Kiwanis Club of Poquoson
by Joe Discenza
On May 12th, the Poquoson High School Key Club held a Year-End Celebration in the Poquoson HS Auditorium. This annual event is held to celebrate the many accomplishments of the Key Club over the past year, thank sponsors, and induct incoming Key Club Officers.
Assistant Principal, Mr. George Yeager hosted the event with Key Club President Danielle Tassara and Poquoson Faculty Advisor Mr. Mic Platt emceeing the ceremony.
School Superintendent, Dr. Jennifer Parish and Poquoson Kiwanis President Mr. Walt Burns expressed the importance and appreciation for the partnership between the Poquoson Schools and the Poquoson Kiwanis Club. Both leaders expanded on the importance the partnership plays in providing leadership and community service opportunities for Key Club members.
Mr. Mic Platt, Faculty Advisor and Mr. Brian Wilson, Kiwanis Advisor to the Key Club, have weekly contact with Key Club members and provide oversight and leadership in club activities. Over the past year, the Key Club volunteered over 1386 community service hours, raised over 7,000 dollars and has donated over 5,300 dollars to charities in the area. The Poquoson Key Club was one of the best in Division 23 and earned Key Club President Danielle Tassara the Distinguished Presidents Award. Danielle will serve as Key Club Lt. Governor for Division 23 of the Kiwanis Capital District for the 2010-2011 school year.
A major highlight of the evening was the recognition of Mrs. Barbara Rich, long-time PHS teacher, who is retiring at the end of the school year. Mrs. Rich served as Key Club Advisor for 17 years. Former and Current Kiwanis Advisors to the Key Club, Mr. Michael Stinson and Mr. Brian Wilson shared their perspectives on the exceptional service Mr. Rich provided to the Poquoson HS Key Club. Refreshments and cake were served after the formal ceremony.
Brian Wilson, Kiwanis Key Club Advisor, recognizes retiring teacher and school Key Club Advisor Mrs. Barbara Rich
Kiwanis club President Walt Burns addresses the club.