VOL. 61, No. 47, September 13, 2007

We didn't have a great turnout today (about 25). Those who chose not to come missed out on a` good program. Pres. Sidney Sandridge called on Duane Plank to get things started with an expression of gratitude for our many blessings, followed by the pledge of allegiance.

Pres.-Elect Connie passed around a sign-up sheet, giving members the opportunity to pick a month for the arranging of luncheon speakers during the coming Optimist year; and a second sheet for the privilege of surprising us with imaginative food for our monthly business meetings at the Optimist Recreation Center (ORC). Sidney urges that everyone plan to attend the October 4 Special Meeting at the ORC for the purpose of installing our 2007/2008 Officers and Board of Directors. Note - this meeting will convene at 6:00 pm. It will include a motivational speaker, a musical program, and excellent food to supplement our installation activities. Sidney says - invite many guests.

Alberto reminded us to keep selling tickets for our pancake breakfast at the Central Presbyterian Church, Saturday, September 29, 7:30-11:30 am. It was good to have Al Renz back with us today.

Jeff Klimek introduced today's luncheon speaker, Harold D. Fanning, who has served 25 years as a Southern Baptist pastor. He has recently had two books published, "Life Along a Dirt Road" and "Life in the Skillet." Following his talk he sold autographed copies of both. I purchased one of the former which he said depicts his growing-up years, and written mostly with his grandchildren in mind. Harold offered to let us draw for a copy of each book. These were won by Duane Plank and Clyde Nevins. The speaker related a broad range of interesting stories, but his main theme centered on the Bible story of the good Samaritan. He felt the idea of being a good neighbor fit in well with our Optimist's principles. I think his remarks can be captured by something I once read. "The rich in spirit help the poor in one grand brotherhood; and blessed is he who seeth his brother's needs and supplieth them, seeking his own in another's good."

Business meeting this week at the ORC. Bob Martin won the $$$ today.

CALENDAR

September 20		Thursday		11:45 am		Optimist Recreation Center		Business Meeting
September 27		Thursday		11:45 am		Downtown Holiday Inn		Tom Ewing- Gen. Mgr. WAAY FM
September 29		Saturday		07:30 to 11:30 am		Central Presbyterian Church		Pancake Breakfast
October 4		Thursday		6:00 pm		Optimist Recreation Center		Installation of Officers
Carl W.