100 Years of Service!
VOL. 97, No. 1 ISSN 0914-5785
Happy Birthday Civitan!
Graphic Artist Tonya Duckett
Our Centennial Celebration got off to a great start! At the Norfolk convention this past July was just the beginning. Districts, clubs, and members are all planning on various projects to highlight Civitan in their communities. We have taken on the challenge of 100 new clubs during our celebration year to mark one new club for each year Civitan has served throughout the world. And we have started the Homecoming Membership Drive to reach out and invite pat members to come home and help us celebrate this historical year. I hope each of you will look at the great works done by your membership in your community and think of someone who it would both benefit themselves and the community by being part of your club. And while you are thinking, consider the communities around you that are not blessed with a club and look to help them get a new club to serve their community. This is the perfect year to promote Civitan and all it does by celebrating the history we have over the past 100 years. Be loud and be proud of all you do, shout it to the world!
Duane Capps 2016-17 International President
PR and Communications Director Terry Schrimscher Contributing Writers W. John Rynearson, CAE Mary Luck Louis Stephens Lauren Dover
2015-16 International Officers President: Duane Capps, Greensboro, NC President-Elect: Kendyl Massey, Maryville, TN Immediate Past President: Debbie Juhlke, Round Rock, TX International Directors: Barbara Holyfield, Meridian, MS; Land Suggs, Jacksonville, FL; Leigh Wilkinson, New Bern, NC; Patricia Jackowski, Middletown, CT; Lyle Armstrong, Don Mills, ON, Canada; Leslie Benmark, Joelton, TN; Dan Brown, Albuquerque, NM; Linda Colley, Altadena CA; Michael Koneke, Beverstedt, Germany; Sae-11 Chun M.D., Republic of Korea Junior Civitan International President: Cambron Bice, Alexander City, Alabama; Executive Vice President: W. John Rynearson, CAE, Birmingham, AL
On a personal note, I would like to thank you for the opportunity to serve this year as the president of this great organization. Times are changing and we like all other service clubs will have many barriers to overcome. A special thank you to all who are serving in leadership roles in their districts and clubs. Without your commitment to serve we would be nothing. I look forward to meeting as many Civitans as possible this year while visiting with your districts. But most of all I look forward to our great celebration as we come together in Birmingham for our joint convention with our Junior Civitans. I hear the registrations are really coming in and we will have one of the larger conventions lately. But with that said we still have room for more, so I encourage you to not miss out on this convention. It is going to be one for the books! United States
As you all serve your communities this holiday season, remember you may never see the faces of all those you will touch, but you have made a difference with your efforts. Lisa and I wish for all of you to have a safe and blessed holiday season. Step back and surround yourselves with the spirit of the season with family and friends. May God bless you and all your efforts to serve!
1917
Canada 1925
Civitan Magazine, like the organization it represents, is dedicated to service. The magazine will, at all times, emphasize the high ideals and purposes of the organization, disseminate ideas for greater service, and carry authorized announcements and notices regarding the activities of the organization. The magazine is an official Civitan International publication. Civitan International does not endorse or imply endorsement of any product and/or company by selling advertising space in this publication. Editorial opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Civitan International, its officers, or staff.
Norway 1969
 Duane Capps International President 2016-2017
Germany 1970
Sweden 1970
South Korea 1974
Japan 1975
Telephone: (205) 591-8910 FAX: (205) 592-6307 Email: civitan@civitan.org Website: www.civitan.org
On the Cover Downtown Birmingham, otherwise known as the Magic City in the early 1900s around the same time as the first Civitan Club was founded.
Bangladesh 1990
Denmark 1991
Hungary
Mission Statement The mission of Civitan worldwide is to build good citizenship by providing a volunteer organization of clubs dedicated to serving individual and community needs with an emphasis on helping people with developmental disabilities.
Civitan Countries
1991
Jordan 1992
India 1992
Russia 1992
Ukraine Romania Nepal 1992
1992
1993
Estonia Slovakia 1993
1994
Sierra Leone 1994
Nigeria 1997
Ghana 1997
Pakistan Philippines Netherlands Thailand 1999
2001
2002
2007
Liberia Cote d’Ivoire Taiwan 2008
2008
2008
United Kingdom 2008
Winter 2017
INSIDE 9
14
17 IN EVERY ISSUE Borderless Civitan 14
FEATURES 4
7
8
10
Club Showcase 16
Restoration Fund Update 2016-2017 Sponsorship Awards
Centennial Incentives for Civitans Who Sponsor New Members
The Magic is Back, In Birmingham! 2017 Centennial Celebration Convention
A Centennial Reflection
Looking Back on our First 50 Years
15
Ask Us: 24/7
Senegal Cameroon Mexico 2009
2010
2010
China 2011
Kenya 2011
Tanzania 2011
Egypt 2012
Italy 2012
Haiti 2012
Uganda 2013
Togo 2014
Moldova 2015
Switzerland Gambia 2015
2015
Guinea 2015
Serbia 2015
France Madagascar 2016
2016
Turkey 2016
Restoration Fund Update
BEFORE
AFTER
Our Centennial Celebration International Convention is around the corner, and the work on our World Headquarters Restoration Project is well underway. This is the first facelift to Civitan headquarters since our 75th anniversary. While planning the renovation work the Centennial Committee divided the project in stages to ensure that the funds collected would be used to their fullest extent. As chair of the Centennial Celebration Committee and the Restoration Campaign, I would like to report the restoration is on schedule and the headquarters is well on its way to being completed prior to our convention in June 2017. As you know our world headquarters is the hub of all activity for Civitan International. Not only is it the home of our international staff, but it is the training center for all of the current and future leaders of our organization. This is traditionally the time of year we think about donating to others; this would be a great time to make a donation to the Restoration Campaign. There are still a couple of rooms available for naming rights. These rooms can be yours for $10,000 up to $30,000. This would be a great way to honor someone special to you, your club or your district. It can also be a way of ensuring you are a part of the Civitan legacy. If you are interested in purchasing a room, please contact myself or Keith Sheffield at Civitan World Headquarters. If that is out of your price range Cornerstones and Bricks are still available for sale for $1,000 and $100 respectively. If you purchase a Cornerstone you will be invited to a special function hosted by the International President at this year’s convention. Know that your donation will make a difference to our organization and preserve our world headquarters for future generations of Civitans. Thank you for your consideration of a donation. Without your help we cannot finish this worthwhile project. I look forward to seeing you all in Birmingham at our Centennial Celebration.
