heavily involved.

      In Fun and Fellowship, Steve Schroder won the preliminary prize but, in the absence of Mike Bell, President Tom managed to wrest the grand prize money away from the Kartel qualifier.

      Tom Plechaty informed us that peanuts would be available for delivery next Monday.

The Feature Attraction

      The program was given by the Director of Niabi Zoo, Mark Ryan. Mark began his presentation with some personal background, stating that he hails from Michigan, he started with Niabi Zoo in October of 2010, he has 22 years of experience with a variety of zoos and operations and has worked in Peoria, the Indianapolis Zoo, the Brookfield Zoo, the Shedd Aquarium, and the Aquarium at the Pacific in Long Beach, California. Mark informed the group that Niabi Zoo has been in operation for almost 50 years and has benefitted significantly in its accreditation with the national organization, the American Zoological Association. This has enabled it to pursue a number of types of improvements and to endorse a number of national standards. Currently, the Zoo is in the process of engaging in a major fund drive, seeking approximately $4,000,000, a significant portion of which will be used to enhance and expand the elephant shelter.

Future Attractions