CLUB NEWS

Volume 32, Number 2
http://floridadistrictexchange.com
Fall 2010
FLORIDA BRINGS HOME 25 NATIONAL AWARDS
100th Anniversary
National Exchange Club
93rd Annual Convention
Detroit, Michigan
In This Issue
President’s Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
District News . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4, 24-25
Club News . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-18, 20-21
People in the News . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Child Abuse Prevention . . . . . . . .22-23
Convention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
District Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
The Florida District won 25
individual, club, and district
awards at the 92nd Annual
National Exchange Club
Convention July 22.
Presidential Award
Awarded by National President
Claude Carmack for
outstanding performance:
Eric Menger
Power Recruiter Award
Paul McShane
Bill MacArthur
10 Member Pin
Doug Booth
Larry Crismond
Eric Menger
Club Membership
Achievement Award
Club must have a net increase
of five or more members and
85% member retention:
Exchange Club of the
Emerald Coast
Fall 2010
Mark Dayton, Dianne Cohrs, Ken Haas, Kathy Mize, and Theresa
Putnam accepted the Best Fundraiser Award from 2009-2010
National president Claude Carmack - Photo by Jim "Woody" Woods.
National Outstanding
Fundraising Award
(Club of 50 or more members)
Northeast Exchange Club of
St. Petersburg
Edit Award Best District Bulletin
(District with 800+ members)
The Florida Exchangite
Jan J. Binney, editor
Distinguished Club
President Award
Holly Mantle
Treasure Coast Exchange Club
Web Video Award
Gator Exchange Club of
Gainesville
Richard Ashbrook, producer
Big "E" Award
Exchange Club of the
Emerald Coast
Exchange Club of the
Treasure Coast
Club Excellence Award
Exchange Club of the
Emerald Coast
National Service Award
Exchange Club of Crestview
Exchange Club of Fellsmere
Exchange Club of Indian River
Northeast Exchange Club of
St. Petersburg
Exchange Club of Niceville
Exchange Club of
Pompano Beach
Exchange Club of Sebastian
Exchange Club of the
Emerald Coast
Exchange Club of the
Treasure Coast
Exchange Club of Vero Beach
Gator Exchange Club of
Gainesville
St. Petersburg Exchange Club
How to Apply: http://www.nationalexchangeclub.org/memberarea/Awards/awards.htm
Florida Exchangite
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PRESIDENT’S CORNER
National President Claude Carmack presented a special Presidential
Award to Eric Menger in honor of his outstanding performance as
Florida District President. - Photo by Jim "Woody" Woods
Fellow Exchangites:
A long-time friend of the family passed away recently at the age of 85. It was a total shock to me
and my loved ones because we had always just
expected him to be there. He gave no indication
that he was ill or had cancer or any other lifethreatening disease. We had talked only a few
months ago. He was always a source of support
and encouragement. He was a quiet, brilliant man.
Then he was gone.
His passing reminded me of the short time that we
are here on Earth, and how we have so little time
to live the life we want to live. In our daily life we
seem to center on daily obligations: pay the bills,
mop the floor, drive to work, drive back home, do
the dishes, walk the dog. How often do we take a
few minutes or even an hour to stop and think
about where we are, what we are doing, and where
we are all eventually headed?
Living Life to the Fullest
Many books have been written about living the
life you have to the fullest. Some focus on amassing wealth, being financially successful, or climbing the corporate ladder. But others talk about a
true successful life as one of serving others. After
all, when it is your time to leave this life and
move on, it won’t matter too much how much
wealth or how many possessions you have. What
will matter will be what you have done to help
others and how you have lived your life.
Path to Success
I believe that serving others through Exchange is
one path to success in life. For 100 years (since
1911), Exchange has been there as America’s Service Club. We are all a part of that. Just by doing
your part and offering your best in every situation
presented to you through Exchange, you begin to
amass true wealth. Little by little, you make a difference. By helping those in need, especially those
of our children who don’t have a voice or a strong
parental role model, you give a gift greater than
anything money can buy.
Terri Mermis, Executive Director, shows her approval of the
District’s $500 donation at the September 16 opening of
the new Yellow Umbrella satellite office in Rockledge.
Yes, losing a loved one or good friend always
seems to make you think about your own mortality and what you are doing in your life to make a
difference. In Exchange, we make a difference
every day of our lives. In fact, we give the gift of
our own life.
Yours in Exchange,
On September 10 Eric Menger installed Past President Beth
Courtney and President Brandon McGuire of South Brevard
Exchange Club as Division Director Diana Walker looks on.
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Florida Exchangite
Eric Menger
President, Florida District Exchange Clubs
Fall 2010
PRESIDENT’S CORNER
Meeting of the
Board of Directors
The Florida District Exchange Clubs’ Board of
Directors met Saturday, August 21, in Vero Beach.
The Board heard a presentation by Janell Johnson
about the National Foundation’s Investing In
America’s Future campaign (see page 23). She
called Exchange “America’s best-kept secret”.
President Eric Menger presented presidential appreciation awards to Amy Mueller and John Mes-
President Menger presented District Treasurer Amy Mueller with a
special award for her financial skill and professional dedication managing the District’s finances as during the 2009-2010 fiscal year
provided a Scholarship Trust report. The agenda
included planning for 2010-2011, Division Directors’ reports, and membership growth and retention. The next Board meeting is November 20.
District Goals 2010-2011
John Messal received a special award from President Eric Menger
for his work above and beyond the call of duty as Division Six
Director in providing leadership and goal-setting for the Gator
Exchange Club of Gainesville from April through July 2010.
sal. In their honor, a $50 contribution each will be
awarded to the District’s Scholarship and Child
Abuse Prevention Trust Funds from the District.
Secretary Diana Walker reviewed Minutes and
correspondence; Treasurer Amy Mueller discussed
the District’s finances and presented the 20102011 budget that was approved.
GROWTH
• Seven club development activities (two new, two
redevelopment, and three EXCEL)
• 125 new members by June 30, 2011, and no
more than 50 members lost (net 75 members)
TRAINING
• 50% of clubs represented at the 2011 Annual
Conference in Deerfield Beach
• District President and District President-Elect
will attend all national conferences
• 100% club presidents receive training from
Division Directors by June 30, 2011
PROGRAMS OF SERVICE
• 50% of clubs receive National Service Award
(continued on page 25)
President Menger presented National’s 2010 Edit Award for Best
District Bulletin to Florida Exchangite’s editor, Jan Binney.
Vice Presidents discussed the four Pillars of Exchange. Judy Landgrave presented options for this
year’s Awards program, and Roy Thompson reported on Child Abuse Prevention. Bill Schilling will
investigate ways to clubs can work with local
American Red Cross chapters. Thompson also
Fall 2010
Scott Walker, Ken Walker, Bill MacArthur, Ken Haas, Susan
Schilling, Bill Schilling, Larry Crismond (back row);
Nancy Gollnick, Dina Gebriele, John Messal, Kathy Mize, Eric
Menger, Jan Binney (middle row); Diana Walker,
Joe Binney and Copper, Judy Landgrave, Kelly Menger, and Amy
Mueller (front row) at the Friday night social
Florida Exchangite
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DISTRICT NEWS
Florida District Exchangites Attend
92nd Annual National Exchange Club Convention
La Quinta, California * July 21-24, 2010
Mark Dayton, Ken Haas, Pat Shephard, Paul McShane, Kathy Mize, Kim Prado, 2010-2011
National Exchange Club President Margie Miller, Kim Keck, Jim Brown, Kay Brown, and Eric Menger
It Wasn’t All Work...
Kathy Mize and her father, Jim Brown
Kim Prado
NEC Officers Paul McShane and Claude Carmack
Photo by Jim "Woody" Woods.
Elizabeth McShane, Paul McShane, Carl Clayton, Kay Brown, Kathy Mize, Kim Keck,
Kelly Menger, Eric Menger, Ken Haas, Mark Dayton, and Debbie Dayton;
Dianne Cohrs, Jim Brown, and Theresa Putnam (seated)
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Florida Exchangite
Fall 2010
CLUB NEWS
Division 9
Bill MacArthur, Division 9 Director
Exchange Club of Manasota East
Manatee River Business Exchange Club
Sarasota Business Exchange Club
Dinner Exchange Club of Manasota
packs, which all together were valued at more
than $7,000.
