McCall Optimist Club

Meeting Feb 6

2012-02-04T10:22:00.001-08:00

Hello Fellow Optimist.

On Tuesday, February 6, 2012, Jan Partin from Boy Scouts of America, will talk to us about the Scouting Organization. Jan is the District Executive for the Seven Rivers District which covers McCall all the way west to Burns, Oregon. She will be discussing how the Boy Scouts of America is organized and the relationship between BSA and organizations like ours. She also like to discuss the "Friends of Scouting" program and the future establishment of the McCall's Boy Scout Troop 246.

We also have a couple of quick business items to cover and looking forward to a new guest.

I hope to you can make it.

Tom Crawford

Promise Yourself....
To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.

College proposed in McCall, Idaho

2012-02-01T17:54:00.000-08:00

Dr. L. Bryan Williams, PhD, the Organizing Director of the proposed McCall College, spoke to the McCall Optimist Club yesterday (01/31/2012) morning.

Approximately 14 Optimists listened intently to Dr. Williams' vision of a two-year college that holds the potential to educate local students, to attract students from outside of our immediate area, and to enhance our local economy in several ways. Dr. Williams and his group of organizers have identified a number of local individuals who possess PhD- and Masters-level credentials and who would be amply qualified to teach at the college. Classes would initially be conducted in the Park Place Business Center.

The McCall College is in its formative stages, and the future appears very bright for its development. Additional information is available about the institution and its direction at www.McCallCollege.org.

Photo and story from Jim Thackeray.

Optimist Meeting January 30

2012-01-27T14:08:00.001-08:00

On Tuesday, January 30, 2012, Dr. Brian Williams will talk to us about the McCall College located at the Park Place Building. Higher education in McCall could soon become reality. Dr. Williams will discuss the progress for this huge endeavor. This could be a big boost to the community. Let's welcome Dr. Williams and show him some support.

Hope to see you there.

Tom Crawford

Promise Yourself....
To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.

Governor-elect visits the McCall Optimist Club

2012-01-25T09:46:00.000-08:00

Larry Blackburn speaks to the
McCall Optimist Club

Larry Blackburn, Governor-elect of the Pacific Northwest District traveled to the McCall Optimist Club on Tuesday, January 24.

Jim Thackeray shared the following photos and information about Larry and Flo's visit.

Larry Blackburn, Florence Blackburn,
and Mike Kohout, President McCall
Optimist Club

We had a great meeting this morning as about 15 folks enjoyed an inspirational visit by Pacific Northwest District Governor-Elect Larry Blackburn and his wife, Florence.

Larry and Mike

The Blackburns have been active for years in Optimist activities with the Caldwell Club, and Larry will serve as our next District Governor. He shared his vision for the future of Optimism in the PNW District and throughout Idaho. Among other things, he is looking very forward to fun and productive meetings here in McCall and in Twin Falls.

He will rely on the support and participation of Optimists from McCall, and throughout the District, for the meetings to succeed.

Meeting on January 24 and Winter Carnival Planning

2012-01-23T18:24:00.001-08:00

Hello fellow McCall Optimist.

Larry Blackburn and his wife Florentz will be with us on Tuesday, January 24,2012 to talk about the PNW Optimist District as he is the Governor Elect of the PNW Optimist District. He has some very interesting news for our Club and our members.

We will also be discussing and planning Winter Carnival activities such as the Teen Dance, Parade Floats, and the Polar Plunge. We will need everyone's support for success.

See you in the morning.

Tom Crawford

Optimist Meeting on Jan 17

2012-01-13T17:49:00.000-08:00

Hello McCall Optimist,

This Tuesday, Jan 17, we have Jim Foudy as a guest speaker who makes a big positive difference for our youngest students. Jim is the Barbara Morgan Elementary School Principal and will share with us his background, upcoming activities, and programs with the elementary grades. Come join us for breakfast and meet Jim.

Also, there will be a Board meeting Tuesday evening at the McCall Golf Course, 6:00pm

Hope to see everyone there.

Tom Crawford

Optimist Secretaru

Jan 10 - Optimist Meeting announcement

2012-01-08T12:55:00.001-08:00

Hello Everyone.

Winter Carnival is coming fast with or without snow! This Tuesday we have several guest joining us to discuss activities for Winter Carnival. Kimmi Onthank will give us an update on the Optimist Football Program and be discussing ideas for the Optimist Floats with the football players and cheerleaders. Last year we had two floats in the Parade and may do something similar this year.

Also Sylvia Ryan and Jessicah Travis will join us. They would like to talk to us about the fund raisers they have planned during the Winter Carnival for the POTS and MYST programs. It should be a good meeting for discussions and planning.

Hope to see you there,

Tom Crawford

Optimist Announcement

2012-01-05T21:03:00.000-08:00

Greetings!

I am pleased to announce that you will soon start receiving McCall Optimist Club announcements, reminders and news from Tom Crawford, our new Club Secretary. Tom is working very closely with President Mike and the Board of Directors, and we've got another great year of Optimism underway.

Thanks,
Jim

Optimist Meeting - Tuesday, January 3rd

2011-12-29T19:44:00.000-08:00

Greetings!

McCall-Donnelly High School Wrestling Coach Scott Erekson will join our Optimist meeting next week to chat about this year's wrestling team and program. The team has had some great successes, and we're sure to enjoy Scott's visit and his comments. Assistant Wrestling Coach Anthony Waite and the four Seniors on the team will likely join our meeting, as well. These student athletes have all been outstanding wrestlers, and one has also been recognized for his accomplishments in football. I hope you'll attend and show your support and appreciation for these fine young folks - Tuesday, January 3rd, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. Please mark your calendar and tie a string around your finger for the meeting. It could be easy to forget as we enter the new year, Monday being a holiday, and with our routines a bit out of kilter.

We wish a very Happy New Year to you and yours!

Thanks,

Jim

Promise Yourself....
To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.

Optimist Meeting - Tuesday, Dec 20 + Announcement

2011-12-18T08:42:00.000-08:00

Greetings!

McCall-Donnelly High School Track Coach Bill Anderson will join our meeting this week to chat about the Winter Carnival Teen Dances. (Can you believe Winter Carnival is only six weeks away!!!). Last year we joined forces with the Track program to sponsor and chaperone the Teen Dances. A portion of the proceeds went to the Track program for pole vault equipment. Bill will reflect on last year's dances and what he envisions for this year's activities. I hope you'll attend - Tuesday, December 20th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House.

Notice: We will NOT meet on Tuesday, December 27th. Meetings will resume on Tuesday, January 3rd, 2012. In the meantime, we wish you a very merry and joyous Christmas, and a happy and safe New Year!!!

See you Tuesday morning!

Jim

Promise Yourself...

To make all your friends feel that there is something in them.

Optimist Meeting - Tuesday, December 13th

2011-12-11T13:18:00.001-08:00

Greetings!

Our own Michael Yeakle willprovide a very timely program this week - "Enjoying Christmas,Without The Stress". Michael spoke to us several weeks ago,and you know he's both interesting and knowledgeable. We'llundoubtedly enjoy Michael's presentation, and I'm confident we can allbenefit from his words and thoughts. Hope you'll plan to attend -Tuesday, December 13th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. Invite a friend,too.

See you Tuesday!

Jim

Promise Yourself...
To talk health,happiness, and prosperity to every person you meet.

Optimist Meeting - Tuesday, December 6th

2011-12-04T12:04:00.001-08:00

Greetings!

Wildlife Biologist Jim Holyan of the Nez Perce Tribe's Wolf Project will addressour meeting this week, and he's sure to be very interesting and a wealth ofinformation. Mr. Holyan obtained his Bachelor of Science degree inWildlife and Wildland Recreation Management from Washington State University in1986. He has worked for various agencies focussing on a varietyof species, including:

Northern Spotted Owls (U S Forest Service, Washington Dept. of Natural Resources, Humbolt State University)
Elk (Mount Ranier National Park)
Arctic Flora and Fauna (U S Fish & Wildlife Service, Arctic National Wildlife Refuge)
Wolves (U S Fish & Wildlife Service, Kenai National Wildlife Refuge)
Pine Martens (U S Forest Service, Olympia Forestry Sciences Laboratory)

Jim has been employed with the Nez Perce Tribesince 1997. He has observed wolves and documented packs' reproductivestatuses during his field seasons, while his non-field seasonsinvolved the more tedious processes of analyzing and making sense of the datahe's collected.

