July is the month we think of patriotism. Specifically, the 4th of July reminds us of all the freedoms we have in this country and how very blessed we are to live here in one nation under God. We know freedom is not free, may we never forget the cost is high and the women and men who have died for that freedom and paid the price for all of us.

In June, our flag sale went very well. Each year, the Optimist’s club sells flags to raise money to fund the three scholarships we give and projects throughout the year. Thank you to all who stopped and bought flags, and gave a donation to fund our work with our youth here in this town.

Our photo contest, “Through the Eyes of Youth,” has been put on hold right now. Watch for more updates about the contest this fall.

Next month the club will be celebrating 40 years of service here in Chillicothe. Because of one man’s efforts for 40 years, the club has been giving back to our youth. Harry Crull established the first club in  Chillicothe those many years ago. He heard about Optimist Clubs in other cities and began talking to a few businessmen to join with him and stand beside the young people in our town. A few years later his wife, Marian, became the first woman Optimist in Illinois. Ever since that first meeting, the club has been raising money to fund high school scholarships and projects for our town to make this a better place to live. The club will celebrate with a meeting and picnic at Shore Acres Park in August. We hope to have Harry at that picnic and honor him for establishing the club and for all the work he has done over the years.

If you would like to get involved with our club, we meet the first and third Saturdays at Grecian Gardens at 8am for a breakfast meeting. We would love to have you join us.

Have a great summer and stay cool. Until next month.......stay optimistic!