More than 150 filled backpacks were donated to
an elementary school in an underprivileged area of
Bradenton to help K-2 students begin their school
year on the right track. In a cooperative project,
the four Exchange Clubs of Division 9 (Exchange
Club of Manasota East, Manatee River Business
Exchange Club, Dinner Exchange Club of Manasota, and Sarasota Business Exchange Club),
worked together to purchase and fill the back-
Representatives of all four clubs presented the
backpacks to the G.D. Rogers Garden Elementary
School at its open house on August 21. In addition
to the Exchangites, the mascot of the Bradenton
Marauders, a Pittsburgh Pirate farm club, was also
there to assist in the fun. The event was featured
in an article titled “Exchange Clubs Donate Backpacks to Students” in The Bradenton Times on
September 6. Until recently the Division 9’s four
Exchange Clubs worked together in support of the
Family Partnership Center, but beginning with this
school year, they will extend their support to
schools of Manatee and Sarasota Counties.
A very happy second grader shows off her backpack
donated by Florida Division 9's four Exchange Clubs.
Happy students with their new backpacks celebrated
with the Bradenton Marauders mascot.
Division 9's four Exchange Clubs donated more than 150
backpacks to K-2 students of the
G.D. Rogers Garden Elementary School in Bradenton
June Harasym, President of the Dinner Exchange Club, and
Marshall Eckford, Board Director of the Manatee River Business
Exchange Club, helping students select their backpacks.
Manasota Dinner Exchange Club
The Manasota Dinner Exchange Club meets
monthly at a different restaurant each month. On
Saturday, August 28, they dined at Ferraro’s Italian Grille in Parrish. More than thirty “clubbers”
and their family members celebrated their thirdyear anniversary. They have received their club
Fall 2010
banner and patches. The Manasota Dinner Exchangites recently welcomed a new member, Dave
Bocchino of MetLife®. They rose to the challenge
of helping Division 9’s clubs supply more than150
filled backpacks to K-2 students and have raised
$66 for the Family Partnership Center.
Florida Exchangite
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CLUB NEWS
Don Ciccone, performances by local talent, a chili
eating contest, and the popular Little Miss Pepper
and Mr. Pee Wee contests.
Radio personality and Cook-Off emcee Hamp Elliot of Treasure and Space Coast Radio was surprised to read his own name as this year’s recipient of The Book of Golden Deeds Award. Hamp
has served as the event’s MC more than 25 years.
Larry Clancy, chair, Bob Davis, and Shirley Copenhauer,
members of the Chili Cook-Off committee
Fort Pierce Exchange Club
The 28th Annual Fort Pierce Exchange Club’s
Chili Cook-Off, held July 17, was a great success.
The Cook-Off, with its “Famous Moments in
History” theme, raised $26,000 for the Boys &
Girls Club of St. Lucie County. Three thousand
people attended the event at the Havert Fenn Center in Fort Pierce.
Thirty-one teams competed for the Jim Lamb Memorial Award for the Best Chili and to be one of
the Top Five Fundraising Teams. Participants received Awards for Best Showmanship, Media,
Best Government Team, Best Performance, and
Best Overall Performance in All Categories. Other
honors presented included the Chili Pepper, Exective Director’s, Jalapeno, President’s, Proud to Be
Your Bud, Chairman’s, Rookie Team, Hot and
Spicy, and the Attaboy Awards. This year’s committee included Larry Clancy, chair, Shirley
Copenhaver, and Bob Davis.
Mike Dashoff, Shirley Copenhaver, Mel Liebman, Club President
Johnathan Ferguson, Boys & Girls Club Executive Director Norm
Penner, 2011 Chili Chairman Jim O’Connor, and Bill Foley; John
Barbieri, Chuck Kitzmiller, Fred Espenshied, Wally Swords, and
County Commissioner and club member Chris Cdzacovsky
The 2010-2011 president of the Fort Pierce club is
Johnathan Ferguson. Jim O’Connor is Vice President and 2011 Chili Chair, and Dan Kurek is the
Treasurer/Secretary. Next year’s 29th Annual
Cook-Off, to be held July 16, 2011, is already in
the planning stages. Its theme is “Hollywood”.
Contact the Cook-Off Hotline at 772-828-2234 or
chilichairman@ftpierceexchangeclub.com.
The Chili Chicks headlined the entertainment;
their performance can be seen at http://www.you
tube.com/watch?v=i8xqYUWMq-U. Other entertainment included the award-winning Boys &
Girls Club Ken Pruitt Unit Band, The Critters with
Johnathan Ferguson and Larry Clancy take a break to
take a look at the crowd at the Chili Cook-Off.
National Exchange Convention Photos
More than 3,000 people came to Fenn Center
to enjoy the 28th Annual Chili Cook-Off.
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Florida Exchangite
Photos by Jim “Woody” Woods, shown on pages 1,2,and 4,
were taken at the National Exchange Club Convention.
These pictures, and many more, may be seen and purchased
at http://woody.fototime.com or by following the link to
Convention photos at http://www.nationalexchangeclub.org/
convention/convention.htm.
Fall 2010
CLUB NEWS
Exchange Club of
South Brevard
South Brevard club members helped the Yellow
Umbrella Child Abuse Prevention Center celebrate
the grand opening of its second full service office
located in Rockledge on September 16. The club
is a long-time supporter of the agency. District
President Eric Menger installed Brandon McGuire
as the new president of the club; Division Director
Diana Walker was a special guest at the installation held September 10.
Past President Beth Courtney, Yellow Umbrella Executive Director
Terri Mermis, and President Brandon McGuire
at the grand opening of Yellow Umbrella’s new Rockledge facility
Mike Natale, Rookie of the Year; Rick Giteles and
Steve McElveen - BWO Kids’ Day; and Kathy
Falzone, Youth Awards.
Beth Courtney, Past President of the South Brevard club and
the Yellow Umbrella Board of Directors at the opening
Sebastian Exchange Club
A great time was had by all who attended the
Installation Dinner held on June 26 at The Yellow
Dog Café. Beautiful weather for drinks on the
deck and the full moon rising were added attractions. Dinner in The Library was delectable. Rene
Charter members Henry Fischer, Jeff Slade, and
Rene VanDeVoorde received special recognition.
Membership Builders recognition was given to
Rene VanDeVoorde, Donna Keys, Paul Reeves,
and Jeff Slade for bringing in new members in the
past year. Membership anniversaries were recognized: Kathy Gutierrez (25 years), Warren Dill and
Skip Gray (20 years), Karen McElveen, Steve
McElveen, and Kathy Falzone (5 years). Diana
Walker, Division 7 Director, conducted the installation of new officers.
The Sebastian Club donated $3,500 to Yellow
Umbrella at its September 16 grand opening. It
presented three Sebastian Exchange Scholarships
and the Perez and Associates Scholarship to Sebastian River High School graduate. Exchangites
from the Fellsmere Exchange Club and the Exchange Club of South Brevard joined Sebastian at
a festive social, enjoying Bluegrass Night at
Marsh Landing in Fellsmere September 30.
Sebastian Exchangites Marilyn Waldis, Karen McElveen, and Tanya
Webb presented a $3,500 check to Executive Director Terri Mermis
(second from left) and Brenda Abbate (right) of Yellow Umbrella.
VanDeVoorde served as Master of Ceremonies,
and outgoing president Marilyn Waldis presented
the Appreciation and Awards. Recipients were
Karen McElveen, Most Valuable Player; Tony
Donini, Unsung Hero; Tanya Webb, President’s
Right Hand; Rick Giteles, President’s Left Hand;
Fall 2010
New officers of Sebastian Exchange Club include Tony Donini,
Karen McElveen, Warren Dill, Margie Duffell, Kathy Falzone,
Rene VanDeVoorde, Tanya Webb, and Marilyn Waldis.
Florida Exchangite
7
CLUB NEWS
Seminole Business Masters
Exchange Club
Jacksonville President Dave Ledbetter congratulates
club member Hal Lynch on his eightieth birthday.
Exchange Club of Jacksonville
Dave Ledbetter, President; Kim Klipsch, Vice
President; Amanda Rolfe, Secretary; Mollie Rolfe,
Treasurer; and Adam Rowe, Past President. Oneyear terms on the Board are held by Glenn Wright,
Doyle Varnes, and Lisa DiSalle Sullivan; Larry
Rolfe, Albert Marchant, and Doug Klippel will
serve two-year terms.
Rick Costner
Steve D. Rawlins, Sr.
The club welcomed three new members this summer: Rob Drum, Rick Costner, and Steve D. Rawlins, Sr. Members are busy planning their first Fish
Fry that will be held October 23 at Grace Lutheran
Church. They are collecting manufacturers’ coupons for Military Families; Mollie Rolfe chairs
this project. The Exchange Club donated $3,575 to
the Exchange Club Family Center from its Flag
Project. In this venture, members raised money by
placing American flags in homeowners’ yards.
The Exchange Club donated $3,575 earned from its
Flag Project to the Exchange Club Family Center.
