The Optimist Club of Gettysburg met on Wednesday, January 3, 2018 at the Gettysburg Lutheran Seminary Refectory.  A delicious chicken dinner was prepared by Biggerstaff Catering.

President Dan Mattern welcomed (14) members and (1) guest. Dan opened the evening with the invocation and pledge. Dinner was served.

Evening Agenda:

1. Dan recognized Ted Sayres for being Santa Claus, Stacey and staff for providing a delicious Christmas dinner, and Al Parone for bringing a guest, Joe Parone.
2. Reports: President’s report given by Dan, Secretary’s report emailed by Daryl was approved, and Treasure’s report given by Tom.
3. Committee Reports:
   1. Basketball (Kris and Mindy) – Kris reported that our first date is this Saturday, 1-6, and coaches are still needed. Joe MacDowell and members are setting up lower height hoops for the children.
   2. Christmas/ Magic Show (Doug) – The show was a success and money is still being received.
   3. Oyster / Shrimp Feed (Wayne and Stacey) – The date is set for March 24. The word is START SELLING TICKETS NOW!!!!
   4. Golf (Bruce) Every member is being asked to help get sponsors and foursomes. If all 33 Optimist members each get a $500.00 sponsor the Optimist Golf Tournament will be a huge success!!!! If you prefer Daryl or Bruce will phone potential sponsors, just email name and phone number.
   5. Membership – Dan initiated discussion regarding ways to increase club membership. Many ideas were brainstormed. The officers and board of directors will review the suggestions and discuss the next step. (*See attached document for list of new membership ideas.)
   6. Fundraiser – Stacey and Darlene introduced parking cars at the Gettysburg Wine and Music Festival, Saturday and Sunday, September 8th & 9th sponsored by the Gettysburg Adams Chamber of Commerce as a new fundraiser. Club members at the meeting were all in agreement that the club needs to pursue this opportunity.

Member Update:

Walt Jones recently had knee replacement. Members wish Walt a speedy recovery.

Upcoming Dates:

• 1/17/18 Next Optimist meeting @ Gettysburg Seminary Refectory
• 1/06/18 Optimist Basketball starts see our website for registration information
• 3/24/18 Oyster/Shrimp Fundraiser @ Gettysburg Fire Hall
• 5/17/18 Golf Tournament Fundraiser @ The Links at Gettysburg

Optimist Membership Ideas

Respectfully Submitted,

Daryl Aurand, Secretary

Wishing everyone a joyous Merry Christmas and a prospers New Year. See you in 2018 and safe travels.

Optimistically,
Dan Mattern

Optimist Club of Gettysburg Christmas Celebration Party December 13, 2017

The Optimist Club of Gettysburg met on Wednesday, December 13, 2017 at the Gettysburg Lutheran Seminary Refectory. The Refectory was decorated in the Christmas spirit.

A fantastic Christmas dinner was prepared by Biggerstaff’s Catering.

President Dan Mattern welcomed (31) members and guests along with (8) children. Wayne Hill opened the evening with the invocation. Dinner was served.

Evening Agenda:

Members of our Gettysburg HS Orchestra provided us with beautiful Christmas music before dinner. Dan presented the orchestra with a check for ($500.00)

After dinner Kris and Mindy Accardi provided a craft table for all children.

President Dan then announced if we would sing out loud enough we might be able to lure Santa Claus to visit with us. Wayne then jumped at the opportunity to lead all the children and adults in singing Christmas Carols. To our surprise Santa Claus appeared and all of our children had the chance to sit on Santa’s knee and received a gift. It was a great night for all.

Upcoming Dates:

• Salvation Army Bell Ringing 12/21/17
• Next Optimist meeting @ Gettysburg Seminary Refectory 01/03/2018
• Optimist Basketball starts 01/06, see our website for registration information
• 3/24/18 Oyster/Shrimp Fundraiser @ Gettysburg Fire Hall, call Stacey for tickets
• 5/17/18 Golf Tournament Fundraiser @ The Links at Gettysburg

Respectfully Submitted, Daryl Aurand, Secretary