Endorsements

From Across the District

DLG Roy Mezas, Division 26 writes:

Dear Fellow Kiwanians,

It is an honour and a great pleasure to be able to endorse Dr. John's nomination for the position of International Trustee.

I worked with Dr. John as Lt. Governor when he was Governor of the Eastern Canada and Caribbean District (EC&C) in 2004-2005.  Dr. John launched a program called "Making a Big Noise in 2004-2005" in which "All the Children, Our Children" was the main theme.  During his year he inspired and motivated everyone in the EC&C DIstrict to work with him to build Kiwanis clubs that would be truly reflective of society and life in the 21st Century to better serve the needs of children throughout the world.

With his positive energy and dedication he lifted the Kiwanis Spirit in the District to the next level.  His enthusiasm and commitment helped others to reach high levels of performance throughout the District.

Through leading by example and by being a role model he contributed substantially to raising the level of Fellowship in the EC&C District. 

Dr. John stands for rendering unconditional service, praising cultural diversity and respecting gender equality.

Based on the above mentioned I hereby strongly endorse Dr. John's nomination for the position of Trustee of Kiwanis International.

Best in Kiwanis,

DLG Roy Mezas

PLG Rick Brooks, Division 10 writes:

PLG Rick Brooks, Division 10

The Kiwanis Club of Westmount (Oshawa)

5756 Choate Road

Port Hope, Ontario, Canada

L1A 3V8

April, 2008

Fellow Kiwanians & Friends;

I trust that you all are eagerly waiting for our convention in Niagara Falls later this summer, I know that I am. It will be here sooner than you may think promises to be a great time.

As I’m sure you are aware, EC&C has the privilege of electing a Trustee to represent us as part of the great Region II on the Kiwanis International Board. This is one of those years. My reason for writing this letter is to endorse my friend and colleague from Ridgetown, Ontario, PG Dr. John Button for the position of International Trustee, Region II.

Along with his wife Debbie and family, Dr. John Button’s record as a Kiwanian, as an LG and as a Governor speaks volumes of his capabilities to lead. His continued interest in serving the medical community of southwestern Ontario shows his ongoing commitment to the community.

All of this aside, my endorsement of Dr. John comes from my association with him in my six  years as K Kids and Builders Club Administrator and knowing that his interests truly are with the children….and whether it’s YCPO and IDD or Service leadership with Key Club and Aktion Club, he has been there for the children by his actions and not just his words.

Dr. John has the ability of vision and epitomizes the phrase “long range planner”.  When he was canvassing for Governor, he spoke of his premonitions on the need for fundamental change……he spoke to this his entire year as Governor but people weren't ready to listen, I believe , they were in their comfort zone…. and I for one, look back with disappointment. Now, times have changed, and that idea has been repackaged….we call this vision “The New Kiwanis”….now people are listening….go figure.

Perhaps Past International President Steve Siemens said it best, “When you’re through changing…you’re through!” Hopefully we hear that message…because I believe that our very existence depends upon it. We need Dr. John to continue lobbying for us at the International Board, if we are to be heard and considered as equals.

I encourage you to join with me and endorse PG Dr. John Button as the next International Trustee for Region II and give him your support in Niagara Falls this August.

Distinguished District Secretary Treasurer, Robert Normand writes:

May 20, 2008

Dr. John Button, Past Governor

E.C.&C District

Kiwanis International

Dear Dr. John,

On October 2nd, 2007 you announced your candidacy for the office of Kiwanis International Trustee for Zone 2 comprised of Western Canada,  Eastern Canada and the Caribbean Districts  in the election to be held at our District Convention in Niagara Falls in August.  Past Governor Joanne Murray is also running. 

After careful consideration, I wish to inform you that It is my intention to support your candidacy.  Certain factors contributed to my decision.  In 2003 you were running for the position of Governor-elect, facing opposition from another capable candidate. 

You will certainly recall that at the time, a number of Kiwanians felt it was important to find out where both candidates stood on a number of issues. A questionnaire was prepared and was sent to the two candidates with the understanding that the answers would be shared with all interested Kiwanians.

Dr. John, the quality and clarity of the answers you provided left no doubt in my mind that you were the best candidate for the position of Governor-elect and, of course, you were elected.  Under you leadership, our District had a great year.

I had the pleasure of working with you on the District Convention Committee and your contribution allowed the committee to acquire credibility, to the point that  it now plays an important role in the planning and organization of our District conventions.

There is no doubt in my mind that you are the best suited candidate to represent our Districts as Trustee at Kiwanis International,  and you can count on my support.

Yours in Kiwanis Service,

J.M. Robert Normand

Distinguished District Secretary-Treasurer

President Catherine Moore, Kiwanis Club of Oakville writes:

Dear Fellow Kiwanians,

During my years as a Kiwanian in Ridgetown I had the opportunity to experience first hand Dr. John Button's leadership.

