VOL. 59, No. 22, Mar. 31, 2005
We had a good crowd at our Optimist luncheon at the Hilton today - nearly 40. There was a bit of scurrying around to find seats for everyone, but this is the kind of problem we like. Alberto Duarte was back from his successful missionary work in Honduras in time to preside. Many members we haven't seen in awhile were in attendance, including Duane Williamson and Terence Brown. Terence said he is rearranging his schedule in order to open up. Thursdays for Optimist meetings, and he said he had a freezer full of deer steaks to support any cookout we might arrange.

Moments of History - born on this date: Rene Descarte (1596), Herb Alpert (1935), Richard Chamberlain (1935), Al Gore (1948); Eiffel Tower dedicated (1889), etc.

President Alberto had our several new members (resulting from our recent NOW banquet) tell a little about themselves - Tim Brumlow, Hal Escue, Annette Anderson, Fred Binner, and Anna from Colombia. Welcome aboard to all! Then Alberto reminded board members of the April 5 board meeting and the April 22-24 District Board Meeting in Tupelo. Mary Hix announced that next Thursday, April 7, the club will celebrate YAW (youth appreciation week) at 6:30 at the Hilton - no luncheon meeting on that day. Mary encouraged a good turnout to welcome eleven outstanding young people, their parents and sponsors. Quite often this meeting interests parents to inquire about club membership.

Our main speaker was introduced by Gay Pepper. Veronica Wilder discussed the many facets of Crestwood Hospital's Active Advantage Program for those 50 years old and beyond. Some of our members qualify for the beyond category. The program offers seniors a healthier and happier lifestyle. Of particular interest are monthly get-togethers over lunch and regular planned and exciting travel experiences.

Clyde Nevins won the attendance prize again.



CALENDAR

April 5		Tuesday		4:00 pm		First Commercial Bank		Board Meeting
April 7		Thursday		TBA		Hilton		Youth Appreciation Banquet
April 14		Thursday		11:45 am		Hilton		Y&R Dream Band
April 21		Thursday		11:45 am		Optimist Recreation Center		Business Meeting
April 28		Thursday		11:45 am		Hilton		Camille Solley, Director Big Brothers & Big Sisters of Alabama