Optimist Meeting Minutes, Nov. 19, 2014

President Kris called the meeting to order and introduced guests for the evening:

Lt. Governor Dallas Smith

Special Olympics guests, Ms. Terry Sickles, Program Director, Alex Harner, and Ms. Bailey.

Invocation: Sam Isenberger

There are 150 athletes involved in the Special Olympics program in Adams County (40% under age 18).The mission is year around sports training for those who are intellectually impaired (not necessarily physically impaired). All activities of the participants choosing are free. However, the Special Olympics Organization pays the fees, transportation, lodging (if they go onto state, national , world events). There is an obvious need for funding.

There will be a Specal Olympics “golf challenge” at the Bridges golf course in the Spring. There will be a need for sponsors, golfers, and volunteers.

Benefits: Encourages independence building, self confidence, gives families a support network, gives athelete and parents a respite from relationship which is of value to both. There are 12 sports available. Bowling, swimming, golf,kayaking, bocci, volleyball to name a few. Coaches are needed – even with minimal experience.

Summer games are at Penn State, Fall games at Villanova, Winter games in Johnstown. States are at Penn State.

Alex Harner, Special Olympian, spoke about his experiences since age 8 (now 23). Social developement and making friends is a great benefit. He attended World Games in Greece – a life long memory.  We sang happy Birthday to Ms. Bailey and gave her a small cake and candle.

Lt. Gov. Dallas Smith from the East York Club (all York clubs have merged) commended Gettysburg for its great programs.   A framed print was presented to President Kris for Club support of the Optimist Foundation ($500/yr for about 10 years). The next Zone meeting will be Monday Nov. 24th at Alexander’s restaurant at 6:30.

Reports:

Treasurer – General Fund $425.17; Activities Fund $10,330.93   Tom has taken care of tax preparation for this year. The Magic Show is doing well and is exceeding expectations. At special thank you goes to the Eagles Club for their $500. donation.

Bruce Bradshaw had his knee surgery and is at home and doing well. Send him an email!

Magic Show – Dec. 12, 7PM at Lincoln Elementary. Thanks for your good work Doug!

Mindy reports basketball sign ups will be December 7th and 14th from 9-11 AM at the Gettysburg Middle School cafeteria. The season will be 7 weeks long with no practice on Jan 31st.

Oyster Feed will be Saturday Feb.28th with prep Friday nt, at 6PM at the Firehall.

Optimist Christmas Party will be December 10th at 6:30PM at the Refectory. Members and guests are $25. each,  and children under ten are free. BYOB. Presents “from Santa” should be brought by parents and placed under the tree. Mindy may have a photo op for children in antler ears, Santa’s cap, etc. Good Fun!

No regular meetings in December!!

Recorded by Walt Jones