BEFORE
Jay Albertia Past International President Chair, Centennial Celebration Committee Chair, Restoration Campaign.
AFTER
To donate to the Civitan International Restoration To find out more about the Restoration Fund, visit 4 Civitan Magazine
1.800.CIVITAN
Total received thru November 30, 2016: $392,355 Reminder: Outstanding Pledges are due no later than December 31, 2016 The following naming opportunities are available: Member Services Workroom, Development Department Workroom, Print Shop. We also have two partial funding naming opportunities for the Membership-Leadership Assistant Office ($2,500) and the Finance Director Office ($7,500). Fully Funded Offices: Archives North Carolina District East Cantina Southeast Guilford Civitan Club, North Carolina Corporate Counsel Chesapeake District Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Development & Administrative Services Office Sherry & Jimmy Garrett Montgomery Civitan Club, Alabama Great Southwest District Downstairs Classroom Dr. Gary N. & Leslie Ann Benmark Downstairs Kitchen Capital City Civitan Club, North Carolina Environmental Security Gate 2016-2017 Centennial Governors Executive Vice President's Office Dr. Gary N. & Leslie Ann Benmark Finance Assistant Office New England District Owensboro Civitan Club, Kentucky Valley District Winchester Civitan Club, Kentucky
Cornerstone Contributors 2012-2014 Civitan International Directors Alabama Central District Almonte Civitan Club, Canada Lyle Armstrong Canadian District East Bannock Civitan Club Burbank Civitan Club, California California District Civitan Club of Orlando, Florida Linda S. Colley Columbia Civitan Club, Tennessee Cottage Hill Civitan Club, Alabama Dennis L. Day Dickson Civitan Club, Tennessee Dublin Civitan Club, Georgia Louise Dunnam, Siloam Springs Civitan Club, Arkansas Durham Civitan Club, North Carolina
Finance Director Office Tupelo Luncheon Civitan Club, Mississippi
Media Room Whitehead Athens Civitan Club, Georgia
Flag Foyer Florida District Guilford College Community Civitan Club, North Carolina
Membership-Leadership Assistant Office Appalachian District Phillip & Joan Brown South Carolina District YP Club of Knoxville
Fruitcake Revenue Office Robert & Kathy Bolster International Board Room Jay Albertia Gena Albertia Edward Baum Mike & Joanie Brown Bill & Sharon Buscher Brian & Mary Connelly Randy & Sharron Eckhoff Francis & Mary Lou Essic Polly & Victor Forestier Markham & Gayle Howe Danny & Corine Jackson Fred & Betty Kletrovets Harold & Patricia Lannom W. Alvin & LaVerne Owens Bill & Eileen Pearson Bob & Wendy Robinson Leadership Training Office Leigh & Greg Wilkinson
Enid Civitan Club, Oklahoma Farmer Civitan Club, North Carolina Mattie Fraser Georgia District Georgia District Foundation Heartland District Idaho Falls Civitan Club Ralph & Joyce Illingworth Charles & Helen Leach Marietta Civitan Club, Ohio Terry Meek Meriden-Wallingford Civitan Club, Connecticut Merrillville Civitan Club, Indiana Midwest Area of North Central District Montevallo Civitan Club, Alabama New England District Norfolk Civitan Club, Virginia North Central District Pembroke Civitan Club, Canada
Membership Records Office Edward Baum & Anita James President's Office Dr. Timothy & Debbie Juhlke Public Relations/Communications Office Arthur Bryan, II Roadside Marker Heart of the West District Supply House Dr. Timothy & Debbie Juhlke Upstairs Classroom Syd Fishman Memorial by Leslie S. Nielsen, Jeff Fishman & David Fishman
Pioneer Civitan Club, Michigan Plymouth-Canton Civitan Club, Michigan Dr. William D. Rentz Rhododendron Civitan Club, North Carolina Rocky Mountain Civitan Club, Colorado Rose City Civitan Club, Texas Dee Dee Ruhlow Salisbury Civitan Club, North Carolina Sanford Civitan Club, North Carolina Norman & Rose S. Shamberg Foundation, Inc., North Carolina James & Cheryl Snyder Windgap Enterprise, Inc. Wynester Sherrer Lana Suggs The Spartanburg County Foundation, Spartanburg Civitan Club, South Carolina Lee & Jack Truesdell Richard A. Watson & Carol Kline
Fund, please contact the Development Department at International Headquarters at 1-800-CIVITAN. the page on Civitan.org, under Fundraising in the Member Resource Center. WWW.CIVITAN.ORG
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Double Yourto the Donation Research Center! Once again, the Chesapeake District’s Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities has generously pledged to make a matching donation in the name of ANY Civitan club or member who donates to the Civitan International Research Center! Our Research Center is a source of greater understanding, therapy, and hope for all families affected by developmental disabilities. Civitan scientists there conduct groundbreaking research into disorders such as autism, Rett syndrome, Down syndrome, and more. Without your support, many of these programs could not continue. When you donate to the Civitan International Research Center through Civitans at the Helm, the Chesapeake District’s foundation will make a matching donation in your name! Your club will receive credit in Civitans at the Helm for BOTH donations, and will be recognized in the next Civitan International Annual Report. We urge you to show your support for our flagship project. For every Civitan club that donates at least $10 per member through Civitans at the Helm, the Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, Chesapeake District, Civitan International, Inc. will submit a matching donation, up to a total of $100,000. Furthermore, for every donation by individual Civitans to the program, the Chesapeake District’s foundation will also submit a matching donation, up to a total of $100,000. Clubs who participate in this program will receive Civitans at the Helm credit for both their donation and the matching donation made in their name. Donations must be submitted by September 30, 2017, to be eligible. For more information on this program, contact Rosemary Smith, Director of Development and Administrative Services, at 1-800-CIVITAN, ext. 108, or via email at rosemarysmith@civitan.org.
