Optimist Meeting Notes 3-20-2013
GUESTS: Carolyn and Ruth came to talk to us about the Gettysburg Area High School STARS Program which stands for Success Through Academic Recognition. This is a quarterly program which awards students in the categories of Shining Star, Rising Star, and North Star. Our Optimist donation goes towards a quarterly breakfast ceremony where students and parents gather to celebrate achievements in academia, leadership and character. See our Facebook page for recent pictures of this event.
OPTIMIST MOMENT: Tom talked to the group about a conversation he shared with a local physician while at a STARS program several years ago. Tom related how proud he was to hear how this program was making a significant impact on local youth by improving their confidence and outlook on life.
OTHER NEWS: Mark received a pin from Optimist international for helping to bring 2 new members to our group.
Optimist international is currently promoting an introductory offer for new members 30 years of age or younger. If a new member under 30 joins the organization somewhere between February and September the dues for the first year will only be $30.
RECENT ACTIVITIES
OYSTER AND SHRIMP FEED: There was another strong showing of Optimist members at this event on Saturday March 9th. The 1863 Inn of Gettysburg was a hit as the new location for the feed. We look forward to working with the Inn again in the future. The addition of shrimp seemed to be a big draw. Some comments from our guests included: “This was the best oyster feed I’ve ever been to” and “That was the best stew I have ever had”. This year we served an additional 70 people compared to last year’s number, with nearly 250 tickets sold. It is estimated that more than $3500 was raised which will go towards local youth programs. Stacy asked that we avoid discussing making this a bi-annual event until she recovers from this year’s excitement!
BASKETBALL: Another Optimist Basketball season is in the books. Our last session on March 9th boasted a large turn out to end the weekly camp. We had a very enthusiastic group of children and parents who are already looking forward to next season!
COMMUNITY OUTREACH: Our website and Facebook pages continue to be a great way to promote the club to community members. More than 831 people have been reached by our Facebook page. Several potential new members have requested applications through our website.
UPCOMING EVENTS
GOLF TOURNAMENT: The key word is Sponsors for the May 23rd fundraiser. Optimist members are challenged to seek out sponsorships to make the most of this fundraising event. Please contact Daryl if you have any questions regarding the tournament or soliciting sponsors.
PIG ROAST: The Optimist of East York are sponsoring this all-you-can-eat evening for $40 on Tuesday March 26th. Please contact Joe if you would like to attend.
NEXT MEETING: Wednesday April 3rd at 6:30pm at the Adams County Arts Council Building
*Please consider if you would like to assist the Arts Council in their 2nd Annual Chili Cook-off on July 13th noon until 6pm.