I hope you'll plan to attend this week'smeeting - Tuesday, December 6th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House.

See you Tuesday!

Jim

Promise Yourself...
To be so strong thatnothing can disturb your peace of mind.

Optimist Meeting - Tuesday, November 29th

2011-11-26T21:18:00.001-08:00

Greetings -

Long-time McCall resident and community leaderRalph McKenzie (whom many of us know) will address our meeting thisweek. Ralph has numerous slides ofvarious places in Micronesia, with the feature being photos taken while scubadiving in Truk Lagoon, the site of an incredible number of Japanese ships sunkduring World War II. This promises to be a fascinating review of thecritical role Truk Lagoon played in US history accompanied byRalph's outstanding photography. Please plan to attend -Tuesday, November 29th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House.

See you Tuesday morning!

Jim

Promise Yourself....

To be too large forworry, too nobe for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit thepresence of trouble.

Optimist Meeting - Tuesday, November 22nd

2011-11-20T17:59:00.001-08:00

Greetings!

Steve Case, the Area Manager for IdahoPower, will be our guest at this week'smeeting. Steve will provide an update/overview of thecompany's activities and direction. His visit will also provide anice opportunity for us to express our appreciation for the very generousdonations and support our club has received in recent years from theHeartland Employee Community Fund, Idaho Power, and IDACORP, Inc.

I hope you'll attend - Tuesday, November 22nd,7:00 am at the Pancake House.

See you Tuesday!

Jim

Promise Yourself....

To give so much timeto the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others.

Optimist Meeting - Tuesday, November 15th

2011-11-13T19:13:00.001-08:00

Greetings!

A representative of the Idaho NationalLaboratory (INL), the nuclear facility near Idaho Falls, will speak to ourmeeting this week. Amy is highly knowledge in her subject areas, and herpresentation promises to be interesting and unique. I don't believe we'veever had a speaker from the INL or on related topics. She will be makinga considerable trek across the state to meet with us. Hope you'll attend, and bring a friend if you can - Tuesday,November 15th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House.

Many thanks to those who put up and took downthe flags for Veterans Day and the weekend! Town looked outstanding!!

See you Tuesday!

Thanks,

Jim

Promise Yourself....

To wear a cheerfulcountenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.

Optimist Meeting - Tuesday, November 8th + Announcements

2011-11-06T11:49:00.001-08:00

Greetings!

Mr. Greg Stahl, Assistant PolicyDirector of Rivers United,will join our meeting this week. Greg works on the organization's salmonprogram, as well as focussing on other conservation issues. He arrived in November, 2008, following 10 yearsspent writing about Idaho's abundant rivers, public lands, and colorfulpersonalities as a reporter and assistant editor with the Idaho MountainExpress newspaper in Ketchum. He also worked previously as senior editorat Sun Valley Magazine. A 2005-2006 recipient of a Ted Scripps Fellowshipin Environmental Journalism at University of Colorado at Boulder, Greg isversed in water law, public land law and natural resources law. Beyondhis abundant hobbies, which range from playing the guitar to whitewaterkayaking, he's an avid student of life. Greg is excited to be working inthe world of river advocacy.

Greg's program is sureto be interesting, and I hope you'll plan to attend - Tuesday, November 8th, 7:00am at the Pancake House.

Thank You Veterans!

Next Friday, November11th, is Veterans Day. We give a heartfelt "thankyou" to all those Veterans in our club and throughout our communityfor their service and sacrifice.

Veterans Day Flag Service

We'll be putting theflags up and taking them down in observance of Veterans Day, and we'llneed some volunteers. Can you help? (I don't yet know the schedule,but we'll get that out soon)

See you Tuesday morning!

Thanks,

Jim

Optimist Meeting - Tuesday, November 1st

2011-10-30T09:12:00.001-07:00

Greetings!

We'll have two visitors to this week'smeeting (and maybe more)!

Payette National Forest Archaeologist LarryKingsbury will join our meeting with newsof archaeological activities on the Forest. Larry has visitedus several times in the past, and his presentations are always educational anddownright fascinating. I know you'll enjoy Larry's presentation. Ibelieve he intends to retire quite soon, and this may be one of thelast opportunities that he'll be available to share his passionand knowledge with us.

Our McCall-Donnelly High School Girls'Soccer team triumphed in a close game against Weiser last Saturday totake the State title. We've invited Assistant Coach Forrest Stanley tojoin our meeting this week to share a few comments about the victory, and so wecan concongratulate and recognize the team for their outstanding success. Coach Stanley may also bring one (or several) players.

Hope you'll attend this week's meeting -Tuesday, November 1st, 7:00 am at the Pancake House.

See you then!

Jim

Optimist Meeting - Tuesday, October 18th + Important Announcements

2011-10-16T21:33:00.001-07:00

Greetings!

Melissa Newell and Fred Coriell, founders of the McCall Kayak Club, will join usthis week to talk about the organization, what they do in teaching kids tokayak, and other aspects of the club. Ms. Newell and Mr. Coriell bothhave interesting backgrounds, and their presentation promises to beenlightening. Please plan to attend - Tuesday, October 18th, 7:00 am atthe Pancake House.

Installation Banquet - Wednesday, October 26th, at the McCall Golf CourseClubhouse. Social Hour - 5:00 pm, Dinner 6:30 pm. Details will beforthcoming within the next day or two; please mark your calendar and plan toattend!

"Optimist of the Year" - We will have the honor and privilege of recognizing oneof our own club members who has gone "above and beyond" in theirservice to our organization and community during the past year, aperson who truly embraces the ideals of the Optimist Creed. This week'smeeting will include a vote (by private ballot) for Optimist of the Year. Those who are not able to attend this week's meeting mayvote by e-mail to me at riovista284@hotmail.com. All votes will be confidential; the deadline to vote is Thursday,October 20th at 8:00 pm. Our Optimist of the Year will be announced atthe Installation Banquet.

See you Tuesday morning!

Jim

Promise Yourself...
To look at the sunnyside of everything and make your optimism come true.

Optimist Meeting - Tuesday, October 11th. + Board Meeting

2011-10-09T17:52:00.001-07:00

Greetings!

President-Elect Mike Kohout will chat with usthis week about "The History of Optimism". In addition, we'llinclude a brief Board meeting to address one or two matters. Hope you'll plan to attend - Tuesday, October 11th at the Pancake House.

See you Tuesday!

Jim

Optimist Meeting - Tuesday, October 4th

2011-10-02T09:16:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

McCall-Donnelly High School Girls' SoccerCoach Greg Pittenger will join us this week to chat about this year's team,direction of the program, expectations, etc. The girls are are having agreat season, and I hope you'll be on hand to hear what Greg has to share with us- Tuesday, 10/04/2011, 7:00 am at the Pancake House.

See you Tuesday!

Jim

Optimist Meeting - Tuesday, September 27th + Reminder

2011-09-24T08:47:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

Tammy Kolsky of the Idaho Departmentof Parks & Recreation will join our meetingthis week with information about their Statewide ReservationProgram. I think you'll be interested and surprised when youhear the extent of what Tammy and her crew are doing from right here inMcCall. And, you'll learn things to help with your own futureventures and vacations around Idaho and beyond. Hope you'llplan to attend - Tuesday, September 27th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. We'll be in Santa's Sweet Shoppe just to the left as you enter the restaurant.

BBQ/Potluck & Work Party

Don't forget about our shindig on Wednesday atJohn and Diane Mansisidor's home west of Donnelly. We'll get some workaccomplished in short order, then we'll dig into the BBQ and fun stuff. Friends and family members are invited, of course, and we'll have something funfor the kids to do. PleaseRSVP by Tuesday to John so he can plan accordingly.

Thanks!

Jim

Optimist BBQ & Work Party - Next Wednesday!