One evening Dr. John was in charge of the program.  He had the club members form into groups of four.  Each group had pencils and paper.  Next we were to answer 10 questions asked by Dr. John.  After one round of 10 questions we were ready for more - Ridgetown Kiwanis Quiz Night was born.  The object was to raise money for IDD.  It was such a success that participants asked when the next one would be held.  Dr. John organized the second one for the following February.  This fundraiser continues every October and February and to date has raised over $40,000.

Dr. John has led by example be it dressing up as Bugs Bunny for the Kiwanis Santa Claus Parade, stocking the shelves at the Salvation Army Food Bank, working Bingos and partnering his club with the Chatham Kiwanis Club and Chatham-Kent Golden K Club to raise $100,000 for the Kiwanis Nursery at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance.  This was a first for Kiwanis as the partnering involved two Divisions in E.C. and C.

In 1983, Ridgetown District High School held its 100th Anniversary Reunion.  Dr. John's leadership skills were evident when the weekend event was a huge success raising over $20,000.

The skills I have learned during Dr. John's presidency as his secretary have enable me to be a better Kiwanian and to become President of the Kiwanis Club of Ridgetown and the President of the Kiwanis Club of Oakville.

I am honoured to endorse Past Governor Dr. John Button for International Trustee for Region II of Kiwanis International.

Vice-President Bill Mates, Kiwanis Club of Tillsonburg writes:

Dear Fellow Kiwanians,

I have known Dr. John for almost 10 years and during that time I have seen how his dedicated and committed leadership has been “show by example”. Dr. John has and continues to be an inspiration to all of us. His long term participation with Kiwanis from his Key Club involvement from grade 10 to 13 and association in Kiwanis since 1978 has demonstrated a definition of volunteerism beyond all expectations. Dr. John is resolved to make our global community a small important community where each day counts and where everyone is important in “serving the children of the world”.      

Bill Mates B.Tech. B.Sc. P.Eng. (Retired)

Retired as Regional Field Officer, The Duke of Edinburgh's Award, Young Canadian’s Challenge

Also, formerly as Regional Coordinator, Ontario Special Olympics and Regional Director, Participate Community Arts Program.

Vice President Kiwanis Club of Tillsonburg 2007 / 2008

Kiwanian of the Year EC&C 1998 / 1999

Kiwanis Club of Chatham-Kent Golden K writes:

The Kiwanis Club of Chatham-Kent Golden K (Division 3 Bluewater St. Clair) wishes to announce its endorsement of Past Governor Dr. John Button for the position of Kiwanis International Trustee, Region 2 representing the Districts of Western Canada and Eastern Canada and the Caribbean. 

PG Dr. John Button impresses our club with his strong and sincere passion for Kiwanis. Tears come to his eyes each time he speaks about the need to assist the children of the world who live in poverty and/or with terrible medical conditions. During his term as Governor, Dr. John used the theme “Make a Big Noise” to encourage Kiwanians to let the world know that Kiwanis is working hard to make a difference for these children.

Dr. John has accepted invitations to speak at our club meetings on several occasions to share his passion for Kiwanis and other community issues. His messages always inspire our members to do more and do better in our community projects.

Dr. John has been an active Kiwanian over the years. Those accomplishments are outlined in his resume on his campaign website so we will not attempt to summarize that lengthy list in this endorsement.

Our club also wishes to acknowledge the passion for Kiwanis that PG Dr. John’s wife, Debbie, shares with him. Debbie is an active Kiwanian who is always there to assist and support PG Dr. John in his commitments.

We believe that PG Dr. John Button will provide fine leadership as International Trustee. He is committed to addressing the need for change in Kiwanis.

Mary Alice Marchand

Secretary

Kiwanis Club of Chatham-Kent Golden K

From the Community

Michele Grzebien, Executive Director - Foundation of CKHA writes:

Dear Madame/Sir:

It gives me great pleasure to forward by endorsement of Dr. John Button in his bid to become a member of the International Board of Trustees of Kiwanis International.

In my opinion, your organization cannot find a better candidate for this very important role.  Dr. Button is a superb ambassador of Kiwanis International as he embodies the true meaning of "changing the world, one community at a time."

I have known Dr. Button for 10 years, and my initial contact with him was through the Ridgetown Kiwanis Club.  In my role as Executive Director of the Foundation of the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance I have been witness on many occasions to Dr. Button's dedication to both his work as a family physician and a member of Kiwanis.

In 2007, Dr. Button became a member of the Board of Directors for the Foundation of the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance.  Also, he accepted the challenge of becoming one of the Co-Chairs of our $3.5 million "Making the Right Investment - MRI Campaign".  In spite of his very busy schedule, Dr. Button ensures that when he gives his assurance to an organization, he does so with enthusiasm, professionalism, and gives over 100% at all times.  As well, he is supported in his volunteer roles by his wonderful wife, Debbie!

Each day, my profession requires that I rely on the support of volunteers to fulfil our mission.  Dr. Button is one of those rare volunteers who truly make my job much more pleasant because of his positive and encouraging support.

Sincerely yours,

Michele Grzebien

Executive Director - Foundation of CKHA