VOL. 60, No. 4, October 27, 2005

We met today at the Holiday Inn - Select with over 30 in attendance, including 6 guests (prospective members). We were treated to an outstanding speaker, so let's follow through and sign up these visitors. President Will welcomed the guests, and asked them each to tell a little about themselves. Next he called on Hershel for the prayer and the pledge, and invited all committee heads to attend the Board meeting scheduled for 4:00 pm Tues., Nov. 1 at Gay's bank.

Will next introduced our speaker, Charles Wiley, who has lectured worldwide. He spoke essentially of news reporting, and the role' that the media plays in defining our nation's agenda. Wiley classified journalists into 2 categories: objective reporters who inform without adding their personal bias, and advocate reporters who manipulate or slant the news to achieve their own personal objectives (usually to enhance their financial status). fit was one of the most thought-provoking programs we've had in some time, and from what the speaker was concluding (that our world leadership is in jeopardy) - it's a vital time to be an Optimist. He sees a widening gap growing between some young people striving to enter successfully into adulthood, and many others having little ambition - willing to settle for being eternal teenagers. Furthermore, he observes the trend for the American male into the latter category was highly disturbing. Mr. Wiley has talked with young people across the country and around the world and concludes they all desire, and indeed thirst for, conversation on an adult level. Many have never experienced this. The challenge to our club and other Optimist Clubs is clear. We must not let our country slip into mediocrity or worse. Wiley was of the opinion that our No. 1 status as a world leader is threatened from several directions. I think he sees the media playing a major role in getting us out of this dilemma -- not the politicians. We need more programs like this to renew the inspiration of our club this year to "Bring Out the Best In Kids".

Byrom Goodwin won today's attendance prize.

CALENDAR

Nov 1		Tuesday		4:00 pm		1st Commercial Bank		Board Meeting
Nov 3		Thursday		11:45 am		Holiday Inn Select		TBA
Nov 16		Wednesday		4:00 pm		Regions Trust Department		Optimist Foundation
Nov 17		Thursday		11:45 am		Optimist Recreation Center		Business Meeting
Nov 24		Thursday				NO MEETING		Thanksgiving
Carl W.