2011-09-21T20:53:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

Time for an Optimist BBQ/Potluck &Work Party! We've got it scheduled for next Wednesday,September 28th. We'll begin at 4:00 for those who can make it, andanytime later for those who can't arrive that early. You'reinvited, along with your family, friends and any guests you might wish toinvite.

Host John Mansisidor tells us there's not alot of work to be done, and we'll make a quick attack on our gametables to glue the legs and joints, and screw everything together solid. And there'll be food! Lots of good food! The Club will provideburgers and buns. Please plan to bring:

a dish to share
beverage(s) of your choice
table ware
lawn chairs (John has some chairs already, so don't worry if you don't have chairs handy to bring)

Many thanks to John and Diane Mansisidorfor hosting this event! A map to their home west of Donnelly isattached. From Highway 55, turn west on West Roseberry Road. Proceed exactly 1/2 mile. Turn right (north) on Kassandra. Proceednorth on Kassandra. It curves to the left (west) and becomesSuzanna. The Mansisidor resisidence is on the left at the end of theroad.

Please RSVP by Tuesday, September 27th, to John at so he can prepare for the food preparation.

Hope you'll plan to attend!

Thanks!

Jim

Optimist Meeting - Tuesday, September 20th

2011-09-18T09:27:00.001-07:00

Greetings!

McCall-Donnelly High School Football CoachLarry Henggeler will join us this week to chat about this year's football team,how the program is looking, etc. Please plan to attend - Tuesday,September 20th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. As usual, we'll be inSanta's Sweet Shoppe, just to the left as you enter the restaurant.

See you Tuesday!

Jim

Promise Yourself....
To talk health, happiness,and prosperity to every person you meet.

Optimist Meeting - Tuesday, September 13th + Announcements

2011-09-10T14:57:00.001-07:00

Greetings!

Erik Boomer will join our nextmeeting with an account and photos of his latestadventure. Erik is an accomplished outdoorsman, explorer,adventurer and photographer (not to mention that he's Hank'sson!). You might recall Erik's presentation about six months ago inwhich he talked about an inner-city project that he had justfinished. Erik recently completed the first human-poweredcircumnavigation of Ellesmere Island. The trek involved 1,485miles by foot, skis, and kayak, with 104 days on theice. You really don't want to miss this presentationas Erik recounts his experiences and challenges in one of themost remote and forbidding locations on our planet. Hope you'llplan to attend - Tuesday, September 13th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. We'll be in Santa's Sweet Shoppe, just to the left as you enter the restaurant.

Flag Service - This Sunday - 9/11

Everything's a "go" for flagstomorrow as we recognize the 10th anniversary of 9/11.

The Up Crew will meet at the Pancake House at7:00 am:

Randy Basabe
John Mansisidor
Kermit Peterson
Jim Thackeray

The Down Crew will meet at the storage unit(unit #54 in Airport Storage behind the Dept of Labor Office) at 6:00 pm:

Hank Boomer
Mike Kohout
Eric Watson

We could use at least one more person on theDown Crew.

Club BBQ/Work Party - Wednesday, September 28th

Pleasemark your calendar for a BBQ and work party in the eveningof Wednesday, September 28th. Kermit Peterson and John Mansisidor areorganizing the festivities, which will be held at John's home west ofDonnelly. In addition to a great BBQ meal, excellent conversation, andlots of laughs, we'll refurbish the game tables that we use annually for theSenior Party. Friends and family members also invited and encouraged tojoin in our fun.

Seeyou Tuesday morning!

Thanks,

Jim

(208)315-1276

Promise Yourself....

To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.

Flag service for 9/11

2011-09-06T12:51:00.001-07:00

Greetings -

Once in great while the opportunity arises forus to post the American flags in addition to our"contracted" holidays. This Sunday will be the 10th anniversaryof the September 11th attacks on our nation. Those who attended thismorning's meeting felt it would be very appropriate to fly the flags on Sundayin memory of those we lost in the attacks, for all that ournation endured, and in patriotism for our strength as we standunited.

Will you help to put up or take downflags this Sunday, September 11th?

The Up Crew will meet at 7:00 am at thePancake House. The Down Crew will meet at 6:00 pm at the storage unit.

Please let me know if you can commit to one orthe other.

Thanks,

Jim

Optimist Meeting - Tuesday, September 6th

2011-09-02T11:59:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

Don't Forget! We'll resume our weeklyOptimist meetings next Tuesday morning. Because of the Monday holiday,many of us will be on a little different schedule and out of our"routine". So, mark it down, tie a string around your finger,whatever it takes to remember!

John Barth, the McCall Business Manager of theIdaho Junior Steelheads, will talk with us about the hockey program. John is an energetic and dynamic speaker, and I know you'll enjoy hispresentation. And I think you'll also be impressed with all that's goingon in our world of hockey. This would be a great meeting to bring aguest.

Hope you'll plan to attend - Tuesday,September 6th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. We'll be in Santa's SweetShoppe, just to the left as you enter the restaurant.

Have a great weekend!!!

Jim

Labor Day Flag Service

2011-08-28T23:13:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

Randy Basabe has provided the following...

Here is our Labor Day Flag holiday schedule..

Up crew meets Friday, September 2nd at the Pancake House at7AM..

So far up crew helpers are John Mansisidor and Randy Basabe

The Down crew meets Monday, September 5th at the Optimiststorage shed at 7PM. Eric Watson has committed to take flags down.

We need and appreciate those that can help with our flagprogram.....

Looks like we'll need a few more volunteers. It wouldbe fantastic (and the project will go faster!) if we can get 6 folks toput up and 6 to take down. Please let Randy know if you can help oneither the "up" or "down" crew. I'll be out town muchof the week and may not have e-mail access, so please confirm with Randydirecty at 634-2464 or 634-8166, or by e-mail. Pleaselend a hand if you can.

Thanks!

Jim

Mark your calendar for upcoming Optimist activities!!!

2011-08-20T12:07:00.001-07:00

Greetings! I hope your summer has been excellent. It's amazing how fast this summer has gone!

Please mark your calendar for the following dates:

Labor Day Weekend - We'll be flying flags, and we'll need volunteers to put them up and take them down. I don't yet know the put-up and take-down schedules, but we'll let you know soon. Please help out if you can.
Tuesday, September 6th - We'll resume our weekly membership meetings at the Pancake House, 7:00 am in Santa's Sweet Shoppe. John Barth, McCall Business Manager of the Idaho Junior Steelheads, will chat with us about the hockey program. I know you'll enjoy his presentation.
Wednesday, September 28 - Club BBQ and work party, probably beginning around 5:00 (or whenever you and your guests can get there!). In addition to enjoying a BBQ together, we'll work on rebuilding our game tables. We'll let you know as the plans are "firmed up".

Enjoy your weekend!
Thanks, Jim

Jazz on the Green - Saturday, August 13th

2011-07-25T21:34:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

I hope you're enjoying awonderful summer!

Jazz on the Green will be here before we know it, and it promises to be anoutstanding experience! Four top-notch jazz bands/artists willentertain at the McCall Golf Club from 4:00 pm until dark on Saturday, August13th, featuring:

Paul Tillotson and the Love Trio
Van Paepeghem Quartet
Steve Eaton
Brianne Gray

Five hours of exceptional jazz in one ofthe most beautiful mountain settings on Earth! Proceeds from theconcert will be donated to the Snowdon Wildlife Sanctuary and the McCallOptimist Club, two very worthy causes that everyonecan support!

We're encouraging all Optimists tocommit to selling at least a few tickets. Only $25.00 per ticket for aspot on the lawn. Tickets can be purchased from Optimist Club members, atthe McCall Golf Club Clubhouse, or by calling the Pro Shop at (208)634-7200. Folks who call to purchase tickets can use theircredit cards, which will be convenient for our out-of-town guests. Those who make their purchases with checks should make them out to"McCall Golf Club". Limited seating will be available onthe Clubhouse deck at $35.00 per person and can be arranged bycalling the Pro Shop at (208) 634-7200.

