for making the 64th Annual Key Club
International Convention in Orlando,
Florida, such a success!
Service in the sun
By Chuck Black, 2007-08 Key Club International Trustee
While most of my peers went to the beach and on cruises, my summer vacation was with my Kiwanis family to the 64th Annual Key Club International Convention in Orlando, Florida, July 11-15th. Thirty-seven Pennsylvania Key Clubbers and three adults traveled to Florida for a week of fun, fellowship, and service!
After spending two exciting days at the amusement parks, we kicked off our convention week at the Meet and Greet carnival. There were activities from dancing to a giant game of Twister, but most importantly we met and bonded with our peers. Michigan walked away with the “Spirit Stick,” an award recognizing a different spirited district each evening.
Thursday began with officer and member workshops, followed by the Abracadabra Service Fair, and the Opening Session. At the 
Service Fair, we swapped our best service practices with Key Clubbers from all around the world. The Opening Session began with a parade of flags showing all Key Club nations and the introduction of the governors, candidates, and International Board. Then, we heard an inspiring speech by Survivor: Africa winner Ethan Zohn. At the conclusion of the session, the Pennsylvania District was announced as the Spirit Stick winner! After the session, we strutted down the red carpet to the Hollywood dance.
Friday the 13th began with district caucusing. The day was filled with more workshops and the Recognition Session. We listened to Jenna Bush’s story as a UNICEF intern, words of wisdom from Circle K International President Alec Macaulay, and enjoyed the talent show! Many clubs and individuals received prestigious awards, and the night concluded with inspirational comedian Judson Laipply, who, of course, performed his famously hilarious Evolution of Dance routine. New Jersey received the Spirit Stick.
Saturday kicked off early with the Step Up & Stomp Out Aids charity walk followed by a celebration breakfast and the House of Delegates. Delegates carefully listened to the candidates for Trustee, Vice-President, and President. Grant Lin of Indiana was chosen as our President, with Joe Schibi of Oklahoma as Vice-President.
With an amazing week coming to a close, we had our Farewell Session. We heard from Kiwanis International President-designate Dave Curry, and witnessed the retirement of the International Board. Immediate Past International President Shivani Radhakrishnan shared her farewell remarks, followed by the installation of the new Board. The convention concluded with Florida as the Spirit Stick winner, thoughts from our new president, and a motivating Call to Denver by Rocky Mountain District Governor Sterling Abbe.
I never thought a convention could beat the great time we had last year in Boston, but it did. I will never forget this opportunity, and I look forward to seeing an even bigger and better convention next summer in Colorado!
