Thank You

UNLVCKI,

It has been a pleasure contacting you with this e-mail. However, it is time that the ability be passed on to someone who truly embodies what we believe in and strive for as Circle K'ers. I have enjoyed every moment serving you as President, and I would be happy to do it again if I knew that I could do a better job, but I can't. I did my best and I hope that, under my term, you have had a chance to experience a great year and grow and develop as good individuals....good Circle K'ers. I will miss interacting with you as a President, but I have only high expectations for the future.

You have all made me very proud. I used to think that this club could not function without my guidance. However, like a parent who is watching their child go away to college and walk their own road, I have spent the last few months witnessing what could only be the best club I have ever been a part of spread its wings and soar off into new heights of service, fellowship, and leadership. I wish I could take credit for all of your accomplishments, but the truth is, I did nothing but watch you grow. I see a great group of leaders, passionate in their mission to serve, and sharing bonds that make best of friends envious.

The next time you receive an e-mail from this account, it will be from my successor, Kevin Goble. He is one that I have known for many years, and served with him on countless projects. He will lead you into a new direction and a new era. This club will flourish like I have never seen before because I truly believe that Kevin Goble and his board are very capable and knowledgeable individuals. Please give them every bit of support, because they can only open the door for the club, provide the opportunity. It is up to you, the member, to step through that door into the bright future.

It is in you, proud Circle K member, that I put my faith and hopes in the club. It is you that our values and foundations are built upon. I would not wish for any other club than this, and I know that you will bring your enthusiasm, your energy and spirit, your ideas and passion, your love into this club and transform it into a whole new epic year.

There is nothing more that I could say except that I love this club: the values, the opportunity, the potential, and most of all, the people - YOU!!

Thank you, for making this year the most memorable and life-changing experience. You have no idea what an amazing impact you have had. Keep being awesome, UNLVCKI!

"LIVE TO SERVE, LOVE TO SERVE"

Ryan Max Ocampo
Past Club President 2010-2011
UNLV Circle K International
unlvcki.blogspot.com
(702) 577-7628

Elections

I watched my caucus video for President last year. It feels like I just gave it yesterday. It was depressing. I wanted to hit that idiot speaking about CKI. I shoulda tucked my shirt in.

I realized something. Fuck...I lost my vision...somewhere along the way.

"to create a unified and self motivated organization
educated on the values, objects, and tenets of Circle K International
and dedicated to service on this campus and world-wide community"

And my goals were:

-establish better communication
-build stronger relationships
-have better organized events
-increase spirit
-create a safe learning environment
-help development and growth in CKI values

I am evaluating myself....a year after the fact. I don't think I did as well as I expected...but I sure as hell tried. I wouldn't change these goals. In fact, I wouldn't mind a second shot.

Shit, everytime I meet someone new, it's new potential. Everytime I make contact with a new organization, it's new opportunity. I love the power of involvement fair and the ability it has to motivate and energize me. I feel like I am ready for the challenges of this year. I just hope my body can keep up...

I love the people around me. I can't express how much you matter. I wish I could be in so many places at once, so I can spend time with you and show you that you matter to me...

...you are the ones that keep me going.

Sick

So I'm sick...along with tons of other people out there. Sadly, a bunch of my friends are sick too. Please, everyone, let's get better soon! Drink lots of OJ and H2O, get rest, and stay warm! My strategy to beat this is to piss, sweat, and sleep this sickness away.

When we are helping others, we kinda forget to help ourselves. We can't help others who are sick if we are sick too. This applies to grades. Take care of your degree. My biggest fear is that I will become one of the individuals receiving aid from the organizations I am currently supporting. That would be a sick irony. I will make sure that I can support myself before I can give back.

I really...really need to study.

Also, I realize that I've been missing posts and not keeping up with my resolution. I apologize. Getting sick kinda messes with my mind. I will get back on it ASAP. Tomorrow is a new day, and I WILL GET BETTER!

Vision

[1/05/11]

What is your image of CKI?

Let me first explain how I got to this question. I am not that good of a leader. I mean, I'm the type of guy that needs some kind of ignition or spark to get my actions going. A small achievement or a little bit of energy from someone else that gives a crap is usually what sets me off. For instance, I was hanging out with a girl I barely knew, and we were chatting about all the amazing things this club could accomplish. I was so motivated to do so much immediately after...but then it died. It's contradictory to how I should be leading - with initiative - but this is not my personality style and is a characteristic challenge I am working on. It certainly has gotten better than when I once was.

But anyways, I haven't been thinking too in depth about CKI lately. Well, I've been thinking about it everyday, but not as severely as this. I have come to realize much...such as the leadership style I just related to you. But this simple question sparked so much for me.

As a leader, I'm supposed to provide a vision, a common goal, a dream that we can all relate to and work to accomplish under my term. I don't know if I ever described it that well or even knew what it was myself. If I did, then I have forgotten...and that's something that visions should never be: forgotten.

