Div. 17 Honors Gov. Riley and First Lady Vickie
by Kelly Boswell

On Saturday, March 8, 2008, Division Seventeen had a dinner honoring Governor Arthur Riley and First Lady Vickie. This special event was held at the Crystal Ballroom at Leisure World of Silver Spring. Eighty Kiwanians braved the cold and wind to hear Governor Riley speak about the challenges and accomplishments of the Capital District. After a nice warm dinner, we were entertained by "The Hurley School of Irish Dance". The troupe of dancers performed several traditional Irish Folk Dances. The group consisted of both novice and experienced dancers. Everyone enjoyed this part of the evening. After their high energy performance, Governor Riley spoke to us about the importance of growth. One of his goals is to build more clubs in communities that would benefit from an organization as Kiwanis. Not only is new club building a priority, but maintaining and building our own clubs is just as important. The future of Kiwanis depends on growth and diversity. In Governor Riley's honor, Division Seventeen made a generous donation in his name to The Copper Ridge Institute. The mission of The Copper Ridge Institute is to conduct and evaluate research and to educate about care practices that involve aging persons. Meeting this mission will improve the quality of life for patients and families with Alzheimer's disease and other memory impairing disorders. Division Seventeen will continue to support Governor Riley in all of his efforts to spread the word of Kiwanis.We would like to thank the following people who helped make this evening special: Kelly Boswell, Chair; Anita McFarlane, Decorations; Liz Quinn, Program and everyone else involved - "Thanks"