VOL. 60, No. 46, September 21, 2006


I forgot to include in last week's bulletin a request for donations of dental and medical supplies for the HEALS Clinic. Recall the clinic is located just behind the Lincoln School on Meridian Street. Our president feels strongly about supporting this youth-oriented clinic for kids in need right here in Madison County. Please bring drug-store items to the Installation Meeting on 9/28.

Pres. Will welcomed Perry Law as our newest member. That's right - the mafia strikes again. Will needs 3 more new members by 9/30 to end his year even. Will reported that the pancake breakfast was again a successful fund raiser, but ticket sales by the church was somewhat disappointing. Those who worked on this project are to be not only congratulated, but also thanked. We sang "Happy Birthday" for Will. He said he felt like 18, with 42 years of experience.

As part of the Optimist PGI (personal growth and involvement) Program Duane Plank had two of our newer members speak briefly on Optimism. Glen Smith described himself as a recovering pessimist. As a law enforcement officer he said optimism was both critical and challenging in his line of work. He gave examples where a positive outlook had made a very rewarding difference. Bob Martin, an electronics engineer said he was proud of the 4 kids he helped raise to become successful citizens. He cited numerous activities along the way. Sometimes it seems they were raised in his station wagon. All now have degrees and are church members.

We covered a lot of ground at today's last business meeting of the Optimist year. Jeff Klimek led us through his financial report, explaining several adjustments to the numbers. He presented the budget for next year which has been worked out with in-coming President Sidney Sandridge. We voted to continue meeting at the Downtown Holiday Inn - at least through the rest of the calendar year. A dues increase from $100 to $110 per quarter passed. To keep cost down we agreed to accept the Downtown Holiday Inn standard free set up of 3 parallel aligned tables. Any other arrangements will increase cost. This is still being worked. Tom Casteel has been looking at public address systems for our meetings. Due to the length of our meeting today we weren't able to learn the details other than we're looking at a $600 outlay. Pres. Will says the $$ will be there.

Remember no lunch meeting this week 9/28. Instead, well hear Will's thoughts about his year as our leader. Then well send him into retirement, and welcome Pres. Sidney Sandridge to the helm. Will promises a top catered meal at the Optimist Recreation Center, starting at 6:30 pm, Thurs., Sept. 28. Make every effort to learn what the Godfather's offer is that we can't refuse!



CALENDAR


Sep 28 Thursday 6:30 pm Optimist Recreation Center Installation of Officers
Carl W.