When I see CKI, I see a bunch of regular college kids with an extraordinary commonality - a love for service. But that's only just the beginning. I see enthused, excited, energized individuals who give it their all at what they do because they love it so much. This burning passion is what allows them to break their comfort bubbles and step into areas unknown. I see brave and unique individuals who participate and really exemplify what CKI is.

Way back when, my board - a couple of good friends, came up with a vision for the club:

"to lend a helping hand
with open hearts
to the people and community we love
to the furthest
and even beyond
the extent of our abilities"

In short, we give a shit...alot...and we show it. We love our community. We love our friends. We love this club.

Yes, vague....I know....

[2/3/11 - revisit]

I don't know what else I can say. We love to love. This is what I envision of our club. That we put our all into showing how much we love one another.

Decisions

It's January 4th. Four days into the new year. Most people have already made their resolutions and set their goals. I made mine...it's to make this blog. You know what that means? I made a resolution to write so I can find my resolutions.

Basically, as it stands, I have no idea what I'm doing. Yes, I'm going to finish my term as President strong. And yes, I intend to pick up my grades and start learning to be more self sufficient....but where to begin?

Shit. I don't even have my classes set up. I guess it's because I still don't know where I want to go with CKI.

My term is almost up. Looking back at my caucus speech and all the promises I made...I really didn't get to do much of it. Sure, we accomplished so much and I am damn proud of this club but at the same time....

Am I done? Will I fade away like so many past leaders this club has had in the past?I've learned a valuable lesson when it comes to CKI. This club will be there for you if you need it. For those who have already gotten what they can out of the club - the service and need to help others, the chance to develop and grow as a leader, and an opportunity to meet and grow relationships with great many people - once that is all done and they can do no more with the club...they move on.

I don't know if it's my time to move on. A great part of me is saying, "look, you didn't do everything that you could have done. There is so much left for you to do and accomplish. This club still needs you and you still need it." At the same time, another part of me is saying, "you've had your shot. Now it's time to try a different avenue, a different approach. Stop focusing your time and effort in this and move on to something else."

It's weird. I used to think that all those who have left before me lost their passion and love for this club. It's not true. They just have moved on. The love is still there but the time is past. I just don't know if it's my time yet.

I'd be lying if I said that I didn't fill out my schedule for next year because I was lazy. No. It's because I don't know where to put my time and energy. I already know many of my friends and all of my family want to see me out of CKI. That in itself is motivation for me to stay, actually, as a show of defiance and dedication to this honorable club. However, I do feel that I have become distant...

When I commit myself, I fuckin do it. I just haven't decided yet. Time is running out.

I don't know if anybody reads this, but if you could please help me out, just talk to me. Please.

Epiphany

So I'm not gonna lie or try to hide it. I'm pretty religious. I know, I should keep this club neutral and all, but I can't help it if I am motivated at least in part by my values and faith system. I'm not trying to preach or convert anyone. I just want to recall something that I was thinking while practicing my faith. So if the word "God" offends you or turns on your warning alarm, I apologize.

I was sitting in church listening to the gospel about the epiphany of Jesus Christ. The priest had a joke to start off his rant:

"In a quiet village, there was a lonely religious man living in a home. One day, there was a terrible flood, and the villagers were urged to evacuate. When the police arrived at this man's door offering help, he replied, "it's OK. My God will save me." The flood raged on and the man was forced to his second floor. There, firefighters on a raft offered to save him, but he replied again, "it's ok. My God will save me." On went the storm, and the man fled to the roof. There, he saw a helicopter hovering above and rescue teams sending ropes to help him. One more time, the man refused saying, "it's OK. My God will save me."

He drowned.

In heaven, he got a chance to confront God. "Why didn't you come and save me??"

God said in return with a bit of frustration, "I sent you the police, firefighters, and even a helicopter!"

___________

Funny joke. It got the whole church chuckling. I understood though. If you've ever watched the "Almighty" movies (Bruce Almighty and Evan Almighty), this makes even more sense.

Every day, I have the opportunity to be a miracle to someone else. I make my life a challenge to be a source of positive change in the lives of those around me. I was happy hearing this joke in church. This is how I live my faith...by living my life the best that I can for myself and for others.

Why am I motivated to do the things I do? Not only is it in accordance to my religious beliefs, the way my parents raised me, and just being a good kid in today's society, but makes me feel hella good. This is one thing I am proud of: that I can be a difference.

There is no real proof that God exists. However, through my actions and deeds I can embody him. I'll be living proof.

Resolution

1/1/11

Welcome to the year 2011. It's been a rough journey getting here, and the story that has been left is much to long to recount, but no doubt chock full of memories and important lessons. We are finally here.