Please check out the attached Jazz on the Green poster; hopefullyyou've seen a few of these in your travels around town. Feel free toprint out posters to hang in your office or shop, give to friends, post aroundtown, etc.

Ticket Sales

Will you take some tickets to sell? Please call me at (208) 315-1276 to arrange tickets.
Can you help at a table at Paul's for a two- or three-hour shift during the next three weekends? Working in pairs, we'll set up a card table for ticket sales near the Paul's courtesy counter between Noon and 6:00 pm on the next few Saturdays and Sundays. Paul's is a high-traffic location, and we're optimistic for strong sales there. Please call me at (208) 315-1276 to schedule a shift.

Traffic Control

We'll need a small crew of volunteers to helpin Traffic Control at the event on August 13th. Please let me know if youcan lend a hand with Traffic Control.

Jazz on the Green will undoubtedly be a wonderful and memorableexperience for all who attend. In addition, the proceeds will beinstrumental in helping the Snowdon Wildlife Sanctuary and ourclub to more effectively carry out the objectives of bothorganizations. I hope you'll commit some of your time and effort tothis very worthy and fun project.

Please let me know if youhave questions.

Thanks,

Jim

Cell phone: (208)315-1276

Optimist Announcements

2011-06-23T10:36:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

Happy Father's Day to all the fathers among us, and to all the fathers who have touched our lives. Thank you for making a difference!

Many thanks to those who put up and took down flags last Tuesday for Flag Day! We'll soon be looking for more flag volunteers for the Fourth of July. Please let Randy Basabe know if you can help on the "up" crew or the "down" crew.

Reminder - no weekly Optimist meetings through the summer months. However, please keep in mind that we'll have several important activities during the summer that will require a strong club involvement and support. We'll keep you posted.

Last Tuesday was our final weekly meeting before our summer break, and we made it a combined Board Meeting and fellowship meeting. Please take a few minutes to review the following minutes of the meeting, and check with any Board member should you have questions:

Optimist Club of McCall

Minutes of the Board Meeting

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

The Board of Directors met with general membership at a breakfast meeting at The Pancake House in McCall at 7:00 a.m.

No votes were taken, but many business items were discussed.

1. Treasurer’s Report. Michael Gurney and Mike Kohout will check with Treasurer Dave Kistner and e-mail a report to the President and Secretary.

2. Announcements – President Hank Boomer. President Hank discussed numerous funding “wants” for the club, including new jerseys for Optimist Football, additional scholarship money, the pole vault pit, and the POTS Program, none of which we can contribute to without a new source of funding.

Mike Kohout recently sent out the dues billings.

Lengthy discussion on “Jazz on the Green”, set for Saturday, August 13th. President Hank emphasized the need to eliminate confusion and coordinate our efforts. All communications with Golf Pro Allan Morrison need to go through either Hank or Jim Thackeray, who will send notices to all so that we all stay on the same page. Rich Wildman strongly agreed, and pointed out that the same rule needs to be followed with non-member volunteers, such as parents of Optimist Footballers.

It was emphasized that there are only 2,000 tickets being offered for sale, and, as far as we know, the tickets are not yet printed. This could impact internet sales of tickets, as we would have to know how many tickets others have sold if we don’t have tickets in our hands or to deliver to buyers. It is unknown how much deck seating is available, and we don’t want to “oversell”. Guy questioned whether the Golf Course Clubhouse needs to rent additional chairs. Do we need hand-stamps for spectators to ensure that we don’t have “free-riders” walking in? Numerous promotional ideas were discussed, including a ticket sale “thermometer” to be displayed at the Clubhouse and in each week’s newspaper. Newspaper advertising, getting on the Chamber calendar, radio (including BSU Radio), Channel 7 TV, the Roseberry Music Festival (which is scheduled for July 16^th).

After the meeting, Tom offered to help with promotions. His good friend, formerly of Common Ground, now lives in Boise, and is very accustomed to promoting musical events. Also, Joey Petri volunteered to coordinate efforts/liaison with Optimist Football players, coaches, and parents.

President Hank appointed John Mansisidor and Kermit Peterson to organize a potluck work party for mid-July; the blackjack tables are in need of repair, and a mid-July gathering would help us to also focus on ticket sales for Jazz on the Green.
|
Randy is busy with flag activities, and is organizing for the 4^th of July already.

President Hank announced that the next general membership meeting will be the day after Labor Day, September 6.

The membership “passed the hat” for our waitress, Norma Montes, and gave Norma and Bonnie Bertram a well-deserved round of applause.

3. Meeting Adjourned – Hank Boomer. There being no further business, members recited the Optimist Creed, Noah Jeppe rang the bell, and the meeting was adjourned.

Have a great summer!

Thanks,

Jim

Promise Yourself....

To talk health, happiness, and prosperity to every person you meet.

Jazz on the Green - August 13th! Spread the word & start makin' plans...

2011-06-12T16:42:00.000-07:00

Good Afternoon!

Allan Morrison has delivered the first of the "Jazz on the Green" posters - see attached. Thank you, Allan! We want to spread the word far and wide so folks can begin making their plans, arrange lodging reservations, etc. And, even us "local folk" need to lock in the date. This is going to be outstanding! Take a look at the variety and quality of artists that Allan has lined up. We can count on top-notch jazz and performance. And, can you find two better organizations for a benefit event than the Snowdon Wildlife Sanctuary and the McCall Optimist Club? I think not!

Please print out a supply of posters and start distributing them a.s.a.p. The more visibility and chatter we can get regarding the event, the better. We're limited to 2,000 tickets, and we want to sell each and every one.

Allan, thanks for all you're doing!!!!

Thanks,

Jim

Optimist Meeting - Tuesday - June 14th + announcements

2011-06-12T14:44:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

This Tuesday will be our last meeting before we break for the summer (sorry, I provided incorrect information last week!). We'll combine a fellowship meeting and a Board Meeting. Hope you'll plan to attend and participate.

Flag Service

We can use some volunteers to put up and take down flags this Tuesday for Flag Day. We'll get started on the "up" crew immediately following our meeting. We'll also be looking for flag volunteers for Independence Day/4th of July. If you can help with either an "up" shift or a "down" shift (or both!), please contact Randy Basabe as soon as possible. Our flag program is an important fund-raiser to support the club's activities, and it certainly dresses up our community and promotes patriotism. Please lend a hand if you can.

Jazz On The Green

Mark your calendar for Saturday, August 13th for "Jazz On The Green". This event promises to provide a phenomenal jazz experience at the beautiful McCall Golf Course, AND to be a tremendous fund-raiser for us. Many folks who receive my messages and updates reside outside the McCall area. Jazz On The Green will be well worth the trip to McCall for the entertainment and experience. Saturday - August 13th - McCall Golf Course!

Thanks,

Jim

Promise Yourself....
To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.

Optimist Meeting - Tuesday, June 7th + Announcements

2011-06-05T20:15:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

What a gorgeous weekend we've had!  Perhaps summer has finally found the mountains.

We'll be honored to have John Fronk and his parents join us at this week's meeting. John was the recipient of our 2011 McCall Optimist/Dehlinger Memorial Scholarship. Scholarship Committee Chairman Mike Kohout will introduce John and his parents, and he'll give a summary of John's background, accomplishments, etc. This will be our last weekly meeting before we break for the summer. Please make every effort join us for this meeting, congratulate John, and get a few updates on recent events and those to come - Tuesday, June 7th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. We'll be in Santa's Sweet Shoppe, just to the left as you enter the restaurant.

I've heard from very reliable sources that the Optimist Senior Party was a resounding success once again. LOTS of happy graduates and good things went on. We'll get an update from Paul Gullickson and crew on their perspectives of the event. An enormous THANK YOU goes out to all who planned, organized, procured donations, contributed, set up, chaperoned, cleaned up, and made the party happen so successfully!!!!

Flag Service - Many thanks also to the folks who put up and took down flags last Monday for Memorial Day. Town looked outstanding! We've heard a new record may have been set in putting flags up (or was that taking down?) - under an hour!   Hmmmm....   records were made to be broken! Who's up to the challenge? Our next flag day is Flag Day - Tuesday, June 14th. We'll be looking for "up" crews and "down" crews. Please lend a hand if you can. (The competitors in our group can work on breaking that record.....)