8
Florida Exchangite
Carl Clayton is the new president of the Seminole
Business Masters Exchange Club. Other officers
installed include Bill Hamm, President-Elect;
Rachel Jordan, Secretary and Past President; and
Bob Ieva, Treasurer. Thom Barnhorn, Jerry Beitz,
Pat Ramsburg, and Tori Stein will serve two-year
terms, and Dean Gunter, Judy Miller, and Peggy
Watrous will hold one-year terms as Directors.
Two members attended the 11th Annual Cooking
for Kids benefit in St. Petersburg on September
10. The club is planning a membership drive, tentatively scheduled for November 4.
The Exchange Covenant of Service
Accepting the divine privilege of single and collective responsibility as life’s noblest gift, I covenant
with my fellow Exchangites:
To consecrate my best energies to the uplifting of
Social, Religious, Political, and Business ideals;
To discharge the debt I owe to those of high and
low estate who have served and sacrificed that the
heritage of American citizenship might be mine;
To honor and respect law, to serve my fellowmen,
and to uphold the ideals And institutions of my
Country;
To implant the life-giving, society-building spirit of
Service and Comradeship in my social and business
relationships;
To serve in Unity with those seeking better conditions, better understanding, and greater opportunities for all.
Exchange Club of
St. Petersburg
Christopher Kard is the newest member of the
Exchange Club of St. Petersburg. Club members
are busy planning their National Day of Service in
October and their Adoption Picnic to be held on
November 6.
Jim Buck, Program Chair, arranged weekly luncheons featuring local politicians, both Republican
and Democrat, for the members of the club. The
speakers have kept the Exchangites up-to-date
with information about themselves as well as
detailed explanations of the amendments that will
be on the ballot in November.
Fall 2010
CLUB NEWS
Exchange Club of Indian River
Exchange Club of Indian River presented the
Proudly We Hail award to Greene River Packing
Inc. of Vero Beach on June 16. The American flag
that flies over their packing company on US 1 is
visible from one mile away. Andrew Molloy
chairs the committee.
Exchangite of the Year Jenny Frederick and
2009-2010 President Ed Kay
President Andrew Molloy congratulates Proudly We Hail winner Mike
Mercatell, Greene River Packing operations manager
R.J. and Valerie MacMillan opened their home to
fellow Exchangites on June 30 to celebrate the
Fifth Wednesday. Wednesday's are the usual
luncheon meeting days for the club but whenever
it falls on a 5th Wednesday, a night time event
including spouses and guests is celebrated. Thanks
to Jenny Frederick, there was enough for all to eat
and drink. A few attempts at Karaoke, camaraderie
among members,. and a great time was had on a
beautiful summer night in Florida.
Indian River at the club’s annual banquet June 11.
Other officers include President-Elect R.J. MacMillan, Secretary Nancy Gollnick, and Treasurer
Joan Barcus. New members of the board of directors are Melinda Branand and Michele Knight. Tia
Beinhower, Aaron Bowles, Bill Depp, and Robert
Poore will continue serving on the board with the
immediate past president, Ed Kay.
Jenny Frederick is the club’s 2010 Exchangite of
the Year. She was honored for her ongoing accomplishments and excellent service as a board member and secretary, chair of social events and foundation grant committees, and active participation
as a volunteer for activities and member of multiple club committees.
Andrew Molloy has shared a scholarship presentation ceremony with fellow Exchangites the past
few years that brings to the forefront what funds
for child abuse prevention can achieve. The scholarships, presented on August 11 to six collegebound students from Youth Guidance, honor his
late wife, Carol Molloy. Each spoke about how
much Youth Guidance has meant. The Molloys’
daughter, Carey Molloy Hodge, and family members of the scholarship winners also took part in
the presentation.
Nancy Gollnick and Tia Beinhower show off their Karaoke talents.
Exchange Club of Indian River Foundation supported the 33rd Annual Youth Guidance Tropical
Night Luau on June 5 with a $2,000 sponsorship
for summer camp scholarships. The Youth Guidance Mentoring & Activities Program of Indian
River County is one of a dozen children’s charities
the Exchange Club Foundation supports.
Florida District President Eric Menger installed
Andrew Molloy as president of Exchange Club of
Fall 2010
Five of the six Molloy Scholarship winners and their moms
Florida Exchangite
9
CLUB NEWS
Club President Robert Paugh and District President Eric Menger
with Holly Mantle, Florida’s only 2010 Distinguished Club President
Robert Paugh presented the Freedom Shrine to Robin Polski,
County Commissioner Bob Solari, and Mayor Kevin Sawnick.
Treasure Coast Exchangites at the Installation Banquet on June 22
Chef Paugh (in apron) with Danielle Reuter of Healthy Start Coalition
Marc Imbert-Brown of Wabasso School and Georgia Irish
Exchange Club of the Treasure Coast
The Treasure Coast club has a lot to celebrate.
Holly Mantle was Florida’s only club president to
win the Distinguished Club President award at the
National Convention, and the club was one of
only two in the District to earn the Big “E”.
The club has been busy this summer with special
events. On June 4 members traveled to Wabasso
School to present a $500 check to the school’s
Student Needs Fund that provides personal items
for needy students. Georgia Irish presented Marc
Imbert-Brown with Exchange Club’s Student of
the Year Achievement Award. The Club’s Installation Banquet was held June 22. Mike Lue, Roger
Walker, Justin Hotaling, and Robert Paugh have
installed the club's newest Freedom Shrine in the
downtown Vero Beach Post office; the Shrine was
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Florida Exchangite
dedicated on July 8.
On September 18 members participated in the Second Annual Kids and Cars Safety Day at Dyer
Chevrolet in Vero Beach. The club cosponsored
the Day with the county’s Healthy State Coalition
and Sheriff’s Department and provided refreshments. Certified safety inspectors checked child
car seats, and sheriff's office staff offered a free
fingerprint and identification service.
August and September activities included collecting items for the Santa for Seniors project. Members will donate either twenty dollars or twenty
pounds of food for the Harvest Food and Outreach
Center in October. The club enjoyed a Family Day
Picnic and Pool Party at the Sebastian River
Landing Club on September 26.
Fall 2010
CLUB NEWS
Ribfest® 2010
Hardy W. Bryan
The trash was being picked up, the stage was coming down, and the echoes of the booming music
had subsided on the 16th of November 2009, the
day after Ribfest® ended. Planning began for Ribfest 2010 the same day.
Little did the Club know that at this year’s National Convention, the Northeast St. Pete Exchange
Club would be honored with the award of the National Best Fundraiser. Why? After all, we had
been in the Ribfest business for 21 years, and
while we have expanded as we grew, Ribfest 2009
was not all that different than the others. Maybe it
was recognized for this reason: In 2006, the net
proceeds were about $260,000, the highest amount
of charity money we ever raised. We thought it
would be difficult to better the following years.
And in 2007, as the economy started its nosedive,
the profits dropped to about $240,000, still good
but short of the record. The 2008 Ribfest dipped
even lower to $220,000. Still, a tidy bit of change!
This Year’s Ribfest to Be Even Better!
Not daunted, the band coordinator, Co-Chair Tom
Whiteman, continued booking bands. In the early
years, bands tended to hold off committing until a
month before the event, hoping for a better gig
somewhere else. But as we were able to pay higher amounts to attract better-known bands, and as
our reputation as a premiere event grew, booking,
while still a challenge for Tom, was accomplished
much earlier in the process. This allowed the advertising to kick off earlier too as we knew what
bands were going to be performing.
The band lineup for 2009 was the best ever. As
Ribfest began, we had a rather dismal Friday
crowd, causing some Club members to worry
about what the rest of the weekend was going to
produce. After all, the twenty or so charities sup(continued on next page)
Fall 2010
Theresa Putnam, Mark Dayton, Kathy Mize, Ken Leynse,
and Dianne Cohrs attended Cooking for Kids
Northeast Exchange Club of
St. Petersburg
Northeast St. Pete held its 5th Annual Classic
Rock ’n Roll Galactic Style “Strike Out Child
Abuse” Bowl-A-Thon August 14. Twenty-five
teams competed to benefit Suncoast Center and
Help a Child of St. Petersburg. Thirty-two club
members and guests attended Suncoast’s 11th
Annual Cooking for Kids September 10. More
than 250 guests enjoyed the New Orleans theme,
Dixieland band, food by a dozen restaurants, and
silent and live auctions. Camping with Cameron is
October 9. Recent social events included Devil
Rays games and annual Boating Day gala.
