Reminder for our friends and fellow Optimists

Reminder that there is no meeting again this coming Monday 1/3/11 due to the holiday.

The next meeting will be a Board Meeting on Saturday, January 8th at 7:30 am at the Sunrise.

Have a safe and happy New Year!!

Wii Charter Banquet a Success

The Wii Charter Party Installation Banquet was a great success with 35-plus in attendance. Rocky Jackson, Vice President, Optimist International and Linda Jackson, Governor 2009-2010, Pacific Northwest District presented President Pat Halpin with the club banner and bell and gavel as well as the President’s charter and Club Charter.

We appreciated the presence and support of Caldwell Optimist Club President, Anita Welchel and members and Meridian Club Secretary/Treasurer Bill Garcia and members.

Our keynote speaker, Dr. Vincent Muli Wa Kituku, delivered an inspiring message recognizing Optimist Club members for their effort and work towards making a difference in the lives of kids. He shared childhood memories and experiences, which were lacking in material things but rich in dreams. Some important points to remember were that poverty is not about not having things, poverty is not having dreams; and one person alone may not be able to do a lot to overcome the challenges that threaten youth, but the organized efforts of many can increase the chance of success. Mr. Kituku is a supporter of Optimist Football and a supporter of youth’s dreams. You can find out more at http://www.kituku.com/.

The children had a great time playing and competing in Wii bowling and Wii golf. The winners were Kaydence (last name not available) and Anthony Cabrera in the children’s tournament and Robert Boguslawski won both adult tournaments.

Mr. Kituku drew the winning ticket for the 55” TV. The winner was Gretchen Brown of Integrity Financial in Eagle. She was very pleased and seemed to be in shock stating “I’ve never won anything”. Well you can’t say that any more, Gretchen. Congratulations!!

Many thanks to everyone who helped make this success possible. Thank you Sybil Arnett who regaled us with her beautiful voice and thank you Mrs. Bertlesen for her accompaniment on the piano. Thank you to Oregon Trail Church of God for being such gracious hosts. Thank you to Bob Arnett who worked tirelessly all evening to ensure things ran smoothly. And a BIG thank you to all of you who supported the TV raffle fundraiser by purchasing tickets.

Let your optimism come true this holiday season. Happy Holidays