Governor

To the Kiwanis Family:

Of all the times of the year, this festive season is the one which most epitomizes the work of Kiwanis.

It is the time of year when we all look inside ourselves to find the good in humanity. It is the time we put aside petty differences and embrace our brothers and sisters with love and compassion. Fortunate for us, as Kiwanians, we answer the call of the needy and downtrodden throughout the entire year.

We know that we do not need Christmas, Chanukah or Kwanza to help see the suffering, day and day out, of those around us who are less fortunate. But isn't it wonderful that we indeed have these wonderful holidays which reflect the goodwill of man and the spirit of giving during this festive time.

We can always use reminders to help us to continue on our path of doing good things for our fellow man.

May I take this time to wish our Kiwanis leaders, my board and all the members of Kiwanis and their families a wonderful and blessed holiday season. Whether you are celebrating Christmas, Chanukah or Kwanza, may the light of these holidays be seen shining in you and through you during this time of giving and sharing with those around us. Therefore, if you are celebrating Christmas, if you celebrate Chanukah, I wish you a blessed Chanukah, If you celebrate Kwanza, I wish you a Happy Kwanza. May I also wish you and your loved ones a very Happy New Year, one that is healthy and filled with great joy for you all.

In this new year let us not forget that Kiwanis is a family. As we rush to give our immediate family members gifts, let us also give a gift to each Kiwanis family member, as well. Let us give the gift that renews our dedication to our wonderful organization. May each of the parts to our extended family, from Kiwanis to Circle K, from Circle K to Key Club, from Key Club to Key Leader, from Key Leader to Builders Club, from Builders Club to K-Kids, from Golden K to Aktion Club, and from Aktion Club to all our satellite clubs of Kiwanis, continue their commitment to the children in our schools, to the needy members of our communities and to all who suffer throughout the world. Let us also remember our goal to build our organization by inviting new members to join our cause and by building new clubs where there is a need.

Again, I wish you all a safe and Happy Holiday Season, and ask that light which shines in each and every one of you will burn brightly throughout this holiday season and throughout the entire year.

With Kiwanis is in my Heart and my Heart in Kiwanis

Best Wishes to All,

Governor Joe Aiello and First Lady Carole (Cookie) Aiello

Column Posted on Web Site December 17, 2013