In the absence of Club President Tom Ketelaar, First Vice President Jeff Behrens called the meeting of July 2 to order and led the flock. Entertainment was again provided by Jonathan Turner and his Canada Day Lonesome Riders.
The first announcement came from Gene Smith, who gave everyone a last shot at completing their Birdies for Charity entry forms. Things will probably get ugly very soon if you don't submit one, so I recommend that you make a contribution.
The Division golf outing will be coming up soon in Kewanee. Contact Club leadership if you'd like to get a team together.
Tom Plechaty gave us our first announcement of the softball tournament to be held August 10, 11 and 12. Positions are closing out rapidly to work the gate, so you'll probably want to get your name in as soon as possible.
The Bag Board Builders Club meets every Thursday night at Adam Bain's house in preparation for this popular September 15 event. If you have any questions, Adam has agreed to take calls any time of the day or night.
Dale Grabau gave a report on Bob VanDeVoorde's wife's condition. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers.
Speaking of sudden project announcements, Daryl Empen informed us that the dates of July 13 and 14 have been secured with the managers of the 18th Avenue Rock Island Hy-Vee and Walgreen's stores. If you aren't tied up with any one of half a dozen other things that are going on, join your fellow Club members tossing peanuts.
John Califf gave a very fine and brief summary of action taken at the recent International Convention in New Orleans. Two highlights of the trip were that the assembly voted down the dues increase, and Jim Rocheford from Peoria was elected to serve on the International Board of Trustees.
The next Interclub will be July 18 in Kewanee at noon. If you haven't had enough Kiwanis by then, jump in and make a few points for your membership team.
The Grants Committee will be meeting July 23 after the regular meeting. If you know of someone who would be interested in making a grant application, please advise them accordingly.
Bill Nelson reminded us that Red, White & Boom holiday celebrations would be going on July 3, with the annual regatta taking place July 4.
In Fun and Fellowship, Jerry Upchurch won the preliminary prize, which he graciously donated back to the Club for a contribution to Habitat for Humanity. The Kartel won the opportunity to go for the grand prize, and even with Mike Bell also absent, Jeff Behrens managed to keep the money for the Club.