2010-2011 officers include Mark Dayton, President; Cameron Bernard, President-Elect; Dianne
Cohrs, Vice President; Carol Everson, Secretary;
John Ullrich, Treasurer; Dave Salverson, Club
CFO, and Ken Haas, Past President. Directors Bill
Dudley, Jr., Tellie Hall, Julie Langevin, and Jerry
White will serve one-year and Chris Burke, Barbara Doyle, Amanda Gilroy, and Larry Sweeney
two-year terms. On July 6 members voted to add
four nonvoting officers to the Board of Directors
and elected Tom Whiteman, Gail Clark, Chris
Burke, and David Hood to fill these positions.
Dianne Cohrs and Theresa Putnam (back row); Debbie Dayton,
Mark Dayton, Kathy Mize, and Ken Haas at the NEC Convention
Florida Exchangite
11
CLUB NEWS
Ribfest® 2010, continued
ported by the Club depend on us for a major portion of their annual budgets. But Saturday and
Sunday drew record crowds. Vendors sold out of
ribs and searched the Tampa Bay area for more.
Beer was sold at a rate of more than one cup per
second! Soda sold out too. The Fire Department
started talking about closing the gates for crowd
control. Attendees danced to the band music, having a grand time. And when it ended, and the
expenses deducted from the gross proceeds, there
remained for our charities a whopping, $420,000!
What a blessing for the groups we support! These
charities receive funds from several sources, but
some of those sources are not as able to contribute
as before, due to the economy. We were in a position to cover some of the shortfall. These charities
include All Children’s Hospital and our national
project, the prevention of child abuse. After allocations are planned for these major charities, the
Board reviews requests from others, supporting
some and reluctantly, turning down some.
The 2010 Ribfest will be held the weekend after
Veterans Day, Friday, November 12, through
Sunday, November 14. To learn names of bands
and when they will perform, go to http://www.
Ribfest.org. On the left side, click on “BandsShows,” then on “Transitions Optical Stage”. As
always, we stand prepared to accommodate delegations from other Exchange Clubs at our event if
they are exploring the possibility of conducting a
similar event in their area. And, of course, we also
welcome everyone to come and join us!
Ribfest 2010 will be held at Vinoy Park, 701 Bayshore Drive NE, St. Petersburg; gates open each
day at 11:00 am. Purchase tickets in advance for
$10 each at Rally Food Stores, the official ticket
outlet, or online for an additional $1.50 service
charge each. Tickets cost $15 each at the gate on
the day of the show with no returns, no refunds,
no re-entry into the park.
Ribfest® 2009 Scenes
“Rockin’ Ribs Helping Kids”
More than $3.2 million dollars raised for local charities!
12
John Messal enjoyed the ribs.
So did Eric Menger!
NE St. Pete Exchangites at the RibFest Fence Down party
View of the crowd
Florida Exchangite
Fall 2010
CLUB NEWS
Happy Birthday, Exchange Clubs!
This year Exchange Clubs across the country are
celebrating Exchange’s 100th anniversary with
special incentives for membership growth. Clubs
and members can participate in several ways:
• Every new club built during the 2010-2011 year
will be recognized as a Centennial Club.
• Every club that sponsors a new club will be recognized as a Centennial Sponsor Club.
• National President Margie Miller will present a
special edition Lighthouse pin to any member who
recruits three members during the year.
• Any member who recruits ten members for the
year will be recognized as a Centurion Member.
Centennial Clubs will receive a special podium
banner and all Centennial Clubs and individuals
will receive special recognition at the 2011
National Convention. Help the Florida District
continue its tradition of growth by taking part.
Exchange Club of the Emerald Coast
The club presented Ken Hair, Executive Director
of Children In Crisis, Inc. in Fort Walton Beach,
with a $1,000 check to purchase a television for
its newly-opened Sue Sue’s Cottage July 1. CIC
operates The Children’s Neighborhood, a residential facility of group foster homes that also provides emergency shelter to young children. Regional Vice President Paul McShane inducted Ken
into membership on September 15.
These busy Exchangites attended CIC’s Family
Day picnic on August 11. Karen Helms, Letitia
Ittig, Shannon Sapp, Ron (and Robin) Garriga,
and Mary Poulsen handed out 350 American flags
at the Freedom Rally August 21, despite the threat
of rain; members again handed out flags on Patriot
Day, September 10. The next day they participated
in the CIC Workday in the morning and Exchange
Family Day in the afternoon.
Paul "Irish" McShane, Nicholas Barlotta, Ken Hair, and Karen Helms
Club members celebrate the Fourth of July.
Karen Helms installs Bill Moomaw, Janet Moomaw, Mike
Jimmerson, Nicholas Barlotta, Letitia Ittig, and Ron Garriga.
Emerald Coast Exchangites at the
Children in Crisis Family Day picnic on August 11
Fall 2010
Florida Exchangite
13
CLUB NEWS
Exchangites distributed American flags at home, at special events, and in far-off places this Fourth of July.
Karen Helms celebrated the Fourth of July in Ketchikan, Alaska.
Mary and Stan Polson gave out flags on a New York City boat tour.
Paul McShane and friends in Niceville
Michael L. Jimmerson on the beach near Crab Island
14
Florida Exchangite
Fall 2010
CLUB NEWS
Exchange Club of Crestview
Sharlene Cox inducts Cheri Pittman September 9 as
Carolyn Knudsen and Bob Printy look on.
David Cadle, July’s new members Rae Schwartz and
Linda Parker, Shirley Cadle, and Sharlene Cox
New member Amirah Hall
2010 Proudly We Hail Award
Rich Girardin
Club Treasurer Rich Girardin is editor of Crestview’s new bulletin, The Hub City Courier. Volume 1, Issue 1, was published July 10. This club
has lots of news plus four new members, Amirah
Hall, Cheri Pittman, Rae Schwartz, and Linda Parker, since July 1. Officers from Emerald Coast,
Niceville, and Crestview clubs met for club officer
training at Paul and Elizabeth McShanes’ home
July 17. The Crestview News recently published
two articles with photos about the club by Publicity Chair Linda Parker.
On August 12 the club presented its 2010 Proudly
We Hail award to Wesleyan Child Care Center for
their display of the American flag. In each of the
past three years, the Wesleyan Center’s children
have created a flag with the red stripes made out
of their handprints as an art project to commemorate the Fourth of July. When an Eglin Air Force
Fall 2010
Base colonel heard about the flag the first year, he
asked if he could take it to Iraq. Coincidentally, it
was displayed in the unit where one of the children’s fathers was deployed. The club also presented a $50 check to Foster Families of America
at this meeting; they earned the money selling hot
dogs at Family Fun Day in June.
Carolyn Knudsen, her husband Jim, Cheri Pittman, and Rae Schwartz volunteered at the 3rd Annual Masonic District No Child Without Healthcare Fair July 31. Club president Sharlene Cox
was an event organizer; Youth Committee chair,
Mayor David Cadle, proclaimed the day “No
Child Without Healthcare Fair Day”. Members
sold water and soft drinks at the Music and Art
extravaganza August 13 and handed out American
flags August 21 at the Freedom Rally. They are
making plans to participate in the Fall Festival.
Florida Exchangite
15
CLUB NEWS
Did You Know?
Stuff You Can Get for Free
Jack Brooks and Linda Culliton at the Fourth of July party
Exchange Club of Niceville
Niceville Exchangites celebrated the Fourth of July by distributing flags. then, they threw their annual Fourth of July party at Twin Cities Pavilion
Retirement Homes. They met in Destin at McGuire’s Irish Pub for dinner, then saw Eat, Love,
Pray August 28 for “Dinner and a Movie” night.
Niceville, Crestview, and Emerald Coast, the Exchange Clubs of the Emerald Coast, will hold the
13th Annual Child Abuse Prevention Golf Tournament, on Friday, October 29, at Fort Walton Beach
Golf Course. They are seeking golfers, auction
giveaways, and sponsors. Team Sponsorships cost
$300 each for a hole sponsorship with sign and a
four-person team, and Club Sponsors will be hole
sponsors with a sign for $100. Donations and gifts
and larger sponsorships are welcome. Sponsors
will be recognized at the Tournament and in newspaper advertising. All proceeds and 100% of all
donations will support the Exchange Club children’s programs in Okaloosa and Walton Counties.
The entry fee is $55 per player for the Florida 4Ball Scramble. Sign-in is at 11:00 am; the Shot
Gun Start is at noon. Each team’s combined handicap must be at least 50. Individual entrants will be
assigned to a team by handicap in A, B, C, and D
player format. Contact Paul McShane at 850-6788680 or Jack Brooks at 850-897-2252 for details.
Members are looking ahead to their Veterans Day
One Nation Under God Prayer Breakfast, co-hosted with AmVets Post 78, Valparaiso. This year’s
speaker is Ret. Col. Ed Hubbard; tickets are $3
each. Carol Mullins-Hernandez chairs this event.
