Spring is a season of transformations. The temperature warms and green returns to us. It is a time of rebirth and celebration about the things to come. This past winter, as many of you know, I suffered with some serious health issues. My doctor assures me that this spring, I too am well on my way back to good health. Thank you all for the generous outpouring of well wishes and support for Nydia and me during this trying time. Each of you made us feel cared for and we were touched by so many expressions of concern. We will never forget it.
The Kiwanis Pediatric Trauma Center has also seen some changes this spring. Long-time Treasurer Selwin "Jerry" Rudnick has stepped down as treasurer. Past President John Lalena and PP Richard DeCastro have also stepped down from the KPTC board. We sincerely thank these men for their service and many years of dedication to KPTC. In the Kiwanis fashion, more good people have stepped forward to bring continuity to our board. DPLG Michael Siniski has been confirmed as treasurer and DPLG Susan Groenwoud and DPLG Rick Santer join our board as directors.
On June 13, with the help of our Service Leadership Committee lead by Rickie Santer we will be hosting The KPTC Game Show Night at the Bowling Green Elementary School in Westbury. Tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for students. The evening will be full of family-friendly fun where audience members will have the chance to compete in versions of games like "The Price is Right", "Family Feud", the "Not-So-Newly-Wed Game", "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire", and of course, "Hollywood Squares" for a chance to win raffle tickets for some great prizes including a kitchen set, gift card worth up to $50, an eReader, and an iPad. Come out, it will be great fun!
On June 22, the KPTC Foundation will hold its Nassau to Suffolk Annual 25, 50 and 62 mile Bike Ride. Registration starts at 7:30 a.m. at the Harry Tappen Beach, 500 Shore Road, Glennwood Landing. The first ride kicks off at 8 a.m.
Save the date! The 2014 Annual Black & White Ball is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 19, at Leonard's of Great Neck. Come out for a formal (black tie) event and dance the night away. It is a special night that highlights the KPTC Fellowship awards presented to deserving kiwanians. I am sure you have someone in your club who deserves this prestigious honor.
Just this past week, members from the KPTC Board presented the KPTC Video and Presentation to the Brooklyn Division. The many facts and images reinforced why we do what we do - help children. The importance of trauma prevention and education is in the forefront of all of our efforts. We offer an interesting presentation at no charge to our clubs and it makes a great program for the evening and gets kiwanians out to a meeting. If you are interested in this presentation please contact me at (917) 282-9498.
Let's use this spring season as a chance to continue our support of the Kiwanis Pediatric Trauma Center Foundation. Let's simultaneously tend to our environment and care for ourselves and our loved ones. Help write the chapter of new beginnings this spring in creating positive outcomes for the children we serve.
More details about the events mentioned above and our new newsletter packed filled with great events can be found on our website www. http://kiwanispediatrictraumacenter.org
Column Posted on Web Site May 27, 2014
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