We had a great presentation last week by Golf Pro and McCall Golf Course Manager Allan Morrison to discuss the plans and vision for "Jazz On The Green". You'll be hearing a lot more about this event in coming weeks. Please mark your calendar for Saturday, August 13th. It promises to be loads of fun and has the potential as a major fund-raiser for our club. You should start seeing "official" information/promotion very soon, but it wouldn't hurt to mention it to your friends, acquaintances, relatives, strangers you bump into at the store, etc. Let your out-of-town contacts know, as well. This will be an event well worth travelling to our beautiful mountains.  An opportunity to enjoy phenomenal jazz performed by several talented artists in one of the most gorgeous mountain settings on the planet, and at a very affordable price.   We're inviting Optimists (and their families and guests) from far and wide to join us for the event. Don't miss this one - Saturday, August 13th!

See you Tuesday morning!

Jim

Promise Yourself....
To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.

Optimist Meeting - Tuesday, May 31st

2011-05-29T19:30:00.001-07:00

Greetings!

Golf Pro and Manager Allan Morrison of the McCall Golf Course will join our meeting this Tuesday to chat about the "Jazz On The Green" benefit concert scheduled for this August. Our club will assist with the concert, and we'll be a beneficiary along with the Snowdon Wildlife Sanctuary. We anticipate this to be a grand event, and it has the potential to be a substantial fundraiser for our organization. I hope you'll plan to attend and hear Allan's thoughts and ideas - Tuesday, May 31st, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. We'll be in Santa's Sweet Shoppe, just to the left as you enter the restaurant.

Happy Memorial Day everyone! Many thanks to the Veterans among us, and in memory of those who have sacrificed so very much for the freedoms we enjoy!

See you Tuesday!

Jim

Promise Yourself....
To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others.

Memorial Day - We appreciate Flag Up and Down help!

2011-05-22T16:10:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day Flag Program..Just want to let everyone know that Memorial Day Holiday is one of our key flag holidays..We will need up crews and down crews..Memorial Day is Monday, May 30th..Normally, we meet at the Pancake House for the up crew and at the airport storage shed..Optimist shed is number 54...We can discuss the exact times at our Tuesday meeting and let everyone know..

Just a heads up...Please be willing to help..It is a honor to put up United States flags...and dress up our town and mostly to honor our veterans and troops..

Thanks,

Randy Basabe

Optimist Meeting - Tuesday, May 24th + Important Announcements!

2011-05-22T13:00:00.001-07:00

Greetings!

McCall-Donnelly Boys Baseball Coach Mike Maini will be with us this week to chat about this year's baseball program, the direction of the program, etc. Mike has talked to us before while coaching soccer, and you'll remember his passion for sport and dedication. You won't want to miss Mike's presentation - Tuesday, May 24th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. We'll be in Santa's Sweet Shoppe just to the left as you enter the restaurant.

Congratulations to our new officers who were elected at last week's meeting:

Mike Kohout - President
John Mansisidor - Vice President
Richard Wildman - Vice President
Randy Basabe - Director
Guy Jeppe - Director
Mike Vineyard - Director

These gents will lead and guide our club through the coming Optimist year beginning October 1st, along with help and support of the appointed positions:

Treasurer - Dave Kistner
Assistant Treasurer - Michael Gurney
Secretary - Tom Crawford

A very hearty "congrats" and "thanks" to these nine officers! Next year looks very promising for the club to continue in providing outstanding service to the youth of our area. And, we'll have great opportunities to take our organization to the next level. Let's all pull together and be ready to support our new leaders when the opportunities arise.

Senior Party - We're still recruiting for Optimists and friends of Optimism to chaperone and lend a hand at the Senior Party on Saturday, June 4th. Please let us know if you can help. You're bound to have a ball with this activity!

Memorial Day Flag Service - Monday, May 30th is Memorial Day, and we'll be posting flags and taking them down. I believe Randy Basabe has sent out a separate message about this, but I want to reiterate that we can use extra hands for this project. We need a minimum of four folks to put up and four to take down. (It would be fantastic if we could get six folks for the up crew and six for the down crew!) It only takes about an hour and a half, it contributes greatly as our club's primarly fund-raiser, it "dresses up" our community beautifully, and it's a wonderful tribute to our servicemen and women and patriotism. Please let Randy Basabe or John Mansisidor know that you will help with flag service.

See you Tuesday morning!

Jim

Promise Yourself....
To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.

Meeting Reminder and Officer Elections

2011-05-16T15:23:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

Richard Taplin, Park Manager of Ponderosa State Park, will join us this Tuesday to chat about developments at the Park. Ponderosa State Park is recognized as a gem right here in our midst (and statewide!), contributing greatly to our local economy and providing wonderful recreational opportunities for residents, as well. Richard will visit about Park updates, the direction of the Park, and will invite questions. I hope you'll plan to attend and learn more about the latest news at the Ponderosa State Park.

As mentioned in a prior message, we will conduct our annual election of officers this Tuesday. The Nominating Committee has nominated the following members for the following positions:

President (vote for one)

Mike Kohout

Vice President (vote for two)

John Mansisidor
Richard Wildman

Director (vote for three)

Guy Jeppe
Randy Basabe
Mike Vineyard

Please plan to attend and cast your vote. Your vote is important as we move toward a new and robust Optimist year!

Senior Party Reminder!!! Graduation and our Senior Party are rapidly approaching - Saturday, June 4th. We still need a number of volunteers to to help with this activity. The alcohol-and-drug-free Senior Party has become a very popular tradition, and it's certainly a worthwhile endeavor as we congratulate our graduates. Please commit to several hours of volunteering; you'll have a great time in the process!

See you Tuesday morning!

Jim

Promise Yourself....

To be just enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.

Optimist Meeting - Tuesday, May 10th

2011-05-08T15:16:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

Head Track Coach Bill Anderson will join our meeting on Tuesday to visit about this year's McCall-Donnelly High School Track Program, the team and performances, the future of the program, the status of the pole vault pit acquisition, and related topics. Assistant Coaches Bianca Brandt, Kat Mount, Larry Jindrich and/or Kurt Wolf may also be able to join us. This is an exciting time for the team as they head into District competition in New Plymouth on Friday, and on to the State meet on the following Friday.

Best wishes for a very Happy Mothers' Day to all the moms among us and in our lives!!!!

Reminder... elections will be held at our weekly meeting on May 17th.

I hope you'll plan to attend this week's meeting - Tuesday, May 10th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. We'll be in Santa's Sweet Shoppe, just to the left as you enter the restaurant.

See you Tuesday!

Jim

Promise Yourself....

To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best.

Meeting reminder - Tuesday, April 19

2011-04-18T08:28:00.000-07:00

Reminding you of our Optimist Meeting this Tuesday, April 19th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. We'll be in Santa's Sweet Shoppe, just to the left as you enter the restaurant. The program has not yet been confirmed for this week. We MAY end up with a fellowship meeting and get to know each other a little better. Hope you'll plan to attend!

See you there!

Jim

Promise yourself....
to talk health, happiness, and prosperity to every person you meet.

Next meeting - April 12

2011-04-10T08:40:00.001-07:00

Greetings!

Our own Tom Crawford will chat with us this week on TWO subjects. As you know, Tom is the Scout Master for our Cub Scout Pack #246, and he will share information with us related to the Cub Scouting program. You're probably also aware that Tom works for the U S Forest Service. The focus of his Tuesday morning presentation will center on the Youth Conservation Corp, and it promises to be very interesting.

Hope you'll join us - Tuesday, April 12th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. As usual, we'll meet in Santa's Sweet Shoppe, just to the left as you enter the restaurant.

See you then!!