To tell the truth, I'm not ready. Yea yea, fresh start and all, but I haven't really gotten to the point where I can just put the past away and focus on the future,

Mistake. A leader is always forward looking. Whether you are leading from the front, back, or side, you must always keep a steadfast eye on the future, t know where your destination lies, and to stay vigilant of the new challenges that approach.

This is what I will do. I have two resolutions that I will follow this year. I will do my best, but nobody is perfect. They are:

1. Look to the future. I will strive to keep my head forward. Not down in shame or defeat. Not up in lofty and grand visions or dreaming vicariously of other lives. Not to the side trying to be like those around me and not back always thinking about things in hindsight. I will strive too keep that forward view and be the leader I set out to be so long ago.

2. I will strive to document and log my thoughts and ideas in a daily blog. Yes, I will write every day. My communication is horrible. E-mails, ironically, are so formal and need to be proof-read and structured and clear...and nobody reads them anyways right? If I cannot reach the masses via e-mail, facebook, twitter, etc....I will leave my thoughts here, for the random passerby or curious member. No, it's not being active in gathering listeners, but I have come to terms that I am introverted and that I much prefer the ability of blogs to allow me to write without fear of judgment or being imposing on readers. This is simple, suits my style, and will keep me on track. Yes, this is for me and for all those who choose to read what I have to say. If I'm going to have something to say, I need to get it out somewhere and not just let it rot and fester in my mind.

This is i. 2011. I will never forget 010 and I don't want to. I will keep it there and learn from it, and make 2011 better and more productive. That is what I am resolved to do.

Now to get on adjusting to writing "/11" at the end of all my dates. Happy New Year Everyone!

Rebirth

Hello.

I have gone through a tough turmoil that we all have or are going through at the moment: studying for and taking finals. I'm not some super smart ace or anything, and I'm lucky to have scraped by by the skin of my teeth this year, but I sure as hell tried. I made a sacrifice though. For three weeks, I shirked my responsibilities as a president.

Suuure....you say "well, student before president so don't worry". NO! dammit. NO! You are right about being a student first. After all, if I weren't a student in good standing, I would not, according to our bylaws, be able to serve as your president. However, a good president wouldn't have to shirk responsibility to get shit done.

If I were a good president, I would have a) prepared far enough in advance with as much detail that I wouldn't have to worry about the events during and after studies weeks (i.e. have a plan) or b) have dedicated, willing, and able members be appointed to take care of the responsibilities for me while I struggle to save my ass from the impending doom of probation and suspension (by the way, option two seems damn near impossible to fulfill because you are technically the most dedicated, so there is nobody else besides you who is willing to give up precious time and attention to cki rather than study, at least from my experience)

Do you really want a list where I messed up?
No. I won't give you that list. It's a sign of weakness, which, yes...I am showing. Buuut...that's not the point of this message.

The point is, for future presidents and CKI leaders, be prepared! First message: be prepared. Elementary in theory, difficult in practice. Shit will get thrown your way, distract you, and soon enough....crap the event is nigh! Then again, maybe it's just me. I see other people who make it look like cake. I'm sorry, but I am working toward that enlightened status. I just hope that this wake up call reaches you future leaders so it doesn't reach you like it did to me. Use your summer and winter break wisely!!

Second message: move on. I am almost done sulking and beating myself up for screwing up. President's don't normally get second chances. So I've been thinking, "crud, I botched my only chance to have a great secret santa bonding event" or " damn, another WaW weekend come and gone and NOBODY KNEW ABOUT IT".

Well, nothing I can do about it now. I SINCERELY APOLOGIZE TO THOSE WHO I HAVE LET DOWN.

You see, feeling guilty about failure shows that you really do care, but at the same time you can't let it slow you down. If you REALLY cared, you wouldn't let it happen again.

I lost sight of why I ran for president in the first place. All I saw were my failures and let them get to me. With all the stress of the past few weeks, it's easy to see that, but so much harder to see all the wins along the way. I've finally taken the time to reflect and see what is truly important to me. Thanksgiving is once a year, but really we should be thankful every day.

I'm thankful for:

the dozens of benefit walks we have helped out and cheered at
the memorable trips to California with new faces
the funky icebreakers that we do
the stories told at happy/sad change
our post meeting socials
all of our awesome videos
our visits to the boys and girls club
helping out at kids carnivals and events
getting swiped into the dining commons
spending a miserable night being homeless together
supporting a contestant in a pageant
meeting a real life hero - a child cancer survivor
scaring kids in a haunted house
bringing Christmas to a family in need
delivering food to the homeless every week
invading and claiming a study room
spending a weekend of getting lost and living in the forest
going out to the middle of nowhere to clean up the environment
getting to know each and every one of my new friends


Every day, we spend so much time thinking about what should have been done or what could have happened. We forget to think about what actually did happen and how much we have grown or experienced from it. I let myself be guided by clouded visions of "what ifs" that I forgot to see what I have always seen from the beginning: an amazing club with awesome potential.