Members will give Thanksgiving and Christmas
baskets to deserving families.
16
Florida Exchangite
Publications: You can receive e-newsletters and
serial publications from National Exchange Club
in your emailbox. To subscribe, go to http://www.
nationalexchangeclub.org, select “Sign up for free
e-newsletters” from the left menu, and enter your
email address. With just the click of a mouse,
you’re subscribed! According to Exchange Today
editor, Peverly Hormann, current publications
include Exchange Today and Currents. E-newsletters include FYI, President’s Minutes, e-xchange,
and Foundation Focus.
News: Follow the news of all Exchange Clubs across the country by creating a Google Alert. Sign
up at http://www.google.com/alerts to get the latest
news. Choose how many alerts you want and how
frequently you want to receive them. The choices
are up to 20 or up to 50 results as-it-happens, once
a day, or once a week.
Art: Downloadable Exchange Club art is available
at http://www.nationalexchangeclub.org/memberarea/exchangeart/exchangeart.htm. Be sure to
read the policy statement on the use of Exchange
name and logo and “The Proper Way to Use Your
National Exchange Club Logo” before downloading and using Exchange's logo!
Logo: What is the difference between the logo
and the emblem? According to the NEC Style
Guide, the Exchange logo is composed of the emblem, the large word “Exchange”, smaller upper
case “The National Exchange Club” to the right of
the emblem, and a registration mark. This logo
should not be altered or used in any way except as
prescribed in the Style Guide. “The National
Exchange Club” can be personalized for your
Exchange club or its foundation. All you need to
do is send a request to the Communications Department at commun@nationalexchangeclub.org.
The complete Style Guide can be found at http://
www.nationalexchangeclub.org/memberarea/publications/Style%20Guide/Style%20Guide.pdf
Website News: National’s website is being revamped. Watch for changes the next few months!
Fall 2010
CLUB NEWS
The Exchange Club of
Jacksonville Beaches
Nine members cooked 1,000+ hot dogs for more
than 1,200 children and parents who came to a local church for back packs, school supplies, school
physical and eye exams, clothing, haircuts, and
Club member Lyle Reimann (center) with
Carol and Bill Womble and their $1,000+ surfboard
Gerald Dowless, Joe Abrass, contractor John Pierson, Tim Jenkins
donations food. Beaches Emergency Assistance
Ministry (BEAM), Jacksonville Beaches Exchangites, and many other local clubs and donors sponsored the August 14 Back to School event.
Chefs Bob Hicks, Tom Boyd,
Ken Frick, and Bill Enright
John Pierson and Joe
Abrass and Freedom Shrine
The Club installed a Freedom Shrine on August 24
at the Pablo Creek Regional Branch of Jacksonville Public Library. The installation is suspended
Club in Atlantic Beach. The live and silent auctions featured more than 100 items, including an
autographed Jimmy Buffet surfboard, a kayak, bicycles, a VIP train trip for two to New York City,
a flat screen TV, and an island cruise. The ticket
price of $100 for two included Roulette, Blackjack, a chance to win $1,000, and good food and
drink. Robbie Rose was master of ceremonies of
this successful fundraiser that raised more than
$27,500 for the Exchange Club’s Children’'s
Foundation. District President Eric and Kelly
Menger were special guests.
During the Bash, President Jack Morison presented The Book of Golden Deeds award to former
member Bob Tipton. He was honored for his longtime volunteer work and contributions to the community. Jack also presented club member Retired
Admiral Tim Jenkins with Jacksonville Beaches’
Proudly We Hail award for patriotism.
Bob Hicks, Joe Abrass, Tom Chao grilling at BEAM event
from the ceiling. Members helped Jacksonville
Beach Elementary School PTA spread mulch on
their playground and grounds September 25.
The Club held its Annual Beachcombers Bash
starring Caribbean Chillers, a Jimmy Buffet tribute band, September 17 at Selva Marina Country
Fall 2010
2010 Proudly We Hail winner and Freedom Shrine veteran
Tim Jenkins with four-time Exchangite of the Year and
2010 Book of Golden Deeds winner Bob Tipton
Florida Exchangite
17
CLUB NEWS
list of ideas is recorded, each event is discussed,
then accepted or rejected. Those events selected
will have a chair and perhaps a co-chair assigned
on a volunteer basis. Usually, the program is
scheduled in a particular month, but it is up to the
chairs to establish the exact date.
Hardy Bryan and his wife Donna Bryan
Fun, Fun, Fun
’Til Her Daddy Takes the T-Bird Away
by Hardy W. Bryan
NORTHEAST ST. PETE’S SOCIAL PROGRAM
This popular Beach Boy’s song could be the theme
for Northeast St. Petersburg Exchange Club, except that there is no T-Bird. But, as you will see,
we do have a bus party that loads more fun than a
T-Bird. The primary reason for this and all parties
on our social calendar is “Fun, Fun!”
A club’s social activities are too often addressed
by the incoming leadership at the bottom of the
list of duties that need to be accomplished. As a
result of this low priority, the better leaders have
already been tasked and a member may be pressured to be listed as chair of the social committee.
This usually leads to a weak effort and a failed
social program. Not so with the Northeast
Exchange Club of St. Petersburg. Social planning
ranks near the top of the agenda. 2009-2010 Club
President Kenneth Haas, 2010-2011 President
Mark Dayton, and all past club presidents clearly
established the importance of social activities
based on two philosophies, “We work hard, and
we play hard” and “Fun! Fun! Fun!”
Planning: Top leadership talent takes charge of
the social committee with the direction and goal
that there will be at least one social event per
month. Co-Chairs Diane Cohrs and Ken Moody
call a meeting of the Social Planning Committee
in May. Who serves on the committee? Every
member of the club is invited, and the meeting is
held at a local sports bar and restaurant. The meeting becomes a social event in itself as thirty to
forty members attend. A flip chart is set up, and
suggestions for events are listed. Once the long
18
Florida Exchangite
Some activities are so popular they are planned
every year. Some tie into our major fundraiser, the
Ribfest. Some evolved from fundraisers themselves, and some are tried and not scheduled again. Each year, several new socials are tried.
Events: Events connected to the Ribfest include
the “Fence Up” dinner, held the evening before
Ribfest, when club members set up the park and
erect the fencing. After the job is completed, the
members sit down to a complete meal; they also
meet the national president, who usually attends
Ribfest. A social Happy Hour is also held after
some of the Ribfest planning meetings.
The club also holds a variety of social events not
connected to the Ribfest. One, a golf tournament,
started out as a fundraiser. Because it competed
with other similar events in the community, it
morphed into a social event. Now a golf weekend
(or one-day event), it is held at the golf course
home of a member, complete with a BBQ dinner.
Another is the annual Bowling Tournament held in
August. The purpose of the event is to raise funds
for the Prevention of Child Abuse, but it is conducted with a “Fun! Fun!” party atmosphere.
One of the most popular events is Mystery Night,
which is secretly planned by a committee of three
or four members. Those who sign up to attend
board a bus (not exactly a T-Bird!) and head to
places unknown. Beverages, snacks, and games
help while away the bus ride as attendees make a
game out of guessing where they are headed. The
bus usually makes three or four stops along he
way for a tour of attractions, a cocktail party, a
special meal, and entertainment of some nature.
Other socials include a weekly bowling league and
its Bowl-A-Thon fundraiser, a picnic dinner held
before a night parade (and GiveAKidAFlagToWave), and the Kentucky Derby Party. The
Derby Party is held at a member’s house; where
(continued on page 21)
Fall 2010
PEOPLE IN THE NEWS
Jim Brown
Jim Brown was selected for a two-year term to
represent past national presidents on the National
Exchange Club Foundation’s Board of Trustees at
its July 24 meeting at the NEC Convention. Jim
has been a member of the St. Petersburg Exchange
Club since 1964, serving as its president in 1985.
Bill and Dina “exchanging” vows
A Happy “Exchange” of Vows
Kay and Jim Brown
He was president of the Florida District in 1981,
of National Exchange Club in 1989-1990, and of
the National CAP Foundation in 1992-1993. He
and his wife Kay helped start the Exchange Center
of the Suncoast in 1983, and he served as its
Charter President.
At 10:00 am on Wednesday, September 1, a bright
and sunny day in Ellenton, Florida, Col. Bill MacArthur and Dina Gabriele of Arkhangelsk, Russia,
boarded a boat on the Manatee River and exchanged vows. This was a true “Exchange” wedding ceremony as all five people involved are
Dina and Bill MacArthur celebrating
Jon Rose, Bob Schlitt, Ed Kay, and Jeff Smith
Walk a Mile in Her Shoes®
Bob Schlitt, past president of Exchange Club of
Indian River, is leading a team of five Exchangites
in the Walk a Mile in Her Shoes® walk on October 23. Other club members participating in custom-made red pumps with 4" stiletto heels are Ed
Kay, Jon Rose, Jeff Smith, and Bill Depp. Other
members of the club will serve as cheerleaders.