CIRC Video Now Available The 2016 video update for the Civitan International Research Center is now available! This DVD is produced each year by the staff at our Research Center, and gives insight into several of the research programs being conducted. This year's update follows research programs that are laying the groundwork for treatment of disorders such as epilepsy, Alzheimer's Disease, dementia, and more. You can order this DVD at the Civitan Supply House (www.shop.civitan.org) for just $15. It's a great video to watch at your local club meeting! You can also use it to show potential donors just what our fundraising for the Civitan International Research Center is all about. Just visit www.shop.civitan.org, and look in the "Literature" section.
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2016-2017
SPONSORSHIP AWARDS Centennial Incentives for Civitans who Sponsor New Members
Sponsor 1st Member
Earns First Sponsorship pin. Can be received only for those who sponsor very first member into Civitan.
Sponsor 1st Centennial Member
Receive Centennial Sponsor pin. Received for sponsoring 1st member of the centennial year (October 1, 2016 through September 30, 2017)
Sponsor Two Members
Receive Centennial lanyard.
Sponsor Four Members
Receive Centennial 2016-17 MST recognition/pin (name also appears on the ‘Super Recruiter’ list in Civitan Magazine.)
1917
0
2017
C e lebrating 100 Years of Service
2016-2017
Sponsor Six Members
Receive Centennial logo name badge and invitation to a special president’s reception at the International Convention in Birmingham. (Receive reception invite if accomplished by June 15, 2017)
Founder’s Day Drawing
March 17, 2017, International President Duane Capps, MST will conduct a drawing where 10 members will receive their registrations and four nights lodging at the Birmingham International Centennial Convention. Entries will be for each member a Civitan sponsors.
(No limit to number of entries and No double winners)
One-a-Month Level – Sponsor 12 members/$200 donation
In your name to Civitans-at-the-Helm for the club of your choice or Towards a person’s Civitan International Fellow (Foundation Shropshire, Research Center, Freedom, Sustaining Research Center, or Junior Civitan) or Towards your annual President’s Council contribution (Donations may be divided)
Two-a-Month Level – Sponsor 24 members/$500 donation
In your name to Civitans-at-the-Helm for the club of your choice or Towards a person’s Civitan International Fellow (Foundation Shropshire, Research Center, Freedom, Sustaining Research Center, or Junior Civitan) or Towards your annual President’s Council contribution (Donations may be divided)
WWW.CIVITAN.ORG
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The
MAGIC is BACK!
Like most cities, Birmingham has its own list of largest, greatest, oldest places and things to brag about. One of the most special is the city is home to Civitan World Headquarters where it all began. Here are a few:
• With a metropolitan population of more than a million people, Birmingham is the largest city in Alabama. • The University of Alabama at Birmingham’s UAB Hospital is an international leader in health care. • Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum has the largest collection of vintage and contemporary motorcycles in the world.
• Birmingham is known as the founding city for the recognition of Veterans Day and hosts the nation’s oldest and largest Veterans Day celebration. • Birmingham is the only place in the world where all the ingredients for making iron are present—coal, iron ore and limestone, all within a ten-mile radius.
• Barber Motorsports Park hosts the Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama, making Birmingham the only Deep South city on the North American Indy circuit.
• Vulcan, the mythical god of metalworking, is the largest cast iron statue in the world and is second in size only to the Statue of Liberty. The statue sits high atop Red Mountain as a symbol of Birmingham’s birth in the iron and steel industry.
• In 1995 Mercedes Benz chose a site just west of Birmingham to build its first assembly plant outside Germany.
• The Birmingham Museum of Art houses 10,000 pieces of Wedgwood, the largest collection outside England.
• Birmingham’s role in America’s Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s placed the city at the center of the most significant domestic drama of the 20th century.
• With the opening of Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, the state became the “Godfather of Great Golf.” Two of the RTJ courses are in Birmingham, one of them the third longest course in the world.
This is just a sampling of Birmingham’s impressive history. Join the Civitan family n
2017 Centennial Celebration Convention • June 24-27
www.civitan.org/convention
IMPORTANT
PLEASE READ THIS SECTION FIRST
• Birmingham is home to the nation’s oldest baseball park, Rickwood Field, which opened in 1910 and hosted baseball greats such as Jackie Robinson, Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Lorenzo “Piper” Davis, Willie Mays and “Shoeless” Joe Jackson. • Sloss Furnaces produced iron for nearly 90 years during the early days of the city’s emerging as an industrial giant. Today it is a city-operated museum and recognized as a National Historic Landmark, the only facility of its kind being preserved anywhere in the world. • Country singing legend and Alabama native Hank Williams spent the last night of his life at Birmingham’s Redmont Hotel before leaving for a New Year’s Day performance January 1, 1953. • The Alabama Theatre is one of only a handful of 1920s movie palaces still in operation. The “Mighty Wurlitzer” pipe organ still rises from beneath the theater floor for live accompaniment to silent movie screenings and other events. • The Irondale Café is a home-style cafeteria with strong Hollywood ties. The café was the inspiration for author and actress Fannie Flagg’s successful novel Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café and hit movie with half that name.
Two events are separately ticketed events and are not included in any base registration fee. Following are the options available for registration of Civitans and Guests.