Jim

Idaho Community Foundation at next meeting on April 5

2011-04-03T08:41:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

We are fortunate to have Mr. Robert Hoover, President and CEO of the Idaho Community Foundation, for this week's program. In scheduling the engagement, Mr. Hoover's office noted "a little bit of information about what we do: The ICF is a nonprofit organization. The ICF's mission is 'To Enrich the Quality of Life Throughout Idaho.' The Foundation does not define what that means; rather, ICF invites communities statewide to describe - through the applications they submit - what is needed to make life better for the people in their town. To achieve its mission, ICF gathers funds from donors, helping them achieve their philanthropic objectives; grows the funds over time through a sound investment process; and grants the funds for a broad variety of philanthropic projects statewide."

Mr. Hoover is a distinguished guest and speaker, having served as President of both the University of Idaho and the College of Idaho. His program promises to be interesting and timely. He will be traveling to McCall to meet with us; let's have a great turn out and a warm McCall welcome for Mr. Hoover.

Hope to see you Tuesday, April 5th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. We'll be in Santa's Sweet Shoppe just to the left as you enter the restaurant.

Thanks,

Jim

~ Promise yourself to be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind ~

Next Meeting on March 29

2011-03-27T08:45:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

Our own Dave Kistner will speak to us this week with information and updates on the 2010 Tax Code, items of interest, and tax-related matters. Dave has a long history as an accountant, and we're sure to benefit from his comments and insights. Hope you'll join us - Tuesday, March 29th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. Look for us in Santa's Sweet Shoppe, just to the left as you enter the restaurant.

See you Tuesday!

Jim

Thirty Years of Optimism - Linda's Review

2011-03-26T08:46:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

Have you seen the "Pacific Northwest District Optimist Clubs" blog? Now is the time to take a peek! Linda Jackson, Immediate Past Governor of the PNW District, posted a really impressive article focussing on our recent Thirty Year Celebration, including outstanding photos. Just click on this link ( http://www.pnwdistrictoptimist.com/ ) to go to the blog. When you're done reading the article, be sure to click on the link below the article to view Linda's collection of photos from the evening. (You can also try clicking on this link - Please click here to see more pictures from the evening. ) You're sure to see lots of familiar, smiling faces. Really fun!

Thank you to all who participated and made the evening such a fine success! And a special "thank you" to Linda for the wonderful article and photos!

Jim

Important Optimist Reminders & Updates...

2011-03-12T08:25:00.000-08:00

Greetings!

A couple of Optimist notices to start the day...

30-Year Anniversary Celebration - Saturday, March 19th

Our big celebration is rapidly approaching! Have you submitted your RSVP? The deadline to respond has been extended until Noon tomorrow (Sunday, March 13th). We need a solid count on who all is coming and the dinner orders so the Golf Course folks can prepare for us. We've received responses from past club members, Optimist dignitaries, and members of other clubs. You won't want to miss this event! Please RSVP to me as soon as possible. Questions? Call me on my cell at (208) 315-1276.

Meeting - Tuesday, March 15th

Dan Smith, Idaho Power Customer Representative & Energy Efficiency, will join our meeting with information and updates on the company's programs. Mr. Smith's presentation promises to be both interesting and useful. I hope you'll plan to attend - Tuesday, March 15th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. We'll be in Santa's Sweet Shoppe just to the left as you enter the restaurant.

Have a great weekend!

Jim

Meeting on March 8

2011-03-06T11:59:00.001-08:00

Greetings!

McCall-Donnelly School District Superintendent Glen Szymoniak will join our meeting this week to chat about legislation which could have a huge impact on the future of our district and several other districts in Idaho. I hope you'll plan to attend - Tuesday, March 8th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House.

See you Tuesday!

Jim

Announcements

2011-02-27T15:18:00.000-08:00

Greetings!

McCall Optimist Youth Football Director Kimmi Onthank will join us Tuesday morning to chat about the football program, the direction of the program, equipment needs, etc. Kimmi has been doing a bang-up job in directing the football program, and I think you'll find the discussion to be interesting. Hope you'll plan to attend - Tuesday, March 1st, 7:00 am at the Pancake House.

Flag Program

Many thanks to those who put the flags up and took them down last Monday in observance of Presidents' Day!!! McCall looked festive and proud!

30th Anniversary Celebration

Mark your calendar for Saturday, March 19th for our big 30th Anniversary Celebration. The Optimist Club of McCall was chartered in March, 1981, and we've had lots of outstanding accomplishments since then. This will be a fun opportunity to celebrate with other members, past members (some of whom we haven't seen for a looooong time), Optimist dignitaries, members from other clubs (including our "parent" club, the Boise Noon Optimists), family members, guests, and various friends of Optimism. Festivities will be held at the McCall Golf Course Clubhouse, with Social Hour beginning at 5:00 pm and Dinner at 6:30. Chef Sean Thueson is renowned for his culinary talents and is sure to please all. More information/details will be forthcoming in the very near future.

Thanks,

Jim

Meeting on Tuesday, Feb 22

2011-02-21T20:02:00.000-08:00

Greetings, and Happy Presidents' Day!

We'll have a combined fellowship meeting and Board Meeting tomorrow morning. Undoubtedly we'll have some fun and laughs, and we're planning to get several important things accomplished in our Board Meeting. We're hoping for a good turnout; membership input during the Board Meeting will be very helpful.

Hope to see you tomorrow - Tuesday, February 22nd, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. We'll be in Santa's Sweet Shoppe just to the left as you enter the restaurant.

See you then,

Jim

President's Day Flag Service...

2011-02-13T09:33:00.000-08:00

Hello, everyone..

President's Day holiday is coming up on Monday, February 21..This is one of our scheduled Flag Holidays...We will need 4 helpers of an up crew and 4 helpers for a down crew on that holiday..Please consider helping if you can...It is nice to have volunteers that could rotate some of these holidays...and Optimistic consideration to share the opportunity to serve our community !! We can discuss this briefly on Tuesday morning at our Pancake House meeting. Thanks for helping ...It is important...

Have a great day !!!

Randy Basabe

Find out about POTS on Tuesday, Feb 15

2011-02-13T09:19:00.001-08:00

Greetings -

Sylvia Ryan of Valley County will be with us Tuesday morning to chat about the POTS Program (Positive Outdoor Teen Service), and she may touch on another topic or two, as well. Hope you'll join us - Tuesday, February 15th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. Look for us in Santa's Sweet Shoppe, just to the left as you enter the restaurant.

See you Tuesday!

Jim

Optimist Meeting - Tuesday, February 8

2011-02-06T08:22:00.000-08:00

Greetings!

McCall-Donnelly High School Wrestling Coach Scott Erekson will join our meeting this Tuesday to visit about this year's wrestling program. I understand we have a strong wrestling program this year with several very strong competitors. I'm looking forward to hearing from Scott, and I hope you'll plan to attend our meeting - Tuesday, February 8th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. We'll be in Santa's Sweet Shoppe (just to the left as you enter the restaurant).

See you Tuesday!

Jim

Winter Carnival Teen Dances - Can You Chaperone?

2011-02-04T08:23:00.000-08:00

Good Morning!

The Winter Carnival Teen Dances went very well last weekend, and we have two more to go. The dances provide fun and safe social activities for our young folks, as well as those visiting our community. Can you help as a chaperone tonight or tomorrow night? If so, please call Bill Anderson at 315-0977.

Thanks!!!

Jim

Optimist Club Meeting - Tuesday, February 1st

2011-02-01T08:24:00.000-08:00

Greetings!

School Resource Officer Jason Pannell is tentatively scheduled to meet with us this week to chat about his role in the schools. I hope you'll plan to attend - Tuesday, February 1st, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. We'll be in Santa's Sweet Shoppe, just to the left as you enter the restaurant.

See you Tuesday!

Jim

Pictures from Winter Carnival Parade

2011-01-31T08:27:00.000-08:00

Become a member and see more! Contact us today to visit a meeting and learn more.

Hear Ye, Hear Ye!! Winter Carnival Teen Dances!

2011-01-24T08:56:00.000-08:00

Good Evening!

Winter Carnival will begin this coming Friday, January 28th. The Optimist Club and the McCall-Donnelly Track Program are joining forces to sponsor and stage four teen dances (both Fridays and both Saturdays). Dances will run from 9:00 pm to midnight in The Commons at McCall-Donnelly High School. Most of the proceeds from the dances will go toward funding a pole vault pit for the track program.