I wasn't ready to lead before. I had no clear vision of the future I would be leading us to. Now I do. It's a new year and we all deserve fresh starts. Let's end this one not by thinking about what could have been, but what has and what will be. I am ready to lead once again, and I hope that you will be willing to help me.

To the new members of UNLV CKI:

In the animal kingdom, there are packs, herds, schools, prides, flocks, colonies...all kinds of groupings for the different species out there.

In CKI we have a family.

In my lifetime, I have been, for the most part, a lone wolf. I was content playing video games without a player two, I didn't join any clubs, and didn't really need a study buddy or anything. Ever since being exposed to CKI, all that has changed.

I was once a freshman member like you - fresh into college, low motivation, high apathy for the things around me. I was kinda forced into my first CKI event by my friend, Calvin Luo. It was there I met Nathan Viloria, the president at the time, and he welcomed me into the club.

Now all of that is history. I had the best time getting to know new people, reaching out to my community, learning fun new games and cheers, being a part of videos, going out to Cali for the first time without my parents, and doing things I never thought I would have done alone. For once in college, I felt like I belonged and it could never have been with a better bunch of people.

It felt like being in a family.

It is with these memories that I ran for president, hoping to create the opportunity for you to experience what I had and much more.

Now you are being installed. The past 2 and a half months have been a crazy ride - just about as crazy as my first year - and I hope you loved every bit of it as much as I did. It was a pleasure getting to know all of you at our projects, during and after meetings, and on the loooong ride to our Cali adventures. I am damn proud of all that you have accomplished as part of the club and welcome you to the next level of your experience.

In CKI, we are a family. I'll admit, it feels weird when I have to be a president and all and tell volunteer coordinators "I have some members coming along," because what I really want to say is "I have my friends coming too". I love each and every one of you, and I can see the potential that you all have. I know you will do great things, whether it be with us or out in the world on your own path, but I can say that tonight I am damn proud to make you officially one of us.

We are a family. We support each other through the good times and the bad. I hope you can count on us when you need a helping hand just as much as you know we will be there to share in the good times. Don't be afraid to step out of your shell, try out new things, live and learn. You will always have the support of your new family, after all.

"...dedicate ourselves to the realization of mankind's potential." It's the line we scream out the loudest in the pledge. You are a member of UNLV Circle K, now. It's your time to shine. It's your time to be the best. I already know you will do great.

Welcome to the family!

The President Position

Hello visitors, curious minds, and bored people. My name is Ryan, and I am the current President of UNLV Circle K International. I have decided that I would like to start documenting some important, or at least what I deem to be important, information using this blogger. Do I have time? Yes. Should I be using it for something else? Yes. Is that something else homework? Yes. However, this is what I deem important and I would like to share it with you.

What is the role of President in Circle K?

This is quite a difficult question. You will spend a weekend with other presidents in the middle of nowhere trying to figure that out. You will attend numerous workshops and have many people tell you different things. You will spend your entire year as president trying to figure it out, and, when you have finally gotten things straight, you are retired and the new president steps in. I, however, will sum it up for you like this.

A president is the club bitch.

Done.

That's it. Plain and simple.

Why do I put it this way? Well, this stems from the NUMBER ONE MOST IMPORTANT ASPECT OF CIRCLE K. Are you listening? It's in caps for a reason. OK.

The NUMBER ONE MOST IMPORTANT ASPECT OF CIRCLE K IS THE....

...members.

It is the member. No, it is not service. It is not fellowship. It is not leadership. The member is what keeps the club alive. It is the member that defines the character of a club. It is the member that chooses how awesome the club will be by choosing how dedicated and committed they are to the club.

So how does this relate to the club president being the club bitch? Well, the president is there to make sure that the members are happy. As president, you make sure that the club is happy and is accomplishing its goals. Therefore, you are making sure the MEMBERS are happy and accomplishing their goals.

You exist to serve. Live to serve, love to serve. The title of president is responsibility. You are accountable for all the crap that your club suffers, but it is the members who get the credit for the accomplishments.

The upside down pyramid. In normal hierarchies, the top of the pyramid is supported by all the subordinates and followers. In this club, the top (the president) is actually the one that supports everyone else. They are in charge of their officers who are in turn in charge of their chairs who are in charge of their committees who are in charge of the regular dedicated members. Ultimately, the president is on the bottom making sure the pyramid is balanced and supported and, following the properties of gravity, if shit happens, it falls on the president's accountability.

It is tough being president, and I know that this year has had its ups and downs. I am not saying it is glamorous or miserable, but it is a lot to take on. I am damn proud of this club and hope for only better goals and hold higher expectations for next year and the generations to come.

As President, I hope that you, the member, are having the time of your college life, are really enjoying yourself, have found a home and new family in this club. I hope you are experiencing a new side of life through community service, are expressing your individuality and exploring new horizons through our leadership opportunities and chances to break out of your comfort bubble, and ultimately, I hope that you are having fun making new friends and creating lasting and supportive relationships with some interesting and diverse individuals.

