VOL. 61, No. 29, May 3, 2007


Since Pres. Sidney couldn't make today's meeting, Pres-Elect Connie presided. Duane Plank gave the invocation and led us in the pledge to the flag. Unfortunately, there were no guests today. We're currently having excellent programs and a guest just might be enticed to join up, but we have to invite. Connie thanked Matt Hancock for overseeing our appreciation of youth special program last week. Al Renz recognized Clayton Hanna for achieving PGI Level 1.

Gov. Casteel reported on last week's board meeting in Tupelo. He said our club was well represented. Tom also pushed the dime-a-day program to fund Optimist International scholarships. He presented pins to those who have already contributed at least $36.50, namely: Clarke, Law, Plank, Renz, Thompson, Lowe and Duarte. It seemed as if several others were on the verge of signing up. Tom said we lead the District, but Mobile has vowed to beat us out. Don't let it happen! Big news from the District is the Alabama/ Mississippi and Louisiana Districts will merge next year. The District Governor will be elected at the Meridian meeting in October. Being from Louisiana Connie is looking forward to District meetings in that state when she is our President.

Al Renz introduced Dexter Nilsson who had many fascinating stories about how streets and various other locations got their names. It seems that the bulk of the names came from 3 periods: early settlers around the beginning of the 19th century, the emergence of cotton mills about 1870, and Redstone Arsenal in mid-20th century when the watercress capital changed over to rocket city. Dex has written a book which includes over 250 naming stories, and he offered copies at a considerable discount from bookstore prices and personally autographed. I noticed many taking him up on his generous offer. George Ferrell won the drawing again.

Following the meeting, Duane visited Fred Binner in the hospital. When he entered the room Fred greeted him with "God Bless America." They talked briefly. Plans are for Fred to go home on Friday, May 4. Duane said he seemed to be in good spirits.

If you haven't signed up for the Respect for Law dinner, call Alberto.

CONCERTS

SCHOOL DATE TIME PLACE OPTIMIST OFFICIAL
Huntsville Middle School MAY 8 7:00 Huntsville MIddle School Gym Carl Winkler/Al Renz
Challenger Middle School MAY 8 7:00 Grissom High School Gym John Shirey
Westlawn Middle School MAY 15 6:30 Westlawn Middle School (Gym or Bandroom) Carl Winkler/Al Renz
Sparkman Middle School MAY 15 6:00 Sparkman Middle School Sidney Sandridge/Clyde Nevins
Davis Hills Middle School MAY 15 6:30 Davis Hills Middle School Gym David Schultz
Chapman Middle School MAY 17 6:30 Chapman Middle School Lunch Room Bob Martin
Riverton Middle School MAY 17 7:00 Huntsville High School Auditorium Bill Clarke
Liberty Middle School MAY 21 6:30 Bob Jones High School Carl Winkler/Al Renz


CALENDAR

May 7 Monday 6:30 pm Zone - Respect for Law Banquet Mayfair Church of Christ
May 10 Thursday 11:45 am Downtown Holiday Inn Ralph Petroff - Alabama Image Initiative
May 17 Thursday 11:45 am Optimist Recreation Center Business Meeting
May 24 Thursday 11:45 am Downtown Holiday Inn Larry Daniel - DA's Office
May 31 Thursday 11:45 am Downtown Holiday Inn Dr. Rao Kakani - Philosophy of Life
Carl W.