Bob is secretary of the SafeSpace Board of Directors and its Resource Development committee
chair. The event, held in honor of October as
Domestic Violence Awareness Month, will benefit
SafeSpace shelters on the Treasure Coast. See
http://www.walkamileinhershoes.org/ for details.
Fall 2010
members of Exchange. Bill is a member of the
Sarasota Business Exchange Club; Dina is a member of the Dinner Exchange Club of Manasota.
Joanne Hibbs, the Justice of the Peace, and Lois
Domanico, the Manatee River Boat Tours owner,
are members of the Manatee River Exchange
Club, and the professional photographer, Susan
Francy, is a member of the Exchange Club of
Manasota East. Bill was Florida District President
1988-89, and Joanne was the Family Partnership
Board President for the past five years.
Lois Domanico, Dina, Bill, and Joanne Hibbs
Florida Exchangite
19
CLUB NEWS
Andrew Molloy, Cheryl Conley, and R.J. MacMillan
Meet Cheryl Conley
2011 Florida Department of Education/
Macy’s Teacher of the Year
Speech Given to Exchange Club of Indian River
September 8, 2010
Hello. My name is Cheryl Conley, and in July I
was named the 2011 Florida Department of Education/Macy’s Teacher of the Year. Thank you for
having me here today. This year is going to be full
of new adventures, and my perspective on this
year comes from my daughter, Brooke. Brooke is
in the first grade, and when I won Teacher of the
Year, Brooke could tell that something was bothering me. “What’s wrong?” she asked.
“Nothing,” I said. But she knew better. “Really,
Mom, what’s wrong?” she asked once more.
“Well,” I began, “I’m just hoping I’ll do a good
job, and I’m going to miss my 22 students.”
“That’s ok, Mom,” my dear child stated. “You
might not have 22 students anymore, but now you
have a whole state FULL of students.” Right then,
something clicked. She was right. Then, she continued, “Mom, you know, you shouldn’t be worried about how you will do this year. The person
you should really worry about is me.”
“What are you talking about, Brooke?” I asked,
suddenly quite confused.
“Well, I’m not sure that I’m ready for the first
grade,” she worried.
“Oh, Brooke…you will do great in first grade.
First grade is all about making new friends, reading new books, and coloring new pictures,” I said,
trying my best to comfort her.
“That is EXACTLY what I’m talking about…coloring! In kindergarten, no one cared if I colored
outside of the lines,” she said emphatically. Boom!
20
Florida Exchangite
It felt like a ton of bricks had hit me. An ah-ha
moment to the tenth degree. Right then, Brooke
and I made an agreement that we would both
make this year about making new friends, reading
new books, and coloring new pictures… and we
promised each other that every now and then we
would color outside the lines. You know, Brooke
is not unique in that aspect. All first graders have
a unique perspective on life. If you ever get a
chance, spend some time with a few of them.
The reason I am here today is to say thank you.
On behalf of all of the wonderful teachers and students who call the great state of Florida home, I
would like to say “Thank you to you… the Exchange Club of Indian River County.” Your service programs make a difference in the lives of our
community’s children. You provide fun for our
community, a reason to go fishing with our families, honors to outstanding hardworking students,
and accolades for law enforcement officers, firefighters, and paramedics. Thank you for promoting Americanism, community service, youth activities, and most importantly, for working tirelessly
for prevention of child abuse. Your club makes our
community a better place to live for me, for my
children, and for my students.
My life story is not that different than the children
your club is helping. I grew up in an unhappy
home. My parents worked hard, and we barely got
by. No one on either side of my family had gone
to college. There were issues with alcohol and
with anger. But I was helped by a special teacher.
Mrs. Dana Morrow saw potential in me. She
helped me hold my head high when, at times, my
world felt like it was crashing in all around me.
She helped me get my life into perspective and
dream of college and of a future away from that
small Texas town.
I was saved by a mentor… a teacher. Now, I am a
teacher. But, you are also a teacher. Not all teachers have taken an education course or written a
lesson plan. A teacher can be a parent instilling
virtues in their children. They can be a big brother
or a big sister encouraging their siblings to seize
an opportunity or to try something new. A teacher
can be a neighbor, a co-worker, or a friend. A
(continued on page 21)
Fall 2010
CLUB NEWS
Meet Cheryl Conley
(continued from page 20)
teacher can be a mentor, encouraging young children who are struggling with their present conditions to dream, to believe, and to achieve.
As parents, mentors, and teachers, we must believe in children. We must believe in their ingenuity. We must believe in their imaginations and believe in their curiosity. We must believe that each
of them has the limitless power to become whatever they wish to become. We must see ourselves
in them... and we must see the future in them.
Together, we possess the power to influence our
nation, and we carry the responsibility to nurture
and guide our country’s most valuable resource our children. Together we can help children find
their passions and hidden talents. We can guide
them to reach their full potential. I would like to
encourage each of you to aim to make a difference
in the life of every child you encounter, every
chance you get, every day. Volunteer at a school or
maybe mentor a child in need. Each child has value. They deserve to have an authentic connection
with the adults in their lives, and they deserve the
opportunities to make their dreams come true.
Fun, Fun, Fun
(continued from page 20)
members tune into the race on a big-screen TV
and enjoy a fancy hat contest, mint juleps, food,
cigars, and port wine. One year, when the club donated money to build a playground and revamp a
city park, now known as Exchange Club of Northeast St. Petersburg Park, members served up hamburgers and hot dogs and watched a family-oriented movie on a large screen television.
A new event has been held a couple of times at
Ken Moody’s waterfront home. Held in April, a
local outdoors sports equipment store that specializes in hunting, fishing, camping, and snow skiing
(believe it or not!) and has a swimming pool for
scuba lessons provides one- and two-person kayaks and lessons. Some members paddle to a nearby nature park while other prepare a BBQ meal.
In addition to these events, the following are already scheduled for this club year: Devil Rays
baseball games, a Halloween Party, and a ChristFall 2010
Cheryl Conley, 2011 Florida Teacher of the Year
mas party and a Christmas luncheon complete
with gifts, both featuring Santa Claus. Other
events include the annual installation banquet, a
pool party, three more Happy Hours, the social
planning meeting for the next year, and others we
have done in the past, such as a Buccaneer tailgate
party, circus, progressive dinner, smokers, beach
party, boat party, summer picnic, and any other
idea that sounds like Fun! Fun!
The cost of these events is covered from two sources: Part of the dues set aside for social events,
and by charging attendees. When fees are necessary, the cost is announced before the sign-up, and
then added to the member’s next club bill. Members sign up either by signing a list passed around
at the weekly meetings or online. Spouses, significant others, and dates are always welcome.
This energetic program is viewed as vital to the
health of the club as it provides a wide variety of
activities, lets members get to know each other
better, and serves as a recruitment and retention
tool. All work and no play make for a dull club. It
can’t be dull when you are having Fun! Fun!
About the Author
Hardy W. Bryan is a member of the Northeast Exchange
Club of St. Petersburg. He is a regular contributor to
Exchange Today magazine. It is his hope that other clubs
can benefit from the sharing of his club’s activities.
Photography 101
Everybody loves pictures! Three simple tips to ensure better photos and get them published:
• Avoid posing your subjects in front of a window.
• Get up close to your subject and focus.
• Turn off your camera’s date stamp!
For more tips: See “Photographic Excellence 101”
at http://www.nationalexchangeclub.org/memberarea/publications/pr/ExchangePhotography.pdf.
Florida Exchangite
21
CAP TRUST
Child Abuse Prevention
by Roy Thompson, Vice President, Child Abuse Prevention and
Trustee, Prevention of Child Abuse Trust
Florida District Exchange Clubs
Prevention of Child Abuse Trust: Q & A’s
The Florida District Exchange Clubs’ Prevention
of Child Abuse Trust is one of two 501(c)3 trusts
(the other is the District Scholarship Trust) set up
to operate under the direction of the District Board
of Directors. The mission of this Trust is to provide resources and support to the six Exchange
Centers for the Prevention of Child Abuse in Florida. This article highlights background information, answers questions concerning the Trust, and
reaffirms the District’s commitment to the National Project, the elimination of child abuse, and to
the strengthening of families.
Why Did the District Establish This Trust?