If I have done this, and you can say that you are happy at this point, then I am being a good President. I will continue to do all I can to make this the best college experience you have ever had. I know there is not much time left to my term, but I will do my best. I love this club and you know that really means I love you.

~Ryan

Thanksgiving 2009

Thanksgiving 2009 (CKI)

For those of you who were there for our UNLVCKI 2009 installation banquet, first of all I’d like to say thanks. Thank you for putting up with that hellish night and for staying with us this long. I hope you have found a home in Circle K and will continue to stick with our awesome organization. Welcome to the club!

Second of all, if you were listening during my service speech rundown, the theme went along the lines of “take a step back”. I talked about looking back at our history, how our club has grown, the impact we have been making on our community and our members, and the awesome service we have done in the past year. Well, I want to take this time out to really “take a step back” and look at what I am so very grateful for in CKI.

Ok, I first have to give thanks to my parents. I don't have a job, and I have no clear direction of where I'm going with my academics, but they still allow me to dedicate so much time, effort, and money to this club. We are going through some rough times right now, but I am glad that I have spent all this time with CKI and I hope my parents will see the fruits of what I have done with this great organization. Thanks Mom and Dad for being so patient with me.

Second, I want to give a special thank you to my board brothers. The board of 4/19 a.k.a ESF (Executive Sausage Fest) has a great chemistry and we work very well with each other and get our stuff done as best we can. Francis, you are doing an awesome job leading us. I know the position of President is stressful and you are often busy with other business, but you always seem able to do what you need to do for the best of CKI. Kevin, my wifey, you are always so busy and working hard on managing our chairs and big events. Your understanding of organizational infrastructure and functionality is surpassed only by your knowledge of fun and video games. Mike, somehow you really do make being secretary a sexy position - you're doing a great job. Also, your energy and enthusiasm, something unheard of in a typical secretarial type person, helps make not just our board, but our club even more loud and awesome. Glen, suave and cool as you keep our checkbook and paper trail neat and organized. You keep professionalism in line along with your quirky jokes and UNLV spirit. Thank you so much guys for making this year friggin epic! We survived the hell months! WOOOOOOOT!

And lastly, but not leastly...THE MEMBERS! Yes YOU, average member! But YOU are not so average in my book. YOU, the member that I see sitting anxiously at the meetings, taking note of the club activities and service projects. YOU the member that I have served with setting up a race, tutoring kids, spreading awareness, making boo boo bunnies, cleaning up the environment, serving ice cream to the elderly, and doing all the service stuff we do. YOU, the member that I have laughed with and played battle ax with or sang karaoke with at a social. YOU, the member who is always asking if they can help or be involved. It is because of YOU that our club is so awesome, that our club has done over 4,000 hours of service and really impacted our community, that our club can be considered a family to other members, that our club is platform from which future leaders can rise....

Thank you. You have really made this year friggin awesome!!!!

As I take this STEP BACK, I am reminded to be thankful for all of this and more. You new members have taken your first STEP FORWARD amongst many into becoming greater people. I am proud and very thankful to be able to aid you, to walk forward with you, in this journey that you have chosen with Circle K.

~Ryan Max Ocampo
UNLVCKI Vice President of Service

General Meeting Recap 10.21.09

Hey Guys!

Here's a recap of events we have for this weekend and next week! I hope you all are in the Halloween spirit b/c a lot of the events involve dressing up, handing out candy, and scaring kids. If you are interested in any of these events please contact the chair of that event. And I hope you all take advantage of this weekend as we celebrate Make A Difference Day. Live to Serve, Love to Serve.

---

Boys & Girls Club
Thursdays & Fridays @ 2:30PM-6:00PM
B.C. McCabe Boys & Girls Club (2801 Stewart Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89101)
Be role models for the kids by helping them with their homework during power hour or supervising them with the many fun activities they have at their facility.

• Thursday Chair - Ariel Canda (702) 379-3289, newsletter.unlvcki@gmail.com
• Friday Chair - Glen Cordero (702) 501-0562, treasurer@unlvcki.com
• Carpool: In front of the Student Union @ 2:00PM.

Halloween Carnival Committee Meeting
Friday, October 23rd @ 12:00PM-2:00PM
Student Union 2nd Floor
Help plan our 4th annual Halloween Carnival on Sat, Oct 31st from 10AM-2PM. We’re inviting the families from Starlight & the B.C. McCabe Boys & Girls Club. Need help with decorations and collecting donations.

• Contact: Francis Casanova (702) 343-6397, president@unlvcki.com

FTC Skit/Spirit/Prop Meeting
Friday,October 23rd @ 4:00PM-6:00PM
Student Union
For FTC Attendees and for whoever wants to help out. Practice Skit, Practice & Create New Cheers, and Make Props & Spirit Items.

