December is such a wonderful time of year. Although it signals the coming of the cold winter months, it also gives us time to reflect on our blessings, expressing appreciation to friends and family, and to celebrate achievements we've had throughout the year. We can also take this time to rest and recharge, and to acknowledge life's positives and strengthen bonds with others.

The Christmas Parade is always a grand event to kick off the Christmas season, and our Optimists were there in full force with our float, selling Bonanza tickets, and providing delicious baked goods and hot chocolate to all.

Watch for us ringing the bell for the Community Needs Agency at Kroger’s and stop and say hello, and donate to an organization that helps so many in our community.

If you haven't done so already, don't forget to take a child's name from the gift-giving trees at Geiger’s, Pearce, Kroger, the Library, or Molly’s Pizza and return it unwrapped to the store. On December 19th, the Optimists will gather at Three Sisters Park at 9am to sort and bag all the toys we have collected through the businesses to give away with the food basket. Anyone can come and help us; you don't have to be a member of the club.

Our club is still out selling Christmas Bonanza tickets. Tickets are still only $10 again this year, and we will sell tickets up to and at the CNA Christmas Basket distribution at Three Sisters Park on December 20th. Remember that this is a fundraiser for the Optimists that the club turns around and uses to help our youth and our community. So be sure and get your tickets to win $1000 in gift cards!

Teachers' names drawn this month are: Kate McGee/South School, Kathy Puterbaugh/CEC, and Bryan Holmes Mossville. Each teacher will receive a check for $50 to use in their classroom. 

In closing, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a bright and fruitful New Year. May God bless you all!  

As always... stay Optimistic, it’s the only way to be!