The Trust was originally established to provide
emergency grants and loans to the six Centers. Although Exchange Clubs throughout Florida raise
funds and volunteer support for the invaluable array of community services Centers provide, occasions occur when National and local funding do
not provide a sufficient safety net for financial
emergencies. Therefore, the District Trust was set
up to step in financially when needed. Two examples in recent years were a grant to a Center
whose building was destroyed by hurricanes in
2004 so it could rebuild and continue operations
and a 2008 grant and bridge loan to another Center that lost a major government grant. This funding allowed this Center to meet its payroll until it
could recover its financial footing.
Where Are Florida’s Exchange CAP Centers Located? Florida’s six Centers have headquarters in Bradenton, Fort Pierce, Jacksonville,
Lantana, Palm Bay, and St. Petersburg. Some have
satellite locations supporting neighboring counties.
The Centers are part of a network of more than
100 Exchange Centers throughout the country.
What Else Does the Trust Do? All Trust dollars are for the direct support of Florida Centers.
The following are a few examples of other ways
the Trust provides support:
program allows the Trust to sponsor or co-sponsor
an event or program for each Center every year.
This well-received program fosters greater interaction between Centers and local Exchange Clubs.
Recognition of Center Employees and
Volunteers. When polled about how the Trust
could better support the Centers, the Center Directors were unanimous in emphasizing the need
for stronger recognition of outstanding Center employees and volunteers. This resulted in the creation of the William A. Wodtke, Jr. Award that is
presented to an outstanding employee or volunteer
from each Center at the annual District Convention in May. This recognition award recognizes the
many unsung heroes from the Centers.
Publicity and Communication. The Trust promotes public awareness and support of Florida Exchange Center functions and programs. In addition, the Trust strives to strengthen involvement
and communication between Florida Exchange
Clubs and Centers.
How Does the Trust Raise Money? Principal
sources of funding are contributions from corporations, Florida Exchange Clubs, individuals, and
fundraisers held at the annual District Convention.
The Trust is careful not to compete with any Exchange Club fundraisers that directly support Exchange Centers in areas where those Clubs are located. The Trust fundraising supplements funds
available to support both Florida Centers and the
National Project of the Prevention of Child Abuse.
How Can I Receive More Information? Visit
the Florida District website (http://floridadistrictexchange.com) to view “Imagine a World Free
from Child Abuse.” Locations and contact information for Florida Exchange CAP Centers can be
found at “Exchange Centers for the Prevention of
Child Abuse.” For questions about the Trust’s mission, contact Roy Thompson, District Vice President for Prevention of Child Abuse, at jeanroy2 at
att.net or 772-453-331.
If you know of or suspect child abuse,
call 1-800-96-ABUSE
Help Save A Child Today!
Program Sponsorship. Its grant application
22
Florida Exchangite
Fall 2010
CAP CENTERS
Exchange Club Yellow Umbrella
Terri Mermis, Executive Director
Exchange Club Yellow Umbrella has provided services to the families of Brevard County for the
past 22 years. The CAP Center celebrated a duel
chamber ribbon cutting attended by nearly 200
people on September 16 for the opening of their
second office. Eric Menger, Florida District Exchange Clubs President, presented a check from
for $500, and Tonya Webb, President, presented a
$3,500 check from Exchange Club of Sebastian.
Space Coast Entrepreneurs donated $300. Community Educators Bank announced their sponsorship of “Make a Change with Exchange Change
Cup” project, and SeaCoast Bank will hold an
Apple Pie Bake-Off. The new location has opened
at a time to provide much-needed support to the
21,000 people who will be out of work in the area
with the closing of Kennedy Space Center.
Exchange Club Family Center
Prudence C. Williams, Program Director
The Exchange Club Family Center, founded by
the Exchange Clubs of Jacksonville and Jacksonville Beaches, offers the In-Home Parenting program to residents of Duval County. Prudence C.
Williams, LCSW is the Program Director of the
Parent Aide Program that also employs three contracted professionals. More than fifteen families
successfully completed this voluntary program of
intensive, long-term home visitation in the past six
months. The Center’s mission is to help parents
learn to provide safe, healthy, and nurturing home
environments in which their children may thrive,
focusing efforts on prevention and treatment.
TO DONATE
Family Center 904 306-9318
Yellow Umbrella 321-723-2927
South Brevard’s Beth Courtney and Brandon McGuire at opening
Yellow Umbrella’s full-service offices with dedicated staff and training centers include Palm Bay’s
Woodlake Office Park location in South Brevard,
the original location that opened in 2004 and,
more than an hour away, the new Rockledge office
in North Brevard’s Victorian Village. Both offices
support a staff of Parent Aides, Parenting Educators, and Anger Management Educators for Youth
and Adult needs and provide referral services
through a partnership with 211. In addition to educational services provided in homes and in group
settings, Yellow Umbrella stabilizes families with
food, clothing, and household goods and educates
families about Shaken Baby Syndrome, Car Seat
Safety, and Safe Sleeping. It also provides training
for social workers and guidance counselors and
internship opportunities for university students in
the area. For further information, visit the Center’s
website, http://www.yellowumbrella.org.
Fall 2010
According to Prudence, “The center is supported
by the Beaches and Downtown Exchange Clubs in
more ways than one; [they] have been a vital force
in ensuring the Center provides quality services.”
One Club sponsors an Annual Christmas Wish List
that provided needed and requested items last year
for approximately forty children. The Center is
planning a celebration with families and looking at
opportunities to grow the program. Its website is
http://www.exchangeclubfamilycenter.com.
Yellow Umbrella Board President and South Brevard Exchange
Secretary Frank Fortino and Executive Director Terri Mermis
Florida Exchangite
23
DISTRICT NEWS
Community Service
by Bill Schilling, Vice President, Community Service
Janell Johnson
Investing in America’s Future
by Janell J. Johnson, MPA, Vice President, Hartsook Companies
Campaign Update
Investing In America’s Future is committed to supporting Child Abuse Prevention, the national project of National Exchange Club (NEC). The first
phase of the campaign has four goals:
• Sustain Child Abuse Prevention Efforts through
Perpetual Endowment
• Establish Proactive Leadership Role in Contributing to the Prevention Field
• Evaluate and Research Programs and Impact
• Restore and Expand Network Resources
Where We’ve Been: In the fall of 2008 assessment showed we could raise $5.5 million in the
next three to five years for the prevention of child
abuse. The campaign was launched with four individuals posing a $1 million challenge: An additional $2 million must be raised by spring of 2011.
Where We Are: In the last 19 months, we’ve
raised just over $2.8 5million in cash, pledges, and
estate gifts from 42 individuals. Currently we have
$1,015,000 in outstanding solicitations from ten
individuals and two foundations.
Where We Are Going: Our goal is to surpass
the goal of raising $3 million by 10% by March
2011. This campaign will put Exchange on the
map as the premier service club and leader in this
effort to prevent child abuse. NEC is the only service organization in the country and world that has
this type of hands-on project, and this campaign
will reinforce this position for years to come.
How You Can Help: If you have interest in
learning more about the campaign, or if you know
someone who might, and want to get involved,
please contact Janell Johnson at 910-386-9513 or
jjohnson@hartsookcompanies.com.
24
Florida Exchangite
Now that Fall is here, you are probably thinking it
is the season of college and pro football. That is
true, but more importantly, it is the season of Exchange’s National Day of Service, this year on
Saturday, October 23. In each club president’s
packet of materials from National is a Community
Service Projects booklet. (Club presidents who
have not received their packets should contact
their Division Directors.) Many ideas in this booklet can be used for the National Day of Service or
as a community service project during the year.
Some projects done by clubs in this District during
last year’s Day of Service were a Kids’ Fishing
Tournament, Annual Foster Family Picnics, and
painting, repairing fences, and fixing doors for a
community organization.
Hopefully, all clubs in the Florida District will decide to participate in Exchange’s National Day of
Service. If you need any assistance, please contact
your Division Director. I will be working with the
Division Directors.
Youth
by Sue Jones, Vice President, Youth
Just think. There are three high school seniors
somewhere in the state who are excelling scholastically... they’re making time for some amazing
extracurricular and volunteer work... maybe
they’re succeeding beyond what most people
thought they ever could. They deserve the recognition of Exchange through the Youth of the Year
and ACE Award Programs.
How great would it be for your Exchange Club to
recognize those deserving young people? For
them, it would be a chance of a lifetime. For you
and your fellow Exchangites, it’s the chance to
celebrate and nurture some very deserving high
school seniors.
It starts by contacting and working with your area
high schools to promote the Youth of the Year and
ACE Award Programs. All the information and
program rules can be easily accessed through the
Florida District or National Exchange Club websites. If you have questions or need some advice,
you may also contact your Division Director.