REGISTRATION ONLY FEES Civitan Program Registration ONLY $160.00 for all non-ticketed functions including:
•Opening Ceremonies with Entertainment •First Business Session •Seminars and Workshops •Host Hospitality, Supply House •Civitan International Research Center Presentation •Membership Extravaganza with Entertainment •Elections Business Session
Guest Program Registration ONLY $200.00 In addition to Civitan Program includes:
•Sunday tour •Monday tour
SEPARATELY TICKETED EVENTS
Sheraton Birmingham Downtown Special Civitan Guest Room Rates: $115 single/double/triple/quad
Book your room online
via www.civitan.org/convention
next June for Civitan’s Centennial Celebration!
Following Opening Ceremonies on Saturday, a themed Welcome Party. Tickets for the Welcome Party are limited. Once the Civitan Business has concluded Tuesday morning, we will wrap up the convention with the Closing Installation Banquet. Both of these events are separately ticketed and are not included in any other base program registration, but are included in packages as noted below.
Saturday’s Welcome Party (Civitans, Guests and Youth) $25.00 (limited number of tickets available)
Tuesday’s Closing Installation Celebration Banquet $70.00 for Civitans or Guests EVENT PACKAGES Civitan Event Package = $245.00
Includes complete Civitan Program in addition to the Welcome Party and Closing Installation Banquet
Guest Event Package = $290.00
Includes complete Guest Program in addition to the Welcome Party and Closing Installation Banquet
Mail or fax form with payment or payment information to: Fax: (205) 592-6307 Civitan International Convention P. O. Box 130744, Birmingham, AL 35213-0744 USA 2017 Cancellation Policy: Requests for registration refunds postmarked before May 1 will be assessed a $15 processing fee. Requests for registration refunds postmarked before June 1 will be assessed a 25 percent processing fee. Requests postmarked after June 1 and before June 23 are eligible for a 50 percent refund. Request for refunds of ticketed events will not be accepted after June 20. Cancellations due to bona fide emergencies (death or illness) will be honored, less the $15 processing fee, if received no later than August 15. No requests for refund will be honored after August 15. All requests must be received in writing. Convention Policy: Registrant name badges will be required to attend ALL convention functions, including general sessions, elections and workshops. These will be included in your convention packet, and provided upon arrival. Thank you for your understanding.
A Centennial Reflect As Civitan International celebrates 100 years of life—and looks forward to the next century of service to others—our purpose is as important today as it was in 1917. Though much has changed in society, the need for local citizens to engage local needs is ever present. From its humble beginnings in Birmingham, Alabama, Civitan has grown from a small group of concerned citizens to an international service organization with a global reach. In this issue of Civitan Magazine, we reflect upon some of the milestones of our first half century.
Dr. Courtney Shropshire, attorney Jelks Cabiness, druggist Claude Hagan and others held the first meeting and decided to name the new club “Civitan.”
The first convention was held in Birmingham with more than 30 clubs in existence. A new 200-member club in New York City was announced that year.
March 17, 1917
1921 March 13, 1920
The International Association of Civitan Clubs was incorporated in Jefferson County, Alabama. making it possible to expand to other interested cities.
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The Hamilton, Ontario, Canada club was formed. Civitan had 154 clubs and nearly 4,000 members worldwide. 1925 1922
A Civitan club in Geneva, Switzerland was announced, making Civitan a truly international organization.
1.800.CIVITAN
tion: Looking back on our first 50 years The first 50 years of Civitan created the foundation for the organization we celebrate today. The message of good citizenship resonated among the thousands of members who have dedicated countless hours to serving. A century after that first meeting, Civitans around the world continue to see needs in their communities and address them with kindness and compassion. In the next issue, we will look at the second 50 years of Civitan as we progress toward our Centennial Celebration at the annual convention. Material from this list was compiled from The Civitan Story, by Margaret E. Armbrester with contributions from Markham Howe, Past International President.
Civitan organized in districts to better assist members in communication and training.
Civitan moved into new offices in the Comer building in Birmingham.
1927
Civitan began selling Claxton fruitcakes as a fundraiser selling more than a million pounds a year by 1955.
1946 1939 After weathering a decade of decline during the Great Depression, Civitan passed a resolution to formally establish Junior Civitan clubs. The Gladiolus was picked as the official club flower in 1939.
WWW.CIVITAN.ORG
1952 1950 Membership in Civitan reached 14,879.
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10 or more new members
CAN EARN Civi-Bucks$$ Centennial
Centennial Civi-Bucks can be used in the following ways:
Special Incentive for Club Additions Any North American Civitan club that adds a minimum of 10 or more members during the 2016-17 year earns $100 in Centennial Civi-Bucks! (This will be sent immediately to the club’s president when the club reports 10 additions.) Plus, for every 5 additions after that, the club receives $50 worth of Centennial Civi-Bucks!
• Pay for Civitan Supply House invoices • Apply toward quarterly international dues billing • Donate to the club’s Civitans-at-the-Helm contribution Civi-Bucks are good through January 31, 2018.
