The Optimists Club wants to thank all the merchants who supplied gift cards for the Christmas Bonanza this year. We collected a total of $2,500 in cards, which gave us enough cards to draw three winners! Winning $1,000 in gift cards were; Chuck Flagg and J. D. Brockett. Winning $500 in gift cards was Kylie Milliken. Congratulations to our winners! Also a big pat on the back to all the members who sold tickets and for those of you that bought tickets. The club will use that money for scholarships and programs for the youth in our community. 

The club had its annual Christmas Party in January at Grecian Gardens. A great meal was had by all, and a fun white elephant gift exchange game was played.

Teacher’s names drawn for a $50 check to use for their classrooms were; Jennifer Tarabulski, South School; Ben Osman, CEC; and Lindsay Hanson, Mossville. Congratulations!

Our fundraisers; garage sale, flag day, chili supper, Christmas Bonanza, and bake sales provide money for our teachers each month for their classrooms, posters, and other contests for the kids, money to St. Jude’s, and scholarships for high school students each year. We also use our money to do community projects like providing the Eagle Telescope, a handicapped picnic table at Shore Acres Park, and a bench downtown.

February 6th is National Optimist’s Day...a day to recognize the volunteers who work to support our youth and make their communities a better place to live.  For more information about our club, contact Jackie at 309-397-1968 or Sherry at 309-678-8951.

Until next time.....stay Optimistic