Fall 2010
DISTRICT NEWS
Obituaries
Jeffrey Furst
Jeffrey Furst, 68, former member of Fort Pierce
Exchange Club, died July 5. According to Raymond Isenburg, “the passing of Jeff is a significant
loss to his wonderful family and the entire community. I have lost another loyal and true friend.
...Jeff had a profound impact on the establishment
and chartering of our club. The Fort Pierce Exchange Club was originally sponsored by the Exchange Club of Vero Beach. We struggled for several months during the latter part of 1971 and early 1972. One Thursday, Jeff Furst was introduced
to the club by Maurice Snyder. From that point on,
the club really developed. Jeff recruited several
members, and we were able to secure our charter.
Without the impetus that Jeff provided, I doubt the
Fort Pierce Exchange Club would exist today.
When our club committed to supporting the prevention of child abuse, Jeff stepped up again. In
partnership with former Exchange member Ed
Ellsworth, the duo secured a $50,000 start-up
grant to open the Center for the Prevention of
Child Abuse. ...It is important to recognize those
individuals who have truly made a difference. My
memories of Jeff will always be positive.”
With heavy hearts, St. Petersburg Exchange Club
announced the death of one of its finest members
on September 5. Her name was Odette Patterson,
and she was 95 years old. Upon the death of her
husband in 1989, Odette established the Charles
A. and Odette W. Patterson Charitable Trust to
provide scholarships to St. Petersburg police officers and firefighters and give assistance to victims
of crimes. It has provided more than $400,000 in
scholarships. Born in France to an American WWI
veteran father and French mother, she came to St.
Petersburg in 1941. She retired from banking in
1969, began her real estate career two years later,
and retired in 1988. She faithfully attended weekly
Exchange luncheon meetings and did volunteer
work at the St. Petersburg Police Department.
District Goals 2010-2011
Walk for PKD
(continued from page 3)
• 100% of clubs participate in at least one Child
Abuse Prevention project
ADMINISTRATION
• 75% or greater participation at all Board
Meetings
• 90% or greater participation at all Executive
Committee meetings
• 100% reports to National
• Finance Committee audit the books of the previous fiscal year
• Full Board approves the 2010-2011 Budget by
August 2010
• Follow District By-Laws; update District
Policies as needed
• Revise/Update Awards Manual as needed
• Review and update Annual Goals by February/
March Board Meeting
Kelly Menger invites Florida Exchangites to participate in the Palm Beach Walk for PKD in Jupiter on Saturday, October 16, that benefits the PKD
Foundation. She is walking with her sister who
has polycystic kidney disease (PKD), a life-threatening genetic disease affecting about 600,000 people in the United States. Their team is called Nickles Pickles. To donate, visit their team page at
http://www.pkdcure.org/NicklesPicklesTeam.
Fall 2010
Odette Patterson
Odette Patterson
American Red Cross
The National Exchange Club and American Red
Cross signed a two-party Partnership Agreement
July 24 to provide a broad framework for cooperation and engagement in mutually beneficial services and efforts, including disaster education and
relief. Details are available at http://www.
nationalexchangeclub.org/newsroom/2010/necarc-agreement.pdf.
Florida Exchangite
25
CONVENTION
FYI: Federal and State Taxes
All nonprofit entities, whether or not they are considered 'charitable', must file an annual information return
by November 15 with the Internal Revenue Service to
maintain their federal tax exemption. Clubs are at risk
of losing their tax-exempt status if they have not
filed a Form 990-N (or other required form) in the last
three years. On July 26 the IRS extended the filing
deadline for one time only to October 15, 2010, for
organizations eligible to file Forms 990-N or 990-EZ.
Details are available at http://www.irs.gov or at the
NEC website, http://www.nationalexchangeclub.org/
memberarea/clubtools/irs-tax-info.htm.
In Florida, if a nonprofit entity solicits the public for donations, they MUST register with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. According
to myFlorida.com, “Charitable organizations or sponsors intending to solicit contributions from the public in
Florida must annually register with the Division of Consumer Services. To request the required applications,
call 800-435-7352.”
Registering a Nonprofit in Florida:
http://dor.myflorida.com/dor/businesses/nonprofit.html
Registration Application (Ch. 496, 5J-7.004):
http://www.doacs.state.fl.us/onestop/forms/10100.pdf
Solicitation of Contributions:
http://www.800helpfla.com/socbus.html
The Florida Exchangite
Florida Exchangite is an online publication. Four
issues are published each year – Summer, Fall, Winter, and Spring. Club presidents receive each issue to
distribute to all club members by either email or as
printed copies. It is also posted at the District website, http://floridadistrictexchange.com.
Deadline for Winter Issue
December 10, 2010
Please send submissions to Jan J. Binney, editor,
at FDXCNews@gmail.com.
xx
26
Florida Exchangite
Fall 2010
FLORIDA DISTRICT
Roster of Clubs &
Dates Chartered
Division One
Boca Raton 1963
Lake Worth 1949
Pompano Beach 1958
Division Two
Vero Beach 1951
Indian River 1973
Treasure Coast 1989
Division Three
NE St. Petersburg 1970
St. Petersburg 1934
Tampa 1923
Seminole 2005
Division Four
Emerald Coast 2003
Niceville 1986
Tallahassee 1923
Crestview 2008
Division Five
Jacksonville 1923
Jacksonville Beaches 1980
Division Six
Belleview 1998
Gator 1968
Ocala 1946
Suncoast 1999
Division Seven
Sebastian 1982
South Brevard 1986
Fellsmere 2007
Division Eight
Fort Pierce 1972
Division Nine
Manasota Dinner 1999
Manasota East 2006
Manatee River 2009
Sarasota Business 2010
Child Abuse
Prevention Centers
CASTLE
Children’s Healing Institute
Help A Child, Inc.
Family Center
Manatee Family Partnership
Yellow Umbrella
Florida District
Officers
President
District Treasurer
District Secretary
Past President
VP, CAP
VP, Youth
VP, Americanism
VP, Comm. Svc.
Eric Menger
Amy Mueller
Diana L. Walker
John Messal
Roy Thompson
Sue Jones
Judy Landgrave
Bill Schilling
772-532-6132
727-459-6726
772-473-3723
352-359-0389
772-453-3331
352-538-2996
772-696-5347
904-613-3844
FLexchange@att.net
ammue@aol.com
dianawalker@safetran.net
messaljfbe@gmail.com
jeanroy@bellsouth.net
sl856@bellsouth.net
jlandgrave2002@yahoo.com
bjssss@comcast.net
Directors
Division 1
Division 2
Division 3
Division 4
Larry Crismond
Nancy Gollnick
Ken Haas
Karen Helms
Gold Coast
N. Treasure Coast
N. Sun Coast
Emerald Coast
Division 5
Division 6
Division 7
Division 8
Division 9
Amanda Rolfe
John Messal
Diana Walker
Bill Foley
Bill MacArthur
First Coast
Central Florida
Space Coast
S. Treasure Coast
S. Sun Coast
crismond@comcast.net
nancygollnick@att.net
kenhaas1@msn.com
KarenH@beachcommunity
bank.com
ar@rolfelaw.com
messaljfbe@gmail.com
dianawalker@safetran.net
wpfoley@bellsouth.net
macarthurwilliam797
@gmail.com
Members
Scholarship
Foundation
CAP Foundation
Newsletter
Webmaster
Awards
Amy Mueller, Trustee
ammue@aol.com
Roy Thompson, Trustee
Jan J. Binney, Editor
Richard Ashbrook
Judy Landgrave, Chair
jeanroy2@bellsouth.net
FDXCNews@gmail.com
rjashbrook@gmail.com
jlandgrave2002@yahoo.com
Committees
New Club Bldg
& Membership
Public Relations
Conference
Finance
Awards
Nominations
John Messal, Chair
messaljfbe@gmail.com
Jan J. Binney, Chair
Kathy Mize, Chair
Amy Mueller, Chair
Judy Landgrave, Chair
Jim Brown, Chair
FDXCNews@gmail.com
KMMize@aol.com
ammue@aol.com
jlandgrave2002@yahoo.com
WJBKDB@aol.com
Exchange ~ America’s Best Kept Secret
Fall 2010
Florida Exchangite
27
EXCHANGITE
The 2010-2011 Exchange Year
October - November
Homecoming 2010 ~
Come Home to Exchange
January 1 - March 31
Invite Others to Exchange
October 23
National Day of Service
April 16
Believe in the Blue Day
December - January
The Gift of Membership
April 1 - June 15
10 for 10
Your dream is not big enough if it doesn’t scare you!
Florida District Exchange Clubs
4145 Chablis Street SW
Vero Beach, Florida 32968
FLexchange@att.net
http://floridadistrictexchange.com
28
Florida Exchangite
Fall 2010