• Contact: Arlene Losloso (702) 630-3155, spiritandunity.unlvcki@gmail.com
• Contact: Calvin Luo (702) 883-2316, yearinreview.unlvcki@gmail.com

Make A Difference Day
Friday, October 24th, 2009
Everywhere!
Make A Difference Day is the most encompassing national day of helping others Everyone can participate. Make A Difference Day is an annual event that takes place on the fourth Saturday of every October. Want to particiapte in events we did not bring up at our meeting? Sign-up for other events at www.volunteercentersn.org.


Easter Seals Trunk or Treat
Saturday, October 24th @ 10:00AM-8:00PM
Easter Seals Complex (6200 W. Oakey Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89146)
To help put together a fun and spooky haunted house as well as maintain and facilitate a fun and safe environment.

• Contact: Roxanne Laino (702) 338-0495, publicrelations.unlvcki@gmail.com
• Carpool: In front of the Student Union @ 9:00AM.

Shots 4 Tots
Saturday, October 24th @ 9:00AM-4:00PM
Lorenzi Park (3075 W. Washington Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89107)
Help local children access critical health care and resources. Volunteers are needed to help usher and provide information to participants. We have reached our volunteer capacity.

• Contact: Francis Casanova (702) 343-6397, president@unlvcki.com
• Carpool: In front of the Student Union @ 8:00AM

Lung Walk
Saturday, October 24th @ 8:00AM-12:00PM
UNLV TAM Alumni Center
American Lung Association of Nevada. This annual event is held each fall to raise awareness and funds for our work to fight lung diseases and to promote clean air. ALAN provides vital services and support to adults and children in Southern Nevada who suffer with chronic lung diseases.

• Contact: Ryan Ocampo (702) 577-7628, vpservice@unlvcki.com

Great Pumpkin Run
Saturday, October 30th @ 6:00PM
Cashmen Center - Parking Lot D (850 Las Vegas Blvd. North, Las Vegas, NV 89101)
1 Mile Fun Walk Fundraiser. Dress up and walk for a cause. Register by this Friday, Oct 23rd – Cost: $15.00. Register between Oct 24-28 - Cost: $20.00. Register between Oct 29-30 – Cost: $25.00. Go to www.greatpumpkinrun.com to register.

• Contact: Ryan Ocampo (702) 577-7628, vpservice@unlvcki.com

Boo Bash
Wednesday, October 28th @ 4:30PM-8:30PM
UNLV Tonopah Hall
We will be directing traffic, taking kids on tours, distributing candy and more. We will be decorating at residence halls into haunted houses and allowing kids from more dangerous areas and shelters trick-or-treat through them. Members need to sign-up through this Boo Bash Volunteer Registration Link. Most of us will be at Tonopah.

• Contact: Brett Hosaka (808) 640-0188, brett_hosaka@hotmail.com

Blood Drive
Wednesday, October 28th @ 11:00AM-3:00PM
UNLV Student Union Room 211
Be a Rebel and contribute to the Blood Drive Battle against rival UNR. Each year, the two universities compete to have the highest percentage of donors. Log on to www.bloodhero.com (code: UNLV) or contact Ryan Ocampo to make an appointment. Donors get a free t-shirt.

• Contact: Ryan Ocampo (702) 577-7628, vpservice@unlvcki.com

Blood Drive Tabling
Mond, Oct 26th thru Wed, Oct 28th @ 11:00AM-3:00PM
UNLV Pida Plaza (Outside the Student Union)
Help get people to sign-up for the Blood Drive & table for Circle K. Please contact Ryan to sign up for a shift for Monday,Tuesday,and Wednesday. [Shift 1]11:00AM-12:00PM, [Shift 2]12:00PM-1:00PM, [Shift 3]1:00PM-2:00PM, [Shift 4]2:00PM-3:00PM

• Contact: Ryan Ocampo (702) 577-7628, vpservice@unlvcki.com

M Buffet Social
Wednesday, October 28th @ 8:30PM-10:00PM
The M Resort (12300 Las Vegas Blvd, Henderson, NV 89044)
Since we will be all dressed up for our Formal 4th Meeting, let’s enjoys each other’s company at the M Buffet afterwards. Cost: $23.00.

• Carpool: In front of the Student Union @ After the Meeting

Masquerade Ball
Saturday, November 14th @ 11:00PM-3:00AM
San Diego Harbor (San Diego, CA)
This event is hosted by UCSD Circle K. Their raise over $15,000 last year for PTP. Party on a 3 level yacht with hundreds of other peeps. “Paint the City Red” PTP=Pediatric Trauma Program. Cost: $30.00 due by Friday, Oct 30th.

