And the angel said to them, "Be not afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which will come to all people..." Luke 2:10

I am writing this newsletter on the eve of St. Nicholas, remember good old St. Nick. When we were small, hanging our stockings up in anticipation for his visit was one big thrill. Waking up on that cold December morning and finding a bulging stocking filled with oranges, candy canes, nuts and that yearly ever present lump of coal was one gigantic thrill. That shows you how dumb we were back in those days. Try giving those same things to kids now days and see what reaction you would get.

Edgar Willig gave the invocation and it was wonderful as usual. Father Jim has developed some cancer cells on his hip. If this can't be treated successfully, he will need a hip replacement. Please pray for him, your prayer will be of great help.

Thank you notes from several organizations were read; Problem Pregnancy Center and Holy Family Pantry.

Bob Rinear was recently in the newspaper with a letter to the editor. He wrote to one of our community papers giving credit to "Fashion Bug" for their generosity to the students of Oyler School. On November 8th gifts of new jackets, ski hats, gloves, toys and lunch boxes were distributed to the students. Along with these items a gift of $2500 to buy supplies and also $1500 for thanksgiving was also donated.

Craig Hackenberry gives Kiwanis members a very heartfelt thank you to those who have contributed their time to the mentoring program. This program has contributed greatly to the literacy of the children.

Don't forge that Oyler School is still selling tickets for a raffle. $100 a ticket. The prize will be $15,000.

Ed and Sandy Flick presented our past pres, Tony with a photographic journey through last years Kiwanis events. I don't know if it was passed around, I noticed how gray, old and heavy a lot of us members looked. I just know it was that wide angle lens Ed likes to use.

Last Saturday the Salvation Army Kettle crew collected $1097.00. That was some mighty good bell ringing. If you have signed up please try to remember the time you have been assigned.

Our speaker for the week was Jack Keller and his wife Ann. Jack spoke on his days as a pilot in WWII. He flew 26 missions in a B-17.

Till Next Time - Lois L. Lane