The Optimist Club of Gettysburg met on Wednesday, October 18,2023 at the Mansion House, Fairfield PA for our annual officers and board of directors’ installation banquet. We were treated to hors d’oeuvres and a delicious meal.

We had 29 members and guests in attendance.

We began the evening with President Gary welcoming all in attendance. Joe Mac Dowell led us with the invocation.

Business Meeting:

Gary opened the meeting with the announcement of the completion of a great Optimist year while he was president. Gary thanked all the members for their support throughout the 2022-2023 Optimist year.

Outgoing President Gary reviewed the past year and thanked the 2022-2023 officers: Randy, Al, and Daryl; Board of Directors: Fred, Wayne, Dan and Brian; as well as all members and spouses for their support.

The main order of business was the installation of new officers and Board of Directors for 2022-2023 by Past President Gary: (Officers) President-Brent Smith, Secretary-Daryl Aurand, and Treasurer-Randy Smith, (Board of Directors) Fred Darling, Wayne Hill, Gary Rappoldt and Brian Skidmore.

Newly elected President Brent Smith addressed the membership and his appreciation for the efforts from all members in making the Optimist Club of Gettysburg a great organization. President Brent looks forward to yet another year for our Gettysburg Optimist Club carrying our mission to the youth of our community.

The meeting ended with Wayne Hill leading us in the recitation of the “Optimist Creed”.

Upcoming Dates:

10/25/2023 Board meeting at “Four Score” 5PM and Membership Social 6PM
11/1/2023 Optimist Meeting, location Deatrick Village Community Center 6PM
11/9/2023 Adams CO Foundation Giving Spree (We are #71)
12/6/2023 Optimist Family Christmas Party @ Gettysburg Fireman’s Hall 6PM
12/19/2023 Salvation Army Bell Ringing, Sign-up sheet to be circulated
01/3/2024 Optimist Meeting
01/6/2024 Opening day Optimist Basketball

2023-2024 Officers and Board of Directors

Left to right: Brian Skidmore, Wayne Hill, Gary Rappoldt, Daryl Aurand (Secretary), Randy Smith (Treasurer), Dan Mattern (Vice-President), Brent Smith (President) Missing: Fred Darling