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2016 Junior Civitan Convention June 23, 2016 was an extremely anticipated day, as the Doubletree by Hilton Atlanta Marietta hotel was filled with Junior Civitans from all across North America. You could feel the excitement, as the delegates began to register for the 36th annual convention. The convention officially began Thursday evening with Opening Ceremonies, where our 2016-17 International theme “Rooted in Service,” was announced and the state of the organization was given by 2015-16 Junior Civitan International President, Kali Wilson. Following President Wilson’s address, delegates were able to hear from the electrifying Shane Feldman, founder and CEO of Count Me In. Mr. Feldman gave an inspiring speech about setting goals for ourselves and working hard to reach them, which was a great primer for the rest of the week. To end our schedule on Thursday, delegates were invited to a “Welcome to the Jungle,” themed dance to cap off a great first day. The following morning, delegates heard from Dr. Aundrea Bartley from the Civitan International Research Center and the outstanding work that Junior Civitans sponsor each year through their fundraising for the Center. Following the very informative spotlight from Dr. Bartley, delegates headed to workshops to prepare for their year as successful leaders. Once the workshops ended, delegates gathered for the Meet the Candidates Luncheon to hear from the candidates hoping to lead the organization to new heights in the 2016-17 year. Once the final candidate had presented their platform and the final question had been answered, delegates were driven to “An Evening of Service” at Kennesaw Mountain National Park, where we helped clear trails and were treated to a beautiful view of Atlanta at the mountaintop. Friday wrapped up at the hotel with a fun evening of movies and games. Saturday morning began with the seating of the voting delegates to elect the 2016-17 International Board. Once the much anticipated announcements had been made, the philanthropy program began. Clubs and districts were honored for their hard work throughout the year and highlighted their service through environmental and social causes awareness projects.Honor Clubs were also presented with much deserved recognition. Saturday night, delegates were able to honor the 2015-16 board, witnessed the 2016-17 board’s induction into office and celebrated the year’s accomplishments with the awards ceremony. Following the banquet and awards program, the farewell dance partymarked the last night of convention. Always bittersweet, the closing of the dance signified the ending of a Junior Civitan year with goodbyes to graduating seniors, but a welcome hello to a new year in service. The 36th Junior Civitan International Convention was definitely a life changing experience and I hope you will join us for the 37th Junior Civitan International convention in Birmingham, Alabama as we celebrate 100 years of Civitan!
WWW.CIVITAN.ORG
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Africa Mercy When someone asks Frank if he’s going home for Christmas he can say “yes” even though he will not likely be spending the holidays in his native Sierra Leone, a nation situated along the western south Atlantic coast of the continent. For the past 5 years Frank Seibure has been a radiation tech orderly aboard the “Africa Mercy” hospital ship. He may spend Christmas in any number of ports along the western coast of Africa, around the Cape and up the eastern coast of Africa including the large island of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean. Africa Mercy ship is a Christian based mission that uses a combination of volunteer professional medical staff and crew to provide free, state of the art treatments, operations and medicines to those who have no other means of medical attention in the major ports of call including Liberia, Angola, Gambia, Kenya, Madagascar and Zimbabwe (shown along South African coast above). Frank began his volunteer calling as a Junior Civitan in Freetown, Sierra Leone just before the horrific civil conflict in the mid 90’s. Frank credits his connection to the Junior Civitan Club and his school mates with helping him keep the hope for a better world through Civitan alive even during the darkest times. Following his schooling Frank took a position with the UN Special Court that prepared for the prosecution of those responsible for the war. Frank was sent to the World Court in the Hague to serve as a UN observer for the 6 month trial of former Liberian Dictator Charles Taylor who began the war using child soldiers that ultimately spilled over to neighboring Sierra Leone. Following the trial and conviction of Taylor, Frank returned to Sierra Leone and in 2011 took a position with Africa Mercy ships. Frank is in the process of working with Civitans in West Africa and the HQ staff to establish clubs in several of the ports they call on. You can follow Frank on Facebook.com/fseibure.
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1.800.CIVITAN
Ask Us - 24/7 by W. John Rynearson, Executive Vice President
Accounts (Club and District) Laura Sappington Yvonne Weldon
Honor Key (International) Mary Luck
Associate Members Stacy Sabo
This is the time of year when club leadership changes. All club officers should be settling into their elected or appointed positions with our club geographical training and online training academies complete. However, we know there’s always some unaddressed questions.
Awards Mary Luck Board Meetings, International Rosemary Smith Bylaws Keith Sheffield Rosemary Smith Campus Civitan Lauren Dover Candy Box Project Rosemary Smith Civitan Magazine Terry Schrimscher Civitans at the Helm Rosemary Smith Clergy Week Terry Schrimscher Club Liability Insurance Laura Sappington Keith Sheffield Club Assistance Louis Stephens Club Building Louis Stephens Bonita Bigbee Club Rosters Beth Towns Coin Box Rosemary Smith Convention (Junior) Lauren Dover Convention (Adult) Mary Luck Dues (Junior or Campus) Lauren Dover Dues (Adult) Yvonne Weldon
If you have a question, it’s good to know where to go for quick answer. One way is to call 1-800-CIVITAN and dial the individual’s name and telephone number extensions that are included in the margins of this article. However, telephones are generally only answered during business hours, so you’ll have to sometimes leave a message once you navigated through the automated directory. Fortunately, you can leave a message any time of the day and someone will get back to you. We are also easily accessible through email and those addresses are also provided for you.
Foundation Keith Sheffield Rosemary Smith Fruitcake Glenn Thomas Keith Sheffield Golf Benefit Rosemary Smith Glenn Thomas Keith Sheffield Growth and Leadership Louis Stephens Bonita Bigbee
WWW.CIVITAN.ORG
International Club Information John Rynearson Invitations (International Officers) Rosemary Smith IRS Numbers (Clubs and Districts) Keith Sheffield Rosemary Smith Junior Civitan Lauren Dover Legacy Society Keith Sheffield Membership Growth and Leadership Louis Stephens Bonita Bigbee Membership Longevity Awards Beth Towns Membership Records Beth Towns Planned Giving Keith Sheffield
Another way to get answers at Civitan is through www.civitan.org. If you have not visited the website recently you will be pleasantly surprised at the material available at your fingertips. You can check-out the upcoming convention, register, and even book your hotel for our Centennial Celebration next June. You can download all Civitan published literature, and even order all your supply items online.
Policies (International) Rosemary Smith
Many Civitans like to visit other clubs. On our website you will find a club locator with information about times and locations throughout Civitan.
Research Center Terry Schrimscher
You are a valued member of Civitan and we appreciate your questions as well as your comments. Please feel free to reach out to us for assistance and know that we appreciate you and your service to the community.
