Catching up with K-Kids

by Danny Maerten

The recently established K-Kids (Kiwanis Kids) at Errick Road Elementary School hosted an assembly in the school's gymnasium back on Dec. 10. The assembly for 595 students centered on caring, was administered by gym teacher Anthony Vekich, school counselors Jenn Henry and Liz Antonelli.

The K-Kids began by introducing the program with each of the 15 students delivering a line or two on the program's agenda, the five character teammates: caring, fairness, respect, responsibility and honesty. A short video on caring was shown to those assembled, after which skits where performed demonstrating good character vs. bad character. Special guests were the champion Niagara-Wheatfield boys hockey team and the Buffalo Sabres' Sabretooth.

The K-Kids presented a check for $607.17 to Olivia's Bears. Olivia Gonyea, a former Errick Road student, created Oliva's Bears. She was only 8 years old when she was diagnosed with Ewings sarcoma, a form of cancer. She received many well wishes and gifts, including a stuffed bear. After she went into remission, she decided to return the warm, thoughtful gesture, by making and delivering bears to children at Roswell Park Cancer Institute and Children's Hospital.

The last item on the agenda was the "Chicken Dance" where the entire gym grew a little crazy, reminding everyone we all need to move, and get more physical activity.

The K-Kids also have participated with the West Street K-Kids, writing letters to military personnel.

Next on the K-Kids itinerary is a fundraiser to benefit the Buffalo Humane Society. The K-Kids plan to reward the classroom that donates the most with an ice cream sundae party. They, as well as the K-Kids of West Street, also will be invited to assist in serving at the Mach 23 Niagara-Wheatfield Kiwanis Club's annual Pancake Breakfast.

The group is advised by Henry and Antonelli, and is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Niagara-Wheatfield. Members include Olivia McDonald, Delaney Wegrzyn, Alexandria Sorge, Hannah Sherman, Gabriella Fletcher, Lily Conroy, Keira Wierzbowski, Jenna Augugliaro, Anthony Cianciosa, Evan Helfrich, Shannon Snowberger, Katie Bergstrom, Lily Adamshick, Madison Sesnie and Danny Sorge.