• Contact: Kevin Goble (702) 577-5200, vpadmin@unlvcki.com

Halloween Carnival
Saturday, October 31st @ 10:00AM-2:00PM
Amazing Clowns Indoor Park (3525 E Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89121)
4th Annual Halloween Carnival. We’re inviting the families from Starlight & the B.C. McCabe Boys & Girls Club.

• Contact: Francis Casanova (702) 343-6397, president@unlvcki.com
• Carpool: In front of the Student Union @ 8:30AM

Cancer: An Overview

- "Hey Sarge! They're everywhere! We keep blastin' em and blastin' em, but they just keep on coming. What are we going to do??"

- "Dammit son, I'll tell you what we are NOT going to do. We are NOT GOING TO GIVE UP! Now pick up your weapon and keep at it. We are making headway."

- "But Sarge! We took out most of OUR guys in the last barrage. I don't think the lines are going to hold much longer."

-"Good grief...you listen here grunt and you listen good. Everyday we fight is another day we keep this place alive. We are not fighting for greed or politics. We are fighting for life, for existence. We cannot give up; it's not an option. We die today or fight and live on. This is not for you and me. This is the fight for this little girl's future. Now get your wits and keep going. The upper breast area is secure, but insurgents have been spotted in the lung and and lower liver."

- "Lung and lower liver? But...those are crucial secure points...if we lose those..."

- "All the more reason to fight, soldier. This little girl's birthday is next week. Let's make sure she gets there. And then lets make sure she gets another. And another after that."

- "Y-y-yes sir! We will not stop until the world celebrates more birthdays."

- "That's right...we won't stop until one day, nobody will have to fear the words..."

"You have cancer..."

__________________________________________________________

In a world full of disaster and war, many seem to forget that there are some things that everybody has to face. One of those things is disease. In particular, there is a killer among us that has no race, creed, or religion, no discrimination or pattern. This killer can strike anywhere, anyone, at anytime. Cancer. When the world fights wars on each other, Cancer fights wars on everyone.

Why are we so pissed at each other when we can all be pissed at Cancer?

Instead of waging war on each other, let's wage war on some common enemies. One: Cancer. Two: Ignorance. Three: Apathy.

So what is cancer? Well, think of cancer as a rebel leader. (Okay, I'm a UNLV Rebel, but I'm talking about bad rebels. You know, the kind that want to do bad stuff like steal candies from babies.) Anyways, this cancer cell well grow unreasonably fast and out of control unlike normal cells. It will continue to grow and multiply and spread. So...imagine a crowded elevator exceeding limit. After a while, there's a bit of discord because of the huge populations in such a small area. Yeah, cancer is like that...spreading badness starting from one spot in the body and going off to create more chaos.

And it has different forms! The cancer bad guy has multiple roles. So, different treatments are necessary to combat him. He's sneaky though. He spreads to other areas of the body causing destruction. And even if you think you've got him, he sometimes reappears out of nowhere - this is called recurrence.

So...that's just the layman's terms of what cancer is. I'm no bio major and big words confuse me, but that's the jist of it. If you want more information on Cancer is, check out the resources at the bottom of this blog.

But now that you know what cancer is, what can you possibly do?

Well...knowledge is power. Know your enemy and you can win the battle. (I think Sun Tsu said something like that) But really, there is something you can do.

Early Detection.

Try stopping a bowling ball when it's lazily rolling down a hill. That's what can be done if cancer is found early. It hasn't picked up momentum, hasn't gained speed, and is not as life threatening.

Try stopping a bowling ball that's falling down a steep cliff. That's what trying to stop cancer is like in it's later stages. It's a difficult process and very delicate and dangerous.

Fundraising.

Yeah, I know. We are poor college kids. Well, unless you are in the medical field and are actively studying to research a cure on cancer, there really isn't much you can do. But...you can give money to the people who can! Research and treatment cost an arm and a leg, and unfortunately, the doctors kinda need more arms and legs. So give your arms....I mean money to organizations that fund research. Host fundraisers and such at local eateries or have booths and games on campus. Consequently, this can help promote...

Awareness.

Yes, people should know. Can't fight an enemy you don't know exists. Tell people about cancer. Tell people how to fight cancer. Get people involved. Make people aware that there is a problem and that something can be and should be done.

I'm sick of fighting wars that can't be won. We will always have our differences. We will always have our likes and dislikes of other people. Get over it. What we can all focus on, something that we all have in common, is our health and well-being. Cancer is threatening this, and should be eliminated.

Join the fight. Equip yourself with knowledge. Visit this page.

www.cancer.org

One day, nobody will fear cancer and more birthdays will be celebrated than ever before.




~Ryan

P.S. This is a very general post. Cancer is much more complicated. This is not the last of cancer themed blogs. I will elaborate on this more. Look out for more! Thanks guys!

"Live to serve, Love to serve."

10 Year Anniversary Weekend Activities

10 Year Anniversary Weekend Activities

Hey Guys!