President’s Council Rosemary Smith Keith Sheffield Public Relations Terry Schrimscher
Scholarships Lauren Dover Supply House City Paper, Ext. 102 www.civitan.org/supplies Glenn Thomas Training—Geographical Sessions Stacy Sabo
Estate Planning Keith Sheffield Fellows Rosemary Smith
Insurance (Club Liability) Laura Sappington Keith Sheffield
Stacy Sabo, ext. 120 stacy@civitan.org Bonita Bigbee, ext. 116 growth@civitan.org Lauren Dover, ext. 131 ldover@civitan.org Mary Luck, ext. 121 MaryLuck@civitan.org John Rynearson, ext. 109 rynearson@civitan.org
Laura Sappington, ext. 107 lsappington@civitan.org Terry Schrimscher, ext. 134 terrys@civitan.org Rosemary Smith, ext. 108 rosemarysmith@civitan.org Keith Sheffield, ext. 105 sheffield@civitan.org
Louis Stephens, ext. 119 growth@civitan.org Glenn Thomas, ext. 104 glenn@civitan.org Beth Towns, ext. 111 beth@civitan.org Yvonne Weldon, ext. 112 yvonne@civitan.org
Training Information (District Officers) Stacy Sabo Travel Requests for International Officers Rosemary Smith Youth Programs Lauren Dover YP Clubs Lauren Dover VIP Program Stacy Sabo Website Questions www.civitan.org Terry Schrimscher
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CLUB SHOWCASE
Civitan hosts fifth annual autism family fun day event The Frankfort Civitan recently held their fifth annual Autism Family Fun Day event at Happy Jack’s Pumpkin Farm. Frankfort Civitan President Renee Moss says it was their most successful year yet. The annual event is hosted for autistic children and their families to get together for a day of fun. Moss said they provided lunch for 94 individuals and paid for 41 children to do all the activities at Happy Jack’s, including bringing home their own pumpkin for decorating. Amy Smith is a Frankfort Civitan member who is also a mother to a 10-year-old boy, Brendan, who is autistic. She said events like the Autism Family Fun Day foster inclusion, which is very important for children with autism and their families. “Children on the autism spectrum typically have heightened senses that can make some situations overwhelming. Events like the Autism Family Fun Day offer an inclusive and accepting environment for our children and families to be part of,” said Smith. Brendan Smith, 10, enjoys the day at Happy Jack’s Pumpkin Farm for Smith said she joined Civitan because she wanted to be part of an organization that the Frankfort Civitan’s Fifth Annual Autism Family Fun Day event. promotes volunteerism. “When you meet Civitan members, you can see how dedicated they are to actively making a difference. It is inspiring to see people of all ages and abilities to come together for the common good,” said Smith. “The Autism Family Fun Day at Happy Jack’s is becoming a tradition that parents and children look forward to every year. Everyone has nothing but good things to say; hoping that the event continues for years to come.” Though Moss has been a longtime member of Frankfort Civitan and helped plan the first Autism Family Fun Day, this was the first event she hosted as the newly elected president, a position that she has held since Oct. 1. Moss said it was rewarding to see that her first event as president was such a success, and it makes her proud to be a part of civitan, which she said is founded on helping individuals with special needs. Moss said she is excited about continuing this Frankfort Civitan tradition.
Civitan Park of the Senses continues to impress Emerging Scholars The Civitan International Research Center presented the Emerging Scholar Awards to the 2016-2017 recipients in November. The awards were established to recognize and support outstanding research projects in the areas of brain development, autism spectrum disorders, Down and Rett syndromes, developmental disabilities, and other brain disorders. Winners of the Emerging Scholar Awards are Julia Beattie, Hai Vo, and Megan Rich. Julia Beattie’s research project involves investigating the basic structural neuroanatomy of human memory. Hai Vo’s project focuses on brain development and functions across lifespans and neurodevelopmental disorders. Megan Rich’s work investigates tbrain-specific drug delivery for the treatment of epilepsy disorders. The Emerging Scholar Award is a $25,000 stipend that can be used by the students to supplement the costs of the research or to directly fund the project.
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Sixteen years ago, Civitans in Hannover, Germany participated in the World Expo 2000 by contributing to a park outside of the Hannover Exhibition Centre. The park, Park Der Sinne or Park of the Senses, was designed as a permanent park for the city where people can experience the wonders of nature with each of the five senses. The park features an Echo Garden and a Garden of Fragrances among other sections. Civitans in Hannover were proud to show off their city to the world—the Expo drew more than 25 million guests—and the local club continues to support the Civitan Grove within the park. Presently, the Hannover club is working to raise funds to plant new trees in the section and they are proud to show off the names of Civitan supporters from around the globe who made the grove possible.
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CLUB SHOWCASE
50 Years & Still Pickin’ ! Granite Quarry Civitan Fiddlers’ Convention celebrates its 50-year anniversary
Every October for the past 50 years, the Granite Quarry (NC District West) Civitan Fiddlers’ Convention has brought young and old together for the best in bluegrass competition. Despite Hurricane Matthew’s nasty weather, this year’s 50th anniversary brought many talented musicians and enthusiastic fans from far and near to enjoy and compete in foot-stomping, hand-clapping, knee-slapping, great quality family entertainment. Over the last half century, the annual Granite Quarry Fiddlers’ Convention has been the Club’s most profitable and longest-lasting fundraiser, with all proceeds put back in the community. Profits from the Convention benefit numerous Civitan projects, including Granite Quarry Elementary, East Rowan Middle, and East Rowan High schools. The club has sponsored Junior Civitan clubs at East Rowan High and Rowan Early College, and has awarded 30 yearsworth of Civitan scholarships at East Rowan High. Proceeds from the Fiddlers’ Convention have also helped in paying for football equipment, a track, band uniforms, an activity bus, computers, microscopes, essay contests and citizenship awards, Coats for Kids, the construction of a walking track at the Saleeby-Fisher YMCA, Granite Quarry’s Christmas lights, Little League baseball, Rowan Adult Homes, Relay for Life, Special Olympics, Nazareth Children’s Home, Victory Junction Gang Camp, Boys and Girls homes at Lake Waccamaw, and the International Research Center in Birmingham, Alabama. Annually at the Fiddlers’ Convention, the Granite Quarry Civitan Club honors an individual who has been a large influence in the promotion of bluegrass music in the community and surrounding region. This year, the Club proudly honored the late Donald “Don” Livengood. With his “Darling” Margaret by his side, Don was a co-founder of the very first Granite Quarry Fiddlers' Convention, and enthusiastically served annually as the Convention Coordinator/ Chairman. He worked tirelessly throughout each of the past 50 years preparing for that year’s Convention with the ultimate goal of giving back to his community. Don was passionate in the promotion of bluegrass music and was thrilled about the increasing number of young people embracing bluegrass and old-time music. Don and Margaret both passed peacefully into Eternity, together and holding hands on August 15, 2016. Although they were not present physically at this year’s Convention, everyone knew that Don and Margaret, the love of his life for 59 years, were looking down on the night’s celebration and enjoying the rich tradition of bluegrass music. Don was also thrilled about the increasing number of young people embracing bluegrass and old-time music. As such, in loving honor of their faithful service and dedication to the Granite Quarry Fiddlers' Convention, “The Don & Margaret Livengood Memorial Excellence in Bluegrass Music Award” was proudly presented by Don and Margaret’s daughter and son-in-law, Pattie Livengood-Beaver and husband, Walter Beaver, to an outstanding youth performer at the night’s Convention.
