VOL. 61, No. 12, January 4, 2007

Pres. Sidney Sandridge called on Percy Law to open today's meeting with a prayer followed by the pledge of allegiance. Then guests were introduced. Carl Winkler proudly introduced his grandson Graham Burkett. Duane's guest was his wife Elaine, and Fabiani was introduced by Clyde. Gov. Castelil reminded members to make their reservations early for the next District board meeting since the Senior Bowl will be held that same weekend in Mobile.

Al Renz reported that the Sparkman JOOI club was now officially in operation, and that a letter of congratulations had been received from Optimist International noting that it was the 1st such club formed in the District this Optimist year. Al further pointed out his PGI charts on the back wall of the room, and added that he was ready to advance one member up one level shortly.

Al Castelli is arranging for another social event in the spirit of this year's objective to promote fellowship. He has picked Saturday, Feb. 17 at our previous meeting place, the Elks Lodge on Franklin Street for the party. The theme will be Valentine's Day, so pick your best Valentine and plan to attend. This would be a good time to invite another couple to come and learn what our club is doing for the community. Al said the Elks will be celebrating some occasion and will have a dance band which we are welcome to enjoy if we so desire. The meal will feature chicken for $10 or steak for a little more. Al will keep us informed as his plans firm up.

Bob Martin asked that those on the community outreach committee be prepared to meet for about 20 minutes following next week's regular luncheon meeting. He will be reminding committee members via e-mail. Next week's meeting has been arranged by Byrom. The speaker will be Marcy McFarhn who will describe the illicit drug problems prevalent in Madison County.

Byrom introduced today's speaker. Dr. Gary Huckaby gave a very entertaining and inspirational talk about leadership. It was a pleasure to have a speaker with such a trained and resonant voice so that everyone could catch every word without any PA system. He said leadership is the product of good interpersonal skills. These include good listening, getting to know the wants and needs of those you are in contact with, and always with a sense of humor. He made several significant illustrations, e. g., don't expect others to change to adapt to your wishes, but you (yourself) be determined to make required changes; enjoy your situation as it is - it's later than you think; always find ways to, put some humor in your life; life is good if you let it be; be a little more forgiving; build abridge and get over it. We're currently having very excellent programs. Think of inviting a guest to share our brand of optimism with.

After drawing several names of members not in attendance Gary drew out Byrom's name for the money pot.

CALENDAR

Jan 9		Tuesday		4:00 pm		Gay's Bank (Whitesburg)		Board Meeting
Jan 11		Thursday		11:45 am		Downtown Holiday Inn		Marcy McFarlin
Jan 18		Thursday		11:45 am		Optimist Recreation Center		Business Meeting
Jan 25		Thursday		11:45 am		Downtown Holiday Inn		Dr. John Ennis ??
Carl W.