This weekend we celebrate 10 years of Service, Leadership, and Fellowship since the charter of our Circle K club 10 years ago. Please join us in any of the activities we have for this weekend. Thanks in advance for sharing this special time with us.

10 Year Anniversary Banquet
Friday, October 9th @ 8:00PM-MIDNIGHT [Today]
Lahaina Grill (4570 S Hualapai Way, Las Vegas, NV 89147)
Food. Speakers. Dance. Countdown. Celebrating 10 years of Service, Leadership, & Fellowship. Semi-Formal Attire. Cost: $15.00 at the Door.

• Contact: Francis Casanova (702) 343-6397, president@unlvcki.com
• Carpool: In front of the Student Union @ 7:00PM.

Las Vegas Natural History Museum
Saturday, October 10th @ 9:00AM-12:00PM
Las Vegas Natural History Museum (900 Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89101)
We would be helping with the landscaping those hours. Max of 15 volunteers.

• Contact: Jennifer Staples (702) 286-7898, awards.unlvcki@gmail.com
• Carpool: In front of the Student Union @ 8:00AM.

Heart Walk w/ CSN Circle K
Saturday, October 10th @ 8:00AM-11:00AM
Mountains Edge Park (9700 S Buffalo Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89178)
We are helping with setup and other tasks. This walk benefits the American Heart Association.

• Contact: Chantal Kaula (702) 768-8055, ccskaula@gmail.com

Buddy Walk w/ CSN Circle K
Saturday, October 10th @ 1:00PM-5:00PM
Kellogg Zaher Park (7901 W. Washington Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89128)
We are helping with setup and other tasks. This walk benefits the Down Syndrome Organization of Southern Nevada.

• Contact: Chantal Kaula (702) 768-8055, ccskaula@gmail.com

Super Board Meeting
Saturday, October 10th @ 2:00PM-4:00PM
Student Union Room 207
Board meeting with Executive Officers & Committee Chairs. Updates on what we have all been up to & make some decisions regarding the club. Open to all members. Professional Attire.

• Contact: Kevin Goble (702) 577-5200, vpadmin@unlvcki.com

CKI 101 Workshops
Saturday, October 10th @ 4:00PM-6:00PM
Student Union Room 207
Learn more about Circle K and the different things that we do that help make our club so great. A history lesson, leadership workshop, and the Kiwanis Family structure.

• Contact: Kevin Goble (702) 577-5200, vpadmin@unlvcki.com

Renaissance Fair Social
Saturday, October 10th @ 6:00PM-10:00PM
Sunset Park (2601 E Sunset Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89120)
Jousting! Knights! Damsels! Pirates! Feasts! Turkey legs! Here are some events. Pick whichever one you think sounds best: Belly Dancers of Endless, Snake Army, Swagger, War Horse Productions, The Wild - Bone Dance, Royal Ball. Cost: $10.00. Bring extra money for food.

• Contact: Arlene Losloso (702) 630-3155, spiritandunity.unlvcki@gmail.com

CKI South Practice
Sunday, October 10th @ 3:00PM-5:00PM
UNLV, Field next to the Rec Center
Practice the mini games so we can win! Open to all members. Human Pyramid, Jump Rope, Skin the Snake, and other games…

• Contact: Glen Cordero (702) 501-0562, treasurer@unlvcki.com

Introducing: VPS Service Spotlights

Hi Everyone,

It's Ryan Ocampo (a.k.a ryno) here, your Vice President of Service. Just wanted to thank you first and foremost for taking the time out of your busy lives to check out our club's very own blog site thing. We will be using this to post info about our club, event info, and overall general overflow of info (because as you know, our meetings are looooong).

So, a little about me....

I'm a sophmore and undeclared.

I'm your Vice President of Service.

I live to serve.

I love to serve.

If you want to know more, talk to me.

So my main goal for this is to have to club use the blogger as a tool to stay up to date and communicate (cool rhyme). Yes, we have an e-mail reflector, youtube site, and facebook, but to save you from spam and info not as important (it is to me!) we have this blog site. So, come check it out sometime!

I have to do homework, but I'll try to leave a post at least once a week Monday nights: Service Spotlight. Anything else will just be a Rant.

Alright, thanks for listening guys!!!

You're awesome!

Welcome!

Greetings Visitor!

Circle K is the largest collegiate community service in the world! Clubs can be found in several different countries and across our nation. Our mission is to serve the children of the world and it starts here in our local Las Vegas community.

I am fortunate enough to have enjoyed this club for three years, now going into my fourth. And as President this year, I guarantee you can expect some great things from our awesome club. You'll find enthusiastic and innovative individuals in our club who genuinely have a passion to serve others.

This year marks the 10 year anniversary of our chartering date. 10 years of amazing Service, Leadership, & Fellowship! Our club theme this term is School is Cool! "Service is now in Session." Times are tough and we need to take an active approach in making a difference in our community and being role models for our youth. Please serve with us!