IVI- WWW.CIVITAN.ORG
President Duane Capps and President-Elect Kendyl Massey representing Civitan at 57th Service Club Leadership Conference. The conference was held in Louisville, kentucky and sponsored by Altrusa International. The photo was at Churchill Downs— home of the Kentucky Derby— where lunch and afternoon activities were sponsored by the Louisville Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Contribute to Club News by sending your story and high resolution photos to us at pr@civitan.org
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CLUB SHOWCASE
Civitan announces two new team members Laura Sappington recently joined the Civitan International staff as Director of Finance, replacing Tom Stoves who will be retiring after over 30 years. Laura earned a degree in accounting from Auburn University and has over 25 years of experience in various aspects of corporate finance, budgeting, forecasting, brand management, investment and analysis. The past 14 years she held numerous senior accounting and management positions with Oxmoor House, a Birmingham based division of Time Inc, the largest regional publisher of lifestyle books in the U.S. With the many challenges the publishing industry has faced over the past decade, Laura has distinguished herself with a successful record of managing shareholder resources to maximize revenue and profit. She supervised profit and loss reporting, budgeting, forecasting, strategic financial planning and monthly variance reports. Maximizing profits through cost control and maintaining margin targets are readily transferable skills we believe will serve Civitan well. Laura has enjoyed many years of volunteering in her community, including chairing the Harvest of Hope fundraiser for past two years and serving as a volunteer tutor and mentor at Cornerstone Schools of Alabama, a non-profit school devoted to educating under-privileged and at risk children of inner-city Birmingham. She is looking forward to the opportunity to combine her financial experience with her love of civic work, and is especially excited about joining the Civitan team during it's centennial year. Laura is a native of Birmingham, and has two children, James and Maggie, who are both currently attending Auburn University.
Terry Schrimscher joined the staff of Civitan International in November as Director of Public Relations and Communications. Terry previously served as Niche Publications Editor for Advance Publications where he managed special content for AL.com, newspapers in Alabama’s three largest markets, Birmingham magazine and specialty magazines in the state. While at Advance, Terry won four Alabama Press Association awards for work in various media. He previously served as public relations director for two statewide nonprofit organizations and managed major accounts for a local advertising company. Terry, a graduate of the University of Alabama, is a Birmingham native and currently resides near Springville, Alabama. Terry and his wife, Edie, have two children, Andrew and Sara who are honor students at Springville High School. He enjoys service work and currently volunteers with a Biblical counseling ministry. Terry is excited to join the team and looks forward to meeting great people from around the world and working together to share the Civitan message.
Civitans, With mixed emotion, I announce my retirement as Executive Vice President of Civitan International effective July 1, 2017. It’s been both a privilege and an honor to have served Civitan as its chief staff officer for the past 31 years working with tremendous volunteers at all levels from around the world. We have come a long way in the past three decades. It seems like the Civitan International Research Center has been with us forever but in reality it was not even on anyone’s radar in 1985. Today, the CIRC’ staff of 300 scientists, technicians and clinicians are making a global impact in our center. Thirty years ago, Civitan had a footprint in 8 countries… today Civitan clubs can be found in over 40 countries from Asia to Africa. Now as we close in on our 100th anniversary, your Civitan leadership is considering some exciting new strategies to make us relevant to those who will need to carry our banner into the next centennial. Last year a succession plan was developed for the EVP position. The board of directors hired a search firm to help in the selection process and over the next 7 months will be transitioning to a new executive vice president. In the spring the board of directors will screen the final candidates and make its decision. Once the new person is selected, the EVP designate will go through an orientation process to ensure a smooth transition. I have committed to train my replacement till everyone comes together in June to celebrate our centennial convention. I will then step aside for the next chapter in Civitan's history as I join the corps of volunteers to help lead in a new way. Members and clubs should see a seamless transition as your dedicated staff continues to serve with excellence. In addition to new staff leadership to start year “101” of our history, we will have a completely renovated headquarters facility thanks to your generous participation during the building renovation campaign these past 2 years. Within the next 3 months we are also launching a sophisticated member data base management system that will help us provide the member “state of the art” service in managing the Civitan experience. I could not be more excited for our future. I believe the best days of Civitan are still ahead of us. If I don’t see you in Birmingham next summer, then allow me to say “thank you” now for the privilege I have had to work with you. Building good Citizenship together, I remain….. Sincerely yours,
W John Rynearson Executive Vice President
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Board of Directors Meetings
CLUB SHOWCASE
Following is a brief recap of board meeting activity that is of significant interest to the membership at-large. A complete copy of the board meeting minutes is available electronically by contacting Civitan International. July 2016 Board Meeting
November 2016 Board Meeting
•The European Division has enjoyed a rebound with one new club chartering in Italy and two more expected by year end. We also have new clubs in Serbia and Paris.
