Governor Donna Parton and Governor-Elect
Tom Ramiccio have secured the services of two of
Kiwanis’ favorite International Presidents: Bo Shafer,
2000-01 and Dr. Wil Blechman, 1990-91. Alex “Bo”
Shafer will set the tone of the convention as our
Keynote Speaker at our Friday Interclub Luncheon. We
will also announce the 2008-09 Club of the Year and
present the four finalists with their awards.Bo Shafer is one of the most personable
people I know. He and his wife, Mary, who succumbed to
cancer last fall following a valiant fight for several
years were inspirations to all of us. They provided
hope, faith while all the time, seeing the positive side
of every situation. The Langguth’s can personally attest
to their strength, their conviction and their positive
impact on our oft-challenging situations.
Bo will share his positive message and
warm and enduring sense of humor with us as he helps us
put everything into perspective. Bo served on the
International Committee assigned to recommend our next
worldwide service project and will probably have some
special insights into the selection.
Dr. W. J. “Wil” Blechman, M.D. was the
person who introduced Kiwanis to Young Children:
Priority One. His program was to have
been Kiwanis’ first three year major emphasis program
and is still our primary focus 20 years later. Wil is a
visionary who challenges us to make early childhood
development a primary focus in our clubs. Dr. Wil will
address us on Sunday morning and will open our eyes to
the challenges in early childhood development and the
strides we have made in Kiwanis to address these early
developmental opportunities.
From the first toll of the bell to the
final toll, we will have an outstanding line-up of
speakers that every one will enjoy. Friday night’s
entertainment is still being planned, but will sure to
reflect Governor Donna’s celebratory theme and
atmosphere.