Track Team Captains have already put together the music, which they will play from their I-Pods on a sound system. The Track Program (coaches and parents) will chaperone the dances, but we'll need several additional volunteers each night as chaperones and to lend hands.

Can we count on your help for a few hours during one (or both) of the next two weekends? It's a great cause, the kids have a wonderful time, the evenings go fast, and it's even a fun experience for chaperones. Please call Head Track Coach Bill Anderson at
315-0977 within the next couple of days to arrange a shift or two.

Thanks,

Jim

Greetings, and Happy New Year!

2011-01-02T19:08:00.000-08:00

Our weekly Optimist Club meetings will resume this Tuesday morning. This week's program has not been confirmed, but we'll have good conversation in any case. Let's make this a great start to 2011 - Tuesday, January 4th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. We'll be in Santa's Sweet Shoppe, just to the left as you enter the restaurant.

See you Tuesday!

Jim

See you Tuesday!

2010-12-19T19:08:00.000-08:00

We'll have a busy meeting this Tuesday morning as we combine a fellowship meeting with a Board Meeting. We hope to finalize our budget, chat about the upcoming Winter Carnival Teen Dances, hear several reports, and more. Hope you plan to attend - Tuesday, December 21st, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. We'll be in Santa's Sweet Shoppe.

See you Tuesday!

Jim

PS - No meeting on the following Tuesday (December 28th), as we take a Holiday Break.

Next meeting December 14

2010-12-11T19:09:00.000-08:00

Greetings!

Please join us for this Tuesday's Optimist meeting. Scoutmaster Tom Crawford of Cub Scout Pack #246 will be with us, along with District Executive Adam Binder, to talk about the Cub Scout Program. Pack #246 is very new here in McCall, and Scoutmaster Crawford has a contagious enthusiasm for the scouting program. I'm looking forward to hearing what he has to share with us. I hope you'll plan to attend - Tuesday, December 14th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. We'll be in Santa's Sweet Shoppe, just to the left as you enter the restaurant.

See you Tuesday!

Jim

A couple of important Optimist messages

2010-12-07T19:11:00.000-08:00

Greetings!

Flint McDaniel will be working in the Boise area for the next six months (and hopefully we'll get him back after that!). We appreciate all that Flint has done in supporting the club and all our Optimist activities. If he doesn't have perfect attendance at our Tuesday morning meetings, he's darned close. Flint will be sorely missed during his absence, and we wish him the very best in his new endeavors in the Treasure Valley.

And, that leads to the second message....

Flint was scheduled to be the Chairman of this year's Senior Party Committee. Since he'll be gone, we're looking for someone to step forward to take on this very important role. The Senior Party will be held on (or about) Saturday, June 4th. The Chairman (and the Committee) will also be involved in the necessary up-front work in preparation for a successful event. Fortunately, we have several members with past experience who can provide excellent guidance, and the Optimist Board will assist in planning and organizing. This is a very popular activity, and I believe the Chairman will have solid support both from Optimist members and from the community in general. Will you consider heading up this year's Senior Party? Please contact President Hank at to discuss further.

Thanks!!

Jim

Optimist meeting on November 30

2010-11-28T19:12:00.000-08:00

Greetings!

George Pool will be with us this Tuesday morning to talk about the After School Program. George was recently recognized for his outstanding volunteer service in our community, and I know you'll enjoy and appreciate his comments. He may also be accompanied by Ms. Jennifer "Jen" Enna, who is new in her leadership role with the After School Program.

I hope you'll plan to attend - Tueday, November 30th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. Look for us in Santa's Sweet Shoppe, just to the left as you enter the restaurant.

See you Tuesday!

Jim

Contribution to the Optimist Club

2010-11-23T19:14:00.000-08:00

Good Evening -

I am thrilled to announce that we received a contribution of $450.00 today from the Heartland Employee Community Fund, Idaho Power and IDACORP, Inc. Idaho Power employees have made voluntarily contributions, which were then matched by Idaho Power. They feel our Optimist activities are valuable in our community, and they hope their contribution can help us to continue with our endeavors.

Obviously this donation will help us immensely. When you see Idaho Power employees, please take a moment to thank them for their generosity.

Thanks,

Jim

Our next meeting is on Tuesday, November 16

2010-11-13T19:15:00.000-08:00

Greetings!

Have you noticed the new transit buses and the bus stops around McCall? Are you aware of our transit system and free service? Some of the recent developments with the system have been quite visible, while others are not so obvious. Local Manager Richard Kuntz will join our meeting this week to enlighten us about the Mountain Community Transit system, and his presentation promises to be interesting. Mr. Kuntz has been instrumental in the development of our local system, and he has a long experience in transportation in other Idaho communities. Treasure Valley Transit Operations Manager Jay Mentzer may join us as well, depending on schedules.

I hope you'll plan to attend - Tuesday, November 16th, 7:00 a.m. at the Pancake House. Look for us in Santa's Sweet Shoppe, just to the left as you enter the restaurant.

Thanks,

Jim

Veterans Day

2010-11-12T19:35:00.000-08:00

Greetings, and Happy Veterans Day!

Our Optimist Flag Service went very well today. McCall looked sharp, and Old Glory flew proudly in honor of our nation's Veterans. We respect, honor and give sincere thanks to those who have served selflessly to protect the freedoms we all enjoy.

Thanks to Eric Watson, Randy Basabe, Mike Kohout, Dennis Coyle, Guy Jeppe, and Jim Thackeray for putting up and taking flags down. A few photos of today's activities are attached.

Thanks,

Jim

And... A note from a member of our community:

Jim,

Just a simple little note to say Thank You to the group of guys for their dedication and hard work of displaying flags each year as a symbol of appreciation to all the men and women that serve our country. God Bless you one and all, Helen

Pictures and Optimist meeting reminder

2010-11-07T19:19:00.000-08:00

Good Afternoon!

Kimmi Onthank will join our meeting this Tuesday to visit about the Optimist Football Program. I understand that Kimmi has been a driving force in keeping the program organized, on track, and moving ahead. We're looking forward to hearing Kimmi's comments and visiting with her about the future of the program!

This week we'll also discuss the proposed increase in our annual membership dues, as mentioned in President Hank's recent message.

If you didn't attend last week's meeting, you missed a good one! Assistant Fire Chief Garrett de Jong and Captain Freddie Van Middendorp enlightened us about the McCall Fire and EMS, shared a few "war stories", explained Department procedures, offered safety tips, responded to questions, etc. Our thanks go to Assistant Chief de Jong, Captain Van Middendorp, and all the staff and volunteers of McCall Fire and EMS for their superb service to our area. (I've attached a few photos from last week's meeting).

Hope you'll plan to attend - Tuesday, November 9th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. Look for us in Santa's Sweet Shoppe, just to the left as you enter the restaurant.

Thanks,

Jim

Veteran's Day Flag Service

2010-11-06T19:24:00.000-07:00

Good Afternoon -

As we're preparing to celebrate Veterans Day this coming Thursday, Flag Program Co-Chairman Randy Basabe is looking for a few eager volunteers to put up and take down flags. Can you help for a couple hours? We especially need some folks for the Down Crew, but we could use another two folks on the Up Crew as well.

The Up Crew will meet at the Pancake House at 7:00 am on Thursday. The Down Crew will meet at our storage unit (Airport Storage Unit #54, behind the Dept of Labor Office) at 5:15 pm on Thursday. We should be able to wrap up in 1 1/2 hours, and even faster if we have more volunteers. If you're interested in the Down Crew but can't make it until a little later, that's okay. Your help will certainly be appreciated.

Please let Randy know if you can give a couple hours of your time for this important activity. Click to email Randy.

Thanks!!!

Jim

A message from President Hank...

2010-11-04T19:26:00.000-07:00

Dear Optimists:

The Board is considering an increase in our annual membership dues, and we need your input. Presently our dues are $80 per year. $75 of those dues go to Optimist International and Regional, so our McCall Club nets $5 per year from each member's dues, not nearly enough to pay for basics such as guest breakfasts, postage to send out membership dues, flag account billings, Post Office box rent and so on.