•The Restoration Fund has been successful with receipts and pledges totaling $500,000. Phase 1 of the headquarters construction is complete and Phase 2 began in mid-November.
•Past Korean District Governor Sae-Il Chun, M.D. was appointed as the Asian Coordinator for 2016-2018.
•A distribution of $425,000 was approved and will be conveyed to the University of Alabama at Birmingham toward our grant commitment for the Civitan International Research Center. With this conveyance, we will have reached $18,275,000 in total giving through the 2015-2016 fiscal year.
•Cambron Bice was elected to serve as the 2016-2017 Junior Civitan International President. •A new policy was adopted to require background checks every two years for volunteers working with Junior Civitans. •Congratulations to President-Elect Designate Kendyl Massey, and newly elected directors Barbara Holyfield, Lana Suggs, Patricia Jackowski, Linda Colley, and Michael Köneke. They joined the returning board members and began their terms in office on October 1, 2016. •Two bylaw amendments were overwhelming adopted during the 2016 Convention. The first was to increase North American dues by $3.00 per member, per quarter, effective October 1, 2106. The second was to provide for the Civitan Magazine to be published in an electronic format only. •We kicked-off a year of Centennial celebration, including a membership drive to build 100 new clubs from the close of the Norfolk Convention and through the 2016-2017 year. •A $100 convention registration fee was adopted for anyone registering by November 15, 2016.
•Civitans at the Helm exceeded the prior year’s totals by just over $10,000.
•The board approved expansion into Malta, making this the 48th country to embrace the Civitan movement. We are also seeing positive trends with expansion into Italy, Serbia, and Turkey. In the Philippines, a new club will charter in the Visayas Region to be named the Bacolod Civitan Club. •President’s Council realized an increase of 45 new members since the Norfolk Convention. •The 2017 Golf Benefit will be held on Friday, June 23, 2017, at Ross Bridge Golf Club. •Civitan Coin Box participants will now be given the opportunity to apply for the H.O.P.E. Award when their collections increase by $250.00 or greater when compared to the prior fiscal year’s numbers. •A sub-committee has been tasked with reviewing the Civitan Fruit Cake Policy and drafting new language to explain how various wholesale accounts are handled by Civitan International and directions for clubs seeking rebates. •Long-time Director of Finance Tom Stoves announced that he was transitioning into retirement. Laura Sappington has been hired and is working with Tom. •The 42nd Annual Sno-Do will be held January 20-24, 2017, in Barrie Ontario. •March 10-13, 2017, is the date for the annual Dance-a-thon to be held in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. •A bylaws amendment will be presented to the delegates attending the Centennial Celebration Convention in June 2017. Currently, the international president and presidentelect must be from different regions and divisions. The board is asking that the word “regions” be changed to “districts.”
Civitan Magazine and You Magazine Submissions
Civitan Magazine is now published four times a year to club members around the world. We need your news stories, events, and pictures! Is your club finishing an exciting project, organizing an event in your community, or approaching a special milestone? Just email magazine@civitan.org, call us, or mail your story to the address on the right and your club could be in the next issue of Civitan Magazine! Please include as much information as you can – funds raised, how the event impacts your community and/or club, and any other important details. Pictures are always welcome, too. Please send in jpg format, sized 300 dpi or larger. We hope to hear from you soon! Address Updates / Removing Duplicate Deliveries If you have moved recently or changed email addresses, you can update your information by contacting Beth Towns in the Membership-Leadership Department via email, telephone, or mail to the address on the right.
Civitan Magazine P.O. Box 130744 Birmingham, AL 35213-0744 1-800-CIVITAN, ext. 134 Magazine@civitan.org Membership-Leadership Dept. Attn: Beth Towns P.O. Box 130744 Birmingham, AL 35213-0744 1-800-CIVITAN, ext. 111 bethtowns@civitan.org
Many Civitans have a spouse or partner who is also a member, but only wish to receive one issue of Civitan Magazine at a time. Beth can also help you remove any unwanted duplicate deliveries.
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Attention Civitan Golfers! Ross Bridge Golf Club will be the site for our next Golf Benefit, scheduled for Friday, June 23, 2017. Golfer information and all supporting forms are available on the Civitan website or you may contact any member of the Development Department for more details. Again this year, golfers must raise a minimum of $1,500 to participate. Each golfer is also asked to personally contribute $150 to offset fees directly incurred during the day of the tournament and golf club rental. Beautifully carved into the rolling terrain of Shannon Valley, Ross Bridge will challenge even the golfers of all abilities. The course meanders through indigenous landscape and around the 259room Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa. The flagship course of the world famous Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, Ross Bridge is one of the longest courses in the world but offers multiple tees for golfers of all levels. The beauty and challenge of each hole leads many to believe there is not one signature hole but possibly eighteen. Symbolic of an old parkland style golf course, ten holes play along the banks of two significant lakes connected by a spectacular waterfall dropping 80 feet between the 9th and 18th green. This annual event is one of our most important fundraisers for the UAB Civitan International Research Center, and their research into developmental disabilities. Golfers, now is the time to get into the swing of fundraising and make a real impact for our core mission. To participate, golfers must raise at least $1,500, but most of them don't stop there! This can come from individual donations, club contributions, or even business sponsorships. There are prizes for the top fundraisers, top sponsoring clubs, and even a coveted spot on the Civitan International Trophy for the winning team! Register as soon as possible, and you will receive periodic updates from the Development Department on this year's course, fundraising materials, and other information.
To play
• Contact the Civitan Development Department at 1-800-CIVITAN, ext. 103 or 104 • Email donate@civitan.org • Visit www.civitan.org/golf
We'll See You on the Green!
To contribute
• Contact any player fundraising for the benefit • Contact the Development Department at Civitan International Headquarters