The Board discussed the possibility of increasing our annual dues $10 to a total of $90, and allowing the option of two equal payments six months apart. This would raise about $240, which would cover operational costs and probably also cover costs of events like our annual BBQ. On the other hand, we know times are tough, and the last thing we want to do is price anyone out of our club.

We, the Board, need your input. Please give this issue some thought, and share those thoughts with us either via email response or at our regular breakfast meeting next Tuesday.

We are anxious to get our budget set for the year, and the Board will meet again on the 15th to do just that.

Thanks in advance for your Optimistic suggestions to the Board!

President Hank

November 2nd - Meeting's a go!

2010-10-31T19:30:00.000-07:00

Good Morning!

This week's program is not yet confirmed, but our meeting is a definite "go". Hope you can be there - Tuesday, November 2nd, Pancake House, 7:00 am.

See you Tuesday!

Jim

Reminder and follow-up - Next Meeting, October 26

2010-10-24T19:27:00.000-07:00

Good Morning!

McCall City Recreation Director Dennis Coyle will join our meeting this week to chat about the proposed Riverfront Park, as well as other updates from the Rec Department. Dennis has spoken to us before, and he's always interesting and a wealth of information. I hope you'll plan to attend - Tuesday, October 26th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. We'll be in Santa's Sweet Shoppe, just to the left as you enter the restaurant.

On a follow-up note, two weeks ago we had a great presentation by Kenny Pyle regarding the Judo Program. We were also honored at that same meeting to have a visit from Eddie and Carol Murphy. Both are active Optimists, and Eddie made a brief presentation to us about the Optimist Foundation. Eddie is truly part of American history, although he made little mention of it. He served aboard the USS Pueblo when it was attacked and seized by North Korea in 1968. If you're interested in learning more about the Pueblo incident and that part of Eddie's life, or in purchasing his book Second In Command, go to www.puebloexec.com.

Again, I hope you'll attend this week's meeting.

Thanks,

Jim

McCall Optimist Club Officer Installation

2010-10-21T22:23:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful evening at Jug Mountain Ranch in McCall, Idaho and the guests at the annual installation banquet enjoyed the mountain setting and beautiful sunset.

The Honorable Henry Boomer, President presided over the festivities. Susan Thompson, Lt. Governor Zone 8 and Linda Jackson, Immediate Past Governor joined the club for the evening.

John Mansisidor was named Optimist of the Year.

Jim Thackeray received the first ever special President's Award.

What a great evening! Everyone enjoyed the event.

Please click here for more pictures.

Meeting reminder

2010-10-10T20:39:00.000-07:00

Good Evening!

Kenny and/or Lannea Pyle are tentatively scheduled to join us Tuesday morning to chat about the Judo Club. The Pyles have headed up Judo in the area for as long as I can remember, and they've had some extremely impressive results.

Hope you'll plan to join us - Tuesday, October 12th, 7:00 am at the Pancake House. We'll be in Santa's Sweet Shoppe, just to the left as you enter the restaurant.

See you then!

Jim

Planning the installation banquet

2010-09-28T22:38:00.000-07:00

Good Morning!

Our annual Optimist Installation Banquet is scheduled for Tuesday, October 19th. We're still working out some of the final details. We anticipate that social hour will begin at 6:00 pm, and dinner will begin around 7:00 pm.

As we work out the final details, we need to have an idea as to how many we can expect. Please let me know as soon as possible if you will be attending and how many might be in your party. (Of course, we welcome spouses, significant others, friends, kids, guests, etc)

Thanks!

Jim

Summer Barbecue for McCall Optimists

2010-07-17T14:47:00.001-07:00

Good morning!
Plans are being formulated for an Optimist Barbecue on Sunday, August 15th, and we're hoping for a great turnout of Optimists, families, and friends

Preliminary Info:
Kermit Peterson has invited us to his place (southwest of Donnelly) for this grand event. We'll begin at 1:00 with a work party to refurbish the flag poles. Barbecuing and activities will begin around 3:00. The Club will provide hotdogs and hamburgers; attendees will bring their own drinks and side dishes to share. Paul Gullickson is planning several activities for our enjoyment.

Details will be provided in the next few weeks. Please mark your calendar for August 15th, and plan to come. We're gonna have fun!!!

Have a great weekend!

from Jim Thackeray, Secretary

Happy 4th of July

2010-07-03T14:51:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

The "Up Crew" did a splendid job this morning, and our flags are flying proudly around town once again. Many thanks to John Mansisidor, Mike Kohout, and Randy Basabe for their early-morning efforts! And thanks again to John and Randy for their work in establishing new flag accounts and putting up more brackets. John tells me we now have 97 active accounts. And, there's potential for more....

The "Down Crew" will meet at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, July 5th at Airport Storage unit #54 (behind the Department of Labor office). Eric Watson and Hank Boomer have committed to take down, and we still need a few more hands. Please call John Mansisidor at 315-1389 as soon as possible to let him know you can help.

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Mike Kohout shared the following tidbits of wisdom this morning as we sipped some coffee before putting up the flags. Very appropriate! Thanks Mike!!

BE OPTIMISTIC

Martin Seligman and his colleagues at the University of Pennsylvania found that the main difference between optimists and pessimists is how they explain setbacks to themselves. When something bad happens, optimists think of it as temporary, limited in its effect, and not entirely their fault. Pessimists do the opposite. They consider the setback to be permanent, far-reaching, and entirely their fault. There are varying degrees of this, and most people fall somewhere between the two extremes.

Using these definitions, researchers find that optimism contributes to good health and pessimism contributes to illness.

In several large-scale, long-term, carefully controlled experiments, Seligman discovered that optimists are more successful than pessimists - optimistic politicians win more elections, optimistic students get better grades, optimist athletes win more contest, and optimistic salespeople make more money.

Why? Because optimism and pessimism both tend to be self-fulfilling prophecies. If you think a setback is permanent, why would you try to change it? Pessimistic explanations tend to make you feel defeated, making you less likely to take constructive action. Optimistic explanations, on the other hand, make you more likely to act. If you think the setback is only temporary, you're apt to try to do something about it, and because you take action, you make it temporary. It becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.

The good news is that a pessimist can learn to be an optimist. Pessimists can learn to see the temporary aspects of setbacks. They can be more specific about the effects of it. They can learn to share the blame and take credit for the good they do. All it takes is practice. Optimism is simply a way of thinking about good and bad; it's a cognitive skill anyone can learn. (From First Draft)

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Man's real life is happy, chiefly because he is ever expecting that it soon will be so. (Edgar Allen Poe)

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Hope you have a very safe and happy Independence Day Weekend!!

Thanks,

Jim

Flag Duty for the 4th of July

2010-06-28T20:47:00.001-07:00

Looks like we may FINALLY be into summer! What a weekend! And, next weekend should be a beauty, as well.

John Mansisidor and Randy Basabe have been doing a bang-up job with our Flag Program. They've been out and about making contacts, and they've set up a number of new accounts. Of course, this means more revenue to support our youth programs, a great display of community patriotism, and a bright and colorful holiday dress-up for our town. They've also obtained new flags to meet the demand and to replace some of the older flags that are wearing out. Thanks for your excellent work, guys!!

We need to line folks up for flag service for the Independence Day weekend. We should have Old Glory flying proudly and prominently this holiday!

Mike Kohout, Randy Basabe and myself have committed for the Up Crew on Saturday, July 3rd. We need at least one more person (and it would be great to have a back-up or two available). We'll depart from the Pancake House to post the flags at 7:00 a.m. (Come a little earlier if you want coffee and/or breakfast).

Eric Watson is the sole volunteer so far for the Down Crew on Monday. We need at least three more folks to take down (and a back-up or two would be welcome!). The Down Crew will meet at Airport Storage unit #54 behind the Department of Labor office at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, July 5th.

Can you help? Plan on about two hours, whether you're putting up or taking down. It may go a little faster. Please call John Mansisidor at 315-1389 to volunteer.

Have a safe and wonderful 4th of July!